Your Meet the Builders Tour Schedule
For next week's Meet the Builders Tour in Old Kensington, we are touring 2 new construction properties, but there's much more in store for our guests this time around. We are really digging into the neighborhood of Old Kensington, because we want to get it out there: Old Kensington is stimulating, cultivated, and ripe for your perusal.
What is Old Kensington? Why should I care?
We'd love to answer that for you on September 9th. Consider it a key part of our tour schedule:
5:30 - Chillax with Snacks & Cocktails - Tour Begins at 1355-59 Mascher St
6:00 - Meet Special Guest and RE Developer David Gleeson (Owner of the Crane Arts Building) Q&A
6:30 - Get to the Point at the Flats at Girard Pointe with Developer Jeff Tubbs
6:50 - Another Sip and Nibble sounds really good right now. Complimentary beverages/snacks at Girard Pointe.
7:10 - Crane Arts Building Tour with the other owner, Nicholas Kripal
We'll be printing out copies of our map for all that attend, just in case you want to roam on your own after the tour.
So get on out here! Here's how:
There's plenty of street parking in Old Kensington. Are you driving?
From I-95: Take the Girard Ave exit (exit 23). Proceed West on Girard. Turn right at American St. Take the 2nd right onto Thompson St. Turn left at Howard St and take the 1st left onto Master St. Then take another 1st left onto Mascher St.
By Subway:
Take the Market-Frankford line to the Girard Avenue exit. Cross Front St and head west. Turn right on Mascher St and head 2 blocks north.
View Meet the Builders Tour in Old Kensington in a larger map
Tee’d Off in Old Kensington: Derisory Designs
We were so thrilled when Dave Lauder dropped off the large brown cardboard box. He watched us as we excitedly opened it. We popped the box open and saw 50 beautiful brand new, bright white, cotton t-shirts with our logo printed artfully on the front of each and every one of them. Derisory Designs did a stellar job! Chris and I had to laugh at how incredibly self promotional this t-shirt idea was, but I promise, we are not megalomaniacs like that song by Incubus (which is a pretty cool song, by the way). We are just shamelessly trying to build our brand. And shameless branding is where Derisory Designs shines!
As a small local business in Old Kensington, Derisory Designs is on several social media portals. That is how I easily found them when I was searching for local businesses. Patronizing quality local businesses is something we are passionate about. It is very rewarding and important to us on a personal level to help other small hardworking business owners, particularly in this challenging economy. Derisory Designs is not only local but extremely hands on, receptive to small orders, they respond quickly and honor their delivery dates. We highly recommend them for quality printing and top notch service.
Derisory Designs
1627 N 2nd St
267-258-8084
New Construction in Old Kensington: Meet the Builders Tour is Back!
The Meet the Builders Tour is back for September. The timing was right for two projects in Old Kensington that have been on our radar, and so, north of Girard we go!
Meet the Builders Walking Tour: Old Kensington
Thursday, September 9th 5:30-7:30 pm
1355 Mascher St
Come join us on a Fun Walking Tour of 2 Old Kensington New Construction Projects where you can actually meet the builder !
Meet builders, ask questions, get insider tips and rub elbows with the pros. Then stick around to enjoy 2nd Thursday in Old Kensington, a night of new art exhibits at nearby galleries, with a tour of Crane Arts Event Space.
Who should attend?
- Rehabbers and Investors looking for tips
- Those who are interested in learning about Old Kensington
- Buyers looking for more information
To RSVP to this event, text your email to (215) 650-3454.
Your information will remain private and we do not spam.
Featuring 2 of the Latest New Construction Ventures in Old Kensington
The Flats at Girard Pointe - 1221-33 N 3rd St
Developer: JD International
Jeff Tubbs from JD International will be walking us through the Flats at Girard Pointe, a series of single family homes that combine eco-friendly design and arts-loving location into an affordable and customizable package.
Project details here.
1355-59 Mascher St
Speaker: David Gleeson
This dynamic new construction is artfully designed and is unlike any other new construction home in the area. Three units are available. For more information on 1355-59 Mascher St, view project details here.
We'll be unlocking the mysteries of Old Kensington for those that are curious about this inspiring and sometimes hard-to-define neighborhood. One of the owners of Crane Arts, David Gleeson, will be our speaker at the new Mascher Street properties. Gleeson is a niche investor rooted in the success of the neighborhood and not only does he invest here, he lives here. He is currently in the process of rehabbing a church in Old Kensington, which will become his new home.
Check out our last Meet the Builders Tour:
If you Build it, They Will Come: Meet the Builders Tour Recap
Beating the Odds at the Flats at Girard Pointe
The odds are at
1221-1233 North 3rd Street...
You'll find an urban oasis that's hard to beat.
Odds that meld 3 desires of today's urbanite: Eco-minded construction, an eclectic atmosphere to live in, a price that's not flat-out intimidating. The Flats at Girard Pointe at 1221-33 North Second 3rd St. in Old Kensington are your chance to embrace the odd - Getting what you want for a price that's right in a creative and rapidly-growing neighborhood. The highlights?
- Just North of Girard and Northern Liberties, this new construction mod-style living experience sets you one block North of Liberties Walk and one block South of Crane Arts Project Space.
- The Energy Efficient Features include Energy Star Appliances, light fixtures, and windows that will make the Flats 20-30% more efficient than standard homes. Built-in insulation with Superior Walls, WaterSense toilets and faucets, Tankless Water Heaters, and a Solar-Ready home to reduce installation costs of solar heating should you choose it in the future. Select from eco-friendly solutions for Countertops/Backsplashes, Zero Voc Paint, and Flooring types: Cork, Bamboo, or Carpet FLOR.
- "Urban Topiary" Living Sculpture composed of over 100 digitally fabricated aluminum tubes with Boston Ivy designed to "bring a playful and energetic feeling to the neighborhood while weaving together public and private space."
- 10 Year Tax Abatement
- 1,500 + SF of Living Space
- Off Street Parking Available
- 1 -2 Bedrooms, 9 ft Ceilings
- Balconies and Urban Garden Sanctuaries
- Custom Landscaping and Sculptural Fencing by PrePost
$375,00
It appears that the odds are in your favor. Join us for a special tour of the Flats at Girard Pointe on our next Meet the Builders Tour in September. Details coming soon!
Pre-Viewing on Sunday, September 5…1355-59 Mascher St
You are invited to the opening of the Mascher St project. This dynamic new construction is artfully designed and is unlike any other new construction home in the area. The modern aesthetics inside and out will certainly exceed your expectations. Some of the interior features include natural tone granite kitchens paired with flat panel chocolate cabinets and flooring. The soaring living room ceilings and open wall staircases enhance the visual flow from room to room.
There are only 3 addresses available each with 3 bedrooms 2.5 baths, finished basements, garage parking, private roof decks with panoramic city views, a 10 year tax abatement, and many more details to enjoy.
$329,900
Join us on Sunday, September 5 from 1 - 3 pm for a sneak preview. Be the first to know. For more info, contact The Somers. The first 5 people get a free t-shirt.
What’s Life in Old Kensington Like? A Client Writes in.
A few years ago we helped client Taylor Picone buy a gorgeous Factory Loft at the Steel Factory in Old Kensington. He wrote in to thank us and to let us know that life in Old Kensington has been very exciting and extra convenient to all of his favorite spots. Thanks, Taylor!
Dear Somers:
Thanks for taking an interest in hearing from the local folks about the neighborhoods in the area. So far my past two years in Old Kensington living in the Steel Factory Lofts has been a great time. The area has really begun to flourish and there is never any shortage of great places to eat, drink, socialize, and take part in the ever exciting events of Northern Liberties and Fishtown. The Piazza at Schmidts is host to a variety of restaurants and bars from the classy Apollinare, to the great food at Darling's Diner 24 hours a day, and there is always a great seat at PYT to watch the Phillies game on the Jumbotron. Just across the street is Liberties Walk, host to great shopping and one of the best coffee spots in the city, One Shot Coffee, which is a great place to stop before or after your professional quality hair cut at DNA Salon just next door.
Not to be forgotten are all the great local Fishtown bars that each offer their very own unique personalities and plethora of drinks. Visitors to Philadelphia should never pass up the opportunity to see really Philly culture at The El Bar on front street where they can grab a quick Philly Special (Beer and a shot of whiskey for $3) while cheering the in season Philly sports team to victory. Looking for local live music? Try a night at Johnny Brenda's on Frankford and Girard, always a host to great local artists and some pretty famous ones, too!
A great location for Temple students with plenty of public transportation assets within walking distance that within minutes can get you to downtown Philadelphia with access to museums, South Street, Boat House Row, and plenty of other sites.
Overall, living in the Old Kensington/Northern Liberties area comes with all the perks and culture of a tight nit local Philly community while providing you great access to popular tourist areas. A combination of great food, drinks, scenery and people. The budding community of Old Kensington/Northern Liberties is a great place for any age and any profession.
Respectfully,
Taylor E. Picone
1st Lieutenant, FA
Here are two awesome opportunities right now in the Old Kensington neighborhood:
Attention Developers! Rare Opportunity to Build 17 Homes in Northern Liberties
Explore more about Life in Old Kensington. Ready to search for Old Kensington properties?
Battle the Heat with the 90degreez Fashion World Tour
This event is right in tune with our current state of weather. The 90degreez Fashion World Tour brings an evening of fashion, art, music, and networking to Old Kensington to benefit the youth of the Kensington South neighborhood and the Kensington South NAC, a nonprofit organization that helps to improve the neighborhood.
On the runway, look for couture inspired from Brazil, Uganda, and other countries, with designers Genuine Gentlemen, Atal Stella Uganda, Eye Innovations eyewear, and others. Hip hop gospel artist TWyse will perform. The event will also tap its global potential by offering a live streaming video broadcast from 90degreez.com.
90degreez Fashion World Tour
July 31, 6pm
Crane Building, 1400 N. American Street
For questions call Marilyn or Cynthia at 215-427-3463. You can also call 90degreez at 215-200-0652 or visit www.90degreez.com
Give the People What They Want: Strong Rental Demand in Northern Liberties, Old Kensington, and Fishtown
"Give the people what they want" is a phrase quoted by the Kinks back in the day, but these are words that ring true for the rental market in Philadelphia. At least for the rental market for homes, apartments, and condos located in the zip codes 19123, 19122, and 19125.
We've been studying the demands of renters in our Philadelphia Real Estate Market and the message that these consumers are conveying to us is clear as day. Renters looking to live in the Northern Liberties, Fishtown, and Old Kensington neighborhoods are looking for the same things buyers are looking for and they are not taking NO for an answer.
Here is the winning recipe for an A+ rental property in the districts we are discussing.
- High functioning Kitchen and Baths with a fully outfitted appliance package because these renters work hard, play hard, like to cook, entertain, and they demand a touch of luxury.
- 2-4 bedroom accommodations because Renters have roommates to share living space and cut living expenses.
- More than 1 bath is a huge plus and renters are willing to pay more for that feature. Both female and male renters require more out of their bathrooms such as storage for toiletries and lots of space if they need to share the bath with a roommate in a multiple gender household.
- Near public transportation is a big benefit. Therefore, if you are an investor, consider buying property close to the El stops, bus stops that run into Center City or to the Universities. Public transportation within a few blocks of your subject property is important.
-A clean, secure, no maintenance yard is a real plus for those with pets and for trash storage.
Renters want all of this for from $900 to under $2,000 per month depending on location and space.
If you are an investor or home owner thinking about renting your property in Northern Liberties, Fishtown or Old Kensington, it is important to Plan Ahead.If you can provide even a few of the things listed above, you will have less vacancies, increase the quality of tenant, get more money from your rental, and your property will rent faster.
The days of slapping paint on the wall and hanging a sign in your window are over. If you need assistance renting your property please contact us. We list rental properties.
Plan Your Trip to Italy in Northern Liberties
The servers at Modo Mio BYO will tell you how much the Northern Liberties neighborhood has changed.
"None of this was here a few years ago", gestures the server in response to a couple of out-of-towners who have inquired about the in-progress shopping center, The Shops at Schmidts, being built on Girard Avenue.
And years ago, we wouldn't have imagined we'd be sitting at an outdoor table on the corner of Girard and Hancock Street, eating some of the best Italian cuisine in the city.
Before we go any further with the intensity and excellence of the meal, I should warn you that Modo Mio is currently closed until July 12, as chef Peter McAndrews has taken the staff on a trip to....Italy.
The cash-only BYO is consistently packed with regulars, but the trick is to go snag an outdoor table which are available on a first-come basis. That's how we lucked out, after failing to secure a reservation countless times. So this was our first experience at Modo Mio. The sea salt crusted bread was the start of things, with a whipped ricotta butter. Juicy fresh figs arrived balancing on mozzarella and bruschetta. The crispy artichokes were a thing of love, with roasted tomatoes and capers.
Next, we tried the Mezza Rigatoni for our pasta course, with green olives, eggplant, fresh mozzarella, tomato, and basil in a small, reasonable portion. We were ready for more eggplant with the Tomato Braised Stuffed Eggplant and then finished with a Tiramisu for dessert. Everything was balanced and prepared expertly with delicate flavors and fine ingredients. It may have been a challenge to get a reservation at Modo Mio, but the real challenge is taking it all in.
It's no trip to Italy, but it's the next best thing.
Modo Mio
161 West Girard Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19123
215-203-8707
An Art Sale That You Can’t Afford to Miss in Old Kensington
Art. Most of us can't afford to simply walk into any gallery we please and declare that we want that painting. Right there. We'll take it. No, let's face it: art isn't always that affordable and it's also the kind of thing that you really have to think about before purchasing because it is such a big deal and commitment.
Which brings us to Inliquid's Art For the Cash Poor 11, a budget-friendly art shopping experience that we are glad is still going strong. Items are priced at $199 or less, so you can fall in love and walk away with something, or you can make a spontaneous art decision that won't leave you broke even if it doesn't work out. It's all happening at the Crane Arts Building in Old Kensington.
Some of your favorite Philly artists will be selling their work and this is a prime chance to snag something cool and start a collection. Artists and artisans for sale include Jen McCleary, Margaux and Walter Kent, Rebecca Jacoby, Sarah Davey, and many more.
Ahem. Did we mention that Chalk and the Beige Americans will be playing, along with McRad and the Keystone Mountain Boys? Sold.
Ahem again. Food is art, too, except it's a lot cheaper. Buttercream Cupcake Truck, Las Cazuelas, Quince Fine Foods, Mango Moon, North Port Fishington Cookie Factory, and One Village Coffee will all be selling finely crafted food and drink.
The Crane Arts Building
1400 N American Street
Saturday, June 12 and Sunday, June 13, 1 - 6 pm
Explore more about Life in Old Kensington. Ready to search for Old Kensington properties?
[photo credit: Art For the Cash Poor 11]