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The Somers Team Blog
15Jul/100

2 BR Home for Sale in Port Richmond, Philadelphia – Great Home w/ Open Living Area Ideal for Handy Homeowner

2 Bedroom Home for Sale in Port Richmond, Philadelphia

Call The Somers 215-400-2620, RE/MAX Access, Northern Liberties, Philadelphia

2509 E Monmouth Street


2509 E Monmouth StreetThis 2 BR Home for Sale in Port Richmond is a great value for a handy homeowner or someone looking for a home that needs cosmetic updates.

Enter in through a vestibule that leads to a wide open living room and dining room. Original hardwood floors throughout (under the rugs), a faux fireplace, and high ceilings in the living area. There is a shed kitchen that leads to a small cemented back yard. The basement is very clean and large with washer and dryer hookups.

The 2nd floor has 2 bedrooms, both very spacious with plenty of room for furniture. There is a conveniently located powder room on the main floor and the full bath is on the 2nd floor.

Photo Gallery

Located in walking distance to The Hinge Cafe and Tacconelli's Pizza as well as being conveniently located close to shopping and transportation. We welcome all showings to this 2 bedroom home for sale in Port Richmond.

Discover more about Life in Port Richmond

The Somers Team of Philadelphia

TheSomersTeam.com

215-400-2620

Remax Access, Northern Liberties

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2Jul/100

Decks & Patios: Creating an Urban Oasis in Philly

Turning your deck, yard, patio, or garden into an outdoor oasis might seem like a lot of effort. But we've found that a quick trip to your local garden store to find some inspiration and a little bit of dirty work are all it takes to turn around your seemingly savage garden or neglected deck.

If you're selling, it makes all the difference in the world to have a well manicured exterior even if it is a small deck. Outdoor spaces increase the property value, so sellers , play it up!

And to new home buyers: A lot of first time buyers have just purchased a home due to the $8,000 Obama Tax Credit Incentive that ended June 30th, 2010. Now you have an entire new home to decorate. Don't forget about the outside.

For existing homeowners and renters: With  the summer upon us and guests arriving, people want to show off their apartment, condo, or row home... . A beautifully appointed exterior space to enjoy the outdoors can create a warm and memorable experience for all.

Our deck used to look like this. We had amazing views of Northern Liberties, but no place to really enjoy them together.

I chose to visit City Planter, Lowes, and Pier 1 Imports. All local stores.

At Lowes I bought all of the plants on the clearance rack for $30 !

Pier 1 had a sale on the chairs and the pillows were 30% off !

We re-purposed a set in our storage unit that belonged to my late great aunt Anna. The table and chairs were freshened up by Carter Studios. Our deck was looking ready for summer. All it needed was some plants.

So our Outdoor Oasis 2.0 was well on its way. That's when we decided to add some finishing touches.  The table and chairs is a nice, whimsical setting for morning coffee.  But we wanted to add a more comfortable option for long-term lounging outside.  The deck chairs with cushions (found at Pier 1) added a bit of contrast and color in addition to some softness. The white flowers that we chose for the planters are now in bloom and coordinate nicely with the table/chairs combo.

The decking material was replaced with a weatherproof material done by our preferred vendor, VAR Construction.

Trust the experts at these shops to answer your questions. We've rounded up our favorite sources for planters and tools below.

Port Richmond

The Port Richmond Lowe's has consistently great deals on landscaping needs like mulch and garden tools, for the neighborhood that has many porch front homes, lawn spaces, and back yards.  It's where the community turns for their outside solutions. And don't forget to check out the clearance rack, like I did.

Lowe's
3800 Aramingo Avenue

Northern Liberties

We cannot get enough of  City Planter, the shop you should turn to when you really need some ideas that will set you apart from your neighbors and give you a truly unique outdoor haven.

City Planter
814 N. 4th St.

South Philadelphia

In South Philly, Pier 1 has lots of outdoor furniture to choose from, whether you are looking for wicker or papasan chairs, or even a swinging chair.  Pillows, cushions, tables, and umbrellas will help you build your new getaway, and it's all reasonably priced, too. One of the  managers at Pier 1, who lives in Fishtown, was super helpful and professional on a recent deck-shopping trip.

Pier 1
2310 S. Columbus Blvd.

Finally, our urban oasis comes together in its third transformation!

We love what we've done in a short time with our roof deck and now we have the whole summer to enjoy it.


Related:

A Home is Only As Good As the Contractor Who Built It

Creating an Urban Oasis? Think Local. Visit City Planter!

A Visit to Carter Studios in Port Richmond

Outdoor Furniture for the Ultimate Urban Retreat

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2Jul/100

2 Bedroom Home For Sale in Port Richmond, Philadelphia – Great Starter Home/Investment Property with Lots of Updates

2 Bedroom Home for Sale in Port Richmond, Philadelphia

Call The Somers 215-400-2620, RE/MAX Access, Northern Liberties, Philadelphia

2415 E Ann Street

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2415 E Ann Street


Priced to SELL for this two bedroom, one bathroom home located in the Port Richmond neighborhood of Philadelphia. Great starter home or investment property!

The block is very private which makes parking a breeze. Property has newer carpet throughout. Living room and dining room on the first floor. Kitchen was remodeled 3 years ago with new cabinets and countertops. Walk out to large patio and backyard for summer bbq.

Upstairs has 2 spacious bedrooms with updated full bath. Plenty of closet space. Basement is full and great for storage. Newer heater and hot water heater. Electric and plumbing have been updated.

Property does need some minor cosmetic work which is reflected in the price. Owner is a licensed PA broker.

Discover more about Port Richmond Life

The Somers Team of Philadelphia

TheSomersTeam.com

215-400-2620

Remax Access, Northern Liberties

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21Jun/100

Commercial Property for Sale in Port Richmond , Philadelphia – Storefront Corner Property Great for Any Type of Business w/ 1BR Apt

Commercial Property for Sale in Port Richmond, Philadelphia

Call The Somers 215-400-2620, RE/MAX Access, Northern Liberties, Philadelphia

Investor Special

2861 Amber Street


2861 Amber Street

This commercial storefront corner property for sale in Port Richmond is great for any type of business.

First floor needs repairs. Second floor has a 1 bedroom apartment with some new walls, flooring and fixtures.

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This is a handyman special and the property is being sold in as is condition.

Great investment & TLC needed. Property alarmed. Call to Show this Commercial Property for Sale in Port Richmond.

Discover more about the Port Richmond Neighborhood

The Somers Team of Philadelphia

TheSomersTeam.com

215-400-2620

Remax Access, Northern Liberties

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If interested in buying or selling properties in Philadelphia, contact Chris and Stephanie Somers at thesomersteam@yahoo.com or 215-400-2612.  For investment properties, check out our new investor site at Philly Investor Hub!  If interested in checking out our new office in Northern Liberties, let us know!

The Somers  Team - Philadelphia Real Estate

Search the MLS Properties Here in Philadelphia

Areas of specialty include: Northern Liberties, Old City, Center City, Fishtown, Graduate Hospital, Art Museum, Queen Village, Pennsport, Old Kensington, Port Richmond, Bridesburg, Society Hill, Loft District, Spring Garden and more!

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10Jun/100

Flea Market Frenzy in Fishtown and Port Richmond

Campbell SquareIf you find yourself in Fishtown or Port Richmond this weekend, there are three flea markets that caught our eye. There is nothing quite like the tradition of flea market weekends in Fishtown and Port Richmond that we have witnessed as a weekend ritual for many residents.

The first is at Palmer Park on Saturday, June 12 from 8 - 3pm. Proceeds will benefit the park, which is located at Palmer Street and Frankford Avenue in Fishtown. From there, you could amble on over to the sidewalk sale at Crease Street Community Garden, from 9 - 2pm.  Over ten families will sell at this combined yard sale and donate their proceeds to the garden.  It will be on the 1200 block of Crease Street and items for sale include baby clothing, art supplies, collectibles, household items, toys, and kitchen wares.

On Sunday, wake up early for the Campbell Square Flea Market. Convince your spouse that if they go with you, you'll treat them to brunch at Mercer Cafe or the Hinge.  They'll probably jump right out of bed at that suggestion. From 8 - 2pm at Campbell Square at Belgrade and Allegheny in Port Richmond, you can try to score some antiques or vintage heels and then survey your treasures over coffee and french toast. Good luck!

Related:

Cure for a Workaholic: The Mercer Street Cafe in Port Richmond!

[photo credit: Friends of Campbell Square]

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10Jun/100

A Visit to Carter Studios in Port Richmond

Carter Studios

We're amazed by artisan power couples, so after meeting Mike and Jess Carter of Carter Studios, we knew we wanted to work with them on our interior design project with Voila Design. (Just wait until you see the makeover they've given us).

Mike gave us a quick tour of the Carter Studios workspace in Port Richmond near Tacony. The couple works, lives, and plays in the colossal second floor space in the Globe Dye Works building with their dog Old Bill. They make furniture and refinish objects, many of which can be spotted all around their home - an eclectic mashup of both of their talents and styles.

Deck Furniture

Mike set to work on the patio table and chairs that we dropped off for him, which were taken from a blah black to a fresh off-white. He coated the bedroom tables with white paint, hiding the limey green that just wasn't working with our scheme. He also painted a curio cabinet for the bathroom, a blue shade that gave new life to the furniture.

If you need benches, handrails, fixtures, or other small details to be imagined or re-imagined for your home or office, contact the Carters to see what they can do for you. We love the results - with a local artist, you can be more involved in the design process and have something exceptional and unique that you and guests will remark on that isn't a cookie-cutter, factory-made solution. You would be surprised at just how many artists there are in neighborhoods like Kensington and Port Richmond that are hard at work crafting stunning installations and special pieces for Philadelphia homes.

Related:

Lanterns, Tables, and Chairs from Kensington’s Woodworking Genius

[photo credit: Carter Studios]

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26May/100

Fly that Old Glory in Port Richmond

Campbell SquareWhat are your Memorial Day plans on May 31? If you're in Port Richmond, stop by the Port Richmond Memorial Day Parade. It begins at Thompson Street and Allegheny Avenue at 10 am and will wrap around Port Richmond before ending back at Campbell Square Park for a flag raising ceremony and wreath laying dedication. So before you hit those barbecues or enjoy your day off, take a moment to honor your veterans.

Prior to the parade, all are invited to honor local veteran James Jaskel, who passed away in November 2009, at his grave in St. Peter's Ceremony at Almond and Venango Streets. The 8:45 am ceremony will give a guard and rifle salute to the US Airforce veteran, who lived on Venango Street.

Grand marshall US Army Sgt. Timothy J. Palka, born and raised on Mercer Street, will appear in the parade. The organizers encourage residents to fly their flags and decorate their homes in red, white and blue.

After the parade, enjoy barbershop chorus the Sounds of Liberty in Campbell Square. A new American flag will be dedicated to the Square. Hot dogs, pretzels. water ice, and cold drinks will be for sale. A Veteran's Mass will be held on Sunday, May 30 at 11 am at St. George R.C. Church at Salmon and Venango Streets. All are welcome to attend.

Explore more about Life in Port Richmond. Ready to search for Port Richmond properties?

Related:

Port Richmond Works! A Neighborhood that deserves a 2nd Look.

What’s up with…Port Richmond

[photo credit: Friends of Campbell Square]

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5May/100

Car Free Fridays in Fishtown

Car Free FridaysNeed a reason to ditch those wheels for a day? Every Friday in May, trade in your car for an alternative method of travel as part of Sustainable 19125's Car Free Fridays.  Not only will you save gas and reduce your carbon footprint, you can burn calories for....Happy Hour at your favorite neighborhood bars in Fishtown and Port Richmond. Don't you feel better already? See you at Murph's!

Explore more about Life in Fishtown. Ready to search for Fishtown properties?

Related:

Murph’s Bar Rocks With Deliciousness in Fishtown !

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22Apr/100

Meet Port Richmond’s Pierogi Lady: Nicole Yates of Polish Goodness

Polish Goodness pierogiesPort Richmond's Nicole Yates wasn't always a pierogi-making machine...but aren't we glad she is now? You can find dumplings from "the Pierogi Lady" at Green Rock Tavern in Port Richmond, the Bridesburg Pub in Bridesburg, and at www.polishgoodness.com. She also sells babka to Ida Mae's Bruncherie in Fishtown, for their babka french toast, which is a neighborhood favorite.  We caught up with Yates to find out how she left the IT business and is carrying on a family tradition that's been pleasing the Port Richmond community ever since.

Who taught you to make pierogi? How long have you been doing it?

My Babci used to make pierogies and my mom made them for the holidays. I was the boiler for her, meaning, I would take her tray of freshly made pierogies, pop them in the boiling water, carefully stir them so they wouldn't stick, and then lay them out to dry. I have been making pierogies for about a year. I used to work in IT, and after getting screwed by the millionth company, I was trying to figure out what else I could do because I was so tired of all of that. My mom made pierogies and they were awesome, so I thought we could do it together. However, my mom told me that it was too much work for her to do on a regular basis. I basically browbeat her into teaching me how to make them, and now, 2100 dozen later, here I am.

"You know, if you would have told me last year I would be doing this, I would have thought you were nuts. But I really do love it, even after 14 hour days and 89 dozen Easter orders. I have never been a cubicle person and I think that doing the piergoies has saved me and I am bringing the pierogies out to the world. I might not have saved them but they just might have saved me."

What is your favorite kind of pierogi?

I have 2 favorite pierogies. The first is the traditional cheese ones. They are made with farmer cheese (comparable to ricotta), butter, onion and green onion. I love them and can eat the filling by itself. I don't usually eat pierogies anymore because I see so many of them, but I do occasionally for quality control.  My other favorite pierogi is the buffalo chicken one I make. It tastes just like a chicken wing and knocks me out every time. I have to give props to Jamie Mahon, over at the Green Rock Tavern in Fishtown for his help with those. I also really love the goblacki over at Syrenka's on Richmond Street. My Babci and my Cioci Marion make fantastic goblacki so it is hard for me to eat them anywhere else, but I gotta tell ya, they are pretty awesome. I recommend it highly.

Did you grow up in Port Richmond?

I grew up in Frankford until I was 10 and my parents split. After that we lived in Port Richmond (my mom and grandparents all grew up there) and I still live there today. Port Richmond is great, full of people who take care of their houses, kids, and neighborhood.

"It is like a pocket of great in the city."

I also spend alot of time at the Green Rock Tavern on the border of Fishtown and Richmond and I find that more and more people are getting a real kick out of organizing fun stuff for people to do, cleaning up the area and taking pride in where they live. You really can't beat that.

What is the best beverage to pair with pierogi?

I think beer works well with pierogies. We did a Pierogie Week at the Green Rock, and 500 dozen later, everyone seemed to agree. We paired the pierogies with Philadelphia Brewing Co. beers and people loved it!

Explore more about Life in Port Richmond. Ready to search for Port Richmond properties?

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8Apr/100

Recycling Pays in Cupcakes, Local Produce, and a Greener Port Richmond

Port RichmondIn January, we mentioned RecycleBank's roll-out in Northern Liberties. Now, we're happy to announce that the program, which rewards households for recycling by tracking an ID sticker on bins, is in Port Richmond and North Philadelphia. With so many businesses participating in the program, there are many rewards to choose from, and we're proud to see that several of these are local and independent businesses.  Even Fishtown's Whipped Bakeshop has signed on, offering discounts off their sweets with redeemed RecycleBank points. Greensgrow Farm is also on the list, as well as ShopRite and other businesses with locations in and near Port Richmond. For more information and to sign up, visit https://www.recyclebank.com/.

Explore more about Life in Port Richmond. Ready to search for Port Richmond properties?

Related:

Recap of Last Night's NLNA Meeting

The Sweetest Block in Fishtown: Whipped Bakeshop

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