John's York PA Real Estate Blog

Everyone Likes A Sale, RIGHT??

John Hersey, e-PRO Realtor (Prudential Bob Yost Homesale Services) — Fri, 13 Aug 2010 10:22:24 -0700

Can you believe that many homes are selling for 25 to 30 percent less than they were just a few short years ago?

Do you realize that interest rates are historically low?

Put these two together and you have an awesome sale!! We are talking savings of thousands of dollars!!

If this was a Kohl's ad, you people would be all over it! Get out there and do your research, get pre approved for a mortgage, go over your numbers to be REALISTIC with what YOU can afford and be ready, just incase that perfect home comes on the market that you would NEVER want to miss out on.

It probably seems to you that many real estate agents and mortgage lenders are being a little pushy to buy NOW but it is because we know how great a situation this is!! It is also a really great investment if you do it the right way.

Please ask if you have any questions on whether now is the time for you.

How Much Loan Can a VA Borrower Get?

John Hersey, e-PRO Realtor (Prudential Bob Yost Homesale Services) — Fri, 13 Aug 2010 10:07:16 -0700

Thanks Bruce! Good info for all of us. I love working with Veterans! I think the whole process can be overwhelming for any buyer. Many buyers just have NO idea how everything works the you have the VA telling people they are able to get a NO money down loan GUARANTEED and so many other things I have heard that are a little off. Thanks again for putting this info out there.

Via Bruce Reichstein (VALoans.com - Nationwide Expert VA Loan Officer - Vets 1st):

I’ve been covering some of the basics of VA home loans in my recent posts, including what the VA does and does NOT do for the buyer. There are a few other basics first time home buyers and RE agents new to the VA loan process should know.

One common question the new VA loan applicant wants to know is how much they can borrow with a VA guaranteed loan. There are many reasons for asking—some buyers want to know what the ceiling is, regardless of what they can afford. They want to know, just in case they are able to borrow up to the maximum some day. There’s nothing wrong with dreaming big.

Other buyers are more practical. They want to know if there’s a ceiling on what they can get approved by the VA because they want to compare that limit to what they have budgeted for. Practicality is good.

But the Department of Veterans Affairs doesn’t have a specific dollar amount set for a maximum VA home loan. For starters, the VA doesn’t issue the loan, it only guarantees a certain amount in case the borrower defaults.

The maximum guarantee is based on the market value of the property listed on the Notice of Value, plus the lender’s own requirements.

But even when the maximum loan amount is known based on these factors, does that mean the borrower is qualified to get that full amount? As with conventional loans, not in every case. The lender must be willing to extend the credit—the VA can’t force a lender to issue credit in any case, it can only work with the lender to make the loan more attractive.

I harp on this a lot, but it’s another reason why first time home buyers are encouraged to start planning for a VA mortgage early—they might not realize they are able to be pre-approved to borrow X amount of dollars. Does “Amount X” give them enough room to negotiate when buying a house in a particular market? Does the buyer need to raise or lower their expectations?

Good questions for a newcomer to ask in the earliest stages of VA home loan planning.

Market Report for End of July 2010

John Hersey, e-PRO Realtor (Prudential Bob Yost Homesale Services) — Wed, 11 Aug 2010 09:04:43 -0700

Numbers for July are in!! The number of homes sold in York County through July were up 10% over last year to 2,343.

However, the median sale price was down 6% to $150,000. Are you waiting to see how low the prices will go. I wouldn't do that. As the rates go up, you lose any savings that you may have had with a lower mortgage. And NOW you are spending it on interest!!

Rates are still low and FHA is making another change that will add more to your monthly payment in Sept., so GET OUT THERE AND BUY!!

Over 33,000 reasons why you should buy a home NOW!

John Hersey, e-PRO Realtor (Prudential Bob Yost Homesale Services) — Wed, 11 Aug 2010 09:00:01 -0700

Did you know that if rates go up to just 6% from 4.5% that equals about $0.93 per $1,000 of principal and interest on a 30 year mortgage? 6% might sound high right now but when I bough a home in 1995 the rates were at 9.5%. Just ask those who bought before that when they were in the teens!

YES, that is $93 a month on only a $100,000 mortgage. That is an extra $33,480 of just interest over those 30 years!!

That is why people need to see the importance of these low rates and do whatever they can to buy! If you need help with getting started, JUST ASK!! That is why I am here!

Where Have All The Buyers Gone?

John Hersey, e-PRO Realtor (Prudential Bob Yost Homesale Services) — Wed, 21 Jul 2010 15:45:32 -0700

I can't believe with...

the number of homes for sale
the number of price reductions
the current interest rates

that there are not more buyers atleast trying to buy. Do they really need an incentive by the Govt. to jump in and take control of the best financial decision they could make in a while? Or is the economy and the lack of jobs that serious of a situaton that the number of buyers really is as low as it appears?

I know homes are selling but I also know I see a lot of decent deals out there and I can't believe people are not taking advantage of them...

Are they waiting to see how low they will go? I hope not. That could backfire because the rates could also go back up anytime. That makes a BIG difference in your overall buying power.

I know there are a lot of great buyers out there that are ALSO sellers! That is where their problem lies. They can't buy if they can't sell. WOW!

To anyone on the house buying fence, I would really advise getting in touch with a mortgage lender or bank and seeing if you qualify for a mortgage and how much, etc... These rates will not stay this low forever. They just can't. This may be the best time to buy and you don't want to be kicking yourself later, saying, "I should have... but I didn't".

Numbers are in for January through June of 2010

John Hersey, e-PRO Realtor (Prudential Bob Yost Homesale Services) — Wed, 14 Jul 2010 13:28:58 -0700

Numbers for June are in!! York County home sales were 2,049, up 18% compared to Jan-June '09 and the median sales price was down 6% for the same time frame to $150,000.

I am sure the tax credit had a lot to do with that. I predict these numbers will fall on the number of homes sold AND the median price will continue... to drop.

Rates are still low so get out there and buy!! They can't stay low forever!

Home for Sale In West York, NEW PRICE $95,900, 5BR, 1 BA

John Hersey, e-PRO Realtor (Prudential Bob Yost Homesale Services) — Mon, 12 Jul 2010 16:22:25 -0700

3 Story For Sale in West York

• 1,800 sq. ft., 1 bath, 5 bdrm 3 story "Colonial" - MLS® $95,900

West York, York County - 5 bedroom, 1 bath Townhouse/End unit w/extra lot, West York Schools, Large EIK and Big LR, New windows throughout, Lots of fresh paint and updates, Fenced yard, Extra off street parking plus oversized 1 car garage. H2O heater less than 3 years old, New gas oven/stove, mud room off kitchen leads to New Deck. Call to see it today!

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Happy INDEPENDENCE DAY!!

John Hersey, e-PRO Realtor (Prudential Bob Yost Homesale Services) — Sat, 03 Jul 2010 14:42:23 -0700

Don't forget how this country came to be and thank the veterans when you come across one. Enjoy the weekend and at least take the time to think about this video and all it represents!! Thanks!

Home For Sale in York, Red Lion Schools, 2BR, 1BA

John Hersey, e-PRO Realtor (Prudential Bob Yost Homesale Services) — Fri, 02 Jul 2010 14:07:12 -0700

1 1/2 Story For Sale in Windsor Township

Solid Home

• 1,142 sq. ft., 1 bath, 2 bdrm 1 1/2 story "Cape Cod" - MLS® $134,900

Windsor Township, York County - Well built brick cape cod with 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, large walk-up attic to expand if needed, or for tons of storage. Close to 1/2 acre lot. Replacement windows, newer roof, fireplace in living room and basement. Call to see it today!

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Home For Sale in York, PA, Central Schools, Hayshire Area, $154,900

John Hersey, e-PRO Realtor (Prudential Bob Yost Homesale Services) — Thu, 20 May 2010 15:09:37 -0700

• 1,538 sq. ft., 2 bath, 3 bdrm 1 1/2 story "Cape Cod" - MLS® $154,900

Hayshire Area, York County - 3 bedroom, 2 bath brick cape cod with covered 16 x 30 deck, single attached garage plus double detached garage with electric and wood stove. Great landscaping including fish ponds. New roof to be installed. Big rec. room and office in lower level, gas heat, and central air. Call to see it today!

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PA Primaries are here!

John Hersey, e-PRO Realtor (Prudential Bob Yost Homesale Services) — Mon, 17 May 2010 08:03:00 -0700

Well, it is that time again. For some, it is a time to let their feelings be known and cast their vote for who they would like to see run for office.

For MANY others it is a time to continue complaining and whining and not do anything about it.

For a few others, it is a time of anger and frustration because they can not vote in a primary because they are independent or Libertarian, etc...

It was reported in our local paper this morning that in 2009 only 17% of our local voters voted.

17%!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

You must be kidding me! Out of the remaining 83%, how many of them complain day in and day out about the issues and think, "my vote won't make a difference."?

Well, it just might!

So, get out there and vote people, while we are still allowed!!

Mobile Home For Sale In West York Schools, $10,995!

John Hersey, e-PRO Realtor (Prudential Bob Yost Homesale Services) — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 08:54:53 -0700

Manufactured Home For Sale in West York

• 910 sq. ft., 1 bath, 2 bdrm manufactured home - MLS® $10,995

West York, York - Well maintained mobile ready for new Owner. 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, big living room with peak shingled roof, nice covered patio with deck and built on shed and also seperate shed. 2 parking spots on street. Quiet area. Must be park approved.

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January 2010 compared to January 2009

John Hersey, e-PRO Realtor (Prudential Bob Yost Homesale Services) — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 12:43:08 -0800

The numbers are in... For January 2010 the median sale price in York County was up 2% compared to January of 2009 and the number of homes sold was up 6% from January 2009.

If you are planning on buying, do it now before the prices rise again. I really think if the mortgage market continues to make it harder for buyers the prices will continue to drop. The people who NEED to sell will have no choice. The good news is that you can get a good deal on an upgrade.

If you are interested in specific school district numbers, just ask!

York County PA Real Estate Snapshot

John Hersey, e-PRO Realtor (Prudential Bob Yost Homesale Services) — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 12:28:30 -0800

Did you know that York County home sales in 2009, according to RAYAC, The Realtors Association of York and Adams Counties, were only down 3% from 2008? The number of homes sold was actually up 4%.

Remember there are a lot of short sales and foreclosures contributing to these numbers. Also, it has been mentioned that these short sales are affecting the value of all homes. If you are thinking of selling, you want to make sure you have a good amount of equity to make it all work.

Do you have a certain School District you would like numbers on? Just ask!

What is the Women's Media Center so afraid of.......... Tim Tebow of all people.... Really!

John Hersey, e-PRO Realtor (Prudential Bob Yost Homesale Services) — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 12:05:02 -0800

Thanks Alice! What a mess...

Via Alice Linahan (Keller Williams):

I find it interesting that a group of women are so hell bent on shutting down a commercial that is set to air during the Superbowl this year. The commercial which is being paid for by Focus on the Family tells the story of Tim Tebow's mother Pam who went against a doctor's advice and decided to keep Tim despite medical risks.

This is a subject near and dear to my heart because I was told the same thing from doctors and had I listened my husband and I would not have our son Cody.

The Women's Media Center is the group that is trying so hard to have the commercial taken down.

Women's Groups Blast 'Divisive' Pro-Life Super Bowl Ad -- Without Even Seeing It

Now let's take a look at the Women's Media center whose president Jehmu Green, is the former Rock the Vote head. Women's Media Center says that their goal is to work with the media to ensure that women's stories are told and women's voices are heard. But now they are working very hard to not allow a Conservative Christian woman's story to be told because it is a story that celebrates life and a women's choice to choose life. Hmmm I find that interesting.

I wrote a post several weeks ago Just how much more will Parents allow before we stop what we are doing and speak out!! where I showed a commercial that Rock the Vote put together.

As a parent and as a women I am sickened and appalled by women like Jehmau Green.

Here is an add by Rock the Vote which by the way is a tax exempt 501c3 non-partisan ‘charity' who was working hard for the Democrats and Obama and his push to pass Health-care reform.

I heard an interview with Jahmu Green this morning where she was putting out false information saying that 70% of Americans were supportive of a women's right to choose. I would like to know where she is getting her numbers. She also stated that Focus on the Family is UnAmerican. What?????

Here is what Tim Tibow is all about. I would say his mother Pam is an amazing women who raised an amazing son who's story has every right to be told. Watch and tell me who you want your child to be influenced by. Rock the Vote or Tim Tebow.

As for me and my house, We will serve the Lord. Just as Tim Tebow does.

"Courage is contagious. When a brave man takes a stand, the spines of others are often stiffened."

-Billy Graham

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Remember the biggest compliment I can receive is a referral from you!

I would love the opportunity to earn your business!

Alice Linahan Keller Williams Realtor Argyle-DFW Cell 972-322-8313

You can find me where people, homes, opportunity and a bit of imagination intersect!

Note from Alice: This is my post and my opinion and may not be the opinion of Keller Williams Corp.

A reminder: This is my public blog. Posters who leave comments that are personal attacks against the blogger or other commentators will be deleted. Debate the issue!!!! Thank you

THIS IS WHAT WE DO . . . WE'RE AMERICANS!

John Hersey, e-PRO Realtor (Prudential Bob Yost Homesale Services) — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 07:08:11 -0800

Thanks Simon!! This needs to be seen by as many people as possible!

Via Simon Conway (Orlando Area Real Estate Services):

I came across something today that was released just before Thanksgiving. It is of Lt. Col. Oliver North giving a speech to the NRA. It is perhaps one of the most moving tributes to our brave men and women in harms' way that I have ever seen.
I am grateful to one of my listeners on 540 WFLA who - like many others - continues to exchange e-mail with me or to follow me on Facebook. For it is she who sent me this link this morning. She is not looking for praise. She does not wish me to name her. She merely wrote: "This is what we do... we're Americans."

It is interesting because it was an e-mail that she forwarded to me. And on the first forwaders (hopefully that's a word!) had this to say:

"This is a great video, have plenty of Kleenex on hand. This is one of the most moving and enlightening speeches that I have ever seen, give by one our own great Americans, Lt. Col. Oliver North. For those of you who lean a little left, watch the video and then do as you wish with it.
Sincerely,

Don Wiley

Former Marine Fighter Pilot

He is not joking. It is indeed one of the most moving speeches about our heroes that I have ever seen. Turn off all distractions while you watch it.

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
(Copyright © 2010 By Simon L Conway All Rights Reserved.)

Simon Conway is the two-time winner of the FIVE STAR Best in Client Satisfaction for Real Estate Agents in the Orlando area.

Please give me a call if you have questions about the Central Florida real estate market. You can reach me on 407 876 8200. Also visit my web site at www.simonconway.net or www.move2orlando.net

Fort Hood Photo

John Hersey, e-PRO Realtor (Prudential Bob Yost Homesale Services) — Sat, 12 Dec 2009 09:10:45 -0800

Thanks Nick! Thought I would share. Good stuff about a bad situation.

Via Nicholas Goglucci, PA. (RE/Max ParkCreek):

Just another incident that makes me want to shout...

Ft. Hood

Down in Dothan, AL, a man had a TV on in his office when the news of the military base shootings came on. The husband of one of his employees was stationed there.

He called her into his office and the minute he told her what was going on, she got a text message from her husband saying, "I am okay." The cell phone started ringing right after that. It was an ER nurse. She said, "I'm the one who just sent you a text, not your husband." She thought the message would be comforting, but she immediately knew she had to let the wife know what was going on. She said, "I am sorry but your husband has been shot 4 times and he is in surgery."

The wife left Southern Clinic in Dothan and drove all night.

Miraculously, here is the photo I just received my brother that was taken today in the hospital room. He is awake and will recover. His wife, who lives in Dothan, made it to Ft. Hood about the time he was waking up. Thought I'd share this great outcome.

Not surprisingly, This soldiers only contact from Obama was when Obama went on TV to downplay the incident & make his pro-Muslim statement!

George Bush might not have been the brightest bulb on the tree--but he certainly had the greater integrity. He and Laura visited the Fort Hood survivors, and the families of the deceased, without fanfare--and before Obama made his campaign stop complete with teleprompters.

Nicholas Goglucci, PA., CRS
Certified Residential Specialist
Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist

e-Pro Certified

Re/Max ParkCreek

121,614 Associates in 6,960 offices in over 65 countries
Direct Line: 954-650-7800
Fax Line: 954-903-4348
www.GoglucciTeam.com

Henrico Medal of Honor recipient, 90, ordered to remove flagpole

John Hersey, e-PRO Realtor (Prudential Bob Yost Homesale Services) — Fri, 04 Dec 2009 07:40:15 -0800

Thank You Adolfo for sharing this bit of NONSENSE!!

Via Adolfo Trana Bilingual Real Estate Agent Spanish speaking real estate Agent |Ga. (METROBROKERS / GMAC REAL ESTATE):

I do not mean to go off on a rant but, I must wonder what does it say about our society, when we have a problem with a Congressional Medal of Honor recipient flying the United States Flag on his property, because of estetics no less, the same flag that thousand have die to deffend and the same flag that one day will surely drape his coffin, today it seem that we are infatuated with sports stars, movie stars, we are star struck and give more credence to someone in a reality show than a true to life Hero.

This man one day will receive the salute of a grateful Nation when he is laid to rest with full military honors, why not salute him now that he still alive by honoring his right to fly our flag, after all he put his life on the line for it, that is much more than many people are willing to do today.

Talk about the ultimate betrayal.

http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/local/article/POLEGAT02_20091202-091201/309031/P0/

A special Veterans Day service

John Hersey, e-PRO Realtor (Prudential Bob Yost Homesale Services) — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 11:06:44 -0800

This one was a little more meaningful to me than the others because my Step Dad Retired MSG William J.(Jim, Pappaw) Starner was among 162 York County Veterans to have their names engraved on the newest Memorial at Prospect Hill Cemetery. It is called the Court of Valor and certain requirements needed to be met to be included. He was added for 2 Bronze Stars in Vietnam.

Here he is being interviewed by a local TV station, WPMT Fox 43. They would have to do a 30 minute documentary to hear all of what he said!!

At the top you can see a piece from the World Trade Center. Everyone was amazed that the final measurement of the 10 Feet section actually was 9'11"!

Here is the actual video from the news...

North York Boro, 2 Unit Investment Property, $130,000

John Hersey, e-PRO Realtor (Prudential Bob Yost Homesale Services) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 13:34:45 -0800

3 Story For Sale in North York

• 4,376 sq. ft., 1 bath, 2 bdrm 3 story - MLS® $130,000 - Great Opportunity

North York, York County - Investor Alert!! 2 Unit close to Rt30. 2BR Apt. w/1100 Sq Ft and 1600 Sq Ft 1st floor currently used as cake business. Paved parking in rear.

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York Haven Home For Sale, $105,000 4 or 5 BR, 2 Full Baths

John Hersey, e-PRO Realtor (Prudential Bob Yost Homesale Services) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 13:32:14 -0800

2 1/2 Story For Sale in York Haven

Move In Ready!

• 1,414 sq. ft., 2 bath, 4 bdrm 2 1/2 story "Colonial" - MLS® $105,000

York Haven, York County - Great semi near river. Close to York and Harrisburg. 4 or 5 bedrooms, 2 full baths, awesome kitchen, private back yard with 12 x 19 deck. Move in ready. Call to see it today.

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New Jersey Voters!!! Vote Jim Bean for Belmar Council!!

John Hersey, e-PRO Realtor (Prudential Bob Yost Homesale Services) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 12:11:24 -0700

If you are a New Jersey Resident or know any, please take a look or pass this on!!

Here is a link to Jim's web page. Check it out and support him in the upcoming election. I thank you in advance for checking into this and spreading the word. He grew up around where I did and went on to serve his country and build a business. Thanks for taking the time!!

Awesome 2 story in York County, Central Schools

John Hersey, e-PRO Realtor (Prudential Bob Yost Homesale Services) — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 10:42:49 -0700

2 Story For Sale in York County

Just Like New!

• 1,960 sq. ft., 2 bath, 3 bdrm 2 story "Colonial" - MLS® $231,900

York County, Pennsylvania

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Like-new 2 story colonial in nice neighborhood in Central Schools. Fresh paint throughout, newer Berber and laminate, new maintenance-free 12 x 16 deck, vinyl fence, 8 x 10 shed, 12 x 12 screen porch, 2nd floor laundry in den/office...could be 4th bedroom. All appliances included. MBR has 6x7.5 sitting area.

Home For Sale In York, PA, Red Lion Schools $199,000

John Hersey, e-PRO Realtor (Prudential Bob Yost Homesale Services) — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 14:11:06 -0700

2 Story For Sale in York County

Very well maintained!

• 1,475 sq. ft., 1 bath, 3 bdrm 2 story "Colonial" - MLS® $199,000

York County, Pennsylvania - Well kept 2 story in nice neighborhood. Custom Keener kitchen, Living room with fireplace and berber carpet, Bonus room over garage used as den now, could be used as BR if needed. Mature lawn and landscaping with private deck and enjoy the front porch too! Call to see it today!!

Property information

Home for Sale In York, PA $225,000 With Sep. Living Quarters

John Hersey, e-PRO Realtor (Prudential Bob Yost Homesale Services) — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 14:08:02 -0700

2 1/2 Story w/Sep. Liv. Area For Sale in Shiloh area , York, PA

Not Built Like This Anymore!

• 2,376 sq. ft., 2 bath, 4 bdrm 2 1/2 story "Colonial" - MLS® $225,000

Shiloh, York County - They don't build them like this anymore! 3 BR, 1.5 bath, sunroom/den, LR, DR in main part of house. LR, 1 BR, 1 Full bath, kitchen and laundry in seperate quarters with seperate entrance, front & back. Awesome front porch, wraparound driveway, on almost an acre country lot. Needs some updating; must see to appreciate. Hardwood under carpets on 1st floor.

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John's York PA Real Estate Blog

Everyone Likes A Sale, RIGHT??

How Much Loan Can a VA Borrower Get?

Market Report for End of July 2010

Over 33,000 reasons why you should buy a home NOW!

Where Have All The Buyers Gone?

Numbers are in for January through June of 2010

Home for Sale In West York, *NEW PRICE* $95,900, 5BR, 1 BA

3 Story For Sale in West York

Happy INDEPENDENCE DAY!!

Home For Sale in York, Red Lion Schools, 2BR, 1BA

1 1/2 Story For Sale in Windsor Township

Home For Sale in York, PA, Central Schools, Hayshire Area, $154,900

PA Primaries are here!

Mobile Home For Sale In West York Schools, $10,995!

Manufactured Home For Sale in West York

January 2010 compared to January 2009

York County PA Real Estate Snapshot

What is the Women's Media Center so afraid of.......... Tim Tebow of all people.... Really!

THIS IS WHAT WE DO . . . WE'RE AMERICANS!

Fort Hood Photo

Henrico Medal of Honor recipient, 90, ordered to remove flagpole

Talk about the ultimate betrayal.

A special Veterans Day service

North York Boro, 2 Unit Investment Property, $130,000

3 Story For Sale in North York

York Haven Home For Sale, $105,000 4 or 5 BR, 2 Full Baths

2 1/2 Story For Sale in York Haven

New Jersey Voters!!! Vote Jim Bean for Belmar Council!!

Awesome 2 story in York County, Central Schools

2 Story For Sale in York County

Home For Sale In York, PA, Red Lion Schools $199,000

2 Story For Sale in York County

Home for Sale In York, PA $225,000 With Sep. Living Quarters

2 1/2 Story w/Sep. Liv. Area For Sale in Shiloh area , York, PA

Home for Sale In West York, NEW PRICE $95,900, 5BR, 1 BA