Is Blondell Reynolds-Brown Full of Lead? - 11/30/11 08:39 AM
Is Blondell Reynolds-Brown Full of Lead?
Blondell Reynolds-Brown introduced a bill that will require landlords to pass a lead-base paint inspection test before being able to lease their property.  As both a Realtor, an owner of a real estate office and a landlord of twelve properties, I find this bill to be ridiculous and unnecessary.   If anything, I would question the motives of  her campaign contributions and who would benefit from this bill and why it was introduced in the first place. 
As a Realtor and Owner of RE/MAX Access, I have personally been involved with thousands of settlements where people have purchased homes … (4 comments)

Some Much Needed R&R at First Friday in Fishtown - 11/29/11 09:57 AM
R&R? That'd be Rebecca Jacoby and Robert Solomon, and you can check out their latest work this Friday, November 2nd in Fishtown. Check out more First Friday in Fishtown events here and add our favorite pick below to your list!
FIRST FRIDAY AT 1816 FRANKFORD AVENUE
Location: 1816 Frankford Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19125
Reception and opening will be on December 2nd, 2011 from 5pm to 8pm. The show will run until the end of January and is open by appointment.
1816 Frankford Ave is pleased to present the work of artists Rebecca Jacoby and Rob Solomon. Rebecca Jacoby's abstract work … (1 comments)

Shop, Save, and Search Homes for Sale in Northern Liberties! - 11/28/11 03:52 PM
If you didn't get a chance to shop this past weekend (we totally respect your willpower) or simply prefer to shop local, why not check out the NoLibs Holiday Shopping Spree next weekend in Northern Liberties? As extra incentive, NLArts will provide childcare and holiday arts for kids who are 3 years old and up (must be potty trained) both days of the event from noon to 4pm at the Northern Liberties Community Center, 700 N. 3rd Street. $5/hour per child to cover supplies.
If your wish list happens to include a new home, we also invite you to contact us … (0 comments)

Selling Your Philadelphia Home? Think Twice Before Listing With Your Best Friend - 11/27/11 08:04 AM
Selling Your Philadelphia Home?  Think Twice Before Listing With Your Best Friend
Selling your Philadelphia Home is a big decision.  Who are you going to list with? Your best friend? A good friend? Someone you know or a premier listing agent that services your area? These are the questions to ask yourself whether it be your primary residence or even an investment property that you own.  Too often I hear after the fact, "Well I gave the listing to so and so because I thought he would do a good job." This sale is going to bring in proceeds for you, or perhaps save you from a … (14 comments)

Real Estate Negotiation - What We Can Learn from the "Super"Committee and Occupy Philly - 11/26/11 09:06 AM
Real Estate Negotiation - What We Can Learn from The "Super" Committee and Occupy Philly
I love to negotiate.  I love to sell real estate.  Day or night.  Weekday or weekend.  It is what I do.  And I am one of the best in Philadelphia.  It is a skill.  Part of that skill is to know when to stop and to know when to recommend a deal to your buyer or seller client and NOT TO OVER-NEGOTIATE.  That is when it becomes an art.  And that is when you become a true deal-maker.  Over-negotiation can be a deal-killer.

Two recent … (6 comments)

Holiday Gifts for the High Brows, HEivas, and Homebodies! - 11/22/11 03:21 PM

Holiday Pollyanna dead-line closing in on your calendar? Got a "difficult to shop for person" on your gift list? Plagued by the the person who has everything, needs nothing, the scrooge, or just plain running out of inspiration for gift ideas this Holiday?
Well, we feel ya. So, we came up with a few cool gift ideas that you can shop for online on Black Friday, Cyber Monday or any time your heart desires. If these gifts don't work for you, then they will certainly inspire new ideas that will make your Holiday shopping a huge success this year!
The … (3 comments)

A New Beginning in Wissinoming: 1621 Brill Street - 11/22/11 02:28 PM
1621 Brill Street is a completely remodeled home in the Northeast neighborhood of Wissinoming.
The keyword here is NEW, from the new hardwood floors throughout the first floor to the shiny new kitchen with Energy Star appliances, new tile 1/2 bath on the first floor and 3 bedrooms with new carpet and new tile bathroom. This home has new energy efficient systems and carries a 1-year home warranty and 5-year roof warranty. This home meets strict construction standards mandated by the NSP program. Please call for any details regarding this program.
Now have a closer look...



Ready for … (2 comments)

The Somers' Version of A Realtor's Thanksgiving Prayer - 11/22/11 12:02 PM
Inspired by the original Realtor's Thanksgiving Prayer, we decided to give this poetry thing a go. Happy Thanksgiving to all!
Give us patience With all nosy neighbors, And clients who lower Our commission as a favor.
Grant us peace During Home Inspection stress, And give us super natural powers To negotiate the mess.
Let it be Our Lock Boxs never jam, Our keys never stolen, Inboxes kept free of SPAM!
For Lord, we are just Agents. Humble souls. That's right! Hanging on to every deal, With all of our might!
Ok! We admit We use the internet to vent, And Facebook, … (1 comments)

What's on Sale for Black Friday 2011? Lots! - 11/21/11 04:07 PM
This Black Friday and holiday shopping season, make a real investment. You'll get lots for your money! Yes, that's right, lots...2 of them!
Check out these two great lots for sale in Northern Liberties at 1032-34 N Leithgow Street. These lots can be sold together. Each lot is approximately 13.25 wide and 33.50 deep. The photos attached are renderings for 1036 N Leithgow (not included in this sale) which is a 20'x30', 1,700 sf artist depiction of possible construction. These lots are zoned R10A. All building and building plans are subject to zoning approval at buyer expense. But, WOW, what an … (1 comments)

Fresh Address: Live and Work at 150 Cecil B Moore! - 11/21/11 11:22 AM
Calling all creatives! This week's Fresh Address is an impressively large 10,000 SF building in an arts-driven neighborhood...
This is Where It's At: 150 Cecil B Moore is a creative space in Old Kensington, a zip code with art studios and live/work spaces, galleries, and more.
Come On In: We welcome you to our new listing at 150 Cecil B Moore. This 10,000 SF Warehouse, converted and approved as 4 Amazing Factory Loft Style Live/Work Spaces with commercial zoning. Secure wrought iron gated parking on Cecil B Moore with 4 deeded parking spaces is included. Reminiscent of the Steel Factory condos … (1 comments)

Why is Occupy Philly Censoring on Facebook? - 11/20/11 05:48 AM
Why is Occupy Philly Censoring on Facebook ?
It came to my surprise today that my comments were deleted from Occupy Philly Facebook's page.  And needless to say, I am unable to make any new comments.   I noticed when I went to the page, I had to "relike" the page.  What I find very surprising here is that this was supposed to be a movement that prides itself on the Freedom of Speech and democracy, NOT censorship, exclusion and a form of big brother!  

Yes, I have been both a supporter and a critic of Occupy Philly.  I have written several … (9 comments)

OPEN HOUSE: Sunday 11/20 1-3PM–A Great Weekend to Check Out this Modern Condo - 11/18/11 04:43 PM
912 N 2nd Street, Unit B - $249,900
Photo Gallery
You won’t want to miss this Open House on Sunday from 1-3PM. Here’s your chance to tour a modern condo with lots of space to pamper yourself and located in an incredible neighborhood.

 
Here are some of the great features you’ll see on your tour:
African Walnut Hardwoods A Dream Kitchen with subway tile, maple cabinets, Italian granite and Stainless Steel appliances Large Guest Room Huge Master Lots of Closet Space Spa Bathroom Recessed lighting Balcony And so much more! Since Sunday is expected to be a perfect fall … (1 comments)

Is There Spinach in my Teeth? - 11/18/11 10:05 AM
There is spinach in your teeth.
All of us have peered in the mirror to find spinach in our teeth and ended up wondering "How long has that been there?" or "I wonder why no one told me?" or worse "I don't even remember eating spinach!"
This simple and seemingly ridiculous fact gets me thinking that there are two types of people in the world. There are those who will tell you that you have spinach in your teeth, or your zipper is down, or there's schmootz on your face, and those who won't.
Those people who won't tell you that … (3 comments)

Energy Bills to Drop 10.6% - 11/17/11 04:55 PM
We're buzzed to see that Peco Energy Co.'s residential supply charge will decrease 10.6 percent starting January 1. According to Philly.com, "its price for most residential customers would decrease from 11.14 cents per kilowatt hour to 9.96 cents. For a customer using 500 kilowatt hours, the monthly savings would amount to $5.90."
Not huge, but we'll take it! Why the change? The charge is adjusted according to market conditions. The article also warns that the decrease is not entirely good news, as it will impact customers who already have a discounted rate. These customers are free to switch to an alternative … (5 comments)

Hip Buyers Hotline: Call 1 800 N Lawrence Street, F! - 11/17/11 03:24 PM
Don't forget this hot number! 800 N Lawrence Street F is waiting to hear from you. You always say the good ones are always taken...but it's just not true!
Reasons you should pick up the phone right now?
It's a 2 Bedroom, 2.5 Bath Condo in Northern Liberties with those features you look for in a real keeper. A private entrance, low condo fees, exposed brick and a working gas fireplace in the living room, and close to Honey's and North 3rd Street. Oh, my, you are ready to move in, aren't you? We thought so...come get it before it's taken! … (0 comments)

Tip Jar: Adopt a Scandinavian! - 11/17/11 10:28 AM
Inspired by Food & Wine's Trendspotting editorial, we're thinking Denmark, Norway, Sweden, and all things Nordic this holiday season. When it comes to home decor or the food you serve at your holiday dinner, adopt a Scandinavian design or recipe this season to mix it up over the holidays.
Food
Gravlax - Serve this delicious and delicate salt and sugar cured salmon dish that is fantastic on toast and served with Champagne. One of my favorite dishes!
Swedish or Norwegian Meatballs - (recipe from Scandilicious by Signe Johnson, p. 32 in December issue of Food & Wine)
Jarlesburg Cheese - … (0 comments)

Marathon Monday: Catch Up On Our Latest Listings! - 11/14/11 02:56 PM

314 Brown Street, 206
2406 and 2408 Amber Street
2149 E Harold Street
1324 Locust Street, 304
1835 N Leithgow Street
837 N 2nd Street, 309, Rental
Like what you see? Contact the Somers Team to book your tour!
… (1 comments)

Fresh Address: 2408 Amber Street - 11/14/11 01:25 PM
We introduced this new listing to you last week and this week we take a closer look at East Kensington's newest gem...
This is Where It's At: 2408 Amber Street is in East Kensington, near the Philadelphia Brewing Company, Walking Fish Theatre, Leotah's Place, the East Kensington Neighbors Association, and Atlantis: the Lost Bar.
Come On In: Step inside this 3 Story 3 Bedroom 2 Bath Home with a modern, open floorplan, full unfinished basement, and a fantastic yard. Priced at $199,900. This property features hardwood floors throughout, recessed lighting, with a spacious living area and dining area. The kitchen … (1 comments)

Open House Tour - Sunday, 11/13 – Visit A Home That Makes a Statement! - 11/11/11 06:17 PM
You’re invited to tour a home that truly makes a statement on Sunday, November 13th 1-3PM.
429 Popular Street – $515,000
This 3 story 3 bedroom home has a private 1 car garage and a huge roof deck with panoramic views of Northern Liberties and Center City.

Other features include:
Windows on all 3 sides offering tons of natural lighting Hardwood floors throughout Kitchen with stainless steel appliances, granite counters, and lots of food prep space Breakfast nook with window views and access to slider doors overlooking the patio Lower level family room Huge storage room under the … (1 comments)

All About Amber...and Harold! New Listings in East Kensington. - 11/11/11 09:02 AM
The action is on Amber Street this season as we welcome 3 new Amber Street listings to the fold. All are priced under $200K!
The best part is that if you're looking in Fishtown and East Kensington, there is a good chance that 1 of these 4 properties will be right up your alley. Why not book a tour to see all of them with us?
These properties are all near the Philadelphia Brewing Company, Walking Fish Theatre, Leotah's Place, the East Kensington Neighbors Association, and Atlantis: the Lost Bar. Just a few of our favorites! Now, let's check out the … (2 comments)

Did Philadelphia Forget to Vote on Election Day? - 11/10/11 05:20 PM
Did Philadelphia Forget to Vote on Election Day? When I first saw the Philadelphia Election results, I thought it was a mistake!  I saw that Mayor Michael Nutter had a little over 100,000 votes and Karen Brown had  a little over 30,000 votes.  My initial response was "is that it"?  That is all the people that voted?  The final tally was Nutter receiving about 134,000 and Brown receiving 39,000 votes.  My initial prediction was Nutter receiving about 90 percent of the votes but it turned out to be  74/21 percent which was surprising to me, partly due to the low turn-out. My thoughts on this are … (1 comments)

Rent or Buy, You Decide! 919 N Front Street B - 11/10/11 04:35 PM
Renters and buyers searching for their 3 Bedroom 2.5 Bath Escape in Northern Liberties? 919 N Front Street, B can you be all yours, however ready you are!
This impressive home with attached garage, deck & yard, and 600 SF finished basement has all of the perks: Marble foyer, finished basement, fitted for entertainment, custom lighting, granite serving area, gas fireplace, powder room, and bamboo flooring, a massive kitchen with 2 built in beverage refrigerators and bar seating with perfect view of the living room fireplace. There is a custom fitted pantry, GE Profile appliances, counter depth refrigerator and custom lighting, … (1 comments)

Tip Jar: Measure Twice. Cut Once. - 11/10/11 08:24 AM
The Art of Life. Measure twice. Cut once.
When I was in art school many years ago, I could never forget my professor's advice on how to cut a proper frame. "Measure twice. Cut once!" he would always say in a highly overdramatized fashion. If he said it once, he said it 100 times! What my professor was saying was brilliant. Take good care in making sure you double check your calculations before you make the permanent cut. Because, some mistakes cannot be fixed and some errors cannot mend. This is a lesson that is as timeless as Shakespeare's sonnets. Its … (3 comments)

Hot Ticket: 1324 Locust Street - 11/08/11 02:47 PM
The aptly named Arts Condominium in Center City puts you right next to the Avenue of the Arts in Philadelphia. Imagine your own studio close to the grand entertainment venues of the city, with arts colleges, shopping, and restaurants all around you. 1324 Locust Street, Unit 304 is your front row ticket at $75,000.
The best seats in the house? Enter the impressive marbled lobby with controlled access and a 24 hour attendant, with access to a community room and fitness center, plus bike parking, laundry, and a salon on-site. This pet-friendly studio is an excellent choice for your artist abode.
… (1 comments)

Fresh Address: Now For Rent! - 11/07/11 10:18 AM
Let's take a look at 837 N 2nd Street, Unit 309 in Northern Liberties with some fresh eyes! Because this incredible 2 Bedroom Condo is freshly available as a rental! So if you're not ready to buy just yet, this amazing rental opportunity could be yours...
This is Where It's At: Located in walking distance to restaurants, coffee shops, local entertainment, and minutes from Center City. This is hands down, one of the best spots to live in Northern Liberties.
Come On In: So many amenities...Garage parking for 2 cars, 2 large bedrooms, 2 .5 large bathrooms, and a personal … (3 comments)

Philadelphia Short Sales - A Sweet Victory - 11/06/11 07:24 AM
Philadelphia Short Sales - A Sweet Victory
We recently had a successful Philadelphia short sale for a Center City Condo in the Victory Building at 10th and Chestnut.  This was a very sweet "Victory" as we had to negotiate with Bank of America through five separate buyers to finally make it to a settlement table.   To be honest, we almost gave up on this one as the lender for whatever reason was just not being reasonable with what they were willing to accept and there was not much more we could do and with the mountains of hours we had into … (11 comments)

Northern Liberties OPEN HOUSE: Sunday, November 6th 1-3PM–A Home & Neighborhood that has it all! - 11/04/11 05:18 PM
912 N 2nd Street, Unit B - $249,900
Photo Gallery
You won’t want to miss this Open House on Sunday from 1-3PM in Northern Liberties – Tour a modern and luxurious 2BR Condo with incredible details in every room!
Tours start at 1pm (be sure to move your clocks back an hour on Saturday evening so you don't miss a minute of our tour!)

Here are some of the great features you’ll see on your tour:
African Walnut Hardwoods A Dream Kitchen with subway tile, maple cabinets, Italian granite and Stainless Steel appliances Large Guest Room Huge Master Lots of … (3 comments)

This Weekend in Fishtown: Do This and Tour These! - 11/04/11 03:07 PM
It's First Friday in Fishtown! Check out the ever-growing lineup here.
It's also a great weekend to check out the newly revamped menu at Frankford Hall ($3 half-liters of beer with every burger or sausage ordered!) or saddle up to new Fishtown cantina Loco Pez (in the former Crazy Fish Saloon) which just got a bueno review in the City Paper (order the nachos de Kenzo).
While you're up to all of that, book a tour to see one of these Fishtown listings:
2608 Edgemont Street, $310,000
2327 E Sergeant Street, $154,900
1312 E Oxford Street, $225,000
709 Belgrade Street,$299,900
… (1 comments)

5 Bedroom Home Next to Temple University - 11/03/11 01:24 PM
You do the math! It's easy to figure out that this 5 Bedroom, 2 Full Bath property next to Temple University between Berks and Cecil B Moore is a brilliant investment, at just $185,000.
1835 Leithgow Street is in great shape with updated electric, plumbing, and rooms. Basement is large, tall, dry, and there is a laundry area with washer and dryer included. Each bedroom has a window and the first floor makes a fantastic area to gather. High ceilings, formal dining area, small fenced in back alley/yard. The block is quiet, friendly, and parking is an absolute breeze.
Many options … (1 comments)

Tip Jar: Early Birds Always Catch The Worm - 11/03/11 10:28 AM
Early birds may always catch the worm but who the heck wants worms? And who wants to get up early to catch them? Well if you are like us and you are the kind that savors gently easing into your day and not rushing to beat traffic only to find yourself stuck in it anyway, then you will like this week's simple tip.
Take your time.
Even FoxNews this morning warns not to shop early for holiday gifts this year, that the best sales will come to the late shoppers. Don't be fooled by the lure of pre-season sales and … (5 comments)

Short and Sweet at 314 Brown Street - 11/02/11 09:22 AM
Short Sale opportunity in Northern Liberties! 314 Brown Street, 206 is a 1 Bedroom Loft located across from North Third(a Somers Team favorite!). This contemporary condo not only has an ideal location on 3rd Street that puts you steps away from brunch hotspots, coffeeshops, Liberty Lands Park, and Liberties Walk, it also includes:
Private off street deeded gated parking Soaring 16' ceilings Exposed brick, polished concrete floors, granite and stainless steel Extra basement storag All appliances included Large living space All offers welcome! Priced at $259,900. Contact the Somers Team for more information.
View Larger Map
… (2 comments)

Meet Your Neighbors: Rachel Zimmerman of Inliquid - 11/01/11 10:38 AM
We caught up with Rachel Zimmerman, artist, curator, and founder of of Inliquid at the Crane Arts Building in Old Kensington. Find out what one of the region's "Top 101 Emerging Connectors" is up to.

To learn more about Zimmerman, her mission, and to see some of her photography, check out her profile page here. You can check out event listings for Inliquid here. … (0 comments)

The 411 on 1241 N Hancock Street - 11/01/11 09:24 AM
Let's break it down: 1241 N Hancock Street is a 2 bedroom home 2 blocks from the Piazza in Northern Liberties. That puts you close to Superfresh, cafes, boutiques, and art galleries of the neighborhood, and yet just slightly hidden enough to have your privacy. Your own little retreat includes a very large natural landscaped yard with shed and cement patio in the rear.
Inside, enjoy the open living/dining area and modern kitchen with all appliances included (dishwasher, range, microwave, refrigerator) beautiful counters, and slider doors that lead t0 the rear yard. All at the amazing price of $179,900.
Ready for … (2 comments)

 
Christopher and Stephanie Somers - Realtors - Philadelphia Real Estate (Realtor / Owner - RE/MAX Access) Ambassador_large

Christopher and Stephanie Somers - Realtors - Philadelphia Real Estate

Philadelphia, PA

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Realtor / Owner - RE/MAX Access

Address: 1033 N 2nd St, 5th Floor, Philadelphia, PA, 19123

Office Phone: (215) 400-2620

Cell Phone: (267) 987-4443

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