Holmesburg vs. Torresdale: What do you think of these neighborhoods? (Philadelphia: for sale, rentals)

[LizandKeef]

Hi!

I live in Bucks County, PA, I'm originally from NJ. I am looking for houses with my boyfriend, and we came across a really great deal on a NE Philly rowhome from a friend. The home is located on the 4600 block of Tolbut Street, on what appears to be the border between Holmesburg and Torresdale.

Neither my boyfriend nor I are too familiar with this area. Our friend (the seller) was very candid describing the neighborhood: Backing up to the row homes are a group of abandoned buildings, he had mentioned hearing that a developer would be putting up new townhomes, but didn't know any details.

The neighborhood seems okay, but I am concerned about the abandoned buildings and the future plans for them. I know that moving forward into East Torresdale is a great area, I just seem to be on the cusp of a bad neighborhood.

Any locals that can offer advice? We would be getting the house for a GREAT value, save a lot of money to put into our next home purchase. Feedback??

Thanks!!!

[solibs]

Aren't those "abandoned buildings" you're talking about former housing projects?

Usually when they get redeveloped it's at a lower density and they go from being all subsidized rentals to mixed-income for sale/rentals. You should be able to find it online . . . and here's something Northeast Times from 3+ years ago, and seeing as how it's empty now it looks like they're moving forward.

Northeast Times

and from 2007 Philadelphia Housing Authority | Pressroom

It could be an opportunity. Maybe you can find some more recent stuff on the final designs.

[LizandKeef]

Solibs, Thanks for the links!! That is exactly the kind of information we need, I hope to find even more current information now that I have a starting point!

[bryson662001]

Generally that is a super fabulous location. As long as that housing is empty and abandoned I would take a chance. It is unlikly in this day and age that they will be rehabbed for their original use although they may take awhile to get demolished. Be sure to check out the Morell Park Shoprite north on Frankford Av and the Toresdale train station on Grant Ave @ 95. Also the YMCA on Knights Rd just south of Woodhaven. (and the library accross the street on Knights Rd)

[LizandKeef]

Thanks for the tips!! We are planning to go and hang out in the neighborhood this week or weekend, any recommendations for restaurants or anything? It'd be nice to have a heads up on local cuisine!!

So far the research I've done on the area is yielding mixed reviews, but overall positive... I guess the best I can do is spend some quality time in the neighborhood and try to get a feel for it?

Thanks for responding!!

[NativePfilly]

Holmesburg Bakery on Frankford near Rhawn is very good. For Italian goodies, there is De Palma's; however, driving there is like a secret handshade due to the one way and zig-zag street its on. In addition to baked goodies, they have frozen prepared entries, etc. Their bruchetta topping is even good cold, yum. Going further afield there's many places in Mayfair such as Moe's to frequent.

[frankgn87]

If you grew up in jersey and are used to bucks you won't think Philly has a good quality of life. Crime will be higher, your car will get broken into more, loud music from uncaring neighbors may happen, the streets will have lots of trash , etc. . I know cause I lived it.. You may get lucky but I have no idea why you would want to move to Philly where your car insurance will be higher and city wage tax (if you make decent $$) will take hundreds from your packets every month..

This is NOT a city slam its just my honest experience.

[bryson662001]

Originally Posted by frankgn87

If you grew up in jersey and are used to bucks you won't think Philly has a good quality of life. Crime will be higher, your car will get broken into more, loud music from uncaring neighbors may happen, the streets will have lots of trash , etc. . I know cause I lived it.. You may get lucky but I have no idea why you would want to move to Philly where your car insurance will be higher and city wage tax (if you make decent $$) will take hundreds from your packets every month..

This is NOT a city slam its just my honest experience.

Exagerated although not alltogether untrue but if you are going to live in Philly you couldn't choose a better spot than you have chosen. I spend alot of time in that neighborhood and often feel as if I am not in Philly at all.

[frankgn87]

If I had to live in Philly I would pick the somerton/pine valley area .. Id say thats the BEST the NE has to offer.

Originally Posted by bryson662001

Exagerated although not alltogether untrue but if you are going to live in Philly you couldn't choose a better spot than you have chosen. I spend alot of time in that neighborhood and often feel as if I am not in Philly at all.

[LizandKeef]

Thanks everybody!! It was so long since I got a reply I didn't even think to check back! Frankgn, I appreciate the advice... I've lived in higher crime areas vs. super suburbs, and I felt okay in the neighborhood.

I still have reservations, but the deal on the house was too great to pass!! We bought and will close in November, I am keeping my fingers crossed that the Lindenburg (?) homes will be cleared out soon and replaced with nicer housing!! But definitely a risk I'm willing to take.

Any other suggestions restaurants, etc, let me know, I'll definitely be checking back!!