Marvelous Monday: Great Looks Under $250k

So, I was browsing potentially listings for WTPhilly, as I usually do on Mondays, and I opted to mix it up a little bit this week. Maybe it’s the swelter of August crushing my will to get catty about janktastic real estate, but I’m playing nice today.

So, we all know that Center City real estate is expensive. Shopping for something under $250,000 is a real crapshoot, with the emphasis on “crap.” You’re thrice as likely to come across a flea-bitten little 325 sq. ft. studio with a 9×9 tile square “kitchen” as you are anything actually habitable by full-sized human beings, especially if you get too picky about specific location.

I’m here to tell you, though, that not everything under a quarter-mil in Center City is dismal. Quite the opposite, in fact! While not every square inch of every home pictured screams “dream home,” they say that the devil is in the details – and I’d argue that dreaminess is in the details, as well. These shots of Center City deals prove that charm, character, and pride of ownership aren’t limited to the higher-end dwellings. Take a look!

142 N 2nd St # 2A

Exposed brick and hardwood floors are two details that always make buyers’ hearts go pitter-patter. This sunny 1/1, priced at $219,000, boasts an Old City location and piles of updates. I dig the savvy use of primary colors to offset all the neutrals – the overall appearance is very crisp.

419 Spruce St

Wainscoting and an oil-rubbed bronze mirror lend stately grace to this top-floor 1/1. There are plenty of extras here for the reasonable price of $225,000, including a dedicated washer/dryer in the basement, extra storage, and a new, energy-efficient HVAC system.

1010 Race St # 5LM

So. Much. Light! This 2/2 townhome, priced at $249,000, boasts sun-soaked airiness that any Rittenhouse manse would envy. The exposed brick is hella sexy, too. You’ll love the updated master suite, which features a Jacuzzi tub in the en suite bathroom.

1010 Race St APT 5K

More exposed brick – because it’s in the same building! I adore the use of calming, tranquil blue in this spacious 1/1 unit, and I covet the high ceilings and near-perfect Walk Score! Private washer/dryer and an excellent location are unexpected amenities – to say nothing of the gorgeous views. All this for $152,500!

2001 Hamilton St APT 1618

Take note, home sellers: this is how one finesses a small space. The circular mirror and wall decor are elegant offsets to the boxy shapes of the bathroom, and the curtain is both neutral and beautiful. This 1/1, $247,500 home boasts all kinds of awesome features, but garage parking has to be the most impressive!

2022 Christian St # B

Something about this step-down galley kitchen’s just got it going on – probably the maple cabinets and glass tile backsplash. This 1/1 in Grad Hospital boasts a walk-in closet, hardwood floors, and condo fees that are near all-inclusive, all for $179,900.

2020 Christian St APT B

Hello, color! Right next door to the previous listing, this studio is tiny, but packs a punch. And for $109,900, it might just be one of Center City’s best deals. Want to hear the coolest part? There’s a tiny, but adorable private courtyard!

1927 Christian St # A

…and one more on Christian Street. Another galley kitchen gets pop from turquoise chairs and gleaming stainless appliances, showcasing the best features of the space. This Grad Hospital 2/1 is listed for $209,900, and sports a common roof deck for gazing at splendid sunsets.