Local Stories

Why is it that some homes sit on the market for a year while others sell like hot cakes? Frustrated sellers will blame a bad market, while a good real estate professional will tell you that many times, a slow sale is often attributed to the listing price.

If a home is overpriced, buyers will stay away. But, if the price is competitive with similar homes in the area and “shows” better than the competition, it will have a better chance of being sold quickly.
The secret is perfecting a technique that’s as American as apple pie: comparative shopping. Although comparing houses with different styles, square-footages and locations is challenging, real estate professionals still feel it’s one of the best methods to use when determining a home’s market value. A responsible real estate agent will effectively evaluate a home’s worth through a process known as Comparative Marketing Analysis (CMA). Taking a look at assets, such as a swimming pool, bigger than normal living spaces, a fantastic view, adjacent city parks and other attractions, the agent will begin to compare your home with similar properties, called “comparables” that have sold in the area within the last six months. Typically, the agent is able to recommend a realistic price range that will ensure you top dollar and a reasonably However, factors such as the amount of time needed to sell your home can alter the agent’s price recommendation dramatically. Typically, people should check with real estate offices in the community to determine the typical duration that listings are on the market. Sales associates will explain that the marketing “norms” vary with prices and properties. Based on these criteria, the agent feels confident that he or she will be able to sell it for a price that both you and the buyer will be happy with. However, if you’re under time constraints because of unexpected job changes or moving agreements you’ve made on another property, this will narrow your chances of selling the home for top dollar in the market.

Assuming you have sufficient time to market the home, here are a few small steps you and your agent can take to finding the right price for your property.

The best comparisons can be made with similar homes that have been sold within the last 45 days as opposed to the standard six months. Any longer and other factors, such as the economy, could cloud your view of how much your home is really worth.

Brian at Affordable Auto Service Center wanted us to let everybody know they can apply for payment plans same as cash when they need to get their car repaired. Arrangements can be made for three months, six months and twelve months, no interest. Call Brian at 610-534-9857 for the details or stop by 102 N. Academy Rd (behind Wal-Mart) in Glenolden.

Hahnemann University Hospital’s Center for Surgical Weight Loss will be hosting free seminars to help people understand the details of Bariatric surgery. The Educational Seminar dates include: Sat March 14th at 1pm, Wed March 18th at 6:30 pm, Sat March 28th at 1pm, Sat. April 11th 1pm, Wed April 15th 6:30pm, Sat April 25th 1pm, Wed May 6th 1pm, Sat May 16th 1pm and Sat may 30th 1pm. Call 1-866-884-4484 or visit there website at www.hahnemannhospital.com

C&E Heating Contractors has been in business for six years and is offering special prices on heating and air conditioning specials during the winter season. They carry a complete line of Tempstar, Heil, Rudd and Goodman equipment – don’t forget chimney liners, too. 610-789-7250

Hobby Town USA is moving to their brand new location in the Home Depot Plaza in April. As the world’s largest hobby store franchise they are a one stop shop for all your hobby needs. The new showroom will be fantastic and feature gas powered R.C. cars, planes, helicopters, trains, kites and a complete line of science items. 610-544-7007

Clyde’s Home Supplies, Inc. has all your building material needs plus great hardware and lawncare selections. From vinyl windows to custom doors, counter tops and kitchen cabinets, Clyde’s is the place to go for your home improvement needs. 610-789-4111

Special Occasions Inc. has everything you need for that once-in-a-lifetime event. Christening and First Communion clothes, wedding supplies, gifts, frames, decorations and monogramming are just a few of the items and services at this fantastic shop. 610-853-4438

Coyle Wholesale Jewelers pays the highest cash for your gold and diamonds. Bring in your silver, platinum and coins and get the best prices around. Shopping for someone special? Coyle’s has a large selection of the finest jewelry in the area. 610-566-8490

Barb’s Bathe Your Pet is the newest concept in pet grooming. The self-service pet wash gives you professional results at a fraction of the cost. One price includes everything you need to bathe your pet – and best of all, there’s no appointment necessary. Rather have them do it for you? Their dog grooming services are provided in a clean, open and friendly atmosphere where your dog is treated like family. 610-534-8180

Ramsey’s Service Center now has UHaul trucks for rent and is designed to make your family’s move the easiest yet. Car need service? Ramsey’s has tire rotation and repair services, state inspection and emission as well as wheel alignments and much, much more. 610-259-7268

Denis Isel Home Improvements offers free estimates and the fairest prices around on Kitchens and Baths, interior and exterior painting, siding, hardwood floors, ceramic tile and replacement windows. Isel’s does complete basement remodeling from start to finish, references available. 610-259-2941

Quality Brakes Auto Repair is a complete car care center that comes complete with free towing with any repair. Tune ups, brakes, exhaust systems, and motorcycle inspection are just a few of the many services offered in this family owned and operated station. 610-544-8810

Trainer Wholesale Inc. is the home of the original chicken fingers and crab cakes. But that’s not all – this open to the public wholesaler offers a complete selection of seafood, plus mozzarella sticks, jalapeno-poppers, hot wings, pepperoni sticks and meatballs. Visit them before your next big event and the savings will be huge! 610-494-3860

Del Chevrolet can help you with your credit crisis! Bad credit, no credit, divorce or bankruptcy won’t stop these fine folks from putting you in a quality vehicle. Get approved in minutes for their easy credit terms. 610-647-9440

Westbrook Market is your neighborhood market with a vast selection of lunchmeats, and fresh chicken cutlets or pork chops. If you’re a family looking for the best prices in town this is the place for you! 610-623-4021

Ridley Park Florist is a full service florist where you can go to get the perfect gift for any occasion. Everybody loves flowers and when better than this cold winter season to perk someone up with a gift of fresh blooms? Free consultations for your wedding or event. Call today to make an appointment 610-521-3366

EDIE’S CATERING AND WEDDING SERVICE started in our home in Sharon Hill in 1988 just to help get through tough times. But people liked our home cooking and so business grew. I love people, especially brides and love to help coordinate their event.

I love doing fund raisers because when my husband was ill with cancer my children planned a fundraiser which 800 people came to so I was able to try some alternative medicines to try to save his life. I never forgot the awesome generosity of people trying to help and so I try to give back in every possible way.

I am catering Faith Sinclair’s fundraiser on Feb. 8, 2009 at St. Gabe’s Church. Faith was killed by a hit and run driver in August. She was only sixteen.

Our food is still all homemade. Our salads all made with “Hellman’s” that is a must! We make 500-1000 meatballs at one time. People know the difference in homemade. Because I have five children and know the cost of things we try to work within all budgets.

We are planning a Bridal Show on March 15 at the Peter Magannis Banquet Hall at Folsom Fire Company, 4th and Sutton Avenues. Admission Free 2:00-6:00pm. 610-541-0959

Ridley Park Florist is your neighborhood florist. We have something for everyone this Valentine’s Day! Go on our website, www.ridleyparkflorist.com and see what we have – or better yet, come and visit us in the store. Gift baskets, roses, fresh flower designs, wide assortment of plush and so much more. 610-521-3366

East Cost Aquatics is a 3000 square foot retail store conveniently located at 734 Chester Pike in Prospect Park, PA offering a vast array of both fresh and salt water fish, corals, live rock, invertebrates, reptiles, plants, aquarium and pond supplies and equipment along with expert advice from a courteous, friendly and knowledgeable staff. But ECA is not just a fish store – it’s an experience. We have over 300 tanks holding more than 8000 gallons of water. Our main show tank is over 1000 gallons alone and we’ve just completed work on a 1300 gallon “showstopper” reef tank. The owners, Bill Soltner and Matt Fabel, are aquarium experts and personally designed and constructed the entire store system themselves. ECA offers expert maintenance services and custom installations from small home tanks to extravagant, corporate show tanks and all of our work is guaranteed! If you don’t see what you’re looking for just ask. We are always willing to find what you need and get it for you. ECA is dedicated to ensuring your hobby is a success. 484-494-6100

Gourmet Pastries, Cakes and Candy is the only bake shop in Ridley Park. Almost any snack can be made more desirable dipped in chocolate so indulge yourself with their Chocolate Covered Fruit Tray in Small, Medium or Large. Pastry trays are available and include mini cheesecake, tarts, éclairs, cream puffs, brownies and more. They have many varieties of cakes, assorted pies and many different kinds of cookies, all made on the premises. 610-521-0780

Healing Kneads Massage and Exercise Center located at the corner of Rt. 320 and Yale Ave. two blocks south of the College. We are celebrating our newly renovated facilities. Office Manager Christine said, “We are starting our fourth year located in Swarthmore”, formerly located in Secane. “Although we only moved next door”, she said, “we have doubled our space, going from three rooms to six. This has afforded us the opportunity to service customers who need a Massage today or to make an appointment for when they want to come in for their massage. Valentine’s Day is a busy time so we recommend making an appointment for your Valentine’s couples massage. We offer 1 hour Swedish Couples massage that is very soothing and relaxing. You may also choose a Deep Tissue Couples massage, too.” There are many different styles and techniques used for a massage, and every therapist has a different touch. Christine will schedule you with a therapist who is highly skilled for the service you have scheduled. You will find the atmosphere soothing, warm and comfortable, with 13 therapists on staff; they offer Swedish, Sports, Therapeutic, Deep Tissue, Hot Stones, Keiki, Shiatsu along with Body Wrap and Pregnancy Massage.

Christine said, “There’s nothing like a Hot Stone Face Massage using Natures Healing Stones applied to your face to stimulate facial tissue and helps skin regeneration or a Heaven for your Piggies with hot towels to soothe your achy feet, followed by a foot scrub that peels away the stress and finished with a luxurious massage that leaves you “Walking on Air”. A Couples Massage has been our fastest growing service. A Swedish Massage is done in a romantic atmosphere to relax and unwind together, choose 1 hour, 90 minutes or 2 hours of total relaxation. There is nothing like booking a date with your sweetheart for Couples Massage. One of our newest services is the Spa massage party for birthdays, family gatherings, office parties, bachelorette parties or even for fund raising. Open seven days a week, M-F 9-9, Sat. 9-6 and Sun 1-6 has made a difference, because many clients are working all week and the weekend is the only time they get a chance to relax. We are seeing a lot more people coming in to get Stress and Pain relief, “either with a massage or by signing up for our classes”. We have certified massage therapist and instructors on staff. We offer exercise programs as a class or you can have a session with our Personal Trainer. Our classes include Yoga, Pilates, Exercise Ball and Belly Dancing.” Our newest class is a big hit! Come in and join the fun at our Belly Dancing sessions. HealingKneads.net or 610-328-7000

Ridley Park Florist for proms, weddings, funerals, birthdays, special occasions, holidays, centerpieces and gifts. Free consultations for your wedding or event. They are a full service florist providing the perfect gift for every occasion. Come see their “New” giftware items and silk arrangement line and don’t forget to order early for Valentine’s Day Gift baskets, roses, fresh flower designs, wide assortment of plush and so much more. 610-521-3366.

The Mutt Hutt is every pet’s choice for bathing, styling, hand-scissored finishes and nail clipping. They also carry leashes, toys, treats and bones for your favorite companion. Visit them in Folsom Tuesdays through Saturdays from 9am to 5pm. Walk-ins welcome. 610-583-1138

Marietta Brass Quintet is available for weddings and other special occasions. Please call 610-328-9189. Giampino’s Cucina Italiana is one of the most romantic restaurants around and a great place to take that special someone for Valentine’s Day. Already have plans? Then stop by on Feb. 26th for Frank Sinatra Night from 6-9 pm. 610-853-9330.

Ray’s Tire and Automotive is moving to their new location – 1899 Delmar Drive and School Lane in Folcroft. Its only 2 blocks from his old spot, but Ray is excited and looking forward to owning this building – not just renting. Call 484-494-5110 and tell Ray Delco Mag sent you for a great deal!

In these days of tight budgets and unsure futures when all of us go out to buy something like a new T.V. we all want the Best Value for our Buck. I want to remind all the readers about Dougherty’s TV-Video located at 2190 Chester Pike, Norwood. Rich Dougherty and his staff have been selling, installing, repairing and servicing your equipment for over 30 years. He is second generation – his Dad opened in 1952. All the same people work there from your last visit and take special pride in dealing with the customers from beginning to install and service. Their ad says “We’ve got it all right here” along with coupons for new TV’s and service, but in our opinion what is should say is “We got it all Right”. So if you are going to spend your hard-earned buck, spend it here and get it right. 610-532-1500

Gambol’s Big G Café has been in business since 1949 and boasts the Best Crab Soup on the Planet. There’s something for everyone at Gambols with 3 Giant Screen TVs and a TV in each booth. You can play Wii or go downstairs to the gameroom for a round of pool or shuffle board. Check out their Valentine’s Day specials! 610-259-2702

Barb’s Bathe Your Pet offers full service Dog Grooming in a CLEAN, OPEN, FRIENDLY atmosphere where your pet is treated like family. Delco’s #1 Dog Grooming Shop also offers self-serve pet wash. Would you rather wash your own pet? You can bathe your dog and have fun too! Wouldn’t it be great if washing your dog were a fun experience instead of a chore? Imagine bathing your dog without breaking your back, no bathroom to clean and no wet dog running around rubbing wet dog smell into your rugs and furniture. Barb’s Bathe Your Pet has stainless steel tubs with comfort grates and tethers to keep your pet safe and secure. The tubs are equipped with ramps to alleviate lifting. Barb’s provides shampoo, wash clothes, chamois, towels and forced air dryers. Their motto is, “Leave the Mess to Us”. Don’t forget your loyal companions on Valentine’s Day. Barb’s Bathe Your Pet offers an extensive line of dog products including but not limited to leashes, collars, toys, treats, apparel and beds. Look for their special packaged Gourmet Valentines Treats – they offer quality products at an affordable price.

Tunie’s Floral Expressions can help you make Valentine’s Day special for someone with their Teleflora’s specials – 6 Red Roses, Heart and Soul, Sunny Smiles and Pink Reflections Bouquets are gorgeous and very reasonably priced. Come in and visit their showroom or order something over the phone and have it delivered to Philadelphia and the surrounding suburbs. 610-583-6142.

Hennessey’s Restaurant is proud to be the chosen caterer for Saint Joseph’s Church of Aston’s annual Monte Carlo Night - “Mardi Gras” on Saturday, Feb. 21st. Hennessey’s is the place for the perfect date, family dinner or party, rehearsals or weddings. Valentine’s Weekend Dance Parties on Friday and Saturday. 610-494-6611.

Southeast Archery is a great idea for Valentine’s Day. Get your loved one a Gift Certificate for Deer feeders, fresh and saltwater rods and reels, gun cleaning kits, gun and bow cases, knives and safes. Don’t forget tackle boxes and clothing, too. 610-583-1614.

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO PLAN A BEAUTIFUL WEDDING IS RIGHT HERE IN DELAWARE COUNTY Where to go and what to do to plan your wedding has never been easier. From jewelry, to flowers, caterers and halls everything you need is close by.

Plans for a wedding usually start with the gift of an engagement ring and of course, follows up with the purchase of wedding rings and gifts for the bridal party. Start out with a visit to Mitchel Robbins Jewelers in Broomall. Voted best of the Main Line they now have a new look and a new location at which you can view their large selection of Engagement rings, wedding bands and other gold, platinum, diamond and gem stone jewelry. 610-356-3170.

Voski Jewelers in Springfield and Milmont Park are open seven days a week for your convenience and in addition to having a huge selection, pay high prices for gold, diamonds, silver and coins. Consider them when purchasing for yourself or gifts for the bridal party. 610-544-0414 and 610-583-3022.

Flowers are a big part of any wedding and the best place to go for the freshest selection, most beautiful arrangements and great prices is Tunies Floral Expression in Folcroft. Tunie can help you design the perfect arrangements to enhance your wedding color scheme. 610-583-6142.

These days children can be a big part of any wedding and Angels Boutique for Children is a must visit for the finest in wedding apparel for girls and boys. Great prices on gorgeous clothes for everyday or special occasions. They are open Mon., Tue. and Thurs. from 10am to 5:30pm, Wed. and Fri. until 7pm and Sat. until 5pm. Come talk to their Wedding and Communion Specialist. 610-623-1727.

What’s a wedding without a great place to have your Shower, Rehearsal Dinner or Reception?

Giampino’s Cucina Italiana in Havertown is a superb choice for your dinner or catering needs. The romantic atmosphere is intimate and if you’re interested in taking advantage of their catering, the fine gourmet Italian cuisine can be purchased in party trays or full and half-pan sizes. 610-853-9330.

Charlotte’s on West Chester Pike in Newtown Square has private rooms for dinners and banquets which can accommodate 8 to 125 people and boasts the best seafood in Delco. 610-356-7100.

Rosario’s in Morton has 5 large banquet rooms which can hold 20-200 people. Parties start at $13.95 and weddings at $14.95 per person. They offer seafood dishes, pasta, chicken, meat, pizzas, appetizers and salad. 610-544-2744.

P&S Ravioli Co. sells family-size oven-ready entrees and individual microwaveable entrees made fresh daily. When watching the game or planning a party or small wedding call ahead for hoagies, lunchmeat, party trays, meatballs, roast beef and roast pork. Get a FREE pint of gravy with every pound of roast beef or pork purchased – and don’t forget about your side salads. Store is open from 9am-6pm Tuesday through Sat. and until 3pm on Sundays, closed Mondays. 610-446-9977.

Don’s in Boothwyn offers a take out buffet for a minimum of thirty people. Choose an appetizer, two entrees, one pasta, two sides and dessert all for $8.99 per person plus tax. Or get their roast beef special which includes 4 lbs. of roast beef, a quart of juice and 2 dozen rolls for $26. One week advance notice required, two preferred. 610-485-6442.

Mamma Maria Ristorante Italiano tempts you to come enjoy a taste of “Old World” Italy located in the heart of South Philly. Join them for lunch or dinner for private parties, cooking lessons and catering. 215-463-6884.

Old Original Nick’s Roast Beef on Rt. 420 in Springfield allows you to enjoy the best roast beef you’ll ever taste! Voted best roast beef 6 years in a row in the Delco Times and 2004 Best Sandwich in Phila. Magazine. Parties, private rooms available for birthdays, business meetings and functions of all kinds. Call ahead for take out for parties of any size. Only U.S.D.A. Prime beef. Roast pork, baked ham and roast turkey also available. Open Monday through Saturday 10am to 1:15am. 610-690-1112.

Trieste on Chester Pike in Prospect Park has banquet rooms available for up to 75 people. Lunch starts at $12.95 per person and Dinner at $14.95 per person. In addition their complete menu is available for take out. 610-534-8191.

Hennessy’s in Aston offers on and off premise catering and is the place for a perfect date, family dinner, parties, rehearsals or weddings from 50 to 150 people. 610-494-6611.

Sam and Sam Meats is a full line grocer and the one-stop shop for all your catering needs. Not only can you get lunchmeat by the pound, but they offer hot and cold party trays starting at $25.99 and side dishes by the pound. Twenty four hour notice required on all orders. 610-874-9484.

Looking for a specialty candy store for favors or desserts? Candy for Occasions on E. Hinckley in Ridley Park has gourmet pastries, cakes and candy. They are the only bake shop in Ridley Park and say almost any snack can be made more desirable dipped in chocolate. Offering chocolate covered fruit trays, and pastry trays which include mini cheese cake, tarts, éclairs, cream puffs, brownies and more. They have many varieties of cakes, assorted pies and many different kinds of cookies, all made on the premises. Open from 8am – 5pm on Tues, Wed., and Sat.; until 6pm on Thurs. and Fridays and 9am to 2pm on Sundays. 610-521-0780.

For your party supplies visit Partyland in the Stoney Creek Center on Baltimore Pike in Springfield. They’re open seven days a week and have party supplies and balloons for all occasions. 610-328-4750.

Looking for safe, affordable way to get to and from your Bachelor or Bachelorette party? Aidans Limousines offers professional and courteous service and can tailor that service based on your needs and budget. Take a trip to Atlantic City, New York City, Baltimore Harbor or wherever you book your wedding or reception. 1-888-824-3267.

The best way to get to your wedding and reception is by chauffeured limosine. Who better to provide that service than Siderio’s Limousine Service? Siderio’s offers stretch limousines and Lincoln Town Cars for all occasions. Weddings, proms, bachelor/bachelorette parties, casinos, corporate travel and airport service. Credit cards accepted. 484-259-6021.

Need a church or chapel in which to have your wedding? Christ Lutheran Community Church on Walnut St. in Upper Darby is a beautiful English Gothic Church with traditional stained glass windows, magnificent pipe organ and seating for up to 250 people. Pastor David is also available for other locations. Wedding coordinator and organist on staff. Come see what they have to offer for your special day. For info call 610-352-1610.

Fresh Anointing Christian Center on Garrett Rd. in Upper Darby is “where a fresh word is given in a fresh way with fresh anointing”. Sunday service starts at 10:15am and the Prayer Room is open Monday through Friday from 10am-6pm. Visit them during Tuesday Intercessory Prayer or on Wednesdays for Night Bible Study or Teen Bible study and fun all starting at 7pm. 610-352-3200.

Looking for a gift for the bridal party or for the bride and groom? McKenna’s Irish Shop on Darby Rd. in Havertown has a large selection of Belleek China, Galway Crystal and Mullingar Pewter. Hand Knit clothing plus silver and gold jewelry make this the perfect place to search for that special something. 610-853-2202.

Of course part of preparing for your wedding day is taking steps to look as good as possible. Many brides and grooms start with weight control. Visit Physicians Weight Control’s PA offices in Media, Bristol, King of Prussia, Royersford, Allentown and Lansdale for safe, effective FDA-approved medications. Dr. William J. Strowhouer, Medical Director will oversee your program. Visit them on the web at www.physiciansweightcontrol.com or call 1-800-PWC-3161.

Dieting and weight control should be accompanied by an exercise program for best results. Focused Intense Training on Chestnut St. in Phila. has free classes for Abs, Step, Spinning and Pilates as well as Boxing and MMA classes. With over 100 years of combined experience their staff is number 1. 215-386-3333.

When the stress of wedding planning gets you down go to Broomall Total Health in Broomall and visit Dr. Marc Belitsky Clinical Director and Chiropractor for a screening and treatment. Live pain-free – eliminate back and neck pain as well as headaches. 610-353-2221.

Need some extra stress and pain relief? Healing Kneads in Swarthmore offers Therapeutic, sports, deep tissue, Reiki, Swedish and Hot stone massages plus body wraps and couples massages. Also available are belly dancing, yoga, Pilates, exercise ball and cardio classes. 610-328-7000.

Of course, once that special day arrives you want your hair and makeup to look its best. Chrissy and Company is a salon for men, women and children and is located in Brookhaven. Call them for everything from a cut to highlights at 610-876-5610. Visit J.W.’s HOTHEADS in Folcroft for a perm, highlights, color, cuts or barber cuts for the entire family. 610-586-3144. At Maria Taggart’s Hair Salon in Folsom you can get that special up-do or full body waxings in preparation for that special day. Corrective coloring also available. 610-522-5521. Joe Marino’s Better Little Hair House on MacDade Blvd. in Milmont Park is the place to go to experience old school barbering in a modern day salon. Scissor cuts, razor, neck shaves, straight razor shaves cater to the gentlemen as well as designs, coloring, foils, high and low lights, facials and waxing for the ladies. 610-461-7655.

Need a pair of contacts or new glasses? Eagle Opticians ensures quality, value and satisfaction. Have an eye exam and fill your prescription there, or bring in a scrip from another doctor and they’ll fill that too. Going someplace sunny for your honeymoon? They now carry Oakley Sportswear and Sunwear – protection for the eyes for all ages. 610-566-4829.

Looking for a great place that’s close by for your honeymoon? Call Pocono Resorts Realty in Lake Harmony and ask about their Stay and Play Packages. Rental homes in lake, pool, golf and ski communities available. 1-800-444-3721 or 1-800-796-4350.