In recent weeks, we’ve covered efforts by developers who are taking a new interest in projects on the fringes of University City. 2.0 University Place is a large commercial building just north of 43rd & Market. Close by, a new HQ for the Social Security Administration is under construction. And Mantua should be getting a new supermarket, in the years to come. Today, we bring a rather large residential development to your attention.

Foundations

Behold, 4300 Wallace St. (or 624 N. 43rd St., whatever). We chanced upon this unexpected development in the Haverford North neighborhood when we made a wrong turn off Lancaster Avenue last week. It’s the foundations for 10 four- and five-bedroom homes that will have about 2000 sqft of living space and tax abatements. Other features include a first floor with open living and dining rooms and a kitchen, wood flooring throughout, and a modern kitchen with stainless steel appliances.

Ten home development

The land at the site has been razed and basements had been poured at a few lots when we saw the area last week. Pricing starts at $239K with July move-in dates available (which seems unlikely to us), from realtor Victoria Wilson of Century 21.

Closeup of the new homes

While this development is located in a less known Philly location, north of Market Street in West Philly, perhaps this is area could be the next big thing. It’s inexpensive, and full of potential. If Philly is going to attract top caliber students, workers, and artists across all fields in the decades to come, new developments like this in developing neighborhoods will be needed so that these folks can find a place to live. We’ll see what kind of interest buyers have in these new homes in the months to come.

–Lou Mancinelli