Every year, Redfin predicts the neighborhoods that will be the most popular in the next year for 27 metro areas, including Philadelphia. We covered 2013's predictions, which included Phoenixville, Brewerytown, and West Germantown. Redfin says 2015 will be all about compromise between affordability and convenience. The list is created from looking at the the number of page views and favorites on Redfin, the prevalence of hot homes in the area, and insights from local real estate agents. First, they choose the 10 hottest neighborhoods across the nation as well as the five most up and coming areas in each of the 27 metros. In Philadelphia, our highest rated neighborhood was actually ranked second in the nation.
And that neighborhood is...Dickinson Narrows.
1. This South Philly neighborhood offers many of the amenities of living downtown but in a more affordable package. Unlike many of the other neighborhoods in this area, parking is ample in Dickinson Narrows. Additionally, its proximity to I-95 and public transit makes it simple to commute.
“Compared to its nearby counterparts Pennsport and East Passyunk Crossing, Dickinson Narrows offers an affordable option to Philly homebuyers looking for the amenities of downtown living. It’s also located in South Philly, which is becoming a hotspot for first-time homebuyers and suburban relocators. Dickinson Narrows has its own enclave of popular restaurants and bars and it’s surrounded by scenic parks and playgrounds. Housing in the area consists of new construction, rehabbed housing and older homes available for around $235,000..." - Blakely Minton, Redfin Agent
2. Northern Liberties, also known as NoLibs, is a trendy neighborhood located just north of Center City. It also made the list in 2013, so it's experienced a prolonged "up and coming" description. It's a popular spot for young professionals and artists -- some call it a hipster's paradise. Lately, some of the city's best bars and restaurants have made Northern Liberties home. The transition has inspired similar change in surrounding neighborhoods, as well.
3. Girard Estate is an L-shaped historic district in South Philadelphia created with entrepreneur Stephen Girard's $6 million will left to the City of Philadelphia. There are only 422 homes in the entire district, and it's not often that as many are available to buy as there are today. Many consider Girard Estate a suburb in South Philly -- complete with green space and homes of varied styles.
4. Fairmount Park, just walking distance from Philly's famous art museum, is appealing to many young families looking to be near Center City but still in a distinctive, quiet neighborhood. Fairmount Park creates the perfect medium in equal proximity to urban life and lush green parks.
5. Kensington is the neighborhood adjacent to Fishtown, expected to make a similar transformation. Previously vacant lots are being transformed into urban gardens, new and modern restaurants are opening, and economic development is leading to new rentals and homes for sale.
Now that you've learned about some emerging Philly neighborhoods, be sure to check out available properties.
