Around the Block: 3/14/25

March 17, 2025 BY JEFF CITY BLOCK

The Most Eclectic Week of the Year – Witty takes, can’t-miss Philly updates, insider info, and curated listings – by Jeff “City” Block

Blog Copy of JCB 3/14/25 | ATB

3/14/25

Witty takes, can't-miss Philly updates, insider info, and curated listings - by Jeff "City" Block

Hi readers — during this busy spring market, I thought this week I would provide an encore of a popular ATB I wrote at this time in 2023. Before we get to that, I want to say Ramadan Mubarak to all who celebrate.


The Most Eclectic

Week of the Year

Hey everyone,


It is now mid-March, which means an eclectic week that includes three very different days that we “celebrate” between March 14th and March 17th every year.

 

3.14 is Pi Day, where we can geek out over the popular mathematical constant (not to mention the favorite dessert of many. I love a fruit pie, especially cherry and peach).

 

I put the word “celebrate” in quotes because I’m not sure that festive sentiment applies to the Ides of March. I mean the warning “Beware the Ides of March,” (as Shakespeare famously wrote), simply does not convey that celebratory mood. Though I personally enjoy saying “Beware the Ides” this time of year, so perhaps that accounts for something. This 5-minute read is a fascinating article from Scientific American about Pi.

 

Meanwhile, there are many people who celebrate St. Patrick’s Day (perhaps a little too much, as can be viewed through the numerous pub crawls meandering throughout Center City). St. Patrick’s Day was my dad’s favorite holiday. And he was a Jewish guy who barely drank. But he loved the people-watching and celebratory spirit. Every year, he and a good friend would go to a bar, nurse one beer, and just talk and watch the revelers have fun. It was one of his things, and for those who knew him, certainly no surprise. Ironically, he passed away on 3/17/2008, 15 years ago today. Richard Raphael Block (b. 11/9/1938). May his memory be a blessing. (On my dad’s urn is the titular line from the classic Warren Zevon Song, “I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead.”)

 

Ok, so in writing this week’s piece, I looked up St. Patrick and learned some fascinating stuff. First, and I’m just the messenger here, St. Patrick was not Irish but rather British!!! But he did introduce Christianity to Ireland and incorporated his teachings with Irish culture, which is where he gets his legit cred. And while he is popularly thought to have driven the snakes out of Ireland, it turns out that Ireland never had any snakes in the first place.

 

Well, in any event, Erin Go Bragh!, Happy Pi Day, and Beware the Ides of March!

 

And just plain ol’ have a great weekend.

 

Cheers,

 

Jeff

1710-12 Locust St | Contact Agent
116 W Mt Pleasant Ave | $1,495,000
4518 Walnut St | $950,000
4712 Cedar Ave | $775,000 (PENDING)
4517 Springfield Ave | $695,000
4711 Chester Ave | $650,000 (PENDING)
1613 Green St #2 | $535,000
5923 Pulaski Ave | $465,000
5026 Florence Ave | $235,000

Spotlight Property

University City

4518 Walnut Street

8 BD | 3.5 BA | 4300 SF | $950,000

Get ready to fall in love with 4518 Walnut Street, a dazzling Victorian twin home that’s brimming with original character and charm! Built in 1925, this beautiful gem boasts 8 inviting bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms, and a convenient half bath, making it the perfect opportunity to own a slice of history in the coveted Penn Alexander School District—just steps away from all of the vibrant offerings that University City has to offer!


As you step through the door, you’ll be greeted by a delightful, well-maintained covered patio that sets the tone for the warmth that awaits inside. The interior is a masterpiece of elegance, featuring stunning hardwood floors, a grand staircase that commands attention, and a cozy fireplace that invites you to unwind. The spacious dining room seamlessly connects to a beautifully renovated kitchen, equipped with sleek stainless steel appliances, making it an entertainer's dream! And don't miss the bonus powder room and a generous backyard, perfect for gatherings and outdoor fun!


Venture to the second level and discover 3 expansive bedrooms paired with a stunningly renovated bathroom complete with both a relaxing shower and tub. The north-facing bedroom, complete with its own fireplace, is currently a cozy sleeping space but could effortlessly transform into a chic living room or parlor! Ascend to the third floor to uncover 3 more spacious bedrooms and another stylishly updated bathroom with a tub, all radiating with natural light and adorned with charming original woodwork. But that’s not all! A third staircase leads you to the owner's primary suite—a true sanctuary featuring two bedrooms, a stylish living room, a modern bathroom, its own brand-new kitchen, and a sun-soaked sunroom, perfect for remote work or relaxation! The basement is a treasure chest of potential, spanning the entire length of the house with ample storage options, a washer and dryer, and a convenient walkout that leads directly to your backyard.


4518 Walnut Street is bursting with possibilities, just waiting for its next owner to unlock its true potential! Don’t miss the chance to experience all the enchanting opportunities this remarkable home has to offer! Come see it today!

View Listing Details

Featured Listings

Rittenhouse Square - PENDING!

2042 Rittenhouse Square

4 BD | 3 BA | 2625 SF | $950,000

University City - NEW LISTING!

818 S 49th Street

5 BD | 3 BA | 2805 SF | $669,000

Rittenhouse Square - PENDING

1515 Locust Street # 301

2 BD | 2.5 BA | 1855 SF | $695,000

University City - PENDING!

835 South 49th Street

5 BD | 2 BA | 2754 SF | $629,000

Germantown- PENDING!

54 E Penn Street

3 BD | 2.5 BA | 2452 SF | $545,000

Spring Garden - BRAND NEW LISTING!

1613 Green Street, Unit 2

2 BD | 2 BA | 1246 SF | $535,000

University City

5040 Larchwood Avenue

3 BD | 2.5 BA | 1700 SF | $525,000

Center City West - Pending!

1811 Chestnut Street, # 501

2 BD | 2.5 BA | 1337 SF | $525,000

Cobbs Creek

6200 Ellsworth Street

4 BD | 2 BA | 3015 SF | $495,000

Graduate Hospital

2639 Bainbridge Street

3 BD | 1 BA | 1026 SF | $469,000

FOX CHASE

709 Chandler Street

3 BD | 2 BA | 1600 SF | $445,000

Germantown - PENDING

48 E Penn Street

2 BD | 2.5 BA | 1982 SF | $425,000


Graduate Hospital

1704 Webster Street

2 BD | 1 BA | 874 SF | $389,000

Brewerytown - SOLD!

3026 Baltz Street

2 BD | 2 BA | 960 SF | $247,500

Cobbs Creek - NEW LISTING!

5745 Addison Street

3 BD | 1 BA | 1140 SF | $210,000

Cobbs Creek - PENDING!

5759 Catharine Street

3 BD | 1.5 BA | 1122 SF | $200,000

Know Someone Looking to Buy or Sell?

As always, please know that I’m humbled by and appreciative of your introductions and referrals. If you have a friend, colleague, or family member that is in need of Expert Real Estate Representation, please have them contact me.


Be assured, I will do my best to exceed their expectations! Thanks for taking the time to read this issue of Around the Block.


GO BIRDS!! GO PHILS!!

Office: 267-435-8015
Compass RE is a licensed real estate broker. All material is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. No statement is made as to the accuracy of any description or measurements (including square footage). This is not intended to solicit property already listed. No financial or legal advice provided. Equal Housing Opportunity. Photos may be virtually staged or digitally enhanced and may not reflect actual property conditions.

Some imagery in this e-newsletter was sourced via visitphilly.com and Canva.

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