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Philadelphia County, PA Real Estate News

By Hannah Williams, Expertise NE Philadelphia & Bucks 215-820-3376
(HomeStarr Realty)
pototo soup    Creamy Chunky Potato Soup   Serves: 4–6  Prep time: 45 min   Cook time: 60–90 min Ingredients 6–7 medium potatoes, peeled and diced 2 celery stalks, diced 1 onion, chopped 2 carrots, diced 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color) 3–4 mushrooms, sliced 2–3 cloves garlic, minced 2 cups milk (whole or 2%) ½–1 cup cheese, shredded (cheddar or similar) ¼ cup sour cream 1/2 a stick of  butter or a bit of oil Salt and black pepper, to taste Optional: a pinch of thyme, parsley, or paprika, if you have any Instructions 🧈 Sauté the vegetables: In a large pot, melt the butter (or use oil). Add onions, celery, carrots, peppers, and mushrooms. Cook until softened (about 5–7 minutes). Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute. 🥔 Add potatoes and simmer: Add the diced potatoes and enou...
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By Hannah Williams, Expertise NE Philadelphia & Bucks 215-820-3376
(HomeStarr Realty)
Hello, everyone! My name is Hannah Williams, and I am a Real Estate Professional in Northeast Philadelphia, Bucks County, and Montgomery County, PA. Today, I want to share my exciting goals for 2026 and how I plan to use Active Rain to make them happen! By the way, I am also known as HelpfulHannah.  Looking back at 2025, I have experienced so much. I helped many families find their dream homes over the years. I celebrated their happiness with them. I also faced some challenges, but I learned that every obstacle is an opportunity to grow! I feel grateful for all the wonderful clients I met and the friendships I built along the way.  Now, I want 2026 to be a year of renewal! My main goal this year is to become the best Real Estate Professional I can be. I want to help even more families s...
Comments 17
By Hannah Williams, Expertise NE Philadelphia & Bucks 215-820-3376
(HomeStarr Realty)
 How to Make Black Bean Soup when it is chilly in Philly It is cold here on the East Coast, and a perfect time to make soupLast week, I made a delicious sausage soup, which is out of this world, but I just found an old recipe that I have not made in many years, so I thought I would share the Black Bean Soup Recipe first, as the Sausage soup is in my head Black beans, carrots, celery, a large onion, and seasonings are simmered into this hearty soup. Bring out the delicious flavors with a splash of lime juice and a spoonful of yogurt, if desired, at serving, but it is not necessary  Ingredients 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 large onion, diced 1 carrot diced  2 stalks celery, diced 3 cloves garlic, minced 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional) 1 can (14–15 oz) diced tomat...
Comments 17
By Hannah Williams, Expertise NE Philadelphia & Bucks 215-820-3376
(HomeStarr Realty)
This week's AI homework was to create a Zoom background that's more personalized to who we are personally. I was confused because I was not sure how on earth I would add the picture to our Zoom profile. It seemed everyone else was thrilled with this assignment, and I was stressed to the max. Kat Palmiotti Was kind enough to simplify the process for me. She walked me through it until I understood.  Kathy Streib Explained that I first needed to make the picture before I could insert it, as she also understood my confusion, but now I understoodUsing  Gemini, my friend, I asked him to help me create a Zoom background that best represents me. Quickly, I was switched to Nano Banano, and this is what I received.The picture is excellent for the second try. Actually, the first try had a typewrit...
Comments 19
By Hannah Williams, Expertise NE Philadelphia & Bucks 215-820-3376
(HomeStarr Realty)
HelpfulHannah: 40 Years of Real Estate — Ready for the Roast! 🎤After four decades in Philadelphia Real Estate, Hannah Williams has seen it all, sold it all, and probably knows most of you! She has been helping families buy and sell homes since 1985. That's right, since before the internet, before cell phones, and before the Eagles won their first Super Bowl (oops, too soon?).Lately, I've been thinking about the ultimate career milestone: a Comedy Central-style roast for her!That's right, it is about time, so let's get started You know you've been around a while when the jokes write themselves. Here are a few things I'm sure her "roasters" would bring up: Her Fashion Sense: "Helpfulhannah's closing outfits are so classic, they've been in style three times since she started selling houses...
Comments 25
By Hannah Williams, Expertise NE Philadelphia & Bucks 215-820-3376
(HomeStarr Realty)
I learned so much from our Zoom meeting last week. I may have skipped a beat, but I did get some valuable insights on leveraging AI in my daily workflow. Instead of pasting a link, I clicked the star-shaped icon at the top of my browser to start a conversation with Gemini. I then asked it to prepare a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) for a specific property and provided the necessary information.Gemini's initial suggestion was to check the standard sources like Bright or the MLS. However, I suggested a more direct route: Notebook Access. “Good idea,” it replied, and on we went. This interaction showed me how the AI can adapt to my preferred tools, turning the CMA prep into a collaborative process. We were able to quickly pull some excellent comps.The actual test came when I noticed a c...
Comments 20
By Hannah Williams, Expertise NE Philadelphia & Bucks 215-820-3376
(HomeStarr Realty)
Last week, we enjoyed an excellent painting class hosted by resident and teacher Sharon Kulik at the Delaire Landing Clubhouse. For just $30—including all supplies—it was the perfect opportunity for beginners and seasoned painters alike to tap into their creative side.A Scenic River on CanvasOur project for the day was a peaceful river scene, inspired by both Sharon’s reference painting and the beautiful view right outside the Clubhouse window. Sharon guided us step by step as we built our horizons with layers of yellows, oranges, whites, then blues and reds.From there, our canvases came to life with clouds, trees, fencing, a lantern, rippling water, and the river’s horizon. Some participants added playful touches of their own—like seagulls and small boats—making each painting truly one...
Comments 20
By Hannah Williams, Expertise NE Philadelphia & Bucks 215-820-3376
(HomeStarr Realty)
This week's Zoom meeting was super fantastic. I enjoyed it tremendously. It started with a bit of confusion because the link wasn't working correctly, but after hours of hard work behind the curtain, Kathy Streib  and Carol Williams  corrected it and notified us. It added a little spice to the afternoon for us, but it was stressful for Kathy and Carol to create a new link . So next week, look to Q&A for the link.   It is always nice to discuss how we did or didn't do our homework. My problem was not Grok, but converting it to a video. It seemed I was not the only one who had this problem, so I was not embarrassed. Therefore, I am hoping that someone will make a how-to video on the conversion, as I am totally at a loss on how to do it. Perhaps they will show us how to make a GIF from Gro...
Comments 20
By Hannah Williams, Expertise NE Philadelphia & Bucks 215-820-3376
(HomeStarr Realty)
Let's discuss Delaire Landing Condo, a gated waterfront community. On a nice day, you will see many smiling faces walking around. Some residents will be sitting on the deck watching the boats go by, while others will get their exercise by walking the property. Delaire Landing is very picturesque, especially by the river.  So much to do in this beautiful gated waterfront condo community. How lucky are the residents to have 24/7 security with a guard on duty at the gatehouse? Delaire Landing Condo, a gated waterfront community, also has a clubhouse with a gym, library, many social activities, trips, and clubs. There are also two outdoor pools open during the summer months, offering views of the river.  Right now, Tickets are being sold for our New Year's Party with a Live Band. Let's talk...
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By Hannah Williams, Expertise NE Philadelphia & Bucks 215-820-3376
(HomeStarr Realty)
Here are some surprises this week: more Steals than Deals I was made aware of the money I was spending and throwing away. In fact, it was most likely slowly making me sick as well as wasting my money. I have a feeling many of you will be as shocked as I was. Let's talk about bottled water and how safe they are Let's start with these Brands Poland Springs (there is no such Spring; it dried up years ago, and they are in a legal battle). Starky Mineral Spring Water -  Whole Foods: arsenic found Dasani - Coca-Cola - adds magnesium, potassium, and high levels of nano Plastics Deer Park -Use of Forever chemicals, PHFA found (no lawsuit as of yet)FUGI - arsenic and microplastics Sam's Choice - Eight chemicals were found in this water; THM is considered a high Health risk. Topo Chica Mineral Wa...
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By Hannah Williams, Expertise NE Philadelphia & Bucks 215-820-3376
(HomeStarr Realty)
The Glen Foerd Mansion is within walking distance of my community. It is located on Grant and State Rd 5001, Grant Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19114. It is located along the Delaware River in Northeast Philadelphia, on 18 acres, and is open to the public.A visit to the public gardens of the Philadelphia region is an opportunity to stroll through the history of American horticulture when William Penn first arrived on its eastern shores to lay claim to the hardwood forests of what he named Pennsylvania, or Penn’s Woods.Although a handful of Europeans had already established a presence in this lush land that had long been home to the Lenni Lenape Indians, many of the new settlers were Quakers, like Penn, who established a home and large garden at Pennsury Manor on the Delaware River. The Quakers...
Comments 14
By Hannah Williams, Expertise NE Philadelphia & Bucks 215-820-3376
(HomeStarr Realty)
Ms Anna Banana asked us to share a recipe on the weekends. While surfing the web, I came across some fantastic recipes that I am going to try. This one, however, looked very decadent, and I am now following the lady who presented it. She shares the recipes and makes it look like so much fun. I do enjoy cooking, and now that the weather is getting cooler in my area, I will be cooking more often. I like the fact that all the ingredients are natural. Even if you are consuming sugar and eating right, it is okay to indulge in something sweet and delicious as long as you do so in moderation. My problem was that when I baked, I would take a small piece and keep coming back for more until I ate the entire cake or pie. We must learn to eat in moderation, regardless of the foods we consume, to st...
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By Hannah Williams, Expertise NE Philadelphia & Bucks 215-820-3376
(HomeStarr Realty)
Philadelphia Steals and Deals Competent Driver Off 5th Eye Brightener Did you know that you can take a Smart Driving Course with AARP and get a discount on your driving insurance for older drivers? That is right, AAPP offers the first Driver's Safety National refresher course. To see if you qualify and for more information, go to aarp.org/drive I took two classes, and now I have to send my certificate to State Farm Insurance to get my discount. I just talked to my  State Farm Insurance agent, and I am going to email them a copy, and they will handle it from there.  Suddenly, I had this impulse to stop what I was doing and go shopping. I found myself in the car going to OFF Fifth Saks Outlet at Philadelphia Mills, to be honest, I thought I was a little crazy. I walked over to the sneaker...
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By Hannah Williams, Expertise NE Philadelphia & Bucks 215-820-3376
(HomeStarr Realty)
It is time for Steals and Deals this week. I hope you find it helpful and interesting.  Great Buy at TJ Maxx: Kurt Geiger Stud Earrings. They were all marked $24.99, but one pair was marked $19.99, and the saleslady gave them to me for that price. These earrings sell for $68.99, and I have a belt with a matching eagle head, making them a Steal of a Deal and a very unexpected find. Needless to say, I was thrilled.  Amazon Prime Day - I found better deals a week before, and I was disappointed. I have purchased Amazon Presto pods for those who use dishwasher pods. In my opinion, Amazon Presto pods check out better than the name brands, and I got a fantastic deal on them. $8.99 for 70 pods - name brands are twice the price, if not more. For those who have not paid attention to me in my doct...
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By Hannah Williams, Expertise NE Philadelphia & Bucks 215-820-3376
(HomeStarr Realty)
Connections we make in Real Estate. I am a member of a nationwide blogging community called Active Rain. Have you heard of it? We discuss Real Estate all across the Country.This month, we were asked to write about people we have connected with. Last year, one of our members from Arizona Brian England  was visiting the Philadelphia area and wanted to know if I was available for a meet-up on November 1 for lunch. He was calling a few others in the area. I was excited to meet him, and I knew the others in the region would also love to meet him. I replied, 'Yes, unless it snowed,' of course, and they all laughed at me. He picked the time and place. Nick the Brit and I talked about meet-ups before, but in our area, no one usually shows up, so we were both thrilled that Brian managed to get p...
Comments 16
By Hannah Williams, Expertise NE Philadelphia & Bucks 215-820-3376
(HomeStarr Realty)
Who do you know and connect with? When I first started Active Rain back in 2008, I would see this guy always writing about where he lived. He would write and post these beautiful pictures and talk about the Real Estate in his area. I was just a reader, but he intrigued me. I always read what he posted. He was also a member of the gray wolves, another blogging group. He called himself the Relocation Dude. Have you guessed who he is yet? He lived in the suburbs of Philly and moved to Boston, or was it Massachusetts? Then he settled in sunny Southern California.  I started blogging and was grandfathered into Active Rain. Of course, I followed this dude, and he followed me! I also remember when his mom relocated from the East Coast to the West Coast. We were starting to become friends.We ac...
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By Hannah Williams, Expertise NE Philadelphia & Bucks 215-820-3376
(HomeStarr Realty)
This story is going to sound like a commercial for State Farm Insurance. Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there. The other night, I was relaxing in bed, watching TV, and Cleo, my Siamese cat, started alarmingly jumping on me. I sensed there was something wrong, so I got up and water was pouring out of my light fixtures in my hallway, Bathroom, and DR I immediately realized it was coming from my upstairs neighbors.  I ran up the stairs and banged on his door. There was no answer. I rang his doorbell. There was no answer. I called him on his phone. There was no answer. His car was there, so I knew he was home. I live in a gated community, so I called the gatehouse to request that maintenance shut off the water. Now a bubble was forming in my DR ceiling, and I knew it would soon burst a...
Comments 25
By Hannah Williams, Expertise NE Philadelphia & Bucks 215-820-3376
(HomeStarr Realty)
 This post takes me back. I worked with a fellow when I first started in Real Estate. When I left the small appraisal office where we received excellent training, I was ready to work in a high-powered office. He said he was too. I stayed at this company for many years, but he pursued his passion for music a few years later.Later, he came to see me and expressed interest in buying a home. He was divorced, but his daughter had a child and was unmarried. He wanted a large row home where he could live in the lower level and she and the Grandson could live upstairs, allowing them to share the kitchen. Perhaps they could even find a duplex with separate living quarters. His mom had passed away, and she left him some money; his daughter had a good job, and he had a steady job playing music. It...
Comments 30
By Hannah Williams, Expertise NE Philadelphia & Bucks 215-820-3376
(HomeStarr Realty)
There have been many clients who have touched my heart, but the most memorable was when I received a phone call from a lady saying she was from the Home Team and was coming into town to find a house for a TV show, and would I be available to help her. I said, of course, she told me what she was looking for and would be in on Friday. She called me when she landed in Philadelphia from Washington state, and we started looking on Saturday.We hit it off right away, and by Sunday evening, we had found two places: one was an older twin home, and the other was a second-floor contemporary condo. She notified her crew and sent pictures, and the choice was made. The condo was chosen for its location, which was ideal for filming. You may remember my posts on Rivers Bend.Over dinner, we discussed th...
Comments 36
By Hannah Williams, Expertise NE Philadelphia & Bucks 215-820-3376
(HomeStarr Realty)
Let's discuss what happened in July at Delaire Landing Community.  It started as a rainy summer, especially on the weekends. The weather did change, and it turned into a beautiful summer. The 4th of July Potluck would not be deterred; it would take place rain or shine. That it did, and it was a success.There was also the evening pool party hosted by our resident DJ, MIKE. Dancing and bringing your food was a splashing event enjoyed by all who attended   Joyce hosted a new event, a Food truck event, and although it rained, it was not a washout; it was fantastic!   We are hoping she will organize another one soon.   On Sundays, our resident Ice Cream Truck, Scoop-affles, has fantastic flavors ofice cream and water ice. If you are sitting by the pool on a hot day, you're thankful to see th...
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