First-Time Find: So You Want To Live in Chestnut Hill?

7814 Devon St., Philadelphia, Pa. 19119 | TREND Images via BHHS Fox & Roach

Chestnut Hill’s fans and defenders take great pains to point out that the neighborhood doesn’t really deserve its reputation as Pennsylvania’s answer to Greenwich, Conn. They point to the social-reformist impulses of one of its primary developers, George Woodward, and note that there’s actually a wide range of fine homes at various price points available in the neighborhood.

Critics scoff. Then a resident comes along to drop evidence in our lap.

The evidence is this handsome updated 1920s rowhome on Devon Street at the base of the hill. Located on a quiet residential street not far from Cresheim Valley Drive, this end-of-row unit boasts many features you’ll find on homes listing for much more than this one does.

The main floor’s polished hardwood floors sparkle with a high gloss, and a large archway between the living and dining rooms gives the floor an open-plan feel. That feel is enhanced by the kitchen off the dining room, which features a granite-topped breakfast bar, new cherry wood cabinets, recessed lighting and modern stainless steel appliances.

Upstairs, you’ll find three bedrooms with ample closet space, including a spacious and sunny master bedroom, and a bathroom with modern tile walls and a traditional tile floor.

Downstairs, there’s a finished basement that makes a great space for recreation, relaxation and entertainment. You’ll enjoy inviting your friends over for indoor-outdoor parties that take advantage of both the spacious rec room and the landscaped patio out back, accessed by a large sliding door. The laundry room is also on this level.

One of the other great things about this charmer of a rowhome is its location. The bottom of the Hill is convenient to both the happening scene on “the Avenue” at the top of the hill, with its mix of chic boutiques and great eateries, and the more eclectic vibe of the business district atop the next hill to the south, in Mount Airy. Wyndmoor Regional Rail station on the SEPTA Chestnut Hill East line is also close by for a quick commute into Center City should you either work there or feel the need to venture beyond the bosky precincts of Chestnut Hill every once in a while.

THE FINE PRINT

BEDS: 3

BATHS: 1 full, 1 half

SQUARE FEET: 960

SALE PRICE: $299,000

OTHER STUFF: Ceiling fans throughout help cut your energy bills, and there’s also parking for one car in a driveway accessed by a shared alleyway in the back.

7814 Devon St., Philadelphia, Pa. 19119 [Michael Sivel | The Sivel Group | BHHS Fox & Roach]