Outbid in Mount Airy, They Purchased a Historic Twin in West Philly
The Buyers
Kate Sheppard, 41, an editor, and Deen Freelon, 44, a communications professor, secured a home near the University of Pennsylvania with the help of a forgivable loan from Penn.
The House
The home is a 2,800-square-foot twin built in 1898, featuring four bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms.
It was initially listed for $720,000 and sold for $760,000.
The Agent
Their real estate agent was Scheryl W. Glanton from BHHS Fox & Roach.
The Decision to Move
Sheppard told Freelon that she would only live in Philadelphia apart from Durham, N.C. When Freelon accepted a job at the University of Pennsylvania in October 2023, they planned to move by summer 2024.
Until then, Freelon split his week between the city and home, meeting with their agent every Wednesday and touring homes chosen by Sheppard, whom Freelon called a “Redfin troll.”
“We would drive all over the place, checking various places out,” Freelon said.
Home Search Criteria
- At least four bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms, including a first-floor half bath.
- A kitchen suited for serious cooking.
- A basement with ceilings tall enough for Freelon’s 6-foot-4 frame.
- They were open to homes needing some work, as long as they could live there during renovations.
Ultimately, this historic West Philly twin met their needs and became their new home.
Author's Summary: With clear priorities and flexibility, this couple successfully bought a historic Philadelphia home near Penn, balancing family needs and work commitments.