Jeannie Kontis is a member of the award winning real estate team of the Bob Wells Realty Group of Long & Foster real estate in Lancaster County, PA. A seasoned professional, Jeannie writes of Lancaster real estate news, opinions and trends throughout the county, for both Buyers and Sellers of Lancaster real estate. View Lancaster Homes for Sale at: www.JeannieSellsLancaster.com . View additional information at www.LivingLancaster.com . Contact Jeannie Kontis directly for your Lancaster Real Estate needs at 717-330-5137.
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Jeannie Kontis, Realtor 717-330-5137
Moving to Lancaster - even people from Lancaster do it! by Jeannie Kontis, Lancaster Realtor

Caffeine depraved - but still a successful first-time buyer settlement

I am not a morning person, and most people who know me well enough know that about me.  I admit that morning settlements are not my favorite ones because I can never seem to have enough coffee in me yet to feel like I am starting my day off on the right foot (and it takes *a lot* of coffee for me to get started!).

But, this morning's settlement went smoothly even though I was only running on one cup of coffee - (I made up for it later with a grande Misto from the Starbucks across the street!).  There were a few last minute heart attacks the evening before as the lender needed one more document that it turns out they had since December.  Emergency handled, we were all set for the early morning settlement.

What makes it even more special is the fact that this was the settlement for young couple who are first-time buyers.  I've known the young man since he was in elementary school when my son and his little sister became friends in kindergarten.  Years later, our paths crossed again and I had the opportunity to meet his then girlfriend (now fiancee) as they finished up their college degrees and pursued their goals. 

Settlements are always satisfying - especially when they go well!  Having settlements with first-time buyers tops even the best settlements.  But, having a settlement with a first time buyer who I've practically watched grow up is especially satisfying. 

Perhaps due to the lack of caffeine in my system, I had time to be settled and reflect on something.  Today only proved to me something that I already knew -- how great our community is here in Lancaster.  This is a young man who grew up in Lancaster, chose to go to college in Lancaster, and is giving back by working and teaching in the local community.  That alone speaks volumes for the allure of Lancaster County, no matter if you are a first-time buyer, a move-up buyer or someone ready to downsize and retire in Lancaster.

 

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For more information on Lancaster PA Real Estate, or questions
about buying or selling Real Estate in Lancaster County PA,
please contact
Jeannie Kontis at (717) 330-5137
or email at Jeannie@JeannieSellsLancaster.com.

Search for Lancaster Homes for Sale at    www.JeannieSellsLancaster.com

Jeannie Kontis, RealtorⓇ, is a member of the award-winning Bob Wells Realty Group of Long & Foster Lancaster Real Estate, Inc, and serves buyers and sellers of real estate throughout Lancaster County.
All content Copyright ⓒ 2009 Jeannie Kontis    Homes in Lancaster PA - Real Estate in Lancaster County

 

Growth in Manheim Township real estate, by Jeannie Kontis, your Lancaster PA Realtor

By the end of the year, folks driving to the Lancaster Airport might be saying:

"Look, it's a bird!   It's a plane!   No... its the new Garber Scale and Calibration building!" 

Manheim Township commissioners this week approved plans for the new $3.5 million multi-use facility that Garber Scale plans on building on Airport Road. 

Why is this a big deal? 

It shows that forward-thinking businesses are still pushing ahead in this economy. 
It also is a great example of how new construction, even in commercial and industrial zones such as this, can be environmentally friendly while taking advantage of the best use of land.

Garber Scale's new facility will include environmentally-friendly features such as:

 

  • geothermal heating,
  • waterless urinals (not really sure how that works!)
  • a white roof and
  • office space filled with natural light,
  • as well as additional other green features.


A portion of the building will include self-storage facilities for rent, as well as additional office space for lease. 

Employees will enjoy the roof-top views from the verandas, a perfect spot to watch the take-offs and landings from the nearby airport, or can use the employee exercise room and lounge. 

While other firms are looking at layoffs and are closing facilities, it's exciting to see a local company include environmentally friendly features as they grown their business outlook. 

 
Downsizing your business? Consider this Office or Retail space for lease by Jeannie Kontis, Realtor

Lebanon County - Office, Commercial, Retail -- Space for Lease, Security, On Site Parking

Commercial Office/Retail Space for Lease - Busy Intersection, High Visibility, Signage

546 S Ninth Street (on Rte 72) -- LEBANON COUNTY
Square Footage: approx. 600 SF each -- 2 spaces available
$575 each, or both for $1,000 monthly
Available:  Immediately

Commercial Office/Retail space for lease in a highly visible location. Corner of Rte 72 at a 5-way intersection, across from Quality Inn at the gateway to Lebanon City.

2 Spaces each almost 600 SF, security system, shared vestibule. Take one or take both. Each space is $575; or use both for your growing business for a discounted rate of $1,000 per month.

Building is a mix of residential and office/commercial. Other businesses include a Bank and a Real Estate Office.   Ideal location for a title company, insurance, medical, etc.

On-site parking; no CAM fee; rent includes water/sewer/trash/snow/mow

Contact:
Jeannie Kontis, Long & Foster RE
717-330-5137






For more information on Lancaster PA Real Estate, or questions
about buying or selling Real Estate in Lancaster County PA,
please contact
Jeannie Kontis at (717) 330-5137
or email at Jeannie@JeannieSellsLancaster.com.

Search for Lancaster Homes for Sale at    www.JeannieSellsLancaster.com

Jeannie Kontis, RealtorⓇ, is a member of the award-winning Bob Wells Realty Group of Long & Foster Lancaster Real Estate, Inc, and serves buyers and sellers of real estate throughout Lancaster County.
All content Copyright ⓒ 2009 Jeannie Kontis    Homes in Lancaster PA - Real Estate in Lancaster County

 
Recovery Plan and Tax Credits - What it means for Lancaster Home Buyers and Sellers by Jeannie Kontis, Realtor

Tax Credits - Energy Credits and KOZ Business Credits for Pennsylvania

I received a very informative newsletter from my accountant's office today, and I thought I would pick out a few highlights of the AMERICAN RECOVERY AND REINVESTMENT ACT OF 2009  a.k.a - the Bail Out.

Personally, I was a bit surprised and I have to admit, impressed, with some of the credits that have been increased or extended for both, individuals and businesses.

Here are a few of the highlights that are beneficial (hopefully) to current and future homeowners:


First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit


The First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit increases to a maximum of $8,000, eliminating any payback after living in the home 36 months. This will apply to first-time homebuyer purchases of a principal residence from January 1, 2009 through December 31, 2009.

The credit begins to phase-out when AGI exceeds $75,000 ($150,000 for joint filers).

This applies only to homes purchased after December 31, 2008.  Homes purchased earlier than 2009 will be governed by the original first-time homebuyer credit with full payback with a maximum credit of $7,500.

Residential Energy Property Credit - This is great for those looking to improve their current homes, or for those who are purchasing a bit of a fixer-upper:

The agreement increases the residential energy property tax credit from 10% to 30%, and raises the maximum cap to an aggregate of $1,500 for installations during 2009 and 2010. If you made qualifying improvement in 2009 - keep track of this!

Eligible improvements include

 

  • insulation,
  • exterior windows and doors,
  • central air conditioners,
  • natural gas, propane or oil water heaters or furnaces,
  • hot water boilers,
  • electric heat pumps & water heaters,
  • metal roofs,
  • and advanced main air circulating fans. 

Pre-2008 credits are not counted toward the $1,500 maximum.


Residential Energy Efficient Property Credit - GO GREEN, IT PAYS OFF!


The credit cap is removed for residential energy efficient solar hot water property, geothermal heat pumps, and wind energy property!

FOR BUSINESSES WHO ARE LOOKING TO EXPAND AND BUILD NEW OPERATIONS - CONSIDER A "KOZ":

SALES AND USE TAX EXEMPTION FOR KEYSTONE OPPORTUNITY ZONE BUSINESSES

Pennsylvania has expanded the sales and use tax exemption for businesses constructing in a Keystone Opportunity Zone. According to Pennsylvania Senate Bill 1412, a business may purchase services or tangible personal property, other than motor vehicles, exempt from sales and use tax if these items are purchased for the exclusive use, consumption, or utilization at a facility located within a Keystone Opportunity Zone (KOZ) or a Keystone Opportunity Expansion Zone (KOEZ).

In June 2008, the Pennsylvania Senate signed an amended Senate Bill 1412 to include certain purchases of services or tangible personal property by construction contractors for use in a construction contract with a qualified KOZ business, landowner, or lessee. However, this bill was not effective until September 2008. In order for a qualified contractor to take advantage of this exemption, the construction contract with the eligible KOZ business, landowner, or lessee must be dated on or after September 8, 2008. This expansion of the sales and use tax exemption will apply to any qualified purchases made by a general contractor or subcontractor.

Keystone Opportunity Zones and Keystone Opportunity Expansion Zones are selected underdeveloped and underutilized commercial or industrial properties which provide little to no tax burden to businesses who develop in those areas. These zones were enacted to help promote economic growth and development in those selected areas. There are currently 12 Keystone Opportunity Zones located in Pennsylvania.

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For more information on Lancaster PA Real Estate, or questions
about buying or selling a home in Lancaster County PA,
please contact
Jeannie Kontis at (717) 330-5137
or email at Jeannie@JeannieSellsLancaster.com.

Search for Lancaster Homes for Sale at    www.JeannieSellsLancaster.com

Jeannie Kontis, RealtorⓇ, is a member of the award-winning Bob Wells Realty Group of Long & Foster Lancaster Real Estate, Inc, and serves buyers and sellers of real estate throughout Lancaster County.

Lancaster Realtor musings on a Sunday afternoon

Sunday musings of a Lancaster Real Estate agent

 

I had an enjoyable afternoon today showing homes (until I went to Panera's for lunch - that's another story) to a couple who are first time homebuyers.  They've been sitting on the fence for a while - probably at least a year - but I think the new tax credit might have sparked their interest.  They are finally out looking at homes and not just talking about it! 

We saw a great Lancaster City home for sale, which had some fantastic features.  Tall ceiling, gorgeious hardwood everywhere, an updated kitchen, pocket doors - you all know the type - a typical turn of the century Victorian in Lancaster City.  It was really beautiful, and probably on the top of their list for now.  It lacked a few things that they'd really like to have, and so I told them to take their time and think it over.  There are things that you can change in some homes, and some things that you can't change.  This home could not accomodate off-street parking, which would be important to them.

As a contrast, we took a look at a detached home for sale in Grandview Heights in Manheim Township.  It was really in great shape and had a lot going for it ~ they just weren't "feeling" it like they did the old victorian.  Clearly, there are huge differences in design, although this unique home was priced right and had a lot to offer for a tree-lined street along one of Manheim Township's favorite neighborhoods.

All in all, it was a great day ~ until lunch time at Panera's.  Usually one of my favorite places to grab a "U Pick 2" for lunch, the poor girl at the order taking station must have been new at the job.  She messed up the order of the people ahead of me.  Messed up my husband's order - and messed up mine the worst!  I take pity when it's a young person who is clearly new at their job, so I didn't make a stink about it.  It was tasty, just not quite what I had ordered - a Smokehouse Turkey panini and a salad.  Instead, I got a cold turkey sandwich.  At least she got the salad right!  The lady on line before me was making a big fuss - it just isn't worth the effort and I wouldn't let it ruin my day.

I came home to take a nice long afternoon nap on the couch with one of my favorite puppies. 

A great way to wrap up a Sunday!

 

Jeannie Kontis, Realtor

 

 

 

 

 

For more information on Lancaster PA Real Estate, or questions
about buying or selling Real Estate in Lancaster County PA,
please contact
Jeannie Kontis at (717) 330-5137
or email at Jeannie@JeannieSellsLancaster.com.

Search for Lancaster Homes for Sale at    www.JeannieSellsLancaster.com

Jeannie Kontis, RealtorⓇ, is a member of the award-winning Bob Wells Realty Group of Long & Foster Lancaster Real Estate, Inc, and serves buyers and sellers of real estate throughout Lancaster County.
All content Copyright ⓒ 2009 Jeannie Kontis    Homes in Lancaster PA - Real Estate in Lancaster County

 
Gourmet Kitchens of Lancaster County Homes for Sale - my take on it!

Kickin' it up in the Gourmet Kitchens of Lancaster County - Lancaster Real Estate style

While I was making dinner tonight, my mind started wandering (not unusual!)  Actually, it started wandering before I started making dinner and while I was looking through the pantry and the freezer trying to decide what to make.  I don't grocery shop much anymore since it's just the two of us at home.  I've never liked grocery shopping, but I took pleasure in buying stuff and cooking favorite foods for my family to enjoy.

Shhh... If I play my cards right, i can pretend I can't find anything to cook and my husband will take over and make dinner instead!

So anyway, I'm putzing around in my kitchen and my mind starts to wander to some of the first meals that I used to make when I was first married.  Oh my, they were quite a trip!  Chicken Fingers were one of the few things I knew how to make, and so we ate them quite often. I think I might have even come close to poisoning ourselves once or twice, as I never realized that I should not "save and re-use" the leftover flour that I would dredge the raw chicken in...

So back to my story... about my mind wandering (sort of like this post)... I started to for some reason think of "gourmet" kitchens.  And I wondered to myself:

      "Self, just how many listings are on the MLS right now with the words "gourmet kitchen" in the descriptive remarks?" 

So, while my Greek keftedes (meatballs) were cooking for dinner, I did a quick MLS search for "gourmet".

Now, "gourmet" can really be different in the eye of the beholder, can't it?  I've had a number of homebuyers in the past who have indicated that a "great" kitchen is a "must have", but what someone considers a great kitchen, can be completely different from what others consider a "great kitchen". 

What ever it means to you, below are homes for sale in Lancaster County that have "gourmet kitchens" according to the listing agent.  Some are really pretty terrific looking, and the homes include are in various price ranges. The lowest priced one in the list is a Lancaster City home for $119,900 that has a surprisingly large kitchen, although I'm not sure I would call it a "gourmet" kitchen.  Still, it was nice enough to include.

There were a number of homes that I did not include because their kitchens didn't look all that great, let alone "gourmet".

Click here to view Lancaster County homes for sale with Great Kitchens

 

Jeannie Kontis, Realtor

 

 

 

 

 

For more information on Lancaster PA Real Estate, or questions
about buying or selling Real Estate in Lancaster County PA,
please contact
Jeannie Kontis at (717) 330-5137
or email at Jeannie@JeannieSellsLancaster.com.

Search for Lancaster Homes for Sale at    www.JeannieSellsLancaster.com

Jeannie Kontis, RealtorⓇ, is a member of the award-winning Bob Wells Realty Group of Long & Foster Lancaster Real Estate, Inc, and serves buyers and sellers of real estate throughout Lancaster County.
All content Copyright ⓒ 2009 Jeannie Kontis    Homes in Lancaster PA - Real Estate in Lancaster County

 
Detached Home in Ephrata School District - Craftsman Home for Sale

Craftsman Home for Sale, Ephrata PA, Lancaster Pa real EstateAuthentic Craftsman home for sale in Lancaster County, PA.

If you are a lover of authentic Arts & Crafts style homes, you will fall in love with the detailed character of this property.

Enjoy the richly, detailed hardwood flooring and beveled glass French Doors.

 

 

 

Craftsman home for sale

 

 

 

 

 


The home is located in Ephrata Boro, offering a quick commute to Route 322, Route 222, and the PA Turnpike. Enjoy the events and shops of downtown Ephrata Boro, including Ephrata's "Third Friday's a Charm" events.

The home features an inviting front porch, a detached 2-car garage and an easy access side carport, 4 Bedrooms, Formal Dining Room, Formal Living Room, Fireplace, Sunroom, large Eat-in Kitchen, 1.5 Baths, Replacement Windows throughout. The mechanicals have all been updated to assure a care-free maintenance schedule.

 

 

If you are looking for an affordable home full of character, look no further than 516 S. State Street in Ephrata Boro, Lancaster County PA.

For additional features, visit the virtual tour at 515 S State Street, Lancaster Homes for Sale.

 

Price: $194,900

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

For additional Homes for Sale in Lancaster County, Lancaster PA Real Estate, visit www.JeannieSellsLancaster.com. Search all Lancaster MLS homes for sale.

 

Jeannie Kontis, Realtor
The Bob Wells Realty Group
Long & Foster Real Estate, Lancaster
717-330-5137 Direct
Jeannie@JeannieSellsLancaster.com Email

www.JeannieSellsLancaster.com Lancaster Real Estate Search

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For more information on Homes for Sale in Lancaster, or questions and/or concerns about buying or selling a home in Lancaster County PA, please contact Jeannie Kontis at (717) 330-5137 or email at Jeannie@JeannieSellsLancaster.com.

Search for Lancaster Homes for Sale at www.JeannieSellsLancaster.com

Jeannie Kontis, RealtorⓇ, is a member of the award-winning Bob Wells Realty Group of Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc, and serves buyers and sellers of real estate throughout Lancaster County.

All content Copyright ⓒ 2008 Jeannie Kontis Homes in Lancaster PA - Real Estate in Lancaster County

 

 

What's happening with Manheim Township new construction?

Charter Homes is still busily working on developing the Gammache property in Manheim Township along Route 23. According to the Lancaster Newspaper article, Charter has changed their plans at least 3 times since 2003, and has just applied for two rezoning petitions for portions of the 45-acre property at the recent Manheim Township comissioner's meeting.

It will be interesting to see what they come up with next. Could it be another "Independence"?

It will be interesting to see if Manheim Township has the same reaction as Hempfield did with Charter Homes TND plans for "Independence".

The 45-acre tract was bequeathed to Lancaster Catholic High School, and has held the attention of the township for several years now. Looking back, Charter Home's original plan of 125 condos, semi detached homes and single family homes sounds pretty good right about now. This was back in 2003, though, and their plans have since changed to as many as 207 housing units and as much as 140,000 sf of commercial space.

It will be interesting to see what type of rezoning they are interested in now, especially as I watch the Townes at Richmond Square development takingTownes at Richmond Square shape along Fruitville Pike between Petersburg Road and Koser Road. The shops certainly look interesting, and it will be convenient for those "bread runs" during snow emergency days that seem to be closing in on us with this blustery weather lately ~ especially since I live right down the road.

To be perfectly honest, I hope Charter Homes decide to make a large portion of whatever they are doing sectioned off for 55+ housing. It seems to be in short demand in Manheim Township, and it would be such a convenient location for that type of housing development. In the meantime, I am keeping an up close and personal eye on what is going on at Richmond Square, because I believe it would be an ideal location for my parents to downsize to. Especially since they can't find what they are looking for in close-by Brighton (plus there seem to be many more shops at Richmond Square ~ which will keep my dad *very* happy!).

If you are searching for homes in Manheim Township or or other Lancaster County locations, complete your search on my Lancaster Real Estate website.

 

Search Lancaster MLS, Jeannie Sells Lancaster

Jeannie Kontis, Lancaster Realtor, Long and Foster

 

 

 

Jeannie Kontis
Long & Foster Real Estate
Lancaster Real Estate Sales
www.JeannieSellsLancaster.com

 

717-330-5137 or email Jeannie@JeannieSellsLancaster.com

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For more information on Homes for Sale in Lancaster, or questions and/or concerns about buying or selling a home in Lancaster County PA, please contact Jeannie Kontis at (717) 330-5137 or email at Jeannie@JeannieSellsLancaster.com.

Search for Lancaster Homes for Sale at www.JeannieSellsLancaster.com

Jeannie Kontis, RealtorⓇ, is a member of the award-winning Bob Wells Realty Group of Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc, and serves buyers and sellers of real estate throughout Lancaster County.

All content Copyright ⓒ 2008 Jeannie Kontis Homes in Lancaster PA - Real Estate in Lancaster County

 

"Ironing" out the wrinkles of architecture - or - What is a Flatiron building?

Have you ever wondered where the "Flatiron" style of architecture came from?Flatiron Buildings in Lancaster, Historic Lancaster PA

I never really thought about it, until I read this article in the Lancaster Newspapers. According to the article, the Flatiron styled buildings are named after antique household "irons".

Yes, the bane of every housewife in the world -- whether in by-gone eras or in today's modern Rowenta world -- was the influence for this triangular style of architecture. If you click on the link to the article, you can see some excellent photos of examples.

There are a number of "flatiron" buildings in Historic Lancaster City - many of them historic warehouses as well as a few apartment buildings. I always thought they were just "triangular" shaped buildings.

Who knew?

Which makes me wonder:

Will they ever come out with a "Permanent Press" architectural style?

Wash and Wear?

I guess those with rates that are adjusting are "hanging out to dry". (bad pun ~ I admit ~ but couldn't help myself!)

 

www.JeannieSellsLancater.com

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For more information on Homes for Sale in Lancaster, or questions and/or concerns about buying or selling a home in Lancaster County PA, please contact Jeannie Kontis at (717) 330-5137 or email at Jeannie@JeannieSellsLancaster.com.

Search for Lancaster Homes for Sale at www.JeannieSellsLancaster.com

Jeannie Kontis, RealtorⓇ, is a member of the award-winning Bob Wells Realty Group of Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc, and serves buyers and sellers of real estate throughout Lancaster County.

All content Copyright ⓒ 2008 Jeannie Kontis Homes in Lancaster PA - Real Estate in Lancaster County

 

Commercially Zoned Lot needed for LEASE - anywhere in Lancaster County

I am searching for LAND or a LOT for LEASE that would allow outdoor retail sales.  Sheds for Sale, Commercial Land for Lease

A former USED CAR LOT would be ideal!

But could be just about any land that would preferably be commercially zoned, ag zoned or industrial which would allow retail sales and outdoor displays.

This is for the display and sales of attractive outbuildings, sheds, gazebos, swingsets, etc.  The location would be manned with a full time salesperson.

Anywhere along Columbia Ave, Manheim Pike (or ANY of the "Pikes") would be ideal. A paved used car lot would be ideal, but a grassy level area is acceptable.  Must have adequate parking area (paved or gravel) for customers.

If you have a commercially zoned property with land or a commercial lot and could use a local well-known business as a tenant ~ please let me know!

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Email Jeannie Kontis, KontisHomes@aol.com or call me directly at 717-330-5137 with any possibilities.

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For more information on Homes for Sale in Lancaster, or questions and/or concerns about buying or selling a home in Lancaster County PA, please contact Jeannie Kontis at (717) 330-5137 or email at Jeannie@JeannieSellsLancaster.com.

Search for Lancaster Homes for Sale at www.JeannieSellsLancaster.com

Jeannie Kontis, RealtorⓇ, is a member of the award-winning Bob Wells Realty Group of Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc, and serves buyers and sellers of real estate throughout Lancaster County.

All content Copyright ⓒ 2008 Jeannie Kontis    Homes in Lancaster PA - Real Estate in Lancaster County

 

A Real Estate Agent's letter saves the day!

I've just spent the better part of this evening off and on the phone negotiating a deal.

Funny thing, that even in this market this house happened to get two offers on the same day.  Well, not funny for the buyers affected, and certainly not funny for us agents ~ just "funny" like ironic that after being on the market for as long as it had been, two offers come in on the same day.

It turns out that the sellers, after mulling things over and all-night long conversations between the other agent and myself, have decided to go with my buyer's offer with just a few minor changes.

What was the clincher?  They seemed to "like" my buyers better, for one.  Woohoo!  I have to admit, I like my buyers too (that certainly helps!)

But even in this "buyers" market, it's important to keep in mind that sellers are going through an emotional time and many would like to feel some sort of connection with the buyers who are purchasing their "home".  Not every seller is "desperate" and the fact that they can choose from two offers certainly puts them in an enviable position compared to so many other sellers in this market.

The letter i sent along with our offer helped.  It told a bit about the buyers, what they loved about the home, what had drawn them to that area, and their future dreams of starting their own lives in the home.  

    * It put a face to the black-and-white pre-printed agreement of sale.

    * It put a meaning behind the terms we were asking for.

    * And it is putting a ratified contract in my hand.

Who can ask for more than that with just a simple letter?!

I send a letter about the buyers along with each and every offer I make ~ sometimes it's handwritten, sometimes it's typed.  I have found, on more than one occassion, that it helps to seal the deal even if my buyer's offer is not the best one on the table.

Many times, it's the only offer with a "face" attached to it.

Who knew one day that my bad penmanship would come in so handy!

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For more information on Homes for Sale in Lancaster, or questions and/or concerns about buying or selling a home in Lancaster County PA, please contact Jeannie Kontis at (717) 330-5137 or email at Jeannie@JeannieSellsLancaster.com.

Search for Lancaster Homes for Sale at www.JeannieSellsLancaster.com

Jeannie Kontis, RealtorⓇ, is a member of the award-winning Bob Wells Realty Group of Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc, and serves buyers and sellers of real estate throughout Lancaster County.

All content Copyright ⓒ 2008 Jeannie Kontis    Homes in Lancaster PA - Real Estate in Lancaster County

 

Lititz Students Benefit when Private Enterprise and Schools come together - or, How to Build a Shed Kit with Middle School Students

Don't you just love it when you hear about a private enterprise doing their part for the community?

Several weeks ago, Fox's Country Sheds provided a "shed kit" to the Warwick Middle School technology class, in the Warwick School District in Lancaster County, PA.

Warwick School District is in the midst of renovating and expanding their current middle school, and the students are surrounded by on-going construction.  Their very forward-thinking technology teacher thought it would help his students understand the processes going on around them if they could somehow participate in something similar firsthand.

So, they researched what they wanted to build, and decided on a "shed kit" ~ which includes all of the components of a garden shed, but it is not pre-assembled.  They even went as far as spending time on the www.FoxSheds.com website, choosing a shed style - the Carriage Shed (shown below), choosing colors, and ordering the shed right online.  Of course, being the community-supporter that it is, Fox's Country Sheds gave them a great discount.

There are some great photos of the shed being built by the students on the Warwick School District website.

There is also a great article on the Warwick School District website about how much the students learned while building the shed, and what they are purchasing with the proceeds after selling the shed to a fellow teacher. 

According to the article, some of the students enjoyed the construction process so much that they might be considering it as a career.  Others have taken to starting their own projects at home, such as treehouses.

There were some questions along the way, and Fox's was always available to help guide them through some tricky construction spots. But, the kids did everything from putting the walls and floor together to shingling the roof, and even hanging the vinyl siding. 

I think it's great that our community has such innovative and bright teachers, who are helping local students expand their horizons.  Kudos to the middle school students at Warwick, and their teacher Mr. Hartmann as well as their very helpful Millersville University student teacher.

 Fox's Country Sheds would be happy to assist other local organizations or municipalities with a similar project.  They can be reached at www.FoxSheds.com , via email at info@foxsheds.com , or called directly at 717-626-9560.

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For more information on Homes for Sale in Lancaster, or questions and/or concerns about buying or selling a home in Lancaster County PA, please contact Jeannie Kontis at (717) 330-5137 or email at Jeannie@JeannieSellsLancaster.com.

Search for Lancaster Homes for Sale at www.JeannieSellsLancaster.com

Jeannie Kontis, RealtorⓇ, is a member of the award-winning Bob Wells Realty Group of Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc, and serves buyers and sellers of real estate throughout Lancaster County.

All content Copyright ⓒ 2008 Jeannie Kontis    Homes in Lancaster PA - Real Estate in Lancaster County

 

Open House in Historic Lititz on Sunday

September 2008
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Historic Lititz, Lititz  -  We invite everyone to visit our open house at 51 E. Front Street on September 21 from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM.

Property information

4-Level Split For Sale in Manheim Township

Manheim Towship Split Level
Private Yard

• 1,772 sq. ft., 3 bath, 3 bdrm 4-level split "Great Living Space, Poss In-Law" - $270,000 - Value in Manheim Township

 -  Lovely multi-level Split in desirable Manheim Township neighborhood is close to all major roads, shops and local schools.

Features include a private corner location with lush landscaping, enormous covered deck and an oversized, detached 2-car garage with workshop, powder room and a finished room on the 2nd floor. Every contractor / handyman's dream garage!

Hardwood floors grace every room of the home. The kitchen is spacious with abundant cabinetry, tiled floors and countertops and a sunny and bright breakfast nook overlooking the private yard.

Additional features include a walk-up attic, 3 bedrooms on the main floor and a 4th bedroom in the walk-out lower level (ideal for an in-law quarter), fireplace with heatilator in the family room, central air and of course the lovely private yard with covered deck and extra large detached garage.



Property information

Stone Cape Cod For Sale in Millersville Boro

• 3,542 sq. ft., 4 bath, 5 bdrm single story - MLS® $369,000

 -  Lovely classic home with solid stone construction. This cape cod boasts a 1.7-story layout with a full rear dormer, unlike your typical 1.5-story cape cod. Stone surrounds the entire home on all four sides.

You will be impressed immediately as you enter the stone front porch, where you will enjoy informal visits or quiet moments. The foyer is grand, and sets the perfect setting as your guests are welcomed to your new home.

The Living Room features a full, nearly wall-length bow window, flooding the room with sunlight. The stone hearth fireplace creates an ideal, yet warm, focal point in this generously sized room. Open to the Formal Dining Room through a classic archway, the home is ideal for entertaining gatherings of all sizes. The Formal Dining Room features rich, hardwood flooring, and sets the stage for both, impressive and intimate gatherings.

The Kitchen is spacious and sunny and offers an abundance of cabinets, counterspace and work area, in addition to the large informal eating area. The kitchen pantry is only one of the many available storage areas throughout the home.

This 3,542 SF home offers 5 bedrooms, with 3 bedrooms on the first floor and 2 bedrooms on the spacious 2nd floor. There is a possibility of having a first floor master bedroom, or enjoy the extra large master bedroom on the 2nd floor as the current owners do. Each Bedroom features lovely hardwood flooring and an abundance of closet space.

The walk-out lower level offers an expansive game/rec room with a stone fireplace. There is also a full bath with a walk-in shower, making it an ideal possibility for an in-law quarter.

Enjoy the private 3/4 acre property, lush with shade trees and lovely landscaping. This home is not located in a development, yet is located only a few minutes from downtown Lancaster City, major shops and amenities, in the Millersville Boro area. The home is part of the Penn Manor School District.

Property information

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