Pennsport Home Listed Without Interior Photos Becomes Dream Home for Local Couple
In a significant real estate transaction, Nick Imparato, 27, a program director, and Dale Macauley, 28, an art director, have successfully purchased a 1,680-square-foot rowhouse in the Pennsport neighborhood of Philadelphia. The property, which has five bedrooms and one and a half bathrooms, dates back to 1915. Initially listed at 1,000, the couple concluded their purchase at a price of 2,000.
Imparato and Macauley had been living in a one-bedroom apartment at South 13th and Carpenter Streets, a space they deemed increasingly cramped. Seeking more room, they contemplated homeownership and began looking in earnest in early 2024, despite having initial reservations about entering the property market. Their search focused on staying within South Philadelphia and finding a rowhouse with original features and at least one additional bathroom.
With the assistance of their agent, Sue Liedke of Compass Real Estate, they explored various listings, navigating platforms like Redfin and Zillow for suitable options. The competitive market presented challenges, as several of their preferred properties sold for approximately ,000 over their asking prices. This trend left them feeling that homes they admired were often just beyond their financial grasp.
Their eventual discovery of the rowhouse came from an online listing that, while lacking interior photos, showcased intriguing exterior images. Following a visit to the neighborhood, they felt an immediate connection to the property. This initial affection was solidified during an open house, where charming features such as wooden radiator covers captivated their interest.
To enhance their chances in a competitive bidding situation, the couple submitted a handwritten letter to the sellers outlining their appreciation for the home and expressing a commitment to preserving its unique character. Their offer of 2,000, slightly above the list price, was accepted the following day, assisted by a ,000 seller’s assist due to some minor structural concerns identified during a presale inspection.
Financing the purchase required a down payment of ,000, with the couple securing a mortgage amounting to 2,000 at an interest rate of 5.875%. Initially apprehensive about the complexities of purchasing a home as an unmarried couple, their worries proved unfounded.
The closing occurred in early October 2024, with the couple moving into their new home later that month. The relocation process was facilitated by their proximity to their previous residence, enabling a smooth transition. Since settling in, Imparato and Macauley have undertaken several home improvement projects, all while expressing admiration for the well-maintained state of the home, previously owned by the same family since the 1960s.
Reflecting on their journey, both have described the experience as nothing short of a “dream scenario.” Their new home offers the space to host family gatherings, including holiday celebrations. Enhancements to their quality of life, such as being near Jefferson Square Park, further complement their desire for a welcoming and engaging community. The couple’s tuxedo cat, Stache, has also found comfort in their new environment, partaking in the lively atmosphere of their Pennsport abode.
