Haverford

Source: Realtor.com

Located only 10 miles away from the City of Brotherly Love, people often view Haverford Township as a suburban extension of Philadelphia. But it’s not just an opinion– it’s very much so. Haverford is part of the historic Main Line and is one of Philly’s four inner-ring suburbs. And with its proximity to the big city, homes for sale in Haverford, PA are especially coveted.

WELCOME TO HAVERFORD TOWNSHIP

One of Delaware County’s 21 townships, Haverford sits on the northeastern edge of the county and is home to approximately 50,000 residents. Many people are drawn to Haverford Township not only for its closeness to Philadelphia but its peaceful college-town atmosphere as well. Haverford Township also has a reputation for excellent golf; at several points in the town’s history, professional golf players and enthusiasts flocked here for the U.S. Open.

In total, Haverford Township occupies approximately 10 sq. mi. of total area. There are two unincorporated communities within the township’s bounds: Haverford in the northern section of town, and Havertown in the south. Parts of Wynnewood, Bryn Mawr, Ardmore, and a sliver of Drexel Hill can also be found within the Township. Along Haverford Township’s boundaries are the neighboring townships of Radnor, Lower Merion, Springfield, Marple, and Upper Darby.

Haverford Township’s history is a fascinating journey that stretches back to the 17th century. Originally settled in 1682, it was named after Haverfordwest, a town in Pembrokeshire, South Wales. The township is nestled entirely within what was known as the Welsh Tract, reflecting its deep roots in Welsh heritage.

The early settlers were Welsh Quakers, and for many years, the area remained primarily agricultural. It was home to rolling farmland and water-powered mills, providing a picturesque rural landscape. An important milestone in its history came in 1912 when Haverford Township was elevated to the status of a first-class township. Subsequent decades saw the area’s farms transformed into golf courses and planned communities.

Today, Haverford Township is renowned for its exceptional quality of life, boasting top-rated schools, lush parks, and vibrant community spirit. Its rich history is still evident in its numerous historic sites and preserved buildings. Yet, it has evolved into a thriving suburban community, making it one of the most desirable places to live in the Greater Philadelphia region.

THE HAVERFORD TOWNSHIP, PA REAL ESTATE SCENE

Most of the homes for sale in Haverford Township, PA are single-family residences. They come in different iterations of Colonial architecture, such as Revival, Dutch, and Georgian. Havertown in particular hosts many a Dutch Colonial. South side Haverford’s prestigious Merion Golf Manor neighborhood, is known for its large estates and golf course views. The Coopertown section of Bryn Mawr is largely identified by its many ranchers and capes.

Twins (known as duplexes in other parts of the country) are the second largest type of residential real estate in Haverford Township; this segment accounts for approximately 15% of the market. And like Haverford, PA’s single-family homes for sale, these twins are largely traditional in architecture. The same could be said about Haverford Township’s condos and townhomes; although few in number, they are nonetheless available if you’re patient.

Haverford Township is a mosaic of distinctive neighborhoods, each offering a unique lifestyle and charm. As such, buyers can’t go wrong regardless of which neighborhood they choose to explore to find homes for sale in Haverford, PA.

• Bryn Mawr straddles both Haverford and Radnor townships and adds more variety to these two housing markets. These include 20th-century Colonial residences with tony stone exteriors, stylish Mid-century Modern homes, and multimillion-dollar luxury estates (most of which is concentrated near Bryn Mawr College). Some of Bryn Mawr’s historic homes from the 19th and early 20th centuries have been converted into upscale condos and apartments.

• Ardmore is considered by many as the commercial center of both Haverford and Lower Merion townships. Retail options abound, whether you are in the mood to shop, dine, or party. As for real estate, homebuyers flock to the Haverford side of Ardmore in search of homes for sale in the Dutch Revival and Colonial styles. Many residential properties in the neighborhood also feature stone siding that stand out in sharp contrast to the spacious and green front yards– another common Ardmore real estate feature.

• Haverford occupies some 3 sq. mi. of land in Haverford Township as well as Lower Merion. Old-growth trees cover most of the neighborhood, and the winding streets are lined with handsome and refined luxury homes. Traditional architecture is favored here. In Haverford Reserve, homebuyers can also find upmarket condos.

• Havertown, just a short jaunt from Haverford, has a housing market dominated by beautiful single-family homes– some historic, others more recently constructed, and available in many sizes and architectural styles. These residential properties are often situated next to or near Havertown’s historic buildings, which are scattered throughout the neighborhood and an integral part of the community.

• Wynnewood‘s residential real estate landscape is marked by gorgeous Federal- and Colonial-style homes– they line almost all of the streets in the community, which also extends into Lower Merion Township. Many of these properties are situated near parks, as Wynnewood is noted for having an abundance of public green space. In addition to single-family residences, the neighborhood also offers semi-attached homes as well as some very popular condo buildings.

Haverford Township is a relatively compact community. Residents, regardless of the particular neighborhood they live in, all enjoy easy access to great schools, parks, outdoor recreation opportunities, entertainment, and more. This aspect is only one of the reasons why homes for sale in Haverford Township, PA are in demand.

LIVING IN HAVERFORD TOWNSHIP, PA

Haverford Township is a community where history, culture, and contemporary living seamlessly merge. As a result, you can enjoy a lifestyle that is as diverse as it is enriching.

Living in Haverford Township, you will have several events and festivities to look forward to as seen in the local calendar. These include:

• Haverford Heritage Festival, an event that serves as a testament to the rich history and culture of Haverford Township. It gathers residents for a day of fun and celebration and features local food, music, and arts and crafts vendors. This is celebrated every first Sunday of June in Havertown.

• Haverford Music Festival, which brings together music lovers from across the township and beyond. It features performances by local musicians, creating an atmosphere of celebration and community bonding. The music festival is usually held in early September and has been ongoing for over a decade.

• Haverford Township Day, an annual tradition that has been celebrated for over 20 years, this event showcases the community’s unity and pride. It includes a parade, live music, food stalls, and various activities for all ages, making it a much-anticipated event in the community calendar. This is celebrated every first Saturday of October.

• Christmas at Grange Estate, a beloved holiday tradition that transforms the historic Grange Estate into a festive wonderland. It includes holiday decorations, music, and activities, offering a delightful experience for the whole family. The holiday event is typically held between late November and early January.

Shopping

Residents of Haverford Township have a wide range of shopping options nearby, from local boutiques to larger shopping malls.

• Haverford Square: Located at 379 Lancaster Avenue in Haverford, this iconic shopping center is a hub of activity. It houses an array of boutiques, shops, and dining options, including Eaves Boutique, The Skirt, Patricia Adams Gifts, and White Dog Cafe, making it a one-stop-shop for all your shopping needs.

• Manoa Shopping Center: Situated at 1305 West Chester Pike in Havertown, the Manoa Shopping Center has been serving the community for over 50 years. It features a variety of stores and services, including a Giant Food Store, Staples, Dollar Tree, and local eateries.

• Suburban Square: Located in Ardmore, Suburban Square is a charming outdoor shopping center that offers a unique blend of clothing, home goods, and specialty stores. Retailers include Apple, Trader Joe’s, Madewell, and Lululemon, providing a great place to enjoy retail therapy over the weekend. Suburban Square also hosts the Ardmore Farmers Market, where you can purchase local produce, baked goods, fresh seafood, and other specialty items.

• Wynnewood Shopping Center: Situated along 50 East Wynnewood Road, the Wynnewood Shopping Center offers a variety of stores, including fashion retailers like Ann Taylor Loft, home goods stores such as Bed Bath & Beyond, and grocery stores like Whole Foods Market.

Dining

Foodies looking for great eats don’t have to venture very far– Haverford Township is filled with restaurants serving up cuisine from around the world. If you feel like exploring the local food scene after moving here, the following eateries come highly recommended by locals and visitors alike:

• Brick and Brew: Known for its cozy gastropub setting, Brick and Brew provides an extensive menu featuring artisanal pizzas and small plates. For first-time visitors, the Pulled Pork Pizza and Truffle Mushroom Flatbread are must-tries. An impressive selection of craft beers is also available. You can visit Brick and Brew’s Havertown restaurant at 31 E. Eagle Road.

• Pepperoncini Italian Restaurant: This family-owned restaurant in Havertown serves traditional Italian dishes in a warm and comfortable atmosphere. The menu includes favorites like homemade pasta, veal, and seafood. Newcomers should not miss their signature dishes like Veal Saltimbocca and Bruschetta. Pepperoncini Italian Restaurant can be found at 25 S. Eagle Road in Havertown.

• Sang Kee Asian Bistro: Offering a broad range of Asian cuisine– including Chinese, Japanese, and Korean dishes– Sang Kee Asian Bistro stands out for its peking duck and a variety of noodle and rice dishes. The shrimp and lobster sauce and the roast pork lo mein are other crowd pleasers that often turn first-time visitors into repeat customers. Visit Sang Kee Asian Bistro at 339 E. Lancaster Avenue in Wynnewood.

• Ripplewood Whiskey & Craft – An American-style gastropub in the heart of Ardmore– at 29 E. Lancaster Avenue– Ripplewood specializes in craft cocktails and comfort food with a twist. Along with their whiskey selection, they offer a menu of creative dishes that change seasonally. Some of their recommended house specials include their Ripp burger and the whiskey king.

Local attractions

Haverford Township is home to several interesting locations that might catch your fancy, whether you are into local history and heritage, arts and culture, and simply being outside.

• Historic Grange Estate: The Historic Grange Estate offers a glimpse into the region’s past. This beautiful mansion, known for its architecture and gardens, provides guided tours, special events, and educational programs. It’s a perfect place for history buffs and nature lovers alike.

• Merion Golf Club: Known as one of the premier golf clubs in the country, Merion Golf Club has been the host of numerous major championships, including 5 U.S. Opens and 19 USGA tournaments. Its East Course is consistently ranked among the top courses worldwide. Visitors can enjoy a round of golf or simply appreciate the club’s rich history and beautiful grounds.

• Philadelphia Skating Club and Humane Society: As the oldest skating club in the United States, the Philadelphia Skating Club and Humane Society offers a unique blend of social, recreational, and competitive skating activities in a friendly environment. It’s an excellent place for beginners to learn to skate and for experienced skaters to perfect their craft.

• Bryn Mawr Film Institute: A community hub for film enthusiasts, Bryn Mawr Film Institute provides a venue for viewing independent, foreign, and classic films. They also offer film education programs and special events.

• Haverford College: One of the country’s most renowned liberal arts colleges, Haverford College acts not only as a center of learning but a repository of local and Quaker history, as well as a popular destination among locals and students for recreation and events. Moreover, the entire campus doubles as Haverford College’s 216-acre arboretum and serves as home to historic oaks, pines, and other specimen trees nearly as old as the college itself– nearly 200 years.

Parks and green spaces

Multiple studies have shown that spending time outdoors and being surrounded by nature leaves a positive and lasting impact on people’s overall health and wellness. And fortunately for residents of Haverford Township, they are conveniently located near several parks and green spaces such as:

• Haverford College Nature Trail: Established in 1933, this 2.2-mile nature trail follows the perimeter of the Haverford College’s 216-acre campus. The trail is a beautiful, mostly shaded path that is perfect for running, walking, or simply enjoying nature. Parts of the trail go through the 18-acre Pinetum and past some of the college’s facilities, enabling both visitors and students to catch glimpses of day-to-day campus life.

• Haverford Reserve Meadow: The Haverford Reserve is home to a stunning meadow that offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the busier parts of the township. The reserve also features a network of walking trails, sports facilities, and a state-of-the-art community center.

• Haverford Community Recreation and Environmental Center (CREC): Situated in Haverford, CREC is the township’s main destination for a wide variety of recreational pursuits, from athletics to fitness. The facility includes over 40 acres of outdoor space and features a walking track and several basketball courts, to name a few amenities. Access to the CREC is a Haverford Township resident perk, with some parts of the center free of charge to locals.

EXPLORE HOMES FOR SALE IN HAVERFORD TOWNSHIP, PA

I’m Rebecca Diamond. I’ve been living on and around the Main Line for over 40 years and have been serving the area as a Realtor for the past two decades. As both a local and experienced real estate professional, I can offer you two things: a curated showing of homes for sale in Haverford Township, PA that meet your requirements and additional perspective of what it’s like to live in the area.

Let me be one of the first people to welcome you to Haverford Township. Call me today at 610.246.0006 or send me an email so we can find your dream home in the area together.