Prediction: This Newly Listed Graduate Hospital House Will Go Fast

Here’s a newly listed home in Graduate Hospital, aka GradHo, South of South or Southwest Center City. There has been much confusion over the area’s name since the closure of Graduate Hospital, but then again, why rock the boat? Many neighborhoods in Philadelphia have historical names that no longer apply to current circumstances, like Fishtown or Gray’s Ferry. In Squirrel Hill, you might reasonably ask: Where is the hill? (Plenty of squirrels, however.) In Cobbs Creek, you’d be hard pressed to find a member of the Cobb family that settled there. Strawberry Mansion’s homes are not, as some children were told, huge houses made out of strawberries. (Children who were told this may have been traumatized for life. Just editorial speculation, here.)

The South of South Neighborhood Association puts it like this:

Our neighborhood is known by many names—Southwest Center City, Graduate Hospital, South of South.

But residents and businesses all agree that the area from South Street to Washington and Broad Street to the Schyulkill River is one of the best places to live and work in Philadelphia.

One thing’s for sure: It’s certainly one of the best places to buy and sell real estate these days. Prices have shot up, new construction can be heard throughout the GradHo land, and homes sell briskly. Check out, for instance, the home at 2031 Pemberton that sold in less than two days.

UPDATE: This house sold in 60 seconds!

This new home should do well, too. At 2,000 square feet, the 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath near 20th and Fitzwater has an incredible floating staircase that redeems one of the most disappointing features of new construction: the cliche of the metal banister and the overall rather dull aesthetic. The balcony has terrific views and there’s a fenced rear yard. All for less than $600,000, which these days is a real bargain in GradHo.

bedroom, walk-in closets, master bath and balcony with skyline views; well-proportioned secondary bedrooms with hall bath access and a large, convenient second floor laundry. The light filled finished lower level offers ample space for a family room, home office or workout area and includes additional storage space. The Fenced rear yard has space for grilling and chilling. Fantastic location, incredible layout and superb condition this property is not to be missed.

• 747 S 20th St, Philadelphia, PA 19146