T
he cottage on Asbury Avenue in Ocean City has been a Smith family home for 70 years. Now it’s likely at the end of its life. The 957‑sq‑ft house, two blocks from the beach, is under contract with a developer for $1.4 million, and the family expects it will be torn down. The property sits on a large lot surrounded by larger homes, making it prime for redevelopment. Norman and Elizabeth Smith bought the cottage in 1956 for $13,500. Generations of Smiths spent summers inside its cramped rooms. After Norman and Elizabeth died, their son lived there until his death in September; the family then decided to sell. The home was listed in late October and received multiple offers, mostly from developers. The cottage’s unique size in the neighborhood made it a target for demolition.
Meanwhile, a Bucks County pipeline leak has disrupted a quiet suburban neighborhood. Kristine Wojnovich and her husband no longer use their well water after a 14‑inch pipeline carrying jet fuel, diesel, or gasoline from Delaware County to Newark, N.J. leaked in January. The leak contaminated six wells, forcing residents to avoid drinking or cooking with the water. The incident has led to homes being put on the market and a sense of unease among neighbors.
Other highlights this week include:
- Luxury home listings and sales in Philadelphia and Delaware County are down from last year, but prices are rising.
- A Philadelphia couple purchased a home in East Falls that they describe as “the most child‑unfriendly home.”
- The Philadelphia Housing Authority plans to lay off nearly 300 workers in 2026.
- A judge determined responsibility for the mismanagement of Philadelphia’s largest hotel construction.
- The College of Physicians and the Mütter Museum will receive a $27 million expansion and renovation.
- Philly‑area outlet malls are finding ways to survive and thrive amid the decline of traditional malls.
- A former Kennett Square dairy farm is being converted into a wedding venue with a $6 million makeover.
- House of the week: A trinity in Bella Vista for $319,000.
- Luxe listing: A Wildwood Crest home for $2.7 million, featuring 10 bedrooms, a pool, and 127 years of Jersey Shore history.
- Home tour: A 1860 Romanesque church in Spring Garden has been transformed into an apartment building with 17 units. Four women in their 20s now live in a four‑level unit that retains soaring ceilings, stained glass, and ornate carvings. They host parties and movie nights in the former sanctuary, using the raised platform as a stage.
Photo quiz: Can you identify the location shown in the photo? Email me your answer; the correct guess may be featured in the next issue. Congratulations to Janet P. and Gary G. for last week’s correct answer.
Enjoy the rest of your week and Thanksgiving. We’ll return on Thursday, Dec. 4. By submitting contributions, you agree to The Inquirer’s Terms of Use, including the grant of rights in Section 10.
