Of all the houses I looked at last Sunday, I revisited two this week. Of the two, the one that I like is located on Scott Street. This street is located just west of M&T Bank Stadium, and it is just a short walk away from the stadium. The area is definitely in transition, but the street itself seems to be quiet and calm. The specific house I am looking at can be seen here.
The house is nothing terribly extravagant. It has recently been redone. It is a 2 bedroom, 1 bath rowhome. There is a little sunroom behind the kitchen that can be used as an office. The basement is full, but unfinished. The kitchen is a nice size, and the appliances are good quality. The countertop is formica/laminate–nothing fancy but definitely serviceable (and upgradeable). It has central air conditioning, and the first floor has a cherry hardwood floor. There is a concrete pad as a yard, and if you look out the back window you can see the stadium. The house is in my price range as well.
The neighborhood surrounding the house is getting lots of work. Many homes have been redone in the block, and there are a few rehabs getting done. That said, the one thing I cannot get over is the amenities that surround me. I get the impression that the neighborhood is perhaps another year away from getting those shops, restaurants, and bars that I have grown accustomed to in Federal Hill and South Baltimore. I have really enjoyed popping out for a cup of coffee or a good brunch at Spoons, grabbing a beer at Captain Larry’s, and getting some good sushi at Nichiban. All of these places are within walking distance of where I currently live.
I don’t see that yet in Washington Village/Pigtown. There is lots of activity on Washington Boulevard, but I don’t see those things I am used to. Maybe I am being short-sighted, as the location has lots of potential. I suppose I desire something near a place with a bit more activity and vibrancy. I don’t want the activity to be of the bad kind, but I know that in the city I won’t be able to completely avoid it. Also, the neighborhood is not that far from my current one, and I think that might be jading me slightly. The bottom line is that I like this house, but I don’t have that voice screaming at me to buy this house now.
So, the end of this long rambling post is to gauge the current blogging denizens of Washington Village/Pigtown as to where things are going. What is coming in the neighborhood? Is there going to be a coffee house (Yeah, I know it sounds a bit trifling, but I like taking a walk and getting a decent cup of joe in the hood)? What else is around that one can enjoy themselves at? I know of the Yabba Pot, but if I want to enjoy something non-vegan, where do you go?
Our office just moved to S. Paca St. last month (about a block from the house you’re looking at) and I really like this neighborhood. It’s quiet, and I can park here and walk to O’s games. There’s a restaurant going in next door, but I’m not sure what kind of food they plan to serve. My guess would be just plain American fare, but who knows.
I’ve been hearing for some time that this is going to be the “next” Canton. Housing prices are going up pretty steadily from what I understand, so that’s a good sign.
Good luck with your house search!
After being a Butchers Hill resident for many years, I bought a house in Pigtown last Fall. I am just off Washington Blvd near Carroll Park. I had some reservations about buying in Pigtown at first, even though this is where my father grew up. Gentrification has not yet taken place on this side of Scott St., but it’s only a matter of time now. Houses over here are quietly being purchased and rehabbed. The neighborhood is very rough on the outside (understatement), but underneath it is very stable for the most part. I’m the first new homeowner on my block in twenty-seven years! And of all the neighborhoods I’ve lived in (Hampden, Butchers Hill, Mt. Vernon, Lakeside) Pigtown is the most neighborly of them all so far. There is a coffee shop that will be opening soon on Washington Blvd near the Yabba Pot. Everything is so close by too. I shoot across Ostend Street and I’m at the Cross St market in 5 minutes. It’s surprisingly close to everything and has much better parking (always a bonus). Honestly, this was the best decision I could have made. The neighborhood has already changed in the eight months I’ve been here and housing prices have shot up too. Before you know it, people will be saying “I should’ve gotten in on Pigtown when I had a chance.” And then they’ll set their sights on Morrell Park as “the next big/best real estate thing.”
Suck it up. Buy it and in 2-3 years you’ll double your investment and have all the coffee shops (dare I say maybe even a Starbucks), bars, limited parking and drunk college kids your heart desires. Good for you.
Our office just moved to S. Paca St. last month (about a block from the house you’re looking at) and I really like this neighborhood. It’s quiet, and I can park here and walk to O’s games. There’s a restaurant going in next door, but I’m not sure what kind of food they plan to serve. My guess would be just plain American fare, but who knows.
I’ve been hearing for some time that this is going to be the “next” Canton. Housing prices are going up pretty steadily from what I understand, so that’s a good sign.
Good luck with your house search!
After being a Butchers Hill resident for many years, I bought a house in Pigtown last Fall. I am just off Washington Blvd near Carroll Park. I had some reservations about buying in Pigtown at first, even though this is where my father grew up. Gentrification has not yet taken place on this side of Scott St., but it’s only a matter of time now. Houses over here are quietly being purchased and rehabbed. The neighborhood is very rough on the outside (understatement), but underneath it is very stable for the most part. I’m the first new homeowner on my block in twenty-seven years! And of all the neighborhoods I’ve lived in (Hampden, Butchers Hill, Mt. Vernon, Lakeside) Pigtown is the most neighborly of them all so far. There is a coffee shop that will be opening soon on Washington Blvd near the Yabba Pot. Everything is so close by too. I shoot across Ostend Street and I’m at the Cross St market in 5 minutes. It’s surprisingly close to everything and has much better parking (always a bonus). Honestly, this was the best decision I could have made. The neighborhood has already changed in the eight months I’ve been here and housing prices have shot up too. Before you know it, people will be saying “I should’ve gotten in on Pigtown when I had a chance.” And then they’ll set their sights on Morrell Park as “the next big/best real estate thing.”
Suck it up. Buy it and in 2-3 years you’ll double your investment and have all the coffee shops (dare I say maybe even a Starbucks), bars, limited parking and drunk college kids your heart desires. Good for you.
Jen: That’s good to know. I went by Paca while driving around the other evening.
AH: I have to admit that I have been surprised by how close it is to everything. I actually ran into some former colleagues of mine from College Park, and one of them lives in Ridgely’s Delight with his wife. I was mentioning to him where I was looking, and he mentioned how things are a-changing. And, geez, you have been around this city. I read your tale of the CB the other day, and that kind of had me going “Hmmm.” At the same time, this is definitely a neighborhood in transition.
OSP: Alright. I will suck it up and eat some bacon to make it taste better.
Jen: That’s good to know. I went by Paca while driving around the other evening.
AH: I have to admit that I have been surprised by how close it is to everything. I actually ran into some former colleagues of mine from College Park, and one of them lives in Ridgely’s Delight with his wife. I was mentioning to him where I was looking, and he mentioned how things are a-changing. And, geez, you have been around this city. I read your tale of the CB the other day, and that kind of had me going “Hmmm.” At the same time, this is definitely a neighborhood in transition.
OSP: Alright. I will suck it up and eat some bacon to make it taste better.
I own the coffeehouse that’s across the street from the Yabba Pot — I’m going to be open in September.
PLEASE move to Pigtown. It’s a great neighborhood, and you won’t regret it. I’ve lived here for six years, and we’re raising our son here — he was born the week before we moved here. We have good neighbors, good friends, and with the exception of a few odd incidents, we’ve been crime free (knock on Ikea wood-veneered MDF).
I look forward to meeting you as a neighbor, customer, and friend.
The offer has been made, so let\’s see what happens. I am glad to hear there will be a coffeehouse nearby. If I get the house, I will be the guy coming in for 6-shot Americanos.
I own the coffeehouse that’s across the street from the Yabba Pot — I’m going to be open in September.
PLEASE move to Pigtown. It’s a great neighborhood, and you won’t regret it. I’ve lived here for six years, and we’re raising our son here — he was born the week before we moved here. We have good neighbors, good friends, and with the exception of a few odd incidents, we’ve been crime free (knock on Ikea wood-veneered MDF).
I look forward to meeting you as a neighbor, customer, and friend.
The offer has been made, so let’s see what happens. I am glad to hear there will be a coffeehouse nearby. If I get the house, I will be the guy coming in for 6-shot Americanos.
I just bought a house a block away on Scott St. Prices have slowly dropped (stopped climbing?) and I got a pretty good deal. The longer it is on the market, the more likely you are to get a good price. Interest rates are up and it’s a buyer’s market. That said, don’t let a nice house get away from you. $3-4000 is nothing in the life of a house. Renegotiate on some other details (ask for a washer and dryer, etc). I think the area is perfect – very close to trains, stadiums, downtown, new coffee shop, etc. Prices will only increase as the DC crowd looks for the last convenient places to buy. Get there first.
I just bought a house a block away on Scott St. Prices have slowly dropped (stopped climbing?) and I got a pretty good deal. The longer it is on the market, the more likely you are to get a good price. Interest rates are up and it’s a buyer’s market. That said, don’t let a nice house get away from you. $3-4000 is nothing in the life of a house. Renegotiate on some other details (ask for a washer and dryer, etc). I think the area is perfect – very close to trains, stadiums, downtown, new coffee shop, etc. Prices will only increase as the DC crowd looks for the last convenient places to buy. Get there first.
Jason – I’m closing on a house on Carroll in Sept. and think you have made an excellent decision.
Carol – My friends and I are excited that we’ll have a coffee shop to visit!
All – As Jason was/is, I was a little hesitant to buy in Washington Village and even experienced a little buyer’s remorse this week; however, your positive outlook gives me hope that I will not regret my purchase. Thanks!
Jason – I’m closing on a house on Carroll in Sept. and think you have made an excellent decision.
Carol – My friends and I are excited that we’ll have a coffee shop to visit!
All – As Jason was/is, I was a little hesitant to buy in Washington Village and even experienced a little buyer’s remorse this week; however, your positive outlook gives me hope that I will not regret my purchase. Thanks!
I live on Wicomico.
I have three words for you: Patrick’s of Pratt.
I live on Wicomico.
I have three words for you: Patrick’s of Pratt.
Lori: I close on September 15. I was a little scared initially, but the more I think of it the better I like it. I am looking forward to that coffeehouse, too. Carol will get to know me as the guy ordering the 6 shot Americano.
Mike B: I discovered Patrick’s in doing some research. I will take your word. I say I organize a little neighborhood welcome wagon at Patrick’s after I get settled in. Who’s in?
Lori: I close on September 15. I was a little scared initially, but the more I think of it the better I like it. I am looking forward to that coffeehouse, too. Carol will get to know me as the guy ordering the 6 shot Americano.
Mike B: I discovered Patrick’s in doing some research. I will take your word. I say I organize a little neighborhood welcome wagon at Patrick’s after I get settled in. Who’s in?
i’m in for a get together…
i’m in for a get together…
I live right behind you. I can see the back of your house from my back porch. Come by 1135 Wicomico and introduce yourself after you settle in.
I live right behind you. I can see the back of your house from my back porch. Come by 1135 Wicomico and introduce yourself after you settle in.
I will do so, Mike. Looking forward to meeting you.
I will do so, Mike. Looking forward to meeting you.
I can’t wait to meet you guys!
6 shots, eh? You must be a laid-back kind of guy.
I am impervious to the effects of caffeine, Carol. I just drink it because of my addiction.
I can’t wait to meet you guys!
6 shots, eh? You must be a laid-back kind of guy.
I am impervious to the effects of caffeine, Carol. I just drink it because of my addiction.
I actaully grew up in Pigtown. The neighborhood does seem to be changing. I’ve lived in the county for some time now and really miss the city. I am only hesitant because both my roommates and I all drive nice cars ( BMW 5 series…). What is the crime like now a days? Does any one know of any new progress on washington blvd?
I actaully grew up in Pigtown. The neighborhood does seem to be changing. I’ve lived in the county for some time now and really miss the city. I am only hesitant because both my roommates and I all drive nice cars ( BMW 5 series…). What is the crime like now a days? Does any one know of any new progress on washington blvd?
joel: The city purchased a chunk of property on Washington Blvd for commercial development. You can see some of that going on now. Additionally, the area is certainly benefitting from the influx of new residents. As for crim, I don’t know for certain, but I will have an idea in short order.
joel: The city purchased a chunk of property on Washington Blvd for commercial development. You can see some of that going on now. Additionally, the area is certainly benefitting from the influx of new residents. As for crim, I don’t know for certain, but I will have an idea in short order.
Oh please. My neighbor across the street drives a Merc convertible and he’s never had a problem. Surely a mere 5 series would be okay.
This is where I would normally roll my eyes so hard they almost fall out of their sockets, but the effect, I’m afraid just isn’t the same unless you see it in person.
Crime is no worse here than in Federal Hill. At least where I’m sitting, anyway.
Oh please. My neighbor across the street drives a Merc convertible and he’s never had a problem. Surely a mere 5 series would be okay.
This is where I would normally roll my eyes so hard they almost fall out of their sockets, but the effect, I’m afraid just isn’t the same unless you see it in person.
Crime is no worse here than in Federal Hill. At least where I’m sitting, anyway.
Jason,
My wife and I considered buying that house in March. Very nice. We opted for one on Mangold St. Congrats. See you at Evelyn’s.
Jason,
My wife and I considered buying that house in March. Very nice. We opted for one on Mangold St. Congrats. See you at Evelyn’s.
Glad to have found your blog–I’m always scouring the net for ANY opinions/articles relating to Pigtown. I bought my house at 1178 Cleveland on Aug. 14, 2006 (coming from Adams Morgan in DC). Yep, crime is still a problem…particularly on my street with late night drug sales. However, the area IS changing (even in the four months I’ve been here). I’ve heard gossip about a small shopping area going up on Ostend St (near that deserted patch). Dunno when. Can’t wait until Washington Blvd cleans up a bit. How I’d love to be chillin’ in a poet’s lounge…sighs. Maybe in 2015. Ha.
Glad to have found your blog–I’m always scouring the net for ANY opinions/articles relating to Pigtown. I bought my house at 1178 Cleveland on Aug. 14, 2006 (coming from Adams Morgan in DC). Yep, crime is still a problem…particularly on my street with late night drug sales. However, the area IS changing (even in the four months I’ve been here). I’ve heard gossip about a small shopping area going up on Ostend St (near that deserted patch). Dunno when. Can’t wait until Washington Blvd cleans up a bit. How I’d love to be chillin’ in a poet’s lounge…sighs. Maybe in 2015. Ha.
I just found this site as I am planning a move to Cleveland Street next month! It is very reassuring to hear other people say that they have faith in Pigtown/Washington Village and that it is a good idea to move there! Look for a plant hanging from 1142 Cleveland in a bit!
I just found this site as I am planning a move to Cleveland Street next month! It is very reassuring to hear other people say that they have faith in Pigtown/Washington Village and that it is a good idea to move there! Look for a plant hanging from 1142 Cleveland in a bit!
Hi everyone! I live on West Ostend Street in Pigtown and things in the neighborhood are looking up, but there still is a serious drug problem. I have come home from work several times, gotten out of my car, only to witness yet another drug deal. There was actually a guy parked next to my house shooting up heroin in his piece of crap car. My husband and I scared him off, but he had the nerve to show up a few weeks later, thinking that we wouldn’t notice that he parked only a half a block away from where he was previously shooting up. He actually asked my husband on one occasion what he was doing and my husband responded “Just trying to keep the neighborhood safe, looking out for scumbag junkies and drug dealers.” Mr. Heroin Junkie couldn’t quite come up with a response to that. It’s infuriating how bold these scumbags are. A lot of them park on Nanticoke Street and walk over to Cleveland Street to buy their drugs. I am happy to hear that there are decent folks buying homes on Cleveland Street. Have any of you been able to discern where the drug house(s) are? Those of us in Pigtown who just want to lead normal lives and be with our friends and family need to band together and not let these dirtbags take over our neighborhood. I see a lot of progress in Pigtown, but some days are tougher than others. I am trying to do my part. If any of you happen to walk by and see me picking up trash outside my house on the corner of West Ostend and Nanticoke, please feel free to say hi!
Hi everyone! I live on West Ostend Street in Pigtown and things in the neighborhood are looking up, but there still is a serious drug problem. I have come home from work several times, gotten out of my car, only to witness yet another drug deal. There was actually a guy parked next to my house shooting up heroin in his piece of crap car. My husband and I scared him off, but he had the nerve to show up a few weeks later, thinking that we wouldn’t notice that he parked only a half a block away from where he was previously shooting up. He actually asked my husband on one occasion what he was doing and my husband responded “Just trying to keep the neighborhood safe, looking out for scumbag junkies and drug dealers.” Mr. Heroin Junkie couldn’t quite come up with a response to that. It’s infuriating how bold these scumbags are. A lot of them park on Nanticoke Street and walk over to Cleveland Street to buy their drugs. I am happy to hear that there are decent folks buying homes on Cleveland Street. Have any of you been able to discern where the drug house(s) are? Those of us in Pigtown who just want to lead normal lives and be with our friends and family need to band together and not let these dirtbags take over our neighborhood. I see a lot of progress in Pigtown, but some days are tougher than others. I am trying to do my part. If any of you happen to walk by and see me picking up trash outside my house on the corner of West Ostend and Nanticoke, please feel free to say hi!
I’m thinking about buying on James Street and wondering if any of you lives on that block?
Jason – do you feel like you made the right decision?
I’m thinking about buying on James Street and wondering if any of you lives on that block?
Jason – do you feel like you made the right decision?
I am amazed at how much traction this post gets almost a year after its initial posting.
Questions: I sent an email response under separate cover. I believe I made the right choice, and time will most certainly tell. The neighborhood has its issues, just as any transitional neighborhood has.
I am amazed at how much traction this post gets almost a year after its initial posting.
Questions: I sent an email response under separate cover. I believe I made the right choice, and time will most certainly tell. The neighborhood has its issues, just as any transitional neighborhood has.
Wow…I happened to stop by this blog again and it’s great to know how many cool people are right around the corner and checking in! As an update: Cleveland St. is improving! Pigtown has had a noticeable police presence this summer and an amazing amount of drug busts especially on my street. Alas, the area of Cleveland St. closest to Cross St. still seems to have the most significant share of seedy dealings and, of course, trash! Nonetheless, the Pigtown Clean Up Volunteers have been doing an awesome job cleaning on Saturdays. During the week, however, the trash problem builds. At least once a week I sweep/collect trash within a 4-house radius of my home. Every little bit counts. It’d be great if we had some trash cans on every end of the block.
Wow…I happened to stop by this blog again and it’s great to know how many cool people are right around the corner and checking in! As an update: Cleveland St. is improving! Pigtown has had a noticeable police presence this summer and an amazing amount of drug busts especially on my street. Alas, the area of Cleveland St. closest to Cross St. still seems to have the most significant share of seedy dealings and, of course, trash! Nonetheless, the Pigtown Clean Up Volunteers have been doing an awesome job cleaning on Saturdays. During the week, however, the trash problem builds. At least once a week I sweep/collect trash within a 4-house radius of my home. Every little bit counts. It’d be great if we had some trash cans on every end of the block.