Local Lowdown’s with Mike Ciunci - Why West Chester, PA

As a Westchester resident for over two and a half decades now, it's been a privilege to watch this area grow into the incredible place it is today!   

I'd like to share with you a few things you may know and maybe a few things you didn't know about our tight knit community known as Westchester.  Many tend to think great school systems means higher taxes.  Actually, large businesses like FedEx, UPS and CTDI are just a few of the big businesses that help subsidize taxes for our local homeowners.  This keeps affordability low.  The lowest tax rates in all of southeastern PA.  

Another big draw to the area is their amazing education system, with three prominent schools Westchester East, Henderson and Rustin, consistently ranking high in the state.  To top it all off, Westchester residents get to enjoy fine dining, shopping and a vibrant nightlife, all in their own backyard.  Along Gay and Market Street, you'll find the trendiest restaurants, the cutest boutiques and coffee shops.

In a nutshell, Westchester offers something for everyone, whether it's the affordability or the charming streets and lively nightlife, you can have it all right here in Westchester, P.A.

 

Local Lowdown’s with Mike Ciunci - Kati Mac Floral Designs

Welcome to another local low-downs highlighting the West Chester Business District. Today's spotlight is on Katie Mac for all designs located right here on South High Street.

In today's episode, you'll see why Katie Mac is such a special place and at the same time gives back to our own West Chester community.

Elaine Scott, a co-founder of the Katie Mac Education Foundation and co-manager of Katie Mac Floral Designs has a great story about her involvement with the Chester County Down Syndrome Interest Group.  Not only is this floral shop amazing but the way they help not only our community but also individuals with Down Syndrome learn and grow!  

Please stop in to check out this amazing business!

Located at:

36 S High St, West Chester, PA 19382

Kati Mac Floral Design:

Visit their website


Social:

@KatiMacFloralDesigns 

Local Lowdown’s With Mike Ciunci - Pizza West Chester

𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭'𝐬 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐚 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐩𝐢𝐞?

If it's always fresh, never frozen dough and top of the line cheese ingredients, then come get the inside scoop on West Chester's hottest new pizza joint.

Pizza West Chester:
Visit their website


Instagram:
@PizzaWestchester

Local Lowdown’s With Mike Ciunci - Dia Doce

In this episode we are featuring one of the more well known places in West Chester, Dia Doce, better known as the Cupcake Wars Champion. Thais Viggue, owner and baker, walks us through the start of Dia Doce and how West Chester and her current store front are what have helped make her bakery successful.

Dia Doce:
Visit their website

Local Lowdown’s With Mike Ciunci - Peter Clark Kitchen

Started during the pandemic in 2020, Peter Clark Kitchen is one of West Chester's newest eateries. With a global cuisine that is geared towards local, sustainable and organic foods; you will always find something different and new. Peter Clark Kitchen is family oriented and strives to build something better for all! You can find them at 698 E Market St. and can order online on their website.

Peter Clark Kitchen:
Visit their website

Local Lowdown’s With Mike Ciunci - West Chester Food Cupboard

West Chester Food Cupboard has a simple philosophy, no one should go hungry. During the trying times of the pandemic there are many who never thought that they would need any help or a service like the Cupboards and are exhausting every option before making their first visit. Please do not hesitate. This amazing life line to so many local West Chester area residents is the one of the reason’s that this town is so special. Please consider visiting the West Chester Food Cupboard if you need any help, they are there to help. Please consider giving back to your community and helping in any way you can!

West Chester Food Cupboard:
Visit their website

Local Lowdown’s With Mike Ciunci - Sedona Taphouse

Sedona Taphouse has finally arrived in West Chester! Come take a first hand look at their cuisine pairings, beer, and cocktail list. They have something for everyone but for those that like spicy & savory the Desert Fire Jalapeños is for you. Paired with Floyd’s Zombis Dust on tap for the complete experience. Organic, certified and sustainable fresh caught Thai Glazed Salmon is absolutely delicious especially paired with a refreshing Moscow Mule. For those that like red wine can enjoy the “Proprietary Red”, Paraduxx, paired with the Devil’s Pass Pasta completes the complete culinary experience.

Sedona Taphouse:
Visit their website

Master the Market – Hyper Local Matters

Hey guys, in an extremely competitive real estate market, representation is crucial. As a buyer or seller, if you’re not working with an expert in your specific market, you could be leaving money on the table.

Hyper Local Matters.

Master the Market – Don't Over Price

Thinking about overpricing your home? 🛑 𝗗𝗼𝗻’𝘁 𝗱𝗼 𝗶𝘁! You can never under price your home because the market will always correct itself. A realistic price on your home will inevitably get you the best deal, and overpricing will only reduce your leverage as you chase the market down!

Local Lowdowns With Mike Ciunci – Mae's West Chester

Mae’s is West Chester’s latest farm to table restaurant. Owners Josh and Erin Taggart love food and supporting the community by procuring local foods and ingredients. At Mae’s, a true love of cooking and family is evident, and even a pandemic can’t slow them down. Make sure to check out maeswc.com the next time you are craving something delicious. Stay safe and support local!

Mae's West Chester:
Visit their website

Local Lowdowns With Mike Ciunci – 44 West

n this episode of Local Lowdowns, we’re featuring West Chester Borough’s newest addition, 44 West. Built by Eli Kahn in memory of his mentor Jack Loew, this amazing new space will be a destination for office and retail spaces, events., the bubbling art scene, and an amazing new tap house. Nearing completion please enjoy a sneak peek inside. I can’t wait for this space to finally open and to be enjoyed by all of West Chester.

Tip # 1- Let's Strategize

As a seller in today's West Chester real estate market if you're priced right and marketed well, you could put yourself in a position to receive multiple offers. Here is a quick tip; don't overthink it. Together, we’ll come up with a strategy that best suits your situation. If we establish a game plan and communicate properly, you should receive the best offer and all parties will feel like they got a fair shake.

How your home shows, and how it’s marketed are two of the key features that will bring you success.
* We’ll strategize with my professional home consultant so that your home will show at its best.
* Do you need to declutter, do paint touchups, or replace any carpeting?
* We may want to freshen up your curb appeal with landscaping.
* Take note of the time of day the sun hits the front of your home. I’ll have my professional photographer get the best photos.
* Let’s talk about the unique features that set your home apart.

Want to learn more, or do you have questions about selling your home? Reach out and we can start a conversation!

Local Lowdowns With Mike Ciunci – Gryphon Cafe

In this episode of Local Lowdowns, we’re featuring West Chester Borough’s newest coffee shop, Gryphon Cafe. Whether you’re looking for a shot of caffeine, or to satisfy your sweet tooth, Gryphon has you covered. Owner Len Mojzes offers a wide selection of choices that make a great way to start your day. The Nitro coffee, with Nitro straight from the tap, offers more caffeine than your average cup o’ joe. Or warm up with a homemade hot chocolate. Iif you want to keep it healthy, Len offers Kombucha on tap, or you can try one of a variety of loose leaf teas. Stop in to discover which brew is the right fit for your mood!



Gryphon Cafe West Chester:
Visit their website

West Chester

There are so many reasons to love West Chester, from arts, culture and community parks, to low taxes and award-winning schools. But my favorite is the people who make this such a great community. Shout out to “America’s Greatest Small Town!”

Local Lowdowns With Mike Ciunci – Roots Café

West Chester is a foodie town and one of my top choices in the Borough is Roots Café. With a constantly evolving menu and seasonal choices, this is local, farm to table dining at its best. In this edition of Local Lowdows, John Hearn, the head chef and owner of Roots, talks about one of his favorite dishes, and the importance of creating fresh and relevant meals. The impressive variety and creativity in the menu keep people coming back. The next time you feel like having dinner out on the town, why not try Roots?

Roots Café:
Visit their website

Local Lowdowns With Mike Ciunci – Phineas Gage

If you’re looking to update your summer wardrobe and support local business right here in town, be sure to visit Phineas Gage on High Street. In this edition of Local Lowdowns, I had a great time trying out some of the spring and summer looks that Phineas Gage has to offer. Whether you need a new golf look or if you’re heading out for a night on the town, the founder and owner of Phineas Gage, Jaime Weisbrot, will greet you with personalized service. Offering men’s contemporary and casualwear, you can discover a fresh new wardrobe right here in our hometown. This boutique store has a cool history which Jaime has transformed into a trendy and relaxed atmosphere.

Phineas Gage - Men's Clothing
Visit their website

Local Lowdowns With Mike Ciunci – Jaco Juice & Taco Bar

Jaco is one of my favorite places to grab lunch in the Borough. It’s a great place to get a quick, healthy lunch, from fish tacos to a wide variety of smoothies - including their signature Baco Juice which includes fresh squeezed orange juice, carrot and ginger. In this edition of #WCLocalLowdowns, Jaco’s managing partner Kim O’Donnell explains why West Chester was the perfect location to open a juice & taco bar. Everything they serve is made with fresh ingredients, handmade from scratch. It’s a favorite spot for many West Chester residents and it’s one of my go-to spots in town.

Jaco Juice & Taco Bar:
Visit their website

Local Lowdowns With Mike Ciunci – Uptown! Knauer Performing Arts Center

West Chester is full of people with amazing talent, from theater to dance to music. Check out this edition of Local Lowdowns and learn why the founders of Uptown! had a vision of bringing live entertainment to our amazing town. The theater provides a home to more than 50 arts and culture organizations in Chester County that previously didn’t have a venue. It also offers a theater school and provides scholarships to kids who otherwise wouldn’t be able to participate. Uptown! Knauer Performing Arts Center offers amazing community outreach and it’s an integral and vibrant part of the West Chester community - bringing magic to our town all year round. Be sure to check out my video blog at https://mikeciuncidev.wpengine.com/video-blog/ to see more Local Lowdowns of West Chester.

Uptown! Knauer Performing Arts Center:
Visit their website

Local Lowdowns With Mike Ciunci – Yori’s Church St Bakery

On this episode of Local Lowdowns, we’re featuring a place to get the most heavenly desserts in West Chester – Yori’s Church Street Bakery. David Yori loves the creative outlet that baking provides, and it’s obvious when browsing the delicious and colorful treats in his shop. Everything is hand made with fresh, natural ingredients and no preservatives. He offers a different selection of baked goods throughout the year, depending on what fruits are in season. From traditional Christmas cookies to summer sweets, Yori’s has you covered. Stop in to discover your new favorite sweet, and be sure to check out my video blog at https://mikeciuncidev.wpengine.com/video-blog/ to see more Local Lowdowns of West Chester.

Yori's Church St Bakery:
Visit their website

Local Low Downs With Mike Ciunci – Gemelli

On this episode of Local Low Downs, we’re featuring a local West Chester spot that has brought a little bit of Italy to our own backyard. I had the opportunity to chat with Vincenzo Gemelli, the owner of Gemelli | Artisanal Gelato & Dessert Café. Recently voted as a Best in Town Award Winner by People’s Choice, this is one of West Chester’s finest, located right on Market St. Gemelli creates gelato from scratch with natural flavors, and they respect the original process of making gelato which, according to Vincenzo, is even disappearing in Italy.



Gemelli | Artisanal Gelato & Dessert Café:
Visit their website

Benchmark Twilight Cycling Classic

Just a couple of weeks left of summer and you know what that means? Benchmark Twilight Cycling Classic!! This is one of my favorite events of the year and you should not miss it, this Saturday 3-10pm. This event is rain or shine and all businesses will be open for commerce. I will see you there!.

LOVE LIVING IN WEST CHESTER

West Chester is a special place. I came here as a student and there is a reason I never plan on leaving. The amazing restaurants and shops, combined with the beautiful brick-lined streets have earned it the title “The World’s Most Perfect Small Town.” With a first-class selection of schools and parks, there is no better place to raise a family. And there is no one better to help you find your perfect home. In the past year alone, many of my listings have sold before they even hit the market, and the reasons are simple. I know this town and no one works harder or is more innovative. Selling or buying a home is a big event and you need a friend in your corner who is going to look out for you during that process. I would love to be that friend and ensure that you get the maximum value for your home.


LOCAL LOW DOWNS WITH MIKE CIUNCI - WEST CHESTER COCKTAILS

In this segment of Local Lowdowns, I’ll explore three great cocktails from our favorite West Chester barkeeps. The cocktail has always been an art form and along with its recent resurgence, we’ve seen some pretty amazing takes on some beloved classics. Sidebar, located at 10 E Gay St, offers excellent affordable food and great local spirits. Although known for its extensive craft beer selection, Sidebar also creates some of the best cocktails in town, like the Bourbon Sunrise. Ryan’s Pub, at 124 W Gay St, has played a key role in the revitalization of the downtown West Chester business district. As soon as it opened up shop, West Chester became the place to be and you can always find a friend on one of its 30 bar stools. Step outside your comfort zone and try their Key Lime Pie Martini. Located at 38 E Gay St, Teca has a new age Italian feel coupled with a local vibe and outdoor dining. Nothing kicks off a nice Italian meal like the Sorrentino. Check out this video for an insider’s peek at these three great establishments, and be sure to follow my video blog at https://mikeciuncidev.wpengine.com/video-blog/ if you want to see more Local Lowdowns of West Chester.


2018 SPRING REAL ESTATE MARKET

Even if there's snow on the ground, you may not realize the spring real estate market is already upon us. Get the inside edge in West Chester's unique local market, whether you need to sell a home or buy one. If you're a homeowner who needs to sell, this is the time to start your preparation so that your home is in pristine showing condition by the time landscaping is in bloom. This is when buyers will have the strongest emotional attachment. If you're a home buyer, you'll want to be connected to a local expert who can give you an edge in this competitive market. I'm here to help make sure your transition is as smooth as possible. Especially in this market - Who You Work With Matters.


REAL ESTATE VIDEO SERIES - EPISODE 7
PRICING YOUR HOME COMPETITIVELY

If you're in the market to sell your home, it's natural to want the highest possible price. You've probably heard over and over again that inventory is low. Buyers are in competition with each other and multiple offer scenarios are common. All of this is true in the current West Chester real estate market.

As a seller, you might be tempted to overprice your home, hoping that a buyer will overpay simply because there aren't a lot of homes for them to choose from. But if you truly want to net the most money out of your home sale, overpricing is not the answer. There is a strategy for how to price your home so that it sells quickly, and for the highest price. Tune in to learn more, or feel free to reach out to me with questions. Always remember, especially in this market, who you work with matters.


REAL ESTATE VIDEO SERIES - EPISODE 6
SEARCHING FOR AN AGENT ON ZILLOW

It’s intriguing to me to learn how people select their real estate agent, so it’s a question I ask frequently. Getting a referral from a friend or family member is a great way to choose an agent. On the other hand, if your cousin who lives in NJ recently got their PA license, you might not be hiring the most qualified agent to fit your needs.

This is where 3rd party websites like Zillow can be helpful. If you’re debating between 2 different agents, you can use a site like Zillow to research each agent and get unbiased reviews, sales activity, and current listings, to see how active each agent is in your local market. You can go to Zillow.com, click on Agent Finder, and type in the zip code for your target market. You’ll see agents listed by activity level, you can read reviews and you can even click through to that agent’s website or Facebook page to learn even more about them. This is most likely one of the biggest financial transactions you’ll make in your life, and you owe it to yourself to find the right fit, especially in today’s very competitive real estate market. Best of luck in your real estate transaction, and always remember, who you work with matters.


REAL ESTATE VIDEO SERIES - EPISODE 5
MULTIPLE OFFERS

As a home buyer in the current West Chester market, it’s more than likely that you’ll be competing with other buyers in order to “win out” on the home of your dreams. Inventory is low, and homes that show well and are priced correctly are selling very quickly.

So, what can you do to help make your offer stand out from the competition? In this video, I share some tips and tricks on putting your best foot forward. There are a number of strategies that can gain you an edge and make your offer look the most appealing to the seller. From being the first person through the door, to flexibility with your requested closing date, to working with an agent who has strong relationships in the local market, you can give yourself every opportunity to come out on top in a multiple bid scenario.

Always, always, always remember, especially in this marketplace, #WhoYouWorkWithMatters.


REAL ESTATE VIDEO SERIES - EPISODE 4
INTEREST RATE TRENDS

Although mortgage interest rates have recently been rising, it’s important to note that rates are still at historic lows. My good friend Nick Fratini, the branch manager of GMH Mortgage in West Chester, talks about interest rate trends and how they will affect you as a home buyer or a home seller.

Many people who are in the market to purchase a home want to know if waiting a few more months to save additional down payment money is a good strategy. In this video, Nick will answer that question and demonstrate why waiting may not be the best financial decision.

On the converse side, interest rates affect home sellers as well. With rates projected to trend upward over the coming months, a purchaser’s buying power won’t be as strong as it is today. This could potentially take them out of the market as a viable purchaser for your home.

If you’re in the market to either buy or sell a home, it’s a great time to talk to a Realtor. Always remember, #WhoYouWorkWithMatters.