Chester, despite some of the comments made prior to mine, is certainly worth a look. 22nd Street, especially, is in one of what is considered one of the more desirable areas (1st ward).

There are many redevelopment projects happening that will influence the future of property values in the Chester market:

Crossroads at Widener: a new hotel and retail center across from Widener University is underway.
Chester Towers: demolished, 4 new mid-rise buildings to replace the former hi-rise eyesores.
Waterfront Redevelopment: Professional Soccer stadium, new homes, and commercial areas
Movie Studio: Pacifica Ventures is building a hollywood-style movie production facility in Chester Township (which is likely to bring an estimated 2000 new jobs to the region)
Harrahs Casino: Brings an estimated 15,000 visitors DAILY to the city.

Perhaps the best news is the Chester Community Grocery Co-op. A coalition of families in the area have come together to provide a full service grocery to the city (which has not had a grocery store in over 15years.) (see the web reference below for more details)

The momentum for Chester is forward-moving. Property values have continued to increase. Companies that have moved to Chester are succeeding. Despite the negative reports, Chester is not all drug dens and gun violence. I am not spouting a "positive spin." I live nearby, and frequently attend worship in Chester. I regularly take my twin 5-yr old boys to play in Chester Park. I shop regularly in Chester, and attend a Christian Businessman's Breakfast weekly in Chester. Some of the finest people I know live or work in Chester.

The school district is getting an overhaul, and the charter schools are doing well. (The new Chester School for the Arts is opening this year.)

Don't let the nay-sayers make your decision for you. Learn about the area, weigh the good and the bad, and decide for yourself.

If you ask people about investments, they will tell you to "buy low, sell high." Right now, Chester property values are about the lowest in the County, and are climbing. I expect (though I cannot predict, of course) that because of all the money flowing into Chester, there will be considerable upward movement in the marketplace, and there could likely be a substantial appreciation on Chester properties in the following years.

Better then what? Does the home bide well for what you will be using it for.

Chester is a rough area. Spend some time in the area where you are looking at get a fell for yourself.

Irina: a good realtor not onlywill provide you with information about housing trends and sales,and issues related to the community, but they will encourage you to educate yourself by providing you with links to various internet and other resources.

More than that, you need to like what you buy. Go in with your eyes wide open. Check out the area at different times of the day.

Does this location meet your needs? Where do YOU plan to be in 5 years? No doubt you've heard snippets about casinos and soccer fields and other initiatives in the area - keep on top of them with the help of your realtor .

Don't hesitate to be in touch if I can help

Buying a house is always a good idea. Where to buy your house depends on many factors such as proximity to work, the local schools and what type of housing you are looking for. Is it a primary residence or an investment property that you are looking for? This sometimes makes a difference. Whatever you decide, make sure that you contact a Realtor who specializes in that area of Delaware County.

We as realtors cannot steer you to or away from a location. You need to make decisions on what you purchase based on facts, not opinion. Contact a local realtor to find out resale values, market trends, etc. Contact the local government agencies to find out what future plans are for the city if you are concerned about development, etc.

Chester - only if you like gambling with your money and your life. You will quickly loose your designations of "pro". High risk should = high reward ... not to be found there. It's way off the map of location location location. Would you or anyone you know or even want to assiciate with every want to live or do business there? It's the dead zone.

Hello Irina.
Please feel free to contact me so we can discuss this in detail. Unfort. we as agents dont have a crystal ball as much as I would love to. Your situation depends on a few factors which we can discuss.
Have a great holiday