First-Time Buyer’s Guide to Fishtown

Real advice from a Philly Realtor who actually works here

Fishtown is one of those neighborhoods people move to and then act like they “discovered it.”

You didn’t.

But that’s okay.

If you’re thinking about buying your first home in Fishtown, this guide will walk you through what actually matters — pricing, property types, competition, and whether it’s smart long-term.

I’m Brett Rosenthal with Revolve Philly Group. I sell in Fishtown. I know the blocks. Let’s break it down.

Where Is Fishtown in Philadelphia?

Fishtown sits just north of Northern Liberties and runs along the Delaware River. It borders:

• Northern Liberties

• Old City

• Kensington

It’s centered around Frankford Avenue — the restaurant, coffee, and nightlife corridor that made Fishtown famous.

You’re:

• 10–15 minutes to Center City

• Close to I-95

• Near public transit (Market-Frankford Line)

Location is a huge reason buyers love it.

Is Fishtown a Good Neighborhood for First-Time Buyers?

Yes — but it depends on your personality and your budget.

Fishtown works well for first-time buyers who want:

• A lively neighborhood

• Walkability

• Strong resale demand

• Modern homes with rooftop decks

It may not work as well if:

• You want quiet suburban vibes

• You hate street parking

• You’re stretching financially just to say you live there

This isn’t 2013 Fishtown anymore. It’s matured — and pricing reflects that.

What Types of Homes Do First-Time Buyers Buy in Fishtown?

🧱 Classic Rowhomes

• Older Philly homes

• Some fully renovated, some “creative” flips

• Often best value per square foot

🏙️ New Construction Townhomes

• Rooftop decks

• Open layouts

• Higher price points

• Strong buyer demand

🏢 Condos

• Less common than in Old City

• Lower entry price (sometimes)

• HOA fees apply

Reality: A lot of first-time buyers here end up in smaller renovated rowhomes or newer 2–3 bedroom townhomes.

How Much Does It Cost to Buy a Home in Fishtown?

Pricing depends heavily on:

• Proximity to Frankford Ave

• Parking

• Outdoor space

• Condition

• Block reputation

Homes that are:

• Fully renovated

• Move-in ready

• Priced correctly

…tend to move quickly.

Buyers who hesitate often lose the best ones.

Step-by-Step: Buying Your First Home in Fishtown

1️⃣ Get a Real Pre-Approval

Not “Zillow says I can afford this.”

An actual lender letter.

2️⃣ Decide What You’ll Compromise On

Parking? Outdoor space? Price?

Pick two.

3️⃣ Understand the Block

Some blocks are quieter.

Some are lively.

Some are… evolving.

Block-level knowledge matters here.

4️⃣ Write a Competitive Offer

Price is important.

Terms and timing are often more important.

5️⃣ Inspect Everything

Yes, even new construction. Especially new construction.

Common First-Time Buyer Mistakes in Fishtown

• Falling in love before checking resale value

• Overpaying for cosmetic finishes

• Ignoring parking realities

• Thinking every “new build” is built the same

Not all rooftops are created equal.

Fishtown vs Northern Liberties vs Old City

If you’re comparing neighborhoods:

• Northern Liberties = slightly more mixed housing styles

• Old City = more condo-heavy, historic vibe

• Fishtown = strongest lifestyle branding + modern builds

Each neighborhood requires a slightly different buying strategy.

Is Fishtown a Good Investment?

Historically, yes.

Reasons:

• Strong demand

• Limited inventory

• High rental appeal

• Consistent neighborhood growth

But buying smart still matters. Not every listing is a great deal.

Why Work With Brett Rosenthal & Revolve Philly Group?

Fishtown is competitive.

If you don’t understand pricing trends, you’ll either overpay — or lose.

When you work with Brett Rosenthal at Revolve Philly Group, you get:

• Block-by-block insight

• Honest feedback (even when it hurts)

• Strategic offer guidance

• First-time buyer education without pressure

No hype. Just smart buying.

FAQs About Buying in Fishtown

Is Fishtown safe?

Like most city neighborhoods, safety varies by block, but it’s considered one of Philadelphia’s most desirable and active areas.

Are homes in Fishtown overpriced?

Some are.

Well-priced homes move fast. Overpriced homes sit.

Can first-time buyers afford Fishtown?

Many can — especially with smaller rowhomes or smart budgeting — but it requires realistic expectations.

Thinking About Buying in Fishtown?

If you’re choosing between Fishtown, Northern Liberties, Old City, or somewhere else in Philadelphia, the smartest move is understanding strategy — not just scrolling listings.

👉 Contact Brett Rosenthal at Revolve Philly Group

Let’s build a plan that fits your life — not just your Instagram feed.