CAMDEN, N.J. (KYW Newsradio) — Officials in Camden are celebrating the continued increase in market-rate housing sales, saying some of the fastest growing ZIP codes in the Philadelphia region are in Camden.
A brand-new duplex on North 21st Street recently sold for more than $350,000 per unit—thousands above asking price. It looks like it’s taken straight out of Fishtown with its modern black garage, grey stone facade and white siding.
“This is the site of a former fire-damaged and abandoned property. The former building was a nuisance for many, many years to this neighborhood,” said Mayor Vic Carstarphen.
He says the city’s actions are giving investors more confidence to build.
“And I don’t want to leave no one behind, and I always say there’s opportunity everywhere for growth,” the mayor said.
Carstarphen cited a Zillow report on recent data that found Camden real estate is some of the hottest in the Philly metro area.
Councilwoman Jeanette Ramos says it’s a time of great pride for lifelong Camden residents like herself.
“From the infrastructure improvements to the public safety initiatives, we’re creating an environment where families and businesses feel secure and supported,” Ramos said.
Developer Lance Bean is a Camden native and says they are far from done building.
“We intend to pop up as many of these throughout the city as we can,” said Bean.
Carstarphen says more homes means more opportunities for both new and longtime residents. And he says he welcomes anyone who wants to help in the city’s revival.