Are you considering a move to Bucks County, Pennsylvania but feeling overwhelmed by the diverse mix of townships, boroughs, and home values?
This quick guide will explain exactly what realtors, home buyers and sellers need to know about the Bucks County real estate market.
The Bucks County real estate market is a beautiful mixture of charming historic towns, picturesque countryside, and established communities.
Whether you’re a first-time home buyer or preparing to sell your property, knowing your way around this historic county’s housing market is crucial for making informed decisions.
It’s a large, diverse county and it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the distinct characteristics of each area, from the quaint riverside towns to the more suburban developments, and everything in between.
This post is all about helping buyers and sellers navigate the Bucks County real estate market with confidence.
Understanding the Bucks County Real Estate Market
Bucks County offers an attractive blend of rural charm and suburban convenience.
Located northeast of Philadelphia, it provides excellent schools, extensive parks, historic sites, and diverse housing options while maintaining reasonable access to major employment centers.
Let me share a story about Sarah and Tom, recent clients who relocated from New York City looking to buy a house with more space. They needed an appraiser to help them understand the difference in market values.
They were drawn to Bucks County for its scenic beauty but didn’t understand the distinct characteristics of each township.
“We didn’t realize how different Doylestown was from Bensalem, or how property values could vary so dramatically between Newtown and Quakertown,” Sarah explained.
Understanding Bucks County Neighborhoods
Bucks County neighborhoods each have their unique character, style of home, amenities and price points.
Scroll down or simply tap the market area below to quickly see your housing market:
1. Lower Bucks County (Bristol, Levittown, Bensalem)
Price Range: This area offers more affordable options with a mix of older homes and newer developments at lower to middle-range price points.
Pros:
- Close to Philadelphia
- More affordable housing
- Easy access to I-95 and PA Turnpike
- Established neighborhoods
- Parx Casino and Racing
- Sesame Place theme park
- Delaware River access
Cons:
- Variable school ratings
- More densely populated
- Some areas need revitalization
- Industrial history impact
- Traffic congestion
Lower Bucks Housing Characteristics:
Lower Bucks features a mix of housing styles including:
- Ranchers
- Split-levels
- Townhomes
- Some historic properties
Most properties feature modest lot sizes, established neighborhoods, and varying levels of updates.
2. Central Bucks County (Doylestown, New Hope, Newtown)
Price Range: Known for its charming towns and historic properties, this region typically features upper-middle to high-end prices, with luxury properties and historic homes commanding premium prices.
Pros:
- Top-rated school districts
- Charming historic towns
- Vibrant arts scene
- Excellent dining options
- Picturesque countryside
- Delaware River towns
- Strong property values
- Bucks County Community College
- Delaware Valley University
- Michener Art Museum
Cons:
- Higher housing costs
- Competitive market
- Historic homes need maintenance
- Limited public transportation
- Tourist traffic in popular towns
- Parking challenges in town centers
Central Bucks Housing Characteristics:
The homes in Central Bucks include a diverse mix:
- Historic stone farmhouses
- Colonial revivals
- Victorian homes
- Luxury new construction
- Estate properties
- Upscale developments
Typical features include character details, larger lots, historic elements, and high-end finishes.
3. Upper Bucks County (Quakertown, Perkasie, Sellersville)
Price Range: Generally more affordable than Central Bucks, this area offers good value with a mix of rural properties, small towns, and newer developments at middle-range price points.
Pros:
- More land for your money
- Strong community feel
- Small town charm
- Lake Nockamixon State Park
- Palisades School District
- Growing restaurant scene
- Less congestion
- Good highway access
Cons:
- Longer commute to Philadelphia
- Fewer shopping options
- Limited nightlife
- Variable school ratings
- Less walkable communities
Upper Bucks Housing Characteristics:
Upper Bucks offers a variety of housing types:
- Farmhouses
- Country properties
- Traditional suburbs
- Historic town homes
- New construction developments
Properties often feature larger lots, rural settings, some historic options, and more affordable price points.
What You Need to Know Before Moving to Bucks County
The above neighborhoods are a sampling of what Bucks County has to offer.
Check out the Bucks County housing prices and how long it’s taking a home to sell. I update these stats every month.
For current, specific home values in any micro neighborhood, it’s best to consult with a certified appraiser to review recent comparable sales and market conditions.
Why Consult an Appraiser First?
Many buyers and sellers make the mistake of relying solely on online estimates or comparable sales they find themselves.
Here’s why consulting a real estate appraiser early makes sense:
For Buyers:
- Understand true market value before making offers
- Identify potential issues that could affect value
- Negotiate with confidence
- Avoid overpaying in competitive situations
For Sellers:
- Price your home correctly from the start
- Understand which improvements add the most value
- Avoid leaving money on the table
- Reduce time on market
Steps to Success in Bucks County Real Estate
Consult Professionals Early: Get an appraisal consultation, talk to a local real estate agent, and meet with a mortgage lender.
Understand Your Budget: Factor in property taxes, insurance, homeowners association fees, utilities, maintenance, and commuting costs.
Research Neighborhoods: Visit different areas at various times, consider commute times, train station access, future development plans, access to amenities, and research the crime statistics and school districts.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Not Understanding Township Regulations: Each municipality has different zoning laws, ordinances, and building codes.
- Ignoring Infrastructure Requirements: Septic systems or well water vs. public water considerations, and sewer fees.
- Overlooking Property Characteristics: Flood plain designations, conservation easements, deed restrictions, agricultural preservation zones, homeowner association rules.
- Misreading Market Dynamics: Each township has unique market trends.
Property Appraisal: What You Must Know Before Buying or Selling a House
By now, you should understand:
- The distinct characteristics of different regions of Bucks County
- Housing style variations and community amenities
- Why a professional appraisal matters
- Steps to make informed real estate decisions
Remember Sarah and Tom? They ultimately found their perfect home in Doylestown, balancing their desire for historic charm with access to amenities. “Having expert guidance made all the difference in understanding the local market,” Tom shared.
Next Steps
Whether you’re buying or selling property in Bucks County, start your real estate journey with accurate information and professional guidance. Contact us to understand true market values and make informed decisions in our unique real estate market.
This post is all about helping buyers and sellers navigate Bucks County’s diverse real estate market with confidence.
