Hillcrest Neighborhood Overview
Hillcrest is a quiet, residential neighborhood nestled in the far northwest corner of Philadelphia, bordering Montgomery County. Its location provides a distinct suburban feel within the city limits, characterized by winding, hilly streets, mature trees, and a strong sense of community. The area was largely developed in the mid-20th century, with many homes built in the post-World War II boom, attracting families seeking more space and a greener environment while maintaining a Philadelphia address.
The neighborhood is bounded roughly by Stenton Avenue to the east, Washington Lane to the south, and the county line to the north and west. This proximity to Cheltenham Township and Springfield Township (Montgomery County) influences its character, blending city accessibility with a quieter, more spacious atmosphere. Hillcrest is known for its stability and low crime rates, making it one of the city's hidden residential gems, often overshadowed by more centrally located neighborhoods.
Housing & Real Estate
Hillcrest's housing stock is predominantly composed of single-family homes, including Cape Cods, split-levels, colonials, and ranchers built from the 1940s through the 1960s. Lots are generally more generous than in rowhouse-dominated neighborhoods, featuring front and back yards that contribute to the area's leafy, suburban aesthetic. There are also some well-maintained twin homes and a limited number of small apartment buildings along the major corridors.
As a highly desirable neighborhood within the city, Hillcrest commands some of the highest real estate prices in Philadelphia, often comparable to nearby suburban markets. The market is primarily owner-occupied, with a high rate of homeownership. Recent trends show steady demand, with homes selling quickly, often after competitive bidding. Prices have seen consistent appreciation, driven by the neighborhood's safety, schools, and unique offering of suburban living with a city tax structure.
Schools & Education
Hillcrest is part of the Philadelphia School District but is uniquely served by the coveted Henry H. Houston Elementary School, a K-8 institution located within the neighborhood. Houston is consistently ranked among the top district schools in the city, known for strong academic performance and active parental involvement. This high-performing neighborhood school is a primary draw for families moving to the area.
For high school, students are zoned for Martin L. King High School, though many families also explore selective admission magnet schools, private schools, or options in nearby Montgomery County. The neighborhood is also in close proximity to several respected private and parochial schools in both Philadelphia and the suburbs, including Cheltenham Township schools for those living on the border, providing a range of educational choices for residents.
Parks & Recreation
Hillcrest is directly adjacent to one of Philadelphia's largest and most beloved green spaces: Fairmount Park's Northwestern Avenue section. This expansive parkland offers extensive trails for walking, running, and mountain biking through wooded areas, along with picnic groves and open fields. The nearby Carpenter's Woods, part of the Wissahickon Valley Park system, provides additional serene hiking opportunities just minutes away.
Within the neighborhood itself, multiple small playgrounds and pocket parks serve local families, including the Hillcrest Recreation Center, which features athletic fields, basketball courts, and a playground. The neighborhood's hilly topography and quiet streets also make it popular for walking and jogging. For golf enthusiasts, the historic Cedarbrook Country Club is situated at its western edge, adding to the recreational amenities.
Local Dining & Shopping
Hillcrest is primarily residential, so its commercial offerings are modest and focused on convenience. The main shopping corridor is along Stenton Avenue, which features essential services like a supermarket, pharmacies, and various small businesses. For a wider array of dining and retail, residents typically take short drives to nearby commercial hubs such as Chestnut Hill, Mount Airy, or the shopping centers of Cheltenham Township.
Chestnut Hill, just to the south, offers a vibrant main street with boutique shopping, diverse restaurants, and cafes. The neighborhood does have a few local staples, including classic pizza shops and casual takeout spots. For grocery needs, besides the Stenton Avenue options, the popular Weavers Way Co-op in Mount Airy and the Whole Foods in Plymouth Meeting are easily accessible, catering to the community's preferences for quality and organic products.
Who Lives Here
Hillcrest is predominantly home to established families, professionals, and long-term residents who value tranquility, safety, and excellent public schools. The community is known for being tight-knit and civically engaged, with active neighborhood associations and community groups that organize events and maintain the area's high standards. The population is largely middle to upper-middle class, with a significant number of homeowners who have lived in the neighborhood for decades.
New residents are often drawn by the unique combination of a top-tier Philadelphia school district elementary school and a suburban lifestyle rarely found within the city. The neighborhood also attracts empty-nesters looking to downsize without leaving the community they love, as well as professionals working in Center City or the northwestern suburbs who appreciate the easy commute via regional rail or the nearby expressways. The overall vibe is one of quiet stability and pride of place.
Top Real Estate Agents in Hillcrest, Philadelphia
29 agents met the full merit gate for Hillcrest, Philadelphia, PA, selected from over 70,000 licensed Pennsylvania professionals.
Contact
Phone: (619) 838-8090
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.sellsandiego.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Gregg%20Neuman
Why selected: Selected for his community tenure and leadership since 1981, which is paramount. He demonstrates elite performance with 2,782 career transactions, a, and consistent high-volume sales.
Notable Achievements
44 Years in Real Estate
2,782 Career Transactions
569 Five-Star Reviews
High-Volume Recent Performance
Luxury Market Experience
Verified Specialties
Foreclosure, Investment Properties, Luxury Homes[4]
Cities Served
San Diego
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (415) 509-7871
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://gregandjanetlewis.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Greg%20and%20Janet%20Lewis
Why selected: Selected for her two decades of dedicated community service and leadership roles, which is our highest-ranking criterion. She is further distinguished by her and of consistent market expertise.
Notable Achievements
5-Star Client Rating
21+ Years Experience
20+ Years Real Estate Experience
Over 20 Years Experience
125 Five-Star Reviews
Verified Specialties
Staging, First Time Homebuyers, first-time home buyers, seasoned movers, buyers and sellers, local market expertise, experienced property owners, residential real estate, buying and selling homes, local market knowledge[4]
Cities Served
Roseville
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (619) 977-8364
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.remaxmax.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/San%20Diego%20Home
Why selected: Selected for his strong community commitment, including supporting Children's Miracle Network and PTA/PTO involvement. He demonstrates top-tier performance and recognition as a producer since 2009.
Community & Leadership
supporter at Children's Miracle Network[6]
participant at PTA/PTO[6]
participant at Community Development[6]
Notable Achievements
U.S. Naval Academy Graduate
Navy Helicopter Pilot
R.E.A.L. Award Winner
RealTrends America's Best by Volume
#1 Producing RE/MAX Agent
U.S. News Top Producer
Top 1% Production Since 2009
Verified Specialties
Property Management, Rentals, luxury homes, investment properties, first-time homebuyers, military relocation, first-time buyers, investors, relocation services[4]
Cities Served
San Diego
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (858) 344-8478
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://jenniferzhengrealty.blogspot.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/JenniferZhengRealty
Why selected: Selected for her dedicated community engagement through an educational real estate blog that provides vital market and tax guidance. She combines this with a strong record of and a unique analytical background from her prior tech career.
Community & Leadership
Content Creator at Real Estate Community Education[6]
Educator at Homebuyer Education Initiative[6]
Notable Achievements
Perfect 5-Star Rating
Transaction Volume
Client Reviews
93 Five-Star Reviews
Over 200 Transactions Completed
Computer Science Master's Degree
Former Microsoft Software Engineer
Software Engineering Experience
Software Engineering Background
Master's Degree in Computer Science
200+ Successful Transactions
Former Software Engineer Transition
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Property Management, First Time Homebuyers, Investment Properties, Rentals, Luxury Homes, New Construction, price negotiation, property management, mortgage lending, investment properties, market analysis, school districts, bilingual service, Chinese-speaking clients, first-time buyers, residential sales, bilingual services, Residential sales, Property management, Mortgage lending, Bilingual services, Market analysis, First-time homebuyers, Investment properties, buyer representation, seller representation, Mortgage Lending, Market Analysis, Price Negotiation, Property Tax Appeals, First-time Homebuyers[4]
Cities Served
San Diego
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (760) 704-9500
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://amir.porchlightsocal.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/tfreshagent
Why selected: Selected for his role as a Professional Mentor within the Real Estate Community, demonstrating significant leadership. He combines this with a and over a decade of market expertise as a VA specialist.
Community & Leadership
Professional Mentor at Real Estate Community[6]
Notable Achievements
90 Five-Star Reviews
B.A. in Business Administration
5-Star Rating with 90 Reviews
SDAR Gold Award
SDAR Gold Award 2021
SDAR Gold Award 2022
Team Production Record
Zillow Premier Agent 2021-2025
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Military/Veterans, VA specialist, Buyer representation, Listing services, Customer service, Military clients, Customer service focused, Military families, Military buyers, Veterans, First-time buyers[4]
Cities Served
San Diego
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (954) 296-8044
Email: [email protected]
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/grayadler
Why selected: Selected for their dedicated community involvement and leadership roles. They combine this with strong performance metrics and professional expertise honed since 2015, ensuring clients receive trusted guidance.
Verified Specialties
Foreclosure, Property Management[4]
Cities Served
Hollywood
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (619) 807-8464
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.forsalesd.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/KindredRealEstate
Why selected: Selected for sustained community leadership and market excellence, and over two decades of expertise, Anthony Montroy stands out as a Zillow Premier Agent ranked #7 nationally for client service. His deep community involvement further demonstrates his commitment.
Community & Leadership
Community volunteer at Local community initiatives[6]
Notable Achievements
Over 20 Years Real Estate Experience
84 Five-Star Reviews
5-Star Client Rating
Co-founder of Kindred Realty
Top Customer Satisfaction Score
Zillow Premier Agent Top Customer Satisfaction
Zillow National Ranking #7
Zillow Premier Agent Recognition
Highest Customer Satisfaction Score in California
#7 Customer Satisfaction in United States
#7 Nationally for Customer Service
Verified Specialties
Relocation, customer service, client satisfaction, Customer service excellence, Residential real estate transactions, First-time homebuyer guidance, Luxury property negotiations, residential real estate, buyer representation, seller representation, luxury market, boutique brokerage services, market expertise[4]
Cities Served
San Diego
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (858) 229-1041
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://jeneanemason.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Jeneane%20Mason
Why selected: Selected for his foundational community leadership as founder of The Mason Foundation, which provides youth scholarships. This is supported by a strong performance record of and a decade of dedicated client service.
Community & Leadership
founder at The Mason Foundation[6]
Notable Achievements
10 Years Real Estate Experience
Founded The Mason Foundation
5-star rating across 69 reviews
Verified Specialties
Relocation, buyers, sellers, investors, buying, selling, investing[4]
Cities Served
San Diego
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: 619-289-2038
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.sandiegorealtyexperts.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/icardona
Why selected: Selected for dedicated community service and professional excellence, demonstrated through performance as a dustry agent and a disciplined, service-oriented background from her tenure in the US Navy.
Notable Achievements
US Navy Service
Top 5% Agent in San Diego County
Bachelor of Business Management
Top Producer at Big Block Realty
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Investment Properties, residential, buyers, sellers, investors[4]
Cities Served
San Diego
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (619) 300-9797
Email: [email protected]
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/gracelee%20sandiego
Why selected: Selected for dedicated community service and professional excellence, demonstrated through performance, and eight years of expert service. Her deep community involvement and commitment to professional development make her a standout agent in her market.
Community & Leadership
community volunteer at Local Community Programs[6]
Notable Achievements
Eight Years Real Estate Experience
8 Years Real Estate Experience
Five-Star Rating Achievement
Perfect 5-Star Rating
Perfect Rating Maintenance
5-Star Client Rating
Five-Star Client Reviews
Verified Specialties
residential real estate, buyer representation, seller representation, residential transactions, client representation[4]
Cities Served
San Diego
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (916) 283-7992
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.montalvoriversteam.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/sherrysells8
Why selected: Selected for her extensive community leadership and engagement, a top priority in our ranking. She combines this with of seasoned experience and a dedicated, client-focused performance record.
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Commercial Properties, First Time Homebuyers, Investment Properties[4]
Cities Served
Roseville
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (858) 345-7829
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.theenriquezgroup.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Vinnie%20Enriquez
Why selected: Selected for her dedicated mentorship within the Keller Williams network, elevating colleagues through professional development. She combines this community leadership with a strong and.
Community & Leadership
mentor at Keller Williams network[6]
Notable Achievements
Real Estate Career Longevity
12+ Years in Real Estate
12-Year Real Estate Career
51 Five-Star Reviews
5-Star Rating Achievement
Five-Star Client Reviews
12+ Years Real Estate Experience
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Foreclosure, New Construction, Residential sales, Client service, Market expertise, Real estate sales, Market knowledge, residential market, client satisfaction, team collaboration, residential real estate, buying guidance, selling guidance[4]
Cities Served
San Diego
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (858) 717-5513
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.tranlerealty.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/TranLeREALTOR
Why selected: Selected for her leadership in mentoring emerging agents and supporting the professional community. She combines a across and a finance-focused brokerage background.
Community & Leadership
Mentor at Real Estate Professional Community[6]
Notable Achievements
Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration
Perfect 5-Star Rating
Real Estate Broker License
Banking Experience
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Property Management, residential homes, financing, first-time buyers, investment properties[4]
Cities Served
San Diego
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (619) 602-2162
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.homesbyassaf.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/AssafAvissar
Why selected: Selected for his deep community involvement as a long-time resident and U.S.
Notable Achievements
5-Star Client Rating
Top Agent Recognition
Verified Specialties
metro properties, coastal properties[4]
Cities Served
San Diego
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (619) 990-2297
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://dianesullivanrealty.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Diane%20Sullivan
Why selected: Selected for her deep community involvement and leadership roles, combined with of expertise and demonstrating exceptional client service.
Notable Achievements
43 Five-Star Reviews
20 Years Real Estate Experience
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Foreclosure, Residential, Buyers, Sellers, Coastal properties, Central San Diego[4]
Cities Served
San Diego
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (661) 281-5373
Email: [email protected]
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/The%20Kessler%20Group
Why selected: Selected for his deep community ties and professional leadership roles. He is further distinguished by and, demonstrating consistent client satisfaction.
Notable Achievements
22 Years in Real Estate
41 Five-Star Reviews
Verified Specialties
Foreclosure, Property Management, First Time Homebuyers, Investment Properties, Rentals, residential real estate, buying, selling[4]
Cities Served
Bakersfield
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (858) 298-5866
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.angelabumgarner.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/AngelaBumgarnerSold
Why selected: Selected for her dedicated community involvement and leadership roles, Angela Bumgarner pairs this with a. Her expertise in market analysis and negotiation delivers proven results for clients.
Notable Achievements
5-Star Client Rating
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Property Management, buyers, sellers, negotiation, marketing, residential real estate, local market expertise[4]
Cities Served
San Diego
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (619) 298-0330
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.marcaaronrealtors.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Marc%20Aaron%20Realtors
Why selected: Selected for his expertise, and pioneering SRES designation. His finance background and specialized service to seniors distinguish him in the market.
Community & Leadership
Board Member at San Diego Association of Realtors[6]
Committee Member at Seniors Real Estate Specialist Council[6]
Volunteer Advisor at Local Senior Services Non-Profit[6]
Mentor at Real Estate Brokerage Training Program[6]
Notable Achievements
Real Estate Broker License
Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES) Designation
Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance
26 Five-Star Reviews
Verified Specialties
Investment Properties, Rentals, Senior Communities, seniors, fiduciaries, all property types, concierge-style services, personalized service[4]
Cities Served
San Diego
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (858) 952-2216
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.lyonrealestategroup.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Drew%20Lyon
Why selected: Selected for his leadership as owner/broker of Avanti Real Estate and his team's quantifiable performance, including a and hundreds of sales in two years.
Notable Achievements
Owner and Broker at Avanti Real Estate
5-Star Client Rating
Hundreds of Property Sales
Verified Specialties
Foreclosure, Staging, Property Management, residential real estate, foreclosures, short sales, distressed properties, property flipping, vacation rentals, property management, distressed assets[4]
Cities Served
San Diego
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (619) 249-6754
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.gilbert.viewsandiegoareahomes.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/gilbertreynosa
Why selected: Selected for and consistent performance, including over a decade. His expertise in property management and featured market analysis further distinguishes his professional profile.
Notable Achievements
49 Career Transactions
Real Estate Degree
Perfect 5-Star Rating
Professional Certifications
High-Value Market Expertise
Verified Specialties
Property Management[4]
Cities Served
San Diego
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (760) 522-3355
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.homesbyandrea.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/andrea220
Why selected: Selected for her significant community involvement via the Heroes Rebate Program, which supports military, first responders, and educators. She further demonstrates excellence and of market expertise.
Community & Leadership
founder/provider at Heroes Rebate Program[6]
Notable Achievements
California Real Estate License
24 Five-Star Reviews
12 Years Experience
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Staging, luxury properties, investments, personalized service, military personnel, first responders, teachers, healthcare workers[4]
Cities Served
San Diego
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (408) 461-0924
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.gregwarrickrealestate.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/gregwarrick
Why selected: Selected for his deep community involvement, developing subdivisions and building large country properties that shape the local area. His career features top performance, ranking in the worldwide and top 100 in Silicon Valley.
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Investment Properties, New Construction, Lot/Land[4]
Cities Served
Roseville
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (619) 933-0152
Email: [email protected]
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Alex%20Yure1
Why selected: Selected for his dedicated community involvement and leadership roles, Alexander Yure also delivers. His expertise ensures smooth, successful transactions for buyers and sellers.
Notable Achievements
5-star client rating
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Foreclosure, Investment Properties, Rentals, buyers, sellers, negotiation, property valuation, homeownership[4]
Cities Served
San Diego
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (916) 869-2798
Email: [email protected]
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/heatherbarnesrealtor
Why selected: Selected for her leadership as a local Chamber of Commerce board member and PTA volunteer. She combines this community commitment with a across 200+ client reviews.
Cities Served
Roseville
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (619) 300-4400
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.sdhomeowner.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Ann%20Amaral
Why selected: Selected for her deep community involvement as a local resident, combined with 27 years of experience and a perfect record.
Notable Achievements
27 Years of Service
Five-Star Rating
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Rentals, buyers, sellers, problem solving, client goals[4]
Cities Served
San Diego
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (619) 435-8700
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.amysellssandiego.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/AmySandersRealtor
Why selected: Selected for her deep community roots and nearly two decades of local market experience. She maintains a and specializes in guiding clients through complex transactions.
Community & Leadership
Chairman at California Mid State Region Servicecommitee[6]
Notable Achievements
Perfect 5-Star Rating
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Property Management, buyers, sellers, bank owned properties, short sales, distressed properties, negotiation[4]
Cities Served
San Diego
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (858) 224-2443
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.thecollectivesandiego.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/aprilguerieri
Why selected: Selected for her career and strong community involvement, April Lee Guerieri also demonstrates proven excellence with a.
Notable Achievements
16 Years of Real Estate Experience
High Client Satisfaction Rating
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Staging, Property Management, residential real estate, client service, personalized service[4]
Cities Served
San Diego
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (619) 929-9165
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.homesbyerikasd.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/erikadeanda1
Why selected: Selected for her career and, demonstrating consistent client satisfaction and strong negotiation skills.
Notable Achievements
20 Years in Real Estate
Perfect 5-Star Rating
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Property Management, Investment Properties, honest communication, aggressive negotiation, client advocacy[4]
Cities Served
San Diego
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (619) 337-4779
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.carrascogroupre.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/maria8353
Why selected: Selected for his deep community involvement and leadership, Asa F Carrasco also delivers client service. His strategic Silicon Valley expertise further distinguishes his professional profile.
Notable Achievements
Perfect 5-Star Rating
Silicon Valley Professional Background
Verified Specialties
buyer representation, seller services, client service, market knowledge, professional networking[4]
Cities Served
San Diego
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).