As August unfolds, Philadelphia is navigating the ripple effects of July’s municipal strike, adjusting to evolving housing conditions, and riding a hot BUT subtly shifting market. This month’s newsletter unpacks these updates while showing how partnering with Shqiponja Likaj Realty means maximizing your peace of mind and investment value.
🗑️ Sanitation Strike: Resolved, But Ripples Return
The eight-day strike by AFSCME District Council 33, which began July 1, is officially over. A tentative agreement provides 3% raises annually over three years, with half of employees receiving an additional 2%—bringing cumulative pay increases to 14% over the mayor’s term. Curbside trash pickup resumed around mid-July, but full normalization across services may take some time.
📈 Housing Trends: Balanced Shift, Not a Swing
Let’s zoom in on Philadelphia’s market trending toward more balance this summer:
Inventory is up—June active listings rose ~9.5% year-over-year to around 4,500 in the city proper.
Price growth is modest: Philly listings in July rose a modest ~1.4%, with median list price around $289,000.
Renting in suburbs on the rise: Especially in suburbs like Cherry Hill and Main Line; rental demand is strong and multifamily builds are slowing.
🏡 Philly Real Estate Market: Still Hot, But Cooling Slightly
Zillow ranks Philadelphia among the nation’s top housing markets in 2025, thanks to its relative affordability and job growth. Inventory is down 46% compared to pre-pandemic levels, even though it’s up ~5.5% year-over-year—suggesting stronger but still constrained supply.
At Shqiponja Likaj Realty, your goals guide our strategy. Whether you’re buying, selling, or evaluating opportunities, our expertise helps you navigate today’s market balance—with clarity, confidence, and maximum value.
Let’s talk about your next smart move.
