Elegant Simplified Living

Athertyn Main Line Enrichment Series - Inside the Philadelphia International Flower Show

2012-02-07T13:11:00.000-05:00

Inside the Philadelphia International Flower Show 2012

As part of the on going Enrichment Series, the Athertyn team and the Pohlig Organization are inviting people to take a trip to Hawaii without getting on a plane! See Behind the Scenes of the Philadelphia Flower Show, where this year's theme is Hawaii. Our guest speaker, Francesca Northrup, Vice-Chair of the Philadelphia Horticultural Society will give us some insight into what it takes to put this magnificent show together. What a great way to welcome Spring!

Francesca Northrup, Vice-Chair of the Philadelphia Horticultural Society will be guest speaker at the next Athertyn Enrichment Series

This event will be held Wednesday, Feb 15th, 2012 from 7:30 to 9:00 pm at the Athertyn Clubhouse, 7700 Parkview Drive, Haverford, PA. Those interested in attending this event can R.S.V.P. to Carrie Sullivan at 610-647-4700 or send an email to info@athertyn.com to reserve a seat.

People In Action - Don Pohlig

2012-01-18T11:36:00.000-05:00

Since 1975 Pohlig Builders has been serving the Main Line community as one of the leading custom home builders in the nation by successfully adapting their products to the needs of today’s clients and their dynamic lifestyles. Yet, who are the visionary masterminds behind this innovative firm? Meet Don Pohlig, co-owner of Pohlig Builders and business pioneer since high school when he first entered into the building business. A self-starter, Don was managing his own framing business of 20+ employees by the age of 21. Today Don helps lead this award-winning firm along side brother Todd, as he directly oversees day-to-day business operations, product design, sales, contract estimates, construction, and warranty.

Don Pohlig, Principal of Pohlig Builders

A man who many friends and family members might describe as your modern-day renaissance man, Don practices many hobbies outside of work which demonstrate his unique blend of creative and competitive capabilities. Don takes on many roles from becoming a competing sailor at a very young age, to a car enthusiast by his twenty’s. Nowadays, you can find Pohlig at home water and oil color painting – an activity Don considers to be his “winter sport” and in his spare time in the summer he spends it on the golf course.

Don Pohlig plays a round of golf on the high definition golf simulator at the Resident's Clubhouse at Athertyn at Haverford Reserve

Don’s wide range of interests and expertise truly speaks to his ability to serve such a wide range of clientele and their differing needs. Pohlig’s array of knowledge has allowed him to offer his clients a variety of product offerings. Recent projects include beautiful kitchen renovations, modestly-sized to the remarkable custom homes, and amazing outdoor entertainment spaces – complete with pools, fireplaces, and fully-equipped kitchens, which have enabled property owners to transform their living space. In addition, Pohlig has truly served baby boomers in their desire to right size and simplify living through the establishment of Pohlig’s Athertyn at Haverford Reserve.

Don Pohlig on the grill at one of Athertyn at Haverford Reserve's meet your neighbor events

When you are ready to transform your home – or build a new one – let Don show you how the Pohlig touch can bring your vision to life and create beautiful spaces for the most important moments of your life.

Tips for Handling Extreme Cold Weather

2012-01-05T12:57:00.000-05:00

As the temperatures dip during this time of year, it is crucial to be prepared for an extreme cold weather emergency for both our homes and our bodies. A major risk as temperatures drop is that of a house fire. As our home heating unit may not be adequate to handle the heat or do not work entirely due to a power outage, we try to compensate with other means of heating our homes, putting us at a higher risk.

Preparing Your Home

Here are some tips on preparing your home for extreme cold:
•    Have your furnace, chimney and flue inspected by a professional each year to make sure that they are in working order and there are no cracks or defects that have developed that could put your family at risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
•    Use only indoor approved supplemental heating devices. Using propane burners or other devices meant for outdoor use can put you at risk of either fire or carbon monoxide poisoning.
•    Using your stove or oven to heat your home is not recommended.
•    If using a fireplace, kerosene heater, or wood stove to supplement the heat in your home, make sure you have smoke detectors installed and check the batteries at least once a month. Never use coal or paper to fuel a fireplace. Make sure to use a screen large enough to catch all sparks.
•    Make sure all heating devices are well ventilated.
•    Portable heaters should be kept well away from any flammable materials.
•    Never leave portable heaters unattended.
•    Use only the recommended fuel for your portable heater.
•    If using an electric portable heater, plug it directly into the wall and avoid using an extension cord. Make sure the cord is not a trip hazard as it may be unexpected if in a well traveled area.
•    Never place a portable heater on top of a piece of furniture.
•    Insulate any water lines that run along exterior walls. These can freeze in extremely cold weather.
•    Use battery powered lights instead of candles in a power outage if possible.
•    In a power outage, avoid using a generator indoors.
•    Keep plenty of extra water on hand in the event of a pipe line freeze.
•    If your pipes do freeze, use a hair dryer or electrical tape to thaw them. Avoid using propane torches to thaw a frozen pipe.
•    Close off unneeded rooms to conserve heat energy and stuff towels or rags under the doors to seal the room off.
•    Make sure all members of the household know what to do in the event of a fire.
•    Keep emergency supplies on hand such as:
     o    Extra batteries
     o    A battery powered radio
     o    Blankets
     o    Any necessary medicines
     o    First-aid kit
     o    Dry or canned food that does not need to be cooked or refrigerated
     o    Extra bottled water
     o    A non-electric can opener
     o    A multipurpose fire extinguisher
     o    Extra fuel for your heating devices

Preparing Yourself

In extreme cold conditions, our bodies are prone to damage and eventually, death if exposed long enough. Elderly and infants are especially vulnerable to cold temperatures. The older we get, the harder it is for us to feel drops in temperatures and we may be at risk for exposure. Infants cannot increase their own body temperatures by shivering. This is only something that adults can do.

Preparing for extreme cold is the best thing to do:

•    Dress warmly, this includes:
     o    Several layers of loose clothing
     o    Water resistant outer wear
     o    A hat
     o    A scarf or something to cover the face
     o    Mittens instead of gloves if possible
•    Drink warm, non-caffeinated, non-alcoholic beverages to stay warm. Caffeine and alcohol cause your body to lose heat faster. Warm, sweet drinks help maintain the body’s temperature.
•    Avoid going outside, especially if it is windy. This can lower your body temperature quickly.
•    Keep dry. If your clothing gets wet, change to dry clothing immediately.
•    If you start to shiver, find a way to get warm immediately.
•    Observe the weather for wind chill factors. Know what the “feels like” temperature is before going outdoors.
•    Hypothermia is when your body loses heat faster than it is produced. Be able to recognize the symptoms:
     o    Shivering
     o    Exhaustion
     o    Sleepiness
     o    Confusion
     o    Slurred speech
     o    Memory loss
•    Know that hypothermia can occur at temperatures above 40 degrees if exposed long enough.
•    Monitor your temperature if you suspect hypothermia. If your temperature is below 95 degrees, seek emergency help immediately.
•    If your exposed skin turns a white or grayish-yellow color, frostbite may be setting in. Another symptom is if your skin is extra firm. Hypothermia is a more serious condition than frostbite and should be treated first. However, when frost bite is suspected without hypothermia:
     o    Get warm as soon as possible
     o    Don’t walk on frostbitten feet
     o    Do not massage the affected area, envelope the area with warm skin with out moving. i.e. putting frostbitten fingers under the armpit
     o    Immerse the damaged area in warm water. Do not use an external heat source such as a stove, heater, etc. to warm the skin.

Preparing Your Pets

If left outside in extreme cold conditions, some pets can suffer hypothermia just as humans do. Bring your pets indoors with you during extreme cold if possible. If not the warmer living area, the basement or heated garage would be better than the outdoors. If pets must be kept outside, moving them closer to the home against a wall or in a car port where they can be sheltered from the cold and wind will help. Make sure pets kept outdoors during the cold have a good unfrozen water supply.

Sources:

U. S. Department of Health and Human Services Center for Disease Control and Prevention

Red Cross

Pacific Gas and Electric Company

Athertyn Enrichment Series welcomes bestselling author Lisa Scottoline

2011-12-16T14:56:00.000-05:00

Athertyn residents and guests enjoyed a special visit with award-winning writer Lisa Scottoline on December 7 at the residents' clubhouse at Athertyn at Haverford Reserve. Scottoline, a University of Pennsylvania graduate who still resides in the Philadelphia area, delivered an informal and interactive presentation that touched on life, her writing career, and her new book, "Best Friends and Occasional Enemies," a collection of essays about the relationship between a mother and daughter.

Lisa Scottoline and Athertyn resident Ollie Davidson at the Athertyn Enrichment Series featuring Lisa and her new book "Best Friends and Occasional enemies"

True to her reputation, Scottoline was a friendly and approachable speaker whose warm, outgoing personality resonated with everyone in attendance. Rather than read directly from her book, Scottoline talked about how she first began writing after the birth of her child and now feels that she is living the American Dream, doing what she loves to do. A great crowd turned out despite the torrential rain that night, and the atmosphere inside the clubhouse was cozy and inviting. Guests participated in a lively Q&A with Scottoline and stayed to socialize even after the presentation ended.

Typically, the resident’s clubhouse at Athertyn at Haverford Reserve is a place where residents can kick back and relax or socialize with friends, however it also serves as the venue for the Athertyn Enrichment Series where guests can experience and enjoy new things

Now nearing the end of its first year, the popular Athertyn Enrichment Series gives attendees first-hand access to artists, performers, and scholars who share their knowledge and talents in a relaxed, intimate setting. Past events have included an Alfred Hitchcock presentation by Andrew J. Douglas, Ph.D., of the Bryn Mawr Film Institute; a discussion with Tim Chambers, the writer, producer and director of "The Mighty Macs"; and a 90-minute "Around the World" wine tasting trip with Zach Morris, a certified sommelier instructor from the award-winning Wine School of Philadelphia.

The library/conference room at the Athertyn at Haverford Reserve clubhouse is a place where residents can enjoy a good book or have club meetings with friends

"The Athertyn Enrichment Series has been extremely well-received by the Athertyn community," said builder Todd Pohlig. "Our buyers are at a stage in their lives where they are able to pursue the activities and interests that they have put off in the past. Many of our Athertyn residents share a great passion for learning and experiencing new things, and the Enrichment Series has been a fantastic way to bring that ongoing sense of adventure and self-discovery to the community. "

The clubhouse at Athertyn at Haverford Reserve

Admission to events in the Athertyn Enrichment Series is free, but reservations are required. For more information, call 610-525-5110 or visit www.athertyn.com and click on "Enrichment Series Events."

Home Builders Association of Chester and Delaware Counties Annual Toy Drive

2011-12-09T14:49:00.001-05:00

The HBA's Annual Toy Drive benefits The Salvation Army of West Chester. The drive starts December 7th and ends on December 14th at 1 pm.

Chester and Delaware Counties Home Builders Association's Annual Toy Drive to benefit The Salvation Army. You can make a difference to a child this Holiday Season.

Please drop off your "Unwrapped" New Toys, Books, Games, CD's and Musical Instruments to the HBA's office located at 1502 McDaniel Drive, Westtown Business Center, West Chester on Tuesday, December 13 from 1 – 4 pm or Thursday, December 14 from 9 – 1 or at Pohlig Builders, 274 Lancaster Avenue, Suite 100, Paoli, daily from 8 am – 4 pm weekdays.

You can make a difference to a child this Holiday Season.

The Salvation Army benefits adults as well as children. From helping the homeless or uplifting spirits of the abused to training and mentoring the disadvantaged and assisting the elderly, The Salvation Army has always had the same goal: "Serving the most people, meeting the most needs, doing the most good!"

The Salvation Army West Chester Corps Community Center
101 E. Market Street
West Chester, PA 19380
610 – 696 - 8746

Visit them online

Local Non-Profit Organization Helps with the Development of Emergency Training Facilities

2011-11-17T10:31:00.002-05:00

When not busy building homes including projects such as Athertyn at Haverford Reserve, The Pohlig Companies' very own Todd Pohlig lends his expertise to the Chester County Economic Development Council (CCEDC). The council has been helping businesses grow in the region for over fifty years. Todd has been involved with the organization since 1997 and serves on the Board of Directors. He also participates on the Redevelopment Sub-Committee dedicated to the revitalization of southern U. S. Route 1 to further enhance the economic growth of that area of Chester County.

Todd Pohlig of The Pohlig Companies serves on the Board of Directors of the Chester County Economic Development Council

Recently, the CCEDC has been involved in the development of an emergency training facility in Coatesville, PA. Although, Chester County has benefited from much advancement, it currently does not have a facility to train first-responders so they have to travel to other counties for their training. That will all change with the help of the CCEDC, Arcelor Mittal steel who donated the land for the center, and the Brandywine Health Foundation who also donated $600,000 towards the project.

The CCEDC is located in Eagleview Corporate Center and offers state-of-the-art training and conference facilities designed for the development of local towns. The CCEDC is partially funded by a grant from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of Community and Economic Development.

References:

http://www.cceconomicdevelopment.com/

http://philadelphia.cbslocal.com/2011/10/31/local-organization-donates-big-bucks-toward-chesco-training-facility/

Funding Granted for Development of Darby Creek Trail in Haverford

2011-11-09T11:51:00.001-05:00

On Thursday the 27th of October, the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission’s Board of Directors granted Haverford Township money needed to expand the Haverford Township trail system. The plan is to build a one mile stretch of multi-use trail from Glendale Park along Darby Creek to just south of West Chester Pike at the school district bus depot.

A future multi-use trail will stretch from Haverford Reserve, south to Burmont Road allowing local residents to take full advantage of the beauty of the Haverford Township landscape.

The paved trail will serve hikers and bikers and will also accommodate strollers and wheelchairs. Eventually, the plan is to extend the trail northward to Haverford Reserve where an existing trail system is in place and a new environmental center is under development. The current trail system provides over 5 miles of hiking and biking for local residents along with an enclosed dog park. Haverford Reserve consists of 120 acres of preserved parkland and 45 acres of township recreation fields as well as the Freedom Playground. When complete, the trail system will extend from the trail head at Athertyn at Haverford Reserve and extend southward to a trail head at Burmont Road.

The development of the Haverford Reserve trail systems helps promote exercise and fitness as well as alternative means of transportation for local residents.

The organization Friends of Haverford Trails has been established to help develop and maintain the trail network in Haverford Township. Volunteers are welcome and more information can be found at www.haverfordciviccouncil.org/friendsoftrails.

References: http://www.delconewsnetwork.com/articles/2011/11/07/news_of_delaware_county/news/doc4eb2a9e22372f666809681.txt?viewmode=fullstory

http://www.haverfordciviccouncil.org/friendsoftrails/blog/darbycreektrailconstructiongrantawarded

Has There Ever Been a Better Time to Buy a Home? - A Message from Larry Flick

2011-10-20T14:07:00.002-04:00

You may be asking yourself, “Is now a good time to buy a house?” It can be a very difficult decision to make and there are several factors to consider. Larry Flick the Chairman and CEO of Prudential Fox & Roach, Realtors as well as The Trident Group, gives some points to consider when making the decision to purchase a home:

• Would a different home better meet your needs under your present personal circumstances?

• Do you feel secure in your job?

• Would you like the security of a long term investment?

• Do you like to save money?

• Would you like more control over your future?

Larry says that if you answer mostly “Yes” to these questions, then the now is the right time to purchase a home. House prices and interest rates are at their lowest since the 1950s. Forecasts predict that prices may drop even more next year and you may wonder if it is better to wait until then. Fact is, there is no guarantee that the prices will drop more, it would only be an assumption. The bigger question is, will the interest rates stay the same? The rates are currently at an incredibly low point historically. However, they may rise over the next year. Taking advantage of this now would mean lower mortgage payments which could potentially save you more over the long run if you plan on staying in your home a while.

If you already own a home, and ask yourself “Is now the right time to sell?” Again, Larry suggests applying the same above questions and if the answer is “Yes”. Then now is the right time to sell your home. Again, just as we cannot assume that house prices will drop more, we also cannot assume that they will rise over the next few years either.

So take the time to answer the above questions while considering that fact that both home prices and interest rates are at a historic low. Then you can make the decision that will move you into a brighter future.

For more information and regional sales reports, read Larry Flick’s article “Has There Ever Been a Better Time?” – Fall 2011 Chairman’s Report for more information.

New floorplans and pricing are available at Athertyn at Haverford Reserve

NAHB: Guide to Buying a Home

2011-10-14T13:24:00.000-04:00

From the NAHB:

If you are thinking of buying a new home, you must pay close attention to many details to ensure that you find one that will suit your needs and preferences. Before you start shopping, you should sit down with the members of your household to discuss your preferences and the many options available to you. Here are some things you should consider:

Financing

How much can you afford? Visit our “Financing Your Home” section for resources and tools to help you learn about mortgages, obtaining financing, insurance and other useful information.

Features

An easy way to organize your thoughts is to write each separate feature that you want on a 3X5 card, and arrange the cards in order of their importance to you. For instance, if you like to cook, you may want a home with a large, well-equipped kitchen. Or you may settle for a small kitchen, so that you can have extra space for a library, office, or computer room. Some home buyers seek large, open interior spaces, while others prefer traditional rooms that afford more privacy. Some choose homes with large yards. Others opt for condominiums where they can avoid yard maintenance entirely.

While looking for a home, consider whether your needs are likely to change over time. If you plan to add rooms, find out if there is enough space on your site for such expansion and whether such additions are permitted by your local jurisdiction.

Management

Options include single-family homes, condominiums or cooperatives. With a single-family home in a development, you'll be responsible for your own yard and home, but may be restricted to certain design elements or other regulations if there is a home owners association.

A condominium is a home in a multi-unit complex, such as an apartment building or a townhouse cluster. You own the home, and you and your neighbors jointly own the common elements, such as the land around the complex, the parking areas, building exteriors, hallways, utility pipes and recreational facilities. A condominium owners association is responsible for maintaining the jointly owned elements. The day-to-day business of the complex is generally handled by a managing agency.

The owner of each condominium unit has a vote in the affairs of the community. Each owner pays a fee to cover the operating expenses of the property and usually contributes to a reserve fund for replacements (such as a new roof) or improvements (such as decorative landscaping to improve the value of the property). Changes and improvements to the complex may be made only as you and your co-owners desire. You are responsible for maintaining the interior of your condominium unit. Typically, you will not have to perform outdoor chores.

Cooperatives offer lifestyles similar to condominiums, but rather than owning your unit, you own shares of the stock of the complex. Stock owners are jointly liable for the cooperative's debts.

For more information visit www.nahb.org

Ownership in the condominium community of Athertyn at Haverford Reserve offers amenities such as a stylish clubhouse, swimming pool, fitness center, tennis court, meeting rooms, game rooms, indoor golf simulator and putting green!

Historic Highlight: Athertyn Wins Two National Awards in the Best of 50+ Housing Competition

2011-10-05T11:28:00.001-04:00

Vibrant fall foliage creates a spectacular scenic backdrop to Athertyn, where new homeowners are happily admiring the autumn leaves – not raking them! Residents are savoring their first taste of freedom from yard work and home maintenance in this award-winning community in the heart of the Main Line.

A private residents' clubhouse is central to Athertyn's design, with a fitness center, executive style library and conference room, game room, club room with bar and billiards, and great room providing abundant options for socialization and recreation. Outside, residents enjoy a tennis court, putting green, pool with spa, formal gardens, and community flower and vegetable gardens, as well as access to five miles of nature trails surrounded by more than 120 acres of preserved open space and 45 acres of township environmental and recreational areas.

Free yourself from the burden of home maintenance and enjoy the good life at Athertyn!

"We developed Athertyn in response to a demand for simplified, maintenance-free living on the Main Line, and our continued sales success reflects our buyers' excitement about the community," said Todd Pohlig. "Many of our new homeowners find themselves relieved of the burden of home maintenance for the first time in a very long time, and Athertyn gives them every opportunity to enjoy their newfound freedom."

Situated in the 209-acre Haverford Reserve, Athertyn features environmentally friendly design in an extraordinary park side location, where natural storm water management systems and sensitive land development practices preserve the surrounding habitat. The upscale condominium residences feature traditional Main Line architecture with steel and concrete construction, including natural brick, limestone, and stucco exteriors. Inside, comfortably proportioned floor plans and abundant natural light contribute to energy conservation, while Energy Star appliances, Low-E glass windows, and high-efficiency heating and cooling systems further boost the homes’ efficiency rating while helping to reduce utility bills.

"Our customers are will informed about preservation and environmental issues", said Don Pohlig, a principal of the Pohlig organization. "Athertyn appeals to buyers in part because it's built with green principles in mind by a builder that shares their commitment to sustainable, earth –friendly practices."

In 2009, the National Association of Homebuilders presented Pohlig with awards for Best Active Adult Community and Best Clubhouse.

Athertyn Enrichment Series - Tim Chambers

2011-09-29T15:26:00.000-04:00

Join us for a fabulous evening with a very special guest!

Meet Tim Chambers, the Writer, Producer and Director of "The Mighty Macs" -- the inspirational new film based on the improbable true story of tiny Immaculata College's 1972 national women's basketball championship.

Chambers, the Writer, Producer and Director of "The Mighty Macs"

This event will be held Thursday, October 6th, 2011 from 7:30 to 9:00 pm at the Athertyn Clubhouse, 7700 Parkview Drive, Haverford, PA. Those interested in attending this event can R.S.V.P. to Carrie Sullivan at 610-647-4700 or send an email to info@athertyn.com to reserve a seat.

People In Action - Scott Schaeffer

2011-09-28T11:35:00.000-04:00

Scott Schaeffer, superintendent for Pohlig Builders

With more than 30 years experience in construction, Scott brings an eye for detail and an appreciation for fine craftsmanship to every home project he oversees. Before joining Pohlig Builders in 2003, Scott spent 14 years creating custom granite and marble counter tops and surrounds for high-end homes, including many Pohlig projects.

When he is not on the job site, Scott enjoys playing ice hockey, road biking, and any opportunity to travel and relax on the beach.

Athertyn Champagne Reception

2011-09-12T13:29:00.003-04:00

Make the move that will change your life

With exciting new floor plans inspired by buyers and fabulous new pricing from the mid $400's, it's time to take a fresh look at Athertyn.

The Pohlig organization will hold a Champagne Reception on Saturday and Sunday, September 17 and 18, from 1 – 4 PM, to celebrate the unveiling of four new floor plans at Athertyn at Haverford Reserve.

The new layouts combine all the best features of Athertyn's original plans with fresh ideas suggested by Athertyn buyers. Beginning at 1,500 square feet, the new models retain the open, light-filled spaces so important to homeowners, combining the ease of single-level living with custom-grade finishes and personal touches usually reserved for a single home. Each model offers outstanding livability, with beautifully appointed kitchens, separate dining rooms, and generous open layouts ideal for entertaining. Most models feature private terraces that add outdoor living space and connect homeowners with Athertyn's magnificent surroundings.

When Pohlig first set out to create Athertyn at Haverford Reserve, the builders turned to their buyers for inspiration. The resulting community is the only one of its kind anywhere on the Main Line, featuring elegant condominium homes and a private residents' clubhouse surrounded by pristine open space. And as the community continues to grow and evolve, Pohlig continues to listen to feedback from Athertyn residents and prospective buyers.

"We're very excited about these new floor plans," said Todd Pohlig, a principal of the Pohlig organization. "We were finding that some of our buyers loved everything about the Athertyn community but frankly wanted just a little less house, without sacrificing any of the personalization or the custom feel. In response to that, we've opened up the possibilities by introducing smaller floor plans that begin at lower price points, giving buyers the flexibility to choose exactly the options they want. At the same time, buyers interested in the 3,000 square foot penthouse will still find everything they're looking for."

Athertyn at Haverford Reserve offers luxurious maintenance-free condominium living in the heart of Philadelphia's Main Line

Athertyn’s residential buildings feature a classic architectural style, with steel and concrete construction that provides superior sound insulation and contributes to a secure "pick up and go" lifestyle. Beautifully situated on a scenic plateau in the heart of the 209-acre Haverford Reserve, Athertyn offers convenient maintenance-free living and exceptional value right in the heart of the Main Line, just two miles from the Haverford train station.

The clubhouse serves as both a social center and an extension of each home, with a fitness center, executive style library and conference room, club room with billiards, and great room. Outside, Athertyn residents enjoy a tennis court, putting green, and pool with spa, plus flower and vegetable gardens and five miles of nature and walking trails that connect the community with 120 acres of preserved open space and 45 acres of township environmental and recreational areas.

The clubhouse at Athertyn at Haverford Reserve offers all of the amenities in elegant style

Athertyn at Haverford Reserve is located on Parkview Drive, near the intersection of College Avenue and Darby Road in Haverford, PA. Two fully decorated model homes are on display at the Athertyn Sales & Design Center, open daily from 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. or by appointment at 5109 Parkview Drive. Personalized homes from the mid $400's to $1.3+ million. For more information, call 610-525-5110 or visit www.athertyn.com.

About Pohlig and Athertyn at Haverford Reserve

After 36 years of building the finest custom homes on the Main Line, Pohlig has become synonymous with personalization. Nationally recognized for their superior craftsmanship and attention to detail, the company was named “America’s Best Custom Home Builder” and has been the recipient of numerous other industry, civic, and business honors. With Athertyn at Haverford Reserve, itself the winner of several national and regional awards for livability and design, Todd and Don Pohlig bring the elegance of Main Line architecture and culture to condominium living.

Athertyn Enrichment Series - Dean Bennett as Ben Franklin

2011-09-01T11:10:00.001-04:00

Join us for a fabulous evening with a very Special Guest!

The Athertyn team, the Pohlig Organization, and The American Historical Theater present Dean Bennett as Ben Franklin

Spend an evening learning little known facts about one of America's most popular historic characters, portrayed by Dean Bennett, one of the area's best Ben Franklin impersonators.

This event will be held Wednesday, September 14th, 2011 from 7:30 to 9:00 pm at the Athertyn Clubhouse, 7700 Parkview Drive, Haverford, PA. Those interested in attending this event can R.S.V.P. to Carrie Sullivan at 610-647-4700 or send an email to info@athertyn.com to reserve seats.

Other upcoming events:

Meet the Writer, Producer and Director of "The Mighty Macs" the inspirational new film based on the improbable true story of tiny Immaculata College's 1972 national women's basketball championship. This event will be held Thursday October, 6 2011 at the Athertyn Clubhouse.

Tim Chambers, Director of "The Mighty Macs"

Presenter: Tim Chambers
Quaker Media Group

Philadelphia magazine Designer Home 2011

2011-08-26T14:15:00.001-04:00

For the past four years, the Philadelphia Ronald McDonald House has been the charity partner for the Philadelphia magazine Design Home. The Philadelphia RMH receives 100% of the donations from the public tours held during this annual event. The 2011 Philadelphia magazine Design Home will be located in Haverford, PA. This year the project is a renovation and addition to a 1928 Main Line manor home. The open house will begin on Thursday, September 9th and will continue until Sunday, October 9th.

The 2011 Philadelphia magazine Design Home will be located in Haverford, PA. Proceeds of the tours will benefit the Philadelphia Ronald McDonald House. Parking will be available at Athertyn at Haverford Reserve

The Pohlig organization is supporting the Philadelphia Ronald McDonald House by offering the use of the parking areas in front of future Athertyn at Haverford Reserve home sites for guests of the Design Home tours.

The Designer Home will be open:
Thursday 12-8 PM and Friday through Monday 11 AM – 4 PM

Tickets are $20.
100% of all proceeds benefit the Philadelphia Ronald McDonald House.

For more information please contact 215-387-8431 or visit www.philarmh.org + phillymag.com/designhome
Children over the age of 12 are welcome.

Directions to Athertyn at Haverford Reserve can be found at http://www.athertyn.com/directions.asp

Coordinate with Cassie!

2011-08-23T12:38:00.001-04:00

Cassie Barnes is the selection coordinator at Athertyn at Haverford Reserve who helps new homeowner’s personalize and make their condominium homes truly elegant

When it comes to making your new home a very special place, you need a pro - someone who knows how to make all the pieces come together. Athertyn professional selections coordinator, Cassie Barnes, knows just how to combine textures, colors and fixtures to give you the look you want. And... She makes the process fun. Spend a few minutes with her to get a glimpse of the beautiful combinations possible. From carpet and tile to cabinets and faucets, Cassie will help you make your home a masterpiece.

The Athertyn design center features full sample displays of selections for your new home. Everything from tile and marble…

…to plumbing fixtures. New homeowner’s at Athertyn can sit with Cassie and design the home of their dreams.

Cassie works closely with Athertyn home owners to personalize their new homes to match their lifestyle

For those who want stunning style without the wait...

Athertyn at Haverford Reserve has Designer Homes that are MOVE IN READY! Perfectly coordinated by Cassie and featuring some of our most requested finishes and combinations.

Coordinate with Cassie in creating your elegant, condominium home at the lifestyle community of Athertyn at Haverford Reserve

NAHB - Home Maintenance Quiz

2011-08-19T12:21:00.000-04:00

It’s the weekend and you have a whole list of household chores to do. Oh, we know you’d rather be golfing or playing tennis or watching TV, but keeping your home in good shape is important. Your home may be the biggest investment you will ever make. Taking good care of it with regular maintenance is necessary to maintain its value and ensure it will provide a comfortable, safe shelter for you and your family for a long time.

Here is a home maintenance quiz that will test your maintenance knowledge. While this quiz does not address every home maintenance project, it does provide helpful tips and reminders for chores you may have overlooked.

1. How often do forced-air furnace filters need to be changed?
      At least every three months during the heating season.

2. What part of the faucet usually needs to be replaced when you have a water leak?
     The washer.

3. Should you run hot or cold water through your garbage disposal?
      Cold water.

4. How often should the moving parts of garage doors be oiled?
      Every three months.

5. What tools can you use to unclog your drains?
      A plunger and a plumber’s snake.

6. What tool can be used to unclog a toilet?
      Coil spring-steel auger.

7. What faucet part needs to be cleaned every three to four months?
      Aerator—the screen inside the end of the faucet.

8. What can you use for traction on icy sidewalks, steps and driveways?
      Cat litter or sand—never use salt because it damages the pavement.

9. Where should the fire in your fireplace be built?
      On the andirons or grate, never on the fireplace floor.

10. What will prevent soot and add color to the fire in your fireplace?
      Throw in a handful of salt.

11. Where should your firewood be stored?
      Outside, away from your house and not directly on the ground.

12. What helps keep unpainted concrete floors easy to keep clean?
      Concrete sealer.

13. What should you use to clean unpainted concrete floors?
      A solution of 4 to 6 tablespoons of washing soda in a gallon of hot water. Mix scouring powder to the solution for tough jobs.

14. When can you clean hardwood floors with water?
      When the floors have a polyurethane finish.

15. Do hardwood floors need to be waxed?
      Hardwood floors that do not have a polyurethane finish probably will need to be waxed periodically. Use liquid or paste “spirit” wax.

16. What is the best polish for vinyl floors?
      Water emulsion wax.

17. When is basement condensation at its maximum?
      In new homes because gallons of water went into the concrete of basement walls.

18. Why should noisy water pipes be fixed promptly?
      The condition that causes noisy pipes may be accompanied by vibration that can cause fittings to loosen and leak.

19. Why should frozen pipes be thawed slowly?
      Frozen pipes should be thawed slowly to prevent the formation of steam, which could cause the pipe to burst.

20. How often should your roof be inspected?
      A qualified roofer should inspect your roof every three years.

21. What should be regularly checked on your security system?
      The alarms and circuit breakers should be checked to make sure they are in working order and the sensors should be inspected one by one.

22. To ensure your safety, what household equipment uses batteries that must be checked regularly to make sure they are operable?
      Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

23. What do you use to fill nail holes and cracks in plaster walls and gypsum wallboard?
      Spackling.

24. What is the white powdery substance that develops on masonry walls?
      Efflorescence sometimes appears on masonry walls. It is crystallized soluble salts that can be removed by scrubbing with water and a stiff brush.

25. At what temperature should your water heater be set?
      120 degrees Fahrenheit

26. How often do skylights need to be inspected?
      Skylights should be inspected each time your roof is inspected so leaks don’t develop from cracks and interruptions around its seals, caulking and flashings.

27. What is a simple solution you can use to wash extremely dirty exterior windows?
      A solution of equal parts vinegar and water or 3 tablespoons of denatured alcohol per quart of warm water. Use a piece of crumpled newspaper to wash the glass to avoid lint left behind by papertowls.

28. What can you use to help a window slide easily?
      Rub the channel with a piece of paraffin.

29. What should you look for when you inspect your siding yearly?
      Determine if wood-sided homes need to be repainted; check to see if the caulking around the windows and doors has split and cracked, and replace the caulk; clean the mildew; trim shrubbery away so it does not touch the siding.

Brought to you by the National Association of Home Builders
Visit the NAHB on the web at www.nahb.org

Learn about "maintenance-free" living on the Main Line at www.athertyn.com

Historic Highlight: Athertyn Ground Breaking Ceremony 2008

2011-08-11T14:47:00.002-04:00

Haverford, PA - September 22, 2008 - The Pohlig organization recently welcomed homebuyers to a ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the official opening of Parkview Drive, the gateway to Haverford Reserve. Reminiscent of a traditional tree-lined park road, Parkview Drive winds through the 209-acre Haverford Reserve site, which features convenient maintenance-free living in condominiums and carriage homes surrounded by more than 120 acres of preserved parkland and 45 acres of township recreation fields.

Parkview Drive, the new park like entrance to Haverford Reserve

The September 19 ceremony coincided with the opening of the second release of homes at Pohlig’s Athertyn at Haverford Reserve, elegant lifestyle condominiums ranging from 1,800 to nearly 3,000 square feet. Throughout each home, Pohlig’s trademark craftsmanship and attention to detail bring the influence of classic Main Line architecture to this exciting, maintenance-free lifestyle community. In addition to Athertyn, Haverford Reserve will include 100 paired carriage homes built by a joint venture of The Goldenberg Group and Guidi Homes of Blue Bell, PA.

Todd and Don Pohlig of the Pohlig organization give a tour of the first Athertyn condo building being raised

"Following the sales success of our first release of condominium homes, we are happy to announce that the second release is now opening, with all nine floor plans available to buyers," said Don Pohlig of the Pohlig organization. "Construction of the first release is well underway, and we are on track for deliveries in summer 2009."

Don Pohlig explains the building foundation layout to one of the first Athertyn home buyers

At the ceremony, builders Todd and Don Pohlig joined Haverford Township officials and representatives of the Goldenberg Group to lead tours of the residential and recreational areas of Haverford Reserve, including Pohlig’s Athertyn community. Arranged in six four-story buildings, Athertyn features concrete and steel construction and environmentally friendly design, with energy-saving amenities such as Low-E glass windows, high-efficiency heating and cooling systems, and Energy Star appliances in every home. Throughout the site, natural stormwater management systems and sensitive land development practices protect the surrounding habitat from sedimentation, surface runoff, and erosion.

Todd Pohlig shares building plans and the vision that will be Athertyn at Haverford Reserve with the first Athertyn home buyers

"The parkland surrounding Athertyn at Haverford Reserve will be as much a part of this community as the homes themselves," said Todd Pohlig. "The site was designed around the existing landscape, even re-routing planned streets to accommodate existing trees and streams. Driving down Parkview Drive will feel like driving down an established park road lined with mature trees and plantings, and arriving home to a familiar neighborhood."

Construction of Building 5000 at Athertyn at Haverford Reserve was underway during the ground breaking ceremonies held for the new buyers

About Pohlig

After 30 years of building the finest custom homes on the Main Line, Pohlig has become synonymous with personalization. Nationally recognized for their superior craftsmanship and attention to detail, the company was named “America’s Best Custom Home Builder” and has been the recipient of numerous other industry, civic, and business honors. With Athertyn at Haverford Reserve, the Main Line’s premier 55+ lifestyle community, Todd and Don Pohlig bring the elegance of Main Line architecture and culture to condominium living.

Set in the 209-acre Haverford Reserve, Athertyn will feature a Residents’ Clubhouse with fitness center, pool, tennis court and miles of nature trails surrounded by more than 120 acres of preserved open space. The community is less than two miles from the Haverford train station.

People In Action - Steve Lindes

2011-08-05T13:56:00.001-04:00


Steve Lindes, Estimator/Project Manager at Pohlig Builders

Steve figures out how much your home is going to cost. Working with trade contractors and suppliers he prices out each piece of material that goes into your home to come up with the final tally.

Steve graduated in 1978 with a Bachelor of Science in Construction Engineering Technology from Spring Garden College. For a number of years, Steve worked in the commercial building industry as an estimator. He began working for the Pohlig organization in May of 1993 estimating construction costs of homes and acting as project manager.

When he’s not hammering out numbers, Steve hammers out iron in his blacksmith shop. One of Steve’s other passions is gardening. He enjoys sharing the “fruits of his labor” or in this case vegetables, with his co-workers and friends throughout the growing season. In addition to being deeply involved with the site and building engineering for Pohlig’s Athertyn at Haverford Reserve project, Steve planted the initial bounty in the Athertyn Gardens for the new residents to enjoy!

Steve Lindes, enjoys spending time in his garden when he is not estimating for the Pohlig organization

Steve Lindes of the Pohlig organization planted the initial bounty in what is now known as the Athertyn Gardens at Athertyn at Haverford Reserve

NAHB News - What are the Best Ways to Add Value to Your Home

2011-08-02T14:42:00.002-04:00

If you are looking to sell your home and downsize or simplify your life by moving to a lifestyle community, but are worried that your house may have lost some of it's value over the past few years, the NAHB has some tips for you:

What are the Best Ways to Add Value to Your Home?

Which home remodeling projects are the best ones for those looking for a solid return on their investment — and higher profits come selling day?

Americans spent over $114 billion on home remodeling in 2009, according to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). Remodeling is expected to outpace new home building in about 10 years.

But all home remodeling projects are not equal. Here are some top ways to add value to your home:

A Home Office Remodel
Home offices are becoming less of a luxury and more of a necessity, with more people telecommuting. The number of Americans that work from home is in the millions, and that number has continued to grow every year. With many companies cutting costs and becoming more aware of their carbon footprints, telecommuting has become a viable solution for many in the working world. Making sure that your home has a state-of-the-art space for potential teleworkers is a surefire way to increase your home’s value.

Remodeling unfinished attic space can be a great way to add value to your home by creating a home office or study

Renovate or Add a Family Room.
With open floor plans becoming more in demand, a family room is an excellent way to make existing homes more like new construction. Remember, it’s a good idea to keep in mind what homes in your area are like. People like to purchase homes that blend with other homes around them. Chances are you’ll find many of your neighbors are investing in family rooms as well.

Replace the Roof.
The roof is one of the first impressions people have of a home. Make sure yours passes the test by replacing an old roof. You can also change the character of your home by looking into architecturally styled roofing tiles.

Landscape Your Yard.
Along the same lines of thinking as the roof, landscaping can give a great – or not so great – first impression. Backyard landscaping can transform ordinary spaces into incredible entertaining areas by including elegant water features and lush plants. Consider your area’s climate. If you live in an area that receives temperate weather year-round, you’ll find that your new landscaped yard adds value to your home and increases your living space.

A recent Pohlig organization remodel such as this one includes the addition of landscape, hard-scape and pool house which greatly increases the value of a home

Replace Old Windows.
Thirty percent of a home’s energy is lost through its windows. Replacing old windows with energy-efficient ones signals to home buyers that you really care about the house and it reflects on the quality of the house as a whole. Plus, who doesn’t like to save money on energy bills?

Remodel Your Basement.
Look at space you already have. Do you have unused space that serves as a black hole for all things without a home? Try remodeling your basement. Remodeled basements can make excellent game rooms or guest suites, adding value to your home without adding space.

Remodeling unused areas such as this finished lower level by Pohlig Builders can add living area and value to your home

Paint, Paint, Paint.
Enough said. But remember to hire a professional if you need help and keep the colors neutral if you’re looking to sell. Nothing looks worse than a poorly done paint job in bright fuchsia.

Remodel Your Kitchen.
Small changes can result in big value. Upgrading appliances, door handles and painting tired walls can add new life to your kitchen, and add value to your home. The general rule when doing a remodel is not to overdo it…unless it’s the kitchen. Kitchens sell a home, and in this case, size does matter. But a kitchen remodel is a long-term investment; you’ll see payback 10 years down the road. And if you are a DIYer, know your limits. Sometimes doing it yourself can save money, but always bring in a professional for the big jobs.

Remodel or Add a Bathroom.
A bathroom remodel can often mean simply making the most of your current space, by upgrading fixtures, flooring and lighting. Have a little more money in the budget? Adding a bathroom is a great way to increase the value of your home. Is your only bathroom upstairs and not convenient for dinner guests? Often the area under a set of stairs is the perfect place for a powder room.

For more information on adding value to your home through remodeling, visit www.nahb.org/remodel.

View the original NAHB article here.

People In Action - Barbara Kleger

2011-08-01T14:03:00.001-04:00

Barbara Kleger is among the first in the country to be recognized as a Certified Active Adult Specialist in Housing and is President of 55+ Consulting (a division of KD Partners, LLC)

Barbara Kleger has been serving the "55+ industry" since 1978 when she was Vice President of a public company that developed age restricted communities in the Eastern United States. She later established a marketing consulting firm and now serves as President of 55+ consulting (a division of KD Partners, LLC), a national firm that specializes in strategic planning, consumer research and marketing for adult lifestyle and full service retirement communities.

Ms. Kleger has been on the board of many organizations serving the 55+ industry. In 1995 she was a delegate to the White House Conference on Aging, and in 2005 she co-chaired the Coalition for Research on Baby Boomer Housing and Retirement Options for the White House Conference. She has been a guest lecturer at the University of Pennsylvania, Wharton School MBA class on Management of Health Care for the Elderly and at New York University.

Over the past 30 years she has received distinguished service awards in recognition of her exceptional leadership and commitment to life enhancement for seniors. She and her clients have also received numerous marketing awards for effectively portraying the lifestyle, needs and desires of the mature adult. She conducts seminars, teaches marketing, leads focus groups, and has personally served over 200 clients and surveyed over one million households during her career.

In 2007, Ms. Kleger was among the first in the country to be recognized as a Certified Active Adult Specialist in Housing (CAASH) and in 2009 she received the prestigious National "Icon of the Industry" award from the from the 50+ Housing Council of the National Association of Home Builders. This coveted award recognized Ms. Kleger as an outstanding industry leader who has made a lasting impact on the 50+ housing industry.

Barbara Kleger is a graduate of Temple University. Prior to entering the 55+ industry, she was an auditor for the government.

Barbara Kleger helped launch the 55+ active lifestyle community of Athertyn at Haverford Reserve

Barbara was an integral part of the launch of Athertyn at Haverford Reserve which is the first 55+ active lifestyle community of its kind on the Main Line.

For more information on Barbara Kleger, contact 55+ Consulting, 226 W. Rittenhouse Square, Suite 3010 Philadelphia, PA 19103 Telephone: 215.893.3635 Efax: 215.689.3638 Email: bkleger1@aol.com

Pohlig Builders - Then and Now

2011-07-28T15:34:00.001-04:00

The "Don and Todd" Story

The brothers Pohlig, Todd and Don, bring to life the great American tale of "local boys make good." Both graduated from Monsignor Bonner High School, with Todd joining the Army upon graduation from Villanova University. Don, the younger, had such a hunger to work that he went to work with John Falcone’s house framing company on the day of his high school graduation (instead of going to the ceremony!) He soon started his own framing company and built challenging contemporary houses instead of the "boxes" of that day. Todd dreamed up Pohlig Builders when he was in the Army, returned home and started the company in late 1974.

Don and Todd Pohlig were teammates early on (1960)

Don Pohlig (1963) "Most likely to succeed"

Lou Fanelli and Bill Harley of Fanelli-Harley & Company Real Estate in Paoli rented Todd a desk (and acquired the telephone number: 610-647-4700 that the company uses to this day!) The rest is history! Todd had worked summers for Fanelli during his school years, liked the business and wanted to be in Lou’s position as a builder interacting with clients.

Don and Todd Pohlig in 1990

In the Spring of 1976, at the Howard Johnson’s in King of Prussia, Todd and Don agreed to join together as Pohlig Builders. They moved the office into a back bedroom of parents Harry and Mary Pohlig’s home.

Todd and Don’s father, Harry Pohlig, believed in them tremendously and his help in growing the business was immeasurable. In the 1960's one of Harry’s hobbies was tinkering with HiFi kits. Every bedroom had a speaker and the young Pohligs awoke to subtle messages filling their minds with The Power of Positive Thinking. Harry was truly ahead of his time – he is to this day a Great Thinker and continues to provide points to consider. The Pohligs attribute this positive influence as one of their biggest edges in business – don’t underestimate the power of positive thinking.

Todd and Don Pohlig (1992)

In these early years, they built contemporary houses one at a time on leftover lots Harry Pohlig found. Money was an issue as Todd’s Army savings were quickly used up. Perhaps if he had known how much money was needed for such a venture, he might not have pursued his dream. Early investors (Harry’s friends) Bill Andrews of Andrews Pinkstone Real Estate and Sue LeBoutillier Epps of Andrews Dickenson Pinkstone Real Estate put up joint-venture money on a house-by-house basis.

One of the Pohlig brothers' early contemporary homes

Things changed in 1980 when they built their first high-end custom home, a brick Georgian Colonial for the Batchelors in Charlestown Township for $240,000! They began a series of projects involving multiple lots and moved from contemporaries and townhouses to more traditional homes. A valuable lesson came swiftly as the economy changed and interest rates soared. Financing almost fell through for The Enclave at Woodsworth – all parties were present for the signing of the agreement, but the check was written on a bank that had just merged with another, and no longer existed!! The lesson – always have alternate financing!

Todd and Don were living off the proceeds from each house and as work slowed, it was time for another "turning point" life lesson! Change was needed and things were topsy turvy for a while as the Pohlig brothers once again re-invented themselves. Don and his wife Dot rented their home and moved to Florida to partner with Brian Forcine to run a concrete business as a supplement to home building. Things just did not work out there and they soon moved back to the Main Line, moving in with Todd and wife Barbara, for a time testing personal credit and extended family closeness. Never wavering on their commitment to the business, the storm was weathered with all three company employees available for the next gale.

Now as the business really grew, they learned to retain earnings as security during unpredictable dry periods. They looked at the business as a true business. They established an outside Board of Directors and joined the HBA of Chester and Delaware Counties and the National Homebuilders Association. It has always been a Pohlig belief that a company's growth is dependent on the contributions of each employee.

Don and Todd Pohlig in 1999

In 1983 they built and moved their offices to Pohlig’s current location: 274 Lancaster Avenue in Malvern, PA. Pohlig was looking for a contractor to pave a house driveway and they pulled a name right out of the Yellow Pages: Griffith & De Cola Paving Contractors – they paved driveways for Pohlig and over time built a rapport with one another. Sterling Griffith offered them the opportunity to purchase the ground on Lancaster Avenue. It was zoned residential and it was Todd's first experience in getting a Zoning Change – to Commercial. It is amazing how this chance encounter – a name out of the Yellow Pages – brought them the property which has been the company's home ever since.

The land acquired in 1983 at 274 Lancaster Avenue in Malvern, PA is still home to Pohlig Builders today

In 1997, another defining moment came for Pohlig Builders as they won the American's Best Custom Builder award presented by the National Association of Home Builders. They continued their success winning numerous awards along the way for several of their custom homes over the years. Their name has become synonymous with quality on the Main Line of Philadelphia.

Pohlig Builders was presented the 1997 America's Best Custom Builder Award

The Pohlig brothers continue to evolve and expand their portfolio and in 2008 launched their new type of project that they had not previously attempted. Todd Pohlig did his research and gathered information, determining that the baby boomers on the Main Line wanted a simpler, care-free lifestyle. After years of planning and partnering with The Goldenberg Group in acquiring the land that the previous Haverford State Hospital was situated on, the Pohlig brothers broke ground on the Athertyn project, a 55+ lifestyle condominium community located in Haverford Reserve that would provide baby boomers all of the amenities in a maintenance-free environment.

Don, Harry, and Todd Pohlig at the ribbon cutting ceremony of Athertyn at Haverford Reserve 2009

The Pohligs managed to blend condominium living with the luxurious award winning style of their custom homes.

The first condominium building of Athertyn at Haverford Reserve

Today Pohlig is over 25 employees strong. The Pohlig story has been an authentic "American Dream" these thirty-seven years.

"Thanks to all who have worked with us along our journey." – The Pohlig team June 2011

Athertyn Broker's Open

2011-07-25T13:20:00.002-04:00

Join us for the Broker’s Open at Athertyn at Haverford Reserve call 610-252-5110 or visit www.athertyn.com

On Tuesday, August 9th, 2011 the doors of the Athertyn Sales and Design Center will be open to realtors who wish to participate in the Athertyn Broker’s Open.

The tour will begin in the Athertyn Sales and Design Center where visitors have the opportunity to look at all the floor plans and the extensive array of options available to personalize the homes at Athertyn. Then, tour the designer homes offered in the closeout sale of Building 5000. These designer homes are being sold at a base price with all of the spectacular upgrades included!!

The 55+ lifestyle community of Athertyn at Haverford Reserve features all of the amenities that a homeowner could want!

Guests will then tour the Athertyn residents' clubhouse and all of its amenities including great room, executive style meeting room, bar, game room, recreation area, state-of-the-art high definition golf simulator, putting green, tennis court and pool.

Afterwards all will be treated to a poolside luncheon provided by Mediterranean Catering. The open will begin at noon on Tuesday, August 9th 2011 in the Athertyn Sales and Design Center and go on until 3pm.

For more information call 610-525-5110 or visit us on-line at http://www.athertyn.com

The main entrance of Athertyn at Haverford Reserve leads to the clubhouse and Building 5000 where the Sales and Design Center is located.

Athertyn Gardens Give Homeowners the Opportunity to Pursue Outdoor Hobbies in a Condominium Setting

2011-07-21T14:53:00.000-04:00

When the 55+ lifestyle community of Athertyn was being constructed on the grounds of the Haverford Reserve, a portion of the surrounding open space was preserved to allow residents to pursue their hobby of gardening. The developers of the property, the Pohlig organization, recognized that many homeowners do not wish to give up some of their outdoor hobbies when moving from a single family home to a lifestyle community, so they created the Athertyn Gardens.

The Athertyn Gardens of Athertyn at Haverford Reserve is divided into plots which can be claimed by the homeowners

Approximately 3900 square feet of land was fenced in and divided into plots to be claimed by the residents of Athertyn who desire to grow vegetables and/or flowers of their choosing. This area provides homeowners with the space they need for pursuing their passion of gardening.

Some residents of Athertyn at Haverford Reserve choose to grow flowers in Athertyn Gardens

Athertyn at Haverford Reserve was designed for people with active lifestyles who do not want to give up their daily pursuits such as hiking, biking, tennis, swimming, gardening, and indoor exercising as well. All of these activities and more can be enjoyed at Athertyn and the surrounding Haverford Reserve Park with over 5 miles of trails and 120 acres of open space.

Some residents of Athertyn at Haverford Reserve choose to grow vegetables in Athertyn Gardens

The Athertyn clubhouse provides the amenities mentioned above including a putting green, an executive style meeting room, a great room, bar, billiard area, a game room for enjoying a game of bridge with friends, and a multi-use room that has a state of the art high definition golf simulator and the room also is used for yoga classes.

For more information on Athertyn at Haverford Reserve, visit www.athertyn.com

Freedom Playground 3rd Annual Touch-a-Truck Event

2011-07-20T14:51:00.003-04:00

Freedom Playground at Haverford Reserve will be hosting their 3rd annual Touch-a-Truck event

On Saturday July 30th, 2011 10:00am - 2:00pm the Freedom Playground at Haverford Reserve will be hosting their 3rd annual Touch-a-Truck program. This event allows children of all ages to get an up close and personal experience with fire trucks, construction vehicles, trash trucks, tow trucks, police cars, ambulances, a school bus, and motorcycles!

There will also be a bounce house for the kid’s enjoyment as well as a “non-touch” display of antique automobiles. Food, snacks, and drink will be available for purchase as well.

The Freedom Playground at Haverford Reserve is a fun place for children and adults of all abilities

The Freedom Playground is hoping folks will please come out and help support the fundraising efforts of the playground which is still not quite complete! The admission cost is $20 per car/family or $5 per person. They will also be selling fund raiser items such as T-shirts, brick pavers, fence posts, and hand tiles to commemorate contributions to the Freedom Playground.

You can "register" for the event on the 3rd Annual Touch-a-Truck Facebook event page or learn more about the playground at this link Freedom Playground or just drop on in on Saturday the 30th from 10am to 2pm! Additional designated parking will be available nearby at Athertyn at Haverford Reserve.

Note: This event had been scheduled for July 23, but was rescheduled due to the excessive heat forecast.

Condos are Coming Into Their Own - Shifting Lifestyles Lead to Care-Free Living

2011-07-19T12:38:00.003-04:00

News from the NAHB:

No longer considered just a second-choice option for home buyers who can’t afford a house, condominiums are giving the single-family home a run for its money as the primary preference for many new home buyers.

Shifting Lifestyles

Changing lifestyles of Americans are often cited as the reason there are many more home buyers than ever before choosing condominium units over houses. The U.S. Census Bureau saw a decline in the proportion of married-couple households with their own children from 40 percent of all households in 1970 to 23 percent in 2003.

Demographics that are on the increase include single professionals, divorcees, partners without children and active retirees. Buyers who no longer need to factor in a yard or school district when they choose a home are not restricting themselves to traditional housing options.

Condo Myths Debunked

Also helping to increase growth in the condominium market is the collapse of the myth that they are inferior in construction, with thin walls and low-grade carpet. Today’s new condos often have gourmet kitchens with top-notch appliances and come standard with high-end materials such as cherry wood floors and cabinets and granite or marble counters and vanity tops.

Another advance in condo development is the increased focus on sound-proofing units so a condo owner may be living in a building with hundreds of other people, but feel that they are in their own private, quiet oasis. Builders are combating noise issues by increasing the amount of drywall or using concrete or brick between units.

Architects are helping reduce noise impact by designing buildings so that bedrooms in one unit do not share a wall with a higher-noise room such as a kitchen or laundry in the adjoining unit.

Windows are also most often the way that noise travels in and out of rooms. To ease this frustration, builders may install double-paned windows with a high Sound Transmission Class (STC) rating which usually falls between 28 and 35 (single-paned windows have a STC rating of 20).

Hassle-Free, Convenient Living

Homeowners who enjoy the outdoors but don’t have the time or interest in maintaining a big yard find the perfect balance with green spaces on roofs and terraces of condominium buildings. Condo developments may also provide lifestyle-friendly features such as swimming pools and fitness centers and quick access to restaurants, stores and cultural events without the need for a car.

Condo living is no longer just for big cities like New York and Los Angeles, either. The condo trend is growing all over the country, including secondary markets like St. Louis and Minneapolis.

When you are making the decision to buy a new home, don’t count out a condominium. Your options will open up and you may find yourself enjoying this different way of life!

For more information on condominium developments in your area, contact your local home builders association at www.nahb.org/findanhba.

The 55+ lifestyle community of Athertyn at Haverford Reserve offers luxurious living with the feel of a private single-family residence and offers amenities such as a pool, tennis court, gardening, and fitness center. The surrounding park land offers hiking trails, a fenced-in dog park, and the Freedom Playground.

Historic Highlight: Habitat for Humanity 2001

2011-07-18T11:55:00.000-04:00

A "Blitz Build" held in November of 2001 brought together more than 165 volunteers who collectively provided labor, material, and cash contributions to construct twin homes for Habitat for Humanity. Pohlig Builders helped organize this project as well as contributing their expertise, time and labor. Todd Pohlig was co-chairman of the Habitat for Humanity Subcommittee.

Todd Pohlig of Pohlig Builders served as co-chairman of the Habitat for Humanity subcommittee and participated in the event as well

To further benefit the cause, the Home Builders Association of Chester and Delaware Counties (HBA) presented a $7,500 check to the organization. The event was the largest community service project in the 23-year history of the HBA.

The "Blitz Build" team raises a wall on a new home during the 2001 Habitat for Humanity event hosted by the Home Builders Association of Chester and Delaware Counties

For more information on home building topics or membership opportunities, call the HBA at (610) 692 – 7733 or visit www.builderpa.com or www.homebuilder.com

Taking Fitness to Another Level - Brain Fitness

2011-07-12T14:33:00.001-04:00

Whoever said games were just for children were clearly mistaken, because Penny Wilson, owner of Nognz brain-fitness store, is here to tell you otherwise with her line of games and software designed specifically for the adults of today. Penny says, “I think it’s really important to make people aware that what science used to tell us is as you age, your brain slowly degenerates, but in the last 10 years, they’ve proven no- you can rebuild your brain just like you can rebuild other muscles in your body.”

Penny Wilson , owner of Nognz brain fitness store. Photo by The Vancouver Sun

Undoubtedly, this concept of “brain fitness” is a new terminology to our world, but it’s one of great significance, especially to those baby boomers seeking to continue their active and dynamic lifestyle in the future. By pushing your brain to its uppermost limits through different exercises and games, you can help your mental health reach its fullest potential and create a “stronger neural network” less susceptible to disease and damage.

Nognz brain fitness flagship store in West Vancouver, British Columbia

Just as people commit to physical fitness routine at the gym, people such as Penny Wilson are asking you to take into consideration your mental fitness routine. It’s not just about playing games; it’s about making a lifestyle change- a commitment to make time for your brain. As Wilson describes, “don’t just limit yourself to games and puzzles. Creating a healthy brain also requires good physical fitness and nutrition, stress management and socialization”, she said. “Stress actually kills your brain cells.”

The good news for you empty nesters out there? Organizations like Pohlig have established lifestyle communities, such as their Athertyn at Haverford Reserve, designed to provide you with exactly that type of environment Penny Wilson was describing. Through Athertyn’s simplified, maintenance-free lifestyle, homeowners can enjoy maintaining their dynamic way of life in a stress-free environment, while pursuing those activities that they enjoy and that feed their body the fuel that it needs. Athertyn residents participate as active members of their community by partaking in various brain and physical fitness hobbies, such as their bridge-playing groups, weekly yoga classes at their clubhouse, and even their book clubs. Athertyn provides baby boomers with the perfect opportunity to create that healthy lifestyle and routine for improving the quality and condition of their well-being.

Athertyn at Haverford Reserve features a community game room (shown here on the right) so the residents may enjoy doing puzzles or a good game of bridge or backgammon.

Learn more about Nognz by visiting their web site at http://www.nognz.com/

People In Action - Todd Pohlig

2011-07-08T13:56:00.000-04:00

Todd Pohlig is one of the Principals at Pohlig Builders

Todd Pohlig is a Civil Engineer with over 30 years experience as a local builder of Custom Homes & Communities. Combining significant local and state involvement in the environmental aspects of site development and his interest in pre-1940 Main Line architecture has led to an overwhelming acceptance of his ideas from both the existing community and the new home marketplace. He received his B.S. in Civil Engineering at Villanova University in 1972 and is one of the Principals at Pohlig Builders of Malvern, PA.

Todd is the past president of both the Main Line Builders Association and the Home Builders Association of Chester and Delaware Counties. He is currently an active member of both associations and the Pennsylvania Builder Association. He is a speaker on the Home Building industry at the national, regional and local levels.

Todd has been active over the years in participating in Habitat for Humanity. He picks up a hammer helping build homes for those in need in Chester and Delaware Counties whenever Habitat for Humanity rolls into action.

Todd Pohlig enjoys lending a had to others participating in Habitat for Humanity whenever they roll into action and put up a home for those in need

In his spare time, Todd plays the drums in the band "Blue Sky", a five-piece group (rhythm and lead guitars, bass, keyboard, and drums) which plays classic and popular rock. Check them out at the Berwyn Tavern and 'down the shore'. Visit them at their Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/BlueSkyBandrocks

Todd Pohlig plays drums in the classic rock band Blue Sky

Love and Longevity

2011-07-05T13:43:00.000-04:00

When motivational business speaker, Harvey MacKay once said “find something you love to do and you’ll never have work a day in your life, “ he wasn’t just talking about your occupation. He was also talking about your way of life.

Doing the things you love to do is essential to long life

Admit it – we all get tied down by the typical responsibilities and tasks we face each day, in the office and at home. But who’s to say we shouldn’t take more time out of our daily routine to indulge in those pleasures and hobbies that we truly love. Well organizations, such as the National Institute on Aging, are conducting research to prove just that – that we should enjoy those pleasures more often. The benefits of this commitment don’t just promise happiness and joy, surprisingly enough they also ensure you a much longer life as well.

According to the study, “people who are involved in hobbies and other social and leisure pursuits may be at lower risk for (and less likely to develop) some health problems, including dementia. They might even live longer. In one study, older adults who reported participating in social activities or meaningful, productive activities lived longer than people who did not.”

The hiking and biking trails at Athertyn at Haverford Reserve provides for an active lifestyle

It’s not just about living an active lifestyle; it’s about having a purpose – a reason to wake up every morning driven and assured. So listen up you 77 million baby boomers out there, because this one goes out to you. It’s time for you to make that effort to create a lifestyle tailored around the activities that you enjoy and love. Get rid of all the petty stressors in your life, and truly just make time for you.

No doubt about it, Don and Todd Pohlig definitely hear me loud and clear on this one. With the recent establishment of their lifestyle community, Athertyn at Haverford Reserve, Pohlig has provided empty nesters with the right environment for indulging in life’s everyday pleasures, such as gardening, card games, dinner clubs, and so much more. Athertyn holds true that promise of happiness, joy, and longevity.

Athertyn at Haverford Reserve will simplify your life and allow you to continue to do the things you love

As Todd Pohlig describes it “Our buyers are an extremely active group. Athertyn gives them the chance to spend more time on the activities that interest them and to stop worrying about home maintenance and chores.” Through Athertyn’s Resident’s Clubhouse with fitness center, pool, tennis court, and miles of nature trails surrounded by more than 120 acres of preserved open space, Pohlig has definitely guaranteed baby boomers that genuine opportunity of the pursuit of happiness.

NAHB News - The Not-So-Obvious Benefits of Buying New

2011-06-29T12:17:00.000-04:00

Prospective home buyers have the choice of two types of houses on the market: resale or new.

Home buyers planning to buy a brand-new house or condominium often cite energy-efficiency, open layout,a warranty, and being able to select appliances, flooring, paint colors and other design elements as factors driving their choice.

But builders say that buyers can be drawn to a new house for reasons that aren’t so obvious. Below are a few more benefits of a brand-new home that you may not see in the sales brochure.

Building a Community Together

A brand-new community is one of the built-in benefits of many new homes. When families move in to a subdivision at the same time, often lasting bonds of friendship and neighborliness are formed right away. Nobody is the “new kid on the block,” and many home builders host community block parties in new developments to help owners meet and connect. Popular amenities like pools, walking trails and courts for tennis and basketball offer additional opportunities for interaction among neighbors of all ages. Often new communities are comprised of home owners in the same stage of life, such as young families or active retirees, so neighbors can get to know each other through carpools, PTA meetings, tennis matches or golf games.

Entertaining

Throwing a party in an older home can be a challenge because smaller, distinct rooms make it difficult to entertain guests in one large space. Builders are responding to today’s home buyer preferences with layouts featuring more open spaces and rooms that flow into each other more easily, like the popular great room. While you are in the kitchen preparing dinner, you can still interact with guests enjoying conversation in the family room without feeling closed off. The feeling of spaciousness in today’s new-home layouts often is enhanced by the higher ceilings and additional windows that bringing in more light than you would find in an older home.

A Clean Slate

For some buyers, parking the car in a sparkling-clean garage or being the first to cook a dinner in a brand new kitchen is part of the appeal of new construction. In addition, you won’t have to spend time stripping dated wallpaper or repainting to suit your own sense of style. You can create your own home décor from the get-go!

The advantages of being the first owner of a home extend to the outdoors. Instead of inheriting inconveniently or precariously placed trees, or having to tear up overgrown shrubs, you can design and plant the lawn and garden you want.

Outlets, Outlets Everywhere!

Homes built in the 1960’s and earlier were wired much differently than houses today. Builders had no way of anticipating the invention of high-definition televisions, DVRs and computers that we enjoy today — and the very different electrical requirements they would introduce. New homes can accommodate advanced technologies like structured wiring, security systems and sophisticated lighting plans, and can be tailored to meet the individual home owner’s needs.

Anyone who has ever lived in an older home can also attest to the fact that there are never enough outlets, inside or out! New-home builders plan for the increased number and type of electronics and appliances used by today’s families, so you can safely operate a wine cooler, Christmas lights or your computer.

To find new homes for sale in your area, contact your local home builders association at www.nahb.org/findanhba

People In Action - Susan Hargadon

2011-06-27T11:53:00.003-04:00

Susan Hargadon is the Controller at Pohlig Builders

Susan Hargadon is the Controller at Pohlig Builders. She manages all of the company’s accounting and financial matters, including overseeing all the details behind your home settlement. Prior to joining Pohlig Builders in January 2000, she was Vice President of Finance at Corporate Interiors of Delaware.

Susan is an avid reader who also loves Westie’s, vacationing with husband Ed and playing pinochle on Friday nights (not necessarily in that order!) Daughter, Cristin, and son-in-law Brian graduated from West Point and have served our country. Daughter Alison graduated from the University of the Sciences with a Pharmaceutical Doctorate.

Many thanks to Susan for her outstanding work at Pohlig Builders.

NAHB News - Top Reasons To Buy A Home

2011-06-24T13:39:00.000-04:00

1. LOW INTEREST RATES.
    Rates remain low; lock in a payment that fits your budget.

2. AVAILABLE LOANS.
    Borrowers with good credit can get loans with attractive rates.

3. COMPETITIVE PRICES.
    You can afford more home than you could a few years ago.

4. GREAT SELECTION.
    With lots of homes on the market, get the features you want!

5. BUILD FINANCIAL SECURITY.
    Even in down markets, over the long term home prices still appreciate more than the stock market.

6. CREATE FAMILY MEMORIES.
    You’ll remember the holidays and family milestones forever.

7. ENERGY EFFICIENCY.
    Environmentally-friendly features in new homes can help you save money.

8. MODERN FEATURES.
    Open floor plans, home offices, outdoor living spaces—new and renovated homes fit your family’s lifestyle needs.

For more information visit www.nahb.org

NAHB News - Selling Tips for Home Buyers

2011-06-23T11:13:00.000-04:00

There are incredible opportunities to buy a home in today’s market. Interest rates are near historic lows, prices are more competitive than they’ve been in years, and there is a large selection of homes available for sale to choose from. Whether you would like more space to accommodate a growing family or less to better suit an empty-nester lifestyle, the current buyer’s market makes it an ideal time to make a change.

But what if you have to sell your current home before you buy a new one? While the buyer’s market means when you buy your new house you will be able to get more for your money than a few years ago, it also means you will have to make sure your existing home is presented in its most attractive light in order to attract bids from potential buyers.

Here are some tips to help you improve your chances of attracting a buyer:

Start with a realistic price. Thoroughly research what homes comparable to yours have sold for in the past year, as well as what the asking price is for the homes that are currently for sale. If you are working with a Realtor, they can do this for you. A price that’s too high may keep your home on the market so long that buyers will assume there are problems.

Curb appeal is critical. Some prospective buyers never get out of the car before deciding that a run-down house is not for them. Keep your lawn neatly mowed and seed bare spots, mulch all the garden beds and plant colorful annuals, and paint or touch up fences, trim and the house itself, if it needs it. Fix anything sub-par that’s visible from the street.

Clean, clean, clean. From the minute buyers arrive at your front door, make sure that everything they see is super clean. Put out a new welcome mat. Thoroughly clean carpets, floors, baseboards, curtains, windows, and especially all the surfaces and appliances in your bathrooms and kitchens. Repaint the walls if they are scuffed or stained.

Don’t forget odor. The home should both look and smell clean and welcoming. Open windows in good weather to encourage fresh air to circulate. Use scented cleaners or air fresheners. Some sellers even pop a batch of cookies into the oven or simmer spiced cider on the stove if they know a potential buyer is coming.

Make sure everything works. Fix everything from the merely cosmetic such as burned-out light bulbs, to things that could raise red flags with buyers such as broken sink disposals and leaky faucets. If you don’t fix it, their home inspector will find it.

Clutter kills sales. Make sure beds are made, toys are put away, bookshelves are neatly organized, and counters are cleared of personal items. If your house is too full—and that includes attics and basements—prospective buyers will have trouble visualizing their furnishings and possessions fitting in the space. Consider temporarily moving some furniture or boxes to the homes of friends or family, rent a storage facility, or even have a yard sale.

Prospective buyers can see that buying a house that’s already attractive and in good working order will make their lives easier—and could help you get into the home of your dreams that much sooner.

For more information about selling homes in your area visit your local Home Builders Association website. In southeastern Pennsylvania, visit http://www.builderpa.com/consumer-info/resource-center.html

NAHB News - Opportunity Knocks for Home Buyers - Part 2: Benefits for Buyers

2011-06-20T11:58:00.000-04:00

Tax Benefits:For Home Owners Only

Unique tax benefits that apply only to housing help lower the cost of homeownership. Both mortgage interest and property taxes are deductible. Moreover, for married couples, profits of up to $500,000 on the sale of a principal residence ($250,000 for single taxpayers) are excluded from tax on capital gains.

The Advantage of Leveraging

Leveraging is another advantage of homeownership. A buyer can purchase a home and receive the full benefit of homeownership with a cash downpayment that is only a fraction of the total purchase price. This is called leveraging, and it makes the rate of return on a home purchase greater than on other purchases with the same value, such as stocks, where the buyer must put up the entire price.

Building Personal Resources

For most Americans, homeownership is a primary source of net worth and an important step in accumulating personal financial assets over the long term. Although property values have declined in many markets, Americans currently have a total of more than $6 trillion in equity in their homes, and for most families, home equity represents the largest share of net worth.

There Really is No Place Like Home

Although there are many positive financial aspects to homeownership, a home cannot be valued in monetary terms alone. Not only can homeownership be a steppingstone to greater financial well-being, it provides a permanent place to call home and great personal satisfaction. Academic research also shows that homeownership provides a wide range of social benefits and strengthens the nation’s people and its communities. Homeownership is truly a cornerstone of the American way of life.

Learn more at www.nahb.org

or

Download the pdf version of this file

People In Action - Kevin Schrader

2011-06-16T10:22:00.009-04:00

Kevin Schrader is Quality Assurance Manager at Athertyn at Haverford Reserve

Kevin Schrader began working for Pohlig Builders in August of 2003. He joined the Quality Assurance team taking care of custom homeowners’ needs. As the first Athertyn condominiums were completed, in the Spring of 2010, Kevin became the full time Quality Assurance Manager at Athertyn, making sure that the homeowner residences and common areas are in ship-shape order.

In his spare time, Kevin enjoys farming with his Granddaughter, vacationing with his family at Cape Hatteras, and boating. In addition, Kevin enjoys cliff diving, bungee jumping and skydiving… in his mind that is!

Kevin enjoys cliff diving, bungee jumping and sky diving when he gets the chance… not!

NAHB News - Opportunity Knocks for Home Buyers

2011-06-15T11:35:00.004-04:00

Homeownership is an important part of the American way of life, and there may never be a better time to buy than today.

Outstanding Opportunities

Now that the tax credits for first-time and repeat home buyers have expired,* many people are wondering if this is a good time to buy a home.

The answer is easy: Yes.

It’s a very good time to purchase a home. The recession is in retreat, and even though housing is on the mend, it’s still a buyer’s market. Moreover, Congress has made it clear that the home buyer tax credits are gone for good and will not be renewed. Even without the tax credits, there are many opportunities in today’s market including affordable prices, low mortgage rates and great new homes. But market conditions can change, and these opportunities may not be around for long, so home buyers shouldn’t wait.

Great Selection

An excellent selection of homes on the market makes today a very good time to buy. A plentiful inventory provides a great choice of homes, and many builders have brand new homes that are "move-in ready." Additionally, many owners of existing homes who postponed trading up or downsizing due to market conditions are now ready to sell. And as employment improves, the number of relocations will increase, bringing more homes into the market.

Attractive Pricing

If there’s a silver lining to the recession and the housing downturn, it’s that homes in many markets are more affordable. Prices in some areas have moderated significantly, especially in major markets where they increased the most during the housing boom that occurred in most of the country.

* Qualified buyers who had a binding contract in force by April 30, 2010, have until June 30, 2010, to complete their purchase.

Qualified members of the military, foreign service and intelligence communities who were on official extended duty outside of the United States for at least 90 days between January 1, 2009, and April 30, 2010, may qualify for a one-year extension of the tax credits. Go to FederalHousingTaxCredit.com for more information.

Low Interest Rates

Like inventory and pricing, mortgage interest rates are still at very favorable levels, but rates are sensitive to market forces and can change quickly. There’s no indication that rates will suddenly surge upward, but even a slight rate increase can push monthly payments to the point that a buyer might miss out on their first choice for a new home.

Prospective home buyers also should be aware that lenders are looking more closely at borrowers today than in recent years. To ensure that the process goes smoothly, buyers should consider pre-qualifying for a mortgage and having financing in place before shopping for a new home. Buyers also may find that some home builders have arranged favorable financing for their customers or offer financial incentives.

Greener and Better

With energy costs near the top of consumer concerns, it’s good to know that new homes can be more energy efficient than ever. Innovative materials and construction techniques mean that today’s new homes are built to be much more energy efficient than homes constructed a generation ago. Not only can they be more affordable to operate, new homes also are significantly more esource-efficient and environmentally friendly.

Designed With Buyers in Mind

Designed to accommodate today’s busy lifestyles, new homes feature open floorplans, flexible spaces, improved safety eatures, low-maintenance materials and other amenities that make them more appealing than ever before. And in many areas, prospective home buyers who wish to live in age-qualified communities for those 55 and older will find a large selection of homes tailored to the evolving lifestyles of the baby boom generation.

Learn more at www.nahb.org

The Pohlig Organization Hosts a Greek Glenti for Past and Present Homebuyers

2011-06-14T12:10:00.002-04:00

On June 1st, the Pohlig Organization hosted a Greek Glenti, thanking its past and present home buyers for 36 years of friendships. The gala was held at the Athertyn Clubhouse at Haverford Reserve.

The evening was filled with food, drink, music and dancing as some of the crowd showed their best moves on the floor. As the guests dined on exceptional Greek cuisine by Mediterranean Catering, live music was provided by Seizmos at the poolside casual event.

Greek food abounded at the Glenti thrown at the Athertyn Clubhouse

The cuisine available at the Greek Glenti thrown at the Athertyn clubhouse was not only delicious, but wonderful to look at!

An evening of fun filled dancing was led by one of the Athertyn residents who demonstrated the finer aspects of Greek dance such as the syrtos as the other party guests joined in.

Pohlig principal Todd Pohlig gets into the dancing act Greek style at the Glenti hosted by the Pohlig Organization at the Athertyn Clubhouse

The Pohlig Organization’s own Todd Pohlig even got into dancing with the crowd at the Greek Glenti. The dancing carried throughout the Athertyn Clubhouse for a wonderful evening of fun and excitement!

The dancing at the Greek Glenti hosted by the Pohlig Organization throughout the Athertyn Clubhouse for an evening of fun!

How to Rightsize

2011-06-13T16:00:00.001-04:00

For many empty nesters the question isn't whether or not they want to "rightsize," it’s about whether or not they know how to begin this seemingly-daunting process. Who's better to offer their expert advice than Ciji Ware, who has provided baby boomers with a simple seven-step program for rightsizing your life?

Athertyn at Haverford Reserve will liberate you from many real life burdens

•   Step 1: Decide on Your Space
The decision to "age in place" or relocate when you rightsize is deeply-rooted in the personal desires and needs of the baby boomer. Your new rightsized environment needs to be able to fulfill both your emotional desires as well as your functional needs in the long-run. While most adults stay in place due to the comfort of their location in terms of its agreeable climate, convenient facilities, and nearby friends and family, the truth of matter is many lifestyle communities offer homeowners a new living space without the sacrifice of location. Pohlig at Haverford Reserve offers lifestyle housing right in the Main Line so that baby boomers can enjoy new rightsized living without disrupting their existing careers, friendships, or other local connections.

•    Step 2: Identify Your Favorite Things
This step involves asking Ciji’s worthwhile questions, "What of all the things you own do you love the best?" and "What aspects of a particular possession are vital, in your view?" It's important to recognize that we carry emotional ties with all of our personal possessions, because they bring about some form of happiness and satisfaction to our lives. Yet, in order to rightsize, you need to prioritize your belongings to determine which of your property is most valuable and why. You may endure a continual desire to keep hold of things, because you feel as though your possessions define your self-worth. However, in order to properly rightsize and embrace this new stage in age, you must take note of those belongings which still hold meaning and significance and those belongings which, as Ciji Ware describes it, "don’t work for us anymore, don't make sense to keep anymore, and take up too much room."

•    Step 3: Edit Your Possessions Room by Room
Though one of the most intimidating and overwhelming phases in the process, this step holds one of the most liberating outcomes for those empty nesters looking for true, simplified living. You’ve already identified the things you love, so this next step is meant to jump-start your progression in de-cluttering your property. It's all about developing a system for organizing your belongings to once and for all get rid of all that clutter. To better help baby boomers to identify those items deemed "clutter," Ware references author Karen Kingston who defines clutter as,

Things you do not use or love
Things that are untidy or disorganized
Too many things in too small a space
Anything that is unfinished

•    Step 4: Fine-Tune
Here, the focus is on collections- the assortment of objects you have enjoyed gathering at one point or another in your lifetime. This is the time in your life when you realize that collections, while significant at some period in your past often represent an unnecessary accumulation of objects and things that no longer hold value to you at this stage in age. As Ciji Ware puts it, an evaluation of these collections, will allow you to "decide if you absolutely must find a place for the entire collection or for just a representative sample of what you have amassed." It’s really about sorting through your "treasures" to keep hold of those genuine "gems."

•    Step 5: Pare Down
Nothing is more overwhelming to the average baby boomer than sifting through those masses of clothing and paper you have lying around, but the truth of the matter is- they're major sources of unnecessary clutter and chaos in your life. How to address this one? Ciji Ware turns to fashion expert Linda Daniels for her advice on how to perform "wardrobe rehab" to your closet. Daniels' 3-step program to send, mend, or blend your apparel items, offers an organizational system for establishing that "right," "perfectly blended" wardrobe that functions for you at this time in your life. As for those piles of papers, they represent an entirely new battle to conquer. In this case, Ciji Ware offers up her own, personal 7-step system for sorting through that mess of documents, as well as her own little bit of advice- "Many of the top reasons we’re drowning in paper revolves around guilt, and in most cases, guilt is a wasted emotion."

•    Step 6: Call in the Professionals
There may have been a lot of battles won in the past five steps, or maybe you’re still struggling to sort out that mess of a wardrobe. In that case, Ciji Ware says it’s perfectly reasonable to seek out the professional help you may need. While rightsizing proves to be a very self-liberating process, the truth is- sometimes you just need that extra, little bit of help that’s worth paying for. Hiring experts might be the perfect guidance you need for making rightsizing-progress, and Ciji says "one of the best ways to determining what kind of outside help you need is first to ask yourself what problem or problems you are trying to solve."

•    Step 7: Stay Sane During Your Rightsizing Move
Moving is never easy on anyone but Ware couldn’t be more right when she said "…regardless of circumstance, if you do your part and create and execute a reasonable plan to the best of our ability, you have a much better chance of having things go well." In this case, procrastination is man’s worst enemy, you need to confront this obstacle and come to realization that nothing’s going to get done until you go ahead and do it yourself. Creating a system for moving and organizing all of your material possessions, is the best way for ensuring that your move goes as smoothly as possible.

Rightsizing at Athertyn will allow you to pursue your passions

Ciji Ware's book, Rightsizing Your Life®: Simplifying Your Surroundings While Keeping What Matters Most can be found at Amazon.com

You can learn more about Ciji Ware at www.rightsizingyourlife.com

Historic Highlight: Former Eagle Vince Papale Heads Weeklong Series of Grand Opening Events at Athertyn at Haverford Reserve

2011-06-08T11:43:00.002-04:00

Former Eagles' pro football player Vince Papale greeted guests on a welcoming weekend at Athertyn at Haverford Reserve. Vince was the subject of the movie "Invincible" detailing how Papale, coming from a college that had no football team, while teaching and coaching at Interboro High School, tried out for a position on the World Football League's Philadelphia Bells and won. His stellar performance on that team earned him a position on the Philadelphia Eagles becoming the oldest rookie in the history of the NFL.

Papale participated in the weekend Meet the Builders event and shared the excitement of the Main Line's most exciting new lifestyle community, Athertyn at Haverford Reserve, during the weekend of September 26 & 27 2009. He joined guests in watching the Eagles play the Chiefs on the Athertyn Clubhouse big screen television.

Joining Papale in welcoming guests for the weekend was golf pro Jeff Lockman. He provided pointers while leading guests in trying out the Athertyn Clubhouse putting green and the indoor high definition golf simulator.

Golf Pro Jeff Lockman

Don Pohlig of The Pohlig Organization tries out the indoor golf simulator at the resident's clubhouse at Athertyn at Haverford Reserve

Guests also enjoyed refreshments and tours of the decorated models, as well as the stunning clubhouse with pool, and tennis court. Athertyn at Haverford Reserve is set in a beautiful park side setting in the heart of the Main Line.

People In Action - Cassie Barnes

2011-06-06T11:45:00.005-04:00

Cassie Barnes is the selection manager at Athertyn at Haverford Reserve

Cassie began working in the building industry shortly after completing her Marketing degree from Penn State University six years ago. She has also completed an Interior Design Certification from Temple University and is in the process of obtaining her Real Estate license. Cassie joined the Pohlig Team in February of 2008 and was brought on specifically for the Athertyn project.

When she is not working on Selections, she can be found behind the bar, serving up beer and wine at Athertyn's monthly "Meet Your Neighbor" gatherings. In her free time, she loves to join her husband in the kitchen, cooking meals for family and friends. She also enjoys taking her 3 year old Puggle, "Lady", on neighborhood walks and trips to the dog park.

Community Recreation and Environmental Center at Haverford

2011-06-03T15:53:00.000-04:00

There is a great deal of excitement around the development of the new Community Recreation & Environmental Center at Haverford Reserve which is now under construction.

The proposed Community Recreation & Environmental Center at Haverford Reserve scheduled to open Spring of 2012

The new center will feature two full gymnasiums which will host basketball, volleyball and indoor soccer as well as craft shows and flea markets. The center will contain a full sized indoor track as well as multi-use rooms to host civic, scout, and sports meetings in addition to a fitness and wellness center, senior lounge, nature and environmental labs.

The 7.8 million dollar structure is being built on the community park area of Haverford Reserve. The reserve contains 120 acres of preserved open space and is home to several new athletic fields, an enclosed dog park, the Freedom Playground for children and adults of all abilities, five miles of walking and nature trails, as well as carriage homes and the new 55+ lifestyle condominium community of Athertyn.

Athertyn is a 55+ lifestyle community in the park-like setting at Haverford Reserve

Ground was broken for the project in February 2011 and is scheduled to be completed in the Spring of 2012. Designers for the project are planning to implement a geothermal system to power the center to make it a green, environmentally friendly facility. The Community Recreation and Environmental Center at Haverford Reserve is scheduled to open to the public in May of 2012 for all to enjoy.

The development of the Community Recreation and Environmental Center at Haverford Reserve is shown in the lower right of this aerial view. The Athertyn 55+ lifestyle community and carriage homes are shown in the upper left.

For more details visit the Community Park at Haverford Reserve web page For more information on the playground visit the Freedom Playground web site

Athertyn Enrichment Series - S'Wonderful Evening with Porter and Gershwin

2011-06-01T11:43:00.001-04:00

As part of the on going Enrichment Series, the Athertyn team and the Pohlig Organization are inviting folks to be their guest on an exciting journey to adventure, self-discovery and learning. Members of the Delaware Valley Opera Company will delight the audience with a musical playlist composed by two of the greatest contributors to the Great American Songbook.

The Athertyn team, the Pohlig Organization, and The Delaware Valley Opera Company present "S'Wonderful Evening with Porter and Gershwin"

This event will be held Wednesday, June 8th, 2011 from 7:30 to 9:00 pm at the Athertyn Clubhouse, 7700 Parkview Drive, Haverford, PA. Those interested in attending this event can R.S.V.P. to Carrie Sullivan at 610-647-4700 or send an email to info@athertyn.com to reserve seats.

Rightsizing without Compromise

2011-05-31T12:34:00.002-04:00

Admittedly, the common human predisposition is to reject change in all its forms, even on those occasions when we know it may lead to a positive outcome. The truth of the matter is change is scary, specifically because of the fear of the unknown and the uncertain. It is also true that change is inevitable, so the only method for coping with change is to address it head on and to embrace the moment.

In this way, many baby boomers often struggle with committing to their decision to "rightsize" their life, primarily due to the misconception that "rightsizing" is synonymous with "downsizing." Yet, many lifestyle communities, such as Athertyn at Haverford Reserve, prove that preconception wrong through their offerings of condominium homes with plenty of space for new beginnings without the slightest sense of sacrifice.

Dive into the good life at Athertyn

As Ciji Wares says, rightsizing "has more to do with the 'right' of the equation than 'size.'" As she describes the process- it’s the "thoughtful selection of the environment, possessions, and people that resonate for us." It means creating that ideal living space which frees you from your inhibitions and that fulfills you emotionally. Lifestyle communities, such as Pohlig's, do just this by providing homeowners with a simplified, maintenance-free lifestyle tailored to this phase in their lives. It’s not about bringing a previous stage in age to a close; it's about creating a new opportunity for growth and life inspired by this period in your lifetime. It's an exciting practice of taking advantage of the age you are "right" now and not about lingering in the outdated past.

One of Ciji's most valuable pieces of advice for all baby boomers approaching this moment of truth in their life, is "The one constant in life is change. It’s okay to be frightened, but seek out better solutions anyway!" Lifestyle communities provide you with that better solution.

Related posts:
People In Action - Ciji Ware
How to Know Rightsizing is Right for You
How to Rightsize

Credits for these excerpts: Ciji Ware, author of Rightsizing Your Life®: Simplifying Your Surroundings While Keeping What Matters Most

Ciji Ware's book, Rightsizing Your Life®: Simplifying Your Surroundings While Keeping What Matters Most can be found at Amazon.com

You can learn more about Ciji Ware at www.rightsizingyourlife.com

People In Action - Chris Bergh

2011-05-27T12:30:00.003-04:00

Chris Bergh, Project Manager at Pohlig Builders

Chris began working for Pohlig as a field laborer during college breaks, and then returned full-time after completing his degree in Construction Systems Management from Ohio State University. Chris translates client requests for the field and subcontractors and facilitates projects from permitting through completion. In his free time, Chris coaches youth league lacrosse. Chris' exposure to Pohlig Builders began at a young age, as his grandparents' house was one of Todd and Don Pohlig's first home projects in the 1970's.

Historic Highlight: Working in Tandem to Make Our Community Better

2011-05-25T10:41:00.001-04:00

Pohlig Builders and Prudential Fox & Roach Realtors team up to host a Philabundance Food Drive

Pohlig Builders teamed up with the Prudential Fox & Roach Realtors Haverford Home Marketing Center, Rosemont, Bryn Mawr, Haverford Station and Gladwyne offices to host a Philabundance Food Drive and Brokers Open on Tuesday, October 12. It is hard to believe there are 900,000 people in the Delaware Valley who don’t have enough food. For almost 25 years, Philabundance has worked to fight hunger in the area.

Want to make a gift? Call 215-339-0900 or visit www.philabundance.org

How you Know Rightsizing is Right for You

2011-05-24T14:25:00.002-04:00

While the inevitable forces of time and change might seem to be daunting in the mind of today’s baby boomers, Ciji Ware, author of the book Rightsizing Your Life, seems to think otherwise as she actively seeks the opportunity to voice her opinion on how to embrace this new stage in age by rightsizing one’s life in the best way possible. As she describes it in her book, rightsizing is a process involving an assessment of “all aspects of living, holding out the opportunity ‘to get it right, once and for all.’ which is exactly what Todd and Don Pohlig had in mind through the creation of their new 55+ lifestyle community, Athertyn at Haverford Reserve. Through this new establishment the Pohlig organization has created a “rightsize” lifestyle designed to, as Ware would describe it, “liberate you from many real-life burdens and free you in ways you cannot now imagine.” Lifestyle communities, such as Pohlig’s, have taken Ciji Ware’s concept of “rightsizing” and have made it a reality by offering empty nesters a jumpstart into that process.

Athertyn at Haverford Reserve will relieve you from many real life burdons

However, for most baby boomers there endures this lingering question of how you know whether “rightsizing” is “right” for you at this point in your life. Ciji portrays the beginnings of this self-evolution as a sort of “moment of truth” when something occurs to make you realize that it’s time for a change- “Your old life doesn’t fit anymore.” It’s time to indulge in your fantasies of leading a simplified life by redefining your way of living, which is exactly what lifestyle communities are able to offer.

To help better identify that “moment of truth,” Ciji Ware has provided a list of scenarios describing when it’s finally time to make that change and enter the process of “rightsizing:”

You’re sick of putting up storm windows or mowing the lawn.

You’ve occasionally wondered how many sets of dishes a person can eat off at one time or how many Beanie Babies constitutes a collection

The family pet has passed away.

Your last child has gone to college – and your home feels empty.

Your kids are grown and have moved into their own places; your home feels quiet and dull.

Your spouse has passed away (or asked for a divorce) and your home feels to big and probably costs too much financially or emotionally to maintain.

You’ve at last met the love of your life and are combining households.

You’re moving in with a friend or family member and are combining households.

Half of your friends have left town – permanently.

You have an unrequited yen to get out and see more of the world before you die.

The thrill is done from the way you’ve made your living all these years.

Your company gave you a gold watch and declared you retired.

You didn’t get the gold watch, but your full-time job has gone bye-bye.

You’ve survived a crisis – a serious illness, death, or abandonment of a spouse, a natural disaster like Hurricane Katrina, or a reversal of financial fortune - and are forced to make a change.

Your elderly parents or sibling are failing and need your help.

You’re not a spry as you once were and you need help.

You are an incredible, forward-thinking person who never lets any grass grow under your feet and are planning ahead!

Related posts:
People In Action - Ciji Ware
Rightsizing Without Compromise

How to Rightsize

Credits for these excerpts: Ciji Ware, author of Rightsizing Your Life®: Simplifying Your Surroundings While Keeping What Matters Most

Rightsizing Your Life®: Simplifying Your Surroundings While Keeping What Matters Most is available at Amazon.com

You can learn more about Ciji Ware at www.rightsizingyourlife.com

People In Action - Ciji Ware

2011-05-23T11:18:00.003-04:00

Best known for her talents as a radio and television personality in Los Angles, Ciji Ware has covered a wide range of topics including health and lifestyle. She has over seventeen years of experience in the broadcasting field and has written a total of eight books over the years. Ciji was the first woman graduate from Harvard College to become the president of its alumni association. The mother of a grown son, she currently lives in the San Francisco Bay area with her husband of 35 years and dog named Ensign Aubrey.

Ciji Ware is a well known radio and television personality as well as an author of eight books

Ciji’s book, Rightsizing Your Life was chosen to be among the top 5 books on retirement in 2007 by The Wall Street Journal. It demonstrates how to pare down household possessions in a systematic way to reduce the stress, and find "true liberation from too much stuff" as you approach retirement without giving up the things that you love the most.

Related posts:
How to Know Rightsizing is Right for You
Rightsizing Without Compromise
How to Rightsize

Rightsizing Your Life®: Simplifying Your Surroundings While Keeping What Matters Most by Ciji Ware is available at Amazon.com

Look for future blogs featuring excerpts from Ciji's book. You can learn more about Ciji Ware at www.rightsizingyourlife.com

Telomeres Tells Us More about Living Longer

2011-05-20T14:40:00.002-04:00

"Stress reduction in this era is almost an oxymoron..." says Anita Vogel of Fox News. In today’s world it's easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of responsibilities and commitments that we all have. Between, work, family, the house, the car, and friends- the list goes on. What we don't always realize is the far-reaching effects of allowing our bodies to undergo such immense pressure in the long-run. In fact, an article by Fox News cited the recent studies of the University of San Francisco (UCSF) that proved that we have the ability to lengthen our lives by reducing the amount of stress in our life.

Athertyn’s 50+ lifestyle community offers homeowners a simplified, maintenance-free, and most importantly, a stress reduced lifestyle

How, you may ask? By observing the telomeres, a gene-protecting DNA unit, UCSF has discovered that by lengthening telomeres we can actually lengthen the life of the cell and improve and extend our good health. In their studies, they observed that those individuals living under more stressful and traumatic conditions had considerably shorter telomeres than those individuals living under normal levels of stress.

What does this mean for the health conscious baby boomers and empty nesters of today? Stress less and live longer! From Anita's best words of advice, "Getting de-stressed takes work and determination. For some it will involve a change in lifestyle and the way they view stress and hardships. Think yoga instead of sitting around and worrying." We couldn’t agree more. With the more recent establishment of lifestyle communities, such as Atheryn, innovative thinkers like Don and Todd Pohlig have created lifestyle housing geared toward relieving homeowners from those everyday worries and stressors. Their 50+ lifestyle community not only gives residents the opportunity to indulge in the activities and hobbies that they enjoy all within the walls of their clubhouse, but they also offer homeowners a simplified, maintenance-free, and most importantly, a stress reduced lifestyle. Perhaps lifestyle communities are just that "change in lifestyle" Anita was talking about?

Reference: Reduce Stress, Extend Your Life, Thanks to DNA's 'Life-Expectancy' Gene by Anita Vogel of Fox News

Related posts:

How you Know Rightsizing is Right for You

Why wait? Boomers finding the time is right to launch the next phase in their lives

Top 3 Reasons to Move to a Lifestyle Community

People In Action - Jessica Canto

2011-05-18T12:20:00.002-04:00

With a calm, levelheaded approach -- and a lot of checklists -- as construction manager Jessica Canto keeps the Pohlig construction department firing smoothly on all cylinders. In her nine years with the company, Jessica has effectively and unflinchingly handled an astonishing amount of detail. From implementing the systems and process that keep the business humming to helping design, price, and coordinate product selections, to bidding out interior trades and managing numerous subcontractors for a project as complex as Athertyn, Jessica is the force responsible for putting the Pohlig vision into action.

Jessica Canto is Construction Manager at Pohlig Builders

Capably balancing work and family life, Jessica is a mother of two sons, Max(12) and Sam (5). When not in the office or on a job site, she enjoys kayaking, gardening, and participating in outdoor activities with her boys and her husband Chris.

Pohlig Continues Tradition of Environmentally Sensitive Construction and Responsible Land Development at Athertyn at Haverford Reserve

2011-05-16T13:47:00.002-04:00

From its inception, Haverford Reserve presented a unique infill opportunity to provide a mature Main Line community with a much-needed housing element and simultaneously create the largest suburban park in the area, connecting residents with a spectacular surrounding eco-environment reclaimed through the constructive reuse of an abandoned site.

Haverford Reserve, is a 209-acre parcel in the heart of the Main Line developed by Pohlig Builders and The Goldenberg Group as a preservation community on the site of a former hospital

The property, Haverford Reserve, is a 209-acre parcel in the heart of the Main Line developed by Pohlig Builders and The Goldenberg Group as a preservation community on the site of a former hospital. A 165-acre park accounts for 80 percent of the site's total area, and 90 percent of all new construction is contained within the previously developed footprint, preserving existing woodlands, stream valleys, and meadows.

Athertyn at Haverford Reserve clusters condominium homes in six four-story buildings around a private clubhouse, pool, tennis court, community vegetable garden, and formal flower gardens on a plateau overlooking 120 acres of open space. Extensive landscaping, gazebo reflection areas, and strategically placed benches along meandering pedestrian paths create direct connections to the adjacent park, where both active and passive recreational areas provide residents with miles of nature trails for walking, biking, and hiking right at their front door, bridging the gap between developed and natural areas.

Athertyn at Haverford Reserve clusters new condominium homes around a private clubhouse, pool, tennis court, and community gardens

Athertyn provides a lifestyle housing option previously lacking on the Main Line, offering its burgeoning boomer-generation the ability to exchange the burdens and costs of a large, empty-nest home for the freedom of maintenance-free, energy efficient, one-level living close to existing infrastructure and public transportation.

Pohlig brought its environmentally sensitive approach to every aspect of Athertyn’s development, from the recycling of concrete and metal from the old, abandoned structures to the use of energy-efficient materials and appliances, to provisions for recycling separation and storage in the completed buildings. With socialization and the pursuit of new experiences such an integral part of lifestyle living, new conservation ideas emerged with near complete participation once residents were made aware of the builder's efforts to minimize the community's carbon footprint.

Athertyn's innovative storm water management system reduces runoff by 50 percent as compared with the previous site use, improving the quality of any remaining runoff through pollution reduction methods such as rain gardens and vegetative filters that protect streams and wetlands. The land use plan and curvilinear entry drive incorporated existing mature trees and added 1,292 new native trees to the property, welcoming the broader community while helping to transform a once blighted site into an extraordinary pastoral setting.

Historic Highlight: The Pohlig Team Helps Make the 2009 Habitat for Humanity's Building Blitz a Huge Success

2011-05-16T11:49:00.000-04:00

The Home Builders Association of Chester and Delaware Counties (HBA) sponsored the Habitat for Humanity’s Building Blitz in 2009, during which two twin homes were built by volunteers and members of the HBA.

Pohlig Builders’ David Malec, Todd Pohlig, and John Lyon take a break during the 2009 HBA of Chester and Delaware Counties Habitat for Humanity Blitz Build

As usual, the Pohlig team took part including Dave Malec, Todd Pohlig, and John Lyon. On this occasion however, the team had the pleasure of taking part in the Blitz Build with Philadelphia Eagles’ cornerback Sheldon Brown who also contributed his time toward the effort.

Todd Pohlig with Philadelphia Eagles’ cornerback Sheldon Brown during the 2009 HBA of Chester and Delaware Counties Habitat for Humanity Blitz Build

New homes under construction for the 2009 HBA of Chester and Delaware Counties Habitat for Humanity Blitz Build

People In Action - David Malec

2011-05-11T11:53:00.005-04:00

David has been a valued member of Pohlig Builders since 1979. Throughout the years he has helped to develop many of the company's systems and procedures.

David Malec has been with Pohlig Builders since 1979

As Senior Superintendent, David manages many construction projects, overseeing the building of homes from the initial start-up to completion. David has a keen eye for architectural detailing and is fanatical about the quality of every aspect of your home. Recently David supervised the construction of the Athertyn Clubhouse at Haverford Reserve.

Out of the office, David enjoys hiking and birding -- even building his own birdhouses -- and is an avid tennis player. He participates yearly in a bike race from Philadelphia to New Jersey to benefit Multiple Sclerosis. A heartfelt thanks goes out to David for his determination and commitment over the years.

Athertyn Enrichment Series - Sizzling Hot BBQ Marinating Pointers

2011-05-10T14:24:00.002-04:00

As part of the on going Enrichment Series, the Athertyn team and the Pohlig Organization are inviting folks to great tastes, self-discovery and learning. Get fired up for the summer season with some new, easy to prepare recipes. You'll relish this demonstration and tasting of the flavors and smells of summer. Presented by Viking Culinary Center and Ferguson Enterprises.

The Athertyn team, the Pohlig Organization, Viking Culinary Center, and Ferguson Enterprises present "Sizzling Hot BBQ Marinating Pointers"

This event will be held Thursday, May 19th, 2011 from 7:30 to 9:00 pm at the Athertyn Clubhouse, 7700 Parkview Drive, Haverford, PA. Those interested in attending this event can R.S.V.P. to Carrie Sullivan at 610-647-4700 or send an email to info@athertyn.com to reserve seats.

How to Live with Dogs in Condominiums

2011-05-09T12:13:00.002-04:00

Making the decision to move can be stressful, especially when it involves owning a dog. Making the change from a single family home to a condominium residence may seem like it is a limitation when you are a dog owner. It does not have to be. Here are some ways that you and your beloved dog can enjoy the same living space.

Life with a dog in a condominium is not only possible, but it can be very rewarding

Obedience

Before you purchase your new condominium, arrange to take your dog on a tour of the community and homes to make sure the dog seems happy in the new surroundings and having other people around. If your dog has some bad habits that may irritate others such as barking and scratching, try to break your dog of these habits before moving into your new home. An obedience school may be worth while. Keep in mind that not everyone likes dogs so the more people friendly your dog is, the more people will like your dog!

If you feel that your dog is overly active and may run around and make noise while you are away, consider investing in a crate with bedding and place in a cozy corner. This way your dog has a comfortable, safe, “den” to stay in while you are away and is less likely to stay out of trouble.

If you find that your dog likes to chew on moldings or finishes in your home, consider using “bitter apple” spray. This gives the dog a nasty taste in their mouth and tends to keep dogs away from areas you do not want them to bite or chew. You can also purchase vinyl molding covers to protect baseboards and such if you find your dog scratches or chews at a particular spot.

Diet

Dogs living in condominium homes may get less exercise than dogs that have an out door run. Adjusting the diet of the dog may be helpful in preventing the dog from becoming overweight. An overweight dog is an unhealthy dog and may change their behavior. Consult your veterinarian for the best change in diet for your dog.

Bathroom Habits

Find the quickest exit to the outside in case of a doggy emergency. You may want to invest in an indoor dog potty which is basically a large cat box with litter covered with an artificial grass-like mat material which allows fluid to pass through. These mats can be cleaned or replaced so the odor does not become a problem. If your dog has an emergency, they can then use the indoor doggy bathroom. They do still need to go outside for exercise daily to maintain their good health.

If your dog has an accident on the common area floor or elevators; vinegar can be a useful item when cleaning up dog urine.

Exercise

If you work or travel occasionally, find other dog owners in your community and socialize with them. You may be able to take turns walking each other’s dogs when the time is needed. This could be a great thing for both you and your dog!

You may not be able to open the back door and let your dog run free, but making sure your dog gets plenty of exercise will keep them happy in your new home. By taking your dog for frequent daily walks will help them with this transition. Typically, the larger the dog, the more vigorous exercise they need. Condominium communities with walking trails and parks nearby are a good match for you and your dog.

Athertyn at Haverford Reserve is a Dog Friendly 55+ Lifestyle Living Community

Find a Dog Friendly Community

Some associations have restrictions on owning dogs or limit the size of the dog that may live with you in your home. Finding a dog friendly community can avoid problems with your new neighbors. They know that dogs are allowed and expect to see them around and in the common areas on their comings and goings.

Athertyn at Haverford Reserve on the Main Line of Philadelphia is a dog friendly 55+ lifestyle community with spacious residences. Visit www.athertyn.com for more details.

Seeing is Believing!

2011-05-06T15:15:00.000-04:00

Experience Athertyn's lifestyle, value, and location at our "Meet the Builder" Open House, Sunday, May 15

Todd and Don Pohlig, builders of Athertyn at Haverford Reserve pictured here at the Athertyn Residents' Clubhouse Gazebo

From the moment you drive through its welcoming stone entrance gate, it's clear that Athertyn at Haverford Reserve is an exceptional community. A winding tree-lined drive leads to the stately condominium residences and private clubhouse, all beautifully situated on a scenic plateau in the heart of the 209-acre Haverford Reserve. Just two miles from the Haverford train station, Athertyn offers convenient maintenance-free living and exceptional value right here on the Main Line.

Builders Don and Todd Pohlig will host a "Meet the Builder" Open House from 1PM until 4 PM on Sunday, May 15, at the Athertyn Sales & Design Center at 5109 Parkview Drive, near the intersection of College Avenue and Darby Road in Haverford, PA. Guests will have the opportunity to tour the award-winning residents' clubhouse and two fully decorated model homes, including the newly redecorated Clairemont model. Freshly spruced up for spring, the Clairemont is a spacious, light-filled corner design with a private terrace accessed from both the living room and the master suite. Like every home at Athertyn, the Clairemont features energy-saving appliances and energy-efficient construction designed to conserve resources and reduce energy bills.

The homes at Athertyn are lightfilled, open floor plans perfect for everyday living and entertaining

In addition to energy savings, each Athertyn model offers outstanding livability, with beautifully appointed kitchens, separate dining rooms, and spacious open floor plans ideal for entertaining. The buildings' feature a classic Main Line architectural style, with sturdy steel and concrete construction that contributes to superior sound insulation and a secure "pick up and go" lifestyle. Athertyn was recently named 2011 Smart Growth Community of the Year by the Home Builders Association of Chester and Delaware Counties (HBA) in recognition of the efficient and innovative use of land that guided every aspect of Athertyn’s design and construction.

This Athertyn home features a master bedroom with bay window and sitting alcove

A private residents’ clubhouse is central to the community’s lifestyle, with its fitness center, executive style library and conference room, club room with billiards, and great room serving as both a social center and an extension of each resident's home. In addition to the tennis court, putting green, and pool with spa, residents enjoy access to community flower and vegetable gardens, as well as five miles of nature and walking trails that connect the community with 120 acres of preserved open space and 45 acres of township environmental and recreational areas.

For more information about the Meet the Builder Open House, call 610-525-5110 or visit www.athertyn.com. Athertyn is marketed by Prudential Fox & Roach, Realtors (610-527-6400 or 610-649-4500.)

About Pohlig and Athertyn at Haverford Reserve

After 35 years of building the finest custom homes on the Main Line, Pohlig has become synonymous with personalization. Nationally recognized for their superior craftsmanship and attention to detail, the company was named “America’s Best Custom Home Builder” and has been the recipient of numerous other industry, civic, and business honors. With Athertyn at Haverford Reserve, itself the winner of several national and regional awards for livability and design, Todd and Don Pohlig bring the elegance of Main Line architecture and culture to condominium living.

The Freedom Playground at Haverford Reserve

2011-05-04T10:00:00.001-04:00

At Freedom Playground, children with disabilities and the children of adults with disabilities will have a place to play, grow and develop alongside one another. The playground will offer an extensive variety of activities that promote social interaction, gross motor skills, fine motor skills, sensory integration and most importantly, fun!

The Freedom Playground at Haverford Reserve today

Pohlig Organization employees, Roberto Campos and Don Sargent donated their time to the Haverford Township blitz build of the new all-abilities playground. The playground uses composite lumber for both safety and longevity, and a special "Poured In Place" ground cover that provides accessibility for wheelchairs, walkers, strollers and toddlers.

The Freedom Playground at Haverford Reserve before construction began

Roberto Campos and Don Sargent of the Pohlig Organization donated their time to build the Freedom Playground at Haverford Reserve

The playground is being used today and is a work in progress. Additions are being made along the way and when it is complete will be a great place for children of all abilities to have fun!

The Freedom Playground at Haverford Reserve after the blitz build project

For directions and info visit the Freedom Playground at Haverford Reserve website at

http://www.freedomplay.org

visit them on Facebook:

http://www.facebook.com/FreedomPlayground

Why Now is the Best Time to Buy a House

2011-05-02T10:56:00.004-04:00

Home sales in the Philadelphia region are fairing better than the rest of the country according to Prudential, Fox & Roach Chairman and CEO Larry Flick.

Prudential, Fox & Roach Chairman and CEO Larry Flick

“It is no surprise that home sales have decreased compared to the first quarter of last year, as the federal tax credit is no longer fueling the housing market,” reports Steve Storti, Senior VP of Marketing, Prudential Fox & Roach. “However, sales have continued to improve steadily over the past six months and conditions are right for the market to rebound in the near future as the economy continues to recover.”

Flick expects that the economy and real estate market will be improving in the near future. Making conditions ripe for home sales in the Philadelphia region, rebounding sooner than other parts of the country. He states that now is the best time ever to buy a house due to low interest rates and low house prices. Larry points out that 81% of people out there believe that a house is still the best long term investment to make.

Watch Prudential, Fox & Roach Chairman and CEO Larry Flick give an interview on why now is a great time to buy a home.

Read the accompanying article at the Prudential, Fox & Roach Blog

A Great Way to Clean Out Your Closet!

2011-04-28T11:47:00.002-04:00

Help us help others! Bring your current styled and gently-used women's business attire to the Athertyn Clubhouse, 7700 Parkview Drive, Haverford. Give a deserving woman the chance to make a good impression as she searches for a job.

Help Pohlig Builders help others by donating your gently-used women's business attire to The Career Wardrobe

Every second Tuesday of each month from 5-7pm, our volunteers will be accepting:

Complete business suits (pants or skirt)
Easy to match Separates (pants, skirts, blazers, blouses/tops)
Accessories (shoes, scarves, bags, jewelry)
Black, tan, khaki pants or skirts
Polo shirts (all colors)
Scrubs (without logos)
New/Unused pantyhose and toiletries

For more details, call Carrie Sullivan

610-647-4700 or visit:

www.careerwardrobe.org

Spring Time is the Best Time for Home Maintenance

2011-04-25T11:56:00.003-04:00

Preventive Maintenance is very important to ensure a safe and efficient home and to maintain your home’s long-term value. Spring and fall is the best time to perform annual maintenance tasks.

Spring Time is the Best Time for Home Maintenance

Semi-Annual Maintenance Checklist:

INTERIOR:

Air Conditioner – If you have a separate air conditioning system, clean and change filters as the manufacturer recommends. Make sure to turn humidifiers off when the air conditioning is on.

Heating Systems – Read the instruction manual for your system for specific directions.

Basement and Foundation - Check for cracks and moisture and discuss with a professional.

Interior Caulking and Grout - Inspect caulking and grout around tubs, showers, and sinks. If the caulking has pulled away, scrape it out and recaulk.

Water Heater - Drain water until clear of sediment; inspect flue assembly (gas heater); check for leaks and corrosion.

Clothes Washer - Clean water inlet filters; check hoses and replace if leaking.

Clothes Dryer - Vacuum lint from ducts and surrounding areas.

Refrigerator - Clean drain hole and pan (more often in warm weather); wash door gasket; vacuum condenser coils.

Wiring - Check for frayed cords and wires; check exposed wiring in basements, and call an electrician is if looks inferior or dangerous.

Exhaust Fans - Clean grill and fan blades.

Range Hood Fan - Wash fan blades, filters and housing.

Bathroom - Check for evidence of leaks around and under sinks, showers, toilets, and tubs.

Sink - Check all faucets, hose bibs, and supply valves for leakage.

Toilet - Check for leaks in water feed and tank bottom.

Breaker Box - Trip circuit breakers and ground fault interrupters to insure proper protection.

Home Security – For security systems, check that the alarm and circuits are in working order; inspect the sensors one by one; and check primary and backup batteries.

Miscellaneous Interior:

Inspect Fire Extinguisher.

Replace batteries in Smoke Detectors.

Clean out fireplaces.

Check walls and wooden materials for mildew and rot.

Check for pest infestation.

EXTERIOR:

Outside Walls – Check for termite tubes and damaged wood.

Gutters and Downspouts – Keep clear of leaves and debris.

Windows and Doors – Check for leaks and caulk where necessary.

Roofs – A qualified roofer should inspect the roof every three years.

Grading – Make certain that water drains away from the home.

Driveways, Walks and Steps – Inspect for cracks and settling and make any necessary repairs.

Learn about "maintenance-free" living on the Main Line at www.athertyn.com

Athertyn at Haverford Reserve Named Smart Growth Community of the Year

2011-04-22T11:36:00.018-04:00

Athertyn at Haverford Reserve, the Main Line’s premier lifestyle community, has been named 2011 Smart Growth Community of the Year by the Home Builders Association of Chester and Delaware Counties (HBA).

The Smart Growth award recognizes the efficient and innovative use of land that guided every aspect of Athertyn's design and construction, from the recycling of concrete and metal from the site's previous structures to the use of energy-efficient materials and appliances throughout the newly constructed residences. Athertyn residents have wholeheartedly embraced our commitment to sustainable development, taking advantage of convenient areas for recycling separation and storage found in each residential building.

An aerial view of Athertyn at Haverford Reserve is shown with the first residences completed

Set in the heart of the 209-acre Haverford Reserve, Athertyn offers convenient maintenance-free living in a beautiful parkside location less than two miles from the Haverford train station. Five miles of nature trails bridge the gap between natural and developed areas, connecting Athertyn with 120 acres of surrounding parkland and 45 adjacent acres of township environmental and recreational areas. Pohlig planned the placement of roads and buildings around existing trees and landscape features, and even the street lights and ornamental lighting fixtures throughout the community are specifically designed to reduce ambient light pollution.

Green building practices are implemented in construction of Athertyn at Haverford Reserve preserving 120 acres of open space for parkland.

In addition to Pohlig's win in the Smart Growth category, several Pohlig associates also took home top honors at the HBA's 22nd annual Pyramid Awards ceremony, which was held April 14 at the Springfield Country Club. The following Pohlig team members were recognized for their professionalism, dedication, and ability to produce outstanding results:

• Best Selections Coordinator, Merit Award - Cassie Barnes
• Superintendent of the Year, Merit Award - Frank Duffy
• Marketing Director of the Year - Carrie Sullivan
• Sales Recognition - Maris Ekert, Athertyn

Speaking as a Principal of the Pohlig organization, we are extremely proud of the work we’ve done at Athertyn. Preservation and environmental issues are very important to our residents, and Athertyn gives them the opportunity to enjoy spectacular natural surroundings and a maintenance-free lifestyle right here, close to everything they love about the Main Line.

Arranged in six four-story buildings, Athertyn’s upscale condominium residences feature traditional Main Line architecture with steel and concrete construction, including natural brick, limestone, and stucco exteriors. A private residents’ clubhouse is central to the community, with a fitness center, executive style library and conference room, a club room with billiards, and a great room offering abundant options for socialization and recreation. Outside, residents enjoy a tennis court, putting green, pool with spa, formal gardens, and community flower and vegetable gardens.

The first completed building of Athertyn at Haverford Reserve is shown with the luxurious clubhouse and full amenities

Athertyn at Haverford Reserve is located on Parkview Drive, near the intersection of College Avenue and Darby Road in Haverford, PA. Two fully decorated model homes are on display at the Athertyn Sales & Design Center, open daily from 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. or by appointment at 5109 Parkview Drive. Directions can be found at www.athertyn.com.

About Pohlig and Athertyn at Haverford Reserve

After 35 years of building the finest custom homes on the Main Line, Pohlig has become synonymous with personalization. Nationally recognized for their superior craftsmanship and attention to detail, the company was named “America’s Best Custom Home Builder” and has been the recipient of numerous other industry, civic, and business honors. With Athertyn at Haverford Reserve, itself the winner of several national and regional awards for livability and design, Don Pohlig and I bring the elegance of Main Line architecture and culture to condominium living.

Athertyn Enrichment Series - The Master of Suspense, Alfred Hitchcock

2011-04-19T13:46:00.000-04:00

As part of the on going Enrichment Series, the Athertyn team and the Pohlig Organization are inviting folks to be their guest on an exciting journey to adventure, self-discovery and learning. Join us to view and discuss clips from great Hitchcock films, as well as to learn about the director and some of his most notable cinematic trademarks: blonde women in trouble, danger in everyday places, Machiavellian matrons, and of course, his iconic cameos. This event will be presented by Andrew J. Douglas, Ph.D.

The Athertyn team, the Pohlig Organization, and Andrew J. Douglas, Ph.D. present "The Master of Suspense, Alfred Hitchcock"

This event will be held Wednesday, April 27th, 2011 from 7:30 to 9:00 pm at the Athertyn Clubhouse, 7700 Parkview Drive, Haverford, PA. Those interested in attending this event can R.S.V.P. to Carrie Sullivan at 610-647-4700 or send an email to info@athertyn.com to reserve seats.

Smart construction attracts green buyers to Athertyn at Haverford Reserve

2011-04-15T14:08:00.002-04:00

Environmentally conscious buyers find plenty to love at the Main Line’s premier 55+ community

For many buyers, the environmental impact and ongoing energy costs of a new home have become as much a factor in the purchase decision as the design of the home itself. Buyers are choosing rightsizing over super-sizing in growing numbers, while energy-efficient appliances and high-performance building materials have helped to bridge the gap between luxury and environmental responsibility.

Green construction is incorporated into the design of Athertyn at Haverford Reserve

The Pohlig organization, which in 2007 won the Montgomery County Planning Commission’s award for sensitive land development, has long shared its customers’ desire to tread lightly. Pohlig continues its tradition of environmentally sensitive construction and responsible land development within Athertyn at Haverford Reserve, a premier lifestyle community on the Main Line.

“Preservation and environmental issues are extremely important to our customers,” said Don Pohlig, the hands-on principal of the Pohlig organization who oversees Athertyn’s construction. “Athertyn appeals to buyers because it’s built with green principles in mind by a builder that shares their commitment to responsible, earth-friendly practices.”

Pohlig has brought an environmental approach to every aspect of Athertyn’s development. Surrounded by more than 120 acres of protected open space, Athertyn will be built entirely within the footprint of a former hospital, preserving existing woodlands, stream valleys, and meadows. The community’s stormwater management system will reduce runoff from the current site by 50 percent, and will improve the quality of the remaining runoff through pollution reduction methods including rain gardens, biofiltration, and riparian buffers, which further protect streams and wetlands from sedimentation, surface runoff, and erosion.

A system of nature trails connecting Athertyn with the preserved parkland and adjacent recreational areas have been laid out to protect the natural habitat within the parkland. Pohlig planned the placement of streets and buildings around existing trees and landscape features, setting additional mature trees aside for replanting once construction is complete. Extensive landscaping will create a seamless transition between Athertyn and the surrounding nature preserve, while street lights and ornamental lighting fixtures throughout the community have been specifically designed to reduce ambient light pollution.

Arranged in six four-story buildings, Athertyn’s upscale condominium residences feature traditional Main Line architecture with steel and concrete construction, including natural brick, limestone, and stucco exteriors. Inside, comfortably proportioned floor plans and abundant natural light contribute to energy conservation, while Energy Star appliances, Low-E glass windows, and high-efficiency heating and cooling systems further boost the homes’ efficiency rating, as well as their appeal to buyers seeking to simplify. “Athertyn residents can expect a significant savings in their utility bills as they enjoy maintenance-free lifestyle living,” Pohlig said.

The Arts Come to the Main Line

2011-04-13T13:48:00.003-04:00

Pohlig Builders and The Athertyn Team at Haverford Reserve are proud sponsors of the Fine Art Sale 2011 brought to you by the Main Line Art Center.

The Main Line Art Center Fine Art Sale 2011 sponsored in part by Pohlig Builders and the Athertyn Team at Haverford Reserve

The Main Line Art Center's Fine Art Sale is the perfect opportunity for both collectors and those new to art buying to purchase professional, unique works of art at affordable prices, in a comfortable environment. Each year they fill the gallery with original works of art in a variety of mediums, including oils, pastels, watercolors and sculpture, by professional artists from the region.

Just a sample of the art that will be on display at the Main Line Arts Center Fine Art Sale 2011 sponsored by Pohlig Builders and the Athertyn team at Haverford Reserve

Open to the public April 16 through May 25th or attend the First Friday Reception on Friday, May 6 from 6-9 pm.

Another sample of the art that will be on sale at the Main Line Arts Center Fine Art Sale 2011 sponsored by Pohlig Builders and the Athertyn team at Haverford Reserve

Are You Ready for a Change in Lifestyle?

2011-04-11T10:00:00.001-04:00

My wife told me this would be a good move... she never gets tired of being right.

Athertyn at Haverford Reserve

the luxury...

Everyone on the Main Line knows that the Pohlig name is synonymous with elegance and detail. Here at Athertyn, they've outdone themselves. Our beautiful home is exactly what we had in mind for this new chapter in our lives.

The interior of the Athertyn at Haverford Reserve condominium homes exude the elegance of Main Line Living Simplified!

the lifestyle...

One glimpse of the Clubhouse was all it took. My wife loves the pool and I like the golf simulator. We exercise together in the fitness center and just bought new tennis racquets to try out on the court. But the biggest surprise of all is how many great new friends we've made -- and our old friends love to come play with us!

The clubhouse at Athertyn at Haverford Reserve features a pool, tennis court, golf simulator, and putting green.

the location...

What could be better than a quiet parkside setting in the heart of the Main Line? We're close to all the things we enjoy -- and we're five minutes from the train station if we want to run into the city for a concert or ballgame. This truly is "Main Line Living Simplified".

The elegant entrance of Building 5000 of Athertyn at Haverford Reserve

the logic...

We were ready for a change. After years of taking care of our house, we decided it was time to take care of ourselves -- time to have more fun and less work. Athertyn made sense for this in our lives. We wanted a simpler life, but not a boring one -- and an elegant, comfortable home that didn't need constant attention. Most of all, we wanted to be around people like us -- active, fun and interesting. Pohlig's new 55+ community was the answer. Athertyn is amazing... and it's everything we wanted -- right where we wanted it. It's like living in a five star hotel with a five star clubhouse. We should have moved sooner!

Athertyn at Haverford Reserve entrance to Parkview Drive