Can I buy a home in South Jersey while still living in Philadelphia?

Yes. Many buyers live in Philadelphia and purchase homes in South Jersey by getting pre-approved, exploring properties online or with virtual tours, coordinating with a local agent, and timing visits for in-person tours when needed. Effective planning and a strong offer strategy improve success.([turn0search0][turn0search5])

How do I handle tours and neighborhood research from out of state?

Use a combination of virtual home tours and live video walk-throughs, ask your agent for neighborhood drive-throughs, and plan occasional in-person visits. Research schools, commute routes, amenities, and taxes in advance.([turn0search5])

What should Philly buyers know about South Jersey commuter access?

South Jersey offers strong commute options back to Philadelphia, including PATCO and high-speed lines, plus convenient bridge access—making it feasible to live in towns like Cherry Hill or Mount Laurel while still working in the city.([turn0search0])

Why are Philly residents choosing South Jersey homes?

Many Philadelphia residents are moving to South Jersey for more space, lower prices compared with some Philly neighborhoods, larger yards, and family-friendly communities, while still enjoying manageable commutes to the city.([turn0search0])

Can I buy a home in South Jersey while still living in Philadelphia?

Yes. Many buyers live in Philadelphia and purchase homes in South Jersey by getting pre-approved, working with a local agent, using virtual tours, and scheduling in-person showings strategically during the buying process.

How do I handle tours and neighborhood research from Philadelphia?

Buyers can use virtual tours, agent-recorded videos, neighborhood previews, and occasional in-person visits to evaluate homes, schools, commute routes, and community amenities before making an offer.

What should Philadelphia buyers know about South Jersey commuting?

South Jersey offers convenient access to Philadelphia through major bridges and PATCO rail lines, making towns like Cherry Hill, Haddonfield, and Mount Laurel popular choices for commuters.

Why are Philadelphia residents moving to South Jersey?

Many Philadelphia residents choose South Jersey for more space, family-friendly neighborhoods, suburban lifestyles, and greater housing value while still maintaining manageable commutes to the city.

Published November 27, 2025

How to Buy a Home While Living in Philadelphia (and Enter South Jersey Market)

Written by Mary Murphy

How to Buy a Home While Living in Philadelphia (and Enter South Jersey Market) header image.

Buying a home in South Jersey while living in Philadelphia has become one of the most common moves for local buyers. With lower property taxes, more space, and family-friendly neighborhoods—plus quick access back to the city—South Jersey offers a great alternative for Philly residents seeking affordability and quality of life.

If you’re considering crossing the bridge, here’s your complete guide to navigating the process smoothly, from understanding the market to managing tours and closing logistics.

1. Know Why South Jersey Appeals to Philly Buyers

Many Philadelphia residents choose South Jersey because it offers:

More square footage for your budget
Lower property taxes than many PA suburbs
Quiet neighborhoods and strong school districts
Easy access to Center City via bridges and PATCO
A suburban lifestyle without moving too far from the city

Popular counties for Philly commuters include Camden County, Burlington County, and Gloucester County.

2. Get Familiar With the Top Commuter-Friendly Towns

Your ideal town depends on your lifestyle and commute needs. Consider:

Closest to Bridges & PATCO

Collingswood
Haddonfield
Haddon Township
Cherry Hill

Budget-Friendly & Growing

Bellmawr
Gloucester City
Deptford
Runnemede

Suburban + Highly Rated Schools

Moorestown
Voorhees
Medford

Spend time exploring these areas on weekends to see which feels most like home.

3. Understand the Tax and Cost Differences

While New Jersey is known for higher property taxes, many South Jersey towns still offer better value and more space than equivalent Philadelphia neighborhoods.

Financial differences to consider:

NJ taxes may be higher, but utilities and insurance can be lower
No city wage tax like in Philadelphia
Most towns offer more land and larger homes for the price

Work with an agent who can break down the true monthly cost of each town.

**4. Get Pre-Approved With a Lender Licensed in Both PA & NJ**

When you’re buying across state lines, your lender must be able to close a loan in New Jersey.

Look for:

Lenders licensed in PA and NJ
Experience with cross-state buyers
Guidance on NJ-specific closing costs
Competitive rates tailored to the South Jersey market

This keeps the process smooth and avoids delays during underwriting.

5. Use Virtual Tours to Narrow Your Options

Because you live in Philly, schedule:

Virtual walk-throughs
Agent-recorded video tours
Drive-by previews before scheduling in-person tours

This saves time and ensures you only cross the bridge for homes that truly fit your needs.

6. Plan Your In-Person Showing Days Efficiently

Depending on the area, certain towns can be 15–45 minutes from Center City.

Helpful tips:

Group showings by location
Avoid peak bridge traffic when possible
Preview neighborhoods in the morning and evening to gauge traffic and noise

Your agent can structure your tour days to maximize your time.

7. Understand NJ-Specific Home Buying Requirements

New Jersey home buying has a few differences compared to Pennsylvania:

Attorney review period: Usually 3 days
Different inspection timelines
Different property disclosure requirements

Work with professionals familiar with both states—this ensures nothing falls through the cracks.

8. Prepare for Closing Logistics

Most Philly-based buyers close in NJ without hassle. You can choose between:

In-person closing
Mobile notary
Remote closing (if available through your lender and title company)

Your agent and attorney will coordinate the final steps.

Final Thoughts

Buying in South Jersey while living in Philadelphia is easier than most people think—and offers incredible value, space, and long-term potential. With the right strategy and a knowledgeable local agent, you can transition smoothly across the bridge and into your new home.

Thinking about moving from Philadelphia to South Jersey? Let’s make the process simple. Contact me today for customized neighborhood recommendations and expert guidance from start to finish.