Three houses with that older-suburb charm and a nationally recognized locale

Abington Township’s attributes get noticed nationally. This town has all the advantages of the older suburb: good schools, abundant greenery, a mere 20-minute train ride from Center City. Money magazine ranked it 21st on its list of best places to live for 2008. This week’s homes show why.

Abington

1209 Jericho Rd.

Taxes: $6,750

Situated in the Highland Farms neighborhood, this five-bedroom, 21/2-bath home is within walking distance of public elementary, middle and high schools. The first floor has hardwood floors throughout, a newer kitchen with a large eat-in space, and an elegant living room. The basement has a finished family room.

Pros: A large bedroom above the two-car garage.

Cons: Lack of a first-floor family room.

Listing agent: Linda K. Ross, Quinn and Wilson; 215-885-7600.

$524,900

Jenkintown
730 Wyndale Rd.
Taxes: $10,812

A two-story Tudor with five bedrooms and 41/2 baths, this Abington Township house features a large eat-in kitchen adjacent to sizable dining room, a full pantry with oak cabinets, and a covered porch. A large center hall and a spacious living room contribute to an open feeling.

Pros: All the bedrooms are large; three have attached bathrooms.

Cons: The kitchen cabinets could use updating.

Listing agent: Carol Godfrey, Quinn and Wilson; 215-885-7600

Equal parts architectural study and functional living space, this two-bedroom, two-bath house is full of delightful quirks. Flagstone floors and a central fireplace give character to a tiered dwelling built into a hill in the manner of Frank Lloyd Wright. A planter and exposed bricks bring the outdoors inside.

Pros: The design, with its 1950s retro charm.

Cons: Old windows and bathrooms.

Listing agent: Donna Marinelli, Long and Foster; 215-801-4777.