A new year has arrived, but it’s the same tight real estate market in Pittsburgh, with home listings that are snatched up quickly. Turns out, 2020 was a record-breaking year for many agents, says Tim Gyves with RE/MAX Select Realty.
“The market remains strong, in part because people who were wanting to buy or sell never let up,” Gyves says. “[Interest] rates remain exceptionally low and so, as we hope to turn the corner on the pandemic and economic uncertainty in early 2021, things still seem positive. Even though things typically slow down a bit in the early winter months, serious buyers and sellers are out there.”
Stay-at-home orders had some people looking for more space, indoors and out, says Gyves, a trend that may continue. Others are drawn to what makes neighborhoods special — parks, businesses, culture.
The lack of inventory, he says, “seems to be the perennial challenge in a place like Pittsburgh. I think if more potential sellers realized that — if priced well and in good condition — they’d likely have many people interested in their home, they might consider listing.”
Here’s a look at what you can buy right now in the region for about $225,000:
SOUTH
Neighborhood: 636 Highview Road, Baldwin Township
Asking price: $225,000
Style: 2-story
Description: This 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home, built in 1944, has been updated to modernize its expansive kitchen. There’s a first-floor family room and office space for someone who works from home or homeschooling. The lower level has a game room and leads to a two-tiered deck. There’s an integral 1-car garage, and the backyard abuts Armstrong Park and hiking trail.
Neighborhood: 102 Hillson Ave., Brentwood (see top photo above)
Asking price: $230,000
Style: 3-Story
Description: This 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home features hardwood floors, stained-glass windows, a gas-burning fireplace, a sunroom off the kitchen with views for the cook, and a master suite with his/her closets. The third floor could become an office. The basement has a custom wet bar with tap and booth seating. Ample parking.
NORTH
Neighborhood: 1216 N. Franklin St., Manchester
Asking price: $229,900
Style: 2-story
Description: This cozy home, with 3 bedrooms and 1 bath, is centrally located on the North Side, within walking distance to stadiums, museums, parks, restaurants and bars. It’s been totally renovated, inside and out, with new wiring, plumbing, roof, siding and HVAC system. There’s a second-floor laundry room, flat, fenced backyard, and good-sized front porch.
Neighborhood: 1106 Reedsdale St., Unit 207, North Shore
Asking price: $224,900
Style: Condominium
Description: If you’re looking for new construction, this 1-bedroom, 1-bath condo is located in a mid-rise building not far from Heinz Field and Rivers Casino. Its rooftop terrace includes a dog park, grilling area and fireplace; there’s also a fitness center and bike storage. The unit has a laundry room and the building has a security system. It comes with one parking space.
EAST
Neighborhood: 416 Cedarville St., Bloomfield
Asking price: $225,000
Style: 2-story
Description: In the heart of Bloomfield, this 3-bedroom, 2-bath home built in 1900 has potential for a 4th bedroom. It needs some TLC but offers large rooms, including a dining room and an eat-in kitchen with skylights, bay window and pantry. The full basement has a laundry area and storage space. There’s a fenced backyard and a 2-car, off-street parking area.
Neighborhood: 5903 Fifth Ave., Unit 301, Shadyside
Asking price: $230,000
Style: Condominium
Description: This third-floor condo in Woodland Manor comes with a 1-car garage space. Other features include a community room, storage locker, laundry facilities and gardens. Maintenance fees cover gas, water/sewage and parking but not electric. The living space includes 2 bedrooms and 2 baths. Want the furniture? It’s available. No pets allowed.
WEST
Neighborhood: 208 Maxwell St., Ingram
Asking price: $220,000
Style: Multi-level
Description: This 3-bedroom, 2-bath home feels larger inside than it looks from the outside. It has hardwood flooring and new paint but could use some updates to the kitchen and baths. It has a finished game room, 2-car garage and rear deck. A covered patio leads to a flat backyard. The location is ideal: close to a bus line, shopping, two parks, and a community pool.
Neighborhood: 51 Dean St., Carnegie
Asking price: $220,000
Style: 2-story
Description: Beautiful woodwork sets this 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home apart — it has unique architectural details throughout. Built in 1900, its rooms are large and were recently renovated, with hardwood and tile flooring and new paint. The kitchen has a convection oven and pantry. The fireplace is electric. The front porch and small, fenced backyard provide outdoor space.
GREATER DOWNTOWN
Neighborhood: 320 Fort Duquesne Blvd., Apt. 8M, Downtown
Asking price: $220,000
Style: Condominium
Description: This condo has an eat-in kitchen designed for someone who loves to cook, and open living space with iconic Downtown views. It’s 1-bedroom, 1-bath, with new windows that are energy efficient. Furnishings are included. The high-rise, next to Point State Park, has a social room, billiard room, 24-hour gym, security and on-site maintenance.
Looking for more real estate? Read What $350,000 will buy you in Pittsburgh right now.