Making choices about your living situation can be tough, and one big question for many families in Pittsburgh is whether to rent or buy a home. This decision can impact your life and finances in many ways. Staying informed about the current market conditions in areas like Cranberry Township, Peters Township, Upper St. Clair, Mt. Lebanon, and Cecil Township is key to making the right move. Here’s a closer look at whether buying a home in Pittsburgh is cheaper than renting.
The Current Housing Market in Pittsburgh

Limited Inventory and Rising Prices


In many neighborhoods around Pittsburgh, fewer homes are up for sale now than in past years. This trend means there are fewer options for homebuyers, and it often drives up prices. Recent data shows a 12% decrease in available homes in neighborhoods like Mt. Lebanon and Upper St. Clair. With fewer choices, more buyers compete for the same properties, increasing home prices.

Interest Rates Impacting Buyers


Home loan ...

Many homeowners in the Pittsburgh area, particularly in neighborhoods like Upper St. Clair, Peters Township, and Cranberry Township, are considering moving. However, some hesitate because they want to keep their current mortgage rate. While this might seem wise, clinging to a low rate can sometimes cost you more in the long run. Here’s why it might be time to reconsider.

Are You Missing Out on an Opportunity?

Homeowners love their low mortgage rates, as appealing as hot cocoa on a winter day. However, as the real estate market changes, holding on to that rate could keep you from reaching your goals.

A Changing Market

Interest rates are beginning to rise, which may drive some to stick to their current plans, thinking they’ll save money. The real estate market in places like Upper St. Clair and Mt. Lebanon is dynamic.

Lower interest rates can mean lower monthly payments, but that isn’t the whole story. If your current home doesn’t fit your nee ...

Buying or selling a home is a big step, and it’s essential to understand some key terms during the process. One such term that carries significant importance is “as-is.” In regions like Peters Township, Mt. Lebanon, Upper St. Clair, and Cranberry Township, understanding what an “as-is” sale entails can help buyers and sellers make better choices.
Understanding the “As-Is” Sale

When a home is sold “as-is," the seller will not make any repairs or improvements. The buyer takes the property in its current condition, including any issues. This can include everything from leaky roofs to outdated plumbing. In Southwestern Pennsylvania, where Sharon St. Clair serves the Pittsburgh area, “as-is” wasn’t so common, but it’s becoming more prevalent.

Why Does This Matter?
First-time Buyers: You might think an “as-is” home is a good deal, but knowing what you’re getting into is essential. Such dwellin ...

# Why Are So Many Home Deals Falling Through in Pittsburgh’s Housing Market?

The real estate market is always full of ups and downs, but what happens when more deals fall through than usual? Recently, in areas like Cranberry Township, Peters Township, Upper St. Clair, Mt. Lebanon, and Bethel Park, many people who thought they were ready to buy or sell are returning to the drawing board. Last month, a surprising 14% of home deals didn’t go through, marking the highest cancellation rate for April in the past five years. So, what’s happening, and why are so many deals not working out?

## The Problem: More Home Deals Are Falling Through

A real estate transaction going through can be frustrating for everyone involved. A recent report showed that 14% of home sales fell apart in April, making it challenging for buyers and sellers. For comparison, the cancellation rate was only around 3% to 4% earlier in the year, so this new number is a big jump.

### Why This Mat. ...

Buying or selling a home is a big deal, and having the right real estate agent makes all the difference. In areas like Cranberry Township, Peters Township, Upper St. Clair, Mt. Lebanon, and Bethel Park, a good agent can help you find the perfect fit, whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, an upsizer, a downsizer, or an investor. But what happens when your agent isn’t entirely focused on your best interests? Let’s examine why being underserved by your agent can be costly.

## The Problem: Double-Dipping and Conflicts of Interest

In real estate, “double-dipping” means one agent represents both the buyer and the seller. This allows the agent to keep the entire commission, but it’s controversial and can lead to a conflict of interest. Agents in these situations might not be as focused on what is best for you, the client, as they should be.

Here’s why this is a problem:

- Potential for Poor Representation: If an agent tries to keep both p. ...