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Howard Hanna Real Estate Services Blog

Tuesday, June 24, 2025   /   by Sharon St Clair

What season is best to sell a luxury home in Pennsylvania?

When is the Best Time to Sell a Luxury Home in Pennsylvania?


The luxury housing market in Pennsylvania calls for a blend of patience and strategy. With homes taking an average of 108 days to sell, understanding the best time to put a luxury property on the market can make a big difference. The luxury home market is not quite like the regular market, and timing your sale correctly can impact how quickly and profitably your home sells.

The Problem: Luxury Homes Can Take Longer to Sell


Selling luxury homes isn’t like selling other homes. They often stay on the market longer because:

Fewer Buyers: Fewer buyers are in this niche because not everyone can afford a high-end property.

Higher Expectations: Buyers at this level have specific needs and desires, making it take longer to find the right match.
Complex Processes: Selling a luxury home can involve more complex negotiations and specific inspections.


Time Frames and Expectations


In Pennsylvania ...

Monday, June 23, 2025   /   by Sharon St Clair

Could Pittsburgh's Housing Market Be Good for Sellers and Buyers at the Same Time?

Could Pittsburgh’s Housing Market Be Good for Sellers and Buyers at the Same Time?


In 2025, Pittsburgh’s housing market is buzzing with activity that interests buyers and sellers. With its rich history, friendly neighborhoods, and diverse living options, Pittsburgh provides unique opportunities in areas like Cranberry Township, Peters Township, Upper St Clair, and Mt. Lebanon. But what’s driving the market dynamics this year? Let’s have a look at what’s happening!

The Problem: What Are the Challenges in Pittsburgh’s Housing Market?

Pittsburgh faces challenges that affect both buyers and sellers in 2025.

The U.S. housing market has dealt with affordability and mortgage rates.
Sellers find it tricky as the median sales price has decreased by 1.3% year-over-year to $225,000, while median list prices went up by 10.7% to $249,000.

Here’s what stands out:

Diverging Prices: As list prices increase, buyer expectations might . ...

Monday, June 23, 2025   /   by Sharon St Clair

Understanding the hidden costs of having one agent work both sides of a home sale.

Understanding the Hidden Costs of Having One Agent Work Both Sides of a Home Sale in Pittsburgh’s Suburbs


Buying or selling a home is an exciting journey in the charming locales of Cranberry Township, Peters Township, Upper St. Clair, Mt. Lebanon, and Bethel Park. For first-time buyers, upsizers, downsizers, and investors, navigating the real estate market requires expertise, and having a dedicated agent can make all the difference. However, some might encounter a situation known as “double-dipping”—where one agent represents both the buyer and the seller in the same transaction. This is also called dual agency, and it brings hidden costs that can leave clients underserved.


The Problem: What Is Double-Dipping in Real Estate?


Double-dipping happens when an agent represents both sides of the sale, keeping the full commission, which typically ranges from 5-6% of the sale price. This can be tempting because the agent earns more on one deal. However. ...

Sunday, June 22, 2025   /   by Sharon St Clair

The agreement that protects you and makes house shopping smoother.

# The Importance of Evaluating Your Real Estate Agent Before Signing a Buyer’s Agency Agreement in Pittsburgh

Buying a home is a thrilling journey filled with decisions and paperwork. A critical piece of this puzzle is the Buyer’s Agency Agreement. This agreement is a legal contract that connects you with a real estate agent, making sure they work in your best interest. Understanding this agreement is key, especially for first-time homebuyers, upsizers, downsizers, and investors in areas around Pittsburgh such as Cranberry Township, Peters Township, Upper St. Clair, and more.

## Understanding the Buyer’s Agency Agreement

Knowing what this agreement means is crucial when buying a home in vibrant Pittsburgh areas like Mt. Lebanon, Bethel Park, and Venetia. The Buyer’s Agency Agreement is vital because it lays out the partnership between the buyer and the real estate agent. It clarifies the agent’s duties and how they get paid, making the entire proc. ...

Friday, June 20, 2025   /   by Sharon St Clair

Explore why talking to more agents could help you find the best match for selling your home.

# Choosing the Right Real Estate Agent in Pittsburgh: Why It Matters

When selling a home, one of the most important decisions a homeowner can make is choosing the right real estate agent. This decision can significantly impact how much money you walk away with at closing. In regions like Cranberry Township, Peters Township, Upper St Clair, Mt. Lebanon, and Bethel Park, selecting an agent who knows the local market is crucial. This choice is essential; having more conversations with agents could help you find the perfect match.

## The Problem: Finding the Right Agent Can Be Overwhelming

Choosing an agent can feel daunting. There are over 1.5 million Realtors in the U.S., over 9 thousand in the West Penn Multi-List, and figuring out which one will maximize your earnings can be tricky. A significant factor here is that top agents sell homes for more money. The top 2% of agents can sell homes for as much as 10% more than an average agent. For sellers, this could mean thousands of . ...
Howard Hanna Real Estate Services
Sharon St Clair
180 Fort Couch Road
Upper St. Clair, PA 15241
724-503-0014
412-833-3600

Information is provided exclusively for consumers’ personal use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumers may be interested in purchasing. Data is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed accurate by the MLS.
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