By Chris Petry You know how it goes. One minute you're griping about the seemingly-endless rainfall and the next, you're punching your steering wheel trying desperately to merge into one lane bec...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/whats-trending-in-landscaping-spring-2024/
By Chris Petry Ah Springtime. It's a magical time, when the flowers bloom, the days grow both longer and warmer and the birds, bees, leaves and trees all awaken from their frozen slumber. Joining...
By Chris Petry Back in 1972, legendary pop singer Johnny Nash sang, "It's gonna be a bright, bright sunshiny day." Well today, we're also going to talk about something rather bright. Yes, the lig...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/lighting-for-your-home-and-business/
By Chris Petry One of my favorite YouTube shows is Good Mythical Morning, starring Rhett McLaughlin and Lincoln "Link" Neal. If you're not familiar with said comedy duo or the show, it's kind of ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/should-we-buy-sell-rent/
by Chris Petry In recent years, more and more people have embraced green technology to slow the creation of non-renewable waste, save on energy bills, and create a more eco-friendly and sustainab...
By Chris Petry Have you ever considered a career in real estate? Maybe you're a service-oriented person and really enjoy the opportunity to both work with and help people achieve their goals. Per...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/thinking-about-a-career-in-real-estate/
by Chris Petry You walk on it. Your pets walk on it. Your kids throw their toys and their clothes on it. While it's unlikely that floors will ever experience the same attention and reverence heap...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/what-type-of-flooring-is-right-for-my-home/
by Chris Petry I know what you're thinking: you mean there's more than one way to pronounce Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices The Preferred Realty? Well, no, not really. The name is pronounced Berk...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-do-you-say-berkshire/
by Chris Petry On behalf of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices The Preferred Realty and Stouffer Realty and The Pittsburgh Penguins, it was a great honor to recognize Jessica Webb as Hockey Mom of t...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/hockey-mom-of-the-year-jessica-webb/
by Chris Petry Confession: I do NOT have a green thumb. I did at one time. Or perhaps it was the kind of pure dumb luck only an 8-year-old could muster that allowed me to grow a 40lb pumpkin one ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/dig-this-gardening-tips-spring-2023/
by Chris Petry With April showers come house centipedes? Yuck! It's an inescapable fact: when the snow and ice melts and temperatures begin to reliably double the freezing point (32 degrees Fahre...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/the-pests-of-summer/
by Chris Petry Is now the time to buy a home? To put it simply, yes. One couldn't blame homebuyers for being hesitant based on last year's market, but that was LAST year's market. As of this writ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/is-now-the-time-to-buy-a-home/
by Chris Petry There's a lot to consider when buying a home. You've probably asked yourself a million questions already. What's in my budget? What will my annual tax bill look like? How far am I ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/what-type-of-home-is-right-for-me/
by Chris Petry Memorial Day is often recognized as the beginning of summer (though technically speaking June 21st claims that honor), and that means sweaters are tucked away until late fall, the ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/memorial-day/
by Chris Petry There are two types of people in this world. Numero uno: you're #SaltLife. You like nothing better than the feel of warm sand between your toes, lying on a beach towel with a dry m...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/10-hiking-trails-near-pittsburgh/
by Chris Petry Why should you buy a home? Well, it's hard to say without knowing a few details about your individual situation, but the below list will seek to cover some of the best reasons one ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/top-10-reasons-you-should-buy-a-home/
by Chris Petry As we head off to the beach in droves, let us not forget the formidable threat that lies just below the surface of the water: human beings. Gotcha. I bet you thought I was going to...
by Chris Petry If you took a peek at a new homeowner's search history, you'd likely find key terms like, "Home renovations on a budget," "How much does it cost on average to do A, B, C," or "Chea...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/home-renovations-on-a-budget/
by Chris Petry You don't have to be Batman to enjoy hanging out in a cave. After all, they include some of the richest, most geologically diverse, and downright fascinating natural rock formation...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/exploring-the-caves-of-western-pa/
by Chris Petry About half an hour into quirky auteur Wes Anderson's new comedy Asteroid City, there's a throwaway gag with Steve Carell's motel manager and a nomadic cowboy involving a row of odd...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/exchanging-quality-for-convenience/
by Chris Petry Earlier this week as I was reviewing a list of potential topics for the day's blog entry, my exuberant colleague bounced into the doorway of my office with an idea of her own. "Do ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/the-northern-lights/
by Chris Petry If you asked anyone in the 18-30 age range where they'd choose to live pre-2020, most would probably have chosen a large or medium sized city. It's easy to see why. The convenience...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/where-should-you-live/
by Chris Petry I admit it. I fell prey to the Barbenheimer hype train. If you're not active on one of the major social platforms (TikTok, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram) or pop culture/film industr...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/barbenheimer-why-do-things-go-viral/
by Chris Petry Color Theory is the science by which designers, interior decorators, and visual artists select specific colors with the intention of invoking a particular psychological response fr...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/to-grey-or-not-to-grey-what-color-should-you-paint/
by Chris Petry I spent most of the weekend tossing and turning, my inner monologue bouncing around innate topics like ping pong balls against my skull. What will be this week's blog topic? Needle...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/back-to-school/
by Chris Petry If there's one thing that gets my nerdy blood pumping, it's a good museum. Plus, there are museums specializing in virtually everything. Visit the Mutter Museum in Philadelphia and...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/must-see-museums-in-western-pa/
by Chris Petry We've all had the pleasure, or should I say displeasure, of visiting the grocery store several times in the last year. According to the United States Department of Agriculture, rea...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/save-money-right-now/
by Chris Petry Next Monday, many businesses will remain closed for the day in observance of Labor Day. Labor Day is a federally-recognized holiday, celebrating the hard work of the nation's citiz...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/take-a-break-its-labor-day/
by Chris Petry Go ahead and groan. It's okay. I get it. Reading is not for everyone. Indeed, some people will tell you it's a chore or worse, a punishment. My theory? They're just not reading the...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/the-pleasures-of-reading/
by Chris Petry Depending on the survey, anywhere between 29 and 42% of Americans rank Fall as their favorite season. I know what you're thinking; doesn't this fly in the face of conventional wisd...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/the-colors-of-autumn/
by Chris Petry It seems you can't go a day without hearing about interest rates. No matter where you look, there's an article or a news report discussing the effects of interest rates on consumer...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/just-what-are-interest-rates-anyway/
by Chris Petry Is there any singular item more indicative of the Fall season than a pumpkin? When it comes to Fall decor, from mid-September to late November, pumpkins reign supreme. Their stayin...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/the-pumpkin-invasion/
by Chris Petry You'd be forgiven for waking up on Monday and believing spring was around the corner, rather than the icy throes of winter. Temperatures have been unseasonably warm, peaking in the...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/dont-forget-to-winterize/
by Chris Petry Every year at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices The Preferred & Stouffer Realty, we grant scholarships to three lucky students who exemplify the traits of our Dream Innovate and Grow...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/scholarship-program-2022-2023/
by Chris Petry You know what they say about ghosts and real estate: location, location, location! Look, it's the middle of October and we've yet to post a blog with an exclusively Halloween-y top...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/real-life-haunted-real-estate/
by Chris Petry Go ahead, laugh it up, sun worshipers. You know and I know, these 70-degree days won't be able to hold out much longer. If there's one thing about cold weather, I think we can all ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/its-soup-season/
by Chris Petry While conventional wisdom might suggest that the holiday season is a slow time for real estate, there's also compelling counter arguments for why it isn't or, at the very least, wh...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/a-home-for-the-holidays/
by Chris Petry A couple of nights ago, after violently tossing and turning in a heat-induced delirium on an uncharacteristically sweltering November night, I shot up from my bed like a bolt of li...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/shall-we-talk-about-brick-streets/
by Chris Petry Why do we celebrate Thanksgiving? Is it the sentiment? Giving thanks? Is it to honor the perseverance of the human spirit? The kind that would see them traversing a vast frozen sea...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/thanksgiving-dinner-favorites/
by Chris Petry Well, it's here. Tomorrow is turkey day. Families across our great nation will gather in their masses to give their thanks and probably consume way more calories than necessary. Tw...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/black-friday-shopping/
by Chris Petry Sing it with me, "It's the most wonderful time of the yeeeeeeeeaaarrr!" Yes, the winter holiday season is upon us. It's time to grate the nutmeg, hang the mistletoe, decorate the t...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/the-best-holiday-films-to-watch-this-year/
by Chris Petry For today's topic, let's rewind the clock back to 1802. In Shropshire, England, on the Welsh border, inventor, engineer (and wrestler interestingly enough) Richard Trevithick, intr...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/winter-by-rail/
by Chris Petry There are many advantages to working for or working with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices The Preferred and Stouffer Realty to achieve your real estate goals. For one, we're the #1 ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/number-3-most-affordable-market-in-the-us/
by Chris Petry Why are people moving? Well, now there's a loaded question if I've ever heard one! There are countless reasons why someone might sell their home, move to another neighborhood, city...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/the-10-reasons-people-are-moving/
by Chris Petry It's official: springtime is finally here. Of course, we live in Western, PA and Eastern, OH so a rogue snowstorm could blow through any second now, but let's not talk about that. ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/get-more-out-of-life-go-to-the-drive-in/
by Chris Petry On April, 8th, this year, a total solar eclipse will pass over the North American continent. Now, what is a total solar eclipse and why should you care? A total solar eclipse is ac...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/total-eclipse-of-the-sun/
by Chris Petry Just because you spent last weekend in a t-shirt doesn't mean Spring flowering is on the horizon. Regardless of a certain charming rodent's opinion, Spring doesn't officially comme...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/start-your-spring-cleaning-now/
by Chris Petry Valentine's Day is right around the corner and if you're anything like me, you'll likely spend the day obsessing over the discovery of mold under a loose wet tile in your basement....
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/a-little-discussion-about-mold/
by Chris Petry Today, we're going to talk about some of the biggest myths you might have heard over the last several years. No, I'm not referring to myths like the Earth being flat or Elvis Presl...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/some-of-the-most-common-real-estate-myths/
by Chris Petry Doors. We all have them. We pass through dozens of them, day in and day out. You exit your bedroom door in the morning to shower or make breakfast, often times after you've opened ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/doors-doors-and-more-doors/
Introduction by Chris Petry & Featured Article by Nancy Mitchell Happy New Year! Is it still permissible to say that? I mean, we're only three days in, right? What's the cutoff? I suppose it's be...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/home-safety-tips/
By Chris Petry So, you've decided to buy a home. Congrats! Or, no, wait. You're selling? Ah, yes. Time to upgrade! Or downsize. Regardless of your real estate ambitions, having a well-informed RE...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/why-is-using-a-realtor-a-great-idea/
by Chris Petry Well, that's a wrap on 2023! Oh, and what a year it was! Just in case you forgot, here are some of the major news stories that broke over the last twelve months: The Israeli/Hamas ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/2023-a-year-in-review/
by Chris Petry Christmas is only five days away. At this point, you've probably finished your shopping and if you haven't, you're in full bore panic mode, running around like a chipmunk in a pean...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/yuletide-dinner-favorites/
by Chris Petry The first thing you should know as a prospective home seller is, it's still a great market! That's right, for over 2 years now, sellers have been uniquely positioned to get the bes...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/what-do-i-need-to-know-as-a-home-seller/
by Chris Petry It's okay, admit it. When you read the headline, you immediately thought, "So we have an excuse to gorge ourselves on red meat, potatoes, and enough Guinness to drown a water buffa...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/why-do-we-celebrate-saint-patricks-day/
It's 2023. We (the world) are hopelessly attached to our smartphones, tablets, and virtual assistant technology. The thought of leaving home without our iPhone is almost as terrifying as waking u...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/the-value-of-disconnecting/
Daylight savings and the first day of spring are just days away! Finally, we can look forward to bright blooms, chirping birds and um, you know, spring home maintenance. It may not smell as sweet...
All interior design trends change, often in the opposite direction. After years of cool, grey minimalism, homeowners are turning toward the past for cozier inspirations. Greens and Other Warm Neu...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/home-decorating-trends-that-are-making-a-comeback/
We are pleased to announce that Jessica Webb from Greensburg is the winner of the February Hockey Mom award for the 2022-2023 Pittsburgh Penguins hockey season! Jessica is a force to be reckoned ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/february-hockey-mom-of-the-month-jessica-webb/
A recent survey of homebuyers who purchased a home in 2021 and 2022 found that 72% had buyer's remorse. Thirty-one percent paid over asking price, a median of $65,000; 36% made offers without see...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-to-avoid-homebuyers-remorse/
Sweaty palms weak knees butterflies in your stomach all are sure signs of attraction, but could they mean that you've found "The One?" Cupid has many ways of revealing himself, but what about whe...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/struck-by-cupid-14-signs-that-you-found-the-one/
Pittsburgh winters mean gray days and cold temperatures. The combination of these two things might have your houseplants longing for summer and warmer weather. Now that we are in the heart of win...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-to-help-your-house-plants-survive-the-winter/
We are pleased to announce Michelle Opferman from Mt. Lebanon as the winner of the January Hockey Mom award for the 2022-2023 Pittsburgh Penguin hockey season! Michelle Opferman is a dedicated wi...
1. Glengarry Glen Ross (1992, Starring Al Pacino, Jack Lemmon, Alec Baldwin)- The Gold standard of real estate movies, Glengarry Glenn Ross was adapted from the Pulitzer Prize-winning stage play ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/twelve-of-the-best-real-estate-movies/
As the colder winter weather is approaching, homebuyers across the nation have been bracing for the accompanying energy bill. Whether your home is heated using electricity, gas, or oil, heating i...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/ways-to-lower-heating-costs-this-winter/
What will the new year bring for homebuyers, homeowners and home sellers? Lower or higher home prices? Higher or lower mortgage interest rates? Or a continuation of the overheated pandemic-inspir...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/good-to-know-housing-outlook-2023/
If one of your New Year's Resolutions is to get a hold of your finances, now is a good time to check in and make sure you are on the right track to tackle your budget. Here are five tips on how t...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/2023-new-years-resolutions-budgeting-your-money/
Congratulations to our December Hockey Mom Of The Month, Kelly Bradley from Cheswick, Pennsylvania. Kelly Bradley is truly an inspiration for all hockey moms. Despite being a single mother and ha...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/december-hockey-mom-of-the-month-kelly-bradley/
Do you have a hard-to-buy-for cousin or have no clue what to get your significant other for Christmas this year? We've got you covered! With the holidays right around the corner, our 2022 gift gu...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/the-preferred-realty-holiday-2022-gift-guide/
Now that Thanksgiving is over, it's time to shift mental gears to the impending holiday shopping season. With so many deals before the holidays arrive, it is incredibly easy to go spend-crazy. Bu...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/tips-to-avoid-overspending-this-holiday-season/
'Tis the season to be winterizing your home. Luckily, Mother Nature has been pretty gentle on most of us so far this holiday season. So, if you haven't prepped your home for that perpetual snowfa...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-to-prepare-your-home-for-winter-weather/
Congratulations to Alissa Smith-Sumner from New Castle, our first Hockey Mom winner for the 2022-2023 Pittsburgh Penguins hockey season! Alissa not only dedicates her time and talents to the loca...
Buying your first home is a very exciting time, but many first-time homebuyers are unaware of the added expenses come closing time. If you are planning on purchasing your first home soon, make su...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/unexpected-expenses-after-buying-your-first-home/
It's getting close to the season for hanging holiday lights, stringing garland, and filling your home with your favorite seasonal decorations. Before you go crazy decking your home's exterior wit...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-to-prepare-your-yard-for-cold-weather/
When a homebuyer makes a purchase offer, and the seller accepts, the home is considered under contract as long as certain "contingencies" are met that protect the buyer. These contingencies allow...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/what-does-contingent-mean-in-real-estate/
You may not want to hear this, but the cold weather is coming quicker than you think! Before the cold temperatures hit, it is important to check if your home needs new windows. If it's been a whi...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/is-now-the-time-to-replace-your-windows/
In the spirit of the Halloween holiday, we're taking a look into the spooky, eerie things about a home that will simply scare buyers away. No, we're not talking about properties that may be rumor...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/spine-chilling-sights-that-can-scare-buyers-away/
From crisp, cooler mornings and evenings to the aromas of hot apple cider and pumpkin-spiced goodies all around, fall is here! With this bright and beautiful season comes an awesome time for seri...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/perks-to-buying-a-home-in-the-fall/
It pretty much goes without saying that fall is a great time to sell a home. But, did you know that this crisp, cool season also offers an excellent opportunity for sellers to capitalize on some ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/home-staging-tips-fall-edition/
A new season brings a new career path Are you looking for a career change or just starting out your career? If so, have you ever considered becoming a real estate professional? Being a real estat...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/fall-in-love-with-your-new-real-estate-career/
Summer weather is coming to an end, which means fall is approaching! Now is the perfect time to tidy up your home before the cold weather hits. Here's a list of projects to take on before fall co...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/home-projects-to-tackle-before-fall/
Smart devices for your home are hot on the market right now and they are doing more than just playing your favorite song! You can now turn off your lights, vacuum the floors and even lock your fr...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/smart-home-products-to-add-to-your-wishlist/
Moving into a new home is a process that can be described as tedious and anxiety-ridden, but did you know that your dog indeed feels the exact same way about it? Moving into a new house with a pe...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/seven-ways-to-help-your-dog-adjust-to-a-new-home/
Love it or hate it, but doing laundry is unavoidable. While there are many tips and tricks to make the weekly chore less tedious, we may be overlooking one of the things that influences our laund...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/clear-the-clutter-laundry-room-organization-hacks/
With Labor Day weekend approaching fast, you may be wondering what you and your family can do to celebrate some extra time off. If you're planning on spending the long weekend with your family, w...
Can you believe it is already that time of year again? Back to school! While your children may be overly excited or even a bit worried about new teachers, new subjects and meeting their friends, ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/back-to-school-tips-for-parents/
It's that time of year when many homeowners around the nation find themselves facing a new chapter in their lives, we like to call it the empty nest. Though various circumstances can lead to an e...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/things-to-consider-as-an-empty-nester/
Virtual interior designer/home stager Stuccco.com compiled a wish list from numerous online sources that experts say homebuyers want in 2022. Many popular features aren't what home sellers may th...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/surprising-features-homebuyers-want-in-2022/
Summer may be the time for switching it up when it comes to your home, but that doesn't have to mean buying a new home and starting all over. In fact, if you're a long-time homeowner whose home j...
Many people who want to buy a home put it off until they can completely pay off their student loan debt. And while that is a responsible choice, it is not a necessity. As long as you do a thoroug...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-to-buy-a-home-when-you-have-student-loan-debt/
A fully-equipped outdoor kitchen isn't just great for backyard barbecues, It's also convenient for anyone who likes to spend time outside! If you're interested in making your own grilling station...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/ways-to-revamp-your-outdoor-cooking-space/
In April 2021, Bitcoin hit an all-time high in the price of its coins, virtual trader Coinbase went public with a valuation of $86 billion, and Venmo, owned by PayPal, announced it's adding suppo...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/buying-a-home-with-bitcoin/
Nothing says summer like a little 4th of July fun with family, friends and, of course, fireworks! If you're hosting this year's party, but your spark to get prepared hasn't yet been ignited, ther...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-to-host-the-ultimate-fourth-of-july-party/
When you think about summer, I'm sure you think about playing outdoor sports, hosting barbecues, working in the garden and of course, cooling off in a pool. Swimming is a great way to relax on a ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/pool-safety-tips-all-parents-should-know/
Father's Day is this Sunday, June 19th, and if you haven't purchased a special gift for your dad just yet, don't worry we have you covered! Check out our list of Father's Day gift ideas. You'll b...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/fathers-day-gift-guide-2022/
Feeling unsettled in your apartment and want to give it a refresh? Get creative with your space with some landlord-friendly apartment renovations. Before you dive into your next project, read you...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/rent-friendly-renovations/
Now that summer is quickly approaching, it's the perfect time to refresh and brighten your home. It's time to put away the faux fur throws and plaid wool pillows and bring in some vibrant colors ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/ways-to-brighten-up-your-home-this-summer/
There's no doubt that pets add another layer of stress and complication to a move, but of course we wouldn't leave them behind for the world. And moving with an animal can be done safely! Read on...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/7-mistakes-to-avoid-while-moving-with-a-pet/
Each home listing has a status that's updated by information that the listing agent feeds into the multiple listing service (MLS). A home listed contingent or pending are under contract, but ther...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/whats-the-difference-pending-or-contingent/
Did you know, open houses are a great way to show off your home and attract prospective buyers? Preparing the house and property for visitors takes a little time, but welcoming potential buyers w...
Mark your calendars! Mother's Day is this Sunday, May 9th -- and after this crazy year, this Mother's Day is a great time to shower your mother in some much-deserved attention. Whether you see he...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/2022-mothers-day-gift-guide/
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices The Preferred Realty is proud to announce the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Pawfect Home Sweepstakes, where individuals can enter for a chance to win a custom-bu...
Did you know Earth Day is right around the corner? There are plenty of things you can do to celebrate mother earth every day, but we suggest starting in your home! Don't worry, we aren't suggesti...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/celebrate-earth-day-the-right-way-go-green-at-home/
Did you know that April is National Lawn and Garden Month? Well now that you do, it's time to celebrate! Many people use this as a month to focus on their own garden or lawn and others use it as ...
Did the winter blues get you down last season? If so, maybe it's time for a career refresh! Since prime real estate season is heating up right along with the weather, now may be the perfect time ...
Spring cleaning might seem like a daunting task, but with a little love, your home will be looking brand new! Spring cleaning is essential to a happy and healthy home. From the bedrooms to bathro...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/spruce-up-your-home-with-these-spring-cleaning-tips/
Congratulations to our Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices The Preferred Realty's March Hockey Mom Of The Month winner, Mary LeBlanc from Latrobe, PA. Mary was nominated by her fellow hockey mom's fo...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/march-2022-hockey-mom-mary-leblanc/
OK, homeowners, tax season is here and you've got just over a month to take advantage of this year's tax breaks. If you're feeling a little in the dark about what you may qualify for and you're r...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/tax-guide-for-homeowners/
Daylight savings and the first day of spring are just days away! Finally, we can look forward to bright blooms, chirping birds and um, you know, spring home maintenance. It may not smell as sweet...
Spring hasn't sprung just yet, but if you are looking to buy a house this spring it's better to be prepared! The spring real estate market can be intimidating for any buyer especially if you are ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/spring-market-tips-for-first-time-homebuyers/
Congratulations to our Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices The Preferred Realty's February Hockey Mom, Michelle Hinds from Oakdale, PA. Michelle currently volunteers her time to assist both the Chart...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/february-2022-hockey-mom-michelle-hinds/
If you are currently in the market for a new home, you may be feeling a little hopeless with the lack of options. If you find yourself having a hard time finding your dream home, one solution is ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/tips-and-tricks-on-buying-a-fixer-upper/
It's a common belief that the spring and summer seasons are the best to purchase a home because the real estate market tends to slow down in the winter months. While statistically this is true, p...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/tips-and-tricks-for-winter-homebuyers/
It's not quite time for spring cleaning yet, BUT that doesn't mean you can't start organizing your home! Don't know where to start? Try your closet space! Even the largest homes with the most spa...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/closet-organization-tips-and-tricks/
2022 is the year of the Millennial - at least when it comes to home buying. With the oldest of them turning 40, this is a generation ready to put down roots. During the 2021 real estate boom, two...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/five-home-features-that-millennials-love/
Congratulations to our Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices The Preferred Realty's January Hockey Mom Of The Month winner, Jennifer Hewitt from the Johnstown Warriors hockey team. For Jennifer and her...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/january-2022-hockey-mom-jennifer-hewitt/
Does cabin fever have you itching to get out of the house this winter? Pittsburgh has some of the best spots for a weekend getaway. From skiing to wine tasting, here are the best winter day trips...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/winter-weekend-getaways-near-pittsburgh/
Is 2022 finally the year you push your credit score to Very Good? With the New Year finally here, it's the perfect time to set goals and improve your credit score. With a few simple changes to yo...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/2022-resolutions-improve-your-credit/
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices The Preferred Realty held two complimentary 45-minute virtual Scholarship Workshop Webinars for high school students and their parents in early December. The webin...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/college-scholarship-workshop-webinar-recap/
The holidays are here and it's time to focus on this year's hosting responsibilities. If you are welcoming friends and family into your home this season, save yourself some stress and start to pr...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-to-prepare-your-home-for-holiday-guests/
Congratulations to our Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices The Preferred Realty's December Hockey Mom Of The Month winner, Billi Marie Meli from Oakmont. Billi Marie is mom to 10-year-old Carter and ...
It's the most wonderful time of the year, especially in Pittsburgh. The city and its surrounding areas are filled with holiday activities for all ages to participate in! Ice Skating At PPG Place ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/five-of-the-best-holiday-activities-in-pittsburgh/
Congratulations to Christine Greene from Johnstown, our first Hockey Mom winner this year! Christine is mom to 13-year-old Ethan and 18-year-old Faith and has been married to her husband Ryan for...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/congratulations-to-our-november-2021-hockey-mom/
Are you or someone you know planning on attending college in the fall? If so, now is the time to be applying for scholarships! Finding scholarships to apply for can be overwhelming, but we will m...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/bhhs-dream-innovate-grow-2021-2022-scholarship/
Believe it or not, but the holiday season is coming up fast! If you want to get a head of the game, consider prepping your home for the holidays in early November to limit the amount of stress la...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-to-set-up-a-guest-bedroom/
There are lots of cool fairs, festivals and events going on throughout the Pittsburgh region during fall that you won't want to miss! Check out our list of upcoming fall events the whole family w...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/upcoming-fall-festivities-near-the-burgh/
Spicing up your home has never been easier! Now that fall has officially arrived, it is time to embrace the season and pull out your favorite autumn-inspired decor. The season's official start is...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/spice-up-your-home-with-trendy-fall-decor-/
Pittsburgh and its surrounding areas have more than its fair share of great hiking spots. September is the perfect time to get outside and enjoy the last of the beautiful weather! Planning your n...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/best-hiking-trails-in-the-pittsburgh-area-/
Now that Labor Day has come and gone, college classes around the country are back in session. While that means many things to many people, for landlords who lease their properties to college stud...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/tips-for-landlords-renting-to-college-students/
When you're trying to sell your home, you want prospective buyers to explore a bit during showings, right? Buyers often open closets, cabinets, and other nooks and crannies when they're touring a...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/tips-to-protect-your-home-when-its-on-the-market/
Home staging has become something of a minor craze for real estate professionals in the past few years, and the actual science behind how best to set up a home for an open house seems to be chang...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/budget-friendly-home-staging/
Looking to plan some family fun activities to do in Pittsburgh? Look no further. Whether you are a thrill seeker, animal lover, or nature enthusiast, Pittsburgh offers various types of attraction...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/family-fun-in-the-pittsburgh-area/
Do you have a vacation home, acquired a property or have an extra room in your home you want to make some extra money on? You might consider listing your property on a hotel booking site such as ...
Summertime and the living is easy! Check out some of these can't miss events coming up in the Pittsburgh Area. Picklesburgh (August 20-22) Save the dates, Picklesburgh is back! Picklesburgh has b...
When you think about Summer, you think about the fun things we associate with warm weather: playing outdoor sports, barbeques, working in the garden and of course cooling off in a pool. Swimming ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/swimming-pool-safety/
Homeownership is an exciting role, but it requires a bit of responsibility. From changing light bulbs to hanging up home decor, homeowners are responsible for their own routine home maintenance a...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/new-homeowner-must-haves/
Are you ready to red, white and lose? Gather your friends and family for your most competitive Fourth of July backyard party yet. We curated a list of the best backyard games that will be sure to...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/yard-games-for-your-fourth-of-july-party/
With storm season upon us, it is important that you learn how to protect yourself, your family and your home from the danger of storms. Keep reading for more information and safety tips. Keep Up ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/keeping-you-safe-storm-safety-tips/
Are you having a hard time finding a home that fits your budget and has all the amenities you want? Well, it may be a good idea to look into fixer uppers. Completely renovating a home top to bott...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/tips-and-tricks-for-your-first-fixer-upper/
Father's Day is this Sunday, June 20th, and if you haven't purchased a special gift for your dad just yet, don't worry we have you covered! Check out our list of Father's Day Gift Ideas. You'll b...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/fathers-day-gift-guide-2021/
It's that time of the year again! We're kicking off the fifth year of our Hockey Mom of the Year contest! From early morning rides to the rink, countless hours watching practices and games, or ch...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/hockey-mom-of-the-year-contest-is-back/
Summer means patio season! Pittsburgh rooftop bars and outdoor patios are the key to a perfect summer dining experience. Check out some of our favorite local spots! Biergarten At Hotel Monaco The...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/dinner-with-a-view-outdoor-dining-in-pittsburgh-/
Have you been putting off packing up your home for your upcoming move? Don't know where to start? We know moving can be stressful and overwhelming, but with the right planning and preparation, it...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/packing-tips-for-your-upcoming-move/
Now that Summer is fast approaching, it's the perfect excuse to refresh and brighten your home. It's time to put away the faux fur throws and plaid wool pillows and bring in some vibrant colors a...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/5-ways-to-freshen-up-your-home-this-summer/
Long holiday weekends mean more time to spend soaking up the sun and celebrating with friends and family. As the unofficial start of the summer season and a day to honor those who died while serv...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/creative-memorial-day-party-ideas/
In 2020, the United States saw an unprecedented shift in the housing market. This ripple effect has continued to affect the market in 2021, and a large crowd of people are interested in buying a ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/spring-2021-housing-trends-4-tips-for-buyers/
Mark your calendars: Mother's Day is Sunday, May 9th -- and after an especially hard year, this Mother's Day is a great time to shower your mother in some much-deserved attention. Whether you see...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/mothers-day-gift-guide-2021/
Congratulations to the second April Hockey Mom winner, Lora Clewes, from New Brighton Township. Lora, mom to Benson (8 years old) and Evelyn (2 years old), is the Vice President of the Beaver Cou...
Congratulations to Kylie Bryner, our first Hockey Mom winner of 2021! Kylie, mom to 7-year-old Weston and 4-year-old Wyatt, is a registered nurse who is no stranger to helping others. This includ...
Congratulations to our March Hockey Mom winner, Julie Sharbaugh, from Indiana PA! Julie is a mom to five kids (Kendra 19, Matt 17, JJ 12, Benny 11, Emmett 8) with the youngest three playing hocke...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/congratulations-to-the-march-2021-hockey-mom-winner/
Now that the weather is changing, you may be looking to get out of your house and explore new places. Although some travel bans are still in place due to Covid-19, you can still enjoy a nice week...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/day-trips-from-pittsburgh/
Congratulations to our first April Hockey Mom winner, Melanie Berry, from Baldwin! A mom of three (Teegan, Kaden, and Kylee), Melanie is the Business Manager for her son Teegan's Bantam team with...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/congratulations-to-our-april-hockey-mom-winner/
Buying or selling a home is an exciting experience for anyone, but without the right agent, it can be a stressful and overwhelming process. Obviously you want to find a real estate agent with loc...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/choosing-the-right-real-estate-agent-for-you-/
Did you know that April is National Lawn and Garden Month? Well now that you do, it's time to celebrate! Many people use this as a month to focus on their own garden or lawn and others use it as ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/6-ways-to-celebrate-national-lawn-garden-month/
If you're preparing for a move, you've likely got a ton on your mind selling your home, packing your belongings, saying goodbyes and getting ready to start all over somewhere new. Now, throw kids...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-to-prepare-your-kids-for-a-move/
Spring cleaning might seem like a daunting task, but with a little love, your home will be looking brand new and feeling refreshed. Spring cleaning is essential to a happy and healthy home. From ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/must-do-spring-cleaning-tasks/
Now that Spring is quickly approaching, you might be considering taking the leap from renting to buying your first home! This is a very exciting step to take, but it also comes with a lot of ques...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/questions-for-first-time-home-buyers/
It's easy to get sick of your home decor, especially if you have been staying home a lot. With the warmer weather approaching, take some time to give your home a little refresh. There's no need t...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/four-cost-effective-tips-to-refresh-your-space/
Staging a home for sale is not a new concept, but it is a practice that could help your home sell a lot faster. In today's market, buyers are looking for a home they can envision themselves in an...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/the-benefits-of-home-staging/
Moving can be a little stressful, especially when it comes to the packing part. Downsizing your belongings and working to declutter before the move will make things go a lot smoother. With a few ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-to-downsize-belongings-before-a-move/
If one of your New Year's Resolutions was to get a hold of your finances, now is a good time to check-in and make sure you are on the right track to tackle your budget. Here are five tips on how ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-to-tackle-your-budget-goals-in-the-new-year/
Deciding to purchase a home is a very exciting step to take! Now that you have gone through the necessary final steps, it's still important to keep your finances in shape during contingency. Any ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/what-you-shouldnt-do-right-before-you-buy-a-home/
When you are preparing to sell your home, you want to make sure it's in tip-top shape before it hits the market! Now that the holidays have settled down, you might have a little extra time to mak...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/quick-repairs-to-make-before-selling-your-home/
Have you been dreaming of owning your own home or even upgrading the one you currently have? 2021 could be the year that you are finally able to purchase a new home! With a few simple steps and a...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/new-year-new-home-how-to-save-for-a-home-this-year/
2020 was an interesting year, to say the least. What started out as the roaring '20s, quickly turned into a year we would never forget. Despite challenges and changes, as a company, we were still...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/the-preferred-realtys-2020-year-in-review/
Congratulations to our Hockey Mom of the Year for the 2019-2020 season, Elizabeth Turcovsky of Mentor Youth Hockey Association! Elizabeth was one of our five monthly winners (November) who was se...
2020 has been a long year so why wait until January 1st to start your New Year's Resolutions! If your goals this year are to get organized, why not start writing things down now? Or if you want t...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-to-start-early-on-your-new-years-resolutions/
It's that time of year where both students and parents begin to think about starting to apply for scholarships! Have you considered the Dream, Innovate, Grow Scholarship? Each year, Berkshire Hat...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/need-a-scholarship-heres-how-to-enter/
As you're completing your holiday shopping this month, there are some obvious gift recipients on your list. But this year, we're suggesting that you add your home to your "nice" list when it come...
Being home for the holidays means enjoying quality time with friends and family, indulging in good food and drinks, and making the most of your time together! This holiday season might look a lit...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/holiday-recipe-ideas-your-guests-will-love/
Do you have a hard to buy for your niece or have no clue what to get your significant other for Christmas this year? We've got you covered! With the biggest shopping holiday of the year right aro...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/our-2020-holiday-gift-guide/
From going to school or work to grocery shopping and visiting the doctor, 2020 has had a whirlwind of changes. With the holiday season fast approaching, it's important to recognize that some of o...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-to-keep-the-holiday-spirit-alive-during-covid/
While it can be a stressful experience, moving to a new place is certainly worth celebrating. If you're hunting for the perfect housewarming gift for a special person in your life, you might be t...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/housewarming-gifts-for-a-new-homeowner/
Renting is a great option for a lot of people just starting out or for those who like maintenance-free living. But did you know that you could be saving money monthly by buying instead of renting...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/steps-renters-should-take-before-buying-a-home/
Are you looking for a career change or just starting out your career? If so, have you ever considered becoming a real estate professional? Being a real estate agent can be an extremely rewarding ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/why-now-is-the-right-time-to-become-a-realtor/
Fall is in the air and that means gorgeous yellow and orange foliage, everyone's favorite pumpkin coffees, and cozy oversized sweaters. But fall also means tons of fun weekend activities that you...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/ten-ways-to-enjoy-the-fall-weekend-weather/
Searching for a new home is difficult. Potential buyers often have to balance their wants with their needs and try to prioritize factors like location, price, and size. What many house hunters do...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/16-real-estate-terms-you-should-know-before-you-buy/
Buying real estate is exciting enough on its own, but it gets even more exciting when you check out the array of options that are waiting for you to move in. A lot of people consider single-famil...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/why-a-townhouse-might-be-the-right-fit-for-you/
Yesterday officially marked the change of season and fall's arrival means that homeowners have a few extra maintenance issues to complete before colder weather sets in! Though it may seem like a ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-to-prepare-your-home-for-fall-weather/
Now that it is fall and October is fast approaching, the leaves are falling and the weather is getting cooler it is time to partake in Pittsburgh's favorite fall activities. Fall is a particularl...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/socially-distant-fall-activities-in-pittsburgh/
For most people, a home will be the biggest purchase that you will make in your lifetime and will require obtaining a mortgage. Shopping around for a mortgage will help you find the best possible...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-to-easily-shop-for-a-mortgage/
Moving into a new home requires a lot of planning and important decisions. Sometimes these steps can be overlooked, causing you to lose a lot of time and money in the relocation process. Luckily ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/moving-soon-avoid-these-five-mistakes/
Each year, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices The Preferred Realty hosts a scholarship program, open to all highschoolers in the area. The Dream, Innovate, Grow scholarship is inspired by the key be...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/dream-innovate-grow-scholarship-winners/
Now that we are approaching the end of August, it's time to start thinking about the changing of seasons and how you can tidy up your home before the fall. It's always a good idea to do a little ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/home-projects-to-tackle-before-the-fall/
Being able to make improvements and customize your space is one of the best parts of being a homeowner. That being said, most new homeowners are eager to jump into projects before they even live ...
The prospect of buying a new home can be fun and exciting. It can also be a bit nerve-wracking, given that you want to get it just right. How do you know that the house you fall in love with is t...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/four-home-buying-tips-for-a-growing-family/
The home buying process can be slightly stressful and intimidating, especially if this is your first time around the block. Even if you are a seasoned moving professional, it is still nice to hav...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/understanding-the-home-buying-process/
Home inspections are an important part of your home selling process, but it can also be a source of anxiety for many sellers. If this is your first move, don't stress! We're here to help answer a...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/what-to-know-about-a-home-inspection/
The past couple of weeks have been unseasonably warm, and while we all love the sun, your grass might be begging for some heavy thunderstorms. Check out the best tips to help you keep your grass ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-to-care-for-your-lawn-during-the-summer/
Whether you have lived in Pittsburgh your whole life or are new to the Steel City, there are so many activities for you to fill your weekends with. Even though the city in the green phase, there ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/the-best-weekend-activities-in-pittsburgh/
A fully-equipped outdoor kitchen isn't just great for backyard barbecues, It's also convenient for anyone who likes to spend time outside! If you're interested in making your own grilling station...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-to-revamp-your-outdoor-cooking-space/
The sale and purchase of a home is a major milestone in your life, which is why you should be able to feel 100 percent confident in that decision. Whether you are looking for your very first home...
Now that some of us are settling back into the office and getting back into a routine, it's a good time to talk about staying productive at work! Since being out of the office for the past few mo...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-to-boost-productivity-at-work/
Now that it is officially summer, the warm weather has us all wanting to spend more time outside, and when you do, you'll want your backyard in tip-top shape. We have put together some of the bes...
Sticking to a budget and keeping track of your finances is key to money management. Keeping track of all your finances in one place will make your life a lot easier. Luckily, there are so many ap...
It's hard enough making any big move, but add in actual living things like pets and plants and the stress of moving gets even tougher to handle. You might already be thinking about how to keep pe...
If you are a gardener, you probably take a lot of pride in your perfectly manicured lawn and gardens and surely don't want to see them wilt, discolor, and even die throughout the summer. That's w...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-to-prolong-the-life-of-your-plants-this-summer/
June 21st is right around the corner, which means it's time to start thinking about what to get Dad for Father's Day! To help you out we have come up with some of the best gifts for dads in 2020....
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/the-best-fathers-day-gift-ideas/
Everyone wants an upgraded kitchen, but that can cost you a lot of time and money if you are planning to do a complete remodel. If you don't have the budget or would like to take small steps, you...
The first Saturday in June is National Trails Day, which paired with the nice weather this weekend should be the perfect excuse for you to get out of the house, celebrate nature and enjoy some ti...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-to-celebrate-national-trails-day/
Growing a vegetable garden is a great way to bring fresh, nutritious veggies to your table. Knowing where your food comes from is just one benefit of home vegetable gardening. You'll also save mo...
Summer has arrived and you know what that means Pittsburghers are starting to get out in full effect, enjoying all the outdoor spaces and history our great city has to offer! If you're relocating...
The pools might not be opening this year, but that doesn't mean you cannot spend your Memorial Day Weekend ringing in the summer and having a ton of fun! From having a bonfire with your family an...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/memorial-day-gathering-ideas/
Are you getting burnt out from eating the same rotation of meals and take out? Thinking of new and creative dinner ideas every night can be challenging, especially with a house full of people. Th...
Even though Real Estate in our area is officially in the Yellow Zone today, we are still taking extra precautions to make sure that our sellers, buyers, and our real estate agents are safe when r...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/what-is-a-live-virtual-open-house/
Did you know that purchasing a home could actually help you build your wealth? If you are currently renting a property, you might want to look into purchasing a home within your budget when your ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/what-is-home-equity/
By Bryce Thompson Even if you're stuck at home, you don't have to limit yourself to staying indoors. Today's homeowners are expanding their living and entertaining spaces into their backyards. Wh...
During this time, our weekends are seeming to run into the weekdays without much excitement. If you are like us, looking for activities to do is becoming a bit of a challenge. No worries, now tha...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/outdoor-activities-to-fill-your-weekend/
Looking for something to do this weekend? How about finally tackling one of those home projects you have been putting off? Using this time to cross some of those items off your list will make for...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/home-projects-you-can-tackle-in-a-weekend/
Your typical Mother's Day festivities might look a little different this year, but that doesn't mean you can't celebrate your wife, mother, or any influential woman in your life! From the simples...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/the-best-mothers-day-gift-ideas/
Stepping back into the garden after a long, harsh winter can be overwhelming, but it is also a time of relief. Even with a little spring chill still in the air, there are plenty of tasks to start...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/gardening-tips-for-the-spring-season/
There's no doubt about it -- trying to juggle working from home with children is challenging. Whether you're on a Zoom call, focusing on writing, or trying to balance a budget, having kids around...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-to-keep-your-kids-busy-at-home/
As social distancing guidelines continue and normal routines remain disrupted, cabin fever is starting to set in for many of us. With spring here and temperatures rising, the need to get outside ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-to-safely-get-fresh-air/
News of the COVID-19 is everywhere, and many people are doing their best to try to stay healthy and help slow the virus's spread. Now that social distancing, working remotely and self-quarantinin...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-to-stay-busy-in-a-small-space/
Now that you have some extra time on your hands, it's a great idea to finally tackle that checklist of home repairs you have been putting off. If you are planning on listing your home soon, it is...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/easy-home-repairs-to-make-before-listing/
As business closures continue due to COVID-19 many real estate agents have been ordered to work from home. What does that mean for you as a buyer or seller in this market? As coronavirus related ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-to-buy-a-home-in-a-virtual-market/
Small businesses across America are already feeling the financial crunch from coronavirus restrictions that have millions of people staying at home and avoiding unnecessary shopping trips. Even t...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-to-support-local-businesses-during-closures/
If you are running out of meal plans for your family or have never been much of a cook, we have you covered! Many local restaurants are providing take out and delivery services in response to Pen...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/local-restaurants-in-pittsburgh-open-for-take-out/
Whether you have been working from home your whole career or are just starting temporarily, everyone could use a few tips on how to stay productive during this time at home. For most people stayi...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/tips-and-tricks-for-working-from-home/
The spring real estate market can be intimidating for any buyer. This is particularly true if you have never bought a home before. First-time homebuyers who are facing this year's spring real est...
If you're thinking about going solar, you're probably wondering: Is solar cost-effective? Is my roof suitable for solar panels? Will solar energy generate enough electricity to power my home? Who...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/is-your-home-a-good-candidate-for-solar-panels/
Congratulations to February Hockey Mom winner, Tami Keller from Conway! Tami has two children, Mathew and Morgan, with Mathew playing for the Central Valley Warriors Varsity team and the Beaver B...
Spring isn't the only season that has sprung upon us lately; we're in the middle of tax season and if you're a homeowner, tax time can be a very good time for you. It doesn't matter if you own a ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/tax-questions-were-here-to-help/
With warmer days in sight, you might be thinking about listing your home for the upcoming spring market. One way that sellers can help their home to stand out is by hosting an open house. Open ho...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-to-prepare-for-an-open-house/
Are you looking to list your home in the spring? If so, you might want to take the time now to start organizing and decluttering your home. Decluttering your home can be a big job, but will be wo...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-to-declutter-your-home-before-you-list-it/
Congratulations! You've just purchased a new home. You signed your name on the dotted line, packed up all your things, hauled them to your new home, unpacked (mostly), and have finally started to...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/new-home-new-setting/
Dinner and a movie is a tried and true date, but this Valentine's Day, why not do something a little different? Pittsburgh is full of fun, romantic ways to spend an evening with the one you love....
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/valentines-day-date-ideas-in-pittsburgh/
Cold weather tends to keep some of us indoors during the long winter months. But there is some hope in battling the cabin fever that can make us feel a little blue. This winter season, try to add...
Does cabin fever have you itching to get out of the house this winter? Pittsburgh has some of the best spots for a weekend getaway. From skiing to wine tasting, here are the best winter day trips...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/the-best-weekend-winter-getaways-around-pittsburgh/
Are you dreaming of making upgrades to your kitchen in the new year? When you are thinking of what upgrades to make, you might want to consider adding granite countertops to your kitchen or bathr...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/four-reasons-to-upgrade-your-countertops-to-granite/
New year, new financial goals. If you're starting off the new decade with a list of resolutions, consider adding some financial to-dos to your list! Follow these steps to achieve your financial g...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/money-resolutions-to-help-you-in-2020/
Congratulations to our first Hockey Mom winner of 2020, Christine George, from the New Kensington/Lower Burrell area. Christine wears many hats in her hockey association and the hockey world in g...
The holiday season is nearly over, and the new year is about to begin. Now is the perfect time to set goals for the new year. With a fresh start, make this year your best yet with these helpful t...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-to-ring-in-the-new-year-as-a-real-estate-agent/
Being a real estate agent probably means you have a super busy schedule. If you find yourself wishing that there was more time in the day, you might want to make time management your New Years' r...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/time-management-tips-for-the-new-year/
Winter is not only known for cold when it comes to the weather. Most home buyers and sellers would agree that there are hotter times for the real estate market too, but this season you might actu...
This holiday season there is no better gift you can get yourself or a loved one than a new home appliance! From scoring a good deal to making your kitchen more efficient for a big dinner party, t...
Congratulations to Melissa Crawford, our December Hockey Mom winner! Melissa spends many hours at the local rinks supporting her two hockey-playing sons, Jack and James, with James playing for th...
It's the most wonderful time of the year, especially in Pittsburgh. The city and surrounding areas are filled with holiday activities for all ages to participate in! Go Ice Skating in Market Squa...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/the-best-holiday-activities-around-pittsburgh/
As a real estate agent, you're always on the go, meeting new clients, viewing properties and signing contracts. Time is of the essence and having the right information available when you need it ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/five-of-the-best-apps-for-real-estate-agents/
After you take the time to make a delicious dinner, you wouldn't want to ruin it with bland table decorations. This Thanksgiving make an impression on your guests with a beautifully decorated tab...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-to-set-your-table-for-thanksgiving/
Congratulations to our November Hockey Mom winner, Elizabeth Turcovsky from Mentor, Ohio. Elizabeth grew up in a hockey family watching her brothers play, and now is carrying on the tradition wit...
Pittsburgh and its surrounding areas have more than its fair share of great hiking spots. November is the perfect time to get outside, enjoy the fresh air and be active! Planning your next outdoo...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/the-best-hiking-trails-around-pittsburgh/
The holidays are quickly approaching, which means flights and car rentals are on your mind. Although people usually associate car rentals with business trips or traveling for the holidays, there ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/car-rentals-why-its-a-good-idea/
According to the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) 2017 Member Safety Survey, almost half of female REALTORS® (44 percent) and one in four male REALTORS® have experienced a situation in ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/five-tips-to-keep-you-safe-as-a-real-estate-agent/
Have you found your dream home, but the kitchen size is less than desirable? Don't worry! There are so many different ways to organize your kitchen and surrounding areas to maximize space and min...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-to-maximize-space-in-a-small-kitchen/
Do you think your house feels a little dull? Want to change things up? Try adding a pop of color in with your decor! Incorporating new colors into your home will totally revamp your space and add...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/creative-ways-to-add-color-to-your-home/
Congratulations to this season's first Hockey Mom winner, Beth Almes-Kobak from Indiana! Our October winner is a mom to two children, Andrew and Paige, with Andrew playing hockey for the Indiana ...
No one imagines they will fall victim to a robbery, break-in, or even natural disasters. In the event that this could happen, you will want to be prepared as possible. Home security systems are a...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/five-reasons-you-need-a-home-security-system/
A common misconception is that it costs a lot to stage your home. When it comes to selling a home, appearance is everything. Home staging can make all the difference. Most home sellers think they...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-to-stage-your-home-on-a-budget/
Now that it is fall and October is approaching, the leaves are falling and the weather is getting cooler it is time to partake in Pittsburgh's favorite fall activities. There are a ton of new and...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/five-fall-activities-to-do-in-pittsburgh/
Fall is in the air and that means crisp nights, football and pumpkins, but fall can also be a great season to boost your curb appeal and have fun decorating for the season! From planting flowers ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/falling-in-love-with-curb-appeal/
Replacing your home's windows can seem like a task that is not your top priority, but the benefits you can gain will make a huge difference. Over time, windows need to be replaced, just like your...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/five-reasons-to-replace-your-windows/
Whether it is your first move or you are a seasoned professional, there is no doubt that moving can be stressful. From organizing to packing and all the tasks in between, you are likely wondering...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/the-dos-and-donts-when-it-comes-to-moving/
There's good news all around for the housing market. You can expect the remainder of the 2019 year to be one of the best that real estate has ever seen! Unemployment is the lowest it has been in ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/is-now-the-best-time-to-purchase-a-home/
No one wants to be stuck on the side of the road for any reason, especially from car trouble. Even if you feel prepared for a number of potential problems on the road - like a flat tire or dead b...
Whether you are a first-time home buyer or a seasoned moving professional, the home buying process is stressful. It's a complicated process involving both strong emotions and what may be the bigg...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/tips-for-a-stress-free-buying-process/
Now that the warm weather is finally here to say, it's time to get outside and get moving. Pittsburgh is home to some of the best fitness events in the country! It's time to get your heart pumpin...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/five-of-the-best-fitness-events-in-pittsburgh/
You might find yourself binge watching shows on HGTV like "Fixer Upper", "Property Brothers" or "Flip or Flop" and thinking that you want to purchase a home to flip or a fixer upper for yourself....
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-to-save-money-on-a-fixer-upper/
Calling all Pittsburgh foodies! Pittsburgh's lively and expanding food scene is one of our favorite things about calling the Steel City home. From food trucks to our more traditional Yinzer cuisi...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/a-foodies-guide-to-the-best-pittsburgh-restaurants/
Sellers, are you stuck on how to update your home before listing it? How about adding a touch of paint? We have put together a list of benefits that a fresh coat of paint can add to your home whe...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/six-benefits-from-a-fresh-coat-of-paint/
Now that it's finally July, it's time to start enjoying the summer. There's no better feeling than spending time with man's best friend. These six dog-friendly spots in Pittsburgh will let you an...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/6-best-spots-to-take-your-dog-in-pittsburgh/
There are so many things to love about July. Summer is in full swing with backyard barbeques, bonfires, pool parties and the celebration of America's Birthday. When it comes to the 4th of July, t...
Securing a mortgage can be a complicated and timely process. When you are preapproved or prequalified for a mortgage, you gain an advantage and have the opportunity to bid on the home you would l...
When you think about summer, you think about the fun things we associate with warm weather: playing outdoor sports, barbeques, working in the garden, and of course cooling off in a pool. Swimming...
Have you ever thought of having a career in real estate? If so, you have probably imagined some of the fantastic personal and financial benefits that can come from being an agent. While there are...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/why-to-become-a-real-estate-agent/
It's an exciting time for gardeners. We've reached mid-spring and now is the time to start making our summer-garden plans. While it's always important to touch up your garden this time of year, w...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/5-summer-garden-trends-to-revamp-your-landscaping/
The internet has enough information to turn almost any beginner into an experienced do-it-yourselfer. Have a running toilet? Check out a couple of YouTube videos, and the next thing you know you ...
Mother's Day is approaching, and if you haven't already, now's the time to plan the perfect day for yourself or your own mom. To help make the day special, we've researched some of the best resta...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/mothers-day-in-pittsburgh/
Summer is approaching, and along with lemonade on the porch and trips to the pool, those who are looking for their first home will be gifted with a healthy market. When the weather warms, the U.S...
With our spring cleaning tasks just about completed, it is now time to prepare for carefree summer months of enjoying more time outdoors with neighbors, family members, and friends. With summer B...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/child-and-pet-proofing-your-home/
With Earth Day's arrival and the influx of warmer weather on the horizon, there is no denying it - spring is here! The season brings the annual task of sprucing up your home. That's right, it's t...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/spring-cleaning-must-dos/
There is a lot of preparation and effort that goes into buying a home. From searching through various listings to saving up for a down payment to applying for a mortgage and all the inspections a...
The spring home-buying season is on! If you're on the buying end of the season, you know that means you could be facing a lot of competition for the home you want to purchase. But if you're on th...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-not-to-be-a-difficult-seller/
Days are longer, the air is (at least a little) warmer and we've likely even seen a few hints at new blossoms-spring is officially here! Some might of even have ushered in this month by pulling a...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/national-lawn-and-garden-month-tips/
When you have 5 exceptional Hockey Mom of the Month winners, how do you decide who will be Hockey Mom of the Year? It was the task that we gave our judging panel which was joined by special guest...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/congratulations-to-our-hockey-mom-of-the-year/
Spring is the time for many major home remodeling projects. From installing new flooring to upgrading your porch or patio to any other number of home upgrades, warmer weather seems to signal the ...
It is common for homeowners who've lost a home to foreclosure to feel a certain sense of defeat-and even a little fear-when it comes to trying to buy another home. Frankly, nobody wants to defaul...
When most couples plan things they can do together, managing money might not make it to the top of the list. However, maybe it should. Dealing with your finances can cause major strain for anyone...
Now that the weather is starting to warm up and we're all adjusting to that extra hour of daylight in the evenings, it is the perfect time to get outside and send cabin fever packing for the spri...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/kid-friendly-home-improvement-projects/
The past few days of beautiful weather have most of us eagerly awaiting spring's arrival, so you know what that means. The spring home-buying season is also heating up. Local home buyers and sell...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/five-tips-for-buying-a-home-out-of-state/
Many homeowners have found that hosting their homes on Airbnb can be a great way to generate some extra income-income that can be directly applied to a monthly mortgage payment, home renovations ...
When you buy or sell a home, you are taking part in one of the biggest financial transactions you'll ever make. Though certainly rewarding from either side, the entire process can be physically, ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/what-to-do-when-you-inherit-real-estate/
When you reach a time in your life that you're ready to downsize from a large home into a smaller space, it can be beneficial to work with a real estate agent who specializes in senior services. ...
You might have noticed that subtly longer days and milder temperatures have been creeping back onto the scene lately. It's true-spring is on the horizon. But, we're not in the clear just yet. In ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/cold-and-germ-season-ways-to-keep-your-home-safe/
When you invest in a home, whether it is brand new or beautifully aged, you want to make sure it is protected. Homeowners insurance, which is required when you purchase a home, covers against maj...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/weighing-the-benefits-of-a-home-warranty/
With the passing of Valentine's Day and the upcoming spring home-buying season, it pretty much goes without saying that love is in the air for homes currently on the market. With all that affecti...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/what-do-to-when-youre-in-a-multi-offer-situation/
During winter, it is easy for cabin fever to set in. Cold temperatures tend to keep us all indoors, which can leave us craving spring's sweet sunshine and fresh air. Instead of settling for a dre...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/10-home-projects-to-complete-in-winter/
Congratulations to our February Hockey Mom of the Month winner, Colleen Sciorilli! Mom to Adam and Sarah, Colleen is involved with the youth of Washington County both on and off the ice. As a boa...
As we're well underway with the second month of the year, we've just got to ask how are those financial resolutions you set for 2019 coming along? Whether you're saving a little or still spending...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/10-simple-ways-to-save-money-every-day/
We recently shared some news that might have you considering a new career in real estate. If you're already on that path or you know you're ready to get started, today we're offering a few tips a...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/10-traits-of-successful-real-estate-agents/
Feeling like you've been struck by Cupid? Think you could even be falling head over heels? Ready to utter that four-letter word you've been holding onto for what seems like an eternity? When you ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/love-or-lust-10-ways-to-know-a-house-is-the-one/
It doesn't matter if you are buying or selling a home. When you're completing a major real estate transaction, you often rely on the information and advice your professional real estate agent has...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/things-your-agent-cannot-tell-you/
Don't let the first month of the year end without making a little positive progress toward some of your annual goals. If you are considering buying a home this year, building up your credit score...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/credit-score-resolutions/
The end of January is upon us, which serves as a good reminder of all those well-intended resolutions we set for the new year. Do you have your sights set on a professional move this year? And, n...
There is always a lot of excitement around the time of year when Pantone announces their hottest new color. This year proves to be the year of "Living Coral" or slightly salmon or a pretty shade ...
It might feel like we're in the dead of winter right now, but before we know it, the spring home-buying season will be upon us. The good news for sellers is that there is still plenty of time to ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-to-prepare-for-buyers-season/
Congratulations to our first Hockey Mom winner of 2019, Tammy Kitterman from Bethel Park. Tammy's son, Brock, plays for the Pittsburgh Penguins Blind Hockey Team. When Brock was 12 weeks old, he ...
We all know that the beginning of the year is a great time to set a few goals. But by now, you may be feeling the strain of the year's typical resolutions. Instead of thinking about losing a litt...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/local-things-to-add-to-your-2019-bucket-list/
Cold weather tends to keep some of us indoors during the long winter months. But there is some hope in battling the cabin fever that can make us feel a little blue. Houseplants are a great way to...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/national-houseplant-appreciation-day/
There is always a lot of focus on making changes during the beginning of the year. And, why not? The new year is a great time to focus on the things you want. If you're looking to buy a home in 2...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/six-steps-to-buy-a-home-in-2019/
Now that the new year has arrived, many of us are busily plugging away at our resolutions. You know, eating healthier, spending less and making a few much-needed style upgrades around our homes! ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/2019-home-trends/
Instead of caving into the cold-weather blues, use your time inside this winter to tackle some projects around the house. Take a good look around and you're sure to find some room for renovations...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/home-projects-that-can-be-done-in-winter/
In the aftermath of holiday spending, it is time to focus on our financial goals for the new year. Sure, many people make a resolution to spend less and save more each year, but what can you do t...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/budgeting-for-the-new-year/
It's hard to beat the festive feeling of a fully decorated house during the holidays. But once the season ends, what are homeowners to do with all the decor that has been filling their homes duri...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/helpful-hacks-for-holiday-storage/
Congratulations to Julie Soose, Hockey Mom of the Month for December. Being a Hockey Mom is familiar territory for Julie as her three children, Aidan, Tristan and Lydia, all play. Julie is active...
With less than two weeks until winter's biggest holiday, many of us are caught up in the hustle and bustle of the season. We're enamored with the sights of a few snowflakes, exhausted from long d...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/local-free-winter-activities/
Winter is not only known for cold when it comes to the weather. Most home buyers and sellers would agree that there are hotter times for the real estate market too. The mere thoughts of snow and ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/buyers-guide-to-winter-real-estate/
Your parents, check. Your kids, check. Your spouse, check. Your home? What?! As you're completing your holiday shopping this month, there are some obvious gift recipients on your list. But this y...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/best-gifts-for-your-home/
With so much focus on the holidays during this time of year, it can be easy to lose sight of some regular maintenance tasks around your home. However, if your home is on the market during these c...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/six-cold-weather-tips-for-home-sellers/
Black Friday and Cyber Monday have officially kicked off the 2018 holiday shopping season. But where do these big-spending days leave those of us who would like to remain financially responsible ...
For many, the Thanksgiving holiday weekend might be filled with shopping sales at big-time retailers and small businesses. But for those who would rather avoid the crowds and spend the holiday wi...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/thanksgiving-events-in-pittsburgh/
Along with shorter days, fall's arrival means that homeowners have a few extra maintenance issues to complete before colder weather sets in. Though it may seem like a bit of a chore, completing f...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/fall-home-maintenance/
The weather outside might be getting colder, but that is no reason for home sellers to think their potential for selling during winter months cannot still be hot. In fact, there are certain perks...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/5-positives-of-listing-your-home-in-the-winter-time/
Congratulations to Greensburg native, Mandi Hammond, who was named Hockey Mom of the Month for November. Mandi was described as "always taking care of everyone else", and we can see why! Mandi is...
Today's home searches do not begin by simply driving by a "for sale" sign and stopping in to view a home. In many cases, buyers begin searching for their next properties from the comforts of thei...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/tips-for-buyers-doing-online-searches/
By now, you've surely put away your witches, skeletons and other scary Halloween outdoor decorations. While they were fun for welcoming neighborhood trick-or-treaters, you can't just keep your sp...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/the-importance-of-curb-appeal/
It has long been believed that buyers must put 20% of a home's purchase price down to qualify for a conventional home loan. Is this really the case? First-time homebuyers can find some relief fro...
For many people, buying a home is all about falling in love with a property that has all or most of the features on their needs and wants list. Things like the number of bedrooms and floor plan, ...
Once you get past closing day, it's smooth sailing to get into your new home, right? Well, sometimes. There is still one big hurdle when it comes to buying and settling into a new home move-in da...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/15-quick-tips-to-ensure-a-smooth-move/
So, you've just put your home on the market congratulations! Surely, it took a lot of effort to get to this point. You had to find the right real estate agent, clean and declutter your home for l...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/5-things-to-expect-after-listing-your-home/
This weekend marks the last full weekend before Halloween, so you know what that means. If you haven't had your share of fears and frights this season, you'll need to pack in a few haunted moment...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/spooky-and-scary-things-to-do-in-western-pa/
Even the happiest of professionals can admit that they dream of retirement from time to time - and maybe even more frequently. And, why not? For many, retirement means more time to spend with tho...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/signs-you-should-sell-your-home-when-you-retire/
So, you're buying a home. You've applied for financing and saved enough money for a down payment. You've made an offer that's been accepted. You've gone through all the necessary home inspections...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/what-you-need-to-know-about-closing-costs/
For anyone, buying a home is a daunting task. But for a 20-something, you know-today's millennials, buying a home can be an enormous undertaking. But it is not an unachievable goal. In fact, toda...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-to-buy-a-home-in-your-20s/
October's start signals the beginning of the year's fourth financial quarter. For those of us who made financial resolutions at the beginning of the year, this quarter is a good reminder to check...
Congratulations to Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices The Preferred Realty's Hockey Mom winner for October, Kristi Minnick. As the first Hockey Mom winner of the season, Kristi takes the word "volun...
Typically, when you set out to complete a home remodeling project, you're aiming to make upgrades to a home you already love. In a best-case scenario, you're able to complete renovations in a cos...
Autumn is here, which means that now is the perfect time to scope out the region's fun fall festivals. And when it comes to all things fall, Pittsburgh is a great place to experience the exciteme...
Now that fall has officially arrived, it is absolutely OK to embrace the season and pull out your favorite autumn-inspired decor. Besides, we all know you've been grabbing a pumpkin spice latte w...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/trendiest-home-decor-ideas-this-fall/
From searching for homes to picking up your new keys on closing day, buying a home is an exciting process. Many first-time homebuyers also have the benefit of receiving advice from family members...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/home-buying-myths/
Just last week, we shared a list of real estate lingo to help first-time home buyers and sellers navigate through the real estate process. From contingencies to quaint properties, there certainly...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/realtor-vs-real-estate-agent-whats-the-difference/
Fall is upon us, and by now, most of our students have begun to bring home a few assignments. To keep pace with this year's scholarly crowd, we're offering up a few vocabulary words that are sure...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/real-estate-lingo-you-need-to-know/
As fall approaches, home sellers are doing whatever they can to make their homes the most on the market. To attract prospective buyers, things like well-maintained curb appeal and properly staged...
Now that most students have headed back to class and we have a little extra time before football season kicks off, it's time to take a good hard look at our finances. Are you comfortably earning,...
Pencils and books are bought, lunches are packed and this year's slew of back-to-school ads have pretty much everyone looking stylish and at least attempting to do the floss! Yep, from pre-K to p...
When you're trying to sell your home, you want prospective buyers to explore a bit during showings, right? You want them to look around, get comfortable with the space and even imagine themselves...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/protecting-your-home-when-its-on-the-market/
For a real estate agent who is always on the go, keeping track of numerous showings, closings and other appointments while constantly communicating with clients and other professionals can be qui...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/best-apps-for-real-estate-agents/
When you're ready to sell your home, the last thing you want to do is spend a lot of money on it, right? But you need to make sure that your home will be appealing to prospective buyers. Is there...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/10-budget-friendly-ways-to-stage-your-home/
You're on your way to buy a new home, congrats! You've found the one you love your offer has been accepted you've completed the inspection with little-to-no issues you're almost there, right? The...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/what-to-do-about-a-low-appraisal-/
Back-to-school bus traffic has not yet begun to affect the daily commute, but many college students are already preparing to pack the car and head back to campus for another semester. While stude...
With back-to-school season in full swing, things like covering tuition costs and paying for extracurricular activities may be weighing high on your mind. Instead of worrying about all those extra...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/10-easy-ways-to-save-money/
As students and staff prepare to head back to class this fall, you can bet that many lease agreements are being renewed or even signed for the very first time. If you're a landlord, you obviously...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/5-ways-renters-insurance-could-save-you/
Summer may be the time for switching it up when it comes to your home, but that doesn't have to mean buying a new home and starting all over. In fact, if you're a long-time homeowner whose home j...
As a nation, we just celebrated our independence. When you were watching fireworks and thinking about all of the freedoms that you enjoy, did financial freedom make your list? It's something that...
More and more millennial buyers are entering the real estate market these days, which means that the time to start saving money is now! Since many millennials are still in college-and college can...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/10-quick-money-tips-for-college-students/
In many real estate markets across the nation, buying a home makes more financial sense than renting one. However, if you're currently renting an apartment or home, you may have some major concer...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/10-tips-to-help-renters-save-money-to-buy-a-home/
The spending season is upon us. But, that doesn't mean you should be spending in excess everywhere you go. Just like you may be waiting for the best deals on those perfect holiday gifts, you also...
If you're in the market for a new home this year and you want to secure a great financing rate, you're going to need to have a good credit score. But, how are you supposed to know if there is som...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/5-factors-weighing-down-your-credit-/
When you're waiting to move into a new home, a 30- or 60-day closing can feel like an eternity. While you can't file your own mortgage paperwork, you can do some things to help speed up your clos...
From freely making simple design choices around the house to having something that is constantly accruing in value, there certainly are perks to being a homeowner year-round. But, spring brings p...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/five-major-tax-breaks-for-homeowners/
A screened-in patio, updated countertops, and new flooring summer is often the season when people decide to make major renovations to their homes. Do you have big plans for your home, but are not...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/home-renovation-loans/
When it comes to purchasing a new home, buyers are typically excited about choosing the options that are most important to them. Flooring, countertops and other fixtures may top their lists. But ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-to-choose-the-right-mortgage/
You've probably already seen back-to-school displays in stores. You may even be feeling a little sad because the end of summer is in sight. But that doesn't mean there is no time left for a few s...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/simple-ways-to-increase-your-homes-value/
As if we even needed a reason to enjoy more ice cream this summer, July is National Ice Cream Month! How can you celebrate this sweet occasion? By visiting some of Pittsburgh's best ice cream sho...
In the process of moving into a new home this summer? Well, don't forget to christen your new space with a housewarming party! We know, we know, the last thing you may feel like doing when you're...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-to-throw-a-great-housewarming-party/
When it comes to real estate, you've probably heard of homes being listed as "for sale by owner." This is when a home is put up for sale by its owners, without the help of a real estate agent. Si...
Homeownership is an awesome role, but it requires a bit of responsibility. For everything from changing light bulbs to hanging up home decor, homeowners are responsible for their own routine home...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/10-things-new-homeowners-should-buy/
This week, our minds may be filled with thoughts of backyard BBQs and 4th of July fireworks. And rightfully so! But, after this week's sparkling summer celebration is over, there still will be lo...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/national-picnic-month/
As the month of July approaches this weekend, it's time to make a game plan for keeping cool over the long, hot summer days ahead. What better way to chill off this summer than by spending the da...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/best-public-pools-in-pittsburgh/
Right now, the real estate market may pretty favorable for home sellers. But, that doesn't mean sellers can just kick back, relax and wait for their homes to sell. It's true; many buyers are seek...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/5-things-home-sellers-need-to-know/
If you're new to buying a home this summer, you've probably been advised that you'll need to factor in the cost of homeowners insurance. While it is something you pay on a monthly basis, it typic...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/what-you-should-know-about-homeowners-insurance/
The heat is on for home sellers during this competitive real estate market. Sure, many buyers are primed and ready to close and move into new homes before a new school year starts. But, with so m...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/a-home-sellers-summer-to-do-list/
Summer is here, which means it's time for sun, fun, and safety, of course! If you and your family are looking forward to a little #frontporchsittin and many #backyardBBQs, you'll want to be sure ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/10-tips-for-staying-safe-during-summer-fun/
School's out for the summer, so you know what that means it's time to fill your calendar with fun activities. If you live in or around the city of Pittsburgh, you're in luck! There is never a lac...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/things-to-do-in-pittsburgh-this-summer/
With so much competition in busy real estate markets right now, some potential home sellers may be considering renting out their homes instead of listing. Of course, there are certain benefits to...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/what-you-need-to-know-before-renting-out-your-home/
With June's arrival, summer wedding season will be in full swing. But, today, more and more couples are foregoing their nuptials and taking a financial leap into mortgage matrimony. It is becomin...
You know you'll have to pack more than a few boxes. You'll patch some holes and possibly repaint. You'll probably even pack an overnight bag or two to make sure your family members have all of th...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/tips-for-moving-with-pets-/
The school year is winding down, which means that soon, many more motivated home buyers will be entering the real estate market with high hopes of settling into a new home before another school y...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/10-reasons-you-need-a-real-estate-agent/
As if the summer season isn't busy enough, typically full of backyard gatherings, baseball games, vacations and many more activities-can you imagine adding a major move into that mix? There are m...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/10-things-you-must-do-before-moving-into-a-new-home/
There is no doubt, our city is widely known for foods like pierogies and Primanti Bros. But, we don't only like to stack fries on our sandwiches! Pittsburgh is also known for topping our salads w...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/national-salad-month-best-salads-in-pittsburgh-/
With Memorial Day right around the corner, savvy shoppers everywhere are preparing for some of the year's biggest sales. Any homeowner in need of new appliances can cook up some deep discounts du...
For many homebuyers, the word "foreclosure" can be a major forewarning when it comes to making a home purchase. In today's real estate market, foreclosures are less common to come by. Therefore, ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/10-facts-you-should-know-about-buying-a-foreclosure/
Some people do Mother's Day the flowers way, or the jewelry way or the chocolate-dipped fruit way. But, for those of us in Pittsburgh, there are a few ways to show Mom you care with a little home...
You've heard all the hype about the hot home-buying market this spring. You're intrigued. You're interested. You want to make a move. But, are you ready? Can you really afford to buy a home? Befo...
With May's arrival, things are really starting to heat up. From the temperatures outside to the spring real estate market, things are getting hot, hot, hot out there. So, if you're a seller that ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/ways-to-prepare-your-home-for-an-open-houses/
The spring season brings the arrival of the one of the busiest home remodeling seasons. From patios to porches to landscaping and more, homeowners everywhere are getting bit by the home-renovatin...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/remodeling-how-to-find-the-right-contractor/
With spring in the air and the school year winding down, summer travel is high on the minds of many of us. While you may be busy planning a beach getaway or a couple of camping excursions, it is ...
As Earth Day approaches this weekend, you may be considering doing something nice for Mother Nature. Amping up your recycling efforts, volunteering to pick up trash and planting a few trees are g...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/10-eco-friendly-home-improvement-projects/
These days, online retailers like Amazon have drastically changed the way we shop for everything from pens and pencils to pants and pantry items. Have online conveniences like hundreds of custome...
Eager home sellers are not the only people gearing up for a bustling spring real estate season. Real estate agents everywhere are preparing for what is typically one of their busiest times of the...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/five-must-have-apps-for-real-estate-agents/
You've heard of buying points to obtain a lower annual percentage rate, or APR, on your mortgage. You've probably even heard of people, who buy items like a dining room table or another piece of ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/can-you-buy-a-home-with-bitcoin/
April may be National Lawn and Garden Month, but if you want seasonal showers to bring bright greens and blossoms to your landscaping, you'll need to give your curb appeal a closer look this spri...
It is a pretty amazing feeling for home sellers when the offers start coming in. However, that excitement can quickly be shrouded by a low-ball offer, or an offer that is far lower than your aski...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/three-tips-for-how-to-handle-a-low-ball-offer/
Despite Mother Nature's rather impressive attempt to convince us otherwise, spring has sprung! What can you do to chase away the recent memories of an early spring snowfall? Start your spring cle...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/spruce-up-your-home-with-10-spring-cleaning-musts/
Spring has officially begun, which means that DIY season is also underway. But before you dive into your warm weather projects, it may pay off to prepare a bit. And we're not just talking about u...
The spring real estate market can be intimidating for any buyer. This is particularly true if you have never bought a home before. First-time home buyers who are facing this year's spring real es...
As spring weather approaches, many homes will be hitting the real estate market. That's great for buyers everywhere, right? But, what if your home is listed among some stiff competition? You want...
In the market for a fixer upper this spring? The experts on your favorite home improvement shows make it look so easy, right? You know, finding a home in less-than-savory condition and turning it...
Even those of us who were reluctant to first buy a smartphone would probably agree that technology makes things a little easier on us sometimes. When it comes to your home, this also can be true....
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/five-smart-products-worth-trying-in-your-home/
The real estate market continues to heat up as many sellers prepare to list their homes. In kind, buyers are eagerly anticipating the influx of homes that are typically available in spring. With ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/is-now-a-good-time-to-downsize/
Do the last few days of warm weather have your mind swirling with sweet thoughts of spring? Yes, please! Of course, that also means the hot spring real estate market is within our reach. What can...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-to-not-lose-the-house-you-want-in-five-ways-/
If you own a home, there is no doubt you remember the feeling you got when that first pair of "new home" keys were handed to you. Can you imagine multiplying that feeling by two, three, four or e...
Most home buyers know that they can negotiate the price of a home when they go to make an offer on it. But, what may come as a surprise to many first-time homebuyers or even some more seasoned bu...
Valentine's Day is today, but if you haven't already made reservations for you and your special someone, don't worry! Pittsburgh offers something for any-and-every couple, whether it's Cupid's fa...
Still striving for a better you in 2018? Have you thought about tackling those sometimes-forgotten home maintenance tasks? As we prepare to transition from winter to spring, now is a great time t...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/10-home-maintenance-tasks-you-should-be-doing/
Despite a recent rodent's forecast, the spring home-selling season will be here before we know it. For anyone considering listing their home for sale, that means the time to start preparations fo...
This week, we're saying goodbye to the first month of 2018-so, you know what that means. It is time to take another look at the goals you've set for this year. If you have aspirations of buying a...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/5-must-have-items-for-your-house-hunt/
You've probably heard that renting rooms in your own home is becoming quite common. Perhaps you're just searching for a roommate for your next semester at college. Maybe you're a landlord who is ...
Maybe it's because your team didn't make it to the big game. Maybe it's the unseasonably warm weather. Maybe you've just got that home-decorating itch. If you've found yourself recently evaluatin...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/10-home-decorating-mistakes-to-avoid/
So far this year, you're hitting the gym 2-3 times each week; you've even booked flights and made plans to travel more; now, it's time to tackle that resolution to be more fiscally responsible. I...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/10-money-resolutions-to-make-your-2018-prosper/
Now that we've reached mid-January, it is time to get serious about our new year's resolutions. If you're working in the real estate industry, one of your resolutions could be to boost your busin...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/10-tips-to-boost-your-real-estate-business/
By now, you've probably seen that bright ultra violet hue that Pantone has deemed 2018's color of the year. If that pretty purple has got you feeling a bit blue about decorating your home this ye...
As we kick off a new year, let's take a look at the upgrade options that are forging to the top of many homeowners' want lists. As you think about your own winter home renovation projects, here a...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/2018s-most-in-demand-home-upgrade-projects/
As we embrace 2018, you may be compiling your list of resolutions. If one of the things on your goal list is selling your home, you may want to consider making that task the first one you tackle ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/make-a-resolution-to-sell-your-home-this-winter-/
Today, Jeopardy fans everywhere are celebrating National Trivia Day. Of course, we couldn't let real estate enthusiasts miss out on the fun! Thanks to Inman and REtipster, we found enough real es...
The ball has dropped. The streamers are all swept up. We've given 2018 an official welcome and you may already be hard at work on some of the resolutions you set. What does the new year have in s...
As you prepare to welcome 2018, you may be thinking about embarking on some new adventures. If you've resolved to become a landlord next year, that goal could be easier to reach than you think. I...
Now that the holiday season is coming to an end, it may be time for you to start working on some other wishes you know, that never-ending list of home improvement projects! This year, don't feel ...
We're heading into the holiday weekend, which may have many of us feeling very merry. However, for any would-be burglars out there, the upcoming holiday may seem like the perfect opportunity to g...
Made it to work on time for this morning's meeting? Check. Picked up the kids-and dinner? Check. Put the laundry in the dryer after washing clothes yesterday? Oh, um let's check. As if working fu...
During this busy shopping season, many of us are crossing items off our lists each and every day. But, what if you're looking for a very big-ticket item this holiday season? Though there may not ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/five-tips-for-buying-a-home-in-winter/
Your decorations are up. You've bought a few gifts. You may even have your holiday cards addressed. Now that the holiday season is in full swing, it is time to focus on this year's hosting respon...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/seven-tips-to-prepare-your-home-for-holiday-guests/
Admittedly, fall weather has been pretty kind to us all this year. But, for those homeowners who prefer a full escape from seasonal snow, the time is near to flock south for the winter. If you're...
Now that Thanksgiving is over, it's time to shift mental gears to the impending holiday shopping season. With so many deals before the holidays arrive, it is incredibly easy to go spend crazy. Bu...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/5-ways-to-avoid-overspending-this-holiday-season/
If you've just moved into a new home in the Pittsburgh area, the chances are good that you may not be ready to host a major holiday this year. But, if you're a new Pittsburgh area homeowner who i...
These days, so many buyers are looking for homes that include a home office. If one isn't already set up, you can bet lots of buyers are looking for the ideal space to turn into their own. So, it...
For so many sellers and buyers, completing a real estate transaction is an extremely emotional process. And, for good reason, right? When you're selling a home that you've made memories in, it is...
As the holidays approach, now is a great time to stock up on gifts, right? Of course, it is! But, this year, try to think beyond the seasonal holidays. Maybe you know someone who has just moved i...
In today's real estate market, time can be of the essence when a new home goes up for sale. In highly coveted areas, it can seem like homes are already under contract before you even see a "For S...
When you find the right real estate agent, you're entering into a great partnership with someone you can trust. Your agent will share as much information with you as possible. But, it can help to...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/15-things-your-realtor-would-like-you-to-know/
In the spirit of today's Halloween holiday, we're taking a look into the spooky, eerie things about a home that will simply scare buyers away. No, we're not talking about properties that may be r...
One of the greatest things about living in the Pittsburgh region is being able to enjoy four distinct seasons. Now that we are in the middle of the beautiful fall season, we can't help but share ...
Some of them have been around since you were a child. Some you may have found in college. Some may even be in your neighborhood or at work. No, we're not talking about your sweater collection-tho...
In a hot real estate market, it can seem that as soon as a "for sale" sign goes up in someone's yard, the home is immediately under contract. If you're planning to sell your home, you may be wond...
Step aside pumpkin spice, October is all about pizza. Seriously, October is National Pizza Month! From thin crusts to extra cheese, we're digging up some of the best pizzerias in Pittsburgh. Now,...
The changing seasons could have you thinking about making some other changes in your life. Perhaps you're considering the prospects of a career change. While certainly exciting, diving into a new...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/is-it-possible-to-be-a-part-time-real-estate-agent/
Now that mid-October has arrived, many of us have spent some time scouting out local haunted houses in the spirit of the Halloween season. While getting a good scare as you tour through creepy de...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/benefits-of-open-houses-for-buyers-and-sellers/
For many of us, the autumn season means falling leaves, football season and pumpkin-flavored something. But, if you're a homeowner, fall should mean must-do maintenance-in preparation for winter,...
Some have fur. Some have fins. Some have four legs. Some have feathers. One thing that our pets have in common is that they all are members of the family. So, when it comes to buying a home, we'v...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/five-pointers-for-buying-a-home-with-pets/
For anyone interested in buying a home, there are a lot of decisions to be made. From the type of flooring they may want to the type of loan they may qualify for, this major purchase comes with m...
Taking care of your pets while you're on vacation; helping you shovel out from a deep winter snow; or, just being there at the end of a long week with a good listening ear or a glass of wine-Ther...
Relocating for a job, taking care of a family member, changing marital status or simply finding the home you know will be yours forever these are all reasons that someone may need to list their h...
As fall officially gets underway, we're entering the holiday season, which can only mean one thing it is time to entertain! And, if you've just moved into a new home, that entertaining itch has p...
Now that Labor Day has come and gone, classes around the country are, without a doubt, back in session. While that means many things to many people, for landlords who lease their properties to co...
Want to impress your next date? Well, then cancel your "dinner and a movie" reservations and experience one of Pittsburgh's most unique date spots. Whether it's a first date or the hundredth date...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/8-awesomely-unique-dates-in-pittsburgh/
If you're in the market to buy your first home, you're likely feeling overcome with emotions, questions and possibly even some worry. After all, you've undoubtedly been advised that buying a home...
OK, homeowners, we know you've been spending a lot of time indoors during this icy, cold winter managing your social media accounts. Haven't we all? But, now that spring is near, the time for spr...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/five-handy-apps-for-managing-home-expenses/
We've all seen reality TV shows where handy men and women find old, dilapidated or foreclosed homes, buy them, renovate them and rent them out for a handsome profit. But, is there any truth in th...
Now that summer officially has arrived, you may have noticed that your friends or family members who work in the real estate industry may be a little harder to schedule some time with "I'm showin...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-to-become-a-real-estate-agent-in-pa/
As a homebuyer who has just received the news that your offer has been accepted, you may be tempted to break out into a happy dance. Woo hoo! You're one step closer to homeownership. Once a buyer...
When it comes to real estate transactions, the word "contingency" is common speak. However, that one simple word can carry several different meanings for both buyers and sellers. There are home s...
Whether you're still looking at homes for sale or you've just moved into a brand new home, we've found a few smartphone/tablet apps that you must have. These apps will help you with everything fr...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/top-10-must-have-apps-for-homeowners/
OK, house hunters, picture this: you've made your "need" and "want" lists; you've shopped around online and toured through too many houses to count; surprisingly, you've found more than one that ...
A second income based on a property you own sounds great, but how do you get there, especially if you're barely more than a first-time homebuyer? Very carefully, of course! Rental properties can ...
Many students are still getting back into the swing of things this fall semester, but we're ready to hand out some grades-and, failing ones at that! It may sound harsh, but today we're taking a l...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/10-reasons-real-estate-agents-fail/
The start of September signals the end of the summer travel season and the beginning of a new school year. This fall, you can count on spending cool weekends enjoying pumpkin-spice-something, wat...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/5-home-improvement-projects-to-never-diy/
With age comes different priorities-and nothing could be truer when it comes to buying a home. What a first-time homebuyer wants and needs is likely far different from what a veteran homeowner, w...
Today is National Eat Outside Day! While many Yinzers may argue that the best places to enjoy a meal outside are at PNC Park or Heinz Field, our hometown teams don't happen to be playing today. L...
OK, moms back-to-school season is here. In fact, your kids already may have started with their first day of classes. If so, you've probably already shared that signature back-to-school photo with...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/sold-why-so-many-moms-make-great-real-estate-agents/
Now that we're all done gazing at the solar eclipse and some of us have sent our little students back to class, it is time for us to hit the books and learn a bit about everyone's favorite topic ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/10-mortgage-terms-you-need-to-know/
We've all been there, curled up on the couch or in bed on a rainy day flipping through the channels, until we happily rest on our favorite HGTV show. Then, suddenly, something happens. It's like ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/five-favorite-takeaways-from-hgtv/
How many times have you said, "I wish I would have known " after you've done something for the first time? Well, if you're selling a home for the first time, there is no need to wish that you wou...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/10-tips-to-help-make-your-home-sale-go-smoothly-/
Some say the generation is entitled; some say they're lazy. They're also known to be tech-savvy, educated individuals. Who are they? They're millennials and they're a force to be reckoned with wh...
This summer, we've given a lot of advice to people looking to buy a home and those looking to sell theirs, too. You know what those two things have in common? Moving. And, when it comes to a stre...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/dont-make-a-move-without-doing-these-five-things/
Summer vacation season may be winding down as back-to-school season creeps in this month. But, that is no reason for the fun to end. August is National Family Fun Month and Pittsburgh is the perf...
Making the choice to buy a home is obviously a serious decision. But, you know what else is quite a conundrum? Deciding to walk away from a home you've been planning to buy. For a number of diffe...
Haven't caught on to the app craze just yet? If you own a home, we're about to give you 10 good reasons that you should just give in and start downloading! For everything from home decor to home ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/10-great-apps-to-help-homeowners/
Vacations, fairs, summer holiday appliance sales and more. There always seems to be perfectly legitimate reasons to spend money in the summer time. Instead of plotting your next purchase while yo...
We're not only in the heat of the summer months, but we're also in the heat of the hottest home-buying season around! So, how do you keep your cool once you've placed an offer on a home and you'r...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/what-not-to-do-when-buying-a-home/
You've probably heard that a picture is worth a thousand words. You've likely also been told not to judge a book by its cover. So, when you're looking to buy a home, should you accept what a pict...
For many people, the hot summer season may get a bit sticky or uncomfortable. But, those who are thinking about selling a home, those who have recently listed their homes or those who are at any ...
It's summer vacation season and although Pittsburgh gives you plenty of reasons to stick around for a stay-cation, there also are a lot of great spots for weekend getaways around the 'Burgh. Inst...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/weekend-getaways-and-mini-vacations-near-pittsburgh/
With graduation parties, vacations and the other gazillion events going on over the summer, there never could be a better time for a little financial help. What's even better than financial help?...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/five-free-money-management-apps-/
We get it. Buying a home for the first time is a scary thing. But, first-time home buyers in Pittsburgh have got something on their side - Pittsburgh is the best city in the U.S. for first-time h...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/why-pittsburgh-is-great-for-first-time-home-buyers/
The spring home selling and buying season is underway. And, like the weather, the market is hot! So, if you have been thinking about selling your home and moving up to a larger one, now may be th...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/time-to-move-up-ask-these-five-questions-first/
Who doesn't love watching the home improvement shows that depict two partners happily going through the home renovation process? Oh, sure, they run into a couple of bumps along the way - but, the...
Whether you're preparing for a big move this summer or just moving from your 20s into your 30s, everyone needs to declutter and clean up every once in a while. So, why not capitalize on all of th...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-to-host-the-perfect-neighborhood-yard-sale/
By our calendars, the Memorial Day holiday has officially kicked off the summer selling season and it looks like it is going to be a hot one! If you're listing your home for sale this summer, you...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/five-hot-tips-for-selling-your-home-in-summer/
"It's not you, it's me." This may be a line that no one wants to hear when they're in a relationship. But, what if you're in a home-selling relationship and you hear just the opposite? "It's not ...
From vacations to barbeques to backyard fun with your kids, it can be easy to get distracted from your career in the summertime. This can be true in the real estate industry, especially if you're...
You've probably heard about celebrity bromances and girl squads, you know those little groups of famous friends who've vowed to be besties forever. Maybe you've even got your own tight-knit group...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/who-you-need-by-your-side-when-you-buy-a-home/
As if Lord Stanley didn't bestow an awesome enough honor on many Pittsburgh dads this week, Pittsburgh is full of incredible options for showing Dad that you care on Father's Day. From baseball t...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/fathers-day-activities-in-pittsburgh/
There often is a lot of focus on first-time home buyers and the questions they may have as they enter the real estate market. However, the same should go for first-time home sellers, right? When ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/five-first-time-home-seller-faqs/
It wasn't long ago that we shared some fun Pittsburgh places to take Mom or suggested a few of the 'Burgh's best ways to show Dad some love; but, now that school is out for the summer, it is time...
For many of us, summer's official arrival means it is time for vacations, concerts and other outdoor fun. Of course, all of that excitement comes with a price. If you're in the process of buying ...
Warm breezes, long hours of sunlight and endless outdoor fun; yes, it is sweet summertime! You don't have to be outside sweating in the heat to experience the warmth of the summer season. You can...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/five-ways-to-freshen-your-home-for-summer/
May has arrived and it is officially time to trade in those April showers for Mother's Day flowers and Memorial Day fun! You've still got plenty of time to plan your end-of-the-month BBQ, but you...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/make-mothers-day-plans-in-pittsburgh/
With kids everywhere counting down the days until the end of another school year, moms and dads everywhere are trying to finalize summer plans. From daily care to vacations and other family activ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/10-tips-for-saving-money-this-summer/
As the end of another school year approaches, parents everywhere are preparing to have their children home for the summer. Understandably, safety is at the top of the minds of moms and dads right...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/5-ways-to-child-proof-your-home/
Maybe you've heard the phrase "With age comes beauty." This certainly is what many home buyers feel when they tour through older homes. Of course, there is beauty to be found in new homes, too. B...
At this point, April Fools' Day may be a distant memory; but, anyone who works in the real estate industry will tell you that some foolish things can happen on any day of any month. Often times, ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/eight-mistakes-first-time-home-buyers-make/
Maybe you're thinking about selling your home; maybe you've heard that interest rates are low and you think that now might be a good time to refinance; maybe you're simply curious about your home...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/five-ways-to-figure-out-how-much-your-home-is-worth/
Recently, we gave you a down and dirty guide to fixing up some filthy places in your home. But, when you're listing a home for sale, your efforts have got to be a little more far-reaching than ev...
As the current school year nears a close, one of the hottest home-selling seasons is about to get underway. Savvy sellers are preparing to list their homes with plenty of time to sell and close b...
We know. We know. April showers bring May flowers; but, before we are able to enjoy all of the sure signs of spring around us, Tax Day will be reigning down. This year, the deadline for filing yo...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/tax-deductions-for-homeonwers/
Spring cleaning season is upon us. Whether you're ready or not, it is time to tackle a few of those annual home cleaning tasks. In addition to your heavy spring home maintenance schedule, we've i...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/five-dirtiest-places-in-your-home/
With both Easter and Tax Day on the horizon, you may have forgotten that April also is National Lawn and Garden Month. Luckily - or not so luckily - for some of us, any brown grass or an influx o...
Have all the baby birds, blossoming buds and warmer air got you in the mood for your own little professional rebirth? Maybe it is time to explore a fresh new career path this spring! Since prime ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/10-reasons-youd-make-a-great-agent/
With spring officially in season, many homeowners may be eager to get home renovations and redecorating efforts underway. Of course, many may go the trendy route when it comes to revamping their ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/what-your-home-decor-says-about-you/
The nation recently celebrated National Puppy Day. If you're not familiar with the holiday, just think back to that one day last week when your social media feeds were flooded with photos of cani...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/tips-for-selling-your-home-when-you-have-pets/
So, you've met someone, fell in love and now you're ready for the next step buying a home, of course! This is the route that some couples are choosing today, swapping an engagement ring for a key...
Does the season of renewal have you ready to spring into action on buying a home? If so, you may be scouring available homes for sale to find the one that is just right for you. But, what do you ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/what-you-need-to-know-about-buying-a-home-as-is/
The start of daylight saving time also signals the upcoming arrival of the spring season, which is now just days away! Finally, we can look forward to bright blooms, chirping birds and um, you kn...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-to-prepare-your-home-for-spring/
As if selling a home is not already a stressful situation, some people must go through the process at the same time they also are going through a divorce. In addition to potentially heated discus...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/three-tips-when-selling-a-home-during-a-divorce/
Welp it's happened again. Pittsburgh has topped another national "best of" list. This time, our city ranks as MONEY's "Best Big City" in the U.S. Northeast. Their article points to big companies ...
Just last week, we offered a little advice on what to do if you are not able to buy your dream home in your ideal location. Today, we're going to give you a few reasons why our home, Pittsburgh, ...
We've got to give it to the millennial generation; they're an educated, tech-savvy bunch that typically knows what they want. Lately, we've been finding that many twenty-somethings in this group ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-to-buy-a-home-in-your-twenties/
One of the things that so many people love about living in the city of Pittsburgh is the opportunity to enjoy all four seasons. Whether it is during the busy holiday season or in the wintry start...
Do you get the urge to upgrade your home about as often as you get a notification on your smartphone that it is time to upgrade its operating system? Many homeowners buy a home with full intent o...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/when-is-the-right-time-to-sell-your-house/
We may only be nearing the end of the first month of the year, but something is becoming pretty obvious; 2017 is going to be your year - to buy a home, that is! If you've got plans to purchase a ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/want-to-buy-a-home-in-2017-do-these-five-things-now/
DIY lovers, unite! March is National Craft Month; so, you know what that means? All month long, you've got the perfect excuse to corral your friends and get creative! With spring cleaning season ...
There is a lot of excitement that goes along with moving into a new home. However, long days of packing and moving day, in particular, probably don't rank high on the list of things that people l...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/five-hacks-to-help-pack-for-your-next-move/
At this point in the month, many of us may be questioning the wintry forecast that Punxsutawney's prognosticating groundhog predicted just a few weeks ago. However, if you've lived in the Pittsbu...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/three-eco-friendly-ways-to-de-ice-this-winter/
We recently kicked off a money-saving challenge that promises to help anyone - on any budget - save a few bucks in a year's time. Of course, one of the first steps in saving money is knowing when...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/monthly-bills-you-will-have-as-a-homeowner/
Talk to anyone who has ever bought a home and they'll surely say, "I wish I would have known " about some part of their home-purchasing process. From things buyers wish they would have looked for...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/five-lessons-first-time-home-buyers-need-to-learn/
We don't know about you; but, we're still going gaga over that epic Super bowl Sunday comeback (see what we did there?!) and the fact that football season has come to a close for another year. Al...
Potential home buyers with bad credit could be feeling a bit like an underdog that is losing the big game of homeownership as they head into the final quarter of play. However, though bad credit ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-you-can-buy-a-home-without-great-credit/
We may be preparing to say goodbye to January, but before we write-off (no tax season pun intended!) the first month of 2017, let's make sure we're getting a solid start to this New Year of homeo...
We recently offered people who are planning to buy a home this year a little advice on what they can do to prepare for that big purchase. High-ranking on that list was searching for and interview...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/eight-traits-that-signal-real-estate-success/
If your "New Year, new you" plan includes moving out on your own, you may have a few concerns as you plan to spread your wings. Unless you've been saving funds and working on your finances for th...
For many homeowners, gone are the days of settling into one home for the long haul. Instead, today's homeowners upsize, downsize and relocate to adapt to life's changing needs. But, making the de...
Just last week, we shared our design trend forecast for the New Year. Of course, with every design trend that comes in, one or more must also go out. So, while you're selecting the hot styles you...
Now that the New Year has been sufficiently "rung in," it's time to get down to the business of those pesky resolutions. While you already may have bailed on your lofty diet or exercise plans for...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/10-money-mistakes-you-cant-afford-to-make-this-year/
The New Year is upon us and for some homeowners resolving to sell their homes in 2017 is on their to-do list. Much like all that is involved in planning for holiday festivities, there is quite a ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/five-tips-for-a-successful-home-sale-in-2017/
As we kick off 2017, your mind is bound to be churning with possible resolutions. If remodeling your home in the New Year tops your list of resolutions, you've undoubtedly considered investing in...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/do-smart-home-systems-make-financial-sense-for-you/
The beginning of the year is always a great time to adopt the "out with the old, in with the new" mentality for everything from barely-worn clothes to rarely-used toys to, even, rapidly-fading ho...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/top-10-home-trends-in-2017/
Talk about totally derailing your New Year's resolution before you even get started! Tomorrow is National Spaghetti Day! How can you not indulge in those oh-so-crave-worthy carbs?! Now, Pittsburg...
Though many of us still are enjoying the holiday season with family and friends, we know there is a not-so-festive thought looming in your minds cleaning up all of the holiday decor you so dilige...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/five-holiday-storage-ideas-for-undecking-the-halls/
If you're a homeowner or renter who is hosting the holidays this season, you may be feeling a little anxiety about welcoming your guests while keeping your home in order. But, have no fear; it ca...
Gift-giving season is in full effect, but what happens when you're trying to stay focused on your financial goals instead of overspending around the holidays? Of course, you want to get your love...
OK, homeowner, you knew this time was coming. It's your turn to host the holidays! So, in addition to immaculately decking your halls and making sure you've picked the perfect gifts for everyone ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/apps-homeowners-need-for-the-holidays/
The season for cozying up around a warm fireplace has arrived. But, if you bought a home with a wood-burning fireplace earlier this year, you may be wondering how to keep your fire safely burning...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/what-you-need-to-know-about-your-fireplace/
If you haven't already decked your halls for the holiday season, you may be planning to get a little festive right about now. And, why not? So far this season, the weather has been pretty mild; s...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-to-keep-utility-bills-low-during-the-holidays/
Do the upcoming ho-ho-holidays have you thinking "huh-huh-humbug" when it comes to your bank account? For a multitude of reasons, many of us would like to cut down on excessive holiday spending d...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/shop-smart-eight-easy-ways-to-cut-holiday-spending/
OK, already! We know 'tis the season for hanging holiday lights, stringing garland and possibly even putting up that inflatable snowman that your children can't seem to get enough of. Before you ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/5-ways-to-prep-your-yard-for-the-winter/
Whether you're building a home, you've just moved into a new home or your home is in need of a few upgrades, the year's busiest shopping season could be your ticket to striking a great deal on ap...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/5-home-deals-to-look-for-on-black-friday/
If you talk to anyone who owns a home, they may tell you that the most important survival skill you can have as a homeowner is simply a sense of humor. After all, what else can you do after your ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/10-survival-skills-that-homeowners-need-/
The election is over and if you've stepped into any retail store post-Halloween, you may think that the holidays already have arrived. So, while political thoughts have ended and a few holly joll...
"If you love something, let it go. If it comes back to you, it is yours forever " While that thought may be a bit of a deep thought for your morning cup of coffee, such is the feeling that many b...
Well, it's Election Day. And, you've got two perfectly viable options in front of you. One may be a big change from what you're used to. The other may be a bit more comfortable, but you may have ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/should-you-elect-to-buy-or-rent-your-next-home/
This month, we'll pause to celebrate and reflect on all of the sacrifices of our nation's veterans and the way they have selflessly served to protect the freedoms we enjoy on a daily basis. While...
Pittsburgh may be known for pierogis and French fry and coleslaw topped sandwiches, but the pizza you can find in the 'burgh is some of the best around! Thick crust, thin crust, cold cheese and f...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/best-pizza-in-pittsburgh/
Home staging has become something of a minor craze for real estate professionals in the past few years, and the actual science behind how best to set up a home for an open house seems to be chang...
Maybe it's the way you no longer fit so comfortably into the twin bed that nestled you tightly throughout your childhood. Maybe it's because you're tired of explaining to your parents where you'v...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-to-budget-living-on-your-own/
When it comes to Pittsburgh real estate, we pride ourselves on knowing the best of what's available in and around the city; so, when it comes to Halloween and the best of the best "haunted" homes...
It sounds so whimsical, right? You find an older, classically-designed home and with just a few tweaks, you turn it into the home of your dreams! Unfortunately, if you're considering buying a fix...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/what-to-look-for-when-buying-a-fixer-upper/
From crisp, cooler mornings and evenings to the aromas of hot apple cider and pumpkin-spiced goodies all around, fall has arrived! With this bright and beautiful season comes an awesome time for ...
So, maybe you're not exactly ready to jump right into the tiny house movement and buy a micro home. But, you've got to admit, the people who choose to live simply in a small home may not have suc...
Hopes, dreams, goals you talk to your spouse or significant other about everything, right? So, why does it seem so difficult to get into a discussion about your finances? If one of your #relation...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/financial-conversation-tips-for-couples/
It's fall y'all! There, we've said it and we promise it won't happen again. In the spirit of the autumn season, it is time to add a little pumpkin spice to your home's decor. However, just like s...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/five-budget-friendly-fall-decor-ideas/
Everyone knows that curb appeal is critical for making a great first impression. And Sellers are often most aware of the need to spruce up their curb appeal when trying to attract buyers. There's...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/low-cost-ways-to-improve-your-curb-appeal/
At the start of the fall season, leaves are turning bright hues of orange, red and yellow. With all of these beautiful changes, perhaps you're thinking of turning over a new leaf yourself. After ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/10-ways-youre-losing-money/
So, you've hired a real estate agent and listed your home for sale; you're confident you set the right price and have properly marketed the home to targeted buyers; you've even got some showings ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/10-things-home-buyers-dont-want-to-see/
On September 18 the world celebrated National Burger Day, but we know that one day isn't nearly long enough to get our burger fill! That's why we put together a list of our favorite burgers in Pi...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/best-burgers-in-pittsburgh/
In the spirit of the fall football season, today we're taking a few pages out of the playbooks of two opposing teams that come from the real estate industry. Yep, you guessed it; we're talking ab...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/what-real-estate-agents-do-for-buyers-sellers/
Why is it that you always seem to find out that you have less-than-stellar credit whenever you need better credit the most? You know, like when you're applying for a mortgage or trying to rent an...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/ways-to-improve-your-credit-score/
It's back-to-school season for students across the country, but what about the empty nesters that may be left behind? Many Americans that have reached or are nearing retirement may be faced with ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/time-to-evaluate-retirement-living-options/
After the long holiday weekend, many American workers may be having a hard time easing back into the work week. But, the satisfied group of successful real estate agents that enjoys determining t...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/ten-habits-of-successful-real-estate-agents/
As college students head back to campus, they've likely got football games, upcoming exams and possibly even their favorite local pizza places on their minds. But, if they're moving back into an ...
It's every homeowner's worst nightmare - you have a pot over the stove and turn the switch to find your burner won't light. It's the same idea with your refrigerator. No one wants to swing open t...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/ways-to-fix-your-broken-appliances/
Do you subscribe to some of those fancy home decor magazines or even simply receive Pottery Barn and Restoration Hardware catalogs in the mail? It is easy to get wrapped up in the awesome designs...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/home-items-that-arent-worth-the-splurge/
Move-in ready. No matter what interior and exterior features today's home buyers are looking for, you can pretty much bet that those three little words appeal to every buyer out there. Who doesn'...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/ten-things-to-do-before-selling-your-home/
Sometimes, it can be hard to admit that we need some help - particularly when admitting that fact may cost us some money. But, for the group of homeowners who not only own a primary residence, bu...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/five-reasons-why-you-need-a-property-manager/
It's pretty hard not to get excited about remodeling your home. Whether you're working in the bathroom, kitchen, office or another area, who doesn't love finding a way to make their space feel li...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/home-remodeling-tips-that-dont-go-out-of-style/
He is widely known as one of the world's most successful investors and certainly is one of the richest people in the world. He also happens to be Chairman and CEO of our namesake, Berkshire Hatha...
Admittedly, home ownership can be difficult, so many homeowners are constantly in search of ways to make their lives simpler, particularly when it comes to home maintenance, cleaning and other ho...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/call-me-maybe-15-contacts-all-homeowners-must-keep/
You've heard all the hype that goes along with buying a new home and if you've recently bought one, you've probably experienced that excitement, too. But, once you're settled in, home ownership c...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/home-owners-simplify-your-life-with-these-10-tips/
Moving day don't you just love it and loathe it all at the same time? On one hand, it's the start of life in your brand new home. Ah-mazing, right?! On the other hand, it can be a physically-and-...
Ooh, those curtains! And, did you see the plantation blinds?! They come with the house, right? Oh, they better come with the house! During the home sale process, home fixtures like curtains and r...
The home-buying process is not always easy and for first-time buyers, it can be downright difficult. Recently, we polled a few Pittsburgh area homeowners to get their perspectives on that dauntin...
Last week, movie buffs (or Biff's) around the world celebrated Back to the Future Day. You know, October 21, 2015, that day when Marty McFly traveled to the future with Dr. Emmett Brown to correc...
We've got to let you in a little something that's been bugging us ever since the weather started to heat up this summer. It's bugs creepy, crawly, winged or without, we're taking serious issue wi...
Ah, sweet summer the season of love. The season where many twenty-somethings may be saying their "I dos." What could be more blissful? How about a happily ever after that's filled with financial ...
Now that we're all over the initial joy that we felt when the calendar finally reached the first day of spring, it is time to get down to the often dirty business of spring cleaning our homes. Ye...
We've made it to March and with the exception of a few straggling snow flurries, here's hoping that spring's arrival is upon us! While everyone may be excited for the warmer weather, bluer skies ...
When you're going through the closing process and planning to move into a new home, there are countless things that need to be done. You've got to worry about inspections, walk-throughs and packi...
Without a doubt, building a house is an exciting experience, full of options. When you choose to build a home, instead of buying one that someone has already lived in, you have a clean palette wi...
Summer may be on its way out the door, but let's not forget about those get-fit programs we started when the weather started warming up. And, no, we're not talking about daily workout regimens or...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/5-signs-youre-putting-your-financial-fitness-first/
The summer home selling season has arrived and with it, there will be a multitude of new homes listed for buyers to browse. Oh no! What does that mean for sellers?! It's time to put your game fac...
Looking to buy or sell a home? If so, you've probably heard a lot about different types of real estate agents. Guess what? What you've heard may or may not be true. No one may like to be typecast...
If winter's cold has got you down and you're battling a bad case of cabin fever, there is nothing like a little home improvement project to cure that drab cold weather disease. And, we all know t...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-to-create-cool-escapes-in-your-kids-rooms/
Happy Halloween, everyone! As you're preparing to welcome the neighborhood ghosts, goblins and other ghoulish characters that may come trick-or-treating tonight, we're showcasing some of the most...
Have you heard the news? Restaurant guide, Zagat, named Pittsburgh its Top Food City of 2015. The article states, "While hefty Italian bread sandwiches from Primanti Bros. remain musts on the Pit...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/our-favorite-restaurants-in-pittsburgh/
Fall is a great time to squeeze in some family fun! Fortunately, there are lots of local places that feature pumpkin picking, hay rides, fresh apple cider and everything else that makes fall so f...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/10-fall-fests-in-pittsburgh-that-you-must-check-out/
With Mother's Day fast approaching this Sunday, it is time to formally give our thanks to those women whose advice, care and constant clean-up efforts have forever impacted our lives. Whether it ...
You've made the decision to buy your first home. First of all, congratulations! That's an awesome accomplishment; and, an awesome responsibility. So, if you haven't already, it's time to make sur...
Football season has arrived; school's been back in session for weeks now; and, Starbucks is, again, serving that oh-so-delicious pumpkin spice latte. These surefire signs can mean only one thing ...
Ghouls, goblins, and ghosts oh my! If you have yet to get your fill of all the spooky and scary things October is known for, we've got good news for you there's still time! Spend the next two wee...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/20-of-the-best-halloween-attractions-in-pittsburgh/
Eerie, spooky and creepy are just some of the words that are widely used to describe events and outings during this hauntingly fun time of year. But, once Halloween is over, are they words you wa...
It may still be cold outside, but if you're yearning for an early spring, there's nothing like freshening up your interior spaces in preparation for open-window weather. Home-made cleaning soluti...
Barbie has a dream house, so, why can't we all? Before we even begin to list the reasons, let's also remember that Barbie's held every career title from veterinarian to rock star and she's also h...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/get-out-of-your-dreams-and-into-your-home/
While there has been much hubbub about the millennials' potential to change the housing market, it is retiring baby boomers who are in control right now. If your parents are among the people look...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-to-help-your-retiring-parents-buy-a-house/
If you own a home, maybe you haven't been paying too much attention to the low lending rates that are currently - and have consistently - been offered by banks and mortgage lenders across the nat...
If you have any social media presence whatsoever, you've been exposed to one of those challenge groups. You know the kind. "I need X number of people who want to look good, feel even better and, ...
It's the little things in life, right? That feeling you get when you're in a rush to take out the garbage because you already can hear your trash removal service coming down the street. Or the um...
In this day and age, it sometimes seems like everyone's an expert; and, that can be the case when it comes to first-time homebuyers as well. Unfortunately, we all know what happens when you assum...
The heat of the summer selling season is pouring down. You know you've heard about it the neighbors up the street whose home was under contract in merely five days even your friend across town wh...
It is summer vacation for most college students around the country and that may mean anything and everything from summer internships to impulse road trips. And, why not?! Many working professiona...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/headed-to-college-heres-how-you-can-save-money/
So, you want to be a homeowner, but don't think you're financially ready? Don't feel helpless! Much like you can rent-to-own cars, furniture and appliances, you actually can rent-to-own a home! O...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/what-is-rent-to-own/
With all of the Stanley Cup excitement surrounding the city of Pittsburgh over the last few weeks, a lot of hockey fans have been showing an extra interest in our great city. But, you don't have ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/10-things-to-do-in-pittsburgh-this-summer/
Before you leave on vacation, make sure that your house is prepared for your absence. Taking a vacation is the perfect way to relax and get away from the problems of daily life. But you may be in...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/preparing-your-home-for-vacation/
So, maybe you didn't notice it when you first toured through your new home; after all, you were enamored with the place and already envisioning where you would put all of your belongings, not to ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-to-get-bad-odors-out-of-your-new-home/
Lately, we've been talking a lot about the summer home-selling season. Of course, you can't have any home-selling season without home buyers, right?! But, how do you buy a home? For first-time ho...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/a-10-step-guide-on-how-to-buy-a-house/
With schools wrapping up for the year, the summer home-selling season is in full effect. Families that are planning a move are getting in gear to find their new home and settle in before classes ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/what-is-my-home-worth/
Students around the country may be rejoicing as classes close for the summer, but when it comes to finances, the work never seems to end for adults. In fact, we're even given a report card when i...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/whats-a-good-credit-score/
For homebuyers, a drive or walk down the street is like a fashionista's stroll along Fifth Avenue - it's all about the window shopping. What sort of display will catch the buyer's eye? Homeowners...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/3-affordable-curb-appeal-improvements/
Today is one of those days we look forward to all year long. Yep, you guessed it it's National Donut Day! For one day (ahem, today) you can let go of your willpower and indulge in what just may b...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/best-donuts-in-pittsburgh/
By now, you've probably heard about the tiny house movement that's sweeping the nation. You know, living simply in a small home. And, by small, we're talking around 500 square feet or less. Thoug...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/tiny-houses-is-less-really-more/
We often tout the many perks of living in Pittsburgh and since it's National Bike Month, we're going to toot our horn about some of the best bike trails in and around the city, too. Because, in a...
First comes love, then comes marriage then comes paying for a wedding and saving for a home all at the same time. Wait, is that not how the old playground song goes? For a lot of newly-engaged co...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-to-save-money-for-a-wedding-and-a-home/
In the past few years, the term "short sale" has become common language in many real estate markets. So, what is a short sale? By definition, a short sale is the sale of a home for less than the ...
Mortgage Mistakes that Homebuyers Should Avoid If you're currently searching for a new home or even considering looking for a new home anytime in the near future, applying for a mortgage should b...
For the woman who has always been there for you, this Sunday is the perfect time to show her how much you love and appreciate everything that she does. That's right, Sunday May 11, is Mother's Da...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/celebrate-mothers-day-in-pittsburgh/
It's easy to let Halloween slide by without sprucing up your home with some seasonal spooky decor. Here are a few easy tips to create a more original feel around your home when it comes to decora...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/festive-frightening-3-unique-halloween-decor-ideas/
In a world that is becoming more and more DIY, many people who are looking to buy or sell a home are now considering doing it all by themselves. Sounds great, right? If you're interested in buyin...
Are you less than impressed with your rental? Wish you could really make your landlord's house feel like your "home?" You're in luck! There are actually many reasonable ways that renters can make...
You've already had the discussion about whether buying or renting a home would be best for you and after weighing the options and your current financial situation renting won! Next, it's time for...
Too often, home sellers feel compelled to hide their laundry room, rushing to close the door during a showing or even putting up a "Do Not Enter" sign. Change this habit by making your laundry ro...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/5-ways-to-make-your-laundry-room-a-selling-feature/
The Memorial Day weekend has unofficially kicked off the start of summer, so you know what that means the home selling season is in full swing! With an influx of available homes hitting the marke...
Are you the one always waiting until the last minute to do well, everything? Typically, it's probably no big deal. Sure, you can hit up Target for just about anything you need before a party, sch...
When you're looking to sell your home, you may consider a For Sale By Owner or FSBO. And, why not? It seems like a great idea you put that "For Sale" sign out in front of your yard, notify your F...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/thinking-fsbo-why-thats-a-no-no/
When springtime comes around it brings with it the sort of weather that makes you want to sit outside and enjoy the long, warm nights. Homeowners can make this experience even better, and perhaps...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/5-patio-design-ideas-for-this-spring/
Instead of sending your mom the traditional bouquet of flowers this Sunday, why not consider showing her a taste of all the great city of Pittsburgh has to offer for Mother's Day. And, we're not ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/10-fun-ways-to-make-moms-day-the-pittsburgh-way/
As much as you may (or may not) love your neighbors and all of their furry, four-legged family members, you probably didn't buy your home and property to share with them. Of course, you enjoy the...
If you're planning to buy a home and you're going to be applying for a mortgage, you've probably been advised to pay more attention to your credit score. But, once you find out what your credit s...
Earth Day is today and you don't have to install expensive solar panels on your home or buy the most high-end, energy-efficient appliances to do your part to protect the environment. Instead, the...
From the food scene to the sports teams to the career opportunities and more, there is no shortage of reasons to make "living in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania" one of your future #GOALS. Since it's pr...
Now that the first quarter of the year and tax day is behind us, it is time to take a look at those financial resolutions we set forth for the year. But, instead of harping on what we have or hav...
In the real estate world, there is a lot of discussion about just how beneficial holding an open house can be for sellers, buyers and even real estate agents. Frankly, they don't always end with ...
Whether you're buying your first home or you've bought and sold several homes, there are just some thoughts that run through the minds of home buyers everywhere. From scoping out the best mortgag...
We've all seen those home makeover shows where a team of professional enters a home, ushers the family away for a few days and voila - transforms a room, basement or backyard into the envy of eve...
If you're preparing for a move, you've likely got a ton on your mind selling your home, packing your belongings, saying goodbyes and getting ready to start all over somewhere new. Now, throw kids...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/springing-a-move-on-your-kids-prepare-them-first/
April Fools' Day is just around the corner and there already are a lot of common misconceptions about some things in the real estate world. We're just going to go ahead and give you a little advi...
In addition to the longer days, warmer weather and overall freshness that the spring season brings, this time of year also ushers in what is typically one of the busiest times in the real estate ...
The leaves have fallen, and winter is here. It's time to ensure that your home will keep everyone safe and warm all winter long. Even if your furnace is in fine working order, it should be servic...
We recently celebrated Patrick's Day, but if you're a homeowner, you may not need the luck of the Irish when you're submitting your income taxes this year. Homeowners make their own luck when the...
Are you a renter who often finds yourself day-dreaming about the moment when you'll finally be able to buy your own home? Well, snap out of it and start living that dream while you're renting! Th...
Well, we can finally say it spring is on the horizon! And, you know what that means, the home-buying and moving season is about to start blossoming, too! How can home buyers plant their seeds for...
The spring buying season is underway, and as it progresses curb appeal will emerge from its winter hibernation as a significant factor in luring potential buyers to their ideal property. Curb app...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/start-planning-your-spring-curb-appeal-projects/
Too busy for home projects? We totally understand! With so many things going on, it's easy to push your home improvement projects to the side. To allow everyone to check off at least one item on ...
Ok, future homeowners, you didn't need that gregarious groundhog to tell you that the spring home-buying season is just around the corner, right?! But, while you may not have needed a rodent to p...
Are you planning to take the title of "proud homeowner" this year? If so, you've likely opted to huddle around and make a game plan for your overall financial picture. If you're not happy with th...
OK, we're just going to be frank here from the start. When you move into a new home, after you've unpacked every last box of out-of-season clothes, family "heirlooms" you can't bring yourself to ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/10-housewarming-gifts-that-take-no-warming-up-to/
These days, millennials are proving themselves as a force to be reckoned with. Just take a look at the way 20-somethings and 30-somethings are impacting the workforce, the upcoming presidential e...
Were you looking for "the one" this Valentine's Day? You know, someone who will be attentive to your wants and needs, always openly communicate with you and be there for you whenever you call? Ye...
Remember a couple months ago when you thought all of those white flurries were just beautifully showcasing the magic of the holiday season? Well, now that the holiday magic has passed and the sno...
2016 is full of new home trends that are just begging to be tackled this year. Take a look at our very non-traditional list of New Year's resolutions for your home in 2016: Soft Tones: Bold color...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/10-home-design-trends-for-2016/
Did things like finishing the basement, completing your home office or upgrading a bathroom make your 2016 renovation "to do" list? If these are some of the home renovations on your resolutions l...
Selling a home right after the holiday season and right in the middle of tax season may not be on your bucket list for 2016. But, if you're in the midst of the home sale process during the winter...
Hello it's me. Wait a minute no, not her. Instead, it's your big-spending, no-saving, poor money-managing bad side! And, I'm here with some completely rotten financial advice for you. You know, s...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/bad-money-management-advice-to-avoid-at-all-costs/
Homeowners and sellers who hope to upgrade their kitchens should bear in mind design trends for 2016. The kitchen is a storage space, cooking area and a gathering place. Its myriad purposes make ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/which-kitchen-design-elements-are-best-for-buyers/
Much of the east coast is in clean-up mode after bearing the tremendous blow that Mother Nature delivered with #blizzard2016. Here in the real estate world, we're all like "let's use that clean-u...
Any homebuyer who has been browsing potential homes in planned single-family-home communities, condominiums or townhomes has likely come across three little letters that have brought on a bit of ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/dont-understand-an-hoa-heres-some-h-e-l-p/
In today's world, it is more and more popular to take the DIY route from watching a YouTube video to learn how to change the oil in your car to checking out the latest Pinterest trends to make yo...
Tax season has arrived! So, while you're waiting for your W-2 to arrive and either lamenting or complimenting last year's tax decisions, it's time to start thinking about the future. And, we're n...
With the first full week of 2016 nearly under our belts, we can all breathe a sigh of relief that we've almost made it through this seemingly never-ending week that follows the holidays. Sure, yo...
In many parts of the country, keeping homes warm will be a priority in the coming months as winter brings its frost, wind, snow and low temperatures. Luckily, maintaining a warm house isn't alway...
New year, new you. Isn't that the high hope that so many of us set during this time of year? Whether your focus is on improving your fitness, finances or even flirting in 2016, if you've already ...
No plans for New Year's Eve? No worries! Here are a few New Year's Eve parties in Pittsburgh that you can still get tickets to. 1. Bahama Breeze- Island Junkanoo New Year's Bash What: Ring in the...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/10-new-year-eve-parties-in-pittsburgh/
Now that one of the month's major holidays has past, homeowners across the country may be in major clean-up mode. They're likely finding wrapping paper and cookie crumbs in parts of their home th...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/10-things-only-a-homeowner-can-understand/
Since the holiday season is always full of sales, it may be the perfect time for homeowners to add their own homes to their gift-giving lists. From tech-savvy tools to trendy decor, there's bound...
As the New Year approaches, everyone starts talking about resolutions and those other little housekeeping tasks that we always mean to get to, but somehow never do. No, we're not talking about sp...
With less than 10 days til Christmas, many holiday shoppers may be in a frenzy, trying to complete their wish lists with the little time they have left. For many, that can mean paying a premium p...
It should go without saying that purchasing a home is one of the largest, if not - the largest, purchase that a person will ever make. So, if you decide to build your own home, it is imperative t...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/10-must-ask-questions-for-your-home-builder/
Life in a staged home may seem perfect to some, but there is plenty of work that goes into maintaining a perfect house. With each room comes a set of responsibilities that ultimately contribute t...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-to-live-in-a-staged-home/
Tis the season to be winterizing your home. Luckily, Mother Nature has been pretty gentle on most of us so far this holiday season. So, if you haven't prepped your home for that perpetual snowbal...
Around the holidays, it can be easy to go a little crazy buying gifts for the people you care about. But, with tax season looming and future financial goals like buying a home, taking a vacation ...
Maybe you like to do your holiday shopping on Black Friday or Cyber Monday; maybe you've had your holiday shopping done for months; or, maybe you prefer to wait until the last minute. No matter w...
While you're getting ready to pass the turkey, mashed potatoes and Grandma's famous pumpkin pie this Thanksgiving, you may also be devising a plan on how you can get her to disclose that secret r...
Winter is fast approaching, which for many homeowners means the annual stretch of the year characterized by higher monthly energy bills as the heat is turned up. However, it is possible to cut in...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/4-tips-for-saving-money-at-home/
Denial. It's a word that nobody wants to face. Not in a relationship; not around the holidays; and, in this instance, certainly not when they're applying for a mortgage. Nowadays, most buyers see...
Just days ago, we encouraged potential home buyers to get into the holiday spirit by doing a little home shopping this season. For sellers, that's great news; although selling a home during the h...
'Tis the season to be buying a home?! While those may not be the exact lyrics to a popular holiday tune, if you've been considering a home purchase, you could be fa-la-la-la-la-la-la-la-losing ou...
For many buyers and sellers in today's real estate market, things like career changes, building a family or retirement are clear-cut reasons that it may be time to move. But, for some long-time m...
You've probably heard it from your parents before; there is a famous song by the same title; heck, you've likely heard it from your significant other before, too you can't always get what you wan...
If you've walked down the aisles of Walmart, Target or your local grocery store in the last week, you've likely already been bombarded with holiday hoopla. Yes, it seems that no sooner did we tur...
It's hard to have a conversation in the real estate world that doesn't involve finances. Whether you're planning to buy, sell or rent a home, your financial picture plays an integral role. So, si...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/itll-cost-ya-10-bad-habits-that-can-break-the-bank-/
All throughout the Halloween season, those of us who love a good scare flock to haunted happenings wherever we can find them. From houses to hayrides, there's just something delightful about feel...
Chances are you have a friend, relative, coworker, or maybe even yourself who has recently moved into a new home. While housewarming parties aren't as popular as they used to be, giving a housewa...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/6-house-warming-gifts-just-for-pittsburghers/
The sweet mixture of love and the crisp autumn air The colorful, natural backdrop that Mother Nature provides What could be more beautiful than a fall wedding? How about a beautiful fall wedding ...
If you read the news, it may seem like first-time homebuyers have it tough - breaking into the real estate market is hard to do, after all. However, the challenges facing first-timers can feel li...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-to-buy-a-home-and-sell-a-home-at-the-same-time/
How many prospective home buyers do you know who are planning to pay cash for the full price of their new home? A common fact in home buying is that pretty much everyone finances a portion of the...
Recently, we talked about the physical things you can and cannot remove from a home when you're putting it up for sale. But, what about the emotional things? How do you detach those memories and ...
When it comes to selling a home, you've probably heard of staging - you know, tastefully filling a vacant room the way it was intended to be used so that prospective buyers easily can envision th...
Maybe you've recently graduated from college and just started your first "real" job. Maybe you've been out of college for years and already have moved up a few rungs on the professional ladder. D...
Are you single and ready to mingle? About buying a new home, that is! Don't laugh; many single men and women are choosing to enter the realms of home ownership on their own these days. After all,...
There is a lot of excitement that surrounds building a custom home. From touring through various models to watching your own dream home visions come to life during construction, so much is reward...
Though all of the flip flop-loving, heat-craving summer savorers out there may have tried to avoid it for as long as possible, fall has arrived! Today marks the first official day of the autumn s...
In the real estate world, the word "contingency" is pretty commonplace. But, for a first-time home buyer or seller, a contingent offer may be a bit confusing. Typically, contingencies are circums...
Arguments, disagreements, even confrontation? When a couple is selling a home, it is possible that they may face all three. However, we're not talking about the usual stressful situations that ca...
Between all of the packing and unpacking, loading and unloading, cleaning, decorating, organizing and every other little to-do that goes along with moving into a new home, one very important step...
A few weeks ago, we made some national headlines when we listed a Victorian home that was featured in the Academy Award-winning 1991 thriller, The Silence of the Lambs. In the film, the house was...
You don't have to be a first-time homebuyer to be confused about the many parts of the home sale process. It can be hard enough to gain mortgage pre-approval, find a home that meets your needs an...
Homework laying around soccer cleats or sweaty football gear scattered about and, all the wrong outfit options piled up all over the bedroom floor. Yep, the kids are back to school. As if that ex...
We all know that spring and summer are typically the hottest seasons of the year for the real estate market. However, this doesn't mean that deals can't be made during the fall and winter, especi...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/4-smart-ways-to-sell-your-house-this-fall/
It's not often that news outlets like The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal and Good Morning America or entertainment outlets like People Magazine, BuzzFeed and TMZ are calling about one of...
OK, college students after spending the summer working back in your hometown and living under your parents' roof again, you may be itching to get back to the freedom you have at college. But, let...
You may love to eat fine cuisine and decadent desserts, but have you tried to create them in your own kitchen? You may love to sing in the shower and you might actually sound alright, but have yo...
Well, we're just going to scrap the cutesy introduction and get right to it living paycheck to paycheck is a good thing. There, we said it. Now, before you stop reading altogether, allow us to ex...
Selling a home in a short amount of time with little to no hiccups is every seller's dream, right? Unfortunately, it is not every seller's reality; however, there are a few tips and tricks that m...
OK, summer procrastinators! There are four weekends left until Labor Day, which means there are four great opportunities for some small weekend home projects that can make a big impact on your in...
If a sailor's skies are predicting a move in your future, your boat could be rocking between selling your current home or turning it into a rental property. Yes, when you're moving up to a larger...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/this-summer-sell-away-sell-away-sell-away-or-rent/
While price, location and condition are naturally high on buyers' "must-have" lists, there are a number of other features that will help sell homes fast. These traits set a great home apart from ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/4-features-that-may-help-your-house-sell-quicker/
Spring and summer are often some of the best times to sell a home; so, if you've listed your home on the market or you're preparing to do so, it should be selling in no time, right? Well we wish ...
Back-to-school season is right around the corner and eager minds are preparing for their upcoming classes. In the spirit of the upcoming school year, we're doing our part to educate first-time ho...
It's ok; you can admit it. You've dabbled with the thought of leaving your career and starting over. Maybe that thought amounted to you packing up your office in true Jerry McGuire-fashion and ma...
You've accepted an offer on your home; you're nearly through the closing process; your boxes have long been packed and maybe you've even already moved into your new place. OK, sellers, it's time ...
A young family of three has just learned they'll soon be a family of four. An astute businessman has been working hard and has received a lofty promotion and a raise. A couple has just dropped th...
Four bedrooms an open floor plan and, a finished basement. His-and-her walk-in closets granite countertops and, a view of the city. A three-car garage . hardwood flooring and, a fenced-in backyar...
Just a few weeks ago, we reached out to help recent college graduates determine a few ways that they could start saving for their first big home purchase. Of course, whether home ownership is a s...
Now that we're in the heat of summer, it is time to take a look at everything we're doing to keep our homes safe during these sweltering months. After all, summertime is full of outdoor fun for k...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/todays-hot-summer-topic-home-safety/
Just after celebrating our nation's independence, it is time to take a look at one of those long-sought-after pieces of the American Dream home ownership! Once you receive that set of keys that w...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/5-new-homeowner-freedoms-no-one-should-celebrate/
As the hot summer buying and selling season really begins to sizzle, eager buyers are putting on their game faces, scouting for homes and making offers once they find one that's right for them. B...
Ah, new college grads sadly, those care-free days of cruising around campus, joining friends for daily social hours and, oh yeah, studying here and there, too, are over. But, as fun as your colle...
Home equity you've probably heard of it; if you own a home, you may even have some; but, do you really know what it is, how you can use it or what you probably shouldn't do with home equity? Toda...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/honing-in-on-home-equity-five-fast-faqs/
You've probably heard the phrase, "It's what's on the inside that counts" before. However, when it comes to real estate, it is often what is on the outside that is crucial toward drawing prospect...
Summer officially kicks off this Sunday and with it comes that one special day of the year when we celebrate all of the awesome dads out there. Yes, Father's Day is just days away; but, there is ...
Since Father's Day is coming up this weekend, we can't help but hearken that age-old spending advice that many dear old dads have been giving for years; you know, the "spend less, save more" talk...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/10-easy-steps-to-saving-money-every-day/
For many brands, Facebook advertising is an essential part of their overall marketing strategy. If done well, open houses, recruiting, and brand recognition can be maximized beyond what many peop...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/the-value-of-facebook-advertising/
When it comes to home renovation projects, the kitchen is one of the first areas where many homeowners start to create their upgrade wish list. For years, kitchen enhancements like tile or hardwo...
A house fire is something that no homeowner or renter ever wants to think about. But, fires are a major home disaster threat that can cause costly damage, injuries or even death. What can you do ...
June is Adopt-A-Cat Month, so now is a great time to rescue a furry feline friend. However, if you are considering adopting a cat or you already have one and you also happen to be selling your ho...
In this new digital age of real estate it has become expected that, as agents, we all become photographers. Just look around at real estate schools. Where once they offered classes on negotiation...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/the-eye-of-the-photographer/
Have you heard the latest great news about living in Pittsburgh? Our city's one of the most profitable places to flip a house! So, if you've been toying with the idea of buying low-priced propert...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/going-flipping-crazy-consider-these-10-things-first/
June's arrival can mean only one thing it's time for some serious summer fun! And, when it comes to a happening city for summer, Pittsburgh's the place to be. Sure, Pittsburgh's got year-round fa...
As a landlord, one of your primary concerns, if not THE primary concern that you have, is finding good tenants, right? But, income property owners, have you considered what your tenants think of ...
Remember when you were in elementary school and you brought home that list of spelling or vocabulary words that your mom or dad would have to go over with you each night? Believe it or not, when ...
By Darrin Friedman For many agents, text messaging has become the single most important communication method. After all, it's so easy! And phone conversations are so laborious, aren't they? So, w...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/negotiating-by-text-or-not/
We've all heard the phrase "April showers bring May flowers;" but, if this old idiom hasn't sprung up perky petals or wildly-growing greens in your garden yet this year, all is not lost! May is o...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/no-green-thumb-yes-even-you-can-grow-a-great-garden/
With the summer months ahead, many people are firming up their plans for a week or two getaway from the hustle and bustle of their professional lives. But, what if your summer escape could be mor...
Well, you probably remember what it felt like to buy your first home. But, what about selling your first home? For whatever reason, there is just never as much emphasis put on helping out first-t...
When you think about completing some home renovations, you probably think you'll be adding value to your home. Unfortunately, that's not always the case. Sure, many of today's buyers are looking ...
Mother's Day is quickly approaching (yes, it's this Sunday!) and if you've forgotten to pick out the perfect gift, your finances don't exactly fit the gift you have in mind or you're looking for ...
If you didn't make millions off of last weekend's big fight and you haven't yet hit the lottery, what is a person to do to join the ranks of those individuals who are able to call themselves self...
By Darrin Friedman For most real estate agents out there, having a strong manager is crucial to their success. After all, many would suggest that it is this relationship which most determines the...
With spring in full swing and new life blossoming all around us, some homeowners may be getting the itch to add some new things to their homes. As families continue to grow, some may be feeling a...
As of January 1, 2015, there are new regulations for heating and air conditioning equipment from the U.S. Department of Energy. What's new? The US Department of Energy (DoE) has defined higher en...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/the-2015-doe-seer-ratings-how-hms-helps/
Although we'll be saying goodbye to those April showers this week, you can never be too prepared for the unfortunate event of a flood at your home. Have you even considered the possibility that y...
By Darrin Friedman For the first time in eight years, I find myself in the process of selling my own home. I have one word for it: chaos. The stager has made my home look really fabulous in photo...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/living-like-a-guest-in-your-own-home/
Going through the home-buying or selling process? For buyers and sellers, alike, there may be nothing more exciting than when closing day finally arrives. However, for many, closing day also can ...
It's 2015 and gone are the days of collecting our aluminum cans, plastic bottles and cardboard boxes to lug them to the closest recycling center. Today, many of us enjoy curbside recycling pickup...
by Darrin Friedman Okay, so maybe you're a little busy right now. Perhaps so busy that the chaos of your day is beginning to seep into your nightmares. You're panicked you'll forget something, te...
The outdoor season is upon us and for people who are trying to sell their homes this spring and summer that means a little more than backyard BBQs, pool parties and front-porch sitting. If a home...
Since spring is finally in the air, that overall feeling of newness can be rather contagious! What does that mean for the real estate market? It means that all of that newness may inspire some of...
Today, there are many people who are able to enjoy working from home. Whether they're running their own business, catching up on work they've taken home from the office or simply paying monthly b...
By Darrin Friedman So here is a little history about me: I was an agent for 5 years and a manager for almost 7. In that time, there were things I was good at and things I was bad at. There were t...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/that-dirty-little-word-prospecting/
Timeless beauty, classic features and historical charm are all characteristics that may draw a buyer toward an older home during their home search. While those features all can be instant attract...
By Darrin Friedman If you're in the field of real estate and spend any time on Facebook at all, you no doubt receive plenty of friend requests. The requests tend to come in waves, often from peop...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/the-friending-dilemma---should-you-accept/
Spring just seems to have a way of making things blossom; buds begin to bloom, seeds begin to grow and even many creatures bring new life into the world in springtime. In perfect coordination wit...
Spring has arrived and yinz know what that means Pittsburghers are out in full effect, enjoying all that our great city has to offer! If you're relocating to the Steel City or even just planning ...
By Darrin Friedman Yesterday, while scrolling through my Facebook news feed, I saw something remarkable. A friend of mine was at a Chevy dealership buying (or so it seemed from the photos) a bran...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/facebook-is-not-real-life/
Ah, sweet springtime birds chirping, flowers blooming and housework looming. While you may at least be looking forward to two of those sure signs of spring, the third is inevitable; and, yes, we'...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/thinking-spring-your-annual-checklist-has-sprung/
Since this is typically one of the most active seasons in the real estate industry, it is time for sellers who are eager to move their homes to start seriously thinking about attracting the right...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/10-ways-to-scare-away-potential-home-buyers/
This St. Patrick's Day, you don't need to have the "luck o' the Irish" to put a little extra green in your pockets. As a homeowner, you can make your own luck with a few money-saving tricks aroun...
By Darrin Friedman Are you tired? You should be. After all, real estate professionals have an exhausting job. It's one where you never stop. Your phone rings and you answer it. Your device buzzes...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-to-avoid-self-destruction/
OK, homeowners, tax season is here and you've got just over a month to take advantage of this year's tax breaks. If you're feeling a little in the dark about what you may qualify for and you're r...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/a-guide-to-tax-time-breaks-for-homeowners/
Interior design has changed dramatically throughout the ages. From the first cavemen and women painting on the walls of their caves to chic modern styles, people have always sought to arrange the...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/home-decor-through-the-ages/
By Darrin Friedman Although many people do not seem to realize it, there is a line that can all too easily be crossed on social media between what is acceptable and what is inappropriate. Unfortu...
When it comes to first-time homebuyers, 2015 is likely to be known as "the year of the millennial." This group of young professionals is poised to pounce on the real estate market and for good re...
Whether you are a veteran agent with loads of experience, or a newly licensed agent in the first year of creating a business, marketing yourself is one of the pillars of a career in real estate. ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/your-marketing-efforts-arent-working-now-what/
When you put your home up for sale, you're ready to welcome in prospective buyers who have a serious interest in making a purchase. Unfortunately, potential buyers are not the only people who may...
By Darrin Friedman Every once in a while I go "app crazy," searching techie web pages for lists of the most highly rated applications for tablets and smartphones. I seek out those apps that every...
You celebrated your love with your sweetheart earlier this month and today, on National Love Your Pet Day, we celebrate our love for our fluffy, furry, feathered or other fabulous pets. Since thi...
A selfie showing off some wild weekend escapades a quick comment about an epically bad day at work #worstjobever even some self-implicating hindsight about a recent impromptu pick-me-up spending ...
We're warming up to one of the busiest times of the year in the real estate industry. So, if you're on the fence about whether or not you should continue to rent your home or if now is the right ...
There's admiring from afar. There's love at first sight. There's years of spending time in the wrong relationship before meeting your dream. There's falling in love outside of your type. There's ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/looking-for-love-in-all-the-wrong-places-/
By Darrin Friedman Choosing the right real estate agent for yourself can be a somewhat confusing experience. After all, there are choices everywhere! From your aunt who has been in the business s...
Thanks to the selfie and those handy selfie sticks, we really no longer need anyone to take a picture for us. Thanks to social media sites like Pinterest, we really no longer need to buy many cra...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/dont-put-your-selfie-at-a-disadvantage/
When you're preparing to purchase a new home, your life is full of excitement, some stress and a laundry list of tasks to complete, like packing, completing inspections and wrapping up life in yo...
With interest rates hovering around historic lows, the main barrier to entry into the homeownership market is the cost of making a down payment. While saving for a down payment is still important...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/overlooked-sources-of-down-payment-assistance/
By Darrin Friedman Tell the truth. You hate your business plan. No, better yet, you loathe it with the same kind of pure hatred with which Grumpy Cat hates, well, everything. But why? Well, for m...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/that-funky-little-thing-called-a-business-plan/
Remember that warm, festive feeling you had when you saw that pristine, white snow falling during the holiday season? Remember how quickly that feeling faded as soon as the calendar read January ...
By Darrin Friedman Regardless of what point an agent is in their career they are confronted with a simple fact: they are their brand. Whether they realize it or not, they are a product in a marke...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/building-a-brand-that-matters-/
Now that the holidays are over and we're into 2015, it is time to begin keeping all of those resolutions that you set for the new year. Maybe you've already put your "exercise more, eat less" pla...
By Darrin Friedman For many agents in the real estate industry, there comes a time when they must answer one fundamental question: does teaming with one or more other agents benefit me, or should...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/to-team-or-not-to-team-that-is-the-question/
In many markets across the nation, the foreclosure rate is dropping rapidly, which is a great sign for the real estate industry and the economy in general. While that certainly is welcome news, t...
By Darrin Friedman You've been searching for weeks or even months, trying to find the home that fulfills all your dreams -- the place where you can imagine your children (or future children) play...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/cold-feet-dont-worry-its-a-common-ailment/
The new year is in full swing, but where are your resolutions? Often times, the initial excitement and ambition that we put toward our personal goals each year quickly dwindle once we get back in...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/tips-for-happy-home-ownership/
By Darrin Friedman Over the past couple of years, those on the more innovative end of the real estate industry spectrum have become fans of "hyperlocalism" -- the practice of marketing oneself as...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/does-hyperlocalism-help-or-hurt-our-business/
Buying your first house is a serious financial and emotional decision, so first-time buyers should be sure they are ready before taking the leap. There are advantages to both buying and renting, ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/4-signs-youre-ready-to-buy-your-first-house/
If you've decided that 2015 is going to be your year for home ownership, congratulations! Buying a new home is exhilarating! However, at times, it also can be stressful, confusing and frustrating...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/buyer-help-what-should-you-spend-on-a-new-home/
By Darrin Friedman In most major metropolitan areas in recent years, the process of "gentrification" -- the revitalization and subsequent rehabitation of urban districts long forgotten -- has bec...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/is-gentrification-a-dirty-word/
Who's ready to honor that resolution kick up your home's style in 2015? We've scoured the best of the best when it comes to this year's decor trends and compiled a list of can-do colors, prints a...
Evernote: iOS & Android - FREE By far the best productivity tool on the market. Evernote saves everything -- from the photo of your receipt from lunch, to the pdf of the plane ticket you just bou...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/9-apps-every-agent-should-use/
Does your "New Year, new you" plan include buying your first home in 2015? If it doesn't, maybe it should; interest rates are low, the credit-lending process has become a little more navigable, h...
By Darrin Friedman In a well crafted article posted recently by Inman News, Teke Wiggin discussed the value that our industry places on the hired real estate coach. He supplied survey results to ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/choosing-the-right-business-coach/
Home buying and home selling articles by experts in the Pittsburgh real estate market
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/why-we-love-living-in-pittsburgh/
By Darrin Friedman You may have noticed that there are a whole lot of real estate agents out there in the world, any one of whom would be thrilled to have your business. From your mother's best f...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-to-interview-real-estate-agents-/
When temperatures drop and Old Man Winter comes knocking at your door, who doesn't need a little extra TLC? Well, your home is no different. That's right; rain, snow, sleet, hail they all can wre...
Christmas is just around the corner and you know what that means 'tis the season for hosting family and friends! Instead of feeling that holiday stress over making sure that your guests feel at-h...
By Darrin Friedman Being a REALTOR means dedicating oneself to customer service above all else. Serving our community, our clients, and our fellow practitioners is one of the major responsibiliti...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/the-virtues-of-accountable-service/
For so many people today, the holiday season 'tis the season to spend, spend and spend some more. Who doesn't love the joy that is found by giving someone a gift that ranked high on their holiday...
By: Darrin Friedman The National Association of REALTORS says that nearly 40% of home buyers are first-time home buyers, and three quarters of those first-timers are Millenials (those born betwee...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/the-next-generation-in-real-estate-/
As Halloween quickly approaches and we all prepare for the little ghosts and goblins that will be knocking on our doors in search of spooky holiday treats, we're taking a minute to examine the tr...
It's back to school time for many; but for millennials, who've either just graduated from college or who have been in the working world for only a few years, it may be time to do a little back-to...
By: Darrin Friedman Even 10 years ago, the average home buyer was not as young as buyers are today. According to NAR, nearly 40% of buyers are first-time home buyers, and Millennials (the generat...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/not-your-mothers-real-estate-search-/
Love the holiday season, but hate the cold? Can't wait to escape winter's chill and fly the coop to a warmer, likely more southern nest? OK, snowbirds, we feel you! But, while you're escaping awa...
Everyone knows that buying a home is cheaper and more financially sound than renting. Not only will your money be going into equity that you can use later, but often, the monthly payments on a lo...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/3-great-ways-to-save-up-for-a-down-payment/
Let's face it. We love DIY projects any time of the year. So, when the holiday season rolls around, we are more than excited to show off our DIY skills with some handmade, original and oh-so-cute...
As the weather outside becomes more and more frightful this winter, even the thought of listing your home on the market may give you the chills. But, don't be frozen with fear about selling your ...
When temperatures drop outside, the last thing you may want to do is turn down the heat inside your home. That is, at least until your utility bills start to rise. In reality, utility bills can b...
Buying a fixer-upper is an ideal way to make your budget stretch further, and the repairs that you complete will translate into higher property values when you're finished. Getting from here to t...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/budget-friendly-tips-for-remodeling-a-kitchen-/
Tis the season for cold weather fa-la-la-la-la-la-la-la-ugh! If you'd like to be singing a different tune this holiday season, take some action to prepare your home for the cold, wintry weather t...
The holiday season has arrived! It is a time for family, friends and fun in a city that we're so thankful to call "home." Yes, Pittsburgh, this one is for you. Before we pass the gravy, stuffing ...
After you stuff up on your turkey and stuffing, it's time for another holiday tradition shopping! The Friday after Thanksgiving, dubbed "Black Friday," is notorious for having some of the best sa...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/10-black-friday-deals-you-cant-miss/
Ah, the life hack those little tips and tricks that can make life easier or help you to be more productive. Well, we don't know who invented the term (or the convenient tricks), but we're forever...
'Tis the season for giving great gifts, right? So, let's not forget that happy new homeowner on your holiday shopping list! If this festive season has found you on the invite list to a housewarmi...
Many homeowners use the bi-annual time change as a reminder to change the batteries in their smoke alarms. The following are three more home maintenance items that you may want to add to this twi...
A new baby. A new pet. A new job. There are a number of reasons that families outgrow their homes. More closet space. A bigger backyard. Another bedroom. There are a number features that may be t...
Buying a new home this fall or winter? Planning for a move next spring? If you're in the market to buy a new home anytime in the next year or so, it is likely that you've already started to take ...
Before you get to the fun of house touring, a prospective home buyer needs to be pre-approved and fully understand what the pre-approval process entails. "Pre-approval is more involved than just ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/pre-approval-cheat-sheet/
So you think you're ready to dive into the housing market and purchase a new home. Congratulations! Now, what? It's time to start looking at what's available on the market, right? Actually, wrong...
So, you've made an offer on a new home; it's been accepted; and, you've been pre-approved for your mortgage. Congratulations! But, don't necessarily start the celebration just yet. In that waitin...
The green home craze is finally taking off in the U.S., and for good reason: Homes consume a lot of energy, which not only contributes to global warming, pollution and other unsustainable situati...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/is-it-too-soon-for-a-real-green-home/
Choosing the right color for a living room is essential. The color of a room helps to set its mood, and there are few rooms in which you will spend more time than your living room. Every home is ...
The holiday season is upon us, which means that the new year is right around the corner. For income property owners, that often means it is also lease renewal time and many rental property owners...
We're just days away from Halloween and if you're anything like us, you're ready for some spooky shenanigans and sweet treats! Each year, Halloween has a way of bringing out the inner child in al...
Oh, the joys of buying a new home there's spending countless hours researching where you want to live, scouring the MLS listings for homes you may be interested in that also fall into your price ...
If you're living in a home with an unfinished basement, it is likely that you use that space for one thing and one thing only storage. While the basement is a fantastic place to store the things ...
As the weather turns just a little colder and the leaves show off their bright red, orange and yellow hues, it becomes very clear that it is time to transition our personal style to accompany the...
As the weather cools down, homebuyers across the nation will start turning on the heat and bracing for the accompanying energy bill. Whether your home is heated using electricity, gas or oil, hea...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/5-ways-to-lower-your-heating-bills/
Fall is a season full of changes: leaf colors are changing; temperatures are changing; and, even seasonal sports and restaurant menus are changing. Amid all of these autumn-inspired changes, many...
Along with the return of those football and hockey seasons that we've been yearning for, the season of pumpkin-everything and spooky some things is upon us. What better way to celebrate fall than...
OK, renters if you just signed a lease this fall, you're likely unpacked by now and are probably already tiring of the often-drab, neutral surroundings that many renters find in their temporary h...
With a hot housing market in most of the country, many homeowners may be tossing around the idea of selling their homes. But, for many homeowners, selling a home that they've invested time, money...
In real estate, there are times when prospective buyers may think that signing an exclusive agreement with a particular real estate agent may limit their options. They may wonder "What if my agen...
Buying a home is probably one of the biggest purchases that most people will ever make. But, when you finally sign on that dotted line and pick up your set of keys as a new homeowner, you also sh...
When a seller is preparing to list their home, there are a few things that typically go without saying: 1. Sellers want to get the most money that they can for their home. 2. Sellers want to comp...
Keeping your appliances running is a necessity for busy homeowners, and few appliances endure more wear and tear than your clothes washer and dryer. To keep your washer and dryer workhorses in ti...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/laundry-room-maintenance-for-busy-homeowners/
Maintaining a refrigerator may seem like a job for the professionals, but there are actually a lot of things that you can do to help ensure that your appliance has a long and useful life. While y...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/tips-for-properly-maintaining-your-refrigerator/
After a long, hot summer, most of us welcome the crisp, fall air that is certainly on the horizon; and, that's not even mentioning the pumpkin lattes and football Sundays that undoubtedly accompa...
Pencils check. Notebooks check. Textbooks check. Sounds like a pretty standard back-to-school shopping list, right? But, what if that list was your very own back-to-class list? By this time of ye...
The summer moving season may be coming to a close; but, just because you've unpacked your boxes and you're settling in to your new home doesn't mean that your children are comfortable with their ...
Across the nation, August is known as Family Fun Month. In Western Pennsylvania, we are proud to offer a seemingly endless list of fun activities for families. From theme parks, museums and sport...
It's that time of year when many homeowners around the nation find themselves facing a new chapter in their lives the empty nest. Perhaps they've just dropped their youngest son or daughter off a...
It may only be early August, but before you know it the kids will be back to class and we'll be enjoying the fall football season again. If you're frantically searching your calendar and checking...
There's a little over a month left in the summer outdoor entertaining season, but you may already be focusing your attention on some indoor home projects that you would like to complete this fall...
If you are selling an older home, there is always a possibility that either your agent or a prospective buyer will ask that you upgrade an old appliance or two. And even if you are planning to st...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/are-tankless-water-heaters-worth-the-investment/
You've likely heard that there is a time and place for everything. The same phrase applies to selling a home and moving as well. Old home-buying practices might suggest that you buy one home and ...
Are you in the market for a new home, but you're not sure of exactly what you're looking for? Maybe you're ready to start browsing homes, but don't yet have a real estate agent and don't know whe...
You've done a little online searching and found a few homes that you're interested in. Think you're ready to buy a new home? Wouldn't it be great if it were that easy? If you're seriously ready t...
The school year is nearly complete and summer is almost upon us, which means that many landlords or investment property owners may be preparing their rental units for new tenants. Whether you are...
You don't have to be a first-time homebuyer to be blinded by love at first sight with a home that is. Any excited buyer can see a perfect layout, colors or other options, then fail to notice stru...
Many homeowners may readily admit that buying a home is an exciting, but often exhausting process. From the home search, to making an offer and possibly negotiating to having that offer accepted ...
It may be hard to believe, but we're about to reach the half way mark of 2014, which leads us to ask how are we coming along with those carefully-thought-out resolutions that we started off with ...
Many hardworking men and women long for the simplicity and relaxation that retirement can bring. However, for homeowners, retirement can also bring questions and concerns about maintaining the ho...
It goes without saying that buying a home is one of the biggest commitments that a person can make. So, for a first-time homebuyer, even the thought of home ownership can be daunting enough to sc...
If new home buyers were asked to rank their favorite part of the home-buying process, it is likely that applying for a mortgage would fall to the bottom of the list. The mortgage process can be l...
Summer is an excellent time to bump up your home's outdoor appeal. The weather typically cooperates; you've surely seen some must-do projects on Pinterest; and, you were looking for a new exercis...
They love to cuddle. They're perfect companions. They're as cute as can be. The list of reasons that you love your pet could go on for days. So, when you're trying to sell your home, the last thi...
They're classic, romantic, treasured and revered. They've withstood war, weather and even the worst of economic conditions. So, it is no wonder why many people in today's real estate market natur...
Summer isn't called "swimsuit season" for no reason. Many people try to slim down, tone up and do whatever they can to show off all of their best assets before they hit the beach or attend any ot...
Many Americans are returning to the reality of the work week after celebrating Independence Day with fun and fireworks. Of course, those celebrations call to mind many of the great freedoms that ...
Picture this; you're in the market to buy a new home this summer. As you trek from showing to showing, the summer sun is blazing down on you and you are sweating bullets. Then, you see it. It's t...
Nothing says summer like a little 4th of July fun with family, friends and, of course, fireworks! If you're hosting this year's party, but your spark to get prepared hasn't yet been ignited, ther...
Whether you are an owner looking to invest in your property or a real estate professional working to help a seller, the topic of basement remodeling is sure to come up. Before beginning any proje...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/will-a-finished-basement-add-value-to-your-home/
Looking to buy or build a home in a picturesque new community or considering buying a home in a condominium complex? Whether you've got your sights set on a private, gated community or you're sho...
Since summertime is often a season of entertaining that is full of backyard BBQs, pool parties and other get-togethers, homeowners want to be sure that their homes are prepped and ready to welcom...
As buyers look for new homes across varying real estate markets, some may find that, for a number of reasons - cost, preference or location, among many others - building a home is a more desirabl...
As the summer sun continues to heat up, so does the real estate market for many sellers across the nation. But, even in the hottest of markets, it is still possible for a seller to come up short ...
The summer home sale season is hot hot HOT! With excited, motivated buyers out scouring the streets for their next home, it can be easy for a seller to be taken by surprise when it comes time for...
Sometimes it's hard to find the perfect way to express your appreciation for good 'ol dad on Father's Day. Between Googling "Father's Day Gifts" and texting your siblings pictures of gifts with t...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/6-fab-fathers-day-events-in-pittsburgh/
Whether you are a homeowner trying to sell your home or a real estate professional trying to help sell a property, small bathrooms are a common problem. The average size of a U.S. bathroom has in...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-to-make-a-small-bathroom-feel-bigger/
Moving season is in full swing! First-time homebuyers, move-up buyers, empty-nesters and retirees are busily settling into their new spaces. With all of this excitement, it can be easy to forget ...
As if finding your dream home, making an offer, having it accepted and going through the closing process was not hard enough, have you stopped to consider the area surrounding your "perfect" home...
Having the opportunity to see the most beautiful things in life does not always mean you have to spend a fortune to do so. In fact, Pittsburgh has an abundance of unique experiences that will lea...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/10-free-family-friendly-things-to-do-in-pittsburgh/
Eager buyers are browsing new listings online, viewing homes and making offers. Eager sellers are contacting their real estate agents, prepping their homes for showings and working toward closing...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/sellers-beware-10-mistakes-that-can-cost-you/
Whether you are a first-time homebuyer or you have made several moves, the home-buying process can be a long, arduous task. And, why not? Buying a home is one of the biggest purchases many people...
The home-buying-and-selling season is in full swing; thus, home inspection season has also begun. Both buyers and sellers may feel a little tense when it comes time for the home inspection during...
Mold. It is common both indoors and outside, but when mixed with the right amount of moisture or humidity, it can cause potential home and health issues. Experts say that every home has mold in i...
Did you just purchase a new home? Looking to make a few updates to the existing property? There are a number of effective improvement projects that can be undertaken in order to boost a home's co...
When home owners think of renovations, home improvements or other additions, they are often thinking of ways to increase the value of their homes. Typical renovations do increase value, so it is ...
Trying to decide whether to buy or build your next home can be a difficult decision. Factors like the current real estate market in the area where you are searching for a home and the current cos...
With spring in full swing, it is time to do some serious thinking about putting your home's best face forward and increasing your curb appeal for the outdoor season. Whether you're planning to li...
By now, you've probably become familiar with the term "going green" and it is likely that you already try to do your part to help protect Mother Nature when you can. But, did you know that there ...
We're hopping right to Easter this weekend. So, let's focus on how your home can reflect the brightness of the spring season with a special Easter touch. Here are a few easy ways to make Easter s...
We all know that April showers bring May flowers, but before those spring blossoms arrive, what can you do to pass the time on those long rainy days inside, particularly if you have kids? Surely ...
The moving season is upon us, which means that many homeowners may be looking at relocating. Whether you are planning a move across town or across the country, you may need to work with a real es...
Are you looking for a few different ways to boost the resale value of your home, in anticipation of listing it for sale? There are a number of improvement projects you can complete in order to se...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/5-improvement-projects-that-can-boost-home-values/
Spring isn't the only season that has sprung upon us lately; we're in the middle of tax season and if you're a homeowner, tax time can be a very good time for you. It doesn't matter if you own a ...
If the long, cold winter has had you doing some thinking about selling your home, now that spring has arrived, it may be time for you to shake off those cold feet and list your home. It is pretty...
When most people think of listing their home for sale, the next thoughts that typically follow include all the work they believe the house needs before it can be listed. Some repairs are a good i...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/4-home-improvements-that-can-help-sell-your-home/
Buying a home that qualifies as a "fixer-upper" is one great reason to make sure your personality and your home preferences are in sync. Undoubtedly, taking an out-of-date, out-of-style and, seem...
As if searching for a new home is not a daunting enough task, actually going to closing can be an entirely different animal. While we would all like to believe that closing is as easy as shaking ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/closing-time-how-to-pick-up-your-new-keys-with-ease/
As one of the most popular locations on the home's property for entertaining, relaxing and dining, the humble porch offers a great deal of versatility in design and use. Porches come in many shap...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/4-creative-ways-to-remodel-your-porch/
Living in an apartment means making the most of the space you have! Fortunately, for apartment dwellers, there are a number of tips and tricks to will help maximize your square footage. However, ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/10-common-apartment-decorating-mistakes/
Almost all home and business owners fear fire accidents. The reason is obvious - fire can easily consume entire homes, buildings or even neighborhoods in just a matter of minutes. Once the flames...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/prevent-it-common-causes-of-home-electrical-fires/
Fall is a busy time of year, and with the winter holidays fast approaching, home maintenance chores are not always at the top of our priorities. However, proper winter home maintenance is vital t...
Like the world of fashion, people love interior design! The colors, the patterns, the style! With 2014 only weeks away, you're probably wondering what next year's trends are going to be. friends ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/2014-interior-design-predictions/
Purchasing a new home, especially if it is your first one, is a rewarding and a defining moment in your life. That's why it is so important to be sure you are making the right choice! Unfortunate...
Buying a home is a very exciting time! You get to choose the place that you will be living your life in, the place that you may raise your family and build great memories in. While buying a home ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/5-questions-you-should-ask-before-buying-a-home/
The world of applications has changed the world and we're not just talking about gaming! There are plenty of ways that mobile phone applications have impacted interior design too. From mood board...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/10-great-home-decor-apps/
Determining your credit score is often a mystery! Calculating with exactness has become a multi-million dollar business with dozens of companies vying to provide credit scores to American consume...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/the-five-factors-that-calculate-credit-score/
When Clark Griswold set out to make his holiday light display the brightest in the neighborhood, you can bet that saving energy and money were the farthest things from his mind! But, this holiday...
It may seem counter-intuitive for a plumbing company to give homeowners secret tips that will help them AVOID calling a plumber out to the house, but sometimes there are simple fixes that homeown...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/12-secrets-your-plumber-isnt-telling-you/
Moving into a new home is an exciting time. Your mind is spinning with plans for your new kitchen curtains, bathroom remodeling, and closet organization. But everyone knows that moving can also b...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/home-security-safeguarding-your-new-home-from-theft/
Are you tired of looking at the same, uninspired decor when you walk into your bathroom? Many homeowners underestimate the importance of creating a vibrant, attract bathroom. Since it's used as a...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/4-quick-fixes-for-a-boring-bathroom/
Because renovating your bathroom often means that you are temporarily unable to stay at your home, it is important carefully consider what will be done and how it will be done before starting wor...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/what-to-consider-before-remodeling-your-bathroom/
Performing environmentally-friendly renovations to your home offers a number of benefits, including reduced energy usage. It's not uncommon for homeowners to slash their monthly electric bill by ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/5-ways-to-make-your-home-more-energy-efficient/
The art of Feng Shui (pronounced Fung Sch-way) is an ancient and much respected form of art. It is considered a philosophical system for balancing all aspects of a home or workplace and is follow...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/a-beginners-guide-to-feng-shui/
Kitchen projects have historically been associated as one of the most significant and, often, pricey home improvement projects, but times are changing! Today, remodeling trends are more affordabl...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/inexpensive-kitchen-remodeling-tips/
Bathroom renovation is often one of the most time consuming and costly renovations you can make to your home. This room is so central to our daily lives and any temporary destruction will influen...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/breaking-bad-bathrooms-what-to-do-and-not-to-do/
Winter Plumbing and Heating Maintenance for your Home During the winter season, the need for plumbing and heating maintenance increases as cold nights and freezing temperatures set in. While plum...
So, you have a kitchen that just isn't working for you. Whether it has outdated appliances, worn out cupboards or unattractive wallpaper some kitchens just need a little TLC before they can be th...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/quick-budget-friendly-kitchen-renovations/
1. A warm blanket A cozy, warm blanket is invaluable during winter, and it's incredibly versatile too. Use it as an extra layer on your bed at night or throw it over you for added warmth whilst c...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/8-essentials-every-home-needs/
It's here! It's here! It's here! Spring has officially sprung and the season's fresh sights and sounds cannot be far behind. So, now that spring has finally arrived, are you ready to give your ho...
Spring is just days away; so, not only may spring cleaning be on your mind, but how about a little spring moving? If you're in the market for a new home, there is no doubt that this is an excitin...
If you're selling a home in today's real estate market, the chances are good that you're not marketing your home to mom and pop. In fact, the bulk of today's homebuyers come from Generations X an...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/generation-y-e-s-ways-to-appeal-to-young-homebuyers/
If you've recently applied for a mortgage and have been denied, there are a few things you should know. First and foremost, you are not alone. With the many twists and turns the real estate marke...
After the long, bitter winter, it goes without saying that we all will be welcoming spring with open arms in just a few weeks. With the season of renewal nearly upon us, it is likely that many pe...
The good news is that March has arrived and that means there are only a few more weeks left of winter. The bad news is that this is right around the time when cabin fever starts to set in and man...
As we push for the warmer, greener pastures of spring, we are reminded of a few home maintenance tests that should be on every homeowner's spring cleaning list. In fact, making sure that your hom...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/its-time-for-home-maintenance-tests/
The mere decision to sell your home is enough to bring on unwanted stress. So, the last thing you want to worry about during the sales process is the safety of your home and your belongings. When...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/seller-safety-tips-for-safe-home-showings-and-sales/
When it comes to finding a new home for your family, you can't forget about your furry, four-legged family members. While Fido and Fluffy may not vocalize their opinions on their new home, they s...
Although Mother Nature doesn't always like to show it this time of year, spring is surely inching closer, which may have many current homeowners feeling something like cabin fever; could it be ti...
Sweaty palms weak knees butterflies in your stomach all are sure signs of attraction, but could they mean that you've found "The One?" Cupid has many ways of revealing himself, but what about whe...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/struck-by-cupid-14-ways-to-know-youve-found-the-one/
Who doesn't love watching their favorite home buying, home selling or home improvement shows? They're often full of incredible homes, eager buyers and 30-minute closes! But, when it comes to real...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/is-there-any-truth-in-realty-on-reality-tv/
Staying organized during the purchase and move into a new home is always a challenge. There are so many tasks to keep track of from financing to planning a move and deciding on new decor. But wit...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/5-apps-for-new-homeowners-/
For many investment property owners, regulating their properties and tenants is not their only profession. But, when you take on the title of "landlord," there is, unquestionably, a lot of respon...
Whether you are in the market to buy or sell a home, one thing is certain: you want a real estate agent on your side that is looking out for your best interests; that you know you can trust; and,...
When it comes to home renovations, we all don't have the time nor do we all possess the skills to conquer projects on our own. Finding a contractor can be a challenge, that's where we're faced wi...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/5-tips-for-finding-a-fair-contractor/
Although last month it seems like we welcomed winter weather for the holiday season, by now it is likely that we're all more than ready for a few rays of sunshine to melt away that chill, not to ...
Wondering how to make your home hot this year? Make your home the envy of your friends by incorporating the most innovative paint colors, home layouts and patterns that will be popular in 2014. D...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/10-hot-home-trends-for-2014/
You're preparing to buy your first home and you couldn't be more excited that is, until you start to think about acquiring your very first mortgage. Cue dismal, dreary music dun, dun, duunnnn! Re...
Your closets are bursting at the seams your kids are begging for their own space and you're dying for a place to entertain guests - don't worry, you're not alone! For many homeowners, there comes...
Reasonable home prices and low interest rates make now a great time to invest in real estate. But, it is that easy to find and buy an investment property? If you're a first-time investor, what do...
You've probably been told that trying to sell a home in winter is not as easy as listing your home in spring or summer, because there are typically fewer people searching for a new home during th...
Not only can colors have the biggest impact on the way your home feels, they can also have an impact on the way YOU feel. While perceptions of colors are somewhat subjective, there are colors tha...
With the first full week of 2014 in full swing, the time is now to get going on those financial resolutions you set forth for the year. Whether you currently own your own home, are renting with p...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/save-in-2014-create-a-budget-and-dont-budge-it/
It's been said that the kitchen is the heart of a home. In a busy household, sometimes a little extra care can go a long way to prolong the life of your appliances. Try these simple tips to help ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/is-it-time-to-refresh-your-kitchen-appliances/
2014 has arrived and whether you brought the new year in like a wrecking ball or enjoyed a quiet night at home, it's time to get down to business with all of those resolutions that you've vowed t...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/splish-splash-it-is-time-to-add-safety-to-your-bath/
Working out more, eating less and losing weight may be some of 2014's most popular personal New Year's resolutions; but, why not get a little creative with your home's "to do" list for 2014? Ther...
Christmas week is here! Along with the natural joy, love and laughter the holiday season brings, 'tis also the time for holiday hosting. While you count down the days until Santa arrives, what be...
If less-than-merry crowds and not-so-spectacular deals have spoiled your holiday mood so far, adding some festive decor to your home is a great way to help make your spirits bright this holiday s...
Whether or not you've found home ownership or renting to be naughty or nice this year, the holiday season is a great time to create a little wish list for your home. Throughout the year, you've c...
The holidays are almost here! But, before you hang your stockings by the chimney and line your rooftop with rows of bright, festive lights, take a moment to consider a few safety tips that will m...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/ho-ho-home-safety-tips-for-the-holiday-season/
Dashing through the snow to go check out a home, O'er the fields you go to make it all your own! While those may not be the correct lyrics to the classic holiday favorite, those lines are a reali...
While Mother Nature has been a bit unseasonably kind this fall, we know that winter's cold, snowy conditions cannot be far behind. So, if you haven't prepped your home for what weather is surely ...
A new home may not be the first thing on shoppers' lists this holiday season, but there certainly are ways to market your home that will give you an edge over some of those Black Friday and Cyber...
Before you hear "Pass the turkey!" and "Ooh, I MUST get this recipe!" later this week, make sure your home is dressed with all the trimmings to welcome your Thanksgiving guests in style! Here are...
Just graduated from college? Making a career move? Retiring? Simply seeking a fresh start? There are a multitude of reasons that people decide to relocate; but, no matter what the reason may be, ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/moving-to-a-new-city-relocation-relief-is-here/
First impressions mean everything! So, if you're trying to sell your home you'll want it to look it's best for potential buyers. If hiring a professional stager is out of your budget, here are a ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/5-inexpensive-home-staging-ideas/
Whether it is home repairs, home upgrades, general home maintenance or, even taxes and utilities, being a home owner can be expensive. Managing those financial responsibilities can take some work...
Their sports teams, an awesome skyline and Primanti Bros. are three indisputable things that most Pittsburgher's love; but, when it comes to buying a home in and around the city, what are people ...
In today's real estate market, often times, the seller has an instant edge over the buyer. Let's face it; in many areas, home prices are rising at an astronomical rate. Frankly, today's market is...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/sellers-beware-how-to-lose-a-buyer-in-10-ways/
Today is National Fire Prevention Day and as a homeowner, landlord or renter, now is the perfect time to make sure that you are doing everything you can to protect your home and your family from ...
Sometimes when home owners are struggling to sell a home, they may offer potential renters the option to rent-to-own. When would-be home owners are having a hard time qualifying for a mortgage, a...
There are many things to love about fall crisp clean air, beautiful fall foliage, pumpkin-flavored everything and, that's just a few of our favorites! Fall also presents an awesome opportunity to...
Think you've maxed out your home's potential for value-adding renovations, but still have the funds and drive to do more? Maybe you pampered yourself last year by adding that back patio, complete...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/home-additions-for-the-young-and-the-young-at-heart/
House numbers aren't typically something you think about when planning home's exterior appearance; however, they can be a creative and functional way to add stylish curb appeal. We've scoured Pin...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/5-unique-ways-to-display-your-house-number/
The housing market is recovering nearly everywhere, which leads many homeowners to ask the question, "Should I consider cashing in on my home's equity?" Experts advise anyone considering a home e...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/home-equity-loans-to-borrow-or-not-to-borrow-/
When you are considering buying a home, it is easy to think about things like what style of home you like, how many rooms you need and what parks or other entertainment options might be nearby. H...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/a-buyers-guide-to-understanding-your-mortgage/
If you're starting to consider downsizing, chances are you're feeling overwhelmed, hesitant and, quite frankly scared. For most of us, it's difficult to imagine even going through all the boxes o...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/5-ways-seniors-can-simplify-downsizing/
If you have children (and even if you don't), you probably are not surprised to know that school districts impact the home-buying decisions of almost 2/3 of potential home buyers today. What you ...
It's Homeowner 101 really, you've got to have the tools to get the job (or jobs!) around the house done. But, if you're not a jack-of-all-trades and you don't want to ask "handy Uncle Bill" to he...
If you've recently bought a new home or you're considering bringing a new, four-legged family member into your existing home, safety should be at the top of your priority list. Who doesn't want t...
It is only the beginning of August, but before you know it, the kids will be back to school and we will be welcoming the cool breeze that fall brings. Maybe you added that new deck or finally fin...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/make-your-home-feel-like-new/
You've received the advice before: "You really ought to invest in some real estate." "There's never been a better time to invest." Yes, it all sounds good and you have thought about it. But, you ...
So, you've bought a new home, hung up a few pictures, tidied up your sanctuary a.k.a your bedroom you're basically moved in, now what? Give your new home the start it deserves and do some organiz...
Now that Memorial Day has passed, summer is unofficially underway and you know what that means tis the season for picnics, pool parties and backyard barbeques! But, what if you've just moved in t...
OK, sellers as you've probably already assumed, most buyers begin their home searches online. So, that is probably a good place for you to start showing off your home, right? Well, May is Nationa...
OK, kids get your coats and get in the van, we're going house-hunting? Yes, you read that correctly. They're a major concern on your mind when you're looking at homes for sale; they're a constant...
If you thought deciding whether to buy or rent a home was a difficult decision; but, you decided to buy - congratulations! Now, onto the next, big decision: what type of home is best for you? Oh,...
When making your home more energy-efficient is good for the environment and also for you, there truly is no reason not to observe Earth Day - every day. Do yourself and Mother Nature a favor. Her...
The phrase "necessary evil" has never been more appropriate than when used to describe a pre-sale home inspection. Thanks to shows like HGTV's "Holmes on Homes," home buyers and sellers alike kno...
It may be early April, but it's not too early to begin your preparations for spring gardening. A well-maintained garden or landscape can do wonders for the curb appeal of your property. Whether y...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/3-secrets-to-a-better-spring-garden/
If this winter's weather kept you cooped up inside and you feel like you've neglected your usual spring planting routine, you're not alone. Look at it this way - the inside of your house is spotl...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/want-instant-curb-appeal-get-in-the-garden-and-fast/
So, you've listed your home for sale and you're ready to hold an open house. Congratulations! An open house is a fantastic way to drive traffic to your home and, potentially, grab the attention o...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/10-ways-to-prep-your-home-for-an-open-house/
Chances are, whether you're saving up to buy a new home, you've just moved or you'd like to make some improvements to your current home - you wouldn't mind saving a little money. Did you know tha...
Well, despite what Punxsutawney Phil predicted or how Mother Nature has been acting thus far - spring has sprung! Our forecast? Embrace it and get started on your spring cleaning. We've compiled ...
Sometimes life flips our whole world around. Maybe a job has you moving to a brand new city or perhaps an appealing school district has you buying a new home on the other side of the city. Regard...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/5-ways-to-get-cozy-in-your-new-community/
Maybe you're buying a bigger home to grow your family or downsizing to a smaller home after the kids have gone off to college. You could be relocating to a new city for your career. There are cou...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/sell-or-rent-that-is-the-questions/
Buying your first home is exciting it's scary it's confusing it's rewarding while we could go on and on, we won't. You've obviously already got a lot on your mind. So, how about putting some orde...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/so-you-want-to-buy-a-house-now-what/
Tis the season for tax preparation. Not excited? If you're a homeowner, we've got a few reasons why you should be! From selling a home, paying interest on a mortgage, making a home improvement or...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/6-tax-breaks-for-homeowners/
Whether the weather would like to let us believe it or not, spring actually is right around the corner. Ah, yes, it's nearly time to breathe deeply and inhale that fresh, clean spring air. And, a...
When you're saving up to put a down payment on a new home or you want to make a few improvements before you list your home for sale or, maybe, you've just purchased a brand new home, saving and m...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/6-simple-ways-to-save-on-your-home-expenses/
With a low supply versus a high demand ratio, the current real estate market in Pittsburgh and Southwestern PA has put the seller in the driver's seat. This might not be the case for long, so if ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/4-reasons-why-you-should-list-your-home-now/
Of course, you love your home - but, when you're ready to list it, what can you do to make sure potential buyers feel the love, too? It may sound simple, but some basic maintenance can make your ...
Maybe you're ready to buy your first home maybe you're looking for vacation property hey, maybe you're even interested in an investment property. Regardless of your reason for searching out real ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/10-great-reasons-yinz-should-live-in-the-steel-city/
You're ready to be a homeowner and whether you are looking for your first home, searching for a vacation property or moving to a new area, you've got some serious thinking to do. A good starting ...
Whether you've just moved in to a new home or this was the year that you were finally able to complete your ultimate outdoor space - including that multi-level deck and brick fire pit - the 4th o...
Calling all committed couples out there - you know how the saying goes first comes love, then comes home-buying, then comes a boat-load of decisions you may have thought remaining unmarried would...
Summer officially starts this week and if running to family picnics, neighborhood pool parties and Johnny's baseball games weren't enough for you to juggle, let's not forget those ever-so-necessa...
Ah, yes, dear ole dad. He changed your diapers, your oil and, sometimes, even your mind - where did he get that infinite wisdom? Now that Father's Day is rapidly approaching, how are you going to...
If you're searching for vacation property or a new home that's not too far from the city, look no further than Southwestern Pennsylvania's Laurel Highlands. Just 55 miles from downtown Pittsburgh...
Scenic countryside, traditional bed and breakfasts, beautiful, historic buildings, antique shops and even farmers markets sounds like Americana at its finest, right? Actually, it is and it's loca...
When you're looking for a home in Pittsburgh, it is impossible not to consider Peters Township in Washington County. Just 15 miles south of downtown Pittsburgh, the nearly 20 square-mile township...
When you're searching for a home in Pittsburgh, consider this: just seven miles southwest of downtown Pittsburgh you'll find Bethel Park, a municipality that invites one and all to visit, shop an...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/bethel-park-its-simple-visit-shop-live/
Whether you're interested in buying or selling a home or just looking for an interesting piece of trivia to share at your next cocktail party, you may want to consider the home-buying preferences...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/house-hunting-a-classic-battle-of-the-sexes/
Whether it's your own mother, your wife, sister, daughter or just a special woman in your life who takes care of you and the ones you love, Mother's Day is the perfect time to show your appreciat...
When you picture a quintessential American small town, what do you see? Perhaps it is a picturesque Victorian clock tower at the center of streets lined with glistening street lamps, void of any ...
Less than a half hour north of downtown Pittsburgh lie two communities that young business people, families and retirees can't resist when they're searching for a home in Pittsburgh: Cranberry To...
What can you find at the crossroads of bustling Interstates 80 and 79? While the obvious answer may not immediately be comfortable community-living, friendly neighbors and, yes, even farmland tha...
If you like the idea of having access to everything the city of Pittsburgh has to offer, but know you're not interested in living downtown or in one of the city's closest suburbs, the Westmorelan...
When it comes to Pittsburgh real estate, the communities that lie just east of the city offer residents many perks, but one of the most immediately noticeable things is simple location, location,...
Pittsburgh sports fans how would you feel about living merely footsteps from Heinz Field and PNC Park? Yes, the Pittsburgh Steelers and Pittsburgh Pirates could be just outside of your doorstep i...
Rich in history and heritage, Sewickley is a Native American word, meaning "sweet water." It's also an absolutely charming Pittsburgh suburb. But, don't be fooled by the quaint essence of this se...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/neighborhood-guide-sewickley-offers/
Live near the airport or live close to downtown? When you're looking for homes for sale around Pittsburgh, you're fortunate enough not to have to make that choice. The Pittsburgh suburbs that lie...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/neighborhood-guide-how-pittsburghs-west-was-fun/
Enjoy nature's quiet, serene beauty, but need to have access to big-city living, too? Take a walk through one of Pittsburgh's not-so-hidden treasures, Fox Chapel, and you'll instantly fall in lov...
In the heart of the Laurel Highlands in Southwestern Pennsylvania lies Hidden Valley, a not-so-secret scenic paradise where families vacation, just-as-often as they make it their home. What's not...
If you're looking for a home in an area with rich history and modern family values, the Pittsburgh suburbs located in Hampton Township may be ideal. Established around the time of the Revolutiona...
After months of searching and touring homes for sale in Pittsburgh and Western PA, you've finally found the perfect sized house in the neighborhood you love, but its appearance isn't quite what y...
Looking for a new home and selling your old one should be a rejuvenating experience. However, if the thought of selling a house seems daunting for you, here is some professional advice to walk yo...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/how-to-sell-a-house/
Using the fireplace in the evenings is a winter staple in some households. Sitting in front of a crackling fire with a mug of hot cocoa and a quilted blanket is the very image of the winter seaso...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/fireplace-maintenance-tips/
The holidays are over and the new year is here. For those who have promised themselves they are going to get their homes in order, possibly even in preparation for a sale, it's time to get going....
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/home-improvements-resolutions/
While it is good to market your home year-round, selling a home in winter can bring a few challenges you don't find in summer. The weather doesn't always provide the best lighting or atmosphere, ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/tips-for-selling-your-home-in-winter/
From: Triblive.com With our economy tied to education, medicine and energy, Pittsburgh earned another distinction on Friday as one of three major U.S. metropolitan areas experiencing recovery sin...
by: Jim Lowenstern The holidays are fast approaching. Regardless of what denomination you are- the next couple of months are probably going to be more hectic than most as you prepare to conclude ...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/selling-your-home-over-the-holidays/
Pittsburgh's Prudential Preferred Realty announced today that it has joined OwnAmerica, a national web-based, resource and training organization for real estate investors and investment specialis...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/prudential-preferred-realty-joins-ownamerica/
In late October a bill was put forward by Councilman Ricky Burgess that has the potential for drastic improvement in some of Pittsburgh's less active neighborhoods. The bill proposes the formatio...
Just north of Pittsburgh, once a sleepy town and now a center of constant growth, sits Cranberry Township. Historically known for the cranberry bogs that used to be found in the area, it has beco...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/cranberry-township-living-out-of-the-city/
Many homeowners have heard the term refinancing, but not all thoroughly understand what it means, or when it is appropriate. Thinking about refinancing but not sure what it involves? We put toget...
https://www.thepreferredrealty.com/blog/article/refinance-101/