Real Estate Market Conditions

March 2012 Pittsburgh Real Estate Market Conditions

April 7, 2012

Spring Clean Up Tips For A Home Inspection

Does your home need a check up? Here are some great spring maintenance tips that will help with home inspections and organization. This month’s feature listing is a 2 bedroom, 1 full bathroom home which has been beautifully renovated. For more information on 126 S 20^th Street in South Side visit

http://126s20thst.howardhanna.com or contact Lynne Bingham at 412-855-9154, lbingham@howardhanna.com.

GROUNDS

Check condition of driveways and walks.
Check window wells, dry wells and storm drains for blockage.
Check fencing conditions and gate operation.
Check retaining walls for cracks, bulges and leaning.
Check all landscaping; trim all bushes and trees.
Check all out-buildings, porches and patios.
Check for proper grading and drainage throughout property.
Check lawn sprinkler system operation.
Check all equipment in preparation of pool opening.
Check (during rainstorm) for drainage away from foundation.

SIDING AND CHIMNEYS

Check all surfaces for damage or deterioration.
Check caulking at all joints.
Treat or paint worn or exposed wood components.
Check condition of masonry chimneys and vents.
Check foundation for settlement, cracks and spalling.

WINDOWS AND DOORS

Check for damaged screens or broken glass.
Check weatherstripping, caulking, and window putty.
Check for frame decay or damage.
Clean and install screens.

ROOFS

Check for loose, damaged or missing roofing.
Check fascia and soffit for signs of leaks or moisture build-up.
Check all flashings for fit and seals.
Check television antenna or satellite dish mounting.
Check and clean all gutters (eavestroughs) and downspouts.
Clean fungi or algae from roof surfaces.

PORCH, DECK AND PATIO

Check all wooden supports and railing components.
Check flooring for wear or damage.
Apply preservative to wood decking and components.
Seal patios at foundation.

INSECT INFESTATION

Check for signs of termite, ant or other insect activity.
Check for insect damage.
Arrange for treatment or repair if needed.

INTERIOR AREAS

Check attic, ceilings and walls for evidence of leaks.
Check ventilation openings for nests, or other blockage.
Check condition of all painted or finished walls and trim.
Check carpet and flooring for wear or damage.
Check condition of all stairs and railings.
Check condition and operation of all windows and doors.
Test smoke/fire alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.

SLAB/FOUNDATION

Check for cracks or breaks in wall.
Check for evidence of water infiltration or dampness.
Check for decaying sills and window frames.
Check for signs of termite, ant or other insect activity.
Check for changes in framing conditions.
Check crawlspace ventilation, insulation, and vapor retarders.
Clean and test sump pump.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Assess power distribution for overload issues.
Check condition of incoming service wire and supports.
Test circuit breakers and label all circuits at panel.
Test arc-fault and ground-fault circuit-interrupters (regularly).
Check circuits for over-fusing.
Check all receptacles and switches.
Check operation of vent and/or attic fans.

HEATING/COOLNG SYSTEMS

Follow manufacturer instructions for HVAC systems.
Inspect and install room air conditioners, if applicable.
Clean all serviceable elements of the heating system.
Change or clean heating and cooling system filters (regularly).
Check venting systems for corrosion and leaks.
Clean and de-energize humidifier.
Check attic fan operation.

PLUMBING SYSTEM

De-winterize and check exterior faucets.
Check well components.
Check septic tanks and system; pump as required.
Check water and waste piping for leaks.
Check hot water supply temperature.
Follow manufacturer instructions for water heaters.

KITCHEN/BATHROOMS

Check condition and operation of all appliances.
Clean and change range fan filters.
Check all toilet flush mechanisms.
Check and repair all leaking faucets and valves.
Caulk and grout tile at tubs and showers.
Clean aerators and showerheads.

March 2012 Pittsburgh Real Estate Market Conditions

March 27, 2012

NEW TECHNOLOGY FOR YOUR HOME SEARCH

A new iPhone app, HomeSnap, allows users to take a picture of any home and find its current value, last sale date and price, local schools and more. If the home is currently for sale, the smartphone user gets its MLS information. If a home was just sold, HomeSnap lists the final sale price and listing history.

HomeSnap users also get updates on the homes they photographed. The app tracks each one and updates info automatically, including estimated values, if a user goes back to check an earlier shot. Users can also share the photos with friends on Facebook and Twitter, or email the photos via text message or email.

According to HomeSnap, it uses patent-pending technology to deliver the home information, and “most of the iPhone’s sensors” – which suggests the GPS function – and “advanced algorithms to identify each home.” The app is free to download and available now in Apple’s App Store.

Drive by this quintessential South Side home and try out your new App! 2030 Sarah Street is a classic renovation with fantastically unique rooms! Listed for $549K, the home has massive windows, a great floor plan and superb custom updates. An oversized garage completes the home and exemplifies the essence of this trendy area of South Side. For a complete description visit http://www.postlets.com/repb/6075652 or contact Lynne Bingham at 412-855-9154, lbingham@howardhanna.com.

January 2012 Pittsburgh Real Estate Market Conditions

January 8, 2012

2010 starts off on the right foot in real estate! The positive trend in the upswing of the region’s housing market continues with January statistics increasing in listings, sales and average price. Residential homes placed under agreement increased by 25.59% over last January and new listings were up 7.4% while the average sale price increased 5.07%.

With the inventory of homes for sale still low in Southwestern Pennsylvania, sellers should be extremely encouraged by this news. The continued low interest rates will increase consumer confidence in combination with January’s Spring-like temperatures; there should continue to be an active real estate market, where sellers are getting favorable prices for their homes.

Check out this quintessential South Side home. 2030 Sarah Street is a classic renovation with fantastically unique rooms! Listed for $549K, the home has massive windows, a great floor plan and superb custom updates. An oversized garage completes the home and exemplifies the essence of this trendy area of South Side. For a complete description visit http://www.postlets.com/repb/6075652 or contact Lynne Bingham at 412-855-9154, lbingham@howardhanna.com.