Ask Kathe

An Ongoing Column Offering News, Advice, and Observations
– All About The Real Estate Market in Pittsburgh, PA. – 
Browse My Latest Blog Posts Below to be in the Know.

Buying is Still a Smart Choice

Buying is Still a Smart Choice

The high interest rates are discouraging to us and we are not sure we want to purchase – any thoughts? The decision to buy a house, whether a first home or a new home, is one of the most significant financial choices many individuals will make in their lives. While...

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Time For A Change?

Time For A Change?

We are frustrated that our house has not sold and everyone gives us different advice.  We are thinking of changing Realtors.  Who should we believe? Prolonged higher interest rates have caused a decrease in buyer confidence and a very uneven market – some segments are...

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Planning for Retirement

Planning for Retirement

We are moving toward retiring and downsizing.  Is there anything we should be thinking about as we move toward this goal? One very important thing for you to consider is how you plan to pay for your retirement home. If you are thinking you want to finance your home...

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Today’s Market is Not A Repeat

Today’s Market is Not A Repeat

Is the real estate market repeating 2008 all over again?  Absolutely not!  I know there is a lot in the news about real estate these days, and the high interest rates and corresponding buyer anxiety are likely the most significant factor influencing what you may be...

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Be Careful of What You Click!

Be Careful of What You Click!

When I see one of your listings on Zillow and click on contact agent, why don’t you respond?  Why is it always some random agent? As with many things, there is a short answer and a long answer!  First, the short answer!  Zillow sells the “buyer leads” on all the homes...

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Buyers Need Flexibility

Buyers Need Flexibility

We are still looking for our new home and not having any luck – any advice? In the current real estate market, inventory shortages have become a significant challenge for homebuyers. With fewer options available, it's crucial for prospective buyers to adjust their...

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The Power of Staging

The Power of Staging

Do you think it’s a good investment to stage our home before putting it on the market? Home staging is one of the most important things a seller can do to improve their chances for a successful sale!  Staging is just as important as is getting the price right when it...

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Tub or Shower? That is the Question.

Tub or Shower? That is the Question.

Both our bathrooms have claw-foot tubs which I am thinking of replacing with walk-in showers.  What is the value of having a tub in the bathroom in place of a shower or in addition to a shower? Every home must have at least one bathtub.  A prospective...

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Preparation is Key for Multiple Offers

Preparation is Key for Multiple Offers

Are you still seeing multiple offers on homes these days?  Believe it or not, yes! Despite higher interest rates, we are still seeing multiple offers, depending on location, condition and price range.  Multiple offers are primarily coming in...

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Pricing is Key

Pricing is Key

We have been hearing about the lack of inventory and the hot market – we feel this could be a great time to get a premium price for our home. Are we right?  Inventory is low, that is a fact.  We are back to bidding wars. Data indicates that Pittsburgh prices increased...

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The “In” Color

The “In” Color

We are planning to update the color palette in our home.  What are the “in” colors these days? Gray (and its many shades including greige) have been in-style for so long now that its hard to imagine it still holds its alure, and many homeowners are venturing into...

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Spring Inventory Requires Reevaluation

Spring Inventory Requires Reevaluation

We have been sitting on the sidelines for a while now waiting for a home that meets our wish list to come on the market – what’s coming this spring?You might be surprised to find out you are one of dozens of prospective buyers sitting on the sidelines waiting for...

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Experience Makes

The Difference

If you’re moving across town, from elsewhere in the state, or even relocating
across the country, I can help you find the perfect home!