REAL ESTATE SPECIAL SECTION
Spring is in the air , which means buyers and sellers of all kinds are getting ready to find the home of their dreams . Buying or selling a home isn ’ t as simple as it seems on television and can be quite an arduous process . With the right tools and tips , however , you can take on the housing market like a pro .
According to Zillow , more than half of the largest housing markets across the country have regained the value lost from the market collapse over a decade ago . Unfortunately , it also reports that Pittsburgh is one market that has gained the least value since 2011 , rising only 56 percent . But don ’ t let that discourage you . The city has gained several accolades the past few years including “# 6 Best City for First-Time Home Buyers ” by Business Insider , “# 7 Cities Where Millennials Are Moving ” by Time and “# 11 Most Affordable City ” by Forbes .
Along with several large companies already headquartered in Pittsburgh , there is no sign of the corporate real estate market slowing . The technology industry continues to build within the city , and plans for specialty medical facilities and a growing number of community hospitals are already in the works . With the promise of new jobs in these industries , we ’ ve seen millennials sticking around the city or moving back home after graduation in the hopes of settling here . In the past five years , the number of millennial residents has increased 18 percent , according to a CBRE report . With the growing number of millennials moving into rentals , we also see families in search of their first home or their forever home , and baby boomers downsizing — making the Pittsburgh housing market ready for buyers and sellers of all kinds ! So , take advantage of the warmer air approaching and get ready for those eager to explore the market for their next home .
PREPARING TO SELL IN 2018 ?
Selling your home can be an emotional process . Many sellers want their home to go to buyers who can create new memories in their beloved home , but often overlook the steps they need to take to give buyers the “ wow ” factor . Here are tips to get the most out of your home sale :
1 . The first impression is the only impression .
You ’ ve heard the saying “ You ’ ll never get a second chance at a first impression .” This is not only true on your first date , but also with your home ’ s first viewing ! Check out your home ’ s curb appeal . Do dead bushes need to be removed ? Old holiday decorations need to be put away ? Try to view
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