Kathe’s Blog
An Ongoing Column Offering News, Advice, and Observations: All About The Real Estate Market in Pittsburgh, PA.
Taking the First Steps – Part 4
We’re first-time home buyers. Where do we begin? (Part 4 of 4 – Last Chapter) As you approach the final stretch of your home buying journey, it’s time to focus on the crucial steps that will bring you to the finish line. After months of searching, negotiating, and...
Taking the First Steps – Part 3
We’re first time home buyers. Where do we begin? (Part 3) If you are following along, so far you have gotten pre-approved for your mortgage, researched and chosen a buyer’s agent to be your advocate, saved money for your down payment, shopped for a home and gotten...
Taking the First Steps – Part 2
We’re first time home buyers. Where do we begin? (Part 2) For those of who just picking up the conversation today, check out Part One to read my introduction to the home buying process. If you are following along, so far you have gotten pre-approved for your...
Taking the First Steps
We’re first time home buyers – where do we begin? Buying a home is one of the best choices you can make. Rather than paying money to your landlord so that he can be closer to owning an asset outright each month, when you make your monthly payment each month a portion...
The Impact of Interest Rates
How do the interest rates affect my ability to buy a home? Should I wait for rates to come down before moving? Interest rates directly impact the affordability of a mortgage, as they affect your monthly payments and the total cost of the loan. Higher interest rates...
The Art of Negotiation
How can I effectively negotiate the price of a home? What strategies work best? Begin with a strong position by showing that you are a serious buyer. This involves being well-prepared with a mortgage pre-approval and a readiness to move quickly. Sellers are often more...