Kathe’s Blog
An Ongoing Column Offering News, Advice, and Observations: All About The Real Estate Market in Pittsburgh, PA.
Getting Ready For Market
How do you approach homes that may not be ready for market when you first see them? Is it better if the home is completely ready before you see it?Generally, its best if I see your home before you make any changes to get it ready for market. After 25 years selling...
Making a Strong First Impression
As we consider listing our home, what are the best, quick, and affordable changes we can make to enhance its sales appeal?First impressions are pivotal when selling your home, and a fresh coat of paint is one of the most cost-efficient ways to make a dramatic impact....
The Impact of the New Court Decision on Pricing
Given the current focus on real estate commissions and buyer's agents, how should I consider these changes when pricing my home for sale?Understanding the true value of your property has always been a cornerstone of successful selling. However, in the light of the new...
Why You Need a Buyers Agent
With all of the conversation about buyers agents, commissions, and possibly having to pay for our own buyers agent, why should we even engage one?It is important to note that Pennsylvania does not recognize oral buyer agency, so if you want representation when you are...
Are Buyers Paying For Their Own Agent Now?
Are buyers now going to have to pay their own Realtors? Some commentators have suggested that one of the results of the recent judgment in the real estate industry (currently under appeal) may be that buyers may have to pay their own agents. To clear up the...
Real Estate Judgement
Can you explain this big real estate judgment we are hearing so much about? How does it impact us? Last week a federal jury found the National Association of Realtors ((NAR), and real estate franchises HomeServices of America (under which Berkshire Hathaway falls)...