How to Prepare Your House for Winter

Living in Pittsburgh, PA, we all have the luxury of enjoying all four seasons. Unfortunately for homeowners, that means that we need to make sure our properties are in tip-top shape to weather spring, summer, fall, and winter. Here at Cork Valley Properties, we wanted to share some tips on how to ensure that your … Continued

Can You Rent a Home with Bad Credit?

Absolutely—you can rent a home even with bad credit, but it often requires a bit more effort and smart positioning. Here’s how to improve your chances and what options are available: Can You Rent with Bad Credit? Yes, it’s possible. While many landlords use credit scores to assess financial responsibility, they often consider other factors … Continued

How to spot fraud in a home purchase

Spotting fraud in a home purchase is crucial—fraudulent activity can cost buyers thousands or even result in losing the home entirely. Here are some red flags and ways to protect yourself: 1. Title & Ownership Issues 2. Suspicious Pricing & Pressure 3. Wire Transfer & Payment Fraud 4. Mortgage & Loan Fraud 5. Property Condition … Continued

Selling a House Due to Job Relocation? Here’s What to Know

1. Timing Your Sale 2. Relocation Assistance from Employer 3. Financial Considerations 4. Logistics of Selling 5. Preparing for a Fast Sale 6. Coordinating the Move ✅ Key Tip: If your relocation is employer-sponsored, start with HR—they may cover part of your selling costs or even arrange the sale for you.

How to Build Wealth Through Real Estate Investing

1. Understand the Wealth-Building Mechanisms Real estate can make you money in four main ways: 2. Choose Your Investment Strategy Your path depends on your time, capital, and risk tolerance: 3. Start Small and Scale 4. Master the Numbers Before buying, calculate: 5. Secure Financing Wisely 6. Manage for Maximum ROI 7. Leverage and Protect … Continued

What to Expect When Selling Your Home to an Investor

🏠 What to Expect When Selling Your Home to an Investor Selling your home to a real estate investor can be faster and simpler than a traditional sale—but it’s also different in a few key ways. Here’s what you should know: 1. Speed & Convenience Expect: A fast closing timeline—often within 7 to 21 days. … Continued

How to Sell a House with an Old Roof

Selling a house with an old roof can be challenging, but it’s definitely doable with the right strategy. Here are key steps to help you sell successfully: ✅ 1. Get a Roof Inspection ✅ 2. Understand Your Options ✅ 3. Adjust Your Pricing ✅ 4. Be Upfront in Marketing ✅ 5. Target the Right Buyers … Continued

How Cork Valley Properties Helps Homeowners in Distress

Cork Valley Properties provides a compassionate, practical solution for homeowners in distress across Pittsburgh’s South Hills neighborhoods. Here’s how they help: 🏠 1. Buy Houses As-Is, Fast 2. Cash Offers with No Fees 3. Support for Difficult Situations They specialize in assisting homeowners facing: 4. Transparent & Personal Process 5. Choice Beyond Selling 💼 Who … Continued

How to Sell Your Home and Avoid Capital Gains Taxes

To sell your home and potentially avoid paying capital gains taxes, you’ll need to meet specific requirements set by the IRS. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown: ✅ 1. Meet the Ownership and Use Test To exclude up to $250,000 (or $500,000 if married filing jointly) of capital gains on your home sale: These two years do … Continued

How to Sell a Hoarder House Without Making Repairs

Selling a hoarder house without making repairs is absolutely possible, but it takes the right strategy to attract the right kind of buyer. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process: 🧭 1. Understand Your Legal Obligations Before anything, check your state’s disclosure laws. Even if you’re selling as-is, most states require you … Continued

Why Some Homes Sell for Cash and Others Don’t

Great question! Whether a home sells for cash or through financing (like a mortgage) depends on several factors involving the property, the seller, the buyer, and market conditions. Here’s a breakdown of why some homes sell for cash and others don’t: Why Some Homes Sell for Cash Why Other Homes Sell With Financing In Summary … Continued

How to Sell Your House with Code Violations

Selling a house with code violations is possible, but it requires a clear strategy to protect yourself legally and financially while making the property attractive to the right kind of buyer. Here’s a comprehensive step-by-step guide: 🔧 Step 1: Understand the Code Violations Types of common violations: ✅ Get a professional home inspection or request … Continued

The Fastest Way to Sell your Home in Pittsburgh!!

The fastest way to sell your house in Pittsburgh depends on your goals—speed, price, and convenience. Here’s a breakdown of the fastest options, along with pros and cons: 1. Sell to a Cash Home Buyer (Real Estate Investor) Timeline: As little as 7–10 daysBest For: Urgent sales (e.g., foreclosure, inherited property, repairs needed) Pros: Cons: … Continued

What Is Renters Insurance and Do You Need It?

Renter’s Insurance: What It Is and Whether You Need It What Is Renter’s Insurance? Renter’s insurance is a type of policy that provides financial protection for individuals who rent their home—whether it’s an apartment, condo, or house. Unlike homeowners insurance, which covers the structure of a building, renter’s insurance covers a tenant’s personal belongings and … Continued

What Happens If You Stop Making Mortgage Payments?

If you stop making mortgage payments, a series of serious financial and legal consequences can follow. Here’s what typically happens: 1. Missed Payment Consequences (30–90 Days) 2. Loan Default (Typically After 90 Days) 3. Foreclosure Process Begins (Usually After 90–120 Days) There are two types: In both cases, you’ll receive formal notice that the lender … Continued