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

How to Qualify for a Rental Home in Pittsburgh

Qualifying for a rental home in Pittsburgh involves meeting both standard tenant requirements and adhering to local housing regulations. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process:​ 🏠 Standard Tenant Requirements 1. Proof of Income Landlords typically require documentation to verify your income, ensuring you can afford the rent. Common documents include: Some … Continued

The Benefits of Selling Your Home Off-Market

Selling your home off-market — meaning without publicly listing it on the MLS or advertising widely — can offer a number of strategic advantages, depending on your goals and market conditions. Here’s a breakdown of the key benefits of selling off-market: 🏡 1. Privacy and Discretion 💰 2. Reduced Costs ⏱ 3. Faster, More Flexible … Continued

Sell Now or Wait?

Deciding whether to sell your house now or wait depends on several factors. Here’s a breakdown of key points to consider before making that decision: 1. Current Real Estate Market Conditions 2. Interest Rates 3. Your Financial Situation 4. Local Market Factors 5. Personal Factors 6. Timing Considerations Conclusion Ultimately, whether you should sell now … Continued

Need to Sell your House in 30 Days or Less?

Selling a house in 30 days or less can be challenging, but it’s definitely possible with the right strategy. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get your home sold quickly: 1. Price it Right 2. Prepare the House 3. Market the Property 4. Be Flexible with Showings 5. Consider Cash Buyers or Investors 6. … Continued

Americans Choose Real Estate as the Best Investment [INFOGRAPHIC]

Some Highlights According to a Gallup poll, real estate has been rated the best long-term investment for eight years in a row. Real estate tops the list because you’re not just buying a place to call home – you’re investing in your future. Real estate is typically considered a stable and secure asset that can grow in value over time. Let’s … Continued

Buyers Want To Know: Why Is Housing Supply Still So Low?

One key question that’s top of mind for homebuyers this year is: why is it so hard to find a house to buy? The truth is, we’re in the ultimate sellers’ market, so real estate is ultra-competitive for buyers right now. The number of buyers searching for a home greatly outweighs how many homes are available for sale. While … Continued

Achieving the Dream of Homeownership

Homeownership has long been considered the American Dream, and it’s one every American should feel confident and powerful pursuing. But owning a home is also a deeply personal dream. Our home provides us with safety and security, and it’s a place where we can grow and flourish. Today, we remember the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, … Continued

A Happy Tail: Pets and the Homebuying Process [INFOGRAPHIC]

Some Highlights It’s no secret that we love our furry friends – about 70% of U.S. households have pets. What may come as a surprise is how large a role they play in the homebuying process. Americans spend $1,163 a year on their pets, and nearly half of pet owners say they would move for better accommodations and amenities for their pets. If you’re thinking of adding … Continued

What’s Going To Happen with Home Prices This Year?

After almost two years of double-digit increases, many experts thought home price appreciation would decelerate or happen at a slower pace in the last quarter of 2021. However, the latest Home Price Insights Report from CoreLogic indicates while prices may have plateaued, appreciation has definitely not slowed. The following graph shows year-over-year appreciation throughout 2021. December data has not yet … Continued

Key Things To Avoid After Applying for a Mortgage

Once you’ve found your dream home and applied for a mortgage, there are some key things to keep in mind before you close. It’s exciting to start thinking about moving in and decorating your new place, but before you make any large purchases, move your money around, or make any major life changes, be sure … Continued

When a House Becomes a Home

It’s clear that owning a home makes financial sense. But lately, the emotional side of what drives homeownership is becoming increasingly important. No matter the living space, the feeling of a home means different things to different people. Whether it’s a familiar scent or a favorite chair, the feel-good connections to our own homes can be more important to … Continued