Hi everyone,

Happy New Year! Welcome to 2025! As we dive into this year, I want to thank you for following along and making these newsletters part of your week. In this first edition of the year, I’ve got market updates, local highlights, the 2025 color of the year, standout properties, and even a quirky Pittsburgh connection to kick things off.

If your new here or reading this for the first time I’m Pittsburgh’s Go-To Realtor, Expert in Luxury Homes & Strategic Real Estate Solutions, and someone who’s proud to combine small-town roots with big-city results. Over the years, I’ve sold millions of dollars worth of real estate, met some incredible people, and had the privilege of helping them buy and sell some truly amazing properties.

Let’s dive into this week’s Real Estate Revelations!

Pantone’s 2025 Color of the Year: Mocha Mousse

For over two decades, Pantone has been a global authority on color, influencing design, fashion, and trends across industries. Each year, the organization selects a Color of the Year, a carefully chosen hue that reflects cultural movements, design innovations, and societal moods. This annual selection is more than just a trending shade—it’s a forecast of what will shape design and aesthetics in the coming year.

For 2025, Pantone has revealed PANTONE 17-1230 Mocha Mousse as its Color of the Year. This warm, earthy brown symbolizes stability, comfort, and a return to the essentials. In a world that’s often fast-paced and uncertain, Mocha Mousse offers a sense of grounding and timeless elegance.

Mocha Mousse is a versatile shade that works beautifully in home interiors, adding depth and richness to any space. Whether you’re refreshing your walls with an accent color, updating your furniture, or accessorizing with decor, this hue pairs effortlessly with both neutral and bold palettes. Imagine it paired with soft creams for a cozy atmosphere or deep greens for a striking, nature-inspired look.

For Pittsburgh homeowners, Mocha Mousse is especially fitting for complementing natural materials like brick, wood, and stone—common features in many local homes. It’s an ideal choice for creating a timeless yet modern aesthetic, perfect for those looking to enhance their space or stage a home for sale.

As we step into 2025, Mocha Mousse reminds us to embrace simplicity, comfort, and sophistication in our designs and our lives. Ready to incorporate this trend into your home? Learn more about Mocha Mousse here.

Market News: A Frozen Housing Market Shows Signs of Thawing

The U.S. housing market, which has been in a deep freeze for much of 2024, is beginning to show signs of warming up as we head into 2025. Rising interest rates and limited inventory kept many buyers and sellers on the sidelines last year, but new data suggests a gradual shift is underway.

Experts predict that as mortgage rates stabilize, potential buyers who delayed their home searches may reenter the market, sparking renewed activity. Similarly, more homeowners who had been hesitant to sell due to rate fluctuations are expected to list their properties, providing much-needed inventory.

For Pittsburgh, this could mean a return to a more balanced market, where buyers and sellers both have opportunities to make strategic moves. If you’ve been waiting to buy or sell, now might be the time to start planning your next steps.

Read the full article here for more insights.

Market News: Mortgage Rates Snapshot

As of this week, here’s a look at the national average mortgage rates across different loan types:

• 30-Year Conforming: 6.876% (▲ 0.013)

• 30-Year Jumbo: 6.974% (▼ -0.012)

• 30-Year FHA: 6.547% (▲ 0.073)

• 30-Year VA: 6.389% (▲ 0.092)

• 30-Year USDA: 6.466% (▼ -0.101)

• 15-Year Conforming: 6.103% (▼ -0.083)

While these averages provide a general idea of current rates, keep in mind that rates can vary based on factors like credit score, down payment, and lender.

If you’re considering buying or refinancing, now might be a good time to consult a mortgage professional and lock in a rate before further fluctuations.

Note: These rates reflect national averages and are not representative of specific lender rates.

Local News: Corporate Buyers Disrupt Allegheny County Housing

A growing influx of corporate buyers in Allegheny County is creating challenges for both would-be homebuyers and local code enforcement. These corporations are scooping up properties at a rapid pace, often converting them into rentals, which limits availability for traditional homebuyers.

For local officials, enforcing property maintenance codes becomes a struggle as absentee corporate landlords often neglect upkeep, leaving neighborhoods at risk of decline. This trend is making it harder for first-time buyers and families to compete in an already tight housing market, further driving up home prices and rents.

It’s a dynamic worth watching as Pittsburgh’s housing landscape continues to evolve. Learn more here.

Standout Properties

Every week, I like to highlight unique properties that caught my eye. This week’s selection features a mix of urban sophistication, breathtaking views, and suburban charm—perfect for a variety of lifestyles.

Elegant Victorian in Bell Acres — $820,000
225 Summerlawn Dr, Bell Acres (Sewickley Area)
Located in the Summerlawn community and Quaker Valley School District, this beautifully updated 4-bedroom, 4.5-bath Victorian home offers a serene retreat. Featuring a luxurious kitchen with quartz countertops, wide-plank floors, and board-and-batten walls, this home is modern elegance at its best. The private backyard borders peaceful woods, and the finished walk-out lower level provides extra space for entertaining. Close to Sewickley’s charming shops, Wexford, and the airport, this property is as convenient as it is stunning. View Property

Luxury Living in South Side with City Views — $654,900
128 Pius St, South Side
Urban living meets luxury in this South Side stunner featuring decks on every level, offering sweeping city skyline views. This 4-bedroom, 3.5-bath home includes exposed brick, natural sunlight, maple cabinetry, and Tesla solar panels. The master suite on the third floor boasts vaulted ceilings, a walk-in closet, an enormous bath, and a wrap-around deck. Walk to the area’s trendy bars, restaurants, and shops while enjoying the conveniences of a full security system and backup power. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind property! View Property

Modern Condo in the Heart of the Strip District — $350,000
2554 Smallman St, Unit 203
This sleek one-bedroom, one-bath condo offers urban living at its finest in a boutique residential building. The kitchen boasts custom millwork, Blomberg appliances, and a modern design. Enjoy the natural light from 10-foot floor-to-ceiling windows, as well as a large private terrace with an 8-foot privacy fence. The building includes a rooftop lounge, patio with grills, and stunning sunset views. Located steps from The Terminal Shops and local eateries, this condo is all about location. View Property

Homebuyer Tip: Think Before You Commit to a Big Yard

This tip comes straight from a previous client of mine, and their story always makes me smile (and nod in agreement). Here’s what they said:

"Don't just look at the interior of the home — pay attention to the land that you'll be taking care of, too. I bought a house on a hill not realizing what a pain in the ass the front yard and a slope along the driveway would be to mow, even with a self-propelled mower. My yard wasn't huge, but every time I mowed, it took me at least two hours to do the front yard, backyard, and along the driveway. Unless you are in great shape and don't mind mowing for two hours once a week, or have the money to pay for a mowing service, do not buy a house on a hill or steep incline. I lived there for four years total but decided to sell when the market prices of homes skyrocketed. I've never looked back."

Their story is a great reminder to think carefully about not just the house, but the yard and overall maintenance it will require. Everyone loves the idea of a big yard, but it’s easy to underestimate the time, money, and energy it takes to keep it looking great.

So before you fall for a property with a sprawling yard or steep inclines, ask yourself: Am I ready for this level of upkeep? Is it worth hiring professional help? Sometimes, choosing a smaller, more manageable yard can save you a lot of headaches (and sweat!).

Things to Do This Weekend in Pittsburgh

芸［Gei]: The Beauty of Ephemeral and Eternal
Discover the captivating duality of Japanese Sogetsu Ikebana (living flower arrangements) and traditional crafts in this stunning exhibit. Marvel at exquisite ceramics, metal sculptures, and more, while contemplating the harmony between fleeting beauty and timeless artistry.
📍 Contemporary Craft
📅 Now through March 2025
Learn More Here

Visit Butler Street Derby
Once home to Lawrenceville’s iconic Hambones, this new hotspot blends the neighborhood’s historic charm with a lively modern twist. Whether you’re grabbing drinks with friends or enjoying live music, it’s worth checking out.
📍 Butler Street, Lawrenceville
Explore More Here

Pamper Yourself at Clean Your Dirty Face
Kick off the new year with glowing skin! This quick, 30-minute facial spa offers a fast and effective way to refresh and rejuvenate. Treat yourself—you deserve it.
📍 Lawrenceville, Pittsburgh
Learn More Here

Something Fun

Fun Fact: The Polio Vaccine and My Great Uncle
Did you know the polio vaccine was developed in Pittsburgh by Dr. Jonas Salk in the 1950s? Fun fact: my great uncle raised sheep that were used for testing the vaccine! It’s just another fascinating piece of Pittsburgh's incredible history.

This ties Pittsburgh’s innovation to your personal connection, making it both educational and relatable. Let me know if you'd like to add anything more to this!

Thinking About Buying or Selling?

Let’s chat about how to navigate Pittsburgh’s real estate market. Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or invest, I’m here to help. Hit reply, or schedule a consultation here: 15 Min Consultation

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Thanks for letting me be a part of your inbox this week! I hope you found these insights helpful, whether you're a curious Pittsburgher, a buyer, a seller, or an investor. As always, I’m here to answer any real estate questions or just chat about the market.

Wishing you a wonderful week ahead,
Tim

Tim Pettigrew
Realtor | eXp Realty
📍 Serving Pittsburgh and Surrounding Areas
📞 412-545-6006 | ✉️ [email protected]
🌐 Visit My Website

Disclaimer:
This email is intended for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a solicitation if your property is currently listed with another broker. All real estate information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Please consult a professional for specific advice.

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