Trump’s Federal Funding Freeze: What It Means for Housing & Why You Should Care (Yes, Even If You Just Want Chicken Fingers)

This Week’s Real Estate Revelations: Where the Action Is (and How You Can Be a Part of It)

Hey Pittsburgh,

If you’ve been following me for a while, you know the drill—this newsletter isn't your typical "business as usual" snooze fest. No one cares about my sales stats, my process, or the latest market jargon. You want the good stuff—what’s hot, what’s happening this weekend,the tea ☕️ , the gossip, and most importantly, what can help you.

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.

This week, we're talking properties, food, events, and some big news that might just impact your life, wallet, and future. Let’s go!

Standout Properties: Luxury, History, and Space You Can Actually Use

63 Waterfront Dr
Let me paint a picture: living on your own private island in Pittsburgh, no big deal, right? That’s exactly what you’re getting here with 63 Waterfront Dr, a $1.4M waterfront townhome at Washington’s Landing. This island paradise is minutes from Downtown, the Strip District, and anywhere else you need to be—yet it’s got a peaceful marina and restaurant right outside your door. You get 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, 3,120 sq ft, and the kind of lifestyle most people can only dream of. Want a life that feels like a vacation, every single day? This is it. If you own a boat, this is your place. The Marina is RIGHT there!
Check it out here

1126 Mellon Street
Next up, an absolute gem in Highland Park. It’s a $600K beauty that mixes classic charm with modern upgrades. A huge backyard (you don’t see that in the city very often), tons of space, and it’s only a few steps from Bryant Street—the neighborhood’s action-packed main strip, filled with great dining and nightlife (including Joseph Tambellini’s—you’re welcome). If you’re a fan of classic homes with modern appeal, this one’s for you.
Check it out here

Layne’s Chicken Fingers: Stop What You’re Doing and Go

Not everything in this newsletter is about real estate (thank god, right?). Let’s talk about Layne’s Chicken Fingers—a local treasure. Whether you’re coming home after a hectic day or want something quick and insanely tasty, this spot has the best chicken fingers in the city. This might ruffle some feathers but it’s better than Raising Cane’s. Yes I said that, the sauce is better, the chicken is better. Raising Canes is 🗑️ . Not to be critical.. Trust me, this place knows what it’s doing. Find the chicken symbol below 👇
Check it out here

The Trump Administration’s Funding Freeze: Why It Matters (and How It Could Affect You)

Alright, hold on tight, because this is where things get real.

In case you missed it, Trump’s administration issued a memo freezing trillions of dollars in federal funding—and while it was temporarily blocked by a judge, the memo threw a wrench into a number of housing programs, including Section 8, Community Development Block Grants, and affordable housing projects.

Why does this matter to you?

For starters, it directly affects those using federal housing assistance programs, which could face delays, shutdowns, or cancellations if this freeze had gone through. Renters, buyers using federal assistance programs, and even developers relying on federal loans for affordable housing projects were scrambling, unsure of how this would impact them.

Here’s the kicker: These programs are already on thin ice due to rising costs, and now there’s a real threat to their stability. Imagine how this could disrupt the already-struggling affordable housing market—it’s one more barrier that could make it even harder for many to secure a stable home. So, if you’re one of the many impacted by these federal programs, stay tuned—this could lead to some big changes coming your way soon.
Read more about it here

Millennial Homebuyers: Ready to Risk It All to Own a Home

Let’s talk about the elephant in the room: millennial homebuyers. According to a recent survey, only 21% of millennials think they can afford to buy a home, and 96% are worried about the process. Home prices? Up. Interest rates? Still high. But that’s not stopping them from trying. In fact, 41% of millennials say they’d buy a home with asbestos, pests, or a leaky roof—just to get in the game.

That’s right: a lot of millennials are ready to settle for a fixer-upper because the dream of homeownership feels so far out of reach. In fact, 68% of millennials would prefer a home under $400K—but with home prices rising and starter homes out of reach, that budget isn’t even close to enough.

So, what’s the endgame? Well, as millennials continue to get priced out of homes, many are trying to make do with whatever they can find. If you’re a millennial thinking about buying this year, the reality is, you’ll likely need to stretch your budget—and maybe accept a few imperfections. But here’s where it gets interesting: the desire for homeownership is still strong. 76% of millennials would buy if mortgage rates dropped—and 56% would offer above asking price, even in this market.

For first-time buyers, the time is now. Prices are going to keep rising, and interest rates won’t always stay this high. Want to learn more about how to prepare for this crazy market? I’ve got you covered.

What’s Happening in Pittsburgh This Weekend? You Don’t Want to Miss These Events

Pittsburgh Reptile Show – February 2nd, 2025
Snake lovers, lizard enthusiasts, and all reptile fans—this one's for you. Get up close and personal with some amazing reptiles and maybe even take one home (if you’re brave enough). It’s a niche event, but if you love reptiles, you know this is the place to be.
Get tickets here

Pittsburgh Remodeling Expo – February 2nd-3rd, 2025
Looking for ideas to improve your home or dream about what could be? The Pittsburgh Remodeling Expo is your chance to check out the latest trends in design, home improvement, and everything in between. Whether you’re building or just dreaming, there’s something for everyone. Sigh 😞 .. I might be here.
Get tickets here

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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