Pittsburgh’s Wild Week: Falling Commissions, Flamingos, and a Mardi Gras Bar Crawl You Can’t Miss!

Pittsburgh’s Wild Week: Falling Commissions, Flamingos, and a Mardi Gras Bar Crawl You Can’t Miss

Author

Tim Pettigrew
February 21, 2025

This Week in Pittsburgh: Real Estate, Beads, and Birds (Yes, Really)

Hey Pittsburgh,

You know the deal—this isn’t some dry, corporate newsletter filled with numbers and jargon. I’m here to bring you the real estate updates that actually matter, the hot properties you need to see, and, of course, the fun stuff happening in the city. Because life’s too short to only talk interest rates, right?

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’ve got a flamingo festival, a Mardi Gras bar crawl, real estate commissions on the decline, and trade policies shaking things up. Let’s dive in! ⬇️

🏡 Standout Properties of the Week: Two Stunners You Can’t Ignore!

If these walls could talk, they’d be saying, “Move in already!” This week’s featured listings offer serious curb appeal, dreamy interiors, and locations that put you right where the action is. Let’s dive in!

📍 Friendship Park | 🛏 5 Beds | 🛁 2 Baths | 📐 2,217 sq ft

Ever dreamed of living in a home that looks like it belongs in a high-end design magazine? Say hello to 252 S Mathilda—a completely renovated, sun-drenched stunner that mixes classic charm with modern elegance. Hardwood floors? Check. Imported Spanish tile in the chef’s kitchen? You bet. A primary bath so luxurious (hello, heated floors!) that you might start calling in sick just to take long soaks? Absolutely. And did we mention the private patio made for summer cocktail nights?

Oh, and let’s not forget the two-car garage, because circling the block for parking is so last year.

⏳ Open House: Saturday, Feb 22, 11:00 AM–1:00 PM

📍 Shadyside | 🛏 3 Beds | 🛁 2 Baths | 📐 1,535 sq ft

This Shadyside charmer is basically the real estate equivalent of a VIP pass to Pittsburgh’s hottest spots—because it’s just 500 feet from Walnut Street’s best shops, cafes, and nightlife. But the perks don’t stop at location. Step inside and you’ll find wide-plank luxury vinyl floors, a massive dining room (seats 10!), and a sleek, never-been-used kitchen with stone countertops and stainless steel appliances.

Upstairs? A king-sized primary retreat that will have you hitting snooze more than you’d like to admit. Outside? A maintenance-free patio and private garage so you can park like a boss.

⏳ Open House: Saturday, Feb 22, 11:00 AM–1:00 PM

🍽️ New Restaurant Spotlight: Miami Potato Factory

Pittsburgh foodies, get ready to embark on a flavorful journey at the newly opened Miami Potato Factory, located at 451 Melwood Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15213. This vibrant eatery brings a fresh twist to Mediterranean and American fry culture, offering a diverse menu that promises to satisfy your taste buds.

Menu Highlights:

  • Build Your Own Loaded Potato Bowl: Start with a base of perfectly cooked potatoes and customize with a variety of toppings to create your ideal meal.

  • Loaded Mexican Potato Bowl: A zesty combination featuring seasoned potatoes topped with classic Mexican flavors.

  • Loaded Pizza Potato Bowl: Experience the best of both worlds with this bowl that marries the flavors of a cheesy pizza with hearty potatoes.

  • Loaded Gravy Potato Bowl: Comfort food at its finest—potatoes smothered in rich, savory gravy.

The Miami Potato Factory is part of The Mill Food Co, situated in the big blue building at 451 Melwood Ave. Whether you're a fan of classic comfort food or eager to try innovative potato creations, this spot has something for everyone.

For more information and to explore the full menu, visit their official website.

🏗️ How New Trade Tariffs Could Shake Up Pittsburgh’s Real Estate Market

If you think trade policy is just for politicians and Wall Street execs, think again. The latest tariff changes could have major ripple effects for Pittsburgh’s industrial and commercial real estate markets—especially if you’re a business owner, investor, or even a homebuyer.

So, what’s happening?
The U.S. has slapped a 10% tariff on Chinese goods and a 25% tariff on steel and aluminum imports, while a potential 25% tariff on Canadian and Mexican goods is looming. These new policies could shake up everything from local supply chains to real estate development in port-adjacent cities like Pittsburgh.

Why should you care?

  • 🏭 Higher construction costs: Tariffs on steel and aluminum could mean more expensive building materials, which might drive up the cost of new commercial and residential projects.

  • 🚢 Supply chain shifts: Businesses relying on imported goods may rethink their locations, potentially shifting demand for warehouse and industrial space in and around Pittsburgh.

  • 📉 Market uncertainty: Investors and developers might pause or adjust projects, impacting everything from job growth to rental prices.

With businesses scrambling to adjust, Pittsburgh’s industrial real estate market could see big swings in demand, pricing, and future development. Whether you’re in real estate, logistics, or just trying to understand how this affects the local economy, this is one story to watch.

📉 Real Estate Commissions Are Dropping – Why Am I Even Telling You This?

Look, if I got paid every time I talked about real estate commissions going down, I’d—well, actually, I wouldn’t get paid much at all. But here we are! The market fundamentally changed last year when the National Association of Realtors (NAR) settled a $418 million lawsuit, shaking up how real estate agents earn their commissions. And now, the latest reports show that commission rates are continuing to slide.

How Did We Get Here?

Before the lawsuit, commissions were baked into the deal—sellers typically covered both their agent's commission and the buyer’s agent’s commission (usually splitting a total of 5–6% of the sale price). But after the NAR settlement? Game over for that old model. Sellers are now not required to pay a buyer’s agent, meaning buyers might need to negotiate and pay their own agent out of pocket.

The result? A downward trend in commissions across the board.

📉 Luxury Homes ($1M+): Buyer’s agent commissions dropped to 2.17% in Q4 2024, down from 2.33% a year prior. Wealthy buyers are either negotiating lower fees or skipping agents altogether.

📉 Mid-Range Homes ($500K–$999K): Average commissions fell to 2.26% from 2.36%. Not a massive drop, but enough to show the market shifting.

📉 Affordable Homes (Under $500K): Commissions dipped from 2.5% to 2.46%, meaning first-time buyers are also feeling the impact.

What Does This Mean for You?

🔹 Sellers: You might save some money by not covering a buyer’s agent fee, but that could limit your buyer pool—especially if they’re strapped for cash.

🔹 Buyers: You need to be prepared to negotiate your agent’s fee upfront and, in some cases, pay for their services yourself. (Pro tip: Some agents may offer flexible pricing or rebates—so don’t be afraid to ask!)

🔹 Agents: Well… let’s just say we’re learning to love coffee at home instead of $7 lattes. ☕

The Bottom Line

This isn’t breaking news, but the latest numbers confirm what we’ve all been expecting: Commissions are trending down, and the real estate industry is adjusting. Whether you’re a buyer, seller, or just watching from the sidelines, it’s worth knowing how these shifts could affect your next deal.

🎉 What’s Happening in Pittsburgh This Weekend?

The Steel City is buzzing with fun events this weekend, whether you’re looking to embrace the outdoors, dive into local culture, or just hang out with some fabulous flamingos. From unique festivals to can’t-miss experiences, there’s something for everyone. Here’s what’s going on in Pittsburgh!

🦩 Flock to Flamingo Fest at the National Aviary!

This weekend, embrace your inner flamingo at the National Aviary's Flamingo Fest! On Saturday, February 22, and Sunday, February 23, from 11 AM to 3 PM, don your finest pink attire and join fellow enthusiasts for a celebration of all things flamingo.

Event Highlights:

  • Fancy Flamingo Talk: Kick off your day at 10:30 AM in the Wetlands habitat, where experts will share fascinating facts about these vibrant birds.

  • Flamingo Discovery Zone: From 11 AM to 3 PM in the Learning Center, engage in activities like creating your own flamingo name tag, crafting finger puppets, and exploring the Flamingo Book Nook.

  • Meet a Colorful Bird Ambassador: At noon in the Helen M. Schmidt FliteZone™ Theater, get up close with one of the Aviary's stunning avian residents.

  • Wetlands Feeding: Also at noon, witness a feeding session in the Wetlands and observe flamingos in action.

  • Fabulous Flamingos Expert Talk: Conclude your visit at 2:30 PM with an in-depth discussion about flamingos in the Wetlands habitat.

For those feeling artistic, don't miss the Brushes & Birds: Flamingo Fest! session on Sunday, February 23, from 11 AM to 1 PM. Join local artist Maria DeSimone Prascak to paint your own flamingo masterpiece. Separate registration is required for this add-on experience.

All Flamingo Fest activities are included with general admission. For more details and ticket information, visit the National Aviary's official event page.

Get ready to fla-mingle and celebrate the fabulous flamingo!

🎭 Experience the Pittsburgh Mardi Gras Bar Crawl!

Get ready to unleash your inner party animal at the Pittsburgh Mardi Gras Bar Crawl on Saturday, February 22, 2025, starting at 4:00 PM. This festive event kicks off at The Library on Carson, located at 2302 E Carson St, Pittsburgh, PA 15203.

Event Highlights:

  • Multiple Venues: Embark on a spirited journey through some of Pittsburgh's most vibrant bars, each offering unique Mardi Gras-themed drinks and entertainment.

  • Exclusive Specials: Enjoy access to drink specials and promotions available only to bar crawl participants.

  • Festive Atmosphere: Immerse yourself in the Mardi Gras spirit with beads, masks, and lively music at every stop.

Tickets:

  • General Admission: Includes access to all participating venues and drink specials.

  • VIP Admission: Offers additional perks such as priority entry and exclusive giveaways.

Tickets are available for purchase here.

Important Information:

  • Age Requirement: Participants must be 21 years or older with a valid ID.

  • Dress Code: Festive Mardi Gras attire is encouraged but not mandatory.

  • Check-In: Begins at 4:00 PM at The Library on Carson.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to celebrate Mardi Gras in the heart of Pittsburgh with fellow revelers. Gather your friends, don your best purple, green, and gold attire, and prepare for an unforgettable night of fun and festivities!

For more details and to secure your spot, visit the official event page.

🎭 That’s a Wrap – Go Enjoy Pittsburgh This Weekend!

Whether you're flocking to Flamingo Fest or letting the good times roll at the Mardi Gras Bar Crawl, this weekend is shaping up to be a fun one in the 'Burgh. And while the real estate market is constantly shifting, one thing remains the same—Pittsburgh is a great place to live, work, and play.

If you’re thinking about buying, selling, or just want to talk shop over a drink (maybe at the bar crawl? 🍹), I’m always here to help. Let’s connect!

Until next time—enjoy the weekend, don’t lose your beads, and stay fabulous, Pittsburgh! 🎉🏡

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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