Hi everyone,

This week’s email is going to look a little different. It’s off-format, a little sappy, and more personal than usual. As we close out 2024, I wanted to step back from the typical real estate updates and take a moment to reflect on the year—on what is, what was, and what will be.

If this is your first time here, welcome! I’m Pittsburgh’s Go-To Realtor, Expert in Luxury Homes & Strategic Real Estate Solutions , and someone who’s passionate about helping people find more than just a house—I help them find their next chapter. Over the years, I’ve sold millions of dollars worth of real estate, built incredible relationships, and had the privilege of watching clients turn houses into homes.

As we wrap up the year, I’d like to share some of the lessons, stories, and gratitude that have shaped my 2024. I hope you’ll find something meaningful in these reflections as you look ahead to 2025.

Let’s dive in.

What Is, What Was, What Will Be

This year has been a whirlwind—a blur of wins, lessons, and moments that made me pause and wonder, “How did I get here?”

What is
I’m in a business where I get to witness life happening in real time. A young couple nervously buying their first home, unsure if they’re making the right decision. A few months later, they tell me they’re expecting, and I realize that home will be where their child takes their first steps. It’ll be where they decorate a nursery, host birthday parties, and eventually, tearfully pack boxes as their family outgrows it.

What was
I’ve worked with people chasing opportunity, moving to Pittsburgh to start a new chapter, only to find life pulling them somewhere else. One couple left behind career dreams to move closer to family, trading what they thought they wanted for what they truly needed. It was humbling—a reminder that homes aren’t just investments; they’re places where life happens, in all its messy, unpredictable beauty.

I’ve helped investors take chances on properties that scared them at first. Watching someone bet on themselves is powerful. Watching them win is even better. I’ve seen empty spaces transformed into thriving rentals—a vision becoming reality through persistence and grit.

What will be
I’ve learned that real estate isn’t just about solving problems or closing deals; it’s about showing up. Following up. Being there when someone needs guidance, even if they don’t know how to ask for it. Leads are lifelines, yes, but it’s deeper than that. It’s about building trust, staying visible, and making the effort to remind people: “I’m here for you.”

This year taught me that not everything goes as planned. Deals fall apart. Dreams shift. Sometimes, you lose, and you have to sit with that loss, knowing it’s part of the process. But the losses? They teach you. They sharpen you.

If there’s one thing I know, it’s this:
Success isn’t about the big wins. It’s about the quiet persistence, the hard lessons, and the relationships you build along the way. It’s about recognizing that what is right now may not look like what was, and that’s okay—because what will be is still unwritten.

So here’s my advice—not just for real estate, but for life:

• Show up. Even when it’s hard.

• Stay curious. Learn from every mistake.

• Bet on yourself, even when you’re scared.

• And never, ever underestimate the power of a relationship.

To my clients, my friends, my family—you’ve trusted me with your stories, your goals, your lives. Thank you. I don’t take it lightly.

Here’s to 2025: a year of persistence, resilience, and whatever else life decides to throw at us.

What is, what was, what will be—it’s all worth reflecting on.

This photo above was really just to break up the content. I have a FEW more things I want to tell you. If you couldn’t tell, I love my cats. A little about me, I have 3 of them. Mochi, Salt, and Pepper. I adopted all three of them from the same people. Fun fact: they were all fostered by someone I met at an open house I was hosting in the beginning of my career. Anyways.. if you’ve made it this far in the newsletter, I’m still going to give you some of the usuals such as 2 standout properties that caught my eye this week, some homeowner tips, something fun, and SCHTUFF happening this week locally, New Years Edition. Check below 👇

Standout Properties

This week’s hidden gems:

• 1701 Montpelier Ave, Dormont, PA
  This charming 4-bedroom home in Dormont offers modern updates and timeless character. Features include a renovated kitchen, open-concept living space, and second-floor laundry. Take a closer look.

  3928 Laurel Oak Circle, Murrysville, PA
  Set on nearly two acres, this spacious 4-bedroom property is a dream for those seeking privacy and luxury. Highlights include a two-story living room, chef’s kitchen, and tranquil outdoor patio. View the property here.

Homeowner Tip: Don’t Overlook the Warranty

After closing, many home warranties offer rekey services as part of their coverage. This is an affordable way to improve your new home’s security and start fresh. It’s a small detail that’s often forgotten but makes a big difference! As many of these I negotiate for people, they ALWAYS forget about this little known fact, even if I do make it a point to tell them. Hint hint, I always do tell them.

Something Fun - Happening in Pittsburgh

Happening Locally

Highmark First Night Pittsburgh
Join the city's largest New Year's Eve celebration in the Cultural District, featuring live music, dance, theater, visual arts, and family-friendly activities. The evening culminates with the raising of the 'Future of Pittsburgh' ball and a fireworks display at midnight. Learn more here.

Toast to Tomorrow New Year's Eve Bar Crawl
Kick off 2025 with an unforgettable bar crawl through Pittsburgh's vibrant nightlife scene. Enjoy exclusive drink specials, access to multiple venues, and a festive atmosphere. The event starts at 6:00 PM on December 31. Get the details here.

New Year's Eve Dinner Cruise & Tour
Sail into 2025 aboard the Gateway Clipper Fleet with a catered dinner and entertainment from 6–8 PM. Enjoy stunning views of Pittsburgh's skyline as you celebrate the New Year on the water. Learn more here.

Le Rêve Pop-Up VIP Club at Roost
Ring in the New Year with luxury at Le Rêve, featuring an exquisite atmosphere and luxe vibes overlooking Market Square. Dance to world-class DJs and enjoy top-notch service with VIP table options. Learn more here.

New Year's Eve Soirée at Roost
Celebrate with a lavish soirée at Roost, offering a dynamic atmosphere and views of Market Square. Dance the night away with music from DJ Bonics and Petey C, and consider VIP packages for an elevated experience. Learn more here.

Did You Know?
Pittsburghers enjoy a unique tradition of sharing a New Year’s Pretzel—a sweet, doughy treat thought to bring good luck for the year ahead. Make sure to grab one from your favorite bakery before they sell out!

Thinking About Buying or Selling?

For more details and ticket information, visit the respective event websites.

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

Duration: 15 mins

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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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