Karen Marshall’s Blog

First time homebuyers have less than 12 weeks to qualify for the $8,000 Federal tax credit.  The closing must occur before the deadline of November 30, 2009.  The challenge now is to move quickly to meet the imposed deadline.  While time is short and competition is high there is an incredible selection of homes for first time home buyers.  Mortgage rates are still really attractive.  Affordability is at its highest in 28 years.  Don’t miss out on the unbelievable opportunity.  Many first time homebuyers will pay less for their mortgage than they do for rent.  The Karen Marshall Group combines their use of technology and market knowledge to assist all buyers in today’s market.  We can help you reduce the time it takes for your home search without cutting corners.  For more details on the Federal tax credit contact The Karen Marshall Group at 412-831-3800 x126.

Karen Marshall invites you to join her tomorrow evening from 7-9pm for a panel discussion on KDKA TV Teen Driving Community Forum at Peters Township High School. Panelists include representatives from PA State Troopers, Ford Motor Co, Westfield Insurance Co, Governors Highway Safety Association, Local Community Leaders, Teens, Principal Tom Hadjus and Karen.

Join Karen Marshall at the Peters Township Chamber of Commerce speaker luncheon on April 29th starting at 11:30 at Atria’s Restaurant.  Learn more about the state of the current Real Estate Market.

According to an article I read on Forbes.com, Pittsburgh ranks #3 on the 5 Strongest Housing Markets.

The article states:  “The city built on steel had its crisis two decades ago.  Now, it’s one of America’s cleanest cities.  Carnegie Mellon University attracts some of the best and brightest students, and some of the old steel mills are being converted to research parks.  Pittsburgh is grayer than most cities:  16% of the population is over 65, well above the national average of 12% Retirees, living on social security and pensions, are less affected by job losses.  Housing prices ended the third quarter at a median $122,000, about where they have been for the last three years, according to data from the National Association of Realtors.  Moody’s forecasts more of the same for this year.  With so many markets in sunnier places crashing and burning, being dull has its advantages.” (Forbes.com - America’s Strongest Housing Markets)

The prediction is that no metro area will see price increases before the end of this year but the strongest metro areas will be flat at best - that is better than the price drop of 15% forcasted by Moody’s on average.  Now is the time to consider purchasing real estate.  Once you hear the market has improved then prices will be increasing again.  If you are thinking of moving up, you may not gain as much on the sale of your current home but you will make it up on the purchase of your new home.  If you are looking for some investment opportunities, there is no better time than today.

Call us for a consultation on how we can help you reach your real estate goals.

The Steelers are headed to the Super Bowl!  Our new President has taken the reins of the country.  We even saw some sunshine in Pittsburgh this week!  What a week!

The real estate market in our area fared well in 2008 compared to other areas of the country.  According to an article posted on line today at the Pittsburgh Business Times website, the average sales price appreciated approximately 1% in the five county area.  We experienced a 3% appreciation rate from 2006 to 2007.  I would say that we did pretty well when you consider how other areas of the country were devastated.  The foreclosure rate was down slightly from 2007.  Unfortunately, sales volume was down as well.  

The positive outlook is that houses are still selling in our area.  It may take a little more effort to make your home stand out from the competition but it is time well spent.  Some of the strategies to consider include staging techniques that help declutter and depersonalize your home.  Another strategy a lot of sellers are using today is providing some type of incentive to the buyer which could be a buyer closing cost credit, mortgage rate buydowns or the extravagant trip to Italy!  I currently have homes for sale in a varied price range where the seller is employing this strategy.  Do something to stand out above the pack!

I would be happy to consult with you and prepare a specialized marketing plan to assist you in the sale of your home.  We provide a free pre-inspection to every seller who lists with The Karen Marshall Group.

Welcome to The Karen Marshall Group Blog. We look forward to bringing you informative and interesting information. My name is Karen and I am the leader of The Karen Marshall Group.  I am a life long resident of the Pittsburgh area and have been actively involved in the Peters Township community where I raised my two sons.  My knowledge includes New Construction, Residential, and Commercial.  I enjoy working with buyers and sellers.  I am a people person and enjoy helping buyers and sellers accomplish their real estate goals.  To further serve your real estate needs I have put together a team of professionals.  Jeanne McDade and Ann Gavlick are experienced, proven real estate agents with experience working with sellers, buyers and new construction.  Both Jeanne and Ann are also actively involved in the Peters Township community.  Keeping us all in order is my Executive Assistant Julia Massie.  Her attention to detail, computer skills and work ethic have enhanced the services The Karen Marshall Group provides its’ clients.  A group that works as a team makes THE DIFFERENCE!

This is my first adventure into the blogging world.  It is my hope that you will return to our blog regularly.   

When You Buy or Sell a home through Keller Williams Realty and The Karen Marshall Group you have made the RIGHT decision!

Welcome to Karen Marshall’s Blog! This blog will provide you with valuable information, tips, and general insight into the real estate market in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.