Buying a Home in Western PA: What You Need to Know Right Now

Navigating the current real estate landscape in Western Pennsylvania—especially around Pittsburgh—demands strategic insight. The Matt Durbin Team at eXp Realty Powered by PLACE is here to guide you through every step, helping you find your dream home efficiently and affordably.

1. Market Snapshot: Balanced with Opportunity

• Home prices remain steady yet affordable. In May 2025, the median sale price in Pittsburgh was $270K, up nearly 15% year-over-year.

• Inventory is growing. May listings hit 3,061 homes—a 12% increase month-over-month—offering buyers more choices .

• Homes aren't flying off the shelves. Median days on market currently average around 47–50 days, compared to last year’s quicker pace.

• Competitive but not crazy. About 47% of homes sold below asking, and 36% sold above, indicating healthy negotiation space .

Bottom line: This is a balanced market—prices are growing, but there's breathing room for smart buyers.

2. Why Now Is a Good Time to Buy

• Interest rates have stabilized around 6.5%–7% for 30-year mortgages .

• More inventory means more options—and better deals. With listings rising, you can avoid bidding wars.

• Pandemic-era low-rate homeowners aren’t selling—keeping prices stable.

• Cash buyers are strong competitors, accounting for over 30% of Pittsburgh purchases, often outpacing mortgage buyers .

3. Smart Strategies to Win

1. Get pre‑approved early.
   Stand out from cash buyers by showing financial readiness to close fast.

2. Target move-in‑ready homes.
   These are highly sought after, reducing renovation stress and maximizing value .

3. Act quickly in hot neighborhoods.
   In sought-after areas like Squirrel Hill or Regent Square, homes sell faster and may get multiple offers.

4. Think local growth.
   Pittsburgh gained momentum in multifamily permits—8.8 units per 10,000 residents—signaling future neighborhood vitality.

5. Stay in tune with rates.
   With rates holding steady, locking in now can save you hundreds monthly.

4. Leverage the Matt Durbin Team’s Proven Process

Our streamlined, proven approach ensures you:

• Zero in on homes that match your lifestyle and budget

• Get real-time alerts on listings and market shifts

• Craft competitive offers calibrated to today’s market

• Benefit from seasoned negotiation tactics

• Close confidently—with everything in place, from financing to inspections

5. What to Expect Next

• Spring/Summer brings peak choices, but late summer/fall can offer negotiation leverage.

• Mortgage rates may dip modestly, but any drop will be gradual.

• Pennsylvania inventory is forecast to grow moderately, providing long-term stability .

Your Takeaway

Western PA's housing market is currently in a buyer-friendly window. With manageable pricing, growing listings, and interest rates that are not skyrocketing, now is a strategic time to purchase—if you're prepared.

The Matt Durbin Team at eXp Realty Powered by PLACE is your ally in:

• Clarifying your priorities and budget

• Securing financing and crafting win‑ready offers

• Identifying homes poised for value growth

• Closing on your home with confidence and ease

Let’s Talk Next Steps

Ready to explore homes in Squirrel Hill, Lawrenceville, Mt. Lebanon, or anywhere in Allegheny County? Reach out for a personalized consultation and a curated list of the best available properties based on your goals.

Your Western PA home search starts now—with strategy, confidence, and the Matt Durbin Team in your corner.