5 Tips to Maximize the Space in Your Point Breeze Homes for Sale

5 Tips to Maximize the Space in Your Point Breeze Homes for Sale

No matter what size of home you have - from a one-bedroom house to a five-bedroom luxury home - having enough space is always a challenge. Everyone can benefit from maximizing all possible spaces in their Point Breeze homes for sale in Pittsburgh. Even if you’re not selling your home now, think of the process as an investment, a way to up the value of your home without burning a hole in your pocket.

To help, here are 5 really simple tips you can try:

1. Use floor-to-ceiling shelves.

The visual appeal of large bookcases filled with different colored books is simply an added benefit to having floor-to-ceiling bookshelves. Using these helps you to maximize the underutilized vertical space. Simply stacking boxes upon boxes of your stuff makes the home look cramped and messy. Using tall shelves, on the other hand, gives you added storage space which is easier to organize and decorate, as well.

2. Make every piece of furniture count.

If you have a small space in your newly acquired house for rent in Point Breeze Pittsburgh, it’s important to make sure that every item inside your home has a specific purpose and not merely added decoration. For example, instead of a full sofa set, why not invest on a quality couch and pair it with storage benches or foot stools with hollow spaces inside for storage? Always remember that when it comes to decorating a small space, having furniture that offer dual purposes will help you to make the space look even bigger and more organized.

3. Organize your kitchen.

The heart of every home, your kitchen, can easily get messy due to the fact that it’s one of the busiest rooms in the whole house. Apart from a room where you can store, prep, and cook food, the kitchen is also a space to entertain guests. As such, it must be both functional and welcoming. To maximize the space, think vertically and edit the items in your pantry and countertop. Free up spaces by removing expired goods, giving away unnecessary kitchen supplies, and organizing your food storage containers. One good rule of thumb is if you haven’t used the kitchen item in a year, it’s best to throw it out.

4. Trick the eyes.

Both design experts and luxury REALTORS® in Point Breeze Pittsburgh PA agree that a cost-efficient way to open up a small space is by creating an illusion of added space. To do this, you can strategically place mirrors on the walls of the small spaces in your home. You can also repaint a room in a lighter color and using horizontal lines with your curtains and wallpaper.

5. DE-CLUTTER.

Sometimes, homes really do have a lot of space but homeowners tend to have a lot of mess so the place becomes too cluttered and bit by bit, not enough space is left for any of the more important things in your home. Remember, you don’t have to put every knick knack you’ve picked up from your few trips abroad on display. Don’t fill every inch of space in your home with items that are simply there for display. Plan your overall look for a room, decide on whether a piece of furniture or artwork is important in the space, and edit accordingly.

For even more home decorating tips and expert advice on your home design budget, visit http://www.SoldByConnie.net. Start living your dream home today!

Call me, Connie Wolff at (724) 779-1427 for all your real estate needs. As a trusted luxury REALTOR® in Point Breeze Pittsburgh PA, I provide all my clients expert solutions, one yard at a time.

Must-Visit Restaurants in Point Breeze Pittsburgh PA

Must-Visit Restaurants in Point Breeze Pittsburgh PA

There’s nothing like looking at homes for sale or houses for rent in Point Breeze Pittsburgh PA to work out your appetite. Satisfy your food cravings at these top restaurants to dine in with family and friends:

Make Your Mark
Get ready for an artisanal coffee experience that’s a whole lot different from the usual coffee-to-go atmosphere you can get from any coffee chain around the block. Hang out in Make Your Mark’s beautiful back patio while sipping on a Coconut Latte or feasting on hummus and crostini, broccoli and white bean soup, or any of their healthy and savory lunch specials.

Make Your Mark is located at 6736 Reynolds St., Pittsburgh PA 15206.

Pino's Contemporary Italian Restaurant and Wine Bar
As executive chef and owner Joseph “Pino” Mico says, “ There’s more to Italian cuisine than just red sauce.” Start your dinner with a cheese plate (Chef’s selection of 3 cheeses, dried fruit mostarda, grapes, and candied nuts), followed with a Baby Kale Caesar salad. For the main dish, check out some of the Chef’s Features in the dinner menu, which includes a selection of fish, chicken, mussels, and pork dishes.

Pino’s is located at 6738 Reynolds St., Pittsburgh PA 15206.

Point Brugge Cafe
Try a Belgian-inspired cuisine by ordering a variety of food ranging from seafood to sandwiches while catching up with your friends. With their fresh ingredients and competitive pricing, you will surely have a great time here after checking out Point Breeze homes for sale in Pittsburgh.

Point Brugge Cafe is located at 401 Hastings St., Pittsburgh PA 15206.

The Cafe at the Frick
Located inside the grounds of The Frick Art and Historical Center, this cafe opened in 1994 and boasts of a wide selection of unique soups and salads, gourmet sandwiches and entrées. Try the Roast Beef Sandwich, Hanger Steak Kebab, or the Strozzapreti. The cafe is also famous for getting all the vegetables in the menu from Braddock Farms, which is located just beside the cafe. Non-members can make same day reservations and walk-in are accepted based on availability of seating.

The Cafe at the Frick is located at 7227 Reynolds St., Pittsburgh PA 15208.

Whether heading out for a quick lunch or for Sunday brunch, you’ll definitely enjoy eating at these must-visit restaurants in the Point Breeze neighborhood in Pittsburgh PA.

For more information on living in and around in Point Breeze Pittsburgh PA, check out http://www.SoldByConnie.net for expert advice, helpful tips, and more.

Call me, Connie Wolff at (724) 779-1427 for all your real estate needs. As a trusted luxury REALTOR® in Point Breeze Pittsburgh PA, I provide all my clients expert solutions, one yard at a time.

Top 4 Restaurants to Visit in Point Breeze Pittsburgh PA

Top 4 Restaurants to Visit in Point Breeze Pittsburgh PA

It’s lunch time and you’ve just ended another house hunting trip in Point Breeze homes for sale in Pittsburgh PA and you’re not sure where to go for good food. Don’t fret. Here’s a quick list of some of the top restaurants to dine in while in Point Breeze:

The Cafe at the Frick

Located at the acclaimed Frick Art & Historical Center, this cafe will warm up any art lover’s heart. The lush and picturesque setting of the place can instantly make you feel part of the art in the vicinity. Dine on delicious soups, salads, gourmet sandwiches, delectable desserts, some entrees, and their afternoon tea specialities. All the vegetables you can find in their menu are grown in a greenhouse right beside the cafe so customers are assured of its freshness. You don’t have to be a Frick member to enjoy the cafe as long as you make same-day reservations. Walk-ins are also accepted but it depends on the availability of seating. If you’re able to get seats, make sure to try the most reviewed food on their menu: the afternoon tea scones which came in plain, lemon poppy, and chocolate chip flavors (depends on availability). The Cafe at the Frick is located at 7227 Reynolds St., Pittsburgh PA.

Point Brugge Cafe “Your Neighborhood Gathering Spot”

Opened in 2005, this cozy European-style bistro offers some of the best Belgian-inspired cuisine on this side of the country. But don’t just take our word for it. Try their fresh and innovative cuisine. Pick from their selection of “Moules,” mussels which are fresh from Prince Edward Island and served with your choice of sauce (Classic White Wine, Red Curry, Spicy Mexican, and Tomato Herb) and crusty bread. If you’ve been house hunting houses for rent in Point Breeze Pittsburgh on a Sunday, drop by Point Brugge for Sunday brunch and enjoy Prix Fixie Brunch which comes with your choice of entree, side dish, and brunch beverage. Point Brugge Cafe is located at 401 Hastings St., Pittsburgh PA.

East End Food Co-Op Cafe

From fresh homemade soups, entrees and side dishes, the Co-Op Cafe’s famous weekend brunch offers a vegetarian take on your favorite dishes. Enjoy healthy finds such as whole grain pancakes, frittata made with fresh herbs and local eggs, house-made vegan sausages and patties with gravy, as well as a tofu veggie scrambler and vegan french toast. Apart from the cafe, the East End Food Co-Op also has a local market where you can shop for fresh, organic, and local produce. If you’re craving for brownies, cookies, and muffins, you can drop by the back of the store for the Co-Op Cafe’s very own bakery. East End Food Co-Op Cafe is located at 7516 Meade St., Pittsburgh PA.

Pino’s Contemporary Italian Restaurant and Wine Bar

Located in the East End neighborhood of Point Breeze in Pittsburgh PA, Pino’s offer a merge of executive chef and owner Joseph “Pino” Mico’s creative interpretations of Italian classics and delicious

Mediterranean cuisine. Established in 1994, Pino’s interiors are warm and inviting, with 19 tables and 10 seats at the bar, and features Italian mosaic tabletops and rich woods in beautiful color. Feast on the delicious items on their dinner menu which includes a long list of fresh fish, chicken, mussels, and pork dishes. Pino’s is located at 6738 Reynolds St., Pittsburgh PA.

Hungry yet? This restaurant list is a list that luxury REALTORS® in Point Breeze Pittsburgh PA will surely approve. So head out today and try any of the sumptuous dishes at these lovely restaurants.

For more information on living in and around Point Breeze Pittsburgh PA, check out http://www.SoldByConnie.net for expert advice, helpful tips, and more.

Call me, Connie Wolff at (724) 779-1427 for all your real estate needs. As a trusted luxury REALTOR® in Point Breeze Pittsburgh PA, I provide all my clients expert solutions, one yard at a time.

3 Best Traits Luxury Realtors® in Point Breeze Pittsburgh PA Should Have

3 Best Traits Luxury Realtors® in Point Breeze Pittsburgh PA Should Have

They say real estate agents are a dime a dozen. So how do you know which luxury Realtor® in Point Breeze Pittsburgh PA is the best for you? How do you choose who among the real estate agents you were able to find online and via friends or neighbors is the right luxury Realtor® for you?

Check out a quick list of the best qualities of a Realtor®:

A good Realtor® has a lot of experience in real estate.

It’s true what they say: “There’s no substitute for experience.” The ever-changing landscape of the real estate market can prove to be very treacherous to inexperienced real estate agents. Sellers and buyers should look for an experienced agent who will listen to what they need and match them with the buyer or home that fits them.

A good Realtor® knows the market very well.

Whether buying or selling, knowing the land is crucial to the success of any real estate agent and his or her client. The best Realtor® in Point Breeze Pittsburgh PA will help sellers understand the current market trends and advise them helpful pricing strategies so they can adjust accordingly to find the right buyer for their home for sale. As for buyers, a knowledgeable real estate agent is one who knows the community and neighborhood where the home for sale is located and give you advice on nearby schools, banks, doctors, shopping areas, and more.

A good Realtor® adapts to marketing and technology changes.

An agent should be tech-savvy to be able to adapt to the needs of the new generation of buyers and sellers. Nowadays, most searches for Point Breeze homes for sale in Pittsburgh start online. As such, a good real estate agent should have a commanding online presence and the technology resources (such as a smartphone, etc.) to make communication with their clients better.

Finding the best Realtor® in Point Breeze Pittsburgh PA isn’t easy if you don’t know where to start looking. Learn more about finding the right agent for your dream home by visiting http://www.SoldByConnie.net.

Call me, Connie Wolff at (724) 779-1427 for all your real estate needs. As a trusted luxury REALTOR® in Point Breeze Pittsburgh PA, I provide all my clients expert solutions, one yard at a time.

Top 5 Things Buyers Look for in a Realtor® in Point Breeze Pittsburgh PA

Top 5 Things Buyers Look for in a Realtor® in Point Breeze Pittsburgh PA

There are a lot of different types of buyers looking for Point Breeze homes for sale in Pittsburgh. Just as many as these buyers are the real estate agents who are willing to help them land their dream homes. However, real estate agents come and go, and with so many agents on the market, how do buyers know who to pick?

A good Realtor® communicates with their clients.

It’s fairly stressful to have to buy a house with an agent that isn’t a good communicator. As a liaison between you and the seller (or  the seller’s agent), your real estate agent should keep you with everything related to the property or properties you’re looking to buy. While some information might feel insignificant to agents because they’ve been in the business for a long time, it still is important to share it to clients who are new to the industry.

A good Realtor® can adapt to the needs of their client.

Not all clients are the same. Some buyers prefer to communicate via email, others via calls, and some prefer a quick text message. A good Realtor® should be able to adapt to what their buyer’s preferred method of communication is so that the buyers wouldn’t feel ignored or smothered with too much information.

A good Realtor® can listen well and “read” their client.

Listening and reading a client is very important. Buyers need to feel that their luxury Realtor® in Point Breeze Pittsburgh PA understands what they want and need in a home.

A good Realtor® is aware of the time frame of a client.

Timing is very important when it comes to buying a home for sale. Your real estate agent should know if you’re in a hurry to find a home and be able to adapt working in a tighter time frame. They will be able to prioritize what needs to be done first and what can be done at a later time.

A good Realtor® will be able to give you their last 15 clients as references.

One of the best ways to determine whether an agent is good for you or not is by asking their previous clients about their experience working with said agent. A good agent should be able to give you a list of their last 15 clients, not selected ones. These clients should be able to give positive feedback about your agent.

Finding the best Realtor® in Point Breeze Pittsburgh PA isn’t easy if you don’t know where to start looking.

Learn more about finding the right agent for your dream home by visiting http://www.SoldByConnie.net.

Call me, Connie Wolff at (724) 779-1427 for all your real estate needs. As a trusted luxury REALTOR® in Point Breeze Pittsburgh PA, I provide all my clients expert solutions, one yard at a time.

5 Simple Staging Tips for Your Point Breeze Home for Sale

5 Simple Staging Tips for Your Point Breeze Home for Sale

Preparing your house is important before putting it up on the market. This process is called home staging. Home staging aims to make Point Breeze homes for sale in Pittsburgh appealing to potential buyers and eventually selling them at a respectable price. Professional "stagers" can be hired anywhere but it can be expensive. So instead of hiring one, check out these simple staging tips for your property.

Clean your house. Nothing is more enticing than clean surfaces, shiny floors, and clear gleaming windows. This is the easiest and simplest way to prepare your house and present it. While cleaning, you can also clear some clutter away so that more space is visualized by potential buyers.

After scrubbing your house, make sure that it smells good. Pets, for one, can leave some odors that are not pleasing to all people. The smell of a house when people comes in is part of the first impression. You can try using air freshener or baking cookies before showcasing your home to get that lovely aroma of freshly-baked goods wafting around the house.

Rearranging your furniture can be done to imply a certain atmosphere. For example, you can try moving your sofas, lamps, and table in the living room to have an inviting atmosphere for conversation. The best REALTOR® in Point Breeze Pittsburgh PA may also advise you to repaint some walls into neutral colors for a cleaner and newer look.

For some potential buyers, closets are a selling point. Dusting off and opening those closets for open-house visitors can give you an advantage. Be sure to free some space to it to make it look more spacious.

If your home comes with a fireplace, expert luxury REALTORS® in Point Breeze Pittsburgh PA will advise you to maximize this feature. Show off your fireplace by making sure it’s spotless. After a thorough clean, use a stone color enhancer and polish those bricks for a shinier finish.

Follow these simple and inexpensive ways to stage your house. Before you know it, offers from potential buyers will soon be coming in. To get even more tips on selling your Point Breeze PA luxury home, you can check out http://www.SoldByConnie.net.

Call me, Connie Wolff at (724) 779-1427 for all your real estate needs. As a trusted luxury REALTOR® in Point Breeze Pittsburgh PA, I provide all my clients expert solutions, one yard at a time.

Simple Staging Tips to Help Sell Your Point Breeze PA Home Fast

Simple Staging Tips to Help Sell Your Point Breeze PA Home Fast

Selling a home is not an easy task. There are a lot of factors that sellers must consider when it comes to making sure that they get the price that they want and sell as fast as possible. However, having a Point Breeze PA home for sale in Pittsburgh means that you need to invest in staging your home so that potential buyers are able to visualize how they’ll maximize the space. While professional “stagers” abound, you don’t need to pay the extra fee just to spruce up your home.

Check out some simple staging tips below:

Cut the clutter. Who would want to buy a home filled with previous homeowner’s clutter? Nobody needs to see your collection of vintage stamps or your kids’ stuffed toys in the bedroom or your family photos adorning the hallway. Buyers want to see the potential of their home and imposing your personal style on the space is the not best way to go. Homes in Carillon Lakes community with lots of clean and clear surfaces show the buyers just how much space the home has, making it more appealing in their eyes.

But don’t clear out everything just yet. Find the perfect balance between clean and lived-in by incorporating a few elements that make it homey and appealing. Try bringing in fresh flowers arranged beautifully on a tall clear vase or a bowl of lemons by the sink or a basket of fresh fruits on the dining table.

Choose chic neutral colors for the walls of your home. If you have time to paint the walls of your Carillon Lakes community home for sale, choose neutral midtones like a warm beige or mocha. Check out Shale by Benjamin Moore, Accessible Beige by Sherwin-Williams, Montpelier Ashlar Gray by Valspar, or Frech Grey by Behr.

Showcase how to maximize awkward areas. If you have an unused nook or have enough room in the space under the stairs,. consider  turning it into a usable work space or storage area. You can set up a work station, turn it into your pet’s private sanctuary, or fill it with shelves for added book storage. What’s important is you’re able to provide the potential buyers different options into using every square foot of your house for sale.

Follow these simple and inexpensive ways to stage your house. Before you know it, offers from potential buyers will soon be coming in. To get even more tips on selling your Point Breeze PA luxury home, you can check out http://www.SoldByConnie.net.

Call me, Connie Wolff at (724) 779-1427 for all your real estate needs. As a trusted luxury REALTOR® in Point Breeze Pittsburgh PA, I provide all my clients expert solutions, one yard at a time.

Tips for First-Time Buyers of Point Breeze PA Luxury Homes

Tips for First-Time Buyers of Point Breeze PA Luxury Homes

Buying a new house for the first time can be a real challenge and may bring more stress into your life. The idea of it may be exciting - with the new house, new community, and some new furniture, but you must be ready to try to learn as much as you can before purchasing one of Point Breeze homes for sale in Pittsburgh. Doing some research and applying these simple tips will help make your experience easier and save you from committing some common mistakes that first-time house buyers do.

1. Create or determine feasible and realistic long-term goals and decide what kind of property is suited with your plans. While looking through homes for sale, ask yourself what type of property will benefit you more in the future. Nowadays, there are several options you can consider, such as a condo, a townhouse, or a house with 2 to 4 units.

2. Save money and prepare for the expenses ahead. After saving up enough money for down payment for your Point Breeze PA luxury home, you may then list down the other expenses that you should expect after purchasing your new home. These may come as monthly bills, which may include mortgage, fees, insurance, and regular fix-up costs. You may also start saving for an emergency fund. This will serve as your money in cases of unexpected expenses occur.

3.  Home inspection is important. It is better to hire the services of a home inspector to thoroughly check the house you plan to buy. By doing this, you will conveniently discover the overall condition of the house in terms of quality and safety. Based on the results of the home inspection, you can assess the offer you’ll make for that house.

4. Luxury Realtors® in Point Breeze Pittsburgh PA can assist you with making an offer and giving it to the seller. The  seller would in turn review the offer and may either accept it or make a counter-offer. This process may go back and forth until both parties have reached an agreement.

5. Know how much mortgage you are qualified for. Lenders may give you an idea of how much you can really afford when buying a new house for the first time. This depends on a lot of things such as how much you earn each month and how long have you been staying at your current job.

Apart from these simple tips, a first time home buyer should remember the importance of knowing the process beforehand and not rushing into things.

To know more about buying a Point Breeze PA luxury home and its surrounding communities, visit http://www.SoldByConnie.net.

Call me, Connie Wolff at (724) 779-1427 for all your real estate needs. As a trusted luxury REALTOR® in Point Breeze Pittsburgh PA, I provide all my clients expert solutions, one yard at a time.