The dog days of summer are here, which means much more time spent outdoors, strolling the streets, noticing all of those “for sale” signs continuing to pop up in neighborhoods. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, relocating to — or boomeranging back to — the Burgh, or racing to find your new home before the hectic back-to-school season arrives, we have a sampling of what’s available in the City of Pittsburgh right now at an affordable price point.
For the next installment of our “Your Move” real estate series, we went in search of homes currently on the market for $250,000 or lower. We found a variety of residential styles in many quintessential neighborhoods across Pittsburgh — but don’t let the price tag be your only guidepost.
“One of the biggest mindset shifts I encourage is to stop asking, ‘What’s the nicest house I can buy for $250,000?’ and start asking, ‘Where can I buy today that I’ll be glad I bought five or 10 years from now?'” says Paul Sinnett, an associate broker with REMAX Infinity. “Pittsburgh is still one of the few cities where buyers have the opportunity to purchase a home. I always tell people they’re usually closer to homeownership than they think. There are often loan programs, down payment assistance, grants and other resources available that buyers simply don’t know about.”
Laurie Nelson, a senior loan officer with HMA Mortgage, discusses the process in terms of timing: “I think people are intimidated by the discovery phase and they postpone talking to a lender. Most people say they wish they didn’t wait. The misconceptions people have about the process causes them to hold out longer than they need to.” Nelson explains that while there is a smaller percentage of first-time homebuyers across the board nationally, it is important to know that Pennsylvania has a PHFA (PA Housing Finance Agency) loan that can be combined with an FHA (Federal Housing Administration) loan or a conventional loan.
“Using the PHFA grant and an FHA loan with seller assist, you could potentially purchase 333 Virginia Ave. (first listing below) with only $2,000 and have a monthly payment of $1,980 per month,” says Nelson. “I’d rather see a first-time homebuyer purchase a home they can comfortably afford with 3% or 5% down, than spend years saving for a higher down payment while the price of the homes keep rising and essentially moving away from them. Your first home doesn’t have to check every box, but it can be the first asset that gets you into building wealth and equity.”
In terms of inventory within the local real estate market, as of mid-August there are approximately 661 single-family, residential homes currently for sale or under contract at the price point of $250,000 or lower in the City of Pittsburgh. In Allegheny County, that number is approximately 2,291. For the month of August so far, the median current home sale price for the City of Pittsburgh is $259,950, and $313,125 for Allegheny County.
Sinnett, who is also a member of the LGBTQ+ Real Estate Alliance and Realtors Association of Metropolitan Pittsburgh, adds an important tip for our region:
“Often, the best opportunities are just beyond the hottest neighborhoods, where buyers can find more value and long-term upside.”
If your home-buying search so far has been focused on certain areas of the city, but you’re feeling priced out of neighborhoods like Lawrenceville, Squirrel Hill, Shadyside and Regent Square, we found plenty of options worth a thoughtful look. So what will $250,000 buy you in Pittsburgh right now?
333 Virginia Ave., Mount Washington
Asking price: $250,000
Style: American Foursquare
City living meets classic Foursquare architecture in an iconic Pittsburgh neighborhood where you’re just steps from those world-renowned panoramic views. Built in 1935, this brick home features three bedrooms and one full bathroom. Fusing timeless charm with thoughtful upgrades, the 1,218-square-foot home creates a welcoming impression along Virginia Avenue with its spacious front porch and clipped gable roof. Step through the green Craftsman-style door into a first floor bathed in natural light. Find architectural character throughout, from the well-maintained hardwood floors, traditional brick fireplace and arched doorways to the original laundry chute. Equipped with modern finishes and stainless steel appliances, the updated kitchen has a breakfast nook and open shelving. The green farmhouse-style cabinetry creates a cheery connection to the home’s front door. Step from the kitchen to a back porch providing an idyllic spot for starting and ending each day. Head upstairs to find three sizable bedrooms and a remodeled bathroom featuring contemporary design touches. The attic level offers bonus potential for adding a home office or media room. The walk-out basement includes a laundry area and convenient access to the grassy backyard. Off-street parking adds to the home’s livability.
Life along Virginia Avenue means you’re just minutes from all that the Grandview Avenue and Shiloh Street commercial districts have to offer and close to public transportation, major city attractions and highways. Key neighborhood amenities include Mount Washington’s Emerald View and Olympia parks, the Duquesne and Monongahela inclines and more. The neighborhood is home to the Mount Washington Community Development Corp., the recently renovated Ream Pool, a historic Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh branch and a farmers market at St. Mary of the Mount Church. Downtown Pittsburgh is just 2.3 miles away, and it takes approximately 20 minutes to drive to the airport.
748 Anaheim St., Schenley Heights
Asking price: $229,000
Style: Dutch Colonial
Life overlooking the city awaits in the neighborhood once affectionately known as “Sugar Top.” Built in 1930, this charming Dutch Colonial offers 1,456 square feet of living space with three bedrooms and two bathrooms. It is set back from the street, with a covered porch that offers a daily oasis for sipping your morning coffee, catching up on the news and relaxing with family and friends. Step through the farm-stye door into an open-concept main level where new flooring and natural light connect the versatile interior spaces. In the living room, a striking hearth provides a focal point flanked by built-in benches for curling up with a good book. Completely updated, the kitchen is equipped with white cabinetry, a dishwasher, ample storage and pendant lighting. Home chefs will love the center island and extra-large, side-by-side refrigerator. The kitchen door opens to the private backyard for easy outdoor dining. Each bathroom has been remodeled, with one featuring a shower and tub combination. The unfinished basement has plenty of space for a laundry area and storage needs.
Life in Schenley Heights offers a highly convenient location, with close proximity to Downtown Pittsburgh, Oakland’s universities and hospitals, major highways and the bustling Strip District. With a rich history, the residential enclave is known for its blend of historic architecture, modern homes and close-knit community. The neighborhood is home to the Schenley Heights Community Development Program and Robert W. Williams Memorial Park. Just over a mile down the hill is Schenley Park, boasting 456 acres of trails, woods and attractions.
1907 Larkins Way, South Side
Asking price: $250,000
Style: Row home
If you’re seeking row-house living in Pittsburgh’s historic South Side, don’t miss this property. Located along a quiet residential street in the South Side Flats, the 1,061-square-foot brick home features three bedrooms and two full bathrooms. A classic city stoop leads to beautiful hardwood floors inside. Exposed brick walls and a stone hearth create warmth for gatherings in the living room. Test recipes in the eat-in kitchen, which has stainless steel appliances and a welcoming farmhouse vibe. Wooden cabinetry and a blue color scheme make the kitchen a centerpiece. Vaulted ceilings bring character to the loft level, which offers space for a bedroom alongside a home office. The lower level features a finished recreation room with a built-in bar and full bathroom, making it perfect for entertaining. Coveted for city living is the home’s back deck.
Built in 1900, the Larkins Way home is located along a low-traffic, alley-style street that’s within walking distance to countless local shops, businesses and restaurants. Just south of the Monongahela River, the South Side Flats is home to one of Pittsburgh’s largest concentrations of 19th-century homes. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the East Carson Street Historic District is one of the largest Victorian Main Streets in the U.S. A mere 2 miles from Downtown Pittsburgh, 1907 Larkins Way is close to SouthSide Works, Southside Riverfront Park & Trail and Station Square. The property also provides easy access to multiple modes of public transportation, Oakland and the Parkway. The vibrant walkable neighborhood is home to the South Side Community Council, multiple grocery stores, City Theatre Company, the WYEP Community Broadcast Center and Club Cafe. Don’t miss annual community events such as the South Side Home & Garden Tour, Neighborhood Flea and Goat Fest.
3943 Evergreen Road, Observatory Hill
Asking price: $219,000
Style: Bungalow
Looking for a move-in ready home with a commute to Downtown that’s a breeze? Head up to scenic Observatory Hill on Pittsburgh’s North Side to check out this adorable brick bungalow with classic dormer windows. Built in 1930, the 1,773-square-foot home features three bedrooms and one full bathroom. Rare for city living, the home has a two-car detached garage and extra parking space in the driveway. Spend mornings sipping coffee on the tranquil front porch surrounding by mature landscaping blooming in the front garden. Interior architectural highlights include the hardwood floors, crown molding and large living room fireplace. The bright kitchen has plenty of cabinetry, decorative tile work, an oversize stainless steel refrigerator and a ceiling fan. From the dining room, step through the convenient sliding glass doors onto a spacious back deck that’s ready to go for outdoor dining and entertaining. The fenced-in yard is a gardener’s dream with established perennials such as oakleaf hydrangea, allium and Shasta daisies. In addition to the three second-floor bedrooms, the property has a finished attic level that’s great for a home office, playroom or additional bedroom.
Evergreen Road is just minutes to Downtown Pittsburgh, PNC Park, Acrisure Stadium, Ross Park Mall and major highways. Known for its wooded, hilly topography, Observatory Hill is home to noteworthy architectural styles, spanning grand Victorian, colonial revival and Tudor. The home also provides easy access to major local amenities, including Riverview Park and Allegheny Observatory, along with popular community events like the Observatory Hill House Tour.
2230 Fairland St., Overbrook
Asking price: $194,900
Style: American Foursquare
Twilight open house: Thursday, Aug. 20, 5-7 p.m.
If you’re craving more space to spread out within city limits, this Overbrook home situated on a double lot is calling your name. This classic orange brick Foursquare offers a home in the city with a suburban atmosphere. A spacious front porch with a beadboard ceiling makes a welcoming first impression. Built in 1930, the home features 1,296 square feet of living space with three bedrooms. Another key selling point? The home also has two full bathrooms. Preserved architectural details exude charm and character throughout, such as original hardwood floors and woodwork, hand-crafted built-ins and arched doorways. The distinctive tile work on the living room fireplace will provide a conversation piece for years to come. In the dining room, the custom floor-to-ceiling shelves built by the seller’s father marry stylish design with everyday functionality, while the large window maximizes natural light. The dining room opens into the updated kitchen, which is equipped with stainless steel appliances and a tile backsplash. The kitchen provides direct access to a small rear deck.
Upstairs, the refreshed main bathroom features a large walk-in shower. Additional home amenities include new central air conditioning, updated electrical, off-street parking and a storage shed. A property with a double lot brings expansive yard space. Conveniently located just 4.5 miles south of Downtown Pittsburgh, Overbrook provides easy access to Oakland, the South Side and major roadways. Making commuting convenient, the Fairland Street location offers great access to public transportation, including two bus routes and the T light rail system. The amenities of several Pittsburgh neighborhoods and suburbs are also easily accessed, including Brookline, Carrick, Castle Shannon and Baldwin.
7 Augustine St., Greenfield
Asking price: $199,900
Style: Colonial
If your home search criteria include a quiet neighborhood characterized by tree-lined residential streets, distinct topography with fantastic views, and a strong sense of community, this Greenfield home is worth a close look. Built in 1920, the two-story home has one full bathroom, two bedrooms and central air conditioning. The home’s facade is accented by a welcoming front porch, light blue shutters and a mature redbud tree. Inside, the main level features a spacious living room with well-maintained flooring, abundant natural light and an open floor plan.
Featuring a blue accent wall, the eat-in kitchen contains generous countertop and cabinet space along with a coveted pantry. Step right from the kitchen to the rear deck for al fresco relaxing, dining and entertaining. The updated full bathroom features a classic subway tile tub surround and a contemporary vanity design. Upstairs are two generously sized bedrooms with ample closet space and refreshed paint. One of the bedrooms even features a custom built-in closet wall, so organizing your wardrobe will be a delight. In addition to the rear deck, there is a level backyard with a fenced section, offering potential for gardening, pets or a patio. Situated on a 1,742-square-foot lot, the property also provides convenient rear access and off-street parking.
Greenfield is a particularly good place to look if your home-buying search is focused on the East End, but you’re feeling priced out of neighboring communities such as Squirrel Hill. Situated east of the Monongahela River about 5 miles from Downtown, Greenfield is bordered by Hazelwood, Squirrel Hill and Oakland, so there’s so much to take advantage of in every direction. The densely populated, walkable neighborhood offers lots of perks, including vibrant business districts along Greenfield and Murray avenues and convenient access to public transportation, the parkway and the Waterfront. Sharing a border with Greenfield, Schenley Park encompasses 456 acres of trails, woods and major city attractions. Primarily residential, Greenfield is home to multiple recreational fields and a swimming pool, along with seven churches and a synagogue. Year-round events are highlighted on the Greenfield Community Association website.
7 more Pittsburgh homes on the market for $250,000 or under
18 S. 13th St., South Side, $249,900
1715 Meadville St., Fineview, $235,000
307 Church Ave., Mount Oliver, $233,900
1430 Rockland Ave., Beechview, $230,000
323 Alice St., Knoxville, $189,900
665 Mayville Ave., Brookline, $164,900
