Nh winter 2015 lowres by Jaimee Greenawalt

NEWHOME Winter 2015

Pittsburgh’s Eastern Housing Market

Looking Toward The Future Patio Homes

Enjoying Life Free of Home Maintenance

Pittsburgh’s Apartment Boom

Changes in Demographics

Prove to be Influential

Brennan Builders Reinventing Home Design Residential Construction Listings

First Time Home Buyer? If you’re a first time home buyer or a family wanting to purchase a home, First National Bank is ready to help you get into the home

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of your dreams. Our Family Home Ownership Program* offers you many financial advantages: • Low to no down payment • No points • No Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) • Reduced closing and title insurance costs • Minimum credit score of 620 • Closing cost assistance permitted (restrictions apply) At First National Bank, you can count on responsive service tailored to your needs. Call us today, and we’ll work together to turn your dream home into a reality. *Available on one-unit, single-family primary residence. Maximum purchase prices apply and may vary by market. Home ownership counseling required. Income and other restrictions apply. Call today for details.

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what’s inside NEW HOME 05 WINTER 2015

Publisher’s Message

Housing In Pittsburgh’s Eastern Communities Points east are becoming a growth market with its abundance of property. “There’s a product for everyone, and a price point for everyone.”

Maintenance Free, OneLevel Living Patio homes may be just the lifestyle your looking for!

Apartment Living In Pittsburgh

There is a boom in apartment development that has changed the mix of our housing stock and the share of Americans who no longer see owning a home as part of the American dream.

Builder Profile

Brennan Builders, Inc. Brennan’s new Expressions Home Studio is reinventing home design for Pittsburgh home buyers.

Residential New Construction Listings New residential developments, locations and home sites. New construction listings to help you discover a home to match your lifestyle.

www.greaterpittsburghnewhome.com

Quality Carved in Stone!

Kitchen designed by: Kitchen & Bath Concepts of Pittsburgh, LLC; Photography by: Craig Thompson Photography

Granite ~ Marble ~ Quartz Superior craftsmanship, professional installation, and a wide selection of materials and colors are the most important reasons why natural stone from Ultimate Granite is your best choice for home and office surfaces.

To schedule an appointment, give us a call or visit us at www.ugsurfaces.com.

Publisher’s Message

PUBLISHER

Kevin J. Gordon kgordon@carsonpublishing.com GRAPHIC DESIGN

Jaimee D. Greenawalt PRODUCTION

Carson Publishing, Inc. design@carsonpublishing.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jeff Burd Linda Simon Melissa McKrell Hank Walshak CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Jan Pakler Photography Weaver Homes Brennan Builders, Inc. AHP J. Harmon Kathy Zdilla Photography Carson Publishing, Inc. Jason Corna Eddy Homes Scarmazzi Homes ADVERTISING SALES

Kevin J. Gordon 412-548-3823 X202 kgordon@carsonpublishing.com SPECIAL THANKS

Bob and Tricia Brennan from Brennan Builders, Inc., Bill and Bonnie Weaver at Weaver Homes, Paul and Lisa Scarmazzi from Scarmazzi Homes, Builders Association of Metropolitan Pittsburgh, Coldwell Banker Real Estate, Dollar Bank, Heartland Homes, Howard Hanna Real Estate Services, Northwood Realty, Ryan Homes and Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices. MORE INFORMATION

Greater Pittsburgh’s NEW HOME is published quarterly by Carson Publishing, Inc., 500 McKnight Park Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15237; www.greaterpittsburghnewhome.com 412-548-3823 No part of this magazine may be reproduced without written permission by the Publisher. All rights reserved. This information is carefully gathered and compiled in such a manner as to ensure maximum accuracy. We cannot, and do not, guarantee either the correctness of all information furnished nor the complete absence of errors and omissions. Hence, responsibility for same neither can be, nor is, assumed.

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THE ECONOMIC CHANGE

t’s happening here in Pittsburgh. A boom in apartment development that has been going on for years now that has changed our mix of housing stock.

For several years after the financial crisis of 2008, banks did much less mortgage lending and people could not afford to own homes. This shift gave rise to a change in how apartment living was viewed and many embraced the flexibility and reduced risk of renting. In Greater Pittsburgh, however, the expansion of the apartment market had more to do with job growth, demographic changes and a revitalized city, rather than a byproduct of a housing decline. For decades, our population was not growing, homes were relatively affordable and there weren’t many young people moving to Western PA. Many apartment buildings were full but the demand for units was soft enough that rents didn’t go up. All of these conditions made apartment developers look elsewhere to build. Everything changed in 2009! Read about these economic and demographic conditions that show how apartments became an attractive choice for living in Greater Pittsburgh. Another trend that is gaining momentum here in Pittsburgh is the investment in patio homes. This maintenance-free, one-level living lifestyle is attracting homebuyers who want to focus on living their lives instead of maintaining their homes. Baby Boomers, empty nesters and younger people in general are spending their weekends doing fun things instead of being bogged down with household chores. Also in this issue of NEW HOME, we introduce you to Bob and Tricia Brennan’s new home design studio in Evans City. This concept opened in November 2014 after years of thoughtful planning. When building a home with Brennan Builders, Inc. you’ll have the comfort of making all your design selections under one roof in this 5,000 square foot studio. You can touch and feel all the products available for your new home, creating endless opportunities and making your building process easier. Remember, before you buy, build or remodel, Greater Pittsburgh’s NEW HOME is required reading. 2015 looks like it’s going to be a great year. All the best!

About the cover: Brennan Builders new Expressions Home Studio in Evans City.

Kevin J Gordon

www.greaterpittsburghnewhome.com

The Edgewater at Oakmont project, image supplied by Kacin Companies.

Eastward Home Building Takes a Turn

6 GREATER PITTSBURGHâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S NEW HOME

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hether or not Horace Greeley actually uttered the words “Go West, Young Man,” the sentiment has lingered as the direction to move for more refined living. But that tide has turned and in southwestern Pennsylvania, custom home building is beginning to enjoy a resurgence in the eastern suburbs and beyond. Some attribute the eastward movement to availability of land while others cite the needs of varied age groups looking for a different lifestyle. The Westmoreland Chamber of Commerce web site purports “average monthly rental rates, reasonable prices for utilities, and one of the lowest property tax rates in the state of Pennsylvania make this a prime location for individuals and families of all sizes … the effective and convenient network of highways make it easy for residents to travel to nearby major metropolitan areas.” Yet, the 2008 national recession has continued to dog the home building market, which is, however, slowly experiencing a recovery. In Westmoreland County alone, building permit estimates are inching their way upward but still significantly below numbers of 10 to 15 years past, as reported by the U.S. Census Bureau.

www.greaterpittsburghnewhome.com

Fred Williams, President of the Westmoreland Professional Builders Association admits it’s been a fairly lean market for custom homes in the last several years but sees it as starting to turn. “Builders here are not building anywhere near what we did 10 years ago, but we are seeing a lot more interest, especially on the custom home side.” Why Westmoreland County you may ask? Williams shares that, in addition to good school districts and a wide range of cultural and recreational offerings, there is still some semi-rural areas where a potential buyer could “purchase a plot of land to build that upscale dream home” if his preference is to live outside of a planned community. But he has also witnessed some developments starting to fill up, examples being those in Hempfield and Ligonier Townships. “There may also be some plans with two or three lots that haven’t sold, which now may be a better value,” he added. “Some lots may be oddly shaped but buyers and builders are fitting the home to the lot.”

Darlene Hunter, Vice President and Regional New Home Manager, Howard Hanna Real Estate, has spent the past four years learning and understanding Pittsburgh’s east region market, viewing the area as a “moderate” market in terms of pricing. “The Isles at the Highland in Plum Borough initially featured single family homes built by Ryan Homes and multifamily homes by Meritage,” she said. “The single family homes ranged from $270,000 to $300,000, but a new home plan model has developed for broader buyer appeal.” Hunter continued that the more affordable homes featured a changed floor plan making it more amenable to the needs of a greater number of buyers. “The plan was much more flexible and priced in the low to mid $200,000s, drawing from communities such as Penn Hills and Plum,” she said. “There really is a need for this type of product.” This planned, residential community offers classic designs, convenience and superior construction nestled among the rolling terrains of Old Leechburg Road in Plum Borough, Allegheny County. The

Isles also boasts a clubhouse and community pool for those choosing a lifestyle in Pittsburgh’s eastern suburbs. The single family homes present high ceilings as well as other standard amenities and range from just over 2,200 to 2,760 square feet. Multifamily base models start at 1,650 square feet with available add-ons. Both dwellings avail themselves of open green spaces and lit sidewalks, adding to its charm. Another option that has great appeal is realized in new urban neighborhoods featuring a plethora of amenities. Case in point – The River’s Edge at Oakmont, a mixed use neighborhood a mere 25 minutes from Downtown Pittsburgh. This Brooks & Blair and Rothschild Doyno Collaborative riverfront neighborhood features seven different neighborhoods suited to individual tastes. Single family homes, apartments and condominiums dot the waterfront with each area offering varied views of the river, parks, public spaces, and tree-lined streets among others. “The areas that work best are those that are ‘walkable’ neighborhoods such as

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| Winter 2015

The River’s Edge,” explained Hunter. “Here, one can use the clubhouse and walking trails or walk to shops, restaurants, and many other local features, all making this project successful.” Jason Corna, Director of Marketing and Sales for Kacin Companies of Murrysville, also believes that a walkable lifestyle is becoming more popular with Kacin currently engaged in its largest development to date - the Edgewater at Oakmont project. Several years ago, Kacin and EQA Landmark Communities of Pittsburgh reclaimed property long vacated by the former Edgewater Steel Plant, forging a community echoing traditional neighborhoods that “recall the best of Oakmont – unified architecture and walkable streets” – according to Kacin’s Web site. Prices in the 242-home project perched on 34 acres, featuring park, cottage and paired homes, manor flats, townhomes, courtyard homes and condominiums, range from the $300,000s to riverfront homes in the $600,000s with square footage for the

various styles ranging from 1,700 to 3,500 square feet. “With less maintenance, people have more time to themselves but with good proximity to the city [of Pittsburgh],” Corna said. “With a move to a walkable lifestyle, everything is at their fingertips.” Within this tree-lined community, he also noted that residents are ranging from ages 25 to 87, including empty nesters, out-

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of-state buyers hailing from 19 different states, and those coming back to the area to retire or for job opportunities. With land development started in March 2010 and construction in March 2011, some 118 of the 178 homes have sold to date. A 63-unit upscale apartment building is also available with site work started for the first retail portion coming soon. Walking trails

SHADYSIDE, PA

SHoPAtfEAtHErS.com

www.greaterpittsburghnewhome.com

connect Edgewater to downtown Oakmont where restaurants and shopping await. Green spaces make for serene meeting spots for friends and families in this sustainable community in both LEED certified (Leadership in Environmental and Energy Development) design and feel. Farther east lie the rolling hills of Westmoreland County, with its 1,025 square miles of urban, suburban and rural land masses. The U.S. Census Bureau reports that homeowners comprise 76.3 percent of this county’s population compared to the state average of 69.8 percent. And, there are custom home builders aplenty building in high end neighborhoods despite the building downtown of 2008/2009. One such premiere custom home builder is Ray Snoznik, President, R.A. Snoznik Construction Inc, Murrysville, who has built custom homes in Allegheny, Butler and Westmoreland Counties since the early 1980s. A Lower Burrell native, Snoznik has built homes in

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plans such as The Estates at Timbercrest in Unity Township, Northpointe in Hempfield Township, Cherry Knoll in

Farther east lie the rolling hills of Westmoreland County, with its 1,025 square miles of urban, suburban and rural land masses.

Delmont, and his most recent endeavor, The Village at Stonegate in Penn Township, all located within Westmoreland County. Snoznik finds that there may be a number of attractive elements respon-

sible for some of the outmigration from areas such as Monroeville, Penn Hills and others including: overall lower taxes, good school districts, great transportation routes and the reasonable cost of land. “There’s growth for younger buyers in the northern and other niche segments of the county,“ he said. “I’m seeing a more mature buyer. Baby boomers are among my #1 custom-

ers.” Despite the earlier recession, he sees change resulting in an upturn, especially in his growing volume of work. The Village of Stonegate, begun in 2007/2008, proved unique for Snoznik in that he served as both builder and developer. This maintenance free development lies amid the verdant hills of Penn Township, Westmoreland County. Here, luxury meets laid back lifestyle where down-sized maintenance responsibilities exist without downsized living space. Located just off Route 130 in Harrison City with easy access to major roadways such as Routes 30, 22 and the Pennsylvania turnpike, the Village at Stonegate boasts geographic desirability. The 42-condominium ownership plan features “row” or vertical homes, some as duplexes while others are quads with the properties sold through Prudential Realty, Helene Nseir, sales associate. What attracts clients to the plan, according to Snoznik, is the homeowner’s desire

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“In essence, we’re downsizing the maintenance without downsizing the living space.” With more than 50 percent of the condos sold, all evidence points to the demand for this stress-free living. “Clients are also attracted to the plan because the location is ideal,” Nseir added. “For those who work, there is easy access to points east and west.” to eliminate outdoor care and upkeep of a large, single family home. “In essence, we’re downsizing the maintenance without downsizing the living space.” With more than 50 percent of the condos sold, all evidence points to the demand for this stress-free living. “Clients are also attracted to the plan because the location is ideal,” Nseir added. “For those who work, there is easy access to points east and west.” She is quick to note, too, that Stonegate is not an over-55 community. Typical clients range from singles to retired couples, empty nesters, and some families; all affluent buyers. “The condos 12 GREATER PITTSBURGH’S NEW HOME

are spacious enough to raise a family,” she continued. “There are no limitations here.” Some of those conveniences include close proximity to primary and secondary schools, colleges and universities, recreational areas, shopping, churches, restaurants and more. The luxury condos range in size with the smallest at 2,500 to 2,800 square feet, all above grade. Others feature below grade basements with greater space, some up to 4,000 square feet. “Initially, four prepriced floor plans were offered starting at a range of $324,900 to $356,000 with the

| Winter 2015

ability for customization such as enlarging a dining room or eliminating it altogether,” Snoznik continued. “We started with a traditional design incorporating European flair featuring maple cabinetry, granite countertops, custom built-ins, walk-in pantries, crown molding and even wine cellars,” he said. “Now, we opt for a more transitional look with the ability to customize even further with amenities such as oversized showers, unique outdoor living areas with courtyards, outdoor fireplaces, media rooms and more.” Nseir elaborated that the homes are also energy efficient - those built on a slab have a

duct heating system while those with a basement feature hot water, radiant heat downstairs and forced air furnace heat upstairs, making it “very efficient, reducing utility bills.” HOA fees of $125 include maintenance from the outside walls of the condo in this quiet, lantern community, a touch that “makes the whole neighborhood shine.” As the area ages, Hunter sees a growing need for new housing products. “People are ‘rightsizing’”, she explained. “They are changing housing to fit their lifestyles and current needs, and that does not necessarily mean going smaller.” Hunter has seen trends such as maintenance free living, first floor master bedrooms, and elevators, which she notes are “coming back in vogue and is more of an option.” Affordability, too, comes into play. A Westmoreland County plan called Allegheny Woodlands by Suncrest Homes has proven both economical and attractive to buyers, offering single family homes, patio homes and cottages from the low $200,000s. The planned community

with amenities has the appeal of being “a local neighborhood” Hunter noted. “For some, it’s a move up for those in the local market while others are moving from Monroeville to the Westmoreland County area, all looking for a different style of living.” Moreover, she observes that there is a great need for multi-family products in the right price point - $200,000 to $350,000 – but it “doesn’t exist in abundance.” The flip side of the affordability coin demonstrates a desire among others for higher end homes. Williams, who also serves as Operations Manager for KLA Construction Inc., finds that KLA’s Everview Estates in Ligonier Township has only 12 lots left in its 27-lot development, with homes ranging from $400,000 to $500,000. The planned community’s homes, abutting a small golf course, contain elegant granite kitchens, hardwood cabinetry, upper end moldings and millwork along with hardcoat plaster finishes. “We are doing more first floor master bedrooms and raised ranch homes,” he

added. “People are thinking more into the future and anticipating potential needs.” When Howard Hanna took over the plan in Murrysville three years ago called Siena Ridge, these upscale homes boasting magnificent vistas sold. “It is a wonderful community with approximately 20 homes built in the $650,000 to $1 million range and it found a healthy market,” added Hunter. In her experience, the maxim might just be “There’s a product for everyone, and a price point for everyone.” As to the future, Hunter predicts that in three to five years, points east will become a growth market, with its abundance of property. Snoznik believes that, on the one hand, the cost of rent is skyrocketing and given the good values on land in Westmoreland County, this may make it more feasible to build and buy. Corna, too, reports that Kacin Companies are always looking toward the future and in the eastern market, they are sensitive to “where the buyer is in the process and in life.” NH

www.greaterpittsburghnewhome.com

Want Maintenance-Free, One-Level Living?

14 GREATER PITTSBURGHâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S NEW HOME

| Winter 2015

Then a Patio Home May Be Just the Thing for You

n case you haven’t noticed, Pittsburgh home buying has an additional trend. And that trend is patio-homes. These residences have many names used interchangeably, from garden homes and garden villas to courtyard homes, carriage homes, or club homes. But most people know them as patio homes. What’s prompting this trend? Baby Boomers are the trend setters who want to downsize and stay in the Greater Pittsburgh area and hopefully their present neighborhoods, and may be retired or nearing retirement, including empty

nesters. They’re looking to leave larger, multi-story homes for a smaller home that offers spacious, maintenance-free, one-level living or, right-sizing, same square footage of current home with a different layout to accommodate firstfloor living. Most often, when you buy a patio home, you belong to a home-owner’s association. For a monthly fee, the homeowner’s association takes care of things like snow blowing walks and driveways, cutting grass, mulching, raking leaves and the like.

www.greaterpittsburghnewhome.com

Can you imagine the appeal of this arrangement? Retired Boomers enjoying life free of home maintenance. Semi-retired or people still working can focus on living their lives instead of maintaining their homes. And younger people can spend their weekends doing fun things instead of being bogged down with household chores.

With nearly 30 years of design and building experience, Weaver Homes has defined itself as one of Pittsburgh’s patio and custom home builder par excellence. The company concentrates first on understanding its clients’ needs and exceeding their expectations with exceptional home building services.

Besides low maintenance, the exquisite use of interior space stands out as another compelling reason why home buyers today purchase patio homes. The central living area is more than just a living area and includes a gourmet kitchen, luxury master suite, guest bedrooms, private dens, and storage space, all within easy reach.

“We work only with the best professional contractors,” says Bill Weaver, “to offer the quality, integrity, service, attention to details that make a difference, craftsmanship and value that every client of ours values and deserves when they buy a patio home from us.”

You’ll find patio homes built by Bill and Bonnie Weaver of Weaver Homes in Sonoma Valley in Connoquenessing Township, Butler County, and in The Links at Deer Run in West Deer Township, and Altmyer Fields, Marshall Township, both Allegheny County. Baby Boomers, in particular, feel a kinship with the patio homes the Weavers have built.

Weaver Homes is a family-owned and operated home builder with two generations of home building in Pittsburgh. As such, the company is one of the most reputable patio-home builders in the area. The company makes a point of bringing each home buyer’s home vision to reality. Patio homes by Weaver Homes come in a variety of distinctive styles. In both the

Sonoma Valley and The Links at Deer Run communities, you’ll find the Abbey patio home with two bedrooms and two bath rooms and the Canterbury patio home with three bedrooms and two bath rooms. Both styles also have a veranda. Weaver Homes is the second of two franchisee home builders of Epcon Communities to construct homes, neighborhoods, and lifestyles by integrating smart, innovative designs with the most desirable, modern amenities that provide home buyers a truly remarkable experience. Bill Weaver has been building patio homes for 14 years and started building them as attached dwellings. But today, customers also prefer detached, one-level living minus the bother of high-maintenance that’s so much a part of larger-home living. But he’s seen buyers for these homes change over time. “Baby Boomers buy about 90 percent of the patio homes we build and sell today,” he says, “but they are, by and large, active

14 COMMUNITIES in the Pittsburgh Area

ALLEGHENY COUNTY HAMPTON TOWNSHIP

Community: Stonebridge School District: Hampton Remington Place Decorated Model High $460s | 1 Home Site Remaining

MARSHALL TOWNSHIP

BUTLER COUNTY ADAMS TOWNSHIP

Community: Fulton Crossing School District: Mars Area Clifton Park II Decorated Model High $430s | New Floor Plans

CRANBERRY TOWNSHIP

Community: Venango Trails School District: North Allegheny Abingshire & John Jacob Astor Decorated Models Under $310s | Townhomes & Single Family Homes

Community: Franklin Crossing School District: Seneca Valley Chapel Hill Decorated Model Low $430s | Only 5 Opportunities Remaining

PINE TOWNSHIP

Community: Walden Pond School District: Seneca Valley Low $710s | Only 6 Opportunities Remaining

Community: Pinecrest School District: Pine-Richland High $410s | 1 Home Site Remaining

WASHINGTON COUNTY

Community: Pleasant Ridge School District: Pine-Richland High $410s | New Floor Plans

Community: Ironwood II School District: Canon-McMillan High $450s | New Home Sites in Southpointe

Community: Emerald Fields School District: Pine-Richland Regent’s Park II Decorated Model High $530s | New Decorated Model

ROBINSON TOWNSHIP

Community: Stafford Park School District: Montour Kingsmill Decorated Model High $350s | Final Home Sites Community: Newbury School District: South Fayette Home Types: Luxury Townhomes John Jacob Astor Decorated Model Mid $290s | Neighborhood Park

CECIL TOWNSHIP

Community: The Overlook at Southpointe School District: Canon-McMillan Remington Place Decorated Model Low $390s | 3 Opportunities Remain in Current Phase

NORTH STRABANE TOWNSHIP

Community: Summerbrooke School District: Canon-McMillan Low $360s | New Floor Plans Released

UPPER ST. CLAIR

Community: Bedner Estates School District: Upper St. Clair Mid $530s | Now Selling

16 GREATER PITTSBURGH’S NEW HOME

| Winter 2015

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

724-949-0079 | Sales@HeartlandLuxuryHomes.com

HeartlandLuxuryHomes.com

people who don’t want to be tied down with maintenance chores and appreciate the ease of single-level living.” One customer type could be executives whose jobs involve frequent air travel who might spend days flying and working away from home during the week and returning home at the end of the week. Another type could be an empty-nester couple, like Geri and Bob Maringo, who just wanted to live without being shackled with getting things done around their home. They had lived in Butler for nine years in a home that needed a lot of care with the landscaping, like cutting grass and gathering leaves on their large property during Fall each year. They began looking for a new home in August of 2013, but weren’t quite ready to make the move. But after another year of high-maintenance living, they revisited buying a new home in August 2014. They involved Weaver Homes in their plans and bought and moved into a quadruplex, or quad, patio home. “Bonnie Weaver, Co-

“After the first 45 days in our new home,” she says, Weaver Homes completed an inspection, and completes another inspection at the end of the first year. If we’re ready to change anything, the company is ready to help get it done.”

owner of Weaver Homes and Jackie Gaudino, Sales Consultant for the Sonoma Valley patio-home community, just couldn’t do enough for us to ease our transition to our new, patio home,” says Geri Maringo. Geri also likes how Weaver Homes stays close to patio-home residents. “After the first 45 days in our new home,” she says, Weaver Homes completed an inspection, and completes another inspection at the end of the first year. If we’re ready to change anything, the company is ready to help get it done.”

LUXURY LIV I N G No or Low

MAINTENANCE Weaver’s Epcon series of no or low maintenance patio and carriage homes provide the comfort, practicality and luxury you would expect on every CANTERBURY MODEL

level, even though you’re only living on ONE. We believe that details define the difference. Tour one of our communities and see if you agree.

WeaverHomes.com P ORTICO MODEL www.greaterpittsburghnewhome.com

Weaver Homes knows how to design patio homes, because the company’s design for building patio homes relates to a survey of more than 6,800 potential patiohome buyers conducted by Epcon Communities. By and large, respondents prefer homes that faced out onto a courtyard and that conveyed the feeling of great openness and space. That’s why Weaver Homes builds homes that epitomize enhanced feel, flow, and function and are built with an adjacent courtyard, and include 9-foothigh ceilings and 6-foot-high windows.

Along the way, the Maringos had befriended Judy Manjerovic as she was looking to downsize and move to a new home. They invited her to visit them in their new patio home and that sold her on buying one. “Before I bought my patio home in the Sonoma Valley community, I had lived by myself in a log home with no neighbors nearby, and the terraced property got to be too much for me to keep up,” says Judy. When Judy visited the Maringos, she quickly concluded that the size of a

patio home was just the right fit for her. “What’s not to like?” she says. When Judy moved into her quad patio home, she made some small changes to the interior décor like upgrading to granite counter tops in the kitchen and lowering cabinets to be more easily within reach. And fortunately for her and the Maringos, they now live near each other in their Sonoma Valley patio homes.

Abbey 18 GREATER PITTSBURGH’S NEW HOME

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For some residents, living in a patio home is like being on vacation. Home is a place to live a relaxed life, free of cares about home maintenance and such. For them, life doesn’t get any better than residing in a patio home. Living in a patio home is so much like being on vacation that you could say they enjoy staycation living. “And we’re happy to provide patio-home buyers with this custom feel without the custom price,” says Weaver. And that’s absolutely fine with home buyers. With so many different, potential buyers, designing a patio home inside and out

Canterbury

becomes a tailoring proposition for home builders like Paul Scarmazzi and wife, Lisa, of Canonsburg, owners of Scarmazzi Homes. They left careers in finance, marketing, and design to become a franchisee builder of Epcon Homes and Communities. As an Epcon franchisee like Weaver Homes, every patio home the Scarmazzis build get a rigorous quality-assurance review Epcon calls QualityMark. QualityMark is governed independently of the construction professionals like Paul and Lisa who build the homes. The objective reviews in this process assure the pristine quality of a buyer’s patio home. “The Epcon approach to building patio homes has worked for our customers since we started our business,” says Lisa Scaramazzi, “and has enabled us to design and build patio homes that home buyers love and enjoy living in.” The patio-home communities built by Scarmazzi Homes are located in the Courtyards in North Fayette Township and in Mission Hills in Cecil. “For the last 14 years,” says Paul “we’ve been a solutions provider for home buyers in ways that have added meaning and changed their lives because of the patio homes they’ve bought from us.” Customer feedback expresses a high satisfaction with the Scarmazzi’s emphasis on the human aspect of patio-home building. This includes feedback from customers like Susanne and Frank Gomez. “My

Palazzo

Portico

Promenade www.greaterpittsburghnewhome.com

“Frank and I wanted one-floor living and we liked the flow of the patio homes we had looked at,” she says, adding, “We were attracted to the open-living space and amenities in the patio homes we visited. In particular, we liked the kitchen layout, the living room and such in the great, interior space—all the things we didn’t have in our previous home.” 20 GREATER PITTSBURGH’S NEW HOME

| Winter 2015

husband, Frank, and I have had a good relationship with Paul Scarmazzi ever since we started looking at patio homes he had built in the Mission Hills community near Canonsburg, and we still do. Whenever we need his help for anything, all we have to do is call him, and he makes himself available for us,” says Susanne Gomez. Before purchasing their patio home, Susanne and Frank had lived in their large, two-story, starter home for 40 years. Over time, Frank had completed some remodeling on this home. But in time, they realized that remodeling would not get them where they wanted to be in terms of their living space.

The move to their patio home presented some challenges for Susanne and Frank, like leaving behind some of the furniture in their former home and buying new furniture for their patio home. “We especially liked the hardwood floors and the cathedral ceiling in our patio home,” says Susanne. “We had a cathedral ceiling in the home we left behind, but the effect was not the same as the cathedral ceiling in our patio home.” From the very start of their new-home search, Susanne and Frank looked only at the patio homes the Scarmazzis had built at Mission Hills. They didn’t have to look any further to know the patio home the Scarmazzis built for them was just right. In fact, plenty of customers love the work of Scarmazzi Homes. A customer feedback survey of 708 customers with a 69 percent response rate showed that 95 percent of Scarmazzi’s customers would likely recommend Scarmazzi Homes and 94 percent would recommend the company. As they lived near the Mission Hills community, Susanne had spent time visiting and examining the patio homes the Scarmazzis had built not far from her daughter, who lives in Nevillewood. “Frank and I wanted one-floor living and we liked the flow of the patio homes we had looked at,” she says, adding, “We were attracted to the open-living space and amenities in the patio homes we visited. In particular, we liked the kitchen layout, the living room and such in the great, interior space—all the things we didn’t have in our previous home.”

No wonder that Scarmazzi Homes, with more than 400 patio homes completed, and with its contemporary design, topquality materials, professional workmanship and dedicated commitment to customer service, has become one of the most successful, privately-owned builders of patio homes in the greater Pittsburgh area. Eddy Homes has thrilled home buyers with its approach to home building for 43 years. “We build homes with a focus on quality, as though we were building homes for ourselves,” says Jon Moritz, Vice President of Sales. For Eddy Homes,

quality building of patio homes means being ultra-particular about who works on its homes. “We make sure to hire nothing but higher-end subcontractors. This avoids unwanted construction problems that can crop up when you work with contractors who are of a lesser caliber,” says Moritz. “We’re a full, custom builder. Home buyers trust our custom-service design process that builds patio homes right the first time,” says Moritz. “Our home construction is well thought out and is one of complete customization of patio homes exactly tailored to the life style of home buyers.” A true sign of professionalism in any field is to make doing difficult things look easy. And Eddy Homes is truly professional in the way it works with home buyers. “This is why we employ a design coordinator who interviews buyers on the ways they intend to use and live in their patio homes. This enables us to tailor the floor plan of every patio home we build to precisely coordinate with a buyer’s life style without compromising on anything,” said Moritz. The Eddy Homes patio-home community is located in Peters Township. Baby Boomers like empty nesters and people who travel a lot in business comprise the patio-home buyers Eddy Homes caters to. They, of course, love their one-level, maintenance-free patio homes, especially how easy it is now to entertain within the wide-open floor plan. “It’s not unusual for buyers who live in one of our patio homes to tell us things like how much easier it is to entertain people in their 2,200-square-foot home

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than it ever was in the 4,500-square-foot homes they left behind,” says Moritz. After they live in their patio homes, residents experience a welcome surprise—the energy efficiency of their patio homes compared to the much larger homes they had lived in earlier. Because building codes have become more stringent in the last eight years, Eddy Homes designs its patio homes with appropriate insulation and addresses the air-flow patterns in its patio homes. “Buyers of our patio homes are often aghast at how much money they save on heating and cooling their patio homes compared with what they used to spend,” says Moritz. Many current buyers like the modern Craftsman exterior look that combines the mixed look of stone and Hardie siding. Eddy Homes also builds all-brick patio homes to achieve a more traditional look, but allows buyers to choose the exterior finish they prefer.

Some retired home buyers like Rich and Joyce Popovich fall in love with patio homes because these homes respond to their certainty about what they want in a home. “As we were on our house hunting tour, we had the opportunity to visit the Eddy Homes model patio home at The Crossings in McMurray,” says Joyce Popovich. “The moment I walked in and experienced the décor inside, I loved it. I knew I could live there.” Husband, Rich, agreed, and he and Joyce would have bought the model home on the spot, but it was not for sale. Shortly before Rich and Joyce bought their patio home at The Crossings, they had purchased a large home in Southpointe. At about the same time, Rich experienced some health difficulties. Because of this, they both realized that the home in Southpointe was too much for them to handle what with having to cut grass and remove snow. That’s when they started looking for a home with one-level, maintenance-free living.

In this respect, everything the Popovich’s need is all on the main floor, from the study and master bedroom to the kitchen and storage space. They enjoy the large closets downstairs and can walk right out onto their patio from there. “And the interior of our patio home shows the top-notch finishing Eddy Homes provided,” says Joyce. All things considered, for people who want to downsize, they can’t do better than investing in a patio home, where they can enjoy an environment that’s free and clear of maintaining a home and enables them to create a lifestyle that’s more about them than about the home they live in. NH

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The Crossings is a luxury patio home community by Eddy Homes in Peters Township. This community features maintenance-free, first floor living patio homes, is close to I-79 and within walking distance of many restaurants and shops. Customize your home today!

For more inspiration, visit: E D D Y H O M E S . C O M or call 412.221.0400 to start planning the home of your dreams. 22 GREATER PITTSBURGH’S NEW HOME

| Winter 2015

THE

EXPANSION OF

PITTSBURGHâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S

Apartment Market I

tâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s happening here in Pittsburgh like it is in most cities around the U. S. There is a boom in apartment development that has been going on for five years now that has changed the mix of the housing stock and the share of Americans who see owning a home as part of the American dream. This global shift in housing was sparked by the mortgage crisis

but has been abetted by a change in attitudes. For several years following the financial crisis in 2008, banks needed time to clean up their portfolios and did much less mortgage lending. In many U. S. cities, home prices plummeted and people could not afford to own homes. This forced austerity gave rise to a change in how apartment living was viewed and many former (or future) homeowners embraced the flexibility and reduced risk of renting. In

Western PA, however, the expansion of the apartment market has its roots in job growth, demographic changes and a revitalized city, rather than the byproduct of a housing decline. Simply put, while many Americans found that they could not make homeownership work, many Pittsburghers who could afford to own a home chose not to.

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Because there had been so little new apartment construction in Pittsburgh during the last ten years or so, much of the apartment inventory was fairly homogenous or dated. With home prices relatively low in Pittsburgh, residents found buying made more sense and offered more options for living. As new apartments have been built at a hot pace since 2012, the variety of living styles has expanded, especially for renters looking to live in Pittsburgh’s hottest neighborhoods. Whether the apartment is in Downtown, East Liberty, South Side or Lawrenceville, a Pittsburgh renter can live in a tiny modern box or a cavernous renovated historic structure – or in a host of styles in between those extremes. For decades, the economic perceptions about Pittsburgh discouraged development of new apartments. The population was not growing. Homes were relatively affordable. There weren’t many young people moving to Western PA and empty-nesters in Pittsburgh tended to stay in their homes rather than renting in a “downsizing” move. Most apartment buildings were full but the demand for units was soft enough that rents didn’t go up. All of these conditions made an apartment developer look somewhere

24 GREATER PITTSBURGH’S NEW HOME

Whether the apartment is in Downtown, East Liberty, South Side or Lawrenceville, a Pittsburgh renter can live in a tiny modern box or a cavernous renovated historic structure – or in a host of styles in between those extremes.

| Winter 2015

else to develop. And almost all of those economic and demographic conditions changed in 2009.

The Economic Change What kick-started the good times for apartments was the very bad times that resulted from the recession of 2007-2009. That downturn started because too many people who shouldn’t have qualified for mortgages received loans. The government aimed to make home ownership available for all Americans and reduced regulatory barriers, some of which were there to protect lenders from their own excesses. When millions of homeowners began to fall behind and default on their mortgages, the bubble burst and a credit crisis plunged the world into recession. As has happened, whenever there has been a credit crisis, the recovery that followed in 2009 was characterized by a very conservative lending environment. Banks wanted 20 percent down payments on mortgages and higher levels of income to cover debt. Almost overnight, it became much easier to rent than to qualify for a home loan. And with the values of homes plunging in many

cities, the perception of home equity as a builder of wealth declined. There suddenly were fewer apartments than renters.

present in Pittsburgh in 2010 but a great economic coincidence was pushing demand for apartments higher in Pittsburgh too.

new home development still mired in the doldrums, apartments became the attractive choice for living.

With millions of people suddenly looking for an apartment, rents began to go up. Lenders that needed to put money to work – like insurance companies for example – had few property types that were deemed safe investments at the time. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac – the biggest backers of mortgages in the country – tried to help get the economy moving by looking for projects to back. In 2010, the properties that made economic sense were apartments. People needed to rent. Developers needed to develop. It was a recipe for a boom.

When the steel industry collapsed in the U. S. back in the 1980’s, economic diversity became one of the major goals of the civic leadership in Western PA. By 2010, the economy of Pittsburgh was being driven by information technology, healthcare, education and finance. PNC Financial Services was one of the winners that emerged from the financial crisis. UPMC had grown exponentially during the 2000’s because of its research and groundbreaking clinical specialties. Pittsburgh’s universities had begun spinning their ideas off into new technology businesses and attracting some of the world’s biggest tech companies – like Microsoft, Intel, Apple and Google – to set

This combination of available money for development, more new home formations and more obstacles to home ownership fueled the construction of a lot more apartments in Pittsburgh.

up offices in Pittsburgh to work with the universities’ students.

and the former Goodwill headquarters – became prime apartment space. This was especially true in the Golden Triangle, where more than a dozen former office buildings were converted into more than 1,000 dwelling units. These older buildings were home to some of Pittsburgh’s first experiments with micro-apartments, units with as little as 200 square feet of living

In Pittsburgh, the symptoms of the Great Recession weren’t nearly as severe as the

rest of the country. Pittsburghers had done much less refinancing than other Americans. The conservative nature of Western Pennsylvanians served them well during the downturn. Houses mostly retained their value. Unemployment rose in Pittsburgh but there were far fewer layoffs than in other cities. The conditions that created the national apartment boom weren’t really

The result was that more and better jobs were being created in Pittsburgh than in most cities. More people were moving into the region than leaving it. Population began to grow with the jobs. With each new job came a new household formation. With

As the apartment “boom” unfolded in Pittsburgh, the topography and existing stock of buildings created an interesting variety of opportunities to develop multifamily properties. Even as new construction of apartments took off in the suburbs and within the city limits, so too did the adaptation of great old buildings into new apartments. Several buildings on the Historic Register – like the Highland Building

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space. Renters had a plethora of living options in a market that had historically offered fairly vanilla apartments. The recession also caused problems for single-family development that helped make apartments more attractive. By coincidence, the available lot inventory for new construction was shrinking before the recession began. With development lending at a standstill, new home construction slowed, especially the construction of custom homes. Now, with production builder NVR dominating our new home market, there are fewer true custom opportunities in single-family new construction. For those interested in a unique or customized living space, apartments offered more choices.

units of traditional single-family homes built each year, precisely double the size of the apartment market for new construction. During the past four years, however, the average for single-family has been 1,850, some 500 units less than the number of apartments. Economic upheaval had a clear and dramatic impact on the housing market in Pittsburgh since 2009 but more basic and longer-term changes in demographics may prove to be even more influential on the apartment market.

The sum of all these factors pushed construction of new apartments to levels that hadn’t been seen in a generation. During the first decade of the century, an average of 1,508 multi-family units were built each year. The average has been 2,320 during the last four years, with 6,433 units built in 2013-2014. As an indication of how the market shifted you can look at how the share of the total housing market changed since the recession. Prior to 2008, there was an average of 3,017

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The Demographic Change Among the long-held (and inaccurate) perceptions about Pittsburgh that are finally being dispelled include the impression that Pittsburgh is still smoky and industrial. These perceptions haven’t been true for decades. One of the other perceptions that is being shattered was actually based in fact until recently; that is, that Pittsburgh has America’s most aged population. There was a period of time in the 1980’s and 1990’s when the median age in Allegheny County and the City of Pittsburgh was the oldest of any city in the U. S. except Miami and Dade County, Florida. Since the new millennium, however, that demographic trend has changed dramatically. Since 1980, the trend in Pittsburgh and Allegheny County has followed that of the age trends for Pennsylvania and the U. S., although Allegheny’s residents were about four years older than the average American. Since 2000, the median age of Allegheny County residents grew at a slower rate than the state’s or nation’s median age, and since 2010 that median age for Allegheny residents has declined. Within the city limits, the story is even more dramatic, with the median age of a Pittsburgh resident falling

from almost 36 in 2000 to 33 in 2014. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not just that the median age of Pittsburghers is getting younger, it is that there are more young people. In fact, there has been a 29 percent increase in the number of adults between the ages of 25 and 35 during the 2000-2009 period, and data points to an even steeper increase since 2010. At the same time, the number of Pittsburghers over 65 has also grown. In 2015, the two largest demographic groups are those over 65 and those under 35. Because of some other trends, these demographic groups have boosted the already active apartment market. Through the years, apartments have been most appealing to people just entering the workforce and retirees. While that reality hasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t changed, there are some trends that have expanded that sweet spot. One of those is the aging of the Baby Boomers. The largest generation born in America, the Boomers are now four years into retirement age, meaning that in another four years half of the Baby Boomers will be over 65. As of January 1, some 14 percent of Americans are over 65 and in metropolitan Pittsburgh more than 17 percent of the population is above that age. With two-thirds of the Boomers still to reach that milestone, demographic support from this important group should be stronger.

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Even more important to the current rise in apartment dwelling than the Boomers, the demographic group that is under the age of 35 has had a significant impact on the number and style of apartments in the market. These so-called Millennials are equal in number to the Baby Boomers but have shown much more inclination to rent than their predecessors. The proof of the pudding, of course, is in the numbers. Real estate analyst Zillow Corp. reported in January that landlords collected $441 billion in rent in 2014, an increase of 4.9 percent. Part of that increase was a result of supply not meeting demand yet, but the increase was also because the total number of renters continued to grow by 1.9 percent. With Millennials now belatedly forming households of their own, after many shared space or moved in with parents, the number of renters should continue to grow through 2016.

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The largest segment of downtown residents in cities across the country is the over-55 crowd, the empty nester. As the largest generation began to hit 55 and think about downsizing, its members began to create more demand for urban apartments. The demographic push came from the Baby Boomers, of course. While the average person may think that living in an urban setting is most appealing to young professionals, the reality is actually the opposite. The largest segment of downtown residents in cities across the country is the over-55 crowd, the empty nester. As the largest generation began to hit 55 and think about downsizing, its members began to create more demand for urban apartments.

The New Urban Change A final accelerator for the proliferation of apartments has been the move back into cities, often called New Urbanism. This social movement began nearly a decade ago as a combination of demographics and a sense of a more sustainable way of living began to turn people away from the suburbs.

28 GREATER PITTSBURGHâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S NEW HOME

| Winter 2015

Sustainability as a lifestyle choice is a characteristic more common in younger adults. The concepts of “green” living have been part of the educational curriculum in colleges and public schools for more than a decade. Today’s young adults care much more about the environment and their impact than those of previous generations; and for all of its convenience, the suburbs aren’t an environmentally-friendly style of living. Urban offers walkable amenities rather than those only accessible by car in the suburbs. Urban living also usually occurs near a city’s cultural center, making that lifestyle more attractive to those with time and disposable income. In Pittsburgh, the New Urbanism trend took a while to gain traction. As late as 2005, there were only 3,500 people living in the Golden Triangle (up from 1,500 in 1990) and the City of Pittsburgh proper was still losing residents. That changed almost overnight. Pittsburgh’s urban living trend also bucked the demographic norms of the rest of the country. Population in Downtown has grown to 8,500 residents by 2015, even with very little land on which to build new projects. Developers have taken older small office buildings on Penn and Liberty Avenue, along with several in the First Avenue to Fourth Avenue corridors and converted them into condos and apartments. As demand has grown, developers have shifted their focus to larger buildings, including some that served as headquarters buildings for well known companies like Alcoa and Verizon. This growth in Downtown living has attracted a different crowd in Pittsburgh than in other cities. The Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership found in its most recent survey of Downtown residents that 27 percent of those living in the Golden Triangle were under the age of 30. Another 18 percent were ages 30 to 39, the same share as the 50-to-59 yearold cohort. Outside of the Golden Triangle, apartment projects are even hotter, as residents seek to be near the action in the city’s hottest neighborhoods for social activity. Pittsburgh has become a foodie city and is attracting artisans who cook, bake and

brew with the best in the world. Formerly decaying communities like East Liberty and Lawrenceville are seeing hundreds of new apartment units developed every year. Neighborhoods like Oakland and South Side – which had previously been hot places to live with no vacancies – are seeing large scale new apartment development. New Urbanism aside, there is a more practical magnet within the city of Pittsburgh that is drawing people in. Many of the region’s fastest-growing companies are also those that are hiring lots of young or highly-trained technical talent. That has meant that Carnegie Mellon or Pitt students from out-of-town can find jobs here after graduation. It also means that employers like PNC, Google, UPMC or the universities can widen their search to attract talent. A decade ago, nationwide or global searches were tough to conduct. Now, as Pittsburgh seems to gain global accolades every week, talent attraction is much easier. Walnut Capital’s president, Todd Reidbord, notes that two out of three residents at his company’s new Bakery Living and Walnut on Highland apartments have never lived in Pittsburgh before. Most of these residents are doctors, researchers or information technology professionals drawn to the jobs here, although Reidbord says that some have just been people who decided to move here because they heard Pittsburgh was a place to be.

The Outlook The ingredients for a booming apartment market have fallen into place over the past five years. What has been true over time about apartments, however, is that there always tends to be too many or too few. When apartments are a hot commodity, developers jump at the chance to build more and have almost always overbuilt. After a few years of higher vacancy, the increasing household formation rate catches up and there is a shortage again. The kinds of unusually high number of apartment starts that have occurred in 2013-2014 here in Pittsburgh have also occurred in the rest of the nation. It’s likely that the apartment boom is getting long in the tooth and there is evidence that vacancy rates have started to inch up. The response to this change

in market conditions will tell the tale of this apartment market boom in 2015. If developers and lenders get more cautious, there may be a soft landing to this boom. If not, there will be a bit of a bubble to burst down the road. Pittsburgh isn’t immune to those same market dynamics but there is plenty of evidence that there is life in the apartment market still. For one thing, the transformation of Pittsburgh’s urban neighborhoods is hardly complete. There are several mid-size apartment projects just getting started in the Uptown neighborhood between Downtown and Oakland, and the Lower Hill District revitalization is expected to bring 1,200 units into the market over the next six to eight years. In the East End, there are neighborhoods directly adjacent to the city’s hottest neighborhoods – places like Garfield, Larimer and Wilkinsburg – that have lots of empty lots and inexpensive buildings to convert. Clearly, the supply isn’t exhausted. What should give the apartment buzz a bit more life in Pittsburgh is its economy. Economists expect that employers will add about 8,000 to 10,000 new jobs annually through the end of the decade. That’s 8,000 to 10,000 more people who will need a place to live. Since the homebuilders in the region have not built more than 3,500 new homes in any given year for the past 20 years, the slack will have to come from existing homes or new multi-family developments. And with the Allegheny Conference on Economic Development making population and talent attraction as its highest priority for the next three years, it’s possible that even more dwelling units will be needed. It has been a good ride for apartment owners in Pittsburgh since 2010 and with the varied response from developers, that ride has been good for apartment dwellers too. The trends that drove the need for twice as many apartments as normal are still in place. It looks like the good ride may not be over soon. NH

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Builder Profile

30 GREATER PITTSBURGH’S NEW HOME

| Winter 2015

Builder Profile

How a Father-Daughter Team is Reinventing Home Design for Pittsburgh Buyers

onsider all the headaches of a custom home: the shuffling around from store to store to crane your neck at boards full of tiny tiles, tiny paint samples, tiny flooring. You’d have to strain your comprehension to envision how all those pieces would fit together, and you wouldn’t really get a good look until the home was half-built. Now imagine that you don’t have to. There’s a new home design studio in Evans City where blocks of sample materials are almost comically large, where you can preview and compare all of your selections in interactive building areas. And while you’re browsing—privately, without the builder or designer hovering nearby—you’re in the midst of a bright, inspiring space that integrates every component under one roof to help you decide. www.greaterpittsburghnewhome.com

Builder Profile That’s the gist of Expressions Home Studio, a dream concept of Brennan Builders that came to life in November 2014 after years of thoughtful planning. New Home Magazine rambled about the 5,000 square-foot studio and had as much fun as Brennan’s lucky clients. “One of the biggest struggles people have with new home construction is that the process is so hard,” says Bob Brennan, company president. Brennan has been learning from his customers since 2002, when he inherited the business from his father. “There are so many different places to run to,” he says. “They have to go to the kitchen place, the granite place... they don’t want to take the time.”

color so that they blend from afar. The upper cabinets are glazed, while the bottom is not, displaying the variation for customers. More than one type of cabinet handle is displayed, although they’re uniform by section.

a wall of detachable faucets that customers can place on each counter to see how they match up. New Home’s favorite is Tricia’s working shower, which has flush-mounted body jets on a gorgeous, ambiguously colored green-gray stone.

A few feet away, Tricia’s kitchen sets a bright and cheery tile next to an ultramodern metal wave. This is a pattern echoed throughout the studio, where father and

The Brains Behind the Beauty; The Client’s Experience Comes First. For smart selection and proximity, Brennan partnered with consultant Jane Meagher. Meagher is the president of Success Strategies, an award-winning company that works with builders in 100 markets around the country to leverage and create fullservice design studios.

“They get stressed out about it,” says Tricia. Bob and Tricia Brennan. She is Bob’s daughter, a third-generation homebuilder. “So we wanted to create a space the way a customer envisions the process, not the way that builders think: ‘Pick your plumbing, pick your flooring, pick your lighting.’” Tricia is down-to-earth but driven, and as she walks around the studio, she calls out her favorite details with palpable pride and energy. A word on the details: there are thousands, and how they’re employed without overwhelming the eye is a case study for design aficionados. But it works. Expressions Home Studio is stunning, and walking through each of its showrooms delights rather than distracts. Take Bob’s kitchen. (“We each have a full kitchen,” Tricia laughs. “When we started building, no one could remember Kitchen A and Kitchen B. Dad’s kitchen is more traditional.”) The kitchen subtly employs three different backsplashes of square, herringbone, and harlequin, all in the same

32 GREATER PITTSBURGH’S NEW HOME

A word on the details: there are thousands, and how they’re employed without overwhelming the eye is a case study for design aficionados. But it works.

daughter have laid claim to different vignettes that would please nearly any camp. Nearby are several bathroom vignettes and

| Winter 2015

“Pretty isn’t good enough,” says Meagher. “Just opening a space that has some pretty kitchen vignettes is really not doing a service to the customer. The reason Expressions Home Studio is going to be so successful, for both the customer and the builder, is because of the strategy and science embedded into everything in there.” She gives an example: “Understanding what products buyers need to focus on at the same time so that the space flow supports their ability to make selections with ease and grace.” In just one sight line in Expressions Home Studio, the cabinet and flooring areas are yards away from Bob and Tricia’s full kitchens, which serve as a reference point. While you’re choosing your flooring, you can look around and see nearly 15 samples beneath your feet. A vital piece of that strategy is the studio’s interactive displays, where you can put cabinet, backsplash, countertop, and flooring pieces together instead of spreading them on a table. Customers slide in combinations to their heart’s content, and at realistic angles, vertically or horizontally. Later, when Brennan’s customers meet with full-time design manager Cathy Taylor, their selections are displayed again on another large area behind her desk.

Builder Profile

The Buzz From Clients Paul and Connie Mockenhaupt reside in Sewickley when the Pittsburgh weather departs from its wintry gray, and they’re proud of their Brennan-built home adjacent to the Diamond Run Golf Club. What’s more, the Mockenhaupts, who previously have built three other custom homes and are currently building another home with the Brennans, say that Brennan’s design studio is their favorite. “Our home in Florida was built with the help of a design studio. It’s a big operation, but it’s not done nearly as well,” Connie explains. “The [Florida] design studio has samples, but you can’t see everything in that particular center. So you might have to go down the road to 13 model homes to see everything, and at the end, it’s just too hard to remember what you saw.” She continues, “It makes a difference that Brennan has put all of their selec-

tions under one roof. And then they took another step and created full kitchens, full bathrooms, walls with stone samples. You can actually turn on a spigot and observe the water pressure. It was incredible to me that they would take it that far.” It was also clear to the Mockenhaupts that Brennan was happy to help the couple investigate their design preferences and make informed decisions, even if that meant going back to the drawing board. They recall a few instances where Tricia held a timely conference call between the couple and a vendor to answer their questions. No stonewalling—just total customer service.

A Steep Challenge With a Rich Payoff Meagher believes that Brennan was completely motivated by providing a better experience for customers. But as Success

Strategies prepares to finalize its 100th design studio in early 2015, she’s just as certain of the ancillary benefits. Brennan can leverage the studio itself as a sales tool

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Builder Profile

to generate more business and sell more homes, not just the materials themselves. It’s true: the process is seamless, and if design is your oyster, you’ll want to pluck most of the vignettes straight from the wall. But what is painless for the customer has been an enormous financial investment for Brennan, and ties them to years of perpetual maintenance as building materials are discontinued. It’s a challenge most builders won’t touch. According to Bob, the studio has approximately 30 floors, four or five of which will expire every year. One of the stone designs in the tile showcase was discontinued while flooring was under construction—exactly the kind of call they had hoped to avoid. Fortunately, they caught it in time. “You have to think about the space as a retail store,” says Meagher. “You don’t walk into the mall and say to the salesperson, ‘I love that shirt,’ and hear them say, ‘Yeah, that was discontinued.’ In a design studio, things are discontinued constantly, through no fault of the builder. But any builder going into this is making an ongoing commitment to stay on top of trends and

34 GREATER PITTSBURGH’S NEW HOME

“You have to think about the space as a retail store,” says Meagher. “You don’t walk into the mall and say to the salesperson, ‘I love that shirt,’ and hear them say, ‘Yeah, that was discontinued.’ In a design studio, things are discontinued constantly, through no fault of the builder.

| Winter 2015

to bring in viable selling products. That means occasional remodeling to keep the environment up to that first-class level.” The Brennans put a tremendous amount of upfront planning into Expressions Home Studio to facilitate transitions between materials. Tricia explains that the light fixtures are attached on hooks so that they can switch them out, and that grout separations facilitate new tile installation. But there’s no magic bullet. She doesn’t have a solution for every piece, not in a studio whose permanency is part of the charm, and not in a homebuying environment where trends change dramatically. The studio has caught everyone by surprise. Customers say that they couldn’t have predicted what they were walking into. Even Marlene Brennan, who directs administration, had no idea that her husband and daughter’s planning would turn out so phenomenally. It’s still early to determine the return on investment. But a small indication: Tricia conservatively estimates that she’s sold more Moen IO digital system showers in the studio’s first six weeks than she had in the six months prior.

Builder Profile

First and Foremost, A Selection Tool Was the goal of Expressions Home Studio to cut down on the amount of customer selection time? Not exactly, although it’s a welcome benefit. “Speed ranges drastically depending on the person,” says Tricia. “For most people, it should be faster. But this isn’t a profit center, and we’re not churning the wheel. The goal is to make the process more comfortable.” What do clients say? “From my perspective, she accomplished her goal,” says Connie. “It did make it less stressful.” No one is saying that having every selection under one roof eliminates all the stress of budgeting and aligning your choices. That isn’t realistic, according to

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Builder Profile an 8. What’s an 8?” she asks. “This is a place where you can look, touch, feel.”

Design Studios in the Wider Market Meagher estimates that design studios have been around for the past 15 years. They’re a novelty in Pittsburgh, but they’re not a new phenomenon. What is new is the number of builders who are willing to make this type of commitment to their customers, she says.

Jim and Mitzi Scarnati, who are currently building in The Gables patio home community in Mars, PA. “How many times do you build a home in your life?” says Mitzi. “For some people, it’s one or two homes. And even though we’ve done it several times, it doesn’t get any easier. But I think [Brennan] has minimized the stress by having everything right there. The studio has a nice layout.” It’s certainly easier than running out the clock traveling to Millvale (a prior experience of the Scarnatis) or borrowing a piece of granite that you have to run back to the tile center because somebody else needs it (cue the Mockenhaupts).

The Process Itself Brennan’s homebuyers start out with a private session inside the studio, with most spending several hours to a day making their selections. Every material is labeled so that they can identify what is within or outside of their pricing level. Brennan stays out of that first session, allowing clients to make honest assessments about their budget and preferences.

36 GREATER PITTSBURGH’S NEW HOME

After the initial visit, the company itemizes the customer’s notes, generating a pricing plan that they send along. By the time the customer sits down to go through the design details, they already know the price of their favorite materials. “We’ve taken the best features of production builders and custom builders and merged them,” Tricia says. “Custom builders will rarely quote you a price. But we’ve gotten to the point where we’re able to give as much information as possible upfront, so clients feel comfortable walking out of a meeting with us. We don’t hit our customers with a really high number later.” In the studio’s early days, she is quickly taking note of the features that customers find useful. She walks past a hallway of mantel and staircase displays to identify one of them, a closet in the exterior materials section that contains nearly a dozen different pull-out doors. “We had a couple stand on each side of every door and look through it, and say things like, ‘Too transparent!’ It’s so much easier than picking a front door out of a catalogue, which lists the transparency as

| Winter 2015

That’s partly fueled by a healthier economic environment than we were in a few years ago. And it’s also fueled by an increasing level of sophistication in our retail environment. In every consumer goods category, and certainly in consumer home finishing products, the public is demanding better design. The pressure is on for Brennan’s competition. But while area builders are aware of the design studio concept, and now Expressions Home Studio, that doesn’t mean they’ll make the commitment overnight. Production builders will likely continue to embrace model homes, which display a limited number of options in exchange for efficiency. Others will vary in the flexibility and quality of their design showrooms. Every builder has to offer selections. It’s just a matter of what level they do it on. Most builders have some type of design studio, which ranges from poor to average to pretty good to state-of-the-art. Brennan hit state-of-the-art. NH

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CITY OF PITTSBURGH

CITY OF PITTSBURGH 151 First Side Downtown Pittsburgh Condominiums Priced from: $500,000 School district: City of Pittsburgh Agency: 151 First Side 412-586-5970 151firstside.com Angel’s Arms Southside Condominiums Priced from: $199,900 School district: City of Pittsburgh Agency: Northwood Realty Services 412-367-3200 Bedford Hill City of Pittsburgh, Homewood Single-family homes Priced from: $130,000 School district: City of Pittsburgh Agency: Northwood Realty 412-367-3200 northwood.com Columbus Square North Side Single family Priced from: $179,000 to $289,000 School district: City of Pittsburgh Agency: Fourth River Development LLC 412-231-4444 ColumbusSquarePittsburgh.com Hatfield + Home Lawrenceville Single-family homes Priced from: $300,000 to $420,000 School district: City of Pittsburgh Agency: RE/MAX Select Realty Christa Ross 724-779-1437 www.hatfieldandhome.com Hilltop Housing Initiative Beltzhoover Single-family homes Priced from: $89,900 School district: City of Pittsburgh Agency: Northwood Realty 412-367-3200 northwood.com

ALLEGHENY COUNTY

Jailhouse Commons Southside Townhomes Priced from: $399,900 School district: City of Pittsburgh Agency: Howard Hanna Real Estate Services 412-833-3600 howardhanna.com Riverside Mews City of Pittsburgh/South Side Contemporary townhomes Priced from: $545,000 School district: City of Pittsburgh Agency: One80 Real Estate Services LLC 412-318-4139 one80res.com

Summerset at Frick Park City of Pittsburgh/ Squirrel Hill Traditional Neighborhood Development Single-family homes, duplexes, townhomes, condominiums, apartments Priced from: $300,000 School district: City of Pittsburgh Agency: Summerset Land Development Associates 412-420-0120 summersetatfrickpark.com Sweetbriar Village City of Pittsburgh/Mt. Washington Townhomes Priced from: $240,000 School district: City of Pittsburgh Agency: Coldwell Banker Real Estate 412-521-2222 liveatsweetbriarvillage.com Vista Grande City of Pittsburgh/Mt. Washington Condominiums Priced from: $525,000 School district: City of Pittsburgh Agency: Howard Hanna Real Estate Services 412-481-0000 howardhanna.com Washington’s Landing City of Pittsburgh Contemporary Townhouses Priced from: $345,000 School district: Pittsburgh Agency: RE/MAX Select Shadyside 724-933-6300 X110 Wylie Ave. Homes East Allegheny /Hill District Single-family homes Priced from: $140,000 School district: City of Pittsburgh Agency: Northwood Realty 412-367-3200 northwood.com

ALLEGHENY COUNTY Altmyer Fields Marshall Township Courtyard single living Priced from: $330,000 School district: North Allegheny Agency: Weaver Homes 877-836-5320 weaverhomes.com Autumn Woods Moon Township Custom single-family homes Priced from: $330,000 School district: Moon Area Agency: S&A Realty 1-855-SAHOME1 sahomebuilder.com Avonworth Heights Ohio Township Custom single-family homes Priced from: $425,000 School district: Avonworth Agency: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices 412-367-8000 thepreferredrealty.com

Bedner Estates Upper Saint Clair Single-family homes Priced from: $520,000 School district: Upper Saint Clair Agency: Heartland Homes 724-871-1712 HeartlandLuxuryHomes.com The Berkshires South Fayette Township Single-family homes and townhomes Priced from: $220,000 single-family, $190,000 townhomes School district: South Fayette Agency: Ryan Homes 412-914-2031 ryanhomes.com Blackburn Heights Sewickley Custom single-family homes School district: Avonworth Agency: S&A Realty 1-855-SAHOME1 sahomebuilder.com Brandywine Elizabeth Township Single-family homes Priced from: $170,000 School district: Elizabeth Forward Agency: Maronda Homes, Inc 412-896-1845 www.marondahomes.com Castletown Franklin Park Custom single-family homes Priced from: $650,000 School district: North Allegheny Agency: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices 412-367-8000 thepreferredrealty.com Castletown Franklin Township Single-family estate homes Priced from: $650,000 School district: North Allegheny Agency: Brennan Builders Real Estate Services 724-865-2929 Brennanbuilders.com Centennial Point Collier Township Townhomes and carriage homes Priced from: $200,000 townhomes, $240,000 carriage homes Chartiers Valley Agency: S&A Realty 1-855-SAHOME1 sahomebuilder.com

Chapel Harbor Fox Chapel Carriage homes, townhomes and single-family homes Priced from: $249,900 School district: Fox Chapel Area Agency: Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services 412-963-7655 liveinchapelharbor.com Chapel Hill Estates Marshall Township Single family homes Priced from: $800,000 School district: North Allegheny Agency: Achieve Realty Chapel Pointe Fox Chapel Condominiums Priced from: $300,000 School district: Fox Chapel Area Agency: Howard Hanna Real Estate

Services

412-963-6085 howardhanna.com Chartiers Landing Robinson Township Single-family homes Priced from: $375,000 School district: Montour Agency: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices 412-262-4630 thepreferredrealty.com Cimarron Moon Township Single-family homes Priced from: $250,000 School district: Moon Area Agency: Ryan Homes 412-264-5029 ryanhomes.com Cobblestone Ohio Township Single-family homes Priced from: $290,000 School district: Avonworth Agency: Ryan Homes 412-367-1927 ryanhomes.com Cobblestone Ohio Township Single-family homes Priced from: $310,000 School district: Avonworth Agency: S&A Realty 1-855-SAHOME1 sahomebuilder.com

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38 GREATER PITTSBURGH’S NEW HOME

| Winter 2015

Copper Creek Marshall Township Luxury estate custom homes Priced from: $1,200,000 School district: North Allegheny Agency: Eddy Homes 412-221-0400 EddyHomes.com Courtyards at The Preserves North Fayette Township Detached carriage, patio homes Priced from: $237,900 School district: West Allegheny Agency: Epcon Homes and Communities 412-548-3298 www.epconcommunities.com Cross Creek Hampton Township Priced from: $330,000 School district: Hampton Agency: Ryan Homes 724-249-6835 ryanhomes.com Deerfield Ridge South Fayette Township Custom single-family homes Priced from: $375,000 Agency: Paragon Homes 412-787-8807 VisitParagonHomes.com Della Strada South Park Single-family homes Coming soon School district: South Park Agency: Ryan Homes 724-249-6835 Ryanhomes.com Edgewater at Oakmont Oakmont Single-family homes, condos, townhomes, duplexes and apartments Priced from: $396,900 School district: Riverview Agency: KACIN 412-877-1055 www.KACIN.com E lane @ Carnegie Carnegie Garden style condominiums Priced from: $194,900 School district: Carlton Agency: RE/MAX Select Realty 412-633-9300 ext. 214 724-309-1758 elane.biz Emerald Fields Pine Township Single-family homes Priced from: $590,000 School district: Pine Richland Agency: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices 724-776-3686 thepreferredrealty.com Emerald Fields Pine township Single-family homes Priced from: $540,000 School district: Pine Richland Agency: Heartland Homes 724-871-1702 HeartlandLuxuryHomes.com

The Enclave Fox Chapel Single-family homes Priced from: $950,000 School district: Fox Chapel Area Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services 412-963-7655 pittsburghmoves.com/TheEnclave

The Estates at Jefferson Jefferson Borough Single-family homes Priced from: $275,000 Agency: Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services 412-655-0400 pittsburghmoves.com /estatesatjefferson Fair Acres Upper St. Clair Custom single-family homes Priced from: $600,000 School district: Upper St. Clair Agency: Prudential Preferred Reality 412- 833-7700 www.fairacresusc.com

Fayette Farms North Fayette Single-family homes Priced from: $230,000 School district: West Allegheny Agency: Ryan Homes 724-218-1328 ryanhomes.com Fayette Farms Estates North Fayette Township Custom Homes Priced from: $400,000 School district: West Allegheny Agency: Keller Williams 412-787-0888 Field Brook Farms Richland Township Single-family homes Priced from: $500,000 School district: Pine-Richland Agency: Howard Hanna Real Estate Services 724-772-8822 howardhanna.com

Fields of Nicholson Franklin Park Borough Custom carriage-homes from $553,900, Custom villas from $469,900 School district: North Allegheny Agency: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices 412-367-8000 thepreferredrealty.com Forest Oaks at Wexford Wexford Single-family Priced from: $199,900 School district: North Allegheny Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services 412-366-1600 pittsburghmoves.com /forestoaksatwexford Forest View Indiana Township Single-family homes Priced from: $500,000 School district: Fox Chapel Agency: Howard Hanna Real Estate Services 724-772-8822 ricciuticonstruction.com howardhanna.com Foxwood Knolls Moon Township Single-family homes Priced from: $260,000 School district: Moon Area Agency: Ryan Homes 412-264-5029 ryanhomes.com

Foxwood Knolls Moon Township Single-family homes Priced from: $220,000 School district: Moon Area Agency: Maronda Homes, Inc 412-287-6256 www.marondahomes.com Georgetowne Pine Township Luxury townhomes Priced from: $529,000 School district: Pine-Richland Agency: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices 412-367-8000 thepreferredrealty.com

Grace Manor Robinson Township Townhomes Priced from: $170,000 School district: Montour Agency: Maronda Homes, Inc 412-329-7017 www.marondahomes.com Granite Ridge South Fayette Township Townhomes and single-family homes Priced from: $150,000 School district: South Fayette Agency: Maronda Homes, Inc 412-523-1547 and 724-307-3079 www.marondahomes.com

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ALLEGHENY COUNTY

English Farms Pine Township Custom single-family homes Priced from: $400,000 School district: Pine-Richland Agency: S&A Realty 1-855-SAHOME1 sahomebuilder.com

Falconhurst Forest Fox Chapel Single-family homes Priced from: $700,000 School district: Fox Chapel Area Agency: Howard Hanna Real Estate Services 412-963-6300 howardhanna.com

ALLEGHENY COUNTY

Hampton Woodlands Hampton Township Single-family homes Priced from: $490,000 School district: Hampton Agency: Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services 412-487-0500 www.pittsburghmoves.com/ HamptonWoodlands The Heights of North Park Pine Township Custom single-family Priced from: $900,000 School district: Pine-Richland Agency: RE/MAX Select 724-779-7072 The HeightsofNorth Park.com Hidden Falls Fox Chapel Carriage Homes Priced from: mid $500,000 School district: Fox Chapel Area Agency: Howard Hanna Real Estate Services 412-963-6300 howardhanna.com

Highpointe II Scott Township Luxury Townhouses Priced from: $274,900 School district: Chartiers Valley Agency: Howard Hanna Real Estate Services 412-833-3600 howardhanna.com

Lake MacLeod Pine Township Single-family homes Priced from: $750,000 School district: Pine-Richland Agency: Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services 412-487-0500 or 412-366-1600 lakemacleod.com

Hunters Fields Jefferson Hills Borough Single-family homes Priced from: $200,000 School district: West Jefferson Hills Agency: Maronda Homes, Inc 412-405-9470 www.marondahomes.com

Langdon Farms Pine Township Single family homes Priced from: $725,000 School district: Pine-Richland Agency: Achieve Realty 412-720-9033 barringtonhomespa.com

HyTyre Farms West Deer Township Carriage Homes Priced from: $224,000 School district: Deer Lakes Agency: Richland Holdings, LLC 724-443-4800

Lenox Place Finley Township Villas and townhomes Priced from: $211,900 School district: West Allegheny Agency: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices 412-262-4630 thepreferredrealty.com

Jefferson Estates Jefferson Borough Carriage homes Priced from: $199,000 Agency: Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services 412-655-0400 pittsburghmoves.com/jeffersonestates

The Highlands Plum Borough Single-family homes Priced from: $250,000 School district: Plum Borough Agency: Ryan Homes 412-793-4797 ryanhomes.com

Lake MacLeod Pine Township Single-family homes PRICed from: $900,000 School district: Pine-Richland Agency: Achieve Realty 412-720-9033 barringtonhomespa.com

The Links at Deer Run West Deer Golf course community, carriage homes Priced from: $220,000 School district: Deer Lakes Agency: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices 724-776-3686 thepreferredrealty.com

Long Ridge Kennedy Township Single-family homes Priced from: $230,000 School district: Montour Agency: Ryan Homes 412-771-1456 ryanhomes.com

McCandless Crossing McCandless Township Townhomes Priced from: $270,000 School district: North Allegheny Agency: Ryan Homes 412-852-0677 ryanhomes.com

Long Ridge Kennedy Township Single-family homes Priced from: $202,000 School district: Montour Agency: Maronda Homes, Inc 412-458-0678 www.marondahomes.com

McCormick Farms Moon/Crescent Township Custom single-family homes Priced from: High $400’s School district: Moon Area Agency: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices 412-262-4630 thepreferredrealty.com

Longvue Ross Township Priced from: $220,000 Agency: Ryan Homes 724-249-6835 ryanhomes.com Madison Woods Moon/Crescent Township Custom single-family homes Priced from: $350,000 School district: Moon Area Agency: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices 412-262-4630 thepreferredrealty.com The Manor McCandless Custom single-family Priced from: $575,000 School district: North Allegheny Agency: RE/MAX Select Realty 724-779-7072 ManorCustomHomes.com

McCormick Farms Robinson Township Single-family homes Priced from: $240,000 School district: Montour Agency: Maronda Homes, Inc 412-788-3646 www.marondahomes.com The Meadows at Hampton Hampton Township First floor living homes Priced from: $399,000 School district: Hampton Agency: RE/MAX Select Realty 724-779-7070 MeadowsAtHampton.com

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| Winter 2015

Millennium Woods Bethel Park Coming Soon School district: Bethel Park Agency: Ryan Homes 724-249-6835 ryanhomes.com

Nevilleside

Newbury South Fayette Single-family homes Priced from: $390,000 School district: South Fayette Agency: S&A Realty 1-855-SAHOME1 sahomebuilder.com Newbury South Fayette Townhomes Priced from: $290,000 School district: South Fayette Agency: Heartland Homes 724-871-0175 HeartlandLuxuryHomes.com Newbury South Fayette Single family estate homes Priced from: $629,000 School district: South Fayette Agency: KACIN 724-327-6694 www.KACIN.com

Paragon Place Robinson Township Custom estate homes Priced from: $500,000 School district: Montour Agency: Paragon Homes 412-787-8807 VisitParagonHomes.com

Pleasant Ridge Pine Township Single-family homes Priced from: $440,000 School district: Pine-Richland Agency: Heartland Homes 724-871-1702 HeartlandLuxuryHomes.com

North Park Manor Pine Township Single-family Homes Priced from: $800,000 School district: Pine Richland Agency: Achieve Realty 412-720-9033 barringtonhomespa.com

Park Place Indiana Township Single-family homes Priced from: $750,000 School district: Fox Chapel Agency: Howard Hanna Real Estate Services 412-963-6300 howardhanna.com

Prestley Heights Carnegie Townhomes Priced from: $150,000 Agency: Ryan Homes 412-595-8292 ryanhomes.com

Oakridge Estates Harrison Township Townhomes and single-family homes Priced from: $140,000, $170,000 single-family School district: Highland Agency: Maronda Homes, Inc 724-895-3876 www.marondahomes.com Oakwood Heights West Deer Township Single-family homes Priced from: $219,900 School district: Deer Lakes Agency: Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services 724-776-2900 pittsburghmoves.com/ oakwoodheights

Parkview Estates Richland Township Single-family homes Priced from: $310,000 School district: Pine-Richland Agency: Ryan Homes 724-444-3177 ryanhomes.com Pinecrest Pine Township Single-family homes Priced from: $410,000 School district: Pine-Richland Agency: Heartland Homes 724-871-1702 HeartlandLuxuryHomes.com

Private Acreage South Fayette Single-family homes Priced from: $300,000 School district: South Fayette Agency: Paragon Homes 412-787-8807 VisitParagonHomes.com Raintree Manor Hampton Township Townhomes Priced from: $225,000 School district: Hampton Agency: Minnock Construction Company 412-366-4770 Raintree Manor Hampton Township Townhomes Priced from: $210,000 School district: Hampton Agency: Heartland Homes 724-871-1710 HeartlandLuxuryHomes.com

Reddington Place Pine Township Single-family homes Priced from: $600,000 School district: Pine-Richland Agency: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices 412-367-8000 thepreferredrealty.com The Reserve at Fox Chase Fox Chapel Area Patio and carriage homes Priced from: $299,900 School district: Allegheny Valley Agency: Dennis Associates 412-828-7606 The Ridge at Manor Pine Township Single-family homes Priced from: $850,000 School district: Pine-Richland Agency: Howard Hanna Real Estate Services 724-772-8822 howardhanna.com Ridge Forest Franklin Park Single-family homes and townhomes Priced from: $340,000 single-family, $220,000 townhomes School district: North Allegheny Agency: Ryan Homes 724-933-3162 singles 724-934-5822 townhouses ryanhomes.com

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ALLEGHENY COUNTY

Collier Township Carriage homes Priced from: $310,000 School district: Chartiers Valley Agency: Ryan Homes 724-693-8140 ryanhomes.com

Noble Woods Moon Township Townhomes Coming Soon! School district: Moon Area Agency: Ryan Homes 412-595-8292 ryanhomes.com

ALLEGHENY COUNTY BEAVER COUNTY

The Rivers Edge at Oakmont Oakmont Single-family, duplexes, condominiums and apartments Priced from: $500,000 School district: Riverview Agency: Howard Hanna Real Estate Services 412-427-0654 howardhanna.com Sangree Farms Ross Township Custom single-family homes Priced from: $500,000 School district: North Hills Agency: Minnock Real Estate Services 412-369-7253 Seabright North Fayette Township Single-family homes Priced from: $190,000 School district: West Allegheny Agency: Maronda Homes, Inc 412-874-9764 www.marondahomes.com Sewickley Heights Manor Aleppo Township Custom single-family homes Priced from: $300,000 School district: Quaker Valley Agency: Minnock Construction Company 412-366-4770 Silver Pines Pine Richland Townships Single-family homes Priced from: $850,000 School district: Pine Richland Agency: Howard Hanna Real Estate Services 412-934-3400 Stafford Park Robinson Township Single-family homes Priced from: $350,000 School district: Montour Agency: Heartland Homes 724-871-1734 HeartlandLuxuryHomes.com

BUTLER COUNTY

Steeple Chase Whitehall Coming Soon! School district: Baldwin Whitehall Agency: Ryan Homes 724-249-6835 Stonebridge Hampton Township Single-family and estate homes Priced from: $460,000 School district: Hampton Agency: Heartland Homes 724-871-1708 HeartlandLuxuryHomes.com Stonebridge Hampton Township Single-family homes, carriage homes Priced from: $500,000 single-family homes; $289,000 Custom carriage homes SCHOOL district: Hampton Agency: Century 21 Town & Country Real Estate Services 724-779-2101 PghPropertyOnline.com

Sturbridge Court Wexford/Franklin Park Single-family homes Priced from: $550,000 School district: North Allegheny Agency: Howard Hanna Real Estate Services 412-772-8822 howardhanna.com Summerfield at North Park Pine Township Single-family homes Priced from: $950,000 School district: Pine-Richland Agency: Achieve Realty, Inc. 724-933-1980 X667 The Summit Marshall Township Single-family homes Priced from: $800,000 School district: North Allegheny Agency: Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services 412-366-1600 pittsburghmoves.com/ thesummit Traditions of America at Sewickley Ridge Ohio Township Single-family homes, 55+ Priced from: mid $200,000 School district: Avonworth Agency: Traditions of America 412-534-4232 SewickleyLiving.com Tuscany Ridge Collier Township Single-family homes Priced from: $215,000 School district: Chartiers Valley Agency: Maronda Homes, Inc 412-200-2781 www.marondahomes.com Venango Trails Marshall Township Townhomes and single-family homes Priced from: $310,000 School district: North Allegheny Agency: Heartland Homes 724-871-1720 HeartlandLuxuryHomes.com Venango Trails Marshall Township Single-family homes Priced from: $360,000 School district: North Allegheny Agency: S & A Realty 1-855-SAHOME1 sahomebuilder.com Venango Trails Marshall Township Single-family homes Priced from: $430,000 School district: North Allegheny Agency: Brennan Builders 724-865-2929 Brennanbuilders.com Village at Camp Trees Pine Township Single-family and estate homes Priced from: $490,000 School district: Pine Richland Agency: Heartland Homes 724-949-0079 HeartlandLuxuryHomes.com

42 GREATER PITTSBURGHâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S NEW HOME

| Winter 2015

Village At Marshall Ridge Marshall Township Townhomes Priced from: $220,000 School district: North Allegheny Agency: Ryan Homes 724-933-4030 ryanhomes.com Village at Pine Pine Township Townhomes Priced from: $240,000 School district: Pine-Richland Agency: Ryan Homes 724-940-4051 ryanhomes.com Walkers Ridge Collier Township Single-family homes Priced from: $270,000 School district: Chartiers Valley Agency: Paragon Homes 412-787-8807 VisitParagonHomes.com Washington Square Jefferson Hills Borough Single-family homes Priced from: $230,000 School district: West Jefferson Hills Agency: Ryan Homes 724-945-3586 ryanhomes.com Waterford Place McCandless Township Single-family homes Priced from: $330,000 Agency: Ryan Homes 412-852-0677 Whispering Creek Hampton Township Custom single-family homes Priced from: $450,000 School district: Hampton Agency: Century 21 Town & Country Real Estate Services 724-779-2101 PghPropertyOnline.com Willow Farms Fox Chapel Borouth Single-family homes Priced from:$1,200,000 School district: Fox Chapel Area Agency: Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services 412-963-7655 www.pittsburghmoves.com/ WillowFarms Wiltshire Estates Moon Township Townhomes Priced from: $150,000 School district: Moon Area Agency: Maronda Homes, Inc 412-474-3529 www.marondahomes.com Wood Creek Manor Findlay Township Townhomes and carriage homes Priced from: $160,000 School district: West Allegheny Agency: Maronda Homes, Inc 412-474-3529 www.marondahomes.com

Deerfield Ridge

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BEAVER COUNTY Ashley Ridge Brighton Township Single-family homes Priced from: $230,000 School district: Beaver Area Agency: Ryan Homes 412-771-1456 ryanhomes.com Aspen Field Brighton Township Single-family homes Priced from: $200,000 School district: Beaver Agency: Maronda Homes, Inc 412-287-6256 www.marondahomes.com Barclay Hill Estates Brighton Township Villas Priced from: $226,900 School district: Beaver Area Agency: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices thepreferredrealty.com Clearwater Estates Franklin Township Carriage Homes Priced from: $168,000 School district: Riverside Agency: Howard Hanna Real Estate Services 724-846-5440 howardhanna.com Goldenrod Meadows North Sewickley Township Single-family homes Priced from: $250,000 School district: Riverside Agency: Howard Hanna Real Estate Services 7224-775-5700 howardhanna.com Hickory Woods Chippewa Township Single-family homes Priced from: $270,000 School district: Blackhawk Agency: Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services 724-776-2900 www.pittsburghmoves.com/HickoryWoods Seven Oaks Brighton Township Golf-course community with single-family custom homes and carriage homes Priced from: $229,900 School district: Beaver Area Agency: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices 724-776-3686 thepreferredrealty.com

Sweet Brier Hopewell Township Single-family homes Priced from: $180,000 School district: Hopewell Agency: Maronda Homes, Inc 412-287-6256 www.marondahomes.com Traditions of America at Liberty Hills New Sewickley Township/ Economy Borough 55+ Lifestyle Living/ Single-family and garden homes/ Maintenance Free Priced from: $200,000s Agency: Traditions of America 724-869-5595 TraditionsofAmerica.com The Village at Timberwood Trace Chippewa Township Carriage Homes Priced from: $168,000 School district: Blackhawk Agency: Howard Hanna Real Estate Services 724-775-5700 howardhanna.com Villas of Economy Economy Borough Condos, Townhomes and Single-family homes Priced from: $249,900 School district: Ambridge Area Agency: Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services 412-366-1600 pittsburghmoves.com/villasofeconomy Whispering Pines Economy Borough Single-family homes Priced from: $190,000 School district: Ambridge Area Agency: Maronda Homes, Inc 412-287-6256 www.marondahomes.com

BUTLER COUNTY Amherst Village Adams Township Priced from: $310,000 Agency: Ryan Homes 724-625-2073

Foxmoor Cranberry Township Townhomes and carriage homes Priced from: $230,000 townhomes; $310,000 carriage homes School district: Seneca Valley Agency: S & A Realty 1-855-SAHOME1 sahomebuilder.com

Blackberry Heights Adams Township Single-family homes Priced from: $270,000 School district: Mars Area Agency: Ryan Homes 724-898-1800 ryanhomes.com

Foxwood Estates Cranberry Township Single-family homes Priced from: $850,000 School district: Seneca Valley Agency: Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services 412-366-1600 pittsburghmoves.com/foxwoodestates

Blackthorn Penn Township Single-family home sites/Singlefamily homes Priced from: $66,000/$379,900 School district: South Butler Agency: Northwood Realty 724-282-1313 northwood.com Blossom Ridge Butler Township Single-family homes Priced from: $300,000 School district: Butler Agency: Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services 724-776-2900 www.pittsburghmoves.com/ BlossomRidge Carriage Manor Cranberry Township Single-family homes Priced from: $700,000 School district: Seneca Valley Agency: Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services 724-776-2900 pittsburghmoves.com/ carriagemanor Chatham Court Adams Township Luxury paired villas Priced from: $650,000 School district: Mars Area Agency: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices 724-776-3686 thepreferredrealty.com Cherrywood Springs Center Township Single-family log homes .5 to 10 acre lots School district: Butler Area Agency: Northwood Realty 724-282-1313 northwood.com Ehrman Farms Cranberry Township Single-family homes Priced from: $600,000 School district: Seneca Valley Agency: Howard Hanna Real Estate Services 724-452-1150 howardhanna.com

ALLEGHENY COUNTY

BelleVue Park Cranberry Township Traditional and estate single family homes Priced from: $300,000 School district: Seneca Valley Agency: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices 724-776-3686

We Are peoples. Chad Dochinez Mary Kay Coyne Dan Evans

Joseph Walker

Franklin Crossing Cranberry Township Single-family homes Priced from: $430,000 School district: Seneca Valley Agency: Heartland Homes 724-949-0079 HeartlandLuxuryHomes.com Fulton Criossing Adams Township Single-family homes Priced from: $430,000 School district: Mars Area Agency: Heartland Homes 724-949-0079 HeartlandLuxuryHomes.com The Gables Adams Township Carriage Homes Priced from: $370,000 School district: Mars Area Agency: Howard Hanna Real Estate Services 724-934-3400 howardhanna.com The Gables at Brickyard Hill Adams Township Custom carriage homes Priced from: $300,000 School district: Mars Area Agency: Century 21 Town & Country Real Estate Services 724-779-2101 PghPropertyOnline.com Georgetown Square Cranberry Township Townhomes and carriage homes Priced from: $250,000 School district: Seneca Valley Agency: Georgetown Square Associates 412-366-4770 Indian Meadow Adams Township Custom single-family homes Priced from: $600,000 School district: Mars Area Agency: Century 21 Town & Country Real Estate Services 724-779-2101 PghPropertyOnline.com

Peoples is a natural gas distribution company that has been providing Western Pennsylvania with clean, safe and reliable natural gas service for more than 125 years. From the industrial age to the technology era, Peoples has been an integral part of the fabric that makes up this region. Today, we serve approximately 420,000 homes and businesses across 18 Western Pennsylvania counties.

Our vision is to help Western Pennsylvania move forward by serving our customers well, creating family-sustaining jobs and supporting economic development in the region.

From the nearly 1,000 Peoples Gas employees living and working right here in Western Pennsylvania, we look forward to serving you and your communities, now and in the future.

We're Peoples. Your Hometown Natural Gas Company. www.peoples-gas.com

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carsonpublishing.com www.greaterpittsburghnewhome.com

John Quincy Adams Estates Adams Township Single family homes Priced from: $649,000 School district: Mars Area Agency; Achieve Realty Kingsridge Adams Township Priced from: $310,000 Agency: Ryan Homes 724-249-6835 ryanhomes.com Kingsridge Adams Township Custom single-family homes Priced from: $330,000 School district: Mars Area Agency: S&A Realty 1-855-SAHOME1 sahomebuilder.com Lakeview Adams Township Townhomes Priced from: $245,000 School district: Mars Area Agency: Howard Hanna Real Estate Services 724-934-3400 howardhanna.com

BUTLER COUNTY

Leslie Farms Connoquenessing Borough Single-family Priced from $200,000 School District: Butler Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services 724-776-2900 Pittsburghmoves.com/ LeslieFarms Leslie Farms Connoquenessing Borough Single-family homes Priced from: $220,000 School district: Butler Area Agency: S & A Realty 1-855-SAHOME1 sahomebuilder.com Madison Heights Cranberry Township Custom single-family homes Priced from: $700,000 School district: Seneca Valley Agency: Century 21 Town & Country Real Estate Services 724-779-2101 PghPropertyOnline.com Marshall Heights Cranberry Township Single-family homes Priced from: $250,000 School district: Seneca Valley Agency: Maronda Homes, Inc 724-538-3911 www.marondahomes.com Meadow Ridge Forward Township Single-family homes Priced from: $260,000 School district: Seneca Valley Agency: S&A Realty 1-855-SAHOME1 sahomebuilder.com

44 GREATER PITTSBURGHâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S NEW HOME

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Meadow Ridge Forward Township Single-family homes Priced from: $250,000 School district: Seneca Valley Agency: Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services 724-776-2900 pittsburghmoves.com/meadowridge Meredith Glen Estates Adams Township Custom single-family homes Priced from: $850,000 School district: Mars Area Agency: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices 724-776-3686 thepreferredrealty.com Oak Trace Penn and Butler Townships Single-family homes Priced from: $350,000 School district: South Butler Agency: Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services 724-776-2900 www.pittsburghmoves.com/ OakTrace The Oaks Buffalo Township Single-family homes Priced from: $350,000 Agency: Northwood Realty northwood.com

The Pointe At Adams Ridge Adams Township Townhomes Priced from: $220,000 School district: Mars Area Agency: Ryan Homes 724-776-5610 ryanhomes.com Poplar Forest Slippery Rock Borough Single-family homes Priced from: $250,000 25 lots from.6 to 5 acres Agency: Northwood Realty northwood.com The Preserve West Cranberry Township Custom single-family homes Priced from: $550,000 School district: Seneca Valley Agency: Century 21 Town & Country Real Estate Services 724-779-2101 PghPropertyOnline.com Redmond Place Cranberry Township Custom carriage homes Priced from: $370,000 SCHOOL DIstrict: Seneca Valley Agency: Century 21 Town & Country Real Estate Services 724-779-2101 PghPropertyOnline.com

The Oaks Buffalo Township Single-family homes Priced from: $299,900 School district: Freeport Area Agency: Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services 412-366-1600 homesattheoaks.com

Sarvers Mill Buffalo Township Single-family homes Priced from: $240,000 School district: Freeport Area Agency: S&A Realty 1-855-SAHOME1 sahomebuilder.com

Park Place Cranberry Township Townhomes and singlefamiky-homes Priced from: $220,000 School district: Seneca Valley Agency: Ryan Homes 724-778-9946

Seaton Crest Adams Township Single-family homes Priced from: $350,000 School district: Mars Area Agency: S&A Realty 1-855-SAHOME1 sahomebuilder.com

Park Place Cranberry Township Traditional neighborhood development single-family homes, townhomes, condos, rentals, retail Priced from: $350,000 School district: Seneca Valley Agency: Northwood Realty 724-776-1863

Shadow Creek Cranberry Township Custom single-family homes Priced from: $500,000 School district: Seneca Valley Agency: Century 21 Town & Country Real Estate Services 724-779-2101 PghPropertyOnline.com

Plantation at Saxonburg Clinton Township Carriage homes Priced from $200,000â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s School district: South Butler Agency: S&A Realty 1-855-SAHOME1 sahomebuilder.com

Shady Lane Farms Center Township Custom single-family homes Priced from: $300,000 School district: Butler Area Agency: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices 724-283-0005 thepreferredrealty.com

Plantations Lancaster Township Single-family homes Priced from: $410,000 School district: Seneca Valley Agency: Brennan Realty 724-687-9097

Shannon Mills Connoquenessing Township Single-family homes Priced from: $329,000 School district: Butler Area Agency: Howard Hanna Real Estate Services 724-282-7903 howardhanna.com Sonoma Valley Connoqenessing Township Patio and courtyard homes Priced from: $230,000 School district: Butler Agency: Weaver Homes 877-836-9177 weaverhomes.com Taylor Ridge Adams Township Single-family estate homes Priced from: $430,000 School district: Mars Area Agency: Ryan Homes 724-625-2073 ryanhomes.com Timber Ridge Lancaster Township Single-family-homes Priced from: $430,000 School district: Seneca Valley Agency: Brennan Builders 724-687-9097

Timberlee Connoquenessing Township Single-family-homes Priced from: $300,000 School district: Butler Area Agency: Brennan Builders 724-865-2929 Brennanbuilders.com.com

The Village at Treesdale Adams Township Carriage Homes Priced from: $350,000 School district: Mars Area Agency: Brennan Builders 724-865-2929 Brennanbuilders.com

Vista Ridge Adams Township Single family homes Priced from: $350,000 School district: Mars Area Agency: Weaver Homes 877-839-1578 weaverhomes.com

Weatherburn Heights Middlesex Township Single-family homes Priced from: $310,000 School district: Mars Area Agency: Ryan Homes 724-898-0010 ryanhomes.com

Timberlee Farms Connoquenessing Township Single-family-homes Priced from: $300,000 School district: Butler Area Agency: Brennan Realty 724-687-9097

The Vineyards Connoqenessing Township Single family homes Priced from: $300,000 School district: Butler Agency: Weaver Homes 877-279-1043 weaverhomes.com

Wakefield Estates Cranberry Township Custom single-family homes Priced from: $575,000 School district: Seneca Valley Agency: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices 724-776-3686 thepreferredrealty.com

Wilsons Ridge Single-family homes Priced from: $210,000 School district: Seneca Valley Agency: Maronda Homes, Inc 724-538-3911 www.marondahomes.com

Village at Camp Trees Adams Township Single-family and estate homes Priced from: $490,000 School district: Mars Area Agency: Heartland Homes 724-949-0079 HeartlandLuxuryHomes.com The Village at Treesdale Adams Township Custom carriage homes Priced from: Mid-$300â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s School district: Mars Area Agency: Howard Hanna Real Estate Services 412-687-0157 howardhanna.com

Village of Harmony Junction Jackson Township Townhomes Priced from: $150,000 School district: Seneca Valley Agency: Maronda Homes, Inc 724-538-3911 www.marondahomes.com Vista Ridge Adams Township Custom Single-family homes Priced from: $340,000 School district: Mars Area Agency: S&A Realty 1-855-SAHOME1 sahomebuilder.com

Walden Pond Cranberry Township Estate Homes Priced from: $710,000 School district: Seneca Valley Agency: Heartland Homes 724-949-0079 HeartlandLuxuryHomes.com

Wyncrest Estates Butler Township Single-family homes Priced from: $250,000 School district: Butler Area Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services 412-366-1600 pittsburghmoves.com/wyncrestestates

www.greaterpittsburghnewhome.com

BUTLER COUNTY

Walkers Ridge Worth Township Farmlettes Priced from: $74,900 School district: Slippery Rock Agency: Northwood Realty 724-458-8800 northwood.com

Winterwood Butler Southwest Single-family homes Priced from: $300,000 Six wooded lots available Agency: Northwood Realty northwood.com

WASHINGTON COUNTY Anthony Farms Peters Township Single-family homes Priced from: $650,000 Agency: Howard Hanna Real Estate Services 412-276-5000 howardhanna.com Apple Hill Canonsburg Single-family homes Priced from: $190,000 School district: CanonMcMillan Agency: Maronda Homes, Inc 724-873-7455 www.marondahomes.com Bridgeview North Strabane Township Townhomes Priced from: $200,000 School district: CanonMcMillan Agency: Howard Hanna Real Estate Services 412-748-9470 howardhanna.com

WASHINGTON COUNTY

Bradford Run South Strabane Township Townhomes and carriage homes Priced from: Townhomes, $200,000; carriage homes, $290,000 School district: Trinity Area Agency: S&A Realty 1-855-SAHOME1 sahomebuilder.com Brookwood Manor Peters Township Luxury custom estate homes Priced from: $900,000 School district: Peters Township Agency: Century 21 Frontier Realty 724-941-8680 EddyHomes.com Brookview Peters Township Carriage homes Priced from: $349,900 School district: Peters Township Agency: Keller Williams 412-831-3800 The Brookview Villas Peters Township Custom villa homes Priced from: $350,000 School district: Peters Township Agency: Paragon Homes 412-787-8807 visitparagonhomes.com The Crossings Peters Township Luxury custom villa homes Priced from: $300,000 School district: Peters Township Agency: Century 21 Frontier Realty 724-941-8680 EddyHomes.com

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Evergreen Village Peters Township Villas Priced from: $400,000 School district: Peters Township Agency: Howard Hanna Real Estae Services 724-941-8800 howardhanna.com Fair Acres Upper St. Clair Custom single-family homes Priced from: Lots, $650,000 School district: Upper St Clair Agency: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices 724-833-7700 thepreferredrealty.com Highcroft Cecil Township Single-family homes Priced from: $280,000 Agency: Ryan Homes 724-745-6410 ryanhomes.com Ironwood II Cecil Township Single-family homes Priced from: $450,000 School district: Canon McMillan Agency: Heartland Homes 724-871-1738 HeartlandLuxuryHomes.com Majestic Hills North Strabane Township Single-family homes Priced from: $260,000 School district: CanonMcMillan Agency: Ryan Homes 724-745-6410 ryanhomes.com Meadow Ridge Peters Township Single-family homes Priced from: $685,900 School district: Peters Township Agency: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices 412-833-7700 thepreferredrealty.com Mission Hills Cecil Township Carriage and villa homes Priced from: $228,500 School district: CanonMcMillan Agency: Epcon Homes and Communities 724-223-1844 epconcarriagehomes.com Oakbrook Estates Cecil Township Single-family homes Priced from: $250,000 Agency: Ryan Homes 724-745-5083 ryanhomes.com

Summerbrooke

Orchard Hill Peters Township Single-family homes Priced from: $310,000 School district: Peters Township Agency: Ryan Homes 412-835-1869 ryanhomes.com

Summerbrooke

The Overlook at Peters Peters Township Single-family homes Priced from: $450,000 School district: Peters Township Agency: Howard Hanna Real Estate Services 724-941-8800 howardhanna.com

North Strabane Township Single-family homes Priced from: $340,000 School district: Canon-McMillan Agency: Heartland Homes 724-871-1719 HeartlandLuxuryHomes.com

North Strabane Township Single-family homes Priced from: $500,000 School district: Canon-McMillan Agency: Howard Hanna Real Estae Services 724-941-8800 howardhanna.com The Summit Chartiers Township Single-family homes Priced from: $190,000 School district: Chartiers-Houston Agency: Maronda Homes, Inc 724-873-7455 www.marondahomes.com

The Overlook At Southpointe Cecil Township Single-family homes Priced from: $290,000 School district: Canon-McMillan Agency: Ryan Homes 724-745-5083 ryanhomes.com

Timber Run Cecil Township Single-family homes Priced from: $230,000 School district: Canon-McMillan Agency: Ryan Homes 724-745-6410 ryanhomes.com

Overlook at Southpointe Cecil Township Single-family homes Priced from: $390,000 School district: Canon McMillan Agency: Heartland Homes 724-949-0079 HeartlandLuxuryHomes.com

Tuscany Estates Union Township Townhomes, single-family and patiohomes Priced from: $130,000 $180,000 single-family School district: Ringgold Agency: Maronda Homes, Inc 724-348-6472 www.marondahomes.com

Piatt Estates Chartiers Township Single-family homes Priced from: $280,000 School district: Chartiers/ Houston Agency: S&A Realty 1-855-SAHOME1 sahomebuilder.com Sandy Brae Meadows North Strabane Township Townhomes Priced from: $190,000 School district: Canon-McMillan Agency: Maronda Homes, Inc 724-873-7455 www.marondahomes.com Strabane Manor South Strabane Township Townhomes Priced from: $160,000 School district: Trinity Agency: Maronda Homes, Inc 724-229-1470 www.marondahomes.com

Walnut Ridge South Fayette Township Single-family homes Priced from: $330,000 School district: South Fayette Agency: Ryan Homes 412-914-2031 ryanhomes.com Waterdam Farms North Strabane Township Carriage homes Priced from: $300,000 School district: Canon-McMillan Agency: Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services 412-833-5404 pittsburghmoves.com/ waterdamfarms Weavertown Pointe Cecil Township Townhomes Priced from: $210,000 Agency: Ryan Homes 724-745-3680 ryanhomes.com Weavertown Woodlands North Strabane Township Carriage homes Priced from: $300,000 School district: Canon-McMillan Agency: Howard Hanna Real Estate Services 724-222-6040 howardhanna.com

Acropolis Heights Unity Township Custom single-family homes Priced from: $620,000 School district: Greater Latrobe Agency: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices 724-838-3660 thepreferredrealty.com Allegheny Woodlands Allegheny Township Custom single-family and cottage villas Priced from: low $200,000 single-family and $180,000 cottage villas School district: Kiski Area Agency: Howard Hanna Real Estate Services 724-339-4000 howardhanna.com Augusta Penn Township Single-family homes Priced from: Lots, $53,900 School district: Penn-Trafford Agency: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices 724-327-0444 thepreferredrealty.com Blackthorne Estates Penn Township Single-family homes Priced from: $340,000 School district: Penn Trafford Agency: Ryan Homes 724-216-5737 ryanhomes.com Cedar Hills Rostraver Township Condominiums and villas Priced from: $217,500 School district: Belle Vernon Area Agency: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices 724-929-7228 thepreferredrealty.com Cherry Knoll Delmont Single-family homes Priced from: $225.000 School district: Greensburg Salem Agency: ReMax Realty 412-856-2000 rasnoznik.net Cherry Wood Estates Mt. Pleasant Township Custom single-family homes Priced from: $225,000 School district: Mount Pleasant Agency: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices 724-838-3660 thepreferredrealty.com Everview Estates Ligonier Township Single-family homes Priced from: $299,900 School district: Ligonier Valley Angency: Howard Hanna Real Estate Services 724-832-2300

Foxtail Court at Rolling Ridge Murrysville Single-family homes Priced from: $600,000 School district: Franklin Regional Agency: Howard Hanna Real Estate Services 724-327-5161 howardhanna.com Glenn Aire Unity Township Custom single-family homes Priced from: $350,000 School district: Greater Latrobe Agency: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices 724-838-3660 thepreferredrealty.com Greenfield Estates Unity Township Custom single-family homes Priced from: $250,000 School district: Greater Latrobe Agency: Scalise Real Estate 724-539-3525 Hampton Heights (Formerly Carradam Golf Course) North Huntingdon Township One acre homesites Priced from: $400,000 School district: Norwin Agency: RWS Custom Homes 724-861-0571 rwscustomhomes.com Harrington Way at Wendover Hempfield Township Single-family homes Priced from: $249,900 School district: Hempfield Area Agency: Northwood Realty 724-327-5600 northwood.com Hawk Valley Allegheny Township Townhomes Priced from: $120,000 School district: Kiski Area Agency: Maronda Homes, Inc 724-895-3876 www.marondahomes.com Legacy at Sunset Pointe Canonsburg Single-family-homes Coming soon Laurel View Place Derry Township Single-family lots Priced from: $49,900 School district: Derry Area Agency: Northwood Realty Services 724-537-0110 northwood.com Lincoln Hills North Huntington Township Single-family homes, townhomes and grand villas Priced from: mid-$300,000 Single-family, $239,900 townhomes and $289,900 grand villas School district: Norwin Agency: RWS Custom Homes 724-861-0571 rwscustomhomes.com

Lindwood Crest Hempfield Township Patio homes Priced from: $189,900 School district: Hempfield Area Agency: Howard Hanna Real Estate Services 724-832-2300 howardhanna.com Mallard Landing Murrysville Single-family homes Priced from: $470,000 School district: Franklin Regional Agency: Howard Hanna Real Estate Services 724-327-5161 howardhanna.com Meadowlane Farm Estates Hempfield Township Single-family homes Priced from: $230,000 School district: Hempfield Area Agency: Ryan Homes 724-216-5737 ryanhomes.com Meadowlane Heights Hempfield Township Single-family homes Priced from: $210,000â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s School district: Hempfield Area Agency: S & A Realty 1-855-SAHOME1 sahomebuilder.com Northpointe Hempfield Township Custom single-family homes Priced from: $270,000 School district: Hempfield Area Agency: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices 724-838-3660 thepreferredrealty.com Palmer Place Unity Township Custom single-family Priced from: $650,000 School district: Greater Latrobe Agency: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices 724-838-3660 thepreferredrealty.com Renaissance Heights Rostraver Township Single-family homes Priced from: low $200,000 School district: Belle Vernon Area Agency: Maronda Homes, Inc 724-872-7017 www.marondahomes.com Rivendell Penn Township Single-family homes Priced from: $300,000 School district: Penn-Trafford Agency: S & A Realty 1-855-SAHOME1 sahomebuilder.com Rolling Hill Farm Rostraver Township Single-family homes Priced from: $200,000 School district: Belle Vernon Area Agency: S & A Realty 1-855-SAHOME1 sahomebuilder.com

www.greaterpittsburghnewhome.com

WESTMORELAND COUNTY

Piatt Estates Chartiers Township Single-family homes Priced from: $650,000 School district: Chartiers/ Houston Agency: Howard Hanna Real Estae Services 724-222-6040 howardhanna.com

WESTMORELAND COUNTY

WASHINGTON COUNTY

Old Trail Peters Township Single-family homes Priced from: $440,000 School district: Peters Township Agency: Heartland Homes 724-949-0079 HeartlandLuxuryHomes.com

Serenity Pointe Murrysville Single-family homes Priced from: $500,000 School district: Franklin Regional Agency: Howard Hanna Real Estate Services 724-417-1772 howardhanna.com

The Villas of Willow Estates North Huntington Townhomes and grand villas Priced from: $239,900 and $289,900 School district: Norwin Agency: RWS Custom Homes 724-861-0571 rwscustomhomes.com

Siena Ridge Murrysville Single-family homes Priced from : $500,000 School district: Franklin Regional Agency: Howard Hanna Real Estate Services 724-327-5161 howardhanna.com

Weatherton Farm Estates Unity Township Single-family haomes Priced from: $250,000 School district: Greater Latrobe Agency: ReMax 412-856-2000 rasnoznik.net

Summerhill Murrysville Patio townhomes, stacked flats School district: Franklin Regional Priced from: $249,900 Agency: Howard Hanna Real Estate Services 724-327-5161 howardhanna.com

WESTMORELAND COUNTY

Victoria Highlands Unity Township Single-family homes Priced from: $290,000 School district: Latrobe Agency: Bob Shuster Realty 724-864-8884 rwscustomhomes.com The Village at Palmer Place Unity Township Custom villas Priced from: $349,000 School district: Greater Latrobe Agency: Howard Hanna Real Estate Services 724-832-2300 howardhanna.com The Village at Stonegate Penn Township Villas Priced from: $324,900 School district: Penn-Trafford Agency: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices 724-838-3660 or 724-327-0444 thepreferredrealty.com Villages at Totteridge Greensburg Villas and manor homes Priced from: Villas, $349,000 and manors, $259,000 School district: Greensburg/Salem Agency: Howard Hanna Real Estate Services 724-327-5161 howardhanna.com The Villas at Grayhawk Unity Township Villa style condominiums Priced from: $219,850 School district: Greater Latrobe Agency: Cedar Ridge Realty 724-832-3501 thevillasatgrayhawk.com

48 GREATER PITTSBURGHâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S NEW HOME

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Westmoreland Community Action Jeannette Single-family homes Priced from: $75,000 School district: Jeannette City Agency: Northwood Realty 724-838-9643 northwood.com Westmoreland Community Action Reed Avenue Jeannette Single-family homes Priced from: $63,000 School district: Jeannette City Agency: Northwood Realty 724-838-9643 northwood.com Westmoreland Human Opportunities Monessan Single-family homes Priced from: $70,000 School district: Monessen Agency: Northwood Realty 724-838-9643 northwood.com Westwind Estates Hempfield Township Single-family homes Priced from: $250,000 School district: Hempfield Area Agency: Ryan Homes 724-216-5737 ryanhomes.com Willow Estates North Huntington Single-family homes Priced from: $280,000 School district: Norwin Agency: S & A Realty 1-855-SAHOME1 sahomebuilder.com The Woods of Brandywine Penn Township Single-family homes Coming soon School district: Penn Trafford Agency: Ryan Homes 412-793-4797 ryanhomes.com Yok Wood Ridge Unity Township Single-family homes Priced from: $190,000 School district: Greater Latrobe Agency: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices 724-838-3660 thepreferredrealty.com

Customize your kitchen. Perk up the patio. Home Equity Line of Credit

1.99

Fixed rate for 6 months

APR*

2.99

APR*

Prime-based rate after 6 months

Prime - 0.26% for the life of the line.

Dollar Bank makes sprucing up your home more affordable. So go ahead...Liven up the living room. Restore your roof. Shape up the siding. To apply, visit any office or dollarbank.com. Or, call 1-800-242-BANK

Equal Housing Lender. Member FDIC. Copyright ÂŠ 2014, Dollar Bank. Federal Savings Bank. Rate shown is accurate as of 9/1/14, for line amounts from $50,000 to $400,000, subject to change without notice and is available only with any one of several qualifying checking accounts. Qualifying checking accounts are subject to certain terms and conditions that may change after account opening. Rate is fixed for the 6-month introductory period. Afterward, rate is variable based on Prime and is for maximum ratios of 80% loan-to-value and 40% debt-to income. The maximum APR is equal to the initial rate plus 10.00%. Available for first lien and second position and 1-4 family owneroccupied property only. Property insurance is required. An appraisal may be required. If required, the appraisal fee will range from $75-$400. Other closing costs will range from $270 to $430. The $50 annual fee will be waived in the first year. Subject to Dollar Bank underwriting guidelines. HEL535_14

Expect more

from your builder!

Paragon Homes has been building custom homes designed around our clients for nearly 30 years. We utilize a client friendly process that provides an easy custom building experience that is uncomplicated and cost effective. With lots available all across Western PA, in our communities or on your site, you should see what Paragon can do for you!

Call Paragon Homes Today! 412.787.8807 Or visit us at www.VisitParagonHomes.com www.facebook.com/ParagonHomesPittsburgh 5949 Steubenville Pike, Robinson Twp., PA 15136