Sunday, August 14, 2011

At Home in Regent Square

Mature trees and quiet brick-paved streets are hallmarks of the East End neighborhood of Regent Square, located along both sides of Braddock Avenue between the Parkway East and Forbes Avenue.  Scenic 550-acre Frick Park borders the western edge, offering a plethora of recreational opportunities and giving a unique character to the neighborhood.  Homes with porches close to the tree-lined sidewalks help to promote a sense of community and the feeling of living in a village.

An active community association contributes to the appeal of the neighborhood.  The Regent Square Civic Association sponsors many events and offers both a newsletter and a website, encouraging and supporting participation in community life.   Community events include an Annual House Tour, a marathon Run Around the Square, Easter egg hunts, Halloween parties, a Holiday Lighting Contest, the Regent Square Flea Market and numerous civic and social events and seminars.

A clever mural depicting parts of Regent Square and Frick Park, a project of the Civic Association, is a highlight in the heart of the business district, a unique shopping area comprised mostly of family and independently owned businesses. A surprising variety of restaurants, goods and services are offered in this small but vibrant shopping community.

Built from 1830 through the early part of the 20th century, Regent Square’s homes are a mixture of architectural styles, ranging from smaller middle class homes to large homes built for 19th century businessmen and their families.  Current residents range from university students and singles to professionals and retirees.  Access to the Parkway and public transportation allow for an easy commute to downtown Pittsburgh, the cultural district and the universities and hospitals of Oakland.

901 South Braddock is a stately home located in the heart of Regent Square, close to shops and transportation.  Like many of the areas larger homes, it’s been converted to a duplex, but retains its original charm, including stained glass in the entry and lovely woodwork throughout.  Ideal for an owner who wishes to live in one apartment and rent the other, it could also be easily reconverted to a fabulous single family home.  Just steps from the greenery of Frick Park, this home also has its own beautiful back and front yards.  To learn more, contact Smadar Blumenthal at 412-414-5479.

A family friendly neighborhood, convenient location, active business district and access to all that Frick Park has to offer, Regent Square offers something for everyone.  Check it out today!


RE/MAX Realty Brokers

Friday, August 12, 2011

BikeFest 2011

Friday, August 12 through Sunday, August 21

Sponsored by Bike Pittsburgh, BikeFest is an annual 10-day celebration of bicycling in the city of Pittsburgh.  Almost 70 bike-themed events have been organized by various businesses, individuals and organizations, showcasing the beauty and wonder of our area.  Most events are free or very affordable.  Casual rider or bike enthusiast, BikeFest has an event for you!

Visit the Bike Pittsburgh website for a complete online calendar of events, including a downloadable, printable calendar for planning your week.

Thursday, August 11, 2011

New on the Market

A sampling of the properties our agents have listed in the past few weeks:

Bigelow Heights
Wonderfully updated home close to everything.   New front porch and step, French doors leading from dining room to a new patio.
Contact:  Nancy Wright  412-508-0040  nancywright@remax.net






Mt. Oliver
Totally redone with bright open floor plan, gleaming hardwood floors, new kitchen and new bath.  Minutes to South Side and close to downtown, universities and hospitals.
Contact:  Esther Jarrett  412-889-8684  ekjarrett@yahoo.com




Squirrel Hill
Spacious 5 bedroom townhome, just steps from Schenley Park and close to universities, hospitals and shopping.  High ceilings, updated baths, hardwood floors, and much more.
Contact:  Kitty Onufer  412-480-3351  konufer@comcast.net




Oakland
2 bedroom, 2 bath condo in University Square, convenient to everything in Oakland.
Contact:  Jill Portland  412-521-1000  jillportland@remax.net






Lovely one bedroom, one bath condo unit in Park Plaza.  Original hardwood floors, secure and well-maintained building.
Contact:  Jill Portland  412-521-1000  jillportland@remax.net





Monday, August 1, 2011

August Neighborhood Festivals

August offers many opportunities to explore the diverse heritage, food and character of Pittsburgh’s neighborhoods at local community festivals.  Come out to see what our neighborhoods have to offer!

For more information, call 412-422-6426 or visit the City of Pittsburgh’s Community Festival Website.






August 1
Lincoln Place
Monday 6–8:30 p.m.
5800 Buttermilk Hollow Road parking lot

August 2
Hill District
Tuesday 6 p.m.–9 p.m.
Dinwiddie Street

August 2
California-Kirkbride
Tuesday 4-8:30 p.m.
1800 Block of Brighton Place

August 6
Banksville
Saturday 2-9 p.m.
Banksville Park

August 12
Bedford Dwellings
Friday 12-4 p.m.
Somers Drive parking lot

August 13
Brookline
Saturday 11 a.m.–2 p.m.
Brookline Recreation Center

August 19
Homewood North
Friday 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
Ferris Court

August 20
Carrick
Saturday 12-6 p.m.
Phillips Park

August 20
East Carnegie
Saturday 12–7 p.m.
East Carnegie Parklet

August 26
Northview Heights
Friday 11 a.m.–7 p.m.
Northview Heights Playground

August 27
Uptown
Saturday 1–5 p.m.
Gist Street

August 28
Garfield
Sunday 1–7 p.m.
St. Lawrence O’Toole Gym

RE/MAX Realty Brokers

Wednesday, July 27, 2011

Island Life

Island living in the heart of Pittsburgh? 

As urban living goes, Washington’s Landing is something truly unique.  This 42-acre island in the Allegheny River, less than 2 miles from downtown Pittsburgh, is one of our area’s premier riverfront developments.  Waterfront housing, public parks, trails and recreational facilities share space with commercial buildings, a full-service marina and restaurant, the Three Rivers Rowing Association Boathouse and the Pittsburgh headquarters of the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy.  All this plus spectacular views of the river and Pittsburgh skyline.

The refurbished 31st Street Bridge provides a beautiful entrance to the island, offering easy access to downtown Pittsburgh. Riverfront trails, attractive streets and well-defined access points to the river encourage pedestrian traffic. A rehabilitated railroad bridge links the island trails to the area’s ever expanding bike and pedestrian trail system.

The spacious end unit townhome at 21 Overlook Court is a perfect place to enjoy all that Washington’s Landing has to offer.  Only steps from the marina restaurant, this beautifully maintained 3 bedroom 3 ½ bath home is virtually carefree.  Although only 14 years old, it’s been newly updated with fresh paint, carpet and ceramic floors, new kitchen countertops, lighting and stainless appliances.  No weekends spent laboring in the yard, as all exterior maintenance is taken care of by the homeowners association, including not just landscaping, but roofs, porches, decks and snow removal right up to the front door.

Inside there’s a spacious open kitchen and breakfast room with floor to ceiling windows.  French doors in the living room open to a rear deck with a view of the river.  Second floor bedrooms have gigantic walk in closets and a sumptuous master bath with an oversized double-headed steam shower and granite vanity.  Encompassing the entire third floor is a spectacular bedroom suite with a private bath, sitting area and vaulted ceiling.  Topping it all off, a spiral staircase leads to the cupola and fabulous views of the river and the Pittsburgh skyline. 

It’s said that George Washington slept on the island after his raft capsized while crossing the river.  This little island has come a long way since then.  Extraordinary views, proximity to workplaces and the amenities of the city and an easy lifestyle with an emphasis on recreation have made Washington’s Landing a premier residential community.




Take a virtual tour to see everything this great home has to offer.

Friday, July 15, 2011

2011 Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix


2011 marks the 29th consecutive year the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix has been run at Pittsburgh’s beautiful Schenley Park.  Held July 15 - 24th, the Vintage Grand Prix is America’s largest vintage race and the only one run on city streets. The week-long events benefit charity as well as celebrating vintage cars. Funds raised will go towards programs for autistic and developmentally disabled individuals in the greater Pittsburgh area through the Autism Society of Pittsburgh and Allegheny Valley School.

The races at Schenley Park mark the end of a 10-day Race Week.  While many events have admission fees for participants, most of the events listed below are FREE to spectators, or request only a small donation.

Friday, July 15
Test & Tune at BeaveRun
Drivers tune their racers and practice on the BeaveRun MotorSports Complex. Free to the viewing public.

Saturday & Sunday, July 16-17, 9 am-5 pm
Historic Races at BeaveRun
Racing and related activities at BeaveRun MotorSports Complex in Beaver Falls, PA.
$15 per day or $25 for the weekend, kids under 12 are free. Proceeds benefit charity.

Monday, July 18, 5-9 pm
Invitational Car Show on Walnut Street
Rare, classic and exotic cars along Walnut Street in Shadyside.  Free to spectators.

Tuesday, July 19, 5-9 pm
Waterfront Car Cruise
Over 500 cars on display at the Waterfront in Homestead. $5 donation is requested.

Wednesday, July 20, 10:30 am-2pm
Downtown Race Car Parade & Display
50 cars will motor from the Spaghetti Warehouse in the Strip District through downtown Pittsburgh on their way to displays at the U.S. Steel Tower, PPG Place and Market Square.

Wednesday, July 20, 6-9 pm
Grand Prix Tune-Up at Bossa Nova
Benefit happy hour at Bossa Nova on 7th Street downtown. Live entertainment and silent auction.
$35 per person at the door includes tapas and two complimentary cocktails.

Saturday & Sunday, July 23-24
International Car Shows & British Car Day
Saturday, 11 am-4 pm, Sunday 9:30am-4pm
Over 2,000 classic, antique, and exotic vehicles at theSchenley Park golf course.
Vintage Race Practice and Qualifying Heats
Saturday, 9 am-5pm, Sunday 8:15-10:15am
150 vintage racers will compete o to quality for Sunday's featured races.
Races at Schenley Park
Sunday, noon-5pm
The big event ending the week’s festivities!

Check the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix Website for more information on all events and directions.

RE/MAX Realty Brokers

Monday, July 11, 2011

Kayaking and Art on the North Side

Kayak for free on Lake Elizabeth every Thursdays and Friday with Kayak Pittsburgh.   Located in Allegheny Commons on Pittsburgh’s North Side this shallow lake - only 3 feet deep - is the perfect safe place for beginners, children and hesitant swimmers to learn the art of kayaking.  Glide along the water and enjoy great views of downtown Pittsburgh in a lovely park setting.
Kayaks are available Thursday and Friday from 4 pm until dusk, free from now through Labor Day.. Boats are also available from 10 am to dusk on Saturday and Sunday for $5 per boat.

Head out on a Thursday and you can also enjoy free hand-on art activities from 4 to 7 pm.  For more information call 412-231-3169 or visit The Mattress Factory website.

Lake Elizabeth is located inside the Allegheny Commons across the street from the National Aviary on the North Side. Parking is available around the Allegheny Commons on W North Avenue and Arch Street.  Check out Kayak Pittsburgh for more information.