The Quirks of Buying a Home in Pittsburgh That Outsiders Never See Coming
Thinking about buying a home in Pittsburgh as a first-time buyer? You’ve probably heard about the bridges, the Steelers, and the pierogies. But once you start house hunting here, you’ll quickly realize that Pittsburgh real estate comes with some unique surprises. If you’re relocating, consider this your local’s guide to the quirks that make our market unlike anywhere else.
1. The City Steps That Double as Streets
Pittsburgh is famously known as “The City of Bridges,” but it’s also the city of over 700 public staircases, commonly called the Pittsburgh city steps. These unique stairways are woven into the fabric of the city’s hilly landscape and serve a crucial role in daily life, transportation, and neighborhood connectivity. We’ve personally tested… or rather, been tested by these steps. Video proof can be found on Instagram.
If you’re considering buying a house in Pittsburgh neighborhoods with city steps you might be surprised to learn that those steps are considered actual streets. In hilly areas like Fineview and South Side Slopes, it’s not uncommon for your “street” to be a 100-step climb. While these views are incredible, make sure you’re ready for a home where groceries and moving boxes come with a workout.
2. Steep Driveways (and Even Steeper Learning Curves)
Pittsburgh is a hilly place. As a result, you end up with things like public steps. And other things, like incredibly steep streets.
A home with a driveway is practically a given for most buyers, but how well did you practice the 100 foot backup in driving school? When shopping for a Pittsburgh home with a driveway, be prepared for a slope that might make you wish you drove a stick shift. Many homes built on hills have long, narrow, or steep driveways. Need proof? Check out this video of us struggling to walk up the steepest hill in Pittsburgh (and the country).
3. Century-Old Wiring and Charming Quirks
A big part of buying an older home in Pittsburgh is falling in love with the history…and learning to work around it. Pittsburgh has some of the oldest homes in the nation. That means many homes here were built before modern wiring and plumbing standards.
It’s not a buyer beware situation, but as a buyer, you should be aware. During your home inspection, make sure to budget for upgrades around knob-and-tube wiring or older plumbing that can come with historic houses. These details often surprise first-time buyers relocating to Pittsburgh who are used to newer construction.
4. Winter Parking Etiquette
Ask any local about buying a home in Pittsburgh in winter and they’ll mention the unofficial “parking chair” system. After a big snowstorm, Pittsburghers often dig out a spot and claim it with a folding chair or traffic cone. This lets neighbors know that someone has already shoveled out that spot and claims it temporarily. It’s not a law, but it is a deeply ingrained custom that surprises many newcomers. Don’t run afoul of your neighbors by taking their spot!
5. Hills, Bridges, and Appraisers
Another quirk of Pittsburgh neighborhoods is that two streets a half-mile apart can feel like totally different worlds. With rivers, tunnels, and hills, commute times and neighborhood accessibility can influence pricing. Even appraisers sometimes have to think twice about how terrain affects value. If you’re relocating, work with an agent who truly understands how Pittsburgh hills affect home prices.
Why Local Expertise Matters
If you’re relocating to Pittsburgh and buying your first home, it’s these quirks—city steps, steep driveways, old wiring, snow parking etiquette, and hills—that make the city so lovable. But if you’re new to the area, local knowledge is invaluable. An experienced agent can help you identify properties that fit your lifestyle and avoid surprises after closing.
Thinking About Moving to Pittsburgh?
Whether you’re drawn by the job market, the neighborhoods, or just our pierogies, buying a home in Pittsburgh as an out-of-state buyer is easier with the right team on your side. Our local expertise will guide you through the process so your first Pittsburgh home is full of charm, not unexpected challenges. Contact us today and let’s find your dream home!
