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Pittsburgh North, PA March 2020

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MARCH 2020

LifestylePubs.com/PittsburghNorth

LAUREN LEVANT INTERIOR SHOWCASES DESIGN IDEAS FOR SPRING SEE THE CUSTOM-BUILT HOME YOU’LL WANT TO MOVE INTO ASAP! SEARCHING FOR A NEW HOUSE? AWARD-WINNING REAL ESTATE AGENT ZITA BILLMANN TELLS US WHAT BUYERS ARE LOOKING FOR! CHECK OUT OUR EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH GEORGE HACKETT, PRESIDENT OF COLDWELL BANKER, PITTSBURGH


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LIFESTYLE LETTER

MARCH 2020 PUBLISHER

Kimberly Phillips | kimberly.phillips@lifestylepubs.com EDITORIAL COORDINATORS

There’s No Place Like Home THE BEST THING ABOUT YOUR HOME IS IT’S THE ONLY ONE EXACTLY LIKE IT. Sure, your neighbors’ homes may have a similar style or paint color. But the way you decorate each room and the memories you create make it uniquely yours.

Jason Solak | jason.solak@lifestylepubs.com Matthew Hacke | matthew.hacke@lifestylepubs.com ACCOUNT MANAGER

Craig Blanchard | craig.blanchard@lifestylepubs.com AD DESIGNER

Evan Deuvall LAYOUT DESIGNER

Jayme Emery

Maybe you’re in the market for a new home and are ready to build new memories. We have some fantastic real estate agents to recommend to you, plus beautiful

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Matt Hacke, Jason Solak

interior designs to give you some inspiration for your renovations. If you love your current home and want to do some small things for a little refresh, this issue includes tips for spring cleaning and getting rid of the old to welcome some new. Happy March, Pittsburgh North!

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

Kimberly Phillips, Publisher

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MASSACHUSETTS | MICHIGAN MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA | NEVADA | NEW JERSEY | NEW YORK NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON | PENNSYLVANIA SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

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LifestylePubs.com/PittsburghNorth

Proverbs 3:5-6 Pittsburgh North Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Pittsburgh North areas’ most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial

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Pittsburgh North Lifestyle | March 2020

contributors. Information in Pittsburgh North Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.


212 M ingo Road

MARSHALL TOWNSHIP | 6 BEDS, 5 FULL & 2 HALF BATHS

SERENE EQUESTRIAN ESTATE COMPLETE WITH STALL BARN & RIDING RINK | $2,650,000

108 Carriage H ill Drive ADAMS TOWNSHIP | 4 BEDS, 4 FULL & 2 HALF BATHS MAJESTIC ESTATE ON 3 ACRES WITH PRIVATE LAKE | $1,499,900

Emily Wilhelm REAL ESTATE P ROFESSIONAL

412.874.5368 (M) ewilhelm@piattsir.com

Artfully uniting extraordinary homes with extraordinary people.®

PIATT SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY 100 FOWLER ROAD, SUITE 30 | WARRENDALE, PA 15086 | 724.765.7000 (O) PIATTSIR.COM | INFO@PIATTSIR.COM Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated.


INSIDE THE ISSUE MARCH 2020

FEATURES 12 Immaculate Remodel This custom-built home is the perfect family property.

18 Farmhouse Equestrian Chic Spice up your home this Spring with inspiration from this stunning renovation from Lauren Levant Interior

26 Pittsburgh North Lifestyle Profile: George Hackett, President of Coldwell Banker, Pittsburgh

30 What Home Buyers Want Just in time for spring, real estate

12 30

agent Zita Billmann gives us insight into what home buyers are looking for

18

26

DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

8

Good Times

10

Around Town

12

Open House

18

Inspired By

22 Food & Wine 26 Locally Owned 30 Renovate & Refine 34 Lifestyle Calendar


For Over 40 Years!

CHRIS PHIL DWIGHT MORROW BOURQUE MORROW PRESIDENT

FORMER PITTSBURGH PENGUINS’ BACK TO BACK CHAMPION

FOUNDER

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W W W . U LT I M AT E G R A N I T E . C O M


GOOD TIMES

Rue Boutique Open House – 3 Year Anniversary On November 30, Rue Boutique celebrated their 3 Year Anniversary. Guests enjoyed raffles, snacks, drinks, and special gifts. There was also an opportunity to win a closet cleanse and styling consultation with owner Ayellet Rubinstein. A portion of all sales were donated to HEARTH, a group focused on affordable housing for female-headed households. Rue Boutique, 730 Providence Boulevard, RueBoutique.com.

for

Him & Her

Cherish the old. Embrace the new. 730 Providence Blvd, Pittsburgh, PA 15237 (412) 635-9900 rueboutique.com

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Pittsburgh North Lifestyle | March 2020


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AROUND TOWN

LA ROCHE UNIVERSITY OPENS RENOVATED PALUMBO SCIENCE CENTER La Roche University, a private liberal arts university in the North HIlls that offers more than 60 programs of study, recently opened the renovated center. Featuring classrooms, state-of-the-art laboratories, and common areas, the center will support the growing demand for STEM learning. The multimillion-dollar renovation is an example of La Roche University’s commitment to expand in the areas of health care, technology, and science programming. The President of La Roche University, Sister Candace Introcaso, said “It is in these spaces that the human element, our students, our faculty and others will experience an education that has the potential to change the world in which we live. The reactions hold potential and the engagement—a hope for the future.” LaRoche.edu

THE ANNUAL DUQUESNE LIGHT HOME & GARDEN SHOW RETURNS

NEW KENNYWOOD ATTRACTION HAS BEEN NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED Kennywood’s Steelers Country, which opened last year and features the new Steel Curtain coaster, was named one of the top 10 USA Today 10Best New Amusement Attractions. The Steel

March is our issue focused on homes and

Curtain coaster itself, which reaches speeds of 76

this month also marks the return of the annual

mph and has nine inversions, has already been rec-

Home & Garden Show, now in its 37th year, at

ognized by receiving the The Golden Ticket Award

the David L. Lawrence Convention Center in

for Best New Roller Coaster in 2019. Kennywood

Downtown Pittsburgh. This year the show, which

Park and the Pittsburgh Steelers collaborated on

spans 10 days, will present more than 1600 exhib-

the project last year.

its. Hundreds of thousands of homeowners are expected to attend the event, which is the largest home event in the region. This year the event will take place March 6-15. Learn more and buy tickets on line at PghHome.com.

SLIPPERY ROCK UNIVERSITY: TOP COLLEGE FOR STUDENTS ON AUTISM SPECTRUM Named one of the country’s 30 best small colleges or universities for students on the autism spectrum by appliedbehavioranalysisprograms. com, Slippery Rock University, located in Butler County, supports students with the disorder in many ways. Providing one-on-one coaching and

10

group meetings to help students perform executive

We are always accepting submissions for announce-

functions and develop social skills are a couple of

ments you’d like to see included in our Around Town

the factors that led to this recognition. Read more

section. Submissions are accepted via the Contact

about the programs at SRU.edu.

Us tab at LifestylePubs.com/PittsburghNorth.

Pittsburgh North Lifestyle | March 2020


Your Home Loan Team. Local. Reliable. Experienced. We have the mortgage products to fit your personal situation. Contact us today to learn how we may be able to get you into the home of your dreams. Amy is on top of everything for her clients, has excellent communication and definitely goes above and beyond for everyone. She knows her business, and does a great job from preapproval to closing.

I have worked with Finance of America - Wexford multiple times. Each time has been extremely easy. They have saved me significantly over the years in both buying and refinancing multiple homes. Would highly recommend.

“I am a returning customer due to the customer service, excellent mortgage rates, and ease of closing our loan. The entire loan process was easy and smooth.”

Donna, Agent

Michael, Client

Craig, Client

Meet your Finance of America Mortgage Wexford Team: Amy Helfferich

Joe Peck

Branch Manager | NMLS-143409

Senior Mortgage Advisor | NMLS-1084538

c: (412) 327-7899

29 years in the mortgage industry

c: (724) 316-4580

11 years in the mortgage industry

Michael Coco

Christine White

Account Manager | NMLS-1831512

Processor

c: (412) 580-6789

25 years in the mortgage industry

o: (724) 719-3331 10 years in the mortgage industry

Wexford Branch | 3000 Stonewood Drive, Suite 315 | Wexford, PA 15090 | Office: (724) 719-3330 ©2020 Finance of America Mortgage LLC is licensed nationwide |

| NMLS ID #1071 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org) | 300 Welsh Road, Building 5, Horsham, PA 19044 | (800) 355-5626


OPEN HOUSE

immaculate

remodel

THIS CUSTOM-BUILT HOME IS THE PERFECT FAMILY PROPERTY.

ARTICLE MATT HACKE

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Pittsburgh North Lifestyle | March 2020


234 WHETHERBURN DRIVE PINE TWP., PA 15090 $899,000 Located in the desirable and award-winning Pine Richland school district, this four bedroom, four-and-a-half-bathroom home is situated in the prestigious North Park Manor development. This custom built home is filled with updates, as you’ll soon see as you step through the front door and into the 2-story entry, featuring dual staircases newly updated with wrought iron balusters.

CONTINUED >

March 2020 | Pittsburgh North Lifestyle

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OPEN HOUSE (CONTINUED)

Follow the beautiful, inlaid hardwood floors as you tour

Lastly, make sure to check out the backyard. A low

the home. The spacious gourmet chef’s kitchen includes

maintenance Trex deck was recently added, where you’ll

a Bosch dishwasher, double convection oven, 6-burner

also find a brand new saltwater hot tub.

Viking gas cooktop and grill, and a Samsung refrigerator.

Minutes from shopping, dining, and North Park, this

You’ll also find a built-in buffet in the Butler’s pantry! Next,

home is tucked away in a great location. Needless to say,

move into the stunning, 2-story family room, with warm

it truly is the perfect family home.

stone accents and custom built-ins. The master bedroom suite features its own sitting area, as well a newly updated master bath with a large walk-in shower. His and her walk-in closets will make life easy and organized! Go downstairs to the walkout, lower level game room, which includes a fireplace, storage room, and full-bath. This truly is the perfect entertaining spot. 14

Pittsburgh North Lifestyle | March 2020

For more information, contact Zita Billmann of Coldwell Banker at 412.366.1600 or visit zitabillmann.com


March 2020 | Pittsburgh North Lifestyle

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T H E #1 A G E NT I N W E S T E R N P E N N S Y LVA N I A F O R 2019

UND

TI RAC ONT ER C

N1

! DAY

673 E Village Green Boulevard Adams Township - $265,000

ER UND

CO N

T IN RAC ONT C R E UND

S! OUR 48 H

234 Whetherburn Drive Pine Township - $899,000

464 Monmouth Drive, Cranberry Township

1514 Fox Chase Drive, Franklin Park - $795,000

7021 Oak Park Drive, Pine Towship - $694,800

CT TRA

213 Whetherburn Drive, Pine Township - $798,900


T H A N K YO U F O R A G R E AT 2019 82 H O M E S - O V E R $43 M I L L I O N S O L D I N 2019

“My goal is to be your Realtor for life.” ZITA BILLMANN COLDWELL BANKER REAL ESTATE SERVICES

9600 Perry Highway, Suite 200, Pittsburgh, PA 15237 412.366.1600 412.310.7812 ZitaBillmann.com ZitaBillmann@gmail.com Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logo are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Operated by a subsidiary of NRT LLC.


INSPIRED BY

The Great Room

ARTICLE LAUREN LEVANT AND MATT HACKE PHOTOGRAPHY DAVE BRYCE PHOTOGRAPHY

FARMHOUSE EQUESTRIAN CHIC SPICE UP YOUR HOME THIS SPRING WITH INSPIRATION FROM THIS STUNNING RENOVATION FROM LAUREN LEVANT INTERIOR

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Pittsburgh North Lifestyle | March 2020

The Living Room


SET ON MULTIPLE ACRES OF PRIVATE FARMLAND, THIS HOME RENOVATION WAS THE PERFECT OPPORTUNITY FOR LAUREN LEVANT OF LAUREN LEVANT INTERIOR TO CREATE A SPACE THAT COMBINED RUSTIC AND SLEEK ELEMENTS: "WHEN I DESIGN IN ANY STYLE, I ENJOY MIXING TOGETHER ECLECTIC PIECES. But, particularly in this rustic equestrian project, the goal was to create a warm and timeless blend of the old, the new, and the unexpected to create a truly collected look,” Lauren says. Two areas of the home that were a focal point of the renovation were the living room and great room. The living room includes a custom leathered stone and iron coffee table made with legs in the shape of an equestrian tack, while antique stools mixed in with new upholstered couches and distressed leather wingback chairs help complement the rustic feel of the room. Occasional tables were mixed in shape and material to include polished mahogany wood, stamped iron, and burnished brass for a relaxed and eclectic look. Lastly, a polished wood game table nested between carved chairs in a Ralph Lauren modern embroidery created a cozy spot for conversation, while a brass telescope by the windows tempts one to take in the sweeping views of the property. Moving into the great room, the stunning stonework and soaring beams are crowned with a dramatic, iron chandelier. "In this space, our clients gave us some amazing pieces to work from right out of the gate, and with the bones of this room, it was hard to go wrong,” says Lauren. Therefore, We chose to be understated with the furnishings, using neutral linens and leathers to balance the rich tones and textures we were working with.”

CONTINUED >

March 2020 | Pittsburgh North Lifestyle

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INSPIRED BY (CONTINUED)

The Living Room

The great room also features plush, overstuffed downy sofas in classic clean tones, which are offset by the clients own antique rug with its rich, deep colors. Carved armchairs with flowing lines flank the entry and rustic wood provides a relaxed place for games and drinks. “The room is large enough for at least two conversation areas, so we grouped leather chairs by the windows to capitalize on the views, while reserving the largest area to circle the magnificent fireplace,” Lauren says. “When it's time for a good movie, the TV rises from the sideboard on a powered lift - and disappears again when not in use." Ultimately, this warm and inviting renovation showcases how utilizing the elements already in the home can be spiced up with a little unexpected charm. With a space like this, every way you turn, it begs the question, ‘Where did you find this – I love it!’ Lauren Levant Interior 5888 Ellsworth Ave., Shadyside 412.226.5566, LaurenLevant.com The Great Room 20

Pittsburgh North Lifestyle | March 2020


D i g i ta l M a r k e t i n g MeDia & Publicity event Planning & ManageMent

Our team understands the importance of branding your company with a consistent & strategic message. We pride ourselves in developing customized strategies and events that exceed our clients’ expectations. When you partner with us, you acquire a team of dedicated, talented and experienced professionals with national coverage.

Our pOrtfOliO includes: • Digital Marketing Campaigns • Media Relations & Publicity • Crisis Communications • Ghost Writing for Blogs, Speeches, Podcasts & Publications • Corporate & Non-Profit Event Planning and Execution

412.657.3483 • Dickersoncreative.com March 2020 | Pittsburgh North Lifestyle

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FOOD & WINE ARTICLE HAYLEY HYER | PHOTOGRAPHY NICOLETTE MARTIN

check your groceries at the door

SPEND MORE TIME AT HOME + GET MEAL KITS DELIVERED FOR EASY COOKING AND HEALTHY LIVING

1

Choos in g a bra n d

choose your meals

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When you sign up for a meal subscription box,

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you get to decide if you want all of your food for

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the week delivered or just a couple of meals. You

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can pick the plan that is most compatible with

FAST + EASY

what you are looking for, and with many com-

COOKING

panies, you can also decide whether your boxes

Gobble

ship weekly, bi-weekly or monthly.

CUSTOMIZABLE

2

Imperfect Foods

delivery

Most food subscription boxes will allow you to choose a delivery day and time frame that works best for you. Your grocery items will be packaged as intuitively as possible, with any refrigerator items tucked in with ice packs. Bonus: You can reuse the insulation and ice packs in kids’ lunch boxes, on road trips or in your own lunches at work.

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Pittsburgh North Lifestyle | March 2020

TIP:

freezer items in specially insulated sacks and

Try out a few different boxes. You can pause your subscription for the first one while you try a second one. Just remember to cancel the accounts you don’t want anymore!


3

ingredients + Prep

Depending on what you order, you may need some of your own supplies. When you select your meals, think about what you will need to cook the food in and if any other kitchen utensils would be helpful. Have them ready to go so you don’t have to make any last-minute trips to the store, defeating the purpose of getting your box delivered! If the meals are foods you would enjoy reheated, you could do all of your cooking the day you get the box to meal prep for your week, or you can just store the ingredients to the other meals in your fridge and cook them throughout the week.

4

cooking

If you’re a little less-experienced in the kitchen, meal kits are great for learning! Read the instructions carefully before you get started so you don’t feel frazzled while the heat is up high, and take your time. If you are a more seasoned chef, feel free to take your own spin on the recipes and add some extra flavor or swap out ingredients to make it perfect for your palate.

l ea r n more on l i n e IMPERFECT FOODS imperfectfoods.com

PURPLE CARROT purplecarrot.com

SUN BASKET sunbasket.com

GOBBLE

gobble.com

5

let’s eat!

This is the really fun part! It’s time to start taste-testing. Make a note tab in your phone for tracking what you love and what isn’t your favorite. That way, when it’s time to select more meals, you know what you have tried and what you absolutely have to try again. Don’t forget to ask your family what was a hit and a miss. Who knows— maybe the kids love some of the Purple Carrot recipes and don’t even notice how many veggies they are eating!

March 2020 | Pittsburgh North Lifestyle

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Set Your Priorities!

Now is the Time to Plan Your Stress-free Future

Do you have a retirement strategy?

We’re not talking Medicare benefits or retirement accounts, but something much simpler – a single sheet of paper that may guarantee a stress-free future: Masonic Village’s Priority Waiting List. Many continuing care retirement communities have a waiting list, and Masonic Village’s is growing longer each day. Even if you’re considering a move years from now, join the list today so we’re ready when you are. This small step now can help you get the home of your choice in the future.

Call Us to Schedule a Personal Tour at 724-242-7253 Enjoy Life Your Way

and let us take care of the rest.

FOLLOW US

www.masonicvillages.org/mvs

1000 Masonic Dr., Sewickley, PA 15143 | www.masonicvillages.org | Open for Everyone.


DEDICATED TO REIMAGINING THE SPACE YOU CALL HOME. K IT C HE NS | B AT HS | C L OS E T S | OF F IC E S & L I B R A R I E S B AR S & WINE R OOM S | OUT DOOR KIT C HE N S & M O R E WWW. KB C P GH. C OM | 4 1 2 - 3 0 1 - 8 0 0 0


LOCALLY OWNED

Pittsburgh North L i fe s t y l e Profile:

GEORGE HACKETT, PRESIDENT OF COLDWELL BANKER, PITTSBURGH

ARTICLE CRAIG BLANCHARD

JUST BEFORE CHRISTMAS WE SPENT AN

26

A QUICK START

AFTERNOON WITH GEORGE HACKETT, LONG-

George grew up in Penn Hills, went to Clarion,

TIME PRESIDENT AND LEADER OF COLDWELL

where he met his wife Teddi, and then Duquesne

BANKER/PITTSBURGH. During the conversation

for his graduate work. Shortly after marrying in 1973

two things about George’s commitment and style

George recognized that his teaching and track coach

became apparent.

salary weren’t going to cut it. Teddi was teaching in

The first was the significance George puts on

the North Hills at the time but if she were to stop the

his dual roles as husband, father and grandfather,

ends would have trouble meeting. George adds: “I

and as Dutch uncle to his Coldwell Banker family.

wasn’t making enough money and I wasn’t particu-

George’s focus has always been on improving the

larly motivated; my wife Teddi was my motivation; I

lives and securing the futures of everyone in his

wanted to do well for her and so I starting looking

orbit—his immediate and workplace families.

for something else to do. Credit also has to go to

Our second observation was that George Hackett

my mother-in-law who knew someone in real estate

is a humble man. He is a leader who prefers to credit

who was doing well, and it was she who suggested I

most of his outsized success to others: his wife Teddi;

give it a try at least part time. Fortunately for every-

his first partner and mentor; Coldwell Banker; his

one I took her advice!”

management team and superb agents. A real commitment to others, and humility: good things, indeed.

Pittsburgh North Lifestyle | March 2020

In 1974, after six months of marriage, George started with Les Hosack Real Estate. In his second year of working part time for Hosack it was clear to


CONTINUED >

March 2020 | Pittsburgh North Lifestyle

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LOCALLY OWNED (CONTINUED)

everyone that it had been a good decision. He was making 5 times what he was making teaching and coaching, and the die was cast. Knowing a great opportunity when he saw it Hosack offered George a stake in the business, opened a second office in the North Hills, and proposed they grow the company together. In three short years George had married his college sweetheart, switched careers, parlayed his newfound drive into equity in a real estate company and a new office in the North Hills. THE MENTOR CHOOSES WISELY George is quick to point out that there was a certain kismet quality to his early success: a suggestion from his mother-in-law, meeting and connecting well with an appreciative (and smart) business owner-turned mentor. “I have to admit that at the start it was all about making more money but the relationship with Hosack went well and we were off and running. Les and I had a great relationship. He was older and more experienced, and he gave me a shot. He was someone I looked up to as a leader and mentor. It was a gift from God. I never even really knew anything about real estate, I just got into it, it suited me very well, I loved it and I still do.” Over the next 10 years George opened 8 more offices and in 1984 Coldwell Banker bought the company. George took over as President in ’86. When we asked George to sum up his early success he demurred, saying it’s sometimes hard to put your finger on exactly why something turned out the way it did, but he cited hard work, a sense of urgency, motivation to do well for his family, and someone to help him get started. He doesn’t think about the financial aspect for himself anymore. Now it’s more about trying to help his agents succeed. “I have wonderful relationships with all my people which is really nice. It's very much like an extended family to me. I’ve been gifted with something that I love which is sometimes hard to find. All this time I've been doing this every day and I still can't wait to get to work.” ACE REALTOR GEORGIE SMIGEL HAS THIS TO SAY ABOUT GEORGE AND HIS IMPACT: “Under George’s guidance, I’ve become one of Pittsburgh's top 3 realtors for the past 10 years. The great thing about George is that even though he's the president of this big company he really cares about people and their families, not just their business. Everyone is absolutely amazed by his accomplishments!”

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Pittsburgh North Lifestyle | March 2020

I HAVE WONDERFUL RELATIONSHIPS WITH ALL MY PEOPLE WHICH IS REALLY NICE. IT’S VERY MUCH LIKE AN EXTENDED FAMILY TO ME. I’VE BEEN GIFTED WITH SOMETHING THAT I LOVE WHICH IS SOMETIMES HARD TO FIND.”


Tanisha Lydic Tanisha Lydic, Realtor, sres

COLDWELL BANKER *Multi-Million Dollar Producer*

4960 Route 8, Allison Park, PA 15101 Office: 412.487.0500 Cell: 412.337.7198 tanisha.lydic@pittsburghmoves.com

hard so “youWorking don’t have to ”

“Everything I Touch Turns to SOLD ” “Tanisha kept all of her promises to me and I would use her talents again and again and again! She is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED by both myself and my husband!”

“We got an offer within a week and the house was sold in less than a month! I would highly recommend Ms Lydic. She is a great person to work with and she definitely gets the job done.”

LASONN R. | seller

DEBORAH D. | seller

“Turned a stressful situation into a pleasant experience!”

“She is the absolute best!”

GEE S. | buyer

JENNY & CHAZ P. | buyer

Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logo are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Operated by a subsidiary of NRT LLC.


RENOVATE & REFINE

what home buyers want

WHEN LOOKING FOR A HOME, THE ONE COMMONALITY BUYERS ARE SEEKING IN THE NORTH HILLS IS A ‘WOW’ FACTOR. “The cookie-cutter Mudrooms are great for extra storage space.

JUST IN TIME FOR SPRING, REAL ESTATE AGENT ZITA BILLMANN GIVES US INSIGHT INTO WHAT HOME BUYERS ARE LOOKING FOR ARTICLE EDITED BY MATTHEW HACKE 30

Pittsburgh North Lifestyle | March 2020

feel that was once popular decades ago is not popular among today's buyer. They are looking for something that conveys more of a "feeling" that might offer something a little different than their neighbors,” says Zita.


With today's busy lifestyles, buyers are seeking turnkey, move-in-ready properties. More and more buyers are willing to spend more money for what they want — but, if they are spending more, they want it ‘all,’ Zita continues. Buyers really would prefer not to have to do the work themselves or deal with hiring contractors to do the work — they would rather the work already be done and they are willing to pay for it. “The bottom line is that when a seller invests in their home and the work is done correctly, they will get a return on their investment,” says Zita. If selling is in the foreseeable future, and a homeowner is considering updating their home, Zita recommends they consider engaging the expertise of a realtor so the work being done will appeal to today's buyers and help ensure they get their money back on their investment.

The neutral color palette in the kitchen allows you to let other elements of the room shine.

here are a few features home buyers are looking for: › FLOORING Hardwood is a high expectation, especially throughout the entire first floor.

› KITCHENS White kitchens, grey kitchens, navy blue or even warm woods! These are all great choices depending on personal style and taste. Whatever the decor choices, the buyers want it to feel new and fresh. Soft-close cabinet drawers, back splashes, and high end stainless steel appliances are also all big attractions.

› OUTDOOR SPACE Outdoor living space with roof covered areas

Outdoor living space is key for entertaining come spring and summer.

are a big hit along with some type of usable yard for the family to play & entertain. OTHER FEATURES ON A HOME BUYERS WISH LIST: + Neutral color palette + Mudrooms + Butler Pantry + First Floor Master Suites + School District + Community Amenities + Easy Commute The gleaming hardwood floors brighten up the great room.

For more information, contact Zita Billmann of Coldwell Banker at 412.366.1600 or visit zitabillmann.com March 2020 | Pittsburgh North Lifestyle

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P U T YO U R C IT Y O N O U R M A P. Start a magazine & build a legacy. Life is short. Love what you do.

LifestylePubs.com/OwnIt

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Pittsburgh North Lifestyle | March 2020


MARCH

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

6

19

14TH ANNUAL FARM TO TABLE EXPO

CHAMPIONS FOR CHILDREN GALA

David L. Lawrence Convention Center

On March 19, The Homeless Children's

From March 6-15, this expo provides

Education Fund (HCEF) is hosting their

consumers with ten days of network-

annual Champions for Children gala.

ing and educational opportunities.

Community members are welcome

Seasonal cooking demonstrations,

to attend for a night of fine dining, live

gardening, 60+ food vendors, and

auction, networking, and to learn about

and Botanical Gardens

information about the nutritional

the mission of HCEF. All proceeds con-

From March 21-April 19, Phipps' sig-

value of food are also presented by

tribute towards educational programs,

nature flower displays will delight not

local experts.

scholarships, school supplies, tutoring,

only in beds below, but baskets and

FarmToTablePa.com/Conference

and mentorship for youth experiencing

designs above, creating a world of color

homelessness in Allegheny County.

waiting to be explored. With whimsical

9

HomelessFund.E JoinMe.org/

elements suspended in the air and tall

Champs2020

blooming trees creating color overhead,

ROSES & THORNS: A PITTSBURGH OPERA FASHION EVENT

20

look forward to this season of renewal.

Don't miss the most fashionable

ANNUAL PITTSBURGH ARTS & CRAFTS SPRING FEVER FESTIVAL

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Shop over 180 booths at the area's

30TH ANNUAL PITTSBURGH BRIDAL SHOWCASE

night of the year with the Pittsburgh Opera Fashion Event. This year, the Pittsburgh Opera is partnering with

34

Lela

Rose,

March 20-23! FamilyFestivals.com/

Fairmont Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh Opera House

designer

will be on hand, so be sure to stop by

Choices

Spring-Fever-Festival

21 SPRING FLOWER SHOW: CANOPY OF COLOR Phipps Conservatory

guests are encouraged to look up and Phipps.Conservatory.org

Monroeville Convention Center

largest

arts

and

crafts

festival.

Pittsburgh and Studio Booth to pres-

Everything from jewellery, decora-

ent an unforgettable fashionable eve-

tive painting, candles, embellished

Calling all couples getting married!

ning. Experience a fashion show like no

clothing, functional and decorative

Over 200 of Pittsburgh's finest

other with a delightful operatic twist.

wood, fabric decor, purses, soft

wedding experts will feature every

PittsburghOpera.org

sculpture, seasonal floral designs,

service imaginable for planning your

prints, pet treats & collars, lawn &

wedding, reception, and honeymoon.

garden decor and much, much more

PghBridalShowcase.com

Pittsburgh North Lifestyle | March 2020

David L. Lawrence Convention Center


OYSTER RAW BAR. FRESH FISH. COCKTAILS. Pittsburgh’s Fresh Fish Experts

WWW.OFFTHEHOOKFISH.COM RESERVATIONS: 724.719.2877

908 WARRENDALE VILLAGE DRIVE WARRENDALE, PA


GRANITE • QUARTZ • CABINETRY

There’s no better choice in the North Hills

CREEKSIDE GRANITE AND MORE

Our Story & Promise

For eleven years the owner and a small group of craftsmen have been enhancing homes in the north hills with beautiful kitchens and baths. Our owner and trusted general manager attend to every detail on every job. Start to finish, we are there working and managing so that the job is perfect—the first time and every time. You won’t find that kind of attention, care, and dedication to your home from any other craftsmen.

But let’s let the most discerning customers in the north hills tell you in their own words: “The pros at Creekside showed us the best selection of material in all of Pittsburgh.”

“Once we met Justin and Jessica we knew we were in the right hands. They were professional, reliable, true to their word and craft, and great to work with. We trusted them, and it worked out just as we wanted it to.”

GIVE US A CALL. WE’LL MAKE IT BEAUTIFUL.

814.670.1044 | Ask for Jessica | 1884 Allegheny Avenue, Reno, PA 16343 | CreeksideGranite.com


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