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Pittsburgh's residential and commercial real estate markets are bucking the national trend down. Moody's recently rated the commercial market number one. The New York Times reported that most residential markets were down in 2008, while Pittsburgh enjoyed a 2.2 percent gain. Pittsburgh Business Times Article

Pittsburgh is amazing. The other day I received an email about one of my properties from Zillow.com and it said the value had increased by $24,000. I am aware that may not be the acual case, but I don't doubt that city properties in Pittsburgh are still undervalued. As far as the Allegheny City flats are concerned, I have heard news about great retail--Rita's Italian Ice on East Ohio Street and a new Thai restaurant on Western Avenue, which I suspect will be the first of three restaurants to be in that spot recently to survive. If you're looking for an investment in Pittsburgh, check out 1417 Sandusky Street offered at $54,900. For more information on Pittsburgh, email me at pghcityhomes@gmail.com

POLL QUESTION RESULTS

In the coming year, 57 percent of respondents expect prices in Pittsburgh to rise, 14 percent say it will decline and 28 percent look for it to stay the same.

If you've been listening to Lynn Cullen this morning, there's been a great discussion about gas prices, mass transit and how its going to impact the suburbs. Also in my Small House Talk email I received this link to an article that could just be outlining a double wammy for the suburbs The incredible shrinking house

INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY Looking for a solid investment? 33 Solar Street, $19,900, Move in Condition, minutes to highway, walk to town. Short walk to a number of buses to Oakland, McKinight Road, downtown, more. Covered front porch.

INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY $64,900... Located in the Mexican War Streets Historic neighborhood, this home is completely renovated. Spacious bedroom suite with study, bookcases and closet. Newer mechanics. Eat in kitchen, security system. Buy, rent and save for retirement! WALK SCORE: 77!!! email: pghcityhomes @ gmail.com