Luxury Homes in the Greater Pittsburgh Area

Wikipedia defines luxury real estate as “the real estate market niche targeted to high-net-worth individuals. These individuals tend to own multiple homes in numerous locations across the world.”  Traditionally, luxury living meant a prominent address and high-priced ZIP code.  Today, luxury is more than just a locale; it is a combination of lifestyle goals and quality amenities.

Achieve Realty’s Bill Dietrich, 32-year real estate professional, is setting new trends in Greater Pittsburgh’s luxury real estate market.  Dietrich gives us his insights and experiences into today’s luxury home buyer, "From the very beginning of my real estate career I focused on luxury homes. In 2015 my average sell price was $972,000.  I have sold over $100 million in luxury real estate during my career."

“Today's luxury home buyer isn't simply looking for a big home.  They are seeking distinctive architecture with a list of must-have amenities.”

Modern luxury homes incorporate elements that cater to a unique lifestyle.   Here is our list of features that we have found intrigues today’s modern luxury homebuyer:

Airy and open floor plans.  Say good-bye to formal living rooms and traditional dining rooms.  Think open floor plans with family spaces.  Homebuyers want to see the kitchen and the great room.   Dens will be the next feature to be erased from the homebuyer’s wish list. 

A kitchen fit for a top chef.  Since the kitchen is the heart of the home, homebuyers are requiring chef-life kitchens with quality appliances, warming draws, wine refrigerators and plenty of storage space.

A large, elegant master bedroom with spa-like bathrooms, dressing areas and walk-in closets.  Bathrooms include soaking tubs and massive showers with head-to-toe shower jets. Walk-in closets typically feature walls lined with cedar shelves, display racks, lighting and mirrors.

Game rooms and theaters in finished lower levels create a space for the homeowner with the feeling of never having to leave the comforts of their home.

Outdoor kitchens with entertaining spaces are becoming more and more popular among wealthier homebuyers.  Topping the wish list for the ideal outdoor kitchen includes a complete kitchen with stainless sinks and prep areas, built–in gas grills, refrigerators for food and drinks, and stone patio seating areas with fireplaces, pools, hot tubs and Jacuzzis.

Quality over quantity is the mantra for the modern luxury homebuyer.  Quality construction is more important than square footage.  Homebuyers still seek architectural details that fill their homes with character, but with less formality.

Each person’s interpretation of luxury is subjective depending upon personal style, taste and lifestyle goals.  Contact Bill Dietrich and Achieve Realty when you’re shopping for a modern luxury home in the Greater Pittsburgh area.