Luck Favors the Prepared

Around this time of year, we hear a lot about luck. Lucky finds. Lucky breaks. Four-leaf clovers and pots of gold. 🍀

But the older I get, the more I realize that what looks like luck is usually something else entirely — it’s preparation meeting the right moment.

March in Western Pennsylvania feels a lot like that. We’re in between seasons again. The snow hasn’t fully let go, but the sunlight is lingering a little longer each evening. Accord’s DQ is getting ready to open its windows again (which, let’s be honest, feels like the real start of spring around here 🍦), fish fry lines are forming on Fridays 🐟, and the Phipps Spring Flower Show is right around the corner 🌷. You can feel the shift — even if it’s subtle.

It’s the same in the housing market.

Things aren’t frantic. They’re not frozen either. They’re steady. Homes are still selling. Buyers are still buying. Sellers are still moving forward — just more thoughtfully. Prices are rising, but at a healthier pace. Rates are easing into the low 6% range. Inventory is slowly increasing, though we’re still feeling that long-term supply crunch here in Western PA.

It’s not about being lucky right now.

It’s about being ready.

Ready buyers are finding opportunities because they have room to think again. Ready sellers are succeeding because they’re pricing with strategy, not emotion. The energy feels calmer. More balanced. More realistic.

And honestly? I kind of like it.

On the home front, we’re stepping into a season of celebration. Wedding planning for our son is underway (which still doesn’t feel real some days—no I still don’t have a dress…), and several of our kids’ friends are welcoming their first babies into the world. Showers are being planned. Registries are being filled. Our extended circle is growing — and there’s something so hopeful about that. And in the middle of all of it, we’ll be celebrating my husband Scott’s birthday on March 17th — yes, St. Patrick’s Day 🍀 — which always makes this month feel a little extra festive in our house.

Inside this month’s newsletter, we’re sharing the hot spots for the best local fish dinners and the best St. Patty’s Day celebrations, fun community events happening around us, and what’s really going on in the new construction world — because building is buzzing right now. We’ll also highlight our current inventory, our active buyer wish lists, and talk a little about why the right agent truly matters — especially when it comes to feedback and communication. And as always, we’ll share a bit about what we’ve been up to lately.

March is a reminder that growth doesn’t always arrive loudly. Sometimes it shows up quietly — in longer days, in small market shifts, in babies being born, in plans being made.

And when preparation meets that kind of momentum… Well, that’s when the magic happens.

Lenten Fish Dinners

Lenten Fish Fry Fridays 🐟✨

Where: St. Conrad Church Social Hall, 125 Buttercup Rd., Butler

February 13 - March 27 | 4:00 AM - 6:30 PM

Enjoy a classic Friday Fish Fry at All Saints Parish at St. Conrad Church Social Hall. Choose fried or baked fish with all the traditional sides and dessert — $16 per meal. Takeout only, so be sure to order early online

and grab dinner the easy way! 👉 See the full event schedule

Fish & Chicken Dinners 🍗🐟

Where: Saxonburg VFC Ballroom (take-out only)

March, 4,11, 18, 25 and April 1 | 4:00 AM - 6:00 PM or until sold out

Support your local heroes at the Saxonburg Volunteer Fire Company Fish & Chicken Dinners, held at the Saxonburg VFC Ballroom. Take-out only — so plan ahead and grab a delicious dinner while supporting a

great local cause! 👉 View event details

Lenten Fish Fry Fridays by Cabot Church🐟✨

Where: 707 Winfield Rd, Cabot

Every Friday in March until April 14| 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM

Join the community at Cabot Church every Friday from 4–7pm for their Lenten Fish Fry. Enjoy fried fish, chicken tenders, or shrimp with sides and dessert — available for dine-in or carry-out. Good food and

even better fellowship await! 👉 View event details

All-You-Can-Eat Fish Buffet 🐟🔥

Where: 100 Firehall Rd, Freeport

Every Friday starting February 20 until April 13 | 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM

Enjoy an all-you-can-eat fish buffet while supporting your local fire department — come hungry and bring the family! 👉 View event details

Friday Fish Fry at the VFW 🇺🇸🐟

Where: James Stoner VFW Post 6233

February 20 - April 3 | 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Take-out starts at 4PM

Enjoy fried or baked fish, shrimp, chicken tenders, sandwiches, and plenty of sides — great food, great people, and a great cause! 👉 View event details

Fish Fry-days at Freedom Farms 🐟🌾

Where: 795 Pittsburgh Road, Butler

February 20 – April 3 | 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Choose from fish sandwiches, shrimp or fish tacos, tuna salad, or classic fish & chips — served fresh from the Farm-to-Fork Kitchen (11am–8pm). Pair it with a stop at Grist House Beer Crib, open until 10pm, and make it a Friday night out! 👉 View event details

St. Patty’s Day Celebrations

The Official Lucky’s St. Patrick’s Day Bar Crawl - Pittsburgh

Where: Enclave, 1602 E Carson St, Pittsburgh, PA

Saturday, March 14 | 4:00 PM - 11:59 PM

Celebrate St. Paddy’s Day in the city with the ultimate bar crawl. Enjoy drink specials, festive giveaways, mid-party fun,

and an epic after party as you hop between some of the best bars downtown. Wear your green, grab your crew, and

make it a St. Patrick’s celebration to remember — 21+ only. 👉 See the full event schedule

St. Patrick’s Day Cruise with The Clintones 🚢🍀🎶

Where: Gateway Clipper Fleet, 350 W Station Square Dr, Pittsburgh, PA

Friday, March, 13 | 8:00PM

Celebrate St. Paddy’s Day 90s-style aboard the Gateway Clipper Fleet on Friday with The Clintones. Rock out to your

favorite hits from Pearl Jam, Nirvana, Green Day, and more while cruising the river — a festive night of throwback vibes

and Irish cheer! 👉 View event details

St. Patrick’s Day with The Beagle Brothers 🍀🎶

Where: Trace Brewing, 4312 Main Street, Pittsburgh

Saturday, March 14 | 2:00 PM

Start St. Patrick’s celebrations early at Freedom Farms with Kegs & Eggs beginning at 8:00am. Enjoy a traditional Irish

breakfast from the Farm-to-Fork Kitchen paired with festive drinks from Grist House Beer Crib — the perfect way to kick

off parade day! 👉 View event details

Kegs & Eggs at Freedom Farms 🍳🍺🍀

Where: 795 Pittsburgh Rd, Butler, PA

Saturday, March 14 | 8:00 AM

Enjoy an all-you-can-eat fish buffet while supporting your local fire department — come hungry and bring the family! 👉

View event details

The Low Kings’ Shawn and Adams at Cork Harbour Pub

Where: Cork Harbour, 181 43rd Street, Pittsburgh

Tuesday, March 17 | 5:30 PM

Celebrate March 17 at Cork Harbour Pub (181 43rd Street) with live tunes from The Low Kings members Shawn and Adam

starting at 5:30pm. Grab a pint, enjoy the classics, and soak in the festive Lawrenceville vibes! 👉 View event details

Kegs and Eggs at the Cinderland Warehouse ☘🍻

Where: 2601 Smallman Street, Pittsburgh

Tuesday, March 17| 5:30 PM

Kick off parade day at Cinderlands Warehouse (2601 Smallman St). Enjoy Irish-inspired brunch bites, green beer, Irish

coffee, and festive drinks — no cover charge and plenty of space to celebrate. 👉 View event details

Irish City St. Patrick’s Day Celebraton ☘🎶

Where: 150 Ferry St, Creighton, PA

Saturday, March 14 | 8:00AM - 4:00 PM

Celebrate all things green at Pittsburgh Brewing Company (150 Ferry St). Enjoy kegs & eggs, live bands, food trucks,

green beer, and plenty of festive fun throughout the brewery. Tickets required — 21+ only — so grab yours early and make a day of it! 👉 View event details

Events in Butler County - March

Scavenger Hunt and Leprechaun Hide and Seek ☘🏆

Where: 230 Mercer St, Harmony

Wednesday, March 4 | 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Head to 230 Mercer St, Harmony for a fun-filled evening of clues, laughs, and prizes. This all-ages event is free to join — no registration required — with gift card prizes for the lucky winners. Grab your crew,

wear your green, and let the hunt begin!👉 See the full event schedule

Bunny Floral Cookie Class 🐰🍪🌸

Where: 612 S Pike Rd, Sarver

Tuesday, March 24 | 6:30 PM

Get creative at White Box Studio for a fun Easter-themed cookie decorating class — no experience needed! Your ticket includes 6 cookies, icing, and tools to decorate. It’s BYOB, so grab a friend and enjoy a sweet night out. Spots are limited — reserve yours early! 👉 View event details

Shamrock Shuffle 5K & Fun Walk ☘🏃♀

Where: 1116 Gosser St, Leechburg

Saturday, March 21 | 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Lace up and go green at the 10th Annual Shamrock Shuffle presented by Semper Gratus on Saturday, March 21 in West Leechburg. This St. Patrick’s-themed 5K and 1-Mile Fun Walk supports local families while bringing the community together for music, swag, and festive fun. Costumes encouraged — all ages welcome! 👉 View event details

Adult Easter Egg Hunt 🐣🍷

Where: 1637 State Route 56, Spring Church

Sunday, March 22 | 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Grab your friends and head to Edgewood Winery for a grown-up twist on Easter fun. Hunt for prize-filled eggs, enjoy wine and PA brews, and stick around for music, food, and festive vibes. Prepaid tickets required — no refunds — so save your spot and join the fun! 👉 View event details

Line Dance Night 🤠🎶

Where: Saxonburg, Fireman’s Club, 155 Pittsburgh St, Saxonburg

Saturday, March 7 | 6:00 PM

Dust off your boots and head to Saxonburg Volunteer Fire Company (155 Pittsburgh St) for a night of boot-scootin’ fun. Doors open at 6pm, dancing kicks off at 8pm and goes until midnight. 21+ event with a $5 cover for non-members — kitchen open and good times guaranteed! 👉 View event details

New Construction Is Buzzing — And Here’s What You Need to Know

There is real energy in the new construction world right now — especially in Southern Butler County and along the Route 19 / I-79 corridor. Buyers are re-engaging. Builders are opening lots. Incentives are reappearing. And for many families, building feels like the clean-slate option they’ve been waiting for.

But here’s the truth: building is not as simple as walking into a model home and picking cabinets. Let’s start with lending — because this is where many buyers get tripped up.

There are several types of new construction financing, and which one is right for you depends on the builder and the project:

• Production Builder Financing – Many larger builders have preferred lenders offering closing cost incentives or rate buydowns. These can be attractive — but it’s important to compare terms carefully. Incentives sometimes come with trade-offs in rate or flexibility.

• Construction-to-Permanent Loans – Often used with custom builders. This is a one-time close loan that converts to a traditional mortgage once construction is complete. It offers convenience but requires strong upfront planning and approval.

• Two-Time Close Construction Loans – Separate construction and permanent financing. This allows more flexibility but can mean additional closing costs.

• Lot Loans – If you’re purchasing land first and building later, this is a different structure entirely.

The right strategy depends on timeline, cash reserves, risk tolerance, and long-term goals. We work closely with trusted local lenders who specialize in new construction, and we’re always happy to connect you to someone who can explain your options clearly.

Now let’s talk about builders.

Production Builders (national or regional companies building in planned communities) often offer streamlined timelines, design centers, and predictable pricing. The advantage? Efficiency and structure. The downside? Limited customization and contract terms that are written heavily in the builder’s favor.

Custom Builders offer more flexibility, unique design, and personalized craftsmanship. The advantage? You get exactly what you want. The downside? Longer timelines, more decision fatigue, and often more moving financial parts.

Neither is “better.” They’re just different — and the right fit depends on your goals.

And here’s something that’s really important:

When you walk into a model home without your own agent and register directly with the builder, the sales rep inside works for the builder — not for you. They are knowledgeable and helpful, but their job is to represent the builder’s interests.

If you register without your own representation, you may not be able to bring in an agent later. And that means no one reviewing contract language with you, no one advising you on lot premiums, structural upgrades vs. cosmetic upgrades, resale considerations, timeline protection, appraisal gaps, or how that community compares to others nearby.

There are things buyers don’t know — because they’ve never built before.

And that’s okay. That’s where I come in.

From understanding builder contracts, to navigating upgrade decisions, to protecting your long-term equity position, to knowing when to push back and when to proceed — representation matters.

New construction is exciting. It’s creative. It’s personal. But it’s also contractual, financial, and strategic.

And when done right? It’s incredibly rewarding.

If you’d like access to the latest building opportunities, available homesites, off-market lots, builder incentives, and trusted lender resources — reach out before you step into a model home. I’m happy to share what’s opening up, what’s coming soon, and what might be the right fit for you.

Let’s make sure you’re prepared — not just lucky.

Buyer Wish Lists — Could You Be Someone’s Lucky Match?

This March, we’re feeling extra lucky — and it might be the perfect time to connect one of our ready buyers with the right home.

We currently have several first-time homebuyers actively searching in Butler County, especially in the Knoch School District, with budgets up to $225,000. We’re also working with motivated buyers looking in Knoch, Mars, Butler, and Seneca Valley School Districts, with price points reaching up to $350,000. These buyers are pre-approved, prepared, and just waiting for the right home to pop up.

We also have clients on the hunt for larger parcels of land in Butler, Lawrence, and Beaver Counties. They’re dreaming of building their forever home near the Route 19 / I-79 corridor, with interest in Zelienople, Harmony, Portersville, Prospect, and Slippery Rock Township — and willing to travel a bit farther for the perfect spot. These buyers are qualified and ready, with budgets up to $1.2 million.

And we’re seeing continued interest from new construction buyers focused on southern Butler County, searching in the $500,000–$700,000 range. They’re looking for thoughtful design, quality craftsmanship, and the opportunity to build something truly their own.

If you — or someone you know — might be the lucky fit for one of these wish lists, let’s connect. Some of the best opportunities happen before a home ever hits the open market.

As always, I’m happy to have a conversation — even if it’s just to explore what’s possible.

Here’s to finding the right match at just the right time.

FEATURED LISTINGS

1. 2013 Cherry Rd, Gibsonia, PA 15044 | For Sale $725,000 New | 4 Beds | 3 Bath | 4686 Sq Ft

Located in the Laurel Grove community, this home offers flexible living designed to support every chapter of life. With two bedrooms on the main level and two additional bedrooms with a full bath on the finished lower level, the layout provides privacy and versatility—ideal for teens, guests, in-laws, or home office needs. The main level features open, light-filled living areas centered around a stone fireplace, along with a spacious kitchen and dining area perfect for everyday living and entertaining. Downstairs, the expansive lower level offers space for a game room, media room, workout area, or guest suite. Outside, enjoy access to community walking trails, a clubhouse, fitness center, and pool. Located within the Pine-Richland School District and minutes from nearby shopping and dining, this home blends comfort, convenience, and adaptable living in a desirable community.

2. 266 S Rebecca Street, Saxonburg Boro, PA 16056 | FOR SALE $47,500 | Acres 0.23 | Lot Size 10,018

Perfect homesite if you are looking to build a smaller home with private yard but not too much to maintain. Located in Saxonburg, Knoch School District. Site offers public utilities including water, sewage, gas & electric. Exclusive Builder is Leicher Construciton LLC. Conveniently located just down the road from Main Street, and all the beautiful amenities Saxonburg has to offer.