Outdoor Activities in our Lifestyle Communities

We know that natural light and the outdoors are great for overall health, but did you know that the benefits are specific and measurable? Vitamin D that your body makes from natural sunlight is crucial to maintain bone density, fight depression, improve sleeping habits, and keep a number of inflammatory diseases at bay. And the best part? It doesn’t matter if you get your sunlight indoors or out. 

That’s why at Weaver Homes, we design our homes with large, double-hung, energy-efficient windows that allow for maximum sunlight and fresh air flow. Biophilic design, as it is called, encourages the use of natural elements such as plants, water, air and sunlight inside of spaces to improve quality of life. We keep this design philosophy top-of-mind as we create homes and lifestyle communities for our residents to be healthy, happy and thrive.

Not only are the interiors of our homes open, airy and bright, we make sure you have access to beautiful, safe outdoor spaces, too. Multiple studies suggest that one of the key indicators of longevity is access to green space. Time spent outdoors improves physical, mental and social well-being. 

At Weaver Homes, we’ve long understood the importance of nature and access to the great outdoors. All of our communities include a variety of shared outdoor living spaces – pools, walking trails, and clubhouse patios – plus private outdoor courtyards when it’s time to relax, unwind, or share cozy family moments. And our homeowners enjoy plenty of benefits from their time spent outdoors! 

Enjoying the Outdoors in Our Active Adult Communities

  • Physical benefits. Physical activity such as walking is good for joint flexibility, strengthening muscles, and the cardiovascular system. Spending time outdoors (i.e. walking, gardening or swimming) can lower the inflammation levels associated with hypertension, autoimmune diseases and depression. Living near green spaces has also been shown to lower the prevalence of certain diseases, while lowering mortality rates, too! 
  • Mental benefits. Physical activity that takes place in a natural setting improves the memory, increases cognitive function, and has a restorative effect overall. Thirty minutes or more of gardening, or even just looking up at the trees from your private courtyard, can have a significant effect on moods, stress levels, and mental health. 
  • Socialization benefits. Social encounters that occur during physical activity have a positive effect as well. They create a sense of community, and lessen any feeling of isolation. Walking in groups, playing cards by the pool, and tending a garden are all great for exercising the mind and body, while providing vital interpersonal connections. 

Residents of Weaver Homes active adult communities in West PA enjoy all of these advantages, plus so many others. With a focus on healthy spaces – both indoors and out – Weaver Homes are naturally designed to improve your quality of life for years to come. Visit our lifestyle communities: The Villas at Spring Valley in Zelienople, Scenic Ridge in Harmony, Millcreek Farms in Valencia, and Heritage Crossing in Sarver.

Top Golf Courses Near Pittsburgh

Pennsylvania boasts more than 500 public golf courses, and many of Golf Digest’s best ranked courses are located in Pittsburgh!  There’s a lot of variety, with courses running the gamut from tree-lined, heavily wooded greens to rugged, hilly layouts. Regardless of what you’re in the mood for, North Pittsburgh has a golf course for you! 

Here are a few of the more interesting public courses near our communities!

Best Golf Courses in Western PA

Cranberry Highlands Golf Club | Cranberry Township, PA 16066

One of the best courses in the state, Cranberry Highlands embraces the natural challenges of western Pennsylvania’s rugged landscape with a stunning 186-acre course that provides a test for players at every level. It is walkable, and ringed in the timberstock that defines the region.

Pretty centrally located to all the Weaver Homes Communities (closer to Spring Valley & Scenic Ridge) 

Treesdale Golf and Country Club | Gibsonia, PA 15044

Treesdale’s courses feature the vision of Arnold Palmer and the Palmer Course Design Company. They’re beautiful, challenging but fair, and playable for all. The three nine-hole courses wind through rolling fields, apple orchards, lush forest and long spectacular lakes and wetlands. 

Close to Hickory Glen, Camp Trees, MillCreek Farm

best golf courses in west pa

Rittswood Golf Course | Valencia PA 16059

Once a cattle and chicken farm owned by the Ritts family, the 150-acre, 18-hole Rittswood golf course debuted in 1966. Designed by Jim Harrison and Fred Garbin to showcase the area’s rolling hills, it features quiet, secluded greens with trees lining the fairways.

Close to MillCreek Farm, Hickory Glen, Camp Trees, Heritage Crossing 

Suncrest Golf & Grille | Butler, PA 16002

Suncrest’s meticulously landscaped course offers challenging play and affordable rates. Uphill greens, strategically placed water features, and plentiful trees make this 18-hole course an adventure every time. But the views are gorgeous!

Close to MillCreek Farm, Hickory Glen, Camp Trees, Heritage Crossing 

Strawberry Ridge Golf Course | Harmony, PA 16037

Located about 2 miles north of Zelienople, Strawberry Ridge offers challenging, flat fairways with large inviting greens designed to accommodate all skill levels. The 18-hole, par 70 championship course is surrounded by beautiful countryside, including rolling hills and banks of trees.

Close to Spring Valley, Scenic Ridge

Featured floorpan: the Harrison

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Between your first family discussion about a new home and the moment your builder hands over your keys, there are so many memorable experiences to enjoy along your journey. Documenting those experiences will add a whole new level of excitement for everyone! And of course, once you are all settled in, you will love to look back on this unique part of your family’s story. 

From a scrapbook to videos, take a look at a few fun ways to document your new home journey:

Ultimate Gray and Illuminating (Yellow): Every year, Pantone announces a “color of the year” that embodies a unique message. For 2021, they chose Pantone 17-5104 Ultimate Gray and Pantone 13-0647 Illuminating (yellow), two uplifting colors that convey strength and hopefulness. These soft, modern hues work beautifully together (and apart) in any space; try using them as wall colors, in furniture accessories, throughout table displays, and more. Ultimate Gray and Illuminating (Yellow): Every year, Pantone announces a “color of the year” that embodies a unique message. For 2021, they chose Pantone 17-5104 Ultimate Gray and Pantone 13-0647 Illuminating (yellow), two uplifting colors that convey strength and hopefulness. These soft, modern hues work beautifully together (and apart) in any space; try using them as wall colors, in furniture accessories, throughout table displays, and more. Pantone’s yearly colors provide endless opportunities to give your home the fresh, contemporary vibe you’re looking for in the new year. And you don’t have to stop there — take a look at the unique shades that major paint companies have chosen to highlight this year! Pantone’s yearly colors provide endless opportunities to give your home the fresh, contemporary vibe you’re looking for in the new year. And you don’t have to stop there — take a look at the unique shades that major paint companies have chosen to highlight this year!

Staging Your Current Home to Sell

Once you’ve decided on your perfect new Weaver home, all that’s left to do is sell your current one. And this is where staging comes in. Effective staging isn’t just for show — in fact, staging your home the right way will ensure that you sell it as quickly as possible and maximize its sales price. Take a look at a few of our favorite tips and tricks when it comes to the art of staging.

Tips to Sell Your Home

Declutter: First and foremost, it’s crucial to go through every room in the home to clean up the “clutter zones,” or areas filled with old keepsakes, decor, and things to throw away. Either pack or discard everything to make the space feel open and inviting. (This also makes moving much easier!)

Depersonalize: Buyers want to look at your old home and envision making it their own, so make sure to “depersonalize.” Painting colored walls with trendy grays or off-whites will make your home look like an open canvas that’s ready to be personalized. Mirrors on the wall also help to create a wide open feel.

Make Quick Fixes: The next thing to do is look for the “quick fixes” — removing old area rugs to show off the hardwood floors, taking off curtains and cleaning windows, changing lampshades, replacing light bulbs for optimal lighting, rearranging furniture, etc. Little adjustments make a big impact.

Decide on Furniture: When it comes to the furniture, it’s essential to make a final decision on what should stay and what should go. Always make sure to keep color, style, and function in mind to make the most confident and informed choice, and really see your home through a buyer’s eyes.

Feel Fresh: The majority of potential buyers see your home in photos online before they see it in person, so everything you do in your home should be about that crucial first impression. Think about touch-ups that evoke a fresh and clean feeling like bright flowers, folded towels in the bathroom, and bowls of fruit in the kitchen.

When you understand where the eye goes first, as well as what’s pleasant and positive and what needs a change, you can make the best adjustments to not only impress buyers, but win them over. We can’t wait to work with you to get you moved into one of our Lifestyle Communities or Estate Homes in Greater Pittsburgh!

New Luxury Homes Coming Soon to Hickory Glen

A gorgeous, brand new home situated amid a lush landscape where views, privacy, and luxury abound… If this sounds like the life you’ve been working for and dreaming of, then you’ll love the newest phase of homesites at Hickory Glen, the premier single-family community in Adams Township, PA.

The Neighborhood

Nestled amid 60 wooded acres in a truly distinctive location, Hickory Glen is set to release 22 new homesites this spring, all at least half an acre on a quiet, private, cul-de-sac street. The protected woodlands surrounding the 40-home community offer stunning views from each home’s private morning room, covered front porch, or backyard deck.

Hickory Glen is only minutes from the Mars Area School District, which serves families with children in pre-K to 12th grade. The community is also walking distance to Adams Township Community Park. With its rolling green lawn, 1.3 mile walking trail, two playgrounds, multiple sports courts, and four pavilions, it’s the perfect Saturday get-away for the entire family.

The Homes

It might be hard, though, to leave the comfort and luxury of your new Weaver home. Hickory Glen’s open concept homes with first floor primary suite options offer ample square footage that can be personalized to your family’s unique wants and needs. Choose from 11 distinct floor plans with 3-5 bedrooms, 2.5-4.5 baths, a 2-3 car garage, and up to 3,803 square feet. Here are just a few features that set these stately homes apart:

Open Concept Layout: Your indoor views are almost as expansive as the ones outside, making your home the ideal space to host both intimate gatherings and large celebrations. Even when it’s just you and your family relaxing after work or on the weekends, there’s room for everyone to spread out, but still feel connected.

Flexible Space: With the option of an additional bedroom, finished basement, study, den, or flex room, you can accommodate every hobby, interest, activity, and school project. If you need it, there’s space for it. 

Luxury Primary Suite: You haven’t seen a primary suite quite like this before. With enough space to accommodate the largest of furniture with room left to spare, our primary suites feel luxurious and exclusive. There’s a spacious master bath with dual vanities, a soaking tub, and a walk-in shower, and some walk-in closets are large enough to double as dressing areas. 

At Hickory Glen, your dream home and dream lifestyle can both become a reality. To be the first to receive information about the newest phase of this exclusive community, please request more information or call June at 724-609-5261. We can’t wait to welcome you home!

10 Spring Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Home Good As New

Spring — with all of its glorious sunshine, warm temperatures, and colorful blooms — has arrived in Pittsburgh! But before you start taking long weekend trips to Cucumber Falls or spending the day with the kids at Idlewild, there are a few things you should do after the cold winter season to make sure your home is well-maintained and good as new.

If you’ve just moved into your new Weaver home, you won’t have to worry about many of these items for quite some time, but it doesn’t hurt to get into the habit of checking. A day of preventative home maintenance can save you huge amounts of time and money later on.

Spring Home Maintenance Tips

1) Change the batteries on smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. Both alarms should be tested monthly, but you should replace the batteries on smoke alarms once a year, and on carbon monoxide alarms every six months. 

2) Check the attic for mold or pests. Before it gets too hot, now is a good time to check your attic for signs of damage, mold, or pests. It’s better to get ahead of any problems in your attic because they’ll only get worse with time, and can eventually affect the rest of the home.

3) Clean gutters and downspouts. After the falling leaves of autumn and winter, it’s best to clean all gutters and downspouts to make sure water is flowing freely away from your home to keep your foundation nice and dry.

4) Repair, seal and paint exterior wood. Freezing temperatures, rain, and snow can take its toll on woodwork. Give your fences, decks, railings, and gazebos some TLC so that you can enjoy them all spring and summer.

5) Check for termites. Eastern subterranean termite infestation is not a problem you want to have. These insects swarm in the spring, usually after a warm rainfall. If you see any signs of them, like small holes in drywall, discolored or drooping drywall, or peeling paint that looks like water damage, call a professional exterminator asap.

 

6) Inspect the roof. After winter storms, ice and snow, have a good look at your roof and check for missing shingles, damaged metal pipes, loose gutters, or anything else that doesn’t look quite right. Even a small leak can add up to big problems over time.

7) Check sprinklers, hoses, and irrigation systems. Check for any leaks or damaged hoses, pipes or sprinkler heads. By making repairs and ensuring the system is watering only what it should, you’ll avoid wasting water and paying a too-high bill.

8) Check and replace damaged screens. One of the best parts of spring is opening the windows to let in fresh air! Make sure nothing unwanted gets in by inspecting window and door screens for holes or ill fits. 

9) Service your HVAC system. Your heating and cooling system will keep your home comfortable for years, but it’s always a good idea to change the filter and have the system professionally inspected before summer heat sets in.

10) Check the condition of concrete walkways, driveways, patios, and stairs. Freezing and thawing can cause concrete and asphalt to crack and buckle. Make sure there are no hazards on your property that may cause people to trip or fall. 

In a Weaver home, maintenance is easy, and we make sure your home is in good shape even after you close. Any items that need to be inspected or repaired within your first year of home ownership are taken care of by our warranty department, so that you can continue to enjoy the peace of mind that comes with owning a brand new home.

For more information about our new homes in Pittsburgh North, please contact June at  724-609-5261. We can’t wait to welcome you home!

Bring Your New Home to Life in Our Design Studio

Designing a home is a once-in-a lifetime, emotion-filled experience. Rarely do you have the opportunity to choose how your home will look and feel, top to bottom, from the very beginning. That’s why we place so much emphasis on the design process. It’s important to us that you love every aspect of your new home, so we give you total control. From cabinets and countertops to light fixtures and flooring, you can personalize nearly every aspect of your home to make it uniquely yours. 

Our First Impressions Interior Design Studio is what makes the process fun, easy and straightforward. Conveniently located at Weaver Homes in Mars, PA, the Design Studio offers complete models of kitchens, bathrooms, and living areas, so that you get a sense of how your selections look in a real home. We have aligned with the top brands in the industry to bring you the highest quality trending interior choices for your new home.

We make the process easy. Our talented designer, Megan, will take you through each step, guiding you on style choices and complementary finishes to make sure your entire home looks cohesive and beautifully put together. She’ll also make sure you stay on trend and within budget. There are never any surprises about what your design selections or optional upgrades cost or how they’ll look in your home.

You’ll meet with Megan after a deposit is made on your home, and a specific day and time is arranged to meet and make your unique selections. You’ll have the entire Design Studio to yourself during your appointment, so you never feel rushed to make a decision. We understand how important it is to get your home “just right,” and that’s exactly what Megan will help you do.

New Home Virtual Tours

If inspiration strikes before your design appointment, you’re always welcome to visit our Design Center during the open houses that are held several times a month. (Contact us to learn when the next open house is!) You can also visit virtually at any time by browsing our online photo and video galleries, or by using our Design Center Matterport Tour.

Home design is a collaborative process, so be sure to bring anything to your appointment that inspires you. That could be a lookbook you’ve created from magazine clippings, a folder on your computer or tablet where you’ve saved images, a picture of your favorite piece of furniture, or even flowers whose colors you love. Megan will work with you to choose the finishes that define your style and speak to your heart. You will LOVE the home that you helped to create. 

For more information on Weaver Homes’ design process, or our new homes and communities in western Pennsylvania, please contact June at 724-609-5261. We can’t wait to get started!

5 Ways to Enjoy Your Patio This Spring

With spring peeking around the corner in western Pennsylvania, there’s no better place to enjoy the warmer weather than in the backyard of your gorgeous new Weaver home. With patios included in each floor plan and styles ranging from cozy to grand, you can dress these spaces up (or down) to reflect your lifestyle and share the best moments this spring with family and friends outdoors.

Here are five ways to enjoy your patio and make the most of the beautiful spring weather!

1) Turn your patio into an outdoor living room

Enjoy after-dinner drinks or long afternoons reading outside by going for the ultimate in comfort. Select a few plush couches or settees, a soft outdoor rug, pillows for lounging, and lots of warm blankets to get cozy after the sun goes down. This time of year, we promise your outdoor living room will get just as much use as your indoor space!

2) Enjoy s’mores with an outdoor fireplace

A back patio is the perfect spot for an outdoor fire pit or fireplace. You can find them in an array of sizes and materials to match your home’s style. Your grandkids will LOVE making s’mores, and you’ll love making sweet memories, around the fire in the comfort and safety of your own yard. What was once only an occasional camping experience can be an everyday treat at home.

3) Create an outdoor movie theatre

Your spacious yard is the perfect place for family movie night! Purchase a screen and projector, or get creative with a white sheet, and set up blankets, pillows, low chairs, and of course, a fully-loaded snack and beverage bar on the patio to enjoy your favorite films under the stars.

4) Let the light shine

Lighting can make or break interior design, but did you know you can use light to completely transform your outdoor space, too? Use string lights, fairy curtain lights, or paper lanterns to instantly create ambiance and make your patio cozier and more welcoming. When you add a pair of comfortable, cushioned chairs and your favorite beverage, you’ll never want to leave. 

5) Dine outdoors in elegance

The most elegant meals can take place right in your own gorgeous backyard. Create an unforgettable dining experience with formal dinnerware, candles, and a gorgeous tablescape. For ultimate luxury, have a catering company take care of all the cooking and cleaning up.

However you choose to dress up your outdoor space, it’s sure to be a highlight of your new home in Western PA. We can’t think of a better way to enjoy the great outdoors than right in your own backyard. For more information, please contact us at 724-609-5261.

7 Tips for a Stress-Free Moving Day

Once you’ve closed on your beautiful new home in Pittsburgh North, it’s time to start planning move-in day! We believe this day should be celebrated instead of stressed, and with a bit of planning, it can be an exciting, memorable event for the whole family. After all, you only move into your dream home every so often…

Even if you’ve got the big tasks squared away, the little things can add up quickly – and can determine how well moving day goes. From disconnecting your services to securing transportation for your pet, here are a few last-minute tasks to complete to make sure move-in day as easy as possible! 

Tips for Moving Day

1) Make Calls: A few simple calls will go a long way in the first few weeks and months after you move in. Notify your medical providers that you’re moving, cancel your subscriptions, alert utility companies to disconnect your services, and notify employers and insurance providers of your new address. See here for a full, comprehensive list. 

2) Begin Packing Early: Don’t wait a week before moving day to start packing. Begin packing items you know you won’t use over the next month – like kitchen appliances, decor, and clothing – well in advance to help ease the stress. Set a timer to pack for 30 minutes every day over the next month and this task won’t feel so overwhelming!

3) Take the Time to Organize: When packing, it’s important to clearly label each box for a smoother move. Group the contents of each box with similar items, and add large, bold labels so that they are easy to read. To go the extra mile, add a color coded system for kitchen supplies, bathroom supplies, etc. to avoid any frantic searching!

4) Pet Transportation: You know your furry friends better than anyone, so whether they’ll be more comfortable with you or a family member taking them to their new home, make sure to secure their ride to avoid any issues. In your new home, designate a space just for them and fill it with their favorite things – blankets, toys, and treats. They’ll feel right at home in no time!

5) Overnight Bag: Pack a separate overnight bag with a change of clothes and toiletries (soap, shampoo, toothbrush and toothpaste, toilet paper, deodorant, hair brush, etc.), plus medications, towels, and washcloths for every member of the family. You’ll be glad to have quick access to these items that you may not be thinking about as you’re getting settled in.

6) Furniture/Trash Pick Up: If you’re rightsizing and getting rid of furniture or old televisions that are in your current house, make sure to contact your town’s trash department and/or large item removal companies first. Most trash companies cannot handle the large capacity of the trash that might come from moving out of a home, and require separate pick-ups.

7) Stock Up: Stock up on snacks like fruit, nuts, crackers, and granola bars, since they require no refrigeration and no preparation. You can easily snack on these throughout the day to stay energized and full. Don’t forget bottled water and juice!

As you gear up to move into your new home, keep this checklist handy so that you’re all squared away on the big day. For more information on Weaver Homes’ new homes in West PA and communities near Pittsburgh, or for a private showing, please call us at 385-297-8216.

Benefits of Buying a To-Be-Built Home

You’re looking for a new home, and reviewing your options: Resale or new? Move-in-ready or to-be-built? 

Let’s talk about the benefits of buying a to-be-built home with Weaver Homes. 

  • Personalization: In our Design Studio, you can personalize your home’s features & finishes to fit your family. Inside and out, from the roof to the floors, it’s all yours. This is what makes your new Weaver house feel like your home. 
  • No bidding wars: When you choose a brand new Weaver home, there’s no risk of losing out on what you want or having to pay thousands of dollars over asking price in this competitive market. No stress, more fun!
  • Select your homesite: Enjoy the best of both worlds with a to-be-built home. A brand new home, personalized to your taste, on the exact homesite you want. Choose the perfect spot for your dream home in one of our amazing communities throughout Greater Pittsburgh.

Building with Weaver Homes

Oh, and did we mention how much fun it is to build with Weaver Homes? Our team of experts is ready to make your new home journey an experience you’ll love from beginning to end. 

We build detached and attached patio homes specifically designed for active adults. These homes are spacious and elegantly designed, featuring one-level living for easy mobility and entertaining, ample natural light that brings the outdoors in, and courtyards and patios that create an “outdoor living” space that is an extension of the living room. 

We also build luxury single-family homes for move-up buyers. They include our specialty features, open concept floorplans, first floor owner suite options, and plenty of square footage that can be personalized to make each one truly unique. 

Why settle for someone else’s home when you can have a home that’s brand new and all you? For more information about building with Weaver Homes, visit weaverhomelive.wpengine.com or call 724-609-5261.

6 Reasons to Live in Western Pennsylvania

Access to a world-class city, lush green landscapes, and a low cost of living are just a few reasons that western Pennsylvania is gaining popularity as one of the best places in the country to live. Whether you are returning home after retirement, advancing in your career, or searching for the perfect place to raise a family, western PA is an attractive place to settle in and buy a new home. Let’s explore a few reasons why:

1. Low Cost of Living

Pennsylvania ranks just below the national average when it comes to cost of living – and that’s a good thing! Your dollar will stretch further for necessities such as housing, health care, and utilities. The state sales tax is 6% and excludes pharmaceutical drugs, clothing, residential heating fuels, and food. Pennsylvania also offers attractive benefits for retirees. There is no tax on retirement incomes such as pensions, social security, 401Ks, and IRAs, and seniors over the age of 50 may qualify for property tax rebates. Working adults will be pleased to know that the income tax rate is a flat 3.07%. As always, be sure to consult with your accountant for specifics about taxes. Overall, in Pennsylvania you’ll be able to enjoy a great quality of life AND have money left to save!

2. Nationally Ranked Healthcare

The Pittsburgh metro boasts a high number of doctors per capita. That’s no surprise, given the number of excellent health organizations and universities in the area. To be precise, there are 45 hospitals in western PA, and nine of them are top-ranked facilities. Nationally ranked hospitals like UPMC-University of Pittsburgh Medical Center and Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC offer any service or treatment necessary. When you live in suburban towns like Sarver, Valencia, Harmony, or Zelienople, world-class medical facilities are never more than a few minutes away when you need them.

3. Excellent Schools and Higher Education

If you have children, or you’re interested in expanding your own studies, western Pennsylvania offers top-notch choices in education. The majority of Pittsburgh area public school districts are rated above average, and the area boasts an impressive roster of colleges and universities. Carnegie Mellon University, University of Pittsburgh, Duquesne University, Chatham University, and various Penn State campuses are just a few of the institutions of higher learning. There are a plethora of coffee shops whenever you want to meet with friends to discuss interesting coursework or topics of the day.

4. Culture & Entertainment

With access to the second-largest city in the state comes more than enough options to enjoy art, culture, sports, and entertainment. Pop into town on a Saturday afternoon to take in one of the many museums, then head for the walkable neighborhood of Shadyside where you can dine al fresco at one of many promising eateries. There are numerous music venues and concert events, and of course, don’t forget your season tickets for the Steelers (NFL), Pirates (MLB) or Penguins (NHL). 

5. Outdoor Recreation

In western Pennsylvania we are lucky to enjoy all four seasons – which means there are different outdoor activities to enjoy throughout the year! Local state parks offer safe and enjoyable ways to enjoy the fresh air, sunshine, and beautiful green landscapes. Head to Moraine State Park for water activities and beaches. Keystone State Park has plenty of spots for camping, hiking, and cycling. Kids will love Ohiopyle State Park with its waterfalls and natural water slides. And for the history buffs, stroll through Point Park State Park at the confluence of Pittsburgh’s three rivers. There’s always a new place to explore in western PA.

6. One of the Best Areas for Active Adults

We’re not just saying that because we believe it. The Pittsburgh metro area is nationally ranked on the Milken Institute’s list of best cities for successful aging. Researchers consider 83 indicators for successful age-related living, like wellness, financial security, and community engagement. Numerous opportunities for active adult lifestyle communities in western Pennsylvania means you’ll get to enjoy the best years of life in a beautiful home with outstanding amenities, surrounded by best friends and family.

No matter where you live now, moving to western Pennsylvania will feel like coming home. There’s no better place to enjoy a high quality of life, close to people you love, with endless activities. It’s all here, and the team at Weaver Homes can’t wait to share it with you.

For more information about building a new home in western Pennsylvania, please contact us at 724-609-5261.

Rightsizing Tips For the Best Experience

As you look around at your current home, you may realize that your wants and needs have changed. And you’re certainly not alone. Right now, you may prefer the comfort of a functional, one-level layout, over a multi-level home with rooms that are going unused. Or a private outdoor living space that connects you to the outdoors, as well as an open-concept main living area that connects you to family and friends.

Most of all, you might want a safe, secure home built with modern design that simplifies everyday living and provides comfort and convenience, no matter what life throws at you. As you enter the next exciting phase of your life, you might be ready to rightsize to a new home around Pittsburgh, where you have a peaceful, private lifestyle community that’s close to all of the attractions and opportunities downtown and beyond.

While the process of rightsizing your lifestyle may seem overwhelming at first, our team at Weaver Homes is here to guide you the entire way. We want this experience to be just as exciting and enjoyable as everything that comes next!

The Benefits of Rightsizing

Easy, Single-Level Living: In one of our single-level homes, you’ll get to experience the joy (and ease) of the “single life”! When you don’t have stairs standing in your way, your moments at home become so much easier, from doing laundry to packing luggage for a vacation. Gone are the days of worrying about accessibility issues or injuries — we build each home to be your trusted source of comfort and convenience.

First-Rate Amenities: Close your eyes and picture yourself spending your days in a peaceful, private neighborhood, where the activities you love are right at your fingertips and the people are as friendly as can be. A few of the amenities you’ll find at one of our lifestyle communities include a gorgeous clubhouse with a fitness center, a heated swimming pool, a patio with a grill, and so much more. Best of all, we take care of your home’s exterior maintenance for you, so you can spend all of your time enjoying the amenities outside your door without a worry.

Socialization Opportunities: The heart of any great community is the people that live there. All of our lifestyle communities are filled with neighbors who love to live the way that you do — and are always excited to have a conversation or join you for an activity. From social events to fitness classes, you have so many opportunities to engage with people just like you, and of course, make lifelong friends.

Staging Your Current Home to Sell

Once you’ve decided on your new home, your next task is to sell your current one. And this is where staging comes in! Effective staging isn’t just for show — in fact, staging your home the right way will ensure that you sell it as quickly as possible and maximize its sales price, especially in the current market. 

Make Quick Fixes: First thing’s first, look for the “quick fixes” — remove old area rugs to show off the hardwood floors, take off curtains and cleaning windows, change lampshades, replace light bulbs for optimal lighting, rearrange furniture, etc. Remember, even little adjustments make a big impact.

Decide on Furniture: When it comes to the furniture in your home, it’s essential to make a final decision on what should stay and what should go. Always make sure to keep color, style, and function in mind to make the most confident and informed choice, and really see your home through a buyer’s eyes.

Feel Fresh: The majority of potential buyers see your home in photos online before they see it in person, so everything you do in your home should be about that crucial first impression. Think about touch-ups that evoke a fresh and clean feeling like bright flowers, folded towels in the bathroom, and bowls of fruit in the kitchen.

Keep it Simple: Buyers want to look at your old home and envision making it their own. Packing anything that’s too “personal,” such as keepsakes, artwork, etc. make your home feel like an “open canvas” that’s ready to be personalized. Mirrors on the wall also help to create an open, inviting feel.

Preparing For Move-In Day

Packing and preparing for move-in day doesn’t have to be stressful! With a few helpful tips and tricks, the process will be easier and more enjoyable than you ever imagined. 

Keep What You Love: Emotional ties to items are normal. But remember that you don’t have to get rid of everything. Hand down precious items to your children and grandchildren, donate or sell what you don’t need, and keep what you love the most. 

Wrap Breakables in Clothing: Part of efficient packing and moving means saving as much as you can on the cost and space. In order to avoid excessive plastic, wrap breakable items in clothing. You won’t have to deal with plastic to throw away, and you’ll free up space for your boxes of clothes! 

Use Vacuum Storage Bags: You know how much room your towels, bedding, and pillows take up — but vacuum storage bags make packing them easier than ever. Once you pack the bags, you can use a vacuum to suck the air out of them, compressing them to a much more manageable size. This will maximize space (and minimize any hassle).

Pack Each Room into the Same Box: As you go through each room in your home, make sure to keep items in labeled, respective boxes. This way, when you go to unpack, you’ll know exactly where everything is and you won’t have to waste time rummaging through boxes.

Find the Right Moving Company: Of course, an incredible moving company can make a huge difference in your experience. Make sure to do your research online (take user reviews into consideration) and get a word-of-mouth recommendation if you can. Do this about eight weeks ahead of your move, so you can schedule the one you want without having to worry about them being overbooked. 

Save Space: There’s nothing more helpful than utilizing your space correctly. Use the pots and pans in your kitchen to hold smaller, loose items like a towel stand, spice containers, silverware, and more. Get creative — you can pack smaller items into their larger counterparts to save yourself the headache. 

Get Your Accounts Ready: Before the big move, make sure to cancel any subscriptions or accounts that you need to, and update your address on the services that will be transferred over to your new home. When all of your utility and home services are up to date, you can spend your time focusing on getting settled in. 

Unpacking After You Move In

The day has come — you’re all set to enjoy the comfort and relaxation ahead! Although unpacking and settling into your new home is a process, we have a few tips and tricks for making the transition as smooth as possible.

Bathroom and Kitchen First: Once you have your bathroom set up for your nightly routine, you’ll know you have something relaxing waiting for you once you’re finished with your first day of moving in. Next, start bringing the heart of your home to life and unpack your pots, pans, and other kitchen essentials.

Set Up WiFi: It’s easy to forget to check off a few details from your pre-move-in list. If you still have to set up your wi-fi, make sure to call your provider once you’ve set all your boxes down and are able to take a quick break. Your process will feel less stressful once you have this detail out of the way! 

Sort Dressers and Closets: It may seem like organizing your clothes in the beginning will slow you down, but once you have your things put away, you’ll free up so much physical (and mental) space to focus on everything else, from furniture placement to decor and everything in between.

Meet Your Neighbors: Your first day doesn’t have to be all about unpacking! Take a walk outside to get some fresh air and say hello to your neighbors. One of the best things about your Weaver Homes community is how much everyone cares about each other — your neighbors will be so happy to meet another friendly face and welcome you home.

If you’re ready for a new home that fits your wants and needs, keeps you comfortable, and opens a new world of possibilities every day, all of us at Weaver Homes can’t wait to meet you! For more information about our lifestyle communities in the Pittsburgh area, please contact us at 724-609-5261.

Quick-Delivery Home at the Villas at Spring Valley

They say that finding your new home is a marathon and not a sprint… but with us, you can get to the finish line right away. At the Villas at Spring Valley in Zelienople, a resort-style community where every day is both a new adventure and a relaxing vacation, we have a beautiful new home that is ready to be moved into shortly. This year, say goodbye to waiting for what you want and hello to your best days — starting now!

With our quick-delivery options, you can enjoy all the luxuries of new construction, from high-end, modern details to all-new everything from top to bottom, while getting to move in as soon as possible. Best of all, when you live at the Villas at Spring Valley, you get a social hub, a relaxing retreat, and a community of friendly, like-minded neighbors all in one. 

Featured Home

Available March 28

701 Spring Valley Drive

2 Beds, 2 Baths, 2-Car Garage, 1 Story

Plan: Canterbury

Price: $369,590

Features: Open-concept living area with a dining room, guest room, and living room, study, sunroom, fireplaces, vaulted ceilings, walk-in closets

When you choose one of our quick-delivery homes, you’ll enjoy an easy (and stress-free) personalization process that allows you to make your home entirely your own. Go ahead and bring your unique vision to life with a quick-delivery home.

New Home Community in Zelienople

At the Villas at Spring Valley, you won’t just enjoy a new home that fits you just right — you’ll enjoy a world of opportunities, just beyond your front door. With amenities like a gorgeous clubhouse with a fitness center and heated pool, a bocce court, a patio with a grill and lounge area, and so much more, you have endless options to fill your schedule, whether you want to socialize or simply relax. And because we take care of your exterior maintenance, from snow removal to lawn treatments, you can truly sit back, relax, and enjoy your time without anything standing in your way.

If you’re ready for your greatest adventure to begin, all of us at Weaver Homes can’t wait to meet you and get started! For more information about our quick-delivery homes, please contact us at 724-609-5261.

Home Design Trends For 2021

There’s no better time than the beginning of a new year to give your home a “mini makeover.” As you continue to enjoy more time at home, think about the areas that you’d like to spruce up a little (or a lot)! From two-tone kitchen cabinets to the Pantone colors of the year, there are so many fun trends to try out in your favorite spaces. Take a look at a few of our top home design trends for 2021.

Interior Home Design Trends

Two-Tone Cabinets: When it comes to your kitchen cabinetry, two is better than one! We love the eye-catching look of upper and lower cabinets in two different colors, and the best part is that you have a variety of unique combinations to try. Whether you enjoy soft, light colors like white and powder blue, or a “farmhouse chic” look with black and gold, you’re bound to find the perfect color scheme to reflect your style.

Statement Headboards: Nothing says “relaxation” quite like a beautifully designed bedroom. And nothing completes a well-rounded look than a statement headboard for the bed. This year, it’s all about vibrant, lively headboards that become a focal point in the room. From tufted and nailhead styles, to geometric patterns and bright colors, the options are endless. Plus, you can paint an accent wall behind it to complement the look!

House Plants: If you love the calming, natural aura of house plants, situate them throughout your favorite spaces, like your kitchen, bedroom, or living room. This is an easy way to spruce up your home without having to make a big adjustment. Try herbs, peace lilies, English ivy, pothos, Chinese evergreens, and more to brighten up your rooms. You can also add pops of color and personality with unique planters.

Grandmillennial: Yes, you read “grandmillennial” right! This up-and-coming style is all about comfort, and incorporating the “homey” decor pieces you might find in your grandparents’ home into modern spaces. The grandmillennial trend includes things like floral wallpaper, rattan coffee tables, antique paintings, scalloped lampshades, delicate china, crocheted throws, and more. Get creative and see what feels right!

Ultimate Gray and Illuminating (Yellow): Every year, Pantone announces a “color of the year” that embodies a unique message. For 2021, they chose Pantone 17-5104 Ultimate Gray and Pantone 13-0647 Illuminating (yellow), two uplifting colors that convey strength and hopefulness. These soft, modern hues work beautifully together (and apart) in any space — try using them as wall colors, in furniture accessories, throughout table displays, and more. These yearly colors provide endless opportunities to give your home the fresh, contemporary vibe you’re looking for in the new year. 

From all of us at Weaver Homes, we hope you have a fun time sprucing up your new Pittsburgh area home in 2021!

Featured Community: The Villas at Spring Valley

At Weaver Homes, we believe that the little things in life create the most happiness: a cozy seat by the fireplace, an afternoon stroll on a balmy day, a dip in the pool, a game of bocce with friends, morning coffee in your sunroom. When you live at The Villas at Spring Valley, all of the little things are a part of your daily routine — because you deserve nothing less than the best every day.

In this resort-style community in Zelienople, you’ll enjoy easy living in every sense of the word. From a modern, one-level home to first-rate amenities, you have endless opportunities to explore, play, socialize, and of course, relax. You can choose between our two most popular floorplans, the Canterbury and the Abbey, which come with bright open great rooms, cathedral ceilings, cheery sunrooms, and large windows for plenty of natural light — and just outside your front door, you have a world of new adventures waiting for you.

Zelienople New Home Community

Community Amenities: When you’re here, your schedule is wide open for fun and relaxation. A few of our community amenities include a beautiful clubhouse with community rooms, a patio with a grill and lounge area, a pool deck with lounge furniture, a bocce court, and more. Whether you love to socialize or simply relax, there’s always something fun to do and a friendly face to see.

Comfort and Convenience: The Villas at Spring Valley is a getaway from the outside world — a close-knit oasis where you have peace and quiet in a scenic country setting, and a close proximity to everything you need, from shopping, dining, and attractions to major routes and the airport. Step outside and take in the fresh air; when you’re here, you know you’re right where you belong.

Easy Living Features: We want to make your life as easy as possible, which is why we take care of maintenance outside of your home so you can sit back, relax, and experience all of things you want to do without a worry! Apart from snow removal of driveway and sidewalks, we also take care of grass cutting, lawn treatments, mulching, plant replacement, and installation of starter lawns and landscape beds. Plus, with low Butler County taxes, you can truly enjoy your time with more peace of mind!

Nearby Attractions: One of the best parts about living here is having everything you need — either right outside your door or just a quick drive away. From the area’s best golf courses and state parks to restaurants and stores, you’re always close to the attractions you love. Stop into your favorite local coffee shop, play a round of golf with friends, experience the fun of downtown Pittsburgh… you have every opportunity to fill your days with the things you love. 

There’s no better time than the beginning of a new year to make a fresh start — and there’s no better place to plant your roots than The Villas at Spring Valley. Best of all, we just opened up a brand new model home, so you’re welcome to tour and get a feel for how incredible life is here! For more information about purchasing a new home in Zelienople, please contact us at 724-609-5261. We can’t wait to meet you!