More Than a REALTOR®
Built on trust, sharpened by experience, backed by real knowledge of Pittsburgh.
About James Lanigan
James Lanigan isn’t your average agent. He entered real estate just days before the pandemic brought the industry to a standstill, then built his business from the ground up in one of the most unpredictable markets in recent memory. With a background in finance, sales, writing, and psychology, James brings a rare mix of technical expertise and emotional intelligence to every client relationship.
A Steady Hand in Rough Waters
James Lanigan launched his real estate career at one of the most uncertain times in recent memory. Just days after he got his license, the entire Pennsylvania market shut down. What could have been a setback became the training ground where he sharpened his skills, immersed himself in contracts, and prepared for the wave of demand that followed.
When things reopened, James hit the ground running. He learned quickly, not because he had a choice, but because clients needed someone who could adapt and rise to the moment. That early trial by fire shaped how he operates today, with urgency, precision, and empathy.
James’s approach is grounded in preparation and driven by curiosity. From interest rates to design trends to the psychology of decision-making, he studies it all to better serve his clients. He believes in guiding people with clear information, consistent communication, and steady leadership, even in unpredictable markets. The goal is never to impress. The goal is to deliver.
Have Questions? Let’s Talk.
Whether you're just starting your search or ready to make a move, James is here to help. No pressure, no commitment, just straight answers and honest advice.
Frequently asked questions
Whether you’re buying your first home or selling a place you’ve owned for years, it’s normal to have a lot of questions. James is here to make the process clear, straightforward, and less stressful from the very beginning.
How do I get started if I’m a first-time buyer?
Start by having a conversation with a realtor who can explain the process and help you get pre-approved. James will guide you step-by-step, with no pressure.
What areas do you work in?
James serves clients all across the Pittsburgh region, including the city and surrounding suburbs.
Do I need to be pre-approved before touring homes?
It’s strongly recommended. Pre-approval shows sellers you're serious and helps you understand your true budget.
What makes you different from other agents?
James is known for being responsive, detail-oriented, and genuinely invested in his clients’ goals. He doesn’t just open doors, he helps you figure out which one to walk through.
What Clients Are Saying
The best way to understand what it’s like to work with James is to hear directly from the people he’s helped. From first-time buyers to unique property seekers, his clients consistently highlight his patience, professionalism, and commitment to getting it right.
James provided the highest level of professional services that I’ve experienced in the real estate industry. I was extremely pleased with wealth of knowledge and prompt responses to any/all of my calls, emails, and texts. James enabled my wife and I to make informed decisions while enjoying the journey of becoming homeowners.
Jonathan Erdman
Buyer
As first-time homebuyers, James guided us through the process every step of the way. He is personable, knowledgeable, thorough, and flexible as we discerned our wants and needs for our home. We were so fortunate to have worked with James and highly recommend him!
Lucy Lubinski
Seller
James is awesome. As new home buyers, my wife and I had a thousand questions about every step of the process. From the earliest part of our search through placing offers/inspection/closing the deal through setting up utilities, James answered each in detail or came back to us with the answer promptly when needed. His advice was impeccable. He never steered us wrong. If you are looking for an amazing realtor to partner with in finding your new home, you cannot go wrong with James!
Drew Klein
Buyer
James is fantastic! He spent an enormous amount of time helping us find and purchase the perfect home for our needs. He is personable and fun to be with as well as a good negotiator and helper for all the complications of real estate sale and purchase. If you use him, you will not regret your choice.
S Becker
Buyer
I knew James before we started the home-buying process. He was always present, kind, thoughtful, and understanding. These are big reasons why I reached out to him to support us in finding our family "our home". Throughout the home buying journey, James was all of the things listed above and more. He took time to understand our needs, was transparent and honest, and truly felt like a partner along the way. Buying our family a home was such a sensitive and emotional process; James will always hold a special place in my heart for his care, knowledge, and support throughout this time.
Jordan Ries
Buyer
Working with James took so much stress, uncertainty and confusion out of the home-buying process. He was always easy to get a hold of and answered our (many) questions quickly and clearly. I was very nervous about finding our new home on a short timeline, but with James’ help, we were house-hunting for only 8 days before finding the perfect house. His commitment to his clients is clear in that he negotiated our offer even while under the weather. I am so grateful for James’s expertise + great network of folks to help with every step of the process, and I couldn’t recommend him highly enough!
Lana Marucci
Buyer
Located in Bakery Square
James’s office is based at 6425 Living Place in Pittsburgh’s vibrant East End, just steps from Bakery Square and the heart of Larimer. This central location makes it easy to meet clients across the city, from Shadyside to Highland Park and beyond.
James Lanigan is a licensed real estate agent affiliated with Compass RE, a licensed real estate broker and an Equal Housing Opportunity provider. All material on this site is intended for informational purposes only. While the information is gathered from sources believed to be reliable, it is not guaranteed and is subject to errors, omissions, or changes in price, condition, or availability without notice. Property photos may be virtually staged or digitally enhanced and may not represent actual conditions. Clients are encouraged to verify all details independently. This site does not constitute legal or financial advice, and James Lanigan and Compass RE are not responsible for any inaccuracies.