Central Ohio Real Estate FAQ

Many buyers in Central Ohio purchase with 3 to 5 percent down, and some loan programs require even less. Plan on roughly 2 to 4 percent of the purchase price for closing costs. With the Central Ohio median sales price around $350,000, homeownership is often more attainable than buyers expect.

Yes. Many Central Ohio buyers qualify for down payment assistance through the Ohio Housing Finance Agency (OHFA). OHFA programs can put a percentage of the purchase price toward your down payment and closing costs, and they can often be combined with conventional, FHA, VA, or USDA loans. Both first-time and repeat buyers may be eligible. I can connect you with a local lender who works with OHFA programs to find out what you qualify for.

Absolutely. In communities like New Albany, Dublin, Powell, Upper Arlington, Worthington, Westerville, and Lewis Center, desirable homes often receive multiple offers. A mortgage pre-approval shows you your real budget and tells sellers you are financially prepared. Central Ohio homes averaged about 25 days on the market this summer, so preparation matters.

Every market creates opportunities. Central Ohio continues to benefit from long-term job growth, including major investments from Intel, Anduril, Amgen, Google, and Meta, which supports strong housing demand. Buyers now have more inventory than a year ago, and the market still rewards well-prepared buyers who act decisively.

Most Central Ohio transactions close within 30 to 45 days after your offer is accepted, depending on your financing and inspections.

I prepare a detailed Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) using:

• Recent neighborhood sales
• Current competing listings
• School district demand
• Property condition and updates
• Buyer activity in your price range

In Central Ohio, pricing correctly from day one is one of the biggest factors in achieving the highest possible sale price.

Not always. I help sellers focus on the improvements buyers notice most:

• Fresh paint
• Landscaping
• Professional cleaning
• Updated lighting
• Minor repairs

These relatively inexpensive updates often generate a stronger return than major remodeling.

The average Central Ohio home currently sells in about 25 days, though highly desirable neighborhoods and well-priced homes often sell much faster.

Yes, but it is becoming healthier for both buyers and sellers. Inventory has risen to about 2.2 months of supply, which gives buyers more choices while staying well below the 4 to 6 months usually considered a balanced market.

A REALTOR® helps you:

• Price your home correctly
• Negotiate the strongest terms
• Navigate inspections and financing
• Manage deadlines
• Protect your legal interests
• Avoid costly mistakes

Buying or selling a home is often one of the largest financial decisions you will ever make.

Earnest money is a good-faith deposit submitted with an offer that shows the seller a buyer is serious. In the Columbus market, the amount usually varies based on the price point and how competitive the offer is.

A licensed inspector evaluates the home's structure, roof, HVAC, plumbing, electrical systems, foundation, and other major components before closing, so you know the condition of the home before you finalize the purchase.

It depends on the transaction, and I always put it in writing before you commit to anything. When you sell, you and I agree on my compensation in the listing agreement, and you decide whether to offer compensation to a buyer's agent to attract more buyers. When you buy, we sign a buyer's agency agreement that spells out my fee, and in many cases the seller still offers to cover some or all of it. However it works on your deal, you will know exactly how I am paid before you make any decision.