Buying Your Next Home in Central Ohio

Yes, and there are several ways to handle it. Some buyers sell first, others buy first, and some do both with careful timing. The right approach depends on your finances, comfort level, and market conditions. We’ll talk through options and create a plan that minimizes stress.

It depends on your finances and how much uncertainty you're comfortable with. Selling first gives you a firm number and a stronger offer on your next home, but you may need a short-term place or a later move-out date. Buying first lets you move once, but you'll either carry two payments for a while or need an offer that depends on your sale. Most of the decision comes down to two numbers: what your home is likely to sell for and what you'll need for the next one. That's why I start there.

Yes. You can write an offer that's contingent on your home selling or closing. Sellers weigh it against offers without one, so it tends to land better when your home is already listed or under contract, or when the home you want has been on the market a while. Some sellers accept it with a clause that lets them keep marketing their home. I'll help you decide whether to lead with a contingency or get your home under contract first.

Often, yes. Some buyers use a home equity line of credit or a bridge loan for the down payment on the next home, then pay it off when the current home sells. Many lenders won't open a home equity line on a home that's already for sale, so that part needs to happen before you list. A lender can tell you what you qualify for, and I can help you weigh the timing against what your home is likely to bring.

You don’t have to be pre-approved to start browsing or having conversations, but I do recommend getting pre-approved before making an offer. It helps you understand your true buying power and makes your offer stronger when the time comes. I’m happy to connect you with trusted local lenders when you’re ready.

Market conditions change by location, price range, and even neighborhood. Some areas move quickly, while others offer more flexibility. I’ll give you honest insight into what to expect where you’re looking and help you build a strategy that fits the current market.

From offer to closing, most purchases take about 30 to 45 days. The search itself can vary widely. Some buyers find the right home quickly, others take more time. There’s no right or wrong timeline.

This is one of the most common questions buyers ask, and the answer depends on your personal situation more than the market headlines. Factors like your budget, how long you plan to stay in the home, and your overall comfort level matter more than trying to time the market perfectly.

I’ll help you look at current market conditions, interest rates, and your long-term goals so you can decide whether moving forward now makes sense, or if waiting is the better choice for you.

It depends on your loan type, price range, and goals. Some buyers are surprised to learn they don’t need 20% down. Others prefer to put more down to keep payments comfortable. Beyond the down payment, you’ll want to plan for closing costs and a small cushion for moving or early expenses. I’ll walk you through realistic numbers so there are no surprises.

Closing costs are the fees associated with finalizing your home purchase, separate from your down payment. They typically include lender fees, the appraisal, title work, recording fees, and prepaid items like homeowners insurance and property taxes.

Most buyers can expect closing costs to be around 2 to 4% of the purchase price, depending on the loan type and price of the home. Once you’re under contract, your lender will provide a detailed estimate so you know exactly what to expect. In many cases, seller credits can be negotiated to help reduce these costs.

I’ll review everything with you ahead of time so there are no surprises at closing.

Yes. Many buyers successfully purchase homes while self-employed or with irregular income. Lenders look at your overall financial picture, not just a single paycheck. That usually means reviewing things like your tax returns, income history, and business stability.

There are also loan programs designed specifically for self-employed buyers, including options that use bank statements instead of traditional pay stubs. The key is planning ahead and choosing the right lender.

I’ll help you connect with a lender who understands your situation and guide you through the process so you know your options early and avoid surprises.

Common surprises include inspection-related repairs, appraisal gaps in competitive situations, prepaid taxes and insurance at closing, and moving or setup costs after you move in. I make sure buyers understand the full picture early so nothing catches you off guard.

In Ohio, buyers sign a written agreement with their agent before touring homes. This can be for a set timeframe or a one-time showing, depending on your preference.

When you make an offer, the purchase contract allows us to request that the seller pay the buyer agent compensation at closing. This compensation is negotiable and not guaranteed, but in most cases, sellers agree as part of the overall transaction.

I’ll explain everything upfront and make sure you’re comfortable with the terms before moving forward, no surprises.

Both have advantages, and the right choice depends on your priorities. New construction can offer modern layouts and lower maintenance, while resale homes often provide established neighborhoods and more character. I help buyers compare total costs, timelines, and resale value so you can decide what fits your lifestyle and budget best.

Once you’re under contract, you’ll have the opportunity to schedule a professional home inspection. This helps uncover issues you may not see during a showing. Depending on the findings, we can request repairs, negotiate credits, or reassess how you’d like to move forward. I’ll guide you through each step.

Under current Ohio regulations, a written agreement is required before touring homes with a buyer’s agent. That said, you have options.

If you’re not ready to commit long-term, we can use a one-time or short-term showing agreement. If you’d like ongoing representation, we can set up a buyer broker agreement for a defined timeframe. Either way, we’ll review the agreement together so you understand what you’re signing and what it covers.

My goal is to make sure you feel comfortable and informed before moving forward, not locked into anything that doesn’t make sense for you.