Buying a home in Columbus
Find the right home, understand what it will really cost, and close with no surprises.
From first search to keys in hand.
You'll always know what's happening, what comes next and what it costs.
Search strategy
Neighborhoods, price range and must-haves mapped to your real budget, including taxes, insurance and upkeep.
Showings & walk-throughs
I point out the roof, the mechanicals and the foundation, the things that cost real money later.
Offer & negotiation
Offers based on comparable sales, written to win without overpaying.
Inspection to closing
I coordinate the inspection, appraisal, lender and title, and keep a shared timeline so nothing slips.
When your agent and your lender are in the same room, good things happen.
A smooth purchase depends on your agent and your lender working from the same timeline. I work closely with trusted Columbus lenders, including Jennifer and Sydney Carey of OriginPoint Mortgage, so pre-approval, appraisal and closing day stay in sync.
They make the money side feel easy, so you can focus on the fun part: finding home.
You're always free to choose any lender you like. I'm happy to work with yours.
Meet the team →Five steps to closing.
Most purchases in Central Ohio close 30 to 45 days after the offer is accepted. Here's how we'll get there.
Start your search →Get pre-approved
Know your price range and your monthly payment before you start touring homes. I can introduce you to local lenders.
Search & tour
A tailored search with new listings as they hit the market, and showings that fit your schedule, in person or by video.
Offer & negotiate
Price, terms, contingencies and closing date, structured to protect you.
Inspect & appraise
We review the inspection report together and negotiate repairs or credits where it makes sense.
Close
A final walk-through, the closing table and your keys. Then a list of trusted contractors for whatever comes next.
What will it cost each month?
An estimate of principal, interest, taxes, insurance and HOA dues. Change any number to see it update.
- Principal & interest
- $0
- Property tax
- $0
- Insurance
- $0
- HOA
- $0
- Down payment
- $0
Estimate only. It doesn't include PMI, which usually applies with less than 20% down. Tax and insurance vary by property, so check the county auditor's records and get a real quote. Talk to a licensed lender for actual terms.
Buying your first home in Ohio
Buying your first home is exciting, and there's a lot to learn. Here's what I go over with every first-time buyer.
How much cash you'll need
- Earnest money: often around 1% of the price, held in escrow and credited back to you at closing.
- Down payment: as little as 3% to 3.5% on many conventional and FHA loans. Some programs require less.
- Closing costs: lender, title and prepaid items, often 2% to 5% of the loan amount. Sometimes you can negotiate for the seller to cover part of them.
- Inspection and appraisal: paid early in the process, before closing.
Questions I ask about every home
- How old are the roof, the furnace, the air conditioning and the water heater?
- Is there any sign of water in the basement or crawl space?
- What are the property taxes, and is there a special assessment?
- How does the price compare with similar homes that sold nearby in the last six months?
- If you ever moved out, would it make a good rental?
Common questions
Do I need to sign an agreement to work with a buyer's agent?
Yes. Under current national rules, buyers sign a written agreement with their agent before touring homes. It spells out the services and how the agent is paid. I'll walk you through every line before you sign.
How long does it take to buy a home in Columbus?
Searching can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months. Once your offer is accepted, closing usually takes 30 to 45 days with financing.
Should I sell first or buy first?
It depends on your equity, your financing and the market. We'll look at options like contingent offers, bridge financing and rent-back agreements, and pick the one with the least risk for you.
Can you help me buy a home that could become a rental later?
Absolutely. That's my specialty. We'll look at likely rent, how strong demand is for that location, and which features tenants care about.