The Best Time to Buy a House in Ohio

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By Clever Real Estate Updated January 4, 2023

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Is there a best time to buy a house in Ohio? Yes — but the best time for you depends on your priorities.

In recent years, listing prices for homes in Ohio were lowest in January, with homes around $29,815 less expensive than the yearly average. In July — the month with the highest prices — the listing prices were $22,680 more than the annual average.

Mortgage rates, on the other hand, were lowest in December. But with interest rates on the rise, it pays to explore your options with a trusted mortgage provider to make sure you get the best rate possible.

Read on to find out which time of year is the best time to buy a house in Ohio.

Getting started

If you're interested in buying a home, the first step is to find an experienced local realtor. Economic conditions in Ohio can change quickly, and a knowledgeable realtor will keep you up to date on when and where to buy.

A free service like Clever Real Estate can match you with top agents from trusted brands like RE/MAX and Keller Williams. Interview as many agents as you'd like until you find the perfect fit, or walk away at any time with no obligation. Add your zip code below to request hand-picked agent matches today!

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The best time to purchase a home in Ohio

For buyers looking for a deal, January is the best time to buy a house in Ohio. In the Columbus market (one of the largest markets in Ohio, and a bellwether for the rest of the state), January sales typically close for a jaw-dropping 21.7% lower than the yearlong average.

Though it can be inconvenient to search for a home in the middle of winter, seasonal discounts of this size are almost unheard of. It's well worth it to time your offer for that January sweet spot.

Another January advantage? Homes have been on the market longer. Ohio listings average about 85 days statewide, but in January, that jumps up by around 36 extra days — a massive increase. Sellers know that the longer their home is listed, the less likely they are to sell. With this in mind, January sellers are usually eager to make a deal.

While these are general rules of thumb, it's important to remember that price trends can vary from city to city — and there may even be anomalies within certain neighborhoods. The best way to find a home in your target market is to connect with a local realtor. They'll help you navigate the ins and outs of your market and find the best time to buy a house in Ohio.

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The best places to buy a home in Ohio

Columbus

Columbus is not only home to The Ohio State University, but it's also a burgeoning tech hub. Median home values are far lower than the national average, making it an affordable place to buy a home. On top of that, the amenities that come with being a major college town (transit, dining, the arts scene) add a lot of value to an already attractive package.

Cincinnati

Known as "Queen City" or, in the 19th century, "the Paris of America" (no, really), Cincinnati is still thriving. The area is home to 10 Fortune 500 companies, two universities, and a vibrant arts scene, and it's also rated as one of the safest cities in the U.S.

Toledo

With a population just under 280,000, this midsize city boasts home values of less than half the national average, as well as a cost of living that's the third cheapest in the nation. Locals claim that the city has the best pizza in America (possibly) and that the local amusement park, Cedar Point, is the best in the world (probably).

Dayton

Dayton (population 141,000), like many of its fellow Ohio cities, offers incredible affordability. Home values are a third of the national average, though median household income is just over half the national average. The crime rate is moderately higher than the national average.

Akron

The unofficial rubber capital of America, Akron (population 198,000) is on the upswing. While home values here are moderately higher than some other Ohio cities' rock-bottom prices, the homes are still affordable at less than half the national average. With proximity to Cleveland but a small-town feel, Akron is a great option for families.

Four ways to get a great deal on a home in Ohio

1. Find a great Ohio real estate agent

Working with a local real estate agent is the best way to start your home search. An experienced realtor will use their market knowledge and negotiating expertise to help you find your dream home while staying within your budget.

2. Determine what you need and want in a house

Have a conversation with your agent about what you're looking for and how much you can pay. Get past generalities and into specifics.

Do you want a certain type of architecture? A fenced-in yard? Off-street parking? There’s a lot to decide on, but the more you do upfront, the more effective your home search will be.

3. Find a lender and secure financing

Unless you plan to buy your home with cash, you'll need to apply for a mortgage. For most home buyers in Ohio, interest rate is one of the biggest factors when choosing a lender. Doing some upfront research and comparing options to find the best rate could save you tens of thousands of dollars over the life of your loan.

For example, in Ohio a typical house is worth $163,000. Assuming a 20% down payment, if you took out a 30-year mortgage for 3.5%, your monthly payment would be $582. But if you shopped around and found a 3% mortgage, your monthly payment would drop to about $550.

4. Negotiate for the best possible price

When you find a property you’re seriously interested in, you'll proceed to the offer stage. Your agent will help you decide what initial offer to make, factoring in the sale prices of similar properties and the mindset of the seller.

They'll also attempt to negotiate the price down for you using any leverage they can find, usually based on the property's condition. Your agent knows that something as small as a leaky roof could get 10 grand knocked off the price.

If you're looking for a realtor, Clever can connect you with the top buyer's agents in your area for a free, no-obligation consultation.

Fill out our online form, and a Clever representative will reach out to get the process started and answer any questions.

👋 Find your perfect agent now!

Finding a great local realtor is the first step in making your home buying dreams a reality. Our free service matches you with top agents from trusted brands like Keller Williams and RE/MAX.

Enter your zip code to request hand-picked agent matches in minutes. Compare your options until you find the perfect fit, or walk away with no obligation. Try Clever's free service today!

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