From Resolution to Reality: What to Know if You Aspire to Buy, Sell a Home in the New Year

COLUMBUS, Ohio - As Ohioans start mapping out their goals for 2026, some might be setting their sights on a new address, whether that means buying their first home or putting a "For Sale" sign in the yard. If that's you, the Ohio Department of Commerce Division of Real Estate and Professional Licensing is sharing tips to help make this a New Year's resolution you can stick to.

"Buying or selling a home is one of the biggest financial decisions most people will make in their lifetime," said Division Superintendent Daphne Hawk. "The last thing you want to do is begin this process unprepared. Whether you're a first-time buyer or a seasoned seller, understanding your rights and responsibilities - and keeping some basic tips in mind - can help you avoid costly mistakes and protect your investment."

Whether you're hoping to buy or sell a home in the coming year, the Division encourages consumers to consider working with a licensed real estate agent to navigate this often-complex process successfully. In addition to understanding market trends, pricing strategies, and legal requirements, licensed real estate professionals have experience in managing paperwork and negotiations, which can help reduce the risk of potential mistakes during the transaction. That's important because one missed form or misunderstood clause can derail a transaction or expose parties to legal liability. In addition, real estate transactions are required to follow local, state, and federal laws regarding Fair Housing regulations. Without professional guidance, sellers may unknowingly engage in discriminatory practices, such as exclusionary advertising or unequal access to property showings, which can lead to penalties and lawsuits.

You can verify an agent's credentials by contacting the brokerage the professional claims to represent and asking them to verify they are with their brokerage and have an active license with the state of Ohio. Consumers should also ask for - and follow up with - references from previous clients, and also make sure they fully understand the terms of any contracts they sign.

Tips for Homebuyers:

• Contact lenders and get pre-approved for a mortgage and compare rates across multiple lenders to find a competitive mortgage rate. This will help you understand your budget and strengthen your offer.
• Keep in mind additional costs such as property taxes and insurance. Review property taxes of recently sold nearby homes to estimate potential costs.
• Schedule a home inspection with a licensed inspector to uncover any potentially hidden issues that could be costly down the road.
• Review all contracts carefully and don't hesitate to ask questions before signing.
• Research the neighborhood for schools, amenities, and future development plans to avoid surprises.

Tips for Home Sellers:

• Make necessary repairs and improvements to your home to boost its appeal and overall value.
• Stage your home to make a strong first impression on potential buyers and have professional pictures taken for the online listing.
• Be transparent about known issues with the property. This can help to avoid legal trouble later.
• Understand your obligations under Ohio law, including required disclosures.

The Division also licenses home inspectors in Ohio and encourages buyers to schedule a professional home inspection before finalizing a purchase. A qualified home inspector can identify potential issues that may not be visible during a showing and help buyers make informed decisions. Real estate agents can recommend a minimum of three licensed inspectors, but consumers can research other professionals to work with.

Consumers who believe a real estate agent, broker, appraiser, home inspector or unlicensed individuals have violated Ohio real estate law can file a complaint with the Division. Every complaint is reviewed and, if appropriate, assigned to an investigator. Investigators gather evidence, conduct interviews and submit findings for legal review.

For more information, to file a complaint, or to access consumer resources including the Division's Homebuyers Guide, visit com.ohio.gov/RealEstate.

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About the Division of Real Estate & Professional Licensing

The Division of Real Estate & Professional Licensing is part of the Ohio Department of Commerce. The department is Ohio's chief regulatory agency, focused on promoting prosperity and protecting what matters most to Ohioans. We ensure businesses follow the laws that help them create jobs and keep Ohioans safe. To learn more about what we do, visit our website at com.ohio.gov.