What to Expect from Your Home Appraisal

A home appraisal is an objective assessment of a property’s value, making it a critical step for both buyers and sellers. Beyond just establishing fair market value, a well-executed appraisal can significantly influence the success of a real estate transaction. Whether you’re securing financing, negotiating a sale price, or simply determining your home’s true worth, consider the following your go-to guide for understanding the home appraisal process.

The Impact of a Home Appraisal 

The appraisal is a professional estimate of your home’s value and can significantly influence the final sale price. If the appraisal matches the sale price, you’re likely in for a smooth transaction. But if the numbers don’t align, it could lead to renegotiation or even stall the sale.

What if the appraisal comes in lower than expected? 

Impact on Buyers: 

Financing Hurdles: Lenders won’t approve a mortgage for more than the appraised value. So, if the appraisal is lower than the sale price, buyers might need to either make a bigger down payment or renegotiate the price.

Renegotiation: Buyers may ask for a price reduction or request that the seller makes improvements to justify the original price. 

Impact on Sellers: 

Price Adjustment: Sellers might have to lower their asking price to match the appraised value to keep the sale on track. 

Deal Falling Through: If the seller refuses to adjust the price, the deal might fall apart, meaning the seller must start the process again with a new buyer or further negotiations.

 

What if the appraisal comes in higher than expected? 

Impact on Buyers: 

Getting a Great Deal: If the appraisal is higher than the sale price, buyers may feel they’re getting a bargain, which could make them more eager to close the deal. 

Future Value Potential: A higher appraisal can also signal good potential for the property to appreciate in value, which is a win for buyers. 

Impact on Sellers: 

Market Appeal: A higher appraisal can make the property more attractive to buyers, giving the seller more leverage in negotiations. If the market conditions are right, the seller might even consider raising the asking price. 

What key factors affect a home appraisal?

Location: Where your property is located plays a huge role in its value. The appraiser considers the quality of the neighborhood, proximity to schools, safety, local amenities, and even how close you are to major roads and transportation. 

Property Size and Layout: Bigger homes usually mean higher values, but it’s not just about square footage. The overall lot size, the type of floor plan, and how functional the space also comes into play. 

Condition of the Property: The age of your home, the materials used, and the quality of workmanship are big factors. Regular maintenance versus deferred upkeep can make a significant difference in the appraisal outcome. 

Comparable Sales (Comps): Appraisers compare your home to recent sales of similar properties in your area. They look at how your home stacks up in terms of size, style, condition, and features. 

Market Trends: The broader real estate market also impacts your home’s value. Economic stability, interest rates, and the balance of buyers to available homes all play a part. 

Upgrades and Renovations: High-quality upgrades and renovations can boost your home’s value. Green improvements like solar panels or energy-efficient windows are especially attractive to appraisers.

Remember, being prepared for the appraisal—by understanding the factors that influence it and knowing how to respond if the results aren’t what you expected—can make all the difference. By staying informed and proactive, you can ensure a smoother, more successful home buying or selling experience.

If you have any questions or need further guidance, the experts at Vutech | Ruff, Cutler Real Estate are here to help. We’re committed to making your real estate journey as seamless as possible.

Staging 101: 12 Hacks to Make Buyers Fall in Love 

At Vutech | Ruff, Cutler Real Estate, we know a thing or two about selling a home. We also know that staging your home can make a world of difference in how it’s perceived by potential buyers. A well-staged home not only highlights its best features but also helps buyers envision themselves living there. 
 
Whether you’re preparing for a big sale or just looking to make a strong impression, these tips will guide you in showcasing your home’s full potential. From lighting and decor to personal touches and standout features, let’s dive into the essentials of effective home staging.

Essentials of Effective Home Staging

Prioritize Lighting: The importance of good lighting can’t be understated. Natural light is your best friend, but we also recommend turning on all other lights in the home during a showing. Proper lighting can enhance the ambiance across your entire home, making it feel warm and welcoming. So, take this opportunity to replace any old fixtures or bulbs that have seen better days. Outside of overhead lights and larger fixtures, don’t forget to consider cabinet underlighting, front porch and backyard lighting, and motion sensor lights if you have them. 

    Stage an Office: With the rise of remote work, having a dedicated office space has become more important than ever. While a full room dedicated to an office is ideal, even carving out a functional workspace in a corner or nook can be effective. Buyers will appreciate the flexibility this adds to your home. 

      Don’t Skip the Deep Clean: For those who haven’t cleaned their ovens since moving in – this one is for you. Now’s the time to get serious about cleaning. Appliances, bathrooms, floors, carpets, and windows should be spotless. A deep clean can make worn items look new again and give buyers the impression of a well-maintained home. 

        Borrow, Don’t Buy: The right-sized furniture and decor can make a world of difference. Oversized pieces can make a room feel cramped, while too-small items can leave it feeling empty. If your current setup isn’t quite right, don’t rush out to buy new pieces. Instead, consider borrowing from friends or family or visiting secondhand stores for a quick refresh.  

          Declutter, Declutter, Declutter: While the right furniture and decor can enlarge a space and make it feel warm and inviting, less is still more when it comes to home staging. Too many items can be overwhelming, so aim for a clean, open look that allows potential buyers to imagine themselves in the space. The key rooms you should be paying attention to here should be your kitchen, living room, and closets.  

            Put Personal Items Out of Sight and Out of Mind: It’s time to tuck away those personal items. Buyers want to envision their own lives in your home, not yours. This includes family photos, personal collections, and any other items that are uniquely yours. 

              Keep it Neutral: More than likely, potential buyers aren’t going to share your exact taste in wallpaper and paint colors. It’s best to keep things neutral, so consider painting the walls a fresh white or light grey prior to any showings.  

                Don’t Skimp on Mirrors: Mirrors are a simple way to make any room feel larger and brighter. They reflect light and can create the illusion of more space, which is always a plus. 

                  Remove Valuables: We all like to think the best of people, but it’s wise to remove or securely store any valuables before showing your home. This includes items like Waterford Crystal and family heirlooms—better safe than sorry! 

                    Hide Wires: Unsightly wires can be a distraction. Hide them with strategically placed plants or other decor items to keep the focus on your home’s best features. 

                      Remove signs of pets: While your pet’s toys and belongings might seem charming to you, they can be a distraction for potential buyers. Some may have allergies or simply prefer a pet-free environment. Before showings, clear out any pet-related items such as crates, food bowls, and litter boxes. Also, ensure your furry friends have a safe and secure place to stay during showings. 

                        Highlight the ‘Wow’ Factor in Every Room: Every room should have a selling point. Whether it’s a cozy fireplace, an elegant chandelier, or a spacious kitchen island, make sure to showcase the unique elements that make each room special. 

                          Successfully staging a home requires more than just a few cosmetic changes—it involves understanding what makes a space truly inviting and appealing to buyers.

                          At Vutech | Ruff, Cutler Real Estate we bring extensive knowledge of the Columbus area and a deep understanding of what works – and what doesn’t – in home staging. Our experience has taught us how to highlight your home’s strengths and address potential pitfalls, ensuring that your property stands out in the market.  

                          With our expertise, we can ensure your home makes a lasting impression and you achieve the best results in your home sale.  
                           
                          Ready to sell? Contact our team today! 

                          Riding for a Cause: Pelotonia 2024

                          At Vutech & Ruff | Cutler Real Estate, our team is more than just real estate experts. We’re a family, deeply rooted in our Columbus community, and dedicated to making a difference. We’re especially proud to highlight two of our extraordinary team members, Marilyn Vutech and Kate Giller, who are once again participating in Pelotonia—a cause close to our hearts.

                          Marilyn Vutech 

                          Marilyn Vutech is no stranger to Pelotonia. In her 13th year of participating, Marilyn’s passion and dedication continue to inspire us all. This year, she will ride 50 miles to honor the countless individuals who have faced the challenges of cancer.  

                          “I ride for my mom, son-in-law, riding buddy, Mary, my aunts and for all those who’ve had cancer and are in remission, living with cancer or are now cancer free. I ride for those who’ve lost that fight- there are, very sadly, too many to name.” 
                           
                          Having raised over $22,000 since her first race, Marilyn’s commitment has played a crucial role in the fight against cancer, greatly contributing to ongoing research and support for those affected.

                          Kate Giller 

                          Kate Giller’s journey with Pelotonia began in 2009, and this year marks her 16th consecutive year of riding 100 miles or more. Kate’s motivation has evolved from the athletic challenge to a deep dedication to the cause, citing that cancer has touched nearly all of her family or friend groups. 

                          “I started this journey in 2009 for the athletic event, and stayed committed because I was motivated by the cause. We all are impacted by cancer!” 
                           
                          The ride itself has generated over $283 million since its inception, making a significant impact in the battle against cancer. To date, Kate has personally raised over $75,000 for cancer research. This year, she hopes to add an additional $10,000 to that total. Like Marilyn, 100% of the funds raised by Kate’s ride will be donated to cancer research, directly contributing to the fight against this disease. 
                           
                          “Together, let’s CRUSH CANCER and change the outcome when someone you love is diagnosed!” says Kate.

                          Join Us in Supporting Pelotonia 

                          We invite you to support Marilyn and Kate in their incredible efforts. Your donations go directly to cancer research, bringing hope and change to countless lives. Visit Pelotonia.org to browse the Impact Report and be inspired by the progress made.  
                           
                          To support Marilyn, click here to donate to her ride or visit Pelotonia.org, search ‘donate’, and type in Marilyn Vutech. 
                           
                          To support Kate, click here to donate to her ride or visit Pelotonia.org, search ‘donate’, and type in Kate Giller. 
                           
                          At Vutech & Ruff | Cutler Real Estate, we believe in the power of community and the strength of coming together for a cause. Together, we can make a difference and continue to support the fight against cancer.  
                           

                          The Preston Centre: The New Must-See In Columbus

                          Vutech | Ruff team members were thrilled to attend the recent open house for the Preston Centre, formerly the PNC Tower on East Broad Street. Hosted by Columbus Landmarks, the event showcased the innovative adaptive reuse of the building, now a bustling hub of mixed-use spaces including residential, office, and retail. The project is Downtown’s largest transformation yet of an office building into residences.

                          We were pleased to support our good friend, Jeff Edwards, president and CEO of The Edwards Companies, which developed the project. More than seven years in the making, the project involved converting floors 10 through 23 of the 24-story office tower into 105 apartments. 

                          During the open house, Marilyn Vutech, Anna Vutech, and Emily Ahlering had the opportunity to tour the luxury apartments with incredible views of the city, gorgeous common area spaces that include an art gallery, game room, workout facility, and beautiful outdoor garden-itself an incredible piece of art.

                          When finished, the building is expected to include up to five restaurants and bars, including Cameron Mitchell’s new Butcher & Rose.

                          Closing Costs Explained

                          When you’re buying a home, there’s a lot more to factor in beyond just the purchase price. One of the crucial considerations is closing costs. But what exactly are these costs, and why should you care?

                          What are closing costs?

                          Closing costs refer to the various fees and expenses you incur when finalizing the purchase of your new home. They typically range from 2% to 3% of the loan amount and cover essential services like loan origination fees, title insurance, attorney fees, and more. These costs matter because they can significantly impact your overall budget for buying a home. 

                          Understanding and preparing for closing costs is vital because they ensure the legal transfer of property ownership and protect both you and the lender. By budgeting for these expenses upfront, you can avoid last-minute financial surprises and smoothly navigate the home-buying process with confidence.

                          In Ohio, closing costs usually include the following:

                          • Loan Origination Fees: These are charged by your lender for processing your loan. They typically cover document preparation, underwriting, and other administrative services.

                          • Appraisal Fees: Before a lender approves your loan, they need to know the home’s value. An appraisal fee pays for a professional to assess the property’s worth.

                          • Title Insurance: Ohio requires both an owner’s title insurance policy and a lender’s title insurance policy. This ensures that both parties are protected against potential claims against the property.

                          • Attorney Fees: While it’s not mandatory to hire an attorney for closing in Ohio, it’s highly recommended. An attorney can help review the title work, handle any legal issues, and ensure that the closing documents are accurate.

                          • Recording Fees: Local governments charge a fee to officially record the sale of the property, making the transfer of ownership public record.

                          • Transfer Taxes: Ohio imposes a transfer tax on real estate transactions, which is typically $1 per $1,000 of the sale price. Some counties may have additional transfer fees.

                          • Settlement Fees: Also known as closing or escrow fees, these are typically split between the buyer and the seller in Ohio. These fees cover the cost of the closing agent or title company managing the closing process.

                          • Costs associated with property taxes, homeowners’ insurance, mortgage interest, and the home inspection are typically paid upfront rather than at closing.

                          Who Pays Closing Costs in Ohio?

                          In Ohio, who pays closing costs can vary and is often negotiable. Typically, the buyer pays for loan-related fees. Title fees, on the other hand, are sometimes split between the buyer and seller, but in Central Ohio, the seller often pays for it entirely. If the selling isn’t covering the costs at closing, you will be required to pay all costs in the form of “guaranteed funds” such as a cashier’s check or wire transfer. Your escrow office or mortgage lender will notify you of the exact amount.

                          Closing costs are an essential part of buying a home, and knowing what they are and planning for them can make your journey to homeownership much smoother and less stressful. Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll be ready to close on your new home with confidence.

                          At Vutech | Ruff, Cutler Real Estate, we’re here to make your home-buying or selling experience seamless and enjoyable. We recognize that every buying and selling situation is unique, and we tailor our approach to fit your specific needs and make the whole process as easy as possible for you.

                          Contact us to get started! 

                          What to Expect During a Home Inspection

                          Purchasing a home is incredibly exciting, but before you celebrate it’s important to do your due diligence to determine the overall condition of the home. A home inspection does just that.

                          Conducted by a licensed professional, a home inspection offers valuable insight into a home’s condition, identifying any “reasonably discoverable” problems with the home, such as a leaky roof or faulty plumbing. With this information, buyers can make informed decisions, negotiate repairs or price adjustments, and, if done proactively by the seller, can help them address issues before listing the property.

                          What to expect during a home inspection

                          A home inspection is a visual assessment of a house’s physical structure and mechanical systems, including the roof, ceilings, walls, floors, windows, and doors. Generally, the home inspector will check that major appliances are functional, examine the heating and air-conditioning system, assess plumbing and electrical systems, and poke around the attic and basement. 

                          During a home inspection, a professional examines the condition of the property, ensuring it is safe, structurally secure, and not a potential money pit with a long list of concealed, but necessary, repairs. To do this, the inspector will look at various aspects of the property, such as: 

                          • Exterior:
                          • Roof condition 
                          • Siding, trim, and exterior paint 
                          • Foundation and grading around the house 
                          • Driveways, walkways, and steps 
                          • Decks, porches, and balconies 

                          • Interior: 
                          • Walls, ceilings, and floors for damage or defects 
                          • Doors and windows for proper operation and sealing 
                          • Stairways and railings for safety

                          • Structural Components:
                          • Foundation integrity 
                          • Basement and crawl spaces for moisture and damage 
                          • Attic for insulation and ventilation

                          • Systems and Appliances:
                          • Electrical system, including outlets, switches, and circuit breakers 
                          • Plumbing system, including pipes, fixtures, and water heater 
                          • Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems 
                          • Kitchen appliances for functionality

                          • Safety Features:
                          • Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors 
                          • Fireplaces and chimneys 
                          • Garage doors and automatic openers

                          What a home inspection does not include

                          Home inspections, while comprehensive, typically don’t cover certain areas and systems, such as:

                          • Underground Storage Tanks: Inspectors usually do not assess these due to the difficulty of access and the need for specialized equipment. 

                          • Lawn Irrigation Systems: These are often excluded because they require specialized knowledge and equipment to evaluate properly. 

                          • Septic Systems: Evaluating septic systems requires a separate, specialized inspection. 

                          • Swimming Pools and Spas: These may not be covered in a standard inspection and might need a separate evaluation.

                          • Asbestos, Radon, and Lead Paint: Inspectors typically do not test for these hazardous materials; specialized testing is required.

                          • Pest Infestations: While inspectors might note visible signs of pests, a thorough pest inspection usually requires a pest control specialist. 

                          • Chimneys and Fireplaces: Inspectors may check for basic functionality but often do not conduct in-depth inspections of chimneys and flues. 

                          • Cosmetic Issues: Minor aesthetic flaws, such as paint chips or small cracks, are generally not the focus of a home inspection unless they could point to a bigger problem, such as a ceiling water stain.

                          For these areas, buyers may need to arrange for additional specialized inspections to get a complete assessment of the property. 

                          When all is said and done, the home inspector will document their findings and provide a detailed report highlighting any issues or potential problems. This report can help you make informed decisions about the property, negotiate repairs, or plan for future maintenance. Any serious issues that arise should be brought to the attention of the seller, and your agent will help you negotiate who should take care of the problems.  

                          When you work with Vutech | Ruff, Cutler Real Estate, you can rest assured that you have a team behind you ready to help with any questions you might have throughout the buying or selling process, including the home inspection.

                          Agent Spotlight: Jacquie Goumas Fox

                          Tell Us a little bit about your path to becoming a Realtor:

                          My parents moved to Ohio when I was a senior in high school. When they were on their house hunting trip I came along and as upset as I was about moving, leaving my friends, etc. That trip stayed with me. I was fascinated with the agent and the process of looking at homes as I had never moved before. I went off to college and after I came home (without a clue as to what I was going to do) I had a conversation with my parents and my father reached out to his Realtor and asked her to give me a shot. Little did I know at the time that they had no desire to take a chance on a 22-year-old kid, as at that time the industry was made up of older people, retirees, and part-time agents. I became licensed at 22 years old and haven’t looked back since.

                          I have worked in residential Real Estate, Commercial Real Estate, and for 15 years I owned a Title Agency, but came back to residential sales, as that is where my heart has always been.

                          Flashback as a 10-year-old kid. What did you want to become?

                          A Nurse, as I always wanted to help people. Little did I know then that is exactly what I get to do every day, just in a different capacity.

                          What’s your favorite thing about living in Central Ohio?

                          The seasons. Ohio is beautiful all of the time! Each season brings its own beauty.

                          What excites you most about the Central Ohio Housing Market?

                          The growth and the direction we are going. It literally changes every day. It continues to grow and improve; the appreciation values are incredible, and we don’t see it slowing down. It’s a great place to invest.

                          Typical Day:

                          There is nothing typical about my days as no 2 are the same the only consistency is my mornings and evenings:

                          Wake up between 5 and 6 am, take care of my cats and plants, meditate and exercise, in the shower, and be ready for the day coffee in hand by 8:00 am.  My typical day morning consists of Social Media posting/film/editing, database work for my past, present, and future clients, and Client outreach or preparation work. The middle of the day varies depending on what is going on but showing homes, attending inspections, closings, walk-throughs, listing appointments, working with agents in the office, marketing, and the list goes on! My evenings usually consist of cooking dinner, volunteer work, and time with friends and family.

                          What sets Vutech Ruff apart from other brokerages:

                          The people. Our team is an amazing group of individuals who are collaborative, humble professional, and hardworking. Always willing to lend a hand to help. We also have a lot of fun together; weekly office meetings always involve a lot of laughter.  It’s amazing when you can work and laugh with the same group of people.

                          Special Skills and Talents:

                          I love to cook and bake. I’m known to bring a great from-scratch cake or throw a wonderful dinner party.

                          Tell us a little about your family:

                          I’m lucky enough to have a blended family. I have 1 amazing son and 3 stepkids and 1 daughter in law.

                          Although they are all grown and on their own, my favorite times are when we are together.

                          I have amazing parents who are in great health and that I love to spend time with and a wonderful brother and his family. Our family gatherings are some of the highlights of my life.

                          In the fall my brother and I go away for a week with my parents every year, just the 4 of us like when we were kids. Spouses and Kids are not invited. We head to the beach and just spend quality time with each other. This year will be our 10th anniversary trip and we cherish every moment of it. I consider my family my greatest accomplishment.

                          In my spare time:

                          I honestly don’t get a lot of spare time but (Don’t laugh)I love to clean! There is just something so satisfying about working on a great home project and completing it.

                          Three things I couldn’t live without would be:

                          My Family

                          My Cats

                          My new Jura Coffee Machine. (I’m obsessed)

                          Downsizing for Retirement: Do or Don’t?

                          Retirement is a major life change that may lead you to reevaluate your priorities, and how they might impact where and how you live. If your kids are grown and you no longer need as much space and the upkeep is becoming too much (or just isn’t how you want to spend your time), you might be asking yourself: should I downsize?

                          The truth is there is no one-size-fits-all answer; choosing to downsize is a big decision that requires careful consideration. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

                          The Financial Advantage

                          On the one hand, downsizing can offer financial freedom and flexibility. By selling a larger home, you can reduce your mortgage or eliminate it, freeing up funds for travel, hobbies, or simply enjoying retirement to the fullest. And you’re not just shrinking your living space; you’re also downsizing the accompanying utility bills, property taxes, and maintenance costs. This can be especially beneficial for retirees on fixed incomes who need to carefully manage their expenses.

                          However, downsizing after retirement doesn’t always guarantee financial gains. While selling your home and moving to a smaller place can potentially free up equity and reduce living expenses, you still need to consider factors like…

                          • The Real Estate Market: The value of your current home and the affordability of smaller properties in your desired location can fluctuate based on market conditions. Downsizing during a seller’s market might yield higher returns, while doing so in a buyer’s market could result in lower selling prices.  
                             
                          • Transaction Costs: Selling your home involves transaction costs such as real estate agent commissions, closing costs, and potential capital gains taxes. These expenses can eat into any potential financial gains from downsizing.  
                             
                          • Housing Costs: While downsizing can reduce certain housing-related expenses like mortgage payments, property taxes, and maintenance costs, it’s essential to consider other factors like HOA fees, insurance premiums, and utility costs in your new location.  
                             
                          • Quality of Life: Downsizing shouldn’t be solely about financial gains. Consider how the move will affect your lifestyle, proximity to family and friends, access to amenities, and overall happiness in your new home.  
                             
                          • Investment of Proceeds: If you’re planning to invest the proceeds from selling your larger home, consider the potential returns and risks associated with your investment strategy.  
                             
                          • Long-Term Goals: Evaluate how downsizing fits into your long-term financial goals, such as retirement savings, healthcare expenses, and legacy planning.
                             

                          Practical Benefits

                          Downsizing also presents an opportunity to simplify life and declutter. After decades of accumulating possessions, many retirees find that downsizing forces them to evaluate what truly matters to them, let go of unnecessary belongings, and create a living space that is more manageable and easier to maintain.

                          Navigating the Downsizing Process

                          Ultimately, the choice to downsize depends on your individual preferences, priorities, and circumstances. It’s essential for retirees to carefully consider their financial situation and lifestyle goals to make a choice that aligns with their priorities for their golden years.  

                          If you do choose to downsize or are at least considering it, the team at Vutech|Ruff team is here to help. Our local real estate agents can help you set the right price for your current house when you sell, find the home that best fits your needs, and understand what you can afford at today’s mortgage rate. With our expert guidance, you can navigate the downsizing process seamlessly and transition to your new home with ease. 

                          Celebrating Pride in Columbus

                          Happy Pride Month, Columbus! At Vutech | Ruff, we are proud to live in a city that is so welcoming and inclusive to the LGBTQ+ community. There are countless ways to celebrate Pride in Central Ohio. In fact, you can celebrate every weekend in June with the number of celebrations occurring. Let’s take a look! 

                          Pride Celebrations Throughout Columbus

                          May 31: Bexley Pride Walk: 5:30 PM 

                          June 1: Delaware Ohio Pride Fest 24: 10 AM – 5 PM at Boardman Art Park 

                          June 2: Stonewall Columbus Pride Brunch Fundraiser at Columbus Athenaeum:11 AM – 1 PM 

                          June 2: Worthington Pride: 12 PM – 5 PM 

                          June 3: City Hall Pride Illumination Ceremony: 7:30 PM 

                          June 6: Pride New Albany Day (includes Paws for Pride, a Pet Costume Contest): 4 PM 

                          June 8: Hilliard Pride: 12 PM – 3 PM 

                          June 9: Upper Arlington Pride: 1 PM – 5 PM 

                          June 14-15: Stonewall Columbus Pride Festival & Resource Fair at Goodale Park: 10 AM – 5 PM 

                          June 15: Stonewall Columbus Pride March: 10:30 AM 

                          June 22: Reynoldsburg Pride: 4 PM – 8 PM 

                          June 22: Westerville Pride Event: 5 PM – 8 PM 

                          Grab your loved ones and support, uplift, and celebrate the LGBTQ+ community all month long! 

                          Agent Spotlight: Edward Searle

                          Tell us a little bit about your path to becoming a realtor.  

                          Prior to real estate, I was a full-time dance studio owner, specializing in Irish Dancing and traveling the world conducting dance workshops. Before that, I was a dancer touring the world and worked in direct sales. I was educated at King Edward VI Grammar School for boys in Birmingham.

                          Flashback to when you were 10 years old. What do you want to be when you grow up? 

                          At 10, I really had no idea, honestly. I was just enjoying being a 10-year-old!

                          Why did you choose to become a realtor? 

                          I absolutely love property and genuinely have a passion for helping others. I believe combining the many years of experience I had in competitive dance, which had taught me great discipline and what it takes to win, along with that love I have for property, would be a great recipe for success in Real Estate.

                          What is your favorite thing about living in Central Ohio? 

                          I love that Columbus has so many charming neighborhoods. I enjoy being in easy reach of other destinations within the US. The people here are welcoming and friendly!

                          What excites you the most about the Central Ohio housing market? 

                          The absolutely fabulous and ongoing renovations of beautiful historic homes throughout Central Ohio.

                          Describe your typical day for us. 

                          My day always starts with a hearty glass of lemon water or cup of tea to kick start the day, followed by a walk around the neighborhood with my two Boson Terriers. I usually then get ready to go into the office and start tackling my to-do list which often involves checking up on things for the buyers and sellers I am working with. I typically work out early in the afternoon, 3 days per week, then have my lunch. Every day is different but from 3 pm onwards I often meet new clients, attend listing appointments, or show homes. My day ends with writing out my to-do list for the following day and a nice read of the newspapers on the phone in bed!

                          What sets Vutech | Ruff, Cuter Real Estate apart from other brokerages? 

                          We are a very down-to-earth, hard-working bunch who are consistently in the top handful of real estate teams throughout central Ohio.

                          What special skills or talents do you have that others may not know about? 

                          I am a former World Irish Dance Champion (2005) and the winner of every major Irish Dance title around the World. I have had the opportunity to travel the World in various Irish Dance productions such as Riverdance, as well as conducting dance workshops in all four corners of the globe from the age of 18. As a young instructor, I trained the first-ever female World Irish Dance Champion from Columbus and worked alongside my partner Byron to build a dance studio from, just 6 students to almost 175.

                          Tell us a little bit about your family. 

                          My mom and brother live in the UK. My partner Byron’s family are all here in Columbus.

                          What do you like to do in your spare time? 

                          Travel, volunteer in my local community, and sit on my porch!

                          What are three things you cannot live without? 

                          Dogs, pen and paper, traveling to London.