Agent Spotlight: Brooks Anderson

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

I started out in architecture college prep in high school and went to the University of Denver for a Business major and a leadership minor. After school, I worked for Lowes Hotels management training program, then moved to Chicago and worked for US Chrome in outside sales for their racing division. I moved back to Columbus in 2013 to get into real estate, I worked at Lindey’s across the street from V&R while getting my license and starting my business. For the first 5 years of my Real Estate Career, I built my business while assisting Jeff and Marilyn in being their third Realtor for showings, writing contracts, etc. Learning the business from the two best in town working with them on a daily basis taking what I could from each mentor something that I could apply to my own business and building my knowledge and expertise rapidly. I got thrown directly into the fire on a daily basis.

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

An architect. I loved building Legos without the instructions, being creative. I also liked electronics and technology, playing with the old computers as/and before the internet became a household staple with AOL.

Why did you choose to become a realtor?

I have a passion for communication, meeting people, and relating to anyone. My business is about building quality relationships and I really enjoy that piece. Real Estate is a people business as much or more than a home business. I worked in service or sales since I was 15 years old and never had a real 9-5 job. For me, being in a job where the effort you put in affects the income you get out was ideal because I knew I could outwork most and hold myself to a high standard.

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

I think it’s the quality of living most. Affordable, easy to get around, amazingly friendly people. Somewhere no matter that we are the 14th biggest city in the country I run into someone, or lots of people I know at every Crew Game, Cosi with my kids, a local restaurant, or at the grocery store. I moved back here to Columbus to be closer to family because after living in Denver and Chicago during the first decade of the 2000s, Columbus was growing and had a lot of things to offer now that I had gone out and searched for in those bigger cities.

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

We are really going through a sort of adolescence or growth spurt. There are so many shifts that are happening. People moving from out of state in mass. There is a shift towards local neighborhood centers like Bridge Park, Downtown Hillard, Creekside Gahanna, Main Street Bexley, Astor Park(around the new Crew Stadium) etc, that is adding exciting amenities to each individual neighborhood, there’s always something new and cool to explore in each pocket of Columbus. The appreciation over the last 10 years has been really extraordinary and I expect that to continue and provide equity for home Buyers and opportunities for home sellers as interest rates settle post-COVID.

Describe your typical day for us.

Get my two boys off to school, often start my day with a workout or studying the recent news or equity markets, and learn something new. Then before lunch start diving into growth pieces of my business and marketing. After Lunch is client follow-up, showings, and phone calls. If I’m not in appointments late afternoon, I’m always with my boys, playing outside with them or goofing around in their toy room. Then I cook dinner for my family 4-6 nights a week, cooking is the way I express creativity on a daily basis and take a deep breath from busy days. Get the boys to bed and then 3-5 nights during the work week I am back in my home office for a few hours to dive into a little bit more work while things are quiet and I’m not getting that many phone calls or emails.

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

I think the collaboration in a team of experts is what is the most important piece. We are a team of experts teaching each other, helping each other be better every single day. That makes us powerful, knowledgeable, and ahead of the market and provides more opportunities for us and our clients. We have agents in almost every market around town and therefore insights everywhere. Because of this I can sell and help my clients in every market, not just one small zip code.

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

Cooking. I love to learn new things and skills across the board but that translates to cooking especially because on top of that is a level of creativity. I rarely cook with recipes and I seek opportunities to learn new skills in the kitchen, experiment, and provide for others new food or meals. Get’s 1 or 2 new recipes a week, for better or worse lol.

Tell us a little bit about your family.

I have a beautiful wife and two young boys. My kids are turning 2 and 5 in October. We live in New Albany. We enjoy playground time, playing with neighborhood friends, sports inside and outside the house, going to COSI and The Franklin Park Conservatory. My wife is from New Orleans and we often go there for holidays including Mardi Gras every year to enjoy the culture and spend time with our friends and family down there. My wife and I have been married since 2016, as a couple we enjoy traveling, outdoor walks, trying new restaurants and dishes.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I enjoy family time, cooking, watching lots of sports(Soccer, football, F1, basketball).

What are three things you can’t live without?

My family, a sporting event to be excited about, and something new to get excited about (technology, food, something new to learn).
If we are talking about physical items: My iPhone (to explore the world and stay in contact), a pair of Jordans, and a car to get somewhere out of the house.

What do you love about your job?

I love the opportunities to work with all sorts of people and help them navigate one of the most challenging transactions of their lives, I get to make so many new clients/friends per year. My office is the city of Columbus, not just our German Village location or my home office, it changes every day and can be wherever I want. There is always something new to learn, every single day. It’s a constant new challenge that I wake up and attack every day. There is nothing boring, normal or consistent. I get to be all over the city weekly. I also enjoy owning my own business, working on the growth of a small business and everything that goes along with that, above and beyond showing houses, I have to know how to be a great marketer, investor, communicator, digital/print advertiser, deep knowledge about conditions of homes and sociological predictions.

Exploring Condos in Downtown Columbus

Considering a condo purchase in downtown Columbus, Ohio? You may be ready to embrace maintenance-free living or feel drawn to the vibrant atmosphere of downtown living.

Whatever the reason you are considering the purchase of a downtown Columbus condo, we are happy to tell you about a few of our favorites. Downtown Columbus offers a variety of diverse sub-neighborhoods each with a unique vibe that feeds into an overall energetic lifestyle and the same is true for the various condo communities available.

 

The Dakota

Located in the heart of the Short North Arts District at 845 N. High Street, The Dakota offers urban luxury condo living at its finest. Within walking distance to Goodale Park, restaurants, art galleries, boutique shops, it will be hard to find another condo with easier access to the entertainment, dining, and nightlife that downtown living has to offer.   

Sterling Lofts 

Located in the Brewery District at 544 S. Front Street, Sterling Lofts offers spectacular floor plans combined with low-maintenance urban living. Just a short walk from German Village, the restaurants, and entertainment venues in downtown Columbus, Sterling Lofts also offers easy access to parks and green space including Audobon Metro Park.  

Beck Place Condominiums 

Beck Place has been carefully designed for comfort, style, and convenience while honoring the rich history of German Village.  The townhome exteriors complement the traditional German Village facades familiar in the area while offering secured rear gated access. Beck Place Condos are located at 651 S. Grant Avenue and offer 20 unique floorplans with terraces that offer a piece of the outdoors. 

The Jackson on High 

The Jackson embraces the vibrant Short North lifestyle and stands on its own as a true work of art in the Arts District. Situated on the north side of the Shor North, The Jackson on High offers a sophisticated and luxurious living experience in one of the city’s most vibrant and dynamic areas. It is conveniently located near historical neighborhoods like Italian Village and Victorian Village and other major entertainment districts including Downtown Columbus, the Arena District, and The Ohio State University District.

 

The Condominiums at North Bank Park 

Built in 2007, The Condominiums at North Bank Park combines a spirit of old meets new. The tower features unobstructed views of the downtown area, with more modern finishes, while the industrial warehouse offers more traditional loft living. North Bank is a 20-story high-rise on the southeast end of the Arena District, located at 300 W Spring St.

Parks Edge  

Parks Edge condominiums feature 200 homes with breathtaking views of the downtown skyline and Scioto River. Residents enjoy a resort-style rooftop pool and hot tub, a fitness center, and more. 

The Buggyworks 

Located in the Arena District, The Buggyworks is a renovated historic warehouse originally developed by The Columbus Buggy Company in 1902. The 68 authentic urban loft condominiums are within walking distance of Nationwide Arena, Huntington Park, New Crew Stadium, The North Market, Goodale, and North Bank Parks. 

Miranova 

Miranova is a luxury, 27-story condominium tower located just south of downtown Columbus along the Scioto River. Towering 314 feet in the air, Miranova is one of the tallest residential buildings in Ohio. The unique design and rounded glass allow all of the main rooms of each home to have the best views of the city and skyline.

Waterford Tower 

One of the premier high-rise condominiums on the downtown Columbus riverfront, The Waterford faces a breathtaking view of the city’s riverfront skyline. It is steps away from the Scioto Mile, Arena District, and Theater District. 

Burnham Square 

Designed to look both suburban and metropolitan, Burnham Square offers some of the best amenities around. This lush yet urban community features everything from brick-paved boulevards and open plazas to world-class venues and downtown conveniences, which means you’ll never have to travel far for fun. 

Hartman Lofts 

The Hartman Lofts, at 150 E Main Street, is an urban oasis near the Arena District in the heart of downtown Columbus. The Hartman Lofts are residential condominiums in a historical building that was originally a hotel dating back to 1901. Evoking a modern feel with mahogany wood ceilings and exposed brick walls. This six-story building features high-end lofts which were converted from hotel rooms to condos in 2006. In addition, the location couldn’t be more convenient with ample amounts of shopping, nightlife, and major freeways minutes away. 

Neighborhood Launch 

Located at the corner of Fourth and Gay, this nine-block community features brand-new brownstones that come in a variety of floorplans. There is also ample green space and gathering areas, as well as secure parking. The goal of Neighborhood Launch is to offer more than just a cluster of homes—it’s to create a network of neighbors who live, work, and play together. 

At Vutech & Ruff, Cutler Real Estate, our commitment extends beyond merely finding you a property; we’re dedicated to making your home-buying journey a seamless and enjoyable experience. Discover the charm, convenience, and allure of condo living in Central Ohio through our blog, where expertise meets passion, and your dream home awaits.  

Agent Spotlight: Kate Sanders

Tell us a little bit about your path to becoming a realtor…Education background, work experience. 

I went to college both at Kent State University and The Ohio State University. I spent years in the hospitality industry and in Business to Business sales before becoming a licensed agent in 2015.

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

The President of The United States of America

Why did you choose to become a realtor? 

In 2014, I was looking for a career change and a friend said to me, “You are such a champion of this city, and you love helping people who are new to Columbus in finding the best neighborhoods, restaurants, etc. You should look into selling real estate”. I decided to research the industry, met with a few brokers, and took about a year to think it through before deciding to take the plunge and get my license in 2015. 

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

I live downtown and I love that there is always something to do in my free time whether it be taking a scenic walk down the Scioto Mile, meeting friends for dinner and drinks in the Short North, or spending a relaxing afternoon in Goodale or Schiller Park. 

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

Columbus has a very strong housing market and local economy. I am excited to see my city continue to grow and bring in talented professionals from around the country who are looking for an affordable city that has a lot to offer in the way of diversity, the arts, and business opportunities. 

Describe your typical day for us. 

I am a firm believer in having a morning ritual to start your day off right. I like to begin with a cup of coffee and one of my favorite podcasts. I am mindful not to look at my emails or social media first thing in the morning so that I have time instead to set intentions for the day and start my workday with a good attitude. I work throughout the day, taking time for a midday workout and often work throughout the evening – whether that be out on listing appointments, showings, or writing/negotiating an offer. No matter how busy my day is, I always end the day by writing down something I’m grateful for and adding it to my gratitude jar and reading before bed. 

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

Our team is a true family of top-tier agents who value each other and our clients. We truly care about the work we do and we spend a lot of time learning how to grow as real estate experts in an ever-changing market to best serve our Seller and Buyer clients. 

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

Albert Einstein once said, “I have no special talents. I am only passionately curious”  

Instead, I’ll tell you a fun fact that most people don’t know: I am obsessed with Jeopardy! and my dream is to one day be a contestant on the show. 

Tell us a little bit about your family. 

I have two elderly cats. That’s it lol 

What do you like to do in your spare time? 

I love to travel, hike, play golf, go to concerts, art exhibits, festivals and plays. I spend time volunteering in my community and run a fundraiser every year to provide both foster children and children in domestic violence shelters with Christmas gifts. 

What are three things you can’t live without? 

Books, music and coffee 

What To Expect in the Central Ohio Housing Market: Fall 2023 

When we talk about the housing market in Central Ohio, the common theme is around interest rates – higher rates. Sellers only want to sell if necessary, and buyers continue to have difficulty finding homes due to low inventory.  

It can be hard to understand what is happening right now, as well as what to expect as we head into the final quarter of 2023. Based on our years of experience, here are three trends we expect to continue in the Central Ohio housing market this fall. 

Sellers will have a decision to make 

Sellers are deciding if they really “have” to move. The frenzy of record-high housing prices we have seen over the last few years is starting to cool down as the market is trending toward stabilization. 

Keep in mind that many homeowners have established equity in their homes and are sitting on a mortgage payment with a record low of 2-4% interest rate. In fact, the Columbus Board of Realtors recently reported that between January 1 and June 30, homes, on average, appreciated by over 20%. And they will continue to increase in value, contributing to higher home prices. 

The good news is that we are seeing an increase in inventory and fewer bidding wars.  

Buyers regain negotiating power 

Now that the buyers have more options, they have gained some leverage. While still contingent on factors including financial situation, property, neighborhood, etc., buyers are beginning to see opportunities such as:

  • • Opportunities for negotiation 
  • • The ability to offer under-asking if they have cash 
  • • Less money out of pocket 
  • • Less waiving of appraisals, contingencies, etc.

Less focus on interest rates 

Interest rates are higher; there is no way to avoid that. But there are other ways to save money when buying a new home in the current market. Remember those opportunities for negotiation that we mentioned?  

Our seasoned real estate expert Jacquie Goumas Fox notes, “People have grown accustomed to the higher interest rates. They have accepted them for what they are and factor that into their budget.”  

The bottom line 

The supply/demand imbalance will continue in Central Ohio. With the news of Intel, there are plenty of economic drivers for business, and entertainment opportunities are abundant. The fact is that while we have always known that Central Ohio is a great place to live, the rest of the world is figuring it out for themselves and the desire to live here will remain high.  

When you are ready to have a conversation about buying or selling, turn to our trusted team at Vutech | Ruff to help you navigate the complexities of the Central Ohio real estate market. We go beyond the standard practice and work collaboratively and creatively to help you reach your desired outcome.

It’s one thing to find your dream home, it’s another to have your dream experience. 

The Vutech | Ruff Way

The Vutech | Ruff Way

With the real estate market on a never-ending “rollercoaster” of highs (interest rate hikes) to lows (low inventory), it is no wonder why it is so challenging to navigate the complexities of buying and selling a home. This is why we have stood by our #1 goal, and that is to make the process as easy as possible for our customers.   

We were recently asked the question; how do you best describe an experience with Vutech | Ruff brokerage? We believe it is these six points that differentiate us from others in the industry.   

  • Simply put, we know Central Ohio. From the schools to the communities to all those “little things” you just would not know about Central Ohio unless you have lived and worked here your entire life. Marilyn Vutech and Jeff Ruff have been partners since 1993 and boast a team of fourteen licensed agents who specialize in all areas of real estate, including buying, selling, investing, and relocation to Central Ohio. Inside track? We think so!  

  • In this challenging market, experience is KEY. Not only has Vutech | Ruff been serving Columbus, Ohio for over three decades, but we recently joined the Cutler Real Estate brand which has been helping people buy and sell homes for 75 years. Their core values emulate ours and our combined experience and expertise are unparalleled in the market.   

  • We offer effective strategies and superior services. Buying and selling homes looks a lot different now than it did just a few years ago. Technology and digital spaces have never played such an integral role in real estate, which makes the access to tools and resources that we have since joining the Cutler Real Estate brand simply invaluable. And, frankly, they are tools that others in our industry do not have.   

  

“The technology and support from Vutech | Ruff, and the constant commitment to excellence, gives them a very boutique-like feel without feeling antiquated.”  

  

  • Our combined team approach works. From open houses to showings to just “having each other’s back”, our commitment to one another and our clients comes across in everything we do. When asking our clients for words to describe our team, we were given “professional, down-to-earth, and very reliable.”  

  • We personalize…everything. We believe that listening to your needs first is what builds a strong partnership in which we can work best together. Things like requirements, budget, and lifestyle must be at the forefront of our goals.   

  • Dream homes are one thing. Your dream experience with the process is another. We understand the emotional toll that listing and/or searching for your home can take on you and your family. We hope to make the process as easy as possible- from home inspectors and mortgage brokers to lawyers and contractors, we can connect you with the best in the business.   

The real estate process is complex, and our goal is to make it smooth and stress-free for you. Our “all-in” approach and out-of-the-box thinking, along with our years of experience and expertise allow us to deliver the highest quality of service to you. This is how we describe the Vutech | Ruff experience.