Thank You for Making Our Village Lights Celebration Magical!
We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who joined us for the Village Lights celebration this year! Your smiles, laughter, and holiday cheer made the evening truly unforgettable.
For those who took photos with Santa, you can download your pictures here:
Don’t forget to share your photos on social media. Be sure to tag @VutechRuff on Instagram or @VutechRuffCutler on Facebook for a chance to win our festive giveaway basket. We can’t wait to see your posts and relive the holiday magic through your eyes.
When it comes to purchasing a home, even the most seasoned buyers can stumble at times. At Vutech | Ruff, Cutler Real Estate, our team of highly qualified licensed agents has seen it all. We’ve helped countless clients navigate the complexities of the real estate market, and we want to share some of the top homebuying mistakes we’ve encountered. By being aware of these pitfalls, you can approach your home purchase with confidence and clarity.
Putting Off Pre-Approval: One of the most common mistakes we see is buyers starting their home search before securing a pre-approval. While it’s tempting to dive right into house hunting, getting pre-approved for a mortgage should always be your first step. Pre-approval not only determines what mortgage amount you qualify for but also shows sellers that you’re a serious, legitimate buyer. Particularly in a hot market where multiple offers are common, this simple step can give you a competitive edge, will ultimately save you time, and will help you focus on homes that fit your budget.
Focusing Too Much on Aesthetics: A beautifully staged home or the latest design trends can be captivating, but focusing too much on a home’s appearance can lead you to overlook more critical aspects. Elements like the home’s structure, layout, and location should take priority. For instance, a home with a less-than-ideal floor plan or in a location that doesn’t suit your lifestyle may lead to regret, no matter how stunning the interiors are. Remember, cosmetic changes like paint color, fixtures, or flooring can be modified to your taste over time, but factors like the foundation, overall layout, and neighborhood are much harder, if not impossible, to alter.
Spending Too Much: It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of finding your dream home, but it’s important to keep your budget in check. (Remember #1 above?) Stretching your finances to afford a home that’s just a bit out of reach can lead to long-term financial strain, turning what should be a joyful experience into a stressful one. We often see buyers focusing too much on the home’s aesthetics or size, without considering the ongoing costs like property taxes, maintenance, and unexpected repairs.
Not Considering Future Resale Value: When buying a home, it’s essential to think not just about your current needs but also about the home’s future resale potential. Buyers who overlook this may find it harder to sell their home later. Factors like the neighborhood’s growth, school district quality, and nearby amenities all contribute to a home’s resale value.
Chasing Perfection: It’s natural to want a home that checks every box on your wish list, but waiting for the perfect property can lead to missed opportunities. The notion of a flawless home is more fantasy than reality, as even a seemingly perfect property can have its imperfections. Instead, focus on key essentials like location, structural integrity, and potential for future improvements.
Not Working with a Local Real Estate Agent: The value of partnering with a knowledgeable local real estate agent cannot be overstated. With a wide range of listing inventory and a vast referral network of contractors, stagers, photographers, videographers, and mortgage lenders, our team is well-equipped to guide you through every step of the home buying process. Our collective experience includes not just real estate transactions, but also real estate investing and custom new builds, ensuring you receive comprehensive advice tailored to your unique situation.
At Vutech | Ruff, Cutler Real Estate, our team is dedicated to guiding you through every step of the process, from securing pre-approval to considering long-term resale value. By partnering with experienced local agents who understand the market, you’ll be better equipped to make informed decisions and find a home that truly meets your needs.
Let us help you navigate the complexities of homebuying with confidence and peace of mind—your perfect home is out there, and we’re here to help you find it.
On April 8, 2024, Columbus will be in the direct path of a total solar eclipse for the first time since 1806. In case you didn’t know, a total solar eclipse occurs when the sun, moon, and Earth all align. Spanning 300 miles, the eclipse’s path will begin around 1:55 PM and reach total peak totality at about 3:12 PM, for a total duration of 2 hours and 31 minutes.
You can expect a noticeable temperature change, grayish skies, abnormal behavior from plants and animals, and then at peak totality, a dark shadow will appear just before the solar corona appears and totality hits.
Please Note:it is not safe to look directly at the Sun without the protection of specialized eye protection. Do not look at the Sun through a camera, binoculars, or telescope without a solar filter secured over the optics.
Columbus has a plethora of events to celebrate the once-in-a-lifetime phenomenon for everyone to enjoy. Let’s explore some of our top picks.
Join Land-Grant Brewing for an all-day eclipse extravaganza, featuring free eclipse glasses, exclusive COSI-collab Black IPA: Totality, interactive experiments with the COSI team, cosmic-themed music from Moon Voyager by Pink Floyd, and delicious local food trucks. RSVP here.
Witness the historic eclipse on the rooftop of the National Veterans Memorial and Museum. Hands-on learning activities will be available throughout the day including designing a military and NASA patch, drawing your perspective of the sky, and fun giveaways! Admission is free to NVMM members, $5 for students, and $10 for the general public. Learn more.
Experience the eclipse with VASO at Bridgepark in Dublin from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Attendees will be on the eighth-floor patio for an unforgettable viewing experience of the solar eclipse, complete with eclipse viewing glasses, drink tickets, complimentary tapas, and live entertainment by Dayna Sol. Get tickets here.
Grab your eclipse viewing glasses and some friends and prepare for the total solar eclipse! Stay safe and enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime occurrence, no matter what event you choose, or if you opt for your own backyard viewing party.
You might be eager to buy a new home, but the down payment has you questioning whether it is a realistic dream. The good news is that it may be more achievable than you think.
While a 20 percent down payment has been the traditional standard for purchasing a home, the fact is that it is not mandatory and there are loan options that have a much lower minimum requirement. That means you could be closer to your homebuying dream than you realize.
How Much Down Payment Do You Need to Buy a House?
According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), the median down payment hasn’t been over 20% since 2005. In fact, for all homebuyers today it’s only 15%; and just 8% for first-time homebuyers.
Lenders and government programs have different down payment requirements, depending on the type of loan being used. While most home buyers purchase homes with conventional loans, other financing options are available.
Types of Mortgage Loans
Conventional loan: These loans don’t have backing from a governmental program and, therefore, have stricter standards for credit scores, debt-to-income ratio (DTI), and down payments. Specifically, first-time home buyers must provide a down payment of 3% or higher, and experienced home buyers must put down at least 5%.
Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loan: Backed by the FHA, these loans require private lenders to follow government regulations when providing loans to borrowers with weaker credit and lower incomes. Because of the more flexible loan requirements, FHA loans require a 3.5% down payment for all buyers.
Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) loan: VA loans are for veteran and active-duty military members and eligible surviving spouses. have minimal financial hurdles, and oftentimes do not require a down payment.
U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) loan: USDA loans are for borrowers in qualifying rural areas with moderate financial requirements, and borrowers don’t have to have a down payment to qualify.
Down Payment Assistance
There also are a variety of resources available to help with a down payment. In fact, there are over 2,000 homebuyer assistance programs in the U.S., many intended to help with down payments. Your lender can help identify programs for which you may qualify. If you’re ready to become a homeowner, lean on your trusted advisors to find resources that can help you make your dreams a reality.
At Vutech | Ruff, Cutler Real Estate, our team is ready to help. We pride ourselves on our in-depth knowledge of the Ohio real estate market and financing options available for our clients.
Finding your dream home is one thing. Your dream experience is another. Contact us and let’s have a conversation.
As the weather warms up, so does the real estate market. This means now is the perfect time to prepare your home to sell in anticipation of a busy spring selling season in Central Ohio.
Although it may seem a bit overwhelming to get your home ready to sell, there are a few simple things you can do to ensure your home gives a great first impression to potential buyers.
Curb Appeal
Spring is the ideal time to spruce up your home’s exterior. Start by giving your lawn a fresh mow and trimming any unruly bushes or trees. Consider adding pops of color with seasonal flowers or potted plants to enhance curb appeal. A well-maintained exterior sets a positive tone before buyers even step foot inside.
Declutter
Create an inviting atmosphere by decluttering and depersonalizing your space. Clear countertops, shelves, and closets of excess items to make rooms feel more spacious and allow buyers to envision themselves living there. Pack away personal photos and belongings to help buyers focus on the potential of the home itself.
Let There Be Light
Welcome the natural light of spring into your home by opening curtains and blinds during showings. Replace any outdated light fixtures or bulbs to brighten up rooms and create a warm, inviting ambiance. Adequate lighting can make spaces feel larger and more inviting to potential buyers.
Deep Clean and Organize
A thorough cleaning is essential to showcase your home in its best light. Pay attention to often overlooked areas such as baseboards, light switches, and ceiling fans. Consider hiring professionals for deep cleaning, including carpets and upholstery. An organized and sparkling clean home speaks volumes to buyers about the care and maintenance of the property.
Neutralize Color Palettes
While you may love bold colors, potential buyers might prefer a blank canvas. Consider repainting walls in neutral tones to appeal to a broader range of tastes and make it easier for buyers to imagine themselves in the space. Neutral colors also help rooms feel more spacious and allow buyers to focus on the architectural features of your home.
Showcase Outdoor Living Spaces
Take advantage of the warmer weather by highlighting outdoor living spaces. Clean and stage patios, decks, and backyard areas to showcase their potential for entertaining and relaxation. Invest in outdoor furniture or accessories to create inviting outdoor vignettes that inspire buyers to envision themselves enjoying the space.
Make Necessary Repairs
Address any lingering maintenance issues to ensure your home is in top condition for potential buyers. Fix leaky faucets, squeaky doors, and any other minor repairs that could detract from the overall appeal of your home. Investing in these repairs upfront can prevent potential buyers from negotiating down the asking price later.
Once your home is prepped for sale, it’s time to find a real estate agent to help guide you through the selling of your home. Your agent should be knowledgeable about the market, know the listings on the MLS in your area, as well as what is coming soon, and be familiar with recent comparable sales in your neighborhood.
From pricing the home to suggesting minor updates and fixes around the house to get it ready for selling, your agent can guide you through the process to closing.
At Vutech | Ruff, Cutler Real Estate, we stand ready to offer our expertise. We consistently rank among the highest-producing teams in Central Ohio. Explore our qualifications or initiate the home-selling process by reaching us at 614-897-0618 or contacting us online today.
We are proud of the team we have built at Vutech | Ruff, Cutler Real Estate. Our team of qualified agents stands as the cornerstone of our real estate agency, bringing a wealth of experience, expertise, and dedication to guide you through your real estate journey.
We are excited to share more about the team behind Vutech | Ruff, Cutler Real Estate. Keep reading to get to know Emily Knoppe.
Tell us a little bit about your path to becoming a realtor…Education background, work experience
I graduated from OSU with a Degree in Design. I always loved all things that had to do with houses. I worked as a designer for a number of years and in 2008 started working sales. I have been able to combine my love for homes and my competitive nature for sales to create my dream job.
Flashback to when you were 10 years old. What do you want to be when you grow up?
I absolutely wanted to be a Veterinarian. I have such a passion for animals and I always want to be helping them. When I was little I would help all of the animals out of the window wells so that they had a chance of survival. I could never leave a hurt animal without helping it and I hated to see them scared. I always tried to make sure they felt they were safe with me.
Why did you choose to become a realtor?
I believe because I am highly competitive, I like working with people, I don’t ever want a desk job, and mainly because of my passion for design.
What’s your favorite thing about living in Central Ohio?
It’s easy and it feels like home. There is never too much traffic, it’s never really too hot or too cold (I have to live somewhere where there is a change in seasons), it’s affordable, and it’s where my family is.
What excites you the most about the Central Ohio housing market?
I want to say the challenge but what I find really hard these days is getting Buyers and Sellers to not believe the “news” and understand that we live in a bit of a bubble here. What excites me is being able to talk with clients, friends and family about the knowledge that we have as Realtors and what we really provide to Buyers and Sellers. I find it exciting when a client of mine really sees my “value”.
Describe your typical day for us
I get to set the alarm the night before based on my day, meaning, I don’t have a set schedule. Everyday is different. Some days I don’t leave my house and some days I leave at 8AM and don’t get home until 8PM. I guess my typical day would involve, dropping my son off at school, working a bit, working out, working a bit more, picking up my son, working a bit, and then hanging out with the family.
What sets Vutech | Ruff, Cuter Real Estate apart from other brokerages?
I can’t speak for other Teams but what I can say is that we are a group of people that love to have fun and laugh. We support each other, we are each others cheerleaders, and we are healthy competitors. I look at my teammates for the drive to be better and to get better at what I do. Jeff and Marilyn have been in this business a long time and even they will admit that they don’t always have the answers. We have our own little family and it feels good to be a part of this group.
What special skills or talents do you have that others may not know about?
I am really good with color. I think it goes hand in hand with my design background but I can see colors in other colors so I believe I do a good job helping people make good choices. I have a passion for design and I am consistent wanting to change things in our home. The easiest and least expensive way I have figured out to do this is with pillows, paint, and fixtures. Updating a home with paint and fixtures like plumbing and lighting can go a long way in Real Estate.
Tell us a little bit about your family.
I live in Worthington with my husband and 8 year old son. My husband is a Real Estate Investor and people always ask if we talk work a lot. The answer is yes, we both love what we do so we both find it interesting to hear about the other’s day. We bounce ideas off each other and respect each others knowledge in the business. I grew up in Worthington and my husband grew up in Powell yet our paths never crossed until we were both out of college even though we knew a lot of the same people. Our son is a busy body, he is very social and loves to be around people. His teacher called him the “mayor” of the classroom this year. He is into baseball and hockey right now and also plays soccer, basketball, and football. My parents still live in the house I grew up at in Worthington. They have a beautiful lot on the Olentangy River. We live 5 minutes apart which has been amazing for our son to have quality time with them.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I started to enjoying working in the yard. When my husband and I bought our home it was in need of a lot of work. I had a love hate relationship with our yard for a long time because there were a lot of weeds and overgrowth. If its warm and I can put on music and get outside I will. I love the transformation.
What are three things you can’t live without? Besides the obvious of Family and Friends.
Animals – We recently lost our Dog of 12 years and thankfully we have a cat. I don’t think I could live in a home with no animals. They are so amazing.
Starbucks – I love my coffee in the morning. I love the smell and the taste. You can almost always catch me with a Starbucks in my hand.
Fall – I love all things Fall. The crisp in the air, Halloween, scary movies, outdoor fires, the changing leaves. There is nothing better then a chill in the air, watching a scary movie with a blanket, and a good/drink snack.
Finding your dream home is one thing. Your dream experience is another. Contact us to discuss.
Are you ready to embrace the condominium lifestyle right here in Central Ohio? Look no further! At Vutech & Ruff, Cutler Real Estate, we understand that the search for the perfect condo is not just about four walls; it’s about finding a home that complements how you live your life. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, empty-nester, or someone looking to invest in the thriving Central Ohio real estate market, we’ve got you covered.
Options for condo living in Central Ohio
Central Ohio, with its vibrant communities, rich cultural scene, and a perfect blend of urban and suburban living, offers a myriad of opportunities for condo enthusiasts. From the bustling streets of Downtown Columbus to the charming neighborhoods of Dublin, New Albany, and beyond, our team of experienced real estate professionals is dedicated to bringing you insightful information, market trends, and expert advice.
From modern high-rises with stunning city views to cozy units nestled in picturesque communities, there is a condo for every lifestyle in Central Ohio. We can help you delve into the amenities, lifestyle offerings, and investment potential that each unit provides, ensuring you make an informed decision that aligns with your vision of the perfect home.
What to consider when buying a condo
When considering condominium ownership, it’s crucial to weigh various factors that go beyond just its physical attributes. Location stands out as a cornerstone consideration, impacting not only your daily life but also the property’s long-term value. Our team can help you delve into the community dynamics, evaluating amenities, HOA regulations, and the overall atmosphere to ensure they align with your lifestyle preferences.
Financial prudence is paramount, encompassing not just the purchase price but also potential future assessments, maintenance fees, and the overall health of the condo association. Equipping yourself with a clear understanding of the market trends, resale potential, and any upcoming developments in the area will empower you to make a well-informed decision.
Here are just some of the condo communities in Central Ohio in which we have helped our clients buy and sell.
8 on the Square
The Dakota
Sterling Lofts
Beck St Condominiums
Wall St condomimiums
The Jackson on High
North Bank Condominiums
Parks Edge
Buggyworks
Miranova
Waterford Tower
Sycamore Place
Burnham Square
The Hartman
Schlee Malt Haus
Neighborhood Launch
Kelly’s Place
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.
From cozy corners to chic eateries, our team has curated a list of their favorite spots for a date or special night out with friends. Whether you’re looking for an intimate dinner or just want to enjoy the city vibes, join us as we explore our top picks, approved by those with a knack for prime locations, both in the market and on the town.
Navigating the intricate world of buying or selling a home is undoubtedly one of the most significant financial transactions individuals undertake. While the option to sell your property independently is legally viable, the current real estate landscape, even in a seller’s market, strongly advocates against it. Discover the compelling reasons why enlisting the services of a real estate agent is paramount in today’s dynamic market.
Precision in Pricing
While online tools can provide a glimpse of your home’s value, they often fall short in capturing the nuances required for accurate pricing. Elements such as prevailing market conditions and recent comparable sales in your vicinity play a crucial role. Setting an optimal price that ensures a swift sale while maximizing profits becomes a complex task without the expert guidance of a real estate agent.
Showcasing Your Home’s Best
Embarking on the journey of selling your home exposes it to meticulous scrutiny. Every image accompanying your listing should accentuate its finest attributes. This necessitates meticulous preparation, from refreshing paintwork to landscaping enhancements and even strategic staging with rented furnishings. A real estate agent becomes your advisor, suggesting ways to create a captivating first impression and appeal to potential buyers.
Amplifying Visibility with Marketing
Even a meticulously priced and beautifully presented home risks languishing on the market if it doesn’t attract attention. Real estate agents prove invaluable in this regard, utilizing their knowledge to strategically advertise your property, expanding your potential buyer pool, and optimizing your chances of a successful sale.
Confident Document Execution
The ever-expanding paperwork involved in home sales can be overwhelming for sellers. Understanding the intricate details of contracts, regulations, and mandatory disclosures is crucial to avoid legal pitfalls. With a real estate agent at your side, you gain a knowledgeable companion to guide you through the fine print, minimizing the risk of costly errors that might occur when navigating the process independently.
Expert Negotiation Tactics
When envisioning real estate negotiations, the common image is of an agent securing the best deal for a homebuyer. Yet, sellers benefit equally from having a skilled negotiator in their corner. Buyers aim for the most favorable terms, and their agent is committed to securing it for them. Additionally, inspections and appraisals often unearth concerns, making adept negotiation essential. Rather than facing these challenges alone, a real estate professional brings valuable expertise to the negotiating table.
Selling a house involves numerous intricacies—avoid the solo path. At Vutech | Ruff, Cutler Real Estate, we stand ready to offer our expertise. We consistently rank among the highest-producing teams in Central Ohio. Explore our qualifications or initiate the home-selling process by reaching us at 614-897-0618 or contacting us online today.
We are proud of the team we have built at Vutech | Ruff, Cutler Real Estate. Our team of qualified agents stands as the cornerstone of our real estate agency, bringing a wealth of experience, expertise, and dedication to guide you through your real estate journey.
We are excited to share more about the team behind Vutech | Ruff, Cutler Real Estate. Keep reading to get to know Kate Giller.
Tell us a little bit about your path to becoming a realtor
After graduating from college, I returned to Columbus and worked in private banking with Bank One, now JP Morgan Chase, before deciding to stay home with my three young children. By the time the youngest was in grade school, I knew I wanted to go back to work. I worked in a few different fields before electing to go into residential real estate.
Flashback to when you were 10 years old. What do you want to be when you grow up?
I truly had no idea. I would have been inclined for a career in business.
Why did you choose to become a realtor?
My husband and I had renovated two homes and I loved real estate. Our habit of renovating continues today.
What’s your favorite thing about living in Central Ohio?
The people and the energy. Certainly not the weather!
What excites you the most about the Central Ohio housing market?
The Central Ohio housing market can be a real challenge for Buyers, and as of the past few months it is now a challenge for Sellers as well. I have the diligence to stick with clients for years until they find the right home. I do like data and the Central Ohio housing market is always providing interesting data because our housing demand consistently outpaces our supply.
What sets Vutech | Ruff, Cuter Real Estate apart from other brokerages?
Experience and Connections
Experience – we have a team of experienced realtors always discussing new strategies.
Connections – We are connected with other top realtors and our client base serves as a tremendous benefit to both our Sellers and our Buyers.
What special skills or talents do you have that others may not know about?
I don’t have any superpowers, but I am long on diligence and drive.
Tell us a little bit about your family.
I have three grown children. The eldest daughter lives in Austin, Texas, my son lives in NYC and my youngest daughter is a junior in college at Boston College.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I love to work out. It actually helps keeps my mind organized.
What are three things you can’t live without?
A good outdoor space, some quiet in my day, and exercise
Finding your dream home is one thing. Your dream experience is another. Contact us to discuss.
