Agent Spotlight: Emily Knoppe

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.  

The Benefits of Working with a Real Estate Agent 

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. 

Agent Spotlight: Kate Giller

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.  

Agent Spotlight: Greg Collins

We are proud of the team we have built at Vutech | Ruff, Cutler Real Estate. Our team is the cornerstone of our real estate agency, bringing a wealth of experience, expertise, and dedication to guide you through your journey.  

We are excited to share more about the team behind Vutech | Ruff, Cutler Real Estate. Keep reading to get to know Greg Collins.

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

I earned a bachelor’s degree in English Literature from the University of Kentucky, and spent the next six years as a copywriter for various businesses and institutions such as Nationwide Insurance and Ohio Wesleyan University.

I joined the Vutech & Ruff team in 2018, originally in a logistics capacity, but have since expanded my role by becoming a licensed Realtor. I wear many hats, striving to add value with my flexibility and versatility.

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

Major League Baseball pitcher.

Why did you choose to become a realtor?

To make myself a more valuable asset to Jeff and Marilyn.

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

The people. I find the people of Columbus to be representative of the most reasonable sort of American. We benefit from the vast and diverse “marketplace of ideas” that exists within a city of this size that is also welded to a massive and excellent institution of higher education.

Columbus has been said to have an identity crisis ever since it became the capital in 1816. After having lived here for so many years, I believe that perception is due in large part to the attitude of its population; we’re balanced and measured rather than extreme. We’re proud but not self-aggrandizing. So, crafting a certain identity the rest of the state or country can use to more easily understand us simply isn’t a priority. People in Columbus tend to know how good they have it and that’s infectious.

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

Growth is limitless, and so the opportunities are too. The presence of Ohio State means we will always be young. The recent investment our state (and country) has made in making Ohio a crucial global producer will mean there will be plenty of runway for that youth to grow and prosper. There are obstacles, but I’m excited by the rock-solid foundation and the potential.

Describe your typical day for us.

Typically, I drive around the city installing signs and lockboxes, collecting, and delivering checks, solving problems with our team’s various listings, and showing homes to Jeff’s and Marilyn’s clients when they would otherwise be double-booked. Days get very busy when I have all that to do in addition to serving my own clients.

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

I’ve not experienced any other teams, but I can’t imagine there are many made up of such skilled high producers who are all devoted to doing the right thing by their clients, teammates, and the public. The amount of attention and resources paid to various forms of philanthropy is especially inspiring.

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

I don’t always find enough time for it, but I enjoy storytelling in all its forms especially filmmaking. I’ve done a fair amount of screenwriting and acting ever since I was a kid, and I’ll always love that thrill of storytelling.

Tell us a little bit about your family.

Education is of great importance to my parents. Between the two of them they’ve become a valedictorian, graduated from the oldest and most prestigious high school in the country, and earned four college degrees including a Master’s degree from Harvard Business School.

Although my siblings and I didn’t live up to those achievements, our family remains very close because the one thing my parents valued more than academic success was instilling an unwavering commitment to kindness, empathy, and justice, and I feel we’re all bound by that foundation for how to live.

My sister is a published poet, an animal cruelty investigator, and a mother of two girls. My brother is a recent and decorated graduate of the police academy. I’m very proud of them both. My mother, Mary Collins is a private writing teacher, as well as an English professor at Columbus State University. My father, Neil Collins runs a business incubator called Innovate New Albany and teaches marketing at Dennison University.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

In my spare time I enjoy my fiancé and watching sports (like all the sports).

What are three things you can’t live without?

My fiancé, my family, and the works of my heroes, especially Vonnegut, Orwell, Hesse, Kubrick, and Paul Thomas Anderson.

Finding your dream home is one thing. Your dream experience is another. Contact us to discuss.  

 

With Gratitude

This month we find ourselves reflecting on the year gone by and counting our blessings. It is with immense gratitude and warmth in our hearts that we extend our sincerest thanks to you, our valued clients, partners, and friends, for being an integral part of the Vutech | Ruff, Cutler Real Estate family. 

Gratitude for Our Clients 

To our cherished clients, thank you for entrusting us with the important task of finding your homes or helping you sell and move on to new beginnings. Your trust and confidence inspire us every day to strive for excellence and to deliver dream results that exceed expectations. We are grateful for the opportunity to be a part of your homeownership journey.  

Appreciation for Our Partners 

Our success wouldn’t be possible without the collaboration and support of our esteemed partners. Whether you’re a fellow real estate professional, a vendor, or a community partner, your commitment to excellence and shared values have played a vital role in the growth and success of Vutech | Ruff. Together, we’ve built strong foundations, and we look forward to continuing these partnerships in the years to come.  

A Team Gratitude 

Behind every successful real estate transaction is a dedicated team working tirelessly to ensure smooth processes and exceptional service. To the incredible agents, administrative staff, and everyone who contributes to the success of Vutech | Ruff, thank you for your hard work, passion, and unwavering dedication. 

Community Thanks 

Our connection with the community is at the heart of what we do. We are grateful for the communities we serve and for the opportunity to give back. Your support empowers us to make a positive impact, and for that, we are truly thankful. 

Looking Ahead 

As we express our gratitude, we also look forward to the future with excitement and anticipation. The real estate journey is one of continuous growth and evolution, and we are committed to adapting and innovating to better serve you. Your feedback and insights guide us, and we are eager to explore new horizons together. 

This Thanksgiving may your homes be filled with joy, laughter, and the warmth of loved ones. From our Vutech | Ruff, Cutler Real Estate team. 

Agent Spotlight: Sarah Abbitt

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 Sarah Abbitt. 

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

I began my education at Capital University in Nursing.  I realized nursing wasn’t for me and switched gears to work on my associate degree at Columbus State.  During this time, I worked full-time for an insurance software company, Ebix Inc., formerly Peak Performance.  While working for the software company, I managed several different areas within the company.  I worked on HR processing, payroll / AR / AP, planning conferences, and managing colleges.  While working at Ebix / Peak, I had the experience of merging three multi-million-dollar companies.  This work experience helped shape my career and prepare me for managing my own business.  After staying home for a few years to raise my children, I returned to college and obtained my bachelor’s degree in business at Franklin University.  I graduated from Franklin University the same year I obtained my Real Estate License.  I had big goals in 2016!  After obtaining my license, I joined the Vutech-Ruff team in June of 2016.   

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

When I was 10 years old, I lived in Nashville, TN.  I lived near Alan Jackson and Dolly Parton.  I went to school with Travis Tritt’s daughter and my friend’s mother had written a song for Patty Loveless.  I remember visiting the Grand Olde Opry and thinking to myself how cool it would be to be a famous singer.   

Why did you choose to become a realtor? 

By the time I was in high school, my parents had owned 12 different homes.  I lived in 7 of those.  As my family picked up to move each time, my interest in viewing properties grew stronger.  I enjoyed seeing the different architecture and styles of homes in the varying cities.  As I grew older, it was intriguing to me to be able to run my own business while still being able to love what I do.  I also loved the fact that I could build my schedule around my children or work from home as needed.   

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

My favorite thing about living in Central Ohio is the proximity to so many different things: Hocking Hills, Buckeye Lake, Short North, Easton Town Center, Polaris Mall, OSU Stadium, Blendon Woods, Blue Jackets Ice Rink, and so much more!  Being born in Columbus, I have witnessed Columbus’s growth since the early 80’s.  The downtown area has transformed in more ways than one.  The development that our city is putting into our infrastructure, parks, and business is drastically different than what I have seen in years prior, and this is a direct reflection of the growth our city is experiencing.   

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

The growth we are going to witness over the next 7-10 years is going to be astonishing.  To hear headline news call us the next “Silicon Valley” is very exciting.   

Describe your typical day for us. 

Part of my morning routine includes checking the MLS for new listings, coming soons, and automated searches I have set up for my clients.  If I see any listings that could be of interest to any of my clients, I reach out to them to gauge their interest.  I check my schedule for showings that day and check each of my transactions to make sure they are on target for closing.  Later in the morning, I like to catch a Jazzercise class before jumping headfirst into my day. 

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

Just as our motto states, “We are the dream experience”.  When working with a Vuetch-Ruff agent, our clients rest assured knowing they will have a quality experience along the way.  The Vutech-Ruff team is based on building relationships, not just closing transactions.  I tell my clients at every closing, “Things don’t end here.  Please utilize me as a resource moving forward.”  I, as do my teammates, genuinely enjoy receiving updates on our clients’ home improvement projects, marriages, additions to the family, etc.. As I look inward to our team, I am thankful to work for a team that functions as a family business and truly cares about the well-being of each individual on the team.  

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

It has been a couple of years since I picked it up, but I have played the violin since 4th grade.  In high school, I was the second chair seat, and I played with the Columbus Symphony Orchestra.  When my girlfriend got married, she asked me to play during her wedding ceremony.  I was also a color guard in high school and marched in the Rose Bowl Parade.  Although those days are long gone, I did participate in the alumni ceremony three years ago with my alumni band.  Currently, I enjoy Jazzercise classes as a means of working out.  

Tell us a little bit about your family. 

My family consists of my two children, Tagan (13) and Scarlett (10), and my two cockaliers, Luna and Nova.  My children stay active with hockey, mountain biking and dance.  When they aren’t busy with their own activities, they enjoy helping me with showings, playing with our dogs, and spending time with friends and family.  My extended family all live within a couple of miles of me.  We have several family gatherings a year, which consist of 30 people or more.  My two children are the youngest of 12 grandchildren but do well at keeping up with the older clan.  

What do you like to do in your spare time? 

My favorite thing to do in my spare time is travel.  My number one location is the beach but as I get older, I am yearning to view more historical landmarks.  When I am not traveling, I like to entertain friends and family or participate in family and friend gatherings.  

What are three things you can’t live without? 

My family, my dogs, and my health. 

Finding your dream home is one thing. Your dream experience is another. Contact us to discuss.