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 

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.  

 

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.