Columbus, Ohio, Housing Market Holds Steady
by Blanche Evans
Columbus, Ohio, real estate agents anticipate continuing modest but steady appreciation rates in housing. "Columbus has great central and north-east locations, with easy access to I-270, I-71 and 315," say Realtors Gina Myers and Jill Fergus. "A broad range of housing exists in these areas. There's something for everyone! 2005 will be a good year for the Columbus area! Columbus, Ohio, is in a time of market appreciation. Most of the city is appreciating at a steady but modest rate of two/three percent per year. While this is not a dramatic rise, it is consistent. This makes real estate a good, solid investment in Columbus." Says Realtor Andrew Show, "Columbus, the state capital, has grown into the most populous and exciting metro city in Ohio, while still maintaining its midwestern roots, diverse economy, and excellent transportation system." About the market, Show explains, "Homes under $185,000 are selling in a reasonable amount of time, but higher priced home sales are soft." "Rapidly growing (1.5 million smsa), Columbus is a vibrant city with a wide variety of housing choices from the low $100's to over $2 million," says Realtor Jim Lubinsky. "It's home to the second-largest insurance company concentration in US and many major bank operations." He suggests, "Columbus has a very strong condominium market. Inventory is at a higher than normal level for this time of year, but certain market segments are selling quickly and experiencing a seller's market condition. The hot segments are both geographic as well as property type. Condominiums are selling very quickly in most communities." |
