Buy a home
Your home search, led by specialists
Whether it’s your first home or your next one, we help you buy with clarity and confidence across Central Ohio.
First home?
We’ll explain every step.
Renting now?
Ready to go from renting to owning?
Buying your first home should feel exciting, not overwhelming. We explain the jargon and your options before you decide anything. Together we’ll cover:
- What you can comfortably afford — beyond the purchase price
- Down payment, closing costs and monthly cost of ownership
- First-time buyer programs available in Ohio, such as those offered through the Ohio Housing Finance Agency
- What to expect from accepted offer to keys in hand
How we help buyers
Six steps to the keys
Buyer consultation
We learn your goals, budget and timing, and review our written buyer agreement together.
Financial readiness
We explain pre-approval so you shop with a clear price range. You choose your lender.
Search & showings
We find homes that fit and schedule showings around your life.
Offer & negotiation
We price your offer using recent sales and negotiate on your behalf.
Under contract
We keep inspection, appraisal and financing deadlines on track.
Closing day
We coordinate with your lender and title company, then celebrate as you get your keys.
Buyer representation, made clear
No surprises. Just straightforward answers.
Before we tour homes together, we’ll sit down and review a written buyer representation agreement. It spells out what we’ll do for you, how long the agreement lasts, and how — and how much — we’re compensated. Compensation is negotiable, and we’ll answer every question before you sign.
Buyer questions
Good questions, honest answers
Don’t see your question here? Call the Specialists — we’re happy to help.
Call 614-767-9767Do I need to be pre-approved before I start looking at homes?
It’s strongly recommended. A pre-approval tells you — and sellers — what you can borrow, which makes your search more focused and your offers more competitive. If you haven’t started yet, we’ll explain the process and what to prepare.
What does a buyer’s agent actually do for me?
We represent your interests throughout the purchase: helping you define what you want, finding and touring homes, analyzing value, writing and negotiating your offer, and guiding you through inspections, appraisal, financing deadlines and closing.
How is a buyer’s agent paid?
Before we tour homes together, we’ll review a written buyer representation agreement with you. It explains the services we provide and how — and how much — we are compensated. Compensation is negotiable, and in some cases may be paid by the seller as part of the transaction. We’ll walk you through your options and answer every question before you sign anything.
I’m a first-time buyer. Where do I start?
Start with a conversation. Call or text 614-767-9767, or send us a note through our contact page. We’ll talk through your goals, timing and budget, and map out clear next steps — no pressure.
How long does it take to buy a home?
Every search is different. Some buyers find the right home within a few weeks; others take a few months. Once an offer is accepted, closing commonly takes about 30 to 45 days, depending on financing and the terms of your contract.
Can you help if I’m moving to Central Ohio from out of town?
Absolutely. We can share neighborhood insight, video walk-throughs and local context to help you narrow your search before you arrive, then make the most of your time once you’re here.
Ready to start your home search?
Tell us what you’re looking for. No pressure — just honest answers from a local specialist.
NORTHSTAR Real Estate Specialistsnorthstarrealestate@live.com · Serving Central Ohio