My Journey in Real Estate & What’s Ahead for 2025: A Look Back & A Look Forward
My Journey in Real Estate & What’s Ahead for 2025: A Look Back & A Look Forward
A First Year of Challenges and Growth
When I first got into real estate, I knew it would be a business built on relationships, hard work, and adaptability. What I didn’t expect was how quickly the market would shift. My first year in the industry saw interest rates jump into the 6% range, a sharp increase that sent shockwaves through the market. Many buyers who had been pre-approved at lower rates suddenly found themselves priced out, and I even lost a few deals with buyers who were already in contract but could no longer afford the payments.
Despite the turbulence, I remained committed to my clients and focused on problem-solving rather than panic. One of my biggest success stories from that first year was working with a single mother of three who needed to sell her home—one that required a lot of TLC. Not only did we successfully sell it, but I also helped her find a new home in a stronger school district for her children, all in the middle of a highly competitive market. It was a challenge, but seeing her family settle into a better home made it one of the most rewarding experiences of my career.
Navigating Industry Changes & Finding the Right Leadership
Real estate is always evolving, and one of the biggest changes in the industry came with the NAR settlement lawsuit. The shifting landscape forced me to take a hard look at where I wanted to grow in my career and what kind of leadership I wanted to be surrounded by. That journey led me to Shaun Simpson and the Make It Home Group at Real Brokerage of Ohio.
Joining this team was one of the best decisions I’ve made. I’ve found a group of professionals who truly prioritize client relationships, integrity, and innovation. This move also helped me push my business to the next level, earning the President’s Merit Award for Outstanding Sales from Columbus Realtors—an achievement that means a lot to me in just my third year in the business.
Gaining a New Perspective Through Community Work
Beyond my work as a Realtor, my role as a commissioner on the Livingston Ave Area Commission has given me an entirely new perspective on real estate at a community level. The area is experiencing positive change, with new developments and investments bringing fresh energy to the neighborhood. However, one of the biggest challenges residents face is ensuring that they have a seat at the table when decisions about their community are made. Homeownership, development, and city planning all intersect in ways that impact people’s daily lives, and this work has helped me better understand what buyers and sellers in these areas truly need.
Looking Ahead to 2025: An Optimistic Outlook
The real estate market in 2025 is shaping up to be an interesting one, and while national projections show a mixed outlook, I believe Columbus and Central Ohio are in a unique position for growth. The demand for housing remains high, inventory is stabilizing, and while interest rates are still a factor, they are expected to gradually improve throughout the year.
Locally, we’re seeing continued job growth, new developments, and increasing interest from out-of-state buyers who recognize Columbus as a city on the rise. These factors, combined with the lessons I’ve learned over the past few years, make me confident that 2025 will be my biggest year yet.
For buyers and sellers wondering if now is the right time to make a move, my answer is this: Every market presents opportunities—you just need the right strategy. If you’re thinking about buying or selling this year, let’s connect and build a plan that works for you.
📩 Thinking about making a move in 2025? Let’s chat!