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Liz and Bill Spear
Our team serves residential home buyers and sellers throughout southwest Ohio, from Dayton to Cincinnati and all points in between. Your referrals are appreciated. Liz & Bill Spear
Cell: 513-520-5305
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Real Estate Agent
Joe Jackson
Licensed since 1979 CRS and E-Pro. I am a part owner of the Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty market center. We sell single family homes ,apartments and small commercial buildings.
Office: 614 431 1220
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All About Ohio Real Estate

By Sam Miller, Knox County Ohio Real Estate Specialist
(RE/MAX Stars Realty)
If you're searching for a place where you can enjoy lake life without traveling hours from home, Apple Valley Lake in Howard, Ohio, is truly a hidden gem. Nestled in the scenic rolling hills of Knox County, Apple Valley offers something for everyone. Whether you're looking for a year-round residence, a relaxing vacation home, or the perfect place to gather with family and friends throughout the year, this vibrant lake community has become one of central Ohio's most desirable destinations. Residents enjoy the beauty of every season, from boating and swimming in the summer to colorful autumn views, peaceful winter scenery, and springtime adventures around the lake.One of the many reasons people love owning property at Apple Valley is its affordability. Unlike many lake communities that ch...
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By Sam Miller, Knox County Ohio Real Estate Specialist
(RE/MAX Stars Realty)
We are asked dozens of times each year whether you need to own a waterfront home to enjoy boating, jet skiing, and other activities on Apple Valley Lake. The answer is no! One of the best features of the Apple Valley community is that you do not have to own a lakefront property to enjoy the lake. As long as you own a home or even a vacant lot within Apple Valley and are current on your annual Property Owners Association assessment, you can enjoy many of the community's amenities, including access to the lake.This means that homeowners with homes located throughout the community—not just those on the waterfront—can launch a boat, take a jet ski out on the water, spend the day fishing, or simply enjoy the beautiful lake with family and friends. Many buyers are pleasantly surprised to lear...
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By Sam Miller, Knox County Ohio Real Estate Specialist
(RE/MAX Stars Realty)
One of the most common questions people ask when visiting Knox County is, "Is Apple Valley Lake open to the public?" The short answer is no. Apple Valley Lake is a private, member-owned lake located within the Apple Valley community. Access to the lake and many of its amenities is reserved for property owners and their guests. However, visitors can enjoy the community by staying in a vacation rental or visiting as the guest of a property owner, allowing them to experience the lake lifestyle while following the community's access guidelines.Property owners and their guests have access to a variety of amenities, including the private lake, beaches, marina, clubhouse, parks, campground, and other recreational facilities. Guest policies and access requirements vary depending on the amenity,...
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By Sam Miller, Knox County Ohio Real Estate Specialist
(RE/MAX Stars Realty)
One of the most peaceful and picturesque areas of Ariel Foundation Park in Mount Vernon, Ohio, is The Lakes. Located within the park's 250-acre landscape, the three beautiful lakes were once gravel quarries and have since been transformed into a scenic destination for recreation and relaxation. Surrounded by paved walking paths, benches, and open green spaces, The Lakes offer visitors a tranquil setting to enjoy nature while experiencing one of Knox County's most unique parks.The Lakes provide something for everyone to enjoy. Visitors can walk or bike along the paved pathways, cast a line while fishing, or launch a kayak or canoe for a peaceful paddle across the water, following park regulations. Seven picnic pavilions are located throughout the area, making it a popular spot for family...
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By Sam Miller, Knox County Ohio Real Estate Specialist
(RE/MAX Stars Realty)
The Knox County real estate market is showing a somewhat slow pace as we move into August 2026. There are currently 97 active single-family homes available for sale, with 16 additional properties pending a contract. This creates a pending ratio of 14.2%, which helps indicate the relationship between the supply of available homes and buyer demand. The median list price for homes currently on the market is $387,900, with the $300,000–$400,000 price range having the largest inventory at 32 active listings. The $400,000–$500,000 price range also has a relatively large number of contracts pending, suggesting continued activity in that segment of the market.Looking at the past six months, 187 homes have sold in Knox County, with a median sold price of $289,900. The $200,000–$300,000 price ran...
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By Sam Miller, Knox County Ohio Real Estate Specialist
(RE/MAX Stars Realty)
The Mount Vernon, Ohio real estate market is showing a somewhat slow pace as we move into August 2026. There are currently 51 active single-family homes available for sale, with six additional properties pending a contract. This creates a pending ratio of 10.5%, which provides insight into the balance between the number of homes available and the level of buyer demand. The median list price for homes currently on the market is $379,900, while the $300,000–$400,000 price range has the largest number of active listings, with 19 homes currently available.Looking at sales over the past six months, 96 homes have sold in the Mount Vernon market, with a median sold price of $257,500. The $200,000–$300,000 price range had the highest number of sold listings during this period. Homes that sold s...
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By Sam Miller, Knox County Ohio Real Estate Specialist
(RE/MAX Stars Realty)
Tucked along the Mohican Valley Trail in Knox County, Ohio, the Bridge of Dreams is one of the area's most unique and memorable landmarks. This impressive 370-foot covered bridge spans the Mohican River valley and offers visitors a chance to experience a piece of Ohio's railroad history while enjoying the beauty of the surrounding countryside. The Mohican Valley Trail stretches 4.5 miles from Danville to the Holmes County line near Brinkhaven, connecting with both the Kokosing Gap Trail and the Holmes County Trail.The Bridge of Dreams has its roots in the area's railroad history. The original railroad bridge at the site was constructed in the 1920s and once carried the Pennsylvania Railroad line across the Mohican River. After the railroad line was abandoned in the early 1990s, local re...
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By Sam Miller, Knox County Ohio Real Estate Specialist
(RE/MAX Stars Realty)
Explore the Kokosing Gap Trail The Kokosing Gap Trail is one of Knox County's most popular destinations for enjoying the outdoors and exploring the area's beautiful scenery. This 14-mile paved recreational trail follows a former Pennsylvania Railroad line and connects Mount Vernon, Gambier, Howard, and Danville. Whether you're walking, jogging, biking, or rollerblading, the trail offers an easy and enjoyable way to experience the natural beauty of central Ohio. The trail is open year-round and provides access to forests, wetlands, farmland, and the scenic Kokosing River.Along the route, trail users can enjoy a variety of unique sights and natural features. The trail crosses the Kokosing River twice on railroad bridges that are more than 250 feet long, offering beautiful views of the sur...
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By Sam Miller, Knox County Ohio Real Estate Specialist
(RE/MAX Stars Realty)
Explore the Heart of Ohio Trail in Knox County, OhioThe Heart of Ohio Trail is a beautiful multi-use trail that offers nearly 20 miles of opportunities to walk, bike, inline skate, and explore the outdoors in Knox County. Beginning at the historic C.A. & C. Depot at 501 South Main Street in Mount Vernon, the trail stretches to the Village of Centerburg, providing a scenic way to experience the countryside and communities of central Ohio. The trail is part of a larger regional trail system that includes the Kokosing Gap Trail and Mohican Valley Trail, which together form part of the Ohio to Erie Trail—a 326-mile route connecting Cincinnati and Cleveland.One of the highlights of the Heart of Ohio Trail is its smooth, high-quality asphalt surface, making it accessible for a variety of recr...
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By Sam Miller, Knox County Ohio Real Estate Specialist
(RE/MAX Stars Realty)
Everyone seems to have a story about when they bought their first home. The reality is many of those stories are not accurate today in the current housing marketing. There was a time that buyers would have to save for years to put enough cash back in savings for their down payment. Today, we have a mixture of home loans where down payments can range from a USDA no money down loan, an FHA 3.5% down payment and many of the conventional loans are available with 5%, 10% and 20% down. Watch this video to hear the Top 5 Myths About Buying A Home Today that I often hear from 1st time buyers and their parents. Feel free to ask a question or leave a comment down below and thank you for watching!You can subscribe to our YouTube channel by clicking hereSam Miller of REMAX Stars Realty 740-397-7800...
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By Sam Miller, Knox County Ohio Real Estate Specialist
(RE/MAX Stars Realty)
Norris Grain Farms: Agriculture and Stewardship in Gambier, OhioNestled in the rolling countryside surrounding Gambier, Ohio, Norris Grain Farms is a local farming operation with a strong focus on agriculture, land stewardship, and innovation. Owned and operated by Tim Norris, the farm grows a variety of crops, including corn, soybeans, wheat, and sunflowers. In addition to farming its own acreage, Norris Grain Farms also custom-farms land for neighboring property owners, helping maintain the agricultural landscape that makes the Gambier and Knox County area so special.Norris Grain Farms is also recognized for its commitment to conservation and responsible farming practices. Tim Norris has been recognized for his work in agriculture, including being named a 2023 Ohio Master Farmer and r...
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By Sam Miller, Knox County Ohio Real Estate Specialist
(RE/MAX Stars Realty)
One of the most unique attractions in downtown Mount Vernon, Ohio, is the whimsical Dog Fountain at South Main Plaza. Located at 201 South Main Street, Mount Vernon, OH 43050, the fountain has become a fun and memorable destination for residents and visitors alike. Situated at the corner of South Main and West Gambier Streets, South Main Plaza offers a welcoming place to pause, relax, and enjoy one of the city's most distinctive pieces of public art.The centerpiece of South Main Plaza is a playful fountain featuring 18 painted cast-aluminum dog sculptures, each representing a different breed. The dogs gather around the fountain and look toward a golden bone at the center, creating a charming scene that is especially fun for dog lovers and families. The fountain also includes a variety o...
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By inboundREM Market Updates
(InboundREM)
Your Guide to Western Hills Homes for SaleThe Cincinnati real estate market is constantly evolving, but few areas offer the enduring character and value found on the city’s west side. If you have been searching for Western Hills homes for sale, you likely already know that this region is defined by its rolling terrain, historic architecture, and a deep-seated sense of community. As a local realtor who has spent years helping families navigate the streets of Westwood, Price Hill, and Bridgetown, I’ve seen firsthand why this area remains a top choice for both first-time buyers and seasoned homeowners. In 2026, the market is presenting unique opportunities for those who know where to look, combining the charm of established neighborhoods with a surprisingly modern pace of growth.Understand...
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By Sam Cooper, Sam Cooper Howard Hanna Real Estate
(Howard Hanna Real Estate)
  Sam Cooper Realtor & Team Howard Hanna Real Estate #1 Large Team — Howard Hanna Ohio Top Team Since 2014 Columbus Ohio Real Estate Why the Realtor You Choose in ColumbusCan Make or Break Your Transaction Sam Cooper Realtor & Team  •  Columbus, Ohio  •  ActiveRain Blog   ★ #1 Large Team Howard Hanna — Ohio Statewide ✓ TrendGraphix • RealTrends Columbus MLS Verified ● Top Team — Pickerington Consecutively Since 2014 ● Top Team — Reynoldsburg Consecutively Since 2014 Columbus is not a forgiving market if you show up unprepared. Whether you are buying your first home in Clintonville, selling a property in Dublin, or relocating from out of state, the agent representing you will have a direct impact on your outcome — not just your experience, but your actual dollars. That distinction matter...
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By Danielle Vinson, Confident Decisions. Exceptional Results.
(Plum Tree Realty)
Do You Have to Sell the House During Probate in Ohio?If you’re going through probate and there’s a home involved, one of the first questions most families ask is:“Do we have to sell the house?”In Ohio, the answer is often: it depends—but not for the reasons most people think.Before we dive in: I’m Danielle Vinson, a Southwest Ohio real estate expert. I’m not an attorney, and I’m not offering legal advice. Probate rules can vary by situation, so it’s always important to follow your probate attorney’s guidance. What I can do is help you understand the real-world options families commonly have when a home is involved.And if you’re reading this because you’ve recently lost someone—I’m truly sorry. Probate can feel overwhelming, especially when a house is part of the estate. My goal is to br...
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By Danielle Vinson, Confident Decisions. Exceptional Results.
(Plum Tree Realty)
Should You Sell in 2026 or Wait? How to Know What’s Right for You.If you’re waiting for the “perfect” market to sell your home, you might be waiting longer than you need to.I’m Danielle Vinson, your Southwest Ohio real estate expert, and my goal here isn’t to rush you or push you into a decision. It’s to help you think clearly—so you can decide what’s right for you, not what the headlines are shouting this week.Because selling a home is a big deal. And for a lot of homeowners, it feels heavy… not because they don’t have information, but because the home holds memories, seasons of life, and emotional weight.If you’ve been feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure about whether to sell or wait—you’re not behind. You’re human.Clarity doesn’t come from pressure.It comes from asking the right qu...
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By Danielle Vinson, Confident Decisions. Exceptional Results.
(Plum Tree Realty)
2025 Wasn’t a Crash Year, It Was a Strategy YearWhat the Southwest Ohio Housing Market Means for Sellers in 2026If you’re a homeowner in Southwest Ohio, here’s the truth about 2025:It was not a crash year. It was a strategy year. Despite alarming headlines and uncertainty around interest rates, home prices in most areas held strong. Inventory shifted, buyers became more selective, and the homes that sold weren’t the ones that “tested the market.” They were the ones that were priced correctly and positioned intentionally from the start.I’m Danielle Vinson, your Southwest Ohio real estate expert, and this market recap breaks down exactly what happened in 2025 across Greater Cincinnati and Dayton — and more importantly, what it means if you’re thinking about selling in 2026.Southwest Ohio ...
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By Danielle Vinson, Confident Decisions. Exceptional Results.
(Plum Tree Realty)
Buying a Home Feels Overwhelming. Here’s Where to Start.Most buyers don’t struggle because of the market. They struggle because no one showed them where to start.If you are thinking about buying a home and feeling overwhelmed, you are not alone. I hear this all the time from buyers across Southwest Ohio, especially from people who have been scrolling online for months and still feel unsure about what to do first.That is exactly why I created a short video walking through the first steps smart buyers take before they ever tour a home. You can watch it here.Below, I want to break those steps down in plain language, without pressure or jargon.Step One. Get Financially Clear Without Committing to BuyOne of the biggest misconceptions I see is around pre approval.Many buyers avoid this step b...
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By Real Estate Broker Cape Cod Heath Coker Falmouth, Heath Coker
(https://capegroup.com)
Setting a FSBO Timeline to Sell Your HouseWhat is my ideal timeline for listing and moving as a FSBO seller?A clear timeline keeps your FSBO sale from running your life. Start with your move‑out deadline, then work backward. Decide when you want the house to hit the market. Then choose dates for cleaning, repairs, staging, and photos. Most buyers search online first, so you want everything ready before you go live. A simple calendar, even on your phone, can keep you organized.Think in small steps. Pick a weekend to declutter each room. Choose one day for deep cleaning and yard work. Schedule a photographer at least a week before your listing date. If you plan to use 3D tours or drone photos, build in extra time. If your goal is to sell fast, your timeline might be tight and focused. If ...
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By Danielle Vinson, Confident Decisions. Exceptional Results.
(Plum Tree Realty)
Five Common Issues For Sale By Owner Sellers Face and How to Fix Them EarlyMany homeowners across Southwest Ohio choose to start by selling their home For Sale By Owner (FSBO).Some sell successfully.Others get stuck, overwhelmed, or frustrated.In most cases, the difference isn’t effort or motivation, it’s information.After working with hundreds of homeowners in Clermont County and throughout Southwest Ohio, I’ve noticed the same challenges come up again and again for FSBO sellers. Understanding these issues early can help you protect your time, your energy, and ultimately your bottom line.1. FSBO Pricing Based on Emotion Instead of Buyer BehaviorOne of the biggest challenges FSBO sellers face is pricing their home correctly.It’s natural to think about what you need from the sale or what...
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By Danielle Vinson, Confident Decisions. Exceptional Results.
(Plum Tree Realty)
❓ What Is an “Expired Listing”?An expired listing is a home that was on the market but didn’t sell before the listing agreement expired. It can feel confusing  and even discouraging as a seller. But more often than not, the reason isn’t because your home wasn’t sellable it’s because something in the strategy didn’t connect with the right buyer at the right time.In the video, I break down the common causes I see in our Southwest Ohio market and how we can fix them.📉 Common Reasons Listings ExpireHere are the top issues that frequently keep homes from selling  and why most of them are strategic, not personal:1. Price Doesn’t Match Current Market RealityPricing too high at the start often results in low showings and decreased interest over time.2. Marketing Doesn’t Reach Today’s BuyersOutd...
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By Christopher Lotte, Real Broker Technologies, 614-390-9243
(Real Brokerage Technologies)
Amsterdam, Ohio Real Estate Market GuideThinking about a move to Amsterdam, Ohio? This small Carroll County village has an easygoing, country feel with quick access to bigger-town amenities in Carrollton, Steubenville, and the Ohio River corridor. If you’re looking for a place where neighbors still wave, porches matter, and weekend plans can be as simple as a hike, a ball game, or a backyard cookout, Amsterdam fits the bill. Below you’ll find a local-expert overview of Amsterdam Ohio real estate—from the pace of the Amsterdam housing market to lifestyle, neighborhoods, schools/parks, commute tips, and practical advice for both buyers and sellers. When you’re ready to start your property search, you can always tap into our full home search powered by Local Real Estate Online for the late...
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By Christopher Lotte, Real Broker Technologies, 614-390-9243
(Real Brokerage Technologies)
Alliance, Ohio Real Estate Market GuideSet at the crossroads of Stark County and Columbiana County, Alliance, Ohio blends small-city convenience with tree-lined neighborhoods, a vibrant campus scene, and quick routes to larger job centers. Whether you’re eyeing your first place, moving up for more space, or planning a strategic sale, the Alliance Ohio real estate landscape offers variety—historic homes, tidy ranches, and pockets of newer construction—without sacrificing value. Use this guide for a grounded read on the Alliance housing market, everyday lifestyle, and practical tips for buyers and sellers. When you’re ready, explore a full home search powered by Local Real Estate Online at LocalRealEstateOnline.com.Market SnapshotAs of Q4 2025, Alliance feels stable and steadily active. S...
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By Christopher Lotte, Real Broker Technologies, 614-390-9243
(Real Brokerage Technologies)
Adena, Ohio Real Estate Market GuideLooking for a small-town setting with quick connections to bigger job centers? Adena, Ohio sits along the Harrison–Jefferson county line in the Ohio Valley, where front-porch living, roomy lots, and easy drives to Steubenville, Cadiz, and the Wheeling/St. Clairsville area create a sweet spot for value and lifestyle. In this guide, you’ll find a grounded look at the Adena, Ohio real estate scene—how the market feels right now, what kinds of homes you’ll see, where locals spend their weekends, and practical tips for buying or selling. Use it as your starting point, then keep exploring with a full home search powered by Local Real Estate Online at LocalRealEstateOnline.com.Market SnapshotAs of Q4 2025, Adena’s housing market reads like classic small-town...
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