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COLUMBUS URBAN REAL ESTATE
FEATURED NEIGHBORHOODS
TESTIMONIALS
- Karin CashJoe has one reason to help you. He is a professional. He has seen it all, he knows who to call, financing, the markets, pricing and lenders. Dont call your brother in law who is starting out. Call Joe and use his knowledge to help you get the best value for what is often your most valuable asset. Ive known him for 15 years and he has served hundreds of buyers and sellers.
- joe saukLove working with Joe and his clients great Realtor in Columbus Ohio
- Lindsey WiggersJoe was such a help as we were looking to buy an investment property. He was easy to communicate with, always available and was super quick to answer questions, share feedback, etc. My husband and I will definitely recommend Joe to friends in the market!
- Dina S.We wanted to work with a realtor who lives and works in our neighborhood and understands the condo market. We read many reviews and decided on Joseph versus a realtor we’d worked with before from outside our sale area. We feel that it was a great decision because Joseph understands the market and advised us how to price appropriately. We sold quickly. The whole process was efficient and Joseph’s communication was great!
- Joe FerraraI've experienced many a real estate agents in my time....from NJ to Florida to Virginia to Ohio.......We were in a rush to find a suitable place to live in Columbus. Do we rent or buy? It was daunting.......My wife searched for a real estate agent and voila...Joe Speakman came up. We read his reviews and decided to give him a call. It was one of the best calls we ever made honestly. Our first conversation with Joe sealed it. He was professional, knowledgeable and friendly. He immediately started to send us listings and possible rentals. Once we traveled there and met him, we were taken to a number of properties and Joe gave us a tour of Columbus which gave us a better idea on what the area was all about. After seeing numerous homes for sale and rentals it made sense to purchase. Thanks to Joe, we found a home that was perfect for my son and daughter-in-law. Close to OSU and in a wonderful neighborhood. He guided us through every step of the process and was available ALWAYS. Joe Speakman is a dedicated, hard-working agent who will do what it takes to find you a property that you will be comfortable with. His honesty and devotion to the business is something that is hard to find these days. If you want an agent who will work overtime for YOU and not stop until he gets you what you want, then give him a chance. You won't be sorry!
- Jimmy FerraraMy partner and I recently had the pleasure of working with Joseph Speakman, and we couldn’t have asked for a more compassionate and dedicated professional to help us find our first home! From start to finish, Joe went above and beyond to make our home-buying journey as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Coming from across the country with only two months before starting my new job, I knew it was going to be very difficult—almost impossible—to find a house, let alone a “dream house," given these challenges. Joe got it done for us! From our very first meeting, Joe impressed us with his genuine kindness and attentiveness. He took the time to truly understand our needs and preferences, never making us feel rushed or pressured. While we were out-of-state, we had to start our house search online. When we contacted Joe about a prospective house, to our surprise, he immediately got on his motorcycle and drove to the property to film a live virtual showing for us. I have never had a realtor do this for me before. Joe even took the time to drive around the neighborhoods to give us a sense of the house's surroundings. Joe was incredibly patient, answering all our questions and providing thoughtful guidance at every step of the house search. One of the things that stood out the most was Joe’s caring approach. He made us feel like we were his top priority, showing empathy and support throughout the entire process. Whether it was calming our nerves during negotiations or celebrating with us when we found "the one," Joe was there with a smile and a reassuring word. He also included my parents in the buying process and maintained communication between all of us. This is much harder than it sounds with four different opinions coming from different directions. Joe became our voice of reason and a true leader in narrowing down our decisions as a family. We eventually honed in on Victorian Village in Columbus as our number one neighborhood. Joe took this to heart and decided he would not stop until we had our ideal home, regardless of the challenging housing market. His deep knowledge of the local market and attention to detail ensured that we not only found a beautiful home but also made a sound investment. In fact, Joe advised us against a house with a higher asking price because he didn’t think it was a reasonable purchase for our situation. This is true kindness and shows that he did not become a realtor for financial reasons; he really enjoys his work and the clients he takes such good care of. When we finally made an in-person visit to the house we planned to make an offer on, he was there to answer all our questions, from flooring adjustments to appliance quality, as well as HVAC and water heater ages and HOA details. In the end, we were consistently impressed by his professionalism and dedication, and we truly felt that Joe had our best interests at heart. We are now happily settled into our new home, and we owe so much of that to Joe’s exceptional service. Joe even bought us Ohio State shirts to welcome us to the area, and we celebrated at dinner in town. In addition, Joe personally made sure the house was spotless before we arrived by hiring a cleaning service and removing old paint cans from the basement by himself! He also lent his ladder and tools when we moved in and he is still available for questions while we get settled. I definitely trust Joe—and not just as a businessman but as a new friend. If you’re looking for a realtor who combines expertise with genuine care and kindness, we wholeheartedly recommend Joe. He made our home-buying experience a memorable and positive one, and we couldn’t be more grateful. Thank you, Joe, for everything you’ve done for us! Warmest regards, The Ferrara Family
- jimfer2613My partner and I recently worked with Joseph Speakman and couldn't have asked for a more dedicated professional to help us find our first home. From start to finish, Joe made our home-buying journey smooth and enjoyable. Relocating across the country with only two months before starting my new job, finding a home seemed nearly impossible, but Joe made it happen. From our initial meeting, Joe impressed us with his kindness and attentiveness. He took the time to understand our needs without rushing us. Despite being out-of-state, Joe conducted live virtual showings and filmed properties, which was exceptional. He even explored neighborhoods for us. Joe’s patience and thoughtful guidance stood out. He made us feel like a priority, showing empathy and support during negotiations and celebrations. He also managed communication between us and my parents, who had different opinions. Joe’s ability to navigate these conversations was invaluable. We focused on Victorian Village in Columbus, and Joe was determined to find us the perfect home despite the challenging market. His knowledge and attention to detail ensured we found a beautiful investment. Joe even advised against a higher-priced house that wasn’t suitable for us, showing his commitment to our best interests. When we visited the house, Joe answered all our questions about flooring, appliances, HVAC, and HOA details. His professionalism and dedication were evident. Now, happily settled into our new home, we are deeply grateful for Joe’s exceptional service. He arranged a cleaning service and removed old paint cans before our arrival. Joe even gave us Ohio State shirts and joined us for a celebratory dinner. He’s still available for questions as we settle in. If you’re looking for a realtor who combines expertise with genuine care, we wholeheartedly recommend Joe. He made our home-buying experience memorable and positive, and we couldn’t be more grateful.
- kathleen foxJoseph Speakman is incredibly knowledgeable about the short north area neighborhoods and real estate market. He’s great to work with, has fabulous resources to share, and will go above and beyond to deliver amazing service!
- Diego “Alexander” Chacon11/10 would work with him again on our next house purchase. Joe was attentive, knowledgeable, and very active in our search. He guided us every step of the way. The home we ended up purchasing wasn’t even on our radar. He was the one who knew about it and suggested it to us and we loved it as soon as we saw it. He guided us every step of the way.
- Amy MJoe was so helpful and knowledgeable!! He walked me through everything and answered my million questions with patience and kindness. Highly recommend!
- Shawn HummellHigh Energy for High Impact. Joseph brings energy, enthusiasm and a "anything is possible" mindset to the partnership with his clients. It is an understatement to say, Joseph will do everything he can to advocate for his clients and ensure a true win-win outcome for each party. Joseph is quick to offer solutions, acts fast, and leverages his entire network to achieve outcomes everyone is proud of and supports. Jospeh approaches his relationships with clients with candor, integrity and transparency, critical ingredients for a successful partnership with any client. If you are looking for an agent who leads, acts, and delivers in the best interests of his clients, Joseph is the clear, unambiguous choice. It's just that simple!
- Mitchell CromptonTremendous help for a first time home buyer. Joe was able to walk me through the entire home buying process and has all the best connections to local experts in the Columbus area.
- Adrian FrederickBy far, Joe is an exceptional agent. He is diligent, hawkish, pays attention to detail, and you really feel like you got value for his services. I am an experienced investor so likely a difficult client. Joe is savvy, responsive, and is always thinking outside the box on how to get a deal done! This makes him investor friendly, home buyer friendly and overall friendly!
- Delores Clark
- McLean FunkJoe is very knowledgable and even easier to work with. It has been a pleasure partnering with him.
- Craig MyersGreat job! I appreciated all the work that Joseph Speakman did to make this sale happen. From the first day that he hand-delivered the comps through the negotiation, and closing, his attention to detail and keeping us informed was excellent.
- Audrey OnyskowJoe is the best!!
- Vanessa MarksIf you need an agent, look no further than Joe Speakman! Joe Speakman! - We absolutely loved working with you and getting to know you. Your personal touches made everything in our home buying/selling journey very easy, built a great trust and we consider you a friend. Working with us to help sell our home for more that we thought was possible was amazing. We’re very excited and love our new home. Thank you for everything!
- Kenneth SchwartzWonderful open house! The house was charming, and Joe provided an excellent experience, highlighting the features of this listing. The open house was complete with live music and an ice cream truck. Just right for a Sunday afternoon. Thanks Joe!
- STUART FRASER
VIDEO GALLERY
Check out our video resources to learn more about the buying and selling process.
RECENT BLOG POSTS
National Association of Realtors (NAR) Settlement
National Association of Realtors (NAR) Settlement
In real estate, continual changes and updates are par for the course. However, some developments bring about more significant shifts than others. On August 17th, 2024, a significant change will occur following a recent National Association of Realtors (NAR) settlement. If you're a buyer or seller, it's crucial to understand how this settlement may impact your real estate endeavors. This blog aims to provide buyers and sellers with a clear overview of upcoming modifications. The NAR Settlement: A Brief Overview The National Association of Realtors has long been a cornerstone in shaping the real estate industry, setting transaction guidelines and standards. However, recent legal discussions have led to a settlement that mandates new practices to increase market transparency and fairness. This settlement will be formally enacted on August 17th, 2024. What Buyers Need to Know For buyers, one of the most fundamental changes revolves around how information is disclosed during the buying process. Traditionally, buyers have relied on their agents for all pertinent details about a property, often without full clarity on the agent's commission structure. 1. Commission Transparency Starting August 17th, 2024, NAR's new guidelines will require full transparency regarding commissions. Previously, commissions were often bundled into the sale price, leaving buyers somewhat in the dark. Now, agents must provide a clear breakdown of commission fees upfront. This level of transparency empowers buyers to negotiate more effectively and ensures they understand exactly where their money is going. 2. Improved Access to Listings Another considerable change is improved access to property listings. Enhanced data-sharing agreements aim to level the playing field, making it easier for buyers to find homes that meet their criteria. This initiative means buyers should have access to more comprehensive databases, giving them a better chance of finding their dream home without redundant searches and limited information. 3. Educational Resource Finally, the settlement includes provisions for increased educational resources for buyers. From first-time homebuyer seminars to detailed guides on navigating the complexities of real estate transactions, these resources are designed to make the process more straightforward and less stressful. What Sellers Need to Know As buyers will see significant changes, sellers must adapt to this new landscape. 1. Transparency in Offers One of the most welcome changes for sellers is the requirement for more transparent offer disclosures. Sellers can now access clearer, more detailed offer sheets, including potential buyers' financial qualifications. This will enable sellers to make more informed decisions when evaluating multiple offers, reducing the risk of setbacks due to financing issues. 2. Commission Structuring For sellers, understanding commission structures will also become easier. The new guidelines mandate that agents must present all commission details openly, including any incentives that could influence their recommendations. As a seller, this empowers you to negotiate the terms more effectively and potentially save on costs. 3. Increased Market Exposure Enhanced MLS (Multiple Listing Service) integrations mean better exposure for your property. By standardizing data and making it more accessible, your property listing will have a broader reach. This effectively increases the pool of prospective buyers, thus giving your property a better chance of selling quickly and at a desirable price. Real Estate News Sector: What This Means for the Market The implications of this settlement extend beyond individual buyers and sellers. These changes signify a more transparent and competitive real estate news sector marketplace. Journalists and analysts will better grasp market dynamics, pricing trends, and the internal workings of real estate transactions. As a result, expect more data-driven reporting and in-depth market analyses. Real estate companies and professionals must adapt swiftly to these new regulations. It may take a few months to understand the full impact, but these changes will likely drive innovations in real estate transactions. Moreover, expect new tools and platforms designed to comply with the latest rules and offer additional value to buyers and sellers. The National Association of Realtors' settlement, taking effect on August 17th, 2024, is a substantial step toward a more transparent, equitable real estate market. Buyers and sellers alike stand to benefit from these changes, provided they stay informed and utilize the resources available to them. A more transparent commission structure, improved access to data, and enhanced educational opportunities are just a few of the positive shifts on the horizon. You can keep abreast of these developments to make the most out of your real estate transactions in this evolving landscape.
MOREWhat Is a Doctor or Physician's Home Loan?
What Is a Doctor or Physician's Home Loan?
Tailored to Unique Financial Profiles High Debt-to-Income Ratio: Many physicians have substantial student loan debt but also have the earning potential to manage it. Doctor Loans often consider this unique financial profile, making homeownership more accessible by factoring in future earning potential. Flexible Down Payment Requirements: Given that many doctors may not have saved enough for a traditional down payment due to student loans or other financial commitments, $0 down or low down payment options are a significant advantage. Customized Terms: Physician loans often come with terms designed around the career trajectory of doctors. This can include features like adjustable payment plans, graduated payment options, or even delayed repayment starts. No Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI): Traditional loans usually require PMI if the down payment is less than 20%. Doctor Loans, recognizing the low default risk among physicians, often waive this requirement, saving doctors money over the life of the loan. Competitive Interest Rates: While rates can vary based on individual circumstances, many doctors find that these specialized loans offer competitive rates, especially when compared to other non-conventional loan types. Streamlined Approval Process: Given the understanding of a doctor's future earning potential, these loans often have a more streamlined approval process. Lenders specializing in doctor loans are familiar with the intricacies of physician compensation structures, making the application process smoother. Career Stage Consideration: Whether you're a resident, fellow, or practicing physician, there are specific loan products designed to match your career stage. This ensures that the financial product aligns with your current income and future earning potential. Let's recap... The Doctor Loan isn't just another mortgage option; it's a financial tool crafted with an understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities that physicians encounter. By offering flexibility in down payments, favorable terms, and recognizing the potential of a doctor's career trajectory, these loans aim to make homeownership a tangible and realistic goal for medical professionals.
MOREIs Wall Street Really Buying All the Homes?
Is Wall Street Really Buying All the Homes?
Let’s be real – buying a home right now is tough. You’re scrolling through listings, rushing to open houses, and maybe even losing out to more competitive offers. Somewhere along the way, you might’ve heard the reason it’s so hard to find a home is because big Wall Street investors are swooping in and snatching up everything in sight.But here’s the thing: that’s mostly a myth. While investors are part of the market, according to Redfin, they’re a relatively small part:Here’s what that means. Five out of every six homes are being purchased by everyday homebuyers like you – not big investors.So, before you get discouraged, let’s take a look at what’s really going on. You might be surprised to learn that Wall Street isn’t the competition you may think it is.Most Investors Are Small Mom-and-PopsMost investors aren’t the mega corporations you’ve probably heard about. In fact, many are your neighbors. A recent report from CoreLogic shows most investors are small, mom-and-pop types who own fewer than 10 properties. They aren’t massive companies with endless resources. Picture your neighbor who has another home they’re renting out or a vacation getaway.Only about 1% of the market is owned by large, mega investors with thousands of properties. The majority are still owned by individuals and smaller investors – not the Wall Street giants.Investor Purchases Are DecliningNot only are most investors small, but overall investor purchases have been on the decline. As the same report from CoreLogic says: “Investors made 80,000 purchases in June 2024, compared with 112,000 in June 2023, and a nearly 50% percent drop from the high of 149,000 purchases in June 2021 . . .”And what does this mean going forward? CoreLogic goes on to point out this downward trend is expected to continue into 2025.So, if it seems like competition with investors is pushing you out of the market, it might help to know that investor activity is actually slowing down.Bottom LineThe idea that Wall Street is buying up all the homes is largely a myth. Most investors are small ones, and the share of homes purchased by investors is declining – so you can take this one off your worry list.If you have questions about the housing market, talk to a local real estate agent. They can explain what’s really happening.
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