If you’re going to buy in Columbus, you should know all the facts

Different areas have different trends and audiences

Columbus is full of diverse properties and culture. There is a variety of different neighborhoods with a fun twist for your upcoming investment. So if you’re thinking of moving there, it would be handy to know everything there is to know about the real estate scene.

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The good news is that the overall housing sales are rising. According to Trulia, there has been a 12% increase in median house sales.In Addition, Columbus has been named amongst the best city in the U.S. for real estate investment in 2018! In a study just released by Renoviso, they compared factors like CAP rate, job growth ranking, population growth percent and single-family home price to determine the best possible markets for investors in the coming year.   Obviously, Columbus has something to offer for anyone buying a home. We are going to highlight a few communities for any type of home buyer in Ohio’s state capital.

Downtown Columbus

The Lowdown

Downtown might be best known as the business center of Columbus, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t have some great options for those looking for true city living. It has public parks, a riverfront, and a skyline. Pick a place on a vibrant corner or relocate to a secluded spot. Downtown has plenty of both. For the college student, there are well-established universities such as the Columbus College of Art & Design, Columbus State Community College and Franklin University. They love Burger Theory; it’s the perfect place to get a cheap meal and drinks with friends.   

Downtown is also family friendly. Blessed Cookie Co is an adorable ice cream/dessert shop to have some family bonding time while feeding your sweet tooth. With countless museums and landmarks in the core downtown area, there is a long and beautiful history in this part of the state so you might as well take the time to explore.

Ideal Buyer

College students: There are so many opportunities for you to thrive and make the college experience memorable!  

Young workers/college grads: This is the time to work hard but still go out and have a great time, and this is a great place to begin this chapter of your life.

Retirees: The culture and history of Downtown is just begging you to explore and appreciate all it has to offer.   

Median Home Price

Buyers in this neighborhood should look to spend an average of $350,000 for a chance at true, vertical urban living.

Short North

The Lowdown

This area of Columbus is all about the arts and culture and has grown to be a hotspot for artists and craft breweries. The Sherrie Gallerie is a hot spot to see some amazing art. There is always something happening on this side of town which makes it a very exciting area to live in.  

This area of Columbus includes the Italian Village (which is on the East side) and the Victorian Village (which is on the west side). These villages give a cute small town vibe while in a big city.  While you’re there, Don’t forget to check out the nice craft beer scene. This is a great place to go if you want to try out some new flavors!

Ideal Buyers

Newlyweds: Couples who aren’t ready to settle down can enjoy all of the culture and night scene that Short North has to offer!

Entrepreneurs: There are so many small business that are thriving. It would be a great place to begin a new adventure.

Art Enthusiasts: Art is a central part of this area of Columbus. There is so many beautiful art galleries and show venues to check out in your free time!   

Median Home Price

Potential buyers can expect to pay an average of 450,000 to get the true artisan living experience.

Columbus South

The Lowdown

Columbus South, also known as “Southside” or the “South End” has a nice cozy vibe! This area of Columbus has the brewery district, German Village and the Livingston Avenue Area. If you’re looking for community, this is the area to look into. There are schools, small businesses, and community events to enjoy. It is a very relaxed area, without the hustle and bustle of the city.

For families, there are businesses like Clayspace, where you can tap into your inner artist and have a fun evening out.

The German Village has parks and cute little art galleries to enjoy. Places like Art Outside the Lines has a variety of different services. There is art classes, a yoga studio and different artist features.   

Ideal Buyers

Families: This is a great, affordable place for families to raise their kids

Retirees: South End is a quiet area with strong community ties. There are wonderful organizations to get involved in with plenty of events to keep you occupied.

Empty Nesters: Looking to downsize? When the kids move out, it’s time to relax and spend some time with people that don’t require a curfew.  

Median Home Price

To buy a house in this area, expect to spend around 350,000.

East Side

The Lowdown

The East Side of Columbus is wonderful because of its diversity and history. The East Broad Street Historic District, Olde Towne East and Woodland Park all reside in this neighborhood. If diversity is what you’re looking for in a neighborhood, this is the place for you. The East Broad Street Historic District was placed on the National Register of Historical Places in 1987. This part of Ohio is very close to the bustle of downtown, without actually being in downtown.

Woodland Park is surrounded by townhouses and residential life. We also can’t forget the awesome history behind the park,like that Woodland Park was the home to many of the founders of Columbus!

Ideal Buyers

Families: The community vibe is strong in this neighborhood, and that is essential in an area to raise a family.

Young Adults: This area is affordable and fun to live in with resources and plenty of commerce.  

College Students: The East Side isn’t far from downtown, so student living would be ideal. It is far away enough from the action to study but close enough to have a good time.   

Median Home Price

The average price in this area is 55,000.

Franklinton & Hilltop

The Lowdown

Franklinton has a history that is very important to the city of Columbus. Franklinton was the very first settlement of Columbus. So, if you’re interested in crazy Columbus history, this is the place to go. Franklinton dining and small businesses all veer towards the casual side. However, there is an art scene that has open galleries all year long. If you’re ever in the neighborhood, check out 400 West Rich St, it is an art studio with fun classes in not only art, but aerial silks!

Hilltop was also founded during the same time and has the same vibe as Franklinton. They’re right next to each other, and you can’t experience one without the other!  

Ideal Buyers

Young Couples: This is a great place to start building a life with your partner.

College Grads: Once graduation day comes, you have debt up to your ears. These neighborhoods are great for saving a little cash for those student loan payments!

Those Looking to Renovate: This is the ultimate opportunity to make a house a home!

Median Home Price

To live in Franklinton and Clintonville, expect to spend around 41,000.

Clintonville

The Lowdown

Clintonville is known for great housing, schools and social life. It’s a nice urban area with loads of potential to be your next home! For families, there are schools for every level of education that you need, public and private. Signature Wines is a nice winery for parents when they need to get away for an evening. They have social events and personalized labels just for you!

Easton Town Center is your ultimate shopping experience for all ages. It is a fun way to spend an afternoon away from responsibilities. There is plenty of commerce around, so there are plenty of things to do, you’ll never be bored!    

Ideal Buyers

Families: The school district is very well-known, and it would be an awesome place to start a family!

Middle Agers: This is a nice area to settle down after the kids are all adulting on their own.

Retirees: There are plenty of events to go to and a nice area to explore and if that doesn’t interest you, there are plenty of quiet areas as well.

Median Home Price

Potential buyers can expect to pay approximately 147,000 to get the true Clintonville experience.

Northwest

The Lowdown

Northwest Columbus is a very well-maintained area. The atmosphere is very communal and friendly. This includes a neighborhood called Harrison West. Both of these areas work together to create a very fun atmosphere for residents. Harrison West has a neighborhood society where they put out events and keep residents informed about the happenings going on. Northwest also has a decent nightlife scene as well. There are some very highly recommended sports bars like U.A Pub and CBUS Sports Pub.

Ideal Buyers

Athletes: There are so many races that go through this area. There is no such thing as an off season!

Small Towners: This close knit community gives the impression of a small town but you also have the resources of Columbus to enjoy!  

Volunteer Lovers: There is a group of neighbors that love to help service the community, and I’m sure they can always use an extra helping hand.

Median Home Price

The potential buyer can expect to pay around 174,000.

University District

The Lowdown

The university district is a very hot place for sports fans. University District is right around the corner from Ohio State Stadium along with countless other sports venues. There are various colleges scattered in this area (hence the very appropriate name). Since this is a very college heavy area, the night life is very vibrant. There are countless sports bars and clubs to check out and explore.  

This area also has a chill side to it too. Glen Echo is a part of this neighborhood and it gives the resident a little break from the action. There is a beautiful park that can give anyone some piece of mind.  

Ideal Buyers

College Students: It’s no secret, college students love to party, especially when their college teams are kicking butt.

Socialites: The bar scene is incredible, and it is the perfect neighborhood to meet some interesting people.

Sports Fans: With all of the sports hype, it is the perfect place to be an Ohio State fan!

Median Home Price

Homeowners can expect to pay around 152,000.

Things like diversity, culture and community help make a house a home. Columbus, OH offers a place for anyone with any budget, and don’t worry, HER has the resources that can make that happen.

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