Why Brave the Cold and Look for a Home in the Winter?

 

Why Winter 2026 Is a Smart Time to Buy a Home in Hilliard, Upper Arlington, Dublin & Columbus

If you’ve been waiting for the “right time” to start house hunting in Hilliard, Upper Arlington, Dublin, or Columbus, Winter 2026 may be your advantage. While most buyers plan for spring, informed buyers know the best opportunities often show up in the colder months. In fact, the winter housing market can offer more flexibility, less competition, and better negotiating conditions.

Whether you're planning a move, downsizing, or buying your first home, here’s why Winter 2026 is a strategic time to shop for real estate in Central Ohio.

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1. Less Competition From Other Buyers

The winter real estate season in Columbus typically brings fewer active buyers—especially compared to the spring surge. That benefits you by:

• Reducing bidding wars

• Increasing negotiation power

• Allowing more time to consider homes

In areas like Dublin and Upper Arlington, where homes often sell fast in spring, winter gives serious buyers a real edge.

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2. Motivated Sellers = Better Negotiating Power

Sellers who list in the winter usually have a reason to sell—job changes, relocation, downsizing, or timing needs. For buyers, that can translate into:

• Lower prices or more flexible offers

• Potential closing cost assistance

• Willingness to negotiate repairs or timelines

This is especially helpful in competitive areas like Hilliard and Dublin, where negotiating is harder in peak season.

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3. More Time to Shop & Make Smart Decisions

In spring, homes in Columbus can go in days. Winter offers a calmer pace, giving you time to:

• Schedule second showings

• Compare neighborhoods like Hilliard vs. Upper Arlington

• Review inspections without pressure

• Make thoughtful financial decisions

Buying a home shouldn’t feel rushed. Winter helps you stay in control.

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4. See How a Home Performs in Real Winter Weather

Looking at homes in January shows you things summer can’t—especially in Ohio. Winter helps reveal:

• Drafts, insulation issues & heating efficiency

• Roof or gutter concerns

• Road, driveway, and snow removal conditions

• Noise and traffic levels when schools and routines are active

If a home in Dublin, Hilliard, or Upper Arlington handles winter well, it will likely shine the rest of the year.

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5. Faster Access to Vendors & Services

In winter, inspectors, lenders, movers, and contractors often have more availability. That means:

• Faster inspections and appraisals

• Quicker contractor estimates

• Easier scheduling for closing

This can allow for smoother transactions in the Columbus metro area.

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6. Be Settled by Spring 2026

Looking in winter positions you to:

• Close early in 2026

• Settle in before school registration deadlines

• Enjoy your new home by spring and summer

Instead of entering the spring competition, you’ll already be moved in and enjoying it.

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Final Thoughts

If you’re planning a move in Dublin, Hilliard, Upper Arlington, or Columbus, don’t wait for spring to get started. Winter 2026 offers serious advantages—less competition, motivated sellers, and a more thoughtful buying process.

✨ Sometimes the best time to buy is when everyone else is sitting on the sidelines.

This home emits sunshine! 3617 Heywood Hilliard Ohio 43026 Open Sunday 2-4pm December 6, 2025

 

A Real Story From the Columbus Real Estate Market

 

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🎯 What Happens When Back-to-Back Closings Almost Fall Apart? A Real Story from the Columbus Real Estate Market

Buying and selling a home at the same time can be exciting—but when one small hiccup causes a domino effect, it takes an experienced Realtor to hold it all together.

This week, I had one of the most challenging real estate transactions in my 41+ years—and it reminded me just how much is at stake when clients are doing a back-to-back closing.

The Plan: Sell and Buy on the Same Day

My client was selling his home and purchasing a new one—both scheduled to close on the same day. This type of transaction requires precise coordination between title companies, lenders, moving trucks, utility transfers, and, most importantly, people's lives.

He took time off work to move.
Movers were booked.
Utilities were already switched.
The buyer of his old home had been granted early possession—so there was no room for error.

Everything was lined up perfectly… until it wasn’t.

The Problem: A Last-Minute Delay from the Lender

Just a few days before closing, we were told by the buyer’s lender:

“We’re not going to make Thursday’s closing. We’ll just push it to Monday. No big deal.”

“No big deal?” It was a very big deal.

📦 The moving truck was already scheduled.
⏰ My client had taken two days off work.
⚡ Utilities had already been transferred.
🏠 Two families were depending on that closing happening on time.

To say I was frustrated would be an understatement.

The Scramble: Saving the Deal

After multiple tense calls and emails, the lender agreed to push closing up to Friday—but then delayed sending the loan documents until 15 minutes before the title company closed for the weekend.

I had our title rep on standby, waiting to make the closing happen. If they hadn’t gone above and beyond to help, this deal could have fallen apart—leaving both families in limbo.

The Result: It Closed… Barely

We made it. Barely. But only because every experienced professional involved did their part—except the lender, who only pulled through at the final second and then had the nerve to text me:

"It’s at the finish line… it’s happening."

Like he had just performed a miracle instead of doing the job he had committed to days ago.

The Takeaway: Timing Is Everything—and So Is Experience

If you’re planning to sell your home and buy a new one on the same day, don’t underestimate the complexity of what’s involved. These back-to-back transactions require:

✅ Expert planning
✅ Seamless communication between all parties
✅ A Realtor who knows what to do when things go sideways

This is why experience matters. It’s not just about showing houses—it’s about protecting your time, your money, and your peace of mind.

Thinking About Moving?

If you’re considering buying and selling in Columbus, Hilliard, Dublin, Worthington, or Upper Arlington, and want someone who will go to bat for you when it counts, let’s talk. I’ve helped thousands of families navigate the process—and I’d love to help you, too.

📞 614-572-5775 Contact me anytime for expert advice, market insights, and a plan you can trust.

#ColumbusRealEstate #BackToBackClosing #BuyAndSellSameDay #HilliardHomes #DublinOHRealEstate #MovingDayChallenges #ExperiencedRealtor #RealEstateTips #TitleCompanyMatters #HomeBuyingAndSelling #OhioRealtor

New Listing in Gated Community in Blacklick

 

🏡 Luxury Home for Sale in Blacklick, Ohio | $1,220,000 | 7735 Clear Creek Ct

Gated Estate Home | Over 6,000 Sq Ft | Private Cul-de-Sac Lot | Prestigious Clear Creek Crossing

If you're searching for luxury homes for sale over $1,000,000 in the U.S., this stunning estate in Blacklick, Ohio should be at the top of your list. Tucked into the exclusive, gated community of Clear Creek Crossing, 7735 Clear Creek Ct offers over 6,000 square feet of custom-designed living space, unmatched privacy, and high-end finishes throughout.

Whether you’re relocating to Ohio, upgrading locally, or investing in a luxury property near Columbus, this home is the ultimate blend of sophistication, comfort, and grandeur.

✨ 7735 Clear Creek Ct at a Glance:

• Price: $1,220,000

• Square Footage: 6,000+

• Bedrooms: 4

• Bathrooms: 5.5

• Lot: Private, wooded cul-de-sac

• Garage: 3-car attached

• Community: Gated Clear Creek Crossing, Blacklick, OH

🏠 Grand Design & Elegant Details

From the moment you enter the dramatic two-story foyer, you’ll be greeted by gleaming hardwood floors, custom trim, and an abundance of natural light. A richly appointed home office, formal dining room, and stunning great room with a wall of windows set the tone for refined living.

This luxury home combines classic architecture with modern finishes, offering the perfect layout for both entertaining and day-to-day living.

🍽️ Show-Stopping Chef’s Kitchen

The newly renovated crisp white kitchen is a dream for anyone who loves to cook or host:

• Granite countertops

• Oversized center island

• High-end stainless steel appliances

• Abundant cabinetry & butler’s pantry

• Casual dining space

• Four-season room with panoramic wooded views

Whether you’re whipping up a gourmet meal or hosting a holiday brunch, this kitchen is designed to impress.

🛏️ Ideal Multi-Generational Layout

• Main Floor In-Law Suite: Perfect for guests or multigenerational living

• Luxurious Owner’s Suite (Upstairs): Vaulted ceilings, spa-like en suite with dual vanities, soaking tub, oversized shower, and a massive walk-in closet

• Two Additional Upper-Level Bedrooms with private access to baths

• Bonus Room/Flex Space: Great for a playroom, lounge, or home gym

🎉 Finished Lower Level with Endless Possibilities

If you need space to entertain, unwind, or create your dream rec room, the finished lower level has it all:

• Full wet bar

• Media/recreation room

• Full bathroom

• Additional storage rooms

🌳 Outdoor Oasis

Enjoy peace and privacy in your own backyard retreat.
The professionally landscaped lot features an expansive brick patio with tree-lined views and plenty of space for outdoor dining, lounging, or enjoying the tranquil surroundings.

🔐 Gated Community Living in Central Ohio

Clear Creek Crossing is one of Central Ohio’s most prestigious gated neighborhoods, offering security, serenity, and beautifully maintained surroundings. Located just outside Columbus in Blacklick, it provides easy access to New Albany, Gahanna, and John Glenn Columbus International Airport — making it ideal for executives, professionals, and families alike.

📍 Why 7735 Clear Creek Ct is a Must-See Luxury Property

✅ Gated estate community
✅ Over 6,000 square feet of finished space
✅ 4 bedrooms, 5.5 baths
✅ New white chef’s kitchen
✅ Finished lower level with wet bar
✅ Three-car garage
✅ Located on a private wooded cul-de-sac
✅ Close to Columbus, OH – ideal for luxury commuters

📞 Schedule Your Private Tour Today

Opportunities like this don’t come around often. Whether you’re seeking a million-dollar home in Ohio, a luxury property in the Midwest, or simply looking for privacy and space in a gated community, 7735 Clear Creek Ct checks every box.

Contact The Susan Wainfor Team today to schedule your private showing:
📱 Call or text: 614-572-5775
📧 Email: Susan@SusanWainfor.com
🌐 Learn more: SusanWainfor.com

Selling Your Home with Susan's Team

 

Thinking About Selling Your Home in Columbus, Ohio? Here’s Why Now Might Be the Perfect Time

If you live in Dublin, Hilliard, Worthington, Upper Arlington, or anywhere in the Columbus, Ohio metro area, and you're thinking about selling your home—you're in the right place.

At Susan Wainfor Team Excellence, we’ve helped thousands of homeowners list and sell their properties for top dollar. In fact, we’ve sold over 4,000 homes in Central Ohio—and counting. With 41 years of experience, our team knows the market inside and out, and our strategies are built to make selling your home stress-free, profitable, and quick.

Why List Now in Central Ohio?

📈 Strong Buyer Demand: Despite market fluctuations, buyers are still actively looking in key areas like Dublin, Hilliard, Worthington, and Upper Arlington. These neighborhoods continue to attract relocation buyers, families looking for great schools, and professionals seeking a quick commute to downtown Columbus.

🏡 Lower Inventory = More Leverage: This is changing ever so slightly. The number of available homes is still relatively low, especially in desirable zip codes. That gives sellers a distinct advantage—less competition means your home stands out.

💰 Our Stats Don’t Lie:

• Homes listed with our team sell faster than the Columbus average.

• Our listings often sell for 98–102% of asking price.

• Our marketing reach is massive, with thousands of eyes on each new listing within hours.

• We have a deep buyer network, which means many homes are sold with multiple offers.

What Sets Our Team Apart?

✅ Experience That Pays Off: With decades in the business, we’ve navigated every type of market. We know how to price, prep, and present your home to get the best results—no guesswork, no fluff.

✅ Full-Service Listing Approach: From pre-listing prep and staging advice to professional photography and negotiation expertise, we handle every step with care and precision.

✅ Top 1% in Columbus Real Estate: You deserve a team that doesn’t just do volume—we deliver results, integrity, and outstanding communication.

✅ We Know This Market: Whether it’s a brick ranch in Hilliard, a modern condo in Upper Arlington, or a historic gem in Worthington, we know how to position your home for its best showing.

Ready to Start a Conversation?

Let’s talk about your home’s potential in today’s market. Whether you're just exploring your options or ready to list this month, we’ll guide you through it all—honestly, efficiently, and with zero pressure.

📍 Schedule a free home consultation today with Susan Wainfor Team Excellence.

📞 Call or text us: 614-572-5775
📧 Email: susanwainfor@gmail.com
🌐 Visit: MemoriesBeginAtHome.com