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Article: Handling disputed earnest money
by Lorie GarlandAssistant Vice PresidentOhio REALTORS Legal ServicesIn April 2009, a law became… Read More -
Earnest Money Trust Account Articles
Legally Speaking: Title companies holding earnest money(March 16, 2021, Ohio REALTORS Buzz)Five ways… Read More -
The Buzz: Earnest money return clarification
By Peg Ritenour, OAR Vice President of Legal Services/AdministrationOhio House Bill 532 -- which… Read More -
The Buzz: Legally speaking: Can earnest money be applied to my commission?
By Peg Ritenour, OAR Vice President of Legal Services/Administration… Read More -
White Paper: Earnest Money Trust Accounts
I. IntroductionEarnest money deposits are involved in almost every real estate transaction. Although… Read More -
The Buzz: Legally speaking: Returning earnest money someone else fronted
By Peg Ritenour, OAR Vice President of Legal Services/AdministrationQ: I represent a buyer who… Read More -
Article: Earnest Money Legislation
by Peg RitenourVice PresidentOhio REALTORS Legal ServicesThe last several issues of OHIO REALTOR… Read More -
The Buzz: Legally speaking: How to avoid disputes over non-refundable earnest money
By Peg Ritenour, OAR Vice President of Legal Services/Administration… Read More -
Article: Disputed earnest money and unclaimed funds
by Lorie GarlandAssistant Vice PresidentLegal ServicesLast month’s Ohio REALTOR contained an… Read More -
The Buzz: Legally speaking: Does no earnest money = no contract?
By Peg Ritenour, OAR Vice President of Legal Services/Administration… Read More -
The Buzz: Five ways to lose your license over earnest money
By Peg Ritenour, Ohio REALTORS Vice President of Legal Services/Adminstration… Read More -
The Buzz: Simple steps to avoid earnest money violations
By Peg Ritenour, OAR Vice President of Legal Services/AdministrationMishandling earnest money is an… Read More -
The Buzz: More earnest money problems!
By Peg Ritenour, OAR Vice President of Legal Services/AdministrationInsights on some of the recent… Read More -
The Buzz: Legally Speaking: Title companies holding earnest money
By Lorie Garland, Assistant Vice President of Legal Services… Read More -
Earnest Money Trust Accounts
Earnest money deposits are involved in almost every real estate transaction. Although not essential… Read More -
The Buzz: Brokers: Make sure to check trust account by Sept. 1
By Peg Ritenour, Vice President of Legal Services/Administration… Read More -
The Buzz: Legally speaking: Does an earnest money dispute preclude a new contract?
By Peg Ritenour, OAR Vice President of Legal Services/Administration… Read More -
Article: Earnest money sample language available
by Peg RitenourVice PresidentLegal ServicesAs discussed in the last two issues of OHIO REALTOR… Read More -
Earnest Money WP-7 Misrepresentation
Misrepresentation Regarding Earnest MoneyFrequent violations of the license law occur where… Read More -
Article: Law provides options for earnest money disputes
by Peg RitenourVice PresidentLegal ServicesOn Jan. 6, 2009 Governor Strickland signed into law… Read More -
EarnestMoneyWP-2-Deposits
Depositing Earnest MoneyBrokers must deposit earnest money into their trust or special account as… Read More -
HB 532: FAQ...Earnest Money
Under current Ohio law, if a transaction fails to close, the earnest money can only be released… Read More -
The Buzz: Top license law violations reported
By Peg Ritenour, Ohio REALTORS Vice President of Legal Services/Administration… Read More -
Virtual Classroom: 20-Hour Post Licensing for Salespeople
Registration deadline: Thursday, Nov. 13.… Read More -
FAQs: General License Law
Ohio Department of Real Estate & Professional Licensing's sample trust account ledger1. A broker… Read More -
EarnestMoneyWP-4-Interest
Interest on Earnest MoneyOccasionally the parties may want a large earnest money deposit to earn… Read More -
The Buzz: Coaching Corner: Where did my money, my time & my energy go?
By Marilou Butcher RothHere is an example — recurring charges that come out automatically.… Read More -
The Buzz: Legally speaking: 10 things REALTORS shouldn't do
By Peg Ritenour, OAR Vice President of Legal Services/AdministrationEvery REALTOR wants to have a… Read More -
EarnestMoneyWP-9-Unclaimed Funds
Unclaimed Funds LawOhio's unclaimed funds law requires 'holders' of 'unclaimed funds' to submit an… Read More -
VIrtual: Keep More of Your Paycheck: Tax Strategies for Agents
Complimentary recording included w/registration… Read More -
The Buzz: Avoid legal pitfalls when transferring to a new brokerage
By Peg Ritenour, Ohio REALTORS Vice President of Legal Services/Administration… Read More -
Legal Library
Legal articles provided on this website are intended to provide broad, general information about the… Read More -
The Buzz: Legally speaking: Changes to Ohio's Goods Fund law
By Lorie Garland, OAR Assistant Vice President of Legal Services… Read More -
The Buzz: OAR Legal Hotline's 'Top 10': Contract questions
By Peg Ritenour, OAR Vice President of Legal Services/Administration… Read More -
The Buzz: Coaching Corner: Are you ready?
By "Coach" Marilou Butcher RothMany years ago, I was fortunate to cross paths with Jennifer White,… Read More -
The Buzz: Contract questions increase as Ohio housing market heats up
By Peg Ritenour, Ohio REALTORS Vice President of Legal Services/Administration… Read More -
The Buzz: Coaching Corner: Questions for You
By Master Coach Marilou Butcher Roth… Read More -
The Buzz: Coaching Corner: Questions for you!
By "Coach" Marilou Butcher Roth… Read More -
EarnestMoneyWP-3-Non-Refundable Deposits
Seller Holding/Non-Refundable DepositOccasionally a seller (usually a builder or developer) may want… Read More -
EarnestMoneyWP-10-Conclusion
ConclusionAlthough not required by law, earnest money has become a customary part of real estate… Read More -
The Buzz: Coaching Corner: Questions for you!
By Marilou Butcher Roth, Master Coach… Read More -
The Ohio REALTORS Advantage: Member Benefits
The Ohio REALTORS® AdvantageQuick at-a-glance guide to all member benefits.Your membership in… Read More -
The Buzz: Coaching Corner: Is your mind set for success?
By "Coach" Marilou Butcher RothThe new year is rapidly approaching -- before you know it, we will be… Read More -
EarnestMoneyWP-6-Failure to Collect
Failure to Collect/Bounced ChecksIf a check for earnest money is returned for insufficient funds, or… Read More -
EarnestMoneyWP-5-Notes
Promissory NotesUnder Ohio license law a promissory note for earnest money may only be accepted with… Read More -
The Buzz: Is your brokerage compliant with Ohio's trust account requirements?
By Peg Ritenour, OAR Vice President of Legal Services/Administration… Read More -
The Buzz: Ohio REALTORS testify in support of the First Time Homebuyer Savings Act
Ohio REALTORS testified at the Ohio Statehouse in support of Senate Bill 139, the First Time… Read More -
The Buzz: Ohio REALTORS renew push for First-Time Homebuyer Savings Act
Ohio REALTORS strongly supports passage of Senate Bill 24 -- Ohio's First-Time Homebuyer Savings Act… Read More -
The Buzz: Breaking: Ohio Senate Unanimously Passes Senate Bill 155
By Anastasia Kotkovskaya, Manager, Advocacy and ResearchWith a unanimous vote, the Ohio Senate… Read More -
PC Fall 2020-Money, time-saving steps can help you craft a winning bid
Your offer marks the beginning of a back-and-forth between you and the seller, typically with real… Read More -
The Buzz: REALTORS Testify in Support of HB 287
By Anastasia Kotkovskaya, Manager, Advocacy and Research… Read More -
The Buzz: Do email and text messages need to be part of your transaction file?
By Peg Ritenour, Ohio REALTORS Vice President of Legal Services/Administration… Read More -
The Buzz: 4 reasons why money overrides safety in real estate
By Toby Boyce, Special Contributor… Read More -
Prez Column Winter 2019-Make an Offer Like a Boss
These 10 money- and time-saving steps can help you craft a winning bid.Ah, the offer!Your offer… Read More -
Seller Disclosure Law FAQs
Disclosure Form1. I have a mobile home listed for sale. Does the seller have to fill out a seller… Read More -
The Buzz: Legally speaking: What does Ohio license law say about...?
By Peg Ritenour, OAR Vice President of Legal Services/Administration… Read More -
The Buzz: Ohio REALTORS back passage of First-Time Homebuyer Savings Act
Mic Gordon, vice chair of the Ohio REALTORS Enlarged Legislative and Legislative Steering… Read More -
The Buzz: Ohio’s First-Time Home Buyers Savings Act garners support of two key groups
By Beth Wanless, Ohio REALTORS Director of Government Affairs… Read More -
FAQs: Property Management Accounts
1. When do you need a property management trust account?A: Any broker who engages in the management… Read More -
The Buzz: Coaching Corner: Why are you in the business?
By Marilou Butcher RothNow, don't get me wrong, I have encountered agents who are very clear they… Read More -
The Buzz: Coaching Corner: Why are you in the business?
By Marilou Butcher RothNow, don't get me wrong, I have encountered agents who are very clear they… Read More -
The Buzz: Coaching Corner: I do!
By Marilou Butcher Roth, Master Coach… Read More -
The Buzz: Ohio REALTORS voice strong support for First-Time Homebuyer Savings Act
Ohio REALTORS President Seth Task and Legislative Steering Committee Chair Michelle Billings offer… Read More -
The Buzz: Potential scam complaint site is targeting Ohio agents
By Carl HorstThe emails refer to a website -- Realtor-complaints.com -- that purportedly publishes… Read More -
The Buzz: House Bill 126 needed to stop unnecessary costs to property owners
By Scott Williams, Ohio REALTORS CEO, & Steve Stivers, President & CEO of the Ohio Chamber… Read More -
Prez Column: 35 money-saving household tips
Adopt a few of these home tips to find a bit more cash each month.Your house gives you so much:… Read More -
The Buzz: Just $20 a Day Can Set Ohioans Up for Homeownership
By Melissa Dittmann Tracey, Guest Contributor… Read More -
The Buzz: Ohio Local Boards receive NAR Sustainability Grants, Deadline for 2023 Grant Applications is May 31
By Veronica Cardello, Director of Local Government Affairs… Read More -
The Buzz: Ohio Local Boards receive NAR Sustainability Grants, Deadline for 2023 Grant Applications is May 31
By Veronica Cardello, Director of Local Government Affairs… Read More -
The Buzz: Text messages can form contract
Two courts from Massachusetts have determined that parties can enter into a valid real estate… Read More -
The Buzz: Coaching Corner: Do you believe in magic?
By Marilou Butcher RothWhat I want you to consider today is how what we believe impacts our everyday… Read More -
The Buzz: Coaching Corner: Clean sweep!
By "Coach" Marilou Butcher RothToday I want to talk about taking some pro-active measures to have a… Read More -
The Buzz: Success Tips #3: Budget or shoe box?
By "Coach" Jackie LeavenworthOur last success tip suggested that we must plan for our future and… Read More -
The Buzz: Coaching Corner: Speaking frankly about FSBO's (or is it?)
By Marilou Butcher RothWhenever I ask why someone would be motivated to sell their home themselves,… Read More -
The Buzz: Success Tips #6: Marketing tool #1...Have a database
By "Coach" Jackie LeavenworthWe've come along way in designing your business and your life. We now… Read More -
The Buzz: Coaching Corner: Coaching your buyers to clarity
By "Coach" Marilou Butcher RothAs REALTORS, at one time or another, we have all either heard or said… Read More -
The Buzz: An Ohio License Law NO-NO!
By Peg RitenourAfter the program I had several REALTORS tell me about a common practice that is… Read More -
The Buzz: Coaching Corner: Discover Your Magic!
By Marilou Butcher RothIt really comes down to value, doesn't it -- how much will we gain from… Read More -
The Buzz: Coaching Corner: Motherly Advice
By Master Coach Marilou Butcher Roth… Read More -
Articles: License Law
Check to ensure compliance with recent license law changes(Jan. 8, 2020, Ohio REALTORS Buzz)Division… Read More -
FAQs: License Law
1. I am moving to another state. Can I still maintain my Ohio real estate license?A: Yes. Residency… Read More -
Consumers: Home buying steps
Steps in the home buying transactionOnce you make the decision to buy a particular house, there are… Read More -
Broker Toolkit: Trust Account Responsibilities
Under Ohio law, a real estate brokerage must maintain a trust or special account to hold monies… Read More -
The Buzz: Coaching Corner: Motherly advice
By "Coach" Marilou Butcher Roth… Read More -
The Buzz: Coaching Corner: The beauty of giving back
By "Coach" Marilou Butcher RothOur lives are so full, there is no question about that. We are… Read More -
The Buzz: Coaching Corner: Clarifying vs. confronting
By "Coach" Marilou Butcher RothThere have been countless clients over the years that have expressed… Read More -
The Buzz: Coaching Corner: Be ready!
By Marilou Butcher Roth, Master Coach… Read More -
The Buzz: Coaching Corner: The final four
By "Coach" Marilou Butcher Roth… Read More -
The Buzz: Ohio cities suing state, tax commissioner over municipal income tax reforms
From the Society of CPA'sA group of more than 100 Ohio cities have officially launched an effort… Read More -
The Buzz: Ohio REALTORS voice support for passage of the First-Time Home Buyer Savings Act
Ohio REALTORS President Anjanette Frye offered the profession's strong support to Senate Bill 139 --… Read More -
The Buzz: Additional changes made to Ohio's Good Funds Law
By Lorie Garland, Ohio REALTORS Assistant Vice President of Legal ServicesOhio's Good Funds Law… Read More -
The Buzz: Ohio Homebuyer Plus Savings Program Now Open for Applications
COLUMBUS – Ohio Treasurer Robert Sprague has announced the official launch of Ohio… Read More -
The Buzz: Coaching Corner: The power of NO!
By "Coach" Marilou Butcher Roth… Read More -
Meetings In A Box Index
March 2025Videos:Leveraging the Code of EthicsThe 136th General Assembly & Key Legislative… Read More -
The Buzz: The Housing Muse: Couples Say This Is the Perfect Wedding Gift: Down Payment Help
Wedding registries are increasingly including “home fund” donations.… Read More -
The Buzz: The Housing Muse: Couples Say This Is the Perfect Wedding Gift: Down Payment Help
Wedding registries are increasingly including “home fund” donations.… Read More -
The Buzz: Ohio REALTORS Lead the Charge Against Predatory Wholesaling Practices
By Anastasia Kotkovskaya, Ohio REALTORS Manager, Advocacy and Research… Read More -
The Buzz: Coaching Corner: Clean up!
By Marilou Butcher Roth, Master Coach… Read More -
The Buzz: Coaching Corner: Why are you in this business?
By Marilou Butcher Roth… Read More -
The Buzz: Coaching Corner: Unleashing your self motivation
Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm - Ralph Waldo Emerson… Read More -
The Buzz: Tell your Ohio State Senator to help make home happen!
Ohio REALTORS are leading the charge to help create vibrant communities, more jobs and build a… Read More -
The Buzz: Coaching Corner: Let freedom reign!
By "Coach" Marilou Butcher Roth… Read More -
The Buzz: Scam Alert: Fake Attendee List Offer for Ohio REALTORS Conference 2025
Heads up, members! A scam email is circulating, falsely claiming to offer an attendee list for the… Read More -
The Buzz: Commonly asked questions about Ohio's new 'Good Funds' law
By Peg Ritenour, OAR Vice President of Legal Services/AdministrationIn 1996, Ohio's “Good… Read More -
Leasing, Seller Financing WP-5-Mortgages
Part Five: Purchase Money MortgageIn those instances where a buyer is unable to obtain lender… Read More -
The Buzz: Success Tips #4: Design your unit goal and your business sources
By "Coach" Jackie LeavenworthIf you've been reading along and coaching yourself to success, you have… Read More -
The Buzz: Scam complaint site that was targeting REALTORS in Ohio & elsewhere goes dormant
By Carl HorstNotes NAR about Realtor-complaints.com:Yesterday, a page appeared indicating that the… Read More -
The Buzz: Using the Homeowner Assistance Fund program to help borrowers prevent foreclosure
By Lorelei Salas, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau… Read More -
The Buzz: Coaching Corner: Say it again
By "Coach" Marilou Butcher Roth… Read More -
The Buzz: Coaching Corner: Are you buried in mental clutter?
By "Coach" Marilou Butcher Roth… Read More -
The Buzz: Coaching Corner: And the Award Goes To……
By Master Coach Marilou Butcher Roth… Read More -
Policies and Procedures: Ohio RPAC Trustees
Ohio RPAC TrusteesFiduciary Duties to Ohio REALTORS:As a member of Ohio RPAC Trustees, you owe your… Read More -
The Buzz: Coaching Corner: Inside out happiness!
By Marilou Butcher Roth, Master Coach… Read More -
The Buzz: Coaching Corner: Say It Again
By Master Coach Marilou Butcher Roth… Read More -
The Buzz: Success Tips #5: 'Rifle approach' to marketing
By "Coach" Jackie LeavenworthOur first four success tips included designing our life, assessing our… Read More -
The Buzz: Coaching Corner: And the award goes to...
By "Coach" Marilou Butcher Roth… Read More -
The Buzz: Ohio Safety Series: Showing properties the safe way
When you are showing an empty property, you can take these simple steps to empower yourself against… Read More -
The Buzz: Coaching Corner: From wonder to wonderful!
“Wonder is a powerful tool. We used wonder to create several multi-billion dollar businesses.… Read More -
The Buzz: Ohio Safety Series: Showing properties the safe way
When you are showing an empty property, you can take these simple steps to empower yourself against… Read More -
The Buzz: Legally speaking: So you're transferring your license... (Part 2)
By Peg Ritenour, OAR Vice President of Legal Services/Administration… Read More -
The Buzz: Coaching Corner: Organizing you!
By "Coach" Marilou Butcher RothThis year is days away from being over, and many of us have been, and… Read More -
The Buzz: Ohio Division of Real Estate announces new Online System
The Division of Real Estate and Professional Licensing will now accept online submissions for sales… Read More -
The Buzz: Coaching Corner: Are you Engaged, Ignited and Amplified?
By "Coach" Marilou Butcher RothIf you attended the Ohio Association of REALTORS Annual Convention in… Read More -
The Buzz: Coaching Corner: Clean up!
By Marilou Butcher Roth, Master Coach… Read More -
The Buzz: High Court makes it easier for borrowers to walk away from underwater homes
The ruling stems from the overturning of a September 2013 Eighth Circuit ruling that the… Read More -
Auction WP-4-Auction Day
IV: Auction Day4.1. The Auction AssistantNon-auctioneer employees are allowed to help conduct… Read More -
The Buzz: Gov. DeWine announces $50 million home relief grant initiative
The state of Ohio is allocating $50 million from the Coronavirus Relief Fund from the CARES Act for… Read More -
The Buzz: Judy Von Duyke honored with OAR Distinguished Service Award
REALTOR Judy Von Duyke, of the Medina County Board of REALTORS, was honored as a recipient of the… Read More -
The Buzz: Dayton Area Board claims the Ohio REALTORS 2017 'Young Professionals Network of the Year Award'
Dayton Area Board of REALTORS Young Professionals Network members (from left) Shannon Landers, Jake… Read More -
The Buzz: Nathan White selected as Ohio REALTORS 2022 Good Neighbor Award recipient
(From left): Ohio REALTORS President-elect Ralph Mantica, Treasurer Ali Whitley, Ohio REALTORS 2022… Read More -
The Buzz: What Science Says About How to Sell Your Value as an Agent
By Melissa Dittmann Tracey, Guest Contributor… Read More -
The Buzz: Legally speaking: Don't let divorcing sellers get you in hot water
By Peg Ritenour, OAR Vice President of Legal Services/AdministrationI listed a property owned by a… Read More -
The Buzz: Legally speaking: How to pay commissions correctly
By Peg Ritenour, OAR Vice President of Legal Services/Administration… Read More -
The Buzz: Ohio REALTORS Insider: Burnett Trial Updates Week 1
Todd Book, Vice President of Legal and Legislative Affairs at Ohio REALTORS, discusses what happened… Read More -
The Buzz: Ohio Real Estate & Financial Associations support First-Time Homebuyer Savings Act
A coalition of Ohio real estate and financial organizations have joined forces in support of Senate… Read More -
Real Estate Terms
Here are some commonly used terms you might hear in the real state transaction process: Read More -
The Buzz: Community Service Spotlight: Akron Cleveland Association of REALTORS
Akron Cleveland Certificate of Merit Award (Center) Jim Fox, 2017 President of the Akron Cleveland… Read More -
The Buzz: Burnett Trial Updates: Week of October 23rd
NAR began week two of its trial in Kansas City, Mo., to present facts, laws about pro-consumer,… Read More -
The Buzz: Keys to avoiding a messy breakup
By Peg Ritenour, OAR Vice President of Legal Services/AdministrationIt is not uncommon for a real… Read More -
The Buzz: Legally speaking: Can agents offer incentives to buyers or sellers?
By Peg Ritenour, OAR Vice President of Legal Services/Administration… Read More -
The Buzz: The Housing Muse: Homeowners Get Creative By House Hacking
By Melissa Dittmann Tracey… Read More -
The Buzz: Ohio REALTORS help rebuild communities affected by spring tornadoes
Ohio’s REALTORS, in partnership with the REALTORS Relief Fund, played an integral role in… Read More -
The Buzz: Ohio Attorney General issues scam alert for businesses
By Carl HorstA notice from Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine was issued today on a similar "consumer… Read More -
The Buzz: Ohio House introduces First-Time Homebuyer Savings Act legislation
By Beth Wanless, Ohio REALTORS Director of Government Affairs… Read More -
The Buzz: Anatomy of an appraisal
Reprinted from the Summer/Fall 2014 Ohio REALTOR magazineBy Melanie McLane, ABR, CRB, ePro, Green,… Read More -
The Buzz: Do's and don'ts of working with out-of-state commercial REALTORS
By Peg Ritenour, OAR Vice President of Legal Services/Administration… Read More -
The Buzz: Legally speaking: Funds need to be wired for closings beginning April 6
By Peg Ritenour, OAR Vice President of Legal Services/Administration… Read More -
The Buzz: Ohio REALTORS seek to bring transparency to property valuation complaint system
By Beth Wanless, Ohio REALTORS Director of Government Affairs… Read More -
The Buzz: Legally speaking: Agents switching brokerages & the Broker's duty to pay their commission
By Peg Ritenour, OAR Vice President of Legal Services/Administration… Read More -
The Buzz: Property manager sanctioned for unauthorized practice of law
By Lorie Garland, Ohio REALTORS Assistant Vice President of Legal Services… Read More -
The Buzz: First-Time Homebuyer Savings Act passes House Committee, floor vote looms
BREAKING NEWS: UPDATE 3:00 p.m. 12/9/21...Ohio House unanimously approves the First Time Home Buyer… Read More -
The Buzz: ECO-Link: A valuable cost-saving tool for Ohio homeowners
Special Guest Column by Ohio Treasurer Robert Sprague … Read More -
The Buzz: Key REALTOR-backed bill to rein in property valuation challenges OK'd, heads to Gov. DeWine
By Beth Wanless, Ohio REALTORS Director of Government Affairs… Read More -
The Buzz: Key REALTOR-backed bill to rein in property valuation challenges OK'd, heads to Gov. DeWine
By Beth Wanless, Ohio REALTORS Director of Government Affairs… Read More -
The Buzz: Key property valuation challenge bill advances, heads to Senate floor
By Beth Wanless, Ohio REALTORS Director of Government Affairs … Read More -
The Buzz: Pete Kopf receives Ohio REALTORS 2020 "Phillip R. Barnes RPAC Achievement Award."
Pete Kopf, of Cincinnati, is presented Ohio's 2020 "Phillip R. Barnes RPAC Achievement Award." … Read More -
The Buzz: New Ohio Homebuyer Plus Savings Program to Launch in January
(COLUMBUS, Ohio)— Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, Lt. Governor Jon Husted, and Treasurer… Read More -
The Buzz: Success Tips #2: Turn dreams into goals
By "Coach" Jackie LeavenworthOur last tip helped to design your life. Dreams are great, but dreams… Read More -
Property Mgmt WP-Accounts
Property Management Account(s)A property manager generally collects rents, security deposits and… Read More -
Ohio REALTOR Article: House Bill 532: How Ohio's new license law impacts real estate
By Peg RitenourOAR Vice President of Legal Services/Administration(Spring, 2017 Ohio REALTOR)On… Read More -
FAQs: Purchase Contracts
1. If a contract to purchase does not specify a closing date, is the contract void?A: No. If a… Read More -
White Papers
Definition of a White Paper1: a detailed or authoritative report that helps solve a problem. White… Read More -
The Buzz: Disclosing a negative inspection report
By Peg Ritenour, Ohio REALTORS Vice President of Legal Services… Read More -
The Buzz: Pete Kopf receives Ohio REALTORS 2024 Vincent T. Aveni Lifetime Achievement Award
From left: Ohio REALTORS Treasurer Mic Gordon, Ohio REALTORS 2024 President Ali Whitley, Ohio… Read More -
The Buzz: Ohio REALTORS lend support to measure to improve the state’s licensing system
By Andrew Huffman, Ohio REALTORS Director of Government Affairs… Read More -
The Buzz: 5 Home Buyer Trends to Watch Heading Into 2025
Find out who’s succeeding in the housing market—and who may be struggling.… Read More -
The Buzz: Legally speaking: Real estate licensees duty to report elder abuse
By Lorie Garland, Ohio REALTORS Assistant Vice President of Legal Services… Read More -
The Buzz: The Housing Muse: Home Buyers, Sellers Are Getting Duped
By Melissa Dittmann Tracey… Read More -
The Buzz: The Housing Muse: Home Buyers, Sellers Are Getting Duped
By Melissa Dittmann Tracey… Read More -
The Buzz: Ohio REALTORS voice strong support to modernize the state's licensing system
Ohio REALTORS voiced strong support for a bill designed to modernize the state's licensing system,… Read More -
The Buzz: Keys to avoid license law violations
By Peg Ritenour, Ohio REALTORS Vice President of Legal Services/Administration… Read More -
Selling, Buying a Home
Selling your homeSelling your home is a big decision. You probably spent more than a couple years… Read More -
The Buzz: Court finds Portsmouth's rental inspections unconstitutional
By Lorie Garland, OAR Assistant Vice President of Legal Services… Read More -
The Buzz: Meet the 2020 Ohio REALTORS Leadership Academy class!
The Ohio REALTORS 2020 Leadership Academy class: (top row, from left) Tanya Blair, Sara DiFranco,… Read More -
The Buzz: Ohio REALTORS Housing Disaster Relief Fund grows to nearly $530K; more than $282K already sent to tornado victims
(From left) Ohio REALTORS Chief Executive Officer Scott Williams, Dayton REALTORS President-elect… Read More -
The Buzz: The Housing Muse: 9 Ways to Save on Your Mortgage
Borrowing costs are surging, and dampening real estate’s spring season. Here are some ways… Read More -
The Buzz: Ohio REALTORS survey reveals significant impact of COVID-19 on economy, housing
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Ohio households was significant, with a comprehensive survey… Read More -
Quick Guide to Local RPAC Events
2025 LOCAL BOARD RPAC EVENTSJune 18 | 5 pm MAR Annual RPAC Event The Vault Wine Bar, 29 W… Read More -
First Home OLD
What is a First-Time Homebuyer Savings Act? BUYING A FIRST HOME JUST GOT EASIER ...A First-Time… Read More -
PC: What to know about your credit before buying a home
Like it or not, your credit score is one of the most important numbers in your life, ranking up… Read More -
The Buzz: Study finds Ohio's Business Income Deduction boosts state's economy
Last week, the Ohio Chamber of Commerce Research Foundation released its latest report,… Read More -
Ohio HB 532 Resources
In April 2017, HB 532 became effective. The main purpose of this legislation was to implement the… Read More -
The Buzz: Burnett Trial Updates- Week of October 16-20th
Burnett Trial Updates- Week of October 16-20th… Read More -
The Buzz: New license law rule requirements effective Feb. 10
By Peg Ritenour, Ohio REALTORS Vice President of Legal Services… Read More -
Consumers: Financing a home
Get your financial house in orderSince most people, especially first-time home buyers, must finance… Read More -
Mediation strives to stem foreclosures
Ohio Chief Justice Thomas J. Moyer, the longest serving state chief justice in the United States,… Read More -
Agent found in violation of license law for improper handling of REO listings
by Lorie GarlandAssistant Vice PresidentLegal ServicesDo you list properties for an asset management… Read More -
Presidents Columns
Here are the latest president's columns that can be used under your president's name, in your local… Read More -
Leasing, Seller Financing WP-6-Land Installment Contracts
Part Six: Land Installment ContractsA land installment contract provides another vehicle for a buyer… Read More -
The Buzz: Modernizing Ohio sewage treatment systems: Protecting homeowners' investment
By Rebecca Fugitt, MS, RS; Program Manager, Residential Water & Sewage Program; Ohio Department… Read More -
White Paper: Contract Law, Purchase Agreements
InroductionGeneral contract principles apply to all real estate purchase agreements. The first part… Read More -
Recordkeeping
Recordkeeping: It's For Your Own ProtectionArticle: Legally Speaking: Do email and text messages… Read More -
HB 532: FAQ...Multiple Trade Names or DBAs
HB 532 allows a brokerage to use multiple trade names with the permission of the Superintendent.Q.… Read More -
Legal Assistance Hotline
The Ohio REALTORS’ Legal Assistance Hotline provides general legal information on a variety of… Read More -
Article: Report of Unclaimed Funds Due on Nov. 1
by Lorie GarlandAssistant Vice PresidentOhio REALTORS Legal ServicesA real estate brokerage is… Read More -
Personal Assistants White Paper-8-Dos and Dont's
Do's and Don'ts For Unlicensed Personal AssistantsDO:Call people to schedule appointments.Call the… Read More -
Leasing, Seller Financing WP-3-Option to Purchase
Part Three: Lease with Option to PurchaseIn certain circumstances, a potential buyer who does not… Read More -
Leasing, Seller Financing WP-4-Lease Purchase
Part Four: Lease Purchase AgreementA lease purchase agreement is similar to a lease with the option… Read More -
The Buzz: Study examines the professional experience of Ohio's real estate licensees
By Greg Stitz, OAR Director of ResearchThe Ohio Association of REALTORS received funding from the… Read More -
Advertising White Paper-3-Fair Housing
III. Real Estate Advertisements Must Comply with Federal, State and Local Fair Housing ActsIn… Read More -
Auction WP-3-Preparation
III: Preparing for the Auction of Real Estate3.1. The Auctioneer of Real Estate(a) The Licensed… Read More -
Policy Manual: Financial
Financial Policy #97A -- BUILDING REMODELING RESERVE FUNDThe Association shall maintain a reserve… Read More -
White Paper: Leasing, Seller Financing
Article: Legally Speaking: What to do when a land contract goes south(OAR Buzz, Feb. 23,… Read More -
Update on the Ohio REO property management case
by Lorie GarlandAssistant Vice President Legal ServicesThe February Ohio REALTOR included an… Read More -
First Home FAQs
FAQs on the First-Time Homebuyer Savings Accounts (FHSA) ...Q: What kinds of accounts can be FHSAs?… Read More -
PC: Staging your home: How to make buyers fall in love
If you’re considering holding an open house, your REALTOR will have an honest conversation… Read More -
The Buzz: Internet Security Best Practices -- Part 2: How to prevent malware installation and successful phishing
This is the second installment of a three-part report prepared by the National Association of… Read More -
Ohio REALTORS Past Presidents
Below is a listing of Ohio REALTORS Past Presidents ... If you'd like to contact a past… Read More -
White Paper: Independent Contractor
Part One: Independent Contractor Status Under the LawI. IntroductionMost real estate brokers in Ohio… Read More -
Procuring Cause and Arbitration
A. General Law in OhioOhio courts have long favored arbitration as a means of resolving disputes… Read More -
White Paper: Inducements, Referrals and Gifts
IntroductionIn a competitive business such as real estate, innovative marketing ideas and promotions… Read More -
Article: Enforcement of Fair Housing Laws
by Seth G. WeissmanA REALTOR friend of mine recently told me that keeping up-to-date on our fair… Read More -
Affiliate Benefits
The Ohio REALTORS Affiliate Advantage...Your affiliate membership in Ohio REALTORS allows you to… Read More -
RPAC: Scioto Valley Association
EVENTS:Auction | Scioto Township Hall | May 22 | 5 pm Location: 164 S. Watt Street… Read More -
How you are represented in a real estate transaction
Ohio law requires that real estate licensees act as a fiduciary of their client and act in their… Read More -
Citation Authority
Citation Authority FAQsThe law amends the sections of the license law dealing with the disciplinary… Read More -
Legal Forms: Partnership
DefinitionAn association of two or more persons who agree to do business together. In order to be… Read More -
Legal Forms: Corporation
DefinitionA separate legal business entity created under state law, usually formed to insulate the… Read More -
Commission Issues: License Law Provisions
Payment of CommissionsAll monies collected in connection with a real estate brokerage transaction… Read More -
Good Funds
Additional changes made to Ohio’s Good Funds Law Ohio’s Good Funds Law defines the type… Read More -
Article: What you need to know before you manage property
by Peg RitenourVice PresidentLegal ServicesGiven the current market conditions, leasing property is… Read More -
Code of Regulations: Endowments
ARTICLE XII / Endowments§12.1 Establishment. For the purpose of establishing a fund for… Read More -
Prez Column Winter 2019-What Is the Best Time to Buy a House?
Sure, you can consider market conditions. But when to buy a house is really all about you.Timing… Read More -
Consumers: Selling your home
You love and cherish your home. You want the next owner to fall in love with it, too--through… Read More -
Prez Column Winter 2019-8 Eye-Opening Things Home Inspectors Can't Tell You
What's included in a home inspection may not be as important as what isn't.A home inspection may… Read More -
PC Fall 2020-7 Important Repairs to Make Before Selling A House
As a smart seller, you'll want your home in tip-top shape--but you don't want to eat into your… Read More -
Our Accomplishments
Ohio REALTORS work tirelessly for you. We make home happen by ensuring new legislation, affecting… Read More -
PC: The everything guide to buying your first home
So you’re thinking about buying your first home. Your very own house (and mortgage). A place… Read More -
RPAC: Mansfield Association
EVENT:MAR Annual RPAC Event (TBD) | The Vault Wine Bar | June 18 | 5:00 pm Location: The… Read More -
PC: Tips for managing property taxes and finding tax rates
If you’re in the market for your first home, you’re probably trying to find your… Read More -
prez-column-Attic & Basement Storage Ideas to Gain More Space
Outfitting your basement and attic with efficient storage can be life-changing. Not only will you… Read More -
Prez Column: What to expect during a home inspection
A Home Inspector Is Your ProtectorAn inspector helps you make sure a house isn’t hiding… Read More -
prez-column-Put a Serious Dent in Your Energy Bills
Your Mexican beach vacation was great, but those margaritas can put on the pounds. It’s been… Read More -
Prez Column: How to Avoid Capital Gains Tax on a Home Sale
When your home value goes through the roof, you may end up with capital gains when you sell. Here… Read More -
Prez Column: 8 Easy Mistakes Homeowners Make on Their Taxes
Don’t rouse the IRS or pay more taxes than necessary — know the score to avoid common… Read More