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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… 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 -
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 -
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 -
White Paper: Earnest Money Trust Accounts
I. IntroductionEarnest money deposits are involved in almost every real estate transaction. Although… 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: 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 -
Article: Disputed earnest money and unclaimed funds
by Lorie GarlandAssistant Vice PresidentLegal ServicesLast month’s Ohio REALTOR® contained 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 -
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 -
Earnest Money Trust Accounts
Earnest money deposits are involved in almost every real estate transaction. Although not essential… Read More -
Earnest Money WP-7 Misrepresentation
Misrepresentation Regarding Earnest MoneyFrequent violations of the license law occur where… Read More -
Article: Earnest money sample language available
by Peg RitenourVice PresidentLegal ServicesAs discussed in the last two issues of OHIO REALTOR®… 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 -
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-4-Interest
Interest on Earnest MoneyOccasionally the parties may want a large earnest money deposit to earn… Read More -
Virtual Classroom: 20-Hour Post Licensing for Salespeople
Registration deadline: Thursday, Nov. 26… 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 -
FAQs: General License Law
Ohio Department of Real Estate & Professional Licensing's sample trust account ledger1. A broker… Read More -
EarnestMoneyWP-9-Unclaimed Funds
Unclaimed Funds LawOhio's unclaimed funds law requires 'holders' of 'unclaimed funds' to submit an… 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 -
Legal Library
Legal articles provided on this website are intended to provide broad, general information about the… Read More -
The Buzz: Coaching Corner: Questions for You
By Master Coach Marilou Butcher Roth… 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 "Coach" Marilou Butcher Roth… Read More -
The Buzz: Coaching Corner: Questions for you!
By Marilou Butcher Roth, Master Coach… 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-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: Is your brokerage compliant with Ohio's trust account requirements?
By Peg Ritenour, OAR Vice President of Legal Services/Administration… 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: Ohio REALTORS® Releases Two New Forms for Statewide Contract Use
The Executive Committee has approved two new forms drafted by the Ohio REALTORS® Forms Committee.… 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… 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 -
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 -
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: Legally speaking: What does Ohio license law say about...?
By Peg Ritenour, OAR Vice President of Legal Services/Administration… 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 -
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: 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 -
Virtual Classroom: How to Find & Talk About Opportunities in a Changing Market
Complimentary recording included w/registration… Read More -
Virtual Classroom: CRM Mastery: Turn Your Database Into a $100K+ Referral Machine
The Harsh Truth: Managing your real estate business without a proper CRM is costing you… 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 -
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 -
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 -
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 -
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: 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 -
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: 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: Scam Alert: Protect Yourself from Fraudulent Emails
Ohio REALTORS® has been made aware of a scam email circulating that appears to come from 2025… 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… 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 -
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 -
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: Endings, Beginnings, and all the Fun in Between
By Master Coach Marilou Butcher Roth… 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 -
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 -
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 -
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: 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 -
Articles: License Law
Check to ensure compliance with recent license law changes(Jan. 8, 2020, Ohio REALTORS®… 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: Are you Engaged, Ignited and Amplified?
By "Coach" Marilou Butcher RothIf you attended the Ohio Association of REALTORS® Annual Convention… 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 -
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… 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,… 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®… 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… 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 -
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 -
Policies and Procedures: Ohio RPAC Trustees
Ohio RPAC TrusteesFiduciary Duties to Ohio REALTORS®:As a member of Ohio RPAC Trustees, you owe… 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: Ohio Homeowners Given One-Time Chance to Exit MV Realty Contracts
By Anastasia Kotkovskaya, Director of Advocacy & Research… 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 -
Auction WP-4-Auction Day
IV: Auction Day4.1. The Auction AssistantNon-auctioneer employees are allowed to help conduct… 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 -
Real Estate Terms
Here are some commonly used terms you might hear in the real state transaction process: Read More -
The Buzz: Scam Alert: Protect Yourself from Fraudulent Emails!
Ohio REALTORS® has been made aware of another scam email circulating that appears to come… 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: Can Your Homeowners Save on Skyrocketing Insurance Costs?
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 -
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 -
Property Mgmt WP-Accounts
Property Management Account(s)A property manager generally collects rents, security deposits and… 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®… 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 -
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: 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 -
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 -
The Buzz: Burnett Trial Updates- Week of October 16-20th
Burnett Trial Updates- Week of October 16-20th… 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: New license law rule requirements effective Feb. 10
By Peg Ritenour, Ohio REALTORS® Vice President of Legal Services… 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 -
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: Modernizing Ohio sewage treatment systems: Protecting homeowners' investment
By Rebecca Fugitt, MS, RS; Program Manager, Residential Water & Sewage Program; Ohio Department… 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 -
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 -
Consumers: Financing a home
Get your financial house in orderSince most people, especially first-time home buyers, must finance… 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… 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: 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 -
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 -
Affiliate Benefits
The Ohio REALTORS® Affiliate Advantage...Your affiliate membership in Ohio REALTORS® allows you to… 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 -
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 -
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 XI | Endowments§11.1 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