by Tammy Murphy | Oct 3, 2025 | Current Events, Estate Planning, Facing Foreclosure, Neighbor Chat, Real Estate News, Real Homes to Love
Feature Topic: Property Taxes — Then vs. Now
Property taxes in Ohio have become one of the biggest burdens on homeowners. Let’s look at a real-world example:
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2018: A family buys a home for $150,000 in Montgomery County. At that time, their property taxes were roughly $2,800/year.
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2025: That same home may now be valued closer to $225,000 (a 50% increase). Property taxes have climbed to about $4,200/year.
That’s an extra $1,400 every year — without the family making any changes or upgrades. Over 7 years, this adds up to nearly $10,000 more out of their pocket.
This is why Property Tax Reform is such an urgent issue. Homeownership should create stability — not financial strain.
❗ Surprising Fact
Ohio law requires schools to get the first 20 “mills” of property taxes, no matter what happens to values. That floor keeps taxes from ever dropping, even when home values rise dramatically.
Property Tax Reform – Have You Signed Yet?
I’m helping organize a petition for Property Tax Reform in Ohio. If you’d like to review the petition and add your signature, stop by my RH2L office. Every voice matters, and your support helps move this conversation forward.
by Tammy Murphy | Oct 1, 2025 | Current Events, Market Updates, Real Estate News, Real Homes to Love
The real estate market is shifting:
Homes are staying on the market longer
Sellers are offering incentives (home warranties, closing cost help, title coverage)
Price adjustments are popping up
Translation? Buyers have more room to negotiate, and sellers need a smart strategy to stand out.
And with new property tax assessments making the rounds, now’s a great time to check your home’s true market value — whether for peace of mind, to file a dispute, or just to keep tabs on your equity.
As always, referrals mean the world to me! If you know someone who’s thinking about a move, I’d love to help them navigate this season of change.
by Tammy Murphy | Sep 6, 2025 | Current Events, Facing Foreclosure, Neighbor Chat, Networking, Podcast, Real Estate News
Upcoming Elections: Is Property Tax Reform Needed
Property taxes have become one of the most pressing issues facing Ohio homeowners. Year after year, many families are opening their tax bills to find unexpected increases that strain budgets and threaten affordability. As a Realtor and community advocate, I hear these stories every day — from seniors on fixed incomes to first-time buyers who suddenly find their monthly costs skyrocketing.
It’s not just about the bills we pay. It’s about transparency, accountability, and fairness. We deserve to know where our money is going and how it’s being used to support schools, services, and our communities. More importantly, we deserve to have a say in shaping a tax system that is sustainable and equitable.
Holding Leaders Accountable: What Every Ohio Homeowner Should Know About Property Taxes
The Candidate Questionnaire: A Tool for Accountability
With elections approaching, it’s the perfect time to ask hard questions of those in power — and those seeking office. That’s why a Candidate Questionnaire on Property Tax Reform has been created as a tool for voters.
This questionnaire asks candidates to go on record about:
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Transparency in how tax dollars are reported and spent
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Accountability through independent audits and oversight
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Fairness in how properties are assessed and taxed
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Relief for homeowners through exemptions and caps
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Priorities that place families and residents above big developers and outside investors
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Alternatives to reduce reliance on property taxes alone
By using this questionnaire at candidate forums or sending it directly to those running for office, you can help ensure that our elected officials can’t dodge the tough questions. Their answers (or refusal to answer) speak volumes about where they stand.
Why Homeowners Should Stay Involved
Advocacy doesn’t stop with one petition or one election. The property tax system in Ohio is deeply tied to school funding, local services, and state policy. Change requires persistence. Here are some additional steps you can take:
1. Sign and Share Petitions
Petitions demonstrate the strength of public demand. When thousands of Ohioans sign together, legislators are forced to pay attention.
2. Attend Local Meetings
School board, city council, and county commissioner meetings are where many tax-related decisions are made. Your voice matters at the local level.
3. Ask Questions Publicly
Use the Candidate Questionnaire as your guide. When you attend a forum or town hall, don’t hesitate to ask: “What will you do to make property taxes more fair and transparent?”
4. Connect with Your Legislators
Write letters, send emails, and request meetings. Share your personal story about how rising taxes affect you and your family. Personalized communication has far greater impact than form letters.
5. Stay Informed and Share Information
Many people don’t realize how property tax systems work or why they’re being hit with increases. The more we share resources, the stronger our collective voice becomes.
A Call to Action for Ohio Homeowners
Property taxes shouldn’t be the reason families leave their homes or communities. By signing petitions, asking tough questions, and using tools like the Candidate Questionnaire, we can demand better.
Download the Candidate Questionnaire and share it with your neighbors, family, and friends. Ask your candidates to fill it out. Hold them accountable. Ohio_Property_Tax_Candidate_Questionnaire
Together, we can push for a system that works — one where homeowners are protected, dollars are transparent, and our communities can thrive.
by Tammy Murphy | Jul 23, 2025 | BLOG, Current Events, Neighbor Chat, Networking, Real Estate News, Real Homes to Love
✈️ Ready to Vacation? Don’t Forget These Home Safety Tips!
As summer peaks and travel plans take off, there’s one checklist every traveler should complete before heading out the door—and it’s not your packing list. It’s your Home Safety Checklist.
We believe in seamless travel experiences from start to finish—and that includes peace of mind while you’re away. That’s why The REAL-TEA Podcast hopes to bring you a powerful reminder that smart travel includes smart security at home. Our co-host at MapDotTravels is available if you have NOT yet booked your vacation or need any help in making plans!
️ Mark Your Calendar:
Tune in to our upcoming episode of The REAL-TEA on August 5th, where Elle and Tammy share their favorite vacation spots and the essential home safety tips every homeowner needs before traveling.
They’ll dive into:
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Vacation planning made easy ️
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Smart tech tools that add security without hassle
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Common-sense tips that save you from costly mistakes
Here’s a Sneak Peek of What You’ll Learn:
Before you hop on that plane or hit the road, here are just a few things you should do:
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Use smart plugs to automate lighting while you’re away.
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Pause mail delivery so your home doesn’t scream “nobody’s home.”
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Install motion sensor lights to deter unwanted visitors.
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Avoid oversharing on social media until you return.
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Let a trusted neighbor know you’re gone and ask them to keep an eye out.
Want the full checklist?
Home Safety Checklist for Vacation – your must-have guide to prepping your home before a trip!
From Elle:
“As a full-service travel advisor with MapDotTravels, I want every trip to start stress-free and end with beautiful memories—not home emergencies. This checklist is part of the full-circle service we offer—making sure your home is safe while you enjoy the world.”
by Tammy Murphy | Jul 11, 2025 | BLOG, Current Events, Market Updates, Neighbor Chat, Networking, Real Estate News, Real Homes to Love
You hear it from TAMMY first, as she continues to keep an eye on the market data; and now officially, we are getting updates that reflect the same.
Market Shift Alert: What Today’s Real Estate Trends Mean for You
The real estate market is evolving—and if you’ve been waiting for the right time to make a move, you might want to pay attention. We’re seeing a notable shift in the housing cycle that could benefit both buyers and sellers in very different ways. Here’s what’s happening and why timing (and the right Realtor) is more important than ever.
Longer Listing Times = More Choices
One of the most noticeable changes is that homes are staying on the market a bit longer than they did during the recent red-hot seller’s market. While that might seem like a concern to some, it actually has a silver lining:
✅ Inventory is increasing.
✅ Buyers have more options.
✅ There’s time to breathe and make confident decisions.
For sellers, this means adjusting expectations and pricing strategically. For buyers, this creates a more balanced playing field—less rushing, more negotiating.
Price Reductions + Seller Incentives Are Making a Comeback
As sellers respond to market conditions, we’re beginning to see price adjustments and, more importantly, the return of meaningful seller concessions. These can include:
Seller-paid closing cost assistance – helping buyers reduce upfront costs
Home warranties – offering peace of mind for potential repairs
Seller-paid title insurance or transfer fees – cutting down buyer expenses
In a competitive market, these extras were rare. Now, they’re back—and smart buyers are taking advantage.
Why Timing & Personal Strategy Matter
Whether you’re buying or selling, your personal timeline plays a major role in how you navigate this shifting market.
Need to move quickly? There are ways to position your offer or list strategically to align with the current momentum.
⏳ Flexible on your timing? We might be able to negotiate stronger terms to your advantage.
The key is to have a Realtor who understands the local market and can tailor a strategy that matches your goals. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution—just informed, professional guidance that puts your priorities first.
The Bottom Line
The market is adjusting, and that opens new doors for opportunity—whether you’re moving up, scaling down, or buying your very first home. Don’t go it alone. Let’s talk about your unique situation and how we can make the current market work for you.
Contact TAMMY today for a personalized market update and strategy session. Your next move starts with the right plan!
by Tammy Murphy | Jul 3, 2025 | Beavercreek, Bellbrook, Belmont, Bethel Township, BLOG, Brookville, Butler Township, Centerville, Clayton, Clearcreek Township, Current Events, Dayton, Deweese Park Area, DOWNTOWN, Eaton, Englewood, Fairborn, Franklin, Germantown, GLOBAL, Grafton Hills, Harrison Township, Huber Heights, Investor Relations, Jefferson Township, Kettering, Lebanon, Liberty Township, LOT / LAND, Miami Township, Miamisburg, MIddletown, Monroe, Moraine, Neighbor Chat, Networking, New Carlisle, New Lebanon, Northridge, Real Estate News, Real Homes to Love, Riverside, South Park, Springboro, Sugarcreek Township, TIpp City, Trotwood, Troy, Union, Vandalia, Washington Township, Waynesville, West Carrollton, Westwood, Workshop / Seminars, Xenia
Leading with Heart: How Tammy Murphy is Championing Housing Solutions for Dayton and Surrounding Communities
When it comes to housing advocacy, few leaders bring the blend of personal passion and professional purpose that Tammy Murphy does. As a lifelong Daytonian and a dedicated real estate broker, Tammy has always believed in the power of home—not just as a transaction, but as a foundation for thriving communities.
That’s why she’s leading the charge with the upcoming Ohio Housing Workshop on July 15th, bringing together planners, builders, zoning officials, lenders, and advocates for one shared goal: revitalizing our neighborhoods with practical, community-first housing solutions.
But what makes this workshop different? Tammy ensured that Dayton and our surrounding communities had a front-row seat. While this initiative has statewide potential, her first priority is clear—local leaders and residents deserve the first opportunity to be part of the change.
What’s This Workshop All About?
At its core, the Ohio Housing Workshop is designed to educate, empower, and engage. It’s a working session—not just a talking session—where key stakeholders explore tools and strategies to bring new housing into neighborhoods using existing resources.
Without getting too technical, here’s a peek at what attendees will learn:
️ In-fill housing: How empty lots in existing neighborhoods can become beautiful, affordable homes—without the cost of new infrastructure.
️ Zoning and planning: Why local policies matter and how we can work with municipalities to make room for smart growth.
️ Builder and investor partnerships: Creative ways to attract developers and fund construction while keeping housing affordable.
Land banks and financing options: How underused land and public-private partnerships can jumpstart local housing projects.
Grassroots activation: Perhaps most importantly, how communities themselves can get involved to make sure housing plans reflect local needs and values.
Why It Matters
For Tammy, this isn’t just a project—it’s personal. “Our neighborhoods deserve more than band-aid solutions,” she says. “We need a thoughtful approach that blends housing innovation with respect for our local identity.”
She’s not just organizing a workshop—she’s building a movement. One that’s grounded in collaboration, driven by data, and fueled by the belief that every community, no matter its zip code, should have a say in its future.
How You Can Get Involved
This workshop is just the beginning. Over the coming months, Tammy and her team will continue to work with local leaders, nonprofit partners, and residents to bring these plans to life. If you’re passionate about housing, community development, or simply want to stay informed, here’s what you can do:
✅ Share this post with your neighbors, council members, and community groups
✅ Join the conversation—reach out to Tammy directly if you want your neighborhood included
✅ Follow the progress as updates are shared on future housing efforts across the region
Because when it comes to shaping the future of our communities— we all have a role to play.
