by Tammy Murphy | Mar 31, 2026 | Belmont, BLOG, Buyers, Centerville, Clearcreek Township, Current Events, Estate Planning, Kettering, Miami Township, Miamisburg, Neighbor Chat, Networking, Oakwood, Oregon District, Real Estate News, Real Homes to Love, Sellers, Senior Living, South Park, Springboro, Sugarcreek Township, Washington Township, West Carrollton
🏡 Declutter to Dollars: Turns “Stuff” Into Cash…
Declutter to Dollars is a new service designed to help homeowners sell household items with less effort and less moving. Whether you are downsizing, right-sizing, or simply ready to clear space, this structured approach allows items to be sold in place, through a virtual storefront, or via a Pop-Up setting for smaller items—creating a more convenient and efficient way to transition.
If you’ve ever thought…
👉 “What am I going to do with everything in this house?”
👉 “I know there’s value here, but it feels overwhelming…”
You’re not alone.
One of the biggest challenges homeowners face—whether preparing for a move, downsizing, or simply reclaiming space—is not the home itself…
…it’s everything inside it.
That’s exactly why we created Declutter to Dollars.
This is a simple, structured way to:
✔ Turn unused household items into cash
✔ Clear space without the chaos of traditional sales
✔ Avoid last-minute stress before a move
As an added service through our brokerage, Declutter to Dollars fills a gap in the current market by offering a flexible, organized alternative to traditional consignment and resale. With options for in-home sales, virtual listings, and Pop-Up opportunities, this service is tailored to the type and volume of items—providing a customized approach that works for each client’s situation.
No crowds. No guessing. No overwhelm.
👉 You can preview how this works here: https://rh2l.com/declutter-to-dollars/
Preview our Inventory here: https://rh2l.com/store-items-available/
(This page is currently in testing and not yet linked on the main site—so you’re getting an early look.) AND YES, I welcome your FEEDBACK!!
💡 Why This Matters
Most people don’t realize how much value is sitting right in their home.
Furniture, décor, clothing, and everyday items can quickly add up—but without a plan, it often gets pushed aside or donated without a second thought.
Declutter to Dollars gives you a way to:
👉 Simplify your space
👉 Create extra cash
👉 Move forward with clarity
“Sell in place. Simplify your space. Move forward.”
🎯 SPECIAL OFFER
🎉 No Consignment Fees – Limited Time
To introduce this new service, I’m offering:
👉 NO consignment fees for the month
If you’ve been thinking about clearing things out, this is the perfect opportunity to try it—without added cost.
(In the future, this service will include a base setup fee and consignment structure—but for now, I’m opening this up to clients who want to take advantage early.)
📣 If You’re:
- Thinking about selling
- Downsizing
- Cleaning out a home or helping a family member
- Or just ready to reclaim your space
👉 Let’s talk.
I’ll help you create a simple plan to turn what you no longer need into something valuable.
Reply to this email or reach out directly to get started.
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 | Jul 26, 2025 | Estate Planning, Neighbor Chat, Real Homes to Love, Sellers, Senior Living
Downsizing Sounds Simple — So Why Do So Many People Regret It?
When you hear the word “downsizing,” you probably picture something positive:
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A simpler lifestyle
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Lower bills
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Less to clean and manage
And sure — all of that can be true.
But here’s the thing no one talks about:
Downsizing is just as emotional — and sometimes more complicated — than moving into your first home.
Because it’s not just about square footage.
It’s about shifting your lifestyle, your priorities, and sometimes your identity.
The Real Cost of “Just Getting Out”
Many homeowners tell me they’re ready to “get out of this big house” or “finally let go of all this stuff.”
But when we dig deeper, what they’re really saying is:
“I’m not sure what comes next… and I just want someone to help me make sense of it.”
If that’s you — I hear you.
I’ve worked with dozens of clients who made quick downsizing decisions… and ended up regretting parts of the process they didn’t think to plan for. And the frustrating part? These regrets were 100% avoidable.
It’s Not Just a Move — It’s a Life Shift
Selling your longtime home isn’t just about packing boxes. It’s about:
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Releasing a version of your life that may have worked for decades
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Letting go of items tied to memories, not just utility
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Planning for health, energy, and lifestyle needs you haven’t even experienced yet
It’s not scary. But it does deserve some thoughtful prep.
Before You Sell, Watch This
I just recorded a quick 3-minute video that breaks down the three biggest regrets people have when they downsize too soon. It’s short, direct, and based on real-life stories I’ve seen over and over again.
Watch VIDEO here:
Even if you’re just thinking about downsizing — you’ll be glad you saw this first.
Grab the Free Checklist That Goes With It
To help you take the next step — with clarity — I’ve created a Downsizer Readiness Checklist. It covers the emotional, financial, and logistical parts of this process that most people overlook.
✅ Know what to keep, donate, or toss
✅ Think through your health and aging needs
✅ Avoid financial surprises
✅ Make the move with purpose, not panic
Download the checklist here
You Deserve to Downsize With Confidence
If you’ve outgrown your current space — or it’s outgrown you — you deserve a next home that supports your lifestyle and your peace of mind.
And you don’t have to figure it out alone.
Let’s talk through your options — no pressure, just a real conversation about what’s right for you.
Call or Text Tammy at 937-838-0997
Or email me directly at [email protected]
by Tammy Murphy | May 28, 2025 | BLOG, Estate Planning, Neighbor Chat, Real Estate News, Real Homes to Love, Senior Living
Understanding Dementia: How to Identify the Early Signs and Keep Your Loved One Safe at Home
When you begin to notice small changes in the behavior or memory of a loved one, it can be difficult to know whether these are simply signs of aging or something more. Dementia, particularly in its early stages, can often be subtle, and as a family caregiver, it can be overwhelming to navigate these concerns. While it’s natural to wonder if the changes are related to dementia or another condition, understanding the early warning signs and knowing what you can do to ensure the safety and comfort of your loved one at home can help ease the uncertainty.
What is Dementia?
Dementia is an umbrella term for a group of symptoms that affect memory, thinking, and social abilities, severely impacting a person’s daily functioning. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia, but other conditions, such as vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia, can also cause similar symptoms.
Early Signs of Dementia: What to Look For
The early stages of dementia can be subtle, often involving small memory lapses or changes in behavior that may be hard to differentiate from typical age-related changes. However, there are some key signs to watch for:
- Memory Loss: Forgetting recently learned information, important dates, or appointments. Family members may also notice a person frequently asking the same questions.
- Difficulty Planning or Solving Problems: Struggling with tasks that require concentration, such as balancing a checkbook or following a recipe.
- Confusion with Time or Place: Becoming disoriented about dates, seasons, or locations.
- Decreased Judgment or Decision-Making: Making poor decisions, such as leaving the house in inappropriate clothing or handling money recklessly.
- Withdrawal from Social Activities: A person may become more withdrawn or lose interest in hobbies, work, or socializing with others.
- Mood and Personality Changes: Feeling confused, depressed, anxious, or fearful, and experiencing rapid mood swings.
Creating a Safe Home Environment
For family caregivers, one of the most important things to address when caring for a loved one in the early stages of dementia is home safety. Dementia-related changes in memory, judgment, and perception can make the home a hazardous place, but with careful planning, you can minimize risks while allowing your loved one to age in place.
Here are some precautions you can take to make your home safer:
- Remove Clutter: Clear away tripping hazards like loose rugs, electrical cords, or clutter that could cause falls.
- Install Grab Bars: In the bathroom, add grab bars next to the toilet and in the shower to prevent falls.
- Label Household Items: Use labels or signs for rooms, cabinets, and drawers to help your loved one identify where things are.
- Use Timers and Reminders: Set up automatic timers on lights and appliances to help manage the home’s routines and avoid leaving appliances on.
- Create a Calm, Familiar Environment: Keep the layout of the home as simple and predictable as possible to help reduce confusion. Familiar items, like family photographs, can provide comfort.
Getting Help: The Alzheimer’s Association of the Greater Miami Valley
As a family caregiver, you don’t have to navigate the challenges of dementia alone. The Alzheimer’s Association of the Greater Miami Valley is here to provide support, resources, and guidance as you care for your loved one. From educational materials to support groups, they offer valuable services that can help you better understand dementia and provide the assistance needed to maintain your loved one’s quality of life.
Here are some of the ways the Alzheimer’s Association can help:
- Caregiver Support: Connect with other caregivers who understand the challenges you’re facing, and receive guidance on managing daily care.
- Education & Resources: Gain access to information on dementia care techniques, safety tips, and medical care.
- 24/7 Helpline: Call the Alzheimer’s Association’s free, confidential helpline to speak with trained specialists who can answer your questions and provide advice on care options. 800-272-3900
Take Action Today: Join Us for Our Special Episode on June 1st
If you’re looking for more detailed guidance on caring for a loved one with dementia, we invite you to join us on June 1st for a special episode dedicated to aging in place and dementia care. We will explore practical tips, safety strategies, and resources to help you navigate the challenges of dementia caregiving while ensuring that your loved one remains as independent and comfortable as possible.
Don’t wait for the signs to become more pronounced—taking early action can make a world of difference for both you and your loved one. Join us on June 1st to learn more and connect with others facing similar challenges.
PLAN now to watch our next episode on June 3rd and get the support you need to care for those you love. Together, we can make sure that they age with grace and dignity, no matter what stage of dementia they are in.
by Tammy Murphy | Apr 30, 2025 | Bellbrook, Centerville, Estate Planning, Kettering, Military, Neighbor Chat, Networking, Podcast, Real Estate News, Real Homes to Love, Sugarcreek Township, Washington Township
Protecting Property Rights: The Fight for Huston Cemetery and Community Integrity
As real estate professionals, we often find ourselves at the intersection of development and community values. One such case is currently unfolding in Sugarcreek Township, where a historic burial site—Huston Cemetery—faces the threat of being relocated to make way for a new housing development. This issue isn’t just about the development of much-needed new homes; it’s about respecting the history, honoring those who came before us, and upholding the integrity of the community we all work hard to build.
Huston Cemetery, a burial site dating back over 150 years and containing the remains of at least eight individuals, including military veterans, is under scrutiny as part of a proposed 80-home development. Originally, the Sugarcreek Township Trustees promised that the cemetery would be preserved, but after claims from the developer that the site interferes with a right of way, the Trustees voted to relocate the graves to another cemetery. This move has sparked a wave of outrage from residents who feel their voices were not heard, despite overwhelming opposition at public hearings. Especially since the developers own website STILL reflects the cemetery in place.
As Realtors, we believe in the importance of property rights—whether the property in question is a home, a business, or even the final resting place of those who contributed to the community. When decisions are made without fully considering the wishes of the people, it erodes the trust and respect between residents and their local government. The case of Huston Cemetery is a reminder that respecting property rights goes beyond the tangible—it’s about maintaining the spirit of a community that honors its past while working toward the future.
This isn’t just a matter of rezoning for new housing. It’s a question of how we balance progress with respect for those who live, work, and contribute to the fabric of our community—whether in life or death. The Township Trustees’ decision to move forward without adequate public discussion, communication with ALL Family Members of those buried, and without considering the concerns of the community could have long-lasting consequences on the spirit of unity that makes our neighborhoods thrive.
As part of the real estate community, we advocate for the rights of every property owner, and that includes advocating for the preservation of historic sites and the dignity of those interred. When the public’s wishes are ignored in favor of development without purpose, we risk losing the very foundation of what makes our communities special.
The move to relocate Huston Cemetery is a serious issue that raises questions about the values we uphold as a community. We urge everyone to speak up, contact the Township Trustees, and express their concerns about the preservation of this historic site. Together, we can work to ensure that development occurs in a way that respects the history and the people who have supported this community for generations.
What You Can Do to Make a Difference:
Contact Sugarcreek Township Trustees: Voice your concerns about the removal of the cemetery and urge the Trustees to reconsider their decision. https://www.sugarcreektownship.com/143/Board-of-Trustees
Reach Out to State Representatives: Advocate for state-level involvement to help preserve the cemetery. https://turner.house.gov/
Engage with the Developer: Encourage the developer to explore alternatives that do not involve the relocation of the cemetery. https://clearcreekoh.com/ (Yes, I know that looks like a municipal website address, but it is the developers!)
Support Public Petition Efforts: Join the efforts to petition for a public vote on the matter to ensure the community’s voice is heard. Sign the Petition https://chng.it/LKF2W4vVFP
At the end of the day, we all share a stake in creating communities that are built on respect, trust, and a sense of shared purpose. Let’s work together to ensure that the story of Houston Cemetery is one of preservation, not relocation. Stand with us to protect property rights and community integrity. Our next Podcast episode will speak on this matter further – be sure to TUNE IN and SHARE THIS POST AND VIDEO TO RALLY SUPPORT. @realhomestolove3939
by Tammy Murphy | May 14, 2024 | BLOG, Current Events, Estate Planning, Facing Foreclosure, Neighbor Chat, Networking, Podcast, Real Estate News, Real Homes to Love, Sellers, Senior Living, Short Sale
Reverse Mortgages: Unveiling Insights and Pitfalls… At first glance, Reverse Mortgages may seem like a beneficial financial option, especially for seniors looking to tap into their home equity. However, our episode uncovers the hidden complexities and potential risks associated with these arrangements. Through a detailed analysis and invaluable insights, we empower you with a deeper understanding of Reverse Mortgages.
Our mission is clear: to equip you with the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions. By dissecting the intricacies of Reverse Mortgages, we provide you with the tools to navigate this financial option with confidence and clarity. Whether you’re considering a Reverse Mortgage or simply curious about its implications, this episode is a must-listen.
Join us as we unravel the mysteries surrounding Reverse Mortgages and offer practical advice to help you avoid common pitfalls. By staying informed and aware, you can protect yourself and your assets while making sound financial choices for the future.
Tune in to our podcast episode and gain a deeper understanding of Reverse Mortgages. Don’t let the allure of quick cash overshadow the importance of due diligence and informed decision-making. Your financial well-being is paramount, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
** This episode is dedicated to Mildred Elrod, mother of Tammy Lilly, and the subject case of today’s topic. Her passing in December of 2023 brought to light not only the issues of a Reverse Mortgage; but it spotlights the unconscionable preying on our seniors. From their real estate holdings to potential inheritance by family; the government’s insatiable appetite to misrepresent a “solution” that ultimately is a scheme to deteriorate what should be the people’s rights of ownership, wealth accumulation and future generation of wealth inheritance. **
You Tube: https://youtu.be/yrZUlpTG7fo
Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/real-homes-to-love/episodes/The-Real-Tea-SPECIAL-Episode-on-Reverse-Mortgages-e2im43i
