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 | Mar 12, 2024 | BLOG, Buyers, Client Testimonials, Commercial Properties, Current Events, Estate Planning, Facing Foreclosure, GLOBAL, Investor Relations, LENDERS, Military, Neighbor Chat, Networking, Podcast, Real Estate News, Real Homes to Love, Sellers, Senior Living
We hinted about a project late last year, and are happy to announce that The Real-Tea Podcast is Available Now!
This twist on a Real Estate Podcast presents from a Professional view with a Client Perspective, join Tammy Murphy and Elle Sollenberger, as they spill The Real-Tea about buying and selling Real Estate. You will get to meet our hosts and learn what brought the Realtor and Client together for this fun and sometimes quirky podcast. The years they have shared in working together in multiple deals and different market scenarios is beneficial for anyone looking to Buy or Sell a house.
Curious about our episodes??
check it out on YouTube (video) https://www.youtube.com/@realhomestolove3939/podcasts
or Spotify (audio only) https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/real-homes-to-love
by Tammy Murphy | Nov 18, 2019 | Centerville, Military, Neighbor Chat
If you know me, you know of my involvement with our Blue Star Mothers, Miami Valley Chapter and all that we do to support our military. With the holidays – it is even more important for our organization to send a little token of our gratitude, filled with holiday cheer and lots of LOVE! This event is our top packing party of the year and brings so much joy for us to fill those stockings, for the community to provide donations for the cause and for our military to open the unexpected “gift”. We THANK YOU for helping us to continue this part of our Mission, and I am HONORED to be able to assist in sharing their story.
by Tammy Murphy | Feb 14, 2019 | Apartment, Miamisburg, Military, RENTAL
This 24 unit apartment complex is comprised of 3 buildings, each with 8 units and secured entry to each building. First floor and upper level units range from 500-525 SF with a variation of floor plans; but, all inclusive of utilities (including Entertainment Package for Cable and WiFi service). You will LOVE the convenience of this location and the low maintenance life-style with our furnished apartments. This renovation of a 1st Floor model is our SHOWCASE MODEL and will rent for $800 / month. You’ll have money left over to enjoy life! Tenant Application of $50 is required to confirm eligibility to rent. Units are placed on a first come – first deposit paid basis. Six Month to One Year Leases preferred. EMPLOYERS – we will work with you for Employee Assisted Housing – call Tammy for details!
by Tammy Murphy | Nov 10, 2017 | Military, Real Estate News
Honoring Our Veterans is just what we believe in and do… Often times it is not until a “holiday” or other specific event that takes places for people to RECOGNIZE the importance or meaning of something. We HONOR our Military for their service – EVERYDAY. We are grateful for those who have served, those who are serving now and we know that the future would not be as desirable without those who will serve in the future. Our ACTIONS reflect our THOUGHTS OF GRATITUDE for this SERVICE and we are here to help any Military Member in their real estate needs (whether looking to buy, rent or sale) we know the process involved with your PCS and relocation and will help to make this a seamless and successful move.
We would be happy to meet with you (via Skype or other online service when necessary) and to discuss the direction for your next move. Our Brokerage is pleased to offer you Quality, Professional Service at a Special Military Rate.
by Tammy Murphy | Nov 1, 2017 | Military
First Time Home Buyer programs have become a thing of the past; however, IF you qualify as a Disabled Veteran – there could be a program to help you with making your next move. We would be happy to assist you in finding the right lender with the right program for you!
The Department of Veteran Affairs provides specific grants for service members and veterans with certain permanent and total service-connected disabilities to help buy or build an adapted home, or to modify a home to accommodate a disability. These grants include the Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) grant, and the Home Improvements and Structural Alterations (HISA) grant.
