by Tammy Murphy | Nov 8, 2025 | BLOG, Commercial Properties, For Rent, Neighbor Chat, Networking, Property Management, Real Estate News, Real Homes to Love, RENTAL, Spring Valley
New Listing Spotlight: A Lease Opportunity That’s Truly One-of-a-Kind
I don’t always send out blog updates like this, but when a space as special as this comes along, I know it’s worth sharing — not just as a real estate opportunity, but as a moment where historic charm meets modern-day flexibility.
Let me introduce you to 1 W Main Street in Spring Valley, OH — a newly renovated, mixed-use lease property that’s truly unlike anything else in the region.
A Home with History — and a Vision for What’s Next
This two-story brick beauty was originally built in the 1850s, and it’s been lovingly refreshed with new windows, fresh paint, updated kitchen and baths, and energy-efficient upgrades — all while maintaining the charm of its original black walnut staircase, high ceilings, and cozy fireplaces. SEE MORE DETAILS HERE
But what really sets it apart is this:
You can LIVE, WORK, and RELAX all in the same space.
Yes, it’s zoned for both residential and commercial use — opening the door for a variety of unique tenant possibilities.
Who This Might Be Perfect For:
-
A traveling nurse looking for quiet, character-rich short-term housing
-
An entrepreneur ready to launch a boutique, gallery, or therapy studio downstairs while living upstairs
-
Someone looking to host creative workshops or events in a charming small-town setting
-
A small business owner needing office visibility and walkable foot traffic
-
Or even a couple just wanting to live in a home that feels like something from a storybook
Here’s How You Can Help
-
Know someone looking for a unique rental or flexible space? Please forward this!
-
Interested yourself? Reach out and let’s talk about what might be possible.
-
Want to share this opportunity with your online community? I’d be so grateful.
You can learn more at RH2L.com or email me directly at [email protected].
Let’s find the perfect fit for this one-of-a-kind space. Maybe it’s you. Maybe it’s someone you know. Either way, thank you for helping me continue to match Real Homes to Love with amazing people across our community. 😉
by Tammy Murphy | Oct 26, 2025 | BLOG, GLOBAL, Market Updates, Neighbor Chat, Networking, Real Estate News, Real Homes to Love
Dayton Real Estate Market Heats Up: Strong September Shows Double-Digit Growth
The Dayton housing market is showing impressive strength this fall — with home sales, prices, and listings all on the rise. According to the latest report from Dayton REALTORS®, the region’s September sales volume surged to $386 million, marking a 17.7% increase compared to September 2024.
More Homes Sold — At Higher Prices
Dayton REALTORS® reported 1,328 closed transactions in September, up 10% year-over-year, signaling steady buyer confidence despite market shifts earlier in the year.
Prices also continued their upward climb:
-
Average sale price: $291,145 (up 6%)
-
Median sale price: $251,514 (up 8%)
These price gains reinforce that buyer demand remains strong, and Dayton continues to be an affordable yet appreciating market for homeowners and investors alike.
Year-to-Date Numbers Hold Strong
Through the first nine months of 2025, 10,995 properties have sold across the Miami Valley — only 0.4% below last year’s pace. Yet total sales volume rose 5.4% to $3.2 billion, reflecting higher property values and strong market fundamentals.
The average sale price year-to-date sits at $294,434 (a 5.8% increase), while the median price reached $255,000 (up 6.2%). These gains show continued upward momentum, even as national markets adjust.
More Listings Entering the Market
Inventory is also expanding, with 1,612 new listings added in September — a 10% increase over last year. Year-to-date listings total 14,079, up 4.5%.
However, at month’s end, the MLS inventory stood at just 2,562 active properties, representing less than two months of supply — still solidly a seller’s market. Homes that are well-priced and well-presented continue to move quickly.
What This Means for Buyers and Sellers
-
Buyers: More listings give you options, but the competition for desirable homes remains strong. Be ready to act quickly when you find “the one.”
-
Sellers: Rising prices and strong demand make this an excellent time to list. Proper preparation and pricing can help you maximize your return before year-end.
❤️ Local Strength, Lasting Value
The Dayton region continues to showcase resilience and growth — a true reflection of our community’s appeal, affordability, and stability. Whether you’re upgrading, downsizing, or investing, now is a smart time to explore your next move.
Ready to Talk About Your Real Estate Goals?
Let’s review your options together — whether buying, selling, or simply curious about your home’s value, I’m here to help you navigate today’s market with confidence and care.
Contact Tammy Murphy, Broker/Owner – RH2L Real Estate ❤️
Call or text: (937) 838-0997
www.RealHomesToLove.com
by Tammy Murphy | Oct 18, 2025 | Commercial Properties, Neighbor Chat, Networking, Real Estate News, Real Homes to Love, Spring Valley
A Historic Investment with a Fresh New Heart
When our client took on the property at 1 W Main Street in Spring Valley, she didn’t just invest in real estate—she invested in revival, community, and a deep respect for the craftsmanship of generations past.
What once stood as a weathered but proud 1850s brick home has now been transformed into an inspiring blend of heritage and modern function. And the best part? It’s now available as a rental opportunity for the right person to live, work, and create in a truly special space.
Blood, Sweat, and… Elbow Grease
This renovation was a hands-on project from day one. Our client rolled up her sleeves and got to work—literally. From restoring original features to replacing outdated systems, every corner of this property has been carefully updated for comfort, safety, and energy efficiency, without losing the essence of what makes this home a gem.
-
Original black walnut staircase? Preserved.
-
Three fireplaces? Restored.
-
Electrical, insulation, and fixtures? Modernized and upgraded.
The result is a home that breathes life into history—warm, welcoming, and ready for a new chapter.
️ Welcome to Spring Valley Spaces ️
Now branded as Spring Valley Spaces, this property is more than just a house—it’s a versatile space that reflects the charm of small-town living with a forward-thinking approach to work-life balance.
Whether you’re a solo entrepreneur, a traveling nurse, a creative spirit looking for studio space, or a couple wanting to settle into a walkable, trail-friendly town, this home offers flexibility for:
✅ Full home rental
✅ Split-use: upstairs living + downstairs business
✅ Event rentals: garage, backyard, or main floor rooms
✅ Boutique or service-based business storefront
The possibilities are as creative as the community it sits in.
️ Almost Ready for You…️
Renovations are wrapping up in the next week or two, and we’ll soon have updated photos to showcase just how incredible the transformation has been. Trust us—you’ll want to see the before-and-after!
Until then, we’re actively looking for the right tenant or tenant-partner to bring their own story to this incredible space.
Interested? Let’s Talk.
Are you dreaming of a space to live, work, and thrive?
Do you want to be part of a small-town revitalization story that continues to grow?
✨ Let’s connect. This could be your sign.
Contact Tammy Murphy at RH2L to schedule a tour or learn more about how this space can work for YOU.
[email protected] | (937) 838‑0997
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:
-
2018: A family buys a home for $150,000 in Montgomery County. At that time, their property taxes were roughly $2,800/year.
-
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:
-
Transparency in how tax dollars are reported and spent
-
Accountability through independent audits and oversight
-
Fairness in how properties are assessed and taxed
-
Relief for homeowners through exemptions and caps
-
Priorities that place families and residents above big developers and outside investors
-
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.
