by Tammy Murphy | Aug 15, 2025 | Buyers, Investor Relations, Neighbor Chat, Networking, Real Estate News, Real Homes to Love
Let’s Talk: Property Taxes, Deed Scams, and Why Trusted Professionals Matter More Than Ever
If you’ve lived in the Dayton area for more than a minute, you’ve likely heard the buzz: rising property taxes, deed fraud cases, and a lot of folks wondering if they can “go it alone” in real estate to save a few bucks.
As your local broker and neighbor, I think it’s time we keep the conversation going — not with panic, but with perspective, knowledge, and solutions.
The Property Tax Question: Where’s It All Going?
You’re not imagining things — property tax bills have crept up, and many homeowners are now paying more despite no major changes to their homes. While school funding and community infrastructure are important, transparency and fairness are equally critical.
What you can do:
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Make sure your property is assessed correctly (yes, errors happen!)
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Learn how levies work and when to vote on them
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Speak up at local meetings or connect with others advocating for reform
Want a real-time look at what your home is worth in today’s market (not just the tax office’s guess)? Let’s talk — I can provide a no-pressure CMA.
️♂️ Deed Scams Are Real — But Preventable
We’ve seen a rise in deed scams and title fraud — especially targeting seniors and out-of-town owners. Scammers file false documents to try to “claim” ownership of your property.
Protect yourself by:
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Signing up for property fraud alerts through your County Recorder’s Office
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Monitoring mail for unexpected notices tied to your home
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Working with a trusted real estate professional and title company when buying or refinancing
Bonus tip: If you’re unsure what notices are legit, send them to me — I’ll happily review them for you.
The Value of Working With Real Estate Professionals
In a world of DIY tools and online listings, it might seem like you can handle buying or selling a home solo. But when things go wrong — and they often do — you want someone who knows how to navigate the curves.
✅ Pricing strategies
✅ Legal disclosures
✅ Contract deadlines
✅ Negotiation power
✅ And yes — avoiding scams or unexpected fees
This isn’t just a transaction — it’s your home, your equity, and your peace of mind.
Let’s Keep the Conversation Going
If you’ve had questions about your property taxes, concerns about recent scams, or just need advice on whether now is the right time to make a move — you don’t have to figure it out alone.
Send me a message
Give me a call / text 937-838-0997
☕ Or come sit down over a cup of coffee / tea — no pressure, just real answers.
Let’s protect what you’ve worked hard for — and make informed decisions together.
by Tammy Murphy | Aug 2, 2025 | Market Updates, Neighbor Chat, Networking, Real Estate News, Real Homes to Love
July 2025 Real Estate Market Update: Strong Summer Momentum in Dayton
Hello, Dayton! Summer is in full swing, and the local housing market is showing continued resilience and growth. July 2025 brought impressive gains in home prices and sales, reinforcing the strong upward trend in the Miami Valley’s real estate market.
Homes Sold: 1,426 (+5.8% YoY)
Total Sales Volume: $434M (+13.9%)
Median Price: $270,000 (+9%)
Average Price: $304,479 (+7.7%)
New Listings: 1,837 (+12.3%)
Active Inventory: 2,357 homes (1.65-month supply)
July’s data shows that buyers remain active in the market, and homes continue to sell at their asking price, maintaining a 100% sale-to-list price ratio. This is a clear signal of a healthy, competitive market.
Homes Sold: 8,251 (-2.8% YoY)
Sales Volume: $2.42B (+2.9%)
Median Price: $255,000 (+7.1%)
Average Price: $293,666 (+5.9%)
New Listings: 10,746 (+3.9%)
Even with a small dip in total units sold year-to-date, the upward movement in prices and total sales volume shows that the Dayton market remains strong. Buyers are paying more for homes, and sellers are seeing steady appreciation in property values.
What This Means for Buyers and Sellers
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For Sellers: Rising median and average prices, along with a strong sale-to-list ratio, make this an excellent time to consider listing your home. Even with inventory levels increasing, homes continue to sell quickly and at competitive prices.
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For Buyers: While sales are slightly down, the influx of new listings provides more options. With prices on the rise, acting sooner rather than later can help secure a home before values climb further.
Let’s Connect!
The Dayton market continues to offer opportunities for both buyers and sellers. If you’d like a no-obligation assessment of your home’s value or want to explore your buying power in today’s market, we’re here to help. Reach out and let’s make your real estate goals a reality!
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 22, 2025 | BLOG, Neighbor Chat, Networking, Real Estate News, Real Homes to Love
It’s Time for Real Property Tax Reform in Ohio – And We Need YOUR Voice!
For far too long, Ohio homeowners have been overburdened with skyrocketing property taxes, while receiving little to no accountability from those managing our public funds. Despite growing public outcry, and over 40 proposed pieces of legislation (House and Senate bills) introduced in the last four years, our state leaders have failed to deliver meaningful tax relief or reform.
And now, just as we were finally gaining traction, Governor Mike DeWine vetoed key line items in the State Budget that would’ve laid the groundwork for much-needed change.
The Problem: Runaway Property Taxes, No Accountability
Ohio’s property tax system is outdated, unbalanced, and frankly – unsustainable. Taxpayers are expected to foot the bill while:
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School districts sit on billions in unspent reserves.
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New levies continue to appear on ballots with no cost-cutting required.
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No accountability exists for how municipalities or state agencies allocate the dollars we already pay.
Many counties have seen double-digit percentage increases in property tax bills, leaving seniors, working families, and young homeowners struggling to stay in their homes.
Meanwhile, large developers enjoy tax abatements. Commercial entities leverage legal loopholes. And regular homeowners? We’re left holding the bag.
Legislative Inaction: 40+ Bills, ZERO Progress
Since 2020, dozens of bills aimed at reforming Ohio’s property tax system have been introduced. These proposals sought to:
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Cap annual increases.
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Tie taxation to real household income, not inflated property values.
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Provide tax relief to fixed-income households and first-time buyers.
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Require balanced budgets and cost-cutting mandates before new levies are allowed.
Not one of these bills has made it into law. Why? Because it’s politically easier to keep the broken system in place than to fight for reform.
✊ The People Must Lead – Sign the Petition!
We can no longer wait for lawmakers to do what’s right. This is why the Citizens For Property Tax Reform movement is taking matters into our own hands.
We’re gathering signatures for a ballot initiative to amend Ohio’s Constitution and give power back to the people. The initiative seeks to:
✅ Cap or eliminate property taxes on primary residences
✅ Require full transparency and accountability for levies and school funding
✅ Demand fiscal responsibility and balanced budgets
✅ Prevent taxation without sustainable benefit
️ Where to Sign
We invite YOU to come sign the petition in person at:
RH2L Real Estate
6814 Loop Road, Centerville, OH 45459
Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays 3 – 7 PM and Saturdays 10 AM – NOON. Other times BY APPOINTMENT.
This is your opportunity to be the change that Ohio homeowners have waited for.
Spread the Word – Share the Message!
Every signature counts. Every voice matters. And every homeowner deserves to live without the fear of being taxed out of their home. Here’s how you can help:
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Sign the petition in person at RH2L Real Estate
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Share this blog post with friends, family, and neighbors
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Talk to your local leaders and elected officials – demand reform
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Volunteer to collect signatures or host a petition site
The Bottom Line
We aren’t asking for special treatment – we’re demanding fair treatment. A system that respects our investments, protects our homes, and requires the same financial responsibility from our government that is expected of us.
️ Property tax reform isn’t a political issue — it’s a people issue.
It’s time for real solutions, not more delays.
Sign the petition. Share the message. Stand up for Ohio homeowners. WANT MORE INFO? https://citizensforpropertytaxreform.org/
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.
