Northeast Ohio

Real Estate

August 8, 2025

Happy Friday!

Hope you're doing well and had a great week!


Thank you for checking out this email. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out. Enjoy the weekend!



-Pat

Strongsville: One of the Hottest Market's in the US


Strongsville has been named one of the top 10 hottest housing markets in the United States, according to a new report released by Realtor.com. The suburb’s 44149 ZIP code ranked sixth in the real estate website’s list of Hottest 2025 Zip Codes, which measured demand for homes and how quickly they sold in the first half of the year.


It marks the first time a Cleveland-area suburb has broken into the national Top Ten list. “Through our dedication to safety, the success of our schools, and the high quality of services and amenities provided to our residents, Strongsville has earned national recognition for the exceptional value of buying a home here,” said Strongsville Mayor Tom Perciak in a statement.


The rankings were based on the number of views per property on Realtor.com and the average number of days listings remained active. The top ZIP codes in the U.S. saw 3.6 times more views and homes selling 30 to 42 days faster than the national average. In Strongsville, listings in the 44149 ZIP code received 5.2 times more views than the average and sold in just 25 days. The median listing price was $423,000.


The ranking reinforces Strongsville’s ongoing efforts to invest in infrastructure, education and public services. With an emphasis on community, Strongsville has continued to shine as a sought after destination for families from all over the Midwest.


I cover Strongsville as well as the 58 other cities, villages, and townships in Cuyahoga County. I also serve sellers and buyers in the six surrounding counties. Who do you know who I can help next?


-Pat


What are the hidden costs of owning a home?

Working with buyers, we typically spend a great deal of time talking about the mortgage payment. This is the number most clients like to talk about, as this is what's due monthly. Typically, this will include principal, interest, property taxes, homeowner's insurance, and mortgage insurance (if applicable). When discussing at a higher level the total costs of owning and maintaining a home, these are the the items often overlooked:


  • Property taxes: Vary widely by county and city. Ohio's average effective property tax rate is about 1.56% of home value. Your lender includes this with your mortgage payment. If you would like a breakdown of a taxes in a specific municipality, please reach out


  • Homeowners insurance: Costs about $1,590 per year on average in Ohio but can be higher in areas prone to severe weather.


  • Utilities: Budget for gas, electric, water, sewer, and trash. Ohio's winter heating bills can surprise new homeowners. In many cases, I can give you an estimate of this before closing.


  • Maintenance: Set aside 1% to 4% of your home's value annually for repairs and upkeep. This is often the most overlooked aspect I see


  • HOA fees: These can range from $100 to $600+ monthly if applicable.


The bottom line, there is more to owning a home than simply paying a mortgage. Be sure to consider these factors when budgeting your home purchase.

LISTING OF THE WEEK




3834 Northwood Road

University Heights, OH 44118


$199,900


A beautiful colonial gem nestled in the heart of University Heights. This inviting home greets you with rich hardwood floors that flow seamlessly from room to room, creating an atmosphere of warmth and sophistication. The main living area, is flooded with natural light from expansive windows, making it the perfect place to unwind or entertain. Just imagine cozy evenings in the spacious living room or sunny afternoons with friends and family. Upstairs, the spacious primary bedroom offers a serene retreat. Two additional, generously sized bedrooms on the second floor provide flexibility, whether for guests, a home office, or creative spaces. This home offers central air conditioning, all appliances transfer with the sale, and it’s located on a quiet, desirable street. The backyard boasts an expansive deck as well as a patio that has a built-in firepit. It’s equally suited as a charming primary residence or a lucrative investment property with cash-flow potential. Just minutes from University Circle, Walter Stinson Park, and the best of “The Heights”—from world-class hospitals and museums to trendy shopping and dining—this location has it all. This home is a true University Heights gem, and properties like this don’t last long. Buyer to assume point of sale items with the City of UH. Schedule your showing today and see firsthand the quality and charm of 3834 Northwood!


Pat Barmann
216.990.5719