Southern Ohio Real Estate News, Market Trends & Home Buying Tips

Welcome to the Vance Team Realtors blog — your go-to resource for Southern Ohio real estate news, local market trends, and practical advice for buyers and sellers across Highland County and beyond.

Whether you are searching for homes for sale in Hillsboro, Ohio, trying to understand what the current market means for your home's value, or looking for honest guidance on buying or selling a home in Southern Ohio — you will find straightforward, locally focused content here written by people who actually live and work in this community.

Our blog covers a wide range of topics, including:

  • Highland County and Southern Ohio market updates — real numbers, real trends, no fluff
  • Home buying tips — from getting pre-approved to making your first offer
  • Home selling strategies — how to price, prepare, and market your home for the best result
  • Community spotlights — what makes Hillsboro and Southern Ohio such a great place to call home
  • Real estate news — what is happening in the broader market and what it means locally

Bryan and Rene Vance have been serving buyers and sellers across Highland, Clinton, Adams, Brown, Ross, Fayette, and Pike County since 2015. Every post on this blog reflects real local knowledge from agents who are active in this market every single day.

Have a question about the Southern Ohio real estate market, or ready to take the next step? We would love to hear from you.

📞 Call or text Bryan: 937-776-3405 📞 Call or text Rene: 937-205-6513 👉 Search Homes for Sale in Hillsboro Ohio

Aug. 15, 2025

Tiny Houses For Sale

Tiny House and Hunting Land For Sale

Price Reduction Alert: Your Dream Property Awaits at 1437 Green Ridge Rd., Peebles, Ohio!

Great news for nature lovers and tiny house enthusiasts! The price for the exceptional property at 1437 Green Ridge Rd., Peebles, Ohio 45660 has been reduced to $142,500! This unique opportunity combines a charming living space with beautiful, natural surroundings, making it perfect for a weekend retreat, a full-time residence, or even a potential Airbnb rental.

About the Property

This one-of-a-kind property features an Amish-built tiny house that includes:

  • One cozy bedroom for restful nights
  • One bathroom designed for comfort and convenience
  • A washer and dryer—a rare find in tiny homes, making life easier and keeping your getaway hassle-free

Step outside and enjoy the stunning views from the 14-foot front deck, an ideal spot for sipping your morning coffee or unwinding after a day of exploring.

The property is set on five wooded acres that border the picturesque Pike State Forest. This location offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventures, from hiking to hunting, making it an ideal choice for nature enthusiasts.

Additionally, you'll appreciate the included mini barn for extra storage. It’s perfect for storing outdoor gear, tools, or anything else you need to make the most of your property.

Perfect for Various Uses

Whether you’re looking for a cozy weekend getaway, a peaceful full-time residence, or a savvy investment opportunity for an Airbnb, this property has it all! The charming tiny house and expansive wooded land provide plenty of options to live off the grid or enjoy the natural beauty of Ohio.

Imagine waking up to the sounds of nature, with hiking trails and the chance to observe local wildlife right outside your door. This property is not just a home; it’s a lifestyle!

Don’t Miss Out!

With a reduced price of $142,500, this amazing opportunity won't last long. Properties like this are rare, especially with all the features it offers. Take the first step toward your dream lifestyle and schedule a visit today!

For inquiries or to set up a showing, please contact us. Your perfect retreat is waiting for you at 1437 Green Ridge Rd., Peebles, Ohio—don’t let it slip away!

✨ Act fast and make this incredible property yours today! ✨

Posted in Homes For Sale
Aug. 13, 2025

Ohio Hunting Land For Sale

4655 Grassy Fork Rd. Peebles, OH 45660

Your new hunting retreat in Southern Ohio is waiting for you.  Don't miss this excellent opportunity to own eleven plus acres of wooded land in Pike County, Ohio.  This property will make a great weekend retreat or hunting getaway (just add a tiny house).  With a paid-for County water tap at the road, building your dream home here is also a possibility.

We are happy to announce an improved price of $94,900 for this rare find.  Contact Southern Ohio's top real estate team, Vance Team Realtors, today to schedule a private showing or to learn more.

Posted in Homes For Sale
July 17, 2025

6651 Wizard of Oz Way - Hillsboro Ohio Homes For Sale

🏡 Lake Life is Calling: Welcome to 6651 Wizard of Oz Way, Hillsboro, OH
A Charming Rocky Fork Lake Retreat Just Minutes from the Water!

If you've been dreaming of a place near the lake—whether to unwind on the weekends, settle down full-time, or invest in a potential Airbnb—this one checks all the boxes!

Nestled just 4 minutes from the water at Rocky Fork Lake, 6651 Wizard of Oz Way is a well-maintained 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom home that's full of charm and practical features designed for comfort, convenience, and lake-life enjoyment.

🌟 Property Features:

  • 🛏 2 Spacious Bedrooms – Plenty of room for you and your guests.

  • 🛁 2 Full Bathrooms – No need to share when hosting family or friends.

  • 🚗 Oversized Detached Garage – Perfect for storing your boat or lake toys.

  • 🏡 Storage Shed – Keep your lawn tools and garden gear organized and out of sight.

  • 🌳 Well-kept yard and peaceful surroundings

  • 🛶 Just minutes from the beach, boat launch, and all that Rocky Fork Lake has to offer!

Whether you're into boating, fishing, hiking, or just relaxing by the water, this property is perfectly situated for all kinds of adventures.

🏖️ A Versatile Opportunity:

Use it as a weekend getaway, enjoy it as your permanent home, or turn it into a profitable Airbnb rental. With its ideal location and solid features, the possibilities are endless.


📍 Location: 6651 Wizard of Oz Way, Hillsboro, OH
📞 Contact Vance Team Realtors today to schedule a private tour and make your lake dreams a reality!

🔗 Check out the full listing details here!

 

#RockyForkLake #HillsboroOH #VanceTeamRealtors #LakeHomeForSale #OhioRealEstate #WeekendRetreat #AirbnbOpportunity #BoatLife

Posted in Homes For Sale
July 17, 2025

Peebles Ohio Homes For Sale - 1437 Green Ridge Rd

 

🏡 Featured Property: 1437 Green Ridge Rd., Peebles, OH
Your Private Woodland Getaway Awaits!

If you’ve been searching for peace, privacy, and a simpler way of living—this is the property you’ve been waiting for.

Tucked away on five mostly wooded acres and directly bordering Pike State Forest, this cozy and beautifully crafted Amish-built mini house offers an incredible opportunity for anyone looking to slow down and enjoy nature without sacrificing comfort.

✨ Property Highlights:

  • 14x32 Amish-Built Mini House – Thoughtfully designed with durable craftsmanship and rustic charm.

  • 10x12 Mini Barn – Perfect for storing gear, tools, or transforming into a hobby space.

  • One Bedroom, One Bath – A cozy open-concept layout that makes smart use of every inch.

  • Mini Split Heating & Cooling – Efficient comfort all year long.

  • Spacious Front Deck – Ideal for sipping morning coffee, watching the wildlife, or relaxing in the evening.

Whether you’re looking for a weekend retreat, a full-time residence, or a unique Airbnb opportunity, 1437 Green Ridge Rd. checks all the boxes. The surrounding Pike State Forest offers endless outdoor recreation like hiking, hunting, and exploring—right in your backyard.

And with Long’s Retreat just 12 minutes away, there’s fun for the whole family just around the corner.


🌲 Escape the noise. Embrace the quiet.
This is more than a home—it’s a lifestyle.

📞 Contact Vance Team Realtors today to schedule your private showing and see if this hidden gem is your next adventure.

🔗 Full Listing Details Here!

#PeeblesOH #TinyHomeLiving #PikeStateForest #VanceTeamRealtors #WeekendGetaway #AmishBuilt #OhioRealEstate #NatureRetreat

Posted in Homes For Sale
July 16, 2025

Homes For Sale Wilmington Ohio - 1352 Hiney Rd.

🌾 Just Listed by Vance Team Realtors: 1352 Hiney Rd, Wilmington, OH

Your Private Country Retreat Awaits – 5 Bedrooms, 3 Baths on 9.57 Acres!

If you've been dreaming of peace, privacy, and plenty of room to roam — your opportunity is here! Vance Team Realtors is excited to present this stunning new listing at 1352 Hiney Rd in Wilmington, Ohio, a truly one-of-a-kind country retreat offering both comfort and functionality in a breathtaking rural setting.

Set well back from the road on nearly 10 acres of scenic land, this beautifully updated 5-bedroom, 3-bath home welcomes you with a long blacktop driveway and all the charm and space you'd expect from life in the country — without sacrificing modern style.


🏡 Home Features You'll Love:

  • Open-Concept Living: The heart of the home features soaring cathedral ceilings and rich hickory floors, creating a warm and inviting space for gathering and relaxing.

  • Fully Finished Walkout Basement: Ideal for entertaining, guests, or multi-generational living. There's even a wood burner (not currently connected) that could heat the entire home.

  • Storage Galore: From closets to built-ins, you’ll have plenty of room to stay organized.

  • Durability Meets Style: The metal shingle roof offers long-term protection and peace of mind.

  • Thoughtful Updates: Enjoy the comfort of recent updates throughout the home that blend rustic charm with modern convenience.


🛠 Bonus Space:

Need a place for your tools, toys, or creative pursuits? You’ll love the massive 35x60 pole barn complete with concrete floors and electric — ideal for a workshop, hobby space, or additional storage.


Whether you’re looking for your forever family home, a hobby farm, or simply some breathing room away from the hustle, this property has the space, layout, and features to fit your lifestyle.


📍 Located in the peaceful countryside of Clinton County, yet still just a short drive to I-71 and local amenities, 1352 Hiney Rd is the perfect balance of privacy and convenience.


📞 Ready to Take a Look?

Schedule your private tour today with Vance Team Realtors – your trusted local experts who know what it means to find the right place to call home.

💬 Call or message us to learn more, or click here to schedule a showing!


 

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Posted in Homes For Sale
July 14, 2025

Tips To Buy Your First Home

 

The Advice Every First-Time Homebuyer Needs – From Vance Team Realtors

Buying your first home is a major milestone, and the right guidance can make all the difference. At Vance Team Realtors, we’ve helped many first-time buyers through this exciting journey—and we’re here to make sure your experience is as smooth, informed, and stress-free as possible.

While this process may be brand new to you, it’s not new to us. We know what works, what to look out for, and how to help you avoid common pitfalls. Here are a few tried-and-true tips from our experience working with buyers just like you:


Tip #1: Get Pre-Approved First
We see it all the time—buyers jump straight into looking at homes online before speaking to a lender. But here’s the truth: falling in love with a home you can’t afford is a fast track to frustration.

Before you dive into listings, let’s connect you with a trusted local lender who can get you pre-approved. That way, you’ll know exactly what you can afford, and we’ll only show you homes that match your budget. It makes the whole process more efficient and a lot less stressful.


Tip #2: Set a Budget—And Stick To It
Just because a lender approves you for a certain amount doesn’t mean you should spend it all. With rising costs for insurance, taxes, and possible HOA fees, it's important to stay within a realistic and comfortable budget.

We’ll help you think beyond just the monthly payment and make sure you’re accounting for all the hidden expenses that come with homeownership. That’s what having an experienced team on your side is all about.


Tip #3: Don’t Skip the Inspection
It’s tempting to waive the inspection to make your offer more appealing—but that move can backfire. Big time.

We’ll guide you through the inspection process, connect you with reliable local professionals, and help you understand the results. If something unexpected pops up, we’ll help you negotiate repairs or concessions so you don’t end up with costly surprises after closing.


Tip #4: Your First Home Doesn’t Have To Be Your Forever Home
Don’t stress about finding “the perfect home.” Your first home is just that—a first step. Whether it’s a cozy starter house, a townhouse in a great neighborhood, or a condo with potential, we’ll help you find the right fit for your current stage of life. The goal is to start building equity and grow from there.


Bottom Line:
Buying your first home is a big deal—but it doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. The Vance Team is here to answer your questions, guide you through the process, and make sure you feel confident at every step.

Let’s talk about where you’re starting, what concerns you may have, and how we can help you move forward.

💬 What’s one question you wish you could ask a real estate expert right now?
📲 DM us or visit www.vanceteamrealtors.com to get started today.

 

#VanceTeamRealtors #FirstTimeHomebuyer #HomeBuyingTips #RealEstateAdvice #StartSmart #OhioHomes

Posted in Buyer Information
July 12, 2025

Martinsville, Ohio Homes For Sale

Clinton County, Ohio Homes For Sale under $200,000

 

Homes in livable condition priced under $200,000 are a rare find these days.  Welcome home!  You've finally found the home you've been looking for.  Located in the small town of Martinsville, Ohio, this three-bedroom, one-bathroom home with a fenced backyard and oversized detached garage is ready for a new owner.

 

Martinsville is an excellent location for anyone who might work in Blanchester, Wilmington, or Hillsboro.

 

This lovely Martinsville home for sale features a covered front porch and a spacious laundry room that could be converted into a second bathroom.  Nice corner lot with no one directly behind you.  The 28 x 28 detached garage, equipped with electricity, concrete floors, and heat, is the perfect setup for those who enjoy working on cars, woodworking projects, and various other activities.

 

Check out the full listing details and schedule your private showing here!

Posted in Homes For Sale
July 11, 2025

Just Sold! 1131 Campbell St. Washington Court House, Ohio

🎉 Just Sold! 🏡✨

Congratulations to Phillip and Breanna on the purchase of your very first home at 1131 Campbell St, Washington Court House! 🎊🔑

We’re so excited for you as you start this new chapter, and we’re grateful to have been part of your homebuying journey.

 

From all of us at Vance Team Realtors — welcome home! 💚

Posted in Sold Listings
June 19, 2025

3 Reasons To Buy A Home This Summer

Three Reasons To Buy A Home This Summer

 

Many buyers have been on the sidelines waiting for the right time to buy a home.  With interest rates remaining high, buyer activity has slowed down.  With the summer buying season now in full swing, now is the time to make your move if you have been waiting for the right time.  Today, we will discuss three reasons you should buy a home this summer.

 

More Inventory: Starting around 2020, inventory has been limited.  Low interest rates drove buyer activity, which led to houses going under contract within one day with multiple offers.  The higher rates have slowed the buyer activity, which is causing homes to stay on the market longer and giving buyers more options.

Less Competition: With buyer activity being slower, the days of multiple offers on the first day are over.  Higher interest rates have many buyers sitting on the sidelines waiting for cheaper money.  With less competition in the market, today's buyers have more options.

More Negotiating Power: Fewer buyers mean sellers are more open to working with a buyer to get their home sold.  This can mean a lower price, the seller being willing to pay closing costs on behalf of the buyer, or the seller being more open to making repairs after the home inspection.

 

The Bottom Line: Whether you are a first-time buyer or a current homeowner who needs a bigger or smaller home, this summer can offer a golden opportunity to make your move.  Let’s get started with your home search today.  Visit our website at www.vanceteamrealtors.com to get started today.

 

June 18, 2025

Homes For Sale Hillsboro OH (Price Reduced)

 

Price Reduced!

 

Same great home with an all-new price!  Price reduced to $198,000.  Make your appointment today for a private showing.

 

6651 Wizard of Oz Way, Hillsboro, OH 45133 will make a great lake retreat or permanent residence for someone who wants to be close to Rocky Fork Lake.  With the boat launch being just three minutes away, this home is in the perfect location.

 

Meticulously maintained and ready for a new owner. Nothing for you to do but move in and make it yours.

Posted in Market Updates