COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Ohio Department of Commerce Division of Real Estate and Professional Licensing has released a newly updated edition of its Homebuyers Guide to help Ohioans navigate the homebuying process with confidence.
The comprehensive guide offers a range of practical advice, including tips to understanding financing options and how to choose the right real estate professionals. Tailored for first-time buyers, the guide breaks down the often-complex homebuying process, so it provides critical and timely information in an easy-to-digest format. The free electronic guide is now available at com.ohio.gov/Homebuyersguide.
“A home is one of the most significant investments a person will make in their lifetime,” said Division Superintendent Daphne Hawk. “While our new guide was developed with first-time homebuyers in mind, we encourage anyone who is planning to purchase a home in the near future to review it to ensure they are equipped with the knowledge and tools they need to make an informed and confident decision.”
The Division oversees Ohio’s residential real estate market by licensing and regulating real estate agents, appraisers and home inspectors along with manufactured home dealers. As of June 30, 2025, more than 42,000 real estate brokers and sales agents held active licenses, reflecting a 9.09% increase since 2019.
In addition to practical tips and advice included in the guide, the Division reminds homebuyers to be aware of legal changes implemented last year that impacted the homebuying process. For example, buyers working with an agent must now sign a written agreement before touring properties, making offers, or signing residential leases of 18 months or longer. These agreements outline expiration dates, fair housing information, exclusivity terms, and compensation details. Broker fees and commissions remain negotiable and can be paid by the seller, buyer, or a third party.
Visitors to this year’s Ohio State Fair are invited to stop by the Department’s booth in the Bricker Building to pick up a complimentary Homebuyer’s Checklist. The checklist highlights essential steps in the homebuying process and includes a QR code where fairgoers can quickly and easily access the full Homebuyers Guide.
“Purchasing a home can be overwhelming experience, so we look forward to sharing this key resource and information with current and future homeowners across the state, including at the Ohio State Fair,” Hawk said.
For more information about the Homebuyers Guide or other resources for Ohio homebuyers, visit the Division of Real Estate and Professional Licensing’s website at com.ohio.gov/real.