Get the Fix and Flip House Market in Ohio Now

Unlocking Fix and Flip Profits in Ohio’s Dynamic 2025 Market

Ohio fix and flip investors are seeing average gross profits between $44,000 and $72,000 per project in 2025—outpacing national averages in mid-tier markets. With home inventory levels stabilizing and demand for updated single-family homes growing, now is the ideal time to execute strategic flips in Ohio. This detailed guide arms you with professional strategies, local data, and actionable insights to capitalize on one of the Midwest’s hottest fix and flip markets in 2025.

Ohio Real Estate Market Overview (2025)

• Median Home Price (Statewide): $224,000 (up 5.7% YoY)
• Typical Days on Market: 22 days in urban centers (Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati); 30–35 days in suburbs
• Inventory Levels: Moderately tight—3.1 months statewide, 2 months or less in high-demand neighborhoods like 43214 and 44109
• Median Rehab Costs (by type):
  • Cosmetic: $30,000–$45,000 (kitchen, bath, paint)
  • Full Gut: $75,000–$120,000 (including mechanicals, roof, major systems)
• Material Pricing: 7–10% higher than 2023, but starting to stabilize after pandemic increases (e.g., $4.25/sq ft for LVP flooring)
• Profitability: Average Ohio flip ROI: 23.1% versus the national average of 21% (source: ATTOM Data, April 2025)

Fix & Flip Strategy Deep Dive

Process Overview

1. Target undervalued properties via MLS, wholesaler lists, and auctions
2. Estimate as-is value (purchase price) and after-repair value (ARV)
3. Create a realistic renovation budget and timeline (typically 8-12 weeks in Ohio markets)
4. Secure financing (hard money, private lender, or cash)
5. Obtain necessary permits and begin renovations
6. Market and sell the home (staged units in Ohio’s suburbs are selling 17% faster in 2025)

Profit Margins & ROI Examples (Ohio 2025)

• Average Purchase Price (Ohio fixers): $98,000–$175,000
• Typical ARV: $210,000–$315,000 in major cities (Columbus, Akron, Dayton, Toledo)
• Renovation Costs: $43,000–$72,000 for mid-range flips
• Holding Costs (4 mo. avg.): $7,300 ($1,825/mo: taxes, insurance, utilities, interim financing interest)
• Example Flip:
  • Purchase: $120,000 (Cleveland 44109)
  • Renovation: $52,000 (3/2 single family, 1,480 sq ft)
  • Holding: $7,300
  • Sale: $238,000
  • Gross Profit: $58,700
  • Net Profit (after 7% selling costs): ~$42,049

Timeframes & Lending

• Acquisition to closing: 15–45 days
• Renovation: 6–14 weeks (depending on scope and weather delays)
• Current Hard Money Rates: 10–12.625% APR, 2–3.5 pts upfront
• Loan-to-Cost (LTC): Up to 85% purchase, 100% renovation (max 70% ARV)

Property Type Analysis for Ohio Flippers

• Single-Family Homes:
  Best Areas:
  
  • Cincinnati (45213, 45215) – high buyer demand for updated ranch and cape cods
  • Columbus (43214, 43220) – proximity to OSU, suburban appeal
  • Cleveland (44109, 44118) – trendy bungalows, strong rental demand
• Condos & Townhomes:
  • Growing opportunity in Columbus urban core (43215, 43201) for millennial buyers
  • Renovation costs average 20% lower vs. single-family ($28–36/sq ft)
• Small Multis (Duplex, Triplex):
  • Strong flip margins in Dayton (45410, 45420) and Akron (44313)
  • Increasing demand from small investors and owner-occupants
  • Extra permitting and lead abatement often required in Cuyahoga County

Property Criteria & Reno Scope

• Structurally sound (foundation, roof, major mechanicals must be serviceable or repairable)
• Built after 1945 preferred to minimize lead/asbestos abatement
• Clear title; avoid extensive code violations (Columbus and Cleveland issue instant Stop Work Orders for unpermitted jobs)

Ohio Neighborhood & ZIP Code Hotlist (2025)

• 43214 – Clintonville, Columbus: Buys: $195–225k, ARV: $315–350k
• 44109 – Old Brooklyn, Cleveland: Buys: $92–125k, ARV: $195–255k
• 45213 – Pleasant Ridge, Cincinnati: Buys: $112–158k, ARV: $239–289k
• 44313 – Northwest Akron: Buys: $89–128k, ARV: $172–205k
• 43220 – Upper Arlington, Columbus: Buys: $220–280k, ARV: $365–445k
• 45410 – South Park, Dayton: Buys: $81–112k, ARV: $153–195k

Local Contractor Pricing (2025):

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Test Your Expertise: The Complexities of the 1031 Exchange

As a sophisticated real estate investor, you understand that the 1031 Exchange is a cornerstone strategy for tax deferral and wealth accumulation. But beyond the basics, the intricacies of the 1031 Exchange rules can pose significant challenges. This quiz is designed to test your in-depth knowledge and highlight critical nuances that separate casual investors from true experts in 1031 Exchange transactions.

Instructions: Choose the best answer for each question.

Start Quiz

Page 1 of 5

Question 1: Understanding "Like-Kind" in a 1031 Exchange

Which of the following scenarios most likely qualifies as a like-kind property exchange under IRS Section 1031, allowing for 1031 Exchange tax deferral?

a) An investor exchanges a portfolio of publicly traded REIT stocks for a commercial retail building. b) An investor exchanges their primary residence, used for personal living for 15 years, for a duplex intended for rental income. c) An investor exchanges raw land held for appreciation in Texas for a stabilized apartment complex in Florida, both held for investment. d) An investor exchanges a classic car collection (personal property) for a single-family rental home (real property).

Page 2 of 5

Question 2: Navigating the 45-Day Identification Period for a 1031 Exchange

An investor sells a multi-family property on June 15th for a 1031 Exchange. According to the strict timelines, by what date must they identify their replacement properties to comply with the 1031 Exchange requirements?

a) July 30th of the same year, as the 45-day period includes weekends and holidays. b) August 29th of the same year, allowing for an extra 45 days if needed. c) December 12th of the same year, aligning with the 180-day completion period. d) January 1st of the following year, if they plan to file for an extension.

Page 3 of 5

Question 3: The Role of a Qualified Intermediary (QI) in a 1031 Exchange

Why is the engagement of a Qualified Intermediary (QI) absolutely critical for the validity of a 1031 Exchange?

a) The QI provides investment advice and helps the investor choose the best replacement property for their 1031 Exchange strategy. b) The QI acts as a liaison with the IRS, directly negotiating tax liabilities related to the 1031 Exchange process. c) The QI holds the proceeds from the relinquished property's sale, preventing the investor from having "constructive receipt" of funds, which would invalidate the 1031 Exchange. d) The QI provides legal and tax advice to ensure the 1031 Exchange is perfectly compliant

Page 4 of 5

Question 4: Understanding "Boot" and its Impact on a 1031 Exchange

An investor sells a commercial building with $500,000 in equity for a 1031 Exchange. They purchase a replacement property for $450,000, effectively reducing their debt by $50,000. What is the tax implication of this scenario within the 1031 Exchange framework?

a) The entire 1031 Exchange is disqualified because the investor "traded down" in value. b) The $50,000 in reduced debt is considered "boot" and will be immediately taxable as partial gain in this 1031 Exchange. c) There are no immediate tax implications, as the primary goal of the 1031 Exchange is only about the "like-kind" nature of the properties. d) The investor can defer the $50,000 as long as they pay off other personal debts with the funds, still qualifying for a full 1031 Exchange.

Page 5 of 5

Question 5: Advanced 1031 Exchange Strategies & Flexibility

An investor aims to sell a highly appreciated single-tenant retail property and replace it with multiple smaller, diversified multi-family units to spread risk. Which of the following 1031 Exchange identification rules best allows for this diversification strategy, maintaining eligibility for a 1031 Exchange?

a) The "Three Property Rule," where the investor can identify up to three properties of any value, regardless of the relinquished property's value, for their 1031 Exchange. b) The "200% Rule," allowing identification of any number of properties, provided their aggregate fair market value does not exceed 200% of the relinquished property's value for the 1031 Exchange. c) The "95% Rule," which states that if more than three properties are identified, the investor must acquire at least 95% of the aggregate value of all identified properties to qualify for the 1031 Exchange. d) All of the above are valid identification rules within a 1031 Exchange, offering flexibility for various investment strategies.

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The Ultimate DSCR Loan for Rental Property Quiz

Are you looking to expand your real estate investment portfolio? A DSCR loan might be the perfect tool to help you achieve your goals without relying on traditional income documentation. Test your knowledge with this quiz to see if you're ready to master the intricacies of a DSCR loan for rental property.

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Page 1 of 5

What is the primary factor a lender considers when approving a DSCR loan for rental property? A) The borrower's personal income and debt-to-income (DTI) ratio. B) The borrower's credit score and employment history. C) The property's potential rental income compared to its monthly expenses, known as the Debt Service Coverage Ratio. This is the key metric for a DSCR loan for rental property eligibility and approval. D) The total value of the borrower's existing investment properties and personal savings.

Page 2 of 5

How does a DSCR loan for a rental property differ from a conventional mortgage for a personal residence? A) A conventional mortgage requires a DSCR calculation, whereas a DSCR loan for a rental property does not. B) A DSCR loan for a rental property primarily focuses on the property's cash flow, allowing investors to qualify without traditional income verification, unlike a conventional mortgage which is based on personal income and liabilities. C) A conventional mortgage has a higher interest rate and stricter requirements than a DSCR loan for a rental property. D) A DSCR loan for a rental property is only available for commercial properties, not residential rental properties.

Page 3 of 5

What is an ideal Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR) for a lender when evaluating a DSCR loan for a rental property? A) A DSCR of 0.75, indicating the property generates 75% of the income needed to cover its debt service. B) A DSCR of 1.00, meaning the property's income exactly equals its debt service. C) A DSCR of 1.25 or higher, as this indicates the property's income is greater than its expenses, making it a strong candidate for a DSCR loan for a rental property and providing a buffer for unexpected costs. D) A DSCR of 2.00, which is the standard minimum for all investment properties, regardless of location or market conditions.

Page 4 of 5

Which of the following expenses are typically included in the calculation of the Debt Service Coverage Ratio for a DSCR loan for a rental property? A) The property's mortgage payment (principal and interest), property taxes, and insurance, which are the core components used to determine if the property can support the debt. B) The property's mortgage payment, property taxes, insurance, and the borrower's personal credit card debt. C) The property's monthly rental income and all utility bills, regardless of who pays them. D) Only the principal and interest payment of the loan, as other expenses are not considered in a DSCR loan for a rental property calculation.

Page 5 of 5

Who would most benefit from using a DSCR loan for a rental property? A) A first-time homebuyer with a W-2 salary and a high debt-to-income ratio, who is looking to purchase a primary residence. B) A seasoned real estate investor with multiple properties who wants to expand their portfolio without using personal income to qualify, making a DSCR loan for a rental property the ideal financing solution for their needs. C) Someone looking to finance a primary residence with a low down payment and a government-backed loan. D) An individual with a very low credit score who cannot qualify for any other type of loan.

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• General Labor: $32–$47/hr statewide (skilled)
• Electricians/Plumbers: $78–$112/hr in Cleveland and Columbus
• Permitting: Most major Ohio cities require permits for all structural, electrical, and plumbing work; $250–$950 typical per project

Development Activity

• Active revitalization in downtown Dayton, Columbus (Short North expansion), and Cleveland’s Detroit-Shoreway corridor
• Watch for Opportunity Zones in 44109 and 43213—tax incentives available

Ohio Fix & Flip Financing Landscape

• Hard Money Lenders:
  • Residential Capital Partners (Columbus, statewide) – 10.5–12.25% APR, 2–3 points, up to 87% LTC
  • DoHardMoney (statewide) – Fix & flip loans up to 70% ARV, no pre-pay penalty
  • Lima One Capital (Cleveland, Cincinnati, Columbus) – 12% typical, fast draws, 6–12 mo. terms
  • Centurion Investments (Cleveland, Dayton) – Small operator-friendly, down to 600 FICO
  • RCN Capital (nationwide, Ohio coverage) – Up to 90% purchase, 100% rehab cost, 12 mo. term
• Private Lenders and Investor Networks:
  • Ohio Real Estate Investors Association (OREIA) – Connects to local lenders, equity partners
  • Meetup.com and Facebook REI groups in each major city
• Typical Fix & Flip Loan Requirements: 10–30% down (purchase), 660+ credit, valid contractor scope and estimates

Step-By-Step Ohio Flip Process for Maximum Profits

1. Define Investment Criteria (ZIP codes, budget, property size, rehab skill level)
2. Deal Sourcing: MLS, wholesalers, sheriff’s auctions, city land banks
3. Property Analysis: Evaluate as-is value, ARV, renovation scope with real comps
4. Project Feasibility: Calculate max allowable offer: ARV × 0.70 – Estimated Repairs
5. Offer & Contract: Include inspection window & assignability clause
6. Secure Financing: Submit required docs to hard money/private lender
7. Due Diligence: Title search, structural/mechanical inspection, environmental review
8. Obtain Permits: Submit plans to local building dept; pay required fees
9. Renovate: Hire, schedule, and manage contractors; track budget tightly
10. Staging & Photography: Professional photos and basic staging increase DOM in Ohio by up to 21%
11. List & Market: List on MLS and investor networks; open houses, local REI forums
12. Sell & Close: Negotiate, review offers, ensure buyer financing; minimize holding time

Pro tip: Most profitable flips in Ohio in 2025 are completed in under 95 days from close to resale.

Due Diligence Checklist for Ohio Flips

• Review title and lien status (county recorder’s office)
• Flood zone and environmental review (especially in 43213, 44109)
• Active code violations or open permits
• Rental compliance (if multi-family—local lead laws)
• HOA restrictions (condo/townhome flips)

Realistic Ohio Flip Example (2025)

Case Study: 44109 – Cleveland, OH

• Purchase Price: $112,000
• Renovation (full cosmetic + roof): $47,000
• Hold (4 months): $7,800
• Sale ARV: $212,000
• Total Costs: $166,800
• Sale (after closing costs 7%): $197,160
• Estimated Net Profit: $30,360
• Timeline: 90 days from purchase to resale

Market Timing Notes: Avoid winter closings if possible—Ohio flips sell 12 days faster in March–June window (2025 OH MLS Data).

Get Started with Ohio Fix & Flip Investing Today

• Target high-ROI neighborhoods with strong entry-level price points
• Build your funding relationships—reach out to top Ohio hard money lenders now
• Don’t shortcut due diligence: permits, title, & compliance
• Stay nimble—monitor local days on market and buyer pool trends monthly

✅ Small Business Resources 

• SBA – Small Business Administration
  https://www.sba.gov

• SCORE Mentors (Free Mentoring & Workshops)
  https://www.score.org
• Small Business Development Centers (SBDC)
  https://americassbdc.org

Are You an SBA Real Estate Loan Expert?

Test your in-depth knowledge on using SBA Loans for owner-occupied commercial Real Estate acquisition. These questions delve into the critical details that can impact your business's growth and financial strategy.

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Page 1 of 5

For an existing commercial property, what is the minimum owner-occupancy percentage required for an SBA 7(a) real estate loan, and does this specific scenario qualify?

A manufacturing company plans to acquire a 30,000 sq ft industrial real estate facility using an SBA 7(a) Loan. The company initially needs 18,000 sq ft for its operations and intends to lease out the remaining 12,000 sq ft.

A) 60%; Yes, it qualifies. B) 51%; Yes, it qualifies. C) 75%; No, it does not qualify. D) 60%; No, it does not qualify, as they are leasing out a portion.

Page 2 of 5

Which of the following sets most accurately represents additional cost categories that can typically be financed within an SBA 504 Loan for a commercial real estate project?

Hint: Beyond the straightforward purchase of a commercial real estate property, an SBA 504 Loan is highly effective for comprehensive projects.

A) Business inventory, working capital, and employee salaries. B) Building renovations, long-term machinery essential to operations within the property, and soft costs like architectural fees. C) Advertising expenses, short-term equipment leases, and utility deposits. D) Personal real estate investments, vehicles for personal use, and stock market investments.

Page 3 of 5

Between an SBA 7(a) Loan and an SBA 504 Loan, which program generally offers the lowest typical borrower down payment for a commercial real estate acquisition, and what is that common minimum percentage for established businesses?

A highly profitable professional services firm in a competitive market wants to purchase its office real estate with minimal upfront capital. The firm's owners prioritize cash flow and liquidity.

A) SBA 7(a) Loan; 15% B) SBA 504 Loan; 10% C) SBA 7(a) Loan; 5% D) SBA 504 Loan; 20%

Page 4 of 5

For new construction, what is the initial minimum owner-occupancy percentage required, and what is the maximum timeframe to meet the full owner-occupancy threshold, for an SBA Real Estate Loan?

A fast-growing tech startup plans to construct a new 50,000 sq ft headquarters using an SBA Loan. They will immediately occupy 35,000 sq ft and have a definitive plan to occupy the remaining 15,000 sq ft within two years as their team expands.

A) Initial 51%, full 80% within 5 years. B) Initial 60%, full 80% within 3 years. C) Initial 75%, full 100% within 1 year. D) Initial 51%, full 100% within 2 years.

Page 5 of 5

What is this crucial requirement, and what fundamental principle does it underscore for the lender?

When securing an SBA Loan for a commercial real estate purchase, principal owners with a 20% or greater ownership stake are almost universally required to provide a specific type of assurance beyond the collateral of the real estate itself.

A) A fixed-rate interest payment commitment, demonstrating long-term stability. B) A first-lien position on all personal assets, ensuring full recovery. C) A personal guarantee, signifying the owners' personal commitment to loan repayment. D) A business plan with projected revenue growth of at least 15% annually, showing future viability.

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Ready to start flipping houses in Ohio? Bookmark this guide, connect with your local REIA, and pull the trigger on a smart, well-structured flip today. The 2025 market rewards expertise and speed—use these strategies to cash in.

Get a no obligation quote today. 

✅ Real Estate Investor Resources

• AirDNA (Short-Term Rental Data)
  https://www.airdna.co

• Rentometer (Rent Comps)
  https://www.rentometer.com
• Zillow Research & Data
  https://www.zillow.com/research

DSCR Loan IQ Quiz!

Test your knowledge of Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR) loans!

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Page 1 of 3

What is the primary factor a lender focuses on when approving a DSCR loan for an investment property? a) The borrower's personal debt-to-income (DTI) ratio b) The property's ability to generate enough income to cover its mortgage payments c) The borrower's credit score history over the past 10 years d) The total number of investment properties the borrower already owns

Page 2 of 3

If a property has a Net Operating Income (NOI) of $5,000 per month and its total monthly debt service (PITI) is $4,000, what is its DSCR? a) 0.8x b) 1.0x c) 1.25x d) 5.0x

Page 3 of 3

Which type of borrower most commonly benefits from using a DSCR loan? a) First-time homebuyers purchasing a primary residence b) Investors with a strong W-2 income and minimal tax deductions c) Self-employed individuals or those with complex income who want to avoid traditional income verification d) Homeowners looking to refinance their primary residence for a lower interest rate

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