Dayton Ohio Realtor Review: Why Dwayne and Patti Trusted Us Four Times

Some of the most meaningful client relationships Cyndi and I have developed did not end when the first closing was completed. They continued into the next move, the next home and, sometimes, an important decision involving someone the clients love.

Dwayne and Patti Deis are a wonderful example of that.

Over the years, we have had the privilege of helping Dwayne and Patti through four different real estate transactions. We helped them sell their home in Beavercreek. We walked with them through the process of building a new home in Fairborn. Later, they asked us to help them purchase a residential property in Kettering for a loved one, and we eventually helped them sell that home as well.

When clients invite us back into their lives for a second, third and fourth transaction, we never take that trust for granted.

Watch Dwayne and Patti Share Their Experience

There are plenty of places online to read Dayton Ohio Realtor reviews. Those reviews are helpful, but there is something especially meaningful about hearing clients tell their own story in their own words.

In this interview, Dwayne and Patti talk about the practical parts of working with us: preparing a house for the market, choosing a price, finding the right home and making it through the buying and selling process. More importantly, they talk about honesty, trust and feeling like we were working alongside them.

That is exactly the kind of relationship Cyndi and I want to have with every client.

It Started With a Beavercreek Home and a Lot of Furniture

Dwayne and Patti were our next-door neighbors when they decided to sell their first home. Like many homeowners preparing to sell, they knew their house well, but they were not sure how buyers would respond to the way it was furnished and arranged.

They had accumulated quite a bit of furniture and many personal belongings. Their biggest question was not whether they liked their home. It was how to present it so a buyer could immediately see the home at its best.

We brought in professional staging help and worked through the recommendations together. I appreciate the way Patti described that part of the experience. She remembered it as a partnership—not a list of demands about what they “had to” remove or change.

That distinction matters to me. When we help someone with selling a home in Beavercreek, our job is to offer experienced advice and explain why we believe certain changes will help. It is still the seller’s home, and the decisions should be made together.

The preparation paid off. The house showed well, attracted buyer interest and sold for more than the asking price.

Pricing Requires More Than Agreeing With the Seller

One part of Dwayne’s interview made me smile. Before we listed that first house, he had a selling price in mind. Based on what I saw in the market and what I believed buyers would recognize in the home, I recommended a list price nearly $20,000 higher than the figure he had been considering.

The home then sold for more than our asking price.

I do not share that to suggest every seller should simply choose a higher price. In fact, overpricing a house can be one of the most damaging mistakes a seller makes. I share it because good pricing is about evidence, local market knowledge and a careful evaluation of the individual property—not flattery and not guesswork.

Patti said during the interview that we did not promise them the moon. I consider that a tremendous compliment.

Sellers deserve an honest assessment, even when the conversation is not easy. They also deserve an agent who recognizes value they may not see themselves. Our responsibility is to study the market, tell clients what we genuinely believe and recommend a strategy we can support with facts.

Both homes that Dwayne and Patti asked us to list ultimately sold above asking price. Those results began with honest conversations, thoughtful preparation and pricing strategies grounded in the market at the time.

Then the Relationship Moved From Selling to Building

After the Beavercreek sale, Dwayne and Patti were ready for a different kind of move. Their next chapter involved building a home in Fairborn.

Buying new construction can look simple from the outside. The house is new, the plans are attractive and the builder has a representative ready to answer questions. But the builder’s representative works for the builder. Buyers deserve someone in the process who is looking out for their interests.

Cyndi spent the time necessary to help Dwayne and Patti consider their options and move toward the home that was right for them. Dwayne described our roles well: I helped them prepare, price and sell, while Cyndi helped them find the right homes to consider. That is one of the real strengths of working with us as a husband-and-wife real estate team.

For buyers researching Fairborn homes and new-construction opportunities, representation is important before making commitments or beginning detailed conversations with a builder. An experienced Fairborn Realtor can help a buyer think beyond the model-home presentation and consider the homesite, upgrades, future resale value, contract terms and the many decisions that come with building.

We were grateful to walk through that process with Dwayne and Patti rather than simply meeting them again at the closing table.

The Kettering Home Had a Personal Purpose

Their next real estate decision was not simply about their own move. Dwayne and Patti wanted to purchase a residential property in Kettering for a loved one.

That kind of purchase can carry a different weight. The numbers and the condition of the house still matter, but so do the needs of the person who will call it home. It requires listening carefully and understanding why the purchase is being made in the first place.

We helped them buy that Kettering home and, when the time eventually came, we helped them sell it. That completed our fourth transaction together.

Whether someone is buying a home for themselves, helping a family member or preparing to sell a property that has served its purpose, they need more than someone who can unlock a door or place a sign in the yard. They need a Realtor who understands the decision behind the transaction.

What Repeat Clients Tell Me About Good Real Estate Service

No two homes and no two transactions are exactly alike. Dwayne and Patti’s experience included staging an occupied home, determining the right asking price, negotiating successful sales, building a new home and purchasing a residence for someone they cared about.

The common thread was not a particular house or city. It was the relationship.

When people search for an experienced Dayton Ohio Realtor, they naturally want to know whether an agent understands the local market. They should also consider whether that agent will be candid when the answer is not what they hoped to hear, take the time to explain recommendations, and remain involved when the process becomes more complicated than expected.

Dwayne and Patti described us as transparent, realistic and knowledgeable about the market. They said we made the process smooth and worked well together as partners. Hearing those words means a great deal because that is the experience Cyndi and I work hard to provide.

Our Thanks to Dwayne and Patti

Dwayne and Patti, thank you for trusting us with four important real estate decisions and for taking the time to share your experience. We are thankful that a relationship that began between neighbors grew into a lasting friendship and many years of working together.

Cyndi and I have been helping people buy and sell homes throughout Dayton and the Miami Valley since 2004. We serve Beavercreek, Fairborn, Kettering and many surrounding communities, but our work has never been only about locations or transactions. It is about caring for people, giving them honest guidance and earning the opportunity to help them again.

If you are preparing to buy or sell a home in the Dayton, Ohio area and would like to talk with us, we would be honored to learn about your plans and see how we can help.

Moving to Dayton? Consider Oakwood, Ohio: How Local Knowledge Helped One Couple Find Home

Moving to a new city is about much more than purchasing a house. It means learning the personality of different communities, understanding an unfamiliar real estate market, and discovering where daily life will feel most comfortable.

Mark and Teresa Klancik faced all of those decisions when they began planning a move from Virginia to the Dayton area. They wanted to live closer to their daughter, but they had no other contacts in Ohio and knew very little about the communities surrounding Dayton.

They needed experienced local real estate agents who would listen carefully, offer honest advice, and help them understand not only the available homes, but also the neighborhoods around them.

A trusted family recommendation led them to Don and Cyndi Shurts of Keller Williams Community Partners Realty—and ultimately to a home and community they love in Oakwood, Ohio.

Watch Mark and Teresa’s Oakwood Homebuying Story

In this video, Mark and Teresa describe what it was like to buy a home from another state and how personal guidance made an unfamiliar process feel manageable.

“Honestly, with the amount of time that we had, I felt like he was our personal real estate agent,” Teresa said. “I knew he had other clients at the time, but he made us feel like we were truly his only clients.”

That sense of personal attention became especially important as they searched for a home hundreds of miles away.

Buying a Dayton-Area Home From Virginia

Online listings gave Mark and Teresa a way to begin exploring the market, but photographs and property descriptions could only tell them so much.

They needed someone local who could walk through prospective homes, look beyond the camera angles and provide a candid assessment of each property. Don personally visited homes on their behalf, recorded detailed video tours, and shared his observations about the condition, layout, setting, and surrounding area.

“And Don went above and beyond because he actually would go and visit the properties,” Teresa explained. “We loved his candor and his commentary on each of the properties.”

These were not simply video walkthroughs. Each tour helped Mark and Teresa learn more about the local market—and helped Don better understand what mattered most to them.

“He really helped us whittle down the market pretty quickly to just a handful of houses,” Teresa said.

This kind of guidance can be invaluable for anyone moving to Dayton, Ohio, especially when a job transfer, family commitment, or other timeline makes repeated trips to the area difficult.

Finding the Right Community—not Just the Right House

Mark and Teresa began their search with a list of amenities they believed they wanted. However, as Don showed them different parts of the Dayton area, one conversation changed the direction of their search.

While passing a neighborhood, Don described it as a place where people spent time on their porches and developed a real sense of community.

That description immediately connected with them.

“Oh, well, forget the amenities,” Teresa remembered thinking. “I think we want to live there and be part of this community.”

That moment revealed something important: the Klanciks were not simply looking for a house with the right collection of features. They wanted a neighborhood that felt welcoming and connected.

Don listened, adjusted the search, and helped them focus on what they genuinely valued.

“He was able to pivot from what we originally wanted to what we really wanted,” Teresa said. “By the end, we were very focused.”

Their search ultimately led them to Oakwood.

Getting to Know Oakwood, Ohio

Located directly south of Dayton and immediately north of Kettering, Oakwood is an established residential community with a distinctive identity.

The city describes Oakwood as an intimate community made up of interconnected neighborhoods. Its tree-lined streets contain an impressive variety of architectural styles, including charming cottages, traditional two-story homes, stately historic residences, and beautifully updated luxury properties.

Oakwood’s history is reflected throughout its housing. Schantz Park, for example, includes approximately 400 homes in a neighborhood listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Together, those homes create what the city calls a “textbook of architectural styles.”

The community also offers parks, natural areas, recreation facilities, and neighborhood businesses. Many streets have sidewalks, mature trees, and homes positioned close enough to the street to create the inviting residential atmosphere that first appealed to Mark and Teresa.

For people considering Oakwood homes for sale, the community provides an opportunity to own a home with character while remaining close to many of the institutions, employers and cultural destinations that make Dayton an attractive place to live.

Convenient Access to Downtown Dayton

Location is one of the most compelling reasons to consider living in Oakwood.

Oakwood offers the residential character of an established community while providing easy access to downtown Dayton and its growing collection of employers, restaurants, businesses, and entertainment destinations.

That proximity can be particularly valuable for professionals working at CareSource and other businesses based in downtown Dayton. Instead of choosing between neighborhood atmosphere and access to the city’s employment center, Oakwood residents can enjoy the advantages of both.

Downtown Dayton continues to evolve as a destination for dining, entertainment, business and community events. Living nearby makes it easier to enjoy a restaurant, attend a Dragons baseball game, participate in a downtown festival or spend an evening at one of the city’s performing-arts venues.

For buyers relocating to work in or near downtown Dayton, Oakwood deserves serious consideration.

Near Miami Valley Hospital and Kettering Health

Oakwood is also conveniently positioned between two of the Dayton region’s major healthcare centers.

Miami Valley Hospital is located on Wyoming Street just north of Oakwood. Its location can make Oakwood especially appealing to physicians, nurses, administrators, medical residents, and other professionals who value a convenient connection to the hospital.

To the south, Kettering Health Main Campus is located on Southern Boulevard in Kettering. Many longtime residents still know the facility by its former name, Kettering Medical Center. Founded in 1964, it serves as Kettering Health's flagship medical center.

Oakwood’s position between these two healthcare centers offers an attractive central location for medical professionals and households connected to either health system.

Close to the University of Dayton

Oakwood also provides convenient access to the University of Dayton.

The university’s main campus is located less than two miles from downtown Dayton, placing it close to Oakwood and the surrounding residential areas. This can make Oakwood worth considering for university employees, faculty members, visiting professionals, and families who enjoy University of Dayton athletics, cultural programs, and community events.

The nearby Brown Street district provides additional restaurants and businesses, while UD Arena draws basketball fans and visitors from across the Miami Valley.

For many residents, Oakwood’s location creates a comfortable connection between neighborhood life, the university and downtown Dayton.

Arts and Culture Close to Home

People who appreciate visual art, theater, music and live performance will find many of Dayton’s leading cultural institutions within easy reach of Oakwood.

The Dayton Art Institute presents exhibitions, educational programming and a celebrated permanent collection in one of the city’s most recognizable buildings.

In the heart of downtown, the Benjamin & Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center and historic Victoria Theatre host concerts, Broadway productions, ballet, opera and other live performances. The two venues are central to Dayton’s performing-arts community.

Oakwood residents can enjoy dinner downtown, attend a performance at the Schuster Center or Victoria Theatre and return home without traveling across the region. That convenient access adds another dimension to the Oakwood lifestyle.

Understanding Oakwood Real Estate

Oakwood’s architectural variety and established housing inventory make local real estate knowledge particularly important.

Two homes with similar square footage may differ significantly in age, architecture, updates, lot characteristics, and long-term maintenance considerations. Even nearby streets can offer different settings and housing styles.

Mark and Teresa were accustomed to the Northern Virginia real estate market. They needed someone who could help them understand how Oakwood homes were valued and what made this market different.

“Don really provided some of that context and nuance to this older neighborhood that we found here,” Mark explained. “That all comes from experience.”

An experienced Oakwood real estate agent can help buyers understand those nuances, evaluate comparable sales, and recognize how improvements, location, and property condition may affect value.

That same local knowledge is equally important for an Oakwood homeowner preparing to sell.

Acting Quickly When the Right Home Appeared

Mark and Teresa also faced a timing challenge. They were selling their home in Virginia and hoped to coordinate that closing with their purchase in Ohio so they would not need to carry two mortgages.

When a home that seemed like the right fit came on the market, Don helped them move decisively.

“We were looking at a house, and he knew it just came on the market,” Teresa recalled. “We really wanted to move on the house.”

Don recommended submitting an offer that day with a clear response deadline. His strategy allowed them to act promptly and gave the sellers a reason to consider their offer without unnecessary delay.

“Don really helped us move on a property that was the perfect fit for us,” Teresa said.

A knowledgeable agent cannot control the market, but experienced guidance can help buyers understand their options, respond appropriately, and make confident decisions when the right opportunity appears.

Advice Centered on the Clients’ Best Interests

Throughout their interview, Mark and Teresa repeatedly returned to the trust they developed in Don.

They described him as personable, ethical, attentive, and easy to be around. Most importantly, they believed his advice was driven by their goals—not simply by the desire to complete a sale.

“I got the feeling that his ambition was more in our best interest rather than just getting the sale done,” Mark said.

That statement captures how Don and Cyndi approach their work as Oakwood Realtors. A home purchase or sale can have lasting financial and personal consequences. Clients deserve honest advice from agents who understand their priorities and remain personally involved throughout the process.

“You don’t find that in just any real estate agent who hasn’t had years and years of exposure and a lot of reps doing this,” Mark added.

What This Story Means for Oakwood Homeowners

Although Mark and Teresa tell their story from a buyer’s perspective, their experience also provides a valuable lesson for Oakwood homeowners considering a sale.

Relocating buyers often begin evaluating homes online, long before they arrive in Ohio. The quality of a property’s photography, video, floor plans, and description can influence whether a buyer requests a showing, schedules a trip, or removes the home from consideration.

An experienced Oakwood listing agent should market more than the rooms inside the house. The presentation should help prospective buyers understand the home’s architecture, improvements, setting, and connection to the surrounding community.

Proximity to downtown Dayton, Miami Valley Hospital, Kettering Health Main Campus, the University of Dayton, and the city’s arts venues may all help a relocating buyer appreciate the advantages of an Oakwood location.

Don and Cyndi provide professional photography, video, floor plans, property brochures, online exposure, and strategic promotion for their listings. Their experience marketing distinctive luxury homes also helps them present a property’s craftsmanship, character, and lifestyle to the right audience.

The goal is to help buyers see what makes the home special—even if their first visit takes place through a screen.

Oakwood Realtors Don and Cyndi Shurts

Don and Cyndi Shurts have been helping people buy and sell homes throughout Oakwood and the Miami Valley since 2004. Earlier in 2026, they were recognized by Renowned (formerly RateMyAgent) as the top real estate team in Ohio!

As Keller Williams agents, they combine the reach and resources of a national real estate company with direct, personal service. Clients communicate with Don and Cyndi throughout the process rather than being handed off after the initial meeting.

Their Oakwood real estate services include:

* Guidance for buyers exploring Oakwood neighborhoods

* Remote property tours for out-of-state clients

* Market analysis and pricing insight

* Offer preparation and negotiation

* Coordination of simultaneous home sales and purchases

* Professional marketing for Oakwood homes

* Representation for distinctive and luxury properties

* Personal assistance from the first conversation through closing

Mark and Teresa summarized their experience this way:

“Don was tireless in being able to find a great home for us, and we very much appreciate him. We would highly recommend him to any of our friends.”

Are You Considering a Move to Oakwood?

If you are moving to Dayton, Ohio, Oakwood may offer the combination of neighborhood character, architectural variety, and central location you are hoping to find.

Don and Cyndi can introduce you to Oakwood, help you understand the local housing market, and provide the information you need to make a confident decision.

If you currently own an Oakwood home and are considering selling, they can help you evaluate its market position, prepare it for buyers, and create a marketing plan designed to reach both local and relocating purchasers.

Whether you are buying your first Oakwood home, selling a longtime residence or relocating from another state, Don and Cyndi would be honored to help you move forward.

27 Fall Festivals Near Dayton, Ohio, to Enjoy in 2026

Fall festival season has arrived in the Dayton, Ohio, area!

As summer gives way to cooler temperatures and colorful leaves, communities throughout the Miami Valley come alive with festivals celebrating food, music, art, history and local traditions.

From the Beavercreek Popcorn Festival and Yellow Springs Porchfest to the Ohio Sauerkraut Festival and Fairborn Halloween Festival, there is something happening nearly every weekend in September and October.

These events offer more than an enjoyable day out. They showcase the individual character of the cities, villages and neighborhoods that make the Miami Valley such an appealing place to live. If you recently moved to the area, are relocating to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base or are considering purchasing a home in Greater Dayton, attending a local festival is a great way to experience a community firsthand.

Here are 27 of our favorite fall festivals near Dayton, Ohio, for 2026.

*Festival dates, hours and activities may change. Check the event organizer’s website or social media page before traveling.*

September 2026 Festivals Near Dayton

1. AlterFest in Kettering

September 4–6, 2026

Archbishop Alter High School, Kettering

Labor Day weekend begins with AlterFest, a longstanding Kettering tradition featuring carnival rides, games, food, entertainment and activities for all ages.

Kettering is one of the largest suburban communities in Montgomery County. It is known for its established neighborhoods, mature trees, parks, recreation programs and convenient access to downtown Dayton, I-675 and many of the area’s major employers.

People exploring homes for sale in Kettering, Ohio, will find everything from charming mid-century homes and traditional subdivisions to condominiums and larger custom homes.

2. Ohio Renaissance Festival Near Waynesville

Weekends and Labor Day, September 5–November 1, 2026

10542 East State Route 73, Waynesville, OH

Step back in time as a 30-acre permanent village comes alive with costumed performers, jousting, music, food, demonstrations, games, and themed weekends.  This festival was recently recognized as the best Renaissance Festival in the country!

The Ohio Renaissance Festival is one of the region’s most distinctive seasonal attractions. The 2026 season runs weekends and Labor Day from September 5 through November 1.

Nearby Waynesville is frequently called the “Antiques Capital of the Midwest.” Its historic downtown features antique shops, locally owned businesses, and restaurants surrounded by the scenic countryside of Warren County.

Those considering Waynesville, Ohio, real estate will find historic houses, newer neighborhoods, rural homes and properties with acreage.

3. CedarFest in Cedarville

September 5–7, 2026

Cedarville, OH

CedarFest fills Labor Day weekend with community activities, entertainment, food and longtime local traditions. Events are held at locations throughout the village, culminating in Monday’s CedarFest parade.

Cedarville offers a welcoming small-town atmosphere in eastern Greene County. Cedarville University is an important part of the community, and the village is surrounded by farmland and beautiful rural scenery.

Buyers searching for homes for sale in Cedarville, Ohio, may find traditional village homes, building lots, rural residences and properties with additional acreage. Cedarville also provides convenient access to Xenia, Springfield and the surrounding Greene County communities.

4. Italian Fall Festa in Kettering

September 11–13, 2026

Bella Villa Hall, 2625 County Line Road, Kettering, OH

Celebrate Italian heritage with a weekend of homemade food, Italian music, bocce and family activities.

Presented by the John Pirelli Lodge of the Order Sons and Daughters of Italy in America, the Italian Fall Festa traditionally offers favorites such as pasta, calzones, Italian beef, meatball sandwiches, pizza, cannoli and other homemade dishes.

Admission, parking and shuttle service are free. The event’s shaded grounds and community atmosphere have helped make it a favorite September tradition in the Dayton area.

5. Dayton Greek Festival

September 11–13, 2026

Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, 500 Belmonte Park North, Dayton

The Dayton Greek Festival brings the food, music, dancing and cultural traditions of Greece to the historic Grafton Hill neighborhood.

Visitors can enjoy Greek dishes and pastries, including gyros, moussaka and baklava, while learning more about Greek culture. Tours of Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church offer an opportunity to see one of the city’s beautiful religious landmarks.

Admission is $5 and is good for the entire weekend. Admission is free until 3 p.m. Friday and free throughout the weekend for children 12 and under, active-duty military members and veterans.

Grafton Hill is one of Dayton’s distinctive historic neighborhoods, offering beautiful architecture and convenient access to downtown, the Great Miami River and the Dayton Art Institute. Buyers interested in historic homes in Dayton, often appreciate the craftsmanship and character found in this part of the city.

6. Lantern Fest at Cox Arboretum

September 11, 2026

Cox Arboretum MetroPark, Dayton

Lantern Fest offers an evening experience in the beautiful natural surroundings of Cox Arboretum MetroPark.

Cox Arboretum is one of the Miami Valley’s most recognizable outdoor destinations, featuring gardens, ponds, wooded trails and the Tree Tower. Its location near the Dayton Mall places it close to Miami Township, West Carrollton, Miamisburg and Washington Township.

The surrounding area provides a wide variety of housing choices including homes in West Carrollton and Miamisburg. Buyers researching homes near Cox Arboretum can explore established neighborhoods, condominiums, newer communities and properties with quick access to I-75 and I-675.

7. Springboro Oktoberfest

September 11–12, 2026

Springboro United Church of Christ, 5 West Mill Street, Springboro

Springboro Oktoberfest celebrates the community’s German heritage with food, beverages, live entertainment and festival activities. Proceeds from the event help support charitable organizations and community causes.

Springboro sits between Dayton and Cincinnati and is known for its historic downtown, beautiful residential neighborhoods like Settlers Walk, parks and access to both I-75 and State Route 741.

The community offers a broad selection of housing, including historic residences, condominiums, traditional subdivisions and newer luxury homes. This variety continues to attract people searching to Springboro, Ohio. Click here to learn morn about Springboro.

8. Vandalia Sister Cities Oktoberfest

September 11–12, 2026

Vandalia Sports Complex

German food, music, dancing, beer, arts and crafts take center stage at the Vandalia Sister Cities Oktoberfest.

The event celebrates Vandalia’s relationship with its sister city of Lichtenfels, Germany. Festival favorites include brats, schnitzel, cabbage rolls, German potato salad, sauerkraut and pretzels.

Vandalia is located near the intersection of I-70 and I-75, making it one of the most conveniently situated communities in the Dayton region. The city offers established neighborhoods, parks and proximity to Dayton International Airport.

People moving to the northern Miami Valley may want to explore homes for sale in Vandalia, Ohio, as well as nearby Butler Township, Englewood and Tipp City.

9. Beavercreek Popcorn Festival

September 12–13, 2026

Dayton-Xenia Road, Beavercreek

Few local events are more closely associated with their community than the Beavercreek Popcorn Festival.

Held along Dayton-Xenia Road, the festival includes hundreds of vendors, live entertainment, a car show, children’s activities and popcorn prepared in more ways than most people could imagine.

Beavercreek is one of Greene County’s largest communities and is conveniently located near Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Wright State University, The Mall at Fairfield Commons and I-675.

Its housing ranges from established neighborhoods and condominiums to new construction, luxury homes and properties with acreage. These options make Beavercreek, Ohio, real estate especially popular with military households, local professionals and people relocating to the Dayton area.

10. Dayton Hispanic Heritage Festival

September 19, 2026

RiverScape MetroPark, downtown Dayton

The Dayton Hispanic Heritage Festival brings music, dancing, food, cultural exhibits and community celebration to RiverScape MetroPark.

Hosted by PACO—the Puerto Rican, American and Caribbean Organization—the free festival recognizes the diversity and traditions of Hispanic and Latino cultures. The 2026 event is scheduled from 11 a.m. until 11 p.m.

RiverScape is located along the Great Miami River in downtown Dayton. Visitors can easily explore nearby restaurants, entertainment venues, bike trails, performing arts destinations and professional sports.

Those interested in living in Downtown Dayton can find lofts, apartments, condominiums and historic neighborhoods offering an urban lifestyle close to many of the city’s leading attractions.

11. Yellow Springs Porchfest

September 19, 2026

Throughout Yellow Springs

During Yellow Springs Porchfest, porches throughout the village become stages for musicians representing a wide variety of styles.

This free, community-driven event allows visitors to walk from performance to performance while exploring local shops, restaurants and residential streets.

Yellow Springs is one of the Miami Valley’s most distinctive communities. It is known for its independent businesses, arts community, outdoor recreation and proximity to Glen Helen Nature Preserve and John Bryan State Park.

Housing in the village is often in high demand. Buyers searching for homes for sale in Yellow Springs, Ohio, will encounter historic homes, architecturally interesting residences, wooded properties and rural acreage surrounding the village.

12. Lucas Brothers Fall Festival in Bellbrook

September 25–October 25, 2026

Lucas Brothers Farms at Candlebrook Farms, 3269 Ferry Road, Bellbrook

The Lucas Brothers Fall Festival offers five weekends of seasonal fun in a country setting.

The festival is open Friday evenings and during the day on Saturdays and Sundays. Visitors can expect fall activities, food and live music on Friday nights.

The farm is located near Bellbrook and Sugarcreek Township, an area appreciated for its rolling countryside, wooded properties and access to Bellbrook, Centerville and Beavercreek.

Buyers exploring Bellbrook homes for sale or Sugarcreek Township real estate will find established neighborhoods, newer developments, luxury homes, equestrian properties and houses on larger wooded lots.

13. Dayton Art Institute Oktoberfest

September 25–27, 2026

Dayton Art Institute

Established in 1971, Oktoberfest at the Dayton Art Institute is southwestern Ohio’s longest-running Oktoberfest celebration and the museum’s largest annual fundraiser.

The weekend features live music, food, family activities, a Weingarten, more than 50 craft and international beers, and a curated marketplace of artists and artisans.

The museum overlooks downtown Dayton from its prominent location near Grafton Hill. Oktoberfest offers visitors an excellent reason to explore Dayton’s riverfront, restaurants, cultural institutions and historic neighborhoods.

The city’s combination of arts, recreation, employment opportunities and comparatively attainable housing continues to generate interest in Dayton, Ohio, homes for sale.

14. Country Applefest in Lebanon

September 26–27, 2026

Warren County Fairgrounds, Lebanon

Country Applefest brings more than 300 craft and food vendors to the Warren County Fairgrounds. Apple treats, handcrafted merchandise and live entertainment make it a popular destination for an early fall weekend.

Lebanon is the county seat of Warren County and is known for its historic downtown, locally owned businesses and the Golden Lamb, one of Ohio’s best-known historic inns.

People searching for Warren County homes for sale, can choose from historic residences, established neighborhoods, newer developments and rural properties outside the city.

15. Tipp City Mum Festival

September 26–27, 2026

Downtown Tipp City and City Park

The Tipp City Mum Festival is a full weekend celebrating community pride, local businesses and the arrival of fall.

Events traditionally include the Mum Festival parade, entertainment, crafts, food, children’s activities, a car show and the Run for the Mums. Festival activities extend from Tipp City’s historic downtown to City Park.

Tipp City is located along I-75 north of Dayton and offers a walkable downtown, distinctive older homes, growing residential areas and convenient access to Troy, Vandalia and Dayton International Airport.

These qualities make Tipp City, Ohio, real estate worth considering for buyers moving to northern Montgomery or Miami County.

16. Germantown Pretzel Festival

September 26–27, 2026

Veterans Memorial Park in downtown Germantown

Established in 1980, the Germantown Pretzel Festival has become one of southwestern Montgomery County’s favorite community traditions.

Festival visitors can enjoy pretzels, additional food vendors, arts and crafts, live entertainment and activities for children. Admission is free.

Germantown was settled by German-speaking families in 1804, and its historic downtown remains an important part of the community’s identity. Residents also enjoy access to the Twin Creek trail and the wooded trails and natural areas of Germantown MetroPark.

People researching Germantown, Ohio, real estate will find historic houses, traditional neighborhoods, rural homes and properties with acreage.

17. Windmill Farm Market Spooktacular Fall Festival

Weekends, September 26–October 31, 2026

Windmill Farm Market, 11871 North Hamilton-Lebanon Road, Springboro

The Spooktacular Fall Festival provides several weekends of seasonal fun at Windmill Farm Market.  When our kids were young we would take them to this festival every year for a hayride and pumpkins!

Its location east of Springboro places it near Clearcreek Township and the rural areas between Springboro, Waynesville and Lebanon. This part of Warren County is known for a blend of residential neighborhoods, farmland and country properties.

Buyers who want additional space while remaining within commuting distance of Dayton and Cincinnati frequently explore Clearcreek Township homes for sale and properties in the Springboro area.

October 2026 Festivals Near Dayton

18. Heritage of Flight Festival in New Carlisle

October 2–4, 2026

Downtown New Carlisle

New Carlisle celebrates the Dayton region’s aviation heritage with a three-day festival in its downtown business district.

The event begins Friday with a large classic cruise-in. Weekend activities include carnival rides, food, live entertainment, vendors, the Parade of Planes and Saturday night fireworks.

New Carlisle is located northeast of Dayton and west of Springfield. The community provides a small-town setting with access to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Springfield and communities throughout western Clark County.

Those considering a move to the area can explore homes for sale in New Carlisle, Ohio, as well as nearby Bethel Township and Park Layne.

19. Centerville Fall Fest

October 3, 2026

Stubbs Park, Centerville

Centerville Fall Fest returns to Stubbs Park with free seasonal activities, vendors, food trucks and live entertainment.

The 2026 festival is scheduled from noon until 8 p.m. Activities include an expanded children’s area, carnival games, inflatables, a corn pit, petting zoo, crafts and thousands of free pumpkins while supplies last. Live music continues into the evening at the Stubbs Park Amphitheater.

Centerville is known for its historic downtown, Washington Township neighborhoods, parks, restaurants and convenient access to I-675.

Housing choices range from historic homes near downtown to condominiums, established subdivisions and luxury properties. Buyers frequently search for both Centerville homes for sale and Washington Township real estate when considering this part of southern Montgomery County.

20. Spring Valley Potato Festival

October 3–4, 2026

Spring Valley Walton Park

The Spring Valley Potato Festival celebrates its agricultural roots with two days of food, vendors, entertainment and community activities.

Spring Valley is a small Greene County village surrounded by farmland, equestrian properties and scenic countryside. It is located near the Little Miami Scenic Trail and provides convenient access to Xenia, Bellbrook, Waynesville and southern Greene County.

Those looking for Spring Valley, Ohio, homes for sale may discover village residences, country homes, hobby farms and equestrian properties near Dayton.

21. Lebanon Oktoberfest

October 9–10, 2026

Downtown Lebanon

Lebanon brings German-inspired food, music and fall celebration to its historic downtown during the annual Lebanon Oktoberfest.

Festivalgoers can combine the event with a visit to downtown shops, restaurants and notable historic destinations. Lebanon’s location between Dayton and Cincinnati gives residents access to the employment, entertainment and amenities of both metropolitan areas.

The surrounding area offers traditional neighborhoods, new construction, luxury communities, country homes and acreage, creating a broad selection of Lebanon, Ohio, homes for sale.

22. Enon Apple Butter Festival

October 10–11, 2026

Downtown Enon

The Enon Apple Butter Festival celebrates its 46th year in 2026. The event is organized by the Enon Community Historical Society and is often described as the community’s hometown reunion.

Enon is located east of Dayton near Fairborn, Springfield and Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. The village offers a small-town atmosphere with convenient routes to employment centers in both Clark and Greene counties.  This little town is a hidden gem of affordable homes near Wright Patterson AFB.

Homebuyers interested in this portion of the Miami Valley can explore homes for sale in Enon, Ohio, as well as nearby Greenon, Mad River Township and western Clark County.

23. Ohio Sauerkraut Festival in Waynesville

October 10–11, 2026

Downtown Waynesville

Downtown Waynesville welcomes visitors for one of Ohio’s largest and best-known fall festivals.

The Ohio Sauerkraut Festival features hundreds of artisans and an impressive variety of foods, including traditional sauerkraut dishes and several surprisingly creative variations. Admission is free.

The festival provides an opportunity to explore Waynesville’s historic downtown and local shops. Outside the village, the surrounding countryside includes farms, wooded properties and homes with acreage.

Those who enjoy small-town living and outdoor space may want to investigate Waynesville homes for sale.

24. Vandalia Fall Festival

October 10, 2026

Vandalia Recreation Center

The Vandalia Fall Festival offers an afternoon of seasonal activities, local vendors, food and live music.

Scheduled activities include a pumpkin patch, corn pit, inflatables, games, crafts and food trucks. It gives residents another opportunity to gather after the city’s September Oktoberfest.

Vandalia’s access to I-70, I-75, Dayton International Airport and northern Montgomery County employment centers makes it a practical location for people who travel throughout the region.

25. Bradford Pumpkin Show

October 13–17, 2026

Downtown Bradford

The Bradford Pumpkin Show offers five days of parades, rides, displays, entertainment, contests and community traditions.

Bradford is a small village located northwest of Dayton near the Miami and Darke County line. Its location provides a rural, small-town setting with access to Troy, Piqua and Greenville.

Buyers looking beyond the immediate Dayton suburbs may find more space and a relaxed pace among homes for sale in Bradford, Ohio, and rural properties throughout western Miami County.

26. Fairborn Halloween Festival

October 16–18, 2026

Downtown Fairborn

Downtown Fairborn embraces Halloween with three days of costumes, entertainment, food, vendors and seasonal activities. The festival traditionally includes the Spooktacular Parade, a costume contest, live music, a beer garden and trick-or-treating at vendor booths.

Fairborn is located beside Wright-Patterson Air Force Base and Wright State University, making it an important destination for military households and people relocating for work or education.

The city offers established neighborhoods, condominiums, investment properties and newer residential communities. Our experience with Fairborn, Ohio, real estate and Wright-Patterson Air Force Base relocation allows us to help buyers compare Fairborn with Beavercreek, Huber Heights, Xenia and other nearby communities.

27. Chocolate Festival in Xenia

October 17, 2026

Greene County Expo Center, Xenia

The Chocolate Festival may be the sweetest way to conclude the fall festival season. Held at the Greene County Expo Center, the free event features chocolate treats, vendors and live entertainment. Free parking is also available.

Xenia is the county seat of Greene County and is known as a hub of the regional paved-trail network. Its central location provides access to Beavercreek, Yellow Springs, Cedarville, Bellbrook and communities throughout the county.

Buyers searching for **homes for sale in Xenia, Ohio**, can find historic residences, established neighborhoods, new construction, rural homes and properties with acreage.

Fall Is a Wonderful Time to Explore the Miami Valley

A community’s personality is not found only in its houses, streets or buildings. It can also be found in its traditions, local businesses, volunteers and the events that bring people together.

That is what makes fall festival season such a wonderful time to explore Greater Dayton. You can experience the energy of downtown Dayton, the historic charm of Lebanon and Waynesville, the creativity of Yellow Springs, the country atmosphere of Spring Valley and Germantown, and the strong community traditions of Beavercreek, Fairborn, Centerville, Kettering and many other Miami Valley communities.

If you are considering buying or selling a home in the Dayton area, Don and Cyndi Shurts of Miami Valley Dream Homes would be honored to help.

We have been helping people buy and sell homes throughout Greater Dayton since 2004. Whether you are moving across town, relocating to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, searching for a home with acreage or preparing to sell a longtime family home, we provide experienced local guidance from your first conversation through closing.

Explore Dayton-area homes for sale, learn more about living in the Miami Valley, or contact Don and Cyndi Shurts to begin planning your next move.

Free Therapeutic Horse Program for Veterans in Spring Valley, Ohio

Veterans throughout the Dayton and Greene County area are invited to participate in a free therapeutic horse program beginning October 3 at The Therapeutic Riding Institute in Spring Valley, Ohio.

This welcoming six-session journey gives veterans an opportunity to experience meaningful interaction with horses in a peaceful, supportive environment. Participants will take part in grooming, leading and therapeutic activities designed to encourage connection, confidence and personal well-being.

No previous horse experience is necessary. The program is open to all veterans, including those who have recently relocated to the Dayton area or are connected to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base.

Therapeutic Horse Program Details

The program will meet every other Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., beginning October 3.

Location: The Therapeutic Riding Institute

Address: 3960 Middle Run Road, Spring Valley, OH 45370

Cost: Free

Registration deadline: September 15

Contact: Greta at gretabythecreek@gmail.com

Advance registration is required, and the names of all participants must be submitted by September 15.

Experiencing a Meaningful Connection With Horses

Horses have a remarkable ability to respond to people in an honest and nonjudgmental way. Spending time with them can provide a calming break from daily pressures while creating opportunities to develop trust, communication and confidence.

During the program, veterans will interact directly with the horses through guided activities. Because the program welcomes beginners, participants do not need riding skills or previous experience caring for horses.

Spring Valley and Greene County’s Equestrian Community

Spring Valley is surrounded by the rolling countryside and open spaces that make Greene County one of the Miami Valley’s most appealing areas for horse enthusiasts. The village is conveniently located near Xenia, Bellbrook, Sugarcreek Township, Waynesville and communities throughout the Greater Dayton area.

The surrounding countryside includes working farms, riding facilities and a variety of Dayton area horse properties. Buyers interested in an equestrian lifestyle can find everything from homes with acreage in Greene County to established Dayton-area horse properties with barns, fenced pastures, riding arenas and additional outbuildings.

Spring Valley’s location also makes it attractive to military families searching for equestrian properties near Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. Residents can enjoy a peaceful rural lifestyle while remaining within reach of WPAFB, Beavercreek, Xenia and the Dayton metropolitan area.

Supporting Veterans in the Dayton Area

The Miami Valley is home to a strong military community that includes active-duty service members, veterans, civilian employees and military families associated with Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. Programs like this create valuable opportunities for veterans to connect with others while discovering a meaningful activity close to home.

As local Realtors and longtime horse owners ourselves, Cyndi and I appreciate the unique connection people can develop with horses. We also understand the importance of community programs that make equestrian experiences accessible to veterans and others throughout the Dayton region.

Register by September 15!

Veterans interested in participating—or family members who know someone who may benefit—are encouraged to share this information and register as soon as possible.

Moving to Dayton Ohio: Why It Ranks #3 for Starting a Career

Dayton, Ohio has earned another national recognition — and this one says a lot about why so many people are choosing to build their careers, buy homes and put down roots in the Miami Valley.

According to a 2026 analysis by Monster, Dayton ranks as the #3 best metro area in the United States to start a career, trailing only Harrisburg, Pennsylvania and Akron, Ohio.

That puts Dayton ahead of well-known employment markets including Madison, Cleveland, Columbus, Pittsburgh, Kansas City and Nashville.

For those of us who have lived and worked in the Dayton area for years, the recognition probably isn't all that surprising. Dayton offers something increasingly difficult to find: a combination of career opportunities and a relatively affordable cost of living.

Why Did Dayton Rank So High?

Monster's 2026 Build-a-Career rankings compared 100 U.S. metropolitan areas, looking at two important factors:

• Career opportunities
• Rental affordability

Dayton earned an overall Build-a-Career Score of 84.7 out of 100, including a Career Opportunity Score of 78.3 and an impressive Rental Affordability Score of 91.1.

That combination helped Dayton secure the #3 position nationally.

That's important because earning a good salary is only part of someone's financial picture. What matters is how far that income goes once you pay for housing and other everyday expenses.

In many larger metropolitan areas, workers may earn more but spend considerably more to keep a roof over their heads. Dayton offers a different equation: the opportunity to pursue a career while living in an area where housing can still be more attainable.

Dayton Is More Than Just an Affordable Place to Live

Affordability certainly helps, but there is much more to the Dayton region.

The Miami Valley has a diverse employment base that includes Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, healthcare, defense, aerospace, research, technology, education, manufacturing and logistics.

Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in particular has an enormous impact on the region and brings military personnel, civilian employees, contractors, engineers, researchers and other professionals to the Dayton area.

The region is also home to major healthcare systems, universities and colleges, and employers ranging from small local businesses to large national and international companies.

For someone early in their career, that diversity can be a significant advantage. Your first job doesn't necessarily have to be your last opportunity in Dayton.

Housing Is Part of Dayton's Advantage

As Dayton Realtors, this is where we see another important side of Dayton's story.

People don't simply choose where to work. They choose where they can build a life.

Throughout the Dayton area, buyers can choose from everything from downtown apartments and historic neighborhoods to established suburban communities, new construction, condominiums, acreage properties and small-town living.

Communities such as Beavercreek, Centerville, Bellbrook, Fairborn, Kettering, Springboro, Oakwood, Xenia, Huber Heights, Vandalia, Tipp City and Waynesville each offer a different lifestyle while keeping residents connected to the larger Dayton employment market.

For people relocating from higher-cost parts of the country, one of the biggest surprises can be what their housing budget may buy in the Miami Valley.

And for young professionals who are currently renting, Dayton's relative affordability can make the possibility of transitioning from renting to homeownership worth exploring sooner than they might expect.

You Can Build a Career Without Giving Up Quality of Life

One of Dayton's strengths is that you don't necessarily have to choose between career opportunities and having a life outside of work.

The Miami Valley offers an outstanding network of parks and recreation, including the Five Rivers MetroParks system, miles of paved trails, rivers, golf courses and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.

There's also the Dayton Dragons, Dayton Art Institute, National Museum of the United States Air Force, performing arts, restaurants, breweries, festivals and community events throughout the region.

And when you want a bigger-city experience, both Columbus and Cincinnati are within a reasonable drive.

That's part of what makes the Dayton area attractive. You can enjoy many of the benefits of a larger metropolitan area without necessarily dealing with the housing costs and congestion associated with some of America's largest cities.

Ohio Had an Impressive Showing, Too

Dayton wasn't the only Ohio community receiving attention in Monster's rankings.

In fact, five Ohio metropolitan areas ranked among the Top 10 places in America to start a career:

#2 Akron

#3 Dayton

#5 Cleveland

#6 Toledo

#7 Columbus

No other state had as many metropolitan areas in the Top 10.

That says something important about Ohio's combination of employment opportunities and affordability — and Dayton stands near the very top of the list.

Considering Moving to Dayton, Ohio?

National rankings are nice, but choosing where to live is ultimately a very personal decision.

Your job location, commute, budget, preferred community, housing style and long-term plans all matter.

We've helped buyers and sellers throughout the Dayton and Miami Valley area since 2004, including many families and professionals relocating to the region and military families moving to and from Wright-Patterson Air Force Base.

One of the things we enjoy most is helping newcomers understand the differences between Dayton-area communities. Beavercreek isn't Centerville. Bellbrook isn't Springboro. Fairborn isn't Troy. Each community has its own personality, housing options and advantages.

If you're considering relocating to the Dayton area for a new job, military assignment or simply a better quality of life, we'd be happy to help you get acquainted with the Miami Valley.

Don & Cyndi Shurts

Keller Williams Community Partners Realty

Miami Valley Dream Homes

Helping people buy and sell homes throughout Dayton and the Miami Valley since 2004.

Source

The ranking referenced in this article comes from Monster's 2026 Build-a-Career Score, which evaluated 100 U.S. metropolitan areas based on career opportunity and rental affordability.

Happy 4th of July from Don & Cyndi Shurts! 🇺🇸

Every family wants a place to belong — a home where life can be lived, celebrated, and shared.

That’s why we’re so thankful this Independence Day to help families across Dayton, Beavercreek, Centerville, Bellbrook, Fairborn, and the Miami Valley find the place they can call home.

As we celebrate America’s 250th birthday, we’re reminded that home, freedom, and community matter deeply. If you’re preparing to buy a home, sell your house, or relocate in Southwest Ohio, you don’t have to navigate the process alone. We would be honored to be your guide.

Wishing you and your family a safe, joyful, and blessed 4th of July.

Don & Cyndi Shurts
Miami Valley Dream Homes
Keller Williams Community Partners

Fully Furnished Shawnee Lake Waterfront Home in Jamestown, Ohio: Turn-Key Lake Living Near Dayton, Columbus & Cincinnati

There is something special about life on the water. The quiet mornings. The wide-open views. The sound of the lake. The laughter of family and friends gathering by the pool. The evening boat ride after dinner. The sunset reflecting across the water as the day comes to a peaceful close.

For buyers searching for an Ohio lake house, a waterfront home near Dayton, or a weekend getaway within reach of Columbus and Cincinnati, this Shawnee Lake property in Jamestown, Ohio offers a rare opportunity: a beautifully updated lakefront home being sold fully furnished, including the pontoon boat, motor and trailer, private dock, covered boat shelter, inground swimming pool, outdoor jacuzzi, canoe, two kayaks, pool and dock furniture, grill, TVs, mower, yard tools, washer and dryer, kitchen appliances, dishes, silverware, bakeware, and more.

In other words, this is not simply a house by the lake. This is a turn-key lake lifestyle ready to enjoy from day one.

A Rare Fully Furnished Lake House Opportunity on Shawnee Lake

Many buyers dream of owning a lake house in Ohio, but finding one that is beautifully updated, move-in ready, fully furnished, and already equipped with the boat, dock, pool, and outdoor living amenities is not easy. That is what makes this Shawnee Lake waterfront home such a standout opportunity.

The next owner can bring their clothes and begin enjoying lake life immediately. There is no need to spend months furnishing the home, purchasing outdoor furniture, searching for a boat, buying lake toys, setting up the dock, or trying to piece together the lifestyle after closing. So much of what makes lake living enjoyable is already here.

The pontoon boat, motor, and trailer are included. The canoe and two kayaks are included. The dock and pool furniture are included. The grill, televisions, kitchenware, appliances, mower, and yard tools are included. For buyers looking for a summer lake house, weekend retreat, or full-time waterfront home, that kind of convenience is a major advantage.

Love Living on the Water’s Edge

The heart of this property is the experience of living on the water’s edge. Wake up to breathtaking views of Shawnee Lake. Enjoy coffee while the water is calm. Spend the afternoon by the inground pool. Host a BBQ with friends and family. Watch kids and grandkids play, swim, kayak, fish, and make memories. Then end the day with a boat ride from your own private dock as the sun sets over the lake.

The outdoor setting is designed for enjoyment. The inground pool and patio create a resort-like feel right at home. The private water’s-edge dock gives you direct lake access for boating, fishing, kayaking, and relaxing by the water. The covered boat shelter adds convenience and protection for lake equipment and boating enjoyment. The outdoor jacuzzi offers a quiet place to unwind after a day on the water. The screened porch adds another comfortable space to relax, dine, and take in the view.

Whether you are planning a peaceful weekend getaway, a full summer at the lake, or a year-round home where every day feels like a vacation, this property offers the setting and amenities to make it happen.

A Beautifully Updated 4-Bedroom, 3-Bath Waterfront Home

While the lake lifestyle is a major part of the appeal, the home itself is equally impressive. This Shawnee Lake home offers 4 bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms, and a 3-car garage, giving buyers the space and flexibility they want for full-time living, guests, children, grandchildren, entertaining, or extended weekends with family and friends.

Inside, the home feels warm, welcoming, and thoughtfully cared for. The inviting living spaces feature vaulted ceilings, generous natural light, beautiful lake views, and a stunning stone fireplace wall that creates a strong focal point. The layout offers comfortable gathering areas for relaxing after a day on the water, watching a movie, playing games, entertaining guests, or simply enjoying quiet evenings at home.

The updated kitchen is both attractive and functional, featuring granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, beautiful cabinetry, a breakfast bar, and excellent workspace for cooking and entertaining. For a lake house, the kitchen is especially important. It is where people gather before heading outside, where weekend breakfasts begin, where snacks are prepared for the boat, and where friends and family reconnect after a full day by the water.

The bedrooms provide comfortable private spaces for owners and guests. The added fourth bedroom and added bathroom improve the home’s livability and make it easier to host family and friends. Updated baths, bedroom flooring, kitchen improvements, and other interior updates add to the move-in-ready feel of the home.

The 3-car garage is another important feature, especially for a lake property. It provides valuable space for vehicles, lake gear, tools, lawn equipment, recreational items, and additional storage. Garage insulation has also been completed, adding to the overall usability of the space.

Extensive Updates Since 2019

The sellers purchased the property in 2019 and have continued improving the home and property since that time. Updates include the inground pool and patio, porch roof and screening, updated kitchen, dock updates, patio pavers and wall, added fourth bedroom, added bathroom, updated baths, bedroom flooring, exterior paint, garage insulation, and more.

These improvements matter because buyers are not just purchasing a great location. They are purchasing a property that has been carefully improved, thoughtfully maintained, and prepared for the next owner to enjoy. A waterfront setting is valuable, but a waterfront setting combined with a beautifully updated home, strong outdoor amenities, and turn-key furnishings is much harder to find.

Perfect as a Full-Time Home, Summer Lake House, or Weekend Getaway

One of the best parts of this Shawnee Lake home is its flexibility. It could be an incredible full-time residence for someone who wants to enjoy lake views every day. It could be a summer lake house where family and friends gather throughout the warm-weather months. It could also be a weekend getaway for buyers who want a peaceful retreat without traveling far from home.

The location makes that especially appealing. Shawnee Lake in Jamestown, Ohio, is about 30 minutes from Dayton and roughly an hour from Columbus and Cincinnati. That means this lakefront home is close enough for spontaneous weekend escapes, summer holidays, quick overnight trips, or easy visits from family and friends across southwest and central Ohio.

For buyers searching online for “lake house near Dayton,” “Ohio lakefront home for sale,” “waterfront home near Columbus,” “lake house near Cincinnati,” or “affordable Ohio lake living,” this property deserves serious attention.

Entertaining, Relaxing, and Making Memories

Some homes are simply places to live. Others become gathering places. This Shawnee Lake home has the kind of setting where people will want to come together.

Imagine hosting summer BBQs by the pool, long weekends with kids and grandkids, evenings around the water, boat rides after dinner, kayaking from the dock, swimming on warm afternoons, and watching the sunset with family and friends. The fully furnished setup makes it easy to say yes to those moments right away.

That is what makes this home different. It is not only beautiful and updated. It is already equipped for the lifestyle people imagine when they dream about owning a lake house.

Why This Shawnee Lake Property Stands Out

Finding a waterfront home in Ohio is exciting. Finding one with 4 bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms, a 3-car garage, an inground pool, a private dock, a covered boat shelter, an outdoor jacuzzi, lake toys, furnishings, appliances, kitchenware, outdoor furniture, and a pontoon boat included is rare.

Finding a lake house of this caliber in Ohio at this price point is even harder.

This is a property where the value goes beyond square footage and bedroom count. The value is in the setting, the views, the improvements, the included furnishings, the boat, the dock, the pool, the location, and the opportunity to begin enjoying the lake lifestyle immediately.

Schedule a Private Showing

If you have been searching for a fully furnished lake house in Ohio, a Shawnee Lake waterfront home, a weekend getaway near Dayton, or a turn-key lakefront retreat with a pontoon boat included, this property may be exactly what you have been hoping to find.

Come experience the water views, the sunsets, the pool, the dock, the boat shelter, and the lifestyle for yourself.

To schedule a private showing or learn more about this Shawnee Lake waterfront home in Jamestown, Ohio, contact:

Don & Cyndi Shurts

Keller Williams Community Partners Realty

Miami Valley Dream Homes

MiamiValleyDreamHomes.com

Don: 937-241-2124

Cyndi: 937-604-5194

Dayton Area Housing Market Update: Home Prices and Sales Continue to Rise in 2026

The Dayton-area real estate market continues to show impressive strength as we move through the spring selling season.

According to the latest market data from Dayton Realtors, home sales, home prices, and overall sales volume all increased compared to last year, demonstrating continued demand throughout the Miami Valley.

Dayton Area Real Estate Market Snapshot – May 2026

The latest statistics reveal:

• 1,445 residential homes and condos sold in May
• Average sales price: $310,923 (up 3.51% from May 2025)
• Median sales price: $270,000 (up 1.89% from May 2025)
• Total sales volume: $449.3 million (up 8.93% from May 2025)
• 1,887 new listings entered the market (up 6.67% from May 2025)

Year-to-date numbers also remain positive:

• Homes sold: Up 3.52%
• Total sales volume: Up 8.47%
• Average sales price: Up 4.78%

What This Means for Home Sellers

If you've been considering selling your home in Beavercreek, Centerville, Bellbrook, Springboro, Kettering, Fairborn, Xenia, or anywhere in the Dayton region, these numbers tell an encouraging story.

Buyer demand remains strong, and home values continue to appreciate. Even with more homes entering the market, inventory levels remain relatively balanced, allowing well-prepared and properly marketed homes to attract significant interest.

Many homeowners are surprised to learn how much equity they have built over the past several years. With average prices continuing to climb, today's market may provide an excellent opportunity to leverage that equity toward your next move.

The key is no longer simply putting a sign in the yard. Today's successful sellers need a clear strategy, professional marketing, high-quality photography, compelling video, and expert negotiation to maximize their results.

What This Means for Home Buyers

For buyers, the increase in new listings is welcome news.

More inventory means more choices and a greater opportunity to find the right home. While prices continue to rise, the pace of appreciation has become more manageable compared to the rapid increases experienced several years ago.

The biggest challenge many buyers face today is not necessarily finding a home—it is knowing how to compete effectively when the right property comes along.

Preparation matters. Buyers who have financing in place, understand current market conditions, and work with an experienced local agent often gain a significant advantage when competing for desirable homes.

The Dayton Market Remains One of Ohio's Best Values

One reason the Dayton region continues to attract buyers is affordability.

With a median sales price of $270,000, the Dayton area remains significantly more affordable than many major metropolitan markets while still offering excellent schools, strong employment opportunities, proximity to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, and an exceptional quality of life.

Communities such as Beavercreek, Bellbrook, Centerville, Springboro, Washington Township, Fairborn, Xenia, and Tipp City continue to attract both local buyers and families relocating from across the country.

Thinking About Making a Move?

Whether you're considering selling your current home, purchasing your next property, downsizing, relocating, or simply exploring your options, understanding your local market is the first step.

Real estate decisions are too important to make based solely on national headlines. Every neighborhood, community, and price range behaves differently.

That's why we take the time to help our clients understand what is happening in their specific market so they can make confident decisions based on facts rather than assumptions.

For more than 22 years, Don and Cyndi Shurts have helped over 670 families buy and sell homes throughout the Miami Valley. Our team combines local expertise, proven marketing strategies, and personalized service to guide clients from their first conversation through closing day.

If you'd like a complimentary home value analysis or want to discuss your buying or selling plans, we'd love to help.

Don & Cyndi Shurts

Miami Valley Dream Homes

Keller Williams Community Partners Realty

• 670+ families served
• $150+ million in homes sold
• 242+ Five-Star Google Reviews
• RateMyAgent 2026 Ohio Team of the Year
• Top 5 Team in the Midwest

Contact us today to start planning your next move with confidence.

What the Latest Jobs Report Means for the Dayton and Cincinnati Housing Markets

National Association of Realtors Chief Economist Lawrence Yun recently offered an encouraging perspective on the economy following the latest jobs report. His message was clear: the national economy is not in a recession, and while job growth has slowed from previous years, wages are still rising, unemployment remains low, and income growth is outpacing home price growth in many areas.

That matters for home buyers and sellers here in Southwest Ohio.

Across the country, buyers have been watching interest rates, inflation, job security, and home prices very carefully. When people feel uncertain about the economy, they often pause major decisions like buying or selling a home. But Yun’s comments point to something important: the overall job market is still holding together, and household income growth continues to support housing demand.

Here in the Dayton and Cincinnati regions, the local economy has several strengths that continue to help stabilize the housing market. Dayton benefits from Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, which remains the largest single-site employer in Ohio with more than 30,000 Airmen, civilian, and contractor employees. The broader Dayton region’s military and federal installations also represent a major economic engine, generating billions in total economic activity.

The Cincinnati market also continues to show strength. Recent Greater Cincinnati housing data reported a March 2026 median sold price of $317,000, up 9.7% compared with March 2025, with the year-to-date median price up 7.0%. That points to continued buyer demand, even as the market becomes more balanced than the extremely competitive pandemic-era market.

Dayton’s labor market remains steady as well. Federal Reserve data shows the Dayton-Kettering-Beavercreek metro unemployment rate at 4.6% in February 2026, while Ohio’s statewide unemployment rate fell to 4.1% in March 2026. Ohio also added 12,500 nonfarm jobs from February to March, according to the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services.

For local home buyers, this means opportunity still exists, especially when compared to higher-priced markets around the country. Southwest Ohio remains more affordable than many coastal and large metro markets, and that affordability continues to attract relocating buyers, military families, first-time buyers, and professionals moving within the Dayton-Cincinnati corridor.

For sellers, the message is also important. A stable job market supports housing demand, but today’s buyers are still price-sensitive. Homes that are presented well, priced strategically, and marketed professionally are the ones most likely to stand out. Overpricing can still cause a home to sit, even in a healthy market.

The bottom line is this: the national economy may be moving slower than it was a few years ago, but the Dayton and Cincinnati housing markets continue to benefit from steady employment, strong regional affordability, and consistent local demand.

If you are thinking about buying or selling a home in Beavercreek, Dayton, Centerville, Springboro, Cincinnati, or anywhere in Southwest Ohio, it is important to understand both the national trends and the local market conditions. Real estate is always local, and the right strategy can make a major difference.

Don & Cyndi Shurts

Keller Williams Community Partners Realty

MiamiValleyDreamHomes.com

937-241-2124 | 937-604-5194

Top Greene County Ohio, Realtors for Buyers and Sellers

Buying or selling a home is not just a transaction. It is a major life decision that affects your family, your finances, your daily routine, and the future you are working to build. In a market as diverse as Greene County, Ohio, the person guiding you through that process matters more than ever.

That is why so many people searching for Greene County, Ohio, Realtors, Greene County real estate agents, and Realtors in Greene County, Ohio, are looking for more than someone with a real estate license. They are looking for a trusted guide. They want someone with proven results, deep local knowledge, and a reputation for serving people well.

For two straight years, RateMyAgent recognized Don & Cyndi Shurts at the very top in Greene County, naming them the #1 agent in Greene County in 2025 and again in 2026. That recognition also included Top Agent in Beavercreek in 2025, and Top Agent honors in Xenia and Fairborn in 2026. For buyers and sellers trying to decide which top real estate agents in Greene County, Ohio, they can trust with one of life’s biggest decisions, that kind of consistent recognition matters. It tells a story of service, results, and client confidence built over time.

As Realtors with Keller Williams Community Partners Realty, Don & Cyndi Shurts have built their business around helping people move forward with clarity and confidence. In a world full of noise, options, opinions, and online promises, they help clients focus on what matters most and make wise decisions every step of the way.

Greene County Offers Something for Almost Every Buyer

One of the reasons Greene County is such an attractive place to call home is the variety of homes and lifestyles it offers. Almost any type of property a buyer hopes to find can be found somewhere in Greene County. Whether you are looking for ranch homes, two-story homes, luxury homes, condominiums, farms, horse properties, mini farms, homes with acreage, homes with pools, or homes with pole barns, Greene County offers a wide range of opportunities.

That variety matters because every buyer is in a different season of life. Some are purchasing their first home. Some are moving up into a larger home for a growing family. Others are downsizing into something simpler and easier to maintain. Some dream of owning land, space for animals, a barn, or a room for hobbies. Others want a neighborhood setting with convenience, sidewalks, and quick access to dining, shopping, schools, and work.

Greene County gives buyers the chance to choose the lifestyle that best suits them. That is one reason so many people begin their search here, and why working with experienced Greene County real estate agents can make such a difference.

Every Greene County Community Has Its Own Personality

A great Realtor understands that Greene County is not just one market. Each community offers something different, and buyers need guidance that goes beyond square footage and price.

Beavercreek continues to be one of the county’s most sought-after areas, with strong neighborhoods, excellent convenience, and easy access to shopping, restaurants, healthcare, and Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. Many buyers specifically looking for a Beavercreek Realtor want help understanding which neighborhoods best fit their goals, commute, and budget.

Fairborn remains especially appealing to military families, first-time buyers, and professionals who want affordability and convenience near Wright-Patterson Air Force Base and Wright State University. Buyers searching for a Fairborn Realtor are often seeking local insight to help them move quickly and confidently.

Xenia offers a wide range of housing options and continues to appeal to buyers seeking value, space, and opportunity. Whether someone is searching for a neighborhood home, acreage, or a more rural setting, having an experienced Xenia Realtor can make the process smoother and more strategic.

Bellbrook offers charm, community, and desirable residential areas. Yellow Springs is known for its unique character and lifestyle appeal. Jamestown and Spring Valley attract buyers who appreciate a quieter pace, smaller-town living, and often a little more room to spread out.

The point is simple. Greene County offers plenty of opportunities, but it takes local knowledge to help buyers and sellers navigate it effectively.

Why the Right Guide Matters

The biggest challenge for many buyers and sellers is not the lack of information. It is knowing what information to trust and who to trust to interpret it.

Buyers need more than home search alerts and online photos. They need someone who can help them understand neighborhoods, resale value, commute patterns, property condition, and the tradeoffs that come with different locations and property types. They need a Realtor who can keep them focused on their real priorities and help them avoid expensive mistakes.

Sellers need more than a sign in the yard. They need a plan. They need guidance on preparation, pricing, presentation, marketing, timing, and negotiation. Selling a ranch home in Fairborn is not the same as marketing a luxury home in Beavercreek, a mini farm near Jamestown, or a horse property with acreage elsewhere in the county. Different properties attract different buyers, and each one deserves a thoughtful strategy.

That is where Don & Cyndi Shurts stand out among Greene County, Ohio, Realtors. They do not try to force every client into the same process. They listen carefully, understand the goal, and help create a clear path forward.

A Better Commute, a Better Lifestyle

Location is another major reason buyers are drawn to Greene County homes. For many households, especially military families and professionals, one of the county’s biggest advantages is the relatively easy commute into Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. Communities like Beavercreek and Fairborn are especially popular for that reason, but several areas throughout Greene County offer a lifestyle that balances convenience with space, comfort, and local charm.

That combination is hard to beat. Buyers can enjoy access to the base, Wright State University, shopping, restaurants, and recreation while still finding a property that fits the way they truly want to live. Whether that means a neighborhood home, a condo, a property with a pool, or a mini farm with a pole barn, Greene County gives people real choices.

Recognition Matters Because Trust Matters

Awards are not everything, but they do matter when they reflect the experience real people have had while buying or selling a home.

Being recognized by RateMyAgent as the #1 agent in Greene County in both 2025 and 2026 is not just a nice headline. It is a sign that clients have consistently felt cared for, served well, and guided wisely through one of the most important decisions of their lives. The additional recognition as a Top Agent in Beavercreek in 2025 and in Xenia and Fairborn in 2026 only strengthens that message.

For someone searching online for top real estate agents in Greene County, Ohio, that recognition provides reassurance. It helps answer the question every buyer and seller is really asking: Can I trust this team to guide me well?

With Don & Cyndi Shurts of Keller Williams Community Partners Realty, the answer is built on years of service, strong local knowledge, and a reputation earned one client at a time.

The Right Team for Your Next Move

The best real estate stories are not really about houses. They are about people who need a guide and find one they can trust. They are about families stepping into a new season with confidence. They are about military relocations made smoother, downsizing decisions made clearer, and dreams of land, space, or a better lifestyle becoming reality.

That is the role Don & Cyndi Shurts seek to play for every client they serve.

So, whether you are searching for Greene County, Ohio, Realtors, Greene County real estate agents, a Beavercreek Realtor, a Fairborn Realtor, or a Xenia Realtor, the most important question is not simply who is available. The better question is: who has the experience, local understanding, and proven trust to guide you from uncertainty to confidence?

For many buyers and sellers across Beavercreek, Bellbrook, Xenia, Fairborn, Yellow Springs, Jamestown, and Spring Valley, that trusted guide has been Don & Cyndi Shurts.

Ready to Buy or Sell in Greene County, Ohio?

If you are thinking about buying or selling in Greene County, Don & Cyndi Shurts of Keller Williams Community Partners Realty would be honored to help. Whether you are searching for a ranch home, a two-story home, a condo, a luxury home, a farm, a horse property, a mini farm, acreage, a home with a pool, or a property with a pole barn, Greene County offers exceptional possibilities.

And when you are ready to move forward, having the right guide by your side can make all the difference.

Contact Don & Cyndi Shurts today through MiamiValleyDreamHomes.com and start your next chapter with confidence.