The city of Columbus is located in the central region of the state of Ohio, at the crossing of the Scioto and Olentangy Rivers. Although the region was previously founded by Virginia surveyor Lucas Sullivant in 1797, Columbus didn’t begin to take shape until 1812, when Sullivant’s land was chosen by the Ohio General Assembly to be the site of the new state capital. Columbus, named after the famous explorer Christopher Columbus, prospered greatly once the National Road, or Cumberland Road, reached the city in 1831. Coupled with the railroads that were constructed in the 1850’s, the road served as a gateway to the West for many residents of the East Coast, and immigrants from Europe. Columbus began to see a significant number of Irish and German settlers, which added to the city’s diversity. By the end of the 19th century, the city of nearly 5,000 people thrived due to several manufacturing industries, such as the production of steel, and oddly, buggy making. Columbus was home to over two dozen buggy factories, most notably the Columbus Buggy Company that C.D. Firestone founded in 1875.

Today Columbus continues to thrive as the largest city in the state of Ohio, with a city population of over 730,000 and a metropolitan population of over 1,720,000. It is the business and cultural center of the Greater Columbus region, which spans over 7 counties. Columbus is home to many leading companies in the insurance, technology and retail sectors, and the city’s economy has been frequently ranked among the strongest in the nation. There is plenty of educational opportunities in Columbus—the Ohio State University has the second largest college campus in the U.S., and there is currently 18 other centers of higher education located in the city. And concerning recreation, Columbus is definitely not lacking; the city offers its residents an exciting assortment of museums and cultural attractions, art exhibits, music and theatre venues, and sporting events.

In light of its 200th anniversary that will take place in the year 2012, the city of Columbus is currently rolling out a series of initiatives that will help the city achieve its goals as the best place in the nation to live, work, and raise a family. One facet of the 2012 Project involves the beautification and revitalization of many downtown areas that will bring even more business and cultural energy into the city. Now more than ever is a great time to invest in Columbus real estate. Despite the size and increasing popularity of the city, real estate prices in Columbus have remained extremely affordable. The real estate market currently offers a variety a housing opportunities in every one of Columbus’ distinct neighborhoods. For those who love to be amidst all the action, homes in downtown Columbus provide easy access to the city’s greatest attractions, including the popular Nationwide Arena District, Short North, and Scioto River water front. New and existing condominiums and lofts in downtown Columbus range in price from the low $150,000s to well over $1 million. There are many waterfront condominium developments that offer spectacular views of the river and the city.

If an urban condominium or loft in Columbus isn’t your style, the city offers single family homes in relaxed neighborhoods that allow quiet suburban living within short distance to the downtown area and all its attractions. One desirable area for newcomers is the neighborhood of Bexley. Real estate in Bexley includes many older family homes as well as grand estates, including the Governor’s mansion. The average price for homes in Bexley is around $272,000. If you are looking for a neighborhood that has a lot of charm and a diverse community, the German Village neighborhood may be right for you. Homes in German Village are desirable due to their unique architecture and historic charm. Older homes in this area can be purchased for as low as $150,000, while there are many large mansions priced at over $1.5 million. There is also a variety of condominiums available in German Village, especially in the Brewery District.

These are just a few examples of the many neighborhoods you have to choose from when looking for homes in Columbus. From urban condominiums, starter homes, family homes, and large estates, the real estate market in Columbus, OH has something for everyone.

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