Jill Lightfoot- e Merge Real Estate

08/07/2026

Dreaming of your own private oasis with pond, walking trails, orchards, room for horses, tons of wildlife viewing, and just good old peace and quiet WITHOUT leaving Hilliard??
Full details here👇🏻

1525 Cole Road, Columbus, OH 43228 3 Bedroom. 3 Bathroom. 2,306 Square Feet. 80 Photos. MLS # 226022775.

08/07/2026

Just July Things ☀️

- Jill

08/01/2026

📍 Reduced Price 📍 This recently reduced home at 9356 Hildebrand Drive in Plain City won't last long, so, don't wait to set up a showing! Reach out here or at (614) 992-7818 for more information!

Jill Lightfoot
The Lightfoot Team
(614) 419-7703

Step into this stunning split-level masterpiece. Every inch of this home reflects thoughtful craftsmanship and high-end finishes. The main level welcomes you with an open, airy floor plan highlighted by a vaulted living room ceiling and a soaring fireplace that serves as a dramatic focal point. A...

07/31/2026

🗣️I often get asked about Property Taxes especially now when we just had a Triennial update here in 2026 in Franklin County. Here is an easier explanation of how it all works (don't shoot the messenger 🤣):

The Bottom Line
Homes values have went up on average 11% since 2023.
An 11% increase in home value does NOT equal an 11% increase in property taxes.

🥧How Property Taxes Work in Ohio (The Pie Analogy)🥧

Think of the total tax money your school district collects as a fixed pie.

When home values go up, Ohio law forbids local governments and school districts from making that pie bigger just because homes are worth more. Instead, the pie stays the exact same size—it just gets sliced up differently among homeowners.

🔪Here is how your slice is calculated:

1. Your value went up MORE than average: Your share of the tax pie will likely go up.

2. Your value went up EXACTLY average (11%): Your tax share stays roughly the same.

3. Your value went up LESS than average: Your share of the tax pie could actually go down.

Why Is It Designed This Way?

Ohio has a law (House Bill 920) designed specifically to protect homeowners from "tax inflation." It prevents local governments from getting a secret, automatic windfall every time property values jump up.

If a school district or city wants more total money, they have to put a new levy on the ballot and ask voters directly.

🔑🗝️Key Takeaway: Your tax bill isn't based on your home's raw value—it's based on how your home's value changed compared to everyone else in your school district.

07/20/2026

Two investment opportunities in high-performing Central Ohio markets are waiting for their future owner!

📍869–871 Palmer Road, Columbus
- Income-producing duplex
- Newly refinished hardwood floors and brand-new carpet throughout
- Park access right out the back door

📍 1441 Neil Avenue, Columbus
- In the heart of the University District
- New roof in 2018 and updated electric
- All current tenants are month to month

- Jill
(614) 419-7703

07/17/2026

Have you ever heard of “The Starbucks Effect?” No, it's not about how many lattes are standing between you and a down payment. 😅

Essentially, it says this: homes within a quarter mile of a Starbucks increased in value by 96% between 1997 and 2014. The national average over that same period was 60%.

But here's the part I find really interesting - it's not the coffee shop that causes the increase. Starbucks has a whole real estate team whose entire job is to identify neighborhoods already showing signs of growth. Their analysts are doing masterclass-level economic and demographic research to determine up-and-coming areas before anyone else does.

So when a Starbucks shows up, it's less of a cause and more of a confirmation. The neighborhood was already on its way up - and now you have proof. In fact, some real estate agents, builders, and investors watch out specifically for building permits from Starbucks as a sign of where to take a closer look.

That being said, Starbucks also closed 400 locations in 2025. Analysts are starting to ask the question in reverse. If a Starbucks moving in signals a neighborhood on the rise, what does a Starbucks moving out signal?

The consensus so far is that one closure probably won't move the needle. But two or more in the same area is probably worth paying attention to.

Okay, enough real estate talk. What’s your go-to order? No judgment here, mine is a grande iced vanilla sweet cream cold brew. We're all just out here making financially questionable coffee decisions together. ☕

- Jill
(614) 419-7703

07/15/2026

There’s nothing like a happy client and a successful sale:)

07/13/2026

Call me “old-fashioned," but more and more agents are using AI to automate selling homes. And while I appreciate what technology can do, there are just some things AI should never replace.

Like what happens when you call a business.

An actual person should answer the phone. Not a bot asking you to "listen to the menu options, as they may have changed, so they can direct your call." 🥴

At least, that's what I think.

Which is why I’m making this PSA: when you call (614) 419-7703, you won’t get a bot. You’ll get me. A real person, ready to pick up the phone and help.

Because in a world moving more and more towards automation and advancing technology, I believe some things should stay the same.

Like talking to an actual person when you call a business.

- Jill Lightfoot

P.S. I know some businesses use an automated line for different reasons. I understand. I’m just saying I won't! In the real estate business, some things must remain personal. 😊

07/09/2026

I have a confession to make: I’ve lived in Columbus for 27 years, and I’ve never had Ding Ho…. until now!

Trust me, I know I’m going to get some hate or pushback for saying this - but I just want to be honest. I know it’s a classic spot - it’s been on the west side since 1956, believe it or not!

But, better late than never. Let me just say: it was worth the wait.

They’re known for their egg rolls - they’re legendary! They absolutely lived up to their hype. Definitely get a plate of these when you go - it’s a must.

And their Wor Sue G*i is the definition of comfort food. Just trust me on this one! It’s delicious and packed with flavor.

I cannot believe it took me this long to try this spot since it’s been an absolute staple of this city for so long. But I can confidently say that I’ll be back… and back soon.

Also, if you’re still with me: get the crab rangoon, too. It’s heavenly.

Okay, that’s all. Go to Ding Ho - you won’t regret it!

- Jill