On January 28, 2025, a group of ACAR members met with the Housing Committee of the Cleveland Heights City Council. The topic of discussion was the City’s point of sale inspection policy.
The REALTORS® shared several ideas for simple amendments for the Council to consider that could potentially open up the City to more homeowners, especially those with a low – moderate income. These changes would also allow the City to ensure neighborhoods are maintained. Like ACAR, the agents noted that it is often this population who is forced to purchase their home in a city without a point of sale, due to additional upfront costs incurred when a buyer assumes violations cited in the point of sale inspection report.
Suggestions included:
- Eliminating the escrow requirement for owner occupant buyers
- Enhancements to the City’s existing exterior only inspection process.
- Increased communication/awareness to residents about existing programs to help with property maintenance.
- Consider implementing a sidewalk and apron repair program similar to other communities that would allow for greater buying power and savings to the property owners
- Consider removing the garage requirements, noting the cost for a new garage is often more than $20,000, and is not necessary.
- Consider simplifying the existing residential tax abatement program.
- Bring back REALTOR Day, homebuyer education programs, and more to encourage homeownership.
Housing Committee Chair Jim Petras thanked the group for their insight. He noted that there is no current ordinance being considered that would amend the point of sale inspection policy. Special thanks to Helen Hertz for organizing the REALTORS and continually advocating for homeownership in Cleveland Heights.
ACAR has also met with Petras on point of sale inspections, rental regulations, and housing policy in general. We look forward to continuing to be a resource for City Council as they review real estate related policies.
PICTURED: ACAR members attending the Cleveland Heights Housing Committee meeting on January 28, 2025. Pictured L to R (front): Katy Boscia, Paul Morris, Helen Hertz, Jen Davis. (Back): Reggie Evans, Jodie Frydl, Debbie Ritchie, Tom Hodgkiss-Lilly.
