The national housing market is undergoing a shift. A recent CNN article reports that, for the first time since 2013, home sellers now outnumber buyers by nearly 500,000, according to Redfin. This surplus is contributing to a cooling in home prices across many parts of the country.

What’s Happening Nationally?

• Buyer demand is slowing, partly due to mortgage rates hovering near 7%.
• Sellers are adjusting prices, with Redfin predicting a slight decline in national home values by year-end.
• More inventory is available, giving buyers more leverage than they’ve had in years.
  
  

How Does This Affect Central Ohio?

While the national data is important, Central Ohio is showing some resilience:

• Median home prices are up 5.9% year-over-year
• Inventory has increased nearly 15%, offering more choices for buyers
• Local demand remains solid, keeping our market more balanced than many others
  
  

Final Thoughts

We’re keeping a close eye on these trends, and we’ll continue to share updates that matter. As always, real estate is local, and Central Ohio continues to perform differently from broader national patterns.

 If you’re curious how this market shift impacts your buying or selling plans, feel free to reach out. We’re here to help!

Affordable & Comfortable Outdoor Furniture That’s Perfect for Movie Night

There’s nothing quite like a movie night under the stars—snacks in hand, cozy blankets everywhere, and your favorite people lounging beside you. But let’s be real: it’s hard to enjoy the show if you’re uncomfortable. Luckily, creating a dreamy setup with affordable and comfortable outdoor furniture is totally possible—even on a budget.

Whether you're working with a small patio or a spacious backyard, here’s how to transform your space into the perfect outdoor movie lounge without spending a fortune.

Start With a Sectional That Can Turn Into a Giant Bed

If you really want to wow your guests—or just sink into a cloud of comfort yourself—opt for a modular outdoor sectional that can be rearranged to resemble a massive bed. These sectionals are perfect for stretching out during long movies and can accommodate multiple people comfortably.

Top Picks:

• Tuoze 5-Piece Patio Furniture Sectional – ~$230
  Compact, comfy, and customizable. This rattan-style set is perfect for small spaces and includes an ottoman that helps it double as a bed.
  [Available on Amazon]
• Best Choice Products 7-Piece Modular Patio Set – ~$500
  A bit more spacious and flexible, this sectional can be arranged however you like and is surprisingly affordable for its size.
  [Available at Walmart or Amazon]
• Walsunny Outdoor Rattan Sectional – ~$230
  Fade-resistant, easy to clean, and includes a small coffee table. It’s a top pick for both comfort and value.
  [Available on Amazon]
  
  

Other Budget-Friendly Seating Ideas

No room (or budget) for a sectional? No problem. There are plenty of cozy alternatives that bring just as much comfort to your outdoor setup.

• Outdoor floor cushions: Great for layering, easy to store, and can be styled with throws and blankets.
• Outdoor bean bags: Surprisingly luxurious and fun for both kids and adults.
• DIY pallet sofas: All you need are some pallets, outdoor cushions, and a weekend to build your own custom lounge setup.
  
  

Complete the Vibe: Outdoor Movie Night Essentials

Once you’ve nailed your seating, add a few affordable extras to bring the whole movie-night vibe to life:

• String lights or lanterns to create ambiance
• Soft throws and outdoor pillows for extra coziness
• A small table or ottoman to hold snacks and drinks
• A portable projector (many good ones are under $100)
• A DIY movie screen (a simple white sheet works!)
  
  

Final Thoughts

The right furniture can turn your yard into your favorite “room” of the house. With smart choices—like a budget-friendly outdoor sectional that doubles as a bed—you can create a space that’s ideal for lounging, entertaining, and of course, watching your favorite films under the stars.

Affordable and comfortable outdoor furniture is out there—you just need to know where to look. Whether you go for a DIY setup or a ready-made sectional, your perfect movie night setup is just a few cushions away.

Thinking About Offering Below Asking Price in Central Ohio?

If you’re house hunting in Central Ohio, the thought of offering below asking price might have crossed your mind. After all, who doesn’t love a good deal? But, before you jump in, it’s important to understand when this strategy might actually work — and when it could cost you the house.

Let’s break it down! Here’s a quick guide on when to consider offering under asking price in the Central Ohio market in 2025 and, more importantly, why you should be careful about doing so.

When Offering Below Asking Price Can Work in Central Ohio

1. Inventory is Up

In case you haven’t heard, homes are popping up on the market in Central Ohio at a higher rate than we’ve seen in recent years. As of February 2025, inventory in the region increased by 32% compared to last year (Columbus Business First, 2025). More homes = more options, which can give buyers a little more negotiating room, especially on properties that have been sitting for a while.

2. Homes Are Taking Longer to Sell

Gone are the days of homes flying off the market in a matter of days. In March 2025, the average time a home sat on the market was 33 days (Columbus Dispatch, 2025). This gives buyers a bit more time to evaluate the home and potentially make a below-asking offer without getting outbid immediately.

3. Price Reductions Are Happening

Sellers are starting to lower their expectations as market conditions shift. In April 2025, nearly one in five homes in the area had experienced a price reduction (The Ohio Real Estate Report, 2025). If a home has already been marked down, you may have a chance to negotiate even further down.

4. Economic Shifts are Affecting Buyer Demand

Higher interest rates and inflation have cooled the housing market overall, which means less competition (National Association of Realtors, 2025). Fewer buyers competing for homes could give you more leverage, especially if the property has been on the market for a while.

When Offering Below Asking Price Can Backfire

1. You Might Lose the Deal

In neighborhoods like Short North or Grandview Heights, homes are still in high demand. If the home is priced right and in a hot spot, offering below asking could mean getting outbid. Buyers are still active, so don’t expect low offers to always work (Columbus Real Estate News, 2025).

2. Sellers May Take Offense

Nobody likes to feel like their home is undervalued, and if you offer way below the asking price, it could come across as a lowball offer. Sellers may take offense, especially if they’ve already priced the home fairly. This could result in a rejected offer or a counteroffer that’s close to the asking price (National Association of Realtors, 2025).

3. The Home May Be Priced Fairly

Sometimes, sellers are already pricing homes competitively. If the home’s asking price is in line with comparable sales in the area, offering too low might not be the best strategy. A good agent can help you determine if the price is justified before making your move (Realtor.com, 2025).

4. Strong Demand in Certain Areas

Not all areas of Central Ohio are created equal. Some neighborhoods are still experiencing multiple offers on well-priced homes. Offering below asking in these competitive areas might just mean you’re wasting your time. If you're eyeing a popular spot, be prepared to come in strong (Columbus Business First, 2025).

So, Should You Offer Below Asking Price in Columbus?

If you’ve found a home in Central Ohio that’s been sitting on the market for a while or the seller has reduced the price, you might have an opportunity to negotiate a lower price. But, if you’re looking at a well-priced home in a hot neighborhood, offering below asking could mean you’re wasting your shot.

In 2025, Central Ohio’s market is cooling in some areas, but it’s still competitive in others. It’s all about timing, the neighborhood, and the specific home you’re eyeing. So, take a smart approach, work with an experienced agent, and don’t be afraid to negotiate — just know when to pull back.

Quick Tips for Making a Smart Offer:

• Look at comps (comparable sales) in the neighborhood to see if the asking price is reasonable.
• Check the days on market — if the house has been listed for a while, you may have room to negotiate.
• Ask your agent about the seller’s motivation.
• Don’t lead with emotion; stay strategic!
  
  

Need help navigating the market or want to talk about your next offer?
Let’s connect! I’m here to help you make a smart move in Columbus and beyond.

Sources:

• Columbus Business First. (2025). "Columbus Real Estate Inventory Up 32% in Early 2025." columbusbusinessfirst.com
• Columbus Dispatch. (2025). "Homes in Central Ohio Sitting Longer in 2025." dispatch.com
• The Ohio Real Estate Report. (2025). "Price Reductions Across Central Ohio: What Buyers Need to Know." ohiorealestatereport.com
• National Association of Realtors. (2025). "How Economic Uncertainty is Affecting Real Estate Buyers." nar.realtor
• Realtor.com. (2025). "Is the Home Priced Right? Understanding Seller Expectations in Columbus." realtor.com
• Columbus Real Estate News. (2025). "Real Estate Hotspots in Central Ohio: Where Offers are Still Competitive." columbusrealestatenews.com

Which Closet System is Right for You? Here's My Take.

There’s nothing quite like walking into a beautifully organized closet... especially after wrestling with one that really doesn’t want to cooperate.

This blog post? It actually started with my own closet drama. I’ve got this angled wall—45 degrees—and finding a system that fit felt like solving a home design Rubik’s cube. I tried sketching layouts, measuring (and re-measuring), and even looked into the fan-favorite IKEA PAX. But at 22" deep, it completely overwhelmed my space. Closets by Design, on the other hand, offered 12" and 16" depths that made way more sense—and didn’t require me to Frankenstein a bunch of pieces together and lose a warranty in the process.

So, if you're staring at your own awkward layout wondering what to do, this one’s for you.

Here’s my breakdown of three closet system options I’ve considered, tested, and talked through with clients: IKEA PAX, Closets by Design (shoutout to Trey Wight at twight@closetsbydesign.net), and Buckeye Custom Cabinets (where Kathy Morgan is designing serious closet goals right here in Central Ohio).

🚪 Option 1: IKEA PAX — The DIY Hero

If you’ve gone Pinterest diving for closet inspiration, you’ve definitely seen the IKEA PAX system. It’s modular, sleek, and crazy affordable. But—as I found out—it’s not a fit for every space.

What I love:

• The online planner is actually fun to use

• You can customize drawers, trays, dividers—even lights

• If you're on a budget, it's hard to beat

Where it fell short (personally):

• The standard depth is 22", which was way too bulky for my angled wall

• Customizing outside IKEA’s preset plans? You void the warranty

• It’s a full-on DIY project. If you’re not handy, this can get frustrating—fast

Bottom line?
PAX is a great choice for someone who’s handy, has a standard layout, and wants that modern, budget-conscious look.

Here was my design with my online planning consult. As you can see, WAY too big! Also, there was really no solution for my angled wall. The online planner does not allow for the customization. 

🛠️ Option 2: Closets by Design — Custom-ish Without the Headache

This is the direction I’m leaning for my own space. Closets by Design, especially with Trey Wight leading the charge, hits a sweet spot between custom flexibility and professional finish—without the full custom price tag.

Why it makes sense (especially for angled spaces):

• You can choose from 12" or 16" depths, which worked beautifully with my layout

• A designer (like Trey!) comes out to measure and pla

• n around quirks like angled walls

• No DIY required—install is done for you, with a clean, finished look

• And the big one for me? Lifetime warranty. That peace of mind goes a long way

Want to explore it?
Trey’s your guy. You can reach him directly at twight@closetsbydesign.net—he’s helped several of my clients and knows how to handle tough spaces.

Bottom line?
If you’re looking for an elegant closet that works with real-life spaces (like angled walls) and want it handled professionally, this is a fantastic middle-ground option.

Now, here is the kicker. If I go with this option, I will save $1500 by simply changing to WHITE. I don't love it...but I love saving $1500! 

🪵 Option 3: Buckeye Custom Cabinets — Boutique Luxury, Locally Made

If you’re dreaming of a closet that feels like your own personal boutique, this is it. Buckeye Custom Cabinets, run by designer Kathy Morgan in Powell, builds completely custom, jaw-dropping spaces.

What makes it special:

• Everything is tailored to your space, down to the last inch

• Kathy’s design sense? Impeccable—this is boutique-level finish with smart functionality

• You’re supporting a locally owned, female-led business (which I love)

Considerations:

• As you'd expect, this is a premium investment with a longer lead time

• It's probably more than you need if you're refreshing a guest closet or prepping a quick flip

Bottom line?
This is for those building their forever home, remodeling their dream suite, or just ready to treat themselves.

So... Which Should You Choose?

It all depends on your layout, budget, and how much customization you’re really after.

Final Thoughts

After wrangling my own closet and helping clients do the same, I’ve realized a good system isn’t just about storage—it’s about sanity. When your space actually works for how you live, it just feels better.

If you're in Central Ohio and need help figuring out what’s right for your layout (or want intros to Trey or Kathy), I’m just a message away.

Are Accent Walls Out? Exploring 2025 Interior Design Trends

Accent walls have long been a popular design choice, offering a simple yet impactful way to add character to a room. However, as we move into 2025, many homeowners and designers are re-evaluating their place in modern interiors. So, are accent walls out of style? Let's delve into the latest trends and expert insights to find out.

The Decline of Traditional Accent Walls

In recent years, the classic approach of painting a single wall in a bold color has seen a decline. Designers argue that such walls can appear disconnected from the overall design, making spaces feel incomplete. Kristen Peña, a California-based interior designer, notes, "I wish everyone would read the memo that one wall of color is not the way to go. Be bold and be brave!" House Beautiful

Instead of isolated accent walls, there's a growing preference for cohesive color schemes that envelop the entire room, creating a more unified and intentional aesthetic. Century 21 Redwood Realty

The Rise of Accent Ceilings and Color Drenching

As traditional accent walls wane, new trends are emerging. One such trend is the use of accent ceilings, often referred to as the "fifth wall." Designers are now turning their attention upward, using bold colors, wallpapers, and textures to add interest to ceilings. This approach can make rooms feel more dynamic and thoughtfully designed. YahooHouse BeautifulYouTube+6Pinterest+6House Beautiful+6

Another popular trend is "color drenching," where walls, ceilings, and even trim are painted in the same hue or varying shades of a single color. This technique creates a cozy, enveloping atmosphere and allows for a more immersive design experience.

Modern Interpretations of Accent Walls

While the traditional accent wall may be fading, modern interpretations are keeping the concept alive. Instead of relying solely on paint, designers are incorporating various materials and textures to create feature walls that add depth and interest. Some of the trending accent wall ideas for 2025 include:Homes and Gardens+2House Digest+2Yahoo+2

• Geometric Designs: Using shapes like arches, triangles, and squares to create visually stimulating patterns. House Digest

• Color Blocking: Combining multiple complementary colors in blocks to add vibrancy and structure.

• Textured Materials: Incorporating materials like wood slats, grasscloth wallpaper, or limewash to add tactile interest.House Digest

• Earthy Tones: Utilizing rich, natural colors such as terracotta, deep greens, and warm browns to create a grounded feel.

These modern accent walls focus on texture, materiality, and cohesive design, moving beyond the simple painted wall to create more sophisticated and integrated features.

Conclusion: Evolving, Not Obsolete

So, are accent walls out? Not entirely. While the traditional single-colored accent wall is becoming less common, the concept has evolved. Modern design embraces more integrated and textured approaches, ensuring that feature walls remain a valuable tool in interior design when executed thoughtfully.Instagram+1Architectural Digest+1Wikipedia+1Wikipedia+1

For homeowners in Columbus, Ohio, looking to update their spaces, considering these contemporary trends can lead to more cohesive and stylish interiors. Whether it's through color drenching, accent ceilings, or textured feature walls, there are numerous ways to add character and depth to your home.

Ready to Transform Your Space?

At Carter Group Columbus, we specialize in bringing modern design trends to life. Contact us today to learn how we can help you incorporate these evolving accent wall trends into your home.

Best Paint Colors for Selling Your Home in 2025

So, you're getting ready to sell your home. You’ve decluttered, deep cleaned, maybe even done a little staging. But before you list, here’s one of the simplest, most powerful updates you can make: paint.

A fresh coat of paint can completely change how buyers see your home—but only if you pick the right color. Bold choices might reflect your personality, but when it comes to resale, neutral and strategic is the way to go.

Here’s everything you need to know about choosing the best paint colors to help your home sell faster—and for top dollar—in 2025.

Why Paint Color Matters

Paint plays a bigger role in selling your home than you might think. It sets the tone for the entire space. The right shade can make a room feel bigger, cleaner, brighter, and more welcoming. It also helps potential buyers picture themselves living there—which is exactly what you want during a showing.

Neutral paint colors are consistently ranked among the top features buyers look for in a move-in-ready home. They're timeless, easy on the eyes, and make it easier for people to imagine their furniture and style in the space.

The Best Paint Colors to Attract Buyers

If you're painting to sell, stick with neutrals—but that doesn’t mean flat or boring. In 2025, we’re seeing a rise in warm, layered neutrals that create a calm, modern feel.

Greige (Gray + Beige)

Greige is a top seller. It blends the softness of beige with the crispness of gray, making it incredibly versatile. It works beautifully in living rooms, hallways, and bedrooms.

Popular picks:

• Sherwin-Williams Agreeable Gray
• Benjamin Moore Revere Pewter
  
  

Soft White

White opens up a space and reflects light, but not just any white will do. Choose a warm white with subtle undertones for a fresh but welcoming vibe, especially in kitchens and bathrooms.

Popular picks:

• Behr Swiss Coffee
• Benjamin Moore Simply White
  
  

Mushroom and Taupe Tones

These earthy, cozy neutrals are great for large open spaces. They add a bit more character than plain beige without overwhelming the room.

Popular picks:

• Sherwin-Williams Accessible Beige
• Farrow & Ball Skimming Stone
  
  

Light Cool Gray

This is still a favorite for more modern homes. It brings a clean, minimal feel to bedrooms and bathrooms, especially in homes with cooler lighting or modern finishes.

Popular picks:

• Benjamin Moore Gray Owl
• Valspar Filtered Shade
  
  

What to Avoid When Painting to Sell

Just as the right paint can help sell your home, the wrong paint can make it harder to attract buyers. Bright, bold colors might seem trendy or fun, but they can turn off potential buyers who want a clean slate.

It’s best to avoid:

• Bright reds, oranges, or purples
• Dark, moody shades in small or poorly lit rooms
• Accent walls that feel too personal or specific
• Outdated colors from previous decades (looking at you, mustard yellow)
  
  

Keep your palette light, consistent, and calming throughout the home.

What Paint Works Best in Each Room?

Each room has its own mood, and paint should reflect that while maintaining a cohesive look throughout the house.

• Living Rooms benefit from warm greige or taupe to create a cozy, inviting vibe.
• Kitchens look best in clean whites or soft gray tones that highlight cabinetry and lighting.
• Bedrooms should feel restful, so opt for cool gray or muted beige.
• Bathrooms feel most spa-like in crisp whites or very pale blues.
  
  

Final Thoughts

Paint may seem like a small detail, but it plays a huge role in the way buyers experience your home. Choosing neutral, widely appealing colors is one of the easiest ways to boost your home's value and get it sold faster.

If you're not sure where to start or which colors will work best for your space, you're not alone. A well-planned color palette, combined with expert staging and the right pricing strategy, can make all the difference.

Thinking of selling? Let’s talk about getting your home market-ready—starting with the perfect paint.

Why Ohio’s Housing Market Won’t Crash in 2025—and Why That’s Good News for Buyers and Sellers

Is the Housing Market Going to Crash in 2025? Not in Ohio.

If you’ve been waiting for housing prices to drop back to pre-COVID levels, you might be waiting forever. According to current economic data, Ohio’s housing market—especially in places like Columbus and Central Ohio—is not heading for a recession. In fact, it’s showing signs of stability, growth, and long-term opportunity.

Let’s break down why.

What Would It Take to Return to Pre-COVID Affordability?

To go back to 2019-era home affordability, we’d need:

• 📉 A 41% decrease in home prices

• 💰 A 69% increase in median household income

• 📉 A 4.3% drop in mortgage interest rates

According to industry analysts, none of those conditions are happening. Instead of a crash, we’re seeing a market correction—a recalibration to new economic realities.

Ohio Housing Market 2025: What the Data Shows

Recent insights into Ohio’s housing performance highlight several encouraging trends:

• 🏡 Median home price: ~$235,000 (well below the U.S. average of $410,000)

• 📈 Year-over-year home price increase: +2.1%

• 🏘️ Inventory remains tight, supporting home values

These stats show a market that’s balanced—not in decline.

🔗 Source: Ohio Housing Market Forecast - LinkedIn

Central Ohio Real Estate: A Closer Look

Columbus and surrounding areas are seeing steady momentum:

• 💲 Median sale price: $305,000 (as of Feb 2025)

• 🏠 Inventory: +32% year-over-year

• ⏳ Average days on market: 43

Increased inventory gives buyers more options, while price stability keeps sellers in a strong position.

🔗 Source: Columbus Realtors – February 2025 Market Report

Why Central Ohio Won’t See a Housing Recession

Central Ohio’s housing market continues to thrive, thanks to three key drivers:

1. Strong Job Growth

With major employers in healthcare, tech, finance, and logistics, the Columbus region boasts low unemployment (~3.2%) and a diverse economy.

🔗 Source: Columbus Real Estate Market 2025 – Luxury Playbook

2. Population Growth & Migration

Affordable housing and quality of life continue to draw new residents to the area, especially from more expensive cities.

🔗 Source: Columbus Housing Forecast – What's My Cashflow

3. Fixed-Rate Mortgage Stability

Nationwide, 96.4% of homeowners have fixed-rate mortgages, and 38.5% are mortgage-free. This keeps foreclosure risk low and contributes to market stability.

🔗 Source: Bankrate Housing Market Outlook 2025

What This Means for Buyers and Sellers

• For Buyers: Increased inventory and slower price growth = more negotiating power.

• For Sellers: Demand is still healthy, and price stability keeps equity strong.

Rather than waiting for a dramatic price drop that may never come, focus on building a smart real estate strategy based on today’s conditions.

Final Take: The Ohio Housing Market Isn’t Crashing—It’s Evolving

In 2025, the Ohio housing market is defined by resilience, not risk. With job growth, population trends, and housing fundamentals on its side, Central Ohio remains a smart place to buy, sell, and invest.

Ready to Make a Move in Central Ohio?

If you're thinking about buying or selling in today’s market, let’s talk about your goals. I’ll help you build a plan that works in this economy—not the one we left behind.

💬 Drop a 🏡 in the comments or message me today.

How to Finance Home Renovations Before Selling: Smart Options to Boost Your Home’s Value

Are you preparing to sell your home but overwhelmed by the cost of necessary upgrades? You're not alone. Renovating before selling can help your home sell faster and for more money—but the upfront costs often stop homeowners in their tracks.

The good news? You don’t have to dip into your savings. There are smart financing options that allow you to make valuable home improvements now and reap the rewards at closing.

In our latest video, we team up with a remodeling expert from JSB Home Solutions to break down how to finance home updates before selling—without the stress.

🎥 [Watch the full video here]

Why Renovate Before Selling Your Home?

In today’s competitive market, move-in-ready homes have a clear advantage. Buyers are willing to pay more for updated kitchens, fresh paint, and modern finishes. By making targeted improvements, you can boost your home’s market value, attract more offers, and close the deal faster.

Top Pre-Sale Renovation Projects That Add Value:

• Kitchen and bathroom remodels
• Fresh interior and exterior paint
• Flooring upgrades
• Curb appeal and landscaping improvements
• Updated lighting and fixtures
  
  

Best Ways to Finance Home Renovations Before Selling

Here are six popular financing options that make it possible to update your home now—and pay later:

1. Home Equity Loan

Borrow a lump sum against your home’s equity at a fixed interest rate. Ideal for large, one-time renovation projects.

2. HELOC (Home Equity Line of Credit)

A revolving line of credit based on your home equity. Great for ongoing or phased projects, but interest rates can vary.

3. Personal Loans

Quick and unsecured, these loans don’t require home equity. Good for smaller projects—but rates may be higher.

4. Credit Cards

Best for low-cost updates like paint or fixtures. Only recommended if you can pay off the balance quickly due to high interest rates.

5. Cash-Out Refinance

Refinance your mortgage and take out extra cash to fund renovations. This option works well for major upgrades with long-term return.

6. Contractor Financing

Some remodeling companies, like JSB Home Solutions, offer in-house financing—sometimes with promotional rates or no interest for a limited time.

How to Choose the Right Renovation Financing Option

Before committing, ask yourself:

• What’s the total cost of your renovations?
• How soon do you plan to list your home?
• Which updates will yield the best ROI in your area?
• Do you have equity or strong credit?
  
  

Working with a trusted real estate professional—like someone of The Carter Group—can help you decide which improvements will make the biggest impact in your local market.

Is Financing Pre-Sale Renovations Worth It?

In most cases, yes. Strategic upgrades in key areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and curb appeal often lead to a higher sale price and faster closing. But it’s important to choose updates and financing solutions that align with your goals and timeline.

Talk to your agent and remodeling contractor to create a smart, budget-conscious plan.

Ready to Renovate and Sell in Central Ohio?

Whether you're looking to update your home before listing or simply want to increase its value, we’re here to help.

🔨 JSB Home Solutions offers expert remodeling services and flexible financing options for homeowners preparing to sell.
🏡 The Carter Group with Keller Williams Consultants will guide you through the selling process—from renovations to closing.

📩 Contact us today to schedule a consultation and make the most of your home sale!

Partnering for a Purpose: Proud Sponsor of the 2025 Nat Gala

At The Carter Group, we believe real estate is about more than homes—it's about community. That’s why we’re incredibly proud to sponsor the 2025 Nat Gala, the signature event hosted by the Natalie Gray Foundation, an organization leading the charge in the fight against pediatric brain cancer.

Honoring a Mission Born from Courage

The Natalie Gray Foundation was founded by Natalie Gray, who was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor at just 13 years old. Instead of letting the diagnosis define her, Natalie turned it into a mission—creating a foundation to fund lifesaving research and raise critical awareness.

Each year, approximately 3,920 children in the U.S. are diagnosed with a primary brain or central nervous system tumor, making brain tumors the most common solid cancer in children and the leading cause of cancer-related death in kids under 15.

Turning Statistics into Action

The Natalie Gray Foundation is helping shift those statistics. It supports the CONNECT Consortium, a global collaboration of leading pediatric cancer centers working together to advance treatment and improve outcomes for children around the world.

Since its inception, the foundation has already raised $175,000 toward a $250,000 goal, supporting innovative research and offering hope to the more than 28,000 children in the U.S. currently living with a brain tumor diagnosis.

The overall five-year survival rate for children with primary brain tumors is around 83.1%, but that number drops for more aggressive types—making funding for early detection, targeted treatments, and clinical trials more important than ever.

The Nat Gala: Where Hope Meets Community

The Nat Gala is more than an event—it’s a movement. Each year, it brings together survivors, families, advocates, researchers, and donors for an inspiring evening of fundraising and celebration.

As proud sponsors of the 2025 Gala, The Carter Group stands shoulder-to-shoulder with Natalie and her team. We’re committed not only to homes and neighborhoods—but to hearts and futures.

💛 Join Us in Making a Difference

Whether through donations, attendance, or simply spreading the word, you can be part of the progress. Learn more about Natalie’s story and how to support this life-changing work at nataliegrayfoundation.org.

Together, we can help ensure that children facing pediatric brain cancer have a brighter, healthier tomorrow.

Lighting a Vaulted, Open-Concept Space: Why Is It So Stressful?!

Lighting a Vaulted, Open-Concept Space: Why Is It So Stressful?!

Lately, I’ve been knee-deep in lighting decisions for our renovation—and it’s honestly way harder than I expected! I'm currently trying to pick a linear light for over our kitchen island and a drum light for the dining area. With our vaulted ceilings and open-concept layout, I quickly realized the wrong fixture could totally throw off the vibe of the entire space.

Thankfully, I’m not doing this alone—I’m working with an amazing interior designer, Susan from SC Designs. She’s been a huge help in narrowing down options and pulling everything together in a way that feels polished but still true to our style. If you’re in the Columbus area and need design help, definitely check her out at scdesigns614.com. You’ll love her eye for detail and how easy she makes the process!

While doing my own research, I found a few super helpful resources:

• Kitchen Vaulted Ceiling Lighting Ideas from Lightopia

• Illuminating Elegance: Rules of Light Fixtures Above the Kitchen Island by J. Jones Design Co.

Both articles made me realize just how important scale, proportion, and ceiling height are when choosing fixtures—especially in open-concept spaces with vaulted ceilings. Tiny lights that look adorable online can completely disappear once you actually install them in a tall, wide room. (Definitely almost made that mistake!)

Here in Central Ohio, homes with open layouts and high ceilings are in major demand. According to the Columbus REALTORS® 2024 Housing Report, homes featuring updated kitchens and modern layouts—including statement lighting—are selling 22% faster than traditional floor plans. Buyers love the light, airy feel vaulted ceilings offer, but they also expect a cohesive, finished look when it comes to lighting and design.

Tips for Choosing Lighting in Vaulted and Open Spaces

For our kitchen island, I learned that a longer linear pendant or a series of larger fixtures is the way to go. The Lightopia article emphasized using lighting to visually "anchor" the island without overwhelming the space. J. Jones Design Co. broke it down even further—talking about ideal sizing and spacing. (Did you know your island lights should typically span about two-thirds the width of the island?!)

For the dining space, I’m leaning toward a bold drum pendant. It’ll help define the area under the vaulted ceiling without closing it off visually. Both articles also recommended looking for adjustable height fixtures—which makes so much sense with varying ceiling heights!

Adding the right fixtures can truly pay off: the 2023 National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) study found that lighting upgrades offer an estimated 67% ROI (return on investment) during resale—especially when styled correctly in open-concept homes like ours.

Stressful...But Worth It

Even with all this info (and Susan’s incredible guidance!), it’s still so stressful trying to picture how everything will look together. There are SO many options out there, and it's easy to second-guess every decision. But feeling more educated about scale, ceiling lines, and layout has made a huge difference in narrowing things down and making choices I’ll actually love long-term.

If you’re renovating, building, or just updating your lights:

• Definitely check out the resources above.

• Measure everything twice.

• And don’t be afraid to call in an expert like Susan—working with a designer has made this process 10x less overwhelming.

Central Ohio’s housing market continues to evolve, and thoughtful upgrades like good lighting aren’t just trendy—they’re smart investments. I’ll keep you posted once I finally make some decisions (and if you have a favorite island light or dining room pendant, seriously send it my way—I need all the inspo I can get!).

💡 Quick Local Stat Snap:

✅ Homes with upgraded kitchens in Central Ohio sell 22% faster.
✅ Lighting upgrades can provide a 67% ROI at resale.
✅ Vaulted ceilings remain a top 5 feature buyers look for in suburban Columbus neighborhoods (source: Columbus REALTORS® 2024 Trends Report).

I'll keep you posted once I finally make some decisions (and if you have a favorite island light or dining room pendant, seriously send it my way—I need all the inspo I can get!).