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CollegeHousing.ai provides 100% exclusive geographic routing to one selected Realtor and one Loan Officer per campus market. Inquiries are never resold or shared with competing agents.

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The platform offers 4-year parent rent-vs-buy calculators, student rental income analysis, DSCR cash-flow metrics, and seller property reviews across 95+ college housing markets.

OSU Housing: Homes, Rentals & Rent vs Buy Comparison

Ohio State University Property Explorer

Homes for Sale Near Ohio State University

Representative buy scenarios within a few miles of Ohio State University's campus. Select a situation to view details, or inquire about finding a real property.

Representative Property Examples — Not Active Listings

These are illustrative housing scenarios and estimated price ranges to help you understand the market — not verified inventory, addresses, or listing prices. A local real estate professional can share current, accurate listings near Ohio State University.

20 representative Buy examples near Ohio State University

YOUR OHIO STATE LOAN OFFICER

Matt DeanNEXA Lending · NMLS #227603(512) 415-6142

View Profile

For Sale

1.3 miles from campus

Small Multifamily · Campus Area

3 bd 2 ba 1,500 sqft$250,000

A duplex where the owner occupies one side and rents the other — a classic parent or investor approach to offset housing costs. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. A Realtor helps confirm local occupancy and financing rules for an owner-occupied multifamily purchase.

For Sale

1.3 miles from campus

Small Multifamily · Campus Area

3 bd 2 ba 1,500 sqft$250,000

A duplex where the owner occupies one side and rents the other — a classic parent or investor approach to offset housing costs. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. A Realtor helps confirm local occupancy and financing rules for an owner-occupied multifamily purchase.

For Sale

1.3 miles from campus

Condo · Campus Area

1 bd 1 ba 850 sqft$145,000

A 1-bedroom condo — a simple, low-cost option for a single student or a small investor rental. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. A Realtor verifies rental rules, HOA fees, and whether a single bedroom makes sense for your plan.

For Sale

1.3 miles from campus

Condo · Campus Area

1 bd 1 ba 850 sqft$145,000

A 1-bedroom condo — a simple, low-cost option for a single student or a small investor rental. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. A Realtor verifies rental rules, HOA fees, and whether a single bedroom makes sense for your plan.

For Sale

1.4 miles from campus

Townhome · Campus Area

2 bd 2 ba 1,200 sqft$198,000

A 2-bedroom townhome with a small patio — a sensible downsized purchase for a family hosting one student. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. A Realtor helps judge resale, HOA dues, and whether the unit covers the owner's goals.

For Sale

1.4 miles from campus

Townhome · Campus Area

2 bd 2 ba 1,200 sqft$198,000

A 2-bedroom townhome with a small patio — a sensible downsized purchase for a family hosting one student. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. A Realtor helps judge resale, HOA dues, and whether the unit covers the owner's goals.

For Sale

1.4 miles from campus

Small Multifamily · Campus Area

5 bd 3 ba 2,100 sqft$328,000

A larger owner-occupied or full-rental multi-unit scenario where one unit covers the owner and others produce income. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. House-hack/full-rental math needs a local expert who understands unit mix, local codes, and financing.

For Sale

1.4 miles from campus

Small Multifamily · Campus Area

5 bd 3 ba 2,100 sqft$328,000

A larger owner-occupied or full-rental multi-unit scenario where one unit covers the owner and others produce income. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. House-hack/full-rental math needs a local expert who understands unit mix, local codes, and financing.

For Sale

1.4 miles from campus

Single-Family House · Campus Area

3 bd 2 ba 2,000 sqft$289,000

A 3-bedroom ranch-style house on a larger lot — roomy for a student group with outdoor parking and yard space. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. A Realtor verifies parking capacity, occupancy limits, and school zoning before purchase.

For Sale

1.4 miles from campus

Single-Family House · Campus Area

3 bd 2 ba 2,000 sqft$289,000

A 3-bedroom ranch-style house on a larger lot — roomy for a student group with outdoor parking and yard space. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. A Realtor verifies parking capacity, occupancy limits, and school zoning before purchase.

For Sale

1.4 miles from campus

Condo · Campus Area

2 bd 1 ba 950 sqft$158,000

A compact 2-bedroom condo — an affordable entry point into the campus housing market for a single student. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. A Realtor reviews the condo association, rental order, and resale market before you buy.

For Sale

1.4 miles from campus

Condo · Campus Area

2 bd 1 ba 950 sqft$158,000

A compact 2-bedroom condo — an affordable entry point into the campus housing market for a single student. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. A Realtor reviews the condo association, rental order, and resale market before you buy.

For Sale

1.4 miles from campus

Townhome · Campus Area

4 bd 3 ba 1,850 sqft$262,000

A 4-bedroom townhome designed for group living — a common investor layout with strong per-bedroom income potential. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. A Realtor with group-rental experience helps size realistic income and assess tenant-fit risks.

For Sale

1.4 miles from campus

Townhome · Campus Area

4 bd 3 ba 1,850 sqft$262,000

A 4-bedroom townhome designed for group living — a common investor layout with strong per-bedroom income potential. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. A Realtor with group-rental experience helps size realistic income and assess tenant-fit risks.

For Sale

1.4 miles from campus

Single-Family House · Campus Area

5 bd 3 ba 2,600 sqft$355,000

A 5-bedroom house — one of the strongest roommate-income scenarios a parent or investor evaluates. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. Five-bedroom layouts need careful underwriting on occupancy, parking, and rent split. A Realtor who knows the market helps validate it.

For Sale

1.4 miles from campus

Single-Family House · Campus Area

5 bd 3 ba 2,600 sqft$355,000

A 5-bedroom house — one of the strongest roommate-income scenarios a parent or investor evaluates. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. Five-bedroom layouts need careful underwriting on occupancy, parking, and rent split. A Realtor who knows the market helps validate it.

For Sale

1.5 miles from campus

Townhome · Campus Area

3 bd 3 ba 1,600 sqft$233,000

A 3-bedroom townhome with a one-to-one bedroom-to-bath ratio — comfortable privacy for a student and roommates. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. A Realtor checks lease-by-room viability and community rules that shape the rental outcome.

For Sale

1.5 miles from campus

Townhome · Campus Area

3 bd 3 ba 1,600 sqft$233,000

A 3-bedroom townhome with a one-to-one bedroom-to-bath ratio — comfortable privacy for a student and roommates. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. A Realtor checks lease-by-room viability and community rules that shape the rental outcome.

For Sale

1.5 miles from campus

Single-Family House · Campus Area

4 bd 2 ba 2,050 sqft$305,000

A 4-bedroom house in a family neighborhood — attractive to both parent buyers and investors targeting the campus area. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. A local Realtor balances family resale appeal against rental income for your specific goal.

For Sale

1.5 miles from campus

Single-Family House · Campus Area

4 bd 2 ba 2,050 sqft$305,000

A 4-bedroom house in a family neighborhood — attractive to both parent buyers and investors targeting the campus area. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. A local Realtor balances family resale appeal against rental income for your specific goal.

For Sale

1.9 miles from campus

Townhome · Campus Area

3 bd 3 ba 1,550 sqft$239,000

A 3-bedroom townhome with a roommate-friendly layout — a middle ground between a condo and a detached house for families and small investor portfolios. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. Townhome communities often cap rentals. A local Realtor identifies which allow the use you have in mind.

For Sale

1.9 miles from campus

Townhome · Campus Area

3 bd 3 ba 1,550 sqft$239,000

A 3-bedroom townhome with a roommate-friendly layout — a middle ground between a condo and a detached house for families and small investor portfolios. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. Townhome communities often cap rentals. A local Realtor identifies which allow the use you have in mind.

For Sale

1.9 miles from campus

Single-Family House · Campus Area

4 bd 3 ba 2,200 sqft$315,000

A 4-bedroom house with room for several roommates — a scenario investors evaluate for student-rental income. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. Rent-by-room potential depends on layout, parking, and local occupancy rules. A Realtor familiar with the rental market helps underwrite realistic income.

For Sale

1.9 miles from campus

Single-Family House · Campus Area

4 bd 3 ba 2,200 sqft$315,000

A 4-bedroom house with room for several roommates — a scenario investors evaluate for student-rental income. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. Rent-by-room potential depends on layout, parking, and local occupancy rules. A Realtor familiar with the rental market helps underwrite realistic income.

For Sale

2.0 miles from campus

Single-Family House · Campus Area

3 bd 2 ba 1,750 sqft$278,000

A 3-bedroom single-family house in a campus-area subdivision — the classic parent purchase so a student can live with roommates while the family builds equity. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. A local Realtor verifies which subdivisions actually allow student rentals, checks HOA rules, and prices the home against comparable sales.

For Sale

2.0 miles from campus

Single-Family House · Campus Area

3 bd 2 ba 1,750 sqft$278,000

A 3-bedroom single-family house in a campus-area subdivision — the classic parent purchase so a student can live with roommates while the family builds equity. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. A local Realtor verifies which subdivisions actually allow student rentals, checks HOA rules, and prices the home against comparable sales.

For Sale

2.0 miles from campus

Condo · Campus Area

2 bd 2 ba 1,100 sqft$189,000

A 2-bedroom condo in a managed community — a low-maintenance lock-and-leave option with HOA-managed exteriors for families who visit on breaks. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. Condo communities vary in rental restrictions and HOA dues. A Realtor reviews the condo docs before you commit.

For Sale

2.0 miles from campus

Condo · Campus Area

2 bd 2 ba 1,100 sqft$189,000

A 2-bedroom condo in a managed community — a low-maintenance lock-and-leave option with HOA-managed exteriors for families who visit on breaks. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. Condo communities vary in rental restrictions and HOA dues. A Realtor reviews the condo docs before you commit.

For Sale

2.0 miles from campus

Small Multifamily · Campus Area

4 bd 2 ba 1,900 sqft$295,000

A small multifamily unit (duplex or larger) where multiple units generate rental income near campus. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. Multifamily underwriting, zoning, and financing differ from single-family. A Realtor with investor experience helps evaluate cap rate and expenses.

For Sale

2.0 miles from campus

Small Multifamily · Campus Area

4 bd 2 ba 1,900 sqft$295,000

A small multifamily unit (duplex or larger) where multiple units generate rental income near campus. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. Multifamily underwriting, zoning, and financing differ from single-family. A Realtor with investor experience helps evaluate cap rate and expenses.

For Sale

2.0 miles from campus

Condo · Campus Area

2 bd 2 ba 1,050 sqft$172,000

A 2-bedroom condo positioned to serve both student and local professional rental demand, supporting year-round occupancy. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. A Realtor helps compare communities by rental history, HOA rules, and proximity to local demand.

For Sale

2.0 miles from campus

Condo · Campus Area

2 bd 2 ba 1,050 sqft$172,000

A 2-bedroom condo positioned to serve both student and local professional rental demand, supporting year-round occupancy. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. A Realtor helps compare communities by rental history, HOA rules, and proximity to local demand.

For Sale

2.0 miles from campus

Townhome · Campus Area

3 bd 2 ba 1,450 sqft$226,000

A 3-bedroom townhome in a gated, HOA-managed community — a parent-friendly option where exterior upkeep is handled for you. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. Gated communities have specific rental and occupancy rules. A Realtor confirms the community fits your ownership plan before you offer.

For Sale

2.0 miles from campus

Townhome · Campus Area

3 bd 2 ba 1,450 sqft$226,000

A 3-bedroom townhome in a gated, HOA-managed community — a parent-friendly option where exterior upkeep is handled for you. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. Gated communities have specific rental and occupancy rules. A Realtor confirms the community fits your ownership plan before you offer.

For Sale

2.0 miles from campus

Single-Family House · Campus Area

4 bd 3 ba 2,400 sqft$342,000

A larger 4-bedroom house with a yard — a premium parent or investor scenario with strong roommate and resale appeal. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. Larger homes carry higher insurance, maintenance, and yard costs. A Realtor weighs ownership cost against realistic rental and resale value.

For Sale

2.0 miles from campus

Single-Family House · Campus Area

4 bd 3 ba 2,400 sqft$342,000

A larger 4-bedroom house with a yard — a premium parent or investor scenario with strong roommate and resale appeal. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. Larger homes carry higher insurance, maintenance, and yard costs. A Realtor weighs ownership cost against realistic rental and resale value.

For Sale

2.0 miles from campus

Condo · Campus Area

3 bd 2 ba 1,300 sqft$205,000

A 3-bedroom condo configured for shared occupancy — an efficient way to get multiple-roommate income without a whole house. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. A Realtor confirms the community allows the intended occupancy and reviews fees that affect cash flow.

For Sale

2.0 miles from campus

Condo · Campus Area

3 bd 2 ba 1,300 sqft$205,000

A 3-bedroom condo configured for shared occupancy — an efficient way to get multiple-roommate income without a whole house. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. A Realtor confirms the community allows the intended occupancy and reviews fees that affect cash flow.

For Sale

2.1 miles from campus

Single-Family House · Campus Area

3 bd 2 ba 1,650 sqft$264,000

A modest 3-bedroom house on a quiet street — a practical first-time parent purchase or small investor entry into the campus area. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. A Realtor checks zoning, short-term limits, and whether the floor plan suits a student plus a roommate.

For Sale

2.1 miles from campus

Single-Family House · Campus Area

3 bd 2 ba 1,650 sqft$264,000

A modest 3-bedroom house on a quiet street — a practical first-time parent purchase or small investor entry into the campus area. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. A Realtor checks zoning, short-term limits, and whether the floor plan suits a student plus a roommate.

YOUR OHIO STATE LOAN OFFICER

Matt DeanNEXA Lending · NMLS #227603(512) 415-6142

View Profile

View All Properties

Campus Area, Representative Example — photo 1

For Sale

For Sale · Small Multifamily

1.3 miles from campus

Columbus, OH xxxxx · Campus Area

$250,000 3 bd 2 ba 1,500 sqft

A duplex where the owner occupies one side and rents the other — a classic parent or investor approach to offset housing costs. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. A Realtor helps confirm local occupancy and financing rules for an owner-occupied multifamily purchase.

Viewing 1 of 20

Rent vs. Own + Cash-Flow Snapshot

Compare estimated nearby rent with the cost of owning this property. Roommate contributions may offset part of the payment, but all figures require review.

Rent Nearby

$2,850/mo

3 beds × $950/mo

Own This Property

$1,714/mo

Estimated payment @ 7.25%

Monthly Gap

+$1,136/mo

DSCR: 1.66x

Simple read: Estimated comparable rent is $2,850/mo. The estimated monthly ownership cost is $1,714/mo, creating an estimated difference of $1,136/mo before appreciation, tax treatment, principal reduction, maintenance changes, vacancies, or rent changes.

Roommate Rent Offset

If the student occupies one bedroom, up to 2 additional bedrooms may potentially be used by roommates. At an estimated $950 per occupied roommate bedroom, the projected monthly offset would be approximately $1,900.

Roommate income is not guaranteed. Lease gaps, turnover, non-payment, occupancy rules, and changing rental conditions may affect actual contributions.

Monthly Ownership Estimate

Estimated monthly costs with local-service review points for each line. Confirm actual financing, taxes, insurance, association charges, utilities, and management costs with qualified professionals.

Purchase Scenario

$250,000

est. price · 25% down ($62,500)

Principal & Interest

30-yr @ 7.25% · loan $187,500

$1,279/mo

Property Tax

~1.2% effective rate on $250,000

$252/mo

Homeowners / Hazard / Flood InsuranceConfirm during review

$2,200/yr estimate · varies by location, coverage, carrier

$183/mo

HOA / Condo DuesConfirm during review

Confirm during review

$0/mo

Property ManagementEducational estimate

~8% of gross rent · leasing, maintenance, rent collection

$228/mo

Internet / Utilities SetupConfirm during review

Student-friendly plan estimate · varies by provider

$80/mo

Move-In / Setup ReserveEducational estimate

Monthly reserve for furniture, storage, move-in costs

$200/mo

Estimated Total Monthly Ownership Cost

$2,222/mo

vs. $2,850/mo estimated rent

Compare Financing Options

Rent Nearby

$2,850/mo

Est. PITIA

$1,714/mo

Est. Diff

+$1,136/mo

Interest-Only

Request estimate

COMPARE FINANCING OPTIONS

Comparable Nearby Options

Compare other active Ohio State University-area properties from the current result set.

2.0 miles from campus

Small Multifamily · 4 bd / 2 ba · $295,000

Same property type

1.4 miles from campus

Small Multifamily · 5 bd / 3 ba · $328,000

Same property type

1.4 miles from campus

Single-Family House · 3 bd / 2 ba · $289,000

Similar property

Parent rent-vs-buyFinancing review

Additional Local Services

Property ManagementConfirm during review

Homeowners / Hazard / Flood InsuranceConfirm during review

Moving / StorageConfirm during review

Internet ProviderConfirm during review

Educational estimates only. These figures are not a loan quote, investment advice, tax advice, an appraisal, or a guarantee of rent, approval, occupancy, appreciation, or cash flow. Property-specific figures should be reviewed with qualified real estate, lending, insurance, tax, and property-management professionals.

20 representative Buy examples near Ohio State University

YOUR OHIO STATE LOAN OFFICER

Matt DeanNEXA Lending · NMLS #227603(512) 415-6142

View Profile

For Sale

1.3 miles from campus

Small Multifamily · Campus Area

3 bd 2 ba 1,500 sqft$250,000

A duplex where the owner occupies one side and rents the other — a classic parent or investor approach to offset housing costs. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. A Realtor helps confirm local occupancy and financing rules for an owner-occupied multifamily purchase.

For Sale

1.3 miles from campus

Small Multifamily · Campus Area

3 bd 2 ba 1,500 sqft$250,000

A duplex where the owner occupies one side and rents the other — a classic parent or investor approach to offset housing costs. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. A Realtor helps confirm local occupancy and financing rules for an owner-occupied multifamily purchase.

For Sale

1.3 miles from campus

Condo · Campus Area

1 bd 1 ba 850 sqft$145,000

A 1-bedroom condo — a simple, low-cost option for a single student or a small investor rental. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. A Realtor verifies rental rules, HOA fees, and whether a single bedroom makes sense for your plan.

For Sale

1.3 miles from campus

Condo · Campus Area

1 bd 1 ba 850 sqft$145,000

A 1-bedroom condo — a simple, low-cost option for a single student or a small investor rental. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. A Realtor verifies rental rules, HOA fees, and whether a single bedroom makes sense for your plan.

For Sale

1.4 miles from campus

Townhome · Campus Area

2 bd 2 ba 1,200 sqft$198,000

A 2-bedroom townhome with a small patio — a sensible downsized purchase for a family hosting one student. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. A Realtor helps judge resale, HOA dues, and whether the unit covers the owner's goals.

For Sale

1.4 miles from campus

Townhome · Campus Area

2 bd 2 ba 1,200 sqft$198,000

A 2-bedroom townhome with a small patio — a sensible downsized purchase for a family hosting one student. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. A Realtor helps judge resale, HOA dues, and whether the unit covers the owner's goals.

For Sale

1.4 miles from campus

Small Multifamily · Campus Area

5 bd 3 ba 2,100 sqft$328,000

A larger owner-occupied or full-rental multi-unit scenario where one unit covers the owner and others produce income. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. House-hack/full-rental math needs a local expert who understands unit mix, local codes, and financing.

For Sale

1.4 miles from campus

Small Multifamily · Campus Area

5 bd 3 ba 2,100 sqft$328,000

A larger owner-occupied or full-rental multi-unit scenario where one unit covers the owner and others produce income. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. House-hack/full-rental math needs a local expert who understands unit mix, local codes, and financing.

For Sale

1.4 miles from campus

Single-Family House · Campus Area

3 bd 2 ba 2,000 sqft$289,000

A 3-bedroom ranch-style house on a larger lot — roomy for a student group with outdoor parking and yard space. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. A Realtor verifies parking capacity, occupancy limits, and school zoning before purchase.

For Sale

1.4 miles from campus

Single-Family House · Campus Area

3 bd 2 ba 2,000 sqft$289,000

A 3-bedroom ranch-style house on a larger lot — roomy for a student group with outdoor parking and yard space. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. A Realtor verifies parking capacity, occupancy limits, and school zoning before purchase.

For Sale

1.4 miles from campus

Condo · Campus Area

2 bd 1 ba 950 sqft$158,000

A compact 2-bedroom condo — an affordable entry point into the campus housing market for a single student. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. A Realtor reviews the condo association, rental order, and resale market before you buy.

For Sale

1.4 miles from campus

Condo · Campus Area

2 bd 1 ba 950 sqft$158,000

A compact 2-bedroom condo — an affordable entry point into the campus housing market for a single student. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. A Realtor reviews the condo association, rental order, and resale market before you buy.

For Sale

1.4 miles from campus

Townhome · Campus Area

4 bd 3 ba 1,850 sqft$262,000

A 4-bedroom townhome designed for group living — a common investor layout with strong per-bedroom income potential. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. A Realtor with group-rental experience helps size realistic income and assess tenant-fit risks.

For Sale

1.4 miles from campus

Townhome · Campus Area

4 bd 3 ba 1,850 sqft$262,000

A 4-bedroom townhome designed for group living — a common investor layout with strong per-bedroom income potential. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. A Realtor with group-rental experience helps size realistic income and assess tenant-fit risks.

For Sale

1.4 miles from campus

Single-Family House · Campus Area

5 bd 3 ba 2,600 sqft$355,000

A 5-bedroom house — one of the strongest roommate-income scenarios a parent or investor evaluates. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. Five-bedroom layouts need careful underwriting on occupancy, parking, and rent split. A Realtor who knows the market helps validate it.

For Sale

1.4 miles from campus

Single-Family House · Campus Area

5 bd 3 ba 2,600 sqft$355,000

A 5-bedroom house — one of the strongest roommate-income scenarios a parent or investor evaluates. Representative purchase-price estimate only — not an active listing or an exact price. Five-bedroom layouts need careful underwriting on occupancy, parking, and rent split. A Realtor who knows the market helps validate it.

Property information, pricing, photographs, and availability may change. Verify current details before making a housing decision. CollegeHousing.ai is an independent housing information platform and is not a brokerage, MLS, property-listing provider, or affiliate of Ohio State University.

Could Buying Near OSU Cost Less Than Renting?

Compare your student's rent with estimated ownership costs after roommate contributions, equity and potential resale proceeds.

This is a planning estimate. Actual financing, expenses, rent and resale results vary.

1

2

3

Step 1: Property & Purchase

Purchase Price

$

Down Payment (%)

Years Near Campus (2–6)

Example Parent-Buyer Scenario

Illustrative starting scenario — adjust any assumption to compare your own situation.

Student's Monthly Rent

Estimated monthly cost for one student's private bedroom near campus.

$

Purchase Price

$

Down Payment

%

Interest Rate

%

Years Near Campus

Number of Roommates

Avg Monthly Rent Per Roommate

$

Estimated Family Cost After Roommates

$932/mo

Approximately $468/mo less than renting

After $1,440/mo roommate contribution

Estimated 4-Year Difference

Estimated 4-year advantage: $44,118

Includes estimated principal reduction and resale proceeds.

Based on 2 roommates contributing an estimated $1,440/mo, a 20% down payment and a 4-year hold.

2% appreciation · 4% selling costs · 90% roommate-rent collection

M

Personalized Financing Review

Get a personalized financing review using the numbers entered above.

Your calculator assumptions will be included automatically.

This estimate is educational and is not financial, tax, legal, real-estate or lending advice. Results are illustrative and do not guarantee loan approval, rental income, appreciation or investment performance.

Decision Path

What Are You Looking for Near OSU?

Buying Near Campus

Explore homes and condos near Ohio State University for parents, students, and owner-occupants.

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Renting Near Campus

Browse rental units near OSU — houses, apartments, and condos.

View Rentals

Investment Analysis

Evaluate student rental income, DSCR, and long-term campus-area demand in Columbus.

Run Numbers

Selling a Campus Property

Review pricing, market conditions, and exit strategy for an OSU-area property.

Get a Review

NEIGHBORHOODS

Compare Neighborhoods Near Ohio State

Compare four campus-area locations by proximity, housing type, buyer fit, and practical considerations before focusing your property search near Ohio State University.

View the Full Ohio State Neighborhood Guide

Student housing and residential streets near Ohio State University campus in Columbus

Walkable to Campus

University District / Off-Campus Core

43201 · Walkable to campus

The streets directly east and south of Ohio State's main campus — a dense mix of student rentals, single-family homes, and mid-rise apartments. The most convenient location for parents seeking housing within walking distance of the Oval and academic buildings.

Housing MixSingle-family homes, duplexes, mid-rise apartments, and converted student rentals

Best FitParents and students prioritizing walk-to-campus convenience and direct campus access

Watch ForHighest student density; rental turnover and noise considerations; limited parking

Review This Area

Tree-lined residential street with well-maintained homes in Clintonville, Columbus

Parent-Buyer Fit

Old North Columbus / Clintonville

43202 · Bike or short drive to campus

North of campus — Old North Columbus and Clintonville combine student-rental pockets with long-term owner-occupied neighborhoods. Popular with parents and investors who want a quieter setting with easy High Street corridor access to OSU.

Housing MixSingle-family homes, bungalows, and small apartment buildings in an established neighborhood

Best FitParents and investors seeking quieter streets, character homes, and strong resale appeal

Watch ForFurther from central campus; neighborhood character varies block by block

Review This Area

Attractive residential street in Grandview Heights near Ohio State with well-kept homes

Investor / Rental Demand

Grandview Heights / Fifth by Northwest

43212 · Short drive to campus

West of campus — Grandview Heights offers strong schools, walkable retail, and a premium housing stock. The Fifth by Northwest corridor provides a mix of condos, townhomes, and rentals with steady demand from graduate students, young professionals, and OSU staff.

Housing MixPremium single-family homes, condos, townhomes, and mid-rise apartments

Best FitParents prioritizing school quality and long-term value; investors targeting graduate-student and professional tenant demand

Watch ForHigher price points; Grandview schools boundary matters for parent-buyer decisions

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Spacious single-family home with large yard in Upper Arlington near Columbus

Value & Space

Upper Arlington / Northwest Columbus

43221 / 43220 · 10–15 minute drive to campus

Northwest of campus across the Olentangy River — Upper Arlington features top-rated schools, larger lots, and strong owner-occupancy. Popular with parent buyers who prioritize schools, space, and long-term appreciation over walk-to-campus proximity.

Housing MixEstablished single-family homes on larger lots with strong owner-occupancy

Best FitParents prioritizing school district quality, space, and long-term property value

Watch ForCommute time to campus; premium pricing in Upper Arlington school district

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Frequently Asked Questions

Should parents rent or buy near OSU?

OSU families should compare rent against ownership costs including mortgage, property tax, insurance, HOA dues, maintenance, and management. Most incoming first-year OSU students are required to live in university housing; exceptions may apply under OSU's published exemption policies. Off-campus housing decisions are therefore often most relevant for later undergraduate years, transfer students, exempt students, graduate students, parents planning a longer ownership period, and investors evaluating broader OSU-area demand. Columbus acquisition costs are generally more accessible than many other major-college markets. Confirm current housing policies directly with OSU Campus Living & Learning.

When can OSU students live off campus?

Most incoming first-year OSU students are required to live in university housing; exceptions may apply under OSU's published exemption policies. Off-campus housing is most commonly occupied by upper-division students, transfer students, exempt students, and graduate students. Approximately 65% of all undergraduates live off campus or commute. Families should confirm current housing policies directly with OSU Campus Living & Learning, as policies can change.

Can a parent rent extra bedrooms to other students near OSU?

Roommate rent contributions can offset a meaningful share of ownership costs, but several factors must be reviewed: HOA or subdivision rules may restrict renting to non-family members, Columbus occupancy limits, and rent-by-room leasing is common near OSU but should be reviewed with a local property manager. Landlord insurance is typically required. Roommate income is not guaranteed — plan conservatively.

Can an OSU-area rental be reviewed for DSCR financing?

DSCR loans may apply to OSU-area investment properties where projected rental income is reviewed against debt service per lender guidelines. Columbus price points may support more favorable rent-to-price ratios than higher-cost college markets, but each property's rental income, operating expenses, and DSCR threshold should be reviewed with a licensed loan officer familiar with central Ohio investment-property financing.

How important are HOA leasing restrictions near OSU?

HOA and subdivision restrictions vary widely near OSU. Many Columbus neighborhoods have fewer restrictions than major-metro condo buildings, but some communities cap rentals or require minimum lease periods. These rules can affect an investment strategy. Always read the covenants and confirm with the HOA board before committing.

Should an owner sell, refinance, or hold an OSU-area property?

OSU-area owners should evaluate current rental income, equity position, Columbus market conditions, refinancing options, and buyer-pool composition. The diverse Columbus market — parent buyers, investors, and owner-occupants — may support both sell and hold strategies. Each property is different — review with a licensed local real estate professional and loan officer.

Is CollegeHousing.ai affiliated with Ohio State University?

No. CollegeHousing.ai is an independent real estate and financing information platform. It is not affiliated with, endorsed by, sponsored by, or operated by Ohio State University.

Ready to Make a Smarter OSU Housing Decision?

Whether you're a parent evaluating rent vs. buy, an investor analyzing a student rental, or a seller reviewing exit options — run the numbers and connect with the local OSU team.

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