The Realize Team · Key Realty
Your family in real estate, across Summit County
Three sisters, one team, and a step by step plan for buying or selling through life's biggest changes.
Every deal gets all of us
Three sisters. One team. Your whole move.
Abby and Jessica are with you from the first phone call, and our sister Lauren keeps every deadline and document on track once you're under contract. One real estate fee, three professionals, and you're never handed off to a stranger.
How buyers find your home
Relevancy, recency, proximity
Three things decide whether marketing reaches the person who is actually ready to move. That's why this site has a page for each town and each situation, instead of one page trying to cover everything.
- Relevancy
- Written for one situation at a time. Someone downsizing after 30 years and someone buying their first home need different answers.
- Recency
- Kept current, with market numbers that carry a date, so you know what you're looking at.
- Proximity
- Specific to the street, not the county. Cuyahoga Falls, Northampton, Silver Lake, Bath and the neighborhoods inside them.
Our seller system
The E.P.I.C. system
Four steps on every home we sell, so you always know where you are and what comes next.
Equity
It starts with a Home Value Report at your home. We look at real comparable homes together, point out what helps or hurts your value, and leave you with an estimated net sheet.
Presentation
Your home at its best: the three Ds, staging, professional photography, video, drone, a virtual walkthrough, and detailed floor plans.
Impact
Your home in front of the buyers who are looking: neighborhood-focused ads, open houses, a website for your home, e-flyers to other agents, and Just Listed postcards to your neighborhood.
Campaign
A launch, not just a listing: a Coming Soon campaign, a full report every Monday and an update every Friday, and our Easy Exit Listing Agreement, so you are never locked in.
Buying instead?
The R.E.A.L. system
Real is in our name for a reason. We start by getting you ready to buy, so when the right home comes along, you can act on it.
Ready
Pre-approved first, so you know your buying power, and clear on what you actually want to spend within it.
Educated
Our buyer guide, our virtual buyer seminar, and a consultation that walks you through every step, A to Z, before you are in it.
Aligned
A search built on your goals, so you are the first to know when the right home comes on the market, and two schedules to get you in fast.
Locked
Offer strategy for competitive areas, the right inspections, the appraisal, and our sister Lauren keeping every deadline on track to closing.
The situation you are actually in
Different circumstances, different plans
The fundamentals don't change. The order, the timing, and how much coordination it takes can change completely. Start where you are.
01 / SELLING YOUR HOME
Priced right, prepared well, marketed to the buyers who are looking, with a full report every Monday and an update every Friday
02 / DOWNSIZING
A step by step plan for the stuff, the equity, the timing, and your next home
03 / SELLING A HOME DURING DIVORCE
Clear rules for communication and decisions from day one, and both owners kept equally informed
04 / PROBATE AND TRUST SALES
Extra planning for a loved one's home: the contents, the prep, and every decision maker kept in the loop
05 / PLANNING A FUTURE MOVE
Know what your home is worth today, what to do now, and get an updated Home Value Report every six months
06 / WHAT YOUR HOME IS WORTH
We meet at your home, compare it to real nearby sales, and estimate what you'd net
07 / BUYING A HOME
An A to Z plan: your goals, your buying power, a search that gets you in first, and a clear path to closing
08 / FIRST-TIME BUYERS
Know what happens next: pre-approval, earnest money, inspections, and everything after you find the home
17 areas. 13 situations. Three sisters who have done all of it before.
Where we work
The towns we serve
From the blog
Local market insight
2026-10-07 · 8 min read
What Does a Title Company Do When You Sell a House in Summit County, Ohio?
What a title company actually does when you sell a house in Summit County, Ohio, step by step, and the issues that most often slow a closing down.
2026-09-29 · 8 min read
Condo or Ranch Home for Downsizing in Summit County, Ohio
You have made the big decision. The house that raised your family is more house than your life needs now, and you are ready for something smaller.
2026-09-22 · 7 min read
How Much Does It Cost to Downsize in Summit County, Ohio?
Most people who are thinking about downsizing do the math in their head once, get nervous, and stop.
2026-09-22 · 6 min read
Multigenerational Living in Summit County, Ohio
More families across Summit County are landing on the same idea from different directions. Grown kids who need help with childcare and cannot afford two.
2026-09-21 · 6 min read
Should You Buy the House Next Door to Your Parents in Summit County, Ohio?
More families across Summit County are choosing to live next door to each other instead of under one roof.
2026-09-19 · 6 min read
What to Do With Your Parents' House in Summit County, Ohio
Inherited or deciding what to do with your parents' house in Summit County, Ohio? The Realize Team walks through every option, no pressure.
2026-08-26 · 13 min read
Summit County and Northeast Ohio Housing Market Update July 2026
If you have been watching the real estate market in Summit County and Northeast Ohio and wondering what July 2026 is telling us, the answer is more nuanced.
2026-08-19 · 12 min read
What Is a Seller's Market vs a Buyer's Market in Summit County, Ohio?
If you have been following real estate news or talking to anyone about buying or selling a home in Summit County, Ohio, you have almost certainly heard the.
2026-08-14 · 13 min read
What Happens at a Final Walkthrough in Summit County, Ohio?
What happens at a final walkthrough in Summit County? The Realize Team explains what to check and what to do if something is wrong.
2026-08-03 · 12 min read
What Is a CMA and How Is It Used to Price Your Home in Summit County, Ohio?
If you are thinking about selling your home in Summit County, Ohio, one of the first conversations you will have with a real estate agent is about pricing.
2026-07-27 · 9 min read
What Does the Summit County Ohio Property Reappraisal Mean for Your Taxes?
If you live in Summit County, Ohio, there is a good chance you have already opened your mailbox to find a letter showing your home's assessed value went up.
2026-07-27 · 17 min read
What Should a Seller Disclose in Ohio? Residential Property Disclosure Explained
What must Ohio sellers disclose? The Realize Team explains the Ohio property disclosure form section by section for Summit County sellers.
2026-07-24 · 17 min read
How to Move to Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio
Thinking about moving to Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio? The Realize Team shares everything you need to know about the community, the housing market, and how to find.
2026-07-24 · 13 min read
Things to Do in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio
Wondering what there is to do in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio? The Realize Team shares the festivals, parks, restaurants, and community experiences that make the.
2026-07-22 · 12 min read
How to Sell a House Fast in Summit County, Ohio
If you need to sell your house quickly in Summit County, Ohio, you are asking exactly the right question before you do anything else.Because selling fast.
2026-07-15 · 13 min read
Cuyahoga Falls Ohio Housing Market Update Summer 2026
What is the Cuyahoga Falls Ohio housing market doing in summer 2026? The Realize Team shares current local stats and what buyers and sellers need to know.
2026-07-15 · 14 min read
How to Make a Competitive Offer on a Home in Summit County, Ohio
If you are getting ready to make an offer on a home in Summit County, Ohio, you are approaching one of the most important moments in the entire buying.
2026-07-15 · 10 min read
Summit County Ohio Housing Market Update Summer 2026
What is the Summit County Ohio housing market doing in summer 2026? The Realize Team shares current local stats and what buyers and sellers need to know.
2026-07-14 · 11 min read
What Is Equity and How Does It Work in Real Estate? | The Realize Team Summit County Ohio
Wondering what home equity is and how it works? The Realize Team explains equity for buyers and sellers in Summit County, Ohio.
2026-05-27 · 12 min read
What Are Seller Concessions and How Do They Work in Summit County, Ohio?
Wondering what seller concessions are in Summit County, Ohio? The Realize Team explains how they work for buyers and sellers.
2026-05-11 · 12 min read
What Is a Home Appraisal and How Does It Work in Summit County, Ohio?
If you are buying or selling a home in Summit County, Ohio, the home appraisal is one of the most important and most misunderstood steps in the entire.
2026-05-06 · 11 min read
What Is a Home Inspection and Why Does It Matter in Summit County, Ohio?
If you are buying or selling a home in Summit County, Ohio, the home inspection is one of the most important steps in the entire process.And yet it is also.
2026-05-04 · 11 min read
How to Buy and Sell at the Same Time in Summit County, Ohio
Trying to buy and sell a home at the same time in Summit County, Ohio? The Realize Team shares strategies and guidance to help you coordinate both sides of.
2026-05-01 · 11 min read
Is Summit County, Ohio a Good Place to Retire?
Wondering if Summit County, Ohio is a good place to retire? The Realize Team shares an honest look at the advantages, considerations, and what retirement.
2026-04-30 · 12 min read
What to Look for When Touring a Home in Summit County, Ohio
Not sure what to look for when touring a home in Summit County, Ohio? The Realize Team shares a practical guide to help buyers evaluate every home with.
2026-04-29 · 12 min read
First-Time Homebuyer Guide for Summit County, Ohio
Buying your first home in Summit County, Ohio? The Realize Team walks you through every step of the process so you can move forward with clarity and confidence.
2026-04-29 · 8 min read
Is Now a Good Time to Buy in Summit County, Ohio?
Wondering if now is a good time to buy in Summit County, Ohio? The Realize Team explains what buyers should consider before making a move.
2026-04-29 · 11 min read
What Is a Contingency in Real Estate in Summit County, Ohio?
Wondering what a contingency is in real estate in Summit County, Ohio? The Realize Team explains how contingencies work and why they matter for buyers and.
2026-04-28 · 10 min read
How Long Does It Take to Buy a Home in Summit County, Ohio?
Wondering how long it takes to buy a home in Summit County, Ohio? The Realize Team breaks down the full timeline from pre-approval through closing day.
2026-04-28 · 12 min read
How to Choose a Real Estate Agent in Summit County, Ohio
Wondering how to choose a real estate agent in Summit County, Ohio? The Realize Team shares what to look for, what questions to ask, and what red flags to.
2026-04-23 · 10 min read
What Is Earnest Money and How Does It Work in Summit County, Ohio?
Wondering what earnest money is and how it works in Summit County, Ohio? The Realize Team explains everything buyers and sellers need to know about earnest.
2026-04-23 · 10 min read
What to Expect on Closing Day in Summit County, Ohio
Wondering what happens on closing day in Summit County, Ohio? The Realize Team walks buyers and sellers through exactly what to expect from start to finish.
2026-04-21 · 9 min read
Should You Buy or Rent in Summit County, Ohio?
Trying to decide whether to buy or rent in Summit County, Ohio? The Realize Team breaks down both sides honestly so you can make the right choice for your.
2026-04-21 · 11 min read
What Happens After Your Offer Is Accepted in Summit County, Ohio?
Wondering what happens after your offer is accepted in Summit County, Ohio? The Realize Team walks you through every step from accepted offer to closing day.
2026-04-17 · 11 min read
What Closing Costs Should Buyers Expect in Summit County, Ohio?
Wondering what closing costs buyers pay in Summit County, Ohio? The Realize Team breaks down every cost so you can plan your budget with confidence.
2026-04-16 · 10 min read
What Closing Costs Should Sellers Expect in Summit County, Ohio?
Wondering what closing costs sellers pay in Summit County, Ohio? The Realize Team breaks down every cost so you can plan your net proceeds with confidence.
2026-04-14 · 11 min read
What Adds the Most Value Before Selling a House in Summit County, Ohio?
Wondering what actually adds value before selling in Summit County, Ohio? The Realize Team breaks down what improvements are worth making and what to skip.
2026-04-11 · 12 min read
Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio Housing Market Update 2026
What is the Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio housing market doing in 2026? The Realize Team shares current local stats and what buyers and sellers need to know right now.
2026-04-09 · 9 min read
How Fast Can You Sell a House in Summit County, Ohio?
Wondering how fast you can sell a house in Summit County, Ohio? The Realize Team shares current market data and what actually determines how quickly your.
2026-04-09 · 8 min read
Is Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio a Good Place to Live?
Wondering if Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio is a good place to live? The Realize Team was born and raised there and still calls it home.
2026-04-09 · 6 min read
Pros and Cons of Living in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio
Thinking about moving to Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio? The Realize Team was born and raised there and shares an honest look at the pros and cons of living in this.
2026-04-07 · 11 min read
How to Sell Your Home in Summit County, Ohio
Thinking about selling your home in Summit County, Ohio? The Realize Team walks you through every step of the process so you can sell with clarity and.
2026-04-07 · 10 min read
Moving to Summit County, Ohio? Watch This First
Thinking about moving to Summit County, Ohio? The Realize Team shares what you need to know about the area, the market, and the communities before you make.
2026-04-06 · 10 min read
How Much House Can You Afford in Summit County, Ohio?
Wondering how much house you can afford in Summit County, Ohio? The Realize Team breaks down what actually determines your budget and what your money can buy.
2026-04-03 · 9 min read
Biggest Mistakes Buyers Make in Summit County, Ohio
Avoid the most common buyer mistakes in Summit County, Ohio. The Realize Team shares what buyers should watch for before purchasing a home.
2026-04-03 · 9 min read
Biggest Mistakes Sellers Make in Summit County, Ohio
Avoid the most common seller mistakes in Summit County, Ohio. The Realize Team shares what sellers should watch for before listing their home.
2026-04-02 · 13 min read
Summit County Ohio Housing Market Update 2026
What is the Summit County Ohio housing market doing in 2026? The Realize Team shares current stats and what buyers and sellers need to know right now.
2026-04-01 · 8 min read
Best Neighborhoods in Summit County, Ohio
Looking for the best neighborhoods in Summit County, Ohio? The Realize Team breaks down what each area offers to help you find the right fit.
2026-03-30 · 8 min read
Can I Sell My House As-Is in Summit County, Ohio?
Can you sell a house as-is in Summit County, Ohio? The Realize Team explains what it means, how pricing works, and what sellers should know.
2026-03-30 · 8 min read
Pros and Cons of Living in Summit County, Ohio
Thinking about living in Summit County, Ohio? The Realize Team breaks down the honest pros and cons to help you decide if this is the right area for your.
2026-03-30 · 8 min read
The Pros and Cons of Selling a Home in Summit County, Ohio
Thinking about selling a home in Summit County, Ohio? The Realize Team breaks down the pros and cons to help you decide what makes sense.
2026-03-28 · 8 min read
Is Now a Good Time to Sell in Summit County, Ohio?
Wondering if now is a good time to sell in Summit County, Ohio? The Realize Team explains what sellers should consider before making a move.
2026-03-26 · 7 min read
Downsizing Checklist for Homeowners in Summit County, Ohio
Need a downsizing checklist in Summit County, Ohio? The Realize Team shares practical steps to make your move feel more manageable.
2026-03-26 · 8 min read
What Sellers Need to Know Before Listing in Summit County, Ohio
Thinking about listing your house in Summit County, Ohio? The Realize Team shares what sellers should know before putting a home on the market.
2026-03-25 · 9 min read
How to Price Your Home to Sell in Summit County, Ohio
Wondering how to price your home in Summit County, Ohio? The Realize Team explains what matters most when listing your house to sell.
2026-03-24 · 9 min read
Best Time to Sell a House in Summit County, Ohio
Wondering when to sell your house in Summit County, Ohio? The Realize Team explains what timing factors matter most for local sellers.
2026-03-24 · 8 min read
How to Sell a Longtime Family Home in Summit County, Ohio
Selling a longtime family home in Summit County, Ohio? The Realize Team shares practical steps to make the process feel more manageable.
2026-03-23 · 8 min read
What Is My Home Worth in Summit County, Ohio?
Wondering what your home is worth in Summit County, Ohio? The Realize Team explains what affects home value and how to price with confidence.
2026-03-18 · 8 min read
How to Prepare Your House to Sell in Summit County, Ohio
Getting ready to sell in Summit County, Ohio? The Realize Team shares practical tips to help you prepare your house and list with confidence.
2026-03-18 · 8 min read
What Should You Fix Before Selling a House in Summit County, Ohio?
Not sure what to fix before listing in Summit County, Ohio? The Realize Team shares what repairs matter most before selling your house.
2026-03-17 · 11 min read
How to Downsize Without Feeling Overwhelmed in Summit County, Ohio
New Thinking about downsizing in Summit County, Ohio? The Realize Team shares practical steps to simplify the process and move forward with clarity and.
2026-03-17 · 9 min read
Should You Sell First or Buy First in Summit County, Ohio?
If you are planning a move in Summit County, Ohio, one of the biggest questions is often.
Who We Are
We're The Realize Team at Key Realty, a Summit County real estate team of three sisters, and every deal gets all of us. Abby and Jessica are with you from the first phone call, and our sister Lauren takes over the paperwork, the deadlines, and every closing detail once you're under contract. One real estate fee, three professionals, and you're never handed off to a stranger.
We were born and raised in Cuyahoga Falls, and we're based in Akron and Cuyahoga Falls. We help buyers and sellers through life's biggest moves: downsizing after decades in one home, trading up, buying a first home, or planning a move a year or two out. We make the suggestions. You make the decisions.
Request my Home Value Report
Areas We Serve
We specialize in Summit County and serve all of Northeast Ohio, including Cuyahoga Falls and Northampton, Akron, Stow, Hudson, Fairlawn (where our office is), Bath, Silver Lake, Munroe Falls, Tallmadge, Green, Portage Lakes, Norton, Barberton, Macedonia, Twinsburg, and North Canton.
How We Market Homes
Every home we sell runs on our E.P.I.C. system. It starts with a Home Value Report at your home. Then we get the home ready with the three Ds and light staging at no additional cost, and present it with professional photography, video, drone, and floor plans. We put it in front of buyers with neighborhood-focused ads, open houses, a website for your home, and e-flyers to other agents. You get a full report every Monday and an update every Friday, and our Easy Exit Listing Agreement means you're never locked in. See selling your home.
Buying With Us
Buyers get our R.E.A.L. system: pre-approval first, a buyer consultation and our buyer guide and video seminar, search alerts so you're first to know, and an offer strategy that holds up in a fast market. See buying a home and our guide for first-time buyers.
What Clients Say
We're rated 4.7 stars on Google across 13 reviews, and we've been a Top Producer at Key Realty every quarter for the past four years. The best compliment we get is when clients come back for their next move, or send us their family.
Start Here: Buying or Selling in Summit County
Selling? Start with a Home Value Report. Buying? Start with a buyer consultation. Either way, talk with The Realize Team or call (234) 200-6477, and we'll tell you exactly what happens next. Your Summit County real estate team is ready when you are.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is on The Realize Team?
Three sisters: Abby Smith and Jessica Isakov, both REALTORS®, and Lauren Rafferty, our transaction coordinator. Every deal gets all of us.
Where is your office?
At 3040 West Market Street in Fairlawn. We're based in Akron and Cuyahoga Falls and serve all of Northeast Ohio.
What areas do you serve?
We specialize in Summit County, including Cuyahoga Falls, Akron, Stow, Hudson, Fairlawn, Bath, and more, and serve all of Northeast Ohio.
Thinking about a move?
Let's figure out your next step together. No pressure.