News Bites

Homebuyer Selection Drawing

A Drawing will be held for homes in the Village of Urbancrest on February 10th. Please direct anyone interested to our website.

Spring Cleanup

A Spring Cleanup is being planned for 2022. The area is TBD and will be based on participating homeowners' locations. Email and let us know if you are interested!

2nd Annual COCLT Homebuyer Appreciation Event

The Appreciation Event was held on December 2nd. We were pleased so many people were able to attend. Four homeowners won gift cards valued at $100, and all attendees received a $25 gift card. Many thanks to our sponsors for the financial support. COCLT staff provided information about the homeowner newsletters and the Welcome Home Portal, as well as previews of 2022 activities.

Understanding Your Property Taxes

Property taxes are levied and assessed by the Franklin County Auditor and paid to the Franklin County Treasurer in two installments per year.

As a taxpayer, you will either pay your property taxes directly to the Treasurer’s office or, more likely, through an escrow account (a designated portion of your monthly house payment) managed by the bank or mortgage company that finances your loan. You will receive a notice from your bank or mortgage company whenever there are any changes to your property taxes.

If you own a COCLT home in a tax abated area, remember the land is still subject to increases in property tax with new assessments by the County. Tax abatements for your home (the structure on the land) will end 15 years from the year you closed on your home and will be included in your tax bill in year 16.

Homeowner Tips

The Not So Fun Part of Snow

It's Ohio. We know to be prepared for snow and ice. If your concrete has not cured for at least a year, you should not use ice melting products. After that, it is best to use a blend of magnesium, calcium, and sodium chloride. Click here to see Columbus City Code requirements for snow and ice removal.

Ceiling Fans Aren't Just for Summer

Did you know there is a direction switch on your ceiling fan? In the winter, ceiling fans need to spin clockwise on low speed to create an updraft that moves the warm air near the ceiling down and around the room. Recirculating the warm air will help your heating unit run less often and save you money.

Protect Your Outdoor Planters

Clay pots should not be stored outdoors over winter. Because they are porous and retain some moisture, they are likely to crack as the moisture freezes and expands during the winter.