North Cincy News

The Real Estate Commissions of Ohio and Kentucky have reached an agreement to mutually recognize real estate licenses issued by each state again. This development comes after a temporary suspension of reciprocity caused by Ohio Senate Bill 131 in 2023. The new memorandum of understanding was finalized on April 25, 2025.

Under this agreement, licensed real estate professionals in either Ohio or Kentucky can obtain equivalent licenses in the neighboring state, provided they complete the relevant licensure or reciprocity requirements. Additionally, both states have agreed to work together on any investigations involving licensees holding licenses in both states. Disciplinary actions will be promptly reported by one state to the other. Both states maintain the right to deny license applications based on their respective legal grounds. The agreement allows for termination with 90 days written notice and will be assessed annually for performance.

DaVan Gassett, president of the REALTOR Alliance of Greater Cincinnati, expressed gratitude for the common ground found, saying, “We’re thrilled that the Real Estate Commissions in Ohio and Kentucky were able to find common ground and reestablish recognition for licensees that operate on both sides of the Ohio River.” He also thanked Ohio and Kentucky REALTORS for their efforts in securing the agreement, emphasizing its importance in serving the region’s consumers.

Ohio Senate Bill 131, which came into effect at the end of 2023, aimed to simplify the process for non-residents to engage in the Ohio real estate market. The bill required non-Ohio real estate professionals to undergo Ohio-specific training and examinations, ensuring consumer protections remained robust despite the reciprocity agreement.

The new accord between Ohio and Kentucky went into effect on April 25, 2025.