The Midwest continues to solidify its position as one of the most dynamic real estate regions in the country, with Ohio and Indiana emerging as standout markets fueled by rapid growth, shifting demographics, and evolving buyer expectations. As these states attract new residents, investors, and businesses, a new generation of real estate professionals, alongside established industry veterans, is setting a higher bar for expertise, innovation, and results.
In 2025, the real estate landscape in both states is defined by professionals who combine local market mastery with modern tools, high-impact marketing, and a relentless commitment to serving clients at the highest level.
Ohio
Aiden Avtgis
In the fast-paced world of real estate, Avtgis and Associates is redefining what it means to be at the top in Northeast Ohio. Founded and led by Aiden Avtgis, Ohio’s youngest real estate team leader, this dynamic group of seven agents, all aged 21 or under, is shaking up the industry with a modern, high-energy approach to sales, service, and success. In just three years, Avtgis has closed over 120 deals and $20 million in volume within 2.5 years, an extraordinary milestone that underscores his ambition and discipline.
Avtgis’s journey into real estate was fueled by a desire to escape the traditional nine-to-five grind and pursue high-ticket sales through a relentless work ethic and innovation. As one of the youngest Zillow Flex Team Leaders in the world, Aiden has proven that age is no barrier to achievement. His team’s focus on real relationships, client education, and round-the-clock availability has positioned them among the top real estate professionals in Ohio, driven by authenticity, not convention.
Beyond record-breaking numbers, Aiden’s mission is to empower others. Through his co-owned real estate school, he trains future agents and investors, sharing the same strategies that propelled him to success. “we aren’t your average realtor.” Avtgis says. “We’re boots-on-the-ground professionals — young, hungry, and driven.” That drive and success have earned him recognition as Ohio’s top realtor to watch in 2025, and it’s clear his rise is only just beginning.
Michael Bishop
With more than two decades of experience in Central Ohio’s housing market, Michael is known as “the cooler Real Estate Agent.” He brings technical insight and economic acumen to his work. The cooler reference is about a typical gift for clients, a cooler. Based in New Albany and serving a 60-mile radius around Columbus, Michael represents buyers and sellers across Franklin, Delaware, Licking, and surrounding counties. His background spans nine years in new home construction and over eleven years as a licensed Realtor with Howard Hanna Real Estate Services, giving him an understanding of everything from home and condo listings and sales to lot, land, and acreage sales, as well as multi-family investments.
What sets Michael apart among top real estate agents in Ohio is his data-driven and hands-on approach. He goes into basements, crawl spaces, and inspects the furnace, AC, and electric panel; he’ll even get on the roof at times.
He also combines market analytics with a mechanical understanding of homes, often spotting potential structural or maintenance issues before clients even step inside. Known for using tools like drone footage and detailed property videos, Michael ensures every listing is seen in its best light while every buyer makes an informed decision grounded in data and detail. Michael’s results speak for themselves.
From helping first-time buyers secure homes in competitive markets to selling a historic 6,000-square-foot mansion in Coshocton that had previously stumped multiple agents, his methodical, transparent approach has earned client trust and repeat business. Through his signature motto — “Buy, Sell, Have Fun & Know the Numbers!” — Michael continues to redefine what it means to be a thoughtful, client-first Realtor in Central Ohio.
Indiana
Carrie Smith
With over 20 years of experience and deep roots in her hometown, Carrie Smith has established herself as one of the most trusted names in Terre Haute real estate. As the founder of The Carrie Smith Real Estate Group at Gibson Real Estate, she leads a dedicated five-person team serving Terre Haute, Brazil, Sullivan, Clinton, and Rockville.
Carrie possesses extensive expertise in both residential and commercial real estate, is a Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist and GUILD member, the only one in her area, and leverages her specialized knowledge as a Seniors Real Estate Specialist. Her commitment to integrity and service is noticed and expressed in her guiding principles: “Abide by the Golden Rule and do what you say you’re going to do. Have grit, do the work; stay the course. It’s that simple! Everything will come full circle.”
What distinguishes Carrie as a leading real estate agent in Terre Haute is her unwavering focus on people. Renowned for her resilience and warmth, she approaches each transaction with care and personal accountability, often forging lifelong friendships with her clients.
Whether dealing with luxury estates or first homes, she ensures that every buyer and seller feels valued, supported, and understood. It is truly a client-centered transaction, as each one is handled with care in the best interest of those Carrie is working for. Her small-town perspective enables her to welcome newcomers to Terre Haute, helping them embrace the community’s spirit while connecting them with trusted local vendors.
Carrie is a graduate of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College, and her career began after transitioning from a teaching role in special education, a decision motivated by her desire to help others in a one-on-one environment. Her first real estate sale, an emotionally shaken widow’s home that went under contract in just two days during a slow market, remains a defining moment in her career, showcasing her creativity and determination to facilitate a swift transaction.
Today, that same compassion and faith continue to drive her success as she builds community, one home at a time.
To learn more about Carrie’s work, market insights, and community involvement, follow her professional journey across her social media platforms: Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram.
The Best There Is
Together, the top real estate professionals featured from Ohio and Indiana reflect the remarkable talent driving the Midwest’s housing markets forward in 2025. Their varied backgrounds, ranging from rapidly rising young innovators to highly knowledgeable industry veterans, demonstrate the depth and diversity of expertise shaping the region’s real estate landscape. What unites them is a shared dedication to transparency, client advocacy, and results that consistently exceed expectations.
