Today we’d like to introduce you to Nickie Huff.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I grew up in a small-town called Utica, Ohio, where life taught me early to be strong, independent, and grateful for what I had. I became a mom at sixteen and still managed to graduate high school a year early with the help of my mom and a few amazing teachers who believed in me. Thank you Mr Baker! That experience taught me that with determination and faith, you can overcome just about anything.
Before real estate, I spent 24 years as a paramedic. That career shaped a huge part of who I am — it taught me how to stay calm in chaos, how to listen, and how to care for people on their worst days. Serving others became second nature, and I carry that same mindset into everything I do today. “From saving lives to changing lives- one home at a time.”
Over the years, I’ve worn a lot of hats — from raising animals and running small businesses to helping others build their dreams — but real estate became my next chapter. I fell in love with helping families find homes where they could feel safe, start fresh, and build new memories.
Today, I work with eXp Realty, focusing on the Buckeye Lake and Thornville area. I love where I live and enjoy showing others the beauty and community we have here. I also stay involved locally, organizing events and helping with nonprofits like John’s Helping Hands, which supports homeless veterans.
Looking back, every step — from my time as a paramedic to being a young mom — led me right here. I’m proud of where I came from and even more grateful for where I’m going.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road, but I think that’s what built my strength and shaped who I am today. I had my first son at sixteen and my second son at nineteen, so I had to grow up fast and figure out how to keep going when life got hard. There were times when it felt like everything was stacked against me, but quitting was never an option.
My years as a paramedic brought their own set of challenges. People don’t always see what goes into that career — the long hours, constant training, and the sacrifices you make to do the job right. There were holidays I missed with my family, dinners I didn’t get to finish because the fire pager went off, and countless sleepless nights that came with the responsibility of caring for others. It’s not an easy life, but it’s one that taught me dedication, compassion, and how to stay steady when things get tough.
Between raising a family, working full-time, and chasing new goals, there were plenty of financial struggles and moments of exhaustion. But I learned that strength doesn’t come from things being easy — it comes from showing up, even when it’s hard. Every setback became a lesson, and every challenge prepared me for where I am today.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m a REALTOR® with eXp Realty, serving Buckeye Lake, Thornville, and the surrounding areas. I specialize in residential properties — everything from first-time homebuyers to investors and families looking for their next chapter. I love helping people not only find a house but a place that truly feels like home.
My inspiration to get into real estate came after my husband and I were taken advantage of by another agent. It was a tough experience, but it taught me exactly how I didn’t want my clients to feel. My husband told me I could do better, and that’s what pushed me to get licensed. He was right — I found a career where I could take my passion for helping people and turn it into something meaningful.
After 24 years as a paramedic, I was used to high-pressure situations and caring for people in some of the most stressful moments of their lives. That background carries over into real estate — I know how to stay calm, communicate clearly, and put others first.
What I’m most proud of is the trust my clients place in me. I treat every transaction like it’s my own, and I believe in being honest, transparent, and dependable. What sets me apart isn’t just my experience — it’s the heart I put into my work. For me, real estate isn’t about closing deals; it’s about building relationships, helping people through big life transitions, and being someone they can truly count on.
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
What I love most about our area is the sense of community. Around Buckeye Lake and Thornville, people still wave when they pass by, look out for each other, and come together when someone needs a hand. There’s something special about small-town Ohio — the mix of lake life, local businesses, and neighbors who truly care. It’s a great place to raise a family, build a business, and enjoy the outdoors.
What I like least is seeing the lack of affordable housing options for some families who want to stay here but struggle to find something within their budget. Growth is exciting, but I wish we had more balance — more homes and opportunities for people at all stages of life. I’m passionate about being part of that change and helping create communities where everyone has a chance to belong.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.buckeyelake.homes
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OHREAgent
- Other: https://cht.hifello.com/p/nickiehuff/691235846a0709b76671c1cb
