Bellbrook embodies the changing of the seasons, and it is precisely this changing of the seasons -- in all its glory -- that inspired two of the town's most famous native children, the world-famous essayist Erma Bombeck and the delightfully insightful comedian Jonathon Winters.
The city of Bellbrook only became an incorporated city in 1974
Bellbrook embodies the changing of the seasons, and it is precisely this changing of the seasons -- in all its glory -- that inspired two of the town's most famous native children, the world-famous essayist Erma Bombeck and the delightfully insightful comedian Jonathon Winters.
The city of Bellbrook only became an incorporated city in 1974. Thus, it still retains that small town feel, so very close to nature. This small town feel is enhanced by the sugar maple trees that spring up from every bit of soil, and for which the town's creek, Little Sugar Creek, was named. Furthermore, the Sugarcreek metropolitan park runs right through town. Why so concerned with sugar maples? The changing of the colors, that's why! If you've never seen the fiery reds and oranges exploding from the leaves of a sugar maple coming the fall color changing season, well, you have not truly experienced to the glory of nature. Bellbrook's sturdy Midwestern ethos sings loud and clear through the works of these world renowned artists. It's as if Bellbrook's charms have gone on to charm the entire rest of the world.
Bellbrook marches to the beat of its own drum, but still fits right in the solid midwestern vibe that defines Ohio. Dayton, which is currently experiencing a resurgence, is only a short drive away, but it feels like worlds away. Bellbrook, while serviced by Interstate 675, sits mostly off the freeway and retains the small-town feel that so many cherish. It's easy to see why! A town like Bellbrook is the perfect place to live a simple, clean, responsible life. Well, that's what folks say, anyway. In all seriousness, though, Bellbrook seems to be the epitome of midwestern friendliness and folksy charm.
Renting
The market for rental homes is fairly strong in Bellbrook, with an average monthly rent hovering around the national average. That's good news for you!
Getting into the rental housing of your choice is not so simple as merely showing up and being handed the key, however. By following a fairly simple process, you can ensure that the property you want will be yours. First off, you should find a copy of your credit report. This can be retrieved online, usually for a small fee. Not much! It won't hurt too badly and will greatly increase your chances of immediately getting the rental you want.
Secondly, you will want a copy of your most recent pay stubs. If you don't have those on hand, you can always make a copy of last year's tax return. The idea here is that you can demonstrate to your potential landlord that, yes, you DO make money. Landlords find this important; go figure! Thirdly, you will want a list of your previous landlords, with names, phone numbers, and email addresses if you have them. Apparently, landlords love chatting with other landlords. And no, they are not cackling in evil overtones and twirling their mustaches! They simply want to know that you were a good tenant and will hold up your end of the bargain when it comes to renting a home.
Most of the action in Bellbrook centers along West Franklin Street, where you'll find commerce and dining options. It is in the blocks just north and south of Franklin Street that you'll find most of your residential rental and purchase options. The neighborhoods follow along small creeks, so get ready for a taste of nature right in your own neighborhood.
West Bellbrook: Wilmington Pike runs from north to south, taking you down from Interstate 675 to the Sugarcreek Metro Park. Wilmington Pike is Bellbrook's western border, while on its eastern border you'll find the Little Miami River and Washington Mill Park. Most of the city's housing stock, including apartment rentals and houses, is situated in the western portion of town. The eastern end is devoted more to commerce, running along Main Street (but of course!).
North Bellbrook: Ah yes, let's not forget the northern area of town as well! We wouldn't want the northern portion to get jealous, now would we? Yes, the northern portion, pushing up toward interstate 675, also has a sizable share of housing for rent and purchase. So whether you are looking for a cozy little studio apartment for rent in Bellbrook or prefer a spacious house, you should check out one of these neighborhoods for best results.
Bellbrook is thriving, particularly in relation to the rest of Ohio. People do well here, meaning they seem to be happy and able to stay busy with community activities. For example, the Lions Clubs festival comes along every August, and it's a major draw and focal point of the community. Civic pride is not dead yet, America! In fact, Bellbrook is leading the way with its homegrown festivals (the aforementioned Lions Club festival, the Canal festival), historic buildings, and more.
Down by Sugar Creek, you'll find the oh-so-nice Brookview Swim and Tennis Club, a perfect place to unwind after a day's work, or perhaps a perfect place to hang out locally on the weekend. Just a bit upstream, you'll find Spring Lake Park, a fantastic recreational area for anyone interested in getting acquainted with nature. Most, if not all, of the town's approximately 7,000 inhabitants will find themselves at Spring Lake Park sooner or later.
Bellbrook is quite simply a taste of the country for those who've tired of the hustle and bustle of Dayton proper. It's still close enough so that you can easily head to town for an exciting movie and frozen yogurt outing. But you'll feel at ease out here in the country, where life slows down and the many creeks and sugar maple trees will welcome you with open arms, every single gosh-darned time you come home. Bellbrook is just, you know, welcoming like that.
A taste of the country, and yet right on the outskirts of a major metropolitan area. Sounds good, right? What else could you ask for? A diamond mine, you say? Well, lucky you! There is such a mine in Bellbrook, but it happens to be inside the hearts and minds of its inhabitants, where you'll find honest, hard working, loving people living close to the land.
