Common Defects - Jul 17 01:05 AM
Help your Seller with 10 Common Defects
We all have had those last minute issues pop up just before closing that could cost our seller the sale they so desperately need to make happen. Why is it that so many homeowners are unfamiliar with some of the most common problems that exist with a home?
Okay, the seller lives in their home day in an out and they don't see the little issues that become bigger problems; they just ...
|
Building a New Home: 3 Critical Construction Components - Mar 26 10:23 PM
3 Critical Construction Components in Building a New Home
I was talking to my father this weekend as we were working on my son's home, remodeling his basement with a new bathroom and utility room. During our casual conversations, I mentioned to my father that I was putting this blog together to share information about new home building and one of the first words out of my father's mouth was the 3 critical construction components of building a new ...
|
Real Estate Tips: Free Publicity - Apr 18 11:25 PM
Seven Ways to Snag Free PublicityI came across this information on Free Publicity, I agree with points 1-5, however, 6 and 7 require more talent, understand and information. You can get hurt or shine in the last two steps. You should contact professional assistance in conquering these steps if for no other reason than to get information on what it takes to put these together and succeed at it."Publicity is a great way to get your business ...
|
Determining a Market Niche? - May 02 10:39 PM
What is your Marketing Niche?
How many of us real estate professionals (if we are honest) have focused our marketing efforts too broadly? Then we wonder why we have such little success. The solution? Determine and develop your niche market. Niche marketing is the process of focusing on a defined segment of a much larger market.
So, how do you develop your niche?
Step 1: Identify what you do best, your niche. If you are unsure of what this is, ...
|
Flipping Houses? - Jun 03 12:15 AM
Are you interested in Flipping Houses?
I grew up in a construction and building environment where my father has either bought, remodeled or built about 75% of the homes in the small town he lives in (about 7,000 population). I have had the privilege of working with him and I have seen him put in 14-15 hour days and be available to people in need whenever they call him. I have learned a great deal from my ...
|
How to Raise your Credit Scores - Dec 08 08:18 PM
1. GET RID OF YOUR COLLECTION ACCOUNTS.
Did you know that paying a collection account can actually reduce your score? Here's why: credit scoring software reviews credit reports for each account's date of last activity to determine the impact it will have on the overall credit score. When payment is made on a collection account, collection agencies update credit bureaus to reflect the account status as "Paid Collection". When this happens, the date of last activity becomes ...
|
Where Do you Vacation? - Jun 16 10:37 PM
Vacation Points of Interest!
Well, it's that time of year when we all are thinking about taking some time away to spend with family, friends or just getting away from the daily grind here like my home here in Olathe, Kansas!!
So it started me thinking about where would we like to go this year? Hawaii, is always one of our first choices (we love Kauai), but not always within the budget to go. Yosemite National Park is ...
|
The Importance of Investing In Real Estate in Kansas City - Sep 25 12:38 PM
None of us is promised tomorrow. And the importance of investing in real estate here in Kansas City, or anywhere really, was driven home to me yesterday afternoon while reading about a young father of 24 who lost his life in a tragic automobile accident. A young, newly widowed mother of two is left to pick up the pieces and move forward.
Do you remember twenty-four? You thought you had lived. But you hadn't. You thought you ...
|
Building a New Home: Doorless Showers - Jun 20 11:17 PM
European Concepts in New Home Designs
I have to be honest, when my wife and I were looking at new homes, I started noticing a trend of open showers, multiple shower heads and doorless showers. I have to admit, I like a warm shower and the thought of a doorless shower just didn't give me a warm and fuzzy feeling. However, my wife insisted that we look at these European type showers. So I decided to do some research ...
|
Real Estate Tips: Who will Enter? - Jun 12 11:13 PM
The Entrance to your Home is Critical Homeowners that have lived in their homes for a long period in time tend to overlook simple cosmetic flaws and buyer obstacles. In fact, they may not even notice that crack in the wall or the ripped screen in the bedroom window, but new potential buyers will, they will make their minds up in the first 10 seconds of seeing the seller's home!
It's these little things that will make ...
|
Fix It and Flip It! - Jun 04 10:05 PM
Fix it and Flip it Strategy
As a continuation to my Flipping Houses? post, I wanted to share an article that I think warrants review. Dan Auito, author of "Complete Home Rehab in 10 Days," says that in order to succeed in Fix & Flips, "You must be somewhat of an appraiser and deal finder." For most of us in real estate, it takes time to recruit a team of professionals. If you are like me, you feel you ...
|
Real Estate Investor Interview - Jun 25 07:58 AM
Today I would like to fully introduce you to a real estate investor client of mine even though modesty on his part has restricted me giving you his full name. I have worked for Al S. for a little longer than a year now.When you read his answers to these real estate investing questions please notice that his whole economic picture today is more comfortable than most people's. And he didn't own hundreds of income properties. ...
|
Real Estate Tips: Cheap and Easy! - Jun 16 09:54 PM
Cheap and Easy?!
I was reading an article on Four Cheap and Easy Upgrades to your Home and as I thought about this article, I couldn't help but think that I wouldn't classify these four things as "Cheap and Easy". However, I thought I would do my due diligence and ask you? What do you think?
Here's the article from MarketWatch, written by Marshall Loeb.
** Quote:NEW YORK (MarketWatch) -- If your house sorely needs a makeover, but remodeling is beyond ...
|
Building a New Home: Hottest Trend - May 21 10:57 PM
The Hottest trend in New Home Construction
Here is Kansas City, we have a over built market of new homes. One builder in Kansas City has over 200 new homes on the market. Now that's a lot of inventory and leverage!!
The incentives for new home builders has been amazing for home buyers. There's a builder who was putting a new BMW in the garage of the new home buyer! I've seen furniture, discounts, concession on amenities like upgrades to ...
|
So You Want to Flip Houses? - Sep 03 11:03 PM
I met a lovely couple this week that are eager to flip houses. Seems like a good idea, right? It depends.... on a lot of things.
Here are a few questions that I ask new clients who entertain the idea of fix-n-flip
What is your projected ROI?What is your projected profit margin?What is your budget?Who is going to do the work?Are they/you qualified?Do you plan on pulling permits?Will you have a home inspection prior to closing?What is your ...
|
Need a Vacation, but can't stay away? - Jul 19 11:56 PM
Do you take your notebook with you on vacation?
So you've had enough and now it's time to get away for a vacation. What does your family think when you pack the computer? Will you be on vacation and out of touch? If you are like most of us entrepreneurs, we just can't seem to break away from the tether attached to our brain and the office, so we decide to bring along the computer.
If this sounds ...
|
Home Trends, So What's In? - May 30 09:08 PM
Home Trends and the Current Market
With all the new homes built and on the market, have builders decided to change and meet the desires of the buyers? Last month (April 2007) had the biggest increase in new single family home sales in quite a while. According to the US Census, there was a 16.2 percent increase. The median sales price of new houses sold in April 2007 was $229,100; the average sales price was $299,100. When you adjust this for ...
|
Sprint Lay's Off 7-10,000! - Jan 10 06:20 PM
Sprint looks like the hard times will be falling directly on its current employees in around 3 weeks! Rumor has it they are looking to lay off 7-10,000 employees, including 30%of their VP's.
This could not have come at a worse time for the Kansas City Marketplace due to many stagnant properties that have been on the market for a long period of time, and a ton of over leveraged homeowners whose Adjustable Rate Mortgages are ...
|
The Story of Mother's Day - May 12 11:31 PM
Okay we all know Mother's Day is here!
What have we done to show for it? We may have sent our wive's and mother's flowers, called them, taken them out for a special meal, but have we really told them that we love them? What does that mean to us or more importantly to them? Have we thought about trying to keep this same spirit of respect we have for them for more than this one day? Do we think about them through-out the year? Don't they deserve ...
|
Credit Repair: The Truth About What Can and Cannot be Done - Dec 09 10:02 AM
Contrary to what the credit bureaus would like you to believe, credit repair does work and can work for 100% of people in most circumstances. This is, of course, provided you are getting the best advice and have an experienced professional working on your case.Any one with a credit score below 720 can benefit long-term from the advice and information provided through credit repair; however, there are times when your own limitations make adhering to this ...
|
Building a New Home: Tankless Water Heaters - May 22 11:11 PM
Tankless Water Heaters, Are they worth it!
Okay, I had a friend ask me about tankless hot water heaters and I need some feedback from anyone who might have some personal experience either as a user, installer or builder.
Here's what I have read or heard. Tankless water heaters have an endless supply of hot water (but do they provide instant hot water) and they can save energy (but do they really, if you have an unlimited ...
|
Treasure Hunting Thrills Me!! - Sep 03 09:43 PM
Did you ever hope to find a buried treasure when you were a kid? I did! And, I still do!! I have always been fascinated with searching for things... the end of the rainbow, a leprachaun's pot of gold, hidden treasures under creaky floor boards and back yard stashes of money in old canning jars. I devoured Nancy Drew mysteries and imagined that someday I'd be a great sleuth just like her.
When I discovered Geo Caching last ...
|
Technology in Real Estate: iPhone - May 28 03:33 PM
The New Apple iPhone - PDA Phone
Currently, I use a PDA phone, the Palm Treo 700wx (windows version) and have used the Treo 650p and 600p (Palm versions) in the past. I like the ability to have my emails, messaging, calendar and contact database available to me without the need for my notebook. I have also used the motorola razor and a few other models, but really like the Treo. That is until the new iPhone.
When Apple annouced the iPhone a ...
|
Color in Staging - Grape and Green! - Apr 25 10:51 PM
What are you doing to sell your home quicker and for more money?
Okay, I'm a guy, but I do like color and the color of the exterior and interior of a home matters. I live in Olathe, Kansas in Johnson County and there is a standard response I hear when it comes to "What color do I paint my walls? or What color of carpet should we purchase? The standard response I hear is use Johnson County biege! Walls, ...
|
Surprise, Surprise! - Dec 04 11:17 AM
It is not that bad out there after all. When you meet someone new they always ask, what do you do for a living? When I tell them that I am a realtor the next question is always, how's the market? Now I have been very consistent on my views of the market. I have been touting what a great move-up market this is and to not believe everything you read in the media. Well today I ...
|
Kansas City Water Garden Tours - Jul 13 11:56 PM
Kansas City host 14th Annual Water Garden Tours
Kansas City has been on a campaign to create water and rain gardens throughout the Kansas City area over the past three of four years and it has been successful in it's approach. This weekend is the annual event in Kansas City for hosting these amazing water and rain garden. The tour begins this Saturday and ends Sunday with starting and ending times on both days from 9 am to 5 pm.
This is one of the ...
|
America's Top 10 Places to Live - May 09 11:46 PM
America's Top 10 Places to Live, and the winner is Asheville, NC!
The population of Asheville, N.C., is only about 70,000, but this midsize city ranked No. 1 on a list of the most popular places to live in 2007. Asheville made its second appearance on Relocate-America.com's annual top 10 list, compiled each year since 1998. The site attracts visitors in the process of relocating and is aimed at helping people research cities before making a move. The web ...
|
A Healthy Dose of Insanity! - Jun 03 10:33 PM
Feeling a little Crazy and Needed a Laugh
I hope you'll allow me to express a little humor for a change. I was reading some materials trying to decide on something deep and inspirational when I ran across these 9 little quirky bits of humor, just had to share in case you needed a laugh today!
Ever get the desire to be a little crazy, funny, or just need to put a different twist on the day? Well here are some ...
|
Investors: Beware of Renter Fraud - May 24 02:22 PM
How to Spot Fraud on a Renter's Application
As an investor we must learn to become acquainted with some of the recent tactics used by renter's wanting to deceive us. They figure they can fool the small fry, but not the larger corporation. So they look for the small investor and the way they reveal their intention to defraud is via the rental application.
The rental application is our attempt to get some background and history on the ...
|
Extreme Makeover: Home Edition - May 17 11:17 PM
Extreme Makeover: Home Edition
I will have to say that I'm a little jealous of the extreme makeover home edition show. The show recently aired it's second extreme makeover show here in Kansas City and I missed this one and the first one. I don't seem to know when these projects are getting started so I can put my name in the hat to volunteer for the Kansas City home edition project.
I have had the pleasure of being the project coordinator for a Kansas ...
|
So you want to Sell your Home! - Jul 02 11:34 PM
Selling your Home, Getting a Buyer!
So you've decided to sell, what is it that you need to do as a seller to get a buyer to look at your home? What is it that makes your home special or different than all the others on the market! That's the real question, you as the seller need to ask yourself. How do I make my home the very best in my area?
Well, for starters, you must make ...
|
American's Building Bigger Homes - May 23 09:17 AM
Experts say the phrase "bigger is better" fits the current trend in homes. One in five American houses had at least four bedrooms in 2005. That's up from one in six in 1990, despite shrinking families and increasing costs for construction and energy. Houses with five or more bedrooms were the fastest-growing type in that time, adding to the nation's consumption of resources and reputation for excess. "In this country, bigger is better," said Gopal Ahluwalia, ...
|
Turning Lemons into Lemonade - Sep 11 11:59 PM
Refreshing Lemonade
After reading several posts on great dishes, I thought I would provide a refreshment
Berry Refreshing Lemonade This berry lemonade will add instant refreshment to those hot summer days. Preparation Time - 5 minutes* 4 cups cold water * 1 can (11.5 oz.) Berry Flavor LIBBY'S JUICY JUICE 100% Juice Non-Frozen Concentrate * 1 cup fresh lemon juice * 1/4 to 1/2 cup granulated sugar * 2 cups ice cubes * 4 to 6 lemon slices (optional) ...
|
Building a New Home: Builder Process and Follow-up - Jun 11 11:40 PM
What is the Process and Follow-up from Your Builder?
Many new home buyers are cautiously optimistic about the builder and process that goes into building a new home. Oh yes, there is the search for the land, the house design and plans, what to put in the house when it is finished and Oh yeah, let's hope we don't have any problems with the construction after the home is built.
Well, I recently came across a developer that ...
|
Real Estate Tips: Leadership - Jun 06 10:11 PM
Are you a Leader or Manager?
My years at the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation here in Kansas City, provided several great opportunities to understand and be trained in the art of leadership. Many people who occupy a management position don't really understand the differences between being a leader and being a manager, the same is true in the real estate business.
Managers will try to tell employees what to do, leaders allow associates to develop their abilities. Leaders ...
|
Knowing When an Idea is a Bad Idea! - May 31 11:51 PM
How many times have you thought about your next idea and wondered, "Is this a good idea or a bad idea"? Ever wonder if you could find out if your idea was a good one? Would it be valuable to have a formula by which you could test your idea?
All it takes is one really good idea, right?! Well maybe one that's a Winner! But to make it a winner you have to have some ...
|
Remodeling Tips: Door Trim and New Floors - May 23 10:56 PM
Putting down a new tile or wood floor in your home?
Ever wonder how you can get your door casing (trim around your doors) to fit just right without cutting tiles or wood flooring? Well, here's a tip I learned from my father about putting down new flooring in a room(s) in your prized real estate possesion, your home.
First, take up the baseboard trim around the room of your home. To do this successfully, you need ...
|
HUD Home Buying Tips - May 13 10:19 PM
Seven Top Tips for HUD Home Purchases
It seems we are going to have another high foreclosure year and there are HUD inventories building. If you want to purchase a home with some equity, you might want to consider purchasing a HUD home. However, HUD deals are very different from traditional deals. You can find instance equity and some fantastic deals but there are some things you should consider. Follow sound advice, consult with professionals and follow these tips from Eric Bramlett.
1. All ...
|
Homeowners 10 Must Have Technologies - May 08 11:22 PM
Homeowners rated the top 10 technologies at the International Builders' Show.
The most technologically savvy homeowners bask in crystal-clear television screens when they're home and can control the lights while they're out of town. Without moving an inch, they can decide what music is playing in each room and can monitor the well being of their aging mother in a different city.
So says Greg Hoshaw, owner of High Definition Systems in St. Charles, Ill., who presented the ...
|
Real Estate Strategies: 10 Investing Tips - Jun 26 09:39 PM
10 Tips in Real Estate Investing
After spending a great deal of time and money, I came across some valuable information I trust will help you in your real estate investing. At times we just need to remember what our next steps should be in order to continue to build a real estate portfolio. So, here are 10 tips you sure consider in real estate investing.
1. Make Offers. Set a goal to make a minimum number of real ...
|
The Kaw Nation: Where Kansas Gets It's Name - Jun 08 09:29 AM
I have been trying to get my head around this post for quite some time now. My post started off simply enough. It was going to be a cheerful post. I had been taught since I was a child that Kansas got it's name from the Kanza Indian Tribe. And that Kanza was Indian for "People of the South Wind."
Or was it? As I was preparing this blog about one month ago I decided to delve into ...
|
Full Service Real Estate Agent - But This Is Going Above & Beyond! - Apr 15 05:17 PM
I recently sold a home that is being liquidated by an executor half a continent away. There were some tenants in the house (I'm not sure how much if anything they were paying) and were supposed to get most of the stuff out. But somewhere between the executor and the tenants "most of the stuff" got lost in translation. I don't think it was done on purpose. But it happened, none-the-less. On the day of closing I let the ...
|
Building a New Home: Resources - Apr 07 11:53 PM
I came across three real estate books which provide some excellent new home resources.
General Home Building Books
Better Houses, Better Living by Myron FergusonWhat to look for in your new home--and mistakes to avoid!
The Well-Built HouseAn insider's guide to construction, written by a professional contractor.
Your New HouseThe alert consumer's guide to buying and building a quality home
Do you know of any other real estate resources which would be of value in new home construction? Let me hear ...
|
Building a New Home: Installing Hardwood Floors - May 15 11:54 PM
How to Install Hardwood Flooring
Installation Tips for installing hardwood flooring.
For me, hardwood floors add that extra beauty in a home that gives the new home a richness and style that never goes out of style. If installed, sanded and finished properly, hardwoods provide years of beauty and elegance.
You can learn how to install hardwood flooring with the proper tools and techniques.
One of the first tips of how to install hardwood flooring is how to handle your flooring delivery. When your flooring is delivered stack ...
|
Any Way the Wind Blows - Jul 02 10:38 PM
Faith, Traditions and Beliefs
I read a recent article in the Kansas City Star on "Professing and Practicing are not the same thing" and I was taken back by some of the statements and comments reflected in this article. Here are some of the statisitics given in the article.
Eighty-three percent of those in the study stated identified themselves as Christians, yet only 49 percent were committed to Christianity.Sixty-six percent believe God is all-powerful, all-knowing perfect creator of the universe.Twenty-five percent ...
|
Mulch Essential and Simple - May 17 11:53 PM
Mulch, is essential and simple!
I was reading a article about how mulch is an essential part of gardening for your home. The article stated that without mulch in the garden around your home, the garden wouldn't be able to conserve the moisture needed during the hot days of summer. It futher states that mulch insulates the soil from the sun's rays and keeps the soil cooler. And finally, mulch is the best way to control weeds.
Okay, but I ...
|
Wichita area real estate production for the 1st quarter, 2008. - May 14 08:15 AM
Why does the public have a poor attitude toward real estate agents? Look at these stats from the 1st 3 months of 2008 for the South Kansas MLS.
There are around 2100 members of the MLS. Only around 52% of the members logged a side sold in the 1st Quarter of 2008. In other words, over 1,000 agents or 48% did not close a transaction. Of the 1083 who had a closing, 303 had only ...
|
Building a New Home: Tile Floors - May 16 11:06 PM
Installing Tile Floors
Here's a great web site for installing ceramic tile floors in your new home or existing home. Ceramic-Tile-Floor.info Their step by step process provides you with exceptional details on installing ceramic tile floors.
So you want tile floors in your home. Well, after several home showings and a few large installation of tile floors in homes, I would like to point out some of the most important points about tile floors in a home.
If you are not ...
|
Success...where is IT! - Apr 30 10:24 PM
Success, what does that mean for you? Albert Schweitzer once wrote, "Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful."
Here's 7 simple steps I came across that I trust will help you achieve your happiness and success.
Believe In Yourself: Identify your natural talents and abilities. Do what you enjoy adn what you do best. Focus on your strengths and not your weaknesses.Develop ...
|
Real Estate Tips: Noisy Water Pipes - May 02 09:52 PM
Bang, Bang, clatter, klunk,... Noisy Water Pipes
Ever have that vibrating noise when you flush the toilet, turn off the shower, or use the washing machine? Noisy pipes are often caused by "water hammer". Shutting off the flow suddenly sends a pressure or shock wave down the water line through the water shocking the pipes and creating the 'hammer' noise. Over time, "water hammer" can damage pipes, valves and eventually weaken pipe joints.
So what can you do about ...
|
Facing Foreclosure in Kansas? - Mar 12 08:33 PM
I have started sending out a postcard to folks that are facing a foreclosure. It lists the toll-free hot-line that was created for troubled borrowers. It is a free call and there is no obligation. 1-888-995-4673 is the number and they are available 24/7. Here's a link to an article written about the HOPE toll free number. Or, visit their website at: www.995HOPE.org
If you are in this situation, the first step you need to take is to ...
|
Balance...what's that! - May 03 08:46 PM
Are you Keeping Balance in your a Life?
Do you work 60, 70 or 80 hours a week? What about a vacation, are you planning time into your calendar to be with your family? Do you make time each week to spend with those special people in your life? Are you giving up your life to make a living?
In recent reports from the Christian Science Monitor and Harvard Business Review (HBR), they say extreme jobs are on the rise. ...
|
All About Homeowners Insurance - Apr 11 03:10 PM
As soon as you make an offer on a home, you should contact your insurance agent to set-up a homeowner's insurance policy. Most insurance professionals have a lot of experience in working with homeowners and can offer useful tips about home ownership, particularly regarding home safety and keeping your premium low. Most lenders require you to carry insurance that covers 80% to 100% of the home's replacement value - what it would cost to replace the ...
|
Johnson County estimated to become the largest county in Kansas City - Mar 12 12:11 PM
There was an interesting article in the Kansas City Business Journal about how the County Economic Research institute estimates that Johnson County Kansas is set to become the largest populated county in the Kansas City Metro by 2023 (based on projections from the Mid American Regional Council).If that growth holds true, that is good news for long term housing appreciation in Johnson County. While the growth would obviously be hinged on employment growth... The real key for Johnson County is not losing site ...
|
Kansas City Auctioneer Robert Mayo Earns Prestigious AARE Designation - Mar 30 04:19 PM
Kansas City Auctioneer Robert Mayo has gone the 'extra mile' to offer the highest level of professionalism and the most up-to-date information when it comes to selling properties by earning the Accredited Auctioneer, Real Estate (AARE) designation. Offered through the National Auctioneers Association Education Institute, AARE courses cover topics such as property transfer, financial analysis and legal issues involving the sale of real estate by the auction method. Less than 1% of Auctioneers throughout North America hold ...
|
Let This Olathe Real Estate Agent Help You Find Your Dream Home! - Mar 29 05:08 PM
Buying a house can be confusing at times, especially for
first time home buyer's in Olathe! There can be many different directions and
options, but no matter where you find a home, a buyer's agent that has your best
interests in mind is only a phone call away!
Brad Papa is a RE/MAX agent, but because he shares a
cooperating relationship with all other Olathe real estate offices (and all
offices throughout the greater Kansas ...
|
Here are a couple of tips for navigating your way through the wonderful JOHNSON COUNTY - Mar 18 10:01 PM
Johnson County has a grid network through most of the county with a road every mile. The grid has facilitated rapid growth and easy access.
Major highways I-35 - Southwest corner with Franklin County northeast through Edgerton, Gardner, Olathe, Lenexa, Overland Park, and Merriam to the northeast corner with downtown Kansas City I-435 - Northern border with Wyandotte County south through Shawnee and Lenexa to K-10 then east through Overland Park and Leawood to the ...
|
Olathe Kansas Mortgage Rates Report : Now's The Time To Buy Olathe Real Estate - Mar 18 02:54 PM
New Page 1
<!--
p.MsoNormal
{mso-style-parent:"";
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";
margin-left:0in; margin-right:0in; margin-top:0in}
-->
They did it again! The Federal Reserve
announced today (3/18/08) that they have cut interest rates by 3/4 of a percent
to try and help the struggling economy. The federal funds rate is the interest
that banks charge each other and is now down to 2.25% , the lowest point
since late 2004. The record low interest rates and the ...
|
Media giving Buyers false ideas...... - Mar 01 03:05 PM
If you watch the news long enough, you will think that Kansas City is in the worst of worst buyers market, where buyers are actually able to "steal" homes from sellers. Some buyers are starting to believe this rubbish and making absolutely ridiculous offers on resale and new homes in the area.
Our market is not the same as Florida, California or New York. The Kansas City area has a pretty stable real estate market. It seems ...
|
Trip to Baldwin City - Feb 23 09:18 PM
Well, we just returned home from Baldwin City Kansas where my son is going to attend Baker University in the fall.
(see my post on the subject here) We had to attend a Scholarship Day for him to be able to receive more money.
It was a beautiful trip even though the weather was terrible. It was a cold 24 degrees and overcast and windy. Then on the way home it rained. I hate driving in the ...
|
Home Depot Faux Wood Blinds - Cutting Machine Saves The Day! - Feb 18 04:22 PM
New Page 1
Home Depot - Faux Wood Blinds Cut To Size
This past weekend, my wife was at the JC Penney
Home Store on 119th and Metcalf and she noticed that the faux wood blinds were
40%, which made them approximately $25 each. This was much cheaper than other
quotes we had been getting for similar blinds. Sears was around $70 and 3 Day
Blinds was about $115, so we decided go with the ...
|
Why own real estate in Wichita, KS - Feb 18 02:32 PM
Why own real estate in Wichita, KS
Wichita was named the #1 place in the country to live the good life cheaply, Forbes
Wichita ranks in the top 32 cities nationally for quality of life. Forbes
Wichita was ranked last year the 2nd best real estate market in the Midwest. Money
Wichita's real estate prices are 12% below what they should be. National City
Wichita is ranked #1 in manufacturing among cities below 1,000,000 populations.
December, 2007 unemployment rate was 3.6%. State ...
|
An Example of Using Proper Leverage For Your Kansas City Real Estate Investments - Feb 05 06:42 PM
Using leverage properly when you are investing in real estate is the key to economic success. Recently I wrote two different blog posts revolving around a duplex in Olathe that I know was purchased in 1997 for $106,000.
The two posts that were written show exactly how the leverage could have been used and the drastically two different results each produced. I would really urge you, the Kansas City area real estate investor, to take a few ...
|
What to Rehab? - Jan 01 04:08 PM
You've bought a house, a fixer-upper you can make some money on. What improvements and repairs should you make? First of all, before you buy, you need to have some simple rules with which to start analyzing possible fixes. Return On Investment With fixer-uppers, you have do things which give the most "bang for the buck." Aim for a three-to-one return on improvements. If you're going to resurface the driveway for $1000, it better raise the ...
|
Should we remodel or should we move? - Dec 04 09:32 PM
Are you considering remodeling your home? Maybe you are trying to decide whether you should move instead. Well the latest statistics are in*. Before undertaking that major kitchen overhall or dropping a chunk of change into finishing off the basement, you might want to think about these numbers:Project Cost Cost recouped percentageKitchen Remodel $21,000 $17,000 88%Basement Finish $62,000 $40,000 65%New Windows $11,000 $8,000 73%New Siding $10,000 $7,900 77%New Deck $10,500 $7.900 75%For more statistics Click HereBy looking at ...
|
Land Deals - Oct 18 03:03 PM
Interesting to see the depth of land properties and lake areas available. Think out of the box and out of the city. Rowing is a sport you can start at any age. Gentle on the joints and freeing of the spirit. Learning to row - will change your life. Rowing on your own pond will make you not only a big fish, but a very peaceful fish. Think water, www.amrowing.com for boats, and www.patsoptic.crownrealty.com for a way ...
|
Lake of the Ozarks Real Estate, Finding the Best REALTOR - Oct 10 03:06 PM
Need a good buyers/ sellers agent in Lake of the OzarksIf you are looking for a REALTOR in the Lake of the Ozarks... I can help!I am not trying to get you to use me as your REALTOR! I work in the Kansas City area but lived for many years on the lake before moving to Kansas City. After living in the area for over 20 years and making numerous contacts through various Real Estate transactions and being in the business myself I ...
|
THINKING OF MAKING A MOVE TO TOPEKA, KS....ARE SCHOOLS A FACTOR..READ ON.. - Sep 20 08:20 PM
Thank you for visiting my blog. Below you will find information on most K-12 schools in Shawnee County which serve the Topeka Area. I
f you are interested in Colleges, Trade Schools or Specialty Schools, look for separate blog OR better yet, email what you are interested in and I will contact you directly about your specific interests.
If you would like to know my DETAILS, please feel free to give me a call. 785) 640-8811. Visit my website ...
|
Kansas City Parade of Homes - Sep 19 10:24 PM
Over 600 Kansas City Homes on Display
One of my favorite times of the year is the Kansas City Parade of Homes where 640 homes are on display through out the Greater Kansas City area. The dates are from September 16 - 30th with open times from 11:00 am to 6:00pm.
This event is the 60th annual Parade of Homes and is free to the public for admission. Location of homes are scattered through out eight counties with ...
|
kansas home buyers and sellers - Sep 19 04:38 PM
This is Becky Burghart again. Real Estate SALESPERSON from Topeka, KS. Wanted to make sure your read my blog from yesterday 9/16/07 pertaining the 1/2 drop in the Federal Reserve AND The stats I posted pertaining the market here in Topeka. If you want it forwarded, let me know.
TODAY I want to let you know if you have a KANSAS REAL ESTATE QUESTION. let me know and I will personally address your question. REMEMBER: I NEED A METHOD TO ...
|
Please Release Me - Sep 03 09:10 PM
That's what those dust gathering tomes are saying to you.
How do you release a book? Easy, visit this website and learn more:
Books just wanna be FREE! See what I mean at:http://bookcrossing.com/friend/IL2Read
I have been a member of BookCrossing for a while now and I've released a few books. I have many more to send out in the world. It's a great way to recycle books and a little like the Where's George dollar bills in that you ...
|
Need a Place to Stay - Kansas State Football 2007 - Aug 28 11:20 PM
Ahhhh! It's that time of year again. Friends, Family and Football!! If you're looking for a place to stay in Manhattan, Kansas on and or before game day. Check out this list of hotels, motels and bed and breakfasts in the area recently published in the local newspaper. These will be updated at least twice before the nearest game. To see the tabulated form click here Where can I stay in Manhattan on/before gameday? Better make your plans quick! ...
|
Wamego, Kansas - Small Town, BIG Experience - Aug 28 10:55 PM
The OZ Museum Features one of the largest privately owned collections of Oz memorabilia in the world. From the earliest books of Oz creator, L. Frank Baum to today's collectibles that can be purchased in Auntie Em's Gift Shop, visitors both young and "young at heart" will treasure a visit to the Oz Museum.511 Lincoln Ave. - (785) 458-8686Mon-Sat 10am to 5pm, Sun Noon to 5pmhttp://www.ozmuseum.com/Admission: $7 (age 13 and up), $4 (age 4 to 12)Columbian ...
|
Fort Riley Online - Lots of Information - Aug 26 08:27 PM
Fort Riley Connection http://www.fortrileyconnection.com/ Ft. Riley Web site has been launched to serve as a one-stop information source for military personnel and civilians moving to Fort Riley and its surrounding area. The site is intended to ease the relocation process for new and soon-to-be residents of this region, an area scheduled to experience dramitic population growth as a result of the BRAC. The official Fort Riley web site for complete post info is: http://www.riley.army.mil/ Your local ...
|
Manhattan, Kansas - ACT composite scores on the rise - Aug 26 08:23 PM
Manhattan High School ACT composite scores continue to rise. The MHS composite score for the class of 2007 was 23.1 compared to the state composite score of 21.9. The 23.1 MHS composite score was the highest composite score in the past decade.The ACT consists of curiculum-based tests of educational development in English, mathematics, reading, and science designed to measure the skills needed for success in the first year college coursework.Below are the 10 year ACT composite scores ...
|
Fort Riley, Kansas - What's Going On? - Aug 23 11:46 PM
There are several resources available to keep you informed on what's happening at Fort Riley. Big Red One & Fort Riley Update: This regular newsletter provides updates on Fort Riley units, deployed and deploying units, training highlights, Fort Riley news, jobs and contracting and more07-2007 Big Red One & Fort Riley UpdateFort Riley Status Report (formerly the "Fort Riley Update"): A monthly information sheet with the latest population numbers, deployments, upcoming events and training items that ...
|
Wizard of Oz in Wamego, Kansas - Aug 23 11:29 PM
ORIGINAL MUNCHKINS!!! The individuals who portrayed the Munchkins in "The Wizard of OZ" in 1939 were youngsters, teenagers and young adults. Today there are only a few of these wonderful people still with us. Several of the original Munchkins will appear at OZtoberFest 2007. Most are in their mid 80s but remain full of energy and enthusiasm for the film that made them familiar around the world. The Munchkins will sign autographs and photos at selected ...
|
Kansas State University - Manhattan, KS - Aug 23 03:24 PM
Kansas State University ranks 7th among ALL univerisites in Rhodes Scholars, Marshall Scholars, Truman Scholars and Goldwater Scholars.1. Harvard2. Yale3. Princeton4. Stanford5. Duke6. Brown7. KANSAS STATE8. Cornell KSU Ranks FIRST nationally among state universities in its number of Rhodes, Marshall, Truman, Goldwater and Udall scholarship shince 1986. "Top 100 Most Wired Universities" (yahoo Magazine, 2002)"Top 10 Trendiest Schools" (Kaplan Newsweek College Catalog 2001)#5 Best Bargain Public Colleges (The Best 357 Colleges, 2005) ...
|
What Makes Manhattan, KS Great! - Aug 23 03:18 PM
Just another reason why you should consider moving to Manhattan."Top 10 Best Place to Reture Young" (CNNMoney.com, 2007)One of "The 50 Best Places to Live" (Men's Journal, March 2002)#23 Quality of Life ranking out of 577 micropolitan areas (Bizjournals.com 2006)Tree City USA for 21 consecutive years (National Arbor Day Foundation)76th U.S. City to receive "Clean Cities" designation (U.S. Department of Energy) ...
|
Johnson County, Kansas Real Estate Investing - Aug 02 03:10 PM
Johnson County, Kansas is the southwest corner of the Kansas City metropolitan area. And investing in Johnson County, Kansas real estate can be more expensive than elsewhere around Kansas City. But that's okay. Because the returns, year in and year out, always tend to be a cut above the rest of the KC area.
Yesterday I posted an article with the title Rental Property in Kansas City. In that post I mentioned a few of the ...
|
Kansas City Real Estate Investing Expenses: How To Know The Truth - Jul 25 04:00 PM
Understanding the expenses of your Kansas City real estate investment property is a good idea. It's a terrific idea if you understand what they will be before you buy!
There are a few expenses that you can gather and estimate before you buy rather easily.
- Insurance.- Property Management.- Taxes.
But there are also a lot of expenses that can be very fluid.
- Utilities.- Repairs.- Vacancies.- Legal costs.
And this is by no means a comprehensive list of expenses. But you ...
|
The State of Kansas: Ad Astra Per Aspera - Jul 13 05:08 PM
The State of Kansasad astra per aspera translates to "To the stars through difficulties."Born January 29, 1861 as a Free State15th large state in square miles but the 32nd most populous state with 2,688,418 ('00)Kansas comes from the Kanza Tribe. The state flower is the Sunflower.The Meadowlark is the state bird. Though some would say the Jayhawk.Largest city: Wichita.Largest metro area: Suburban Kansas City.Division 1 Athletics Kansas State University The University of Kansas Famous Kansans include: ...
|
Kansas City Farmers' Markets - Olathe, Overland Park... - Jun 24 10:18 PM
Kansas City Area Farmer's Markets
Who doesn't like the taste of a juicy mouth watering watermelon, a fresh tart or tangy apple or a ripe tantalizing tomato? How about some fresh sweet corn, ripe cantaloupe, or crispy cucumbers?
I don't think there's anything better than homegrown fruits and vegetables! You can get a fantastic selection of these delights at our local farmers markets here in Kansas City, Olathe, Overland Park, Shawnee, Merriam, Lenexa and many other cities. You can ...
|
How Are Your Current Real Estate Investments Going? - Jun 19 03:22 PM
How are your current real estate investments going here in Kansas City? Or anywhere, for that matter. Do you even know? You should.
There has been a lot of talk lately about moving money out of real estate investment properties and back in to the stock market. And for many people this could be a good idea. But for most, I doubt it. Assuming you purchased the property using good, solid market financials.
What you need to ...
|
Wood, Metal or Vinyl? - Jun 01 11:19 PM
Building a Fence for your New Home?
Decided to build a fence, but haven't decided on the materials to use? The choices can become complex even though the choices may be between wood, metal or vinyl. Well let's take a look at the characteristics and advantages. Let's start with wood.
Wood Fence:Wood fencing comes in a variety of wood types and can be designed into almost any form and style you desire. This makes wood a great choice ...
|
Kansas City Current Mortgage Rates - May 25 02:39 PM
SOURCE: http://www.mtgeinfo.com/kansascity/cmr.htm © copyright 2000-2006 All rights reserved. 13:31:24 ...
|
10,000 Rain Gardens - May 03 09:30 PM
Kansas City and 10,000 Rain Gardens
Here in Kansas City, the former mayor presented a campaign of 10,000 Rain Gardens to help with water run off. Little by little, homes and communities are taking on this project and I think it is worth reporting on. So, here's some of the information presented on the web site, RainKC.com. Kind of goes with the ActiveRain theme don't you think!
Creating a Rain Garden
1. Performing a percolation test. Dig a coffee-can sized ...
|
1st Quarter, 2008 sales report for the Wichita, KS metro area. - Apr 30 10:12 AM
Sales were down in the Wichita MLS based on national news impact, inability of buyers to sell their existing homes in other cities and tightening of credit standards along with the elimination of sub-prime loans.
Listing were also down at an slightly higher rate which caused the market in our area to be balanced and in some cases having us experience multiple offers.
The market for homes under $150,000 is very strong if the home is in good ...
|
Stop Renting : 11 Reasons To Buy A Home - Apr 14 02:08 PM
Low Interest Rate: Interest rates are historically low, so buy now and lock in at a great rate! Click here for a mortgage calculatorLots of Choices: Housing volume is at an all time high, so you have a lot of inventory to choose from when searching for your dream home. Stop Paying Your Landlord: Start paying yourself! By buying a house, YOU will be gaining the benefits instead of putting money in a landlord's pocket each month.It's ...
|
Suburban Maryland Foreclosures Surge - Apr 04 08:53 AM
The volume of trustee sale foreclosures is high for the coming week. The rusult will be a continued flow of lender owned foreclosures during the coming months.
The following is the auction schedule for the week for one auction company, Harvey West:
...
|
The Best Way To Determine Your Home's Value - Mar 18 12:09 PM
There are tons of real estate websites that consumers to go to and learn more about real estate in their area, but a word of caution when using these websites exclusively. Remember they are national websites with some good information, but the best resource should be real estate agents that know your local area. Olathe real estate agents can give you the best advise on Olathe and surrounding areas.
One website feature to beware of is http://www.zillow.com/ ...
|
Why Your House Didn't Sell - Repackaging Homes In The Olathe Real Estate Market - Mar 10 01:21 PM
New Page 1
There
are many reasons why a house doesn't sell the first time around, but price is
usually the number one reason.
Most Sellers do not understand the current real estate market in Olathe well enough to price the home effectively on their own.
And while an experienced realestate
agent in Olathe can give pricing advice to a seller, it is ultimately up to the
seller to make an educated decision on their ...
|
Kansas City Real Estate Market Still Very Active - Mar 04 11:57 AM
New Page 1
The Kansas City Star had a great article
here about how Kansas City is different from other cities around the country
in that recessions and market downturns usually do not hit our city as hard as
other parts of the country. On the other
hand, the huge economic booms aren't felt here either.
The
article did mention the housing market and how Kansas City hasn't been hit as
hard as other markets. ...
|
Johnson County Library Making Impressive Changes - Feb 13 11:39 AM
New Page 1
I have been a
member of the Johnson County Library for years, and lately they have been making
some impressive changes to make checking out books easier and faster. You are
able to search for books online,
and then place holds on books. This not only ensures you get the book you want,
but also features inter-library transfers. So if another branch has the book you want, you don't have to drive ...
|
Real Estate Marketing Strategies - Kansas City Home Buyers & Sellers - Jan 21 12:10 PM
When outlining the ongoing strategies for the marketing of our listings and our plan for assisting home buyers, we always consider what the online impact is to the home buyers and home sellers. For home buyers we provide as much up front information as possible online. We follow up occasionally by email but never by phone (unless requested to do so). Because the average online buyer is months away from buying a home, providing a useful site and maintaining a patient approach is imperative. Doing so has proven to be ...
|
Ah that new home smell! - Dec 04 11:37 AM
I just returned from buying a new car for my wife and all I can think about is the new car smell. That smell is so unforgetable that they even sell air fresheners with new car scent. That got me to thinking about the scent of a new home.With over 4,000 new home available on the market in Kansas City, ask yourself is a new home in my future? So what is so beautiful about a ...
|
Wichita's economy keeps rolling along - Nov 11 11:19 AM
Forbes magazine just ranked Wichita, KS as the 9th best job market in the U.S.
There are over 1,500 aircraft jobs going unfilled because of the lack of unqualified applicants.
There are suppose to be an additional 6,000 to 8,500 job openings in Wichita next year.
Learjet is building a new biz jet and they are doing it in Wichita.
A new job training center is being built at the corporate airport in NE Wichita.
Rental costs are going up and ...
|
September 2007 MLS Stats for Kansas Real Estate - Homes that SOLD Northeastern Central Kansas - Oct 23 09:02 AM
The best area of Kansas to buy a home for re-sale value and highest appreciation is found in Douglas County Kansas with Lawrence being number 1, Eudora being number 2, and Baldwin being number 3.
September 2007 brought the sale of only 49 Douglas County homes which was way down from last month's 136 homes and July's 184 homes. Average DOM (days on market) was 94 which is up from 74 from last month. Homes being SOLD for the next several months, ...
|
Kansas City Real Estate Values dropping? - Oct 03 11:00 AM
From the mortgage perspective the values of homes are not really dropping but instead they are adjusting. If you look at a mortgage as an investment in Real Estate, you can compare the market. Just as anything. Stocks, futures, and Real Estate, the price is driven by demand.
Demand is down right now. I believe the media is playing a big roll in that but the values for existing homes are holding steady at 2004/2005 value. The ...
|
Manhattan/Riley County Preservation Alliance - Kansas - Sep 29 12:29 AM
Their mission is to engage the community in the active preservation of its historic resources by promoting historic preservation in the community and surrounding area, enhancing economic development through historic preservation, and educating the community as to the cultural importance of historic preservation. For more about the Preservation Alliance and their goals visist: http://preservemanhattan.org/ Also, be sure to note the upcoming meetings. It is important to attend such meetings if you are interested in helping preserve ...
|
