KC Real Estate Chatter

Nearly One Acre! Beautiful 5 Bedroom Home in DeSoto, KS only $200,000!!

2012-02-29T13:17:00.000-06:00

Nearly One Acre! Beautiful 5 Bedroom Home in DeSoto, KS

Just listed at $200,000!!

If you're looking for space, but still want to live close to highways, shopping, and restaurants, then don't miss this one!

Bedrooms: 5 ~ Bathrooms: 3 ~ Home Size: 2,488 sq.ft. ~ Garage: 3
Lot Size: 37,461 sq.ft. ~ County: Johnson Co, KS ~ Property Type: Single Family Detached
Year Built: 1970 ~ MLS Number: 1767100

Great lot (near 1 acre) surrounded by forest & creek! 4th & 5th Bedroom on basement level (non-conforming) share a closet. 5th Bedroom currently used as an office. Expanded plan with huge Master suite, private Master bath & large walk-in closet. Large eat-in Kitchen features brand new countertops, tile backsplash, fresh paint and lots of cabinet space. Newly finished basement, all tile, plenty of room for play inside & out. Sqft approx. Award winning DeSoto schools and just minutes from K-7, K-10, shopping and restaurants!

Call 913-787-1870 24hr to schedule an immediate showing and find out when the next OPEN HOUSE is.

Just Listed! 5 Bedroom Home in Popular Grey Oaks in Shawnee, KS...only $340,000!

2012-02-28T11:41:00.000-06:00

A Must See at only $340,000!!!

Check out the Virtual Tour!!

Bedrooms: 5 Bathrooms: 4.2

Home Size: 3,700 sq.ft. Garage: 3

County: Johnson Property Type: Single Family Home

Year Built: 2004 MLS Number: 1766860

Call 913-787-1870 for an immediate showing or more information on the area, plus other homes for sale from all listing companies. Call or Text us to find out when the next Open House is.

Sharp 5 bedroom in popular Grey Oaks. Master 3 bedrooms upstairs w/5th bedroom on main level. New Carpet, designer colors, & tasteful decor. Finished basement with tons of space for games or entertaining. Great cul-de-sac lot on GREAT block! Pool & Park in neighborhood with dedicated schools. Easy access to shopping, entertainment, & highways. Ready to move in!

New Listing in Merriam, KS...A Must See at $119,000!

2012-02-21T14:28:00.000-06:00

Don't miss this one!! Priced to move...$119,000!!

Priced at $119,000

Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 2

Garage: 2 Lot Size: 23,255 sq.ft.

County: Johnson Property Type: Single Family Home

Year Built: 1967 MLS Number: 1765840

Call 913-787-1870 24hr to schedule an immediate showing.

JUST CAME ON THE MARKET! Come see for yourself! Call Brett Pickett at 913/787-1870 with ANY questions. Drop in and see this great home, get information on all the other homes available in the area and get home buyer help from a local professional.

This one will sell FAST!! Split-entry floorplan featuring large living room, spacious kitchen & dining area, hardwoods & fresh paint throughout. Master bedroom w/ bonus sitting area, walk-in closet, newly finished master bath. Enjoy huge backyard from deck. Perfect for entertaining, gardening-the possibilities are endless! Call us (913-787-1870) for an immediate showing or more information on the area, plus other homes for sale from all listing companies.

Just Listed! Open House Sunday 1/8..Come see beautiful 1.5 story in popular Grey Oaks!

2012-01-06T14:31:00.000-06:00

Just Listed!!

Popular 1.5 Story Floorplan in Desirable Grey Oaks...Only $355,000!!

Priced at $355,000


Bedrooms:	4	Bathrooms:	4.1
Home Size:	4,006 sq.ft.	Garage:	3
Lot Size:	12,225 sq.ft.	Community:	Grey Oaks
County:	Johnson	Property Type:	Single Family Detached
Year Built:	2004	MLS Number:	1758093

Property Description

Popular 1.5 story in desired Grey Oaks Subdivision. Rich dark hardwoods & neutral tones. Big windows for lots of natural light. Granite island, huge walk-in pantry, stainless appliances, 3 fireplaces. TONS OF SPACE: Hearth Room, Breakkfast Room, Living Room, Dining Room, PLUS loft & huge finishd basement with MEDIA ROOM, wet bar & 4th full bath (media room can be 5th bedroom). Master Bath has double vanity, walk-in shower, private bowl room, & jet tub. Large upstairs bedrooms with walk-in closets and direct access to bathrooms. Large laundry room & mud bench at garage entry. Neighborhood recreation park area with sand volleyball & pool, plus walking trails. All measure & sqft are approx. Call 24hrs to 913/787-1870 for more details on this or any other property in the area or to schedule a private showing. Visit www.PickettPropertyGroup.com for more info and helpful FREE BUYER INFO.

Looking Good for 2012...Home Sales are Up!

2012-01-05T15:02:00.000-06:00

According to the National Association of Realtors, the latest numbers for pending sales indicate for the second month in a row that the index is up. The index is used to provide general insight to where the housing market is heading. Because new home sales reflect ‘big ticket’ items that require construction and investment, the housing market is often considered an indicator of the direction of the economy as a whole. Growth in the housing market usually means subsequent spending, generating demand for goods and services and the employees who provide them.

The good news is that the index has broken 100. The only other time this has happened since the housing boom collapsed was during the homeowner tax credit incentive. Knowing that the index has returned to that level a year since the credit has been in effect means the housing market is strengthening completely on its own, without any stimulus.

Not only are home sales up, but so are housing starts and home pricing are stabilizing in many markets, even increasing in some. We still have a ways to go in terms of a recovery, but it looks like we may be heading in the right direction.

Ready, Set, SELL! Reasons to List Your House NOW.

2012-01-04T14:52:00.002-06:00

We hear it all the time.

"We're going to wait to list our house in Spring."

"There's not as many people looking to buy right now, so we'll wait a few more months."

Nooooo! Don't wait! The time is NOW and let me break it down for you:

1. Serious Buyers: There may be fewer of them, but the ones that are out there are very serious about making a purchase...they are there to buy.
2. Less Competition: The current inventory of homes for sale in the KC area is at a 5 year low. Because there are so many people out there with the "We'll wait 'til Spring" mentality, that means there is fewer competition in your local market than any other time of the year.
3. Interest Rates: Today's interest rates are still low, giving buyers more spending power and you the same advantage when you begin shopping for your next home.

A Must See!! Beautiful Ward Park Home only $280,000!

2011-12-13T09:53:00.000-06:00

Back on the market...only $280,000!!!

Newly Remodeled Tudor in Ward Park! Private drive with 2 car attched garage! SO MUCH NEW! New Kitchen with GRANITE, STAINLESS APPLIANCES & dark cabinets. Large open Brkfast Room.

Hardwoods all redone. Elegant Formal Dining Room. Large Living Room w/Fireplace. 1st Floor Office/Den.

Huge Master w/NEW private Bath, double sinks, tub & shower...also double closets. Newly finished basement.

WHAT A GREAT AREA TO CALL HOME! THIS HOUSE IS READY TO MOVE IN! Call or Text Pickett Property Group for an immediate showing or for more information on the area plus other homes for sale from all listing companies. We're bringing positive customer experiences back to Real Estate!

6 Tips to Selling Your Home During the Winter Months

2011-12-08T14:12:00.001-06:00

If your home will be for sale over the winter months, it's important to address those issues that occur more often during this time of year than any other.

Shine on: This should be happening regardless what time of year it is, but with the shorter and often cloudy days during the winter months, it's even more important. Turn on every single light in the house, including closets, pantries, and hallways. Don't forget the outdoor porch and patio lights as well.
Keep it clear: No one wants to climb over huge snow drifts or drudge through 3 feet of snow to get to the front door. Shovel your driveway and keep a clear path from the driveway to the front door.
Welcome mat: Have a mat or an area rug by the front door for visitors to wipe their feet. Provide disposable slippers and a bench to make it even easier to remove or put on their shoes or boots.
Keep odors at bay: Homes tend to get stuffier during the winter months, which can be a turn-off to buyers if the odors build up. Clean more frequently, change the litter box every day, and avoid strong cooking odors.
Look festive: Enjoy the holiday decorations...many buyers find them welcoming and it can help make the home look cheerful during the winter months.
Keep it comfy: There's no need to overheat buyers, since most will be walking through with their coats on anyway. Keep the temperature at 65-68 degrees for showings.

Decor Inspiration: Letter Mural

2011-12-06T10:37:00.000-06:00

As a Real Estate Consultant, I get to see a lot of great decorating ideas as I tour with buyers and consult with sellers from one home to the next. And every once in awhile, I'll see something that stops me dead in my tracks and makes me think, "Fabulous idea...I need to do that!".

Such was the case when I saw this letter mural in a house located by the front door. Very cleverly, the homeowners took the initials of each family member, collected them in various shapes, sizes, and textures, hung them this way and that and...Voila! I just love and simplicity and complexity of it. What do you think?

New Home Construction and Resales in Grey Oaks...Shawnee, KS

2011-10-20T14:33:00.002-05:00

Homes for sale in Shawnee, KS

2011-10-20T13:38:00.000-05:00

Move in before the Holidays!! Great 3 Bedroom Kansas City Home only $85,000!!

2011-10-11T14:19:00.000-05:00

Great Location! Great Condition! Great Price!!

Only $85,000!!!

Great corner lot affords extra space and privacy!

Enjoy the refinished hardwood floors!

Plenty of cabinet space!

Large, fenced in backyard with newly built storage shed!

Bedrooms: 3                                  Bathrooms: 2

Home Size: 1,016 sq.ft.                  Garage: 2

County: Jackson                             Property Type: Single Family Detached

Year Built: 1960
Popular floorplan features newly refinished hardwood floors, open eat-in kitchen & separate dining. Large Master suite w/private bath. Finished basement with extra craft/bonus room. Great corner lot features newly built shed for extra storage & large fenced backyard. Conveniently located near shopping & restaurants with quick & easy highway access.

Call 913-787-1870 for an immediate showing or more information on the area, plus other homes for sale from all listing companies.

10 Must NOTS When Applying for a Mortgage Loan

2011-08-04T12:12:00.000-05:00

10 Must NOTS When Applying for a Mortgage Loan

#1) You Must NOT change jobs, become self-employed or quit your job: The reason that this is so important is if you would happen to change your job there is usually a certain amount of time that you would have to wait before you would be able to close. FHA for instant requires that you have been at your current job for 1 month prior to closing. If you happen to decide to quit your job and become self-employed then in order to be able to use your income we would at least need 1 year of personal tax returns with your new position and most loan programs require two years. If you decide to quit your job before closing and the lender will be using your income for qualifying it may cause your loan to be denied. Before any of this takes place please contact your mortgage consultant and explain to them what you are planning on doing when it comes to your Job.

#2) You Must NOT co-sign a loan for anyone: During the loan process, any changes to your credit report or status could negatively affect your ability to close your loan on time or at all. Co-signing any type of car loan, student loans, or others loan would result in inquires into your credit and additional financial responsibilities. All of these could result in loan closing delays or denials. If this situation applies to you, please contact your Mortgage Planner.

#3) You Must NOT buy a Vehicle (or you maybe living in it!): Applying for credit to purchase a vehicle will be recorded as an inquiry into your credit by credit bureaus. This may decrease your credit score or decrease the amount of money that you may qualify for when purchasing a home. It is very important to avoid applying for these types of loan throughout the loan process. If this situation applies to you, please contact your Mortgage Planner.

#4) You Must NOT use charge cards excessively or make late payments on ANY of your accounts: Excessive use of credit cards can have 2 negative affects on your credit rating. One, inquires will be recorded by credit bureaus and could decrease your credit score. Two, balances on credit cards exceeding 35% will affect your debt to income ratio and could decrease your credit score. Also, late payments of any sort can decrease your credit score, increase your home loan interest rate, delay loan closing, or cause loan denial. If this situation applies to you, please contact your Mortgage Planner.

#5) You Must NOT spend money you have set aside for closing: Most conventional loans require 2 months of reserve money to be verified in your available financial accounts. Once it has been verified for use at close, spending these reserve funds may result in loan closing delays or even loan denial. If this situation applies to you, please contact your Mortgage Planner.

#6) You Must NOT omit debts or liabilities from your loan application: Please be very honest and clear about ALL of your debts or liabilities early in the loan application process. Having the right information will allow your Mortgage Planner to provide you the best qualifying loan value. Unrecorded debts or liabilities that are found later in the process may affect the amount of money you qualify for in addition to causing delays or even denials of your home loan. If this situation applies to you, please contact your Mortgage Planner.

#7) You Must NOT buy furniture, appliances, or household items before closing: Although many people are anxious to furnish their new home, during the loan process is NOT the right time. Large purchases causing deductions in your banking accounts or additional debt on credit cards can negatively affect your loan process resulting in delays or even denials. If this situation applies to you, please contact your Mortgage Planner.

#8) You Must NOT originate any inquiries into your credit: As mentioned before, multiple inquires into your credit may result in decreasing your credit score. As this applies to vehicles, furniture, appliances, and household items; it also applies to ANY credit checks Applying for additional lines of could negatively affect your ability to qualify for a home loan. If this situation applies to you, please contact your Mortgage Planner.

#9) You Must NOT make large deposits without first checking with your mortgage consultant: Abnormal deposits or large deposits into checking, savings, or any financial account beyond normal payroll deposits must have money sources verified by Underwriting. Making these deposits could result in loan processing delays or even denials. If this situation applies to you, please contact your Mortgage Planner.

#10) You Must NOT change bank statements. Because the loan process requires a 2 month history of reserve funds, opening new financial accounts near a closing date may void this history. New bank accounts will not have the 2 month history available and cannot be used. This may result in loan closing delays or denials. If this situation applies to you, please contact your Mortgage Planner.

Beautiful 4 Bedroom Home with a pool in Prairie Village only $319,000!

2011-07-29T13:07:00.000-05:00

Beautiful 4 Bedroom Home with a Pool in Prairie Village, KS only $319,000!!

Highly desired INDIAN FIELDS. Great street and gorgeous treed lot. Large EAT-IN KITCHEN has STAINLESS APPLIANCES & GRANITE COUNTERS with distinct, custom, RAW GRANITE FARMHOUSE STYLE SINK. Bright & open dining room & living room with fireplace. LARGE MASTER with LARGE WALK-IN CLOSET, tons of closet space, Granite in PRIVATE MASTER BATH. HUGE WALK-OUT BASEMENT to private backyard with two patio areas, gazebo & pool. Walkout basement has fireplace, wet bar, full bath and 4th Bedroom or great space for craft room, large office, or more.

Call 913-787-1870 for an immediate showing or more information on the area, plus other homes for sale from all listing companies.

Selling your home...beating the odds in a buyer's market: Home Improvements

2011-07-21T14:01:00.000-05:00

If you're thinking of listing your home, bookmark our blog and don't miss this series. Over the past few weeks, we've introduce you to some statistics and tips to help you view your house not as your home, but as the future home of the buyer you need to attract. Our first topic was Pricing to Sell Your Home...then it was all about Curb Appeal. Now, we're talking about Home Improvements. So click here for the scoop!

Market Insider is Here!!

2011-07-15T15:39:00.002-05:00

Get Market Insider for Valuable Data on Your Local Area

Introducing Market Insider, the FREE report that gives you valuable, customized, and up-to-date information on real estate trends in your local communities. Whether you're buying or selling a home, you'll have access to the data you need to make informed decisions in this ever-changing market.

Create a customized Market Insider report on the areas you care about most, and then sign up to receive FREE monthly updates. Market Insider provides home listing and sale prices, community demographics, school ratings, side-by-side neighborhood comparisons, and more!

Whether you are looking to sell and want local market data, or are thinking about buying and want to explore different homes and neighborhoods, here is a great resource for you!

For more information, and to discuss how to interpret this data for your situation, please reply by email or call!

View Market Insider

Market Insider's Powerful Resources for Buyers and Sellers

Market Insider offers a wealth of current information to help you make the best real estate decisions.

•Local real estate market data including current listings and recent sales

•Easy-to-use charts that clarify local price and market inventory trends

•Side-by-side comparisons of areas by zip code

•Maps, charts, and valuable insight into specific neighborhoods using income by household, criminal activity, education levels attained, and weather risks

•Neighborhood points of interest including shopping, restaurants, and healthcare services

•School district summary information and a map/grid of individual schools for your zip code

•Tips to help you better understand the factors that impact the real estate market

Become a "Market Insider" today!

The New Trend in Fixed Rate Mortgages...the 15 Year Loan

2011-07-07T19:04:00.000-05:00

How would you like an extra $125,000?

Last week, interest rates dropped to their lowest point in 2011. We saw fixed rates as low as 4.375% for 30 years, 4.25% for 20 years, and 3.75% for 15 years. We also saw adjustable rates as low as 2.875%! The current trend in fixed rate mortgages is to pay a little extra and get a 15 year loan instead of a 30 year. What's the advantage? Let's take a look:

If you have a 30 year mortgage of $200,000 at 5% interest, your payment would be $1,074 /mo (Principal & Interest only). If you refinanced that to (or start off with) a 15 year mortgage at 3.75%, your payment would be $1,454 /mo (P&I). For a difference of $380 /mo, you could pay your mortgage off in 15 years instead of 30 and build equity in your home much faster...an extra $21,593 in equity in just 3 years and $37,613 in 5 years. Not only that, but by paying off the loan in 15 years instead of 30, you would save $125,000!!

Sound intriguing? Give us a call or shoot us an email and we'll refer you to a Lender that will help you take advantage of today's low rates!!

New Price! Beautiful 4 Bedroom in Lakeview Estates, Shawnee, KS now only $385,000!

2011-07-01T09:06:00.001-05:00

Don't Miss This One ~ Gorgeous 4 Bedroom/3 Bath home in Lakeview Estates!!

Only $385,000!!!

SPECTACULAR LAKEFRONT HOME in small subdivision. The Builder custom built this home for his parents...only the best for Mom and Dad! Granite counters, new carpet, decorator paint colors...nothing skimped on. New $3500 TANKLESS Hot Water Heater, central vacuum system, custom lighting. Huge walkout finished basement, sun room overlooking the lake, main level office, workout room. This home has the most wonderful setting, you'll fall in love!

Email, call or text us (913-787-1870) for an immediate showing or more information on the area, plus other homes for sale from all listing companies.

OPEN HOUSE 6/26!! Charming 3 Bedroom Ranch in Overland Park only $120,000!!

2011-06-24T09:21:00.000-05:00

OPEN HOUSE THIS SUNDAY 6/26 from 12-3pm!!

Great 3 Bedroom Ranch in Overland Park...Only $120,000!!

Perfect 3 Bedroom Ranch only $120,000!!!

Bedrooms:	3	Bathrooms:	1
Home Size:	912 sq.ft.	Garage:	1
Lot Size:	9,202 sq.ft.	Community:	Maple Crest
County:	Johnson	Property Type:	Single Family Detached
Year Built:	1953	MLS Number:	1704148

Property Description

Here's your next home. Well cared for Overland Park Ranch with a large eat-in Kitchen, big bonus mud room/laundry room, and huge back yard and deck for entertaining or relaxing with family and friends. Just a block from Sante Fe Trails Elementary ... GREAT location. Call us to take a look or find out when the next Open House is. All measure & sqft are approx. Call 24hrs to 913/787-1870 for more details on this or any other property in the area. Schedule your showing today! Visit www.PickettPropertyGroup.com for more info and helpful FREE BUYER INFO.

Market Stats for Grey Oaks in Shawnee, KS

2011-06-16T11:37:00.001-05:00

The chart below is for the Grey Oaks subdivision in Western Shawnee. Keep in mind, that since this is still a community with new construction, there may be a few stats missing or skewed here and there, but overall, you can get a good idea what the market is like here:

If you live in Grey Oaks or are looking for homes in this area and have a question, please feel free to give us a call or send an email. We're here to help!

1989 vs 2011...Now really is the time to buy

2011-06-15T13:59:00.001-05:00

The affordability of homes is lower today than it has been in years...and to top it off, mortgages hit a historic low in 2010 and continue to remain at relatively low levels. Take a look at this chart to help put things in perspective:

The cost of a loaf of bread and a gallon of gas has more than tripled since 1989 and car prices have nearly doubled. While the median price of a new home has increased by 70%, mortgage interest rates, which stood at 10% back in 1989, are now less than half of what they were back then. The impact of today's super low interest rates is that the monthly mortgage payment on a median priced home in the US has increased by only $4 since 1989.

Unless a buyer is paying cash, the monthly payment tends to be a far more relevant number than the home's actual purchase price. So for buyers waiting for home prices to hit the floor, pay attention...the possibility of a slight drop in the price of a home will have very little impact on your monthly payment, while even a slight rise in interest rates (a more likely scenario) will have a huge impact on your finances.

Timing the market is never possible and in today's market, staying on the sidelines is more likely to result in a missed opportunity than a small savings. Buy now so you can look back and say, "I'm glad I did" rather than "I wish I had."

If you're looking to buy or are ready to put your home on the market, email, text, or give us a call. As a resident of nearby Grey Oaks, Pickett Property Group is your Western Shawnee expert.

K-7 and Johnson Drive Interchange Project Update-June 2011

2011-06-15T13:17:00.000-05:00

Attention, Western Shawnee residents! Weather permitting, on Thursday/Friday, June 16-17, new traffic changes are scheduled to take place on the K-7 and 55th Street/Johnson Drive interchange project in Johnson County. The traffic changes that are scheduled to occur are as follows:

· On Thursday, June 16, after morning rush hour (weather permitting), access from northbound and southbound K-7 to Clear Creek Parkway on the west side of K-7 will be closed to all traffic. Utility work as well as construction work will begin on the new bridge that will span over K-7 at Clear Creek Parkway.

· On Friday, June 17, before morning rush hour (weather permitting), 55th Street will be reopened to traffic for all through eastbound and westbound movements from 55th Street to Johnson Drive. Also, access from northbound K-7 to westbound 55th Street and from 55thStreet/Johnson Driver to southbound K-7 will be opened to all traffic at the same time. If there is any wet weather that occurs on Thursday, June 16, the 55th Street traffic changes will shift to sometime during the day on Friday, June 17, and will not be in place before morning rush hour.

Stay tuned for more information as the construction progresses.

Selling your home...beating the odds in a buyer's market: Curb Appeal

2011-06-09T14:16:00.000-05:00

If you're thinking of listing your home, bookmark our blog and don't miss this series. Over the next few weeks, we'll introduce you to some statistics and tips to help you view your house not as your home, but as the future home of the buyer you need to attract. Our first topic was Pricing to Sell Your Home...this week, it's all about Curb Appeal. So here's the skinny!

KW Research shows that approximately 47% of sellers enhance their curb appeal. Most spend between $150-1000 to make those first few seconds count for buyers who may be driving by or checking out photos online. What do they do?

73% trim trees and bushes
54% mulch
51% bring in new plants
44% wash windows
40% power wash
23% add a fresh coat of exterior paint
11% add new door hardware

For those sellers that DID enhance their curb appeal...

Had excellent results compared to only 68% of home without enhancements
Received their first offer 6 days faster
Sold 7 days faster...
...for 1.23 percentage points higher in the list-to-sell percent

In other words, first impressions really DO count! :)

Top 10 Most Common Home Inspection Concerns

2011-06-02T13:14:00.000-05:00

Buyers and sellers may think that their home is unique, but more often than not, home inspectors find that most home defects are very similar. Below are 10 common home defects that inspectors can typically identify. And it's a good idea to familiarize yourself with them, so that you can start planning ahead for repairs or work you may have to do if you are on the buying or selling side.

Poor Drainage: Inspectors will review whether water moves away from the house properly and/or whether the roof needs new gutters and downspouts. They will also check to see if ground-level drainage systems have been properly graded.
Faulty Electrical Wiring: If electrical wiring hasn't been properly installed or grounded, a home may be susceptible to fire and inhabitants may risk electrical shock. If you are looking at an older home, you will find they often need electrical upgrades, including new wiring and circuit breaker panels.
A Leaking Roof: Leaking roofs often result from poor flashing or aging shingles and roofing materials.
An Aging or Defective Heating System: Older heating systems may require maintenance and/or may be energy-inefficient. Non-electrical heating systems also run the risk of emitting carbon monoxide fumes, so a carbon-monoxide detector may be recommended.
Poor Maintenance: A DIY seller's "bandaid" fixes to plumbing, electrical, or other problems can sometimes do more harm than good.
Structural Damage: A leaking roof or settling foundation may mean doorways, walls, and support beams are off-kilter.
Plumbing Problems: Inspectors look for faulty pipes and fixtures, and also look at whether plumbing parts or made of compatible materials. Leak-prone polybutylene (PB) plumbing pipes may have to be replaced.
Water Seepage Through Windows and Doors: If there is evidence of water damage, then re-caulking windows and doors, adding weather-stripping or other more extensive repairs may be needed.
Poor Ventilation: Installing ventilation fans and keeping windows open can help, but buyers may find that they need to replace walls or other structural aspects of a home.
Hazardous Materials: Older homes may contain lead-based paint and asbestos materials. Depending on structure and climate, homes may also contain unhealthy levels of carbon monoxide, radon gas, or toxic molds.

Selling your home...beating the odds in a buyer's market: Pricing to Sell

2011-05-27T12:04:00.000-05:00

Now that school is out and summer is almost officially here, you'll start to see more and more homes pop up for sale. Unfortunately, not all sellers will know how to make the most of today's market. If you're thinking of listing your home, bookmark our blog and don't miss this series. Over the next few weeks, we'll introduce you to some statistics and tips to help you view your house not as your home, but as the future home of the buyer you need to attract. So let's get started!

Sellers can still get the highest possible list-to-sell ratio and sell their homes as quickly as possible if they are willing to put their trust in two time-tested principles of real estate: condition and price. These are the only two factors that sellers have control over, and they are the only two that buyers will care about the most.

Let's take a look at the top 10 pricing considerations first.

Buyer motivation - 75%
Condition of Home - 73%
School district - 66%
Updates/Upgrades - 62%
Seller motivation - 59%
Location - 59%
Features of home - 54%
Recently sold comps - 54%
Inventory - 44%
Price per square foot - 41%

As you can see, sellers have control over three: condition, updates, and price per square foot. And this is where your agent is key...work with them to establish the most competitive price. Here's why:

Based on Keller Williams Reasearch, 48% of Sellers priced their home according to their agent's interpretation of its market value. As a result, the listing:

Sold after 56 days on the market compared to 105 and sold 49 days faster.
Sold for 6.7 percentage points higher in the list-to-sell ratio. In other words, for a home listed at $200,000, that resulted in a list price-to-sell ratio of 96% vs. 89%. That's a difference of $13,400!
Sold for at least 1 less price reduction

Price your house right the first time and save yourself time and money!

A Must-See at this Price - Great 4 Bedroom Raised Ranch in Overland Park reduced to $180,000!

2011-05-22T09:14:00.000-05:00

Don't Miss This One!!

Now Reduced to $180,000!!

Bedrooms: 4 Bathrooms: 3.5 Home Size: 2,480 sq.ft. Garage: 2

Lot Size: 11,001 sq.ft. County: Johnson Property Type: Single Family Detached

Call 913-787-1870 24hr to schedule an immediate showing and find out when the next OPEN HOUSE is.

Wonderful raised Ranch in the heart of Overland Park on large treed corner lot. Well cared for and nicely updated. New Granite Counters, new paint, new doors, new flooring, updated bathrooms. Eat in Kitchen & Dining Rm. Main Level Laundry. FINSHED BASEMENT & upstairs HUGE bonus dormer bedroom or rec room with half bath. READY TO MOVE IN! Call Brett & Kim for an immediate showing or more information on the area plus other homes for sale from all companies.

Great 2 story in Colony Woods only $215,000!!

2011-04-28T14:06:00.000-05:00

Priced at $215,000

Perfect home and location for entertaining family and friends! Don't miss this one...schedule a showing today!

Bedrooms: 3 / Bathrooms: 3.1 / Home Size: 2,704 sq.ft. / Garage: 2

Lot Size: 13,329 sq.ft. / Community: Colony Woods

County: Johnson Co., KS / Property Type: Single Family Detached

Year Built: 1978 / MLS Number: 1722811
Beautiful 2 story in popular Colony Woods on large cul-de-sac lot! Two blocks to neighborhood park with basketball and tennis courts and a swimming pool. Two Master suites, both with full baths; one has a jet tub with 2-sided fireplace, a separate shower, toilet room, & dual vanity. Finished basement has a non-conforming 4th bedroom w/full bath, recreation room, and wet bar. Large yard, sprinkler system & large deck with screened porch, great for entertaining.

Call 913-787-1870 24hr to schedule an immediate showing and find out when the next OPEN HOUSE is.

Nearly One Acre! Beautiful 5 Bedroom Home in DeSoto, KS only $200,000!!

2011-04-18T16:08:00.000-05:00

Just listed at $200,000!!

If you're looking for space, but still want to live close to highways, shopping, and restaurants, then don't miss this one!

Bedrooms: 5 ~ Bathrooms: 3 ~ Home Size: 2,488 sq.ft. ~ Garage: 3

Lot Size: 37,461 sq.ft. ~ County: Johnson Co, KS ~ Property Type: Single Family Detached

Year Built: 1970 ~ MLS Number: 1722697

Great lot (near 1 acre) surrounded by forest & creek! 4th & 5th Bedroom on basement level (non-conforming) share a closet. 5th Bedroom currently used as an office. Expanded plan with huge Master suite, private Master bath & large walk-in closet. Large eat-in Kitchen with lots of cabinet space. Newly finished basement, all tile, plenty of room for play inside & out. Sqft approx. Award winning DeSoto schools and just minutes from K-7, K-10, shopping and restaurants!

Call 913-787-1870 24hr to schedule an immediate showing and find out when the next OPEN HOUSE is.

Did You Know...?

2011-03-21T11:48:00.000-05:00

...in the 1830's, ketchup was sold as a medicine. In an effort to boost sales, one enterprising manufacturer bottled it as Dr. Miles Compound Extract of Tomato, reputed to cure anything from baldness to athlete's foot, and all points in between.

Did You Know...

2011-03-20T15:35:00.000-05:00

Many people assume that pizza boxes are recyclable because they are made of corrugated cardboard. And in most cases, they really are. However, it's what goes inside that pizza box that makes parts of it non-recyclable...the grease, leftover toppings, and cheese from the pizza. Unless you remove the tainted portions, you're causing more harm than good.

Food is one of the worst contaminants in the paper recycling process. Grease and oil are not as big of a problem for plastic, metal and glass, as those materials are recycled using a heat process. But when paper products, like cardboard, are recycled, they are mixed with water and turned into a slurry. Since we all know water and oil don't mix, the issue is clear.

Grease from pizza boxes causes oil to form at the top of the slurry, and paper fibers cannot separate from oils during the pulping process. Essentially, this contaminant causes the entire batch to be ruined. It's for this reason that other food related items are non-recyclable (used paper plates, used napkins, used paper towels, etc). Some estimates put the costs of irresponsible contamination around $700 million per year!

So the next time you go to recycle your pizza box (or any recyclable container for that matter), take a good look inside, dump or rinse out any food particles and cut or tear out any soiled portions. Put those in your trash and recycle any remaining parts. The extra steps may take a few more minutes, but you'll be recycling with a guilt-free conscience.

Market Stats for Grey Oaks in Shawnee, KS

2011-03-19T08:22:00.002-05:00

The MLS we Realtors use here in Kansas City has come out with some new tools and I thought I'd share one of them with you today. They say a picture is worth a thousand words. Well, I'll let you be the judge in this case:

All of the charts below are for the Grey Oaks subdivision in Western Shawnee. Keep in mind, that since this is still a community with new construction, there may be a few stats missing or skewed here and there, but overall, you can get a good idea what the market is like here.

If you live in Grey Oaks or are looking for homes in this area and have a question, please feel free to give us a call or send an email. We're here to help!

Three Savvy Strategies to Selling Your Home

2011-03-18T11:31:00.000-05:00

Today's market is more of a buyer's market, meaning that there are more homes for sale right now than there are buyers. Homes typically take longer to sell and prices can fall. If you want to make sure that your home sells faster and for a higher list-to-sell percentage, then follow these steps:

Prepare the property to sell.

Consider a prelist home inspection to address any possible issues before your house goes on the market and take care of any repairs that may be needed. This will eliminate any surprises later on.
Upgrades always attract buyers...the most common include flooring, paint, light fixtures, appliances, and plumbing hardware.
On average, staged homes had 2 more showings and sold for a significantly higher list-to-sale percentage than homes that were not staged. This is more true for homes at a higher listing price. The most commonly staged rooms are the living room, kitchen, and master bedroom.

Price the property to sell.

The top factors when pricing your home are recently sold comps, active comps, condition of home and your motivation. Even price per square foot and age of the home can play a role.
Listen to your Realtor's [my ;)] advice. Sellers who followed Keller Williams associate's recommended price sold their homes 38 days faster. This translates to a savings of $1101.31 for a seller who originally bought their $200,000 home with 20% down and an interest rate of 6.5%.

Present the property to buyers.

Put yourself in the buyers' shoes. Believe it or not, 90% of buyers report using the Internet as a tool to search for homes that were for sale. And the buyers first impression are the pictures of your home. Before the Realtor takes photos of your home for the listing, take some yourself of each room in your home. How does your home look to you? If you're not impressed, the buyers won't be either. If you can't afford a stager, use the photos as a tool to see where your opportunities lie...clear out the clutter, dust, paint, etc. Your agent can help you in this area as well.
The top marketing tools we at Pickett Property Group use include: MLS, for sale signs, online placement (Trulia, Realtor.com, Craigslist to name a few), Open Houses, web listings with virtual tours, fliers, feedback forms, email, social media (our Blog, Twitter, Facebook), and QR codes.
Improve your curb appeal. Most buyers will drive by to view the home after seeing your listing online. So your curb appeal needs to draw potential buyers to want to see the inside of your home as well. Things like trimming bushes, adding fresh mulch or new landscaping, power-washing, washing windows, painting the exterior, updating door hardware, and even planting new sod can make a huge impact.

What does all of this mean for you? By applying these 3 strategies, it could potentially translate into more money in your pocket at closing time.

When you're ready to sell your home, contact us for a professional, yet straight-forward presentation. We put YOU first!

Kansas City Market Report for February 2011

2011-03-17T13:18:00.000-05:00

Here's a breakdown on the housing market in the Kansas City area:

We saw a decrease on the average new home price in February ($279,802), which was 4% lower than the same month last year. However, the average existing home price for last month is 4% higher at $127,449 than one year ago.

New home sales decreased 22% from last year and 2% from last month. Existing home sales also saw a decrease...down 7% from last year, but up 4% from last month.

There is still a slight buyer's edge present in the new home market, existing home and combined markets. Interest rates are still at historic lows, but are predicted to rise in 2011...so if you're currently "on the fence" this information may be of benefit. To see any of the available homes in nearby communities in Shawnee, Overland Park, Olathe, Leawood, DeSoto, Lenexa, Mission, Prairie Village, and more, email, text, or give us a call.

Just reduced!! Perfect 3 Bedroom Ranch in Overland Park now at $125,000!!

2011-03-16T15:21:00.000-05:00

Your New Home!! Great 3 Bedroom Ranch only $125,000!!!

Bedrooms:	3	Bathrooms:	1
Home Size:	912 sq.ft.	Garage:	1
Lot Size:	9,202 sq.ft.	Community:	Maple Crest
County:	Johnson	Property Type:	Single Family Detached
Year Built:	1953	MLS Number:	1704148

Property Description

Here's your next home. Well cared for Overland Park Ranch with a large eat-in Kitchen, big bonus mud room/laundry room, and huge back yard and deck for entertaining or relaxing with family and friends. Just a block from Sante Fe Trails Elementary ... GREAT location. Call us to take a look or find out when the next Open House is. All measurements and sqft are approx. Call 24hrs to 913/787-1870 for more details on this or any other property in the area. Schedule your showing today! Visit www.PickettPropertyGroup.com for more info and helpful FREE BUYER INFO.

Update to the March K-7 and Johnson Drive Interchange Project Update

2011-03-15T08:09:00.000-05:00

We've had a lot of rain, and a little snow, and as a result, the new traffic changes set to begin at the latest this week, have now been pushed back to the week of April 4th.

What do you have to look forward to? First of all, northbound and southbound K-7 will be reduced to one lane...moving you over to the new northbound lane so that crews can complete construction on the new southbound lanes. This will last through late fall, weather permitting.

Second, and this is a biggie, the east leg of Clear Ceek Parkway will be closed for bridge constuction that will take Clear Creek traffic over K-7. In other words, no more direct access to K-7 from Clear Creek. Detours will take you to either Shawnee Mission Parkway or 47th Street, depending on where your destination is.

Lastly, access from southbound K-7 to 55th Street will be closed through June 2011 (again, depending on the weather) while crews complete construction on the new southbound lanes.

I'll keep you posted on any other traffic updates for this ever changing area. If you have any questions, please feel free to email or give me a call!

Open House 3/13: Great 4 Bedroom Raised Ranch in Overland Park, KS...Come Say Hi!!

2011-03-12T10:08:00.000-06:00

If you're looking for the perfect home with 4 bedrooms, lots of space, and in a great neighborhood, then you must come by this Sunday, March 13th, and check out this one!

I'll be here from noon-4pm tomorrow to share info about the home and community, and to answer any questions you may have.

Come see the updates for yourself: freshly painted, granite counters, new flooring, and more! And talk about location!! Just minutes from popular shopping and restaurant destinations with quick and easy access to I-35, I-69, and I-435.

At $190,000, this is a must see! Call for directions: 913.787.1870. See you there!

Just Listed! 4 bedroom Raised Ranch in Overland Park only $190,000!

2011-03-11T11:48:00.001-06:00

Just $190,000!!

Bedrooms:	4	Bathrooms:	3.5
Home Size:	2,480 sq.ft.	Garage:	2
Lot Size:	11,001 sq.ft.	County:	Johnson
Property Type:	Single Family Detached	Year Built:	1960
MLS Number:	1717279

Property Description

Call 913-787-1870 24hr to schedule an immediate showing and find out when the next OPEN HOUSE is. Wonderful raised Ranch in the heart of Overland Park on large treed corner lot. Well cared for and nicely updated. New Granite Counters, new paint, new doors, new flooring, updated bathrooms. Eat in Kitchen & Dining Rm. Main Level Laundry. FINSHED BASEMENT & upstairs HUGE bonus dormer bedroom or rec room with half bath. READY TO MOVE IN! Call Brett & Kim for an immediate showing or more information on the area plus other homes for sale from all companies.

Why Home Ownership is Good for You

2011-03-11T11:17:00.001-06:00

Studies show that owning a home not only instills a sense of comfort and pride, but it also brings higher academic achievement, more cohesive communities, better connected families, improved health and safety, and a stronger economy. Home owners:

are 15% more likely to vote
live 4 times longer in a community
are 16% more likely to belong to parent-teacher organizations, book clubs, etc.
are 1.3 times more likely to read the newspaper
are 10% more likely to attend church
have a net worth 45.9 times that of a renter's

For more information, check out the National Association of Realtors' Field Guide to the Benefits of Home Ownership.

When you are ready to buy or sell your next home, please give us a call. No matter the need, Pickett Property Group can help!

K-7 and Johnson Drive Interchange Project Update-March 2011

2011-03-01T09:51:00.000-06:00

If Mother Nature decides to play nice over the next week or so, new traffic changes will be set to take place on the K-7 and Johnson Drive interchange project in Johnson County the week of March 7th or March 14th.

What do you have to look forward to? First of all, northbound and southbound K-7 will be reduced to one lane...moving you over to the new northbound lane so that crews can complete construction on the new southbound lanes. This will last through late fall, weather permitting.

Second, and this is a biggie, the east leg of Clear Ceek Parkway will be closed for bridge constuction that will take Clear Creek traffic over K-7. In other words, no more direct access to K-7 from Clear Creek. Detours will take you to either Shawnee Mission Parkway or 47th Street, depending on where your destination is.

Lastly, access from southbound K-7 to 55th Street will be closed through Aprill 2011 (again, depending on the weather) while crews complete construction on the new southbound lanes.

I'll keep you posted on any other traffic updates for this ever changing area. If you have any questions, please feel free to email or give me a call!

Home Buyer Tips: Low Down Payment

2011-02-15T10:59:00.001-06:00

Good news!! If you are a first-time homebuyer, you may not need a 20% down payment. According to a recent survey, nearly 75% of first time buyers only put down 3.5% or less. Of course, with interest rates still low, now is a great time to buy! Contact your mortgage professional for your situation; then give us a call to help get you started. Check out this video for more info:

February 2011 Market Snapshot

2011-02-14T14:33:00.001-06:00

Though we are only 2 months into the new year, signs are peeking everywhere that consumers are feeling better: an increase in the food & services industry indicate we're eating out more, vacations are on the rise due to an 8% increase in the travel industry, and believe it or not, household net worths are increasing thanks to a strong stock market and the focus on shrinking personal debt. What does this mean for the housing industry? For now, buyers can benefit from historically favorable buying conditions and sellers can enjoy increased stability in the market.

We are still seeing an upward trend in existing home sales activity. Though sales remained 2.9% below the level seen last year, this trend is a welcoming sign.

Home prices softened in December, down 1% from the year before, but mostly due to the number of distressed properties, which accounted for 36% of sales for that month. However prices continue to hold steady and mortgage rates remain historically low, offering favorable buying opportunities.

Keep in mind...as the ecomonic recovery stays the course, rates are expected to rise to keep inflation in check. So if you are looking to buy, don't wait! Now really is the time to take advantage of the market. Give us a call or email to schedule your appointment today.

Market Stats for Lakepointe in Shawnee, KS

2011-02-10T14:52:00.000-06:00

Lakepointe has several homes available right now if you're looking to live in Western Shawnee. Lakepointe currently has 8 active homes listed for sale ranging in price from $189,950 to $299,000, four to five bedrooms/2+ baths available. In the past 60 days, 3 homes have sold, with an average sale price of $244,333 and about 67 days on market. This is a great location and when the price is right, these homes will move.

Lakepointe is located in Western Shawnee, just off Johnson Drive and Monticello Road. This community is part of the Award Winning De Soto School District, has great highway access, and is close to restaurants and shopping.

To see any of the available homes in this neighborhood or any of the nearby communities in Shawnee, such as Crimson Ridge, Monticello Farms, Brittany Valley, Woodland Park, Brittany Heights, Grey Oaks, Woodsonia, Greens of Chapel Creek, Greenview Ridge, or Estates of Green View Ridge, email, text, or give us a call. As a resident of nearby Grey Oaks, Pickett Property Group is your Western Shawnee expert.

Why Now is a Great Time to Sell Your Home

2011-02-07T12:04:00.001-06:00

Some interesting statistics out now explain it best....Don't wait until Spring! NOW really is the time to sell your home. For starters, 89% of all homebuyers start their search on the internet and catering to those buyers will give you a jump on those sellers waiting until Spring. When there are fewer houses on the market, those that are priced right and staged well will stand out even more. On average, it takes about 12 weeks to sell a home, so those listed right now are in a better position to market to buyers looking to buy now and close in the Spring. Check out the video below for more information:

Snow and ice can be dangerous to your home

2011-02-01T10:46:00.000-06:00

As I sit here witnessing a blizzard outside my window, it's only appropriate that I bring up how this type of weather can wreak havoc on your home as well. Let's be honest, streets and sidewalks aren't the only areas that become dangerous when there's snow and ice.

According to many roofing experts, snow, ice, and strong winds could cause roofs to fail and collapse....think Metrodome in Minneapolis, MN this past December. But this could happen to residential homes as well.

Approximately 16 inches of snow equals about 20 extra pounds of weight per square foot. But if there's a layer of ice underneath, there's even more weight.

Growing up with winters in Minnesota as a child, I remember my dad climbing on top of the roof to shovel off snow and chip away at any ice in the gutters. HOWEVER, I do NOT recommend any homeowners try getting rid of it themselves. You'll just be adding even more weight to an already weighty issue and if the snow starts to slide, so will you! Call a professional if you hear any cracking or see any leaking in your home. They will have the right ladders, tools, and know-how. If you must do it yourself, invest in a roof rake. When used correctly, it's safe for your house and won't scratch your asphalt.

A Must See!! 3 Bedroom Ranch in Overland Park only $130,000!

2011-01-31T15:41:00.000-06:00

Perfect 3 Bedroom Ranch only $130,000!!!

Bedrooms:	3	Bathrooms:	1
Home Size:	912 sq.ft.	Garage:	1
Lot Size:	9,202 sq.ft.	Community:	Maple Crest
County:	Johnson	Property Type:	Single Family Detached
Year Built:	1953	MLS Number:	1704148

Property Description

Here's your next home. Well cared for Overland Park Ranch with a large eat-in Kitchen, big bonus mud room/laundry room, and huge back yard and deck for entertaining or relaxing with family and friends. Just a block from Sante Fe Trails Elementary ... GREAT location. Call us to take a look or find out when the next Open House is. All measurements are approximate. Check out the neighborhood here: View Larger Map Call 24hrs to 913/787-1870 for more details on this or any other property in the area. Schedule your showing today! Visit www.PickettPropertyGroup.com for more info and helpful FREE BUYER INFO.

Market Stats for Woodsonia in Shawnee, KS

2011-01-14T12:32:00.000-06:00

If you're looking to be a part of this great neighborhood , there are a few to choose from. Woodsonia currently has 6 active homes listed for sale ranging in price from $169,900 to $235,000, three to five bedrooms available. In the past 60 days, only two homes have sold, from $154,000 to $218,000, with an average cummulative days on market of 85.

Woodsonia is located in Western Shawnee, just off K-7 Highway and Johnson Drive. It features a neighborhood park, community pool, part of the Award Winning De Soto School District, great highway access, and close to restaurants and shopping.

To see any of the available homes in this neighborhood or any of the nearby communities in Shawnee, such as Crimson Ridge, Brittany Heights, Brittany Valley, Lakepointe, Woodland Park, Grey Oaks, Monticello Farms, Greens of Chapel Creek, Greenview Ridge, or Estates of Green View Ridge, email, text, or give us a call. As a resident of nearby Grey Oaks, Pickett Property Group is your Western Shawnee expert.

Market Stats for Clear Creek in Shawnee, KS

2011-01-14T12:03:00.000-06:00

Here is a community market snapshot of Clear Creek Community in Shawnee, KS. Clear Creek currently has 4 active homes listed for sale ranging in price from $229,900 to $310,000, four bedrooms available. In the past 60 days alone, 4 homes have sold with an average days on market of 63 days, which is great for this price point.

Clear Creek is located in Western Shawnee, just off Shawnee Mission Parkway and Johnson Drive. This community is part of the Award Winning De Soto School District, has great highway access, and is close to restaurants and shopping.

To see any of the available homes in this neighborhood or any of the nearby communities in Shawnee, such as Crimson Ridge, Brittany Heights, Brittany Valley, Lakepointe, Woodland Park, Grey Oaks, Woodsonia, Greens of Chapel Creek, Greenview Ridge, or Estates of Green View Ridge, email, text, or give us a call. As a resident of nearby Grey Oaks, Pickett Property Group is your Western Shawnee expert.

Market Stats for Lakepointe in Shawnee, KS

2011-01-14T11:44:00.000-06:00

Lakepointe has quite a few homes available right now if you're looking to live in Western Shawnee. Lakepointe currently has 7 active homes listed for sale ranging in price from $189,950 to $350,000, four to five bedrooms/2+ baths available. In the past 60 days, 6 homes have sold...ranging from $173,000 to $292,859 with an average of only 102 days on market, which is great for this price range and time of year. This is a great location and when the price is right, these homes will move.

Lakepointe is located in Western Shawnee, just off Johnson Drive and Monticello Road. This community is part of the Award Winning De Soto School District, has great highway access, and is close to restaurants and shopping.

To see any of the available homes in this neighborhood or any of the nearby communities in Shawnee, such as Crimson Ridge, Monticello Farms, Brittany Valley, Woodland Park, Brittany Heights, Grey Oaks, Woodsonia, Greens of Chapel Creek, Greenview Ridge, or Estates of Green View Ridge, email, text, or give us a call. As a resident of nearby Grey Oaks, Pickett Property Group is your Western Shawnee expert.

Things to Do in KC This Weekend: Last Call...Plaza Lights!

2011-01-14T11:12:00.000-06:00

It's that time of year again! The Plaza lights will be turned off Sunday to officially signal the end of another holiday season. Head down there this weekend and take in their beauty one last time...at least until November 2011, when you can see them come on all over again!

1 Minute Housing Market-January 2011

2011-01-11T20:24:00.001-06:00

Take 1 minute to update yourself on what is happening in your housing world. This month's eNewsletter is filled with local and national real estate sales and price activity provided by MLSs and the National Association of Realtors, U.S. Census Bureau key market indicators, consumer videos, blogs, real estate glossary, mortgage rates and calculators, consumer articles, and REALTOR.com local community reports.

To see your 1 Minute Housing Market eNewsletter, click here.

Market Stats for Woodland Park in Shawnee, KS

2011-01-08T10:29:00.000-06:00

Woodland Park has a few available homes to choose from if you're looking for something in Western Shawnee. Woodland Park currently has 3 active homes listed for sale ranging in price from $175,000 to $189,950, three bedrooms available. The average days on market for this community has been 109 days so far. However, nothing has sold here in the past 120 days. This is a great location and when the price and timing is right, these homes will move.

View Larger Map

Woodland Park is located in Western Shawnee, just off Shawnee Mission Parkway and Monticello Road. This community is part of the Award Winning De Soto School District, has great highway access, and is close to restaurants and shopping.

To see any of the available homes in this neighborhood or any of the nearby communities in Shawnee, such as Crimson Ridge, Monticello Farms, Brittany Valley, Lakepointe, Brittany Heights, Grey Oaks, Woodsonia, Greens of Chapel Creek, Greenview Ridge, or Estates of Green View Ridge, email, text, or give us a call. As a resident of nearby Grey Oaks, Pickett Property Group is your Western Shawnee expert!

Market Stats for Grey Oaks in Shawnee, KS

2011-01-07T13:35:00.001-06:00

As this time of year typically dictates, Grey Oaks in Shawnee, KS was pretty quite in terms of real estate activity over the holidays. If you're looking to be a part of this great neighborhood, there's a few resales to choose from, in addition to the new lots that are available in the next phase. Grey Oaks currently has 17 active homes listed for sale ranging in price from $265,000 to $485,000, four to five bedroom floorplans, with average cumulative days on market at 219 so far. In the past 60 days, only 1 home has sold and 1 home pending.

Grey Oaks is located in Western Shawnee, just off K-7 Highway and Johnson Drive. It features a neighborhood park, community pool, walking trails, part of the Award Winning De Soto School District, great highway access, and close to restaurants and shopping.

To see any of the available homes in this neighborhood or any of the nearby communities in Shawnee, such as Crimson Ridge, Brittany Heights, Brittany Valley, Lakepointe, Woodland Park, Woodsonia, Monticello Farms, Greens of Chapel Creek, Greenview Ridge, or Estates of Green View Ridge, email, text, or give us a call. As a resident of Grey Oaks, Pickett Property Group is your Western Shawnee expert.

You're Approved, Now What?!...Follow These Rules!

2011-01-04T12:20:00.000-06:00

I wrote about this subject a few months back, but feel it's important enough to revisit....so much so, that I'm re-posting the whole article and not just the link. These rules are applicable for being able to obtain approval for a home loan, but are even more important once you have that hot "you're approved" letter in your hands.

Getting approved for a home loan can be a nail-biting experience for some people. There's the whole uncertainty of the entire process, the waiting, and the overall anxiety that comes from getting approved for a home loan. However, below are some simple ways to calm your nerves and ease your fears regarding the process:

1. Pay Everything on Time! Even though this sounds pretty obvious, many borrowers will get so wrapped up in their every day lives that they will forget to pay a bill. A recent late pay on your credit report could increase the interest rate quoted for the home loan or worse...jeopardize your chances of getting the loan altogether. To avoid late pays, send yourself online reminders via your bank or internet calendar, write it down in your Day Planner, or post a sticky note on the bathroom mirror. Whatever way you choose to be organized, pay those bills.

2. Don't Pay Ahead. It's not necessary to have all your debts paid in full when you are ready to start the loan process. In some ways, having some debt with a good payment history can be stronger. There are some underwriting systems that will allow higher debt to income ratios, depending on the status of everything else in your file. Your mortgage planner can guide you here.

3. Save, Save, Save. However...should there be a debt that the underwriter wants to have paid off, having cash on hand will allow you to do that comfortably without jeopardizing yourself financially in other areas. In addition, just having the savings in general can be a positive factor in the loan approval process.

4. Do NOT Obtain New Debt! I know this one also sounds like a no-brainer, but there are people out there that believe once they have been pre-approved that they can start buying things for their new home...furniture, appliances, paint, etc. DON'T DO IT!! Additional debt can easily ruin a pre-approval. Wait until you close on your home.

Home Seller Tips: Condition

2011-01-03T19:22:00.000-06:00

When putting your house on the market, everyone wants their home to sell quickly...for top dollar and in the least amount of time possible. Yes, pricing and staging are obvious factors and key elements to do just that. But there is one more tip to help your home get noticed and sold fast. Check out the video below to learn more....

The Real Estate Market in 2011

2011-01-03T13:33:00.000-06:00

Everyone is wanting to know what is going to happen in real estate in the new year. Unfortunately, there is no way to predict one way or another, but there are signs out there indicating that the market is improving. Take a look at these recent statistics:

According to the National Association of Realtor, pending home sales rose 3.5% in November. Based on trends from the 5 months prior, this is indicating a gradual recovery into 2011. Affordable housing and the improvements in the economy are bringing buyers into the market.

The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage is forecast to rise gradually to 5.3% around the end of 2011; at the same time, unemployment should drop to 9.2%.

Existing-home sales are projected to rise about 8% to 5.2 million in 2011 from 4.8 million in 2010, with an additional gain of 4% in 2012. The median existing-home price could rise 0.6% to $173,700 in 2011 from $172,700 in 2010, which was essentially unchanged from 2009.

New-home sales are estimated to rise 24% to 392,000 in 2011, but would remain well below historic averages, while housing starts are forecast to rise 21% to 716,000.

While I can't guarantee any of these expectations, I can guarantee that if you are a motivated seller or buyer, WE are your motivated Realtors. Pickett Property Group is in this business to move houses...whether you are buying or selling. We will help you achieve your goals. Contact us today!

New Texting Law Takes Effect January 1st for Kansans

2011-01-01T19:59:00.001-06:00

You're not the only one making resolutions this year...so is the state of Kansas. Only, their's will stick! Starting today, January 1st, anyone caught texting, emailing, or IM-ing behind the wheel will be given a ticket...and in the city of Shawnee, it's going to cost you $110. Kansas is one of 30 states to enact the no texting-while-driving law.

To illustrate why this law is so important, check out these interesting facts below:

Texting while driving increases the risk of accident 23.2 times over unimpaired driving.

Texting while driving results in longer response times than even drunken driving. While an unimpaired driver can respond quickly to changes in traffic and begin braking within half a second, a legally drunk driver needs four additional feet to begin braking and a driver who’s texting needs 70 feet.

In the moments before a crash or near crash, drivers typically spend nearly five seconds looking at their mobile devices—enough time at typical highway speeds to cover more area than the length of a football field. (124 yards at 55 MPH)

Though 95 percent of drivers surveyed said texting behind the wheel was unacceptable and unsafe, at least 21 percent admit to doing it anyway.

Especially amongst teens, texting results in erratic driving behavior, like lane weaving and speeding up and down, increasing the likelihood of hurting pedestrians and running into other vehicles.

Texting behind the wheel is generational: 37 percent of drivers 18 to 27 admit to texting while driving, compared to 14 percent of 28 to 44 year olds, and 2 percent of 45 to 60 year olds.

An accident can happen in two to three seconds while texting.

Let's make this a year of responsible cell phone use.

Rising Rates Will Impact Home Affordability

2010-12-31T15:31:00.001-06:00

Buyers who have been waiting for that perfect deal on a home are now finding themselves in a more costly predicament. Record low interest rates over the past few months have made it the best time to buy a home in the fifty years...unfortunately, it doesn't look like they are going to hang around much longer.

Those who “choose to wait until prices come down more” are gambling that interest rates will hold steady or drop. However, the truth is even a 10 percent drop in home prices is nullified by a 1 percent increase in interest rates. The figure below illustrates how this works for a $250,000 home purchase and the relative likelihood of each scenario.

When thinking about which is more likely: an increase in mortgage rates or a further drop in home prices...consider the findings below based on the last ten years of monthly home price and mortgage interest rate data:

1. A one percent increase in mortgage rates is ten times more likely to happen than a ten percent drop in home prices.

2. A one percent rate increase more than offsets a ten percent reduction in home prices.

3. When interest rates fall by one percent, the total interest paid is almost three times more than the interest savings from a ten percent drop in home prices.

4. The probability of both happening at the same time is ridiculously small, and homeowners would still pay 15 percent more in interest over the life of the loan.

Interest rates have dominated the news in recent months as we’ve shattered record low after record low. Potential home buyers need to understand the positive financial impact low interest rates have on the cost of home ownership and the thousands of dollars that can be saved over the life of a typical mortgage loan.

When you're ready to list your home or if you're looking to buy, feel free to give us a call. We've helped hundreds of families and we'd love to help you! Email, text, or give us a call anytime...913.787.1870 or PickettPropertyGroup.com.

Home Seller Tips: Staging

2010-12-28T22:46:00.000-06:00

Studies have shown that it takes about a twentieth of a second for Web surfers to make a decision about a site (so I may have lost some of you already) and only about seven seconds to make a good first impression in person. Believe it or not, this includes homes too!

Within seconds after entering a home, potential homebuyers are already deciding whether or not they want to buy your home. Your goal is to create an inviting, beautiful, spacious atmosphere that will create that emotional "I want to make an offer" trigger. How do you do that? Simple...through staging.

Check out this short video below to see what staging can mean for your wallet:

Read my previous post for 10 Tips to Staging Your Home. When you're ready to list your home or if you're needing some help getting it ready, feel free to give us a call. We've helped hundreds of families prep their homes for the market and we'd love to help you! Email, text, or give us a call anytime...913.787.1870 or PickettPropertyGroup.com.

Great 3 Bedroom Ranch in Overland Park...Only $130,000!!

2010-12-27T09:06:00.000-06:00

Perfect 3 Bedroom Ranch only $130,000!!!

Bedrooms:	3	Bathrooms:	1
Home Size:	912 sq.ft.	Garage:	1
Lot Size:	9,202 sq.ft.	Community:	Maple Crest
County:	Johnson	Property Type:	Single Family Detached
Year Built:	1953	MLS Number:	1704148

Property Description

Here's your next home. Well cared for Overland Park Ranch with a large eat-in Kitchen, big bonus mud room/laundry room, and huge back yard and deck for entertaining or relaxing with family and friends. Just a block from Sante Fe Trails Elementary ... GREAT location. Call us to take a look or find out when the next Open House is. All measure & sqft are approx. Call 24hrs to 913/787-1870 for more details on this or any other property in the area. Schedule your showing today! Visit www.PickettPropertyGroup.com for more info and helpful FREE BUYER INFO.

Happy Holidays!

2010-12-25T19:19:00.000-06:00

During this holiday season, our thoughts turn gratefully to those who have made our success possible. As Real Estate Consultants, there is no greater pleasure for my wife and I than helping our clients achieve their Real Estate dreams...whether it's selling their home so they can move closer to family or buying a new home to make room for baby #2. It is in this spirit we say...

Thank you! Best wishes for the holidays and a Happy New Year!!

Jumping Home Sales and Why Buying is REALLY Better Than Renting

2010-11-16T11:06:00.000-06:00

Interest rates are starting to climb and now we're hearing talk of that ugly word...inflation! And believe me, once inflation starts increasing, the rates are going to go up right along with it. With the holidays literally right around the corner, NOW really is the time to buy. Interest rates are still low and there is fewer competition. And if you're currently renting, this means even more for you!

Check out this short video below to learn the "secrets" of home ownership:

Market Stats for Grey Oaks in Shawnee, KS

2010-11-11T13:35:00.000-06:00

Grey Oaks in Shawnee, KS has been busy in terms of real estate activity this Fall. If you're looking to be a part of this great neighborhood, there's still quite a few to choose from. Grey Oaks currently has 17 active homes listed for sale ranging in price from $262,900 to $399,950, four to five bedroom floorplans for the picking. In the past 30 days alone, 3 homes have sold ($268,000 to $342,480) with an average days on market of 260 days, and 4 more homes are pending.

Grey Oaks is located in Western Shawnee, just off K-7 Highway and Johnson Drive. It features a neighborhood park, community pool, walking trails, part of the Award Winning De Soto School District, great highway access, and close to restaurants and shopping.

To see any of the available homes in this neighborhood or any of the nearby communities in Shawnee, such as Crimson Ridge, Brittany Heights, Brittany Valley, Lakepointe, Woodland Park, Woodsonia, Monticello Farms, Greens of Chapel Creek, Greenview Ridge, or Estates of Green View Ridge, email, text, or give us a call. As a resident of Grey Oaks, Pickett Property Group is your Western Shawnee expert.

Markest Stats for Woodsonia in Shawnee, KS

2010-11-11T13:25:00.000-06:00

If you're looking to be a part of this great neighborhood , now is the time. Woodsonia currently has 9 active homes listed for sale ranging in price from $135,000 to $245,000, three to five bedrooms available. In the past 30 days, only one home has sold at $225,000.

Woodsonia is located in Western Shawnee, just off K-7 Highway and Johnson Drive. It features a neighborhood park, community pool, part of the Award Winning De Soto School District, great highway access, and close to restaurants and shopping.
To see any of the available homes in this neighborhood or any of the nearby communities in Shawnee, such as Crimson Ridge, Brittany Heights, Brittany Valley, Lakepointe, Woodland Park, Grey Oaks, Monticello Farms, Greens of Chapel Creek, Greenview Ridge, or Estates of Green View Ridge, email, text, or give us a call. As a resident of nearby Grey Oaks, Pickett Property Group is your Western Shawnee expert.

Market Stats for Monticello Farms in Shawnee, KS

2010-11-11T13:02:00.000-06:00

Monticello Farms, a Rodrock Community, is cooling off in terms of real estate. Monticello Farms currently has 3 active homes listed for sale ranging in price from $194,000 to $210,000, four bedrooms available. In the past 30 days, only 1 home has sold with an average days on market of 21 days.
Monticello Farms is located in Western Shawnee, just off Shawnee Mission Parkway and Monticello Road. This community is part of the Award Winning De Soto School District, has great highway access, and is close to restaurants and shopping.

To see any of the available homes in this neighborhood or any of the nearby communities in Shawnee, such as Crimson Ridge, Brittany Heights, Brittany Valley, Lakepointe, Woodland Park, Grey Oaks, Woodsonia, Greens of Chapel Creek, Greenview Ridge, or Estates of Green View Ridge, email, text, or give us a call. As a resident of nearby Grey Oaks, Pickett Property Group is your Western Shawnee expert.

Why Some Houses Sit While Others Sell

2010-11-09T13:39:00.000-06:00

I did a post on this a few months ago, but thought it was worth revisiting. Pricing is critical. Especially in today's market, pricing can either bring you many showings but no offers (bleh!), send you multiple offers from multiple buyers (which is ideal!), or it can put your home out of consideration all together (bad!!). In simple terms, houses that are priced well and in good condition sell. Houses that aren't...sit...and sit...and sit. And I make sure my clients understand this. I'd rather be upfront and honest, than tell them what they want to hear.

Check out this short video to see how a successful pricing strategy will make your house stand out from the crowd.

When you're ready to list your home or if you have a question, please call, email, or text us...we're here to help!

Selling Your House? See What Home Buyers Really Look For

2010-11-02T14:19:00.000-05:00

Watch this short :33 second video to see what recent studies show home buyers look for in their next home:

Things to Do in KC This Weekend (Part 2): Anything and Everything Halloween

2010-10-28T22:22:00.000-05:00

Here it is, folks! Your 2010 Kansas City Halloween Guide:

FREE Scary Face Pancakes October 29 at IHOP Restaurants across the Metro. Children 12 and under enjoy a FREE Scary Face Pancakes at IHOP. One per child, dine-in only. www.ihop.com/oct2010.html

Face It October 29 from 1-3:00 PM at Gregg/Klice Community Center. Halloween fun for all ages. Have a fun-filled time playing games, make a fun mask and receive a treat bag. 816.513.0651 www.kcmo.org/parks

Friday Fright Night October 29 from 6:00 to 9:00 PM at Oak Grove Park, 76th and N. Troost in Gladstone, MO. There is no charge for this event and it is open to the general public. Local vendors will pass out candy while kids enjoy scary and “non-scary” stories presented by the River & Prairie Story Weaver, and much more fun. New for this year is a special presentation by StoneLion Puppets. Marionettes will perform “Bone-yard Jamboree” for your scaring pleasure. So, put on your best Halloween suit, load the family in the car and be prepared…to be scared! If you need additional information, please call the Gladstone Parks & Recreation Department at 816.423.4091.

Halloween Party October 29 at 5:00 PM at Martha Lafite Thompson Nature Sanctuary. Dress as your favorite family friendly character and celebrate the pumpkin growers of Martha Lafite. Have fun and make a donation. 816.781.8598 www.naturesanctuary.com/calendar.html

FREE Fall Festival October 29 from 6-9:00 PM at First Family Church. Bible Character Theme Fun for the Entire Family! Moon Bounce and Obstacle Course, Hayrides, Face Painting, Food, Silent Auction, Gifts, Family Photo, Crafts, Live Comedy, and loads of candy! Wear costumes and bring friends. 913.681.3341

Spirits of the Past October 29 & 30 from 6-9:00 PM at Missouri Town 1855. It’s thrilling … it’s chilling … it’s Missouri Town’s Halloween Happening. In this eerie 1850’s village, only luminaries light the way. Walk through the moonlit town, if you dare, and hear spine-tingling tales over a century old. Wood fires are burning and witches cauldrons are churning. Children’s games, storytelling around bonfires, trick-or-treating and a haunting hayride are just a part of the spooktastic time awaiting you. $9.00 per person. Advance reservations only. 816.503.4860 www.jacksongov.org

Boo at the Zoo October 30 & 31 at the Kansas City Zoo. Boo at the Zoo! Trick or Treat at Boo at the Zoo! Bring the whole family and get into Halloween with different Trick or Treat stations around the Zoo! It’s a safe, family friendly way to enjoy Halloween. Children of all ages are welcome in their costumes and at 1 and 3 p.m, join us for a costume parade around the Zoo led by Kaz the Cheetah. Tour the Boneville Graveyard, the New Haunted Woods of the Valley, a Jack-o-Lantern display, ride the Scarecrow Train Express, see a “spooky” animal show and much more! 816.513.5800 www.kansascityzoo.org

Halloween Trick or Treat October 30 all day in Historic Downtown Parkville. All witches, ghosts, goblins and ghouls, (and pirates, too) are invited to trick or treat at participating shops and businesses. parkvillemo.org/halloween.html

Haunted Halloween in the Park October 30 at 11:00 AM at Macken Park. Please join North Kansas City Parks and Recreation for Haunted Halloween in the Park. You will enter Snoopy’s haunted dog house, paint a pumpkin picked from Macken’s Pumpkin Patch. There will be various spooky games like witch hat ring toss, ooey gooey coffin, bean bag black kettle toss, and musical gourd. There will be balloon artists, DJ, caricature artist and many more scary surprises. There will also be hot dogs, cotton candy and orange slushies. 816.300.0547

Whole Foods Market Halloween Party October 30 from 11:00AM-2:00 PM at Whole Foods Market on 91st and Metcalf. Kids, come in your Halloween costumes to parade around the store visiting each department for a special treat. Enjoy live music, face painting, crafts, and lots of FUN. 913.652.9633. www.wholefoodsmarket.com/metcalf

Halloween at Toys R Us. October 30 from Noon - 3:00PM. Celebrate Halloween with Toys''R''Us! Personalize your Halloween bag with Crayola's Glow Explosion, make a Safety Pledge get a free giveaway!

Spooktactular Face Painting Paradise October 30 at 2:00 PM at South Independence Branch Mid-Continent Public Library. Transform into your favorite character or design of choice! Face Painting like you have never seen before! Experience the thrill of Face Painting Paradise, uniquely artistic entertainment for ages 1 to 101! Painting memories and fun for everyone! All ages. Registration required. 816.461.2050 www.mymcpl.org

Halloween Party October 30 at 2:00 PM at Red Bridge Branch Mid-Continent Public Library. You are invited to come in costume for a fun afternoon of games and treats. Registration is required. 816.942.1780 www.mymcpl.org

Historical Hauntings October 30 from 6-8:30 PM at Shawnee Town Museum. For a ghoulishly good time for the whole family, head to Historical. There will be hayrides, candy for the kids, costume contests for all ages, eyeball counting games with prizes and more. Free, a Harvesters donation is requested. 913.248.2360 www.shawneetown.org

Family Fright Night October 30 at 6:30 PM at Oak Grove Civic Center. Come up to the Civic Center for some safe Halloween fun! Previous events have gone boo-tifully and we plan to improve more this year. We will have several booths with activities to participate in, prizes to win, a special costume contest and maybe a scary surprise! Kids make sure to wear your costume. $3 per child. 816.690.4003 ext. 12 www.cityofoakgrove.com

BOO-B-Q October 31 at Backfire BBQ, The Legends at Village West. Kids and grown ups alike are encouraged to dress in their best costume while joining the spook-fest on Backfire’s spacious patio featuring creepy decorations, candy giveaways and face painting. The party will include a whole succulent pig roasting on the spit. The hog will be steaming, ready to enjoy with a refreshing Boulevard beer. Furthermore, Backyard BBQ’s famous sides of pit smoked beans and grilled corn on the cob with barbecue butter will be served along with the pork. The cost is $10.95 for adults and $5.95 for kids. Also, free ice cream will be given to kids wearing costumes in the dining room! http://www.backfirebarbeque.com/
A Legendary Halloween October 31 12:30-3:30 PM. Bring the entire family out to Legends Outlets for FREE Legendary Halloween. Enjoy safe trick-or-treating, a Halloween Costume Parade and Contest, bounce houses, obstacle courses, clowns, pony rides and so much more! Visit www.LegendsShopping.com for details.

Russell Stover FREE Halloween Candy Giveaway October 31 from 2-4:00 PM (2814 Shawnee Mission Parkway, Fairway, KS). Russell Stover Candies Retail Store will host the 2nd Annual Children’s Halloween Party. Festivities include face painting, games, and special prizes for costume contests by age group (3 years and under, 4-5 years, 6-8 years, 9-11 years, 12-15 years). www.russellstover.com

Halloween Party October 31 from 2:30-4:30PM at the Johnson County Museum. Wear your costume for Halloween fun at the Johnson County Museum! Make a craft to take home. Halloween treats will be provided for kids. Fee: FREE! 913.715.2550 www.JoCoMuseum.org
Ghouls and Goblins to Invade Gladstone Boulevard October 31 from 5-8. Beware of “creatures of the night” haunting the Historic Scarritt Renaissance Neighborhood and The Kansas City Museum on All Hallows’ Eve during the 17th annual Halloween in Historic Northeast. The Scarritt Renaissance Neighborhood Association and the Museum will team up to satisfy the taste buds of the spooky ghosts and goblins from 5-8 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 31 or until the candy runs out! The Museum and neighborhood “safe houses” along Gladstone Boulevard will be open for trick-or-treating. Museum staff will be located at the South Gate handing out tasty Halloween treats. Many of the homes will be transformed into eerily decorated “haunted houses,” and the neighborhood will have costumed entertainers “skulking around.” There will also be a live chalk art demonstration, a balloon artist, face painting, juggling, inflatables and so much more, all for free! The Museum will also host its second annual “Princess Costume Contest” at the southeast corner of the Museum. With an entry fee of only entrants’ mailing and e-mail addresses, princesses, with their parent’s permission, will be photographed in their beautiful princess costumes. Winners will be selected by members from the Friends of Kansas City Museum and the Kansas City Museum’s Fairy Princess. www.unionstation.org/KansasCityMuseum
Boo at The View! October 31 at 5:30 PM at The View in Grandview. Boo at The View: Second Annual Trunk-or-Treating experience at The iew! Hay rides, (weather permitting) and glow sticks will be for sale! Get your picture taken with The Great Pumpkin! Egg hunt for the wee goblins at 5:30 pm, and again at 7:30 pm for the older goblins! Children up to age 10 must be accompanied by an adult. Participants who volunteer to Trunk or Treat will have a chance to win a free annual membership for up to a family of four! Register your entry with the Front Desk (316-4888). Judges will look for the best decorated car and participant, and award the free annual family membership! 816.316.4888 www.grandview.org

Walk With the Civil War Spirits October 31 at 6:30 PM at Lone Jack Battlefield Park. Come listen to the stories of the Civil War through the memories of the spirits who lived them. 816.805.1815 www.historiclonejack.org

Trick or Treat & Trunk or Treat Events:

Trunk ‘N Treat : Platte County North YMCA October 29 at 5:30 PM at the Platte County Community Center North operated by the YMCA. Celebrate Halloween at Platte County Community Center North! Join us for Trunk-n-Treat complete with games to a trick or treat extravaganza, your family is sure to have a SPOOK-TACULAR time at our seventh annual Trunk-n-Treat. If you are interested in setting up your trunk at the event, call 816.858.0114. www.kansascityymca.org

Trunk ‘N Treat : Platte County South YMCA October 29 at 6:00 PM, Platte County Community Center South operated by the YMCA. Celebrate Halloween at Platte County Community Center South! Join us for Trunk 'n' Treat complete with games to a trick or treat extravaganza, your family is sure to have a spook-tacular time at our seventh annual Trunk-n-Treat event. If you are interested in setting up your trunk at the event, call 816.505.2622. www.kansascityymca.org

Trick-or-Cache October 30 at 9:00 AM at Antioch Park. Come experience Trick-or-Caching this Halloween! Learn to use Global Positioning Systems (GPS) to track a cache in a fun, relaxed enviornment. GPS units will be provided on this modern day scavenger hunt for Halloween treats. Children under 16 years of age must be accompanied by an adult. Only one GPS unit given per person or one per family. Don't forget your costume! Join us after your haunted hunt for some gooey s'mores around the campfire. Don't know how to geocache? Don't worry! We'll teach you how! Participants will meet in shelter 2 for a brief GPS "how to" overview before departing on this wicked adventure! Space is limited so register early. Pre-registration is required. $10/person or $15/family of four or less. 913.826.3160 www.jcprd.com

Halloween Parade October 30 at 10:00AM at Downtown Lee's Summit Main Street. Children are invited to put on their costumes and join in the parade from City Hall Plaza to Howard Station Park. After the parade, children are welcome to trick-or-treat at participating downtown businesses. Awards will be given out for the best costumes. FREE. 816.246.6598

Halloween Howl October 30 at 10:00 AM at Zona Rosa. Come out to KidZone at Zona Rosa and howl with the Road Crew at Radio Disney's Halloween Howl!! Dress up in your favorite costume and get ready for some frightfully friendly fun! Decorate a mini pumpkin, sing in the Radio Disney "Howl" a-long, participate in the Monster Mash dance off, and show off your Halloween attire in the 2nd annual Costume Conga Line! Plus, one V.I.K member will receive the ultimate Halloween prize pack loaded with current Radio Disney prizes! 816.587.8180 www.zonarosa.com

“Boo”-Springs Harvest Fest October 30 at 10:00 AM in Blue Springs. Downtown merchants open their businesses and store fronts for area children to trick-or-treat in a fun and safe environment. Booths are setup for activities including games, kids crafts, face painting, an inflatable and haunted maze. This event is free to the public. 816.228.0137 www.bluespringsgov.com

Trick or Treating and Halloween Parade October 30 at 1:00 PM at Independence Square. Square shops with balloons displayed outside will welcome miniature ghosts and goblins for trick or treating from 1-3 pm. Stick around for the Halloween Parade, sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce, beginning at 3 p.m. About one hundred entries, ranging from clowns to marching bands and floats, are expected and prizes will be awarded. 816.461.0065 www.theindependencesquare.com

Trick-or-Treating in Downtown OP October 30 from 2-5:00 PM in Downtown Overland Park. Trick-or-Treat with participating merchants anytime between 2 and 5 p.m. No need to register. Simply bring your little goblins armed with a bag to hold their goodies! Enjoy a family-friendly band and all the friendly merchants. www.downtownop.org/event.html

Trick or Treat Off the Street October 30 at 4:00 PM at Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop and Farm. Trick or treat on the Mahaffie grounds. Admission $3/all ages, no registration required. 913.971.5111 www.mahaffie.org

Trunk ‘N Treat : Bonner Springs YMCA October 30 at 5:00 PM, Bonner Springs YMCA. Come join the Boo Bash fun at the Bonner Springs YMCA! Enjoy games and a trick or treat extravaganza, your family is sure to have a SPOOKTACULAR time at our Trunk-n-Treat. If you are interested in setting up your trunk at the event, call our welcome center at 913.422.9348. www.kansascityymca.org

Boo Bash! : Red Bridge YMCA October 30 from 6-8:00 PM, Red Bridge Family YMCA. Celebrate Halloween at the YMCA! Join us for Trunk-n-Treat 6-8 p.m. Saturday, October 30. From fun games to a trick or treat extravaganza, your family is sure to have a SPOOKTACULAR time at our Trunk-n-Treat. If you are interested in setting up your trunk at the event, call our welcome center at 816.942.2020. Admission is $2 for members or $4 for community participants. www.kansascityymca.org

Trick & Treat for Kids: Briarcliff Village October 31 at Briarcliff Village. Bring children in costume and enjoy trick-or-treating with the merchants along with Pumpkin Painting, Witches Brew, Apple Cider, Pop-Corn and meet Mr. Asparagus! www.briarcliffvillagekc.com

Trick or Treat Trail October 31 at 3:00 PM at Matt Ross Community Center. Boo! Our “Pumpkin Patch” and "Apple Orchard" are back and will amaze you! Join MRCC for its third annual safe night of trick-or-treating. Kids of all ages are welcome to attend the free festivities. You'll have to stop by to check out all the new features. Candy, crafts, games, toys, plus much more will make this Halloween Spooktacular. You’ll also have the chance to talk with real-life police officers and fire-fighters! Free. 913.895.6390 www.opkansas.org

Trunk or Treat October 31 at 3:00 PM Grace Church of Overland Park. Trunk or Treat. Be a part of Grace's largest community outreach event. Start planning your decorations now! This year will include a costume contest for individuals and group/family categories as well. There will be a contest for the best decorated trunk; winner will be granted the use of a specially designated parking spot for one year. Free. 913.814.7223 www.visitgracechurch.com

Trunk or Treat October 31 at 3:00 PM at Red Bridge United Methodist Church. Trick or treat safely in the lower level parking lot of Red Bridge UMC, automobile trunks decorated in the spirit of the season, free candy, free chili supper and games for the little ones. Free. 816.942.2456 http://www.redbridgeumc.com/

Trick or Treat Street October 31 at 6:00 PM at Vesper Hall in Blue Springs. Have a safe and fun Halloween. Kids ages 10 and under can trick or treat from different booths set up by local merchants and organizations. Activities include crafts, gross stuff room, and the not-so-spooky mirror room. Don’t forget to wear your costume and bring a sack for goodies! This special event is co-sponsored by Sunset Optimist Club of Blue Springs. 816.228.0137 http://www.bluespringsgov.com/

Westside Family Church: FamFest & Trunk or Treat will be a family fun event that will take place at the Lenexa Campus on Sunday, October 31 from 3-7pm. Blow-ups, slides, train and small rides will be available for kids from 3-6pm on property and throughout the building. From 6-7pm our parking lot will be set aside for kids to go trunk to trunk with their parents for treats.

2009-10 Kansas Assessments: Johnson County High Schools

2010-10-28T14:10:00.000-05:00

If you're considering a move to Johnson County in Kansas and were wondering about the education system, here is one more source to help you out. Students participate in the Kansas Assessments Program each year to measure academic progress. Those interested in USD 232 should take special note: Both High Schools (DeSoto and Mill Valley) scored at 95% or higher in all 3 categories. Below is a chart highlighting the Kansas Assessments for Johnson County High Schools:

How do high schools compare in Johnson County?

2009-10 Kansas Assessments: Johnson County High Schools

Percentage of students meeting or exceeding state standards.

Reading

High School / Ranking %

1 De Soto - De Soto H.S.(3rd year in a row) 98.7

2 Blue Valley North 98.4

3 St. James 97.6

4 Spring Hill 97.2

5 De Soto - Mill Valley H.S. 97.1

6 Blue Valley 96.8

7 Olathe East 96.2

8 Shawnee Mission South 95.9

9 Blue Valley West 95.6

10 Shawnee Mission East 95.3

11 Blue Valley Northwest 95.3

12 St. Thomas Aquinas 95

13 Olathe Northwest 94.8

14 Olathe South 94

15 Shawnee Mission West 93.2

16 Gardner-Edgerton 92.7

17 Shawnee Mission Northwest 92.5

18 Olathe North 91.2

19 Bishop Meige 91

Science

High School / Ranking %

1 Shawnee Mission East 98

2 De Soto - Mill Valley H.S. 97.8

3 St. Thomas Aquinas 97.7

4 Spring Hill 97.7

5 Blue Valley 97.1

6 Blue Valley West 96.6

7 Gardner-Edgerton 96.2

8 Blue Valley Northwest 94.8

9 Blue Valley North 94.2

10 Shawnee Mission Northwest 94.1

11 Shawnee Mission South 93.5

12 Olathe Northwest 90.4

13 Olathe East 90.1

14 De Soto - De Soto H.S. 89.7

15 Shawnee Mission West 89.5

16 Olathe North 88.3

17 Olathe South 88.1

18 Bishop Meige 86.5

19 St. James n/a

Math

High School / Ranking %

1 Blue Valley 98

2 Blue Valley North 96.1

3 De Soto - Mill Valley H.S. 95.2

4 Blue Valley West 95

5 Blue Valley Northwest 94.9

6 St. Thomas Aquinas 94.4

7 Shawnee Mission East 93.7

8 Olathe Northwest 93

9 Shawnee Mission Northwest 92.5

10 Gardner-Edgerton 91.8

11 Olathe East 91.4

12 Shawnee Mission South 91.1

13 St. James 90.8

14 Olathe South 90.8

15 De Soto - De Soto H.S. 90.7

16 Spring Hill 89.4

17 Shawnee Mission West 85.9

18 Olathe North 83.5

19 Bishop Meige 71.4

When you're ready to buy or list your home, feel free to give us a call. We've helped hundreds of families find their perfect home and we'd love to help you! Email, text, or give us a call anytime...913.787.1870 or PickettPropertyGroup.com.

Making the Grade? See a Report Card on your Kansas School/District

2010-10-28T13:38:00.000-05:00

If you're considering a move to Johnson County in Kansas and were wondering about the education system, here is one little source to help you out. Students participate in the Kansas Assessments Program each year to measure academic progress. The challenge of the No Child Left Behind legislation is the continuous raising of the achievement bar so that all students are proficient.
The report cards are very detailed and provide data for each grade level participating in the assessments. The links below take you directly to each report, which is provided by the Kansas State Department of Education.
REPORT CARDS

When you're ready to buy or list your home, feel free to give us a call. We've helped hundreds of families find their perfect home and we'd love to help you! Email, text, or give us a call anytime...913.787.1870 or PickettPropertyGroup.com.

USD 232 Leads Johnson County in Graduation Rate

2010-10-28T13:12:00.000-05:00

If you're considering a move to Johnson County in Kansas, especially Western Shawnee, and were wondering about the education system, here is one little source to help you out. The Kansas State Department of Education measures graduation rates for every school district. This information is released annually on each district's report card. Below is the 2009-10 graduation rate for USD #232, Blue Valley, Olathe, Shawnee Mission, Gardner-Edgerton, and Spring Hill.

Class of 2010

De Soto USD 232 = 97.6%

Blue Valley = 97.4%

Spring Hill = 95.7%

Olathe = 94.8%

Shawnee Mission = 92.1%

Gardner-Edgerton = 91.2%

When you're ready to buy or list your home, feel free to give us a call. We've helped hundreds of families find their perfect home in a stress-free environment and we'd love to help you! Email, text, or give us a call anytime...913.787.1870 or PickettPropertyGroup.com.

Things to Do in KC This Weekend (Part 1): Trunk or Treat

2010-10-28T12:30:00.002-05:00

Nothing screams Halloween more than trick-or-treating. The time honored tradition of dressing up in your favorite costume and trolling door-to-door for one sugary snack after another can be experienced in neighborhoods across the country this Sunday. But if you happen to live in a neighborhood that lacks the "house light on" signal or if you'd like a little practice before the big day, there are plenty of "Trunk or Treat" activities throughout the Metro KC area.

What is "Trunk or Treat" you ask? Simply put, it's trick or treating from car to car in a parking lot. However, many organizations will have activities for the kids, music, snacks, and many car owners even decorate their cars to participate in the spirit of Halloween.

If you'd like to experience "Trunk of Treat" with your family, here's where the festivities are located this weekend:
Trunk for Treat: North Cross United Methodist October 29, 4:00 PM, North Cross United Methodist Church. Come for an afternoon of face painting, trick or treating and visiting the pumpkin patch. Dress in your costume and bring your goodie bag! Free. 816.452.2939 http://www.northcrossumc.org/

Trunk or Treat: Platte City Community Center October 29, 5:30 PM, Platte County Community Center North. Join the YMCA for treats, crafts and fun for the whole family. Crafts, Designated Parking, Entertainment Children's, Entertainment Free, Food, Handicapped Access. 816.858.0114 www.plattecitymo.com

Trunk or Treat: Riverside Community Center October 30, 6:00 PM, Riverside Community Center. A safe alternative to trick or treating. www.riversidemo.com/blog/?cat=25

Trunk ‘N Treat : Bonner Springs YMCA October 30, 5:00 PM, Bonner Springs YMCA. From fun games to a trick or treat extravaganza, your family is sure to have a SPOOKTACULAR time at our first Trunk `N Treat event. If you are interested in setting up your trunk at the event, call 913.422.9348

Trunk or Treat: Platte County Community Center South October 29, 6:00 PM, Platte County Community Center South. Join the YMCA for treats, crafts and fun for the whole family. Crafts, Designated Parking, Entertainment Children's, Entertainment Free, Food, Handicapped Access. Admission is FREE. 816.858.0114 www.plattecitymo.com

Trunk or Treat: Great American Gymnastics Express October 31, 3:00 PM, GAGE. Kid friendly Haunted Houses - one for 1 year- Preschool age and one for 15 and younger. Interactive and full of mazes, obstacle, trampolines and fun! It is FREE for all and ends with a huge trunk or treat in the parking lot. 816.229.7775 FREE. 816.229.7775 www.gagecenter.com

Valley View UMC Trunk or Treat and Coat Exchange October 31, 4:00 PM, Valley View UMC. Join us for good frights and lots of treats in our main parking lot! (We will trunk or treat inside if it is raining) Also, a Coat Exchange at the same time Donate, exchange and/or select coats for your family. (Unselected coats will be taken by the Valley View Youth Group to Bishop’s Round Up in November) We are collecting coats (slightly used or new) for children, youth and adults, October 19 through October 30 in the red tubs placed just inside our building entrances. FREE. 913.642.4400 www.valleyviewumc.org%2

Just Reduced!! Great Condo Near Downtown KC, Crown Center, & Hallmark only $208,000!!

2010-10-26T09:42:00.000-05:00

Battery Loft Condo only $208,000!!!

Live in a piece of history, the Triangle Battery Building...once the heart of Kansas City's automotive district. Built in 1920, this terra-cotta/tapestry brick building now features 12 meticulously remodeled two bedroom lofts...and this Battery Loft can be yours!!

True urban living with all the amenities!! This beautiful 2 bedroom Condo also includes 2 deeded secure parking spaces and a tax abatement for 20 more years. Enjoy the rooftop deck with an incredible view of the Kansas City skyline...perfect for entertaining friends and family. Located right behind the popular Filling Station Coffee Shop.

Features List
• 2 Bedroom

• 2 Full Baths

• 2secure parkng spots
• Wood Floors

• Corian Counters

• Stainless Appliances
• Laundry in Unit

• All Electric

• Large walkin closets

• Bright & open

• Lofted ceilings

• Tall thermal windows

• Designer colors

• Historic building

• Park & Blvd setting

If you are looking to live close to Downtown Kansas City, Crown Center, Hallmark, and the Hospital Hill area, let Pickett Property Group show you the best location on "Condo Corner". Give us a call to schedule your appointment!

Now's the time to start weather-proofing your home

2010-10-25T20:25:00.000-05:00

It's that time of year...time to do a little upkeep on your home to make it more efficient through those cold winter months. A well-sealed, well-insulated home is an energy-efficient home. Using the right energy saving products to insulate your attic and seal gaps and cracks in your home will help reduce your home heating and cooling costs by up to $220 a year. Here are some energy saving ideas to help you save money year-round.

Insulate your attic. Up to 65% of homes in the United States are under-insulated. Adding insulation or making sure your coverage is adequate will cut drafts and energy loss...as well as your monthly heating and cooling bills.
Stock up on sealants and caulk. Even with home insulation, between 30% and 50% of the energy used in most homes is eaten up by energy lost through cracks, holes and gaps. The airflow seeping through the attic and basement, windows, doorframes, plumbing lines, vents and electrical outlets is equivalent to a 4-foot hole in your exterior wall. Use sealant and caulk to stop those leaks—consider them your insulation's working partners.
Weatherize your windows. If you can afford to replace older ones with new ENERGY STAR-qualified models, it's a worthwhile investment. If not, weatherizing your existing single- or double-hung windows with weather-stripping, sealant and caulk is the next best thing. Cutting airflow improves your home energy efficiency.
Update your entry door. Stylish and maintenance-free ENERGY STAR-qualified fiberglass exterior doors boast 5 times the insulating value of older wooden doors. Installing a new door adds up to major energy savings year-round. For even more insulation and security, pair a storm door with your existing wooden or new fiberglass exterior entry door. It can reduce energy loss by as much as 50%.

Market Stats for Grey Oaks in Shawnee, KS

2010-10-25T13:17:00.000-05:00

Things are slowing a bit at Grey Oaks in Shawnee, KS...but that's not too unusual considering the time of year. If you're looking to be a part of this great neighborhood though, there's still a few to choose from. Grey Oaks has 5 active homes listed for sale ranging in price from $319,995 to $370,000, four to five bedroom floorplans for the picking. In the past 90 days, however, 2 homes are currently under contract and only 1 sold at $289,500. In this area especially, if the home is priced effectively, it will sell...and sell rapidly!!

If you haven't been to Grey Oaks in awhile, you should really check it out. The next phase has opened and new construction homes are available starting at the low $300,000s. Wooded views are among the many amenities available in this new phase. Feel free to contact me to see the models and floorplans that are available.

***Don't let the construction on K-7 scare you! Silverheel is now open and offers great access to the community! ***

To see any of the available homes in this neighborhood or any of the nearby communities in Shawnee, such as Crimson Ridge, Brittany Heights, Brittany Valley, Lakepointe, Woodland Park, Woodsonia, Monticello Farms, Greens of Chapel Creek, Greenview Ridge, or Estates of Green View Ridge, email, text, or give us a call. As a resident of Grey Oaks, Pickett Property Group is your Western Shawnee expert.

Did You Know...

2010-10-14T22:10:00.002-05:00

...that the real estate board game Monopoly was invented in 1934 by Charles B. Darrow? His first version of the game was rejected by Parker Brothers due to design flaws. After Darrow sold 5,000 handmade sets of the game to a Philadelphia department store, Parker Brothers agreed to sell the game. Since then, over 200 million Monopoly games have been sold worldwide.

Who knew? :)

Recycle Your Blues: Gap + You = Home Insulation

2010-10-12T10:55:00.000-05:00

Need a reason to get rid of those old jeans you no longer wear? Instead of throwing them away, turn them into sustainable and eco-friendly housing insulation and save a little dough for yourself in the process!

From now until October 20th, take advantage of the Gap's Recycle Your Blues campaign. Simply bring in your old, ripped, tight, out of style jeans (any brand) and receive 30% off a new pair of Gap jeans. And to sweeten the deal even more, "like" the Gap on Facebook and save an additional 10%! The recycled denim will be transformed into UltraTouch Natural Cotton Fiber Insulation and donated to communities in need. It takes approximately 500 pairs of jeans to insulate one home, so what are you waiting for?

Make a Great First Impression: Top 10 Tips to Staging Your Home to Sell

2010-10-11T14:20:00.000-05:00

Studies have shown that it takes about a twentieth of a second for Web surfers to make a decision about a site (so I may have lost some of you already) and only about seven seconds to make a good first impression in person. Believe it or not, this includes homes too!

Within seconds after entering a home, potential homebuyers are already deciding whether or not they want to buy your home. Your goal is to create an inviting, beautiful, spacious atmosphere that will create that emotional "I want to make an offer" trigger. How do you do that? Simple...through staging.

Professional home stagers can cost up to several hundred dollars and in some cases, the cost is worth it. However, if you have the ability to look at your home objectively and without emotion and want to save some money, then these simple steps can help you achieve the same goal:

Remove all personal, political, and religious items...including photos. Yes, your wedding photo from eight years ago must come down.
Curb appeal! Does your landscaping need a manicure? Trim bushes, edge, and remove clutter.
Rearrange your furniture. Take out unnecessary pieces to open up rooms. Move pieces around to highlight key home features.
Accessorize! Arrange place settings at dining tables and countertop bars. I'm talking placemats, dishes, glassware.
Edit your closets down to 50% and leave the floors empty. If you haven't worn that sweater and those shoes within the past year, you're probably not going to need them while you're selling your house.
Clear your kitchen countertops. You can leave out larger accessory pieces, but put away the toaster and coffee pot when not in use.
Clean all the windows, glass surfaces, and hardware fixtures. Look for nose prints left behind from Fido and fingerprints from little Johnny.
Edit your bookshelves 50% as well.
Keep main walkways clear throughout the home.
Nothing says "home" better than the smell of fresh cookies, pumpkin pie, or banana bread wafting throughout the house. Candles, potpourri, or Scentsy items can help achieve this...unless you happen to be a really good cook.

The most important thing to keep in mind is to desensitize and depersonalize. Think of it this way, once you list your house, it's no longer your home. It's someone else's...and the sooner we can achieve that, the better!

When you're ready to list your home or if you're needing some help getting it ready, feel free to give us a call. We've helped hundreds of families prep their homes for the market and we'd love to help you! Email, text, or give us a call anytime...913.787.1870 or PickettPropertyGroup.com.

The Country Club Plaza lifestyle for only $145,000!

2010-10-07T15:18:00.000-05:00

Enjoy the holidays Plaza-style from the comforts of this immaculate West Plaza bungalow! Move-in ready, yet loaded with charm.

A Must-See at $145,000!!!

This 2-bedroom home features wood floors, crown molding, a claw foot tub, high ceilings, designer colors, custom blinds and more! Full basement and large pantry add tons of storage options and the back sun room makes a perfect office or breakfast nook.

This house also boasts a private backyard, alarm system, automatic garage door, dishwasher, central A/C, and new 200 amp electric panel. Conveniently located within walking distance of The Country Club Plaza and Westwood Park.

Be sure to add this one to your list of must-sees! For more information on this house or others in the Holly Garden, West Plaza, Westwood area, contact us at PickettPropertyGroup.com today!

Curb Appeal: Plant a Tree

2010-10-06T15:09:00.000-05:00

When considering curb appeal, most people instantly think of removing shrubs and trees. However, when planted correctly and strategically, trees and shrubs can not only make your home more attractive, they may even save you money in the long run.

And what better time to plant those trees and shrubs than now! Fall is the best time to plant because the moisture levels and soil temperatures provide the perfect conditions for roots to grow deeply and establish a good foundation before the winter freeze.

Here’s How:
1. Select a tree that fits your yard as well as your needs. Consider its mature size, the shade it might cast on existing flowerbeds as well as your home. At it's full size, the right tree can block the sun's rays in the summer (lower cooling costs) and allow the sun through in the winter (lower heating costs). Also, keep in mind any nearby power lines or paved areas its branches and roots may disturb. Before digging, be sure to contact your local utility company to mark gas lines, water pipes, or underground cables.

2. Dig a hole as deep as the tree’s root ball and twice as wide. As you are digging, place the soil onto a tarp to protect your lawn throughout the planting process.

3. Mix organic filler into heavy clay or sandy soil, replacing up to one-half the volume of the excavated soil. Slice roots by scoring the sides of the root ball with a shovel, which will encourage new roots to grow.

4. Place your tree in the hole, replace some of the soil, and straighten the tree. Ensure that the trunk flare (where the first roots spread out from the base of the tree) is level with the soil line. Fill the hole, keeping the flare exposed. Add a ring of mounded soil 12 to 18 inches out from the trunk, creating a moat so water can soak into the roots.

5. Mulch with shredded bark, pine straw, or some other organic matter, beginning 3 to 5 inches away from the trunk. Be sure to maintain the mounded ring shape. Water weekly during the first growing season (and during excessive dry heat in the summer)...a slow trickle for about an hour should do!

New Feature! Did You Know...

2010-10-05T19:05:00.000-05:00

Thanks to the millions of apps and widgets out there, I have managed to build my iGoogle page to quite the source of useful, and useless, information. Fortunately, some of the little tidbits that my eyes span daily actually make me stop and ponder. So...in the spirit of good fun and entertainment...I thought I would start a new blog segment (never fear; it won't be a daily thing) and enlighten you to some of the wisdom the Real Estate market has to share.

Here we go...

Did you know...
...Homebuilders, mortgage bankers, real estate agents, and homebuyers do not recall the early 1980s fondly. To reduce chronic inflation, the Federal Reserve dramatically raised interest rates causing severe economic recession in the USA. The national unemployment rate peaked at 10.8%, the prime-lending rate hit a staggering 18.45%, and the mortgage interest rates averaged 16%.

Wow.

USD 232 Sees an Increase in Student Enrollment

2010-10-05T12:55:00.000-05:00

According to official numbers released by USD 232, enrollment for the 2010-2011 school year increased by 174 students in grades K-12...a jump of 165 students at the secondary level and 9 at the elementary level. Overall headcount jumped to a total of 6700 students. Most believe the increase is due to continued growth in the district. New programs exist at the high school levels now including more advanced placement courses, an expanded broadcast journalism program, and honors archealogy. And with the slow increase in new home construction as well as the addition of new businesses, the district is sure to see more growth in the future.

School Total

Belmont Elementary (new): 445

Clear Creek Elem.: 585

Horizon Elem.: 453

Mize Elem.: 386

Prairie Ridge Elem.: 548

Riverview Elem.: 550

Starside Elem.: 451

Lexington Trails Middle: 325

Mill Creek Middle: 570

Monticello Trails Middle: 647

De Soto High School: 644

Mill Valley High School: 1,096

Total: 6,700

Kindergarten through 12th Grade Enrollment

(Up by 260 students over two years)

2010-11: 6,567 +174

2009-10: 6,393 + 86

Early Childhood through 12th Grade Enrollment

(Up by 274 students over two years)

2010-11: 6,700 +167

2009-10: 6,533 +107

Market Stats for Lakepointe in Shawnee, KS

2010-09-28T09:39:00.000-05:00

Lakepointe has quite the pickings for houses right now if you're looking to live in Western Shawnee. Lakepointe currently has 18 active homes listed for sale ranging in price from $127,990 to $365,000, three to five bedrooms/2+ baths available. In the past 90 days, 6 homes have sold...ranging from $169,000 to $318,000 with an average of only 66 days on market, which is great for this price range and time of year. This is a great location and when the price is right, these homes will move.

Lakepointe is located in Western Shawnee, just off Johnson Drive and Monticello Road. This community is part of the Award Winning De Soto School District, has great highway access, and is close to restaurants and shopping.
To see any of the available homes in this neighborhood or any of the nearby communities in Shawnee, such as Crimson Ridge, Monticello Farms, Brittany Valley, Woodland Park, Brittany Heights, Grey Oaks, Woodsonia, Greens of Chapel Creek, Greenview Ridge, or Estates of Green View Ridge, email, text, or give us a call. As a resident of nearby Grey Oaks, Pickett Property Group is your Western Shawnee expert.

Things to Do in KC This Weekend: Plaza Art Fair & American Royal Parade

2010-09-24T14:08:00.000-05:00

Nothing kicks off the Fall season in Kansas City better than cooler temps and these fun activities. Take a look at what's happening in our area this weekend:

Plaza Art Fair

Country Club Plaza, Kansas City, MO

September 24 – 26

Cost: Free Admission

Details: Come see over 200 artists sharing their works, experience live music on 3 stages, a Kids’ Art Workshop and lots of great family fun! Get more information here!

American Royal Parade

Downtown Kansas City

Saturday, September 25th

10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Cost: Free

Details: Time for another American Royal in Kansas City!! As usual, the event kicks off with the parade! Get details, including parade route info here.

Today's First-Time Home Buyers

2010-09-23T14:30:00.000-05:00

In today's market, more than 50% of buyers are first-time home buyers. That's an amazing statistic considering where we've been and where we're headed (meaning the economy). But, given the recent tax credit program and the all time lows in interest rates, who can blame them?

An independent study of over 2000 first-time homebuyers recently shed some light on this group of buyers. Take a look:

The median age is 28 years old...down from 32 just four years ago.
The median home size is about 1600 square feet
Location or neighborhood was the #1 "must have" for 36% of first-time home buyers
66% of sellers paid at least some of the buyer's closing costs
76% used their own savings for the down payment
25% had help from their family for the down payment

Having worked with several first-time home buyers, I can say that these statistics are pretty close to what I have seen in the area. If you are looking to buy your first home...or second...give Pickett Property Group a call. We'd love to help!

Kansas City, MO Ranks 7th Most Affordable Housing Market in US

2010-09-22T16:15:00.000-05:00

Well, our friends at Coldwell Banker have released their Home Listing Report and ranked Kansas City, MO as the seventh most affordable housing market in the US. Their report is based on average listing prices of four bedroom, two bathroom homes across the United States.

Number one in the nation? Detroit, MI, with an average price of $68,007.

Rounding out the top 10? Our very own Topeka, KS, coming in with an average of $116,343.

On the flip side, Overland Park ranked as the least affordable city in Kansas, with an average list price of just less than $231,000.

And the least affordable housing market in the nation? You guessed it! Newport Beach, CA...with an average list price of $1.8 million.

Free eBook: 7 Reasons Why Now is a Great Time to Buy a Home

2010-09-20T15:44:00.000-05:00

With interest rates at all time lows and sellers looking to sell, this really is a great time to buy a home. Whether you are a first-time home buyer, an investor, or even if you're considering a second home, don't let the less-than-glamorous media messages delay you from achieving your dream. Download this FREE eBook: 7 Reasons Why Now is a Great Time to Buy a Home. If you're like me, you'll love it: quick, easy to read and includes simple charts and graphs to really make you think. Once you're done, email, text us, or give us a call. We're here to help you with that next step!

Just Reduced!! Immaculate West Plaza Bungalow only $145,000!!

2010-09-20T13:03:00.000-05:00

A Must-See at $145,000!!!

This immaculate West Plaza bungalow is move-in ready, yet loaded with vintage charm.

Be sure to add this one to your list of must-sees! For more information on this house or others in the Holly Garden, West Plaza, Westwood area, contact us at PickettPropertyGroup.com today!

Looking for a home? FHA Changes Coming in October

2010-09-10T13:29:00.000-05:00

If you are currently looking for a home and plan on using an FHA loan, get a case number now as some new changes take effect on October 4, 2010. See the hypothetical example below:

The bright side? If you are looking at an FHA loan with a value of $250,000, the Upfront Mortgage Insurance Premium is decreasing from 2.25% to 1%. This will bring about a $3000+/- savings in closing costs!

The not-so-bright side? If you borrow more than 95% of the value of the home, your monthly payment is going to go up. For example, TODAY, a loan for $250,000 at 4.5% will give you a monthly payment of $1381.58 (principal+interest+PMI). After October 4th, your monthly payment will be $1454.50. The payment increase isn't huge, but it will affect those buyers trying to qualify for a larger loan amount. On the flip side, if you borrow less than 95% of the value of the home, the payment will increase from $1381.58 to $1433.67 on the 4th.

In addition, borrowers with a credit score at or above 580 will be eligible for maximum financing. Those between 500 and 579 will be limited to 90% LTV. And those below 500 will not be eligible for FHA-insured mortgage financing.

This is just a brief summary of the new changes that will take effect. For more info, speak to your mortgage lender and/or visit these HUD guidelines.

Market Stats for Grey Oaks in Shawnee, KS

2010-09-09T13:50:00.000-05:00

Grey Oaks in Shawnee, KS has had a slow August, considering the number of listings out there. If you're looking to be a part of this great neighborhood though, there's still quite a few to choose from. Grey Oaks still has 12 active homes listed for sale ranging in price from $270,000 to $399,950, four to five bedroom floorplans for the picking. For the month of August, only 2 homes have sold ($265,000 and $439,950) with an average days on market of 245 days.

Grey Oaks is located in Western Shawnee, just off K-7 Highway and Johnson Drive. It features a neighborhood park, community pool, walking trails, part of the Award Winning De Soto School District, great highway access, and close to restaurants and shopping.

***Don't let the construction on K-7 scare you! Silverheel is now open and offers great access to the community! ***

To see any of the available homes in this neighborhood or any of the nearby communities in Shawnee, such as Crimson Ridge, Brittany Heights, Brittany Valley, Lakepointe, Woodland Park, Woodsonia, Monticello Farms, Greens of Chapel Creek, Greenview Ridge, or Estates of Green View Ridge, email, text, or give us a call. As a resident of Grey Oaks, Pickett Property Group is your Western Shawnee expert.

Woodsonia Market Stats in Shawnee, KS for August 2010

2010-09-08T15:38:00.000-05:00

Woodsonia in Shawnee, KS had a quiet August, which is not surprising for a month surrounding back-to-school. If you're looking to be a part of this great neighborhood though, there's still quite a few to choose from. Woodsonia currently has 7 active homes listed for sale ranging in price from $174,900 to $245,000, three to four bedrooms with 2-3 baths available. In the past 30 days, 1 home sold after only 22 days on the market! Talk about the right condition/right price!

Pricing Your Home to Sell in Today's Market

2010-09-07T11:22:00.000-05:00

When it comes time to list your home, pricing is critical. Especially in today's market, pricing can either bring you many showings but no offers, send you multiple offers from multiple buyers (which is ideal!), or it can put your home out of consideration all together (bad!!).

In simple terms, houses that are priced well and in good condition sell. Houses that aren't sit...and sit...and sit.

Before I take a listing, I make sure my clients understand this. Every once in awhile though, I will have a client that wants to price their home at a number higher than I would recommend and I have to stop and have a very honest conversation with them. Click on the link below to watch a video that explains exactly how a successful pricing strategy will make your house stand out from the crowd:

Why Some Houses Sit While Other Houses Sell

Still have questions? Feel free to email, text, or give us a call...Pickett Property Group.

Redbox Hits One Billion Rentals!

2010-09-06T08:07:00.000-05:00

Every once in awhile, I like to post a deal that I think will benefit my clients, readers, and anyone else that might be interested. And today...who doesn't like movies?!!?!

Redbox...you know, the big red boxes in most McDonald's, grocery stores, and Walmarts that spit out movie rentals for around a buck...has hit a major milestone...one BILLION rentals! To celebrate, they have kicked off their Thanks a Billion Promotion! Everyone will get a free rental...and if you're lucky, other prizes too.

To get your free rental, you must first rent one movie as usual. When the disc comes out, take a look at the DVD itself; there will be a code printed on it. Then, simply enter the code on this screen and you'll get the code so you can rent the next one free!

Don't forget...Redbox also sends out a promo code good for one free rental the first Monday of every month to customers that have signed up to receive SMS text messages. To set up your own account to start taking advantage of this offer, click here.

K-7 and Johnson Drive Interchange Project Update for September

2010-09-03T14:11:00.000-05:00

Heads up, Western Shawnee residents! Starting Monday, September 13th, K-7 will be down to one lane, going north and southbound. This will start just north of Johnson Drive and go to just south of 47th street. Both northbound and southbound K-7 will be placed directly next to each other on the existing southbound K-7 lanes. All of this will allow construction on the new K-7 nterchange alignment to tie it into the existing K-7 alignment.

As expected, there will be delays around this area, so prepare yourselves accordingly. For more information, check out the KS DOT site.

Learn Backyard Composting at the Johnson County Library in Lenexa

2010-09-02T13:38:00.000-05:00

This year has been a year of experimentation for us. My wife started her first square foot garden this Spring and at the same time, we set up our own compost bin. Keep in mind, though, that neither one of us have "green thumbs"...let alone any knowledge about gardening or composting beyond what we have Googled.

Fresh out of the gates though, it's actually been pretty productive for us. We've managed to dine on fresh green beans, strawberries, tomatoes, and peppers. And as long as my wife doesn't see the inch worms and grasshoppers that like to hide here and there, she'll eat the cauliflower and broccoli too. Not only are we teaching our sons and ourselves about the importance of growing and eating fresh veggies, we're also taking it a step further...literally...to the back corner of the yard...the compost bin.

Though it's not the fancy rolling kind, it's also not the chicken wire kind...just your basic black bin. We toss in our garden cast offs...like the squash plants that rotted out for some reason...with a little bit of kitchen scraps, combined with lawn clippings and weeds, saw dust, and coffee grounds. Mix it up a few times and we now have a small, but decent amount of compost available. And now that the weather has cooled a couple degrees, we'll head back outside and spread some of our homemade compost in our flowerbeds and pots to give our landscaping a bit of nutrition.

Composting isn't hard...and once you get past the initial "fear", it's easy to maintain. Lowe's has some great information about composting. But if you happen to live in the Kansas City area, check out the FREE class on backyard composting to be held Sept. 16th at the Johnson County Library on 87th and Lackman in Lenexa. Just in time too...the county commission is considering new regulations that would prohibit grass clippings and other yard waste from being deposited into the county landfill.

Debunking the 4% Home Sales Tax Myth

2010-09-01T14:46:00.000-05:00

Some emails and reports are circulating the various media outlets announcing a 4% sales tax or transfer tax on real estate stemming from the new federal health care legislation. I'm here to tell you that this information is FALSE.

Instead, what was included was a 3.8% Medicare tax for some high income households that have "net investment income". Set to take effect January 1, 2013, this new tax applies to households with an Adjusted Gross Income of more than $200,000 for individuals and more than $250,000 for couples. When these limits are met, the new tax would only apply to any home sale gain realized in excess of the $250K/$500K existing primary home exclusion that pushes the filer's AGI over the $200K/$250K adjusted gross income limit.

Clear as mud, right?! For more information, check out the NARs' Myth Busters Flyer.

Market Stats for Western Shawnee 66226

2010-08-31T11:11:00.000-05:00

Western Shawnee, KS has a lot to offer as far as current homes for sale on the market. Currently, there are 81 active homes for sale, ranging from $145,000-$700,000, three to five bedrooms available depending on the floorplan. For the month of July alone, 20 homes sold, ranging in price from $165,000-$625,000. The good news is that the average days on market was only 94, which is great for the price and the time of year.

To see any of the available homes in the Western Shawnee communities, such as Brittany Heights, Crimson Ridge, Crystal Park, Deer Ridge Estates, Deerfield Trace, Grey Oaks, Hillcrest Farms, Oakmont, Woodland Park, Woodsonia, and more, email, text, or give us a call! As a resident of Grey Oaks, Pickett Property Group is your Western Shawnee expert.

Love to bike? Check out the Tour de Shawnee!

2010-08-28T09:16:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow's forecast? Sunny and mild in the morning...perfect for a bike ride! And what's better than a little exercise and fresh air for yourself? Benefitting the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation at the same time, of course!

Tomorrow marks the 21st Annual Tour de Shawnee...a bike ride sponsored by the Shawnee Parks and Rec Department, Shawnee Hy-Vee, and the Santa Fe Cosmopolitan Club. Starting and ending at Power Play Family Entertainment Center, you can choose from a 12 mile or 24 mile bike route. Check in begins at 7am and the ride starts at 8am. The entry fee of $25 will get you a t-shirt, breakfast, lunch, rest stop snacks and drinks, medical assistance, SAG vehicle support, and mobile bike repair.

It's not too late to register, so click here for more information!

Things to Do in KC this Weekend: Habitat for Humanity ReStore Drop-Off

2010-08-27T14:13:00.000-05:00

If you are finishing up a remodel in your house or getting ready to list your rehab with me and happen to have extra building materials laying around, now you can put them to good use!

Heartland Habitat for Humanity's Johnson County ReStore Drop-Off is now available! The 4th Saturday of every month (which if you don't have a calendar in front of you would be tomorrow), you can donate new and used building materials, hardware, fixtures, appliances, furniture and more at the Sam's Club on 135th Street in Overland Park, KS.

All donated items are taken to and sold at the HHfH ReStore and all profits go to further the Heartland Habitat's building projects in Wyandotte, Johnson, Leavenworth counties in Kansas and Clay and Platte counties in Missouri. There is absolutely no cost to you for donating your items and they may even be tax-deductible.

For more information, check out Heartland Habitat ReStore.

Thinking About New Home Construction? Let Pickett Property Group Help!

2010-08-26T15:56:00.000-05:00

Having sold new construction homes as well as existing homes for years now, I was surprised to learn that a couple of my clients, had they not talked to me, would have bought a new construction home without a Real Estate Agent. Thinking that working without an agent would have saved them money, it actually could have cost them more. Before you make such a large purchase, consider the benefit of having an experienced agent working on your behalf at no cost to you. Here's a quick run-down of how we at Pickett Property Group can help:

From Western Shawnee to Olathe, Overland Park and more, the Kansas City area offers a great selection of home builders...Rodrock, Pulte, James III, True Builders, Duckworth, and J.S. Robinson to name a few. It's easy to wander into a new home model center to look...but before you know it, you've fallen in love with a floorplan. We offer information on the builder, neighborhood values, factors impacting prices, and more. We can also help negotiate the best deal for your money, review contract terms and facilitate the smoothest possible closing.

We Work for You!
There are several reputable builders in the Kansas City area, however the builder’s primary mission is to sell homes. So they hire sales agents to respresent them, the builder. If you work directly with the builder’s salesperson, then who is looking out for your interests throughout the selection, negotiation, financing, inspection and closing processes? We will help you throughout the transaction at NO COST to you.

No Cost to you!

That's right! Kansas City area builders pay all Real Estate commissions. You will not pay more if you work with an agent, and with the right agent (eh-hum!...ME!) you may actually pay less because of negotiation skills and relationships.

The Right Home

A Real Estate Agent is also a FREE resource who can suggest communities that you may not have considered before and can help make sure you are able to recoup your costs from floorplans and upgrades when it comes time to re-sell.
The Best Price

Going directly to a builder does not mean you will get the best home, the best deal, or the best advice. We will negotiate additional incentives that otherwise may not have been offered or show you a home in a better neighborhood for less money. Either way, we'll make sure you are getting the best deal, help you through the paperwork (contracts, lender arrangements, upgrades, etc), and make sure you get through closing with no surprises.
Avoid Pressure to use a Builder’s Lender

Many builders will offer incentives and closing costs assistance if you agree to use their lender, title company and/or other related service providers, especially now with the economy and the industry the way it is. This may or may not be a good deal for you. For example, the value of a 3% builder contribution toward closing costs can be offset by hidden fees or interest higher rates. We will offer several different service providers to help find the best fit for you.

Closing Process

We will also help facilitate the inspection, financing, title, home insurance, and closing process to ensure a smooth transaction.
So the next time you venture into a builder’s model center, tell the builder’s sales agent that you are working with Pickett Property Group at Keller Williams. For more info on purchasing a your next home in the Kansas City metro area, call, text, or email Pickett Property Group today!

What You Own Home Inventory-Free Software to Track Your Belongings

2010-08-24T10:13:00.000-05:00

There really is some truth behind the saying, "You don't know what you got 'til it's gone." Lucky for you, it does't have to be that way. As a homeowner, it's important to know the value of your belongings...the material items that make a house a home...in case you ever lose those items de to fire, theft, natural disaster...you get the idea. The solution? Check out the What You Own Home Inventory free software system.

This FREE software program will help you keep track of everything...from furniture and jewelry to artwork and dishware...even your child's favorite toy. Once you have your home set up, you can easily begin your home inventory process room by room...organize your items by room and categories, upload pictures, and you can even upload your receipts. When you're finished, you'll be able to print customized reports, including a household summary, items by category, and more.

If you're like me and like to clean out those closets and give to local community charities, there's a "room" for that too. Referred to as the Donation Room, you can move items here that you plan to donate, making it super easy to keep track of charitable donations, especially for tax purposes.

Best of all, this changes the overwhelming task of compiling a home inventory from dreadful to kinda fun.

And did I mention it's FREE?