Kansas City North Real Estate

What Do We Do While Waiting For Christmas?

2009-11-30T09:18:00.000-08:00

Gingerbread House Decorating and a trip to Old McDonald's Farm afterwards......

Gobble Gobble Turkey Day Is Just Around The Corner

2009-11-23T12:31:00.000-08:00

As we approach Thanksgiving I'd like to take the opportunity to thank all the wonderful people that I've come in contact with this year.

I've made a lot of long lasting relationships and friends forever.... and I just want to thank each and every one of you.

Happy Thanksgiving.

Dinner on The Plaza

2009-11-14T06:25:00.000-08:00

We had a lovely dinner last night on The Plaza. A great italian restaurant Accurso's . I had the chicken spadini.... it was to die for. We were greeted by the owner of the restaurant, which is a really rare touch these days. Made you feel real welcome. Great atmosphere.. the service was EXCELLENT! Plenty of parking behind it. It was totally enjoyable! You should try it sometime!

Fall Is Definitely Here

2009-11-05T06:19:00.000-08:00

Out with the warm balmy weather and suddenly... enters Fall. I personally prefer a long spring and a long fall, but this one has turned into winter already.

I do have to say that the trees were absolutely gorgeous this year. I can't remember the last time they were so bright and the colors so vivid.

Now it's on to the holidays... and if your budget is tight due to the economy but you still want holiday lights... I thought this was cute.

Memorial Day in Kansas City

2009-06-08T07:39:00.001-07:00

I have been meaning to publish these shots I took of Celebration at the Station in honor of

Memorial Day.

It was a great event, lots of people! The Kansas City Symphony did a fabulous job performing wonderful classical pieces.

Gladstone Bluesfest June 5-6, 2009

2009-06-02T10:34:00.000-07:00

For the 13th year Gladstone's Summer Bluesfest will be held this weekend at Oak Grove Park.

This festival has attracted up to 15,000 and this year should be no different.

For additional information visit the Gladstone Chamber of Commerce website.

This is a free festival and parking is only $5.00.

Kansas City Easter Parade at Zona Rosa

2009-04-11T16:46:00.000-07:00

As we gather tomorrow with our family and friends..... I want to wish everyone a very Happy Easter!
In 2006 Zona Rosa in the Northland introduced an all time Kansas City favorite, the Easter Parade! It caused such enthusiam that it's become an annual tradition at the shopping area.
The community is invited to participated in this tradition which features the Easter Bunny, a petting zoo, free giveaways and a best dressed contest.

Our furry friend Buddy won't be in the best dressed contest but he certainly is festive!
Happy Easter

$8000.00 Free Money For 1st Time Buyers

2009-04-04T15:31:00.000-07:00

I have heard that here in Kansas City there have been a couple of instances where accountants have been telling their first time home buyers that they cannot apply for the $8000.00 tax credit until 2009.
THAT is NOT TRUE!

I have a copy of the blank 1040. Go to page 2, under line #69 where it says attach form 5405. I also have also a copy of form 5405 that you will need. You can look at "C" at the top. You can claim it now if purchased in 2009. If they purchase in July, 2009, they can file an amended return and get their $8000 immediately.
However, the drawback is that the EZ form which most of them would file does not accommodate this so they will have to file the regular 1040.
I would be willing to share these forms with whomever wants them.......... just email me at franwhite@kc.rr.com........... in the subject line put TAX FORMS and I'll send them to you as PDF file you can print out.
And if you know someone who is wanting to buy, NOW is the time to do it.....if they are looking in the Kansas City North area, have them give me a call 816-682-3897
Until next time.......

Kansas City Home Show

2009-04-04T15:28:00.001-07:00

The Kansas City Home show was this past weekend and we went on the first evening it opened.
There were a lot of vendors there with different things: windows, siding, housewares, guttering, roofing, more windows and more siding, fountains and all sorts of different things.
We chatted with the gentleman that was there from an invisible fence company because we are considering doing that for our little furry friend we adopted the end of January.
It was an interesting evening... unfortunately due to the weather here in Kansas City, they were reporting on the television that it drastically effected the turnout of the home show.

Rates Could Be In The Upper 4% By Tomorrow

2009-03-18T15:48:00.000-07:00

Here's the actual press release from the Federal Reserve:

Press Release

Release Date: March 18, 2009
For immediate release
Information received since the Federal Open Market Committee met in January indicates that the economy continues to contract. Job losses, declining equity and housing wealth, and tight credit conditions have weighed on consumer sentiment and spending. Weaker sales prospects and difficulties in obtaining credit have led businesses to cut back on inventories and fixed investment. U.S. exports have slumped as a number of major trading partners have also fallen into recession. Although the near-term economic outlook is weak, the Committee anticipates that policy actions to stabilize financial markets and institutions, together with fiscal and monetary stimulus, will contribute to a gradual resumption of sustainable economic growth.
In light of increasing economic slack here and abroad, the Committee expects that inflation will remain subdued. Moreover, the Committee sees some risk that inflation could persist for a time below rates that best foster economic growth and price stability in the longer term.
In these circumstances, the Federal Reserve will employ all available tools to promote economic recovery and to preserve price stability. The Committee will maintain the target range for the federal funds rate at 0 to 1/4 percent and anticipates that economic conditions are likely to warrant exceptionally low levels of the federal funds rate for an extended period. To provide greater support to mortgage lending and housing markets, the Committee decided today to increase the size of the Federal Reserve’s balance sheet further by purchasing up to an additional $750 billion of agency mortgage-backed securities, bringing its total purchases of these securities to up to $1.25 trillion this year, and to increase its purchases of agency debt this year by up to $100 billion to a total of up to $200 billion. Moreover, to help improve conditions in private credit markets, the Committee decided to purchase up to $300 billion of longer-term Treasury securities over the next six months. The Federal Reserve has launched the Term Asset-Backed Securities Loan Facility to facilitate the extension of credit to households and small businesses and anticipates that the range of eligible collateral for this facility is likely to be expanded to include other financial assets. The Committee will continue to carefully monitor the size and composition of the Federal Reserve's balance sheet in light of evolving financial and economic developments
Voting for the FOMC monetary policy action were: Ben S. Bernanke, Chairman; William C. Dudley, Vice Chairman; Elizabeth A. Duke; Charles L. Evans; Donald L. Kohn; Jeffrey M. Lacker; Dennis P. Lockhart; Daniel K. Tarullo; Kevin M. Warsh; and Janet L. Yellen.

Kansas City's St. Patrick's Day Parade

2009-03-16T21:25:00.001-07:00

Aye me little wee lads and lassys.... it's St. Patrick's Day again in Kansas City, Missouri.
Kansas City has a very active Irish following, along with an Irish Fest that happens over Labor Day, we have a great St. Patrick's Day parade downtown!
This year the parade will run Broadway - 33rd Street (Linwood) to 43rd Street from 11 AM to 1 PM.
This is the 36th edition of this Kansas City tradition and the weather appears to be very cooperative!
Follow this link http://www.kcirishparade.com/ for more information....

First Time Buyers $8000.00 Tax Credit Tax Information

2009-03-16T19:28:00.000-07:00

THAT is NOT TRUE!

However, the drawback is that the EZ form which most of them would file does not accommodate this so they will have to file the regular 1040.

I would be willing to share these forms with whomever wants them.......... just email me at franwhite@kc.rr.com........... in the subject line put TAX FORMS and I'll send them to you as PDF file you can print out.

And if you know someone who is wanting to buy, NOW is the time to do it.....if they are looking in the Kansas City North area, have them give me a call 816-682-3897

Until next time.......

Super Secret Spices...www.penzeysone.com

2009-03-12T17:07:00.001-07:00

Every once in a while we venture out of our neighborhood in the Northland and go to this fabulous spice store that carries nothing but SPICES!
I know I've mentioned before that my wonderful husband was a Chef in another life before he became a Pharmaceutical Robot Engineer........ and that the kitchen is HIS domain !
We have this special place that we go to in old Overland Park, Kansas, just a hop, skip and a jump from our neck of the woods.
Upon walking in your mouth begins to water at the mere possibilities of what you could dress up with their array of spicies from all over the world. It's truly delightful!
You can get anything from vanilla from other parts of the world to mouth watering garlic to dried chopped celery.....
We can't even go in the place without dropping fifty bucks! They also have boxed gift sets for every occasion
It's a real treat! Check out their website http://www.penzysone.com/

And you are ALWAYS greated with a smiling face!

Until next time...............

Gladstone Discusses Being Smoke Free

2009-02-24T15:42:00.000-08:00

This week the Gladstone City Council hammered out the details of its ban on smoking in most enclosed places.... places of employment and public places within city limits. This includes Gladstone's thirteen parks.

The ban does have some exceptions for instance: bowling alleys, pool halls, bars and restaurants that seat less than 75 people as long as they post a sign that says "non-smoking areas are NOT available."

A decision to my knowledge hasn't been reached as yet... but watch for a decision to be made shortly.

First Time Buyers Get 8000.00 For Buying A Home

2009-02-24T10:17:00.000-08:00

Yes, you read correctly..... a lovely couple that I just worked with are getting $8000.00 for buying a home.

Of course I'd love to tell you that it was just for the pleasure of working with me, but in all honesty it's due to the new American Recovery and Reinvestment Act

They qualified in every way...
#1. They haven't owned a home in the last three years
#2. They purchased between 1/1/09 and 12/1/09
#3. Their combined income wasn't over $150,000
#4. They intend to keep the house for three years.

With anyone who is wanting to get a home, you need to have your credit in order in addition to all the requirements of the act.

So if you have been sitting on the fence and not making a decision to buy a home ... Now is the time!

If you need some assistance with your real estate needs, please feel free to call me. 816-682-3897

Cocoa Mulch.... DANGER to Dogs and Cats

2009-02-19T17:34:00.000-08:00

I am a pet lover and the new ownere of a Kerry Blue Terrier.... I use mulch in my yard and so do some of my clients in the Kansas City North area. I felt this important information to share to keep your pets safe.

With the Spring season upon us, please be sure and check the contents of the mulch you are putting in your landscaping.

Checked on Snopes and it is true. ( http://www.snopes.com/critters/crusader/cocoamulch.asp)

Over the weekend the doting owner of two young lab mixes purchased Cocoa Mulch from local discount store to use in their garden. They loved the way it smelled and it was advertised to keep cats away from their garden. Their dog Calypso decided that the mulch smelled good enough to eat and devoured a large helping. She vomited a few times which was typical when she eats something new but wasn't acting lethargic in any way. The next day, Mom woke up and took Calypso out for her morning walk . Half way through the walk, she had a seizure and died instantly.

Although the mulch had NO warnings printed on the label, upon further investigation on the company's website, this product is HIGHLY toxic to dogs and cats.

Cocoa Mulch is manufactured by Hershey's, and they claim that 'It is true that studies have shown that 50% of the dogs that eat Cocoa Mulch can suffer physical harm to a variety of degrees (depending on each individual dog). However, 98% of all dogs won't eat it.'

Cocoa Mulch, contains a lethal ingredient called ' Theobromine'. It is lethal to dogs and cats. It smells like chocolate and it really attracts dogs. They will ingest this stuff and die. Several deaths already occurred in the last 2-3 weeks. Theobromine is in all chocolate, especially dark or baker's chocolate which is toxic to dogs. Cocoa bean shells contain potentially toxic quantities of theobromine, a xanthine compound similar in effects to caffeine and theophylline. A dog that ingested a lethal quantity of garden mulch made from cacao bean shells developed severe convulsions and died 17 hours later. Analysis of the stomach contents and the ingested cacao bean shells revealed the presence of lethal amounts of theobromine.

First Time Buyers Tax Credit Info

2009-02-01T09:18:00.001-08:00

This just in from a Mortgage lady I refer to:

The $7500 tax credit for first time buyers is a great thing to help stimulate interest. There have been a lot of questions and little clarification. The Tax groups are finally getting some information. Here is a recent clarification:

Unmarried couples get a break on claiming the new credit for home buyers. They can allocate the credit any way they want. Example: If one of the two unmarried purchasers has more than $95,000 of AGI, the credit can be allocated in full to the other buyer. Similarly, if one of the buyers has owned a principal residence in the past three years and thus is not eligible to claim the credit, the entire credit can be taken by the other. The maximum credit is 10% of the purchase price, but not more than $7500. For homes purchased in the first 6 months of 2009, buyers can claim the credit on their 2008 return or they can file an amended return. When filing a joint tax return as a married couple, neither buyer can have owned a home in the last 3 years.

Missouri Housing Development Corporation has come up with a program in which buyers can "borrow" against the $7500, up front, for their downpayment, and pay MHDC back when they receive their funds. Missouri is the first state to come up with a program to get the money up front to help with downpayment.

Obama - McCain.....Missouri and Kansas Voting Info

2008-10-30T19:29:00.000-07:00

Just a few days and all the election commercials will be over.... and you can watch your television in peace.

In case you are in Missouri or Kansas here is some voting information for you:

In Missouri.... you can get Voter and Poll Information including locations, accepted forms of ID, listings of county clerks for Clay, Platte, Cass and Jackson counties at Vote KC

In Kansas..... you can get Voter and Poll Information Vote Kansas

And for your entertainment...... here's a video of the line getting into one of the rallies that was held here in Kansas City for one of the Presidential Candidates. If you ask me real nice, I'll tell you which one OR you can GUESS. :)

It's Pumpkin Picking Time in Kansas City

2008-10-15T14:22:00.000-07:00

It's that time again here in Kansas City when we pack up the kids for a day of events at one of the area Pumpkin Patches!

Weston Red Barn Farm
This farm was puchased in 1989 by Steve and Cindi Frey. They have a pumpking patch, orchards, sheep to pet and pony rides in beautiful and historic Weston.

Johnson Farms
With over 30 acres you can pick your own pumpkin or buy them already picked! The wagon rides and animal corral are great fun for the kids. They have gourdes, squash and flowers too.

KC Pumpkin Patch
Here you will find 10's or 1,000's of U-Pick pumpkins and many other activities to keep your children busy all day!

Carolyn's Country Cousins
In Liberty, Missouri is just plain fun! A "mega" pumpkin patch, animal barn, pig races and you can even make your own scarecrow!

Pumpkins Etc.
Located east of Platte City they have a down home pumpkin patch, gourds and beautiful mums.
It's a family run farm, not heavy on the bling but full of old fashioned fun.

Please check out the links of their websites for more information.

I'd like to personally thank an old and dear friend Katy for the use of her gorgeous little pumpkin pickers pictures for this post.

Weston Irish Fest

2008-10-15T14:04:00.000-07:00

We had this pleasure this past weekend of attending the Weston Irish Fest. It usually takes place around the second weekend of October every year for about the last nine years. This year they couldn't have had better weather! The trees were beginning to turn color, there was a breeze in the air and little or no humidity. As we were walking down the street of the friendly sidewalks of Weston, Missouri I encountered this young lad. He was really talented and I couldn't resist putting money in his violin case after this stellar performance!

The Kansas City Zoo Announces October and November are F R E E

2008-10-05T17:09:00.000-07:00

Yes, you read right..... The Kansas City Zoo is offering free admission to Kansas City, Missouri residents for the months of October and November.

Of course you have to prove that you live in Kansas City, Missouri and rightfully so.

You will need proof of residence and a state-issued ID which is required at the admissions gate.

You can also verify that you are a resident with a bill or credit card statement, even a bank statement, with your name and Kansas City, Missouri address.

It is free during normal zoo hours.

Gladstone Raises Personal Property Tax Levy to Maximum

2008-09-03T13:05:00.000-07:00

In 2005 Gladstone voters approved a 39-cent property tax increase. That tax increase will begin showing up in your personal property tax bill this year.

The City Council has voted to set the city's 2008 tax levy at 93 cents per $100 of assessed valuation. So in other words if you buy a new car that cost $25,000 you are going to pay about 32.00 more in personal property taxes beginning this year.

This voter approved raise in taxes gave Gladstone leaders the authority to set the tax levy no higher than 93 cents per $100 of assessed valuation. Up until this year Gladstone council decided to stay at the existing tax rate of 54-cents per $100 of assessed valuation.

The reason for the decision to raise it is unexpected expenses which includes the May 2 tornado which cost the city more than $357,000 in payroll costs and repairs to city-owned facilities. In addition salt for road treatment went up $75,000 and fuel cost for city vehicles went up $71,000 over this past year.

News From My Lawn Guy

2008-08-05T15:57:00.000-07:00

August 2008
RYAN's Landscape Guide
Making the most of your environmental space

In This Issue
Weed Control is Tough

Sycamore Anthracnose

Fall Seeding

Landscape Pests

Bed Weed Control

Landscape Calendar

At a Glance
Mowing Guidelines:
Bluegrass: 2-2.5"
Fescue: 2.5-3"
Zoysia/Bermuda: 0.5-2"

Watering Guidelines:
70-80 degrees:
1" every 5-7 days
80-90 degrees:
1" every 3-5 days
90-100 degrees:
1" every 2-3 days

Quick Links
Ask a RYANPro
Current Conditions
View Resource Library

RYAN's Green Tip

We've had a wet spring, but now it's starting to get dry. Make the most of your watering by watering at sunrise to minimize evaporation and disease incidence.
Weed Control is Tough this Time of Year
Be Patient

We've had a wet spring, which has led to lots of weeds. Weed control is included as part of your lawn care program. Hot temperatures can slow the weed control process because weeds (like all plants) slow their growth when it is hot and dry. Since growth is slowed, they do not absorb our weed control products as quickly. As a result, more time may be required to achieve satisfactory results. Your patience is appreciated.

As always, if you find weeds coming up between applications, give us a call. We'll send your RYAN Pro out to take care of them. Remember, service calls are free for customers on a full program.
Stop Sycamore Anthracnose
Treat Sycamores now

We had a cool, wet spring, which is the perfect environment for the fungus that causes antracnose. Sycamore anthracnose is seldom fatal, but can be a big nuisance, affecting hundreds of sycamore trees every year. We can help protect your tree from this disease.

Homeowners with unprotected sycamores are already noticing dead leaves and twigs falling (dead twigs and limbs are a more serious problem that can result from this disease.)

RYAN can treat your sycamore with a plant protection product every other year in late summer. The first treatment will start attacking the fungus in the live twigs and protect branches from damage due to infection. Consecutive treatments give added protection to newly emerging leaves. This will significantly reduce premature leaf and twig drop next season.
Fall Seeding Season is Coming
Evaluate your lawn for seeding needs

Fall is the optimum time to seed your lawn. Cool season lawns often have seeding needs; look for thin areas or bare spots. This is also the best time to eliminate poorly performing grass-types by converting to improved grass species.

If you find you have areas that need seeding, choose your seed wisely. Great lawns start with the best grass; we have Gold Tag seed available for purchse (if you want to seed yourself.)

If you are interested in RYAN seeding, call today for an estimate.
Late Summer Landscape Pests
Regular monitoring key to control

Fall Webworm
Fall webworm nests dot fall landscapes every year. The second generation appears from late July to late September. Look for webbing on the outer branches of trees. Unlike tent caterpillars, webworms feed inside their webs; as food is consumed, they enlarge their nests.

Since damage occurs so late in the season, control is optional. High populations can completely defoliate host plants, but plants recover without incident.

The best control is to remove and destroy infested portions of branches while webs are small. This can be done by pruning or using a pole with a hook. Stick the pole with a nail inserted crossways into individual webs. Twist the pole after insertion and remove the nest.

Yellow Necked Caterpillars
Yellow necked caterpillars are still affecting landscapes. They attack a broad range of plants including fruit trees, hickory, beech, birch, elm, maple and walnut.

Homeowners need to be vigilant in monitoring their landscape plants as they can be destroyed quickly by these pests. Yellow necked caterpillar eggs (layed in masses in late June or early July,) hatch at the the same time. This means trouble for unsuspecting homeowners because caterpillars feed in groups.

Contact RYAN for assistance controlling landscape pests.
Fall Bed Weed Control
Spend less time weeding next season

Every year homeowners spend hours pulling weeds out of landscape beds. Consider reducing the time you spend pulling weeds next season by adding our preemergent bed weed control to your program.

Our bed weed control applications can achieve 90 percent control of both broadleaf and grassy weeds. For the best control, we recommend two applications, one in the fall and one in the spring.

Contact your RYAN Pro to add this service to your program.
Landscape Calendar: August
• Mow regularly with a sharp mower blade. You should be mowing at least once a week.
• Inspect your landscape for signs of disease. Call RYAN now for a preventative control program next season.
• Water every 1-5 days, depending on the heat, to keep plants and lawn from drying out.
• Water flowerbeds and lightly fertilize annual flowers.
• Look for seeding needs. Call RYAN for Gold Tag seed.
• Aerate zoysia and bermuda now. Mow these lawns short (0.5-2") throughout the season.
• Keep hummingbird feeders clean and filled with nectar.
• Fill the birdbath to invite birds into your landscape.

New Missouri Prescription Drug Card is FREE

2008-07-31T08:19:00.001-07:00

While visiting my Aunt and Uncle in Branson I saw a story about the new Missouri Drug Card Program on television.

The website states that as a resident of Missouri you have access to a FREE prescription drug card program.

If you go to www.missouridrugcard.com you can download your Prescription Card after putting in some simple information and supposedly have a savings of 75% at over 50,000 national and regional pharmacies.

The card is pre-activated and can be used immediately.

* I haven't personally tried this but thought it would be good information for anyone that needs assistance with prescription drug costs.

Missouri Sales Tax Free Holiday 2008

2008-07-24T08:22:00.001-07:00

We're in the heat of the summer and I can remember as a kid HATING to go shopping for fall/winter clothes right before school starts!

CHA-CHING! Now as an adult with the Missouri Sales Tax Free Holiday coming up August 1,2,3,2008 I can see how parents can save $$$$ shopping during those days!

Some will read this and say, "What are you talking about Fran?"

Missouri has this great holiday which begins at 12:01 AM on the first Friday in August and it ends at midnight three days later.

It means that you get tax free purchases on certain back-to-school needs like clothing, school supplies, computers and computer software.

The sales tax exemption is limited to:

Clothing - Any article having a taxable value of $100 or less.
School Supplies - Not to exceed $50 per purchase
Computer Software - Taxable value of $350 or less
Personal Computers - Not to exceed $3,500
Computer Peripheral Devices - Not to exceed $3,500
Be sure and consult the Missouri Department of Revenuefor a complete listing of items that are Tax Exempt.

KEEP IN MIND..... that some cities and counties choose not to be a part of this holiday..

Beverly Hills, Missouri, North Kansas City, Oak Grove, Platte Woods, Platte City and Smithville I've been told are opting out for this year (2008). But for a complete list of areas not participating be sure to check the Department of Revenue website. They have non-participants listed as:

Sales Tax Holiday - Cities Opting Out

Below is the list of cities that will not participate in the 2008 sales tax holiday. City sales tax in these locations will still be collected on the sale of qualifying holiday items.

Alton
Ashland
Ash Grove
Aurora
Ballwin
Battlefield
Bellerive Acres
Berkeley
Beverly Hills
Black Jack
Blackwater
Bland
Bloomfield
Bolivar
Boonville
Branson
Brentwood
Bridgeton
Byrnes Mill
Cabool
Camdenton
Cameron
California
Canton
Carl Junction
Carthage
Cassville
Centertown
Chamois
Charlack
Chillicothe
Clayton
Clinton
Collins
Columbia
Cool Valley
Cottleville
Crystal City
Des Peres
DeSoto
Desloge
Doniphan
Edmundson
Eldon
Eldorado Springs
Ellisville
Ellsinore
Elsberry
Everton
Fair Grove
Farmington
Fayette
Fenton
Ferguson
Festus
Flint Hill
Freeman
Freemont Hills
Frontenac
Fulton
Garden City
Gerald
Glasgow
Granby
Grandin
Grant City
Green City
Greendale
Half Way
Hartville
Hawk Point
Hayti
Higginsville
Hollister
Holts Summit
Houston
Ironton
Jane
Jefferson City
Joplin
Kennett
Kingdom City
Kirkwood
Koshkonong
Ladue
Laurie
Leadington
Liberal
Licking
Loma Linda
Malden
Manchester
Maplewood
Marble Hill
Marceline
Marlborough Village
Marshfield
Marthasville
Merriam Woods Village
Meta
Moberly
Montgomery
Moscow Mills
Mountain Grove
Mountain View
Mount Vernon
Naylor
Neosho
New Haven
New Madrid
New Melle
Nixa
Noel
Norborne
North Kansas City
Northwoods
Oak Grove
Oakland
Osage Beach
Overland
Owensville
Ozark
Palmyra
Paris
Pattonsburg
Pevely
Platte City
Platte Woods
Poplar Bluff
Purdy
Qulin
Reeds Spring
Richmond
Richmond Heights
Riverside
Rockaway Beach
Rock Hill
Rolla
Savannah
Sedalia
Seligman
Shelbina
Shrewsbury
Skidmore
Smithton
Smithville
Springfield
St Ann
St Mary
St Peters
Ste Genevieve
Stockton
Sugar Creek
Taos
Thayer
Town & Country
Trenton
Twin Oaks
University City
Urich
Vandalia
Velda
Walnut Grove
Warson Wood
Washburn
Waynesville
Webster Grove
West Plains
Willard
Willow Springs

New Staley High School Built GREEN

2008-07-20T07:42:00.000-07:00

New Kansas City North High School Goes Green - Staley High School To Open For 08-09 School Year (edit/delete)
Yes... GREEN is one of Staley High Schools colors along with black and silver.

But that's not what I was talking about when I said Staley High School was going GREEN... I meant Staley High School is the only school in the four-state region to adopt the green concept, and was one of the first in the country to register the school as a LEED-registered project.

The high school is the fourth high school in the North Kansas City School District located in the northern portion of the district.

All the classrooms have an occupancy sensor system. Which means the lights come on when someone enters and go off when everyone is gone. (What my mother wouldn't have given to have something like that when I was a kid.)

A good percentage of the from of the school is glass. But not any kind of glass, it's the kind that draws heat in.

The geo-thermal heating system is designed to store heat in the summer and use it in the winter.

Low-flow water system that reduces water usage by about 50% were installed in all the restrooms and elsewhere.

There's approximately eighty-nine million dollard of steel in the structure and most of it is recycled.

The large collections pond outside collects the rainwater and it will be used to water the landscaping.

There have been many families moving into the Staley High School boundaries, I myself have had requests for houses in the Staley area.

Here are other tid-bits that are listed on the Staley High School Website:

314,000 square-foot, 2-story building on 80 acres
48-acre "green space" surrounds the school with 3 ponds and 2 streams
1,500-student capacity with a potential for 2,000 with Phase II expansion
2 competitive gymnasiums
750-seat auditorium and a "flex" theater
District Activity Complex on 64 acres includes District Varsity Soccer Stadium
District Football Stadium to seat 6,000 spectators
Built according to U.S. Green Building Council certification standards

Day Trip From Kansas City to The Bridges of Madison County

2008-07-11T05:53:00.000-07:00

The www.madisoncounty.com website says: "The Bridges of Madison County" was made on location in Madison County, Iowa. A reconstructed farm house provided the key set, with additional sequences shot in the towns of Winterset and Adel, along with the actual Roseman and Holliwell covered bridges. Locations were coordinated with the full cooperation of the Iowa Film Commission, Winterset and Adel Chambers of Commerce, and the Madison County Covered Bridge Preservation Society. You've seen the movie "The Bridges of Madison County" where Robert Kindaid (Clint Eastwood) comes to Madison County, Iowa to take pictures of the covered bridges because he is a professional photographer on assignment with National Geographic magazine. He asks directions from Francesca Johnson (Meryle Streep) who's at home, alone because her husband and two children have left for four days for the Illinois state fair....... well the rest is in the movie but I had fun taking pictures in Madison County today!

How To Find Out What Crime Is Happening In Your Neighborhood

2008-07-03T14:50:00.001-07:00

I've just learned of www.crimereports.com .... a great website that no matter where you are in the U.S. you can put in an address or a zip code and see what kind of crime is happening in your neighborhood.

It appeared that there was a place to also search for sex offenders.

They give you the option of signing up for e-mail notifications of crimes in a certain area. Of course I had to sign up and see how it worked!

How To Stay Safe This 4th At The Lake Of The Ozarks

2008-07-02T17:12:00.001-07:00

It's a common known fact that many people go to the Lake of the Ozarks for the holiday weekend.

This year if you want to stay safe be extra careful not to consume any of the water while swimming.

Recent testing has found levels of e. coli bacteria that are above the state's acceptable limits.

The samples that showing the highest levels were found at Horseshoe Bend.

The http://www.lakesunleader.com that serves the Ozarks has the full story.

5519 NW 84th Ct. Kansas City, MO 64155 "A Great Home!"

2008-06-26T14:24:00.001-07:00

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters

2008-06-09T16:11:00.000-07:00

In the summer, people tend to look for ways to light up outdoor spaces for family gatherings, like patios, yards and pool areas. While warm weather brings people outdoors, it is important to be careful when using electrical devices, whether it is a gardening tool, a bug zapper or even just a radio.
Although summer is a time for fun, it's worth it to take a few minor safety precautions that could prevent a major mishap. Most importantly, do not use electrical appliances in wet area — ever ! Be careful using cords around pools, ponds or damp areas. Even wet grass can create a hazard. If you must use electrical appliances around these locations, be sure to use only Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protected outlets or extension cords that have the GFCI built into the cord.

Why do I need Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs)?
GFCIs can help prevent electrocution. "Ground faults" are often the result of damaged appliance cords or consumers who use electrical products in wet environments, such as bathrooms or swimming pool decks. GFCIs detect any leakage of electrical current in a circuit that might be flowing through a person using an electrical device. When such a loss is detected the GFCI turns electricity off before serious injuries or electrocution can occur.

There are three types of GFCIs. The most common receptacle type GFCI, is similar to a common wall outlet. Additionally, circuit breaker GFCIs are often used as replacements for standard circuit breakers and provide GFCI protection to all receptacles on that individual circuit. Temporary or “plug-in” GFCIs are frequently used in outdoor settings with electric tools, mowers, trimmers and similar devices. Temporary GFCIs should never be used as a permanent alternative to a regular GFCI.

How can I install GFCIs in my home?
An estimated 400 million GFCIs are installed across the country, but there are still many older homes without GFCIs. By installing GFCIs in every home in the United States, the U.S. Product Safety Commission (CPSC) estimates that more than two-thirds of the approximately 300 electrocutions occurring each year could be prevented!

Consumers are encouraged to use a qualified electrician to install receptacle and circuit breaker-type GFCIs. The portable GFCI requires no special knowledge or equipment to install, but it does require testing before every use.

Do I have to test the other GFCIs in my home?
Like all electronic devices, GFCIs can be damaged or wear out, and may need to be replaced over time. Many consumers, however, don't check their GFCIs to verify they are working. And while the electrical receptacles in a GFCI may continue to function, the GFCI circuit may no longer work. As a result, the National Electric Safety Foundation (NESF) encourages a simple test once a month and after any violent thunderstorm.

Whether you have a receptacle-type or circuit breaker-type GFCI, pushing the TEST button should turn off the power of the circuit.

To test a receptacle-type GFCI:

Push the RESET button located on the GFCI to assure normal GFCI operation.
Plug a nightlight (with an ON/OFF switch) or other product (such as a lamp) into the GFCI and turn the product ON.
Push the TEST button located on the GFCI. The nightlight or other product should go OFF.
Push the RESET button again. The light or other product should go ON again.
If the light or other product remains ON when the TEST button is pushed, the GFCI is not working properly and a certified electrician should be called in to assess the situation and, if necessary, rewire or replace the GFCI.

Testing your circuit breaker GFCI:

• Locate the circuit breaker box.
• Verify that the breaker toggle is in ON position.
• Press the TEST button on the circuit.
• The toggle switch should snap to the TRIPPED position.
• RESET and return the toggle to the ON position. Power will be restored.

If the circuit breaker fails to trip when the test button is pressed, it must be checked by a qualified electrician immediately.

GFCIs are Not a Replacement for Common Sense Safety
It is important to remember that GFCIs are only back-up safety devices — you must always use common sense with electrical products. Be sure to take extra care wherever water and electricity are present. Even with GFCIs, electricity and water do not mix.

How To Select A Home Inspector

2008-04-04T08:56:00.000-07:00

How Do You Select the Right Home Inspector?
As sure as the spring flows at The Fountain of Youth, home inspecting provides a stream of knowledge to wash away the fears of home buyers. But fear may be replaced by frustration if the wrong inspector is chosen! Some pointers on selecting your next home inspector will go a long way toward making the process a happy one.
1) Be sure to ask how long the inspector has been in the inspection business. Longevity gives comfort that the company will be with you in the future as new needs and issues arise.
2) How many inspections has the inspector personally performed? This is important! An inspector may have been in business for 5 years but inspected less than a dozen homes. Your home buying decision is far too important to be a practice place for a part-time inspector.
3) Confirm that your inspector has experience in homes similar to the home you are having inspected. All homes have some systems and features in common, but a new home in Johnson county has risks and issues that differ from an historic beauty on Ward Parkway. Only someone who has walked the walk and crawled the crawl numerous times in similar homes can sleuth out those important items.
4) Is your inspector ASHI certified? In our states, the business of home inspection is unregulated. This makes it especially important to verify professional credentials and experiences before making a selection. If they aren’t certified they don’t want to learn!
5) Ask when the report will be delivered. Often the buying decision is time critical, you want to be sure you will receive your completed report in time to read, review, and respond. The best companies can deliver the report to you right at the home as the inspection is completed.
6) Does the completed report include photographs? Often the report will contain descriptions of damage or defect in locations of the home that only the inspector was able to access, like rooftops or crawl spaces. You will want pictures of these areas to make your understanding of the scope and location of the damage clear. It also makes repairs simpler to get estimated when a photograph is available.
7) Lastly, be sure to attend the home inspection, watch the process, and ask lots of questions - the history of your home will unfold before your very eyes!
Our beautiful country is rich in homes and heritage, and your home inspector can help you to know the past and enjoy the future in your new home!

First Choice Home Inspections: 816-554-1199

First Time Buyers Beware: That Only Happens On Television

2008-03-04T08:56:00.000-08:00

I've been showing a lot of first time buyers lately that have been watching a lot of television shows that show home remodeling, home decorating, and home buying.

Don't get me wrong, most of those shows are full of useful information, remodeling and decorating ideas and they can even give you tips on things to look for when shopping for a home that could be problematic... so they can be useful.

But please keep in mind that these are nationwide shows, some are even shot in Canada, and not everything they say apply to every area of the country.

Remodeling projects that they say can be completed in a weekend would be a tough job for seasoned hands, let along two women single handedly.

One show suggests that when you find a home you want to make an offer on "low-ball them." In other words, if they are asking 225,000.00 go in and offer them 25,000.00 less right off the bat.

I'm an advocate for negotiating a good deal, but my experience has been that this type of low-balling offends the sellers. I've even had a couple of sellers even refuse to make a counter offer because they were insulted.

Work with your REALTOR®. Ask them to show you comps in the neighborhood of homes that have sold as well as those for sale. Compare them to the home you want to make an offer on and proceed with a sensible offer.

I hear more and more REALTORS® working with sellers stressing the importance of pricing homes properly to sell in this market of over abundance.

Then there are those sellers who are having to bring money to the table to even sell their homes and have very little wiggle room.

I understand everyone wants a deal but just because the television shows are telling you to "low ball and ask for your closing costs to be paid," doesn't mean that it always happens or it's the rule of thumb to follow. In my opinion that only happens every-time on television.

I work with buyers and sellers so I see, feel and understand both sides.

As a buyer if you really want the home and give an outrageously low offer on a home that is priced correctly and the sellers get offended and refuse to counter - then you have lost out on a home that you really wanted and you are disappointed. That isn't a win/win for anyone.

Work with your REALTORS® and as buyers and sellers make mindful decisions.... and remember everything that is seen on television isn't always the case.

FHA Mortgages

2008-02-15T19:48:00.000-08:00

FHA Mortgage Information
I had a wonderful and interesting chat with Jeff Belonger today my Blog Talk Radio Show about FHA Mortgages.

Jeff Belonger, also known as The FHA Expert, took the time to lend some interesting information about FHA Mortgages in general.

Jeff comes equipped with over 15 years experience in the mortgage industry and is packed full of knowledge about FHA mortgages.

If you would like to listen to the radio show in it's entirety please feel free to listen in using the link below.
.

Kansas City Home Inspectors

2008-01-28T18:00:00.000-08:00

I don't mind telling you that 95% of my clients have chosen to used First Choice Home Inspectors when buying Kansas City Real Estate.

I have always found them to be thourough, investigative and correct in their inspections.

Now they are offering mold inspections as one of their services. Read below the effects of mold.

If you need help with your North Kansas City Real Estate needs, please call me.

Fran White, REALTOR®
816-682-3897
Reece and Nichols Residential

First Choice is Now Offering Mold Inspections!
Chris McCullough at First Choice Property Evaluations, Inc. is now certified to perform Mold inspections. We have added this service to provide a complete package of home inspection services.

We now offer Whole House, Whole House with Licensed Engineer (PE), Certified Radon Testing, Termite Inspections, Mold Inspections, Thermal Camera Inspections, Foundation and Structural Inspections.

Asthma has increased 300 percent in children in the past ten years. Research by WHO, in Germany, finds prostate cancer, breast cancer, and other cancers increasing due to mold-related problems.

Mold is the number one health problem with one in every three persons affected by mold and one in ten with a severe problem related to mold. These can range from the common cold, tonsillitis, sinusitis, bronchitis, asthma, and pneumonia, to cancer.
Check your home's humidity levels; buy or borrow a hygrometer and watch the changes in R.H. that occur throughout a typical day in different rooms of the house and over the heating season. To inspect your home for mold growth, winter is the best time except for basements which should also be inspected in the summer. With a flashlight and some simple tools, go through the entire house, both inside and outside, searching for moisture damage and mold growth and their potential causes.

The Stachybotrus species of mold is dangerous; it will start growing in 80 percent humidity but, once established, can grow at 55 percent humidity. This mold can develop from the decay of building materials and is much harder to control. If more than ten square feet develop, it is advised that a professional clean it up. When you see a small speck of mold, that's only part of the problem - the remainder being inside the walls.

Some of the causes of mold include: brush and trees within 30 feet of the building; venting the clothes drier inside the home; furniture against outside walls; plants and aquariums; standing water, such as keeping cold water in the kitchen sink; hot tubs; using several gallons of water to wash floors. 'Sick Building Syndrome' is caused by moisture and mold growth. It migrates through foundations up from the soil.
A dehumidifier is not the final answer as it only does the air and not the walls. What is required is a combination of ventilation, circulation and heat. Carpenter ants and termites will smell moisture from miles away and they only attack damaged wood. Ventilation alone won't help a crawl space. In the summer the vents bring in warm, moist air.

Mold forms on the coldest space. The only way to deal with it is with heat. Wall heaters with fans are more efficient than baseboard heaters.

Pull furniture and store material away from exterior walls and off basement floors; leave closet doors ajar; leave bedroom doors open as much as possible; undercut doors; don't block or deflect warm air registers; open drapes, blinds, and curtains; set the furnace fan to run continuously. This will use more electricity but can be offset by installing a two-speed energy-efficient motor; don't cut off the heating supply or close off unused rooms.

Uninsulated or poorly insulated areas such as exterior corners or foundation walls, should be improved with additional insulation. Be sure to install an air-vapor barrier, usually polyethylene, on the room side of the insulation to prevent hidden condensation behind the insulation. Seal hidden opening into the attic, tighten the attic hatch, weather-strip and caulk around windows and doors, gasket electrical outlets, caulk baseboards and seal the top of foundations. Using an air conditioner on muggy summer days also helps take out the moisture.

Humidifiers, dehumidifiers, air-conditioning units and filtration systems can be a source of mold growth if they are not regularly cleaned.

Key areas to check for moisture sources leading to condensation inside the home are roof leaks (especially at chimneys and skylights); wall leaks (especially at window sills and doors); foundation leaks (especially where the ground slopes toward the foundation); and plumbing leaks (especially at toilet bases and under sink drains).
Check any fuel-burning equipment - furnaces, hot water heaters, boilers, fireplaces and wood stoves - to ensure that they are venting properly. A blocked chimney could mean that combustion products, including large amounts of water vapor, are spilling into your house. Along with that moisture come dangerous combustion gasses, such as carbon monoxide, which cause deaths every year. Have heating equipment and venting systems checked by a trained service person.

If your moisture remedial work includes extensive air sealing, be sure that all fuel-burning equipment has an adequate supply of combustion air. High efficiency furnaces, for example, have their own air supplies and exhaust fans but conventional equipment may rely on house air for combustion and on 'natural draft' to move combustion products up the chimney flue. If starved for air or overpowered by an exhaust fan somewhere else in the house, such equipment can spill combustion gasses indoors. Examples of this include stains near the vent of a gas water heater, smoke entering the room from a wood-burning fireplace or stove, and pilot lights being blown out.

Mold growth often occurs in out-of-the-way areas like closets, corners, walls behind furniture and unused rooms. Increasing air circulation to these areas warms the cold surfaces and lowers local humidity levels.

To solve moisture problems, cover any exposed earth in a crawl space or basement with heavy polyethylene; slope soil away from foundations to keep basement walls and slab dry; patch foundation leaks; don't use humidifiers; avoid drying firewood indoors; operate bathroom exhaust fans during a shower; use your range hood exhaust when cooking; and, avoid steam-cleaning carpets in winter.

Molds are parasitic micro-organisms that appear as black, white or multi-colored stain or fuzz. In addition to causing asthma, they can cause other allergies and serious health problems. There are tens of thousand of varieties of molds and are difficult and expensive to identify, even for experts. Health officials recommend eliminating all molds from inside your home.

Most mold spores need condensation or damp materials to germinate and once are established, many colonies generate their own moisture and can continue to survive even under dry conditions. They also need mild temperatures and a source of food, such as house dust or drywall paper.

First Choice Property Evaluations, Inc.
705-B SE Melody Ln. # 199 Lees Summit, MO 64063
Phone: (816)-554-1199 Email: support@firstchoicekc.com

The State of Things

2008-01-21T21:27:00.000-08:00

Home Price Forecast For Kansas City Missouri

2008-01-16T09:48:00.000-08:00

Home Price Forecast for Kansas City Missouri (edit/delete)
The Kansas City Business Journal reported that the Kansas City area house prices should fare better than other cities'.

In other words the home prices in Kansas City will avoid the price declines expected in the next two years in other markets.

PMI Mortgage Insurance Co released their Winter 2008 U.S. Market Risk Index and their forecast is that there is a less than 5% chance that prices in Kansas City will fall through 2010.

So if you have been sitting on the fence trying to wait out home prices, wait no more. The odds of prices going down any further are slim.

If you need help with your North Kansas City Real Estate needs, don't hesitate to contact me.

Fran White, North Kansas City Real Estate, 816-682-3897

NOW Is the Time To Buy A Home In North Kansas City.

2008-01-09T09:32:00.000-08:00

I was poking around over on Chris Lengquist's Kansas City Real Estate Investing blog reading his blog on 2007 and it got me to thinking! (Imagine that!)

We as REALTORS should be the mouthpiece for what the real estate industry.

You hear on the news that "oh the housing market is bad" and immediately prospective buyers/sellers think "Oh I shouldn't buy or sell a home now." That's ridiculous!

Yesterday in sales meeting they said that 30 year fixed rates were at 5.75%.. people are you listening? That is the lowest the rates have been in the last 2 years and 6 months.

What's wrong with this picture? Rates are down and people are still afraid to buy. Why?

If I can help you with your North Kansas City Real Estate needs or you have any questions you can call me or post them here.

Happy New Year North Kansas City Real Estate Owners

2008-01-03T13:06:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year to all of my wonderful readers. The holidays are over and it’s time to get back into “real estate” mode.

If you are planning to get your home on the market for Spring, start to get it ready now!

A fresh coat of paint will brighten any room. Clean the carpets. Touch up the molding. Do whatever needs to be done now to get it ready.

My experience has been that Spring market starts in March. It begins to warm and people get in the mood to begin to look for their new homes.

If you need assistance with some ideas on what you could do to get your North Kansas City home ready for spring market, give me a call. I’d love to come by and give you some ideas.

Fran White 816-682-3897

2007-12-12T11:32:00.001-08:00

To see more, go to my http://activerain.com/blogs/franwhite blog

Mobile post sent by FranWhite using Utterz. Replies. mp3

2007-12-11T13:49:00.001-08:00

Mobile post sent by FranWhite using Utterz. Replies. mp3

2007-12-11T13:48:00.001-08:00

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2007-12-10T17:52:00.001-08:00

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2007-12-10T17:50:00.001-08:00

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2007-12-10T17:16:00.001-08:00

Well I'm getting all prepared for the upcoming icestorm using Utterz! Traditionally in Kansas City we get horrible ice storms and we are in for 18 hours of it starting now!
I'll keep you up to date on the weather through my Utterz.

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7 Tips To Spruce Up Your Home This Winter

2007-12-01T04:01:00.000-08:00

When it's cold and the weather encourages us all to spend more time inside it makes us look at our surroundings.

Here are some ideas of things you could do to spruce up your home this winter season!

First determine the kind of lifestyle you live in your home and a budget.

Ask yourself, "what's my style?"

Do you have children or visiting children? Do you entertain a lot? Do you prefer contemporary or casual?

Paint works wonders. Dollar for dollar, paint
gives you the greatest bang for your buck. You
can totally change the look of a room by painting
the walls, trim or ceiling a different color.

Wallpaper is back! And it’s better and more
fashionable than ever. Today’s styles are more
varied, with textured vinyls that can simulate
stucco and grasscloth. You can get BIG looks
without spending a bundle, especially if you do
it yourself.

Toss it up. Bring life to that old sofa with some
fresh new toss pillows in different shapes and
complementary colors. Along the same lines,
throw rugs can add interest and instantly warm
up a room.

Accessorize, accessorize, accessorize!
Little things mean a lot. Give your home
personality with touches like floral arrangements,
plants, candles and artwork.

Visit flea markets and yard sales for unique items that can be
re-purposed. For example, transform an antique
milk can into a functional umbrella stand.

Turn on the light. Lighting can set the tone
for a room, so it’s important to choose the right
lamps and installed lighting.

Rooms should have a lighting source about every 10 feet, so consider
using both floor lamps and table lamps.

Treat them right. Custom window treatments
can cost hundreds or thousands of dollars, so
you’ll want to work with off-the-shelf shades,
swags and curtains.

Drapery panels that are positioned high above
the window and flow to the floor are “hot” right
now, as are Roman shades and eco-friendly
bamboo shades.

If you are just starting to look for a home in the North Kansas City real estate market and need some help, I'd be glad to. 816-682-3897

2007-11-27T08:15:00.001-08:00

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Happy Holidays!

2007-11-26T06:05:00.000-08:00

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Kansas City Kicks Off The Holiday Season

2007-11-26T03:57:00.001-08:00

The Holidays are officially kicked-off in Kansas City. Thanksgiving is over, the Plaza Lights are shining bright. The Mayor’s Christmas Tree is sparkling and Zona Rosa is all a twinkle with those beautiful crowns that use to call downtown Kansas City home.

But is it time to buy home in Kansas City? Of course it is! There are many amazing homes on the market at utterly amazing prices, now is the time. If you’ve even remotely considered buying a home in the last 6 months NOW is the time to do it, you’d be shocked at what you can get for your $$$!

If you’d like some assistance looking in the North Kansas City area I’d be more than glad to assist you!

Please feel free to call my cell 816-682-3897 or email me at FranWhite@kc.rr.com

1108 NW 73rd Terr., Kansas City, MO

2007-11-14T15:08:00.000-08:00

Click the details button at the bottom of the visual tour to get additional information on this property. If I can be of assistance with your real estate needs, please feel free to contact me at franwhite@kc.rr.com or 816-682-3897

Halloween Greetings!

2007-10-16T04:58:00.001-07:00

If you are needing a REALTOR®, give me a call.

Make video montages at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Oct 2007

2007-10-03T19:02:00.000-07:00

Meet Lola... well her name really isn't Lola, it's Dolores, but I have permission to call her Lola.

Lola is a dear friend of mine - we worked together in television.

In 2004, Lola was diagnosed with breast cancer.

With her son and husband to care for she wasn't quite sure how she was going to manage. Friends and family were eager to help with meals, car-pooling and housekeeping.

Keep everything straight on who was coming when and to do what was taxing - this normally vivacious, beautiful, spunky gal didn't need one more thing to keep track of while trying to concentrate on healing.

Being Lola...she created an online schedule system where friends and family could log in and sign up for whatever duties on whatever date and time was available.

It worked beautifully and everything got accomplished when it was suppose to.

Now 3 years later Lola has won her battle with cancer and just today launched her own dot.com.

MyPinkPlanner.com is a free online service offered to breast cancer survivors to give them an extra edge on organization while undergoing chemo or radiation.

I'm proud of Lola - she's helping make lemonade out of lemons for breast cancer patients.

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month please consider sharing this website with someone you know whose life has changed by breast cancer.

Good going Lola!

Fall is Upon Us...... Tree, Yard and Lawn Tips for Fall

2007-10-02T09:56:00.000-07:00

Help Lawns Recover from Summer
Fall watering can go a long way

If your lawn looks a bit rough after the heat and dry conditions summer normally brings, get out your hose. Fall watering is one of the best things you can do to bring your lawn back after a hot, dry summer.

We usually suggest watering each area of your lawn at least 30-90 minutes each time you water, depending on your sprinkler type. If you are restoring your lawn without seeding, plan to water every week in the absence of rain. As the days shorten and the nights become cool, there is less evaporation and watering lasts much longer.

If you have seeded your lawn, you should water daily for three weeks. Continue to water every 2-3 days once this time has passed.

Protection Next Season Starts Now
Our plant protection products prevent disease

As leaves begin to fall for this season, take time to think of next spring. With rake in hand, it is easy to think of deciduous trees, like crabapples and hawthorns, that are commonly susceptible to fungal diseases in the spring.

We must also turn our attention to susceptible evergreens. Scotch and Austrian pines are commonly infected by tip blight during wet spring months. Tip blight was especially bad this year, which means there is a greater risk of tip blight next spring. Of the steps you can take to minimize your pine's risk of infection, prevention is the best method.

All pines can be protected on a preventative basis. Proper timing of our applications can control the fungi and enable you to enjoy healthy trees next season. You can rest easy by placing your trees on our program now. Contact your RYAN Certified Arborist today.

Ready, Set, Rake!
Leaf clean-up important during fall months

As trees begin to shed their leaves for the fall season, grab your rake. It is important to keep up with leaf clean-up, especially on newly seeded lawns.

It may be tempting to use your mulching mower to grind up your leaves. However, this is not the best method. Large amounts of leaves can significantly increase the amount of organic matter in your lawn and may contribute to low pH levels.

High levels of organic matter in the soil in your turfgrass areas can cause lawns to dry out extremely fast during dry spells. If you would like to use your mulching mower to grind up your leaves, be sure to move them to your landscape beds where organic matter is needed. Otherwise, bag the leaves.

Mowing Season is Winding Down
Final mowing height, mower maintenance important

Soon we will be packing away our lawn mowers for the winter season. Before parking your mower, be sure to do a final mowing. (Both warm season and cool season turfgrasses should be cut at two inches for their final mowing.)

Mowing at two inches has improved cold tolerance among warm season turfgrass. It also prevents cool-season turfgrasses to from falling over under the weight of snow.

After mowing the lawn the final time, there are a few important maintenance things to do. First, sharpen the blade. Also, change the oil and add a fuel stabilizer to the gas tank. This will reduce hassles in the spring when you are ready to get outside and work.

Fall Optimum Time for Feeding Trees
Give trees, shrubs nutrients they need to thrive

Trees and shrubs undergo many stresses throughout the year. This year is no different. From freezing temperatures late in the spring to typical summer stresses, many trees and shrubs would benefit from fertilization.

In addition to assisting with stress recovery, root fertilization can increase plant health and vigorous root and shoot growth.

Landscape Calendar: October
Water cool-season lawns to help recovery from summer stress.
Continue to water newly seeded lawns every 2-3 days.
Call RYAN to fertilize your trees and shrubs.
Plant spring blooming bulbs for early color next season.
Plant pansies to complement spring flowering bulbs. Simply plant the pansies over spring bulbs for a dramatic display. Mulch well.
Remove begonias, caladiums, dahlias and other tuberous plants for overwintering indoors.
Empty ornamental containers and store for winter.
Continue to water and weed landscape beds as needed.

Mortgage News of the Week

2007-09-27T13:02:00.000-07:00

Here's the Kansas City area mortgage news from Carol Poppe

Carol Poppe, Vice President Mortgage
Ph 913-652-7302 cell 913-707-1153
www.fcbloan.com/CLPoppe

MORTGAGE NEWS FOR THE WEEK OF 09/27/2007

UPDATE ON MORTGAGE INSURANCE TAX DEDUCTIBILITY:

A House of Representative panel has met recently to enact a bill that will help ease problems in the housing crunch. Top on their list was changing the law that taxed homeowners on the amount of forgiven debt by lenders. As the law stands, homeowners who short sell their home back to their lender to avoid foreclosure get taxed on the forgiven debt because they treat it as income. The legislation was approved to change this rule.

The big news is that the committee proposed legislation to extend income tax deduction for private mortgage insurance. A temporary one is in place but is expiring December 31, 2007. The new legislation will extend this through December 31, 2014.

The new bill is backed by The National Association of Home Builders, the Mortgage Bankers Association, and the National Association of Realtors.

This new bill will be presented to the House of Representatives for a full House vote after the House Ways and Means Committee approved the bill by voice vote.

Pick Your Pumpkin!

2007-09-27T08:13:00.000-07:00

The Frost Will Soon Be On The Pumpkin

Ready for some old fashioned fun for your family weekend adventure?

It's time for Kansas Citians to visit one of the area Pumpkin Patches!

Weston Red Barn Farm
This farm was puchased in 1989 by Steve and Cindi Frey. They have a pumpking patch, orchards, sheep to pet and pony rides in beautiful and historic Weston.

Johnson Farms
With over 30 acres you can pick your own pumpkin or buy them already picked! The wagon rides and animal corral are great fun for the kids. They have gourdes, squash and flowers too.

KC Pumpkin Patch
Here you will find 10's or 1,000's of U-Pick pumpkins and many other activities to keep your children busy all day!

Carolyn's Country Cousins
In Liberty, Missouri is just plain fun! A "mega" pumpkin patch, animal barn, pig races and you can even make your own scarecrow!

http://www.pumpkins-etc.com/
Located east of Platte City they have a down home pumpkin patch, gourds and beautiful mums.
It's a family run farm, not heavy on the bling but full of old fashioned fun.

Check out the websites of these Pumpkin Patches for more information

Proposed Changes to FHA Loan by Brian Brockman with Plaza Mortgage

2007-09-24T20:41:00.000-07:00

NOTE: this bill has been proposed but not yet passed.

FHA Modernization Bill. Key provisions include a sales price limit increase to $271,050 in our area. There is a possible increase to $417,000 and to $730,000 in some areas. The increase to $271,050 would be effective immediately and higher limits may follow depending on how the bill is passed.

It is possible that the down payment would be lowered to 1.5% but then the upfront MIP would have to be included for a total of 3%. The House version includes a $0 down provision but it's doubtful it will be adopted.

The bill would also facilitate the acceptance of Fannie and Freddie condominium projects.

The Senate Banking Committee has approved this bill and there is bi-partisan acceptance. We should expect the process to be completed and signed by the President in the next 30 days.

What does it mean to you? More sales qualify for FHA due to a higher loan limit.
Since FHA is credit history and not credit score driven, more buyers are eligible.

Some FHA reminders - 1) Seller may contribute up to 6% of the sales price, 2) no termite inspection required unless appraiser sees obvious damage, 3) no non-allowables required to be paid by the seller, 4) buyer may currently be in a Chapter 13 bankruptcy, 5) loans are assumable - important if rates go to 8%, 6) Occupying borrower not required to have income. Great for parents buying for a college student!

Remember this bill has been proposed and not yet passed!

Fall Lawn Care Tips From My Ryan Lawn Guy

2007-09-04T10:29:00.000-07:00

Fall Seeding Instructions
Improve your lawn through seeding

If your lawn hasn't performed well this summer, now is a great time to seed. RYAN can help you improve the quality of turfgrass in your lawn, from seeding for you to selling you our Gold-Tag seed.

If you would like to seed yourself, follow these instructions:
Measure the area to be seeded.
Buy the seed you need. Great lawns start with the best grass. Call RYAN to buy Gold Tag seed.
Mow lawn at lowest setting.
Call RYAN if you think you have thatch. We'll suggest a plan to remove it.
Flag all sprinkler heads and valve boxes.
Put down starter fertilizer.
Apply seed carefully with a cyclone-type spreader.
Rent a verticutter and set it to cut grooves 1/4" deep.
Verticut area twice AFTER SEEDING.
Start watering right away.
Soak lawn thoroughly the first day.
Water daily for three weeks, keep newly seeded area continually moist.

Protect Crabapples, Pines Next Season
Our plant protection products prevent disease

Certain plants are susceptible to fungal diseases during wet spring months. Many crabapples, pines and hawthorns are commonly affected.

Crabapples and hawthorns are affected by apple scab and cedar-apple rust. A common symptom of these diseases is yellowing leaves with spots. Premature defoliation is a common result. Austrian and Scotch pines are prone to tip blight, a foliar disease that causes needles at the tips of the trees to brown.

This can be frustrating as a homeowner because the trees must be protected on a preventative basis. If you noticed any of the above symptoms, give your RYANPro a call. Through our preventative program, we can prevent these diseases from occuring. Proper timing of our applications can control the fungi and enable you to enjoy healthy trees next season.
Iron Chlorosis Still Evident
It's not too late to relieve this condition

In August's issue of our landscape guide, we brought iron chlorosis to your attention.

Pin oak and river birch are commonly affected by this condition. If you would like to learn more about iron chlorosis, visit our resource library: Iron Chlorosis.

Without proper treatment, trees may lose leaves prematurely, or suffer branch and limb dieback. Death can result from severe cases.

If you have questions, or have a tree that needs treatment, give your RYAN Certified Arborist a call. It isn't too late in the season to relieve this condition. We can provide the tree with the iron it needs by injecting an appropriate mixture of iron and water directly into the trunk of the tree.
Feed Trees To Assist Stress Recovery
Give trees, shrubs nutrients they need to thrive

Many of us were affected by the freezing temperatures earlier this spring. This added to typical summer stress, making this a particularly rough year on trees and shrubs.

Your RYAN Certified Arborist recommends our deep root fertilization this fall to help your trees and shrubs recover from all of this season's stresses. In addition to assisting with stress recovery, root feeding can increase plant health and vigorous root and shoot growth.

You can learn more about root fertilization by visiting our resource library: Root Fertilization. Contact your RYAN Certified Arborist to schedule this application this fall.

Landscape Calendar: September
Seed lawn if needed. Remember to water daily for three weeks after seeding.
Prepare new landscape beds for planting in the spring: Kill the grass and till in compost.
Fertilize your lawn to help it recover from summer stress.
Continue to water and weed landscape beds as needed.

President Bush is Reading My Blogs?

2007-08-25T14:42:00.000-07:00

I wrote previously about the Saturday morning that we stopped by the Corner Cafe for some of their delicious bisquits and gravy. It was so good.... good enough for the President I guess.

There are many things President Bush did while he was in Kansas City yesterday: snarled traffic, addressed the VFW Convention and ate breakfast at the Corner Cafe.

The Corner Cafe is in Riverside, Missouri, a very small suburb of Kansas City. Most people don't even know that it's there and usually only locals go to Riverside. So I'm thinking that someone in the President's immediate group or the President himself has been reading my Active Rain blog.... how else would he know about their yummy bisquits and gravy?

Mr. President enjoyed his breakfast with other well known Kansas City figures such as George Brett, here's what Wikipedia says about George; Carl Peterson with the Kansas City Chiefs; Terry Dunn from Dunn Construction and Ann Dickinson.

The owner of the Corner Cafe, Ed Rule, just agreed to reserve a room for a "business meeting".... little did he know that it was the President.

So I say keep on reading Mr. President, I'll keep you informed on what's going on in Kansas City and the Kansas City Real Estate market.

*Photo Courtesy of bethanyll22 on Flickr

NKC School District Receives Good News

2007-08-25T14:40:00.000-07:00

NKC School Districts Scores Improve

The North Kansas City School District received good news last week that the district's test scores on the National ACT and Missouri Assessment Program (MAP) have gone up.

Their MAP scores outperform the state average in nearly every category measured.

Their ACT scores exceed state and national averages.

This was good news for the district since they were previously placed on the "No Child Left Behind" watch list.

Antioch Shopping Center Gets A Face Lift

2007-08-25T14:02:00.000-07:00

New Site Plan Breaths Life Into My Old Stomping Grounds= Antioch Shopping Ctr.

I've written previously about Antioch Shopping Center and how it was dying a miserable death.

Well now they have a new and smaller budget to cover the cost of re-developing my old stomping grounds.

The new budget has been approved by the Kansas City Tax Increment Finance Commission.

The total cost of the project is now estimate at $72 million vs. $82 million

The size of Antioch Center is going to be reduced by 55,000 square feet. Sears will stay in it's current location and they will tear down the rest of the mall around Sears and rebuild it.

The area will be reborn and things should start thriving again once the project is done.

If you'd like to look at any Kansas City Real Estate by Antioch, please be sure and get ahold of me!

How to Avoid Being A Victim of Identity Theft - BE WISE

2007-08-22T13:02:00.001-07:00

How To Help NOT Being a Victim of Identity Theft

Imagine this: You are sitting at your desk or the kitchen table balancing your check book and preparing to pay your monthly bills. You open your credit card statement and you realized there's an $1100.00 charge you are sure you didn't make...

Unbelievably upset with that sick feeling in your gut you realize you've becom a victim of identity theft.

Immediately you wonder what you did or what you didn't shred to cause this.

Here are a few things you can do that could help prevent the headaches involved with identity theft:

Only give out your social security number when it's absolutely necessary. Some states give you the option of using your social or NOT as your driver's license number. NOT is the correct answer. And never carry your social security card with you. And for Pete's sake do NOT put your social security number on your personalized checks!

Cancel credit cards that you are not using or do not need. When canceling, be sure to request that a notation be made that the "card was cancelled at the cardholders request."

Don't leave outgoing mail in your own mailbox. I'm not talking about the birthday card to Uncle Bubba. I'm talkin about anything that includes your personal or banking information.

It's far too easy for identity thieves to target mailboxes even in nice neighborhoods, or perhaps I should say ESPECIALLY in nice neighborhoods. Instead, drop those off at the box at the post office.

SHRED, SHRED, and SHRED some more!!!
Shred credit card receipts, debit card receipts, insurance bills.... anything that you don't need to keep that even remotely tells and inkling of your personal information. This is a big prevention tool. Thieves will ransack trash just to make a buck.

Use complicated passwords on your computer, email and Internet accounts. The bst combination would be a the use of upper and lower case letters in addition to number. Don't use your house number, your birth-date, your phone number or maiden names that will help in making you a target!

NEVER (did I make that clear?) NEVER give out personal information over the phone, email or on the Internet. I bought my 81 year old father his latest computer, my rulse was simple. If you don't know who the email is from, do not even open it.... and if you do don't EVER give out personal information over the Internet. Most companies you do business with have a policy against asking your personal information over the Internet.

Call your bank or credit card company if you feel a statement or bill should have arrived and it hasn't. A missing bill or statement could indicate that you are being targeted.

Upon receiving your charge card bills or bank statements each month, take a careful look to make sure no unauthorized activities have occurred.

According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) an many as 9 million individuals have their identity stolen each year. It seems the thieves also like to target older individuals due to vulnerability issues.

My mother is a sharp old gal, but received a phone call from someone claiming to be with the FTC stating that someone was trying to get into her account. She freaked and spilled her guts to anything they asked her. She immediately realized after hanging up that her moment of panic could have cleared out her checking. She immediately went to the bank and closed the account.

No one immune to these predators.

Thanks for stopping by!

The Latest Kansas City Mortgage News

2007-08-06T19:35:00.000-07:00

Here's the latest Kansas City Mortgage News from my friend at First Community Bank

Mortgage Division

From: CAROL POPPE 913-652-7302

WEEKLY NEWS REPORT: 8/6/2007

Well as we say in this business, “the wheels are falling off the bus.” Last week was The Good, The Bad and The Ugly. The good news last week came in the form of friendly inflation and employment news which helped rates on CONFORMING home loans improve over the course of the week. I just locked a $390,000 loan (80% LTV) in at 6.375%. Conforming home loans are those under $417,000 and subject to very standard credit, income and asset qualifying, nothing exotic, outside the box, or fancy.

A little bad news came by way of the Bureau of Economic Analysis, revising previous personal savings rate estimates higher, but showing that Americans still save less than 1% of their income.

The Ugly last week – well, was really ugly. The media screamed all week about issues in the mortgage industry particularly impacting what are called Non Conforming home loans; those that are dollar amounts higher than $417K, or with credit, income or assets not falling under traditional guidelines. Many of those rates got excessively ugly, in many cases, overnight. Why? Over the past several yeas, many loans were made to homeowners with somewhat non-traditional or “non-conforming” situations, be it poor credit, inability to document income, or any number of factors that do not fit within the traditional box for home loans. These loans are often called “Sub-Prime” or “Alt-A”, meaning that they were somewhat riskier in nature than A credit, prime or traditional loans. Another type of “non-conforming” home loan is one where the credit and income might be perfectly fine, but the loan amount is higher than $417K, which is the current maximum loan that can be done using pools of money from mortgage giants Fannie Mae (FNMA) and Freddie Mac (FHLMC). These are known as Jumbo Loans – but the end money comes from private institutions, not from the large government sponsored entities of Fannie and Freddie. Most Non-Conforming loan product rates popped significantly higher in the last week even though Jumbos have not suffered from the increased delinquencies like the Sub-prime and Alt-A. This was due to the fact that these pools of mortgages are being purchased by smaller private entities that can’t afford to take on the margin of risk of foreclosures.

From our pool of investors, Wells Fargo jumped the highest in their Jumbo rates. The 100% financing options are deteriorating very quickly and the rules are changing overnight. Several large companies have shut their doors in the last week including American Home Mortgage (huge in stated and no income programs) and Fieldstone (a Sub-Prime company). US Bank has announced today that they are no longer doing “No Income” and “No Ratio” mortgage loans. BE WARY OF OLDER PRE-APPROVALS whether you are putting a contract on a home or are receiving one. Everything is changing so quickly it is hard to keep up with all the changes. Some investors have raised the credit score minimums for 100% financing. We are seeing that those people who have credit scores under 680 and make more than $82,000 are going to be challenged in 100% financing if they purchase over the FHA limit (approximately $210,000). Their options are dwindling. This is the group buying $225,000-$350,000, and even though some of these are buying their second home, they are not netting enough out of the sale of their first home to have much downpayment after they cover their costs.

Remind your buyers that now is NOT the time to be playing the risky game of trying to scour the entire nation to find someone who promises to save you a paltry amount on costs, or deliver a rate that seems too good to be true. A smooth closing and being reassured that it will close on time are just too important, and the times have changed. I am here to help and advise during these volatile times – and would welcome calls from you and your clients.

Lawn and Tree Tid-Bits from My Ryan Lawn and Tree Expert

2007-08-06T07:22:00.000-07:00

Lawn Diseases of Summer
Fungus problems common during summer months

To be sure, watering during the hot summer months is a necessity. Most lawns need 2" of water a week to thrive when it is hot. This should be spread out throughout the week so the turfgrass has the ability to absorb the water, instead of it running off the lawn.

Watering should be avoided during the evening hours, from 4p.m. until 4a.m., to avoid fungal problems. However, the rains that we receive often happen in the evening hours, leaving our turfgrass vulnerable to infection.

Although brown patch is on the decline, pythium blight can become more of a threat because the night temperatures are higher than average during this time. To learn more about brown patch and pythium blight, visit our resource library: Lawn Diseases.

Your RYANPro can apply a preventative fungicide to help protect your lawn against summer fungal problems. The product we use helps prevent both stress and fungus from occurring.

Look out for Yellow Leaves
Iron chlorosis common problem

Some trees, like pin oak and river birch, are commonly affected by a condition called iron chlorosis. Iron chlorosis is caused by the tree's inability to absorb the iron existing in the soil. Look for lighter green or yellow leaves with dark green veins.

If left untreated, trees may lose leaves prematurely or suffer branch and limb dieback. Death can result from severe cases.

If you have questions, or have a tree that needs treatment, give your RYAN Certified Arborist a call. We can provide the tree with the iron it needs by injecting an appropriate mixture of iron and water directly into the trunk of the tree.

Brown Spots in Your Lawn?
Soil Problems may be at fault

New homes are especially vulnerable to hot spots. These occur when there is little good soil and the rocks and cement left over from constructing the new house is left in the lawn and the sod is laid on top. The high heat that we are experiencing will result in the lawn being bleached out.

The best way to fix this problem is to remove the rocks or debris below the turf, followed by reseeding or sodding this fall.

Heavy clay soils, common to older areas of town, can hold water which can also cause brown spots to appear in your lawn.

If you have brown spots in your lawn and are unsure of their cause, contact your RYANPro today.
Sprinkler System Confusing?
Your RYANPro can help.

If you have a sprinkler system, you may be among those who are unsure of how to set them properly. Did you know that a common problem when watering with sprinklers is the length of time?

Drought stress is a common problem during this time of year. People are not watering enough. If you need help setting your system up to meet your landscape's needs, contact your RYANPro. Many of our associates are comfortable helping you set up your system. We also have a referral list of sprinkler companies that we trust. We can refer you to someone who can help set up your system and make sure all areas are getting hit evenly.

Lawn Not Performing Well?
Seeding may be your best option

If your lawn isn't performing to your expectations, consider seeding your lawn to improve the quality of grass. Some cool-season lawns contain inferior grass types that will never perform well. These lawns should be killed-out and reseeded, a process that can begin in August.

If you would like to thicken up your existing stand of turfgrass, consider overseeding with high-quality seed. Your RYANPro can advise you which method is best for you.

If you would like us to assist you with your seeding needs this fall, contact your RYANPro today for a FREE seeding estimate.
Landscape Calendar: August
Water your lawn and landscape plants with 2" of water if rainfall is lacking.
Check shrubs for mites and other insect pests. Call RYAN if control is needed.
Weed flower beds regularly.
Evaluate lawn for seeding needs this fall.

Fun in the Sun!

2007-08-05T06:42:00.000-07:00

The Sun Always Shines on People Who are Cool!
It's going to be another hot day here in Kansas City!

Generally August is really how as you probably know if you've lived in Kansas City for any amount of time.

There are a number of ways to stay cool!

There is Oceans of Fun the largest tropically themed water park in the Midwest, offers 60 acres of splashing excitement and fun for every member of the family and all the sunburn you can handle!!

There's Tiffany Springs Aquatic Park with loads of fun for the whole family with reasonable prices.

There's also Gladstone Aquatic Center that's recently had a major face-lift.

Or you can visit a neighborhood pool and if none of these are an option..... try the old fashion cooling system of letting the kids play in the sprinkler while watering the yard. This way you kill two birds with one stone.

BUT REMEMBER to always use sunscreen...... and don't forget about your pets.

Try to remember not to leave your pets outside in this horrible heat and humidity.... ESPECIALLY if they don't have a dog house or any legitimate protection from the sun. Water in a dogs bowl outside in these temperatures heats up fast..... how would you like to lay in the sun with a fur coat on?

Have fun in the sun, but be safe!

Convert a Can Light into a Pendant Light

2007-08-01T19:17:00.000-07:00

In our new home we had a can light over the sink. I really didn't like it.

During one of our many trips to Lowe's I found a Pendant Light I fell in love with.

If you'd like to read how to change out a can light and install a Pendant light ,

read about it here: http://fountainhillskcmo.blogspot.com/

We're Not in Kansas Anymore!

2007-07-19T07:43:00.000-07:00

We're not in Kansas anymore!

That was quite a little storm we had nearly a week ago.

Now it's rather funny, but at the time it was really scary!

My husband and I were sitting on the deck with the cat. I'd just gotten up to put down the umbrella because we were seeing the storm coming in. I commented as I looked to the left of the above picture...."Look at all that dust!" Then it hit.

It had to have been a micro burst. I threw open the door and yelled at the cat to get inside and then proceeded to hold on to the umbrella for all I was worth. It blew some of my plants off the deck to the ground below and actually was blowing the b.b.q grill, moving it on the deck.

Now I know how Dorothy felt in the Wizard of Oz. We're all safe and there was no major damage. It went away as quick as it came. Ken had just snapped these pictures before the wind began to blow and I stitched them together.

We have a beautiful view from this little piece of Kansas City Real Estate!

The Only Name You Need To Know in Real Estate
Fran WhiteREALTOR®Reece and Nichols816-682-3897

franwhite@kc.rr.com http://www.kansascity-realestate.net/

808 E 14th St., Kearney, MO For Sale $154,900

2007-07-18T14:07:00.000-07:00

FOR SALE:
3 bedroom, 2.1 bath RANCH in beautiful Kearney
Take a peak at the tour....

Missouri's SALES TAX HOLIDAY!

2007-07-16T15:49:00.000-07:00

Monday, July 16, 2007

Missouri's Sales Tax Holiday for '07

Just a reminder for all you parents in with children going to school.
There is another sales tax holiday coming on August 3rd thru 5th.

The sales tax holiday does not have mandatory participation, local jurisdictions and declare not to participate.

Be sure to ask when going into a store if they are participants of the sales tax holiday.

The Missouri Department of Revenue's site has a list of counties that have opted out. It can be found here: http://dor.mo.gov/tax/business/sales/taxholiday/counties.htm
I do not see Clay County or Platte County listed!

Here are the limitations for the exemptions:

Clothes - any article having a tax value of $100 or less
Computer Software/Programs - tax value of $350.00 or less
Personal Computers - cannot exceed $3,500
School Supplies - cannot exceed $50 per purchase
Computer Peripherals - (such as printers, etc.) cannot exceed $3,500
Additional information on qualifying items found on the Missouri Department of Revenue site: http://dor.mo.gov/tax/business/sales/taxholiday/consumers.htm

Happy Shopping! And if I can help you with any of your Kansas City Real Estate needs just email me franwhite@kc.rr.com or give me a call 816-682-3897

The Roasterie...Yummy Coffee...New Blends

2007-05-24T05:35:00.000-07:00

My favorite coffee to enjoy while working on Kansas City Real Estate! The Roasterie has new blends!!

Now is the time of the year for friends and family, barbecue, little league baseball and sitting by the pool and reading a book. Enhance the experience of summer with hot or cold coffees and teas prepared with passion by your friends at The Roasterie.

Only the Best Get Canned:Our Limited Reserve Coffee Cans symbolize the uniqueness of the coffees within. Many of these coffees have won awards and have been reviewed as some of the highest rated coffees in the world. We are currently offering all Limited Reserve Coffee Cans at a discounted price of 20%.
Santa Isabel of Nicaragua - Cup of Excellence®http://www.theroasterie.com/shopping/detail.asp?DOM=1&productID=722

Guatemalan Huehuetenango:http://www.theroasterie.com/shopping/detail.asp?DOM=1&productID=687

San Cristobal of Guatemalan - Cup of Excellence®http://www.theroasterie.com/shopping/detail.asp?DOM=1&productID=723

Santa Sofia of El Salvador - Cup of Excellence®http://www.theroasterie.com/shopping/detail.asp?DOM=1&productID=721

Kimel Estate of Papua New Guinea:http://www.theroasterie.com/shopping/detail.asp?DOM=1&productID=666

Pitalito Estates of Colombia:http://www.theroasterie.com/shopping/detail.asp?DOM=1&productID=665

Try one of the above tasty beverages in our new diner mug.http://www.theroasterie.com/shopping/detail.asp?DOM=1&productID=728

It's “Never Summer” with Iced Coffee:When that muggy heat starts rolling into your neighborhood, it’s time to get equipped. The Never Summer Blend is a coffee dedicated to retaining a complex flavor while having the ability to quench the summer thirst.

Brewed Iced Coffee Recipe:Grind 2 oz. (4 tablespoon) of coffee to every 6 oz. of water. Refrigerate in a glass or plastic container. Pour coffee over a cup of ice and serve. Never Summer! Revolt against the summer heat.

Employee Pick of the Month:Clint is our Event Coordinator here at The Roasterie and has recently been raving about Gotham Espresso. “It’s a sweet, smooth espresso (good drip too) and has an insane crema!” Try this wonderful and underrated espresso and let us know what you think!http://www.theroasterie.com/shopping/detail.asp?DOM=1&productID=520

In The News:The Roasterie’s Santa Sofia of El Salvador was recently featured in Barista Magazine as one of this summer's spotlighted coffee products. Also Imbibe's May/June issue has an article on Kansas City’s hard working coffee community and features The Roasterie while mentioning some of the restaurants that serve our coffee. You can check out either of these magazines by visiting your local magazine retailer.
Imbibehttp://imbibemagazine.com/
Barista Magazinehttp://www.baristamagazine.com/

The Roasterie1204 W 27th St. • Kansas City, MO • 64108816.931.4000 • www.theroasterie.com

Kansas City Missouri Heating and Cooling Experts

2007-05-13T03:59:00.000-07:00

I learned a couple of things yesterday that will help me in my Kansas City Real Estate adventures!

Of course I try to learn something everyday, but yesterday was something that will definitely help my clients!

Ever since we moved in our home five years ago we've maintained a maintenance contract with A.M. Heating and Cooling. (it was a stroke of luck that we found such a wonderful provider)

Some may think a maintenance contract with a Kansas City Heating and Cooling company is foolish, we find it very wise.

Regular maintenance of your a/c and heating units are essential in keeping a safe and healthy environment for your family. And you personally should change your furnace filters once a month.

Mark Avinew of A.M. Heating and Cooling is amazing when it comes to knowledge, customer service and maintaining your heating and cooling units.

We were visiting with him yesterday about heat pumps... and here's what I learned:

Kansas City Power and Light (KCP&L) gives customers a discount if they
have a heat pump...

In the Kansas City area, if the temperature
gets below 40 degrees, A.M. Heating and Cooling suggests switching over to your gas furnace which will save on the life of the compressor in your heat pump.

It's amazing the things we learn!

After talking with Mark yesterday, I'm going to start suggesting, in addition to a general home inspection, that my buyers get a mechanical inspection on the heating and cooling units of the home they are interested in. It makes sense.... who knows heating and cooling in Kansas City better than the specialists like A.M. Heating and Cooling?

For your Kansas City Real Estate needs, call me 816-682-3897
But for your Kansas City Heating and Cooling needs, Call A and M. Heating & Cooling....913-268-6203:: Tell them Fran White sent you!

BBQ Capital of the World Event Supports Midwest Foster Care and Adoption Association (MFCAA)

2007-05-06T14:56:00.000-07:00

From the B.B.Q. Capital of the world....... one of the things that Kansas City, Missouri is FAMOUS for.... B.B.Q.
McGonigle's Market was the location today for a great benefit for Midwest Foster Care and Adoption Association (MFCAA)
McGonigle's Market donated $5.00 from every slab of ribs purchased to MFCAA and of course we were there!
You cannot find a better place for fresh, tender meats to cook at home or purchase their smoked meats and fish if you prefer not to do it yourself.
Smoke filled the air and the aroma of the neighborhood was mouth-watering! McGonigle's predicted that 3500 slab of ribs would be sold.

REALTOR® Says "No Thank You" to Listing Home Above Value

2007-04-23T05:49:00.000-07:00

Don't be surprised if you want a REALTOR® to list your home and they say "No Thank You." It could happen to you if you fall into the following senerio.

Last week I went on a listing appointment. Before I go on an appointment I spend a lot of time getting my presentation packet all in order and I also spend a lot of time studying the comps (comparable: what other homes in the neighborhood have sold for) for the area.

I entered this home as I always do with an open mind and the ability to visually remove the contents.

This home was totally outdated (carpet, bathrooms, kitchen), it had rotten windows, it was cluttered and messy and bottom line the sellers wanted me to list it for 20K more than the highest comp.

The sellers were wanting to build a new home and the husband wasn't up for making any repairs. They had no cash for a downpayment and wanted to get their down payment out of this poor house that they already had mortgaged to the hilt.

In this tight market, your realtor has to price your home accordingly and still expect (in the mid-west) for someone to come in and offer you 5K immediately off the asking price.

Sellers need to be able to do some work or be willing to have it done, or not expect top dollar for your home.

A simple comparison would be (although I'm not fond of car salesmen) trading in a vehicle for a new shiny one.

Would you take a filthy car and expect top dollar as a trade-in if you had Micky D's fries in the cracks of the seats and popcorm remnants on the floor from the drive-in the night before?

Another thought: When you go to an outlet that carries scratch and dent products - you pay scratch and dent prices.

Buyers thing the same way about houses. Sure every home has some issues - but if it presents itself product, expect scratch and dent prices.

Even the best REALTOR® in town cannot perform miracles (although I like to think I can)... at some point they have to step back and say "no thank you." And that's a really difficult thing to do.

If you need assistance in the Kansas City Real Estate market...... give me a call 816-682-3897

Help Desperately Needed: Bone Marrow Donor

2007-04-13T08:41:00.000-07:00

The following post was posted on Active Rain, a real estate network that I participate in.
I have the permission of the poster: Julie Ferenzi to re-post it in it's entirety.
If there is ANYTHING you can do to help.......please don't hesitate

This has nothing to with Real Estate but everything to do with humanity...
I wondered and thought for such a long time before I decided to use the Active Rain forum in this way. After speaking to the grandmother of this little boy this afternoon I really don't feel like it's even a choice. Trevor Kott needs a bone marrow donor now. I can't worry myself with whether or not someone will be upset that I posted this here on Active Rain. I will take any and all critism for posting about Trevor here, but the truth is that now with over 25,000 members I know that 25,000 people have the potential to hear and act on behalf of this little miracle.
I am writing today about something very important. This isn't a forward, and this isn't about an imaginary child floating around on the internet.
This is about a real baby boy named Trevor Kott. From the second I first laid eyes on him he stole my heart.
I first heard about Trevor's story a few weeks ago from someone on Cafe Mom, which is an on-line forum that I belong to. Rather than me go on an on about what led me to this point I will share a open letter from his parents that I took from his website: Help Save Trevor Kott
The rest of this is a message was included in a personal e-mail to my family and friends. I decided I needed to harness the power of Active Rain to help this family and share it with you.
"SAVE THE LIFE OF A CHILD!
A hundred years from nowIt will not matterWhat your bank account was,The sort of house you lived inOr the kind of car you droveBut the world may be differentBecause you were importantIn the life of a child
Trevor is our son -- a beautiful baby boy who fills us with joy -- but he is fighting to survive. He was diagnosed with AML a rare form of leukemia at birth and must have a bone marrow transplant -- but the doctors informed us on March 15, 2007 that they were not able to find a match for Trevor in the International Bone Marrow Registry. Trevor 's need is urgent. His life depends on finding a match immediately. Since that news, the doctors have given Trevor about 6-8 weeks unless a match can be found. This lack of matching donors is a crisis that affects thousands of families every year. It only takes one match to save a life. It could be you, and it is so easy to find out if you do match. It does not require a blood or marrow sample, simply a swab of some cells from your cheek, and the compassion to help save a life. You don't even need to be a blood type match for Trevor, just a tissue match. Trevor's life will depend on your prompt action. Please take action by booking an appointment today. Time is of the essence.
Please forward this information to everyone you know and encourage each of them to do the same. We are attempting to reach millions with a national grass roots campaign and need your help. We are praying for a miracle for Trevor.
Thank you and God bless you. Bob and Angela KottSacramento CA"
I can't get this little boy out of my mind or the agony his parents and family must be going through. I need to act.
Some of you may, or may not know, the effects that cancer has played in both mine and Tony's lives. We have been touched by this disease from the farthest corners of our social circle, to the inner sanctum of our daily lives.
I can't explain why I feel so called into action. I don't know why I feel it is my duty to help this family find this very special person who will save their little boy... but I do know one thing. Trevor hasn't given up and neither am I!
I should also mention that Trevor's mom Angela, just underwent surgery to remove skin cancer from her arm that she developed during her pregnancy with Trevor. This is one strong family!
I have been in touch with his mother, Angela, and I am going to do all that I can to help her find the miracle Trevor so desperately needs.
That is why I need your help. I will be hosting a Bone Marrow Registry Drive next month in Trevor Kott's honor.
I need you to be there and say that you will become a member of the National Bone Marrow Registry. You will not only be giving hope to Trevor's family... but to the many families who are waiting for their angel to find them. Registrants must be between the ages of 18 and 60 and never have had cancer or blood related illnesses.
Normally there is a $52 fee to become a member of the registry. This fee covers the cost of the Tissue type testing that matches donors with recipients. Because I am organizing this drive during the "Thank Mom" campaign, this fee is being waived by the National Bone Marrow Registry!
It is important to understand though that even though you may not be a match for little Trevor, you could someday be a match for someone else!!! Can you think of anything more precious than the gift of life?!
Testing is painless. I did it last week at a drive at Midwestern University in Downers Grove. 4 quick and simple swabs from the inside of your mouth, and that is it!
My drive will be hosted sometime between May 7th and May 21st. I am working with a coordinator at Life Source and at the National Bone Marrow Registry to plan this event. Most likely this will take place sometime between May 12-14th at the Babies R Us store in Shorewood, IL.
You can host your own drive by contacting the National Bone Marrow Registry!
Please tell everyone you know about little Trevor. When I have all of the details I forward you all of the details of this drive.
Thanks for listening!
Click here to watch this beautiful video of little Trevor....

~Julie Ferenzi
UPDATE: Trevor's grandmother, Linda Kott, called me today to ask if there was a way that I could help gain national publicity for his story.
I have contacted all 4 major news networks in my area as well as Oprah, The Today Show, Good Morning America, 20/20 and Primetime. We are all only 6 degrees from being connected from to every single person in this world!
Do you know someone who could help us? A celebrity? A contact at your local news station?
Active Rain is such a great community of people always willing to help. I thought this was a great place to start. If you have any support or contact information to offer, please contact me at 630-673-6233. THANK YOU!

Consumer information on Appraisals - Online Radio Show Interview

2007-04-12T05:01:00.000-07:00

Kansas City Real Estate goes LIVE on BlogTalkRadio w/ Nick the Appraiser
Great information for consumers...... regarding appraisals and what to expect!
Click on the link.
Here is its.. Fran interviewing Nick

Fran White's Blog.. Kansas City Real Estate
Office Phone: (913) 262-7755 Cell Phone: (816) 682.3897
Nick the Appraiser's Blog.. West Palm Beach AppraiserCell Phone: (561) 337.5040

Dunn Brothers Coffee Discovery!

2007-03-30T15:33:00.000-07:00

I'll take a Mocha Latte With Goats Milk @ 140 degrees with a Splash of Coconut
Kansas City (Red Bridge)
535 E. 111th St
Kansas City, MO 64131
Phone: 816-941-8585
email: dunnbros123@dunnbros.com
Location Map
If there's one thing my wonderful husband likes, it's a good cup of coffee! In our travels today we meandered into this local coffee shop that is in our neighborhood in Redbridge. We've had our eye on it and have been meaning to stop but just hadn't done it yet.... our loss because it was the coolest place and had GREAT COFFEE.

Yes, Kansas City is dotted with your typical chain coffee shops but this Dunn Brothers Coffee we hadn't heard of and we're always ready for something new and exciting. It's tucked away in the Redbridge strip mall.

When we walked in I was pleasantly with the ambiance! It was hip and the employees were extremely friendly!

We ordered and looked around some more.... there's free Wi-Fi, comfy chairs, nice looking tables and chairs, a conference table and even a couple computers you could use by the hour. It was extremely inviting!

Now let me tell you, I didn't really ask for a Mocha Latte with goats milk @ 140 degrees with a splash of coconut but I did get a killer Mocha Latte De-Caf!! It was good.

Just a word to the wise, even if you haven't heard the name Dunn Brothers Coffee, don't hesitate to stop because you are certain to enjoy the aromas, the taste and surroundings!

Kansas City Easter Activities

2007-03-30T05:29:00.000-07:00

The Northland's Zona Rosa is taking on the Plaza Easter traditions! Kansas City's longest standing, traditional Easter parade has moved to Zona Rosa! http://www.zonarosa.com/

Put on your new Easter outfit and those snazzy shoes and join the fun and activities in the 2nd Annual Easter Parade, April 7th at 11 A.M.

Powell Gardens is sponsoring Breakfast with the Easter BUnny on 3/31 and 4/7 in addition to an Easter Egg Hunt at 11 a.m. on April 7th for children 10 and under. Visit their website for details. http://www.powellgardens.org/

Ward Parkway gets some BLING!

2007-03-30T05:21:00.000-07:00

If you are one of those individuals that travels Ward Parkway on your way to and from work, you've probably noticed the new addition of trees.
224 trees have been planted in the median of Ward Parkway and you can thank the Ford Family Foundation of Russell Stovers Candies for their generosity of beautification.
The Swamp Oaks will turn a nice yellow in the fall and the Urbanite Ash will turn a red brick color to a orange red which will certainly brighten up your drive.

In the summer you can enjoy their lush green!

Thank you Ford Family Foundation for adding to the beauty of our community!

Here's a link to a story about Ward Parkway.

Kansas City SNAPSHOT

2007-03-30T05:12:00.000-07:00

I came across a great project that is just it it's beginnings here in Kansas City!
In honor of the 150th anniversary of the founding of the American Institute of Architects they have started a program called Blueprint of America. It's a nationwide, grassroots community service program that will empower each cities residents to participate in developing new visions for their community's design priorities.
So where does Kansas City come in? Well if you live here you know that our town is made up of sprawling urban and suburban as well as exurban and transurban areas, no different than many other cities. The Kansas City portion of this nationwide program is being dubbed "The Kansas City SNAPSHOT" and will engage the diverse people and places that inhabit the Johnson Drive / Van Brunt corridor.
I don't want to take away any excitement from their project, so please take a moment to visit the website they are developing for this project Kansas City SNAPSHOT at www.kcsnapshot.org.
It's interesting and perhaps it will help all of us in Kansas City to see each other again.

Guess Who's L@@King at Your Credit

2007-02-27T13:07:00.000-08:00

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Insurance Companies Want to SEE Your Credit Score
I previously wrote about how you should get your homeowners insurance during the inspection period when you are buying a home.
Now I SEE more than ever the importance of that when buying a home in Kansas City, Missouri.
At sales meeting this morning we were discussing how more and more insurance companies are using individuals credit scores to determine their insurability and their premium rates.
We all know it's important to pay our bills on time to keep our credit as healthy as possible, and now it's even more vital!
Insurance companies are lining up to look at your credit score to decide if they want to insure you and if they do what the likelihood is that you will have a claim.
Do I feel this is right? Well, not really, but they are doing it.
Again let me stress the importance of getting your insurance during the initial inspection period after you sign a contract. If a problem arises around homeowners insurance you will know at the front end of the deal rather than wait till it's time to close and it becomes a major problem.
I believe that everyone deserves to own their own home and with all the mortgage possibilities out there it is possible. A word to the wise: protect your credit because it may affect the premium you will pay for homeowners insurance.

It's SPRING in Real Estate in Kansas City

2007-02-27T10:12:00.000-08:00

It's SPRING in Real Estate: Getting Ready to Sell your Home in Kansas City, MO

Have you been enjoying this taste of warmer temperatures? Nice huh. Yes we've been busy getting our own house ready to sell. At first you don't think there's that much to do, but once I got in to it, one thing just led to another.

We've painted and made pretty our home sweet home and within a few days she'll be ready for market.

Here's some ideas of things you can do to get your home ready for spring, and believe me it's time. Each day I look at the new houses that come on to MLS and every day it seems more and more from absolutely nothing in November and December.

Wash your windows

Make sure all your mirrors are clean inside your home

Take down family pictures not to distract buyers

Spiff up your front door

Bag up any left over leaves from last fall

Shampoo your carpets

Paint the trim

Brighten a room with a coat of paint and higher watt lightbulbs

DeJUNK... all that stuff you have sitting around that you don't use, get rid of it.

Seem overwhelming? At first, but you feel great when it's done and it will help your home sell more quickly!

If there's anything I can do to help you with selling your home or buying another, give me a yell 816-682-3897

If you have a question about whether you should or shouldn't do something particular to get your house ready, leave a message here...

Kansas City Area Economic News from Carol Poppe

2007-02-13T10:17:00.000-08:00

Economic News From Carol Poppe, VP of Residential Lending
Here's the most recent economic news from Carol Poppe.
First Community Bank Mortgage Division Carol L. Poppe, Vice President
(913) 652-7302 ph (913) 707-1153 cell
ECONOMIC NEWS FOR THE WEEK: 02/13/2007
The question is simple enough: What’s going on with mortgage rates? What makes them rise or fall? Is it the Fed? The economy? Inflation? The banks?
The answer is that rates are moved by a number of related factors, and believe it or not, you—Joe/Jane Consumer-- are one of those factors.
Most mortgage money comes from “capital markets” which is where investors interested in purchasing certain kinds of investments come to buy these items. In order to attract investors, sellers of bonds must compete with one another to get investor’s money. They do this by offering a variety of products with differing structures of risk and return over given periods of time.
Who are these investors and why are they so fickle? Mostly, they are people like you, and you want two opposing things, low payment on your mortgage and high return on your investments. You will buy only so many low yielding bonds before you take your money elsewhere for better returns. Investors have 100’s of places to put their money in a crowded marketplace. If the demand falls enough, a change in strategy to attract investors is to raise the rates. Mortgages are priced for sale to attract investors who seek safe, fixed income investments, such as retirement accounts.
Rates have to be high enough to attract investors and low enough to attract mortgage borrowers.
The big unknown in the bond market is “volume.” No one really knows how many mortgages will be originated and then made available for sale (as bonds) in a given period of time. Recently, a quick drop in rates produced a large buildup of loans to be sold to investors as homeowners rushed to refinance. This made way too much bond supply available in too short a time and investors could not absorb it all at once. Too much supply, not enough demand; bond prices had to go down and yields went up. When the yields went up, so did the mortgage rates.
Inflation impacts Treasury, mortgage, and other fixed-income investments. Rising inflation reduces the actual return on a fixed interest rate investment, so with 2% inflation, that 6% mortgage note returns only 4% “real interest.” If inflation is expected to decline for the foreseeable future, you can bet that mortgage rates have some room to fall. Conversely, an outlook which suggests higher inflation ahead will see mortgage rates rise, sometimes very quickly. This is another reason that the Feds watch inflation very carefully. The higher rates can cool demand (slowing economic growth) helping to keep inflationary pressures from forming.
However, contrary to belief, the Fed (The Federal Reserve) doesn’t control mortgage rates. The Federal Funds rate is the overnight interest rate which banks charge each other when a bank needs to borrow money to meet end-of-day reserve requirements. i.e. A bank must have so much cash on hand when the books close at the end of the day and those funds can be borrowed from another bank at this interest rate. It is literally an Overnight Loan. The Fed Funds rate is the shortest of short-term rates and a 30 year fixed-rate is at the opposite end of the scale.
In some ways, expectations of what the Fed might do can be more important than what the Fed actually does.
GOING ONCE…GOING TWICE…SOLD, FOR $36 BILLION! That’s right, if you were in the market to buy new Bonds last week, it was your week! The US Treasury offered $36 Billion in new bonds. The auction was well received during the week. Lackluster buying would have meant that buyers feel that rates will be higher down the road. It was helped along by foreign buyers who love our US Bonds as a safe investment with a high rate of return. Their investment has helped keep bond prices high, and therefore, home loan interest rates low. Bond prices and mortgage rates improved throughout the week, but then lost some ground on Friday, to end the week right back where they started. Some Traders saw prices as topping out and decided to sell and take their profits.
Remember, when the price of Bonds move lower, home loan rates move higher-----------------------------------------------
Thanks Carol for your wisdom and kindness to share this information with my readers!
If you have questions about home loans, please feel free to give Carol a call.
Fran White, Realtor 2007

First Important Step - GET PREAPPROVED

2007-02-12T04:27:00.000-08:00

First Important Step... Get Pre-Approved

The first step in beginning to shop for a home is to get pre-approved. If you don't know who to go to, ask your REALTOR. More than likely they have three or more mortgage people that they work with on a consistent basis and know which ones have a good track record for excellent customer service to the buyers.
I had a gentleman call me this week. He'd driven by a house and wanted to see it. "Great, I'd love to show it to you! Are you pre-approved?" He said no he wasn't, so I suggested someone for him to call. It doesn't cost anything to get pre-approved, it's FREE. It's also free to get second opinion from another mortgage lender too!
Well, unfortunately, when the gentleman went to get pre-approved there were some dings on his credit that need to be taken care of and he would not have been able to qualify for the mortgage on the house he wanted to see.
The other important part about getting pre-approved is during that process the lender will tell you what you qualify for. They determine this by taking into consideration your credit score, your income and your debt. So why set yourself up for disappointment looking at something that is out of your comfort zone? So after you are pre-approved you and your REALTOR will both know how much you qualify for... which will tell you what price range you should be looking in.
Plus after you are pre-approved, the mortgage person will give you a pre-approval letter that should be included with any offers you make to show your serious and you are ready to make a purchase!
If I can answer any questions for you regarding Kansas City Real Estate, please feel free to e-mail me at franwhite@kc.rr.com or give me a call at 816-682-3897,
Fran White, REALTOR Reece and Nichols Residential

Kansas City Area Economic News from Carol Poppe

2007-01-29T18:40:00.000-08:00

Here's Economic News for this week from Carol Poppe, VP of Residential Lending

REAL ESTATE: As is no surprise, new home sales plunged 17.3% in 2006, the biggest drop in 16 years. The median home price for December was still below the year-earlier price reading, another sign of weakness in the market. However, since the median home price hasn’t changed from a year earlier, some prognosticators feel we have hit the bottom. This is why conforming limits are unchanged from the year before, $417,000. Major homebuilders around the country, like Pulte Homes, saw sharp declines in earnings in 2006 with the slump. What this means to you is it is still a buyer’s market.
BONDS: The Bond prices slipped after this report hinted at stabilization in the housing market. Also the stock market slumped with fears that this information would revive worries about higher interest rates from the Feds. Strong economic growth is good for corporate profits but if growth is too strong, it will cause the Feds to start raising rates again to curb inflation. The Federal Reserve has a policy meeting this week (Tues. & Weds) which at this point, is expected to keep the interest rate unchanged. Since the middle of last year, the focus of the markets has been whether the Fed will be tempted to lower rates to stimulate the economy and avoid a recession. This would have been good for the real estate market. However, now, it is thought that we will see a continued pause, encouraged by solid job growth reports, higher payrolls, and tumbling oil prices. Durable good orders climbed in December, higher than expected. These are items that are meant to last more than 3 years. Excluding defense and aircraft orders, non-defense capital goods orders jumped, following declines in the previous two months. Motor vehicle and parts orders posted the strongest gains/month since August, 2004.
RESULTS: What all this means is that interest rates continue to edge slowly up, rather than the anticipated decline. Since it appears we are not going to see a decline in the second mortgage rates for awhile, be sure your buyers who are needing 95-100% financing look at all options, not just 80/20’s. There are some great new options out there for 100% financing which will give a lower payment than 80/20’s.

Carol Poppe,
VP/Mortgage Lending
10740 Nall Avenue • Suite 210 • Overland Park, KS 66211 Office: 913.652.7302 • Fax: 913.649.3222
Cell: 913.707.1153www.fcbankonline.com

Does Sharing a Drive-way Have to be Miserable?

2007-01-27T14:54:00.000-08:00

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Are the Neighbors Keeping Your Listing from Selling?
Are the neighbors keeping your listing from selling?
We were showing some clients today and one of the homes had a shared drive-way and shared garage.

The home was situated on a busy two lane street with no off street parking.
We arrived first because I wanted to have the lights on and the place looking inviting before my clients arrived.

We pulled up in the drive-way (which was icy) to the left of the proper side of the garage. We no sooner get out of the car and go inside than the neighbor comes out, opens the garage door and pulls her car out half way.

My clients arrived...they pull in front of the appropriate garage door...the neighbor comes out and yells something at them. I couldn't exactly hear it, but from the look on the prospective buyers face it wasn't nice. We moved our car so they could move their car closer.

Now why in the world would you be nasty in a situation like that? Would
you rather have a vacant house next to you?

I know it takes all kinds when it comes to real estate and Real Estate in Kansas City Missouri isn't any different.

While filling out the feedback online for the seller's agent I explained what happened and ended it with "good luck selling it with the attitude of that neighbor."

It doesn't take that much to be nice.... does it ?

Fran White, REALTOR® 2007 816-682-3897 for your Kansas City real estate needs

Hope on Jackson County's Horizon

2007-01-11T15:59:00.000-08:00

There's Hope on the Horizon for Property Taxes in Jackson County, Missouri
How are property taxes figured in your County? There's hope on Jackson County's horizon!
For about the last two years Jackson County, Missouri taxes have been climbing at an enormous rate due to a process called the C.O.V. (Certificate of Value).
When the Jackson County Executive seat was up for re-election, I wanted to make sure that we got someone in there that would do something about the Real Estate tax situation.
I took a look at all the candidates and Mike Sanders was concerned that high property taxes were making it difficult for middle class families to live in Jackson County. He confirmed when county had adopted a certificate of value standard to assess the market value of property, that approach made property taxes jump. He wants to reevaluate the COV approach. (My comment: It makes the property/real estate tax about 1 and 1/2% of the sales price)He stated: "I think we have to go back and evaluate what happened to cause this dramatic rise in property taxes," said Sanders. "If COVs was the way to go, was that process fair? Did we do this correctly?"
Yes, I voted for Mike Sanders.... after looking at all the candidates I felt he had integrity.
Today in the Kansas City Business Journal I read that Mike Sanders laid out a six-point plan. He said he wanted to study why county property taxes have climbed so sharply in the last two years. Of course this makes Kansas City less competitive in recruiting and retaining businesses, but Sanders also cares that people will be able to afford homes.
I'm glad I voted for Mike, perhaps he and I together can do our part to get more folks a home in Kansas City, MO .
Fran White, REALTOR 2007

To Grieve or Not to Grieve

2007-01-10T06:15:00.000-08:00

To Grieve or Not to Grieve... That is the question
My broker is the chairperson on the grievance committee for the area Realtors association. He was discussing yesterday in sales meeting how the majority of the complaints brought to the committee involved procuring cause.
It really made me think of a transaction I had a year ago and again made me wonder why we do what we do?
I had a home listed and a realtor with another company called me for information on the home for a showing. She wasn't familiar with the area, so I proceeded to tell her all about it.
It was clear across town and my seller offered to turn on the lights in the house since she was in the immediate area (it was an evening showing)...
My seller went down to turn on the lights. Her grandchildren were with her and enjoyed running through the house and helping her flip on on the switches. After turning on the lights they went over to visit with her soon-to-be former neighbor across the street.
As sellers will do they were peeking out the window and saw three people arrive, a couple and then a gentleman.
About 30 minutes into when the showing was suppose to take place I receive an email from the agent showing. It said the buyers really liked it and she may have an offer for me tonight. I'm thinking, WOW, these people really move, they couldn't have been in the house more than 10 minutes MAX. So I called my seller at home to tell her we may have an offer this evening. Her husband said she wasn't at home that she was still at the house they had for sale. I asked if he would please have her call me when she arrived.
An hour and a half later she called and the conversation went something like this:
"I just got back, when I went back to the house to turn off the lights the people were still there with their agent, HE was really nice. We talked about the house and I answered a few questions they had. The couple seem to like it."
I said, "who is HE?" She replied with, "The gentleman that was with them, their agent."
I'm thinking what the heck is going on ? I told my client that a woman was suppose to show it and that I needed to call the agent who had the appointment and find out what is going on.
I called and she answered. I said, "There's something really weird going on here.... my seller went to turn off the lights and there was a gentleman showing the house to a couple, what happened?" She said, "Oh not to worry, my car started over heating on the way out there and I asked them to reschedule for another night but they were so excited..... and besides, the front door was unlocked."
While those grand kids were having fun running through the house flipping on the light switches, my seller went out one door, the grand kids went out another leaving the front door unlocked. Honest mistake.
So the couples went in and showed themselves the house, my seller arrived and told them all about the house and showing them things in the house and the buyers agent wasn't even there. The gentleman she thought was the buyers agent was the parent to one of them.
Call me weird, but if I walked up to an unlocked home, would I enter. NO WAY.
Could the buyers agent have called me and said I can't make it, would you mind showing them? WAY!
They made an offer, we negotiated a contract, it closed, the buyers agent got paid, she never saw the house.
Maybe I'm being petty...but this isn't the way I sell real estate in Kansas City, Missouri. I prefer to call myself ethical, professional and mindful of the way I do business.
Was it worth taking her to the grievance committee? Well I didn't think so... but let's check ourselves folks and the way we do business.
We should be working together to make the process smoother and helping one another.
What's your opinion of this situation?

Fran White, REALTOR, 2006
http://www.kansascity-realestate.net/

Real Estate Blog - Sex Offender NABBED by concerned mother

2007-01-02T18:34:00.000-08:00

Sex Offender NABBED by concerned mother
A few days ago Broker Bryant wrote
Prepare to be shocked. Read this!!!!! regarding the use of the website www.FamilyWatchdog.us
I have subscribed to this site and get occasional emails from them with success stories.
If my Kansas City Real Estate clients raise this as a concern I recommend that they do a search on the site themselves, it's extremely user friendly and informational!
Below is the contents of an email I received from them today.

FamilyWatchdog.US used to bust registered offender who attempted to lure a child from his mother

FamilyWatchdog.US was recently used by a Florida mother to identify, locate and arrest a registered offender who attempted to lure her four-year-old son from a Florida park.

The mother, who remains unidentified citing privacy and security issues, told her son not to talk to strangers when an unknown man approached him while playing in Navarre Park in Santa Rosa County, Florida. The young boy later told his mother the man asked if he wanted to go home and play ball at the man's house. Growing concerned, she searched the area around Navarre Park for registered offenders using FamilyWatchdog.us, the nation's leading offender registry resource. After viewing just one other registered offender, the woman found a picture of the man who just hours earlier approached her son in Navarre Park. According to the Santa

Fran White, REALTOR 2006 Kansas City Real Estate
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If They Can Smell It, We Can't Sell It

2006-12-31T08:18:00.000-08:00

This is serious! If a buyer walks in a home that smells they can immediately be turned off and leave. I've seen this happen even if the home fits their needs perfectly!
With the movement towards a "smoke-free America" more and more buyers are turned off by the left over smell of stale cigarettes.
If you are selling and you'd walk a mile for a camel - think about your potential buyers and bring in a company to professionally refresh your home.
When it comes to pets... if Rover has been all over, you might consider bringing someone in to deodorize. Believe it or not, some folks just don't like pets.
If you have pet stains, hire a professional to removed the stains. If you know there are stains on the hardwoods under the carpet, I suggest declaring that on the seller's disclosure to save you a possible headache later.
There are also those people who like pets but are allergic to them. Another suggestion would be to have Rover or Fluffy out of your home during showings. Your furry friends could be scaring off buyers who sneeze their way right out the front door.
Just remember when listing your home for sale in Kansas City, MO - if they can smell it, it will be hard to sell it.
Fran White, REALTOR 2006

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Stay in a High Rise Condo and Feast on Prime Rib

2006-12-27T21:05:00.000-08:00

Stay in a High Rise Condo and Feast on Prime Rib
Next year the Kansas City Zoo will have two visitors from the San Diego zoo.
The visiting koalas will spend their summer vacation in the new Discovery Barn that was expanded this past year.
Their vacation will cost the zoo about $35,000 and eucalyptus flown in twice per week to quench their palette. (Sounds to me like they will be enjoying a high rise condo and feasting on prime rib.)
Those fuzzy visiting dignitaries go on exhibit on March 31 and will be quite a pleasing temporary addition to the zoo.
The Kansas City Zoo celebrates it's 100th anniversary in 2009 and has seen massive improvements over the past few years.
Too bad we couldn't find them a permanent home for sale in Kansas City, Missouri.

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Posted by: Fran White, REALTOR, 2006

Going to Kansas City

2006-12-25T05:57:00.000-08:00

Surely you've heard that infamous song that's been sung by a variety of artists Goin to Kansas City, Kansas City here I come. They've got some crazy little women there, and I'm gonna get me one.

Well I'm one of those Crazy Little Women who's crazy about Real Estate and Kansas City.

My hometown, Kansas City, has been called many things,The Heart of America because of our location but my favorite would be The City of Fountains.

Kansas City is called the City of Fountains because it is the home of more fountains than any city in the world, except Rome. The majority of our famous fountains are found on the Country Club Plaza.Â The streets of that area decorated with artwork from around the world and the fountains there are the city's most popular and decorative. For more information on the fountains visit this link http://www.experiencekc.com/fountains.html or this link http://www.360kc.com/Attractions/KansasCityFountains.html

Kansas City also has many jazz and blues clubs plus several wonderful concert venues.

According to Dean Hampton of http://www.webjazz.net/ "You could stay busy listening to live jazz most every night of the year and it would all be world class.

KC has more jazz & blues support organizations than any other city in the world. Start with the 400+ member KC Jazz Ambassadors, then the KC Blues Society, the CODA Jazz Fund, the UMKC Friends of Jazz, and the Elder Statesmen of Kansas City jazz.

KC is where jazz and blues met. That resulted in the development of a sound is jazz unique to jazz and that sound is recognized as a major milestone in the development of jazz."

Kansas City is just a JAZZY place to live and has a great selection when it comes to realestate in Kansas City MO!

2006-12-21T06:40:00.000-08:00

It may be Holiday time in Kansas City, but real estate is beginning to heat
up!

How do I know? No, I didn't put my head to the ground and hear footsteps.... but I have been experiencing more calls for listing appointments and much higher hits on my website!
This is all very good news! Because this is the time to buy or sell. Interest rates are at a good point, there are rumors that they will stay this way a short while.
If you have considered buying, it's time to start looking! If you are considering selling it's time to get your house in order for the market as I discussed in my post When does Spring start in Real Estate.
Happy Holidays!!!
Posted by: Fran White, REALTOR 2006 www.kansascity-realestate.net

Daylight Saving Time

2006-12-21T06:34:00.000-08:00

Need more time during the day to work on your Kansas City home?

Daylight Saving Time
I previously wrote about When is Spring in Real Estate
Today I was pleased to find out when we will be SPRINGING FORWARD and going into Daylight Saving Time this year!
That means more daylight time to look for a home in Kansas City Missouri!!
Webexhibits.org says since 1966, most of the United States has observed Daylight Saving Time from at 2:00 a.m. on the first Sunday of April to 2:00 a.m. on the last Sunday of October.
Beginning in 2007, most of the U.S. will begin Daylight Saving Time at 2:00 a.m. on the second Sunday in March and revert to standard time on the first Sunday in November.
That's great news I think!

When is SPRING in Real Estate?

2006-12-18T08:39:00.000-08:00

Spring starts early in real estate! I'm already working with buyers and sellers that are preparing to buy or sell in spring!

If you are planning on selling your home in the spring, now is a great time to get busy making a to-do list of things you need to accomplish before your home is ready for the market.

I'm sure you've heard the expression you only have one chance to make a great first impression. That not only applies when you are trying to get a job, but also when you are selling your home.

Curb Appeal = First Impression

If you have your home on the market and someone drives up and their first impression isn't good... unfortunately I've had buyers say, "I'm not going in." That's not good.

You don't want them welcomed by chipping paint, leaves from last fall in the yard, un-manicured bushes or screens hanging off the window. And you certainly don't want it to appear you are growing a crop of maple trees in your gutters! If this is what welcomes your prospective buyers, their first impression is going to be YUCK!

Get those leaves from last fall bagged up, touch up that trip around the windows, and give those shrubs a little haircut.

Another important point to focus on is your front door. Spruce it up whether it be with a fresh coat of paint or a shiny new door knob... make it look inviting!

Another good thing to do is wash those windows, inside and out! Sparkly, crystal clear clean windows are important!

We have some days here in Kansas City where the weather is tolerable to be outside in the winter, so sit down and make yourself a Seller's To-Do list of things that will help your home sell quickly.

Posted by: Fran White REALTOR http://www.kansascity-realestate.net/

Wake up!!

2006-12-09T06:41:00.000-08:00

What's your favorite morning waker upper?
I don't know about you, but when I get up in the morning I like a good cup of coffee!! I thought I would share with you my favorite coffee and it's in Kansas City! For me it's The Roasterie
It all started in 1978 when the now "head bean baron" was in Costa Rica as a foreign exchange student.. and his love for coffee was born when he picked his first coffee beans in the mountains around the Poás volcano.
Fifteen years later he founded The Roasterie in the basement of his Brookside home.
I have to say that one thing this company does besides have FABULOUS coffee, is give back to the community!
To this day, nobody else does it like The Roasterie. They've always supported the world's small, specialty farmers and their communities, which is why they get first chance at the world's best beans.
Coffee at it's finest! Coffee and Kansas City Real Estate, a natural combination!

Home Owners Warranties...Are they a good thing?

2006-12-06T05:41:00.000-08:00

What about Homeowners Warranties?
When negotiating a deal I suggest to my buyers to ask for a Home Owners Warranty from the sellers. It's sense of security for the buyers.
In return I always suggest to my sellers to offer a homeowners warranty to buyers, again it creates a sense of security.
But I also tell my buyers about a personal experience I'd had when purchasing a home with a homeowner's warranty. One of the first things I suggest they do when they get into their new home is call a good heating and air conditioning company and have them service the furnace and air conditioner.
When my husband and I purchased our current home in 2002 we negotiated a homeowners warranty.
It was a chilly April and one week after moving in the furnace motor went out.
We called our Home Owners Warranty company (their name will go un-mentioned) and they sent out one of their contract service people. The service man went in, looked at the furnace and said it hadn't been maintained and that's why the motor went out.
I was sure to tell him we'd only lived in the home a week, but that didn't matter he told me it wasn't covered because it hadn't been cleaned and maintained.
Had I called for someone to service the furnace immediately upon moving in the furnace wouldn't have been filled with an accumulation of dust and dirt and would more than likely been covered.
Do I feel homeowner's warranties are valuable? Yes, I do, but I always suggest to my buyers to have their heating and cooling maintenance done immediately upon moving in!
Posted by: Fran White http://www.kansascity-realestate.net/

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Kansas City Real Estate Phone Policy

2006-12-02T08:55:00.000-08:00

Kansas City Real Estate Cell Phone Policy
Boy that sounded corporate didn't it? Well that wasn't my intention, I guess I just wanted to make sure you understand the importance I put on answering my cell phone.
Sometimes in Kansas City Real Estate moments matter! When I first got into this business and started thinking about my own policies and how I wanted to operate I thought about cell phones. Everyone has one...so why does it seem that every time I call another agent I need to leave a message?
This is really a pet peeve of mine. Yes, voice mail is great, but I hate waiting for the call back after you've left a message.
I decided that my own personal policy would be to answer my cell phone 99.9% of the time and I do. (This is not a personal invitation for all of you to test this policy *smile*)
Another thought.... How do you answer your phone? I think it's only professional to answer your phone using your name so the caller immediately knows that he reached the correct person.
How are you answering your phone?
Fran White, REALTOR 2006

Seller's Disclosures: EXAMPLE of the Importance

2006-11-28T14:07:00.000-08:00

Importance, again, of Seller's Disclosures
Last week I wrote about the importance of Seller's Disclosures.
This past weekend I had a prime example. I was showing Mr. And Mrs. Buyer a really nice patio/villa home with a lake view in the 340K range. There were no seller's disclosures in the home which I knew since this was our second showing. I called the listing agent for it at 9 AM and she faxed it to me after noon. When we received the seller's disclosure each page had been X'ed through and not completed. In addition there was an engineer report because there had been heaving in the basement floor, repairs made by the owner, and of course no warranty on them. These two documents managed to totally turn my buyers against the property even though they were ready to make an offer. Not to mention the agent calling me and telling me that she just got word that another agent was sending her an offer. I can't stress the importance of Seller's Disclosures! Granted the current owner (the builders of the community) bought the property back from the owner and did the repairs on the basement.... And still didn't update the Seller's Disclosure after doing the repairs. It literally killed the deal!
This showing was Sunday. Today (Tuesday) the listing agent calls me and says, "what happened to you, you fell off the face of the earth".... She continued with, "well we're hammering out the details of this offer I got from the other agent and........" I just told her that my clients were no longer interested and why they weren't. I said it in a really nice way...... but as we hung up I had to wonder..... was she shopping offers?
Here's a taste of a home for sale in Kansas City Mo area. And it has a Seller's Disclosure.
© Fran White, REALTOR 2006

Seller's Disclosures in Kansas City MO

2006-11-23T07:39:00.000-08:00

It seems lately I have seen a drastic amount of information missing on the sellers disclosure. When I say missing ... I mean left blank.
I don't know about you but when I am getting ready to show buyers the Sellers Disclosure is EXTREMELY important to me as a showing and selling tool.
In my neck of the woods, Kansas City MO, rarely do the buyers ever come in face to face contact with the sellers - so there's never an opportunity for the buyers to ask the sellers questions... so the sellers disclosure pretty much answer the basic major questions.
If I turn to the sellers disclosure and the age of the furnace or central air unit isn't filled in - my mind normally says "really old" especially if none of the rest of the house has been updated.
If there is information not complete, I really begin to wonder to wonder what else they don't want a prospective buyer to know. I guess it suits to say lacking information puts me on guard.
As a listing agent I go through the sellers disclosure with a fine toothcomb to make sure everything is completed.
I also make sure there are extra copies left in the home should the buyers agent not have one.
Another situation that I have come across ... if the sellers had a contract on the home and the sale fell apart during the renegotiation process after inspections - I always have the sellers update that sellers disclosure!
Take a look at this home for sale in Kansas City MO

©Fran White, REALTOR 2006

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Buyers Get Insurance During Inspection Period

2006-11-22T11:37:00.000-08:00

Acquiring Insurance During the Inspection Period
The real estate company that I work for, Reece and Nichols, is going to start requiring that buyers get an insurance commitment with a binder during the 10 day Inspection Period... and I think it's a great idea.

I have to say that I have been telling my buyers for the past 8 months that this was coming. I haven't had any last minute problems with clients not being able to get their prospective homes insured because I've been suggesting that they contact their insurance company during the 10 day inspection period.

It saves a lot of time and hassles and you are not hung out to dry one week before closing because the insurance company went out to take pictures and prepare for insuring the property and they found something not pleasing. There isn't anything worse than a call from your insurance company that says:

"Houston we've got a problem!" (I guess that would be Kansas City in this instance :)

Surprisingly enough, yesterday in sales meeting our broker told us that with the contract changes for the upcoming year, he's heard changes that include the requirement that the insurance commitment with a binder will be required within the inspection period.

Quite frankly I'm glad! I guess when you lead the industry in Kansas City Real Estate, you should lead by example.

© Fran White, REALTOR 2006

Kansas City Real Estate / Real Estate Network

2006-11-17T06:05:00.000-08:00