• 2 bath, 3 bdrm ranch - 
MLS®$119,900 - Gorgeous Renovated Ranch!
Raytown, Jackson County - Everything is new in this adorable ranch! Kitchen features tile backsplash and eat in area. Hardwood floors are found throughout the home. The family room has freshly painted walls with tons of windows. This home has 3 bedrooms with a large Master with a half bath! All bedrooms have ceiling fans, wood floors and big closets! The full bath has been remodeled into a spa décor with tile floors, tiled shower-Beautiful! The full sized basement awaits your touch. Storage and work area is HUGE! Large fenced backyard backs to a creek. This home is a perfect 1st home - it won’t last long! Come see!
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• 3 bath, 3 bdrm bi-level "Raised Ranch" - MLS®$119,900 - Great Starter Home!
Salem East, Independence - What an adorable house! This home features hardwood floors throughout the main level. The family room is spacious and has recently been painted. The kitchen & dining area have a ceiling fan, a lot cabinets for storage and counters for more workspace. It walks out to a covered patio and deck area. Great for entertaining your family and friends. The master bedroom has it's own bath, oversized closets and gorgeous hardwood floors. Bedrooms 2 & 3 are generously proportioned with ceiling fans and wood floors. The rec room downstairs can be used as an exercise area or a second family room. This home is priced to sell, come see today!
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Silvertooth Fahey Farms, Lee's Summit Rural Areas - Announcing a price reduction on 13300 E 93rd street Kansas City Missouri 64138, a 5 bath, 5 bdrm 1 1/2 story "Traditional Brick Home - Lake Front!". Now MLS®$699,900 - Owner finance available!!.
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| Only 60 Days Left! |
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Only 60 DaysLeft You have just65 days to get a home under contract to take advantage of the $6,500 tax creditfor people living in their current home for 5 years or more or the $8,000 firsttime home buyer tax credit. You need toget moving and not cut it too close because there will be a rush at the end ofApril. Make your move now and get underway to getting your cash back from your home purchase. The stars are aligned as interest rates arestill at record lows, a buyer’s market still prevails, and majorly discountedhomes are available with foreclosures at an all-time high. Rates Are StillSo Very Low...For Now Most expertsare predicting interest rates to slowly but steadily rise this year. Most think this will start happening in thenext thirty days. One thing to keep inmind is that you can typically lock in a rate once you have an address for ahome you are buying. We may not seerates like this for many years to come, so it’s an amazing time if you can takeadvantage. Even if you are not in themarket for a new home, then you should at least consider refinancing since weare at the bottom with interest rates. Yes, It IsStill a Buyer's Market Overall supplyof homes in Kansas City rose to a 6.5 months supply in January which indicatesa buyer’s market. Kansas City has beenno exception to the market influx of foreclosures and short sales which haskept inventory levels up. Consideringthese factors, many home buyers in the Kansas City area have been surprised atthe number of homes selling for full price or close to full price consideringit is still a buyer’s market. While itis true that supply of homes is still a little high, there will always bepockets in which a home being sold may not have extreme competition in terms ofprice range or amenities. The market isvery fluid right now with waves of homes going on the market and selling. At any given point in time there may be anexcess of homes in your area on the market, but if priced well the homes gopending leaving a sudden shortage in inventory in that given price range. Banksare getting aggressive with their pricing so many foreclosures are sellingquickly as buyer’s and investors are watching the market closely. The bulk of foreclosures are with largerbanks, and they use realtors to list the homes. Therefore, our search engine will give you information on the homes asthey hit the market. Still, some buyerslike to search for HUD homes at www.FirstPreston.com Even though HUDhomes are all on the MLS and can be found through our search engine, you canget a few extra details about the property at this site such as whatinspections have been completed and what conditions were found. Please remember to always use your own agentwhen making offers. You will always geta better deal and be represented fully at no extra cost. We hope youfind this information valuable and look forward to keeping you informed aboutthe real estate market each month. Please call us with any questions. Our respective phone numbers arebelow. To learn more about the Edge Teamand our real estate services go to WWW.EdgeTeamSells.com. |
Totally Updated
• 3 bath, 3 bdrm single story - MLS®$159,900 - Awesome Price!
Apple Valley, Blue Springs - This beautiful home is in mint condition. It features new carpet, fresh paint, tiled baths and ceiling fans throughout home. Kitchen boasts newly refinished cabinetry, hardwood floors, new microwave and custom built louvered blinds in the dining area. Great room features a wood burning brick fireplace and vaulted ceiling. Master suite is a retreat with a lot of space, huge closet and gorgeous bath. Entertain all your friends and family on the oversized newly stained deck. The backyard has a wood fence and is good sized. You will have storage galore in the spacious garage. This house is a must see!
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Everywhere you turn today whether on the news, in the newspaper and people you meet...they are talking about how bad the housing market is! As a Kansas City realtor, I find this astonishing. I can think of many reasons why there has never been a better time to buy your 1st home or even your next home.
1. The Federal Housing Tax Credit was extended to First Time Home Owners and now move up or repeat buyers. This is a great opportunity to buy the house you have always wanted. Click on the following link for a quick overview of the tax credit requirements. http://www.federalhousingtaxcredit.com/glance.php
2. Interest Rates are still at an incredibly low rate! With these low rates that mortgage companies are extending, you have the ability to buy "more" home for your dollar!
3. There is a surplus of homes currently on the market. That means you...the buyer...are in the drivers seat so to speak. You can deal more aggressively to obtain the best price on your new home.
4. Check into some of the grants that the state of Missouri is offering. Visit the following link for more information: www.mhdc.com
5. You are investing in yourself by having a piece of property that will continue to appreciate in value! Pay yourself first...rather than a landlord!
6. Significant possible tax deductions are available to some home owners.
My list can go on and on...but take it from the many real estate investors I am lucky to work with...they are buying property like crazy.
Explore the market today visiting the link below!
<a target="_blank" href="http://www.marketingsplash1.com/RequestHBSR.asp?ID=BYSDXTBBLBBDAJ"><img src="http://www.marketingsplash1.com/images/splashImg2.jpg" border=0></a>
“The market always heals from the bottom up" according to Paul Bishop,National Association of Realtors Vice President of Research. According to the recently released sales numbers 47% of buyers this past year were first time home buyers. Surpassing the previous high record of first time purchasers set back in 1991.
"These buyers are critical to housing and a general economic recovery ...they absorb inventory, free existing ownersto make a trade and stimulate related goods and services" said Bishop. He compared this rise to the last recession in 1991, where the same dynamic played out "first time home buyers started the chain reaction that led the nation out of recession" he said. Bishop credits tax incentives, record high affordability, and pent up buyer demand to this spikein recent sales. Economists would also credit the FED with suppressing any immediate rise in interest rates affecting home mortgages while the economy is still so fragile.
BUYER PROFILES ARE ALSO DIFFERENT THAN ONE WOULD EXPECT
Themedian age of a first time home buyer is 30 indicating that some are younger and some are older. They are planning to live in their homes for at least ten years. The typical cost Nationwide was $156,000 down 7% from last years figure of $165,000. 87% of First time Home Buyers surveyed considered their home to be a good investment." Single Family homes sold a higher rate than other forms of housing. In fact 78% of the home achieved were single family homes.
HOW ARE BUYERS PAYING FOR HOMES? 96% Choose a fixed rate mortgage. (55% used FHA compared to 8% Using VAPrograms) 61% of First time buyers used their savings as a down payment. 22% received down payment assistance as a gift from family. 6% received loans for down payments from family 6% tapped into a 401 (k) program
WHAT IS OLD IS NEW AGAIN- SAVING MONEY FOR A DOWN PAYMENT ON A HOME
39% of home buyers have cut back on luxury items, 38% cut back on entertainment and 30% cut back spending on clothing according to the study.
THE TAX CREDIT EXPANSION INTO 2010
The expansion of the $8,000 tax incentive program for 1st time home buyers will extend to homes placed under purchase agreements by April 30, 2010. It will also provide home buyers who have owned a home in the past 5 years with a $6,500 tax credit when they purchase a new home by the April 30th deadline.
ARE YOU INTERESTED IN MOVING TO A NEW HOME? FIRST TIME HOME BUYER?
80% of first time home buyers are using the Internet.
Now is the time to put your current house on the market to prepare for your next move. Use this link below to begin your search for available homes. OR Let me help you search for the perfect house.
Shelly Rampetsreiter 816-582-8723 ShellyR@InfinityRealtySells.com
Making a Great First Impression
Article #2 – Inside the House!
Most buyers want to see a home that is “move-in” ready. Scuffed and finger-printed wall are a major turn off for the majority of all buyers. Painting is the cheapest and easiest way to fix the problem but keep in mind to choose a color that appeals to everyone. Neutral colors are the way to go!
Clean every room thoroughly and de-junk each room. If you have any pets make sure your home doesn’t smell like you have pets. People who don’t have pets usually have a keen sense of smell and again it will cause a potential buyer to walk away!
Here is a list of things to help you ready your home for sale!
- Repair any foundation cracks
- Clean all windows inside and out
- Replace broken glass
- Repair any wood rot
- Check all window screens. Replace those that are bent or have holes in them
- Repair or replace caulking and weather stripping around the doors
- Exterior and interior doors lock properly and are easy to open and close
- Oil any squeaky hinges
- Doorbell is in working order
- Polish Brass door handles
- Repair any noisy pipes
- Repair any squeaky floorboards
- Replace any loose floorboards or floor tiles
- Repair any woodwork ( door frames, baseboards, chair rails, etc.) if chipped or dented
- Give woodwork a fresh coat of paint, if needed
- Smoke detectors are working
- All electrical outlets are working
- All electrical switches are working and have plate covers
When showing the house…
- Have your thermostat set at a comfortable level
- Soft music playing
- All interior doors open to create a sense of spaciousness
- Curtains / blinds open for maximum natural light
- Interior lights on for warm ambiance
- The aroma of coffee or cookies in the air
Some household tips…
- Squeaky wooden floors – dust talcum powder into the cracks to stop squeaking
- Sticky Drawers – Rub a bar of hand soap across the runners. Drawers should glide much easier!
Selling Your Home – Making a Great First Impression!
Series of Success Tips – Article #1
The Exterior
I’m sure you have heard the term “Curb Appeal”. Making your house appear as attractive and friendly as possible from the street is a crucial step in getting the buyer to stop and take notice of your home. More importantly, it makes them want to see the rest of your home. Trust me when I say it will be hard to get buyers interest in see the interior of the home and all its potential if the exterior of your home creates a negative first impression
¬ Clear away any litter between the street curb and your front door
¬ Remove oil stains from the driveway
¬ Repair any cracks or broken bits of driveway paving
¬ Clear bikes and toys from the driveway. (When showing your home keep the driveway clear of all cars.
¬ Remove weeds and grass growing in walkway.
¬ Trim back shrubs protruding into the walkway
¬ Trim the shrubs away from the house windows for security and to make interior rooms lighter.
¬ Weed the flower beds and add new mulch
¬ Prune dead branches and pull back anything creeping across the house
¬ Cut the grass
¬ Dispose of pet debris
¬ If house is wood, scrape and paint if needed
¬ Clean out the gutters
¬ Repair or replace gutters and downspouts
¬ Repair any parts of the roof ie. Replace missing or loose shingles
¬ Repair any foundation cracks
¬ Clean all windows inside and out. Storm windows too!
¬ Repair any wood rot
¬ Replace any cracked windows
¬ Make sure door locks properly and opens and closes with ease
¬ Oil any squeaky door hinges
¬ Doorbell is in working order
¬ There is a working light by the front door
¬ Tighten any wobbly porch or deck floor boards
¬ Clean lawn furniture
¬ Property is free of clutter, particularly toys, garden hoses etc.
Making a lasting impression:
¬ Shutters and front door painted in a spectacular color which complements the exterior of the house
¬ All season wreath on the front door
¬ Attractive door mat
¬ Hanging planters
¬ Memorable groupings of flowers on porches, decks and by front door
Helpful Links to help you ready your home for sale!
Hardware sites:
www.acehardware.com
www.builderdepot.com
www.craftsman.com
www.Doitbest.com
www.ebuildingsource.com
www.homedepot.com
www.homecenter.com
Gardening Sites:
www.backyardgardner.com
www.bloomingbulb.com
www.creativegardener.com
www.gardendesigner.com
www.gardenguides.com
www.gardeningtips.com
www.my-container-garden.com
Buying a home is a major deal. When doing so there are some things you need to consider when looking for your next home. Below is a list of 8 areas you need to consider when making your purchase. Not only will it help you feel confident you are choosing the right home, it will help you give your Realtor the best information to help you find the home that’s right for you… - How many people will the home accommodate?
This will help you determine how many bedrooms you need and the overall square footage you will require in a home.
- How do you feel about yard work?
Do you dream of owning a home with a large open yard or one that almost feels like a cabin deep in the woods? Do you absolutely hate working outside? Do you want the yard to accommodate a host of activities for you, your friends, and family? Do you have a pet(s) that need space for exercise? All of these factors will influence your choice in home. While a condo or home in a neighborhood that provides lawn care, snow removal, etc. may be a good choice for those that don’t enjoy yard work or simply don’t have the time. Other home buyers would prefer to maintain a garden, lush landscape, pool, etc. Keep this in mind when specifying your criteria for your home. Many people don’t put enough thought into this factor and end up regretting their decision in home choice after it’s too late.
- Do you or any other potential residents of the home have any special needs?
This may be important in that you may require a home that is a single story home due to mobility, or maybe you require wider door openings. Think about steps and whether or not there would be an easy way to accommodate the resident if there are. Do you require a garage of a certain size, height, etc. due to the need for a special type of vehicle? Do you need a shower vs. a tub, again consider these types of things in searching for the right home.
- What stage of life are you in?
This may play an important part in selecting your next home. Do have a specific school district you would like your children to attend? Do you want kid-friendly amenities nearby (a community park, neighborhood park, etc)? Do you want to live in a “walking” neighborhood, one with sidewalks which may be safer for younger ones riding trikes and bikes…? Are any convicted child molesters living in the immediate vicinity? On the flip side, would you prefer to live in a community for those that are entering the golden years of your life? Would you like a community that hosts group activites, group outings, etc. These are all factors you need to consider when purchasing a home…
- What type of community (or privacy) do you prefer?
Many people enjoy the feeling of community; therefore, they would like to select a home in an area where this is a since of community and neighborhood involvement. Maybe they hold annual garage sales, or have an annual parade, etc. Again, would you prefer a neighborhood conducive to taking daily walks and/or walking your pet(s)? Would you prefer homes on much larger lots or in secluded areas which give you a feeling of privacy? Would you prefer to be somewhere in between the two extremes?
- Do you want “move in ready” or a “fixer upper”?
You may decide a fixer upper is the better choice because you could save some money on the purchase price, but be careful that you do not get in over your head. It may end up costing more than it’s worth if you don’t have the expertise or the money to do all that’s required. If you are not one for taking on projects, a move-in ready home may be the best choice for you.
- Do you need to be close to your place of employment or public transportation?
If you are considering moving to an area you are not familiar with, it may be a good idea to consider the traffic patterns. While it may be physically closer to your job or other areas of importance, it may actually take longer based on the congestion, etc. Do you need a home that is close enough to walk to transportation or drive your vehicle a short distance to get there?
- Finally, consider amenities and features in the home that are “nice to have” vs. what you would consider essential…
Please feel free to contact me with any questions you may have about the area or if you'd like me to send you the current active listings in the area. I look forward to hearing from you!
My Website
Call me at 816.582.8723 or email me at Shelly@KCRealtor4you.com
1st Time Home Buyers May Qualify for a $8,000 Tax Credit!
Do you Know if you Qualify?
You are invited to a special workshop designed with you,the first time home buyer in mind.
When: April 14th / April 28th 6:30 PM
Space is limited...Reserve your space in one of the workshops!
R.S.V.P to Shelly Rampetsreiter at 816.582.8723
Where: Infinity Realty
304 SE Third Street
Lee’s Summit, MO 64063
This is one of the best times in many years to purchase your first home! Home values are extremely appealing and in many cases new home owners are discovering their house payments are the same as what they paid in rent!
Topics of Discussion:
* 8 Reasons You Should Own a Home *How do I qualify for a Home Mortgage?
* The Home Buying Process *Protecting Your Investment
* What is the 2009 First Time Home Buyer’s Tax Credit?
Tips for first-time Homebuyers
1. It’s okay to be picky, but be realistic. Even a new home is never perfect!
2. Do your homework before you start shopping. Decide what you really want from a home and keep that in mind. Search for your home at www.KCRealtor4you.com .
3. Make sure your finances are in order. Review and double check all your credit reports and ensure you have enough saved to cover both your down payment and your closing costs.
4. Don’t delay in getting your loan. Work with a lender to get pre-approved for a mortgage before you start looking. This will always lend you credibility when negotiating on a property.
5. Decide when you would be able to move. How long does your lease have to run? Do you need to still sell your home?
6. Think about the long term. Do you want a starter home with the idea of moving bigger in a few years or is this a long term, family investment. Making this decision may dictate what type of home you should be looking for as well as the type of mortgage that may suit their needs.
Don’t let yourself become over leveraged. If you invest all your financial resources to buy the biggest home you can afford, you will likely find yourself without any funds left for maintenance or decoration and/or to save money for other financial goals.
Do not be naïve or cut corners. A smart buyer will insist upon a home inspection, and ensure any major defects discovered be fixed before closing.
Find a real estate professional whose style and principles match yours. Consider working with a buyer’s agent. Home buying is not only a big financial commitment, but also a highly emotional one. It’s very important that the agent you choose is both great at their job and a good fit with your personality. Unlike the listing agent, whose first duty is always to the seller, a buyer’s representative is working for you and your best interests only. Often buyer’s agents are paid out of the seller’s commission payment.
If you find that perfect home now. Don’t second-guess the interest rates or a possible change in the housing market by waiting. Such changes don’t usually occur fast enough to make that much difference in price and great homes won’t stay on the market long.
Understand that there is no such thing as a completely perfect house. Focus on finding the things that are most important to you and consider letting the minor flaws go.
Don’t negotiate yourself out of the game. Negotiation is certainly a big part of the real estate process, but trying to gain by looking for an extra-low price may lose you the house.
Make a post home buying budget. Factor in all the decorating and repair costs. Even the newest of homes needs a little work. Even if you buy a new home, there will be some costs. Don’t leave yourself short and let your home deteriorate.
Some buyer’s remorse is almost always inevitable but it will pass. Purchasing a home, especially the first one, is a huge commitment, but the investment yields great returns.
Shelly Rampetsreiter 816.582.8723 ShellyR@infinityrealtysells.com Infinity Realty 304 SE Third St. Lee's Summit, MO 64086