November 2010 - Posts

• Breaking Kansas City Real Estate News - Massive Foreclosures Coming!

  Breaking Kansas City Housing News… National Association of Realtors home sales data shows continued home value loss. Reports on the simply massive number of bank Shadow Inventory of soon to be foreclosures is 4  million foreclosures. The Shadow Inventory of real estate foreclosures is expected to be released in the real estate market over the next 24 months! For Kansas City home buyers this means there will be some real estate bargains coming soon. For Kansas City home sellers this means that if you plan on moving within the next 2 years you may want to sell now to avoid losing more equity in your Kansas City home. RE/MAX sells more homes than any other real estate company. For a reason...should we talk? Let us know what you think or add to our blog by writing a comment. Do you have a real estate question for the Real Estate Wizards? Blog post written by the Dowell Taggart Team of RE/MAX Best Associates Find out why you should contact the Dowell Taggart Team for your Kansas City real estate needs . . . .      We can help you with online real estate tools that less than 10 Kansas City REALTORS use      Search 21,000 homes for sale in Kansas City including foreclosures, short sales, luxury homes and more . . .      Learn how to save on the real estate commission      Learn how we can help you save money  . . . Go to our Kansas City Real Estate Website! Posted Monday, November 29, 2010 9:44 AM from Online Kansas City | 0 Comments Filed under: Stats, Kansas City Real Estate, Foreclosure

• 10 steps that buyers can take to make their Kansas City home dreams a reality

  It is a great time to buy a Kansas City home or condo for many would-be homeowners. The Kansas City real estate market offers historically low interest rates, as well as affordable home prices. Here are 10 steps that buyers can take to make their Kansas City home dreams a reality! 1. Savings. You may already know how much monthly payment you can support. Mortgage experts recommend no more than 29% of your monthly income. The home buying process will also include upfront costs, such as a downpayment and closing costs. 2. Downpayment options. Do you qualify for downpayment assistance programs? Will you be able to get an FHA loan and pay 3.5 percent down? Need help with the down payment? Do you have a relative that would like to make a downpayment gift? Also, In certain areas like Gardner, Kansas you can buy a home with zero down by obtaining a RD USDA mortgage loan. Many financial experts recommend a downpayment of 10-20%, so be sure to explore your options! 3. Check Credit Report. Your credit report says a lot about you. Kansas City mortgage lenders use it to evaluate your risk potential and to inform themselves on how responsible of a borrower you are. They use this report and subsequent score to figure your interest rate. The more stellar your report, the better your score and thus lower your rate. Be sure to check your report for accuracy, and report any errors to the credit reporting agencies. 4. Get Prequalified. It's time to talk to a Kansas City mortgage lender! A pre-qualification will give you a ballpark figure of how much the bank would be willing to lend you. Are you looking for a $150,000 home or a $300,000 home? 5. Get Full Pre-Approval. This is the official letter from the Kansas City mortgage lender that says they will be willing to lend you money. Many home sellers look for buyers who are completely approved for a mortgage loan. 6. Affordability. The bank may tell you that you can afford a home worth $400,000. This does not mean you want to borrow to your maximum pre-approval amount. A more modest home of $200,000 may fit better in your financial plans. Remember there will be other monthly expenses to consider when purchasing. 7. Housing Criteria. You have a monthly budget, now develop a list of what you need and want. This can include anything from "must have 4 bedrooms" to "finished basement" or "granite counter tops". 8. Neighborhood choice. Location strongly affects prices. A 2,500 square foot ocean front home in California will costs much more than a home in Kansas City. Decide what Kansas City neighborhoods and areas are the best fit for you. This will help narrow your home search. Take into account location to work, shopping, parks and schools. What factors are most important to you? 9. Hire a Kansas City full-time agent. An Kansas City real estate agent can help you navigate the entire process from searching, putting in offers, to where to hire an inspector or general contractors. Although 84% of home buyers now start their search online, a real estate agent will have access to tools and knowledge that will help in your real estate search. 10. Start your Kansas City home search! Realtor.com, Trulia, Zillow and and IDX are wonderful places to begin your search. Nothing though will replace the Heartland Multiple Listing Service (HMLS). The HMLS is only reserved for licenced Kansas City real estate agents who are REALTORS. To have access to the HMLS, you’ll need to hire a Kansas City real estate agent who is also a REALTOR. Can you think of any steps that I might have missed? RE/MAX sells more homes than any other real estate company. For a reason...should we talk? Let us know what you think or add to our blog by writing a comment. Do you have a real estate question for the Real Estate Wizards? Blog post written by the Dowell Taggart Team of RE/MAX Best Associates Find out why you should contact the Dowell Taggart Team for your Kansas City real estate needs . . . .      We can help you with online real estate tools that less than 10 Kansas City REALTORS use      Search 21,000 homes for sale in Kansas City including foreclosures, short sales, luxury homes and more . . .      Learn how to save on the real estate commission      Learn how we can help you save money  . . . Go to our Kansas City Real Estate Website! Posted Tuesday, November 23, 2010 1:21 PM from Online Kansas City | 0 Comments Filed under: Kansas City Real Estate, Buyers

• Leawood Facts and Stats

  Leawood Facts and Stats as requested by first time home buyer Victoria P. RE/MAX sells more homes than any other real estate company. For a reason...should we talk? Let us know what you think or add to our blog by writing a comment. Do you have a real estate question for the Real Estate Wizards? Blog post written by the Dowell Taggart Team of RE/MAX Best Associates Find out why you should contact the Dowell Taggart Team for your Kansas City real estate needs . . . .      We can help you with online real estate tools that less than 10 Kansas City REALTORS use      Search 21,000 homes for sale in Kansas City including foreclosures, short sales, luxury homes and more . . .      Learn how to save on the real estate commission      Learn how we can help you save money  . . . Go to our Kansas City Real Estate Website! Posted Monday, November 22, 2010 1:47 PM from Online Kansas City | 0 Comments Filed under: Stats, Leawood Real Estate, Luxury Home

• Leawood, Kansas Real Estate Stats

  The Leawood, Kansas Real Estate Stats were requested by web surfer Victoria P. Victoria is a first time home buyer looking to move to Leawood, Kansas. Map of Leawood, Kansas: RE/MAX sells more homes than any other real estate company. For a reason...should we talk? Let us know what you think or add to our blog by writing a comment. Do you have a real estate question for the Real Estate Wizards? Blog post written by the Dowell Taggart Team of RE/MAX Best Associates Find out why you should contact the Dowell Taggart Team for your Kansas City real estate needs . . . .      We can help you with online real estate tools that less than 10 Kansas City REALTORS use      Search 21,000 homes for sale in Kansas City including foreclosures, short sales, luxury homes and more . . .      Learn how to save on the real estate commission      Learn how we can help you save money  . . . Go to our Kansas City Real Estate Website! Posted Monday, November 22, 2010 10:41 AM from Online Kansas City | 0 Comments Filed under: Stats, Leawood Real Estate

• Turkey Fryer Causes Damages on Olathe, Kansas Home - Are you Prepared for Thanksgiving?

  An Olathe, Kansas family was reminded of the perils of frying turkeys after a fryer caught fire. Olathe, KS. firefighters responded to the 900 block of N. Canyon Drive in Western Olathe after witnesses reported flames coming from the garage of a residence. When firefighters arrived, they noticed a turkey fryer standing just a few feet outside of the house’s garage. Investigators say an alert neighbor used a fire extinguisher to prevent the fire from advancing further, noting that had the neighbor been just a few minutes late, the fire could have spread further. Although damages are listed at just $1,000, the fire gave Olathe crews another opportunity to remind homeowners to the dangers of turkey fryers. The Olathe Fire Department states on their Facebook Page that nearly 1,300 home cooking fires happened on Thanksgiving day in 2007. Thanksgiving Day fires cause more property damage and claims more lives than any other day of the year. Unattended cooking is the #1 culprit. High up the list are turkey fryers. Did you know that no turkey fryer has a UL certification? UL is a global product safety testing and certification source with more than 110 years of experience In 2007 across the United States, nearly 1,300 home cooking fires happened on Thanksgiving Day – that’s almost three times the daily average according to the National Fire Protection Association and United States Fire Administration. These home fires cause more property damage and claim more lives than any other day. Unattended cooking is cited as the culprit. Turkey fryers create serious safety concerns like: Oil may spill onto the open burner and create a fire – some fryers have as much as 35 quarts of oil The fryer can easily tip over and spill hot, scalding oil onto anyone or anything nearby Some fryers have no automatic thermostat controls which means oil may heat to a high temperature until it catches fire The fryer’s sides, lids, and handles get extremely hot and can cause severe burns For more information, go to: Neighbor spares Olathe house from turkey fryer fire - NBCActionNews.com - Kansas City RE/MAX sells more homes than any other real estate company. For a reason...should we talk? Let us know what you think or add to our blog by writing a comment. Do you have a real estate question for the Real Estate Wizards? Blog post written by the Dowell Taggart Team of RE/MAX Best Associates Find out why you should contact the Dowell Taggart Team for your Kansas City real estate needs . . . . We can help you with online real estate tools that less than 10 Kansas City REALTORS use Search 21,000 homes for sale in Kansas City including foreclosures, short sales, luxury homes and more . . . Learn how to save on the real estate commission Learn how we can help you save money . . . Go to our Kansas City Real Estate Website! Posted Saturday, November 20, 2010 6:48 AM from Online Kansas City | 0 Comments Filed under: News

• Thanksgiving 2010 Professional Football Lineup featuring - Patriots vs. Lions, Saints vs. Cowboys and Jets vs. Bengals

  Thanksgiving doesn’t just mean great food, it means great football too! The Dowell Taggart Team of RE/MAX Best Associates wanted to share with you the football games on Thanksgiving New England Patriots vs. Detroit Lions @ Ford Field in Detroit - 12:30p.m. on CBS New Orleans Saints vs. Dallas Cowboys @ Cowboys Stadium in Dallas - 4:15p.m. on FOX New York Jets vs. Cincinnati Bengals @ New Meadowlands Stadium in New Jersey - 8:20 p.m.  on  the NFL Network RE/MAX sells more homes than any other real estate company. For a reason...should we talk? Let us know what you think or add to our blog by writing a comment. Do you have a real estate question for the Real Estate Wizards? Blog post written by the Dowell Taggart Team of RE/MAX Best Associates Find out why you should contact the Dowell Taggart Team for your Kansas City real estate needs . . . .      We can help you with online real estate tools that less than 10 Kansas City REALTORS use      Search 21,000 homes for sale in Kansas City including foreclosures, short sales, luxury homes and more . . .      Learn how to save on the real estate commission      Learn how we can help you save money  . . . Go to our Kansas City Real Estate Website! Posted Friday, November 19, 2010 1:47 PM from Online Kansas City | 0 Comments Filed under: Sports

• Olathe, KS. Economic, People and Quality of Life Facts and Stats for Zip Code 66061

  Olathe, KS. Economic, People and Quality of Life Facts and Stats for Zip Code 66061 Map of Olathe, KS. Zip Code 66061 RE/MAX sells more homes than any other real estate company. For a reason...should we talk? Let us know what you think or add to our blog by writing a comment. Do you have a real estate question for the Real Estate Wizards? Blog post written by the Dowell Taggart Team of RE/MAX Best Associates Find out why you should contact the Dowell Taggart Team for your Kansas City real estate needs . . . .      We can help you with online real estate tools that less than 10 Kansas City REALTORS use      Search 21,000 homes for sale in Kansas City including foreclosures, short sales, luxury homes and more . . .      Learn how to save on the real estate commission      Learn how we can help you save money  . . . Go to our Kansas City Real Estate Website! Posted Friday, November 19, 2010 8:36 AM from Online Kansas City | 0 Comments Filed under: Stats, 66061, Olathe

• Nottingham at Heritage Park Subdivision Quality of Life and Economic Stats - Olathe, Kansas

  Nottingham at Heritage Park Subdivision Quality of Life and Economic Stats - Olathe, Kansas Nottingham at Heritage Park is located just east of 159th and Blackbob. RE/MAX sells more homes than any other real estate company. For a reason...should we talk? Let us know what you think or add to our blog by writing a comment. Do you have a real estate question for the Real Estate Wizards? Blog post written by the Dowell Taggart Team of RE/MAX Best Associates Find out why you should contact the Dowell Taggart Team for your Kansas City real estate needs . . . .      We can help you with online real estate tools that less than 10 Kansas City REALTORS use      Search 21,000 homes for sale in Kansas City including foreclosures, short sales, luxury homes and more . . .      Learn how to save on the real estate commission      Learn how we can help you save money  . . . Go to our Kansas City Real Estate Website! Posted Thursday, November 18, 2010 1:32 PM from Online Kansas City | 0 Comments Filed under: Stats, Nottingham at Heritage Park, Olathe Real Estate, 66062

• The Gardner- Edgerton Trailblazers are heading to Overland Park, KS. to play the Blue Valley Tigers for Kansas Sub-State 5A

  The Gardner- Edgerton Trailblazers are heading to Overland Park, KS. to play the Blue Valley Tigers for Kansas Sub-State 5A RE/MAX sells more homes than any other real estate company. For a reason...should we talk? Let us know what you think or add to our blog by writing a comment. Do you have a real estate question for the Real Estate Wizards? Blog post written by the Dowell Taggart Team of RE/MAX Best Associates Find out why you should contact the Dowell Taggart Team for your Kansas City real estate needs . . . .      We can help you with online real estate tools that less than 10 Kansas City REALTORS use      Search 21,000 homes for sale in Kansas City including foreclosures, short sales, luxury homes and more . . .      Learn how to save on the real estate commission      Learn how we can help you save money  . . . Go to our Kansas City Real Estate Website! Posted Wednesday, November 17, 2010 10:58 PM from Online Kansas City | 0 Comments Filed under: Sports, Gardner, 66030

• Hootsuite is making Changes . . . Do you like the Changes? Will you use Hootsuite in your Social Media Plan?

  It's been nearly 2 years since Hootsuite launched. Since then, HootSuite has crossed over 900 thousand users with 1.9 million social networks, and now manages 1 million outbound messages per day with a team of nearly 30 employees, plus they've released free mobile apps for several major platforms (with more to come), and forged close partnerships with our friends at Twitter and Facebook...  HootSuite helps organizations use the social web to launch marketing campaigns, identify and grow audience, and distribute targeted messages across multiple channels. Using HootSuite’s unique social media dashboard, teams can collaboratively schedule updates to Twitter, Facebook, Linkedin, Wordpress and other social networks via web, desktop or mobile platforms plus track campaign results and industry trends to rapidly adjust tactics. Launched in Dec. 2008 by Invoke Media, HootSuite’s rapidly growing user base includes governments, artists and organizations like The White House, Martha Stewart Media, SXSW and Zappos. Accolades include awards from Mashable’s Open Web, Canadian New Media, and Shorty Awards. A few months back, Hootsuite started offering both free and paid plans. Since their announcement, they've listened closely to the feedback of their customers. They have introduced a paid plan in order tp keep releasing more apps and functionality. Here are the Hootsuite plans. Pro $5.99/month Basic FREE Unlimited Social Networks Unlimited RSS/Atom Feeds Unlimited Ow.ly Stat History Unlimited Social Insights 1 Team Member Included 1 Google Analytics Integration Facebook Insights Enhanced Support 2 Influence Scores Ad Free 1 Up to 14 additional team members available for monthly fee 2 $5/month for support per team member 5 Social Networks 1 2 RSS/Atom Feeds 30 Day Ow.ly Stat History Ad Supported Message scheduling Saved draft messages Multi-network integration 1 Limit of personally added social networks. You can have access to unlimited social networks as a team member. RE/MAX sells more homes than any other real estate company. For a reason...should we talk? Let us know what you think or add to our blog by writing a comment. Do you have a real estate question for the Real Estate Wizards? Blog post written by the Dowell Taggart Team of RE/MAX Best Associates Find out why you should contact the Dowell Taggart Team for your Kansas City real estate needs . . . .      We can help you with online real estate tools that less than 10 Kansas City REALTORS use      Search 21,000 homes for sale in Kansas City including foreclosures, short sales, luxury homes and more . . .      Learn how to save on the real estate commission      Learn how we can help you save money  . . . Go to our Kansas City Real Estate Website! Posted Wednesday, November 17, 2010 8:04 PM from Online Kansas City | 0 Comments Filed under: Social Media

• Olathe, KS. Real Estate Stats

  Olathe, KS. Real Estate Stats RE/MAX sells more homes than any other real estate company. For a reason...should we talk? Let us know what you think or add to our blog by writing a comment. Do you have a real estate question for the Real Estate Wizards? Blog post written by the Dowell Taggart Team of RE/MAX Best Associates Find out why you should contact the Dowell Taggart Team for your Kansas City real estate needs . . . .      We can help you with online real estate tools that less than 10 Kansas City REALTORS use      Search 21,000 homes for sale in Kansas City including foreclosures, short sales, luxury homes and more . . .      Learn how to save on the real estate commission      Learn how we can help you save money  . . . Go to our Kansas City Real Estate Website! Posted Wednesday, November 17, 2010 4:23 PM from Online Kansas City | 0 Comments Filed under: Stats, Olathe Real Estate, 66061, 66062

• Kansas City Mortgage Interest Rates will RISE! We'll show you how to save money . . .

  Retro might come back...Maybe....That’s why I’m hanging on to ALL of my polyester disco clothes. Chuckling. Interest in my disco clothes is headed downhill...Mortgage interest rates will rise.... Maybe you believe the interest rate is less important than getting a great deal on the price of your home?  The difference in monthly payment on a $175,000 home is $312....simply by purchasing at the current interest rates of 4.17% APR , vs. 6 5/8% APR. $312 a month.  In your pocket....Used to pay off other debt...Invest toward retirement. Just be more secure in an insecure economy. When we helped Josh write the offer 2 weeks ago on that Gardner home, he saved $287 per month. Larry and Ginnie are saving $223 per month on the offer we wrote last week on their new Overland Park home.   Pierre is saving $338 per month on the home we wrote last Wednesday on his new Olathe home. Ron and Sheila are saving $554 a month on their new Lenexa home. List goes on for this month’s new sales.... Why aren’t YOU on the list? Realtor...Means find the best home, create the best circumstances based on a  client's needs....Any ding dong can write an offer. You’d like to work with a ding dong? My client’s won’t. When it’s time for you to buy a home, should we talk? RE/MAX sells more homes than any other real estate company on earth...for a reason. Let us know what you think or add to our blog by writing a comment. Do you have a real estate question for the Real Estate Wizards? Blog post written by the Dowell Taggart Team of RE/MAX Best Associates Find out why you should contact the Dowell Taggart Team for your Kansas City real estate needs . . . .      We can help you with online real estate tools that less than 10 Kansas City REALTORS use      Search 21,000 homes for sale in Kansas City including foreclosures, short sales, luxury homes and more . . .      Learn how to save on the real estate commission      Learn how we can help you save money  . . . Go to our Kansas City Real Estate Website! Posted Wednesday, November 17, 2010 2:22 PM from Online Kansas City | 0 Comments Filed under: Financing, Kansas City Real Estate, Mortgage, Banking

• City of Olathe, Kansas Economic, People and Quality if Life Facts and Stats

  City of Olathe, Kansas Economic, People and Quality if Life Facts and Stats Map of the City of Olathe, Kansas Olathe is a great place to live and work! RE/MAX sells more homes than any other real estate company. For a reason...should we talk? Let us know what you think or add to our blog by writing a comment. Do you have a real estate question for the Real Estate Wizards? Blog post written by the Dowell Taggart Team of RE/MAX Best Associates Find out why you should contact the Dowell Taggart Team for your Kansas City real estate needs . . . .      We can help you with online real estate tools that less than 10 Kansas City REALTORS use      Search 21,000 homes for sale in Kansas City including foreclosures, short sales, luxury homes and more . . .      Learn how to save on the real estate commission      Learn how we can help you save money  . . . Go to our Kansas City Real Estate Website! Posted Wednesday, November 17, 2010 2:21 PM from Online Kansas City | 0 Comments Filed under: Stats, 66061, Olathe, 66062

• “I know it’s not a great time to sell in Kansas City. Should I put my home on the real estate market now or wait until spring?”

  I have been asked by many Kansas City homeowners: “I know it’s not a great time to sell in Kansas City.  Should I put my home on the real estate market now or wait until spring?” The first part of the answer depends on a homeowner’ personal goals.  If a seller has no place to go, plans on purchasing in the future or has other external factors that push their timeline out, it may make sense to wait until those answers are figured out and there’s less uncertainty.  This can be the case for any seller at any time of the year. There are six main advantages for a Kansas City homeowner selling now versus waiting until next spring: 1.  Inventory – In the spring, how many other Kansas City home owner's will end up using the “Next Spring Strategy”?  They may have been waiting a year or so until the market got better, or just figured it was the best time to list their property.  So her comes the spring and the highest inventory of homes for sale. There will be that much more competition to potentially compete with. When there is more supply, typically the listing prices go down.  By listing now, you avoid all that potential competition of next spring 2.  Motivated buyers – Often, many Kansas City home buyers will just wait until spring to start their search. The home buyers who are house hunting during the winter holidays  are serious and motivated home buyers. Sure there will be less of them but they will be more serious home buyers. By listing now, you’ll potentially get one of these buyers to write an offer on your home before the spring rush starts. 3.  Mortgage rates – The mortgage rates right now are below 5%. This is actually causing an uptick in buyer traffic and activity.  I think November, December and January will end up being busier months for many agents than July through October, which is unusual.  By listing now, you’ll catch this waive of buyers shopping for houses. 4.  Buyer Confidence – Forget about what you read in the newspapers and hear on TV. Buyer confidence is starting to shift, which is also increasing buyer traffic. I’m getting multiple offers on homes right now. Don’t you want to take advantage of the shift? 5.  Accomplish your goals now - When it’s all said and done, wouldn’t you rather have sold your home by March or April, and then enjoy the spring rather than just listing your house then?  I love it when we accomplish our goals ahead of time, it’s a great feeling.  By listing now, you’re positioning yourself to accomplish your goals sooner than later. What else will you be doing during the winter months? 6.  Reverse fear – Not to buy into the media’s doom and gloom, but there’s always a risk that the housing market could deteriorate more instead of picking up by mid next year.  In addition, the reality of the Kansas City real estate market getting that much better in a short period of time is remote.  It is doubtful that waiting until spring would bring you a higher sales price.  It could even be worse if they think the economy is going to deteriorate as the unemployment rate continues to skyrocket.  By listing now, you avoid that uncertainty. Bottom line; interest rates are rising and Fall/Buyer Buyers are typically more serious.  A well-known local developer/Broker shared coffee with me on Saturday morning.  I referred to her a sale opportunity in Liberty.  She believes, “Winter buyers are fewer tire kickers and looky-loos...”. I believe her.   If you want to take advantage of a more serious buyer pool, and the interest rates that are driving this year’s Buyers, then let’s get started. RE/MAX sells more homes than any other real estate company in the world....for a reason. Should we talk? Let us know what you think or add to our blog by writing a comment. Do you have a real estate question for the Real Estate Wizards? Blog post written by the Dowell Taggart Team of RE/MAX Best Associates Find out why you should contact the Dowell Taggart Team for your Kansas City real estate needs . . . .      We can help you with online real estate tools that less than 10 Kansas City REALTORS use      Search 21,000 homes for sale in Kansas City including foreclosures, short sales, luxury homes and more . . .      Learn how to save on the real estate commission      Learn how we can help you save money  . . . Go to our Kansas City Real Estate Website! Posted Wednesday, November 17, 2010 11:09 AM from Online Kansas City | 0 Comments Filed under: Kansas City Real Estate, Home Seller

• “Best Kansas Online Real Estate Blog”, as awarded by HomeInsurance.org.

  “Best Kansas Online Real Estate Blog”, as awarded by HomeInsurance.org Here I am prepared to say something smart-alecky....Accepting praise isn’t my strong point. All I got is “Aw shucks!” Very cool....I wasn’t sure anyone was reading out there in cyberspace! We’re pleased to deliver the latest and greatest news of our Kansas City Real Estate Market, as well as the latest news of the surrounding suburbs of Gardner, Olathe, and Overland Park! Our Kansas City Real Estate market is chugging along, up more than 14.3% over same time last year, while the rest of the nation, still growing, lags behind us, at a mere 9.8% growth in sales. Many thanks to the stalwart readers, friends, and cooperating agents in the metro and beyond.  Yesterday checking our traffic, we had a group of folks from Calgary, Canada...They apparently want to purchase the Chiefs....We’re selling if the price is right! The folks who make this happen are our clients...Thank you for you faith in our efforts, and your trust in our work. When you’re looking for the latest in real estate news, the best places to spend the weekend....simply the best in an overview of residential and residential investment real estate, find it us at Online Kansas City! RE/MAX sells more homes than any other real estate company. For a reason...should we talk? Let us know what you think or add to our blog by writing a comment. Do you have a real estate question for the Real Estate Wizards? Blog post written by the Dowell Taggart Team of RE/MAX Best Associates Find out why you should contact the Dowell Taggart Team for your Kansas City real estate needs . . . .      We can help you with online real estate tools that less than 10 Kansas City REALTORS use      Search 21,000 homes for sale in Kansas City including foreclosures, short sales, luxury homes and more . . .      Learn how to save on the real estate commission      Learn how we can help you save money  . . . Go to our Kansas City Real Estate Website! Posted Wednesday, November 17, 2010 7:54 AM from Online Kansas City | 0 Comments Filed under: Awards

• Gardner - Edgerton Blazers pleased for game at Blue Valley Tigers this Friday

  Before Blue Valley played at Gardner Edgerton three weeks ago in the regular-season finale and Class 5A District 4 championship game, it was suggested that losing might be of bigger benefit. The logic was that the loser was likely to be the host if the two teams met again during sub-state play, a situation that materialized last week when the Trailblazers bludgeoned Topeka Shawnee Heights at home and the Tigers tore up Topeka-Seaman on the road. The Gardner-Edgerton Blazers vs. Blue Valley Tigers football game is this Friday at 7:00 pm at the Blue Valley football stadium. To read the KansasCity.com article, go to: Blazers pleased for game at Blue Valley - KansasCity.com RE/MAX sells more homes than any other real estate company. For a reason...should we talk? Let us know what you think or add to our blog by writing a comment. Do you have a real estate question for the Real Estate Wizards? Blog post written by the Dowell Taggart Team of RE/MAX Best Associates Find out why you should contact the Dowell Taggart Team for your Kansas City real estate needs . . . . We can help you with online real estate tools that less than 10 Kansas City REALTORS use Search 21,000 homes for sale in Kansas City including foreclosures, short sales, luxury homes and more . . . Learn how to save on the real estate commission Learn how we can help you save money . . . Go to our Kansas City Real Estate Website! Posted Wednesday, November 17, 2010 7:21 AM from Online Kansas City | 0 Comments Filed under: Sports, Gardner

• If you're like me you have Jan. 29th circled on your calendar - Kansas State Wildcats vs. Kansas Jayhawks

  Last night the Kansas University Jayhawks overpowered Valpo. Tonight, the Kansas State University Wildcats slowly dismantled the #23 Virginia Tech Hokies. The Wildcats started slow, but ended winning 73-57. This year should be a good year for both the Jayhawks and Wildcats and if your're like me you have two dates circled on your calendar. The first date is when the Wildcats visit Lawrence and take on the Jayhawks on January 29th at 7:00 pm EST. On Valentines Day, the Jayhawks return the visit to Manhattan to take on the Wildcats at 9:00 pm EST. This year should be an exciting year in college basketball in the Sunflower State. I like college basketball and the Sunflower Showdown has always been special. I'll will still be rooting for my KSU Wildcats. RE/MAX sells more homes than any other real estate company. For a reason...should we talk? Let us know what you think or add to our blog by writing a comment. Do you have a real estate question for the Real Estate Wizards? Blog post written by the Dowell Taggart Team of RE/MAX Best Associates Find out why you should contact the Dowell Taggart Team for your Kansas City real estate needs . . . .      We can help you with online real estate tools that less than 10 Kansas City REALTORS use      Search 21,000 homes for sale in Kansas City including foreclosures, short sales, luxury homes and more . . .      Learn how to save on the real estate commission      Learn how we can help you save money  . . . Go to our Kansas City Real Estate Website! Posted Tuesday, November 16, 2010 9:30 PM from Online Kansas City | 0 Comments Filed under: Sports, KSU, KU, Basketball

• The next couple week maybe the last time you’ll see an incredible high school athlete play football in Kansas - Gardner, Kansas Trailblazers Football

  The Blue Valley Tigers have the rematch they’ve been battling for. The Tigers will face 5A No. 1 Gardner-Edgerton for the second time in four weeks after both teams advanced Friday night. Blue Valley fought a road test and won over Topeka Seaman. Gardner-Edgerton comes into the battle, as expected, breezing past Bonner Springs and Shawnee Heights. As for the Blue Valley Tigers, they get the rematch they have wanted with Gardner-Edgerton’s Trailblazers. Will they be able to stop the undefeated Trailblazers and their three headed rushing attack featuring the state’s premier football recruit, quarterback Bubba Starling, at their home in Overland Park, Kansas? At couple weeks back at the Gardner-Edgerton Trailblazers football stadium a writer stated,” I know a lot about football and Gardner looks incredible. I’ve never seen a high school kid run and throw a ball like Bubba. The next couple week maybe the last time you’ll see an incredible high school athlete play football in Kansas.” Hope to see you at the game Friday at 7:00 at the Blue Valley Tigers football stadium. GARDNER EDGERTON TRAILBLAZERS VS BLUE VALLEY 7 p.m., FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 19 AT BLUE VALLEY The Gardner Edgerton Football Team will be playing Blue Valley High School on Friday, November 19, at Blue Valley. No passes of any kind will be accepted for this KSHSAA sponsored event. All district employees who wish to attend this game must purchase a ticket. Bracket Link: www.kshsaa.org/Public/Football/PDF/Brackets/5A.htm Hosting Formula: www.kshsaa.org/Public/Football/PDF/Playoff Host Formula.pdf RE/MAX sells more homes than any other real estate company. For a reason...should we talk? Let us know what you think or add to our blog by writing a comment. Do you have a real estate question for the Real Estate Wizards? Blog post written by the Dowell Taggart Team of RE/MAX Best Associates Find out why you should contact the Dowell Taggart Team for your Kansas City real estate needs . . . .      We can help you with online real estate tools that less than 10 Kansas City REALTORS use      Search 21,000 homes for sale in Kansas City including foreclosures, short sales, luxury homes and more . . .      Learn how to save on the real estate commission      Learn how we can help you save money  . . . Go to our Kansas City Real Estate Website! Posted Tuesday, November 16, 2010 3:35 PM from Online Kansas City | 0 Comments Filed under: Sports, Gardner

• First Step in Hiring an Overland Park Real Estate Marketing Consultant - Is Hope Part of the Plan?

  Great referral partner for me is an outstanding Financial Planner over in Blue Springs, Missouri....He has a client who is going to sell and they are dealing with some guy named Stan who is in his 70's with a large local brokerage; Seller’s wife graduated with Stan from high school. Financial Planner is gently trying the get them to at least call myself or Chris. Today over lunch he explained to the Sellers that when they are working with a Overland Park Realtor they are, in effect, hiring a Real Estate marketing consultant who works for them. I encouraged him to get Stan's marketing plan in writing and forward it to me. I'll just bet he has the “classic” 4 part marketing plan; 1.) Put a sign out front 2.) Put it on MLS 3.)Put an ad in the newspaper 4.) Wait and hope “Hope”?  Is that a plan? Our marketing plan starts 10 business days prior to the MLS ever seeing your data, or your photos.... And runs like a rabid freight train until your home is CLOSED. A professional Real Estate Marketing Company generates interest, drives activity and delivers results....Should we talk? RE/MAX sells more homes than any other real estate company. For a reason...should we talk? Let us know what you think or add to our blog by writing a comment. Do you have a real estate question for the Real Estate Wizards? Blog post written by the Dowell Taggart Team of RE/MAX Best Associates Find out why you should contact the Dowell Taggart Team for your Kansas City real estate needs . . . .      We can help you with online real estate tools that less than 10 Kansas City REALTORS use      Search 21,000 homes for sale in Kansas City including foreclosures, short sales, luxury homes and more . . .      Learn how to save on the real estate commission      Learn how we can help you save money  . . . Go to our Kansas City Real Estate Website! Posted Tuesday, November 16, 2010 11:04 AM from Online Kansas City | 0 Comments Filed under: Overland Park Real Estate, Home Seller

• Five Guys Burgers and Fries Opens at Oak Park Mall in Overland Park, Kansas Today

  Five Guys Burgers and Fries Opens at Oak Park Mall in Overland Park, Kansas Today Five Guys Burgers and Fries Five Guys Burgers and Fries is now open in Oak Park Mall. The location, at 11331 W. 95th St., Overland Park, is on the north side of the mall next to the American Girl store. This is the second Overland Park location and the sixth Kansas City area Five Guys location. The other locations are in Olathe, Lee's Summit, Liberty and Ward Parkway Center. The other Overland Park, KS. location is located at 12025 Metcalf Ave. Five Guys was recently rated as one of the most popular fast food chains by Zagat Survey and for having the best hamburger. If you’re looking for a tasty burger, you need to checkout Five Guys Burgers and Fries. RE/MAX sells more homes than any other real estate company. For a reason...should we talk? Let us know what you think or add to our blog by writing a comment. Do you have a real estate question for the Real Estate Wizards? Blog post written by the Dowell Taggart Team of RE/MAX Best Associates Find out why you should contact the Dowell Taggart Team for your Kansas City real estate needs . . . .      We can help you with online real estate tools that less than 10 Kansas City REALTORS use      Search 21,000 homes for sale in Kansas City including foreclosures, short sales, luxury homes and more . . .      Learn how to save on the real estate commission      Learn how we can help you save money  . . . Go to our Kansas City Real Estate Website! Posted Tuesday, November 16, 2010 7:32 AM from Online Kansas City | 0 Comments Filed under: Business Directory

• It is a Great time to buy a home in the Olathe, KS. Subdivision, Nottingham at Heritage Park! - Olathe Real Estate Stats

  Nottingham at Heritage Park Real Estate Market Stats Nottingham at Heritage Park is a subdivision In Olathe, Kansas Nottingham at Heritage Park Subdivision Real Estate Stats in Olathe, Kansas: FACT: The Nottingham at Heritage Park Subdivision is located just east of 159th and Blackbob. FACT: There is a 7.5 months supply of real estate inventory in the Nottingham at Heritage Park Subdivision. FACT: During the past 6 months, 4 homes have sold in the Nottingham at Heritage Park Subdivision. FACT: The highest sales price was $457,500 the past 6 months in the Nottingham at Heritage Park Subdivision. FACT: The average sales price of the 4 South Nottingham at Heritage Park Subdivision homes that have sold calculates to be $404,125. FACT: The average Nottingham at Heritage Park Subdivision home sold in 56 days! FACT: The real estate market in Nottingham at Heritage Park Subdivision is a Buyers Market - It is a great time to Buy! FACT: There are 5 homes for sale and 0 homes are currently under contract in the Nottingham at Heritage Park Subdivision. If you’re thinking about a move to or from the Nottingham at Heritage Park Subdivision or another area of Olathe, Kansas, would you prefer to review your real estate objectives with an amateur or a professional? When you'd prefer a professional opinion, let's talk.... Buying A Home In Nottingham at Heritage Park Selling A Home In Nottingham at Heritage Park Relocating to Olathe, Kansas? Nottingham at Heritage Park Subdivision real estate states supplied by the Dowell Taggart Team of RE/MAX Best Associates. Your Olathe, Kansas real estate specialist! If you would like real estate market stats for your subdivision, contact the Dowell Taggart Team of RE/MAX Best Associates. Subdivision Stats for your subdivision Real Estate Stats pulled from Heartland MLS and deemed reliable but not guaranteed; Check the post date for relevancy; Stats cover approximately the past 6 months of real estate market activity RE/MAX sells more homes than any other real estate company. For a reason...should we talk? Let us know what you think or add to our blog by writing a comment. Do you have a real estate question for the Real Estate Wizards? Blog post written by the Dowell Taggart Team of RE/MAX Best Associates Find out why you should contact the Dowell Taggart Team for your Kansas City real estate needs . . . .      We can help you with online real estate tools that less than 10 Kansas City REALTORS use      Search 21,000 homes for sale in Kansas City including foreclosures, short sales, luxury homes and more . . .      Learn how to save on the real estate commission      Learn how we can help you save money  . . . Go to our Kansas City Real Estate Website! Posted Tuesday, November 16, 2010 1:23 AM from Online Kansas City | 0 Comments Filed under: Stats, Nottingham at Heritage Park, Olathe Real Estate, 66062

• Last time Overland Park mortgage interest rates were this low . . .

  Last time Overland Park mortgage interest rates were this low....Dad had long sideburns, drove a van with fender flares....Mom went to Homecoming with a disco ball, BeeGees were big news.... Retro might come back...But interest rates are rising.... RE/MAX sells more homes than any other real estate company. For a reason...should we talk? Let us know what you think or add to our blog by writing a comment. Do you have a real estate question for the Real Estate Wizards? Blog post written by the Dowell Taggart Team of RE/MAX Best Associates Find out why you should contact the Dowell Taggart Team for your Kansas City real estate needs . . . .      We can help you with online real estate tools that less than 10 Kansas City REALTORS use      Search 21,000 homes for sale in Kansas City including foreclosures, short sales, luxury homes and more . . .      Learn how to save on the real estate commission      Learn how we can help you save money  . . . Go to our Kansas City Real Estate Website! Posted Monday, November 15, 2010 9:02 AM from Online Kansas City | 0 Comments Filed under: Financing, Overland Park Real Estate, Mortgage, Banking

• This is a Great Time to Sell in the Olathe, KS. Subdivision, Symphony Hills! Olathe Real Estate Stats

  Symphony Hills Real Estate Market Stats Symphony Hills is a subdivision In Olathe, Kansas As I review the the Symphony Hills Subdivision market statistics for the past 6 months, 35 homes were listed for sale, 10 homes were sold and 2 homes are currently under contract. The average sales price in the Symphony Hills Subdivision was $194,805 and the subdivision saw a price range variance of $167,700 to $220,000. If you'd like to know the reasons behind the wide range of values, find us at www.dowelltaggart.com, for an overview of the process we use to determine the value of your home. The Symphony Hills Subdivision is located Southeastern in Olathe, Kansas just north of 151st & Pflumm. Symphony Hills is served by the Blue Valley School District. Symphony Hills is a popular Olathe, Kansas subdivision and is located near dining, shopping and park amenities and near access to I-35 highway in Olathe. As an example, when comparing the 2 Active listings in Symphony Hills to the 6-month sales rate in the community, there’s a 1.2 month supply of inventory currently on the market. This means that Symphony Hills is in Seller's real estate market. A neutral real estate market is defined that when the real estate inventory takes 4-6 months to sell. A sellers market is defined when the real estate inventory takes less than 4 months to sell and a buyers market is when inventory takes 6 months or longer to sell. With the real estate market this may be a good time to Sell a home in the Symphony Hills subdivision. More Symphony Hills Real Estate Stats: The average current list price in the Symphony Hills Subdivision is of $207,475. The average list price is Above the 6 month average sales price. Homes in the Symphony Hills Subdivision seem to be priced a Little High right now. Unless the active homes have Superior features, the homes may be Overpriced.   Symphony Hills Subdivision Real Estate Stats in Olathe, Kansas: FACT: During the past 6 months, 10 homes have sold in the Symphony Hills. FACT: The highest sales price was $220,000 the past 6 months in the Symphony Hills. FACT: The average sales price of the 10 South Symphony Hills homes that have sold calculates to be $194,805. FACT: The average Symphony Hills home sold in 44 days! More Symphony Hills Stats: If you’re thinking about a move to or from the Symphony Hills Subdivision or another area of Olathe, Kansas, would you prefer to review your real estate objectives with an amateur or a professional? When you'd prefer a professional opinion, let's talk.... Buying A Home In Symphony Hills Selling A Home In Symphony Hills Relocating to Olathe, Kansas? Symphony Hills Subdivision real estate states supplied by the Dowell Taggart Team of RE/MAX Best Associates. Your Olathe, Kansas real estate specialist! If you would like real estate market stats for your subdivision, contact the Dowell Taggart Team of RE/MAX Best Associates. Subdivision Stats for your subdivision Real Estate Stats pulled from Heartland MLS and deemed reliable but not guaranteed; Check the post date for relevancy; Stats cover approximately the past 6 months of real estate market activity RE/MAX sells more homes than any other real estate company. For a reason...should we talk? Let us know what you think or add to our blog by writing a comment. Do you have a real estate question for the Real Estate Wizards? Blog post written by the Dowell Taggart Team of RE/MAX Best Associates Find out why you should contact the Dowell Taggart Team for your Kansas City real estate needs . . . .      We can help you with online real estate tools that less than 10 Kansas City REALTORS use      Search 21,000 homes for sale in Kansas City including foreclosures, short sales, luxury homes and more . . .      Learn how to save on the real estate commission      Learn how we can help you save money  . . . Go to our Kansas City Real Estate Website! Posted Friday, November 12, 2010 10:12 AM from Online Kansas City | 0 Comments Filed under: Stats, Symphony Hills, Olathe Real Estate, 66062

• It is a Great Time to Buy a Home in the Palisade Park Subdivision - Olathe, KS. Real Estate Stats

  Palisade Park Real Estate Market Stats Palisade Park is a subdivision In Olathe, Kansas As I review the the Palisade Park Subdivision market statistics for the past 6 months, 29 homes were listed for sale, 9 homes were sold and 3 homes are currently under contract. The average sales price in the Palisade Park Subdivision was $210,167 and the subdivision saw a price range variance of $172,500 to $280,000. If you'd like to know the reasons behind the wide range of values, find us at www.dowelltaggart.com, for an overview of the process we use to determine the value of your home. The Palisade Park Subdivision is located in South Central Olathe, Kansas just east of 159th & Ridgeview. Palisade Park is served by the Olathe School District. Palisade Park is a popular Olathe, Kansas subdivision and is located near dining, shopping and park amenities and near access to I-35 highway in Olathe. As an example, when comparing the 17 Active listings in Palisade Park to the 6-month sales rate in the community, there’s a 11.3 month supply of inventory currently on the market. This means that Palisade Park is in Buyer's real estate market. A neutral real estate market is defined that when the real estate inventory takes 4-6 months to sell. A sellers market is defined when the real estate inventory takes less than 4 months to sell and a buyers market is when inventory takes 6 months or longer to sell. With the real estate market this may be a good time to Buy a home in the Palisade Park subdivision. More Palisade Park Real Estate Stats: The average current list price in the Palisade Park Subdivision is of $231,418. The average list price is Above the 6 month average sales price. Homes in the Palisade Park Subdivision seem to be priced a Little High right now. Unless the active homes have Superior features, the homes may be Overpriced.   Palisade Park Subdivision Real Estate Stats in Olathe, Kansas: FACT: During the past 6 months, 9 homes have sold in the Palisade Park. FACT: The highest sales price was $280,000 the past 6 months in the Palisade Park. FACT: The average sales price of the 9 South Palisade Park homes that have sold calculates to be $210,167. FACT: The average Palisade Park  home sold in 69 days! More Palisade Park Stats: If you’re thinking about a move to or from the Palisade Park Subdivision or another area of Olathe, Kansas, would you prefer to review your real estate objectives with an amateur or a professional? When you'd prefer a professional opinion, let's talk.... Buying A Home In Palisade Park Selling A Home In Palisade Park Relocating to Olathe, Kansas? Palisade Park Subdivision real estate states supplied by the Dowell Taggart Team of RE/MAX Best Associates. Your Olathe, Kansas real estate specialist! If you would like real estate market stats for your subdivision, contact the Dowell Taggart Team of RE/MAX Best Associates. Subdivision Stats for your subdivision Real Estate Stats pulled from Heartland MLS and deemed reliable but not guaranteed; Check the post date for relevancy; Stats cover approximately the past 6 months of real estate market activity RE/MAX sells more homes than any other real estate company. For a reason...should we talk? Let us know what you think or add to our blog by writing a comment. Do you have a real estate question for the Real Estate Wizards? Blog post written by the Dowell Taggart Team of RE/MAX Best Associates Find out why you should contact the Dowell Taggart Team for your Kansas City real estate needs . . . .      We can help you with online real estate tools that less than 10 Kansas City REALTORS use      Search 21,000 homes for sale in Kansas City including foreclosures, short sales, luxury homes and more . . .      Learn how to save on the real estate commission      Learn how we can help you save money  . . . Go to our Kansas City Real Estate Website! Posted Wednesday, November 10, 2010 10:32 AM from Online Kansas City | 0 Comments Filed under: Stats, Palisade Park, Olathe Real Estate, 66062

• It is a Great Time to Buy a Home in the Olathe, KS. Subdivision, Walnut Creek! It is a Buyer's Real Estate Market

  Walnut Creek Real Estate Market Stats Walnut Creek is a subdivision In Olathe, Kansas As I review the the Walnut Creek Subdivision market statistics for the past 6 months, 14 homes were listed for sale, 7 homes were sold and 0 homes are currently under contract. The average sales price in the Walnut Creek Subdivision was $213,064 and the subdivision saw a price range variance of $195,000 to $229,000. If you'd like to know the reasons behind the wide range of values, find us at www.dowelltaggart.com, for an overview of the process we use to determine the value of your home. The Walnut Creek Subdivision is located in South Central Olathe, Kansas just north of 159th & Ridgeview. Walnut Creek is served by the Olathe School District. Walnut Creek is a popular Olathe, Kansas subdivision and is located near dining, shopping and park amenities and near access to I-35 highway in Olathe. As an example, when comparing the 7 Active listings in Walnut Creek to the 6-month sales rate in the community, there’s a 6 month supply of inventory currently on the market. This means that Walnut Creek is in Buyer's real estate market. A neutral real estate market is defined that when the real estate inventory takes 4-6 months to sell. A sellers market is defined when the real estate inventory takes less than 4 months to sell and a buyers market is when inventory takes 6 months or longer to sell. With the real estate market this may be a good time to Buy a home in the Walnut Creek subdivision. More Walnut Creek Real Estate Stats: The average current list price in the Walnut Creek Subdivision is of $227,829. The average list price is Above the 6 month average sales price. Homes in the Walnut Creek Subdivision seem to be priced a Little High right now. Unless the active homes have Superior features, the homes may be Overpriced.   Walnut Creek Subdivision Real Estate Stats in Olathe, Kansas: FACT: During the past 6 months, 7 homes have sold in the Walnut Creek. FACT: The highest sales price was $229,000 the past 6 months in the Walnut Creek. FACT: The average sales price of the 12 South Walnut Creek homes that have sold calculates to be $227,829. FACT: The average Walnut Creek  home sold in 84 days! More Walnut Creek Stats: If you’re thinking about a move to or from the Walnut Creek Subdivision or another area of Olathe, Kansas, would you prefer to review your real estate objectives with an amateur or a professional? When you'd prefer a professional opinion, let's talk.... Buying A Home In Walnut Creek Selling A Home In Walnut Creek Relocating to Olathe, Kansas? Walnut Creek Subdivision real estate states supplied by the Dowell Taggart Team of RE/MAX Best Associates. Your Olathe, Kansas real estate specialist! If you would like real estate market stats for your subdivision, contact the Dowell Taggart Team of RE/MAX Best Associates. Subdivision Stats for your subdivision Real Estate Stats pulled from Heartland MLS and deemed reliable but not guaranteed; Check the post date for relevancy; Stats cover approximately the past 6 months of real estate market activity RE/MAX sells more homes than any other real estate company. For a reason...should we talk? Let us know what you think or add to our blog by writing a comment. Do you have a real estate question for the Real Estate Wizards? Blog post written by the Dowell Taggart Team of RE/MAX Best Associates Find out why you should contact the Dowell Taggart Team for your Kansas City real estate needs . . . .      We can help you with online real estate tools that less than 10 Kansas City REALTORS use      Search 21,000 homes for sale in Kansas City including foreclosures, short sales, luxury homes and more . . .      Learn how to save on the real estate commission      Learn how we can help you save money  . . . Go to our Kansas City Real Estate Website! Posted Monday, November 08, 2010 10:06 AM from Online Kansas City | 0 Comments Filed under: Stats, Walnut Creek, Olathe Real Estate, 66062

• Will Spending Thousands of Dollars on the New Energy Guidelines Help My Kansas City Home Sell Faster?

  More about the Cap and Trade And, the EPA administrator is authorized to raise the standards every year, even above the automatic energy efficiency increases built into the Act. The EPA administrator, appointed by the President, will run the Cap & Trade program (AKA the “American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009″) and is authorized to make any future changes to the regulations and standards he/she alone determines to be in the government’s best interest. Requirements are set low initially so the bill will pass Congress; then the Administrator can set much tougher new standards every year. The Act itself contains annual required increases in energy efficiency for private and commercial residences and buildings. However, the EPA administrator can set higher standards at any time. Sect. 202 Building Retrofit Program mandates a national retrofit program to increase the energy efficiency of all existing homes across America.