Good Morning and Happy Hump Day!  There are currently 55 Foreclosures on the Market in Johnson County Kansas.    Did you know our Buyer Agents Services are Free to You the Homebuyer?  It is imperative in today's market that you have a buyer agent.  A buyer's agent will sit down with you and assess what you are looking for in a home; will take you out and show you homes, will  inform you about today's mortage & lending changes, what lenders to stay away from, help you with inspections, give advice on repairs to ask for, help you with negotiations and offers, provide comparative properties so that you will know what offering price to arrive at.                                               There are many aspects of your purchase that go on behind the scenes, and if you have a good buyer's... 02/23/2010

Good news for the Shawnee, KS area...it looks like home listing prices may finally be on the rise!  Home prices are currently listing at an average of $268, 347 (w/e 1.20.10), an increase of 0.7% ($1888).  The chart below will show you the activity since December 2009: The median sales price for homes in ZIP code 66226 in Shawnee from Sep 09 to Nov 09 was $179,642 based on 5 sales. Compared to the same period one year ago, the median sales price increased 0%, or $179,642, and the number of sales increased 0%. Average price per square foot for homes in 66226 was $98, an increase of 0% compared to the same period last year. There are currently 152 resale and new homes in ZIP code 66226 on Trulia, including 1 open house, as well as 17 homes in the pre-foreclosure, auction, or bank-owned st... 02/06/2010

CAR SEAT INSTALLATION You might think that anyone who can read an instruction manual and follow directions could install a car seat.  In reality, though, it's not so easy.  And accordin to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, as many as 85 percent of all car seats are improperly installed. THE LOWDOWN ON CAR SAFETY SEATS  Unless you plan to walk home from the hospital, you'll need a car seat to take your baby home.  By law in all 50 states your child up to 18 months of age must be properly restrained in a car seat, most states have laws requiring car seats until a child is a least 3 years old.  HELP IS HERE Your local Shawnee, KS State Farm Agent, Nick Reed is a certified child passenger safety technician.  Nick can inspect your child safety seat and show you how to corre... 02/05/2010

Thinking about a purchasing a brand new home? From Western Shawnee to Olathe, Overland Park and more, the Kansas City area offers a great selection of home builders...Rodrock, Pulte, James III, True Builders, Duckworth, and J.S. Robinson to name a few.  Many people just wander into a new home model center to look and before you know it, you've fallen in love with a floorplan. Before making such a large purchase, however, please consider the benefit of having an experienced agent working on your behalf at no cost to you. Pickett Property Group can offer information on the builder, past negotiations, neighborhood values, factors impacting prices, and on competitive alternatives. We can also help negotiate the best deal for your money, review contract terms and facilitate the smoothest pos... 02/03/2010

I've talked to a few clients in the past few weeks that have mentioned how they would like to wait until Spring to list their homes.  And why not?  The holidays are far behind, the weather is nicer, and houses tend to look more welcoming when lawns are green and flowers are in bloom.  However, there is no time like the present to list your house now and here are some of the main reasons why:1.  The First-time/Repeat Home Buyer Tax Credit:  The clock is ticking here, folks.  You must be under contract by April 30, 2010 in order to qualify.  That means as of today, there are only 87 days to get your piece of the pie!2.  Less Competition:  Because everyone has that "wait until Spring" mentality, there are fewer houses on the market this time of the year.  If your home is priced right and s... 02/02/2010

Shawnee Kansas, suburban Kansas City, Real Estate Market Update February 2nd, 2010 Shawnee KS is a large and growing city in suburban Kansas City with a bunch of homes for sale. Let's break down the Shawnee real estate market by price range. Shawnee KS homes for sale at $150,000 or less As of February 2nd, 2010 there are 62 Shawnee homes listed for sale in suburban Kansas City in Johnson County with an asking price of $150,000 or less. Since August 1st, 2009 97 single family homes have sold in Shawnee, KS at $150,000 or less. Seller advantage helped by the tax credit and tax credit extension. Homes for sale in Shawnee KS from $150,000 to $225,000 As of February 2nd, 2010 there are 108 Shawnee homes listed for sale in suburban Kansas City in Johnson County with an asking price between $1... 02/02/2010

Living in Grey Oaks in Shawnee, KS, I've seen an increase in the number of existing homes that are available.  This, of course has increased the competition for the developer, who still has some existing specs available...not to mention plans to open the next phase soon.  I have several clients that are looking not only in Grey Oaks, but also in other developing communities as well, and they all ask...which is better, new or existing?  They both have their pluses and minuses, so it's really up to each individual buyer's preference, time frame, and goals.  From a developing, new community perspective, let's take a look at some of these: NewBuilding a new home offers flexibility to have things the way you like, but there are some possible drawbacks as well.  The most obvious benefit?  You... 01/28/2010

When a water heater goes out, the basement leaks or questions arise about tax credits for home improvements, many home owners face an immediate quandry.  Should they hire someone to fix it, replace it or do the work themselves?  Many times, it depends on what the first service person has to say or, how much the item or project costs or, at times, it just takes a simple leap of faith. Becoming a well-informed home owner has just become a whole lot easier with a new website called HouseLogic, a new go-to resource filled with everything you need to protect, maintain, and enhance the value of your home.  It's simple and easy to use.  Some examples include: Questions to ask before hiring a contractor When to make an insurance claim and when to skip it Signs of energy leaks Water-saving lands... 01/26/2010

I recently spent some time taking a look at the market statistics for my neighborhood, Grey Oaks.  Within the past 12 months, 15 homes sold.  The average sales price was $320,087, with a subdivision price range variance from $240,000-$399,900.*Currently, we're looking at about 5.4 months worth of inventory in this area, which is still below the national average of 6.5 months, according to the National Association of Realtors.  Right now, the average current list price is $376,679...which is approximately $56,000 higher than the average sales price seen over the past 12 months.*Grey Oaks is a popular subdivision in Western Shawnee.  A Rodrock Community, it features: Award-Winning Schools in the DeSoto School District (an in-community elementary school and a middle school and high school ... 01/22/2010

HUD homes are a great way to purchase a home in Shawnee Kansas. HUD homes in Shawnee Kansas only require a $100 down payment, not only that but HUD allows for 3% of the purchase price for your closing costs. If you are a first time home buyer you may also qualify for the first time home buyers $8,000 tax credit. $100 down payment low or no closing costs and an $8,000 tax credit, sounds pretty good to me. Currently there are 3 HUD homes available in Shawnee Kansas 3 bedrooms 2 baths Ranch $108,000 3 bedroom 1 bath Split Level $172,000 4 bedroom 2.5 bath Split Level $157,000  These homes sell quickly and are sold on a daily or weekly auction basis. Contact the Russell Home Team today at 913-681-1383 or use the links below to see all HUD homes for sale and to get more information on the $8... 12/09/2009

  According to Safe Kids USA, over a recent five-year period, twice as many child pedestrians have been killed on Halloween as have been killed on average throughout the rest of the year in the United States.  With the days getting shorter, children are likely to be trick-or-treating in the dark when it is harder to see them and the excitement of the holiday can make everyone less cautious.  Remember to drive safe on Halloween Night!  * Nick Reed State Farm *  (913) 422-0123 * 6632 Monticello Rd, Shawnee KS 66226* 10/29/2009

Shawnee Kansas, suburban Kansas City, Real Estate Market Update August 28th, 2009 Shawnee is a large and growing city in Kansas with a plethora of homes for sale. Let's break down the Shawnee real estate market by price range. How many Shawnee homes are for sale in Shawnee at $150,000 or less? As of August 28th, 2009 there are 54 Shawnee homes listed for sale in suburban Kansas City in Johnson County with an asking price of $150,000 or less. Since April 1st, 2009 88 single family homes have sold in Shawnee, KS at $150,000 or less. This would suggest a slight seller advantage at this point. Demand is likely boosted by the summer rush and the $8000 tax credit - part of the stimulus package. How many homes are for sale in Shawnee from $150,000 to $225,000? As of August 28th, 2009 there are... 08/28/2009

Shawnee Kansas, suburban Kansas City, Real Estate Market Update August 6th, 2009 Shawnee is a large and growing city in Kansas with a plethora of homes for sale. Let's break down the Shawnee real estate market by price range. How many Shawnee homes are for sale in Shawnee at $150,000 or less? As of August 6th, 2009 there are 53 homes listed for sale in Shawnee Kansas, suburban Kansas City in Johnson County listed at $150,000 or less. Since March 1st, 2009 88 single family homes have sold in Shawnee, KS at $150,000 or less. This would suggest a slight seller advantage at this point. Demand is likely boosted by the summer rush and the $8000 tax credit. How many homes are for sale in Shawnee from $150,000 to $250,000? As of August 6th, 2009 there are 179 homes listed for sale in Shawnee Ka... 08/07/2009

Sold 14316 W 58th Terrace Shawnee Kansas 66216 $289,500 Lakeview Estates Subdivision This is truly a beautiful home with so much to offer. Located in the Lakeview Estates subdivision this 4 bedroom 5 bath home is superb. The mature landscaping has tons of trees a large grass area and a private back area with firepit. The interior features large rooms including formal living room, formal dining room, family room with fireplace and a hearth room that can double as a study. The full finished basement feature a large area for a pool table and a cozy wine bistro nook. Priced at $289,500 is below county appraised value. Call The Russell Home Team today for a private showing at 913-681-1383 or www.SearchjocoHomes.com 06/25/2009

****Just Listed**** Are you looking for a home in Shawnee Kansas but lack the 3.5% down payment? Well you are in luck, HUD just listed 2 new home that only require a $100 down payment. Not only that but HUD allows for 3% of the purchase price to be used for closing costs. 2 bedroom 1 bath $100,000 1 bedroom 1 bath condo $43,000 Open bidding ends soon so call today to schedule a showing at 913-681-1383 Are you a first time buyer? You may qualify for an $8,000 first time home buyer tax credit. for more information use the links below or visit our website www.SearchjocoHomes.com The Russell Home Team are HUD registered brokers in Kansas & Missouri, we can be reached at 913-681-1383 or info@RussellHomeTeam.com or www.SearchjocoHomes.com 06/17/2009

Our custom home remodel of 6644 Larsen is moving along reletively on schedule minus a few minor hiccups with the city.  Chances are that even if this home wasn't being done as a custom remodel we still would've done this house as a flip.  As you can see here the exterior paint has already been completed. On the inside of this house we're working on the finishing up sheetrock, painting, and electric. I really love how much the kitchen/dining/ living area has been opened up in this house. If all goes well we should have more updates next week. This Is Where We Started More Information On 6644 Larsen Kansas City Homes For Sale Members Of Glad Heart Realty 06/15/2009

Do you want to buy a home in Shawnee Kansas but can afford the 3.5% down payment? Well then you should take a look at this Shawnee HUD home. Listed at $86,400 this home has 2 bedroom and 1 bath. HUD foreclosures only require a $100 down payment and HUD will pay 3% of the purchase price towards your down payment. Are you a first time home buyer? If so, you may qualify for an up to $8,000 tax rebate. Available to first time buyers and buyers who have not owned a home in the last 3 years. This tax rebate expire December 1st 2009. The open bidding period on this shawnee HUD home ends on June 7th so don't wait to call for a showing. Call the Russell Home Team today at 913-681-1383, we are HUD registered brokers for Kansas & Missouri To see all homes for sale in Johnson County and to get more... 06/04/2009

Whether it's the work of an elaborate theft rings or random individual crime, auto theft is big business.  On average, according to the Insurance Information Institute (III) a vehicle is stolen every 29 seconds in the United States at a cost of about $7.4 billion a year in 2007.  Insurance for theft is included in the comprehensive part of your auto insurance policy that also covers fire, vandalism and weather related damage.  The number of insured cars stolen and their cost directly affect insurance premiums.  By taking a few precautions you can reduce the chances of having your vehicle stolen. Always remove your keys from your parked vehicle. Park with your front wheels turned sharply to the right or left and apply the emergency brake.  This will make it difficult for a thief to tow y... 06/04/2009

Many of our dreams are dependent upon the choices we make throughout our lives.  That's why planning carefully and making smart choices will help ensure you realize your financial dreams and goals. Are you saving for a child's college eduction or a new house?  Dreaming about starting a new business or hoping to retire by age 55? Whatever your financial goals and dreams may be, you need a road map-an action plan-to help reach your destination.  If you have a road map outlining how you'll achieve your financial goals, how long has it been since you reviewed it?  As your family circumstances and finances change, the plans you have in place may need to be adjusted- to make sure you're still headed in the right direction.  If you don't have an action plan in place, you may be asking yourself... 06/03/2009

Lakepointe Shawnee Kansas Housing Market Update May 30th, 2009 How many homes are for sale in Lakepointe Shawnee, KS? As of May 30th 2009, there are 10 homes listed for sale in Lakepointe, Shawnee Kansas 66227. The listing prices range from $150,000 for some half duplexes to $360,000 for a four bedroom two story plan. How fast are the homes selling and how much are Lakepointe homes selling for? In the last 6 months 6 homes have sold and closed. During the last six months the homes in Lakepointe Shawnee KS 66217 have sold in the range of $177,000 to $290,00. What is the sales trend for Arlington Park? The there were six closed sales between May 30, 2008 and Nov 30,2008. There were also six closed sales from Nov 30, 2008 to May 30, 2009, so demand seems to be fairly constant for the last ... 05/30/2009