Tuesday, August 31, 2010

Market Stats for Western Shawnee 66226

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

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

Saturday, August 28, 2010

Love to bike? Check out the Tour de Shawnee!

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

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

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

Friday, August 27, 2010

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

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

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

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

For more information, check out Heartland Habitat ReStore.

Thursday, August 26, 2010

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

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

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

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

No Cost to you!


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

The Right Home

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

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

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

Closing Process

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

Tuesday, August 24, 2010

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

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

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

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

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

And did I mention it's FREE?

Monday, August 23, 2010

Students of USD 232 in Johnson County, KS are Making the Grade

Good news!  If you're considering a move into the DeSoto School District (USD 232) or are already a part of it, your child's education will be in good hands.  Students of USD 232 continue to score above state and national peers on the ACT assessment.  The district received a composite average of 22.3 on the 2010 college entrance exam.  This score is five tenths of a point lower than last year, but the district attributes this to the increase in the number of students taking the exam.  There was a 12% increase over last year.  You can see the individual high school results below:


ACT Scores
Composite Average
All Students
2010
2009 
2008
2007
USD #232
22.3
 22.8
22.9
22.7
Mill Valley High School
22.4
 23.4
23.0
22.8
De Soto High School
22.1
 21.5
22.6
22.5
State of Kansas
22.0 
 21.9
22.0
21.9
National
21.0
 21.1
21.1
21.2



If you're considering the DeSoto School District as a part of your child's educational future, there are many homes currently for sale throughout Western Shawnee.  To see a list of what is available in Crimson Ridge, Brittany Heights, Brittany Valley, Lakepointe, Woodland Park, Woodsonia, Monticello Farms, Greens of Chapel Creek, Greenview Ridge, or Estates of Green View Ridge, email, text, or give us a call.  As a resident of Grey Oaks, Pickett Property Group is your Western Shawnee expert.

Sunday, August 22, 2010

Market Stats for Grey Oaks in Western Shawnee, KS


Grey Oaks in Shawnee, KS has been busy in terms of real estate activity this summer.  If you're looking to be a part of this great neighborhood, there's still quite a few to choose from.  Grey Oaks currently has 12 active homes listed for sale ranging in price from $270,000 to $399,950, four to five bedroom floorplans for the picking.  In the past 90 days alone, 8 homes have sold ($300,000 to $529,666) with an average days on market of 128 days, which is great for this price range.

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

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

Friday, August 20, 2010

Things to Do in KC: Restaurant Week in Kansas City's Power & Light District

If you happen to love food as much as I do, then you do not want to miss Restaurant Week in Kansas City's Power and Light District.  Starting today, you can take advantage of some great deals on lunch and dinner.  These promotions will last for ten days-through August 29th.  The offers include:

  • Lunch:  2 course meals priced at $10
  • Dinner:  3 course meals priced at $25 or $30
  • Dining Gifts:  each guest ordering the Restaurant Week meals will receive a complimentary gift card with each visit to use at a later date at the participating restaurant ($5 for lunch; $10 for dinner)
The restaurants that are participating in this offer include:
801 Chophouse

Bristol Seafood Grill

The Peachtree Restaurant

Fran’s Restaurant

Kobe Japanese Steak & Seafood

Johnny’s Tavern

Lucky Strike Lanes

Genghis Grill

Flying Saucer

Gordon Biersch Brewery

Maker’s Mark Bourbon House & Lounge

McFadden’s Sports Saloon

Raglan Road Irish Pub

Pizza Bar

Tengo Sed Cantina

Ted’s Montana Grill

Famous Dave’s Barbeque



For more information, get complete details here!

Thursday, August 19, 2010

FHA to Increase Annual Mortgage Insurance Premiums

Come September 7th, the FHA will be increasing the annual mortgage insurance premiums for FHA loans to 0.85% or 0.9%, depending on the loan-to-value ratio of the loan.  In addition, the upfront mortgage insurance premium will be reduced to 1.0%.  In most cases this will result in an increase of $38/month for the average homebuyer using an FHA loan.  Why the increase?  According to the FHA, the fees are necessary to help replenish the FHA capital reserves fund and to ensure the continued availability of the FHA loan program.

With all the news regarding the FHA and interest rates and loans to save homes from foreclosure, it will be interesting to see how this all plays out by the end of the year.

Tuesday, August 17, 2010

Kansas City Market Report for July 2010

The numbers are out and overall, July brought what we as Realtors expected.  With the expiration of the tax credit, home sales dropped.  New homes decreased 67% from last month and existing homes decreased 39% from last year and 33% from last month.

However...we are starting to see home prices increase, which is excellent news.  The increase is slight, but we'll take it.  The average new home price for July is 7% higher at $331,567 than the same time last year.  Most counties saw an increase in average sales price for existing homes this month over the same month last year.

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

Sunday, August 15, 2010

K-7 and Johnson Drive Interchange Project Update for August

Good news if you're not a fan of the 47th Street Detour around the K-7 & Johnson Drive intersection...The Silverheel Street Spur located via Clear Creek Parkway south of the interchange project is now OPEN to all traffic.  The Silverheel Street Spur will provide an additional detour route, either to Clear Creek Parkway or you can continue on to Woodsonia, which will give you easy, quick access to the retail shops and restaurants in the Woodsonia West Shopping Plaza.  To view an aerial map of this route and others available during construction on the interchange project, click here.   Purple Detour signs and arrows will be installed early this week (week of August 16), though some are up already.  Drivers will be able to detour via Clear Creek Parkway to Silverheel Street to Woodsonia Drive.

Friday, August 13, 2010

Market Stats for Woodland Park in Shawnee, KS

Today, I'm going to wrap up the week with a summary of the market performance in the Woodland Park subdivision in Shawnee, KS.

Woodland Park has seen quite a bit of activity this summer.  And with schools starting today and next week (for Kindergartners), there are still several available homes to choose from if you're looking for something in Western Shawnee.  Woodland Park currently has 7 active homes listed for sale ranging in price from $169,975 to $190,000, three to four bedrooms/2+ baths available.  Five of these active listings have been on the market for more than 130 days so far, which is normal for this price range.  However, in the past 90 days, 5 homes have sold...ranging from $153,900 to $193,000 with an average of only 37 days on market!!  This is a great location and when the price is right, these homes will move.

View Larger Map

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

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

Thursday, August 12, 2010

Market Stats for Brittany Heights in Shawnee, KS

This past week, I've been going over the market stats of some of the communities in Western Shawnee for the past three months or so.  As a resident of Grey Oaks, I cover my community quite a bit, but wanted to share what's happening around me.  Tuesday, I covered summer market stats for Woodsonia and yesterday, I reviewed Monticello Farms.  Today, I'm taking a peek at Brittany Heights.  


Brittany Heights has had a very productive summer.  And with schools starting this week and next, there are still several available homes to choose from if you're looking in this area.  Brittany Heights currently has 4 active homes listed for sale ranging in price from $186,950 to $234,900, three to four bedrooms available.  In the past 90 days, 5 homes have sold...ranging from $169,000 to $242,500 and averaging 108 days on market, which is great for this price point and area.

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

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

Wednesday, August 11, 2010

Market Stats for Monticello Farms in Shawnee, KS



In continuing with the summer market stats for the Shawnee, KS area, today I'm looking at Monticello Farms.  Monticello Farms, a Rodrock Community, had a cool summer in terms of real estate.  Even though a couple of homes sold in the past four months, there is still a handful of available homes to choose from.  Monticello Farms currently has 5 active homes listed for sale ranging in price from $185,000 to $254,950, three to five bedrooms available.  In the past 120 days alone, only 2 homes have sold with an average days on market of 80 days, which is good for this price point.

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

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

Tuesday, August 10, 2010

Woodsonia Market Stats in Shawnee, KS

Woodsonia in Shawnee, KS saw its fair share of real estate activity this summer.  If you're looking to be a part of this great neighborhood, there's still a few to choose from.  Woodsonia currently has 5 active homes listed for sale ranging in price from $199,900 to $245,000, four bedrooms with 2-3 baths available.  In the past 90 days alone, 5 homes have sold with an average days on market of 47 days, which is great for this price range.

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

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

Monday, August 9, 2010

Possible Relief for Underwater Homeowners...FHA Short Refinance Option

Whether you're upside down, over your head, or in the FHA's eyes "underwater" in your home mortgage, the future may look a little brighter come September.

The FHA released details recently on its Short Refinance option to help those homeowners who owe more than their home is worth.  Starting September 7, 2010, the FHA will offer certain "underwater" non-FHA borrowers the chance to qualify for a new FHA-insured mortgage...as long as you are current on your existing mortgage and the lender agrees to write off at least 10% of the unpaid principal of the first mortgage.  In addition to that, you must also meet the following criteria:


  • Must qualify for new loan under FHA underwriting requirements
  • Must have a credit score equal or greater than 500
  • The property must be the homeowner's primary residence
  • The refinanced FHA loan must have a loan-to-value ratio of no more than 97.75%
The program is meant to reach out to those individuals that fell "underwater" due to the large declines in home values in their local markets, it should provide some much needed relief and help the government stabilize the market through the next two years.

To see if you may be eligible, contact your lender or mortgage professional.

Sunday, August 8, 2010

Join the Home Depot Garden Club

Have you heard of the Home Depot Garden Club?




This site is dedicated to all those born with green thumbs and those hoping to get one.  As a member you get unlimited access to expert advice, time-saving tips specific to your region of the country,  and money saving offers and coupons delivered right to your inbox.  It's filled with great advice and as well as the latest and greatest in landscaping, gardening, and outdoor living.  And the coupons aren't too shabby either...in the past, I've received coupons for Buy One Get One Free Rose Bushes and Houseplants, and $$ Off Weed Killers and Pest Controls.

Joining is easy and best of all...it's FREE!

Saturday, August 7, 2010

Open House 8/8- Adorable Bungalow in West Plaza/Westwood Park area...Come Say Hi!

So you're in the market for a 2 bedroom, ready to move-in, bungalow style home within walking distance to The Plaza and Westwood Park areas?



Come beat the heat and check out this gem yourself tomorrow, Sunday, August 8th.  From noon-4pm, I'll be there to share info about the home, community, and answer any questions you may have.


Enjoy a seat on the front porch, take a peek at the claw-foot tub, imagine entertaining in the fenced backyard...the possibilities in this home are endless.

And talk about location!  Minutes and easy access to the Country Club Plaza, Westwood Park, 39th Street District, Westport, Downtown, and I-35.


At $150,000, you have to see this one for yourself!  Stop by and say hello!

Thursday, August 5, 2010

A Must-See...Immaculate West Plaza Bungalow only $150,000!

A Must-See at $150,000!!!


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


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

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

Be sure to add this one to your list...Open House this Sunday, Aug 8th from Noon-4pm.  For more information on this house or others in the Holly Garden, West Plaza, Westwood area, contact us at PickettPropertyGroup.com today!

Wednesday, August 4, 2010

Grey Oaks in Shawnee, KS is still HOT!


Houses are still moving in the community of Grey Oaks in Shawnee, KS.  We just saw one house get an offer after only two days on the market!  If you're looking to be a part of this great neighborhood, there's still plenty to choose from.  Grey Oaks currently has 13 active homes listed for sale ranging in price from $270,000 to $399,950, four and five bedrooms for the picking.  In the past 90 days alone, 12 homes have sold with an average days on market of 241 days, which isn't too bad for this price range.

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

Tuesday, August 3, 2010

Pickett Property Group is Kansas City Real Estate at Your Fingertips

Last week, I found a new Yellow Pages book on my doorstep.  Sadly, I can't remember the last time I used a phone book.  And the fact that I still get a new one delivered to my door every year absolutely baffles me.  Talk about "old school".

Nowadays, it's all about getting what you want, how you want it, and when you want it or you'll find another avenue to get it.  How do I know this?  I live via instant gratification.  I communicate by email, Facebook, Twitter, and Blog.  I DVR my favorite TV shows so I can watch them at my leisure.  I can place calls, make dinner (ok, really I'm ordering a pizza), and access the internet, social media sites...yes, and even the Yellow Pages...all from my cell phone.

So that's why we do things a little different here at Pickett Property Group.  We offer:

  • Mobile Marketing:  When you list your house with us, we'll assign a special text number to your listing, so that buyers that happen to drive by can send a text and receive instant information regarding your property.
  • Text Messaging:  Got a question?  No problem!  You can text us 24/7 and we'll get back to you asap.
  • HAVE A QUESTION? TEXT US RIGHT NOW!
And, of course, you can Follow KCRealtorBrett on Twitter and Facebook, to name a few.

But to find out exactly what we can do for you, give us a call or text us!  ;) Whether you are looking to sell or looking to buy...whether it's Shawnee, Olathe, Prairie Village, or Overland Park...whether it's your first time or fifth, we'd love to show you how we are putting some fun back in Real Estate!

Monday, August 2, 2010

Market Stats for Amesbury Lake in Overland Park, KS

Even though I live in Grey Oaks in Western Shawnee, I do make it out to Amesbury Lake, another Rodrock community in Overland Park, every once in awhile.  I have some family and friends that live in the neighborhood and it's always fun to see and hear first hand what's happening in other parts of the Kansas City area.

Amesbury Lake is located off Quivira and 143rd Street, and includes Grayson Mills, Brookhaven and Windsor Ridge.

As of August 2nd, there are currently 11 active homes listed for sale, ranging from $265,000 to $349,500.  Five homes have sold in Amesbury Lake since May 1st, ranging from $222,000 to $343,000, with an average sale price of $280,700.

Amesbury Lake is a great community in Overland Park.  It features:

  • Biking and hiking trails
  • Quiet park
  • Stone entry monument with fountains
  • Neighborhood pool and cabana
  • Part of the Award Winning Blue Valley School District
  • Close to shopping, dining, and entertainment
  • Great highway access
To schedule an appointment to view any of the available homes for sale or to get  more information, text us or give us a call!  Pickett Property Group welcomes your questions and would love to help!