hOuse TOP view

First Time Homebuyer's Enjoy Real Estate Opportunities

Another indicator that this market has opportunities for consumers.  First Time Homebuyer market

KC Northland Helpful Website and Organization

Northland Neighborhoods has been around for a number of years and they just keep getting better and better.  On their website, you can get all kinds of good information on what's happening localling, as well as sign up for an e-newsletter.  Here is the link to their site:  CLICK HERE

Here Is a Good "Green" Article

I found this good piece from Lowe's. We've got a good " Green" company we can recommend.

Let me know if you find it of use.   Tips Green Your Home

Good Report For You

Check out this good report on what people are really thinking about the real estate industry:

RISMEDIA, June 24, 2008-Consumers are apparently optimistic about the future of the national real estate economy, according to a new survey conducted by Housing Predictor. Nearly 1 out of 2 polled say they believe the national real estate economy will improve within the next two years.

The online survey serves to show that despite the turmoil in the nation’s real estate markets, triggered by the credit crisis most believe conditions will improve in a short time span. Only 28% of all respondents said they believe it will take five years or longer for credit market conditions to improve the housing market.

Outlook Positive - Click for full story

5th Highest Year for Home Sales?

Really, it's true.  2007 was the 5th highest homes sales year on record, according to the National Association of Realtors, with just over 5 million buyers out there.  What does this mean for you in your neighbhorhood?  Most likely that what the press is saying about your real estate value is not true. 

For the real story, it is still recommended that you contact a trusted real estate consultant to help you evaluate your specific situation, complete with a market value report, as well as a financing report.  A good source is through the internet, on sites like SearchKansasCityHomes.com.

Get the REAL Stats

There was a great article in the KC Star a week ago on "Home Sales Numbers Mixed," by Kevin Collison.  "While the average price of a Kansas City area home was down in April, sales were up 10%," he reports.  THere's a good graphic with it too.  If you'd like a copy of it, please drop me an email and I will fax it to you.

Anita@IntegrityRealtykc.com

Q & A

Q.  I want to plant some trees in my yard.  What and where to your recommend I plant them so they provide the best curb appeal on my house?

A.  Great question.  If you are planting in the front of the house, smaller, ornamental trees (redbud, japanese maple, or river birch) placed toward the outer edge of your property are the best.  They provide small patches of shade, compliment the home with color, and make the home appear larger by their placement.

For the back of the house, larger trees are best as they provide a backdrop for your home.  Stay away from fast growing "soft wood" trees if you are in a climate where you receive wind or ice damage as those trees will break too easily.  Stick with hardwood maple, non-fruit bearing oak, or ash. 

Tips to Save Energy Today

This is government site is an excellent source of energy saving tips:  QUICK LINK.  You can use this for all kinds of fast, easy, low-cost energy savings for your home.

RADON: Metro Area is a Hot Zone

Jeffrey M. Salem with the Sun Tribune wrote this informative article on area radon.  QUICK LINK

Good Information On Local Kansas City Housing Market

Here are a couple of articles from the Kansas City Star with some factual information on the real estate market.  They answer a lot of questions about the local market her in Kansas City, and it's exactly what I've been presenting to our clients.  Let me know your thoughts when you've read them.

Housing Market, Part 1

Housing Market, Part 2

cotnact me at Anita@IntegrityRealtykc.com