Greater Kansas City Real Estate BlogRecently posted or modified blog postshttps://www.askcathy.com/blog/Copyright AskCathy.com2024-01-08T15:19:24-07:00tag:askcathy.com,2012-09-20:35030Listing Spotlight: 1536 SW Hedgewood Ln, Lee's Summit, MO 64081
Custom-Built 1.5 Story Home in Lee's Summit!
4 Bed | 3.5 Bath | 4,757 Sq Ft
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/1536_SW_Hedgewood_Ln/MLS_size_vibrance.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
Take advantage of this rare opportunity to own a home in Lee's Summit HIDDEN GEM neighborhood! This reverse 1.5 story CUSTOM build was built by Sbisa Homes and you'll note superb quality features throughout! As you drive up to this home, you'll see gorgeous PROFESSIONAL landscaping including tons of beautiful perennials. Inviting covered front porch and full stucco siding on all sides. When you enter, note the beautiful OAK hardwood floors, 12-foot ceilings, and amazing floor-to-ceiling windows. Great room features STONE fireplace with built-in entertainment cabinet, extensive crown and trim, and opens to chef's dream kitchen which includes GAS cook top, built-in oven, microwave, walk-in pantry, built-in hutch, and inviting breakfast area. Beautiful formal dining area as well as EXECUTIVE office with built-in bookshelves and desk area. Home has main level laundry & convenient side porch. From the Breakfast area, you can head out to the HUGE deck with views of wooded area behind the home....ideal for entertaining. Luxury Master Suite with own entrance to deck, SPA-LIKE bath with his/her vanities, huge walk-in shower, jetted tub, separate water closet, and spacious walk-in closet with built-ins. AND we're just getting started! Heading to the lower level, there's an inviting family room area, extra kitchen w/bar, BONUS wine cellar, and three additional, generous-sized bedrooms. This could be a perfect in-law suite! The 2nd bedroom has access to private bath and walk-in closet. 3rd bath w/extra vanity room is shared by bedrooms 3 & 4. There is also an exercise room and BONUS game/media room. Walk-out to the COVERED PATIO area and note the fully fence yard. NEW ROOF 2023! 3-car suspended garage! PELLA windows throughout (many with custom Plantation shutters!) This home is a BEAUTY and offers so much. A MUST SEE!!
Want to learn more about this property? <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/property-search/detail/109/2467311/1536-sw-hedgewood-ln-lees-summit-mo-64081/" target="_blank">View the listing here on our website</a>, and make sure to check out the full video tour below, as well as some of our favorite pictures from this beautiful home!
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<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/1536_SW_Hedgewood_Ln/1536SWHedgewoodLn-26.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/1536_SW_Hedgewood_Ln/1536SWHedgewoodLn-23.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
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<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/1536_SW_Hedgewood_Ln/1536SWHedgewoodLn-14.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
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<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/1536_SW_Hedgewood_Ln/1536SWHedgewoodLn-9.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
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<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/1536_SW_Hedgewood_Ln/1536SWHedgewoodLn-4.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/1536_SW_Hedgewood_Ln/1536SWHedgewoodLn-8.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/1536_SW_Hedgewood_Ln/1536SWHedgewoodLn-12.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
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<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/1536_SW_Hedgewood_Ln/Downloads-2.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/1536_SW_Hedgewood_Ln/1536SWHedgewoodLn-31.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/1536_SW_Hedgewood_Ln/SOE00367.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/1536_SW_Hedgewood_Ln/SOE00373.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />2024-01-08T15:00:38-07:002024-01-08T15:19:24-07:00Ask Cathy Marketing Grouptag:askcathy.com,2012-09-20:34825Things to Start Now if You Want to Buy or Sell a Home in 2024
Tips on What You Can Do to Set Yourself Up to Buy or Sell a Home in the New Year!
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If You Want to Buy a Home
Meet with Your Realtor
Finding a Realtor Ⓡ that you can trust and rely on is paramount. It is best to find a Buyers agent who is experienced, in both successful home purchases, as well as strong negotiation skills. Having a buyer's consultation early on in the home-buying process is ideal, in order for you to be in the best possible position to purchase a home. Having reasonable flexibility versus a tight deadline, allows you to take your time to find the home you really want. Avoid using the agent that is listing the home you would like to purchase. That agent has a fiduciary responsibility first to the seller, which can make negotiations difficult. Want to connect with an experienced, and professional local real estate agent? <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/meet-our-team/" target="_blank">Connect with a member of our team today!</a>
Meet With Your Lender
Meeting with a mortgage lender early is also a plus, and a local lender is usually better than one found over the Internet. Having a lender that is easy to get a hold of, versus having to go through a chain of customer service reps is a definite benefit. Oftentimes, listing agents prefer a local lender to a non-descript internet lender, when vetting a potential buyer for their listing. Getting pre-qualified and then pre-approved for a mortgage loan is critical when it comes to shopping for a home. You will want to be pre-approved BEFORE you go house hunting. You don’t want to fall in love with a home, only to lose out to a contract from a pre-approved buyer.
The Ask Cathy Team can put you in touch with some of our local trusted lenders to help guide you through the pre-approval process. <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/contact/" target="_blank">Connect with us</a> for a list of lenders who have a proven track record of great rates and closing on homes on time.
Build an Emergency Fund
Building an emergency fund lets you have peace of mind that if the unexpected happens, you will be prepared. The general guideline for an emergency fund is 3 months or more of expenses. This would include your future mortgage payment, insurance, utilities, and other living expenses. Murphy’s law states “Anything that can go wrong will go wrong.” Though we don’t like to think about potential emergencies, generally, it is best to prepare for the worst but hope for the best. You will be glad you did if a true emergency does arise.
Save for Your Down Payment
Your down payment is separate from your emergency fund. You should save at least 5% to 20% or beyond of your intended purchase price for your house down payment. The more down payment you put down from the get-go, the lower your mortgage payment will be. Also putting 20% or more down eliminates the need for Private Mortgage Insurance or (PMI). PMI is insurance that protects lenders against loss if a borrower defaults and is generally required if your down payment on your new home is less than 20% of the mortgage amount. Simply put, if you are putting down less than 20% down payment you will be paying PMI in addition to your mortgage payment. PMI stays in place until you’ve reached 20% equity in your home, at which time you can request it to be removed. PMI is usually canceled automatically when you’ve reached 22% equity. <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/blog/strategies-to-save-for-your-down-payment/" target="_blank">Check out our tips on ways to save for your down payment!</a>
Pay Off/Pay Down Debt
Qualifying for a mortgage depends on a number of factors, one essentially being your debt-to-income ratio. This figure compares how much money you owe (your debts) to how much money you earn (your gross (before tax) income). Every mortgage lender has their own guidelines as to what is acceptable DTI, but the lower you make yours, the better. A common rule of thumb is the <a href="https://www.investopedia.com/ask/answers/12/reasonable-amount-of-debt.asp" target="_blank">28/36 guideline</a> when it comes to reasonable debt. Your mortgage and home-related expenses (property tax, insurance, utilities) should be no more than 28% of your income. Those total expenses PLUS your credit card debt, car loans, and additional liabilities should not exceed 36% of your income.
Work on Credit Score
Another item that is important to qualify for a mortgage is a good credit score. Again, lenders have different acceptable credit scores as to what will qualify for certain mortgages. Here, it is better to have a higher number. The higher the credit score, the easier it will be for you to be approved for a mortgage, and the more programs will be available for you. Not all credit score levels will be accepted for a mortgage, so it is much better to find out your score early before you want to purchase a home so that you can work on it until you are ready to buy. Knowing what is on your credit report is very important. Sometimes there can be errors that you will be able to correct, but that takes time. Leave yourself plenty of time to address any hiccups on your credit report that can keep you from buying a home.
Get to Know the Area You Would Like to Buy In
Unless you are relocating to an area from out of state, you may have a general idea as to where you would like to live. This area is most likely familiar to you, being close to work, the activities you do, close to family or friends, etc. Sometimes though, the price points of homes in a particular area may differ from what you can comfortably afford. If that is the case, it is a good idea to have more than one option for the area in which you would like to live. Make your list of must-haves and a list of wants, and know the areas you are willing to compromise on, just in case. Especially if you are buying a home with another person, it is good to be on the same page as to what is important. Depending on the housing market, or the time of year, you may need to compromise in one area or another. In house hunting, some common (and important) areas to discuss are location, condition, price, or features. Rank these areas in order of importance. Ask yourself, is it more important to be in your target area, and compromise on the number of bedrooms, or condition, or would you rather be in a move-in ready home outside of your target area?
If You are Selling a Home
Meet With Your Realtor
Finding a Realtor Ⓡ that puts your best interest at heart is paramount to a successful listing. Your agent can help put a plan in place with a timeline that is comfortable for you. They can also discuss marketing your home in the best light possible, arranging for professional photography, and staging (if needed). Your listing agent should be known for savvy negotiations, proven marketing strategies, and a commitment to high ethical standards. <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/sellers/why-list-with-ask-cathy/" target="_blank">Learn more about why you should list with the Ask Cathy team when selling your home!</a>
Declutter
Decluttering a home can be a daunting task. Depending on how long you have lived in your home, the more daunting it can be. Go through every drawer, every closet, every room, and pare down and begin to pack up. Closet contents should be reduced by half so that potential buyers will feel your home has plenty of storage. Closets and storage areas bursting at the seams, make homes appear lacking in storage. Depersonalizing your home will also allow potential buyers to see themselves in your home.
Complete Projects
The last thing a potential buyer wants to see when they enter your home is unfinished home improvements that they will have to finish. It is ideal if the only thing that the future buyer of your home has to do is move in, or complete projects that they want to do, not need to do. Do you need recommendations on vendors we have worked with on home projects? <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/Your Ask Cathy Listing Agent can help get you in touch!" target="_blank">Your Ask Cathy Listing Agent can help get you in touch!</a>
Spruce Up Your Home's Curb Appeal
Judgment is often made curbside. Use the time before listing your home to do some projects to heighten your home’s curb appeal. Does your home need touch-up paint? Would a new door color be inviting? How is the landscaping? Give the exterior of your home a once over. If you were looking to purchase a new home, would your current home’s exterior draw your attention - in a positive way?
Decide What Your Next Steps Are
Have you thought about what your next steps are after you sell your current home? When you work with your Realtor Ⓡ, they can help you with your timeline to move forward and guide you through your next steps. They can put a plan in place to help you locate your new home and then move, timing everything as closely as possible. Your listing agent can pair you with a Buyer’s Agent on our team who will work with you on your new home, while your Listing Agent sells your current one. Our team works seamlessly together to provide you with excellent service and with your best intentions at heart.
<a href="https://askcathy.hifello.com/lp/6436ad6ae32334001ada8e24" target="_blank">Curious to see how much your home is worth in today’s market? We can help you with that information here.</a>
All in all, 2024 is forecasted to be a good year for both buying and selling, and no matter what, the Ask Cathy Marketing Group Team is on your side. Connect with us below to help guide you through your home-buying journey and home-selling goals!2023-12-29T12:00:00-07:002023-12-29T15:47:22-07:00Ask Cathy Marketing Grouptag:askcathy.com,2012-09-20:34501Recapping the December 2023 Federal Reserve Meeting!
Federal Reserve Keeps Rates Steady, Projects Rate Cuts in 2024
Examining the Fed's Latest Meeting and Economic Projections
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Yesterday at the conclusion of the Federal Reserve’s December meeting, Chairman Jerome Powell announced that the Fed would be keeping rates steady for the remainder of the year, and included updated economic projections forecasting a total of a .75% decrease in the current benchmark interest rate in 2024. The Fed has kept its benchmark interest rate in the range of 5.25 - 5.5 percent since July of this year, its highest level in 22 years.
Curious about the value of your home? <a href="https://askcathy.hifello.com/lp/6436ad6ae32334001ada8e24" target="_blank">Use our free home value estimate tool today to receive a free estimate of your home’s value in today’s market!</a>
Federal Reserve's Economic Projections Heading into Next Year
For three straight meetings now, the Fed has decided to maintain the current benchmark interest rate in order to let the full effects of the increases work through the American economy and slow down inflation. The Fed has consistently marked its goal of bringing inflation down to 2%, and its economic projections now anticipate bringing inflation down to 2.4% by next year as measured in the Personal Consumption Expenditures Price Index, which is the preferred measure of inflation for the Federal Reserve. Below is a graph released by the Fed that shows where the members of the Federal Open Market Committee believe the benchmark interest rate will be in 2024 and beyond.
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This is a slight decrease from its previous set of economic projections in September, which marked inflation falling to 2.5% next year. While the Fed is optimistic about its chances to reach its goal of 2% without entering an economic recession, Chairman Powell did note that, “Nobody is declaring victory. There is always a probability that there will be a recession in the next year, and it’s a meaningful probability no matter what the economy is doing.”
Economic Data Influencing the Fed's Decision
The biggest influence on the Fed’s decision to project possible rate cuts in the near future is due to the positive inflationary data, and job market data. Powell stated, “Inflation has eased from its highs, and this has come without a significant increase in unemployment - that’s very good news,”
Recent inflationary data from the Consumer Price Index, another method of measuring inflation nationwide, showed that inflation increased by 0.1 percent on a monthly basis, for a 3.1 percent increase compared to the previous year. That’s a decrease from the 3.2% measure in October of this year, and is down considerably from the peak CPI measurement of over 9% during the summer of 2022.
It is worth noting that the Fed is taking a cautious approach when addressing the possibility of future interest rate changes, noting that the FOMC, “... didn’t write down additional hikes … Participants also didn’t want to take the possibility of further hikes off the table.”
Want to view available homes in our market? <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/property-search/search-form/" target="_blank">Create your very own personalized home search on our website to stay up to date on all of the new homes in our market as soon as they are available!</a>
Average Mortgage Rate Dips Below 7% For First Time in Months
In part due to the Fed’s projections of rate cuts in 2024 and the improving inflation data encouraging the Fed to believe the battle for inflation is progressing, the average mortgage rate across the nation has recently dropped below 7%, a first since August of this year. Sam Khater, chief economist for Freddie Mac stated “Given inflation continues to decelerate and the Federal Reserve Board’s current expectations that they will lower the federal funds target rate next year, we will likely see a gradual thawing of the housing market in the new year.”
Danielle Hale, chief economist at Realtor.com, added to the sentiment expressed by Khater when talking with Yahoo Finance, mentioning that, “I think we’ll see a bigger uptick in housing demand if mortgage rates were to fall into the 5s because that will reduce the strength of the lock-in effect for a greater share of homeowners - more than 90 percent of whom have an outstanding mortgage rate that is under 6 percent”.
Questions About Today's Housing Market? Contact Me to Learn More!
If you are thinking of buying or selling a home in the near future, or just have questions about today’s housing market, make sure to contact us today by giving us a call at (816) 268-4033, or by filling out the contact form below! Today’s market is challenging, which is why it’s important to work with an experienced REALTOR Ⓡ who knows how to navigate the real estate market and help you get the most money possible on the sale of your home, or find the perfect house that meets you and your family’s needs!
2023-12-15T12:00:00-07:002023-12-15T09:52:12-07:00Ask Cathy Marketing Grouptag:askcathy.com,2012-09-20:34482Listing Spotlight: 314 Cold Water Ln, Raymore, MO 64083
Gorgeous Ranch Available in Alexander Creek!
4 Bed | 3 Bath | 2,196 Sq Feet
<a href="https://www.askcathy.com/property-search/detail/109/2461617/314-cold-water-ln-raymore-mo-64083/" target="_blank"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/Cold_Water/314COLDWATERLNLISTEDBYSARAHCOX279P-31.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></a>
Stunning ranch located in the coveted Alexander Creek, Raymore's premier 55+ maintenance provided community! Roof, HVAC, everything is only 1.5 years young and shows JUST LIKE NEW! Gorgeous open floorplan includes an open kitchen with large granite center island, gas range, stainless appliances, and walk-in pantry! Great Room with electric fireplace and wood beam accents! Breakfast area with built-ins and access to the awesome deck for enjoying your own private forest views! Master Suite with custom accent wall, built-in window bench, large walk-in closet, and spa-like bath with two vanities and free-standing tub in the custom tiled walk-in shower! 2nd main level bedroom with large closet and 2nd full bath with tile floor and shower/tub. Lower level includes a rec room with walkout to the backyard, as well as two large bedrooms with walk-in closets, and hall bath with tile floor and shower/tub combo. Great unfinished storage as well! Includes invisible dog fence already installed! HOA covers lawn/sprinkler maintenance, snow removal, trash, as well as all the amazing neighborhood trails, butterfly garden, and annual community events!
Want to learn more about this property? <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/property-search/detail/109/2461617/314-cold-water-ln-raymore-mo-64083/" target="_blank">View the listing here on our website</a>, and make sure to check out the full video tour below, as well as some of our favorite pictures from this beautiful home!
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<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/Cold_Water/314COLDWATERLNLISTEDBYSARAHCOX279P-20.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/Cold_Water/314COLDWATERLNLISTEDBYSARAHCOX279P-1.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/Cold_Water/314COLDWATERLNLISTEDBYSARAHCOX279P-3.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/Cold_Water/314COLDWATERLNLISTEDBYSARAHCOX279P-6.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/Cold_Water/314COLDWATERLNLISTEDBYSARAHCOX279P-23.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
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<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/Cold_Water/314COLDWATERLNLISTEDBYSARAHCOX279P-25.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/Cold_Water/314COLDWATERLNLISTEDBYSARAHCOX279P-29.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />2023-12-14T11:45:00-07:002023-12-14T11:54:02-07:00Ask Cathy Marketing Grouptag:askcathy.com,2012-09-20:34237Pictures with Santa and the KC Wolf - 2023 Ask Cathy Recap!
Recapping All of the Fun at Our 2023 Pictures With Santa Client Appreciation Event!
The Ask Cathy Marketing Group Team was able to jingle all the way down to the Stanley Event Center last evening to hold our annual Photos with Santa and the KC Wolf!
Over 240 people were able to join us for an evening of merriment photo-taking! Take a look at all the fun!
We love hosting events at the picturesque Stanley! It is truly a downtown Lee's Summit staple!
Before diving into all of the fun of our latest client appreciation event, if you're thinking about a potential move in the future and want to know the potential value of your home, <a href="https://askcathy.hifello.com/lp/6436ad6ae32334001ada8e24" target="_blank">use our free home value tool to get an estimate on your property's value today!</a>
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Santa brought a few friends from the North Pole to help delight and decorate!
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All of our little guests were definitely on the "nice list" while they waited patiently for their turn for a photo with the "big guy"!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Santa_2023/15.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="vertical-align: middle; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
Of course, it was just like the KC Wolf to jump in on all the fun!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Santa_2023/4.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="vertical-align: middle; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
Both Santa and KC Wolf love to take photos with all of our Ask Cathy families! Look at those great smiles!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Santa_2023/2.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="vertical-align: middle; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
The KC Wolf, in his usual form, was so much fun to be around with all of his antics and crazy dance moves!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Santa_2023/14.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="vertical-align: middle; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
"The Grinch" heard all the fun from the top of Mount Crumpit, so of course, he had to join in!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Santa_2023/12.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="vertical-align: middle; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Santa_2023/10.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="vertical-align: middle; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
Cathy tried her best to put a smile on the Grinch's face, but alas, he was still very grinchy.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Santa_2023/8.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
Luckily, Santa and the KC Wolf were good sports about it, and welcomed him to the party!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Santa_2023/18.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="vertical-align: middle; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
We love seeing our Ask Cathy Families having fun!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Santa_2023/7.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="vertical-align: middle; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
We hope you had an opportunity to join us for this year's fun event!
If not, we would love to see you next year! <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/meet-our-team/" target="_blank">Give your agent a call today</a>, or contact us at the form below to make sure that your agent has your updated contact information so you can stay in the know on all of our upcoming client events!
Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and a Joyous New Year! We hope to see you soon!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Santa_2023/16.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="vertical-align: middle; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
2023-12-06T15:00:00-07:002023-12-06T17:06:20-07:00Ask Cathy Marketing Grouptag:askcathy.com,2012-09-20:33428Holiday Opportunities for Home Viewing Magic! Holiday Home Tours in the Kansas City Area
Peeking Inside Beautifully Decorated KC Homes!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/Sierra_Blog_Image_TemplateGGMS_Video_Thumbnails_12.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
As REALTORS Ⓡ, we view a number of homes each and every year. We get to see the interior of homes all day long while we are out with prospective buyers, or previewing properties for an investor. When viewing homes in this capacity, we have our REALTOR Ⓡ hats on, firmly perched, and while the hat itself is imaginary, our position as professional agents is not.
During a viewing, we are focused on structure and soundness, whether a home is a good investment, or if a particular home can meet the needs of the people that we are showing it to. We look for dampness in the basement, aging systems, and shoddy roofs. We are on high alert, as we would never want to be a part of our clients making an ill-fated transaction. After all, purchasing a home is one of the largest investments someone will make in their lifetime.
Sometimes when viewing homes, looks can be deceiving, and while a facade and the interior of a home are lovely, we never quite turn off our real estate agent's “spidey sense” or let our guard down. We focus on potential issues, so that our clients can focus on the home itself, and not the nitty gritty. It is because of this, that we hope people view us as their trusted real estate experts.
We would love to be your trusted real estate professional as well. Our team is filled with agents of distinction and experience, <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/meet-our-team/" target="_blank">meet them here</a>. If you are thinking of buying or selling a home, <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/contact/" target="_blank">let's meet for a no-obligation consultation.</a> We would love to show you the Ask Cathy Team Difference!
Beauty is in the Eye of the Beholder
Viewing homes, however, is not all doom and gloom. It actually is quite fun. We see new design styles, historic architecture, and innovative features all day long. The Kansas City area is especially rich with a plethora of fantastic homes all in varied environments, from peaceful country settings, welcoming family neighborhoods, charm of a historic urban downtown. Surely, we all can probably appreciate some good design and a great location.
Viewing beautiful homes is a wonderful perk of being a real estate agent, and it is a pleasure to be able to appreciate these homes, not only from the outside but from the interior as well. For people who enjoy viewing homes, and who are not necessarily in the market to purchase one, they mostly need to be content in viewing beautiful homes from the exterior as they drive through a great neighborhood, on the internet, or in a magazine. Sadly, pictures rarely do it justice.
The exterior of a home is truly important. In the real estate "world", a home’s facade can hold the key to the “first impression”. Sometimes a home is offputting or unkempt from the outside, or just not what the potential buyer is expecting, and can deter someone from going into the home - one badly timed driveby is all it takes to turn off a potential buyer in a heartbeat. The exterior of a home creates expectations, of what is behind closed doors. For the viewer, you can often wonder what a home’s interior holds beyond the front door.
View Through a Different Lens
During Christmastime and the winter holidays, this is especially true. The exterior facades of homes decorated with wreaths, decorations, and twinkling lights can be breathtaking with the evening winter sky as a backdrop. It is one of the things that makes this time of year so special. One often wonders, if the outside is so lovely, how have they done up the interior? Is it just as special and magical?
This season, wonder no more. Holiday home tours allow anyone to view homes through an entirely different lens, not as an agent focused on a sensible purchase, but solely as an appreciator of beautiful things. Holiday home tours can seem like magic. They allow spectators to step through the doorway into something unexpected, and utterly charming. They are the perfect opportunity to see beyond the facade and view something truly special inside.
Kansas City Area Opportunities
If this sounds like something that you would enjoy, below we have listed several opportunities to take a Holiday home tour. These tours range from ones that have been a tradition for many years, to a brand new opportunity and some in between. They are sure to get you into the holiday spirit, and maybe inspire some decorating of your own! We’ve included links so you can see about admission costs, hours, and all the details.
Also, if you are looking to make a change in your own home, and move to something a bit more “magical”, either now or in the future, please keep us in mind. We would value becoming your trusted REALTORS Ⓡ, who help you make a solid investment. <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/meet-our-team/" target="_blank">Please connect with The Ask Cathy Team </a>at your earliest convenience to discuss the possibilities!
Kansas City Area Holiday Home Tours
Kansas City
<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.eventbrite.com/e/a-very-merry-christmas-tickets-750832609547?aff%3Derelexpmlt&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1701447148034993&usg=AOvVaw0K3tw6arWGq7133KhKEt_b" target="_blank">Alexander Majors House and Barn </a>
8201 State Line Rd, Kansas City
Saturday, December 9 · 9 am - 12 pm CST
"Join us for a very merry Christmas at the Alexander Majors House and Barn! A Very Merry Christmas will be packed with holiday activities perfect for all ages. Come learn about how nineteenth-century Kansas Citians would have celebrated the holiday. Crafts and games will fill the barn. The Major House will host museum tours and holiday readings with a costumed interpreter. Santa will be available for photos from 10 a.m. to noon. Mo' Crepes 'N Cakes will provide a mini pancake and crepe bar."
Tickets are $10 per person.* Last entry at 11:30 a.m.
<br /><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://phkc.org/Holiday-Homes-Tour&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1701447148032836&usg=AOvVaw3pgiQND2Vxgh_10fKpUzuN" target="_blank">14th Annual Pendleton Heights Holiday Homes Tour</a>
Saturday, December 9, 2023
11:00 am - 4:00 pm
2200 Lexington Ave, Kansas City, MO 64124
“For one day only guests are being given the chance to walk through some of the most inspiring private homes in Kansas City’s Pendleton Heights neighborhood. This self-guided tour features seven distinct residences. Learn about local history & architecture, while enjoying the unique festive décor at each home.”
<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.kappahomestour.com/&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1701447148035473&usg=AOvVaw0G9QjKUxdzaX6H2eohGyqZ" target="_blank">72nd Annual Kappa Kappa Gamma Holiday Homes Tour</a>
Tuesday, December 5th | Cocktails & Candlelight | 5pm-9pm
Wednesday, December 6th | Tour 12pm-8pm | Boutique 11am-8pm
Thursday, December 7th | Tour 10am-6pm | Boutique 10am-3pm
The Kappa Homes Tour has been a holiday tradition for more than 70 years! Started in 1951, the Tour has raised more than $2 million for local charitable organizations and the Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation.
Homes Featured in Tour:
6638 WENONGA TERRACE, MISSION HILLS, KS
5200 SUNSET DRIVE, KANSAS CITY, MO
1055 W 54 TERR, KANSAS CITY, MO
5838 HOWE DRIVE, FAIRWAY, KS
Excelsior Springs
<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://visitexcelsior.com/holiday-homes-tour/&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1701447148036276&usg=AOvVaw2F5t3f9wSXyIK3p_nmU53M" target="_blank">Holiday Homes Tour</a>
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2023
12 – 6 PM
Enjoy visiting 5 residents’ homes that are graciously opened and enjoy their stunningly decorated abodes. The joy and magic of the season is brought to life! Start the holiday season off by touring homes that go above and beyond when it comes to holiday decor!
Leavenworth
<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.leavenworthhistory.org/Tour_Of_Homes.htm&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1701447148031570&usg=AOvVaw3p--o1W8fl4RMUI2-952B_" target="_blank">The 31st Annual Vintage Homes Tour Presents: A Victorian Christmas</a>
Sunday, December 10, 2023
1:00 pm-6:00 pm
Carroll Mansion, 1128 5th Ave, Leavenworth, KS
“The annual Leavenworth Vintage Homes Tour has become a holiday tradition for area residents and visitors when they tour vintage homes decorated for the season and learn the history of past owners and their lives in the First City of Kansas. As a river city on the Missouri, Leavenworth takes great pride in an extensive selection of Victorian-era homes. A tour of local homes offers a glimpse into the unusual legacy of history to be found only in Leavenworth. The Carroll Mansion Museum, where Leavenworth’s history has been witnessed since1858, serves as tour headquarters. Selected homeowners graciously open their historic homes, festooned in holiday decor, to transport visitors back in time as they become immersed in the Christmas spirit on the second Sunday of December.”
Tour proceeds benefit the operation of the Carroll Mansion Museum and the mission of the Historical Society to preserve Leavenworth County's history.
Additional Events:
Soup and Sandwich Lunch (Sponsored by June & Aree Catering of Leavenworth)
Served from 12:00 noon to 4:00 pm at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church Parish Hall, 209 N 7th Street, across the street from the church on tour.
Available with pre-purchased ticket: $10 donation
Weston
<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.westonmo.com/candlelight-homes-tour%23!event-register/2023/12/2/historic-candlelight-homes-tour&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1701447148034254&usg=AOvVaw0hUGkphb96XA3fQgwWhAlS" target="_blank">Historic Candlelight Homes Tour</a>
Sat, Dec 2, 2023
Sun, Dec 3, 2023
2 pm - 7 pm Shuttles will run all day.
Tickets are $20 until Nov. 15th and then $25 afterward. Under 10 free
“For over four decades, Weston homeowners have opened the doors to their historic homes and welcomed visitors for the holidays. Come share in the festive atmosphere and holiday decor—"It's Like Being in a Holiday Movie!"
Weston shops will be all decked out for the season, and our iconic Father Christmas will be strolling the streets along with holiday carolers.
Homes on Tour
The Hatchery House, 618 Short St
The Roost at Hatchery House
605 Short St (Spinner House)
400 Main Street (Apt above Cactus Creek)
930 Washington St
901 Welt St
Independence
<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id%3D100083185969438&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1701447148035783&usg=AOvVaw3yHxXZ1OQrFJEbxAJhqwWA" target="_blank">62nd Annual Holly & Mistletoe Homes Tour</a>
Hosted by Independence Young Matrons
Thursday, December 7th, 2023.
Homes will be open for touring at 10 am until 8 pm.
12700 E 37th Street Court S. Independence, Mo
5024 S Conway Ct. Independence, MO
4308 SE Willow Tree Ct. Blue Springs, MO
7000 SE Moreland School Rd Blue Springs, MO
"Please visit our Sweet Shop, being held at Colonial Hills Community of Christ Church, from 10-5. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Tickets may be purchased from any IYM member or from participating businesses. The list of those businesses and their address is attached in a photo. We are so excited to share in this long-held tradition! See you there!"
<a href="https://www.bwestate.net/visit" target="_blank">Bigham-Waggoner Mansion and Estate House Tours</a>
313 West Pacific, Independence, MO 64051
"Beginning in the Carriage House, let our tour guides take you into the 1800s. We begin with a 10-minute video that introduces the amazing families that lived in this house. This 26-room, 3-story mansion houses 95% original contents from the last family living on the estate for 97 years. Allow about 1 hour for the tour. Feel free to explore the grounds in our beautiful park."
Mon-Wed 12 pm or 2 pm
Thu-Sat 10 am-4 pm
Sun 1 pm-4 pm
(Last tour begins at 3 pm)
*Closed Nov 20-23, Dec 23-25, 30-31, Private and Group Tours Available
<a href="https://www.bwestate.net/events" target="_blank">Other Special Holiday Events</a>
<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.bwestate.net/events&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1701447148036012&usg=AOvVaw0eB9oBJevhTgLMB-ujOSTB" target="_blank">Twilight Gala At The Mansion, December 1, 2023, 5:00-</a><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.bwestate.net/events&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1701447148036012&usg=AOvVaw0eB9oBJevhTgLMB-ujOSTB" target="_blank">9:00 pm</a>
"Join us for a truly magical Christmas experience! The evening promises to be a captivating journey through time, as we adorn our cherished mansion with splendid holiday decorations. You will have the opportunity to wander through the halls, each adorned with its unique charm, and learn about the fascinating history that have unfolded within these walls over the centuries. Enjoy the festive entertainment, delightful hors d'oeuvres, and delectable holiday treats."
<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.bwestate.net/events&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1701447148036012&usg=AOvVaw0eB9oBJevhTgLMB-ujOSTB">Cookies & Cocoa with Mrs. Claus, December 16, 2023, 10:00 am - </a><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.bwestate.net/events&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1701447148036012&usg=AOvVaw0eB9oBJevhTgLMB-ujOSTB" target="_blank">1:00 pm</a>
"Join us for a delightful event with Mrs. Claus herself! Enjoy a delectable assortment of cookies, coffee, tea, and cocoa while Mrs. Claus reads "Twas the Night Before Christmas" and gladly answer any Santa or Christmas-related questions posed by the little ones. Each child makes a Christmas craft to take home with them. Our event welcomes youngsters aged 3 to 8."
<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.vailemansion.org/&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1701447148037216&usg=AOvVaw1mrWlVcj-t52XyUOB4S_VB" target="_blank">Vaile Mansion and Arboretum</a>
<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.vailemansion.org/events&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1701447148036860&usg=AOvVaw3MHvz8jcd0IFnkmpJUsiKZ" target="_blank">Royal Victorian Christmas Tours </a>
Enjoy the wonderful decorations of the Vaile Mansion.
November 25th-December 30th (Closed Dec. 23rd-25th)
1500 N. Liberty St., Independence, MO 64050
Holiday Tour Hours:
Thursday-Saturday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Sunday 1 p.m. - 4 p.m.
(Last tour at 3pm)
Purchase tickets at the door. No reservations needed for individuals or small groups. We accept cash or credit cards.
Special Holiday Event
<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.eventbrite.com/e/champagne-and-chandeliers-at-the-vaile-mansion-tickets-752120060347?aff%3Doddtdtcreator&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1701447148032465&usg=AOvVaw2OmQIkRamcF0f5SL31NdX3" target="_blank">Champagne and Chandeliers at the Vaile Mansion</a>
Saturday, December 2
"Twilight Tour of the Vaile Mansion with appetizers and champagne. Come anytime during the 3 hours to enjoy the beautiful Christmas decor. Come any time between 5:30 and 8:00 and enjoy the beautiful Christmas ambiance while sipping champagne or sparkling water and enjoying passed appetizers. Tour guides will be available through the Mansion to share the background of this wonderful piece of history. Tickets can be purchased on Eventbrite for $40.00/person or at the door for $45.00."
Proceeds from the event will go to the Vaile Mansion Restoration Fund for major exterior repairs needed on the Mansion. Attendees must be at least 21 years old.
KANSAS
Strawberry Hill Historical Museum
<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://strawberryhillmuseum.org/plan-a-visit/&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1701447148035266&usg=AOvVaw1NkBS_v48gxvVg6RQGVR1i" target="_blank">Holiday Tours - Olde World Christmas</a>
720 N. 4th Street, Kansas City, Kansas 66101
November 4th, 2023 - January 14, 2024
Saturdays & Sundays
12 PM, 1 PM, 2 PM, and 3 PM
"The museum becomes a magical kingdom when viewed in the twilight of the day. Consider a night-time tour of the Strawberry Hill Museum to really get you into the Christmas spirit. The Mansion will be illuminated with all kinds of NEW DECORATIONS including hundreds of special Christmas lights."
Other Holiday Events
<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://strawberryhillmuseum.org/breakfast-with-st-nick/&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1701447148033726&usg=AOvVaw1PeY7b6-gfdtzaUfaCHj8N" target="_blank">Breakfast with Saint Nick</a>
"St. Nick has included us in his flight plan and will be arriving Saturday, December 2nd from 8 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. A $10 fee will include breakfast for a child, a visit with St. Nick and one picture. If your child wishes to only visit St. Nick for the picture, the fee is only $5.00.An adult breakfast will be available for $6.00. Breakfast will consist of pancakes, sausage, biscuits and gravy, fruit, and coffee, tea or milk. Please purchase your tickets online to hold your spot with St. Nick and breakfast.
<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://strawberryhillmuseum.org/high-tea/&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1701447148033345&usg=AOvVaw1klUvGv0io_zwDHLERpkYf" target="_blank">Winter Wonderland High Tea</a>
Today is a good day to refuel your soul and have brunch! After brunch we are including a guided tour through the Museum's Olde World Christmas. Bring a friend or group of friends to have some deliciousness for lunch and then enjoy all the lights for the holiday spirit.
<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://strawberryhillmuseum.org/nighttime-tours/&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1701447148034569&usg=AOvVaw3ZcqwEazwZa6HZcFARJDUz" target="_blank">Nightime Holiday Events</a>
NightTime Tours December 21st and January 4th
NightTime Wine Sampling Tour December 7th
NightTime Dinner Tours - December 14th
NightTime Appetizer Tour - Dec 28
NightTime Dinner/Open House - Jan 11, 2024
Wrapping Up
One of the benefits of touring homes, is that it might bring you to an area that you are less familiar with or haven’t been to before. This is just one of the ways people discover new neighborhoods they can picture themselves living in. If you are out touring, and a neighborhood looks intriguing, that might be a sign that your current neighborhood no longer fits your needs. Want to see more? <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/property-search/search-form/" target="_blank">View available properties here that are on the market today. </a> The Ask Cathy team would love to set up a special property search curated just for you, and show you any available properties in the area, and other similar neighborhoods that would appeal to you. We can also help match you with a financing professional for a mortgage if needed as well. <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/contact/" target="_blank"> Give us a call</a> or connect with us below, and you could be showing off your home next holiday season!
Happy Holidays!
2023-12-01T12:00:00-07:002023-12-01T14:35:19-07:00Ask Cathy Marketing Grouptag:askcathy.com,2012-09-20:31779Listing Spotlight: 3104 SE 2nd Street, Lee's Summit, MO 64063
Beautiful Home Available in Mill Creek of Summit Mill!
4 Bed | 4.5 Bath | 3,244 Sq Feet
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/SE_2nd_Street/3104SE2NDST-2.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
New Price! Don't Miss the Beautiful Home in Mill Creek of Summit Mill! Great neighborhood with fishing ponds (stocked), playground, and a swimming pool! So many great features to love in this amazing 2-story! Pride of ownership shows! Living room with gas fireplace and hardwood floors! Lots of windows for natural light! The spacious open kitchen is perfect for cooking and entertaining with lots of cabinets and a large peninsula! Breakfast area walks out to large patio. Main level formal dining room with wainscoting and main level office with French doors. Main level half bath as well! Upstairs Enormous Master Suite includes a sitting area AND flex room that is perfect for an office, nursery, hobby room! The master bath includes a large 2-person whirlpool tub, large walk-in shower, two vanities, walk-in closet! All 4 bedrooms have their own private bathrooms and convenient bedroom level laundry room. All NEW carpet throughout and beautiful sculptured carpet on the stairs! Ready-to-go playroom in the basement with swing, theatre stage, climbing, and fort area! Kids will love this! Huge tandem garage with built-in shelves and 120V and 240V outlets! ADT Security system! The back patio is perfect for backyard BBQs! See beautiful sunsets on the water from your own backyard! Walking distance to Highland Park elementary! There is a city park nearby with walking trails! You'll love this neighborhood!
Want to learn more about this property? <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/property-search/detail/109/2458367/3104-se-2nd-st-lees-summit-mo-64063/" target="_blank">View the listing here on our website</a>, and make sure to check out the full video tour below, as well as some of our favorite pictures from this beautiful home!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/SE_2nd_Street/3104SE2NDST-7.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/SE_2nd_Street/3104SE2NDST-10.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/SE_2nd_Street/3104SE2NDST-12.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/SE_2nd_Street/3104SE2NDST-17.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/SE_2nd_Street/3104SE2NDST-19.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/SE_2nd_Street/3104SE2NDST-27.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/SE_2nd_Street/3104SE2NDST-18.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/SE_2nd_Street/3104SE2NDST-35.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />2023-11-08T15:45:00-07:002023-11-08T15:58:55-07:00Ask Cathy Marketing Grouptag:askcathy.com,2012-09-20:31706Enlisting the Five Senses for Making Your Guests Feel Welcome
Tips on Making Guests Feel Welcome in Your Home
How to Use All Five Senses to Make Your Guests Feel Welcome During the Holidays
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/Sierra_Blog_Image_TemplateGGMS_Video_Thumbnails_11.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
We are here in November, and if you haven’t already started preparing for the holiday season, chances are you will begin soon. Celebrating the holidays can inspire get-togethers, and spending time with family undoubtedly means that your home will see its fair share of guests.
Love to entertain but no room? Our team would love to help you find the right home to handle all your glitz, glitter, and get-togethers! <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/property-search/search-form/" target="_blank">Set up a customizable property search on our website</a>, or <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/contact/" target="_blank">contact one of our experienced agents for more information!</a>
Want to welcome your guests with open arms, even the unexpected ones?
Here are a few ways to make every guest who walks across your threshold feel welcome.
Much like in home selling, first impressions make a difference, especially if you are expecting company that hasn’t seen your home before. While it is normal to want to put your best foot forward and give a great first expression, you may be at a loss on how to do so. The simple answer is when welcoming guests into your home, cater to their senses.
Curious to see what your current home is worth on today's market? <a href="https://askcathy.hifello.com/lp/6436ad6ae32334001ada8e24" target="_blank">Get your information here</a>, you could be surprised!
The Sense of Scents
When walking into a home, senses are on alert - and one of those most important senses? Smell. Having a good-smelling home can give a good impression, and also make people feel immediately at ease. Being REALTORS Ⓡ, we have walked in on a few homes that have some “unique” odors, if you understand our meaning. The short of it is, that no one sets out having an unpleasant-smelling home, and it certainly doesn’t lend itself to making guests feel welcome.
One of the issues with maintaining a good-smelling home, is that being noseblind to your own home is a real thing. While spending significant time within your home’s four walls you tend to get used to its various scents and odors. The odors in particular that you may not notice, are those that come from pets. Other powerful odors can be from cooking, smoke, shoes, dampness, garbage, diapers, etc. Also if you have a home that has a large amount of carpet, drapery, and soft furnishings, all of these items can help hold and trap the odors of your home you most likely want to get rid of.
So the first step to making people who visit your home feel welcome, is to make sure your home smells pleasant. There are various ways to do so, without overwhelming the senses the other way - yes, it is possible to have too much of a good scent. The trick is to not overpower by masking odors with artificial scents, but to reach a balance between diffusing and addressing the source of the odors.
Clean - giving your home a once over when expecting guests is a great way to take care of any typical odors. A once-over with a vacuum after sprinkling baking powder or a deodorizer on a carpet can give an overall pleasant scent. Some people may opt to give their home a professional carpet cleaning in preparation for the holidays, especially if they are the main host.
Air purifiers - investing in an air purification system, even a small one can help the overall air quality in your home. Air purifiers can help with scents and allergens from pet dander, smoke, dust, mold, and other allergens.
A quick light spray from odor-catching sprays like Febreze, can “lock in” odors quickly, but be careful not to saturate, or overwhelm.
An essential oils air diffuser disperses aromatic essential oils into the air. It can fill a room with fragrance. The diffuser breaks your oil and water mixture into microscopic particles so they can enter the air. Some guests may be sensitive to fragrances. In that case, an evaporative diffuser may be most effective. Keep your diffuser away from food and drinks, or in another room entirely, to keep the air subtly fragrant without overwhelming anyone. One of the most important benefits of a diffuser is that it’s a safer alternative to chemical-laden room fresheners.
Get rid of moisture in your home by using a dehumidifier. The smell of mold or dampness can be a smell that can not only affect your sensitive guests but also be hazardous to your health over time. Mold is a particular allergen that many people are sensitive to. Having a dehumidifier running in your home can help alleviate the troublesome moisture that breeds mold.
Fix the obvious odor sources. Before expecting guests, empty your garbage cans, change the litter box, and put away sneakers or sports equipment from common areas.
Having a simmer pot full of the season's scents like cranberry, apple or cinnamon is a great way to adhere a pleasant aroma in your home. A simple concoction of fruit and spice in a pot of water simmering on your stove is a great way to achieve some great scents.
Bake something. Nothing is more pleasant and welcoming than the scent of something delicious wafting from the kitchen. This also is beneficial two-fold as it provides something delectable for your guests to partake in as well.
Seeing is Believing
The next sense that is on alert when someone walks into a new place is sight. As a person is greeted at the door, their sight, like their smell, is already on high alert. The walk to your doorway, the brief wait as they ring the bell, the opening of the door. Your guests have already been taking in what they see. Having a clean and tidy entryway, and approach to your home, gives the subtle messages “We were expecting you” and “Come right in”. If your guests have to traipse through an icy walkway, an unshoveled path, or a kid's bicycle just to get to your front door, they may feel less than welcome. Remove all obstacles, both physical and visual for a clear path to your front door.
Upon entering your home, their eyes greet you first, and then perhaps glance around their immediate surroundings. Make an immediate good impression, by:
Having a clean and tidy home. Again, make the path into your home clear for walking. It is possible for some guests to feel uneasy if your home is “too clean’ - as it gives off a sterile appearance, as opposed to a welcoming one. Guests themselves as well as their belongings feel like clutter in a too pristine environment. So when preparing for guests, a clean but but not too clean home is appealing.
Give your guests a place to set their things. A spot that is reserved for their coat, or bag will again make them feel like they were expected, or that their presence is not an inconvenience. Even taking their coat, and things can be another gesture to show that they are welcome, and also give the indication that you would like them to settle in.
In addition to showing them where they can put their coat and belongings, (or where you have put them), show your guests where the necessities are. By letting them know where the bathroom is, and where their personal effects are, will remove any awkwardness they may feel if they have to ask you later, or take out any mystery of which bathroom or bathrooms you are comfortable with them using.
Touch
You could be a hugger. If so, you may greet your guests with a warm embrace as they enter your door. This is especially likely if it has been a while between visits. That is certainly an immediate way to make people feel like you are happy to see them and happy to have them in your home. However, not everyone who enters your home will be a hugger. While it may be hard for a hugger to imagine that everyone doesn’t like a warm embrace - it is definitely true, so put to use one of the other ways to make someone feel welcome by focusing on the sense of touch that they do feel comfortable with.
Embrace them with your words. A warm welcome can be administered through meaningful words, that are heartfelt. Give them a comfortable place to relax, and feel at home. A comfortable chair or spot by the warm fireplace is especially welcoming when coming in from the cold. A chair with a beautiful view of the outdoors, or of the shining Christmas tree says subtly, “Welcome, I have saved the best spot for you.” Meeting your guest's physical comfort needs is especially important to make them feel at ease. Letting them keep their shoes on, or offering a pair of cozy guest slippers in place of wet footwear, is an extra special touch. An offering of a blanket, or to have one nearby is another way to make sure that your guest's needs are met.
Hearing
“Make yourself at home.” When welcoming people into our homes, this phrase is often used. What does it mean to you? While you probably don’t mean - go ahead change into a pair of my sweatpants, snuggle into my comfy bed, watch Netflix, and eat all my snacks, you probably do mean “Relax, please feel comfortable, and please be at ease around me and my home”.
One way to ensure that your guests feel welcome is to make them a priority. Even if you have things to do, focus on their presence.
Turn off the TV, and put down the phone. In short, spend time in their presence, not in your electronic devices. It is very easy to get distracted by other things, so taking a phone or a TV out of the equation is a good idea.
Listen, then talk. You can make a person feel welcome by doing more listening than talking. Giving someone your attention, and being a good listener is sometimes worth 100 of the words you could say back.
Depending on the situation, you may not be able to give them your full undivided attention, but in that case, include them in conversation with others, and introduce them to people they may not know. Pull up a stool to the kitchen island if you need to tend to matters in the kitchen. Above all, do not leave them floundering as to what they should do next, or where they should be.
Thinking of selling your current home, but want to know the potential value of your current home? <a href="https://askcathy.hifello.com/lp/6436ad6ae32334001ada8e24" target="_blank">Use our FREE home value estimate tool today!</a>
Taste
Having your guests feel welcome, and making them feel like they are not an inconvenience is to give the impression you were expecting them. One surefire way to do that is to have refreshments on hand.
Have quick and easy prep snacks on hand during peak visitation times in the case of unexpected visitors. It is also a good idea to have a gluten-free option in case there is a dietary preference.
If you are expecting guests, having something baking always exudes the feeling of homeyness
Offer a warm or cold beverage, and be sure to offer more than once.
Make them feel comfortable eating as well, by partaking in refreshments alongside your guests. No one likes to eat or drink alone.
Make it easy for them. Give a napkin, a coaster, the proper utensils, and a nearby table to set things upon.
Even if you don’t have time or the energy for a homecooked treat, store-bought cookies or a box of chocolates can look just as appealing if presented on a pretty or festive plate.
As They Go
One of the best ways to make your guests feel welcomed into your home, not just during the holiday season, but at any time is to extend the invitation for a future visit. If you are able, send them a text message or give them a call afterward, to express to them how much you enjoyed seeing them. It will also make them feel that your offer to come again, was genuine and sincere.
The holidays are also a time when out-of-town guests come for a visit, or perhaps you are the one who is doing the visiting. If you are looking to move closer to your family or friends we can help no matter where you want to be. Our team has a vast network of trusted REALTORS Ⓡ all across the globe, who can help get you in just the right home and neighborhood for all those holidays to come! Contact us using the form below, or by giving us a call at (816) 268-4033! 2023-11-06T12:00:00-07:002023-12-01T10:07:15-07:00Ask Cathy Marketing Grouptag:askcathy.com,2012-09-20:31643'Tis the Season... for Selling!
Home Sale Through the Holidays!
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The big question many potential sellers ask is, “When IS the best time to sell my home?”
This question comes from sellers wanting to see the following results:
A short "on the market" time
A large pool of buyers to choose from
The most money for your home when you do sell
Almost all sellers want the same things. A large number of buyers clamoring to buy their home within a few days of putting your home up for sale, with a short and sweet contract period resulting in the most profit possible. Easy, right? Well, experienced and market-savvy REALTORS Ⓡ, do everything in their power to get you just that.
Thinking about selling, but want to get an idea of how much your home could be worth? <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/Thank you so much to everyone who came out for “Bouquets, Boobs, and Boo-ze” tonight! It was so fun catching up with friends and meeting new friends! Siena Suwanee Town Center and Nancy’s Flower Truck were amazing partners!! We had a great time, gave away gorgeous bouquets, and raised money for breast cancer research!" target="_blank">Use our free home value estimate tool to find out today!</a>
Timing is Everything, or Is it?
Deciding to sell at any time of year can be a stressful decision. Deciding when to sell is a whole other animal entirely. In some cases, you have the luxury of deciding if and when to put your home on the market. Other times, selling is due to necessity and the timing isn’t always your choice.
The saying “timing is everything” may seem to be one of the biggest factors when it comes to selling a home. But, is that necessarily true? For those people who think that, selling a home in the winter may seem like the worst time in the year to do so. After all, WHO is buying a home in the dead of winter, when it is cold, bleak, and dismal?
The short answer is serious buyers. Serious buyers show up in the winter months. People who we call “looky-loos” - that are either half serious or not serious at all tend to do their looking in the warmer months when open houses are aplenty and not hampered by snowfall or cold weather. So who does that leave to look at homes during winter? People who are serious buyers who have to move, just like you. So while the actual number of people who might be looking at your home may be less, the buyers who are looking are in it to win it. These are the people who are more likely to make a serious offer. Remember, it only takes one serious buyer to buy your home.
Curious to see what your current home is worth in today's market? Get your information<a href="https://askcathy.hifello.com/lp/6436ad6ae32334001ada8e24" target="_blank"> here</a>!
Move to the Top
Another positive to winter home selling is that there are fewer homes entering the market during this time of year. That must be an indication that it is a bad time for selling right? Believe it or not, this is actually a positive thing for sellers. Just because there are fewer homes entering the market, doesn’t mean there are fewer buyers needing to move. With fewer homes to choose from, your home will gain more visibility and a greater chance of moving to the top of a homebuyer's priority list.
Already Ready for Showings!
Chances are that during the winter, and especially during the holiday season, your holiday decor can do double duty. Not only will it give your home a homey and festive ambiance, but it will help you prepare for your holiday guests as well. Most potential buyers like to picture how a particular home will feel when they are entertaining in the future. Having your home poised for the upcoming holidays, gives buyers a peek into their future in your home, making it another great reason to sell your home during the winter months. Another benefit is that your curb appeal is most likely very inviting, as it is common to decorate your home both inside and out for upcoming festivities. Some potential buyers do a drive-by before deciding if they want to see a home on the inside. A home ready for the holiday season gives your home exterior a festive boost!
Want to read more tips on how to prepare your home for showings? <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/sellers/showing-your-home/" target="_blank">Check out our tips on how to best prepare your home for showings!</a>
Important First Impressions
Take care of snow and icy walkways. Making sure there is a clear safe path to your door and on other walkways around your home is very important when selling your home. You don’t want potential buyers to think that your home is unsafe before they get inside. Do some prep work before every showing, leaving nothing to chance with your goal of getting buyers safely indoors.
A place for shoes. Having a mat to put slushy shoes, (or some disposable booties), is a great way to show that you care about the condition of your home. It also keeps carpets and flooring clean and dry.
Don’t over-decorate. While decorating your home for the holidays be sure to don’t overdo it. Potential buyers want to see a warm charming home, not necessarily Santa’s workshop. You don’t want potential buyers to focus on your decor, but focus on your home itself. You want your seasonal decor to add to your home’s original charms not distract from it.
A clean home, not a cluttered home. Giving your home a deep clean, and keeping it clean throughout the home sale process is essential no matter what time of the year you put it on the market. Even tidying up the garage is a good idea. A clean and decluttered home signals to a buyer that you have pride in your home, and you take care of it, which is exactly what they want in a home they are thinking of buying.
Please depersonalize. Taking down family photos, monogrammed signs, and other personal objects does two things. First, it gives you a head start on packing, and preparing for your move. Secondly, and most importantly, it allows potential buyers to see themselves in your home, instead of you. You want your home to feel like “their” next home, not yours.
Take advantage of natural sunlight. During the winter months, days tend to be cloudy and dim. Taking advantage of the natural light when you can is essential to make your home feel welcoming. If you have evening showings, or showings on darker days, lighting from lamps and other light sources should be bright, warm, and welcoming.
Do you have a fireplace? Show it off. A fireplace is still on a lot of buyers' wishlists, so if there ever was a season to show it off, this is it! If at all possible, have your fireplace going when buyers arrive. You could even create a welcoming vignette with an inviting chair, and a cozy blanket nearby as an invitation to step out of the cold and into a welcoming room.
Ready to Move?
For those who are concerned about putting your home on the market in the winter months, don’t be. An experienced REALTOR Ⓡ, is able to adapt to the market and the season to get your home sold. With all that being said, putting your home on the market in the winter months shouldn’t be a deterrent at all, in fact, it could be just the right time for you to get your home sold. The Ask Cathy Team is ready to do just that. We can get your home on the market, sold sooner, and for more money than the average agent in the Kansas City area. Want to know our secrets? Schedule your Listing Consultation with our market-savvy listing team today!2023-11-03T11:00:00-07:002023-12-01T10:09:12-07:00Ask Cathy Marketing Grouptag:askcathy.com,2012-09-20:31563Quick Snacks and Crafts for Halloween! Easy Crafts and Snacks for Halloween!
The Ask Cathy Team has compiled a few ideas to commemorate the Halloween Season! These crafty creations and delightful desserts are just the thing to put you into the Halloween mood with a whole lot more treat than trick! These ideas are a GREAT alternative if you are looking to skip the whole "door to door" outing in the nighttime air, and looking to enjoy something fun right at home!
Included Crafts and Treats are:
Coffee Filter Bats (Craft)
Monster Marshmallow Pops (Treat)
Spooky Spider Plants (Craft)
Skeleton Cupcakes (Treat)
Paper Plate Ghosts (Craft)
Bubbling Witches Cauldron Cookies (Treat)
Pretty Paper Pumpkins (Crafts)
Chocolate Peanut Butter Spider Cookies (Treat)
We hope you enjoy and Happy Halloween!
Looking for a new home with the perfect room to craft and create? We can help! <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/contact/" target="_blank">Connect with us today</a> and let's get you the space you deserve!
On the fence about making a move? Find out your current home value<a href="https://askcathy.hifello.com/lp/6436ad6ae32334001ada8e24" target="_blank"> here! </a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Coffee_Filter_Bats.jpg" width="800" height="2000" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Monster_Marshmallow_Pops.jpg" width="800" height="2000" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/sPOOKY_sPIDER_pLANTS.jpg" width="800" height="2000" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Skeleton_Cupcakes.jpg" width="800" height="2000" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Paper_Plate_Ghosts.jpg" width="800" height="2000" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Cauldron_Cookies.jpg" width="800" height="2000" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Pretty_Paper_Pumpkins.jpg" width="800" height="2000" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Chocolate_Peanut_Butter_Spider_Cookies.jpg" width="800" height="2000" />
We hope that you found these ideas just as fun as we did, and that everything turned out just BOO-tiful!
Are you looking for a new neighborhood to trick or treat in? We can help! Let's connect and find you the best and safest area for your family to enjoy!
2023-10-30T12:59:15-07:002023-12-01T10:14:03-07:00Ask Cathy Marketing Grouptag:askcathy.com,2012-09-20:31515A Brief History of Horror Movies, And Films That Use Silence to Build Suspense!
How Horror Films Got Their Start
Fantastic Horror Movies That Build Suspense Through Silence!
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The first documented film in the horror genre had a viewing length of only 3 minutes and was completely silent.
For those of us who are a bit wary of seeing anything even remotely scary - this could be 3 minutes too long. For those who are true fans of the genre, this brief appetizer wouldn’t even remotely quench your appetite for all things grim and gruesome. However, this particular film, has more hee-haws than horror. Though classified as the first known horror film, (as well as the first vampire movie) “ Le Manoir du Diable” (the Devil’s Manor) was intended to evoke amusement and comic relief instead of fear.
“The Haunted Castle”, as it was called when released in the United States, which you can see here, was classified in the horror genre not for its ability to instill fear but rather due to its cast of characters - the devil, the devil’s attendants, a skeleton, and a man transforming into a bat.
This French silent film was released in 1896 and was directed by film pioneer and illusionist George Melies, who is dubbed the “creator of the cinematic spectacle” having been one of the first film directors to use special effects in terms of substitution splices, dissolves, time lapses, and multiple exposures. Though rudimentary in the various “special effect” techniques, it demonstrates how Melies was creatively using his limited tools and techniques resulting in something fantastically entertaining for that time period. True to form, the very “this could only happen in the movies” real-life occurrence of how a never-before-used special effect was discovered. The technique of one thing turning into another (in this case the skeleton into a bat) was stumbled upon completely by accident by Meilies in 1896, according to Early Cinema.
“In the Autumn of 1896, an event occurred which has since passed into film folklore and changed the way Méliès looked at filmmaking. Whilst filming a simple street scene, Méliès camera jammed and it took him a few seconds to rectify the problem. Thinking no more about the incident, Méliès processed the film and was struck by the effect such an incident had on the scene – objects suddenly appeared, disappeared, or were transformed into other objects.”
As in the vein of other life-changing discoveries made completely by accident (ie: penicillin, x-rays, and chocolate chip cookies), this film technique changed the power of cinema, and undoubtedly horror and fantasy films to come.
Don't be in the dark about the value of your home. Find out what your home is worth in today's market, <a href="https://askcathy.hifello.com/lp/6436ad6ae32334001ada8e24" target="_blank">HERE! </a>
Silence is Golden, and Deadly
In what was referred to as the “Golden Age of Horror”, the 1920’s and 1930’s, marks the true start of the development of films that were less farce and certainly more fearful as the directors began to try their best to instill fear in their audiences. Though still silent in nature, these films certainly paved the way to mark the history of horror films that were to come.
Frankenstein (1910) - This film was one of the earliest silent films to have a “cue sheet” for the accompanying musical score. The cue sheet acted as a trigger for the action to be carried out at a particular time.
The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari (1920) - This German film was released just as foreign film industries were easing restrictions after World War I. Film critic Roger Ebert referred to it as “the first true horror film”.
Nosferatu (1922) - This film was unofficially based on Bram Stoker’s Dracula novel, and cast a particularly creepy main title character.
Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde (1920) Starring John Barrymore and is an adaptation of the 1886 novella Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson.
The Lodger: A Story of the London Fog (1927) - With a plot surrounding a Jack the Ripper-type character, this was Alfred Hitchcock’s first thriller and firmly established his role as a director.
So What Makes a Good Scary Movie?
In a horror movie, some of the scariest moments happen when there is no dialogue at all. The leading musical score, the build-up to an intense moment, and just the hint of something horrible around the corner or down the basement stairs are enough to send chills down your spine.
Writer Lauren Rouse, of Lifehacker.com interviewed Dr. Adam Daniel suggests what he believes are the makings of a good horror film, “I think there are many elements that contribute to a genuinely scary experience, and they are also very subjective. If there is some universality it would be around watching representations of death, illness, and bodily harm – all things we are genetically hardwired to fear outside of film watching.” Dr Daniel is the author of “Affective Intensities and Evolving Horror Forms: From Found Footage to Virtual Reality ”, and also holds a doctorate in film and media. He also writes and creates films in the horror genre himself, so he definitely has some experience in making films audiences want to watch.
In her in-depth interview, Lauren asked Dr Daniel what elements he believed made horror films genuinely scary. These characteristics and reasons behind his opinion include:
The Creation of Dread and Tension
“Dread to me is one of the most powerful emotions horror can create. Tension is of course a central part of that equation. Dread draws the viewer into the film, immersing them in the world of the character. It’s a different emotion from direct horror, in that it’s all about expectations of what is coming, both for the characters and for the viewer.”
The Blurring of Reality and Unreality
“Nowadays viewers are, of course, much more savvy to the tropes of the genre, but there is still a real joy in leaning into the constructed reality and watching these films as if they were real artifacts,” he said.
What is Left Unseen
“Horror film, as a genre, has a long history of manipulating the viewer through the unseen (although sometimes heard) presence of the monster.” Dr Daniel said.
“The unseen taps into the ‘push-pull’ of the desire to look versus our fear in doing so. For me, some of the best horror films are those that strategically withhold the monster, allowing our imaginations to conjure more terrifying bogeymen.”
Strong Identification with the Protagonist
“It’s difficult to create fear and tension if the audience doesn’t care about the characters at the heart of the story,” Dr Daniel said. “The stronger our identification, the more we are willing to vicariously go into the darkest places with these characters.”
The Irrational and Intangible Nature of the Supernatural
“The most intense horror often emerges from a conflict that doesn’t follow the rules of logic or science. This is one reason why the supernatural is such a common source of fear in horror; its unknowable and uncontrollable dimensions can make for the most terrifying antagonists and situations.”
Do you have currently have a super scary basement? Are you looking for one that is more homey and welcome? <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/property-search/search-form/" target="_blank">Start the search for your new home</a> with a more liveable and welcoming basement!
Successful Scares on Screen
So is it possible to embrace the qualities of what is believed to be a “good horror movie” and rely so little on dialogue to carry the plot? According to many successful film releases in the last few decades, the answer is yes.
Many recent film creations have taken the hint from early silent films by leaning on the power of an intense musical score, and very little dialogue to create some particularly sinister and scream-inducing films. Without the crutch of a heavily worded script to set the tone, or assist the audience by describing situations and conveying important information, a film with minimal dialogue allows its watchers to draw their own conclusions in what is sure to happen in a film.
To many what makes a scary film truly grip-inducing is not what is said, but what is suggested by the imagination.
If you would like to enjoy a particularly quiet but scary evening at home, there are some suggestions. Some of these movies run the range from undoubtedly strange to downright diabolical. These films feature some element of silence in them, whether it be an eerily silent killer, or needing to stay quiet to survive! Be warned though, some of these movies are rated R, so make sure to check a parent guide online to see if it is something you want to watch as a family, or if it’s best to have the kiddos watch something more age-appropriate!
The Innkeepers (2011)
Hush (2016)
A Quiet Place (2018)
The Silence (2019)
No One Will Save You (2023)
Whether you watch a film that is eerily still or heavily laden with an intense musical score. One rule in horror film watching will always exist.
Be very, very quiet. You never know who or what will hear you!
Are you a film buff looking to find the perfect home with a media room to hold your own movie screenings? We can help! Connect with us below!
2023-10-27T11:00:00-07:002023-12-01T10:20:03-07:00Ask Cathy Marketing Grouptag:askcathy.com,2012-09-20:31413Advantages of Selling With Low Inventory, and With an Experienced Realtor
Perks of Selling Your Home With the Current Low Inventory
Reasons to Use a Realtor, and Avoid Selling By Yourself
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If you’ve seen any of our recent blog posts talking about the housing market, or are aware of the challenges the housing market is currently facing, you know our current level of inventory is low. In today’s blog, we’ll talk about how this low level of inventory can benefit you as a seller, and why it’s best to work with a Realtor who can ensure that you take advantage of all of those benefits when selling your home, instead of missing out!
Curious as to what your home is currently worth? We can help you <a href="https://askcathy.hifello.com/lp/6436ad6ae32334001ada8e24" target="_blank">get that information here</a>!
Examining Our Current Inventory Levels
Nationwide, inventory is far below the normal levels that we were used to seeing before COVID-19 happened, and the pandemic market took shape. Here in Kansas City, the percentage difference between the inventory of September 2019 versus September of this year, is a 28% decrease in total inventory, according to the Kansas City Regional Association of Realtors. Even comparing September of this year to last year, we’re seeing a 19.4% decrease in total inventory in the Kansas City market.
What the Lack of Inventory Means for You as a Potential Homeseller
Because there is a smaller amount of homes available for sale on the market, you as the seller have several benefits when selling your home because of this decreased pool of sellers. According to the latest data from the National Association of Realtors, 69% of homes nationwide are sold in less than a month, with an average of 2.6 offers for recently sold homes. Here in our Kansas City market, we’re also seeing homes receive an average of 99.2% of the original list price received, which is an increase of 1.2% from the previous year. Because there are fewer homes on the market, qualified buyers are looking for correctly priced homes, and moving quickly to make sure they have the best chance possible at getting their offer selected for the property that meets their needs.
Want to see what homes like yours are on the market for? <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/property-search/search-form/" target="_blank">Set up a property home search here!</a>
Why It's Important to Work With a Professional and Experienced Realtor When Selling Your Home
While there are several advantages to selling your home in our current market, it’s important that you ensure that you are taking advantage of those benefits by working with a professional and experienced Realtor who can help you navigate today’s market. When you sell your home yourself, not only do you have to deal with <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/blog/why-getting-your-listing-price-right-matters-in-todays-market/" target="_blank">pricing your home correctly</a>, but you also have to market your home, and work through the negotiations. When you work with a professional real estate agent, they will assist you with your pricing by doing a comparative market analysis, marketing your home, and assisting you with the negotiations and paperwork once you find a buyer. Here at the Ask Cathy Marketing Group not only do we market your home everywhere potential buyers are searching for homes, our agents are selling for 3 days faster, and for 2% more money than the average agent in our region! If you are interested in scheduling a no-obligation listing consultation, reach out to us at (816) 268-4033, or by filling out the contact form below!2023-10-25T11:00:00-07:002023-12-01T10:23:28-07:00Ask Cathy Marketing Grouptag:askcathy.com,2012-09-20:31380Listing Spotlight: 793 NW 1621 Road, Bates City, MO 64011
Quiet, Country Home Available in the Kansas City Area!
3 Bed | 2.5 Bath | 2,830 Sq Feet
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Dream of living in a quiet, county setting? This home is perfect for you! A true log home nestled on a 3.32 acres in a beautiful neighborhood yet conveniently located. When you first enter, you will immediately notice the huge floor to ceiling windows that open up the Great Room to views of your own grassy, treed acreage property....best views in the neighborhood. The vaulted Great Room includes a wood burning stove and gleaming hardwoods that extend into the kitchen, dining, and Master. The kitchen includes NEW 2023 Stainless Steel appliances/sink, plenty of counter space, Decorative glass cabinets doors, and a huge new walk-in pantry! The dining area provides access to a covered deck for even more stunning views. The Master Suite can be found on the other side, with access to its own private covered deck, and Master Bath with whirlpool tub, walk-in shower, double vanity, and walk-in closet. Main level laundry room with tile, built-ins, and sink! The generous-sized, finished walkout basement offers additional living space and leads to a flex space ideal for work out room with bar, home theater area, hobby room or simply utility garage. Two additional bedrooms (one non-conforming) and a generous-size full bath also in lower level. Outside decks, patio, and gazebo make this the perfect outdoor space ideal for entertaining or relaxing. Additional storage shed can also be found on this property. Wildlife is plentiful here, with the possibility to wake up to a field full of deer in your own backyard! Act fast - this unique property will not last long!
Want to learn more about this listing? <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/property-search/detail/109/2454211/793-nw-1621-rd-bates-city-mo-64011/" target="_blank">View the property on our website for more information</a>, or you can check out the full video tour below, along with some of our favorite photos from this gorgeous home!
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<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/NW_1621_Rd/793NW1621STRD-30.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
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100-Year-Old Homes in the Kansas City Area!
How to Infuse Historic Charm Into Your Home, and More!
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October seems like the perfect month to highlight some of the homes in our area with historic charm and appeal. Homes that have a bit of history, a sense of mystery, and perhaps a story or two to tell of their past owners. Also, think of the possibilities of decorating a historic home during the Halloween season! You may have your very own haunted house in the making!
Let’s explore some of the fantastic homes that are on the market right now in our area, that are over 100 years old and counting. Living in the Kansas City area, we have a rich infusion of many architectural styles, especially for those areas close to our town centers. Some of these homes are stuck in their perfect past condition, while others have been brought into the future with modern renovations. Many have been updated to meet the needs of today’s homeowners while maintaining a bit of their past personality. Did you know that owning a historic home may give you some tax benefits as well? <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.nps.gov/orgs/1739/index.htm&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1701455175959792&usg=AOvVaw2laOmsy2JsmI6TnWEhavMk" target="_blank">There is more information on potential tax credits here.</a>
Have a hankering to own a historic home of your own? The Ask Cathy team is here for it! If you have always dreamed of living in your own piece of history, we would be happy to help you find just the perfect one to make your own history in! Do any of these homes appeal to you? Let us know! Be sure to keep reading below the home search for these next topics:
How to Research Your Own Home's Historic Past
Infusing Historic Charm and Details in Your Own Home
Owning Your Historic Style
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Finding A Home's History
Do you already own a home that could be hiding a fascinating tale or two? Or is there ever a home that you’ve driven by that you’ve always wondered about?
Looking to purchase a home in particular historic neighborhood? Set up a<a href="https://www.askcathy.com/property-search/search-form/" target="_blank"> property search here</a> for the area you have in mind. Better yet, connect with <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/meet-our-team/" target="_blank">our highly skilled Buyers Agents</a> to pinpoint exactly what you are looking for your future "new" historic home!
Here's How to Research a Bit of Your Own Home's Historic Past
There are a number of ways to identify historical traits in your home. One is to identify the type of architectural style. Now, there could be several styles infused together if your home was originally constructed in one style, and a later addition was completed in another. Even the original hardware used in a home can give you a glimpse of the history.
If you have a particularly old home, you can try researching it through your town’s historical society, library archives, or town public records.
Each state also has a Historic Preservation office, which is a great resource for researching if you think that your home, or the home you would like to research is historic in value. <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://mostateparks.com/page/84251/maps-records&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1701455175960088&usg=AOvVaw345XQBZoZDyX8dcbzD26KR" target="_blank"> You can find more information here.</a>
For homes that are currently on the official list of Kansas City Historic places,<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.kcmo.gov/city-hall/departments/city-planning-development/kcmo-historic-register&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1701455175960744&usg=AOvVaw35XGIJ1gbyoK5hbCBbMNEl" target="_blank"> you can find that information here.</a>
Tracing the deed or using old maps, such as the Sanborn maps (for homes built after 1866) can give you an idea of your home's original size, and layout if your home is located in a town center. These maps were originally used to determine insurability for fire, from the Sanborn Company. <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.loc.gov/rr/geogmap/sanborn/&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1701455175960315&usg=AOvVaw3QE_j18jAm3wSEMBbhZFv9" target="_blank">View these maps here.</a>
<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.jacksongov.org/Government/Departments/Collection/Real-Estate-Property-Tax&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1701455175961272&usg=AOvVaw2KPjzRUL4783Csv8SFBGLn" target="_blank">Property Tax Records</a> in your county or town are also a great way to find out the previous owners of a home, and find out if someone historically important lived there.
Curious to what your home is worth in today's market? <a href="https://askcathy.hifello.com/lp/6436ad6ae32334001ada8e24" target="_blank">Follow this link to find out!</a><a href="https://askcathy.hifello.com/lp/6436ad6ae32334001ada8e24" target="_blank"> </a>
Infusing Historic Charm and Details in Your Own Home
If you have a newer build, or a home that was built in this past century, and want to infuse a bit of historic charm into your home, without picking up and moving, there are several ways to accomplish your vision. You can swap out builder-grade, or current features and fixtures for those with more historic aesthetic value or a bit of patina.
If you are unsure as to where to begin, here are a few areas to focus on.
Doors - Switching out basic doors with reclaimed doors is a great way to add texture and originality to your home. If you can include vintage hardware and hinges, even better! Switching out every door can be a bank breaker, so if you have to focus on one or two rooms, a great place to do so is your pantry, laundry room, or bathroom. It will add immediate character.
Lighting - There are quite a few sources for either antique lighting or reproduction lighting. Lighting is an immediate character builder. For sources, try your local antique market or you can find a multitude of reproductions online depending on what you are looking for in your home.
Molding & Beadboard - Adding trim and wood architecture elements is another way to infuse some historic character and charm into your home. Tongue and groove paneling, wainscoting, and beadboard can instantly give a vintage vibe to a room. Beefier, heavier door and window molding adds an immediate focal point to your living spaces.
Vintage Wallpaper - Wallpaper is certainly not for everyone, however, adding a little bit of an exquisite pattern in a vintage style can be just the impact you are looking for. Adding a bit in a powder room, or the back of a bookcase, or on a feature wall behind your headboard in your bedroom can be the perfect touch of historic presence you're looking for in your room.
Home Furnishings and Decor - Perhaps the easiest way to infuse some historic charm, without changing fixtures or features is to choose some period furniture or artwork to add to your home. One trip to the antique store or thrift store can uncover some amazing choices and unique offerings for your home. You don’t have to decorate an entire room strictly with antiques to have it feel authentic, but instead, sprinkle in your antique finds throughout your home for a collected look.
Owning Your Historic Style
Not everyone loves the look of an era gone by, but to others, it is quintessential to the perfect home. It can be an opportunity to breathe new life into your original space, add some drama, or make your home stand out from the rest in a neighborhood of carbon copies. A historic home or one that is reproduced or remedied to look like one, can be just the touch of style and surprise you are looking for in your own home. If your home is an actual antique, or a historic home with a fanciful or fantastic history, that is even better for you history house lovers! The important thing is that you love your home, and all that it is, embracing what you want to change, and the surroundings you are comfortable in.2023-10-23T11:00:00-07:002023-12-01T10:40:35-07:00Ask Cathy Marketing Grouptag:askcathy.com,2012-09-20:31313Common Fears of Home Buying and Selling!
Real Estate Fears and What to Do About Them
The Importance of Working With a Real Estate Professional
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The reality of buying or selling a home can certainly be scary, especially when you haven’t gone through it before. But even for the most experienced homeowners, there is usually a level of uncomfortableness that creeps in whenever you begin to think about moving.
The good news is that this is a completely natural reaction, for the most part. This is a big step, and it is bound to bring some apprehension when it comes to initiating, implementing, and following through. The bad news is that with uncomfortableness comes uncertainty, and without the proper guidance, your feelings of unrest could hinder and perhaps even derail your moving goals.
The Ask Cathy Team is always available to connect with you to answer any questions you have about buying or selling a home. <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/contact/" target="_blank"> Ask a question or schedule a free, no-obligation consultation here! </a>
Different Situations/Similar Struggles
The reasons to move are many. For some, moving is due to an unforeseen circumstance, while for others moving is a choice. You may need to move due to a job change, job loss, family changes, or a new opportunity. You may want to move for additional bedrooms, a better school district, a larger backyard, a shorter commute, or a better neighborhood. Emotions also run the gamut when it comes to the thought of moving - excitement, nervousness, anxiety, and yes, even fear.
Whatever the reason, the decision to move has been made. When this reality settles in, it might be accompanied shortly by a barrage of internal questions.
For the future homebuyer, those questions could look a little like this:
What will my new home be like?
What will the neighborhood look like?
Will I be able to find a home that I love in my price range?
What if the mortgage rates go up?
What if there are surprises in my credit report?
Are there any hidden costs when buying a home?
And there are plenty more where those came from!
For home sellers, the thought of selling the home you lived in for however long, brings up its own unique worries and uncertainties. Again, moving may be a choice, or it might be due to no decision of your own. With home sellers, their fear and worry might be twofold, as they could be both selling their current home and buying a new one. For them, there are all the above-mentioned fears, as well as some additional ones.
Their internal monologue may sound like this:
What do I do first, sell my current home, or find the home I want to buy?
What if I find a new home I love, and my current home hasn't sold? What then?
What if I lose the home I love while waiting for my current home to sell?
What if a problem I wasn't expecting comes up with my current home during inspections?
What if I don't get the price I want for the home I am selling?
Again these are just a few of the fears that home sellers can feel when thinking of selling their home or preparing their home to sell.
Do any of the fears mentioned sound or feel familiar? If you’ve ever purchased or sold a home, at least one or two of them likely sound familiar. In each situation, it is only natural to be concerned about a number of things, and you can either let the worry take hold and control the situation, or you can start to look for answers, support, and some resolutions.
Experience When It Counts The Most
So who do you turn to for help and reassurance? The logical reaction may be to immediately head to the internet, or look for guidance from a friend or family member who has been through a similar situation. It is definitely easy to fall into the rabbit hole of searching the internet, but how do you know what sources to trust? Deciding who to use to guide you through one of the largest financial decisions of your life is not an easy decision. The importance of working with a trusted professional is paramount. This is where the need for an experienced Realtor Ⓡ comes into play. Under the guidance and direction of your experienced Realtor Ⓡ, you can find answers to many of those questions, or at least alleviate some of your worries. It is imperative to work with someone who has sold more than a handful of homes, and who has been through many different real estate transactions, so that they can anticipate everything you are going through, and offer not only words of comfort, but actual experience to back their answers up. Anyone can give you reassurance when it comes to an impending worry, but when it is backed up with years of practical experience, it makes you feel a whole lot better, and certainly more reassured.
For every individual and each transaction, the answers and consolation you will receive for each of your questions will be dependent on your circumstances surrounding the move, but certainly working with a Realtor Ⓡ that you trust, and that has a fantastic transaction track record is key.
This Realtor Ⓡ or team should also:
Have familiarity in neighborhoods and school districts, and any location you will be looking in.
Have experience in competitive negotiations and know exactly how to handle different market conditions, and how to best use your strengths as a buyer to get the home you are searching for.
Knowledge of the way the market works, where it has been, and where it could be heading, in order to help you with expert negotiations and purchasing the best home for you, or selling your home to the best buyer possible.
Know exactly how to vet and filter potential buyers of your home, so that you are presented with only the best buyers for your home.
Have a variety of marketing tactics under their sleeve, in order to market your home effectively, leading you to the highest amount for your home. Better yet, have a dedicated marketing team, doing their utmost for your home.
Have the ability to represent you in repair and concession negotiations, on either the buying or the selling side.
Curious to see what your home is worth in today's market? <a href="https://askcathy.hifello.com/lp/6436ad6ae32334001ada8e24" target="_blank">Find that information here! </a>
Experience and Resources on Your Side
A well-respected and professional Realtor Ⓡ will also have a lot of great people in their corner. In their years of experience, they will have created relationships with a number of professionals who assist in their business. This, in turn, will only be a benefit to you as well. Their resources will be your resources should you choose to work with them.
Lenders - They will have a few trusted local lenders who will go the extra mile for you in finding a great rate and comfortable terms, as well as have a great reputation for closing a loan on time. These are lenders that will return your calls promptly, and not just some voice from another state or a nameless, faceless internet presence.
Home Inspectors - They will have worked with a number of area home inspection companies, and know the ones that do their due diligence on thoroughly inspecting a home, and who won’t overlook any issues just to get the home to close.
Repair People - They will also have good tradespeople who can help with repairs needed as a result of a home inspection.
Estate Sale Professionals and Household Movers - Reliable mover recommendations for handling your worldly goods in transit. For the items you are looking to disperse or dispose of, this is where their estate sale contacts come in, should you choose this direction.
Cleaning Professionals - They will also know of cleaning professionals who can help with cleaning after a move-out, or before a move-in.
An Informed Decision
Who you choose to represent you in buying, selling, or buying and selling a home at the same time, is absolutely your personal choice. Being in the business for well over 20 years (and more than 100 years combined experience!) We've seen our fair share of the aftermath of what happens when you work with an agent with less experience or less market knowledge. We would never wish that on you in a million years. Where you are going to live is such an important decision. There is truth to the saying that home is where the heart is. Your home is your “home base”, your safe place, where you go for refuge, respite, and relaxation. It is the center where you build your life. Your job and salary fund the home, and it is where your family, four-legged besties, and all of your earthly possessions reside. Simply put, it is important. Not only that, this is a HUGE financial commitment, most likely the largest one you will ever make in your life, and one you have undoubtedly saved for and dreamed about. Chances are you don’t go buying or selling a home every day, so you want to get it right.
The thing is, the Ask Cathy team, DOES help our clients buy and sell homes, every single day. We do hundreds of home closings each and every year! But don’t take just our word for it. Look to our clients. We have amassed well over 850 5-star reviews on Google, Facebook, etc, so we definitely have the experience, the fortitude, and the know-how to get it right, for you. If you are thinking of buying or selling a home in the near future, contact us today by calling us at (816) 268-4033, or by filling out the contact form below!2023-10-20T11:00:00-07:002023-12-01T10:46:40-07:00Ask Cathy Marketing Grouptag:askcathy.com,2012-09-20:31261How the Housing Market Affects Inflation Nationwide
What Kind of an Impact Does Housing Have on Measures of Inflation?
Explaining the Shelter Index, OER, and More!
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The battle against inflation is far from over, as the Federal Reserve is still measuring whether its rate hikes have done enough to effectively tame inflation, and bring it down to its 2% goal. We’ll cover whether the Fed will decide to increase rates again, or whether they will decide to pause their rate hikes in another post down the line. Today, we’ll be discussing how the housing market factors into the measurement of inflation, and why the housing market is one of the last dominos to potentially fall on the road to the 2% inflation goal.
Curious to see how this market has affected your home's value? <a href="https://askcathy.hifello.com/lp/6436ad6ae32334001ada8e24" target="_blank"> Find out how much your home is worth here.</a>
How Does the Housing Market Impact Inflation?
The Fed measures inflation through several key inflation indicators, including the Consumer Price Index, or CPI. One of the primary contributors to that CPI, is the shelter component. Last month, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, which releases the CPI, the shelter index was the largest contributor to the CPI, remaining at the same level as it was in August, instead of potentially decreasing month over month. Overall, the shelter index accounted for over half of the monthly increase in inflation measured in the CPI. EY’s chief economist, Gregory Daco, said that the shelter increase was, <a href="https://finance.yahoo.com/news/housing-costs-again-frustrate-the-feds-efforts-to-curb-inflation-155809253.html#:~:text=%22It%20was%20larger%20than%20expected%2C%22%20EY%20chief%20economist%20Gregory%20Daco%20said%20about%20the%20shelter%20index%20increase.%20%22It%27s%20a%20category%20that%20I%20would%20expect%20and%20I%20still%20expect%20to%20show%20more%20disinflationary%20momentum.%22" target="_blank">“larger than expected”, and that, “It’s a category that I would expect and I still expect to show more disinflationary momentum”.</a>
The CPI as a whole is broken up into 8 major categories.
Food and Beverages
Housing
Apparel
Transportation
Medical Care
Recreation
Education and Communication
Other Goods and Services
The core CPI, discounting the relatively volatile prices of food and energy, is a good indicator of underlying core inflation, <a href="https://www.bls.gov/opub/hom/cpi/concepts.htm#:~:text=Additionally%2C%20for%20analytical,and%20energy%20prices" target="_blank">according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics website.</a>
What Components Make Up the Shelter Index of the CPI
Now that we’ve established what the CPI is, and how the shelter component has impacted the latest measurement, we can discuss what actually makes up the shelter index of the CPI. Referencing the BLS website, the shelter index is largely made up of owners’ equivalent rent of residences (OER), and rent of primary residence. Additionally, lodging away from home, and tenants’ and household insurance also contribute in small part to the shelter index. Put simply, owners’ equivalent rent is a measure of what homeowners estimate that their properties would rent for, unfurnished, and without utilities, <a href="https://www.investopedia.com/terms/o/owners-equivalent-rent.asp#:~:text=What%20Is%20Owners%27%20Equivalent%20Rent%20(OER)%3F" target="_blank">according to Investopedia</a>. The BLS uses this as a measure to gauge the real estate market, along with factoring in the rent of primary residence to calculate the shelter index of the CPI. OER is commonly linked to inflation, as the shelter index and OER are largely affected by home price changes, interest rates, property taxes, and other broader economic factors.
An Interesting Effect of the Fed's Battle Against Inflation
As mentioned above, a large contributor to the measurement of OER is home prices nationwide. Nationwide, however, home prices have remained elevated, as mortgage rates have kept many potential home sellers from listing their homes on the market, causing the prices of homes on the market to stay at an increased level. While the Fed’s benchmark interest rate does not directly affect mortgage rates, it does directly affect the lending institutions that provide mortgages nationwide. This means that the Fed, as a byproduct of their attempt to tame inflation by raising their benchmark interest rate, has partially contributed to the increase in the shelter component of the CPI, a measure of their success in battling inflation. Lawrence Yun, chief economist at the National Association of Realtors, <a href="https://www.nar.realtor/magazine/real-estate-news/economy/nar-economist-housing-recession-is-over#:~:text=%E2%80%9CIt%20is%20critical%20to%20expand%20supply%20as%20much%20as%20possible%20to%20widen%20access%20to%20home%20buying%20for%20more%20Americans%2C%E2%80%9D%20Yun%20says.%20%E2%80%9CHome%20prices%20will%20be%20influenced%20by%20how%20much%20inventory%20is%20brought%20to%20market" target="_blank">said in a July news release that</a>, “It is critical to expand supply as much as possible to widen access to home buying for more Americans. Home prices will be influenced by how much inventory is brought to the market”.
Want to see what homes are currently on the market? <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/property-search/search-form/" target="_blank">Seach for current available here. </a>
Shelter Index Outlook Moving Forward
Thankfully, however, there is light at the end of the tunnel as far as the battle against inflation is concerned. <a href="https://finance.yahoo.com/news/housing-costs-again-frustrate-the-feds-efforts-to-curb-inflation-155809253.html#:~:text=For%20instance%2C%20rents%20in%20September%20nearly%20flattened%20out%2C%20rising%20a%20muted%200.1%25%20compared%20to%20the%20same%20period%20last%20year%2C%20according%20to%20RealPage.%20For%20perspective%2C%20the%20annual%20growth%20rate%20stood%20at%209%25%20a%20year%20ago" target="_blank">Rent growth has had a steep deceleration since the middle of last year, and grew at only a 0.1% rate in September, compared to a 9% increase just the year before.</a> <a href="https://finance.yahoo.com/news/housing-costs-again-frustrate-the-feds-efforts-to-curb-inflation-155809253.html#:~:text=%22So%20I%27m%20actually%20encouraged%2C%20paradoxically%2C%20by%20the%20fact%20that%20a%20big%20part%20of%20the%20increase%20in%20core%20inflation%20was%20driven%20by%20shelter%2C%22%20Daco%20said%2C%20%22because%20I%20expect%20that%20category%20will%20show%20more%20disinflationary%20momentum%20in%20the%20coming%20months%20given%20what%20we%27ve%20seen%20in%20real%20time.%22" target="_blank">Daco noted when talking to Yahoo Finance</a> that he was encouraged when looking at the shelter index of the CPI, noting that, “I expect that category will show more disinflationary momentum in the coming months given what we’ve seen in real time”.
Looking to Buy or Sell a Home? Contact the Ask Cathy Marketing Group Today!
If you are thinking of buying or selling a home in the near future, or have any questions about the process, contact a member of our team today! Our agents have decades of experience working in the real estate industry, and always find a way to win for our buyers and sellers. Contact a member of our team today by giving us a call at (816) 268-4033, or by filling out the contact form below!2023-10-18T11:00:00-07:002023-12-01T10:54:00-07:00Ask Cathy Marketing Grouptag:askcathy.com,2012-09-20:31157Ask Cathy Client Appreciation Day: Pumpkin Patch 2023!
Recapping All the Fun At Our Latest Day at the Pumpkin Patch!
We love our clients! More so, we love to spend some quality time with all of them! So this past October weekend, our team hosted our annual Pumpkin Patch Client Appreciation Event at Faulkner's Ranch! Even though the weather was a bit damp and chilly, over 500 of our extended Ask Cathy Family - past, present, and future came out to enjoy the fun!
We've included some of our favorite photos below, but make sure to check out our recap video below as well!
Curious about how much your home is worth in today's market? <a href="https://askcathy.hifello.com/lp/6436ad6ae32334001ada8e24" target="_blank"> Find out here</a> and then give us a call!
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Check-in is always fun as we get to catch up with those we haven't seen in a while! Sometimes hugs are definitely involved!
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Always at the ready with answers to every question is our VP of Operations, Alicia Hodges, pictured here with Senior Agent, Darlene Peterson, and Listings Manager, Sarah Cox.
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Shelly Rampetsreiter, VP of New Construction and Listing Specialist, did an incredible job as our official greeter and head check-in person! <br /><br />
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Faulkner's Ranch would not be complete without seeing all the kiddos. We look forward to seeing each and every one of our future "Ask Cathy" clients!
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Our clients know us well, we ALWAYS have the snacks at our events! <img src="/res/tiny_mce/plugins/emotions/img/smiley-wink.gif" alt="Wink" title="Wink" border="0" style="text-align: center;" />
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VP of the Buyers Division, Mike Hodges, telling the tales of home buying!
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Racquel Flora, our newest Listing and Buyer Specialist, invited all of her happy clients to enjoy the festivities!
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Josh Farmer is also a great addition to our Ask Cathy Buyers Team, and the pumpkin patch was his first Ask Cathy event!
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Senior Agent and New Homes Specialist, Allison Lackey was the perfect fall picture in her cozy flannel and hat with a smile that warmed up everyone!
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We love taking pictures with our clients! Seeing everyone's smiling faces is one of the reasons we LOVE our job!
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Shelly and Allison, our FAVORITE Ask Cathy sister duo!
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Buyers Agent Angie Gonzalez took this opportunity to get a great group shot, that included Senior Agent, Darlene Peterson. "Everybody say Pumpkin!"
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Cathy and Listings Manager, Sarah Cox bid you "Until next year!" Thank you to all of our extended Ask Cathy Family who came out to have fun at the farm with us. It is truly a pleasure to spend a fun day with all of you! Do we have your current email and phone? Make sure we do so that we can invite you to our next Client Appreciation event! Connect with us below! 2023-10-16T14:00:00-07:002023-12-01T10:56:09-07:00Ask Cathy Marketing Grouptag:askcathy.com,2012-09-20:31099The Spooky History Behind Friday the 13th!
Unpacking the History Behind This Superstitious Day!
Origins, Mythology, and More!
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Today is the day, Friday the 13th! Insert suspenseful music here (dum dum DUM!)
The phrase alone can bring an element of uneasiness and dread to even the least superstitious of us. This is the day on which people react in many different ways. Some are completely unbothered. They go about their lives like it is any other day, living their lives, going to work, going out, and so on. After all, it is just an ordinary day, isn’t it?
There are also those, the “just in case-ers” as we could call them. Where an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. You may not completely change your normal routine, but you do change it up a bit. “Maybe I’ll make coffee at home instead of driving out of the way to get one. I might stay in tonight instead of going out.” The people that think….why tempt fate, the gods, or whatever your deity of choice is. They insert a little more caution into their day–because, after all, you never know. Right?
Then there are those who take advantage of the particular day and look to create mischief and use the day as an excuse. Pranks and mishaps are looked at as coincidence. Much like a full moon which is sometimes blamed for permission to behave badly, there are those who take advantage of these particular dates when they occur.
To others, it is much more powerful than that. Its occurrence creates a real and powerful reaction. The day for them is filled with superstition, dread, and fear. Changes are made to their ordinary lives. Special care is taken to avoid certain things. Some people, who are highly superstitious, don’t leave their homes at all. Those are the people who are afflicted by what is called “Triskaidekaphobia” - the fear of Friday the 13th. The word comes from ancient Greek and translates to “fear of the number 13”.
As far-fetched as something like that sounds to the naysayers of the world, it is a legitimate fear that affects millions of people in the world, though it readily goes undiagnosed. Stephen King, the famed horror author, is said to be one who suffers from Triskaidekaphobia. According to an interview with <a href="https://www.shortlist.com/news/20-things-you-probably-didnt-know-about-stephen-king" target="_blank">Shortlist.com</a>, King states, “The number 13 never fails to trace that old icy finger up and down my spine. When I'm writing, I'll never stop work if the page number is 13 or a multiple of 13; I'll just keep on typing till I get to a safe number. I always take the last two steps on my back stairs as one, making 13 into 12. There were after all 13 steps on the English gallows up until 1900 or so. When I'm reading, I won't stop on page 94, 193, or 382, since the sums of these numbers add up to 13.”
Occurrence
Friday the 13th occurs at least once a year, up to three times a year depending on the calendar. It is especially spooky when the day falls within the month of October, which in and of itself houses the spookiest of days–All Hallows Eve (otherwise known as Halloween), and el Día de los Muertos (The Day of the Dead).
For a little trivia, 2026 will be particularly unlucky with a total of THREE Fridays the 13th in store for that year (February, March, November), though our next Friday the 13th during the month of October will not occur until 2028!
Want to know when the best time is to buy or sell a home? <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/contact/" target="_blank">Connect with the Ask Cathy Team</a> for your personal consultation!
Origins
So what is the origin of this fear of Friday the 13th? Why is there so much superstition surrounding that day, and the number 13?
All research points to a few origins, though one of the most common has Biblical roots. It is, of course, <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%2026&version=NIV" target="_blank">widely documented</a> that at the Last Supper, there were 13 guests at a table. Twelve apostles and Jesus. One of the apostles, Judas, would eventually betray Jesus and play a large role in his crucifixion. Jesus was then crucified on a Friday. (Friday was supposedly the day that Eve gave Adam the apple, and the day that Cain killed his brother Abel.)
There is also the story in Norse Mythology. The Norse gods were having a banquet for 12 in Valhalla when Loki, one of the evil gods, gate-crashed the party. Balder was the god of light, joy, and reconciliation. He had a blind brother whom Loki tricked into throwing a sprig of mistletoe on Balder's chest which killed him. Mistletoe is the only earthly thing that was fatal to Balder. After Balder’s death, the whole Earth became dark and fell into mourning. This event caused the number 13 to be considered unlucky in Norse Mythology.
Opinions
So is Friday the 13th unlucky? Is there a statistical reason to uphold people’s superstitions?
<a href="https://www.nationalgeographic.com/science/article/what-is-friday-13th-superstition-facts-science" target="_blank">According to numerologists</a>, the number 12 is a "complete" number. There are 12 months in a year, 12 signs of the zodiac, 12 gods of Olympus, 12 labors of Hercules, 12 tribes of Israel, and 12 apostles of Jesus. So as a complete number, the next number in sequential order’s (13) association with bad luck “has to do with just being a little beyond completeness. The number becomes restless or squirmy," according to <a href="http://www1.udel.edu/udmessenger/vol17no2/stories/research_dr13.html" target="_blank">Thomas Fernsler</a>, an associate policy scientist in the Mathematics and Science Education Resource Center at the University of Delaware in Newark. He remarks that the number 13 suffers because of its position after 12. Even in a deck of Tarot Cards, which are believed by some to be a window into things to come, the number 13 card is death and misfortune.
<a href="https://www.nationalgeographic.com/science/article/what-is-friday-13th-superstition-facts-science" target="_blank">According to National Geographic Magazine</a>, Jane Risen, a behavioral scientist at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, has found that superstitions can influence even nonbelievers. In one 2016 study, Risen found that people who identify as superstitious and non-superstitious both believe a bad outcome is more likely when they've been jinxed. For example, they worry that stating they definitely won't get into a car accident will make it more likely to happen.
“Generally speaking, I find that this occurs because the bad outcome springs to mind and is imagined more clearly following the jinx,” she explains. “People use the ease of imagining something as a cue to its likelihood.”
<a href="https://thenewswheel.com/is-it-more-dangerous-to-drive-on-friday-the-13th/" target="_blank">According to a 1993 assessment in the British Medical Journal</a>, an increase was found in transportation accidents by as much as 52% on Fridays dated 13, with researchers recommending staying home on that day. A UK insurance company found a higher-than-average number of claims for car accidents on that date. However in subsequent studies, like one conducted by the <a href="https://www.cbsnews.com/losangeles/news/auto-club-lower-chance-of-a-fatal-car-crash-on-unlucky-friday-the-13th/" target="_blank">Automobile Club in California, it was actually found that there were no more deaths on Friday the 13th from 2002 to 2009 than on comparable Fridays</a>. Also, a study carried out by the <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-luck-odd/friday-13th-not-more-unlucky-study-shows-idUSHER25778420080612" target="_blank">Dutch Centre for Insurance Statistics</a> speculated that driving on Friday the 13th was actually safer than normal because of all the people avoiding the roads.
However, under the “better to be safe than sorry category,” there are many businesses (like construction companies who avoid using a 13th floor or including the number 13 in many addresses) who try to avoid the number’s potentially “unlucky” factor. Airlines such as Ryan Air, Air France, Lufthansa, and Virgin Atlantic also avoid the number 13. For instance, there is no Row 13 on any of these airlines’ planes. The number 13 was not used in the <a href="https://simpleflying.com/aircraft-row-13/#:~:text=In%20motorsports%2C%20in%20particular%2C%20the%20number%2013%20was%20avoided%20like%20the%20plague%20for%20many%20years.%20The%20number%2013%20was%20not%20used%20in%20the%20Indianapolis%20500%20between%201915%20and%202002%20and%20Formula%20One%20between%201977%20and%202013" target="_blank">Indianapolis 500</a> between 1915 and 2002 and Formula One between 1977 and 2013. (Lufthansa also avoids the number 17, because in Italy and Brazil, 17 (not 13) is considered unlucky. Some believe that this <a href="https://www.thoughtco.com/unlucky-friday-the-17th-3972380" target="_blank">belief started in Ancient Rome</a>. When the number 17 is viewed as the Roman numeral XVII, and then changed anagrammatically to VIXI, it reminds Italians of the Latin language phrase that translates to "I have lived," which can be understood as "My life is over."
Observance and Reverence
Fear is an emotion, and it is likely embedded and influenced by your personal belief systems and what you were brought up to believe. To have a fear or a superstition (whether real or imagined) have power over you is something that everyone needs to decide for themselves. Fear and superstition only have the power that each of us gives it.
Much like hoping a black cat doesn’t walk across your path, or avoiding walking under ladders, many of these negative omens can be traced back to earlier times when fear was a way to keep people in line. Superstitions and fear led a lot of people into hysteria and irrational action–Salem Witch Trials, anyone? Right or wrong, belief is a powerful action, and can be used in both positive and negative directions.
Don't let superstition or fear keep you from buying or selling a home. With<a href="https://www.askcathy.com/meet-our-team/" target="_blank"> the Ask Cathy Team</a> on your side, we rely on proven decades of experience, not luck - to get you the best resolution when buying or selling. Connect with us today!
Are the odds in your favor with your home value? See how much your home is worth <a href="https://askcathy.hifello.com/lp/6436ad6ae32334001ada8e24" target="_blank">here! </a>2023-10-13T11:00:00-07:002023-12-01T11:50:16-07:00Ask Cathy Marketing Grouptag:askcathy.com,2012-09-20:31057Factors That Lenders Use to Determine Your Mortgage
Ways That Lenders Calculate Your Mortgage Loan
Credit History, DTI, and More!
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When looking to buy a home, whether you are a first-time buyer, or a current homeowner, odds are that you are going to need to secure a mortgage loan to finance your new home. If you are a first-time home buyer, you may be unfamiliar with the mortgage loan process, and the steps that your lender takes to determine your mortgage loan amount. We’ll go over the different factors, and checks that your lender will do to verify the loan type and amount they are willing to provide you for your new home.
If you currently own a home and are curious about it's current value, <a href="https://askcathy.hifello.com/lp/6436ad6ae32334001ada8e24" target="_blank">find that information here. </a>
Credit Score
One of the most important checks that your lender will do, is running a credit score check. Your credit score is based on your payment history, and your borrowing behavior. A higher credit score means that you have a consistent payment history, and solid borrowing history, whereas a lower score means your payment history and borrowing behavior are viewed as somewhat inconsistent, which could cause your lender to have some hesitancy in providing you with a larger mortgage loan amount. The higher your credit score, the more likely it is that you will receive a lower interest rate, and can secure a conventional mortgage loan. Thankfully, if you do not have the necessary credit score for a conventional loan, there are a multitude of programs that you can utilize that have less strict credit score requirements, like FHA, USDA, or VA loans, which are all backed by the federal government.
Your Debt-to-Income Ratio
Your debt-to-income ratio, also known as your DTI, is the amount of debt you currently hold versus your monthly gross income. Typically speaking, for a conventional loan, you will want to make sure your DTI is less than 40-43%, while some other lenders follow the 28/36 rule, which is that you should not spend more than 28% of your gross monthly income on housing, and that you should spend no more than 36% of that same gross monthly income on all of your monthly debt payments, including your mortgage payment. Lenders want to verify that your income is large enough to cover the cost of your mortgage payment comfortably versus your other monthly debt payments. Use this<a href="https://www.askcathy.com/buyers/mortgage-calculator/" target="_blank"> free mortgage calculator</a> to estmate your monthly payment.
Work History
Along with verifying that you have the income to pay your mortgage every month alongside any other monthly debt payments, your lender will also want to check your work history to verify your income, and to verify that you have a stable job as well to continue affording that monthly mortgage payment. Lender requirements vary, but you will typically want to be employed for at least two years and have proof of steady income from that position.
Down Payment Amount
In addition to the factors listed above, it's important to factor in the size of your down payment as well when looking at the type of mortgage loan you can qualify for. Although you might have heard that a 20% down payment is required, it certainly isn’t. The reason you might have heard that 20% is a requirement when looking at the down payment, is that having a 20% or more down payment means that you don’t have to pay private mortgage insurance, or PMI. PMI typically costs 0.5%-1% of your loan amount each year, and you pay that PMI until you owe less than 80% of the home’s value. However, you do not have to put down that 20% down payment to receive a mortgage loan. Typically speaking, you can still qualify for a conventional loan with a 5% or higher down payment, and other loan programs, like FHA loans, even allow a 3.5% down payment.
Value of the Property
Assessing the value and condition of the property you are looking to obtain a mortgage for is typically one of the last steps of the mortgage process. Your lender will want to make sure that the home you are buying is in good condition, and that the appraised value of the home is worth your mortgage loan amount.
Looking to Find a Home AND a Reputable Mortgage Lender? Contact Us Today!
If you are looking to buy a home in the near future, contact a member of our team today to schedule a complimentary, no-obligation buyer consultation with one of our experienced and professional Realtors Ⓡ today!<a href="https://www.askcathy.com/meet-our-team/" target="_blank"> </a><a href="https://www.askcathy.com/meet-our-team/" target="_blank">Our agents</a> have decades of experience buying and selling homes and are familiar with every step of the home-buying process. Our trusted mortgage lenders are local, and extremely knowledgeable, and experienced in the mortgage industry, and can get you the loan you need to buy the best home for you and your family. Contact us at any time by calling us at (816) 268-4033, or by filling out the contact form below!2023-10-11T11:00:00-07:002023-12-01T14:07:50-07:00Ask Cathy Marketing Grouptag:askcathy.com,2012-09-20:31018The Art of Death Cleaning
Not Loss, But Living: Death Cleaning
What to Know About This Swedish Style of Home Organization!
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By now, you may have heard of Marie Kondo, the Japanese organizing consultant, and her solution to decluttering,” The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up”. Her main concept is to only keep items in your home that “ Spark Joy”. You remove those that don’t make you happy out of your life and find everything that remains a proper place in your home.
What you may NOT have heard of is Margareta Magnusson’s uniquely different approach, “The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning: How to Free Yourself and Your Family From a Lifetime of Clutter.”
A Lifetime of clutter. That is a particularly daunting phrase, isn’t it? Indeed. More on that later.
What Exactly is Death Cleaning?
Death Cleaning simply put is dealing with your stuff early on, before there is a necessity or before you pass away. Magnuasson’s book foreword really sets the tone for the motivation behind this decluttering approach:
"The only thing we know for sure is that we will die one day... Let me help make your loved ones' memories of you nice - instead of awful."
The process of death cleaning offers one a chance to reflect on the contents of your home in a meaningful way – then to decide whether to keep something or to let it go, in one form or another.
Even though this sounds like a perfectly reasonable approach, putting it into motion is not always as easy as it sounds.
Dealing With Loss
As all of us on the Ask Cathy Team know firsthand, losing someone in and of itself, is hardship enough. Losing someone close to you - a parent, a grandparent, a sibling,…these are all events that are indescribable, and the word hardship doesn’t even come close to being the right word.
Anytime there is a loss, there is so much to do - prepare and take care of. One thing turns into another, into another. It is a highly emotional time as well. Feelings run high and deep, and in-the-moment decisions can sometimes cause rifts that may be beyond repair. Imagine having to deal with an entire lifetime of home contents and personal belongings of your loved one. Having to sort, divide, and dispose of a person’s entire inventory. Feelings of being overwhelmed by the sheer process and magnitude can lead to feelings of guilt, discomfort, and adversity for all involved. Death Cleaning is a way to lessen the burden and eliminate some highly emotionally charged conversations left to your loved ones.
Holding On
Amassing a “lifetime of clutter” is something that undoubtedly most of us are guilty of. In regards to amassing stuff, people tend to fall into three categories:
Those who hold
Those who let go
Those who have the ability to hold and let go easily
Even if you don’t have a lot of stuff, we all hold onto something. For those of us who are “holders” giving up the items we currently own can be a challenge. Letting go of items you love, and that are important to you can be uncomfortable and sometimes painful. They are important to you, which is why you have them in the first place. They could be great amazing items, that “spark joy” to you, but sadly could be a burden to those around you, after you are no longer able to take care of or maintain them, or after you are gone.
What Happens When You Hold On Too Long
We all hold on for a number of reasons and don’t let go for many others. The thought of giving up stuff for holders is uncomfortable, to say the least. There could be some deeply emotional reasons for keeping the items you have around you perpetually. While in the immediate time frame, holding on may not seem like it causes any issues, in the event that something does happen, what you leave behind could have a profound effect. The aftermath of what is left behind will not have an impact on your life but on those around you.
Loss may not even deal with death. It could be the loss in another form - dementia, mobility, health decline, or the loss of independence. With these life stages, there are just as many things to deal with, and sometimes more.
By embracing death cleaning, when you are able, and in good health, means that there are no questions about what you leave behind.
When dealing with a loved one’s home contents, many questions emerge:
Why did they keep this?
Where is this item?
Is this valuable?
What would they want to be done with this?
Who does this belong to?
Who should this go to?
Dealing with treasured items upfront makes the eventual process so much easier on all involved and takes out the guesswork.
Sometimes the burden of dealing with someone’s estate comes down to one or two people. Sometimes there are feelings that are hurt. Sometimes valuable items get overlooked or thrown away. Sometimes the loved ones' intentions for an item never come to fruition. By dealing with it now, it is in your power to alleviate ALL OF THAT. You can be in control before you are no longer able to be in control due to illness, dementia, or death.
Not Loss, But Living
There are many benefits to considering Death Cleaning. It might sound a bit morbid to think about what happens to your stuff after the inevitable, but in reality, it might be a sort of comfort and an achievement that you can be proud of. Not only is it making life, after your life easier for those around you and those you love - it also can have a profound effect on your life now. Having a lot of stuff can become a burden. Having too much stuff is overwhelming even for the most organized of us. The weight of stuff, while it doesn’t necessarily physically hold you down, it most certainly holds you down figuratively. Dealing with those items that are weighing on you in the literal sense, can help emotionally unburden you.
In Magnusson's approach, death cleaning is:
Not meant to be sad, it's meant to be a time of remembering and sharing of memories and physical objects.
Meant to be an act of love and service for your loved ones, so that in their grief, they won't need to death clean.
Meant to be an empowering time to let go of items and memories that you choose not to hold on to anymore.
Meant to be a celebration of abundance and gratitude.
When putting Death Cleaning into practice, ask yourself:
"Will anyone I know be happier if I save this?"
Simply put, dealing with your stuff now - long before you are at a point where it is a must instead of a choice, is a gift. A gift to those you love, those you leave behind, and yourself. You want your loved ones to “Inherit nice things, not all things”.
Other Practices of Death Cleaning Are:
Invite people to come over and tell you what items they would like to have once you are gone.
Younger relatives come to "shop" for necessities for their first home or apartment
Putting things up for sale
Gifting personal recipes and the stories behind them instead of cookbooks
Downsizing sentimental items like photos and journals
Labeling pictures and identifying those in them
Inviting people to take things every time they come to visit
Starting a throwaway box
Having the Hard Conversation
If you are dealing with aging parents or loved ones now might be a good opportunity to start the conversation about the contents of their home. For some, this could be a particularly emotionally charged conversation, so be gentle. If they aren’t ready, bring it up at a later time, but don’t put it off indefinitely.
Dealing with some items now and again can have a positive impact on all those involved. It lets them be able to see their loved items being enjoyed by their intended recipients while they are still living.
Even if they do not give many things away now, they have the opportunity to write down why an item is important to them and why they eventually want the intended person to have it. It makes it special and more meaningful on both accounts.
This is also an opportunity to invite people to let you know what items are special to them, and why they would like it as a memento to you. Sometimes what you think is sentimental to a person is not what is actually sentimental or useful to them.
Spending time together making plans for certain items, can lead to many conversations you will be able to look back on and treasure.
In Closing
There is no need to be in Camp Kondo or Camp Magnusson. Both Marie’s and Margareta’s approaches can certainly live congruently with one another. Choosing to keep things now that spark joy will make your death cleaning at the appropriate time a whole lot easier, for everyone.
You should live your best life now, while you are able. Perhaps that best life means moving - to something smaller, or a floorplan that better suits aging in place. To see homes that are currently on the market, here is our<a href="https://www.askcathy.com/property-search/search-form/" target="_blank"> property search page</a>.
You may also be dealing with parents or loved ones who may need assistance in their future home life as well. When that time comes, the Ask Cathy Team is ready and able to help you make a plan for the future, whether it is about your home, or an aging parent, we have years of experience in selling homes for families with loved ones who can no longer take care of themselves. We are here to help guide you through life's major changes. We are ready to assist you with finding a home to downsize in, or maybe a property better suited for multi-generational living in more your style. During whatever process is the best for you, we have multiple resources at our disposal. Estate sale companies, movers, repair people, etc - an entire network of people ready to help make the next step in life as smooth as possible.
One of the first step when it comes to selling a home is to find out what it is worth. <a href="https://askcathy.hifello.com/lp/6436ad6ae32334001ada8e24" target="_blank">You can find an estimate here.</a> When you are ready to talk about your future plans, we are here for you. <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/contact/" target="_blank"> Please connect with us </a>to answer any of your questions. 2023-10-09T11:30:00-07:002023-12-01T14:24:20-07:00Ask Cathy Marketing Grouptag:askcathy.com,2012-09-20:30986The Scary Truth About Home Inspections!
Spooky Things That Could Turn Up During a Home Inspection!
Home Inspection Steps, Importance, and More!
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Congratulations! You’ve made it through the critical step of having a contract accepted on what will be your brand-new home! You may have persevered through multiple contracts, counteroffer negotiations, and other hurdles to get you this far.
The scary part is over, right?
Well, hold your headless horses - you are about to embark on what some perceive to be the scariest part of the home-buying process - the home inspection. Home inspections, especially for the first-time homebuyer, can seem more frightening than walking in a graveyard at midnight on Halloween night.
Want to find a home a little less scary? <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/property-search/search-form/" target="_blank">Take a look </a>at the properties currently on the market!
An Essential Step
While this home will be new to you, it may not be brand-new in regards to age and condition. No matter when the home was built, or how polished and put together a home looks on the inside, you never truly know a home’s condition until you take a closer look. The old adage, never judge a book by its cover, certainly rings true here. Having a home inspection is one of the most important steps in the home buying process, and in most cases, should not be skipped.
Most home contracts will have an “inspection period” built into the contract. This gives you a certain amount of time to complete a home inspection and make decisions in moving forward in the contract based on the information received as a result of the inspection. In some cases, potential issues may be addressed with the home seller, and mutual agreement is made to move the sale of the home forward, of course, this is not the case with every contract and this is just “in general”. This is also the time, should the amount of repairs be so large and encumbering, that you may be able to walk away from the contract.
Even if you are purchasing a home in “as is” condition, or waiving the home inspection period, it is always advisable to have an inspection done anyway for your own informational purposes. An inspection will let you know what items will need to be addressed sooner rather than later.
The Choice Is Yours
Who you choose to inspect your home is your choice, though it’s not usually recommended that you hire an inspector that is recommended by the seller’s agent. Not that this infers that their inspector will be less than truthful, it is more so that you feel at ease in regards to the outcome of the inspection, that you are hiring a neutral party. You can hire your own choice of inspector or your buyer's agent can make a recommendation.<a href="https://www.askcathy.com/meet-our-team/" target="_blank"> The Ask Cathy team </a>has experience with a number of home inspection companies and recommends inspectors that have a proven track record to our clients.
Expectations
During a home inspection, your inspector goes over each part of the home. You should anticipate a number of hours for the inspection depending on the size of the home. Your buyer’s agent will meet the inspector at the home, and give them access. Most clients come to the inspection towards the end, so that the inspector can go over the summary of their findings. The report they give you will be highly detailed, full of information and definitions on particular parts of any home, and then more specifically, on the specific home the report is made for. There will also be a summary of the issues that the inspector may have found. The inspector will go over these issues with you, point them on within the home, and answer any questions you may have about the issue. You will also receive this report over email, with pictures, so that you can read it at your leisure. Your agent will also get a copy of the report so that they can address any of your concerns. The home inspector is willing to answer your questions at any time as well.
The Importance of Being Earnest
Now, it is easy to be frightened of the multi-page report you receive after a multi-hour inspection. If you’ve never purchased a home before, it is enough to send a chill or several through your spine. You may think to yourself, in sheer panic, “Look at the size of this report! So many pages! How is this house still standing? There must be so much wrong with it!” It may truly seem like that, but before you head for the hills there are some REALLY important things to know.
It is a home inspector's job to find potential problems with your home, this is what you are paying them for. If a home inspector is not thorough and misses something, then that could cause problems in and of itself. You want a home inspector who is nitpicky and alerts you to what could be happening in your home. For example, they will even tell you if a handle is loose or a window won’t close properly.
As your agent, the Ask Cathy team will go over any concerns you may have about a potential home. That’s what we are here for. Even as you are first viewing a home,<a href="https://www.askcathy.com/contact/" target="_blank"> if you have questions, let us know</a>. If you have any questions after the inspection or at any time during the process, your agent has your back. With an experienced agent, like those on the Ask Cathy team, it is highly unlikely that your home inspection will bring up anything that your agent hasn’t encountered before. If that is the case, they will make sure they research the issue and help find a remedy or more information regarding the problem.
The MOST important thing to remember is that NO home is in perfect condition. There will always be issues found in a home inspection, sometimes even with newer homes. If a home is kept up in regards to maintenance, the issues should be few or easily resolved. If a home has deferred maintenance, there may be a few things to tend to in order to give yourself peace of mind. However, many things that are encountered can be addressed or could be absolutely normal and expected depending on the age of a home.
Potential Home Inspection Concerns
While there are a number of issues that could be lurking within the 4 walls of a home, the chances of encountering ALL of these issues is less than the probability of you being abducted by aliens. These areas are the main issues that you should consider with any home.
Structural Issues - damage to load-bearing walls of a home
Electrical Issues - outdated and faulty wiring
Mold - this can be a health hazard and can spread rapidly if not addressed promptly and properly.
Foundation - large cracks, settlement, or shifting of the foundation can threaten the structural integrity of the foundation. (Note: smaller cracks and some settlement are normal in a home. Seeing cracks is not always cause for alarm.)
Water Damage - Water damage can lead to mold, rot, and other structural issues. Signs of water damage may include stains on ceilings or walls, warped floors, or musty odors.
Roof Damage - a damaged or failing room can lead to water or pest infiltration and other issues within the home.
Major Systems - Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are the hub of a home. These should be in good working order and serviced regularly.
Septic - issues with the tank or the drainage field. For homes with a septic system, a specialized inspection will be needed.
Environmental Issues - asbestos, lead-based paint, radon, or other issues should be identified and addressed
Drainage and Grading - improper drainage around a home can lead to pooling water or the infiltration of water into your basement
Plumbing Issues - leaks, water pressure, or sewer line problems should be addressed
Pests - Termites, rodents, or other pests can cause significant damage to a home's structure and may require professional extermination and repairs.
Code Violations - unpermitted additions or renovations that don’t comply with building codes can lead to complications or expensive
We Scare Because We Care
If you were potentially scared off from buying a home before, the list of potential issues may be just the thing to put you over the edge. But before you jump, remember, these are just the possible things to look out for, not necessarily the reality you will face with your new home.
No matter what the issue, the Ask Cathy team will help you through the inspection process, and repair negotiations, and even help you vet repair services should it be necessary. We are with you every step of the way.
Remember again, it is highly unlikely that the home you are looking for has all of the above-mentioned issues. The inspector will make recommendations of things to repair or maintain, but not all of them are immediately necessary. A number of things, should your house encounter them, can be repaired, replaced, or addressed a little bit at a time. Seeking the advice of your home inspector and your Realtor Ⓡ is very important. After all, they have gone through a substantial amount of inspections and will be able to advise you on the best course of direction, though it is up to you to decide what is within your capability to handle. The good news is that almost anything negative found in a home inspection can be fixed.
By doing your due diligence you can ensure you end up with a home that will look less like the haunted house you imagine it to be and more like your new home that will continue to last for many years to come!
Curious on how much your current home is worth in today's market? <a href="https://askcathy.hifello.com/lp/6436ad6ae32334001ada8e24" target="_blank">You can find that information here! </a>2023-10-06T11:00:00-07:002023-12-01T14:31:49-07:00Ask Cathy Marketing Grouptag:askcathy.com,2012-09-20:309505 Tips to Keep the Deal Moving as a Seller!
Negotiation Tips for Home Sellers
Priorities, Pricing Strategy, and More!
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Oftentimes when speaking with clients, we find that the negotiation aspect of the home selling process is the most stressful part of the experience for them. To help ease those anxieties, we decided to compile five tips for negotiations, and how to keep the deal moving as a seller!
Thinking of selling your home? The Ask Cathy Team offers a free consultation to discuss what selling your home would mean to you in the current real estate market. <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/contact/" target="_blank"> Get in touch </a>with the team today to decide if moving is the right choice for you!
Get Your Negotiation Priorities Straight Before Negotiating
Price is typically the number one deal-breaker when it comes to selling your home, but it is not the only issue to consider when you’re figuring out what you really want to get out of your sale. Before you start fielding offers from prospective buyers, take a moment to think about what matters most to you, and identify your priorities accordingly. This will allow you to act more swiftly when those offers begin to come in.
Gain Leverage With a Smart Pricing Strategy From the Beginning
Pricing your home competitively is the fastest way to ensure a quick sale with swift negotiations. Head into your negotiations with the understanding that the process takes time and a strategy for closing quickly will look different than a strategy with getting a higher price as the priority.
Want to know how much your home is worth? <a href="https://askcathy.hifello.com/lp/6436ad6ae32334001ada8e24" target="_blank">We have that information here. </a>
Do NOT Ice Out Prospective Buyers
Not only does a prompt response go a long way in generating trust and good faith, but it could be the difference between making a deal and missing out.
Give Yourself More Time Than You Think You Need
If your goal is to sell your home in the spring, make sure to get in contact with your Ask Cathy agent in the fall. We recommend giving yourself around 6 months to plan, market, and ultimately sell your home.
<a href="https://www.askcathy.com/sellers/why-list-with-ask-cathy/" target="_blank">Want to know why you should list with Ask Cathy? </a>
Ensure Your Success By Working With an Ask Cathy Agent!
The decision to work with an experienced and successful real estate agent can make a bigger impact on your offer negotiations than you may realize. When you set out to select your realtor, look at their performance when it comes to the sale-to-list-price ratio. The higher the ratio, the more money they are able to get their seller’s clients on average.
Ready to take the next step? Contact us by filling out the form below, or by giving us a call at (816) 268-4033!2023-10-04T11:00:00-07:002023-12-04T08:28:58-07:00Ask Cathy Marketing Grouptag:askcathy.com,2012-09-20:30900Listing Spotlight: 1220 NE Goshen Dr, Lee's Summit, MO 64064
Better Than New Home Available in Monticello Neighborhood!
3 Beds | 2.5 Baths | 2,899 Sq Feet
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Absolutely stunning and BETTER THAN NEW! Gorgeous is an understatement in this former model home in Monticello! So many upgrades and finishes, and PRISTINE condition! Kitchen and family room with hardwoods and vaulted, beamed ceiling with shiplap! Huge kitchen island with granite and farmhouse sink, custom cabinets, walk-in pantry! Gas cooktop with pot filler! Office nook with built-ins! Family room with floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace and custom shelves! Breakfast room w/ hardwoods, tons of natural light, and door to covered patio! Plantation shutters! Master bed with vaulted ceiling and trey ceiling with accents! Master bath with tiled floors, separate vanities with granite, soaker tub, spectacular tiled shower, huge walk-in closet with access to the laundry room! Incredible rec room with wet bar area! Nice-sized bedrooms in lower level share a Jack & Jill bath with tiled floors and oversized granite vanity! 1/2 bath on both the main and lower level! $27k in upgraded landscaping, wrought iron fence, blinds, security and more! Lovely front porch, and covered patio! Upgraded trim package throughout! Custom blinds throughout! Security system with cameras stay! Located in the premier Monticello neighborhood! Amenities include community events, a swimming pool, walking trail, and a pond with fountains! Subdivision is located off 291 hwy and Lakewood Blvd/Bowlin Road, just a mile from Blue Springs Marina for boating access to the lake; also enjoy its gorgeous parks, lake activities, hiking, and camping right down the road!
Want to learn more about this listing? <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/property-search/detail/109/2455279/1220-ne-goshen-dr-lees-summit-mo-64064/" target="_blank">View the listing on our website for more information</a>, or you can check out the full video tour below, as well as some of our favorite pictures from this SPECTACULAR home!
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<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/goshen_freehold/4701NEFREEHOLDDR-15.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/goshen_freehold/4701NEFREEHOLDDR-20.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
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<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/goshen_freehold/4701NEFREEHOLDDR-31.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
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<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/goshen_freehold/4701NEFREEHOLDDR-33.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/goshen_freehold/4701NEFREEHOLDDR-35.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
There is an address discrepancy that is being worked out with the county: The postal service has the home address as 4701 NE Freehold. Call listing agent for details!
2023-10-02T14:45:00-07:002023-10-02T15:00:21-07:00Ask Cathy Marketing Grouptag:askcathy.com,2012-09-20:30884Welcoming the Wonderful Fall Season!
Fun Activities to Welcome the Fall Season!
Ways to Enjoy Fall Before the Craziness of Winter!
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Welcome October!
We aren’t sure about you, but fall is certainly one of our favorite seasons of the year! Temperatures start to become a bit cooler, the leaves are changing color, and there is that bit of crispness in the air. Even with some recently high temperatures here and there, we all anxiously anticipate “sweater weather”.
As busy human beings, our tendency is to let our minds get ahead of themselves, skip onto Halloween, and then straight into the upcoming months of November and December and all that needs to be thought of and prepared for. It is an easy thing to do, to rush right over the present season and onto the next…after all, where does time go? It doesn’t help that all of the stores have pushed fall merchandise into a corner to make room for Christmas, (something we might add, that they have been doing since July.)
Thinking of selling your home this fall and want to know how much your home is worth in today's market? <a href="https://askcathy.hifello.com/lp/6436ad6ae32334001ada8e24" target="_blank">We have that information here. </a>
An Opportunity
Our days are marked by jumping from one event/holiday/achievement to the next without the enjoyment of just ordinary days. This fall, this could be your chance to just stop, relax, and take in that pumpkin-spiced air for a minute, and just anticipate the month ahead. Don’t skip past these next few weeks with worries about what to serve for Thanksgiving or what might be on the kids' Christmas lists.
Truly appreciate the Fall Season for what it is and what it could mean to you; an opportunity.
Just as the leaves are getting ready to shed their foliage of 2023, in anticipation of their winter hibernation process and eventual Spring rebirth, if you were to do the same sort of process, what would that look like to you?
Embracing Change
Not to be overly dramatic or esoteric, but if you took the time to slow down, take a breath, and think about it, is there something that you should let go of, something you want to change, or something you have been putting off? It doesn’t even have to be that momentous or life-changing - just something you have been putting off “until later”. It also could be giving into more moments to appreciate the day that you are in, instead of the days ahead. It could be fit into any category:
A physical item or items that are just taking up space but have no purpose
A responsibility or an activity you no longer enjoy
A goal for your health
A habit you should (but are reluctant to let go of)
Something you would like to do, but always put off?
An activity you enjoy but can't seem to find the time?
Quality time spent with a loved one
A Time to Replenish
Fall is the perfect time to reflect and make space to accomplish the things that have long been on your list. Even blocking out an uninterrupted hour to just relax seems like an incredible indulgence, but you deserve it. Self-care may seem selfish, but in reality, it is desperately needed by so many of us. As parents, partners, coworkers, business owners, and students - it is easy to get bogged down and distracted by what others want or expect from you - and in most instances, it becomes a responsibility or an obligation rather than a choice. Though we all have responsibilities and activities that must be followed through on, it is equally important to replenish what you are giving, so that you have something to give.
A dry empty cup has nothing to offer.
Autumn gives us the opportunity to shed some unwanted things in our lives, make some positive changes, or slow down and just take a moment to breathe. It is the perfect time to replenish.
Moving is one of the biggest changes in life, and it is no easy decision. It can be helpful to seek the advice of a real estate professional who can go over the pros, the cons, the financial bits, and all that is involved with moving. No pressure or commitment, but a consultation with our team can make the world of difference in deciding if moving is the right decision. <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/contact/" target="_blank">Schedule your free consultation today! </a>
Ordinary Days
Make the most of the few months ahead to appreciate the small things or some pursuits that fit perfectly into the mood of fall.
Need some ideas of some activities that could give you some respite?
Take a walk in nature
Bundle up on a crisp night and do some stargazing
Snuggle up and watch your favorite fall movie
Read the book you’ve been putting off reading
Take a one-day class on something that interests you
Try your hand at homemade bread-making
Make a fall playlist of some favorite tunes that put you in an autumn mood
Use the switching out of your summer wardrobe to your fall/winter wardrobe as an opportunity to purge some clothing that you no longer wear, or like. Donate what is still useful and clean.
Plant a garden bed of tulips, so that come spring, you will have a colorful landscape
Make a big pot of chili and some cornbread for dinner
Go apple picking and enjoy the fresh air
Visit a pumpkin farm
Take a short road trip to somewhere you haven’t been before - even if it is just a town an hour or two away, take the backroads and discover something new!
Eat dinner by candlelight - make even the most ordinary meal special by dining in ambiance!
Board game night - gather around, turn off the TV, put away the electronics, and enjoy a night in.
Eat out at a restaurant you’ve always wanted to try but haven’t. Bonus points if they have seasonal items on their menu.
Sit outside after dinner, and enjoy the autumn air.
Give a friend a call who you haven’t talked to in awhile
There is a magic to the fall season that sometimes goes unappreciated. As the trees around us show all the signs of getting ready for their next season, it is the perfect moment for us to do the same. Who said change or growth is only for the trees?
Is Your Environment Due for a Change?
Change can also come with the environment that you are living in. One thing people tend to put off is moving. Especially in the fall, people tend to procrastinate, thinking that another time, another month, or another season will be better. The truth is, no one can truly anticipate what those different time periods will have in store for us. The housing market, the interest rate, and the housing inventory all can make dramatic changes in a short period of time. We can certainly anticipate trends, but one thing we do know, is how those things are NOW. Want to see what moving in the fall could possibly look like to you whether you are a buyer or a seller? Give us a call or connect with us below!2023-10-02T11:00:00-07:002023-12-04T08:39:49-07:00Ask Cathy Marketing Grouptag:askcathy.com,2012-09-20:30849Design Trend 2023: Maximalist Design
Maximalist Design Style Tips!
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Maximalist Design is just what the name foretells. Maximum at its finest. It’s permission to turn the volume UP. The freedom to indulge and delight in layers upon layers - of everything. It’s extravagant, luxurious, and flowing in overabundance and excess. Think of the phrase “ the land of milk and honey” as the epitome in picturing an environment full of bounty and goodness. That is the essence of Maximalist interior design.
In the recent design world that has embraced a whole lot of white and neutral minimalism, sparseness and the less is more trendy. This is truly the antithesis of the maximalist design style. Say goodbye to stark farmhouse or modern midcentury minimalist and say hello to MORE. This style could possibly have Marie Kondo shaking in her shoes.
The British seem to have perfected the style of maximalism. Gallery walls, texture created with voluminous fabrics, from gorgeous brocades to sense-pleasing velvets. Dark moody and broody rooms, with walls of leathery tomes. There is so much for the eye to see; done with such class and style. This perhaps is due to the British and other European countries that are well rehearsed in embracing luxury for centuries.
Maximalism can be a sign that people really LIVE in a home. The people that inhabit the rooms within, have traveled, have experienced life, and have lived well. Their interests are many, and their wants are few. They decorate to the beat of their own drum, and as long as they like it, it brings them joy. They aren’t worried about what their neighbors may say, to them the pleasure of living in a home surrounded by the many, many things that they love, is enough.
However, with maximalist design, there is a time when having more, really means just more. There is a fine line between opulence and gluttony when it comes to this type of design, and it is a fine line that you indeed should be careful not to cross. Perhaps it is better to convey the idea of maximalism with a touch of style restraint.
Did you know that maximalism and minimalism can happily cohabitate in the same dwelling? That the balance between the two can add variety and a pleasing sense of congruity within a home’s environment? Think of the minimalist room as a breath of fresh air, and a maximalist room as a comforting hug, or a sense of surprise that delights. Both styles warrant a place in your home.
Need more room for all your stuff? <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/property-search/search-form/" target="_blank">Take a look at all the homes that are currently on the market, here! </a>
Achieving Maximalist Design
It might seem easy to achieve Maximalist design for a particular space in your home, it is just MORE stuff, right? In truth, there is almost a quiet restraint you need to have in order to pull it off successfully, and not to completely overwhelm your senses.
Palette
There is color. It doesn’t have to be loud shocking colors. If neutrals are your thing, absolutely go for it!
There are vibrant colors, though it is best to limit your color palette to a few colors that blend and flow well together. Shocking a visitor from room to room with a non-cohesive eye-jolting arsenal of different colors doesn’t make anyone feel at ease. Even though your color choices can vary, they should get along well together and flow. Too many color combinations and choices with incongruity will be overwhelming to most. When coordinating the color choices in your home, envision strolling from room to room. Does it feel cohesive, or do you feel jolted back and forth? Colors can be bold and exciting if that is your preference, but the overall color scheme of your home should marry well together.
Pattern
Mixing patterns and styles are also embraced. Repetition of the same patterns, in different sizes in different rooms can also help marry rooms together.
Texture also adds interest and a layer to your room. Baskets, rugs, drapery, and blankets, all take your room from sparse to spurge.
A maximalist room is well-layered, it is not flat and lifeless. It is also NOT cluttered to extremeness. The blend of different periods in art, furniture, fabrics, and accessories all are welcomed.
Resourceful Without Being Random
Embracing Maximalist Design is your opportunity to truly spell out your own personality and your own style. If you love a wacky piece of furniture, by all means include it. Furniture and accessories that have meaning to you, items of sentimental value, collections you have enjoyed for years, by all means, include them.
Your room should have a “collected” feeling, not like it was purchased off the showroom floor. Mix in antiques and vintage pieces, with contemporary items that speak to you. Your home should be a place where you are free to embrace personal expression.
Want to know the value of your current home? <a href="https://askcathy.hifello.com/lp/6436ad6ae32334001ada8e24" target="_blank">We have that information here! </a>
Artwork
Art of varying sizes, from all different periods, can find their home here in Maximalist Design. It doesn’t have to be bold and shocking, it can be subdued and subtle and still achieve the same effect. There are no rules - just the ones you make for yourself. If something feels off to you, change it. Move it into another room, and see how it does there. If it still doesn’t fit, think if it has an overall place in your home - if it doesn’t then edit it.
Finishing Touches
Maximalist Design is not for everyone, in fact to some - it is downright scary. The thing is, you can choose to use it in one room or ten - it is up to you. Again there are not “true” rules but the ones you give yourself. There is no harm in trying it out to see if it is for you. If it is too much, take a layer off. Too little - add. Go ahead, and embrace the drama!
If you are looking for a new home that fits your design style to a tee, the Ask Cathy Team wants to be of assistance! Connect with us below for a consultation, to ask any questions, or to set up a detailed home search detailed just for you! Looking forward to hearing from you! 2023-09-29T11:00:00-07:002023-12-04T09:57:04-07:00Ask Cathy Marketing Grouptag:askcathy.com,2012-09-20:30809Listing Spotlight: 225 SE Citadel Dr, Lee's Summit, MO 64063
Remarkable 1.5 Story With So Much to Love!
3 Bed | 3.5 Bath | 3,546 Sq Foot Home Available in Lee's Summit!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/Citadel/225SECitadelDr-1.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
NEW PRICE! Don't miss your opportunity to move to Somerset at Charleston Park! NEW ROOF! The expansive Great Room provides floor-to-ceiling windows, ceiling fan, NEW LVP flooring, and a fireplace! Formal dining off the entry with wainscoting, new flooring, and ceiling fan! The functional kitchen includes an island, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and opens to a breakfast area with hardwoods and access to backyard deck! Main level Master Suite with walk-in closet, separate walk-in glass shower and tub, and double vanities! Upstairs you will find two large bedrooms with TONS of closet space, loft area, and 2nd full bath with skylight and shower/tub. Bonus walk-in closet in the upstairs hall caters to your storage needs! Mostly finished lower level with full wet bar with tile and glass cabinets! Rec area is ready for your customizations: just needs paint, trim, and flooring! Lower level bath with tile and shower! Convenient main-level laundry room with sink and cabinets. Mud room with built-in boot bench. Garage includes built-in cabinets and shelves. The lush backyard is fully fenced with a deck for entertaining. COME SEE!
Want to learn more about this listing? <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/property-search/detail/109/2451149/225-se-citadel-dr-lees-summit-mo-64063/" target="_blank">View the listing on our website</a> for more information, or you can check out the full video tour below, as well as some of our favorite pictures of this wonderful home!
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<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/Citadel_Updated/IMG-8185.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/Citadel/225SECitadelDr-29.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/Citadel/225SECitadelDr-27.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />2023-09-27T14:00:00-07:002023-09-27T14:46:34-07:00Ask Cathy Marketing Grouptag:askcathy.com,2012-09-20:30803Tips on Moving With Children!
Helping Your Children During Your Move
Ways to Help Them Feel Included, Fun Activities, and More!
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Moving can be difficult, for anyone.
If you are moving with kids, even more so. Even for the most rational human being, moving can bring up emotions, situations, problems, and even surprises that no one is expecting.
An eventual move is inevitable for most of us, and in some cases, happens more often than we would like it. In so many ways it can be uncomfortable, but it also can be filled with anticipation, expectation, and joy. Whether you are moving around the corner, to the next city, or across state lines, moving comes with emotions of all kinds. If there are kiddos involved, special care must be taken into account as they will be going through a whole myriad of feelings that you may not be expecting.
There are a few ways, however, to ease the transition for you and your family from place to place.
Are you thinking of moving but don't know if it is the right decision for you? <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/contact/" target="_blank"> Schedule a </a>consultation with a member of the Ask Cathy team to get all of your questions answered so you can make an informed decision.
Decision Making and Communication
A big key to moving is to not keep children in the dark about the move. Let them in on the process, and if you can the decision-making. Moving is not always a choice, and may be a necessity no matter how anyone feels. Though you may not be able to include them in the conversation of “to move or not to move”, there are some decisions that you can include them in.
Househunting can be a long process, but it also can be fun too. Include children while looking at homes online, ask them their opinions on different rooms, yards, and house color - no matter what you ask their opinion on - you are including them, and making them feel like their opinion is not only valid but important to you as well. While participating in this type of exercise, and engaging in thoughts back and forth with each other, gives your children the opportunity to open up and share things with you or ask questions. They may engage with you in letting you know things that worry them, without the pressure of a point-blank conversation about how they feel about moving.
Interested in a house search that gives you all the up-to-date information on homes available in your target area? <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/property-search/search-form/" target="_blank">Set one up here!</a>
While the idea of bringing children (especially young ones) to physically house hunt, you could think about bringing them to your top choices - if you are deciding between one or two. Definitely, if you are able to, bring them to the house once you have decided on one to talk about the positive attributes of a home and why you think it is a good fit for your family.
Moving is a BIG deal, and change, big or small can be SCARY. Even for adults. Children love stability, and when you move, especially long distances, that stability is shaken. Children need to be reassured and reassured again about upcoming changes - that may be both uncomfortable and exciting.
It is important to keep lines of communication open regardless of the process. Ask open-ended questions about the move and try to avoid projecting feelings you THINK they are feeling into a conversation.
If you say to them, “I know you are worried about the move” a child who at this point isn’t feeling anxious about it, may start thinking to themselves “Should I be worried?”
Ask instead, “What are you looking forward to the most?” followed by, “Is there anything you are unsure of that you would like to talk about?”
Also, showing that you are vulnerable as well can be an important bridge to understanding your child’s emotions. They won’t necessarily feel like they have to put on a “brave face” or hide what they are feeling from you. This gives them permission to open up and share what they are feeling.
You could say, “You know, when we first started thinking about the move, I was a little nervous too. I really like our house a lot and thought we might not find what we were looking for somewhere else. Then I thought, how fun it would be to have a whole new house to make our own, and then I felt a lot better. Have you felt something like that?”
At no time, should you negate or invalidate your child or children's feelings about moving or make them feel like their feelings are wrong. While you may not agree or understand why they feel the way they do, they are what your child is going through.
It is important that you look at moving as a positive experience, instead of a negative one, no matter how you are actually feeling. Children tend to mirror their parent's feelings when dealing with tough situations. Even as an infant, how the parent reacts to a situation gives a clue as to how the child thinks they should react. When a child falls down as a toddler, if the parent asks scared, or immediately reacts if the child hurts themselves, the child then takes a cue from the parent that what just happened was scary and hurtful. If the parent masks their true worried feeling, picking them up instead, and speaking in a pleasant voice instead of a nervous one, the child is less likely to react with tears and worry.
The same can be said for a move. If children hear the adults in their lives being negative about a moving situation, they will be less likely to look for the good in the situation.
Want to know what your home is valued at in today's market? <a href="https://askcathy.hifello.com/lp/6436ad6ae32334001ada8e24" target="_blank"> Find that information here. </a>
Preparation
Giving children something to look forward to with a move can help ease them into the transition. New bedding, room decorations, the color of their room paint, or even as simple as allowing them to plan where their furniture will go a long way in helping them feel excited about what is to come. If you are planning on painting their room or personal space upon moving in, make this a priority. Giving children a safe space to go to that feels like their own in the midst of all the moving chaos is key.
When packing, help them make decisions about what is going on and what will be donated, but even if they are fearful of leaving anything behind, it is better to allow them an extra box or two, than to make them feel like they are losing out on something by moving.
A great trick to moving, in general, is to buy each child that is moving a special roll of duct tape. They make so many fun patterns and colors, before packing, have them pick a different one out. Each roll should be different from another siblings and easily identifiable. After packing a box with their belongings and securing it with regular packing tape, put a large piece of this special duct tape on each box of theirs. This will help identify which boxes belong to them immediately as they come out of the car or moving van. By also taping a piece of paper with a piece of tape on the doorframe of the corresponding bedroom of the child, it will help movers know exactly what room they belong it. (Using a piece of paper to put the tape on instead of directly on the doorway will prevent duct tape residue, that you will need to clean up later.)
If there is an extra special item for your child, pack that item separately, and either mark it very special and into the truck last (so it will be one of the first things out) or bring it with you in the car with you. Having this special item unpacked as one of the first things will make a new place feel like home. (Your blog writer had a special set of antique kitchen scoops that were one of the first things purchased as a newlywed. Through all of our family’s moves, they were one of the very first things put up in each kitchen we owned. On one particular move, they were lost in the shuffle, and not found until weeks later. As silly as it sounds, once they were discovered and put up, the new house finally felt like home.) Is there an item that speaks to your child or children that way? Make it important to you as well.
Be sure to also pack a special bag for your children with things to do (for car, hotel, or while you are unpacking), snacks they like, a bathing suit (for hotel pools), and all their basic necessities. Keeping track of one bag is much better than wondering in which box you packed their pajamas on the first night in your new home.
Make it Fun!
If you moving a long distance, and if time and money allow, make your move an adventure. Stop somewhere along the way that is fun for the whole family. Look up some silly or strange sights to see (largest ball of twine, anyone?) and take some pictures. Find out what the area you are passing through is famous for. Do they make the best pizza? Famous for a special dessert? Be sure to make time in your schedule to have some. Make your move an adventure instead of just a drive from point A to point B. Not only will your move be more enjoyable, but you will also be making some sweet memories along the way.
If you are moving across town, you can still make it fun. Find an ice cream parlor you haven’t been to close to your new home and take a break from unpacking. Order a pizza from two neighboring pizza parlors, and have a secret ballot on which one is everyone’s favorite. Seek opportunities to make your transition from house to house an event rather than a chore. Don’t be afraid to take time out from unpacking to share moments with your children. The boxes can wait.
Don't Forget
It is easy as an adult, to be inundated with the logistics of moving. Timelines and deadlines can easily overtake and overshadow the time before, during, and after your move. Stress is inevitable. It is important to not forget that your children are going through different emotions and experiences surrounding this move. As in everything, it is an adjustment. The more you speak with them about it, include them in it, and allow them to feel their feelings the better. A little bit of understanding can go a long way when it comes to something that is so fraught with emotions.
As part of your team in getting you from one place to another, The Ask Cathy Team is here to help. Let us know if the kiddos in your family are having a difficult time with your upcoming move. We will do our best to reassure you and make it less stressful for all of you, so you can look forward to your new adventure and family life in your new home!
For more information on moving see our related blogs below!
<a href="https://www.askcathy.com/blog/setting-your-timeline-to-move/" target="_blank">Setting Your Timeline to Move</a>
<a href="https://www.askcathy.com/blog/move-in-day-essentials-for-first-time-home-owners-and-what-to-maintain/" target="_blank">Move-In Day Essentials for First-Time Home Owners and What to Maintain</a>
<a href="https://www.askcathy.com/blog/guide-to-relocating-to-kansas-city/" target="_blank">Guide to Relocating to Kansas City</a>
Still have questions? We are always just a phone call away or use the contact form below!
2023-09-27T11:00:00-07:002023-12-04T13:27:55-07:00Ask Cathy Marketing Grouptag:askcathy.com,2012-09-20:30743What Does the U.S. Average Home Price Get You in the Kansas City Area?
Examining Available Homes in the $400,000 - $450,000 Price Range
$400,000 - $450,000 Homes in Lee's Summit, Overland Park, and More!
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Trying to figure out how much home you can afford is a tricky thing. We may fall into the trap of wanting more house than we might be able to afford. Blame it on HGTV, House Beautiful Magazine, or the lure of the Target home department, a good number of us are attracted to new, beautiful, things. This translates into the desire to have a move-in-ready type home, which let’s face it, is not always possible, no matter your budget.
There is also the question of affordability. One of the worst financial traps is to be “house poor”. Even being late, or missing one house payment, can set you up for a financial disaster that will take you years to recover from. Therefore, an affordable mortgage is certainly key. Most lenders would like you to keep your housing expenses at or under approximately 30% of your gross income - what does that look like to you? Want to know what you may be able to afford in the way of homeownership? Through a no-obligation buyers consultation, our experienced buyer agents can help connect you with a reputable lender, and <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/buyers/mortgage-calculator/" target="_blank">help you evaluate how much home you can afford.</a>
The average home price in the entire United States is $416,000. What does that translate to in housing in our area? Does it give you all the bells and whistles, and move-in-ready features that you are looking for? Let’s take a look at what $400,000 to $450,000 can get you in our communities around Kansas City.
Want to know what your home is currently worth in today's real estate market? <a href="https://askcathy.hifello.com/lp/6436ad6ae32334001ada8e24" target="_blank">We have that information here. </a>
Kansas City Community Comparison - Price Point: $400,000-$450,000
Lee's Summit<br /><br />Blue Springs<br /><br />Grain Valley<br /><br />Independence<br /><br />Kansas City<br /><br />Leawood<br /><br />Overland Park<br /><br />Belton<br /><br />Raymore<br /><br />If you are thinking of moving, and have questions in regards to your ability, budget, or the home buying process, the Ask Cathy team can help you. We can answer all of your questions, help you weigh out the pros and cons, and provide guidance on lenders and other resources. Simply put, we are here to help. <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/contact/" target="_blank">Schedule your no-obligation consultation with our team today</a>, and see if moving either now or in the future is right for you!
2023-09-25T11:00:00-07:002023-12-05T08:35:11-07:00Ask Cathy Marketing Grouptag:askcathy.com,2012-09-20:30609Mum Day 2023 Recap!
Recapping Mum Day 2023!
Contact Your Agent to Learn More About Our Client Appreciation Events!
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The one thing that we HOPE people know about the Ask Cathy Marketing Group is that we LOVE our clients. That is why several times a year we like to prove it! This week we were able to see so many of our favorite people at our annual Mum Day!
Since we are still patiently waiting for our new home base to be ready for us in our new location, we were a little nervous about our first event - where would we have it that was convenient? Thankfully, our good friends at Coffelt Title stepped in to help us out and offered us the use of their parking lot for the event. Did you know that they help sponsor our mum event for all of you? They do! They are amazing, and a good many of you know them too, since they are our top Title and Closing company for all of your home closings.
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It is truly a sign that fall is on the way when our mum event commences! This year, we gave away over 350 mums in a variety of shades and colors. We were so excited to see so many of you on Wednesday! It is always nice to catch up, say hello, and give you a reminder of our thankfulness to each of you. Being pet lovers, we are particularly fond of the 4-legged car passengers we get to see too! Mum day is always such a fun event, from the unloading of the hundreds of mums, to seeing each one of your faces. We also enjoy spending quality time as a team together.
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Did you miss out on our Mum Day this year? If you did not receive a postcard or an email about how to reserve your mum we must not have your correct email address, mailing address, or phone number for you. We certainly don't want you to miss out on any of our fun, future Client Appreciation events that we have planned for YOU and the rest of our amazing Ask Cathy family in the future, so please connect with your agent, or give us a shout on the phone, or an email at info@askcathy.com so that we can make sure that you are on our list. We miss seeing you!
Do you know of any family or friends who would benefit from our expertise and experience when it comes to buying or selling a home? We would love to meet them and include them in our future events! Connect with us below!
Are you curious as to your home's current value? <a href="https://askcathy.hifello.com/lp/6436ad6ae32334001ada8e24" target="_blank">We have that information here</a>. 2023-09-22T11:00:00-07:002023-12-04T13:49:33-07:00Ask Cathy Marketing Grouptag:askcathy.com,2012-09-20:305802023 Fall Parade of Homes in Kansas City!
The Fall Parade of Homes is Here!
Ask Cathy Parade Homes, Info on the Parade, and More!
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Want a fantastic way to see all the latest in home design and home construction? Want to view a variety of floorplans and builders without making individual appointments? Looking for an opportunity to view some incredible interior design and home furnishings? Friends and neighbors, here is your chance!
353 brand-new and in-progress homes will be open and on tour for you to peruse during this upcoming Fall Parade of Homes. Through the time period, each home will be open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day. This is the perfect opportunity to view all the latest design ideas and home trends in these fantastic new construction homes. Best of all, admission to each home is free.
If you have never been to a Parade of Homes before and love all things home design, this is the outing for you. Even if you are remotely thinking about building, and want to educate yourself on floorplans and popular design, this is the chance you have been waiting for!
Want to know how much home you can afford? <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/buyers/mortgage-calculator/" target="_blank">Try out our free mortgage calculator! </a>
Ask Cathy Listings on Parade
This year, Ask Cathy has homes in Foxberry Estates on Parade as well as is available to give you information about our up-and-coming luxury neighborhood, <a href="https://www.woodlandoakskc.com/" target="_blank">Woodland Oaks</a>, which is set to launch soon in Lee’s Summit. If you have any questions on either community, we are here to answer your questions! Check out the pictures below of some of our homes on the parade, and that are available to tour, as well as a link to the listing on our website for more information!
<a href="https://www.askcathy.com/property-search/detail/109/2436744/27606-e-128th-ct-lees-summit-mo-64086/" target="_blank">The StoneBridge from H&J Custom Homes</a>
<a href="https://www.askcathy.com/property-search/detail/109/2436744/27606-e-128th-ct-lees-summit-mo-64086/" target="_blank"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/Foxberry_Parade_Images/DSC00271.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></a>
<a href="https://www.askcathy.com/property-search/detail/109/2431144/12802-s-foxborough-ct-lees-summit-mo-64086/" target="_blank">The Penelope by Dave Richards Homebuilding Inc.</a>
<a href="https://www.askcathy.com/property-search/detail/109/2431144/12802-s-foxborough-ct-lees-summit-mo-64086/" target="_blank"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/Foxberry_Parade_Images/IMG_1337_3.png" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></a>
<a href="https://www.askcathy.com/property-search/detail/109/2414642/12809-s-foxborough-ct-lees-summit-mo-64086/" target="_blank">The Cole by Brian Chaney Construction</a>
<a href="https://www.askcathy.com/property-search/detail/109/2414642/12809-s-foxborough-ct-lees-summit-mo-64086/" target="_blank"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/Foxberry_Parade_Images/Downloads002-14_1.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></a>
<a href="https://www.askcathy.com/property-search/detail/109/2437303/12806-s-foxborough-ct-lees-summit-mo-64086/" target="_blank">The Telluride Grove by H&J Custom Homes</a>
<a href="https://www.askcathy.com/property-search/detail/109/2437303/12806-s-foxborough-ct-lees-summit-mo-64086/" target="_blank"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/Foxberry_Parade_Images/IMG_1108_2.png" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></a>
<a href="https://www.askcathy.com/property-search/detail/109/2414644/12807-s-foxborough-ct-lees-summit-mo-64086/" target="_blank">The Brooksdale by Brian Chaney Construction</a>
<a href="https://www.askcathy.com/property-search/detail/109/2414644/12807-s-foxborough-ct-lees-summit-mo-64086/" target="_blank"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/Foxberry_Parade_Images/DSC05524_2.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></a>
The Benefits of Buying New Construction
For those of you who are looking to settle into a <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/new-construction/" target="_blank">new construction home</a>, this is the perfect chance to narrow down your prospects and find a newly built house to call your home. There are a number of reasons why purchasing a new build is a great idea. Read on!
Adaptability
Depending on when you decide to purchase a new build, you may be able to choose the design elements and features that you want in the home. If you choose a neighborhood that is currently still being built, you also may have the opportunity to choose the lot, and floorplan, and make small changes to an offered floorplan.
Price
New construction homes are sold at a set price. You are less likely to encounter a bidding war or an appraisal gap when purchasing a new build. New construction homes are sold on a first come first serve basis. If that particular home is sold, there may be the same of a similar home available for sale by the same builder for you to consider.
Possible Buyer Incentives
On occasion, certain builders may offer incentives for purchasing a new home. Some popular incentives may include appliance packages, basement finishes at reduced rates, interest rate buy downs, or money towards closing costs. It is important to note that not all builders offer incentives, so it is important to not anticipate any when deciding if a new home build is affordable for you.
Lower Maintenance
New construction homes also may require less maintenance since everything is brand new. Major systems such as heating, cooling, hot water heater, roofing, doors, and windows will most likely be energy-efficient models in pristine condition, therefore not needing immediate attention for your home maintenance dollars. The exterior will most likely be made of high-quality materials, which push repainting or dry rot repair well down the road for years to come. Each and every appliance will be new, never used, and perhaps under the manufacturer's warranty. In short, your major big-ticket items that can go awry in a resale home, should be free from worry and repair if you have selected a reputable builder.
Move-in Ready
When moving into a resale home, there are always at least 20 things to do before you unpack any box. Painting, carpet cleaning, and perhaps, even some remodeling need to take place before you can make this house, your home. The previous homeowner's design choices may not be ones you would make for yourself, so you begin the process of making it your own.
With a new construction home, everything is a blank slate. The paint is clean and fresh, and the colors are either very neutral or chosen by yourself. Carpets and floors are newly installed and undamaged. If there were some adaptations to the made, most likely you’ve already included them during the build process. Moving into a new home is like being the first one to use a new box of freshly opened Crayola crayons. It is an exciting and greatly anticipated event!
So Much More!
There are so many other perks when purchasing a brand-new home. Did you know that <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/meet-our-team/" target="_blank">the Ask Cathy team</a> has specially trained new construction specialists who can answer any questions, fears, doubts, and all the logistics surrounding the whole new construction process? They can even help find the perfect builder for your budget and your new home's wants and needs. A no-obligation free consultation is available to schedule with one of these knowledgeable experts! Not every agent has knowledge about new construction, so experience on your side is key.
Protect Yourself with Representation
Even if you are considering buying a new construction home, it is important to have representation. Your Ask Cathy agent can help you make sure that you have someone representing YOU. If you also need prequalification for a mortgage, we can put you in touch with a private lender so you can narrow down your budget for your new home as well.
Remember, agents sitting in these home tours are working for the builder, not the buyer. It is ok to speak with them, just make sure you preface the conversation with, “ I already have an agent from the Ask Cathy Team”. If you've already narrowed down your choices,<a href="https://www.askcathy.com/meet-our-team/" target="_blank"> let your agent know</a> and they will gladly give you a private tour of the home or homes you are considering and answer any questions you may have.
For more information on why agent representation is important, please see our blog: "<a href="https://www.askcathy.com/blog/why-you-need-representation-as-a-buyer-or-seller/" target="_blank">The Benefits of Representation During the Real Estate Process</a>". Connect with us about representation, if you do not already have a trusted Realtor ®.
Important Tour Tips to Remember
There are no public bathrooms on the tour, so be sure to plan accordingly.
In most homes, you need to either remove your shoes, or cover them with the provided paper booties, to protect floors and carpets. It is always best to wear clean socks and easy-to-remove shoes!
If you are planning on seeing multiple homes, having water and snacks in your car will help sustain you and energize you for all you are going to see!
Parade Information Recap
Parade of Homes Fall 2023
September 23 through October 8, 2023
Homes will be open daily from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and admission is free.
To view homes on the tour, <a href="https://kchba.org/kc-parade-of-homes/fall/" target="_blank">view them here</a> or download the KC Parade of Homes free app. From the app, you can star your favorites, and map out your tour!
You can also pick up a printed copy of the tour book, while supplies last, at homes where they are available.
Happy Parading!
If you are wondering if purchasing a new home is right for you, schedule a no-obligation consultation with our team. We can provide you with the answers you need to make an informed decision. <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/contact/" target="_blank"> Connect with us here</a> or below! 2023-09-20T11:00:00-07:002023-12-04T13:54:43-07:00Ask Cathy Marketing Grouptag:askcathy.com,2012-09-20:30548Everything to Know About Little Libraries!
Playing the Long Game with Little Free Libraries
How to Create Your Own Little Library, Literacy Stats in the United States, and More!
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Did you know that September is <a href="https://www.mymcpl.org/library-information/using-mcpl/get-a-library-card" target="_blank">“Get Your Library Card”</a> Month?
Some of you may remember the days of heading off to the library after school in preparation for a big school project or a report. There, you searched through the vast resources of the looming bookshelves only armed with the clue of a nearly illegible number from the Dewey decimal system, hot out of the card catalog. Perhaps you went there for unimpeded access to the Encyclopedia Britannica.
Others can remember the library coming to you, in the form of a quaint bookmobile that traveled throughout neighborhoods providing access to a small collection of books for people who may not have access to the main branch.
Love to read and want more convenient access to your local library? <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/property-search/results/?searchtype=3" target="_blank"> See all the homes available for sale in the area! </a>
Unlimited Access
These days, there is unlimited access to information, from all across the world, and it is accessible simply by phone or computer. Simply put, there is Google.
Since books and magazines are available digitally or online, and the presence of the printed word is becoming more and more scarce. Bookstores are becoming fewer and farther between, and the selection of books on the shelves is smaller as well. Most printed booksellers are mostly distributing online versus the brick-and-mortar storefront. Reading and accessing books online is commonplace and many prefer to read the digital version for accessibility purposes. Even your Amazon Prime subscription has access to a special free book feature.
However, to hopefully a number of you, there is nothing like a physical book. Having the story, chapter, and verse in your hand at your unlimited disposal. Creating a tactile connection between the reader and the page, and the comfort that only having a book in your hands can bring. Thumbing through the volume, hearing the whisper of each page turn, smoothing each one down to continue soaking in all the words. For readers, this is one of the great joys in life! It is also something that no glow from a monitor or phone can bring.
In this trend toward a paperless society, will there be an end to handheld, well-loved, well-worn books?
Do We Still Need Libraries? Isn't That "Old School"?
Yes, there are still libraries, and in fact, in our area, libraries are still being built or renovated. Older libraries are being transformed to include coffee shops and classroom areas, to give libraries even more purpose than just access to books and periodicals. They have designated spaces to hold classes, meetings, and much more. Often, you will see several people getting out of a typical office setting and working from the library. They also have adapted to having a large online presence, holding classes both in person and virtually. To keep up to date on all the current library construction plans please <a href="https://www.mymcpl.org/library-information/about-mcpl/the-librarys-future" target="_blank">view them here</a>.
Libraries, and the resources they bring to a community, will hopefully always be a priority. The <a href="https://www.prosperityforamerica.org/literacy-statistics/" target="_blank">shocking literacy statistics in the United States</a> are as follows. Over 43 million adults in the United States have low literacy skills, with 54% of adults reading below a 6th-grade level, and 21% of those adults being illiterate. There are over 43 million adults in the United States who cannot read or write above a 3rd-grade reading level. Children of adults with low literacy skills are 72% more likely to have a low reading level. Due to such an alarming literacy rate, the United States government loses an estimated $2.2 trillion dollars annually because of low adult literacy rates.
There are many benefits of your local library and having your very own library card. In addition to access to the books in the physical library, there is a branch-to-branch loan service, where you can request a book be transferred or held if your current branch is out of stock. There is also a vast e-library of ebooks, streaming music, and audiobooks. You can also visit and check out books at any branch in your library's network. For library card holders, there is also free tutoring and homework assistance available as well. For even more information on how great our local library is, be sure to <a href="https://www.mymcpl.org/" target="_blank">visit their site here</a>.
A Closer and Smaller Resource - The Little Free Library
Another wonderful way to have access to books is through a Little Free Library. If you haven’t seen one, chances are, there is one close by to you, or you have driven by one and didn’t even know it. Little Free Libraries are just that. They are little, and they are free. They can come in all designs and shapes, and house a variety of books available to anyone, for free.
They are the small house-like structures that house a collection of books inside that invite the passerby to “Take a book, leave a book”. You can use it as a lending library, where you exchange books by replacing the ones you have read for newer ones, or you can simply take a book to enjoy. Many stewards of reading also replenish the book supply, as does the caretaker of the particular library.
<a href="https://littlefreelibrary.org/about/history/" target="_blank">Todd H. Bol started the very first free little library in 2009</a>, and then set the wheels in motion for the creation of the non-profit organization The “Little Free Library” based in St. Paul Minnesota. <a href="https://littlefreelibrary.org/about/#:~:text=Our%20Mission%20%26%20Vision" target="_blank">Their vision statement reads</a>, “Our vision is a Little Free Library in every community and a book for every reader. We believe all people are empowered when the opportunity to discover a personally relevant book to read is not limited by time, space, or privilege.”
They do this by removing barriers to access to books, through fostering new Little Free Libraries, educating and guiding Little Library stewards, working with communities and partners like schools, libraries, and businesses to bring more Little Free Libraries into the communities, and much more. Their objective is to have people “take a book or leave a book”. In communities worldwide, there are more than 100,000 Little Free Libraries so far on all 7 continents. To find one you can use their app or webmap to <a href="https://littlefreelibrary.org/map/" target="_blank">locate those near you</a>.
Many people even make it a hunting game of sorts, by visiting a number of Little Free Libraries in their neighboring communities, and others while they travel. It is a wonderful way to pass on books you have already read to those who also appreciate the written word.
Find out how you can have your own “Little Free Library” in your community <a href="https://littlefreelibrary.org/start/" target="_blank">here</a>.
Want to know what the current market value of your home is? <a href="https://askcathy.hifello.com/lp/6436ad6ae32334001ada8e24" target="_blank">We have that information here. </a>
Reaching Neighborhoods, One Little Library at a Time
The Little Libraries do many things for the neighborhoods and areas that they are in:
Gives access to free books.
Builds community
Promotes sharing
Gives an opportunity to meet neighbors
Creates a friendlier neighborhood environment
Spreads the joy of reading
"A reader lives a thousand lives before he dies ... The man who never reads lives only one." - George R.R. Martin
The love of books is something to be nurtured and having Little Free Libraries in our neighborhoods, in addition to the community-owned public libraries will help decrease the amount of illiteracy in our communities, strengthen the desire to learn, and give those who don’t have access to reading, an opportunity.
Looking to relocate to a new neighborhood? The Ask Cathy team is here to help. We can answer any questions for you and put you on the path to moving with ease. <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/contact/" target="_blank">Connect with us today by giving us a call</a> or filling out the form below.
2023-09-18T11:00:00-07:002023-12-04T14:27:04-07:00Ask Cathy Marketing Grouptag:askcathy.com,2012-09-20:30484Listing Spotlight: 114 NW Hackberry St, Lee's Summit, MO 64064
Lakeside Haven in Lakewood!
4 Bed | 4.5 Bath | 5,000 Sq Ft Home Available in the Highly Coveted Lakewood Neighborhood!
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Welcome to the exclusive offering of 114 NW Hackberry, a lakeside haven nestled in Lakewood. This meticulously designed single-family residence boasts a remarkable blend of luxury and tranquility. With terraced landscaping on a lot over 10,000 sq ft, enjoy shaded patios and expansive decks that frame breathtaking lake views. Inside, the 5000 sq ft interior features hardwood and tile flooring, showcasing three distinct fireplaces. The upper secondary master suite boasts a gas fireplace and a balcony, while the main floor living room offers a wood-burning fireplace overlooking the lake. The lower-level family room features a gas fireplace with captivating lake views as well. Other interior highlights include a private steam shower and a remodeled kitchen with quartzite counters and stainless-steel appliances. Two offices, dual-zoned A/C, and abundant storage enhance convenience. The home's allure extends outdoors with a deep-water dock on a coveted cove, making boating a breeze. With proximity to community amenities, this residence embodies the epitome of lakeside living.
Want to learn more about this listing? <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/property-search/detail/109/2448794/114-nw-hackberry-st-lees-summit-mo-64064/" target="_blank">View the listing on our website</a> for more information, or you can check out the full video tour below, as well as some of our favorite pictures of this truly spectacular home!
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<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/Hackberry/114NWHACKBERRYST-19.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/Hackberry/114NWHACKBERRYST-2.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/Hackberry/114NWHACKBERRYST-5.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/Hackberry/114NWHACKBERRYST-23.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/Hackberry/114NWHACKBERRYST-33.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/Hackberry/114NWHACKBERRYST-37.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/Hackberry/114NWHACKBERRYST-44.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/Hackberry/114NWHACKBERRYST-29.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />2023-09-15T14:15:00-07:002023-09-15T14:22:56-07:00Ask Cathy Marketing Grouptag:askcathy.com,2012-09-20:30474Clutterbusters: Technology
Tips on Decluttering Your Email Inbox!
Filters, Separate Email Accounts, and More!
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You have no doubt, read numerous blogs or books, or watched programs on decluttering your home. Even right here, on AskCathy.com you may have perused our Clutterbusters blog series, which takes you through every room in your home and gives you tips, tricks, and tidbits on decluttering your home to your heart's content. (<a href="https://www.askcathy.com/blog/category/home-improvement/" target="_blank">You can find them here for your reference.</a>)
If you are familiar with that series, the one place we haven’t touched on yet can feel a little personal. That place is your internet and technology accounts. Though it is not commonly spoken of in the typical forms of clutter, this is one place that can be virtually inundated with items you don’t need. So let’s venture on, shall we?
It may seem strange to talk about because whatever you have cluttering your phone, inbox, and photo folder is taking up space in thin air, or rather the” virtual” air called “the cloud”. This may seem like nothing, but having clutter within it is definitely costing you time and perhaps money too.
So what to do and how to do it? How can you declutter your tech?
Your Inbox
You most likely have numerous accounts. Not only for you, your work, your hobbies, if you have children, a few for them that you monitor too. With so many of life’s activities that make it necessary, It seems no one is safe from having an email account, even if it is as old as the hills and ends with hotmail.com
So with email, unless you are super diligent, very disciplined, and compulsively fussy, it is very easy to let your email out of control. All it takes is subscribing to one impulsive shopping email and blammo! It seems like everyone and their brother is sending you an ad, an invitation, or an offer weekly, if not daily.
Organizing and Sorting Methods: Two Approaches, Same Goal
There are a few schools of thought when it comes to organizing and sorting through your personal email, and then an action to take to EVERY email that comes your way. Here are two suggestions for organizing.
Approach #1: Separate Email Inboxes
The first method is to identify your important tasks, such as bill paying, kids' schools, as well as the inevitable mail from rewards programs, or hobby websites you visit. Then maintain a separate email account for each activity. This is particularly helpful if someone else needs to have access to particular information. This way, you can give access only to the accounts that the other person is responsible for. For the sake of brevity and simplicity, it is suggested not to have more than 5 or so separate accounts or as many as you can monitor, but that is up to you.
The KEY to this approach is to use each email address ONLY for its intended purpose. This way, nothing important falls through the cracks, and nothing else is received through that inbox. Thankfully gmail makes it easy to toggle between accounts and to set up more than one. No matter how you are tempted, only use a particular email address for it’s intended purpose, otherwise, you will have an unfiltered email account that will easily become out of control.
Some suggested separate email accounts are:
One for bills - this is the email that you ONLY give to your bank, your medical accounts, your utilities, car payment, insurance - what have you. If you need to pay it, this is the email that you use.
One for personal - this is where all family/friend correspondence should go.
One for school -if you have more than one school-aged child, you will want to have a separate email for each of them, that you filter all school emails, and activities through.
One for junk - this is the email you give to all the rewards programs, mailing lists, etc. and everything that doesn’t fall into your other email categories.
Other optional accounts could be if you have a side business, are on certain committees, or anything else that is important and needs to be separated.
Approach #2: Filter, Filter, Filter
If you find it easier to maintain only one personal email, instead of multiple accounts, the key here is to be diligent about either manually filtering your emails or making the most use of the filter function that is built into your email account.
If you use Gmail, thankfully, there are already some built-in filters that automatically sort a bulk of your emails for you into one of three categories: Inbox, Social, and Promotions.
Having it already filtered this way, makes it easy to bulk delete unwanted social notifications, and also promotional emails from stores that you don’t want or need.
Even with these great filters in place, do not be surprised if some junk still gets through to your regular inbox.
For most of us, however, this is not granular enough, and we need to filter it even more. This is where automated filters come in.
Automated Filters
By creating filters you are able to create “rules” within your account that as a particular email is received, it is automatically filtered into a particular folder, labeled with a certain tag, or immediately sent to the trash can.
By setting up automatic filters you can:
Automatically delete all newsletters and marketing emails in Gmail
Automatically archive all newsletters and marketing emails in Gmail
Automatically move all newsletters and marketing emails to a specific folder in Gmail
Automatically delete, archive, or move emails from specific senders in Gmail
Automatically empty your Spam folder
And so much more. An excellent resource that goes into step-by-step detail about making Gmail filters is found <a href="https://zapier.com/blog/gmail-filters/" target="_blank">here</a>.
An Action for Every Email - One Touch System
Much like when decluttering a home, using the one-touch method is a preferable way to sort through any item that is taking up space. Touching something one time, making a decision, and deciding its fate saves time and is a method that gives everything a place to go. The same can be said and the same method applied to your email inbox. No matter if you have one inbox or one hundred, the following action should be taken to every email that comes in.
Use the one-touch system
With each email you receive, immediately do one of the following:
Delete - many emails can be dealt with like this
Read and Delete - do this with any email that you will no longer need or need to refer back to
Read, add a subject label (kids' school, bills, to do, etc.) whatever labels will help you identify or refer to a read email
Read and forward - to someone else, or to another account
Don't read, just unsubscribe and then delete - there are many emails that you no longer need to receive, and are complete junk. Don't even read them, just unsubscribe to no longer receive them and delete them.
Hope for the Already Unruly Inbox
If your email is already vastly out of control and seems overwhelming, don’t worry. There is a way to get your email under control.
Moving forward, from today, use the one-touch system for every email you send.
For the backlog of endless emails, you can send all emails within each calendar year into its own folder. For instance, send all 2022 emails received into a folder marked 2022, all 2021 emails into a folder marked 2021, and so on.
Sort by date hovering over the 1-50 box located on the top right of your inbox. If you hover over that, you can filter by the oldest emails received versus the newest.
From there, page by page (by using the bulk action check box on the upper left above your "primary" tab on your inbox) select emails for a particular year, right-click and select "move to" and select the folder with the appropriate year on it. The first time you do this, you will have to use the "create new" to create the folder you want to place the mail in time, if you don't find yourself going into that folder, you can delete it altogether.
Social Media
Social Media accounts can also get out of hand rapidly as well. Some of us also maintain separate accounts for business and personal. If that is the case, it is important to take time each week, or month to give it the once over.
Some Key Actions:
Regularly unfollow accounts you no longer want to see anything from
Regularly block accounts that send you offensive content
Unsubscribe from notifications on accounts that are no longer useful for you
If you find yourself rapidly gaining followers for no apparent reason, a good idea is to make sure your account hasn’t been compromised. If you find accounts following you that look fake, are from a foreign country, or don’t follow trusted people you know - block immediately.
Social Professional Profiles
It is always a good idea to give your profile biographies a once over, and keep your location and resume updated on professional profiles, like Linked In, etc. Set a calendar reminder to do so every 6 months or so, or more if you are actively job hunting.
Physical Items:
If you are like many households, you may find yourself with a drawer, box, or even a tub of cords for random electrical devices. Random chargers, and power cables for current and possibly outdated items most likely reside in this box. You hold onto it thinking, I may have a reason for that cord or I could use it someday.
In order to tame this type of collection, the best way to is to label. For every cord that you have, label it. A label maker that creates little neatly typed self-adhesive labels is a great way to wrangle all these random cords, by creating a label, folding it over the cord, and attaching it back onto itself. (Think of a smaller version of the destination bag tag on your luggage at the airport.) but if you don’t have a printable label maker, any handwritten adhesive label, masking, or duct tape will do. Even a sharpie written on a wide flat ribbon and tied around the cord would work too. Whatever method you choose, be sure that your label will not detach with use, and that it is legible.
Create a label for each cord in your home that is attached to a device. Sidenote: This is also helpful for when you move, so you know exactly what cord plugs in where it needs to be.
For every new electronic device that comes into your home, label the cord.
Recycle or donate unwanted usable electronic items.
Throw out broken electronics that are beyond repair, or no longer useful.
When you purchase a newer or upgraded model of an appliance or electronic you already have, give away, donate, sell, or trash the item no longer needed.
By following even a few of these principles and strategies, you will soon find yourself with less to worry about every time you open your email!2023-09-15T11:00:00-07:002023-09-15T10:37:07-07:00Ask Cathy Marketing Grouptag:askcathy.com,2012-09-20:30415Checklist for Getting Your Home Ready to Sell!
Ways to Better Prepare Your Home for Showings
Tips on Decluttering, Lighting, and More!
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Getting your home ready to put on the market may seem intimidating, but it doesn't have to be. There are a few minor repairs and improvements that you can easily make to help your house shine in today's real estate market.
Want to know how much your home is worth in today's market? <a href="https://askcathy.hifello.com/lp/6436ad6ae32334001ada8e24" target="_blank">We have that information here! </a>
Declutter Living Areas
When it comes to getting your house ready to show potential buyers, less is more. If the house is overflowing with stuff, buyers might worry there is not enough storage. Start with counters, windowsills, and tables. Then tackle the closets, drawers, and cupboards. Remember, nothing is off-limits to the curious buyer. If needed, don’t hesitate to rent a storage unit.
Update the Lighting
Are your lighting fixtures outdated? Updating your fixtures is an easy and relatively inexpensive update. A new fixture can really make a dramatic difference. Also, don't forget to change your bulbs. Keep in mind the type of bulb you are using as well. Soft lighting is always more pleasing to the eye, while fluorescent lighting can be harsh.
Open House Tip: Have your lights turned on prior to potential buyers arriving. This will give your home a bright and cozy feel!
The Ask Cathy Listing Team are experts when it comes to putting your home on the market. They have years of experience in what it takes to get your home sold FAST and for more money. <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/contact/" target="_blank">Schedule your no-obligation consultation with the team today! </a>
Paint the Walls
Buyers find it easier to imagine themselves in the space if the paint color is neutral. While you may love lots of color, your potential buyer may not. A fresh coat of paint is an easy and cheap “facelift” for your home. If your color and paint look pretty good, you can always do spot cleaning if needed to remove any marks or scuffs. Just be careful!
Clean the Cabinets
This means inside and out. If your cabinets need a good cleaning on the outside, be sure to give them the attention they deserve. Also, don't be surprised if potential buyers open your cabinets and closets. They want to see what storage space is available. Clean out and organize your cabinets and closets to make them look spacious.
Fix Windows and Doors
Ignoring basic repair jobs can cast a bad impression. Give these areas some attention and check for any repairs that may need to be addressed in advance.
Flooring
If your carpet looks bad, consider having it professionally cleaned or replaced entirely. No buyer is excited about dirty, old carpets. Don't assume this is an expensive fix. There are many choices in today's market that can make replacing your flooring an expense that you can recoup.
Clean, Clean, CLEAN
Last but not least, make sure your home is as clean as if your in-laws were coming to visit! That’s right, it is time to go above and beyond your regular wiping of the countertops. Have your carpets professionally cleaned, dust the ceiling fans, clean windows and screens, disinfect bathrooms, and polish kitchen appliances.
Thinking of Selling Your Home? Contact a Member of our Team Today!
If you're considering selling your home, and want or need help in getting your home ready to sell, <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/meet-our-team/" target="_blank">contact a member of our team</a> today by filling out the contact form below, or by calling us at (816) 268-4033! Our listing agents have decades of real estate experience, and can help you through the best ways to prepare your home for the market, so that you can sell for the most money possible, and as fast as possible!2023-09-13T11:00:00-07:002023-12-05T08:44:23-07:00Ask Cathy Marketing Grouptag:askcathy.com,2012-09-20:30380What Ever Happened to Tiny Houses?
Benefits of Tiny Homes!
Available Tiny Homes in the Kansas City Area
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Remember back when tiny homes seemed to be the next big thing? HGTV and all the home networks were chock full of television shows about tiny homes and all the supposed benefits to them. They seemed to be just a perfect solution for a number of situations.
People who couldn't afford a large mortgage
People who wanted to downsize
People who travel for a living
People who want to make a smaller carbon footprint
People who wanted to live closer to family but not live with them
People who wanted to have an accessory home on their property
In recent years, homes and the space within them have become more important than ever. As the choice of working out of the office and in our homes was mandated across many industries - homeowners found the need for bigger, more efficient homes, where all residents could live, work, and carry on. Home offices and the space for them went from being a luxury to a necessity. Some homeowners stood still, hunkering down in their homes and staying put, yet many more used lower interest rates - meant to enliven a slowing economy - as their advantage to upgrade and move.
If you have been watching the real estate market in the last few years, it has been through a rollercoaster ride of changes. To no inventory, to historically low rates, to shortage of building materials, to astronomical bidding wars. First-time home buyers, while wanting to jump into the deep end of homeownership, found it difficult to even dip a toe into the shallow end, since experienced homeowners with equity and cash reserves on their side, tended to win out on any bidding war. Now, many first-time homeowners are reluctant to enter the market due to ever-increasing mortgage rates. Still, many dream of owning their own home.
So now that all the hubbub has died down a bit, and other trends, other issues have been pushed at the forefront, it may be the time to revisit the merits and drawbacks of tiny home living or maybe better yet, small living as a viable option for homeownership.
Thinking about downsizing and want to know what your current home is worth on today's market? <a href="https://askcathy.hifello.com/lp/6436ad6ae32334001ada8e24" target="_blank"> Find that information here. </a>
What Constitutes a Tiny Home?
For most people, a tiny home hovers around 100-300 square feet, and is meant to attach a trailer to the back of a truck with a slightly oversized camper on the back. Once you find a campground to park it in, away you go! For others, it is living in a box no bigger than a backyard shed with a compost toilet, on a tiny home plot, or a kind relative with some acreage to spare. For the majority of us, those options are less than appealing. Sure, it might be fun for a week or a weekend away, but for long-term living, it may seem an impossible lifestyle to maintain.
This type of tiny home has many challenges in both logistical and fundamental aspects, and they certainly do not work for everyone. For those with mobility issues, the idea of climbing up a ladder or tiny staircase into a sleeping loft seems impossible, if not a safety hazard. For others, proximity to services and employment, instead of more rural living makes rustic tiny living impractical. For even more, the feeling of isolation, while living in a tiny home seems unbearable - after the charm and uniqueness of living in a tiny home wears off a bit, what then?
So how can we live tiny, but still live comfortably?
When Less Is Actually MORE
There are many benefits of living small. You will spend less on utilities, yard work, and even furnishings. There is no need to heat or cool rooms you aren’t living regularly in or furnish them with items and furnishings you rarely use.
You may find when downsizing, that you don’t actually need all the space you think you do, especially if you plan and make the most out of the space you do have. For instance, need a guest room? Try a serviceable pullout couch in your living area, or second bedroom, that doubles as an office. When space is at a premium, why use your resources on a space that is only used sparingly?
Everything is less, and in turn, all that you take in, use or spend money on reflects this. All these differences can add up to either some significant savings or some very frugal living.
Home improvements don’t have to break the bank. Happily, depending on the project, home improvements cost less when compared to larger homes. A roof replacement on a home that is 800 square feet certainly costs less than on a home of 3200 square feet. A kitchen counter replacement or upgrade also costs less in kind.
This can provide the opportunity to give your home “jewel box” potential. It is rare that you see a small jeweler's box opened to see something unattractive or ugly, right? The anticipation is that you will see something brilliant and beautiful inside. Your small home is your own jewel box, to make it just how you want it. When you have a home that is smaller than average, some of those finishes and furnishings that may have been out of reach in a larger home are now in the realm of reality. Everything you bring in is done so with a great deal of thought, as you don’t have room for things that are just there to take up space. As every room and every surface is used, through daily use, you want the items, furnishings, fixtures, and materials you are surrounded by to be those you truly love and that make you happy. Even though your square footage has shrunk, you don’t have to give up having a beautiful home.
Wondering what kind of tiny home you can afford? <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/buyers/mortgage-calculator/" target="_blank">Try our handy and free mortgage calculator</a> to estimate mortgage payments today!
Potential and Problem Solving
In the Kansas City area and its suburbs, as of this writing, there are currently 70 homes under 800 square feet or less available to purchase. Not all are move-in ready, or even inhabitable, but you may be surprised at the number of homes with jewel box potential.
Small or even tiny home living is certainly not for everyone, but it can be a solution to a housing problem, a first step into homeowner dreams, or even a wonderful alternative to older folks who aren’t ready, or unwilling to give up independence for an elder care living situation.
Whatever your home need is, our team is ready to help and advise, and more importantly, to show you all your living options, either big, small, or tiny!
If you are thinking of buying your first home, no matter what the size, looking to sell the one you are currently in, or both! Connect with us for a no obligation consultation with one of our expert team members. They will help guide you on the path to an informed decision, and help you every step of the way! <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/contact/" target="_blank">Connect with them here. </a>2023-09-11T11:00:00-07:002023-12-05T08:51:13-07:00Ask Cathy Marketing Grouptag:askcathy.com,2012-09-20:30338The Counterbalance to Choosing a Countertop!
Tips on Choosing the Perfect Countertop Material
Granite, Quartz, Marble, and More!
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Whether you are renovating your current kitchen, moving into a home that needs some updating, or building one from scratch in a new home, one important decision you are likely to make is what type of kitchen or bath countertop to install.
Looking for a new construction home where all the work has been done for you? Our team can help. <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/new-construction/" target="_blank">Take a peek at some of the current new construction neighborhoods in our area</a>, or connect with us for <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/buyers/personalized-home-search/" target="_blank">your own detailed search for that perfect new home</a>!
This decision may be a difficult one as there are so many different options to choose from. So we ask the age-old question - how do you decide on what would be best for you and what are your choices?
Cost - Let’s face it. We all wish we had an endless budget for home improvements, but sadly most of us are stuck with champagne tastes and beer budgets when it comes to remodeling. Though maybe you have a home improvement savings account, or just got a wonderful bonus at work that is helping fund this new purchase. Either way, the cost could definitely play a factor in determining what type of countertop you choose.
Aesthetics - How a counter looks is a big thing to a lot of kitchen owners. There is a vision of your kitchen, no not the current state - with this morning's breakfast dishes or kids' science project strewn about. The one right before the EXPECTED company comes over, and everything is tidy and clean, and it looks like a picture off of Pinterest. You may have a look that you want to achieve for your kitchen, and the countertop most likely is a HUGE part of this vision. Look in home magazines and home websites for inspiration on colors and choices. Go visit the different options in person, and take some samples home to see how a particular selection looks at different times of day, and with the cabinets you currently have or the ones that will be installed. Look at brand-new model homes for inspiration.
(The Kansas City Parade of Homes is a GREAT way to see new kitchen counter options in the wild! <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/blog/2023-spring-parade-of-homes/" target="_blank">Read this blog</a> to find out more about this fun and free excursion! Also, stay tuned for our brand new blog about the Fall 2023 Parade of Homes to go to soon!)
Durability and Maintenance
A good way to determine whether a particular countertop will work for you is to determine what your kitchen habits are in your current kitchen.
Can the surface be scratched by a slip of a knife when you are chopping vegetables, or scorched by a hot pan if something is accidentally set on top of it? Does every mess get wiped up immediately after it happens - so that the chance of staining is at a minimum? Or do the kitchen elves leave a mess of crumbs and spills in their wake? Are you disciplined in using a cutting board each and every time you need to cut something? Would you prefer a counter that can withstand heat and a good beating? Are you a pastry chef in the making, and prefer a nice cold slab of marble to roll your rough puff on?
Depending on which countertop you choose the material it is made from can be more durable than others, and some require more care than others. Be sure to thoroughly research whether your selection is porous or not, needs sealing, or needs any other special care. More importantly, decide how much time you would like to spend on its maintenance, or if the aesthetics of a particular type of counter is worth some extra care and love.
Resale Value - Perhaps the last thing on your mind when renovating a kitchen and selecting your brand new counter, is to consider whether it will be a good choice for another person who may buy your home in the future. Even if you are planning on staying in your home at this point, it is always a good idea to keep your eye on a potential future move. With that said, you should make the choice that is right for you and one that you will love for a long, long time. If you are thinking of resale - granite and quartz are always fantastic choices.
Curious as to what your current home value is? <a href="https://askcathy.hifello.com/lp/6436ad6ae32334001ada8e24" target="_blank">We can help with the information provided here. </a>
The Material Choices are MANY!
There are quite a number of options to choose from when it comes to countertops, and depending on your budget and what appeals to you aesthetically, could help you narrow down what material would work best for you.
Granite - Granite counters are very popular, but with a number of beautiful things, they need a little bit of extra care. They need sealing regularly against staining, but it is also durable and resistant to scratches and staining.
Quartz - Quartz countertops are engineered stone surfaces made from a combination of natural quartz crystals and resins. They are durable, non-porous, and come in a wide range of colors and patterns. They are also easy to maintain.
Engineered Stone - Besides quartz, other types of engineered stone countertops are made from materials like sintered stone and porcelain. These offer durability and design flexibility.
Marble - Marble countertops are known for their elegance and classic look. They are, however, softer and more porous than granite and can be susceptible to staining and etching from acidic substances.
Concrete - Concrete countertops have been a popular choice for people who like a modern handcrafted look. Concrete counters are durable and completely customizable in size, shape, and color. You can also integrate features in them like drainboards, or cutting boards. You can even bedazzle them by embedding them with tile, decorative glass, or stone. Some cons are because they are so customizable, you will need an installer that specializes in concrete counters to install them for you unless you are a skilled DIY-er. They take more time to install as well, due to the number of steps with building the forms, curing and sealing the concrete, etc., so it generally takes longer overall to install them, plus, they could be costly due to their handcrafted nature. They are also prone to staining, so they need to be sealed periodically.
Solid Surface - Solid surface countertops, like Corian, are synthetic materials that can mimic the look of natural stone. They are non-porous, easy to clean, and can be seamlessly integrated with sinks. They are, however, prone to scratching and are not heat resistant.
Laminate - Laminate is a great way to get the look of stone, without having to pay for it. Laminate countertops are generally one of the least expensive options and yet, they come in a huge variety of colors and looks. They are the perfect choice to get a high-end look with a low cost. With being so cost-effective, they are great for homes or a rental where you may need to replace countertops more often. They are also very easy to clean. That being said, they are easy to damage due to staining or scratching, as well as heat. These countertops will not increase your resale value if this is something that is important to you.
Butcher Block - Butcher block countertops are made from wood, typically maple or oak. They add warmth to the kitchen and are great for food preparation. However, they require regular sealing and can be vulnerable to water damage. You also need to make sure that you are cleaning properly to avoid food contamination and germs.
Tile - Tile countertops offer a wide range of design possibilities and are relatively affordable. These are also possible to install without a professional installer, if you so choose. However, the grout lines between tiles can be difficult to clean, and can give your kitchen a dated appearance.
Stainless Steel - Stainless steel countertops are known for their sleek, modern appearance and durability. They are resistant to heat and stains but can scratch easily.
Soapstone - Soapstone: Soapstone countertops are natural stone surfaces that are heat-resistant and can develop a patina over time. They are relatively soft and can scratch but are less porous than marble.
Porcelain Slabs - Porcelain countertops are extremely durable and resistant to stains, scratches, and heat. They can mimic the look of natural stone and come in a variety of patterns.
The Big Decision
Choosing your countertop is a big decision. Due to the outlay of expense that some of the choices will create, it is a decision that will most likely be something that you will be living with for a long time. So take your time. There are so many choices available, that you are bound to find a few that speak to you. So go with your heart, and plunge forward and look forward to your beautiful new kitchen!
Want to move into a brand new kitchen with just the look you would LOVE? Let us help you find your perfect kitchen in a new home! Our Buyers team can set up a customized home search just for you, or<a href="https://www.askcathy.com/buyers/personalized-home-search/" target="_blank"> you can set a preliminary one up here</a>! Connect with our team today to find you the home, with the countertop you've always wanted! <br />2023-09-08T11:00:00-07:002023-12-05T09:23:47-07:00Ask Cathy Marketing Grouptag:askcathy.com,2012-09-20:30216The Latest on U.S. Inflation Heading Into Fall
State of Inflation Heading Into Fall 2023
Latest Indicators on Inflation, and How it Affects the Housing Market
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Whether you believe that summer ends on Labor Day, or on the officially marked end of summer, on the 23rd of September, there is no doubt that fall is near. Temperatures are beginning to drop, college football has begun, and the NFL season is just around the corner. With that in mind, we thought it would be a good idea to provide an update on the Federal Reserve’s battle against inflation and look ahead at what the Fed will potentially do to further combat inflation; and how it could affect the economy.
Curious as to how much your current home is worth in today's real estate market? <a href="https://askcathy.hifello.com/lp/6436ad6ae32334001ada8e24" target="_blank">Find out here! </a>
Latest Indicators of Inflation
Before we dive into the Fed’s stance on the state of inflation, it’s important to go over the latest inflation indicators to provide some context. The <a href="https://www.bea.gov/data/personal-consumption-expenditures-price-index" target="_blank">latest Personal Consumption Expenditure (PCE) report</a>, released on August 31st, marked a 0.2 percent increase, and a 3.3 percent increase from the number reported in July 2023. The PCE price index is the preferred indicator for the Fed, but they will also closely watch the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which is the more commonly known indicator of inflation data. The PCE price index captures a more complete view of inflation data, as it compiles more data than the CPI.
<a href="https://jobs.utah.gov/blog/post/2023/05/12/measuring-inflation-cpi-and-pce#:~:text=The%20PCE%20captures%20payments%20made%20out%2Dof%2Dpocket%20by%20households%20plus%20payments%20made%20on%20behalf%20of%20households%2C%20such%20as%20medical%20care%20services%20paid%20for%20by%20employer%2Dprovided%20health%20insurance%20or%20by%20Medicare%20and%20Medicaid" target="_blank">According to the Utah Department of Workforce Services</a>, “The PCE captures payments made out-of-pocket by households plus payments made on behalf of households, such as medical care services paid for by employer-provided health insurance or by Medicare and Medicaid”.
Additionally, PCE values are also adjusted monthly, which allows the PCE measurement to be more accurate. CPI measurements, however, are not subject to monthly adjustments. While the value in July of this year is a slight increase from the month before, we are still moving closer to the Fed's goal of 2%. Other important inflation indicators are also reflecting a positive decline in inflation, <a href="https://apnews.com/article/inflation-prices-federal-reserve-rates-economy-spending-e77c90a8ba37be48a87fa4d3adf0e071#:~:text=The%20latest%20data,higher%20labor%20costs" target="_blank">with the Associated Press reporting that</a> the number of advertised job openings fell in July, which,
“...eases pressure on companies to raise pay to find and keep workers - a move that tends to perpetuate inflation as employers raise prices to offset their higher labor costs”.
How the Fed Views the Latest Inflation Indicators
The Fed has previously raised its benchmark interest rate 11 times, with the latest hike coming in July of this year during their most recent meeting, taking the key interest rate to around 5.4%, which is the highest level in 22 years. The question now on everyone’s mind is whether the Fed will continue to raise interest rates in the remaining months of the year or decide to wait and analyze more incoming data before further increasing rates. It’s a slippery slope for the Fed to navigate, as raising interest rates too high could cause a recession, but declaring a premature victory on inflation and halting rate hikes or even lowering rates could see inflation resuming its rampage on the U.S. economy.
<a href="https://apnews.com/article/federal-reserve-inflation-interest-rates-recession-0cfab68cabed9a6db8ac87d95a592d17" target="_blank">In an interview with the AP</a>, Raphael Bostic, the president of the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta, noted that,
“We’re going to have to keep our rate higher for longer than historically happens, because we need to make sure that inflation stays at 2% …. I don’t have us even contemplating a rate cut before the latter part of 2024. We’re going to be at a restrictive level for quite a while, and that just assumes that this last bit of inflation trajectory is going to be steady but relatively slow.”
Bostic is a member of the Fed’s interest rate policy committee, which votes on whether or not they will raise, pause, or decrease interest rates. Another member of the interest rate policy committee, Susan Collins, president of the Boston Federal Reserve, <a href="https://finance.yahoo.com/news/boston-feds-collins-more-rate-hikes-are-possible-as-fed-proceeds-with-patience-130040629.html#:~:text=%22While%20we%20may%20be%20near%2C%20or%20even%20at%2C%20the%20peak%20for%20policy%20rates%2C%20further%20tightening%20could%20be%20warranted%2C%20depending%20on%20the%20incoming%20data%2C%E2%80%9D%20she%20said" target="_blank">said during an interview with Yahoo Finance that</a>,
“While we may be near, or even at, the peak for policy rates, further tightening could be warranted, depending on the incoming data”.
Wondering how much your monthly mortgage would be if you moved? <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/buyers/mortgage-calculator/" target="_blank">Use our free and easy mortgage calculator to estimate your mortgage. </a>
Expectations for Future Fed Actions
Currently, it is believed that the Fed will decide not to raise or lower its interest rate further during their upcoming meeting on the 20th of September. The reasoning for this is based partly on the positive inflationary data mentioned earlier, as well as the stances of key members of the Federal Reserve, including the chair of the Federal Reserve, Jerome Powell, <a href="https://www.federalreserve.gov/newsevents/speech/powell20230825a.htm#:~:text=two%20months%20of%20good%20data%20are%20only%20the%20beginning%20of%20what%20it%20will%20take%20to%20build%20confidence%20that%20inflation%20is%20moving%20down%20sustainably%20toward%20our%20goal.%20We%20can%27t%20yet%20know%20the%20extent%20to%20which%20these%20lower%20readings%20will%20continue%20or%20where%20underlying%20inflation%20will%20settle%20over%20coming%20quarters" target="_blank">who mentioned in a recent speech that</a>,
“Two months of good data are only the beginning of what it will take to build confidence that inflation is moving down substantially toward our goal. We can’t know the extent to which these lower readings will continue.”
How Does Inflation Affect the Housing Market
While the Fed raising its interest rate does not directly affect mortgage rates, it does directly affect the banks that provide mortgages, which in turn drives mortgage rates up. Because mortgage rates are so stubbornly high, housing costs are high as well, which is a large contributor to inflation indicators like the CPI and PCE mentioned above. Because of this, now, more than ever, it’s important to work with an experienced and professional Realtor Ⓡ who knows the local market inside and out.
Contact a Member of the Ask Cathy Marketing Group Today!
If you are considering buying or selling a home in the near future, <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/contact/" target="_blank">contact a member of the Ask Cathy team today </a>by calling us at (816) 268-4033, or by filling out the contact form below! Our team has decades of combined experience, and can help you throughout the home buying or selling process in today’s market!2023-09-06T11:00:00-07:002023-12-05T09:36:13-07:00Ask Cathy Marketing Grouptag:askcathy.com,2012-09-20:30050Old World Estate Design Style
Old World Style
Tips on Implementing this Design Style Throughout Your Home!
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There is something about old-world style that draws you in. A sharp contrast to today’s popular simplicity design of simple, clean lines, neutral colors, and a minimalistic modern approach.
Old-world style is like discovering a hidden treasure or being let in on a well-kept secret. It exudes texture, and substance, with layers and layers of ambiance. It’s a comfortable, broken-in feeling, infused with the elegance of a time past.
Picture a comfortable leather chair, sitting beside a barley twist leg table from the last century. On top is a stack of books, with a crystal vase of the latest floral givings of the weekend farmers market. Sunshine streams in past your luxurious damask drapes into your room, bathing your entire room in the sunshine and tiny dust motes. Beautiful artwork is hung on the walls. Words like exquisite and timeless are at the forefront of your mind, as you look around the room. That is the feeling of Old World style.
Old World Style is not for everyone, but when it comes together and is achieved, it is exceptionally beautiful. It may not be a style many will embrace, but certainly many will appreciate it.
This type of design can transport you to countries like Spain, Italy, and France. It is influenced by the art and architecture of Europe, particularly the Renaissance, Gothic era, and Baroque period.
Thinking of moving but unsure of the market value of your home? <a href="https://askcathy.hifello.com/lp/6436ad6ae32334001ada8e24" target="_blank"> Find out here! </a>
Infusing Old World Style in Your Home
To achieve the old-world style approach to your home, it can’t be purchased at a home store or off a showroom floor, though elements can be purchased new through careful hunting. Instead, your look needs to be “collected”.
One way to achieve inspiration for this type of design is to think about the time periods that you are drawn to. Is there a particular country that intrigues you? Are you drawn to any movies set from this time period? Do the period films leave you weak in the knees? When you watch a period film, pay close attention to the types of items in the background. What adorns the walls, the floors? What types of furniture are in the room? Fine art from a particular period also can serve as inspiration. Colors used in art from certain time periods are usually colors you can use in your decorating.
Featured Characteristics of Old World Style
Some characteristics of this style are:
Texture - Texture is achieved through plaster walls, stone, rough-hewn beams, and other wood elements. Other natural materials and fabrics provide additional texture. Sanded and glazed finishes of furniture can mimic or account for years of use. Wallpaper, like tile and mosaics of tile, can add texture as well.
Patina - Patina can be found in worn and aged items. Though it usually refers to aged metal like brass, and copper - the word can also describe other items as well. A brand-new item does not have a patina. Items that are well-loved and aged reflect their patina through the imperfection of their finish. Distressed items are common. Aged or crazed porcelain, stoneware, and terracotta can also be found in old-world style.
Color - In the old-world style, the all-white color palette does not exist. Instead, rich, yet muted color in a palette of faded burgundy, forest, violet, ochre, and cream. A blend of earth tones can give a room balance and give it a more modern approach.
Architectural Elements - Embracing the charm and features of an older home can give off an old-world feel. Arched doorways and windows are prime candidates. If you have a newer home, adding additional window trim or baseboard can mimic a time gone by. Having “found” items like architectural moldings in your room, atop a mantel of a bookcase, is completely acceptable and embraced.
Furniture - Wood furniture can reflect many time periods, even the occasional modern piece can look at home when mixed in with the old and the new. Armoire to hold a truly modern necessity like a television, will help keep you and your visitors transported into another era. Fabric furniture should be plush and inviting.
Fabrics - Nubby linens, velvet, silks, florals, damasks, leather, and brocade fabrics all have a place in old-world style. Plush and beautiful fabrics can not only frame windows, but the use of a gorgeous patterned rug can help ground your furniture in the room. Fabrics can add a beautiful layer to your room.
Artwork - Artwork can be mixed through many time periods as if you collected your art throughout the years. Oil paintings, watercolors, pencil drawings, or portraits would all be at home here. Curate your own art gallery of sorts through pieces that make you happy. There are many sources for reproductions online or a neighboring antique store could oblige you in giving you a selection from which to purchase from.
Lighting - Finding a beautiful chandelier, even a small one can create a focal point of an old-world room. Sconces and table lamps add subtle hints of light and create ambiance.
Greenery - Greenery can breathe life and lightness into what could be a stuffy and heavily adorned space. A vase of beautiful flowers or a potted fern are perfect complements to this style. Even a small ornamental tree that you would find in an Orangerie can be a wonderful addition to any space.
Want to find the Tuscan villa of your dreams or another "old world" style home? The Ask Cathy Team can help. Connect with us to set up a targeted property search focused on the home features that you are looking for by <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/contact/" target="_blank">connecting with us</a>!
Some Final Thoughts
Old World style is not about being too stuffy or formal, but instead brings a warmth to that formality. Your layered and curated room can exude a feeling of quiet luxury without feeling pretentious. It should mix functional items and not feel like a museum, or a place where you can’t lounge and be comfortable. It should be charming and functional. It should welcome, and make you and all who enter happy and curious to what you will discover upon closer inspection.
Looking for that perfect home that makes you feel warm and welcomed the moment you enter but not sure about how much your home is worth? <a href="https://askcathy.hifello.com/lp/6436ad6ae32334001ada8e24" target="_blank">Find out that information here. </a>2023-09-01T11:00:00-07:002023-12-05T09:49:49-07:00Ask Cathy Marketing Grouptag:askcathy.com,2012-09-20:30046Setting Your Timeline to Move
How Early Should You Begin Preparing For a Move?
What to Do 4 Months Before a Move, All the Way Until the Week Before!
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Did you know that you should start looking for homes four months (or longer) before the day you want to move? It's true! And yes, we just gave you the green light to start looking at houses SOONER!
Let's break this down. “It takes 30 to 45 days to close a loan and it normally takes 30 to 60 days to find the right home, so that is just about 4 months,” suggests Cathy Counti, President of the Ask Cathy Marketing Group, LLC. With her 27 years of real estate experience, this is what she suggests when trying to set your timeline to move:
Want to set up your own personalized home search? <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/buyers/personalized-home-search/" target="_blank"> Let us help you find your dream home here.</a>
Four Months Before:
Choose your ideal month to move. (ie. if you want to move in June, you will want to start the process in February.)
Look at your credit score NOW so you can understand what you can afford. Clean up any surprises. This may change your move-in month depending on any surprises you may find.
Hire a buyer's agent to work as your advocate. They will be able to hold your hand through the process. Meet our Buyers Agents <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/meet-our-team/" target="_blank">here.</a>
Meet with a lender and decide the price range you are comfortable with. Your Realtor ® will have a few recommendations of reputable lenders for you.
Get on a budget so you can determine your down payment if needed.
If you have a house to sell, start preparing NOW. Declutter, make repairs, and schedule maintenance. Decide what to keep, donate, or discard. If you are moving into a smaller space, be very intentional about what items you keep. The Ask Cathy Marketing Group can take a look for free and give you advice. <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/contact/" target="_blank">Connect with us here.</a>
Let the fun begin! Start looking at homes but remember, it takes 30 to 60 days and sometimes longer if you are looking for a unique property or piece of land. Don't forget to research and visit the areas you are looking to move into.
Are you on the fence about moving because you don't know what your current home is worth? Wonder no more and find out your current value <a href="https://askcathy.hifello.com/lp/6436ad6ae32334001ada8e24" target="_blank">here</a>!
Eight Weeks Before:
Get supplies. Buy packing materials such as boxes, tape, markers, and bubble wrap.
Plan a garage sale. As you go through your possessions, you'll find things you don't want to move. It's a perfect time to lighten your load. In the process, you'll make a few bucks at the garage sale to spend on moving expenses.
Research Moving Companies. Visit our Recommended Vendors page for top moving companies in the KC Metro area. Take your time here, you are not in rush mode yet.
Six Weeks Before
Make an offer. When you make an offer you set the closing date. This is often determined by the lender who will tell you how long they need to process your loan (30 to 45 days normally)
Negotiations, inspections, repairs, and closing will begin. This is where your real estate agent's skills really make the difference.
Four Weeks Before
Start packing non-essentials. Begin boxing up the things you won't need right away. Make sure to label the boxes.
Notify utilities. Start the process of closing out utility service at your current place and getting utilities set up at your new residence.
Three Weeks Before
Change your address. Complete a change of address form on the USPS website. Notify banks and credit cards of your new address.
Transfer insurance. If your current home is covered, check with your agent to transfer the policy to your new home.
Two Weeks Before
Pack with a vengeance! Now's the time to start boxing up almost everything left in your home. Again, make sure to label everything to ensure a smooth transition at your new place.
Coordinate your valuables. If you have jewelry, heirlooms, or other valuable items, sequester them from the main move. You don't want valuable items mixed up with your other packed items. Keep them in a safe place so you can transport them yourself.
Make a clean move. If your new place needs a thorough cleaning, make arrangements to have it scrubbed before you arrive.
Properly dispose of any items that can't be moved such as cleaning materials, propane, or paint.
One Week Before
Confirm and confirm again. Check in with your mover to confirm the time and date of the move.
Pack an essential kit. Prepare a suitcase with items you will need right away at your new place. Take it with you. Don't load it on the truck.
One Day Before
Keep important documents handy. Make sure to have any documents related to the move at the ready.
Defrost and clear. Clean out your empty fridge and freezer. Check your cupboards and pantry for any open food items.
Ready to Start Your Home Search? We are Here to Help!
If you are thinking of buying a home in the near future, or just want to learn more about the process, make sure to <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/contact/" target="_blank">contact one of our experienced and professional agents</a> today! Our agents have decades of combined experience buying and selling homes for our clients, and know how to win in today's market. Contact us today by filling out the form below, or by calling us anytime at (816) 268-4033!2023-08-30T11:00:00-07:002023-12-07T14:57:22-07:00Ask Cathy Marketing Grouptag:askcathy.com,2012-09-20:29993Best Tailgating Recipes!
Easy to Make Recipes Perfect for Football!
With college football starting up this past weekend, and Chiefs football just around the corner, we thought it would be the perfect time to share some great tailgating recipes perfect for a college tailgate, or out at Arrowhead stadium! No matter where you decide to get ready for the big game, we've got you covered with the scrumptious and easy-to-make recipes below!
Want to live closer to all the action of your favorite sports teams? <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/buyers/personalized-home-search/" target="_blank"> Set up your own personalized home search so you never miss a thing! </a>
Featured Recipes
Mini Buffalo Chicken Pies
Hot Sloppy Joe Dip
Baked Mini Potatoes
Hot Ham and Cheese Pinwheels
Cheesy Pickle Chips
Pepperoni Pizza Pull-Apart Bread
Pig Shots
Pulled Pork Pastry Puffs
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/2023_Tailgating_Recipes/Buffalo_Chicken_Pies.png" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/2023_Tailgating_Recipes/Hot_Sloppy_Joe_Dip.png" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/2023_Tailgating_Recipes/Baked_Mini_Potatos.png" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
Want to know how much your home is worth in today's real estate market? <a href="https://askcathy.hifello.com/lp/6436ad6ae32334001ada8e24" target="_blank">We have that information for you here! </a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/2023_Tailgating_Recipes/Hot_Ham_and_Cheese_Pinwheels.png" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/2023_Tailgating_Recipes/Cheesy_Pickle_Chips.png" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/2023_Tailgating_Recipes/Pepperoni_Pizza_Pull_Apart_Bread.png" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/2023_Tailgating_Recipes/Pig_Shots.png" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/2023_Tailgating_Recipes/Pulled_Pork_Pastry_Puffs.png" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
Want to upgrade your home to one with an amazing kitchen that can help you prep all these fun and tasty recipes? <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/contact/" target="_blank"> Connect with us here</a> or below to get started on getting the kitchen you've dreamed of and deserve! 2023-08-28T11:00:00-07:002023-12-05T09:58:32-07:00Ask Cathy Marketing Grouptag:askcathy.com,2012-09-20:299712023 Chiefs Regular Season Preview
Predicting the Chiefs 2023 Regular Season!
Will the Chiefs Repeat as Superbowl Champions?
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/3807/image/Alex_Blog_Images/kansas-city-chiefs-kansas-city-superbowl-afc-championship-afc-champions-football.jpg" width="700" height="700" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
With college football officially kicking off tomorrow, we thought we would take a look ahead at the Chiefs' upcoming regular season, and see if we could try our hand at predicting each game! Last year, we predicted that the Chiefs would end up with a 13-4 record, and the Chiefs ended up actually going 14-3, so we were fairly close! With any luck, this year we can get just as close, if not more!
Want to live closer to the action of your favorite sports teams? <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/buyers/personalized-home-search/" target="_blank"> Set up a detailed personalized property search today! </a>
Week 1: vs. Detroit Lions (Thursday, Sep. 7th, 7:20 PM)
The Chiefs face off against the Detroit Lions at home to kick off the NFL season during Sunday Night Football. The Lions are expected to be a force to contend with in the NFC, which is a stark change from the expectations typically placed on them for previous seasons. With the veteran QB and former first-round pick Jared Goff leading the offense, complemented by a surprisingly fierce defense, this should be a great early season test for the Chiefs. With all that being said, the Lions are the newcomers on the block, and the Chiefs should be able to take care of business at home to start the season off with a W.
Predicted Chiefs Standing: 1-0
Week 2: @ Jacksonville (Sunday, Sep. 17th, 12:00 PM)
Similar to the Lions, the Jaguars are typically a team that you can mark as an easy win when looking at the schedule (sorry Jags fans!). Recently, however, Trevor Lawrence has had the Jaguars competing in the AFC again, with the Jags being the odds-on favorite to win their division. During last year’s playoffs, with Mahomes injured, the Jags were able to score 17 points on the Chiefs' defense, in a 10-point Jags loss. With a fully healthy Mahomes, we’re predicting that the Chiefs get a scrappy win on the road to keep the good times rolling.
Predicted Chiefs Standing: 2-0
Week 3: vs. Chicago Bears (Sunday, Sep. 24th, 3:25 PM)
The Chiefs return to Arrowhead Stadium in week three to match up against the Chicago Bears in the 3:00 window. The Bears have made a plethora of moves in the offseason to revamp their team and build around their young QB, Justin Fields, who is in his third season as an NFL quarterback. Fields is one of the most mobile quarterbacks in the entire league, so the Chiefs defense will undoubtedly be making adjustments to accommodate for this element of Field’s game. Make sure to look out for the Chiefs' defense to be utilizing a QB spy on plays to lessen the chances of Fields making plays with his legs, and forcing the young QB to win the game by making plays by slinging the ball. If the Chiefs can do that, then we expect the Chiefs to wrap this one up easily at home.
Chiefs Predicted Score: 3-0
Week 4: @ New York Jets (Sunday, Oct. 1st, 7:20 PM)
While the Lions game could be considered a test for the defending Superbowl champions, the week four matchup will surely be a true test for the entire Chiefs team. The New York Jets made the biggest offseason move, acquiring veteran QB and future Hall of Famer, Aaron Rodgers, from the Green Bay Packers. Rodgers has several weapons on offense, including star wide receiver Garrett Wilson, and running backs Breece Hall and Dalvin Cook. Complementing this offense, the Jets also have a ferocious defense, led by second-year star cornerback Sauce Gardner, who won Defensive Rookie of the Year last season. The entire Chiefs team will need to play their best during this road test, and unfortunately, we are predicting that this could be a loss for our Kansas City Chiefs.
Chiefs Predicted Record: 3-1
Week 5: @ Minnesota Vikings (Sunday, Oct. 8th, 3:25 PM)
Following their visit to the Garden State, the Chiefs head over to play the Minnesota Vikings in Minnesota. The Vikings are a good team, led by veteran QB Kirk Cousins, and the #1 receiver in the league, Justin Jefferson. The Vikings, however, in this writer’s estimation are still not equipped to deal with a team of the same caliber as the Chiefs, and we’re marking this one as a good win on the road, before heading back home for Week 6.
Chiefs Predicted Record: 4-1
Week 6: vs. Denver Broncos (Thursday, Oct. 12th, 7:15 PM)
In Week 6, the Chiefs play a division rival for the first time, competing against the Denver Broncos at home. Last year, the Broncos were expected to be a force to contend with in the division, but fell well short of those expectations, in large part due to their first-year head coach, Nathaniel Hackett. Hackett was replaced during the season by interim head coach Jerry Rosburg. Now, the Broncos are coached by Superbowl-winning former Saints head coach Sean Payton. Payton is expected to get this Broncos team performing again, and get veteran QB Russell Wilson slinging the ball across the field. The Chiefs should be energized by this fierce rivalry, and defend their home turf in what will hopefully be a dominant win!
Chiefs Predicted Record: 5-1
Week 7: vs. Los Angeles Chargers (Sunday, Oct. 22nd, 3:25 PM)
Following the Broncos game, the Chiefs match up against another divisional opponent, the Los Angeles Chargers at home. The Chargers are going to be relying on their own star QB, Justin Herbert, to use his arm to heave the ball down the field for long gains on the Chiefs' defense. If the Chiefs’ defense can keep the deep ball under control, expect the Chiefs to take care of yet another divisional opponent at home.
Chiefs Predicted Record: 6-1
Week 8: @ Denver Broncos (Sunday, Oct. 29th, 3:25 PM)
In Week 8, the Chiefs go on the road for their second game against the Denver Broncos. While Mile High Stadium can be a particularly challenging place to play, the Chiefs have won their previous three matchups in Denver, and should be expected to do so as well this season.
Chiefs Predicted Record: 7-1
Week 9: vs. Miami Dolphins (Sunday, Nov. 5th, 8:30 AM)
This year, the Chiefs head to Frankfurt, Germany to play the Miami Dolphins at 8:30 AM Central Time. While we would love to have this game be played at Arrowhead, the Chiefs and Chiefs fans alike should be looking forward to this game, particularly to prove former Chiefs wide receiver Tyreek Hill wrong! In comments to media, the former standout Chiefs receiver promised to, “... be the Chiefs’ worst enemy” when he played them in 2023. This is a game that the Chiefs will surely have marked on their calendar, not only because of Hill’s comments, but also because the Dolphins are a formidable team in the AFC. Expect the Chiefs to prepare on both sides of the ball for the challenge, however, and get a win over in Europe!
Chiefs Predicted Record: 8-1
Week 10: BYE WEEK
Week 11: vs. Philadelphia Eagles (Monday, Nov. 20th, 7:15 PM)
In a rematch of last year’s Superbowl, the Philadelphia Eagles visit Arrowhead in a Monday Night Football game against the Chiefs. With both teams coming off of a bye week, Chiefs fans can expect an even matchup against the reigning NFC champions. That being said, when the lights were brightest, in a neutral location, the Chiefs were able to get it done, and we expect them to do the same at home!
Chiefs Predicted Record: 9-1
Week 12: @ Las Vegas Raiders (Sunday, Nov. 26th, 3:25 PM)
After a hopeful victory against the Eagles, the Chiefs hit the road to Sin City, to face off against their bitter rivals, the Raiders. Last year’s game at Arrowhead was one of the best games of the season, as the Chiefs came back in dramatic fashion during Monday Night Football to beat the Raiders 30-29. In their next matchup in Las Vegas, the Chiefs beat the Raiders 31-13, and we’re expecting a similar score this year as well!
Chiefs Predicted Record: 10-1
Week 13: @ Green Bay Packers (Sunday, Dec. 3rd, 7:20 PM)
After a victory in Las Vegas, the Chiefs head to a much colder climate, to play against the Green Bay Packers at historic Lambeau Field. As mentioned during our Jets preview, the Packers are without Aaron Rodgers, and instead are looking to Jordan Love to lead the Cheeseheads. By this point in the season, NFL defenses should have plenty of film on the relatively inexperienced QB, and the Chiefs defense should hopefully be able to keep the road win streak going and leave Green Bay with a W.
Chiefs Predicted Record: 11-1
Week 14: vs. Buffalo Bills (Sunday, Dec. 10th, 3:25 PM)
After what should hopefully be a pair of wins on the road, the Chiefs return home to face one of their more daunting challenges all season against the Buffalo Bills. In our season predictions last year, we had mocked this up as a Chiefs defeat, as it unfortunately turned out to be. This year, however, we are more optimistic about the Chiefs’ chances of winning versus the Bills at home, and are hoping this is more akin to the thrilling AFC Divisional Round game that saw the Chiefs walk away with the win in OT.
Chiefs Predicted Record: 12-1
Week 15: @ New England Patriots (Monday, Dec. 18th, 7:15 PM)
It’s been a number of years now since the Patriots have been without Tom Brady, and they have never come close to reaching the level they were at with him at the helm of the offense. The days of the Chiefs struggling at Foxborough should be long gone, and we predict that the Chiefs will get an easy win in New England.
Chiefs Predicted Record: 13-1
Week 16: vs. Las Vegas Raiders (Monday, Dec. 25th, 12:00 PM)
For their last matchup against the Raiders, the NFL sought fit to have the Chiefs play them at home on Christmas Day. As mentioned before, the Chiefs were able to take care of business last year at home against the Raiders in thrilling fashion, and we are expecting Santa to leave a divisional win under the Christmas tree this year to go 2-0 against the Raiders in 2023.
Chiefs Predicted Record: 14-1
Want to know what your home is worth in today's real estate market? <a href="https://askcathy.hifello.com/lp/6436ad6ae32334001ada8e24" target="_blank">Find that information out here! </a>
Week 17: vs. Cincinnati Bengals (Sunday, Dec. 31st, 3:25 PM)
Along with the Jets, Eagles, and Bills game before it, this game will be one of the most challenging games the Chiefs have this season. The Bengals are a newfound rivalry for the Chiefs in recent years, with the teams trading playoff wins and losses and hotly contested regular season games for the past handful of years. Unfortunately, we are predicting that the Bengals scratch out a win against the Chiefs at home this season.
Chiefs Predicted Record: 14-2
Week 18: @ Los Angeles Chargers (Sunday, Jan. 7th, Time TBD)
No matter whether the Chiefs beat the Bengals or not, you can expect the team to either be riding high on a great win against a talented AFC team, or motivated to close out the regular season strong by beating a divisional opponent. We predicted that the Chiefs would beat the Chargers at home earlier in the season, and we are predicting a similar victory in their final game of the regular season as well, to close out with a 15-2 record.
Think you can beat our predictions? Let us know how you think the Chiefs will do in the comments section below!
Thinking of buying or selling a home, or both? <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/contact/" target="_blank">Connect with the Ask Cathy Team to get the ball rolling! </a> Working with us is sure to be a touchdown! 2023-08-25T11:00:00-07:002023-12-05T10:07:56-07:00Ask Cathy Marketing Grouptag:askcathy.com,2012-09-20:29903Aspects That Go into Your Home Valuation
What Goes into a Home Value Estimate
Get a Free Home Value Estimate for Your Lee's Summit Property Today!
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At the end of the day, your home is only worth what a buyer will pay for it. Each buyer is different; some buyers look only at the size and quality of the house, while others pay more attention to schools and location. Below we have outlined some of the most important items that go into a home valuation.
Want to know what your home is worth in today's real estate market? <a href="https://askcathy.hifello.com/lp/6436ad6ae32334001ada8e24" target="_blank">We can help you with the information here! </a>
What Similar Homes In Your Area Sold For
This is a great place to start to determine what your home is worth. Look at homes with similar square footage, bedrooms, and bathrooms that sold within the last 12 months. These homes are also known as “comps”. Whether it is a chase home value, a comparative market analysis, or a home appraisal; most real estate experts will rely on comps to estimate your home's value.
How to Find an Accurate Comp
Similar Features: Search for homes with similar features such as type of home (two-story or ranch), year built, and the number of bedrooms.<br />Sold Recently: Look for homes that were recently sold – the more recent the better.<br />Distance: Choose homes in the same neighborhood. Homes in different subdivisions could have different HOA rules, schools, etc.
Finding an accurate comp can be difficult to do manually. Luckily we have software that analyzes hundreds of comps for any address with insights from local pricing experts. We then set up a complimentary, no-pressure consultation with you to determine your home selling goals, timeline, and whether now is the best time for you to sell.
<a href="https://askcathy.hifello.com/lp/6436ad6ae32334001ada8e24" target="_blank">You can get your complimentary home equity assessment here.</a>
Home Size & Usable Space
Your home is made up of finished and unfinished square footage. Appraisers and Realtors use the finished square footage to calculate the valuation. Finished space typically does not include garages, attics, and unfinished basements. For example, if a 2,500-square-foot home has a 600-square-foot garage, the livable space would be 1,900.
The value of a home is estimated by the sales price divided by the livable square footage of the house. The price per square foot would be $157.00 per square foot.
The price buyers will pay per square foot can vary greatly. Depending on the market and location of your home and the upgrades in the home, $157 may be a bargain price or more than the home is worth.
Upgrades & Updates
The impact of a specific upgrade or update varies depending on the market you're in and your existing home value. When consulting resources such as Zillow Home Valuation, or Zestimates, they don't always take into account things such as livable space, upgrades, and features. With so many variables, it is always best to consult with an expert agent before making any improvements or changes to your home.
<a href="https://www.askcathy.com/why-list-with-ask-cathy/">Click here to schedule a complimentary consultation with one of our expert agents.</a>
The Local Market
Even if your home is in the best location, in impeccable condition, and has top-of-the-line upgrades, the number of other homes in the area for sale in your area and the number of buyers in the market can impact your home's value. In the real estate world, there are two types of markets; a buyer's market and a seller's market.
<a href="https://askcathy.hifello.com/lp/6436ad6ae32334001ada8e24" target="_blank">Find out what your home is worth in today's market here.</a>
It’s easier to avoid common home-selling mistakes when you know the factors that influence the value of your home. Keep the above factors in mind when pricing your home to help attract serious buyers and prevent a long time on the market.2023-08-23T11:00:00-07:002023-12-07T14:57:50-07:00Ask Cathy Marketing Grouptag:askcathy.com,2012-09-20:29843Clutterbusters: Laundry Room!
Tips on Organizing Your Laundry Room!
Functions of the Laundry Room, Beautifying Your Laundry Room, and More!
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Hello, Clutterbusters! Welcome to another installment of your favorite repurposing and reimagining organization blog! We’ve covered a lot of different areas of the home in our previous blogs, and today - we are tackling no doubt one of the busiest hubs of your home - the laundry room!
Is your current laundry room less than stellar? Is it time for an upgrade? The Ask Cathy Team can help you find just the right home with all the amenities you've been searching for.<a href="https://www.askcathy.com/contact/" target="_blank"> Connect with us here.</a>
Location, Location, Location!
Depending on its location, your laundry room may or may not get a lot of “ public” attention, or it could be tucked away in one of the “family spaces” away from where guests to your home would normally be. From our experience of seeing many, many different homes, laundry rooms can be located in different areas, and depending on the floor plan, it could actually NOT be a room on its own at all. Some laundry rooms are located in a closet, hallway, basement, or garage. If it is in a very public area - say, in between your garage and your kitchen, not only does it need to be functional, it needs to be ready for visitors to walk through at any time. No matter where your laundry is located, it is definitely a well-used room in your house, and it also could be used every day, several times a day depending. This means decluttering yours and using it to the best of its ability, is of the utmost importance.
Conjunction Junction, What's Your Function?
One common denominator however with ALL laundry rooms is that it has to serve several functions. Determining those functions dictates what you use your particular laundry room for and will best help in making a plan for maximum efficiency and use.
Some of those functions are as follows:
Washing and drying laundry
Air Drying/hanging of laundry
Sorting/Folding
Clean and dirty laundry at the same time
Storage of cleaning products, linens, and miscellaneous
Drop zone for both dirty laundry and other items that miraculously find their way there.
Are there other functions that your laundry room serves or that you need it to handle? Does it serve a double duty? Is it a craft space, a mudroom, a bathroom, or a pantry? What else?
Need a home with more room? <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/buyers/personalized-home-search/" target="_blank">Set up a personalized home search to take a look at larger homes in your preferred areas! </a>
Hello Needs? Meet Laundry Room
Now that you have determined the functions of your laundry room, now it is time to give it a good look and determine the needs. If you currently have a solution solving that need, think about if it needs improvement or a better system. Some popular laundry room needs are as follows:
The need for storage
The need for efficiency
The need for cleanliness
The need for organization
That’s a lot of need for what most likely is a fairly small space. For most of us, sadly, a laundry room doesn’t cover a big piece of real estate in our house floor plan. (In this blog writer's opinion, this is a HUGE oversight by builders. A laundry room is a room that is essential to daily living, sometimes several times a day, so shouldn’t it have more space? I digress!). So back to the matter at hand. Short of doing a complete laundry room renovation, and finding space out of nothing, the key to dealing with this lack of square footage problem, is to make the most of the space you have and use every inch of space to its full capacity. Essentially, doing what we set out to do, making space out of nothing!
A Fresh (and Clean) Perspective!
Sometimes to truly get to the root of our laundry problem, we need to look at things differently. No doubt, when you moved into your home, it had cabinets and some storage already built in. This is from either the previous owner or the home’s builder installing what they think the laundry room should have. Maybe it is fantastic storage, and does everything you need it to do, and that is terrific! Your job of decluttering just became a lot less intimidating. More often than not, however, you just roll with the existing storage because it came with the house, or looks, at first glance, sufficient for your needs. Ask yourself, does it, really? Consider what pieces would help you organize your items more efficiently, and what items currently there that hinder the process. Think about using both the horizontal and vertical space.
Could high-up open shelving with great storage baskets give you more space than a traditional cupboard? Could raising your washer and dryer, either on drawers or a homemade platform, give you room for hampers and laundry baskets? Could a tabletop that folds down over the washer and dryer themselves give you the folding space you need? This is your permission to think outside the box.
Wash, Rinse, and Repeat!
The good news is that with your laundry room being a smaller space, its actual decluttering shouldn’t take too long. The steps are simple and straightforward:
Remove everything you can from the laundry room, (with the exception of the washer and dryer). This is a GREAT time to give it a really good cleaning, including finding that stray sock that disappeared behind the dryer.
Look at what you have taken out of the laundry room, what belongs there? What doesn't? Return ONLY the items that belong in the laundry room that currently have a function, and return other items to their correct space. One thing to note however is that just because it has always been the laundry room, doesn't mean that that is where it needs to stay. Is there a better use for the item? Would it be better or more functional elsewhere?
Discard any items that are broken, stained, ripped, and in less than usable condition. Donate things that are still usable, but not useful to you. Get them out of your home, and on their way to someone else who can use them.
Not All Beast, But Beauty Too
A laundry room does not have to be only utilitarian, it can be beautiful too. Some pretty wallpaper or some great art can go a long way in making the mundane task of doing laundry more delightful. Infuse your laundry room with some personality with items that make you happy. For instance, your blog writer has a small plaque sitting on a shelf next to my washer, it was a gift from a dear friend who lives across the country. Every time I see it, I think of that friend, our friendship, and smile. Being surrounded by things you love, even in the unlikeliest of places makes anything you do more enjoyable.
Want to know what your current home is worth on today's market? <a href="https://askcathy.hifello.com/lp/6436ad6ae32334001ada8e24" target="_blank">We can help with the information here! </a>2023-08-21T11:00:00-07:002023-12-05T10:20:30-07:00Ask Cathy Marketing Grouptag:askcathy.com,2012-09-20:29809A Treasure Hunt for All Ages!
Geocaching in Kansas City!
Tips on Getting Started With Geocaching, and More!
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Buried treasure is the stuff of myths and legends, but what if a hidden treasure were something you could actually discover?
When you combine the love of the hunt, the great outdoors, and your inner super sleuth - you have the perfect makings of a world-class geocacher! You may or may not have heard of the activity of geocaching, but if you are an adventurer at heart, this could be just the thing for you. Geocaching is indeed the ultimate treasure hunt for people of all ages, and it can be done almost anywhere, even all around the world! This week marks International Geocaching Day, so there is no better time to get started!
The basic principle of Geocaching is this: Via <a href="https://www.geocaching.com/play/mobile" target="_blank">the app</a> or <a href="https://www.geocaching.com/play" target="_blank">website</a>, determine the cache you would like to hunt for, grab your gear, and search for the cache. Once found, open the cache carefully. Next sign the logbook, which is also kept in the cache, to prove that you succeed in the journey and to mark your achievement! It’s fun to see how many people have also found the hidden cache. Then, take and replace a treasure, rehide the cache, and then you are off to your next adventure!
Another type of search that can add some adventure to your life is a search for a new home. <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/buyers/personalized-home-search/" target="_blank">Set up your personalized property search here</a>, and you will be on your way to another fun adventure!
Where Did Geocaching Come From?
Geocaching was preceded by another interesting activity called “Letterboxing”. Letterboxing is similar to geocaching where you locate a letter box via clues, and by using a compass, you attempt to locate the well-hidden letter box. Once found, a small ritual called "stamping up" is performed.
<a href="https://www.letterboxing.org/Smithsonian.html" target="_blank">“The letterboxer inks the stamp from the box and presses it into his own notebook, then inks his personal stamp and presses that into the little visitors' book that's kept in the box. It's double-proof that he's found the box. The stamp copy he takes home is the reward for his effort. Then the letterboxer reseals the box, replaces it in its hiding place, checks the clue sheet and the compass bearings, and heads off in search of the next letterbox.”</a>
If Letterboxing is the original treasure hunt, then Geocaching is its near and dear cousin, just amped up with a few more gadgets and gizmos!
What You Need to Get Started
All you need to get started in Geocaching is a GPS-capable device, like a cellphone, and access to a <a href="https://www.geocaching.com/play" target="_blank">geocaching website</a> or the downloadable <a href="https://www.geocaching.com/play/mobile" target="_blank">app</a>. It is free to play, though there are certain features you could select for a charge, but the basic geocaching is completely free. By entering certain coordinates from your app, or into a regular type of GPS, you are on your way to finding your first cache.
What is a cache, you might ask? That is the hidden treasure! With geocaching, the cache is the hidden container that contains some sort of prize or trinket that you are able to keep, as long as you replace it with something of equal or greater value. It doesn’t have to be fancy or expensive, it just gives a new prize for the next geocacher to find. So think about something that you might like to find and bring that with you.
According to Geocache.com, “Geocaches come in all shapes and sizes. The creativity of geocaches is endless. Some will be small Tupperware containers, others will be micro containers the size of your fingernail. Make sure to read the size in your app to get on the right path. (Geocaches will never be buried).”
You can also add to that number by leaving your own hidden cache and registering it on the site. As a reminder, never leave a new cache on a person’s private property, as this could be considered trespassing, and you wouldn’t want to put fellow geocachers in an awkward situation! Only place caches in areas where you have obtained permission from the rightful owner.
Some Helpful Advice for Geocachers
There are a variety of different caches, all hidden in varying degrees of difficulty, so if you are a budding geocacher, it might make sense to start with a few simple ones to get your feet wet! Though being outside, you actually may want to plan for getting your feet wet! You never know!
While we are on the subject, here are some other basics that you want to bring along with you, to help make your geocaching even more productive.
Geocaching Tool Bag
A bag to keep your tools in, and also for the treasures you will be taking and leaving behind.
A small flashlight
A pen
Water
Bug spray
Sunscreen
Tools for Particularly Tricky Geocaches
A small mirror for checking under objects
A tiny screwdriver
A magnet
Common Sense Rules for the Geocacher
Tell someone where you are headed, no matter how old and responsible you are!
Make sure your phone is fully charged.
Wear sturdy shoes with long socks to protect you from bug bites or injuries.
Do not go into dangerous places.
Deciding to move and not knowing what your current property may be worth can be scary! <a href="https://askcathy.hifello.com/lp/6436ad6ae32334001ada8e24" target="_blank">Find out your current market value here!</a>
A Special Note for Geocaching with Children
Geocaching can be an activity for the whole family, of all ages, but some care should be taken if you have junior geocachers with you on the hunt! Though children often like to “do it themselves” finding, opening, and maintaining the cache can sometimes be a job that they need some adult help and supervision for. It is important to maintain the integrity of the cache, not to damage it, and to leave it as you found it, with a new treasure that you leave inside. So be sure to keep a close eye on those small hands that come with you, so that they can learn the magic of geocaching, and also the responsibility for keeping it for others as well.
Some Wise Words from Treasure Hunters
Whether you are new to letterboxing or geocaching, there are some basic principles to remember put forth by letterboxers and adopted by geocachers, that are still incredibly important and act as a code for the activity.
Be Stealthy:
In the case of other geocachers, when you are looking for or locating a box, please be stealthy. You don’t want to ruin anyone else’s fun by spoiling the surprise of uncovering the box in their presence. Also, not everyone out in the areas you will find caches, are geocachers. So you also don’t want to reveal its location in case someone just disposes of or takes the cache.
Respect the Environment:
Cache in, trash out. Make sure you bring out all that you bring in with you in the means of trash, and that you respect the plantings and environment around you as you hunt.
Re-Hide Well:
After logging and replacing the treasure with one of your very own, be sure to re-hide the cache well, as you found it. You never want to leave a cache unhidden, where someone other than a Geocacher can find it, nor do you want to take all the fun out of the hunt for the next person to discover.
Have Fun:
Geocaching is meant to be a fun activity, which will sharpen your inquisitive skills, and take you to new places. It is also an opportunity to connect with and meet new people that enjoy it as well. Have fun while doing so! With more than 3 million geocaches located all over the world, there should be plenty of hidden spots to keep you busy for a long time!
So if this is a pastime that you enjoy, you will have no shortage of fun places for you to visit, and we hope that you make many great caches along the way!
Thinking about moving but don't know where to start? The Ask Cathy Team wants to help you with your next greatest adventure. <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/meet-our-team/" target="_blank"> Meet our team here</a> and connect with us below! 2023-08-18T11:00:00-07:002023-12-05T10:28:17-07:00Ask Cathy Marketing Grouptag:askcathy.com,2012-09-20:29723Listing Spotlight: 19512 Amherst Street, Gardner KS
Fantastic, Better Than New Home Available in Gardner, KS!
4 Bed | 3 Bath | 2,947 Square Feet True Ranch!
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For our latest listing spotlight, we’re going to take an in-depth look at this gorgeous true ranch home available for sale in Garnder, KS! This home is better than new, and is conveniently located in the Tuscan Farms subdivision. If you want to schedule a private viewing of this home, or learn more information, make sure to <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/property-search/detail/109/2446804/19512-amherst-st-gardner-ks-66030/" target="_blank">check out the listing on our website</a>! You can also check out our virtual tour below, where Pam Bardy, listing agent extraordinaire for the Ask Cathy team walks you through all of the great features of this home!
Front Entry, Upgraded Flooring, and a HUGE Family Room!
As soon as you step into the home through the front entry, your eyes will be immediately drawn to the recently upgraded luxury vinyl plank floors that continue throughout the entire main floor, and draw you into the generously sized Family room! The family room contains an attractive floor-to-ceiling stone front electric fireplace, and 2” blinds as well!
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INCREDIBLE Kitchen, Spacious Dining Area, and Two-Tier Covered Patio!
Located next to the Family room, you’ll find an incredible kitchen, featuring white kitchen cabinets with slate appliances and a gas range, as well as a HUGE quartz island, and a super convenient walk-in butler’s pantry! Additionally, the extremely spacious dining area located next to the kitchen contains all the space you could ever need for your dining table, as well as convenient access to the two-tier covered patio with multiple ceiling fans!
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Master Suite Featuring Spacious Walk-In Closet and Gorgeous Bath!
The Master Suite of this home is located on the main floor, and features a spacious walk-in closet and a fantastic tiled bath with a quartz double vanity and walk-in shower! Additionally, you can enjoy a convenient bedroom-level laundry as well!
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Additional Bedrooms on the Main Level Each With a Walk-In Closet!
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Recently Finished Lower Level With Tons of Features!
Downstairs, you’ll find a recently finished lower level that includes tile floors, a built-in fireplace, shiplap accents, and additional counters and cabinets for storage and entertaining! The true 4th bedroom with egress on this floor includes a spacious double closet, along with a bath tile, barn door, quartz countertop, and a walk-in shower. This room can be used as a flex room for anything from a home office, exercise room, and more!
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ENORMOUS 4-Car Tandem Garage and Level Backyard Opening to Greenspace!
To top it off, this home comes with an incredibly large 4-car tandem garage, perfect for storing a boat, recreational vehicle, storage space, or a home shop. This home also includes a lovely, level backyard that opens up to greenspace, with in-ground sprinklers in the front yard and backyard.
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Contact Us Today to Tour This Wonderful Home in Garnder, KS!
If you are interested in learning more about this home, or scheduling your own private tour, make sure to contact a member of our team today by calling us at (816) 258-4033, or by filling out the contact form below!2023-08-16T14:00:00-07:002023-08-16T14:29:59-07:00Ask Cathy Marketing Grouptag:askcathy.com,2012-09-20:29716Home Improvements That Will Give You a Return on Your Investment!
Making a Good Return on Your Renovation Investment!
Home Improvements that Help Sell Your Home!
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Whether you are thinking of renovating to improve the quality of life in your home to stay or making some changes to increase the profit to sell your home, we all want to make sure we are making a good investment. When it comes to home improvements, it is important to know which types of renovations will make the most sense and go a long way to increase the value of your home.
Not everyone has an endless budget when it comes to home improvements, and that is why is especially important to make sure that every dollar you spend is worthwhile.
The Ask Cathy team is approached quite often by our clients, or future clients, who are thinking of making a few changes around their home, and the most common question is - which home renovations are worth the money? Future home sellers want to get the most out of their current home, so that they can purchase a different home that meets more of their needs, and new homeowners want to make sure that the hard-earned money that they are investing in the home they just purchased is helping their equity instead of hurting it. While we cannot guarantee that every dollar you invest in your home will be returned when it comes time to sell, we can tell you some of the most lucrative changes you can make to expect some equity in return.
Want to find out how much your home is worth before any renovation or changes?<a href="https://askcathy.hifello.com/lp/6436ad6ae32334001ada8e24" target="_blank"> Find that information here! </a>
Kitchen
The kitchen is a space where you can spend a lot of money improving, and for good reason, it is one of the most important rooms in the house. However, you don’t have to complete a full-blown renovation to make a difference in equity. Even a small budget can make a difference in sprucing up your outdated kitchen. Some top places to make some changes.
Countertops - Updating tiled or formica counters to solid surfaces like granite, Silestone, or Quartz is always an excellent choice. Countertops that are easy to clean, and a neutral palette are the best choices.
New Appliances - Old tired appliances immediately date a kitchen. By replacing them with matching modern appliances, gives your whole kitchen an immediate update. Stainless steel appliances are one of the most popular selections.
Fixtures - If you are only able to a minor change, updating cabinet hardware to a more current finish, or replacing the kitchen faucet is always a great and simple option.
Bathroom
Bathrooms are another spot where with just a few changes, you can make a big difference. Upgrading flooring to a sleek easy-to-clean tile, and replacing countertops, faucets, or light fixtures all make a remarkable difference in making an outdated bathroom look new again.
Flooring
Refinishing scratched and worn hardwoods is an immediate return. Removing old carpet and replacing it with hardwood flooring is ideal, and an extremely desirable feature for home buyers.
If replacing carpets is not in your budget, giving them a professional cleaning can breathe some new life into them. Stretching the carpet also helps them appear newer and extend their life in your home.
Roof
Making sure the roof of your home is leak free is a sound and wise investment. While being one of the most costly repairs, is something that potential buyers will look at a huge perk when deciding between one home or another. Most roof replacements can mean the difference between a potential buyer purchasing your home, or walking away from it altogether.
Major Systems
Replacing old, moderately functioning systems with new energy-efficient systems is also a huge plus. Not only will your lower utility bills reflect the new efficiency, but your home can also compete with new construction builds where every system is new.
Basement Finishing
Adding extra square footage also is a wise investment. Neutral finishes and flexible floorplan enable future buyers to see potential uses in the space, without being confined by a theme or a floorplan.
Looking for a home with a particular floorplan? <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/buyers/personalized-home-search/" target="_blank"> Set up a personalized property search</a> and find out what is on the market in your preferred areas!
Landscape
Giving your yard’s landscape a facelift goes a long way. Curb appeal is one of those areas people take for granted. Did you know that the appearance of your home from the outside can sway a potential buyer to go inside? The condition and appearance of your yard are a good indication to potential buyers of what they may find on the inside. If your yard or landscaping looks messy or unkempt, the buyer will think you don’t care about the inside of your home either. If your curb appeal and landscape are well-kept and inviting, it will draw a person in to see the rest of your home.
Paint
Giving your home, or even a few rooms a new coat of paint is a quick and relatively inexpensive way to give your home a pick me up. Remove any dated wallpaper and use neutral paint colors that will give your home a newer appearance. Bold color or gender-specific color choices can actually make a home buyer shy away from selecting your home.
Lighting
Replacing tired light fixtures or adding more light to a room is always a plus. If the design of a fixture is still usable with current trends, but the color is dated, consider removing it, and giving it a fresh coat of paint. New glass shades can also help make an older fixture feel more modern.
When all is said and done, the best investments you can make in your home are ones that will go a long way in enticing future home buyers. Staying away from strong personal choices, and leaning towards more neutral colors and fresh new fixtures help future buyers feel like there is more to love and less to change about your home. If you are planning on living in your home for a long time, make major upgrades, like countertops and flooring with a neutral color scheme, and reflect your own unique personal style and personality in your furniture and home decor choices. These items are easily removed if and when it does come time to sell.
Thinking of moving instead of renovating? Our team can help you with selling your current home and buying your next one. Find out more about <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/sellers/why-list-with-ask-cathy/" target="_blank">selling with the Ask Cathy Team here</a>, and connect with us below! 2023-08-16T11:00:00-07:002023-12-05T10:34:35-07:00Ask Cathy Marketing Grouptag:askcathy.com,2012-09-20:29669History of Victory Gardens, and How You Can Grow a Victory Garden of Your Own!
What is a Victory Garden?
Origin of the "Victory Garden" and Resources to Start Your Own!
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Food shortages and limited resources affect us all. Whether it calls for the tightening of our budgets, or doing without, a diminished food supply can have lasting ramifications. <a href="https://www.feedingamerica.org/hunger-in-america#:~:text=in%20your%20community%20%3E-,Hunger%20Facts,-34" target="_blank">Here i</a><a href="https://www.feedingamerica.org/hunger-in-america#:~:text=in%20your%20community%20%3E-,Hunger%20Facts,-34" target="_blank">n the United States, over 34 million people are food insecure, with 49 million people utilizing food assistance programs.</a> Rising food prices and shortages due to supply chain demands, along with climate changes that affect what were once bountiful crops, have created a bit of a wake-up call for some needed change.
Want to know the current market value of your home? <a href="https://askcathy.hifello.com/lp/6436ad6ae32334001ada8e24">Find out here. </a>
Current Problem: The Ever Rising Cost of Food
In recent years, there have been some significant changes in our country's food landscape. Covid-19 shutdowns, climate change, and an increase in genetically modified food sources, all have made people stop and think about where their food comes from and its accessibility.
Food prices have been continuing to increase at a steady pace, so much so that certain food items that used to be commonplace, take a moment or two of decision before heading to the checkout line.
According to the <a href="https://www.ers.usda.gov/data-products/food-price-outlook/summary-findings/" target="_blank">United States Department of Agriculture</a>, food prices now are 5.7 percent higher than in June 2022. In 2023,
The food-at-home (grocery store or supermarket food purchases) is now at 4.7 percent higher than in June 2022.
Food away from home (restaurant purchases) was 7.7 percent higher than in June 2022.
Predicted for 2024, all food prices are predicted to increase by 2.4 percent
Food-at-home prices are predicted to increase by 0.9 percent
Food-away-from-home prices are predicted to increase by 6.1 percent.
This can be a bit bleak news for consumers, and now more than ever, it is important to make use of what we have and to think carefully about ways to reduce waste and tap into the assets that we have around us.
So the question is, is there a way to combat the ever-increasing food cost, and make a difference, not only in your own life but those around you as well? To some, there is an obvious solution which means taking a page from our past, while keeping an eye on our future. The reintroduction of the modern-day “Victory Garden”.
A Resolution for the Future with Inspiration from the Past
So there is the inevitable question. What is a Victory Garden? For those of you who are unfamiliar, there was a time in our history when there was a true shortage of food supply and other resources. Food prices were very dear and items were rationed or nonexistent. That time was during World War I and World War II.
During war times, food supply chains were interrupted, and valuable resources were needed where our troops were, instead of on the home front. In response to this need, was the movement of the Victory Garden. Not only did citizens participate in this movement, but citizens in the urban areas who had access to even a small patch of land, joined in. These Victory Gardens were used to plant fruits, vegetables, and herbs to alleviate the strain on the food supply chain in their local area and to divert more of the current food resources and supply chains to the war-stricken areas as well as to the military. It was a way that people could do their part in the war effort. By increasing the availability of essential food items and alleviating pressure on the public food supply, people were able to claim “victory” on the shortage of food, by supplementing the food at home with their Victory Garden. These gardens were a true morale booster for a country deep in worry over the war and gave people a sense of accomplishment and empowerment as they did their part in the war effort.
<a href="http://sanctuarysoil.com/the-victory-garden-then-and-now/" target="_blank">By 1945, an estimated 20 million Victory Gardens produced approximately 40 percent of America’s vegetables</a>. Government agencies, private foundations, businesses, schools, and seed companies all worked together to provide land, instruction, and seeds for individuals and communities to grow food.
“Dig For Victory”, “Sow Seeds For Victory”, and “Can All You Can! It’s a Real War Job!” were just some of the slogans and advertisements that were made to encourage people to embrace the patriotic call of the Victory Garden. <a href="https://library.si.edu/exhibition/cultivating-americas-gardens/gardening-for-the-common-good#:~:text=In%201943%2C%20with%20World%20War%20II%20underway%2C%20First%20Lady%20Eleanor%20Roosevelt%20had%20a%20victory%20garden%20planted%20on%20the%20front%20lawn%20of%20the%20White%20House%E2%80%94just%20one%20of%20the%20millions%20of%20victory%20gardens%20planted%20that%20year." target="_blank">Even First Lady, Eleanor Roosevelt planted a Victory Garden on the White House lawn in 1943</a>. The United States was not the only country participating in the Victory Garden movement. Similar gardens were planted in the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia to also help with food shortages in their own countries.
As wartime ended, food supply chains increased, and the demand for homegrown food lessened. Food production and distribution resumed back to conventional methods. As time went on, where homegrown gardens were once plentiful, their presence lessened as food access became more and more convenient.
With recent strains not only financially but also with a higher demand for truly organic fruits and vegetables, the modern-day Victory Garden could be an ingenious solution to today’s growing problem. Certainly, for some of the population, the homegrown garden has never gone away. It might have diminished to the point where it was only used for a smaller variety of foods, but for some homes providing at least some of their own food from their own efforts has always been their way of life. For others, especially people who may have grown up in an urban area, growing their own food may be something they need to embrace through research and education before implementing it in their own yards.
Don't own your own yard but would like to? <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/buyers/" target="_blank">Learn all about buying a home</a> from the Ask Cathy Team.
Here in Kansas City, there are a number of resources for you to partake in to aid in the education of provisional food growing. The <a href="https://kccg.org" target="_blank">Kansas City Community Gardens</a> for one, offers free in-person workshops in a variety of subjects. For those of you unable to attend in person, there are video recordings and PowerPoint downloads for all the workshops as well.
Some of the classes offered are:
Growing in Raised Beds
Vegetable Garden Basics
Growing Herbs
Selecting Fruit Trees and Berry Bushes
For those who do not have access to property of your own, but still want to partake in growing your own food, there are garden plots that are able to be rented for you to do your growing.
Similarly, <a href="http://www.growinggrowers.org/workshops.html" target="_blank">“Growing Growers” Kansas City </a>has a number of workshops and free resource videos for learning.
Growing for the Future
Your growing spot doesn’t have to be big. For apartment dwellers, it could be a rooftop or balcony garden. You could even supplement your food stores by only growing one item - like tomatoes or herbs.
For those with a yard, who are new to growing, start small and work from there. There is no need to give your whole backyard over to a fullscale garden, unless you want to. Plantings of fruits and vegetables can be blended into the nature landscape or existing gardens.
For families, showing your children a new way to participate in the love of food can have a lasting impact on their own future, and instill a love of gardening that would have remained undiscovered.
For those of you not looking to grow your own vegetables, but wanting to support those that do, a trip to your town’s local farmers market can make a huge difference in a local grower's income. When you don’t purchase fruits and vegetables from the grocery store, it barely makes a dent in the company’s profits, but if you purchase from a local farmer or grower - your purchase is significant for their well-being and directly helps provide for their farm and family.
Here is a list of some <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/blog/why-farmers-markets-are-a-great-place-to-shop/" target="_blank">great local farmer’s markets</a> in our area and then <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/blog/supporting-your-local-economy-through-farmers-markets/" target="_blank">even more</a>.
With all these incredible Kansas City resources, you can begin a Victory Garden of your very own, and tap into a bit of history you might not have known of before!
Looking for the perfect plot for your victory garden? Set up a<a href="https://www.askcathy.com/buyers/personalized-home-search/" target="_blank"> personalized property search</a> for a home with the land you've been dreaming of!2023-08-14T11:00:00-07:002023-12-05T11:02:09-07:00Ask Cathy Marketing Grouptag:askcathy.com,2012-09-20:29635Back-to-School Rituals!
Creating Family Memories For the Start of the New School Year
Fun School Rituals and Family Traditions
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Another school year is upon us!
Rituals or traditions established by your family can make the transition from summer to school year easier on your kiddos and give them something to look forward to as summer winds down. Traditions also serve as a memory builder for your students for years to come, giving them something to reminisce about long after their last day of school. Though it may be easy just to treat the first day of school like any other day, taking even a little time and giving it, and your kids some special attention will help make the day much smoother, and more fun too!
Looking to move into a new school district? <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/buyers/personalized-home-search/" target="_blank">Set up a detailed property search for your new home here.</a>
School Supply Shop
No doubt, this is an activity every student looks forward to, whether they are in first grade or freshman year. Updating and replenishing tired, and worn-out supplies from the year before and starting afresh. It is part of the first day of school “clean slate” where everything is new and exciting. Crisp notebooks, new pencils, a snazzy pencil pouch - ah the delights of the season! It almost ensures a successful and studious school year!
Night Before Organizing
Getting everything ready the night before is essential to a smooth day when new habits and routines are most crucial. Set out the back-to-school outfit, pre-pack the lunch or prep as much as possible, and have backpacks ready to go. Teaching your child to prep the night before each school day, will establish healthy organizational skills and habits for their lifetime.
Night Before School Treat
Scare away the night-before jitters with a fun activity. Have a family game night and ice cream Sunday party. Have a smores night around the firepit. Any activity that encourages talking about what they are looking forward to the next day, or maybe something that they are nervous about. Encouraging your kids to confide in you will go a long way when they have bigger issues at hand. It might seem like a minor issue to the adult you, but for a kiddo, seemingly simple problems can be quite large. Truly listen to what they have to say, don’t discount their feelings. Give them confidence and let them know you are always there for them.
Special Back-to-School Breakfast
Start the morning with a bang, with an extra special breakfast of your kid's favorite things. Decorate the table with special plates or fun placemats and serve it up with a special flair. Breakfast is really an important start to their day, and can eliminate some of those first-day butterflies. Encourage all family members to participate in this special event.
Curious as to what your current home is worth in today's market. <a href="https://askcathy.hifello.com/lp/6436ad6ae32334001ada8e24" target="_blank">Find that information out here. </a>
Special School Day Lunch
If you pack your kid's lunch, preparing a delicious and nutritious meal not only gives them something to look forward to but also fuels them for the rest of the day. If possible do not overload them with carbs or sweets which will lead to them feeling tired and overly full. You can also inspire budding chefs by asking them before grocery shopping what types of things they would enjoy eating, as well as letting them prepare or help prepare their lunches.
Passage of Time Traditions
Some of these rituals are long-established and well-used by parents everywhere, but it doesn’t make them any less special. Marking the passage of time with your children is an important feat and gives them (and you) special memories and sometimes a good laugh.
A picture of your student in the same spot every year.
A print of their handprint each year, with on paper, or on a special t-shirt.
Mark their height on a growth chart or the old school way ( a door frame) - gives you a special ritual to mark how tall they are getting each year.
First day of school interview - every year - though this might be better done the night before school for time purposes, asking the same questions to them each year, and then tucking the interview away, enables you to give them a precious and meaningful gift when their school days are over.
Pocket change. Do you think that you waste a dollar a day on meaningless things? Do you know that if you take that one dollar, put it in an envelope each school day, and tuck it away, by the time your student graduates, you can hand them a really large pile of envelopes worth approximately $2,160? A school year is approximately 180 days times 12 years (1st grade to High School graduation) is 2,160. That goes a long way in college book shopping without much effort. Tuck in an encouraging note, or a special memory to one of the envelopes each week for an even sweeter surprise.
After-School Decompress and Debriefing
Even though you may not be there immediately when your kiddos come home each day, it is important to catch up with them at some point and let them tell you about their day. “ How was school?” - which will get you a one-word answer like “good or fine” in return. Asking more leading questions like “Tell me about your day” or What was the best/worst thing about your day” gives them an opportunity to give you more details about how it went for them and invites true conversation. Also asking if they have any special assignments coming up, or anything that could be worrisome or need help with. As this becomes a habit for them, you will find that they will freely come to you as it establishes an open line of communication and a level of trust where they can feel comfortable and confident to share both the good and the bad. Another perk to taking time to listen each day after school, is that with this open line of communication, you won’t find out they need 48 cupcakes for the school bake sale, the morning of the bake sale.
Morning Motivational Notes
Be sure to add a pack or two of colorful sticky notes and markers to your back-to-school supply buying list, not for your kiddos - but for you. Leaving them aptly placed sticky notes each morning with encouraging words (or fun pictures and symbols for non-readers) will go a long way in creating a cheerful morning, and again is something they look forward to waking up to. Their room, their bathroom, at the breakfast table, where they get their coat, all are great places for them to find a note.
Backpack Notes
In the same vein, finding a longer, encouraging note tucked into their backpack - makes them feel special. Sharing a memory, an encouraging word, or a simple “I love you, or I am proud of you” gives your student confidence, and a little extra pep in their step throughout the day. You can even purchase notecards or stationary specifically for this purpose, giving it even more of a heightened importance.
For Parents
From personal experience, we know that the beginning of each school year is a bittersweet experience. While you are happy the kids are in school, growing, and learning - and let’s face it - not monopolizing every minute of each waking hour - there are other feelings too. The beginning (and ending) of each school year decidedly marks the passage of time, in a very concrete and obvious way. As time marches on, your kiddos are less dependent on you as they mature, and though this is precisely what you hope for with them - there could also be a sense of sadness that comes along with that. The school year - beginning or end - concretely marks the passage of time in a very real way, and as long as those days may seem now, in current time, there will be a day someday soon, to look back and say (in a very clique way) “Where did that time go?”. Personally, your blog writer looks back at many things that they wish they did differently to mark those ordinary, yet extraordinary moments. You truly, do not get them back. So however you spend the last days leading up to the next chapter in your kiddo's lives - savor it. These days will never come again. Make as many memories as possible, and give hugs lavishly.
Do you and your family have any traditions that are special to you? We would love to hear about them.
Looking to move to a new school district? The Ask Cathy team can help get you an A+ home near the school you are hoping for! <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/contact/" target="_blank">Give us a call!</a>2023-08-11T11:00:00-07:002023-12-05T11:05:04-07:00Ask Cathy Marketing Grouptag:askcathy.com,2012-09-20:29596Ensuring the Success of Your Mortgage Broker to Ensure the Success of Your Closing
Ways to Help Your Mortgage Broker
Tips on the Home Closing Process
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While we don't want to put on the brakes on all the fun you may be having searching for a new home, we do want you to take a breather for a second and consider the part of the home-buying process that, while somewhat tedious and seemingly overwhelming, is necessary to your success in finding and getting your new home: the financial elements. (Cue: collective sigh)
Numbers, paperwork, and financial buzzwords like interest, taxes, and insurance may make you a bit uncomfortable, particularly if you are not readily familiar with them, but when you put your trust in an experienced mortgage broker, this part of the home-buying process can seem more like a walk in the park than crawling through the dark.
Working in tandem with your mortgage broker does require your time and attention, but with a proven and solid mortgage broker, it doesn't have to be the nightmare you think it will be, especially if you stick to the game plan:
Five Ways to Help Your Mortgage Lender and Close on Your New Home
Call your mortgage broker immediately. Their job is not to simply find you a loan but also to guide you through the home-buying process, alongside your Realtor Ⓡ.
Familiarize yourself with the rules related to down payments. Your mortgage broker can determine the best - and legal! - way to make that down payment. For example, if you are using gift money to make that payment, you have to make sure everything is thoroughly documented. Keep everything well-documented and above board to avoid any issues.
Remember that your mortgage broker is on YOUR team, so keep in constant communication with them. Share any and all documentation and keep them aware of any credit problems you might have. While they are there to help you, you can help them by having all of your necessary papers in order and ready.
Stay the course. This is not the time to do something out of the ordinary. In other words, avoid any new major purchases or any large expenses. That new furniture, a new car, or any other lofty purchases can - and should - wait until after you close on your home. You don't want to put your loan at risk. Even if you are offered a new job, work to put that off until you close on your home. You don't want to put your loan at risk. Even if you are offered a new job, work to put that off until after you close. Even though it may be tempting to go off the rails for something like this, keep your focus on the road ahead. There will be a time and a place to incorporate these changes into your life after you move into your home! Avoid sudden changes in your financial life to avoid potentially pushing back your closing date. This is when patience truly is a virtue.
Curious as to what your current home is worth in today's market? <a href="https://askcathy.hifello.com/lp/6436ad6ae32334001ada8e24" target="_blank">Find that information out here. </a>
Five Initial Steps to Purchasing a Home
Save Your Down Payment
Many people believe you need a 20% down payment to buy a home. There are loans available that allow buyers to put down as little as 3% to 0% down with a VA or USDA loan.
Know Your Credit Score
Your credit score is a numeric representation of your history & ability to pay back debts in the past. Different home loans have different credit requirements.
Reach Out to Your Ask Cathy Realtor Ⓡ
Once you have a handle on your credit score & down payment savings, now is the time to reach out to your Ask Cathy agent. We are here to make sure you find the best lender as well as make sure your home-buying journey is as seamless as possible.
Get Pre-Approved
We have a list of lenders that can work with you to get pre-approved for your mortgage. This will help keep you on budget during the next step!
Go Homeshopping!
Make a list of what you want vs. what you need in your new home. We will use this list to find homes for you to tour.
<a href="https://www.askcathy.com/buyers/personalized-home-search/" target="_blank">Set up a detailed personalized home search using your wishlist here. </a>
<a href="https://www.askcathy.com/contact/" target="_blank">Contact the Ask Cathy Marketing Group if You Have Any Questions About the Home-Buying Process!</a>
If you have any questions about finding an experienced mortgage broker, or any other step of the home-buying process, make sure to contact a member of our team today! Our Realtors Ⓡ have decades of experience helping clients buy and sell their homes and can refer you to the best local mortgage brokers here in Kansas City, as well as guide you through the process of buying or selling a home. Contact us today by calling us at (816) 268-4033, or by filling out the contact form below!2023-08-09T11:00:00-07:002023-12-05T11:13:11-07:00Ask Cathy Marketing Grouptag:askcathy.com,2012-09-20:29549Supporting Your Local Economy Through Farmers Markets!
Local Kansas City Farmers Markets
Ways You Can Support Local Businesses During National Farmers Market Week
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Now more than ever, it is essential to support our local economy. This can come in many forms - eating at small local restaurants instead of eating at national chains, purchasing goods and services from small locally-owned businesses instead of large corporate franchises, or even purchasing from local makers on Etsy and craft fairs instead of relying on Amazon. One of the best ways to do so is to purchase food from local sources.
This week marks “National Farmers Market Week” so it is a great reminder to shop at your local farmers market for the best and most convenient access to fresh organic fruits vegetables, and other local products. We are proud supporters of small businesses, partly in truth, because the Ask Cathy Marketing Group is one!
In the past, we have given you information on why you should purchase food from local farmers at local markets and provided a short list of popular spots. <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/blog/why-farmers-markets-are-a-great-place-to-shop/" target="_blank">Here is that list.</a>
Today, we are delving deeper into other opportunities to you to experience some other markets. We are so fortunate to live in an area where there are several. Have you tried shopping at any of these?
Looking to live closer to your favorite farmers market? <a href="https://www.askcathy.com/buyers/personalized-home-search/" target="_blank"> The Ask Cathy Team can help. Set up a personalized property search here to see what is currently available! </a>
Even MORE Local Farmers Markets
City of Independence Farmers Market
Location: Walnut & Liberty St, Independence, MO 64050
2023 Schedule (Times may vary)
May to October, Saturday: 6:00 AM - 1:00 PM
June to October, Wednesday: 6:00 AM - 1:00 PM
This farmers market accepts: Supplemental Assistance Program (SNAP)
Some of the many items for sale at this market:
Baked Goods
Arts & Crafts
Flowers
Eggs
Herbs
Vegetables
Honey
Jams
Nuts
Plants
Fruits
Ivanhoe Farmers Market
Location: 3700 Woodland, Kansas City, MO 64109
2023 Schedule (Times may vary)
June to September, Friday: 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
This farmers market accepts:
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
Some of the many items for sale at this market:
Organic foods
Baked goods
Arts & crafts
Jams
Plants
<a href="http://www.historicdowntownliberty.org/community/farmers-market/" target="_blank">Historic Downtown Liberty Farmers Market</a>
Location: 111 N. Water St. Liberty, MO 64068
2023 Schedule (Times may vary)
May to October, Sunday: 7:00 AM - 12:00 PM
This farmers market accepts:
Credit Cards
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
Some of the many items for sale at this market:
Organic foods
Baked goods
Arts & crafts
Jams
Plants
<a href="https://www.missionks.org/parks-recreation/mission-market/" target="_blank">Mission Farm and Flower Market</a>
Location: 5635 Johnson Drive, Mission, KS 66202
2023 Schedule (Time may vary)
June to September, Thursday: 4:30 PM - 8:00 PM
This farmers market accepts:
Credit Cards
Senior Farmers Markets Nutrition Program (SFMNP)
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
Gladstone Farmers Market
Location: 4109 NE Pleasant Valley Road, Gladstone, MO 64119
Hours: Saturdays, May 7th through October 29th, 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM
This farmers market accepts:
Credit Cards
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
Some of the many items for sale at this market:
Baked goods
Arts & crafts
Flowers
Eggs
Herbs
Vegetables
Honey
Jams
Plants
Fruits
<a href="https://www.cityofshawnee.org/residents/farmers_market" target="_blank">Shawnee Farmers Market</a>
Location: 11110 Johnson Drive, Shawnee, KS 66203
2023 Schedule (Times may vary)
May to October, Saturday: 7:00 AM - 12:00 PM
This farmers market accepts:
Credit Cards
Senior Farmers Markets Nutrition Program (SFMNP)
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
<a href="https://www.cityofshawnee.org/residents/moonlight_market" target="_blank">Shawnee Moonlight Market</a>
Location: 11110 Johnson Drive, Shawnee, KS 66203
Third Thursdays, May - October: 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM, City Hall Parking Lot
Zona Rosa Farmers Market
Location: Off of I-29 and Barry Road, Kansas City, MO 64153
2023 Schedule (Times may vary)
June to September, Tuesday: 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Some of the many items for sale at this market:
Baked goods
Vegetables
Honey
Jams
Fruits
Curious as to what your current home is worth? <a href="https://askcathy.hifello.com/lp/6436ad6ae32334001ada8e24" target="_blank"> Find that information out here. </a>2023-08-07T11:00:00-07:002023-12-05T11:20:25-07:00Ask Cathy Marketing Group