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Looking for a new home in subdivisions near the new MCI airport?

2/22/2023

Ed Rippee - Subdivision Kansas City Metro.jpeg
The new airport terminal is drawing a lot of new interest in Kansas City! People who tend to travel for work find it convenient to live in subdivisions near the new MCI airport. Plus, having public transportation lines nearby is an added convenience, as well.

If you are interested in living near the new MCI airport, consider moving to Platte Woods, Gladstone, Parkville, Platte City or Riverside all on the Missouri side of the Kansas City Metro.

Within these towns, you’ll find the subdivisions near the new MCI airport include:

  • Platte Woods: Silverbrooke, Park View Manor, Highland Meadows, Riverstone, Summit
  • Gladstone: Santerra, Sar Snook, The Creeks of Gladstone
  • Parkville: New Mark, The Woods at Creekside, Stonegate Community, Chapel Ridge, Weatherby Lake, Walnut Creek, Forest Ridge, Shoal Creek Valley, Creekside
  • Platte City: Windmill Creek, Lakes at Oakmont, New Bedford Falls, Heritage Village
  • Riverside: Villas at Highland Grove, Beazer Homes Hillcrest, Vistas at Mockingbird Canyon, Lennar at Citrus Heights

If you are interested in finding a subdivision near the new MCI airport, we can help you find the home that fits your needs. Just let us know what type of home you are looking for. To help narrow the search, we like to know the price point, number of bedrooms, bathrooms, garage spaces; amenities, schools, shopping or even if you want a home or a townhome. And any other information you know you want your new home to have.

Ed Rippee can help you find the home you want in the subdivision and price point you can afford without breaking the bank.

If you are looking for a subdivision near the new MCI airport, just call Ed Rippee and he can help you find your new home today! He can give you the latest information and help make your home buying or selling, a smooth transition.

Pointers for Land Buyers in the Northland

2/14/2023

Land Buyers in the Northland - Ed Rippee.jpeg
If you are a land buyer looking in the Northland of Kansas City, we have some great points for you to consider.

First consider how much land you want to own. Do you need lots of space for recreational use or farming? Or do you want to keep it smaller because of taxes? How close do you want your neighbors?

Land buyers in the Northland will want to consider the proximity to land as well. Think about how far you are willing to drive for groceries, healthcare and schools. Will you have access to the electrical grid, drinking water and sewage? Or will it have to be established for you?

With many people ditching their land lines or working from home, will land buyers in the Northland have access to internet and cell service? You might want to check with your local cell service, cable and internet providers to see what options are available.

That long windy road is beautiful when it’s covered with trees in bloom … but not so great if it’s covered in snow and you don’t have a snow plow! What are the routes for the maintenance roads with the city, county and state?

Local bylaws for building codes can vary for land in the Northland of Kansas City. It’s best to check on the options and restrictions with a local expert. Someone who can help navigate the purchase of land whether it’s in a subdivision with an HOA or a large plat of land.

If you are looking to buy land in the Northland and need help determining your options, talk to Ed Rippee. You can hear more about buyer’s experiences on his Zillow account or just give him a call at (816) 777-5056 and find out how Ed can help you buy or sell your home in Kansas City!

Meet Ed Rippee, Experienced Real Estate Agent in Kansas City

1/26/2023













RE/MAX Kansas-Missouri Image
Have you ever met a real estate agent who had over 20 year’s experience and specialized in relocation, short-sale, listing agent and buyer’s agent? No? Then you need to meet Ed Rippee! You can find out more about Ed on Zillow and see how he got a 5.0-star rating!

Ed Rippee is a professional real estate agent in Kansas City who has provided outstanding results for his client. Just look at his track record!

A buyer from Kansas City, MO used Ed to find a single-family home and this is what they said, “I hired Ed as a realtor to sell my house and I am so glad that I did. Ed was recommended to me by a gentleman who did some work on my house and told me that Ed would work hard to get me the best deal he could for me. I called Ed and when he came to my house, I was impressed. He had done his homework and knew a lot about my home. This was very different from the other realtors I had talked to. I decided to hire Ed and hoped I was making the right choice, and I did make the right choice.” Thanks for the kind words Machelj!

Ed enjoys helping people and is very personable, so it only made sense that he became a real estate agent. Zuser20150606171131607 had this to say about their experience with Ed. In the crazy housing market of 2020-2021, Ed Rippee has been a blessing. He was professional and personable. Ed not only cares about getting you into your new home but also that you will love it for a long time and have no regrets. He made sure to guide us with useful insights and knowledge in housing selection and facts. The only bad part about purchasing a house, is we will no longer have an excuse to hang out with Ed every week.”

If you need a good real estate agent, go talk to Ed Rippee. You can hear more about buyer’s experiences on his Zillow account or just give him a call at (816) 777-5056 and find out how Ed can help you buy or sell your home in Kansas City!

What is the Importance of Referrals?

1/12/2023




We love referrals - Ed Rippee.jpegThere are many ways, as a realtor, to gain new business. You can use marketing tools to being an expert in a given area to publicizing your services on social media and other websites. One of the best ways to gain new business is to be referred by a current or past client.

A referral can come from colleagues, friends, family and suppliers; in addition to current and past clients. Almost 40% of sellers will refer their realtor onto friends and family and almost 30% will use a realtor to buy or sell a home that they have previously used.

Clients that come your way by referral tend to take less time and fewer marketing resources to acquire; as compared to mailings, print and digital pieces. Referrals often produce motivated buyers and sellers which can mean an increased likelihood of completing the sale or purchase. Plus, one of the biggest factors is trust.

If a client refers a friend, colleague, or family member, they tend to trust that realtor easier and his/her expertise. Not to mention, referrals are also one of the biggest complements a current or past client can offer!

With the many benefits from referral business, consider doing these:

  • Ask for a referral. Let friends, family, colleagues know that you accept and appreciate all referrals.
  • Stay in touch and continue communicating with past clients.
  • Be social by attending networking events and on social media.
  • Give excellent service and others will recommend you.

Once you receive a referral from someone, be sure to thank them. It can be a warm greeting or a small token of appreciation; just be sure to say thank you and express the appreciation and the trust they have given.

Give Ed Rippee a jingle if you or someone you know is looking to buy or sell a home. He can give you the latest information and help make your home buying or selling, a smooth transition.

Check Your List Twice This Christmas Season

12/24/2022

I Need A Real Estate Agent In Kansas City Ten Tips For Selling A Home During The Holidays.jpegMerry Christmas to you and your family!

If you are buying a home this Christmas season, be sure you are making a list and checking it twice.

  1. Be sure to save for a down payment. This payment is typically 20% of the sale price of the home.
  2. Remember closing costs. Closing costs can include homeowners’ insurance, appraisals, home inspections and about 2-5% of your mortgage.
  3. Determine your budget and how much you can afford by running your numbers.
  4. Choose your mortgage length. Typically, mortgages are 15- or 30- year and depending on which one you choose will offer a different interest rate.
  5. Plan on extra expenses you will likely incur like decorating, furniture, lighting, carpeting and painting can all add up quickly. Or any repairs that may need to be completed.
  6. Choose your neighborhood wisely. Location is key. The neighborhood you choose will need to match your lifestyle.
  7. Get a home inspection before final closing. It will identify any problems with your foundation or roof or mold or pests.

Here is your list to check twice if you are selling this Christmas season:

  1. Boost your curb appeal by maintaining the front yard, driveway, landscaping, porch and adding paint to the door.
  2. Tell everyone you know who will listen. Talk to your neighbors, post it on social media and tell the guy who delivers your Christmas packages! The more people who know, the faster your home will sell.
  3. Prepare for showings and make it easy for people to get around and still enjoy this Christmas season.
  4. Price realistically and stay competitive by finding out what homes in your area are selling for.
  5. Light can make any room show possibility. Make sure all light bulbs are working and on; along with window shades being open.

These are a few of our favorite advices this Christmas season!

Give Ed Rippee a jingle if you or someone you know is looking to buy or sell a home this Christmas season. He can give you the latest information and help make your home buying or selling, a smooth transition.

Wishing you a Merry Christmas and may your holidays be filled with love and good cheer!

 

Is it Smart to Buy a House Right Now in 2022?

12/8/2022

Buying A New Home Now - Ed Rippee.jpegWith the housing prices going lower and the mortgage rates increasing it makes you wonder if now is a good time to buy a house. If you ask today’s home buyers, they are all wondering the same thing. Buy now or wait?

There are signs that the economy is starting to lean more towards a buyer’s market. Inventory is increasing, allowing buyers more options to consider. Plus, some sellers are even lowering their asking price.

So, should home buyers purchase a house right now or wait?

A home is a long-term investment. Even if you look at prices a year from now, home prices may have decreased a little and mortgage rates may go higher. Which makes it a little difficult to decide because it all evens out…pay more for a house now or more in interest later.

If you find a home you are truly in love with and don’t want to wait one more day, then it’s smart to put an offer on the house. Only put in an offer you are truly comfortable with. Worst case scenario, the seller declines the offer and negotiations begin.

Buying a home can be overwhelming at times. Even right now with the economy in a weird place. But even waiting too long to buy a home can present challenges regardless of where the economy stands.

Bottom line, know where your finances land and what you can afford. It never hurts to keep your options open and just look. It helps to have an expert in real estate on your side.

If you have any questions about buying a home or selling a home in the Kansas City area; give Ed Rippee a call. He can give you the latest information and help make your home buying or selling, a smooth transition.

Top Things to Know About Buying a Home in Foreclosure

11/23/2022















Homes in Foreclosure - Ed Rippee.jpeg
Foreclosed homes that have been neglected or abandoned can often come with hidden costs. If you are in the market to buy a home that is foreclosed on, here are 6 things to look for when buying a home in foreclosure.

  1. Find everything you can on the house’s history. Many states require a sellers Disclosure Statement. This statement provides the buyer with historical perspective of the home and its maintenance. What it may not tell you is when the bank foreclosed upon it. This is when a home inspection will help.
  2. Get a home inspection. A home inspection can provide a report on the structure, mechanical problems and any major components of the home or property. This will provide you a better picture of what you are buying and provide a way to prioritize the repairs.
  3. Are the utilities turned on? If the power and water are off to the home, has it been de-winterized? If the power and water have been shut off at the foreclosed home, you’ll want to get a plumber and electrician out to check the pipes and wiring before having it turned on. This includes the water-heater and furnace as well. If these items are left, they could be a fire hazard.
  4. Look for signs of maintenance, or lack of. Have the gutters been cleaned? Is there debris on the roof? Has the bathroom been caulked and sealed? If there are signs that maintenance has been deferred, you may run into costly fixes down the road.
  5. Check the foundation. Look for cracks, leaks or other damage. If you see water damage, this could be a big repair, with big costs.
  6. Resolve any liens. Check with the local municipality to see if there are any liens on the property. They could exist from unpaid contractors, utilities, the city, HOA’s or more.

Buying a home in foreclosure, can be a good investment if you know what to look for. If not, you could end up with a money pit.

If you have any questions about buying a home in foreclosure in the Kansas City area; give Ed Rippee a call. He can give you the latest information and help make your home buying or selling, a smooth transition.

How Real Estate and Finances Mix in KC’s 2022 Market

11/10/2022
Real Estate Market - Ed Rippee.com.jpgThe economy is on everyone’s mind from interest rates to inflation to recession and very little is comforting. And if you are in the rest estate market, it’s on your mind for at least 30-minutes a day, according to a survey by opendoor.
According to the survey, there are three major stress milestones in your life:
  1. Buying a home
  2. Saving for retirement
  3. Saving for a child’s education
Since buying a home is seen as an investment, we understand why this may be stressful. You’ve got the moving, packing and costs/fees; then you have the fear of taking on more debt, the fear of future payments and expenses.
One way to help eliminate stress when dealing with the real estate market is to focus on the things you can control – like getting pre-approved for a mortgage. Plus, getting emotional support from those around you can help the process as well.
After all, buying a home should be exciting!                                                   
Kansas and Missouri have the reputation as having an affordable housing market. The median home value in Kansas City is $230,647. The median home value for the national average is $413,500. Making Kansas City look even more attractive to home buyers. The interest rates for a 30-year-fixed-rate mortgage is (on average) 5.99% and is still affordable.
And if that’s not attractive enough, the low cost of living in Kansas City should be. KC averages 12.1% below the national average.

With these kinds of numbers, the Kansas City real estate market is looking very attractive for buying or selling your home.

If you have any questions about the rea estate market in the Kansas City area, or looking to buy or sell your home; give Ed Rippee a call. He can give you the latest information and help make your home buying or selling, a smooth transition.

What Do You Get With Homes for Sale on Riss Lake?

10/27/2022

Riss Lake - Ed Rippee.jpgRiss Lake is nestled into the small quaint town of Parkville and is one of the premiere communities within it. Homes for sale on Riss Lake are very seldom, because once you enter the community, you’ll never want to leave!

A beautiful 134-acre lake from which the community draws its name, includes a marina with covered boat slips and fishing dock. Species of fish including largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, walleye, rainbow trout, channel catfish, blue catfish, readear sunfish and carp are found in abundance.

While the fishing may be abundant, you’ll have to live here or know someone in order to enjoy the lake. Access to Riss Lake is only open to Resident homeowners and their immediate families and guests.

If you are trying to raise a family this community offers many options and things to do from swimming to sports to nature trails.

The Riss Lake community has three swimming pools, tennis court, sand volleyball, basketball and pickle ball courts, a playground and several nature trails.

There are over 15,000 homes on Riss Lake. And is well known as one of the premier lake communities in the Northern part of the Kansas City Metro.

Homes for sale on Riss Lake will have the amenity of the Parkville Nature Reservation nearby. Other amenities within the Riss Lake community include easy access to major interstates and only 15 minutes away from Kansas City International Airport.

If you are looking for a lake community in the Northland of Kansas City, we can help you find a home for sale on Riss Lake. We can guarantee you, you will not be disappointed.

If you have any questions about homes for sale in Riss Lake or any other community in the Kansas City area, give Ed Rippee a call. He can give you the latest information and help make your home buying or selling, a smooth transition.

Selling Your Home Online Versus Using a Real Estate Professional

10/13/2022

Ed Rippee - Online vs Professional.jpgSelling your home online has its advantages versus hiring a real estate professional. When you sell your home online you avoid any real estate agent fees. Real estate agents tend to charge up to 6% of the sale price for a home.

For example, if you have a $350,000 home and a real estate professional charges you 6%; their fee is $21,000.

Without agent fees, you can potentially reduce the sale price of your home and by doing so, attract more interest; and still save money in the long run.

With more and more people searching for homes online, you’ll reach a larger audience when you sell your home online versus with a real estate professional.

When you use a realtor to sell your home, they can guide you through the process advising you best staging techniques, creating marketing materials with professional photography (and even drone footage).

One of the advantages of using a real estate professional to sell your home versus selling your home online is a real estate agent will handle any open houses or one-on-one home showings. You don’t have to have a potentially awkward conversation with potential buyers and potential buyers will be freer to ask questions about the home and the potential of the home.

A favorite advantage of using a real estate professional is that they will handle all the paperwork and legal processes involved in selling a house. Real estate agents are required by law, to take classes and renew their licenses every couple of years to ensure they are up to date on all the legal processes.

If you have any questions about using a real estate professional in the Kansas City housing market or finding homes for sale or want to purchase a home in the Kansas City, Missouri or Kansas area, give Ed Rippee a call. He can give you the latest information and help make your home buying or selling, a smooth transition.
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