PEOPLE October 2, 2023

Agent Spotlight: David Driskill

When it comes to real estate, experience is invaluable, and having a Kansas City real estate agent who truly understands the industry can make all the difference. Today, we introduce you to David Driskill, one of our esteemed real estate agents out of our Northland office. Keep reading to get to know David better!

 

Are you a Kansas City Native?  

No, I’m not a Kansas City native. I grew up in Richmond, Missouri.

 

How long have you been with Kansas City Homes? 

I’ve been a part of the Kansas City Homes family since April 2018.

 

How long have you been in the real estate industry?  

My journey in the real estate industry began when I purchased my first property in 1974, and by 1978, I had obtained my broker’s license. 

 

Tell us about any special talents or skills you have:  

I don’t think I’m the one to answer this question. I can only say that I know & understand the real estate business. I have owned income-producing properties over the years, I’ve done commercial leasing,  property management & residential sales. But, here again, you would have to talk to others & let them tell you if I have any “special talents.”

 

Have you won any awards?  

Yes, I have earned awards during my real estate career.

 

What is something people at work don’t know about you? 

I play the piano for the worship services at Linden Baptist Church in Gladstone, Missouri.

 

What is one tip you’d give new agents? 

For new agents, my advice is straightforward: make the calls, make the calls, and make the calls. 

 

Do you have any nicknames?  

People call me “Dubl D.”

 

What is your favorite thing about KCH?  

What I appreciate most about Kansas City Homes is how my broker, Joanna Williams, is available for any kind of assistance I may need

 

Do you have any kids? A spouse? Pets? Tell us about them!  

My two daughters are grown and independent and I’ve been married to my wife, Marcy, for over 48 years.

 

What’s your favorite hidden gem in KC?  

My favorite hidden gem in Kansas City is the “Scout” statue, a unique and iconic symbol of our city.

 

What’s your favorite KC restaurant?  

When it comes to dining, Stroud’s is my favorite KC restaurant.

 

What’s your favorite KC neighborhood? 

I’ve called Staley Farms home since 2008, and it holds a special place in my heart.

 

Are you involved in the community? Tell us about something you’re passionate about.  

I’m actively engaged at Linden Baptist Church in Gladstone, Missouri. Additionally, I serve as one of three members of the Clay County Board of Equalization.

 

Tell us about any of your hobbies: 

Golf is my one true passion when it comes to hobbies. I’ve shot my age a couple of times and I’m proud of that feat.

 

What’s something you think makes you stand out?  

I believe that question is best answered by others rather than myself. I prefer not to brag about myself. I hope you can appreciate this. 

Yes, I may have some traits that I think are honorable. But when a person is really exceptional and really honorable, other people will spread the word. 

As for me, I just want to be a good guy.

 

David Driskill is not just a seasoned real estate professional; he’s a dedicated member of the community with a heart for great service. If you’re seeking a real estate partner with years of experience, a commitment to excellence, and a passion for making a difference, David is the agent to connect with. Reach out to him at ddriskill@kansascityhomes.com, call him at (816) 536-4613, or visit his website: https://ddriskill.kansascityhomes.com.  Your real estate journey is in capable hands!

 

Check out other Kansas City Homes real estate agent spotlights here: https://kansascityhomes.com/better-living-blog-3/people

 

 

PEOPLE September 25, 2023

Agent Spotlight: Trevor Walker

In the realm of real estate, having an agent who not only understands the market but also possesses the unique ability to connect with people can make all the difference. Today, we introduce you to Trevor Walker, one of our dedicated real estate agents at our Mission Farms office. Let’s delve into a Q&A session to get to know Trevor better.

 

Are you a Kansas City Native? 

Yes, I am proud to call myself a Kansas City native.

 

How long have you been with Kansas City Homes?  

I’ve been with Kansas City Homes for over a year now, and I’m excited to continue this journey.

 

How long have you been in the real estate industry? 

My journey in the real estate industry began in 2020.

 

Tell us about any special talents or skills you have:  

My special talent lies in my amazing ability to connect with anyone. Building relationships and rapport with people is something I love to do.

 

What is something people at work don’t know about you? 

Behind the scenes, my life has been a remarkable journey. I faced homelessness as a child and was thrown into the foster care system at the age of 11. I aged out of the system at 18. Despite these challenges, I was determined to succeed. I attended Kansas State University with a full-ride scholarship, where I majored in Science in Geography and earned a certificate in Geographic Information Systems. My life experiences have shaped my determination and resilience.

 

What is one tip you’d give new agents? 

For new agents, my advice is to make yourself available to help seasoned agents. By doing so, you will learn a wealth of knowledge from those who have been in the field longer.

 

What is your favorite thing about KCH? 

What I love most about Kansas City Homes is the atmosphere that the agents create.

 

Tell us about your family!  

I have a 7-year-old cat named Arlow.

 

What’s your favorite hidden gem in KC?  

My favorite hidden gem in Kansas City is Taco Tuesday from 3:30 – 6:30 at McCormick and Schmick’s.

 

What’s your favorite KC restaurant?  

I can’t resist F325 BBQ in North KC.

 

What’s your favorite KC neighborhood?  

The Power and Light District has a vibrant atmosphere.

 

Are you involved in the community? Tell us about something you’re passionate about. 

I’m actively involved with Operation Breakthrough and enjoy sand volleyball on a regular basis. I also enjoy visiting animal shelters and spending time with the bigger, scared dogs that often find comfort in human interaction. My hope is that these interactions will lead to their adoption into loving homes.

 

Tell us about any of your hobbies:  

I love to spend my spare time traveling, enjoying food with friends and family, and pursuing adventure wherever I can find it.

 

What’s something you think makes you stand out?* 

I firmly believe in helping anyone in need. My compassionate nature and willingness to lend a helping hand set me apart, both in my personal life and in my career as a real estate agent.

 

Trevor Walker isn’t just your average real estate agent; he’s a symbol of determination and resilience, with a heart full of compassion for people and animals alike. If you’re looking for a real estate partner who combines a strong work ethic with a genuine passion for helping others, Trevor is the agent you’ve been searching for. 

 

Learn more about Trevor: https://twalker.kansascityhomes.com/ 

See other Agent Spotlights here: https://kansascityhomes.com/better-living-blog-3/tips-copy

PEOPLE September 18, 2023

Agent Spotlight: Kati Lawrence

Choosing the right real estate agent can make all the difference when buying or selling your home. Today, we introduce you to Kati Lawrence, one of our dedicated real estate agents here at Kansas City Homes. Let’s dive into our Q&A session to get to know Kati better.

 

Are you a Kansas City Native?

Yes, I am proud to call Kansas City my hometown. However, if we’re digging deeper into my roots, I actually hail from Excelsior Springs, which is not far from KC.

 

How long have you been with Kansas City Homes?

My journey with Kansas City Homes began in January 2023, and I’m excited to be part of this fantastic team.

 

How long have you been in the real estate industry?

I started my real estate journey in January 2023, making me a relatively new but enthusiastic addition to the industry.

 

Tell us about any special talents or skills you have:

I am a mom of two under two – now that’s a skill! Additionally, I run a t-shirt shop, showcasing my creative side.

 

What is something people at work don’t know about you?

I used to be a teacher for five years, shaping young minds before venturing into real estate. My family is quite blended, totaling six siblings, and I married my high school sweetheart, Trey. We live in the very same house he grew up in with our two boys.

 

I also had quite the journey as a kid, moving a total of 13 times before reaching sixth grade.

 

What is one tip you’d give new agents?

For new agents, my advice is to find a good mentor and be willing to put in the work. Don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it!

 

Do you have any nicknames?

Kati Bug is one of my nicknames!

 

What is your favorite thing about KCH?

What I love most about Kansas City Homes is the exceptional training and support they provide. There are abundant opportunities for continuous growth and learning here. Apart from that, the atmosphere is incredibly supportive, with coworkers and employees genuinely wanting to see everyone succeed.

 

Tell us about your family!

My family is my world. I have two little ones, Tate and Tripp, who are just 2 and 2 months old. My husband Trey and I have been together for a decade, with three years of marriage. Trey works as a safety manager at Lake City and is an active member of the Missouri National Guard. We also have a furry family member, Lucy, a red heeler.

 

What’s your favorite hidden gem in KC?

When it comes to hidden gems in Kansas City, I love Martin City Pizza.

 

What’s your favorite KC restaurant?

I have to stick with Martin City Pizza here too – it’s the best.

 

What’s your favorite KC neighborhood?

Waldo is my favorite KC neighborhood!

 

Tell us about any of your hobbies:

I enjoy reading and listening to audiobooks, especially when life gets busy. Exercise is another passion of mine – the babies and I go for daily walks, and I try to work out a few times a week. My family and I love spending time outdoors and even have a garden in the spring and summer. We’re avid Chiefs fans and enjoy watching games with friends on Sundays.

 

What’s something you think makes you stand out?

My personality sets me apart. I’m an overachiever and always strive to go above and beyond for people. I’m very social and can strike up a conversation with anyone, making it easy to connect with people in the real estate world and beyond.

 

Kati Lawrence is not just your average real estate agent; she’s a dedicated professional with a passion for her clients and a zest for life. If you’re looking for a real estate agent who brings enthusiasm, a strong work ethic, and a friendly personality to the table, Kati is your go-to choice. Get in touch with her at katilawrence@kansascityhomes.com or give her a call at (816) 868-1920. Your real estate journey just got a whole lot better!

 

You can also learn more about Kati on her website: https://katilawrence.kansascityhomes.com/ 

Find out more about one of our other real estate agents, Jamie Closson, at: https://kansascityhomes.com/2023/09/12/agent-spotlight-jamie-closson

Uncategorized September 12, 2023

Agent Spotlight: Jamie Closson

When it comes to finding the perfect real estate agent, it’s not just about their knowledge of the market and properties. It’s also about their background, experiences, and the unique qualities they bring to the table. In this blog post, we introduce you to one of our dedicated real estate agents, Jamie Closson, who hails from the heart of Kansas City. Let’s get to know her better!

How long have you been with Kansas City Homes?

I started my journey with Prudential in January 2009, which later evolved into Kansas City Homes.

 

How long have you been in the real estate industry?

I’ve been a part of the real estate industry since January 2002.

 

Tell us about any special talents or skills you have:

I have a unique talent for trimming boxwood bushes into formal sculptures. You could say I’m as good as Edward Scissorhands in that department! My daughter’s input revealed that I excel at organizing, baking, decorating, and planning. I even create Google docs to plan and organize all our family outings, including our beloved summer and Christmas traditions.

 

Have you won any awards?

I’m proud to have received Silver, Gold, and Platinum Awards from BHG Kansas City Homes.

 

What is something people at work don’t know about you?

Here’s a fun fact: I’ve been married to the same man since I was 19 years old. We first met eons ago at MU on Halloween when he picked up me and my roommate in his two-seater convertible car. What a sight! We were in costumes, and I sat on my roommate’s lap. Ten months later, we were married, and we still have that cute little TR3.

My claim to fame extends to being a distant cousin of the legendary Mickey Mantle. Before I became Jamie Closson, I was Jamie Mantle. I also have an immense love for all animals; I honestly can’t think of any I don’t like.

 

What is one tip you’d give new agents?

For new agents, my advice is simple: think positive, keep plugging away, and the business will come to you. Remember that if your feelings get hurt, it’s a common experience for every agent. Don’t engage in negativity; take the high road and move forward. In their minds, it’s all business.

 

Do you have any nicknames?

I go by various nicknames, including Jamers, Mrs. C, Momma Cita, and simply “J.”

 

What is your favorite thing about KCH?

One of my favorite aspects of KCH is their commitment to helping agents improve their skill sets with training and new technologies. Additionally, I adore the friendly, fun, and helpful agents and staff that make this a great place to work.

 

Do you have any kids? A spouse? Pets? Tell us about them!

My life is enriched by my wonderful husband, two amazing grown daughters, and a precious 16-year-old Shih-Poo named Ellie (short for Eloise). I consider all of them to be my best friends!

 

What’s your favorite hidden gem in KC?

While these may not be located directly in KC, I love Vivilore, a charming restaurant and shop in Independence. I also enjoy spending a day biking on the Katy Trail, starting at Meriwether Cafe and Bike Shop.

 

What’s your favorite KC restaurant?

My top pick for a dining experience in KC would be The Antler Room.

 

What’s your favorite KC neighborhood?

My favorite neighborhood in KC is Rockhill, and I’m proud to call it mine.

 

Are you involved in the community? Tell us about something you’re passionate about.

I have a passion for all things old, whether it’s historic houses, buildings, or objects. I’m actively involved in my neighborhood, which is in a historic district, and I am also involved in the Historic Kansas City Foundation. Moreover, I’m an active member of Visitation Catholic Church, and I serve as a reading mentor for Lead to Read, where I spend one-on-one time with a student during the lunch hour, reading and mentoring.

 

Tell us about any of your hobbies:

I find solace in gardening and working out at the Bar Method. In fact, I’m about to reach my 2,000th class milestone! You’d think I’d resemble one of my instructors, Karen, by now! I also enjoy taking long walks while listening to books.

 

What’s something you think makes you stand out?

When I asked my daughter for suggestions, she mentioned that I have good communication skills and excel at working with different types of people. Additionally, she described me as creative and strong.

 

Is there anything else you’d like to share about yourself?

I often chuckle to myself when people assume that being a real estate agent means I must love looking at houses all the time. The truth is, that’s not my favorite part, but what I do love is helping people achieve their real estate goals. It’s a tremendous responsibility and an honor to be part of such a big event in people’s lives. I see it as a team effort, and I’m just part of it!

 

To contact Jamie, visit her website: https://jamieclosson.kansascityhomes.com/ 

KC September 8, 2023

Safeguard Your Clients’ Budgets against Surprise Breakdown Costs

Janell Enderson Guest Blog 

These days, it is essential to protect your clients’ budgets against surprise repair and replacement costs for their home’s systems and appliances. Can your clients comfortably afford to replace a broken appliance or HVAC system? Check out how much homeowners frequently pay for repairs and replacements without home warranty coverage: 

The unexpected and surprise breakdown costs can be expensive, but the right home warranty could save homeowners hundreds—even thousands— of dollars. That’s why it’s so important to offer your clients the best home warranty coverage available. 

Here are just a few reasons why you can count on Old Republic Home Protection to provide the industry-leading home warranty services your clients deserve: 

  1. People Helping People. We take care of our customer’s needs and paid 94 % of our service requests in 2022!
  2. Proud Heritage. We have been protecting homeowners nationwide since 1974 and we look forward to serving your communities for decades to come!
  3. Solid Reputation. In addition to our strong ratings on Google and Trustpilot, we have maintained an A+ rating with the BBB for over 20 consecutive years.
  4. Plans for Every Home and Every Budget. We offer four different plans—plus Optional Coverage—so customers can tailor their warranty to the unique needs of their home.
  5. Seller’s Coverage is available only in conjunction with the purchase of Homebuyer’s Coverage and provides essential protection for covered home systems and appliances during the listing and closing period.
  6. We have two U.S.-based Call Centers. Our customer service agents are always ready to help your clients. Plan holders can also submit service requests online anytime, day or night. 

Your clients deserve the most comprehensive coverage available and I have every confidence in our product. Contact me today to find the best plan for your clients! 

   Janell Enderson | Senior Account Executive

T: 800.282.7131 Ext. 1291 | C: 913.219.4245 

JanellE@orhp.com 

Old Republic Home Protection | Old Republic Insurance Group 

P.O. Box 5017, San Ramon, CA 94583 

Janell’s Page | Place an Application | www.orhp.com 

Terms and conditions apply. See your state plan for complete coverage details, including service fees, limitations, and exclusions. 

©2023 Old Republic Home Protection, Inc., a subsidiary of Old Republic International Corporation. 

 

Find more information on mistakes to avoid and home-buying tips in our articles 6 Overlooked Things When Buying a Home and 5 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Buying a Home.

TIPS September 8, 2023

Embrace the Cozy: Prep Your Home for Fall

As the summer warmth gives way to the crispness of fall, it’s time to usher in a new season of coziness and comfort. Preparing your home for the fall not only creates a warm and inviting atmosphere but also ensures that your living space is ready for the upcoming changes in weather. From décor updates to essential maintenance tasks, here’s a comprehensive guide to help you transform your home into a cozy haven for the autumn season.

1. Declutter and Organize

Before you dive into the realm of fall décor and cozy accents, start by decluttering your living spaces. Go through your belongings and consider donating or storing items you won’t need during the colder months. Organize your closets, shelves, and storage areas to make space for seasonal items and prevent clutter from accumulating as you spend more time indoors.

2. Warm and Inviting Entryway

Your entryway sets the tone for your home’s ambiance. Embrace the fall spirit by placing a welcoming doormat and a colorful wreath on your front door. A rustic wooden bench or a table with a vase of dried flowers can add a touch of charm and warmth to your entryway. Consider adding hooks or a coat rack for easy storage of coats, scarves, and hats.

3. Cozy Textiles and Layered Comfort

As the temperatures drop, it’s time to layer up your home with cozy textiles. Swap out lightweight summer linens for plush throws, knit blankets, and soft cushions in warm autumn hues. Incorporate textures like faux fur, cable knit, and velvet to create an inviting and tactile environment that invites you to curl up with a cup of hot cocoa.

4. Fall-inspired Decorations

Give your home an autumnal makeover with seasonal decorations that capture the essence of fall. Arrange bowls of decorative gourds, pumpkins, and pinecones on your coffee table or mantel. Drape garlands of colorful leaves or fairy lights over your fireplace for a warm and magical touch. Consider replacing your summer floral arrangements with dried flowers or arrangements of autumn blooms. Also, a kitchen is never complete for fall until you’ve cooked some autumn-inspired recipes.

5. Mood Lighting

As the days grow shorter, lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood. Incorporate warm and soft lighting options, such as table lamps, floor lamps, and string lights, to create a cozy atmosphere. Opt for dimmable lights to adjust the ambiance according to your preferences, and consider using scented candles to infuse your home with the scents of fall, like pumpkin spice or apple cinnamon. For the outdoors, find recommendations for fire pits on the Better Homes and Gardens website.

6. Pre-Winter Maintenance

Before the colder weather arrives, it’s essential to tackle some pre-winter maintenance tasks. Inspect your home’s heating system and replace filters if necessary. Seal any gaps or cracks in windows and doors to prevent drafts and conserve energy. Clean your gutters to ensure proper drainage during rainy fall months. These tasks will not only make your home more comfortable but also help you save on energy bills.

As the leaves start to change and a cozy chill fills the air, preparing your home for the fall season becomes an exciting endeavor. Embrace the opportunity to infuse your living space with warmth, comfort, and the delightful aesthetic of autumn. By decluttering, introducing cozy textiles, and adding seasonal decorations, you’ll create an inviting haven that welcomes you to enjoy the beauty and tranquility of the fall months in the comfort of your own home.

If you want recommendations on where to go in Kansas City during the fall, check out our 5 Midwest Day Trips blog article.

 

KC August 4, 2023

Pennway Point: Industrial District into Entertainment Destination

A new entertainment district, Pennway Point, is set to revitalize an industrial district near Union Station, offering an array of recreational attractions for families and visitors. Spearheaded by developer Vince Bryant, the project has recently gained critical approval, securing access to essential parking spaces that will be crucial to the success of the development. With its unique utilization of space beneath bridges, Pennway Point aims to create a one-of-a-kind entertainment experience.

“The Pennway Point development would transform a stagnant industrial district into a new downtown destination.”
Vince Bryant, Developer

Pennway Point: A Vision for Entertainment

1. 170-foot Ferris Wheel: A centerpiece of the district, the Ferris wheel will stand tall at 170 feet, offering year-round entertainment with heated and cooled gondolas. This attraction will be operated by Icon Experiences, a separate firm collaborating on the project. Icon Experiences also plans to include an outdoor miniature golf course within the development.

2. LUMI Neon Museum: Nick Vedros is pursuing the creation of the LUMI neon indoor and outdoor museum, adding a touch of vibrant artistry to the Pennway Point concept.

3. Tailgate Park: Embracing the spirit of fun and games, Pennway Point will feature a “tailgate park” equipped with various yard games, providing a lively atmosphere for visitors.

4. Carter Waters Building Redevelopment: The historic Carter Waters building, which has stood for a century, will undergo transformation into a mixed-use space. This renovation may include a restaurant, a rooftop indoor/outdoor patio, and other facilities that contribute to the dynamic character of Pennway Point.

5. Future Phases: As the project progresses, additional elements will be introduced, such as a new 28,000 square-foot building with residential units and first-floor retail spaces. The plans also include a brewery, tasting room, covered beer garden, and a renovated brick depot building featuring a “burger joint,” lounge areas, a live music stage, and billiards.

Located adjacent to the massive IRS Processing Center and in close proximity to other notable attractions like Union Station, Crown Center, the Federal Reserve Bank money museum, and the World War I Museum and Memorial, Pennway Point has the potential to enhance the already thriving family entertainment scene in the area. By reimagining the industrial site and preserving existing structures, the project aims to breathe new life into the neighborhood, creating a unique and family-friendly experience.

“Best utilization of areas under bridges that you can’t develop or build on.”
Vince Bryant, Developer

While the Westside Neighborhood Association voiced concerns regarding parking availability and the impact on the community, the Plan Commission unanimously endorsed the street vacation request. Bryant assured the commission that the development adhered to existing zoning regulations and emphasized that the final development plan, as well as individual projects within Pennway Point, would be subject to further review.

Pennway Point represents an exciting new chapter in downtown entertainment, promising to transform a once-industrial district into a vibrant destination for families and visitors. Through innovative use of space beneath bridges, the project maximizes the potential of previously neglected areas, providing valuable parking spaces for the development. With a Ferris wheel, a neon museum, recreational spaces, and the preservation of historic structures, Pennway Point aims to deliver a unique entertainment experience while enhancing the surrounding area’s family-friendly appeal. As the project moves forward, stakeholders are excited to witness the realization of this visionary endeavor. To learn more about Kansas City, visit our article 7 Fun Facts About Kansas City to see what this city already has to offer!

 

See more at FlatLandKC

KC July 31, 2023

Christian Barnes featured in NAR Power Broker Roundtable Discussion: Balancing Tech and Relationships

In the rapidly evolving landscape of the real estate industry, the integration of technology has become a game-changer. As AI and virtual platforms gain prominence, the question arises: how crucial is human connection in this tech-driven era? How do we grow in the world of balancing tech and relationships? A panel of experts recently convened to discuss the impact of newer business models and whether traditional relationships can coexist with virtual success.

 

Moderated by Kymber Lovett-Menkiti, a prominent figure in the real estate industry, the panel featured industry leaders Christian Barnes, Drayton Saunders, Leo Pareja, and Rick Haase. The conversation revolved around the role of technology, the importance of human connection, and the potential for hybrid business models.

 

Christian Barnes, President/CEO of Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate, Kansas City Homes, emphasized the importance of tech-enablement for agents’ success. However, she emphasized that real estate has always thrived on relationships, and nurturing a connection-based company culture remains a top priority.

 

Drayton Saunders, President of Michael Saunders & Company, acknowledged the pandemic’s acceleration of technology adoption. Yet, he noted that post-pandemic, people showed a strong desire to return to the office, embracing the value of in-person interactions with colleagues and clients, again balancing tech and relationships.

 

Leo Pareja, Chief Strategy Officer of eXp Realty, spoke in favor of the virtual model, highlighting the advantages of attracting talent without geographical limitations. Despite being cloud-based, eXp Realty provides ample collaboration opportunities, blending the benefits of virtual and in-person support.

 

Rick Haase, President/CEO of United Real Estate, emphasized their hybrid approach, combining the best features of both traditional and virtual models. United Real Estate’s goal is to provide more value to agents and clients while retaining the significance of brick-and-mortar offices.

 

When questioned about the potential for hybrid business models, the panel agreed that they hold a promising place in the industry, but that the real estate business is anchored in relationships. Each company had found success through its unique strategy, but they acknowledged the necessity of continuous adaptation to suit agents’ needs.

 

In conclusion, the experts acknowledged the power of technology but asserted that the real estate business remains deeply rooted in human connections. While the virtual world opens up new possibilities, it cannot replace the value of in-person interactions with clients and colleagues. Ultimately, successful brokers in this fast-paced world must strike a delicate balance between embracing technology and nurturing personal relationships. As the real estate industry continues to evolve, the need to innovate while preserving the human touch remains the question of the day.

 

See the original article, “Tech versus Traditional: The Challenge to Real Estate Philosophy,” here. 

KC June 8, 2023

Kansas City PrideFest

Friday, June 9th – Sunday, June 11th
Pride Parade: Saturday, June 10th at 11:00 am
 

Inclusion is one of our biggest values here at Kansas City Homes! Kansas City PrideFest is an LGBTQ+ festival featuring a main stage with local acts, national recording artists, vendors, food trucks, family activities, and more. The festival will take place from Friday, June 9th through Sunday, June 11th at Theis Park. All ages are welcome. Sunday is focused on family-friendly entertainment and activities.

We’re excited to be participating in the Pride Parade for the third year in a row! We are firm believers in fair housing and housing for all.

ROUTE
The route starts at the corner of Westport Road and Broadway Boulevard. The parade will feature community groups, floats, performers, and pageant winners processing down Broadway as it becomes Mill Creek Parkway. The parade will then turn east on 47th Street and end at Theis Park.
 
JOIN US
Don’t forget to join us in Westport at 11am on Saturday, June 10th, to join in on the action!
 
FOR MORE INFO
Click HERE to go to the KC Pride Alliance website to find out more information!
 
DONATIONS
This year we’re supporting PFLAG Kansas City. The donations we collect will help to provide literature in order to help people start conversations as well as help PFLAG to put on community events and provide scholarships to students who may not have support. Collections will go through June 17th CLICK HERE.
 
REMINDERS
Wear comfortable shoes. Stay hydrated. Restrooms are available at businesses on the route. KSHB will be live-streaming the parade and it will be available to watch later.

We can’t wait to see you at the 2023 Kansas City PrideFest!

TIPS June 5, 2023

Maximizing Opportunities: Starting Real Estate Part-Time

Are you captivated by the dynamic world of real estate but find yourself unable to fully commit due to existing responsibilities or a demanding career? The allure of entering the world of property transactions and investment opportunities may be stronger than ever. However, the idea of diving in headfirst might seem overwhelming or impractical. That’s where the concept of becoming a part-time real estate agent shines.

 

Whether you’re seeking to supplement your income, pursue a passion, or simply explore a new avenue without abandoning your current obligations, the world of real estate holds tremendous potential.

 

5 Pros of Pursuing Real Estate Part-Time:

 

  1. Flexibility: Not working full-time allows you to maintain a flexible schedule and balance real estate activities with other commitments.

 

  1. Income Supplement: Real estate can provide an additional source of income without completely relying on your primary job.

 

  1. Learning Opportunity: Starting part-time allows you to gain experience in the real estate industry and determine if it’s a career path you want to pursue further.

 

  1. Networking Opportunities: Engaging in real estate part-time enables you to network with professionals in the industry and build relationships for future career growth.

 

  1. Lower Risk: Starting part-time reduces the financial risk associated with transitioning to real estate full-time and allows you to gradually build your business.

 

3 Cons of Pursuing Real Estate Part-Time:

 

  1. Slower Business Growth: Starting part-time may result in slower business growth compared to full-time agents due to limited time and resources.

 

  1. Competitive Disadvantage: Full-time agents may have more time and resources to dedicate to clients and marketing efforts, giving them a competitive advantage.

 

  1. Inconsistent Income: Income in real estate can be unpredictable, especially when working part-time, making it challenging to achieve a stable and consistent income stream.

 

Of course, real estate agents who work part-time must meet the same requirements as those working full-time. Some examples of what that would include:

 

  • Meeting state licensing requirements (possibly for both Missouri and Kansas)
  • Finding a sponsoring brokerage (look no further!)
  • Receiving a state-issued license and completing continuing education to keep an active license

 

A part-time real estate career is a good option for those work on shifts, parents with children in school, and teachers. Many of these members of the community have good connections along with that extra time at some point during the year.

 

We would recommend thinking ahead before making the leap. Consider how you will generate leads, your plans on marketing yourself, and how you can time-manage like a pro. If you have a plan in mind, you could secure that extra income without having to work full-time hours. For details about the market in Kansas City or more inspiration for becoming a real estate agent, take a good look around our Kansas City Homes website.