Buying your first home is exciting! It can also feel overwhelming without the right support. Our latest blog, A Guide for First-Time Homebuyers, breaks down the process into five simple steps to help you feel confident and prepared from start to finish.
Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage
Pre-approval helps you understand your budget and show sellers you're a serious buyer. The Gresham Group connects you with trusted lenders to guide you through the process quickly and confidentially. With mortgage rates at a recent low, it’s an ideal time to get started.
Find a Trusted Real Estate Agent
Choosing the right agent is essential. The Gresham Group specializes in helping first-time buyers navigate the Kansas City market, from finding the right neighborhood to negotiating the best deal and handling the paperwork.
Start House Hunting
With financing and a trusted agent in place, it’s time to search for homes that fit your lifestyle. We’ll help you define your priorities, access listings that match your needs, and schedule showings.
Make an Offer and Negotiate
Once you find the right home, we’ll help you craft a strong offer and guide you through negotiations. The Gresham Group has the experience to advocate on your behalf and ensure you get the best value without overpaying.
Close on Your Home
After your offer is accepted, we manage the closing process, from inspections to paperwork. We’ll work closely with your lender, handle logistics, and be right there with you on closing day to ensure a smooth transition.
Buying your first home is a big milestone, and The Gresham Group is here to guide you through it. With over 25 years of experience and local market expertise, we’ll help you confidently find and secure your dream home in Kansas City.
Don’t miss this must-read blog with a downloadable checklist.
Home Inspections: What Buyers Need to Know
Thorough home inspections are crucial during the home-buying process. By addressing key areas like the roof, plumbing, and foundation, you’ll avoid costly surprises and move forward with confidence in your purchase. These can reveal potential issues and uncover hidden defects. Let’s break them down.
Roof and Gutter Checks
- What to Look For: Check for any visible roof damage like missing shingles, leaks, or sagging. Pay attention to gutters and downspouts, ensuring they are clean and functioning properly to prevent water damage.
- Why It’s Important: Winter weather can cause wear and tear on roofs, especially in colder climates, making spring an ideal time to spot damage before it worsens.
Foundation and Structural Integrity
- What to Look For: Inspect the foundation for cracks, settling, or water damage. Look for signs of structural issues like bowed walls or uneven floors, which can indicate underlying problems with the foundation.
- Why It’s Important: Foundation issues can be extremely costly to repair, so it’s essential to detect any issues early in the process. Spring inspections may reveal problems that weren’t obvious during the winter months.
Plumbing and Water Systems
- What to Look For: Check pipes, faucets, and drains for leaks or signs of corrosion. Pay attention to water pressure and ensure there are no signs of standing water or poor drainage, particularly around the foundation or basement.
- Why It’s Important: Spring rains can exacerbate plumbing issues, leading to water damage and potential mold growth. Ensuring that water systems are functioning properly can save you costly repairs later.
HVAC System
- What to Look For: Have the HVAC system serviced and checked for any issues. Look for signs of old or worn-out parts that may need replacing, such as filters, ductwork, or the unit itself.
- Why It’s Important: An HVAC system is a major component of any home, and if it’s not working efficiently, it can lead to high utility bills. Inspections in the spring can ensure the system is ready to handle the upcoming summer heat.
Pest Control
- What to Look For: Check for signs of pests, such as rodents, termites, or ants. In the spring, insects are more active, so be on the lookout for nests or damage caused by pests.
- Why It’s Important: Pest infestations can cause long-term damage to the property, so a thorough inspection can help prevent expensive treatments or repairs in the future.
Outdoor Areas
- What to Look For: Assess the yard, patio, and outdoor structures for damage. Look for issues like rotting wood, cracked foundations, or signs of poor drainage that could lead to water pooling.
- Why It’s Important: The spring season brings rain, and poor drainage can lead to water buildup, which can damage the home’s exterior or cause flooding in basements or lower levels.
Mold and Mildew
- What to Look For: Check for signs of mold or mildew, especially in damp areas like basements, attics, and bathrooms. Mold can grow quickly with increased humidity in the spring, so it’s critical to spot it early.
- Why It’s Important: Mold remediation can be costly and time-consuming, so addressing mold issues early can save significant repair costs down the road.
Fireplace and Chimney
- What to Look For: Check for creosote buildup, cracked bricks or masonry, damaged chimney caps, and signs of smoke or water damage. Make sure the chimney flue is clear and functioning properly.
- Why It’s Important: A neglected fireplace can pose serious fire hazards. Winter is often the season for heavy fireplace use, so spring is the perfect time to ensure it’s safe for use in the colder months ahead.
Electrical Systems
- What to Look For: Inspect the electrical panel for any outdated or overloaded circuits. Check wiring for any exposed or frayed wires, and verify that outlets are properly grounded. Look for GFCI outlets in wet areas like bathrooms and kitchens.
- Why It’s Important: Electrical issues are one of the leading causes of home fires. Ensuring the system is safe and up to code can prevent potential hazards and costly repairs down the road.
Tips of the Trade
Dust bunnies are all around this time of year! Spring is the perfect time to breathe new life into your home. Helpful expert advice from Chad Johnson at KC Res helps you improve indoor air quality to create a healthier living.
Chad said, “I have seen so many issues over my 12+ years as an inspector and it really comes down to having a professional look at the system to help you find the problems. There are never any guarantees to any of this but I am passionate about making sure that people have the cleanest air possible.”
What are the signs you need a new AC?
The top sign you may need a new AC is poor cooling. If bills spike or cycling seems off, have a professional check refrigerant levels, since performance matters more than age.
What duct maintenance should homeowners be doing?
Keep your AC or heat pump clean by rinsing coils, insulating the copper line, and changing filters regularly. Since pets, cooking, dirt, and air leaks all affect air quality, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Maintenance is key.
What are the benefits of clean, efficient ducts?
Primarily your health! Dirty ducts can hide things like rodents, moldy food, and buildup, so professional cleaning boosts both air quality and efficiency.
How can HVAC cleaning help reduce allergy symptoms?
Maintain your air filter! Additionally, I recommend running the furnace fan 24/7. That is what I do in my own home to continue to filter the indoor air as much as possible. This will cause your filters to get dirtier faster, but that means you are taking the pollutants out of the air.
What are the most common issues you see with systems?
The furnace and humidifier generally create poor air quality if not properly maintained. People spend more time in their homes these days than ever before. You can buy a stand alone air purifier, which I think is great, but you shouldn’t forget the main air supply to the entire house.
What maintenance should homeowners do to keep everything running smoothly?
Clean the coils with a basic garden hose to allow maximum air flow through the coils. Next, make sure the large copper line running from your AC/Heat pump is well insulated. The insulation will degrade over time and needs to be replaced. Lastly, maintain your HVAC filter and change it regularly.
April Home Maintenance
A little TLC for your home is key when new allergens and blooms start making their way into your home.
Schedule pest control treatment
Deep clean blinds
HVAC maintenance prep
Clean refrigerator coils
Vacuum walls and curtains
Clean windows and screens
The Benefits of Spring Selling
Spring is traditionally one of the most favorable seasons for selling a home. Here’s why it’s often the best time to put a property on the market:
Spring offers an ideal opportunity for sellers to capitalize on increased buyer activity, attractive curb appeal, and competitive market conditions, making it the perfect time to list your home for the best results.
- Increased Buyer Activity
- Warmer Weather: As the weather warms up, people are more likely to get out and tour homes. Spring’s bright, sunny days make homes look more inviting and showcase curb appeal, which is key for attracting potential buyers.
- Tax Refunds: Many buyers receive tax refunds in the spring, giving them more disposable income to put toward a down payment.
- Family Relocations: Many families prefer to move during the spring and summer months, particularly to align with school schedules. This makes spring an ideal time for sellers to attract these buyers.
- End of School Year: Families often prefer to settle into a new home before the school year begins, so spring offers the perfect window for those looking to relocate.
- Homes Show Well in Spring
- Curb Appeal: Spring brings flowers, greener lawns, and vibrant outdoor spaces that can make your home stand out. Homes that are well-maintained and look inviting from the outside are more likely to attract interested buyers.
- Natural Light: Longer daylight hours and more natural light help homes look brighter and more welcoming, which can help create a positive first impression.
- Higher Selling Prices
- Supply and Demand: Spring generally brings more buyers into the market, creating competition and potentially driving up home prices. In fact, studies show that homes sold in the spring months often fetch higher prices compared to other seasons.
- Increased Market Activity: The spring market tends to be more competitive for sellers, with buyers eager to lock in their new homes before summer. This competition can lead to faster sales and multiple offers, which may increase the final sale price.
- More Showings and Open Houses
- Sellers can typically expect more showings and open houses in the spring due to increased buyer activity. The warm weather and longer days make it easier for buyers to tour homes at convenient times, including evenings and weekends.
- Better Financial Outlook
- For many homeowners, spring is a time of financial stability. The beginning of a new year means that many people have recovered from holiday spending, making them more financially ready to purchase a home. Additionally, if sellers are looking to buy their next home, spring can provide them with more options to choose from, as more homes are listed during this time.
Home Improvements That Boost Value Before Listing
When preparing to sell your home, strategic upgrades—both inside and out—can significantly boost your home’s appeal and sale price. The good news? Many of these improvements are simple, cost-effective, and deliver high returns.
Here’s a breakdown of the top upgrades to consider:
Curb Appeal is Key
First impressions matter, and a buyer’s experience starts before they even walk through the door. Here are a few high-impact, exterior upgrades:
- Landscaping: Keep the lawn tidy, trim overgrown bushes, and plant fresh flowers to create a welcoming, maintained look.
- Front Door Refresh: A freshly painted front door in a bold, inviting color can add personality and charm to your home’s entryway.
- Power Washing: Clean the exterior walls, walkways, driveway, and patio. Removing dirt and grime can make your home look well cared for and almost brand new.
Interior Upgrades That Make a Big Difference
Simple interior enhancements can go a long way in attracting potential buyers and helping them envision themselves in the space.
- Kitchen Touch-Ups: No need for a full remodel. Minor updates like replacing cabinet hardware, upgrading light fixtures, or updating countertops can modernize the space. Swapping outdated appliances for energy-efficient models adds even more value.
- Bathroom Fixes: Upgrade fixtures, regrout tile, and freshen up caulking around sinks and tubs. These small tweaks can give bathrooms a clean, updated look.
- Fresh Paint: A neutral color palette in soft whites, grays, or beige makes your home feel brighter, bigger, and move-in ready.
- New Lighting: Replace outdated lighting with modern, energy-efficient fixtures. Consider adding recessed lighting in key rooms to improve ambiance and make spaces feel larger.
Flooring Updates That Impress
Worn-out flooring can be a dealbreaker, but this is an area where upgrades really pay off:
- Refinish Hardwood Floors: If your floors are scratched or dull, refinishing can breathe new life into them.
- Replace Old Carpet: Swap out tired carpet for laminate, vinyl, or engineered hardwood—low-maintenance, durable options that appeal to modern buyers.
Home Systems & Energy Efficiency
Buyers want a home that’s not only stylish but also functional and efficient.
- HVAC Maintenance: Service your HVAC system before listing your home. A well-functioning system assures buyers they won’t face unexpected costs right after moving in.
- Energy-Efficient Windows: Upgrading drafty windows improves energy savings and enhances the comfort and value of your home.
Get into the Groove Kansas City
Something about spring and live music just goes hand-in-hand. Here are some hidden gems around the area to vibe to live music:
Libations and Company
For an unforgettable night of live music and expertly crafted cocktails, the 1909 Club at Libations & Company in Lee’s Summit is the place to be. From soulful blues to vibrant jazz, R&B, and funk, their intimate setting offers a unique experience that celebrates Kansas City’s rich musical heritage.
Jerry’s Bait Shop
Jerry’s Bait Shop in Lenexa is a beloved dive bar that delivers live music and cold drinks in a laid-back, island-inspired atmosphere. With live performances four nights a week, including the longest-running Jam Night in Kansas City, it’s a local favorite for music lovers.
The Final Final Club
The Final Final Club in Overland Park offers an upscale, members-only atmosphere where you can enjoy expertly crafted cocktails and live music every Friday and Saturday starting at 8:30 PM. With a focus on showcasing local talent, it’s the perfect spot to discover new artists while savoring delicious drinks in a stylish setting.
Real Estate Advice
I have employees moving to Kansas City. Where do I start?
Relocating to a new area can be overwhelming. Our team understands the intricacies of relocation including finding the right area, expert resources to home buying, access to local preferred vendors and service providers.
- One trusted point of contact from start to finish
- Community insights you can use to find the perfect home
- Step-by-step guide and process resources for home buying
- Access to mortgage and title providers
- Access to local experts and home service provides
Give us a call at 816-348-4817 or send us a message to make the move to Kansas City as seamless as possible!
I’m facing Pre-Forclosure, what can I do?
Have you experienced missed payments, changes in your mortgage, unexpected expenses, or job loss?
You have options!
Here’s how we help:
- • Market Analysis
- No Cost Home Valuation
- Negotiation Expertise
- Stress-free Process
- Short Sale Assistance
- Loan Modification
- Deed in Lieu of Foreclosure
- Lender Partnerships
Our negotiation expertise and lender partnerships ensure a stress-free process while we evaluate all options to find the best solution for you. Let us help you navigate this challenging time and make the most informed decision.
Question of the Month
This month, we asked our realtors for their advice on downsizing. With expert knowledge at your fingertips, our agents want you to enjoy the selling, buying, and home owning process. Here’s what our agents had to say:
Look for something that is on one level and low maintenance.
Paul Gessler
Incorporate smart storage like built-in cabinets, under-bed storage, and vertical shelving to keep smaller spaces organized and clutter-free.
Amanda McIntyre
Prioritize finding homes with ample storage as clients lose basement or multi-level storage.
Leah Beck
Real Estate Market Update
Spring has arrived in Kansas City and so has opportunity.
Rising average sales prices are a clear sign the market is heating up, and with more homes hitting the market, there’s never been a better time to make your move.
Thinking about buying? Your dream home is out there and with more options available, now’s the time to find it.
Ready to sell? This is your moment. With strategic pricing, smart prep, and expert marketing from The Gresham Group, your home will stand out, attract the right buyers, and get sold for top dollar.
Whether you’re buying, selling, or just exploring your options, The Gresham Group is here to guide you every step of the way in Kansas City’s thriving spring market.
Keeping you up to date with the Kansas City Regional Association of REALTORS®.
Spring Swing
Windows down, breeze through your hair, head to Spotify and search The Gresham Group and listen to the new playlist.
Client Testimonials
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Buying and selling a house is an emotional process. Our agents are here to be your trusted advisor and lifelong friend. We’re dedicated to the people of Kansas and Missouri and believe everyone should be able to find home.
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