If you’re thinking about moving to Kansas City and looking to buy a house, where do you even start? I’m Rachel the Realtor, and I’m here to give you the scoop on all things Kansas City. This article is just for you: Five things you need to know about buying a house in KC.
Price Variations by Location
The first thing you need to know about buying in Kansas City is that prices vary dramatically by location. This means you could buy a house in one place, and then purchase the same house 10 miles in another direction, and the price would be dramatically different. This price variation could be due to school districts, local perceptions of the area, or various other reasons.
For instance, Jackson County on the Missouri side, which houses Kansas City, Missouri, and many of its suburbs, saw 167 homes priced between $600,000 and $800,000 sold in December of 2022. In contrast, Johnson County on the Kansas side, home to popular suburbs like Leewood, Overland Park, and Prairie Village, almost doubled that number with 303 sales.
However, you can still find homes in the Kansas City metro for under $200,000, though they’re becoming rare. The aim here isn’t to deter potential buyers but to highlight the varying price ranges across the city.
State Line Choices Matter
The side of the state line you choose can significantly impact your experience in Kansas City. Interestingly, it becomes part of your identity, making you either a Kansan or a Missourian. Each side has its passionate supporters, but beyond local pride, there are practical reasons to consider, mainly financial. Your chosen location will impact home costs, and taxes differ between the two states. On average, taxes are slightly higher in Kansas than in Missouri. If you opt to live in Missouri, remember there’s a 1% income tax to consider.
Diverse Lifestyles
Kansas City offers a range of lifestyles to fit any preference. Whether you’re seeking an urban feel downtown, the peacefulness of the suburbs, or rural country life, the city has something for everyone. Depending on your budget, some parts of the metro area even qualify for USDA loans, which can ease the buying process for many.
Expect to Drive
You will drive a lot in Kansas City. Although some areas, primarily in KCMO, offer walkability and even a streetcar, most residents find themselves behind the wheel regularly. The metro area is vast, and drives from one extreme end to the other can exceed an hour. Moreover, the public transportation system isn’t extensive. Therefore, if you’re not a fan of driving, it’s crucial to strategize where you purchase your home.
Weather Considerations
Kansas City’s Midwest weather can impact various aspects of homeownership. One unexpected concern is leaves. Many large trees drop leaves from September to January, meaning potential clean-up chores for homeowners. The weather can also affect home foundations, roofs, and driveways. Also, given the region’s susceptibility to tornadoes, considering a home with a basement or safe area might be a wise choice.
In Conclusion
When considering a home purchase in Kansas City, remember:
- Prices can vary dramatically by location.
- The side of the state line you choose can have implications.
- The city caters to a variety of lifestyles.
- You’ll likely be driving quite a bit.
- The Midwest weather can influence your homeownership experience.
Ready to make the move? Contact Rach to set up a time to chat about the next steps!
Rach Kilmer
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Learn about Putting Down Roots in Kansas City on a May airing of House Hunters on HGTV.