About Mary Hutchison

Every day I'm driving around my cherished neighborhood of Brookside (and Waldo)...observing what's going on, watching new businesses move in and out, and touring homes (I'm a Realtor with Weichert Realtors). Starting this blog about Brookside/Waldo is a way I thought I could promote the area and spark some discussion about what's happening here...and what's going to happen. Your comments are welcome.

EB and Company Opens in Brookside

Posted on September 12, 2019 by Mary Hutchison

We have another new locally owned business to tell you about in this week’s blog…EB and Company, an ‘inspired accessories’ shop now open at 326. W 63^rd St, between Wornall and Brookside Blvd.

Owner Emily Bordner has always had an entrepreneurial spirit—inheriting it from her parents. She had a regular corporate job at Hallmark as a merchandising designer, and started a side business making leather handbags. She expanded into online sales and pop up shops—then decided to open her own retail place here. She chose this location in part because she knows a handful of shop owners who love being in Brookside, and she worked at Bella Napoli while in college. “Brookside has a long tradition of supporting locally owned businesses. It’s really cool to be the new kid on the block, sandwiched between the long term businesses here”.

So..about the store: Emily’s goal is to “own the accessories niche”. She carries several leather bags (made in the Crossroads and featuring domestically sourced leather); earrings, headbands, barrettes, scarves, rings and lip tint from SKIN KC. Prices are very reasonable, ranging from $20 to $180. The styles are current and classic at the same time: tortoise shell, metals, warm and cool colored materials. You may have already seen some of her offerings at Made in KC.

Emily will host the grand opening of her store on September 28, with specials, beverages and a pop up store to be determined. See more about EB and Company at the website or on Instagram @eb.and.co. Hours are Monday through Saturday 10am-6pm and Sunday 12-5. Stop in and browse through EB and Company the next time you are in Brookside!

Littlest Bake Shop–Treats with Big Flavor

Posted on September 5, 2019 by Mary Hutchison

It’s usually those cozy, quiet little food shops that supply the best atmosphere for a short caffeine stop, a shared treat with a friend or a corner to relax and read for a bit. I’m thinking of places like Second Best Coffee, Heirloom, or the Unbakery. And now Brookside and Waldo have another option: The Littlest Bake Shop at 645 E 59th St–a vegan and gluten free bakery.

Owner Iris Green is an experienced baker–she’s published her own cookbooks on Amazon, and recently moved back to KC from Los Angeles with her toddler. She was doing pop ups to sell her cupcakes at this same space (it was Pirate’s Bone) and when that business relocated to the Crossroads, Iris decided to move in. She bakes everything on site, using local and seasonal ingredients. Flavors change depending on what inspires Iris and what is fresh–she usually always has a vanilla and chocolate cupcake and cinnamon rolls, but for something different, she’s offered rose muffins with marzipan filling; blackberry peach cobbler, or whatever Iris can dream up with the seasonal produce she finds. That’s the real treat–trying a flavor you weren’t expecting!

Besides muffins, mini pies and cupcakes, Iris has several beverages for sale: coffee drinks and egg creams. She makes all her flavored syrups from scratch, too. Iris told me she thinks of her store as “vintage concept with with a contemporary flair”. Her shop is small yet inviting: some tables and chairs, a counter with stools, and a shaded patio out the back door!

The shop has limited hours right now (Friday noon-7, Saturday and Sunday 10-3), but that’s part of the fun–drop in on a whim to see what she’s cooking up today! Iris will also take special orders. The Littlest Bake Shop is located at 645 E 59th St–just west of Chai Shai.

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Waldo Home Sales Report-July 2019

Posted on August 29, 2019 by Mary Hutchison

Reading this blog may seem like the Groundhog’s Day movie…same news about Waldo home values increasing, over and over! Let’s take a look at the numbers:

July 2019 July 2018

Median list price: $239,000 Median list price: $215,000

Median sales price: $243,000 Median sales price: $210,000

No. of homes sold: 34 No. of homes sold: 43

Days on market: 3 Days on market: 8

Most of the homes that closed last month sold at or over list price, at a substantial increase over last July. Fewer homes sold, and were available, so that pushes prices up and note–listings went under contract in an average of 3 days! Below are YTD numbers:

Jan-July 2019 Jan-July 2018

Median list price: $225,000 Median list price: $199,800

Median sales price: $225,000 Median sales price: $200,000

No. of homes sold: 198 No. of homes sold: 234

Days on market: 8 Days on market: 16

When there are fewer homes for sale, prices go up–that’s what’s been happening in Waldo. Most sellers continue to get ask or over list price for their homes. So far, Waldo home prices have risen 12.5% this year. Currently there are 29 active listings, with a median price of $235,000 and 41 days on market. Prices range from $45,000 to $399,000.

(All stats taken from Heartland MLS; deemed reliable but not guaranteed.)

Armour Hills Home Sales Report – July 2019

Posted on August 26, 2019 by Mary Hutchison

My neighborhood of Armour Hills continues to be one of the most desirable Brookside neighborhoods–just this year we have two new families just on my block! Home values continue to rise. Let’s take a look at the numbers:

July 2019 July 2018

Median list price: $339,000 Median list price: $349,950

Median sales price: $340,000 Median sales price: $348,450

Number of homes sold: 12 Number of homes sold: 9

Days on market: 12 Days on market: 3

Homes sat on the market for a few days longer, and overall, sold for less than last year…but….the key is year-to-date figures, see below:

Jan-July 2019 Jan-July 2018

Median list price: $339,900 Median list price: $315,000

Median sales price: $340,000 Median sales price: $317,500

No. of homes sold: 55 No. of homes sold: 46

Days on market: 21 Days on market: 4

More homes have sold YTD in Armour Hills, and home values are up 7% compared to last year! Currently there are six homes for sale, with an average list price of $335,000 and 75 days on market.

(All stats taken from Heartland MLS; deemed reliable but not guaranteed.)

Charlie Hooper’s is Back in Business!!

Posted on August 23, 2019 by Mary Hutchison

Charlie Hopper’s Bar and Grille is like Brookside’s Cheers bar…whenever I stop in, there’s usually always someone I know! Back in June, a fire forced Hooper’s to close; now the remodeling is complete and it’s back open for business!

hooopers Although today is the official re-opening day, Hooper’s will have the Grand Reopening celebration all next week, offering specials and giveaways. Watch for specifics online or sign up for their rewards program. Hoopers is one of the few area joints that serves food till 2am –and cooks have a newly renovated kitchen to work in.

Stop in Charlie Hoopers soon and see what they’ve done with the place post-fire. You’ll probably run into someone from the neighborhood! Hooper’s is at 12 W 63rd St, just west of 63rd and Main St. Parking available on street on on the north side of the building. Welcome back!

Brookside Home Sales Report – July 2019

Posted on August 19, 2019 by Mary Hutchison

As we check the numbers for Brookside home sales this year, an interesting fact to note: more homes are selling this year but at lower prices. This seems off, compared to the last few years. Let’s take a closer look at the statistics for single family home sales in Brookside, using the zip code of 64113:

July 2019 July 2018

Median list price: $377,500 Median list price: $420,000

Median sales price: $370,000 Median sales price: $423,500

No. of homes sold: 36 No. of homes sold: 29

Days on market: 20 Days on market: 21

A few more homes sold last month compared to a year ago, for an overall lower price. We did have a $1.7 million sale in July, and seven of the sold homes were over $500K. Here’s year to date numbers:

Jan-July 2019 Jan-July 2018

Median list price: $389,950 Median list price: $409,950

Median sales price: $382,500 Median sales price: $398,000

No. of homes sold: 190 No. of homes sold: 172

Days on market: 24 Days on market: 14

So far this years, prices are about 1.4% lower than same time last year. Homes are taking longer to sell on average–still, going under contract within 30 days is very desirable for sellers. Currently there are 41 active single family homes for sale in Brookside, with a median list price of $420,950 and 57 days on market. The lowest list price is $249,900 and the highest is just under $4,000,000.

(All stats taken from Heartland MLS; deemed reliable but not guaranteed.)

Happy Birthday Brookside!

Posted on August 12, 2019 by Mary Hutchison

Way back in 1919, JC Nichols broke ground on the Brookside Shops at the NE corner of 63rd St and Brookside. Oh, if only we could travel back to that time as observers: just image building a community with no computers; when electricity was still scarce, air conditioners were not common and women wore long dresses with hats every day?? That was the way we were when Brookside got started.

One hundred years later, the Brookside shops and surrounding neighborhoods are still going strong so it’s time to celebrate! Every Saturday and Sunday in August, many merchants are offering special discounts and sales for their customers. It’s a festival of customer appreciation for keeping Brookside such a strong destination for shoppers and diners who appreciate supporting locally owned businesses. Deals include 20% off at The New Dime Store, 25% off the special BKS 100 Year Candle from 5B@ Co and $5 off a $25 purchase at Brookside Toy and Science. (Visit the Brookside website for the complete list of offers).

And if you are in need of yet another tote bag, many shops are offering a commemorative canvas bag for $10, stuffed with additional coupons.

Celebrate Brookside’s 100th birthday with special deals every Saturday and Sunday through Sept 1..and thank you for supporting our locally owned neighborhood businesses!

REMIX-New Consignment Shop in Brookside

Posted on August 7, 2019 by Mary Hutchison

Did you know there is a women’s consignment shop in Brookside?? I didn’t! It’s fairly new, having opened in April. Remix is a welcome addition for female shoppers who appreciate a bargain—and want to ‘recycle’ their stylish clothes.

Catherine O’Sullivan, Remix

Owner Catherine O’Sullivan moved here from Boston ten years ago. She has a background in fundraising, having worked for the KC Symphony and UMKC. But, she says, “I always had the small business bug in me”. She did a lot of shopping in consignment stores in Boston and decided to open her own shop here.

remix interior REMIX focuses on women’s fashion, ranging in sizes 00 through 18. She also sells handbags, shoes, jewelry, jeans and work out clothes. Typically her items are priced at the industry standard of 75% off retail. After 30 days on the rack, the price is knocked down 20%; after 60 days, it’s 30%. She has about 40 regular contributors now, and welcomes more. She’s looking for items that are clean, not damaged or ripped/torn, and especially appreciates unique items. Her store is easy to browse, with jeans and work out gear in a separate area; accessories towards the front; and designated racks of “new arrivals” and special dresses. As we get closer to prom season, Catherine will plan mother/daughter shopping events for STA and Pembrooke.

Catherine explained why she chose Brookside for her shop: “I knew there wasn’t a consignment store here, and I knew after living here for the past 11 years it would be a good location. I really wanted a neighborhood shop”. Business has been good! Remix is open Monday through Friday from 11am-5pm and by appointment. You can also email Catherine with photos of items and she will tell you if she’s interested. And if you find something in her store you like—she will hold it for you. Check out new items via her Instagram account (remixkc).

Remix is located at 3 W 63^rd St, directly south of Charlie Hooper’s.

Outdoor Produce Market Comes to Waldo

Posted on July 31, 2019 by Mary Hutchison

Waldo now has a convenient fresh produce stand….Everyday Produce Market at
76th and Wornall. We are in peak season for fresh fruit and vegetables—and
this stand has just about everything you may be craving this time of
year…and more.
Everyday Produce Market relocated in June to this spot—you may
remember they were several blocks south in the parking lot of the Price
Chopper on 103rd between Wornall and State Line. Owner Konrad Pfeifauf
grew up in the neighborhood and lives in Brookside. He’s been
working this stand every since he was a schoolkid—getting his start when the
former owner, Frank DeLuna, asked him to help out with odd jobs as
Konrad would ride his bike home from school right past the shop (the
original location was at 75th and Wornall.). After graduating from MU,
Konrad bought the stand from Frank (who still checks in daily!) and has
been running it the past 22 years.
Most all of the produce Konrad sells comes from local farmers in Missouri
and Kansas: potatoes, melons, peaches, corn, berries….and the
tomatoes, which he says are “the best in town”. Konrad also stocks fresh,
local free range eggs, locally made honey and fresh salsa from Liberty Food Company. Local wholesalers provide lemon, limes, cherries and other items not grown nearby.
Konrad tells me customers are happy to see his familiar face at this new
location. Everyone is greeted with a big smile, a sample of fruit, and offer of service. Everyday Produce Market is open seven days a week from
8:30-6:30 through the fall—later on you’ll be able to buy pumpkins and
mums here along with the produce. Parking is convenient—right in front of
the stand. It’s best to drive in heading south on Wornall, and you’ll see the
tent on the west side just south of 75th.

produce
Stop in the market in August and take advantage of their special deal: spend
$20 and get 10% off!

Waldo Home Sales Report-June 2019

Posted on July 22, 2019 by Mary Hutchison

Halfway through the year, Waldo home sales are still going strong! Prices continue to rise and most homes are going under contract within a week of listing. Below are the stats, using the street boundaries of Gregory to 85th and State Line to Holmes:

June 2019 June 2018

Median list price: $215,000 Median list price: $194,000

Median sales price: $213,000 Median sales price: $205,000

No. of homes sold: 37 No. of homes sold: 33

Days on market: 7 Days on market: 35

The numbers are showing us that prices are up, and homes sold faster than June 2018. Let’s see where Waldo is year-to-date:

Jan-June 2019 Jan-June 2018

Median list price: $230,000 Median list price: $200,000

Median sales price: $228,000 Median sales price: $200,500

No. of homes sold: 164 No. of homes sold: 182

Days on market: 10 Days on market: 16

The highest sold sales price so far this year in Waldo is $382,000 and the lowest is $26,000–that’s quite a range! YTD, values are up just over 11%

Currently there are 38 single family homes for sale in Waldo, with a median list price of $234,500 and 20 days on market.

(All stats taken from Heartland MLS; deemed reliable but not guaranteed.)

Inside Brookside (And Waldo)

What's Happening In Brookside and Waldo (Kansas City, Missouri)

Author Archives: Mary Hutchison

About Mary Hutchison

EB and Company Opens in Brookside

Littlest Bake Shop–Treats with Big Flavor

Waldo Home Sales Report-July 2019

Armour Hills Home Sales Report – July 2019

Charlie Hooper’s is Back in Business!!

Brookside Home Sales Report – July 2019

Happy Birthday Brookside!

REMIX-New Consignment Shop in Brookside

Outdoor Produce Market Comes to Waldo

Waldo Home Sales Report-June 2019