Armour Hills Jan 2016 Home Sales Report

Hello Armour Hills neighbors…not much to report regarding January 2016 home sales in our subdivision, so this blog will be short!  Here are last month’s home sales for Armour Hills in Brookside:

In January 2016, two homes sold in Armour Hills.  The median list price was $264,475 and the median sales price was $269,155.  Average days on market:  39.

You’ll notice the median sales price was higher than the list price. This is because one of the two homes sold for $12,550 over the list price.  There could have been a bidding war for the property.

In January 2015, four homes sold.  The median list price was $232,277 and the median sales price was $232,000.  Average days on market: 24.

(as a side note, the $400K house listed on W 70th Terr this month was under contract in less than 48 hours)

Currently there are 4 active listings in Armour Hills, with a median price of $237,475 and 89 days on market.

If you are thinking of selling…or buying a home in Armour Hills, contact me for more detailed information on neighborhood sales!

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

Brookside Home Prices Up Over 10% in 2015

Here we go, Brookside neighbors….a recap of 2015 home sales for our area.  The good news? Prices are up.  The bad news? Not much desireable  inventory in the critical $225-325K price range.   I am reporting closed single family home sales for the Brookside zip code of 64113:  

In 2015:

* 342 homes sold.

* The median list price was $337,750; the median sales price was $309,475.

* Average days on market:  39.  

*Seven homes sold for over $1 million. Highest sales price was a $1.8 million home on West Meyer Blvd.    

*53 homes sold for over $500K.

In 2014:

*289 homes sold.

*The median list price was $307,000; median sales price was $295,000.

*Average days on market:  41

*Two homes sold over $1 million.

*42 homes sold for over $500K.

These number show us that prices are going up, and more homes are selling.  The days on market are virtually the same (days on market is how long a home sits before going under contract).  Upper bracket buyers (for homes $500K and up) were more active in 2015 than the previous year. 

Now let’s look at a few more figures to show trending home prices.  Below are the median sales prices for each year and how many units sold:

2013:  $295,000 median sales price; 307 homes sold.

2012:  $277,000 median sales price; 296 homes sold.

2011:  $249,000 median sales price; 210 homes sold.

In 2015, prices increased in Brookside 11% over the previous year.

Since 2011, we’ve seen a 32% increase in prices in our neighborhood!!!  

We continue to have a thriving, desirable location for buyers of all price ranges  here in Brookside. For those sellers who maintain their properties, keep them updated and move in ready–expect to have a quick sale, especially in the $225-$300K price range. Lower priced homes that need a lot of updating and repair also go under contract quickly–they are ‘flipped’ by investors.

Need more detailed information about home sales in your area?  Contact me at mary.hutchison@kansascityhomes.com.

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

Welcome Flatiron Blow Dry Bar to Waldo

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Flatiron District Blow Dry Bar, 7108 Wornall in Waldo

Finally, Waldo and Brookside has its own blow dry bar!  The Flatiron District Blow Dry Bar opened in a few months ago at 7108 Wornall.  I recently stopped by to check out the shop and talk with the owner Jayme Brassell.

Blow dry bars are very popular on the east and west coasts. They are a throwback to the traditional  ‘beauty shop’ in the 1950s and 60s.  Women would come in once a week, get their hair ‘done’ for the week, chat with friends and neighbors and pamper themselves a bit!  The Flatiron Blow Dry Bar has the same goal, but with an updated, more urban vibe. Here you can get a wash, blow dry and style that will last several days says Jayme. No more washing and styling every single day!  The stylists use all organic shampoo and conditioner, and special styling techniques to keep your hair looking and feeling fresh for several days.  The process takes about 45 minutes, and includes a glass of champagne or mimosa (this is a ‘bar’ after all!) and a mini massage.  Waxing and make up services are also available.  Prices vary depending on the hair style and special packages/memberships are available.

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Stylist Karlye Buff, left and shop owner Jayme Brassell, right

Jayme moved to KC in an unusual way…she and her husband were living in New York City and she was pregnant with baby #3. They decided to get out of New York and googled ‘best places to raise a family’.  Kansas City came out on top of that list–so they picked up and moved  here, purchasing a home in old Leawood.  That was five years ago. Jayme’s shop was initially in Overland Park,  but the atmosphere wasn’t quite right.  Waldo fits the neighborhood feel and urban vibe she wanted. The local neighbors are very supportive, business is good and she loves meeting all the eclectic people who wander in. 

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The decor in the shop reflects Jayme’s love of NYC–you’ll see a subway map, Playbill covers, and New York magazines among the shabby chic furnishings. She also offers a few items from Fishs Eddy (her favorite NYC shop) for purchase, and has handmade jewelry and some RenWalla accessories on consignment. .  It’s a very comfortable and friendly atmosphere–you feel relaxed as soon as you walk in!

For an appointment at Flatiron District Blow Dry Bar, you can call or text 913 972 1400 or book directly at  facebook.com/flatironinwaldo.  Hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 10am-6pm, #flatironinwaldo on Instagram.  

Thank you for supporting locally owned businesses in Waldo and Brookside!

Coming Up-KC Restaurant Week 2016

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January…for me, the most boring month of the year! However I do look forward to KC Restaurant Week!  Beginning January 15 through 24, 2016–restaurants all over the metro area are offering special menus for lunch ($15) and dinner ($33) with a portion of the proceeds going to various local charities and foundations.  Reservations fill up fast!!! You can reserve a table directly from the website.

Note that most of the restaurants participating are locally owned and operated. This is the perfect time to try out that new place you’ve heard about..or check out  eateries outside your dining radius.  Below is a list of the Brookside/Waldo restaurants that are offering special menus:

75th St Brewery, 520 W 75th St

Aixois, 251 E 55th St

Avenues Bistro, 338 W 63rd St

Charlie Hooper’s, 12 W 63rd St

District Pour House & Kitchen, 7122 Wornall

Lew’s Grill & Bar, 7539 Wornall

Louie’s Wine Dive, 7100 Wornall

Michael Forbes Bar and Grill, 128 W 63rd St

Summit Bar and Grill, 500 W 75th St

Waldo Pizza, 7433 Broadway

The Well Bar and Rooftop, 7421 Broadway

A portion of the money raised during the ten day event will go to Boys Grow, Children’s Center for the Visually Impaired and Cultivate Kansas City. Many restaurants have already posted their special menus at www.kcrestaurantweek.com; there is also an app you can download.  

Gather up some friends and try a new locally owned restaurant during KC Restaurant Week!

Armour Hills Home Sales Stats – Nov 2015

Good morning neighbors!  Are you in the thick of holiday hoopla?  Just imagine moving during this hectic season!  We had a few homes close last month in Armour Hills, and prices continue to rise.  Here are the details for  single family home sales In Armour Hills in November 2015:

In November 2015, four  homes sold with a median list price of $274,950 and a sales price of $276,000 with 70 days on market.    Interestingly, three of the four homes sold were on East Winthrope.

In November 2014, six  homes sold with a median list price of $264,950 and a median sales price of $259,500 with 67 days on the market.

You will notice that the median sales price was higher than the list price–that is because one of the homes probably had closing costs added to the list price.  The other homes sold very close to list price.

Checking year-to-date figures:

From January through November 2015, 73 homes have sold with a median list and sales price of $265,000 with 34 days on market.

From January through November 2014, 61 homes sold with a median list and sales price of $239,950 and sales price of $239,950 with 31 days on market.

It is unusual to have the list and sales price be the same figure.  However, buyers are paying top dollar to move into Armour Hills..when the property is priced correctly.

So far this year median sales prices are up over 10% compared to 2014 for Armour Hills.  Next month I will have the usual December figures as well as a year to date comparison for the past few years.  Currently there are 5 homes for sale, with a median list price of $249,500 and 88 days on market.

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

Brookside Home Sales Report – September 2015

royalRoyals mania continues in our metropolis — must see TV has cut into my work and blogging time!  It’s all worth it though to again experience the excitement of the playoffs.  Have you noticed–so many more homes in the area displaying Royals support paraphernalia!  Okay, down to business….here are the single family home sales for last month in the Brookside zip code of 64113:

In September 2015, 22 homes sold.  The median list price was $375,000 and the median sales price was $362,500.  Average days on market: 34. Two homes sold over the $500K mark.  The lowest sales price was $224,500 and the highest was $650K.

In September 2014, 32 homes sold.  The median list price was $302,000 and the median sales price was $289,975.  Average days on  market: 45. The lowest sales price was $164,950 and the highest was $2.727 million.

Fewer homes sold this September than last, however days on  market are fewer and median sales price is up–a consistent trend this year.

Checking year to date figures:

From January through September 2015, 268 homes sold with a median list price of $326,777 and a median sales price of $325,000 with 38 days on market.   

From January through September 2014, 219 homes sold. The median list price was $320,000 and median sales price was $306,000 and 37 days on market.

More homes are selling in Brookside this year, and sellers are getting very close to list price.  The last three months of the year are usually slower for home sales…we’ll see how much of a drop off we experience or if closed sales will outpace last year.

Currently there are 58 single family homes for sale in the Brookside zip code of 64113, with a median list price of $539,950 and 68 days on market.  Fourteen homes are priced over $1million–so if that is  your price range, there is a lot to chose from!

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

Meyer Fest This Weekend in Brookside – Oct 9-10, 2015

Meyer festThe most beautiful season in Kansas City? Many people would say Autumn because of the warm days, cool nights and brilliant fall colors on the trees. And one of the most welcoming, friendly communities in Brookside is St Peter’s Parish. Fall and festivals go together, so this weekend you are invited to the St. Peter’s Meyer Fest, now in it’s second year. In the past, the church held a parish “fiesta” on the school grounds geared towards parishioners and school families. Meyer Fest is an expanded street party and carnival , welcome to anyone in the area who wants to join in the fun!

Here’s a brief schedule of events:

Friday October 9, 2015

6pm-10pm– Tailgate and Chili Cook-Off at KC Bier Co, 310 W. 79th St in Waldo

Saturday October 10, 2015

9am-3pm — Carnival at St Peter’s, 815 E Meyer, with games, crafts and activities for kids.

10:30am and noon —  Performances from the Starlight Theater STARS of Tomorrow.

1:00pm  — Battle of the Bands!

6pm-10:30pm  —  Live music from The Bryan Hicks Quartet, The Rainmakers and Boogie Wonderland, plus dancing and food trucks.

Ticket prices range from $5-$20, depending on activity and can be purchased online with NO additional fees! Proceeds from Meyer Fest benefit the St Peter’s Food Pantry and their sister parish in El Salvador.

Volunteers are needed, so if you want to get involved, visit the website for details. Thanks, St. Peter’s, for hosting another community event for Brookside/Waldo neighbors!

Brookside Home Sales — August 2015 Report

This blog may give you a feeling of deja vu.. once again I am reporting strong home sales for Brookside in August 2015…as I have been all year.  Prices are up, inventory is down, and many homes are selling within days of being listed.  Here are the single family home sales for last month in the Brookside zip code of 64113:

In August 2015, 30 homes sold.  The median list price was $382,000 and the median sales price was $363,750.  Average days on market: 27. Twelve homes sold over the $400K mark.

In August 2014, 23 homes sold.  The median list price was $375,000 and the median sales price was $357,000.  Average days on  market: 53.

The lowest sale price last month was $142,500 and the highest was $1,257,500 for a Sunset Hills home on W. 56th St. Note the days on market were fewer –this August it was less than 30 days before a house was under contract on average.       

Checking year to date figures:

From January through August  2015, 246 homes sold with a median list and sales price of $325,000 and 38 days on market.   

From January through August 2014, 187 homes sold. The median list price was $320,000 and median sales price was $311,000 and 36 days on market.

Currently there are 57 single family homes for sale in the Brookside zip code of 64113, with a median list price of $539,900 and 80 days on market.  The lowest listing is priced at $199,500 and the highest is just under $4 million. Over half the homes (40) are priced over $500,000, which ramps up the median listing price.

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

Rare Four Bedroom Home For Sale in Brookside!

613 E 66th St For Sale in Brookside

613 E 66th St For Sale in Brookside

Here we are, in the middle of the very busy Spring home selling/buying season in Brookside!  There are many, many buyers looking for homes….and a lack of inventory, especially in the $200-$225K price range.  So my  listing in Armour Hills Gardens should sell quickly!

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Second floor family room–rare for this area, and at this price!

This is a true four bedroom home, which is hard to find in this price range.  The home features a Cape Cod floorplan, with two bedrooms and a full bath on the first floor, and two bedrooms and a full bath on the second floor.  Also on the second floor–a large family room, perfect for TV viewing or gaming!

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Natural light streams into the updated kitchen

The kitchen features newer cabinets, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances and a long row of windows overlooking the backyard area–lots of natural light here!  Just outside the kitchen is a dining room area, which also leads into a spacious screened in porch.  That is my favorite area of the home–it’s so relaxing to sit here, read a book, chat with friends or enjoy a meal protected from pesky flies and bugs!.

Relax here after a long day at the office!

Relax here after a long day at the office!

You’ll find hardwood floors on the first floor, except for the kitchen (tile floor), and freshly cleaned carpet on the second floor.  There is also an attached garage, full walk out basement and large fenced yard in back.

Living room with built-ins and fireplace

Living room with built-ins and fireplace

Located in popular Armour Hills Gardens, this is a great location and so convenient…just west of Holmes, and close to St Peter’s Church/School, Brookside shops and services, Metro bus stop and Highway 71 is within a mile.  Contact me for a private showing, or click my website for more pictures.  613 E 66th St, offered at $214,000.  A lot of space for the price!

New Rotary Club Started for Brookside/Waldo Area Residents

Would you like to get more involved with your Brookside/Waldo neighbors? Are you thinking it’s time to meet some new friends and network with other professionals? Then you may be interested in finding out more about the new Waldo-Brookside Rotary Club.

Dan Ryan (an Armour Hills resident) was a member of the KC Plaza Rotary Club. The Plaza group had been discussing the concept of starting another club, so Dan and several other members started on the paperwork and recruitment. They decided a Rotary Club with an early evening meeting time and no meal expense could bring the Rotary experience to a broader group of people.   Thus, the Waldo-Brookside Rotary Club was born.

angieAngie Gutierrez is the chapter President, and we recently met at the Roasterie so she could pass along details of the group and it’s purpose. Rotary club objectives include “the ideal of service in each Rotarian’s personal, business, and community life” and “the development of acquaintance as an opportunity for service”.

As the members of the Waldo-Brookside group network with each other and get a feel for their club’s ‘personality’, they will create plans to give back to the community where they live and meet.  Although this new club is still working out what specific ways they will  help our neighborhood, it could include a theme project like “schools” — which would mean promoting scholarships, cleaning up school grounds, funding needed school materials, etc. Each Rotary chapter decides for itself the community services it will provide.

The requirements for membership are simple: professional adults (this group tends to fall between the ages of 25-50), dues (currently $50 per quarter), and regular attendance at the weekly meetings.   This Waldo/Brookside Rotary Chapter meets each Wednesday at 5:30pm at The Well in Waldo for one hour…Angie is very conscious of keeping the meetings on track and on time! The usual agenda will include discussing projects and often feature a guest speaker. Everyone is welcome to stay and socialize after the business meeting if they like, as Angie describes their meetings as a ‘happy hour type of club”.

You probably know someone who is involved with the Rotary organization. If you are interested, contact Angie at angiemgutierrez@gmail.com. Or, you can just stop by one of the Wednesday night meetings to get a feel for the group—everyone is welcome!