We Will Exceed Your Expectations!
THE MULLER
TEAM • More than 47 years experience • Licensed in both Kansas and Missouri • Expertise of properties in all price ranges • Top team of Reece & Nichols Town Center Office 2003, 2004, 2008 & 2009 • Award for Excellence 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008 & 2009 From left to right: Linda McGuinn, Charlene Muller and Shawn Muller
Have you decided to move to a new home? THE MULLER TEAM will make selling your current home and finding your new home stress free. 1 1 5 0 0 G r a n a d a • L eawood, KS 66211
913.266.5426 Cell: 816.536.9302 Web: www.MullerTeam.com Email: CharleneMuller@ReeceAndNichols.com
I
MITATION IS THE HIGHEST FORM OF FLATTERY…
WE ARE OFTEN FLATTERED!
NEW HOME CONSTRUCTION
|
H I S T O R I C R E S T O R AT I O N
|
REMODELING
Waterford Construction Company LLC 26
YEARS OF EXPERIENCE
913.432.7123 | 913.205.5255 | broberts5@kc.rr.com |
www.waterfordconstructionkc.com
I N
K A N S A S
C I T Y
Publisher
K E ITH SAU RO Editor-in-Chief
AN DR EA DAR R Associate Editor
B ROOK E PEARL Editorial Intern
MAGG I E FRI E D Contributing Writers
G LOR IA GALE TAM MY WORTH Photographers
PAU L BON N IC H S E N MATT KOCOU R E K JAM E S MAI DHOF JOE OG I LVI E Art Director
DAR I N B E N SON Associate Art Director
CAROL CAN N I NG Director of Custom Publishing
R E N E E DE MOTT Senior Account Executives
CAN DY COPPAK E N LAU R E POTTE R MAR LA WE STR U P Lake Ozarks Account Executive
H E R MAN PAG E Grand Lake Account Executive
MARTY FOLLI S Special Projects
LOR I C H R I STI E Assistant to Publisher & Circulation Manager
TE R E SA MAYB E R RY Senior Vice President, Operations: STUART C H R I STIAN Director of Publishing Operations: R IC K H IGG I N S Production Director: C H E RYL JOC K Production Manager: S HAN NON MC K E LVEY H
O M E
D
E S I G N
D
I V I S I O N
President: ADAM JAPKO
PROUD MEMBER OF
L EAWOOD C HAMBER OF C OMMERCE
Chairman/CEO: DA N I E L M C C A RT H Y CFO: G E R RY PA R K E R General Counsel: S U SA N D E E S E
12 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY
ADVERTISING INFORMATION: Looking to reach
“ F
e
a
t
h
e
r
Y
o
u
r
N
e
s
t ”
the new or future residents of Kansas City with your advertising message? Learn more about how costeffective advertising in Relocating in Kansas City can be. Call 913/648-5757 and we will be happy to explain to you the many benefits of advertising in a highly targeted, supreme-quality print publication such as Relocating in Kansas City. No time to talk? Simply write to us at 4121 W. 83rd St., Ste. 110, Prairie
Village, KS 66208.
C
2011 copyright by
Network Communications Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. Relocating in Kansas City is published annually by Network Communications Inc. and printed by R.R Donnelley. Volume 18.
NEED ADDITIONAL COPIES of Kansas City’s No. 1 source for making the move for your business or organization? Relocating in Kansas City is the ideal medium. Call 913/648-5757 ext. 10, fax 913/648-5783 or email at tmayberry@kc-hg.com and, depending upon the time of request, we’ll accommodate your needs ... or write to Teresa Mayberry, circulation
11272 S. RIDGEVIEW JUST
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O L AT H E , K S
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ON
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manager, Relocating in Kansas City, 4121 W. 83rd St., Ste. 110, Prairie Village, KS 66208. T UES ., W ED ., F RI ., S AT. 10-5
HOW TO REACH US For advertising and subscription information:
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Unique “ Featherings” for your Home and Garden
913.648.5757 By Fax: 913.648.5783 Publisher: ksauro@kc-hg.com Editorial: adarr@kc-hg.com Circulation: tmayberry@kc-hg.com Art Department: dbenson@kc-hg.com Advertising: rdemott@kc-hg.com Mailing & Physical Address: 4121 W. 83rd St., Ste. 110, Prairie Village, KS 66208
ON THE COVER: Welcome Home! Kick back and relax at Falcon Valley Photography by James Maidhof
2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY • 13
I N
28
K A N S A S
C I T Y
64
76
C O N T E N T S
22
88
96
16
A Kansas City State of Mind
42
Growing Cities
76
Going for the Greens
18
Numbers You Need
46
The Best Established Neighborhoods
80
Retail Therapy
20
Kansas City Metro Area Map
50
Your New Home Community Guide
82
Hospital Hunting
22
10 Places to Go in Kansas City
56
Maintenance-Provided Communities
84
Alternative Health Care
24
Community Spotlight: Falcon Valley
58
Lofts, Condos and Urban Living
88
Moving Your Pets
26
Making the Move
60
Your Kansas City Rental Guide
90
Money Matters
28
The State(s) of Business
64
Back to School
92
Home Advantage
30
Finding a New Job
66
Good School Guide
96
Building Your Dream Home
34
Stretching Your Dollar
74
Finding the Right Day Care
100
Redesigning Your Style
38
The Counties of Kansas City
14 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY
E d i t o r ’s M e s s a g e | K A N S A S
By Andrea Darr
C I T Y
Photo courtesy of Wallstreet Towers
I N
How one of the last places you thought you’d live will become the first place you’ll never want to leave. ’ve often heard of Kansas and Missouri (and the Midwest in
I
an easy-to-navigate airport, myriad housing options, top schools,
general) as the “fly-over” states. As in, there’s nothing worth
exceptional dining establishments, fabulous shopping, and beautiful
stopping for in between the east and west coasts, so keep the
parks and boulevards.
relocators are in for a pleasant surprise.
Unfortunately, we are one of the fatter cities in America; we have a
plane going. Having lived in Kansas City my whole life, I think
I’m not saying our rosy city doesn’t have a thorn or two.
At the heart of this great country, the people make the place. Some
largely underused public transportation system (we love the freedom
of the most famous faces hailing from our borders include President
of our cars!); we’re ranked No. 1 among the 100 largest metropolitan
Harry Truman, actress Ginger Rogers and golfer Tom Watson, to
areas for airborne pollen and mold spores; and we’re not exactly
name a few.
trendsetters. Things happen on the coasts and eventually make their way inward to us.
“I think once you spend a little time here, you’ll feel at home. Welcome to Kansas City!”
But being in the middle of America doesn’t mean that we are in the middle of nowhere. Location is one of KC’s best attributes. In fact, we are poised to have the best access to anywhere in the world: one hour to Chicago, three hours to Houston, four hours to New York, four hours to L.A., and from these places, anywhere. One of my favorite quotes comes to mind: “A man can travel the world over and find what he was looking for at home.” No matter how grand a time I might have when traveling, my thoughts wander their
We are famous for our barbecue, jazz, friendliness and staunch support of our football team, the Chiefs. We have miles of uncrowded highways __ more than enough for our short commutes — 16 • 2011 RELOCATING TO KANSAS CITY
way back here. Kansas City just feels like home. I think once you spend a little time here, you’ll feel that way, too. Welcome to Kansas City __ make yourself at home!
I N
K A N S A S
C I T Y
Numbers You Need electric
trash/recycling
MANY PARTS OF THE METRO AREA
GREATER KANSAS CITY AREA
Black Hills Energy: 888/890-5554 or
Allied Waste: 816/254-1470 or
high-speed Internet/ digital phone/cable and satellite services (continued)
www.blackhillsenergy.com
www.kc.disposal.com
PARTS OF CASS COUNTY, MO
Kansas City Power & Light: 816/471-5275 or
Deffenbaugh Industries: 913/631-3300 or
Galaxy Cablevision: 800/365-6988 or
www.kcpl.com
www.deffenbaughindustries.com
www.galaxycable.com
Westar Energy: 800/383-1183 or
Hickman Disposal Service: 913/831-2072 or
KCNet: 816/221-4658 or www.kcnet.com
www.westarenergy.com
www.hickmandisposal.com
People PC: 866/772-6277 or www.peoplepc.com
KANSAS CITY, KS
post office
WESTERN WYANDOTTE COUNTY
Board of Public Utilities: 913/573-9000 or
KANSAS CITY METRO AREA
AND DOUGLAS COUNTY, KS
www.bpu.com
800/275-8777 or www.usps.gov
Sunflower Broadband: 800/869-1214 or
INDEPENDENCE
high-speed Internet/ digital phone/cable and satellite services
KANSAS CITY METRO
WYANDOTTE COUNTY AND PARTS OF
877/722-3755 (DSL) or www.att.com
www.sunflowerbroadband.com Independence Power & Light: 816/325-7930 or www.ci.independence.mo.us/pl
AT&T: 800/331-0500 (phone)
PLATTE & CLAY COUNTIES
METRO KANSAS; IN MISSOURI PARTS OF
Platte-Clay Electric Cooperative: 816/628-3121
CLAY, CASS AND BATES COUNTIES
KANSAS CITY METRO AND
or www.pcec.coop
Charter Communications: 888/438-2427 or
LEAVENWORTH, KS
www.charter.com
Time Warner: 816/358-8833, 913/682-2113 or
gas
www.timewarnercable.com
KANSAS CITY, KS AND PORTIONS OF
INDEPENDENCE, PARTS OF CASS,
JOHNSON COUNTY
JACKSON AND LAFAYETTE COUNTIES IN
JOHNSON AND WYANDOTTE COUNTIES
Atmos Energy: 888/286-6700 or
MISSOURI, AND OLATHE, KS
IN KANSAS, AND SOUTH AND
www.atmosenergy.com
Comcast: 816/795-1100, 800/266-2278 or
EASTERN MISSOURI METRO
www.comcast.com
Vonage: 800/980-1455 or www.vonage.com
Kansas Gas Service: 800/794-4780 or
KANSAS CITY METRO
water
www.kgas.com
CenturyLink: 877/290-5458 or
KANSAS CITY, KS
www.centurylink.com
Board of Public Utilities: 913/573-9000 or
PARTS OF THE METRO
DirecTV: 888/777-2454 or www.directv.com
www.bpu.com
United Cities Gas Co.: 866/298-1514
Dish Network: 800/823-4929 or
or www.connectutilities.com
www.dishnetwork.com
KANSAS CITY, MO
Black Hills Energy: 888/890-5554 or
Earthlink: 800/327-8454 or www.earthlink.net
KCMO Water Services Department: 816/513-1313
www.blackhillsenergy.com
SureWest: 913/825-2882 or
or www.kcmo.org/water
Atmos Energy: 888/286-6700 or
www.surewest.com
JOHNSON COUNTY
www.atmosenergy.com
PORTIONS OF JOHNSON COUNTY Water District #1 of Johnson County:
KANSAS CITY, MO Missouri Gas Energy: 816/756-5252 or www.missourigasenergy.com Atmos Energy: 888/286-6700 or www.atmosenergy.com 18 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY
913/895-1800 or www.waterone.org
Lake Quivira
I N
K A N S A S
C I T Y
Liberty Memorial
Liberty Memorial Originally dedicated on November 11, 1926, the restored museum and tower were rededicated and reopened on May 25, 2002, followed by two more expansions. A secondphase addition included a 230-seat auditorium and an education center beneath the memorial. The final phase was a 30,000-square-foot museum expansion below the tower. Recognized by Congress as our country’s only WWI monument, the Liberty Memorial has the largest and most comprehensive collection of World War I artifacts, relics and
Photo by Alistair Tutton
archival materials in the world.
Power & Light District
10 Places to Go in Kansas City On both sides of the state line, the metro offers a multitude of cultural and entertainment options. Power & Light District
Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts The internationally known design team of Moshe Safdie & Associates, Theatre Projects Consultants and Nagata Acoustics will provide the backdrop for performances by local arts organizations when this stunning building opens fall 2011. Patrons will enjoy a 1,800-seat proscenium theater designed for touring Broadway shows, concerts and comedians, as well as the Kansas City Ballet and the Lyric Opera.
The vibrant eight-block district is a
Kansas City Wizards Soccer Stadium
primary revitalizing force for downtown
The Wizards’ new soccer stadium, slated to
Kansas City Symphony and performances
Kansas City, Mo. Think broad streets, open
open summer 2011 in Kansas City, Kan.,
by other mid-size musical organizations.
storefronts, boutique retailers, a generous
will be the first soccer stadium in North
Along with the center’s approximate
helping of restaurants, a gourmet grocery
America to combine attributes of European
285,000 square feet, a 1,000-space parking
store and an outdoor performance area.
and South American soccer stadia with
garage also will become part of the complex.
A 1,600-seat concert hall will host the
The project features more than half a
modern amenities that American fans love.
million square feet of hip and unique retail,
It joins the Kansas Speedway and the
restaurants and entertainment. One block of
Community America Ballpark at Village
The Bloch Building at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
the district features Kansas City Live!,
West for sports fans.
Acclaimed architect Steven Holl’s glass
which is designed for music and festivals. 22 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY
lenses are the competition-winning addition
collaborated to design the 18,500-seat Sprint Center, opened fall 2007. Ellerbe Becket, Populous (formerly HOK), 360 Architecture and Rafael Architects Inc. — collectively known as the Downtown Arena Design Team (DADT) — designed the glass structure to reflect the downtown skyline. The cornerstone of downtown’s revitalization, the Sprint Center hosts basketball, hockey, concerts, family shows and special events.
to the original neoclassical Nelson-Atkins
exhibition space, the museum offers arts
College Basketball Experience and National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame
building. Composed of five interconnected
education opportunities for both children
As part of the $276 million Sprint Center,
structures as opposed to a single massive
and adults.
the College Basketball Experience and
The Bloch Building at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
expansion, the design might be Holl’s
National Collegiate Basketball Hall of
greatest professional achievement. Opened
Schlitterbahn Vacation Village
Fame celebrate the history of men’s
June 2007, the addition offers new spaces
The popular Texas-based water parks
collegiate basketball. It honors coaches,
and angles unparalleled by almost any other
opened in Kansas in 2009. The newest
players and contributors who have made
structure in the Midwest. Though a style
addition to the chain continues construction
an impact on the game. A museum and
departure from the existing structure, the
on additional phases on a 370-acre track
interactive adventure alike, visitors are
Bloch Building — named in honor of
near Village West in Kansas City, Kan. The
able to work with hands-on exhibits and
longtime benefactor and museum trustee,
water park’s first phase includes tubing
experience basketball like never before.
Henry Bloch, and his wife, Marion —
slides, chutes, rivers, beaches and other
complements renovations to the original
unique features like the Storm Blaster,
Independence Events Center
museum building, picturesque lawn and
Loopy Luge mat slide and Henry’s Hideout.
Home of the Missouri Mavericks hockey
sculpture park.
Future phases will include more water rides,
team, the center opened in November 2009
River Walk attractions, and shopping, dining
as a 5,800-seat, multipurpose arena hosting
Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art
and lodging venues.
approximately 100 events a year, including
Designed by Cambridge, Mass.-based
Sprint Center
events, concerts and community events.
architect Kyu Sung Woo, the Nerman
Kansas City is a major hub of sports
There’s also a community ice rink within
Museum opened spring 2007 on the Johnson
architecture firms, and four of them
the center.
trade shows, festivals, professional sporting
County Community College campus in Overland Park. Supported by and named in honor of local art collectors Jerome and Margaret Nerman, the 36,000-square-foot Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art is a departure from the college’s mostly brick façade. The Nerman family donated $1.5 million to help establish the glass and limestone addition, which adjoins the new Regnier Center for Technology and Business, designed by local firm Gould Evans Architects. In addition to providing
Schlitterbahn Vacation Village
2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY • 23
A
D
V
E
R
T
O
R
I
A
L
Custom Building Without the High Price
R
elocators will find that Kansas City’s housing prices are already some of the most reasonable in the country. Topping that, custom build jobs at communities like the Falcon
Properties can give you exactly what you want for less than you would expect. Want to backup to a golf course? No problem. Looking for a walkout lot that backs to a forest or lake? They’ve got plenty of both. Need enough space for the kids to play and for you to get away and relax? Welcome home! The Falcon Properties, marketed by Reece and Nichols, are a collection of upscale communities around the metro that feature high-quality homes that are reasonably priced in neighborhoods complete with pools, golf courses, clubhouses and more. Developer Kaivan Ferzandi says most homes in the Falcon neighborhoods start in the lower $300,000s and include popular
Falcon Valley
amenities like granite countertops, wrought iron spindles, hardwood
Falcon Valley continuously garners great press for its award-wining
floors and three-car garages. But, as Ferzandi adds, “We don’t have
golf course. In the February 2010 issue of Golf World, it was named
‘standard features.’ It’s about how far you want to go to personalize
14th out of the “25 Best 9-Hole Courses in America.” The championship
the home.”
course is only one of many amenities the community provides its
To get started finding your new dream home, read on to find out about a few of the Falcon Properties.
residents as well as a beautiful clubhouse, sport court, pool and two lakes. Additionally, the neighborhood children attend top-rated schools: Manchester Park, Prairie Trail Junior High and Olathe Northwest. Falcon Valley is located in an area of booming development as locals decide to move outside the city limits but maintain close access to several major highway arteries; K-10, I-435, I-35 and I-69 are literally just minutes away. “Area residents have commented how glad they are that they’ve chosen Falcon Valley for their home and how convenient it is to get around the area,” notes Christyne Doherty, the onsite agent. Homes range in price from the upper $300,000s to the upper $600,000s and will contain 320 homes when complete. There are prime home sites available, both golf course and interior, starting in the $60,000s to the mid $100,000s. Buyers are free to choose a builder of their liking. Call 913/780-9004 for more information.
24 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY
Falcon Village For buyers who want to downsize space but not downgrade amenities, Falcon Village may be the perfect solution. Inside the attached twin villas, buyers will find the best materials seen in luxury homes, such as crown molding, iron spindles and granite countertops. “We’ve found that people still want the high-end materials they’re used to, and they’re really surprised at the quality they see here,” says onsite agent Ken McDaniel. Moreover, because neighbors share a wall, the builder poured an extra-wide foundation wall to ensure quiet; R-38 insulation in the attic is another extra step the builder took to lower utility bills.
Falcon Lakes, Falcon Lakes Villas and The Fairways at Falcon Lakes Falcon Lakes is a showplace of natural beauty embracing rolling terrain, wooded retreats and a 54-acre lake. Homes starting in the low $300,000s surround the 18-hole championship golf course, designed by Carter Morrish of Morrish and Associates. Amenities include tennis and basketball courts and a large swimming pool. Many highquality home builders are available, or buyers may use their own with the approval of the developer. The community’s builders are ready and willing to be flexible with materials and floor plan layout, resulting in a variety of styles — and price points. Walk-out lots and golf course lots start in the $60,000s, and golf course and lake lots peak in the $90,000s. “One of the great things about Falcon Lakes is the opportunity to All the work of lawn care, snow-removal and exterior painting is left
build at any price point,” says onsite agent April Jackson. “With such
to the maintenance crews. A shopping area within walking distance
diversity in price, Falcon Lakes is an opportunity for almost any buyer.”
includes an eye doctor, dentist, bank, veterinary clinic, dry cleaners,
Falcon Lakes Villas is a maintenance-provided community, which
liquor store, fitness center, tanning salon, grocery store and pharmacy.
includes lawn care and snow removal, with homes starting in the low
Located between fairways seven and eight of the Falcon Valley
$300,000s and up. The Fairways are built on golf course, walk-out
Golf Course, residents still have the beautiful views of the greens and
and treed lots and feature a variety of floor plans from the low
optional use of the pool for a nominal annual fee. Outdoor enthusiasts
$300,000s. According to Jackson, it’s an excellent price point in a golf
also will appreciate the City of Lenexa’s extensive biking trail that
course community.
runs nearby.
In addition to the luxury of home, residents enjoy the luxury of
Floor plans include reverse 1.5-story and ranch homes. Prices
seclusion. Falcon Lakes is located in Basehor, Kan., just 4.5 miles
range from the mid $200,000s to $300,000s. For more information,
north of I-70 along K-7 at Hollingsworth Road on the west side of
call 913/780-9699.
K-7. Call 913/724-5400 for details. 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY • 25
K A N S A S
C I T Y
Making the Move A transfer has made Kansas City your new home. Here’s how to ease the transition.
R
elocating might not crack the Top 10 all-time stressors, but it
He also highly recommends hiring a company with an established
should. Uprooting your family presents difficulties in every
record of good service. Word of mouth carries a lot of business in
facet of your life, from switching schools and communities
the moving industry, so ask your friends and associates who they’ve
to making new friends and business networks.
had good experiences with. Brewer warns against going through
“Some people are thrilled to be moving to a new place while others
brokers because they generally don’t own the trucks and equipment
just can’t stand it,” says Garold Brewer, sales manager for Berger Allied
and will hand off your move to various companies, with no one taking
Moving Company in Kansas City.
responsibility for your belongings. Bad deals can include low-ball
It’s certainly an adjustment, but the strain can be eased with a positive experience. That starts with your move.
estimates that double by the end of the deal or even theft. Claims with these companies often go nowhere.
The first thing to know is that it’s best to hire a company in the city
“Big-name moving companies have a lot invested in trucks and
to which you are moving. That company will select a qualified moving
equipment,” Brewer says. “We do our best to protect our reputation
coordinator who will be able to help you resolve any problems that
and give the customer the best service we can.”
arise, such as contesting an item on your bill or submitting a claim for broken china, and deal with them at the local level.
Ask the companies you call if they are brokers. Or better yet, look up reputable movers on the American Moving and Storage Association’s website, www.moving.org.
Finding a Mover Horror stories about shady movers abound, but the serious players in
Getting It Booked & Moved
the moving industry have tried hard to clear their names. You could
Most reputable companies offer free estimates. “They need to get a
start with the phone book and look at the ads, but that’s just the first
visual survey of what items are moving, if there’s any packing, or any
step. “Call the Better Business Bureau to make sure they’re reputable,
special needs like crating,” Brewer says. A local rep will conduct this
and check in both cities, where you’re coming from and where you’re
interview and work up a price quote.
going,” Brewer says. 26 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY
If you hire the moving company to pack your belongings, that will
©iStockphoto/Nathan Gleave
I N
usually take place the day before the move. Some luxury homes could take a week, especially if there are grand pianos or marble statues going. The average house won’t fill up an entire truck, so moving companies might double up with belongings from another family moving in the same direction. To prevent confusion in this case, every piece on the truck is inventoried and stickered, and crews will give you a copy to check off at your final destination. Notify your driver if you have something particularly valuable. Brewer explains that this means items that you can generally hold in your hands that are expensive, such as a porcelain doll that weighs only 5 pounds but costs $10,000. You might want to take items like that and family heirlooms or jewelry with you instead. Do not move household poisons like Raid, combustible items that could explode in hot weather, candles that could melt, liquids like laundry detergent that could leak on your leather sofa or even water, which could harm your computer. Damages from improper or illegal packing on your part will result in an unpaid claim. One of the best ways to stay organized is to prepare for your immediate needs. Designate a box for necessities, such as paper plates, a child’s favorite toy and toothbrushes. This definitely includes important paperwork and keys to your new house. Mark the box clearly and point it out to the movers so that it is the last box on the truck and the first one off.
Eco-Friendly Moving Tip Recycling just one ton of cardboard boxes saves 17 trees, 7,000 gallons of water and a twin-bed-sized spot in a landfill. Reduce your impact by reusing boxes then returning them from Best Price Boxes. The service sells discounted moving boxes, which can be used several times before recycling. And save again when you sell the boxes back. 913/549-4823 or www.bestpriceboxes.com
2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY • 27
K A N S A S
C I T Y
The State(s)of Business
K
ansas City has plenty to offer
“And our economy is very diverse,” says
Burns & McDonnell has provided
businesses that want to start,
Ashlie Hand, director of communications for
engineering, construction, environmental
relocate or expand operations. It
the Kansas City Area Development Council
and consulting services to commercial
hosts one of the Midwest’s fastest-growing
(KCADC). The following is a breakdown of
customers since 1898. And, when it comes
labor markets, with 10 percent growth in the
the metro’s major industries.
to going green, BNIM and 360 Architecture are recognized for their sustainable designs
last decade; a workforce that takes fewer sick days than workers in 33 other major
Architecture/Engineering
metropolitan areas; and five stars from
The Kansas City office of Populous
Expansion Management for business health
(formerly HOK) is part of a network of
Creative
care costs.
500 employees who provide large-venue
Kansas City is second only to Chicago in the
and efforts.
Employees enjoy a cost of living below
architecture, like sports arenas. (More than
size of its advertising community. Bernstein-
the national average, and Expansion
520 million people have attended a Populous
Rein, Barkley and Kuhn & Wittenborn are a
Management also has given gold awards
facility in the past 10 years alone.) Other
few of the diverse agencies that serve clients
to many local school districts, plus
services include master planning and urban
across the nation.
blue ribbons to others. MSNBC ranked
design, interior design, facility operations
Kansas City fourth on its top 10 list
and sustainability.
But the creativity doesn’t end there. Hallmark Corporation has been a fixture
of underrated U.S. cities because of the
Kansas City-based HNTB Architecture
in Kansas City since the early 1900s. The
downtown renovations, historical landmarks
has served clients for nearly 100 years,
company sells half of all greeting cards in
and blues/jazz history, museums, fountains
primarily in aviation, education, corporate
the nation.
and barbecue.
and government.
28 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY
Photo by Paul Bonnichsen
I N
Finance
Located in Shawnee, Bayer Animal
resources efficiently across the continent,”
has
Health develops drugs for animals, from
explains Tim Cowden, senior vice president of
operated for more than 50 years from its
family pets to livestock and flea prevention
business development for KCADC.
Kansas City headquarters. The company
to joint disease therapy for horses. The
Kansas City’s rail system carries 300 daily
offers information about mutual funds,
company also is part of the Animal Health
freight arrivals and departures. One of the
retirement and college savings for individual
Corridor, which accounts for nearly 32
nation’s largest railroad companies, BNSF
investors, asset management for commercial
percent of total sales in a $19 billion
started in Kansas City more than 160 years
and nonprofit entities, and retirement plans
global market. Companies and universities
ago and is now a subsidiary of Berkshire
for small businesses.
concentrated in the region lead the nation in
Hathaway. It has merged nearly 400 different
all animal-related aspects.
railroad lines; absorbed 34,000 miles of track;
American
Century
Investments
Since its inception, Kansas City’s own
and grown to include 38,000 employees,
H&R Block has provided income tax preparation services to more than 24 million
Transportation/Distribution
clients across the nation.
The Kansas City International Airport
“KC offers a unique combination of
(MCI) ranks the highest in medium-sized
affordability and accessibility not typically
Biotech/Animal Health
airports in all categories by J.D. Power and
found in a major American city,” Cowden
With its world headquarters in Kansas
Associates in 2010.
says. “While there are many benefits of a
6,600 locomotives and 220,000 freight cars.
City, Mo., Cerner Corporation provides
“No U.S. city is more than a three-hour
Kansas City location, in particular, our
information technology that supports the
commercial flight away, so KC is a great
region’s central location offers business —
health care industry.
choice for companies that need to move human
regardless of the product or service it provides — a competitive advantage.”
Top 25 Kansas City Corporations (2010) Company
Address
Phone
Website
HCA, Midwest Division
Employees
8,127
2304 E. Meyer Blvd., Kansas City, MO 64132
816/751-3000
www.hcamidwest.com
Sprint (Hdq.)
7,300
6200 Sprint Parkway, Overland Park, KS 66251
913/624-3000
www.sprint.com
Saint Luke's Health System
6,627
10920 Elm Ave., Kansas City, MO 64134
816/932-3377
www.saintlukeshealthsystem.org
Hallmark Cards Inc. (Hdq.)
6,282
2501 McGee St., Kansas City, MO 64108
816/274-5111
www.hallmark.com
Cerner Corporation (Hdq.)
4,812
2800 Rock Creek Pkwy, N. Kansas City, MO 64117
816/221-1024
www.cerner.com
Children's Mercy Hospitals & Clinics
4,812
2401 Gillham Road, Kansas City, MO 64108
816/234-3000
www.childrensmercy.org
University of Kansas
4,693
230 Strong Hall, Lawrence, KS 66045
785/864-2700
www.ku.edu
United Parcel Service of America, Inc.
4,646
14650 Santa Fe Trail Drive, Lenexa, KS 66215
913/541-3740
www.ups.com
DST Systems Inc. (Hdq.)
4,425
333 W. 11th St., Kansas City, MO 64105
816/435-1000
www.dstsystems.com
Truman Medical Centers
4,021
2301 Holmes Road, Kansas City, MO 64108
816/404-1000
www.trumed.org
AT&T Corp.
3,710
1100 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106
816/275-9911
www.att.com
Ford Motor Company
3,600
8121 NE 69 Hwy., Claycomo, MO 64119
816/459-1249
www.ford.com
Black & Veatch (Hdq.)
3,200
11401 Lamar Ave., Overland Park, KS 66211
913/458-2000
www.bv.com
KCP&L (Hdq.)
3,200
1201 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106
816/556-2000
www.kcpl.com
Internal Revenue Service
3,200
5800 E. Bannister Road, Kansas City, MO 64131
816/966-2840
www.irs.gov
KCP&L
3,200
10700 E. 350 Highway, Raytown, MO 64138
816/556-2200
www.kcpl.com
Alliant Techsystems Inc.
2,600
R.R. 7 & Highway 78, Independence, MO 64056
816/796-5220
www.atk.com
Garmin International (Hdq.)
2,599
1200 E. 151st St., Olathe, KS 66062
913.397-8200
www.garmin.com
Honeywell Fed. Mfg. & Technologies
2,500
2000 E. 95th St., Kansas City, MO 64131
816/997-2000
www.kcp.com
General Motors Corp.
2,479
3201 Fairfax Tfy., Kansas City, KS 66115
913/573-7575
www.gm.com
Federal Express Corp.
2,412
8215 W. 108th Terrace, Overland Park, KS 66210
913/661-5000
www.fedex.com
Citi Cards
2,200
7920 NW 110th St., Kansas City, MO 64153
816/505-6536
www.citigroup.com
Commerce Bank (Hdq.)
2,145
1000 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106
816/234-2000
www.commercebank.com
Burns & McDonnell (Hdq.)
2,100
9400 Ward Pkwy, Kansas City, MO 64114
816/333-9400
www.burnsmcd.com
CenturyLink Inc. (Formerly Embarq Corporation)
2,100
5454 W. 110th Street, Overland Park, KS 66211
866/591-1964
www.centurylink.com
SOURCE: THINK KC 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY • 29
I N
K A N S A S
C I T Y
Follow the Leader A trailing spouse’s job is to find a job.
W
hen
one
family
member
requirement and probably
transfers to a new city, the
lack a developed network
trailing spouse must find a
that is vital to making a
new job, too. Luckily, Kansas City boasts
change. If you want a change,
hundreds of employers, in all sizes, from the
try working with a temporary
KC-headquartered Sprint, Hallmark and
employment service to feel
H&R Block to pharmaceutical giants Aventis
it out. Consider taking a
and Bayer.
temporary job to keep income
Start the job search online or with local
flowing and skill sets sharpened. It
©iStockphoto/Sean Locke
which have become important social and business resources for networking.
papers like the Kansas City Business Journal
could even become a starting point for a
Practice your interviewing skills
and Kansas City Star or business magazine
permanent position and help you network
as well. Know how to respond to
Ingram’s. The Kansas City Business Journal
at the same time.
Book of Lists can also help you develop a potential target list of companies. As a trailing spouse, you must make it your job to find a job. It’s important to begin
Volunteering or joining a chamber, church or other community organization also can provide access to a new network of individuals.
typical questions. Be able to relate to stories that link your experience and skills to the potential position and employer. Resources like emurse.com and interviewup.com can offer help as you edit your résumé and brush up on your
networking immediately, and a good place to start is with the company that hired your
Selling Yourself
spouse. They might have useful relationships
Sell yourself to a prospective employer by
already established with job recruiters.
specifying what you can offer. Doing online
Calculating Salary
Employment agencies can be helpful, too,
research about a company provides invaluable
Compare the cost of living in the KC area
but a recruiter is only a tool to aid in the
information about its needs.
with the cost of living in the area you are
interview skills.
search. Be leery of those services that charge
A well-crafted résumé reflects your
moving from. This, coupled with the
people to find a job. Contacting more than
previous job responsibilities and the primary
new salary of your transferred spouse, can
one recruiter is smart because each one has
skills you have and it should not have a
significantly impact what salary a trailing
access to a different job pool.
one-size-fits-all format. Tailor your résumé
spouse should seek. Salary.com is a good
to each individual position you consider.
resource for such information.
One surprising networking opportunity might be with a company that turns you down
Cottengim suggests developing a 30-
for a position. Tell them you’re from out of
second commercial, often used in networking
Helpful job-hunting websites
town and would love suggestions. It’s a
meetings or interviews, to help potential
www.careerbuilder.com
matter of asking the right question, but people
employers understand your background and
usually have a natural inclination to help.
the type of position you are pursuing. The
www.monster.com
Although some use a move to make a career
commercial should describe what type of
www.npconnect.org
change, Karen Cottengim, senior consultant
professional you are, your last position/
www.kansascity.bizjournals.com
with Right Management Consultants, says it
what you did on the job, your reason
actually may not be the best time because
for leaving and future focus. You should also
www.kc.careerlink.com
you will likely have to relax your salary
sign up at Linkedin.com and facebook.com,
www.kansascityjobforce.com
30 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY
www.headhuntersdirectory.com www.kcjobs.com
www.kansascity.computerwork.com www.kansas-city-jobs.dice.com
Find special offers and more lighting advice on our website.*
BATH LIGHTING?
Q: A:
How do I eliminate the harsh shadows and glare that I get in the bath mirror while I put on my make-up? For shadow-free bath lighting, placement is paramount. Lights placed above the mirror or on the ceiling will always create shadow and glare. Place pendants (as shown) on each side of the mirror for an even illumination.
KITCHEN LIGHTING?
Q:
I have a 300 watt fixture in the center of the kitchen, but I still find that I don’t have enough light. Help me, please.
A:
With the light above and behind you while working at your counter, you’re always in your shadow. By lighting counters with under cabinet lights, you can locate the light where you need it and reduce wattage. Save energy by using fluorescent, halogen or LED lights.
Conclusion:
Conclusion:
Everything looks better when the right lighting is placed correctly. The room looks better...and, of course, so will you!
Reading recipes and food preparation will be easier and more enjoyable. Less wattage will save energy and keep your kitchen cooler.
CEILING FANS?
140 to 200 Blade Pitch
Q: A:
Why doesn’t my sale fan I bought at the home center move much air? It rotates fast, but I can hardly tell it’s on? When purchasing a ceiling fan, choose a 52-inch blade width fan. It will move over twice the air of a 44-inch sale fan. And blade pitch is just as important. A cheap fan has little blade pitch, thus a very small motor will turn the blades fast, but not move much air.
Conclusion: To stay cool this summer and save energy, purchase a 52-inch ceiling fan with a 140 to 200 blade pitch.
For more helpful answers to your lighting questions, ask...
Lenexa * www.rensenhouseoflights.com 92nd & I-35
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Independence I-70 & Noland Road
Kansas City’s Most Recognized Name in Lighting
6116 Johnson Drive • Mission, KS 66202 • (913) 403-8136 Shop Hours 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Monday thru Friday or by Appointment
2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY • 31
RELOCATING?
Call Phil Summerson for
FREE:
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8101 College Blvd., Ste. 100 • Overland Park, Kansas 66210
1-800-684-9907 (913) 393-4565 www.summerson.com e-mail: phil@summerson.com
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I N
K A N S A S
C I T Y
Stretching Your Dollar Kansas City has a first-rate economy when it comes to low-cost living.
T
he Midwest has long been touted as having an abundance of affordable,
livable communities. Kansas City, the nucleus of the Heartland, is no exception. With good schools, plentiful parks, low housing costs and an
active business climate, the metropolitan area is the ideal relocation spot for those who want to have it all without breaking the bank.
Saving Money The Kansas City metropolitan area stretches into both Missouri and Kansas, and according to recent statistics from the Missouri Economic Research and Information Center, the two states were the sixth and fifth least expensive respectively in the United States. Missouri received a rating of 90.5 and Kansas 90.4 on ACCRA’s Cost of Living Index; similar states included Texas with 90.5, Colorado with 104.4 and Kentucky with 90.8. One of the reasons the area is so affordable is the cost of housing. For the first quarter of 2010, the median price for a single-family home in Kansas City was $130,700 __ comparable markets came in at $127,700 in Louisville, Ky.; $150,100 in Houston; $110,100 in Atlanta; and $224,800 in Denver, Colo., according to statistics from the National Association of Realtors. Cindy Guttery, president of the Coldwell Banker ©iS toc kph oto /He nrik Jon sso n
Relocation Center in Kansas City, has spent years wooing companies and helping people move to the area. She says housing is affordable because Kansas City’s building community is comprised mainly of local builders. Instead of the overhead of national companies, which corner the market in many communities, local builders have much lower margins and are able to keep prices reasonable. When relocating to the area, the No. 1 topic she is asked about is the quality of area schools. She says it is a pleasant surprise for many relocators to find out they can save money by putting their kids into public rather than private schools. Many of the suburbs are awash with Blue Ribbon school districts. “Private schools are great, and many want their kids there,”
34 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY
she says, “but as far as saving money on education, I tell them you’ll never find a place better than the Kansas City area for public schools.” Another cost-saving feature of Kansas City is its expansive infrastructure. The area is easy to travel, and you can get from almost any part of town to the opposite end in about 45 minutes. There are numerous main arteries to travel and, as Guttery says, “We measure rush hour in minutes, not hours,” which saves both time and money for the local workforce. Air travel is also an inexpensive perk to living in Kansas City. Travel costs less because the distance to many places is shorter than if one were on a coast. Guttery also says that because Kansas City International Airport lacks a major airline hub to control pricing, flights are cheaper than in other cities like Chicago or Houston. For those staying close for entertainment, it is difficult to beat the deals found in Kansas City. The area offers a plethora of diversions that are free to the public. Some include catching a free movie on a summer evening at Crown Center, visiting one of the many local family- and dog-friendly parks or the Deanna Rose Petting Zoo, or touring one of the local companies like Harley Davidson or Boulevard Brewing Company, the area’s largest specialty brewery. “All of the different free entertainment offered is so accessible,” Guttery says. “There are a lot of free opportunities to enjoy culture and fun activities with your family that you can’t find in other places.” There are also other opportunities for activities that are low-cost like those through local parks and recreation programs, inexpensive concerts and events, and reasonably priced tickets to Royals and Chiefs games.
Making Money Wages earned in Kansas City are comparable, if not higher, than those in similar cities in other parts of the country. According to the CONTINUED ON PAGE 37 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY • 35
Bureau of Labor Statistics, the annual mean income for the metropolitan area is $42,340. Other cities include Louisville, $38,920; Houston, $42,880; and Denver, $47,150. The Kansas City area is home to headquarters of companies from all walks of life, from information technology innovators like Garmin to the health care giant Cerner, as well as Hallmark, YRC Worldwide, Sprint, and Black & Veatch. On top of the companies headquartered here, Guttery says there are a large number of Fortune 500 organizations with regional offices in the area like General Electric and UPS. Some of the major sectors of employment include health care, local government, and accommodation and food services. The reason companies like H&R Block and American Century Investments were able to flourish in Kansas City is because of the vast entrepreneurial network in the area. KCSourceLink is one of the major organizations providing assistance to small business owners, connecting them with
t’s so very rare to find the architect who brings the same passion, exactitude and expertise to the actual construction. Yet, since 1975, Design Build Team, Inc. spaces continue to live DESIGN BUILD TEAM, INC.
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support and help they need to grow. Maria Meyers, director of KCSourceLink, works with a network of 150 organizations that support small business development, offering everything from business planning and cash flow management to finding a retail location or office space. Other support links in the area include local chambers of commerce and economic development offices, classes on starting a business, an active angel investor network and business incubators. Entrepreneurs also can get guidance from the Institute for Entrepreneurship and Innovation at the University of Missouri-Kansas City, where people can get academic degrees in
KCRAR Realtor Salesperson of the Year
entrepreneurship, and through the Kauffman Foundation, which works in research and policy and provides education to local entrepreneurs. “We have a great history of helping people be successful in this town,” Meyers says. “Those leaders who have [started businesses] in the past reach out and help mentor others.” 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY • 37
I N
K A N S A S
C I T Y
Caldwell Clinton Atchison
Leavenworth
Platte Ray Clay
Wyandotte
Johnson Jackson Douglas
Johnson
Franklin
Miami
Lafayette
The
Counties of Kansas City KANSAS County
County Seat
Population
Web site
Atchison County
Atchison
16,481
www.atchisoncountyks.org
Douglas County
Lawrence
113,488
www.douglas-county.com
Franklin County
Ottawa
26,441
www.franklincoks.org
Johnson County
Olathe
534,093
www.jocogov.org
Leavenworth County
Leavenworth
74,276
www.leavenworthcounty.org
Linn County
Mound City
9,962
www.linncountyks.com
Miami County
Paola
30,900
www.miamicountyks.org
Wyandotte County
Kansas City
154,287
www.wycokck.org
Linn
Cass
Bates
While every city has its own style, each county within Kansas City boasts its own wonderful and distinct feel.
T
he Kansas City area continues to spread out in all directions as more people move to the area. An ever-
improving highway system links the areas together, and new residential and commercial
MISSOURI County
County Seat
Population
Web site
developments are closing the gaps between
www.batescounty.net
cities and counties. The 18-county region is
8,969
www.caldwellcountymissouri.com
home to more than two million residents. But
Harrisonville
98,429
www.casscounty.com
Clay County
Liberty
228,358
www.claycogov.com
Clinton County
Plattsburg
Jackson County
Independence (1) and Kansas City (2)
705,708
www.co.jackson.mo.us
Johnson County
Warrensburg
50,669
www.jococourthouse.com
Lafayette County
Lexington
33,134
www.lafayettecountymo.com
Platte County
Platte City
85,896
www.co.platte.mo.us
Ray County
Richmond
23,445
N/A
Bates County
Butler
17,075
Caldwell County
Kingston
Cass County
even as the roads converge into a tightly woven metropolitan area, each county in it maintains a unique personality.
38 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY
20,683
N/A
K A N S A S
C I T Y
Photo by Matt Kocourek
I N
Park Place
Growing Cities Even as downtown Kansas City is revitalized, the suburbs continue to entice homeowners and relocators with upscale and affordable housing, rolling parklands, nearby amenities and a bustling business climate. Here’s a glimpse at the major players.
Johnson County, Kan. The communities southwest of Kansas City __ Overland Park, Leawood, Lenexa and Gardner among them __ are an anchor of the metro’s expansion. Collectively they’re part of Johnson County, Kan., a vigorous engine that combines nationally renowned school districts and low tax rates with one of the nation’s most educated workforces and a high-growth, diversified business climate. The result: A region brimming with some of the country’s most affluent and livable neighborhoods. They boast a stunning array of national awards lauding Johnson County and its cities as a leading place to do business (Forbes magazine), build wealth (Money magazine), raise families (Kid-Friendly Cities Report Card) and even frolic among the trees (National Arbor Foundation). No wonder it’s such a big draw. Johnson County’s population has jumped 25 percent over the past decade, now past 500,000, and it’s created more than 126,000 CONTINUED ON PAGE 44
42 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY
S
ally Sweeney loves to help the “kitchen challenged” find solutions to their design dilemmas. She can also help with the space planning of mudrooms, laundries, offices, bathrooms, and more. She can consult about functional layout and lighting as well as materials and equipment. When needed, she can provide working drawings for contractors and suppliers. Sally helps her clients make good decisions in the proper sequence to bring order to the chaos of the design process. This designer truly understands the functional aspects of kitchens and other home work spaces. She combines her domestic experience as oldest of eight siblings and mother of four with a university major in architectural design and construction and nearly 30 years in the kitchen and bath business. her designs have been featured in kitchen and bath issues of publications such as House Beautiful and Better Homes & Gardens.
KITCHENS & MORE (913) 441-4466
2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY • 43
Photo courtesy of Rodrock Development
jobs. The county also boasts some of the snazziest restaurants, shopping, entertainment and recreation this side of the Mississippi. Also, housing is affordable, with buyers able to choose from a wide range of home styles.
Kansas City, Kan. There’s a new hot spot for homebuilders in the Kansas City area, and its name is western Wyandotte County. Long shunned as a region too rough and tumble for upscale communities, the budding Kansas county, home to approximately 160,000 citizens, has been attracting developers. Igniting this residential activity is the commercial growth near I-70 and I-435, including Village West, a $400-million complex of trendy shops, restaurants and
entertainment,
Cabela’s,
Kansas
Speedway, Nebraska Furniture Mart and Schlitterbahn Vacation Village waterpark. New developments include the Wizards’ soccer stadium and a casino. The area’s appeal is not only based on the attractions but also on the location and affordability. Just 25 minutes from the airport, the cost for new homes is substantially less than comparable homes in Johnson, Clay, Platte and Jackson counties.
Lee’s Summit, Mo. Across the state line, Lee’s Summit, Mo., matches Johnson County in nearly every category of growth and quality of life, from award-winning schools and low crime rates to dramatic retail expansion and high household income. Except it’s on a smaller scale. Only about 50 percent developed, Lee’s Summit also 44 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY
offers an abundance of lakes and water
Introducing a
sports as well as low congestion. The success of Lee’s Summit rests in part with city leaders and their progressive approach to maintain the town’s sense of place and character.
‘BALANCED LIFE’ in Kansas City’s Premier Master-Planned Community
Lee’s Summit also is a city where school leaders are actively involved in business planning, and the city’s historic downtown boasts a charm of more than 100 shops and a pedestrian-friendly Main Street. Yes, it’s quaint __ folded within a city of vigorous growth and character. Awar d-W Liber inning ty Sch ools
ols ing Po Relax
The Northland Locals call it “God’s Country,” a reference that has little to do with religion but a lot to do with the rolling hills, abundance of lakes and easy living among the handful of communities just north of Kansas City. Located in the southern reaches of Platte and Clay counties, the Northland boasts an infrastructure of highways that makes
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getting around the easiest of all Kansas City metro hot spots. Perhaps most importantly, the Northland has attracted retail development: Briarcliff Village, a Tuscan-themed shopping center; Zona Rosa, an old-fashioned street setting;
Welcome Kansas City Symphony Homes of Note Tour 2010
and the Tuileries Plaza, an open-air shopping environment. The Northland’s secret is getting out; homeowners and retailers have discovered bliss in Kansas City’s northern suburbs.
Raymore, Mo. Some prefer to live on the Plaza and soak
Paths & Exe rcise Trails
Park Water
up the food, fun and street musicians. But others enjoy the quiet of a small town. In that case, Raymore is the place to be. Its small-town appeal, top-rated schools and easy access to highways 71 and 150, which lead to the bigger cities of Overland Park and Kansas City, give it the Realtors’ mantra: location, location, location. Creekmoor,
the
largest
residential
community, comprises nearly 1,000 acres and five distinct neighborhoods. With a golf course and private lake, the area has
VISIT OUR SALES TEAM Tom Johnson __ Sales Manager at The Preserve __ 816.918.4009 Edie Waters __ Sales Manager at The Village __ 816.536.0635 Exclusively Marketed by Realty Executives at Shoal Creek Valley 816.792.2400 and Re/Max of KC 816.453.7400.
SHOALCREEKVALLEYHOMES.COM
layers of appeal. 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY • 45
I N
K A N S A S
C I T Y
Sunset Hill
Waldo
Brookside
The Best Established Neighborhoods 10 Kansas City favorites full of charming older homes.
Brookside
plus proximity to the Country Club Plaza,
styles, such as Prairie School, Victorian and
Kansas City’s “Best Kept Secret” isn’t a secret to many __ it’s quite a popular choice
art museums, downtown and the University
Arts & Crafts. They were not all built by the
of Missouri-Kansas City. Neighbors gather
same builders or even in the same period.
among the locals. Many residents have
frequently for events like the Brookside Art
The neighborhood association, with about
grown up in Brookside and are now raising
Fair in spring and a St. Patrick’s Day warm
160 members, keeps residents busy with a
their families in the same area.
up parade.
full agenda. The homes are affordable and the neighbors are a pleasantly diverse mix
Multiple subdivisions, including Armour Hills, Astor Place, Morningside, Oak Meyer
Historic Westheight
Garden, Rockhill Gardens, Rockhill Ridge
On the National Historic Register since the
and Tower Homes, comprise the neighbor-
1970s, Historic Westheight is deeply rooted
Hyde Park
hood, a J.C. Nichols development of the late
in Wyandotte County’s Kansas City, Kan.
The century-old Hyde Park has become a
1920s. Brookside has a home to fit most
The
community
hot spot for homebuyers in midtown Kansas
lifestyles and comfort levels with distinctly
contains a goldmine of beautiful homes and
City, Mo., with the Country Club Plaza,
different housing options.
historic treasures.
Westport, Crown Center, River Market and
small
but
mighty
of people.
Residents enjoy shopping, restaurants,
Developed in the early 20th century, the
grocery stores and more at their fingertips,
neighborhood boasts a variety of architectural
downtown only a short drive away. Weaving in and out of the area’s oneCONTINUED ON PAGE 48
46 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY
way streets, you’re sure to get lost in the charm of the homes’ architecture and fine craftsmanship. Residential homes consist of single-family homes, duplexes and apartment buildings. Neighbors not only care about their properties, they work devotedly as a team to make the area a great place to live. From a beautification committee to crime watch to social events, neighborhood volunteers through the Hyde Park Neighborhood Association work together to make this community what it is today.
Lake Lotawana Missouri’s
notable
limestone
Hyde Park
cliffs
encompass the quiet community of Lake Lotawana, home to 1,872 residents in
Lake Quivira
appeals to young families, retirees and
eastern Jackson County. Located off I-470
Tucked away between rolling, wooded
singles alike. The majority of the area is
near Lee’s Summit and Blue Springs, the
hills is the 900-acre area known as both
considered Johnson County territory, but the
beautiful lake community is a mere
a community and a city. The gorgeous
Wyandotte County line runs though one end
30-minute commute to the city.
landscape and access to nearby major
of the lake, including 17 homes.
Lake Lotawana, itself, is one of the
cultural and commerce centers relieves the
deepest lakes with some of the clearest water
need for residents to leave their homes for a
Mission Hills
around. Residents experience a full range
getaway vacation.
Known
for
excellent
schools
and
of activities, including numerous boating
The private community of well-guarded
magnificent, well-maintained neighborhoods,
groups and a garden club, in this mixed-style
homes has its own country club, golf course
beautiful Mission Hills is one of Kansas
neighborhood.
and lake, plus a variety of organized social
City’s most desired, affluent residential areas.
The close-knit yet diverse city has its own
activities. The 200-acre spring-fed lake is
Home to approximately 3,500 residents,
professional police and fire department and
perfect for fishing, sailing, boating and
Mission Hills provides a small-town feel with
AAA-rated schools. Housing options range
swimming. Other amenities include six
all the access to the region’s entertainment,
widely from one-room cabins to million-
tennis courts and an 18-hole golf course.
shopping and dining opportunities.
dollar estates.
The relaxed, family-oriented environment
A collection of architectural styles, including Tudor, French, Colonial and Modern,
can
be
found
in
this
eclectic neighborhood. Condominiums and townhouses also are available. Estate property with golf course frontage and treed lots are just a few of the amenities.
Mission Woods Welcome to Johnson County’s tiniest town! A mere 165 residents reside in this pocket, tucked away at the busy intersection of Rainbow Boulevard and Shawnee Mission Parkway. A “Classic Country Club” look makes up
Westheight 48 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY
the architecture of the city, and its village size creates an inviting place to live.
Although Mission Woods is a city with its own mayor and city council, police protection and street maintenance are provided by nearby Westwood, which sends police officers to patrol continuously and trucks to salt the streets at the first sign of snow. Shawnee Mission Parkway, the main thoroughfare running between this area of Kansas and Missouri, allows residents access to almost anywhere in the city, including southern Johnson County and downtown.
Sunset Hill Broad, swooping streets, well-tended lawns and head-turning architecture mesh together in the city-driven nature sanctuary of Sunset Hill. Perhaps best known for its role in the Battle of Westport, the area is spotted with
Lake Quivira
historical markers and shares its backyard with Loose Park.
Union Hill
variety of window shapes and sizes. The
The park isn’t the only source of foliage in the area __ all of the yards are
City living is at its best in this well-kept
area’s newcomers, including Gillham Row
enclave comprising both older and newer
and The Founders at Union Hill, offer
well-manicured with bushes and mature
homes. Union Hill is divided into two
more contemporary features. Some older
trees, which make residents forget they’re
sections: older, single-family homes built
townhomes feature maintenance-provided
only a few steps from the hustle and bustle
around the turn of the century and newer loft
amenities like lawn care.
of the Country Club Plaza. Because of the
and condo projects.
The neighborhood association hosts
hilly terrain, each lot differs from its
Seemingly untouched by time, the older
neighbor, resulting in unique designs and
Victorian homes feature much architectural
giving the neighborhood a mix of great
detail with contrasting materials, decorative
architecture. No two homes are alike.
shingles, stained glass, carved stone, and a
occasional activities like a neighborhood cleanup and a garden tour.
Waldo Location, location, location. It’s the age-old Realtor’s slogan, and it is often used to describe
the
Waldo
area.
The
city
neighborhood boasts convenience as one of its most attractive features. Its close proximity to shopping and dining and its affordable, charming houses are a large part of Waldo’s appeal, but it is the close-knit community with a strong neighborhood association that keeps residents in the area. Unique homes with mature trees add to the neighborhood’s charm. Most of the homes are two or three stories, but the ranch style also is mixed in. Resale values make living in Waldo a great investment.
Mission Hills 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY • 49
I N
K A N S A S
C I T Y
New Home Community Guide Listings to help you find an ideal residential community for your family. NEIGHBORHOOD
LOCATION
PRICE RANGE
PHONE NUMBER
SCHOOL DISTRICT
Austin Meadows
Olathe
$150,000s+
913/764-7401
Olathe
Arbor Ridge
DeSoto
$180,000s-$220,000s
913/219-9365
DeSoto
Brighton’s Landing
Olathe
$210,000s+
913/782-0075
Olathe
Brittany Ridge
Shawnee
$200,000s
913/634-6604
DeSoto
Brookwood Farms / pg. 54
Spring Hill
$190,000s+
913/686-4738
Spring Hill
Cedar Ridge
Bonner Springs
$200,000-$300,000
913/449-4045
Bonner Springs
Cedar Ridge Park / pg. 17
Olathe
$220,000-$300,000s
913/829-5813
Spring Hill
Clearwater Creek
Olathe
$200,000s-$250,000s
913/488-2368
Olathe
Delaware Ridge
Kansas City
$120,000s-$200,000s
913/400-7225
Bonner Springs
Dorset Village at Manchester Park / pg. 17
Lenexa
$265,000-$340,000
913/390-7900
Olathe
KANSAS UNDER $300,000
The Estates of Connor Creek
Piper
$200,000-$300,000
913/593-5569
Piper
The Estates of Wolf Creek
Spring Hill
low $200,000s+
913/592-3633
Spring Hill
Fallbrook
Olathe
$200,000s
913/383-1800
Olathe
Gleason Glen
Lenexa
$230,000+
913/871-4148
Desoto
Holly Ridge
Overland Park
$230,000s
913/205-9444
Blue Valley
Maple Brook Park / pg. 17
Olathe
$210,000s+
913/254-0058
Olathe
The Meadows of Forest Hill
Olathe
$215,000-upper $200,000s
913/592-2226
Spring Hill
The Meadows of Forest View / pg. 17
Olathe
$290,000s+
913/254-1002
Olathe
Mission Cliffs
Kansas City
$220,000-$325,000
913/484-5946
Kansas City
Nottingham Creek
Olathe
$200,000s-$400,000s
913/592-2828
Spring Hill
Oak Run Meadows
Olathe
$155,000+
913/856-8010
Olathe
Piper, The Highlands
Piper
$130,000-$190,000+
913/219-9365
Piper
Raven Crest
Olathe
$210,000-$300,000
913/634-2724
Olathe
Ravenwood Place
Olathe
$210,000-$290,000
913/906-5417
Olathe
Saddlebrook of Cedar Ridge Park
Olathe
$260,000+
913/829-5813
Spring Hill
Sweetwater Creek
Spring Hill
$280,000s+
913/592-4555
Spring Hill
Whispering Ridge
Piper
$150,000-$450,000
816/228-1188
Piper
Willow Springs
Gardner
$150,000s+
816/214-2191
Gardner
Windsor Hills
Overland Park
$235,000-$500,000+
913/906-5417
Blue Valley
Woodland Manor
Olathe
$260,000s-$400,000
913/522-7356
Olathe
Ashford Villas
Olathe
$300,000s-$400,000s
913/647-5700
Blue Valley
Avignon Village
Olathe
$310,000s-$360,000s
913/254-0279
Olathe
Bristol Ridge
Lenexa
$400,000s-$800,000s
913/647-5775
DeSoto
Canyon Creek
Lenexa
$370,000-$900,000
913/441-8998
Olathe
Cedar Creek / pgs. 2-3
Olathe
$350,000-$2 million+
913/829-6500
Olathe/DeSoto
Coffee Creek Crossing
Overland Park
$400,000-$700,000
913/897-9666
Blue Valley
KANSAS OVER $300,000
LISTINGS CONTINUED ON PAGE 52 50 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY
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2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY • 51
NEIGHBORHOOD
LOCATION
PRICE RANGE
PHONE NUMBER
SCHOOL DISTRICT
College Meadows
Olathe
$300,000+
913/208-4386
Olathe
Cross Pointe
Shawnee
$300,000s-$699,950
913/962-0666
Shawnee Mission
Daybreak Ridge
Overland Park
$790,000+
913/661-8500
Blue Valley
Deerbrook Estates
Overland Park
$700,000-$1 million
913/897-1000
Blue Valley
Deer Valley / pg. 21
Overland Park
mid $300,000s-$500,000s
913/685-4010
Blue Valley
Eagle View of Grey Oaks
Shawnee
$400,000+
913/522-6959
Shawnee Mission
Enclave at Woodland Lakes
Lenexa
$550,000+
816/210-8787
Shawnee Mission
The Estates at Forest View / pg. 17
Olathe
$400,000s-$650,000
913/254-1000
Olathe
Fairfield at Heritage Park
Olathe
$330,000-$400,000s
913/768-4800
Spring Hill
Falcon Lakes / pg. 47
Basehor
$300,000-$400,000+
913/724-5400
Basehor-Linwood
Falcon Ridge Estates / pg. 47
Lenexa
$700,000s-$2 million
913/780-9000
Olathe
Falcon Valley / pg. 47
Lenexa
$300,000-$700,000
913/764-7838
Olathe
Granite Falls / pg. 51
Shawnee
$300,000s-$600,000s
913/268-4407
Shawnee Mission
Grey Oaks / pg. 17
Shawnee
$250,000s-$600,000s
913/441-4111
DeSoto
Hallbrook Farms
Leawood
$600,000s-$3.5 million
913/345-8877
Blue Valley
Hallbrook Village
Leawood
$600,000s-$2.2 million
913/345-8877
Blue Valley
Highlands Creek
Leawood
$1 million+
913/814-7999
Blue Valley
Highlands of Kensington
Olathe
$400,000s-$600,000s
913/897-9662
Blue Valley
The Hills of Forest View / pg. 17
Olathe
$340,000s+
913/254-1188
Olathe
LakeShore Estates
Overland Park
$500,000s-$1 million
913/530-1096
Blue Valley
Leabrooke Highlands
Leawood
$400,000s-$600,000s
913/814-9918
Blue Valley
Linden Place
Leawood
$400,000-$700,000
913/663-2616
Blue Valley
Mills Farm, The Estates of / pg. 61
Overland Park
$800,000s-$2 million+
913/239-8799
Blue Valley
Mills Farm, The Manor of / pg. 61
Overland Park
$500,000s+
913/239-8799
Blue Valley
Mills Farm, The Meadows of / pg. 61
Overland Park
$400,000s+
913/239-8799
Blue Valley
Old Leawood, The Estates of
Leawood
$1.2 million+
913/642-3400
Shawnee Mission
Park Estates of Leabrooke
Leawood
$500,000s+
913/814-9919
Blue Valley
Patrician Village
Lenexa
$300,000s-$450,000s
913/393-4999
Olathe
Prairie Brook / pg. 21
Olathe
$300,000s+
913/764-7007
Olathe
Prairie Point / pg. 21
Olathe
$300,000s+
913/685-4010
Olathe
Polo Fields
Overland Park
$400,000s-$800,000s
913/681-1004
Blue Valley
The Preserve at Clear Creek
Shawnee
$400,000s-$700,000s
913/721-3550
DeSoto
Quail Park Villas
Olathe
$370,000-$379,000
913/387-0188
Blue Valley
Ridgestone Meadows
Shawnee
$300,000-$500,000+
913/422-5151
DeSoto
Rockwood Falls / pg. 15
Spring Hill
$365,000-$2 million
816/589-6960
Blue Valley
Stonebridge Court
Overland Park
$300,000s+
913/387-0188
Blue Valley
SummerWood Estates
Overland Park
$700,000s-$1 million+
913/945-3700
Blue Valley
Tallgrass at Wilderness Valley / pg. 21
Overland Park
$600,000+
913/831-3388
Blue Valley
The Timbers at Clear Creek
Lenexa
$300,000s-$450,000
913/647-5775
DeSoto
The Village of Tuscany Reserve
Leawood
$600,000-$1.2 million
913/269-6038
Blue Valley
WatersEdge
Overland Park
mid $500,000s+
913/681-7775
Blue Valley
Wilshire Farms
Overland Park
$300,000-$1 million+
913/663-1910
Blue Valley
Wyngate
Overland Park
$500,000s+
913/908-4942
Blue Valley
Woodland Reserve
Lenexa
$450,000-$1 million+
913/764-9100
Olathe
The Woods of Colton Lakes
Overland Park
$700,000s-$1million
913/897-1824
Blue Valley
Arbor Walk
Lee’s Summit
$140,000s-$210,000s
816/537-4200
Lee’s Summit
Benson Place Fieldstone
Kansas City
$250,000s-$275,000
816/781-3354
Liberty
MISSOURI UNDER $300,000
52 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY
NEIGHBORHOOD
LOCATION
PRICE RANGE
PHONE NUMBER
SCHOOL DISTRICT
Benson Place Woodchase
Kansas City
$250,000s+
816/781-3354
Liberty
Carlton Plaza
Kansas City
$160,000s+
816/960-1300
Kansas City
Creekmoor / pgs. 10-11
Raymore
$200,000+
816/322-6092
Raymore/Peculiar
Dalton’s Ridge
Lee’s Summit
$280,000s-$450,000s
816/795-9255
Blue Springs
Eagle Creek
Lee’s Summit
low $200,000s+
816/554-1318
Lee’s Summit
Eagle Glen
Raymore
$180,000s-$350,000
913/491-1550
Raymore/Peculiar
Emerson Park
Belton
$130,000s+
816/308-6804
Belton
Greyhawke at the Lake
Smithville
$200,000s-$500,000s
816/223-5701
Smithville
Highland Meadows
Kansas City
$200,000s-$400,000s
816/587-6101
Park Hill
Highlands of Northview
N. Kansas City
$180,000-$230,000s
816/210-5777
North Kansas City
Hunter’s Ridge
Pleasant Hill
$200,000-$410,000
816/210-5777
Pleasant Hill
Kensington Farms
Lee’s Summit
$150,000s+
816/820-2228
Raymore/Peculiar
Legacy Wood / pg. 75
Lee’s Summit
$250,000s+
816/554-8881
Lee’s Summit
New Longview
Lee’s Summit
low $200,000s-$850,000
816/765-9535
Lee’s Summit
Northgate Village
N. Kansas City
$200,000s+
816/221-7681
North Kansas City
North Pointe Village
Peculiar
$169,950-$185,000
913/345-3033
Raymore/Peculiar
Park Ridge
Lee’s Summit
$250,000s-$1 million+
816/373-5900
Blue Springs
Raintree Lake / pg. 87
Lee’s Summit
$150,000-$850,000
816/537-6656
Lee’s Summit/Ray-Pec
Rock Hill
Blue Springs
$200,000s-$350,000s
816/228-1316
Blue Springs
Rosewood Hills
Grain Valley
$180,000s-$270,000s
816/419-9634
Grain Valley
Running Horse
Platte City
$250,000-$300,000
816/858-2512
Platte County R-3
Shoal Creek, The Village / pg. 45
Kansas City
$200,000s
816/792-2400
Liberty
Sunrise Farms
Grandview
$120,000s+
816/585-8809
Grandview
Tiffany Lakes
Kansas City
$285,000s+
816/410-5500
Platte County R-3
Timbercreek
Belton
$140,000-$200,000
816/590-4817
Belton
Timber Trails
Raymore
$200,000-$230,000
816/318-4424
Raymore/Peculiar
Woodland Shores
Lee’s Summit
$100,000-$2 million+
816/246-0064
Lee's Summit
Copperleaf
Liberty
$345,000-$600,000+
816/407-7347
Liberty
Green Glades at The Masters
Kansas City
upper $400,000s
816/410-6284
Park Hill
Highlands of Weatherby
Kansas City
mid $400,000-$800,000
816/407-5250
Park Hill
Lakewood
Lee’s Summit
$400,000s-$1 million+
816/350-1500
Lee’s Summit
Manderley
Kansas City
$480,000-$1million+
816/785-2100
Liberty
Montebella
Riverside
$400,000s-$2 million+
816/741-6504
Park Hill
Oakwood Forest
Kansas City
$320,000s-$500,000s
816/505-9494
Park Hill/North Kansas CIty
Private Gardens
Kearney
$400,000s+
816/781-4700
Liberty
Riss Lake
Parkville
$500,000s-$6 million
816/741-3002
Park Hill
Riverstone
Kansas City
mid $300,000s+
816/584-2654
Park Hill
Seven Bridges
Platte County
$300,000s-$1 million+
816/210-5777
Platte County R-3
Shoal Creek, The Preserve / pg. 45
Kansas City
$600,000s
816/792-2400
Liberty
Silverbrooke
Kansas City
$300,000s-$700,000s+
816/741-6504
Park Hill
Staley Hills
Kansas City
$300,000+
816/942-5486
North Kansas City
Stonegate
Platte County
$600,000s-$2 million+
816/587-6101
Park Hill
Thousand Oaks
Kansas City
$300,000s-$900,000s
816/891-7266
Park Hill
Winterset Valley
Lee’s Summit
$320,000-$1.5 million
816/761-9755
Lee’s Summit
Woodneath Farms
Kansas City
$350,000s+
816/781-7925
Liberty
Woodland Shores
Lee’s Summit
$100,000-$2 million+
816/246-0064
Lee’s Summit
MISSOURI OVER $300,000
2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY • 53
Golf Course Communities COMMUNITY
LOCATION
PRICE RANGE
I N
K A N S A S
C I T Y
SCHOOL DISTRICT
PHONE NUMBER
Cedar Creek / pgs. 2-3
Olathe, Kan.
$550,000s-$750,000
Olathe/DeSoto
913/829-6500
Cottonwood Canyon
Lenexa, Kan.
$450,000-$850,000
Shawnee Mission
913/963-2825
Creekmoor / pg. 11
Raymore, Mo.
$250,000s+
Ray-Pec
816/331-0754
Deer Creek
Leawood, Kan.
$500,000-$825,000
Blue Valley
913/897-7547
Drumm Farms
Independence, Mo.
$200,000s+
Independence
816/228-1188
Falcon Lakes / pg. 51
Basehor, Kan.
$200,000s-$650,000
Basehor/Linwood
913/724-5400
Falcon Ridge / pg. 51
Lenexa, Kan.
$400,000s-$1 million+
Olathe
913/780-9000
Falcon Valley / pg. 51
Lenexa, Kan.
$400,000s-$600,000s
Olathe
913/780-9004
Greens of Chapel Creek
Shawnee, Kan.
$200,000s-$600,000s
Shawnee
913/647-5700
Links at LionsGate
Overland Park, Kan.
$700,000s-$800,000s
Blue Valley
913/402-1100
Loch Lloyd
Village of Loch Lloyd, Mo.
$500,000-$1 million+
Belton
816/331-9500
The National
Parkville, Mo.
$250,000-$1 million+
Park Hill
816/587-4663
Prairie Highlands
Olathe, Kan.
$250,000s-$400,000s
Olathe
913/856-8550
Reserve at Prairie Highlands
Olathe, Kan.
$300,000s+
Olathe
913/764-1440
Shoal Creek Valley / pg. 49
Liberty, Mo.
$200,000s-$1 million+
Liberty
816/781-7203
Staley Farms
Kansas City, Mo.
$350,000s-$1 million+
North KC
816/734-1800
Stone Canyon
Independence, Mo.
$250,000s+
Blue Springs
816/228-1188
Tiffany Greens / pg. 83
Kansas City, Mo.
$300,000s-$1 million+
Kansas City, Mo.
816/801-8101
54 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY
2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY • 55
I N
K A N S A S
C I T Y
Maintenance-Provided Communities If you don’t like lawn care or snow removal, one of these communities may be for you. COMMUNITY
LOCATION
PRICE RANGE
HOUSING TYPE
PHONE NUMBER
KANSAS SUBURBS $150,000-$300,000 Asbury, The Villas of
Olathe
$112,000-$189,000
townhome
913/244-8254
Arbor Creek Brownstones
Olathe
$200,000s-$300,000s
townhome
913/397-6060
Brighton’s Landing Villas
Olathe
upper $200,000s+
villa/ranch
913/782-0075
Delaware Ridge Twin Villas
Kansas City
$140,000-$190,000
villa
913/400-7225
Estates of Wolf Creek, The
Spring Hill
$199,000+
townhome/patio home
913/592-3633
Enclave at the Reserve
Lenexa
$160,000s+
townhome
913/764-9898
Falcon Lakes Villas / pg. 47
Basehor
$250,000+
villa
913/724-5400
Falcon Village / pg. 47
Lenexa
$250,000+
attached twin villas
913/780-9699
Hazelwood Villas
Kansas City
$129,950+
villa
913/915-6500
Holly Ridge
Overland Park
$250,000+
townhome
913/205-9444
Lakeview Villas at Alvamar
Lawrence
$200,000-$280,000
villa
785/841-2400
Maple Crest, The Retreat at
Overland Park
$189,000+
townhome
913/685-0303
Mission 159
Overland Park
$289,950+
townhome/patio home
913/322-0800
Prairie Brook Villas / pg. 21
Olathe
$240,000+
single family/villa
913/397-0281
The Wilderness, The Haven at
Overland Park
$180,000-$250,000
condo
913/685-0303
The Wilderness, The Retreat at
Overland Park
$184,000-$199,000
townhome
913/685-0500
Willowbrooke Villas
Olathe
$190,000+
villa
913/491-1700
Avignon
Olathe
$300,000s
patio homes
913/254-0279
Canyon Creek Villas
Lenexa
$400,000s+
villa
913/441-8998
Cedar Creek, The Villas of Shadow Glen / pg. 2-3
Olathe
$550,000-$750,000
villa
913/829-6500
Falcon Ridge Villas / pg. 47
Lenexa
mid-$300,000-$500,000+
villa
913/780-9001
Parkway 133
Leawood
$600,000+
condo
913/219-6065
Pavilions at Piper, The
Kansas City
$300,000s-$400,000s
single family
913/721-0204
Prairie Villas at Falcon Valley / pg. 47
Lenexa
$300,000-$400,000s
villa
913/764-7838
Quail Park
Olathe
low $300,000s+
villa
913/681-8215
KANSAS SUBURBS $300,000+
56 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY
COMMUNITY
LOCATION
Tuscany Reserve, The Village of
Leawood
Villas of Highlands Ranch Whitehorse, The Villas of
PRICE RANGE
HOUSING TYPE
PHONE NUMBER
$600,000s-$1 million+
villa/townhome
913/269-6038
Leawood
$600,000+
villa
913/317-8525
Leawood
$360,000+
villa
913/851-9996
MISSOURI SUBURBS UNDER $150,000 Northaven Village Condominiums
Kansas City
$93,950-$96,950
condo
816/560-0637
Steeple Oaks Townhomes
Kansas City
low $100,000s
townhome
816/734-0675
Timber Trails Townhomes
Raymore
upper $100,000s+
townhome
816/524-3855
MISSOURI SUBURBS $150,000-$300,000 Benson Cove
Kansas City
$170,000s+
patio home
816/781-8647
Cherry Hills Cottages
Excelsior Springs
$170,000-$350,000
patio home
816/630-4000
Creekmoor, Edgewater/Westbrook Villas / pg. 11
Raymore
$250,000s+
villa
816/331-0754
Eagle Creek Countryside
Lee’s Summit
$215,000-$280,000
villa
816/554-2380
Fountains at Raintree Lake, The / pg. 87
Lee's Summit
$269,000+
villa
816/537-5113
Meadowood at the Good Ranch
Raymore
$200,000s-$240,000s
single family
816/318-4100
Northgate Village
North Kansas City
low $200,000s+
row home/patio home
816/221-7681
Park Ridge Manor
Lee's Summit
$250,000-$700,000
villa
816/373-5900
Red Bridge Greens
Kansas City South
$300,000s
villa
913/652-4382
Remington Villas
Independence
$150,000+
villa
816/228-1016
Royal View Meadows, The Villas of
Kansas City
$200,000-$325,000
villa
816/228-1016
The Vintage, Estates of
Excelsior Springs
$200,000-$325,000
patio home
816/630-4200
Trails at Park Ridge, The
Lee’s Summit
low $200,000+
villa
816/373-5900
Winterset Garden Villas
Lee's Summit
$250,000-$400,000
villa
816/761-9755
Woodbrooke Villas
North Kansas City
$160,000s-$240,000s
villa
816/682-8364
Creekmoor, Westbrook Villas / pg. 11
Raymore
$300,000+
villa
816/318-0299
Lakewood Shores Villas
Lee's Summit
$400,000+
villa
816/350-1500
Lakewood, The Falls at
Lee's Summit
$599,000+
villa
816/251-1745
Loch Lloyd, The Highlands of
Belton
$400,000s-$1 million+
villa
816/331-9500
The Reserve at Riss Lake
Parkville
$500,000+
single family
816/741-3002
Saddle Ridge, Villas at
Lee's Summit
$375,000+
villa
816/220-0401
Southgate Village at Lake Winnebago
Lake Winnebago
$300,000-$1 million+
villa
816/918-6103
Staley Farms, Elan Villas
Kansas City
$300,000s+
villa
816/734-1800
MISSOURI SUBURBS $300,000+
F O R M O R E H O M E A N D C O M M U N I T Y L I S T I N G S, V I S I T:
therealestatebook.com newhomebook.com uniquehomes.com seniorlivingchoices.com livingchoices.com ●
●
●
2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY • 57
I N
K A N S A S
C I T Y
Lofts, Condos and Urban Living Looking for a place in the city? Take your pick. NAME
LOCATION
PRICE RANGE
TYPE
PHONE NUMBER
WEBSITE
700 Broadway
706 Broadway St.
$120,000-$135,000
loft
816/842-6544
kcloftcentral.com
909 Walnut
909 Walnut
$160,000-$535,000
loft
816/278-3099
909walnut.com
Board of Trade Condos
127 W. 10th St.
$129,000-$250,000
condo
816/842-6544
kcloftcentral.com
Campbell Lofts
1535 Walnut
$170,000-$399,000
loft
816/842-6544
kcloftcentral.com
Coffee Lofts
321 May St.
$199,000-$299,000
loft
816/842-6544
kcloftcentral.com
DElofts
590 Delaware St.
$98,000-$299,000
loft
816/842-5800
delofts.com
First and Main Lofts
156 Main St.
$180,000-$350,000
loft
816/808-9848
firstandmainlofts.com
Fountains Lofts
8th and Broadway
$170,000-$445,000
loft
816/842-6544
kcloftcentral.com
Freighthouse Lofts
2029 Wyandotte St.
$170,000-$320,000
loft
816/842-6544
kcloftcentral.com
Liberty Lofts
360 W. Pershing Road
$89,000-$339,000
loft
816/866-1009
thelibertykc.com
Northgate Village
2901 Gentry Park
upper $100,000s+
townhome
816/221-7681
huntcommunities.com
Roanoke Plaza Condos
45th & Roanoke
$119,950-$134,950
condo
Robert Louis Stevenson
4804 Jefferson St.
$145,000+
condo
816/756-1717
rlscondos.com
Sante Fe Place Condos
2525 Main St.
$130,000-$269,000
condo
913/706-1892
santafeplacecondos.com
Soho Lofts
308 W. 8th Ave.
$89,000-$165,000
loft
816/842-6544
kcloftcentral.com
Union Carbide Condos
912 Baltimore St.
$150,000-$999,000
condo
816/595-7000
unioncarbidecondos.com
Vista Condominiums
3838 Rainbow Blvd.
$89,000+
condo
913/432-3838
vistacondoskc.com
The Westport Edge Condominiums
4201-4215 Clark Ave.
$129,00-$159,000
condo
816/333-5638
Winston Churchill Condominiums
803 W. 48th St.
$190,000+
condo
816/531-2023
winstonchurchillcondominiums.com
41 Penn
4120 Pennslyvania
$225,000+
loft
913/410-6273
41penn.com
4646 Broadway
4646 Broadway St.
$499,000-$1.9 million
loft
816/560-1273
4646broadway.com
Belleview Plaza
45th and Belleview
$399,000-$600,000
condo
913/638-5996
Crestwood Condominiums
5401 Brookside Blvd.
$299,000-$850,000
condo
816/333-7500
Freighthouse Flats
2120 Wyandotte St.
$299,000-$350,000
condo
913/206-7878
freighthouseflats.com
Kirkwood
4950 Central
$459,000-$2 million
loft/condo/TH/SF
816/531-9444
kirkwoodkc.com
One Park Place
700 W. 31st St.
mid $200,000s+
condo
816/756-2221
oneparkplacekc.com
Parkway 133
133rd and Roe
$500,000s-$1.2 million
condo
913/219-6065
parkway133.com
The Summit
1715 Summit Ave.
$299,000-$575,000
townhome
913/302-2439
kcsummitcondos.com
Villas at Plaza West
9507 Jarboe
$900,000+
condo
816/333-5638
Wallstreet Tower
1101 Walnut
$225,000-$1.5 million
condo
816/471-1010
Wornall Park Condos
300 W. 45th Terrace
$412,000-$980,000
condo
816/223-7756
UNDER $200,000
roanokeplazacondos.com
OVER $200,000
58 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY
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blog.designbuildteam.com Facebook.com/designbuildteam Twitter.com/designbuildteam
I N
K A N S A S
C I T Y
Your Kansas City Rental Guide Not quite ready to own a home? Kansas City offers an array of rental options. BUILDING
PHONE
PRICE RANGE
AMENITIES
909 Walnut
816/221-5500
$870-$2,600
garage parking, fitness center, climate-controlled storage, hardwood floors, rooftop garden
The Blenheim & The Sylvester
816/931-7474
$1,100-$1,890
large rooms, original details, w/d, built-in stereo, gated parking
Clubhouse Lofts
816/268-0386
$795-$3,000
pool/exercise facilities, snack/coffee shop on-site rooftop pool with sundeck, w/d, controlled access building with elevators
DOWNTOWN
Cold Storage Lofts
816/472-0126
$575-$1,300
The Dolores Lanell
816/931-7474
$1,100-$1,450
detailed aesthetics, energy-efficient, off-street parking, French doors
The Founders
816/777-5900
$675-$1,435
garage parking, w/d, central air, pet-friendly club room with TV/grill, pool and exercise facility, tanning bed
The Freighthouse Lofts at Stuart Hall
816/221-1620
$800-$2,500
The Illinois
816/931-7474
$1,450-$1,780
intercom entry, w/d, modern kitchen, historical details, hardwood floors
Library Lofts
816/842-6544
$625-$2,500
garage parking, health club, w/d hook-ups, city views, vintage architecture
Nine Ten Penn
816/471-7314
$595-$699
convenient to highways and shopping, private outdoor pool and garden
Old Townley Lofts
816/474-5638
$900-$1,250
pets welcome, garage parking, w/d, fitness facility, outdoor pool
The Payne Rowhomes
816/777-5900
$1,575-$1,995
hardwood floors, attached two-car garage, individual alarm systems
Quality Hill
816/472-4663
$655-$900+
hardwood floors, bay windows, pool, off-street parking
Quality Hill Towers
816/471-7312
$405-$540
central location, parking, exercise facility
Richards & Conover Lofts
816/474-5638
$800+
incredible views, pool, secure private parking, w/d
River Market Lofts
816/472-1344
$625-$1,150
nearby shopping, Old World charm, controlled key access
Roanoke Court
816/777-5900
$540-$685
historic charm, contemporary design, great location
Soho Lofts
816/471-4611
$750-$1,850
hot tubs/sauna, nearby shopping, fitness/club room
Union Hill Place
816/777-5900
$785-$1,240
hot water heaters, individual alarm system, w/d, balcony
Walnut 41
816/931-7474
$1,890+
2-story floor plan, w/d, private balcony, private entry, walk-in closets
West 7th St. Lofts
816/471-4611
$750-$1,100
w/d, elevator, water and trash paid, pets welcome, fitness room
Yankee Hill
816/931-2108
$879-$1,065
gated parking, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, w/d
KANSAS CITY NORTH Aloha Bay @ Harbor Town
816/455-9999
$770-$1,200
garages, alarm system, vaulted ceilings, fireplaces
Barclay Club Apartments
816/436-2202
$599-$1,040
24-hour fitness, tanning bed and sauna, pool, pets welcome
Barrewoods
816/420-9229
$695-$1,095
computer workstation in every unit, walk-in closets, pool, theater, w/d
Broadway Village
816/454-3479
$445-$645+
exercise room with sauna, playground, clubhouse, swimming pool with sundeck
Camden Passage
816/587-2900
$520-$830
patios/balconies with storage, pools/fitness facility, tennis and basketball courts, pantries
Carrington Park
816/436-6260
$679-$1,489
Playground, alarm, w/d, pool, fitness center
Clay Terrace
816/781-8787
$530-$760
AAA-rated Liberty schools, pool, clubhouse, garage parking
Continental North
816/436-4851
$495-$775
private entrances, playground, professional lawn care, trash paid
The Crossings at Barry Road
816/505-9700
$599-$1,050
pools/Jacuzzi, fitness center, on-site security, bbq area, dry-cleaning service
The Ethans
816/436-8662
$540-$785
w/d, fitness center, tennis courts, pool, weight room
Falcon Point
816/436-2620
$509-$715
w/d, fireplace, covered parking, free tanning bed, pool, fitness center
Forest Park
816/454-3535
$440-$775
laundry facilities on every floor, pool, fitness center, pets welcome
Hunter’s Glen
816/741-4050
$450-$710
fishing lake, pool, fitness center, saunas, minutes from KCI
Kensington Court
816/452-2288
$555-$795
full-size w/d, pets welcome, swimming pool and fitness center, garage and storage available
Knollwood Apartments
816/454-1562
$449-$955
clubhouse, playground, pools, organized activities
The Lakes Apartments
816/741-7565
$500-$755
w/d, fitness center, pools, tennis court, water and trash paid
The Lofts & Apartments at Zona Rosa
816/505-1146
$700-$1,695
stacked w/d, snow/trash removal, on-site security
London Towers
816/452-4237
$480-$670
no KC earning tax, pet-friendly, fireplaces, pools, patrol service
The Manor Homes of Fox Crest
816/468-8111
$699-$1,260
private attached garages, fitness center, business center, pool, jogging trail LISTINGS CONTINUED ON PAGE 62
60 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY
BUILDING
PHONE
PRICE RANGE
AMENITIES
New Mark
816/734-4030
$465-$795
pool, basketball and tennis courts, storage facilities, fitness center, woodburning fireplaces
Oak Creek
816/455-0204
$375-$425
swimming pools, laundry room, playground, water/sewer included, trash pickup
Province of Briarcliff
816/505-3101
$795-$1,470
full w/d, monitored intrusion alarms, resort-style pool, jogging/bike trail
The Reserve at Barry
816/741-6733
$620-$950
storage space, tennis courts, gourmet kitchen, pets welcome
The Vintage at Zona Rosa
816/584-9500
$700-$1,170
fireplace, fitness center, pool, modern kitchen, soaking tub
Madison @ Walnut Creek
816/459-8733
$590-$719
pools/hot tubs, sport courts, tanning bed, pets welcome, car wash bay
WildOak
816/407-7100
$695-$1,010
walk-in closets, w/d, discounted cable, pools/hot tub, fitness center
KANSAS CITY SOUTH Apple Creek
816/941-4144
$540-$690
pool, nature trail, caring management team, w/d, breakfast bar
Arbors of Grandview
816/761-3411
$475-$584
clubhouse, sauna/pool, dishwasher, central air, 24-hour maintenance
Briarwood Gardens
816/761-7731
$490-$710
clubhouse, laundry rooms, picnic/play area, fitness center, all but electric paid
Bridgeport
816/763-7008
$525-$680
fireplace, w/d, covered parking, alarm system, water/sewer included
Canyon Creek
816/761-7368
$360-$850
private patios/balconies, tennis court, playground, water/trash paid
City Homes at Fall Creek
816/229-7700
$675-$975
high-speed Internet access, w/d, pool, gated community
Coach House
816/942-1522
$475-$1,150
fitness center, pool, theater/media center, clubhouse privately locked building entry, pools, playground, water/sewer included
Gatehouse
816/763-6828
$460-$715
Grand Summit
816/331-3968
$535-$795
golf privileges for residents, fitness center, whirlpool/sauna
Lakewood Terrace
816/331-1855
$695-$795
gated entry, fitness center, laundry rooms, water/trash paid, (tax credit property)
Madison Park
816/761-7617
$535-$730
pool, sundeck/spa, 33 wooded acres, gated community
Nob Hill
816/763-8526
$399-$825
intrusion alarms, pools, trash pickup, playground, water/sewer paid
Park Meadows
816/737-1225
$555-$645
private patios/balconies, pool, picnic area with BBQ grills, w/d
Prairie Walk
816/761-9310
$545-$665
swimming pool, 24-hour laundry facility, pets welcome, community playground
The Ridge at Chestnut Hill
816/361-3395
$550-$745
fireplace, garages, laundry rooms, pool, lake
Three Fountains
816/942-1918
$719-$1,290
gas fireplaces, pool and clubhouse, private front/rear entrances, water/sewer/trash paid, w/d
Timber Lakes at Red Bridge
816/763-0330
$697-$999
full w/d, pool/hot tub, gated community, pets welcome, nature trail and fishing lakes
Waldo Heights
816/333-5401
$399-$499
indoor pool, fitness center, 24-hour maintenance, w/d
Windsong
816/942-5997
$550-$1,800
exercise room, outdoor pool, laundry rooms, ample parking carports, corporate apts. available
AMLI New Longview
816/761-1407
$797-$1,206
24-hour fitness center, business center, sidewalk patio, bbq area, swimming pool, w/d
Autumn Place
816/229-2883
$449-$699
laundry rooms, pool, fitness center with free tanning, covered parking
Brookstone Village
816/257-7368
$550-$675
luxury kitchen, pass-through serving bar, playground, covered balcony, pool
Burning Tree
816/373-8514
$470-$540
private hot water heater, electric appliances, large closets, sparkling pool
Cedar Brooke
816/373-8500
$605-$715
covered parking, swimming pool, clubhouse, private entrances, patrol
Cliffside Apartments
816/373-8510
$515-$615
woodburning fireplaces, cathedral ceilings, highway access, European-style kitchen
Cornerstone
816/923-9300
$635-$795
resort-style pool/spa, private decks with outdoor storage, fitness center, w/d
Coventry Park
816/373-6239
$580-$715
fitness center with free personal trainer, pool, pets welcome
Creekside Village
816/918-6810
$700-$1,150
maintenance-free, w/d, lifestyle center, fitness center, pool/Jacuzzi
Crossroads of Lee’s Summit
816/554-6240
$699-$799
clubhouse, fitness center, pool, pets welcome, all-electric kitchen
The Fairways at Lakewood
816/272-6175
$785-$1,250
fitness center, private balcony, heated saltwater pool with infinity edge, three-acre lake, w/d
Independence Ridge
816/795-1800
$525-$615
patios and decks, spacious floor plans, fireplaces, clubhouse, pool
Kingsridge
816/229-2122
$499-$700
vaulted ceilings, pool, fitness center, clubhouse, shopping nearby
The Mansion
816/478-2100
$545-$895
racquetball and lighted tennis courts, large closets, fitness center, gas included
Maple Hills
816/921-9663
$545-$990
controlled access gates, individual monitored alarms, pools, 24-hour courtesy officer
Pepperwood Apartments
816/795-8881
$734-$1,119
full w/d, lounge with TV/billiards, walking trail/basketball courts
Quail Creek/Roundtree
816/373-7666
$469-$689
vaulted ceilings, basketball and tennis courts, private entrance
Summerset Apartments
816/373-5100
$565-$760
indoor pool with sundeck, fitness center, clubhouse, covered parking
Trails at the Ridge
816/353-6060
$515-$620
large kitchen, breakfast bar, play area, beautiful landscape, pools
The Village at Adams Dairy
816/224-3334
$799-$999
health club, Blue Springs School District, direct-access garages, w/d, pool, pets welcome
Williamsburg Square
816/373-7254
$565-$690
pool/bbq area, covered parking, fully equipped kitchen, patios/balconies
Aspen Lodge
913/642-1750
$659-$980
indoor whirlpool spa, fireplace, fitness center, pool, smoke detectors
Bella Palazzo
913/681-0700
$795-$1,535
w/d, sauna, pool/hot tub, basketball courts, trail, fitness center
The Boulevard
913/722-3171
$604-$799
Olympic-size swimming pool, movie theater, sand volleyball, hardwood/ceramic tile, w/d
The Bridges at Foxridge
913/831-2900
$675-$1,225
gas paid in most units, w/d hookups, Internet cafe, pet park
KANSAS CITY EAST
JOHNSON COUNTY
Corbin Crossing
913/681-5700
$760-$1,500
w/d, intrusion alarms, fitness center, outdoor pool/spa, tennis court
Corinth Communities
913/642-1237
$759-$1,555
large kitchen, lighted tennis courts, covered parking, fireplaces in some units
The Dunes at Falcon Valley
913/712-9006
$699-$1,200
golf views, resort-style clubhouse, secluded yet close to services
The Dunes at St. Andrews
913/685-3939
$665-$1,060
w/d, wardrobe closet, views of golf course, walking trail, outdoor saltwater pool
Enclave at Town Center
913/498-8500
$661-$1,075
water/trash paid, pool, spa, fitness center, pets welcome, video rental
62 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY
BUILDING
PHONE
PRICE RANGE
The Falls
913/362-1920
$392-$892
AMENITIES
24-hour fitness center, on-site café, pool, tanning bed, pets welcome
Foxfire Apartments
913/362-9391
$575-$760
fireplaces/carports available, walk-in closets, tennis courts, pool
The Greens at Shawnee
913/422-8295
$690-$845+
golf privileges for residents, fitness center, water/trash/cable paid, pool, tanning beds, w/d
Hawthorne
913/491-6723
$470-$815
alarm system, laundry connections, clubhouse, fitness center, pools
Hunter's Pointe
913/451-1850
$655-$1,275
fireplace, exercise/weight room, covered parking, w/d, saltwater pool
Indian Meadows
913/791-1000
$570-$815
laundry rooms, pool, fitness center, walking trail, private entry, tax credit properties available
Jefferson Place
913/764-1471
$445-$650
clubhouse overlooking fishing lake, enclosed patios, laundry facilities in each building, pool
Jefferson Pointe
913/906-9100
$760-$1,745
gated community, granite countertops, 8,400-square-foot clubhouse, w/d
The Lodge of Overland Park
913/648-8000
$525-$850
24-hour fitness center, 22-mile trail, pools/courts/sauna
Oak Park Village
913/888-1500
$535-$805
clubhouse, pool, tennis and basketball courts, saltwater pools
Park Edge
913/307-9393
$750-$1,045
nature trails, fitness center, curbside trash pickup, pets welcome
Peppertree
913/384-1817
$530-$979
pool, w/d, Internet access, jogging/bike trail, grill/bbq area
Pinecrest Townhomes
913/397-7463
$935-$1,160
garage, laundry rooms, outdoor swimming pool/cabana
The Reserve at Lenexa
913/888-8700
$610-$849
w/d, woodburning fireplaces, garage, private balcony, pool, clubhouse
Ridgeview
913/829-8088
$480-$635
pool, central A/C, laundry rooms, eat-in kitchen with breakfast bar, (tax credit property)
Skyler Ridge
913/451-8976
$550-$915
pool, 24-hour fitness center, playground, alarm system
The Village at LionsGate
913/814-7368
$765-$1,650
direct-access garage, lake with nature trail, alarms, pool, fitness center, billiards, w/d
Whispering Hills
913/897-2116
$539-$699
indoor/outdoor pool, fitness center, tennis court, spa/sauna
Wind River Lodge
913/888-1505
$575-$895
Olympic-size pool, fitness center, laundry facility, racquetball/basketball courts
The Woods of Cherry Creek
913/491-3030
$740-$1,600
direct-access garage, clubhouse, w/d, breakfast bar, high-speed Internet, sunroom
For more listings, visit
Management Companies
Apartment Locator Services
AMLI Residential Cohen-Esrey Equity Corporate Housing KC Loft Central Oakwood Worldwide Plaza Apartment Center Terra Management
Accommodations by Apple Apartment & Rental Connections Apartment Finder / pg. 85 Apartment Search by CORT Home Rental Services Nexus Relocation Oz Accommodations Plaza Living Center / pg. 63 Reece & Nichols
913/905-1300 913/671-3387 800/601-6313 816/842-6544 913/492-1231 816/756-0701 816/561-9210
apartmentfinder.com
913/888-8100 816/587-5084 913/663-4545 913/894-9222 913/469-6633 913/232-5900 913/894-8400 816/931-3700 913/945-3704
THE HE
PLAZAC LIVING ENTER ENTER
Relocating in Kansas City? We can help! Specializing in The Plaza area, South KC, & Johnson Co. KS Our services include: ◆ Free, professional locator
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816-931-3700 800-546-4767 4621 Broadway, Kansas City, MO 64112 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY • 63
I N
K A N S A S
C I T Y
Clay County, Mo. Several school districts serve Clay County, including Liberty, North Kansas City, Excelsior Springs, Kearney, Smithville and Lawson, along with Platte County R-III and Clinton County R-III.
©iStockphoto/Marilyn Nieves
The North Kansas City Schools www.nkcsd.k12.mo.us Liberty School District www.liberty.k12.mo.us
Platte County, Mo. Park Hill R-IV School District is the largest
Back to School
district in the county, with more than 10,000
Public or private, elementary or graduate level, Kansas City excels in education.
second-largest, with more than 3,000 students
students being served in Kansas City, Mo. Platte County R-III School District is the in Platte City. North Platte R-1 School District serves Dearborn, Mo., while West
he Kansas City metro area has
T
Johnson County, Kan.
Platte R-II School District serves Weston,
some of the top schools in America.
Johnson County’s six school districts
Mo. www.co.platte.mo.us
Blue Valley high schools, Sumner
have some of the best public schools in
Academy of Arts & Science, and Park Hill
the Midwest.
Cass County, Mo.
are just a few examples of schools that
Blue Valley School District www.bluevalleyk12.org
The 12 campuses of the Belton School
have all been nationally recognized for their academic success. Following is a list of the major counties’ school districts.
Jackson County, Mo. There are 12 school districts in Jackson County. Many of these districts maintain
District
serve
about
4,800
students.
Shawnee Mission School District www.smsd.org
Students’ ACT scores were listed in the top
Olathe School District www.olathe.k12.ks.us
Kansas City metropolitan area in 2006.
DeSoto’s Unified School District www.usd232.org
10 among other school districts in the www.beltonschools.k12.mo.us Several other districts serve the Cass County area, including Archie R-V, Drexel
Gardner Edgerton School District www.usd231.com
R-IV, East Lynne, Harrisonville Cass R-IV,
AAA ratings, the highest possible. The Kansas City, Mo. School District www.kcmsd.net
Spring Hill School District www.usd230.k12.ks.us
Peculiar, Sherwood Cass R-VIII and
Lee’s Summit School District www.leesummit.k12.mo.us
Wyandotte County, Kan.
Higher Education
The Blue Springs School District www.bluesprings-schools.net
Kansas City, Kansas, Public Schools www.kckps.org
The metropolitan has many options for
The Independence School District www.indep.k12.mo.us
Turner Unified School District www.turnerusd202.org
them:
Bonner Springs/ Edwardsville School District www.usd204.k12.ks.us
COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES
The Piper School District www.piperschools.com
University of Missouri-Kansas City www.umkc.edu
Other Jackson County districts include Center School District, Hickman Mills, Fort Osage, Grandview, Oak Grove, Grain Valley, Lone Jack and Raytown. 64 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY
Midway R-1, Pleasant Hill R-III, RaymoreStrasburg C-3.
postsecondary education. Here are 20 of
University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kan. www.ku.edu
University of Central Missouri, Warrensburg, Mo. www.ucmo.edu Park University, Parkville, Mo. www.park.edu Avila University, Kansas City, Mo. www.avila.edu
BEST OUTDOOR LIVING SPACE
Missouri Western State University, St. Joseph, Mo. www.missouriwestern.edu Northwest Missouri State University, Maryville, Mo. www.nwmissouri.edu
• CUSTOM DECKS • SCREEN PORCHES • OUTDOOR KITCHENS • PROFESSIONAL DESIGN • DUPONT STORM ROOMS • FOUR SEASON ROOMS
Rockhurst University, Kansas City, Mo. www.rockhurst.edu William Jewell College, Liberty, Mo. www.jewell.edu Webster University, Kansas City, Mo. www.webster.edu/kc MidAmerica Nazarene University, Olathe, Kan. www.mnu.edu Baker University, Baldwin City, Kan. www.bakeru.edu Haskell Indian Nations University, Lawrence, Kan. www.haskell.edu Kansas City Art Institute, Kansas City, Mo. www.kcai.edu
COMMUNITY COLLEGES Johnson County Community College, Overland Park, Kan. www.jccc.edu Kansas City, Kansas, Community College www.kckcc.edu
Metropolitan Community College www.mcckc.edu
MEDICAL KU Medical Center, Kansas City, Kan. www.kumc.edu Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences, Kansas City, Mo. www.kcumb.edu Cleveland Chiropractic College Kansas City, Mo. www.cleveland.edu
2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY • 65
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
Is your child heading back to the classroom? See our list of top-quality schools to consider.
A
S P E C I A L
A D V E R T I S I N G Pictured: 1. Blue Valley School District 2. Gardner Edgerton USD 231 3. Lawrence Virtual School 4. Northland Catholic Schools 5. Shawnee Mission School District 6. St. Paul’s Episcopal Day School 7. The Mid-Continent Public Library
66 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY
S E C T I O N
Blue Valley School District
schools (5-8) and one high school (9-12).
commitment to excellence and passion for
“Education Beyond Expectations” is what
It is home to 12 Horizon Award-winning
working with young people have created a
the Blue Valley School District stands for.
teachers, a 2010 District III Athletic
world-class organization whose primary
Providing all Blue Valley students with
Director of the Year, a 2009 Presidential
objective is to maximize the potential of
unprecedented academic success and
Award for Math and Science teacher, the
all students — today and in the future.
unparalleled personal growth is at the
2007 and 2008 American Star of Teaching
913/856-2000 or www.usd231.com
heart of the district’s mission. Based at
Award winners for the state of Kansas, six
15020 Metcalf Ave. in Overland Park,
ING Unsung Heroes grant winners, and the
Lawrence Virtual School
the district serves 21,000 students in
2006 Kansas Milken National Educator.
Lawrence Virtual School is a tuition-free
league
online public school program serving
high schools grades 9-12, eight middle
championships in football, girls and boys
students kindergarten through eighth
schools grades 6-8, and 20 elementary
basketball, cross country, wrestling, track,
grade across Kansas, with an annual $97
schools grades K-5. In fall 2010 the
golf and volleyball during the past five
technology and instructional materials fee
district opened its fifth high school and the
years, and in 2009, participated in the
requirement. Families get access to the
Center for Advanced Professional Studies.
State Championship football game. GEHS
exceptional K12 curriculum and patented
913/239-4000 or www.bluevalleyk12.org
joins the Eastern Kansas League this year.
methodology for online learning; support
Six GESD schools have received
from passionate, Kansas-licensed teachers;
Gardner Edgerton USD 231
the Governor’s Achievement Award
a supportive school community; and a
Gardner Edgerton USD 231 serves the
representing the top 5 percent of schools
range of extracurricular activities. As the
communities of Gardner and Edgerton in
in Kansas. In 2009, GESD schools
leading curriculum provider for public
the southwest corner of Johnson County,
achieved the State Standard of Excellence
online schools serving kindergarten
Kan., with an enrollment of 4,600
in 74 out of 76 possible opportunities in
through high school, K12 has served
students. Gardner Edgerton has six
reading and math. As an honored District
elementary schools (K-4), two middle
of Character, Gardner Edgerton USD 231’s
southeastern Johnson County with five
GEHS
has
captured
17
CONTINUED ON PAGE 68
Whether moving across town or to another state, it’s a new adventure in a child’s eyes. This adventure includes every family member and your pets.
Happy Trails To You!
REALTOR FOR YOUR KANSAS CITY REFERRALS
Sharon K. Keller Real Estate Consultant
Keller Williams Realty Partners, Inc. Cell: 913-406-4980 kellersh@kc.rr.com
Sharon K. Keller Author & Realtor
www.sharonkellerkchomes.com 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY • 67
hundreds of thousands since its inception. Today, 96 percent of parents are satisfied with the quality of the K12 curriculum. 785/856-2000 or www.k12.com/lvs
Northland Catholic Schools The Northland Catholic Schools comprise six grade schools and one high school, all located in Kansas City North. These schools focus on the total personal development — the intellectual, spiritual, moral, physical and social development of
each
because
student. they
Students
integrate
succeed
faith
and
knowledge and acquire excellence in learning, innovative programs and training necessary for personal decision-making, with emphasis on personal responsibility and respect for others. 816/453-3450 or www.northlandschools.com
Shawnee Mission School District The Shawnee Mission School District serves nearly 28,000 students living in the northeast part of Johnson County. The district has a national reputation for educational excellence fostered by the community’s dedication to its schools that has earned it recognition among the top 4 percent of school districts in the country. Shawnee Mission offers a strong academic focus for students in grades K-12, including more than 70 advanced placement and honors courses. Two Shawnee Mission high schools were included on Newsweek’s America’s Best High Schools list. Innovative signature programs, including the Center for International Studies, International Baccalaureate, Project Lead the Way, Biotechnology, Biomedical and Pre-Medical Health Studies, and Legal Studies, offer an intensive focus in specialized areas of study. Career and technical education courses like multimedia and filmmaking, graphic design and culinary arts provide industry-specific training. 913/993-6200 or www.smsd.org
CONTINUED ON PAGE 70 68 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY
Gardner Edgerton USD 231 Trails to Success
Spring Hill School District
at 4041 Main St., is an independent school
(MCPL) consists of 30 branches serving
With more than 3,000 students in six
for students 2 1/2 years old through eighth
Clay, Jackson and Platte counties in the
schools, the Spring Hill School District
grade. Sessions for toddlers, preschoolers
Kansas City metropolitan area. It was
has a reputation for providing excellent
and pre-kindergartners are half-day or full-
established in 1965 and is now one of the
educational opportunities to its students.
day. A new 26,000-square-foot building
largest library systems in the United
In addition, students may participate in a
houses these young students. Grades first
States. The system contains more than
wide range of extracurricular activities and
through eighth are housed in a state-of-
three million books, which are made
community service projects. With support
the-art school building that includes a
available to all library users through an
from parents and the community, work
computer lab, gymnasium, foreign language
elaborate communication system and daily
continues each day by dedicated staff
lab and science lab, and an extensive
delivery service. This is true also for
members to prepare today’s students for
library with a mobile laptop cart. All
extensive collections of audio/visual
tomorrow’s opportunities.
students begin their school day with a
materials and online resources.
three
chapel lesson that instills character
In addition to the collection, MCPL
elementary schools, one middle school
development. Additionally, St. Paul’s has
offers a wide array of live programming
and two high schools, including a
three-and-a-half acres of playing fields.
for children and adults. The library’s
traditional four-year high school and an
Sports include volleyball, soccer, tennis,
Summer Reading Program for children
online school that offers educational
lacrosse and basketball. 816/931-8614 or
is one of the largest in the nation,
opportunities to students across the state
www.speds.org
encouraging reading through the critical
Currently,
the
district
has
summer
of Kansas. www.usd230.k12.ks.us
months,
and
the
system’s
EDUCATIONAL RESOURCE
Midwest Genealogy Center is the largest
St. Paul’s Episcopal Day School
The Mid-Continent Public Library
public genealogy facility in the nation.
St. Paul’s Episcopal Day School, located
The
816/836-5200 or www.mymcpl.org
Mid-Continent
Public
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2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY • 73
Numerous other child-care facilities offer I N
K A N S A S
C I T Y
a wide variety of educational choices, including KinderCare Learning Centers, Creative World School, La Petite Academy and Spectrum Station. No matter which facilities you consider, licensing should be a major concern. Licensing requirements differ somewhat on either side of the state line. When it comes to home care in Kansas, for instance, anyone providing care for children other than those ©iStockphoto/Ekaterina Monakhova
related by blood, marriage or adoption must be licensed or registered with the Kansas Department of Health & Environment. In Missouri, no license is required if the family child-care home provider cares for four children or fewer. When evaluating various care options,
Far from Child’s Play Finding the right day-care facility in Kansas City is easy with a variety of part-time and full-time solutions.
first and foremost, always ask about licensing and accreditation, request proof of claims, visit facilities in person, and remember to ask for references. Preschools do not have to be accredited by the state, but they should be accredited by
M
oving to a new community
school model that serves children from 6
brings
exciting
weeks to 12 years of age with full-time,
Above all, keep in mind that there is no
changes, and finding child care
part-time, and before- and after-school
perfect day-care/preschool solution for all
programs.
children; there is only the one that is
plenty
of
is frequently a top priority. Every child is different, and family needs vary across the board. Luckily, child care options do, too.
“Primrose’s unique curriculum called Balanced Learning blends the two leading
a nationally recognized organization.
perfect for your child’s and family’s individual needs.
If you are seeking minimal care, such as a
philosophies of teaching young children:
few hours per week, check with your local
child-initiated and teacher-directed,” says
places of worship. Mother’s Day Out
Anita Baude, owner of Primrose School of
programs are prevalent in church settings
Leawood. “The child-initiated component
Kansas City Area Child-Care Resources
and offer a caring, comfortable, playful
allows children to think for themselves and
Kansas Department of Health & Environment
environment for your child. These programs
explore their own abilities, while teachers
Child Care Licensing and Registration
also can be found in individual homes.
guide them toward a love of learning and
For daily care, your options range from
prepare them for lifelong success.”
Missouri Bureau of Child Care
in-home day-care operations to group child-
Montessori Academy in Kansas City,
care facilities to early education learning
Mo., is privately owned and well-known
centers and schools.
as a preschool/child-care facility that
If you are looking for a more educationally
offers
individual
attention
to
785/296-1500, www.kdheks.gov/health/index.html
each
oriented and curriculum-based setting for
child and a well-rounded educational and
your toddler, there are a host of preschools
extracurricular schedule. “The curriculum is
and learning centers in the Kansas City area.
a modified Montessori with extra classes in
The Primrose School has three different
Spanish, music and Suzuki violin,” says
Northwestern District Section for Child Care Regulation 3717 S. Whitney Ave., Independence, MO 64055 816/350-5450 www.dhss.mo.gov/childcare
Missouri Child Care Resource and Referral Network 800/200-9017, www.moccrrn.org
The Family Conservancy 444 Minnesota Ave., Suite 200, Kansas City, KS 66101
locations and is one example of a franchised 74 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY
owner Holly Beyer.
913/342-1110, www.thefamilyconservancy.org
Two Generations of Excellence
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www.holthausbuilding.com Custom Homes – Remodels – Room Additions – Lower Level Finishes
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K A N S A S
C I T Y
Going for the Greens Kansas City is blessed with an abundance of well-manicured and challenging public and private golf courses to enjoy. n Kansas City, the golf course is about
I
Falcon Ridge Golf Course
Sunflower Hills Golf Course
much more than the game of golf. It’s
20200 Prairie Star Pkwy., Lenexa
122nd and Riverview Road, Bonner Springs
a casual ground for talking business;
913/393-4653 or www.falconridgegolf.com
913/573-8570 or www.wycokck.org
a place for family and friends to relax
Falcon Valley Golf Course
Sycamore Ridge Golf Course
and unwind on the weekends; and a quiet,
9801 Falcon Valley Drive, Lenexa
21731 Clubhouse Drive, Spring Hill
peaceful escape on a sunny Saturday
913/780-5976 or www.falconvalleygolf.com
913/592-5292 or www.sycamoreridgegolf.com
afternoon. That is why it’s not unusual to
Heritage Park Golf Course
Sykes Lady Overland Park Golf Course
find many Kansas Citians, of all ages and
16445 Lackman Road, Olathe
12501 Quivira, Overland Park
skill levels, out on the greens. You, too,
913/829-4653 or www.jcprd.com
913/897-3809 or www.opkansas.org
can play on one of the area’s challenging,
IronHorse Golf Club
Tomahawk Hills Golf Course
innovative courses. Here’s your guide to
15400 Mission Road, Leawood
17501 Midland Drive, Shawnee
Kansas City’s greens.
913/685-4653 or www.ironhorsegolf.com
913/631-8000 or www.jcprd.com
Oak Country Golf Course
KANSAS PUBLIC COURSES
8800 Scott Drive, DeSoto
KANSAS PRIVATE COURSES
Deer Creek Golf Club
913/583-3503 or www.oakcountrygolfcourse.com
Brookridge Golf & Country Club
133rd and Metcalf, Overland Park
Painted Hills Golf Course
8223 W. 103rd St., Overland Park
913/681-3100 or www.deercreekgc.com
7101 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City
913/648-1600 or www.brookridgecc.net
Dub’s Dread Golf Club
913/334-1111 or www.paintedhillsgolfcourse.com
The Golf Club of Kansas
12601 Hollingsworth Road, Kansas City
Prairie Highlands Golf Course
18145 W. 87th St. Pkwy., Lenexa
913/871-7616 or www.dubsdreadgolfclub.com
14695 S. Inverness St., Olathe
913/888-4894 or www.gcofkansas.com
Falcon Lakes Golf Course
913/856-7235 or www.prairiehighlands.com
Hallbrook Country Club
4605 Clubhouse Drive, Basehor
St. Andrews Golf Course
11200 Overbrook Road, Leawood
913/724-4653 or www.falconlakesgolf.com
11099 W. 135th St., Overland Park
913/345-9292 or www.hallbrookcc.org
913/897-3804 or www.opkansas.org 76 • 2011 RELOCATING TO KANSAS CITY
CONTINUED ON PAGE 78
Photo courtesy of Staley Farms
I N
voted #1 in the Northland
Home of THE Women’s GOLF Expo
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our email club
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18 H OLE C HA MPIONSHIP R ATED FABULOUS P R ACTICE FACILITIES F ULL S ERVICE F OOD & B EVER AGE GPS P ROLINK C OMPUTERIZED G OLF C ARTS A NNUAL M EMBERSHIPS AVAILABLE R OBERT T RENT J ONES II D ESIGNED C OURSE
816.880.9600
w w w. t i f fa n yg r e e n s g o l f. co m
River Oaks Golf Club 14204 St. Andrews Drive, Grandview 816/966-8111 or www.greatlifegolf.com/riveroaks Rockwood Golf Club 2400 S. Maywood, Independence 816/252-2000 or www.rockwoodgolfclub.com Royal Meadows Golf Course 10501 E. 47th St., Kansas City 816/353-1323 or www.royalmeadowsgc.com Shamrock Hills Golf Club 3161 S. 291 Hwy., Lee’s Summit Photo courtesy of Tiffany Greens Golf Club
816/537-6556 or www.shamrockhills.com Shoal Creek Golf Course 8905 N. Shoal Creek Pkwy., Kansas City 816/407-7242 or www.shoalcreekgolf.com Swope Memorial Golf Course 6900 Swope Memorial Drive, Kansas City 816/513-8910 or www.swopememorialgolfcourse.com Indian Hills Country Club
MISSOURI PUBLIC COURSES
Tiffany Greens Golf Course
6847 Tomahawk Road, Mission Hills
Adams Pointe Golf Club
5900 NW Tiffany Springs Pkwy., Kansas City
913/362-6200 or www.ihcckc.com
1601 R.D. Mize Road, Blue Springs
816/880-9600 or www.tiffanygreensgolf.com
Lake Quivira Country Club
816/220-3673 or www.adamspointegolfclub.com
WinterStone Golf Course
100 Crescent Blvd., Lake Quivira
Bent Oak Golf Club
17101 E. Kentucky Road, Independence
913/631-7577 or www.lakequivira.org
1300 SE 30th St., Oak Grove
816/257-5755 or www.winterstonegolf.com
Leawood South Country Club
816/690-3028 or www.bentoakgolfclub.com
12700 Overbrook Road, Leawood
Country Creek Golf Club
MISSOURI PRIVATE COURSES
913/491-1313 or www.leawoodsouthcc.com
3 courses, Pleasant Hill
The Country Club of Blue Springs
Meadowbrook Golf & Country Club
816/540-5225 or www.countrycreekgolf.com
1600 NW Circle Drive, Blue Springs
9101 Nall Ave., Prairie Village
Drumm Farm Golf Club
816/229-1194 or
913/642-4640 or www.meadowbrookcc.org
15400 E. 34th St., Independence
www.countryclubofbluesprings.net
Metcalf Ridge Golf Club
816/350-9900 or www.drummfarmgolfclub.com
Hillcrest Country Club
6302 W. 295th St., Louisburg
Eagles’ Landing Golf Course
8200 Hillcrest Road, Kansas City
913/837-5476 or www.metcalfridge.com
4200 Bong Ave., Belton
816/523-8601 or www.hillcrestkc.com
Milburn Golf & Country Club
816/318-0004 or
Lakewood Oaks Golf Club
7501 W. 69th St., Overland Park
www.eagleslandinggolfcourse.com
651 NE St. Andrews Circle, Lee’s Summit
913/432-0490 or www.milburn.org
Fred Arbanas Golf Course at
816/373-2505 or www.logc.org
Mission Hills Country Club
Longview Lake
Loch Lloyd Country Club
5400 Mission Drive, Mission Hills
11100 View High Drive, Kansas City
16750 Country Club Drive, Village of Loch Lloyd
913/722-5400 or www.missionhillscc.com
816/761-9445 or www.jacksongov.org/golf
816/322-1022 or www.lochlloyd.com
Nicklaus Golf Club at LionsGate
Hodge Park Golf Course
The National Golf Club
14225 Dearborn Ave., Overland Park
7000 NE Barry Road, Kansas City
of Kansas City
913/402-1000 or www.clubcorp.com
816/781-4152 or www.hodgeparkgolf.com
6700 N. National Drive, Parkville
Shadow Glen Golf Club
Paradise Pointe Golf Complex
816/746-0200 or www.thenationalgolfclub.com
26000 Shadow Glen Drive, Olathe
18212 Golf Course Road, Smithville
Staley Farms Golf Club
913/764-2299 or www.shadowglen.org
816/532-4100 or www.paradisepointegolf.com
10310 N. Olive Ave., Kansas City 816/734-3839 or www.staleyfarmsgolfclub.com
78 • 2011 RELOCATING TO KANSAS CITY
I N
K A N S A S
C I T Y
Shopaholics Beware! Kansas City has enough reasonably locally owned ansas City is priced, a world-class shopping area. We do have the first shopping and nationally known retailers mall ever built, after all! You’ll to your special addiction. find feed that something you’ve been
K
searching for or you’ll find something you
©iStockphoto/Justin Horrocks
never even knew you wanted.
MIGHTY MALLS Corbin Park. 135th and Metcalf. This
including a double-decker carousel
Country Club Plaza. 47th
new shopping center has a unique layout
and food court. 816/795-8600
and
inspired by Tuscan landscapes that features
or www.simon.com
J.C.
Nichols
Pkwy.
Designed in 1922, the Plaza is a living monument to
fire pits, courtyards and fountains. Anchored by Kansas City’s first Von Maur, Corbin
Oak Park Mall. 95th
Park houses upscale retailers such as Ralph
and Quivira. Kansas City’s
and is modeled after
Lauren, Kenneth Cole and Nicole Miller.
largest enclosed shopping center, Oak Park
Seville, Spain. Known
www.corbinpark.com
Mall features more than 185 shops; a state-
for its world-class shopping,
of-the-art children’s play area and carousel;
the Plaza is home to big-name stores and
Mediterranean architecture
Crown Center. Grand and Pershing.
and unique stores like Sephora, XXI Forever
local boutiques, as well as year-round
This “city within a city” is more than just
and Lacoste, plus favorites like Coach, Arden
events from live music to holiday lights.
shopping, with two hotels, a variety of
B, bebe, Guess and more. 913/888-4400 or
816/753-0100 or www.countryclubplaza.com
restaurants, live theaters, ice terrace and
www.thenewoakparkmall.com
Hawthorne Plaza. 119th and Roe. One
the Hallmark Visitors Center, which offers a look at the history of Hallmark Cards,
M A L LT E R N AT I V E S
of Kansas City’s most original shopping
and Kaleidoscope, a creative workshop
Briarcliff Village. 169 Hwy and Briarcliff
centers, the architecturally pleasing, open-
for children ages 5-12. 816/274-8444 or
Pkwy. The 13,000-square-foot Tuscan-themed
air plaza features upscale boutiques,
www.crowncenter.com
Briarcliff Village offers upscale shops,
unique
restaurants and office space in the Northland.
largest Talbots stores in the nation and four
Independence Center. I-70 and Hwy
It includes local, elegant restaurants like
dining establishments. 816/756-3535 or
291. Set within a lively and luminous
Piropos and Trezomare Restaurant and
www.hawthorneplazashopping.com
atmosphere, more than 130 specialty shops
Lounge with fashionable boutiques like L&L
specialty
shops,
one
of
the
anchored by Dillard’s, Macy’s and Sears
Home Goods and Gifts, Urban Arts + Crafts
one NINETEEN. 119th and Roe. This
provide ample shopping opportunities with
and Nell Hill’s. The GreenAcres Market gives
plaza is a hub for stylish home decor
a pleasurable ambiance spread over two
consumers an alternative grocery store.
with major retailers such as Z Gallerie
spacious levels. A third level is dedicated
816/595-5820 or www.briarcliffkc.com
and Crate & Barrel. Shopping can become
to a food-themed children’s play area, 80 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY
a day trip experience with the clothing
boutique Mitzy’s London, which sells great fashions and serves tea and treats, or Soho 119, a small and upscale department store
that
houses
its
own
beauty
salon and restaurant. 913/788-3700 or www.onenineteenshopping.com
Park Place. 117th and Nall. Park Place surrounds Barkley Square, a park that is blooming in the warm months and transformed into an outdoor ice rink in winter. Shop at several unique stores like Annabelles Fine Linens, Envy Boutique, Gobug Baby and Kids, one of the two fine art galleries, rest at the trendy hotel or enjoy the tastes of several hip eateries. Stop by in the summer for a weekly flower market. 816/561-5111 or
The Legends at Village West. I-435 and Parallel Pkwy. This 1.1 million-squarefoot lifestyle center is at the epicenter of Kansas’ No. 1 tourism district, which also
Photo by Matt Kocourek
www.destinationparkplace.com
Power and Light District
includes outdoor retailer Cabela’s and Nebraska Furniture Mart. Play, eat and
Zona Rosa. 1-29 and Barry Road.
Spa. R.S.V.P and Sprangler’s offer unique
shop at this one-of-a-kind destination.
Shopping, dining and entertainment options
gifts, home accessories and stationery.
913/788-3700 or www.legendsshopping.com
are nestled within this upscale Northland
www.prairievillageshops.com
district steeped in old-fashioned charm.
Town Center Plaza. 119th between
Shop national chains, watch a movie or
Downtown Parkville. This picturesque
Roe and Nall. This upscale lifestyle center
fill up at any of the area’s restaurants.
place is a historic riverfront community
features
816/587-8180 or www.zonarosa.com
chock-full of shopping, dining and special
more
than
90
national
and
events, with antique stores and other specialty
specialty shops, including Coldwater Creek, Pottery Barn, Standard Style Boutique,
Corinth Square. 83rd and Mission.
shops. There are also unique clothing
Macy’s, AMC Town Center 20 Theaters
Covering the necessities like a grocery store,
boutiques, a farmers market, mini golf,
and several restaurants. 913/498-1111 or
tailor and salon, Corinth also encompasses
concerts, holiday celebrations and carnivals.
www.towncenterplaza.com
antique shops and women’s clothing.
816/505-2227 or www.parkvillemo.org
There’s something for kids and pets, too, at
Tuileries Plaza. I-29 and NW 64th
The Learning Tree and Land of Paws.
Power and Light District. 14th &
Street. As a mixed-use lifestyle center,
www.corinthsquare.com
Main. Downtown Kansas City surges with energy in this vibrant new shopping, dining
Tuileries is an open-air concept with a pedestrian-friendly environment. It hosts
Prairie Village Shops. 71st and
and entertainment venue. Catch a movie
more than 30 specialty shops, services and
Mission. Find upscale, designer clothes for
or live performance, shop unique urban
unique restaurants, along with several locally
women at shops like Haught Style and
boutiques and eat just about anything you
owned boutique retailers like La-de-da
Tulip. There’s plenty of fun for children
like. At night, it turns into a hot party spot.
and GoLogo Embroidery. 816/531-5303 or
with
www.powerandlightdistrict.com
www.tuileriesplaza.com
relaxing for mom at Bijin Salon & Day
clothing store Mady & Me and
2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY • 81
I N
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Hospital Hunting Searching for the right health care facility is easy in Kansas City. Johnson County, Kan. Children’s Mercy South
5808 W. 110th St.
913/696-8000
www.childrens-mercy.org
Children’s Mercy College Boulevard Clinic
5520 College Blvd.
913/696-8000
www.childrens-mercy.org
KU MedWest
7405 Renner Road
913/588-1227
www.kumed.com
Menorah Medical Center
5721 W. 119th St.
913/498-6000
www.menorahmedicalcenter.com
Olathe Medical Center
20333 W. 151st St.
913/791-4200
www.olathehealth.org
Overland Park Regional Medical Center
10500 Quivira Road
913/541-5000
www.oprmc.com
Shawnee Mission Medical Center
9100 W. 74th St.
913/676-2000
www.shawneemission.org
Saint Luke’s South
12300 Metcalf Ave.
913/317-7000
www.saintlukeshealthsystem.org
Children’s Mercy West
4313 State Ave.
913/233-4400
www.childrens-mercy.org
Providence Medical Center
8929 Parallel Pkwy.
913/596-4000
www.providence-health.org
St. John Hospital (Leavenworth)
3500 S. 4th St.
913/680-6000
www.providence-health.org
The University of Kansas Hospital
3901 Rainbow Blvd.
913/588-1227
www.kumed.com
Kansas City, Kan.
Kansas City, Mo. Children’s Mercy Hospital
2401 Gillham Road
816/234-3000
www.childrens-mercy.org
Children’s Mercy Teen Clinic
4605 Paseo Blvd.
816/234-3050
www.childrens-mercy.org
Kindred Hospital Kansas City
8701 Troost Ave.
816/995-2000
www.kindredhospitalkc.com
Research Medical Center
2316 E. Meyer Blvd.
816/276-4000
www.researchmedicalcenter.com
Research Medical Center Brookside Campus
6601 Rockhill Road
816/276-7000
www.researchbrookside.com
Research Psychiatric Center
2323 E. 63rd St.
816/444-8161
www.researchpsychiatriccenter.com
Saint Joseph Health Center
1000 Carondelet Drive
816/942-4400
www.carondelethealth.org
Saint Luke’s Hospital of Kansas City
4401 Wornall Road
816/932-2000
www.saintlukeshealthsystem.org
Saint Luke’s Mid America Heart Institute
4401 Wornall Road
816/932-6220
www.saintlukeshealthsystem.org
Truman Medical Center — Hospital Hill
2301 Holmes St.
816/404-1000
www.trumed.org
Kansas City, Mo. — East Centerpoint Medical Center
19600 E. 39th St.
816/698-7000
www.centerpointmedical.com
St. Mary’s Medical Center of Blue Springs
201 NW R.D. Mize Road
816/228-5900
www.carondelethealth.org
Kansas City, Mo. — South Cass Regional Medical Center
2800 E. Rock Haven
818/380-3474
www.cassmedicalcenter.com
Lee’s Summit Medical Center
2100 SE Blue Pkwy.
816/282-5000
www.leessummitmedicalcenter.com
Research Belton Hospital
17065 S. 71 Hwy.
816/348-1200
www.researchbeltonhospital.com
Saint Luke’s East — Lee’s Summit
100 NE Saint Luke’s Blvd.
816/347-5000
www.saintlukeshealthsystem.org
Truman Medical Center — Lakewood
7900 Lee’s Summit Road
816/404-7000
www.trumed.org
Kansas City, Mo. — North Children’s Mercy Northland
501 NW Barry Road
816/413-2500
www.childrens-mercy.org
Liberty Hospital
2525 Glenn Hendren Drive
816/781-7200
www.libertyhospital.org
North Kansas City Hospital
2800 Clay Edwards Drive
816/691-2000
www.nkch.org
Saint Luke’s Northland Hospital
5830 NW Barry Road
816/891-6000
www.saintlukeshealthsystem.org
Saint Luke’s Northland Hospital (Smithville)
601 S. 169 Hwy.
816/532-3700
www.saintlukeshealthsystem.org
82 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY
I N
K A N S A S
C I T Y
Integrative Health Care Kansas City practitioners seek to heal patients through holistic treatments. ust because you’ve moved to a rather conservative Midwest
J
a proper diet, often arranged by a nutritionist or other wellness
town doesn’t mean you’ll be met with only conventional ways
specialist; and an adequate balance between social and quiet time.
of approaching issues — even when it comes to health care.
Wellness practitioners do not condemn Western medicine, rather they
Beyond traditional medicine, Kansas City has several holistic health
suggest an integrated approach in which Western medicine and
practitioners who focus not necessarily on curing a symptom but
Eastern-based practices go hand-in-hand.
fixing the root problem through alternative means. According to Gwyneth Jones, a licensed holistic health practitioner, wellness is feeling good, creative and thoughtful in body, mind and spirit. But the actual practice of wellness-based medicine requires a bit more elaboration. Wellness-based medicine is based on the belief that the human body, when given the proper opportunity, can heal itself. This means
“They can complement one another well,” says Dr. Paul Schaal, adding that patients of both methods oftentimes can cut down on or get off prescription drugs completely. In fact, Jones has worked with several people who have a traditional doctor and come to see her too. If interested in total wellness, she recommends seeking a doctor who is willing to coordinate with a holistic practitioner.
making lifestyle choices, such as having an enjoyable form of
She says a typical session with a patient includes getting to know the
exercise; a way of de-stressing, such as yoga, meditation or massage;
patient and understanding what it is the patient needs then identifying
84 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY
his or her goals. To accomplish this, Jones has patients make a list of the pros and cons in their lives. Next, she has them select the top 15 things they would like to work on. Most patients say they’d like
MO V
NG
to drink less, quit smoking, make more time for relationships and exercise more. The third step of the meeting involves examining the patient’s health and encouraging him or her to eliminate any
WE CAN HELP!
negative habits. Jones says it’s best if patients start with what is easiest for them so they will feel more empowered to continue. Common practices of holistic health include
acupuncture,
massage
and
chiropractic work, osteopathic work, nutritional guidance and procedures like
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network spinal analysis, where the practitioner places his or her hands on the
Call 913/663-4545
person’s neck and sacrum to stimulate the
to receive our magazine or visit us at
central nervous system. Schaal, a Olathe facilitator for Network Spinal Analysis (or
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NSA), says the procedure sends a message to the brain, which then formulates a plan to heal whatever is ailing the person. There are also therapeutic procedures like bodycentered Gestalt psychotherapy in which the therapist works through the physical, emotional and spiritual dimensions of the person whom he or she is treating. The focus is to determine how physical and emotional issues are interrelated. As the word spreads, Jones foresees more wellness clinics offering multiple types of treatments in the same place, rather than sending patients different
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practices are also becoming slightly more mainstream. Schaal explains that accessibility to these treatments is increasing because of demand. “Insurance didn’t pay for acupuncture at first, now they do,” he says. For more information, check out the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine at www.nccam.nih.gov.
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P
ets — like people — react to change
much the same way humans do, and in some ways, a pet’s needs are not
I N
K A N S A S
C I T Y
terribly different from those of their owners. ●
Maintain your pet’s routine as much as
possible. Feed, exercise and play with it at the same times as usual. ●
Consider keeping your pet at a friend’s
home while you’re packing and moving so it doesn’t become upset. ●
Minimize digestive upsets with special
foods. Pheromones might also calm stressed pets. Use dog- and cat-appeasing pheromones in an outlet for two weeks before and after your move.
Moving Your Pets Your new home wouldn’t be the same without your family pet, yet your family pet might not be the same without some special attention during the stress of moving. Here’s what you can do.
©iStockphoto/Kristian Sekulic
●
Don’t use sedatives, especially on planes,
but Dramamine can help them combat motion sickness. ●
Prepare your animal for flight a month
before by getting it used to its carrier. Make it a familiar, comfortable place by keeping treats or a favorite blanket or toy inside. ●
Keep your pet under your plane seat if
it meets weight requirements, or you can choose to stow it in the cargo compartment, which is air conditioned and pressurized.
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You must have a health certificate from your vet to transport an animal this way. ●
Put your pet in an insulated carrier to
minimize large temperature shifts, especially during plane travel. ●
Check to see if your airline provides a
personal hand-carrying service. Be sure to leave instructions and include the last
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2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY • 89
I N
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Money Matters Bank on Kansas City providing the most competitive checking, savings and loan options at these select institutions. Branches
Bank
Address
Phone #
Website
Bank Midwest N.A.
1111 Main St., Kansas City, Mo.
816/471-9800
www.bankmw.com
37 50
KC & Surrounding Area
Bank of America
1200 Main St., Kansas City, Mo.
816/979-6677
www.bankofamerica.com
Bank of Blue Valley
11935 Riley St., Overland Park, Kan.
913/338-1000
www.bankbv.com
6
Bank of Lee’s Summit
210 S. Main St., Lee’s Summit, Mo.
816/524-1800
www.bankofleessummit.com
4
Blue Ridge Bank & Trust Co.
4200 Little Blue Parkway, Kansas City, Mo.
816/358-5000
www.blueridgebank.com
11
Brotherhood Bank & Trust
756 Minnesota Ave., Kansas City, Kan.
913/321-4242
www.brotherhoodbank.com
8
Capitol Federal Savings / pg. 93
9500 Nall Ave., Overland Park, Kan.
913/381-5400
www.capfed.com
22
Commerce Bank
922 Walnut, Kansas City, Mo.
816/234-2619
www.commercebank.com
48
CommunityAmerica Credit Union
9777 Ridge Drive, Lenexa, Kan.
913/905-7000
www.cacu.com
29
CoreFirst Bank & Trust
7430 Switzer, Shawnee, Kan.
913/248-7001
www.corefirstbank.com
Country Club Bank
414 Nichols Road, Kansas City, Mo.
816/931-4060
www.countryclubbank.com
Farmers Bank & Trust
14231 Metcalf Ave., Overland Park, Kan.
913/402-7257
www.farmersbankna.com
First Bank of Missouri
7001 N. Oak Trafficway, Gladstone, Mo.
816/436-1900
www.firstbankmo.com
First Community Bank
301 SE Main St., Lee’s Summit, Mo.
816/554-7000
www.fcbankonline.com
5
First Federal Bank
6900 N. Executive Drive, Kansas City, Mo.
816/241-7800
www.ffbkc.com
9
First National Bank
6201 College Blvd., Overland Park, Kan.
913/266-9090
www.fnbk.com
7
First National Bank of Olathe
444 E. Sante Fe St., Olathe, Kan.
913/782-3211
www.fnbolathe.com
3 16 8 10
10
Gardner National Bank
840 E. Main St., Gardner, Kan.
913/856-7199
www.gardnernational.com
2
Heartland Bank
4801 Town Center Drive, Leawood, Kan.
913/663-5656
www.bankwithheartland.com
3
Hillcrest Bank
11111 W. 95th St., Overland Park, Kan.
913/324-6400
www.hillcrestbank.com
6
Industrial State Bank
3201 Strong Ave., Kansas City, Kan.
913/831-2000
www.industrialbankkck.com
3
Intrust Bank
4000 Somerset Drive, Prairie Village, Kan.
913/385-8200
www.intrustbank.com
M&I Bank
8840 State Line Road, Leawood, Kan.
913/693-1600
www.mibank.com
14
Metcalf Bank
7840 Metcalf Ave., Overland Park, Kan.
913/648-4540
www.metcalfbank.com
20
Missouri Bank
1044 Main St., Kansas City, Mo.
816/881-8200
www.mobank.com
4
4
National Bank of Kansas City
10700 Nall Ave., Overland Park, Kan.
913/905-2100
www.bankofkc.com
6
Northland National Bank / pg. 94
99 NE 72nd St., Gladstone, Mo.
816/436-3500
www.northlandnationalbank.com
1
Peoples Bank
13180 Metcalf Ave., Overland Park, Kan.
913/681-3030
www.bankingunusual.com
9
Platte Valley Bank
2400 Prairie View Road, Platte City, Mo.
816/858-5400
www.plattevalleybank.com
8
Premier Bank
15301 W. 87th Parkway, Lenexa, Kan.
913/888-8490
www.premier-bk.com
Security Bank of Kansas City
701 Minnesota Ave., Kansas City, Kan.
913/281-3165
www.securitybankkc.com
11
The Mission Bank
5201 Johnson Drive, Mission, Kan.
913/831-2400
www.themissionbank.com
7
Town & Country Bank
4707 W. 135th St., Leawood, Kan.
913/239-0239
www.town-countrybank.com
1
UMB Bank
1010 Grand Blvd., Kansas City, Mo.
816/860-7000
www.umb.com
43
Union Bank
9300 Blue Ridge Blvd., Kansas City, Mo.
816/763-4400
www.unionbankmo.com
11
Valley View Bank / pg. 91
7500 W. 95th St., Overland Park, Kan.
913/381-3311
www.valleyviewbank.com
10
90 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY
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K A N S A S
C I T Y
©iStockphoto/Justin Horrocks
I N
Home Advantage An overview of your mortgage options.
D
ecreasing home values and defaults on loans have made mortgage lenders more cautious. Loans are stricter, more specific and can be more difficult to get. But that
doesn’t mean you, whether a future or current homeowner, should be discouraged. It’s all a matter of knowing the new rules of the game.
92 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY
The
new
standards
for
potential
homebuyers reflect the changing face of the lending industry. Diane Bennett, regional loan manager for Capitol Federal Savings Bank in Kansas City, says borrowers should expect to do the following: ●
Save at least a 3.5-percent down
payment for FHA loans or 5 percent for conventional financing, plus two months of total payments for reserves after closing, and be able to verify it came from their own funds. ●
Establish a good, traditional credit
history (up to four lines of good credit history with at least 12-24 months of payment history). ●
Be able to document a consistent and
stable history of income and show that it is likely to continue. ●
Be able to document stable employment
history. ●
Demonstrate that you can afford a
payment. Capitol Federal Savings currently requires 31-percent housing ratio and 41percent total debt ratio maximums. ●
Have appraisals scrutinized for supported
values. Make sure the report is consistent. Do the comparables support the market value? Are they current enough? With declining values and an increased inventory
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of distressed properties, this has become an extremely important part of the underwriting
●
process. ●
Refinancing
●
Another option many current homeowners are turning to is refinancing. With rates still
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at historic lows, it’s an attractive option for borrowers who want to lower their monthly payment. But obtaining one is not as easy as you might think. “Though it sounds like the perfect thing to do for everyone, it actually only works for a small percentage of homeowners,” says Cindy Hayward, real estate agent with Reece & Nichols.
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According to Hayward, among the issues
NORTHLAND NATIONAL BANK
homeowners may encounter in the refinancing
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Loan program availability. Many of the
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FICO score guidelines have changed.
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No more 100-percent financing.
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Some homeowners have experienced a
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Bennett says another change in refinances is the definition of “cash out,” which now means paying off anything other than the first mortgage and rolling in some standard closing costs. Some private mortgage insurance (PMI) companies will no longer insure a cash-out refinance, so unless you can come in at 80 percent loan-to-value (LTV) or less, you have limited options. Subordinating is also getting more challenging as well since many banks did not insure their second mortgages that were used for “combo loans” and subordinate banks are denying requests. Many have increased their subordination fees and/or the approval process is very long and exceeds the borrower’s rate lock period on the first mortgage application.
Jumbo Market Demand for jumbo loans continues. (For Freddie Mac, that equals loans higher than $417,000; Capitol Federal’s jumbo is higher than $500,000 and its super jumbo is more
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94 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY
comparable sales and declining values, and
720 for insured loans.
Second Homes Second-home loans are available, and many may see the current market as an opportunity to buy one, as many of these properties are located in areas considered to have a surplus of inventory (Florida, Ozarks, Arizona), making the prices attractive. However, some of these areas may also come with limited financing options. “Banks will typically be looking for larger down payments, higher credit scores and a good, solid history of reserves,” Bennett says.
Home Improvement Loans With less-than-ideal market conditions, many homeowners are investing money in their homes by remodeling or adding on. “Home improvement loans and home equity lines of credit are certainly at attractive rates,” Hayward says. “But the homeowner needs to have significant equity in the home to be able to take advantage of the rates. One thing that was difficult in past years for homeowners was that many lenders reevaluated existing home equity lines of credit (HELOCs) and reduced unused lines.” With cash-out refinances limited to 80
•
Interior/Exterior
applications for consumer home equity lines
•
Cabinet/Furniture Finish
or closed-end second mortgages to be used
•
Glazing Cabinets/Walls
•
Faux
•
Popcorn Ceilings/
percent LTV, there may be an increase in
for home improvement purposes (which could be a problem for people who have already taken out second mortgages when they bought the home with a combo loan
Remove or Paint
product). Combined LTV ratios have typically •
Power Wash
•
Deck/Fence Stain
•
Concrete Floor Finish
valuation, especially if the borrower is looking
•
Garage Floor Epoxy
for maximum financing of 95 percent.
•
Wallpaper Removal
been reduced from 100 percent or higher down to 95 percent maximum. Many banks are requiring full appraisals now as opposed to county valuations to ensure a current
So whether you’re buying your first home or looking to invest in what you already have, it’s all about managing expectations and knowing what to anticipate in today’s decidedly different lending market.
BRUCE RING PAINTING 913.837.5119 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY • 95
K A N S A S
C I T Y
Building Your Dream Home You don’t have to settle for less than your dreams when you’re settling down. Kansas City has a number of excellent architects, builders and remodelers who can help you create the home that’s perfect for you, even from miles away.
From the Ground Up
of their homes. Having references on hand
The first step on your homebuilding list
will help you in your selection.
is to find the right location. Choose the neighborhood, school district and proximity
All About the Money
to work that fit your lifestyle. Factor in the
Dream homes usually aren’t cheap, so you
site’s landscape, as different shapes and
must make creating a budget a priority. The
sizes will determine what style of home you
amount you have to spend will affect the
can build.
size, style and materials of your home.
Stay open and honest to the suggestions
For instance, a two-story Williamsburg-style
your team of architects and builders makes;
house is simple to build, but adding on wings
remember communication is the key to a
increases construction cost and utilities bills
successful project, and having the right
down the road, says Bruce Wendlandt of
team to talk to will make the process run
Wendlandt & Stallbaumer Architects.
smoothly. Ask to talk to a builder’s previous
Most people know what loan amount they
clients and see if you can get a walk-through
qualify for when starting the homebuilding CONTINUED ON PAGE 98
96 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY
Photo by John Ogilvie
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process, according to David Dussair of Design Build Team. “They need to design or search for a house plan to fit into that range. It’s easier to decide on a plan with everything you want in a house than to find out and it costs twice what you can afford,” he says. Doing a budget beforehand also will save frustration and disappointment. “It’s good to know in your heart of hearts where you want to be budget-wise, where your goals are and to be educated on price
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points,” Wendlandt adds. “It’s always easier to upgrade in the process than to get emotionally attached to a project and have to downgrade due to budget.” The way to determine your budget and expectations should come from a discussion of every detail, small and large. “Develop a list before you talk with the architect or the builder and just take it one room at a
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time and make a list of everything you want to do in that room,” Dussair says. “Prioritize the list from the most important to least important. More than likely when you get through the list and you start talking cost, you may have to leave off some less important items to get the more important things you want.”
Tele-Communicating If you’re building from a distance, you can get a better feel for your builder if you meet in person, and design ideas can more easily be discussed over the table. Once you have the right ideas and the right people assembled for the job, technology, such as digital cameras and e-mail, make it easier to watch construction from afar. “Our goal is that when we start construction, we want the drawings as close to perfect as possible so it minimizes the need for questions or problems,” Wendlandt says. “There’s always going to be something that comes up, but our goal is to write that instruction manual as clearly and accurately as possible and pull as many of the unknowns out of the question.” 98 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY
Tweaking an Existing Home If you’ve found a great place but it needs a nip and a tuck before it fits your exact needs,
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remodeling may be the option for you. One way to determine both physical and budgetary feasibility of a remodel project is to have a professional check out the property before you buy, says Greg Rothers of Rothers Design/Build. “You want to make sure the house is solid, has good bones, as people say. You should compare it to the value of the other homes in the neighborhood to make sure what you are
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instead of separate contractors. “We are constantly checking back with the budget in terms of each selection from a construction and material standpoint,” she comments. Rothers
suggests
working
with
a
contractor to remodel your home in phases. You may need to complete certain rooms, such as a bathroom and kitchen, to make
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the house livable when you move in. Secondary rooms can be updated later. “Get the details worked out upfront so there aren’t emergencies during the project,” Kirsopp adds. Once everything is discussed and good to go, your dream home could be ready by the time you settle in your new city.
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K A N S A S
C I T Y
Brand New Day Take the chance to reinvent your design style. elocating not only brings the
R
home. “That doesn’t happen often, but it did
professional help you make your new house
excitement of a new city but also
in this case, and the client ended up loving
feel like home.
the chance to completely redefine
the result,” she says.
look or simply tweak your style.
from city to city and neighborhood to
Finding an interior designer or decorator can
Gail Golden, a local interior designer
neighborhood. The good news is that the
be somewhat challenging, especially when
with Hobson Interiors, has firsthand
Midwest, particularly Kansas City, is filled
you’re new to the area. A great resource is the
experience with this. She remembers a West
with numerous architectural styles that will
local chapter of the American Society of
Coast client who decided to change her
please the most discerning transplants.
Interior Designers. Find a list of professionals
your home. You can start fresh with a new
Kansas City’s design sense varies
entire style from Art Deco to Country
While you’re acclimating to the scenery
French after visiting a furnished model
outside your door, let an experienced
100 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY
Helping Hands
at www.asidmowestks.org. CONTINUED ON PAGE 102
Photo by James Maidhof
I N
For the latest design trends from around the world with top designers & TV celebs.
Living Large 10am Sunday
Designer and host Karen Mills For more design tips and upcoming topics, check out our blog at livinglargeshow.com Executive producer Andrew Ellenberg
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personal
experience, particularly when a homeowner
That sentiment is echoed by both Reike and
recommendation, your real estate agent,
is starting over, they want a home built to
Lober, who agree that the burnished Tuscan
architect or builder can usually give you
their specifications with creative built-ins
interior that flourished throughout the past
a referral.
and expansive, wide-open floor plans. We’re
decade is now on the wane.
If
you’d
like
a
more
After touring a model home, that’s just
seeing clients who are thinking outside
Currently, brights are right and neutrals
how Chris and Julie Radford, who relocated
the box, opting for ‘flex plans’ featuring
are still a natural. Cherie Brown, kitchen
from San Diego, found their designer.
multiuse rooms, i.e., the dining room
designer with Kitchens by Kleweno, notes,
Builder Brian Koehler referred them to
doubling as a music room and a library or
“While there’s still a nod toward traditional
Carla Rieke, an interior designer with
extra bedroom used as an office. Also in
styles, there’s interest in the unexpected. We
Madden-McFarland Interiors, who the couple
demand are front porches, outdoor rooms off
are seeing clients who want the dark, rich,
says really listened to them and helped them
the kitchen (especially beneficial if a
almost black cherry or maple woods for
define their look. “Jumping up in size from
fireplace is included), multiple colors and
floor and cabinetry combined with a pop of
3,600 square feet to approximately 6,000
a variety of materials used on exterior
color sometimes in the wall color or tile. I
square feet was pretty dramatic, so having
surfaces,” Lober says.
recently completed a kitchen with dark
Carla’s ability to assist us with decorating
wood floors and cabinets then accented with
Step Inside
was critical,” Julie says.
an intense orange glass backsplash.”
Although the revered styles of classic
Stylist Karen Ladish has never been afraid
Making It Yours
design are being embraced around the
to use color. “Color lends bounce and gives
Lori Lober, co-owner of Provence Homes
metro, interiors are evolving. “I’m seeing
you a lift,” she says. Golden exemplified this
Inc. with her husband, John, acknowledges
fresh, light and cleaner color preferred to the
in her 2009 KCH&G Boulevard of Dreams
that it’s the design of a house, how it’s
earthy jewel tones that have dominated the
homes project in which she used a range of
decorated inside and out, that helps
palette for so many years,” says Gail Morse,
spirited, coastal colors from apple green and
homeowners turn it into a home. “In our
interior designer for Don Julian Homes.
white to sunny yellow and blue-green
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102 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY
spearmint. “Just like in the movies, color gives us a happy ending,” she says.
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Double Bottom Line Not only can you get exactly what you want from professionals in Kansas City, it won’t cost you your firstborn. Locals get a lot of “bang for their buck” all around the metro. Elvia R. sums it up best when her family recently moved here from Chicago. “All in all, the bottom line for those relocating is that this area is welcoming and affordable. Step outside the box, have fun and explore all of your options. Challenge your professional team to guide you through the process. We found our new home in
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H Consider these tips as you furnish your new home ■
Analyze the big picture. What do you want a room to feel like? How will you use this room?
■
When it comes to artwork, does it speak to you? Liking it is one thing, but being intrigued and moved by it is quite another.
■
What are your budget constraints? Abide by them. Stay on track.
■
The more contemporary the house, and the fewer room divisions there are, the more you need to make the rooms cohesive and vice-versa.
■
Do you want furniture that is hip, trendy and “disposable,” or something that you will keep for a long time?
■
Even if your colors, fabrics and furniture styles are an eclectic mix, do they somehow work together?
■
Do you entertain often? Are you chasing a toddler? Which approach is best for your home: formal or informal?
■
When it’s all said and done, does your home say YOU?
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2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY • 103