welcomehome by The Examiner

• Healthy lawns will make you and your neighbors happy

• Take a lesson in spring cleaning 101

• Choosing between front, top loading washing machines

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Spring Homes Tour: A Kansas City tradition for 49 years

othing compares to buying a new available in today’s new homes. An array of home and the thrill begins the housing types is featured from single-family first moment a home comes into homes and condominiums to town homes view. The 2011 Spring and villas. Builders ofHomes Tour is the perfer new-home commuFor more information, fect place for Kansas nities on both sides of visit www.KCSpringCitians looking to turn the state line as well as that dream into a realHomesTour.com. Homes in the city’s urban core. ity. With 246 homes Homes will be open can be viewed by price, throughout the metdaily from 11 a.m. to 6 location, builder, floor ropolitan area, this p.m. and admission is year’s Tour represents free. Tour Guide books plan, and subdivision. a wealth of housing will be available after choices designed to April 12 at the HBA lohelp buyers find the home of their dreams, cated at I-435 and Holmes. April 16-May 1. This Spring Homes Tour is generously The 49th annual Spring Homes Tour is an sponsored by First Federal Bank and United opportunity to discover all the new options Heating & Cooling.

Real estate

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title

insuRance

1257 S. 7 highway | Blue SpringS, mo

816.229.6391

Visit our website: ReeceAndNichols.com

CoZy independenCe ranCh

Vinyl windows & siding make outside maintenance easy. newer roof and hardwoods throughout. extra living in lower level. $60,000. mary Jo wilSon 816-655-6587

new on marKeT! SyCamore hillS low mainTenanCe ranCh $99K Charming home

lots of fresh paint inside and out. large living room walks out to a large yard & deck. great for entertaining. 3 bdrms/1 bath with double vanities. Jane mClain 816-289-0293

move in ready ranCh

on quiet cul-de-sac in established neighborhood, new paint, custom tile work and finished basement – VeRY nice! ChriSTina Brown 816-896-8916 www.TheBrownTeamCan.com

Home is in excellent shape! 3 bed, 1.5 bath. lots of updates and clean. 14x17 attached workshop in a great neighborhood. Must see! STeve adamS 816-589-2687 Steveadams@reeceandnichols.com

a very SpeCial ranCh new energy efficient upgrades! new concrete outside, updated inside, 3BR, 2Ba, walk-out basement, tranquil view, sPecial! told you so. roSe CaSey-green 816-655-6545 www.rosetherealtor.com

move in ready in Blue SpringS

Really roomy, clean and neat. Daylight finished basement, tons of updates: tile, roof. great price $112,500. paT & BruCe CarlSon 816-665-1371

don’T miSS ThiS greaT Buy! spacious 4 bedroom, 1.5 story. 3.5 baths, den/ office, formal dining, eat-in kitchen. great room + 2nd flr media room. 3 car garage. this is a short sale. The groveS Team 816-210-7113

this could be the best buy in independence. 3BR, 2.5Ba, formal living room, family room with woodburning frplc. Finished basement, fenced yard, storage barn. terrific property at $125,000. The mCgraw Team 816-655-6526 mcgrawteam@reeceandnichols.com

JuST reduCed $10K, 5Br all BriCK Huge price reduction on this beautiful 5BR, 3.5 bath all brick 1.5 story, all on 3.5 acres. For 24 hour recorded info, call 1-888-203-3708, ext. 02, or visit tHagewood.com. TraviS hagewood 816-719-7933

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thanks for stopping by by sandy turner

f you’ve never had the chance to take part of the Home Builders Association Spring Parade of Homes Tour, you’re missing out. Regardless of whether or not you’re thinking about making a move, it’s fun, it’s free and it’s a great way to see what the builders of today can do and offer. This week’s feature is on one of the homes on tour in Meadowbrook Estates. Built by McBee Custom Homes, and located in Independence, it proves the days of the recession are fading and the housing industry is as strong as ever. The Spring Parade of Homes Tour continues through May 1 and a complete listing of homes on tour can be found at www. KCSpringHomesTour.com. Read more about Meadowbrook Estates on pages 10 and 11. Besides just looking good, there are a lot of benefits from having a healthy and green lawn. My boyfriend takes great pride in his lawn and will even risk his life fertilizing during a thunderstorm, just to

make sure it gets soaked into the ground. I won’t go that far, although I did walk the 10 acres to seed the bare spots. Read more about healthy lawns on page 16. If I could have my dream job it would be to have the opportunity to restore an older home, bring back it’s character while adding some flair of my own. The article on page 14 captured my attention as the homeowners tell their story, step-bystep, of remodeling an old farmhouse. If this is something you have experienced, I’d love to hear and share your story as well. We have an advantage when it comes to tree trimming, which is a good thing, since we have 10 acres full of them. With my boyfriend being an electrician, he has a boom truck, which allows him easy access to the top of the trees. Knowing when and where to cut is the problem, as you don’t want the finished project to look like they’ve been butchered. Trimming your trees is necessary, not only cosmetic purposes, but it also helps

the grass to grow by allowing more sunlight to filter through. The article on page 12 gives some great tips on when and where to trim but please remember to always play it safe and have someone help with this kind of project. Although I know it’s time to spring clean indoors I seem to be lost in the world of sprucing up the outdoors. From cleaning out the winters build up of leaves to planting, it leaves little time for housework. I’m going to take the advice from the article on page 13 and concentrate on small areas at a time, instead of trying to bust through the winter months of grime all at once. I’m just glad to be able to open the windows. If you need to buy new garden hoses this year, check out the information on page 18. There’s more to a hose than meets the eye! Thanks for stopping by,

Sandy Turner

If you have a question that you would like a professional to answer, questions or comments in general, or if there is something that you would like to see covered in WelcomeHome, please e-mail Sandy Turner at sandydownhome@hotmail.com. Sandy looks forward to hearing from you.

inside april 21, 2010

Asking the right questions when choosing a washing machine.............5 Multi-season shrubs provide shade year round.................................7 House plan of the week............................8 On parade — Meadowbrook Estates........................ 10, 11 When and why to prune trees...................... 12 Healthy spring cleaning 101.................... 13 Rejuvenating an old farmhouse................ 14 A little of this and that........................... 15 Healthy lawns make happy neighbors............ 16 Choosing a garden hose................................. 18 Classifieds....................... 19

welcomehome For advertising, call 350-6383

Steve Curd

Publisher 816.350.6311 steve.curd@examiner.net

Dave Lammers

Advertising Director 816.350.6326 dave.lammers@examiner.net

Sharon Dankenbring

Marketing Director 816.350.6341 sharon.dankenbring@examiner.net

Sandy Turner

sandydownhome@hotmail.com

MaryAnne Tennant

Account Executive 816.350.6378 maryanne.tennant@examiner.net

Joe Boothe

Art Director 816.350.6358 joe.boothe@examiner.net

WelcomeHome, a premier home magazine for eastern Jackson County, is a biweekly publication owned and operated by The Examiner, a locally managed division of GateHouse Media. WelcomeHome is published once a week and distributed in the Thursday’s edition of The Examiner, in portions of The Extra’s circulation and in racks throughout the metro area.

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www.McBeeCustomHomes.com

parade of home s oN

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tHe GaLLatiN

tHe RiveRtoN

april 16 - May 1, 2011 11aM to 6 PM

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Mo De Lo Pe ND aiL y!

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Conveniently Located 2 Blocks North of Pink Hill on R.D. Mize

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For more information, please contact

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Top- or front-load is first question of washing machines

fyi|

By Shaunna Gately

Tips about washing machines

GateHouse News Service

ront-loader or top-loader? That’s the question most consumers need to ask themselves before hunting for a new washing machine. Taylor Plott, salesman at Hancock TV and Appliance in Quincy, Mass., said you should be able to find a basic washing machine for about $500, but the machines can run as high as $2,000. Options on a machine, such as steam cycles that help to pretreat stains and faster spin-cycles, can drive up the cost quite a bit. Depending on the size of your household or your typical load of laundry, you could save money by picking a washer with a smaller capacity. “Capacity is one thing that you do pay for,” Plott said. Most washing machines conform to the standard 27 inches in width. To be able to house a larger drum at that width, they can become much deeper, so make sure you measure the space you have available before buying - especially if the washer will be in a closet with doors that slide closed. Front-loaders tend to be more expensive, but they also could save you money in the long run

because they can be more efficient. However .... “Front-loaders are nice, but they are expensive to repair if something goes wrong, and I don’t think you end up saving the money that you spend if you are buying one to save money on electricity and water,” said Warren Naujalis, owner of Precision Appliance in Pembroke, Mass. One problem with front-loading machines that many manufacturers have been trying to correct, Naujalis said, is the potential for mold

along the rubber seal on the door if the machine does not dry out completely after it is used. “It’s a huge issue, and it’s not easily remedied,” Naujalis said. If you are buying a front-loading washing machine because of the water savings, it is a good idea to make sure you are careful to leave the door open after a wash. Many machines now use anti-microbial materials, but it wouldn’t hurt to invest in some tablets that can be used once a month to clean the machine.

n n n n

If you are not particular about the look of your washing machine, opt for the basic white model. They typically sell for $100 less than machines that come in trendy colors. Extended warranties don’t usually provide much of a benefit. Many experts say just to skip them. There are rebates available for the purchase of energy-efficient washers from both the manufacturer and your local utility company. Check out websites like EnergySavers.gov for more details. Look for high spin speeds. A typical washing machine spin cycle runs at 630 rpm, but some spin cycles reach speeds up to 1,200 rpm. This will dry your clothes much faster and cut down on energy usage.

– Source: www.consumerresearch.com

FEATURE HOME OF THE WEEK 513 SW LAKESIDE COURT BLUE SPRINGS, MO • 4 bedroom

• 3.5 bath

• 3 car garage

Find out how you can buy this or any of our new construction homes on April 30th from 10am - 2pm. The class is hosted by Summit Homes, the Rob Ellerman Team and Pulaski Bank. Call 816.305.LOAN to RSVP for the class.

$285,000

This home marketed by

REECE & NICHOLS THE ROB ELLERMAN TEAM 816-309-9445

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7 Oakleaf hydrangea

with joe lamp’l

Multi-seasonal shrubs that thrive in sun or shade Bottlebrush buckeye

hrubs are the plant backbone of the garden. They form a solid framework and a great backdrop for the more flamboyant perennial and annual performers. But I’ve noticed that in shady yards only a few of these versatile troupers get much use -- azaleas, boxwoods, privets and yews seem to be the most popular players. When they’re the only shrubs in a shady landscape, they tend to make things look dark. The answer to this is shrubs that shine with more than one look across the seasons. Multi-season shrubs might start out in spring with a burst of flowers, and then come into summer with rich, bright, variegated foliage. In autumn, that foliage may show spectacular color or a bright fruit that hangs on through winter. There aren’t a lot of multiseason shrubs for shade, but here are a few. Keep the interest going all year by combining them to alternately show off and step back to fill in each other’s gaps. Oakleaf hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia): Full shade to full sun; performs best in moist, slightly acid soil. Native to the Southeast. Large white, turning to pink, panicles in late

summer. Brilliant fall foliage in hues of red and garnet, and interesting bark in winter. Up to 10 feet tall and wide, but typically smaller in the home landscape. Smaller varieties available; Zone 5. Bottlebrush buckeye (Aesculus parviflora): Part shade to full sun; neutral to slightly acid soil; giant white “bottlebrush” panicles in summer; interestingly shaped golden fruits and yellow fall foliage; 8 feet to 12 feet; Zone 4. Saskatoon serviceberry (Amelanchier alnifolia): Light shade to full sun; neutral to acid soil; white flowers in midspring; delicious purple berries in summer; yellow to red fall foliage; 3 feet to 18 feet; Zone 4. Summersweet (Clethra alnifolia): Part shade to full sun; moist, acid soil; richly fragrant white flowers in late summer; pale yellow fall foliage; 3 feet to 15 feet; Zone 3.Oregon grapeholly (Mahonia aquifolium): Part shade to full sun; neutral to acid soil; yellow flowers in midspring; icy-blue berries in late summer; evergreen foliage is reddish-bronze in fall and winter; 3 feet to 6 feet; Zone 4. Japanese pieris (Pieris japonica): Part shade to full sun; moist, acid soil; white flow-

ers hang in star-shaped bunches, bright redbronze-colored new leaves in early spring; evergreen foliage; 9 feet to 12 feet; Zone 5. Arrowwood (Viburnum dentatum): Part shade to full sun; moist soil; adaptable to different soil pH; creamy white flowers in late spring; shiny deep green summer foliage; blue fruit and red fall foliage; 6 feet to 8 feet; Zone 2. Match the shrub’s light requirements to your landscape’s conditions. Most of these shrubs need moist soil, but growing under taller tree canopies they’ll get less water and will have to compete with the trees for it. Give the shrubs a soaking of 1 to 2 inches of water every week for about six weeks, and then do this every other week until they’re established. Then leave them alone. Use a soaker hose or drip irrigation to let the water seep slowly and deeply into the soil over

several hours. If your yard is so deeply shaded that nothing seems to grow, consider thinning the canopy of trees. A well-trained young tree won’t need much thinning. But if you have mature trees that didn’t get much early “education,” find a professional arborist to thin them. A good one will be certified by the International Society of Arboriculture. Its website has a search feature to find services with certified staff members. Go to www.isa-arbor.com, and click on the “Public Outreach” link. The solid old standby shrubs are tried-andtrue shady landscape staples -- predictable and unsurprising. But when you mix in a few multiseason shrubs with their flowers, bright foliage, fall color and winter interest, your shaded, jaded outlook will get a burst of new enthusiasm.

Blue River plan noted for nostalgic features

ts Craftsman-style front dormer, handrailed front porch, tapered columns and porte cochere all add to the nostalgic charm of the Blue River. This two-story Craftsman bungalow would be equally at home in a suburban neighborhood or a retreat setting. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s easy to imagine relaxing on the porch in summer, sipping iced drinks, chatting with friends, or waving to neighbors passing by. Soft light spills into the vaulted foyer through sidelights and glass near the top of the Craftsman door. The stairway that angles up the right wall leads to three bedrooms and two bathrooms. Straight ahead is a coat closet, which makes good use of the under-stair space. Family living areas fill the main floor. A wide opening on the left side of the foyer feeds into a large living room with a wide triplex of windows facing the porch, and two standardsized windows arrayed along the other outside wall. Slender wall segments mark the juncture of the living room and dining room. The dining area is also naturally bright, due to matched windows that flank its gas fireplace. An opening on the opposite wall provides access to a convenient powder room, and a good-sized hobby room, or home office, windowed on two sides. A pocket door in the hobby room opens into a utility room, fully outfitted with a utility tub and a wide folding counter. Another door leads out to the porte cochere. A second set of slender wall segments marks where the Blue Riverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dining room segues into the C-shaped kitchen. A conversation bar rims one side of its central work island. The roomy and partially recessed walkin pantry is next to a door leading out onto a cozy covered patio.

For a review plan, including scaled floor plans, elevations, section and artistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s conception, send $25 to Associated Designs, 1100 Jacobs Dr., Eugene, OR 97402. Please specify the Blue River 30-789 and include a return address when ordering. A catalog featuring more than 550 home plans is available for $15. For more information, call (800) 634-0123, or visit our website at www.AssociatedDesigns.com.

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Marcia Wallace real estate Group | 816.251.1745 Visit our website to take a virtual tour: Marciaw.reeceandnichols.com

lakewood patio hoMe

Beautiful ranch reverse, tranquil setting on scenic Lakewood Oaks Golf Course #6 hole. Nestled on quiet, low traffic culde-sac. Finished lower level. $200,000

pride of ownership

Lee’s Summit -This darling 3BR home is move-in ready! Finished lower leave w/tile floor & plenty of storage. Gorgous treed yard w/lush landscaping, spacious deck & fenced yard. Lovely neighborhood-excellent location! Close to schools! $140,000.

Blue springs

Interior looks just like new! New Carpet, paint, & wood floors throughout. Move - in ready. Large MBR with walk - in closet& private bath. F/ walk-out lower level. All app. stay, new roof. $118,000.

darling raised ranch

This all brick 3BR home is located in a great neighborhood in Independence. Home features newer 30 year roof. Energy efficient heating and cooling and new thermal windows. $112,000

2 hoMes on 5 acres

Park like setting. Each home features an updated open floor plan. Pride of ownership shows here. Property has an 18 hole golf course, swimming pool, gazebo & a 30’x39’ barn. $350,000

Blue springs Villa

Great villa with finished lower level, 2BRs on main level. Great rm w/FP, eat-in kitchen w/ pantry & wood floors, formal dining. Mstr suite w/dbl vanity, tile floors, & w/i closet, 3 full baths. Sun Room! $150,000.

lakewood

2 stry flr plan on a cul-de-sac. 4 bdrms, mstr w/sitting rm, tub, dble vanities & lg w/i closet. Great rm has a frplc & built-in bookcases. Screened in porch. $220,000.

Blue springs schools

Newer beautiful townhome Open floor plan with fp & walk-out bsmt. MBR has large walk-in closet & vaulted ceiling. The kitchen features an island, pantry, and all appliances stay with home. $120,000

5616 plantation

like new 2 storY!!

Lg kitchen/hearthroom w/island, FP, SS appliances, & granite counters. Spa like mstr ste w/FP, his/her vanity, wp, & wlk-in shower. Bonus loft area. Wlk-out lower lvl w/12’ ceilings.$300,000.

lee’s suMMit 2 storY

Open floor plan with designer features & colors. Kit. features island, stainless applcs, and pantry. Awesome fin. LL – wet bar, frplc, & theater room! Backyard feels like you’re in the country. $225,000

lakewood/ls schools

Vacation at home! Exquisite home is situated on lg estate lot w/gorgeous inground pool, gazebo w/BA, 2 story solarium w/ blt-in hot tub. The updated kit. features new SS appliances. Updated mst ste w/ FP & lg w/i closet! Fin LL w/ wet bar, family rm, $350,000.

all Brick true ranch!

Fin w/o LL could be 2nd living quarters2nd kitchen, family rm & full bath. 2 car gar, circle drive, fenced yd, & patio, walk-in cedar closet! Newer roof. Quality thruout! $125,000.

serene wooded lot

Beautiful 1.5 story lake front with panoramic vies on cul-de-sac. Quality throughout! Large finished lower level with builtins, & fireplace. Side entry 3-car garage. $325,000.

4612 dick howser

The Falls at Lakewood-Luxurious Grand Villa with panoramic lake views-Exceptional detail thru out. Fully equipped kit w/ state of art appliances, island, walk-in pantry, granite. Fin walk-out w/ fam room FP, wet bar, and media center. $895,000

the falls at lakewood

Grand Villa! Priced to sell – this lakefront villa has upgrades galore. Open floor plan, soaring ceilings, 4 fireplaces, 3 car garage, finished walkout lower level. Beautiful veranda overlooking lake. $650,000.

raYMore/peculiar

Open & Spacious 4BR Home with tons of upgrades!! Awesome kitchen with stainless steel appliances, breakfast bar and wood floors. Large master with 2 walk-in closets, wp & access to laundry! Fin LL w/ Family rm and 4th Bdrm and full bath. $187,900

700 silVerleaf

Lakewood! This spacious 1 1/2 story is move in ready! Mn flr MBR w/dbl vanity & wp. Kit/hearth w/fp, island, & wood floors. Huge bdrm w/walk-in closets; possible 2nd master bedroom! Awesome walk-out ll w/2nd kit. $290,000

oaks ridge Meadows

Spacious 2 story w/4 bd on a treed, fenced lot. Kitchen has built-in hutch, pantry, & breakfast bar. Master suite with sitting room, walk-in closet, & whirlpool tub. Finished lower level. $240,000

End Unit Condo! This home shows like a model w/designer colors, updated fixtures & flooring. Huge bdrms w/ walk-in closets & private baths. Move-in ready! Conveniently located near major interstates, shopping, neighborhood park, & walking trails. $105,000

lakewood

Spacious 1.5 story home with 5 bedrooms and 3.5 baths. Traditional floor plan with large bedrooms and 2 fireplaces, just needs some updating. Finished walk-out lower level with fireplace and wet bar. Lake views from the deck, treed backyard. $259,000

ls address/Bs schools

Incredible Wellington 2 story w/4 BRs & 4.5 BAs. Beautiful kitchen/hearth w/see thru FP & kitchen isl. Bonus loft/craft room or office on bedroom level. Awesome finished lower level. $315,000.

grain ValleY

Darling 3 bdrm, 2 bath home. Situated on corner lot w/3 car garage. Open floor plan w/vaulted ceilings, large kitchen w/in pantry and island. Incredible finished lower level! $167,000.

creekMoor Villa

This home is situated across the street from the golf course! Beautiful kitchen with huge walk-in pantry and island. Master suite has all the amenities. Outstanding lower level with fireplace, bar, and stereo system. Covered deck, sprinkler system, and 3 car garage. $275,000

Maintenance proVided Villa

Fairfield Woods Model now for sale. French Country Villa with quality features throughout. All stucco, 50 year timerline roof. Open Sat and Sun 1-5 p.m.

600 lakepointe

eXQuisite Mediterranean estate

roYal View Meadows

Situated on golf course. Private treed lot with 3 deck/patio areas and circle drive. Spacious floor plan with soaring ceilings. Beautiful kitchen with slate, granite and stainless steel appliances. $600,000

New 2 bdrm ranch duplex w/2 car garage. Up to the moment decor, Friese carpet, gorgeous decorator colors, & fantastic cabinetry. Maintenance provided. Prices starting at $136,500.

lakewood lakefront Gorgeous lakefront- pride of ownership shows! Updated kit w/island, granite counters. Fin w/o ll w/ fam rm,l bath, & FP. Large deck & paver patio. Newer roof. $475,000

Open floor plan with tons of extras! Spacious kitchen with granite counters, breakfast bar & pantry. Master suite with dbl vanity, whirlpool & walk-in closet. Beautiful sun porch off kitchen. Indep. Schools. $237,000.

faBulous 2 storY hoMe!

Lakewood Shores Lakefront-Gorgeous lakefront home w/spectacular views. Totally updated kit/hearth rm w/see-thru FP, granite counters, SS appliances. Beautiful sunroom overlooking the lake. Finished walk-out lower lvl w/exercise rm, office, wetbar. $600,000

independence dollhouse Darling Tudor style home, situated across from Elementary School. Grt rm w/ stone fp. Spacious kit w/ lots of cabinets. Enclosed porch. $110,000

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MeadowBrook Estates

A must see during Spring Parade of Homes By sandy turner

WelcomeHome

s the 2011 Spring Parade of Homes kicked off this week, Realtor Michael Bailey of Reece and Nichols is especially excited about the McBee Custom Homes property in Meadowbrook Estates that is debuting on the tour. The ranch style home at 21413 E. 32nd Terrace in Meadowbrook symbolizes everything McBee Custom Homes has built a successful career on. The home is custom designed to meet the needs of the Bailey family, as it features hardwood floors, five bedrooms, three-anda-half baths, a spaciously open design and a “man-cave” in the basement. “McBee worked

with our ideas and wishes in order to customize the Riverton plan into exactly what we wanted,” says Bailey. “The decision to build a home in Meadowbrook Estates with McBee demonstrates our belief in the quality craftsmanship that I market to potential buyers every day. After comparing to some other local builders, the value and quality that McBee offers was unmatched.” Being the 2010 Grand Award Winner with the first NAHB Certified Green Home, built in Meadowbrook Estates, McBee Custom Homes brings new heights to the standard package when it comes to the extra amenities. “We focus our building techniques and materials on meeting the needs and expec-

tations of our customers,” explains Steve McBee, owner of McBee Custom Homes. “Our homes focus on three aspects: luxury, convenience and value. We take typical upgrades, such as granite, Energy Star Certification, hardwood floors, and our 5 Star Caulk and Foam package, and make them our building standards.” McBee’s high performance homes allow homeowners to enjoy lower utility bills, improved air quality and the satisfaction of knowing they are doing their part to conserve energy. “We know the home building process isn’t limited to the construction of the home,” McBee continues, “that’s why we emphasis customer service. There may be a desire for

customization and/or changes after the construction has begun. We work with our homeowners not only to ensure they are able to make educated decisions, but to be certain they are happy with the process and product.” The plan on tour is the Riverton, a ranch home featuring an open floor plan, granite throughout, hardwood floors, walk-in pantry, wood mantle with stone accented fireplace, finished basement, huge master suite with a walk-in shower and walk-in closet. “I feel confident in telling customers that I truly believe their home values will do nothing but go up, otherwise I would not have built here,” Bailey said. Meadowbrook Estates is located in Independence, but within the Blue Springs School

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District. With 33 lots available in phase 1, the next phase will bring not only more opportunities to build the perfect home but also a community pool, clubhouse, soccer and baseball fields, sand volleyball court, tennis and basketball courts. “My wife and I are excited to begin our family here in Meadowbrook,” Bailey said. “It’s a private, quiet community, yet it’s close to the hub of Independence, Centerpoint Medical Center and easy highway access.” The Spring Parade of Homes began on April 16 and continues through May 1 with homes being open daily from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and admission is free.

Meadowbrook Estates is located two blocks north of Pink Hill on R.D. Mize. 1/2 mile east of Little Blue Parkway on R.D. Mize. I-70 to Little Blue Parkway, north to R.D. Mize, east to Subdivision entrance on left. 291 Highway to Hidden Valley Road, east (past old airport,) follow curve where road turns into RD Mize, to entrance. From Independence Commons, east on 39th Street to Intersection of Pink Hill and RD Mize Road (Casey’s General Store on corner), North to Entrance. Visit McBee Custom Homes at www. mcbeecustomhomes.com for more information or contact the Bailey Home Team at 5034685.

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Why and when you should prune your trees

heritage 816-309-9445

2320 s. grand avenue independence, mo $129,000 All brick Ranch duplex! Each side has a partially finished basement. One car garage with opener with each unit. Both units occupied. Quiet area off 23rd St.

david Wiesemann 816-309-9445

www.davidwiesemann.com

By Jennifer Davis

GateHouse News Service

or Ella Maxwell, a horticulturist and certified arborist at Hoerr Nursery in Peoria, Ill., the greatest sin when it comes to pruning is simple: Not pruning. “People are afraid,” says Maxwell. As pruning procrastinators, we wait until the tree is mature and misshapen before we decide to take our pruning shears or chainsaw to it. “We don’t do it when they’re small; when even if you made a mistake, it would probably grow out of it,” says Maxwell. OK, so we wait too long. The second sin in pruning is a practice called “topping,” which Maxwell says is akin to butchering a tree. “It exposes large wounds that can fail to heal so you can get decay in the tree. The branches that come out as a result of topping are poorly attached. Topping cuts indiscriminately. It’s like cutting off your wrist instead of removing your finger,” says Maxwell. “Trees rely on the resources the leaves manufacture in the summer. You remove so much of the potential food source. Those leaves are gone - it kind of starves the tree as well,” she says.

Topping is only acceptable when it comes to hedges, and then it’s known as shearing. To reduce your workload when it comes to pruning, be selective before you plant. “Why not pick the right plant that you might never have to prune? (Instead), people plant their trees too close together, too close to the house,” she says. There are three reasons to prune. “First, is for plant health. Anytime something is broken, infested, dead, rubbing. You

have to prune after storm damage,” Maxwell says. The second reason to prune is to encourage growth and production. “Fruit trees should be pruned. You need to reduce the number of flowers so you get bigger fruit, or you thin it out so you get better air circulation. You have to prune grapes every year,” she says. Finally, people also prune to achieve a specific shape.

FEATURE HOME OF THE WEEK 6824 N. 131 HIGHWAY ODESSA, MO • 4 bedroom • 2 fireplaces • Finished basement • 19 acres

• 3 full, 1 half bath • Whirlpool tub • Horse facilities • 2 large outbuildings

$850,000 This home marketed by

RE/MAX HERITAGE DAVID WIESEMANN 816-309-9445

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Healthy spring cleaning 101 By Betsy Wadland

GateHouse News Service

his time of year, I open my windows, plant my tomatoes and (finally) put the snow blower away for the season. Watching leaves bud and emerge a light yellowish green color fills me with wonder every year. Of course, for some reason, I also notice the dust and grime that seem to have built up inside my house over the last few months. So, the buckets come out, the gloves go on and my spring-cleaning ritual begins. Spring cleaning is not only good for your soul — well, when it’s done, at least — but it can also be good for your health. Dr. Melissa Conrad Stoppler suggests on MedicineNet. com the following ways to make your home healthier and cleaner this year: When you dust, don’t forget to clean air conditioning and heating filters, ducts and vents to decrease your exposure to pollens and other allergens. • Organize your medicine cabinet and get rid of old or expired medications. • Get rid of old paint, paint thinners, oils, solvents and stains in your garage and basement.

•The same goes for old cleaners under the sink and old batteries. Check with your town about how to dispose of or recycle potentially hazardous materials. • Have your chimney professionally cleaned to reduce your risk of carbon monoxide exposure. • Clean mold and mildew from bathrooms and other damp areas to help prevent allergic reactions. • Make sure the non-skid mats under your area rugs are clean and still prevent the rug from moving. If not, wash or replace them to prevent a fall. • Change the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. •Inspect outdoor playground equipment and decks to be sure they are sturdy and in good repair. Make sure guardrails are secure and nails and bolts are not protruding. • Of course, while you are busy making your home into a haven of health, it’s important to be safe. Hurting yourself while cleaning kind of defeats the purpose, and your friends and family would never let you live down some kind of “cleaning-related injury.” Artemis Coble, a physical therapist with the Natick, Mass., Visiting Nurse Association, says to “take your time and use com-

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mon sense.” Here are more suggestions from Coble: • When you’re lifting something heavy, bend at the knees and keep your feet spread at least hip-width apart. Hold the item close to your body, and if what you’re moving is too heavy to do on your own, wait for help. • Don’t reach up too high; use a stool or ladder. And when you’re on that ladder, don’t lean over too far. A good rule of thumb is that your belly button should not go beyond the sides of the ladder. • Vacuum small square areas at a time. Don’t lean too far forward; just go as far as your arm can easily reach at one time, and then move on to another space.

• Keep walkways and stairs clear of clutter, and always have one hand free to hold the railing on the stairs. If you are carrying something large, be sure you can see over the top of it. • Prolonged repetitive motions, especially those that we don’t do all the time — like washing windows — can cause fatigue and injury. Just do one room at time. • If you get tired, take a break. Sit on a chair if you’re sorting through a bookshelf. Stop for a drink of water or call a friend for a few minutes. As spring arrives, enjoy the warmer air, rejoice in the resurgence of life and make an effort to create a healthy and safe home.

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Giving an old farmhouse a new opportunity to be great By LYNN UNDERWOOD

Minneapolis Star Tribune n THE HOUSE An early-1900s farmhouse on nearly 2 acres in Minnetonka, Minn. n THE CHALLENGE Owners Karla and Jerry Greene, who bought the property in 1988, were attracted to the farmhouse because of its site, charming stonework pillars and the old stone well. But inside, the house was a hodgepodge of substandard remodeling projects. “It felt like it was pieced together when we bought it,” Karla said. The Greenes undertook an initial remodeling, building a French-chateau-style master suite on the back of the house and adding a large screened porch. But the front, with its low ceilings and small, chopped-up rooms, still felt dark and claustrophobic. The kitchen and den were dreary and dated and the family rarely sat in the drafty, cold living room. “The front foyer was so cold that wet gloves would freeze,” said Karla. n GO ALL THE WAY The Greenes hired Tim Oskey of Woodstone Renovation in St. Louis Park, Minn., to determine how they could make the front of the

house more appealing and roomy enough to entertain their large extended family. After assessing the home, Oskey told them it wouldn’t be cost-effective or practical to piece things together. “So we decided to just tear it off and start all over,” Karla said. n THE SOLUTION On the main floor, Oskey, with the help of

Alexander Design Group in Wayzata, Minn., demolished the front section of the home and rebuilt it, adding 12 feet to the footprint in the front and 6 feet on the side. That additional space allowed him to create a great room, an eating area off the kitchen and a front entryway. To give the main floor a more cohesive look, he also remodeled the existing den, dining room and kitchen. On the second floor, Oskey tore off a bedroom to raise the ceiling on the main floor. Then, he built a new bedroom in what had been the attic and updated the existing second-floor rooms. “We kept the charm of the original farmhouse,” said Oskey. “We just moved it out and up.” n STRUCTURAL CHALLENGES Before he built the new section, Oskey had to install proper footings and steel beams. “After 100 years of one mistake built on another, we needed to stabilize the structure,” he said. n FARMHOUSE FLAVOR To give the new addition an old-house aesthetic, Oskey incorporated rich wood trim, coffered ceilings and a massive river-rock fireplace in the new great room. In a nod to the home’s century-old roots, the Greenes display one of the home’s original wood doors by the front entry. n BIGGEST SPLURGE Reclaimed barn-wood beams, which were

nailed across the ceiling of the new eating area and the remodeled kitchen, “give it that Frenchfarmhouse feel,” Karla said. n NEW OLD WORLD KITCHEN Karla designed the European-style kitchen with textural limestone atop a large center island, which was built to look like an old piece of furniture. “It was one of the hardest decisions because we loved the look of limestone but were warned about the maintenance,” she said. n LITTLE ITALY The remodeled den features new windows and an energy-efficient gas fireplace dressed up with an Italian-look stone surround. n CONVENIENCE OVER CRACKLING LOGS The Greenes are glad they put in gas, rather than wood-burning, fireplaces, in the den and great room. “We’re not that strict on the whole farmhouse thing,” Karla said. n LIFE DURING REMODELING The family lived in the basement with a makeshift kitchen for six months. “You get used to workers and commotion every day,” said Karla. “But when it was done, it felt good to be home alone.” n BEST PART “Every room is comfortable and warm, and I can go barefoot in the winter,” Karla said.

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T his& T hat Get organized before the big clean Spring cleaning may seem like a daunting task, but being organized may help things move faster. Create a list of everything that needs to be done, and make sure you have all the cleaning supplies ahead of time. You can also assign smaller, safer tasks to children to make it

a group effort. Be sure to get every nook and cranny to ensure that this head-to-toe cleaning spree is only necessary once or twice a year.

– DoItYourself.com Home-Selling Tip: Keep light in mind Natural light and artificial light reflect off

paint differently. When choosing a color to paint with, look for a light reflective value, or LRV, of 50 percent or higher for interior use. When choosing a light bulb for interior lighting, look for a color ranking index, or CRI, of 80 to 85 percent. – EnergizedSeller.com painting you lawn can mean less water, upkeep Are you tired of the amount of work it takes to

maintain a lush, green lawn? An inexpensive alternative is lawn painting. Using vegetable-based dyes, lawn painting lasts about three months and costs around $200. It requires less watering and less upkeep than real grass. It’s especially beneficial for homeowners in arid climates like Arizona, and homeowner associations may find it an ideal alternative to expensive synthetic turf.

– ConsumerReports.org

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This nice ranch has 1215 sq.ft! Large bedrooms. French doors from country kitchen out to 12x24 covered deck. Fenced yard backs up to Mill Creek Park. KATHY LIGGETT 816-616-4273

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Keeping a healthy lawn can make neighbors happy

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omeowners all over the country take great pride in their lawns. But did you know that a healthy lawn can reduce allergens, increase neighborhood home values and reduce runoff in your area? Yes, a healthy lawn may look pretty, but here’s what else it can offer: Reducing allergies. Of all Americans who are allergic to pollen-producing plants, 75 percent are allergic to ragweed. While a single ragweed plant may only live for one season, it produces up to one billion pollen grains during that time. A well-maintained lawn can help limit the amount of ragweed in the local air. Boosting your real estate value. A study conducted by Virginia Tech University estimated that attractive landscaping can increase the value of a home 5 to 11 percent, depending on location. It was also reported that most landscape investments are fully recovered and sometimes doubled by increased home values.

Reducing soil erosion. Healthy grass holds soil in place and prevents runoff from being washed into lakes, rivers and streams. The University of Minnesota released results of a research study showing a lawn that is not fertilized actually has more runoff than a lawn that is properly fertilized because the grass is healthier. How to maintain a healthy lawn Two elements of good lawn health are proper pesticide use when necessary and proper fertilizer use to ensure the grass has the nutrients it needs to thrive. A properly fertilized, healthy lawn helps prevent weeds, while pesticides control weed populations already present. Proper pesticide use also keeps grubs and insects at bay. To get more information on the benefits of a healthy lawn, visit www.DebugTheMyths.com.

– From Gatehouse News Service

Heritage Farms Retirement Community Strives to Promote Health & Wellness Supports Independence | Enhances quality of Life

Located in Blue Springs at 410 SW Woods Chapel Road Uniquely designed for today’s senior, Heritage Farms is a beautiful gated community for adults seeking a maintenance free lifestyle in an upscale setting. Independent living with added services gives its residents peace of mind knowing that the place they call home, can be for a long time.

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Tune in to KCXL 1140 AM radio every Monday from noon to 1 pm for Home Sweet Home with Kelly Sloan. Live broadcast, real estate shop talk. Call in questions are welcomed and encouraged at 816-792-1140. Cell phone users, call 816-883-2133 or listen at www.kcxl.com

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This New Home subdivision features homes starting in the 240s. McBee Custom Homes, the 2010 Grand Award Winner, sets the standard for quality home building. All homes built will be Energy Star Certified and have extraordinary amenities, to include: Granite, Hardwood Floors, High Ceilings, Five Star Caulk and Foam Package, 9’ Foundation Walls, and much more. Choose from one of McBee’s floor plans or allow them to custom build your dream home. The Model Home, 21513 E. 32nd Terrace, is CONVENIENTLY LOCATED 1/2 mile East of Little Blue Parkway on R.D. Mize Rd.

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tips&tricks

EPA warns of banned pesticide

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is warning consumers about risks associated with a banned pesticide in an ant-control product that they were able to purchase online at www. FastPestControl.com. The product, Fast Ant Bait, contained mirex, a pesticide that was banned in 1978 because it can cause liver, skin, reproductive and nerve damage. “When EPA takes a pesticide off the market, it means that pesticide was not safe. Consumers should use only EPA-registered pesticides and always follow the label directions to ensure their safety,” said Steve Owens, assistant administrator for EPA’s Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention.

– From the University of Illinois Extension

Choosing a Garden Hose There are choices in garden hoses you should consider before picking one out. First, there are three standard lengths: 25 feet, 50 feet and 100 feet. The 50-footer is most popular. There are also three diameters to choose from, 1/2, 5/8 and 3/4 inches. Five-eighths is the most widely used. Hoses are made of three different types of materials, vinyl, rubber and nylonreinforced vinyl. The latter is the most popular. So, you have three lengths, three diameters and three types to choose from, the most popular one being the 50-foot, 5/8-inch nylon-reinforced vinyl model. By just increasing the diameter to 3/4”, you can move six percent more water.

– From www.onthehouse.com

Pretty Good Ideas

Mission Tubular Skylights

There is a new source of natural light that’s cheaper to install than windows or skylights and goes in without major structural changes to roofs, ceilings or walls. It can be put into place in two hours or less. It’s beautiful, high-tech and energy-efficient. It’s a tubular skylight, and it was first seen in Australia more than 10 years ago where it became a No.1 seller with homeowners down under. Then it began to spread. First to Europe, where skylights are big. Now it’s invading our shores. You’ll see a clear-bubble dome on the roof that gathers natural light and transfers it down a highly polished 10-inch round pipe, taking it around tricky twists and turns, to a ceiling diffuser panel that is the proverbial “light at the end of the tunnel.” It’s an awesome new force in both new homes and remodeling.

– From www.onthehouse.com

welcomehome REALTORS

Looking to buy or sell? There's no place like home, Home Sweet Home Realty. We discount the listing percentage, never charge additional broker, transaction or administrative fees to buyers or sellers, advertise aggressively on the internet, print and radio and flat out, we just work dang hard! We're worth checking out! www.hshrealty.com or kellysloan.com Home Sweet Home Realty 816-808-4000

SERIOUSLY! nearly 30 houses in 6 months SOLD!!! CHECK out why there's no place like home! Real people, real results, Home Sweet Home Realty 816-808-4000

Turn your Monday frown upside down and join us, Mondays, noon to one on 1140 AM, KCXL for all your real estate, loan questions. Do you have a home improvement business? Shout it out on the air!! We're live every Monday and encourage your phone calls! Hot line is 816-792-1140. There's No Place Like Home, Home Sweet Home Realty. 816-808-4000

HOMES FOR SALE INDEP./SUGAR CRK C.O.D. COME ON DOWN! Cottage/Ranch. Downsizing? Need everything on same level? Thermo windows and vinyl Siding. Two bedroom charmer. Only $31,000. Dan O'Neil 816-786-0317/503-4668 REECE & NICHOLS EASTLAND

HOMES FOR SALE

INDEP./SUGAR CRK

BLUE SPRINGS

LIKE NEW! GREAT PRICE! Four bedrooms and two full and one half baths. Three car garage. Great location! New roof. Owner will consider lease/purchase. $185,000. Rhonda Dykal 816-522-1124/503-4615 REECE & NICHOLS EASTLAND

MOVE IN READY RANCH On quiet cul-de-sac in established neighborhood, new paint, custom tile work and finished basement - VERY NICE! CHRISTINA BROWN 816-896-8916 www.TheBrown TeamCan.com Reece & Nichols

OWNERS WILL DEAL! Brick and vinyl with replacement windows. Three bedrooms and two full baths. Deck. Fenced yard. Finished basement. Barbara Bridgforth 816-898-3043/503-4626 REECE & NICHOLS EASTLAND

Vinyl windows & siding make outside maintenance easy. Newer roof and hardwoods throughout. Extra living in lower level. $60,000. MARY JO WILSON 816-655-6587 Reece & Nichols

A VERY SPECIAL RANCH New energy efficient upgrades! New concrete outside, updated inside, 3BR, 2BA, walkout basement, tranquil view, SPECIAL! Told you so. ROSE CASEY-GREEN 816-655-6545 www.rosetherealtor. com Reece & Nichols

Beautifully Remolded 1.5 story townhome. Lake side. Open and spacious. Vaulted ceiling and skylights in great room with fireplace. Too much to mention. Call me for further details. Bruce Wayne 816-918-0302/373-9292 Reece & Nichols

CHARMING HOME

Lots of fresh paint inside and out. Large living room walks out to a large yard & deck. Great for entertaining. 3 bdrms/1 bath with double vanities. SANTA FE AREA Jane Mclain This cute starter home has 816-289-0293 lots of updates including Reece & Nichols thermal window, new roof and new carpet. Basement is full and dry…great for play room. Call or text for showing. Jennifer 699-0619. Kathy Liggett 816-616-4273/503-4637 REECE & NICHOLS DON'T MISS THIS EASTLAND

GREAT BUY!

Wow! New $69K price!!!

COZY INDEPENDENCE RANCH

Few blocks North of 23rd & 291 Hwy off Sunset. Over half acre, darling 2 bdrm w/ 2 liv rooms, one w/ FP. Home in great shape, new roof, hardwoods, fenced portion of back yrd perfect for dogs. No neighbors on one side and in back. Really cute, great, private location. MLS #1692838. Home Sweet Home Realty 816-808-4000

Spacious 4 bedroom, 1.5 story. 3.5 baths, den/office, formal dining, eat-in kitchen. Great room + 2nd flr media room. 3 car garage. This is a short sale. The Groves Team 816-655-6515 Reece & Nichols MOVE IN READY IN BLUE SPRINGS Really roomy, clean and neat. Daylight finished basement, tons of updates: tile, roof. Great price $112,500. PAT & BRUCE CARLSON 816-665-1371 Reece & Nichols

New on the market brick Home! This is a great raised ranch! Brick front, newer paint, carpet, garage doors, deck, new roof, dry basement & more! Christina Brown www.thebrownteam. com 816-896-8916 Reece & Nichols

HOMES FOR SALE LEE’S SUMMIT

HOMES FOR SALE

RAYTOWN/KC BUCKNER/SIBLEY Cute Ranch in Raytown! Great For First time Buyer or Investor. 3 Bedrooms. Eat-in Kitchen. Laundry in Garage. Large treed REDUCES back yd. Shows greatTHOUSANDS! NOW 60’s $287,350! The Groves Team 4.78 acres (m/l) with 816-210-7113 ranch and lots of extras Reece & Nichols including 2x6 construction! Four car garage plus Out building. Call LIVE ON THE Larry for a private showBOULEVARD! Four plus bedrooms and ing. LARRY LAGRECE two full and one half REECE&NICHOLS baths. Large formal din816-665-3135 ing and eat-in kitchen. Sun Room. Walkout to pool. Pretty picture. Frankie Liebi HOMES FOR SALE 816-353-2940/503-4616 GRAIN VALLEY/OAK GROVE REECE & NICHOLS EASTLAND

OTHER AREAS

A-FRAME BEAUTY! Three car garage. Three plus bedrooms and three full baths. Many new amenities. Ready to enjoy the lake. LOW MAINTENANCE Glenna Lunceford RANCH $99K 816-517-9988/503-4639 Home is in excellent REECE AND NICHOLS shape! 3 bed, 1.5 bath. EASTLAND Lots of updates and clean. 14x17 attached workshop in a great neighborhood. MUST SEE! Steve Adams 816-589-2687 NEW ON MARKET! SteveAdams@ QUAIL MEADOWS Looking for that one of a reeceandnichols.com Reece & Nichols kind home in the perfect neighborhood? This gorgeous 4BR Dutch Colonial presents beautifully on 2.5 acres and backs up to James A. Reed Wildlife Preserve. Attentive maintenance and pride of ownership is evident everywhere. $285,000. Raytown, THE MCGRAW TEAM 4 bdrm RANCH w/ 17 x 22 816-655-6526 ft. master bdrm! mcgrawteam@ reeceandnichols.com Updated kitch, fin marble rec room, privacy Reece and Nichols fence, double deck, way worth checking out! So hard to fnd this much space with this many upgrades for price! $125,000 mls PERFECT HOME FOR YOU! 1717015 Home Sweet Home New carpet, new hardRealty wood floors in the office 816-808-4000 and living room. Very open floor plan. Huge Master Bathroom. HUGE walkout basement. Great backyard. SEASONED WITH LOVE AND CARE! TONS of closet space. Priced Way below tax Charm and character assessment! Call Skippy describes this ranch. Roomy floor plan with Blair at 816-519-6464 or lots of extras. Three Robin Clark Bedrooms and two full 816-200-6513 baths. $175,000 The Clemons Home Dan O'Neill Team 816-786-0317/503-4668 816-200-6513/503-4601 REECE & NICHOLS REECE & NICHOLS EASTLAND EASTLAND

Country living, Richmond.

10 ACRES (M/L) $89,900 Fenced with two ponds. Nice metal barn with three stalls. Three bedrooms and two full baths. New carpeting and vinyl. Barbara Bridgforth 816-898-3043/503-4626 REECE & NICHOLS EASTLAND

Great big house on 4.86 acres, vaulted ceilings, exquisite kitchen, massive walk-out bsmnt. 4 other 3 acre tracts available to build and another 22 acre tract for endless possibilities. Build your own subdivision or just skip the headaches and buy approx 3K sq ft. home. So many extras! Beautiful scenery. Home Sweet Home Realty 816-808-4000

OTHER AREAS

Westwood Longview/ Bennington. Grandview Dollhouse. 17 x 27 ft. liv rm! Formal dining, formal living, granite island, main floor master and laundry...THIS HOME IS GORGEOUS, Massive lote w/ treed back yard, 119K! MLS # 1718954 Home Sweet Home Realty 816-808-4000

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HOMES FOR SALE

With tons of potential off Bell. 3 bedroom, 1 bath Home Sweet Home Realty 816-808-4000

Pleasant Hill 4 bedroom, 2 full bath, 2 story enclosed porch, fenced yard. NICE! $159,000. Home Sweet Home 816-808-4000

WOW! Lone Jack, California Split, $155K! 4 bdrm, 3 full bath w/ finished walk out bsmnt! Main floor laundry, fridge stays. Terrific price! Massive master! Clint's cell 816519-4489. Home Sweet Home Realty, 816-808-4000

Grain Valley BARGAIN! Newer duplex, both sides occupied at $790/mo. so it definitely cash flows at$169K! That's only $85,000 a side! Updated 2 story w/ garages, easy to rent OR live in one, rent other side! Perrrrfect for low interest rate, lower amount down and fabulous future opportunities. Check it out! MLS 1704116. Clint's cell 816519-4489. Home Sweet Home Realty 816-808-4000

JUST REDUCED $10K, 5BR ALL BRICK HUGE price reduction on this beautiful 5BR, 3.5 bath all brick 1.5 story, all on 3.5 acres. For 24 hour recorded info, call 1-888-203-3708, ext. 02, or visit THagewood.com. Travis Hagewood 816-719-7933 Reece & Nichols

HOMES FOR SALE OTHER AREAS

Lotawana 1st tier with covered well dock. 22,064 square feet gorgeous! $259,000 Home Sweet Home 816-808-4000

Choosing a home is one of the most important decisions.

Call a local Realtor to help you today!

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HEARTLAND REALTORS

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816-373-8400 VISIT US ONLINE AT

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MAINTENANCE FREE LIVING! RANCH ON 1 BEAUTIFUL ACRE

COUNTRY LIVING IN THE CITY...2+ ACRES

Peaceful acreage with room for your horse too! Very clean 1,500+ sq. ft. home with dry basement, main floor laundry, 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths. Newer roof, furnace & a/c! $145,000. 821 S. Jones Road. See photos: www.LindaPringle.com

JUDY ENGLE 816-589-8933 LINDA PRINGLE 816-807-2428

Nice 3 bedroom home on park-like setting. Newer furnace, A/C. Dry walk-out basement. Seller wants offer. Easy to show, call me today! BILL VINYARD 816-200-6785

Like new maintenance provided townhome in Lee’s Summit. Minutes away from shopping and entertainment. For additional information or to tour this property, call...

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LAKE FRONT! 5 CAR GARAGE! $350K Located in a quiet cove with great lake views. Boat dock! Fin. walk-out basement with 4th BR and Bath, Loft bdrm. REDUCED $50,000! Open Sundays 1 to 4. DENNIS HOEHN 816-588-1697 www.dennishoehn.net

3 BEDROOM, 2 BATH, 2300+ SQ. FT. INDEP. CONDO – NO STEPS! Nearly spotless w/new carpet and paint plus 35 ft. deck overlooking pond for $120K! View more photos at www.RachelHarrington.com RACHEL HARRINGTON 816-529-4301

BEAUTIFUL 2.5 ACRE ESTATE! Great room w/fireplace, kitchen & dining w/ hrdwd floors, oak china cabinet & pantry, 3 season sunroom, large walk-in closets. Recorded info – 24 Hours 1-800-808-5509, ID #1596 JOHN COVERT 816-478-9555

NICE 2 STORY! 4 BEDROOMS!

GOT BIG FURNITURE?

This house can handle it. 2 living areas, 2 frplcs, spacious master suite with tub/shower combo. Truman Schools, $120K. Tericartwright.com/ks1722749. TERI CARTWRIGHT 816-285-8828

Great wood floors. Open floor plan! Huge master suite, jacuzzi tub, walkin closet. 4th bedroom has a bonus area space. Corner lot! $238,900 DENNIS HOEHN 816-588-1697 www.dennishoehn.net

Independence Square beauty. $147,000. Taxes only $802. WOW! New roof, vinyl siding 24x15 liv. rm. 17x12 Master suite. 22x15 famly room. Awesome kitchen. More pictures at ronvanfleet.com/KS1723286 RON VAN FLEET 816-721-4048 www.ronvanfleet.com

DON’T COMPARE THIS TO OTHERS!

Beautiful hardwood floors in kitchen, living room and finished family room. Sets on private cul de sac. Recorded info – 24 Hours 1-800-808-5509, ID #1816 ANITA COVERT 816-478-9555

4 BEDS + 2 FULL BATHS...$69,900

Seller will pay your closing costs! Move-in ready with fresh paint, carpet, appliances, & brand new master suite! See photos: www.LindaPringle.com LINDA PRINGLE 816-807-2428

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