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Relocating In Kansas City 2011
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We Will Exceed Your Expectations! THE MULLER � 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 TEAM � 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: firstname.lastname@example.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 L C L 26 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE 913.432.7123 | 913.205.5255 | email@example.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 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 " F e a t h e r Y o u r N e s t " 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 email@example.com and, depending upon the time of request, we'll accommodate your needs ... or write to Teresa Mayberry, circulation 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 11272 S. RIDGEVIEW JUST SOUTH OF O L AT H E , K S ON C O L L E G E B L V D . ( 1 1 1 T H S T. ) RIDGEVIEW T HURS . 10-7 C LOSED S UN . & M ON . HOW TO REACH US For advertising and subscription information: 913.648.5757 By Fax: 913.648.5783 Publisher: firstname.lastname@example.com Editorial: email@example.com Circulation: firstname.lastname@example.com Art Department: firstname.lastname@example.com Advertising: email@example.com Mailing & Physical Address: 4121 W. 83rd St., Ste. 110, Prairie Village, KS 66208 Unique " Featherings for your Home and Garden " ON THE COVER: Welcome Home! Kick back and relax at Falcon Valley Photography by James Maidhof 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY � 13 I N K A N S A S C I T Y 28 64 76 C O N T E N T S 88 16 18 20 22 24 26 28 30 34 38 A Kansas City State of Mind Numbers You Need Kansas City Metro Area Map 10 Places to Go in Kansas City Community Spotlight: Falcon Valley Making the Move The State(s) of Business Finding a New Job Stretching Your Dollar The Counties of Kansas City 42 46 50 56 58 60 64 66 74 22 Growing Cities The Best Established Neighborhoods Your New Home Community Guide Maintenance-Provided Communities Lofts, Condos and Urban Living Your Kansas City Rental Guide Back to School Good School Guide Finding the Right Day Care 76 80 82 84 88 90 92 96 100 Going for the Greens Retail Therapy Hospital Hunting Alternative Health Care Moving Your Pets Money Matters Home Advantage 96 Building Your Dream Home Redesigning Your Style 14 � 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY E d i t o r 's M e s s a g e | I N K A N S A S C I T Y By Andrea Darr How one of the last places you thought you'd live will become the first place you'll never want to leave. I 've often heard of Kansas and Missouri (and the Midwest in general) as the "fly-over" states. As in, there's nothing worth stopping for in between the east and west coasts, so keep the an easy-to-navigate airport, myriad housing options, top schools, exceptional dining establishments, fabulous shopping, and beautiful parks and boulevards. I'm not saying our rosy city doesn't have a thorn or two. Unfortunately, we are one of the fatter cities in America; we have a largely underused public transportation system (we love the freedom of our cars!); we're ranked No. 1 among the 100 largest metropolitan areas for airborne pollen and mold spores; and we're not exactly trendsetters. Things happen on the coasts and eventually make their way inward to us. 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 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! plane going. Having lived in Kansas City my whole life, I think relocators are in for a pleasant surprise. At the heart of this great country, the people make the place. Some of the most famous faces hailing from our borders include President Harry Truman, actress Ginger Rogers and golfer Tom Watson, to name a few. "I think once you spend a little time here, you'll feel at home. Welcome to Kansas City!" 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 Photo courtesy of Wallstreet Towers I N K A N S A S C I T Y Numbers You Need electric MANY PARTS OF THE METRO AREA Black Hills Energy: 888/890-5554 or www.blackhillsenergy.com Kansas City Power & Light: 816/471-5275 or www.kcpl.com Westar Energy: 800/383-1183 or www.westarenergy.com KANSAS CITY, KS Board of Public Utilities: 913/573-9000 or www.bpu.com INDEPENDENCE Independence Power & Light: 816/325-7930 or www.ci.independence.mo.us/pl PLATTE & CLAY COUNTIES Platte-Clay Electric Cooperative: 816/628-3121 or www.pcec.coop trash/recycling GREATER KANSAS CITY AREA Allied Waste: 816/254-1470 or www.kc.disposal.com Deffenbaugh Industries: 913/631-3300 or www.deffenbaughindustries.com Hickman Disposal Service: 913/831-2072 or www.hickmandisposal.com high-speed Internet/ digital phone/cable and satellite services (continued) PARTS OF CASS COUNTY, MO Galaxy Cablevision: 800/365-6988 or www.galaxycable.com KCNet: 816/221-4658 or www.kcnet.com People PC: 866/772-6277 or www.peoplepc.com WESTERN WYANDOTTE COUNTY AND DOUGLAS COUNTY, KS Sunflower Broadband: 800/869-1214 or www.sunflowerbroadband.com post office KANSAS CITY METRO AREA 800/275-8777 or www.usps.gov high-speed Internet/ digital phone/cable and satellite services WYANDOTTE COUNTY AND PARTS OF METRO KANSAS; IN MISSOURI PARTS OF CLAY, CASS AND BATES COUNTIES Charter Communications: 888/438-2427 or www.charter.com KANSAS CITY METRO AT&T: 800/331-0500 (phone) 877/722-3755 (DSL) or www.att.com KANSAS CITY METRO AND LEAVENWORTH, KS Time Warner: 816/358-8833, 913/682-2113 or www.timewarnercable.com gas KANSAS CITY, KS AND PORTIONS OF JOHNSON COUNTY Atmos Energy: 888/286-6700 or www.atmosenergy.com JOHNSON COUNTY Kansas Gas Service: 800/794-4780 or www.kgas.com PARTS OF THE METRO United Cities Gas Co.: 866/298-1514 or www.connectutilities.com Black Hills Energy: 888/890-5554 or www.blackhillsenergy.com Atmos Energy: 888/286-6700 or www.atmosenergy.com 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 INDEPENDENCE, PARTS OF CASS, JACKSON AND LAFAYETTE COUNTIES IN MISSOURI, AND OLATHE, KS Comcast: 816/795-1100, 800/266-2278 or www.comcast.com KANSAS CITY METRO CenturyLink: 877/290-5458 or www.centurylink.com DirecTV: 888/777-2454 or www.directv.com Dish Network: 800/823-4929 or www.dishnetwork.com Earthlink: 800/327-8454 or www.earthlink.net SureWest: 913/825-2882 or www.surewest.com PORTIONS OF JOHNSON COUNTY Water District #1 of Johnson County: 913/895-1800 or www.waterone.org KANSAS CITY, MO KCMO Water Services Department: 816/513-1313 or www.kcmo.org/water JOHNSON AND WYANDOTTE COUNTIES IN KANSAS, AND SOUTH AND EASTERN MISSOURI METRO Vonage: 800/980-1455 or www.vonage.com water KANSAS CITY, KS Board of Public Utilities: 913/573-9000 or www.bpu.com 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 archival materials in the world. Photo by Alistair Tutton 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. A 1,600-seat concert hall will host the Kansas City Symphony and performances by other mid-size musical organizations. Along with the center's approximate 285,000 square feet, a 1,000-space parking garage also will become part of the complex. 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 The vibrant eight-block district is a primary revitalizing force for downtown Kansas City, Mo. Think broad streets, open storefronts, boutique retailers, a generous helping of restaurants, a gourmet grocery store and an outdoor performance area. The project features more than half a million square feet of hip and unique retail, restaurants and entertainment. One block of the district features Kansas City Live!, which is designed for music and festivals. 22 � 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY Kansas City Wizards Soccer Stadium The Wizards' new soccer stadium, slated to open summer 2011 in Kansas City, Kan., will be the first soccer stadium in North America to combine attributes of European and South American soccer stadia with modern amenities that American fans love. It joins the Kansas Speedway and the Community America Ballpark at Village West for sports fans. The Bloch Building at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art Acclaimed architect Steven Holl's glass 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. The Bloch Building at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art to the original neoclassical Nelson-Atkins building. Composed of five interconnected structures as opposed to a single massive expansion, the design might be Holl's greatest professional achievement. Opened June 2007, the addition offers new spaces and angles unparalleled by almost any other structure in the Midwest. Though a style departure from the existing structure, the Bloch Building -- named in honor of longtime benefactor and museum trustee, Henry Bloch, and his wife, Marion -- complements renovations to the original museum building, picturesque lawn and sculpture park. exhibition space, the museum offers arts education opportunities for both children and adults. College Basketball Experience and National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame As part of the $276 million Sprint Center, the College Basketball Experience and National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame celebrate the history of men's collegiate basketball. It honors coaches, players and contributors who have made an impact on the game. A museum and interactive adventure alike, visitors are able to work with hands-on exhibits and experience basketball like never before. Schlitterbahn Vacation Village The popular Texas-based water parks opened in Kansas in 2009. The newest addition to the chain continues construction on additional phases on a 370-acre track near Village West in Kansas City, Kan. The water park's first phase includes tubing slides, chutes, rivers, beaches and other unique features like the Storm Blaster, Loopy Luge mat slide and Henry's Hideout. Future phases will include more water rides, River Walk attractions, and shopping, dining and lodging venues. Independence Events Center Home of the Missouri Mavericks hockey team, the center opened in November 2009 as a 5,800-seat, multipurpose arena hosting approximately 100 events a year, including trade shows, festivals, professional sporting events, concerts and community events. There's also a community ice rink within the center. Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art Designed by Cambridge, Mass.-based architect Kyu Sung Woo, the Nerman Museum opened spring 2007 on the Johnson 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 fa�ade. 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 Sprint Center Kansas City is a major hub of sports architecture firms, and four of them 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 amenities like granite countertops, wrought iron spindles, hardwood floors and three-car garages. But, as Ferzandi adds, "We don't have `standard features.' It's about how far you want to go to personalize the home." To get started finding your new dream home, read on to find out about a few of the Falcon Properties. Falcon Valley Falcon Valley continuously garners great press for its award-wining golf course. In the February 2010 issue of Golf World, it was named 14th out of the "25 Best 9-Hole Courses in America." The championship course is only one of many amenities the community provides its 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 to the maintenance crews. A shopping area within walking distance includes an eye doctor, dentist, bank, veterinary clinic, dry cleaners, liquor store, fitness center, tanning salon, grocery store and pharmacy. Located between fairways seven and eight of the Falcon Valley Golf Course, residents still have the beautiful views of the greens and optional use of the pool for a nominal annual fee. Outdoor enthusiasts also will appreciate the City of Lenexa's extensive biking trail that runs nearby. Floor plans include reverse 1.5-story and ranch homes. Prices range from the mid $200,000s to $300,000s. For more information, call 913/780-9699. build at any price point," says onsite agent April Jackson. "With such diversity in price, Falcon Lakes is an opportunity for almost any buyer." Falcon Lakes Villas is a maintenance-provided community, which includes lawn care and snow removal, with homes starting in the low $300,000s and up. The Fairways are built on golf course, walk-out and treed lots and feature a variety of floor plans from the low $300,000s. According to Jackson, it's an excellent price point in a golf course community. In addition to the luxury of home, residents enjoy the luxury of seclusion. Falcon Lakes is located in Basehor, Kan., just 4.5 miles north of I-70 along K-7 at Hollingsworth Road on the west side of K-7. Call 913/724-5400 for details. 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY � 25 I N 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 should. Uprooting your family presents difficulties in every facet of your life, from switching schools and communities He also highly recommends hiring a company with an established record of good service. Word of mouth carries a lot of business in the moving industry, so ask your friends and associates who they've had good experiences with. Brewer warns against going through brokers because they generally don't own the trucks and equipment and will hand off your move to various companies, with no one taking responsibility for your belongings. Bad deals can include low-ball estimates that double by the end of the deal or even theft. Claims with these companies often go nowhere. "Big-name moving companies have a lot invested in trucks and equipment," Brewer says. "We do our best to protect our reputation and give the customer the best service we can." 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. to making new friends and business networks. "Some people are thrilled to be moving to a new place while others just can't stand it," says Garold Brewer, sales manager for Berger Allied Moving Company in Kansas City. It's certainly an adjustment, but the strain can be eased with a positive experience. That starts with your move. The first thing to know is that it's best to hire a company in the city to which you are moving. That company will select a qualified moving coordinator who will be able to help you resolve any problems that arise, such as contesting an item on your bill or submitting a claim for broken china, and deal with them at the local level. Finding a Mover Horror stories about shady movers abound, but the serious players in the moving industry have tried hard to clear their names. You could start with the phone book and look at the ads, but that's just the first step. "Call the Better Business Bureau to make sure they're reputable, and check in both cities, where you're coming from and where you're going," Brewer says. 26 � 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY Getting It Booked & Moved Most reputable companies offer free estimates. "They need to get a visual survey of what items are moving, if there's any packing, or any special needs like crating," Brewer says. A local rep will conduct this interview and work up a price quote. If you hire the moving company to pack your belongings, that will �iStockphoto/Nathan Gleave 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 I N K A N S A S C I T Y The State(s)of Business K ansas City has plenty to offer businesses that want to start, relocate or expand operations. It "And our economy is very diverse," says Ashlie Hand, director of communications for the Kansas City Area Development Council (KCADC). The following is a breakdown of the metro's major industries. Burns & McDonnell has provided engineering, construction, environmental and consulting services to commercial customers since 1898. And, when it comes to going green, BNIM and 360 Architecture are recognized for their sustainable designs and efforts. hosts one of the Midwest's fastest-growing labor markets, with 10 percent growth in the last decade; a workforce that takes fewer sick days than workers in 33 other major metropolitan areas; and five stars from Expansion Management for business health care costs. Employees enjoy a cost of living below the national average, and Expansion Management also has given gold awards to many local school districts, plus blue ribbons to others. MSNBC ranked Kansas City fourth on its top 10 list of underrated U.S. cities because of the downtown renovations, historical landmarks and blues/jazz history, museums, fountains and barbecue. Architecture/Engineering The Kansas City office of Populous (formerly HOK) is part of a network of 500 employees who provide large-venue architecture, like sports arenas. (More than 520 million people have attended a Populous facility in the past 10 years alone.) Other services include master planning and urban design, interior design, facility operations and sustainability. Kansas City-based HNTB Architecture has served clients for nearly 100 years, primarily in aviation, education, corporate and government. Creative Kansas City is second only to Chicago in the size of its advertising community. BernsteinRein, Barkley and Kuhn & Wittenborn are a few of the diverse agencies that serve clients across the nation. But the creativity doesn't end there. Hallmark Corporation has been a fixture in Kansas City since the early 1900s. The company sells half of all greeting cards in the nation. 28 � 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY Photo by Paul Bonnichsen Finance American Century Investments has operated for more than 50 years from its Kansas City headquarters. The company offers information about mutual funds, retirement and college savings for individual investors, asset management for commercial and nonprofit entities, and retirement plans for small businesses. Since its inception, Kansas City's own H&R Block has provided income tax preparation services to more than 24 million clients across the nation. Located in Shawnee, Bayer Animal Health develops drugs for animals, from family pets to livestock and flea prevention to joint disease therapy for horses. The company also is part of the Animal Health Corridor, which accounts for nearly 32 percent of total sales in a $19 billion global market. Companies and universities concentrated in the region lead the nation in all animal-related aspects. resources efficiently across the continent," explains Tim Cowden, senior vice president of business development for KCADC. Kansas City's rail system carries 300 daily freight arrivals and departures. One of the nation's largest railroad companies, BNSF started in Kansas City more than 160 years ago and is now a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway. It has merged nearly 400 different railroad lines; absorbed 34,000 miles of track; and grown to include 38,000 employees, 6,600 locomotives and 220,000 freight cars. "KC offers a unique combination of affordability and accessibility not typically found in a major American city," Cowden says. "While there are many benefits of a Kansas City location, in particular, our region's central location offers business -- regardless of the product or service it provides -- a competitive advantage." Transportation/Distribution The Kansas City International Airport (MCI) ranks the highest in medium-sized airports in all categories by J.D. Power and Associates in 2010. "No U.S. city is more than a three-hour commercial flight away, so KC is a great choice for companies that need to move human Biotech/Animal Health With its world headquarters in Kansas City, Mo., Cerner Corporation provides information technology that supports the health care industry. Top 25 Kansas City Corporations (2010) Company Employees Address Phone Website HCA, Midwest Division Sprint (Hdq.) Saint Luke's Health System Hallmark Cards Inc. (Hdq.) Cerner Corporation (Hdq.) Children's Mercy Hospitals & Clinics University of Kansas United Parcel Service of America, Inc. DST Systems Inc. (Hdq.) Truman Medical Centers AT&T Corp. Ford Motor Company Black & Veatch (Hdq.) KCP&L (Hdq.) Internal Revenue Service KCP&L Alliant Techsystems Inc. Garmin International (Hdq.) Honeywell Fed. Mfg. & Technologies General Motors Corp. Federal Express Corp. Citi Cards Commerce Bank (Hdq.) Burns & McDonnell (Hdq.) CenturyLink Inc. (Formerly Embarq Corporation) SOURCE: THINK KC 8,127 7,300 6,627 6,282 4,812 4,812 4,693 4,646 4,425 4,021 3,710 3,600 3,200 3,200 3,200 3,200 2,600 2,599 2,500 2,479 2,412 2,200 2,145 2,100 2,100 2304 E. Meyer Blvd., Kansas City, MO 64132 6200 Sprint Parkway, Overland Park, KS 66251 10920 Elm Ave., Kansas City, MO 64134 2501 McGee St., Kansas City, MO 64108 2800 Rock Creek Pkwy, N. Kansas City, MO 64117 2401 Gillham Road, Kansas City, MO 64108 230 Strong Hall, Lawrence, KS 66045 14650 Santa Fe Trail Drive, Lenexa, KS 66215 333 W. 11th St., Kansas City, MO 64105 2301 Holmes Road, Kansas City, MO 64108 1100 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106 8121 NE 69 Hwy., Claycomo, MO 64119 11401 Lamar Ave., Overland Park, KS 66211 1201 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106 5800 E. Bannister Road, Kansas City, MO 64131 10700 E. 350 Highway, Raytown, MO 64138 R.R. 7 & Highway 78, Independence, MO 64056 1200 E. 151st St., Olathe, KS 66062 2000 E. 95th St., Kansas City, MO 64131 3201 Fairfax Tfy., Kansas City, KS 66115 8215 W. 108th Terrace, Overland Park, KS 66210 7920 NW 110th St., Kansas City, MO 64153 1000 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106 9400 Ward Pkwy, Kansas City, MO 64114 5454 W. 110th Street, Overland Park, KS 66211 816/751-3000 913/624-3000 816/932-3377 816/274-5111 816/221-1024 816/234-3000 785/864-2700 913/541-3740 816/435-1000 816/404-1000 816/275-9911 816/459-1249 913/458-2000 816/556-2000 816/966-2840 816/556-2200 816/796-5220 913.397-8200 816/997-2000 913/573-7575 913/661-5000 816/505-6536 816/234-2000 816/333-9400 866/591-1964 www.hcamidwest.com www.sprint.com www.saintlukeshealthsystem.org www.hallmark.com www.cerner.com www.childrensmercy.org www.ku.edu www.ups.com www.dstsystems.com www.trumed.org www.att.com www.ford.com www.bv.com www.kcpl.com www.irs.gov www.kcpl.com www.atk.com www.garmin.com www.kcp.com www.gm.com www.fedex.com www.citigroup.com www.commercebank.com www.burnsmcd.com www.centurylink.com 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 and Bayer. hen one family member requirement and probably lack a developed network that is vital to making a change. If you want a change, try working with a temporary employment service to feel it out. Consider taking a temporary job to keep income flowing and skill sets sharpened. It could even become a starting point for a permanent position and help you network at the same time. Volunteering or joining a chamber, church or other community organization also can provide access to a new network of individuals. which have become important social and business resources for networking. Practice your interviewing skills as well. Know how to respond to 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 r�sum� and brush up on your interview skills. �iStockphoto/Sean Locke transfers to a new city, the trailing spouse must find a new job, too. Luckily, Kansas City boasts hundreds of employers, in all sizes, from the KC-headquartered Sprint, Hallmark and H&R Block to pharmaceutical giants Aventis Start the job search online or with local papers like the Kansas City Business Journal and Kansas City Star or business magazine Ingram's. The Kansas City Business Journal 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 networking immediately, and a good place to start is with the company that hired your spouse. They might have useful relationships already established with job recruiters. Employment agencies can be helpful, too, but a recruiter is only a tool to aid in the search. Be leery of those services that charge people to find a job. Contacting more than one recruiter is smart because each one has access to a different job pool. One surprising networking opportunity might be with a company that turns you down for a position. Tell them you're from out of town and would love suggestions. It's a matter of asking the right question, but people usually have a natural inclination to help. Although some use a move to make a career change, Karen Cottengim, senior consultant with Right Management Consultants, says it actually may not be the best time because you will likely have to relax your salary 30 � 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY Selling Yourself Sell yourself to a prospective employer by specifying what you can offer. Doing online research about a company provides invaluable information about its needs. A well-crafted r�sum� reflects your previous job responsibilities and the primary skills you have and it should not have a one-size-fits-all format. Tailor your r�sum� to each individual position you consider. Cottengim suggests developing a 30second commercial, often used in networking meetings or interviews, to help potential employers understand your background and the type of position you are pursuing. The commercial should describe what type of professional you are, your last position/ what you did on the job, your reason for leaving and future focus. You should also sign up at Linkedin.com and facebook.com, Calculating Salary Compare the cost of living in the KC area with the cost of living in the area you are moving from. This, coupled with the new salary of your transferred spouse, can significantly impact what salary a trailing spouse should seek. Salary.com is a good resource for such information. Helpful job-hunting websites www.careerbuilder.com www.headhuntersdirectory.com www.kcjobs.com www.monster.com www.npconnect.org www.kansascity.bizjournals.com www.kansascity.computerwork.com www.kansas-city-jobs.dice.com www.kc.careerlink.com www.kansascityjobforce.com Find special offers and more lighting advice on our website.* BATH LIGHTING? KITCHEN LIGHTING? CEILING FANS? 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. Q: A: 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. 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. 140 to 200 Blade Pitch Conclusion: Everything looks better when the right lighting is placed correctly. The room looks better...and, of course, so will you! Conclusion: Reading recipes and food preparation will be easier and more enjoyable. Less wattage will save energy and keep your kitchen cooler. 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 Independence I-70 & Noland Road Kansas City's Most Recognized Name in Lighting BECKY MOSBY Owner/Designer 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 Call Phil Summerson for RELOCATING? FREE: � Relocation Packet � School Information � Real Estate Information � List of Available Homes � Area Maps 36 Years of Excellent Service 8101 College Blvd., Ste. 100 � Overland Park, Kansas 66210 1-800-684-9907 (913) 393-4565 www.summerson.com e-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com Kansas City's Kitchen, Bathroom and Basement Renovators with a Customer Service Focus NO Hassle NO Worries As Simple as ABC WE GUARANTEE ALL OUR SKILLED TRADESMEN'S WORK. firstname.lastname@example.com ABCRnR.com 913.961.9299 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. active business climate, the metropolitan area is the ideal relocation spot for those who want to have it all without breaking the bank. 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 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 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 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 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 up to the breath-taking promise of their design. Coming soon: GREEN GENERATION HOMES -- modular homes for today DESIGN BUILD TEAM, INC. Visit us at: http://blog.DesignBuildTeam.com Architects and Builders Ph: 913.722.1443 www.DesignBuildTeam.com KCRAR Realtor Salesperson of the Year I N K A N S A S C I T Y Caldwell Clinton Atchison Platte Ray Clay Leavenworth Wyandotte Johnson Jackson Douglas Johnson The Lafayette Franklin Miami Cass Counties of Kansas City KANSAS County County Seat Population Web site Linn Bates Atchison County Douglas County Franklin County Johnson County Leavenworth County Linn County Miami County Wyandotte County Atchison Lawrence Ottawa Olathe Leavenworth Mound City Paola Kansas City 16,481 113,488 26,441 534,093 74,276 9,962 30,900 154,287 www.atchisoncountyks.org www.douglas-county.com www.franklincoks.org www.jocogov.org www.leavenworthcounty.org www.linncountyks.com www.miamicountyks.org www.wycokck.org While every city has its own style, each county within Kansas City boasts its own wonderful and distinct feel. improving highway system links the areas T he Kansas City area continues to spread out in all directions as more people move to the area. An ever- MISSOURI County County Seat Population Web site together, and new residential and commercial developments are closing the gaps between cities and counties. The 18-county region is home to more than two million residents. But even as the roads converge into a tightly woven metropolitan area, each county in it maintains a unique personality. Bates County Caldwell County Cass County Clay County Clinton County Jackson County Johnson County Lafayette County Platte County Ray County Butler Kingston Harrisonville Liberty Plattsburg Independence (1) and Kansas City (2) Warrensburg Lexington Platte City Richmond 17,075 8,969 98,429 228,358 20,683 705,708 50,669 33,134 85,896 23,445 www.batescounty.net www.caldwellcountymissouri.com www.casscounty.com www.claycogov.com N/A www.co.jackson.mo.us www.jococourthouse.com www.lafayettecountymo.com www.co.platte.mo.us N/A 38 � 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY I N K A N S A S C I T Y 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 Photo by Matt Kocourek 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 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 Photo courtesy of Rodrock Development offers an abundance of lakes and water 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. 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. Introducing a `BALANCED LIFE' in Kansas City's Premier Master-Planned Community 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 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; 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. ols ing Po Relax Awar d-W Liber inning ty Sch ools 4 Star Rated - 36 Holes Seven Neighborhoods offering Homes from the $140's to Estates Welcome Kansas City Symphony Homes of Note Tour 2010 Raymore, Mo. Some prefer to live on the Plaza and soak 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 layers of appeal. Paths & Exe rcise Trails Park Water 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 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 Kansas City's "Best Kept Secret" isn't a secret to many __ it's quite a popular choice among the locals. Many residents have grown up in Brookside and are now raising their families in the same area. Multiple subdivisions, including Armour Hills, Astor Place, Morningside, Oak Meyer Garden, Rockhill Gardens, Rockhill Ridge and Tower Homes, comprise the neighborhood, a J.C. Nichols development of the late 1920s. Brookside has a home to fit most lifestyles and comfort levels with distinctly different housing options. Residents enjoy shopping, restaurants, grocery stores and more at their fingertips, plus proximity to the Country Club Plaza, art museums, downtown and the University of Missouri-Kansas City. Neighbors gather frequently for events like the Brookside Art Fair in spring and a St. Patrick's Day warm up parade. styles, such as Prairie School, Victorian and Arts & Crafts. They were not all built by the same builders or even in the same period. The neighborhood association, with about 160 members, keeps residents busy with a full agenda. The homes are affordable and the neighbors are a pleasantly diverse mix of people. Historic Westheight On the National Historic Register since the 1970s, Historic Westheight is deeply rooted in Wyandotte County's Kansas City, Kan. The small but mighty community contains a goldmine of beautiful homes and historic treasures. Developed in the early 20th century, the neighborhood boasts a variety of architectural Hyde Park The century-old Hyde Park has become a hot spot for homebuyers in midtown Kansas City, Mo., with the Country Club Plaza, Westport, Crown Center, River Market and 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 cliffs Hyde Park Lake Quivira Tucked away between rolling, wooded hills is the 900-acre area known as both a community and a city. The gorgeous landscape and access to nearby major cultural and commerce centers relieves the need for residents to leave their homes for a getaway vacation. The private community of well-guarded homes has its own country club, golf course and lake, plus a variety of organized social activities. The 200-acre spring-fed lake is perfect for fishing, sailing, boating and swimming. Other amenities include six tennis courts and an 18-hole golf course. The relaxed, family-oriented environment appeals to young families, retirees and singles alike. The majority of the area is considered Johnson County territory, but the Wyandotte County line runs though one end of the lake, including 17 homes. encompass the quiet community of Lake Lotawana, home to 1,872 residents in eastern Jackson County. Located off I-470 near Lee's Summit and Blue Springs, the beautiful lake community is a mere 30-minute commute to the city. Lake Lotawana, itself, is one of the deepest lakes with some of the clearest water around. Residents experience a full range of activities, including numerous boating groups and a garden club, in this mixed-style neighborhood. The close-knit yet diverse city has its own professional police and fire department and AAA-rated schools. Housing options range widely from one-room cabins to milliondollar estates. Mission Hills Known for excellent schools and magnificent, well-maintained neighborhoods, beautiful Mission Hills is one of Kansas City's most desired, affluent residential areas. Home to approximately 3,500 residents, Mission Hills provides a small-town feel with all the access to the region's entertainment, shopping and dining opportunities. 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 the architecture of the city, and its village size creates an inviting place to live. Westheight 48 � 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY 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 historical markers and shares its backyard with Loose Park. The park isn't the only source of foliage in the area __ all of the yards are well-manicured with bushes and mature trees, which make residents forget they're only a few steps from the hustle and bustle of the Country Club Plaza. Because of the hilly terrain, each lot differs from its neighbor, resulting in unique designs and giving the neighborhood a mix of great architecture. No two homes are alike. Lake Quivira Union Hill City living is at its best in this well-kept enclave comprising both older and newer homes. Union Hill is divided into two sections: older, single-family homes built around the turn of the century and newer loft and condo projects. Seemingly untouched by time, the older Victorian homes feature much architectural detail with contrasting materials, decorative shingles, stained glass, carved stone, and a variety of window shapes and sizes. The area's newcomers, including Gillham Row and The Founders at Union Hill, offer more contemporary features. Some older townhomes feature maintenance-provided amenities like lawn care. The neighborhood association hosts 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 KANSAS UNDER $300,000 Austin Meadows Arbor Ridge Brighton's Landing Brittany Ridge Brookwood Farms / pg. 54 Cedar Ridge Cedar Ridge Park / pg. 17 Clearwater Creek Delaware Ridge Dorset Village at Manchester Park / pg. 17 The Estates of Connor Creek The Estates of Wolf Creek Fallbrook Gleason Glen Holly Ridge Maple Brook Park / pg. 17 The Meadows of Forest Hill The Meadows of Forest View / pg. 17 Mission Cliffs Nottingham Creek Oak Run Meadows Piper, The Highlands Raven Crest Ravenwood Place Saddlebrook of Cedar Ridge Park Sweetwater Creek Whispering Ridge Willow Springs Windsor Hills Woodland Manor Olathe DeSoto Olathe Shawnee Spring Hill Bonner Springs Olathe Olathe Kansas City Lenexa Piper Spring Hill Olathe Lenexa Overland Park Olathe Olathe Olathe Kansas City Olathe Olathe Piper Olathe Olathe Olathe Spring Hill Piper Gardner Overland Park Olathe $150,000s+ $180,000s-$220,000s $210,000s+ $200,000s $190,000s+ $200,000-$300,000 $220,000-$300,000s $200,000s-$250,000s $120,000s-$200,000s $265,000-$340,000 $200,000-$300,000 low $200,000s+ $200,000s $230,000+ $230,000s $210,000s+ $215,000-upper $200,000s $290,000s+ $220,000-$325,000 $200,000s-$400,000s $155,000+ $130,000-$190,000+ $210,000-$300,000 $210,000-$290,000 $260,000+ $280,000s+ $150,000-$450,000 $150,000s+ $235,000-$500,000+ $260,000s-$400,000 913/764-7401 913/219-9365 913/782-0075 913/634-6604 913/686-4738 913/449-4045 913/829-5813 913/488-2368 913/400-7225 913/390-7900 913/593-5569 913/592-3633 913/383-1800 913/871-4148 913/205-9444 913/254-0058 913/592-2226 913/254-1002 913/484-5946 913/592-2828 913/856-8010 913/219-9365 913/634-2724 913/906-5417 913/829-5813 913/592-4555 816/228-1188 816/214-2191 913/906-5417 913/522-7356 Olathe DeSoto Olathe DeSoto Spring Hill Bonner Springs Spring Hill Olathe Bonner Springs Olathe Piper Spring Hill Olathe Desoto Blue Valley Olathe Spring Hill Olathe Kansas City Spring Hill Olathe Piper Olathe Olathe Spring Hill Spring Hill Piper Gardner Blue Valley Olathe KANSAS OVER $300,000 Ashford Villas Avignon Village Bristol Ridge Canyon Creek Cedar Creek / pgs. 2-3 Coffee Creek Crossing Olathe Olathe Lenexa Lenexa Olathe Overland Park $300,000s-$400,000s $310,000s-$360,000s $400,000s-$800,000s $370,000-$900,000 $350,000-$2 million+ $400,000-$700,000 913/647-5700 913/254-0279 913/647-5775 913/441-8998 913/829-6500 913/897-9666 Blue Valley Olathe DeSoto Olathe Olathe/DeSoto Blue Valley LISTINGS CONTINUED ON PAGE 52 50 � 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY ANOTHER ONE OF KANSAS CITY'S FINEST BACKYARDS P O O L 8026 WEST 151ST. ST. (913) Banks Blue Valley & There's a good reason Banks Pool & Spa is the custom inground pool builder in Kansas City... EXCELLENCE. Each and every pool we build is done as if it were our own. A concrete pool that both of us can be proud of. At Banks Pool & Spa we utilize the latest techniques, the same methods as the worlds best. Every pool is guaranteed. Call us today for more information. You have our assurance that if you choose Banks, your pool will be perfect. M E M B E R S P A OVERLAND PARK, KS 66223 or (816) 897-9290 942-2459 NATIONAL SPA & POOL INSTITUTE Home Builders Association of Greater Kansas City 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY � 51 NEIGHBORHOOD LOCATION PRICE RANGE PHONE NUMBER SCHOOL DISTRICT College Meadows Cross Pointe Daybreak Ridge Deerbrook Estates Deer Valley / pg. 21 Eagle View of Grey Oaks Enclave at Woodland Lakes The Estates at Forest View / pg. 17 Fairfield at Heritage Park Falcon Lakes / pg. 47 Falcon Ridge Estates / pg. 47 Falcon Valley / pg. 47 Granite Falls / pg. 51 Grey Oaks / pg. 17 Hallbrook Farms Hallbrook Village Highlands Creek Highlands of Kensington The Hills of Forest View / pg. 17 LakeShore Estates Leabrooke Highlands Linden Place Mills Farm, The Estates of / pg. 61 Mills Farm, The Manor of / pg. 61 Mills Farm, The Meadows of / pg. 61 Old Leawood, The Estates of Park Estates of Leabrooke Patrician Village Prairie Brook / pg. 21 Prairie Point / pg. 21 Polo Fields The Preserve at Clear Creek Quail Park Villas Ridgestone Meadows Rockwood Falls / pg. 15 Stonebridge Court SummerWood Estates Tallgrass at Wilderness Valley / pg. 21 The Timbers at Clear Creek The Village of Tuscany Reserve WatersEdge Wilshire Farms Wyngate Woodland Reserve The Woods of Colton Lakes Olathe Shawnee Overland Park Overland Park Overland Park Shawnee Lenexa Olathe Olathe Basehor Lenexa Lenexa Shawnee Shawnee Leawood Leawood Leawood Olathe Olathe Overland Park Leawood Leawood Overland Park Overland Park Overland Park Leawood Leawood Lenexa Olathe Olathe Overland Park Shawnee Olathe Shawnee Spring Hill Overland Park Overland Park Overland Park Lenexa Leawood Overland Park Overland Park Overland Park Lenexa Overland Park $300,000+ $300,000s-$699,950 $790,000+ $700,000-$1 million mid $300,000s-$500,000s $400,000+ $550,000+ $400,000s-$650,000 $330,000-$400,000s $300,000-$400,000+ $700,000s-$2 million $300,000-$700,000 $300,000s-$600,000s $250,000s-$600,000s $600,000s-$3.5 million $600,000s-$2.2 million $1 million+ $400,000s-$600,000s $340,000s+ $500,000s-$1 million $400,000s-$600,000s $400,000-$700,000 $800,000s-$2 million+ $500,000s+ $400,000s+ $1.2 million+ $500,000s+ $300,000s-$450,000s $300,000s+ $300,000s+ $400,000s-$800,000s $400,000s-$700,000s $370,000-$379,000 $300,000-$500,000+ $365,000-$2 million $300,000s+ $700,000s-$1 million+ $600,000+ $300,000s-$450,000 $600,000-$1.2 million mid $500,000s+ $300,000-$1 million+ $500,000s+ $450,000-$1 million+ $700,000s-$1million 913/208-4386 913/962-0666 913/661-8500 913/897-1000 913/685-4010 913/522-6959 816/210-8787 913/254-1000 913/768-4800 913/724-5400 913/780-9000 913/764-7838 913/268-4407 913/441-4111 913/345-8877 913/345-8877 913/814-7999 913/897-9662 913/254-1188 913/530-1096 913/814-9918 913/663-2616 913/239-8799 913/239-8799 913/239-8799 913/642-3400 913/814-9919 913/393-4999 913/764-7007 913/685-4010 913/681-1004 913/721-3550 913/387-0188 913/422-5151 816/589-6960 913/387-0188 913/945-3700 913/831-3388 913/647-5775 913/269-6038 913/681-7775 913/663-1910 913/908-4942 913/764-9100 913/897-1824 Olathe Shawnee Mission Blue Valley Blue Valley Blue Valley Shawnee Mission Shawnee Mission Olathe Spring Hill Basehor-Linwood Olathe Olathe Shawnee Mission DeSoto Blue Valley Blue Valley Blue Valley Blue Valley Olathe Blue Valley Blue Valley Blue Valley Blue Valley Blue Valley Blue Valley Shawnee Mission Blue Valley Olathe Olathe Olathe Blue Valley DeSoto Blue Valley DeSoto Blue Valley Blue Valley Blue Valley Blue Valley DeSoto Blue Valley Blue Valley Blue Valley Blue Valley Olathe Blue Valley MISSOURI UNDER $300,000 Arbor Walk Benson Place Fieldstone Lee's Summit Kansas City $140,000s-$210,000s $250,000s-$275,000 816/537-4200 816/781-3354 Lee's Summit Liberty 52 � 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY NEIGHBORHOOD LOCATION PRICE RANGE PHONE NUMBER SCHOOL DISTRICT Benson Place Woodchase Carlton Plaza Creekmoor / pgs. 10-11 Dalton's Ridge Eagle Creek Eagle Glen Emerson Park Greyhawke at the Lake Highland Meadows Highlands of Northview Hunter's Ridge Kensington Farms Legacy Wood / pg. 75 New Longview Northgate Village North Pointe Village Park Ridge Raintree Lake / pg. 87 Rock Hill Rosewood Hills Running Horse Shoal Creek, The Village / pg. 45 Sunrise Farms Tiffany Lakes Timbercreek Timber Trails Woodland Shores Kansas City Kansas City Raymore Lee's Summit Lee's Summit Raymore Belton Smithville Kansas City N. Kansas City Pleasant Hill Lee's Summit Lee's Summit Lee's Summit N. Kansas City Peculiar Lee's Summit Lee's Summit Blue Springs Grain Valley Platte City Kansas City Grandview Kansas City Belton Raymore Lee's Summit $250,000s+ $160,000s+ $200,000+ $280,000s-$450,000s low $200,000s+ $180,000s-$350,000 $130,000s+ $200,000s-$500,000s $200,000s-$400,000s $180,000-$230,000s $200,000-$410,000 $150,000s+ $250,000s+ low $200,000s-$850,000 $200,000s+ $169,950-$185,000 $250,000s-$1 million+ $150,000-$850,000 $200,000s-$350,000s $180,000s-$270,000s $250,000-$300,000 $200,000s $120,000s+ $285,000s+ $140,000-$200,000 $200,000-$230,000 $100,000-$2 million+ 816/781-3354 816/960-1300 816/322-6092 816/795-9255 816/554-1318 913/491-1550 816/308-6804 816/223-5701 816/587-6101 816/210-5777 816/210-5777 816/820-2228 816/554-8881 816/765-9535 816/221-7681 913/345-3033 816/373-5900 816/537-6656 816/228-1316 816/419-9634 816/858-2512 816/792-2400 816/585-8809 816/410-5500 816/590-4817 816/318-4424 816/246-0064 Liberty Kansas City Raymore/Peculiar Blue Springs Lee's Summit Raymore/Peculiar Belton Smithville Park Hill North Kansas City Pleasant Hill Raymore/Peculiar Lee's Summit Lee's Summit North Kansas City Raymore/Peculiar Blue Springs Lee's Summit/Ray-Pec Blue Springs Grain Valley Platte County R-3 Liberty Grandview Platte County R-3 Belton Raymore/Peculiar Lee's Summit MISSOURI OVER $300,000 Copperleaf Green Glades at The Masters Highlands of Weatherby Lakewood Manderley Montebella Oakwood Forest Private Gardens Riss Lake Riverstone Seven Bridges Shoal Creek, The Preserve / pg. 45 Silverbrooke Staley Hills Stonegate Thousand Oaks Winterset Valley Woodneath Farms Woodland Shores Liberty Kansas City Kansas City Lee's Summit Kansas City Riverside Kansas City Kearney Parkville Kansas City Platte County Kansas City Kansas City Kansas City Platte County Kansas City Lee's Summit Kansas City Lee's Summit $345,000-$600,000+ upper $400,000s mid $400,000-$800,000 $400,000s-$1 million+ $480,000-$1million+ $400,000s-$2 million+ $320,000s-$500,000s $400,000s+ $500,000s-$6 million mid $300,000s+ $300,000s-$1 million+ $600,000s $300,000s-$700,000s+ $300,000+ $600,000s-$2 million+ $300,000s-$900,000s $320,000-$1.5 million $350,000s+ $100,000-$2 million+ 816/407-7347 816/410-6284 816/407-5250 816/350-1500 816/785-2100 816/741-6504 816/505-9494 816/781-4700 816/741-3002 816/584-2654 816/210-5777 816/792-2400 816/741-6504 816/942-5486 816/587-6101 816/891-7266 816/761-9755 816/781-7925 816/246-0064 Liberty Park Hill Park Hill Lee's Summit Liberty Park Hill Park Hill/North Kansas CIty Liberty Park Hill Park Hill Platte County R-3 Liberty Park Hill North Kansas City Park Hill Park Hill Lee's Summit Liberty Lee's Summit 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY � 53 Golf Course Communities COMMUNITY Cedar Creek / pgs. 2-3 Cottonwood Canyon Creekmoor / pg. 11 Deer Creek Drumm Farms Falcon Lakes / pg. 51 Falcon Ridge / pg. 51 Falcon Valley / pg. 51 Greens of Chapel Creek Links at LionsGate Loch Lloyd The National Prairie Highlands Reserve at Prairie Highlands Shoal Creek Valley / pg. 49 Staley Farms Stone Canyon Tiffany Greens / pg. 83 LOCATION Olathe, Kan. Lenexa, Kan. Raymore, Mo. Leawood, Kan. Independence, Mo. Basehor, Kan. Lenexa, Kan. Lenexa, Kan. Shawnee, Kan. Overland Park, Kan. Village of Loch Lloyd, Mo. Parkville, Mo. Olathe, Kan. Olathe, Kan. Liberty, Mo. Kansas City, Mo. Independence, Mo. Kansas City, Mo. PRICE RANGE $550,000s-$750,000 $450,000-$850,000 $250,000s+ $500,000-$825,000 $200,000s+ $200,000s-$650,000 $400,000s-$1 million+ $400,000s-$600,000s $200,000s-$600,000s $700,000s-$800,000s $500,000-$1 million+ $250,000-$1 million+ $250,000s-$400,000s $300,000s+ $200,000s-$1 million+ $350,000s-$1 million+ $250,000s+ $300,000s-$1 million+ SCHOOL DISTRICT Olathe/DeSoto Shawnee Mission Ray-Pec Blue Valley Independence Basehor/Linwood Olathe Olathe Shawnee Blue Valley Belton Park Hill Olathe Olathe Liberty North KC Blue Springs Kansas City, Mo. I N K A N S A S C I T Y PHONE NUMBER 913/829-6500 913/963-2825 816/331-0754 913/897-7547 816/228-1188 913/724-5400 913/780-9000 913/780-9004 913/647-5700 913/402-1100 816/331-9500 816/587-4663 913/856-8550 913/764-1440 816/781-7203 816/734-1800 816/228-1188 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 Arbor Creek Brownstones Brighton's Landing Villas Delaware Ridge Twin Villas Estates of Wolf Creek, The Enclave at the Reserve Falcon Lakes Villas / pg. 47 Falcon Village / pg. 47 Hazelwood Villas Holly Ridge Lakeview Villas at Alvamar Maple Crest, The Retreat at Mission 159 Prairie Brook Villas / pg. 21 The Wilderness, The Haven at The Wilderness, The Retreat at Willowbrooke Villas Olathe Olathe Olathe Kansas City Spring Hill Lenexa Basehor Lenexa Kansas City Overland Park Lawrence Overland Park Overland Park Olathe Overland Park Overland Park Olathe $112,000-$189,000 $200,000s-$300,000s upper $200,000s+ $140,000-$190,000 $199,000+ $160,000s+ $250,000+ $250,000+ $129,950+ $250,000+ $200,000-$280,000 $189,000+ $289,950+ $240,000+ $180,000-$250,000 $184,000-$199,000 $190,000+ townhome townhome villa/ranch villa townhome/patio home townhome villa attached twin villas villa townhome villa townhome townhome/patio home single family/villa condo townhome villa 913/244-8254 913/397-6060 913/782-0075 913/400-7225 913/592-3633 913/764-9898 913/724-5400 913/780-9699 913/915-6500 913/205-9444 785/841-2400 913/685-0303 913/322-0800 913/397-0281 913/685-0303 913/685-0500 913/491-1700 KANSAS SUBURBS $300,000+ Avignon Canyon Creek Villas Cedar Creek, The Villas of Shadow Glen / pg. 2-3 Olathe Lenexa Olathe Lenexa Leawood Kansas City Lenexa Olathe $300,000s $400,000s+ $550,000-$750,000 mid-$300,000-$500,000+ $600,000+ $300,000s-$400,000s $300,000-$400,000s low $300,000s+ patio homes villa villa villa condo single family villa villa 913/254-0279 913/441-8998 913/829-6500 913/780-9001 913/219-6065 913/721-0204 913/764-7838 913/681-8215 Falcon Ridge Villas / pg. 47 Parkway 133 Pavilions at Piper, The Prairie Villas at Falcon Valley / pg. 47 Quail Park 56 � 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY COMMUNITY LOCATION PRICE RANGE HOUSING TYPE PHONE NUMBER Tuscany Reserve, The Village of Villas of Highlands Ranch Whitehorse, The Villas of Leawood Leawood Leawood $600,000s-$1 million+ $600,000+ $360,000+ villa/townhome villa villa 913/269-6038 913/317-8525 913/851-9996 MISSOURI SUBURBS UNDER $150,000 Northaven Village Condominiums Steeple Oaks Townhomes Timber Trails Townhomes Kansas City Kansas City Raymore $93,950-$96,950 low $100,000s upper $100,000s+ condo townhome townhome 816/560-0637 816/734-0675 816/524-3855 MISSOURI SUBURBS $150,000-$300,000 Benson Cove Cherry Hills Cottages Creekmoor, Edgewater/Westbrook Villas / pg. 11 Kansas City Excelsior Springs Raymore Lee's Summit Lee's Summit Raymore North Kansas City Lee's Summit Kansas City South Independence Kansas City Excelsior Springs Lee's Summit Lee's Summit North Kansas City $170,000s+ $170,000-$350,000 $250,000s+ $215,000-$280,000 $269,000+ $200,000s-$240,000s low $200,000s+ $250,000-$700,000 $300,000s $150,000+ $200,000-$325,000 $200,000-$325,000 low $200,000+ $250,000-$400,000 $160,000s-$240,000s patio home patio home villa villa villa single family row home/patio home villa villa villa villa patio home villa villa villa 816/781-8647 816/630-4000 816/331-0754 816/554-2380 816/537-5113 816/318-4100 816/221-7681 816/373-5900 913/652-4382 816/228-1016 816/228-1016 816/630-4200 816/373-5900 816/761-9755 816/682-8364 Eagle Creek Countryside Fountains at Raintree Lake, The / pg. 87 Meadowood at the Good Ranch Northgate Village Park Ridge Manor Red Bridge Greens Remington Villas Royal View Meadows, The Villas of The Vintage, Estates of Trails at Park Ridge, The Winterset Garden Villas Woodbrooke Villas MISSOURI SUBURBS $300,000+ Creekmoor, Westbrook Villas / pg. 11 Lakewood Shores Villas Lakewood, The Falls at Loch Lloyd, The Highlands of The Reserve at Riss Lake Saddle Ridge, Villas at Southgate Village at Lake Winnebago Staley Farms, Elan Villas Raymore Lee's Summit Lee's Summit Belton Parkville Lee's Summit Lake Winnebago Kansas City $300,000+ $400,000+ $599,000+ $400,000s-$1 million+ $500,000+ $375,000+ $300,000-$1 million+ $300,000s+ villa villa villa villa single family villa villa villa 816/318-0299 816/350-1500 816/251-1745 816/331-9500 816/741-3002 816/220-0401 816/918-6103 816/734-1800 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 UNDER $200,000 700 Broadway 909 Walnut Board of Trade Condos Campbell Lofts Coffee Lofts DElofts First and Main Lofts Fountains Lofts Freighthouse Lofts Liberty Lofts Northgate Village Roanoke Plaza Condos Robert Louis Stevenson Sante Fe Place Condos Soho Lofts Union Carbide Condos Vista Condominiums The Westport Edge Condominiums Winston Churchill Condominiums 706 Broadway St. 909 Walnut 127 W. 10th St. 1535 Walnut 321 May St. 590 Delaware St. 156 Main St. 8th and Broadway 2029 Wyandotte St. 360 W. Pershing Road 2901 Gentry Park 45th & Roanoke 4804 Jefferson St. 2525 Main St. 308 W. 8th Ave. 912 Baltimore St. 3838 Rainbow Blvd. 4201-4215 Clark Ave. 803 W. 48th St. $120,000-$135,000 $160,000-$535,000 $129,000-$250,000 $170,000-$399,000 $199,000-$299,000 $98,000-$299,000 $180,000-$350,000 $170,000-$445,000 $170,000-$320,000 $89,000-$339,000 upper $100,000s+ $119,950-$134,950 $145,000+ $130,000-$269,000 $89,000-$165,000 $150,000-$999,000 $89,000+ $129,00-$159,000 $190,000+ loft loft condo loft loft loft loft loft loft loft townhome condo condo condo loft condo condo condo condo 816/756-1717 913/706-1892 816/842-6544 816/595-7000 913/432-3838 816/333-5638 816/531-2023 winstonchurchillcondominiums.com 816/842-6544 816/278-3099 816/842-6544 816/842-6544 816/842-6544 816/842-5800 816/808-9848 816/842-6544 816/842-6544 816/866-1009 816/221-7681 kcloftcentral.com 909walnut.com kcloftcentral.com kcloftcentral.com kcloftcentral.com delofts.com firstandmainlofts.com kcloftcentral.com kcloftcentral.com thelibertykc.com huntcommunities.com roanokeplazacondos.com rlscondos.com santafeplacecondos.com kcloftcentral.com unioncarbidecondos.com vistacondoskc.com OVER $200,000 41 Penn 4646 Broadway Belleview Plaza Crestwood Condominiums Freighthouse Flats Kirkwood One Park Place Parkway 133 The Summit Villas at Plaza West Wallstreet Tower Wornall Park Condos 4120 Pennslyvania 4646 Broadway St. 45th and Belleview 5401 Brookside Blvd. 2120 Wyandotte St. 4950 Central 700 W. 31st St. 133rd and Roe 1715 Summit Ave. 9507 Jarboe 1101 Walnut 300 W. 45th Terrace $225,000+ $499,000-$1.9 million $399,000-$600,000 $299,000-$850,000 $299,000-$350,000 $459,000-$2 million mid $200,000s+ $500,000s-$1.2 million loft loft condo condo condo loft/condo/TH/SF 913/410-6273 816/560-1273 913/638-5996 816/333-7500 913/206-7878 816/531-9444 816/756-2221 913/219-6065 913/302-2439 816/333-5638 816/471-1010 816/223-7756 41penn.com 4646broadway.com freighthouseflats.com kirkwoodkc.com oneparkplacekc.com parkway133.com kcsummitcondos.com condo condo townhome condo condo condo $299,000-$575,000 $900,000+ $225,000-$1.5 million $412,000-$980,000 wallstreettower.com 58 � 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY Guiding your business through the Internet terrain. Who's Guiding You? Sherpa: pronunciation: \ sher-p \ People employed as guides known for supporting trekkers and mountain climbers. A complete social media turnkey marketing system that: Increases Google Rank Increases Web Traffic Enhances Consumer Connection Increases Leads and Referrals 913.648.5757 ext.13 www.Design-Sherpa.com A division of Network Communication Inc., publishers of Kansas City Homes and Gardens magazine e "We at Design Build Team are thrilled with NCI's Sherpa program! Sherpa has assigned us our own personal assistant who posts several things every week and has written pieces using photos and other articles we have sent her. Also, being able to post to the blog ourselves has been amazing as we, on our own, can write pieces and add photos. Sherpa rocks!" Merejo Dussiar Design Build Team Inc. 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 DOWNTOWN 909 Walnut The Blenheim & The Sylvester Clubhouse Lofts Cold Storage Lofts The Dolores Lanell The Founders The Freighthouse Lofts at Stuart Hall 816/221-5500 816/931-7474 816/268-0386 816/472-0126 816/931-7474 816/777-5900 816/221-1620 816/931-7474 816/842-6544 816/471-7314 816/474-5638 816/777-5900 816/472-4663 816/471-7312 816/474-5638 816/472-1344 816/777-5900 816/471-4611 816/777-5900 816/931-7474 816/471-4611 816/931-2108 816/455-9999 816/436-2202 816/420-9229 816/454-3479 816/587-2900 816/436-6260 816/781-8787 816/436-4851 816/505-9700 816/436-8662 816/436-2620 816/454-3535 816/741-4050 816/452-2288 816/454-1562 816/741-7565 816/505-1146 816/452-4237 816/468-8111 $870-$2,600 $1,100-$1,890 $795-$3,000 $575-$1,300 $1,100-$1,450 $675-$1,435 $800-$2,500 $1,450-$1,780 $625-$2,500 $595-$699 $900-$1,250 $1,575-$1,995 $655-$900+ $405-$540 $800+ $625-$1,150 $540-$685 $750-$1,850 $785-$1,240 $1,890+ $750-$1,100 $879-$1,065 $770-$1,200 $599-$1,040 $695-$1,095 $445-$645+ $520-$830 $679-$1,489 $530-$760 $495-$775 $599-$1,050 $540-$785 $509-$715 $440-$775 $450-$710 $555-$795 $449-$955 $500-$755 $700-$1,695 $480-$670 $699-$1,260 garage parking, fitness center, climate-controlled storage, hardwood floors, rooftop garden large rooms, original details, w/d, built-in stereo, gated parking pool/exercise facilities, snack/coffee shop on-site rooftop pool with sundeck, w/d, controlled access building with elevators detailed aesthetics, energy-efficient, off-street parking, French doors garage parking, w/d, central air, pet-friendly club room with TV/grill, pool and exercise facility, tanning bed intercom entry, w/d, modern kitchen, historical details, hardwood floors garage parking, health club, w/d hook-ups, city views, vintage architecture convenient to highways and shopping, private outdoor pool and garden pets welcome, garage parking, w/d, fitness facility, outdoor pool hardwood floors, attached two-car garage, individual alarm systems hardwood floors, bay windows, pool, off-street parking central location, parking, exercise facility incredible views, pool, secure private parking, w/d nearby shopping, Old World charm, controlled key access historic charm, contemporary design, great location hot tubs/sauna, nearby shopping, fitness/club room hot water heaters, individual alarm system, w/d, balcony 2-story floor plan, w/d, private balcony, private entry, walk-in closets w/d, elevator, water and trash paid, pets welcome, fitness room gated parking, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, w/d garages, alarm system, vaulted ceilings, fireplaces 24-hour fitness, tanning bed and sauna, pool, pets welcome computer workstation in every unit, walk-in closets, pool, theater, w/d exercise room with sauna, playground, clubhouse, swimming pool with sundeck patios/balconies with storage, pools/fitness facility, tennis and basketball courts, pantries Playground, alarm, w/d, pool, fitness center AAA-rated Liberty schools, pool, clubhouse, garage parking private entrances, playground, professional lawn care, trash paid pools/Jacuzzi, fitness center, on-site security, bbq area, dry-cleaning service w/d, fitness center, tennis courts, pool, weight room w/d, fireplace, covered parking, free tanning bed, pool, fitness center laundry facilities on every floor, pool, fitness center, pets welcome fishing lake, pool, fitness center, saunas, minutes from KCI full-size w/d, pets welcome, swimming pool and fitness center, garage and storage available clubhouse, playground, pools, organized activities w/d, fitness center, pools, tennis court, water and trash paid stacked w/d, snow/trash removal, on-site security no KC earning tax, pet-friendly, fireplaces, pools, patrol service private attached garages, fitness center, business center, pool, jogging trail LISTINGS CONTINUED ON PAGE 62 The Illinois Library Lofts Nine Ten Penn Old Townley Lofts The Payne Rowhomes Quality Hill Quality Hill Towers Richards & Conover Lofts River Market Lofts Roanoke Court Soho Lofts Union Hill Place Walnut 41 West 7th St. Lofts Yankee Hill KANSAS CITY NORTH Aloha Bay @ Harbor Town Barclay Club Apartments Barrewoods Broadway Village Camden Passage Carrington Park Clay Terrace Continental North The Crossings at Barry Road The Ethans Falcon Point Forest Park Hunter's Glen Kensington Court Knollwood Apartments The Lakes Apartments The Lofts & Apartments at Zona Rosa London Towers The Manor Homes of Fox Crest 60 � 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY BUILDING PHONE PRICE RANGE AMENITIES New Mark Oak Creek Province of Briarcliff The Reserve at Barry The Vintage at Zona Rosa Madison @ Walnut Creek WildOak 816/734-4030 816/455-0204 816/505-3101 816/741-6733 816/584-9500 816/459-8733 816/407-7100 816/941-4144 816/761-3411 816/761-7731 816/763-7008 816/761-7368 816/229-7700 816/942-1522 816/763-6828 816/331-3968 816/331-1855 816/761-7617 816/763-8526 816/737-1225 816/761-9310 816/361-3395 816/942-1918 816/763-0330 816/333-5401 816/942-5997 816/761-1407 816/229-2883 816/257-7368 816/373-8514 816/373-8500 816/373-8510 816/923-9300 816/373-6239 816/918-6810 816/554-6240 816/272-6175 816/795-1800 816/229-2122 816/478-2100 816/921-9663 816/795-8881 816/373-7666 816/373-5100 816/353-6060 816/224-3334 816/373-7254 913/642-1750 913/681-0700 913/722-3171 913/831-2900 913/681-5700 913/642-1237 913/712-9006 913/685-3939 913/498-8500 $465-$795 $375-$425 $795-$1,470 $620-$950 $700-$1,170 $590-$719 $695-$1,010 $540-$690 $475-$584 $490-$710 $525-$680 $360-$850 $675-$975 $475-$1,150 $460-$715 $535-$795 $695-$795 $535-$730 $399-$825 $555-$645 $545-$665 $550-$745 $719-$1,290 $697-$999 $399-$499 $550-$1,800 $797-$1,206 $449-$699 $550-$675 $470-$540 $605-$715 $515-$615 $635-$795 $580-$715 $700-$1,150 $699-$799 $785-$1,250 $525-$615 $499-$700 $545-$895 $545-$990 $734-$1,119 $469-$689 $565-$760 $515-$620 $799-$999 $565-$690 $659-$980 $795-$1,535 $604-$799 $675-$1,225 $760-$1,500 $759-$1,555 $699-$1,200 $665-$1,060 $661-$1,075 pool, basketball and tennis courts, storage facilities, fitness center, woodburning fireplaces swimming pools, laundry room, playground, water/sewer included, trash pickup full w/d, monitored intrusion alarms, resort-style pool, jogging/bike trail storage space, tennis courts, gourmet kitchen, pets welcome fireplace, fitness center, pool, modern kitchen, soaking tub pools/hot tubs, sport courts, tanning bed, pets welcome, car wash bay walk-in closets, w/d, discounted cable, pools/hot tub, fitness center pool, nature trail, caring management team, w/d, breakfast bar clubhouse, sauna/pool, dishwasher, central air, 24-hour maintenance clubhouse, laundry rooms, picnic/play area, fitness center, all but electric paid fireplace, w/d, covered parking, alarm system, water/sewer included private patios/balconies, tennis court, playground, water/trash paid high-speed Internet access, w/d, pool, gated community fitness center, pool, theater/media center, clubhouse privately locked building entry, pools, playground, water/sewer included golf privileges for residents, fitness center, whirlpool/sauna gated entry, fitness center, laundry rooms, water/trash paid, (tax credit property) pool, sundeck/spa, 33 wooded acres, gated community intrusion alarms, pools, trash pickup, playground, water/sewer paid private patios/balconies, pool, picnic area with BBQ grills, w/d swimming pool, 24-hour laundry facility, pets welcome, community playground fireplace, garages, laundry rooms, pool, lake gas fireplaces, pool and clubhouse, private front/rear entrances, water/sewer/trash paid, w/d full w/d, pool/hot tub, gated community, pets welcome, nature trail and fishing lakes indoor pool, fitness center, 24-hour maintenance, w/d exercise room, outdoor pool, laundry rooms, ample parking carports, corporate apts. available 24-hour fitness center, business center, sidewalk patio, bbq area, swimming pool, w/d laundry rooms, pool, fitness center with free tanning, covered parking luxury kitchen, pass-through serving bar, playground, covered balcony, pool private hot water heater, electric appliances, large closets, sparkling pool covered parking, swimming pool, clubhouse, private entrances, patrol woodburning fireplaces, cathedral ceilings, highway access, European-style kitchen resort-style pool/spa, private decks with outdoor storage, fitness center, w/d fitness center with free personal trainer, pool, pets welcome maintenance-free, w/d, lifestyle center, fitness center, pool/Jacuzzi clubhouse, fitness center, pool, pets welcome, all-electric kitchen fitness center, private balcony, heated saltwater pool with infinity edge, three-acre lake, w/d patios and decks, spacious floor plans, fireplaces, clubhouse, pool vaulted ceilings, pool, fitness center, clubhouse, shopping nearby racquetball and lighted tennis courts, large closets, fitness center, gas included controlled access gates, individual monitored alarms, pools, 24-hour courtesy officer full w/d, lounge with TV/billiards, walking trail/basketball courts vaulted ceilings, basketball and tennis courts, private entrance indoor pool with sundeck, fitness center, clubhouse, covered parking large kitchen, breakfast bar, play area, beautiful landscape, pools health club, Blue Springs School District, direct-access garages, w/d, pool, pets welcome pool/bbq area, covered parking, fully equipped kitchen, patios/balconies indoor whirlpool spa, fireplace, fitness center, pool, smoke detectors w/d, sauna, pool/hot tub, basketball courts, trail, fitness center Olympic-size swimming pool, movie theater, sand volleyball, hardwood/ceramic tile, w/d gas paid in most units, w/d hookups, Internet cafe, pet park w/d, intrusion alarms, fitness center, outdoor pool/spa, tennis court large kitchen, lighted tennis courts, covered parking, fireplaces in some units golf views, resort-style clubhouse, secluded yet close to services w/d, wardrobe closet, views of golf course, walking trail, outdoor saltwater pool water/trash paid, pool, spa, fitness center, pets welcome, video rental KANSAS CITY SOUTH Apple Creek Arbors of Grandview Briarwood Gardens Bridgeport Canyon Creek City Homes at Fall Creek Coach House Gatehouse Grand Summit Lakewood Terrace Madison Park Nob Hill Park Meadows Prairie Walk The Ridge at Chestnut Hill Three Fountains Timber Lakes at Red Bridge Waldo Heights Windsong KANSAS CITY EAST AMLI New Longview Autumn Place Brookstone Village Burning Tree Cedar Brooke Cliffside Apartments Cornerstone Coventry Park Creekside Village Crossroads of Lee's Summit The Fairways at Lakewood Independence Ridge Kingsridge The Mansion Maple Hills Pepperwood Apartments Quail Creek/Roundtree Summerset Apartments Trails at the Ridge The Village at Adams Dairy Williamsburg Square JOHNSON COUNTY Aspen Lodge Bella Palazzo The Boulevard The Bridges at Foxridge Corbin Crossing Corinth Communities The Dunes at Falcon Valley The Dunes at St. Andrews Enclave at Town Center 62 � 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY BUILDING PHONE PRICE RANGE AMENITIES The Falls Foxfire Apartments The Greens at Shawnee Hawthorne Hunter's Pointe Indian Meadows Jefferson Place Jefferson Pointe The Lodge of Overland Park Oak Park Village Park Edge Peppertree Pinecrest Townhomes The Reserve at Lenexa Ridgeview Skyler Ridge The Village at LionsGate Whispering Hills Wind River Lodge The Woods of Cherry Creek 913/362-1920 913/362-9391 913/422-8295 913/491-6723 913/451-1850 913/791-1000 913/764-1471 913/906-9100 913/648-8000 913/888-1500 913/307-9393 913/384-1817 913/397-7463 913/888-8700 913/829-8088 913/451-8976 913/814-7368 913/897-2116 913/888-1505 913/491-3030 $392-$892 $575-$760 $690-$845+ $470-$815 $655-$1,275 $570-$815 $445-$650 $760-$1,745 $525-$850 $535-$805 $750-$1,045 $530-$979 $935-$1,160 $610-$849 $480-$635 $550-$915 $765-$1,650 $539-$699 $575-$895 $740-$1,600 24-hour fitness center, on-site caf�, pool, tanning bed, pets welcome fireplaces/carports available, walk-in closets, tennis courts, pool golf privileges for residents, fitness center, water/trash/cable paid, pool, tanning beds, w/d alarm system, laundry connections, clubhouse, fitness center, pools fireplace, exercise/weight room, covered parking, w/d, saltwater pool laundry rooms, pool, fitness center, walking trail, private entry, tax credit properties available clubhouse overlooking fishing lake, enclosed patios, laundry facilities in each building, pool gated community, granite countertops, 8,400-square-foot clubhouse, w/d 24-hour fitness center, 22-mile trail, pools/courts/sauna clubhouse, pool, tennis and basketball courts, saltwater pools nature trails, fitness center, curbside trash pickup, pets welcome pool, w/d, Internet access, jogging/bike trail, grill/bbq area garage, laundry rooms, outdoor swimming pool/cabana w/d, woodburning fireplaces, garage, private balcony, pool, clubhouse pool, central A/C, laundry rooms, eat-in kitchen with breakfast bar, (tax credit property) pool, 24-hour fitness center, playground, alarm system direct-access garage, lake with nature trail, alarms, pool, fitness center, billiards, w/d indoor/outdoor pool, fitness center, tennis court, spa/sauna Olympic-size pool, fitness center, laundry facility, racquetball/basketball courts direct-access garage, clubhouse, w/d, breakfast bar, high-speed Internet, sunroom Management Companies AMLI Residential Cohen-Esrey Equity Corporate Housing KC Loft Central Oakwood Worldwide Plaza Apartment Center Terra Management 913/905-1300 913/671-3387 800/601-6313 816/842-6544 913/492-1231 816/756-0701 816/561-9210 Apartment Locator Services 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 913/888-8100 816/587-5084 913/663-4545 913/894-9222 913/469-6633 913/232-5900 913/894-8400 816/931-3700 913/945-3704 For more listings, visit apartmentfinder.com PLAZA LIVING C ENTER ENTER THE HE Relocating in Kansas City? We can help! Specializing in The Plaza area, South KC, & Johnson Co. KS Our services include: Free, professional locator Specializing in all types of assistance for apartments, lifestyle real estate condos, or homes, including Reputable, knowledgeable, corporate apartments experienced agents Corporate relocation Property listings available in Personalized Service a wide variety of price ranges Market resale homes, townhomes Successfully serving the & condos as well as new homes entire community for the past 20 years Buyer representation 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. The North Kansas City Schools www.nkcsd.k12.mo.us �iStockphoto/Marilyn Nieves Liberty School District www.liberty.k12.mo.us Platte County, Mo. Park Hill R-IV School District is the largest district in the county, with more than 10,000 students being served in Kansas City, Mo. Platte County R-III School District is the second-largest, with more than 3,000 students in Platte City. North Platte R-1 School District serves Dearborn, Mo., while West Platte R-II School District serves Weston, Mo. www.co.platte.mo.us Back to School Public or private, elementary or graduate level, Kansas City excels in education. Academy of Arts & Science, and Park Hill are just a few examples of schools that have all been nationally recognized for their academic success. Following is a list of the major counties' school districts. T he Kansas City metro area has some of the top schools in America. Blue Valley high schools, Sumner Johnson County, Kan. Johnson County's six school districts have some of the best public schools in the Midwest. Blue Valley School District www.bluevalleyk12.org Shawnee Mission School District www.smsd.org Olathe School District www.olathe.k12.ks.us DeSoto's Unified School District www.usd232.org Gardner Edgerton School District www.usd231.com Spring Hill School District www.usd230.k12.ks.us Cass County, Mo. The 12 campuses of the Belton School District serve about 4,800 students. Students' ACT scores were listed in the top 10 among other school districts in the Kansas City metropolitan area in 2006. www.beltonschools.k12.mo.us Several other districts serve the Cass County area, including Archie R-V, Drexel R-IV, East Lynne, Harrisonville Cass R-IV, Midway R-1, Pleasant Hill R-III, RaymorePeculiar, Sherwood Cass R-VIII and Strasburg C-3. Jackson County, Mo. There are 12 school districts in Jackson County. Many of these districts maintain AAA ratings, the highest possible. The Kansas City, Mo. School District www.kcmsd.net Lee's Summit School District www.leesummit.k12.mo.us The Blue Springs School District www.bluesprings-schools.net The Independence School District www.indep.k12.mo.us 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 Wyandotte County, Kan. Kansas City, Kansas, Public Schools www.kckps.org Turner Unified School District www.turnerusd202.org Bonner Springs/ Edwardsville School District www.usd204.k12.ks.us The Piper School District www.piperschools.com Higher Education The metropolitan has many options for postsecondary education. Here are 20 of them: COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kan. www.ku.edu University of Missouri-Kansas City www.umkc.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 Missouri Western State University, St. Joseph, Mo. www.missouriwestern.edu Northwest Missouri State University, Maryville, Mo. www.nwmissouri.edu 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 BEST OUTDOOR LIVING SPACE � CUSTOM DECKS � SCREEN PORCHES � OUTDOOR KITCHENS � PROFESSIONAL DESIGN � DUPONT STORM ROOMS � FOUR SEASON ROOMS 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. 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 A S P E C I A L A D V E R T I S I N G S E C T I O N 66 � 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY Blue Valley School District "Education Beyond Expectations" is what the Blue Valley School District stands for. Providing all Blue Valley students with unprecedented academic success and unparalleled personal growth is at the heart of the district's mission. Based at 15020 Metcalf Ave. in Overland Park, the district serves 21,000 students in southeastern Johnson County with five high schools grades 9-12, eight middle schools grades 6-8, and 20 elementary schools grades K-5. In fall 2010 the district opened its fifth high school and the Center for Advanced Professional Studies. 913/239-4000 or www.bluevalleyk12.org schools (5-8) and one high school (9-12). It is home to 12 Horizon Award-winning teachers, a 2010 District III Athletic Director of the Year, a 2009 Presidential Award for Math and Science teacher, the 2007 and 2008 American Star of Teaching Award winners for the state of Kansas, six ING Unsung Heroes grant winners, and the 2006 Kansas Milken National Educator. GEHS has captured 17 league championships in football, girls and boys basketball, cross country, wrestling, track, golf and volleyball during the past five years, and in 2009, participated in the State Championship football game. GEHS joins the Eastern Kansas League this year. Six GESD schools have received the Governor's Achievement Award representing the top 5 percent of schools in Kansas. In 2009, GESD schools achieved the State Standard of Excellence in 74 out of 76 possible opportunities in reading and math. As an honored District of Character, Gardner Edgerton USD 231's commitment to excellence and passion for working with young people have created a world-class organization whose primary objective is to maximize the potential of all students -- today and in the future. 913/856-2000 or www.usd231.com Lawrence Virtual School Lawrence Virtual School is a tuition-free online public school program serving students kindergarten through eighth grade across Kansas, with an annual $97 technology and instructional materials fee requirement. Families get access to the exceptional K12 curriculum and patented methodology for online learning; support from passionate, Kansas-licensed teachers; a supportive school community; and a range of extracurricular activities. As the leading curriculum provider for public online schools serving kindergarten through high school, K12 has served Gardner Edgerton USD 231 Gardner Edgerton USD 231 serves the communities of Gardner and Edgerton in the southwest corner of Johnson County, Kan., with an enrollment of 4,600 students. Gardner Edgerton has six elementary schools (K-4), two middle 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 firstname.lastname@example.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 student. they Students succeed and because integrate faith 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 With more than 3,000 students in six schools, the Spring Hill School District has a reputation for providing excellent educational opportunities to its students. In addition, students may participate in a wide range of extracurricular activities and community service projects. With support from parents and the community, work continues each day by dedicated staff members to prepare today's students for tomorrow's opportunities. Currently, the district has three elementary schools, one middle school and two high schools, including a traditional four-year high school and an online school that offers educational opportunities to students across the state of Kansas. www.usd230.k12.ks.us at 4041 Main St., is an independent school for students 2 1/2 years old through eighth grade. Sessions for toddlers, preschoolers and pre-kindergartners are half-day or fullday. A new 26,000-square-foot building houses these young students. Grades first through eighth are housed in a state-ofthe-art school building that includes a computer lab, gymnasium, foreign language lab and science lab, and an extensive library with a mobile laptop cart. All students begin their school day with a chapel lesson that instills character development. Additionally, St. Paul's has three-and-a-half acres of playing fields. Sports include volleyball, soccer, tennis, lacrosse and basketball. 816/931-8614 or www.speds.org (MCPL) consists of 30 branches serving Clay, Jackson and Platte counties in the Kansas City metropolitan area. It was established in 1965 and is now one of the largest library systems in the United States. The system contains more than three million books, which are made available to all library users through an elaborate communication system and daily delivery service. This is true also for extensive collections of audio/visual materials and online resources. In addition to the collection, MCPL offers a wide array of live programming for children and adults. The library's Summer Reading Program for children is one of the largest in the nation, encouraging reading through the critical summer months, and the system's Midwest Genealogy Center is the largest public genealogy facility in the nation. 816/836-5200 or www.mymcpl.org EDUCATIONAL RESOURCE St. Paul's Episcopal Day School St. Paul's Episcopal Day School, located The Mid-Continent Public Library The Mid-Continent Public Library Eddie CummingS Tile, Inc 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE We provide quality craftsmanship for all our contractors and homeowners. CALL EDDIE 816.918.4807 70 � 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY Wood Rot Carpentry Tile Work Interior Painting Hardwood & Laminates Flooring Gutter Cleaning Siding Plumbing Exterior Painting Trim Work Electrical Decks Fencing Yard Work Window Replacement Stain Work Basement Finishes Custom Trim Work ALL GENERAL HANDYMAN WORK SALON 9511 Antioch Rd Overland Park, KS 913.648.8923 www.thelasttangle.com Fully Insured Over 20 Years Experience All Work Guaranteed Free Estimates 913.484.1334 Don't let mosquitoes BUG you this season! Let United Mosquito & Fly Control design a custom solution for your yard. Instead of swatting mosquitoes, you'll be enjoying your yard and grounds all summer long. � Expert metal finishing, fabrication & repair including polishing & lacquering � Polished & black nickel, brass, copper, gold & silver plating � Restoration of door hardware, light fixtures, plumbing fixtures, etc. � Custom fabrication of architectural elements Take Back Your Yard. UNITED MOSQUITO & FLY CONTROL CALL US TODAY! 913-558-3814 � www.unitedkc.com Ask about our Fly Control Systems for horse stables. 72 � 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY � PROPRIETORS � Steve Gaunt and Jim Hummel 1315 Tracy Avenue � Kansas City MO 64106 Phone 816.471.1002 Fax 816.471.1008 www.acmebrassplating.com 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 related by blood, marriage or adoption must �iStockphoto/Ekaterina Monakhova 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, 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 a nationally recognized organization. Above all, keep in mind that there is no perfect day-care/preschool solution for all children; there is only the one that is perfect for your child's and family's individual needs. 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. M oving to a new community brings plenty of exciting changes, and finding child care school model that serves children from 6 weeks to 12 years of age with full-time, part-time, and before- and after-school programs. "Primrose's unique curriculum called Balanced Learning blends the two leading philosophies of teaching young children: child-initiated and teacher-directed," says Anita Baude, owner of Primrose School of Leawood. "The child-initiated component allows children to think for themselves and explore their own abilities, while teachers guide them toward a love of learning and prepare them for lifelong success." Montessori Academy in Kansas City, Mo., is privately owned and well-known as a preschool/child-care facility that offers individual attention to each child and a well-rounded educational and extracurricular schedule. "The curriculum is a modified Montessori with extra classes in Spanish, music and Suzuki violin," says owner Holly Beyer. is frequently a top priority. Every child is different, and family needs vary across the board. Luckily, child care options do, too. If you are seeking minimal care, such as a few hours per week, check with your local places of worship. Mother's Day Out programs are prevalent in church settings and offer a caring, comfortable, playful environment for your child. These programs also can be found in individual homes. For daily care, your options range from in-home day-care operations to group child- Kansas City Area Child-Care Resources Kansas Department of Health & Environment Child Care Licensing and Registration 785/296-1500, www.kdheks.gov/health/index.html Missouri Bureau of Child Care Northwestern District Section for Child Care Regulation 3717 S. Whitney Ave., Independence, MO 64055 816/350-5450 www.dhss.mo.gov/childcare care facilities to early education learning centers and schools. If you are looking for a more educationally oriented and curriculum-based setting for your toddler, there are a host of preschools and learning centers in the Kansas City area. The Primrose School has three different locations and is one example of a franchised 74 � 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY 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 913/342-1110, www.thefamilyconservancy.org Two Generations of Excellence Holthaus Building Inc. www.holthausbuilding.com Custom Homes � Remodels � Room Additions � Lower Level Finishes HBI 913.814.0475 The Excellence of LEE'S SUMMIT From Our Family to Yours! QUALITY HOMES starting in the $260s AAA rated Lee's Summit Schools Adjacent to Lee's Summit's Premier Legacy Park Community Pool and Cabana Lots Starting at $48,950.00 BY WOOD FAMILY DEVELOPMENT, INC. Colbern Road Blackwell Pkwy. Legacy Park 470 Langsford 50 291 Legacy Wood is Marketed exclusively by: WOOD TEAM REALTY EXECUTIVES Kathy Wood and Brian Wood Office open daily at 11a.m. 816-554-8881 www.legacy-wood.com 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY � 75 I N K A N S A S C I T Y Kansas City is blessed with an abundance of well-manicured and challenging public and private golf courses to enjoy. I n Kansas City, the golf course is about much more than the game of golf. It's a casual ground for talking business; Falcon Ridge Golf Course 20200 Prairie Star Pkwy., Lenexa 913/393-4653 or www.falconridgegolf.com Falcon Valley Golf Course 9801 Falcon Valley Drive, Lenexa 913/780-5976 or www.falconvalleygolf.com Heritage Park Golf Course 16445 Lackman Road, Olathe 913/829-4653 or www.jcprd.com IronHorse Golf Club 15400 Mission Road, Leawood 913/685-4653 or www.ironhorsegolf.com Oak Country Golf Course 8800 Scott Drive, DeSoto 913/583-3503 or www.oakcountrygolfcourse.com Sunflower Hills Golf Course 122nd and Riverview Road, Bonner Springs 913/573-8570 or www.wycokck.org Sycamore Ridge Golf Course 21731 Clubhouse Drive, Spring Hill 913/592-5292 or www.sycamoreridgegolf.com Sykes Lady Overland Park Golf Course a place for family and friends to relax and unwind on the weekends; and a quiet, peaceful escape on a sunny Saturday afternoon. That is why it's not unusual to find many Kansas Citians, of all ages and skill levels, out on the greens. You, too, can play on one of the area's challenging, innovative courses. Here's your guide to Kansas City's greens. 12501 Quivira, Overland Park 913/897-3809 or www.opkansas.org Tomahawk Hills Golf Course 17501 Midland Drive, Shawnee 913/631-8000 or www.jcprd.com KANSAS PUBLIC COURSES Deer Creek Golf Club 133rd and Metcalf, Overland Park 913/681-3100 or www.deercreekgc.com Dub's Dread Golf Club 12601 Hollingsworth Road, Kansas City 913/871-7616 or www.dubsdreadgolfclub.com Falcon Lakes Golf Course 4605 Clubhouse Drive, Basehor 913/724-4653 or www.falconlakesgolf.com KANSAS PRIVATE COURSES Brookridge Golf & Country Club 8223 W. 103rd St., Overland Park 913/648-1600 or www.brookridgecc.net The Golf Club of Kansas 18145 W. 87th St. Pkwy., Lenexa 913/888-4894 or www.gcofkansas.com Hallbrook Country Club 11200 Overbrook Road, Leawood 913/345-9292 or www.hallbrookcc.org CONTINUED ON PAGE 78 Painted Hills Golf Course 7101 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City 913/334-1111 or www.paintedhillsgolfcourse.com Prairie Highlands Golf Course 14695 S. Inverness St., Olathe 913/856-7235 or www.prairiehighlands.com St. Andrews Golf Course 11099 W. 135th St., Overland Park 913/897-3804 or www.opkansas.org 76 � 2011 RELOCATING TO KANSAS CITY Photo courtesy of Staley Farms Going for the Greens voted #1 in the Northland Home of THE Women's GOLF Expo Join our email club OPEN TO THE PUBLIC 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 816/537-6556 or www.shamrockhills.com Photo courtesy of Tiffany Greens Golf Club 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 Tiffany Greens Golf Course 5900 NW Tiffany Springs Pkwy., Kansas City 816/880-9600 or www.tiffanygreensgolf.com WinterStone Golf Course 17101 E. Kentucky Road, Independence 816/257-5755 or www.winterstonegolf.com Indian Hills Country Club 6847 Tomahawk Road, Mission Hills 913/362-6200 or www.ihcckc.com Lake Quivira Country Club 100 Crescent Blvd., Lake Quivira 913/631-7577 or www.lakequivira.org Leawood South Country Club 12700 Overbrook Road, Leawood 913/491-1313 or www.leawoodsouthcc.com Meadowbrook Golf & Country Club 9101 Nall Ave., Prairie Village 913/642-4640 or www.meadowbrookcc.org Metcalf Ridge Golf Club 6302 W. 295th St., Louisburg 913/837-5476 or www.metcalfridge.com Milburn Golf & Country Club 7501 W. 69th St., Overland Park 913/432-0490 or www.milburn.org Mission Hills Country Club 5400 Mission Drive, Mission Hills 913/722-5400 or www.missionhillscc.com Nicklaus Golf Club at LionsGate 14225 Dearborn Ave., Overland Park 913/402-1000 or www.clubcorp.com Shadow Glen Golf Club 26000 Shadow Glen Drive, Olathe 913/764-2299 or www.shadowglen.org MISSOURI PUBLIC COURSES Adams Pointe Golf Club 1601 R.D. Mize Road, Blue Springs 816/220-3673 or www.adamspointegolfclub.com Bent Oak Golf Club 1300 SE 30th St., Oak Grove 816/690-3028 or www.bentoakgolfclub.com Country Creek Golf Club 3 courses, Pleasant Hill 816/540-5225 or www.countrycreekgolf.com Drumm Farm Golf Club 15400 E. 34th St., Independence 816/350-9900 or www.drummfarmgolfclub.com MISSOURI PRIVATE COURSES The Country Club of Blue Springs 1600 NW Circle Drive, Blue Springs 816/229-1194 or www.countryclubofbluesprings.net Hillcrest Country Club 8200 Hillcrest Road, Kansas City 816/523-8601 or www.hillcrestkc.com Lakewood Oaks Golf Club 651 NE St. Andrews Circle, Lee's Summit 816/373-2505 or www.logc.org Loch Lloyd Country Club 16750 Country Club Drive, Village of Loch Lloyd Eagles' Landing Golf Course 4200 Bong Ave., Belton 816/318-0004 or www.eagleslandinggolfcourse.com Fred Arbanas Golf Course at Longview Lake 11100 View High Drive, Kansas City 816/761-9445 or www.jacksongov.org/golf Hodge Park Golf Course 7000 NE Barry Road, Kansas City 816/781-4152 or www.hodgeparkgolf.com Paradise Pointe Golf Complex 18212 Golf Course Road, Smithville 816/532-4100 or www.paradisepointegolf.com 816/322-1022 or www.lochlloyd.com The National Golf Club of Kansas City 6700 N. National Drive, Parkville 816/746-0200 or www.thenationalgolfclub.com Staley Farms Golf Club 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 reasonablyis priced, shopping owned ansas City a world-class locally area. We do have and nationally the first shopping known retailers mall ever built, after all! You'll to feed your special you've been find that something addiction. K searching for or you'll find something you never even knew you wanted. �iStockphoto/Justin Horrocks MIGHTY MALLS Corbin Park. 135th and Metcalf. This new shopping center has a unique layout inspired by Tuscan landscapes that features fire pits, courtyards and fountains. Anchored by Kansas City's first Von Maur, Corbin Park houses upscale retailers such as Ralph Lauren, Kenneth Cole and Nicole Miller. www.corbinpark.com including a double-decker carousel and food court. 816/795-8600 or www.simon.com Country Club Plaza. 47th and J.C. Nichols Pkwy. Designed in 1922, the Plaza is a living monument to Mediterranean architecture and is modeled after Seville, Spain. Known for its world-class shopping, the Plaza is home to big-name stores and local boutiques, as well as year-round events from live music to holiday lights. 816/753-0100 or www.countryclubplaza.com Oak Park Mall. 95th and Quivira. Kansas City's largest enclosed shopping center, Oak Park Mall features more than 185 shops; a stateof-the-art children's play area and carousel; and unique stores like Sephora, XXI Forever and Lacoste, plus favorites like Coach, Arden B, bebe, Guess and more. 913/888-4400 or www.thenewoakparkmall.com Crown Center. Grand and Pershing. This "city within a city" is more than just shopping, with two hotels, a variety of restaurants, live theaters, ice terrace and the Hallmark Visitors Center, which offers a look at the history of Hallmark Cards, and Kaleidoscope, a creative workshop for children ages 5-12. 816/274-8444 or www.crowncenter.com Hawthorne Plaza. 119th and Roe. One M A L LT E R N AT I V E S Briarcliff Village. 169 Hwy and Briarcliff Pkwy. The 13,000-square-foot Tuscan-themed Briarcliff Village offers upscale shops, restaurants and office space in the Northland. It includes local, elegant restaurants like Piropos and Trezomare Restaurant and Lounge with fashionable boutiques like L&L Home Goods and Gifts, Urban Arts + Crafts and Nell Hill's. The GreenAcres Market gives consumers an alternative grocery store. 816/595-5820 or www.briarcliffkc.com of Kansas City's most original shopping centers, the architecturally pleasing, openair plaza features upscale boutiques, unique specialty shops, one of the largest Talbots stores in the nation and four dining establishments. 816/756-3535 or www.hawthorneplazashopping.com Independence Center. I-70 and Hwy 291. Set within a lively and luminous atmosphere, more than 130 specialty shops anchored by Dillard's, Macy's and Sears provide ample shopping opportunities with a pleasurable ambiance spread over two spacious levels. A third level is dedicated to a food-themed children's play area, 80 � 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY one NINETEEN. 119th and Roe. This plaza is a hub for stylish home decor with major retailers such as Z Gallerie and Crate & Barrel. Shopping can become 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 www.destinationparkplace.com and Parallel Pkwy. This 1.1 million-squarefoot lifestyle center is at the epicenter of Kansas' No. 1 tourism district, which also includes outdoor retailer Cabela's and Nebraska Furniture Mart. Play, eat and shop at this one-of-a-kind destination. 913/788-3700 or www.legendsshopping.com Photo by Matt Kocourek The Legends at Village West. I-435 Power and Light District Zona Rosa. 1-29 and Barry Road. Shopping, dining and entertainment options are nestled within this upscale Northland district steeped in old-fashioned charm. Shop national chains, watch a movie or fill up at any of the area's restaurants. 816/587-8180 or www.zonarosa.com Spa. R.S.V.P and Sprangler's offer unique gifts, home accessories and stationery. www.prairievillageshops.com Town Center Plaza. 119th between Roe and Nall. This upscale lifestyle center features more than 90 national and specialty shops, including Coldwater Creek, Pottery Barn, Standard Style Boutique, Macy's, AMC Town Center 20 Theaters and several restaurants. 913/498-1111 or www.towncenterplaza.com Downtown Parkville. This picturesque place is a historic riverfront community chock-full of shopping, dining and special events, with antique stores and other specialty shops. There are also unique clothing boutiques, a farmers market, mini golf, concerts, holiday celebrations and carnivals. 816/505-2227 or www.parkvillemo.org Corinth Square. 83rd and Mission. Covering the necessities like a grocery store, tailor and salon, Corinth also encompasses antique shops and women's clothing. There's something for kids and pets, too, at The Learning Tree and Land of Paws. www.corinthsquare.com Tuileries Plaza. I-29 and NW 64th Street. As a mixed-use lifestyle center, Tuileries is an open-air concept with a pedestrian-friendly environment. It hosts more than 30 specialty shops, services and unique restaurants, along with several locally owned boutique retailers like La-de-da and GoLogo Embroidery. 816/531-5303 or www.tuileriesplaza.com Power and Light District. 14th & Main. Downtown Kansas City surges with energy in this vibrant new shopping, dining and entertainment venue. Catch a movie or live performance, shop unique urban boutiques and eat just about anything you like. At night, it turns into a hot party spot. www.powerandlightdistrict.com Prairie Village Shops. 71st and Mission. Find upscale, designer clothes for women at shops like Haught Style and Tulip. There's plenty of fun for children with clothing store Mady & Me and relaxing for mom at Bijin Salon & Day 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY � 81 I N K A N S A S C I T Y Hospital Hunting Searching for the right health care facility is easy in Kansas City. Johnson County, Kan. Children's Mercy South Children's Mercy College Boulevard Clinic KU MedWest Menorah Medical Center Olathe Medical Center Overland Park Regional Medical Center Shawnee Mission Medical Center Saint Luke's South 5808 W. 110th St. 5520 College Blvd. 7405 Renner Road 5721 W. 119th St. 20333 W. 151st St. 10500 Quivira Road 9100 W. 74th St. 12300 Metcalf Ave. 913/696-8000 913/696-8000 913/588-1227 913/498-6000 913/791-4200 913/541-5000 913/676-2000 913/317-7000 www.childrens-mercy.org www.childrens-mercy.org www.kumed.com www.menorahmedicalcenter.com www.olathehealth.org www.oprmc.com www.shawneemission.org www.saintlukeshealthsystem.org Kansas City, Kan. Children's Mercy West Providence Medical Center St. John Hospital (Leavenworth) The University of Kansas Hospital 4313 State Ave. 8929 Parallel Pkwy. 3500 S. 4th St. 3901 Rainbow Blvd. 913/233-4400 913/596-4000 913/680-6000 913/588-1227 www.childrens-mercy.org www.providence-health.org www.providence-health.org www.kumed.com Kansas City, Mo. Children's Mercy Hospital Children's Mercy Teen Clinic Kindred Hospital Kansas City Research Medical Center Research Medical Center Brookside Campus Research Psychiatric Center Saint Joseph Health Center Saint Luke's Hospital of Kansas City Saint Luke's Mid America Heart Institute Truman Medical Center -- Hospital Hill 2401 Gillham Road 4605 Paseo Blvd. 8701 Troost Ave. 2316 E. Meyer Blvd. 6601 Rockhill Road 2323 E. 63rd St. 1000 Carondelet Drive 4401 Wornall Road 4401 Wornall Road 2301 Holmes St. 816/234-3000 816/234-3050 816/995-2000 816/276-4000 816/276-7000 816/444-8161 816/942-4400 816/932-2000 816/932-6220 816/404-1000 www.childrens-mercy.org www.childrens-mercy.org www.kindredhospitalkc.com www.researchmedicalcenter.com www.researchbrookside.com www.researchpsychiatriccenter.com www.carondelethealth.org www.saintlukeshealthsystem.org www.saintlukeshealthsystem.org www.trumed.org Kansas City, Mo. -- East Centerpoint Medical Center St. Mary's Medical Center of Blue Springs 19600 E. 39th St. 201 NW R.D. Mize Road 816/698-7000 816/228-5900 www.centerpointmedical.com www.carondelethealth.org Kansas City, Mo. -- South Cass Regional Medical Center Lee's Summit Medical Center Research Belton Hospital Saint Luke's East -- Lee's Summit Truman Medical Center -- Lakewood 2800 E. Rock Haven 2100 SE Blue Pkwy. 17065 S. 71 Hwy. 100 NE Saint Luke's Blvd. 7900 Lee's Summit Road 818/380-3474 816/282-5000 816/348-1200 816/347-5000 816/404-7000 www.cassmedicalcenter.com www.leessummitmedicalcenter.com www.researchbeltonhospital.com www.saintlukeshealthsystem.org www.trumed.org Kansas City, Mo. -- North Children's Mercy Northland Liberty Hospital North Kansas City Hospital Saint Luke's Northland Hospital Saint Luke's Northland Hospital (Smithville) 501 NW Barry Road 2525 Glenn Hendren Drive 2800 Clay Edwards Drive 5830 NW Barry Road 601 S. 169 Hwy. 816/413-2500 816/781-7200 816/691-2000 816/891-6000 816/532-3700 www.childrens-mercy.org www.libertyhospital.org www.nkch.org www.saintlukeshealthsystem.org 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. Beyond traditional medicine, Kansas City has several holistic health practitioners who focus not necessarily on curing a symptom but 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 making lifestyle choices, such as having an enjoyable form of exercise; a way of de-stressing, such as yoga, meditation or massage; J ust because you've moved to a rather conservative Midwest town doesn't mean you'll be met with only conventional ways of approaching issues -- even when it comes to health care. a proper diet, often arranged by a nutritionist or other wellness specialist; and an adequate balance between social and quiet time. Wellness practitioners do not condemn Western medicine, rather they suggest an integrated approach in which Western medicine and Eastern-based practices go hand-in-hand. "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. She says a typical session with a patient includes getting to know the 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 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 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 network spinal analysis, where the practitioner places his or her hands on the person's neck and sacrum to stimulate the central nervous system. Schaal, a Olathe facilitator for Network Spinal Analysis (or 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 places to receive treatment. Wellness 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. MO V NG WE CAN HELP! View our advertisers online and interact easily and directly with an online representative. Call 913/663-4545 to receive our magazine or visit us at ApartmentFinder.com Ask your realtor for an A.B. May Home Warranty. Save money & protect your home. We'll take care of the hassle and expense of nearly any household problem 24 hours a day.* � Plumbing � Electrical � Heating and Cooling � Major Appliances *subject to terms of agreement Serving Kansas City Since 1959 Call now for your Home Warranty 913-ABMAYKC � 913-226-2952 www.abmay.com 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY � 85 Dave Pleskac... Exceptional service. Exceptional results. Attention to detail, dependability, and integrity are my personal values. FULFILLING YOUR DREAMS IS MY PASSION. Dave Pleskac 913-660-8960 REALTOR REECE & NICHOLS REALTORS Licensed in KS & MO Email: email@example.com www.RealTalkwithDave.com TUNE IN TO REAL TALK with DAVE THE VOICE OF KANSAS CITY REAL ESTATE Try Our Refreshing Lakeside Lifestyle! Bring your own builder homesites From the mid $50' Homes from the $200's to $800's Call today to select your homesite while choice lots are available! Large lots with water views Surrounded by a common area apron. Walking trails throughout 29 35 435 1 Raintree Lake, Lee's Summit 2 KC Chiefs / Royals Stadiums 3. KC, MO Downtown Business District 4. Overland Park, KS Business District 5. KCI Airport 5 70 3 4 435 2 470 70 50 150 35 71 # 1 291 Raintree Realty 937 SW Raintree Drive � Lee's Summit, MO 64082 A Southern Lee's Summit Master Planned Lake Community (816) 537-6656 www.raintreelake.com Now you can get a complete Viking kitchen for one surprisingly affordable price tag. The Designer Series Smart Luxury packages include a gas or electric range, freestanding refrigerator*, dishwasher and a ventilation product. Or you can choose the option of a cooktop with wall oven in place of the range. Stop by a dealer showroom today. *Refrigerator shown with optional top grille accessory. DOOLITTLE DISTRIBUTING INC FACTORY DIRECT APPLIANCE: Lenexa, KS | Kansas City, MO | Lee's Summit, MO | Lawrence, KS | Topeka, KS FERGUSON BATH, KITCHEN & LIGHTING GALLERY: Lenexa, KS REGARDING KITCHENS: Lenexa, KS (913) 888-7820 NEBRASKA FURNITURE MART: Kansas City, KS 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY � 87 I N K A N S A S C I T Y P ets -- like people -- react to change much the same way humans do, and in some ways, a pet's needs are not 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. Don't use sedatives, especially on planes, �iStockphoto/Kristian Sekulic but Dramamine can help them combat motion sickness. 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. 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. You must have a health certificate from your vet to transport an animal this way. Doggie Day Care Mon-Fri 6:30am-5:30pm Sat & Sun 9:30am-3:00pm GROOMING Mon-Fri 6:30am-5:30pm Saturday by appointment BOARDING Seven days a week, No Cages, Large Suites, Day Care Boarders "Play All Day" 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 time your pet ate and drank or had a bathroom break. Come check us out! Canine Seniors Welcome Special TLC Given No charge for meds given Where Dog Gone Good Times Are Had! If you're driving to your new location with your pet, make sure it has access to water and be prepared to stop regularly. Never leave your animal in a car in hot weather, but if you must, purchase grills to put up in place of windows so air can move through the car. Before leaving town, get your pet CALL US TODAY 1220 W. 31st St., K.C., MO Dog's World of Fun www.dogsworldoffun.com Better Business Bureau one last check-up, including vaccinations, medications and records. Drive to the nearest 24-hour emergency 816.931.5822 88 � 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY vet clinic immediately after your move so you are prepared should a situation arise. the next level in home building!! Proud winner of the 2010 Grand Award 1st NAHB Certified IN INDEPENDENCE, MO Green Home I MPROVED AIR QUALITY R ENEWABLE &/ OR RECYCLED DURABLE BUILDING MATERIALS NAHB G REEN C ERTIFICATE (S ILVER R ATING ) A + E NERGY S TAR RATING (H IGHEST A CHIEVABLE ) WATER & ENERGY EFFICIENT PRODUCTS & PRACTICES BUILDING IN THESE PREMIER COMMUNITIES... MEADOWBROOK, Independence, MO � TIMBER CREEK, Independence, MO ROSEWOOD HILLS, Grain Valley, MO � CLEAR CREEK RIDGE, Kearney, MO VILLAGE OF RIVER MEADOWS, Kearney, MO ESTATE LOTS AVAILABLE IN... 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Brotherhood Bank & Trust Capitol Federal Savings / pg. 93 Commerce Bank CommunityAmerica Credit Union CoreFirst Bank & Trust Country Club Bank Farmers Bank & Trust First Bank of Missouri First Community Bank First Federal Bank First National Bank First National Bank of Olathe Gardner National Bank Heartland Bank Hillcrest Bank Industrial State Bank Intrust Bank M&I Bank Metcalf Bank Missouri Bank National Bank of Kansas City Northland National Bank / pg. 94 Peoples Bank Platte Valley Bank Premier Bank Security Bank of Kansas City The Mission Bank Town & Country Bank UMB Bank Union Bank Valley View Bank / pg. 91 90 � 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY 1111 Main St., Kansas City, Mo. 1200 Main St., Kansas City, Mo. 11935 Riley St., Overland Park, Kan. 210 S. Main St., Lee's Summit, Mo. 4200 Little Blue Parkway, Kansas City, Mo. 756 Minnesota Ave., Kansas City, Kan. 9500 Nall Ave., Overland Park, Kan. 922 Walnut, Kansas City, Mo. 9777 Ridge Drive, Lenexa, Kan. 7430 Switzer, Shawnee, Kan. 414 Nichols Road, Kansas City, Mo. 14231 Metcalf Ave., Overland Park, Kan. 7001 N. Oak Trafficway, Gladstone, Mo. 301 SE Main St., Lee's Summit, Mo. 6900 N. Executive Drive, Kansas City, Mo. 6201 College Blvd., Overland Park, Kan. 444 E. Sante Fe St., Olathe, Kan. 840 E. Main St., Gardner, Kan. 4801 Town Center Drive, Leawood, Kan. 11111 W. 95th St., Overland Park, Kan. 3201 Strong Ave., Kansas City, Kan. 4000 Somerset Drive, Prairie Village, Kan. 8840 State Line Road, Leawood, Kan. 7840 Metcalf Ave., Overland Park, Kan. 1044 Main St., Kansas City, Mo. 10700 Nall Ave., Overland Park, Kan. 99 NE 72nd St., Gladstone, Mo. 13180 Metcalf Ave., Overland Park, Kan. 2400 Prairie View Road, Platte City, Mo. 15301 W. 87th Parkway, Lenexa, Kan. 701 Minnesota Ave., Kansas City, Kan. 5201 Johnson Drive, Mission, Kan. 4707 W. 135th St., Leawood, Kan. 1010 Grand Blvd., Kansas City, Mo. 9300 Blue Ridge Blvd., Kansas City, Mo. 7500 W. 95th St., Overland Park, Kan. 816/471-9800 816/979-6677 913/338-1000 816/524-1800 816/358-5000 913/321-4242 913/381-5400 816/234-2619 913/905-7000 913/248-7001 816/931-4060 913/402-7257 816/436-1900 816/554-7000 816/241-7800 913/266-9090 913/782-3211 913/856-7199 913/663-5656 913/324-6400 913/831-2000 913/385-8200 913/693-1600 913/648-4540 816/881-8200 913/905-2100 816/436-3500 913/681-3030 816/858-5400 913/888-8490 913/281-3165 913/831-2400 913/239-0239 816/860-7000 816/763-4400 913/381-3311 www.bankmw.com www.bankofamerica.com www.bankbv.com www.bankofleessummit.com www.blueridgebank.com www.brotherhoodbank.com www.capfed.com www.commercebank.com www.cacu.com www.corefirstbank.com www.countryclubbank.com www.farmersbankna.com www.firstbankmo.com www.fcbankonline.com www.ffbkc.com www.fnbk.com www.fnbolathe.com www.gardnernational.com www.bankwithheartland.com www.hillcrestbank.com www.industrialbankkck.com www.intrustbank.com www.mibank.com www.metcalfbank.com www.mobank.com www.bankofkc.com www.northlandnationalbank.com 37 50 6 4 11 8 22 48 29 3 16 8 10 5 9 7 10 2 3 6 3 4 14 20 4 6 1 9 8 5 11 7 1 43 11 10 www.bankingunusual.com www.plattevalleybank.com www.premier-bk.com www.securitybankkc.com www.themissionbank.com www.town-countrybank.com www.umb.com www.unionbankmo.com www.valleyviewbank.com Classic Craftsmanship, Quality and Integrity Discover the Forner -- LaVoy T RANSPARENCY R IGOROUS A PPROACH C OMMUNICATION ...and Rick Forner & James LaVoy will be your direct contacts throughout our relationship. 913.385.3817 www.fornerlavoy.com C U STO M H O M E S � R E N OVAT I O N S / A D D I T I O N S � T E A R D OW N S 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY � 91 Visit our website and try our Dream Home Calculator to price your dream home! Difference... I N K A N S A S C I T Y Home Advantage An overview of your mortgage options. D the game. 92 � 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY 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 �iStockphoto/Justin Horrocks 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 of distressed properties, this has become an extremely important part of the underwriting process. Get the Yard You'll Love... and your pets will love too! Looks and feels like real grass. No time spent cleaning paws. Liquids drain through surface quickly. Refinancing Another option many current homeowners are turning to is refinancing. With rates still 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. CONTINUED ON PAGE 94 Contact Turf Etc. for a beautiful lawn 365 days a year. 816.886.2747 www.turfetc.com 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY � 93 NORTHLAND NATIONAL BANK HELPING YOU KEEP YOUR FINANCIAL DUCKS IN A ROW. � CONVENIENT Personal Checking Accounts � FLEXIBLE Business Accounts � COMPETITIVE CD Rates � SECURE Individual Retirement Accounts � LOAN SERVICES Available for Family and Business � 24 Hour Phone Line Access � ATM and Debit Card Products According to Hayward, among the issues homeowners may encounter in the refinancing process are: Loan program availability. Many of the programs that were available two and three years ago are simply no longer available. NORTHLAND NATIONAL BANK Gladstone's Only Locally Owned and Operated Independent Bank 99 N.E. 72nd Street � Gladstone, MO 64118 816-436-3500 Located just west of N. Oak on 72nd Street CONVENIENT HOURS: Lobby: Mon-Thurs 9am to 5pm, Fri 9am to 6pm, Sat 9am to 12pm Drive By: Mon-Fri 7am to 6:30pm, Sat 9am to 12pm The homeowner must re-qualify for the home. FICO score guidelines have changed. No more 100-percent financing. Some homeowners have experienced a FDIC INSURED EQUAL HOUSING www.nnb-glad.com LENDER loss in their property value. Looking for Great Design Ideas? Check us out at kchandg.com to subscribe. 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 Jack Boring's, Inc. 877-689-DISH (3474) 1792 E. Kansas City Rd., Olathe, KS 66061 8-5 Mon-Fri than $900,000). With this type of loan, banks typically charge a higher rate to offset risk, appraisals can be difficult because of a lack of comparable sales and declining values, and buyers must have a minimum credit score of 720 for insured loans. www.jackborings.com Since 1943 94 � 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY 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 percent LTV, there may be an increase in applications for consumer home equity lines or closed-end second mortgages to be used 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 product). Combined LTV ratios have typically 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 valuation, especially if the borrower is looking for maximum financing of 95 percent. � � � � � � � � � � Interior/Exterior Cabinet/Furniture Finish Glazing Cabinets/Walls Faux Popcorn Ceilings/ Remove or Paint Power Wash Deck/Fence Stain Concrete Floor Finish Garage Floor Epoxy Wallpaper Removal 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 I N 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 The first step on your homebuilding list is to find the right location. Choose the neighborhood, school district and proximity to work that fit your lifestyle. Factor in the site's landscape, as different shapes and sizes will determine what style of home you can build. Stay open and honest to the suggestions your team of architects and builders makes; remember communication is the key to a successful project, and having the right team to talk to will make the process run smoothly. Ask to talk to a builder's previous clients and see if you can get a walk-through 96 � 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY of their homes. Having references on hand will help you in your selection. All About the Money Dream homes usually aren't cheap, so you must make creating a budget a priority. The amount you have to spend will affect the size, style and materials of your home. For instance, a two-story Williamsburg-style house is simple to build, but adding on wings increases construction cost and utilities bills down the road, says Bruce Wendlandt of Wendlandt & Stallbaumer Architects. Most people know what loan amount they qualify for when starting the homebuilding CONTINUED ON PAGE 98 Photo by John Ogilvie DID YOU KNOW... More than 96% of all homes waste over 40% of their electricity and natural gas due to low building code standards? Discover where your home leaks energy causing you to be uncomfortable and making your energy bills 50% higher than they should be. Get a GreenTech Home Energy Efficiency Analysis Today! Infrared shot of air leaking through an attic hatch. Pinpoint energy waste before you spend a dime on any energy improvements. Get a detailed energy analysis report with prioritized recommendations and return-on-investment analysis. Discover how to get over 47% electric/gas saving and 5-year payback. Increase the value of your new home purchase. Call us about how to get $2,700 in rebates, tax credits and incentives. Mention this ad and receive $50 off an energy analysis or $250 off renovations www.gogtnow.com 913.789.8500 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 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 A Touch of Craft CUSTOM CABINETS | AMAZING DESIGN | BEAUTIFUL CRAFTSMANSHIP It starts here. www.wilsonbuiltcabinets.com 913.269.8803 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, 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 going to do will be supported by the neighborhood," he says. After you've settled on a home, develop a master plan for it, especially if you have multiple projects in mind. A plan will allow you to make an accurate time schedule and set the limitations of your budget. Donna Kirsopp of Schloegel Design Remodel suggests speaking to a design/build firm, which keeps all parties on the same page, 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 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. Please visit our website/blog/facebook page for our monthly specials and project ideas. Twitter.com/SchutteLumberCo Facebook.com/SchutteLumberCompany the mark of responsible forestry. Deep Roots Don't Grow Overnight Kansas City's Lumber Yard For 130 Years 3001 Southwest Boulevard Kansas City, MO 64108 816.753.6262 Notice A Difference On Your Next Utility Bill! Heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer due to insufficient insulation levels in your attic can impact the cost of heating and cooling your home. A Starting Place To find a list of local contractors and remodelers, contact the Home Builders Association (HBA), www.kchba.org; the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI), www.nari.org; or the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA), www.nkba.org. Contact us for a free, no obligation estimate to help stop your heat/loss/gain. $ $ $ TAX CREDIT AVAILABLE $ $ $ Quality workmanship combined with unmatched customer service and competitive pricing. 8320 Westridge Raytown, MO 64138 816.353.2160 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY � 99 I N K A N S A S C I T Y Take the chance to reinvent your design style. R elocating not only brings the excitement of a new city but also the chance to completely redefine home. "That doesn't happen often, but it did in this case, and the client ended up loving the result," she says. Kansas City's design sense varies from city to city and neighborhood to neighborhood. The good news is that the Midwest, particularly Kansas City, is filled with numerous architectural styles that will please the most discerning transplants. While you're acclimating to the scenery outside your door, let an experienced professional help you make your new house feel like home. your home. You can start fresh with a new look or simply tweak your style. Gail Golden, a local interior designer with Hobson Interiors, has firsthand experience with this. She remembers a West Coast client who decided to change her entire style from Art Deco to Country French after visiting a furnished model Helping Hands Finding an interior designer or decorator can be somewhat challenging, especially when you're new to the area. A great resource is the local chapter of the American Society of Interior Designers. Find a list of professionals at www.asidmowestks.org. CONTINUED ON PAGE 102 100 � 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY Photo by James Maidhof Brand New Day 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 Connect with us on Living Large Facebook fan page karenmariemills If you'd like a more personal experience, particularly when a homeowner is starting over, they want a home built to their specifications with creative built-ins and expansive, wide-open floor plans. We're seeing clients who are thinking outside the box, opting for `flex plans' featuring multiuse rooms, i.e., the dining room doubling as a music room and a library or extra bedroom used as an office. Also in demand are front porches, outdoor rooms off the kitchen (especially beneficial if a fireplace is included), multiple colors and a variety of materials used on exterior surfaces," Lober says. That sentiment is echoed by both Reike and Lober, who agree that the burnished Tuscan interior that flourished throughout the past decade is now on the wane. Currently, brights are right and neutrals are still a natural. Cherie Brown, kitchen designer with Kitchens by Kleweno, notes, "While there's still a nod toward traditional styles, there's interest in the unexpected. We are seeing clients who want the dark, rich, almost black cherry or maple woods for floor and cabinetry combined with a pop of color sometimes in the wall color or tile. I recently completed a kitchen with dark wood floors and cabinets then accented with an intense orange glass backsplash." Stylist Karen Ladish has never been afraid to use color. "Color lends bounce and gives you a lift," she says. Golden exemplified this in her 2009 KCH&G Boulevard of Dreams homes project in which she used a range of spirited, coastal colors from apple green and white to sunny yellow and blue-green recommendation, your real estate agent, architect or builder can usually give you a referral. After touring a model home, that's just how Chris and Julie Radford, who relocated from San Diego, found their designer. Builder Brian Koehler referred them to Carla Rieke, an interior designer with Madden-McFarland Interiors, who the couple says really listened to them and helped them define their look. "Jumping up in size from 3,600 square feet to approximately 6,000 square feet was pretty dramatic, so having Carla's ability to assist us with decorating was critical," Julie says. Step Inside Although the revered styles of classic design are being embraced around the metro, interiors are evolving. "I'm seeing fresh, light and cleaner color preferred to the earthy jewel tones that have dominated the palette for so many years," says Gail Morse, interior designer for Don Julian Homes. Making It Yours Lori Lober, co-owner of Provence Homes Inc. with her husband, John, acknowledges that it's the design of a house, how it's decorated inside and out, that helps homeowners turn it into a home. "In our CUSTOM WINE CELLARS REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS CELLAR ART RACKING KITS CUSTOM DOORS UNITED MOSQUITO & FLY CONTROL We Specialize in All Heart Redwood Racking Systems Finally, a solution that actually WORKS for control of flies & mosquitoes in your barn! � Let United Mosquito & Fly Control design and install a complete fly control system for your equine facility. � We provide full service on existing systems. � Professional, courteous, licensed and experienced. MICHELLE HOLBROOK -- DESIGN CONSULTANT email@example.com 816.797.8085 CALL US TODAY! 913-558-3814 � www.unitedkc.com Ask about our residential services too. 102 � 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY spearmint. "Just like in the movies, color gives us a happy ending," she says. FEATURING ARTIST JACK BONGIOVANNI 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 a community of our choice filled with countless possibilities." � Conservation & Specialty Framing using a Wide Selection of Beautiful Frames (Needlework, Shadowboxes, Diplomas, Children's Artwork, Memorabilia) � Classic to Contemporary, Local, Original & Ltd Edition Art H Consider these tips as you furnish your new home merica's eartland allery A G 3645 W. 95th Street in Ranchmart South Overland Park (913) 341-2661 www.ahgframing.com Excellence in Framing & Customer Satisfaction Since 1976! 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? 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY � 103