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Information on Wichita Homes for Sale, for sale by owner, MLS Wichita Homes, Wichita foreclosures, Wichita mortgage, rental Wichita, Laurie Huhman, Real Estate Agent Wichita, Plaza Real Estate 12316 Points

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  • Wichita Homes for Sale-Laurie Huhman, Wichita Real Estate Agent with Plaza Real Estate
Price Reduced on 8315 W. Conrey Ct in Tyler's Landing

Tyler's Landing, Wichita  -  Announcing a price reduction on 8315 W. Conrey Ct, a 4 bath, 4 bdrm single story "Finished Basment". Now MLS® $197,000 - Excellent Price!.  Desirable Tylers Landing neighborhood right across from Maize South Middle School.   Don't miss out on this beautiful home, call today for your showing 316-409-1006, Laurie Huhman

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Unique Old Town Wichita Property

Majestic Building
Downtown Wichita Gem

• 9,450 sq. ft. single story - MLS® $3,500,000

 Cool Old Town Location. Could be Commercial or Residential. This was a Church that has been completely rebuilt inside and out. Literally everything is new and top quality. All work was professionally done. 5 zones heating/cooling. The theater room is better quality than any commercial theater in Wichita. Complete equipment list will be provided to serious buyers. Lots of extra features...such as master bedroom contains bedroom with fireplace, additional sitting room and additional dressing room. Two well equipped kitchens. An additional 50x50 lot owned with this property. Theater is 2600 sq ft, viewing screen is 12x9.15000 Lumina projector. Finest acoustical building in Wichita. Seller and Seller's agent will be present for all showings and Qualified buyers only. Very unique property, contact Laurie Huhman for more information! 316.409.1006

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Derby Home for Sale

Great Shaded yard

• 1,508 sq. ft., 3 bdrm single story - MLS® $90,000 

Charming Derby home in nice neighborhood. Desirable small town life with great Derby schools, close to McConnell Air Force Base. Nice wood floors and Large fenced back yard. Cozy Wood burning fireplace in living room/dining room. The unfinished basement may get some water seapage in heavy rains. Nice and clean and waiting for your family!!!!  Contact Laurie Huhman for more information 316.409-1006

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Wichita Homes for Sale-What Does Fed Rate Cut Mean?

Wichita Homes for Sale-What Does Fed Rate Cut Mean?

Sometimes I really wonder if anyone in Washington knows what is going on in REAL America....So today the Fed slashes interest rates 3/4 percent, which should be really good news right?   Is this going to get the housing market moving again?   I don't know if anyone cares what a Real Estate Agent in Wichita KS has to say about the issue but here are my thoughts....

 Basically what I see is that our local Wichita market is stalled because people are concerned about the economy and are holding onto their money.  Times are uncertain and no one feels it's time to make a big purchase.  A major financial decision like buying a Wichita home in times like these is not easy to do.  In order to give consumers confidence and motivation to buy again, we need 3 basic things-

*Low Interest Rates:   Well interest rates for home loans are already low-how about 5% for an FHA loan with only 3% down?   If you have great credit you can get a Wichita mortgage today at 4.625%.   These are HISTORIC lows- low, low, low.   And yet, Wichita Home Buyers are still not confident enough to pull the trigger and begin buying again.   It may take interest rates in the low 4's to jump start Buyers motivation.  

*Downpayment Assistance!   In a "typical" real estate market (before the credit crisis) homebuyers were able to have access to a few different types of downpayment assistance programs.   For example, Wichita Home Buyers used to be able to take advantage of Bond money assistance for FHA home loans that would eliminate the need to come up with cash for the downpayment.   I have found that some people who want to Buy a home in Wichita can qualify for the loan but are unable to come up with the downpayment.

 -I know you may be thinking isnt that what got us into this mess in the first place?   Partly it is, but the loans that got us into this mess were loans for 100% of the purchase price  and the Buyers had NO money in the transaction.   We also had refinance loans that granted borrowers up to 120% of the value of their home-making that homeowner upside down on the home, try selling your house for more than it's worth!  And then there were the adjustable rate mortgage loans that doubled and tripled mortgage payments plus the interest only loans that also added to the problem.  

I am humbly suggesting that those who want to purchase a home should be required to have their own money in the transaction but still need some assistance to become homeowners.    This was the purpose of Bond Money programs and it worked quite well until all the bond investors went away.   This is the reality of the world we live in.   First time homebuyers need assistance in purchasing that first home.

*Realistic yet Fiscally Responsible Lending!  Yes, we have a credit crisis!  Our lending institutions have gone from one extreme to another.   First throwing money at anyone who could breathe and now making good credit risks jump through ridiculous hoops to get a mortgage.   We are in a period of adjustment and we need to get back to middle ground-realistic yet fiscally responsible mortgage lending.  

 I ask that Washington lawmakers and the Fed lend an ear to Realtors across this country who are in the trenches and on the front line.   Would it be so difficult to talk to real Americans instead of lobbyists?   We may be able to brainstorm some solutions.   And to my fellow Realtors I would like to express how proud I am that we collectively have behaved professionally in the face of difficult times.  We are not crying for a handout from Congress, we are adjusting our business plans and our business activities and attempting to assist our clients in the face of a barrage of negativity from the media.

I do have hope that the new year will bring new solutions, possibly lower mortgage rates, realistic credit standards and downpayment assistance!

 

Wichita Homes for Sale-Bargain Hunters Market!

Wichita Homes for Sale-Bargain Hunters Market!

Have you heard the expression "Buy Low, Sell High"?   Well now is the time in the Wichita Home Buyers Market to Buy Low, hold onto your real estate for a few years and Sell High!   If you are looking for Wichita Homes for sale there are many bargains to be found.   Interest rates are low and Wichita homes for sale are abundant so there are lots of choices, making this a Buyer’s Market.   According the the Wall Street Journals digital network Buyers will be returning to the market in 2009.  Click here to read more- Buyers Market.

While some loan programs are no longer available, FHA loans still are and they are not just for First Time Wichita Homebuyers-any Homebuyer can qualify.  FHA loans require little down payment and you can also use gift funds for your down payment.   There is another loan program for Rural properties that does not require any Down Payment.  As an experienced Wichita Realtor, I make it my mission to know the Wichita market and financing options for Wichita real estate.  

For more information on finding a Bargain Wichita Home for Sale, just visit Wichita Homes for Sale or send me an email!

LaurieStar

Price Reduced on 1017 S. Bracken in Woodland Lakes

Woodland Lakes, Wichita  -  Announcing a price reduction on 1017 S. Bracken, a 2,622 sq. ft., 3 bath, 4 bdrm single story. Now MLS® $185,000 - Drastically Reduced!!!.

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Single Story For Sale in Quail Crossing

Lovely Front Entrance
Gorgeous Nearly New Home-Move-in Ready

• 2,363 sq. ft., 3 bath, 4 bdrm single story - MLS® $185,000 - So Much for So Little!!!

 -  Wow-This home is fantastic! Desirable Quail Crossing Neighborhood close to Andover schools. Move-in Ready, this open floorplan features a cozy fireplace,tile flooring in the large dining room and the kitchen is a dream with spotless black kitchen appliances, eating bar & plenty of counter space. Watch the gameat your house in the large walk-out basement with WET BAR & PROJECTION SCREEN TV system with surround sound!!!
The master bedroom is a peacefulretreat with coffered ceiling and the master bathroom features a jacuzzi tub for relaxing after a hard day of work. This home is priced to sell-your pickyBuyers will love it! This property IS eligible for 100% financing with the Rural Housing Program. Sellers have already had home inspected by Macon HomeInspection on 7/23/08, minor repairs noted will be fixed prior to closing. Report available to potential Buyers!

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For Sale by Owner Wichita-Is the MLS the "magic" pill?

 For Sale by Owner Wichita-Is the MLS the "magic" pill?

Some Wichita homesellers have considered trying a For Sale by Owner route to get there home Sold.   There is the perception that a Wichita Realtor is just going to put a sign in the yard, put the home in the MLS and then you won't ever hear from them-and let's face it, there are some inexperienced Agents out there who may do just that and heck, can't you do that yourself just as easily these days?   

Well, the answer is yes, if you choose the For Sale by Owner route in Wichita-you can do that.    For a minimum investment and a lot of your personal time, you can put a sign in the yard, pay a fee to list it in the MLS and wait for a Buyer.  However, the MLS is just one tool an experienced Realtor would use to get your Wichita home Sold and knowing how to maximize it's power is crucial.   There are many other marketing tools a Realtor will use to sell your home, along with negotiating skills and prequalifying potential Buyers.   If you are still thinking of trying a For Sale by Owner in Wichita;  

Consider this...

So far in 2008 there were 2162 homes that were listed in the Wichita MLS that DID NOT SELL before the Listing Agreement Expired.   

Obviously just listing a home in the MLS, is not the "Magic" pill for a For Sale by Owner home.   Knowing the market, how to price a home, stage a home, negotiate the contract all contribute to getting you the most money for your Wichita home in the shortest amount of time.    Hiring the RIGHT  Wichita Realtor saves you time, money and heartache.

If you would like more information on For Sale By Owners in Wichita, visit my website at www.mywichitahome.com and click on the "For Sale by Owner" link on the left hand side.

Single Story For Sale in Forest Lakes

Front of Home
Lots of Upgrades in this Home

• 2,785 sq. ft., 3 bath, 4 bdrm single story "Ranch with Walk-Out Basement" - MLS® $223,900 - Best Buy in Forest Lakes!

 -  Fantastic Northwest Wichita Home in Forest Lakes-Maize School District! Welcome home to this 4 Bedroom home in Forest Lakes-located in the highlycoveted Maize School District! From the moment you walk in you feel welcome.The lovely entry greets your guests and welcomes them into the spaciousliving room. You will immediately notice the cozy fireplace with decorator finishes. You can enjoy those special family gatherings in the lovely formal diningroom and the stunning kitchen features a sunny eating area, stainless appliances plus lots of cabinets and counter space. The master suite is your soothingretreat with a master bath featuring a large soaker tub and a separate shower. The walk-in closet is well organized with plenty of room for him & her. Enjoythe large walk-out basement with a wet bar and space for a pool table-great for all your parties! The basement features another cozy fireplace to warm thingsup and great views from all the windows. This home is lovely and well cared for also has LOW taxes, Dont pay all those high special taxes! The Special Taxes on this home payoff in 3 Years, which will drop the monthly payment by $252.00 per month! No Down Payment Loans are Still available, call Laurie for details and get into your Wichita Home today. (315.409.1006)

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Wichita Homes for Sale-Helping Buyers get Pre-Approved for a Home Loan

Wichita Homes for Sale-Helping Buyers get Pre-Approved for a Home Loan:

Getting pre-approved prior to shopping for your Wichita Home...
It's really important in the Wichita market to visit your financial or lending institution prior to buying your Wichita home.   One benefit of this is that quickly you’ll know the amount of mortgage you’ll receive. This will allow you to search for your Wichita home in the right price range.   Most importantly, you’ll tell Wichita sellers that you are a serious prospect. Depending upon Wichita market conditions, a Wichita seller may lean towards an unconditional offer. You’ll have less negotiating power if you have not gotten pre-approved first, you may even lose out on your Wichita dream home.

Wichita Banks and financial institutions have developed many programs especially for Wichita home buyers, be that first-time buyers or those with equity in their homes. If you need a referral to an esperienced, professional Wichita Home Lender, contact me-I work with the best!

Real Estate Wichita Homes for Sale-July 2008 Report

 Real Estate Wichita Homes for Sale-July 2008 Report

 In the Wichita Real Estate Market, Time is Money.  The longer your home sits on   the market, the more money it costs the Seller.  With that in mind, I have decided to provide monthly statistics on Wichita Homes for Sale.   These are based on single-family homes in the Wichita area.

  • The total number of homes listed was 819
  • The total number Sold was 566
  • The percentage of homes that actually Sold was 69.11%
  • The Sale Price vs the List Price of the homes ratio was 98.58%
  • The average Days on the Market was 57
  • The percentage of homes listed where the listing expired was 16.61%

If you have any additional questions about the Wichita Real Estate Market and Wichita Homes for Sale, send me an email or give me a call.  

 

Open House in West Wichita on Sunday

August 2008
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West Wichita, Wichita  -  We invite everyone to visit our open house at 1114 N. Aksarben on August 24 from 2:00 AM to 4:00 AM.

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Wichita Homes for Sale-Where to Live in Wichita

Wichita Homes for Sale-Where to Live in Wichita (edit/delete)

Wichita Homes for Sale-Where to Live in Wichita

Every city has a personality and Wichita is no different.   Many people have described it as a Big "Small Town" and it does have that feeling.   Having grown up in Wichita and attended it's schools, churches and community events I feel I am somewhat of an expert on it's neighborhoods.  So if you want to know where to live, here's the skinny...

Wichita is unofficially divided into East Wichita and West Wichita with areas South and North as well.   The majority of growth and housing is continuing to move to the East and West.  One reason for this is the desirable school districts in the towns of Andover (to the East) and Maize (to the West).   Families looking for great schools and affordable housing have created a demand in these areas and homes continue to increase in value.   Shopping, Churches, Schools and Restaurants are all conveniently located in East and West Wichita.                 

West Wichitans have a reputation for being down-to-earth, sensible people.   Many farm communites exist to the West of Wichita and people on this side of town expect good service at a fair price.   Family life and community events are important to all Wichita families and West Siders are no exception.   As the city of Wichita has grown it has spread West so there are fewer established neighborhoods and more new suburban developments.   Most West Wichita neighborhoods feature neighborhood pools and parks.

East Wichita in contrast has lots of well established neighborhoods with rambling ranch homes on large lots.   As families have migrated to the suburbs there are also lots of new developments to choose from offering many price ranges and amenities.   East Wichita is also known for more "high-end" shopping and dining.

Wichita also has a thriving Downtown with the popular area of Old Town which features bars, restaurants and shopping all within walking distance of each other. Old Town is an area with brick streets and old warehouses that have been converted to lofts, shops, art galleries, clubs and restaurants.  

Whatever your lifestyle Wichita has something to offer everyone!   If you would like more information on housing options or Wichita life, visit my website at www.mywichitahome.com or send me an email, I'd love to hear from you!

Open House in Woodland Lakes on Sunday

August 2008
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Woodland Lakes, Wichita  -  We invite everyone to visit our open house at 1017 S. Bracken on August 3 from 2:00 AM to 4:00 AM.  Awesome Home-come see.

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Single Story For Sale in West Wichita

Large Lake Lot!
Buy For No Money Down!

• 2,191 sq. ft., 3 bath, 4 bdrm single story "Open Ranch " - MLS® $149,900 - Excellent Price/Maize Sch

 -  You Will Absolutely LOVE this Home! Almost Brand New on a Great Lake Lot. Such a peaceful view of the lake is waiting for you from the window of the living room while you relax by the cozy fireplace. Enjoy your coffee in the morning sitting at the kitchen table and looking out at the water. The kitchen features upgraded appliances, lots of counter space and tons of cabinets, plus a pantry! As you walk down the hallway to the main floor bedrooms (3 of them!) you will fall in love with the Master Suite. With it's large picture window framing the lakeview perfectly. The Master Bath features a walk-in closet, built-in linen closet and double sinks-perfect for those busy mornings. The laundry is also on the main-floor so you don't have to walk up and down those stairs! And if you are looking for a HUGE basement, this is the one! Large family room plus an area for the kids playroom, or pool table, or bar! There is also another large bedroom and full bathroom in the basement, perfect for visitors. And if you need more room, there is another unfinished bedroom. This home is in a wonderful neighborhood- Close to everything in Northwest Wichita!- YMCA, New Market Square Shopping, Restaurants and the Warren Theatre. BARGAIN priced at $149,900 and there are still loan programs available for you to buy a home with No Money Down. Call or Email Laurie today for all the details! (316) 409-1006

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