Relocating In Kansas City 2011 by Network Communications, Inc.

We Will Exceed Your Expectations!

THE MULLER

TEAM • More than 47 years experience • Licensed in both Kansas and Missouri • Expertise of properties in all price ranges • Top team of Reece & Nichols Town Center Office 2003, 2004, 2008 & 2009 • Award for Excellence 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008 & 2009 From left to right: Linda McGuinn, Charlene Muller and Shawn Muller

Have you decided to move to a new home? THE MULLER TEAM will make selling your current home and finding your new home stress free. 1 1 5 0 0 G r a n a d a • L eawood, KS 66211

913.266.5426 Cell: 816.536.9302 Web: www.MullerTeam.com Email: CharleneMuller@ReeceAndNichols.com

MITATION IS THE HIGHEST FORM OF FLATTERY…

WE ARE OFTEN FLATTERED!

NEW HOME CONSTRUCTION

H I S T O R I C R E S T O R AT I O N

REMODELING

Waterford Construction Company LLC 26

YEARS OF EXPERIENCE

913.432.7123 | 913.205.5255 | broberts5@kc.rr.com |

www.waterfordconstructionkc.com

I N

K A N S A S

C I T Y

Publisher

K E ITH SAU RO Editor-in-Chief

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12 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY

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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

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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.

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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

C O N T E N T S

A Kansas City State of Mind

Growing Cities

Going for the Greens

Numbers You Need

The Best Established Neighborhoods

Retail Therapy

Kansas City Metro Area Map

Your New Home Community Guide

Hospital Hunting

10 Places to Go in Kansas City

Maintenance-Provided Communities

Alternative Health Care

Community Spotlight: Falcon Valley

Lofts, Condos and Urban Living

Moving Your Pets

Making the Move

Your Kansas City Rental Guide

Money Matters

The State(s) of Business

Back to School

Home Advantage

Finding a New Job

Good School Guide

Building Your Dream Home

Stretching Your Dollar

Finding the Right Day Care

100

Redesigning Your Style

The Counties of Kansas City

14 â&#x20AC;˘ 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY

E d i t o r ’s M e s s a g e | K A N S A S

By Andrea Darr

C I T Y

Photo courtesy of Wallstreet Towers

I N

How one of the last places you thought you’d live will become the first place you’ll never want to leave. ’ve often heard of Kansas and Missouri (and the Midwest in

an easy-to-navigate airport, myriad housing options, top schools,

general) as the “fly-over” states. As in, there’s nothing worth

exceptional dining establishments, fabulous shopping, and beautiful

stopping for in between the east and west coasts, so keep the

parks and boulevards.

relocators are in for a pleasant surprise.

Unfortunately, we are one of the fatter cities in America; we have a

plane going. Having lived in Kansas City my whole life, I think

I’m not saying our rosy city doesn’t have a thorn or two.

At the heart of this great country, the people make the place. Some

largely underused public transportation system (we love the freedom

of the most famous faces hailing from our borders include President

of our cars!); we’re ranked No. 1 among the 100 largest metropolitan

Harry Truman, actress Ginger Rogers and golfer Tom Watson, to

areas for airborne pollen and mold spores; and we’re not exactly

name a few.

trendsetters. Things happen on the coasts and eventually make their way inward to us.

“I think once you spend a little time here, you’ll feel at home. Welcome to Kansas City!”

But being in the middle of America doesn’t mean that we are in the middle of nowhere. Location is one of KC’s best attributes. In fact, we are poised to have the best access to anywhere in the world: one hour to Chicago, three hours to Houston, four hours to New York, four hours to L.A., and from these places, anywhere. One of my favorite quotes comes to mind: “A man can travel the world over and find what he was looking for at home.” No matter how grand a time I might have when traveling, my thoughts wander their

We are famous for our barbecue, jazz, friendliness and staunch support of our football team, the Chiefs. We have miles of uncrowded highways __ more than enough for our short commutes — 16 • 2011 RELOCATING TO KANSAS CITY

way back here. Kansas City just feels like home. I think once you spend a little time here, you’ll feel that way, too. Welcome to Kansas City __ make yourself at home!

I N

K A N S A S

C I T Y

Numbers You Need electric

trash/recycling

MANY PARTS OF THE METRO AREA

GREATER KANSAS CITY AREA

Black Hills Energy: 888/890-5554 or

Allied Waste: 816/254-1470 or

high-speed Internet/ digital phone/cable and satellite services (continued)

www.blackhillsenergy.com

www.kc.disposal.com

PARTS OF CASS COUNTY, MO

Kansas City Power & Light: 816/471-5275 or

Deffenbaugh Industries: 913/631-3300 or

Galaxy Cablevision: 800/365-6988 or

www.kcpl.com

www.deffenbaughindustries.com

www.galaxycable.com

Westar Energy: 800/383-1183 or

Hickman Disposal Service: 913/831-2072 or

KCNet: 816/221-4658 or www.kcnet.com

www.westarenergy.com

www.hickmandisposal.com

People PC: 866/772-6277 or www.peoplepc.com

KANSAS CITY, KS

post office

WESTERN WYANDOTTE COUNTY

Board of Public Utilities: 913/573-9000 or

KANSAS CITY METRO AREA

AND DOUGLAS COUNTY, KS

www.bpu.com

800/275-8777 or www.usps.gov

Sunflower Broadband: 800/869-1214 or

INDEPENDENCE

high-speed Internet/ digital phone/cable and satellite services

KANSAS CITY METRO

WYANDOTTE COUNTY AND PARTS OF

877/722-3755 (DSL) or www.att.com

www.sunflowerbroadband.com Independence Power & Light: 816/325-7930 or www.ci.independence.mo.us/pl

AT&T: 800/331-0500 (phone)

PLATTE & CLAY COUNTIES

METRO KANSAS; IN MISSOURI PARTS OF

Platte-Clay Electric Cooperative: 816/628-3121

CLAY, CASS AND BATES COUNTIES

KANSAS CITY METRO AND

or www.pcec.coop

Charter Communications: 888/438-2427 or

LEAVENWORTH, KS

www.charter.com

Time Warner: 816/358-8833, 913/682-2113 or

gas

www.timewarnercable.com

KANSAS CITY, KS AND PORTIONS OF

INDEPENDENCE, PARTS OF CASS,

JOHNSON COUNTY

JACKSON AND LAFAYETTE COUNTIES IN

JOHNSON AND WYANDOTTE COUNTIES

Atmos Energy: 888/286-6700 or

MISSOURI, AND OLATHE, KS

IN KANSAS, AND SOUTH AND

www.atmosenergy.com

Comcast: 816/795-1100, 800/266-2278 or

EASTERN MISSOURI METRO

www.comcast.com

Vonage: 800/980-1455 or www.vonage.com

Kansas Gas Service: 800/794-4780 or

KANSAS CITY METRO

water

www.kgas.com

CenturyLink: 877/290-5458 or

KANSAS CITY, KS

www.centurylink.com

Board of Public Utilities: 913/573-9000 or

PARTS OF THE METRO

DirecTV: 888/777-2454 or www.directv.com

www.bpu.com

United Cities Gas Co.: 866/298-1514

Dish Network: 800/823-4929 or

or www.connectutilities.com

www.dishnetwork.com

KANSAS CITY, MO

Black Hills Energy: 888/890-5554 or

Earthlink: 800/327-8454 or www.earthlink.net

KCMO Water Services Department: 816/513-1313

www.blackhillsenergy.com

SureWest: 913/825-2882 or

or www.kcmo.org/water

Atmos Energy: 888/286-6700 or

www.surewest.com

JOHNSON COUNTY

www.atmosenergy.com

PORTIONS OF JOHNSON COUNTY Water District #1 of Johnson County:

KANSAS CITY, MO Missouri Gas Energy: 816/756-5252 or www.missourigasenergy.com Atmos Energy: 888/286-6700 or www.atmosenergy.com 18 â&#x20AC;˘ 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY

913/895-1800 or www.waterone.org

Lake Quivira

I N

K A N S A S

C I T Y

Liberty Memorial

Liberty Memorial Originally dedicated on November 11, 1926, the restored museum and tower were rededicated and reopened on May 25, 2002, followed by two more expansions. A secondphase addition included a 230-seat auditorium and an education center beneath the memorial. The final phase was a 30,000-square-foot museum expansion below the tower. Recognized by Congress as our country’s only WWI monument, the Liberty Memorial has the largest and most comprehensive collection of World War I artifacts, relics and

Photo by Alistair Tutton

archival materials in the world.

Power & Light District

10 Places to Go in Kansas City On both sides of the state line, the metro offers a multitude of cultural and entertainment options. Power & Light District

Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts The internationally known design team of Moshe Safdie & Associates, Theatre Projects Consultants and Nagata Acoustics will provide the backdrop for performances by local arts organizations when this stunning building opens fall 2011. Patrons will enjoy a 1,800-seat proscenium theater designed for touring Broadway shows, concerts and comedians, as well as the Kansas City Ballet and the Lyric Opera.

The vibrant eight-block district is a

Kansas City Wizards Soccer Stadium

primary revitalizing force for downtown

The Wizards’ new soccer stadium, slated to

Kansas City Symphony and performances

Kansas City, Mo. Think broad streets, open

open summer 2011 in Kansas City, Kan.,

by other mid-size musical organizations.

storefronts, boutique retailers, a generous

will be the first soccer stadium in North

Along with the center’s approximate

helping of restaurants, a gourmet grocery

America to combine attributes of European

285,000 square feet, a 1,000-space parking

store and an outdoor performance area.

and South American soccer stadia with

garage also will become part of the complex.

A 1,600-seat concert hall will host the

The project features more than half a

modern amenities that American fans love.

million square feet of hip and unique retail,

It joins the Kansas Speedway and the

restaurants and entertainment. One block of

Community America Ballpark at Village

The Bloch Building at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art

the district features Kansas City Live!,

West for sports fans.

Acclaimed architect Steven Holl’s glass

which is designed for music and festivals. 22 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY

lenses are the competition-winning addition

collaborated to design the 18,500-seat Sprint Center, opened fall 2007. Ellerbe Becket, Populous (formerly HOK), 360 Architecture and Rafael Architects Inc. — collectively known as the Downtown Arena Design Team (DADT) — designed the glass structure to reflect the downtown skyline. The cornerstone of downtown’s revitalization, the Sprint Center hosts basketball, hockey, concerts, family shows and special events.

to the original neoclassical Nelson-Atkins

exhibition space, the museum offers arts

College Basketball Experience and National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame

building. Composed of five interconnected

education opportunities for both children

As part of the $276 million Sprint Center,

structures as opposed to a single massive

and adults.

the College Basketball Experience and

The Bloch Building at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art

expansion, the design might be Holl’s

National Collegiate Basketball Hall of

greatest professional achievement. Opened

Schlitterbahn Vacation Village

Fame celebrate the history of men’s

June 2007, the addition offers new spaces

The popular Texas-based water parks

collegiate basketball. It honors coaches,

and angles unparalleled by almost any other

opened in Kansas in 2009. The newest

players and contributors who have made

structure in the Midwest. Though a style

addition to the chain continues construction

an impact on the game. A museum and

departure from the existing structure, the

on additional phases on a 370-acre track

interactive adventure alike, visitors are

Bloch Building — named in honor of

near Village West in Kansas City, Kan. The

able to work with hands-on exhibits and

longtime benefactor and museum trustee,

water park’s first phase includes tubing

experience basketball like never before.

Henry Bloch, and his wife, Marion —

slides, chutes, rivers, beaches and other

complements renovations to the original

unique features like the Storm Blaster,

Independence Events Center

museum building, picturesque lawn and

Loopy Luge mat slide and Henry’s Hideout.

Home of the Missouri Mavericks hockey

sculpture park.

Future phases will include more water rides,

team, the center opened in November 2009

River Walk attractions, and shopping, dining

as a 5,800-seat, multipurpose arena hosting

Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art

and lodging venues.

approximately 100 events a year, including

Sprint Center

events, concerts and community events.

architect Kyu Sung Woo, the Nerman

Kansas City is a major hub of sports

There’s also a community ice rink within

Museum opened spring 2007 on the Johnson

architecture firms, and four of them

the center.

trade shows, festivals, professional sporting

County Community College campus in Overland Park. Supported by and named in honor of local art collectors Jerome and Margaret Nerman, the 36,000-square-foot Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art is a departure from the college’s mostly brick façade. The Nerman family donated $1.5 million to help establish the glass and limestone addition, which adjoins the new Regnier Center for Technology and Business, designed by local firm Gould Evans Architects. In addition to providing

Schlitterbahn Vacation Village

2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY • 23

Custom Building Without the High Price

elocators will find that Kansas City’s housing prices are already some of the most reasonable in the country. Topping that, custom build jobs at communities like the Falcon

Properties can give you exactly what you want for less than you would expect. Want to backup to a golf course? No problem. Looking for a walkout lot that backs to a forest or lake? They’ve got plenty of both. Need enough space for the kids to play and for you to get away and relax? Welcome home! The Falcon Properties, marketed by Reece and Nichols, are a collection of upscale communities around the metro that feature high-quality homes that are reasonably priced in neighborhoods complete with pools, golf courses, clubhouses and more. Developer Kaivan Ferzandi says most homes in the Falcon neighborhoods start in the lower $300,000s and include popular

Falcon Valley

amenities like granite countertops, wrought iron spindles, hardwood

Falcon Valley continuously garners great press for its award-wining

floors and three-car garages. But, as Ferzandi adds, “We don’t have

golf course. In the February 2010 issue of Golf World, it was named

‘standard features.’ It’s about how far you want to go to personalize

14th out of the “25 Best 9-Hole Courses in America.” The championship

the home.”

course is only one of many amenities the community provides its

To get started finding your new dream home, read on to find out about a few of the Falcon Properties.

residents as well as a beautiful clubhouse, sport court, pool and two lakes. Additionally, the neighborhood children attend top-rated schools: Manchester Park, Prairie Trail Junior High and Olathe Northwest. Falcon Valley is located in an area of booming development as locals decide to move outside the city limits but maintain close access to several major highway arteries; K-10, I-435, I-35 and I-69 are literally just minutes away. “Area residents have commented how glad they are that they’ve chosen Falcon Valley for their home and how convenient it is to get around the area,” notes Christyne Doherty, the onsite agent. Homes range in price from the upper $300,000s to the upper $600,000s and will contain 320 homes when complete. There are prime home sites available, both golf course and interior, starting in the $60,000s to the mid $100,000s. Buyers are free to choose a builder of their liking. Call 913/780-9004 for more information.

24 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY

Falcon Village For buyers who want to downsize space but not downgrade amenities, Falcon Village may be the perfect solution. Inside the attached twin villas, buyers will find the best materials seen in luxury homes, such as crown molding, iron spindles and granite countertops. “We’ve found that people still want the high-end materials they’re used to, and they’re really surprised at the quality they see here,” says onsite agent Ken McDaniel. Moreover, because neighbors share a wall, the builder poured an extra-wide foundation wall to ensure quiet; R-38 insulation in the attic is another extra step the builder took to lower utility bills.

Falcon Lakes, Falcon Lakes Villas and The Fairways at Falcon Lakes Falcon Lakes is a showplace of natural beauty embracing rolling terrain, wooded retreats and a 54-acre lake. Homes starting in the low $300,000s surround the 18-hole championship golf course, designed by Carter Morrish of Morrish and Associates. Amenities include tennis and basketball courts and a large swimming pool. Many highquality home builders are available, or buyers may use their own with the approval of the developer. The community’s builders are ready and willing to be flexible with materials and floor plan layout, resulting in a variety of styles — and price points. Walk-out lots and golf course lots start in the $60,000s, and golf course and lake lots peak in the $90,000s. “One of the great things about Falcon Lakes is the opportunity to All the work of lawn care, snow-removal and exterior painting is left

build at any price point,” says onsite agent April Jackson. “With such

to the maintenance crews. A shopping area within walking distance

diversity in price, Falcon Lakes is an opportunity for almost any buyer.”

includes an eye doctor, dentist, bank, veterinary clinic, dry cleaners,

Falcon Lakes Villas is a maintenance-provided community, which

liquor store, fitness center, tanning salon, grocery store and pharmacy.

includes lawn care and snow removal, with homes starting in the low

Located between fairways seven and eight of the Falcon Valley

$300,000s and up. The Fairways are built on golf course, walk-out

Golf Course, residents still have the beautiful views of the greens and

and treed lots and feature a variety of floor plans from the low

optional use of the pool for a nominal annual fee. Outdoor enthusiasts

$300,000s. According to Jackson, it’s an excellent price point in a golf

also will appreciate the City of Lenexa’s extensive biking trail that

course community.

runs nearby.

In addition to the luxury of home, residents enjoy the luxury of

Floor plans include reverse 1.5-story and ranch homes. Prices

seclusion. Falcon Lakes is located in Basehor, Kan., just 4.5 miles

range from the mid $200,000s to $300,000s. For more information,

north of I-70 along K-7 at Hollingsworth Road on the west side of

call 913/780-9699.

K-7. Call 913/724-5400 for details. 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY • 25

K A N S A S

C I T Y

Making the Move A transfer has made Kansas City your new home. Here’s how to ease the transition.

elocating might not crack the Top 10 all-time stressors, but it

He also highly recommends hiring a company with an established

should. Uprooting your family presents difficulties in every

record of good service. Word of mouth carries a lot of business in

facet of your life, from switching schools and communities

the moving industry, so ask your friends and associates who they’ve

to making new friends and business networks.

had good experiences with. Brewer warns against going through

“Some people are thrilled to be moving to a new place while others

brokers because they generally don’t own the trucks and equipment

just can’t stand it,” says Garold Brewer, sales manager for Berger Allied

and will hand off your move to various companies, with no one taking

Moving Company in Kansas City.

responsibility for your belongings. Bad deals can include low-ball

It’s certainly an adjustment, but the strain can be eased with a positive experience. That starts with your move.

estimates that double by the end of the deal or even theft. Claims with these companies often go nowhere.

The first thing to know is that it’s best to hire a company in the city

“Big-name moving companies have a lot invested in trucks and

to which you are moving. That company will select a qualified moving

equipment,” Brewer says. “We do our best to protect our reputation

coordinator who will be able to help you resolve any problems that

and give the customer the best service we can.”

arise, such as contesting an item on your bill or submitting a claim for broken china, and deal with them at the local level.

Ask the companies you call if they are brokers. Or better yet, look up reputable movers on the American Moving and Storage Association’s website, www.moving.org.

Finding a Mover Horror stories about shady movers abound, but the serious players in

Getting It Booked & Moved

the moving industry have tried hard to clear their names. You could

Most reputable companies offer free estimates. “They need to get a

start with the phone book and look at the ads, but that’s just the first

visual survey of what items are moving, if there’s any packing, or any

step. “Call the Better Business Bureau to make sure they’re reputable,

special needs like crating,” Brewer says. A local rep will conduct this

and check in both cities, where you’re coming from and where you’re

interview and work up a price quote.

going,” Brewer says. 26 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY

If you hire the moving company to pack your belongings, that will

©iStockphoto/Nathan Gleave

I N

usually take place the day before the move. Some luxury homes could take a week, especially if there are grand pianos or marble statues going. The average house won’t fill up an entire truck, so moving companies might double up with belongings from another family moving in the same direction. To prevent confusion in this case, every piece on the truck is inventoried and stickered, and crews will give you a copy to check off at your final destination. Notify your driver if you have something particularly valuable. Brewer explains that this means items that you can generally hold in your hands that are expensive, such as a porcelain doll that weighs only 5 pounds but costs $10,000. You might want to take items like that and family heirlooms or jewelry with you instead. Do not move household poisons like Raid, combustible items that could explode in hot weather, candles that could melt, liquids like laundry detergent that could leak on your leather sofa or even water, which could harm your computer. Damages from improper or illegal packing on your part will result in an unpaid claim. One of the best ways to stay organized is to prepare for your immediate needs. Designate a box for necessities, such as paper plates, a child’s favorite toy and toothbrushes. This definitely includes important paperwork and keys to your new house. Mark the box clearly and point it out to the movers so that it is the last box on the truck and the first one off.

Eco-Friendly Moving Tip Recycling just one ton of cardboard boxes saves 17 trees, 7,000 gallons of water and a twin-bed-sized spot in a landfill. Reduce your impact by reusing boxes then returning them from Best Price Boxes. The service sells discounted moving boxes, which can be used several times before recycling. And save again when you sell the boxes back. 913/549-4823 or www.bestpriceboxes.com

2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY • 27

K A N S A S

C I T Y

The State(s)of Business

ansas City has plenty to offer

“And our economy is very diverse,” says

Burns & McDonnell has provided

businesses that want to start,

Ashlie Hand, director of communications for

engineering, construction, environmental

relocate or expand operations. It

the Kansas City Area Development Council

and consulting services to commercial

hosts one of the Midwest’s fastest-growing

(KCADC). The following is a breakdown of

customers since 1898. And, when it comes

labor markets, with 10 percent growth in the

the metro’s major industries.

to going green, BNIM and 360 Architecture are recognized for their sustainable designs

last decade; a workforce that takes fewer sick days than workers in 33 other major

Architecture/Engineering

metropolitan areas; and five stars from

The Kansas City office of Populous

Expansion Management for business health

(formerly HOK) is part of a network of

Creative

care costs.

500 employees who provide large-venue

Kansas City is second only to Chicago in the

and efforts.

Employees enjoy a cost of living below

architecture, like sports arenas. (More than

size of its advertising community. Bernstein-

the national average, and Expansion

520 million people have attended a Populous

Rein, Barkley and Kuhn & Wittenborn are a

Management also has given gold awards

facility in the past 10 years alone.) Other

few of the diverse agencies that serve clients

to many local school districts, plus

services include master planning and urban

across the nation.

blue ribbons to others. MSNBC ranked

design, interior design, facility operations

Kansas City fourth on its top 10 list

and sustainability.

But the creativity doesn’t end there. Hallmark Corporation has been a fixture

of underrated U.S. cities because of the

Kansas City-based HNTB Architecture

in Kansas City since the early 1900s. The

downtown renovations, historical landmarks

has served clients for nearly 100 years,

company sells half of all greeting cards in

and blues/jazz history, museums, fountains

primarily in aviation, education, corporate

the nation.

and barbecue.

and government.

28 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY

Photo by Paul Bonnichsen

I N

Finance

Located in Shawnee, Bayer Animal

resources efficiently across the continent,”

has

Health develops drugs for animals, from

explains Tim Cowden, senior vice president of

operated for more than 50 years from its

family pets to livestock and flea prevention

business development for KCADC.

Kansas City headquarters. The company

to joint disease therapy for horses. The

Kansas City’s rail system carries 300 daily

offers information about mutual funds,

company also is part of the Animal Health

freight arrivals and departures. One of the

retirement and college savings for individual

Corridor, which accounts for nearly 32

nation’s largest railroad companies, BNSF

investors, asset management for commercial

percent of total sales in a $19 billion

started in Kansas City more than 160 years

and nonprofit entities, and retirement plans

global market. Companies and universities

ago and is now a subsidiary of Berkshire

for small businesses.

concentrated in the region lead the nation in

Hathaway. It has merged nearly 400 different

all animal-related aspects.

railroad lines; absorbed 34,000 miles of track;

American

Century

Investments

Since its inception, Kansas City’s own

and grown to include 38,000 employees,

H&R Block has provided income tax preparation services to more than 24 million

Transportation/Distribution

clients across the nation.

The Kansas City International Airport

“KC offers a unique combination of

(MCI) ranks the highest in medium-sized

affordability and accessibility not typically

Biotech/Animal Health

airports in all categories by J.D. Power and

found in a major American city,” Cowden

With its world headquarters in Kansas

Associates in 2010.

says. “While there are many benefits of a

6,600 locomotives and 220,000 freight cars.

City, Mo., Cerner Corporation provides

“No U.S. city is more than a three-hour

Kansas City location, in particular, our

information technology that supports the

commercial flight away, so KC is a great

region’s central location offers business —

health care industry.

choice for companies that need to move human

regardless of the product or service it provides — a competitive advantage.”

Top 25 Kansas City Corporations (2010) Company

Address

Phone

Website

HCA, Midwest Division

Employees

8,127

2304 E. Meyer Blvd., Kansas City, MO 64132

816/751-3000

www.hcamidwest.com

Sprint (Hdq.)

7,300

6200 Sprint Parkway, Overland Park, KS 66251

913/624-3000

www.sprint.com

Saint Luke's Health System

6,627

10920 Elm Ave., Kansas City, MO 64134

816/932-3377

www.saintlukeshealthsystem.org

Hallmark Cards Inc. (Hdq.)

6,282

2501 McGee St., Kansas City, MO 64108

816/274-5111

www.hallmark.com

Cerner Corporation (Hdq.)

4,812

2800 Rock Creek Pkwy, N. Kansas City, MO 64117

816/221-1024

www.cerner.com

Children's Mercy Hospitals & Clinics

4,812

2401 Gillham Road, Kansas City, MO 64108

816/234-3000

www.childrensmercy.org

University of Kansas

4,693

230 Strong Hall, Lawrence, KS 66045

785/864-2700

www.ku.edu

United Parcel Service of America, Inc.

4,646

14650 Santa Fe Trail Drive, Lenexa, KS 66215

913/541-3740

www.ups.com

DST Systems Inc. (Hdq.)

4,425

333 W. 11th St., Kansas City, MO 64105

816/435-1000

www.dstsystems.com

Truman Medical Centers

4,021

2301 Holmes Road, Kansas City, MO 64108

816/404-1000

www.trumed.org

AT&T Corp.

3,710

1100 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106

816/275-9911

www.att.com

Ford Motor Company

3,600

8121 NE 69 Hwy., Claycomo, MO 64119

816/459-1249

www.ford.com

Black & Veatch (Hdq.)

3,200

11401 Lamar Ave., Overland Park, KS 66211

913/458-2000

www.bv.com

KCP&L (Hdq.)

3,200

1201 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106

816/556-2000

www.kcpl.com

Internal Revenue Service

3,200

5800 E. Bannister Road, Kansas City, MO 64131

816/966-2840

www.irs.gov

KCP&L

3,200

10700 E. 350 Highway, Raytown, MO 64138

816/556-2200

www.kcpl.com

Alliant Techsystems Inc.

2,600

R.R. 7 & Highway 78, Independence, MO 64056

816/796-5220

www.atk.com

Garmin International (Hdq.)

2,599

1200 E. 151st St., Olathe, KS 66062

913.397-8200

www.garmin.com

Honeywell Fed. Mfg. & Technologies

2,500

2000 E. 95th St., Kansas City, MO 64131

816/997-2000

www.kcp.com

General Motors Corp.

2,479

3201 Fairfax Tfy., Kansas City, KS 66115

913/573-7575

www.gm.com

Federal Express Corp.

2,412

8215 W. 108th Terrace, Overland Park, KS 66210

913/661-5000

www.fedex.com

Citi Cards

2,200

7920 NW 110th St., Kansas City, MO 64153

816/505-6536

www.citigroup.com

Commerce Bank (Hdq.)

2,145

1000 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106

816/234-2000

www.commercebank.com

Burns & McDonnell (Hdq.)

2,100

9400 Ward Pkwy, Kansas City, MO 64114

816/333-9400

www.burnsmcd.com

CenturyLink Inc. (Formerly Embarq Corporation)

2,100

5454 W. 110th Street, Overland Park, KS 66211

866/591-1964

www.centurylink.com

SOURCE: THINK KC 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY • 29

I N

K A N S A S

C I T Y

Follow the Leader A trailing spouse’s job is to find a job.

hen

one

family

member

requirement and probably

transfers to a new city, the

lack a developed network

trailing spouse must find a

that is vital to making a

new job, too. Luckily, Kansas City boasts

change. If you want a change,

hundreds of employers, in all sizes, from the

try working with a temporary

KC-headquartered Sprint, Hallmark and

employment service to feel

H&R Block to pharmaceutical giants Aventis

it out. Consider taking a

and Bayer.

temporary job to keep income

Start the job search online or with local

flowing and skill sets sharpened. It

©iStockphoto/Sean Locke

which have become important social and business resources for networking.

papers like the Kansas City Business Journal

could even become a starting point for a

Practice your interviewing skills

and Kansas City Star or business magazine

permanent position and help you network

as well. Know how to respond to

Ingram’s. The Kansas City Business Journal

at the same time.

Book of Lists can also help you develop a potential target list of companies. As a trailing spouse, you must make it your job to find a job. It’s important to begin

Volunteering or joining a chamber, church or other community organization also can provide access to a new network of individuals.

typical questions. Be able to relate to stories that link your experience and skills to the potential position and employer. Resources like emurse.com and interviewup.com can offer help as you edit your résumé and brush up on your

networking immediately, and a good place to start is with the company that hired your

Selling Yourself

spouse. They might have useful relationships

Sell yourself to a prospective employer by

already established with job recruiters.

specifying what you can offer. Doing online

Calculating Salary

Employment agencies can be helpful, too,

research about a company provides invaluable

Compare the cost of living in the KC area

but a recruiter is only a tool to aid in the

information about its needs.

with the cost of living in the area you are

interview skills.

search. Be leery of those services that charge

A well-crafted résumé reflects your

moving from. This, coupled with the

people to find a job. Contacting more than

previous job responsibilities and the primary

new salary of your transferred spouse, can

one recruiter is smart because each one has

skills you have and it should not have a

significantly impact what salary a trailing

access to a different job pool.

one-size-fits-all format. Tailor your résumé

spouse should seek. Salary.com is a good

to each individual position you consider.

resource for such information.

One surprising networking opportunity might be with a company that turns you down

Cottengim suggests developing a 30-

for a position. Tell them you’re from out of

second commercial, often used in networking

Helpful job-hunting websites

town and would love suggestions. It’s a

meetings or interviews, to help potential

www.careerbuilder.com

matter of asking the right question, but people

employers understand your background and

usually have a natural inclination to help.

the type of position you are pursuing. The

www.monster.com

Although some use a move to make a career

commercial should describe what type of

www.npconnect.org

change, Karen Cottengim, senior consultant

professional you are, your last position/

www.kansascity.bizjournals.com

with Right Management Consultants, says it

what you did on the job, your reason

actually may not be the best time because

for leaving and future focus. You should also

www.kc.careerlink.com

you will likely have to relax your salary

www.kansascityjobforce.com

30 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY

www.headhuntersdirectory.com www.kcjobs.com

www.kansascity.computerwork.com www.kansas-city-jobs.dice.com

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I N

K A N S A S

C I T Y

Stretching Your Dollar Kansas City has a first-rate economy when it comes to low-cost living.

he Midwest has long been touted as having an abundance of affordable,

livable communities. Kansas City, the nucleus of the Heartland, is no exception. With good schools, plentiful parks, low housing costs and an

active business climate, the metropolitan area is the ideal relocation spot for those who want to have it all without breaking the bank.

Saving Money The Kansas City metropolitan area stretches into both Missouri and Kansas, and according to recent statistics from the Missouri Economic Research and Information Center, the two states were the sixth and fifth least expensive respectively in the United States. Missouri received a rating of 90.5 and Kansas 90.4 on ACCRA’s Cost of Living Index; similar states included Texas with 90.5, Colorado with 104.4 and Kentucky with 90.8. One of the reasons the area is so affordable is the cost of housing. For the first quarter of 2010, the median price for a single-family home in Kansas City was $130,700 __ comparable markets came in at $127,700 in Louisville, Ky.; $150,100 in Houston; $110,100 in Atlanta; and $224,800 in Denver, Colo., according to statistics from the National Association of Realtors. Cindy Guttery, president of the Coldwell Banker ©iS toc kph oto /He nrik Jon sso n

Relocation Center in Kansas City, has spent years wooing companies and helping people move to the area. She says housing is affordable because Kansas City’s building community is comprised mainly of local builders. Instead of the overhead of national companies, which corner the market in many communities, local builders have much lower margins and are able to keep prices reasonable. When relocating to the area, the No. 1 topic she is asked about is the quality of area schools. She says it is a pleasant surprise for many relocators to find out they can save money by putting their kids into public rather than private schools. Many of the suburbs are awash with Blue Ribbon school districts. “Private schools are great, and many want their kids there,”

34 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY

she says, “but as far as saving money on education, I tell them you’ll never find a place better than the Kansas City area for public schools.” Another cost-saving feature of Kansas City is its expansive infrastructure. The area is easy to travel, and you can get from almost any part of town to the opposite end in about 45 minutes. There are numerous main arteries to travel and, as Guttery says, “We measure rush hour in minutes, not hours,” which saves both time and money for the local workforce. Air travel is also an inexpensive perk to living in Kansas City. Travel costs less because the distance to many places is shorter than if one were on a coast. Guttery also says that because Kansas City International Airport lacks a major airline hub to control pricing, flights are cheaper than in other cities like Chicago or Houston. For those staying close for entertainment, it is difficult to beat the deals found in Kansas City. The area offers a plethora of diversions that are free to the public. Some include catching a free movie on a summer evening at Crown Center, visiting one of the many local family- and dog-friendly parks or the Deanna Rose Petting Zoo, or touring one of the local companies like Harley Davidson or Boulevard Brewing Company, the area’s largest specialty brewery. “All of the different free entertainment offered is so accessible,” Guttery says. “There are a lot of free opportunities to enjoy culture and fun activities with your family that you can’t find in other places.” There are also other opportunities for activities that are low-cost like those through local parks and recreation programs, inexpensive concerts and events, and reasonably priced tickets to Royals and Chiefs games.

Making Money Wages earned in Kansas City are comparable, if not higher, than those in similar cities in other parts of the country. According to the CONTINUED ON PAGE 37 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY • 35

Bureau of Labor Statistics, the annual mean income for the metropolitan area is $42,340. Other cities include Louisville, $38,920; Houston, $42,880; and Denver, $47,150. The Kansas City area is home to headquarters of companies from all walks of life, from information technology innovators like Garmin to the health care giant Cerner, as well as Hallmark, YRC Worldwide, Sprint, and Black & Veatch. On top of the companies headquartered here, Guttery says there are a large number of Fortune 500 organizations with regional offices in the area like General Electric and UPS. Some of the major sectors of employment include health care, local government, and accommodation and food services. The reason companies like H&R Block and American Century Investments were able to flourish in Kansas City is because of the vast entrepreneurial network in the area. KCSourceLink is one of the major organizations providing assistance to small business owners, connecting them with

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support and help they need to grow. Maria Meyers, director of KCSourceLink, works with a network of 150 organizations that support small business development, offering everything from business planning and cash flow management to finding a retail location or office space. Other support links in the area include local chambers of commerce and economic development offices, classes on starting a business, an active angel investor network and business incubators. Entrepreneurs also can get guidance from the Institute for Entrepreneurship and Innovation at the University of Missouri-Kansas City, where people can get academic degrees in

KCRAR Realtor Salesperson of the Year

entrepreneurship, and through the Kauffman Foundation, which works in research and policy and provides education to local entrepreneurs. “We have a great history of helping people be successful in this town,” Meyers says. “Those leaders who have [started businesses] in the past reach out and help mentor others.” 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY • 37

I N

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C I T Y

Caldwell Clinton Atchison

Leavenworth

Platte Ray Clay

Wyandotte

Johnson Jackson Douglas

Johnson

Franklin

Miami

Lafayette

The

Counties of Kansas City KANSAS County

County Seat

Population

Web site

Atchison County

Atchison

16,481

www.atchisoncountyks.org

Douglas County

Lawrence

113,488

www.douglas-county.com

Franklin County

Ottawa

26,441

www.franklincoks.org

Johnson County

Olathe

534,093

www.jocogov.org

Leavenworth County

Leavenworth

74,276

www.leavenworthcounty.org

Linn County

Mound City

9,962

www.linncountyks.com

Miami County

Paola

30,900

www.miamicountyks.org

Wyandotte County

Kansas City

154,287

www.wycokck.org

Linn

Cass

Bates

While every city has its own style, each county within Kansas City boasts its own wonderful and distinct feel.

he Kansas City area continues to spread out in all directions as more people move to the area. An ever-

improving highway system links the areas together, and new residential and commercial

MISSOURI County

County Seat

Population

Web site

developments are closing the gaps between

www.batescounty.net

cities and counties. The 18-county region is

8,969

www.caldwellcountymissouri.com

home to more than two million residents. But

Harrisonville

98,429

www.casscounty.com

Clay County

Liberty

228,358

www.claycogov.com

Clinton County

Plattsburg

Jackson County

Independence (1) and Kansas City (2)

705,708

www.co.jackson.mo.us

Johnson County

Warrensburg

50,669

www.jococourthouse.com

Lafayette County

Lexington

33,134

www.lafayettecountymo.com

Platte County

Platte City

85,896

www.co.platte.mo.us

Ray County

Richmond

23,445

N/A

Bates County

Butler

17,075

Caldwell County

Kingston

Cass County

even as the roads converge into a tightly woven metropolitan area, each county in it maintains a unique personality.

38 â&#x20AC;˘ 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY

20,683

N/A

K A N S A S

C I T Y

Photo by Matt Kocourek

I N

Park Place

Growing Cities Even as downtown Kansas City is revitalized, the suburbs continue to entice homeowners and relocators with upscale and affordable housing, rolling parklands, nearby amenities and a bustling business climate. Here’s a glimpse at the major players.

Johnson County, Kan. The communities southwest of Kansas City __ Overland Park, Leawood, Lenexa and Gardner among them __ are an anchor of the metro’s expansion. Collectively they’re part of Johnson County, Kan., a vigorous engine that combines nationally renowned school districts and low tax rates with one of the nation’s most educated workforces and a high-growth, diversified business climate. The result: A region brimming with some of the country’s most affluent and livable neighborhoods. They boast a stunning array of national awards lauding Johnson County and its cities as a leading place to do business (Forbes magazine), build wealth (Money magazine), raise families (Kid-Friendly Cities Report Card) and even frolic among the trees (National Arbor Foundation). No wonder it’s such a big draw. Johnson County’s population has jumped 25 percent over the past decade, now past 500,000, and it’s created more than 126,000 CONTINUED ON PAGE 44

42 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY

ally Sweeney loves to help the “kitchen challenged” find solutions to their design dilemmas. She can also help with the space planning of mudrooms, laundries, offices, bathrooms, and more. She can consult about functional layout and lighting as well as materials and equipment. When needed, she can provide working drawings for contractors and suppliers. Sally helps her clients make good decisions in the proper sequence to bring order to the chaos of the design process. This designer truly understands the functional aspects of kitchens and other home work spaces. She combines her domestic experience as oldest of eight siblings and mother of four with a university major in architectural design and construction and nearly 30 years in the kitchen and bath business. her designs have been featured in kitchen and bath issues of publications such as House Beautiful and Better Homes & Gardens.

KITCHENS & MORE (913) 441-4466

2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY • 43

Photo courtesy of Rodrock Development

jobs. The county also boasts some of the snazziest restaurants, shopping, entertainment and recreation this side of the Mississippi. Also, housing is affordable, with buyers able to choose from a wide range of home styles.

Kansas City, Kan. There’s a new hot spot for homebuilders in the Kansas City area, and its name is western Wyandotte County. Long shunned as a region too rough and tumble for upscale communities, the budding Kansas county, home to approximately 160,000 citizens, has been attracting developers. Igniting this residential activity is the commercial growth near I-70 and I-435, including Village West, a $400-million complex of trendy shops, restaurants and

entertainment,

Cabela’s,

Kansas

Speedway, Nebraska Furniture Mart and Schlitterbahn Vacation Village waterpark. New developments include the Wizards’ soccer stadium and a casino. The area’s appeal is not only based on the attractions but also on the location and affordability. Just 25 minutes from the airport, the cost for new homes is substantially less than comparable homes in Johnson, Clay, Platte and Jackson counties.

Lee’s Summit, Mo. Across the state line, Lee’s Summit, Mo., matches Johnson County in nearly every category of growth and quality of life, from award-winning schools and low crime rates to dramatic retail expansion and high household income. Except it’s on a smaller scale. Only about 50 percent developed, Lee’s Summit also 44 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY

offers an abundance of lakes and water

Introducing a

sports as well as low congestion. The success of Lee’s Summit rests in part with city leaders and their progressive approach to maintain the town’s sense of place and character.

‘BALANCED LIFE’ in Kansas City’s Premier Master-Planned Community

Lee’s Summit also is a city where school leaders are actively involved in business planning, and the city’s historic downtown boasts a charm of more than 100 shops and a pedestrian-friendly Main Street. Yes, it’s quaint __ folded within a city of vigorous growth and character. Awar d-W Liber inning ty Sch ools

ols ing Po Relax

The Northland Locals call it “God’s Country,” a reference that has little to do with religion but a lot to do with the rolling hills, abundance of lakes and easy living among the handful of communities just north of Kansas City. Located in the southern reaches of Platte and Clay counties, the Northland boasts an infrastructure of highways that makes

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getting around the easiest of all Kansas City metro hot spots. Perhaps most importantly, the Northland has attracted retail development: Briarcliff Village, a Tuscan-themed shopping center; Zona Rosa, an old-fashioned street setting;

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and the Tuileries Plaza, an open-air shopping environment. The Northland’s secret is getting out; homeowners and retailers have discovered bliss in Kansas City’s northern suburbs.

Raymore, Mo. Some prefer to live on the Plaza and soak

Paths & Exe rcise Trails

Park Water

up the food, fun and street musicians. But others enjoy the quiet of a small town. In that case, Raymore is the place to be. Its small-town appeal, top-rated schools and easy access to highways 71 and 150, which lead to the bigger cities of Overland Park and Kansas City, give it the Realtors’ mantra: location, location, location. Creekmoor,

the

largest

residential

community, comprises nearly 1,000 acres and five distinct neighborhoods. With a golf course and private lake, the area has

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layers of appeal. 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY • 45

I N

K A N S A S

C I T Y

Sunset Hill

Waldo

Brookside

The Best Established Neighborhoods 10 Kansas City favorites full of charming older homes.

Brookside

plus proximity to the Country Club Plaza,

styles, such as Prairie School, Victorian and

Kansas City’s “Best Kept Secret” isn’t a secret to many __ it’s quite a popular choice

art museums, downtown and the University

Arts & Crafts. They were not all built by the

of Missouri-Kansas City. Neighbors gather

same builders or even in the same period.

among the locals. Many residents have

frequently for events like the Brookside Art

The neighborhood association, with about

grown up in Brookside and are now raising

Fair in spring and a St. Patrick’s Day warm

160 members, keeps residents busy with a

their families in the same area.

up parade.

full agenda. The homes are affordable and the neighbors are a pleasantly diverse mix

Multiple subdivisions, including Armour Hills, Astor Place, Morningside, Oak Meyer

Historic Westheight

Garden, Rockhill Gardens, Rockhill Ridge

On the National Historic Register since the

and Tower Homes, comprise the neighbor-

1970s, Historic Westheight is deeply rooted

Hyde Park

hood, a J.C. Nichols development of the late

in Wyandotte County’s Kansas City, Kan.

The century-old Hyde Park has become a

1920s. Brookside has a home to fit most

The

community

hot spot for homebuyers in midtown Kansas

lifestyles and comfort levels with distinctly

contains a goldmine of beautiful homes and

City, Mo., with the Country Club Plaza,

different housing options.

historic treasures.

Westport, Crown Center, River Market and

small

but

mighty

of people.

Residents enjoy shopping, restaurants,

Developed in the early 20th century, the

grocery stores and more at their fingertips,

neighborhood boasts a variety of architectural

downtown only a short drive away. Weaving in and out of the area’s oneCONTINUED ON PAGE 48

46 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY

way streets, you’re sure to get lost in the charm of the homes’ architecture and fine craftsmanship. Residential homes consist of single-family homes, duplexes and apartment buildings. Neighbors not only care about their properties, they work devotedly as a team to make the area a great place to live. From a beautification committee to crime watch to social events, neighborhood volunteers through the Hyde Park Neighborhood Association work together to make this community what it is today.

Lake Lotawana Missouri’s

notable

limestone

Hyde Park

cliffs

encompass the quiet community of Lake Lotawana, home to 1,872 residents in

Lake Quivira

appeals to young families, retirees and

eastern Jackson County. Located off I-470

Tucked away between rolling, wooded

singles alike. The majority of the area is

near Lee’s Summit and Blue Springs, the

hills is the 900-acre area known as both

considered Johnson County territory, but the

beautiful lake community is a mere

a community and a city. The gorgeous

Wyandotte County line runs though one end

30-minute commute to the city.

landscape and access to nearby major

of the lake, including 17 homes.

Lake Lotawana, itself, is one of the

cultural and commerce centers relieves the

deepest lakes with some of the clearest water

need for residents to leave their homes for a

Mission Hills

around. Residents experience a full range

getaway vacation.

Known

for

excellent

schools

and

of activities, including numerous boating

The private community of well-guarded

magnificent, well-maintained neighborhoods,

groups and a garden club, in this mixed-style

homes has its own country club, golf course

beautiful Mission Hills is one of Kansas

neighborhood.

and lake, plus a variety of organized social

City’s most desired, affluent residential areas.

The close-knit yet diverse city has its own

activities. The 200-acre spring-fed lake is

Home to approximately 3,500 residents,

professional police and fire department and

perfect for fishing, sailing, boating and

Mission Hills provides a small-town feel with

AAA-rated schools. Housing options range

swimming. Other amenities include six

all the access to the region’s entertainment,

widely from one-room cabins to million-

tennis courts and an 18-hole golf course.

shopping and dining opportunities.

dollar estates.

The relaxed, family-oriented environment

A collection of architectural styles, including Tudor, French, Colonial and Modern,

can

found

this

eclectic neighborhood. Condominiums and townhouses also are available. Estate property with golf course frontage and treed lots are just a few of the amenities.

Mission Woods Welcome to Johnson County’s tiniest town! A mere 165 residents reside in this pocket, tucked away at the busy intersection of Rainbow Boulevard and Shawnee Mission Parkway. A “Classic Country Club” look makes up

Westheight 48 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY

the architecture of the city, and its village size creates an inviting place to live.

Although Mission Woods is a city with its own mayor and city council, police protection and street maintenance are provided by nearby Westwood, which sends police officers to patrol continuously and trucks to salt the streets at the first sign of snow. Shawnee Mission Parkway, the main thoroughfare running between this area of Kansas and Missouri, allows residents access to almost anywhere in the city, including southern Johnson County and downtown.

Sunset Hill Broad, swooping streets, well-tended lawns and head-turning architecture mesh together in the city-driven nature sanctuary of Sunset Hill. Perhaps best known for its role in the Battle of Westport, the area is spotted with

Lake Quivira

historical markers and shares its backyard with Loose Park.

Union Hill

variety of window shapes and sizes. The

The park isn’t the only source of foliage in the area __ all of the yards are

City living is at its best in this well-kept

area’s newcomers, including Gillham Row

enclave comprising both older and newer

and The Founders at Union Hill, offer

well-manicured with bushes and mature

homes. Union Hill is divided into two

more contemporary features. Some older

trees, which make residents forget they’re

sections: older, single-family homes built

townhomes feature maintenance-provided

only a few steps from the hustle and bustle

around the turn of the century and newer loft

amenities like lawn care.

of the Country Club Plaza. Because of the

and condo projects.

The neighborhood association hosts

hilly terrain, each lot differs from its

Seemingly untouched by time, the older

neighbor, resulting in unique designs and

Victorian homes feature much architectural

giving the neighborhood a mix of great

detail with contrasting materials, decorative

architecture. No two homes are alike.

shingles, stained glass, carved stone, and a

occasional activities like a neighborhood cleanup and a garden tour.

Waldo Location, location, location. It’s the age-old Realtor’s slogan, and it is often used to describe

the

Waldo

area.

The

city

neighborhood boasts convenience as one of its most attractive features. Its close proximity to shopping and dining and its affordable, charming houses are a large part of Waldo’s appeal, but it is the close-knit community with a strong neighborhood association that keeps residents in the area. Unique homes with mature trees add to the neighborhood’s charm. Most of the homes are two or three stories, but the ranch style also is mixed in. Resale values make living in Waldo a great investment.

Mission Hills 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY • 49

I N

K A N S A S

C I T Y

New Home Community Guide Listings to help you find an ideal residential community for your family. NEIGHBORHOOD

LOCATION

PRICE RANGE

PHONE NUMBER

SCHOOL DISTRICT

Austin Meadows

Olathe

$150,000s+

913/764-7401

Olathe

Arbor Ridge

DeSoto

$180,000s-$220,000s

913/219-9365

DeSoto

Brighton’s Landing

Olathe

$210,000s+

913/782-0075

Olathe

Brittany Ridge

Shawnee

$200,000s

913/634-6604

DeSoto

Brookwood Farms / pg. 54

Spring Hill

$190,000s+

913/686-4738

Spring Hill

Cedar Ridge

Bonner Springs

$200,000-$300,000

913/449-4045

Bonner Springs

Cedar Ridge Park / pg. 17

Olathe

$220,000-$300,000s

913/829-5813

Spring Hill

Clearwater Creek

Olathe

$200,000s-$250,000s

913/488-2368

Olathe

Delaware Ridge

Kansas City

$120,000s-$200,000s

913/400-7225

Bonner Springs

Dorset Village at Manchester Park / pg. 17

Lenexa

$265,000-$340,000

913/390-7900

Olathe

KANSAS UNDER $300,000

The Estates of Connor Creek

Piper

$200,000-$300,000

913/593-5569

Piper

The Estates of Wolf Creek

Spring Hill

low $200,000s+

913/592-3633

Spring Hill

Fallbrook

Olathe

$200,000s

913/383-1800

Olathe

Gleason Glen

Lenexa

$230,000+

913/871-4148

Desoto

Holly Ridge

Overland Park

$230,000s

913/205-9444

Blue Valley

Maple Brook Park / pg. 17

Olathe

$210,000s+

913/254-0058

Olathe

The Meadows of Forest Hill

Olathe

$215,000-upper $200,000s

913/592-2226

Spring Hill

The Meadows of Forest View / pg. 17

Olathe

$290,000s+

913/254-1002

Olathe

Mission Cliffs

Kansas City

$220,000-$325,000

913/484-5946

Kansas City

Nottingham Creek

Olathe

$200,000s-$400,000s

913/592-2828

Spring Hill

Oak Run Meadows

Olathe

$155,000+

913/856-8010

Olathe

Piper, The Highlands

Piper

$130,000-$190,000+

913/219-9365

Piper

Raven Crest

Olathe

$210,000-$300,000

913/634-2724

Olathe

Ravenwood Place

Olathe

$210,000-$290,000

913/906-5417

Olathe

Saddlebrook of Cedar Ridge Park

Olathe

$260,000+

913/829-5813

Spring Hill

Sweetwater Creek

Spring Hill

$280,000s+

913/592-4555

Spring Hill

Whispering Ridge

Piper

$150,000-$450,000

816/228-1188

Piper

Willow Springs

Gardner

$150,000s+

816/214-2191

Gardner

Windsor Hills

Overland Park

$235,000-$500,000+

913/906-5417

Blue Valley

Woodland Manor

Olathe

$260,000s-$400,000

913/522-7356

Olathe

Ashford Villas

Olathe

$300,000s-$400,000s

913/647-5700

Blue Valley

Avignon Village

Olathe

$310,000s-$360,000s

913/254-0279

Olathe

Bristol Ridge

Lenexa

$400,000s-$800,000s

913/647-5775

DeSoto

Canyon Creek

Lenexa

$370,000-$900,000

913/441-8998

Olathe

Cedar Creek / pgs. 2-3

Olathe

$350,000-$2 million+

913/829-6500

Olathe/DeSoto

Coffee Creek Crossing

Overland Park

$400,000-$700,000

913/897-9666

Blue Valley

KANSAS OVER $300,000

LISTINGS CONTINUED ON PAGE 52 50 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY

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2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY • 51

NEIGHBORHOOD

LOCATION

PRICE RANGE

PHONE NUMBER

SCHOOL DISTRICT

College Meadows

Olathe

$300,000+

913/208-4386

Olathe

Cross Pointe

Shawnee

$300,000s-$699,950

913/962-0666

Shawnee Mission

Daybreak Ridge

Overland Park

$790,000+

913/661-8500

Blue Valley

Deerbrook Estates

Overland Park

$700,000-$1 million

913/897-1000

Blue Valley

Deer Valley / pg. 21

Overland Park

mid $300,000s-$500,000s

913/685-4010

Blue Valley

Eagle View of Grey Oaks

Shawnee

$400,000+

913/522-6959

Shawnee Mission

Enclave at Woodland Lakes

Lenexa

$550,000+

816/210-8787

Shawnee Mission

The Estates at Forest View / pg. 17

Olathe

$400,000s-$650,000

913/254-1000

Olathe

Fairfield at Heritage Park

Olathe

$330,000-$400,000s

913/768-4800

Spring Hill

Falcon Lakes / pg. 47

Basehor

$300,000-$400,000+

913/724-5400

Basehor-Linwood

Falcon Ridge Estates / pg. 47

Lenexa

$700,000s-$2 million

913/780-9000

Olathe

Falcon Valley / pg. 47

Lenexa

$300,000-$700,000

913/764-7838

Olathe

Granite Falls / pg. 51

Shawnee

$300,000s-$600,000s

913/268-4407

Shawnee Mission

Grey Oaks / pg. 17

Shawnee

$250,000s-$600,000s

913/441-4111

DeSoto

Hallbrook Farms

Leawood

$600,000s-$3.5 million

913/345-8877

Blue Valley

Hallbrook Village

Leawood

$600,000s-$2.2 million

913/345-8877

Blue Valley

Highlands Creek

Leawood

$1 million+

913/814-7999

Blue Valley

Highlands of Kensington

Olathe

$400,000s-$600,000s

913/897-9662

Blue Valley

The Hills of Forest View / pg. 17

Olathe

$340,000s+

913/254-1188

Olathe

LakeShore Estates

Overland Park

$500,000s-$1 million

913/530-1096

Blue Valley

Leabrooke Highlands

Leawood

$400,000s-$600,000s

913/814-9918

Blue Valley

Linden Place

Leawood

$400,000-$700,000

913/663-2616

Blue Valley

Mills Farm, The Estates of / pg. 61

Overland Park

$800,000s-$2 million+

913/239-8799

Blue Valley

Mills Farm, The Manor of / pg. 61

Overland Park

$500,000s+

913/239-8799

Blue Valley

Mills Farm, The Meadows of / pg. 61

Overland Park

$400,000s+

913/239-8799

Blue Valley

Old Leawood, The Estates of

Leawood

$1.2 million+

913/642-3400

Shawnee Mission

Park Estates of Leabrooke

Leawood

$500,000s+

913/814-9919

Blue Valley

Patrician Village

Lenexa

$300,000s-$450,000s

913/393-4999

Olathe

Prairie Brook / pg. 21

Olathe

$300,000s+

913/764-7007

Olathe

Prairie Point / pg. 21

Olathe

$300,000s+

913/685-4010

Olathe

Polo Fields

Overland Park

$400,000s-$800,000s

913/681-1004

Blue Valley

The Preserve at Clear Creek

Shawnee

$400,000s-$700,000s

913/721-3550

DeSoto

Quail Park Villas

Olathe

$370,000-$379,000

913/387-0188

Blue Valley

Ridgestone Meadows

Shawnee

$300,000-$500,000+

913/422-5151

DeSoto

Rockwood Falls / pg. 15

Spring Hill

$365,000-$2 million

816/589-6960

Blue Valley

Stonebridge Court

Overland Park

$300,000s+

913/387-0188

Blue Valley

SummerWood Estates

Overland Park

$700,000s-$1 million+

913/945-3700

Blue Valley

Tallgrass at Wilderness Valley / pg. 21

Overland Park

$600,000+

913/831-3388

Blue Valley

The Timbers at Clear Creek

Lenexa

$300,000s-$450,000

913/647-5775

DeSoto

The Village of Tuscany Reserve

Leawood

$600,000-$1.2 million

913/269-6038

Blue Valley

WatersEdge

Overland Park

mid $500,000s+

913/681-7775

Blue Valley

Wilshire Farms

Overland Park

$300,000-$1 million+

913/663-1910

Blue Valley

Wyngate

Overland Park

$500,000s+

913/908-4942

Blue Valley

Woodland Reserve

Lenexa

$450,000-$1 million+

913/764-9100

Olathe

The Woods of Colton Lakes

Overland Park

$700,000s-$1million

913/897-1824

Blue Valley

Arbor Walk

Lee’s Summit

$140,000s-$210,000s

816/537-4200

Lee’s Summit

Benson Place Fieldstone

Kansas City

$250,000s-$275,000

816/781-3354

Liberty

MISSOURI UNDER $300,000

52 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY

NEIGHBORHOOD

LOCATION

PRICE RANGE

PHONE NUMBER

SCHOOL DISTRICT

Benson Place Woodchase

Kansas City

$250,000s+

816/781-3354

Liberty

Carlton Plaza

Kansas City

$160,000s+

816/960-1300

Kansas City

Creekmoor / pgs. 10-11

Raymore

$200,000+

816/322-6092

Raymore/Peculiar

Dalton’s Ridge

Lee’s Summit

$280,000s-$450,000s

816/795-9255

Blue Springs

Eagle Creek

Lee’s Summit

low $200,000s+

816/554-1318

Lee’s Summit

Eagle Glen

Raymore

$180,000s-$350,000

913/491-1550

Raymore/Peculiar

Emerson Park

Belton

$130,000s+

816/308-6804

Belton

Greyhawke at the Lake

Smithville

$200,000s-$500,000s

816/223-5701

Smithville

Highland Meadows

Kansas City

$200,000s-$400,000s

816/587-6101

Park Hill

Highlands of Northview

N. Kansas City

$180,000-$230,000s

816/210-5777

North Kansas City

Hunter’s Ridge

Pleasant Hill

$200,000-$410,000

816/210-5777

Pleasant Hill

Kensington Farms

Lee’s Summit

$150,000s+

816/820-2228

Raymore/Peculiar

Legacy Wood / pg. 75

Lee’s Summit

$250,000s+

816/554-8881

Lee’s Summit

New Longview

Lee’s Summit

low $200,000s-$850,000

816/765-9535

Lee’s Summit

Northgate Village

N. Kansas City

$200,000s+

816/221-7681

North Kansas City

North Pointe Village

Peculiar

$169,950-$185,000

913/345-3033

Raymore/Peculiar

Park Ridge

Lee’s Summit

$250,000s-$1 million+

816/373-5900

Blue Springs

Raintree Lake / pg. 87

Lee’s Summit

$150,000-$850,000

816/537-6656

Lee’s Summit/Ray-Pec

Rock Hill

Blue Springs

$200,000s-$350,000s

816/228-1316

Blue Springs

Rosewood Hills

Grain Valley

$180,000s-$270,000s

816/419-9634

Grain Valley

Running Horse

Platte City

$250,000-$300,000

816/858-2512

Platte County R-3

Shoal Creek, The Village / pg. 45

Kansas City

$200,000s

816/792-2400

Liberty

Sunrise Farms

Grandview

$120,000s+

816/585-8809

Grandview

Tiffany Lakes

Kansas City

$285,000s+

816/410-5500

Platte County R-3

Timbercreek

Belton

$140,000-$200,000

816/590-4817

Belton

Timber Trails

Raymore

$200,000-$230,000

816/318-4424

Raymore/Peculiar

Woodland Shores

Lee’s Summit

$100,000-$2 million+

816/246-0064

Lee's Summit

Copperleaf

Liberty

$345,000-$600,000+

816/407-7347

Liberty

Green Glades at The Masters

Kansas City

upper $400,000s

816/410-6284

Park Hill

Highlands of Weatherby

Kansas City

mid $400,000-$800,000

816/407-5250

Park Hill

Lakewood

Lee’s Summit

$400,000s-$1 million+

816/350-1500

Lee’s Summit

Manderley

Kansas City

$480,000-$1million+

816/785-2100

Liberty

Montebella

Riverside

$400,000s-$2 million+

816/741-6504

Park Hill

Oakwood Forest

Kansas City

$320,000s-$500,000s

816/505-9494

Park Hill/North Kansas CIty

Private Gardens

Kearney

$400,000s+

816/781-4700

Liberty

Riss Lake

Parkville

$500,000s-$6 million

816/741-3002

Park Hill

Riverstone

Kansas City

mid $300,000s+

816/584-2654

Park Hill

Seven Bridges

Platte County

$300,000s-$1 million+

816/210-5777

Platte County R-3

Shoal Creek, The Preserve / pg. 45

Kansas City

$600,000s

816/792-2400

Liberty

Silverbrooke

Kansas City

$300,000s-$700,000s+

816/741-6504

Park Hill

Staley Hills

Kansas City

$300,000+

816/942-5486

North Kansas City

Stonegate

Platte County

$600,000s-$2 million+

816/587-6101

Park Hill

Thousand Oaks

Kansas City

$300,000s-$900,000s

816/891-7266

Park Hill

Winterset Valley

Lee’s Summit

$320,000-$1.5 million

816/761-9755

Lee’s Summit

Woodneath Farms

Kansas City

$350,000s+

816/781-7925

Liberty

Woodland Shores

Lee’s Summit

$100,000-$2 million+

816/246-0064

Lee’s Summit

MISSOURI OVER $300,000

2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY • 53

Golf Course Communities COMMUNITY

LOCATION

PRICE RANGE

I N

K A N S A S

C I T Y

SCHOOL DISTRICT

PHONE NUMBER

Cedar Creek / pgs. 2-3

Olathe, Kan.

$550,000s-$750,000

Olathe/DeSoto

913/829-6500

Cottonwood Canyon

Lenexa, Kan.

$450,000-$850,000

Shawnee Mission

913/963-2825

Creekmoor / pg. 11

Raymore, Mo.

$250,000s+

Ray-Pec

816/331-0754

Deer Creek

Leawood, Kan.

$500,000-$825,000

Blue Valley

913/897-7547

Drumm Farms

Independence, Mo.

$200,000s+

Independence

816/228-1188

Falcon Lakes / pg. 51

Basehor, Kan.

$200,000s-$650,000

Basehor/Linwood

913/724-5400

Falcon Ridge / pg. 51

Lenexa, Kan.

$400,000s-$1 million+

Olathe

913/780-9000

Falcon Valley / pg. 51

Lenexa, Kan.

$400,000s-$600,000s

Olathe

913/780-9004

Greens of Chapel Creek

Shawnee, Kan.

$200,000s-$600,000s

Shawnee

913/647-5700

Links at LionsGate

Overland Park, Kan.

$700,000s-$800,000s

Blue Valley

913/402-1100

Loch Lloyd

Village of Loch Lloyd, Mo.

$500,000-$1 million+

Belton

816/331-9500

The National

Parkville, Mo.

$250,000-$1 million+

Park Hill

816/587-4663

Prairie Highlands

Olathe, Kan.

$250,000s-$400,000s

Olathe

913/856-8550

Reserve at Prairie Highlands

Olathe, Kan.

$300,000s+

Olathe

913/764-1440

Shoal Creek Valley / pg. 49

Liberty, Mo.

$200,000s-$1 million+

Liberty

816/781-7203

Staley Farms

Kansas City, Mo.

$350,000s-$1 million+

North KC

816/734-1800

Stone Canyon

Independence, Mo.

$250,000s+

Blue Springs

816/228-1188

Tiffany Greens / pg. 83

Kansas City, Mo.

$300,000s-$1 million+

Kansas City, Mo.

816/801-8101

54 â&#x20AC;˘ 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY

2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY • 55

I N

K A N S A S

C I T Y

Maintenance-Provided Communities If you don’t like lawn care or snow removal, one of these communities may be for you. COMMUNITY

LOCATION

PRICE RANGE

HOUSING TYPE

PHONE NUMBER

KANSAS SUBURBS $150,000-$300,000 Asbury, The Villas of

Olathe

$112,000-$189,000

townhome

913/244-8254

Arbor Creek Brownstones

Olathe

$200,000s-$300,000s

townhome

913/397-6060

Brighton’s Landing Villas

Olathe

upper $200,000s+

villa/ranch

913/782-0075

Delaware Ridge Twin Villas

Kansas City

$140,000-$190,000

villa

913/400-7225

Estates of Wolf Creek, The

Spring Hill

$199,000+

townhome/patio home

913/592-3633

Enclave at the Reserve

Lenexa

$160,000s+

townhome

913/764-9898

Falcon Lakes Villas / pg. 47

Basehor

$250,000+

villa

913/724-5400

Falcon Village / pg. 47

Lenexa

$250,000+

attached twin villas

913/780-9699

Hazelwood Villas

Kansas City

$129,950+

villa

913/915-6500

Holly Ridge

Overland Park

$250,000+

townhome

913/205-9444

Lakeview Villas at Alvamar

Lawrence

$200,000-$280,000

villa

785/841-2400

Maple Crest, The Retreat at

Overland Park

$189,000+

townhome

913/685-0303

Mission 159

Overland Park

$289,950+

townhome/patio home

913/322-0800

Prairie Brook Villas / pg. 21

Olathe

$240,000+

single family/villa

913/397-0281

The Wilderness, The Haven at

Overland Park

$180,000-$250,000

condo

913/685-0303

The Wilderness, The Retreat at

Overland Park

$184,000-$199,000

townhome

913/685-0500

Willowbrooke Villas

Olathe

$190,000+

villa

913/491-1700

Avignon

Olathe

$300,000s

patio homes

913/254-0279

Canyon Creek Villas

Lenexa

$400,000s+

villa

913/441-8998

Cedar Creek, The Villas of Shadow Glen / pg. 2-3

Olathe

$550,000-$750,000

villa

913/829-6500

Falcon Ridge Villas / pg. 47

Lenexa

mid-$300,000-$500,000+

villa

913/780-9001

Parkway 133

Leawood

$600,000+

condo

913/219-6065

Pavilions at Piper, The

Kansas City

$300,000s-$400,000s

single family

913/721-0204

Prairie Villas at Falcon Valley / pg. 47

Lenexa

$300,000-$400,000s

villa

913/764-7838

Quail Park

Olathe

low $300,000s+

villa

913/681-8215

KANSAS SUBURBS $300,000+

56 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY

COMMUNITY

LOCATION

Tuscany Reserve, The Village of

Leawood

Villas of Highlands Ranch Whitehorse, The Villas of

PRICE RANGE

HOUSING TYPE

PHONE NUMBER

$600,000s-$1 million+

villa/townhome

913/269-6038

Leawood

$600,000+

villa

913/317-8525

Leawood

$360,000+

villa

913/851-9996

MISSOURI SUBURBS UNDER $150,000 Northaven Village Condominiums

Kansas City

$93,950-$96,950

condo

816/560-0637

Steeple Oaks Townhomes

Kansas City

low $100,000s

townhome

816/734-0675

Timber Trails Townhomes

Raymore

upper $100,000s+

townhome

816/524-3855

MISSOURI SUBURBS $150,000-$300,000 Benson Cove

Kansas City

$170,000s+

patio home

816/781-8647

Cherry Hills Cottages

Excelsior Springs

$170,000-$350,000

patio home

816/630-4000

Creekmoor, Edgewater/Westbrook Villas / pg. 11

Raymore

$250,000s+

villa

816/331-0754

Eagle Creek Countryside

Lee’s Summit

$215,000-$280,000

villa

816/554-2380

Fountains at Raintree Lake, The / pg. 87

Lee's Summit

$269,000+

villa

816/537-5113

Meadowood at the Good Ranch

Raymore

$200,000s-$240,000s

single family

816/318-4100

Northgate Village

North Kansas City

low $200,000s+

row home/patio home

816/221-7681

Park Ridge Manor

Lee's Summit

$250,000-$700,000

villa

816/373-5900

Red Bridge Greens

Kansas City South

$300,000s

villa

913/652-4382

Remington Villas

Independence

$150,000+

villa

816/228-1016

Royal View Meadows, The Villas of

Kansas City

$200,000-$325,000

villa

816/228-1016

The Vintage, Estates of

Excelsior Springs

$200,000-$325,000

patio home

816/630-4200

Trails at Park Ridge, The

Lee’s Summit

low $200,000+

villa

816/373-5900

Winterset Garden Villas

Lee's Summit

$250,000-$400,000

villa

816/761-9755

Woodbrooke Villas

North Kansas City

$160,000s-$240,000s

villa

816/682-8364

Creekmoor, Westbrook Villas / pg. 11

Raymore

$300,000+

villa

816/318-0299

Lakewood Shores Villas

Lee's Summit

$400,000+

villa

816/350-1500

Lakewood, The Falls at

Lee's Summit

$599,000+

villa

816/251-1745

Loch Lloyd, The Highlands of

Belton

$400,000s-$1 million+

villa

816/331-9500

The Reserve at Riss Lake

Parkville

$500,000+

single family

816/741-3002

Saddle Ridge, Villas at

Lee's Summit

$375,000+

villa

816/220-0401

Southgate Village at Lake Winnebago

Lake Winnebago

$300,000-$1 million+

villa

816/918-6103

Staley Farms, Elan Villas

Kansas City

$300,000s+

villa

816/734-1800

MISSOURI SUBURBS $300,000+

F O R M O R E H O M E A N D C O M M U N I T Y L I S T I N G S, V I S I T:

therealestatebook.com newhomebook.com uniquehomes.com seniorlivingchoices.com livingchoices.com ●

●

2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY • 57

I N

K A N S A S

C I T Y

Lofts, Condos and Urban Living Looking for a place in the city? Take your pick. NAME

LOCATION

PRICE RANGE

TYPE

PHONE NUMBER

WEBSITE

700 Broadway

706 Broadway St.

$120,000-$135,000

loft

816/842-6544

kcloftcentral.com

909 Walnut

$160,000-$535,000

loft

816/278-3099

909walnut.com

Board of Trade Condos

127 W. 10th St.

$129,000-$250,000

condo

816/842-6544

kcloftcentral.com

Campbell Lofts

1535 Walnut

$170,000-$399,000

loft

816/842-6544

kcloftcentral.com

Coffee Lofts

321 May St.

$199,000-$299,000

loft

816/842-6544

kcloftcentral.com

DElofts

590 Delaware St.

$98,000-$299,000

loft

816/842-5800

delofts.com

First and Main Lofts

156 Main St.

$180,000-$350,000

loft

816/808-9848

firstandmainlofts.com

Fountains Lofts

8th and Broadway

$170,000-$445,000

loft

816/842-6544

kcloftcentral.com

Freighthouse Lofts

2029 Wyandotte St.

$170,000-$320,000

loft

816/842-6544

kcloftcentral.com

Liberty Lofts

360 W. Pershing Road

$89,000-$339,000

loft

816/866-1009

thelibertykc.com

Northgate Village

2901 Gentry Park

upper $100,000s+

townhome

816/221-7681

huntcommunities.com

Roanoke Plaza Condos

45th & Roanoke

$119,950-$134,950

condo

Robert Louis Stevenson

4804 Jefferson St.

$145,000+

condo

816/756-1717

rlscondos.com

Sante Fe Place Condos

2525 Main St.

$130,000-$269,000

condo

913/706-1892

santafeplacecondos.com

Soho Lofts

308 W. 8th Ave.

$89,000-$165,000

loft

816/842-6544

kcloftcentral.com

Union Carbide Condos

912 Baltimore St.

$150,000-$999,000

condo

816/595-7000

unioncarbidecondos.com

Vista Condominiums

3838 Rainbow Blvd.

$89,000+

condo

913/432-3838

vistacondoskc.com

The Westport Edge Condominiums

4201-4215 Clark Ave.

$129,00-$159,000

condo

816/333-5638

Winston Churchill Condominiums

803 W. 48th St.

$190,000+

condo

816/531-2023

winstonchurchillcondominiums.com

41 Penn

4120 Pennslyvania

$225,000+

loft

913/410-6273

41penn.com

4646 Broadway

4646 Broadway St.

$499,000-$1.9 million

loft

816/560-1273

4646broadway.com

Belleview Plaza

45th and Belleview

$399,000-$600,000

condo

913/638-5996

Crestwood Condominiums

5401 Brookside Blvd.

$299,000-$850,000

condo

816/333-7500

Freighthouse Flats

2120 Wyandotte St.

$299,000-$350,000

condo

913/206-7878

freighthouseflats.com

Kirkwood

4950 Central

$459,000-$2 million

loft/condo/TH/SF

816/531-9444

kirkwoodkc.com

One Park Place

700 W. 31st St.

mid $200,000s+

condo

816/756-2221

oneparkplacekc.com

Parkway 133

133rd and Roe

$500,000s-$1.2 million

condo

913/219-6065

parkway133.com

The Summit

1715 Summit Ave.

$299,000-$575,000

townhome

913/302-2439

kcsummitcondos.com

Villas at Plaza West

9507 Jarboe

$900,000+

condo

816/333-5638

Wallstreet Tower

1101 Walnut

$225,000-$1.5 million

condo

816/471-1010

Wornall Park Condos

300 W. 45th Terrace

$412,000-$980,000

condo

816/223-7756

UNDER $200,000

roanokeplazacondos.com

OVER $200,000

58 â&#x20AC;˘ 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY

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I N

K A N S A S

C I T Y

Your Kansas City Rental Guide Not quite ready to own a home? Kansas City offers an array of rental options. BUILDING

PHONE

PRICE RANGE

AMENITIES

909 Walnut

816/221-5500

$870-$2,600

garage parking, fitness center, climate-controlled storage, hardwood floors, rooftop garden

The Blenheim & The Sylvester

816/931-7474

$1,100-$1,890

large rooms, original details, w/d, built-in stereo, gated parking

Clubhouse Lofts

816/268-0386

$795-$3,000

pool/exercise facilities, snack/coffee shop on-site rooftop pool with sundeck, w/d, controlled access building with elevators

DOWNTOWN

Cold Storage Lofts

816/472-0126

$575-$1,300

The Dolores Lanell

816/931-7474

$1,100-$1,450

detailed aesthetics, energy-efficient, off-street parking, French doors

The Founders

816/777-5900

$675-$1,435

garage parking, w/d, central air, pet-friendly club room with TV/grill, pool and exercise facility, tanning bed

The Freighthouse Lofts at Stuart Hall

816/221-1620

$800-$2,500

The Illinois

816/931-7474

$1,450-$1,780

intercom entry, w/d, modern kitchen, historical details, hardwood floors

Library Lofts

816/842-6544

$625-$2,500

garage parking, health club, w/d hook-ups, city views, vintage architecture

Nine Ten Penn

816/471-7314

$595-$699

convenient to highways and shopping, private outdoor pool and garden

Old Townley Lofts

816/474-5638

$900-$1,250

pets welcome, garage parking, w/d, fitness facility, outdoor pool

The Payne Rowhomes

816/777-5900

$1,575-$1,995

hardwood floors, attached two-car garage, individual alarm systems

Quality Hill

816/472-4663

$655-$900+

hardwood floors, bay windows, pool, off-street parking

Quality Hill Towers

816/471-7312

$405-$540

central location, parking, exercise facility

Richards & Conover Lofts

816/474-5638

$800+

incredible views, pool, secure private parking, w/d

River Market Lofts

816/472-1344

$625-$1,150

nearby shopping, Old World charm, controlled key access

Roanoke Court

816/777-5900

$540-$685

historic charm, contemporary design, great location

Soho Lofts

816/471-4611

$750-$1,850

hot tubs/sauna, nearby shopping, fitness/club room

Union Hill Place

816/777-5900

$785-$1,240

hot water heaters, individual alarm system, w/d, balcony

Walnut 41

816/931-7474

$1,890+

2-story floor plan, w/d, private balcony, private entry, walk-in closets

West 7th St. Lofts

816/471-4611

$750-$1,100

w/d, elevator, water and trash paid, pets welcome, fitness room

Yankee Hill

816/931-2108

$879-$1,065

gated parking, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, w/d

KANSAS CITY NORTH Aloha Bay @ Harbor Town

816/455-9999

$770-$1,200

garages, alarm system, vaulted ceilings, fireplaces

Barclay Club Apartments

816/436-2202

$599-$1,040

24-hour fitness, tanning bed and sauna, pool, pets welcome

Barrewoods

816/420-9229

$695-$1,095

computer workstation in every unit, walk-in closets, pool, theater, w/d

Broadway Village

816/454-3479

$445-$645+

exercise room with sauna, playground, clubhouse, swimming pool with sundeck

Camden Passage

816/587-2900

$520-$830

patios/balconies with storage, pools/fitness facility, tennis and basketball courts, pantries

Carrington Park

816/436-6260

$679-$1,489

Playground, alarm, w/d, pool, fitness center

Clay Terrace

816/781-8787

$530-$760

AAA-rated Liberty schools, pool, clubhouse, garage parking

Continental North

816/436-4851

$495-$775

private entrances, playground, professional lawn care, trash paid

The Crossings at Barry Road

816/505-9700

$599-$1,050

pools/Jacuzzi, fitness center, on-site security, bbq area, dry-cleaning service

The Ethans

816/436-8662

$540-$785

w/d, fitness center, tennis courts, pool, weight room

Falcon Point

816/436-2620

$509-$715

w/d, fireplace, covered parking, free tanning bed, pool, fitness center

Forest Park

816/454-3535

$440-$775

laundry facilities on every floor, pool, fitness center, pets welcome

Hunterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Glen

816/741-4050

$450-$710

fishing lake, pool, fitness center, saunas, minutes from KCI

Kensington Court

816/452-2288

$555-$795

full-size w/d, pets welcome, swimming pool and fitness center, garage and storage available

Knollwood Apartments

816/454-1562

$449-$955

clubhouse, playground, pools, organized activities

The Lakes Apartments

816/741-7565

$500-$755

w/d, fitness center, pools, tennis court, water and trash paid

The Lofts & Apartments at Zona Rosa

816/505-1146

$700-$1,695

stacked w/d, snow/trash removal, on-site security

London Towers

816/452-4237

$480-$670

no KC earning tax, pet-friendly, fireplaces, pools, patrol service

The Manor Homes of Fox Crest

816/468-8111

$699-$1,260

private attached garages, fitness center, business center, pool, jogging trail LISTINGS CONTINUED ON PAGE 62

60 â&#x20AC;˘ 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY

BUILDING

PHONE

PRICE RANGE

AMENITIES

New Mark

816/734-4030

$465-$795

pool, basketball and tennis courts, storage facilities, fitness center, woodburning fireplaces

Oak Creek

816/455-0204

$375-$425

swimming pools, laundry room, playground, water/sewer included, trash pickup

Province of Briarcliff

816/505-3101

$795-$1,470

full w/d, monitored intrusion alarms, resort-style pool, jogging/bike trail

The Reserve at Barry

816/741-6733

$620-$950

storage space, tennis courts, gourmet kitchen, pets welcome

The Vintage at Zona Rosa

816/584-9500

$700-$1,170

fireplace, fitness center, pool, modern kitchen, soaking tub

Madison @ Walnut Creek

816/459-8733

$590-$719

pools/hot tubs, sport courts, tanning bed, pets welcome, car wash bay

WildOak

816/407-7100

$695-$1,010

walk-in closets, w/d, discounted cable, pools/hot tub, fitness center

KANSAS CITY SOUTH Apple Creek

816/941-4144

$540-$690

pool, nature trail, caring management team, w/d, breakfast bar

Arbors of Grandview

816/761-3411

$475-$584

clubhouse, sauna/pool, dishwasher, central air, 24-hour maintenance

Briarwood Gardens

816/761-7731

$490-$710

clubhouse, laundry rooms, picnic/play area, fitness center, all but electric paid

Bridgeport

816/763-7008

$525-$680

fireplace, w/d, covered parking, alarm system, water/sewer included

Canyon Creek

816/761-7368

$360-$850

private patios/balconies, tennis court, playground, water/trash paid

City Homes at Fall Creek

816/229-7700

$675-$975

high-speed Internet access, w/d, pool, gated community

Coach House

816/942-1522

$475-$1,150

fitness center, pool, theater/media center, clubhouse privately locked building entry, pools, playground, water/sewer included

Gatehouse

816/763-6828

$460-$715

Grand Summit

816/331-3968

$535-$795

golf privileges for residents, fitness center, whirlpool/sauna

Lakewood Terrace

816/331-1855

$695-$795

gated entry, fitness center, laundry rooms, water/trash paid, (tax credit property)

Madison Park

816/761-7617

$535-$730

pool, sundeck/spa, 33 wooded acres, gated community

Nob Hill

816/763-8526

$399-$825

intrusion alarms, pools, trash pickup, playground, water/sewer paid

Park Meadows

816/737-1225

$555-$645

private patios/balconies, pool, picnic area with BBQ grills, w/d

Prairie Walk

816/761-9310

$545-$665

swimming pool, 24-hour laundry facility, pets welcome, community playground

The Ridge at Chestnut Hill

816/361-3395

$550-$745

fireplace, garages, laundry rooms, pool, lake

Three Fountains

816/942-1918

$719-$1,290

gas fireplaces, pool and clubhouse, private front/rear entrances, water/sewer/trash paid, w/d

Timber Lakes at Red Bridge

816/763-0330

$697-$999

full w/d, pool/hot tub, gated community, pets welcome, nature trail and fishing lakes

Waldo Heights

816/333-5401

$399-$499

indoor pool, fitness center, 24-hour maintenance, w/d

Windsong

816/942-5997

$550-$1,800

exercise room, outdoor pool, laundry rooms, ample parking carports, corporate apts. available

AMLI New Longview

816/761-1407

$797-$1,206

24-hour fitness center, business center, sidewalk patio, bbq area, swimming pool, w/d

Autumn Place

816/229-2883

$449-$699

laundry rooms, pool, fitness center with free tanning, covered parking

Brookstone Village

816/257-7368

$550-$675

luxury kitchen, pass-through serving bar, playground, covered balcony, pool

Burning Tree

816/373-8514

$470-$540

private hot water heater, electric appliances, large closets, sparkling pool

Cedar Brooke

816/373-8500

$605-$715

covered parking, swimming pool, clubhouse, private entrances, patrol

Cliffside Apartments

816/373-8510

$515-$615

woodburning fireplaces, cathedral ceilings, highway access, European-style kitchen

Cornerstone

816/923-9300

$635-$795

resort-style pool/spa, private decks with outdoor storage, fitness center, w/d

Coventry Park

816/373-6239

$580-$715

fitness center with free personal trainer, pool, pets welcome

Creekside Village

816/918-6810

$700-$1,150

maintenance-free, w/d, lifestyle center, fitness center, pool/Jacuzzi

Crossroads of Leeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Summit

816/554-6240

$699-$799

clubhouse, fitness center, pool, pets welcome, all-electric kitchen

The Fairways at Lakewood

816/272-6175

$785-$1,250

fitness center, private balcony, heated saltwater pool with infinity edge, three-acre lake, w/d

Independence Ridge

816/795-1800

$525-$615

patios and decks, spacious floor plans, fireplaces, clubhouse, pool

Kingsridge

816/229-2122

$499-$700

vaulted ceilings, pool, fitness center, clubhouse, shopping nearby

The Mansion

816/478-2100

$545-$895

racquetball and lighted tennis courts, large closets, fitness center, gas included

Maple Hills

816/921-9663

$545-$990

controlled access gates, individual monitored alarms, pools, 24-hour courtesy officer

Pepperwood Apartments

816/795-8881

$734-$1,119

full w/d, lounge with TV/billiards, walking trail/basketball courts

Quail Creek/Roundtree

816/373-7666

$469-$689

vaulted ceilings, basketball and tennis courts, private entrance

Summerset Apartments

816/373-5100

$565-$760

indoor pool with sundeck, fitness center, clubhouse, covered parking

Trails at the Ridge

816/353-6060

$515-$620

large kitchen, breakfast bar, play area, beautiful landscape, pools

The Village at Adams Dairy

816/224-3334

$799-$999

health club, Blue Springs School District, direct-access garages, w/d, pool, pets welcome

Williamsburg Square

816/373-7254

$565-$690

pool/bbq area, covered parking, fully equipped kitchen, patios/balconies

Aspen Lodge

913/642-1750

$659-$980

indoor whirlpool spa, fireplace, fitness center, pool, smoke detectors

Bella Palazzo

913/681-0700

$795-$1,535

w/d, sauna, pool/hot tub, basketball courts, trail, fitness center

The Boulevard

913/722-3171

$604-$799

Olympic-size swimming pool, movie theater, sand volleyball, hardwood/ceramic tile, w/d

The Bridges at Foxridge

913/831-2900

$675-$1,225

gas paid in most units, w/d hookups, Internet cafe, pet park

KANSAS CITY EAST

JOHNSON COUNTY

Corbin Crossing

913/681-5700

$760-$1,500

w/d, intrusion alarms, fitness center, outdoor pool/spa, tennis court

Corinth Communities

913/642-1237

$759-$1,555

large kitchen, lighted tennis courts, covered parking, fireplaces in some units

The Dunes at Falcon Valley

913/712-9006

$699-$1,200

golf views, resort-style clubhouse, secluded yet close to services

The Dunes at St. Andrews

913/685-3939

$665-$1,060

w/d, wardrobe closet, views of golf course, walking trail, outdoor saltwater pool

Enclave at Town Center

913/498-8500

$661-$1,075

water/trash paid, pool, spa, fitness center, pets welcome, video rental

62 â&#x20AC;˘ 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY

BUILDING

PHONE

PRICE RANGE

The Falls

913/362-1920

$392-$892

AMENITIES

24-hour fitness center, on-site café, pool, tanning bed, pets welcome

Foxfire Apartments

913/362-9391

$575-$760

fireplaces/carports available, walk-in closets, tennis courts, pool

The Greens at Shawnee

913/422-8295

$690-$845+

golf privileges for residents, fitness center, water/trash/cable paid, pool, tanning beds, w/d

Hawthorne

913/491-6723

$470-$815

alarm system, laundry connections, clubhouse, fitness center, pools

Hunter's Pointe

913/451-1850

$655-$1,275

fireplace, exercise/weight room, covered parking, w/d, saltwater pool

Indian Meadows

913/791-1000

$570-$815

laundry rooms, pool, fitness center, walking trail, private entry, tax credit properties available

Jefferson Place

913/764-1471

$445-$650

clubhouse overlooking fishing lake, enclosed patios, laundry facilities in each building, pool

Jefferson Pointe

913/906-9100

$760-$1,745

gated community, granite countertops, 8,400-square-foot clubhouse, w/d

The Lodge of Overland Park

913/648-8000

$525-$850

24-hour fitness center, 22-mile trail, pools/courts/sauna

Oak Park Village

913/888-1500

$535-$805

clubhouse, pool, tennis and basketball courts, saltwater pools

Park Edge

913/307-9393

$750-$1,045

nature trails, fitness center, curbside trash pickup, pets welcome

Peppertree

913/384-1817

$530-$979

pool, w/d, Internet access, jogging/bike trail, grill/bbq area

Pinecrest Townhomes

913/397-7463

$935-$1,160

garage, laundry rooms, outdoor swimming pool/cabana

The Reserve at Lenexa

913/888-8700

$610-$849

w/d, woodburning fireplaces, garage, private balcony, pool, clubhouse

Ridgeview

913/829-8088

$480-$635

pool, central A/C, laundry rooms, eat-in kitchen with breakfast bar, (tax credit property)

Skyler Ridge

913/451-8976

$550-$915

pool, 24-hour fitness center, playground, alarm system

The Village at LionsGate

913/814-7368

$765-$1,650

direct-access garage, lake with nature trail, alarms, pool, fitness center, billiards, w/d

Whispering Hills

913/897-2116

$539-$699

indoor/outdoor pool, fitness center, tennis court, spa/sauna

Wind River Lodge

913/888-1505

$575-$895

Olympic-size pool, fitness center, laundry facility, racquetball/basketball courts

The Woods of Cherry Creek

913/491-3030

$740-$1,600

direct-access garage, clubhouse, w/d, breakfast bar, high-speed Internet, sunroom

For more listings, visit

Management Companies

Apartment Locator Services

AMLI Residential Cohen-Esrey Equity Corporate Housing KC Loft Central Oakwood Worldwide Plaza Apartment Center Terra Management

Accommodations by Apple Apartment & Rental Connections Apartment Finder / pg. 85 Apartment Search by CORT Home Rental Services Nexus Relocation Oz Accommodations Plaza Living Center / pg. 63 Reece & Nichols

913/905-1300 913/671-3387 800/601-6313 816/842-6544 913/492-1231 816/756-0701 816/561-9210

apartmentfinder.com

913/888-8100 816/587-5084 913/663-4545 913/894-9222 913/469-6633 913/232-5900 913/894-8400 816/931-3700 913/945-3704

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816-931-3700 800-546-4767 4621 Broadway, Kansas City, MO 64112 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY • 63

I N

K A N S A S

C I T Y

Clay County, Mo. Several school districts serve Clay County, including Liberty, North Kansas City, Excelsior Springs, Kearney, Smithville and Lawson, along with Platte County R-III and Clinton County R-III.

©iStockphoto/Marilyn Nieves

The North Kansas City Schools www.nkcsd.k12.mo.us Liberty School District www.liberty.k12.mo.us

Platte County, Mo. Park Hill R-IV School District is the largest

Back to School

district in the county, with more than 10,000

Public or private, elementary or graduate level, Kansas City excels in education.

second-largest, with more than 3,000 students

students being served in Kansas City, Mo. Platte County R-III School District is the in Platte City. North Platte R-1 School District serves Dearborn, Mo., while West

he Kansas City metro area has

Johnson County, Kan.

Platte R-II School District serves Weston,

some of the top schools in America.

Johnson County’s six school districts

Mo. www.co.platte.mo.us

Blue Valley high schools, Sumner

have some of the best public schools in

Academy of Arts & Science, and Park Hill

the Midwest.

Cass County, Mo.

are just a few examples of schools that

Blue Valley School District www.bluevalleyk12.org

The 12 campuses of the Belton School

have all been nationally recognized for their academic success. Following is a list of the major counties’ school districts.

Jackson County, Mo. There are 12 school districts in Jackson County. Many of these districts maintain

District

serve

about

4,800

students.

Shawnee Mission School District www.smsd.org

Students’ ACT scores were listed in the top

Olathe School District www.olathe.k12.ks.us

Kansas City metropolitan area in 2006.

DeSoto’s Unified School District www.usd232.org

10 among other school districts in the www.beltonschools.k12.mo.us Several other districts serve the Cass County area, including Archie R-V, Drexel

Gardner Edgerton School District www.usd231.com

R-IV, East Lynne, Harrisonville Cass R-IV,

AAA ratings, the highest possible. The Kansas City, Mo. School District www.kcmsd.net

Spring Hill School District www.usd230.k12.ks.us

Peculiar, Sherwood Cass R-VIII and

Lee’s Summit School District www.leesummit.k12.mo.us

Wyandotte County, Kan.

Higher Education

The Blue Springs School District www.bluesprings-schools.net

Kansas City, Kansas, Public Schools www.kckps.org

The metropolitan has many options for

The Independence School District www.indep.k12.mo.us

Turner Unified School District www.turnerusd202.org

them:

Bonner Springs/ Edwardsville School District www.usd204.k12.ks.us

COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES

The Piper School District www.piperschools.com

University of Missouri-Kansas City www.umkc.edu

Other Jackson County districts include Center School District, Hickman Mills, Fort Osage, Grandview, Oak Grove, Grain Valley, Lone Jack and Raytown. 64 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY

Midway R-1, Pleasant Hill R-III, RaymoreStrasburg C-3.

postsecondary education. Here are 20 of

University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kan. www.ku.edu

University of Central Missouri, Warrensburg, Mo. www.ucmo.edu Park University, Parkville, Mo. www.park.edu Avila University, Kansas City, Mo. www.avila.edu

BEST OUTDOOR LIVING SPACE

Missouri Western State University, St. Joseph, Mo. www.missouriwestern.edu Northwest Missouri State University, Maryville, Mo. www.nwmissouri.edu

• CUSTOM DECKS • SCREEN PORCHES • OUTDOOR KITCHENS • PROFESSIONAL DESIGN • DUPONT STORM ROOMS • FOUR SEASON ROOMS

Rockhurst University, Kansas City, Mo. www.rockhurst.edu William Jewell College, Liberty, Mo. www.jewell.edu Webster University, Kansas City, Mo. www.webster.edu/kc MidAmerica Nazarene University, Olathe, Kan. www.mnu.edu Baker University, Baldwin City, Kan. www.bakeru.edu Haskell Indian Nations University, Lawrence, Kan. www.haskell.edu Kansas City Art Institute, Kansas City, Mo. www.kcai.edu

COMMUNITY COLLEGES Johnson County Community College, Overland Park, Kan. www.jccc.edu Kansas City, Kansas, Community College www.kckcc.edu

Metropolitan Community College www.mcckc.edu

MEDICAL KU Medical Center, Kansas City, Kan. www.kumc.edu Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences, Kansas City, Mo. www.kcumb.edu Cleveland Chiropractic College Kansas City, Mo. www.cleveland.edu

2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY • 65

Is your child heading back to the classroom? See our list of top-quality schools to consider.

S P E C I A L

A D V E R T I S I N G Pictured: 1. Blue Valley School District 2. Gardner Edgerton USD 231 3. Lawrence Virtual School 4. Northland Catholic Schools 5. Shawnee Mission School District 6. St. Paul’s Episcopal Day School 7. The Mid-Continent Public Library

66 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY

S E C T I O N

Blue Valley School District

schools (5-8) and one high school (9-12).

commitment to excellence and passion for

“Education Beyond Expectations” is what

It is home to 12 Horizon Award-winning

working with young people have created a

the Blue Valley School District stands for.

teachers, a 2010 District III Athletic

world-class organization whose primary

Providing all Blue Valley students with

Director of the Year, a 2009 Presidential

objective is to maximize the potential of

unprecedented academic success and

Award for Math and Science teacher, the

all students — today and in the future.

unparalleled personal growth is at the

2007 and 2008 American Star of Teaching

913/856-2000 or www.usd231.com

heart of the district’s mission. Based at

Award winners for the state of Kansas, six

15020 Metcalf Ave. in Overland Park,

ING Unsung Heroes grant winners, and the

Lawrence Virtual School

the district serves 21,000 students in

2006 Kansas Milken National Educator.

Lawrence Virtual School is a tuition-free

league

online public school program serving

high schools grades 9-12, eight middle

championships in football, girls and boys

students kindergarten through eighth

schools grades 6-8, and 20 elementary

basketball, cross country, wrestling, track,

grade across Kansas, with an annual $97

schools grades K-5. In fall 2010 the

golf and volleyball during the past five

technology and instructional materials fee

district opened its fifth high school and the

years, and in 2009, participated in the

requirement. Families get access to the

Center for Advanced Professional Studies.

State Championship football game. GEHS

exceptional K12 curriculum and patented

913/239-4000 or www.bluevalleyk12.org

joins the Eastern Kansas League this year.

methodology for online learning; support

Six GESD schools have received

from passionate, Kansas-licensed teachers;

Gardner Edgerton USD 231

the Governor’s Achievement Award

a supportive school community; and a

Gardner Edgerton USD 231 serves the

representing the top 5 percent of schools

range of extracurricular activities. As the

communities of Gardner and Edgerton in

in Kansas. In 2009, GESD schools

leading curriculum provider for public

the southwest corner of Johnson County,

achieved the State Standard of Excellence

online schools serving kindergarten

Kan., with an enrollment of 4,600

in 74 out of 76 possible opportunities in

through high school, K12 has served

students. Gardner Edgerton has six

reading and math. As an honored District

elementary schools (K-4), two middle

of Character, Gardner Edgerton USD 231’s

southeastern Johnson County with five

GEHS

has

captured

CONTINUED ON PAGE 68

Whether moving across town or to another state, it’s a new adventure in a child’s eyes. This adventure includes every family member and your pets.

Happy Trails To You!

REALTOR FOR YOUR KANSAS CITY REFERRALS

Sharon K. Keller Real Estate Consultant

Keller Williams Realty Partners, Inc. Cell: 913-406-4980 kellersh@kc.rr.com

Sharon K. Keller Author & Realtor

www.sharonkellerkchomes.com 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY • 67

hundreds of thousands since its inception. Today, 96 percent of parents are satisfied with the quality of the K12 curriculum. 785/856-2000 or www.k12.com/lvs

Northland Catholic Schools The Northland Catholic Schools comprise six grade schools and one high school, all located in Kansas City North. These schools focus on the total personal development — the intellectual, spiritual, moral, physical and social development of

each

because

student. they

Students

integrate

succeed

faith

and

knowledge and acquire excellence in learning, innovative programs and training necessary for personal decision-making, with emphasis on personal responsibility and respect for others. 816/453-3450 or www.northlandschools.com

Shawnee Mission School District The Shawnee Mission School District serves nearly 28,000 students living in the northeast part of Johnson County. The district has a national reputation for educational excellence fostered by the community’s dedication to its schools that has earned it recognition among the top 4 percent of school districts in the country. Shawnee Mission offers a strong academic focus for students in grades K-12, including more than 70 advanced placement and honors courses. Two Shawnee Mission high schools were included on Newsweek’s America’s Best High Schools list. Innovative signature programs, including the Center for International Studies, International Baccalaureate, Project Lead the Way, Biotechnology, Biomedical and Pre-Medical Health Studies, and Legal Studies, offer an intensive focus in specialized areas of study. Career and technical education courses like multimedia and filmmaking, graphic design and culinary arts provide industry-specific training. 913/993-6200 or www.smsd.org

CONTINUED ON PAGE 70 68 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY

Gardner Edgerton USD 231 Trails to Success

Spring Hill School District

at 4041 Main St., is an independent school

(MCPL) consists of 30 branches serving

With more than 3,000 students in six

for students 2 1/2 years old through eighth

Clay, Jackson and Platte counties in the

schools, the Spring Hill School District

grade. Sessions for toddlers, preschoolers

Kansas City metropolitan area. It was

has a reputation for providing excellent

and pre-kindergartners are half-day or full-

established in 1965 and is now one of the

educational opportunities to its students.

day. A new 26,000-square-foot building

largest library systems in the United

In addition, students may participate in a

houses these young students. Grades first

States. The system contains more than

wide range of extracurricular activities and

through eighth are housed in a state-of-

three million books, which are made

community service projects. With support

the-art school building that includes a

available to all library users through an

from parents and the community, work

computer lab, gymnasium, foreign language

elaborate communication system and daily

continues each day by dedicated staff

lab and science lab, and an extensive

delivery service. This is true also for

members to prepare today’s students for

library with a mobile laptop cart. All

extensive collections of audio/visual

tomorrow’s opportunities.

students begin their school day with a

materials and online resources.

three

chapel lesson that instills character

In addition to the collection, MCPL

elementary schools, one middle school

development. Additionally, St. Paul’s has

offers a wide array of live programming

and two high schools, including a

three-and-a-half acres of playing fields.

for children and adults. The library’s

traditional four-year high school and an

Sports include volleyball, soccer, tennis,

Summer Reading Program for children

online school that offers educational

lacrosse and basketball. 816/931-8614 or

is one of the largest in the nation,

opportunities to students across the state

www.speds.org

encouraging reading through the critical

Currently,

the

district

has

summer

of Kansas. www.usd230.k12.ks.us

months,

and

the

system’s

EDUCATIONAL RESOURCE

Midwest Genealogy Center is the largest

St. Paul’s Episcopal Day School

The Mid-Continent Public Library

public genealogy facility in the nation.

St. Paul’s Episcopal Day School, located

The

816/836-5200 or www.mymcpl.org

Mid-Continent

Public

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2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY • 73

Numerous other child-care facilities offer I N

K A N S A S

C I T Y

a wide variety of educational choices, including KinderCare Learning Centers, Creative World School, La Petite Academy and Spectrum Station. No matter which facilities you consider, licensing should be a major concern. Licensing requirements differ somewhat on either side of the state line. When it comes to home care in Kansas, for instance, anyone providing care for children other than those ©iStockphoto/Ekaterina Monakhova

related by blood, marriage or adoption must be licensed or registered with the Kansas Department of Health & Environment. In Missouri, no license is required if the family child-care home provider cares for four children or fewer. When evaluating various care options,

Far from Child’s Play Finding the right day-care facility in Kansas City is easy with a variety of part-time and full-time solutions.

first and foremost, always ask about licensing and accreditation, request proof of claims, visit facilities in person, and remember to ask for references. Preschools do not have to be accredited by the state, but they should be accredited by

oving to a new community

school model that serves children from 6

brings

exciting

weeks to 12 years of age with full-time,

Above all, keep in mind that there is no

changes, and finding child care

part-time, and before- and after-school

perfect day-care/preschool solution for all

programs.

children; there is only the one that is

plenty

is frequently a top priority. Every child is different, and family needs vary across the board. Luckily, child care options do, too.

“Primrose’s unique curriculum called Balanced Learning blends the two leading

a nationally recognized organization.

perfect for your child’s and family’s individual needs.

If you are seeking minimal care, such as a

philosophies of teaching young children:

few hours per week, check with your local

child-initiated and teacher-directed,” says

places of worship. Mother’s Day Out

Anita Baude, owner of Primrose School of

programs are prevalent in church settings

Leawood. “The child-initiated component

Kansas City Area Child-Care Resources

and offer a caring, comfortable, playful

allows children to think for themselves and

Kansas Department of Health & Environment

environment for your child. These programs

explore their own abilities, while teachers

Child Care Licensing and Registration

also can be found in individual homes.

guide them toward a love of learning and

For daily care, your options range from

prepare them for lifelong success.”

Missouri Bureau of Child Care

in-home day-care operations to group child-

Montessori Academy in Kansas City,

care facilities to early education learning

Mo., is privately owned and well-known

centers and schools.

as a preschool/child-care facility that

If you are looking for a more educationally

offers

individual

attention

785/296-1500, www.kdheks.gov/health/index.html

each

oriented and curriculum-based setting for

child and a well-rounded educational and

your toddler, there are a host of preschools

extracurricular schedule. “The curriculum is

and learning centers in the Kansas City area.

a modified Montessori with extra classes in

The Primrose School has three different

Spanish, music and Suzuki violin,” says

Northwestern District Section for Child Care Regulation 3717 S. Whitney Ave., Independence, MO 64055 816/350-5450 www.dhss.mo.gov/childcare

Missouri Child Care Resource and Referral Network 800/200-9017, www.moccrrn.org

The Family Conservancy 444 Minnesota Ave., Suite 200, Kansas City, KS 66101

locations and is one example of a franchised 74 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY

owner Holly Beyer.

913/342-1110, www.thefamilyconservancy.org

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K A N S A S

C I T Y

Going for the Greens Kansas City is blessed with an abundance of well-manicured and challenging public and private golf courses to enjoy. n Kansas City, the golf course is about

Falcon Ridge Golf Course

Sunflower Hills Golf Course

much more than the game of golf. It’s

20200 Prairie Star Pkwy., Lenexa

122nd and Riverview Road, Bonner Springs

a casual ground for talking business;

913/393-4653 or www.falconridgegolf.com

913/573-8570 or www.wycokck.org

a place for family and friends to relax

Falcon Valley Golf Course

Sycamore Ridge Golf Course

and unwind on the weekends; and a quiet,

9801 Falcon Valley Drive, Lenexa

21731 Clubhouse Drive, Spring Hill

peaceful escape on a sunny Saturday

913/780-5976 or www.falconvalleygolf.com

913/592-5292 or www.sycamoreridgegolf.com

afternoon. That is why it’s not unusual to

Heritage Park Golf Course

Sykes Lady Overland Park Golf Course

find many Kansas Citians, of all ages and

16445 Lackman Road, Olathe

12501 Quivira, Overland Park

skill levels, out on the greens. You, too,

913/829-4653 or www.jcprd.com

913/897-3809 or www.opkansas.org

can play on one of the area’s challenging,

IronHorse Golf Club

Tomahawk Hills Golf Course

innovative courses. Here’s your guide to

15400 Mission Road, Leawood

17501 Midland Drive, Shawnee

Kansas City’s greens.

913/685-4653 or www.ironhorsegolf.com

913/631-8000 or www.jcprd.com

Oak Country Golf Course

KANSAS PUBLIC COURSES

8800 Scott Drive, DeSoto

KANSAS PRIVATE COURSES

Deer Creek Golf Club

913/583-3503 or www.oakcountrygolfcourse.com

Brookridge Golf & Country Club

133rd and Metcalf, Overland Park

Painted Hills Golf Course

8223 W. 103rd St., Overland Park

913/681-3100 or www.deercreekgc.com

7101 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City

913/648-1600 or www.brookridgecc.net

Dub’s Dread Golf Club

913/334-1111 or www.paintedhillsgolfcourse.com

The Golf Club of Kansas

12601 Hollingsworth Road, Kansas City

Prairie Highlands Golf Course

18145 W. 87th St. Pkwy., Lenexa

913/871-7616 or www.dubsdreadgolfclub.com

14695 S. Inverness St., Olathe

913/888-4894 or www.gcofkansas.com

Falcon Lakes Golf Course

913/856-7235 or www.prairiehighlands.com

Hallbrook Country Club

4605 Clubhouse Drive, Basehor

St. Andrews Golf Course

11200 Overbrook Road, Leawood

913/724-4653 or www.falconlakesgolf.com

11099 W. 135th St., Overland Park

913/345-9292 or www.hallbrookcc.org

913/897-3804 or www.opkansas.org 76 • 2011 RELOCATING TO KANSAS CITY

CONTINUED ON PAGE 78

Photo courtesy of Staley Farms

I N

voted #1 in the Northland

Home of THE Women’s GOLF Expo

Join

our email club

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC ●

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18 H OLE C HA MPIONSHIP R ATED FABULOUS P R ACTICE FACILITIES F ULL S ERVICE F OOD & B EVER AGE GPS P ROLINK C OMPUTERIZED G OLF C ARTS A NNUAL M EMBERSHIPS AVAILABLE R OBERT T RENT J ONES II D ESIGNED C OURSE

816.880.9600

w w w. t i f fa n yg r e e n s g o l f. co m

River Oaks Golf Club 14204 St. Andrews Drive, Grandview 816/966-8111 or www.greatlifegolf.com/riveroaks Rockwood Golf Club 2400 S. Maywood, Independence 816/252-2000 or www.rockwoodgolfclub.com Royal Meadows Golf Course 10501 E. 47th St., Kansas City 816/353-1323 or www.royalmeadowsgc.com Shamrock Hills Golf Club 3161 S. 291 Hwy., Lee’s Summit Photo courtesy of Tiffany Greens Golf Club

816/537-6556 or www.shamrockhills.com Shoal Creek Golf Course 8905 N. Shoal Creek Pkwy., Kansas City 816/407-7242 or www.shoalcreekgolf.com Swope Memorial Golf Course 6900 Swope Memorial Drive, Kansas City 816/513-8910 or www.swopememorialgolfcourse.com Indian Hills Country Club

MISSOURI PUBLIC COURSES

Tiffany Greens Golf Course

6847 Tomahawk Road, Mission Hills

Adams Pointe Golf Club

5900 NW Tiffany Springs Pkwy., Kansas City

913/362-6200 or www.ihcckc.com

1601 R.D. Mize Road, Blue Springs

816/880-9600 or www.tiffanygreensgolf.com

Lake Quivira Country Club

816/220-3673 or www.adamspointegolfclub.com

WinterStone Golf Course

100 Crescent Blvd., Lake Quivira

Bent Oak Golf Club

17101 E. Kentucky Road, Independence

913/631-7577 or www.lakequivira.org

1300 SE 30th St., Oak Grove

816/257-5755 or www.winterstonegolf.com

Leawood South Country Club

816/690-3028 or www.bentoakgolfclub.com

12700 Overbrook Road, Leawood

Country Creek Golf Club

MISSOURI PRIVATE COURSES

913/491-1313 or www.leawoodsouthcc.com

3 courses, Pleasant Hill

The Country Club of Blue Springs

Meadowbrook Golf & Country Club

816/540-5225 or www.countrycreekgolf.com

1600 NW Circle Drive, Blue Springs

9101 Nall Ave., Prairie Village

Drumm Farm Golf Club

816/229-1194 or

913/642-4640 or www.meadowbrookcc.org

15400 E. 34th St., Independence

www.countryclubofbluesprings.net

Metcalf Ridge Golf Club

816/350-9900 or www.drummfarmgolfclub.com

Hillcrest Country Club

6302 W. 295th St., Louisburg

Eagles’ Landing Golf Course

8200 Hillcrest Road, Kansas City

913/837-5476 or www.metcalfridge.com

4200 Bong Ave., Belton

816/523-8601 or www.hillcrestkc.com

Milburn Golf & Country Club

816/318-0004 or

Lakewood Oaks Golf Club

7501 W. 69th St., Overland Park

www.eagleslandinggolfcourse.com

651 NE St. Andrews Circle, Lee’s Summit

913/432-0490 or www.milburn.org

Fred Arbanas Golf Course at

816/373-2505 or www.logc.org

Mission Hills Country Club

Longview Lake

Loch Lloyd Country Club

5400 Mission Drive, Mission Hills

11100 View High Drive, Kansas City

16750 Country Club Drive, Village of Loch Lloyd

913/722-5400 or www.missionhillscc.com

816/761-9445 or www.jacksongov.org/golf

816/322-1022 or www.lochlloyd.com

Nicklaus Golf Club at LionsGate

Hodge Park Golf Course

The National Golf Club

14225 Dearborn Ave., Overland Park

7000 NE Barry Road, Kansas City

of Kansas City

913/402-1000 or www.clubcorp.com

816/781-4152 or www.hodgeparkgolf.com

6700 N. National Drive, Parkville

Shadow Glen Golf Club

Paradise Pointe Golf Complex

816/746-0200 or www.thenationalgolfclub.com

26000 Shadow Glen Drive, Olathe

18212 Golf Course Road, Smithville

Staley Farms Golf Club

913/764-2299 or www.shadowglen.org

816/532-4100 or www.paradisepointegolf.com

10310 N. Olive Ave., Kansas City 816/734-3839 or www.staleyfarmsgolfclub.com

78 • 2011 RELOCATING TO KANSAS CITY

I N

K A N S A S

C I T Y

Shopaholics Beware! Kansas City has enough reasonably locally owned ansas City is priced, a world-class shopping area. We do have the first shopping and nationally known retailers mall ever built, after all! You’ll to your special addiction. find feed that something you’ve been

searching for or you’ll find something you

never even knew you wanted.

MIGHTY MALLS Corbin Park. 135th and Metcalf. This

including a double-decker carousel

Country Club Plaza. 47th

new shopping center has a unique layout

and food court. 816/795-8600

and

inspired by Tuscan landscapes that features

or www.simon.com

J.C.

Nichols

Pkwy.

Designed in 1922, the Plaza is a living monument to

fire pits, courtyards and fountains. Anchored by Kansas City’s first Von Maur, Corbin

Oak Park Mall. 95th

Park houses upscale retailers such as Ralph

and Quivira. Kansas City’s

and is modeled after

Lauren, Kenneth Cole and Nicole Miller.

largest enclosed shopping center, Oak Park

Seville, Spain. Known

www.corbinpark.com

Mall features more than 185 shops; a state-

for its world-class shopping,

of-the-art children’s play area and carousel;

the Plaza is home to big-name stores and

Mediterranean architecture

Crown Center. Grand and Pershing.

and unique stores like Sephora, XXI Forever

local boutiques, as well as year-round

This “city within a city” is more than just

and Lacoste, plus favorites like Coach, Arden

events from live music to holiday lights.

shopping, with two hotels, a variety of

B, bebe, Guess and more. 913/888-4400 or

816/753-0100 or www.countryclubplaza.com

restaurants, live theaters, ice terrace and

www.thenewoakparkmall.com

Hawthorne Plaza. 119th and Roe. One

the Hallmark Visitors Center, which offers a look at the history of Hallmark Cards,

M A L LT E R N AT I V E S

of Kansas City’s most original shopping

and Kaleidoscope, a creative workshop

Briarcliff Village. 169 Hwy and Briarcliff

centers, the architecturally pleasing, open-

for children ages 5-12. 816/274-8444 or

Pkwy. The 13,000-square-foot Tuscan-themed

air plaza features upscale boutiques,

www.crowncenter.com

Briarcliff Village offers upscale shops,

unique

restaurants and office space in the Northland.

largest Talbots stores in the nation and four

Independence Center. I-70 and Hwy

It includes local, elegant restaurants like

dining establishments. 816/756-3535 or

291. Set within a lively and luminous

Piropos and Trezomare Restaurant and

www.hawthorneplazashopping.com

atmosphere, more than 130 specialty shops

Lounge with fashionable boutiques like L&L

specialty

shops,

one

the

anchored by Dillard’s, Macy’s and Sears

Home Goods and Gifts, Urban Arts + Crafts

one NINETEEN. 119th and Roe. This

provide ample shopping opportunities with

and Nell Hill’s. The GreenAcres Market gives

plaza is a hub for stylish home decor

a pleasurable ambiance spread over two

consumers an alternative grocery store.

with major retailers such as Z Gallerie

spacious levels. A third level is dedicated

816/595-5820 or www.briarcliffkc.com

and Crate & Barrel. Shopping can become

to a food-themed children’s play area, 80 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY

a day trip experience with the clothing

boutique Mitzy’s London, which sells great fashions and serves tea and treats, or Soho 119, a small and upscale department store

that

houses

its

own

beauty

salon and restaurant. 913/788-3700 or www.onenineteenshopping.com

Park Place. 117th and Nall. Park Place surrounds Barkley Square, a park that is blooming in the warm months and transformed into an outdoor ice rink in winter. Shop at several unique stores like Annabelles Fine Linens, Envy Boutique, Gobug Baby and Kids, one of the two fine art galleries, rest at the trendy hotel or enjoy the tastes of several hip eateries. Stop by in the summer for a weekly flower market. 816/561-5111 or

The Legends at Village West. I-435 and Parallel Pkwy. This 1.1 million-squarefoot lifestyle center is at the epicenter of Kansas’ No. 1 tourism district, which also

Photo by Matt Kocourek

www.destinationparkplace.com

Power and Light District

includes outdoor retailer Cabela’s and Nebraska Furniture Mart. Play, eat and

Zona Rosa. 1-29 and Barry Road.

Spa. R.S.V.P and Sprangler’s offer unique

shop at this one-of-a-kind destination.

Shopping, dining and entertainment options

gifts, home accessories and stationery.

913/788-3700 or www.legendsshopping.com

are nestled within this upscale Northland

www.prairievillageshops.com

district steeped in old-fashioned charm.

Town Center Plaza. 119th between

Shop national chains, watch a movie or

Downtown Parkville. This picturesque

Roe and Nall. This upscale lifestyle center

fill up at any of the area’s restaurants.

place is a historic riverfront community

features

816/587-8180 or www.zonarosa.com

chock-full of shopping, dining and special

than

national

and

events, with antique stores and other specialty

specialty shops, including Coldwater Creek, Pottery Barn, Standard Style Boutique,

Corinth Square. 83rd and Mission.

shops. There are also unique clothing

Macy’s, AMC Town Center 20 Theaters

Covering the necessities like a grocery store,

boutiques, a farmers market, mini golf,

and several restaurants. 913/498-1111 or

tailor and salon, Corinth also encompasses

concerts, holiday celebrations and carnivals.

www.towncenterplaza.com

antique shops and women’s clothing.

816/505-2227 or www.parkvillemo.org

There’s something for kids and pets, too, at

Tuileries Plaza. I-29 and NW 64th

The Learning Tree and Land of Paws.

Power and Light District. 14th &

Street. As a mixed-use lifestyle center,

www.corinthsquare.com

Main. Downtown Kansas City surges with energy in this vibrant new shopping, dining

Tuileries is an open-air concept with a pedestrian-friendly environment. It hosts

Prairie Village Shops. 71st and

and entertainment venue. Catch a movie

more than 30 specialty shops, services and

Mission. Find upscale, designer clothes for

or live performance, shop unique urban

unique restaurants, along with several locally

women at shops like Haught Style and

boutiques and eat just about anything you

owned boutique retailers like La-de-da

Tulip. There’s plenty of fun for children

like. At night, it turns into a hot party spot.

and GoLogo Embroidery. 816/531-5303 or

with

www.powerandlightdistrict.com

www.tuileriesplaza.com

relaxing for mom at Bijin Salon & Day

clothing store Mady & Me and

2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY • 81

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Hospital Hunting Searching for the right health care facility is easy in Kansas City. Johnson County, Kan. Children’s Mercy South

5808 W. 110th St.

913/696-8000

www.childrens-mercy.org

Children’s Mercy College Boulevard Clinic

5520 College Blvd.

913/696-8000

www.childrens-mercy.org

KU MedWest

7405 Renner Road

913/588-1227

www.kumed.com

Menorah Medical Center

5721 W. 119th St.

913/498-6000

www.menorahmedicalcenter.com

Olathe Medical Center

20333 W. 151st St.

913/791-4200

www.olathehealth.org

Overland Park Regional Medical Center

10500 Quivira Road

913/541-5000

www.oprmc.com

Shawnee Mission Medical Center

9100 W. 74th St.

913/676-2000

www.shawneemission.org

Saint Luke’s South

12300 Metcalf Ave.

913/317-7000

www.saintlukeshealthsystem.org

Children’s Mercy West

4313 State Ave.

913/233-4400

www.childrens-mercy.org

Providence Medical Center

8929 Parallel Pkwy.

913/596-4000

www.providence-health.org

St. John Hospital (Leavenworth)

3500 S. 4th St.

913/680-6000

www.providence-health.org

The University of Kansas Hospital

3901 Rainbow Blvd.

913/588-1227

www.kumed.com

Kansas City, Kan.

Kansas City, Mo. Children’s Mercy Hospital

2401 Gillham Road

816/234-3000

www.childrens-mercy.org

Children’s Mercy Teen Clinic

4605 Paseo Blvd.

816/234-3050

www.childrens-mercy.org

Kindred Hospital Kansas City

8701 Troost Ave.

816/995-2000

www.kindredhospitalkc.com

Research Medical Center

2316 E. Meyer Blvd.

816/276-4000

www.researchmedicalcenter.com

Research Medical Center Brookside Campus

6601 Rockhill Road

816/276-7000

www.researchbrookside.com

Research Psychiatric Center

2323 E. 63rd St.

816/444-8161

www.researchpsychiatriccenter.com

Saint Joseph Health Center

1000 Carondelet Drive

816/942-4400

www.carondelethealth.org

Saint Luke’s Hospital of Kansas City

4401 Wornall Road

816/932-2000

www.saintlukeshealthsystem.org

Saint Luke’s Mid America Heart Institute

4401 Wornall Road

816/932-6220

www.saintlukeshealthsystem.org

Truman Medical Center — Hospital Hill

2301 Holmes St.

816/404-1000

www.trumed.org

Kansas City, Mo. — East Centerpoint Medical Center

19600 E. 39th St.

816/698-7000

www.centerpointmedical.com

St. Mary’s Medical Center of Blue Springs

201 NW R.D. Mize Road

816/228-5900

www.carondelethealth.org

Kansas City, Mo. — South Cass Regional Medical Center

2800 E. Rock Haven

818/380-3474

www.cassmedicalcenter.com

Lee’s Summit Medical Center

2100 SE Blue Pkwy.

816/282-5000

www.leessummitmedicalcenter.com

Research Belton Hospital

17065 S. 71 Hwy.

816/348-1200

www.researchbeltonhospital.com

Saint Luke’s East — Lee’s Summit

100 NE Saint Luke’s Blvd.

816/347-5000

www.saintlukeshealthsystem.org

Truman Medical Center — Lakewood

7900 Lee’s Summit Road

816/404-7000

www.trumed.org

Kansas City, Mo. — North Children’s Mercy Northland

501 NW Barry Road

816/413-2500

www.childrens-mercy.org

Liberty Hospital

2525 Glenn Hendren Drive

816/781-7200

www.libertyhospital.org

North Kansas City Hospital

2800 Clay Edwards Drive

816/691-2000

www.nkch.org

Saint Luke’s Northland Hospital

5830 NW Barry Road

816/891-6000

www.saintlukeshealthsystem.org

Saint Luke’s Northland Hospital (Smithville)

601 S. 169 Hwy.

816/532-3700

www.saintlukeshealthsystem.org

82 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY

I N

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Integrative Health Care Kansas City practitioners seek to heal patients through holistic treatments. ust because you’ve moved to a rather conservative Midwest

a proper diet, often arranged by a nutritionist or other wellness

town doesn’t mean you’ll be met with only conventional ways

specialist; and an adequate balance between social and quiet time.

of approaching issues — even when it comes to health care.

Wellness practitioners do not condemn Western medicine, rather they

Beyond traditional medicine, Kansas City has several holistic health

suggest an integrated approach in which Western medicine and

practitioners who focus not necessarily on curing a symptom but

Eastern-based practices go hand-in-hand.

fixing the root problem through alternative means. According to Gwyneth Jones, a licensed holistic health practitioner, wellness is feeling good, creative and thoughtful in body, mind and spirit. But the actual practice of wellness-based medicine requires a bit more elaboration. Wellness-based medicine is based on the belief that the human body, when given the proper opportunity, can heal itself. This means

“They can complement one another well,” says Dr. Paul Schaal, adding that patients of both methods oftentimes can cut down on or get off prescription drugs completely. In fact, Jones has worked with several people who have a traditional doctor and come to see her too. If interested in total wellness, she recommends seeking a doctor who is willing to coordinate with a holistic practitioner.

making lifestyle choices, such as having an enjoyable form of

She says a typical session with a patient includes getting to know the

exercise; a way of de-stressing, such as yoga, meditation or massage;

patient and understanding what it is the patient needs then identifying

84 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY

his or her goals. To accomplish this, Jones has patients make a list of the pros and cons in their lives. Next, she has them select the top 15 things they would like to work on. Most patients say they’d like

MO V

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

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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

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massage

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chiropractic work, osteopathic work, nutritional guidance and procedures like

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NSA), says the procedure sends a message to the brain, which then formulates a plan to heal whatever is ailing the person. There are also therapeutic procedures like bodycentered Gestalt psychotherapy in which the therapist works through the physical, emotional and spiritual dimensions of the person whom he or she is treating. The focus is to determine how physical and emotional issues are interrelated. As the word spreads, Jones foresees more wellness clinics offering multiple types of treatments in the same place, rather than sending patients different

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practices are also becoming slightly more mainstream. Schaal explains that accessibility to these treatments is increasing because of demand. “Insurance didn’t pay for acupuncture at first, now they do,” he says. For more information, check out the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine at www.nccam.nih.gov.

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I N

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terribly different from those of their owners. ●

Maintain your pet’s routine as much as

possible. Feed, exercise and play with it at the same times as usual. ●

Consider keeping your pet at a friend’s

home while you’re packing and moving so it doesn’t become upset. ●

Minimize digestive upsets with special

foods. Pheromones might also calm stressed pets. Use dog- and cat-appeasing pheromones in an outlet for two weeks before and after your move.

Moving Your Pets Your new home wouldn’t be the same without your family pet, yet your family pet might not be the same without some special attention during the stress of moving. Here’s what you can do.

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Don’t use sedatives, especially on planes,

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Prepare your animal for flight a month

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Keep your pet under your plane seat if

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2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY • 89

I N

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Money Matters Bank on Kansas City providing the most competitive checking, savings and loan options at these select institutions. Branches

Bank

Address

Phone #

Website

Bank Midwest N.A.

1111 Main St., Kansas City, Mo.

816/471-9800

www.bankmw.com

37 50

KC & Surrounding Area

Bank of America

1200 Main St., Kansas City, Mo.

816/979-6677

www.bankofamerica.com

Bank of Blue Valley

11935 Riley St., Overland Park, Kan.

913/338-1000

www.bankbv.com

Bank of Lee’s Summit

210 S. Main St., Lee’s Summit, Mo.

816/524-1800

www.bankofleessummit.com

Blue Ridge Bank & Trust Co.

4200 Little Blue Parkway, Kansas City, Mo.

816/358-5000

www.blueridgebank.com

Brotherhood Bank & Trust

756 Minnesota Ave., Kansas City, Kan.

913/321-4242

www.brotherhoodbank.com

Capitol Federal Savings / pg. 93

9500 Nall Ave., Overland Park, Kan.

913/381-5400

www.capfed.com

Commerce Bank

922 Walnut, Kansas City, Mo.

816/234-2619

www.commercebank.com

CommunityAmerica Credit Union

9777 Ridge Drive, Lenexa, Kan.

913/905-7000

www.cacu.com

CoreFirst Bank & Trust

7430 Switzer, Shawnee, Kan.

913/248-7001

www.corefirstbank.com

Country Club Bank

414 Nichols Road, Kansas City, Mo.

816/931-4060

www.countryclubbank.com

Farmers Bank & Trust

14231 Metcalf Ave., Overland Park, Kan.

913/402-7257

www.farmersbankna.com

First Bank of Missouri

7001 N. Oak Trafficway, Gladstone, Mo.

816/436-1900

www.firstbankmo.com

First Community Bank

301 SE Main St., Lee’s Summit, Mo.

816/554-7000

www.fcbankonline.com

First Federal Bank

6900 N. Executive Drive, Kansas City, Mo.

816/241-7800

www.ffbkc.com

First National Bank

6201 College Blvd., Overland Park, Kan.

913/266-9090

www.fnbk.com

First National Bank of Olathe

444 E. Sante Fe St., Olathe, Kan.

913/782-3211

www.fnbolathe.com

3 16 8 10

Gardner National Bank

840 E. Main St., Gardner, Kan.

913/856-7199

www.gardnernational.com

Heartland Bank

4801 Town Center Drive, Leawood, Kan.

913/663-5656

www.bankwithheartland.com

Hillcrest Bank

11111 W. 95th St., Overland Park, Kan.

913/324-6400

www.hillcrestbank.com

Industrial State Bank

3201 Strong Ave., Kansas City, Kan.

913/831-2000

www.industrialbankkck.com

Intrust Bank

4000 Somerset Drive, Prairie Village, Kan.

913/385-8200

www.intrustbank.com

M&I Bank

8840 State Line Road, Leawood, Kan.

913/693-1600

www.mibank.com

Metcalf Bank

7840 Metcalf Ave., Overland Park, Kan.

913/648-4540

www.metcalfbank.com

Missouri Bank

1044 Main St., Kansas City, Mo.

816/881-8200

www.mobank.com

National Bank of Kansas City

10700 Nall Ave., Overland Park, Kan.

913/905-2100

www.bankofkc.com

Northland National Bank / pg. 94

99 NE 72nd St., Gladstone, Mo.

816/436-3500

www.northlandnationalbank.com

Peoples Bank

13180 Metcalf Ave., Overland Park, Kan.

913/681-3030

www.bankingunusual.com

Platte Valley Bank

2400 Prairie View Road, Platte City, Mo.

816/858-5400

www.plattevalleybank.com

Premier Bank

15301 W. 87th Parkway, Lenexa, Kan.

913/888-8490

www.premier-bk.com

Security Bank of Kansas City

701 Minnesota Ave., Kansas City, Kan.

913/281-3165

www.securitybankkc.com

The Mission Bank

5201 Johnson Drive, Mission, Kan.

913/831-2400

www.themissionbank.com

Town & Country Bank

4707 W. 135th St., Leawood, Kan.

913/239-0239

www.town-countrybank.com

UMB Bank

1010 Grand Blvd., Kansas City, Mo.

816/860-7000

www.umb.com

Union Bank

9300 Blue Ridge Blvd., Kansas City, Mo.

816/763-4400

www.unionbankmo.com

Valley View Bank / pg. 91

7500 W. 95th St., Overland Park, Kan.

913/381-3311

www.valleyviewbank.com

90 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY

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K A N S A S

C I T Y

I N

Home Advantage An overview of your mortgage options.

ecreasing home values and defaults on loans have made mortgage lenders more cautious. Loans are stricter, more specific and can be more difficult to get. But that

doesn’t mean you, whether a future or current homeowner, should be discouraged. It’s all a matter of knowing the new rules of the game.

92 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY

The

new

standards

for

potential

homebuyers reflect the changing face of the lending industry. Diane Bennett, regional loan manager for Capitol Federal Savings Bank in Kansas City, says borrowers should expect to do the following: ●

Save at least a 3.5-percent down

payment for FHA loans or 5 percent for conventional financing, plus two months of total payments for reserves after closing, and be able to verify it came from their own funds. ●

Establish a good, traditional credit

history (up to four lines of good credit history with at least 12-24 months of payment history). ●

Be able to document a consistent and

stable history of income and show that it is likely to continue. ●

Be able to document stable employment

history. ●

Demonstrate that you can afford a

payment. Capitol Federal Savings currently requires 31-percent housing ratio and 41percent total debt ratio maximums. ●

Have appraisals scrutinized for supported

values. Make sure the report is consistent. Do the comparables support the market value? Are they current enough? With declining values and an increased inventory

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of distressed properties, this has become an extremely important part of the underwriting

●

process. ●

Refinancing

●

Another option many current homeowners are turning to is refinancing. With rates still

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at historic lows, it’s an attractive option for borrowers who want to lower their monthly payment. But obtaining one is not as easy as you might think. “Though it sounds like the perfect thing to do for everyone, it actually only works for a small percentage of homeowners,” says Cindy Hayward, real estate agent with Reece & Nichols.

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According to Hayward, among the issues

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Loan program availability. Many of the

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Bennett says another change in refinances is the definition of “cash out,” which now means paying off anything other than the first mortgage and rolling in some standard closing costs. Some private mortgage insurance (PMI) companies will no longer insure a cash-out refinance, so unless you can come in at 80 percent loan-to-value (LTV) or less, you have limited options. Subordinating is also getting more challenging as well since many banks did not insure their second mortgages that were used for “combo loans” and subordinate banks are denying requests. Many have increased their subordination fees and/or the approval process is very long and exceeds the borrower’s rate lock period on the first mortgage application.

Jumbo Market Demand for jumbo loans continues. (For Freddie Mac, that equals loans higher than $417,000; Capitol Federal’s jumbo is higher than $500,000 and its super jumbo is more

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94 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY

comparable sales and declining values, and

720 for insured loans.

Second Homes Second-home loans are available, and many may see the current market as an opportunity to buy one, as many of these properties are located in areas considered to have a surplus of inventory (Florida, Ozarks, Arizona), making the prices attractive. However, some of these areas may also come with limited financing options. “Banks will typically be looking for larger down payments, higher credit scores and a good, solid history of reserves,” Bennett says.

Home Improvement Loans With less-than-ideal market conditions, many homeowners are investing money in their homes by remodeling or adding on. “Home improvement loans and home equity lines of credit are certainly at attractive rates,” Hayward says. “But the homeowner needs to have significant equity in the home to be able to take advantage of the rates. One thing that was difficult in past years for homeowners was that many lenders reevaluated existing home equity lines of credit (HELOCs) and reduced unused lines.” With cash-out refinances limited to 80

•

Interior/Exterior

applications for consumer home equity lines

•

Cabinet/Furniture Finish

or closed-end second mortgages to be used

•

Glazing Cabinets/Walls

•

Faux

•

Popcorn Ceilings/

percent LTV, there may be an increase in

for home improvement purposes (which could be a problem for people who have already taken out second mortgages when they bought the home with a combo loan

Remove or Paint

product). Combined LTV ratios have typically •

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Deck/Fence Stain

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Concrete Floor Finish

valuation, especially if the borrower is looking

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for maximum financing of 95 percent.

•

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been reduced from 100 percent or higher down to 95 percent maximum. Many banks are requiring full appraisals now as opposed to county valuations to ensure a current

So whether you’re buying your first home or looking to invest in what you already have, it’s all about managing expectations and knowing what to anticipate in today’s decidedly different lending market.

BRUCE RING PAINTING 913.837.5119 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY • 95

K A N S A S

C I T Y

Building Your Dream Home You don’t have to settle for less than your dreams when you’re settling down. Kansas City has a number of excellent architects, builders and remodelers who can help you create the home that’s perfect for you, even from miles away.

From the Ground Up

of their homes. Having references on hand

The first step on your homebuilding list

will help you in your selection.

is to find the right location. Choose the neighborhood, school district and proximity

All About the Money

to work that fit your lifestyle. Factor in the

Dream homes usually aren’t cheap, so you

site’s landscape, as different shapes and

must make creating a budget a priority. The

sizes will determine what style of home you

amount you have to spend will affect the

can build.

size, style and materials of your home.

Stay open and honest to the suggestions

For instance, a two-story Williamsburg-style

your team of architects and builders makes;

house is simple to build, but adding on wings

remember communication is the key to a

increases construction cost and utilities bills

successful project, and having the right

down the road, says Bruce Wendlandt of

team to talk to will make the process run

Wendlandt & Stallbaumer Architects.

smoothly. Ask to talk to a builder’s previous

Most people know what loan amount they

clients and see if you can get a walk-through

qualify for when starting the homebuilding CONTINUED ON PAGE 98

96 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY

Photo by John Ogilvie

I N

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points,” Wendlandt adds. “It’s always easier to upgrade in the process than to get emotionally attached to a project and have to downgrade due to budget.” The way to determine your budget and expectations should come from a discussion of every detail, small and large. “Develop a list before you talk with the architect or the builder and just take it one room at a

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time and make a list of everything you want to do in that room,” Dussair says. “Prioritize the list from the most important to least important. More than likely when you get through the list and you start talking cost, you may have to leave off some less important items to get the more important things you want.”

Tele-Communicating If you’re building from a distance, you can get a better feel for your builder if you meet in person, and design ideas can more easily be discussed over the table. Once you have the right ideas and the right people assembled for the job, technology, such as digital cameras and e-mail, make it easier to watch construction from afar. “Our goal is that when we start construction, we want the drawings as close to perfect as possible so it minimizes the need for questions or problems,” Wendlandt says. “There’s always going to be something that comes up, but our goal is to write that instruction manual as clearly and accurately as possible and pull as many of the unknowns out of the question.” 98 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY

Tweaking an Existing Home If you’ve found a great place but it needs a nip and a tuck before it fits your exact needs,

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remodeling may be the option for you. One way to determine both physical and budgetary feasibility of a remodel project is to have a professional check out the property before you buy, says Greg Rothers of Rothers Design/Build. “You want to make sure the house is solid, has good bones, as people say. You should compare it to the value of the other homes in the neighborhood to make sure what you are

the mark of responsible forestry.

going to do will be supported by the neighborhood,” he says. After you’ve settled on a home, develop a

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master plan for it, especially if you have multiple projects in mind. A plan will allow

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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,

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instead of separate contractors. “We are constantly checking back with the budget in terms of each selection from a construction and material standpoint,” she comments. Rothers

suggests

working

with

contractor to remodel your home in phases. You may need to complete certain rooms, such as a bathroom and kitchen, to make

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the house livable when you move in. Secondary rooms can be updated later. “Get the details worked out upfront so there aren’t emergencies during the project,” Kirsopp adds. Once everything is discussed and good to go, your dream home could be ready by the time you settle in your new city.

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 National Association of the Remodeling

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K A N S A S

C I T Y

Brand New Day Take the chance to reinvent your design style. elocating not only brings the

home. “That doesn’t happen often, but it did

professional help you make your new house

excitement of a new city but also

in this case, and the client ended up loving

feel like home.

the chance to completely redefine

the result,” she says.

look or simply tweak your style.

from city to city and neighborhood to

Finding an interior designer or decorator can

Gail Golden, a local interior designer

neighborhood. The good news is that the

be somewhat challenging, especially when

with Hobson Interiors, has firsthand

Midwest, particularly Kansas City, is filled

you’re new to the area. A great resource is the

experience with this. She remembers a West

with numerous architectural styles that will

local chapter of the American Society of

Coast client who decided to change her

please the most discerning transplants.

Interior Designers. Find a list of professionals

your home. You can start fresh with a new

Kansas City’s design sense varies

entire style from Art Deco to Country

While you’re acclimating to the scenery

French after visiting a furnished model

outside your door, let an experienced

100 • 2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY

Helping Hands

at www.asidmowestks.org. CONTINUED ON PAGE 102

Photo by James Maidhof

I N

For the latest design trends from around the world with top designers & TV celebs.

Living Large 10am Sunday

Designer and host Karen Mills For more design tips and upcoming topics, check out our blog at livinglargeshow.com Executive producer Andrew Ellenberg

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personal

experience, particularly when a homeowner

That sentiment is echoed by both Reike and

recommendation, your real estate agent,

is starting over, they want a home built to

Lober, who agree that the burnished Tuscan

architect or builder can usually give you

their specifications with creative built-ins

interior that flourished throughout the past

a referral.

and expansive, wide-open floor plans. We’re

decade is now on the wane.

you’d

After touring a model home, that’s just

seeing clients who are thinking outside

Currently, brights are right and neutrals

how Chris and Julie Radford, who relocated

the box, opting for ‘flex plans’ featuring

are still a natural. Cherie Brown, kitchen

from San Diego, found their designer.

multiuse rooms, i.e., the dining room

designer with Kitchens by Kleweno, notes,

Builder Brian Koehler referred them to

doubling as a music room and a library or

“While there’s still a nod toward traditional

Carla Rieke, an interior designer with

extra bedroom used as an office. Also in

styles, there’s interest in the unexpected. We

Madden-McFarland Interiors, who the couple

demand are front porches, outdoor rooms off

are seeing clients who want the dark, rich,

says really listened to them and helped them

the kitchen (especially beneficial if a

almost black cherry or maple woods for

define their look. “Jumping up in size from

fireplace is included), multiple colors and

floor and cabinetry combined with a pop of

3,600 square feet to approximately 6,000

a variety of materials used on exterior

color sometimes in the wall color or tile. I

square feet was pretty dramatic, so having

surfaces,” Lober says.

recently completed a kitchen with dark

Carla’s ability to assist us with decorating

wood floors and cabinets then accented with

Step Inside

was critical,” Julie says.

an intense orange glass backsplash.”

Although the revered styles of classic

Stylist Karen Ladish has never been afraid

Making It Yours

design are being embraced around the

to use color. “Color lends bounce and gives

Lori Lober, co-owner of Provence Homes

metro, interiors are evolving. “I’m seeing

you a lift,” she says. Golden exemplified this

Inc. with her husband, John, acknowledges

fresh, light and cleaner color preferred to the

in her 2009 KCH&G Boulevard of Dreams

that it’s the design of a house, how it’s

earthy jewel tones that have dominated the

homes project in which she used a range of

decorated inside and out, that helps

palette for so many years,” says Gail Morse,

spirited, coastal colors from apple green and

homeowners turn it into a home. “In our

interior designer for Don Julian Homes.

white to sunny yellow and blue-green

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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

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a community of our choice filled with countless possibilities.”

H Consider these tips as you furnish your new home ■

Analyze the big picture. What do you want a room to feel like? How will you use this room?

■

When it comes to artwork, does it speak to you? Liking it is one thing, but being intrigued and moved by it is quite another.

■

What are your budget constraints? Abide by them. Stay on track.

■

The more contemporary the house, and the fewer room divisions there are, the more you need to make the rooms cohesive and vice-versa.

■

Do you want furniture that is hip, trendy and “disposable,” or something that you will keep for a long time?

■

Even if your colors, fabrics and furniture styles are an eclectic mix, do they somehow work together?

■

Do you entertain often? Are you chasing a toddler? Which approach is best for your home: formal or informal?

■

When it’s all said and done, does your home say YOU?

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2011 RELOCATING IN KANSAS CITY • 103