Known for jazz, barbecue, and much more, Kansas City, Missouri is attracting homebuyers with its diverse economy and affordable housing, say local Realtors.

"Kansas City Missouri is a lot of cities combined in the eyes of a visitor," says Realtor Jeannie Morrison. "It includes several counties; North is Clay and Platte, South is Jackson County, but the counties of Cass and Johnson, Missouri are also thought of as part of the Kansas City Metro area. The Missouri River divides the north and south parts of Kansas City. The towns of Gladstone, Independence, Blue Springs, Lee's Summitt, Belton, Raymore, Richmond, North Kansas City and Liberty are also towns that are perceived to be part of Kansas City on the Missouri side. The Kansas border on the west has many towns that are also very popular and some people think it is also part of Kansas City.

"Kansas City is known as the 'City of Fountains,'" continues Morrison. "It has many historic areas around the Plaza and Crown Center. There are many hospitals, parkways, parks and of course, fountains! The town itself spreads its fingers in and out of other townships so it is hard to know when you are really in Kansas City or another town. It ends on the West at the State Line border of Kansas. The downtown area and the Missouri River divides the north and south area."

About the market, Morrison says, "This year brings good news for this area! Listings are coming on the market every day since the holiday months are over! There are a lot of job opportunities around the metropolitan area, so housing is in high demand!

"The homes closer to downtown tend to be smaller and lower in price than the outermost areas of town," observes Morrison. "Of course, there are some historic mansions in the mid-town area also! The schools have had a little problem with their accreditation. There are some newer schools in the city. However, the city as a whole has run out of land and most of the housing is older. The newer homes have spread to cities in the north, east and south."

She explains, "Kansas City shares the same community activities in shopping, sports, culture, parks, lakes, airports, etc. as Kansas on the West. They are separated only by a street called State Line. The airport is located on the northern edge of Kansas City. Most of downtown is business and shopping. Housing needs are still great. The prices have risen in the past few years, but because of the low interest rates and the need for housing for baby boomers and echo boomers, there is not enough housing to go around. However, Kansas City must compete with all surrounding towns for buyers. An average price for homes in the mid town area starts around $80,000 to over millions. There are some exceptions."

"Experience Kansas City," invites Realtor Willa Huber. "The city of fountains is also recognized for jazz, barbecue, The Plaza, The Kansas City Chiefs, racing, casinos and family fun entertainment."

She advises, "The Kansas City downtown area is mostly businesses and shopping. There are many job opportunities throughout the metropolitan area. The newer homes have spread north and south. Housing in Kansas City is affordable. Kansas City spreads into many different areas which makes it difficult to determine what city you are actually in. The airport is located on the northern border of the city. Kansas City is one of the largest cities in Missouri."

Click here to view current Market Conditions in your location.

Published: February 12, 2004

Use of this article without permission is a violation of federal copyright laws.