Not only does Wichita have the distinction of being the "Air Capitol of the World" with five airplane manufacturers, it is also home to many other industries, as well as being an art and entertainment mecca, say Realtors.

"Wichitans enjoy wide open spaces, great industries, good schools, and a wide variety of entertainment and fun things to do in a low-key, friendly atmosphere," says Realtor Marilyn Brown.

About the market, Brown says, "The market for new starter homes has remained solid over the last two years, with steady price gains and solid sales. At the same time, prices of existing starter homes have declined fairly dramatically, which reflects the overall weakness in the lower-end of the Wichita housing market. Sales of both new and existing mid-level homes have remained fairly stable over the last several years. Prices of new mid-level homes have risen slightly over this time frame even as existing mid-level home prices have fallen. Overall, during 2003, the price gap between new and existing homes continued to increase. The median price of new deluxe homes has dropped sharply since the beginning of 2001, although prices have risen somewhat in the last year. Existing deluxe homes have fared somewhat better. While prices have declined slightly, sales of these homes have remained remarkably strong in the wake of record low interest rates."

"Wichita is located in the heart of Kansas," says Realtor Penny Johnson. "The west side of Wichita is growing leaps and bounds. It offers new housing developments that provide water rights for motorized watercraft on to the quiet established neighborhoods where homes won't stay on the market long. Since June, the trend has shown homes listing an average of 78 days before selling. Public and private schools surround west Wichita, and it is advised to check with the districts to determine boundaries. Retail shopping premiers name brand stores which mirror east Wichita."

"Wichita's economy is quite healthy," say Realtors Sheri Barnes and Teresa Anders, "The 9-11 bombings affected our main employers Boeing, Cessna, Learjet, which are aircraft makers. However Boeing and Cessna have been hiring people back which makes everyone happy."

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Published: September 23, 2004

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