Latest News

First-Time Homebuyers Drop to Record Low

By Brittany Rhoades posted 6 days ago
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From NAR New NAR data shows first-time homebuyers now make up just 21% of all buyers , the lowest share ever recorded. Their median age has risen to 40 , reflecting how high prices, elevated interest rates, and a lack of affordable inventory are pushing homeownership further out of reach. Many first-time buyers are also facing higher down payments and longer savings timelines, adding to the challenge. Meanwhile, repeat buyers—often armed with strong equity and cash—are continuing to drive much of today’s market activity. For REALTORS®, this shift means first-time buyers need more education, support, and strategy than ever, while outreach to move-up buyers ...
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A Smart Remodeler Makes Your Listing Shine

By Brittany Rhoades posted 6 days ago
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From NAR When clients decide to remodel, they turn to you for leadership—and this guide equips you to be that trusted advisor. Key takeaways: Encourage clients to secure three written estimates , compare scope and materials, and avoid choosing solely by lowest cost. Stress the importance of checking licenses, insurance, permits , and verifying references—especially when subcontractors are involved. Highlight the need for a detailed written contract that spells out timelines, payment schedules, materials, change-order processes, and cleanup. Remind clients to monitor the process , keep thorough records, take final walk-throughs, and don’t make ...
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Right Track Applications Close in Just 2 Days — Don’t Miss Your Chance!

By Brittany Rhoades posted 6 days ago
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There are only two days left to apply for the 2026 Right Track Leadership Academy , and we don’t want you to miss this opportunity. The program is designed to help emerging REALTOR® leaders strengthen their skills, build valuable industry relationships, and gain the confidence to make an impact at the local, state, and national levels. If you’ve been thinking about applying, now is the time. The deadline is quickly approaching, and spots are limited. Submit your application by November 15, 2025 , to be considered for the upcoming class. Take the next step in your leadership journey— apply today! https://kansasrealtor.com/the-right-track-leadershi ...
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Building Homes. Building Careers. Building Kansas.

By Brittany Rhoades posted 13 days ago
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Kansas needs more homes — and more skilled workers to build them. That’s why the Kansas Association of REALTORS® created the Trade School Scholarship Program , helping invest in the next generation of builders, electricians, plumbers, and HVAC professionals who keep our communities growing. Through this program, KAR is awarding $1,000 scholarships to students pursuing high-demand fields like carpentry, construction management, electrical, HVAC, and plumbing . By supporting skilled trades education, REALTORS® are helping expand housing opportunities and strengthen communities across the state. The deadline to apply is quickly approaching — November ...
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KAR Presents: Jake Thompson!

By Brittany Rhoades posted 13 days ago
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Get ready for an inspiring morning with leadership coach & Chief Encouragement Officer of Compete Every Day — Jake Thompson ! 💪 Join us in Topeka on Tuesday, December 9 from 9–10:30 AM as Jake shares his powerful C.O.M.P.E.T.E. framework for building grit, productive habits, and lasting impact. Don’t miss this chance to learn from a world-class speaker featured in Forbes and Inc. Magazine ! Sign Up Today! ...
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Develop Your Leadership Skills — Apply Before It’s Too Late

By Brittany Rhoades posted 13 days ago
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Time is running out! Take your career to the next level by developing leadership skills, building connections, and gaining insider knowledge to make an impact in your community and the real estate industry. Through the Right Track Leadership Academy , you’ll gain: Practical strategies to lead with confidence Tools to grow your business and expand your influence Skills to communicate and present effectively Insights into leadership at the local, state, and national levels Techniques to manage conflict and energize your team Confidence in handling media and public meetings This program includes five sessions (1–2 days each) and is open ...
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Free Webinar for KAR Members: Unlock the Power of Rental Beast

By Brittany Rhoades posted 14 days ago
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As a Kansas REALTORS® member, you get free access to Rental Beast — your all-in-one platform for rental listings, leads, and client growth. Join our live webinar on November 19, December 3, or December 11 to discover how top agents are using the renter-to-buyer strategy to stay busy, profitable, and top-of-mind through every market season. Learn how Rental Beast can help you: Access exclusive rental listings Capture and qualify more leads Build long-term relationships that turn renters into buyers Register now: https://go.rentalbeast.com/WBN-2025RBPro.html
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Software That Simplifies Property Management

By Brittany Rhoades posted 20 days ago
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From NAR Managing properties or advising clients who own rentals goes far beyond showing houses. Advanced property-management software is streamlining everything—from rent collection and lease signing to tenant screening, maintenance tracking and financial reporting. These platforms help landlords work leaner, protect investments, and deliver better tenant experiences. Knowing the right systems means you can guide investor-clients, bridge listing and management needs, and position yourself as a tech-savvy advisor in today’s rental-/investment-market crossover. READ MORE
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Homebuyers Interest in Energy Efficiency Is Increasing

By Brittany Rhoades posted 20 days ago
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From NAR More homebuyers today are making energy efficiency a top priority , and it’s not just about saving money on utility bills. According to recent data from the National Association of REALTORS®, buyers are viewing efficient homes as more comfortable, higher-quality, and better long-term investments . Features like Energy Star-rated appliances, high-performance windows, smart thermostats, and solar panels are increasingly influencing decisions. Buyers also see value in home energy audits and clear disclosures on energy costs. For REALTORS®, this growing demand means adapting how you market and present listings. Highlighting a home’s efficiency ...
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Kansas REALTORS® Serving at the National Level

By Brittany Rhoades posted 20 days ago
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We’re proud to recognize these outstanding Kansas REALTORS® who have been appointed to serve on National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) committees for the upcoming year. Your leadership and dedication help strengthen our profession and ensure that the voice of Kansas REALTORS® is heard at the national level.
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Robots Are Reshaping Real Estate

By Brittany Rhoades posted 27 days ago
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From NAR Robots are moving from factory floors to construction sites—and even into property tours. From automated bricklayers and drone inspectors to AI-driven maintenance bots, these innovations are changing how homes are built, marketed, and managed . For REALTORS®, this transformation means faster build times, smarter property insights, and new ways to wow clients with tech-savvy listings. Understanding how robotics fits into the real estate ecosystem isn’t just about keeping up—it’s about staying ahead. The future is being built right now—sometimes, quite literally, by robots. READ MORE
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Hometown Learning Offers REALTORS® a Full Day of Education

By Brittany Rhoades posted 27 days ago
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Join us November 6, 2025 , at the Lee Richardson Zoo in Garden City for Hometown Learning with instructor Vern Jarboe . Complete up to 12 hours of CE credit in one focused day of professional development and networking. Schedule: 9–11 AM: Kansas Required Core (4 hrs CE) 11 AM–1 PM: Fair Housing (4 hrs CE, NAR Mandate) 2–4 PM: License Law & Code of Ethics (4 hrs CE, NAR Mandate) Lunch sponsored by the Kansas High Plains Association of REALTORS®. Register by November 4, 2025. Don’t see a session near you? The Hometown Learning program brings CE opportunities directly to communities across Kansas. If your area would ...
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Build a Smart Business with Ninja Selling

By Brittany Rhoades posted 27 days ago
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Ready to take control of your business — and your life? Join Ninja Selling: Building a Smart Business with Jessika Mayer , Ninja Selling Guide, and learn how to work smarter, not harder. Discover the three keys to success : Mindset: Reignite your passion and set powerful goals. Skillset: Master the skills that drive productivity and profitability. Actions: Create a daily, weekly, and monthly plan to build lasting success. Perfect for agents who want to attract clients instead of chasing them — and find more balance along the way. 📅 October 30, 2025 | 🕘 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. 📍 Salina Country Club , 2101 E Country Club Rd, ...
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Virtual and Augmented Reality Take Real Estate to the Next Level

By Brittany Rhoades posted 10-16-2025
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From NAR Extended Reality (XR) —including virtual, augmented, and mixed reality—is transforming how REALTORS® market properties and connect with clients. By the end of 2025, over 1.4 million real estate professionals are expected to use XR tools for virtual showings, personalized tours, and real-time neighborhood insights. As AI and spatial computing evolve, these experiences will become even more lifelike and accessible. Early adopters will gain a clear edge as immersive technology becomes a new industry standard. READ MORE
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Kansas REALTORS® Appointed to the Kansas Real Estate Commission

By Brittany Rhoades posted 10-16-2025
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We’re proud to share that Natalie Moyer will continue to serve as the 4th Congressional District member and Chair of the Kansas Real Estate Commission . Join us in celebrating this Kansas REALTOR®’s continued leadership and dedicated service to our industry! We’re also excited to welcome Kathy Minden , who will serve as the 3rd Congressional District member of the Kansas Real Estate Commission . Kathy brings valuable expertise and a strong commitment to advancing the real estate profession in Kansas. Together, Natalie and Kathy exemplify the leadership and passion that drive our industry forward. Congratulations to both on their service to the Kansas ...
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Market Stats – September 2025

By Brittany Rhoades posted 10-16-2025
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The Kansas real estate market showed signs of cooling: home sales declined , while active inventory ticked upward . Meanwhile, median prices held steady or posted modest gains , and days on market nudged upward in many areas. For REALTORS®, these shifts suggest two things: buyer demand is softening , and pricing discipline matters more than ever . Use these trends to adjust expectations, counsel clients thoughtfully, and watch closely for local market divergence. READ MORE
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Join Us at the Kansas Housing Conference!

By Brittany Rhoades posted 10-16-2025
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Housing supply is set to be a major focus during the 2026 Kansas Legislative Session—and REALTORS® have a chance to lead the conversation. KAR is sponsoring the keynote “Escaping the Housing Trap” at the 2025 Kansas Housing Conference on Tuesday, October 28 at the Overland Park Convention Center. Hear from Strong Towns’ Chris Allen and join a follow-up housing supply workshop featuring state experts—including KAR President Jamie Sauder. For just $25, attendees will enjoy breakfast, both sessions, and a free copy of Escaping the Housing Trap ($28 value). Register by the end of the day on October 19 to secure your spot and be part of this important ...
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Reverse Staging Made Simple: An Affordable Strategy for Your Sellers

By Brittany Rhoades posted 09-25-2025
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From NAR Reverse staging (sometimes called “microstaging”) flips traditional staging on its head: instead of starting with large-scale furniture and layout changes, you begin with small, tactile details —hardware, lighting, textiles, scents, décor accents—then build outward. The idea is that buyers may not consciously notice a shiny doorknob or upgraded faucet, but those subtle touches accumulate—they support a sense of quality, care, and durability. If you’re considering recommending staging to sellers (especially those on tighter budgets or in homes with structural challenges), reverse staging offers a high-impact, cost-sensitive alternative . ...
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What Rising Mortgage Applications Mean for REALTORS® in 2024

By Brittany Rhoades posted 09-25-2025
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From NAR After historic lows in 2023, new data shows home-purchase mortgage applications increased slightly in 2024—from 6.54 million to 6.55 million—leading to 3.5 million loan originations. Although modest, this uptick signals renewed demand, aided by stable interest rates around 6.5–7 %. Some metro areas saw strong gains, while others still faced declining applications. For REALTORS®, the takeaway: buyer interest is stirring—but markets will be uneven. Use this data to inform your strategies locally and adjust your client guidance accordingly. READ MORE
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Secure the Home, Secure the Sale: Smart Locks REALTORS® Can Recommend in 2025

By Brittany Rhoades posted 09-25-2025
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From NAR Smart locks are no longer just a techy upgrade—they’re becoming a must-know tool for REALTORS®. With biometric access, ultra-wideband tech, and seamless integration into smart home ecosystems, today's locks add both security and appeal. This article reviews eight top smart locks of 2025—including models with facial recognition, Apple Home Key support, and advanced encryption. Whether advising sellers on listing upgrades or helping buyers pick a secure home, being well versed in smart lock options positions you as a modern, trusted advisor. READ MORE
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