Market Recap

Very Informative and Exciting Market Recap Courtesy of MidAmerica Mortgage:

For more information please visit: www.CindyLaffey.com

"I didn't ask for this, but I'll take it.."

That was a direct quote from my precious, four year old grandson Joe. While opening presents for the Holidays this year, he opened a Scooby Doo Activity and Coloring Book, that Heather thought was an adorable gift. After opening the gift, Joe looked questioningly at Heather and said, "I didn't ask for this, but I'll take it anyway!" We all had a good laugh at his very literal interpretation of a Christmas list, and explained to him that sometimes you get things that aren't on your list, and you don't always get everything that is on your list, but how sweet is that?!

Also, on Christmas day, Charlie and I got many frantic calls worried that we wouldn't be able to make our plans, due to the heavy snowfall the night before. By the time we recieved calls from our frantic worried children, we had been driving all over town in our Jeep. True, we had passed numerous cars on the highways and side streets stuck off the road, but as I said to my kids, this old broad was driving in her Jeep and doing just fine. We would made it for dinner, and the roads were perfectly fine. Sometimes I feel like Charlie and I are younger than our children, they made such a big deal about driving in the snow!

It was great to be able to spend time with friends and family over the Holidays, but I am also glad to get back to work, and am looking forward to what the New Year will bring!

*KK

Exciting events ahead...

We have some exciting events coming up in 2010 that we have the privilege of being guests at for being selected as one of 2010 25 Under 25.

1/19/2010 - Coctail reception sponsored by UMB at the Liberty Memorial
2/9/2010 - KBT honored at dinner sponsored by Missouri Bank and Metzler Bros. Insurance
2/27/2010 - Black Tie Ball and awards ceremony

*KK

Tis the Season...

I am so excited for my day of fun filled excitement! Currently I am in the process of making artichoke dip and cheesy toastees for our staff holiday celebration. This afternoon, we are treating our staff to pedicures at Image Nail Salon. We will be closing up shop early, around 2pm and meeting up at our favorite nail salon for a relaxing holiday treat! Stop by if you are in the area, toast some champagne for the holiday, and check out our cute toes, all ages will be present from 9 (my grand-daughter Elinor) all the way up to 63!
Then this evening we have our family Christmas Eve, with dinner, gifts, and then a special treat, Santa will be stopping by to visit the grandkids one last time before Christmas! I can't wait, it should be a fabulous day full of laughter, family, friends, and holiday cheer!
I hope your holidays are just as special!

*KK

Must-See Movie of the Year: Avatar

I just went to see the most amazing movie ever... Avatar, I would absolutely give this movie 10 stars if possible! It was so amazing I highly recommend it to anyone looking to see a blockbuster this holiday season. Before you go to see it, forget that I gave it 10 stars, so you don't expect too much, then open your mind, relax and enjoy the ride! If you can't take a vacation this year, this will be the cheapest, BEST 2 1/2 hour vacation yet! This movie took me on a wonderfully different journey, nothing like I have ever experienced in the theatre! I loved, loved, loved this movie!
*KK

Looking for something to do this weekend?

Carey Limousine Service provides tours of all the lights around the city. Grab the girls, family, or friends and tour the lights of Kansas City!!

www.kctg.com/carey_light_tours.html

Article on Kathy's Avon Walk

I was recently featured in The Snow Globe, for my dedication to the HERstory program and the continued education of women living with breast cancer. As you all know, this is a cause near and dear to my heart, and I was so excited to be featured in the November December edition!

Thanks again to all who supported me on my Avon walk! I am currently getting prepared for 2010!

*KK

25 Under 25 Program

The Koehler Bortnick Team is very proud to be honored in The Class of 2010 25 Under 25 Program!
Thanks so much for all your business and referrals KC!

KC Small Business - Winners

The Koehler Bortnick Team December Newsletter

Please click here to view The KBTeam Newsletter

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

THE KOEHLER BORTNICK TEAM

Go Team!!

I was just notified yesterday that the Koehler-Bortnick Team is being honored as one of the Class of 2010 - 25 Under 25 by KC Small Business. This is a very rigorous application process that looks at all aspects of the company. There were 1041 applicants and we are honored to have even been considered! Persistence and teamwork really does pay off. THANK YOU!!

Down Market...Not for The Koehler Bortnick Team!

With the tax credit extension and expansion in place there is a huge incentive to buy and sell! The Koehler Bortnick Team sold 25 homes last month, sold 447 homes YTD, and have a YTD Volume of $139,025,620. If you have some time this holiday season to get out and view some of the amazing listings and deals out there, call one of our top buyers agents to set up some showing appointments. Visit our website at www.KBsells.com to find out more information. The deadline for the tax credit is April 30th, 2010 so begin your search NOW!

Tis the Season...

The time has come for Holiday parties, and nothing excites me more than our annual team Holiday party! I find it is a great time to relax and unwind with my fellow co-workers! I think it is also really important to be able to take the time to really enjoy and get to know those you work with. Our team and office parties provide us with a great chance to mix and mingle outside of the hustle and bustle of our work environment. I also think our team party gives us a great chance to let down our hair and see everyone's true colors! This year we have added a lot of new members to the team and I am excited to see how everyone gets to know each other and how they interact with the whole team outside our office! We had a wild time last year, and I am hoping for a wild good time this year as well. Check out this interesting article I found while browsing through the internet yesterday on the 20 tips for your workplace non-party... http://finance.yahoo.com/news/20-Tips-for-Your-Workplace-usnews-4009457919.html?x=0&.v=1. I would like to hear how many people break these rules. I am sure I will break a few as well.

*KK

Wicked....Two Thumbs Up!!

Yesterday I went to see Wicked with my daughters and granddaughters. It was amazing!! My little 4 year old granddaughter did wonderful, not even a peep. There were lots of stairs and we saw one person fall and two accidents. Please remember to take extra care this holiday season.

Also saw A Christmas Carol with Jim Carrey in 3-D. Silly me forgot to put my glasses on until the movie was half over. The first half might have been a little different if I would have had them on...haha.

Leaky Roof leads to Room Remodel?!

My daughter, Heather, found her self victim to a leaky roof at the beginning of this winter season. She had her roofer all lined up and ready to go, unfortunately the weather was very uncooperative. She was really feeling for everyone with roof troubles, nothing is as annoying as a leaky roof with no end in sight!

Now that the weather has been agreeable, the roof has finally been fixed. Now she has a new battle to wage. Her daughter, Elinor, is currently lobbying for a room remodel since the leaky roof took place in her room. I wonder who will win this battle?!

My bet is on Elinor.

-KK

A slow November in Real Estate.....or is it?

Historically November is a very slow month in the world of real estate, but this November I am extremely pleased to report that The Koehler-Bortnick Team has sold 11 properties for $2.4 million!! What are we doing to attribute that to?? We just started telling EVERYONE about the $8,oo0 and $6,500 tax credit and it got them excited!!

Tax Advantage of the Tax Credit

To anyone with questions on the tax credit, I particpated in an agent roundtable with 4 other top agents around Kansas City to discuss our plans and strategies to make the most of the Tax Credit extension and expansion. Go to:
http://news.reeceandnichols.com/index.php/2009/10/14/webinar-archive/ for many creative and resourceful ideas to make the most of the tax credit incentives!

Can't Miss Events in KC

Here are some of my "Can't Miss Events" going on this beautiful holiday weekend, I hope you get the time to enjoy at least one!

1. The Country Club Plaza Lighting Ceremony: Don't miss KC native and "Saturday Night Live" cast member Jason Sudeikis flip the switch on the Plaza lights Thanksgiving night!

2. Santa's Arrival: Santa Claus arrives in Crown Center on a horse drawn carriage to kick off the holiday season. Don't miss Sluggerr, KC Wolf, Perry Penguin, Casey the Bear, and other costumed characters Friday, November 27 starting at 10 am.

3. "Wicked" Presented by Broadway Across America: Be sure to catch this spectacular play now showing at the Music Hall! I can't wait to see this with my whole family!!

4.Christmas in The Park: Three hundred thousand lights and 175 animated figures and Christmas cheer transform Longview Lake Park into a winter wonderland!

5. Mizzou vs. KU: Catch the 2009 Border Showdown this Saturday at Arrowhead!

I hope everyone enjoys this fabulous holiday weekend and remember to give thanks for all the great in your life! I know I will!

- KK

10 Important Life Lessons

Some food for thought:

A friend emailed me this list it is a portion of a column written by Regina Brett of The Plain Dealer out of Cleveland titled: "The 45 Lessons Life Taught Me".

Here are just 10 to think about today:
1. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.
2. When in doubt, just take the next small step.
3. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.
4. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends and parents will. Stay in touch.
5. Pay off your credit cards every month.
6. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.
7. Cry with someone. It's more healing than crying alone.
8. It's OK to get angry with God. He can take it.
9. Save for retirement starting with your first paycheck.
10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.

More lessons to come in the future. In the meantime, let me know what you think of these...

*KK

Met my goal for the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer! $8,000 and counting...

Current Total: $8,372 towards the fight against Breast Cancer

New Goal: $10,000...

As many of you know, I am lucky to be a breast cancer survivor. With one sentence from my doctor 2 years ago, I learned just how vital early detection is in the fight against this disease that affects 1 in 8 women in our country --mothers, sisters, friends. In 2008, the American Cancer Society estimated that 182,460 women and 1,990 men were diagnosed with invasive breast cancer. Most sobering of all, breast cancer is the third leading cause of death among all women.

My cancer was a specific tumor described as HER2 positive. HER2 positive tumors tend to grow and spread quickly. They require aggressive treatment, which takes an emotional and physical toll and can be expensive. That's where my goal and all my fabulous supporters come in! This fall, I will be participating in the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer, walking for 39 MILES in Charlotte, NC on October 24-25. I'm excited to be a part of team HER2, the first-ever national walk dedicated to the patients and caregivers affected by HER2-positive breast cancer. My walk raises money for local, regional and national breast cancer organizations to support five areas of the breast cancer cause, including: awareness and education; screening and diagnosis; access to treatment; support services; and, scientific research. Support for the medically underserved is a key priority!

This event is a BIG commitment for me, but one that I feel is absolutely vital. I have spent weekdays working out, and weekends walking countless miles in Tomahawk Creek Trails to prepare for this walk!

Thanks to all my supporters I have currently raised close to $8,500 and have now increased my goal to $10,000, leaving me just $1,500 away and still two months out! I know times are tough, but it seems as though I have tremendous support, and I would love to make it all the way to $10,000! Anything you can give would be much appreciated, and your support would mean the world for me! There are two ways to donate:

1. Make a donation online at http://www.avonwalk.org/. Click on the "Make a Donation" tab and search for Team HER2 in Charlotte, NC. Then find my name and follow the lins for you donations to count for me.



2. Send me a check made out to "Avon Walk for Breast Cancer" at 4811 W. 136th St, Leawood, KS 66224.

By participating in the Avon Walk, you'll allow medically under-insured women and men to recieve the screening, support, and treatment they require. Leading-edge research teams will be provided with the funds they need to fuel thier quest for a cure! Thanks again to all my supporters this cause means the world to me, as does all of your support!

Me with the Money Tree my fantastic team mad for me!

Add Some Sizzle and Spark to Your 4th of July Weekend

Things to Do in Kansas City on this Spectacular Weekend:

Friday:

Booms and Blooms Festival: Powell Gardens hosts a spectacular festival beginning at 9 a.m. and ending with a spectacular fireworks display at dusk!

Admission is $5 -$10. Visit http://www.powellgardens.org/ for more information.

Kansas City Royals: Cheer on the Royals as they take on the Chicago White Sox tonight a 7:10, be sure to catch the firework spectacular at the end! The game starts at 7:10 p.m. visit http://www.royals.mlb.com/ for more information.

Jesse James Park: The historic Jesse James park, just two miles north of downtown Kearney on Missouri 33, will host a fantastic firework display with music, inflatables, bands, concessions, and FREE watermelon!

Friday & Saturday:

KC Riverfest: Celebrate the 4th at Kansas City's Riverfest downtown! Party starts at 3 p.m. on Friday and 1 p.m. on Saturday, complete with ongoing events and live entertainment! The spectacular firework display will be reflected on the water with choreographed music beginning at 10 p.m. both evenings. The festival is a held at Berkley Riverfront Park, on Riverfront Drive, the south side of the Missouri River between Grand and Front Street. Get your discounted tickets online at http://www.kcriverfest.com/.

Saturday:

Kansas City Wizards: Watch Kansas City's own soccer team take on the Houston Dynamo, with fireworks immediately following! Game begins at 8:30 p.m. at the Community America Ballpark!

Fairway/Westwood Fireworks: Catch a beautiful firework display sponsored by the FairwayParks and Recreation Department and the City of Westwood. Show begins at 9:30 p.m. at Bishop Miege High School.

City of Leawood: Celebrate America's birthday in style at Leawood City Park! Complete with games, music, and vendors from 5 - 9:30 p.m. and firework spectacular at 9:45 p.m.

Olathe Fireworks: Spectacular firework display begins at 9:30 p.m. at The Great Mall of the Great Plains!

Celebrate America: Firework display and celebration at World's of Fun. Regular admission charges apply, visit http://www.worldsoffun.com/ for more information!

Celebrate Independence Day in Independence: Come to hear the Spirit of Independence concert band at 8:30 p.m. with fireworks at 9:30 p.m. Festivities will be held at Mormon Visitors Center. Free Admission.

Freedom Fest: Festival begins at 6:30 p.m. at Lewis & Young Park in Louisburg, KS. Family friendly celebration offers food, music, games, and contests followed by fireworks at dusk!

Lee's Summit: Legacy Park's south entrance will open at 6 p.m. and will close at 9 p.m. fireworks are set to begin at 9:30 p.m.

Liberty4th Fest: Children's activities and bands begin at 6 p.m., with fireworks at 9:45 p.m., Fountain Bluff Sports Complex.

Parkville Celebration: Parade at 10 a.m. ending in downtown Parkville. Bands begin at 7:30 p.m. on the lawn of Park University's Graham Tyler Memorial Chapel. Carnival and fireworks over the Missouri River, 9:45 p.m.

Star Spangled Spectacular: Music, games, and food from 4 - 11 p.m. fireworks at 9:30 p.m. at Corporate Woods. Visit http://www.starspangledspectacular.org/.

Hope you all have a fun and fabulous 4th!

Mortgage Market Alert

Daily Commentary
By Larry Baer, Market Alert

Update:
I regret it has taken longer than I would have liked to get this update to you - but I feel confident you understand it has been a very quick day around here. The question I've heard most consistently throughout the day is, "What the heck happened to our mortgage market?"
The following may seem an unusual way to answer your question, but bear with me just a little bit. I think I can provide a clear answer to this question - without burying those with less credit market experience in a bunch of technical credit market mumbo-jumbo. Those with a more developed knowledge of credit market function will find an explanation in the last three paragraphs of this section of my update

Let's assume you have invested your hard-earned money in a $1,000 certificate of deposit that will pay interest of 4.5% annually on your principal. You have willingly made the investment for 2-years with the full knowledge you can't get your principal back until the end of that period of time. For the sake of this example - let's further assume the institution holding your money has the right to extend your commitment time beyond 2-years if interest rates in general rise -- but they are under no obligation to pay you one penny more in terms of your interest rate.
Hmmm, now this last particular feature could be a problem - but only if interest rates rise. As long as interest rates in general stay below 4.5% you'll get your principal back in 2-years -- and you will have made what you deem to be an acceptable return on your money given the risks associated with the transaction. So far - so good, right? The extension risk associated with your new certificate of deposit keeps waking you up at night - you generally like the transaction structure -- but you would be much more comfortable with it if you could find a way to offset the institution's ability to keep your money for a longer period of time than 2-years in a rising interest rate environment.

All you need to do is find a way to profit from failing prices and rising rates in the credit market - and you will have successfully developed a method to offset the majority of any loss you might incur on your certificate of deposit should interest rates in general begin to rise. You ask around and learn that there is indeed a way to "hedge" the extension risk of your certificate of deposit. When interest rates are rising (a bad thing in terms of your extension risk) the prices of private and government CD's are falling. To your delight you discover that in the credit market it is possible to sell an asset you don't currently own - and if the price of that asset falls -- you can buy the asset back and keep the profit. In the business they call it going "short" (see ** below for more detailed explanation). A model using the yield on the 2-year Treasury note is developed as your baseline index to enable you to anticipate future interest rate movement. According to your model, should the yield on the 2-year Treasury note move above 3.61% -- the probabilities are high that interest rates in general will begin rising - and that is a condition that prompts you to spring into action to offset the extension risk related to your 4.5% certificate of deposit. For reasons that go beyond the scope of this example you choose to sell the 2-year Treasury note "short" as a hedge against financial damage you might suffer as a result of rising interest rates. You determine that the extension risk on your CD can largely be offset by the gains you make on the "short sale" of the 2-year Treasury note (as interest rise -- prices fall). Should interest rates settle down and you decide you don't need your CD hedge anymore -- all you have to do is buy the 2-year Treasury note back at the market price - and you're done - until perhaps you find it necessary to put the hedge on again at some later date. No fuss . no muss.

Actuarial experience shows that as mortgage interest rates rise -- borrowers with low note rates become increasing less likely to sell their homes, refinance or in any other way pay off their mortgage early. This tendency is known as extension risk in the mortgage industry - and it was at the core of today's hard sell-off in the mortgage market. Mortgage investors (actual long-term holders of mortgage-backed securities like insurance companies, hedge funds, mutual funds, big money center banks, foreign sovereign governments and others) deemed it necessary to hedge the extension risk of their mortgage-backed security portfolios as the yield on the 10-year Treasury note moved above 3.61% earlier today. The majority of these market participants chose to "short-sale" the 10-year Treasury note - a process that pushed the yield of the Treasury note even higher - and yet models to trigger additional mortgage portfolio extension risk hedges. As the afternoon progressed some investors decided rather than attempting to hedge their extension risk under fast market conditions- they would simply sell their mortgage-backed securities outright. The ensuing snowball effect of these two strategies resulted in the very ugly numbers in the mortgage market at the end of the day.

Looking ahead - if a retracement rally is going to develop in the mortgage market tomorrow - in my opinion it will likely begin in earnest after the close of the Treasury's $26 billion 7-year note auction at 2:00 p.m. ET.

**Here's a quick overview of how "selling-short" works:
Let's say the price of an asset you sold "short" at $2.00 falls to $1.65.
You, the "short" seller, can choose to buy the asset back at the current market price of $1.65 -- and pocket a marketing gain of 35 cents. If you decide to hold off with your buy order -- and the price of the asset you sold "short" falls further to $1.05 - you, the "short" seller, have a marketing gain of 95 cents. But what if the price of the asset you sold at $2.00 moves higher rather than lower you ask? The answer is painfully straightforward - you will incur a marketing loss for every penny higher price moves before you jump into the market place and buy-back the asset you sold "short". In a "short" sell transaction -- no matter which way the price of the asset goes - ultimately, in order to close the transaction, the asset is going to have to be purchased. This may be way more than you wanted to know - but I hope you see it is actually a significant part of the answer to your original question.

Commentary: The mood in the credit markets is ugly this morning as the Treasury Department lines up to dump $35 billion of 5-year notes on investors already staggering under the weight of the government's massive borrowing spree. The Fed is active in the market as a buyer again today - with authorization to spend up to $300 billion to support steady to fractionally lower rates for consumers and businesses. The objective is noble - but the financial firepower is weak. Compared to the $2.5 trillion dollars of supply from Uncle Sam scheduled to wash through the credit market before the end of the government's fiscal year in September - the Fed appears to be engaged in an almost meaningless effort to drain the ocean with a teaspoon. Credit market investors are in a particularly bad humor this morning as General Motors bondholders have rejected the latest restructuring offer from the company's management. The likelihood that the government will soon be called upon to inject "massive" amounts of capital into the automaker simply compounds credit market concerns about the size of future government borrowing. The "so what" factor here from a mortgage perspective is straightforward - increased debt obligations flushing into the credit market from the government will push Treasury prices lower - and in our world when prices fall - interest rates rise.

This morning's release of the April Existing Home Sales figure was almost completely overshadowed by investor nervousness surrounding today's 5-year Treasury note auction and growing anxiety about tomorrow's bigger hurdle of $26 billion in the form of 7-year notes The National Association of Realtors said purchases increased 2.9% on an annualized basis last month. Distressed sales accounted for 45% of all transactions. The inventory of homes for sale increased 8.7% as more homes were listed during the popular spring selling season.
In a related, but separate report the Mortgage Bankers of America said their seasonally adjusted index of loan applications to purchase or refinance a home fell by 14% during the week ended May 22nd. The refinance component of the index fell by 14% while the purchase component gained 1.0%.

THE MARKET IS ALWAYS RIGHT! YOU AND I ARE SOME OF THE TIME.

New Agents!

We are proud to welcome Sarah Crooks from Prudential KC and Dan Hague from Exit Realty to Reece and Nichols and The Koehler Bortnick Team!

The Koehler Bortnick has 25 agents and 4 full time staff to provide you unsurpassed service, providing you with honesty, exposure and results! Big or small, we sell them all.

Sarah Crooks

Dan Hague

Homeownership Still Pays

Many Americans have taken a hit to their home equity over the last couple years and some may wonder if it's really the smartest financial decision to own a home. GOOD NEWS-a recent analysis of Federal Reserve data by the National Association of Realtors shows the answer is yes. In compariosn with renters, home owners may have much greater household wealth. Owners' wealth exceeds that of retners by 50 to 1! The main wealth difference between the tow is home equity, of course. For those who have only owned their home since 2003, home equity gains are the rule rather than the exception and in some cases have been significant! The data clearly show that homeownership remains the biggest store of wealth for the typical household, even when markets are buffeted by some admittedly very rocky years. Article compliments of realtor.org

Memorial Day Celebration

Visit Union Station for the annual free outdoor concert followed by live cannons and one of the biggest fireworks displays in Kansas City.

Date: Sunday, May 24, 2009
Location: Union Station
Concert Time: 7:30PM to 9:15PM
Tickets: FREE to the public
Parking: Parking is available in the West Yards garage at Union Station, and at various area surface lots including Hallmark and Blue Cross & Blue Shield. Parking for a nominal charge is available in the Two Pershing Square garage.
Conductor: Michael Stern
Program: 90-minute patriotic concert, followed by fireworks at 9:15PM

Visit http://www.celebrationatthestation.com/ for more details.

Carpet Stains

Spills Happen BUT stains don't have to. Blot the spot, don't rub or scrub with a clean cloth! Scrubbing can damage the fiber and set the stain. Mix 1/4 teaspoon dishwashing liquid to one cup warm water. Apply and let set for five minutes. Rinse with clear water and blot stain. Repeat if necessary. When the carpet is dry, vacuum to restore texture. This not only saves your carpet, but it saves you from purchasing expensive cleaners! This tip compliments of Carpet Direct.

SPACES

Koehler Bortnick Team listing as seen in SPACES magazine:

Day Trip: Weston, Missouri

David and Ginah, owners of Riverwood Winery are the smiling faces baking brownies and pouring wine at Riverwood Winery in Rushville, Missouri. It's well worth the drive. Take a day trip and enjoy a glass of Urbane Red made from Norton grapes or a not so funny but oh so delicious Dry Whitty White. Tastings are complimentary and so are the smiles. Wines are reasonably priced and the breathtaking views and live performances are free.
Live Music with Jeff Lux

Saturday, May 23rd
12:00 noon - 4:00 pm
Live Music with Dan Bliss

Saturday, May 30th
1:00 pm - 4:00 pm

For more to do in Weston, visit http://www.westonmo.com/visit/main.html.

Blog compliments of Coordinately Yours

Kansas City Barbeque

Arthur Bryant's Barbecue
Cuisine: Barbecue Location: East Price: $$ Moderate
Arthur Bryant's Barbecue has been rated 4 out of 5 stars
Arthur Bryant, the legendary King of Ribs, is the most renowned barbequer in history. He created a sauce that has attracted the likes of former Presidents Harry Truman and Jimmy Carter to his restaurant.

B.B.'s Lawn Side Bar-B-Q
Cuisine: Barbecue Location: Southeast Price: $$ Moderate
B.B.'s Lawn Side Bar-B-Q has been rated 5 out of 5 stars
Where barbecue meets the blues! Live blues Wed.–Sun. nights. Slow-smoked barbecue and Louisiana favorites. Appetizers, soups and sandwiches, sliced thin, piled high.

Filling Station Bar-B-Que Restaurant, The
Cuisine: Barbecue Location: Southeast Price: $ Economy
A little bit of nostalgia and a lot of great barbecue. Family atmosphere, kid’s menu, smoked meats, ribs, chicken, sandwiches, beans, desserts, complete dinners, to-go orders and catering.

Fiorella’s Jack Stack Barbecue - Plaza
Cuisine: Barbecue Location: Country Club Plaza Area Price: $$ Moderate
Fiorella’s Jack Stack Barbecue - Plaza is a Visitor's Choice
Rated #1 barbecue in the country by Zagat's. Fresh seafood, certified Angus steaks. Experience the highest service standards and a breathtakingly beautiful venue on the historic Country Club Plaza.

Gates Bar-B-Q - Downtown
Cuisine: Barbecue Location: Downtown/Conv Center Area Price: $$ Moderate
Gates Bar-B-Q - Downtown has been rated 3 out of 5 stars
Gates Bar-B-Q - Downtown is a Visitor's Choice
Family-owned KC barbecue tradition, cafeteria style. Full bar. Major credit cards. Semi-private dining for 30 people.

Oklahoma Joe's
Cuisine: Barbecue Location: Westwood Price $$ Moderate
Barbeque in a gas station worth waiting for. Oklahoma Joe's has a local and national reputation for outstanding bbq.

Smokehouse Bar-B-Que - East
Cuisine: Barbecue Location: East Price: $$ Moderate
Enjoy delicious authentic hickory-pit barbecue in a casual atmosphere. Full bar. Full catering.

The BBQ Shack, LLC
Cuisine: Barbecue Location: Southwest Price: $$ Moderate
When it comes to BBQ, we go Whole Hog! Dine-in BBQ, BBQ catering, roasted pigs, custom smoked meats, and superior service! Stop by The BBQ SHACK to try our mouth-watering BBQ.

Wabash BBQ
Cuisine: Barbecue Location: Regional Price: $$ Moderate
Housed in a former train depot. Live Blues every other Saturday night in the summer. Award-winning Ribs & Chicken. Call ahead for carry-out. Catering available. Located in the Historic Excelsior Springs.

Winslow's Famous Slow's KC- BBQ
Cuisine: Barbecue Location: Downtown/Conv Center Area Price: $$ Moderate
Winslow's BBQ celebrated 35 years in Kansas City with a Mayoral Proclamation making May 22-29th Slow's KC-Style BBQ Week. Slow's serves a mouth-watering blend of slow-cooked meats and homestyle side dishes.

Vanderslice Kitchen and Homes

16900 Stonehaven Drive, Loch Lloyd

The 44th Annual Vanderslice Kitchens and Homes Tour, a benefit for the Kansas City Art Institute, will be held on Wednesday, May 6, 2009, from 10:00 A.M. until 7:00 P.M. This year’s tour, “Resort Style Living At Its Finest” will feature five homes in the gated community at the Village of Loch Lloyd, located at 168th & Holmes Road. Included in the tour will be the original home that Mr. Lloyd built for his family when he began the development. In addition, the Vanderslice Boutique will be presented in the model home at Loch Lloyd, which is completely furnished and is an “Energy Star” rated home -- utilizing many Green Building practices.
A luncheon will also be available at the country club the day of the tour for those who would like to attend. Luncheon reservations must be made by April 24th. Reservations can be made at advancement@kcai.edu, by leaving a message at 816-802-3339, or by sending a reservation and check to the mailing address below. The social will begin at 11:30. Lunch will be served at noon. There will be a cash bar available. Visit 16900 Stonehaven, listed by The Koehler Bortnick Team!

Tickets
Advanced Day tickets: $12
Tour day tickets: $15
Luncheon: $23
One ticket to the tour plus one ticket to the luncheon: $35

Tickets are available at most area Hen House Markets.


For more information, visit KCAI

Clutter Free Kitchen

Organizing the Kitchen Checklist:
An organized kitchen allows you to cook more efficiently, clean up quickly―and find everything you need instantly.
Take inventory. Pull all items out of the cupboards and place on a large table. Put things into groups, creating a loose hierarchy based on how often you use the pieces.
Donate or toss. Evaluate each item. If you have three frying pans of the same size, donate one, along with anything you haven’t used in a couple of years. Discard anything that’s broken and can’t be repaired or is missing parts, like a pot without a handle.
Create zones. When putting back items, place those used for cooking and food preparation in cabinets near the stove and work surfaces; those for eating should be closer to the sink, refrigerator, and dishwasher.
Create a hot zone. Designate a place around the stove and the sink for the essentials: oil, vinegar, knives, and cutting board.
Place items within reach. If you cook frequently, keep ingredients where you will be using them: the basket of potatoes near the cutting board; sugar and flour near the stand mixer.

From realsimple.com

Let's Make a Deal?

You may not know if a home is worth the asking price. Home prices are typically where they should be because homeowners have become more realistic with asking prices. "Most of the big declines in home prices have occurred, " says Lawrence Yun, economist with the National Association of Realtors on CNBC.com. According to NAR, median home prices have actually risen in recent weeks. With low interest rates, the $8,000 tax credit and a surplus of homes it is an excellent time to buy.

Are you considering a move but not sure what your home is worth? E-mail me and I can help.

Open House Weekend

This weekend is Reece and Nichol's Open House Celebration! Stroll through one of our homes Saturday or Sunday from 1-4

April Newsletter

Common First Time Buyer Mistakes

#1. Not finding the right person to guide you through the home buying process. A well trained agent will guide you through the process flawlessly and be able to accurately assess your needs finding homes that fit them.

#2. Not checking your credit report and score/getting prequalified.
You need to be prepared should you find the home of your dreams. You have to be pre-approved to be competitive and don’t want to make an offer on a home you cannot afford. Before you choose a lender, visit annualcreditreport.com a free credit report. You can easily dispute errors and don’t have to sign up for a monthly service.

#3. Thinking about resale later. You might find the home of your dreams, but it may not be properly priced or have less than desirable attributes to others. Just because it’s listed as a 3 bedroom, doesn’t necessarily mean that it is. Look to your realtor for guidance.

Heather Borntick has been honored as one of Ingram's 40 Under Forty

Congratulations to Heather Bortnick!
It would take more than economic meltdown to faze Heather Bortnick. The 39-year-old real estate maven has braved worse things than a plunging Dow. Bortnick is a co-founder of The Koehler Bortnick Team real estate company. She and her mother started the venture in 1996, and last year it recorded more than $143 million in closings, making it a leader in the Kansas City market and catching the attention of The Wall Street Journal, which ranked the firm fifteenth in the nation. For Bortnick, the national recognition is nice, but since her diagnosis with Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma in 2003, she’s good at putting praise and problems into perspective. “Concern for my health created perspective in my life and enhanced my focus to build a sustainable business in the metro,” says Bortnick, who is married with two children. “My family is the reason I am able to be optimistic and focus on my personal, professional and philanthropic goals.” Bortnick is a sustaining member of the Lyric Opera of Kansas City, is active in the Disney Marathon and Black Tie Ball fundraisers for the Leuk-emia & Lymphoma Society and is a parent volunteer at The Pembroke Hill School.

Parade of Homes

Parade of Homes kicks off Saturday, April 18th and runs daily

until May 3rd from 11-6. Over 337 homes will be open, including

several Koehler Bortnick Team Properties.

For more information, visit the KCBA.

13710 Pebblebrook Lane, Pebblebrook Farms

11885 Greenbriar Cove, The National

16612 NE 121st Terrace, Holmes Creek

Blue River Woods

More Layoffs

"Hallmark Cards Inc. plans to cut as many as 750 jobs during the next six months, prompted by the recession and falling consumer confidence" according to the Kansas City Business Journal. This news comes as the real estate market has picked up, however, this could add to the already gloomy number of short sales and foreclosures in Kansas City.

Pricing Your Home to Sell

When you price you home to sell, you will end up netting more than if you overprice your home. It can often create a frenzy of buyers rushing to see your home and a bidding war to get your home and recieve a full price offer! You can ask whatever you want for your home, however, the end result often is less showings, more mortgage payments, more days on market and more low ball offers. Buyers don't take you seriously. Your home is only worth what someone is willing to pay for it.

Not sure what your home is worth? Feel free to contact us, we're happy to help.

This Weekend in Kansas City

Saturday
Easter Egg Hunt at Powell Gardens 816-697-2600
Easter Parade at Zona Rosa 816-587-8180
"Wizard of Oz" characters at Crown Center 816-274-8444
Vine Street Boogie-American Jazz Museum 816-474-6262
Royals Baseball! Game Time 6:10

Sunday
Easter Egg Hunt at Shatto Milk Company 816-930-3862
Royals Baseball! Check out the "new" stadium 1:10

First Time Home Buyer Seminar

Don't miss it! This Saturday, April 11th from 1-4pm at The Ellington on Country Club Plaza. Learn about the $8,000 tax credit and the home buying process while enjoying wine and cheese offered by Mid-America Mortgage Services and The Koehler Bortnick Team.

Landscaping Tips for Listing Your Home

Giving your home curb appeal will entice buyers into your home. Try these tips as you prepare your home to sell:

Trim your bushes to reveal details and windows.
Place a pot of colorful flowers on your front porch.
Give your door a fresh coat of paint.
Edge the grass around sidewalks.
Purchase a new doormat.
Clean your windows.
Hang a wreath.

A few simple changes can make your house feel more like home to potential buyers.

Latest Layoffs

Bernstein Rein just laid off additional employees and Sprint completed most of it's 8,000 job cuts. However, Smith Electric Vehicles just announced that it will bring a plant to the KC International Airport. For more information, visit the Kansas City Business Journal.

Kansas City Market Report

The end is in sight! Forecasters predict that home prices will bottom out at the end of 2009. Mike Larson, Weiss Research real estate analyst cited on CNN said that “the recovery will look more like a U than a V.” Fortunately, the Midwest has not been hit as severe as coastal areas, however, your home is likely only worth what it was in 2000.

March Market Trends are now available for the Kansas City area exclusively through The Koehler-Bortnick Team! Email us at info@koehlerbortnick.com!

K|B Updates for the week of 3/23/09

NEW LISTINGS :

7869 W. 156th St., The Ridge at Pinewood - $264,950

4006 Homestead, Indian Hills - $650,000

1408 NW Madison Ct., Whitney Hills - $179,950

16305 Stears Ct., Lakeshore Estates - $589,000

5028 Sunset, Sunset Hill - $1,239,500

15594 S. Blackfeather St., Woodland Creek - $209,950

14713 Sherwood, Pavilions - $774,950

5448 W. 153rd, Brittney Woods - $269,000

14805 Rosewood, White Horse - $615,000

8530 Roe, Town & Country - $824,950

REDUCED : 

2512 W. 145th, Leawood - $429,900

8227 Cherokee Cir, Leawood - $549,950

14801 Catalina - $399,950

4026 W. 72nd Terr. - $199,950

5418 W. 164 Pl., Overland Park - $499,000

SOLD!

513 SW Woods Chapel, Shadow Glen

1219 W. 62nd St., Sunset

5814 W. 131st, Harwycke

What's My Home Worth?

Who says homes over one million aren’t selling? We sold 2 last week! Don’t let the media dictate your attitude on today’s market. Speak to a real estate professional who can give you honest and accurate information that reflects your area. Homes on the coast are still moving slow, however in the Midwest we’ve seen an increase. 

Want to know what your home is worth?
Contact us and we’d be happy to help. We can give you the at market and ahead of market price for your home depending on the time frame you’d like to move.

16300 Goddard St., Deer Valley - New K|B Luxury Property!

We've added a new listing to our K|B Luxury Properties : 

16300 Goddard Street, Deer Valley - $519,950

K|B Updates for the week of 3/16/09

NEW LISTINGS :

803 W. 48th St., #904 - $750,00

13113 Beverly, Deer Creek - $499,950

10804 W. 131st St., St. Andrews Highlands - $349,950

1436 Natalee Ct., Wellington Park - $334,950

5401 Mission Road, Fairway - $310,000

21447 Mission Road - $299,950

15594 S. Blackfeather St. - $259,900

9400 Moody Park - $174,500

100 E. Sweeney Blvd, Indian Village - $124,950

5232 Franklin Dr., Sheraton Estates - $100,000

REDUCED : 

1230 W. 61st Terr., Suncrest - $1,499,900

2501 W. 69th St., Mission Hills - $899,950

1221 W. 59th St., Suncrest - $679,000

16300 Goddard St., Deer Valley - $519,950

4529 Madison Ave., The Madison - $379,950

15700 Howe, Blackthorne Estates - $329,950

SOLD!

445 W. 63rd St., Brookside

3009 W. 118th St., Hallbrook

1241 W. 58th St., Sunset Hill

13937 Canterbury, Tuscany Reserve

13725 Pembroke

21032 W. 114th St

K|B Updates for the week of 3/9/09

NEW K|B LISTINGS: (click address to view all new listings)

-13004 Windsor Cir, Waterford - $549,950

-608 St. Andrew Drive, Blue Hills South - $359,950

-1219 W. 62nd St, Kansas City - $399,950

-17th and US Highway 24 - $270,550

-2501 W. 69th St., Mission Hills - $925,000

-1251 Denver Ave - $7,300

-1105 Prairie Lane - $142,500

-11212 Juniper Dr., Leawood Country Manor - $399,950

-5232 Franklin Dr., Sheraton Estates - $100,000

-803 W. 48th St. #904, Churchill - $750,000

SOLD!

-9121 Redbud Lane, Falcon Ridge - K|B Luxury Property

-8201 W. 156th St., The Ridge at Pinewood

-445 W. 63rd St, Brookside

-1241 W. 58th St., Sunset Hill - K|B Luxury Property

-7901 W. 130th St

-4615 N. Wyandotte

REDUCED : (click address to view all reduced listings)

-1004 W. 68th Terr., - $424,950

-13415 W. 55th St., Shawnee, KS - K|B Luxury Property - $1,095,000

-13701 W. 54th Terr., Shawnee, KS - $385,000

-6918 Roundtree St., Shawnee, KS - $269,950

-3407 W. 138th St., Leawood, KS - K|B Luxury Property - $924,950

-4213 W. 150th St., Leawood, KS - $524,950

Welcome to the Koehler Bortnick Team Blog!

Each week, we'll update our KB Blog with news about the Kansas City Realty market, home buying advice, selling tips and more!