Sometimes the initials in an acronym are helpful, but ‘REO’ (short for Real Estate Owned) isn’t one of them. After all, isn’t all real estate owned by somebody? What the headline writers are talking about is a property, usually a repossessed home, owned by a lender. That’s usually a bank, government agency, or government loan guarantor, which typically comes into possession after a failed sale at a foreclosure auction.

It’s December and Kansas City residents who have been keeping an eye on the real estate market may be beginning to see renewed signs of life. The stirrings are still relatively minor, but those of us who have studied the ups and downs of real estate markets for the past decade or two know this is what happens right before substantial activity gathers wider attention.

You don’t have to be real estate expert to offer your home for sale, but especially in today’s ever changing and challenging market, it’s all but a necessity to join forces with a real estate agent who is. Residential real estate in Kansas City is still selling, but the market is not one which favors those who leave the details to chance. As much as any time in the past, success belongs to those who prepare for success. And one of the most important steps in the process is also one of the first steps -- choosing your greatest ally, your listing agent. Thorough preparation will mean interviewing at least three real estate agents. Keep in mind...

There are many people today facing financial hardship. This hardship can often time lead to an inability to make your mortgage payment. But don't give up hope & figure foreclosure if your only option. In fact most lenders are getting much better at helping sellers with available alternatives.