Make the Most of Thanksgiving in Kansas City
Thanksgiving weekend in Kansas City is a time to gather, celebrate, and kick off the holiday season in style. Whether you’re craving a stress-free Thanksgiving dinner, looking to explore festive traditions, or simply want to make the most of the long weekend, Kansas City offers something for everyone. From the dazzling Plaza Lights Ceremony to family-friendly activities like ice skating and holiday shopping, the city is alive with seasonal cheer. This guide will help you navigate the best events, dining options, and experiences to create unforgettable memories with loved ones. Let’s dive into everything happening around KC this Thanksgiving! Thanksgiving Weekend Activities in Kansas City Gillham GobbleTrot: Kick off Thanksgiving Day with this family-friendly 5K run/walk on Thursday, November 28th, at 9 a.m. starting at the Pilgrim Chapel. It's a great way to get moving and connect with the community before indulging in your holiday feast. Learn more. Kansas City Turkey Trot 5K Start your Thanksgiving Day with the Kansas City Turkey Trot 5K at Swope Park. This family-friendly event encourages participants to run or walk, promoting health and community spirit. The race begins at 9 a.m. on Thursday, November 28, 2024. Learn more. Thanksgiving Dinner at Kansas City Restaurants: For those who prefer to skip the cooking, Kansas City offers fantastic dining options on Thanksgiving Day. Check out the list of restaurants below for traditional turkey dinners and unique holiday menus. Ice Skating at Crown Center: Open daily starting November 1st, the Crown Center Ice Terrace is a must-visit over Thanksgiving weekend. Enjoy outdoor ice skating with friends and family to embrace the winter spirit. Learn more. Kansas City Plaza Lights Ceremony: Wrap up your Thanksgiving Day on November 28th with the iconic Plaza Lights Ceremony at the Country Club Plaza. Festivities start at 5 p.m., with the lighting ceremony at 6:30 p.m. This tradition brings the city together to celebrate the start of the holiday season with music, entertainment, and magical lights. Learn more. Holiday Reflections at Union Station Experience the magic of the season at Union Station's Holiday Reflections. This walk-through village features festive decorations, towering trees, and classic seasonal films. The event runs from November 22, 2024, through January 1, 2025. Learn more. Holiday Shopping at Merry Market: After Thanksgiving, dive into holiday shopping at the City Market’s Merry Market. This festive market features over 75 local retailers across four weekends in November and December, starting on Black Friday, November 29th. Learn more. Thanksgiving Dining Options If you're opting to dine out this Thanksgiving, Kansas City offers a variety of restaurants serving delectable holiday meals. Here are some top picks: Eddie V's Prime Seafood: Known for their luxurious seafood options, Eddie V's offers a slow-roasted turkey dinner alongside their regular menu. Garozzo's Ristorante: This local Italian favorite serves a prix-fixe Thanksgiving menu with options for dine-in and carry-out, including turkey and classic Italian dishes. The Stilwell: Located at the Loews Kansas City Hotel, The Stilwell provides a sophisticated holiday dining experience with roasted turkey and gourmet sides. Grand Street Cafe: Enjoy a buffet-style Thanksgiving dinner featuring turkey, ham, prime rib, and a variety of sides and desserts.
Is Now the Best Time to Sell Your Home in Kansas City? Here's Why the Holidays Could Be Perfect
The holiday season is a unique time in real estate, often seen as a “quiet period.” But, in reality, it can be one of the best times to sell. If you’re considering listing your home in Kansas City, now may be the perfect time to capitalize on a blend of serious buyers, reduced competition, and high demand for key home features. Here’s why listing your home during the holidays might be the move that leads to a successful sale. Advantages of Selling Now 1. Serious Buyers Are on the Hunt During the holidays, the buyers who are actively looking are typically more motivated to close. With fewer casual lookers, you’re likely to encounter individuals who need to relocate, settle before the new year, or take advantage of year-end tax benefits. This urgency means these buyers are often ready to make competitive offers, which can lead to a quicker and smoother sale. 2. Less Competition Means Your Home Stands Out In Kansas City, many homeowners wait until spring to list their properties, leading to a surge in competition. By listing during the fall and winter, your home has a greater chance of standing out. Reduced competition can lead to stronger offers and faster sales, particularly in highly desirable Kansas City neighborhoods like Liberty, Parkville, the Northland, and Smithville. Your property may be exactly what a motivated buyer is seeking, especially with fewer options available. 3. High Buyer Demand for Key Features Kansas City buyers are currently prioritizing homes with move-in-ready finishes, outdoor spaces, and practical layouts. If your home is updated, well-maintained, or offers unique features like a large yard, a modern kitchen, or outdoor entertainment areas, it could attract high interest from buyers looking to close on a home quickly. Especially during the holiday season, a home that meets these desires may have a competitive edge in the market. Holiday Decor: A Warm Welcome for Buyers One of the seasonal benefits of listing during the holidays is the opportunity to stage your home with tasteful, cozy decor. Thoughtfully placed holiday decorations can enhance your home’s warmth and make it more inviting, helping buyers imagine themselves celebrating holidays in the space. Keep decor minimal and neutral—think warm lighting, a simple wreath, or a few candles—to highlight your home’s best features without overwhelming buyers. Decorating Tips for Holiday Listings: Use soft, warm lighting to create a welcoming atmosphere. Keep decorations simple to let the home’s features shine. Add subtle, seasonal touches like a wreath or garland to boost curb appeal. Avoid personal or religious items to appeal to a broader audience. Questions to Consider Before Selling The decision to sell always depends on personal goals and circumstances. Here are a few questions to help guide your decision: What’s my timeline? If you’re aiming to relocate early next year or free up finances, before the holiday season begins could be an ideal time to get started. What are my financial goals? Knowing your financial expectations can clarify whether today’s market aligns with your needs. The holidays can attract buyers who are prepared to meet competitive pricing. Is my property market-ready? Homes that are clean, staged, and well-maintained tend to perform better. If you’re unsure where to start, our team at Abby Powers & Company can help with a comprehensive market preparation plan tailored to highlight your home’s best attributes. Why the Holiday Market in Kansas City Works The Kansas City market holds steady even in the winter, partly due to limited housing inventory and ongoing buyer demand. Many potential buyers are focused on finding homes with practical layouts, functional spaces, and attractive outdoor areas—even in colder months. Listing during the holidays allows you to take advantage of this demand while offering a comfortable space for buyers seeking cozy winter retreats. Additionally, year-end tax benefits often encourage buyers to close before December 31st, creating an extra incentive to make a decision. This combination of motivated buyers, attractive holiday staging, and limited competition can work in your favor if you decide to list now. Ready to Take the Next Step? Selling your home during the holidays can provide unique advantages. From motivated buyers to reduced competition, the season is ripe for the right home to make an impact in Kansas City. At Abby Powers & Company, our real estate knowledge team is here to ensure that your home is positioned for the best possible results. We’re dedicated to providing personalized support, detailed market insights, and comprehensive marketing strategies. When is a good time to chat about positioning your property for the best results? Reach out to us today, and let Abby Powers & Company help you make the most of this holiday season for a successful sale! Abby Powers (913) 963-4753, Bridget Rodewald (817) 709-9411
Understanding Clay County's New Property Tax Relief Program: What Homeowners Need to Know
With rising costs impacting everyday budgets, Clay County in Kansas City, MO, has introduced a property tax relief program designed to support homeowners, particularly those on fixed incomes. Applications for this program will be accepted from January 1, 2025, through March 31, 2025, giving eligible homeowners the opportunity to secure financial relief for the upcoming tax year. Many residents across the county, especially older adults, are experiencing the pressure of annual property tax increases. This new initiative aims to offer much-needed relief, ensuring that homeowners aren’t forced to sacrifice essential expenses to cover their tax obligations. The program provides qualified homeowners with a financial break, helping them manage or reduce their property tax burdens. It's especially beneficial for retirees and other fixed-income residents, enabling them to maintain affordable homeownership in Kansas City without compromising their financial well-being. The program requirements and the specific relief amount vary, so checking eligibility early is essential. How to Qualify for Clay County’s Tax Relief Program The program is targeted at those with a demonstrated need for assistance. Here’s what potential applicants should consider: Income Requirements: The program primarily benefits residents with low to moderate incomes, ensuring that tax relief for homeowners reaches those most impacted by property tax increases. Age and Residency: Senior residents and long-time homeowners in Clay County may be prioritized, as they often face financial strain on fixed retirement incomes. Application Process: The program will require applicants to verify their income level, property ownership, and residency status within Clay County’s real estate market. For those who qualify, this relief program could make a meaningful difference in monthly budgets. Staying informed about application deadlines and required documentation will be crucial to ensuring homeowners don’t miss out on this opportunity. Why Property Tax Relief Matters Programs like these help maintain affordable homeownership in Kansas City and its surrounding areas. By addressing property tax challenges, the county creates an opportunity for homeowners to thrive in their homes while supporting the stability of the Clay County housing market. Take Action Today Clay County homeowners, especially those feeling the pinch of rising costs, should explore this program to see if it’s the right fit. Tax relief for homeowners can significantly impact household finances, and programs like this one are a step toward easing the financial strain for residents in the Kansas City real estate market. For additional details and an application, visit the Clay County property tax relief page. Have questions about how property taxes affect your home’s value or how to position your property for success in the competitive Kansas City real estate market? Don’t wait! Reach out today for expert guidance and actionable strategies tailored to your needs. Together, we can ensure you’re making the most of your investment and achieving the best possible results. Let’s start the conversation now—your next step in real estate success begins here! Call us anytime, Abby Powers (913) 963-4753 or Bridget Rodewald (817) 709-9411
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