MRH Real Estate - Matthew Heath Realtor

10/15/2026

A 401(k) is one of the most common defined contribution plans.

Learn what defined contribution plans are, how they work, common plan types and how they differ from defined benefit pension plans.

10/14/2026

Love ? Learn the key characteristics of Googie-style homes.

From LA to Vegas, step back in time and celebrate the bold, futuristic Googie style of architecture – part of the American landscape for more than 80 years.

10/14/2026

Two rental properties are listed for the same price.

One produces $18,000 in annual net operating income.

The other produces $24,000.

Which is the better investment?

That's where capitalization rates—or cap rates—come into play.

A cap rate measures a property's annual net operating income relative to its purchase price or market value.

Here's a simple example:

A property costs $300,000.

It generates $24,000 annually in net operating income after operating expenses.

$24,000 ÷ $300,000 = 8% cap rate.

That gives investors a way to compare income-producing properties without factoring in individual financing arrangements.

But there's an important distinction:

A higher cap rate doesn't automatically mean a better investment.

It may reflect greater risk, weaker appreciation prospects, deferred maintenance or a less desirable location.

And because cap rates exclude debt service, they don't tell you what your actual cash flow will be after mortgage payments.

They're one tool—not the entire investment analysis.

Good investors evaluate both the potential return and the risk required to earn it.

10/13/2026

Matte brings a relaxed coastal mood. Soft color can still feel fresh.

Revitalize your space with a fresh coat.

10/13/2026

A home can look beautiful and still have expensive problems hiding beneath the surface.

That's why the home inspection is one of the most important parts of the buying process.

An inspector evaluates accessible components of the property, including the roof, foundation, electrical system, plumbing, HVAC and other major features.

But here's something buyers should understand:

A home inspection isn't a pass-or-fail test.

Almost every house will have something noted in the inspection report.

Some findings are minor maintenance issues. Others could involve significant repairs, safety concerns or expenses that deserve further investigation.

The purpose isn't necessarily to find a perfect house.

It's to understand the condition of the property before making a final decision.

Depending on the contract, inspection findings may give you an opportunity to negotiate repairs, request concessions or reconsider the purchase.

And remember, a general home inspection has limitations. Specialized inspections may be necessary for certain concerns.

The goal isn't to eliminate every risk. It's to make an informed decision about the property you're buying.

10/13/2026

Some of Kansas City's most desirable residential features were planted decades before today's buyers were born.

Take a drive through Brookside, Waldo, or one of the older neighborhoods in northeast Kansas City.

You'll notice something that newer subdivisions often haven't had enough time to develop.

Character.

Mature trees arching over residential streets.

Homes with distinctive architectural details.

Front porches that actually face the neighborhood.

Sidewalks connecting homes to parks, schools, and neighborhood businesses.

These things weren't created overnight. They're the result of decades of development, landscaping, maintenance, and community investment.

And they can influence how buyers perceive a neighborhood today.

Of course, older neighborhoods come with trade-offs.

Garages may be smaller. Floor plans may be less open. Some properties require substantial modernization, and infrastructure can be an important consideration.

But here's what makes established neighborhoods interesting from a real estate perspective:

You can renovate a kitchen. You can't instantly recreate a neighborhood that's taken 75 years to mature.

That's why evaluating an older Kansas City home requires looking beyond its square footage, bedroom count, and year built.

The surrounding environment is part of what you're buying.

For homeowners who have lived in these neighborhoods for decades, it's easy to overlook features that have simply become part of everyday life.

But to someone arriving from a newer subdivision, those same features might be exactly what makes the neighborhood appealing.

Sometimes a property's most valuable characteristics aren't found inside the house at all.

10/12/2026

A home listed for $400,000 isn't necessarily worth $400,000.

That's the asking price. And there's an important difference.

List price is a marketing decision. Market value is an economic assessment.

A seller can choose almost any asking price.

But buyers make their decisions based on what else is available, what comparable homes have sold for and how the property measures up against the competition.

That's why two similar homes can be listed at different prices without necessarily having different market values.

And it's why a home priced below its estimated market value can sometimes generate stronger competition than one priced above it.

The goal isn't simply to choose the highest number a seller would like to receive.

It's to understand the property's likely market value and establish a listing strategy that attracts qualified buyers.

A price can be chosen. Market value has to be supported.

10/12/2026

What does 100% home equity mean for homeowners? Find out here.

Borrowing money from your home could be made easier for those owners with 100% home equity.

10/08/2026

Choose grit based on how much material you need to remove. starts smart.

Sandpaper comes in a variety of materials and grit ratings. Learn more about which type to choose for your project from our experts.

10/07/2026

Find out the many benefits of having a good credit score.

Good credit can open many doors for you, not just when it comes to getting a new loan.