Wichita Weekend Report - 2/28/2025

Can you believe it hit 77° on Monday?! We’ve been soaking up the nice weather—lots of park time, plus we’ve already made our first zoo trip of the year. Feels like spring, but let’s not get too comfortable… March snow in Wichita is basically a tradition. 😅

Anyway, hope you have an amazing weekend—thanks for being here!

In Today's Weekend Report:

• New in Derby - HUGE Park Expansion!

• What's happening this weekend around Wichita?

• Multiple offers AGAIN? The spring market comes early…

• $15,000 home buyer grants start Monday! (Not just first time buyers!)

• New Listing in Derby to check out!

Let's jump right in!

- Caleb Claussen, ReeceNichols South Central Kansas

NEW IN DERBY - PARK EXPANSION

The Derby Planning Commission just gave the green light for phase two of Decarsky Park, and it’s shaping up to be a huge upgrade for the community. They’re adding four more ballfields, a big new concession stand, and a massive parking lot—one of the biggest Derby has seen since the high school football stadium. In total, they’re planning for 763 parking spaces, which should handle over 3,000 extra visitors!

One interesting thing that came up was the possibility of RV hookups for visiting teams and families. It’s not in the budget yet, but they’ve left space open just in case funding allows for it later.

They’re also keeping the design consistent with phase one, so everything—like signage and seating—will match what’s already there. Safety was a big topic, too, with plans for extra batting cages and netting to protect players and spectators.

Construction is set to start in March 2025, and if everything stays on track, phase two will be open by April 2026. Looks like the park is going to be even more of a hotspot for tournaments and local games! You can follow along here for updates on the project: Decarsky Park, Derby.

WHAT'S HAPPENIN’ AROUND TOWN?

Upcoming Events…

Blow Your Own Ornament - Karg Art Glass, February 28

Bluey and Bingo, Pups ‘N Pucks - Intrust Bank Arena, March 1

Planes and Pancakes - Stearman Airfield, March 1

Death By Chocolate - Exploration Place,  March 1

Bank of America - Museums on Us - Wichita Museums,  March 1-2

THE SPRING MARKET ARRIVES EARLY IN WICHITA 🏡

It happens like clockwork every year… One nice 70° day, and suddenly, everyone remembers they want to buy a house. Just this past week, I’ve already seen tons of properties get multiple offers within days of going on the market!

Makes sense, though—who wants to think about moving when the ground is covered in ice and slush? And trying to bribe your friends to help you move over the holidays? Forget about it. Even free pizza has its limits…

But don’t worry, not every house is going into a bidding war (this isn’t 2021 all over again). The homes getting the most attention right now? Move-in ready, a few solid updates, and under about $350K. Those are the ones turning heads.

So remember…

As a Seller - It’s still a seller's market, but the homes getting all the action right now are ones that have done some extra prep before listing. Even just small things like touching up paint, replacing carpet, enhancing curb appeal, or just getting the home in perfect “showing ready” condition. The extra effort is worth it, and often needed right now to sell for top dollar!

As a Buyer - Ignore what I just said above to the sellers, now is the time to snag a DEAL! I just negotiated a $15,000 credit for a client on a brand new home (RARE), mainly because the winter months are slower and homes still need to get sold. But come spring time it will be competitive as ever, that means higher prices and more competition. Just remember to stick to your numbers!

2025 Home Buyer Grants!

With spring right around the corner, this year’s homebuyer grants are about to drop—and you could get up to $15,000 toward a home purchase!

But here’s the catch: Last year, all the grant money was gone in just two months. This time, they’re spreading the funds out over the next few months to give more buyers a shot.

That said, it’s still highly competitive, and getting approved isn’t a walk in the park. You’ll need to work with a rockstar lender who knows how to navigate the process (I know a few!).

If you’re even thinking about using this, don’t wait—reach out to me ASAP!

JOIN THE FUN ON INSTAGRAM 🎉

Find me on Instagram @CalebClaussen ⤵️

Featured Listing

6426 S Cedardale Ave, Derby, KS 67037

🛌 4 Beds    
🛁 4 Baths     📐 3,024 Sq Ft

Listed by: Janel Scott Talman, Reece Nichols South Central Kansas

 Experience the feeling of a vacation every day in this stunning, custom-built waterfront home! Thoughtfully designed and meticulously maintained, this award-winning JL Russell flex plan maximizes breathtaking lake views from nearly every room. Whether you're hosting gatherings or unwinding in your private oasis, this exceptional home offers the perfect blend of elegance, comfort, and tranquility.

 🏠 Feel free to contact me for more details! Just reply to this email! 🏠

That’s all for this week! I hope you have an awesome weekend!

-Caleb Claussen (your favorite Realtor 😉)

P.S. If you’re thinking of buying, selling, or investing around the Wichita market, I’d love to be your real estate resource of choice! Just reply to this email to get started!