April is almost over! 🤯

April 2025 - Issue 003

April is here, and so is the spring swing. This month’s Porch Talk is a quick one—just a few bites of local goodness and a timely home tip for this spring weather :)

Deanna Rose Farmstead - a staple since the 70s! This is a great place for a family outing. Feed baby goats, catch some Perch in the pond, learn how to milk a cow, or get some playground time… Deanna Rose is going to be a regular spot this summer. Free after 2pm Monday-Thursday, or pay $50 for a family membership!

Drastic Measures - a terrific cocktail bar in the heart of downtown Shawnee. It’s in a historic building and the vibes are on point. The drinks range from floral and light to dark and boozy. Well-crafted and made with high intention. Great date night spot!

What’s Happening in KC Real Estate

The spring market is in full swing, and it’s been active! Inventory has been relatively healthy, giving buyers some options—but the best homes are still drawing competition. Crafting strong offers that meet seller expectations while protecting the buyer has been key.

That said, there are still great deals out there—I just helped a client land a home $30K under asking with full inspections and room to negotiate. A big win in today’s market!

April Showers bring May foundation issues…

As we shift into spring, it's not just flowers that bloom—so do foundation issues if water isn’t managed properly. With the back-and-forth between drought and heavy rain, our soil expands and contracts, putting a surprising amount of stress on your home’s foundation. That’s why now is the perfect time for a quick checkup around the exterior.

Start by taking a lap around your home. The soil should slope away from the foundation—ideally dropping about an inch for every six feet. This simple grading ensures rainwater flows away from your home instead of pooling around it.

While you're out there, make sure your gutters are clear of leaves and debris, and that downspouts extend at least 6 feet away from the house. These small steps go a long way in preventing costly water damage and keeping your basement dry.

A little attention now can save you from big headaches later—your foundation (and future self) will thank you!

If you have questions about this, reply to this email and I can help you!

Thanks for reading! If you need anything from me, I’m always a text or phone call away.

-Joe