Top 5 Markets for Kansas Real Estate Investors in 2024

Real Estate investors from across the country are headed towards Kansas to build rental property portfolios. The Sunflower State is a current favorite of real estate investors due to many factors. These include a strong economy, affordable prices and stable rents!  Easy Street Capital is proud to be a leading provider of loans for rental properties for real estate investors looking to build rental portfolios in Kansas!

 

 

Types of Loans for Kansas Real Estate Investors

 

When it comes to real estate investing in Kansas, there are many markets and types of investment property loans to choose from.  For investors that like to get their hands dirty, rehabbing run-down properties, hard money renovation loans are a perfect choice!  These loans allow you to buy a property quickly and finance your rehab costs as well!  Once you are done, you can either “flip” the property for a quick profit or pursue the BRRRR Strategy by renting it out and then refinancing into a long-term, low-rate DSCR loan!

 

EasyFix                EasyRent

 

Long-term DSCR Loans are also great for investing in turnkey rental properties.  Turnkey refers to properties that are rent-ready and require no renovations.  Move-in ready single-family homes and fully furnished short term rentals are great for cash flow and price appreciation.  Most DSCR Loans are fixed rates for thirty years, locking you into a fixed interest rate for the long-term. While, if historical patterns continue, rents and appreciation increase steadily each year.  Bottom line, debt costs stay the same while cash flow increases!

 

Real estate investors in Kansas appreciate the market’s advantageous feature of no prepayment penalties, allowing them the freedom to refinance without any financial constraints. Although some lenders may adjust interest rates slightly higher to accommodate this flexibility, the ability to refinance presents a significant advantage for investors seeking greater financial freedom.

 

Where To Invest In Real Estate In Kansas

 

 Kansas offers a variety of attractive real estate investment options. As the largest city, Wichita provides a diverse economy and a growing population, making it an appealing choice for investors. Kansas City, located on the border of Kansas and Missouri, combines urban amenities with suburban charm. Topeka is the capital of the state with a sizable population. Furthermore, Lawrence is home to the flagship university, University of Kansas. Lastly, Great Bend is a town located in southern Kansas that brings visitors in for its outdoors and wildlife.

 

 

Wichita

 

Wichita, the largest city in Kansas, boasts a population of over 390,000 residents, making it a bustling urban center. The city’s diverse economy encompasses sectors such as aviation, manufacturing, and healthcare, providing a solid foundation for rental property owners. Wichita is home to major corporations like Spirit AeroSystems and Koch Industries, contributing to a stable job market and rental demand in the area.

 

Wichita’s robust economy and growing population make it an appealing market for real estate investors. The city’s job opportunities and population growth create a consistent need for rental properties, with potential for long-term leases, medium-term rentals, and short-term rentals. Wichita is not only an economic hub but also offers a rich cultural scene. The city features impressive museums, such as the Wichita Art Museum and the Exploration Place, providing engaging experiences for residents and visitors.

 

Real estate investors can find very affordable investment opportunities in Wichita, with the median sales price for a single-family home in January 2024 at $205,000, according to Redfin. In addition, Zillow reports that the average market rent in Wichita in March 2024 was $2,000 per month. Investors using rental loans can take advantage of low-down payment options and earn substantial cash flow with potentially high cash-on-cash returns.

 

 

Kansas City

 

Kansas City, the third largest city in the state, boasts a population exceeding 150,000 and serves as an economic hub for the state with its thriving and diversified economy. Major industries in the area include healthcare, manufacturing, and logistics.  The presence of major companies like Cerner Corporation and Sprint Corporation contributes to a strong and stable job market, with a low unemployment rate.

 

This city offers highly favorable conditions for real estate investors, with remarkably affordable and lucrative housing opportunities. As of 2024, the average price of a single-family home stands at approximately $203,000, as reported by Redfin. This represents a notable year-to-year increase of 19.4%! Additionally, the average median rent in March of the same year is $1,170, according to Zillow. These two key metrics establish an exceptional price-to-rent ratio, positioning Kansas City as an advantageous market where investors can secure substantial rental income relative to property prices, surpassing many comparable markets.

 

Kansas City is also renowned for its vibrant events and attractions that draw in visitors throughout the year. The city offers a diverse range of cultural and entertainment experiences, including the Kansas Speedway and Legends Outlets Kansas City. The proximity to Kansas City, Missouri, provides easy access to popular destinations such as the Country Club Plaza and the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art.

 

 

 

Topeka

 

Topeka, the capital city of Kansas, stands as a dynamic and thriving economic center with a population exceeding 125,000 residents. The city’s diversified economy encompasses various sectors, including healthcare, manufacturing, and government services. Notable companies such as Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas, Hill’s Pet Nutrition, and Washburn University contribute to a robust job market and overall economic stability, reflected in the city’s low unemployment rate.

 

Real estate investors are presented with highly favorable conditions in Topeka, with affordable and potentially lucrative housing opportunities. As of the current year, the average price of a single-family home in Topeka is approximately $172,026, according to Zillow

 

Topeka is not only an economic powerhouse but also a city rich in culture and attractions. Visitors can explore renowned destinations such as the Kansas State Capitol, the Topeka Zoo, and the Combat Air Museum. The city also hosts numerous annual events, including the Kansas Chocolate Festival and the Kansas State Fair, which attract visitors from near and far.

 

 

Lawrence 

 

Lawrence is located in the eastern part of the state and home to around 98,000 residents.  The city’s vibrant arts and culture scene, including art galleries, theaters, and music festivals, create a dynamic atmosphere for residents and visitors alike. With a population of over 98,000 residents, Lawrence offers a diverse and thriving community just outside of Kansas City.

 

Furthermore, it is an ideal market for real estate investors specializing in student housing. The University of Kansas hosts around 27,000 students each year. The university’s large student population drives a consistent demand for rental properties near campus. Investors who target well-located properties and cater to the needs of students can benefit from higher rental returns compared to traditional long-term rentals. Visitors from both near and far visit Lawrence to witness the exhilarating games of the Kansas Jayhawks college basketball team, creating a high demand for weekend rentals to accommodate their stay.

 

Additionally, Lawrence’s annual events such as the Lawrence Arts Center Art Tougeau Parade and the Free State Festival attract tourists, creating potential opportunities for short-term rentals and increased rental income.

 

 

Great Bend

 

Great Bend offers unique opportunities for real estate investors, drawing on its close proximity to the Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Refuge. Known as a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, the Cheyenne Bottoms Refuge is a vast wetland complex that attracts a diverse array of migratory birds and provides breathtaking views of nature. Those visiting in the winter may be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the elusive Iceland Gull. Visitors can explore the refuge through guided tours, hiking trails, and observation points, immersing themselves in the beauty of the natural surroundings. For real estate investors, Great Bend’s connection to the Cheyenne Bottoms Refuge opens up possibilities for vacation rentals and accommodations tailored to those seeking a peaceful retreat amidst stunning landscapes. With the combination of remarkable wildlife and the allure of the refuge, Great Bend presents a distinctive market for real estate investment.

 

Great Bend offers great outdoors attraction for visitors to enjoy. The biggest attraction is the Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area, which is a vast wetland complex known for its birdwatching opportunities. Furthermore, the Kansas Wetlands Education Center can be an exciting place to learn about wetland ecosystems. Visitors can also explore the Barton County Historical Society Museum and Village to delve into the region’s history.  

 

Great Bend has garnered positive recognition in the real estate investment landscape, receiving a Market Grade of A+ from AirDNA. With an impressive rating of 100/100 on “investability,” Great Bend presents a compelling investment opportunity. Furthermore, the average monthly revenue of $2,150 reinforces the potential for attractive returns. Situated in the heart of the Midwest, Great Bend offers visitors an exceptional experience in wildlife and outdoor activities.

 

Ready to Get Started?

 

Ready to invest in real estate in Kansas?  Easy Street Capital is top lender for rental property loans in Kansas, both hard money rehabs and long-term rental properties.

 

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About the Author

Reed Morley