One of the most common places buyers get stuck early in the home buying process is financing. There are a lot of loan types out there, and the terminology can make it feel more complicated than it needs to be. The good news: most buyers fall neatly into one or two categories. Here's a plain-language breakdown of the most common loan types available in the Manhattan, KS area — and who each one is typically best suited for.

A PCS move comes with a lot of decisions made under a short timeline. Housing is usually the biggest one — and for families headed to Fort Riley, the question of whether to buy or rent is worth thinking through carefully before your orders drop.

When your student gets accepted to Kansas State University, housing is one of the first big decisions you'll face. Most families default to renting — it feels simpler, lower-risk, and more temporary. But for parents who plan to have their student in Manhattan for four or more years, buying a home is worth a serious look. Here's how to think through both options.

If you've bought or sold a home in the last year, you may have noticed something different about the paperwork and the conversation around agent fees. That's not an accident. In 2024, a landmark legal settlement involving the National Association of Realtors (NAR) changed the rules around how real estate agent commissions work in the U.S. — and the effects are still rippling through the industry.

Spring is traditionally the busiest season in real estate — and 2026 is no exception. Buyers are coming off the sidelines, more homes are hitting the market, and the usual sense of urgency is back. But this spring comes with some important nuances that are worth understanding before you dive in, whether you're buying or selling in the Manhattan, KS area.

Closing day is the finish line of your home purchase — and for most buyers, it comes with a mix of excitement and nerves. The good news is that if you've made it this far, the hard work is largely behind you. Knowing what to expect on closing day can help you walk in feeling prepared and walk out with keys in hand.

Buying your first commercial property is a major milestone. The process is different from residential real estate and often more complex. If you are a first time commercial buyer in Manhattan, KS, understanding what to expect helps you plan and avoid costly missteps.

Choosing the right real estate professional is one of the most important decisions you will make when buying or selling a home. In Manhattan, KS, local knowledge and clear communication can directly impact your results. Knowing what to look for helps you choose with confidence.

Relocating, buying, or building a home is more than a transaction—it’s a turning point. It’s the start of a new chapter, new routines, and new memories. That’s why having the right guide matters.

Preparing your home for sale in Manhattan, KS is about more than cleaning and listing. The right preparation helps attract buyers, reduce time on market, and protect your final price. A clear plan makes the process smoother from the start.

Due diligence is one of the most important parts of buying a home in Kansas. This phase gives buyers time to confirm the property is a good fit and to identify issues before the purchase becomes final. Understanding what happens during due diligence helps you protect your investment.

Buying your first home is a major step. If you are buying a home in Manhattan, KS, understanding the process and local expectations helps you avoid stress and surprises. Preparation is the biggest advantage first time buyers can have.

Selling a home in Manhattan, KS requires more than putting a sign in the yard. Many sellers make avoidable mistakes that slow down sales or reduce final value. Knowing what to watch for helps you position your home correctly from the start.

Location plays a major role in how property value is set and how it holds up over time. In Manhattan, KS, buyers consistently pay attention to where a home sits, not just what it looks like. Understanding local location factors helps you buy smarter and protect long term value.

Touring homes in Manhattan, KS is one of the most exciting steps in the buying process. Whether you are looking in the city or nearby communities like Wamego, Junction City, or Fort Riley, knowing what to look for can save time and prevent costly surprises.

We are excited to share an important update at The Alms Group Real Estate. Our brokerage has new ownership, led by a familiar and trusted team.

Hi, I’m Tray Schmidt, and I’m incredibly honored to step into the role of Managing Broker here at The Alms Group Real Estate.

Whether you're a first-time investor or looking to grow your real estate portfolio, understanding the local market is key. Manhattan, Kansas offers unique opportunities thanks to its diverse tenant base—including students, military families, and professionals—and its strong demand for rental housing. But with opportunity comes nuance. From neighborhood quirks to seasonal market shifts and hidden deals, knowing how to navigate the landscape can make all the difference. Here are my top five tips to help you invest wisely and confidently in the Manhattan market.

Interest rates are one of the most crucial factors in determining the true cost of buying a home. Even a small shift in rates can have a lasting impact on your mortgage payments and overall home affordability. Let’s dive into the ways interest rates influence the cost of homeownership and what buyers should keep in mind as they navigate today’s market.

Have you ever visited Manhattan’s Sunset Zoo? The zoo is near and dear to my heart. From the ages of 2 and 4, my daughters grew up enjoying the zoo. It was a frequent family outing for us. Although one daughter loved all things animals, and the other may have enjoyed the climbing structures on the playground and picnic-ing among the animals more than the animals themselves, it was an easy decision for me to join the Friends of Sunset Zoo Board and eventually hold a position on the Zoo Trust’s Executive Committee.