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.

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.

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.

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.

For most of the last decade, interest rates were low, and home prices were high, which meant people could afford a house if they could get financing. However, inflation has heated up over the past few months, and interest rates have followed suit. If you're looking to buy a house in 2023, the interest rates will likely be higher than last year.

Winter has always been my favorite season in Manhattan. Enjoying the lights on Poyntz Avenue, ice skating at City Park, watching college basketball, lighting a fire in the fireplace, the occasional layer of snow, and wearing a stocking hat are a few of my favorite winter things! Purchasing a home in winter can also be a great experience that benefits you and your family. Understanding why winter buying can be advantageous will help guide your home purchasing decision. Below are practical reasons why winter can be a great time to buy a home.

Short answer; Yes, if conditions are right. The long answer has to deal a lot more with your specific situation.