Wamego, Kansas, a town where rich history and modern charm blend seamlessly, offers its residents a delightful balance of peaceful living and enriching experiences. Known affectionately as Kansas’s Wizard of Oz homage, this community takes pride in its enchanting link to the classic tale, showcased in the much-loved Oz Museum and the annual
Oztoberfest celebration.
However, Wamego is more than just a nod to fairy tale fantasy. It boasts a captivating array of parks, scenic trails, and green spaces perfect for recreation and relaxation. City Park, with its lush landscapes and historic Dutch Mill, provides a picturesque setting for gatherings with family and friends.
For those with a taste for the arts and local culture, the Columbian Theatre
4 | HelloWamego, Kansas • Fall Issue
Hello Wamego, Kansas • Fall Issue |5
Welcome to Wamego
offers an impressive lineup of performances and exhibitions, fostering a vibrant creative spirit within this close-knit community. Meanwhile, the local shops and eateries, each brimming with unique charm, invite you to explore and savor the homegrown flavors and warm, welcoming service.
Education excels here, with well-regarded schools and family-friendly activities creating an ideal environment to nurture young minds. With its idyllic blend of community spirit and small-town allure, Wamego stands as a charming gem in the heart of Kansas, promising a quality of life that captivates and inspires all who call...
Welcome to Wamego: Kansas's Charming Gem
Wamego, Kansas, a town where rich history and modern charm blend seamlessly, offers its residents a delightful balance of peaceful living and enriching experiences. Known affectionately as Kansas’s Wizard of Oz homage, this community takes pride in its enchanting link to the classic tale, showcased in the much-loved Oz Museum and the annual Oztoberfest celebration.
However, Wamego is more than just a nod to fairy tale fantasy. It boasts a captivating array of parks, scenic trails, and green spaces perfect for recreation and relaxation. City Park, with its lush landscapes and historic Dutch Mill, provides a picturesque setting for gatherings with family and friends.
For those with a taste for the arts and local culture, the Columbian Theatre offers an impressive lineup of performances and exhibitions, fostering a vibrant creative spirit within this close-knit community. Meanwhile, the local shops and eateries, each brimming with unique charm, invite you to explore and savor the homegrown flavors and warm, welcoming service.
Education excels here, with well-regarded schools and family-friendly activities creating an ideal environment to nurture young minds. With its idyllic blend of community spirit and small-town allure, Wamego stands as a charming gem in the heart of Kansas, promising a quality of life that captivates and inspires all who call it home.
FEATURED STORY
Kyle Powers Explains How to Prepare Your Wamego Home for Sale
by Kyle Powers
Before listing your home in Wamego, many sellers focus first on timing and price. Those decisions matter, but home preparation often has a greater effect on how quickly a property sells. A buyer notices details within seconds, and those first impressions can shape whether they see potential or problems. To stand out in a competitive market, sellers should focus on repairs, cleanliness, and appearance before the first showing.
One of the most straightforward steps is walking through your house as if you were a buyer. This fresh look often
6 | HelloWamego, Kansas • Fall Issue
Kyle Powers
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
reveals issues that daily life has hidden. Minor home repairs, such as tightening loose handles, fixing a squeaky hinge, or touching up a paint job, may seem minor. Still, they
significantly influence how buyers perceive the property’s condition. Water damage, even when already fixed, should be addressed with care since it raise questions about safety and security.
Lighting is another area that directly shapes impressions. A dimly lit room feels smaller and less welcoming, even when the square footage is generous. Updating light fixtures,
Hello Wamego, Kansas • Fall Issue |7
Kyle Powers Explains How to Prepare Your Wamego Home for Sale
Before listing your home in Wamego, many sellers focus first on timing and price. Those decisions matter, but home preparation often has a greater effect on how quickly a property sells. A buyer notices details within seconds, and those first impressions can shape whether they see potential or problems. To stand out in a competitive market, sellers should focus on repairs, cleanliness, and appearance before the first showing.
One of the most straightforward steps is walking through your house as if you were a buyer. This fresh look often reveals issues that daily life has hidden. Minor home repairs, such as tightening loose handles, fixing a squeaky hinge, or touching up a paint job, may seem minor. Still, they
significantly influence how buyers perceive the property’s condition. Water damage, even when already fixed, should be addressed with care since it raise questions about safety and security.
Lighting is another area that directly shapes impressions. A dimly lit room feels smaller and less welcoming, even when the square footage is generous. Updating light fixtures, opening curtains, or trimming hedges outside can brighten the interior. A well-lit home shows better in photos and in person, making buyers more comfortable from the start.
Personal belongings are also worth considering. Family photos, collections, or bold décor reflect the seller’s personality but may distract buyers. Neutral spaces make it easier for someone touring the house to imagine living there. This is one reason real estate agents often recommend decluttering. Removing excess furniture, boxing up rarely used items, and creating open storage areas can make rooms feel larger and more functional.
Cleaning is essential for selling your home, especially in the kitchen and bathroom, where buyers scrutinize these areas closely. A deep cleaning should include appliances, cabinets, and floors. If carpets are worn, hiring a professional cleaning service may restore them. Hardwood floors should shine, and tile should look fresh. A power washer can give exterior siding, decks, and sidewalks a clean, maintained appearance that contributes to improved curb appeal.
The outside of the property often carries as much weight as the inside. A front door with a fresh coat of paint, trimmed landscaping, and a neatly cut yard sends positive signals before buyers step inside. Sellers do not need a brand-new lawn mower or extensive landscaping to achieve this effect. Even small touches, like sweeping the porch or planting seasonal flowers, can help showcase your home at its best. Buyers also pay attention to key areas such as storage, garages, and basements. An organized closet or neatly stacked garage shows that the home has space to grow. These details may seem small, but they support the impression that the house is move-in ready.
Some sellers wonder if they should complete larger home improvement projects before listing. While major renovations are not always necessary, addressing visible problems is essential. A clean paint job in neutral colors, functioning light fixtures, and a front door that opens smoothly all build confidence. If in doubt, consider hiring a professional for specific repairs rather than leaving projects unfinished. First impressions matter more than most sellers realize, and the proper preparation can strengthen both buyer interest and the final sale price.
Taking these steps not only helps sell a home more quickly, but it can also ease the process for both sides. A well-prepared property often reduces the need for back-and-forth after a home inspection. Buyers feel more comfortable making an offer, and sellers face fewer requests for last-minute fixes.
Working with knowledgeable real estate agents is also valuable. Kyle Powers of Haven Real Estate Group at eXp Realty, LLC in Wamego, helps clients understand which improvements matter most in their neighborhood. He knows when a simple paint job will make a difference, when improved curb appeal will pay off, and when it may be wiser not to spend more before listing your home. While sellers focus on presenting their property, an agent helps position it among other homes in Wamego, KS, and explains the key takeaways buyers are considering.
Preparing a home for the market does not guarantee a specific outcome or the exact amount a seller may earn in commission when it closes, but it does increase the chances of a smoother and more successful process. Sellers who take the time to repair, clean, and declutter often find that their homes sell faster than other homes for sale in the area. When buyers can picture themselves in a property without distraction, the path from showing to closing is more direct.
First impressionsmatter more than mostsellers realize,and the properpreparation canstrengthen both buyer interestand thefinal sale price.
opening curtains, or trimming hedges outside can brighten the interior. A well-lit home shows better in photos and in person, making buyers more comfortable from the start.
Personal belongings are also worth considering. Family photos, collections, or bold décor reflect the seller’s personality but may distract buyers. Neutral spaces make it easier for someone touring the house to imagine living there. This is one reason real estate agents often recommend decluttering. Removing...
FEATURED STORY
Kyle Powers Explains How to Prepare Your Wamego Home for Sale
by Kyle Powers
Before listing your home in Wamego, many sellers focus first on timing and price. Those decisions matter, but home preparation often has a greater effect on how quickly a property sells. A buyer notices details within seconds, and those first impressions can shape whether they see potential or problems. To stand out in a competitive market, sellers should focus on repairs, cleanliness, and appearance before the first showing.
One of the most straightforward steps is walking through your house as if you were a buyer. This fresh look often
8 | HelloWamego, Kansas • Fall Issue
Kyle Powers
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
reveals issues that daily life has hidden. Minor home repairs, such as tightening loose handles, fixing a squeaky hinge, or touching up a paint job, may seem minor. Still, they
significantly influence how buyers perceive the property’s condition. Water damage, even when already fixed, should be addressed with care since it raise questions about safety and security.
Lighting is another area that directly shapes impressions. A dimly lit room feels smaller and less welcoming, even when the square footage is generous. Updating light fixtures,
Hello Wamego, Kansas • Fall Issue |9
Kyle Powers Explains How to Prepare Your Wamego Home for Sale
Before listing your home in Wamego, many sellers focus first on timing and price. Those decisions matter, but home preparation often has a greater effect on how quickly a property sells. A buyer notices details within seconds, and those first impressions can shape whether they see potential or problems. To stand out in a competitive market, sellers should focus on repairs, cleanliness, and appearance before the first showing.
One of the most straightforward steps is walking through your house as if you were a buyer. This fresh look often reveals issues that daily life has hidden. Minor home repairs, such as tightening loose handles, fixing a squeaky hinge, or touching up a paint job, may seem minor. Still, they
significantly influence how buyers perceive the property’s condition. Water damage, even when already fixed, should be addressed with care since it raise questions about safety and security.
Lighting is another area that directly shapes impressions. A dimly lit room feels smaller and less welcoming, even when the square footage is generous. Updating light fixtures, opening curtains, or trimming hedges outside can brighten the interior. A well-lit home shows better in photos and in person, making buyers more comfortable from the start.
Personal belongings are also worth considering. Family photos, collections, or bold décor reflect the seller’s personality but may distract buyers. Neutral spaces make it easier for someone touring the house to imagine living there. This is one reason real estate agents often recommend decluttering. Removing excess furniture, boxing up rarely used items, and creating open storage areas can make rooms feel larger and more functional.
Cleaning is essential for selling your home, especially in the kitchen and bathroom, where buyers scrutinize these areas closely. A deep cleaning should include appliances, cabinets, and floors. If carpets are worn, hiring a professional cleaning service may restore them. Hardwood floors should shine, and tile should look fresh. A power washer can give exterior siding, decks, and sidewalks a clean, maintained appearance that contributes to improved curb appeal.
The outside of the property often carries as much weight as the inside. A front door with a fresh coat of paint, trimmed landscaping, and a neatly cut yard sends positive signals before buyers step inside. Sellers do not need a brand-new lawn mower or extensive landscaping to achieve this effect. Even small touches, like sweeping the porch or planting seasonal flowers, can help showcase your home at its best. Buyers also pay attention to key areas such as storage, garages, and basements. An organized closet or neatly stacked garage shows that the home has space to grow. These details may seem small, but they support the impression that the house is move-in ready.
Some sellers wonder if they should complete larger home improvement projects before listing. While major renovations are not always necessary, addressing visible problems is essential. A clean paint job in neutral colors, functioning light fixtures, and a front door that opens smoothly all build confidence. If in doubt, consider hiring a professional for specific repairs rather than leaving projects unfinished. First impressions matter more than most sellers realize, and the proper preparation can strengthen both buyer interest and the final sale price.
Taking these steps not only helps sell a home more quickly, but it can also ease the process for both sides. A well-prepared property often reduces the need for back-and-forth after a home inspection. Buyers feel more comfortable making an offer, and sellers face fewer requests for last-minute fixes.
Working with knowledgeable real estate agents is also valuable. Kyle Powers of Haven Real Estate Group at eXp Realty, LLC in Wamego, helps clients understand which improvements matter most in their neighborhood. He knows when a simple paint job will make a difference, when improved curb appeal will pay off, and when it may be wiser not to spend more before listing your home. While sellers focus on presenting their property, an agent helps position it among other homes in Wamego, KS, and explains the key takeaways buyers are considering.
Preparing a home for the market does not guarantee a specific outcome or the exact amount a seller may earn in commission when it closes, but it does increase the chances of a smoother and more successful process. Sellers who take the time to repair, clean, and declutter often find that their homes sell faster than other homes for sale in the area. When buyers can picture themselves in a property without distraction, the path from showing to closing is more direct.
First impressions matter morethan mostsellers realize,and theproper preparationcan strengthenboth buyer interestand the final saleprice.
opening curtains, or trimming hedges outside can brighten the interior. A well-lit home shows better in photos and in person, making buyers more comfortable from the start.
Personal belongings are also worth considering. Family photos, collections, or bold décor reflect the seller’s personality but may distract buyers. Neutral spaces make it easier for someone touring the house to imagine living there. This is one reason real estate agents often recommend decluttering. Removing...
FEATURED STORY
Understanding Down Payments, From Zero Percent to Twenty Percent
by Kyle Powers
Many people still believe that buying a home requires saving a 20 percent down payment. That figure has been repeated for decades, often deterring potential buyers from even beginning the process. The reality is more flexible. Mortgage programs today offer buyers a range of options, and many require less than a The idea that every buyer must save twenty percent before purchasing is one of the biggest myths in real estate.20 percent down payment. Knowing how these programs work can make the difference between waiting for years or moving sooner into a
10 | HelloWamego, Kansas • Fall Issue
Kyle Powers
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
home that fits your budget.
The twenty percent standard comes from a time when lending was stricter and mortgage insurance was less common. Lenders preferred large down payments because they lowered their risk if a borrower defaulted. While putting more money down still reduces monthly payments, it is no longer the only way to qualify for a loan. Many loan programs are designed for buyers who cannot or do not want to wait until they have saved a substantial amount.
Conventional loans are a common choice for buyers with good credit. These
Hello Wamego, Kansas • Fall Issue |11
Understanding Down Payments, From Zero Percent to Twenty Percent
Many people still believe that buying a home requires saving a 20 percent down payment. That figure has been repeated for decades, often deterring potential buyers from even beginning the process. The reality is more flexible. Mortgage programs today offer buyers a range of options, and many require less than a The idea that every buyer must save twenty percent before purchasing is one of the biggest myths in real estate.20 percent down payment. Knowing how these programs work can make the difference between waiting for years or moving sooner into a home that fits your budget.
The twenty percent standard comes from a time when lending was stricter and mortgage insurance was less common. Lenders preferred large down payments because they lowered their risk if a borrower defaulted. While putting more money down still reduces monthly payments, it is no longer the only way to qualify for a loan. Many loan programs are designed for buyers who cannot or do not want to wait until they have saved a substantial amount.
Conventional loans are a common choice for buyers with good credit. These loans allow down payments as low as three percent, provided the borrower meets income and credit standards. With less than twenty percent down, the buyer will usually pay private mortgage insurance; however, the cost is often smaller than the time and rent money lost by waiting to save more. Over time, once enough equity has built up in the home, the insurance can be removed.
FHA loans are another path, particularly for first-time buyers or those with less-than-perfect credit. The minimum down payment for an FHA loan is 3.5 percent. While these loans carry mortgage insurance for the life of the loan, they open the door for buyers who might otherwise be excluded from the market. For many, the ability to buy sooner outweighs the extra cost.
VA loans offer an option for eligible veterans, active-duty service members, and some surviving spouses. These loans are among the few that allow for a zero-down payment. VA loans do not require private mortgage insurance, which can significantly lower monthly costs. For those who qualify, this program remains one of the most affordable options for purchasing a home.
USDA loans also offer zero down options in certain rural and suburban areas. These loans are backed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and are designed to support homeownership in smaller communities. They do have income and location requirements, but for qualifying buyers, they can make owning a home possible with no upfront savings.
While each loan type has its own rules and trade-offs, the key point is that there is no single down payment requirement for all buyers. A twenty percent down payment may make sense for some, especially those who want the lowest possible monthly fee and no mortgage insurance. For others, starting with a smaller down payment may allow them to stop renting and begin building equity sooner.
The idea that every buyer must save twenty percent before purchasing is one of the biggest myths in real estate. It keeps many people on the sidelines who might already qualify for a loan today. Consulting with a knowledgeable lender can help clarify which options best fit your financial situation.
For anyone considering a home purchase, the first step is to learn about the available programs and the level of flexibility they offer. Even a modest down payment could be enough to qualify, and with home prices continuing to change, waiting to save may not always be the best strategy. Understanding the facts about down payments can help buyers make a clear plan, whether that means purchasing soon or preparing for the future with confidence.
The ideathat every buyer mustsave twentypercent before purchasingis one of thebiggest myths in realestate.
loans allow down payments as low as three percent, provided the borrower meets income and credit standards. With less than twenty percent down, the buyer will usually pay private mortgage insurance; however, the cost is often smaller than the time and rent money lost by waiting to save more. Over time, once enough equity has built up in the home, the insurance can be removed.
FHA loans are another path, particularly for first-time buyers or those with less-than-perfect credit...
Growing Bright Young Minds and Futures
In the charming city of Wamego, Kansas, education is more than just a foundational pillar—it's a vibrant, thriving community endeavor. Wamego's schools are remarkably committed to nurturing intellectual curiosity and igniting lifelong learning. With dedicated educators and innovative programs, this city sets a high standard for academic excellence.
Wamego's educational institutions pride themselves on personalized attention and a holistic approach to student development. The teachers in Wamego are not just educators but mentors who empower students, fostering environments
where children are encouraged to dream big and think critically. This dedication is reflected in the city’s impressive academic achievements and high student engagement levels.
Moreover, Wamego redefines how students interact with STEM subjects, arts, and athletics. The schools emphasize dynamic coursework and extracurricular activities that spark students' passions and help them discover new
Wamego, Kansas
12 | HelloWamego, Kansas • Fall Issue
Hello Wamego, Kansas • Fall Issue |13
Wamego, Kansas
interests. With state-of-the-art facilities and a supportive community behind them, students in Wamego are prepared to tackle the challenges of tomorrow with confidence and creativity.
Wamego's commitment to creating an enriching educational
experience ensures that every student is equipped with the tools they need to succeed, making it a beacon of educational excellence in the heart of Kansas. Whether it's the...
Wamego, Kansas: Growing Bright Young Minds and Futures
In the charming city of Wamego, Kansas, education is more than just a foundational pillar—it's a vibrant, thriving community endeavor. Wamego's schools are remarkably committed to nurturing intellectual curiosity and igniting lifelong learning. With dedicated educators and innovative programs, this city sets a high standard for academic excellence.
Wamego's educational institutions pride themselves on personalized attention and a holistic approach to student development. The teachers in Wamego are not just educators but mentors who empower students, fostering environments where children are encouraged to dream big and think critically. This dedication is reflected in the city’s impressive academic achievements and high student engagement levels.
Moreover, Wamego redefines how students interact with STEM subjects, arts, and athletics. The schools emphasize dynamic coursework and extracurricular activities that spark students' passions and help them discover new interests. With state-of-the-art facilities and a supportive community behind them, students in Wamego are prepared to tackle the challenges of tomorrow with confidence and creativity.
Wamego's commitment to creating an enriching educational experience ensures that every student is equipped with the tools they need to succeed, making it a beacon of educational excellence in the heart of Kansas. Whether it's the enthusiastic applause at student performances or the pride in academic accomplishments, Wamego stands as a testament to what a community dedicated to education can accomplish.
A Healthcare Gem with a Heart
In the charming town of Wamego, Kansas, healthcare isn't just a service—it's a community cornerstone that's setting standards in compassion and care. Wamego Health Center, a part of the comprehensive network of Ascension Via Christi, is leading the way with cutting-edge medical treatments while maintaining the warmth and personal touch the town is known for. This innovative facility offers a wide array of services, from emergency care to advanced surgical
procedures, all under one roof.
But the heartbeat of healthcare in Wamego lies in its dedicated professionals. The physicians, nurses, and staff provide more than just medical excellence; they deliver care with genuine kindness and concern for each patient. Their commitment to every individual's well-being transforms routine visits into nurturing experiences that reflect the community's spirit.
Wamego is not just keeping up with the ever-evolving healthcare
Wamego, Kansas
14 | HelloWamego, Kansas • Fall Issue
Hello Wamego, Kansas • Fall Issue |15
landscape—it's rising above it. The town’s unwavering focus on preventative care and patient empowerment has created a health-conscious community that thrives. Whether you're a long-time resident or a visitor, you’re embraced with open arms and reassured that Wamego is a remarkable place where care is an art, performed every day.
Wamego, Kansas
Wamego, Kansas: A Healthcare Gem with a Heart
In the charming town of Wamego, Kansas, healthcare isn't just a service—it's a community cornerstone that's setting standards in compassion and care. Wamego Health Center, a part of the comprehensive network of Ascension Via Christi, is leading the way with cutting-edge medical treatments while maintaining the warmth and personal touch the town is known for. This innovative facility offers a wide array of services, from emergency care to advanced surgical procedures, all under one roof.
But the heartbeat of healthcare in Wamego lies in its dedicated professionals. The physicians, nurses, and staff provide more than just medical excellence; they deliver care with genuine kindness and concern for each patient. Their commitment to every individual's well-being transforms routine visits into nurturing experiences that reflect the community's spirit.
Wamego is not just keeping up with the ever-evolving healthcare landscape—it's rising above it. The town’s unwavering focus on preventative care and patient empowerment has created a health-conscious community that thrives. Whether you're a long-time resident or a visitor, you’re embraced with open arms and reassured that Wamego is a remarkable place where care is an art, performed every day.
Hometown Heroes celebrates the brave men and women from Wamego who answered the call to serve. They left their homes, families, and communities to defend our freedoms. They brought with them the values of their upbringing, woven into the fabric of the communities they cherished. Across generations, these heroes stood united, embodying courage, sacrifice, and a love of country that knows no bounds. Whether on land, sea, or in
the skies, they carried the spirit of their hometowns with them, facing challenges with unyielding resolve and selflessness. We honor their service, their legacy, and the communities that raised them. Today, we remember not just their dedication but the strength and unity that bind us all as Americans. Their stories are our stories, a testament to the enduring spirit of the United States and the bonds that make us strong.
Hometown Heroes
18 | HelloWamego, Kansas • Fall Issue
Hometown Heroes
Hometown Heroes celebrates the brave men and women from Wamego who answered the call to serve. They left their homes, families, and communities to defend our freedoms. They brought with them the values of their upbringing, woven into the fabric of the communities they cherished. Across generations, these heroes stood united, embodying courage, sacrifice, and a love of country that knows no bounds. Whether on land, sea, or in the skies, they carried the spirit of their hometowns with them, facing challenges with unyielding resolve and selflessness. We honor their service, their legacy, and the communities that raised them. Today, we remember not just their dedication but the strength and unity that bind us all as Americans. Their stories are our stories, a testament to the enduring spirit of the United States and the bonds that make us strong.
Proudly Partnering with the National League of Cities and the U.S. Conference of Mayors
At HelloNation, we are honored to serve as America’s Video Magazine, bringing to life the stories of over 40,000 towns and cities across the country. Our mission is to celebrate the vibrancy, culture, and opportunities in every community, creating a digital platform that informs, inspires, and connects residents, businesses, and newcomers alike.
We are deeply proud to have the support and endorsement of two of the
nation’s most respected organizations: the National League of Cities (NLC) and the U.S. Conference of Mayors. Through their partnership, the NLC and the U.S. Conference of Mayors affirm their confidence in HelloNation’s vision and our shared belief in the power of storytelling to highlight the unique character of each community.
Their words underscore the importance of our mission: to make every town and city visible on the national stage, highlighting what makes each one special and worth exploring. Together, with the National League of Cities and the U.S. Conference of Mayors, we are committed to ensuring that every community in America has a voice and a platform to shine. Thank you for supporting our journey as we bring local stories to life, one video at a time.
These influential entities advocate tirelessly on behalf of America’s cities, towns, and villages, representing every community and ensuring their voices are heard on a national scale.
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24 | HelloWamego, Kansas • Fall Issue
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These influential entities advocate tirelessly on behalf of America’s cities, towns, and villages, representing every community and ensuring their voices are heard on a national scale.
