Kansas gives buyers a lot of choices, from the fast growing Johnson County suburbs to Flint Hills college towns and military communities. If you are planning a purchase in 2027, this guide covers Wichita, Overland Park, Olathe, Manhattan, and Leavenworth, the loan types we can help you compare, and the state housing agency that may be worth a look. Shay Yates and the True North Yates Group team are a small, Springfield, Missouri based team licensed to lend in Kansas, and we answer the phone. You can also read our Kansas page for a quick overview.
Where buyers are looking in Kansas
Here is a quick tour of places we hear about often. This is not a ranking and not advice about where anyone should live. It is simply a starting point for your own search.
Wichita
The state's largest city and the center of south central Kansas, with McConnell Air Force Base nearby and price points that tend to be more approachable than the Kansas City suburbs.
Overland Park
A large Johnson County suburb in the Kansas City area, with a wide range of established neighborhoods and price points that tend to run higher.
Olathe
The Johnson County seat and a fast growing Kansas City suburb with lots of new construction.
Manhattan
A university town in the Flint Hills close to Fort Riley, so Veteran and military buyers are a regular part of the market.
Leavenworth
On the Missouri River near Fort Leavenworth, with a long history of military buyers and a mix of historic and newer homes.
Loan programs to know in Kansas
Most Kansas buyers end up choosing among a handful of loan types. We compare them side by side for your situation, with no pressure.
- Conventional loans. A flexible choice for buyers with solid credit, and often a good fit for larger purchases or second homes.
- FHA loans. Government insured loans designed with flexible credit and smaller down payments in mind, a common route for first-time buyers.
- VA loans. A benefit for eligible Veterans, service members, and some surviving spouses. Fort Riley, Fort Leavenworth, and McConnell Air Force Base give Kansas a large military community, so VA loans come up often.
- USDA loans. Many Kansas towns outside the Kansas City, Wichita, and Topeka areas may be USDA eligible. Check an address on the USDA map and ask us.
- First-time buyer programs. Help from KHRC, covered below.
First-time buyer help from KHRC
Kansas Housing Resources Corporation (KHRC) is the state agency behind homebuyer programs in Kansas. KHRC runs a First Time Homebuyer program with HOME funds that offers help with down payment for income eligible buyers through participating lenders. KHRC materials note that Johnson County and the cities of Kansas City, Lawrence, Topeka, and Wichita run their own HOME funds, so rules and options differ there. Ask us whether you may qualify.
Program details, limits, and which lenders take part are set by the agency and can change, so please check the agency's own site, KHRC, for the latest. We do not want to promise anything the agency has not. What we can do is look at your situation and tell you honestly what to ask about.
A local thing worth asking about
KHRC notes that its First Time Homebuyer program is not offered in Johnson County or the cities of Kansas City, Lawrence, Topeka, and Wichita, because they run their own HOME funds. Ask us about local programs where you are buying.
How we work with Kansas buyers
The path is the same wherever you are buying. First comes a no pressure conversation about your goals and your budget. Next we look at loan options and, if it makes sense, get you pre-approved so your offer stands out. Once you are under contract, we keep you posted at every step, from the appraisal to the closing table, and we explain each document in plain English. If a question comes up at 9 at night, send a text.
Next steps
Not sure where to start? Start with a simple conversation. We will listen first, then map out a plan that fits your timeline. You can see where we lend on our states we serve page, read the Kansas page, send us a note on the contact page, or start your application. Shay and the team are just a text away.
Frequently asked questions
Is Shay licensed to help with a home loan in Kansas?
Yes. Shay Yates (NMLS 2172921) is licensed through Southwest Funding to originate loans in Kansas. Licensing details are on our Kansas page, and you can verify any loan officer at nmlsconsumeraccess.org.
Does Kansas have a first-time buyer program?
Yes. The Kansas Housing Resources Corporation runs a First Time Homebuyer program through participating lenders, with income and purchase price limits. Ask us whether you may qualify.
Is the state program available everywhere in Kansas?
Not everywhere. KHRC notes that Johnson County and the cities of Kansas City, Lawrence, Topeka, and Wichita run their own HOME funds, so check local options and ask us.
Do I need to live in Missouri to work with you?
No. Our team works with buyers in Kansas and other states by phone, text, and secure online tools, so you can apply and move through the process from home. Reach us any time on the contact page.
This post is general information, not financial advice or a commitment to lend. Programs and eligibility vary and are subject to credit and property approval. Talk with a loan officer about your situation.