Athletes · Kansas City

A Kansas City realtor for athletes, from someone who’s been in the locker room

Landon Nelson walked on at KU and left as a team captain. Now he helps college and pro athletes buy, rent or invest in Kansas City and Johnson County.

Who is a good Kansas City realtor for athletes?

An athlete needs an agent who works around their season. That agent should know how lenders treat NIL, revenue-share and contract income, and should keep things private. Landon Nelson walked on at the University of Kansas and left as a team captain (2021–2025). He was already a licensed agent while he was still playing. He now runs The Standard KC at ReeceNichols, and he works with college athletes, pro players and staff relocating to Kansas City.

What’s different about buying as an athlete

  • Income that lenders read differently. NIL and 1099 income usually counts as self-employment. Many lenders want about two years of tax returns and qualify you on net income. Revenue-share payments and pro contracts each have their own rules. Can college athletes buy a house with NIL income?

  • Buy, rent or invest. If you might be traded or leave in two years, renting or house hacking can beat buying. Athletes: buy, rent or invest? · House hacking near KU

  • Kansas vs. Missouri taxes. The KCMO earnings tax and each state’s income tax affect where pro players live. The pro athlete’s guide to buying in Kansas City

  • In-season logistics. Video tours, e-signing, a trusted inspector and a calendar built around games and travel.

  • Privacy. No social posts about your purchase without your OK, and no public showings of your home without a plan.

Who Landon works with

  • KU and other college athletes buying their first place, or house hacking with teammates

  • Pro players and team staff relocating to Kansas City

  • Retired players and families moving back to the metro

Frequently asked questions

Can a college athlete buy a house with NIL money?

Often, yes. Most lenders treat NIL as self-employment income. That means about two years of tax returns, and qualification is based on net income after expenses. A co-signer or a larger down payment can help in year one.

Should a pro athlete buy or rent in Kansas City?

If you expect to stay three or more years, buying usually wins. If you’re on a short contract, renting or a short-term lease keeps you flexible. Landon can run both scenarios with you.

Where do athletes live in Kansas City?

Johnson County (Leawood, Overland Park, Lenexa) for space, schools and privacy. The Plaza, Brookside and Crossroads for being close to downtown and the stadiums. Lawrence for KU athletes.

Can you help me buy while I’m in season?

Yes. Video tours, electronic signatures and a set inspection and closing calendar mean you can close without missing practice.

Work with The Standard KC

Moving to Kansas City or buying with NIL income?

A private call to talk through your income, timeline and the neighborhoods that fit your season.

The Standard KC
The new standard in real estate.
ReeceNichols Real Estate
434 W 47th St, Kansas City MO 64112 · 816-709-4900
landon.nelson@reecenichols.com · 913-296-3331