TL;DR — the short version
Kansas City is a two-state market. Where you live (Kansas or Missouri) affects your taxes, and Kansas City, Missouri has a 1% earnings tax on work done in the city.
Your schedule drives the process. Plan searches, inspections and closing around your season, with virtual tours and remote signing where possible.
Privacy is a real consideration. Ask about off-market options and, with your attorney, buying through an entity.
Plan for a possible move. Trades and contract changes happen, so think about resale and rental potential from day one.
Build a team that works with athletes: a CPA, a lender and an agent who can move on your timeline.
Whether you just signed with a Kansas City team or you’re settling here for the long run, buying a home as a pro athlete comes with challenges most buyers never think about: tight schedules, multi-state taxes, privacy and the chance of a trade.
This guide covers what pro athletes should know about buying in the KC metro, from choosing a side of State Line to protecting your privacy. For the money side, see Athletes and Real Estate in KC: Buy, Rent, or Invest?
1. Kansas or Missouri?
Consideration | Why it matters |
|---|---|
State income tax | Kansas and Missouri have different rates. Where you live affects your filing, alongside taxes owed where you play. |
KCMO earnings tax | 1% on earnings for work performed in Kansas City, Missouri, wherever you live. |
Property tax | Kansas assesses homes at 11.5% of value, Missouri at 19%, with different local levies. |
Commute | Johnson County suburbs, the Plaza area and the Northland each work differently for practice facilities and the airport. |
What to do: Talk to a CPA who works with athletes before choosing a side. Multi-state and “jock tax” rules are complex.
2. Plan Around Your Season
Do the first round of searching virtually: video tours and detailed walkthroughs.
Schedule in-person showings on off-days.
Line up inspectors before writing an offer so the inspection fits your schedule.
Ask your title company about remote or mobile closing options.
3. Privacy and Security
Off-market and discreet listings: ask your agent about homes not publicly listed.
Buying through an entity: some athletes buy through an LLC or trust for privacy. Ask your attorney about the trade-offs, including financing and insurance.
Home features: gated access, setback from the street, security systems and privacy landscaping.
4. Think About Resale From Day One
Trades, releases and contract changes happen. Choose homes that will be easy to sell or rent:
Strong school districts and established neighborhoods hold demand.
Avoid over-customizing in ways only you will value.
Consider whether the home would rent well if you leave the market.
5. Your Team
Who | What they do |
|---|---|
CPA | Multi-state taxes, entity structure, quarterly estimates |
Lender | Experience with contract and endorsement income |
Attorney | Entity purchases, contract review |
Agent | Search, negotiation and coordination around your schedule |
New to Kansas City or ready to buy here?
I’ll handle the search, the negotiation and the logistics around your schedule. Get started →
Frequently Asked Questions
Should a pro athlete live in Kansas or Missouri?
It depends on taxes, commute and lifestyle. Kansas and Missouri tax income differently, and Kansas City, Missouri charges a 1% earnings tax on work done in the city. Get advice from a CPA who works with athletes.
Can I buy a home in Kansas City during the season?
Yes. With virtual tours, off-day showings, pre-scheduled inspections and remote closing options, many athletes buy in-season.
How can athletes keep a home purchase private?
Ask about off-market listings, and talk with your attorney about buying through an LLC or trust.
Should I buy if I might be traded?
If a trade is possible, choose a home that will be easy to resell or rent, or consider renting until your situation is clearer.
Related Resources
The Athlete’s Guide to Buying Real Estate in KC — free guide
Get Started — tell me about your move
This article is general information, not tax, legal or financial advice. Multi-state tax rules are complex. Confirm your situation with a CPA and an attorney.
Free guide
The Athlete’s Guide to Buying Real Estate in KC
How lenders view revenue-share and NIL income, four paths to buying, and when to rent, buy or invest.