What is a typical leasing fee in Kansas City?

Most Kansas City property managers charge between 50-100% of one month's rent as a leasing fee. Alpine charges 75% of the first month's rent with a $500 minimum, which covers marketing, showings, comprehensive screening, and lease execution.

What is a typical renewal fee in Kansas City?

Renewal fees typically range from $0 to 50% of one month's rent. Alpine charges 25% of one month's rent, which covers market rent analysis, tenant re-verification, renewal negotiation, and updated lease preparation.

Why do property managers charge leasing fees?

Leasing is the most labor-intensive part of property management—marketing, showings, screening, and paperwork require significant time and expertise. The leasing fee compensates for this work and incentivizes managers to place quality tenants quickly.

Are leasing fees negotiable?

Sometimes, especially for portfolio owners with multiple properties. However, be cautious about managers willing to drastically reduce fees—they may cut corners on screening or marketing that cost you more in the long run.

Should I choose a manager with no renewal fee?

Not necessarily. Companies with no renewal fee may have higher monthly management fees or may not invest effort in retention. What matters is total cost and tenant retention rates, not individual fee line items.

When is the leasing fee charged?

Alpine charges the leasing fee only when a tenant is successfully placed and moves in. If we market your property but don't find a tenant, you don't pay the leasing fee.

How do leasing fees affect my ROI?

Leasing fees impact your first-year returns on a new tenant. However, the quality of tenant placement (affecting how long they stay and how well they pay) has a much larger long-term impact than the fee amount itself.

Meet Cara Painter: Kansas City’s All in One Real Estate Expert

Q: Who is Cara Painter?

Cara Painter is a Kansas City Realtor® with Compass and co-owner of Alpine Property Management. With over a decade of experience, she specializes in buyer/seller representation, investment properties, property management, and distressed asset transactions.

Posted on April 6, 2025December 17, 2025 by Marcus Painter

Author: Marcus Painter, Founder and Owner | Alpine Property Management Kansas City LLC
Experience: 12+ years managing rental properties in Kansas City | 200+ properties currently managed
Published: April 6, 2025 (Updated December 2025) | Kansas City Metro

Quick Answer

Cara Painter is a Kansas City Realtor® with Compass and co owner of Alpine Property Management, offering comprehensive real estate services including buyer and seller representation, property management, investment property guidance, and specialized expertise in distressed properties, construction, and leasing. With over a decade of experience in sales, property management, and investment planning, Cara helps clients build both their lifestyle and long term wealth through thoughtful real estate decisions. Contact Cara directly at 816-694-0160 or cara.painter@compass.com.

Introduction: A True Full Service Real Estate Professional

In the dynamic world of Kansas City real estate, having a versatile and knowledgeable professional by your side is invaluable. Cara Painter embodies these qualities a seasoned Realtor® whose comprehensive expertise spans buying, selling, property management, and specialized services tailored to meet diverse client needs.

Cara is known for her steady communication, calm problem solving, and a service style that feels warm yet refined. Clients value her market insight and the way she makes each step feel clear, supported, and aligned with the life they want to build.

What Real Estate Services Does Cara Painter Offer?

Buyer and Seller Representation

Whether you’re looking to purchase your dream home or sell your current property, Cara’s strategic approach ensures optimal outcomes. Her deep understanding of the Kansas City market enables her to navigate complex transactions effectively, securing favorable deals for her clients.

For Buyers: Cara helps identify properties that match your lifestyle, budget, and investment goals. Her market knowledge means you won’t overpay, and her negotiation skills work to your advantage.

For Sellers: Cara’s listing expertise includes strategic pricing, professional marketing through Compass’s extensive platform, and guidance through every step of the closing process.

Property Management Through Alpine

As co owner of Alpine Property Management, Cara offers end to end management solutions designed to maximize rental income and minimize the challenges of property ownership. The Alpine team handles everything from tenant acquisition and screening to maintenance coordination and financial reporting.

Alpine’s Results:

96% occupancy rate
98% rent collection rate
14 day average vacancy period
200+ properties currently managed

This combination of real estate sales and property management expertise makes Cara uniquely valuable for investors who want one trusted advisor for both acquisition and ongoing management.

What Specialized Expertise Does Cara Bring?

Investment Properties and Distressed Assets

Cara Painter has extensive experience handling investment opportunities that many agents avoid. Her specialties include distressed properties and foreclosures, multi unit investment properties, fix and flip projects, and auction transactions.

She guides investors through the intricacies of these ventures, identifying profitable opportunities and mitigating risks that less experienced agents might miss.

Construction and Remodeling Guidance

Leveraging her construction expertise, Cara assists clients in remodeling projects aimed at boosting property value. Her insights ensure that renovations are both aesthetically pleasing and financially rewarding critical knowledge for investors looking to maximize ROI on value add properties.

Leasing Services

Cara excels in connecting property owners with suitable tenants, ensuring a seamless leasing process that benefits both parties. This expertise ties directly into Alpine’s property management services, creating a complete solution for landlords.

What Additional Credentials Does Cara Hold?

Beyond her real estate and property management expertise, Cara holds additional certifications that streamline transactions:

Notary Public: Convenient document notarization without additional appointments
Title Services Certification: Deeper understanding of the closing process
At Home with Diversity® (AHWD): Commitment to serving diverse client needs

These credentials offer added convenience and expertise that simplify the real estate process for her clients.

How Can I Contact Cara Painter?

Cara Painter, Realtor® with Compass

Mobile: 816-694-0160
Email: cara.painter@compass.com
Compass Profile: www.compass.com/agents/cara-painter/
Compass Concierge: www.compass.com/concierge/cara-painter

Alpine Property Management Kansas City

Office: 816-343-4520
Address: 208 NE 72nd, Kansas City, MO 64118
Website: www.alpinekansascity.com

Why Work With Cara for Both Buying and Property Management?

Many investors use separate professionals for purchasing properties and managing them. Working with Cara and Alpine creates a seamless experience where your acquisition advisor already understands property management realities.

Benefits of This Integrated Approach:

Better Purchase Decisions: Cara evaluates properties through a management lens, identifying potential maintenance issues, tenant appeal factors, and realistic rental income projections
Faster Transition: Properties move from purchase to rent-ready status quickly because Alpine is involved from day one
Consistent Communication: One trusted relationship instead of coordinating between multiple professionals
Investment Planning: Cara helps clients build portfolios strategically, not just buy individual properties

What Are Clients Saying About Working With Cara?

Clients consistently highlight Cara’s steady communication, calm problem-solving approach, and refined service style. Her market insight and the way she makes each step feel clear and supported sets her apart in the Kansas City real estate market.

Whether you’re a first time homebuyer, a seasoned investor expanding your portfolio, or a property owner seeking professional management, Cara Painter brings the expertise and personal attention to help you achieve your goals.

Conclusion: Your Complete Kansas City Real Estate Resource

Navigating the Kansas City real estate market requires a knowledgeable and versatile professional. Cara Painter embodies these qualities, offering a comprehensive suite of services that cater to a wide range of client needs.

Whether you’re buying, selling, investing, or seeking property management solutions, Cara’s expertise ensures a smooth and successful experience. Her unique combination of Compass’s powerful real estate platform and Alpine’s proven property management systems creates an unmatched resource for Kansas City property owners.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Cara Painter? Cara Painter is a Kansas City Realtor® with Compass and co owner of Alpine Property Management. With over a decade of experience, she specializes in buyer/seller representation, investment properties, property management, and distressed asset transactions.

What brokerage does Cara Painter work with? Cara is a Realtor® with Compass, one of the largest independent real estate brokerages in the United States. Her Compass profile is at www.compass.com/agents/cara-painter/.

How do I contact Cara Painter? You can reach Cara directly at 816-694-0160 or email cara.painter@compass.com. For property management inquiries, contact Alpine Property Management at 816-343-4520.

Does Cara Painter help with investment properties? Yes. Cara specializes in investment properties including multi unit buildings, distressed assets, fix and flip projects. Her property management background through Alpine gives her unique insight into what makes a rental property successful.

What is Compass Concierge? Compass Concierge is a program that helps sellers prepare their home for market with no upfront costs. Learn more at Cara’s Concierge page.

Can Cara help me buy a property and then manage it? Yes. This is one of Cara’s key strengths. She can help you identify and purchase investment properties, then transition them seamlessly into Alpine Property Management for ongoing professional management.

What areas does Cara Painter serve? Cara serves the entire Kansas City metro area including Kansas City MO, Kansas City KS, Overland Park, Leawood, Olathe, Lenexa, Shawnee, Gladstone, Liberty, and surrounding communities.

Related Resources

📞 Ready to work with Cara?

For Real Estate Sales: Call 816-694-0160 or email cara.painter@compass.com

For Property Management: Call Alpine at 816-343-4520

Spotlight on Cara Painter: The Leading Real Estate Expert in Kansas City

Posted on November 7, 2023April 1, 2025 by Marcus Painter

In the bustling world of real estate, few figures shine as brightly as Cara Painter, the leading real estate expert in Kansas City. In this article, we’ll introduce you to Cara Painter and explore how her expertise, combined with the benefits of Alpine property management, can guide you towards the path of passive income and financial freedom through your real estate investments.

Meet Cara Painter: A Real Estate Maven

Cara Painter is not your average real estate expert. With years of experience and a deep understanding of the Kansas City market, she has garnered a reputation for her exceptional knowledge and unwavering commitment to her clients’ success. Cara’s journey in real estate has been nothing short of extraordinary, and her passion for helping investors achieve their financial goals is truly inspiring.

The Power of Expertise

Cara’s expertise extends far beyond typical real estate transactions. She offers invaluable insights into market trends, property evaluation, and investment strategies. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or just starting, her guidance can make all the difference. With her by your side, you’ll have the knowledge and confidence to make informed decisions and maximize your real estate investments.

Unlocking Passive Income with Alpine Property Management

Cara Painter understands that achieving financial freedom through real estate investments requires more than just expertise; it also demands efficient property management. This is where Alpine property management comes into play. By partnering with Alpine property management, you can:

Optimize Your Portfolio: Alpine property management excels in managing properties in picturesque mountainous regions. Their expertise ensures that your investments align with your financial goals.
Tenant Satisfaction: Happy tenants lead to consistent rental income. Alpine property management specializes in tenant relations, reducing vacancies, and preserving your passive income.
Property Maintenance: Properties in Alpine regions require specialized care to maintain their value. Property managers ensure that your investments remain in top condition, protecting your assets.
Market Insights: Alpine property managers stay informed about the local market, helping you adapt your portfolio to changing conditions and maximize returns.

Achieving Financial Freedom with Cara Painter and Alpine Property Management

To embark on your journey towards financial freedom, consider the following steps:

Consult with Cara Painter: Reach out to Cara Painter for a consultation. Let her expertise guide you in creating a tailored investment strategy.
Select the Right Properties: With Cara’s guidance, choose properties that align with your investment goals, whether it’s passive income, long-term appreciation, or a combination of both.
Partner with Alpine Property Management: Select Alpine property management as your partner in managing your investments. Their specialized knowledge in Alpine regions can make a significant difference in your portfolio’s performance.
Monitor and Adapt: Stay involved in your investments and be open to adapting your strategy as needed. With Cara Painter and Alpine property management, you have a team dedicated to your success.

In conclusion, Cara Painter’s expertise, coupled with Alpine property management, is a powerful combination for achieving passive income and financial freedom through real estate investments. With the right guidance and property management partner, you can unlock the full potential of your real estate portfolio. So, connect with Cara Painter and let her lead you on the path to financial success.

Contact Cara Today!!

Meet Cara Painter: The Realtor in Kansas City Who Does It All

Posted on March 18, 2023December 17, 2025 by Marcus Painter

Quick Answer

If you’re looking for a Kansas City realtor who understands both homebuyers and real estate investors, Cara Painter with Compass offers a rare combination of expertise. With over a decade of experience in sales, property management, and investment planning, Cara helps clients build long-term wealth through thoughtful real estate decisions. She specializes in buyer representation, listing services, investment properties, and property management making her uniquely qualified to help investors find and acquire rental properties in the Kansas City market.

Introduction: Why Investors Need a Different Kind of Realtor

Most realtors focus on helping people buy homes to live in. That’s valuable work, but investors have different needs. You’re not just looking for a nice kitchen you’re analyzing cash flow, evaluating rental potential, considering management requirements, and thinking about long-term appreciation.

Cara Painter is a trusted presence in Kansas City real estate who understands both sides. Her background in property management and investment planning means she evaluates properties the way an investor does, not just the way a homebuyer does.

Whether you’re buying your first rental property or expanding an existing portfolio, having a realtor who speaks your language makes a significant difference in the deals you find and the returns you achieve.

What Makes Cara Painter Different From Other Kansas City Realtors?

Deep Investment Property Experience

Cara doesn’t just sell houses, she understands rental properties. Her specialties include buyer representation, listing services, investment properties, property management, and working with diverse clients through her At Home with Diversity® (AHWD) certification.

This means when you’re looking at a potential rental, Cara can help you evaluate realistic rental income based on the Kansas City market, identify properties with strong investment potential, understand what improvements will increase rental value, and connect you with property management resources for ongoing support.

Calm, Clear Communication Style

Real estate transactions involve stress, deadlines, and complex decisions. Cara is known for her steady communication, calm problem-solving, and a service style that feels warm yet professional. Clients value her market insight and the way she makes each step feel clear, supported, and aligned with their goals.

This matters especially for out of state investors who need a local expert they can trust to represent their interests.

Full-Service Capabilities

Beyond buying and selling, Cara offers notary services and has deep connections in the Kansas City real estate community. She can help coordinate title services, connect you with lenders who understand investment properties, and ensure smooth closings.

How Does Working With an Investor-Focused Realtor Benefit You?

Better Property Selection

A realtor who understands investment metrics can filter opportunities before you waste time on properties that won’t perform. Instead of showing you every listing in your price range, Cara focuses on properties with genuine rental potential.

Realistic Income Projections

Many realtors inflate rental estimates to make deals look better. A realtor with property management experience knows actual market rents and can give you honest projections based on real data.

Smoother Transition to Management

When you purchase a rental property, the work is just beginning. Having a realtor connected to Alpine Property Management means your property can transition seamlessly from purchase to rent ready to occupied without you coordinating between disconnected service providers.

Long Term Relationship

Investors typically buy multiple properties over time. Building a relationship with a realtor who understands your investment strategy means better opportunities as they arise and someone who knows your criteria without starting from scratch each time.

What Services Does Cara Painter Offer?

Based on her Compass profile, Cara’s specialties include:

Buyer’s Agent: Representing buyers in residential purchases
Listing Agent: Marketing and selling properties
Investment Properties: Helping investors identify and acquire rentals
Property Management: Understanding the operational side of rentals
Notary Services: Facilitating document signing and closings
At Home with Diversity® (AHWD): Certified to serve diverse client needs

This combination is rare. Most realtors specialize in either residential sales or investment properties not both. Cara’s breadth of experience means she can serve clients at every stage of their real estate journey.

How Do Cara Painter and Alpine Property Management Work Together?

Cara Painter and Marcus Painter co-founded Alpine Property Management in 2013. This partnership creates a seamless experience for investors:

When You’re Buying: Cara helps you find and acquire investment properties with strong rental potential, realistic income projections, and manageable maintenance requirements.

When You’re Renting: Alpine Property Management handles tenant placement, rent collection, maintenance coordination, and ongoing property oversight delivering 96% occupancy rates, 98% rent collection, and 14 day average vacancy periods.

When You’re Selling: If you decide to sell a property, Cara can list it while Alpine coordinates with existing tenants, manages showings, and ensures the transition doesn’t disrupt your rental income until closing.

This integrated approach eliminates the gaps that occur when your realtor, property manager, and other service providers don’t communicate with each other.

What Areas Does Cara Painter Serve?

Cara serves the entire Kansas City metropolitan area, including:

Missouri: Kansas City MO, Gladstone, Liberty, North Kansas City, Parkville

Kansas: Overland Park, Leawood, Olathe, Lenexa, Shawnee, Kansas City KS

Her local market knowledge spans diverse neighborhoods with different price points, tenant demographics, and investment characteristics.

How Do I Contact Cara Painter?

Cara Painter, Realtor® | Compass

Mobile: 816-694-0160
Office: 816-280-2773
Email: cara.painter@compass.com
Compass Profile: www.compass.com/agents/cara-painter/
Compass Concierge: www.compass.com/concierge/cara-painter

For property management inquiries, contact Alpine Property Management at 816-343-4520.

Conclusion: The Right Realtor Makes Investment Success Easier

Finding a Kansas City realtor who truly understands investment properties isn’t easy. Most agents focus on owner-occupied homes and don’t speak the language of cash flow, cap rates, and rental potential.

Cara Painter brings over a decade of experience in sales, property management, and investment planning to every transaction. Her calm communication style, market expertise, and connection to Alpine Property Management create a complete ecosystem for Kansas City real estate investors.

Whether you’re buying your first rental or your tenth, having the right team makes all the difference.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Cara Painter specialize in investment properties? Yes. Cara’s background includes property management and investment planning, making her uniquely qualified to help investors evaluate rental potential, project realistic income, and identify properties that align with their investment goals.

What areas does Cara Painter cover? Cara serves the entire Kansas City metro area including Kansas City MO, Kansas City KS, Gladstone, Liberty, Overland Park, Leawood, Olathe, Lenexa, Shawnee, and surrounding communities.

How is Cara Painter connected to Alpine Property Management? Cara Painter co founded Alpine Property Management with Marcus Painter in 2013. This partnership allows investors to work with a realtor and property manager who communicate seamlessly and share the same commitment to client success.

Can Cara help me find properties that will cash flow? Yes. Unlike realtors who focus only on purchase price and aesthetics, Cara evaluates properties based on rental potential, market rents, and investment returns helping you make data-driven acquisition decisions.

Does Cara work with out-of-state investors? Absolutely. Many of Cara’s clients are out of state investors who need local expertise they can trust. Her clear communication style and connection to Alpine’s management services make remote investing practical and profitable.

What is Compass Concierge? Compass Concierge is a program that helps sellers prepare their homes for market. Compass fronts the cost of home improvements, and sellers pay at closing. Visit Cara’s Concierge page for details.

How do I schedule a consultation with Cara? Contact Cara directly at 816-694-0160 or cara.painter@compass.com, or visit her Compass profile to get started.

Related Resources

📞 Ready to find your next investment property?
Contact Cara Painter at 816-694-0160 or cara.painter@compass.com

For property management, call Alpine at 816-343-4520