Rodrock Difference: A commitment to community, families

There are few names that have endured 30-plus years in residential real-estate development. And even fewer recognized by co-op agents — who can sell homes anywhere — as absolute standouts in the business, a safe haven in which to place clientele. Yet that’s exactly what’s happened with Rodrock Development.

In fact, the “Rodrock Difference,” is well known within the industry: A commitment to “building better communities” backed by more than three decades of doing business the right way.

And some agents are so impressed by the Rodrock Difference that they choose to live in Rodrock Developments. Such is the case for both Cindy Cunningham of Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate Kansas City Homes and Shannon Doser of Keller Williams Realty.

“Darol Rodrock is one of the very few developers in the city who seems to genuinely care about not only the appearance of his communities but also the property values and the quality of life he’s providing families,” said Doser, who calls Grey Oaks home. “He’s incredibly family-centered. He always follows through. His neighborhoods always look done — everything from the pools and the signage and all the added extras. There are a lot of developers who don’t follow through. But Darol is a guarantee, and that’s what I tell my clients. His communities are safe investments, because you know the neighborhood is going to maintain its property values.”

And this distinction is enough to change even the most made-up of minds. Monte Summers of ReeceNichols just closed on out-of-town buyers convinced they wanted an older home in an entirely different area.

“Instead, I took them into Forest View-The Meadows. They looked at a number of homes, both re-sale and new. They chose their home because of the location, amenities and the quality builder. They love the friendliness of their neighbors and the close proximity to the grade school. They’re thrilled with their home and are looking forward to all of the community activities throughout the year. Another bonus? Their Realtor is happy, as well.”

“Helping my clients build homes in Rodrock communities is a great experience,” agreed Gwen Plattner of ReeceNichols. “As an agent, we know that the neighborhoods hold their value over time, and the homes offer the latest designs and conveniences. Our clients know they’re getting great neighbors and will be able to enjoy the various activities offered for both individuals and families, which brings about a stronger sense of community.”

Lisa Moore of ReeceNichols said that selling a Rodrock home is “peace of mind” for an agent. “The homes are built by some of the area’s top builders and the quality shows throughout,” she said. “The communities are a pleasure to show, always landscaped beautifully with trees and plush landscaping. Whenever I sell in a Rodrock community, I can rest assured that when I get a call five years down the road, my client’s house has increased in value and remains in a desirable area. Rodrock communities are my favorite communities to sell in.”

For Rachelle Diane Moley, a Realtor specializing in new homes in Olathe with ReeceNichols, Rodrock Development solves the worry of building and streamlines the process for Realtors and buyers alike.

“I know once my clients have moved in, they will enjoy the pools, clubhouses for entertaining, play areas and entry signs that are, well, monumental,” Moley said.

Peggy Hellings of Better Homes & Gardens has been selling Rodrock Developments since the beginning. “In the long, long haul, the developer makes the difference. I have a lot of confidence in the Rodrock name and their whole team is a well-oiled machine, which makes for a very, very pleasant experience.”

Judy Johns of Keller Williams has likewise been selling in Rodrock Developments for decades and she finds the on-site agents “gracious, knowledgeable representatives of Darol’s philosophy and are among the best to work with.”

“But what truly makes Rodrock communities special is the Moms’ Council, which is such a differentiator, for out-of-towners in particular, because buyers feel like they have an immediate connection within the neighborhood, and that’s so important,” Johns continued. “And it’s important for Darol, in particular given his background as a foster child, that kids and moms have a great environment. And Darol will often buy land and immediately sell it to schools. Typically, there are schools within walking distance or a short ride from each of his communities, which enhances the neighborhood as well.”

“As a Realtor, selling in Johnson County for over 20 years, I get excited to show my buyers or to take a listing in a Rodrock community,” agreed Leslie Feeback of Better Homes & Gardens. “Darol Rodrock’s vision is to create a ‘welcoming community offering unsurpassed new home values,’ and he continues to deliver on that vision.”

One of Feeback’s favorite selling points of Rodrock Developments is also the Moms’ Council. “The Moms’ Council hosts events that bring the families and the community together. Many communities offer an active HOA, but the uniqueness of the Moms’ Council sets Rodrock communities apart. The council focuses on hosting special events from Easter egg hunts, pool opening parties, and holiday celebrations. The goal is to continually develop a bond between families and neighbors. You can ‘play where you live’ … what a great concept!”

Rodrock’s promise for better communities is truly the difference behind his continued success. As a father, former teacher, coach and homebuilder, he personally understands what makes for a successful neighborhood. And he’s committed the better part of his life to building that dream for area families.

For more information, visit Rodrock.com.

This story was originally published April 11, 2015 at 7:00 PM with the headline "Rodrock Difference: A commitment to community, families."