New Year’s Eve Happenings around the Lake

As 2025 draws to a close, Team Lasson would like to wish everyone a Happy New. Whether you're out celebrating with friends or enjoying a quiet evening at home, we hope your celebrations are filled with joy. Who knows... maybe we’ll run into you at some of the exciting activities listed below:

 

Dinner at The Lodge of Four Seasons

Where:  315 Four Seasons Dr, Lake Ozark, MO

* All-inclusive one-night accommodations, dinner buffet at HK’s with live music (5-9 p.m.), open bar during dinner

* After-party at Thirst! with party favors and midnight champagne toast

* New Year’s Day breakfast buffet at HK’s

Non-hotel guests: $199+ per couple

See the menu and get access to the party here. 

 

Dinner at Pebble Bay Club

Where:  100 Pebble Bay Club Dr, Camdenton, MO 65020

When:  8:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.

* $69 per person, 3-course dinner with steak or lobster entree

* Champagne toast, music by Drew Stevens

Reservations: info@pebblebayclub.com or 816-679-1828

 

New Year’s Eve Party at Camden on the Lake

Where:  2359 Bittersweet Rd, Lake Ozark, MO

* A Night To Remember – $499/couple: Four-course dinner for two, one-night stay, access to NYE Bash with Five Turn Knot, breakfast for two.

* Romantic Dinner with View – $396/couple: Four-course dinner for two, one-night stay.

* Cheers to a New Year – $276/couple: One-night stay, access to NYE Bash with Five Turn Knot.

* Party with Five Turn Knot – $30/person: Ticket only.

DJ Todd will also be there. Special room rates start at $216. Call 573-365-5620 to reserve. View more info here. 

  

New Year’s Eve Party at Margaritaville Lake Resort

Where:  494 Tan Tar A Dr, Osage Beach, MO

$499+ package for:

* One-night accommodation + Paradise Ballroom Celebration for two adults

* Open bar from 7 p.m. to 1 a.m., dinner buffet, midnight champagne toast

* Live music by Butch Wax and the Hollywoods & The Cherry Pistols with an 80’s theme

Book your stay here.

 

New Year’s Eve Party at The Encore Lakeside Grill & Sky Bay

Where:  3076 Bagnell Dam Blvd, Lake Ozark, MO

* Live music by SoulRoot and Gracia

* $80 per person plus tax and 22% gratuity. Service starts at 5 p.m.

* Includes party favors and a Champagne toast at midnight.

See the menu and make reservations: 573-693-9973 or online. 

 

Dinner at Tavern Trattoria

Where:  630 N Main, Laurie, MO

* $100/person, buffet with glass of house wine, live music by Melani Biggers 7:30-10:30 p.m.

* Seven seating times available

Must make reservations.

 

Dinner at Riverbird Winery

Where:  442 Riverbird Ln, Camdenton, MO

* Early toast with starters, main course, dessert, and libations

* Live music by Phillip Twitchell

Call 573-286-6747 for reservations. See the menu. 

Team Lasson is here to assist with all of your home buying needs!  If you’re considering taking the leap into home ownership in the near future, we’re here to help.  Contact us today to explore which loan program aligns best with your financial goals. 

The first step in preparing for your big purchase is to get pre-approved for a mortgage at Lake of the Ozarks.  Visit www.yourlakeloan.com or call us at (573) 216-7258 to get started today!

Michael Lasson

Senior Mortgage Banker

NMLS #:  493712

Flat Branch Home Loans – Team Lasson

2882 Bagnell Dam Blvd

Lake Ozark, MO 65049

Cell:  (573) 216-7258

Email:  teamlasson@fbhl.com

Website:  www.yourlakeloan.com 

**The postings on this site are my own and do not necessarily represent Flat Branch Home Loans positions, strategies, or opinions.

Flat Branch Home Loans NMLS 224149. A Division of Flat Branch Mortgage Inc.

For more licensing information, visit NMLSConsumerAccess.org

Renting vs. Owning: Which Fits Your Goals?

Renting and owning both offer unique benefits, and the right choice ultimately comes down to your goals, budget, and long-term plans.

At Team Lasson - Flat Branch Home Loans, we want our borrowers to be informed and empowered to make decisions that best fit their long-term goals. Wondering if you should rent or own? Here’s information that can help you make your decision.

The Advantages of Owning a Home

For many, homeownership represents stability and the freedom to grow into a space that truly feels like your own. If you’re considering purchasing a home, here are a few reasons it may fit your needs.

Build Long-Term Equity

Every mortgage payment helps you build ownership in your home. Over time, that equity can become a powerful financial asset, whether you use it for future goals, renovations, or simply to strengthen your financial position.

Predictable Monthly Payments

With a fixed-rate mortgage, your principal and interest remain the same month after month.

Own the Space

Paint the walls. Update the kitchen. Add a garage, bringing convenience and save years of life on your car. Plant a garden! When you own your home, you can personalize it to fit your lifestyle.

The Advantage of Renting

For others, renting may make more sense. Flexibility and lower upfront costs are at the top of your priority list. If you’re considering renting, here’s why it could be a smart move:

Minimal Maintenance Responsibilities

When something breaks, your landlord or management company are responsible for fixing it. Renting removes the financial and time commitments that come with home repairs.

Flexibility for Your Next Move

If you’re unsure how long you’ll be in your current area due to work, school, or family changes, renting gives you the freedom of a short-term commitment.

Choosing the Path That Supports Your Future

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when deciding between renting and owning. Both choices can be great options depending on where you are in life. Reviewing your goals, timeline, and financial comfort level can help point you in the direction that best supports your next move.

If you’re exploring homeownership and want to understand what’s possible for you, we’re always here to help walk through your options.

Team Lasson is here to assist with all of your home buying needs!  If you’re considering taking the leap into home ownership in the near future, we’re here to help.  Contact us today to explore which loan program aligns best with your financial goals. 

The first step in preparing for your big purchase is to get pre-approved for a mortgage at Lake of the Ozarks.  Visit www.yourlakeloan.com or call us at (573) 216-7258 to get started today!

Michael Lasson

Senior Mortgage Banker

NMLS #:  493712

Flat Branch Home Loans – Team Lasson

2882 Bagnell Dam Blvd

Lake Ozark, MO 65049

Cell:  (573) 216-7258

Email:  teamlasson@fbhl.com

Website:  www.yourlakeloan.com 

**The postings on this site are my own and do not necessarily represent Flat Branch Home Loans positions, strategies, or opinions.

Flat Branch Home Loans NMLS 224149. A Division of Flat Branch Mortgage Inc.

For more licensing information, visit NMLSConsumerAccess.org

Psychological Space Design — Creating Environments That Enhance Emotional Well-Being

You've probably noticed that clutter stresses you out or that natural light makes you feel more alive, but the space you live in influences you on a much deeper level. You can feel it the moment you walk in the door. Some spaces seem to breathe with you, while others make you want to turn around and run. It's not your imagination. The emerging field of psychological space design is exploring how design choices such as light, color, and layout affect our emotions. Here's how to use this research to create a home that supports your mood, focus, and overall well-being.

Match colors to your intended mood: Soft blues and greens lend a calming aesthetic to bedrooms and bathrooms. Warm yellows infuse energy into kitchens and living rooms. And an earth-toned office can help you feel grounded when work is a little chaotic. Instead of choosing whatever color happens to be trending online, think about how each shade makes you feel before you pull out the paint cans. Your nervous system will thank you.

Focus on creating flow: When furniture blocks movement and surfaces feel crowded, your mind subtly mirrors it as clutter. Creating a clear pathway through each room does more than just prevent you from stubbing your toe. It also allows your thoughts to flow more freely. Pay attention to how you move through your home. Rearranging a few pieces might change the layout and your headspace.

Create zones: Designate areas for focus, relaxation, and creativity. Tucking a cozy reading chair near a window could signal rest, while a sunlit corner with a sturdy table might spark productivity. Visual cues such as rugs, lighting, or texture can divide spaces up, too. It's really less about square footage and more about intention.

Balance minimalism with sentimentalism: Clean lines and clear surfaces have a certain appeal, especially if you want to make sure everything is in its place. But if a room feels too bare, it can start to seem cold. On the other hand, overdecorating can overstimulate your senses. The sweet spot is somewhere in between. You need enough order to breathe and enough personality to feel alive, so keep things that make you smile or tell part of your story.

Remember, your home should be a reflection of who you are. It doesn't have to be picture perfect; it just has to work with you. Incorporating these simple design tips can help you create a living space that makes you feel good every day.

Sources: Asid.org, Kierstinsmythdesign.com, Marymount.edu, Hphome.ca

Team Lasson is here to assist with all of your home buying needs!  If you’re considering taking the leap into home ownership in the near future, we’re here to help.  Contact us today to explore which loan program aligns best with your financial goals. 

The first step in preparing for your big purchase is to get pre-approved for a mortgage at Lake of the Ozarks.  Visit www.yourlakeloan.com or call us at (573) 216-7258 to get started today!

Michael Lasson

Senior Mortgage Banker

NMLS #:  493712

Flat Branch Home Loans – Team Lasson

2882 Bagnell Dam Blvd

Lake Ozark, MO 65049

Cell:  (573) 216-7258

Email:  teamlasson@fbhl.com

Website:  www.yourlakeloan.com

 

**The postings on this site are my own and do not necessarily represent Flat Branch Home Loans positions, strategies, or opinions.

Flat Branch Home Loans NMLS 224149. A Division of Flat Branch Mortgage Inc.

For more licensing information, visit NMLSConsumerAccess.org

Holiday Lights at Lake of the Ozarks - 2025

It’s almost time for the family gatherings and celebrations to commence!  Once you have finished your shopping, wrapping and baking, it’s finally time to enjoy the holiday with your family and friends.  Christmas Lights are Team Lasson’s favorite during this time of the year and below are several displays that are worth checking out:

 

CHRISTMAS LIGHT DISPLAYS

Drive through holiday light parks are a popular tradition for many. The Lake of the Ozarks Area is blessed with some amazing light displays. Check out when & where you can catch a display this Holiday season:

 

Enchanted Village of Lights

Now through January 1, 2026

Laurie Fairgrounds

269 Fairgrounds Rd

Laurie, MO

Hours of Operation:

Nightly 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm (until 10:00 pm on weekends)

 

Versailles Unity of Lights

Now through January 1, 2026

Versailles City Park

Jct Hwy 5 and 52

Versailles, MO

Hours of Operation:

Nightly dusk to midnight

 

St. Patrick's Festival of Lights

Now through January 4, 2026

Shrine of St. Patrick / Mother’s Shrine

176 Marian Dr

Laurie, MO

Hours of Operation:

Nightly 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm

 

Celebration Cruises Christmas on the Lake Light Tours

December 11-13, 18-20, 26-27

Celebration Cruises

Bagnell Dam Blvd

Lake Ozark, MO

Check online for tickets and times

Team Lasson is wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas!  If you've been dreaming of making this area your primary home, second home or buying an investment property, we'd love to be a part of your home purchase at the Lake of the Ozarks! Call (573) 216-7258 or visit our website at www.yourlakeloan.com for more information.

Michael Lasson

Senior Mortgage Banker

NMLS #:  493712

Flat Branch Home Loans – Team Lasson

2882 Bagnell Dam Blvd

Lake Ozark, MO 65049

Cell:  (573) 216-7258

Email:  teamlasson@fbhl.com

Website:  www.yourlakeloan.com

 

**The postings on this site are my own and do not necessarily represent Flat Branch Home Loans positions, strategies, or opinions.

Flat Branch Home Loans NMLS 224149. A Division of Flat Branch Mortgage Inc.

Renovation Loans: Turning a House with Potential into Your Dream Home

Dreaming of a home upgrade? Sometimes, the perfect house isn’t the one that’s move-in ready — it’s the one with the potential to become your dream home after a few updates. That’s where a renovation loan can make all the difference.

A renovation loan lets you roll the cost of both purchasing and upgrading a home into one single loan. Instead of juggling separate financing for the purchase and the renovation, you can simplify the process and focus on transforming your new space.

When a Renovation Loan Makes the Most Sense

When you find a home with potential:

Maybe the location is perfect, the layout works for your lifestyle, but the kitchen feels dated or the bathrooms need some TLC. A renovation loan allows you to look beyond cosmetic flaws and see the bigger picture.

When you want financing based on the home’s future value:

Unlike traditional loans, renovation loans consider the after-renovation value of the property. That means your budget is based on what the home will be worth once improvements are complete — not just its current state.

When you’re planning smart with your timeline:

Renovation projects often run smoother (and sometimes at a better price) during slower contractor seasons like fall or winter. Timing your upgrades right can help you get the work done more efficiently.

The Benefits of a Renovation Loan

• One convenient payment – Combine purchase and renovation costs into a single loan.

• Increased home value – Improvements can boost equity right from the start.

• Personalization – Design the home around your needs and lifestyle.

Is a Renovation Loan Right for You?

If you’ve ever walked into a home and thought, “This would be perfect… if only it had X,” a renovation loan could be the solution. It allows buyers to see beyond what is and invest in what could be.

At Flat Branch Home Loans, we’re here to guide you through the process and help bring your vision to life.

Team Lasson is here to assist with all of your home buying needs!  If you’re considering taking the leap into home ownership in the near future, we’re here to help.  Contact us today to explore which loan program aligns best with your financial goals. 

The first step in preparing for your big purchase is to get pre-approved for a mortgage at Lake of the Ozarks.  Visit www.yourlakeloan.com or call us at (573) 216-7258 to get started today!

Michael Lasson

Senior Mortgage Banker

NMLS #:  493712

Flat Branch Home Loans – Team Lasson

2882 Bagnell Dam Blvd

Lake Ozark, MO 65049

Cell:  (573) 216-7258

Email:  teamlasson@fbhl.com

Website:  www.yourlakeloan.com 

**The postings on this site are my own and do not necessarily represent Flat Branch Home Loans positions, strategies, or opinions.

Flat Branch Home Loans NMLS 224149. A Division of Flat Branch Mortgage Inc.

Bathroom Renovations — Updates for Every Budget

If a full bathroom remodel isn't in your budget, there are still smaller updates you can make that are well worth your time and investment. Minor cosmetic changes yield an average return of $1.71 for every dollar you spend, so let's explore some ideas to help you take your old bathroom from drab to fab with minimal effort.

Refresh Your Flooring or Backsplash

One of the most eye-catching changes you can make is to update the flooring or backsplash. This is a project that varies widely in terms of price, but by choosing budget-friendly tiles, you'll be surprised how affordable transforming a small space like a bathroom can be. If you plan to sell your home in the future and want to appeal to a wider range of buyers, stick with a classic, neutral color.

Apply a Fresh Coat of Paint

Looking for a DIY project? Painting your bathroom is a great way to change its aesthetic without having to hire a contractor. Opt for neutrals colors such as beige and gray to create a clean look or choose a light blue or green for a calming atmosphere. Don't forget, you can paint more than just the walls. Consider adding a pop of color to your cabinets to give them a second life.

Replace Your Mirror

It sounds simple, but swapping out your old mirror for a more modern design can elevate your entire bathroom. Depending on the style you select, it can even make the space feel bigger. Choose an oversized mirror with LED backlighting to add a luxurious glow that brightens up the entire space. To really maximize your investment, opt for a mirror with built-in storage.

Updating your bathroom doesn't have to be a huge undertaking. By chipping away at small projects like these, you'll be well on your way to creating the home of your dreams — all while boosting your property value.

Sources: Daltile.com, Honey-doers.com, Zillow.com

Team Lasson is here to assist with all of your home buying needs!  If you’re considering taking the leap into home ownership in the near future, we’re here to help.  Contact us today to explore which loan program aligns best with your financial goals. 

The first step in preparing for your big purchase is to get pre-approved for a mortgage at Lake of the Ozarks.  Visit www.yourlakeloan.com or call us at (573) 216-7258 to get started today!

Michael Lasson

Senior Mortgage Banker

NMLS #:  493712

Flat Branch Home Loans – Team Lasson

2882 Bagnell Dam Blvd

Lake Ozark, MO 65049

Cell:  (573) 216-7258

Email:  teamlasson@fbhl.com

Website:  www.yourlakeloan.com 

**The postings on this site are my own and do not necessarily represent Flat Branch Home Loans positions, strategies, or opinions.

Flat Branch Home Loans NMLS 224149. A Division of Flat Branch Mortgage Inc.

For more licensing information, visit NMLSConsumerAccess.org

Tips for a Smooth Mortgage Process

You’ve found your dream home—congrats! Now let’s make sure the mortgage process is just as exciting and stress-free. At Flat Branch, we pride ourselves on creating seamless transactions, but there are also steps you can take to make things move even faster and with less stress for everyone involved.

Here are our top recommendations:

Pay All Bills on Time   

Your credit score is one of the most important factors in qualifying for a home loan. Even one late payment on a credit card, loan, or utility bill can cause your score to dip at a critical time. Staying consistent with your payments ensures your credit remains stable and helps you qualify for the best loan options available.

Return All Requested Documents Quickly
Your loan officer will need various documents throughout the process, such as pay stubs, bank statements, or tax forms. The faster you provide these items, the faster we can move your loan forward. Having your paperwork ready to go and responding quickly to requests keeps everything on track and avoids unnecessary delays.

Continue Saving
Many buyers focus only on saving for the down payment, but additional costs like closing expenses, moving costs, and small home improvements can add up quickly. Continuing to save during the mortgage process ensures you’re financially prepared for every step and able to comfortably transition into your new home.

Keep Documentation to Source All Funds
Lenders are required to verify where your money is coming from. Whether it’s a bonus from work, a gift from a family member, or funds from selling an asset, keeping clear records is essential. Providing documentation for every deposit helps us confirm your funds and avoids last-minute issues.

Don’t Open or Apply for New Accounts
Opening a new credit card, loan, or even a bank account can negatively affect your credit and complicate the approval process. New accounts often trigger a credit inquiry, which can lower your score. It’s best to wait until after closing to make any changes to your financial accounts.

Don’t Use Cash or Money Orders for Earnest Money
When it comes to earnest money, transparency is key. Using cash or money orders makes it difficult to track the source of funds, which is required for your loan approval. Always involve your loan officer so we can ensure earnest money is properly deposited into an escrow account.

Don’t Change Jobs, Become Self-Employed, or Quit
Lenders must verify your income and employment to approve your loan. Changing jobs, becoming self-employed, or leaving your position during the mortgage process can cause major delays or even disqualify you. To keep things moving smoothly, plan on maintaining your current employment status until after closing.

Don’t Purchase Large Items
It can be tempting to start shopping for furniture, appliances, or even a new car before you close, but large purchases can change your debt-to-income ratio or drain the funds you’ve set aside. Hold off on major purchases until your loan has closed to protect your approval status.

Don’t Spend Money Saved for Closing or A Down Payment
While it may seem obvious, it’s worth emphasizing—do not touch the funds you’ve earmarked for closing or your down payment. These amounts are calculated and spending them elsewhere could create a shortfall that delays or prevents closing. Keeping these funds intact ensures you’re fully prepared for the big day.  

Have questions or need help navigating your loan? Reach out to Team Lasson today—we’re here to you every step of the way!

Team Lasson is here to assist with all of your home buying needs!  If you’re considering taking the leap into home ownership in the near future, we’re here to help.  Contact us today to explore which loan program aligns best with your financial goals. 

The first step in preparing for your big purchase is to get pre-approved for a mortgage at Lake of the Ozarks.  Visit www.yourlakeloan.com or call us at (573) 216-7258 to get started today!

Michael Lasson

Senior Mortgage Banker

NMLS #:  493712

Flat Branch Home Loans – Team Lasson

2882 Bagnell Dam Blvd

Lake Ozark, MO 65049

Cell:  (573) 216-7258

Email:  teamlasson@fbhl.com

Website:  www.yourlakeloan.com 

**The postings on this site are my own and do not necessarily represent Flat Branch Home Loans positions, strategies, or opinions.

Flat Branch Home Loans NMLS 224149. A Division of Flat Branch Mortgage Inc.