Wednesday, January 30, 2019

5 Winter Real Estate Buying Benefits

It is a common misconception that Winter is the “slow” time at the Lake of the Ozarks. While it does slow down for many businesses, because tourism is not as high October through April - that does not apply to real estate! We are finding ourselves busier than ever, as homeowners are ready to buy their vacation home at the Lake of the Ozarks. Here are a few benefits to buying real estate in the Winter.


Benefit #1: Fewer Competing Offers

While it’s true that we still have plenty of buyers looking for homes and mortgages at the Lake of the Ozarks during the Winter, you may find that there is less competition. Instead of having a bidding war with several other buyers, you may only be competing against one other person if any at all. Winter is a great time to buy a home, and if you have been thinking about buying a vacation home at the Lake of the Ozarks, now is the time to do it!

Benefit #2: Motivated Sellers

Many are still under the impression that Spring and Summer are the best times to buy and sell homes at the Lake of the Ozarks. Because of this, you may find that a seller is motivated to get their home off of the market if they are selling in the Winter. This could mean that a seller is also more comfortable with negotiating if there are not as many people trying to get the property.

Benefit #3: Expired Listings Available

The Winter months are when the expired listings market is at its largest. There is generally a great selection at this time of year. If you have been looking for a vacation home at the Lake of the Ozarks, start now, and you should not have any trouble getting it ready by Summer!

Benefit #4: Great Time for “Subject to the Sale”

Depending on the listing, you may want to make a “subject to the sale” offer, and Winter months are generally when they get accepted the most, even with some movement on the price. Some homeowners at the Lake of the Ozarks may be willing to sell certain equipment with the home, and this could include yard maintenance equipment or even items as large as boats or other recreational equipment.

Benefit #5: January is the Biggest Corporate Transfer Month

More corporate relocation moves happen during January than any other time of the year. While this may not apply to vacation homes, you just never know what is going to hit the market due to these types of changes. 


Let’s Get Started!

If you are considering purchasing a home in the near future, the first step is to get a pre-approval. This will let you know how much you can afford for a home and what kind of down payment you'll be looking at. Team Lasson knows that this is a great time to buy a home, and we would love to help. Visit our website to learn more about our mortgage services at the Lake of the Ozarks, or give us a call at the number below.

For Lake area news, resources and tips on financial services, please 



Michael Lasson
Senior Loan Officer
NMLS #: 493712

4655 B Osage Beach Parkway
Osage Beach, MO 65065

Direct: (573) 746-7211





**The postings on this site are my own and do not necessarily represent First State Bank of St Charles’s positions, strategies, or opinions.

Thursday, January 24, 2019

Come See Us at the Boat Shows!

There are several Missouri boat shows planned throughout the year, and Team Lasson is going to be there! Whether you’re hunting for the perfect watercraft to take out for your next vacation, or thinking about buying a vacation home at the Lake of the Ozarks, we would love to see you at one of these shows! We love the Lake of the Ozarks, so anything Lake related to this area is our conversation of choice. Here are a few details about the upcoming boat shows that we’ll be attending - we would love to see you!

Overland Park Boat Show

This is the PREMIER show for boating enthusiasts all over the Midwest. The perfect time to take a look at what crafts will be hitting the water in 2019, from cruisers to runabouts and performance boats, tritons, ski boats and more. Not to mention, you’ll find everything from docks, lifts and all boating accessories happening at this show. It’s THIS WEEKEND, so if you’ve been thinking about going, now is the time to get your plans set in stone. This is KC’s largest boat show, and we are honored to join them and promote the wonderful Lake of the Ozarks lifestyle.

Hours:
Thursday, January 24th, 3 pm to 9 pm
Friday, January 25th, noon to 10 pm
Saturday, January 26th, 10 am to 9 pm
Sunday, January 27th, 10 am to 5 pm

Admission:
$9 for adults
$5 for kids 6-12
Children 5 & under free

Where:
Overland Park Convention Center
6000 College Blvd,
Overland Park, KS 66211

St. Charles Boat Show

The Lake of the Ozarks Marine Dealers Association is proud to welcome you to the St. Charles Boat Show. This event is the premiere show for boating enthusiasts in the St. Louis area. This event is made up of over 40 Lake of the Ozarks area marine dealers who represent all of the top lines of boats, marine accessories, docks, and personal watercraft. You will also find many other vendors representing the Lake of the Ozarks as well, like yours truly - Team Lasson!

Hours:
Thursday, March 7th, 3 pm to 9 pm
Friday, March 8th, noon to 10 pm
Saturday, March 9th, 10 am to 9 pm
Sunday, March 10th, 10 am to 5 pm

Admission:
$9 for adults
$5 for kids 6-12
Children 5 & under free

$1 of each paid adult admission is donated to Kids’ Harbor Child Advocacy Center.

Where:
St. Charles Convention Center
1 Convention Center Plz
St. Charles, MO 63303

LOMDA Spring In-Water Boat Show

This is YOUR chance to come out and see a variety of boats. This is a great kick-off to the summer season for the Lake of the Ozarks, as boaters will be getting their watercraft and are ready to hit the water. There will be all kinds of watercraft here, from new cruisers, performance crafts, runabouts, and personal watercraft.

When:
Friday, April 12th, 1 pm to 7 pm
Saturday, April 13th, 10 am to 7 pm
Sunday, April 14th, 10 am to 4 pm

Where:
Dog Days Bar & Grill
1232 Jefferies Rd
Osage Beach, MO 65065

LOMDA Fall In-Water Boat Show

The Lake of the Ozarks Marine Dealers Association Fall In-Water boat show and clearance sale is a highlight at the Lake of the Ozarks. The event is hosted by Captain Ron’s and there will be over 100 boats including new cruisers, performance boats, runabouts, and personal watercraft. There will also be a good selection of quietly pre-owned boats as well. Mark your calendars!

When:
September 20th - September 22nd, 2019

Where:
Captain Ron’s Bar & Grill
80 Aloha Ln
Sunrise Beach, MO 65037

Loving & Living at the Lake of the Ozarks

The Lake area is truly a wonderful place. If you’ve been thinking about buying a home at the Lake of the Ozarks, NOW is a great time to buy and Team Lasson would love to help. Visit our website to learn more about our mortgage services at the Lake of the Ozarks. If you’re going to be attending any of the upcoming boat shows in Missouri - we’ll be there! Stop by our booth to talk with us about your plans - we’d love to connect with you. See you at the show!

For Lake area news, resources and tips on financial services, please 



Michael Lasson
Senior Loan Officer
NMLS #: 493712

4655 B Osage Beach Parkway
Osage Beach, MO 65065

Direct: (573) 746-7211







**The postings on this site are my own and do not necessarily represent First State Bank of St Charles’s positions, strategies, or opinions.

Wednesday, January 16, 2019

Interesting Things to Know About Mortgages

Mortgages are one of the best and easiest ways to get a home. With funds for a down payment, it can be easier than ever to apply and get approved. This can be great news for second home buyers looking to purchase a vacation home at the Lake of the Ozarks, as well as for first-time homebuyers looking to settle down at the Lake of the Ozarks. As you start making plans and considering your next steps for buying a Mid-Missouri home, keep these interesting facts in your back pocket.


The Lowest Mortgage Rate - It was LOW!

In late 2012, the average interest rates for a 30-year fixed, rate mortgage hit 3.31%. The rates for 15-year mortgages were below 3%.

The Highest Mortgage Rate - It Was HIGH!

In late 1981, the average interest rate for a 30-year fixed-rate loan hit 18.45%! If you are not sure how this would affect your mortgage, think about it this way. If you have a $200,000 30-year fixed-rate mortgage (for a $250,000 home), a 3.31% interest rate would be about $877 a month. An interest rate of 18.45% would take the monthly payment to $3,088 - go ahead and pick your jaw up off of the floor.

Paying Additional Funds Each Month Can Shave Years Off of Your Loan

It’s not rocket science, making extra payments can help build equity and reduce your debt faster, but do you know the real effect that it can have? By taking your principal and interest payment for the month and dividing it by 12 and adding that amount to your monthly payment as additional principal each month, you can reduce your 30 year mortgage by more than 11 years.

What Was the Most Expensive Home Ever Sold?

Currently, the record goes to 521 Round Hill Road in luxurious Greenwich Connecticut. The property features 8 bedrooms, 8 full baths, 4 half baths, and 17,603 square feet on 40.26 acres. it sold for $49,895,000 - just shy of $50 million! If the undisclosed buyer took out a mortgage for that home, 20% down would be around $10 million, and their estimated monthly mortgage with taxes and insurance would be around $243,930!

Automate Your Monthly Payment

Did you know that you can automate your monthly mortgage payment? Set up automatic money transfers from your bank account or paycheck to go directly to your mortgage servicer. This helps eliminate the risk forgetting to pay a bill.

A Good Credit Score Can Help

Your credit score is a very important part of the mortgage puzzle. It’s always a good idea to keep an eye on your credit score.

Know What Your Loan’s APR Rate Is

Compare your annual percentage rates (APRs) when you are looking for your Lake of the Ozarks mortgage. While it’s easy to focus on the interest rate that you’ll be getting, an easily forgotten aspect is the closing costs. The APR reflects the true cost of your loan.


Your Lake of the Ozarks Mortgage

Now is a GREAT time to buy a home at the Lake of the Ozarks, and Team Lasson would be honored to help. From buying a vacation home at the Lake of the Ozarks to buying your first home, we are here to assist. Visit our website to learn more about our mortgages at the Lake of the Ozarks, or give us a call at the number below - we look forward to helping you get your home.


For Lake area news, resources and tips on financial services, please 



Michael Lasson
Senior Loan Officer
NMLS #: 493712

4655 B Osage Beach Parkway
Osage Beach, MO 65065

Direct: (573) 746-7211



**The postings on this site are my own and do not necessarily represent First State Bank of St Charles’s positions, strategies, or opinions.

Thursday, January 10, 2019

Vacation Home Locations at the Lake of the Ozarks

When you are buying your vacation home at the Lake of the Ozarks, location is key. The Lake covers over 84 square miles, and different parts of the lake offer different advantages. When you prepare to buy your Missouri Lake home, it’s important to know where the hot spots are for vacation homes. Team Lasson is going to introduce you to some of the best locations where owning a vacation home at the Lake of the Ozarks can put you in the lap of luxury


Porto Cima

The vision behind Porto Cima was to create the finest golf and boat community in the Midwest, with a subtle Mediterranean theme. Owning a home in Porto Cima can fulfill your greatest desires when you’re looking for a lifestyle filled with beauty and adventure. There are many special privileges available when you own a home in Porto Cima, which includes access to the best golf courses in the area. Other amenities in Porto Cima include the:


  • Golf Shop
  • Restaurant
  • Member dining and the 19th Hole Lounge
  • Exercise facilities
  • Outdoor dining overlooking Hole #18 and the Lake of the Ozarks
  • Banquet facility
  • Private events facility
  • Ladies and men’s locker rooms, each featuring its own fitness area


The Village of the Four Seasons

The Village of Four Seasons is a wonderful place to own a home at the Lake of the Ozarks - whether as a primary or vacation residence. There are numerous properties that boast beautiful views, lake access, and exclusive amenities. If you’re interested in moving to the Village of Four Seasons Missouri, Team Lasson would be honored to assist you in getting pre-approved. This community offers excellent amenities, such as:


  • Pools
  • Playgrounds
  • Fitness Center
  • Tennis Courts
  • Interior Lakes
  • Community Center
  • Campground
  • Boat Storage
  • Boat Ramps
  • Basketball
  • Bocce Ball


Old Kinderhook

Old Kinderhook is located in Camdenton, MO and boasts of luxury living with all of the amenities. There are many different types of homes, from cottages to patio homes, and lakefront condominiums to estate homes. Wonder what is available at Old Kinderhook? Take a look at the list below:


  • Golf
  • Spa
  • Boating 
  • Outdoor Ice Skating Rink
  • The Sand, and more


Villages at Shawnee Bend

The Villages at Shawnee Bend is one of the Lake of the Ozarks premier luxury home development areas. They are situated on the southern shores of Shawnee Bend and provide the perfect combination of privacy and seclusion - while still providing easy access to all of the activities of the Lake area. Here are a few wonderful amenities that they offer:


  • Large, naturally wooded homesite choices
  • Ten miles of unspoiled shoreline
  • Championship tennis courts
  • Community pool & clubhouse
  • Community areas and natural habitat land reserves
  • Park & playground areas
  • Community marina


Owning Real Estate at the Lake of the Ozarks

If you’ve been thinking about purchasing a home at the Lake of the Ozarks, now is the time to get started! Team Lasson would love to help you make secure your mortgage at the Lake of the Ozarks and get into your dream home. Visit our website at the link below to learn more about our services, or give us a call! We would be glad to assist you in purchasing a home in 2019!

For Lake area news, resources and tips on financial services, please 



Michael Lasson
Senior Loan Officer
NMLS #: 493712

4655 B Osage Beach Parkway
Osage Beach, MO 65065

Direct: (573) 746-7211



**The postings on this site are my own and do not necessarily represent First State Bank of St Charles’s positions, strategies, or opinions.

Thursday, January 3, 2019

What To Know Buying Real Estate in the Winter

While the Lake area slows down a bit in the Winter, it doesn’t stop altogether! There are still many people who live here full-time, keeping the area thriving and moving forward. While buying a vacation home at the Lake of the Ozarks may not be top of mind during the colder months, there are actually some significant advantages to buying a lake home during Winter. Here are a few things that Team Lasson thinks you should remember while preparing to get your Lake of the Ozarks mortgage.


It’s Your Market

The offseason in our area can be a great time to buy your dream vacation home. The dedicated house-hunters may not be out looking for real estate and it could be a great time to grab a great deal. Sometimes in the off-season, you’ll find that prices are typically lower as well, and even a small difference in price can mean big savings for you in the long run.

Close the Deal!

When you aren’t competing with more buyers, you have a higher chance of getting the deal closed. During those busy selling months, it can be harder to find your home because 10 other buyers may have found the same one. Bidding wars are no fun, but the good news is that homes listed in the Winter tend to sell for less, and have fewer people competing for them.


Motivated Sellers

There are many reasons that a person could be selling their home in the Winter. Perhaps they have personal circumstances that are forcing them to move out or maybe their home is leftover from summer. No matter what the reason, Winter sellers are typically more motivated to sell as the real estate activity slows down. You will have more opportunity to negotiate the purchase price, terms of the sale, and any items to be included with the purchase.

Now is the Time to Buy!

Now is a GREAT time to buy Lake of the Ozarks real estate, and our team would love to help you finance your new place. Whether you need to finance a second home at the Lake of the Ozarks, or a primary residence, our mortgage team is ready to assist. 2019 could be the year that you find your dream vacation home at the Lake of the Ozarks, and Team Lasson wants to be there to support your mortgage needs. Give us a call at 573-746-7211 today!

For Lake area news, resources and tips on financial services, please 



Michael Lasson
Senior Loan Officer
NMLS #: 493712

4655 B Osage Beach Parkway
Osage Beach, MO 65065

Direct: (573) 746-7211



**The postings on this site are my own and do not necessarily represent First State Bank of St Charles’s positions, strategies, or opinions.