Thursday, August 18, 2022

BUYING IS BETTER: Here’s Why!

Buying is better than renting! Our experienced mortgage lender in Osage Beach, MO is here to showcase a few of the many reasons why buying trumps renting, even in the current real estate market. Buying a home at Lake of the Ozarks is a great way to invest in your future. If you are interested in getting out of the rental cycle, Team Lasson is here to help! 

Renting is Typically More Expensive

The point of renting out a property is to pay the mortgage plus make a little money on top of that. That means as a renter, you are paying someone else's mortgage plus some. With all things being equal, it's a cheaper monthly payment to buy vs rent. 


Budget Friendly Payments

In the short term, rental rates can change with little notice from the landlord, making it hard to budget. This can lead you to move more frequently as you find a place that is cheaper to rent. A mortgage payment is a consistent payment you can confidently budget around. 

In the long run, all mortgages have a term in which the property is paid off. If you stay in a home for the duration of the term, you own the home outright. That means you won't have a mortgage payment and one of your biggest living expenses is gone! If you're planning for the long term, investing in a home is the way to go! 


Invest in Yourself

Purchasing a home is an investment in your future. As a homeowner, you're building the equity in your home with each monthly payment you make. That means you are slowly building your personal wealth over time. 


Provide Stability

Renting often leads to moving frequently. Moving from rental to rental is costly and provides minimal stability. Stability is not only important for adults, but also vital for children. It is a key factor for success in the classroom. If you have children, it is important to provide a stable home environment for them to set them up for success!

As you can see, there are many reasons why buying a home at Lake of the Ozarks is better than renting. If you are ready to chat about your home buying options, give Team Lasson a call at (573) 746-7211 or visit our website at www.yourlakeloan.com!


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Michael Lasson
Senior Loan Officer
NMLS #: 493712

4655 B Osage Beach Parkway
Osage Beach, MO 65065






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

Wednesday, August 10, 2022

Meet Team Lasson!

Team Lasson is here for all your Lake of the Ozarks mortgage lending needs! We take great pride in providing prompt and clear communication to ensure you know the status of your loan. If you're considering buying a home or refinancing your home at Lake of the Ozarks, we would be honored to be a part of making your mortgage goals a reality! As a tribute to all the amazing efforts our team makes, we want to feature the people that make up Team Lasson! 

MEET OUR TEAM:

Michael & Michelle Lasson

Michael and Michelle Lasson are Senior Loan Officers at First State Bank Mortgage in Osage Beach, MO, in the beautiful Lake of the Ozarks.  They began their mortgage careers in 2001 with a small mortgage company and have worked together as Team Lasson since the beginning.

Prior to the mortgage industry, Michael worked for a publishing company where he sold advertising for 10 years. During that time, he established numerous relationships with local real estate agents, and still works with many of them today, helping their clients through the mortgage lending process. 

Michelle worked for a real estate attorney for two years and a title company/law firm for nine years.  With her extensive real estate and mortgage industry experience, Michelle knows how to make loan process as smooth as possible and assists their clients every step of the way.

Michael and Michelle united their families in 1999 and have six children between the two of them.  They are also fortunate to have nine wonderful grandchildren.  Michael and Michelle enjoy spending time with their family and going camping as much as possible.

Having struggled through an adverse experience buying their first home together, Michael and Michelle made it their goal to make the mortgage loan experience as simple as possible for their clients.  They focus on providing prompt communication with both clients and real estate partners to ensure everyone knows where they are in the mortgage loan process, with the goal of getting the borrowers into their new home as quickly as possible.

Michael has received numerous nominations and awards during his career, including multiple honors as: 

  • Affiliate of the Year by Bagnell Dam Association of REALTORS®
  • Best Mortgage Provider by Lake Lifestyles Magazine
  • Best Mortgage Provider by Missouri Magazine

Michael and Michelle are also active members of the following organizations:

  • Bagnell Dam Association of REALTORS®, where they each serve on multiple committees
  • Lake of the Ozarks Board of REALTORS®
  • Lake Area Chamber of Commerce, where Michael serves on the Board
  • Camdenton Area Chamber of Commerce
  • Eldon Chamber of Commerce

Toni Butler
Toni is the mortgage loan processor for Michael and Michelle Lasson. As a member of Team Lasson, she works closely with the loan officers to get their borrowers’ questions answered as quickly as possible.
She has been in the mortgage industry for about 30 years and has been a loan processor for 10 years. Toni really enjoys helping borrowers through the mortgage lending process and getting them into their new properties, it is very rewarding and gratifying for her.
Toni lives at the beautiful Lake of the Ozarks and just loves it! She spends her free time swimming, boating, gardening and visiting the gorgeous beaches in Florida. She has two grown children and one beautiful granddaughter that she simply adores!

Buying or refinancing your home at Lake of the Ozarks is a big step. We want to make sure you're informed and comfortable throughout the entire process! Experience the difference when you work with the best mortgage lender in Osage Beach, MO, and give us a call at (573) 746-7211 or visit our website at www.yourlakeloan.com!


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Michael Lasson
Senior Loan Officer
NMLS #: 493712

4655 B Osage Beach Parkway
Osage Beach, MO 65065






**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, August 4, 2022

Popular August Events at Lake of the Ozarks

August is here & that means it's time to plan out which upcoming events you want to attend! Our mortgage lender at Lake of the Ozarks knows entertainment is one of the big draws to our area. Team Lasson is excited to feature some of the most popular events that are on the calendar for August!


En Plein Air Art Festival

August 8th

Various locations around Lake of the Ozarks

The Lake of the Ozark’s (LOZ) En Plein Air Art Festival provides artists with the opportunity to expand their markets, enhance their skills, receive recognition for their creations, and to experience Lake of the Ozarks in the company of other artists; as such it is open to artists of all levels.

Art Lovers: The public is invited to observe the art unfold before their eyes each day at events hosted by local businesses and neighboring communities. Not only will you watch the art being created each day, you may purchase a painting and pick it up Saturday, August 13th.

Unique event sites will be featured each day during the festival at a variety of locations from local lodges, on the lake restaurants, wineries, historic sites, and surrounding towns. Artists will be spread out at 20 different venues around the Lake of the Ozarks.

For a list locations & more details on this event. visit: https://www.facebook.com/LakeFineArt/


Hot Summer Nights Car Show

August 12th

Bagnell Dam Strip

A Friday night in the summer isn't complete without a car show on the Strip! Enjoy this free "cruise in" for all cars, trucks, motorcycles, and other vehicles. This monthly show is held on the 2nd Friday of each month at the Bagnell Dam Strip. It's an electric environment that you won't want to miss!


Ozarks Amhitheater - Concerts

Jamey Johnson and Blackberry Smoke Concert

August 19th

The Black Crowes present: Shake Your Money Maker

August 20th

These concerts are sure to blow you away! Experience live music at one of the top entertainment spots at the Lake. There's not a bad seat in the house at this outdoor amphitheater in Camdenton, MO. Be sure to check out the shows on August 19th and 20th!


Lake of the Ozarks Shootout

August 27th - August 28th

Captain Ron's Bar & Grill

The Lake of the Ozarks Shootout, held at Captain Ron's Bar & Grill and the 33MM-34.5MM, will bring top powerboat racers and off shore racing power boats from across the country, topping 200 MPH. The largest unsanctioned boat race in the Midwest with over 100 racers and 100,000 spectators. Proceeds will benefit the Lake Area Rescue Teams, and other charitable organizations!

Photo Credit: Fun Lake

Which events are you most excited to attend? As your experienced home lender near Osage Beach, MO, we know you love visiting Lake of the Ozarks and enjoying these spectacular summer events we have around our area. If you're ready to call Lake of the Ozarks home, give us a call at (573) 746-7211 or visit our website at www.yourlakeloan.com!


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Michael Lasson
Senior Loan Officer
NMLS #: 493712

4655 B Osage Beach Parkway
Osage Beach, MO 65065






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

Tuesday, July 26, 2022

Tips to Improve Your Credit Score

Your credit score has a direct impact on your borrowing power. The amount you are approved to borrow and the rate at which you borrow are both impacted by your credit score. If you're planning to buy a home near Lake of the Ozarks in the near future, it's time to focus on improving your credit score to get the best chance at mortgage pre-approval near Osage Beach, MO. Check out a few tips you can put into practice to try to raise your score!

Make Payments On Time

On-time payments are a great way to show that you're responsible with your money management. Being able to pay your bills and loans on time can help raise your credit score and make you a more attractive borrower for a home loan. 


Avoid New Lines of Credit

A new line of credit can put a temporary ding on your credit score. If you're applying for a mortgage pre-approval, it's imperative that you avoid opening any other line of credit while you're in the purchasing process. This could void your pre-approval or cause delays at closing if your offer is accepted. 


Pay Down Credit Cards

Revolving credit, like a credit card, is beneficial to have for your overall credit score. It adds to your credit diversity and shows you can handle different types of credit. It's even better if you can keep your credit utilization under 30%. Avoid maxing out credit cards and if you are above 30% of your total credit limit, make an effort to pay that debt down. 


Transfer High Interest Debts

High interest debts can eat up the payments you're making quickly. The interest that's being charged each month can be hard to get ahead of. There are ways to consolidate high interest debts into a low interest loan, which can be beneficial for paying those debts down. You can also transfer debts to a lower interest loan in order to save on those high interest rates, putting more of your payment toward the principal. 


Correct Any Errors

If there are errors on your credit report, it's important to address those with the reporting agencies to get those negative errors off your credit history. It can take some time for these corrections to go through, it's best to get on any inconsistencies in a timely manner to help improve your credit score. 

Now that you know a few ways you can improve your credit score, you're ready to prepare for your big purchase. If you're curious what your current rate would be to buy a home at Lake of the Ozarks, give us a call at (573) 746-7211 or visit our website at www.yourlakeloan.com! We look forward to helping you with your home buying needs!


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Michael Lasson
Senior Loan Officer
NMLS #: 493712

4655 B Osage Beach Parkway
Osage Beach, MO 65065






**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, July 21, 2022

5 Reasons to Pack Your Bags and Relocate to Lake of the Ozarks

The Lake of the Ozarks is an amazing place to call home! If you're curious about our thriving community, our mortgage lender in Osage Beach, MO is excited to share about our area! We've been living the lake lifestyle for years and we can't wait to share it with you. Get ready to pack your belongings -- after reading the info below, you'll be ready to relocate to Lake of the Ozarks!

1. Endless Recreational Activities

With over 1,000 miles of shoreline, the waters at Lake of the Ozarks create a fantastic place for recreation. From boating to swimming to fishing, the possibilities are endless! Whether you like being adventurous or relaxing, the Lake provides ample chances to enjoy your favorite water activities. 


2. Growing Area

Our community is thriving! With more and more people and businesses relocating to Lake of the Ozarks, we're experiencing some amazing growth. With an increase in new and exciting businesses to frequent, the horizons of our area continue to expand. 


3. Safe Community

Our area boasts a low crime rate, compared to many other cities. We are proud of the small-town mentality we have, while our community continues to grow! 

 

4. Seasonal Environment

The seasonality of our tourist destination makes for an exciting place to live. From the exciting events all summer long to the quiet and relaxing winter months, there is a nice balance that goes hand in hand with a tourist destination. 


5. Spectacular Views

The gorgeous lake surrounded by rolling Ozark hills -- it's a recipe for perfection! We also can't talk about the natural beauty without pointing out how spectacular the sunsets are over Lake of the Ozarks. It's a view unlike any other! Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of our area

Photo Credit: Fun Lake

Starting your home search in a new area can be intimidating but Team Lasson is here to help you every step of the way! We want to help set your home search up for success with a mortgage pre-approval at Lake of the Ozarks! If you're ready to get the ball rolling on relocating, give us a call at (573) 746-7211 or visit our website at www.yourlakeloan.com!


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Michael Lasson
Senior Loan Officer
NMLS #: 493712

4655 B Osage Beach Parkway
Osage Beach, MO 65065






**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, July 14, 2022

Mortgage Market Update - July

The lending market fluctuates on a regular basis. There are many factors that impact the current rates. Our experienced mortgage lender in Osage Beach, MO keeps up with the daily changes that impact our clients. If you're thinking about purchasing a home at Lake of the Ozarks or refinancing your home in the near future, we'd love to chat about what the current rate situation can mean for you and your loan. Check out a recent update from Mortgage Market Guide to learn more about the current market conditions:

A few weeks ago, some weak economic signals sparked increasing fears of a recession. Let's walk through what happened and look ahead to the future.

"While the Present Situation Index was relatively unchanged, the Expectations Index continued its recent downward trajectory - falling to its lowest point in nearly a decade. Consumers' grimmer outlook was driven by increasing concerns about inflation, in particular rising gas and food prices. Expectations have now fallen well below a reading of 80, suggesting weaker growth in the second half of 2022 as well as growing risk of recession by year end." The Conference Board's Consumer Confidence Report.

This reading is important because if pessimism begins to negatively affect consumer spending, the chance of a recession will rise sharply as consumer spending makes up two-thirds of our economic growth.

A few weeks ago, the third and final reading of 1st Quarter GDP showed the economy shrank by 1.6%, worse than expectations of -1.5%. A recession is defined by two quarters of negative growth. The 2nd quarter is forecasted to barely grow, which means we will be in or close to a recession in the 1st half of 2022.

The silver lining about all this recession talk? It will put a limit to how high rates go. We are two weeks past the 3.49% peak in rates which ironically happened when the Fed raised the Fed Funds rate by .75%.

Bottom line: Long-term rates have stabilized but we should not expect much more improvement until inflation moderates further. With that said, if you are interested in purchasing a home, it remains a great time with rates beneath the rate of inflation.

Looking Ahead

We will receive important employment readings by way of the ADP Report and Jobs Report. The Fed wants to slow down the labor market and we have already seen layoff announcements in corporate America, so we will see if that is reflected in the coming week's figures.

We know the interest rates can seem intimidating to navigate but we've been in the industry for over 20 years and we're confident as we navigate these changes. Put our experience to work for you as you plan to buy a home at Lake of the Ozarks. If you're ready to learn what kind of rate you qualify for you, give Team Lasson a call at (573) 746-7211 or visit our website at www.yourlakeloan.com!


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Michael Lasson
Senior Loan Officer
NMLS #: 493712

4655 B Osage Beach Parkway
Osage Beach, MO 65065






**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, July 7, 2022

July Happenings at the Lake

The heat of summer is here & that means it's time to talk about some upcoming July events at Lake of the Ozarks! If you love attending local events, be sure to check out a few of the top events this month. Our Lake of the Ozarks mortgage lender knows events are one of the big draws to our area and we can't be more excited to feature them for you. Check out a few of the upcoming July events you won't want to miss!

Photo Credit: Fun Lake

HOT SUMMER NIGHTS CAR SHOW

May 13, 2022

Bagnell Dam Strip

Hours of Operation:

5 pm - 10 pm

Hot Summer Nights is a summertime staple for locals and visitors alike. This event is a free "cruise in" for all classic cars, trucks, and bikes held the 2nd Friday of each month from May - September on Bagnell Dam Strip. No registration is required and the event is free. Stop by for an electric atmosphere and to kick off the weekend right!


AQUAPALOOZA 2022

Jul 16, 2022

Captain Ron's Bar & Grill

Hours of Operation:

12:00 pm - 5:00 pm

NEW LOCATION - Captain Ron's Bar & Grill at the 34.5 mile marker

The Lake's Largest FAMILY Boating event will be held July 16th at a new location-Captain Ron's Bar & Grill. Make time to get out and enjoy a great day on the water and on land. Live music and activities will keep you having fun all day long. This year's event starts at noon and features Black Note Band, The NoBodies, Dirt Road Addiction, and Members Only.


2022 MARINEMAX MIDWEST COAST WAKESURF OPEN

Jul 16, 2022

Ha Ha Tonka State Park

Hours of Operation:

Competition begins at 9AM.

Come ride the ruins and party with us at the park! This competition is designed for all ages and skill-levels, this grassroots wake surf contest is geared towards those looking for a family friendly atmosphere. $20 registration fee for all riders, plus a $45 World Wake Association one-time event membership.  All competitors will receive a rider's jersey and be registered to win event prizes. Whether you're planning to compete or just want to watch all the action, this is the place to be!


CAR CRUISE IN & ICE CREAM SOCIAL

Jul 23, 2022

Camden County Historical Society & Museum

6:00-8:30pm

This delicious & fun event is free to attend. Cool off with an ice cream & check out the sweet rides. Ice Cream by donation and the money benefits Camden County Roach & Old Linn Creek Cemeteries. 


CHRISTMAS IN JULY 5K

Jul 23, 2022

Tri-County YMCA

It's Christmas in July! Participate in this annual 5K for a memorable run! Entry in the 5K is $35. Registration is at 6 am - Race at 7 am. Plan to get up early and get the Christmas in July event started in style!

If you want to experience some of these awesome events and more, it's time to relocate to Lake of the Ozarks! Our community would love to have you! To get started with a mortgage pre-approval at Lake of the Ozarks, give us a call at (573) 746-7211 or visit our website at www.yourlakeloan.com!


LIKE my Facebook PageFollow me on Twitter or Connect on LinkedIn



Michael Lasson
Senior Loan Officer
NMLS #: 493712

4655 B Osage Beach Parkway
Osage Beach, MO 65065






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