Creating a Home Wellness Space: Design Tips for Mental and Physical Health

Feeling overwhelmed? Creating a dedicated space at home for wellness can be a great way to manage stress and prioritize mental health. Whether it's for meditation, yoga, or unwinding with a good book, a wellness space can bring balance and tranquility into your daily life. Here are some simple design tips to create your personal retreat:

Start by decluttering: Clear out unnecessary items and use multifunctional storage solutions to keep essentials organized and out of sight. An open, airy environment provides the perfect foundation for a calming wellness space.

Incorporate natural lighting: Sunlight has a positive effect on mood and energy levels. If possible, choose a spot with natural light, such as a room with large windows. If natural light is limited, opt for soft, warm lighting that mimics daylight to create a peaceful ambiance.

Integrate greenery: Bringing plants into your space adds life and a touch of nature. Plants can improve air quality, reduce stress, and promote a sense of calm. Low-maintenance options such as snake plants or pathos can help create a refreshing atmosphere.

Prioritize comfort: Select comfortable furnishings that encourage relaxation, such as cozy chairs, soft rugs, and plenty of pillows. Ensure there's enough space for activities such as yoga or stretching. Using soft, natural materials for furniture and decor can further enhance the overall comfort of your wellness space.

Create a mindfulness corner: Set up a small corner with items that support mindfulness and meditation, such as a yoga mat, meditation cushion, or a collection of wellness books. Adding elements such as candles, incense, or essential oils can make this area even more inviting.

With a few thoughtful design choices, you can create a personal retreat that nurtures both your mental and physical well-being.

Sources: Sarahjacquelyninteriors.com, Sansainteriors.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

Winter Credit Score Health

 The winter season is a busy time. Between holiday shopping, family gatherings, and travel plans, it’s easy for financial priorities to take a back seat. However, winter is the perfect time to assess your credit health and prepare for the year ahead.

For those interested in becoming a homeowner, credit scores can impact interest rates and monthly costs associated with a loan. Team Lasson is committed to educating our borrowers on the critical part credit plays in the homebuying process. Here are a few helpful tips to keep your credit health up during the winter months.

Travel Tips:

• Monitor Your Accounts: Keeping an eye on your credit score will help promote healthier spending habits. Plus, checking your credit score often is a smart way to help avoid fraud - as a sudden change in credit score could indicate identity theft.

• Consider a Credit Freeze: If you’re not planning on opening new credit accounts, a credit freeze can add a layer of protection against identity theft. You can easily unfreeze it when you’re ready to shop for a home loan.

Post-Holiday Debt Recovery:   

• Make a Plan to Pay Off Debt: Focus on paying down holiday-related credit card balances as quickly as possible to avoid high interest charges. The snowball method (paying off the smallest balances first) or the avalanche method (targeting the highest-interest debts first) can help you stay organized and motivated.

• Avoid Making Minimum Payments: Paying only the minimum can stretch your debt into months or years, increasing the total cost of your purchases. Try to pay as much as you can each month to reduce balances faster.

• Consolidate or Transfer Debt: For those with high-interest credit cards, consolidating debt with a personal loan or taking advantage of a 0% APR balance transfer offer can lower costs. Just be mindful of transfer fees or promotional period deadlines.

• Reassess Your Budget: Review your spending habits from the past few months and identify areas to cut back. Direct any extra savings toward your credit card balances to recover faster.

Take Control of Your Credit This Winter

Maintaining strong credit health during the holiday season will set you up for success, especially if you’re considering buying a home in 2025. By staying mindful of your spending, protecting your credit, and planning for the future, you can start the new year in a strong financial position.

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

New Year’s Eve Happenings around the Lake

As 2024 draws to a close, Team Lasson would like to extend our warmest wishes for a Happy New Year and a prosperous 2025. 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 HK’s Restaurant & Bar with a DJ and After Party in the Thirst Lounge

Where:  315 Four Seasons Dr, Lake Ozark, MO

When:  4 – 10 p.m. for Dinner; 7 – 10 p.m. for the After Party

Entrees include choice of Prime Rib, Beef Medallions, Seafood Diablo, Seared Salmon and Chicken Oscar “HK Style”.

Sax Man Mike Byington will play from 7 – 10 p.m. in the Restaurant

Reservations are required – call (573) 365-8009 for more information.

 

Dinner at Pebble Bay Club

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

When:  6:00 p.m. – Midnight

There will be an amazing four course meal with your choice or steak or lobster, party favors, and a champagne toast

Music provided by Wendy & Dan from 8 – 11 p.m.

Call (573) 317-4999 for reservations

 

New Year’s Eve Party at H. Toad’s @Camden on the Lake

Where:  2359 Bittersweet Rd, Lake Ozark, MO

When:  6:00 p.m.

Live Music Roundup:

               6 p.m. – 10 p.m.              Rob Wilson

               9 p.m. – 1 a.m.                 Five Turn Knot

               1 a.m. – 3 a.m.                 DJ Lou

The Horny Toad Entertainment Complex is home to some of the best nightlife at Lake of the Ozarks

New Year’s Eve Party at Margaritaville Lake Resort

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

When:  7:00 p.m.

Their New Years Eve package offers everything you need for a night filled with fun, glamour and unforgettable moments:

·        One night accommodations

·        Open Bar

·        Dinner Buffet

·        Two Live Bands – Butch Wax and The Cherry Pistols

·        Champagne Toast and favors at midnight

·        Costume Contest – Theme:  Speakeasy Soiree (wear your best roaring 20’s costume)

Call (573) 348-3131 for Reservations

 

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

Where:  3076 Bagnell Dam Blvd, Lake Ozark, MO

When:  5:00 p.m. – 1:00 a.m.

Join them for an evening of dinner, drinks and live music!  They have a four course meal along with music by Gracia, Marcus Words, Jordan Isakson and The Mikey Needleman Band.

Call (573) 693-9973 for more information and reservations.

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

Christmas Lights at the Lake 2024

 

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, 2025

Laurie Fairgrounds

Hours of Operation:

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

 

Unity of Lights

Now through December 31, 2024

Versailles City Park

 

St. Patrick's Festival of Lights

Now through January 5, 2025

St. Patrick Church - Laurie, MO

Hours of Operation:

5 pm - 10 pm Daily

 

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. For more licensing information, visit NMLSConsumerAccess.org

Where Will Rates Close in 2024?????

 

As another year races by, what will the markets be watching as we bring 2024 to a close?

Let's take a look. Inflation pressures have somewhat eased, but one metric, the Core Consumer Price Index year over year, remains stubbornly sticky at 3.3%. The core rate strips out volatile food and energy. The headline Consumer Price Index hit a 40-year high of 9.1% year over year in June of 2022 but has fallen to 2.6%. The rate of inflation has declined, but prices are still rising.

Borrowing costs fell from multi-year highs in September but have pushed above those lows and look to remain near current levels for the remainder of the year and into early next year. The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage is currently just below the 7% level, as would-be home buyers try to hold off on one of their biggest investments as they seek a lower monthly cost.

The Federal Reserve will hold its Federal Open Market Committee meeting on December 17th-18th, where it is expected it will cut the short-term Fed Funds Rate by 0.25%. This is despite Fed members saying the economy is strong and the job market remains solid. But don't get too excited; a Fed Rate cut doesn't equal lower borrowing costs. At the time of the Fed Rate cut of 0.50% on September 18th, the 30-year fixed rate was just above 6% and has since climbed to 6.81%.

Over in the stock markets, investors will be looking for the Santa Claus rally, which is the sustained increase in the stock market that occurs around the Christmas holiday on December 25th. Most estimate these rallies happen in the week leading up to the Christmas holiday, while others see trends that begin on Christmas Day through January 2nd. The closely watched S&P 500 stock index is currently near an all-time record high.

Bottom line: Stocks, bonds, interest rates, borrowing costs, inflation, home buying ... and along with everyday life, so much for the American consumer to juggle. For those in the quest for homeownership, we know that there are many hurdles to jump, but they are easier when you know you can achieve the American Dream.

Source: Mortgage Market Guide

Team Lasson is here for all of your home buying needs!  If you’re thinking about making the leap into home ownership in the near future, please contact us today to get started.  We can help you determine what loan program works best for 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.  Please visit www.yourlakeloan.com or give us a call at (573) 216-7258 to get started.

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

 

Understanding Property Taxes

Property Taxes | How They're Determined & What You Need to Know

Property taxes are a significant consideration for homeowners and potential buyers, as they contribute to the cost of owning a home. These taxes are typically used to fund local services such as schools, public safety, infrastructure, and community development. Understanding how property taxes are determined can help homeowners plan their finances better and avoid surprises.

How Property Taxes Are Determined

Property taxes are generally calculated based on the assessed value of your property, which includes both the land and any structures on it. Local government assessors evaluate the property’s market value, considering factors such as location, size, use, and comparable property sales in the area. The assessment process may vary depending on the jurisdiction, but it usually involves a periodic appraisal, often conducted annually or biannually.

Once the assessed value is determined, local tax rates, known as millage or mill rates, are applied. These rates are set by local government entities, such as city councils or school boards, and can vary widely depending on the area’s budgetary needs. The mill rate is typically expressed as a dollar amount per $1,000 of assessed value. For example, if the mill rate is 20 and your property is assessed at $200,000, your annual property tax would be $4,000. It’s important to note that these rates can change over time, reflecting the financial needs of the local government or changes in property values.

Factors Influencing Property Taxes

Several factors can influence the amount of property taxes you pay:

1. Property Location: Taxes can vary significantly based on where the property is located, as different municipalities have different tax rates and levies.
2. Property Improvements: Any improvements or additions to the property, such as building a new room or upgrading the kitchen, can increase the assessed value and, consequently, the tax amount.
3. Market Conditions: Property values fluctuate based on real estate market conditions. In a booming market, property values—and taxes—may rise, while a downturn could lower them.
4. Local Government Budget: The tax rates are influenced by the financial needs of local government services. If there is a need for increased funding, tax rates may rise accordingly.
5. Exemptions and Relief Programs: Many areas offer property tax exemptions or relief programs for certain groups, such as senior citizens, veterans, or low-income homeowners. These can significantly reduce the overall tax burden.

Understanding Your Property Tax Bill

Your property tax bill will detail how your taxes are calculated and provide a breakdown of where the funds are allocated. It’s crucial to review this bill carefully and understand each component. If you believe your property has been overvalued or the tax amount is incorrect, you have the right to appeal the assessment.

Understanding property taxes is essential for homeowners to effectively manage their finances and avoid unexpected costs. By understanding how property taxes are determined and what factors influence them, you can make informed decisions about buying, maintaining, or improving your property. Keeping an eye on local government activities and budgetary needs can also help anticipate potential changes in your tax obligations. 

Sources:

TaxFoundation.org

Investopedia

Team Lasson is here for all of your home buying needs!  If you’re thinking about making the leap into home ownership in the near future, please contact us today to get started.  We can help you determine what loan program works best for 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.  Please visit www.yourlakeloan.com or give us a call at (573) 216-7258 to get started.

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

Thanksgiving Feasts around the Lake 2024

 

If you find yourself enjoying the Thanksgiving holiday at the Lake but don’t want to spend the entire day in the kitchen…….check out Team Lasson’s list of local restaurants serving meals on Thanksgiving.  Take this time to relax and enjoy time with your family!

 

Camden on the Lake

They are having a buffet 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., which is perfect for your parade and football game viewers. It’s in H. Toad’s Bar and Grill with a bonus of Live Music with Dave Bennett.

$42 for Adults

$36 for Seniors

$22 for Kids 6-12

It’s a very gourmet take on the typical feast with Citrus and Sage Brined Turkey, Dover Sole with Lemon Crab Sauce, and Quinoa salad with black Walnuts, but they have all the traditional dishes as well. 

 

HK’s Restaurant and Bar 

They have an introductory seafood round heading up their Thanksgiving Buffet from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Their indulgent menu includes all the traditional fare with a brunch omelet bar.

$40 for Adults

$18 for Children 5-12

 

Encore Lakeside Bar and Grill 

Their Thanksgiving feast is 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. and features Turkey and Prime Rib on the carving board along with an andouille stuffing, and blackened grouper, among over 30 other choices.

$48 for Adults

$42 for Seniors

$20 for Children 5-12

 

The Trophy Room at Old Kinderhook 

This venue makes the perfect place to take the family for a well-rounded holiday since their ice-skating rink is opening on Thanksgiving Day. Buffet is served from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Their menu is straight up traditional with a seafood appetizer bar.

$42 for Adults

$36 for Seniors and Military

$16 for Children 5-12

 

Country Club Hotel and Spa Buffet 

They have a more simplified menu of the traditional offerings and is a good option for those that can’t decide when presented with too many choices.

$36 for Adults

$14 for Children 6-12

 

Inn of the Grand Glaize 

They are offering a buffet that is served from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

$22.95 for Adults

$18.95 for Seniors

$12.95 for Children 4-12

Team Lasson is here for all of your home buying needs!  If you’re thinking about making the leap into home ownership in the near future, please contact us today to get started.  We can help you determine what loan program works best for 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.  Please visit www.yourlakeloan.com or give us a call at (573) 216-7258 to get started.

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