Friday, May 29, 2015

The Home Buying Process

Buying a house is one of the most exciting adventures you'll undergo in your lifetime. It is also one of the largest investments you will ever make. To uncomplicate the home buying process, your Lake of the Ozarks mortgage lender is here to help! Follow these steps to help you make the best decisions possible:

1. Determine How Much You Can Afford. 


Lenders will generally recommend you look for a home that is no more than 3-5 times your annual household income. However, you should make this decision based on your own financial situation. How much you can afford will depend on your income, credit rating, current monthly expenses, down payment and the interest rate. Use our online calculators to help throughout the mortgage process!

2. Get Prequalified and Preapproved for a Loan. 


Most first-time home buyers will need financing and a consultation with a mortgage lender is a crucial step. Now there is a difference between getting prequalified and getting preapproved for a Lake of the Ozarks mortgage loan. Getting prequalified is just a guess based on what you tell the lender and there is no guarantee. Whereas with a preapproval, you'll get a better idea of how big a loan you qualify for based on your credit and other financial documents you provide. Your offer will look more appealing than other buyers who have not been preapproved.

3. Find a Real Estate Agent. 


Many times, your mortgage lender will be able to provide recommendations on great real estate agents in the area. Since the lender is involved throughout the entire home buying process, they'll be able to recommend an agent that gets a lot of closings. While it may seem like you can find a home on your own, with the maze of forms, financing, inspections, marketing, pricing and negotiating, it makes sense to hire a professional who knows the community and much more!

4. Shop Around. 


Make a list of all the things you want in a house. Since you're going to have to live with this decision for awhile, you want to make sure you choose a home wisely. Once you've made a list of must-haves, think about the neighborhood, schools, commute to work and the convenience of local shopping. Once you start touring homes, it might be helpful to make some notes. Write down the pros and cons of each place you visit. Take as much time as you need to find the right home for you!

5. Make an Offer. 


Once you've found the home you like, it's time to make an offer. Most sellers will price their homes a little high, expecting some negotiating to be involved. This is where you will work with your real estate agent to negotiate a fair offer based on the value of comparable homes. Making an offer is not final, as the seller can come back with a counter-offer. Once you've agreed on a price, the house will go into escrow, which is the period of time it takes to complete the rest of the steps in the home buying process.

6. Get a Loan. 


First State Bank Mortgage has a variety of loan options, from adjustable rate to fixed rate. When it comes to your financing needs, Lakelender Michael Lasson will discuss financing options, offer competitive interest rates and back it up with the first class service you deserve! Every home buyer has different needs when it comes to their mortgage; you may be interested in the lowest monthly payment possible or interested in getting the best interest rate out there. Your lender will be able to help you every step of the way!

7. Get a Home Inspection. 


Offers are typically contingent on a home inspection to ensure there's no structural damage or anything else that may need fixing. It will be well-worth the money to know the property is in good condition. This contingency protects the buyer by allowing a renegotiation or withdraw of the offer without penalty if the inspect reveals significant material damage. Once you receive a report, you can decide if you want to ask the seller to fix anything before the closing.

8. Get an Appraisal. 


Your mortgage lender will arrange for an appraiser to provide an estimate on the value of the house you are buying. The appraisal will let all the parties involved know that you are paying a fair price for the home. A home appraisal also protects the bank from getting stuck with property that is worth less than what they've invested. The home appraisal is a no-nonsense factor in a decision that is often emotional for the buyer.

9. Find Homeowners Insurance. 


You wouldn't drive a car without insurance, so why would you own a house without it? Real estate insurance protects the owners in the event of a catastrophe. You never know when something could happen to your home, therefore it is important to have insurance lined up before the closing, when ownership is transferred to you.

10. Close on the Home. 


At closing, you will sign all the appropriate documents to complete the purchase. Be sure to talk to your mortgage lender to understand all the costs that will be involved in the closing. Closing costs typically include, but aren't limited to, your down payment, title fees, appraisal fees, attorney fees and inspection fees. It typically takes a few days for your new home loan at the Lake of the Ozarks to be funded after the paperwork is complete. Once the check is delivered to the seller, it's time to move into your new home!

With home loan rates currently at attractive levels, now is the time to consider purchasing a home at the Lake of the Ozarks! Contact me today at 573-746-7211 to discuss home loan options. Lakelender Michael Lasson is opening the doors to your Lake Home! 

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


Michael Lasson
Sr. Residential Mortgage Lender
NMLS #: 493712

2265 Bagnell Dam Blvd, Suite B
PO Box 1449
Lake Ozark, MO 65049

Direct:  (573) 746-7211

Email:  mlasson@fsbfinancial.com

**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, May 21, 2015

Watch Fireworks Over Beautiful Lake of the Ozarks this Memorial Day Weekend!

Memorial Day Weekend is almost here! The first big weekend at the Lake this season will be filled with BBQs, boating and of course fireworks! Your Lake of the Ozarks mortgage lender is here to ensure you know about all the great events going on this weekend. Check it out!

FIREWORKS 


Bear Bottom Resort: May 23 at 9:45 PM
View by land at Bear Bottom Resort or by water at the 38 Mile Marker. Parking is limited; Arrive early. Call for details: 573-374-6905. 

Tan-Tar-A Resort: May 24 from 8:30-9:30 PM
Viewing by land on the Tan-Tar-A property reserved for resort guests only. View by water at the 26 Mile Marker. Call for details: 573-348-3131.  

Tropic Island Cruise: May 24 from 8:30-9:30 PM 
View the Tan-Tar-A Resort fireworks display from the water at the 26 Mile Marker, aboard the Tropic Island Cruises yacht. Call for reservations and details: 573-348-0083. 

The Lodge of Four Seasons: May 24 from 6-10 PM 
BBQ and Carnival held prior to the fireworks event (weather permitting). Adult $22, Children $12, 5 and under Free. Paid Non-Hotel Guests must be on the Lodge of Four Seasons property before 8:00 pm.
View by water at the 13 Mile Marker. Call for details: 573-365-3000. 

Celebration Cruises: May 24 fom 7-9:30 PM 
View the Lodge of Four Seasons fireworks display from the water at the 13 Mile Marker, aboard the Celebration Cruises yacht. Call for reservations and details: (573) 480-3212. 

OTHER EVENTS


Gun Show at the Lake:  May 22-24 

Make your way to the new Gun Show at the Lake at the Lodge of Four Seasons in Lake Ozark. You’ll find a huge selection guns and related items such as ammo, rifles, handguns, shotguns, magazines, grips, scopes, knives, military surplus and so much more. Show Hours: Friday 2-8, Saturday 9-5 and Sunday 10-4. 

Contagious & Lucas Bebee Live in Concert:  May 22-24 

H.Toad's Summer Concert Series at Camden on the Lake Resort Outside Stage: Contagious – The Ultimate Party Band! A crafty mix of polished pop-rock with the best classic-rock hits. 9PM - 1AM each night Memorial Day Weekend. Inside Stage: Lucas Bebee - 9PM - 1 AM each night Memorial Day Weekend.

OYC's Parade of Lights:  May 23

Both power and sail boats will be decorated with lights from bow to stern and join together in a parade from the Ozark Yacht Club, along Bagnell Dam in front of Willmore Lodge to Beacon Point Condominiums and returning along the south side of the Lake back to OYC. This parade commemorates U.S men and women who performed service for their country. Please join us in the parade or along the parade route from 8-10 PM. If you are interested in participating in this event please contact Sara at 573-552-8401.

Sanctified Blues in Concert:  May 23

The Sanctified Blue Band will perform in concert at 8 p.m. on Saturday, May 23 on the Luby’s Stage next to the Wok and Roll Thai restaurant on Bagnell Dam Boulevard in Lake Ozark. The concert is free and starts at 8 pm. 

Putting for Patriots:  May 23-24

Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf, in Osage Beach, MO, will host the 9th Annual Putting for Patriots fundraiser May 23-24. This national event will occur simultaneously at 33 Pirate’s Cove, Pirate’s Island and Jungle Golf miniature golf courses throughout the US. This event will support 3 charities, which serve our wounded veterans, their families and survivors of the fallen. These organizations include: “Hope For The Warriors”, “Homes for Our Troops” and “TAPS—Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors.” Pirate’s Cove, Jungle Golf and Pirate’s Island will donate a percentage of their total sales on Saturday, May 23 and Sunday, May 24. In addition, from May 8 through May 25, each golf course will accept donations to be turned over to the three charities. Since its inception, this event has raised over $231,000.

Happy Memorial Day Weekend from your mortgage lender at the Lake of the Ozarks! If you enjoy the Lake on summer weekends, consider purchasing a second home at the Lake of the Ozarks. I can help you with all of your financing needs and am committed to working with you every step of the way. I'll discuss financing options, offer competitive rates and back it up with the first class service you deserve. Call 573-746-7211 today!

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


Michael Lasson
Sr. Residential Mortgage Lender
NMLS #: 493712

2265 Bagnell Dam Blvd, Suite B
PO Box 1449
Lake Ozark, MO 65049

Direct:  (573) 746-7211

Email:  mlasson@fsbfinancial.com

**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, May 13, 2015

A Slippery Slope for Housing

The housing market is continually changing and although we have forecasts, you never really know what could happen. February was a great month for new and existing home sales, while March didn't do as well. Take a look below at how the housing market is doing so far this year and consider a new home loan at the Lake of the Ozarks today!

New Home Sales 


March may roar in like a lion, but that's not the same story for March's New Home Sales. Unexpectedly, they fell by 11.4%, a huge contrast from February's figures showing the strongest performance in 7 years. The harsh winter that froze construction in January and February may not thaw performance for April's and May's sales figures.

Existing Home Sales


On a different note, Exisiting Home Sales in March surged just over 6% from February. This was the largest monthly increase since December 2010. Sales are also up over 10% from a year ago. After a quiet start to the year, sales activity picked up signigicantly throughout the country in March.

Economic and Housing Outlook


Fannie Mae released its April 2015 Economic and Housing Outlook revealing that economic activity slowed in the first quarter, largely due to West Coast port disruptions and difficult weather patterns gripping much of the Northeast. This was also reflected in the first reading for first quarter 2015 Gross Domestic Product (GDP). GDP fell to 0.2%. Now that spring has arrived, it will be important to see if economic activity blooms along with the weather.

Home loan rates remain very attractive, making now a great time to consider a home purchase or refinance at the Lake of the Ozarks! When it comes to your financing needs, your Lake of the Ozarks mortgage lender is committed to working with you every step of the way. I'll discuss financing options, offer competitive rates and back it up with the first class service you deserve. Give me a call at 573-746-7211 today!

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


Michael Lasson
Sr. Residential Mortgage Lender
NMLS #: 493712

2265 Bagnell Dam Blvd, Suite B
PO Box 1449
Lake Ozark, MO 65049

Direct:  (573) 746-7211

Email:  mlasson@fsbfinancial.com

**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, May 6, 2015

Celebrate Mother's Day at Lake of the Ozarks

Mother's Day is less than a week away. Have you thought about how you're going to celebrate your mom this year? Why not celebrate Mother's Day right here at the beautiful Lake of the Ozarks? Take your mom out for a delicious meal at one of these special Mother's Day Brunch events:

Mother's Day Brunch at Old Kinderhook 


Join us for Mother's Day Brunch, Sunday from 10am to 3pm. The menu will feature Cold Smoked Salmon, Gulf Chilled Shrimp, Back Yard Salad, an Omelet Station, Bacon, Sausage, French Toast, Prime Rib, Stuffed Chicken, Danish, Pastries, various desserts and much, much more! Prices are $32 for adults, $27 for seniors, $10 for children 5-10 and children 4 & under eat free. Please call 573-317-3560 for reservations.

Mother's Day Brunch at Lake Valley Country Club 

Join us for Mother's Day Brunch, Sunday from 10am to 1pm. The menu will feature Omelets, Scrambled Egggs, Breakfast Potatoes, Hickory Smoked Bacon, Link Sausage, Fluffy Buttermilk Biscuits, Country Gravy, French Toast, Fresh Sliced Fruit, Honey Glazed Baked Ham, Hickory Smoked Beef Brisket, Apple BBQ Chicken, Baked White Fish with Lemon Beurre Blanc Sauce, YuKon Gold Mashed Potatoes, Tuscan Vegetables, Garden Fresh Salad Bar, Fresh Baked Rolls, Chocolate Cake, Strawberry Shortcake, Dessert Bars, Cheesecake and Sugar Cookie Tart. Prices are $19.95 for adults, $18.95 for seniors, $9 for children 6-12 and children 5 & under are free. For reservations, please call 573-346-7213.

Camden on the Lake Mother's Day Brunch 


Treat mom with our Mother's Day Brunch, Sunday from 11am to 3pm, including Carving Stations, a Seafood Bar, Eggs Benedict, Biscuits & Gravy, Scrambled Eggs, Sausage, Bacon, Rosted Garlic Au Gratin Potatoes, Cakes, Pies and much more! Prices are $30 for adults, $24 for seniors and $14 for children. Those Guys will be performing while you enjoy our delicious brunch and beautiful weather!

Mother's Day Brunch at Tan-Tar-A


Celebrate Mom with our fabulous brunch, Sunday from 11am to 2pm in the Grand Ballroom. The menu will feature Carved Bourbon Praline Glazed Ham, Carved Prime Rib served with Au Jus and Horseradish Cream, Chicken Roulade Stuffed with Spinach and Pine Nuts, Crab Stuffed Tilapia with Lemon Beurre Blanc, Roasted Pork Loin with an Apple Demi-Glaze and much more! Prices are $27.95 for adults, $19.95 for seniors, $14.95 for children 4-12 and children age 3 & under are free. Reservations are required; call 573-348-8619.

Mother's Day Brunch at the Inn at Grand Glaize 


Join us for Mother's Day Brunch, Sunday from 10am to 3pm. The menu will feature Pineapple Honey Glazed Ham, Slow Roasted Prim Rib, Made to Order Omelets, Scrambled Eggs, Apple Smoked Bacon, Cheese Blintzes, Waffles, Assorted Breakfast Pastries, Smoked Salmon, Lemon Glazed Tilapia, Chicken Florentine, Wild Rice Blend, Prince William Vegetable Blend, Garlic Roasted Scalloped Potatoes, Assortmen of Salads, Array of Desserts, Fruit and Juice. Enjoy all of this for just $20.95 for adults, $17.95 for Seniors and $8.95 for Children 7-12. Children 6 and under are free! Reservations are recommended; call 800-348-4731.

Mother's Day Brunch at The Lodge of Four Seasons


Celebrate and join us for Mother's Day Brunch, Sunday from 11am to 3pm in the Granada Ballroom. Brunch selections include a Bread Display, Cheese and Charcuterie, Cubed Fruit Display, Highball Caesar Salad, Mixed Greens Salad, Bibb Salad, Raw Bar, Minestrone Soup, Vegetable Bouquetiere, Apple & Maytag Bleu Cheese Dauphinoise Potatoes, Cedar Plank Salmon, Red Delicious Apple Pork Loin, Herb-Butter Roasted Chicken, Applewood Smoked Bacon, Sausage Links, Individual Assorted Quiche, Omelet Station, Macaroni and Cheese Station, Roast Baron of Beef, Smoked Turkey, Kid's Buffet, Desserts and Bananas Foster Station. Price is $39.95 for adults, $33.95 for seniors, $14.95 for children 6-12 and children 5 & under are free. Advance reservations are recommended; call 573-365-3000.

Mother's Day Brunch at Captain Ron's 


Join us for Mother's Day Brunch, Sunday from 9am to 1pm. The menu will feature Eggs, Hashbrowns, Bacon, Sausage, Eggs Benedict, Biscuit/Gravy, French Toast, Cheese Blintz with Raspberry Sauce, Omelets to Order, Breakfast Breads, Honey Glazed Ham, Lime Crusted Tilapia, Smoked Chicken Quarters, Roasted Sweet Potatoes, Macaroni and Cheese, Garden Blend Rice, Fresh Cut Sweet Corn, Broccoli Salad, Cucumber Salad, Fresh Fruit, Assorted Cakes and a Champagne Fountain. Adults price is $17.95 and $9.00 for children.

Happy Mother's Day from your Lake of the Ozarks mortgage lender! When it comes to your financing needs, I'm committed to working with you every step of the way. I'll discuss financing options, offer competitive rates and back it up with the first class service you deserve. If you're in need of a new home loan or are interested in refinancing your home at the Lake of the Ozarks, give me a call at 573-746-7211 today!

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


Michael Lasson
Sr. Residential Mortgage Lender
NMLS #: 493712

2265 Bagnell Dam Blvd, Suite B
PO Box 1449
Lake Ozark, MO 65049

Direct:  (573) 746-7211

Email:  mlasson@fsbfinancial.com

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