Showing posts with label purchasing a home in the fall. Show all posts
Showing posts with label purchasing a home in the fall. Show all posts

Wednesday, October 28, 2020

How to Enjoy the Fall Colors at Lake of the Ozarks

The Fall colors are quickly approaching the peak of change as we head into November, displaying vibrant yellow, orange, and red hues. Now is the perfect time to experience awe-inspiring views, enjoying crisp Fall weather, and the natural beauty that Lake of the Ozarks has to offer. There are numerous ways to experience Fall at the Lake of the Ozarks, from scenic overlooks and state parks to boat side and birds-eye tours. If you own a second home at Lake of the Ozarks now is a great time to visit, you won't want to miss this Fall beauty!

Team Lasson is here to share some of the ways we think you'll enjoy the Fall colors this year.

Boat Side

As the number one recreational activity at Lake of the Ozarks, viewing the Fall foliage from your boat is naturally an amazing way to capture the beauty of the season. So, if you haven't winterized the boat for the season quite yet, this is a great opportunity to get one-of-a-kind views while exploring the Lake. You could boat down the Aquatic trail for some unique views or cruise the main channel for more adventure while out sightseeing. 

If you're not fortunate enough to own a boat of your own, no worries! Lake of the Ozarks has fabulous cruises available for charter that will narrate stories about the history of the Lake as you leisurely take in the sights.

Birds-Eye View

One way to view the Fall colors at Lake of the Ozarks is by taking to the air! The Lake looks different from up this high, experience the awe of the "magic dragon" as you take to the skies with one of the aerial tours available. These tours are narrated and have several packages available to you to customize your viewing experience.

Scenic Overlooks

There are several gorgeous overlooks worth visiting at Lake of the Ozarks, all offering breathtaking views of the Fall colors. The first is the Ameren scenic overlook, located just off the Bagnell Dam on Upper Power Plant Rd, Lake Ozark. The second can be seen from Wilmore Lodge, also in Lake Ozark - not far from the Ameren lookout. The third overlook, Thunder Mountain Scenic Overlook can be visited in Camdenton in Bridal Cave Rd, just off Old Hwy 5. These overlooks are a fantastic place to stop along the way as you tour Lake of the Ozarks.

State Parks

Lake of the Ozarks is proud to boast two award-winning State Parks, Ha Ha Tonka State Park and Lake of the Ozarks State Park.
Ha Ha Tonka State Park is roughly four miles south of Camdenton and offers 14 trails ranging from leisurely to challenging, overlooks, as well as historic castle ruins. Enjoy the Fall foliage as you explore this gorgeous park, taking in the vibrant colors, natural geological formations, springs, caverns, and sinkholes - not forgetting the pristine hardwood forestry and glades. 
The Lake of the Ozarks State Park is located in Osage Beach, holding roughly 17,626 acres of beautiful forestry as well as 12 hiking trails ranging from 0.8miles to 13.5miles. There are trails to accommodate many different activities such as equestrian, biking, and leisurely strolls, all offering astounding views of the Fall season.

Your Own Deck

There are many great ways to view the Fall foliage at Lake of the Ozarks, but there is one that stands out above all else - Fall views from your very own deck or porch! When you own a home at Lake of the Ozarks you'll have every opportunity to view the gorgeous Fall season at your convenience, without even leaving your cozy abode. If you own a vacation home at Lake of the Ozarks, now is the perfect time to come enjoy the breathtaking Fall season and begin thinking about winterizing the home for the offseason.

If you don't own a home at Lake of the Ozarks quite yet, no worries! Team Lasson has an experienced and dedicated team of mortgage professionals that would be overjoyed to assist you in securing your mortgage at Lake of the Ozarks. Give us a call today to see how we can be of assistance!

                           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






**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, October 31, 2019

Five Ways to Enjoy the Fall Colors

As the Autumn colors begin to spread across the horizons, now is a great time to get out there and enjoy nature. From the scenic overlooks to hikes where you are up close in nature, the Lake of the Ozarks offers many beautiful ways to appreciate the colors, soak in the season, and enjoy every last drop of Fall. Here are five ways Team Lasson thinks you will enjoy the colors this year.


Scenic Overlooks

Stop by the Ameren scenic overlook, located just off the Bagnell Dam on Upper Power Plant Road in the Lake Ozark. This is a beautifully scenic spot and it offers a unique view of Bagnell Dam, the Lake of the Ozarks, and those gorgeous colors. Wilmore Lodge is also just down the road and they offer a breathtaking panoramic view of the lake from the back deck of their building.

From the Sky 

If you are looking for a new perspective on the Fall color sightings, you can book an aerial tour! There are a few options around the Lake, some by helicopter and others by airplane. Enjoy the narrated photography tours and choose from several different tour options for scenic views and lake area highlights.

State Parks

At the Lake of the Ozarks, we boast of two beautiful State Parks. About four miles south of Camdenton, you can visit Ha Ha Tonka State Park and enjoy the Fall colors from several different trails, overlooks, and even from the castle ruins. There are 14 walking trails throughout the park where you can also appreciate other aspects of nature like the geological formations, caverns, springs, and sinkholes - not to mention woodland areas and glades. The Lake of the Ozarks State Park in Osage Beach covers 17,626 acres and has 12 hiking trails ranging from 0.8 of a mile to 13.5 miles. There are also trails for mountain bikers and equestrians, which can offer an adventurous view of the colors. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a vigorous hike, both state parks have a lot to offer.

On a Boat

The views by water can be a truly breathtaking way to enjoy those Fall colors. If you haven’t winterized your boat, now is a great time to take it out for one last spin before getting it ready for Winter. You could take your boat down the Aquatic trail for a unique view, or you can coast the main channel and explore areas you haven’t seen before. If you don’t own a boat at the Lake, there are other cruise services available with narrated cruises and an emphasis on the history of the Lake.


Relaxing On Your Deck

Finally, one of the best ways to enjoy the Fall colors - from the porch or deck of your home. Even if you don’t have a lakefront home, there’s no view like the scenery at your own Lake of the Ozarks home. If you have a vacation home at the Lake of the Ozarks, now is a great time to come down, enjoy the season, and then make sure that your home is ready for the winter. If you don’t have a home at the Lake of the Ozarks yet, that’s where Team Lasson can help.

Now is an incredible time to make a real estate investment, as we’re seeing some amazing mortgage rates. Visit our website to submit your application and get the process started. We look forward to helping you secure your mortgage at the Lake of the Ozarks, and maybe even getting it all wrapped up before the end of the year for some tax benefits! Enjoy the season, and don’t forget to share your Fall photos!

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.

Friday, October 4, 2019

FAQs About Getting a Home Mortgage in the Fall

While it may not feel like it yet, the Fall season is here and we are so excited about what it means to our home buyers. There have been some interesting things happening in the mortgage market, and many homebuyers are finding that the interest rates are phenomenal. From new mortgages to refinancing, this is truly looking to be one of the best seasons to buy. If you have been thinking about purchasing a home at the Lake of the Ozarks over the next few months, here are the answers to a few frequently asked questions that may guide you towards the right decision for you.



Q: Does the season really matter when buying a home?
A: Essentially, no. However, certain things will happen year-round to influence buying trends, price drops, and interest rates. This year has been interesting, as we are seeing some incredibly low-interest rates. It is being fueled by other things that are impacting the housing market and even the world - but it leads to NOW being an excellent time to buy a home.

Q: Can I save money by buying in the Fall instead of the Summer?
A: This is dependent upon your area, but for the Lake of the Ozarks, time of year can play a huge roll in the price of a home. Summer is a busy season, where the area is hopping with excitement, and the homes are at their peak in terms of curb appeal and Summer fun. Summer is also a great time of year for moving, and many more homes are listed during the summer months. However, as we move into Fall, you may find that the inventory goes up, prices come down, and it becomes the best time for you to secure your dream vacation home at the Lake of the Ozarks.

Q: What is happening right now to affect the loan rates?
A: There was a little trade deal with Japan that happened, and with solid housing numbers, and hopeful news on the U.S./China trade dispute, it was enough to cancel out the improvement in rates that we had been seeing. There was also a Fed rate cut, and currently, it looks like there is at least a 70% chance the Fed will cut the overnight Fed Funds Rate by .25% by year-end.

What home buyers and those looking to refinance must understand is that Fed rate cuts do not equal lower home loan rates. Fed rate cuts are designed to keep the U.S. economic expansion alive while promoting inflation, and if the Fed is successful in that endeavor, there is a limit to how low home loan rates can go.

On the other hand, if the Fed is unsuccessful and our economy slows further, and our inflation rate cools further, then we will see lower home loan rates in the future. Think bad news is good for home loan rates. This basically means that home loan rates have essentially moved sideways to slightly higher in the past few weeks, but still remain just above three-year lows making it a great opportunity to refinance or purchase a home.


Now Is The Time To Buy

As we move into the holiday seasons, keep in mind that fewer people will want to take on the task of buying a home. This means that not only are the rates looking really good, but you may also have a LOT to choose from. The first step is getting your pre-approval completed, after that, it is time to start shopping! Visit our website and provide the information needed for the pre-approval for your Lake of the Ozarks mortgage. We look forward to working with you over this season as you make your home purchase!

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.