Thursday, December 16, 2021

Factors that Determine Your Mortgage Interest Rate

Interest rates are still very low making it a fantastic time to buy or refinance a home at the Lake of the Ozarks. Our mortgage lenders in Osage Beach, MO are constantly tracking interest rates. When looking to secure a loan, the interest rate is an important factor. It's essentially the rate you are charged to borrow money. The interest you pay on a loan can be a significant amount, especially when paying toward it over 30 years. Team Lasson, knows how it is important to get the best rate possible for your loan and we work hard each and every day to do just that for our clients. While there is a national average for interest rates, each individual applicant may receive a different rate, when applying for a home loan. There are many factors that come into play when determining the mortgage interest rate you receive. Take a look below at some of the factors that can have an impact on your rate. 

Purpose & Loan Type

The purpose of the home you're purchasing can have an impact on your overall interest rate (i.e., Primary Home, Second Home, Investment Property, etc.). The type of loan you're securing can become a determining factor on your interest rate, as well. It's best to speak with a local mortgage lender to be aware of all the loan options for your specific needs. 


Loan-To-Value

The total loan amount vs. the purchase price or appraised value for a refinance of the home may determine the rate of interest you'll pay on your loan. The amount of down payment you plan to pay can impact your interest rate as well as determine whether or not you will need to carry Private Mortgage Insurance. 


Credit Score

Your credit score is your rating of how well you manage your money and repay debts, among other things. A strong credit rating can help you secure a loan at a lower interest rate. A good score proves to the lender that you are likely responsible with your money and much more likely to make your payments in a responsible manner. 


Overall Economy

The market sets the overall market rate and is the main factor in determining the interest rate on a home loan. Inflation and employment rates give lenders an idea of how healthy the market is as a whole. If the economic environment is strong, interest rates tend to rise.

Now that you've learned about many of the factors used to determine an interest rate, you can feel more confident and prepared as you plan to purchase a home at the Lake of the Ozarks. Our team is here to make the entire process a breeze! Call (573) 746-7211 or visit our website at www.yourlakeloan.com for more information.

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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, December 9, 2021

5 Reasons BUYING is Better than Renting

Buying a home is a big step but in many cases, it's the best option! Renting has a few perks but the benefits of homeownership usually outweigh them. Our Lake of the Ozarks mortgage lender gets asked about the benefits of buying a home at the Lake of the Ozarks versus renting. And that's just what we're dedicating our blog to answer this week. Check out the top 5 reasons Team Lasson believes buying is more superior to renting. 

1. Long Term Investment

Real estate is typically a solid investment. Over time, the worth of your home may increase, therefore offering you a great return on your investment. A mortgage is typically a 30 year loan, although many buyers don't stay in their first home for that long -- it's still important to think long term when investing in a home. 


2. Predictable Monthly Payment

Rent payments can change with little notice and typically increase year after year. The monthly payment your lender quotes you is usually what you can expect to pay on your home until your property is paid off. This number may fluctuate a little as your homeowners' insurance and other factors can impact your monthly payment, but you can usually plan your budget well in advance as to what your mortgage payment will be each month. This helps when budgeting and planning for future financial goals. 


3. Provide a Stable Environment

Having a solid home base can provide a sense of security. Get out of the yearly cycle of finding a different place to rent and plant your roots in a home. Moving frequently can be exhausting and quite frankly, a big added expense. Provide yourself and your family with a stable environment when you purchase vs rent. 


4. Create Your Own Space

Many first-time buyers are excited to be able to make their house a home. You can paint the walls any color you'd like, hang pictures and decor on the walls without the worry of getting a deposit back, and make exterior changes to make the home yours. There are so many avenues to get your creative energy out and to put your own personal stamp on your space!


5. Personally Rewarding

Buying a home is a big accomplishment and something you should be very proud of. Give yourself the opportunity to show pride in what you are able to do and provide for your family! It really is a rewarding feeling to be a homeowner.

Whether you're particularly excited to experience one of these homeownership perks or you're excited for them all, allow our Osage Beach mortgage lender the honor of helping you become a homeowner at the Lake of the Ozarks! Our team of experienced lenders can walk you through the steps of getting preapproved for a home loan at the Lake of the Ozarks. Call (573) 746-7211 or visit our website at www.yourlakeloan.com for more information.

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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.

 

Friday, December 3, 2021

Catch the Best Holiday Light Displays Around the Lake

With Thanksgiving officially behind us, the Christmas season is here! Our Lake of the Ozarks mortgage lender is excited for the holidays and wants to help share that excitement with you. We're featuring all of the amazing Christmas light displays you can visit around the Lake of the Ozarks area. Check them out!

ENCHANTED VILLAGE OF LIGHTS

Nov 20, 2021 - Jan 2, 2022

Laurie Fairgrounds

1 Fairground Rd

Laurie, MO 65037

Phone: 573-374-4871

Hours of Operation:

Nightly 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm (10:00 pm weekends)

Enchanted Village of Lights Drive-Thru Light Park

Laurie Fairgrounds


UNITY OF LIGHTS

Nov 25, 2021 - Jan 1, 2022

Versailles City Park

Hwy 52

Versailles, MO 65084

Phone: 573-378-4634

Unity of Lights Drive-Thru Light Park

Versailles City Park


ST. PATRICK'S FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS

Nov 25, 2021 - Jan 9, 2022

Shrine of St. Patrick's Church

724 N Main St

Laurie, MO 65037

Phone: 573-374-7855

Hours of Operation:

5 pm - 10 pm Daily

The Festival of Lights at the Shrine of St. Patrick, Hwy 5, Laurie, is the oldest light park in the area. It was started in 1981 with hundreds of lights decorating the buildings and grounds and has continued to grow each year. With 4,000 strings of lights, over 60 automatic timers and more than 350 extension cords, the Festival of Lights has turned into one of the major places to see. Instead of animated displays, the focus is on the true meaning of Christmas, Jesus and His Mother, Mary.


OSAGE BEACH HOLIDAY LIGHTS

Nov 29, 2021 - Dec 31, 2021

Osage Beach City Park

950 Hatchery Rd

Osage Beach, MO 65065

Hours of Operation:

5 pm - 9 pm

Holiday Lights

Open 5-9PM

November 29 - December 31

What are you waiting for? Now's the time to plan your holiday light outings to catch all of the amazing light displays around the area. Whether you live in the area full time or you're considering purchasing a vacation home at the Lake of the Ozarks, we're here for all of your home lending needs. Team Lasson makes it EASY to buy a home at the Lake of the Ozarks! Call (573) 746-7211 or visit our website at www.yourlakeloan.com for more information.


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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, November 23, 2021

We’re Thankful for Our Amazing Client Testimonials!

Thanksgiving week is here! This is a fantastic time of year to look back & give thanks for the amazing blessings we've received. We're going to kick off the week right by showcasing some of the amazing client testimonials that we're thankful for! Our clients and friends in the community are a great part of our success as a mortgage lender at the Lake of the Ozarks. Take a peek below to see what our amazing clients have recently said about Team Lasson!

"Michael and Michelle were very helpful and the online application/form options made the process very easy from KC." - Michele K.

"We were in a pinch when our "online" mortgage company couldn't produce and notified us 24 hours before closing. Yep! Should have listened to Mike from the start! We contacted Mike and Michelle immediately and the rest is now history. They took us on, knowing of the time constraints, and got us financed in a very short time. We only had to delay the closing 2 weeks from the original! Can't say it enough. STAY LOCAL!! Thank you so much Mike, Michelle, and the First State Bank Team." - Eugene A.

"They answered all of our questions timely and made the home buying process simple. They were fantastic to work with!" - Samantha S.

"This is our second mortgage with the Lasson's. They were quick and efficient with processing our loan. A pleasure to due do business with." - Kerry B.

"I appreciate the good communications we had during our loan process. First State Bank helped expedite the loan for our vacation home at Lake of the Ozarks." - Christopher P.

"The Lasson team is incredibly easy to work with. For every step of the way, they are responsive and their instructions are clear. They quickly alleviate any issues that arise and take on the stress themselves and away from the client. From a local agent, this team stands out!" - Amber E.

"Team Lesson picked up this loan while we were in process with another lender.  They are experts in the lake condo space and cleared hurdles others hadn't considered, all while having low rates and costs.  Thanks Michael, Michelle, and team!" - Ryan M.

"Everything went timely, which was important to us, and efficiently! Thanks for your great service!" - Mary F. 

"Not only keeping in touch but communicating what was needed and progress of application.  The closing was smooth and stress-free. Both Michelle and Michael were available to talk as well as Toni. Toni was so helpful and reassuring when I was stressed about the sale and closing on my house in Belton. She was patient and answered my questions thoroughly. " - Jo D.

"From our first conversation to our closing, everything was handled quickly and easily. This is a top notch company. Highly recommended!" - Kimberly F. 

"It was great doing business with a lender that is on top of everything. Michael and Michelle lived up to everything you would expect from a lender, in fact, they far exceeded it. I will always recommend them to anyone that is looking for a lender. And I wish to add that their assistant Toni was also on top of her job as well." - William B. 

If you're thinking of buying or refinancing a home at the Lake of the Ozarks, we'd be honored to put our expertise to work for you. There are many options available for purchasing and refinancing. Our team of mortgage lenders in Osage Beach, MO are here to explain the available options and advise you on the best way to reach your mortgage goals! Call (573) 746-7211 or visit our website at www.yourlakeloan.com for more information. We wish you & yours a happy Thanksgiving!

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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.

 

Friday, November 19, 2021

Places to Eat a Delicious Thanksgiving Meal at the Lake of the Ozarks

Thanksgiving is nearing and our Lake of the Ozarks mortgage lender is here with all the details on upcoming Thanksgiving events around the area. If you already live in the area or are considering relocating to the Lake of the Ozarks, the holidays are a fantastic time to enjoy the lake life. Check out all the awesome Thanksgiving events below:

THE LODGE OF FOUR SEASONS THANKSGIVING BUFFET

Nov 25, 2021

HK's Restaurant & Bar @ The Lodge of the Four Seasons

315 Four Seasons Dr

Lake Ozark, MO 65049

Phone: 573-365-8509

Hours of Operation:

11:00 AM - 3:00 PM

The Lodge of Four Seasons Thanksgiving Buffet

November 25th / 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM

HK's Restaurant & Bar @ The Lodge of the Four Seasons

573-365-8509 / Reservations Suggested


THANKSGIVING AT OLD KINDERHOOK

Nov 25, 2021

The Trophy Room at Old Kinderhook

678 Old Kinderhook Dr.

Camdenton, MO 65020

Phone: 5733173500

We know something you'll be thankful for... a Thanksgiving feast at The Trophy Room! Turkey day is fast approaching, so hurry and book your table for the Thanksgiving Buffet in advance online or by calling 573-317-3560.


THANKSGIVING BUFFET AT H. TOAD'S

Nov 25, 2021

H. Toad's at Camden on the Lake

2325 Bittersweet Rd.

Lake Ozark, MO 65049

Phone: 573-365-5620

Hours of Operation:

12 pm - 5 pm

Join H.Toad's for the most delicious Thanksgiving Buffet without any of the hard work! A wide menu with a little something for everyone makes for the perfect holiday. Call 573-365-5620 to reserve your spot today!


THANKSGIVING AT THE REGALIA HOTEL

Nov 25, 2021

The Regalia Hotel & Conference

250 Racquet Club Dr.

Lake of the Ozarks, MO 65049

Phone: 573-723-3000

The Annual Thanksgiving Buffet is back this year. On November 25th, 2021, The Regalia will be serving a feast! They hope to see you and your loved ones at this incredible tradition! A day to celebrate, a day to relax, a day to allow them to serve you. It’s never too early to book your reservations! There is also a children's menu available. Call today at (573) 723-3000 before the bookings fill up!

Now that you know what upcoming feasts can be found around the area, you're ready to make your plans for this special holiday. Team Lasson wants to know what is your favorite way to spend this holiday? We're spending time being thankful for our amazing clients whom we've had the honor of helping with their Lake of the Ozarks home loans over the years!

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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.

 

Friday, November 12, 2021

Top 5 Reasons to Retire at the Lake of the Ozarks

The Lake of the Ozarks is a top Midwest vacation destination, but it's also an amazing place to live! Many retirees choose this area to be their retirement destination. Our Lake of the Ozarks mortgage lender knows how fantastic life here is and we want to help you enjoy that way of life, too! Learn why you should retire at the Lake of the Ozarks below:

1. Great Entertainment Options

There are a ton of activities to enjoy at the Lake of the Ozarks! From golfing to shopping to dining to events, you'll find plenty of things you love to do in our area. The seasonality of the area also creates a unique environment where you can enjoy the hustle and bustle of the busy summer months with plenty of activities and then soak in the slow-paced winter months -- it's a great mix!


2. Variety of Housing Options

There are many housing options available in the area. Single family homes, condos, townhomes are just a few of the popular retirement housing options available in the area. There are both on and off-the-water housing options, as well! Find the perfect location with the right amenities and community for your unique situation.


3. Enjoyable Climate

Take advantage of all four seasons at the beautiful Lake of the Ozarks. The warm summer months, mild spring and fall, and cold winters offer a mix of climates that you can enjoy. The seasonal changes bring about gorgeous views around the area, as well!


4. Top Medical Facilities

Our area is home to a highly awarded hospital system. From emergency needs to routine check ups, you and your family can feel safe with your healthcare needs in the area. There are also other top facilities in surrounding communities. No matter what your health needs, you'll likely find a great solution in the area!


5. Breathtaking Natural Scenery

We can't leave the beautiful scenery off our list! It's one of the big draws of our area! No matter the time of year, the rolling Ozark hills boast stunning views all around the Lake of the Ozarks. Our lake makes for some spectacular natural views, as well!

What are you waiting for? Now's the time to start planning your retirement at the Lake of the Ozarks. Our Osage Beach mortgage lender is here to make this home purchasing process a breeze. Contact Team Lasson today to learn how you can best prepare to relocate to the area. Call (573) 746-7211 or visit our website at www.yourlakeloan.com for more information.


LIKE my Facebook Page, Follow 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.

 

Thursday, November 4, 2021

Home Buying Tips for First Time Buyers

Buying a home for the first time is a big step! Like many life changes, it can seem intimidating to purchase a home. As an experienced mortgage lender in Osage Beach, MO, we've assisted many first time home buyers at the Lake of the Ozarks. If you're thinking about getting a home loan at the Lake of the Ozarks, check out these helpful tips to get started on the right foot!

Save for a Down Payment

Before buying a home, it's important to set some money aside for a down payment. Most loans require some sort of upfront payment to show you are committed to purchasing the home. As a first time home buyer, there are some options that don't require a down payment. It all depends on your unique situation and our lender will be able to best advise you on the loan type that will fit your wants and needs. 


Get Pre-Approved

A pre-approval is a huge step in buying a home. This is where you present all of your statements and financial information to a lender to see what the loan company will lend you for a home. A letter of pre-approval is a great bargaining tool when it comes to making an offer on a home, as well. It shows that you've already taken the steps to make sure you have the financing available, and the home seller may be more likely to go with your offer based on your pre-approval status. 


Stick To Your Budget

It can be very tempting to look at a home that is outside your budget, especially in the current real estate market. Just don't do it! You'll likely fall in love with the home that is too expensive and then you'll always be comparing the homes in your price range to that property. At the end of the day, it's important to have a monthly payment you are comfortable with rather than to be pinching pennies for the next 30 years!


Avoid Major Purchases

A big purchase can temporarily ding your credit. Once you've been pre-approved, avoid major purchases. Push off buying that car, appliances for your new home, or other significant purchase until after you've closed on the home. If you do have a major purchase in your very near future, let your lender know this information upfront so they can be aware of potential changes and advise you on the best next steps through the home purchasing process!

It's best to be prepared for everything that may be thrown your way during the home buying process. As a first time home buyer, it's nearly impossible to know every possible situation that may arise. That's where our Lake of the Ozarks mortgage lender comes into play! We have a great deal of experience helping home buyers in the area. If you're ready to get started on your home buying journey, contact Team Lasson today! Call (573) 746-7211 or visit our website at www.yourlakeloan.com for more information.


LIKE my Facebook Page, Follow 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.