Hire an Expert or Go DIY
Published June 19, 2013 | 
Do-it-yourself (DIY) projects are all the rage. Lowes offers a different DIY project for the home every weekend. When it comes to selling your Lake of the Ozarks home, should you hire an expert or go DIY?
Lake of the Ozarks Real Estate Experts
Most people want to save money wherever they can. That’s why DIY has become so popular. However, when it comes to handling your Lake of the Ozarks real estate transactions, For Sale By Owner (FSBO) may actually cost you money in the end. A real estate professional is out in the field every day. They see how the market is trending, they know what homes are selling for, they are aware of what people in the area are looking for in a Lake of the Ozarks home. They have been trained in handling the mounds of paperwork involved. They know which inspections are needed and what the deadlines for different aspects of your real estate transaction are so nothing gets missed.
Should You Hire An Expert or Go DIY?
A Lake of the Ozarks real estate expert acts as your manager, advertising agent, tour guide (to show prospective buyers your home), negotiator and much, much more. Keep in mind that this is their job. This is what they devote their entire day to. When going the FSBO route, you will have to pile on countless extra hours to your already busy workload, juggling family time with work time with “sell your home” time. And, unless you have an incredibly tight grasp on what your local Lake of the Ozarks market is doing right now, you may actually end up getting less for your home than an expert negotiator could get you. That makes the question of whether you should hire an expert or go DIY rather moot, doesn’t it?
DIY projects can save you money, depending on what kind they are. If you’re handy with a hammer, you could build a bookshelf or a headboard for your bed. Do you have a flare for color? Paint a room. But, when it comes to selling your Lake of the Ozarks home, you need to ask yourself whether you should hire an expert or go DIY with a FSBO. You will find that hiring an expert comes with many more perks and a lot less headaches than going at it alone. When you’re ready to sell your Lake of the Ozarks home, please give us a call.
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Lake of the Ozarks Interest Rates
Published June 5, 2013 | 
If you’re interested in purchasing a home in the beautiful Lake of the Ozarks region, you should start looking now. Real estate experts predict that prices will rise as inventory becomes more scarce, tilting the market more to the seller’s favor. Interest rates for Lake of the Ozarks homes are beginning to creep up as well.
According to the latest figures from Bankrate.com (as of 5/29/2013), a 30 year fixed rate mortgage (FRM) is 3.99%. That’s the highest it’s been in the last 11 weeks. A 15 year FRM is 3.21% while the 5/1 adjustable rate mortgage (ARM) is 2.97%. These are also at their highest levels over the last 11 weeks. This marks the fourth week in a row that both FRMs and the 5/1 ARM have increased. The 30 year jumbo loan, on the other hand, had been steadily hovering around 4% until this week, when it jumped to 4.2%.
It’s important to keep these increases in perspective. While it’s true that the rates are steadily increasing, they are still at incredibly low levels, making a Lake of the Ozarks home purchase much more affordable than a few years ago. If you want to own a piece of the American dream, now is the time to start looking. There are several homes available in the area and the interest rates on Lake of the Ozarks homes won’t remain at these levels forever. Contact us when you’re ready to start looking.
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Lake of the Ozarks Garden Walk Tour
Published May 29, 2013 | 
Do you love gardening or are you just a fan of flowers? The Lake Area Master Gardeners want to encourage the horticulturist in all of us. That’s why they are hosting their 7th Annual Lake of the Ozarks Garden Walk Tour this Saturday, June 1st, 2013 at the Willmore Lodge.
From 9am to 2pm, Lake Area Master Gardeners guides will take you on a walking tour of the beautiful gardens in the area. Not only do we have to find a way to make beauty sprout from rocky clay here in the Lake of the Ozarks region, but we also have to contend with the local deer and other critters that occasionally wander into populated areas. This tour will show you how other gardening enthusiasts have found a creative way to battle these issues. You’re sure to get some great ideas for your own home garden. Local Lake of the Ozarks artists will be set up throughout the tour, putting their visions on canvas.
Tickets are on sale now at Central Bank and First National Bank locations throughout the Lake of the Ozarks region. They are just $10 each. Bring your questions and your walking shoes to the Willmore Lodge in Lake Ozark this Saturday for the Lake of the Ozarks Garden Walk Tour. Take the time to enjoy the bounty that Mother Nature has provided our community.
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Lake of the Ozarks Town and Country Market
Published April 17, 2013 | 
We are blessed here in the Lake of the Ozarks/Truman Lake area to be surrounded by gorgeous trees and beautiful lakes. We have a unique insight into the importance nature has in our lives. As Americans become more environmentally aware, they are turning to local businesses, farmers and artisans for goods and services on a regular basis. Not only does this reduce our dependence on fossil fuels by minimizing the transportation of goods, but it also boosts the local economy. One way to support local businesses is by patronizing farmer’s markets. Thankfully, there is a new Lake of the Ozarks Town and Country Market coming soon.
Beginning next Saturday, April 27th, the Camden County Museum will be hosting a new Town and Country Market on the fourth Saturday of the month from 9am to 4pm. You will be able to get the freshest produce around from local Lake of the Ozarks farmers. Bring home fresh baked goodies made by local bakers. You can even pick up some unique jewelry, clothing and other items made by local artisans. Booth space is available. For anyone interested in selling their items at the market, please contact Yetta at (573) 280-1958.
If you love shopping at a farmer’s market, you’re in luck. The new Lake of the Ozarks Town and Country Market is set to take place once a month until August, with the first one taking place next Saturday, April 27th, 2013. After you’re done picking up some goodies at the market, take a tour of the Camden County Schoolhouse Museum to learn about our area’s rich history. Make a day of it!
FEATURED LAKE OF THE OZARK HOME OF THE WEEK
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2013 Lake of the Ozarks Dogwood Festival
Published April 10, 2013 | 
The flowering dogwood is the official state tree of Missouri. This wide tree produces beautiful little white flowers that eventually turn into small groups of bright red fruit that are a favorite of local birds. In honor of our state tree, the Camdenton Area Chamber of Commerce throws a Lake of the Ozarks Dogwood Festival every year. This year marks the 63rd year in a row that they have done so.
The 2013 Lake of the Ozarks Dogwood Festival takes place April 18th-21st in the City of Camdenton. Included in the festivities are carnival rides and games, a parade, a fish fry, a golf tournament, live entertainment, crafts and plenty of food. Of course, no Lake of the Ozarks festival would be complete without a beauty pageant. There will be a Little Mr and Miss Contest, Jr Miss Contest, Teen Miss Contest and Miss Dogwood. Enter your favorite pooch in the festival’s Dog Contest. Prizes will be awarded for cutest and ugliest dog-testant. All activities take place in and around Camdenton and are free to attend. For a complete schedule of times and places, please click here.
Life in the Twin Lakes area offers plenty of year round fun. Bring the family to the 2013 Lake of the Ozarks Dogwood Festival anytime during April 18-21. Celebrate the beauty of our state tree as well as the beauty of our great community.
FEATURED LAKE OF THE OZARKS HOME OF THE WEEK
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Warsaw Garage Sale and Clean Up
Published April 3, 2013 | 
Spring is when Lake of the Ozarks shakes off its winter doldrums and really shines. Many people feel the urge to clear out the clutter in their homes. If you are in a spring cleaning mood, why not make a little money in the process? Join in on the Warsaw city-wide garage sale and clean up this month.
The Warsaw Chamber of Commerce is encouraging its citizens to take advantage of our beautiful weather to sell their old clothing, books, furniture and anything else they don’t use anymore. The city sponsored garage sale is scheduled to take place April 25th through the 28th. All participants who sign up for the garage sale will be mentioned in the Chamber’s promotion of the event. This advertisement will help increase the amount of foot traffic vying for your “treasures” an potentially increase your profits.
The deadline to be included on the City of Warsaw‘s list of garage sale is Friday, April 19, 2013. A city-wide clean up is scheduled for Tuesday, April 30th. To find out more about both the Warsaw city-wide garage sale and the clean up, please call the City of Warsaw offices at (660) 438-5522. Spring’s the perfect time to get rid of the old and make way for the new.
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How Your Real Estate Decisions Affect Your Taxes
Published March 26, 2013 | 
Tax Day is less than three weeks away. Lake of the Ozarks homeowners are entitled to certain tax breaks that renters are not. Most people are aware of the deductions they are entitled to for mortgage interest and property taxes. These are just the tip of the iceberg. On the flip side, some of the real estate moves you make can have a detrimental effect on your financial situation at tax time. It’s good to know what to look out for when it comes to owning a Lake of the Ozarks home.
Thanks to the incredibly low interest rates we have seen over the last couple of years (average 3.54% for 30 year fixed-rate mortgage, 2.72% for 15 year fixed rate and 2.63% for adjustable rate mortgage, as of the writing of this post), Lake of the Ozarks homeowners who purchased their properties several years ago are jumping on the refinancing bandwagon. This is a great thing to do to lower your monthly payment. However, you also need to be aware that this will decrease your mortgage interest deduction as well. It’s important to discuss this with your tax professional so they can help you determine the best course of action to take to avoid a huge shock when it comes tax time next year.
Some Lake of the Ozarks homeowners use their homes as vacation properties. When they aren’t occupying the property, some rent it out. There are also full-time residents who rent out rooms in their homes for a variety of reasons. Whether it’s a short time or a full-time rental property, the money a homeowner receives from this arrangement is considered income and is subject to income tax laws on both the federal and state levels.
People are becoming more conscious of how their day-to-day lives effect the environment. The demand for eco-friendly homes is on the rise across the nation. Smart Lake of the Ozarks homeowners realize that upgrading their current property to become more energy efficient will increase their bottom line in the future. Check with EnergySavvy.com to see what rebates and credits are available to Warsaw homeowners who make these changes. Always keep receipts of any money spent on all remodeling efforts (whether energy efficient or otherwise) until after you have sold your home.
Homeownership isn’t for everyone. Renting is perfectly fine for those who are saving up money to buy a home, in school and not sure of where they will be living afterwards or are only in town for the short term. However, if you have the money to invest in a Lake of the Ozarks home and are waiting for the market to “hit bottom”, you need to stop waiting and start looking. With the tax breaks given to homeowners, owning a home can oftentimes cost the same as or even less than renting.
Always consult your tax professional before making any real estate move to see how it will impact your tax situation. Knowing how your real estate decisions affect your taxes can help you make an informed choice and avoid “surprises” come tax time. When you are ready to look for your perfect Lake of the Ozarks home, just let us know. We’ll be happy to show you around!
FEATURED LAKE OF THE OZARKS HOME OF THE WEEK
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Lake of the Ozarks New Year’s Eve
Published December 26, 2012 | 
We certainly hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas with friends and family. Now it’s time to think about what you’re doing to usher in the new year. If you haven’t made any concrete plans yet, Lake of the Ozarks has plenty of New Year’s Eve celebrations to choose from.
New Year’s Eve Gala – Captain Ron’s in Sunrise Beach. Reservations are required. For more info and to make your reservations, please call (573) 374-5852.
New Year’s at HK’s – Four Seasons Resort, Lake Ozark beginning at 8:30pm. There are two options: with or without lodging. The overnight package includes dinner for two at the resort’s HK restaurant, midnight champagne toast, evening accommodations, two cocktails throughout the evening and a breakfast buffet the following morning. If you don’t want to stay overnight, you can still enjoy dinner at HK’s as well as a champagne toast at midnight. For prices and reservations, please call (573) 365-3000.
New Year’s Eve at Mist Lounge – Mist Lounge, Lodge of the Four Seasons, Lake Ozark, beginning at 8:30pm. For New Year’s Eve only, there will be no cover charge. Live entertainment is scheduled throughout the evening. For more info and to find out prices, please call (573) 365-3000.
New Year’s at Tan-Tar-A Resort – Osage Beach. The resort is offering two specials for the evening: Family Lodging and Couples Lodging. Both packages include dinner, party favors, prizes and more. The family package includes waterpark tickets. Rock-n-roll band SH-BOOM will be performing live music from the 50s, 60s and 70s in the Grand Ballroom. For more info, please call (800) 826-8271.
New Year’s at Camden on the Lake – Lake Ozark. Hotel guests get to party until 3am. Specials include Two Buck Drunk and couples packages starting at $119. For more info, please call (888) 365-5620.
Ring in the new year at one of these fun Lake of the Ozarks New Year’s Eve parties. Whatever you choose to do, stay safe and party sanely. Always have a designated driver or make sure you call a cab to get home safely. Happy New Year!
FEATURED LAKE OF THE OZARKS HOME OF THE WEEK
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Lake of the Ozarks Christmas Toy Drive
Published November 21, 2012 | 
Tomorrow’s Thanksgiving. You’ll probably be sitting in front of a feast with other members of your family, giving thanks for all the blessings you have had bestowed upon you throughout this last year. It’s a great time to give others reason to give “thanks” as well. You can do that by participating in the Lake of the Ozarks Christmas Toy Drive.
All you have to do is bring a new, unwrapped children’s toy to the Dogwood Hill Golf Resort anytime between now and December 17th. For your generous donation, the golf resort will give you the discounted golf rate of $15 for a round of 18 holes of golf. The $15 + tax includes a riding cart for the day.
For more information on the Lake of the Ozarks Christmas Toy Drive, please contact the Dogwood Hills Golf Resort at (573) 348-3153 or send them an email. Save money on a day of golfing at one of the finest resorts in the Twin Lakes area and put a smile on a child’s face this Christmas. Bring a new, unwrapped gift to the Dogwood Hills Golf Resort before December 17th. You’ll be so happy you did.
FEATURED LAKE OF THE OZARK HOME OF THE WEEK
For more information on this lake home and others in the area, click here.
Lake of the Ozarks’ Old Tyme Apple Festival
Published September 26, 2012 | 
Mark your calendars, folks! It’s almost time for one of the area’s largest events…Lake of the Ozarks’ Old Tyme Apple Festival in Versailles, MO. More than 30,000 visitors come to downtown Versailles every year just for the festival. The theme of this year’s apple festival is Jamaican Vacation.
Festivities actually begin on Friday, October 5th, with the Apple Darlin’ and Apple Dumplin’ contest. Only residents of Morgan County ages 3-4 will be competing. A fiddler contest will be held on Saturday at 1pm at the Versailles Royal Theatre. Contestants will compete in three age divisions: Junior (11-16 years old), Open (16+ years old) and Esquire (56+ years old). Please click here to download an entry form. Old fashioned street festival activities will begin at 9am on Saturday for free, with a special Lake of the Ozarks’ Apple Festival Parade at 10am. There will be plenty of food, vendor booths selling arts and crafts, live music and even a car/motorcycle show throughout the day.
For more info on the Lake of the Ozarks’ Old Tyme Apple Festival in Versailles, please call (573) 378-4401. This free event is pure fun for the entire family!
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