Home Inspection vs Home Appraisal

Buying a house at the Lake of the Ozarks is a big undertaking. A successful transaction requires the cooperation of several different parties: the buyers, the buyers' agent, the sellers, the sellers' agent, the mortgage lender, the title company, and more.

There are also several steps that must be completed before closing. Two vitally important steps are the home inspection and the home appraisal. While they serve very different purposes, some buyers get these two steps confused. This week, your real estate agents in Sunrise Beach are here to help you understand their differences.

Home Appraisal

The appraisal usually takes place before the inspection. To put it simply, the home appraisal is the process wherein an appraiser evaluates the house to determine its current market value. This is a critical part of the home buying process, because lenders typically will not authorize loan amounts greater than the official appraisal value of the home. As the buyer, you will generally be responsible for covering the cost of the home appraisal.

Your appraisal value will be the sum of several different factors, such as the location, the local real estate market, the number of rooms, the square footage, the quality of the materials and construction used, and the overall condition of the property. While houses rarely sell for the exact appraisal amount, the appraisal can serve as a valuable guideline for both the buyers and the lender.

Home Inspection

The home inspection typically happens a little bit later in the process, but it is still absolutely essential. During this process, a certified home inspector will critically evaluate the entire property to determine its condition. A proper home inspection is incredibly thorough, encompassing the foundation, roof, HVAC system, deck, electrical system, plumbing system, fireplaces, insulation and ventilation, and more. As with the home appraisal, the buyer is generally responsible for paying for the home inspection.

The home inspection can be a valuable eye-opener for the buyer. In many cases, we recommend that our buyers include a "contingent upon inspection" clause in their initial offer. This allows them to change or cancel their initial offer depending on the information revealed in the home inspection. If the inspection reveals that some aspect of the property is in need of major repair, the the cost of the repair may be negotiated into the contract, or the buyer may be able to back out entirely.

Eagle's Nest Realty Is Here To Guide You

There are a lot of things to consider when choosing your new home in Sunrise Beach MO. The team at Eagle's Nest Realty will be here to guide you along every step of the way, helping you evaluate each new piece of information to make smart, well-informed decisions. Visit our website to learn more about our real estate services at the Lake of the Ozarks!

Eagle's Nest Realty, Inc.                                               Like Us On Facebook

Bill & Sky Johnson                                                             Follow Us On Twitter

33431 Evanston Road                                                          Find Us On LinkedIn

Sunrise Beach, MO  65079                                                     +1 Us On Google+

3 Tips To Make Your Home More Pet-Friendly

When you're house hunting at the Lake of the Ozarks, the features you look for will vary depending on with whom you plan to share your home. If you have young children, for example, you may look for a house with easy access to playgrounds or swimming pools. If someone in your family is disabled, you may look for a single-level home without any stairs. If you have pets, you will have to look for an entirely different set of accommodations.

For many of us, our pets are integral parts of our families. If you plan to share your home with furry family members, there are several things you can/should do to make your home more pet-friendly. Here are a couple of tips from your friends at Eagle's Nest Realty.

3 Tips To Make Your Home More Pet-Friendly

1. Research Which Types Of Houseplants Are Safe
Houseplants serve many great purposes, such as beautifying our homes and oxygenating the air we breathe. However, some types of common houseplants can be toxic to cats and/or dogs if ingested. Do your research on each new type of houseplant before bringing it into your home.

2. Tuck Trash Cans Out Of Reach
Almost everyone knows at least one person (if not multiple people) whose dogs have gotten into their trash cans. This is frustrating for you because it almost always results in a giant mess, and it's also dangerous for your dogs because human trash cans typically contain waste that is toxic or dangerous. For example, our bathroom trash cans may contain:

• Makeup containers
• Medication bottles
• Razor blades

Our kitchen trash cans may contain:

• Spoiled food
• Food that is toxic to dogs and cats (such as garlic, fruit, tomatoes, chocolate, etc)
• Plastic bags

These examples are just a few of the items that can prove dangerous or even deadly to your pet if ingested. For everyone's safety, it's best to use lidded trash cans or to keep your trash cans tucked away in the closet or cabinet under the sink.

3. Keep Electrical Cords And Wiring Out Of Reach

It's time to take a critical look at the cords and electrical wires that are connected to your devices. While they may not be prominently visible, your curious dog or cat may find them and decide they look like fun, chewable toys. This is bad for both you and your pet, so it's bet to make sure all of your cords are tucked out of reach.

Looking For A New Home? Eagle's Nest Realty Can Help!
If you're in the market for a new home, we hope you'll reach out to our real estate agents in Sunrise Beach MO. After listening to your wants and needs, we will search the available homes for sale at the Lake of the Ozarks to help you identify which properties might be right for you. We promise to be there for you along every step of the process, from the initial home search to the final negotiations. Visit our website to learn more about how we may be able to help you!

Eagle's Nest Realty, Inc.                                               Like Us On Facebook

Bill & Sky Johnson                                                             Follow Us On Twitter

33431 Evanston Road                                                          Find Us On LinkedIn

Sunrise Beach, MO  65079                                                     +1 Us On Google+

NEW LISTING! Lakefront Home in Sunrise Beach

Welcome to the Lake Lifestyle! We want to take this opportunity to showcase one of our new listings at the Lake of the Ozarks. This gorgeous waterfront home in Sunrise Beach MO has been beautifully maintained and is the perfect full-time or part-time destination for anyone thinking about relocating to the Lake of the Ozarks. You're going to love this home!

Quiet Lakefront Living

Comfortably situated on a peaceful point, this home offers a 20 ft lakefront lot with its own private dock. The view speaks for itself! Perfect for a growing family or a retired couple, this home is sure to appeal to everyone. Here's a quick look at the home's basic features:

• 2,400 square feet
• 2 bedrooms
• 2 bathrooms
• Over half an acre of property
• Natural gas heat
• Private well and septic system
• 33104 Morning View Drive, Sunrise Beach MO 65079

Beautifully Maintained

The home was built between 1960 and 1969, but the home has been magnificently maintained and is still in great condition. The level of care extends to the exterior, featuring a groomed yard and beautiful gardens. With so many great features, this home is sure to have something everyone loves!

• Wood burning fireplace upstairs
• Gas fireplace downstairs
• Hot tub
• Updated kitchen
• Attached garage AND detached garage
• 20 x 30 workshop
• BONUS room downstairs perfect for crafts or a cozy library

Call Eagle's Nest TODAY To Schedule A Showing!

Despite its great locations and abundant amenities, this home is priced at just $209,000. At such an incredible price, it probably won't stay on the market for long! Don't miss out on your chance to own this beautiful lakefront home at the Lake of the Ozarks - call Eagle's Nest Realty (877) 452-5338 to schedule your private showing today!

Eagle's Nest Realty, Inc.                                               Like Us On Facebook

Bill & Sky Johnson                                                             Follow Us On Twitter

33431 Evanston Road                                                          Find Us On LinkedIn

Sunrise Beach, MO  65079                                                     +1 Us On Google+

4 Winter Home Hunting Hints

Think you have to wait until the weather warms up to begin searching for your new home at the Lake of the Ozarks? Think again. Today's savvy buyers are realizing that home hunting in the winter actually has some major advantages. For example:

• You have fewer other buyers to compete against.
• Sellers who list their homes during the winter months are generally more motivated to sell as quickly as possible.
• Because there aren't any as many buyers competing for homes, home prices are typically lower.

If you have been thinking about buying a house at the Lake of the Ozarks, now is a great time to begin your search. Eagle's Nest Realty is here to help with these tried-and-true hints for house hunting in the winter.

Winter Home Hunting Tips

1. Check For Proper Insulation

Poor insulation can lead to costly energy bills. Fortunately, house hunting in the winter can offer valuable insight into your home's insulation situation. If there is snow on the ground, carefully look at the roof to determine if the snow there is melting faster than the snow on the ground. If the snow melts off of the roof more quickly, it may be a sign of poor attic insulation (which can ring up higher energy bills).

2. Evaluate The Curb Appeal

A snowy wonderland is a wonderful sight, but a drab, gray landscape is less than appealing. Take the time to carefully evaluate each home's outward appeal. If you find one you like in the winter, chances are you will absolutely love the way it looks when the weather warms up and everything turns green again.

3. Ask For Current Utility Information.

People who buy in the summer are sometimes blindsided by the first winter electric bill, but buying in the winter will protect you from that unpleasant surprise. Don't be afraid to ask your Lake of the Ozarks real estate agent to find out how much the current owners are paying to heat their home. You don't want to be caught off-guard by your first electric bill after moving in!

4. Evaluate The Area

With all the leaves on the trees out of the way, you'll be able to identify any privacy issues your prospective home may have and how well the neighbors care for their homes. Do the neighboring properties fall into a state of disrepair in the winter months? Are the roads plowed frequently? You'll be glad to have this type of information before making your purchase.

Buying This Winter? We Can Help!

If you are thinking about buying a house this winter, contact our experienced real estate team in Sunrise Beach MO. With an in-depth understanding of the Lake Area and real estate practices, we have the knowledge you need to make your home search a success. Contact us for more information!

Eagle's Nest Realty, Inc.                                               Like Us On Facebook

Bill & Sky Johnson                                                             Follow Us On Twitter

33431 Evanston Road                                                          Find Us On LinkedIn

Sunrise Beach, MO  65079                                                     +1 Us On Google+

New Year, New Home!

What are your plans for 2016? Are you hoping to find a new career? Start a family? Travel to a foreign land? No matter what your dreams are, Eagle's Nest Realty wishes you all the best in your endeavors. If you are thinking about finding a new home at the Lake of the Ozarks in 2016, our real estate agent in Sunrise Beach MO would be honored to help you turn that dream into a reality!

New Year, New Home!

The start of a new calendar year is the perfect opportunity to begin a new chapter in your life. If your needs have changed and your current home or apartment no longer fits your lifestyle, it's time to consider buying a new home. There are many different reasons why buying a new house at the Lake of the Ozarks might be a great option, such as...

• Finding a bigger home to accommodate your growing family.
• Finding a smaller home to adjust to your "empty nest."
• Finding a home that is closer to your work.
• Finding a home that is on/off the water as a way to shake things up.
• Finding a home that is on the other side of the country to start a new adventure.

No matter what your reasons are for moving to a new home, Eagle's Nest Realty is here to help you turn that dream into a reality.

Find Your Dream Home At The Lake!

The Lake of the Ozarks is a wonderful place to live, no matter what age you are. Osage Beach and Lake Ozark residents can enjoy easy access to shopping and attractions, and those who live in Camdenton and Sunrise Beach can enjoy quiet serenity that cannot be found anywhere else. No matter what you're looking for, we're sure to be able to help you find your dream home at the Lake of the Ozarks! 

Here are just a few examples of some of the great properties we currently have for sale:

33439 Evanston Road , Sunrise Beach MO ~ $139,900

This duplex has 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom in each unit, plus an extra bonus room that can be used as another bedroom or game room. The building can easily be converted into a 3-4 bedroom home, or you can keep it as a duplex and rent out one/both sides for some additional income. 

84 Hendrix Haven, Sunrise Beach MO ~ $499,000

This waterfront home has everything you could possibly want - an incredible view, a quiet location at the end of a cul-de-sac, 130 feet of lakefront, large 2-well dock, martini deck with water slide, and a gentle, level lot. Located at the 10 MM. Recently reduced by $50,000!

30358 Gray Wolf Drive, Gravois Mill MO ~ $106,000

Quaint, cozy, and very homey. This waterfront home features a dock, lift, and martini deck - the perfect location for fishing and enjoying everything the Lake of the Ozarks has to offer. Don't forget about the screened porch overlooking the water!

Contact Eagle's Nest Realty To Schedule A Showing!

2016 is almost here, and your new home is waiting for you! Interest rates are still low, but they are on the rise. Contact our real estate team at the Lake of the Ozarks to find your home today! 

Eagle's Nest Realty, Inc.                                               Like Us On Facebook

Bill & Sky Johnson                                                             Follow Us On Twitter

33431 Evanston Road                                                          Find Us On LinkedIn

Sunrise Beach, MO  65079                                                     +1 Us On Google+

5 Tips To Sell Your Home In The Winter

Though this month has been unusually warm, cold winter weather is bound to hit soon. When it does, will you be ready to sell your home at the Lake of the Ozarks in spite of the potential for snow, ice, and frigid winds? Eagle's Nest Realty is here to help you sell your home quickly no matter what the conditions are like outside. Here are a few tips and considerations to help you get started on the right track.

Present Your Home As A Warm, Cozy Refuge

More than any other season, this is the time of year when most people want to snuggle into their homes tucked away from the cold weather. If people are out looking at available homes for sale at the Lake of the Ozarks, they're probably serious about buying a home in the very near future. This is good news for you, but it's important to make sure your home will appeal to these buyers during this time of year.

5 Tips To Sell Your House In The Wintertime

Whether this is your first or your tenth time selling your house, our real estate agent at the Lake of the Ozarks is here to help you simplify the process. Here are a few things you can do to make your home more appealing during the cold winter months.

1. Use The Season To Your Advantage
If you stage it correctly, your home can exude an irresistible romantic appeal in the wintertime. Remember, people want to feel comfortable and cozy in their new homes; if you stage your home as a warm refuge from the cold winter weather, buyers are more likely to be drawn to your home. Here are a few tips to get started:

• If you have a gas or electric fireplace, turn it on before showings.
• Fill vases with wintry floral displays (dark reds, whites, pine/cedar sprigs, etc).
• Stage your bedroom with a thick bedspread and luxurious pillows.
• Accent your couch, armchairs, and other furniture with soft, cozy throws.
• Keep your thermostat set to 70 or 71°.

2. Clear Snow And Ice From Your Driveway, Porch, And Walkways

There's something incredibly picturesque about a home blanketed in snow, but unfortunately snow and ice can also be incredibly treacherous. If your home is currently on the market, it is more important than ever to keep your driveway, front porch, and any outdoor walkways clear. Shovel the snow out of the way as soon as possible, and use salt or deicer to prevent your walkways from becoming too slick.

3. Keep Things Light

No matter what time of year it is, bright homes tend to sell more quickly. With the limited daylight hours in winter, however, you'll have to work harder to keep your home bright and welcoming. Turn on all the overhead lights, floor lamps, and table lamps. You may need to consider adding a few more lamps to accent any darker areas.

4. Emphasize Conveniences

During the winter months, buyers are likely to be especially conscious of the potential inconveniences winter weather can bring. If your home offers any unique advantages in the winter months (such as being close enough to the school that the kids don't have to wait outside in the cold, or being located on a street that gets plowed frequently), make sure your agent emphasizes these advantages to every buyer. 

5. Illuminate The Exterior

With such limited daylight, it's important to make sure your home has great curb appeal even in the dark. In addition to your front porch lights, consider installing miniature lanterns or other small lights to line your driveway or walkway to your front door. You can never know when a potential buyer will drive past your house, so it's important to make sure your exterior lights are on every single evening. Putting your lights on a timer so they turn on and off automatically may make this easier.

Eagle's Nest Realty Is Here For You!

If you're thinking about selling your house at the Lake of the Ozarks this winter, contact Eagle's Nest Realty, Inc. would be honored to help you make it happen! Visit our website at EaglesNestRealty.net to learn more about selling at the Lake and how we can help make the process easier. If you have any questions, feel free to give us a call at (877) 452-5338.

Eagle's Nest Realty, Inc.                                               Like Us On Facebook

Bill & Sky Johnson                                                             Follow Us On Twitter

33431 Evanston Road                                                          Find Us On LinkedIn

Sunrise Beach, MO  65079                                                     +1 Us On Google+

Laurie's Enchanted Village Of Lights

The holiday season is a magical time of the year no matter where you live, but the Lake of the Ozarks truly comes alive during Christmastime. There are countless family activities held every year all over the Lake during the holidays. This week, Eagle's Nest Realty wanted to make sure you and your families had the chance to enjoy one of the Lake Area's most magical Christmas attractions - the Enchanted Village of Lights!

Enchanted Village Of Lights
The Fairgrounds in Laurie, MO

There are a total of four holiday light displays at the Lake of the Ozarks, but the Laurie's Enchanted Village Of Lights is by far the biggest. In fact, they're working on becoming the largest drive-through holiday lights event in Mid-Missouri! 

They owe their success to the many local businesses and community organizations that support the holiday park by sponsoring special exhibits. Families who have lost a loved one also support the park by sponsoring "Memorial Boards." With varying levels of sponsorships and participation opportunities, everyone can get involved in the holiday fun.


Free Holiday Fun For Families Of All Ages

The best part about this holiday spectacle is that admission is free to everyone. Donations are accepted, but the city of Laurie does not charge anything for families to drive through their holiday park. 

The park is open every weeknight from 5:00 - 9:00 PM and every weekend from 5:00 - 10:00 PM, through January 2nd, 2016. The Laurie Fairgrounds are located at:
269 Fairgrounds Drive
Laurie, MO 65037

Happy Holidays From Eagle's Nest Realty!

Can you believe that Christmas is barely over a week away? The team at Eagle's Nest Realty, Inc. wants to take this opportunity to wish you and yours a very wonderful holiday season. If you are looking for a new house at the Lake of the Ozarks in the coming year, remember our real estate agents in Sunrise Beach, MO. We would be honored to work with you.

Eagle's Nest Realty, Inc.                                               Like Us On Facebook

Bill & Sky Johnson                                                             Follow Us On Twitter

33431 Evanston Road                                                          Find Us On LinkedIn

Sunrise Beach, MO  65079                                                     +1 Us On Google+