My New Blog

    If you are retiring, or simply considering relocating, then check out our corner of the world SW Missouri.  Newton, Jasper, and McDonald Counties.

    Affordable home prices, ideal location, recreation opportunities, and only minutes from Arkansas, Oklahoma and Kansas. 

How many Bald Eagles can you see in this picture?  This picture was taken on January 30, 2012 in Newton County, Missouri.  On a Sunday afternoon while driving from Neosho, Missouri to Exeter, Missouri, we counted over 25 Bald Eagles .  The answer to the question,"How many Bald Eagles in this picture" is 5.  If you are looking for an excellent place to live then check out our corner of the world. 

Congratulations to Charles Burt Homefinders top producers for 2011. Melissa Gibbens, GRI, Broker, Lou Ann Cook, GRI, Broker, Ramona Lannon, GRI, CRS,  and Angie Watts. 

   DREAM OF OWNING A LOG HOME    

    I have had two relatives who have owned log homes.  I must admit owning one has been a dream of mine, but I have yet to purchase one. There is something special about a log home, great atmosphere, lots of character, super quiet, very relaxing and comfortable. 

    As a Broker/Manager, and professional Realtor, I have often seen a persons dream home turn into their worse nightmare, simply because they did not do enough research before building their dream home.

    One of the major problems owners and buyers of log homes face is getting an appraisal.  This can really be a problem with certain locations in the United States.  Some areas simply do not have enough log homes sold to satisfy lenders requirements for comparable values.  This normally becomes an issue when a person decides to sell their home.    

    Constructing a log home can range in price from $95 to $110 per square foot.  In certain areas I have seen prices go up to $125 per square foot.  Lenders like to see comparable home prices that have sold within the last six months or less in the area they are providing a mortgage.  If you have a unique home style for your area, then obtaining comparable sold prices can be extremely difficult.

    There are several great websites covering log homes, constructions, styles and features of log designs.  Do your research, as you would with any style home and you will encounter fewer surprises when the time comes for selling your home or obtaining financing.

REAL ESTATE'S NUMBER ONE HURDLE

    No! It is not interest rates!  They are some of the lowest we have seen since the 1960's

    No!  It is not home prices!   Home prices are some of the lowest we have seen in years!

    No!  It is not the lack of available homes for sale!  Our inventory is filled with homes in all price ranges!

    The number one hurdle we face as Realtors is educating our buyers and sellers. 

    Because of the negative based reporting now utilized by various news medias, the public is getting a distorted view of the housing market.   Combine this negative based news reporting, with a lack of faith in our current federal government, you've just created the number one hurdle faced by Realtors.

     If you are wanting to purchase a home whether it is for investment as a rental or income property, or your primary residence.  You will not find market conditions more favorable than they are right now!

    Great news for anyone wanting to purchase a home in Joplin, Missouri.  Because of the May 22, 2011 tornado that struck Joplin, Missouri.  The government has authorized the mortgage lenders to use the RD Loans for Joplin.

    This is a great opportunity for anyone seeking a loan for homes in Joplin.  It will only last until the later part of September 2012 or until money available is allocated.  Check out RD (Rural Development Loans)  lots of benefit to borrowers.

For example you can get a 100% loan, RD does not have any PMI (Private Mortgage Insurance) which really saves the borrower money.  For detailed information call Margo Phepls at First Home Mortgage 417-624-8778 or 417-782-1234