Home Maintenance Checklist for Winter

With winter officially upon us, it is time to ensure your home is ready to make it through the cooler months and weather that we will soon experience. Although the weather has not been too bad thus far into the year, snow storms and frigid temperatures will soon be upon us. To take care of your home at the Lake of the Ozarks, it is important to take a few steps to maintain it for the winter months. Below you can find a winter maintenance checklist, provided by your trusted real estate agent in Lake Ozark, Missouri.

Remove Roof & Gutter Debris

Take time to clean out your gutters and any other nuts, twigs, or leaves from your roof. Removing debris can improve draining as snow gathers on your roof and melts.

Look at the Trees

Look up around your home for signs of damaged trees or limbs near your home. An ice or snow storm can put additional weight on these branches, causing them to break. If you home is under one of these limbs, your roof can be damaged by it falling. If you notice a potential tree issue around your home, have a professional cut down the limb or tree.

Clean the Fireplace

Before lighting your fireplace, ensure the chimney is clear of all debris and cleaned out for the winter. Debris build up can become flammable and cause a fire inside your home.

Unhook Garden Hoses

If you have not already done so, ensure your outdoor garden hoses are removed from the faucets. This can help prevent a pipe from freezing, causing major water damage to your home.

Reverse Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans should rotate clockwise during the winter months. This helps to disperse warm air from the furnace throughout the room. A reverse switch can be found on the fan motor for an easy switch in the direction the fan turns.

Prepare the Entryway

With snow, dirt, and salt being tracked into your home, it is a good idea to protect your entryway before a big snow storm hits the area. The grime tracked in on shoes can damage the tile, wood, or carpet in your doorway. If you have a hard surface in your entryway, it is a good idea to keep plenty of rugs down for optimum traction for wet and slick shoes.

Scoop the Snow

Even if there is no snow in the immediate forecast, prepare your home by purchasing ice melt and having your snow shovel handy. Often times, the weather in Missouri is unpredictable and a storm can show up with little to no warning. Be prepared to keep your driveway and/or sidewalk scooped off this winter.

Inspect Windows & Doors

Take a look at the doors and windows around your home for any air leaks. If cold air is entering your home, the openings need weather stripping or calk added to seal the opening. This can help keep the inside of your home warm this winter, by keeping the cold air outside.

Now that you have the winter maintenance check list for your home, you are ready to mark these tasks off your list! From snow storms to ice, winter brings about cold temperature and freezing precipitation. Take some time to protect and prevent your home from experiencing damage during the winter months. You will be thankful you took some of these precautionary measures to get your home ready for the winter weather. Whether you plan to stay in your home for years to come or wish to sell your home at the Lake of the Ozarks soon, it is important to maintain your house, especially during the winter months.

Susan Spica
Professional REALTOR®

BerkShire Hathaway HomeServices
101 Crossings West, Ste. 202
Lake Ozark, MO 65049

Office: (573) 365-6868
Susan's Cell: (573) 280-0484

5 Tips for a Safe Holiday Gathering

With Christmas less than a week away, it is time to start preparing your house for upcoming get togethers with family and friends. Whether your guests frequent your home often or only a few times a year, it is important to create a safe environment for your holiday gathering. Your trusted real estate agent in Lake Ozark, Missouri is here to help you get ready for your upcoming event. Provided below are some helpful tips for keeping safety in mind with a number of guests in your house this holiday season.

1) Lighten it up

Whether you guests know their way to your front door or not, try to keep the pathway lit up this holiday season. With the sun setting earlier, landscape lights along your walkway can help your guests find their way to and from your entryway safely. In addition to adequate lighting, try to remove any tripping hazards from your pathway and front doorway.

2) Child Proof

If you do not have a young child, you may not be prepared to make your home a safe place for your guests’ kids. Ask parents to bring any safety devices to help keep their child safe, such as baby gates or cabinet locks. Also keep doors to unused rooms closed, such as a utility closet or a door leading to stairs, that could create a dangerous situation for a small child.

3) Fire Precautions

With meal prep and candles lit in your home, try to reduce the chance of a fire. Keep open flames away from flammable materials, such as Christmas decorations, and always ensure someone is in the kitchen when food is being cooked. Before your guests arrive, double check the smoke detectors in your house to make sure they are in proper working order. As guests arrive, it is a good idea to brief them on a fire escape plan, if the event should occur.

4) Shoe Organization

As guests enter your home, many will leave their shoes near the entryway. While this is considerate to help keep your floors clean, it can create a tripping hazard for others entering or exiting your house. Have a designated spot, out of the doorway, for guests to safely leave their shoes. It can also be helpful to provide a chair or bench in which guests can take off and put on shoes.

5) Cautiously Open Gifts

While exchanging presents is one of the most exciting things about the holiday season, especially for children, it also presents a few dangers. If a box needs opened, have a designated adult with scissors or a knife to assist in safely opening gifts. Make sure this sharp device is kept track of, it can be easy to accidently set down a knife, which could lead to a dangerous situation.

With increased foot traffic through your doors, it is important to ensure everyone spending time in your house is safe. While you may not be used to being extra aware of your guests’ safety, there are a few easy precautionary steps to take to help create a safe environment for your upcoming gathering. For a safe holiday party, put the above tips into action in your home. Your expert real estate agent at the Lake of the Ozarks wishes you and yours a SAFE and Happy Holiday!

Susan Spica
Professional REALTOR®

BerkShire Hathaway HomeServices
101 Crossings West, Ste. 202
Lake Ozark, MO 65049

Office: (573) 365-6868
Susan's Cell: (573) 280-0484

3 Financial Tips for Selling Your Home

The key to the financial side of home selling is planning. Even if you do not plan to sell your home right away, you can start working toward your financial goals and plans that go along with selling your home at the Lake of the Ozarks. If you are in the market to sell your home, your trusted real estate agent in Lake Ozark, Missouri is here for you! I have provided some helpful finance tips to help prepare your home for a successful sale.

1. Price it Right

The price in which you list your home has a major impact on the speed of selling. Of course it is important to get out what you have invested, but the real estate market does change and it is recommended to adapt your pricing strategy to meet the market demand. Deciding on a home price can be a tricky process. An experienced real estate agent at the Lake of the Ozarks can help you evaluate current market conditions in comparison to your home, in order to come up with the right price to sell your home.

2. Increase Home’s Worth

There are a number of methods to help improve you value of your home. From a bathroom remodel to a kitchen appliance upgrade, try to find the right improvements to make, if any, that could help add to the worth of your house. When investing in your home, especially before selling, you want to ensure it is an upgrade that will likely add to the value. Your trusted real estate agent can help make suggestions in which to improve the appearance and functionality of your home, before selling.

3. Plan Your Next Move

Many times individuals who sell their home plan to purchase another property simultaneously. This can become a financial balancing act, if you end up buying a home before selling your current home. There are a number of options your experienced agent can assist with when selling and buying at the same time. When deciding to sell your house, have a set plan in place of how to handle your home transactions.

For help with the sale of your home, try to make a financial plan in regards to the sale. Through pricing strategy, increasing value, and planning, you can help prepare for your home sale at the Lake of the Ozarks. No matter if you plan to sell in the near future or a few years down the road, you can always make a solid financial plan for your home. Your expert real estate agent in Lake Ozark, MO can help you prepare for the successful sale of your house. Give me a call at (573) 280-0484 if you are ready to sell!

Susan Spica
Professional REALTOR®

BerkShire Hathaway HomeServices
101 Crossings West, Ste. 202
Lake Ozark, MO 65049

Office: (573) 365-6868
Susan's Cell: (573) 280-0484

Holiday Festivities at the Lake

While the holiday season offers a number of unique events at the Lake of the Ozarks, it can be hard to attend them all! Your trusted real estate agent in Lake Ozark, Missouri has provided some of the upcoming event details below, for your enjoyment. Whether you choose to attend them all or select a few, you will be in for a Christmas treat!

Area Christmas Events: 

CHRISTMAS FOR KIDS
On Saturday, December 10, 2016, help underprivileged children in the area by attending the Christmas for Kids event at the Lodge of Four Seasons. Starting at 5:30, enjoy an evening filled with h’oeuvres, cash bar, silent auction, and live entertainment. Admission is $20 person, as well as a new, unwrapped toy donation.

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA AT TAN-TAR-A
Bring the kids to Tan-Tar-A on December 11, 2016 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for Breakfast with Santa! Breakfast and all activities are included in the $5 admission fee. Your child will even receive a special gift from Santa!

CANDLELIGHT & CAROLS
At 2:00 p.m. on December 11th, the Greater Lake Area Chorale presents their 2016 fall concert, Candlelight and Carols at New Life Nazarene in Camdenton, Missouri. Take advantage of this unique entertainment opportunity while you sit back and enjoy some traditional and Christmas tunes.

LAKE AREA COMMUNITY ORCHESTRA AT LAKE OZARK CHRISTIAN CHURCH
Come out to Lake Ozark Christian Church on December 13th for the Lake Area Community Orchestra’s Winter Concert Series. Admission is free, while donations are always welcome. At 7:00 p.m., enjoy a variety of Christmas music, along with other selections.

OLD TYME CHRISTMAS IN LINN CREEK
The Camden County Museum is hosting the Old Tyme Christmas event in Linn Creek on December 17, 2016.

Bonus Ongoing Events:

Christmas Village at Old Kinderhook

Bring the entire family out for a day full of holiday festivities. Open every weekend from Thanksgiving through Christmas, the entire family can enjoy Christmas Village at Old Kinderhook. From Christmas carols to ice skating, take advantage of this unique entertainment opportunity at the Lake of the Ozarks.
Deck the Docks

Enjoy the sixth annual Deck the Docks festival of lights from November 25th through December 30th. Take advantage of this cruise on the Lake of the Ozarks and take in all of the light up docks and waterfront homes. $25.00 tickets can be reserved through the Celebration Cruises.

For more information about holiday events at the Lake of the Ozarks, visit www.FunLake.com

If you are visiting the area, you may fall in love with the Christmas spirit or the charm of the Lake of the Ozarks. To make it your permanent destination, I would be pleased to help you find and purchase a second home at the Lake of the Ozarks. With a number of local contacts and experience with Lake of the Ozarks real estate, I could help you from start to finish of your home buying transaction. Give me a call today at (573) 280-0484.

Susan Spica
Professional REALTOR®

BerkShire Hathaway HomeServices
101 Crossings West, Ste. 202
Lake Ozark, MO 65049

Office: (573) 365-6868
Susan's Cell: (573) 280-0484

15 Real Estate Terms You Need To Know

The home buying and selling process can seem a bit intimidating with all of the specific terms and real estate lingo, especially for first timers. Whether you are new to the real estate market, or just need a quick refresher, your trusted real estate agent at the Lake of the Ozarks has provided a guide to help clarify. Provided below are top terms that are used frequently in the real estate market, and can help you better prepare for selling or buying a home in the near future.

1) Seller’s & Buyer’s Agent – A buyer’s agent will represent the those looking to purchase a home and a seller’s agent will represent the homeowners who are selling.

2) Listings – A listing refers to a home that is currently for sale on the market.

3) Pre-Approval - A borrower has completed a loan application and provided debt, income, and savings documentation, which an underwriter has reviewed and approved. A pre-approval letter shows the homeowner and their real estate agent a dollar amount in which they are approved to borrow.

4) Down-Payment - The part of the purchase price of a property that the buyer pays in cash and does not finance with a mortgage. The down-payment amount required varies with the type of loan.

5) Appraisal - A written justification of the price paid for a property, primarily based on an analysis of comparable sales of similar homes nearby.

6) Escrow - An item of value, money, or documents deposited with a third party to be delivered upon the fulfillment of a condition. Putting money into an escrow account shows everyone involved in the transaction, that you are serious about purchasing the home.

7) Inspection - A thorough inspection by a professional that evaluates the structural and mechanical condition of a property. Many times a buyer’s offer will be contingent on an inspection.

8) Contingent - A condition that must be met before a contract is legally binding.

9) Closing Cost -  The amount you are required to bring to closing, when you sign the papers to buy or sell your house.

10) Lender - A term which can refer to the institution making the loan or to the individual representing the firm.

11) Home Warranty - A type of insurance often purchased by homebuyers that will cover repairs to certain items, such as heating or air conditioning, should they break down within the coverage period.

12) Title - A legal document evidencing a person's right to or ownership of a property.

13) Principal - The amount borrowed or remaining unpaid. Principal is the part of the monthly payment that reduces the remaining balance of a mortgage.

14) Equity - A homeowner's financial interest in a property. Equity is the difference between the fair market value of the property and the amount still owed on its mortgage and other liens.

15) Homeowner Insurance - An insurance policy that combines personal liability insurance and hazard insurance coverage for a dwelling and its contents. This is typically tied into your mortgage payment.

Now that you have a refresher on these common real estate terms, you are ready to enter the market with confidence. Whether you are buying or selling, the lingo can help you understand what your expert real estate agent in Lake Ozark, MO is referring to. If you are in the market to sell or buy, I would be pleased to help you throughout the entire process. I will be able to walk you through and explain each step and term necessary for your real estate transaction. Give me a call at (573) 280-0484 for all of your real estate at the Lake of the Ozarks needs.

Susan Spica
Professional REALTOR®

BerkShire Hathaway HomeServices
101 Crossings West, Ste. 202
Lake Ozark, MO 65049

Office: (573) 365-6868
Susan's Cell: (573) 280-0484

Thanksgiving Side Recipe Ideas

Do you know what you are making for your Thanksgiving meal? With the holiday quickly approaching, it is time to plan out your food spread for your family gatherings. Your trusted real estate agent in Lake Ozark, Missouri knows the importance of a tasty meal to bring a family together. To help you prepare, I have provided some recipe ideas below to go along with your turkey or ham this year for Thanksgiving dinner.

Yummy Sweet Potato Casserole

4 cups sweet potato, cubed
½ cup white sugar
2 eggs, beaten
½ teaspoon salt
4 tablespoons butter, softened
½ cup milk
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup packed brown sugar
½ cup all-purpose flour
3 tablespoons butter, softened
½ cup chopped peacans

Preheat oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C). Put sweet potatoes in a medium saucepan with water to cover. Cook over medium high heat until tender; drain and mash.
In a large bowl, mix together the sweet potatoes, white sugar, eggs, salt, butter, milk and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth. Transfer to a 9x13 inch baking dish.
In medium bowl, mix the brown sugar and flour. Cut in the butter until the mixture is coarse. Stir in the pecans. Sprinkle the mixture over the sweet potato mixture.
Bake in the preheated oven 30 minutes, or until the topping is lightly brown.

Celery Stuffing

½ cup butter
½ cup minced onion
2 cups diced celery, with leaves
3 cups chicken broth
4 quarts bread cubes
3 eggs, beaten
1 tablespoon salt
1 teaspoon black ground pepper
½ teaspoon sage
1 pinch died thyme
1 pinch dried marjoram

Melt butter in saucepan. Saute onion in melted butter until soft, but not brown. Add celery and stir well. Add 2 cups chicken broth. Bring to a boil. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes.
Place bread cubes into large mixing bowl. Add eggs, salt, pepper, sage, thyme, and marjoram. Add onion-celery mixture; combine thoroughly. If still too dry, add more chicken broth. Makes enough to stuff a 10 to 15 pound turkey.

Grandma’s Green Bean Casserole

2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon white sugar
½ cup onion, diced
1 cup sour cream
3 (14.5 ounce) cans French style green beans, drained
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup crumbled buttery round crackers
1 tablespoon butter, melted

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Stir in flour until smooth, and cook for one minute. Stir in the salt, sugar, onion, and sour cream. Add green beans, and stir to coat.
Transfer the mixture to a 2 1/2 quart casserole dish. Spread shredded cheese over the top. In a small bowl, toss together cracker crumbs and remaining butter, and sprinkle over the cheese.
Bake for 30 minutes in the preheated oven, or until the top is golden and cheese is bubbly.

Holiday Cranberry Sauce

4 cups fresh cranberries
1 ½ cups water
5 whole cloves
5 whole allspice berries
3 cinnamon sticks
2 cups white sugar

Place fresh cranberries and water in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
Wrap cloves, allspice berries and cinnamon sticks in a spice bag. Place in the water with cranberries.
Cook until cranberries begin to burst, about 10 minutes.
Stir in sugar and reduce heat to low. Continue cooking 5 minutes, or until sugar has dissolved.
Remove from heat and allow to cool. Discard spice bag. Chill in the refrigerator 8 hours, or overnight, before serving.

Butterhorn Rolls

1 cup shortening
1 cup milk
½ cup warm water
 1 ½ teaspoon active dry yeast
1 teaspoon whiter sugar
2 eggs
½ cup white sugar
2 teaspoon salt
4 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ cup butter, softened

In a small saucepan, combine shortening and milk. Heat until shortening is melted; set aside to cool. Dissolve the yeast and 1 teaspoon sugar in the warm water. Beat the eggs, 1/2 cup sugar and salt together. In a large bowl, combine the milk mixture, yeast mixture and egg mixture. Sift the flour and baking powder together, and add to the wet mixture; stir until combined, then cover and refrigerate overnight.
Divide dough into fourths, and roll out on a floured surface. Spread surface with the soft butter. Cut dough into triangles, and roll up from larger to small end. Place rolls on a baking sheet, and allow to rise for 3 to 4 hours. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C.)
Bake in a preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until golden brown.

For more recipe ideas for your Thanksgiving meal, visit www.allrecipes.com

Whether you are hosting a family get-together and preparing the entire meal or bringing a side to a family member’s home for a gathering, you are ready to prepare your dish with the above recipes. Your experienced real estate agent at the Lake of the Ozarks wants you to be ready to prepare a meal for Thanksgiving. You are now ready to head to the store with your grocery list to stock up and prepare for your upcoming holiday feast!

Susan Spica
Professional REALTOR®

BerkShire Hathaway HomeServices
101 Crossings West, Ste. 202
Lake Ozark, MO 65049

Office: (573) 365-6868
Susan's Cell: (573) 280-0484

5 Tips for Selling Your Home During the Holidays

While many people pull their homes off the market during the holidays or wait until the season has passed to put their home on the market, there are a number of benefits that go hand in hand with selling during the Thanksgiving and Christmas seasons. Your trusted real estate agent in Lake Ozark, Missouri is here to provide some tips to make selling during the holidays easier. If you are in the market to sell your home at the Lake of the Ozarks, don’t wait until the holiday season has passed!

1. Get in the Holiday Spirit

Many homeowners will refrain from decorating for the holidays, when their home is for sale. This method may work, but adding a little holiday cheer to your home can appeal to potential buyers on the market. Now I’m not suggesting you go Clark Griswold style when decorating, but tastefully incorporating Thanksgiving or Christmas décor is acceptable during the holiday season, even if your home is on the market. This helps to create a cozy and cheerful atmosphere for those looking to purchase your home.

2. Attract Motivated Buyers

If a buyer is actively looking during the holiday season, they are serious about purchasing a home. People are typically busy during the months of November & December, preparing for and traveling to and from holiday gatherings. Keep in mind that anyone looking at homes is usually motivated to buy.

3. Keep it Cozy

Although it is not cold yet, the temperature in the area will be dropping soon. Be sure to turn up the heat for an inviting feel inside your home. Give buyers a place to escape the cold air, when they look at your space. If buyers are nice and warm inside your home, they will feel welcomed and relaxed, allowing them to appreciate your home.

4. Think Curb Appeal

As always, remember to spruce up your curb appeal when your home is on the market. Often times, potential buyers will drive by a home before scheduling a showing of the property. The view from the road may be what sways a buyer to look at your home or not. Keep up with your leaf removal regimen when selling your home. You want to show buyers that you take care of your home and maintain it well. If you wish, you can also add Christmas lights to your curb appeal. Line your roof and/or porch area with lights to entice potential buyers this holiday season.

5. Be Flexible

While the holiday season keeps many of us busy, try to be flexible when potential buyers want to look at your home. Keep in mind that buyers may have some time off work around the holidays, which allows them to spend time searching for a home.

With these selling tips in mind, you can prepare your home for potential buyers this holiday season. There are typically less homes on the market during the holiday season, this means less competition for your house. Take advantage of the market conditions and up your chances to sell your home at the Lake of the Ozarks during the holidays. Give me a call at (573) 280-0484 if you want to put your home on the market before the holiday season arrives.

Susan Spica
Professional REALTOR®

BerkShire Hathaway HomeServices
101 Crossings West, Ste. 202
Lake Ozark, MO 65049

Office: (573) 365-6868
Susan's Cell: (573) 280-0484

Fire Safety Tips for Fall

As the temperature starts to drop, especially overnight, many homeowners at the Lake of the Ozarks will start to heat their homes. Whether it be wood in a fireplace or a furnace, there are a few dangers that come along with heating your home. Your trusted real estate agent in Lake Ozark, Missouri has provided some fire safety tips to help make your home a safer place this fall.

Service Furnace

Before you turn your furnace on for the first time this year, consider having a professional check over your system. This can help ensure it is in proper working order and that no safety issues are present. If you do have your system checked out, you can catch a potential issue before a problem arises.

Clean Chimney

Ensure your chimney is clear of all debris before starting a fire each time. Whether it be tree limbs or leaves, a blockage can cause smoke and/or a fire to be trapped inside the home.

Use Caution with Fireplace

When dealing with fire in a fireplace, use caution at all times. Utilize fireplace tools to handle wood when shifting fire and placing new logs on a flame. Keep in mind that you should always use a fireplace screen to keep the fire secure.

Proper Placement of Space Heater

When plugging in a space heater, ensure it is placed away from any flammable objects. Keep the heater away from objects like curtains, clothing, and bedding, which can easily catch fire.

Blow Out Candles

With the limited daylight hours and cooler temperature, many homeowners are home more in the fall and winter months, than during the summer. This means more people will be burning candles inside their home, since they are there to enjoy the flickering light and pleasant scent. If you do choose to burn a candle, ensure it is extinguished before leaving the house or going to bed at night.

Never Heat with an Oven

Heating your home with a gas range stove or an open oven door can lead to toxic air entering the home. This is not safe for you or your family to breathe in.

Test Smoke Alarms

Two times a year, you should test your smoke alarms and replace the battery. A smoke alarm can help alert anyone inside the home to exit because there is a fire threat. To help protect your family, ensure your smoke detectors are in proper working order and have fresh batteries.

Whether you already own a home or are planning to purchase a house at the Lake of the Ozarks, these fall safety tips can help keep you and your family safe at home. If you are in the market for a new home, an experienced real estate agent in Lake Ozark, MO can help you with the search. Now that you know these tips for fire safety in the home, you can feel confident about protecting your home this fall. 

Susan Spica
Professional REALTOR®

BerkShire Hathaway HomeServices
101 Crossings West, Ste. 202
Lake Ozark, MO 65049

Office: (573) 365-6868
Susan's Cell: (573) 280-0484

Sell Your Home – 9 Bathroom Staging Tips

Although a bathroom is typically a smaller room in the home, it can still be a major selling point for the house. If you are considering selling your home at the Lake of the Ozarks, staging can allow potential buyers to see the best aspects of the house. Showcasing your space for buyers on the market is a major benefit of staging your home. Your experienced real estate agent at the Lake of the Ozarks has provided tips to help you better stage your bathroom, when selling your home.

1) Fresh Coat of Paint

While this may not be necessary, many times a new coat of paint can freshen up a space, especially a bathroom. If you do invest in paint, it is recommended to use a neutral color that will appeal to a wider range of potential buyers whom may be looking to purchase your home.

2) Incorporate Luxury Towels

To help create a spa-like environment, consider adding high quality towels to your bathroom. Nice towels can make a space feel luxurious. You can hang the towels from your towel rack, as well as roll towels in a basket or on a shelf for a simple, yet eye catching display.

3) Upgrade Fixtures

If your fixture finishes do not match, ensure they are all the same finish. If you have a gold fixtures in your bathroom, consider upgrading to a nickel, brushed nickel, or bronze tone. Simply replacing outdated fixtures can bring the entire room up-to-date.

4) Create a Relaxing Display

A large jar or bowel can be used to display relaxing bathroom pieces. Sponges, bath bombs, and soaps are nice items to display. This helps add to the spa-feel of the bathroom, along with luxurious towels.

5) Add Light a Light Scent

A bathroom is usually fairly small, especially when it comes to incorporating a scent. Keep in mind that not every potential buyer will fond of a certain scent you select. Try to keep scents light in the bathroom. Also consider opening a bathroom window, if it is nice outside, allowing a nice breeze to enter.

6) Look at the Mirror

Changing out the mirror in a bathroom can give the space a whole new look and feel. Consider adding two smaller mirrors, side by side, for an updated look.  

7) Remove Unsightly Items

When potential buyers are in your bathroom, ensure unsightly items are out of view. Remove any cleaning products, the plunger, and trashcan for an uncluttered room. Consider removing a scale as well, to increase floor space.

8) Showcase Storage Options

Many potential buyers will think about storage when looking to purchase a home. Whether you have shelving or a large vanity, show off the available storage space in your bathroom. Also keep in mind that buyers will be looking in those storage spaces, so keep it organized!

9) Clean, Clean, Clean!

Nothing is more unsightly than a dirty bathroom! Ensure your bathroom is sparkling when you have a showing. Incorporate cleaning the bathroom into your daily routine to keep up with it. This can help alleviate any panic that may set in as you get a call for a last-minute showing.

Now that you have some bathroom staging tips under your belt, you are ready to take action and prepare your house for a showing. Once a homeowner decides to sell their home, they usually want to sell it fast. Staging can help boost the chances for a fast home sale because it shines the best light on the home possible. A bathroom is used a number of times throughout each day, creating a clean and relaxing space can help attract attention from potential buyers. Give me a call at (573) 280-0484, if you are ready to put these bathroom staging efforts to use and sell your house at the Lake of the Ozarks!

Susan Spica
Professional REALTOR®

BerkShire Hathaway HomeServices
101 Crossings West, Ste. 202
Lake Ozark, MO 65049

Office: (573) 365-6868
Susan's Cell: (573) 280-0484

7 Inexpensive Games to Play at Your Halloween Party

A holiday is the perfect excuse to get together with friends and family. Whether you plan to take to kids out to one of the trick-or-treat events around the area or gather with friends, Halloween is a fun time of year. A number of Halloween parties will take place over the weekend and the best real estate agent at the Lake of the Ozarks wants to help you prepare. Provided below are some exciting, inexpensive holiday game ideas for kids to play at your Halloween party.

1. Bob for Apples

A traditional Halloween game, bobbing for apples, requires a big bucket full of water and apples. The contestants will have to pick up an apple without using their hands. The first person to successfully capture an apple with their teeth is the winner.

2. Frankenstein Bowling

To prepare for Frankenstein bowling, decorate used canned good cans with monster faces. Set the cans up in a triangle (like bowling pins) and let the participants take turns knocking down the cans with a ball. To add a level of difficulty to the game, you can try to use a pumpkin as the ball, which does not roll very straight!

3. Eight-Leg Corn Hole

An easy way to make the traditional corn hole game more festive, is to decorate the bean bags for Halloween. You can simply add pipe cleaners and glue on eyes for a “spider” bag to throw. The rules of corn hole remain the same, just a little spookier version utilizing spiders.

4. Night Time Ring Toss

Ring toss in the dark is a fun way to give a spooky factor to a traditional carnival type game. Set up empty (or full) soda bottles or milk cans and use glow sticks hooked together for the rings. Darkness adds a scary factor, and ups the difficulty involved in ring toss.

5. Mummy Race

A mummy race is a fun way to start off any Halloween party. After the participants are wrapped like mummies, using toilet paper or paper towels, they are ready to race to the finish line. There are a number of race type options that can be incorporated into the mummy race format.

6. Pumpkin Golf

A large pumpkin and a small pieces of plywood can be used to create a pumpkin golf activity at your party. The pumpkin will need to be carved into a jack-o-lantern style (with a wide open mouth). Create a ramp with the wood from the ground into the pumpkin’s mouth. Now all you need is participants with putters and a few golf balls. Just like mini golf, try to putt the ball up the ramp into the jack-o-lantern’s mouth.

7. Decoration Station

A pumpkin decoration station can easily be made with a few small pumpkins and craft paints with brushes. The kids will have a blast painting their pumpkins alongside their friends. Remember to cover the work station with a tablecloth or drop cloth, for an easy clean up!

Now that you have plenty of game ideas, you are ready to have a great time at your Halloween party in the next few days. Your trusted real estate agent in Lake Ozark, MO wants you to be able to enjoy the spooky festivities. Next year, if you want to host your own Halloween party, you may want to start your search to buy a home at the Lake of the Ozarks. Give me a call at (573) 280-0484 if you are interested in the purchase of a new home in the area. 

Susan Spica
Professional REALTOR®

BerkShire Hathaway HomeServices
101 Crossings West, Ste. 202
Lake Ozark, MO 65049

Office: (573) 365-6868
Susan's Cell: (573) 280-0484

5 Ways to Make Your House a Home: Fall Decorating Tips

Whether you are moving into your first home or looking to make your space a little cozier, decorating your house for fall can help you accomplish a comfortable place to call your own. An exciting time for any homeowner at the Lake of the Ozarks is adding personal touches and décor to your house. The great thing about fall décor is that it can be left up all season long! Halloween and Thanksgiving pieces can be added to your existing fall look in your home. Your trusted real estate agent at the Lake of the Ozarks has provided some tips to decorate your home this fall.

Incorporate a Throw

Many people think of autumn as a time to curl up in front of the fireplace, with a plush blanket draped across them, snuggled in for the evening. Adding a beautiful, fall colored throw blanket to your living room or bedroom can help bring about warmth during the chilly part of the season. The cozy factor in your home with go up a few notches by simply throwing a blanket over the arm of the couch or the foot of the bed.

Light Up the Room

As the daylight hours get shorter and shorter, you may consider adding additional lighting to your home. Incorporate a few lamps in your living room, to help light up the room during the fall months. You can add a fall inspired lamp to the bedroom, for extra illumination in that room as well.

Stock Up on Fire Wood

If you have a fireplace, you may start gathering firewood for the season. You may want to light the fireplace on a cool fall night to keep you and your family warm. Incorporate your stack of firewood into your fall décor efforts. Add a neatly stacked pile to the hearth of the fireplace, or a beautiful fall basket near the fireplace to hold your firewood this season.

Add Autumn Touch to Your Table

A festive way to get in on the fall festivities is to add an autumn inspired centerpiece to your dining table. A wreath laying on the table is a fun way to bring fall touches to your table. A twig wreath with a candle in the middle and little pumpkins around the wreath can bring the freshness of the season into your dining space. Placemats and festive centerpieces are an easy way to bring fall tones into your dining room.

Pumpkins, Gourds, and Pine Cones (Oh My!)

Fall is full of natural options to add to your decorating efforts. Pumpkins are a popular decorating item, especially this time of year. You can add pumpkins to every room in your home for an autumn feel all around. Create a festive display in any room of your home with pumpkins, gourds, and pine cones. Whether you want to create a focal point or a few items spread throughout your home, pumpkins, gourds, and pine cones can be used to easily decorate your home this autumn.

Decorating for fall can help get you and your family into the spirit of the season. While the temperature is usually nice during the day, the evenings can cool off quite a bit in the autumn season. This makes for a perfect time to stay indoors and add some fall decorations to your home. Fall is a beautiful time of year to take advantage of cozy nights inside your home, enjoying your new fall décor. If you are looking for a new place to decorate and call your own, contact a real estate agent in Lake Ozark, MO.

Susan Spica
Professional REALTOR®

BerkShire Hathaway HomeServices
101 Crossings West, Ste. 202
Lake Ozark, MO 65049

Office: (573) 365-6868
Susan's Cell: (573) 280-0484

7 Tips for First Time Home Sellers

It is inevitable that after purchasing your first home, you will one day want to sell it. Now that the new has worn off, you may be ready to move on to a different house. Whether you are wanting to relocate to a new town or find a bigger home for your family, selling at the Lake of the Ozarks can be hassle-free. Take into consideration some of the tips provided by your expert real estate agent in Lake Ozark, MO.

1. Price It Right

The price of a home can determine how quickly it will sell, depending on the current local market. Many homeowners want to get the most money for their home, that way they can easily upgrade in their new space. Overpricing can actually hurt your chances of selling, especially if a number of price reductions will be needed to sell the property.

2. Include Extras

Extra incentives included in the sale of a home can entice potential buyers to act quickly, especially if it is an item in which they are in need. There are a number of ways to sweeten the deal as a home seller. Consider including the washer and dryer or other household appliances in the sale of your house. Sometimes the seller can even offer to pay closing costs associated with the sale, to help encourage buyers to act on the property.

3. Remove Clutter

Often first time home sellers have never prepared a home to sell before. Try to remove unnecessary items around the home. Keeping your home clean when it is for sale, is imperative. You want potential buyers looking at your home to see what a great place it is to live, not notice the dust on the coffee table or the cobweb in the corner. Along with removing clutter, personal items should be taken down. Think of this as a time to prepare for your move. Pack up family pictures and memorabilia that adorn your walls and shelves in order to help buyers envision themselves living in your house.

4. Focus on Curb Appeal

Many potential home buyers will drive by a house before deciding to schedule a showing of it. Ensure your house is appealing from the outside. Keeping your lawn and landscape trimmed can help your home stand out. Also adding an eye-catching item to your front porch, like a colorful flower pot or a fall décor display, can draw attention to the home.

5. Make the Right Repairs

If there is an easy and inexpensive fix that can be made to improve your home, go for it. Some first time home sellers want to make major repairs or even remodel entire rooms before selling. Although this can be beneficial, it does not always work out in the favor of the seller. The return on investment is not guaranteed when doing a big remodel or update right before selling.

6. Detach Yourself

You may be more attached to your home than you realize. It can be easier to get through the negotiation process if you detach yourself from the house you are selling. Keep in mind, there is a reason you are selling and it is time for the next step in your life.

7. Select Experienced Real Estate Agent

When selling your house, the real estate agent you select is a key piece to the success of the sale. Find an agent who will use their marketing strategies to promote your home, for a faster sell. Get to know you seller’s agent to ensure they have your best interest in mind, when listing your house.

Call Today To List Your Home!

If you are ready to move on to the next and sell your home, the tips listed above can help make the process flow smoothly. An experienced REALTOR® in Lake Ozark, MO can help you sell your house successfully. One of the most important parts of selling your house, is your choice in real estate agent. Give me a call at (573) 280-0484 to schedule a consultation to sell your home at the Lake of the Ozarks. 

Susan Spica
Professional REALTOR®

BerkShire Hathaway HomeServices
101 Crossings West, Ste. 202
Lake Ozark, MO 65049

Office: (573) 365-6868
Susan's Cell: (573) 280-0484

5 Tips To Make Moving Day Easier

You found your dream home and have started packing up your belongings in preparation to move… now what? Moving is an exciting time, it means new beginnings and a fresh start in a new location. While this blank slate has endless possibilities, the process of moving can be a little stressful at times. To help reduce your stress on moving day, your trusted real estate expert at the Lake of the Ozarks has provided some helpful tips and tricks.

1. Create a Plan

When a plan is established and communicated, it can help keep moving day on track, whether you are moving across the country or across town. Organize your boxes by the room in which they belong and be sure to label them as well. This can be helpful for those assisting you with the move to know exactly where they belong once the boxes are being unloaded and distributed. An important part of the plan is scheduling, ensure your moving day starts early to allow enough time for all of your tasks. Many times the process of moving can take longer than expected, plan accordingly.

2. Have Your Boxes Packed

Especially if you have friends, family, or a moving company helping with your move, ensure your boxes are packed before moving day. They are there to help move, not to help pack the remainder of your items. Belongings that are boxed up and ready to be moved can help keep your moving day plan on track.

3. Remove Kids and Pets from the Equation

Moving day can often be worrisome for children and animals. It can create an uneasy feeling as they see all of the belongings in their home being moved out. Beforehand, ensure that someone is available to watch your kids and/or pets. Young children and animals can get in the way and cause distractions when you are trying to focus on the task at hand and complete your move in a timely manner.

4. Keep Your “Day Of” Box Near at all Times

A box or tote should be designated as “day of” or “first items” and that box should be near you at all times throughout the moving day. This box should include cleaning products that may be needed, an emergency kit, toilet paper for your new location, snacks, and a tool box for minor fixes.

5. Think About Food and Drink Options

Often times moving day arrives and you have been so consumed with packing and preparing, that food and drinks for the day have gone to the wayside. Wherever a meal fits into your moving day, you will likely not be able to prepare an elaborate spread, since many of your cooking items will be packed up in boxes. Have a cooler with lunch meat for sandwiches and chips nearby or plan to order a pizza for the group helping you move. It is important to stay hydrated as you work hard moving throughout the day. Encourage everyone helping to drink plenty of water and provide a cooler full of water or sports drinks for them.

In order for a successful and low-stress move, organization is key. Take into consideration some of these tips above to help make your moving day flow a little smoother. If you are thinking about purchasing a new house, these tips can come in handy in the near future. To start your search for a new home at the Lake of the Ozarks, I would be pleased to help. Call (573) 280-0484 if you are interested in viewing homes currently on the market in the area. 

Susan Spica
Professional REALTOR®

BerkShire Hathaway HomeServices
101 Crossings West, Ste. 202
Lake Ozark, MO 65049

Office: (573) 365-6868
Susan's Cell: (573) 280-0484

Pumpkin Patches Near Lake of the Ozarks

Fall brings about a number of fun, outdoor activities for many Lake of the Ozarks residents. Top among activities to partake in, are pumpkin patches. This is a fun way to enjoy time with the entire family. Take in the crisp fall air at a pumpkin patch this month. Your trusted real estate agent at the Lake of the Ozarks has provided a list of area pumpkin patches for you and yours to enjoy this fall.

MECCA Pumpkin Patch

MECCA is located at 425 Delmar Road in Roach, Missouri for a day of hands-on fall activities. There is something at the 180 acre farm for all members of your family to enjoy every weekend in October from 10:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.  A hay ride, petting zoo, and corn crib are available for you and your family to enjoy. Also, face painting, a corn maze, a big slide, and the corn cannon give the kids fun options in which they can participate. Don’t miss out on the concession stand, with famous fall food and drink options to make your time at MECCA even better. Admission to the pumpkin patch is $5.00 per person.

The Cave Pumpkin Patch

Opened every Saturday and Sunday in October, from 10:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m., bring your family out for a day of fall fun in Brumley, Missouri. Located at 123 Swinging Bridges Road, the pumpkin patch is just a short drive from Osage Beach. A number of attractions are available for entertainment of adults and kids alike. Corn crib, mini golf, duck races, water balloon sling shot, pumpkin painting, a sand box, and barrel train are just a few of the activities offered at The Cave. Also available at the pumpkin patch is a hay ride, bridges, hay bale maze, and the cave. There are a number of activities to keep you and your family busy for a day of fun. Water, soda, candy, and chips will be for sale, to help you make an entire day of your pumpkin patch visit. The cost is $6.00 per person (over the age of 2) and includes admission to The Cave.

Pumpkin Patch at Hy-Vee Hollow

From 10:00 a.m. through 6:00 p.m., Hy-Vee Hollow is open for entertainment of the entire family. Every Saturday and Sunday from September 19 until October 25, a number of activities are available at Hy-Vee. From a straw bale maze to an old fashioned water pump duck race, bring the kids out to get involved in the fall festivities. A corn pit, seesaws, and hay mountain are also available at Hy-Vee this autumn for your enjoyment. Don’t miss out on the free hayride as well!

Pumpkins are a staple when it comes to fall. With Hall-O-Ween soon approaching, your family can pick out their pumpkins to carve this year at one of the area pumpkin patches. Get outside and enjoy the beautiful foliage as the leaves start to change in the area, while spending time with your family and friends. There are a number of fun fall events at the Lake of the Ozarks for your enjoyment. While you are spending time with your family, you may start thinking about a new place for all of you to call home. If you are in the market for a new home at the Lake of the Ozarks this autumn season, call (573) 280-0484 to start your home search today!

Susan Spica
Professional REALTOR®

BerkShire Hathaway HomeServices
101 Crossings West, Ste. 202
Lake Ozark, MO 65049

Office: (573) 365-6868
Susan's Cell: (573) 280-0484