South West Missouri Real Estate and More!

8 Ways To Sell Your Springfield Missouri Home Quickly And For The Best Price

Debbie DiFonzo-United Country VIP Realty-Missouri — Tue, 05 Jan 2010 11:58:05 -0600

Betty and John have done a wonderful job outlining 8 ways to sell your Springfield MO home quickly and for the best price -

I am re-posting their list here, as I truly believe these tips will assist you no matter where you are in the Ozarks --

Via Team Knowles, Springfield Missouri Real Estate, Betty & John Knowles, REALTORS® (Keller Williams - www.springfieldmissourihomesforsale.com):

1. Define the reasons why you are selling your home in Springfield MO, and keep those reasons private.
Telling a prospective buyer that you are selling your house because you can no longer afford the payments, or because you need to move quickly, puts them at a bargaining advantage. Once you have decided that it is the right time to sell your home, keep the reasons why to yourself. Those reasons will dictate most of your other selling decisions, such as how much you want to invest in fixing up your home before you sell, how to set your asking price, how long you are willing to keep your house on the market to get the price you want, and how much money you want to walk away with after all is said and done. Keeping this information to yourself will put you at an advantage during the negotiation process.
2. Know how to properly set a price for your home.
It’s important to do your homework before coming up with the right selling price. Compare your home to other similar homes that have recently sold in your area over the last 6 to 12 months. Generally, most prospective buyers will compare your home to 15 or 20 similar homes, so they will already have a good feel for what your home is worth. If you set your price too high, you will obviously attract very little interest from prospective buyers or real estate agents. If you set your price too low, however, you will have people wondering what is wrong with your home, and you may scare away those very same prospective buyers and agents.
3. Pick the right real estate agent for you.
Statistics show that three out of four homeowners wouldn’t use the same real estate agent they used to sell their last home. Choosing an agent should be no different than interviewing someone for a job...after all, the agent is working for you! Find an agent who makes you feel comfortable, and who is able to effectively communicate with you at all times.
4. Increase the sales potential of your house.
Never underestimate the importance of curb appeal. For most people, buying a home is an emotional choice, and they need to feel a connection to a home before they buy. You can increase the likelihood of this happening by performing all minor cosmetic repairs in your home, planting fresh flowers and shrubs outside, and by adding a fresh coat of paint wherever it is needed. Before you show your house to a prospective buyer, you should clean every inch of your home. Many buyers can be turned off by a minor detail, such as a dusty ceiling fan or a loose moulding, so fix everything you can. They’re trying to imagine themselves at home in their new house, and it’s your job to help them accomplish that.
5. Make sure all of the information on your house is readily available to prospective buyers and agents.
One sure way to discourage buyers and agents from seriously considering your home is to waste their time by not readily answering all their questions about your home. Sales pitches, misleading information, and playing phone tag with agents and buyers is a sure way to eliminate serious offers. Have your agent place an ad with a phone number that will lead to a 24-hour, prerecorded hot line with all the pertinent information on your home. Studies have shown that three times as many buyers respond to such a system, and getting the information about your house to as many potential buyers as possibly will obviously increase the chances of a sale.
6. Understand your buyer.
While it is important to protect your reasons for selling your home, finding out what motivates a potential buyer will definitely put you at an advantage during the negotiation. Knowing if the buyer needs to move in quickly, or if they are able to get financing easily will dictate how far you can push them to get your asking price.
7. Ensure that all the paperwork is complete at all times.
Eliminate the possibility of unseen delays by disclosing everything you can about your house, preferably in writing. Make sure that all responsibilities and costs are clearly spelled out in the sales contract, and that neither you nor the buyer veers away from these agreements. Resist the temptation to make a change at the last minute just to make the buyer happy... this can increase the possibility of the deal falling through.
8. Live in your house in Springfield MO until it is sold.
It is easier for a potential buyer to see themselves living comfortably in your home if you are already doing so. An empty house can easily look lonely or unwanted. Even resist the urge to tell prospective buyers that you have already found a new home, since this will give them the impression that you are eager to sell.

7 Costly Mistakes When Selling Your Home In Springfield Missouri

Top Questions You Need To Ask Your Springfield Missouri Real Estate Agent Before Hiring Them

TeamKnowles, Spouses Selling Houses!

2925 E Battlefield Rd
Springfield, MO 65804

phone or text: (417) 631-7234

Visit Our Website

We serve sellers and buyers looking for Springfield Missouri Homes For Sale, Ozark Missouri Homes For Sale, and Nixa Missouri Homes For Sale. Ask us about our comprehensive marketing plan to sell your home or click our website to search all properties for sale in the area including foreclosures. Springfield Missouri Real Estate Market Report. We're here to help!

Stop Missouri Double Taxation on real estate and say Yes to a new constitutional amendment

Debbie DiFonzo-United Country VIP Realty-Missouri — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 14:00:34 -0600

The State of Missouri currently does not levy a transfer tax when a home sells - we are one of only a few states that does not "double tax" real estate. We'd like to keep it that way!

If you live in Missouri, I encourage you to read the post below and visit the website.

We must join together to ban a Missouri transfer tax.

Via Grant Hickman (The Grant Hickman Team):

Let’s stop Missouri politicians from penalizing homeowners and buyers

Missouri is one of 13 states that does not levy a transfer tax on home sales, and a coalition of property owners, businesses and the Missouri Association of REALTORS™ want to keep it that way.

The group sees transfer taxes as double taxation because Missourians already pay property taxes on real estate. A petition drive and a website have been created to help homeowners and potential buyers reach lawmakers who have the power to levy such a tax.

To place a state constitutional amendment on the November 2010 ballot to prohibit Missouri lawmakers from passing the tax initiative, the group needs more than 157,000 valid signatures. To make voters more aware of this issue, a new website, www.YesToSaveHomes.com is now online to help consumers learn more about the tax, calculate the tax based on the home’s sale price, and get involved.

Here’s the simple and straightforward proposal: “Shall the Missouri Constitution be amended to prevent the state, counties and other political subdivisions from imposing any new tax, including a sales tax, on the sale or transfer of homes or any other real estate?”

As an example, here’s a calculation on a St. Charles County home sale. The home sold for $150,000 and at the St. Charles County taxation rate of 7.0750%, the amount would be an additional $10,612.50.* Jane Mendenhall, president-elect of the Missouri Association of Realtors, believes the transfer tax places undue stress on low-income Missourians who typically spend a larger percentage of income on their home.

Add the mix of Missourians who have lost their jobs, had pay cuts and have been forced to sell their homes or experienced a drop in property values, and the transfer tax just isn’t good for the recovering Missouri economy.

Legislators are looking around to fine new sources of revenue. The transfer tax is one of those sources politicians are eyeing. With the help of voters and homebuyers, the transfer tax will not be an additional burden on Missouri residents.

* This number is based on area percentages.

Written by Myra Vandersall

40 acre farm outside of Lebanon MO - Enjoy all Ozark living has to offer!

Debbie DiFonzo-United Country VIP Realty-Missouri — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 15:44:28 -0600

I've lived in the Missouri Ozarks for almost ten years now - I still get a thrill when I see, walk on and touch a beautiful piece of property. The joy and appreciation of the land has not left me!

I hope you'll appreciate this property for all it has to offer - it is one of the nicest, user friendly, full amenity farms I have seen recently -- Enjoy!

---- Debbie

40 acres with ponds and outbuildings

Overview
Maps
Photos
Features
Description
Neighborhood

$164,777

Single Family Home
For Sale

Main Features

2 Bedrooms
1 Bathroom
1 Unit
Lot: 40.00 acre(s)

Location

11373 Hwy 32
Lebanon, MO 65536

Debbie DiFonzo

United Country VIP Realty
(417) 532-2031
missouriagent@msn.com
http://www.ucmissouri.com

Listed by: United Country VIP Realty

Our recent listings

40 acres with ponds and outbuildings
29+ acres with pond and spring-fed creek
4 bdrm home, in town, corner lot
Two homes for less than one! 7+ acres
All brick home with Equestrian Barn

Subscribe to our listing feed

See more Lebanon, MO real estate for sale

Almost 30 acres of light woods with pond and spring-fed creek - near Mennonite Community and State Park

Debbie DiFonzo-United Country VIP Realty-Missouri — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 16:35:44 -0600

My husband will tell you that hunting land shouldn't be "pretty" but I'm here to say - this is one of the prettiest pieces I have seen in Southwest Missouri in many years!

Located near Bennett Springs State Park, off the beaten path, this property is quiet, scenic and has some of the nicest water you're likely to find!

Hope you enjoy this piece as much as I did....Debbie

29+ acres with pond and spring-fed creek

Overview
Maps
Photos
Features
Description
Neighborhood

$59,850

Lots and Lands
For Sale

Main Features

Lot: 29.92 acre(s)

Location

xx Ridge Trail Rd
Tunas, MO 65764

Debbie DiFonzo

United Country VIP Realty
(417) 532-2031
missouriagent@msn.com
http://www.ucmissouri.com

Listed by: United Country VIP Realty

Our recent listings

29+ acres with pond and spring-fed creek
4 bdrm home, in town, corner lot
Two homes for less than one! 7+ acres
All brick home with Equestrian Barn

Subscribe to our listing feed

See more Tunas, MO real estate for sale

Horse Property in the Ozarks for sale: 75 Sixty Six Dr, Niangua MO 65713

Debbie DiFonzo-United Country VIP Realty-Missouri — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 21:46:40 -0500

Two homes for less than one! 7+ acres

Overview
Maps
Photos
Features
Description
Neighborhood

$274,777

Single Family Home
For Sale

Main Features

3 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms
1 Partial Bathroom
2 Units
Interior: 2334 sqft
Lot: 7.74 acre(s)

Location

75 Sixty Six Drive
Niangua, MO 65713

Debbie DiFonzo

United Country VIP Realty
(417) 532-2031
missouriagent@msn.com
http://www.ucmissouri.com

Listed by: United Country VIP Realty

Our recent listings

Two homes for less than one! 7+ acres
All brick home with Equestrian Barn

Subscribe to our listing feed

See more Niangua, MO real estate for sale

This property offered for sale by: United Country VIP Realty, located in Marshfield Missouri. Debbie DiFonzo, Broker

More information is available upon request, including a Seller's Disclosure for both homes - the main home was built in 2005, the second home, built in 2007.

Custom horse barn plus all brick home in Niangua MO, Webster County Missouri - offered for sale

Debbie DiFonzo-United Country VIP Realty-Missouri — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 21:31:24 -0500

All brick home with Equestrian Barn

Overview
Maps
Photos
Features
Description
Neighborhood

$749,777

Single Family Home
For Sale

Main Features

4 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms
1 Partial Bathroom
Interior: 3100 sqft
Lot: 11.00 acre(s)

Location

5111 Hwy CC
Niangua, MO 65713

Debbie DiFonzo

United Country VIP Realty
(417) 532-2031
missouriagent@msn.com
http://www.ucmissouri.com

Listed by: United Country VIP Realty

See more Niangua, MO real estate for sale

United Country VIP Realty is located in Lebanon MO and Marshfeild MO, in the heart of the Missouri Ozarks. We specialize in country property - including horse farms, dairy farms, river property, homes on small acreage and commercial properties. Let us help you, Find Your Freedom in Missouri.

Why I Love Mondays!

Debbie DiFonzo-United Country VIP Realty-Missouri — Tue, 28 Apr 2009 20:05:21 -0500

WOW! It feels great to be getting back to my blog! Family Life and the world of real estate have kept me occupied the last few weeks - boy, have I missed writing about South West Missouri real estate and the happenings around here!

While this isn't an original piece, I thought it was fitting for how I've been feeling -

We have to start somewhere!

Via Claire C. (ActiveRain Corporation):

I have expounded on the brilliance of mornings in the past, and now, I'm afraid I must write an ode to Mondays. There are people in this world who, when Monday rolls around, they hit the snooze button eighteen times before finally rolling out of bed, their hair mussed and going every direction, dark circles under their eyes, and pajamas rumpled from their tossing, turning escapades of the night past.

Perhaps I need not say it, but I'm not one of those people. I rolled out of bed bright and early this morning at 7am, brushed my teeth, pulled on the clothes I'd laid out last night, grabbed the bag I'd packed, grabbed my pop tarts and headed to work. I flew across the 520 bridge and soared up 405, parking in my favorite spot upon arrival and taking a quick jaunt to Starbucks for an iced mocha.

Yes, it was a good morning.

Setting down with my mocha and my Todoodlist, I added a few items that had popped up over the weekend, sent out prepatory emails to some of the guys so that I had what I needed by the end of the day, and got down to work. Lunch flew by without a fuss - everyone's lunch order was correct this time! Woot!

Now, I'm sitting here, and it's 2:34pm. My Todoodlist is now down to three items for follow-up -- down from eighteen this morning. Now, orange juice in hand, I'm considering the rest of my day. I have just an hour and a half before it's over, and that is PLENTY of time to get some of the more tasteless frogs swallowed.

Mondays are wonderful work days for me because I have SO much energy. I'm a yes-girl on Mondays - "Yes, I can do that!" "Sure, I'll get right on it!" "Absolutely, I have time for that today." I think this energy is the product of keeping my weekends low-key; if you're always running around, when do you have time to breathe? Story of my life!

So an ode to Mondays... They are definitely my high-energy, high-production day. I know Jon thinks I'm super-organized and uber-productive, but everyone has those days where they don't feel like they got anything done (I've posted about a few myself!). All I have to say is: Thank the Rain for Mondays.... we have to start somewhere, and why not start on the best foot possible?

Some tips for happy Mondays:

On FRIDAY, make your Monday to-do list, so you don't think about it at all over the weekend. Neaten your desk.

Sunday evening, eat before 8pm and get to sleep at a reasonable hour. If you have time, read before bed.

Monday morning, get out of bed the first time your alarm goes off. Studies show that people actually feel MORE tired after hitting the snooze.

Upon arrival to work, add the new items that came through your inbox to your to-do list.

Get some coffee or orange juice, make sure you've eaten SOMETHING (even if it's just a banana).

Start at #1 on your to-do list and race yourself to see how much you can get done before the next person arrives at work.

Finally:

7. Make sure you always have ONE THING on your desk that makes you happy. Right now, I have daffodils!

Home in a Missouri Cave - in need of financing - or will have to be sold

Debbie DiFonzo-United Country VIP Realty-Missouri — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 22:16:54 -0600

We have a restaurant in a Cave listed for sale - so I'm not sure why I was shocked to hear about a HOME in a CAVE. This home is also located in Missouri and the family is having trouble finding a bank that will re-finance the property.

More of the story is below... if you know of anyone in the mortgage business, or you yourself are in lending, perhaps you can help this family of five.

Via Tom Wood (Real Estate Auction Systems):

I ran across this fascinating story about a family who turned a cave in Missouri into their home.

They are not able to get bank financing so they are trying to sell it on Ebay. They have received so much exposure that the last time I looked they had over 900,000 views on their online real estate auction and there are still 11 days left.

Evidently they are having technical problems trying to answer questions and approve bidders and Ebay is working on it.

All this attention will surely bring a solution. I'm sure a bank will step in and offer financing or they will be able to sell it for a nice profit.

It's another example of how well the Internet can work for marketing. If you're interested in learning more, here is a link to their blog and forum http://www.Caveland.US

So.. How much WILL the Sellers take?

Debbie DiFonzo-United Country VIP Realty-Missouri — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 21:13:04 -0500

It's no secret that I love to list property, be it a home, land, commercial building or farm in South Central Missouri. There is something about looking at a property, taking photos, listing the features and putting all the pieces of the puzzle together until we get to the closing table. The process is rather addictive!

You may be surprised to learn the most popular question I receive as a listing agent - So... what is the Seller's bottom dollar? How low will they go?

Pat Kennedy sums up why, as a buyer, you can cross that question off your list and move on to the next... but don't wait too long - or your perfect Buffalo MO property may be long gone!

Via Patricia Kennedy (Evers & Company Realtors):

If you are thinking about making an offer on a house you like, chances are you are planning to make an offer for something less than the asking price. And chances are you'd like some idea of what the magic number might be - the absolute least amount of money the seller will take.

Well, if you are thinking about asking the listing agent for this little piece of information, save your breath! If she knows, she can't tell you.

But guess what! She doesn't know. She doesn't have a clue.

And guess what else! The sellers don't know either. They won't have a clue of what their bottom line is until they are faced with an offer and go back and forth a few times with the prospective buyers.

So if you are wondering what the sellers will take, make an offer. If your number is too low, the worst thing that can happen is that they will reject your it. In this market, however, they are more likely to make a counter-offer. After a little give and take, you will get your answer, and if you can reach a meeting of the minds, you'll have a new house.

One of the great things about buying in a buyer's market is that you can negotiate, and most sellers are willing to do a little horse trading to sell their homes.

If you wait until the market turns around, you could find yourself having to compete with other buyers who all want your house!

Do you own property in the Conway MO school district? Read on....

Debbie DiFonzo-United Country VIP Realty-Missouri — Sat, 07 Mar 2009 21:10:19 -0600

Yesterday I told you about my clients looking for a home in the Laclede County R-1 school district. They lost out on a home in Phillipsburg MO by a matter of minutes!

We're still looking!

If you own a home in the Laclede County R-1 school district and are in Lebanon MO, Conway MO or Phillipsburg MO please read on...

This couple is looking for a home:

with a little bit of land, 3+ acres would be ideal
at least two full bathrooms is a must
at least three bedrooms
hard wood floors would be nice, but not required
a basement would be nice
a storm shelter would be a great bonus
easy access to I-44 would be a plus
in good condition - not a whole lot of work please

If you have a home you think would be of interest to my client, and you are willing to sell, call me at 417-533-4015 or email me at debbie@ucvip.com
All contacts will be held in confidence.

Debbie DiFonzo, e-PRO, GRI, SRS
Broker/Owner
United Country VIP Realty

417-532-2031 Lebanon MO office phone
417-468-5900 Marshfield MO office phone

www.FindYourFreedomMissouri.com

Four reasons to list and SELL your Misouri property NOW

Debbie DiFonzo-United Country VIP Realty-Missouri — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 22:02:07 -0600

Thinking of selling your Southwest Missouri property? Wait no more - do it now!

This week I've spent a great deal of time talking to people about the First Time Homebuyer tax credit being offered by the Federal government as well as the Tax Advance program being offered by the State of Missouri. There have been a ton of questions and I'm loving every minute of it!

While it's still early in the program, the buying public has taken note and is looking into their buying options.

Here are four reasons I believe now is a great time to list your home to SELL:

1. New inventory will get noticed! Many properties on the market today have been there for a long, long time. The issue may be price, it may be condition or perhaps even difficulty in showing the home. Agents have seen these properties and have made their judgment call. Buyers have seen these properties on the Internet and have their reservations. A home that has not been on the market recently will get noticed.

2. Local buyers are asking about the 1st time buyer tax credits - The majority of questions we've received this week have come from RENTERS in the area. One or two have made the decision to stay in the area, put down roots and buy a home. A few realize there may never be a better incentive to buy than there is right now.

3. Rates are still historically low - Compared to previous down turns in real estate, interest rates are incredibly low. Buyers can still buy more home for their money due to lower rates. I do believe this time next year we will see higher interest rates.

4. Out of state buyer interest is picking back up - Real estate is selling in areas outside of Missouri. We are again seeing inquiries from around the country; as properties out of state are selling, people are able to come into the state of Missouri and BUY homes, farms and commercial property. This is new money that can be used to buy your home.

And, a bonus: This is a great time to take advantage of the lower interest rates for YOURSELF, especially if you are in need of a larger home or more land.

If you'd like more information on the programs available to your buyers:

Are you a First Time Homebuyer in South Central Missouri? 10 things to know

MHDC Tax Credit Advance Loan Program for 1st Time Home Buyers in Missouri

Frequently Asked Questions About the Home Buyer Tax Credit

Expanded Tax Break Available for 2009 First-Time Homebuyers

United Country VIP Realty serves Laclede County, Dallas County and Webster County in Missouri.

If you are outside our area, we are more than happy to refer you to real estate agents that we have worked with and that we trust in other parts of Missouri.

Let us help you, Find Your Freedom in Missouri.

Do you know if Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac holds your loan?

Debbie DiFonzo-United Country VIP Realty-Missouri — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 12:15:54 -0500

Did you know your loan may not be with the same lender as when you first signed your paperwork to purchase your Southwest Missouri home?

Loans are often "sold" after the initial purchase. You may now have a "loan servicer" to deal with rather than the actual lender.

Why should this matter to you? Right now it may because of all the Federal programs and assistance coming down the pipeline.

To find out if Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac holds your loan, read on... great information below...

Via Winston Westbrook Victorville Real Estate Broker/Notary:

This seems to be the question of the hour.

How do I find out if Freddie Mac or Fannie Mae has my loan??

To find out if either of these two giants have your loan you need to first call your lender or loan servicer (the one who sends you a mortgage statement every month) and ask them if one of the two have your loan. If they do not want to tell you because some might not or if you do not feel comfortable with the customer service reps answer then you can find out directly from Freddie Mac or Fannie Mae by clicking the direct links below or calling the toll free numbers:

Does Freddie Mac have my mortgage online request form

1-800-FREDDIE (8am to 8pm EST)

Does Fannie Mae have my mortgage online request form

1-800-7FANNIE (8am to 8pm EST)

Once you know who has your loan you can then see if you qualify for the new refinance program that begins today for homeowners throughout America that are current with their mortgage payments but have not been able to qualify for a refinance due to the loss of value in their home.

Should you have any questions please feel free to contact me. I will be happy to answer any questions you may have.

If you decide to snooze, you may just lose - now is a great time to SELL

Debbie DiFonzo-United Country VIP Realty-Missouri — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 22:45:02 -0600

Griffin Georgia real estate broker Jessica Horton is more blunt than I am and has a way of adding humor to drive home her point.

I recently wrote a post outlining four reasons why someone should sell now - Jessica gets right to the point for buyers and sellers - if you snooze you may just lose.

Buyers are out there - If you're thinking of selling your Southwest Missouri property, this is a must read ---

Via Jessica Wynn Horton (Jessica Horton & Assoc.):

This is going to be very short and sweet:

I realize the handsome (pretty) faces on television say, "It's ugly out there" and nobody is buying.

I realize the serious-sounding voices thundering from the radio say, "You want to sell your home...hahahaaa. Yeah right!"

I realize the papers are printing anything to keep their subscriptions from falling faster than the number of new building permits.

I realize that some agents say, "Buyers hold all the cards" and you can do as you please, when you please - if you please.

Well, I'm here to tell you that just isn't so.

Yes, the market isn't as strong as it was a few years ago.

Yes, there are lots of homes on the market.

Yes, many homes are sitting on the market longer.

Yes, sellers are wanting to get them sold, but you AREN'T holding all the cards.

Why aren't you holding all the cards?

There are a lot more buyers stepping up to the table and ready to ante up. Call volume is up. Way up! My inbox is about to explode.

Buyers recognize a good and fair price when they see it and they are moving "all in" while you're still trying to figure out how much you can take the seller for. Yes, it's your right to negotiate and get the best deal, but the "good ones" are getting lots of activity and will be the first to go.

When you snooze, you loose - even in this market.

Strange, True or Urban Legend? Missouri Trivia

Debbie DiFonzo-United Country VIP Realty-Missouri — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 21:59:08 -0600

Being a Missouri "transplant" - I've lived here since January of 2000 - I still enjoy learning about my state. It's rather fun to read these strange and unusual tidbits.

Thanks to Ryan Shaughnessy for doing all this work for us!

Hope you enjoy this read as much as I did...

Via Ryan Shaughnessy, Broker/Attorney - Your Lafayette Square Real Estate Partner (PREA Signature Realty - www.preasignaturerealty.com):

More than a State Motto - The Show Me State: The unofficial motto for the State of Missouri is "The Show Me". The phrase was coined by U.S. Congressman Willard Duncan. While giving a speech at a naval banquet in Philadelphia, he uttered the line: "I come from a state that raises corn and cotton and cockleburs and Democrats, and frothy eloquence neither convinces nor satisfies me. I am from Missouri. You have got to show me." It is debatable whether or not he was the first to coin the phrase, but his offthe cuff comments made the phrase popular.

State Animal - Stubborn as a Missouri Mule: The official state animal for Missouri is the Missouri Mule. However, no man represented the stubborn spirit of the Missouri mule more than Valentine Tapley from Pike County, Missouri. During Abraham Lincoln's campaign for the presidency, he swore that he would never shave again. True to his word, Tapley did not shave from 1860 to his death in 1910. His beard, as reported in the New York Times, was over 12 feet long.

State Capital - Three Cities, Six Building:  Missouri has had six state capitals in three different cities. The first general assembly was held at the Mansion House in St. Louis (Third and Vine). It was then moved to the Missouri Hotel in St. Louis (Maine and Morgan). In 1821, the state capital was temporarily moved to St. Charles. Finally, in 1826, it moved permanently to Jefferson City. The first state capital in Jefferson City burned in 1837 and the second burned in 1911. The present state capitol was completed in 1917.

They Sure Pass Some Odd Laws:  In Missouri, there have some good and bad laws passed. Here are some of the more interesting laws:

Ballwin: Vulgar or obscene language prohibited except in your own home.

Buckner: Yard waste may be burned any day except Sunday.

Columbia: Television antennas prohibited. 25′ satellite dish permitted.

Columbia: Clotheslines prohibited. Clothes draped over a fence permitted.

Kansas City: Minors prohibited from purchasing cap pistols - shotguns permitted.

Kansas City: Installation of bath tubs resembling animal paws prohibited.

Leadwood: Pilots eating unshelled roasted peanuts or watermelon while flying is prohibited.

Marceline: Minors can buy rolling paper and tobacco - purchase of lighters prohibited.

Marquette: Illegal for more than 4 unrelated persons to occupy the same dwelling ("The Brothel" Law)

Merryville: Women are prohibited from wearing corsets.

Mole: Frightening a baby is prohibited.

Natchez: Provide beer or other intoxicants to elephants is prohibited.

Perryville: Throwing hard objects at birds prohibited.

Purdy: Dancing is strictly prohibited.

St. Louis: Sitting on curb and drinking beer from a bucket prohibited.

St. Louis: Milkman running while on duty prohibited.

St. Louis: Parking an auto without turning off the engine is prohibited.

Springfield: Door to door salesmen prohibited from selling goods in street or screaming at cars.

University City: Four women renting an apartment together is prohibited.

University City: Owning PVC pipe is prohibited.

University City: Requesting someone to "watch over" your parked car is prohibited.

University City: Honking another person's car horn is prohibited.

However, Missourians have always found creative ways to avoid the long arm of the law. Before 1866, it was illegal to educate blacks in Missouri. The Reverend John Berry Meachum beat the law by taking his students out on a boat and holding class in the middle of the Mississippi River.

Culinary Delights and Other Food Firsts: The 1904 World's Fair held in St. Louis saw a number of first including the first ice cream cone, first iced tea, first sliced bread, and first use of the term "hot dog" to describe a sausage on a bun. Two iconic soft drinks where launched in St. Louis. Dr. Pepper was introduced at the 1904 World's Fair in St. Louis and 7-Up was created in St. Louis in 1929.  "7" was selected for the original 7-ounce containers and "UP" for the direction of the bubbles. In 1899, the first ready-mix food (known as Aunt Jemima's pancake flour) to be sold commercially was invented in St. Joseph, Missouri.

Mother Nature: Warsaw, Missouri holds the state records for the lowest temperature (-40 on February 13, 1905) and highest temperature (118 on July 14, 1954)on February 13, 1905.  In 1811, the most powerful earthquake to strike the United States occurred in New Madrid County, Missouri. The earthquake shook over 1 million square miles and was felt over 1000 miles away. In 1925, the most destructive tornado on record occurred in Annapolis, Missouri where over a three hour period it created a 980 foot wide trail of demolished buildings and left 823 people dead and 3000 injured.

Famous (or Infamous) Missourians: Missouri has had its share of famous and infamous Americans. Here are a few examples:

Jesse Woodson James was born in Kearney, Missouri. For 15 years, Frank and Jesse James robbed trains and banks throughout the United States until 1882 when he was shot and killed by Bob Ford in St. Joseph, Missouri. Ford shot James to the $10,000 reward from the Pinkerton Detectives.

Harry S. Truman was born in Lamar, Missouri.  As President of the United States, Truman ordered the use of atomic weapons against Japan at the end of World War II.

Samuel Clemens, more familiarly known as Mark Twain, was born in Florida, Missouri. He later moved to Hannibal. He started as a printer's apprentice of the Missouri Courier in Hannibal, Missouri, and later wrote for the Saturday Post in Keokuk, Iowa. He is best known for his novels - Tom Sawyer and The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn based, in part, on his years as a riverboat captain.

Laura Elizabeth Ingalls, writer of Little House on the Prairie, lived in Mansfield, Missouri. She bequeathed her copyrights and royalties to a library in Mansfield, Missouri.  However, this little library received a total of $28,000 until 1999. In 1999, the Wright County Library Board and later the State of Missouri sued Harper Collins and others for the past due royalties. It is believed that the case quietly settled for an estimated $875,000.

Area Attractions: St. Louis offers more free, major visitor attractions than anyplace outside of Washington, D.C., including the Saint Louis Art Museum, Saint Louis Zoo, Cahokia Mounds, Museum of Westward Expansion, St. Louis Science Center, Missouri History Museum, Anheuser-Busch Brewery, and Grant's Farm. In 1948, architect Eero Saarinen's design for a 630-foot stainless steel arch was chosen as a part of a nationwide competition for the monument to the spirit of the western pioneers.  In 1963, construction of the Gateway Arch began. The Gateway Arch was completed on October 28, 1965. At 630 feet tall, the Gateway Arch remains as the tallest monument constructed in the United States.

BBQ - The Tale of Two Cities: Kansas City is known for its barbeque. In 1908, Henry Perry made Kansas City BBQ famous by selling his smoked meats in an alley stand in the Garment District. He later moved to an old railroad car near the famous corner of 18th & Vine. Although Kansas City may be known for its barbeque, St. Louisans consume more barbecue sauce per capita than any other city in America.

Missouri Music: The state musical instrument is the fiddle and the state dance is the square dance. However, St. Louis is known as the home of the blues and Sedalia is known as the birthplace of classical ragtime.

Missouri - Split between The South or North: In 1854, Missourians and Kansans battled over whether Kansas would become a "free-state" or a "slave state."   Some historians claim that these pitched battles were the effective start of the civil war. Missouri was split in loyalty during the the Civil War (or War of Northern Agression). One remnant of this split is that the Police Board for the City of St. Louis is still controlled by and its members appoint by the Governor. During the Civil War, Missouri was the site of over 1000 battles - third only to Virginia and Tennessee.

Transportation: In 1870, the first train of the Atlantic-Pacific Railway, later known as St.Louis-San Francisco Railway, or "Frisco," arrived in St. Louis, Missouri. In 1912, the first successful parachute jump from a moving airplane was made by Captain Berry in St. Louis, Missouri. Kansas City has more miles of boulevards than Paris and more fountains than any city except Rome. It also has more miles of freeway per capita than any other metro area with more than 1 million residents.

A Friendly State: Missouri (tied with Tennessee) is the most "neighborly" state in the United States bordered by eight states: Illinois, Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Tennessee, and Kentucky.

Hauntings:  The movie and book "The Exorcist" was based loosely on an exorcism performed at the old Alexian Brothers Hospital on Broadway in St. Louis.

I hope you enjoyed the Missouri trivia. I don't know whether the trivia is fact or fiction - but they sure have been repeated often enough.  If you are locating to St. Louis, we would like the opportunity to show you why St. Louis is a great place to call home (beyond its interesting trivia).

Interested in Lafayette Square, Soulard or the other great neighborhoods of St. Louis? Contact Ryan Shaughnessy at PREA Signature Realty at 314-971-4381 or by e-mail to Ryan@PREASignatureRealty.com.

Lebanon MO area real estate moving again... my buyers found out the hard way!

Debbie DiFonzo-United Country VIP Realty-Missouri — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 20:22:52 -0600

What an incredible day!

I am working with a wonderful couple that have three daughters. They transferred to the Lebanon Missouri area a few years ago and have been renting since then. Feeling they will stay here, without another transfer in the near future, they decided to buy. They have been to the bank, they have been pre-approved and have money in the bank for a down payment. All the pieces are in place to make an offer on a home.

Earlier this week, we looked at a foreclosure in Phillipsburg Missouri. Our choices have been some what limited as they want to stay in the Laclede County R-1 school district. There isn't a whole lot for sale in this school district, as it ranks well in the State and has a very strong reputation in the area. There is limited turn over within the boundaries of the district.

So... back to my story. We look at the home. A few family members look over the home. The buyers made a list of potential repairs and went home to talk about an offer. They later called to say they would be in Friday morning, their day off, to write an offer.

This morning, we meet at the Lebanon MO office and I pull up the data sheet. I go on to pull up our state forms software, flipping back to the MLS data sheet. Upon doing so, the page refreshes...what do I see? The home is now under contract? What? Five minutes ago it still showed as "active."

Placing a call to the listing agent, I find out that the REO company did indeed accept an offer this morning from another local buyer.

My buyers lost a home that had everything they were looking for - the right school district, a little bit of land, no major repairs, a storm shelter or safe room and at least two full baths.

As of today, the home had been on the market 169 days. They thought they had plenty of time. They thought it wasn't going any where any time soon. They thought homes weren't moving - that is what the media told them.

The morning was an emotional roller coaster.

Our market has seen an increase in Internet traffic and an increase in telephone calls. It looks like we'll also see an increase in pendings and solds in the near future.

If you're thinking of buying or selling, why wait?

~~~~~~~~~~

Contact Debbie DiFonzo, Broker, United Country VIP Realty, at 417-468-5900 to list your property for sale or to purchase a property in Marshfield, Conway, Phillipsburg, Lebanon, Long Lane, or Buffalo, Missouri.

Contact Debbie at: Debbie@ucvip.com

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phone or text: (417) 631-7234

Visit Our Website

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TeamKnowles, Spouses Selling Houses! 2925 E Battlefield Rd Springfield, MO 65804

phone or text: (417) 631-7234 Visit Our Website

Stop Missouri Double Taxation on real estate and say Yes to a new constitutional amendment

40 acre farm outside of Lebanon MO - Enjoy all Ozark living has to offer!

Almost 30 acres of light woods with pond and spring-fed creek - near Mennonite Community and State Park

Horse Property in the Ozarks for sale: 75 Sixty Six Dr, Niangua MO 65713

Custom horse barn plus all brick home in Niangua MO, Webster County Missouri - offered for sale

Why I Love Mondays!

Home in a Missouri Cave - in need of financing - or will have to be sold

So.. How much WILL the Sellers take?

Do you own property in the Conway MO school district? Read on....

Four reasons to list and SELL your Misouri property NOW

Do you know if Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac holds your loan?

If you decide to snooze, you may just lose - now is a great time to SELL

Strange, True or Urban Legend? Missouri Trivia

Lebanon MO area real estate moving again... my buyers found out the hard way!

TeamKnowles, Spouses Selling Houses!

2925 E Battlefield Rd
Springfield, MO 65804

phone or text: (417) 631-7234

Visit Our Website