Debbie DiFonzo's Missouri Real Estate Blog

Little House Buffet in Mansfield, MO offered for sale

2008-07-24T23:42:40Z

Turnkey operation! Little House Buffet
Near the Laura Ingalls Wilder Home and Museum in Mansfield, MO

Located on the corner of Hwy 60 and Hwy 5, the Little House Buffet is just minutes away from the historic Laura Ingalss Wilder homestead. A popular destination for families and school children in the State of Missouri.

Opened in 1960, just three years after Laura's death, the Little House Buffet has been a staple in the area, known for home cooked food at reasonable prices. The restaurant seats approx. 140 people and is located on a corner, across from a gas station and next to a motel.

All equipment is included in the sale, including but not limited to the buffet table, all tables, chairs, kitchen equipment and so much more. This really is a turn key operation for someone or for a family.

The corner location offers this property a clean slate - perfect location for catfish house, pizza parlor, antique mall, museum or keep the buffet. With over 3,000 square feet, the choices are endless.

Mansfield, MO has become known as "The Crossroads of the Ozarks". Convenient to all activities and sights in the Ozarks, Mansfield explodes in fun and history each year for Wilder Days. (If you hurry, you can celebrate this year, on September 12th and 13th, in your new business.)

The Little House Buffet is shown by appointment only please. The business is open seven days a week.

Asking Price for the complete package: $199,975

Offered for sale by: United Country VIP Realtyin Lebanon MO and Marshfield, MO
Debbie DiFonzo, Broker

Conway, MO receives grant for new storm siren

2008-07-22T21:46:42Z

Last night, the Mayor of the City of Conway appeared before the Laclede County R-1 School Board at their regularly scheduled meeting for the month of July.

One point of business before the school board: moving the existing Conway storm siren.

The City of Conway recently applied for and received a grant to purchase a new storm siren.

The existing siren is located in downtown Conway while the school sits on the Northern fringe of town.

The City offered to move the old, existing siren to school property with the City paying the cost of relocating the siren. The District was asked to approve the addition of the siren. They were also asked to sign a utility easement allowing Laclede Electric to place an additional pole on district property.

A motion was made reflecting the request of the City and the motion passed 7 - 0.

Just Listed: 30 acres +/- wooded (xxxx Dawn Road, Laquey, MO 65536)

2008-07-22T13:44:34Z

30 acres, more or less, all wooded near the Gasconade River
Dawn Road, Laquey, MO 65536

Quiet and off the beaten path - the gently sloping terrain of this piece makes it the perfect Hunters Get-a-way. Deer and turkey are plentiful. Many nice spots for your cabin or even a walk-out basement home.

This property is restricted to no mobile homes, but other wise is only limited by your imagination!

Easy drive to Fort Leonard Wood, one of the largest Army installations in the United States.

Located in Laclede County, Missouri, near the Pulaski County line.

Additional 104 acres available across the road. Some owner financing may be available.

Offered for sale by: United Country VIP Realty in Lebanon, MO
List Price: $63,000

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Just Listed: xx Dawn Road, Laquey, MO 65534 (104 acres near Gasconade River)

2008-07-20T14:12:11Z

Offered by: United Country VIP Realty in Lebanon, MO
Vacant land ready for cattle, horses and your new home!

You've found the perfect piece! 104 acres more or less near the Gasconade River. Excellent road frontage with three gates for easy entry. All weather creek runs through the property. Seller currently runs cattle - many nice hay fields - but would be perfect for your horses too. Wild life galore! Deer, turkey and squirrels too!

Many pretty home sites, including a spot or two for a walk out basement home. Well on property, along with electricity. Older Barn. Property is restricted to no mobile homes.

Shown by appointment, please.

Listed Price: $295,000

Realtors in South Central Missouri DO NOT report to the County Assessor

2008-07-20T00:00:14Z

United Country VIP Realty does not report sold information to Assessors office

After reading Tammara Hanna-Anansi post: Should the public know the purchase price of your home in Scottsdale? I was reminded of a conversation I had this week with a couple from Texas. We were talking about the information available here in Missouri and what we provided to our county assessor.

According to our client, Texas Realtors report sale prices to the local assessor. Other information, such as photos and floor plans are also available, usually online.

According to Tammara, there seems to be a similiar set up in Arizona. Searching tax records in Scottsdale will give you the sales information and "...of not only every home or every Real Estate purchase ever purchased in Maricopa County under that name, but also the purchase price or sale price, down payment and loan amount (or cash purchase)."

Here in South Central Missouri, most Assessor offices are not online.

Laclede County is the exception. Free of charge, we can go online and obtain basic property information: parcel id, account number, limited legal description, acreage, tax amount, assessed amount, base square footage, and age. (We do not know a sales price. If financed, we can find out LOAN amount.)

Webster County does allow the local MLS to subscribe to an online version of the same information mentioned above. However, if one is not a member of the MLS, this information is not available online.

Dallas County is not online at all. Neither is Wright County.

Local Realtors/MLS systems do not report sold information to the Assessors office.

The Assessors do send a form, asking new owners to voluntarily disclose the sales price of their purchase.

The limited information can sometimes be frustrating to a Realtor, but most home owners appreciate the security and privacy of keeping their information to themselves.

My 1st Flip Video at the Dairy Queen in Buffalo, MO (and a few tips for the Flip)

2008-07-19T23:02:47Z

A few weeks ago, I posted about my obsession with the Flip Ultra Video recorder. After reading numerous posts on Active Rain about this pocket sized camcorder, I just had to have one!

After pouring over Ebay - who wants to pay full price? - my pink Flip Ultra was on it's way.

Once my box arrived, life got in the way! My new Flip sat on my desk, lonely and waiting.

Tonight, the kids have friends over and we decided to make the 14 mile trek to Dairy Queen. It's warm and humid; ice cream is what we need crave. On the way out the door, I grab my new toy tech tool and take it with me.

In just a minute or two, I had the batteries in and the little machine on. It really was that simple.

I am still amazed at how light weight the Flip is! It feels like it is missing the "guts" - how can something this light work?

As we were eating our ice cream, I turned the Flip to on and used it for the first time. You can hear the kids asking me what I am doing. My son tells the others "its for her website" and my husband tells me I look "like a tourist."

WARNING: Do not eat or drink while watching this video.

So...

A few notes to myself:

Buy a tripod.
Utilize the zoom in and zoom out function.
Remember - the Flip records sound!
Carry the Flip everywhere - it's so easy to use!

I used AOL Video to upload my first try at making a movie. It was simple to use with one exception: I now know you must have the movie uploaded as a PUBLIC movie in order to obtain the code to embed the video. I really didn't want this on their site, but I had no choice.

I don't know enough yet to be dangerous. And, I don't know if the quality will be enhanced by using one of the other video platforms. (such as YouTube) But, I do know I'm back to being obsessed with the Flip!

(I don't think the kids will let me forget my time as a tourist at the Dairy Queen in Buffalo, MO)

5 Historic Homes Offered For Sale in Lebanon, MO

2008-07-19T00:02:54Z

History tells us that in 1820, Jesse Ballew was one of the first white settlers to call, what was later to become Laclede County, home. In the years to come, more settlers followed. Land was surveyed to create Laclede County. In 1849 Lebanon was created as the county seat of Laclede County, Missouri.

Lebanon has a rich history of homes and buildings used for business. Many of the historic homes have been well cared for and remain today.

Since Lebanon and Laclede County have limited zoning laws, many of the historic homes are currently being used as Bed and Breakfasts, hair salons, tea rooms, offices or antique stores. Your imagination is probably the only limitation!

Here is a sampling of five historic homes available in Lebanon, MO:

2001 Beck Lane, Lebanon, MO 65536
MLS# 15875
$495,000
Built in 1908 and has 3,600 square feet on 20 acres
4 bedrooms and 3 1/2 baths
Fireplace and basement

Offered by: Realty Executives of Lebanon

505 E. Elm St, Lebanon, MO 65536
Located on Historic Rte 66
UC # 50425
$295,900
Built in 1930 and has 3,500 square feet on 1.17 acres
6 bedrooms and 3 1/2 baths
Basement

Offered by: United Country VIP Realty

250 S. Washington St, Lebanon, MO 65536
MLS# 17333
$219,000
Built in 1912 and has 2,700 square feet on .29 acres
3 bedrooms and 2 1/2 baths
Fireplace and basement

Offered by: RE/MAX Professionals Inc.

551 S. Washington Street, Lebanon, MO 65536
MLS# 17159
$184,500
Built in 1890 and has 2,800 square feet on .60 acres
4 bedrooms and 4 baths
Four fireplaces and basement

Offered by: United Country VIP Realty

459 N. Madison,
Lebanon, MO 65536
MLS# 18255
$162,500
Built in 1890 and has 2,500 square feet on .45 acres
4 bedrooms and 2 baths
Fireplace and basement

Offered by: Peggy Logan & Associates

Copyright © 2008 By Debbie DiFonzo, All Rights Reserved. The information provided herein is obtained from the Lebanon Board of Realtors MLS as of July 18, 2008, multiple sources and is deemed accurate but not guaranteed.

Introducting: Long Lane Missouri - country meets tradition

2008-07-17T15:33:40Z

Long Lane, MO is a rural town located in South Central Missouri, in Dallas County. You'll find Long Lane almost 12 miles east of Buffalo, MO and 12 miles west of Lebanon, MO along Hwy 32. To say Long Lane is a small town is probably an understatement - the "city limit" sign doesn't list a population nor does "Long Lane" show up on the US Census Bureau map! Locals estimate the population to be around 90 people.

Travel along Hwy 32 into Long Lane, and you'll find the local post office. (Long Lane, MO does have it's own zip code: 65590)

Then you'll come across the fire department, an all volunteer unit. My husband, Ray, is the secretary of the Long Lane FD - a job they say he'll hold for life! The department relies heavily on local dues and state/federal grants.

Past the fire department you'll find the general store and Miss Daisy - a life long Long Lane resident! And before you leave town you'll see the tire repair shop on your left along with the sign pointing to the Long Lane Fair Grounds off to your right.

It's here at the "fair grounds" backing to the local school, that you'll find a rich 27 year tradition. Families from near and far come to Long Lane, MO on the Fourth of July - The Long Lane Lions Club plays host to a BBQ, live music and one of the largest fireworks displays you'll find in South Central Missouri.

Our family first stumbled upon Long Lane fireworks while in the area house hunting. We had looked at a home that holiday weekend and the owners were kind enough to recommend Long Lane. We've been attending ever since - I do believe this was year number eleven! We've only lived in the area a little over eight years.

Sitting with family and friends, I tried to get a grasp on just home many people had invaded Long Lane this 4th. I am guessing on the low side, Long Lane played host to over 750 people this 4th of July night! The children played at the playgrounds, the adults sang along to the music. Laughter rang over the land.

A hush fell over the crowd only to be replaced by ooo's and ahhh's - the town of Long Lane held us captive for 45 minutes with their light show. A show to put others to shame!

So thank you, Long Lane Missouri, for bringing together families and friends; for reminding us of tradition and how good it feels to be free!

Missouri State Sales Tax Holiday 2008

2008-07-16T20:16:25Z

Missouri state statute establishes a sales tax holiday effective for a three-day period beginning at 12:01 a.m. on the first Friday in August and ending at midnight on the Sunday following. This year our sales tax holiday will be from Friday August 1st until Sunday, August 3rd, 2008. Most items that you'd buy for back-to-school, such as clothing, school supplies, computers, and other items as defined by the statute, are exempt from sales tax during this time period.

Local counties as well as towns/cities can choose not to participate in the holiday. If a local jurisdiction chooses not to participate, the state's portion of the tax rate (4.225%) will still be exempt on the qualifying items during the sales tax holiday.

Locally, Laclede County and Lebanon are participating. No sales tax will be collected during the holiday period. Webster County and Marshfield have chosen not to participate in the holiday, meaning only the state sales tax will be waved. In Dallas County, the county will not participate but the City of Buffalo will participate, waiving the city tax.

There are a few guidelines to keep in mind.

The sales tax exemption is limited to the following:

Clothing – any article having a taxable value of $100 or less
School supplies – not to exceed $50 per purchase
Computer software – taxable value of $350 or less
Personal computers – not to exceed $3,500
Computer peripheral devices – not to exceed $3,500

There are items that are totally exempt from the sales tax holiday:

watches, watchbands, jewelry
handbags, handkerchiefs, umbrellas
scarves, ties, headbands, belt buckles
radios, CD players, headphones
sporting equipment
portable or desktop telephones
copiers or other office equipment
furniture and fixtures

For a complete list of counties, cities and towns, to see who is participating and who is not, visit the website for the Missouri Department of Revenue.

Just Listed: 1557 Hwy 64, Tunas, MO 65764

2008-07-15T21:49:44Z

New Construction!

Find Your Freedom in Missouri at 1557 Hwy 64, Tunas, MO

This two bedroom, two full bath home was recently finished and has never been lived in. The over sized country kitchen has custom cabinets, two pantries and a whole lot of counter space. All of the appliances, including a microwave, are included.

Off the kitchen is the mud room/laundry room that opens onto the back deck.

On the other side of the kitchen enjoy your living room with vaulted ceilings and lots of front windows. Two bedrooms and two full baths round out the main floor.

Head on down to your full, unfinished walk out basement. Plumed for a second bath, you can finish this space off to best suit your needs: additional bedrooms, office space, kids play room, family room - whatever you may need.

Sitting on just shy of three acres, you'll enjoy lush green grass, mature trees and lots of wildlife. Located 4 miles from Bennett Springs State Park, about 10 miles to the lake at Pomme de Terre State Park, and 5 miles to the local Mennonite coummunity, this home offers you wonderful country living with very few worries. On a hard surface road, between Buffalo and Lebanon, MO the location is convenient to all amenities.

Offered for sale at $124,890

For more details and to arrange your showing, please call or send a quick email.

Let United Country VIP Realty help you Find Your Freedom in South Central Missouri.

More photos at: UCtheOzarks.com

10 questions you shoud be asked when selling your Southwest Missouri Property

2008-07-12T23:00:14Z

Keeping and filing important documents while living in your home can pay off when you go to sell. Serious buyers will ask questions about your home and your property.

Being able to answer a few questions can go a long way in assisting your Realtor in marketing your home and in keeping the interest of your buyer.

Here are 10 questions your Realtor will probably ask you when listing your Southwest Missouri home:

1. How much do you pay in property taxes? Do you have a copy of last years tax bill?

2. How much does it cost to heat and cool your home? What do you pay a year for propane? What do you pay a month for electricity?

3. Is your propane tank owned or leased? If it is owned, do you have a receipt?

4. How old are the appliances that stay with the home?

5. Are the appliances still under warranty?

6. Is the roof, siding, central air under warranty? If so, is that warranty transferable?

7. Do you have garbage service? If so, who provides your garbage service? Do you recycle?

8. Where does the bus stop? How far is your home from the school?

9. Who provides your home owners insurance? Have you ever filed a claim?

10. Are you on a public or private road? If you're on a private road, is there a road agreement?

Bonus: Have you had any other major repairs done during your ownership? Do you have receipts? Do you have diagrams or other pertinent information?

Having information readily available to your Realtor and to your buyer, will help buyers make a decision on your home - Is your property the right fit for them?

~~~~~~~~

Seymour, MO foreclosed homes as of July 2008

2008-07-12T14:01:03Z

South Central Missouri has not seen the high rate of foreclosures like other parts of the country. Our office receives calls daily for people looking for REO and bank owned properties. Sometimes, I don't think they believe me when I tell them we do not have pages and pages of foreclosed homes.

If you are looking for a foreclosed, fixer upper, sold as is in the Seymour, MO area, I found only two on the market as of July 12, 2008:

MLS # 814320
Rt 2, Box 2770
Seymour, MO 65746

2 bedrooms, 1 bath
6.3 acres
List price: $45,000

Offered by:
Kennemer Realty

MLS # 813342
387 Cornerstone Drive
Seymour, MO 65746

3 bedrooms, 2 full baths
11.5 acres
List price: $135,900

Offered by:
Coldwell Banker - Vanguard

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Copyright © 2008 By Debbie DiFonzo, All Rights Reserved. The information provided herein is obtained from multiple sources and is deemed accurate but not guaranteed. Based on a search of the Greater Springfield Board of Realtors MLS system, July 12, 2008

Energy Saving is encouraged by Laclede Electric Coopeative in Lebanon, MO

2008-07-12T11:46:32Z

Most of Missouri participates in electric cooperatives. These are local, member owned and member controlled electric companies.

My home and our Lebanon office belong to the Laclede Electric Cooperative and our Marshfield office belongs to the Webster Electric Cooperative.

Each year, there is an annual meeting, where members of the co-op elect their board of directors, learn about the direction of the co-op and possibly receive a "capital credit" check - money given back to the members, similar to a dividend check.

When I first moved to this area, I was always surprised to receive energy saving tips in with my electric bill and at the annual meeting. Most businesses are focused on making money. Why would our electric company want us to save money? Simple. It is member owned and operated. As a member, I want to save money.

Laclede Electric is now sponsoring the Doug Rye "Home Remedies" Show on KJEL radio here in Lebanon. For the past few Saturdays, I've been listening and learning from Doug Rye, a master on energy efficiency building and energy audits. (I have to admit, I had never heard of Doug Rye before hearing the promo ads for his show! Now I am hooked!)

In just a week or two, I've picked up a whole list of great energy efficient tips for your home. Here are just five:

Homes need insulation. (Doug is a strong advocate of cellulose.) Goes hand in hand with #4 below.
Attics attract heat, so it does not make efficiency sense to have your duct work up there. Duct work should be in "conditioned" spaces, such as your crawl space or basement.
A simple win win for the environment and your energy bill: shade trees. Keep a few of those trees around your home.
Caulk is your friend! Growing up I always heard a home had to "breathe." Not so, says Doug. Use caulk to keep cool air out in the winter and cool air in during the summer.
Wrapping your water heater can save you $$$ - In the winter, water heaters give off heat, having to work that much more to keep you in hot water. In summer, water heaters give off heat, warming up the space you're paying to cool.

For more on Doug Rye, visit: Doug Rye

For more information on Missouri Electric Cooperatives, visit: AMEC

Why I moved to Lebanon, Missouri

2008-07-10T23:29:36Z

Several times a week I am asked, "Why did you move to Missouri?" or "Why did you move to Lebanon, Missouri?"

I usually give the standard answer, "My parents moved here. I wanted my children to be near their grandparents."

Nothing in life is that simple, is it? No not really. Our reasons for moving really are more complex than that.

I grew up in a suburb of Chicago.Back "in the day" we had a quite community, a close knit family. I could walk to the mall with friends. I could go to the store and be greeted by name. I couldn't get away with skipping school - someone who knew my parents would for sure see me and tell. I couldn't say I was going one place and end up somewhere else - my parents always found out!

With growth, comes change. My town became part of the high tech corridor and ballooned. Our fifteen minute ride to the mall soon took 35 minutes by car due to the traffic. I no longer knew the waitress at the corner restaurant. Bagel shops replaced the locally owned bakery. Our hometown newspaper, originally published once a week, went to three times AND had sections! Our downtown suddenly had a parking garage.

Things change.

While I have wonderful memories of growing up in Naperville, IL the town changed into a place no longer familiar to me and to my family.

It wasn't "bad" - it was different.

Coming down to Lebanon and the surrounding areas in Missouri, my husband and I found much of what we remembered from our youth:

A sense of family, community and belonging. They say a small town is where you know who's marriage is good and who's check isn't -- There is some truth to that.

We wanted that sense of community, that sense of family, that sense of security for our own children.

We didn't really realize what we were looking for until we found it. We found "our freedom" in Lebanon, Missouri.

Maybe, some things don't change.

Horse Property! 18926 Hwy Z, Falcon, MO 65407

2008-07-10T12:55:39Z

United Country VIP Realty in Lebanon and Marshfield, MO
is pleased to bring you yet another prime horse property. Located in south east Laclede County, this property has nice pasture and a million dollar view... More details below and be sure to view the visual tour!
Let us help you, Find Your Freedom in Missouri.

Click Here To View Flyer
View Flyer Web Page

Top 10 Summer Tips to get your Southwest Missouri Property SOLD

2008-07-07T22:35:59Z

It's getting a little warm here in Missouri. The outside thermostat is set to "heat."

As the summer heat rises, the number of buyers in the area is increasing as well.

So, what can you do to make sure your home/property in Southwest Missouri is on the summer sales list?

Here are a five tips:

1. Be sure your air conditioning is working properly and be sure to have it set to a comfortable temperature when you know buyers may be coming through your home. If you have ceiling fans, this may be a great time to use them. They are economical and can help move cool air through your home.

2. Make sure your curb appeal is in tip top shape. Lawns should be trimmed and groomed. Add flowers, add color. Have the kids pick up their toys - it's not good to have a potential buyer stepping around your sons bike on the sidewalk.

3. During the dog days of summer, buyers are looking at the areas their pets will occupy. Keep pet areas clean. Highlight shade and water sources. Fences should be in good repair.

4. Patios, decks, screened-in-porches are on everyone's mind during the summer months. Have them clean, inviting and attractive. Clean your patio furniture and arrange it in a way that doesn't block the view from inside the home. Make it easy for house hunters to envision their next barbecue at your their new home.

5. Clean your windows until they sparkle! Have blinds and curtains open so plenty of natural light illuminates the interior.

If you're selling land in Missouri during the summer, here are five more tips of the trade:

1. Make sure there is an entry way into the property and any driveways are accessible. If rain or age has made the driveway rough, get some gravel or a grader to make an easier entry.

2. Mow high grass around the drive. Allow a path for your future buyer to get out of the vehicle, to walk around, to soak up the view.

3. Cut low branches. No one wants to be slapped with a branch or have their car scratched coming up the drive.

4. Flag the boundaries. The corner posts may usually be easy to see, but often as the summer grass and leaves grow, they block the boundaries. Add orange flags or some other easy to see marker.

5. Make sure gates are easy to open! Having your buyer climbing fence or through barb wire is not usually a strong selling point. Make it easy for the buyer to see the positive attributes of your property.

Can you think of a few more? If so, be sure to leave a comment below.

I may also provide you with additional tips for your Laclede, Dallas or Webster County property.

Roaming Around Marshifeld, Missouri - things to do North, South, East and West

2008-07-05T20:45:11Z

While in Marshfield, MO be sure to visit Walnut Springs Farm Museum and see the replica of the Hubble Space Telescope.

Marshfield's location then makes it the perfect starting point from which to explore the surrounding country side. You'll find scenic land and find a variety of things to do. No matter which way you choose to go, you'll find something to do. Start with North, South, East or West - then start again and explore the rest!

NORTH

Bennett Spring State Park - the most popular state park in the State of Missouri as well as one of the most popular trout fishing parks in the Mid-West

Leadmine and Tunas, MO - Mennonite community featuring a general store, bulk food store, bakery, furniture store, quilt making, nursery and other community stores.

Independent Stave Company - produces more than half of all the wooden barrels made in the world. White oak is turned into barrels used to age fine bourbons and wines. Take the tour yourself

SOUTH

Branson, MO - One of the top travel destinations in the US, Branson will satisfy your every desire. Shopping? Choose fine shopping or outlet malls. Shows? Big name entertainers, musical shows, magic madness and more. Museums? Titanic, War, Dinasours. Water? Whitewater Park, Table Rock Lake, Grand Country Inn

Laura Ingalls Wilder Home and Museum - Here Laura Ingalls Wilder settled with her husband and family. In her later years, she wrote her best selling "Little House" series while living here in Mansfield, MO

Mountain Home, Arkansas - Lakes, rivers, golf courses and antiques. An adventure all in itself, you'll find something to do here no matter what day of the week, what time of year.

EAST

Rosewood Farms - Located in rural Hartville, MO this is a one-of-a-kind country experience. Walking into Rosewood, your senses will go wild. Smell the homemade chocolates, hear the soft music, see the colorful candles, wooden crafts and quilts. Enjoy the tea room and take home a few chocolates - pick from over 35 varieties.

Smittle Cave - Missouri is known as the "Cave State." Open from April 15 to May 15 and the entire month of September, you can book your cave adventure. The cave is kept locked but upon arriving for your appointment, you'll be provided with the key.

Fort Leonard Wood - the largest Army installation in the United States, Ft. Wood is the home of the engineering school, chemical defense and military police schools. Over 25,000 soldiers train here annually and it is one of the only installations having all branches of the military present on base.

WEST

Fantastic Caverns - Drive through this natural wonder, enjoying the cool temperatures and vivid colors.

Wilson's Creek National Battlefield - The site of one of the first major battles of the Civil War. (First battle west of the Mississippi) Walk or drive through the battle grounds, visit the museum and have a picnic in the park. For any history buff, this cannot be missed.

Bass Pro Shops - Visit the original Bass Pro Shop, located in Springfield, Missouri. See the salt water aquarium, indoor waterfall, the snapping turtle and so much more. Even if you plan on not buying a thing, this is a museum in itself and worth the visit.

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Saying good-bye to our elementary school principle AND real estate - Conway, MO

2008-07-03T20:26:19Z

I've written this post a hundred times in my mind.

It's been six weeks and I still can't get it down, not really.

It's too hard to say good bye.

May 23rd was our last day of regular school at Conway Elementary in Conway, Missouri. The following Tuesday, we started summer school and today, the 3rd of July, our summer school came to a close.

Our long time principle is now officially retired. We said our good byes, teary eyed.

I don't think Mr. Hibbs will be surprised should he read this post - I think he would expect me to relate his departure to real estate. Mr. Hibbs is a lover of people and children - I spent many hours trying to convince him real estate should be his next calling.

I finally realized how I could write a post about Mr. Hibbs - I had to relate the experience to real estate.

When I first *saw* Mr. Hibbs, we had just moved to Missouri. My son was a new born; my daughter getting ready to go into pre-school. We have a Lebanon, MO address, so I called about the screening process. I was told we were not in Lebanon schools, but in the Conway district; I should call there.

I called the school and had a nice chat. I was encouraged to stop by, fill out the necessary forms and have a little visit.

A few days later, I made my way up to the elementary school, unannounced. I just happened to time my visit to the end of school. Buses were lined up in front, preparing for the their passengers.

I stepped into the foyer just in time to see ordered chaos.

Two halls meet by the front doors, the main office at the corner. Out side the office was a taller gentleman, standing, smiling, giving high-5's to the older kids, hugs to the younger ones. This stranger to me knew every child s name. He told them to have a good night, asked quickly about their test and reminded them to behave on the bus.

This first impression of Mr. Hibbs has stayed with me, to this day, like it happened only yesterday. It was a powerful statement to the man, to the principle and to the school. That first impression was positive and long lasting.

I remind you that the first impression of your home, your land, your office is also long lasting. It's important to make it a positive one. You never know what little action, what little thing, may have the greatest impact of all. The weeds in the front flower bed, the broken step, a missing window - is that the first impression you want your buyer to leave with? The lush green lawn, the new gutters and roof, the new tile flooring in the kitchen - is that the lasting impression of your home your buyer will leave with?

Everyday should be a good day. Mr. Hibbs wanted every child to have a good day. Do you want you, your Team and your clients to have a good day, every day? To your actions help lead them that way?

Mr. Hibbs had no idea he was going to have a visitor that day. And, really, who was I? I was a new comer to this area. I knew no one. It didn't matter. What I saw that day was ever lasting, not only in my mind, but in the actions of Mr. Hibbs.

The selfish part of doesn't want to see someone else giving those high-5's. But I know Mr. Hibbs has earned his right of retirement. He has earned his right to go fishing whenever he wants to. He can take the boat out on the lake without a second thought.

So, thank you Mr. Hibbs for great memories and a positive experience. I know each and every child in the Conway school district has their own lasting - positive - impression.

Mr. Hibbs, dressed as MAP Man.

Teachers thow water balloons at MAP Man.

Final words of wisdom by Mr. Hibbs, aka MAP Man

A final MAP Man hug.

LOCALISM FEATURED: Ten Fun Facts about Lebanon, MO

2008-07-03T14:48:45Z

Lebanon, MO is the county seat of Laclede County in Missouri and is strategically located in the heart of the Ozarks. One of the benefits of living in Laclede or even in Webster County - there is easy access to any place you'd like to go!

Located in the south central part of the state, Lebanon is only 30 miles to Fort Leonard Wood, 40 miles to Lake of the Ozarks, 47 miles to Springfield, 165 miles to St Louis, 90 miles to Branson and 170 miles to Kansas City. If you can't get where you are going via Interstate 44, I-70 is just up the way or find you way on any one of the other major highways crossing through Lebanon.

If you're on your way to Lebanon or if you've already been here, there are a few fun facts you may not know:

1. Lebanon is known as the "aluminum boat capital of the world" with companies such as Lowe, Tracker, G3 and Sundancer having factories here.

2. Bennett Springs State Park, located west of Lebanon's city limits, is the most visited state park in the State of Missouri.

3. Laclede County is in the top 10 in the state for cow/calf pairs, with Missouri ranking second only to Texas in the number of cow/calf pairs sold.

4. The world's largest barrel factory is located in Lebanon, producing more than 50% of the barrels made in the world.

5. Lebanon is the host of The Brumley Sing, known across America as a premier gospel music event.

6. Lebanon, MO was first called Wyota but was renamed Lebanon, after Lebanon, TN - the hometown of a leading citizen.

7. Lebanon is home to the largest Case knife dealer in the world, Shepherd Hills Factory Outlet.

8. Twelve grand champion fox trotters have come from Laclede County.

9. Historic Route 66 made it's way through Lebanon in 1926, with the purpose of carrying apples from growers around Lebanon to the bigger cities, such as Chicago.

10. Lebanon will again be a host city for the "Tour of Missouri" - patterned after the Tour de France. An expected 120 cyclists will push off from Lebanon on Thursday, September 11, 2008, riding out this leg of the race to Rolla, MO

~~~~~~~~~

Contact Debbie DiFonzo, Broker, United Country VIP Realty to list your property for sale or to purchase a property in Laclede, Dallas, Webster or Wright Counties in Missouri.

Traveling in Missouri? Don't forget the REDBOX

2008-07-02T16:43:56Z

I had seen them around town. They're rather hard to miss, these big red boxes with video touch screens.

I had no idea what they really were for, less alone how to use them or what to use them for.

Then, I was at a birthday party for a friend. That friend had a friend in town from Kansas.

Now, these Kansas folks had it going on. Not only did they know about the red box - they were using it.

The red box allows you to either go on line or just pull over in front of the darn thing, select a movie, swipe a credit or debit card and be on your way.

In a matter of seconds you can be watching a new release movie.

No more video rental hassles. No wondering if the movie is in stock - you can go to red box.com, select your location and do a check before even leaving the door. No kids asking for candy, magazines and games.

When you're done, return the movies to ANY red box location.

Perfect solution for people traveling - let the kids pick out a movie today and when they're tired of it tomorrow, find the nearest red box to return. For only a dollar a night, it's an inexpensive way to keep the kids occupied in the car. And, it saves on bringing a whole suitcase full of movies from home!

Here in Lebanon, MO we have two red box locations and in Marshfield, MO we have two as well. Check your McDonald's, as I do believe they are part owner in the red box concept. Has to make you ask, why didn't I think of that!

~~~~~~~

Contact Debbie DiFonzo, Broker, United Country VIP Realty to list your property for sale or to purchase a property in Laclede, Webster, Wright and Dallas Counties in Missouri.

Guard Dog? Not in Missouri. It's Guard Llama

2008-06-30T23:11:25Z

A few weeks ago, I wrote a boring post asking a bunch of questions about multi-list systems. Since I had no real clip art to add value to my post, I threw in a photo of a llama.

I did not get the answers that I was looking for in that post, but I did receive a variety of questions about the photo, about the llama.

Llamas are very common in Missouri. In fact, even my parents have two of them: Peanuts and Emperor. Hollywood made the llama a household name. (Remember: The Emperor's New Grove?)

But, Missouri farmers and ranch owners raised the status of the llama years ago: Llamas are very effective as guard animals for protecting cattle, goats and sheep from predators.

Llamas naturally do not like dogs, horses and coyotes.

Therefore it's very common to see a llama among a herd. Llamas are an effective, low cost, low maintenance, non-lethal method to reduce loss on goat, cattle, and poultry ranches.

Llamas blend well with most herds and do not mind being alone. They eat, drink and sleep right along side of the herd they are with. For reasons unknown to me, farmers will tell you - one llama with a herd is more effective than having multiple llamas in the same field..

So, exactly how does a llama help reduce loss?

It is common for a llama to give a call of alarm, walking to or running toward the predator; chasing, kicking, or pawing the predator; herding the sheep/cattle/goats away from danger; or positioning themselves between the herd and the predator. Llamas can be very aggressive if need be.

Llamas are a farmers version of a guard dog. No leash required.

Neighbors' Llama

(baby goats, far right)

Peanut eating a snack of hay

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.
Serving all of South Central Missouri including Laclede, Dallas and Webster Counties.

To view all our listings and auctions, visit:
UCtheOzarks.com
FindYourFreedomMissouri.com

Contact Debbie at: Debbie@ucvip.com

Fireworks on sale in Missouri

2008-06-28T13:15:52Z

The sale of fireworks is legal in the State of Missouri. Fireworks stores and tents started popping up around the area in mid-June, as fireworks can be sold from June 20th until July 10th. Then again December 20th until January 2nd.

The Division of Fire Safety enforces the rules and regulations of fireworks here in Missouri. Approximately 1,350 permits are issued yearly to manufacturers, wholesalers, jobbers, distributors, and retailers of fireworks. In our area, fireworks can be sold in Laclede County but cannot be sold within the city limits of Lebanon.

Whether you prefer to shop indoors or out, there's something here for everyone!

~~~~~~~~~~~~

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.

To view all our listings and auctions, visit:
UCtheOzarks.com
FindYourFreedomMissouri.com

Contact Debbie at: Debbie@ucvip.com

Snipping Tool in Windows Vista

2008-06-27T21:35:48Z

Since first reading about Twitter here on Active Rain, I pay a visit to the site once a day, if I remember. I have said in numerous comments, I really don't "get" Twitter.

Tonight, thanks to Matt Wilkins I still don't get Twitter but I am thankful I took the time to sign in. Matt posted a twit about Microsoft's Snipping Tool in Vista.

I know, I know, you're probably thinkings, so what?

Every time I see someone using Snag It, I think to myself, "Deb, you really need to visit that site and buy that program." But, I've never taken the time to actually do it.

You have to admit, being able to snag a few words, part of a screen shot or even part of a photo is pretty darn cool. (Talking to one's self probably isn't all that cool.)

Now, I no longer have to remind myself to visit Snag It, thanks to Matt.

I followed the link he provided to the Microsoft website and saved the Snipping Tool to my tool bar. Now I can snip away when ever my heart desires.

Granted, the Microsoft tool doesn't have all the bells and whistles as Snag It, but hey, for free and for the peace of mind of not talking to myself, it'll do just fine!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

To view all our listings and auctions, visit:
UCtheOzarks.com
FindYourFreedomMissouri.com

Contact Debbie at: Debbie@ucvip.com

Horse Ready! 16650 Hwy B, Lebanon, MO 65536

2008-06-27T20:15:52Z

Horse Ready! 41 acres, 2 homes, barn, shop, 3 ponds and more!

Location: Lebanon, MO

Located outside of Lebanon, MO this property is ready for your horses or cattle. Fully fenced and cross fenced. Pipe and cable fencing along blacktop road frontage. 3 ponds plus 3 freeze proof waterers. Pipe catch pens. Main home is all brick, 3 bedrooms, 2 full bath and one half bath. Wood burning fireplace (insert); open floor plan with great kitchen counter space and cabinets galore. Enjoy the deer and turkey from your front porch or back patio. Second home is manufactured on a permanent foundation. Rounding out the perfect picture, a shop building with doors on both sides, allowing you to drive your truck/trailer all the way through. Nice pasture with just enough woods for shelter. Load up the horses, load up the family... Let us help you, Find Your Freedom in Missouri.

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Pricing

Asking Price: $397,777

Flexibility: Negotiable

Features

Bedrooms: 3

Bathrooms: 2.5

Year Built: 1973

Subdivision: N/A

Lot Size: 41 acres

Garage Size: 2 attached

School District: Lebanon

Agent Name: Ray DiFonzo

Broker: Debbie DiFonzo

MLS #: UC # 50440

Office: Lebanon, MO

Website: www.UCMissouri.com

Attributes

Appliances

Range/Oven

Full Refrigerator

Dishwasher

Interior Amenities

Fireplace

Hardwood Floors

Kitchen Island

Attic

Exterior Amenities

Patio

Fenced Yard

Grass Lawn

Secluded setting

Tool Shed

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EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

VFLYER ID: 1739532