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You’ll find our blog to be a wealth of information, covering everything from local market statistics and home values to community happenings. That’s because we care about the community and want to help you find your place in it. Please reach out if you have any questions at all. We’d love to talk with you!

April 12, 2023

Things to do in Fulton, MO

Things to do in Fulton, MO

Fulton, MO is a small city located in central Missouri with a rich history and a variety of attractions to explore. Here are some things you might consider doing during your visit:

  1. Visit the National Churchill Museum: This museum is dedicated to the life and legacy of Winston Churchill, including the famous Iron Curtain speech he delivered at Westminster College in 1946. The museum features exhibits on Churchill's life, as well as a replica of the famous underground war rooms in London.
  2. Explore the Brick District: This historic district in downtown Fulton is home to many local shops, restaurants, and art galleries. Take a stroll down the brick streets and enjoy the quaint atmosphere.
  3. Visit the Auto World Museum: This museum showcases a collection of over 80 rare and classic cars, including a 1903 Cadillac and a 1971 Lamborghini Miura. The museum also features a collection of antique bicycles and motorcycles.
  4. Go hiking or fishing at the Mark Twain National Forest: This national forest covers over 1.5 million acres of land in Missouri and is a great place to explore the outdoors. The forest has many hiking trails, fishing streams, and campsites.
  5. Attend a performance at the Callaway Community Theater: This local theater puts on a variety of plays and musicals throughout the year, featuring local talent from the community.
  6. Visit the Winston Churchill Memorial and Library: Located on the campus of Westminster College, this memorial and library houses a collection of Churchill's personal papers, books, and artifacts. The site also features a sculpture of Churchill and a chapel dedicated to his memory.
  7. Take a tour of the Missouri School for the Deaf: Founded in 1851, this school is one of the oldest institutions for the deaf in the country. Visitors can take a tour of the historic campus and learn about the school's history and mission.
  8. Attend the Fulton Street Fair: Held annually in June, this fair features carnival rides, live music, food vendors, and a parade. It's a great way to experience the local community and have some fun!

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April 12, 2023

Finding a real estate agent in Missouri

Finding a real estate agent in Missouri.

If you're looking to buy or sell a property in Missouri, finding the right real estate agent can make all the difference. A good agent will not only help you navigate the complex process of buying or selling a property, but they'll also be able to provide you with valuable insights into the local real estate market. Here are some tips on how to find a real estate agent in Missouri that's right for you.

  1. Look for agents with local expertise: When searching for a real estate agent, it's important to find one who knows the local market. Look for agents who specialize in the areas where you want to buy or sell a property. They should be able to provide you with up-to-date information on local market trends, property values, and neighborhood amenities.
  2. Check their credentials: In Missouri, real estate agents must be licensed by the Missouri Real Estate Commission. You can check the commission's website to verify an agent's license and check for any disciplinary actions. Additionally, you can look for agents who are members of professional organizations, such as the National Association of Realtors or the Missouri Association of Realtors.
  3. Ask for referrals: One of the best ways to find a good real estate agent is to ask for referrals from friends, family, or colleagues who have recently bought or sold a property in Missouri. Ask about their experience with the agent and whether they would recommend them.
  4. Read reviews: Check online reviews from previous clients to see what their experience was like working with the agent. Look for agents with a track record of positive reviews and satisfied clients.
  5. Interview potential agents: Once you've narrowed down your list of potential agents, schedule interviews to get to know them better. Ask about their experience, their marketing strategies, and their communication style. Make sure you feel comfortable working with them and that they understand your goals and priorities.

By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to finding a real estate agent in Missouri who can help you buy or sell your property with confidence. Remember to take your time and choose an agent who has the expertise and experience to meet your specific needs.

Columbia Real Estate has some amazing real estate agents that service all of Mid-Missouri. See all our agents here.

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April 12, 2023

What to do in Jefferson City, MO

Things to do in Jefferson City, MO

Jefferson City, Missouri is a charming city that has a lot to offer for both tourists and locals. Located in the heart of Missouri, the city is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. From exploring historical landmarks to enjoying outdoor activities, there are plenty of things to do in Jefferson City, MO. In this blog post, we'll highlight some of the top attractions and activities that you should consider when visiting this beautiful city.

  1. Missouri State Capitol

The Missouri State Capitol is a must-visit attraction for anyone traveling to Jefferson City. The building is an impressive sight, with its majestic dome visible from all parts of the city. Visitors can take a guided tour of the capitol, which includes a visit to the governor's office, the House and Senate chambers, and the Missouri State Museum. The museum is home to a vast collection of artifacts, documents, and photographs that tell the story of Missouri's history.

  1. Runge Nature Center

For nature lovers, the Runge Nature Center is a must-visit destination in Jefferson City. The center is located on a 112-acre site that includes woodlands, wetlands, and prairies. Visitors can explore the trails, observe wildlife, and participate in educational programs and events. The center also has a nature-themed playground, picnic areas, and a gift shop.

  1. Katy Trail State Park

Katy Trail State Park is a 237-mile long trail that stretches from Machens to Clinton, Missouri. The trail is perfect for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Visitors can enjoy scenic views of the Missouri River, historic towns, and beautiful countryside along the way. The trail also has numerous trailheads, rest areas, and campsites for visitors to use.

  1. Jefferson City Art Club Gallery

The Jefferson City Art Club Gallery is a great place to experience the city's vibrant art scene. The gallery features a wide variety of artwork from local and regional artists, including paintings, sculptures, and mixed media pieces. Visitors can attend art shows and events or purchase artwork to take home.

  1. Missouri State Penitentiary

The Missouri State Penitentiary is a historical landmark that offers a unique glimpse into Missouri's past. The prison operated for over 150 years and housed some of the country's most notorious criminals. Visitors can take a guided tour of the prison, which includes a visit to the gas chamber, the old dungeon, and the prison hospital. The tour also includes stories of famous inmates and prison escapes.

  1. Cole County Historical Museum

The Cole County Historical Museum is a great place to learn about the history of Jefferson City and Cole County. The museum features exhibits on local history, including the Civil War, the Lewis and Clark Expedition, and the Missouri State Capitol. Visitors can also see artifacts from the lives of local pioneers, soldiers, and politicians.

  1. Central Dairy

No visit to Jefferson City is complete without a stop at Central Dairy. The family-owned dairy has been in operation since 1920 and is famous for its homemade ice cream. Visitors can choose from a variety of flavors, including butter pecan, strawberry, and chocolate chip cookie dough. The dairy also sells milk, cheese, and other dairy products.

In conclusion, Jefferson City, MO is a great destination for anyone looking for history, culture, and natural beauty. From exploring historical landmarks to enjoying outdoor activities, there are plenty of things to do in the city. So pack your bags and head to Jefferson City for a fun-filled vacation.

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Feb. 2, 2023

How to Prep My Home to Sell

How to prep my home to sell

Preparing your home for sale can be overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be! Here are some tips to get you started:

  1. Give your home a deep clean. Cleaning your home from top to bottom will make it look more inviting and put buyers in the right mindset.
  2. Make all necessary repairs. Buyers will be looking at all the details of your home, so make sure all the necessary repairs, such as leaky faucets, broken windows, and worn carpet, have been taken care of.
  3. De-clutter. People tend to have a lot of stuff, but buyers want to be able to envision their own belongings in the home. So take the time to declutter and make sure all the closets and rooms look neat and organized.
  4. Stage your home. Staging your home can really make it stand out from the competition. Make sure the furniture is arranged in a way that is inviting and inviting, and also add some home décor to make it look more homey.
  5. Curb appeal. The exterior of your home is the first thing potential buyers will see, so make sure it looks good! Make sure the lawn is mowed, the garden is maintained and all the walkways are free of debris.

Good luck with preparing your home for sale!

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Dec. 20, 2021

6 Mistakes First-time Buyers Should Avoid

Buying your first home is an exciting time, but it's also filled with many questions. If you are like most newcomers to home buying, you are going to make some mistakes during the process. While you can chalk many of these up to learning opportunities, you can also avoid some common mistakes our real estate agents see time and time again. Here are some we want to help you avoid in your search for the perfect first home.

  1. Being Swayed by Over-the-Top Features
    Sure, a pool looks inviting and cool in a new home, but do you really have the time and money to keep it maintained? Does that stunning landscaping look like something you would be able to keep up with? Make sure you aren't swayed by over-the-top features that, after your initial excitement, really don't provide your family with much benefit.
  2. Getting Emotionally Attached
    There are many beautiful homes in Columbia. Don't get emotionally attached to the first one you put an offer on. There are so many things that can go wrong, from problems found during inspection to a seller who isn't willing to give any concessions, and if you're emotionally invested in the purchase, you're going to have a very hard time walking away if the terms of the home's sale aren't in your favor. There will be another beautiful home if this one isn't the right one.
  3. Not Using a Real Estate Agent
    Yes, you can buy a home without a real estate agent, but it's not wise, especially your first time around. Not only does an agent have better abilities to search for available homes and zero in on those that would meet your needs well, but real estate agents understand the process well and can guide you through negotiations and paperwork until the house is actually yours.
  4. Jumping Into Remodeling Too Quickly
    Many first-time buyers are embracing the idea of buying a "fixer-upper." However, before you take on any major repairs, wait a bit. This will help you understand how you are going to live in your home, so you don't put up a wall in an important area of flow. It will also help you get a feel for the true costs of homeownership, so you don't spend money on remodeling tasks when you don't really have the money to spend.
  5. Piling on the Credit
    Your mortgage is likely the largest chunk of credit you've ever had. Before you start making additional purchases, like for furniture, you need to make sure you've figured out your new budget. Remember, your mortgage, utilities and overall home maintenance are likely going to cost more than the costs of renting did, so make sure you understand what you're dealing with before you pile on the credit card bills.
  6. No Savings Plan
    Buying a home is not the end of the road for homeowners. You're going to have times when you want to put money into that home down the road, and you're going to face unexpected costs for repairs and maintenance. Make sure you're still saving every single month.

At Columbia Real Estate, we want your first home purchase to be an exciting time. By avoiding these first-time buyer mistakes, you can enjoy the thrill of homeownership with much less stress. For more information about buying your first home, contact Century 21 Community today.

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Dec. 6, 2021

5 Things to Look for When You're Buying a Fixer Upper

Buy a fixer-upper. Do the rehab. Move in and live happily ever after. It sounds like a great idea, but will it work for you?

Our real estate agents understand the challenges of buying fixer-upper homes in Columbia. The process can be emotionally and financially rewarding, but it's not right for everyone. Here are five things to consider before you buy.

  1. Make sure it's the right neighborhood
    If your fixer-upper is in a run-down area, it's probably best to walk away. One possible exception is the home in an "up-and-coming" neighborhood. You'll be buying into a future of possibilities that might require a decades-long transition. This move requires caution and patience.Research is the best way to figure out what will work for you.• Check out comparable homes - Find the selling price of similar, fully rehabbed homes in the area.
    • Meet potential neighbors - Look at their homes. Find out what they can tell you about the area?
    • Review local crime statistics - How many and what types of crimes occur on a regular basis?
    • Research school quality - Will your children or those of your future home buyer have to attend private schools for a good education?
  2. Figure out your fixer-upper limitations
    There are fixer-uppers then there are run-down money pits. You should identify your fixer-upper's status before you make the deal.It's essential to hire a professional home inspector to assess a property's rehab needs and detect structural, foundation, septic tank, and other deal-breaker issues. An inspector can give you a written report and walk you through the home to point out minor and major problems you might not choose to take on.
  3. Identify environmental issues
    Fixer-uppers are often the result of home foreclosure or abandonment. You might not have access to the previous resident for a meaningful disclosure of asbestos, lead, mold, or formaldehyde contamination issues.These and other environmental contaminants can cause health and safety problems for you, your contractors, and your family. They can generate legal complications if you fail to identify and resolve them before selling the property.
  4. Know the ultimate cost
    A home inspection can identify problems but it won't tell you how to fix them or how much time and money it will take. You have to figure that out yourself.That requires you that know the processes, materials, and techniques for each task. Unless you're a contractor, you probably have no idea how to figure out these basics. It's best to bring in a professional for an accurate estimate.
  5. Know your DIY limitations
    If you have time, handyman know-how, and desire to do the work, you can save money by performing some rehab tasks yourself. Spackling, painting, and sanding wooden floors require limited skills. Upgrading your bathroom or kitchen plumbing takes more advanced knowledge than you can pick up via a DIY video.Despite your handyman optimism, you should probably hire a contractor to do roofing, electrical wiring, and other jobs that require years of training and professional certifications.

Let us help
When you need advice from a real estate professional, contact Columbia Real Estate. We'll guide you through the process of buying or selling your home. We provide information on local events, city guides and real estate.

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Nov. 22, 2021

Buying Your Dream Home in a Seller's Market

You can count on the real estate pendulum to swing in two directions: between a buyer's market and a seller's market, meaning that market conditions favor one person or the other.

This doesn't mean you should worry if you're a potential buyer in a seller's market. But you must understand the challenges you face so that you can compete effectively and purchase the home you want most of all. Your three top challenges include the potential for:

  • A lower inventory. Compound the challenge if you're looking for a home in sought-after Columbia neighborhood. You can bet these sellers know they have something that people want. Such leverage can give them the upper hand (at least until a skilled real estate agent can help you level the field).
  • Higher prices. Simply because they can, sellers often ask a little more (and sometimes a lot more) than they would in a buyer's market. Less competition makes their home more desirable.
  • A bidding war. Fewer homes at already higher prices often lay the groundwork for a duel between at least two people – and sometimes more.

Recognizing these challenges will help prepare you for the journey ahead – and one you'll be best equipped to champion with a skilled real estate agent from Columbia Real Estate at your side. All of our real estate agents will advise you to take eight proactive steps to strengthen your advantage in a seller's market:

  1. Gain preapproval on a mortgage. A letter will prove that you're a serious buyer who has the financial resources to close the deal. It's a time-saving step too--for everyone involved.
  2. Be prepared to move quickly when you find a house that meets your needs – or at least most of them. In a seller's market, houses move quickly, so time can be of the essence in writing up an offer. It will help to clarify your needs before you even begin looking for a home.
  3. Begin with a respectable offer. A savvy real estate agent may even advise you to begin with your best offer, especially if competing offers are in the wind. A seller's market is no time to elongate negotiations or – worst of all – submit a "low-ball offer."
  4. Offer a larger-than-usual amount of earnest money. Your real estate agent can help you determine a sum that will convey to the seller that you're indeed earnest and motivated. A larger sum also could place you at an advantage over competing offers.
  5. Reconsider contingencies that would normally protect you on such issues as selling your home first, the appraisal and the inspection. Dueling offers, or even the seller's demand, may force your hand anyway. Lifting contingencies is risky but could be the only obstacle standing in the way of getting the home you have your heart set on.
  6. Set realistic expectations about the inspection and any ensuing repairs. Buyers in both seller's and buyer's markets sometimes misconstrue an inspection as a "to-do" list for the seller. It's not; it's meant to disclose serious deficiencies (for which a buyer should compensated). Pick your spots carefully, realizing that sellers in a seller's market are often less inclined to make repairs.
  7. Consider making an offer on a home that is "under contract." To you, it may look like a sure thing, but real estate deals self-destruct every day over a bevy of issues. If you are a "strong buyer," you could make an equally strong impression over a weak first offer.
  8. Include a personal letter to the sellers, expressing how much you love their home. It's called an emotional appeal, and it could be the difference that sets your offer apart from other buyers in a seller's market. These eight steps should fortify your efforts. So too will working with the most experienced real estate team in Columbia.

Contact us at Century 21 Community and conquer the challenges of purchasing a home in a seller's market.

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Nov. 8, 2021

How to Save for a Down Payment on Your First Home

When you're saving to buy a house in Columbia (or anywhere), it is important to understand the details of the financial commitment you are about to make. You should have a grasp on how much home you can afford, the total cost of everything involved and how to prepare for your home purchase.

Before you start your search for a home to buy, make sure your finances are in order. Two important things to consider are:

  1. How much do you hope to finance from a mortgage lender.
  2. How much do you have for a down payment.

Your down payment is a cash payment presented at closing to the seller towards the purchase of a home. The amount of your down payment has a long-term financial impact on you since it gauges your monthly mortgage and initial home equity.

Please know--you can't just randomly choose your down payment. The mortgage for which you are applying will typically have a specified minimum down payment amount.

How to Save for a Down Payment

To boost your savings balance for a down payment, you need to establish a realistic plan. Here are five smart steps to take in your plans to buy a house.

  1. Determine How Much You'll Need to Save - Meet with a mortgage lender to review your finances to understand how much mortgage you can actually qualify for in your current financial situation.
  2. Budget, Budget, Budget - Following a budget is another way to put more money toward saving for a down payment for your first home. This could mean earning extra income, cutting expenses--or both.
  3. Check Your Credit - Your ability to borrow money and the interest rate you will pay is related to your credit score. Your credit score is based on the credit reports that include information like how much you have borrowed, where you have credit accounts, total debt, any missed or late payments, and how much more you can borrow with existing accounts. It's always wise to check your credit reports well in advance of applying for a mortgage to correct any errors or disputes.
  4. Open an Automated Savings Account - One tried and true method for saving money is to open an automated savings account. If you're like many people, it's not in our nature to save. That's where an automated saving account comes in handy. When money moves directly into a savings account, it becomes almost invisible and removes the temptation to spend it on other things.
  5. Add Anything Extra to Your Savings - You can make saving for a down payment easier--and even shorten the time it takes to save--by banking any "extras" that come your way. These can include income-tax refunds, birthday gifts, bonuses, large commission checks and even the sale of personal belongings.

Contact our team of REALTORS® to start your house hunt for Columbia homes for sale. Because we are live and work locally, our sales associates have the best real estate information and knowledge about Columbia and its surrounding communities to help you buy your dream home. Contact us today.

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Oct. 25, 2021

The Ultimate Columbia Neighborhood Guide

Columbia, Missouri is a city filled with character, culture and natural scenery; so it's not always easy to settle on one choice neighborhood out of such an appealing list of options. One of the first things you'll learn about Columbia, MO is that every neighborhood is unique, with its own businesses, traditions and community spirit. Every community has something to offer on its own and when you add them all together it's easy to see why Columbia is such an interesting, engaging place to call home.

The Diverse Neighborhoods of Columbia, MO

Homes in Columbia, MO give you easy access to the big city with the kind of natural beauty you can only find in Missouri. The neighborhoods we'll cover today offer some extra perks, like clubhouses, community pools and active homeowner's associations. Even with those added amenities, the city is still an affordable place to shop for homes and a great place to make the most of your budget.

  • The Cascades Neighborhood - If you are searching for the friendliness of a small town in a big city setting, The Cascades neighborhood should be one of your first stops. This neighborhood is located in an outdoorsy corner of the city with wooded trails, quiet streets and a very family-friendly vibe. It's the sort of place where you'll be on a first-name basis with your neighbors from the day you move in and before long community events start to feel like family reunions.
  • Old Hawthorne Neighborhood – Sure, you could travel outside the city to enjoy a round of golf, but why would you when a world-class country club is located just outside your door? The Old Hawthorne neighborhood is centered around The Club at Old Hawthorne which features golf, swimming, fitness facilities, social events and a truly elegant clubhouse. The club is very social in nature, so you'll always have a way to connect with community, as well as another big event to look forward to on the calendar.
  • Thornbrook Neighborhood – Located in the southwestern part of the city, Thornbrook is a residential neighborhood with a reputation for truly spectacular homes. This is another neighborhood filled with outdoor recreation and sights to see. Within the community, you will find two lakes, a walking trail, a community pool, a private playground, and even a community clubhouse that is perfect for special events. Thornbrook is a very popular neighborhood for families, with easy access to nearby elementary schools.
  • Wyndham Ridge Neighborhood – With affordable, attractive family homes and loads of fun activities, the Wyndham Ridge neighborhood is a popular pick for new residents of the city. Any time you go to the community clubhouse or swimming pool, you are likely to find friends and neighbors enjoying the facilities as well. Serene, wooded walking trails run through the community, and the neighborhood's central location makes it easy to enjoy everything that the city has to offer.

Our REALTORS® in Columbia are always ready to help you find the right neighborhood and home in the city. Contact Columbia Real Estate to buy and sell homes throughout Columbia, MO.

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Oct. 11, 2021

Using a Pro to Sell Your Home

Ready to sell your house in Columbia? You'll have a lot of important decisions to make in the months to come, but if you want to sell your house at a fair price and a fast pace, the first one should be the easiest. Instead of trying to sell your house yourself, make the decision to hire a real estate professional. According to Time, the vast majority of sellers--nearly 90 percent--work with a real estate agent to list, stage, market and sell their homes. There's not just one reason for this trend--there are hundreds of reasons to go with a pro.

Before you attempt to go it alone, let's take a look at some of the most important reasons to trust a real estate professional.

  1. REALTORS® know your local real estate market.
    Even if you have previous experience selling a house you own, you don't have all the information you need unless you've worked as a real estate agent in your own community. Yes, real estate agents know how to stage and market homes, but they're also up-to-date on all the laws and regulations, buying and bidding trends, and competing listings that may affect your sale. Don't underestimate the value of a real estate professional's unique insights into the market, especially when it comes to your listing price and marketing strategy.
  2. REALTORS® are legally obligated to protect your interests.
    Of course, years of market experience isn't helpful if it isn't applied. Fortunately, the real estate industry has high standards for legal and financial accountability, and a REALTOR® makes a contractual commitment to keep you informed and protected every step of the way. They must follow a Code of Ethics to keep their professional membership, so your best interests are their best interests too. Hire a licensed REALTOR® who will fight to protect you and your finances, from the initial listing to the negotiation table.
  3. REALTORS® weed out buyers and bids that aren't serious or trustworthy.
    Your time is valuable, and so is your privacy. If you don't have a professional "buffer" acting on your behalf, you'll have to deal with every inquiry, bid, and question from potential buyers. Save time, and hire someone who already has experience selling homes in Columbia. Just as these agents know what works (and what doesn't) to attract buyers, they know which buyers and bids to take seriously. They also have ongoing relationships with the agents and lenders who represent local buyers, so they know who will be helpful and trustworthy during negotiations, and they're prepared for more pushy and manipulative tactics too.
  4. REALTORS® have staging "tricks" up their sleeves.
    Every property, no matter how well it's priced, needs to look good in order to attract serious buyers. REALTORS can look at your home through a professional lens, spotting anything that detracts from a clean, up-to-date, spacious, and neutral atmosphere. They can help you rearrange your furniture to make rooms look bigger, and recommend modest upgrades or repairs that will do wonders when it's time to make first impressions. They will probably suggest changes you'd never consider, because their goal is simple and has nothing to do with personal taste.

Are you convinced yet? If you're selling your house and you want professional help, our Columbia REALTORS® are ready to meet you. Instead of trying to handle everything from online marketing to last-minute negotiations yourself, contact us at Columbia Real Estate. Our professionals have years of experience selling Columbia homes like yours.

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