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Jon HollowayREALTOR%26%23174;Originally from San Jose, California, Jon moved to Branson in 1983 when his parents bought Stormy Point Campground and Resort, which they owned and operated for nearly twenty years. Jon graduated from Reeds Spring High School and went on to attend Southern Nazarene University in Oklahoma City. After a transfer to College of the Ozarks in Point Lookout, Missouri, he graduated in 1997 with a B.A. in Business Administration.
Since college, Jon has worked in management for Walgreen's Inc., the Herschend Family Entertainment Corporation and the Myer Family Hotel group, where he was employed for six years, most recently as the General Manager of the Best Western Center Pointe Inn. During his tenure with the Myer Family, Jon earned the CHA designation (Certified Hotel Administrator) from the American Hotel and Lodging Association.
As a business entrepreneur, Jon has owned and operated Pizza Chef of Forsyth and Pizza Chef of Branson in a partnership with his younger brother. "Some ventures work out great while others don't, but you hate to go through life wondering what if? So I decided to invest in real estate. Charlie Gerken sold the first house I flipped and since then I've been hooked!"
A graduate of the Branson Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce Leadership Program, Jon is thoroughly familiar with Branson’s evolution, environment, community service, marketing, government, and economic development plans.
Jon currently serves as a committee member of RPAC (Realtor Political Action Committee), a group which raises funds for those in political office who are supportive of protecting private property rights.
ContactOffice: 417.334.1892 ext. 110
Toll Free: 1.800.897.4016
Mobile: 417.294.1629
Fax: 417.334.1898
E-mail:
Jon@GerkenandAssociates.comWebsite:
JonHollowayProperties.comGeneral InterestsBoating, water skiing, trail riding, skeet shooting, being at the beach, and spending quality time with my wife and kids.
MusicI love music and the memories associated with each song. Some of my favorite artists include Eric Clapton, Def Leppard, Phil Collins, Bon Jovi, Simple Plan, Bryan Adams, Prince, Journey, Scorpions, Hinder, Elton John and Tina Turner.
MoviesThe Goonies, Every Which Way But Loose, The Lord of the Rings Trilogy, Last of the Mohicans, Gladiator, and Top Gun.
BooksThe Tipping Pointe – Malcolm Gladwell
The Richest Man in Babylon – George S. Classon
The Robe – Lloyd C. Douglas
See You At The Top – Zig Zigglar
The Hobbit – J.R. Tolken
Iacocca, An Autobiography – Lee Iacocca
Jon Holloway
Realtor%26%23174;
Jay JonesREALTOR%26%23174;Originally from Raleigh, North Carolina, Jay moved to Branson when he was just twelve years old. Since then he's called Branson home and wouldn't have it any other way.
Jay graduated from Hollister High School, Branson's neighbor to the south where he then went on to attend college at Missouri State University and Drury University in nearby Springfield to enhance his business skills. Jay then took these business skills to manage one of Branson's longest standing family-owned restaurants, The Farmhouse, for nearly ten years.
Living in Branson for over twenty years, Jay's seen a lot of changes in the area. As a Realtor, Jay enjoys working with his local clients and helping new people move to the area.
In his free time, Jay enjoys to travel, lake activities, softball, and the company of his family and friends. Jay is also an avid follower of the stock market and likes adding to his sports memorabilia collection.
ContactOffice: 417.334.1892 ext. 105
Toll Free: 1.800.897.4016
Mobile: 417.339.9277
Fax: 417.334.1898
E-mail:
Jay@GerkenandAssociates.comWebsite:
JayJonesProperties.comPetsA large cat named Skittles that loves to hang out and do nothing.
MusicSo many great artists out there, but a few of my favorites include Depeche Mode, The Rolling Stones, Coldplay, Dave Matthews Band, Red Hot Chili Peppers, The Cure, Maroon 5, Matchbox Twenty and Pearl Jam.
BooksThe Warren Buffett Way - Warren Buffett
The Millionaire Next Door - Thomas Stanley
Learn To Earn - Peter Lynch
Beating The Street - Peter Lynch
Rich Dad, Poor Dad - Robert Kiyosaki
Your Best Life Now - Joel Osteen
Become A Better You - Joel Osteen
The Bible
Jay Jones
Realtor%26%23174;
Bob Warlick
Realtor%26%23174;
Bob WarlickREALTOR%26%23174;Bob moved to Branson in 1978, back when gas was 32 cents a gallon, music show tickets were five dollars each and the Branson city limits were within sight of the Gerken %26 Associates' office. A lot has changed in those 30 years, but a few things still remain the same. For instance, Branson continues to be a popular destination among families looking to relocate. Another constant is Bob's love of the Tri-Lakes area. This combination along with Bob's knowledge of the area makes him uniquely qualified to handle your real estate needs.
Throughout the years, Bob has been active in numerous civic and municipal organizations including the Branson Board of Aldermen, City of Branson Planning and Zoning Committee, City of Branson Budget Committee, Branson Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce Legislative Committee and Downtown Branson Main Street Association President just to name a few. Currently Bob is a member of the Board of Directors of Mountain Country Homes of Hope (formerly Habitat for Humanity).
Bob is a seasoned veteran of the Branson area and enjoys spending time with his family, including 3 grandsons and friends. Bob is a member of Victor Baptist Church and can also be found on occasion on stage performing Cowboy Poetry he has written.
A 1993 graduate of the Branson Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce's Leadership Program, Bob is thoroughly familiar with Branson’s evolution, environment, community service, marketing, government and economic development plans.
ContactOffice: 417.334.1892 ext. 114
Toll Free: 1.800.897.4016
Mobile: 417.593.4750
Fax: 417.334.1898
E-mail:
Bob@GerkenandAssociates.comGeneral InterestsBuilding furniture in my woodworking shop, old cars and classic tractors.
MusicOld Rock and Roll and Country.
BooksFavorite authors include John Grisham and Nicholas Sparks.
Paul BucklesREALTOR%26%23174;Paul was born and raised in St. Joseph, Missouri. He and his wife Linda, and son Tim, moved to the Branson area in 1992. Since then, Paul has played a part in the ever-growing changes Branson has seen since the early 90’s.
With a background of both sales and management in the automotive industry since 1975, Paul decided in 2005 to utilize these skills towards a career in real estate. Since then, he's played an active part in helping both buyers and sellers experience smooth transactions.
Paul has been passionately involved in ministry and music since 1973. He has served as pastor for area churches as well as traveled in the gospel music field. Today, both he and his wife continue to be involved in music ministry as well as working in the Branson business community.
ContactOffice: 417.334.1892 ext. 113
Toll Free: 1.800.897.4016
Mobile: 417.593.6622
Fax: 417.334.1898
E-mail:
Paul@GerkenandAssociates.comWebsite:
PaulBuckles.comGeneral InterestsMusic, remodeling, construction and golf.
BooksGreatest Salesman in the World - Og Mandino
Purpose Driven Life - Rick Warren
Paul Buckles
Realtor%26%23174;
Carol TurpinOffice AdministratorA Missouri girl, Carol was born and raised in the small town of Adrian, Missouri, which is located about 60 miles south of Kansas City.
In 1984 she and her family moved to Princeton, Texas, where she worked as an Executive Assistant to the Defense Group of Texas Instruments. In 1998, Texas Instruments sold the Defense Group to Raytheon Company, where Carol continued her career for a service total of 22 years.
Besides her successful career outside the home, she and her husband also raised six children.
With a desire to come back to Missouri, Carol and her husband John decided to make Branson their home. They enjoy fishing, attending Branson shows and spending time with their children, grandchildren and cats.
Carol is the lifeline for the Gerken %26 Associates office administrative duties. In addition to assisting agents and managing day-to-day office needs, Carol brings a strong background in customer relations, a can-do attitude and oversees the health of the office.
ContactOffice: 417.334.1892 ext. 100
Toll Free: 1.800.897.4016
Fax: 417.334.1898
E-mail:
Carol@GerkenandAssociates.comGeneral InterestsReading, fishing, sewing and relaxing on the deck.
MusicAny kind. Mood depends on the type of music.
MoviesComedy, romance, old westerns, war movies, and action. Just good clean entertainment.
BooksLove to read. Favorite authors include J.A. Jance, Nora Roberts, James Patterson, and Dee Henderson.
Carol TurpinOffice Administrator
Bradley PrideRealtor%26%23174;
Bradley PrideREALTOR%26%23174;Originally from Arkansas, Bradley graduated with honors from Arkansas Tech University, earning degrees in Accounting, Economics and Finance. While attending Arkansas Tech, Bradley met his soon-to-be wife Rebecca and they were married in June 2004.
Living in Russellville, Arkansas he attended Russellville Christian Center and became a founding member of the college and career ministry, ZOE (the God kind of life).
In 2005, Bradley attended business brokerage and sales training seminars and in 2006 moved to Branson. He received his Missouri Real Estate sales license and joined Gerken %26 Associates as a full time sales associate.
Since moving to Branson, Bradley has become an active member of Faith Life Church. He volunteers regularly for the church clean team and enjoys fellowship with other members. Bradley loves people and believes in giving God honor for all good things in his life.
ContactOffice: 417.334.1892 ext. 110
Toll Free: 1.800.897.4016
Mobile: 417.230.5969
Fax: 417.334.1898
E-mail:
Bradley@GerkenandAssociates.comGeneral InterestsSpending time with family and friends. My wife and I play many sports; tennis, golf and basketball are our favorites. Also enjoy skiing, tubing and learning to wake board on Table Rock Lake. I am a self-taught guitar player and like playing and singing.
MusicCountry and Christian are my two music genres. Favorite artists include Garth Brooks, Maple Street, George Strait, Alan Jackson, and Keith Moore (pastor at Faith Life Church).
MoviesMoney Pit, She's the Man, X-men, and Forest Gump
BooksWhat Would Jesus Eat – Dr. Don Colbert
The Mountains of Israel – Norma Parrish Archbold
Heaven – Jesse Duplantis
Plans, Purposes, and Pursuits – Kenneth E. Hagin
With the wide variety of loans available, home buyers have the freedom to choose a loan that best suits their needs. Early on in the home buying process, it’s a good idea to meet with several companies to compare the types of mortgages they offer and for the best price and terms. Working with a mortgage insurer can be very easy, whether your loan is insured by the FHA or a private mortgage insurance company.
Home Equity CreditHome equity lines of credit are a useful source of credit. Initially at least, they may provide you with large amounts of cash at relatively low interest rates and they may provide you with certain tax advantages unavailable with other kinds of loans. Be sure you understand how much your monthly payments will be and what they cover.
Many companies will charge a fee for lending you money. The fee is usually a percentage of the loan and is sometimes referred to as "points." If you have a fixed rate loan, the interest rate is set for the life of the loan. However, many companies offer variable rate mortgages, also known as adjustable rate mortgages or ARMs.
How Much Can You Afford? Generally speaking, to qualify for conventional loans, housing expenses should not exceed 26 to 28 percent of your gross monthly income. For FHA loans, the ratio is 29 percent of gross monthly income. Monthly housing costs include the mortgage principal, interest, taxes and insurance, often abbreviated as PITI.
One way to determine how much to spend for housing, is to compare your monthly income with your long term obligations and expenses. When budgeting to buy a home, it’s important to allow enough money for additional expenses such as maintenance and insurance costs. If you are purchasing an existing home, gather information such as utility cost averages and maintenance costs from previous owners or tenants to help you better prepare for home ownership.
Homeowner's insurance or property insurance is another cost you’ll have to consider. The lending institution holding the mortgage will require insurance in an amount sufficient to cover the loan. However, to protect the full value of your investment, you might want to consider purchasing insurance that provides the full replacement cost if the home is destroyed. Some insurance only provides a fixed dollar amount which may be insufficient to rebuild a badly damaged house.
Down Payment Loans %26 GiftsLoans and gifts can help with your down payment but you can not use this strategy for all loan programs. The gift can be from any relative or can be collected through new innovative programs, like the Bridal Registry where couples receive money into an account that can be used for the down payment.
Another popular tactic, which can be used in a wider range of programs, is to borrow from your 401K program. If you have a 401K program with your employer, you can withdraw without a penalty for your down payment and pay it back over a specified period. There are some drawbacks, the payment will be used in qualifying and your 401K account will not continue to grow as fast. Even with these drawbacks, it is often a smart move if this is your only option.
Down Payment AssistanceMany local and state agencies run bond programs to generate funds to help individuals and families with a down payment. Contrary to public thinking, these bond issues are not a type of welfare. The government knows that it can be tough to buy that first home, especially on a limited income.
Most agencies are income sensitive, but you may be surprised by the high level of acceptable income. The income level is especially high if you have children or dependents. Most agencies also have purchase limits, but they are adjusted to the income qualifications level.
If you are able to obtain down payment assistance, you may receive a lower interest rate. The drawback is that it often takes quite a bit of work with extra paperwork and mandatory education classes. Our advice, talk to one of our agents or a mortgage professional who is familiar with both local and state agencies and their policies.
AppraisalsIndividuals applying for a loan are often only interested in obtaining the loan and unfortunately are not worried about the prudence of buying the property at the agreed price. In fact, some purchasers try to encourage appraisers to increase the appraised value so that they can purchase the home regardless of its value.
The majority of real estate appraisals are requested by mortgage companies to validate the property's purchase price for loan purposes. Except for periods of very low interest rates when everyone is refinancing, most loans are for the purchase of real estate and ordered after a sale price is negotiated. Purchasers mistakenly assume that mortgage companies are looking after their interests in the purchase transaction.
An appraisal of real estate is the valuation of the rights of ownership. The appraiser must define the rights he intends to appraise. The appraiser does not create value, the appraiser interprets the market to arrive at a value estimate. As the appraiser compiles data pertinent to a report, consideration must be given to the site and amenities as well as the physical condition of the property. An appraiser may spend only a short time inspecting the property, however, this is only the beginning.
Considerable research and collection of general and specific data must be accomplished before the appraiser can arrive at a final opinion of value. Due to the many types of value, such as fair market value, insurance value, tax value and value in use, the need to precisely define the purpose of the appraisal is essential.
An appraisal is an opinion of value or the act or process of estimating value. This opinion or estimate is derived by using three common approaches, all derived from the market.
The cost approach to determining value is to estimate what it would cost to replace or reproduce the improvements as of the date of the appraisal, less the physical deterioration, the functional obsolescence and the economic obsolescence. The remainder is added to the land value.
Mortgage InsuranceMortgage insurance protects the mortgage company against financial loss if a homeowner stops making mortgage payments. Mortgage companies usually require insurance on low down payment loans for protection in the event that the homeowner fails to make his or her payments.
When a homeowner fails to make the mortgage payments, a default occurs and the home goes into foreclosure. Both the homeowner and the mortgage insurer lose in a foreclosure. The homeowner loses the house and all of the money put into it. The mortgage insurer will then have to pay the mortgage company's claim on the defaulted loan. For this reason, it is crucial that the family buying the home can really afford it, not only at the time it is purchased, but throughout the time period of the loan.
Although the cost of the mortgage insurance is paid by the home buyer, or borrower, the mortgage insurer works directly with the mortgage company. Mortgage insurance is available to commercial banks and mortgage bankers, all of whom offer mortgage loans to home buyers.
Remember that mortgage insurance is not the same as credit life insurance, also called mortgage life insurance. This type of policy repays an outstanding mortgage balance upon the death of the person who took out the insurance policy.
Government %26 Private InsuranceNow that we have explained how mortgage insurance works and why it is necessary, let's look at the basic kinds of mortgage insurance. Low down payment mortgages can be insured in two ways, through the government or through the private sector. Mortgages backed by the government are insured by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA), the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) or the Farmers Home Administration (FmHA).
Although anyone can apply for FHA insurance, the other two government mortgage guarantee programs are much more targeted. The VA program is limited to qualified, eligible veterans and reservists. This program is very specialized, so contact your mortgage professional for the details. The FmHA insures loans for the construction and purchase of homes in rural communities.
Obtaining conventional financing is the alternative to obtaining a home loan backed by the government. Conventional mortgages are all home loans not guaranteed by the government, including those guaranteed by private mortgage insurers.
The Secondary MarketThe mortgage company's decision to use mortgage insurance is driven by the requirements of investors in the mortgage market. Because of the losses that could occur, major investors require mortgage insurance on all loans made with low down payments.
The three primary investors in home loans are Federal National Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae), Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (Freddie Mac) and Government National Mortgage Association (Ginnie Mae). By purchasing and selling residential mortgages, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac help keep money available for homes across the country.
Unlike Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, Ginnie Mae does not actually buy mortgages. It adds the guarantee of the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government to mortgage securities issued by mortgage companies.
Get A Credit ReportDon’t assume that minor credit problems or difficulties stemming from unique circumstances, such as illness or temporary loss of income, will limit your loan choices to only high-cost lenders. If your credit report contains negative information that is accurate, but there are good reasons for trusting you to repay a loan, be sure to explain your situation to the lender or Gerken %26 Associates real estate agent.
If your credit problems cannot be explained, you will probably have to pay more than borrowers who have good credit histories. But don’t assume that the only way to get credit is to pay a high price. Ask how your past credit history affects the price of your loan and what you would need to do to get a better price. Take the time to shop around and negotiate the best deal that you can.
Whether you have credit problems or not, it’s a good idea to review your credit report for accuracy and completeness before you apply for a loan. To order a copy of your credit report, contact any of these companies:
Equifax: 1.800.685.1111
TransUnion: 1.800.888.4213
Experian: 1.888.397.3742
Below is a list of area friends whose services we trust and recommend:
AccountantsBKD, LLPKirkpatrick, Phillips and Miller PCAdvertising %26 Web DevelopmentPark EastArchitectButler, Rosenbury %26 PartnersArea NewsBranson CourierBranson Online Travel GuideHighway 13Springfield Business JournalThe Vacation ChannelAttorneyCantwell, Smith, Trokey %26 FletcherBarber %26 Beauty SalonsChic's Barber Shop
Gary's Coiffures
Hair Waves by Becky
Jim's Barber Shop
Branson Parents As TeachersVeronica Huacuz-Holloway
Branson Show TicketsBranson 2 For 1 TicketsBranson HospitalityBranson ShowsCarpet CleaningAndes MagikistClean-Co
ChiropracticEpps Chiropractic Clinic
Extra Care ChiropracticTri-Lakes Chiropractic Clinic
ChurchesBranson Hills AssemblyBrookside ChurchFaith Life ChurchFirst Baptist Church of BransonHollister Church of ChristLakewood ChurchOur Lady of the Lake Catholic ChurchSkyline Southern Baptist ChurchTri-Lakes Christian ChurchUnity of the HillsComputer Information SystemsSygna TechnologyCondo RentalsBecky's HideawayConstructionBeanland's Design %26 ConstructionCramer Construction
Larry Snyder %26 Co.Contemporary ArtistSandie ColeDentalBranson DentalFrank Schmidt, DDS
Gentle DentalEntertainmentBranson IMAXDixie StampedeCelebration CityJim StaffordPresleys' Country JubileeShepherd of the HillsShowboat Branson BelleSilver Dollar CitySIXWhite WaterEnvironmental ServicesWhite River Valley Environmental ServicesExcavationTom Boyce ExcavatingEye CareOzarks Family Vision CentreFinancial LendingAllstar Home %26 Commercial LoansBranson BankCitizen's Union State BankFirst Community BankHeartland FundingLiberty BankNorthstar FinancingOzark Mountain BankRegions BankSt. Charles MortgageFinancial ServicesWaddell %26 ReedFire ProtectionFireTek Construction Services
Fitness CenterOzark Mountain Family YMCAFurnitureBrashears FurnitureGroceryCountry MartGrounds MaintenanceAAA Sweep, Inc.
Professional Property Maintenance
Health FoodNature's Sunshine
HotelsBarrington Hotel %26 SuitesBig Cedar ResortChateau on the LakeD'MonacoMyer HotelsPrince Charles InnRadissonRamada LimitedSettle Inn ResortsWelk ResortInvestment SecuritiesPenrod %26 Company
LaundryKoin-O-Matic Laundromat
Limousine ServicesAt Your Service LimousinesLocksmithBranson Lock
MarinaRockaway Beach MarinaMedicalCharles Spears, M.D.
Skaggs Community Health CenterCoxHealthSt. John's Health SystemMuseumsBranson Titanic MuseumThe Roy Rogers-Dale Evans MuseumPlumbingL%26J Plumbing SupplyPrintingCopyBiz
Creative Printing %26 DesignDigital Print, Inc. MWM Dexter Sir Speedy Recreational VehiclesAll Certified RV Service %26 Repair
Residential RentalsRegionWest PropertiesResortsPipers Lakeshore ResortTribesman ResortRestaurantsBob EvansCandlestick InnCasa FuentesDineBranson.comFamous Dave's Bar-B-QueGrand Country BuffetGolden CorralLiberty TavernLuigi's Pizza KitchenLoneStar SteakhouseMazzio's PizzaRib CribRuby TuesdaysSecurity SystemsAtlas SecuritySignageNature Graphics
The Sign Man
Sports Collection %26 MemorabiliaPlay Ball
Storage FacilityAround The Clock StorageTimeshare Resale %26 RentalsRCR Timeshare RentalsVacation ReservationsC.A.M. Travel NetworkReserveBranson.comVideo RentalBuster's Video
VeterinarianAnimal Care ClinicWedding ApparelOzark Mountain Wedding GuideWineryMount Pleasant WineryTip Greeting 01: Hello, we're your tip agents! We'll periodically give you advice on buying, selling and making the most out of using this website.
Tip Greeting 02: This is an all FLASH website. You won't need your browser buttons. If you get lost, simply click on the logo at the top to return home.
Tip Greeting 03: Make a box of essentials when moving. Include such items as light bulbs, towels, toilet paper, paper towels, cups, tape and trash bags.
Tip Greeting 04: The average shower uses 17.2 gallons of water, 25 percent less than a bath, which uses 24 gallons of water.
Tip Greeting 05: There are five main conditions to selling property quickly: Location, marketing, condition, price and the market.
Tip Greeting 06: Temperature plays an important factor when buyers visit your home. Experts say set your thermostat to 72 in the winter and 69 in the summer.
Tip Greeting 07: Keeping visitors happy will help sell your house. Even though your pet is a family member, keep them out of the way when your property is shown.
Tip Greeting 08: Did you know that only 10 percent of For Sale By Owners sell their home successfully?
Tip Greeting 09: Buying a new car is not a good idea if you're looking to purchase a house. That makes lenders nervous and queasy.
Tip Greeting 10: If you've recently moved, have marital problems or are unsure of your job, now is probably not a good time to buy a new house.
Tip Greeting 11: Not everyone makes his or her bed every day, but when selling your home, it is recommended you develop the habit.
Tip Greeting 12: Don't overload on scented sprays when preparing for visitors. Some people may be allergic or find the smell offensive.
Tip Greeting 13: When preparing to show your home, turn on all indoor and outdoor lights. A house looks more spacious and cheerful with the lights on.
Tip Greeting 14: Homebuyers may feel uncomfortable viewing your house if you're home. Visit a library, grocery store or park to give them space.
Tip Greeting 15: Ask to be given prior notice. Our agents will always set up an appointment before showing your home.
Tip Greeting 16: Real estate ads do not sell property directly. They only create a pool of potential buyers.
Tip Greeting 17: The more real estate agents who know about your home, the greater chance of getting it sold. We can help!
Tip Greeting 18: Most lenders will request to review statements of your 401K, stocks, mutual funds, checking, saving and retirement accounts.
Tip Greeting 19: Whatever property taxes you pay in a given year may be deducted from your gross income, lowering your tax obligations.
Tip Greeting 20: With a fixed rate mortgage, you'll have the same house payment for thirty years. If you rent, you can expect it to increase each year.
Tip Greeting 21: Owning a home is a great financial investment! Average appreciation on a house is approximately five percent.
Tip Greeting 22: When you own a home, you can do whatever you want with it! You get the benefits of the improvements made.
Tip Greeting 23: There are buyers' markets and sellers' markets. Sometimes the market is hot; sometimes it's freezing cold.
Tip Greeting 24: Want to know the current weather in Branson? Click on the sun on our home page.
Tip Greeting 25: Detailed property listings can be done under the Tools tab in the Advanced Search options.
Tip Greeting 26: Buy a home you expect to remain in for about seven years or more. This will maximize your investment in owning the home.
Tip Greeting 27: The housing market is hot! When the market was struggling in 1996, who would have predicted what the next ten years would bring?
Tip Greeting 28: Three and four bedroom homes are the most popular amongst homebuyers. They resell the fastest!
Tip Greeting 29: A fireplace in the living room is great a focal point, but does not add much in real value.
Tip Greeting 30: You'll get a better price if you buy a house that's moderately landscaped or under-landscaped.
Tip Greeting 31: A house should have at least two bathrooms. One bathroom for day-to-day visitors and one to be shared by the other bedrooms.
Tip Greeting 32: Look for a kitchen that's close to the garage so it's a short trip hauling groceries in from the car.
Tip Greeting 33: It's unlikely you'll get a dollar-for-dollar return on installing a swimming pool. Have a pool for your own enjoyment, not as an investment.
Tip Greeting 34: There are times when a closing can be delayed by weeks through no fault of your own. Have a back-up plan prepared.
Tip Greeting 35: Large earnest deposits impress sellers. You may find that by making a large deposit, you can convince the seller to accept a lower offer.
Tip Greeting 36: Before closing, visit the property to ensure it's in the condition you requested and inspect that all repairs have been performed.
Tip Greeting 37: Ask the seller to disclose any conditions that may have an impact on your decision to purchase, including the neighbor's barking dogs.
Tip Greeting 38: It's easier to get approved for a mortgage if you make a larger down payment.
Tip Greeting 39: If you're buying, request that the seller keep the yard kept up and remove all trash before they move out.
Tip Greeting 40: VA and FHA loans are more detailed than conventional home loans, thus appraisal inspections are generally more expensive.
Tip Greeting 41: Everything in real estate is negotiable.
Tip Greeting 42: Personal items may be attractive to a buyer and can be included with the sale of your property. Don't think you have to take it all with you!
Tip Greeting 43: A Home Protection Plan is insurance paid by a seller that protects the buyer during their first year of home ownership.
Tip Greeting 44: Retain a detailed record of all your moving expenses. These costs may be tax deductible.
Tip Greeting 45: Great moving supplies include: numerous types of tape, scissors, markers, blankets, boxes, newspaper, plastic storage bins, and rope.
Tip Greeting 46: Free boxes can be obtained through supermarket and discount stores. Consider purchasing new boxes for your wardrobe.
Tip Greeting 47: If you're moving to another state, check to see if you need new car insurance.
Tip Greeting 48: If you're moving to a new state, notify your dentist, doctor and other health care professionals. Be sure to ask for record transfers and referrals.
Tip Greeting 49: Don't pack up all the tools! You'll need them handy for reassembling beds, furniture and other items.
Tip Greeting 50: E-mail spam is annoying! Gerken %26 Associates will not sell your name or information you submit through our website.
Tip Greeting 51: It's a good idea to change the entry locks when you move into your new home.
Tip Greeting 52: To save on a repair cost, consider doing part of the job yourself, like disassembly or prep work.
Tip Greeting 53: By raising a $500 deductible to $1,000, you'll save roughly 25 percent on your monthly homeowner's insurance.
Tip Greeting 54: Gerken %26 Associates will tailor a marketing plan specifically for your property to get it sold quick!
Tip Greeting 55: The typical mortgage application process is 30 to 60 days, although it can take as few as 7 and as long as 90 days.
Tip Greeting 56: Closing costs cover the administration and processing of your loan. In addition it may include property taxes, mortgage and hazard insurance.
Tip Greeting 57: Think about all the positives your current house offers. That's a great way to determine what your family will need in a new home.
Tip Greeting 58: Obtaining mortgage pre-approval will offer a realistic idea of the price range you can afford and demonstrate you're a serious buyer to sellers.
Tip Greeting 59: Do it at your convenience! This website offers access to property listings 24 hours a day from the comfort of your home.
Tip Greeting 60: If you're looking to buy or sell, this website will give you a good idea of the types of homes that are on the market and what they cost.
Tip Greeting 61: Take down family photos, collectables and souvenirs. They disrupt a potential homebuyer’s illusion of living in the house themselves.
Tip Greeting 62: Homebuyers want to know three immediate things: price, location and the number of bedrooms in the house.
Tip Greeting 63: Gerken %26 Associates provides information and access to any property on the MLS market in the Tri-Lakes area.
Tip Greeting 64: Did you know that Gerken %26 Associates is the oldest continuously owned real estate firm in Branson, Missouri?
Did you know that Gerken %26 Associates is the oldest continuously owned real estate firm in Branson, Missouri?
Gerken %26 Associates provides information and access to any property on the MLS market in the Tri-Lakes area.
Look for a kitchen that's close to the garage so it's a short trip hauling groceries in from the car.
A house should have at least two bathrooms. One bathroom for day-to-day visitors and one to be shared by the other bedrooms.
You'll get a better price if you buy a house that's moderately landscaped or under-landscaped.
A fireplace in the living room is a great focal point, but it does not add much in value.
Three and four bedroom homes are the most popular amongst homebuyers. They resell the fastest!
The housing market is hot! When the market was struggling in 1996, who would have predicted what the next ten years would bring?
Buy a home you expect to remain in for about seven years or more. This will maximize your investment in owning the home.
Detailed property listings can be done under the Tools tab in the Advanced Search options.
Want to know the current weather in Branson? Click on the sun on our home page.
There are buyers' markets and sellers' markets. Sometimes the market is hot; sometimes it's freezing cold.
When you own a home, you can do whatever you want with it! You get the benefits of the improvements made.
Owning a home is a great financial investment! Average appreciation on a house is approximately 5%25.
With a fixed rate mortgage, you'll have the same house payment for thirty years. If you rent, you can expect it to increase each year.
Whatever property taxes you pay in a given year may be deducted from your gross income, lowering your tax obligations.
Most lenders will request to review statements of your 401K, stocks, mutual funds, checking, saving and retirement accounts.
The more real estate agents who know about your home, the greater chance of getting it sold. We can help!
Real estate ads do not sell property directly. They only create a pool of potential buyers.
Ask to be given prior notice. Our agents will always set up an appointment before showing your home.
Homebuyers may feel uncomfortable viewing your house if you're home. Visit a library, grocery store or park to give them space.
When preparing to show your home, turn on all indoor and outdoor lights. A house looks more spacious and cheerful with the lights on.
Don't overload on scented sprays when preparing for visitors. Some people may be allergic or find the smell offensive.
Not everyone makes his or her bed every day, but when selling your home, it is recommended you develop the habit.
Moving can be both exciting and stressful. Here’s a checklist to help you plan ahead and stay organized throughout the adventure.
Four Weeks Before MovingBegin consuming foods and using cleaning supplies that will not be moved.Obtain copies of dental and medical records.Reserve a mover or rental truck.Purchase moving supplies, such as packing tape, boxes and bubble wrap.Obtain children’s school transcripts and check registration for enrollment procedures.Create a file folder for moving paperwork, including receipts and estimates.Three Weeks Before MovingHold a garage sale.Donate unwanted household items to local charity organizations.Verify loan requirements.Two Weeks Before MovingService your vehicles in preparation for the move.Obtain veterinary records and update pet tags and licenses with new address.Pick up your laundry, return rental items and retrieve any loaned items.One Week Before MovingDiscontinue the newspaper and other delivery services.Reconfirm moving and delivery dates with your mover or rental agency.Notify the post office and send change of address cards to friends, subscription services and creditors.Schedule utilities, cable TV, Internet, and phone services to be disconnected.Two Days Before MovingCreate a file folder of important information including a forwarding address for the new owner of your home.Conclude financial matters involving the sale of your home.Set aside items you'll need upon arrival: towels, soap, dishes, bedding, etc.One Day Before MovingBegin dismantling all large furniture.Disconnect major appliances.Defrost the refrigerator and freezer, leaving both doors open.Schedule utilities, cable TV, Internet, and phone services to be connected to new home.Moving DaySupervise movers.Check exterior for remaining items. Don't forget wind chimes, children and pet toys!Leave keys and garage door transmitters for new owners.Pack Like A Pro!Develop a master “to do” list so you won’t forget something critical.Sort and get rid of things you no longer want or need. Have a garage sale, donate to a charity, or recycle.Don’t throw out everything. If your inclination is to just toss it, ask yourself how frequently you use an item and how you'd feel if you no longer had it.Pack like items together. Put toys with toys, kitchen utensils with kitchen utensils.Decide what if anything you plan to move yourself. Precious items such as family photos, valuable breakables, or must-haves during the move should probably stay with you.Use the right box for the item. Loose items encourage breakage.Put heavy items in small boxes so they're easier to lift. Keep weight under 50 lbs. if possible.Don't over-pack boxes and increase the chances they will break.Wrap every fragile item separately and pad bottom and sides of boxes. Label every box on all sides. You never know how they'll be stacked and you don’t want to have to move other boxes aside to find out what’s there.Use color-coded labels to indicate which room each item should go in. Color-code a floor plan for your new house to help movers.Keep your moving documents together, including phone numbers, driver's name and van number. Also keep your address book handy.Back up your computer files before moving your computer.Remember, most movers won’t take plants.Inspect each box and all furniture for damage as soon as it arrives.Real Estate SourcesTri-Lakes Board of RealtorsParade of HomesNational Property ListingsCurrent Mortgage RatesMortgage CalculatorsRental SearchersFinancial LendingAllstar Home %26 Commercial LoansBranson BankCitizen's Union State BankFirst Community BankHeartland FundingLiberty BankNorthstar FinancingOzark Mountain BankRegions MortgageSt. Charles MortgageBranson Tri-Lakes AreaBranson Online Travel GuideBranson CourierHighway 13Branson Chamber of CommerceBranson LandingCity of BransonTable Rock Lake Chamber of CommerceThe Ozarks Trading PostCity of HollisterMovingU-HaulBudget RentalRyder Rental TrucksTwo Men and a TruckBoxes DeliveredFedExThe UPS StoreMissouriSecretary of StateWorkforce ResourceOzarks Regional Economic PartnershipSpringfield Business JournalDepartment of Economic DevelopmentU.S. Census BureauSmall Business AssociationAirportSpringfield-Branson National AirportHospitalsSkaggs Community Health CenterCoxHealthSt. John's Health SystemSchoolsBranson Public SchoolsCollege of the OzarksMissouri Department of ElementaryReeds Spring Public SchoolsEntertainmentSIXSilver Dollar CityDixie StampedeWhite WaterShepherd of the HillsCelebration CityShowboat Branson BelleMel TillisThe BaldknobbersMoe BandyAndy WilliamsJim StaffordMickey GilleyPresleys' Country JubileeShoji TabuchiThe OsmondsYakov SmirnoffThe Grand PalaceCountry ToniteBranson IMAXHotels %26 Convention CentersBarrington Hotel %26 SuitesBig Cedar ResortChateau on the LakePrince Charles InnWelk ResortRamada LimitedRadissonSettle Inn ResortsArea Hotel Phone NumbersRestaurantsBob EvansCandlestick InnCasa FuentesDineBranson.comFamous Dave's Bar-B-QueGrand Country BuffetGolden CorralLiberty TavernLuigi's Pizza KitchenLoneStar SteakhouseMazzio's PizzaRib CribRuby TuesdaysWelcome to Gerken %26 Associates Realtors, your resource for buying and selling real estate in Branson, Missouri since 1975. As members of the Multiple Listing Service, we provide information and access to any property for sale in Southwest Missouri.
Please bookmark us to stay current with property listings, area information and local news. This website was created with you in mind. Click and have fun with it!
Selling property quickly takes more than placing an ad in the paper, a sign in the yard and holding open houses. In fact, only 13%25 of nationally sold homes are done by For Sale By Owners.
If you're ready to give a real estate agent a shot at selling your home, you've looked into the right team. Gerken %26 Associates can manage all your tasks and assist you in saving time and hassle.
We can provide maximum exposure to the greatest number of qualified buyers and get your property sold quickly. In fact, by working to get the best possible price for your home, you'll make money hiring us.
There are many ways in which Gerken %26 Associates can help you. First of all, we put up our own finances to market and advertise your home. Trained agents backed by superior marketing support, will design and distribute advertising and targeted mail to buyers in newspapers, trade magazines and public relations.
Professionally designed yard signs are immediately placed on and around your property. And we keep an eye on them too! It's a rare day to see a Gerken %26 Associates yard sign lying in the ditch.
Our agents have trained experience in handling negotiations, counterproposals, contracts, estimating closing costs and net proceeds.
Many of the local lenders, surveyors, appraisers, inspectors and other professionals working in this industry are our friends. You won't have to take a day off work to meet them. That's our job. We'll stick by your side and monitor your transaction all the way through closing day.
When you list with Gerken %26 Associates, the whole team represents you. Not just one agent.
We are experts at online marketing. Your home will be immediately placed on the online Tri-Lakes Listing Service, Realtor.com, GerkenandAssociates.com, Google.com, Yahoo.com, Oodle.com, Trulia.com, LiveDeal.com, Edgeio.com, PropSmart.com, USCondoEx.com, Homes.Point2.com, RealEstateAdvisor.com and all of our agent's own personal websites. Together, these websites receive millions of hits a day from buyers wanting to stay current with the latest listings.
We also offer the latest trends in online home viewing. We'll come out to your property with camera in hand and create a pictorial tour of your home. Your home will then be available 24 hours a day to preview. Even people in Japan can virtually walk through!
For further information on how we sell homes, please check out the services we offer our
Residential Sellers.
Ever watch a house in your neighborhood sell in a couple of weeks and then another one take six months? The right agent makes all the difference.
If you're looking to sell, Gerken %26 Associates is the team to interview! We'll come out to your property and based upon its condition and that of the market, compare it to historical sales data of property that's been sold in your area.
Once we've helped you determine a price, we'll offer you suggestions on presenting your property to the current market.
In choosing us to be your agent, we'll get busy marketing your property right away and submit your property to the online Tri-Lakes Listing Service, Realtor.com, GerkenandAssociates.com, Google.com, Yahoo.com, Oodle.com, Trulia.com, LiveDeal.com, Edgeio.com, PropSmart.com, USCondoEx.com, Homes.Point2.com, RealEstateAdvisor.com and all of our agent's own personal websites. Together, these websites receive millions of hits a day from buyers wanting to stay current with the latest listings.
We'll begin talking to as many area sales agents as we can about your property so that their buyers are aware of your listing. That way instead of having just one agent working for you, you'll soon have hundreds!
Gerken %26 Associates offers aggressive marketing plans with our listing agreements. Our trained sales and marketing staff design and distribute print advertising, handle website promotion and send targeted mail out to buyers in newspapers, trade magazines and public relations. In doing so, we'll bring forth a larger supply of buyers to hold pricing power and sell your property quickly.
We have a local reputation as cooperative and enthusiastic sales agents and take clear instructions on showing policies for your home.
Through effective use of the latest technologies, we'll keep you informed on your property throughout the viewing process.
Gerken %26 Associates has negotiated thousands of favorable terms and conditions for sellers. After 30 years in the business, we've become like old guard dogs at this. We’ll make sure all the i's are dotted and t's crossed when it comes to closing.
Please contact us today if you're in the market to sell or are considering it. We’d love to check out your property and see how we can assist you.
For further information on how we sell homes, please check out the services we offer
For Sale By Owners.
If you're looking to buy or sell, this website will give you a good idea of the types of homes that are on the market and what they cost.
Homebuyers want to know three immediate things: price, location and the number of bedrooms in the house.
Do it at your convenience! This website offers access to property listings 24 hours a day from the comfort of your home.
Obtaining mortgage pre-approval will offer a realistic idea of the price range you can afford and demonstrate you're a serious buyer to sellers.
Think about all the positives your current house offers. That's a great way to determine what your family will need in a new home.
Closing costs cover the administration and processing of your loan. In addition it may include property taxes, mortgage and hazard insurance.
The typical mortgage application process is 30 to 60 days, although it can take as few as 7 and as long as 90 days.
Gerken %26 Associates will tailor a marketing plan specifically for your property to get it sold quick!
By raising a $500 deductible to $1,000, you'll save roughly 25%25 on your monthly homeowner's insurance.
To save on a repair cost, consider doing part of the job yourself, like disassembly or prep work.
It's a good idea to change the entry locks when you move into your new home.
E-mail spam is annoying! Gerken %26 Associates will not sell your name or information you submit through our website.
Don't pack up all the tools! You'll need them handy for reassembling beds, furniture and other items.
If you're moving to a new state, notify your dentist, doctor and other health care professionals. Be sure to ask for record transfers and referrals.
If you're moving to another state, check to see if you need new car insurance.
Free boxes can be obtained through supermarket and discount stores. Consider purchasing new boxes for your wardrobe.
Great moving supplies include: numerous types of tape, scissors, markers, blankets, boxes, newspaper, plastic storage bins, and rope.
Retain a detailed record of all your moving expenses. These costs may be tax deductible.
A Home Protection Plan is insurance paid by a seller that protects the buyer during their first year of home ownership.
Personal items may be attractive to a buyer and can be included with the sale of your property. Don't think you have to take it all with you!
Take down family photos, collectables and souvenirs. They disrupt a potential homebuyer’s illusion of living in the house themselves.
Everything in real estate is negotiable.
VA and FHA loans are more detailed than conventional home loans, thus appraisal inspections are generally more expensive.
"Gerken %26 Associates latest technology provided access to MLS information and mapping software that helped us eliminate places without having to drive all over. Their organization and pre-planning made it possible for us to stop looking after just two places."Dr. Chris Weber
Springfield, Missouri
"We stumbled upon a house we liked which was For Sale By Owner. Because we've used Gerken %26 Associates numerous times before, we informed the seller we would only make an offer through them. Gerken %26 Associates kept us safe and handled all the negotiations with great professionalism."
Ross %26 Janice Summers
Branson, Missouri
"Our decision to move happened quickly and we left almost over night. We knew being many hours away, we would need a real estate agency who could take care of everything for us. Gerken %26 Associates immediately sprang into action with their marketing plan and listed us in magazines, newspapers, websites, and who knows where else. We soon had a full price contract and they handled the entire transaction online with great professionalism."
Tracy %26 Robert Kalina
Sevierville, Tennessee
"Gerken %26 Associates means so much to us. You took us to the place we knew was perfect and thought it would never happen until you. Talking to you all on the phone is like talking to my close friends. I love the picture of our first home with the team that helped us get there!"
Sarah %26 Bryan Diercks
Branson, Missouri
"It has been almost 5 months since you helped us find the most wonderful Lake house in the Ozarks. Having been in sales for many years, it is hard to find a company of individuals like you who are motivated to provide quality customer service needed to sustain good business relationships. Your professionalism, knowledge of the market and sincere desire to work with us on our unique demands is much appreciated."
Dave %26 Shirley Albright
Wichita, Kansas
"I recently purchased an investment home through Gerken %26 Associates. I am a real estate broker in California and have been licensed for 30 years. I was very pleased with the way Gerken %26 Associates handled the transaction. I did not travel to Missouri for the closing, but they handled the details and responded immediately. I have bought and sold many houses, but I have never worked with any company that was so quick to respond to my concerns as they did. I will definitely use them again."
Grace Craig
Rio Vista, California
"Gerken %26 Associates Realtors went more than the extra mile to help us get into our new home. As someone who was moving away from the only home we had known for more than 27 years, Gerken %26 Associates were both extremely helpful in every way. Thank you again for everything!"
Jack %26 Roxanne Walker
Jackson, Tennessee
"Once again my expectations for the stress of selling a home were literally squashed by Gerken %26 Associates. Their high integrity, honesty and knowledge of the market, make buying or selling a home in Taney County a positive experience. Even in the 21st century when high tech is common place, you will receive warmth and personal attention from them as if you're their sole client."
Anneta Maric
Hollister, Missouri
"We traveled to Branson several times a year and called Gerken %26 Associates to consider purchasing. Throughout the next two years, they kept us up to date with area real estate and were patient while we made a decision. We finally found the right place, a condo, last fall and are so happy with our purchase!"
Roger %26 Sally Gorgas
Mineral Point, Wisconsin
"We bought a vacant lot to build on from Gerken %26 Associates 16 years ago and have the highest respect for them as good, honest people. When it was time for us to sell, we didn’t think twice of giving them the listing to our cabin. Dedication and personal service is second to none. A job well done!"
Bill %26 Betty Montalbano
Blue Eye, Missouri
"My brother Doug and I hired Gerken %26 Associates to sell a piece of commercial property that we had in our family for many years. Their staff was attentive, accurate and informative when going through both the negotiations and the closing."
Chip Mason
Branson, Missouri
"Thanks very much to Gerken %26 Associates for your help in making it easy to sell my condo from a distance. It was so convenient for me not to have to be in Branson and still get it sold at full price!"
Gay Hasbrook
Bartlesville, Oklahoma
"Buying a home can be a stressful situation, especially when you live 1,200 miles away! We arrived from Florida for a long weekend and were referred to Gerken %26 Associates. They worked day and night to find us a home in the short time we had. The day before returning to Florida, we found our home and signed a contract!"
Frank %26 Caris King
Jupiter, Florida
"Thanks for the help in finding our new home. We also appreciate all the referrals to vendors too. They have all been so nice, competent and oh yes… on time!"
Jim %26 Donna Rouch
Branson, Missouri
"Thank you for making the purchase of my commercial property an easy and pleasurable experience. I’ve purchased several properties from different real estate companies in the past and my experience with your company has been the best. I will definitely recommend Gerken %26 Associates to my customers at Casa Fuentes Mexican Restaurant."
Manuel Fuentes
Branson, Missouri
"The entire team cared about what I wanted in a home and provided solutions to the normal (and not so normal) dilemmas that arise when buying real estate. My experience with Gerken %26 Associates was outstanding from start to finish."
Sandy DeLapp
Battlefield, Missouri
"Over the years I have had the pleasure of working with numerous Realtors, however, when it comes to listing my spec homes, I always use Gerken %26 Associates because they don’t just show them, they SELL them."
George Cramer
Branson, Missouri
"Being a first-time homebuyer is overwhelming but Gerken %26 Associates ensured a smooth transaction. They took the time to validate my concerns and weren’t just out for a quick sale. They fit the process into my busy schedule by emailing me listings with photos and directions. From the first time I met with an agent in their office, through closing day, they were at my side. I recommend Gerken %26 Associates to all first-time homebuyers."
John Wilton
Tulsa, Oklahoma
"The agents were always professional in appearance and in the way they handled the selling of our home. Should we return to Branson, we will definitely use Gerken %26 Associates again."
Darlene %26 Al Balistreri
Branson, Missouri
"We stopped by Gerken %26 Associates during our first visit to Branson. Although we were just looking, they were very helpful and never pressured us. Throughout the house hunting experience, the team was professional and everything they told us proved to be true. We eventually decided on a lake cabin and are well on our way to enjoying lake life in Branson."
Mike %26 Cindy Lotz
Belleville, Illinois
"We chose Gerken %26 Associates to list our home based upon their local reputation. They are wonderful real estate agents and made us feel like we were their primary clients."
Donald %26 Beverly Emery
Mendon, Illinois
"If you're ready to buy or sell a house, try this formula that works for me: (Worry Free) %2B (Latest Technology) %2B (High Exposure) / (Multiple Showings) %2B (Frequent Feedback) = Gerken %26 Associates!"
Lor Radant
Branson, Missouri
"On behalf of my parents as well as myself, I'd like to thank everyone at Gerken %26 Associates. You were so helpful when we purchased our land and extremely helpful when we needed to sell. We're very grateful for our contact with you and cannot say enough about your services. You guys definitely go above and beyond."
Sandy Knapp
Orland Park, Illinois
"Gerken %26 Associates eliminated all of the intimidation I felt as a new homebuyer and answered all the questions and concerns throughout the process. Thanks so much!"
Colin Duggan
Omaha, Nebraska
"Since the purchase of my home, I have referred several friends to Gerken %26 Associates because I'm confident in their dedication to personal service."
Cindy Thomas
Harrison, Arkansas
"New to the area, we saw the Gerken %26 Associates office on Highway 76 and stopped in to inquire about vacant land for sale in Branson. The sales agents were professional, helpful and eager to assist. We ended up buying a 3 acre lot in one of their newly developed subdivisions, Huntington Green Estates, to build our dream home. We are very satisfied with our purchase and looking forward to living in the Ozarks."
Dennis %26 Debbie De La Torre
Oswego, Illinois
"Gerken %26 Associates goes above and beyond the call of duty on a regular basis. We don’t buy property from anybody but them."
Lauren %26 Maxine Gibney
Palo, Iowa
"We recently had the pleasure of working with Gerken %26 Associates for the second time. We purchased a home through them 15 years ago and when we decided to sell, there was no question as to whom we would use to handle our property. Professionalism and friendliness combined are the main characteristics that make the entire Gerken family and their associates the best agents we can recommend in the Tri-Lakes area."
Ron %26 Pat Hutchason
Blue Eye, Missouri
"Gerken %26 Associates followed through in all aspects of my purchase - from finding the right property to closing day. Exceptional performance!"
Heide Niffen
Forsyth, Missouri
"Gerken %26 Associates Realtors was very helpful! They patiently answered my hundreds of questions and kept me informed in every regards of my first-time transaction as a new home buyer."
Brandi Falkenrath
Hollister, Missouri
"We just returned from buying a vacation condo in Branson. From my first contact online with Gerken %26 Associates, I felt they were committed to finding the condo we were looking for. We soon found it and they helped us with every single step we needed to take to purchase it. They were always available and never seemed frazzled by my constant questions and concerns!"
Linda %26 Robert Dieterle
Aarvada, Colorado
"After countless months of looking for a home in Branson, we followed a Gerken %26 Associates' sign to the most beautiful neighborhood. Upon seeing the home, we called their office to view it. We trusted in them, as they gave generously in time, effort and patience to walk us through the purchasing process. We recommend Gerken %26 Associates for all your real estate needs."
Lee %26 Cherri Cahow
Ridgedale, Missouri
"Thanks again for everything. You are complete pros to work with every step of the way! That was the smoothest, quickest closing I have ever been through. Please thank everyone on the Gerken Team. I would give you a referral anytime. You are always welcome to have people call me for one."
Laura Parramore
Blue Eye, MissouriIt's easier to get approved for a mortgage if you make a larger down payment.If you're buying, request that the seller keep the yard kept up and remove all trash before they move out.Ask the seller to disclose any conditions that may have an impact on your decision to purchase, including the neighbor's barking dogs.This page will have a list of recent properties.Need content for this page.
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Business name and description.Before closing, visit the property to ensure it's in the condition you requested and inspect that all repairs have been performed.In today's real estate world, you have a lot of options. From local brokerage firms, to national franchises, discount firms, to Internet-only firms, selecting the right agency depends on your needs and budget.
Shop for a Realtor the way you'd shop for a good financial advisor, attorney, accountant, or any other professional. Real estate agents influence numerous factors such as the number of properties to choose from, information and guidance, contract negotiation, to the quality of your purchase.
By taking your time and doing your homework, you'll find the right agency to represent you. Once you do, we hope that leads you back to us!
For over 30 years, Gerken %26 Associates continues to play a substantial role in the real estate market that Branson and the surrounding communities have to offer.
We're excited to be in this profession and remain active in Local, State and National Realtor Associations. Our brokers and sales agents continually further their education by obtaining professional designations from the Missouri and National Associations of Realtors. In fact, both our founding partners served full terms as President of the Missouri Association of Realtors, an organization of over 24,000 members.
Personal service is our firm's mantra and is created by friendships, not just business. We have a can-do attitude and agents proudly, “litter the walls” with Quality Service Awards they’ve achieved.
Gerken %26 Associates has gone to great lengths as a real estate firm to hire the most talented, professionals the Branson Tri-Lakes area has to offer. Our agents offer you these characteristics:
Professional in appearance, attitude, demeanor and real estate capabilities.
Experience, knowledge and participation in the local marketplace.
Commitment to a schedule of communication, follow-up activities and attending to details in order to keep you informed on all activity involving your property.
Willing to prepare, present and commit to a written comprehensive marketing plan that is tailored around your goals for achievement.
Skilled and accomplished in formulating and implementing effective negotiating strategies.
A reputation for caring, committed and trustworthy service.
Whose company has a strong local, state and nation reputation for service, ethical performance and outstanding resources.
With lots of surprises along the way, you'll need a real estate agency that's easily accessible, understands your needs and will navigate the system for you. Gerken %26 Associates offers you the training, experience, connections, and ability to make it happen. Buying or selling, we hope you'll choose us to be the agency that represents you.
From property search to closing day, we're with you. We don't just boast that – we've built up a 32 year local reputation doing it.Recognized as one of the most vibrant communities in the United States, Branson is an ideal place to raise a family, start a business or enjoy retirement. Citizens of all ages, enjoy numerous recreational activities, employment opportunities, scenic beauty, and mild climates.
Although small in population, Branson has the amenities of a large community. With a robust economy, well-funded schools, moderate cost of living, entertainment and gorgeous residential homes, you'll find Branson to be a unique and fun place to live.
Cost of Living
Revenue from tourism helps keep Branson city taxes low. In fact, the cost of living in Branson is roughly 6 percent below the national average!
Throughout the Tri-Lakes area, a wide variety of homes and prices can be found. From multi-million dollar lakefront estates to moderately priced single family homes, you'll find the right place for you. Especially if you choose Gerken %26 Associates to assist with your home search!
Employment Opportunities
Branson presents various careers choices in professional services, retail, entertainment, crafts, food service and hospitality industries. Wages are above the national average and many positions include full benefits.
Whatever career opportunities you're looking for, you'll find them in Branson. How many other cities in the United States offer you the choice to be a doctor or an incredible acrobat?
Health Care
Branson's hospital and specialty clinics provide a full range of healthcare services for residents and visitors. Skaggs Community Health Center, a 111-bed hospital, was recently rated among the top ten in Missouri and one of the United States 100 Top Orthopedic Hospitals.
Many excellent medical doctors are on staff at Skaggs. Specialties represented by Skaggs' medical staff of more than 100 physicians include: Anesthesiology, Cardiology, Emergency Medicine, Family Medicine, Family Medicine/Obstetrics, General Practice, General Surgery, Gynecology, Infectious Disease, Internal Medicine, Nephrology, Neurology, Obstetrics, Gynecology, Occupational Health, Oncology, Ophthalmology, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Orthopedic Surgery, Otorhinolaryngology, Pathology, Pediatrics, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Psychiatry, Pulmonology, Radiology, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, and Urology.
Emergency Services
Branson is served by Skaggs Community Health Center and a federal 911 emergency system program. The Branson Police Department serves the community 24-hours a day in areas of traffic, patrol, communications, investigations, jail, and records.
All Branson police officers are certified under the Missouri Police officers Training Act and are cross-trained in emergency medical services and water rescue. Branson's police, fire and rescue teams professionally care for the community and its visitors.
Transportation
Located amongst the Ozark Mountains, the city of Branson is 13 miles north of the Arkansas state line and 35 miles south of Springfield, Missouri. Most visitors arrive by automobile, entering the Branson Tri-Lakes area from U.S. Highway 65 or Missouri 160.
Southwest Missouri's largest commercial airport is the Springfield-Branson National Airport, located 45 miles north of Branson. A smaller commercial facility is located 35 miles south of Branson, in Harrison, Arkansas. The closest airport is at the College of the Ozarks in Point Lookout, just 3 miles from Branson, which serves as a private facility serving non-commercial aircraft.
The Union Pacific Railroad carries freight into the Branson Tri-Lakes area which includes western Taney County and southern Stone County in southwestern Missouri.
Weather
The Branson Tri-Lakes area is blessed with four distinct seasons, offering spectacular views of wooded hills and lakes. Clean air and clean water, scenic highways and hiking trails draw visitors year-round. Gorgeous Dogwoods and Redbuds blossom in the spring as well as colorful foliage each autumn. Wild flowers and animals including deer, foxes, coyotes, bobcats and birds are abundant.
Precipitation is largely in the form of rain, with an average total rainfall per year of 40 inches. Average snowfall per year is 15.9 inches.
Now with season-extending programs, many Branson businesses are open year-round. Each passing year, more and more people are coming to Branson between Thanksgiving and New Year's.
Outdoor Fun
Nestled in the beautiful Ozark Mountains, Branson is a great place for entertainment and outdoor activities. Locals and visitors alike, enjoy a broad range of opportunities for camping, biking, canoeing, hiking, boating, picnicking, and other outdoor activities.
Public and private nature parks are spread throughout the area as well as ten world-class golf courses. Hunting seasons are regulated by the Missouri Department of Conservation. Outdoor theaters provide plenty of drama under the stars while daytime recreations wear kids out quick!
Lake Activities
Branson is home to three breath-taking scenic lakes. Locals enjoy swimming, fishing, boating, jet skiing, parasailing, snorkeling, tubing, camping and more.
Table Rock Lake, created in the late 1950’s is a popular recreational lake, just 10 minutes south of Branson. You’ll see plenty of locals and visitors alike “living it up” through recreational boating, swimming, parasailing, scuba diving or any other freshwater activity. Tucked away in coves all over, are beautiful lakeside properties and cozy weekend resorts. Largely known for its awesome bass fishing, Table Rock Lake has become increasingly popular as a tournament site as well.
Lake Taneycomo begins at the Table Rock Dam south and west of Branson, winding 22 miles to Forsyth, Missouri. Formerly a portion of the White River, the construction of Table Rock Dam turned Lake Taneycomo into a cold-water lake offering year-around rainbow trout fishing straight from the hatchery! An excellent environment for trout, Taneycomo attracts anglers throughout the year, making it Missouri's #1 Trout Fishing Lake.
Bull Shoals Lake begins at Forsyth and offers much of the same recreational and sporting opportunities as Table Rock, but in a less populated and developed environment. Bull Shoals is a local favorite for smooth-water skiing and scuba diving.
Shopping %26 Dining
Three enormous factory outlet shopping centers gained Branson a national ranking for the second largest outlet shopping destination in the nation! Several large discount stores and hundreds of unique stores offer a variety of clothing, hand-crafted gifts, house wares, luggage, jewelry, shoes, and other fine assortments at reduced prices.
The 76 "Strip" and historic downtown offer hundreds of tasty restaurants and appealing shops waiting to be explored. Dozens of antique shops and flea markets offer collectibles. Custom made and other specialty items from home furnishings to jewelry are readily available at craft villages and arts and craft malls throughout the area.
Make way to the Branson Landing, to take in the splendor of a new $420 million recreational development on Lake Taneycomo. Over 140 luxury waterfront condos align with 100 fine dining and retail shops anchored by Bass Pro Shops and Belk. Included in the complex is a soon-to-be Hilton 4-star, 260-room convention hotel, a 220,000 convention center and boat marina.
Stroll down the Branson Landing's boardwalk while being entertained by dozens of street entertainers and two high-tech water fountains. The main water fountain features six canons shooting water 120 feet in the air along with 13 fire canons shooting balls of flame dissipating at 40 feet, with the water and flames synchronized to music. This $8 million fountain was manufactured by Wet Design, the company responsible for several well-known fountains, including the one at the Bellagio hotel in Las Vegas.
Entertainment
More live entertainment theaters are located in Branson, Missouri than anywhere else in the United States. The area offers a vast amount of entertainment with more than 45 theaters and 100 shows filled with music, magic, comedy, special effects, animals, trick-riders, water displays and pyrotechnics.
Branson is world-famous for its assortment of music entertainment, including country, pop, rock n' roll, swing, classical, gospel, and Broadway. Throughout the day, visitors can watch breakfast shows, matinees and evening performances. Branson boasts three major amusement parks: Silver Dollar City, White Water and Celebration City.
Silver Dollar City, built in 1960 atop Marvel Cave, is a turn-of-the-century Ozarks village featuring the handcrafts and artwork created by resident crafters, mountain music at locations throughout the park, street shows, restaurants and snack stands and themed rides such as an 1880’s steam train, log flume and others. It has been Branson's largest single attraction throughout its history and is one of the Midwest's leading attractions.
Shepherd of the Hills Homestead and Outdoor Theater, opened in 1960, is the home of the nation's largest outdoor historical drama. Named after one of the most widely read novels in publishing history, Harold Bell Wright's "The Shepherd of the Hills," the novel is re-enacted nightly by a cast of native players in a huge outdoor amphitheater. The Homestead offers crafts, music, shops, games, trail rides and other entertainment during daytime hours, as well as the 230 foot Inspiration Tower and the historical "Old Matt's Cabin.
From miniature golf, to numerous Go-Kart tracks and amphibious lake rides, if you get bored in Branson – it's your own darn fault!
Electricity
Empire Electric: 417.334.3174
White River Electric: 417.335.9335
Water
Branson Water: 417.334.3345
Hollister Water: 417.334.3268
Tri-States Utility: 417.334.4189
Telephone %26 Cable
Century Tel: 800.201.4099
Gas %26 Propane
EmpireGas: 417.739.2785
Titan Propane: 417.334.5111
Town %26 Country: 417.334.1661
Garbage Collection
American Disposal: 417.334.5547Large earnest deposits impress sellers. You may find that by making a large deposit, you can convince the seller to accept a lower offer.Branson takes its education seriously, offering well-funded, modern facilities to the Tri-Lakes area. Currently, there are five public schools and three private schools in the Branson R-IV district.
To serve its more than 2,500 students, Branson Public Schools employs over 150 teachers, holding a low teacher-to-student ratio of 1 to 16.
Other popular area schools close to the Branson community include Hollister Public Schools, Forsyth Public Schools and Blue Eye Public Schools.
Reeds Spring Public Schools have taken steps toward becoming Professional Learning Communities (PLC). PLC includes teacher collaboration, a Freshmen Mentoring Program and guided study hall for students who need extra help.
Private schools, such as New Life Academy, not only focus on high academic standards too, but Christian ethics as well.
Regardless of your choice, you'll find area schools to be well equipped with excellent educational tools, athletic facilities, and resourceful science and computer labs.
The College of the Ozarks is located just south of Branson in Point Lookout. This four-year college, 1,000 acre campus is home to over 1,600 students.
Nationwide, the college has gained a reputation for strong academics and is commonly referred to as "Hard Work U". There, the college hosts dozens of programs for students to work their way through college instead of paying tuition.
Branson Vocational schools and many public interest groups offer education in the area as well, including the Omar Gibson Vocational Technical School and Ozarks Community Technical School.
Branson R-IV School District
400 Cedar Ridge Dr.
Branson, Missouri 65616
Phone: 417.334.6541
Branson Kindergarten Center
Level: K
Student Capacity: 300
402 Cedar Ridge Dr.
Branson, Missouri 65616
Phone: 417.336.1887
Branson Primary School
Level: 1-2
Student Capacity: 560
404 Cedar Ridge Dr.
Branson, Missouri 65616
Phone: 417.334.5137
Branson Elementary School
Level: 3-4
Student Capacity: 500
396 Cedar Ridge Dr.
Branson, Missouri 65616
Phone: 417.334.5135
Branson Intermediate School
Level: 5-6
Student Capacity: 500
308 Cedar Ridge Dr.
Branson, Missouri 65616
Phone: 417.332.3201
Branson Junior High School
Level: 7-8
Student Capacity: 550
263 Buccaneer Blvd
Branson, Missouri 65616
Phone: 417.334.3087
Branson High School
Level: 9-12
Student Capacity: 1,200
935 Buchanan Rd.
Branson, Missouri 65616
Phone: 417.334.6511There are times when a closing can be delayed by weeks through no fault of your own. Have a back-up plan prepared.General
Land Area: 18.3 square milesElevation: 947 feetLakes: 3Parks: 13Theaters: 52Theater Seats: 60,317Restaurants: 445Restaurant Seats: 37,048Hotels %26 Motel Rooms: 18,578Convention Facilities: 12Radio Stations: 1 AM, 4 FMTelevision Stations: 5
Population
Total Population: 6,807Median Age: 43 yearsUnder 18: 22.7%25Over 65: 20.2%25Median Home Price: $121,600Average Household Size: 2.21
Tax Rates
Retail Tax: 7.475%25Restaurant Tax: 11.475%25Entertainment Tax: 11.475%25Property Tax: $0.4853 per $100 assessed (For a $150,000 home, annual city property tax would be $138)
City Services
Budget: $40 millionFire Department Personnel: 45Police Department Personnel: 40Residential Water: $1.55 per 1,000 gallonsCommercial Water: $2.32 per 1,000 gallonsResidential Sewer: .96%A2 per 1,000 gallonsCommercial Sewer: $1.84 per 1,000 gallons
Tourism
March through DecemberOver 7.8 million people visit a year$50 million in yearly sales tax revenue
Mileage To Branson
Joplin: 123Kansas City: 215St. Louis: 253Tulsa: 230Topeka: 273Memphis: 301Oklahoma City: 334Wichita: 356Des Moines: 401Omaha: 401Dallas: 433Indianapolis: 499Chicago: 547Cincinnati: 609Minneapolis: 677San Antonio: 707Houston: 716Cleveland: 811
Landmarks %26 Historic Places
American Presidential MuseumBonniebrook Historical SocietyRalph Foster MuseumRoy Rogers-Dale Evans MuseumVeterans Memorial MuseumThe Titanic MuseumLaura Ingalls Wilder Home %26 Museum
Major Shopping Areas
Branson LandingGrand Country SquareGrand VillageEngler BlockFactory Merchants OutletThe Shoppes at Branson MeadowsTanger Outlet CenterBranson MallCoffelt Country Crossroads
Major Attractions
Silver Dollar CityWhite Water ParkCelebration CityDixie Stampede Dinner %26 ShowBranson LandingJim StaffordLawrence Welk Champagne TheatreShoji TabuchiYakov SmirnoffShepard of the HillsThe BaldknobbersMoe BandyAndy WilliamsMickey GilleyPresleys’ Country JubileeBranson IMAXCountry TonightRide the DucksJoseph %26 The Technicolor Dream CoatThe Incredible Acrobats of ChinaCirqueThe LegendsRipley's Believe It Or Not!The Hollywood Wax MuseumKirby Van BirchTable Rock Lake Recreation AreaBranson Scenic RailroadShowboat Branson BelleRecreational activities
Major Dining
Applebee’sB.T. Bones SteakhouseBob EvansBranson CafeBuckingham'sCandlestick InnChateau GrilleCracker Barrel Devil's PoolFall Creek Steak HouseGolden CorralGrand Country BuffetIHOPKentucky Fried ChickenKrispy KremeLandry's Seafood HouseLittle HaciendaLonestar Steakhouse %26 SaloonLuigi's Pizza KitchenMajestic SteakhouseMazzio's PizzaMcDonald'sOlive GardenOutBack Steak %26 Oyster BarPaneraPapa John'sGolden Paradise Grill %26 SteakhousePasta House Co.Red LobsterRib CribShoney'sShorty SmallsShowboat Branson BelleSonic Drive-InSteak N ShakeTaco BellTony Z's Italian RistoranteTop of the RockWendy'sZoey’s
Golf Courses
Pointe Royale Golf Course: A 6,067 yard, 18-hole course, Pointe Royale is a premier championship course located in a scenic condominium resort setting in Branson on Lake Taneycomo just below Table Rock Dam.
Thousand Hills Golf Resort: A 5,111 yard, 18-hole course, Thousand Hills is conveniently located in the heart of Branson.
Holiday Hills Golf Club: Located just three miles east of Branson, newly renovated Holiday Hills offers a 5,771 yard, 18-hole course.
Ledgestone Golf Course: Located in Stonebridge Village, Ledgestone is a 6,724 yard, 18-hole course with scenic and challenging terrain.
Branson Creek Golf Club: This all-new Tom Fazio-designed 18-hole course offers 7,012 yards of scenic and challenging golf.
Top of the Rock Golf Course: This 9-hole executive course was designed by Jack Nicklaus and offers 1,330 yards overlooking Table Rock Lake.
Fun Facts
Branson attracts over 7.3 million visitors annually from around the world.
Branson boasts the #1 theme park in the world: Silver Dollar City.
There are over 45 music theatres, 300 hotels, and 200 restaurants.
Offers more theatre seats than Broadway and Las Vegas combined.
Roy Clark was the first of the national country stars to give his name to a theatre.
Silver Dollar City was created by those making crafts while waiting outside the depths of Marvel Cave.
Originally, Branson drew tourists because it had a commercial ice plant, soft drink bottling plant, candy factory, and an ice cream factory all next to the waterfront.
Tourists came to Branson in the 1930's largely due to Harold Bell Wright. He wrote the Shepherd of the Hills, a novel based on the the Ozark area and its settlers.
It took 4 years to build Table Rock Dam with an estimated construction cost of $65,420,000.
The Presley's were the first to erect a simple metal building on the road west of Branson and waited each night for guests to show up.
Notable Moments
1907: Harold Bell Wright publishes the novel "Shepherd of the Hills".
1912: Branson is incorporated with 1,200 residents.
1932: Lake Taneycomo becomes a popular destination and inexpensive vacation spot.
1945: Hugo Herschend and his family relocate from Chicago and lease Marvel Cave.
1958: Table Rock Dam is completed after four years of construction.
1959: The "Baldknobbers" hold their show in the basement of Branson City Hall.
1961: Silver Dollar City opens as a "crafts show" for the local artisans.
1975: Gerken %26 Associates is established!
1976: A 2-lane highway with alternating third passing lane is completed to accommodate the large and ever increasing number of visitors driving to Branson.
1982: Three new large-scale theaters are completed, including the Starlite Theater.
1987: Box Car Willie becomes the first celebrity to open his own theater in Branson.
1988: The Factory Merchants Outlet Mall, commonly referred to as the “Red Roof Mall” opens.
1989: Inspiration Tower at Shepherd of the Hills opens to the public.
1990: The Ozark Mountain Christmas celebration takes place for the first time, thus extending Branson’s tourism season by four months.
1991: Branson receives national recognition as a great place for entertainment from Time Magazine, People, The Los Angeles Times, Wall Street Journal and 60 Minutes.
1993: Over 22 theaters feature national stars like Mel Tillis, Mickey Gilley, Ray Stevens, Moe Bandy, Buck Trent and Shoji Tabuchi.
1995: Other famous music stars like Andy Williams, the Osmonds, Tony Orlando, Bobby Vinton, Wayne Newton, and Jim Stafford arrive in town and construct their own theaters.
1997: Shepherd of the Hills celebrates its 5,000th show to become America's most performed outdoor drama.
2003: Branson hosts over seven million visitors, almost half of them coming from 300 or more miles away.
2004: Branson Landing is announced and downtown planning begins.
2006: Branson Landing opens and the Branson Chamber of Commerce membership exceeds 1,200.
*Source: Branson Chamber of CommerceKnowledge and experience is the foundation to successful real estate transactions. If this is your first time buying or you'd simply like a refresh course, below is some great advice to keep in mind.
By having an idea of what to expect and being prepared, you'll be much more likely to emerge with a home your confident and proud of.
Get Pre-Qualified
Start the real estate process by visiting several lenders to compare rates, loan costs and service. Once you've made your choice, they will pre-qualify you for a home mortgage loan.
In order to get approved, they'll review your credit history and ask you to submit documentation of savings and investments, gross annual income and monthly debt. Once they add up all these numbers, they'll be able to establish a maximum loan amount. This will help determine properties you can financially afford. Home payments on average, should stay under 40 percent of your monthly income.
Select A Realtor%26%23174;
Find an agent that is experienced, friendly and someone you feel you'll enjoy working with. A Gerken %26 Associates agent can help you evaluate the housing selection, negotiate sales terms, schedule inspections, and monitor your transaction through closing day. Please see our qualifications in the Residential Buyer services section.
Good Reasons Why You Need A Realtor%26%23174;
A real estate transaction is complicated. In most cases, buying or selling a home requires disclosure forms, inspection reports, mortgage documents, insurance policies, deeds, and multi-page government-mandated settlement statements. A knowledgeable guide through this complexity can help you avoid delays or costly mistakes.
Selling or buying a home is time consuming. Even in a strong market, homes in our area stay on the market for an average of 90 days. And it usually takes another 60 days or so for the transaction to close after an offer is accepted.
Real estate has its own language. If you don't know a CMA from a PUD, you can understand why it's important to work with someone who speaks that language.
Realtors have done it before. Most people buy and sell only a few homes in a lifetime, usually with quite a few years in between each purchase. And even if you’ve done it before, laws and regulations change. That’s why having an expert on your side is critical.
Realtors provide objectivity. Since a home often symbolizes family, rest, and security, not just four walls and roof, home selling or buying is often a very emotional undertaking. And for most people, a home is the biggest purchase they'll every make. Having a concerned, but objective, third party helps you keep focused on both the business and emotional issues most important to you.
Understanding Advertisement Acronyms
In order to maximize ad space and spec sheets, real estate agents use shorthand methods to describe their listing properties. Here's the code so you don't need a Cracker Jack decoder ring to figure them out.
dk - Deckll - Lower Levelhi ceils - High Ceilingsassum. fin. - Assumable Financinghoa - Home Owners Associationgar - Garagesiy - Sign In Yardgard - Gardenpoa - Property Owners Associationbsmt - Basementfdr - Formal Dining Roomlkvw – Lake Viewfp - Fireplacegrmet kit - Gourmet Kitchenhwf - Hardwood Floorsofin - Owner Financinglsd pkg - Leased Parkinglo dues - Low Homeowners Association Duesm/l – More Or Lessnr schls - Near Schoolsfa - Forced Airasv - Aluminum, Steel %26 Vinylirr - Irregular Lot Size3B/2B - Three Bedrooms %26 Two Bathroomssf – Square Feetpvt - Privatech/a – Central Heat %26 Airwu - Window Unitupr - Upper Floorvu - Viewdom - Days On Market
Choose Your Home
Once you've chosen a home, your real estate agent will prepare your offer you wish to submit to the seller. Once you and the seller have agreed on price and terms, you'll need to begin your loan process. Contact your lender to get the ball rolling.
Common First-Time Homebuyer Mistakes
They don't ask enough questions of their lender and miss out on the best deal.
They don't act quickly enough to make a decision and someone else buys the house.
They don't find the right agent whose willing to help them through the home-buying process.
They don't do enough to make their offer look good to a seller.
They don't think about resale before they buy. The average first-time buyer only stays in a home for four years.
Secure A Loan
Adjustable rates, discount points, private mortgage insurance, what does it all mean? A Gerken %26 Associates agent can assist with lending questions. There are many available lenders and they offer a multitude of financing options.
When comparing mortgage rates, look at the overall cost, not just the interest rate. Lenders will require income verifications, title search and appraisal of your chosen property.
Closing
No aspect of the home buying process is more complex than the financing. Depending on the circumstances of the seller, as well as the mortgage and closing company, it usually takes three to eight weeks before closing day.
Loan fees can add on thousands of dollars to the cost of a new home, so it's important to know what to expect. A Gerken %26 Associates agent, along with your lender, will assist you with the service and forecasted numbers to ensure a successful closing.Over 90 percent of home buyers use an agent. Why? Because the process of searching for the right home, contract negotiation, financing, and closing can be complex and stressful — especially the first time around!
Things have dramatically changed in the real estate industry over the last ten years. The housing industry is HOT!
Home buyers who haven't made a purchase in a while, will find they benefit from working with an experienced agent.
As one of the biggest purchases of your life, home buying can be very intense. Choosing the right salesperson is the first step. You don't want to be sold a house - you want someone to guide you through the process of buying a home.
At Gerken %26 Associates, you'll have an agent that has your interests at heart. We'll help you determine the location, price range, style and size that best suit your needs.
We preview many of the homes available for sale in the Branson community. You won't find us fumbling for the light switch!
We stay current with the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) and know the Branson Tri-Lakes area in vivid detail. Based upon your criteria, we'll save you time from viewing properties that don't match your needs.
And we don't give up searching until your happy!
Through loan qualification, inspections, final walk-through, and the closing, you can count on us being by your side. We'll explain numerous forms and agreements, all while tracking and recording the entire process.
If you're in the market to buy a home, or even just thinking about it, please call on our licensed agents to serve you.Gerken %26 Associates has been a constant real estate service provider to Branson and the surrounding communities since 1975.
In 1976, Duane and Kay Gerken, the firm's founding brokers, purchased a Century 21 franchise, which they and their team promoted for over 25 years.
From high interest rates, to deregulation and "Black Monday", real estate had its trials and tribulations in the 1980's. However, Gerken %26 Associates prevailed as the leading Branson real estate agency dedicated to serving to the fullest all while giving back to the community.
During this time, both Duane and Kay Gerken, served individual terms as local Realtor board Presidents and the Gerken %26 Associates’ sales team began filling up the office walls with Quality Service and Million Dollar Sales Club Awards.
One decade led into another as Gerken %26 Associates assisted with the substantial transactions of the residential and commercial boom that hit Branson during the roaring 90's. By 1992, the firm had grown in size and doubled its office space.
In 1998, Duane Gerken was elected President of the Missouri Association of Realtors, an organization boasting over 23,000 members. Kay was elected President in 2004, placing them both in history as one of only two Realtor husband and wife couples to achieve such honors from the State Association!
After 27 years of gaining a reputable name in the Tri-Lakes area community, the firm left the Century 21 franchise, and in 2002 returned Independent. Included in this transition, were staff members whom even today, continue to be a part of the Gerken %26 Associates' sales team.
In 2005, both Charlie and Jeff Gerken, brothers and best friends, joined their parents as Brokers and Partners to help lead the firm into the next generation. Having both completed college at Missouri State University and enjoying successful careers in marketing and management respectively, the brothers brought their skills to the firm’s business plans.
In doing so, Gerken %26 Associates remains the oldest continuously-owned real estate firm in Branson, Missouri.
The office has been in the same location for over 32 years! Located on West Highway 76, in the Branson Heights Shopping Center, Gerken %26 Associates expanded their office to four times its original size in 2007.It's unlikely you'll get a dollar-for-dollar return on installing a swimming pool. Have a pool for your own enjoyment, not as an investment.Amenity: A feature of the home or property that serves as a benefit to the buyer but that is not necessary to its use; may be natural (like location, Woods, water) or man-made (like a swimming pool or garden).
Amortization: Repayment of a mortgage loan through monthly installments of principal and interest; the monthly payment amount is based on a schedule that will allow you to own your home at the end of a specific time period (for example, 15 or 30 years).
Annual Percentage Rate (APR): Calculated by using a standard formula, the APR shows the cost of a loan; expressed as a yearly interest rate, it includes the interest, points, mortgage insurance, and other fees associated with the loan.
Application: First step in the official loan approval process; this form is used to record important information about the potential borrower necessary to the underwriting process.
Appraisal: A document that gives an estimate of a property's fair market value; an appraisal is generally required by a lender before loan approval to ensure that the mortgage loan amount is not more than the value of the property.
Appraiser: A qualified individual who uses his or her experience and knowledge to prepare the appraisal estimate.
ARM (Adjustable Rate Mortgage): A mortgage loan subject to changes in interest rates; when rates change, ARM monthly payments increase or decrease at intervals determined by the lender; the Change in monthly -payment amount, however, is usually subject to a Cap.
Assessor: A government official who is responsible for determining the value of a property for the purpose of taxation.
Assumable Mortgage: A mortgage that can be transferred from a seller to a buyer; once the loan is assumed by the buyer the seller is no longer responsible for repaying it; there may be a fee and/or a credit package involved in the transfer of an assumable mortgage.
Balloon Mortgage: A mortgage that typically offers low rates for an initial period of time (usually 5, 7, or 10) years; after that time period elapses, the balance is due or is refinanced by the borrower.
Bankruptcy: A federal law whereby a person's assets are turned over to a trustee and used to pay off outstanding debts; this usually occurs when someone owes more than they have the ability to repay.
Borrower: Person who has been approved to receive a loan and is then obligated to repay it and any additional fees according to the loan terms.
Building Code: Based on agreed upon safety standards within a specific area, a building code is a regulation that determines the design, construction, and materials used in building.
Budget: Detailed record of all income earned and spent during a specific period of time.
Cap: A limit, such as that placed on an adjustable rate mortgage, on how much a monthly payment or interest rate can increase or decrease.
Cash Reserves: A cash amount sometimes required to be held in reserve in addition to the down payment and closing costs; the amount is determined by the lender.
Certificate Of Title: A document provided by a qualified source (such as a title company) that shows the property legally belongs to the current owner; before the title is transferred at closing, it should be clear and free of all liens or other claims.
Closing: Also known as settlement, this is the time at which the property is formally sold and transferred from the seller to the buyer; it is at this time that the borrower takes on the loan obligation, pays all closing costs, and receives title from the seller.
Closing Costs: Customary costs above and beyond the sale price of the property that must be paid to cover the transfer of ownership at closing; these costs generally vary by geographic location and are typically detailed to the borrower after submission of a loan application.
Commission: An amount, usually a percentage of the property sales price, that is collected by a real estate professional as a fee for negotiating the transaction..
Condominium: A form of ownership in which individuals purchase and own a unit of housing in a multi-unit complex; the owner also shares financial responsibility for common areas.
Conventional Loan: A private sector loan, one that is not guaranteed or insured by the U.S. government.
Cooperative (Co-Op): Residents purchase stock in a cooperative corporation that owns a structure; each stockholder is then entitled to live in a specific unit of the structure and is responsible for paying a portion of the loan.
Credit History: History of an individual's debt payment; lenders use this information to gauge a potential borrower's ability to repay a loan.
Credit Report: A record that lists all past and present debts and the timeliness of their repayment; it documents an individual's credit history.
Credit Bureau Score: A number representing the possibility a borrower may default; it is based upon credit history and is used to determine ability to qualify for a mortgage loan.
Debt-To-Income Ratio: A comparison of gross income to housing and non-housing expenses; With the FHA, the-monthly mortgage payment should be no more than 29% of monthly gross income (before taxes) and the mortgage payment combined with non-housing debts should not exceed 41% of income.
Deed: Document that transfers ownership of a property.
Deed-In-Lieu: To avoid foreclosure ("in lieu" of foreclosure), a deed is given to the lender to fulfill the obligation to repay the debt; this process doesn't allow the borrower to remain in the house but helps avoid the costs, time and effort associated with foreclosure.
Default: Inability to pay monthly mortgage payments in a timely manner or to otherwise meet the mortgage terms.
Delinquency: Failure of a borrower to make timely mortgage payments under a loan agreement.
Discount Point: Normally paid at closing and generally calculated to be equivalent to 1% of the total loan amount, discount points are paid to reduce the interest rate on a loan.
Down Payment: Portion of a home's purchase price that is paid in cash and is not part of the mortgage loan.
Earnest Money: Money put down by a potential buyer to show that he or she is serious about purchasing the home; it becomes part of the down payment if the offer is accepted, is returned if the offer is rejected, or is forfeited if the buyer pulls out of the deal.
EEM (Energy Efficient Mortgage): An FHA program that helps homebuyers save money on utility bills by enabling them to finance the cost of adding energy efficiency features to a new or existing home as part of the home purchase
Equity: An owner's financial interest in a property; calculated by subtracting the amount still owed on the mortgage loon(s)from the fair market value of the property.
Escrow Account: A separate account into which the lender puts a portion of each monthly mortgage payment; an escrow account provides the funds needed for such expenses as property taxes, homeowners insurance, mortgage insurance, etc.
Fair Housing Act: A law that prohibits discrimination in all facets of the homebuying process on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, or disability.
Fair Market Value: Hypothetical price a willing buyer and seller agree upon when they are acting freely, carefully and with complete knowledge of the situation.
FNMA (Federal National Mortgage Association); Fannie Mae: A federally-chartered enterprise owned by private stockholders that purchases residential mortgages and converts them into securities for sale to investors; by purchasing mortgages, Fannie Mae supplies funds that lenders may loan to potential homebuyers.
FHA (Federal Housing Administration): Established in 1934 to advance homeownership opportunities for all Americans; assists homebuyers by providing mortgage insurance to lenders to cover most losses that may occur when a borrower defaults; this encourages lenders to make loans to borrowers who might not qualify for conventional mortgages.
Fixed-Rate Mortgage: A mortgage with payments that remain the same throughout the life of the loan because the interest rate and other terms are fixed and do not change.
Flood Insurance: Insurance that protects homeowners against losses from a flood; if a home is located in a flood plain, the lender will require flood insurance before approving a loan.
Foreclosure: A legal process in which mortgaged property is sold to pay the loan of the defaulting borrower.
FHLM (Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation); Freddie Mac: A federally-chartered corporation that purchases residential mortgages, securitizes them, and sells them to investors; this provides lenders with funds for new homebuyers.
GNMA (Government National Mortgage Association); Ginnie Mae: A government-owned corporation overseen by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Ginnie Mae pools FHA-insured and VA-guaranteed loans to back securities for private investment; as With Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, the investment income provides funding that may then be lent to eligible borrowers by lenders.
Good Faith Estimate: An estimate of all closing fees including pre-paid and escrow items as well as lender charges; must be given to the borrower within three days after submission of a loan application.
HELP (Homebuyer Education Learning Program): An educational program from the FHA that counsels people about the homebuying process; HELP covers topics like budgeting, finding a home, getting a loan, and home maintenance; in most cases, completion of the program may entitle the homebuyer to a reduced initial FHA mortgage insurance premium-from 2.25% to 1.75% of the home purchase price.
Home Inspection: Examination of the structure and mechanical systems to determine a home's safety; makes the potential homebuyer aware of any repairs that may be needed.
Home Warranty: Offers protection for mechanical systems and attached appliances against unexpected repairs not covered by homeowner's insurance; coverage extends over a specific time period and does not cover the home's structure.
Homeowner's Insurance: An insurance policy that combines protection against damage to a dwelling and Is contents with protection against claims of negligence)r inappropriate action that result in someone's injury or )property damage.
Housing Counseling Agency: Provides counseling and assistance to individuals on a variety of issues, including loan default, fair housing, and homebuying.
HUD (U.S. Department of Housing %26 Urban Development): Established in 1965, HUD works to create a decent home and suitable living environment for all Americans; it does this by addressing housing needs, improving and developing American communities, and enforcing fair housing laws.
HUD1 Statement: Also known as the "settlement sheet," it itemizes all closing costs; must be given to the borrower at or before closing.
HVAC (Heating, Ventilation %26 Air Conditioning): A home's heating and cooling system.
Index: A measurement used by lenders to determine changes to the Interest rate charged on an adjustable rate mortgage.
Inflation: Number of dollars in circulation exceeds the amount of goods and services available for purchase; inflation results in a decrease in the dollar's value.
Interest: A fee charged for the use of money.
Interest Rate: Amount of interest charged on a monthly loan payment; usually expressed as a percentage.
Insurance: Protection against a specific loss over a period of time that is secured by the payment of a regularly scheduled premium.
Judgment: A legal decision; when requiring debt repayment, a judgment may include a property lien that secures the creditor's claim by providing a collateral source.
Lease Purchase: Assists low-to-moderate income homebuyers in purchasing a home by allowing them to lease a home with an option to buy; the rent payment is made up of the monthly rental payment plus an additional amount that is credited to an account for use as a down payment.
Lien: A legal claim against property that must be satisfied When the property is sold
Loan: Money borrowed that is usually repaid with interest.
Loan Fraud: Purposely giving incorrect information on a loan application in order to better qualify for a loan; may result in civil liability or criminal penalties.
LTV (Loan-To-Value ratio): A percentage calculated by dividing the amount borrowed by the price or appraised value of the home to be purchased; the higher the LTV, the less cash a borrower is required to pay as down payment.
Lock-In: Since interest rates can change frequently, many lenders offer an interest rate lock-in that guarantees a specific interest rate if the loan is closed within a specific time.
Loss Mitigation: A process to avoid foreclosure; the lender tries to help a borrower who has been unable to make loan payments and is in danger of defaulting on his or her loan
Margin: Amount the lender adds to an index to determine the interest rate on an adjustable rate mortgage.
Mortgage: A lien on the property that secures the Promise to repay a loan.
Mortgage Banker: A company that originates loans and resells them to secondary mortgage lenders like: Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac.
Mortgage Broker: A firm that originates and processes loans for a number of lenders.
Mortgage Insurance: A policy that protects lenders against some or most of the losses that can occur when a borrower defaults on a mortgage loan; mortgage insurance is required primarily for borrowers with a down payment of less than 20% of the home's purchase price.
MIP (Mortgage Insurance Premium): A monthly payment -usually part of the mortgage payment - paid by a borrower for mortgage insurance.
Mortgage Modification: A loss mitigation option that allows a borrower to refinance and/or extend the term of the mortgage loan and thus reduce the monthly payments.
Offer: Indication by a potential buyer of a willingness to purchase a home at a specific price; generally put forth in writing.
Origination: Process of preparing, submitting, and evaluating a loan application; generally includes a credit check, verification of employment, and a property appraisal.
Origination Fee: Charge for originating a loan; usually calculated in the form of points and paid at closing.
Partial Claim: A loss mitigation option offered by the FHA that allows a borrower, with help from a lender, to get an interest-free loan from HUD to bring their mortgage payments up to date.
PITI (Principal, Interest, Taxes %26 Insurance): The four elements of a monthly mortgage payment; payments of principal and interest go directly towards repaying the loan while the portion that covers taxes and insurance (homeowner's and mortgage, if applicable) goes into an escrow account to cover the fees when they are due.
PMI (Private Mortgage Insurance): Privately-owned companies that offer standard and special affordable mortgage insurance programs for qualified borrowers with down payments of less than 20% of a purchase price.
Pre-Approve: Lender commits to lend to a potential borrower; commitment remains as long as the borrower still meets the qualification requirements at the time of purchase.
Pre-Foreclosure Sale: Allows a defaulting borrower to sell the mortgaged property to satisfy the loan and avoid foreclosure.
Pre-Qualify: A lender informally determines the maximum amount an individual is eligible to borrow.
Premium: Amount paid on a regular schedule by a policyholder that maintains insurance coverage.
Prepayment: Payment of the mortgage loan before the scheduled due date; may be Subject to a prepayment penalty.
Principal: Amount borrowed from a lender; doesn't include interest or additional fees.
Radon: A radioactive gas found in some homes that, if occurring in strong enough concentrations, can cause health problems.
Real Estate Agent: An individual who is licensed to negotiate and arrange real estate sales; works for a real estate broker.
Realtor%26%23174;: A real estate agent or broker who is a member of the National Association Of Realtors and its local and state associations.
Refinancing: Paying off one loan by obtaining another; refinancing is generally done to secure better loan terms (like a lower interest rate).
Rehabilitation Mortgage: A mortgage that covers the costs of rehabilitating (repairing or Improving) a property; some rehabilitation mortgages - like the FHA's 203(k) - allow a borrower to roll the costs of rehabilitation and home purchase into one mortgage loan.
RESPA (Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act): A law protecting consumers from abuses during the residential real estate purchase and loan process by requiring lenders to disclose all settlement costs, practices, and relationships
Settlement: Another name for closing.
Special Forbearance: A loss mitigation option where the lender arranges a revised repayment plan for the borrower that may include a temporary reduction or suspension of monthly loan payments.
Subordinate: To place in a rank of lesser importance or to make one claim secondary to another.
Survey: A property diagram that indicates legal boundaries, easements, encroachments, rights of way, improvement locations, etc.
Sweat Equity: Using labor to build or improve a property as part of the down payment
Title 1: An FHA-insured loan that allows a borrower to make non-luxury improvements (like renovations or repairs) to their home; Title I loans less than $7,500 don't require a property lien.
Title Insurance: Insurance that protects the lender against any claims that arise from arguments about ownership of the property; also available for homebuyers.
Title Search: A check of public records to be sure that the seller is the recognized owner of the real estate and that there are no unsettled liens or other claims against the property.
Truth-In-Lending: A federal law obligating a lender to give full written disclosure of all fees, terms, and conditions associated with the loan initial period and then adjusts to another rate that lasts for the term of the loan.
Underwriting: The process of analyzing a loan application to determine the amount of risk involved in making the loan; it includes a review of the potential borrower's credit history and a judgment of the property value.
VA (Department of Veterans Affairs): A federal agency which guarantees loans made to veterans; similar to mortgage insurance, a loan guarantee protects lenders against loss that may result from a borrower default.Thank you for your interest in Gerken %26 Associates! We will be in touch with you soon.September 21, 2009
Following an international poll, the 1880's theme park, Silver Dollar City in Branson, has been named the "Friendliest Park" in the entire theme park industry. The Golden Ticket Awards were held last night at LegoLand in Carlsbad, California, hosted by Amusement Today newspaper. Considered a prestigious annual show by industry insiders and theme park aficionados, Amusement Today oversees the process which seeks to define "Best of the Best" in the amusement industry.
August 20, 2009
Nearly one thousand yellow rubber ducks will race down the Taneycomo lakefront at Branson Landing in the first ever Junior Auxiliary of Taney County Rubber Ducky Drift on Saturday. The event starts at 2 p.m. and the race is a benefit for the children of Taney County. The rubber ducks will be released by two Ducks from Ride the Ducks and several "lucky ducks" will win great prizes when their adopted ducks cross the finish line. Grand prize is two round-trip airline tickets from the new Branson airport.
July 18, 2009
Celebration of the nation's Independence Day was an explosive event on Table Rock Lake. The lake exploded on the 4th of July with Fireburst '09. The 30-minute fireworks show was jam packed with bright sparkles and booms which echoed down the lake. There was also live entertainment, games, concessions and activities for the entire family. This event is designated as one of the largest firework extravaganza in Southwest Missouri.
May 25, 2009
The opening of Branson's "Moonshine Beach" on Table Rock Lake, a day-use park on the north end of Table Rock Dam near the Chateau on the Lake, has been postponed until June 5 because of weather-related construction delays. Nevertheless, reservations are already being accepted for the group shelter for dates from June 5 to Oct. 31. The shelter, which accommodates groups of up to 75 people, is directly above the swim beach and offers 12 picnic tables, two large grills, a rock fireplace, and counter space with electrical outlets.
April 17, 2009
The Travel Channel’s "Extreme" show will soon present "Extreme Bathrooms", which will feature eight of the most extreme public bathrooms in the world, one of which will be the bathroom facilities at Branson's Shoji Tabuchi Theatre. The theatre's bathrooms, a favorite of locals and tourists alike ever since the theatre was built in 1990, are elegant and unique, including a full sized pool table in the men's restroom.
March 25, 2009
Branson aldermen are considering developing a nature center near Missouri 76 on Fall Creek Road. The proposed nature center facility would be located on four acres just north of the Lakeside Forest Wilderness Area. The city purchased the land several years ago for intersection improvements at 76 and Fall Creek. The property formerly contained an RV park.
March 10, 2009
Sun Country Airlines announced exclusive non-stop service from the Twin Cities to Branson beginning May 11. The airline will fly to Branson on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays and will feature a $79 one-way introductory fare. Sun Country offers the only non-stop service to Branson out of the Twin Cities. Branson becomes the 27th destination served by Sun Country from its hub in Minneapolis.
February 13, 2009
The Great American Pie Show Contest and Taste of Home Cooking School are scheduled at the Branson Convention Center for April 24 and will feature celebrity judge Al Roker. The cooking schools will take place from 3 to 5 p.m. Friday, April 24, and 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, April 25. On Saturday, the doors open at 11 a.m. and the first 100 ticket holders also will participate in the Great American Pie Show at 1 p.m. Roker will conduct a book signing and question-and-answer session from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday. General admission is $5 for the Great American Pie Show and marketplace.
January 9, 2009
The city of Branson’s planning and development department issued permits for $102 million in new construction in 2008. That’s the fourth consecutive year construction in Branson has surpassed $100 million. New construction in 2008 included three new apartment developments, Hampton in on Branson Hills Parkway, Shrine of the Holy Spirit attraction on Expressway Lane, new stores in Branson Hills, Castle Rock Water Park on Green Mountain Drive and Pointe Royal Golf Course reconstruction.
December 20, 2008
AirTran announced it will begin service to Branson effective May 11, 2009. The service will be a single roundtrip nonstop flight between the new Branson Airport and the world’s busiest airport Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. AirTran is the first low-cost carrier to announce its partnership with the Branson Airport, scheduled to open May 2009. The airport hopes to have another three carriers committed to servicing the area before opening.
November 18, 2008
The final phase of the Fall Creek Extension project is well on its way. The completion of the final phase includes providing a new north/south arterial road between Highway 76 and Roark Valley Road. The project will also include the realignment and straightening of the segment of Fall Creek Road immediately to the south of Highway 76. According to studies done in connection with the Branson’s 2001 Comprehensive Transportation Plan, when the project is completed the road will have over 9,300 cars per day traveling it.
October 15, 2008
Branson school educators are considering expansion at the high school and elementary buildings. Currently, 4,206 students are enrolled in the school district. A decade ago, 2,800 students were enrolled. Four dates are set for discussion between the public and school board members regarding district expansion. Volunteers are needed and the public is welcome. School officials said that enrollment of Hispanic students has increased more than any other ethnic group.
September 20, 2008
The 10th annual Grape and Fall Festival will be held in downtown Hollister on Saturday, September 27th. The festival is free, open to the public and consists of great food, crafts, children’s activities, live music, entertainment and a wine tasting garden. Gerken %26 Associates will have a vendor booth at the event, so please be sure to stop by and sell hello!
August 7, 2008
The 11th annual Super Summer Cruise is being held this weekend in Branson. The three-day event is expected to draw thousands of spectators to view hundreds of cars on display at the Shepherd of the Hills homestead. The event includes awards, music, vendors, celebrity guests, and fireworks. The Super Cruise rolls out at midnight Saturday, along Missouri 76 and Shepherd of the Hills Expressway and is free for spectators.
August 5, 2008
Voter results are in. Major race results included Jim Strafuss, who defeated incumbent Western Taney County Commissioner Ron Herschend, a seat he has held for the last eight years. In the race for Eastern District Commissioner, Danny Strahan beat out Roy Combs and incumbent Dennis Wood was re-elected against Jeff Justus for the Missouri House of Representatives 62 District seat. Government officials estimated a thirty-five percent voter turnout for the races.
July 21, 2008
Missouri regulators approved a $22 million dollar rate increase for Empire District Electric utility. That’s roughly $6.13 a month for an average customer using 1,000 kilowatt hours. The new rates will allow recovery of money used to build the Riverton Power Plant and the 2007 ice storms destruction. The new rates will go into effect September 1st and will affect over 147,000 customers in 16 counties.
July 9, 2008
A work force housing summit will be held at Presley's Country Jubilee Theater in Branson on July 29th at 9 a.m. to noon. Cy Murray, president of the Taney County Industrial Development Authority expressed mounting concerns regarding the national economy, higher gas prices and a downturn in Branson tourism. The summit is being held to determine what steps must be taken to address the need for affordable housing for the work force in Taney County.
June 23, 2008
StoneBridge Village will soon expand another 2,500 acres! The six-phase land plan for the new areas projected for further development include an additional nine-hole golf course, added to the current 18-hole course, several lakes and areas of conservation. The plans have been submitted to Taney County and will be submitted to the Stone County planning and zoning board in July for approval. If you are interested in further information on property available in Stonebridge, please let us know as we have many available properties for sale.
June 2, 2008
Lieutenant Governor Peter Kinder is coming to Branson to unveil this year's "Host City" sign for the Tour of Missouri. Each sign will be seen at the entrance of host cities. This year's Tour of Missouri will run from September 8th through the 14th, with stops in Springfield and Branson, as well as an additional ten other cities. The Missouri bicycle came to fruition last year, which brought over $26 million tourism dollars to the state. More than 350,000 people saw the Tour of Missouri at some point along the route, with even more expected to watch this year.
May 23, 2008
Presidential candidate Ron Paul spoke to supporters and delegates to the Missouri Republican State Convention held at the Chateau on the Lake in Branson. Paul spoke on a variety of topics including foreign policy, the war in Iraq and income taxes. More than 2,000 Republicans attended the convention as State presidential convention delegates were assigned and national committee members elected.
May 20, 2008
After months of searching, Branson aldermen chose Dean Kruithof as Branson’s new City Administrator. Branson City administration hopes Kruithof will be in place as new City Administrator within a month. Kruithof is currently the Deputy City Manager in Fort Smith, Arkansas and was in Branson last week to meet with city staff, attend meetings, and was introduced to citizens at a public reception.
May 6, 2008
Branson area residents have been invited to audition for David Letterman's Stupid Pet Tricks and Stupid Human Tricks segment featured on his late night television show. Auditions will be held at the Branson Landing this weekend in which winners will receive a free trip to New York City to appear on the Letterman show and perform their trick on stage in front of millions of TV viewers.
April 23, 2008
Branson has a new attraction this spring – major flooding. With the spillways opened on the Table Rock Dam and the flooding damage along Taneycomo Lake, spectators are visiting by the droves to the area to see just how much the landscape has been changed by all the water. So much so, that the scenic overlook near the dam has been packed with visitors eager to see the lake at its highest level ever – surpassing a record set back in 1961.
April 12, 2008
The Army Corps of Engineers released a record amount of water from Table Rock Lake over the last couple of days to cope with the influx of heavy rain that Branson has recieved. Water flowing into Lake Taneycomo has peaked past flood level and flooded many homes and local businesses. Table Rock Lake is expected to crest at an all-time high of 933 feet above sea level as the Corps continues to release water at 34,000 cubic feet per second through Table Rock Dam.
April 5, 2008
Branson city officials are expecting new construction in Branson to again surpass $100 million for the fourth year in a row! Branson construction projects totaled almost $40 million for the first quarter of 2008, compared to $22 million in the first quarter of 2007. Multi-million dollar commercial projects permitted last month included Bed, Bath and Beyond at Branson Hills Parkway and the Roaring Falls Ride at Celebration City.
March 23, 2008
Branson is in its final stages in search of a new city administrator. Mayor Raeanne Presley stated she hoped to have the hiring process completed and a new city administrator employed with the city by May. The position requires experience in public administration, local government management, financial and leadership knowledge, and the ability to work with department heads, employees, the community and a variety of stake holders. The final day for submitting resumes for the city position was March 17th.
March 10, 2008
Skaggs Community Health Center recently opened the doors to its new 12,000 square foot Cancer Center. Since its initial inception, the facility has taken almost 10 years and approximately $5.5 million to complete. Skaggs built the Cancer Center with intentions to help locals who cannot afford the costs, time and energy to travel to Springfield for treatment. Several large donations came from the community, including a $500,000 donation from Sherry Herschend in honor of Dr. Peter Marcellus.
February 26, 2008
Great Southern Bank will soon open its third Branson branch, which will also include a full-service office for Great Southern Travel. The new 2,500 square foot building located at 1510 State Highway 248 will feature four drive-through lanes, an automated teller machine, a full-service lobby with safe deposit boxes and employ six associates. This will be Springfield-based Great Southern's 39th retail banking center in Missouri.
February 13, 2008
There will soon be another destination for Branson shopping. Aside from the new Target, TJ Maxx, Home Depot and Kohl’s opening in Branson Hills, Best Buy, Bed Bath & Beyond, MC Sports, Petco, Michaels, Wendy’s, Books A Million and a new Wal-Mart Supercenter will soon be opening in the same area. The $300 million, 1,200-acre Branson Hills development is also constructing over 800 homes in the adjacent area ranging in price from $150,000 to $2 million. In addition to these new shopping and housing developments, there is also an 18-hole golf course being designed as a tribute to Payne Stewart.
February 5, 2008
Bookings for the Branson Convention Center have exceeded 2008 projections with over 200 events scheduled so far. According to a 2003 feasibility analysis done before the convention center was built, it would take 177 events to keep the convention center viable. Many of the events booked thus far have been multiyear, which means those planning to attend this year have made plans to come back the following year. Of the business booked thus far, over 60 percent of that is new groups who haven’t held events before in Branson. That’s great news for local businesses who hoped the publicity and advertising created by the Branson Convention Center would bring additional visitors and new demographics into town. Sounds like it’s working.
January 30, 2008
Branson music entertainer, Andy Williams has been named the recipient of the 17th Annual ELLA Award by the Society of Singers. Named after its first recipient, Ella Fitzgerald, the ELLA Award is given to singers whose significant musical accomplishments are equaled by their dedication to charitable and humanitarian causes both local and international. Almost 70 years after he began performing as a young boy, Andy is still singing regularly at his own Moon River Theatre in Branson.
January 22, 2008
The improved intersection at Fall Creek Road and Highway 76 will soon be completed. The $1.2 million dollar project, which has taken five months thus far to complete, has included signalizing the intersection, adding a left turn lane on Fall Creek Road, widening 76, and adding right and left turn lanes on it as well. City officials reported the project will be completed under budget and on time. The completion of the intersection marks the end of phase two of a three-phase project which hopes to extend Fall Creek Road to Roark Valley Road. The final phase will complete the extension of the two roads in which the city hopes to begin construction this summer.
January 14, 2008
Where there is a will; there is a way. Funds for a new Lake Taneycomo bridge are getting closer to being fully collected. The four major stakeholders, Branson, Hollister, Taney County and the Missouri Department of Transportation have raised significant funds over the last six months. MoDOT has pleged $4.3 million plus a possible $7.35 million in cost-share funds. Taney County will give an additional $5.1 million and Hollister is pledging $709,000, leaving roughly only $1.55 million to be collected. City officials believe the remaining funds can be accomplished.
January 2, 2008
Many state employees are celebrating not only the New Year, but a new raise. Starting this month, minimum wage in Missouri went from $6.50 to $6.65 an hour, a 15-cent raise from Proposition B in which Missouri voters approved in November 2006. The law established Missouri's minimum wage at $6.50 an hour or at the federal rate, whichever is higher. The Missouri Department of Labor and Industrial Relations said the wage increase was determined by utilizing recent information published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
December 17, 2007
The majority of Branson shows used to operate between Memorial Day and Labor Day and then close January through March. Not anymore! Now more shows are staying open during the season which has become known as Hot Winter Fun. The Jim Stafford Theatre, Grand Country Music Hall and the Dutton Theatre are some of the several theatres remaining open during the winter months. Most of the shows open for Hot Winter Fun will be showcased in one big show at the Jim Stafford Theatre on February 11th. Don't miss it!
December 5, 2007
Mayor Raeanne Presley cast the tie-breaking vote in favor of going with the B-10 option after Branson aldermen were split on which Lake Taneycomo bridge option to go with. The B-10 plan calls for a roundabout to be placed on the Hollister side of the bridge and a second bridge to be built while the existing Lake Taneycomo Bridge is repaired. Alderman Jack Purvis made the motion to go with the B-10 option and Aldermen Dick Gass and Stan Barker also voted in favor. Council members Sandra Williams, Stephen Marshall and Bob McDowell were against it.
November 22, 2007
Local retailers are expecting to have another record-setting sales season this Ozark Mountain Christmas. Friday and Saturday after Thanksgiving are considered to be the biggest shopping days of the year in Branson. In fact, many of the new retailers in town, including Belk, Target and Kohl's will be opened by sunrise. And to help with the increase in traffic, there will be 28 police officers working ten-hour shifts to relieve traffic congestion on Friday and Saturday. Positive tax figures for the year are looking great as well. The city of Branson's sales tax is up nearly 10 percent, totaling just under $6.5 million and the city's tourism tax is up more than 7.7 percent for a total of more than $7.2 million.
November 16, 2007
The wait is almost over! Officials from the Missouri Department of Transportation announced they'll soon be opening the southbound lanes of U.S. 65 from Hollister to the Arkansas line! However northbound lanes will be closed to one, as highway crews lay new asphalt surface. In addition, the Missouri 265 crossover will be closed in order for the new permanent approach to be adjoined along with new signal lights. Four access points after the Hollister Interchange will be limited to exits at Branson Creek, Missouri 265, Missouri 86 and Rochester Road. The stretch of highway from Hollister to the Arkansas has been under construction since the fall of 2006.
November 10, 2007
Say goodbye to the potholes! The 76 bridge over Lake Taneycomo between Branson and Hollister will be closed November 12 and 13, for repair and resurfacing. The Missouri Department of Transportation said the bridge closing is needed to complete the project safely, quickly and with the best results possible. Construction crews will prepare the deck for repaving by smoothing the pavement at the joints, pouring concrete patches and cleaning away debris. They will then lay a 1-inch layer of asphalt for a new and much-needed driving surface on the bridge. Total cost of the work is approximately $29,000.
November 7, 2007
Regional election results are in! Branson voters defeated Proposition A, the one-half cent sales tax slated for the Lake Taneycomo Bridge and economic development. Voters in Hollister passed a five percent transient tourism tax. Sparta voters dismissed a sales fire protection tax and voters in Douglas County approved their water and sewer tax.
November 1, 2007
Funds are still available for homeowners with septic tanks. More than 220 homeowners have participated in the successful Table Rock Lake Water Quality program which qualifies $50 back after having their septic system pumped out. Maintaining a septic system cost an average of $100 once every three to five years. The septic tank pump out program has 170 rebates still left for homeowners in the Table Rock Lake or James River area. The program is a cooperative effort of the Missouri Department of Conservation, James River Basin Partnership, Bass Pro Shops, Table Rock Lake Water Quality, Inc., and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation.
October 24, 2007
The city of Hollister (Branson's next door neighbor) announced plans for an indoor water park, public arena, hotel, restaurants and retail stores on 112 acres of land just east of Highway 65. Local developer Justin Gage is behind the creation of one of the world's largest indoor water parks which will be built across and connected via skywalk to the publicly funded arena. The $26 million dollar arena will be financed through property and sales tax.
October 15, 2007
The Taneycomo Bridge will close for six hours overnight for the next three nights between the hours of 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. Emergency vehicles will be allowed to cross the bridge during the closing each night, but drivers will have to find an alternate route each of the three nights. MoDOT crews will take samples from the bidge deck, columns and arches as part of a study underway to determine the best option for rehabilitating the historic structure.
October 12, 2007
Beginning November 1st, the 2007 Branson Area Festival of Lights drive-through will be located at Shepherd of the Hills Expressway and Expressway Lane, close to the new Sight %26 Sound Theatre. The magical 1-mile drive features over 120 displays and promises to be memorable. In addition, lighting displays will be held at Silver Dollar City's Old Time Christmas celebration, the Enchanted Forest on Indian Point Road and the Trail of Lights at Shepherd of the Hills. From fabulous Christmas shows and dazzling lights to spectacular shopping and breathtaking scenic beauty, Branson is a great place to visit during this festive time of year.
October 8, 2007
Last night, six-time Grammy and ten-time American Music Award winner, Randy Travis performed a Christmas show taping at The Mansion Theater in Branson. The concert, sponsored by Feed The Children, was free and open to the public and was filmed for an up-coming Feed The Children Christmas television special due to air later this year. Travis sang songs from his new Christmas album, "Songs of the Season" to a packed house.
September 26, 2007
Branson will soon have three wineries! Construction of a new winery in the Branson area is set to begin in November, while another is slated to open early next year. Branson already is home to Stone Hill Winery, which draws over 450,000 visitors a year. Now under construction, the $2 million Mount Pleasant Winery is set to open in February and the $8 million Branson Ridge Winery is scheduled to open early 2009. Branson Ridge Winery sits on 18 acres just north of Branson on U.S. Highway 465. The 35,000-square-foot complex includes a 1890s-era stone barn and banquet hall, a 1918-era Americana barn and bistro, a 1930s-era specialty foods market, and a modern glass and steel-covered foyer for special events.
September 13, 2007
Over 30,000 spectators were in Branson today to watch the individual time trials of the Tour of Missouri. Today's grueling 18-mile cycling course began at the Branson Landing and ended at the Shepherd of the Hills Homestead. U.S. Pro Champion Levi Leipheimer came in first place with a time of 39:37. Australian Nathan O'Neill came in second by just 16 seconds and three-time Swedish time trial champion, Matti Helimen finished third, a minute and a half behind the leader. Afterwards, several of the 112 world-class cyclists commented on the challenging course our scenic Ozark hills provided.
September 10, 2007
Branson's fiscal year ends later this month and the city is slated to have generated over a billion dollars in gross sales! That's up more than $124 million in comparison to last year. Tourism tax revenues increased by 9%25 with sales and transportation taxes up 15%25 over the same time last year. Tourism taxes collected through July total $9.6 million compared to $8.8 million last year. Sales taxes collected total over $12.6 million in comparison to $10.9 million in 2006. The city of Branon's fiscal year runs from October to September.
September 7, 2007
The new downtown Branson Hilton Convention Center opened today as Branson officials held a ribbon cutting for the event. Branson Mayor Raeanne Presley thanked city staff, current and past board of aldermen and others who made the Convention Center a reality. The building offers 220,000 square feet of flexible meeting space, including two exhibit halls totaling 50,000 square feet, which connects to a 23,000 square foot ballroom. The convention center offers a wide range of services, including complete onsite catering, audio visual services, Internet, event management, and connects directly to the Hilton Branson Convention Hotel, a 12-story luxury hotel with 290 rooms and suites.
August 31, 2007
Say goodbye to summer! Branson City Officials are expecting large crowds to roll into the Tri-Lakes Area this weekend for what many consider to be the last weekend of summer. In fact, the Table Rock Lake Corps of Engineers reported that all 13 Corps' campgrounds are booked solid. They also expect to see many boaters as well as full crowds on Table Rock Lake’s popular beaches. Live telecasts and several concerts will held downtown at The Branson Landing as they hold their Labor Day weekend tradition of raising money for Jerry Lewis' annual Muscular Dystrophy Association telethon.
August 19, 2007
Secretary of State Robin Carnahan announced election results from "Choose Your Favorite Missouri Music" which her office sponsored at the State Fair. Over 3,000 voters participated in the election which was twice the voter turnout over last year. Fairgoers overwhelming selected Branson Country music, which received 56%25 of the vote in a four-way race. The official election results are: Branson Country 1,692, Ozark Bluegrass 553, Kansas City Jazz 396 and St. Louis Blues 359.
August 7, 2007
A search committee is being formed to begin the selection process for a new Branson City Administrator. Assistant City Administrator and California native, Frank Schoneboom will serve as Interim Branson City Administrator until the replacement position for Terry Dody is filled. In addition to assisting the City Administrator in the oversight of all the Departments of the City, the Assistant City Administrator serves as the Administrative Services Director of the City of Branson, which oversees the activities of the Health Department, City Clerk/Municipal Court, Parks %26 Recreations Department, CIS Department and the Communications Department. Frank Schoneboom has served as Branson's Assistant City Administrator since June 2004.
August 1, 2007
Gage's Branson Landing Marina %26 Shoppes will soon have boat cruises on Lake Taneycomo once again. The new Lake Queen, named after the original Lake Queen, which was a major attraction for over 30 years, is almost complete. The original Lake Queen will be an exhibit at the marina, paying tribute to the original sight-seeing tours. A second boat, Branson's Landing Princess will also provide cruises. The marina, once completed in spring 2008, will feature retail shops such as Shorty Smalls restaurant, Ben and Jerry's ice cream parlor and many others. A 300-seat banquet room, 18 boat slips and pontoon rentals will also be available.
July 27, 2007
Congratulations to the Presley family! The Presleys' Country Jubilee Theater was recently honored at their 40th Season Celebration Show in a surprise ceremony which included a proclamation signed by Governor Matt Blunt. Also during the ceremony, recognition was given from the State of Missouri, The City of Branson, Taney County, and the Branson Lakes/Area Chamber of Commerce %26 CVB. We wish the Presley family continued prosperity and success.
July 18, 2007
Up until now, Branson has seen over $65 million in construction for 2007 and officials estimate a total of $100 million for the year. Construction progress continues to move steadily along Branson Hills Parkway, where the new Wal-Mart Supercenter will open next spring and Kohl's this fall. Crews are also diligently working to realign Forsythe Boulevard off Highway 76 in hopes to reduce the steep grade and make room for additional retail development. And just across the bridge, in Hollister, the city has recorded over $7 million in construction for the year, much of that going towards residential development.
July 12, 2007
The new Branson Chamber Board of Director election results are in. For the Accommodations Category: Mark Hartman of the Hilton Promenade-Branson and Rachel Wood, Outback Roadhouse Motel. For the Attractions Category: John Joslyn of the Titanic-Branson and Dustin Rogers, Roy Rogers-Dale Evans Museum. And for the General Business Category: Troy Hill, BKD and our own Charlie Gerken of Gerken %26 Associates Realtors.
July 1, 2007
It's fireworks season in the Ozarks. "Fireburst", the annual fireworks display has been extended two more days. Along with it, the city of Hollister will host their 54th year and Blue Eye will have their own version of "Firefall". The Rockaway Beach Chamber of Commerce will host their annual celebration along with Shell Knob's Chamber of Commerce 32nd annual Fire %26 Thunder display. Chateau on the Lake will have a grand fireworks show and Big Cedar Lodge will also continue holiday traditions of setting off fireworks over Table Rock Lake. The excitement is in the air!
June 22, 2007
"Bodies: The Exhibition" is now appearing in Branson. The exhibition features real human bodies and organs preserved by a special process. With educational relevance for all ages, this exhibition of human specimens immerses visitors in the complexities of the human body, telling the amazing story of humanity with reverence and understanding. The anatomical exhibit is located at 9 Treasure Lake Drive, next to the IMAX Entertainment Complex on Shepherd of the Hills Expressway. "Bodies: The Exhibition" is open from 9 to 9 Sunday through Thursday and until 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday nights. The exhibit is scheduled to run through January 6th of 2008.
June 18, 2007
After five years of planning and fundraising, construction will soon begin later this month on the new Branson Airport. The airport, located eight miles south of Branson, will be the first privately developed and operated commercial airport in the United States. As of now, over $113 million in revenue bonds have been secured to help finance the airport. Branson City Officials view the airport as an economic generator, bringing new visitors, jobs, investments and capital to the Branson area. The airport is scheduled for completion spring of 2009.
June 5, 2007
Branson is hosting a Vintage Car Rally next week with 44 drivers of pre-World War II era cars navigating their way through 1,100 miles of back roads through Southwest Missouri and Northwest Arkansas. Branson will act as a hub for the event with racing from and back to the city each day. The Vintage Car Rally Association's goal with the event is to raise $20,000 for Autism Awareness. City officials estimate the rally will have a $600,000 economic impact for the Branson area.
May 26, 2007
Coin by coin, visitors to Branson Landing amassed a significant donation to the Taney County women's shelter. The women's shelter in Forsyth received $1,600 that was made of change thrown into the Branson Landing Town Square Fountain since June 2006. Ten volunteers worked four hours to clean out the 40-foot fountain. The Landing's maintenance crew got a couple of portable cement mixers and put the coins in them with some sand and ran them until the sand knocked all of the grime off the coins. The money from the fountain will go towards helping children who stay at the shelter.
May 20, 2007
There are still plenty of jobs in the Tri-Lakes Area according to local officials. Even the state unemployment rate dropped for the second month in a row. According to the Ozark Region Missouri Career Center, local Tri-Lakes area employers in the service and tourism industries are looking to fill at least 400-500 more jobs. Recently, the total Missouri employment rate topped 2.8 million jobs, the second highest record amount since 1990!
May 11, 2007
The city of Branson may soon change its colored route system. According to some visitors, it's too confusing. The route system was established in the early 1990's for visitors to get around town without having to drive solely on Highway 76 to get to Branson's various attractions. The Red Route includes Missouri 248 and Shepherd of the Hills Expressway. The Blue Route is Roark Valley Road and the Yellow Route is made up of Green Mountain Drive and a portion of Fall Creek Road. City officials presented new recommendations to MoDOT to help make the routes more understandable and are awaiting to hear back what will be allowed.
May 5, 2007
Local road crews have been working diligently to add additional turn lanes while widening 76 from Roark Valley Road to 6th Street. The intended outcome is to ease the bottleneck when upon entering and exiting Highway 65 onto the 76 strip. The recent road additions have caused major delays and increased traffic congestion for the last several months. Fortunately, the job is almost finished, with final paving to begin in the next couple of days.
April 26, 2007
Plans have been announced for a new signaled intersection between Fall Creek Road and Highway 76. The intersection will be built between the unoccupied Ozark Mountain Inn and Silver Fountain Motel, with the extension of Fall Creek connecting to Epps Road. Work has already begun on Fall Creek and construction is scheduled to be completed within 6 months. The American Bandstand is expanding its operation, which will utilize the intersection by adding another restaurant and enlarging its parking lot.
April 23, 2007
The Branson School Board approved the district's increases in teacher salary for next school year. The new pay schedule goes into effect at the beginning of the 2007-2008 school year. The increase was made possible through the district's operating levy, which was approved by Branson voters this month. The salary schedule allows teachers to gain raises each year they work as well as additional education they continue to receive.
April 15, 2007
Although the new $50 million Sight and Sound Theatre is still under construction, "Noah — the Musical," the first production to be performed at the venue, made its local debut at the Welk Resort Theatre during BransonFest. The musical retells the Biblical story of Noah's arc. When the Sight and Sound Theatre is completed in June 2008, "Noah — the Musical," will be performed on a 300-foot-long, 40-foot-tall wrap-around stage that will surround the entire audience. The show will also include a cast of 50 actors and over 70 live animals.
April 8, 2007
The first three levels of the new downtown parking garage for the Branson Convention Center opened this week to the public, making room for over 300 available parking spaces. Once completed, the parking structure will be able to accompany 500 vehicles. The new parking structure is accessible from Pacific Street in downtown Branson. The convention center is slated to open in late August.
April 3, 2007
Branson has a new mayor. Voters elected Raeanne Presley as its mayor over 12 year incumbent mayor Lou Schaefer by a huge margin, about 83% to 17%. In the only aldermanic election involving an incumbent, retired Branson City Clerk, Sandra Williams, won over 12 year incumbent Ron Huff as a Ward II Alderman by a margin of about 73% to 27%. Bob McDowell won a contested election against a non incumbent, who had previously been an alderman, for a Ward I seat and Stephen Marshall ran unopposed for a Ward III seat. Mayor Presley and aldermen, Marshall, McDowell, and Williams will take their oath and assume duties at the April 9 meeting of the Branson Board of Aldermen.
March 29, 2007
The CBS daytime soap opera “As the World Turns” is still set to shoot in Branson. This month, the Branson Chamber of Commerce will give a tour to CBS executives so they are familiar with Branson and what the area has to offer. In addition, the Chamber and Taney County Enhancement District are donating $36,223 to help the production cast with airfare and housing services. The reasoning behind the donation is for all the Branson publicity the show is expected to generate.
March 21, 2007
During the peak season, the commute on West 76 to Silver Dollar City can be up two hours long. Well that may soon change! Silver Dollar City, owned by The Herschend Family Entertainment Corporation, has proposed a $5 million Indian Point Road development project. The proposal includes three lanes in-bound; two lanes for Silver Dollar City and one lane dedicated to motorists going into Indian Point, which includes businesses, resorts and residences. Also proposed is the widening of Indian Point Road, from Missouri 76 to the Silver Dollar City entrance. Financing for the project will be a sales-tax-only TIF and will not claim property taxes. The Stone County Commission is set to examine key issues of the project and will hold a public hearing before the TIF is approved.
March 14, 2007
Branson Public Schools Superintendent Doug Hayter recently spoke at the Branson Tri-Lakes Board of Realtor's general membership meeting. Doug gave a presentation about the school's proposed 45-cent tax levy increase which will appear on the April 3rd ballot. City and school officials say the tax levy increase would cover the rising operational costs associated with steady enrollment increases, which includes the hiring of additional teachers and administration. The current tax levy is $3.45 per $100 of assessed valuation. In 2005, Branson voters approved a bond issue that didn't raise the tax levy, but did help fund a $22.8 million expansion in school facilities. Doug reminded the Tri-Lakes Board of Realtors that the school district hasn't asked for any additional operating increases since 1992.
March 10, 2007
Branson officials reported that the NAIA D-II Men's Basketball National Tournament has once again helped boost Branson's local economy. The tournament acts as a catalyst for the beginning of Branson's tourism season. Significant increases in Branson sales tax revenue are boosted by the tournament each year. In March of 2001 more than $195,000 was collected from the city's sales tax, it then jumped up 20 percent, to $234,000 in March 2002. March of 2003, 2004 and 2005 continued the same increase with numbers of $257,000, $276,000 and $304,000. The successful NAIA event has been hosted for seven consecutive years at the College of the Ozarks, since starting in 2000.
March 4, 2007
An economic forum featuring area realtors and bank officers was held at the College of the Ozarks. Key topics included the new planned Branson Regional Airport, which is scheduled to begin construction late this year. The airport will feature a 7,000 ft. runway with regularly scheduled flights. Other hot topics included the new $50 million dollar Sight %26 Sound Theater scheduled to open next summer and the new Branson Commerce Park. In housing news, the highest percentages of homes selling are those under $175,000 with the biggest demand for those in the Branson School District.
March 1, 2007
A new mega arena is coming to Branson. Construction plans are currently underway for a custom-built arena to house the "Great American Wild West Show." The Wild West Arena will be built on Gretna Road, across from the Branson Mill Craft Mall. The ninety-minute extravaganza will feature award-winning native American dancers, 100 Precision Horsemen, Dare Devil Trick Riders, and tributes paid to heroes of the old west and cowboys of the movies. The Great American Wild West Show is scheduled to open in the spring of 2008.
February 29, 2007
The Branson Fire Department won a grant, awarded by the Department of Homeland Security for a $206,000 mobile training tower. The four-story training tower is collapsible and can be transported by semi-tractor to a variety of training sites. The training tower will be used for training local area fire fighters in the use of rappelling, ladder work, aerial operations, and search and rescue training. The tower is scheduled for delivery to the Branson Fire Department this summer.
February 28, 2007
College of the Ozarks, for the eighth consecutive year, will host the NAIA D-II National Basketball Tournament, which starts next week. The highly-watched basketball tournament will consist of 31 games held March 7-13. One of the great new features added this year, is the ability for internet users to watch the games online. In addition to those watching the games on the Internet, officials are expecting sold-out crowds for the week-long event. Fortunately for us at Gerken %26 Associates, we've already purchased tickets for our agents and clients! The tournament provides great exposure to Branson in many ways. Not only does the tournament encourage community involvement and participation, but it serves as the official kick-off to Branson's tourist season. In addition to supporting the school through special events, Gerken %26 Associates Realtors is a member of the College of the Ozarks Associates, an organization of individuals and businesses committed to the furtherance of the best interests of the College in its efforts to provide a higher education for deserving young men and women.
February 27, 2007
Skaggs Community Health Center is expanding their services to include a cancer treatment center. Skaggs Cancer Center is expanding upon many of its cancer services already available, such as ambulatory infusions, chemotherapy, outpatient cancer therapy, and medical and surgical oncology. The new $5.5 million cancer center will be 12,000-square-feet and include 10 ambulatory infusion stations, four exam rooms, a laboratory blood drawing area, waiting room, two nurses' stations, physician and staff offices, a CT scan area, and a linear accelerator vault. The building is scheduled to be completed by Fall 2007.
February 25, 2007
On June 11th, vintage cars built before 1948 will drive through Branson for the Branson Vintage Rally, a five-day race that will take classic vehicles throughout the back roads of southwest Missouri and at the same time raise money for Autism Awareness. Competing in this event, are 75 teams navigating pre-1948 automobiles that are specially equipped for the demands required in a vintage car rally. The teams are made up of a driver and navigator plus support crews that will travel over 200 miles a day. The race will start and finish each of the five days at the Hilton Promenade Hotel at Branson Landing. Teams will race for over $60,000 in prize money and all proceeds from the rally will go towards the research and treatment of Autism in children.
February 24, 2007
First MTV, now CBS! The CBS Daytime Drama, "As The World Turns", the Emmy award-winning television show, will tape on location in Branson June 6th, 7th and 8th. The episodes will air in July. In the story, Gwen and Will Munson (Emmy award-winner Jennifer Landon and Jesse Lee Soffer) and their friend Maddie Coleman (Alexandra Chando) will travel to "The Live Music Show Capital of the World" to further Gwen's musical career. Gwen's rival Jade Taylor (Elena Goode) will follow them to Branson to stir up trouble for the trio. In addition to Landon, Soffer, Chando and Goode, 21 production and crew members will travel to Branson to film at various locations. Additional personnel will be hired from the Branson area to assist with the shoot. "As The World Turns" celebrated its 50th anniversary last year and is normally taped in Brooklyn, New York.
February 22, 2007
Missouri Governor Matt Blunt met with a bipartisan panel at the Branson Chamber of Commerce to discuss input from the state Housing Development Commission. Equity in distribution of state funds between urban and rural housing was of primary focus. The meeting held in Branson was the first of three where real estate developers, public service groups, private citizens and homeless advocates are given the opportunity to share experiences and voice concerns for the current state housing programs in place. The goal of the meetings is to improve distribution of tax breaks and eliminating unnecessarily paperwork across the wider range of geographic areas throughout Missouri.
February 19, 2007
Branson celebrated the grand opening of the new Hilton Promenade in the Branson Landing overlooking Lake Taneycomo. The new 243-room hotel includes an indoor pool, health club, meeting rooms, in-room dining, and the famous Liberty Tavern Restaurant. The ribbon cutting ceremony was attended by Hilton corporate staff, local staff, government officials, business leaders, Chamber Ambassadors and included a huge turnout by the public. The award-winning Branson High School Band provided the music. The Liberty Tavern Restaurant on the ground floor celebrated its grand opening with a V.I.P. dinner. Two months earlier, the head chef of the Liberty Tavern chose Gerken %26 Associates Realtors to help him locate and buy his new Branson home.
February 14, 2007
Branson is being featured on MTV because love is in the air! The famous Branson Titanic museum attraction appeared on the weekly MTV reality series, "Engaged and Underage" starring a young couple from Nixa, Missouri. The Branson episode features a wedding reception of over 300 guests at the attraction for the Nixa couple. During the off-season, the world's largest Titanic museum plays host to weddings as side revenue, but still remains open year around.
February 8, 2007
A new overhead pedestrian bridge will be constructed to connect the downtown parking garage with the lobby of the new Branson Landing convention center. The bridge will allow people who park in the Branson Landing garage to easily pass over traffic on Sycamore Street and into the new convention center and Hilton 243-room hotel. Construction of the pedestrian bridge will begin this week with completion scheduled for late spring. The Branson Convention Center will open in late August.
February 3, 2007
The cost of a road connecting both the east and west sides of Taney County have been estimated at $25-30 million. The road, nicknamed the "east-west corridor", when completed will be four miles long with the intent of connecting Hollister to Kirbyville. The road will allow Taney County residents an easier route to Branson and Hollister and would clear up congested traffic at the intersection of Highway 76 and Business 65. Along this route, are many miles of flat fields which should encourage builders to invest and develop more affordable housing for the area. County officials are awaiting two other construction bids before they make a final decision.
January 25, 2007
According to the Branson Chamber, Branson is celebrating its most prosperous year ever with a record of almost 8 million visitors! Visitors to Branson jumped up by more than 500,000 in 2006, raising the number to to 7.88 million. The report also showed a 6.6 percent increase in hotel occupancy, which was one of the largest in the United States. Branson amusements increased by 21.1 percent, restaurants by 16 percent, lodging by 12.3 percent, and theaters by 0.2 percent. The average amount of time visitors spent in Branson also increased from 3.82 days to 4.46 days.
January 23, 2007
Branson Mayor Lou Schaefer is seeking a seventh term although his name won't appear on the April ballot. City officials declared he did not meet the prerequisites for running for office, because he was late in paying his 2006 personal property taxes by the required deadline. A state statute prohibits any candidate who has not paid taxes prior to the set deadline from appearing on a ballot. Schaefer paid his taxes and his penalty, but was still three days late. He announced he'll still run for his seventh consecutive term, but as a write-in candidate. Raeanne Presley, a former alderman and Branson business owner will be the only name appearing on the ballot for mayor.
January 19, 2007
Together we can achieve more! Several local governments and organizations in both Taney and Stone Counties have formed a new coalition called "The Branson Lakes Area Legislative Partnership". The group includes the Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce, City of Branson, City of Branson West, City of Forsyth, City of Hollister, City of Kimberling City, Forsyth Chamber of Commerce, Hollister Area Chamber of Commerce, Stone County, Table Rock Lake Area Chamber of Commerce, Taney County and Upper White River Basin Foundation, and Table Rock Lake Water Quality. Together, the group will work towards legislative priorities, expanding their network and advancing their presence at the Missouri State Capitol.
January 13, 2007
The Missouri National Guard, emergency personnel, community leaders and volunteers are all working together to chop, saw and dig their way out of the largest natural disaster Missouri has had to deal with. Just 40 miles north of Branson, Springfield is paralyzed by massive power outages, food, gasoline and equipment shortages caused by this weekend's brutal ice storm. About 400 members of the Missouri National Guard are in Springfield to check residences for those stranded in the cold and assist with cleanup. A major disaster declaration has been stated for 34 counties including Greene, St. Louis and St. Charles counties. Strangely enough, Branson received little-to-no ice damage. The demand for hotel rooms spiked as many Springfield residents who were without power or heat fled to Branson.
January 4, 2007
Voters approved a bond issue last year that allowed for further expansion of the Branson High School campus and that has now been completed! The new addition was recently finished over Christmas Break and includes a new science lab and ten new classrooms. Opened in 2002, Branson High School includes twelve computer labs, two gymnasiums and a state of the art theatre. The newly constructed wing enlarged the school by 15 percent.
December 27, 2006
Branson tourism is booming and it shows! For the first time ever, Branson Public Works will continue to operate its Cliff Drive water plant throughout the winter months due to an unprecedented demand. According to the Branson-Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce, there have been 150,000 more visitors to the Branson area in 2006, compared to last year. In the past, the Cliff Drive Water plant was routinely shut down in late November. This year, the amount of water being pumped to residents and businesses is up by over 50-percent.
December 15, 2006
More new homes are on the way! After setting a record in 2005 by permitting 225 single-family houses, Branson cooled off with just a little over 30 permits for 2006. However, the city has recently approved more subdivision plats which will eventually lead to an increase in housing construction. Signs of the increase have been appearing at city board of aldermen and planning %26 zoning meetings, with several proposed subdivisions gaining approval. The city also gave final approval to phase two of a subdivision in Branson Hills, which will offer 47 new homes.
December 8, 2006
Branson's entrance to its famed "76 Strip" is receiving a makeover. Construction recently began between U.S. 65 and Roark Valley Road. The $1.52 million project will create an extra eastbound lane on 76, make improvements to three traffic signals from Highway 65 to Roark Valley Road and create improvements to exit ramps between 65 and 76. The intent is to allow traffic on 76 to get onto 65 quicker. In order to add the extra eastbound lane, the state of Missouri purchased some property, which led to the demolition of a church and two businesses having to move their signs. The project is scheduled to be completed by May 2007.
December 2, 2006
For the second year in a row, Branson set a new record for construction! City officials announced $181 million in issued permits for new construction, surpassing 2005's record-setting total of $173.6 million. Some of the larger projects include Bass Pro Shops, Sullivan's Steak House, Branson Convention Center, Chili's Bar and Grill, Arvest Bank, MPI office, Hilton Branson Convention Center Hotel, Branson High School football stadium, and the new Sight and Sound Theater located on Shepherd of the Hills Expressway. In addition, 33 single-family homes were permitted through October. Existing businesses should benefit from the boom too. A new one-cent sales tax went into effect on April 1 and is expected to help generate $6 million a year in new funds to market the Branson area.
November 24, 2006
The day after Thanksgiving is considered to be the official kick-off to the Branson Christmas shopping season and many local retailers are bracing for the flux of people. This will be the first Christmas season for the Branson Landing and it's expected to be the biggest weekend for the destination yet. Local law enforcement, "City Courtesy Ambassadors" and employees from the Department of Public Works, will be on hand at the city's busiest intersections, to direct traffic, provide directions and hand out maps. Happy Holidays!
November 16, 2006
The first publicly-owned transportation system in Branson is off to a quick start! Less than a month after it started, the trolley system has proven to be very successful. The Downtown Branson Main Street Association recently began running a pair of free trolleys to help move shoppers around downtown, between old downtown and the new Branson Landing shopping district. Moving shoppers between the two areas is the primary motivation for the system. The trolley system is currently being funded by a one-cent sales tax approved and collected from downtown businesses.
November 8, 2006
Branson had a strong voter turnout for the November election with the Taney county clerk reporting 54 percent took part in the democratic process. There were four constitutional amendments on the ballot for Missouri residents to decide on: Amendment 2, voted "yes", dealt with stem cell research, Amendment 3, voted "no" for an increase in tobacco tax, Amendment 6, voted "yes", for tax exemption of veteran's organizations, and Amendment 7, was voted "no" for automatic pay increases to elected officials. Democratic state Auditor Claire McCaskill, beat incumbent Republican Jim Talent for Missouri Senate and Taney county followed suit with the rest of the state by voting an overwhelming approval for Proposition B, which will raise the state minimum wage from $5.15 to $6.50.
October 30, 2006
Branson has been chosen as the site for the 2008 AAU championship tournament. The AAU Division I tournament will feature teams of 11-and-under girls. Branson hosted an AAU division II championship tournament last year and is able to draw big tournaments due to the new recreation complex, 12 gyms and entertainment galore for the team's families. The AAU Division I tournament will bring higher prestige with over 90 teams, their parents, grandparents and siblings. The tournament, which will take place next June, is expected to boost the local economy by an estimated $4 million.
October 21, 2006
College of the Ozarks is receiving national attention for being named to "Barron's Best Buys in College Education", a college guide for students and parents seeking first-rate education at an affordable price. College of the Ozarks is unique because students work for their education by spending 15 hours a week at a campus, rather than paying tuition. Colleges were selected to appear in the book based on certain criteria, including tuition rates and the results of a questionnaire filled out by the dean of students and by students. College of the Ozarks is one of 247 colleges that represent the best combination of sound data and student satisfaction.
October 12, 2006
The Branson Veterans Task Force is preparing for the annual Veterans Homecoming held November 5th through the 11th. The tribute is to all veterans, active military and those who support them. Among the performers and celebrities that will be making an appearance during the Veterans Homecoming will be Pat Boone, Moe Bandy, Barbara Fairchild, Lee Greenwood and Mike Hammock. One of the biggest new additions will be the filming of the entire week. The events will be put into a series of programs that will be shown across the nation. Over 50,000 veterans and active military personal are expected to attend the Homecoming.
October 5, 2006
The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) said it will still be several more weeks until all four lanes on US 65 are open between Hollister and Branson. Crews recently began working day and night on the $27.2 million project to finish up the remaining median work. MoDOT officials reported that with all the traffic lights and crossovers removed, traffic is definitely moving smoother. The complete US 65 expansion project is expected to be finished by December 2007, finishing over $65 million in roadwork.
September 27, 2006
The Branson Aldermen approved a $46 million budget Monday for the 2006-07 budget year, representing a 10.9 percent increase. Some of the budget's highlights include funding the construction of intersection improvements at Missouri 248 and U.S. 65, future expansion of the city police department and more funds to complete a $7 million project to expand Fall Creek Road to James F. Epps Road. The budget also allows for the hiring of several new positions, including 10 new concessions workers at the city's recreation center, a new environmental health specialist, a fire prevention officer, a maintenance worker and an engineering technician. With all the new retail stores and attractions this year, the city will receive $20.8 million in tax revenues, up from $14.8 million last year.
September 20, 2006
More than 150 crafters will be in downtown Branson for the 33rd Annual Autumn Daze Arts %26 Crafts Festival. The festival begins at 9 a.m. Thursday and runs through Sunday, closing at 6 p.m. each day except Sunday, when it closes at 4. Located at the intersection of Commercial and Atlantic streets, the festival features craft booths and food vendors. A wide variety of crafts, ranging from wood, quilts, clothing, crocheted and knitted items, hats, purses, ladies accessories, toys, floral arrangements, ironwork and collectible dolls will be on display. All of them are hand-made. The downtown festival, which debuted in 1973, sees 20,000 people a day during the event.
September 15, 2006
A Branson developer announced plans for Pinnacle Falls. The $600 million development will be located along Missouri 76 and 376, and will include an aquarium, an indoor water park, shopping, dinning and themed attractions. The 80,000-square-foot indoor water park will feature 300 family suites. Some of the other development features would include a scenic, rushing river; interactive fountains; an echo wishing well and a giant glockenspiel tower. Special lighting, sound and animation will create an additional effect at night. According to the feasibility study, once Pinnacle Falls opens in 2009, it will generate over $150 million in sales and be visited by more than 4 million people, of which 400,000 will be new to the market. Those same visitors are projected to spend $140 million in other Branson businesses the first year.
September 7, 2006
Over the weekend, the Branson Landing boardwalk, which stretches along the 1.5-mile development's lakeshore, opened, allowing people to stroll alongside Lake Taneycomo. Retail on the Landing is almost completed, with only one rental space left to lease. A contract was signed last week on a marina for the northern portion of the Landing. Bass Pro Shops will continue to develop a former floating restaurant, The White River Fish Company, which will offer indoor and outdoor dining. Still to be completed are several condominiums and a hotel. Adjacent to the Branson Landing, a convention center and Hilton hotel are scheduled to open in August 2007.
August 20, 2006
Almost all numbers are indicating that Branson is in the middle of its best tourism season ever. The area has seen a 6.5 percent increase in tourists so far this year. And it’s not just that more people are coming to Branson. They’re staying longer and spending more. The average length of stay for a Branson tourist this year has been 4.46 days, up 16.7 percent from last year’s 3.82, and the longest amount since before 2001. Hotels have been enjoying a particularly strong year too. Room rates, room demand and occupancy are all up in Branson at rates much higher than the state or nation are enjoying. Among other encouraging numbers is that tourists are traveling farther to get to Branson. More than 65 percent of all tourists this year traveled at least 300 miles to get here, compared to 59 percent last year.
August 12, 2006
The Lone Company is proposing to build a $144 million riverboat casino in Rockaway Beach. Due to the immense growth in neighboring Branson and the number of people living within the 100 mile radius, the company is gambling it will be a viable project. The casino proposal includes 900 new permanent full-time jobs, generating $34.3 million in tax revenues a year for Missouri and $7.6 million a year for Rockaway Beach and Taney County. Even if the city does agree to go along with the developer’s plans, an amendment must be made to the Missouri constitution to allow gambling on the White River. In 2004, it was defeated.
August 3, 2006
A new Branson development may turn out to be the tallest building in southern Missouri. HCW Development Company, of Branson, and Evergreen Investments, of Lebanon, introduced plans for a 25-story, 300-foot-tall resort complex in Branson. Estimated at $100 million, the skyscraper will be built at the site of the former Branson Inn, located on Missouri 248, next to U.S. 65. The skyscraper will include retail sales, condominiums, luxury residences, a restaurant and bar, meeting space, structured parking, and a museum featuring classic cars. Should it gain approval by the city, construction on the project will begin late this year, with an opening expected in 2009.
July 29, 2006
It took only eight weeks for the Branson Landing to attract a million people! The new $420 million retail and convention center project, which began opening in stages in May, has exceeded its sales projections. So far, 70 percent of the space is open and 98 percent of the space has been leased. The boardwalk that runs next to Lake Taneycomo will open in just a few weeks and the convention center and Hilton Hotel are expected to open in 2007. The Landing projects it will attract over 4 million people this year alone.
July 21, 2006
With the heat index expected to hit highs of 106 today, locals and visitors alike, are faced with having to cope with the recent heat wave. For the last three days, it has reached over 100 degrees in Branson! According to the National Weather Service some relief from the heat is on its way for the weekend. Saturday and Sunday's forecast calls for the weather to be partly cloudy and in the mid 80's. We'll say one thing for sure, Table Rock Lake feels warmer than bathwater. It's great!
July 15, 2006
The brand new $11 million Branson RecPlex had its grand opening late last month. Since then, the facility has been a way for area residents to get in shape and have some fun, but it's also providing an economic impact. By playing host to several sports tournaments, including a United States Sports Specialty baseball tournament this week, the RecPlex is helping generate millions of dollars for the Branson area. In addition, the city is working with the Branson Sports Authority, a committee of the Branson Chamber of Commerce, on bringing events to Branson, such as the American Athletic Union Girls basketball tournament.
July 6, 2006
After a record-breaking year in construction in 2005, Branson officials predict the city may break records again in 2006. The city permitted a total of $173.6 million in new construction last year. City officials said that through June of this year, $131 million dollars worth of construction has been permitted. The current construction expansion is attributed to the development of the Branson Landing in which a domino effect has occurred. Major projects permitted in Branson so far this year include Sight %26 Sound Theater, Bass Pro Shops, Branson Convention Center, Hilton Convention Center Hotel, two office buildings, two retail centers and a bank. Gerken %26 Associates recently received a building permit for their office expansion as well!
July 1, 2006
Branson School District officials report that the new $4.8 million football stadium and athletic field will be ready for the school season this fall. The Branson Pirates' first home game is Sept. 8 against Rogersville. The new stadium boasts over 3,000 seats bought from the Kansas City Chiefs' Arrowhead Stadium. The $4.8 million project was paid for as part of a $22 million bond issue. The bond also pays for construction of a $15.1 million fifth and sixth grade building and includes a $1 million project to help alleviate traffic congestion at the Cedar Ridge campus. The district plans to build an additional entrance to the campus from the intersection of Missouri 248 and Gretna Road.
June 28, 2006
A ceremony was held for the new addition to the Taneyhills Community Library in downtown Branson. 32,500 bricks used in the construction were sold to help pay for the $800,000 project. Construction of the new wing began in December, 2005 and was the biggest expansion for the library since it doubled its size in 1995. The upstairs portion of the new wing houses a children's section and the downstairs is for a thrift shop and book store. The book store includes gifts for sale, something new that has been added to help the library's fundraising efforts.
June 24, 2006
The $20 million Bee Creek Sewer Project now has the necessary resources to support it. The Department of Natural Resources will soon finalize their review in which the sewer district will place the project up for bid, subdivided into four contracts due to its massive size. Set from Missouri 248, west to the Tri-Lakes Center area, east to Lake Taneycomo, and north to Rhinehardt Road, the project encompasses nearly 4,000 acres of residential and commercial property. Contractors will be bound by an 18-month completion date, with estimated finish in 2008.
June 17, 2006
The Missouri Department of Transportation announced it has accepted a bid to begin construction on a four-lane highway from Hollister to Arkansas. The $27.2 million, four-lane will begin at the intersection of U.S. 65 and Missouri 165, where a current highway-widening project in Hollister ends, and will stretch to the Missouri-Arkansas border where it will join the existing four-lane 65. Work on the project will begin at the end of the summer with it ready for traffic by the end of 2007. The expansion north of Hollister to Branson, which includes the addition of two more lanes to 65 and the construction of a new bridge over Lake Taneycomo, will be done this fall. The expansion of 65 to four lanes through Hollister will be done by July 4th. Man, this area is rockin'!
June 15, 2006
Tomorrow at the Branson Landing, another wave of stores will open, including the development's boardwalk and high-tech water fountain. The celebration will feature opening ceremonies, a retail ribbon cutting and the christening of the water fountain. The fountain features six canons shooting water 120 feet in the air and 13 fire canons shooting balls of flame dissipating at 40 feet. The water and flames will also be synchronized to music. The $8 million fountain was manufactured by Wet Design, the company responsible for several well-known fountains, including the one at the Bellagio hotel in Las Vegas.
June 12, 2006
The venue for two grand finale concerts has changed for Branson's annual welcome home celebration for the nation's Vietnam veterans. The Heartland Benefit Concert has moved from its previous location in Highlandville to the Mansion America Theatre in Branson. The concert is part of a week long event, Welcome Home 2006. Vietnam era veterans wanting to register for the event may do so by calling 1.800.335.4587.
June 8, 2006
City officials expressed pride in Branson tourists and residents in how they adapted to using a unique type of intersection that was opened March 30th. The city's first roundabout, common in other parts of the world, is rare in the United States. According to the city's engineering department, more than 18,000 vehicles travel Branson Landing Boulevard. Construction on a second roundabout at the intersection of Business 65 and Missouri 76 at the south end of the bridge going across Lake Taneycomo will begin by the end of the summer.
June 4, 2006
Vietnam veterans from all over the nation will make their way to Branson in two weeks and a long list of events and entertainers will be here to welcome them. A similar event held last year attracted approximately 35,000 veterans and their families. This year officials say they are expecting nearly 60,000 veterans for Welcome Home 2006. Performers include Jeff Cook, The Bellamy Brothers, Collin Raye, Chely Wright, Paulette Carlson, John Conlee and Johnny Lee, as well as Branson performers Mickey Gilley, Moe Bandy Doug Gabriel, Dalena Ditto, Amanda, Brandi Noelle and The Boyle Brothers. The concert also includes Rex Smith, Chris Noel, The Liverpool Legends, Shawna Stratton and Chrissy Fortner. Proceeds from the concert will benefit the Wounded Warrior Project, Operation Troop Aid and the Branson Veterans Task Force. Welcome Home 2006 will begin June 11 with a dedication ceremony of a traveling Vietnam Memorial Wall at the Mansion America Theatre.
May 28, 2006
Branson residents joined city officials for the opening of the city's largest retail development ever opened in Branson's 93-year history. Five years in the making, the promenade included an official ribbon-cutting ceremony, live music and a speech by the Mayor. Half of the 100 stores at the $420 million downtown development along Lake Taneycomo opened their doors to the public. Openings will continue this summer and into 2007. Bass Pro Shops is slated to open June 8 on the south end of the development. A grand celebration will be held June 16, which at that time, the boardwalk and waterfront fountains will be finished.
May 21, 2006
After heavy rainfall this spring, Table Rock Lake has rebounded from record lows in time for the boating season. Earlier this year, lake levels had dropped 12 feet, causing much concern. On Feb. 13, the levels reached their lowest at 902. Now the lake has risen back up to 915, which is considered full. 915 feet is where the water can be used for conventional purposes, if any higher, it’s brought back down to that level for flood control.
May 14, 2006
Historic downtown Branson will host the 33rd annual Plumb Nellie Days May 19-21. The annual festival includes over 150 crafters and artists at the corners of Commercial and Atlantic featuring delicious foods, sidewalk sales, “The Outrageous Dog Show,” and live entertainment in celebration of the Ozark's heritage. “The Outrageous Dow Show” is Saturday at 10 a.m. with awards going to the longest ears, ugliest dog, most talented, shortest legs, most spots, longest tail and cutest puppy. Admission to the arts and crafts show is free.
May 11, 2006
Despite recent weather-related delays, officials say the Branson Landing is still on schedule to open May 26. The $420 million retail development along Lake Taneycomo in downtown Branson will feature nearly 100 shops and restaurants; approximately 50 are expected to be ready by May 26. The Landing will also feature a hotel and condominiums that will open later this year. A convention center and hotel are slated to open in 2007. Although roughly half of the stores and restaurants on the Landing will open May 26, neither the boardwalk nor the water fountain display will be ready. The lights and water for the fountain will be operational, but the color-changing programming and music won’t be finished until the dedication of the Landing’s grand opening June 16, when several more stores are supposed to open.
May 2, 2006
The Branson Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce is doing what it can to ease the impact of high gas prices. The “Gas Buster” program, which allows Branson visitors to exchange gas for area savings, began recently. To take advantage of the program, tourists can stop by the chamber welcome centers on Missouri 248 or U.S. 65. There, they can present a valid driver’s license and proof of gas purchases totaling a minimum of $40, incurred within two days of arrival, to receive a card worth $50 in discounts at various area businesses.
April 25, 2006
Branson is leading the way as Missouri's unemployment rate drops! According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the state of Missouri added 33,900 jobs from March 2005 to March 2006, dropping the state's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate a full percentage point. Branson is enjoying an upsurge in employment, with several new projects having recently opened. In Branson Hills Plaza, a Target, Home Depot and T.J. Maxx opened in March, adding hundreds of people to the work force. Another 1,700 jobs are expected to be available at the Branson Landing, many of which are year-round with benefits.
April 16, 2006
The Rockaway Beach Gaming Committee is attempting to gain support in the pursuit to build a riverboat casino. Five billboards touting a riverboat casino are now up in the Branson area. The billboards were launched to help attract support to pass a statewide bill making gambling legal on Lake Taneycomo at Rockaway Beach. Of the more than 1 million Missourians who voted on the issue in August 2004, 55.9 percent opposed it. Currently, Missouri only allows casinos along the Missouri and Mississippi rivers.
April 11, 2006
Regis Philbin helped make the Titanic's debut a memorable one. A crowd of several hundred gathered along 76 Country Boulevard and Gretna Road outside the World's Largest Museum attraction. Also on hand were two great grandchildren of Titanic survivor Molly Brown: Muffet Laurie Brown and Helen Benziger McKinney. The previous night, a fund-raiser was held at the attraction for the Boys %26 Girls Club of the Ozarks which raised nearly $10,000!
April 2, 2006
The American Bus Association named Branson Fest a Top 100 North American Event for the third year in a row. The 14th annual event, hosted by the Branson Chamber of Commerce kicks off April 4-8, at the Welk Resort Theatre Complex. The festival of food and entertainment, features over 500 world-class entertainers, hot air balloon rides, local artists, craftsmen, and cuisine. Fans will have the opportunity to meet and pose for photos with Branson area entertainers and celebrities. Our own Charlie Gerken, will be out in a golf cart offering free rides to and from the parking lots. To receive a free visitor information packet, call (800) 214-3661.
March 26, 2006
The Western Taney County Fire Protection District's new station, located in Hollister has opened. The station cost approximately $470,000, including the cost of land. The new station has four apparatus bays, a training room, an exercise room, a kitchen and living quarters to house four live-in firefighters. The old fire station, which was being leased by Western from the city of Hollister, will now provide storage room for the city.
March 11, 2006
The Branson Planning %26 Zoning Commission gave approval to plans that could bring a Sam’s Club and Wal-Mart Supercenter to The Shoppes at Branson Hills, a retail district in northern Branson. The proposed project will go to the Branson Board of Aldermen March 13th for approval of a subdivision plat. The entire project is being partially funded through tax increment financing, in which a portion of the taxes collected from within the shopping district is used to reimburse development costs, such as parking lots, roads, retaining walls and infrastructure.
Febuary 21, 2006
Branson will hold an “open house” from 4:30-6:30 p.m. March 9 at the Municipal Courtroom at City Hall to review mass transit alternatives to relieve traffic congestion along 76 Country Boulevard. The public will be able to review the study, alternatives and offer feedback. Alternatives include a shuttle-bus service or a bus service combined with a rail service. The two-year mass transit study began in April 2004 with the $562,500 study largely being paid for by a $450,000 federal grant. The city will pay the remaining $112,500.
February 10, 2006
The city of Branson approved building permits for $44.6 million in new construction for the month of January, a new record for the month. This total represents more new construction than the city saw in the entire years of 1997 ($22.8 million), 1998 ($43.8 million) and 2001 ($41.3 million). Last year Branson produced a record-breaking $173.6 million in new construction.
January 30, 2006
The Department of Natural Resources has awarded Branson West a $1.35 million grant to improve the city's wastewater system. The grant, funded by the State Water Pollution Bond Funds and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, will be used to establish a phosphorus removal facility at the city's wastewater treatment plant. The new project will cost approximately $2.21 million and completion is expected by February 2007.
January 12, 2006
A ceremony held at Whiteman Air Force Base dedicated an Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt II jet plane to Branson due to the city's devotion to veterans. The “Thunderbolt of Branson” is specially designed for close air support of ground forces and used against ground targets, including armored tanks. Each year, Branson hosts several activities and week-long events in honor of veterans. Last year the city held, "Operation Homecoming" to honor men and women from the Vietnam War.
January 5, 2006
With each passing year, more and more people come to Branson during the week between Christmas and New Year's. In fact, just a decade ago, many Branson businesses and attractions closed the week before Christmas and didn't reopen again until March. Now with season-extending promotions, such as "Hot Winter Fun" and "BransonFest", many Branson businesses are staying open year-round. This year, a record of 17 theaters are playing through the winter!
December 15, 2005
The new U.S. 65 Bridge over Lake Taneycomo as well as the widening of U.S. 65 to the Arkansas border are well on their way! Bridge supports and construction has progressed quickly with most of the work done on both access areas to the new bridge. The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) designers are finishing final designs for the project.
November 25, 2005
The Branson Adoration Parade has been an Ozarks tradition for over half a century. This year the 57th Adoration Parade is scheduled for December 4th at 5 p.m. It will travel north of Business 65 and Commercial Street. Route changes are necessary due to the construction of the new Branson Landing, which is scheduled to open spring of 2006.
November 13, 2005
Silver Dollar City presents a new development for 2006! An 8 million expansion, the Grand Exposition will open two new acres into the theme park, in which guests are brought back into time to experience the golden era of the World's Fairs and Expositions. Ten new rides are currently being manufactured in Italy. They include a five-story Wave Swinger for high-flying adventure; a ship which sends riders 60 feet in the air; a Spinning Disk that travels 55 feet in the air as it spins, twirling Tea Cups, and the fast-paced Regetta, a new family roller coaster. Several smaller rides with nature themes will offer excitement for younger kids.
November 09, 2005
Construction in the Branson Hills Parkway area, where the Branson Area Festival of Lights used to be, has lead to an exciting change for visitors to Branson's 2005 Ozarks Mountain Christmas. Instead of the gorgeous light displays being located all in one place, the majority of them will be relocated to different locations around Branson.
*Source: Branson.comA real estate auction allows a seller to choose the date and exact manner in which to sell. More and more heirs and investors consider the auction process to be their efficient sales choice.
Gerken %26 Associates has conducted numerous successful auctions. We're capable of representing sellers from a variety of real estate; including single and multi-family residential properties, office buildings, shopping centers, marinas, hotels and land.
We can conduct auctions on all kinds of personal property too; including commercial and industrial machinery, food service equipment, automobiles, household furnishings, antiques and collectibles.
Our Auctioning staff is informed with associated laws and are aware of potential pitfalls to avoid. Trained agents are skilled in applicable promotions and will design and distribute print advertising, website promotion and targeted mail to buyers in newspapers, trade magazines and public relations to bring them out and get it sold.When a real estate agency places an advertisement for your property, who creates the ad? Ever wonder who did their company's logo, business card or website?
Witness the strength of quality customer service teamed with marketing expertise. At Gerken %26 Associates, we have an in-house marketing department with design and production experience that makes our stuff look cool.
Marketing is an investment, not just a necessary expense. Sales agents are given tailored marketing support and assistance to stimulate attention and draw interest to your property. Each property's marketing and advertising activities are tracked and recorded.
Our marketing team has educated skills and experience in award-winning advertising collateral, public relations and event coordination. Whether it's a residential listing presentation or a complete overhaul to your corporate look, you'll find us to be a fun and creative team to work with.Ready to retire from the duties of managing your property? From office buildings to shopping centers, Gerken %26 Associates has been offering successful property management to our clients for years.
Currently, we manage over 20 commercial tenants and all of our property managers are experienced agents who practice hands-on real estate management. Complete inspections of the building, its systems and outside areas are performed regularly.
Our experienced team of professionals can handle all areas of property marketing, leasing and sales. We'll eliminate hours taken from your week by managing the building and processing maintenance regularly. We use only our approved list of qualified service providers for repairs and maintenance.
We manage property as if were our own and that rule has always worked well for us. Tenants frequently speak highly of the attention and service we give them. So do the property owners.Ready to sell or invest? For years, Gerken %26 Associates has provided commercial real estate brokerage to the booming Branson community.
Our agents monitor new listings, what markets are experiencing growth and the latest in demographic and real estate trends. We can help your company determine and allocate real estate costs, all while maintaining detailed reports to keep you informed on the process.
Through guidance and insight to the local market, we provide instant access to opportunities in commercial land, office space, industrial, theaters, residential development and retail space.
We have a successful track record of connecting property owners to investors and tenants through real estate transactions, lease negotiations, market research, site evaluation and selection.
Together, we'll help you find the property that meets your investment objectives.Gerken %26 Associates helps people buy and sell homes in the most cost efficient, stress-free method possible.
We negotiate what's important to you, including protecting your interests and keeping you informed throughout the entire process.
All our agents are professionally licensed Realtors. In addition to being licensed by Missouri to sell real estate, Gerken %26 Associates belongs to the National Association of Realtors and abides by a strict Code of Ethics.
Please click the options below to view how we can assist you.Over 5 million homes are sold each year and since the last decade, new seller disclosure statements, environmental concerns and intensive form agreements have emerged on the scene.
It's certainly become more complex than it use to be. If you’re thinking about selling, here’s some great advice to keep in mind.
Think About It
Take a good hard look at your house. Do you really want to sell? If so, you'll need to begin disconnecting yourself from the emotional attachment of your home. Get yourself psyched about moving in order to begin a new chapter in your life.
Select A Realtor%26%23174;
You may not like the idea of parting with a percentage of your home's value, especially when you're facing the prospect of getting less than you dreamed of. And with the Internet making do-it-yourself sales easier than ever, you may be tempted to dispense with an agent. But in a sales environment, marketing is everything, and an experienced agent--that is, one who has actual marketing skills - is invaluable.
A Realtor will prepare a market analysis on your home to help determine its value and price to list. Once your property is on the market, they’ll (literally) drive people to it. They’ll steer you through the tortuous sales process, by negotiating terms and handling the inevitable glitches that crop up. All while evaluating and tracking marketing and closing costs so you don’t lose your shorts in the process!
Please review qualifications in the Residential Seller services section in how Gerken %26 Associates can help you.
Good Reasons Why You Need A Realtor%26%23174;
A real estate transaction is complicated. In most cases, buying or selling a home requires disclosure forms, inspection reports, mortgage documents, insurance policies, deeds, and multi-page government-mandated settlement statements. A knowledgeable guide through this complexity can help you avoid delays or costly mistakes.
Selling or buying a home is time consuming. Even in a strong market, homes in our area stay on the market for an average of 90 days. And it usually takes another 60 days or so for the transaction to close after an offer is accepted.
Real estate has its own language. If you don't know a CMA from a PUD, you can understand why it's important to work with someone who speaks that language.
Realtors have done it before. Most people buy and sell only a few homes in a lifetime, usually with quite a few years in between each purchase. And even if you’ve done it before, laws and regulations change. That’s why having an expert on your side is critical.
Realtors provide objectivity. Since a home often symbolizes family, rest, and security, not just four walls and roof, home selling or buying is often a very emotional undertaking. And for most people, a home is the biggest purchase they'll every make. Having a concerned, but objective, third party helps you keep focused on both the business and emotional issues most important to you.
Items To Clean, Fix Or Inspect
Once you’ve decided to sell, determine what needs to be repaired, cleaned, painted, or donated. Gerken %26 Associates view numerous homes a month and can provide suggestions that are comparable to your marketplace.
Improvements should be consistent with your neighborhood and does not involve high capital investments.
Small cosmetic improvements, including paint and landscaping will help show your home better and hold the price. Below are some easy things to fix that take little money or effort, but will help sell your house faster.
Align and clean gutters.Paint the front and garage door if needed.Check all appliances for working condition.Trim trees, hedges and flowerbeds.Repair dripping faucets and showerheads.Inspect and replace any damaged roof shingles.Check for dampness in the basement and attic.Spot paint door and window trim.Examine siding and caulking for any peeling.Re-seal cracks in asphalt patios or driveway.Clean chimney.Replace broken or cracked windowpanes.Inspect plumbing systems.Repair damage to plaster, wallboard and tiles.Power wash vinyl siding.
Get It On The Market
Markets tend to provide balance between buyers and sellers all year around. There may be fewer buyers in December, but there are likely fewer homes available as well. Thus home prices fall or rise due to demand patterns, rather than the time of year. Owners are encouraged to sell their property once it is ready and have acquired professional services of a local Realtor.
Great Ways To Speed Up Your Sale
Price it right. Set a price at the lower end of your property's realistic price range.
Get your house market ready for at least two weeks before you begin showing it.
Be flexible about showings. It's often disruptive to have a house ready to show on the spur of the moment, but the more often someone can see your home, the sooner you’ll find a buyer.
Be ready for the offers. Decide in advance what price and terms you'll find acceptable.
Don’t refuse to drop the price. If your home has been on the market for more than 30 days without an offer, be prepared to lower your asking price.
Showing Your Home
Many sellers consider the marketing period one of the most stressful parts in selling a home. Everything about your life is on display to the public.
In just the brief period that buyers view your place, all kinds of judgments are passed upon your home. Here are some simple tips to increase a successful showing of your property.
Add a flower pot near the front entrance.Control barking or intrusive pets.Keep walkways clear of ice, snow and debris.Give potential buyers time to explore.Water and maintain your yard. Keep garage door closed.Stay flexible with showing times. Keep a spacious look both inside and out. Eliminate offensive odors.Store motorcycles and unused cars off site.Leave home during the showing.
Terms To Watch For In A Contract
The closing date. See if the date the buyer wants to take title is reasonable for you.
Date of possession. See if the date the buyer wants to move in is reasonable for you.
The earnest money. Look for the largest earnest money deposit possible; since it is forfeited if the buyer backs out, a large deposit is usually a good indication of a sincere buyer.
Fixtures and personal property. Check the list of items that the buyer expects to remain with the property and be sure it's acceptable.
Repairs. Determine what the requested repairs will cost and whether you're willing to do the work or would rather lower the price by that amount.
Contingencies. See what other factors the buyer wants met before the contract is final—inspections, selling a home, obtaining a mortgage, review of the contract by an attorney. Set time limits on contingencies so that they won’t drag on and keep your sale from becoming final.
The contract expiration date. See how long you have to make a decision on the offer.
Hang Tight
Once you have an offer agreed upon your house, the rest is all down hill, especially if you have a Gerken %26 Associates agent to represent you.
The buyer's lender will request your home be appraised and inspectors will come by to check for termite and foundation damage. Your real estate agent will handle all these necessities and closing figures to ensure a successful closing day.October 6, 2009
Jeff Gerken was recently honored by the Tri-Lakes Board of Realtors with the "Realtor Spotlight Award". Aside from being a top area sales producer, Jeff was recognized for his continued service to the Branson community, including the Boys %26 Girls Club, serving as a YMCA soccer coach and on the Hollister Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. Way to go Jeff!
September 26, 2009
Gerken %26 Associates is a booth vender in Hollister's 11th Annual Grape and Fall Festival. Held at Hollister’s historic Downing Street, the event attracts thousands of visitors for a grape-stomping good time! Festival features include the Grape Stomp, Basketball Tournament, Children’s Activity Tent, Entertainment Stage featuring live entertainment from area stars, Ozarks arts and crafts booths, Food Court and other area vendors that help keep admission to the annual event free.
September 24, 2009
Jon Holloway, Jay Jones, Jeff and Charlie Gerken participated in the Tri-Lakes Board of Realtors Chili cook-off competition. Entries were submitted in the "hot %26 spicy" "white bean" and "normal" chili categories. Although our chili didn't take first place, we had a great time participating and will be working diligently to perfecting our recipes. Special thanks to the Carol Turpin, G%26A Office Administrator, for providing delicious desert items.
August 20, 2009
Gerken %26 Associates participated in a miniature golf tournament fundraiser for the Missouri Association of Realtors' non-profit Center for Education %26 Private Enterprise. The Center provides scholarships for high school students to attend Missouri Business Week at Missouri University. The Center also provides training materials to teachers for the "It's Your Move" program, which covers the home buying process, terminology and other valuable information related to housing. Over 40 golfers participated in the local fundraising event.
July 4, 2009
Enjoy the fireworks, hot dogs and burgers as Gerken %26 Associates Realtors is closed in honor of Independence Day. Should you need to reach any of us, you can always contact a live agent on duty via our toll free number. Most of us are available, unless we are on Table Rock Lake water skiing; then you might need to leave a voicemail.
May 21, 2009
Gerken %26 Associates Realtors donated auctioneering services to the annual Tri-Lakes Board of Realtors RPAC (Realtor Political Action Committee) auction. Duane Gerken, auctioneer colonel for the firm, was the sole auctioneer for the event, and along with his staff, set a record amount of over $15,000 raised. Money raised at this event goes towards helping individuals protect private property rights.
April 1, 2009
All agents at Gerken %26 Associates are now Realtors for Green Living (RGL). RGL is comprised of members of the Tri-Lakes Board of Realtors who have a passion for living green. Each RGL member has taken a "Green Living" class and the oath to "Live Today to Help Save Tomorrow." RGL is a community minded group looking to do its part in preserving and restoring the Tri-Lakes area and educating its citizens.
March 25, 2009
Gerken %26 Associates was a corporate sponsor of the NAIA Basketball Tournament held on the campus of College of the Ozarks over the last two weeks. Over 30 teams participated from around the country. The tournament was deemed a huge success by NAIA officials and has been held at the College of the Ozarks in Branson since 2000.
February 26, 2009
Charlie Gerken was honored with the Tri-Lakes Board of Realtors Appreciation Award by Jim Stephenson, broker for Realty Executives. Charlie was given the award for "doing good things when no one is looking". Each month the Tri-Lakes Board of Realtors recognizes one of its members for outstanding service to the organization.
February 20, 2009
Gerken %26 Associates attended the 62nd Branson Chamber "Black Tie Dinner", a yearly gathering of community business members. During the event, recognition was paid to Branson's top leaders, including the presentation of the Pioneer, Ambassador, Beautification and Community Spirit Awards. During the event, Charlie Gerken was recognized for his continuing role as a Branson Chamber Ambassador and Board of Director.
February 10, 2009
Jeff Gerken served as a "Youth of the Year" judge for the Boys %26 Girls Club which is the highest recognition bestowed upon a teen member. Over the course of a year, Club members are recognized monthly at each facility based upon character, participation and grades. Each facility chooses the top 3 candidates to participate in a public speaking and interview competition with community leaders. Ultimately, the competition is multi-tiered and results in Boys %26 Girls Clubs of America naming one "Youth of the Year" to represent the Club across the country for a year.
January 3, 2008
We're honored to start another New Year with Harriet Leenerts. Harriet is a Broker who has been with the Gerken %26 Associates sales' team for over 30 years! She has an admired history of dedication to client satisfaction and served as President of the Tri-Lakes Board of Realtors. Through good markets and bad, Harriet has been through it all. The national news may claim it's a rough time to be in real estate, but not in our office. Things are rockin' along as normal. Happy New Years to all!
December 8, 2008
The Vacation Channel will feature Charlie Gerken on the station's popular series, "Branson Community Connection". Recently, Charlie was invited to participate in an interview and lively discussion with TV host, Kathryn Buckstaff regarding the local real estate market. The Vacation Channel is available on local cable TV in more than 47,000 homes and lodging accommodations, with an audience of visitors and Branson area residents.
November 26, 2008
Gerken %26 Associates donated their time in revolving shifts to CAM (Christian Action Ministries) for the 20th Annual Holiday Food Harvest. The annual food drive was set up at area grocery stores located throughout Branson to help meet the needs of our citizens. Several local business organizations volunteered to help deliver the donated food and items. By the end of the day, numerous truck loads were donated, making it one of the most successful food drives ever!
November 20, 2008
Jon Holloway, Jay Jones, Jeff and Charlie Gerken participated in the Tri-Lakes Board of Realtors Chili cook-off competition. Entries were submitted in the "hot %26 spicy" "white bean" and "normal" chili categories. Although our chili didn't take first place, we had a great time participating and will be working diligently to perfecting our recipes. Special thanks to the Farmhouse Restaurant for providing an awesome kitchen to prepare our entries.
October 27, 2008
The majority of agents at Gerken %26 Associates are now Realtors for Green Living (RGL). RGL is comprised of members of the Tri-Lakes Board of Realtors who have a passion for living green. Each RGL member has taken a "Green Living" class and the oath to "Live Today to Help Save Tomorrow." RGL is a community minded group looking to do its part in preserving and restoring the Tri-Lakes area and educating its citizens.
October 14, 2008
Gerken %26 Associates donated auctioneering services for the Christian Action Ministries Butterfly Ball %26 Benefit Auction held at Chateau on the Lake. The auction featured the top 25 favorite butterfly sculptures which were sponsored by local businesses and turned into creative masterpieces by talented area artists. This community-wide project was created to benefit Christian Action Ministries and their service efforts in Taney County.
October 5, 2008
Congratulations Kay Gerken! Kay was honored as the 2008 "Realtor of the Year" at the Missouri Association of Realtors Business Conference. Candidates were evaluated on the basis of their activity in civic affairs, activity in the Realtor Association at the local, state and national levels, and business accomplishments. Kay's husband, Duane Gerken received Missouri's "Realtor of the Year" award in 2001.
September 11, 2008
Good job guys! Bob Warlick, Jon Holloway and Jay Jones recently completed and passed the GRI-403 and GRI-401 course and exams. The two day course, included topics ranging from current residential financing information, financing fundamentals of Conventional, FHA, VA, ARMs and current innovative financing techniques. In total, there are six agents at Gerken %26 Associates who have earned their GRI (Graduate Realtor Institute) designations.
August 26, 2008
Way to go Jeff, Charlie and Kay Gerken! All three passed the certified SRS (Sellers Residential Specialist) designation exam last week. The SRS course, sponsored by the Springfield Board of Realtors included topics ranging from tough negotiations to collaborating with a variety of cooperating agents of all skills levels in the marketplace. Less than one percent in the Tri-Lakes Board of Realtors are certified Sellers Residential Specialists. Yet another example of what sets our firm apart from the rest of the pack.
August 8, 2008
Jay Jones, Jon Holloway, Jeff and Charlie Gerken attended an Advanced MLS training course sponsored by the Tri-Lakes Board of Realtors. Specific topics included CMA searches, mapping, geo-coding, and reverse prospecting. The Multiple Listing Service (MLS), a complex software tool designed for more than just searching properties is the lifeline to the real estate industry. The more we incorporate its advanced technologies, the greater service we're able to provide our clients.
July 15, 2008
Jon Holloway recently joined Gerken %26 Associates as a residential Realtor. Working in management for the last six years in the Branson hotel industry, Jon is a Branson Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce Leadership Graduate and has experience as a successful real estate investor. We're excited to have him on our team!
June 26, 2008
Gerken %26 Associates is excited to welcome Jay Jones to our residential real estate division. A long standing local for over 20 years, Jay offers his local knowledge of the area, experience as a builder and passion for real estate to his clients. Welcome aboard Jay!
June 20, 2008
Gerken %26 Associates attended the Branson Chamber of Commerce 10th annual Small Business Awards Dinner held at Buckingham's in the Clarion Hotel at the Palace. Of the nine small businesses that were nominated, Comfort Inn %26 Suites was named the winner. Other chamber nominees included Branson Scenic Railway, Christian Action Ministries, Creative Printing %26 Design, French Hen Café %26 Coffeehouse, Hansen's Tree Service, Lilley's Landing, Ozark Trails Magazine and Touch of Class.
June 14, 2008
Carol Turpin, Office Administrator for Gerken %26 Associates Realtors, was honored by the Hollister Chamber of Commerce as the June Volunteer of the Month. Carol earned this recognition for her many hours spent contacting the membership for fair share amounts. Her commitment and dedication have helped the Hollister Chamber boost dues income and strengthen its ability to serve the community and its members. Way to go Carol!
June 14, 2008
Carol Turpin, Office Administrator for Gerken %26 Associates Realtors, was honored by the Hollister Chamber of Commerce as the June Volunteer of the Month. Carol earned this recognition for her many hours spent contacting the membership for fair share amounts. Her commitment and dedication have helped the Hollister Chamber boost dues income and strengthen its ability to serve the community and its members. Way to go Carol!
June 2, 2008
The Tri-Lakes Board of Realtors gave recognition to Gerken %26 Associates for their continued service to the board as several members from the firm were conducted into the 2008 Honor Society. In addition, firm members were paid tribute for their generous donations to RPAC (Realtor Political Action Committee), a group which raises funds for those in political office whom are supportive of protecting private property rights. Jeff Gerken was also recognized for graduation from this year's Tri-Lakes Board of Realtors Leadership class.
May 23, 2008
Officially opened a month before schedule, Gerken %26 Associates attended the premier opening of Sight %26 Sound Theater's new Branson show entitled, "Noah The Musical". Audience members were treated to the story of Noah as he leads live animals through the crowd on the way to the Ark which stands as a state-of-the-art set design that towers four stories above the audience. Truly a sight to see, tickets are on sale now and available online.
May 9, 2008
Gerken %26 Associates attended the "One Year Before Opening" celebration of the new Branson Airport being developed on 922-acres just 8 miles south of Branson. Over 500 guests were in attendance for the event, which included a tour of the construction site and future plans announced by local dignitaries. The Branson airport will be the first privately-financed and operated commercial airport in the United States.
May 2, 2008
Charlie Gerken participated in the Branson Elementary School's Literacy Day. The annual event was sponsored by the Branson Hollister Rotary Club in which male members of the club individually read books to the school's first graders over the course of a couple of hours. In addition, the Branson-Hollister Rotary club donated over 700 books to the kids which were delivered live via helicopter by the United States Marines Corp. Once the helicopter touched ground, the kids were invited to climb inside and tour the massive flying machine.
April 25, 2008
Hey bidder bidder! Gerken %26 Associates donated auctioneering services to the annual Tri-Lakes Board of Realtors RPAC (Realtor Political Action Committee) auction held last Thursday night. Duane Gerken, auctioneer colonel for the firm, was the auctioneer for the event, and along with his staff, helped raise over $13,000. Money raised at this event goes towards legislation in helping individuals protect private property rights.
April 13, 2008
Gerken %26 Associates office expansion and remodel has been nominated for one of "417 Magazine" best local interior remodels. Since then, the publication has been sending interior judges by to walk through and evaluate our space. Stay tuned for the winning results. In the meantime, if you haven't seen our office in awhile, feel free to stop by and visit us.
April 2, 2008
Gerken %26 Associates attended the Butterfly Brunch at The Butterfly Palace %26 Rainforest Adventure hosted by Christian Action Ministries. Gerken %26 Associates is a corporate sponsor for the fundraiser and a local artist painted our large ceramic butterfly, which is one of 58 butterflies to be displayed in a community wide art exhibit. Please be sure to stop by our office to see this beautiful piece of art!
March 21, 2008
Gerken %26 Associates was a corporate sponsor of the NAIA Basketball Tournament held on the campus of College of the Ozarks over the last two weeks. In total, 32 teams participated from around the country. After six days of play, on game 31, Oregon Institute of Technology (OIT) from Klamath Falls, Oregon emerged as the tournament champions to take home the 2008 pennant. OIT also achieved the tournament championship in 2004. The tournament was deemed a huge success by NAIA officials and has been held at the College of the Ozarks in Branson since 2000.
March 14, 2008
Gerken %26 Associates attended the 61st Branson Chamber "Black Tie Dinner", a yearly gathering of community business members. During the event, recognition was paid to Branson's top leaders, including the presentation of the Pioneer, Ambassador, Beautification and Community Spirit Awards. During the event, Charlie Gerken was recognized for his continuing role as a Branson Chamber Ambassador.
February 25, 2008
The Tri-Lakes Board of Realtors appointed Harriet Leenerts as an advisor to the Community Foundation of the Ozarks. In this capacity she will help decide what charities the foundation will support. The Tri-Lakes Board of Realtors has contributed over $10,000 to this outreach program and will continue to support several other charity foundations in the community as well.
February 12, 2008
The team that plays together stays together! Gerken %26 Associates has again formed a bowling team to participate in this year's Big Brothers / Big Sisters 8th Annual Bowl For Kids' Sake held at the Millennium Bowling %26 Entertainment facility in Branson West. By building relationships with other family-oriented, kid loving organizations, BBBSB continues to strive for the mission of serving kids and their families not only by increasing the numbers served, but by increasing the quality of its programs.
January 28, 2008
Charlie Gerken served as a "Youth of the Year" judge for the Boys %26 Girls Club which is the highest recognition bestowed upon a teen member. Over the course of a year, Club members are recognized monthly at each facility based upon character, participation and grades. In January, each facility chooses the top 3 candidates to participate in a public speaking and interview competition with community leaders. Ultimately, the competition is multi-tiered and results in Boys %26 Girls Clubs of America naming one "Youth of the Year" to represent the Club across the country for a year.
January 20, 2008
Harriet Leenerts, Duane, Kay and Jeff Gerken attended the Missouri Association of Realtors annual Capitol Conference and Board of Director meetings in Jefferson City. Over 420 Realtors arrived at the Capitol to meet with Representatives and Senators to discuss legislation affecting real estate. Committee meetings attended included Legislative Policy %26 Regulatory, Cultural Diversity, The Center of Education %26 Private Enterprise and the Economic Development Council.
January 11, 2008
Gerken %26 Associates were invited as sponsors to the Butterflies of Branson press conference for the delivery and unveiling of the event's large ceramic butterflies. Sponsors were invited to meet the artists who will be painting the 58 butterflies for the first annual community wide art exhibit. Afterwards, all the butterflies will be auctioned off at The Butterfly Ball %26 Benefit Auction held later this year in October. Christian Action Ministries is holding the fundraising event in order to raise money for their organization.
January 3, 2008
We're honored to start another New Year with Harriet Leenerts. Harriet is a Broker who has been with the Gerken %26 Associates sales' team for over 30 years! She has an admired history of dedication to client satisfaction and served as President of the Tri-Lakes Board of Realtors. Through good markets and bad, Harriet has been through it all. The national news may claim it's a rough time to be in real estate, but not in our office. Things are rockin' along as normal. Happy New Years to all!
December 20, 2007
Gerken %26 Associates held their annual Christmas party at Tony Z’s fine Italian dining in Branson. After the meal, the Fun Committee organized a sales game in which agents, staff and spouses drew for gift prizes and then promoted them to the rest of the group. It was a fun exercise in quick-thinking marketing skills. Plus a lot of laughs! We as a firm feel very fortunate for the team we have, clients we represent and city we live in.
December 6, 2007
Way to go Charlie Gerken! Charlie was recently elected to serve on the Branson-Hollister Rotary Club Board of Directors. A die-hard Rotarian, Charlie has served in numerous roles for the club's community involvement, including volunteer work for the Women's Crisis Center, Salvation Army and Community Day of Caring. In addition, Charlie has served as the Rotary float driver for the past two years in Branson's annual Adoration Christmas Parade.
December 1, 2007
Gerken %26 Associates attended the Tri-Lakes Board of Realtors annual banquet held downtown at the new Hilton convention center. Everyone in the firm had plenty to celebrate as recognition was given to team members Harriet Leenerts, Kay and Duane Gerken for their roles in serving as past presidents of the board. Jeff Gerken was recognized and sworn in as newly elected 2008 Tri-Lakes Board of Director. Also that night, Janetta Cole was sworn in as the new president for the Tri-Lakes Board of Realtors. Congratulations to all!
November 21, 2007
Gerken %26 Associates donated their time in revolving shifts to CAM (Christian Action Ministries) for the 19th Annual Holiday Food Harvest. The annual food drive was set up at the Jubilee Foods grocery store located on Highway 76 to help meet the needs of our area citizens. Several local business organizations volunteered to help deliver the donated food and items. By the end of the day, over four truck loads were donated from our efforts, making it the most successful food drive ever!
November 17, 2007
Harriet Leenerts and Jeff Gerken attended the 2007 Missouri Association of Realtors (MAR) Leadership Conference for local board leaders held at the University Plaza Convention Center in Springfield, Missouri. The Conference is held every year to educate current and incoming Board leaders. Those attending the conference heard from such notable speakers as Jim Asbury, 2008 MAR President, Dick Gaylord, 2008 NAR President and Dennis McClelland, MAR CEO and Executive Vice President.
November 14, 2007
Congratulations Jeff Gerken! Jeff was recently elected to serve on the 2008 Tri-Lakes Board of Realtors Board of Directors. In addition, Jeff will lead the 2008 Education Committee Chair of which he has served for two years. Both the founding firm's partners, Kay and Duane Gerken have served individual terms for the Tri-Lakes Board of Realtors Board of Directors as well.
November 8, 2007
Jeff and Charlie Gerken were recognized and presented with the Hollister Area Chamber of Commerce Member of the Month Award for Gerken %26 Associates assistance and contribution to the Hollister community. The certificate was presented to the boys at the monthly Hollister Chamber luncheon held at the Keeter Center at College of the Ozarks. Jeff Gerken currently serves as a Hollister Chamber Ambassador and chair of the Membership Committee. Charlie Gerken is a Branson Chamber Ambassador and was recently elected to a 3-year term on the Board of Directors.
October 29, 2007
Gerken %26 Associates attended Branson Mayor Raeanne Presley’s 50th birthday party held at Catina Laredo Mexican Restaurant, located downtown at the Branson Landing. Friends and colleagues of Mayor Presley donated over 50 toys as a way to collect one for every birthday she has celebrated. All of the toys collected were donated to charitable organizations in the Tri-Lakes area who will distribute them to children in need this Christmas.
October 26, 2007
Kay Gerken has been elected to serve on the Board of Directors of the College of the Ozarks Associates. Kay previously served a six year term in which she was elected President for three consecutive years. The College of the Ozarks Associates mission is to raise awareness of the College as well as funds that enable the College to provide equipment and opportunities for students not covered by the College budget.
October 17, 2007
Gerken %26 Associates had a phenomenal turnout for our ribbon cutting and open house celebration. Over 200 friends of the firm showed up to celebrate including the mayor. Thank you all for attending and your continued support.
October 16, 2007
Thirty-two years is a long time to be in one place! Gerken %26 Associates is celebrating the completion of our office renovation as we honor our past and move towards the future. Tomorrow, we will be hosting a ribbon cutting and open house celebration from 4 pm to 6 pm. Hors d'oeuvres, refreshments and good times will be provided. Please RSVP Carol if you plan to attend. We look forward to seeing you there!
October 12, 2007
Gerken %26 Associates is proud to welcome Bob Warlick to our commercial real estate division. Active in the community, Bob has served in numerous civic and municipal organizations including the Branson Board of Aldermen, City of Branson Planning and Zoning Committee, City of Branson Budget Committee, Branson Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce Legislative Committee and Downtown Branson Main Street Association President just to name a few. Currently Bob is a member of the Board of Directors of Mountain Country Homes of Hope (formerly Habitat for Humanity).
October 9, 2007
Welcome aboard Eugene Kartavtsev! Gerken %26 Associates invited Eugene on as a residential sales agent. Bilingual in both English and Russian, Eugene brings to the firm his love for all-things real estate and a great attitude towards client satisfaction - just the type of agents Gerken %26 Associates is known for. If you have interest in joining our growing firm, please visit the career page and let us hear from you.
October 5, 2007
Gerken %26 Associates is a booth vendor at the first-ever Tri-Lakes Remodeling Show held in the new convention center in downtown Branson. The weekend-long event is hosted by The Vacation Channel and Tanco Lumber Company in Forsyth. More than 150 vendors will attend the show offering helpful hints to thousands of visitors on just about any aspect of owning a home. Norma Vally, also known as the "Toolbelt Diva", star of the Emmy-nominated Discovery Home Channel show, "Tool Belt Diva" will be a featured guest and conduct two "Savvy Storage Solutions" workshops on Saturday. Don’t miss it!
October 5, 2007
Gerken %26 Associates is a booth vendor at the first-ever Tri-Lakes Remodeling Show held in the new convention center in downtown Branson. The weekend-long event is hosted by The Vacation Channel and Tanco Lumber Company in Forsyth. More than 150 vendors will attend the show offering helpful hints to thousands of visitors on just about any aspect of owning a home. Norma Vally, also known as the "Toolbelt Diva", star of the Emmy-nominated Discovery Home Channel show, "Tool Belt Diva" will be a featured guest and conduct two "Savvy Storage Solutions" workshops on Saturday. Don’t miss it!
September 23, 2007
Hollister's 9th Annual Grape and Fall Festival is just about here and Gerken %26 Associates will be a booth vendor. Held at Hollister’s historic Downing Street, the event attracts thousands of visitors for a grape-stomping good time! Festival features include the Grape Stomp, Basketball Tournament, Children’s Activity Tent, Entertainment Stage featuring live entertainment from area stars, Ozarks arts and crafts booths, Food Court and other area vendors that help keep admission to the annual event free.
September 19, 2007
Gerken %26 Associates is a proud sponsor and supporter of the 50th Annual "Ham and Bean" Dinner held at the Branson United Methodist Church. Every year the church puts on a dinner and lunch fundraiser to help support the church’s growth and sustainability. We’re thankful to be able to support the church’s endeavors.
September 13, 2007
Duane Gerken introduced Lieutenant Governor Peter Kinder, key speaker for the "VIP Breakfast in Branson" held today at the Hilton Convention Center and Hotel. Kinder is the major force behind bringing the Tour of Missouri to our state and the reception was given in honor of him and the cycling event that generated over 30,000 spectators and 112 world-class cyclists to race in Branson.
September 10, 2007
Carol Turpin has been promoted to Office Administrator for Gerken %26 Associates. Carol joined the firm a year ago as an Administrative Assistant and has since taken a more proactive role in managing the daily office operations, assisting agents and maintaining customer relations. Congratulations Carol! We're fortunate to have you on our team.
September 6, 2007
Gerken %26 Associates participated in a miniature golf tournament fundraiser for the Missouri Association of Realtors' non-profit Center for Education %26 Private Enterprise. The Center provides scholarships for high school students to attend Missouri Business Week at Missouri University. The Center also provides training materials to teachers for the "It's Your Move" program, which covers the home buying process, terminology and other valuable information related to housing. Gerken %26 Associates supported the fundraiser with a company team of 12 golfers and signed up an additional 7 golfers from Liberty Bank. Over 40 golfers participated in the local fundraising event.
August 29, 2007
Charlie Gerken was a featured lecturer in this year's Branson Area Chamber Business Expo. Charlie's Internet Marketing workshop titled, "Online or the Breadline" tackled key objectives in how businesses can better track their online marketing dollars, attract and retain web visitors. The workshop was held at the Chateau on the Lake Hotel and was free to all Branson Area Chamber members.
August 27, 2007
Gerken %26 Associates is a corporate sponsor and participant in this year’s Branson Area Business Expo and Small Business of the Year Awards Dinner. The expo will be held tomorrow between noon and 5 p.m. at the luxurious Chateau on the Lake Hotel. It will feature over 40 Branson businesses and is free to the public. The private Awards dinner will start at 5:30 p.m. Please stop by our booth and see us!
August 23, 2007
Clients of Gerken %26 Associates' have a lot to look forward to. Jeff and Charlie Gerken, along with other top-producing Realtors across the country attended the highly-anticipated Hobbs/Herder two-day MegaMarketing Seminar held at the Chateau on the Lake Hotel in Branson. The Orange County, California-based, real estate advertising agency taught attendees how to take marketing efforts to the next level with high-impact advertising, public relations and integrated marketing business solutions of the future.
August 12, 2007
Gerken %26 Associates is a corporate sponsor of The Jeff Julian Golf Classic which is part of Driving 4 Life, a national fundraising campaign sustained by community golf events and major gifts from corporations. Most Driving 4 Life events are organized by ALS patients, their families, friends, and other members of the ALS community. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), commonly known as Lou Gehrig's disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that attacks motor neurons in the brain (upper motor neurons) and spinal cord (lower motor neurons). The Julian Tournament will be held September 16th at Ledgestone Country Club and Championship Golf Course in Branson.
July 17, 2007
Gerken %26 Associates attended the highly anticipated Branson Airport groundbreaking ceremony today. The airport will be the first privately funded commercial airport in the United States. At a cost of over $140 million, the airport will be located inside the Branson Creek development, just south of Branson on Highway 65. It is scheduled to open in Spring 2009.
July 13, 2007
Charlie Gerken recently ran a successful bid for a seat on the Branson Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. Elected to represent the General Business Category and over 1,000 members, Charlie will serve a 3-year term beginning October 1st. Gerken %26 Associates has been a Branson Chamber member for over 32 years and Duane Gerken, the firm's founding broker, has also served on the Board. It is a high honor to be elected to the Chamber Board of Directors and represent professional leadership of the community. Thank you all area chamber members for your continued trust and support.
July 4, 2007
Enjoy the fireworks, hot dogs and burgers as Gerken %26 Associates Realtors is closed in honor of Independence Day. Should you need to reach any of us, you can always contact a live agent on duty via our toll free number. Most of us are available, unless we are on Table Rock Lake water skiing; then you might need to leave a voicemail.
June 19, 2007
Harriet Leenerts, Duane %26 Kay Gerken have been very, very busy. All three attended the Missouri Association of Realtors State Directors' meeting in Kansas City, Missouri to conduct public policy, professional development and business services. While there, Duane %26 Kay attended the Women's Council of Realtors fundraiser fashion show, the Realtor of the Year selection committee and the Economic Development Council, in which they voted for implementation of a statewide commercial information exchange (CIE). As a member, Harriet Leenerts attended the Cultural Diversity Committee which handles educational opportunities for Missouri Realtors in fair housing and cultural diversity.
May 24, 2007
Gerken %26 Associates Realtors donated auctioneering services to the annual Tri-Lakes Board of Realtors RPAC (Realtor Political Action Committee) auction. Duane Gerken, auctioneer colonel for the firm, was the sole auctioneer for the event, and along with his staff, set a record amount of over $27,000 raised. Money raised at this event goes towards helping individuals protect private property rights.
May 5, 2007
Gerken %26 Associates recently completed renovations on our office expansion. Butler, Rosenbury %26 Partners served as lead architect and Laura Daly was the interior designer. The office, which has housed the firm for 32 years, is now four times the original size! With lots of new space, fun colors and work systems in place, we're excited to show the place off! Please stay tuned as we'll be hosting a ribbon cutting and open house soon.
May 3, 2007
Gerken %26 Associates, city officials and Tri-Lakes area businesses celebrated the National Day of Prayer at the 6th Annual Mayor's Prayer Breakfast. A record crowd of 586 filled the Convention Hall at Celebration City sponsored by the Branson Christian Businessmen's Committee. Paul Teas, founder of Camp Barnabas, was the featured speaker, giving personal accounts of his faith. The Christian summer camp allows children with special needs the opportunity to get a summer camp experience. Each summer, Camp Barnabas hosts more than 1,000 campers during nine, one-week terms.
April 27, 2007
The Tri-Lakes Board of Realtors held their annual awards dinner last night. At the event, recognition was given to all four Gerken family members for their continued service to the board as each was conducted into the 2006 Honor Society. In addition, all four Gerken family members were paid tribute for their generous donations to RPAC (Realtor Political Action Committee), a group which raises funds for those in political office whom are supportive of protecting private property rights. Kay Gerken was also recognized for spearheading this year's Tri-Lakes Board of Realtors Leadership class.
April 17, 2007
Harriet Leenerts, Kay and Duane Gerken attended the Missouri Association of Realtors (MAR) quarterly Business Conference and Directors' meeting held at the Ritz Hotel in St. Louis. All three serve as MAR State Directors representing the Tri-Lakes Board of Realtors. Duane and Kay are members of MAR's Economic Development Council and helped with plans being formulated for a statewide Commercial Information Exchange (CIE). This will allow Realtors as well as the State of Missouri's Department of Economic Development (MODED) to access the availability of properties for sale and lease in Missouri. As a member of the Cultural Diversity Committee, Harriet helped make funds available for 19 members of MAR to go to Georgia to help build a house for Habitat for Humanity.
March 24, 2007
Kay Gerken was nominated by the Tri-Lakes Board of Realtors Board of Directors for the Missouri Association of Realtors “2007 Realtor of the Year Award”. The Board is submitting Kay's nomination for her outstanding dedication and service to both the local and state Realtor Associations. The Realtor of the Year Award is selected by past recipients from around the state of Missouri. Kay's husband and founding firm partner, Duane Gerken, was the recipient of this prestigious award in 2001.
March 20, 2007
Gerken %26 Associates is proud to be a corporate sponsor of the 45th Annual Spaghetti Lunch %26 Dinner of Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church in Branson. The yearly tradition not only helps support the financial needs of the church, but also serves as an outreach to the community. The first Spaghetti dinner was held in 1962 and served approximately 400 people. Today's lunch and dinner event is expected to serve over 1,600 meals. That's a lot of spaghetti!
March 10, 2007
Charlie Gerken, e-PRO, GRI was invited to speak to the 2007 Branson Tri-Lakes Chamber Leadership class today at Citizens Union Bank. Charlie's presentation was entitled, "Internet Marketing: Online or the Breadline". Topics ranged form basic Internet vocabulary to an extensive review of website statistic platforms and how to manage them. The Branson Chamber Leadership class is a select group of people from local businesses who learn about Branson's evolution, environment, community service, marketing, government and future economic development plans. Charlie is a 2006 graduate and his brother, Jeff Gerken is a 2004 graduate.
February 26, 2007
The team that plays together stays together! Gerken %26 Associates formed a bowling team and donated $350 to the Big Brothers Big Sisters 7th Annual Bowl For Kids' Sake held at the Millennium Bowling %26 Entertainment facility in Branson West. In its seventh year serving Stone and Taney counties, BBBSB has served over 200 kids with the expectations of serving 300 kids by the end of 2007. By building relationships with other family-oriented, kid loving organizations, BBBSB continues to strive for the mission of serving kids and their families not only by increasing the numbers served, but by increasing the quality of its programs.
February 16, 2007
Gerken %26 Associates Realtors attended and helped sponsor the 60th Branson Chamber "Black Tie Dinner", a yearly gathering of community business members. During the event, recognition was paid to Branson's top leaders, including the presentation of the Pioneer, Ambassador, Beautification and Community Spirit Awards. During the event, Charlie Gerken was recognized for his continuing role as a Branson Chamber Ambassador.
February 9, 2007
All of the Realtors at Gerken %26 Associates participated in the fourth annual Tri-Lakes Board of Realtors "Have A Heart" Food Drive. The area Food Drive goes to support local food pantries, including the Salvation Army, OACAC, Christian Associates of Table Rock Lake, and Christian Action Ministries. If you're interested in donating money or food items, the office of Gerken %26 Associates serves as an official drop off location and will deliver cash and food items to the pantries for you.
January 24, 2007
Duane and Kay Gerken attended the Capitol Conference in Jefferson City along with over 400 Missouri Realtors. The Realtors spent time meeting with their legislators encouraging them to oppose an increase in recording fees on real estate transactions. While at these meetings, Kay led 10 members of the Tri-Lakes Board of Realtors Leadership Academy through the Capitol Conference and meetings. Kay explained and oriented the Academy members of the purpose of the Conference and the influence Realtors have in the legislative process. Duane and Kay were honored at a special dinner for high dollar donors to the Realtors Political Action Committee. Also, as Past Presidents of the Missouri Association of Realtors, Duane and Kay participated in the ribbon cutting for the remodeled offices of the Association located in Columbia, Missouri.
January 15, 2007
Joni Glessner diligently donated her their time as a volunteer to help the Missouri National Guard, emergency personnel, church groups, and Springfield citizens, chop, saw and dig their way out of the largest natural disaster Missouri has had to deal with. Just 40 miles north of Branson, Springfield has been paralyzed by massive power outages, food, gasoline and equipment shortages caused by a brutal ice storm.
January 3, 2007
Gerken %26 Associates has flipped sides! We recently located to our new office addition while the other half of our building is being remodeled. Last year, Gerken %26 Associates took the once popular Bridal Shop next door and knocked out two separate walkways to connect the two spaces. Located on West Highway 76, in the Branson Heights Shopping Center, Gerken %26 Associates expansion will be four times its original size. To date, the office has been in the same location for over 32 years!
December 25, 2006
Santa Claus came by and visited Gerken %26 Associates! Since we were such good Realtors this year, he brought us three large DELL flat screen TV's for our new conference rooms! No more huddling clients around laptops. From now on, all our clients and customers can comfortably search for their future home up on the big screens.
December 17, 2006
An American tradition since 1891, Jeff and Charlie Gerken have been out serving in the local Salvation Army Red Kettle program and together, they've raised a considerable amount! The Salvation Army provides residential services, disaster relief, holiday assistance, medical facilities, and family and career counseling. More than 30 million people a year are aided by The Salvation Army. If you would like to become a volunteer, please contact Gerken %26 Associates for further information.
December 14, 2006
Charlie Gerken, Broker / Partner of Gerken %26 Associates, presented a check in the amount of $1,000 to Joan Westfall, Director of C.A.M. (Christian Action Ministries). C.A.M. represents an alliance between several area churches, business leaders and local residents to help those in need in emergency situations. C.A.M. relies solely on the generosity of members in the community to enable their services to continue. Gerken %26 Associates, a proud supporter of C.A.M. since its 1985 inception, has contributed over $15,000 in donations.
December 11, 2006
Last weekend, the Hollister Chamber held its annual WinterFest Chamber banquet. As a Hollister Chamber of Commerce Ambassador, Jeff Gerken was honored to present the Hollister Chamber Volunteer of the Year Award to Pam Druffel of Ozark Mountain Bank. Ozark Mountain Bank is a shining example how businesses are willing to contribute and support the community. Congratulations Pam!
December 5, 2006
Charlie Gerken was selected for the Rookie of the Year Award by the Tri-Lakes Board of Realtors for his outstanding achievements for 2006! The award was given at the Annual Installation Banquet held at the Chateau on the Lake. Duane Gerken (1985 President), Kay Gerken (1991 President) and Harriet Leenerts (2003 President) were also given special recognition for their past leadership and continuing role in the Tri-Lakes Board of Realtors.
November 22, 2006
Gerken %26 Associates donated their time in revolving shifts to CAM (Christian Action Ministries) for the 18th Annual Holiday Food Harvest. The annual food drive was set up at the Jubilee Foods grocery store located on Highway 76 to help meet the needs for area citizens in need. Dick Clark's American Bandstand theater loaned a classic car to help deliver the donated food and items. By the end of the day, over three truck loads were donated, making it the most successful food drive ever!
November 6, 2006
Congratulations to the Gerken brothers! Both Charlie and Jeff Gerken are now GRI (Graduate Realtor Institute) Designees! GRI is a designation awarded by the Missouri Association of Realtors to National Association of Realtors members who have successfully completed the required 12, eight-hour courses of advanced lectures and exams held throughout the state of Missouri. In total, there are six agents at Gerken %26 Associates who have earned their GRI designations. Quite impressive!
October 30, 2006
Charlie and Jeff Gerken completed and passed the GRI-404: New Home Construction course and exam held in Branson. The eight-hour course focused on architectural design, site orientation, quality construction and ways in which technology is changing the markets. In addition, special attention was given to serving today's builders and solving new home buyer needs.
October 21, 2006
Harriet Leenerts, Duane and Kay Gerken, attended the Missouri Association of Realtors® (MAR) annual convention in Lake Ozark, Missouri with over 600 registrants. Duane and Kay attended the MAR Past Presidents' recognition banquet as well as the installation of the 2007 officers. Duane and Harriet attended the nationally recognized commercial speaker, Tom Lundstedt's presentations and Kay was a featured speaker at the MAR Leadership Academy. Duane and Kay also attended nationally recognized speaker, John Hamilton's seminar on Negotiations. The four day conference is an event-packed experience that Gerken %26 Associates attend every year to stay abreast of industry changes.
September 18, 2006
Gerken %26 Associates is proud to announce yet another addition to our firm! Carol Turpin recently joined as an Administrative Assistant to help with the day-to-day office needs. She brings a strong background in customer relations, a love for people and a “can do” attitude. We're excited and fortunate to have her with us.
September 14, 2006
Jeff %26 Charlie Gerken passed the GRI-403 course and exam held in Branson. The 8 hour course focused on current residential financing information and practical calculator skills to assist both buyers and sellers in the marketplace. Financing fundamentals of Conventional, FHA, VA, ARMs and current innovative financing techniques were reviewed and discussed as well. Jeff %26 Charlie have completed over 100 hours towards their GRI (Graduate Realtor Institute) designation and are due to graduate next month!
August 28, 2006
Charlie Gerken recently completed and passed the GRI-409 course and exam in Jefferson City. The course focused on Business planning and positioning for professional real estate agents. Topics included written business plans, productivity, organizational structures, budgeting, and the latest in technology and transaction management.
August 16, 2006
Duane and Kay Gerken, the firm's founding partners and brokers, celebrated their 37th wedding anniversary today. Like their commitment to their marriage, their commitment to the firm is proof to what teamwork and humor can achieve.
July 22, 2006
Jeff Gerken is now a certified Internet professional, having completed the e-PRO%26%23174; training program and exam for real estate professionals, endorsed by the National Association of Realtors. An e-PRO%26%23174; agent streamlines the entire transaction, from showing to closing through a number of online tools and advanced software. Currently, there are fewer than 10 agents in the Tri-Lakes Board of Realtors whom are e-PRO%26%23174; certified.
July 13, 2006
One more done! Jeff and Charlie Gerken are well on their way to earning their GRI (Graduate Realtor Institute) designations. Both attended and passed the GRI-405 course and exam today in St. Louis. The course examined the role of seller's agents, buyer's agents and transaction brokers in Missouri real estate practice. Topics included creation of agency or non-agency, duties of an agent and transaction brokerage, dual agency and designated agency.
July 4, 2006
Gerken %26 Associates, along with a new home owner in Rockaway Beach, helped support the Annual Rockaway Beach Fireworks Spectacular. The downtown event featured live entertainment, area food, crafts, and games. The fireworks show started at 9:50 pm and featured a spectacular finale never seen before! Each year, the fine folks of Rockaway Beach go above and beyond to outdo last year's event. This year was no exception!
July 1, 2006
Charlie and Jeff Gerken recently drove to St. Charles, Missouri to attend the GRI-408 course. Both passed the exam which drew parallels between license law and the Code of Ethics. It also covered competence in different real estate disciplines, including non-interference with agency relationships and arbitration of disputes.
June 21, 2006
Harriet Leenerts, Kay and Duane Gerken attended meetings in St. Charles, Missouri, along with other fellow Realtor leaders who serve as Directors for the Missouri Association of Realtors (MAR). Key approval was given for $25,000, to co-sponsor with the Missouri Chamber of Commerce, the 2006 Governor’s Conference on Economic Development. Created in 1979, this statewide, not-for-profit gathering of economic professionals and community leaders provides a unified voice for economic development in Missouri. The Conference will be held in St. Louis on September 25-27.
June 13, 2006
Jeff and Charlie Gerken just got back from a 2-day stay in Joplin, Missouri after completing and passing both the GRI-406 and 407 course exams. GRI-406 addressed issues in sale contracts including enforceability, default remedies, multiple offers, closing and possession. GRI-407 consisted of law and risk management, covering an array of issues and solutions. Topics included advertising, fair housing conduct, antitrust, fraud, negligence, inspections, and environmental issues.
June 6, 2006
Every year the Branson Tri-Lakes Realtor Political Action Committee (RPAC) holds an auction to help raise money for candidate campaigns that support property rights. Donations come from voluntary contributions rather than member's dues treasury. Charlie and Duane Gerken helped by providing free auctioneering services. By the end of the night, the event raised a total of $19,440, up $4,379 from 2005's auction! This money will go towards improving federal mortgage programs, allowing more families to join the ranks of homeownership while eliminating burdensome regulations inhibiting healthy real estate markets.
May 24, 2006
Charlie %26 Jeff Gerken were both invited on a Realtor hard hat tour of the new Branson Landing development. During the tour, they were given an opportunity to view several of the new luxurious condos the $420 million complex has to offer. Also while on tour, special attention was given to construction facts and statistics as well as estimated completion dates. If you have questions about the new Branson Landing or would like to view its gorgeous condos, please contact Jeff or Charlie Gerken.
May 19, 2006
Lights! Camera! Action! Charlie Gerken was featured on The Vacation Channel regarding the Branson Chamber’s “2006 Leadership Program”. The 10 minute interview with Charlie covered how the Leadership program works, highlights of his experience and what was gained from it. The interview will be running on the Vacation Channel throughout the end of this month.
May 16, 2006
Every year in May, Duane and Kay Gerken attend the Mid-Year National Association of Realtors meetings in Washington, D.C. This year approximately 9,000 Realtors attended from around the country to meet their Senators and Representatives. Kay and Duane Gerken met with Representative JoAnn Emerson and Senator Jim Talent along with 30 other Realtors from Missouri. Senator Talent and Representative Emerson were both supportive of expanding the terms for FHA loans to be more competitive with the conventional loan programs and increase loan terms from 30 years to 40 years to enable more Americans the opportunity to be homeowners. In Missouri we are fortunate that Senators, Bond and Talent, and the majority of our Representatives are supportive of Realtor issues to protect the rights of property ownership.
May 5, 2006
Charlie Gerken completed and passed the GRI-402 course and exam given through the Missouri Association of Realtors. The eight-hour course held in Joplin, Missouri addressed property marketing issues and efficient advertising resources. The course also touched on Realtor safety and special needs of diverse clients. Charlie has completed over 40 hours towards his GRI designation. Realtors with the GRI designation are highly trained to better serve and protect their clients in today's ever-changing real estate industry.
April 26, 2006
Schools out for summer! Charlie Gerken is a graduate of the Branson Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce's 2006 Leadership program. Having completed the four-month course, he is thoroughly familiar with Branson's evolution, environment, community service, marketing, government and future economic development plans. His brother, Jeff Gerken, is a 2004 Chamber Leadership graduate.
April 19, 2006
You spoke and we listened! With thousands of people viewing this website all over the world, we get a lot of good feedback regarding its performance. Therefore, we're proud to roll out Gerken %26 Associates' website Version 2.0. Jacked-up with twice the speed, the Flash pre-loader has been removed and navigation is even friendlier. If you see something we could improve on, please let us know.
April 13, 2006
Charlie Gerken is now a certified Internet professional, having completed the e-PRO%26%23174; training program and exam for real estate professionals, endorsed by the National Association of Realtors. An e-PRO%26%23174; agent streamlines the entire transaction, from showing to closing through a number of online tools and advanced software. Currently, there are fewer than 10 agents in the Tri-Lakes Board of Realtors whom are e-PRO%26%23174; certified.
April 4, 2006
Jeff and Charlie Gerken recently passed the GRI-411 course and exam: “Homeowners Tax Answers”. The course enables Brokers and Realtors to master residential and commercial tax rules on all types of properties - from primary residences to rental properties. The boys also passed the GRI-412 course and exam: “Profit from Investment Property” which covers how to analyze investment real estate and determine when it's time to sell.
March 17, 2006
Make that one more Broker! After many long nights and wasted weekends studying, Jeff Gerken passed the National and State Missouri Real Estate exams to become Gerken %26 Associates’ fifth Broker.
March 5, 2006
Charlie and Jeff Gerken both passed the e-GRI Advanced course and exam. The course exposes agents to advanced concepts of Internet marketing, new web technology, security issues and a host of other topics. Special attention is given to customer relationship management and how to interact through effective web tools.
February 22, 2006
Gerken %26 Associates attended the annual Branson Chamber “Black Tie Dinner”, a yearly gathering of community business members. During the event, recognition was paid to Branson’s top leaders, including the presentation of the Pioneer, Ambassador, Beautification and Community Spirit Awards. Duane Gerken received an appreciation award for his role as a 2005 Chamber Board member and Charlie Gerken was recognized for his continuing role as a Chamber Ambassador.
January 24, 2006
Located in the same area for over 31 years, Gerken %26 Associates is currently drawing up blueprints to expand operations to four times its original size. Together with an architect and interior designer, we're working hard on the new office floor space design and are excited to get our new digs up. Please check back for details on the expansion, future Ribbon Cutting and Open House celebration. We hope to see you there!
December 11, 2005
Happy holidays to all! Gerken %26 Associates held their annual holiday party yesterday. Every year the firm gets together to celebrate and thank our staff. We as a firm feel very fortunate for the team we have, clients we represent and city we live in.
December 7, 2005
Catch a wave! The first Gerken %26 Associates website has been put to pasture and this new website launched. After several extensive months of research and design, we finally got this baby up and running. We hope you enjoy surfing it.Thank you for choosing this website to research, buy or sell real estate. This is a great place to begin your real estate ambitions!
Here you'll find valuable tools to help sell your home or find a new one. Continuously updated with new area listings, useful information and gobs of resources, we hope you find value in using this website.
Be sure to click the "tip agents" on the lower left corner for neat facts regarding real estate. Or click the sun on the home page for current weather in Branson. If you get lost, simply click on the Gerken %26 Associates logo in the top left corner to return home. This website is fun and easy to use!
If you have questions or would like further information or assistance, please visit the contact area and select the best way for us to get in touch. We're available and hope to hear from you!Gerken %26 Associates is a diverse team of real estate agents and professionals, each offering clients a unique range of specializations and interests. Pick your match!Hop on board! Gerken %26 Associates is a great place to boost your real estate career! We're currently on the look-out for talented, entry-level and experienced agents to join our sales team.
Immediate openings in both residential and commercial divisions are now available. We also offer career opportunities for administrative professionals as well as exciting internship programs.
Interested applicants should complete and submit the question form below. Or if you prefer, you can print out the form and fax or mail it at your convenience. Either way, we look forward to hearing from you!Gerken %26 Associates is open 7 days a week. No matter what time or day you call us, you'll always reach a live agent on duty.
Be sure to ask for free real estate magazines and a DVD highlighting the local area.
Phone: 417.334.1892
Toll Free: 1.800.897.4016
Fax: 417.334.1898
Gerken %26 Associates
1157 West Highway 76
Branson, Missouri 65616
Office Hours
Monday - Friday: 8:30 am to 5:30 pm
Saturday: 9 am to 5 pm
Sunday: By AppointmentJean Cargile
e-PRO
Realtor%26%23174;Jean Cargile, e-PRO
REALTOR%26%23174;
Jean moved to the Tri-Lakes area after spending numerous fun-filled vacations in Branson. Prior to beginning her real estate career, she was an accountant for Chrysler and a sales manager within the insurance and financial industries for over 30 years.
During those years, Jean also assisted a veterinarian in emergencies and surgeries as well raising dogs and horses of her own.
Already experienced in real estate and licensed in Iowa, Jean decided to utilize her love for real estate by obtaining a Missouri license. Looking to join a professional agency with longevity, Jean placed her license with Gerken %26 Associates Realtors to provide expertise and results that clients seek and expect.
A certified Internet professional, Jean has completed the e-PRO training program and exam for real estate professionals, endorsed by the National Association of Realtors. An e-PRO agent streamlines the entire transaction, from showing to closing, through a number of online tools and advanced software.
Committed to her career, Jean has completed over 60 hours towards a GRI (Graduate REALTOR Institute) designation. GRI is a designation awarded by the Missouri Association of Realtors to National Association of Realtors members who have successfully completed the required courses of advanced lectures and exams held throughout the state of Missouri. Currently, she has completed courses in new home construction, Internet marketing, taxation and home financing.
A Forsyth local, Jean has a keen interest in the rapid growth the city is currently experiencing and isthe firm's chamber representative in Forsyth by serving on the Board of Directors. Supportive of small business and economic development, Gerken %26 Associates has always been active chamber members and continue to serve key roles in the local organizations, including the Branson and Hollister Chambers of Commerce.
Contact
Office: 417.334.1892 ext. 151
Toll Free: 1.800.897.4016
Mobile: 417.294.0871
Fax: 417.334.1898
E-mail: Jean@GerkenandAssociates.com
Website: BransonLakeSide.net
General Interests
Jean is a commercial member of Escapees, a group of fun-loving people who enjoy new sights, new friendships and their RV’s. She also enjoys Horseback riding and spending time with her Schipperke dogs.
Music
Country and Western.
Movies
On Golden Pond, Dad and The Other Sister.
Books
Favorite authors include Catherine Anderson, Fern Michaels and Mary Lynn Baxter.Jeff Gerken
e-PRO, GRI, SRS
Broker / PartnerJeff Gerken, e-PRO, GRI, SRS
Broker / Partner
A Branson native and third generation Realtor, Jeff graduated from Branson High School and attended Missouri State University in Springfield where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Entertainment Management.
After graduation, he put this degree to work at Dolly Parton's Dixie Stampede in Branson where he was Merchandise Manager for over three years. His responsibilities included inventory tracking, ordering, concession and staff management.
Jeff has a Missouri Salesperson and Broker’s license and is a partner of the firm. Aside from selling commercial and residential real estate, his responsibilities include sales management, training and accounting.
Committed to his career, Jeff is a GRI (Graduate Realtor Institute) Designee. GRI is a designation awarded by the Missouri Association of Realtors to National Association of Realtors members who have successfully completed the required 12, eight-hour courses of advanced lectures and exams held throughout the state of Missouri.
A certified Internet professional, he has completed the e-PRO training program and exam for real estate professionals, endorsed by the National Association of Realtors. An e-PRO agent streamlines the entire transaction, from showing to closing, through a number of online tools and advanced software.
Actively involved in the local Tri-Lakes Board of Realtors, Jeff has served on the Special Events Committee. He is currently vice chair of the Education Committee which he has served on for the past two years. This committee is responsible for planning and implementing the continuing education and professional development of the Tri-Lakes Board of Realtors members.
Jeff is an active volunteer for area service needs throughout the Branson area community for such organizations as the Salvation Army and Big Brothers / Big Sisters.
Currently, Jeff is heavily involved with the Hollister Chamber of Commerce and serves as a Chamber Ambassador. He is also the Membership Committee Chair, a position that is responsible for the membership drive which is the sole source of revenue for the Hollister Chamber.
A 2004 graduate of the Branson Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership program, Jeff is thoroughly familiar with Branson’s evolution, environment, community service, marketing, government and economic development plans.
Contact
Office: 417.334.1892 ext. 104
Toll Free: 1.800.897.4016
Mobile: 417.527.1515
Fax: 417.334.1898
E-mail: Jeff@GerkenandAssociates.com
Website: JeffGerken.com
General Interests
Water skiing, canoeing, camping, home remodeling and travel.
Music
Just about everything, especially Hip Hop and Electronica.
Movies
The Secret, What the Bleep Do We Know?!, Tombstone, Fight Club and documentaries.
Books
What to Say When You Talk to Yourself – Shad Helmstetter
Who Moved My Cheese? - Spencer Johnson
Fish - Stephen Lundin
The Richest Man in Babylon – George S. Clason
Anything by Stephen KingJoni Glessner
GRI
Realtor%26%23174;Joni Glessner, GRI
REALTOR%26%23174;
Born and raised in the Cedar Rapids area of Iowa, Joni said she couldn’t take the winters any more. She and her husband Jack moved to Branson where she could continue her real estate career and go outside everyday in the beautiful Ozark Mountain Country.
A practicing Realtor for over 25 years, Joni has been with Gerken %26 Associates for 17 of those years! She has attained her Graduate Realtor Institute (GRI) designation and her enthusiasm and sense of fun attributes to her success as a top producer year after year.
Joni loves Table Rock Lake and knows it like the back of her hand. She even shows property by boat! Her willingness to help any day, any time, makes her the Realtor and friend of many.
Contact
Office: 417.334.1892 ext. 109
Toll Free: 1.800.897.4016
Mobile: 417.335.0352
Fax: 417.334.1898
E-mail: Joni@GerkenandAssociates.com
General Interests
The lake! Boating, scuba diving, water skiing, and fishing. I love spending time with my children and their families who live nearby. Also enjoy mushroom hunting and collecting cook books and recipes, some which date back over 100 years.
Music
Born and raised on good ol' country music, I played bass in a band for 20 years. Music is my first love - after the lake of course!
Movies
While You Were Sleeping and Pretty Woman.
Books
On Wings of Eagles - Ken Follett
Anything by John GrishamHarriet Leenerts
GRI
Broker / Realtor%26%23174;Harriet Leenerts, GRI
Broker / REALTOR%26%23174;
A busy Realtor, Harriet has attained her Graduate Realtor Institute (GRI) designation and has been with Gerken %26 Associates for over 30 years!
She has served as President of the Tri-Lakes Board of Realtors and was recognized as Realtor of the year in 2004.
Harriet plays a vital role in both the residential and commercial real estate divisions of the firm. Not only that, but she's owned and operated a Lake Taneycomo resort with her husband Bob for over 25 years.
Contact
Office: 417.334.1892 ext. 107
Toll Free: 1.800.897.4016
Mobile: 417.593.4850
Fax: 417.334.1898
Email: Harriet@GerkenandAssociates.com
General Interests
Being with people, children amaze me, especially my grandchildren. Good books, good fellowship and all of the gifts God gave us through nature.
Music
Easy listening, country music, especially patriotic country music.
Movies
Miracle on 54th Street, Parenthood, Italian Job, and War of the Worlds.
Books
The Leadership Secrets of Colin Powell - Oren Harari
Your Best Life Now - Joel Olsteen
Zane Gray WesternsKay Gerken, CRB, GRI, LTG, PMN, SRS
Broker / Partner
A busy mom with two rowdy boys, Kay pursued her real estate license in 1977. Over the years, she's enhanced her real estate knowledge by receiving several real estate designations, including GRI (Graduate Realtor Institute), CRB (Certified Real Estate Brokerage Manager), LTG (Leadership Training Graduate), and PMN (Performance Management Network). Kay is also involved in the Women's Council of Realtors (WCR).
An active member in the Tri-Lakes Board of Realtors, Kay served as Board President in 1991 and received the Realtor of the Year Award in 1992.
Kay served as the 2004 President of the Missouri Association of Realtors (MAR). With over 24,000 members, MAR has an influential role with Missouri's legislators to protect private property rights. Under Kay’s leadership, MAR took a proactive commitment to create a business friendly environment in Missouri. MAR held its first Economic Development Summit in 2004 which hosted local and state government leaders, economic developers, Realtors, and business people throughout Missouri.
Besides her Realtor involvement, Kay plays an active role in the Branson Tri-Lakes community. For three years, she served as Chairman of the Board for the College of the Ozarks Associates. She has served as an Ambassador for the Branson Chamber of Commerce and regularly attends "Breakfast with the Legislators" in Jefferson City sponsored by the Springfield and Branson Chambers. Kay is a supporter of the Branson Arts Council and an active member of the Catholic Church.
Contact
Office: 417.334.1892 ext. 101
Toll Free: 1.800.897.4016
Mobile: 417.335.0271
Fax: 417.334.1898
E-mail: Kay@GerkenandAssociates.com
General Interests
Reading a good book by the fireplace in the winter or on the swim dock in the summer, time with family and friends, cruising in the Z3 with the top down, relaxing on the deck and enjoying nature.
Music
I'm a 50's and 60's rock n' roller, today's music "ain't got the same soul" as that old time rock n' roll.
Movies
Anne of Green Gables, Fiddler on the Roof and Brave Heart.
Books
Good to Great - Jim Collins
Fear Nothing - Dean Koontz
Fish - Stephen Lundin
Turning Point - Malcolm Gladwell
John Sandford's "Prey" booksKay Gerken
CRB, GRI, LTG, PMN
Broker / PartnerDuane Gerken
CIPS, CRB, GRI
Broker / PartnerDuane Gerken, CIPS, CRB, GRI
Broker / Partner
Raised in Iowa in the Dyersville "Field of Dreams" area, Duane's family moved to Phoenix, Arizona where his father started a successful real estate firm. After graduation from high school, Duane served in the U.S. Navy Seabees and upon returning from Vietnam, he and his wife Kay moved to the Branson Tri-Lakes area. With a construction background, Duane started developing subdivisions and established Gerken %26 Associates Realtors in 1975 with his wife Kay.
Over the last 32 years, Duane has furthered his real estate knowledge by attaining the Graduate Realtor Institute (GRI), Certified Real Estate Brokerage Manager (CRB) and Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS). Duane was named 2001 Realtor of the Year. He has a diploma from the Missouri Auction School and serves as an Auctioneer Colonel for the firm's auctioneering division.
Duane is past President of the Tri-Lakes Board of Realtors and the Missouri Association of Realtors (MAR). At a recent Governor’s Conference
on Economic Development, MAR was recognized for creating a relationship with Japan and the State of Missouri through the Missouri Department of Economic Development. This MAR program was initiated by Duane in 1998, during his Presidency.
A contributing member to the Branson community, Duane has served on several committees for the Branson Chamber of Commerce. He was instrumental in forming the Chamber's Legislative Affairs Committee, served as its chair for several years and is still an active member of the committee.
Duane frequently attends "Breakfast with the Legislators" in Jefferson City sponsored by the Springfield and Branson Chambers. He has served on the City of Branson’s Planning and Zoning, was Charter Treasurer for Christian Action Ministries (CAM) and Charter President of the Branson Tri-Lakes Lions Club.
Contact
Office: 417.334.1892 ext. 102
Toll Free: 1.800.897.4016
Mobile: 417.335.0771
Fax: 417.334.1898
Email: Duane@GerkenandAssociates.com
General Interests
Blessed with a mechanical ability—with old stuff anyway, I like tinkering on the farm and spending time with friends who share enthusiasm of hot rods and farm machinery. My shop at home is my castle and I enjoy working on a project and smoking a good cigar. Enjoy traveling and exploring great American cities as well as rest and relaxation in far away places. On Sundays you'll find me out at the cabin and in the summer cooling off in Table Rock Lake.
Music
Although a Bob Dylan and Rod Stewart fan foremost, I have an eclectic appreciation and collection of music, which includes everything from opera and Gregorian chant to Blue Grass and Da Yoopers.
Movies
Oh Brother Where Art Thou, Shallow Hal, Lord of the Rings, all of John Wayne's old movies, and Cecil B. de Mille classics. The best part of going to the movies is being with my best girl.
Books
Mostly non-fiction periodicals and a good murder mystery.Now here's something easy. Just point-and-click and the calculator does the math for you! Find out monthly payments, borrow amounts, principal and interest in a matter of seconds.The content you requested for this page has loaded in another window. If the content did not load properly, please make sure your browser allows pop-up windows for this site and try again. Or check to see if the content window is behind this window.Thank you! We'll be getting in touch with you soon.Got a question or need further information? Simply fill out the form and we'll contact you with the solution. Don't worry about getting spam; all user email addresses remain confidential.
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Account: gerkenandassociatesYou should hire Charlie Gerken. He is the genious behind this website.Charlie Gerken, e-PRO, GRI, SRS
Broker / Partner
A Branson native and third generation Realtor, Charlie graduated from Branson High school and earned a Bachelor's Degree in Marketing, with an emphasis in Advertising %26 Promotion, from Missouri State University.
For five years, he was the Marketing Director for Butler, Rosenbury %26 Partners, the largest architectural firm in Southwest Missouri. His responsibilities included coordinating design qualification statements for multi-million dollar projects; many of which today are Branson's biggest attractions!
Charlie has a Missouri Salesperson and Broker's license and is a partner of Gerken %26 Associates Realtors. Aside from selling commercial and residential real estate, his responsibilities include firm management, promotional materials and information systems.
Committed to his career, Charlie is a GRI (Graduate Realtor Institute) Designee. GRI is a designation awarded by the Missouri Association of Realtors to National Association of Realtors members who have successfully completed the required 12, eight-hour courses of advanced lectures and exams held throughout the state of Missouri.
A certified Internet professional, he has completed the e-PRO training program and exam for real estate professionals, endorsed by the National Association of Realtors. An e-PRO agent streamlines the entire transaction, from showing to closing, through a number of online tools and advanced software.
Actively involved in the local board of Realtors, Charlie is a member of the Tri-Lakes Board of Realtors Honor Society. He is also a two-year committee member of RPAC (Realtor Political Action Committee), a group which raises funds for those in political office who are supportive of protecting private property rights.
Recognized by the Advertising Industry for excellence, Charlie has received 14 ADDY Awards for his creative work. Now this is the kind of guy you want to market and sell your property!
With over eight years experience as a freelance designer and consultant, Charlie offers small businesses the marketing power of large corporations. His past clients include:
Wonders of WildlifeArlan HomesBMW EngineeringTOSA MedicalSpringfield Design AssociationLake Country SoccerJohn Horner ConsultingBoy Scouts of AmericaPlatinum PlaceGerken %26 Associates RealtorsBranson Arts CouncilSygna TechnologyLove Of The GamesPhysician Business %26 Leisure MagazineChurch Army BransonLeaders In OrthopedicsSL RampsMissouri Association of RealtorsWest Plains Public LibraryDogwood Tree Vineyards
Charlie was named Rookie of the Year for his first year in real estate by the Tri-Lakes Board of Realtors. He's also been honored by The Springfield Business Journal with its prestigious 40 Under 40 Award, a recognition given to 40 outstanding businesspeople under the age of 40 in Southwest Missouri for their leadership, accomplishments and community service.
Playing an active role throughout Southwest Missouri communities, Charlie has lectured at Drury University, Missouri State University and Public Schools Student Programs. In addition, he volunteers design work for not-for-profit organizations, including the Branson Arts Council and Church Army Branson.
Charlie has served as a Springfield Ambassador to the Chamber of Commerce and member of the Springfield Ad Club. Currently, he serves as a Branson Chamber Ambassador and volunteer for numerous area events held throughout the year. Elected for a 3-year term, Charlie currently serves on the Branson Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.
A Board of Director for the Branson-Hollister Rotary Club, Charlie actively volunteers with local professional leaders to address various community service needs; most recently the Women's Crisis Center and Salvation Army. In addition, he has served as the Rotary Float chairmen and driver for Branson's Annual Adoration Christmas Day Parade for the past two years.
A graduate of the Branson Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce's Leadership program, Charlie is thoroughly familiar with Branson's evolution, environment, community service, marketing, government and future economic development plans.
Contact
Office: 417.334.1892 ext. 103
Toll Free: 1.800.897.4016
Mobile: 417.527.8435
Fax: 417.334.1898
E-mail: Charlie@GerkenandAssociates.com
Website: CharlieGerken.com
General Interests
Dogs, water skiing, to-do lists, motivational books, graphic design, online activities and staying fit.
Pets
A black miniature Schnauzer. Her name is Friend. She won first place in the Springfield Schnauzer Strut for obedience and tricks.
Books
The Hidden Life Of Dogs – Elizabeth Thomas
Million Dollar Habits – Brian Tracy
On The Road – Jack Kerouac
Secrets Of Power Negotiating – Roger Dawson
The Art Of Exceptional Living – Jim Rohn
Pscho-Cybernetics – Maxwell MaltzHomebuyers want to know three immediate things: price, location and number of bedrooms in the house.Charlie Gerken
e-PRO, GRI, SRS
Broker / PartnerIf you've recently moved, have marital problems or are unsure of your job, now is probably not a good time to buy a new house.Buying a new car is not a good idea if you're looking to purchase a house. That makes lenders nervous and queasy.Did you know that only 10%25 of For Sale By Owners sell their home successfully?Keeping visitors happy will help sell your house. Even though your pet is a family member, keep them out of the way when your property is shown.Temperature plays an important factor when buyers visit your home. Experts say set your thermostat to 72 in the winter and 69 in the summer.There are five main conditions to selling property quickly: Location, marketing, condition, price and the market.The average shower uses 17.2 gallons of water, 25%25 less than a bath, which uses 24 gallons of water.Make a box of essentials when moving. Include such items as light bulbs, towels, toilet paper, paper towels, cups, tape and trash bags.Packing room-by-room keeps similar items together and will avoid confusion later when you’re moving in.Did you know that using a Real Estate Agent gives you a 75 percent greater chance of selling your home?This is an all FLASH website. You won't need your browser buttons. If you get lost, simply click on the logo at the top to return home.Hello, we're your tip agents! We'll periodically give you advice on buying, selling and making the most out of using this website.