As of January 26^th, 2010, there were 92 foreclosures and 35 short sales active on the market in Taney and Stone counties.  45 of these are residential foreclosures in Taney counties ranging from a 1 bedroom, 2 bath home in Branson listed for $49,900 to a 4 bedroom, 4 bath home in Branson’s Pointe Royale subdivision listed for $549,900.  Stone County has 27 residential home foreclosures on the market ranging from a 1 bedroom, 1 bath bungalow located down DD Highway outside of Branson West listed for $22,500 to a 4 bedroom, 3 bath home in Kimberling City’s Overlook subdivision for $439,000.  In regard to the condo foreclosure market, there are currently 16 condos in Taney County listed for sale ranging from a 3 bedroom, 2 bath condo at Academy Commons outside of Branson listed for $44,500 to a 2 bedroom 2 bath Branson Landing condo listed for $219,900.  Stone County currently has 4 condo foreclosures on the market ranging from a 2 bedroom 2 bath condo located at Notch Estates for $49,900 to a 2 bedroom, 2 bath Stonebridge Village lodge listed for $124,900. 

Currently, there are 35 short sales listed for sale on the Tri-Lakes MLS.  There are 20 residential short sales in Taney County ranging from a 3 bedroom, 2 bath duplex in Forsyth listed for $69,900 to a 5 bedroom, 4 bath home outside of Branson listed for $369,900.  There are 3 residential short sales in Stone County ranging from a 5 bedroom 2 bath home located down DD Highway outside of Branson West listed for $119,900 to a 4 bedroom, 2 bath home in Branson West listed for $237,900.  4 condo short sales are currently on the market in Taney County ranging from a 1 bedroom, 1 bath condo at Pointe Royale listed for $44,000 to a 2 bedroom 2 bath Branson Landing condo listed for $399,900.  In Stone County, there are 8 condo short sales listed right now ranging from a 1 bedroom, 2 bath lodge at Stonebridge Village outside of Branson West listed at $79,500 to a 3 bedroom, 3 bath lodge also located at Stonebridge priced at $211,750.

Residential foreclosures in Taney and Stone counties represent 26 pending sales in the Tri Lakes Multi List System and foreclosure condos represent 6 pending sales.  From January 1st  to January 26th, 2010, there were 6 residential foreclosure homes that sold in Taney and Stone counties ranging from a 3 bedroom, 1 bath home in Kirbyville that sold for $40,000 to a 3 bedroom, 3 bath home in Branson that sold for $113,500.  1 2 bedroom, 2 bath foreclosure condo at Stonebridge has closed for $82,500.

For more information on foreclosures in Branson and the surrounding area, please e-mail salesteam@sunsetrealtyservices.com.  If you would like to receive new foreclosure listings as they come on the market, complete the form on our home page. 

Did you know that over 8 million people visit the Branson area annually? In today’s economy, this is quite an accomplishment. One reason so many people still head to Branson is our prime location. Nestled in the heart of the Ozark Mountains, Branson is just one day’s drive from 25% of the United State’s population. The newly opened Branson Regional Airport, the first privately owned and operated commercial airport in the U.S., makes it even easier for tourists to reach our family-friendly vacation destination.

While an easy to reach location is great, that isn’t all that draws visitors to Branson and the surrounding area. We’ve got three spectacular lakes, each unique from the others. First and probably best known in the area is Table Rock Lake. With over 700 miles of shoreline and over 43,000 surface acres, this pristine lake is a paradise for boaters, water skiers, scuba divers and swimmers. For the fishermen in the bunch, Lake Taneycomo’s cold, clear waters offer some of the best trout fishing in the world and flows through Historic Downtown Branson. Bull Shoals Lake is renowned for its largemouth bass and offers visitors who are looking for a little less traffic an opportunity to boat, swim and ski.

Of course, Branson is has been in the live music entertainment business for 50 years and boasts over 50 theaters and nearly 100 shows. Don’t think that we just have country music either – there’s something for every taste, ranging from The Liverpool Legends (hand-picked by Louise Harrison, George Harrison’s sister) performing as The Beatles to The Chinese Acrobats to The Legends in Concert featuring some of the world’s greatest impersonators portraying such artists as The Blues Brothers, Neil Diamond, Buddy Holly, Elvis and many others. For country music fans, Branson still has plenty of shows to choose from including Jim Stafford and The Oak Ridge Boys.

In addition to all the shows and the natural Ozark beauty, there’s a host of other things to do in Branson including Silver Dollar City, an 1880’s themed amusement park, White Water, Branson’s outdoor water park, the Titanic Museum, Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum and The Butterfly Palace. Located downtown on Lake Taneycomo, The Branson Landing, our newest $300 million addition, offers over 100 shopping choices, 10 restaurants and live entertainment. With so much to do, it’s easy to see why over 8 million visitors flock to Branson yearly.

All of these tourists need a place to stay and many of these visitors want more than a motel room for their vacation. They want the conveniences of home. To achieve this comfort, an increasing number of visitors are renting vacation homes and condos. The advantages are numerous. They can stay under the same roof where everyone has their own room where they can hang out, read or watch TV without being on top of each other. Fully-stocked kitchens eliminate the expense of eating every meal in a restaurant. Leftovers can be brought back to the home further reducing food costs. Pet friendly vacation condos and homes allow those that want to travel with their four-legged companions a place to stay. Additionally, many properties offer great amenities for guests to use such as swimming pools, hot tubs, tennis and golf. These are just a few reasons why many tourists coming to the Branson area opt to stay in a vacation rental home or condo over a hotel.

Now more than ever, Branson is a great place to vacation AND invest. Sunset Realty and Sunset Nightly Rentals specialize in vacation property sales and vacation rental management around the Branson and Tri-Lakes area. We are committed to finding the right property and achieving the best possible return for your investment. Unlike other real estate companies, Sunset has first hand knowledge and experience in the vacation rental industry. It’s a great way to enjoy a vacation property and rent it when not in use, helping offset your mortgage. If you would like more information on vacation rental investments,call us at 866-804-8361. To view our vacation rental properties and schedule your next trip to Branson, call us at 877-784-4614.

free “family friendly” things to do in Branson

The rolling Ozark Mountains and our three incredible lakes, Table Rock Lake, Bull Shoals Lake and Lake Taneycomo, make Branson, Missouri a beautiful, scenic outdoor wonderland that provides great opportunities for exciting and leisurely vacations. There are plenty of things to see and do. Even better, there are plenty of FREE things to do that are fun and interesting for everyone. Branson’s great variety of outdoor fun, unique attractions and interesting history make it the perfect place to live or discover a great vacation!

1. Table Rock Lake: The waters of this outdoor wonderland have become a haven for visitors nationwide. Take advantage of water activities such as boating, fishing, water-skiing, swimming, scuba diving, hiking and camping. Table Rock Dam is a massive engineering structure that was completed in 1958 and created Table Rock Lake. Crowds gather to watch the powerful structure hold back the waters of the White River.
2. Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery: One of Branson’s most popular tourist sites, the fish hatchery is located below Table Rock Dam. The center has several beautiful aquariums showcasing Missouri’s native fish including both Rainbow and Brown Trout for not only Lake Taneycomo but other state trout fishing facilities. Self-guided and conducted tours are available. The hatchery is operated by the Missouri Department of Conservation.
3. Moonshine Beach: Moonshine Beach is a great place to relax with the family. The sandy beach located on Table Rock Lake next to the dam allows families to swim, sun and enjoy beautiful views. ($4.00 per vehicle)
4. Bull Shoals Lake: Bull Shoals is a water sports paradise. Almost 1,000 miles of pristine shoreline is open to visitors from all over the nation who come to fish, scuba dive, houseboat, water ski, wake board, camp, and relax. Bull Shoals Lake water is very clean and clear. Swimming is enjoyable from mid May until late September. Fishing on Bull Shoals Lake is excellent all year with peak action in March, April, and May.
5. Lake Taneycomo: Lake Taneycomo’s clear cold waters provide some of the finest trout fishing available anywhere in the world. The Rainbow Trout and Brown Trout that ply the waters of Lake Taneycomo provide an exciting, year-round fishing experience. Full-service marinas and outfitters in the area offer canoeing, kayaking, fishing boats, motors, guides, tackle, and pontoons for relaxing and fun-filled lake activities. Other activities in and around this lake include hiking, scuba diving, and picnicking.
6. Shopping in Branson: Branson is a great place to shop and it doesn’t cost a thing to look! Explore the many outlet malls and the new addition to the Branson scene, Branson Landing.
7. Historic Downtown Branson: A small-town, charming glimpse into historic Branson. This popular area is filled with shops, restaurants and quaint stores filled with treasures.
8. Historic Downtown Branson’s Discovery Trolley: The green trolleys run a 15 minute loop through Historic Downtown Branson and the length and breadth of Branson Landing.
9. Branson Landing: The Landing has a beautiful level 1 ½ mile family friendly boardwalk. Visitors can stroll while enjoying scenic views, Lake Taneycomo, 100+ shops, 20+ restaurants and free entertainment.
10. Branson Landing Fountain Show: Fountains are located at the heart of Branson Landing at the foot of the “Town Square” on the Lake Taneycomo lakefront. The fountains are a part of the spectacular $7.5 million water, fire, and light and music show that shows every hour…most spectacular at night! Free concerts on some weekends.
11. Henning State Forest: This 1,534 acre-park, located on W. Highway 76 just one mile west of Branson, offers spectacular views, nature trails and nature studies. There is a naturalist on hand to answer questions and a beautiful scenic lookout area that provides an incredible view of the countryside.
12. Stockstill Park: This park offers Branson visitors 62 acres of outdoor enjoyment that includes calm streams, athletic opportunities and rolling, grassy meadows and is located just a few minutes from Lake Taneycomo. This very popular park is a hub of activities for adults and children alike. The park, which sets along Roark Creek, hosts softball and tennis leagues for all ages on its two softball fields and six tennis courts. Throughout the park are two large children’s playgrounds and four separate covered pavilions that are a popular for family picnics. A ½ mile paved walking trail surrounds the park. Public restrooms are available. A lighted soccer field and the newest feature, a skate park can also be found at the park. You may take either W Hwy 76, north on Walnut St., then west on Stockstill Lane into the park; or take Hwy 248 west, south on Epps Road, then east on Melody Penner Lane.
13. Stone Hill Winery: Experience a sparkling tour of wine making on this free tour, which ends with some fine wine tasting. Kids receive grape juice.
14. College of the Ozarks: This picturesque campus is complete with gorgeous landscaping, fountains and walking paths. Visitors will also want to experience the Keeter Center Restaurant and the free tours at Edwards Mill which is an actual working grist mill and is powered by a twelve foot water wheel driven by water flowing from Lake Honor in the center of the campus. Also check out the Ralph Foster Museum, which houses the area’s best collection of Ozark’s history. (Slight fee for museum admission.)
15. Free Sunday Shows in Branson: Several Branson theaters open their doors Sunday morning for gospel singing and praising.

Since time is running out to take advantage of the first time home buyer tax credit, we thought we would tell you a little about the credit and the unique opportunity that Missouri is providing to assist with down payment and closing costs.  Even if you already own your home, your family and friends may be eligible for the credit so feel free to pass this information along. 

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The Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008 established this credit for first time home buyers.  Originally, the credit was only up to $7,500 and was similar to a no-interest loan in the fact that it had to be repaid over a 15 year period.  The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 expanded this credit to $8000 and eliminated the repayment clause as long as the purchaser owns the home as the primary residence for at least three years after the purchase.

Here are some of the requirements in order to claim this credit on your 2009 tax return:

• Applies to purchases that close before December 1^st, 2009.
• The home must be the taxpayer’s principal residence.
• Taxpayers may claim 10% of the purchase price up to $8,000 for married couples filing jointly and $4,000 for married individuals filing separately.
• A taxpayer is considered a first-time homebuyer if you (or your spouse if you are married) did not own any other main home during the three year period prior to the date of purchase.
• The credit begins to phase out for taxpayers whose adjusted gross income is more than $75,000 or $150,000 for married couples filing jointly.

Recently, Missouri was the first state to launch a Tax Credit Advance Loan program allowing buyers to use the credit toward their down payment and/or closing costs.  Rolled out on January 14^th by the Missouri Housing Development Commission, this program makes a second mortgage to the home buyer at closing worth up to 6% of the purchase price up to $6,750 to assist with the down payment and closing costs.  The home buyer files for the federal tax credit on their 2009 tax return and uses the credit refund to pay back the advance.  As long as the buyer pays back the advance no later than the deadline of June, 2010, there is no interest due.  In order to take advantage of this assistance, homebuyers must qualify for their home mortgage loan through a MHDC certified lender for an FHA, VA or USDA Rural Development loan. 

For more information on the tax credit or for a list of MHDC certified lenders, please contact us at www.SunsetSalesTeam.com.

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We look forward to continue to work with you on your real estate needs. Call us toll free at 1-866-804-8361 and don’t forget our websites at www.SunsetRealtyServices.com and www.SunsetNightlyRentals.com. You can also text or call me at 417-699-1070.

Dustin Hall

Broker/Owner

Dustin@SunsetRealtyServices.com 

SUNSET SCOOP

Hi again. Here is more information about Branson. Hope you’re enjoying the Sunset Scoop.

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What is the climate like in Branson?

The average climate in Branson ranges from an average low of 45 degrees, to an average high of 67 degrees. Average rainfall is 36 inches, and average snowfall is 9 inches.

What is the median selling price in Branson?

According to Tri-Lakes Board of Realtors, the median selling price in Branson in 2008 for condos was $139,847, for homes was $177,035 and land for $96,011.

What is the Missouri State Income Tax rate?

The tax rate is 6 percent on Missouri taxable income exceeding $9000. There is no estate tax in Missouri.

What was the first show in Branson?

The Baldknobbers Hillbilly Jamboree Show. The Show opened in 1959 and is still around. It took its name from a vigilante group that roamed the area during the Civil War era. Although the first shows were country-oriented, a reputation that still lingers, the spectrum of entertainment today is varied, with attractions as different as Andy Williams, Russian comedian Yakov Smirnoff and Chinese acrobats with the New Shanghai Circus. 

What cities are close to Branson?

Little Rock, AR          172 miles

Des Moines, IA           401 miles

Chicago, IL                 547 miles

Indianapolis, IN          499 miles

Topeka, KS                273 miles

Wichita, KS                356 miles

Louisville, KY             510 miles

Shreveport, LA           396 miles

Jefferson City, MO     174 miles

Joplin, MO                 123 miles

Kansas City, MO        215 miles

St. Louis, MO             253 miles

Springfield, MO            45 miles

Jackson, MS                507 miles

Omaha, NE                 401 miles

Oklahoma City, OK    334 miles

Tulsa, OK                    230 miles

Memphis, TN              301 miles

Nashville, TN              557 miles

Dallas, TX                   433 miles 

SUNSET SCOOP

Hi. I would like to share some valuable information with you about Real Estate statistics for Branson according to Tri-Lakes Board of Realtors of Branson. Let us know if you would like additional information.

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Did you know that buying in the Branson area has never been better?

In 2004, the median sale price for condos was $86,532, and $141,536 for homes. In 2008, the median sale price for condos was $139,947 and $177,035 for homes. That’s an overall average increase of 10% per year for the last 5 years! In 2008, as compared to 2007, condo’s average sales prices increased by 13%, whereas residential sales prices decreased by 4%. Many investors have been coming to the area to take advantage of the steady growing market. Prices are still low and the growing continues! As reported by the City of Branson on January 7, 2009, new construction for 2008 surpassed the $100 million mark for the 4^th consecutive year. Branson is being called “recession resistant”.  For additional sales details, see the table below.

Real Estate Statistics for the Branson, Tri-Lakes area

2004 – 2008

NOTE: These stats were compiled from the Tri-Lakes Board of Realtors of Branson, Missouri Marketing Activity Report

*Did you know that property taxes in the Branson area are among some of the lowest in the country?

For Branson, the rate is $4.67 per $100 of assessed value. For Taney County, rates vary from $3.9611 to $5.2981 and for Stone County they are $3.2892 to $4.6063, both per $100 of assessed value. Homes are assessed at 19% of market value. Example - for a house valued at $150,000 in Branson, the yearly tax would be approximately $1,200.

*Rates may be adjusted in August, 2009

Did you know that TIME magazine calls Branson “an opportunity waiting to happen”?

In an September 6, 2007 article entitled “Home Free”, TIME suggests rent to own. TIME says if you are 5 to 10 years out from retirement, you should buy your retirement home now while prices are low and use it as a vacation rental. Areas they mention include…”BRANSON, MO”.

At Sunset Nightly Rentals, we offer a unique combination of real estate sales and vacation rental management. We know rentals! If you are looking for a vacation property to put in a rental program, we have the expertise to help direct you to the locations and types of properties that will do best in a program. 

Did you know that WHERE to RETIRE magazine suggests Branson as a great retirement area?  WHERE to RETIRE says that few know that Branson has increasingly become a retirement magnet. They go on to say that entertainment has something to do with that, but more important are the area’s scenic beauties, its below-average cost of living and its down-home atmosphere. Lakes are one of the primary attractions to the area. WHERE to RETIRE says “Beyond its noted entertainment strip, this star in the Missouri Ozarks is a laid-back, scenic retreat”.     

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We look forward to continue to work with you on your real estate needs. Call us toll free at 1-866-804-8361 and don’t forget our websites at www.SunsetRealtyServices.com and www.SunsetNightlyRentals.com. You can also text or call me, Dustin Hall, at 417-699-1070. If sending a text, you can either text from your phone or send from the attached Alltel link. http://www.alltel.com/wps/portal/AlltelPublic/SendATextMessage

Dustin Hall

Broker/Owner

Dustin@SunsetRealtyServices.com

SUNSET SCOOP

Hi again. It’s time for another…SUNSET SCOOP. This SUNSET SCOOP contains general information about Branson golf courses. Be sure and let me know if you would like additional information.

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The Branson and Tri-Lakes Area is home to outstanding Golf Courses which have an impressive list of honors and awards to their credit by Golf Digest, Golf Week, and Travel & Leisure Magazine. Every course has challenging play for beginners and the avid golf enthusiasts. You can’t beat the Ozark Mountain scenery and views of the Tri-Lakes Area.

Branson Creek Golf Course- 18 Holes with over 7,036 yards and a par of 71

Location: 1 mile east of Hwy 65 on Branson Creek Dr.

Pro Shop: (417) 339-4653

Branson Creek Golf Course has been listed and highly recommended in Travel & Leisure Golf Magazine and Golf Week. Designed by architect Tom Fazion and managed by Troon Golf, Branson Creek Golf Club features the breathtaking landscape of the Ozark Mountains.

Murder Rock Golf Course- 18 Holes with over 6,700 yards and a par of 71

Location: Branson Creek, 1250 Golf Club Dr

Pro Shop (417) 332-3259

Another golf course at Branson Creek is Murder Rock. There’s a legend heard around the hollows of Branson Creek about Murder Rock, a place where Civil War bushwhacker Alfred Bolin and his gang were known to ambush travelers. The 18-hole Championship Golf Course at John Daly’s Murder Rock Golf and Country Club enhances the magnificent landscape of the Ozark Mountains, incorporating the natural beauty of the land with lush fairways and pristine greens.

Holiday Hills Golf Course- 18 holes with over 5,771 yards and a par of 68

Location: 2380 E State Highway 76, Branson

Pro Shop: (417) 334-4838

This course was rebuilt in 1997 featuring a unique landscape offering lakes, creeks, waterfalls and is outlined with immense trees. Holidays Hills has wide open fairways yet accommodates and challenges every level of golfer.

Ledgestone Golf Course- 18 holes with over 6,800 yards and a par of 71

Location: Stonebridge, 1600 Ledgestone Way, Branson West

Pro Shop (417) 335-8187

Spectacular scenery with dense forests, Ledgestone Golf Course is a course most golfers won’t forget. Water, bunkers, and narrow fairways make this Ozark Mountain course a challenge. Semi-private.

Payne Stewart Golf Course- 18 holes with over 7,400 yards and a par of 72

Location: Branson Hills, Hwy 65 to the Branson Hills Parkway

Pro Shop (417) 33P-AYNE

The beautiful image of his flowing arc and gold-toed footwork will create an effortless balance to help carry you through your round. Try to emulate Payne’s game and enjoy the natural beauty and challenges of the Payne Stewart Golf Club.

Pointe Royale Golf Course- 18 holes with over 6,067 yards and a par of 70

Location: 1000 Pointe Royale Dr, Branson

Pro Shop (866) 334-4477

Pointe Royale Golf Course is located off of Country Music Boulevard in Branson. This course offers a challenge for all golfers with its rolling landscape, water on 9 holes and bunkers on every hole. Closed during 2008 for repairs!  

Thousand Hills Golf Course- 18 holes with over 5,111 yards and a par of 64

Location: 245 S. Wildwood, Branson

Pro Shop (800) 864-4145

Thousand Hills Golf Course is located in the middle of the entertainment district of Branson. The course features bent grass greens, with zoysia fairways and tees.

Top of the Rock Golf Course- 9 holes with over 1,330 yards and a par of 27

Location: 150 Top of the Rock Road, Hollister

Pro Shop (417) 339-5312

This 9 hole, Par 3 golf course was designed by golf legend Jack Nicklaus. It offers incredible views and is set high above Table Rock Lake. Temporarily closed. Public.

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We look forward to continue to work with you on your real estate needs. Call us toll free at 1-866-804-8361 and don’t forget our websites at www.SunsetRealtyServices.com and www.SunsetNightlyRentals.com. You can also text or call me, Dustin Hall, at 417-699-1070. If sending a text, you can either text from your phone or send from the attached Alltel link. http://www.alltel.com/wps/portal/AlltelPublic/SendATextMessage

Dustin Hall

Broker/Owner

Dustin@SunsetRealtyServices.com

SUNSET SCOOP

Here is some trivia about the Branson area. Be sure and let me know if you have any questions.

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Did you know that Branson proper has only 7,000 residents?

But surrounding communities considerably expand the population to approximately 74,000 in the two county area…Taney and Stone counties. Major communities in Stone County include:  Branson West, Kimberling City, Indian Point, Lampe, Cape Fair, Shell Knob and Blue Eye. Major communities in Taney County include:  Branson, Hollister, Ridgedale, Forsyth and Rockaway Beach.

Did you know that Branson has excellent health care?

Skaggs Community Health Center is a 165-bed, not-for-profit, community-owned, full-service hospital and health center with 180 associated physicians representing more than 35 specialties, and is located on North Business Highway 65, near downtown Branson. The campus includes Skaggs Hospital, Skaggs Outpatient Center, a helicopter landing pad for air ambulance service and two medical office plazas. Skaggs also manages a variety of family medicine and specialty satellite clinics throughout Stone and Taney counties, as well as the area’s newest fitness center—the 7,500-square foot Skaggs Health & Fitness Center at Branson Hills RecPlex. Among Skaggs’ services are a heart center, rehabilitation and therapy programs, wound care, community outreach and wellness services and a 24-hour trauma center and emergency room.

What Schools are in the Branson area?

There are many excellent Public Schools and Colleges surrounding the Branson area. Below you will find a list of the schools along with school addresses, phone numbers and website links.

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We look forward to continue to work with you on your real estate needs. Call us toll free at 1-866-804-8361 and don’t forget our websites at www.SunsetRealtyServices.com and www.SunsetNightlyRentals.com. You can also text or call me, Dustin Hall, at 417-699-1070. If sending a text, you can either text from your phone or send from the attached Alltel link.  http://www.alltel.com/wps/portal/AlltelPublic/SendATextMessage

Dustin Hall

Broker/Owner

Dustin@SunsetRealtyServices.com

SUNSET SCOOP

Hi again. It’s time for another…SUNSET SCOOP. This SUNSET SCOOP contains information about major construction underway in the Branson area. Be sure and let me know if you would like additional information on these developments or any other subjects. From time to time I’ll continue to send you more data about Branson.

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What are some of the new, major constructions currently happening in the Branson area?

The Wilderness in the Ozarks in Hollister. It is a 120 acre, $250 million condominium resort that will also include an outdoor and indoor water park, “The District”, which will include a 7,500 seat multi-use center, restaurants, multi-plex cinema and bowling entertainment center. It is set to open Christmas, 2009. It is located on the southeast corner of the new Hollister Hwy 65 Interchange.   

Branson Hills

Branson Hills is located in the northern part of Branson, off Hwy 65 Bee Creek exit. It includes both residential and commercial properties. There is the new $12 million, 42 acre Branson RecPlex that includes a 7,500 sq. ft. fitness center, 12,000 sq. ft. outdoor pool with mega slides, 2 basketball courts, running track, 2,000 sq. ft. community room and several soccer and baseball fields. Branson Hills also has shops and dining including Target, TJ Max, Books A Million, Home Depot, Walmart Supercenter, Kohl’s, Petco, Wendy’s and Chili’s to name a few. Currently under construction includes Best Buy, Bed Bath & Beyond, M C Sports, Michael’s, among others. Phases two and three will include the development of more shops and restaurants over the next four years. In addition to commercial growth, the Branson Hills Development Company is also working to bring hundreds more homes to the area. The $300 million, 1,200-acre development will include 800 homes and a Payne Stewart 18 hole championship golf course and club house that opened September 1, 2008.  

Branson Creek Community

Located south of downtown Branson off Hwy 65, Branson Creek is the areas largest residential development spanning 7,500 acres of the Ozarks. In the early 1990’s, Branson Development, LLC, purchased the land that now forms the Branson Creek community. Community includes individual homes, villas, condos and 2 new championship golf courses, John Daly’s Murder Rock and Branson Creek Golf Course. Branson Creek Community is also where the new Branson Regional Airport is located.    

Indian Ridge Resort Community in Branson West. The $1.6 billion development takes up about 1,000 acres. It is located next door to Silver Dollar City off State Highway 76. The Resort will include an indoor water park, 18 hole championship golf course, conference center, eight-story resort hotel, single family homes, condos and townhouses. Residential areas are currently under construction.

Branson Regional Airport. Privately funded, $155 million, 58,000 square feet airport is scheduled for completion May 2009. It is located in south of downtown Branson at Branson Creek, off Highway 65. The airport will be able to initially accommodate 700,000 customers annually. It is the first privately financed commercial airport in the United States. There are plans in the works for an air show for the grand opening and annually thereafter. It will be one of the top 10 air shows in the nation!

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We look forward to continue to work with you on your real estate needs. Call us toll free at 1-866-804-8361 and don’t forget our websites at www.SunsetRealtyServices.com and www.SunsetNightlyRentals.com. You can also text or call me, Dustin Hall, at 417-699-1070. If sending a text, you can either text from your phone or send from the attached Alltel link. http://www.alltel.com/wps/portal/AlltelPublic/SendATextMessage

Dustin Hall

Broker/Owner

Dustin@SunsetRealtyServices.com

SUNSET SCOOP

Hi. It’s time for another…SUNSET SCOOP. This SUNSET SCOOP contains information about Branson area lakes. Be sure and let me know if you would like additional information on the lakes in our area or any other subjects.

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Did you know that there are three fabulous lakes in the Branson area?

Lake Taneycomo, Table Rock Lake and Bull Shoals Lake. Between the three lakes there are 1,785 miles of shoreline.  The lakes are stocked with bass, trout, crappie, catfish and other species and are prime sites for water sports.

Table Rock Lake

Designed, built and operated by the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers, Table Rock Dam and Lake has become a paradise for boaters, scuba divers, campers and fishermen alike. Camping enthusiasts are treated to thirteen Corps of Engineers operated campgrounds located adjacent to Table Rock Lake. Full service marinas operate on Table Rock Lake at various locations to provide service and convenience to boaters. Over 100 resorts are located adjacent to Table Rock Lake and provide visitors with numerous water-related activities. For those visitors who do not want to operate a boat but still want to experience the beauty of the area from the water, five commercial boat cruises or rides operate on Table Rock Lake.

Nature enthusiasts and hunters enjoy using the public land surrounding Table Rock Lake which includes portions of the Mark Twain National Forest.

New Docks

With Table Rock Lake being one of the front-runners when it comes to development for the Corps, there is a limited amount of space left for new docks to be put on the lake. Anyone interested in adding a boat dock, needs to visit the Corps’ Web site and view the shoreline zoning map. There is a list of requirements and an inspection must be done before there is any guarantee of a dock permit.  However, currently the only new boat dock permits being issued at Table Rock Lake are for a minimum of 12 slips and a maximum of 20.

Shoreline

It is important to know that Table Rock shoreline is government property. There is an uneven line around the lake that marks the government property. This is to protect the unspoiled natural and scenic beauty of the shoreline. No modification of the government property is allowed without a permit. One can request permission to make a footpath to the lake, remove small brush, and mow on government property. The first step is to fill out a Vegetation Modification Permit to conduct the desired activities and then mailing or presenting, in person, the application to the Table Rock Lake Project Office. There are some activities expressly prohibited on government land such as burning, using a vehicle, placing of personal property, and the use of chemicals. Also, one may not trim or cut trees (live or dead) unless the Project Office has granted permission.

For more information:
US Army Corps of Engineers

4600 State Highway 165
Branson, Missouri
65616-8980
Phone: (417) 334-4101
Fax: (417) 334-4169
Email: ceswl-tr@usace.army.mil

www.swl.usace.army.mil/parks/tablerock

Lake Taneycomo

Activities on and around Lake Taneycomo in Branson, Missouri include boating, sailing, hunting, hiking, scuba diving, and, of course, fishing. Public full-service marinas provide boats, motors, guides, tackle and pontoons for relaxing and fun filled days. Lake Taneycomo flows right past historic downtown Branson and Branson Landing.

Although technically a lake, it has the look and feel of a river. Since the completion of Table Rock Dam in 1958, the physiology of the lake changed to a cold water fishery. Lake Taneycomo now has a reputation as one of the finest trout fishing reservoirs in the nation. The cold, clear water combined with the Shepherd of the Hills Trout Hatchery has made it the perfect spot for rainbow and brown trout. About 80% of the 1,200,000 trout raised at the hatchery each year are released into Taneycomo.

History: Lake Taneycomo (short for Taney County Missouri) was created in 1913 when the White River was captured by the newly constructed “Power Site” Dam, near Forsyth, Missouri. The completion of Table Rock Dam in 1958, 22 miles upstream, created a southern boundary for the Lake which now consists of over 2,080 surface acres. Unlike the Table Rock and Bull Shoals Dams and Lakes, which are owned by the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Power Site Dam is privately owned by Empire Electric Company. This company holds a license to continue operating the Dam and its hydroelectric plant until 2022.

From 1913 until 1958 Taneycomo was a “warm water” lake, but when Table Rock Dam started feeding Taneycomo, the water coming through the “power generators” was significantly lower in temperature. Virtually overnight, a “cold water” fishery was created. To take advantage of this change, the Missouri Department of Conservation constructed the “Shepherd of the Hills Trout Hatchery” at the foot of the Dam.

Lake Bull Shoals

Bull Shoals Lake is a water sports paradise. Almost 1,000 miles of pristine shoreline is open to visitors from all over the nation who come to fish, scuba dive, houseboat, water ski, wake board, camp, and relax. Bull Shoals Lake water is very clean and clear. Swimming is enjoyable from mid May until late September. Fishing on Bull Shoals Lake is excellent all year with peak action in March, April, and May.

Marinas on Bull Shoals Lake have boats and motors for rent, supplies for sale, and guides for hire. The Corps of Engineers provides launching areas and ramps for those who bring their own boats. Water sports such as swimming and skiing are popular on Bull Shoals Lake, as is cruising the hundreds of miles of lake arms and coves by motorboat or sailboat. Scuba divers come to Bull Shoals from many states to enjoy their sport in the clear, blue water. Spearfishing is enjoyed year-round.

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We look forward to continue to work with you on your real estate needs. Call us toll free at 1-866-804-8361 and don’t forget our websites at www.SunsetRealtyServices.com and www.SunsetNightlyRentals.com. You can also text or call me, Dustin Hall, at 417-699-1070. If sending a text, you can either text from your phone or send from the attached Alltel link. http://www.alltel.com/wps/portal/AlltelPublic/SendATextMessage

Dustin Hall

Broker/Owner

Dustin@SunsetRealtyServices.com