Articles Tagged "Hermann MO"

If you're planning to move to Missouri from out of state or are already a resident of the Show-Me State who's looking to move to another area, larger cities such as St. Louis or Jefferson City probably come to mind. Those are certainly popular places to live but don't overlook the state's charming small towns. They have many amenities to offer, such as scenic views and access to state parks, and they're often located within an hour or less of a major city.
  
Our real estate agents suggest checking out the following small towns in Missouri you'll want to move to in 2022:

• Washington
  Located about 50 minutes west of downtown St. Louis, Washington is the largest community between St. Louis County and Jefferson City. It's situated on the Missouri River's most southern point and is also at the junction of state highways 100 and 47. The town was officially founded in 1839, but settlers were already living in the area when Lewis and Clark started their westward expedition in 1804.
  
  Washington has a population of a little over 14,000 people, and it's known as the "corncob pipe capital of the world" since it's home to Missouri Meerschaum, which manufactures the pipes. It's also known for its museums, wineries, theaters, shops, festivals, and more, making Washington homes for sale part of a vibrant community. The unemployment rate is lower than the U.S. average, as is its cost of living, further making Washington an attractive place to call home.
    
• Farmington
  Farmington is located in St. Francois County, about 60 miles south of St. Louis at the edge of the beautiful Ozark Mountains, and close to 20,000 people call it home. Established in 1822 as Murphy's Settlement, the town was called St. Francois Court House for a brief time when the county was organized and was later named Farmington.  
  
  It's close to several state parks and has its own city park system, so residents have abundant opportunities to camp, fish, swim, bicycle ride, hike, play disc golf, and more. Attractions such as Bonne Terre Mine, the Farmington Waterpark & Splash Pad, and Farmington Skate Park provide plenty of entertainment near Farmington homes for sale. Residents also enjoy browsing in the unique shops in the historic downtown area.
  
  
• Hermann
  Hermann is located in Gasconade County, south of the Missouri River and tucked away in the Missouri River Valley. 
  
  The town's Old World Charm still exists and is very evident in many Hermann homes for sale, with much of downtown consisting of a historic district with brick buildings from the 1800s. The buildings hug the sidewalk, just as they do in Germany. Hermann has a scenic Wine Trail that features seven family-owned local wineries that produce a third of the state's wine. Residents also enjoy the town's many shops, museums, and festivals, and about 2,400 people make this charming picturebook town their home.

Contact us to see St. Louis homes for sale or to visit homes in some of Missouri's small towns. Our highly trained agents are happy to help you navigate the process of buying or selling a home. 

Who says you have to travel to Napa Valley to sample some of the best wines in the country? If you're looking at Hermann homes for sale, you absolutely need to visit the Hermann Wine Trail while you're in the area. Traveling the trail is easy, you buy your tickets online in advance, then you start your day at any of the participating wineries. At the first winery, you get a souvenir wine glass, which you use at each of your additional stops. Here's a closer look at each of the wineries along the trail.

• Adam Puchta Winery: 1947 Frene Creek Rd., Hermann, MO 65041
  Founded in 1855, Adam Puchta Winery is the oldest continually owned family winery in the US. They focus on making balanced wines, and their winemakers are experts at helping visitors expand their palate and discover new flavors. Some of their best-known wines are their Vidal Blanc and Chardonel.
  
  
• Bias Vineyards: 3166 Highway B, Berger, MO 63014
  As a small, family-owned winery located near Berger homes for sale, Bias Vineyards offers a quiet, welcoming atmosphere where you can really focus on the wine. Their land offers a lovely view of the Missouri River Bottomlands, and their vineyards are visible from the tasting room. Bias Vineyards makes a variety of red and white wines, along with some fruit wines like their Apple Weisser Flieder and Strawberry Weisser Flieder. 
  
  
• Curling Vine Winery: 485 Booneslick Rd., New Florence, MO 63363
  Curling Vine Winery was opened in 2016 by a couple who both grew up in the wine industry. Their tasting room is just off the I-70 and is a popular stop for travelers. Its natural wood decor really sets the mood for an enjoyable tasting. Guests really enjoy the Norton, which is made with Missouri's official state grape. 
  
  
• Dierberg Star Lane Tasting Room: 338 E. First St., Hermann, MO 65041
  The Dierberg Star Lane Tasting Room allows guests to enjoy the fine wines created by Dierberg Estate Vineyards and Star Lane Vineyards in California. This adds some variety to the Hermann Wine Trail, which otherwise features local, Missouri wines. 
  
  
• G. Husmann Wine Company: 302 E. First St., Hermann, MO 65041
  The G. Husmann Wine Company was founded in 1859 and continues to produce lovely wines, most of which are named after the Husmann family members. The Louise Husmann is a dry white with hints of lemon zest and grapefruit. The George Husmann is a deep red with aromas of blackberry and spice. For something lighter, you may want to try the Cuvee of Hermann, which offers a balance of floral and fruity notes.
  
  
• Hermannhof Winery: 330 E. First Street, Hermann, MO 65041
  Just down the street from G. Husmann Wine Co, you'll find Hermannhof Winery. This winery's stone cellars are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Their wine is also exceptional. Along with a tasting, you'll get to enjoy some chocolate and crackers. 
  
  
• Robller Vineyard: 275 Robller Vineyard Rd., New Haven, MO 63068
  Robller Vineyard is celebrating 30 years of operation in 2021, and they'd love you to celebrate with them. Their tasting room is set along rolling acres of countryside and of course, beautiful New Haven homes for sale. Robller makes an excellent Norton with a robust flavor profile. They are also known for their fruity wines, like their Sweet Sunset White, which has hints of pineapple and other tropical fruits.

Our real estate agents highly recommend taking the time to tour the Hermann Wine Trail while you look at Saint Louis homes for sale. Take your time, sip some wine, and enjoy the scenery. If you're still looking for an agent to represent you, don't hesitate to contact us.

A healthy dose of natural light is an easy way to help any space look its best. Natural light illuminates the room, making it look larger and more inviting; high levels of natural light also boost your body's production of serotonin, one of the chemicals associated with happiness and better mood levels.

Our real estate agents suggest exploring options to increase the natural light in your home before you put your home on the market. Here are a few ways to boost your property's natural light. 

1. Choose Colors That Reflect Light
   When choosing paint colors for your home, stick with light hues that will reflect the light that enters the room. Darker hues absorb light, making the room feel smaller and more compact. If you're dealing with a room that you want to leave a darker color, try painting the ceiling, doors, and baseboards in a light color to lighten the room's look. 

2. Add More Mirrors
   Mirrors are an excellent alternative for sleek wall decor and for maximizing a room's natural light. For the best results, position the mirror on a wall across from a window. It will reflect the sunlight the enters the room, instantly increasing the size of the space and enhancing its appearance. The same concept also applies to shiny or reflective pieces of home decor. If you already have a mirror in a room or prefer to consider other options, add decorative pieces crafted from shiny metals or with metallic finishes. These additions instantly brighten the atmosphere in the room. 

3. Reconsider Your Furniture
   Instead of choosing furnishings crafted from dark wood tones and materials, opt for lighter tones. These light colors are another way to reflect the light already in the room. If you're craving a darker alternative, one solution is to use your throw pillows and decorative blankets to decorate in patterns or colors that aren't as effective at reflecting light. Or make sure that the largest pieces of furniture are in lighter hues.

4. Install Larger Windows
   If you're willing to explore more drastic alternatives, install larger windows or new doors in the room. Saint Louis homes for sale that have new, energy-efficient windows are also appealing to potential homebuyers. The presence of more windows is a fantastic way to permanently increase the natural light in your home. Or, if you simply want to replace a window, look for a design with lots of exposed glass. Bay windows and bow windows are both excellent possibilities. 

5. Wash Your Windows
   Even a property that's filled with windows will have insufficient amounts of natural light if the windows are dirty. Washing the interior and exterior of your windows is a simple way to make sure that dirt and grime aren't preventing outside light from penetrating your home. 

Interested in a property with more windows or even a sunroom? Contact us to start your search!

As we return to the workplace and travel becomes more frequent, many of us will be faced with the dilemma of pet care. If you are considering one of our St. Louis homes for sale, you are probably looking at a new community. You might not know your neighbors well enough to ask them to look after your dog. A kennel may work once in a while, and pet daycare could be an option. But our real estate agents suggest you consider another solution: a pet sitter who can come to your home. But where do you begin? These simple tips can get you started:

1. Use Reputable Resources
   Some of the trade associations that can help you initiate your search are The National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS), Pet Sitters International, and Fetch! Pet Care. Each offers a locator listing professionals in your area. Once you have located sitters you want to interview, check their references and reviews. When reviewing comments, make sure there is a "verified stay" indicator to ensure they were written by actual customers.
   
   
2. Select Bonded and Insured Sitters
   These designations don't just mean that you are protected in case of loss. They mean that the sitter has invested in a layer of trust between them and their customers, assuring quality and the integrity of the person entering your home when you are not present. Consider also a criminal background check and proof of sufficient training to perform services well. 
   
   
3. Arrange for Introductions
   It's important that you feel confident in the person that will be providing care. You'll want to watch the sitter interact with your pet. Dogs and cats are automatically drawn to some people and are equally repelled by others. You'll want to make sure that your pets are comfortable with the sitter and do not exhibit fear or nervousness around them. Make sure you allow time for them to meet and greet each other appropriately so that the sitter has the opportunity to comfort the pet. If your pet is not frequently socialized, this could take a little time for them to develop a rapport. 
   
   
4. Thoroughly Discuss Expectations
   Let the sitter know what services you expect and with what frequency. If you expect the pet to be walked, brushed, taken to dog parks or other activities or services, be sure to let the sitter know and obtain a formal agreement. It's important that they can commit the time and energy to meet your expectations. Include start and end times for each session. If there are activities you don't want them to do, be clear in your instructions. Make sure the sitter is aware of any dietary restrictions such as treats versus no treats or specific brands that should be avoided. 
   
   
5. Plan for Emergencies
   Prominently display contact information for you, emergency veterinary services, pet insurance information, and a secondary contact. Maintain a medical history for the pet in case the sitter must seek vet care in your absence. Make sure that you are able to reach the sitter via phone or email every day you are away. Agree upon a backup plan for any emergency that could arise, including a substitute sitter in case the regular sitter is unable to fulfill the agreement. 

If a new neighborhood is in your future, contact us. Our real estate professionals will be happy to help you find the perfect home for you and your family, including the furry members.  

When purchasing a home, ordering a home inspection is an essential item to add to your to-do list. Our real estate agents know that a home inspection is vital for revealing major and minor issues with a home. While a home inspection will cost you, detecting issues now can help you save money in the long run and give you peace of mind about the property you are buying. Here are some home issues detected by a home inspection. 

1. Problems with the Grading
   If the grading of the home's lot isn't scaled correctly, this can cause water to flow towards your home. Your foundation and crawlspace may have excessive levels of moisture; this can cause the frame of your home to rot or lead to the formation of mold. The placement of the windows and doors can also shift, eventually causing the home to appear uneven. 

2. Issues with the Roof
   A home's roof is a common source of issues during a home inspection. Since the roof covers such a large surface area, it's easy for a shingle or two to be damaged during a storm. This can allow water to seep in and damage the home's underlayment or ceiling. Or, the roof itself may be nearing the end of its lifespan. Your home inspector will also examine the components around the roof, like the gutters. It's common for gutters to be clogged and require cleaning. Or, a downspout might not be long enough to properly re-direct water away from your home. 

3. Trouble with the Windows
   Many home inspections reveal problems in and around the windows. If the windows are older, the problem may be that they aren't very energy efficient. Or, the windows can have cracks around them that need to be sealed. Problems with the windows can raise the home's heating and cooling costs and impact the air quality. St. Louis homes for sale with new, energy-efficient windows will have lower energy bills than those with older components. 

4. Complications with the Plumbing
   During the inspection, your inspector will run the faucets and examine the pipes for signs of a leak. They'll also see that the drains are draining correctly. A home's plumbing system is fairly comprehensive, making plumbing issues extremely prevalent. 

5. Defects in the Home's Exterior
   A home's exterior is another common source of issues detected in a home inspection. Wood homes must be closely examined for signs of rot and mildew. Vinyl siding homes may have sections that are damaged and require replacement. Stucco must be correctly installed, or it will present an opportunity for moisture to enter the home. 

6. Unauthorized Additions
   Many cities require a permit for home additions and certain renovations. These projects must also be completed according to the local building code, or the home will potentially have illegal modifications. Fixing illegal improvements is expensive and time-consuming. An inspector will look for signs of shoddy work and discrepancies among the home's construction. 

Are you ready to start shopping for your next home? Contact us today to get started!

While the cold winter months are ideal for cozying up on the couch, sometimes it feels good to be productive. A little home maintenance will also ensure your home looks its best if you list it among the St. Louis market and surrounding area. Whether your home is in St. Louis County, Franklin County, or even further north in St. Charles County, our agents encourage you to work on these home improvement projects this winter. 

1. Declutter and Organize
   Winter is a perfect time to declutter and organize your belongings. You likely have some new holiday gifts that you need to make room for, and there's no better way to start the New Year than with an organized space.
   
   You can either tackle one room at a time, or you may declutter categories of stuff. For example, you might declutter all the clothing in your home or all your paperwork and mementos. Get rid of anything you no longer use, that you have too much, or that you haven't used in more than a year (aside from seasonal items).
   
   Once you know what you're left with, you can organize your belongings with containers, shelves, rods, and hooks. Our real estate agents know that a well-organized home also looks larger and more appealing to potential buyers. 

2. Replace Old Hardware
   Old hardware, like your door hinges, cabinet knobs, doorknobs, and door levels, can quickly make your space look dated. Give your home an instant facelift by replacing these items. You can replace most old hardware with a screwdriver, drill, screws, and wood putty. 

3. Service Your Ceiling Fans
   Did you know that you need to change the direction of your ceiling fans during the winter months? When the weather is cold, you want your ceiling fans to operate in a clockwise direction, so it pushes warm air down. You can adjust your ceiling fan's direction by using the direction switch on your fan's motor housing.
   
   While you're changing your fans' directions, give them a thorough dusting. Dust the fan blades with a microfiber cloth or duster that will prevent the dust from scattering. Wipe down the fan pulls with a damp cloth. 

4. Repair Any Wall Blemishes and Touch Up Your Paint
   If you've got some areas with scrapes or holes, winter is a fantastic time to patch these blemishes and touch up the paint. You'll be spending a lot of time indoors, and you want your home to look as inviting as possible.
   
   You can fix most small wall defects with a layer or two of spackling compound. Once it dries, sand the area smooth and add a fresh coat of paint.

5. Change the Batteries in Your Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
   Keep your family safe by changing the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Once the units have fresh batteries, test them to make sure they're working properly. If necessary, install additional detectors in your home.
   
   You should have a smoke detector in each bedroom, in the hall outside every sleeping area, and on each level of your home. There should be a carbon monoxide detector on each level of your home and in your garage. 

Ready to explore new properties for your family? Contact us today!

With 2021 fast approaching, we're excited to see what trends will catch on in the new year. With so many people spending extra time on home projects in 2020, we're expecting even more homeowners to take on home improvement projects to make their home extra special for themselves or to get it ready to list. Our real estate agents were so inspired by these St. Louis homes for sale, they decided to put together a list of their predictions for what trends you can expect to see more of in 2021. 

1. Coastal Themes
   Tranquility is going to be a very popular theme in 2021, especially considering the year we had. Many of us were forced to skip our beach vacations in 2020, so it wouldn't be surprising to see subtle coastal design themes pop-up in homes this year. Whether it's tropical leaves or flowers or the right mix of calming aquas and blues, pay attention to calming coastal design trends in 2021. This is a great option for those who love the beach and are looking to personalize their home office. 
   
   
2. Rustic Vogue
   For those who like a charming look mixed with a bit of upscale character, rustic vogue is definitely going to be the design trend for you. This look is usually best in homes that already have some rustic character, such as old doors or original floorboards. Simply add some upscale furniture, neutral colors, and some bright statement pieces to create that upscale cottage feel. To achieve this look, be sure to check out thrift stores for that one-of-a-kind look!
   
   
3. Pure Vintage
   Vintage designs and timeless looks will always be in style. Working antique furniture or pieces of architectural salvage into your living space is a great way to create a classic look. They really don't make furniture like they used to, so repurposing old pieces can really make a statement in your home.
   
   
4. Textured Walls
   We expect to see textured walls continue to increase in popularity next year. Stone, marble, and wooden beams all significantly impact perception and can really add a classy touch to any room. Textured walls change the ambiance of the room in a big way. Best of all, they're generally easy to install and can hide cracks, dents, and holes in your drywall.
   
   
5. Houseplants
   Get ready to step up your house plant game in 2021 because they're coming back in a big way. Retro 1970's hangers, unique succulents, and big blooms -- adding some green into your living space can definitely liven things up. They can also go a long way towards boosting your mood. Just make sure you buy plants that require little maintenance and are hard to kill.

Looking for a new home in the area for you to try new home improvement projects on in 2021? Contact us today!