Living the St. Louis Metro East Lifestyle with Bryan Vogt

View the Video version of this Episode at: https://www.bryanvogt.com/how-is-the-housing-market-fairing-in-the-4th-quarter/

Bryan Vogt here. In the past two years, we have seen double-digit increases in home prices, multiple offers, and sellers getting over the list time and time again. However, we are not seeing as many multiple offers as before in this 4th quarter and homes are staying on the market a little longer than before.

View the Video version of this Episode at: https://www.bryanvogt.com/what-is-a-great-way-to-celebrate-veterans-day/

What is a great way to celebrate Veterans Day?

Bryan Vogt here. Veterans day is not only a holiday for many, but it is also a great time to honor the fallen hero’s that help keep this great country of ours safe and free! However, it was originally called Armistice Day in honor of soldiers who died in World War I The war to end all wars. Unfortunately, that didn’t work out so well and after World War II the name was changed to Veterans Day to honor all who have ever worn the uniform.

This brings us to Jefferson Memorial Cemetery located in St Louis. It was founded in 1866 in honor of the fallen soldiers who died in the Civil War. It is also named after our third President Thomas Jefferson. With over 300 acres and where over a quarter of a million souls lie it is a sight to be seen.

The gravesites are meticulously cared for thru out the year. One of the most notable St Louisans that is buried there is the late great Jack Buck. Who became an icon for the St Louis Cardinals baseball team and who served as an army corporal in World War II.

This Veterans Day I hope you take a drive through Jefferson Memorial Cemetery to appreciate not only those who have served and those who gave their lives. But also remember the hundreds of thousands of veterans who have served and continue to serve this great country of ours!

Veterans Day would be a great time to reach out to anyone who has served and give them a genuine thank you for their service!

And to not miss another episode. Hit the subscribe button and ring that bell!

Until the next episode. Make it a great day!

reat way to celebrate Veterans Day?

What are 5 things I’ll bet you don’t know about Scott AFB?

View the Video version of this Episode at: https://www.bryanvogt.com/what-are-5-things-ill-bet-you-dont-know-about-scott-afb/

View the Video version of this Episode at: https://www.bryanvogt.com/where-is-the-only-place-to-get-the-perfect-pumpkin/

It's pumpkin season. And if you're looking for the perfect pumpkin, there's only one place to go. And guess what? I will show you.

If you're looking for the place, to get the perfect pumpkin and there's only one place to go, and that's from the Metro East St. Louis, or probably from a hundred miles away. And that is Eckert's in Belleville, Illinois. Everything to do with pumpkins, especially this time of year, they have whether you're wanting to go out and pick your own, which is extremely extremely popular with your family, with your grandkids, with whoever you want. If you want to get a yellow pumpkin or a white pumpkin are a small pumpkin, whatever size pumping you want, they have plus everything to go with it. They have everything that you could ever want this coming Halloween. Who doesn't want to carve up a beautiful Jack O' Lantern this time of year? 

I had my kids. my kids have taken their kids. It's perfect. But they have more than that. They also have rides fun things to do for the kids. And for the adults, they have an amazing restaurant. 

They can go into the country store for you find just about anything you need for the holidays. 

I can tell you right now, if Eckert's is a stop that if you haven't ever been to, then shame on you. You really need to check this place out. It's absolutely amazing with how it's just around the corner. But you want to make sure that you get out here way before the weekends, that's fantastic, but it's going to be a little crowded if you have the ability to get on weekday, maybe when the kids are after school.

This place is an amazing place for not only the kids but also for the grandparents.

They're going to absolutely love it. Make sure you get out today before Halloween because it's going to be a mad rush.

If you know anyone thinking about selling their home, have them give me a call. I would love love to help them until the next episode, make it a great day.

View the Video version of this Episode at: https://www.bryanvogt.com/pcsing-to-safb-and-concerned-about-finding-the-right-home-in-this-tight-market-heres-the-solution/

Military Buyer Protection Plan: https://www.bryanvogt.com/military-buyer-protection-plan/

Bryan Vogt here! First and most importantly I would like to thank you and your family for your service to our country. Second. Welcome to Scott Air Force Base you are going to absolutely love it here. So much so you may decide to stay permanently as 1000’s of our military families have done over the years!

I and my team have helped 100’s and 100’s of service members have a smooth PCSing buying experience to Scott air force Base! And even in this tight market, we have been able to guide them to success in finding not only the right home. But also, their desired school district and location they want.

But the severe housing shortage has been a concern to some of our Military friends. Our team does everything possible for our military friends to make that happen. But in the case, you Buy a home through the Bryan Vogt Group and if YOU Are Not Completely Satisfied within 6 Months, “WE’LL SELL IT FOR FREE!” That’s right. If you are not completely satisfied for any reason with your home we will sell it free. No questions asked! And help you buy your next home!. This is a kind offer that we call our Military Buyer Protection Program. There is a link down below to sign up today!

And just so you know! The Military Buyer Protection Program not only applies to active duty personal. But this program is for anyone who has ever worn the uniform. It is just another way we want to thank but better serve our veterans!

So whether you are PCSing in or a past veteran. Please click on the link down below to take advantage of the amazing program today!

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Until the next episode! Make it a great day!

View the Video version of this Episode at: https://www.bryanvogt.com/how-did-st-clair-mall-wind-up-in-fairview-heights/

Bryan Vogt here! St Clair Mall has been an iconic symbol in the St. Louis metro-east area for almost 50 years. With a wide variety of shopping and amazing restaurants for everyone to enjoy! However, the story of how the Mall landed in Fairview is what we are going to talk about in this episode!

First, it’s important to understand that in the 70’s all shopping thru out the entire area was done in each cities downtown area. And for the most part, they were all family-owned. So, the idea of a mall that could be stiff competition to local downtowns wasn’t something many city leaders were too keen about.

The first city the mall reached out to was Belleville. After all, it was and still is the largest city south of Springfield. The idea was to locate it near Belleville East high school. But because of the fear, it would have on the downtown merchants. Belleville said no.

After that, the mall went to Swansea Illinois, and wanted to locate it where the Swansea Schnucks is now right off 159. However, they did have one request and that was to straighten out Fullerton Lane. Fullerton lane at the time wasn’t the straight shot it is today! Back then it wasn’t anything close to being straight and was hardly ever used because of it. But Swansea politely said no to the request.

This leads us to the 3rd town the mall went to. O’Fallon Illinois! Being located right by where I 64 would be located. No, I 64 wasn’t there yet either. The mall thought this would be an ideal location for it. However, the city leaders were concerned about being able to supply the necessary water the mall would need and politely said no also.

Which leaves us to Fairview Heights. At the time they had just become a city and they were looking for a business to help grow their community. With that in mind and because of how close they were to I64. Fairview Height and St Clair Mall became the perfect match!

So now you know how St Clair Mall became an Iconic symbol for Fairview Heights!

Speaking a Fairview. I have helped countless clients buy and sell over the years there. In fact, I just sold another home just last week. If you know anyone looking to sell. Please have them contact me. I would love to help them!

To not miss another episode. Click on the subscribe button and ring that bell

Until the next episode! Make it a great day!

View the Video version of this Episode at: https://www.bryanvogt.com/what-are-5-amazing-questions-answered-about-the-belleville-oktoberfest-that-i-bet-you-dont-know/

Bryan Vogt here. The Oktoberfest just celebrated its 40th anniversary with great food, great music, and an amazing atmosphere that only this festival has. Not to mention all the activities and rides is has for the young and old. At the risk of dating myself, I was involved in the first-ever Oktoberfest, so I have some insights that most people don’t know about the event! With that. Here are the answers to 5 questions that I'll bet you don’t know about the Oktoberfest!

Question 1: Where did the idea come from to start an Oktoberfest? The Belleville Jaycees were the ones that spearheaded the first Oktoberfest. For the first 8 or 9 years, the Jaycees ran everything. The food stands, Beer stands, soda stands, and whatever was needed to put on the event. However, the idea and driving force behind it came from Tom Schrag. At the time Tom was a Past President of the Jaycees and on a visit to Lacrosse Wisconsin, the headquarters of Stag beer at the time. He saw his first Oktoberfest and thought this kind of event would be great for Belleville!

Question 2: What was the name of the first Oktoberfest? It was called the Belleville Stag Oktoberfest. Since Stag brewery was still operating at the time it was decided, with some fierce debate at first to only have Stag beer for the event. And even though it meant with some resistance. In the end, it was the right call! And not until 1989 when the city of Belleville approached the Jaycees to combine the cities 175th birthday celebration with the Oktoberfest were other beers sold at the event and the name changed to the Belleville Oktoberfest

Question 3 What month was the first Oktoberfest held! Why October of course! Why would you hold an event called the Oktoberfest in any other month?

But maybe a better question is question number 4. Why did the event move to September? The event was held on the first weekend of October for the first 3 years, but mother nature wasn’t cooperating. So much so that on the 3rd year the event was virtually rained out for the entire weekend. So, it was decided to move it to the third weekend in September. But this caused another problem. How can you run an Oktoberfest in September? And that is exactly what Tom Schrag was asked by a reporter. And off the top of his head that he just made up, he said our harvest comes in earlier than other parts of the country. The reporter printed and the rest is history. But now you know the real reason it's in September!

And finally question number 5. What was the real purpose behind starting the Oktoberfest? It was so the Jaycees could build a park in Belleville for the entire community. And that my friend was Tom Schrag's idea There many other Jaycees along the way that helped. But Tom was the driving force for not only the Oktoberfest. That is the go-to event of the year. Where other civics groups raise 10’s thousands of dollars that they put back right into the community. But also,

after decades of twists and turns. Tom’s vision of having a Belleville Jaycee Park finally came to be. Where countless kids and grownups for generations to come will be able to enjoy!

So maybe if you know Tom. Or maybe if you don't. The next time you see him you might want to give him a handshake and a big thank you for making the Oktoberfest and the park a reality. Or maybe just buy him a Stag beer!

To not miss another episode! Hit the subscribe button and ring that bell!

Until the next episode. Make it a great day!

View the Video version of this Episode at: https://www.bryanvogt.com/move-over-herman-mo-why-the-metro-east-has-you-covered-for-wineries/

Bryan Vogt here. Many years ago if you wanted to visit a winery the only place to go was Herman Missouri. But that has all changed in the past few years with amazing wineries popping up thru throughout the entire metro-east! In this episode, I want to pick three of my all-time favorites!

1. The Weingarten located in Belleville is a great place to Enjoy a relaxing winery atmosphere nestled on acres of beautiful countryside Wine & Beer Tastings! Food! Live Music! Indoor/Outdoor Seating! A place where you can unwind and relax with friends or that special someone while sampling amazing wines! The service is top-notch and you haven’t been there yet. Why not? Do yourself a favor and make this a must-visit this weekend!

2. Schorr Lake Vineyards Winery in Waterloo Illinois. Sits on a beautiful lake will you not only be able to relax with friends while enjoying an amazing glass of wine. But also listen to live music while taking in all the beauty of nature. With a huge assortment of wines to choose from and amazing staff. If you haven’t paid a visit there yet. Make sure you do it soon!

3. Hidden Lake Winery in Aviston Illinois is not only an amazing winery with there many award-winning wines. But it is so much more! Looking for an amazing setting to have your wedding and reception? Hidden Vallery has you covered with fantastic amenities to suit the most finicky brides. With breathtaking views and superior service from the staff!. If you are looking to enjoy great wine at an amazing location. Hidden Lake is your place!

Having sold tons of homes in Belleville, Waterloo, and Aviston! If you are looking to buy or sell in any of these areas. Please give me a call. I would love to help you!

And if you don’t want to miss another episode! Then click on the subscribe button and ring that bell!

Until the next episode! Make it a great day!

What are 3 proven strategies to have amazing success with a VA loan in this crazy market? - https://www.bryanvogt.com/what-are-3-proven-strategies-to-have-amazing-success-with-a-va-loan-in-this-crazy-market/

Bryan Vogt here! For almost two decades I have worked with hundreds and hundreds of military buyers, and I can tell you this market is none like I or any other agent has seen. Having said that though I believe it’s up to the agents to help find solutions for our clients instead of how far too many agents are throwing up their hands and saying nothing can be done for our veterans when buying!

With that said here are 3 proven ways, VA buyers are having great success buying homes in this crazy market!

1. Even though it may seem that every home has multiple offers and sells in days. The simple fact is there are more than a few homes out there that don’t sell as soon as they hit the market! Maybe they're still on the market after 2 weeks or maybe up to a month. These can be great homes to buy! However, Even though they have been on the market a little longer. In most cases, you still should plan on paying full price. But chances are good if you act fast, you won’t have competition and you will win the day.

2. Consider opening up your areas of search. Mascoutah O’Fallon Shiloh was a hot market before the housing shortage started. And now they're even hotter if that’s possible. By expanding your searches to cities like Belleville, Fairview, and Collinsville to name a few. You will probably be looking at getting more bang for your buck in your home than you would in hotter markets. And a good chance you will have more buying power at a lower price point Often in these markets there is not as much competition but if there is. The type of loan is a factor but so is price and veterans will be in a better position to consider offering over asking and still staying within their budget to get their home!

3. Look to buy what you like and learn to love it. The home may not be in pristine condition and needs some love. Maybe it has a bonus room instead of a third or fourth bedroom and the location is a little further from the base or maybe a lot further than you would like. The good news is that chances are there will be little or no competition and that will allow you to win out in your new home!

And even though at the Bryan Vogt group we do everything possible to get the right home for our military friends. Just in case that doesn’t happen. We are the only group in the metro-east that offers a Military Protection Plan. Buy a home through the Bryan Vogt Group and if YOU Are Not Completely Satisfied within 6 Months, “WE’LL SELL IT FOR FREE!” so you can buy the home that you really want!

To not miss another episode Hit the subscribe button and ring that bell!

Until the next episode! Make it a great day!

View the Video version of this Episode at: https://www.bryanvogt.com/here-are-3-things-i-bet-you-dont-know-about-edwardsville-illinois/

Bryan Vogt here! Most people know about the amazing college and school systems located in Edwardsville. And they probably know that it is also the county seat of Madison County! And some history buffs may know that Edwardsville was founded the same year that Illinois became a state in 1818.

But here are three fun facts I bet you don’t know about Edwardsville Illinois

1. Scenes from the 2007 film The Lucky Ones starring Tim Robbins were filmed in downtown Edwardsville. However, the scene filmed for the movie was set in Denver Colorado. So the film crew set up banners thru out the downtown that said welcome to Denver!

2. Abe Lincoln slept here! If you’re from around here, like I am, you know that almost everyone claims that President Lincoln slept in their town. In truth, there is no evidence that Honest Abe actually slept here. But he did give a speech on Nov 11 1858 and was at the reception for him that was hosted in downtown Edwardsville so???

3. Singer-songwriter legend Jackson Browne recorded "Cocaine" and "Shaky Town" in the Edwardsville's Holiday Inn. In-Room 124[22] for his album Running on Empty. How cool is that! The Holiday Inn has since been torn down and rebuilt as a Comfort Suites.

These are just 3 fun facts that I bet you didn’t know about Edwardsville! But I bet there is something you do know and that is how crazy the housing market is in Edwardsville. If you know someone looking to buy or sell. Have them give me a call! I would love to help them!

To not miss another episode! Hit the subscribe button and ring that bell!

Until the next episode! Make it a great day!