If you’re looking for something fun to do this weekend, check out these area events:

Friday, May 24^th: Lightship Overfalls Opening Party & Auction
This year celebrates the 75^th birthday for “Big Red,” the historic lightship in Lewes.  This fabulous annual party will take place from 6pm-9pm at the Virden Center on the University of Delaware Marine Campus.  Tickets are $40 in advance or $45 at the door until they are sold out.  This event is a great kick-off to the summer season and includes food and drink, games, raffles, silent and live auctions and more.  For more information or to purchase tickets, check out the Overfalls website.

Saturday, May 25^th: Horseshoe Crab & Shorebird Festival
This annual event is hosted by the Milton Chamber of Commerce and will run from 10am-4pm at Milton Memorial Park.  This will be the tenth year for the festival, which boast over 1500 visitors yearly.  The day includes arts and crafts, boat rides on the Broadkill River, canoe trips on Prime Hook Creek, games, food, music, trail walks, kids’ train rides, a scavenger hunt, and more!  A shuttle bus is available to transport guests to and from the Refuge.  For more information contact 302-684-1101.

Saturday, May 25^th: Historic Lewes Farmer’s Market
Don’t forget that the Historic Lewes Farmer’s Market is now open for the season.  See more details in this post.

Saturday, May 25^th-Monday, May 27^th: Maritime Weekend
Celebrate maritime weekend all weekend long at the Zwaanendael Museum in Historic Lewes.  For more information call 302-645-1148.

Thinking of buying or selling a home in Sussex County?  Give us a call at Cooper Realty Associates and put us to work for you — 302-644-2266.

Today’s food for thought is from James Bryce:  “Three-fourths of the mistakes a man makes are made because he does not really know what he thinks he knows.”  (Fred)  “Make sure you have all the facts or as many as possible on both sides of the issue before making a decision.”

Fred’s pick of the day is MLS # 603801-From $114,900 to $109,900.  A 3 BR, 1BA older home in Seaford, DE that has 1150 sq. ft. on .39 acre with new carpet, paint, and septic.  There is also a 24’ x30’ garage pole building with a lean-to.  Call me @302 258-6983 to see this home.  www.fedsporch.com

When you are buying a home, the industry standard is a 30-year mortgage.  However, if you can swing it there are definite advantages to a 15 year mortgage instead.  The biggest benefit of a fifteen-year mortgage is, of course, that you pay your home off in half the time and wind up saving a lot of money in interest.  In addition you will also accumulate equity in your home faster as you pay off the principal, which could free you up to take out a home equity loan if needed.  Of course, you shouldn’t bury yourself to be able to afford a fifteen-year mortgage.  Remember that you don’t want to spread yourself too thin… your home should not be your only source of savings.  You also want to make sure you can save for retirement and emergencies each month.

Thinking of buying or selling a home in Sussex County?  Give us a call at Cooper Realty Associates and put us to work for you – 302-644-2266.

Today’s food for thought is from Charles Buxton:  “You will never find time for anything.  If you want time you must make it.”  (Fred)  “If time is required, make sure you set it aside.”

Fred’s Pick of the day is MLS # 603412-From $850,000 to $799,900.  An inverted floor plan home in Rehoboth Beach, DE has 5 BR, 2 BA, 2 half baths, in 2544 sq. ft. on .90 acres boasts a deep water dock, a large granite kitchen in an open floor plan.  Call me at 302 258-6983 to see this home.  www.fredsporch.com

The Historic Lewes Farmers Market opened for the season last week and will be open every Saturday until the end of September.  Most Saturdays the farmer’s market is at the Historical Society (110 Shipcarpenter Street), but on June 22^nd, July 13^th, and August 3^rd the market will move to the Shields Elementary School parking lot (910 Shields Ave.).  Vendors sell everything, including fresh beef & pork, homemade jellies and jams, fruits, veggies, organic baked goods, gourmet cheese, and more.  For a full list of vendors, check out this list.  It is definitely worth checking out, although you should leave your pets at home because they are not allowed.

Thinking of buying or selling a home in Sussex County?  Give us a call at Cooper Realty Associates and put us to work for you – 302-644-2266.

Today’s food for thought is from Miyamato Musashi:  “Perceive that which cannot be seen with the eye.”  (Fred)  “The eye is not to be always trusted and must be used in conjunction with the brain.”

Fred’s pick of the day is MLS # 600470 From $449,900 to $399,000.  A Stately Colonial in Seaford DE with 4 BR, 3.5 BA in 4100 sq. ft. on 1.65 acres boasts a 4KW solar electric, a 7500 KW generator, a heated salt water pool, music room, 2 master suites and is directly on Patrick’s Pond.  Call me to see this home at 302 258-6983.  www.fredsporch.com

I’ve been talking a lot about remodeling this week, and today’s post is no different.  If you’re considering a remodel here are five steps to help you succeed:

1.  Do your research.  See yesterday’s post for several questions you should ask and do your own research before you even begin.

2.  Get your money straight.  Remodeling can be a big task with a seemingly endless cost attached to it.  Before you begin any work be sure that you have a reasonable budget for the kind of work you want and that your financing is completely in order.  Going back to number one, this is something you should research to determine what your best options are.

3.  Get estimates.  Ask for recommendations from friends, family, and others that you know and then get in-person estimates from multiple designers, contractors, and anyone else you might employ.  Ask for references and examples of work.

4.  Consider the details.  Make as many decisions as possible before you project begins.  Even the smallest details will cost you time and money once your remodel is under way.

5.  Plan for the unforeseen.  There is no such thing as a perfect renovation and the unexpected can throw a wrench in even the best plans and even the most generous budget in the trash.  Plan to cushion your budget by at least twenty percent from the beginning so that you are prepared if (often more likely, when) these things happen to you.

Thinking of buying or selling a home in Sussex County?  Give us a call at Cooper Realty Associates and put us to work for you – 302-644-2266.

If you are thinking of remodeling your kitchen or any other part of your home here are three questions you should ask yourself before you start anything:

1.  What is the purpose of this remodel?  Do you want a fresh look, completely new function, or a serious overhaul?

2.  What is most important?  Create a list of your priorities in the order of their importance to you before you begin and you will have a much easier time making budget choices in the long run.

3.  What investment can I afford?  Regardless of your personal budget, consider the value of the other homes nearby and the current value of your own home.  Over spending may give you the results you want immediately, but it might not be the best long term investment, so be sure to consider your options.

Thinking of buying or selling a home in Sussex County?  Give us a call at Cooper Realty Associates and put us to work for you – 302-856-6434.

If you’re looking for something to do this weekend, check out this list of local events:

All Weekend:  30^th Annual Rehoboth-Dewey Sidewalk Sale
The Rehoboth Beach-Dewey Beach Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center will run from 9am-9pm from Friday through Sunday.  Individual stores may operate at different times though.  For more information call the Chamber at 302-227-2233.

Friday, May 17^th – Remember Lewes
As part of the Lewes Historical Society’s “Remembering Lewes” series Churck Fithian will bring his extensive knowledge to the Lewes Historical Society when he presents a program about Delaware’s role in the War of 1812.  The program runs from 7:30pm-9pm and will be held at the Lewes Presbyterian Church Fellowship Hall on Kings Highway.  Everyone is invited to attned this free educational event.

Saturday, May 18^th – Youth Finish Tournament
The Friends of Cape Henlopen State Park will host their annual youth fishing tournament on Saturday from 8am-11am, with a rain date of Sunday, 5/19.  This tournament is open to all kids ages 16 and younger.  The entrance fee is $10 and the first 50 registrants receive a free t-shirt!  Prizes are awarded.

Saturday, May 18^th – Maritime Day 2013
Congress first declared Maritime Day in 1933, and the Cape May-Lewes ferry will honor that celebration on Saturday at the Lewes Ferry Terminal with a ceremony at 1pm.  Admission is free and includes engine room and bridge tours, maritime displays and more.  Food and drink will be available and the event will take place rain or shine.

Saturday, May 18^th – Pooches in the Park
If your four-legged friends are more like family, consider this event which will take place from 1pm-3pm on Saturday at Canalfront Park in Lewes.  The event features specialized and pet-friendly vendors, a doggie spa, agility and obedience demos, and more.  Admission is $5 per pup, but free for their two-legged friends and owners.  One dog per handler and all dogs must be on a non-retractable leash with a maximum length of six feet.

Sunday, May 19^th – Fitness ‘n Fun
Quest Fitness and Kayak is hosting its 2^nd annual “Fitness ‘n Fun from 8am-12pm in Canalfront Park in Lewes on Sunday morning.  This event is completely free and open to anyone.  Activities include yoga, book camp, pilates, zumba, kick boxing, spinning, Kids FIT, and more.  For a schedule of events and more information, check out this link.

Thinking of buying or selling a home in Sussex County?  Give us a call at Cooper Realty Associates and put us to work for you – 302-644-2266.

Dear Bryant,                                                              May 14, 2013

If you have a minute, I have an interesting story to tell.  I was having a nice day last Friday when I got an e-mail from one of my co-workers.  She stated that she got a call from a young lady who wanted to rent one of my listings.  The problem was the house is for sale not for rent.  She sent us the Craig’s List Listing. Lo and behold, it was my house and it was for rent for $880.00 plus a $400.00 security deposit.  The pictures and copy where mine and just cut and pasted onto the Craig’s List ad.

I told the young lady that the home was not for rent and do not send any money.  I thought about what to do.

The first thing I did was to contact Craig’s List and told them about the scam.  They pulled the ad by Monday when I checked again.  On Monday I called the Delaware State Police, they said it was a crime but I had to contact the Seaford Police.  They promptly came to my office and took my report.  About an hour later they called me and said that it was a crime but I should contact the Federal Trade Commission.

Today I received another call form a consumer who wanted to rent the house and asked about the request to wire the deposit and security deposit.  I told him it was a scam and do not send the money.  I then called the FTC and made a complaint to them.  I gave the name, email address, and phone number of the scammer to them.  She said thank you and gave me a complain number.  She also said I should contact the State attorney General’s Office.  I called the Consumer Protection Unit of the Delaware Attorney’s office and repeated my story.

Everyone I contacted was polite and professional.  My concern is that I had to make contact with 4 different government agencies.  Only the FTC gave me any reference number about my complaint and she didn’t even want the address for the property.

My expectations for a successful apprehension of the scammer have dropped considerably.  He will continue until he is caught, in the meantime how many unsuspecting people will be scammed out of their money?

The Internet is a good thing to everyone, including scammers.  Never wire money to anyone you don’t know.  If the deal is too good to be true in usually is a scam.  Buyer and renter BEWARE!!!

Fred Sponseller

Realtor-Seaford DE

Today’s food for thought is from Millard Fillmore:  “May God save the country, for it is evident that the people will not.”  (Fred)  “Today the people have thrown the country under the bus; we need that divine help now.”

Fred’s pick of the day is MLS # 602961- From $585K to 549K.  A lovely open concept home in Bethany Beach DE, which has 5 BR, 3BA and a sunroom overlooking a Golf Course.  Call me to see this home @ 302 258-6983  www.fredsporch.com. 

Yesterday I talked about kitchen makeovers, but the thing about totally redoing a kitchen is that it can be very pricy.  If you’re wanting to give your kitchen a face lift in a more budget-friendly way, consider some of the following suggestions.

Stick to the Ws.  Window and walls that is.  There are basically endless options for wall coverings that can be easily cleaned.  A fresh coat of paint can do wonders for a room!  Changing up the window treatments can also give the room a whole different feel.

Keep what you have.  Installing new cabinets can be expensive, but your whole kitchen can feel like new if you refinish your existing cabinets.  Just make sure you do your research and use high-quality prep products.

Repurpose other pieces.  Consider using an armoire as a pantry or a unique table as an island.  Repurposing individual pieces of furniture can save you money and add interest to an otherwise neutral room.

Appliances only.  If you have some money to work with, but not enough for a full makeover, consider replacing only your appliances.  Especially if they are showing signs of wear and tear.  And remember that appliances can be expensive if you get all the fancy gadgets, but basic appliances that will fit your requirements can be just as nice if you are on a budget.

Thinking of buying or selling a home in Sussex County?  Give us a call at Cooper Realty Associates and put us to work for you – 302-629-6693.

Today’s food for thought is from Miyamato Musashi:  “Do nothing which is of no use.”  (Fred)  “Only do things that have value.”

Fred’s Pick of the Day is MLS # 601981-From $129,900 to 124,900.  A Delmar DE, doublewide that has 3 BR, 2 BA, in 1568 Sq. Ft. on a 1.06 Acre lot.  Call me to see this home at 302 258-6983. www.fredsporch.com  

It is no secret that kitchens and bathrooms sell homes, but they are also the centerpieces of family life too.  A kitchen makeover can give your home a whole different feel.  Whether you want a kitchen update to help sell your home faster or just to enjoy yourself, here are some helpful tips for design planning.

Plan for space.  Kitchen design pros recommend walkways of at least 36 inches in all kitchen areas with 42 inch pathways in cooking areas and more if there is more than one cook.

Plan for traffic.  Place the refrigerator accessible to anyone wandering in looking for a drink, but still convenient to cooking and cleanup areas.

Plan your corners.  Keep all cabinets and appliances fully functional by planning space for the doors clearance and swing.  Keep appliances away from corners and make sure doors won’t bang into each other if they are open at the same time.

Plan your landings.  Landing space is work space for cooking.  There should be a minimum of 15 inches of counter space on each side of the refrigerator and stove top as well as 15 inches near the microwave.

Thinking of buying or selling a home in Sussex County?  Give us a call at Cooper Realty Associates and put us to work for you – 302-644-2266.

Today’s food for thought is from Benjamin Franklin:  “To lengthen life, lessen thy meals.”  (Fred)  “A man of many talents, old Ben hits the nail on the head again.”

Fred’s pick of the day is MLS # 602860-From $129,000 to $120,000.  A rancher in Georgetown DE, which has 2 BR, 1 BA on .35 acre, which boasts hardwood floors, built-in /corner cabinets, arched doorways, and a corner lot.  Please call me to see this home at 302 258-6983. www.fredsporch.com  

Mother’s Day is tomorrow.  If you left planning until the last minute, you may be in luck. In addition to my suggestions from Thursday and Friday, here are a few more for all the last minutes planners out there.  You should definitely call right away for reservations though!  Happy Mother’s Day to all you moms out there!

In Bethany Beach
The Cottage Café  – a la carte brunch options from 10am-2pm
Patsy’s – brunch, southern-style cuisine 10am-2pm (121 Campbell Place)

In Fenwick Island
The Cove at Bayside Golf Club – brunch, $17.95, $7.95, under 12
Nantucket’s – dinner, 3pm-9pm, $19 dinner special

Interested in buying or selling a home in Sussex County?  Give us a call at Cooper Realty and let us help you make your dream a reality – 302-856-6434.

Yesterday I posted 3 suggested locations for Mother’s Day Brunch in the area.  Today, I’ve got five more for you – all in Rehoboth Beach!  Don’t forget to make reservations!

Victoria’s at the Boardwalk Plaza Hotel
Tea at Victoria’s would be a great way to celebrate Mother’s Day, or if tea isn’t your thing, Victoria’s is known for serving a delicious brunch as well!  302-227-7169

Nage
Nage is an award winning eatery with multiple locations.  The Rehoboth Beach location is known amongst the locals as the place to enjoy a scrumptious dining experience.  Their Sunday Brunch is affordable and immensely popular, and I’m sure Mother’s Day will be no different!  302-226-2037

Blue Moon
Blue Moon has been a Rehoboth Beach staple for over 30 years.  Sunday brunch is served from 10:30am-2pm and each week features a different delicious menu – I dare say the menu on Mother’s Day will be decadent!  302-227-6515

The Back Porch
Serving delicious home cooked food in Rehoboth for over 36 years, if you’ve never enjoyed Mother’s Day brunch at The Back Porch Café, now is your chance!  With an a la carte brunch menu full of mouth-watering choices, you really can’t go wrong!  302-227-3674

The Summer House
If your mom is the type who likes something a little more low-key then brunch at Rehoboth Beach staple, The Summer House is the place to go.  With an extensive array of a la carte menu options, all at affordable prices, you can savor every bite!  302-227-3895

Thinking of buying or selling a home in Sussex County? Give us a call at Cooper Realty Associates and put us to work for you – 302-856-6434.

Today’s food for thought is from Benjamin Franklin:  “You may delay, but time will not.”  (Fred)  “Delays are sometimes unavoidable but procrastination is avoidable.”

Fred’s pick of the day is MLS #600661-From $325,000 to $279,000.  An end unit Townhome in Bear Trap, Ocean View DE, that has 4 BR, 3.5 BA in 2068 sq. ft. and has a finished basement with a family room, bath and 5^th bedroom.  The condo fee is $4500/yr.  Call me to see this home at 302 258-6983.  www.fredsporch.com

Mother’s Day is this Sunday, May 12^th. It’s coming up quickly!!! Do you have brunch reservations for your favorite mom? Here are three suggestions…

Magnolia’s Seafood Bar & Grill
Located in Ocean View and known for their quality seafood and great service, Magnolia’s is a great place to take Mom on her special day!  Their Mother’s Day Brunch will be served from 10am-2pm.  Featuring an omelet station, choice meats and hot entrees, a seafood station and of course, dessert you really can’t go wrong with this local favorite!  30415 Cedar Neck Road in Ocean View – 302-539-5671 – don’t forget to make reservations ahead of time!

Baywood Greens
Baywood Greens in Millsboro will be serving their elegant Mother’s Day Brunch Buffet in both their ballroom and clubhouse restaurant.  Ballroom seatings will be at 10am, 12:30pm, and 3pm and restaurant seatings will be at 11:30am and1:30pm.  Adults are priced at $29.95, children 6-12 at $17, and kids 5 and under eat free.  Reservations are required, and payment is due at the time of reservation.  302-947-9225

The Buttery
Some have called enjoying a meal at The Buttery “the ultimate culinary experience!”  Located in historic Lewes, the inviting atmosphere of this restaurant almost requires you to bring Mom in for a rich and relaxing experience!  Their brunch is ordered a la carte and is served with fresh fruit and pastries as well as a choice of champagne, mimosa, or bloody mary.  Typically priced at $22.95/person, it is unclear on whether they will be making any adjustments especially for Mother’s Day.  If it were up to me I’d make reservations just be on the safe side!  102 2^nd Street in Lewes – 302-645-7755.

Looking to buy or sell a home in Sussex County?  Give us a call at Cooper Realty Associates and put us to work for you – 302-644-2266!

If you’re looking for something to do this weekend, check out these local events:

Friday, 5/10: Lewes Lunch & Learn
Lewes Lunch & Learns run from 12pm-1pm at the Lewes Life-Saving Station at Shipcarpenter Street and the Canal.  The Lewes Historical Society will provide soft drinks, and you can bring your lunch for this month’s discussion on “The Life and Work of a Surfman in the US Life-Saving Service 1870s-1915.”  This is the last lunch & learn of the season.

Saturday, 5/11: Dewey Beach Arts Fest
Head to the corner of Dagsworthy Ave and the beach for the second annual Dewey Beach Arts Fest will feature over 60 vendors, crafters and local artists as well as live music, food, activities for kids, a silent auction, and more!  Parking and admission are free.  Arts Fest runs from 10am-5pm with a magic show at 11:30am and 1:30pm.  Rain date is Sunday, May 12^th.  For more information check out this link.

Saturday, 5/11:  Lewes Fire Department Auxiliary “Fire” and Plant Sale
The Lewes Fire Department Auxiliary is holding its 2^nd annual “fire sale” and Mother’s Day plant sale at Station 1 on Savannah Road from 9am-3pm.  In addition to plant there will be a variety of vendors selling gifts, crafts, candles, and more.  There will also be refreshments for sale.  For more information please contact the Auxiliary at LFDaux@gmail.com.

Saturday, 5/11:  Flowering Wonders
Head into Cape Henlopen State Park on Saturday for a class on flowering plants that will celebrate Mother Nature just in time for Mother’s Day!  The program is for anyone ages 5 and older.  The cost is $2 per person, but mothers attend for free!  For more information or to pre-register call 302-645-6852.

Thinking of buying or selling a home in Sussex County?  Give us a call at Cooper Realty Associates and put us to work for you – 302-644-2266.