Sussex County Real Estate Matters – Affecting Seaford, Georgetown, Lauel, Milton, Delmar, Bridgevil
Today’s food for thought is from Dolly Madison: “It is one of my sources of happiness never to desire knowledge of other people’s business.” “I the information age this is almost impossible.” Fred
Fred’s pick of the Day is MLS # 593318. This 3BR, 2BA, 6 year old Class C in Country Glen, Bridgeville, DE has been reduced to $124,900. At this price, the home is a good pick. Call me if you want to see it @ 302 258-6983. Fred
go fish! a british fish + chips shop on Rehoboth Avenue in Rehoboth Beach serves up British comfort food with style at prices that are wallet friendly…
go fish! a british fish + chips shop on Rehoboth Avenue in Rehoboth Beach serves up British comfort food with style at prices that are wallet friendly. They’ve been called “the best dinner in Rehoboth” by The Today Show and “…one of the shore’s best eats” by The Washington Post. Delaware Today called it a “best value meal” and also gave it the “best fish and chips” label in its Best of Delaware annual review. This restaurant quite obviously serves up great fish and chips, but they also serve up other British favorites such as bangers and mash, shepherd’s pie, and their famous sticky toffee pudding.
If British food isn’t your thing, you might opt for the highly praised crab cakes, soft-shell crabs, fish tacos, or Maryland clam chowder. And if that’s not enough for you, they also serve up some yummy steak and chicken dishes.
go fish! is so well loved that owner, Alison Blyth recently opened a second shop in Lewes — this little sister to go fish! is called go brit! fish + chips and serves up all the delicious dishes that made go fish! so wildly popular!
So head into Rehoboth or Lewes today and see why everyone is raving about go fish! And while you’re there, don’t forget to order some sticky toffee pudding!
Looking to buy or sell a home in Rehoboth, Lewes, or the surrounding areas? Give us a call at Cooper Realty Associates and put us to work for you – 302-644-2266!
Today’s food for thought is by Samuel Rutherford: “Those who have least to do are generally the most busy people in the world.” “These people make work for themselves, and get little accomplished but can make themselves a pain in the neck for others.” Fred
Fred’s pick of the Day is MLS # 593309. This bank owned Gem is outside Laurel, DE by Trap Pond State Park and has been reduced to $189,000. The home has 4BR, 2.5BA, and 2350 sq. ft., sits on .81 acres and is only 6 years old. Call if you want to see it, 302 258-6983. Fred
Interested in buying a foreclosed home? In today’s market foreclosures can be a valid option for many homebuyers. Unfortunately, there are many popular myths about buying bank-owned homes that make it difficult to really understand the foreclosure process. If you’re thinking of purchasing a foreclosed home, here are five things you should keep in mind…
Interested in buying a foreclosed home? In today’s market foreclosures can be a valid option for many homebuyers. Unfortunately, there are many popular myths about buying bank-owned homes that make it difficult to really understand the foreclosure process. If you’re thinking of purchasing a foreclosed home, here are five things you should keep in mind:
1. Foreclosure Doesn’t Equal Cheap
Many homebuyers believe that they will pay less for a foreclosed home than for a similar home that is not bank owned. Because banks want these homes sold quickly, it is true that they are usually priced slightly under comparable properties, but the key word here is slightly. A foreclosed home might be a “steal” compared to what the former owner’s once paid, but it is likely that compared to similar homes in today’s market the price is not such a steep bargain. You should also keep in mind that foreclosures often (not always, but often) need some work, so you should factor those costs in when consider price. Shop around and compare foreclosures to similar homes for sale on the open-market. The foreclosure you have your eye on might be a great deal, but don’t believe that it is just because it’s a foreclosure, do your homework!
2. Be Aware That All Foreclosures Are Sold “As Is”
Generally speaking foreclosures are owned by sellers who have never even seen the home (the bank). This means that the home has most likely been vacant for some time, and the general care and maintenance of the home has not been kept up. This could mean anything from a broken window to a leaky roof to termites or mold. Keep in mind that banks will not want to issue the buyer credits the way a normal seller would, so if you’re interested in a foreclosure you need an agent who is aggressive and experienced when it comes to working with banks.
3. Don’t Lowball
Banks understand the value of the homes they are trying to offload and it is does not make good business sense for them to accept an offer that is significantly less than market value. Think about it: if you had a million dollars sitting in a checking account, you wouldn’t sell something for $1,000 when you know if you wait for a month or two you can get $2,000 or even $3,000 – you just don’t need the money that badly! That’s the position the bank is in. Although it is true that banks do not want to own these properties, it is also true that they are not desperate enough to give them away at steeply discounted prices. In fact, they want these homes to sell at as a high a price as possible in order to cut their losses. So if you’re seriously interested in a foreclosed home, be sure to offer a fair price. A lowball offer will most likely be trashed.
4. You Can’t Cheat The System
A lot of people believe that if they can purchase the foreclosure straight from the bank before it goes on the market, they will get a better deal. However, banks have no interest in handling business this way. Why would they? It is in their best interest to get the best price for the property and that means putting it on the market and seeing what kinds of offers come in. If you really want to purchase a foreclosed home before it hits the market, you’re going to have to pay cash at auction.
5. Get The Home Inspected
Many people believe that buying a foreclosed home means that they have to forego inspection. It’s true that if you’re buying the home at auction you will not have the opportunity to have it inspected, however if you’re purchasing a foreclosed home that is for sale on the open market you can and should have that home inspected. Even though you will be responsible for paying the inspector and fully funding any repairs that need to be made (if you go through with the purchase), it is ultimately in your best interest to have the home inspected.
Are you in the market for a new home, foreclosed or otherwise? Give us a call at Cooper Realty Associates and put us to work for you – 302-644-2266!
When you are looking to sell your home, the most important relationship to cultivate is the one with your agent. A local agent who is smart, prepared, and aggressive can be the difference between making settlement and continuing to make mortgage payments. Here are 3 reasons that you should consider listing your home with a Cooper Realty agent…
When you are looking to sell your home, the most important relationship to cultivate is the one with your agent. A local agent who is smart, prepared, and aggressive can be the difference between making settlement and continuing to make mortgage payments. Although you should keep in mind that agents are not magicians, (even the best agent is not going to be able to sell a home that is not market friendly when it comes to price and preparation), working with one is definitely in your best interest as a seller. Here are 3 reasons that you should consider listing your home with a Cooper Realty agent:
1. We know what people are looking for.
Cooper Realty agents work with a lot of people looking to buy in the area and have seen a lot of local homes. We’ve seen it all, and we know what sells and what doesn’t! I’m sure you’ve heard that when you’re trying to sell your home it is important to find “comparables.” At Cooper Realty we have seen those comparables first-hand and will translate that experience into advice on how to best price, stage, and market your home.
2. We know how to market in this area.
Agents at Cooper Realty know the protocol of selling a home in this area and can use it to your advantage as a seller. For example, we know what day/time is best to hold an open house in the area that you are trying to sell.
3. We know people.
Agents at Cooper Realty will get the word out about your home in a way that nobody else can. We have been through this process before and have relationships with other agents, inspectors, appraisers, and lenders that might come in handy. Local agents (such as those at Cooper Realty) are also likely to be members of the Chamber of Commerce, a school board, town council, or other local agency. We also have friends, neighbors, colleagues, and acquaintances in the area. All of these networks can potentially translate into more traffic for your home.
Now that you know why you should list your home with a local agent, give Cooper Realty Associates a call and let us help you get your home on the market! We are Southern Delaware’s best local agents – we know what people are looking for, how to market it, and we have the contacts that can get your home sold! Call us today – 302-644-2266!
Today’s food for thought from Maimonides: “The risk of a wrong decision is preferable to the terror of indecision.” “All too often we study things to death, when you act you can then react to the unintended consequences.” Fred ANY OTHER THOUGHTS!
Fred’s Pick of the Day is MLS # 593294. This home is located in Woodland Station, Seaford, DE a truly beautiful neighborhood, and only $249,900. The home sits on 1.14 acres and has 3BR, 2BA in 2866 sq. ft. and some nice upgrades. Call me to see this gem @ 302 258-6983.
Looking for something to do the weekend of March 30th? Here are a few great options…
Looking for something to do this weekend? Here are a few great options:
If you want to support a great cause, Friday, March 30th will be the annual “Beef and Brew” to support Delaware Hospice. This even will be from 6:30pm-10:30pm at the Georgetown CHEER Center (20520 Sand Hill Road, Georgetown). Tickets are $30 if you get them today, and $35 after that. For more information click here.
Saturday, March 31st: Spring Craft Fair and Bake Sale at Lakeside Community Center (Pot Nets Lakeside, Long Neck Road) 8am-3pm – parking and admission are free
Saturday, March 31st: Community Indoor Garage and Bake Sale at the Lewes Senior Center – 8am-1pm.
Saturday, March 31st: If you have kids or grandkids that are 10 & younger, bring them out to the Children’s Easter Party at American Legion Post 17 (American Legion Road, Lewes). 12pm-2pm.
Saturday, March 31st-Sunday, April 1st: The 15th Annual Delaware Resorts Home Expo – Saturday 9am-6pm, Sunday 10am-4pm; for more information click here.
And finally, if you haven’t caught Clear Space Theater’s production of My Fair Lady, this is your last chance to do so. The show closes on April 1st, so head down to Clear Space (20 Baltimore Ave, Rehoboth Beach) and watch the love story between odd couple Eliza Doolittle and Professor Higgins unfold!
And if you’d rather go house hunting this weekend, give us a call at Cooper Realty Associates — 302-644-2266!
Fred’s Pick of the Day is MLS # 59145. This restored Colonial has 4BR, 2BA, and a nice in town location. The asking price is only $110,000.00. Call me if you want to see it at 302 258-6983. Fred
Today’s food for thought is from Baltasar Gracian: “Be content to act, and leave the talking to others.” “Usually how things get done, however talking uncovers unforeseen problems.” Fred
Are you looking for a great home in a beautiful active adult community? Look no further! Heritage Shores is Delaware’s premiere active adult community. And right now this lovely 2 bed, 2 bath home (MLS #586917) at Heritage Shores can be yours…
Are you looking for a great home in a beautiful active adult community? Look no further! Heritage Shores is Delaware’s premiere active adult community. And right now this lovely 2 bed, 2 bath home (MLS #586917) at Heritage Shores can be yours. This home is 1,410 square feet, set on a corner lot, is fully furnished, and contains many top of the line upgrades! In addition to an awesome golf club, this 55+ community features a community center, game room, bike trail, tennis courts, and putting green. This home is listed for $229,900 and really does include a golf cart! For more details and a lot of pictures, check out this link.
Interested in this gem of a home? Give us a call at Cooper Realty today – 302-644-2266!
Fred’s Pick of the Day is MLS # 583897. This townhome in the Villas of Bethany West is now offered at $299,900. This 3BR, 2.5BA, 1600 sq. ft. town home has a view of Duck Pond, access to Salt Pond, a wood burning fireplace and is close to the Ocean. Owner gets a parking permit on the Ocean side of Route 1. Call me to see this townhome at 302 258-6983. Fred
Today’s food for thought is from J.P. Morgan: “If you have to ask how much it costs, you can’t afford it.” “Even rich people like to know that there is value for their money.” Fred
After you’ve found your dream home comes the scary part… inspection! Home inspections are meant to educate the buyer about the home they are interested in and ultimately give them piece of mind about the decision they make….
After you’ve found your dream home comes the scary part… inspection! Home inspections are meant to educate the buyer about the home they are interested in and ultimately give them piece of mind about the decision they make. Inspections are scary because they are not intended to uncover every nitty gritty detail about the house, so even a home that passes inspection with flying colors still might have an issue that was undetected. Home inspectors are not always able to pinpoint specific problems, but they are trained to examine the details of a home and determine if there might be any serious underlying issues. At the very least, a home inspector should be able to suggest that you get the expert opinion of a plumber, electrician, or other specialized contractor if they feel there might be a problem. When the home you love is being inspected, you should keep in mind that there are many problems that are fairly easy and cost efficient to take care of – these types of issues can even be bargaining chips in your negotiations with the seller. There are several key problems, however, that can be a matter of safety. If your inspector reports any of the following issues, you definitely want to keep in mind that these can be very costly and time consuming to fix. Here are the issues that might cause you to reconsider the house, or at least reconsider how much you are willing to pay for it, considering you will most likely have costly repairs to make:
In addition to finding out whether or not the home is plagued with any big problems like these, you should also be sure to find out how old the roof is, how old the furnace and water heater are and the condition they are in, whether or not the routine maintenance of the house appears to have been kept up, and whether or not the home’s exterior has proper drainage, which is especially important if the home has a basement.
Thinking of buying or selling a home? Give us a call at Cooper Realty Associates and put us to work for you – 302-644-2266!
Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, the “Nation’s Summer Capital” is located about 30 miles north of Ocean City, Maryland. The two cities have many of the same beachy charms, but Rehoboth Beach wins the “which beach town is better” contest any day of the week in my book! And I’m obviously not the only one…
Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, the “Nation’s Summer Capital” is located about 30 miles north of Ocean City, Maryland. The two cities have many of the same beachy charms, but Rehoboth Beach wins the “which beach town is better” contest any day of the week in my book! And I’m obviously not the only one… the Mother Nature Network recently named Rehoboth Beach their destination of the week.
The article does a pretty good job of highlighting all the things I love about Rehoboth Beach, but as someone who has literally been coming here my entire life, here are some of my tried and true favorites.
These Rehoboth Beach staples are great any time of year, but summer is approaching, so you should definitely start making your plans to visit!
And if you’re interested in doing more than visiting, give us a call at Cooper Realty Associates and let us help you find your dream home in Rehoboth – 302-644-2266!
Do you have an unfinished basement that you are considering refinishing? A finished basement can give you a lot of extra living space and also add a lot of value to your home, but finishing a basement is a lot of work! Here are five things you should consider before you make any plans…
Do you have an unfinished basement that you are considering refinishing? A finished basement can give you a lot of extra living space and also add a lot of value to your home, but finishing a basement is a lot of work! Here are five things you should consider before you make any plans…
1. Know the Safety Standards and Zoning Codes
Make sure all access points meet safety standards – do the stairs from the inside of the house meet building codes? Are there any exterior entrances or does there need to be? Is the ceiling high enough? Will any structural support be altered? Is there enough airflow? Have you gotten any permits that you need for the work you’re planning to do? And if you’re planning to refinish your basement as a rental unit, you will need to check with your local municipality to be sure that rentals are allowed in your neighborhood.
2. Make Sure It’s Dry
Lots of basements flood. If you want to finish your basement, you need to make sure the exterior of your house has good drainage. If you have an older house, this is especially important. If you’ve recently purchased your house, consider living in it for a year before making any plans to finish the basement. See what it’s like in all seasons, so that you know what kind of moisture issues you are dealing with. If your basement has moisture issues, take care of them before you do any finishing work. Whether you need to install a drain, re-landscape for better drainage, reroute your gutters, install a sump pump, or waterproof the exterior of your house, not taking care of the issue before you finish your basement is like throwing time and money down the drain.
3. Decide What It Will Be Used For
Finishing a basement just to have it finished is a bad idea. Decide beforehand how the space is going to be used. Will it be a family room? An office? Converted into bedrooms? A media room? A game room? Your plans for the room will factor into your design and ultimately the amount of time and money it takes to do the work. For example, a game room might just need some walls, flooring, and paint. But more extensive projects will require you to think about electrical wiring, plumbing, and ventilation well in advance of starting the project.
4. Decide How You’ll Weather-proof
There is no sense in refinishing an area that is too cold to use in the winter and too hot to use in the summer. There are many different methods of insulating, and you should research them to decide what type will work best for your house. In addition to insulation you want to make sure you have the proper heating and/or air conditioning installed in the space as well. This might mean rerouting or adding duct work to your home, installing small wall units, or even upgrading your home’s existing system if it is not equipped to handle heating or cooling the extra space. Again, you will want to do all of this research before you start any work so that you don’t end up with any big, unexpected costs, or worse, a lovely finished basement that can only be used for a few weeks out of the year due to climate control issues.
5. Decide on the Finishing Touches
There are so many options for finishing the ceilings, walls, and floors of your newly improved space that you will want to do some research ahead of time. A lot of these choices will depend on what you plan on using the space for (see #3), and I’m not suggesting you have every last detail down to your paint colors chosen before you start any work. It is in your best interest, however, to do some research and narrow down your decisions ahead of time. Putting this thought in before any work begins will prevent your costs from skyrocketing at the very end of the project.
Basements are versatile rooms that add useful living space to any home, but refinishing them poorly is not only a waste of money, but can also detract from the value of your home. Spending time planning, researching, and fixing any existing issues before you begin work will save you a lot of hassle and money in the long run!
Are you looking for a new home? (Perhaps one with a basement that is already finished?) We’d love to help you find your dream home. Give us a call at Cooper Realty Associates – 302-644-2266 and put us to work for you!
Lewes is a town that has something to offer just about everybody. If living in the “first city in the first state” is your dream – we can find a home for you! These three homes in Lewes are vastly different from one another and are priced to match, but each one of them has something to offer and could be your dream home! Take a look:
Lewes is a town that has something to offer just about everybody. If living in the “first city in the first state” is your dream – we can find a home for you! These three homes in Lewes are vastly different from one another and are priced to match, but each one of them has something to offer and could be your dream home! Take a look:
1. 4 beds, 4 ½ baths on Black Marlin Drive (MLS #592900)
This beautiful custom built home has plenty of room for entertaining! It offers 4 bedrooms, 4 ½ baths and plenty of extras, including a large finished basement, hardwood floors, stainless steel appliances, walk-in closets, beautifully detailed built-ins, heated tile floor in the master bath, a sauna, and access to the community pool and tennis court. This home in the Cape Henlopen School District leaves little to be desired and is priced at $849,000 For more detail and lots more pictures, check out this link.
Interested in this gorgeous home that is perfect for entertaining? Give us a call at Cooper Realty Associates – 302-644-2266!
2. 5 beds, 2 baths on Sandstone Drive (MLS #590569)
Location, location, location! This home has it! Located in the desirable Henlopen Landing Community this great home is near everywhere you want to be – beaches, schools, shopping, dining, and area attractions are all just minutes away! In addition to 5 bedrooms and 2 baths, this home also offers a great room, sun room, study/office, and gorgeous hardwood floors throughout. The spacious master suite includes a soaking tub and the open concept kitchen offers plenty of storage space. This home also has a beautiful backyard with fire pit and gazebo, and the neighborhood offers access to the community fitness center and pool! This home in the Cape Henlopen School Distrcit is listed at just $339,000 – a desirable price in a desirable community! To see more pictures and get more info, check out this link.
Interested in this spacious home in the perfect location? Give us a call at Cooper Realty Associates – 302-644-2266!
3. 3 beds, 2 baths on Lakeside Drive (MLS #591338)
This charming home offers 1791 square feet of living space on just under 1/5 of an acre. It is the lowest priced single family home in the desirable gated community of Plantations East. It offers 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, eat-in kitchen, and central a/c. Community amenities include a community center, pool access, and water/lake privileges. This home is a short sale, and can be yours for just $249,000. For more pictures and information check out this link.
Interested in this bargain of a home in a desirable community? Give us a call at Cooper Realty Associates – 302-644-2266!
If Lewes is your dream location, one of these three homes could be your dream home. Whether you want to take a closer look, see other properties in Lewes, or look for homes in other towns, we’d love to help you. Give us a call at Cooper Realty Associates today – 302-644-2266!
Fred’s Pick of the Day is MLS # 591583. This huge 3400+ sq. ft. home has 3BR, 2.5BA, a 10’x8’ sun porch, a multilevel deck, all on 1.73 acres. The Bridgeville, DE home is in the great neighborhood of Fox Glen and is now reduced to $375,000. Call me to see this great house @ 302 258-6983. Fred
Today’s food for thought is from Miguel Cervantes: “Forewarned, forearmed; to be prepared is half the victory.” “Be prepared, just what I learned in the Boy Scouts.” Fred
Looking for something to do the weekend of March 23rd? Here are a few great options!
Looking for something to do this weekend? Here are a few great options!
Pork Roast & Shrimp Pig-Out
Enjoy great food and live music at the annual Pork Roast & Shrimp Pig-Out at the Elks Lodge in Lewes (Beaver Dam Road). Tickets are $20. In addition to pork and shrimp, baked beans, coleslaw and rolls will also be served. Pig-out on Friday, March 23rd from 5:30pm-9pm! For more information, click this link.
Coastal Concerts Presents: Spanish Brass
Spanish Brass played Coastal Concerts in 2008 and impressed the audience with its versatility and vibrancy. They’ve been asked back for an encore performance on Saturday, March 24th at 8pm. Enjoying a concert by this world renowned quintet is a great way to spend a Saturday night! The concert will be performed at Bethel United Methodist Church Hall in Lewes (Fourth & Market Streets). For more information, including ticket prices, check out this link.
Bayhealth Family Wellness Expo & 16th Annual Baby Fair
“Cultivating Healthy Habits” is the theme of this year’s fair on Saturday, March 24th. Head down to the Delaware State Fairgrounds in Harrington to receive free health screenings and information about fitness and preventative care. A childbirth educator will offer information and resources for expectant mothers. Information on breastfeeding, childbirth, and child development will be highlighted. For more information, check out this link.
The Delaware Home Show
Head to the Rollins Center at the Dover Downs Hotel (1131 N. DuPont Hwy) to see the latest products and ideas for your home! Doors are open from 10am-6pm on Saturday, 3/24 and 11am,-4pm on Sunday, 3/25. For more details including ticket information and a schedule of events check out this link.
And if you’d rather go house hunting this weekend, give us a call at Cooper Realty Associates and let us help you – 302-644-2266.
Fred’s Pick of the day is MLS # 593860. Affordable Ocean Front for only $429,900, this 1BR efficiency is on the second floor of this Beach Front Condo in Rehoboth Beach, DE. Call me if you want to see it @ 302 258-6983. Fred
Today’s food for thought is from Benjamin Disraeli: “How much easier it is to be critical than to be correct.” “Most people react to things without thinking them thru, being correct is a lofty goal.” Fred
Here at Cooper Realty we are going to do our own version of HGTV’s “House Hunters” called In Pursuit of the Perfect Property – our theme for this week is single family homes with at least 4 bedrooms. So, without further ado, here are your property choices for this week…
I am a huge fan of the show House Hunters on HGTV. I love seeing what homes in other areas of the country look like and how much home money will buy in different places. If you haven’t seen the show, basically a person looking for a new home is shown 3 different homes that fulfill their needs. I’m sure in reality the buyer sees more than three homes and the show just shows three, but that’s beside the point. In the end the buyer chooses one home to put an offer on and the show gives a narration of the process from offering to making settlement to settling in! It’s a great show!
Here at Cooper Realty we are going to do our own version called In Pursuit of the Perfect Property – our theme for this week is single family homes with at least 4 bedrooms. So, without further ado, here are your property choices for this week –
Property #1 – Cannon Road in Millsboro, DE (MLS #592722)
This huge home is set on over 5 acres of beautifully landscaped property. This unique home has over 6,000 square feet of living space, with the main home occupying approximately 4,000 square feet and the converted garage offering over 2,000 square feet of living space divided into two different in-law suites. This custom built home has 4 bedrooms and 3 ½ baths as well as two in-law suites that are 1 bed/1 bath each. Walk-in closets, a conference/game room, pond, beautiful salt water pool, and high-end features including Heartland appliances and hardwood floors are some of the awesome amenities offered by this property! For more details and lots of pictures, check out this link. This home offers plenty of living space in the Indian River school district and is listed at $799,900.
Interested in this spacious home with gorgeous features and dual in-law suites? Give us a call at Cooper Realty – 302-644-2266!
Property #2 – Williams Point Road in Queen Anne, MD (MLS #590343)
This great property is 20 acres with water access. The home is just over 2,100 square feet with 5 bedrooms and 2 baths. This is an ideal property for hunting and fishing and is an outdoorsman/woman’s dream come true! You can check out more details and see pictures here! The price was recently reduced on this beauty, so it’s now listed at $475,000.
Interested in this bargain of a home with plenty of bedrooms, lots of property, and water access? Give us a call at Cooper Realty – 302-644-2266!
Property #3 – Pine Needle Court in Seaford, DE (MLS #589292)
This gorgeous home is 5,400 square feet set on almost half an acre. It has 5 bedrooms and 6 baths, but that’s just the start of what this home has to offer… it also has vaulted ceilings, walk-in closets, a wet bar, study/library, dining room, media room, entertainment area, and intercom. Outdoor features include a pool and pool house, cabana, and patio. No matter what you’re looking for, this home has something to offer! You can check out more info and see lots of pictures here! This beautiful home in the Seaford school district is listed for $769,500.
Interested in this beautiful home with lots of amenities? Give us a call at Cooper Realty – 302-644-2266!
I know which home I’m drooling over, but which one is your dream home? The huge, custom home with gorgeous features and dual in-law suites? The bargain waterfront home with tons of property? Or the beautiful, spacious home with tons of amenities? No matter which one you choose, give us a call at Cooper Realty and let us help you make your dream a reality! And if you want to keep looking, we can help you with that too! Call us today — 302-644-2266.
The truth is, no matter who you are, hiring a maid service can give you a little extra time to spend on more enjoyable things! If you’ve been thinking of hiring a maid service, here are a few things to keep in mind…
If you’re like most of the people I know, you probably love your home but hate cleaning it! More and more people are hiring maid services to help them out – some people hire help with the day-to-day cleaning and others hire help to come in once a month, or even less frequently. The truth is, no matter who you are, hiring a maid service can give you a little extra time to spend on more enjoyable things! If you’ve been thinking of hiring a maid service, here are a few things to keep in mind…
Insurance & Bonding
Make sure the company you hire is insured. Your homeowners insurance may or may not cover an accident that occurs while I maid is working for you – for example if she slips and falls while mopping the floor, so the company you hire should have coverage that protects both the company and employees, but also your home. Bonding is different than insurance – be sure that the company protects you and not just themselves in case of a problem like theft.
Hiring & References
Make sure the employees references and criminal background have been checked. Find out if the maids are employees or subcontractors – generally speaking, you want a company that has employees. If the workers are subcontractors be sure they are trained and insured. Find out how long the company has been in business and ask for a list of references. Call references and ask how long they’ve used the company, if they’ve ever had complaints and how they’ve been handled, and how highly they would recommend the service.
Customer Satisfaction
When calling references, find out how satisfied they are as customers. Also ask if the company has any measures of customer satisfaction (but be sure to find out how they collected the data – it doesn’t mean much if the only customers they report are the ones that have given glowing testimonials!). If the company cares about customer satisfaction and goes out of their way to measure it, they are probably the kind of company that will care about you. While you’re at it, you should also find out how the company measures quality of service and how they assure that quality is maintained. You want to make sure that whoever is working for you is working up to the standards you expect. In the case of complaints, you will want to know if there is some kind of guarantee. Make sure any guarantees are in writing and whether or not there are limitations. Find out before you hire a maid or a service how complaints are handled and how long issues usually take to be resolved.
Products & Equipment
Find out who is responsible for providing products & equipment. Some services provide their own supplies, while others expect you to provide everything. If products are provided by the company keep in mind that many cleaning products contain harsh chemicals and/or poisons. Be sure that everything the company uses is safe for pets and kids. Even if you don’t have pets or children running around your house, as a rule you should avoid unsafe products for yourself too! If the company uses environmentally friendly products, be sure they will still be effective for cleaning and disinfecting purposes. Find out exactly what equipment the company expects you to provide (mop? vacuum? broom? rags? buckets? – and the list continues) and make sure you have it. If the service provides their own equipment find out their policy for keeping things clean and up to date. For example, if they use a vacuum with a dirty filter it isn’t going to do much good. Similarly, you don’t want them using dirty rags that have only been rinsed clean to wipe down your kitchen counters. If the company provides products and equipment, but you would rather provide your own, make sure that there is a policy in place for you to do so.
Legality
When you hire a cleaning service you want to be sure that everything is above board. Know both the federal and state tax laws for your situation and follow them. You should also be sure that you are hiring legally documented workers. Finally, know the ins and outs of any contract that you sign. Understand your rights as a consumer and the recourse that you have if you are unhappy with the service that is provided.
And if you are not one of the people who love your home, give us a call at Cooper Realty and let us help you find a new home – 302-644-2266!
Fred’s Pick of the Day is MLS # 593085. This Greenwood Delaware home has 2BR, 2BA, in 1811 sq. ft., with a full length deck off the rear of the house, all on 3.36 acres, and only $159,900. Call me @ 302 258-6983 for a showing. Fred
Today’s food for thought from Tacitus: “Things forbidden have a secret charm.” “Just ask Eve.” Fred