Author: Connie - Gadget Girl

3 Tips for Selling Your Home in 2013

If you are looking to sell your home in 2013, here are three tips to help you, adapted from a list published by Zillow Real Estate Blog:

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If you are looking to sell your home in 2013, here are three tips to help you, adapted from a list published by Zillow Real Estate Blog:

1.  Know what your home is worth.  In the neighborhood, that is.  If you are going to sell you definitely want to know the comps for your home.  Your real estate agent can help you with this.  You can always start going to open houses to see what’s selling in your neighborhood, and utilize online listings to help you learn more.  Just remember that “comps” are comparable sales, not comparable listings.  It doesn’t matter what people are asking for their homes, only what the homes actually sell for.

2.  Get inspected.  Of course, inspection falls to the buyer, but if you want to give yourself a leg up consider paying for an inspection yourself.  If you do you will know what needs to be repaired before you begin negotiating.  If you can plan for repairs in advance you will be able to fix them for less money than they would cost you in buyer credit down the road, or you can price your home with the repairs factored in.  Either way you will save money for the long run.

3.  Stage your home.  By hiring a designer or stager, you will be able to show your home in the best possible light.  Again, even though this is an up-front cost, it will save you money in the long run!

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

Weekend Update: January 11th-13th

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If you’re looking for something fun to do this weekend… keep looking!  For the first time in almost a year all of my sources for great, local events have empty calendars simultaneously.  Can you believe it?  I guess everyone is taking a bit of a post-holiday break!  I’ve been spotlighting great, local restaurants for almost a year now, so search the blog for food and restaurants and try some place new, or check out this post which highlights all the great things to do at Cape Henlopen State Park in the winter.  Check it out this weekend!

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

The Effects of the Fiscal Cliff Bill on Real Estate Taxes

Thanks to the law passed earlier this year by Congress to avoid falling off the “fiscal cliff,” there are many advantages when it comes to real estate tax breaks.

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Thanks to the law passed earlier this year by Congress to avoid falling off the “fiscal cliff,” there are many advantages when it comes to real estate tax breaks.  First of all, thanks to this bill, the mortgage interest deduction remains the same for now.  In addition, taxpayers with an AGI (adjusted gross income) of less than $100,000 per year can itemize and deduct all of their PMI, or mortgage insurance, payments.  This deduction was last offered in 2011, but the bill put it back in play for all of 2012 and through the end of 2013.  Next, the Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act was extended through the end of 2013, meaning that home owners who face a short sale or who receive forgiveness on their mortgage principal may exclude up to two million dollars of debt forgiveness from their taxable income.  This is good news for those who are under water in their mortgages because it makes the options of short sales and loan modifications more attractive than foreclosure or bankruptcy.  Finally, this bill brings back the $500 credit for making various energy-saving improvements to a principal residence through the end of 2013.

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

 

Consider the Costs of Remodeling

If you are thinking of building a new home or remodeling an existing home, there’s a good chance that you haven’t thought through all of the fees involved in the project.

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If you are thinking of building a new home or remodeling an existing home, there’s a good chance that you haven’t thought through all of the fees involved in the project.  Construction costs, whether for new construction or remodeling include any on-site work such as tree removal, landscaping, site clearing, septic systems, drainage systems, utility hookups, fencing, etc.  construction costs such as demolition, framing, roofing, wiring, drywall, installation, heating/cooling, plumbing, electricity, painting, flooring, etc. and also includes some less often thought of costs such as a/v system installation, home automation, security systems, swimming pools, etc.  But in addition to these costs, there are also non-construction based fees such as design fees (architect, landscape architect, interior designer, etc.), engineering fees (structural engineer, HVAC, land survey, etc.) relocation costs (do you have to rent a home temporarily or rent a storage unit?), and the various fees associated with real estate such as legal fees, accounting fees, and financing fees.  Of course if you are going to build or remodel, don’t forget to factor in the post-construction costs that are often forgotten about until time and budget are all but gone!  This would include things like furniture, wall treatments, and window treatments.

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

Spotlight on Cactus Café in Selbyville

Cactus Café has been in business in Selbyville for over 20 years and serves amazing Tex-Mex cuisine plus steaks and seafood and kickin’ margaritas.

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Cactus Café has two locations in Selbyville.  The original Cactus Café (37 Dupont Blvd) and Luna’s Cactus Café (36666 Blue Water Run).  Cactus Café has been in business in Selbyville for over 20 years and serves amazing Tex-Mex cuisine plus steaks and seafood and kickin’ margaritas.  With fresh, quality food, excellent service, a welcoming and cozy atmosphere, and reasonable prices, Cactus Café has the best Tex-Mex food around!

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.

5 More Housing Trends to Watch

Yesterday, I posted three housing trends for 2013, and to follow up I have five more to keep your eye on:

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Yesterday, I posted three housing trends for 2013, and to follow up I have five more to keep your eye on:

1.  Rise in First-Time Home Buyers.  The pocket of first-time home buyers that helps to drive the market has been steadily increasing over the past twelve months, and looks like it will continue to do so in 2013.

2.  Rising Mortgage Rates.  Mortgage rates have been historically low throughout 2012, but that dream world can’t last forever, so watch for interest rates to climb back up to average 4% or more in 2013.

3.  Easier Credit Standards.  Currently, only the best FICO scores qualify borrowers for a mortgage, but that should start changing in 2013 as lenders have to compete to provide loans to qualified buyers.

4.  Rising Construction Costs.  New home construction prices will be on the rise in 2013, as contractors can be expected to increase their prices to cover costs.

5.  Sales Will Rise.  Home sales were up in 2012 for the first time in awhile, and should continue to do so in 2013.  Some reports estimate that home sales will grow as much as 10% in the coming year.

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.

Three Housing Trends for 2013

Based on a variety of surveys, here are three trends in the housing market to look for this coming year:

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Based on a variety of surveys, here are three trends in the housing market to look for this coming year:

1.  Rising home prices.  Five years after the housing market bottomed out, home prices started rising toward the end of 2012 in many markets, and seem on track to continue in that direction, with the National Association of Realtors (NAR) forecasting that home prices will rise 5-6% in the coming year.

2.  More short sales.  As of November 1st, the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) issued new rules on short sales, making short sales more accessible to both buyers and sellers.  That’s not to say that short sales will become significantly easier, but they should be more plentiful in 2013.

3.  Fewer foreclosures.  As short sales rise this year, you can expect to see foreclosures, especially at bargain prices to fall.  The FHFA and banks are selling off distressed home loans through other methods so you can expect to find less foreclosures flooding the market.

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.

Weekend Update: January 4th-6th

As we ease into 2013 with a bit of a slow weekend, consider these events if you’re looking for something to do:

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As we ease into 2013 with a bit of a slow weekend, consider these events if you’re looking for something to do:

Saturday, 1/5: Wicomico Recreation Indoor Community Yard Sale
This huge, annual yard sale takes place at the Wicomico Youth & Civic Center from 7am-12pm on Saturday.  Cost is $2 and children under 12 are admitted free when accompanied by an adult.  All proceeds from the sale benefit Wicomico Recreation.  If you’re interested in selling, call 410-548-4911 to see if there are any tables or booths available.

Sunday, 1/6:  Delmarva Bridal Showcase
From diamonds and dresses to flowers and food, the Delmarva Bridal Showcase covers all of the bride’s needs from start to finish.  If you’re planning a wedding, or know someone who is you don’t want to miss this huge event.  In addition to the chance to talk with industry professionals, the day also includes live entertainment, fashion shows, prizes (including the chance to win a free honeymoon), catering and cake samples, and plenty of tips and tricks from the professionals.  The event runs from 12pm-4pm on Sunday.  Tickets are $8 in advance or $10 at the door.  For more information or to purchase tickets, check out delmarvabride.com.

Tuesday, 1/8: Free Cooking Demonstration
This isn’t a weekend event, but it’s still pretty cool.  Catch 54 Fish House (Rt 54 in Fenwick Island) is offering a free cooking demonstration that focuses on low cal and healthy food choices for the whole family.  Cocktail hour begins at 4:45 with small plates available for purchase.  The free cooking demo follows from 6pm-7pm.  Reservations are required, and tend to fill quickly, so call 302-436-8600 to reserve a spot.

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.

Goodbye 2012!

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Still not sure what your plans are for tonight?  Check out my past post of places to party this New Year’s Eve for some ideas.  Several other area restaurants are open tonight to ring in the New Year too!  And if you’d rather look ahead to 2013, check out the Cape Gazette’s article on what’s ahead in our area in the next year.

Spotlight On Perucci’s in Millville

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Perucci’s Italian Restaurant in Millville is a cozy restaurant with great food.  The classic Italian cuisine is delicious and much of it is made from scratch.  Located just under 3 miles from Bethany Beach on Rt 26 in Millville, Perucci’s is open 7 days a week from 5pm-9pm during the off season, but will be closed on New Year’s Day.  Reservations are recommended and can be made by calling 302-829-8727.  Perucci’s also has a special menu on New Year’s Eve menu, but again reservations are recommended.

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.

Five Places To Party on New Year’s Eve

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Looking for a local place to party on New Year’s Eve?  Check out these five options:

1.  In Rehoboth Beach – check out the Atlantic Sands Hotel.  Tickets are $125 and include live entertainment, a DJ, deluxe dinner buffet, cocktail reception, five hours of open bar and a champagne toatst – 302-227-2511.

2.  In Bethany Beach – Mango’s on the boardwalk at Garfield Parkway has two seatings.  The first from 5pm-8pm is $35 per person and $12 for children.  The second, from 8pm-1ais $89 per person and includes a limited menu, drinks & live entertainment from the Island Boyz.  Reservations required – 302-537-6621.

3.  In Millsboro – Riverside Grill’s New Year’s Party begins at 8pm and includes hourly door prizes, drink specials, a champagne toast and entertainment by DJ Reesie.  Reservations required – 302-945-3711.

4.  In Georgetown – New Year’s Eve at the Brick Hotel begins with open seating at 5pm.  The 4 Course Pri Fixe dinner is $55 per person and will be served from 5pm-10pm.  Seating is open, but reservations are strongly suggested.  In addition Fonsie Scott will perform his keyboard magic from 6pm-10pm and Cathy Gorman will ring in the New Year singing from 10pm-1am.  302-855-5800.

5.  In Lewes – If you’re looking for something a little different, check out the Annual New Year Anchor Drop on the Lightship Overfalls.  This annual blast takes place from 11:30pm-12:30am, is free to all and includes fire pits, music, & hot chocolate.

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.

Three Places to Recycle Your Christmas Tree

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Delawareans have been encouraged to recycle their Christmas trees this year by delivering them to one of several designated drop off sites throughout the state.  Most of these facilities will accept the trees for free, although it wouldn’t hurt to call first to double check.  The donated tress will be turned into mulch and used for composting.  Recycling your tree is far more environmentally friendly than throwing it away, just be sure to remove all decorations including hooks, wire, tinsel, lights, ornaments, etc. before dropping them off.  Here are three Sussex County locations recycling trees this year:
1.  Grizzly’s Landscape Supply Service in Lewes
2.  Selbyville Pet & Garden Center in Selbyville
3.  Sussex Tree Inc. Garden Center in various locations
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.

Weekend Update: December 28th-30th

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The last weekend of 2012 is a slow one in the area.  Everyone is gearing up for New Years Parties!  However, if you’re looking for something to do, check out the Holiday Family Program at Cape Henlopen State Park.  Thursday, Friday & Saturday at 11am the park staff will show what makes a fish a fish.  There is a fee of $2 per person.  Pre-registration is required.  You can pre-register by calling 302-645-6852.  At 2pm Thursday, Friday & Saturday a naturalist will present cool fish facts during a fish feeding at the Seaside Nature Center.  The Nature Center is also open for touring from 9pm-4pm and the borrow a bike program is available from 9am-3pm all weekend, weather permitting.

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.

Santa’s Real Estate Whirlwind

As Santa prepares for his whirlwind tour of every house and chimney in the world, NORAD (North American Aerospace Defense Command) prepares to track him, just as they have every Christmas Eve for the pas 57 years!

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As Santa prepares for his whirlwind tour of every house and chimney in the world, NORAD (North American Aerospace Defense Command) prepares to track him, just as they have every Christmas Eve for the pas 57 years!

It all began in 1955 when a Sears Roebuck & Company catalog promised a Santa hotline but misprinted the number and gave the number for what was then the Continental Air Defense Command (now NORAD) instead.  When Col. Harry Shoup fielded the first call that Christmas Eve he was probably expecting the Secretary of Defense, some kind of red alert, or perhaps even the President, but instead he heard a little girl on the other end of the line asking about Santa.  He immediately sprang into gear, instructing staff to check the radar of signs of Santa, and thus a tradition was born.
The official NORAD website explains how they use radar, satellites, Santa Cams, and fighter jets to track Santa in a very high-tech system that begins the moment the NORAD radar indicates that Santa has lifted off.

You can track Santa personally and check the running count of gifts delivered at NORAD’s official website by clicking this link.  Your kids (or you!) can also follow Santa by emailing noradtrackssanta@outlook.com or by phone at 1-877-HI-NORAD.  This year you can also download the NORAD Tracks Santa mobile app.

Happy Santa tracking & Merry Christmas Eve!

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.

Spotlight on 1776 Steakhouse in Midway Center

 

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1776 Steakhouse in Midway Center at Lewes is a great place for a romantic dinner, celebrating a special occasion, or just enjoying a great steak!  1776 specializes in serving premium, dry-aged beef and an extensive bar menu in a warm and inviting atmosphere.  You can expect quality service and delicious food at 1776.  They are also able to accommodate private events both large and small.  They serve lunch from 11am-3pm and dinner from 5pm-10am Monday through Saturday with Jazz nights Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 7pm-10pm and dinner from 4pm-9pm on Sunday.  1776 is also open on Christmas Eve & New Year’s Eve, but reservations are recommended.

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.

5 Easy Dishes For Your Holiday Party

If you’re going to or hosting a holiday party this weekend, chances are you’re looking a dish you can bring that will be impressive, yet quick and easy to put together. Here are five great options:

If you’re going to or hosting a holiday party this weekend, chances are you’re looking a dish you can bring that will be impressive, yet quick and easy to put together.  Here are five great options:

1.  Christmas Tree Veggie Tray
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2.  Festive Cheese Tray (with olives & pickles!)
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3.  Snowman Fruit Salad (in hollowed out melons)
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4.  Strawberry Santa Hats (place strawberry on top of a thin mint or vanilla wafer and top with whipped cream)
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5.  Reindeer Cookies (bake your favorite recipe and decorate with a single red m&m, broken pretzel pieces & drops of decorative icing)

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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.

3 Restaurants For Dinner on Christmas Eve

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With most restaurants closed for the holidays, check out one of these three options in Rehoboth if you’re looking for a great place on Christmas Eve:

1.  Blue Moon (35 Baltimore Ave)  Serving dinner from 5:30pm-9pm.  Reservations are recommended.

3.  Summer House (228 Rehoboth Ave)  Open from 11:30am-9pm, serving dinner starting at 4pm.

3.  Confucius Chinese Cuisine (57 Wilmington Ave) Serving dinner from 5pm-10pm.  Voted best Chinese food in Rehoboth every year since 2004!

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.

Weekend Update: 12/21-12/23

vintage-santa-claus-chimney-sack-toys-christmas-cardsOne last chance to visit Santa this weekend!

Friday, 12/21 & Saturday, 12/22 – Visit Santa in Lewes
Visit Santa in Lewes this weekend on Friday from 5pm-7pm or Saturday from 1pm-4pm at the Santa House in front of Citizens Bank at the corner of Second and Bank Streets in Lewes.

Saturday, 12/22 & Sunday, 12/23 – Visit Santa in Rehoboth
Visit Santa at Santa’s House in Rehoboth on the boardwalk at Rehoboth Ave.  Santa will be there Saturday from 3pm-5pm and Sunday from 1pm-3pm and again from 3pm-5pm for pet time!

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.