Author: Connie - Gadget Girl

Weekend Update — June 9th-10th

Looking for something to do this weekend? Here are a few ideas to get your planning started:

Saturday, June 9th: Lewes Strawberry Festival
3pm-5pm – Enjoy delicious strawberries and champagne amidst live music and beautiful surroundings at the Lewes Historical Complex (110 Shipcarpenter Street). Tickets are $7 for Historical Society members and $10 for everyone else. For more information or to pre-register (required) call 302-645-7670 (ext. 10).

Looking for something to do this weekend?  Here are a few ideas to get your planning started:

Saturday, June 9th:  Lewes Strawberry Festival
3pm-5pm – Enjoy delicious strawberries and champagne amidst live music and beautiful surroundings at the Lewes Historical Complex (110 Shipcarpenter Street).  Tickets are $7 for Historical Society members and $10 for everyone else.  For more information or to pre-register (required) call 302-645-7670 (ext. 10).

Saturday, June 9th:  Best of the Beach Art Auction
6pm-11pm – Dinner, dancing, art & music!  This year’s theme is “Farm To Table” and Big Fish Grill is catering, using fresh, local ingredients.  The auction benefits Beebe Medical Center.  Tickets start at $175 and pre-registration is required.  For more information or to request a ticket, check out the Beebe Medical Foundation website.

Sunday, June 10th: Yellow Ribbon Military Family Appreciation Day
11am-5pm – The City of Lewes honors Sussex County families with members serving in the military with a day that is fun for the whole family!  This event is free, but pre-registration is required.  This event is limited to military families.  Participating families can check in beginning at 11am at American Legion Post 17.  Non-military families are welcome to come to Canalfront Park at 1:30pm to show their support during the Welcome Ceremony which will include a musical tribute and Air Force Flyover.  You can register here.

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!

Free Concerts in Milton, DE

Beginning tomorrow, June 6th, the town of Milton will host a free summer concert at Milton Memorial Park every Wednesday night through the end of August. Running from approximately 7pm-10pm, these weekly concerts are free and fun for the whole family! If weather is uncooperative the show will go on at the Milton Fire Hall. For more information or a schedule of performers, call the Milton Chamber of Commerce at 302-684-1101. Summer is here, so spread a blanket, bring some lawn chairs, consider bringing a picnic dinner, and enjoy the live entertainment!

Beginning tomorrow, June 6th, the town of Milton will host a free summer concert at Milton Memorial Park every Wednesday night through the end of August.  Running from approximately 7pm-10pm, these weekly concerts are free and fun for the whole family!  If weather is uncooperative the show will go on at the Milton Fire Hall.  For more information or a schedule of performers, call the Milton Chamber of Commerce at 302-684-1101.  Summer is here, so spread a blanket, bring some lawn chairs, consider bringing a picnic dinner, and enjoy the live entertainment!

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!

Best Tips for Painting

Everyone knows that a fresh coat of paint goes a long way to improving just about any surface, but a fresh coat of paint and a good coat of paint are two entirely different things. Here are some great painting tips to help you make the most of a coat of paint!

Everyone knows that a fresh coat of paint goes a long way to improving just about any surface, but a fresh coat of paint and a good coat of paint are two entirely different things.  Here are some great painting tips to help you make the most of a coat of paint!

Buy Good Quality:  You might try to save a couple bucks by buying the cheapest gallon of paint you can, but if you put out the cash for high quality paint and it will go on smoother, cover more, splatter less, and will be less likely to fade.  Trust me, it’s worth the extra money!

Choose Your Gloss Wisely:  Remember that the flatter the finish, the harder the paint is to clean.  Flat paint is a good choice for ceilings, but be sure to use an eggshell for walls and semigloss in rooms that are cleaned more often.

Test It:  The pros know that testing a paint out on a wide surface of wall is key to choosing the ride shade.  The best way to do this is to buy sample sizes (or quarts if they aren’t available) of a few different colors and paint several chunks of wall.  Make sure you leave the paint there for a few days so you can see it in all different lighting and then make your final choice.

Work Your Way Down:  Begin painting at the ceiling and work down the wall for the smoothest results.

Mix It Together:  If you’re using more than one gallon of the same color paint, mix all the gallons together in a bucket to guarantee a uniform color throughout the whole room.

Wrap Up Brushes:  If you’re going to take a break wrap any brushes and rollers in plastic bags.  Be sure there is no air in the bag and close it with a rubber band or twist tie.  If you’re planning on taking a long break, like overnight, seal all the tools up and store them in the refrigerator to keep them fresh.

With tips like these, you can turn any paint project into a success story!

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!

Spotlight on Restaurant Week

Restaurant Week is back in Rehoboth! This 7th annual event begins tomorrow and runs through Saturday, June 9th. All week long you can experience some of Rehoboth’s best and most popular restaurants for a fraction of the price. Each participating restaurant offers a 3 course prix-fixe dinner menu for either $20 or $30. Some restaurants are even offering $10 or $15 prix-fixe lunches. Click here for more details and a list of participating restaurants. Find your favorites or enjoy something new… either way you can’t beat eating in Rehoboth this week! Bon appetite!

Restaurant Week is back in Rehoboth!  This 7th annual event begins tomorrow and runs through Saturday, June 9th.  All week long you can experience some of Rehoboth’s best and most popular restaurants for a fraction of the price.  Each participating restaurant offers a 3 course prix-fixe dinner menu for either $20 or $30.  Some restaurants are even offering $10 or $15 prix-fixe lunches.  Click here for more details and a list of participating restaurants.  Find your favorites or enjoy something new… either way you can’t beat eating in Rehoboth this week!  Bon appetite!

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 Ways To Create A Backyard Oasis

To develop a backyard oasis, you really need to view your yard as an extension of your living space. With summer approaching, there’s never been a better time!

Develop atmosphere. Many decks are underutilized wooden structures and often a patio is just a slab of concrete, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Create an oasis feel to these spaces by adding texture and color. This can be done through plants, furniture, paint, architectural elements, and more. Remember, your backyard should be an extension of your house, so when you are considering your outdoor space, think of it as another room to decorate.

To develop a backyard oasis, you really need to view your yard as an extension of your living space.  With summer approaching, there’s never been a better time!

Develop atmosphere.  Many decks are underutilized wooden structures and often a patio is just a slab of concrete, but it doesn’t have to be that way.  Create an oasis feel to these spaces by adding texture and color.  This can be done through plants, furniture, paint, architectural elements, and more.  Remember, your backyard should be an extension of your house, so when you are considering your outdoor space, think of it as another room to decorate.

Make it private.  Your outdoor space will seem more glamorous if it seems enclosed.  Adding lattice, a pergola or landscaping to create a privacy screen will help create the feeling of an oasis.  Of course, a fence always works too, but it might not be as elegant!

Create shade.  To create a welcoming space that you want to stay in all day, there needs to be a spot where you can find relief from the sun.  Add some trees, an awning, or an umbrella for immediate shade.  Or you can combine privacy and shade by growing vines along a pergola.

Add lighting.  A true outdoor oasis should be utilized throughout the year, not just on the longest summer days.  In order to do this you need to add some outdoor lighting.  Porch lights, dimmable lamps, solar-powered lights are all good options.

Furnish for use.  There are so many great options for outdoor furniture these days, and much of what is available is just as beautiful and comfortable as indoor furniture.  Wood, aluminum, iron and synthetics are all options.  Think about the style you would like your outdoor space to convey and go from there.

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.

Thursday Three: 3 Ways To Create An Office In Space You Already Have

If you’re in need of a work space but don’t have a whole room to spare for an office, check out these options:

1. The Kitchen Office
Tuck a small desk into the kitchen and slide a chair or stool underneath for an instant office. Add a drawer underneath and cabinet above for storage.

If you’re in need of a work space but don’t have a whole room to spare for an office, check out these options:

1.  The Kitchen Office
Tuck a small desk into the kitchen and slide a chair or stool underneath for an instant office.  Add a drawer underneath and cabinet above for storage.

2.  The Family Room Office
Choose a larger room in your home and create a cozy office by cornering off a space.  Define the space with a beautiful desk.  A large bookcase on one wall and shelving on another will create plenty of storage.  Add some lighting and you’re good to go.  Just make sure the space you choose has plenty of outlets for any electronics you need.

3.  The Simple Solution
Choose a gorgeous, classic secretary desk and tuck it away in corner and you will have an instant work space.  Most secretary desks offer pull-out or pull-down desks that offer plenty of workspace.  With so many styles of furniture on the market, you are sure to find a secretary that will fit your needs.  Choose a style with shelves or drawers for plenty of storage.

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 – June 1st-3rd

Looking for something fun to do this weekend? Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Saturday, June 2nd – Lower Sussex Bassmasters Youth Fishing Event
This annual event takes place at Milton memorial Park on the Upper Broadkill River and is sponsored by the Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge. Registration begins at 8am and the tournament runs from 9am-1pm. This tournament is for all kids ages 15 and younger and is totally free! If you bring a fishing pole the bait, hooks, and bobbers will be provided. Hot dogs, soda & train rides are also free. All participants must have a parent or guardian present. Rain date is Sunday, June 3rd.

Looking for something fun to do this weekend?  Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Saturday, June 2nd – Lower Sussex Bassmasters Youth Fishing Event
This annual event takes place at Milton memorial Park on the Upper Broadkill River and is sponsored by the Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge.  Registration begins at 8am and the tournament runs from 9am-1pm.  This tournament is for all kids ages 15 and younger and is totally free!  If you bring a fishing pole the bait, hooks, and bobbers will be provided.  Hot dogs, soda & train rides are also free.  All participants must have a parent or guardian present.  Rain date is Sunday, June 3rd.

Saturday, June 2nd – First Lighthouse Tour of the Season
Sponsored by the Delaware River & Bay Lighthouse Foundation, Lighthouse Tours will take place this year on June 2nd, 16th, and 30th, July 14th & 28th, August 11th & 25th, and September 8th.  All tours depart from the pier behind the Ferry Terminal in Lewes at 11am.  Reservations are required and participants must arrive at least 15 minutes early.  Cost is $35/ages 13+.  Children 12 and under are only allowed on specified days.  Check out the website for more details!

Sunday, June 3rd – Picnic in the Park
This fun event takes place from 12pm-3pm at Canalfront Park in Lewes.  Admission is $10 in advance or $15 at the door.  Kids under 12 are $5.  Food & beverage tickets are $2 each.  Many of Lewes’ best eateries are participating and there will be live entertainment and children’s activities as well.  To purchase tickets in advance call 302-644-0108.

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.

Tips for Shopping for Your First Home

Buying a home is exciting, but when it’s your first home it is even more so. Many people just get out in the market and start shopping around, but for the best experience it is important to do your homework first. Thinking about these things might be tedious right now, but in the long run they will help you get the most out of your home.

Buying a home is exciting, but when it’s your first home it is even more so.  Many people just get out in the market and start shopping around, but for the best experience it is important to do your homework first.  Thinking about these things might be tedious right now, but in the long run they will help you get the most out of your home.

Know Your Limit
Your first step should be to figure out how much of a monthly payment you can afford.  Remember, the cost of home ownership is more than just a mortgage payment.  You also need to factor in property taxes, upkeep & maintenance, utilities, insurance, and any homeowners association dues you may encounter.  Although the loan amount you qualify for gives you a solid upper limit on your spending abilities, you need to remember that realistically you may not be able to afford that much house.  Make sure you know what type of monthly payment you can afford and find a real estate agent that can help you stay within that range.

Plan to Stay
The longer you stay in your home, the better.  If you think you may be moving in a year or two, perhaps you want to rethink buying right now.  Another common mistake first-time homebuyers make is to buy a house that works for them right now rather than thinking about where they want to be in two or three years.  For example, a two bedroom house might be perfect for right now, but if you’re thinking of starting a family then in 5 years it might be way too small for you.  Plan ahead!

Shop Around
This goes for your agent and your mortgage broker.  Find people who will be on your side and help make the buying process as painless as possible.  When it comes to your mortgage it literally pays to shop around for the best rate and terms.  A mortgage lender should be able to tell you exactly how much you’ll need for closing costs, which will help you determine how much of a down payment you can afford.  Your down payment will determine whether or not you will need mortgage insurance, so it’s all important!

Plan to Compromise
Make a list.  Write down everything you want out of your dream home and then figure out where you are potentially willing to compromise and where you aren’t.  Make a list of your absolute “must haves” and get out there and start looking at homes.  Then, be willing to adjust your list as necessary!

Finding a real estate agent you like and can trust is one of the most important aspects of any home search.  At Cooper Realty we strive to make the expensive and often stressful event of buying a house as easy and painless as possible.  Give us a call today and put us to work for you – 302-644-2266!

Memorial Day – Thank You

Thank you to all the men and women who have served or are currently serving in our country’s armed forces. It is because of your service that we are able to enjoy the freedoms we have as Americans. We appreciate your service and your sacrifice.

Thank you to all the men and women who have served or are currently serving in our country’s armed forces.  It is because of your service that we are able to enjoy the freedoms we have as Americans.  We appreciate your service and your sacrifice.

If you’re looking for a way to honor those who have served, there are two local Memorial Day Ceremonies taking place on Wednesday (5/30).  One will be conducted by VFW Post 7447 at the Rehoboth Beach Bandstand at 11am.  Another will be hosted by the American Legion Post in Lewes at their Outdoor Pavilion also at 11am.  For Rehoboth information call 302-227-3469.  For Lewes information call 302-645-1751.

If you’re looking for a way to honor those who have served, there are two local Memorial Day Ceremonies taking place on Wednesday (5/30).  One will be conducted by VFW Post 7447 at the Rehoboth Beach Bandstand at 11am.  Another will be hosted by the American Legion Post in Lewes at their Outdoor Pavilion also at 11am.  For Rehoboth information call 302-227-3469.  For Lewes information call 302-645-1751.

To all our veterans, servicemen and women, and their families, from all of us at Cooper Realty, thank you.

Spotlight on the Summer Concert Series At Stango Park

The Lewes Summer Concert Series kicks off this Tuesday (May 29th) at 7pm. This series takes place in beautiful Stango Park on Kings Highway next to the Lewes Public Library and features free outdoor concerts every Tuesday evening as well as additional times throughout the summer. You can download the entire 2012 schedule at this link. This year the series kicks off on Tuesday, May 29th, with the Cape Henlopen High School Band performing swing favorites. The concert begins at 7pm. Bring a blanket and/or lawn chair. You won’t want to miss it! Other concerts this season include…

The Lewes Summer Concert Series kicks off this Tuesday (May 29th) at 7pm.  This series takes place in beautiful Stango Park on Kings Highway next to the Lewes Public Library and features free outdoor concerts every Tuesday evening as well as additional times throughout the summer.  You can download the entire 2012 schedule at this link.  This year the series kicks off on Tuesday, May 29th, with the Cape Henlopen High School Band performing swing favorites.  The concert begins at 7pm.  Bring a blanket and/or lawn chair.  You won’t want to miss it!  Other concerts this season include:

6/5, 7pm – Joe Baione Quartet (Jazz)
6/12, 7pm – Smooth Sound Dance Band
6/14, 7pm – USAF Heritage Brass
6/19, 7pm – Copper Sky (Country-Rock)
6/26, 7pm – Tydewater (Country)
6/27, 7pm – VI NG Steel Drums
6/28, 7pm – 287th NG Band (Concert)
7/3, 7pm – Navy Country Current (Country-Rock)
7/10, 7pm – The Funsters (Swing)
7/12, 7pm – Annapolis Bluegrass Coalition
7/17, 7pm – Homegrown String Band (Folk/Americana)
7/19, 7pm – The Rogues (Celtic)
7/22, 3pm – Diamond State Band (Concert)
7/24, 7pm – Chesapeake Brass Band (British)
7/31, 7pm – Zydeco A-Go-Go (Cajun/Creole)
8/7, 7pm – Oh, Boy! Rockabilly
8/14, 7pm – Sea Chanters (Military Chorale)
8/21, 7pm – Overtime Band (Classic Rock)
8/28, 7pm – USMC Quantico Band (Concert)

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!

5 Ways To Maximize A Small Bathroom

If your home has a small bathroom, but you are constantly dreaming of renovating and making something a bit more spacious, then this is the post for you! Here are a few easy tricks to make a small bathroom seem larger!

If your home has a small bathroom, but you are constantly dreaming of renovating and making something a bit more spacious, then this is the post for you!  Here are a few easy tricks to make a small bathroom seem larger!

Replace the cabinets under your sink with a vanity.  Although it won’t give you as much hidden storage, utilizing baskets or open shelving under the vanity sink will provide storage while making the room feel more open.  A pedestal sink is also a great option for opening up floor space and giving the illusion of square footage!

Create a focal point.  Change out the existing lighting for a beautiful chandelier.  Switch some of the tiles out for colorful tiles or mosaics.  You could even pull several tiles from the same area to create a mosaic mural or redo a whole wall in beautiful glass tiles.  Replace your existing “boring” sinks with an eye catching bowl and faucet.  There are many ways to create a focal point in the bathroom, and no matter which one you choose, drawing attention to a gorgeous feature will definitely draw attention away from the fact that you are in a cramped space.  Just be cautious not to overdo it… you just want one focal point.  Too many will just make the space feel busy and even more cramped, and that is not the feeling you’re going for!

Creative storage.  Adding a tall, skinny cabinet behind the toilet or a pedestal sink can add storage to your space without adding bulk.  Alternatively, cutting some recessed shelving in between wall studs can make the most of unused space and won’t take up even an inch of floor space!

Create an illusion.  By trading your shower curtain for clear glass doors, you will create an illusion of space.  Hanging a larger mirror is also a great way to give the illusion of space, just be sure to hang it so that it reflects one of your bath’s assets, or if you want to be really daring, hang two mirrors across from each other!  Alternatively, using light colors throughout the whole room and allowing as much natural light into the space as possible will also give the illusion of space.

Replace your door.  Trading out a standard door for a sliding pocket door opens enough floor space to make it worth the switch!

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!

Thursday Three: 3 Creative Bathroom Storage Solutions

A true space saver: Hang a decorative hook next to the sink, fill a beautiful bucket with your toiletries and then hang the bucket from the hook. Voila! Instant storage, and since you can get creative with the finishes of both the hook and the bucket there are a million different options for how this can look!

A true space saver:  Hang a decorative hook next to the sink, fill a beautiful bucket with your toiletries and then hang the bucket from the hook.  Voila!  Instant storage, and since you can get creative with the finishes of both the hook and the bucket there are a million different options for how this can look!

Pretend you’re in a hotel:  Install a towel rack above the tub, over the toilet, or next to the sink – wherever you need to keep towels handy.  Be sure the rack includes both shelves and hooks for maximum storage.

Hang shelves:  Most people severely underutilize the wall space in their bathrooms.  Make the most of yours by hanging shelves to open up many more storage options!  Narrow shelves along a wall or the perimeter will add architectural interest as well as offer storage.  Hanging shelves on a narrow or oddly shaped wall can offer an instant “closet” without any of the remodeling effort or cost!  A small shelf directly above the sink will add the perfect place to stow away often used toiletries.  There are many other ways to utilize shelving in your bathroom as well, so be creative!

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 – May 25th-27th

This weekend is Memorial Day Weekend, and if you don’t have any plans here are a few great ideas to keep you busy…

This weekend is Memorial Day Weekend, and if you don’t have any plans here are a few great ideas to keep you busy.  Don’t forget to thank the men & women you know who have served or are currently serving in our country’s armed forces.

Saturday, May 26th:  Horseshoe Crab & Shorebird Festival
This popular event is hosted by the Milton Chamber of Commerce and takes place at Milton Memorial Park & Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge.  Join the 1500+ other people who enjoy this annual festival and enjoy an art show, crafts, boat rides, canoe trips, games, food, music, trail walks, train rides, a scavenger hunt, and more!  A shuttle bus is available to take guests from the park to the refuge and back.  10am-4pm

Saturday, May 26th:  Historic Lewes Farmers Market
The Historic Lewes Farmers Market opens this weekend for another season!  Located at the Lewes Historical Society Complex (110 Shipcarpenter Street), the HLFM offers the freshest local foods available in an educational, community-oriented, family-friendly setting!  Support local farmers every Saturday starting this weekend and running through the end of September.  8am-12pm every Saturday from May 26-September 29, 2012.

Saturday, May 26th-Sunday, May 27th:  Seaford’s Heritage Weekend
This 5th Annual event is held at the Governor Ross Plantation all weekend.  It features a living history encampment, demonstrators, crafts & exhibits.  Living history artisans will demonstrate period crafts and re-enactors will participate in demonstrations.  In addition, there will be live music and entertainment.  Art and antique cars will also be displayed.  For more information check out this YouTube video or call 302-629-9690.  Opening ceremonies take place at 10am on Saturday.

Sunday, May 27th:  Lantern Tours of Fort Miles
Historic Fort Miles, located in Cape Henlopen State Park was an important defense position during World War 2.  This weekend you have the opportunity to tour the gun battery by lantern light and learn about how soldiers defended the U.S. coast.  There is a limit of 30 for this tour and pre-registration is required.  Cost is $5 per person, and it is for ages 10 and up only.  Call 302-645-6852 to register or get more information.

Sunday, May 27th:  Concerts in Cupola Park
Head down to Cupola Park in Millsboro from 6pm-8pm for a free outdoor concert sponsored by Thoro-Good’s Concrete.  This week’s performers are “The Funsters,” a ten-piece band that has been performing together for over 12 years!  Performing a wide variety of pieces from Frank Sinatra to the Beatles to the Rolling Stones and more, this band has roots in Southern Delaware and enjoys playing to their home crowd!

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!

Splurges For Your Bathroom

Yesterday I suggested some ideas for remodeling your bathroom on a budget. Today I’m focusing on the best splurges to make if you’re planning a bathroom upgrade and have some money to spend!

Yesterday I suggested some ideas for remodeling your bathroom on a budget.  Today I’m focusing on the best splurges to make if you’re planning a bathroom upgrade and have some money to spend!

Heated flooring – add this luxurious benefit to any bath and your feet will thank you!

Water resistant entertainment – a sound system or television specially designed for bathroom installation might interest you if you want to enjoy your time in the bathroom a little more!

Go for luxury – adding a fireplace gives the feel of a luxury suite every day. Mmmm!!!

A double vanity – many people consider this a “must have,” but if you don’t, a spacious double vanity should definitely be added to your list.

A fancy shower – many “dream” bathrooms contain beautiful tubs that their owners rarely use.  If you’re more of a shower person, invest in your shower instead.  Adding dual showerheads, a body spray, and/or a bench can take your shower to a whole new level of luxury!

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!

Update Your Bathroom On A Budget

It’s bathroom week here on the Cooper Realty blog! Everyone spends time in the bathroom every day, so shouldn’t it be a room that you enjoy? If you’ve been dreaming of updating your bathroom, but you don’t have a huge budget, consider these tips.

It’s bathroom week here on the Cooper Realty blog!  Everyone spends time in the bathroom every day, so shouldn’t it be a room that you enjoy?  If you’ve been dreaming of updating your bathroom, but you don’t have a huge budget, consider these tips.

Go white to save green!  Sticking to traditional white features such as sinks, tubs, and toilets will save you a ton of money because they are more readily available than their colorful counterparts.

Change out your hardware.  If you don’t have the budget to replace cabinets, give them a low-cost face lift with new hardware.  For a more dramatic impact you can paint or otherwise refinish cabinetry and then replace the hardware!

Organize your cabinets.  Adding pullout shelves to cabinets will maximize your storage space and ease the frustration you feel when you can’t find what you’re looking for!

Go for style.  Keep most of what already exists, but change out a few key pieces to add style and drama to your space.  For example, replace your faucets and/or showerhead with a lovely new piece or switch out existing lighting for a dramatic chandelier.

Change the color.  Painting is a fairly inexpensive weekend project.  Follow-up by replacing hand towels and adding colorful accents such as vases, candles, and soaps.

Save on tile.  If you love a specific tile that is far too expensive for you to afford, consider using a more affordable alternative (or keeping your existing tile!) and using the tile you love for a border or randomly placing a few here and there to create an interesting pattern.

Pinpoint your complaint.  Sometimes changing just one aspect of a room will make you feel like you’re in a whole new space, so determine what it is that really bothers you about your space.  For example, if your sink is in good condition, but the vanity bothers you, would replacing just the counter do the trick?  Could you keep all of your features and just replace the floor?  Keep the tub but replace the shower head and faucet?  Specifically identifying problems and addressing them individually will save you a ton of cash!

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!

Spotlight on Big Fish Grill, Rehoboth Beach

Looking to try some place new for dinner tonight? Try Big Fish Grill in Rehoboth! This casual dining restaurant is great for families, business lunches, hanging out with friends, or, if you sit in one of the high-backed booths even a private date!

Looking to try some place new for dinner tonight?  Try Big Fish Grill in Rehoboth!  This casual dining restaurant is great for families, business lunches, hanging out with friends, or, if you sit in one of the high-backed booths even a private date!

The food is well-prepared and delicious!  Their daily specials demonstrate their underlying commitment to freshness, and the service is great too!  They even offer special carry-out deals, if that’s more your speed.  Everything I’ve ever had at Big Fish Grill has been great, but I especially like the Lobster Bisque & Grilled Salmon.

One last thing I really like about Big Fish Grill is that they offer cooking classes!  The classes don’t run during the summer since it’s their busiest season, but they’ll begin again in October, so check back then!

Looking to buy or sell a home in or around the Rehoboth Beach area?  Give us a call at Cooper Realty Associates and put us to work for you – 302-644-2266!

5 Tips For Pricing Your Home To Sell

Earlier this week I talked about what to do if your house won’t sell. And, like I mentioned in that post, the price of the home is the aspect that sellers have the most control over. Even though the right pricing strategy can take a home off the market quickly, it’s amazing how many people still make mistakes when pricing their home. Here are five tips for pricing your home right the first time!

Earlier this week I talked about what to do if your house won’t sell.  And, like I mentioned in that post, the price of the home is the aspect that sellers have the most control over.  Even though the right pricing strategy can take a home off the market quickly, it’s amazing how many people still make mistakes when pricing their home.  Here are five tips for pricing your home right the first time!

1. Find an agent you trust:  Don’t just hire the agent that quotes you the highest list price for your home.  If they quote you a high price to insure that they get your listing, but then your home sits on the market forever because the price is too high, that’s counterproductive and you end up having to slash your price anyway.  The best idea is to interview several agents and choose someone who can back up their suggested list price with recent comps.  Which brings me to point number two…

2. Get the comps:  Once you have an agent you trust, ask them to prepare a comparative market analysis of similar homes that have sold recently in your area.  This is more important than looking at the list price of other homes for sale in your area, because the comps will tell you what the home actually sold for, which is often quite a bit lower than the original list price.

3. Pick the correct price:  Pricing your home correctly right out of the gate will gain the attention of serious buyers and sell your home faster.  If you have to list your home for less than you’d like to make this happen, think of it this way… it will cost you more in the long run to pay the costs associated with owning your home if it sits on the market for several months while you’re dreaming about an unrealistic asking price.  Then you’ll have to lower the price anyway, so wouldn’t you rather just price it right from the get go?

4. Price with the market:  If your house is priced to high from the start, you will most likely find yourself making price drops after several months on the market with no interest.  Dropping your price is a good strategy, but everyone else (whose homes were priced more reasonably to begin with) is dropping their prices too, meaning that your home is still the highest priced home on the market and will never catch up with the competition.  Instead of dropping the price several times causing buyers to wonder what’s wrong with your property, price it competitively from the start, rather than holding out for the high end of the market.  Remember, the more competitive the price you start with, the better the chance you will sell quickly for a higher price than if you wait it out and negotiate 6 months down the road.

5. Don’t balk at lowball offers:  When selling your home it’s hard not to be emotionally attached, but buyers most likely aren’t feeling the same way, so don’t be offended by lowball offers.  Use them as a jumping off point for negotiation and let it drop only if the buyer makes it clear they are not serious about buying.

Looking for a real estate agent you can trust to help you through the whole process of pricing and selling your home?  Give us a call at Cooper Realty Associates and let us show you why we’re the best — 302-629-6693.

Thursday Three: 3 Staging Suggestions

They key to successful staging is a clean & clutter free space that prospective buyers can imagine themselves living in. If it is done well, nobody will be able to tell you’ve done anything at all!

They key to successful staging is a clean & clutter free space that prospective buyers can imagine themselves living in.  If it is done well, nobody will be able to tell you’ve done anything at all!

Bathroom:  Remove personal items such as toothbrushes, make-up, hair products, etc. from counter space.  Be sure the entire room is clean, and invest in a new shower curtain and some hand towels.  (Do NOT stack towels, tie them with a ribbon, fold the toilet paper into a pocket and put flowers in it, or in any other way make your home bathroom look like a maid from a luxury hotel cleaned it.)

Kitchen/Dining Room:  Be sure the table and chairs and clean and clutter free place a simple centerpiece on the table – a vase of fresh flowers is always a nice touch!  Be sure that kitchen counters are clear and clutter free (put any large appliances away in cabinets or closets) – a simple bowl or basket of fruit gives a clean, open look – go for multiple colors! (Do NOT set the table with a full place setting!)

Bedroom:  Invest in nice bedding and be sure there are night tables on each side of the bed.  For the master bedroom include a dresser and chest of drawers.  If the room seems crowded, use a double bed and put your larger bed in storage for the time being.  (Do NOT drape a throw, stack multiple books on the end table, or place any kind of tray on the bed or otherwise stage in a way that in no way reflects the way you live!)

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: May 18-20th

There are a lot of great events happening in the area this weekend! Take a look & check some of them out this weekend!!!

There are a lot of great events happening in the area this weekend!  Take a look & check some of them out this weekend!!!

All Weekend:  Rehoboth & Dewey Beach 29th Annual Sidewalk Sale
It’s a great weekend to find deals!  Shop downtown Rehoboth Beach, downtown Dewey Beach & even Route One!  Sales run from 10am-8pm (although some stores may have different hours), Friday 5/18-Sunday, 5/20.

Saturday, May 19th:  Kickoff to Summer Party at the Rehoboth Beach Museum
Music, food, a raffle, prizes and more!  $25 for members, $35 for non-members.  Reservations are required. 4pm-6pm

Saturday, May 19th: Youth Fishing Tournament
7am-2pm; Rain date, Sunday, 5/20.  Kids 15 and under are invited to participate in Cape Henlopen’s annual Youth Fishing Tournament.  Cost is $10 per entrant and registration is at the fishing pier in Cape Henlopen State Park.  The first 50 entrants get free t-shirts & prizes are awarded!  Fishing was never my thing, but when we were kids, my brother and cousins always participated in this event and had a great time!

Saturday, May 19th: Maritime Day Celebration
9am-4pm; National Maritime Day was first celebrated in 1933.  Come celebrate it this year at the Lewes Ferry Terminal.  Admission is free and the ferry bridge and engine room will be open for tours.  There will also be art & maritime exhibits.

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.

What To Do If Your Home Won’t Sell

Has your house been on the market for awhile and it’s still not selling? Assuming it is in saleable condition, if your home is still on the market, it is most likely priced too high for the area. Luckily for you, of the three basic elements that sell a home (location, condition & price), price is the one you, as a seller, can control!

Has your house been on the market for awhile and it’s still not selling?  Assuming it is in saleable condition, if your home is still on the market, it is most likely priced too high for the area.  Luckily for you, of the three basic elements that sell a home (location, condition & price), price is the one you, as a seller, can control!

So, how do you know if you need to lower the price of your home?  Ask your real estate agent what the average time is for houses to be on the market in your area.  If your house has been on the market for longer than that, then you should consider lowering your price.  Another indicator that you may need to lower the price is if your house has been on the market for several months with low to no interest.  In many areas, home prices are continuing to fall, so even if your home was pried well when you first listed it, if it’s been sitting on the market for awhile, you may need to adjust it.

Once you decide that you need to lower the price of your home, you need to decide how low to go.  That decision should be based on local market research.  Again, to make the best decision you need to have a real estate agent that you trust and seek out their advice.  Ask your agent for a new comparative market analysis (comps), and be sure that the comps are recent.  If you put your home on the market without having it appraised, having it done now could help you even more.

Trying to sell your home?  Looking for an agent you can trust?  Give us a call at Cooper Realty and let us help you sell your home – 302-856-6434.