Author: Connie - Gadget Girl

5 Reasons to Retire to the Delaware Beaches

Delaware Today recently published an article on why Kent and Sussex Counties are great places to retire. After reading it, I began to think of the many reasons that retiring to the Delaware beaches is ideal for many people. Here are my top five reasons…

Delaware Today recently published an article on why Kent and Sussex Counties are great places to retire.  After reading it, I began to think of the many reasons that retiring to the Delaware beaches is ideal for many people.  Here are my top five reasons:

  1. No sales tax
    Delaware is one of only five states with no sales tax.  This makes the cost of living lower than many other places, a real plus for retirees on a fixed income.
  2. Low property taxes
    Property taxes in Delaware are among the lowest in the country.  In addition to lower property taxes, other tax perks for retirees in Delaware include no tax on social security benefits and no inheritance or estate taxes.
  3. Location
    Sussex County Delaware is a day trip away from Baltimore, Washington D.C., New York, Philadelphia, and many other places, so for people who like a slower pace of life with access to big city amenities, Delaware is a great choice!  It’s also ideal for people wishing to retire near family.
  4. Culture
    There’s plenty to do in Sussex County, but it’s also a short drive from many cities saturated with all the culture you could ever hope for (see #3!).
  5. Beauty
    Delaware boasts a significant amount of coastline, and the Delaware shores offer pristine natural beauty that offer a wonderful environment for retirement.

Thinking of retiring to Sussex County?  Give us a call at Cooper Realty Associate and let us help you find the ideal home – 302-644-2266!

The Thursday Three: 3 18-Hole Golf Courses

If you love to golf, there are plenty of courses in Sussex County that are worth checking out. Here are three of them…

If you love to golf, there are plenty of courses in Sussex County that are worth checking out.  Here are three of them: 

Baywood Greens
Baywood Greens is an “exclusively public 18-hole championship golf course.”  This highly rated course in Longneck has been called both beautiful and interesting.  Covering over 6,000 yards, this scenic course offers both a challenge and a good time!  After a round of golf, you can even enjoy a delicious meal at the Baywood Clubhouse Restaurant with their popular “Gold & Dine” package. 

The Rookery
This popular course in Milton covers nearly 6,500 yards with a par of 71.  The Rookery offers a “championship 18-hole layout” and is open to the public year round.  The Rookery offers a wonderful playing experience for golfers of all abilities.  The Rookery offers many different packages which can be customized to your unique needs. 

Old Landing
This course, one of the most established courses in Sussex County, features over 6,000 yards of golf and a par of 71.   Old Landing is open to the public and offers a fun and interesting playing experience for a reasonable cost.  Instruction and memberships are also available. 

Interested in 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 – April 20th-22nd

Whether you want to celebrate Spring, do good for the environment, or stuff your face with some succulent barbeque, this weekend holds something for you… enjoy!

Whether you want to celebrate Spring, do good for the environment, or stuff your face with some succulent barbeque, this weekend holds something for you… enjoy!

Friday, April 20th-Sunday, April 22nd – Pork in Park BBQ Festival in Salisbury, MD
This family-friendly BBQ festival is the largest KCBS Festival on the East Coast.  Last year there were over 140 competitive BBQ teams and more than 35,000 attendees!  Competing teams will be cooking up succulent pork, chicken, and beef in hopes of winning cash and prizes.  Categories to be judged include whole hog, beef, chicken, pork, ribs, “anything butt”, seafood, and dessert.  This competition takes place within an exciting festival that is fun for the whole family.  Enjoy live music and entertainment, amusement park rides, and delicious BBQ and festival foods.  For a list of events and schedule of activities check out this link.  Cost is $2 per person, and kids 12 and under are free.  Festival hours are Friday 4pm-10pm, Saturday 10am-10pm, and Sunday 11am-5pm.

Saturday, April 21st – Spring Into Spring Festival in Georgetown, DE
Head down to The Circle in Georgetown to enjoy live music, good food, children’s activities, crafts, entertainment, and more.  12pm-9pm.  For more info and a schedule of activities check out this link. 

Saturday, April 21st – Earth Day Beach Cleanup in Fenwick Island, DE
Want to do good for the environment and your community?  Volunteer to help out at the Earth Day Beach Cleanup in Fenwick Island State Park.  Cleanup is from 9am-12pm at the parking lot of the main beach bathhouse at the south end of the park.  Call 302-227-6991 for more info. 

Saturday, April 21st – The 23rd Annual Ocean to Bay Bike Tour in Bethany Beach, DE
More than a thousand cyclists of all ages participate in this yearly event.  This event is sold out for participation, but there will be festivities at the start/finish line from 10am-1pm for those who want to head down to cheer on the participants!  The start/finish line is at Garfield & Pennsylvania, next to PNC Bank in Bethany Beach.  Check out this link for more info.

Interested in buying or selling a home in Southern Delaware?  Give us a call at Cooper Real Estate Associates and put us to work for you — 302-629-6693!

Property Hunting in Seaford, Delaware

If you’re thinking of moving to Sussex County, Seaford is worth a look. With great schools, community activities throughout the year, and a thriving downtown area, Seaford is one of America’s best small towns! If you think Seaford might be an ideal location for you, check out these great homes…

If you’re thinking of moving to Sussex County, Seaford is worth a look.  With great schools, community activities throughout the year, and a thriving downtown area, Seaford is one of America’s best small towns!  If you think Seaford might be an ideal location for you, check out these great homes: 

24232 Beaver Dam Drive
This charming 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath home includes a formal dining room, family room, screened-in pation, and laundry room.  This home features hardwood floors, multiple fireplaces, walk-in closets, and includes all appliances.  This beautiful colonial is listed for $169,900. 

200 Clearbrooke Boulevard
This gorgeous 4 bedroom, 2 bath home features over 1800 square feet of living space on just under half an acre.  This home features dual master bedrooms, walk-in closets, insulated doors & windows, and 2 car garage.  This lovely Cape Cod-style home is listed for $187,000. 

Interested in one of these homes, or perhaps others in the area?  Give us a call at Cooper Realty Associates and let us help you find your dream home – 302-629-6693.

Tips for Spring Cleaning

For some people, spring cleaning is not a big deal because they keep their home meticulously clean all year round, but for others (like me!) spring is the perfect time to do a little deep cleaning to make your home sparkle! If you’re like me, here are some tips to help you take this huge undertaking and break it down into manageable pieces. Trust me, at the end, when your home is shining, it is totally worth it!

Spring is well under way, and though we’ve had several weeks of awesome weather already, we can expect it to start warming up more permanently in the coming days. If you haven’t already done so, now is the perfect time to get a little spring cleaning done! For some people, spring cleaning is not a big deal because they keep their home meticulously clean all year round, but for others (like me!) spring is the perfect time to do a little deep cleaning to make your home sparkle! If you’re like me, here are some tips to help you take this huge undertaking and break it down into manageable pieces. Trust me, at the end, when your home is shining, it is totally worth it!

Step 1: Room by Room
For each room in your house, pick up clutter. Throw away any trash and irreparable objects and separate anything that you want to sell or donate. Make sure everything you own has a “home” and keep them there! Dust and vacuum each room, pulling out and moving furniture to clean around it. Here are some room by room tips:

  • Bedrooms – clean blankets and comforters according to care instructions, wash mattress pads and bed skirts, rotate and/or flip mattresses, and freshen pillows using the air (no heat) setting of the dryer
  • Bathrooms – clear your medicine cabinet and discard outdated products, throw away any old bath products that can no longer be used, replace shower curtain liners, and wash or replace shower curtains and bath mats
  • Kitchen – Clean out your cabinets and drawers – wipe them out with a damp cloth and organize contents, clean out your pantry and discard stale spices or expired items, clean the inside and outside of your refrigerator and freezer, and pull out appliances as far as you can and vacuum around them

Step 2: Wash Windows
Using a traditional or homemade window washing solution, clean windows both inside and out. Black and white print newspaper is best for cleaning windows because it doesn’t leave any residue behind, but don’t use any colored newsprint or your windows will look like bad stained glass! It is also best to clean windows on a cloudy day because washing windows when its sunny can cause streaks.

Step 3: Clean Window Treatments
There’s no sense in having clean windows with dirty window treatments! If your curtains or drapes are really dirty you can put them through the washing machine or have them dry cleaned (read your care instructions!), but most of the time your curtains can probably be cleaned by using the proper attachment on your vacuum cleaner.

Step 4: Check for Safety
Change the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and test them to make sure they’re working. If you own a fire extinguisher, make sure its not expired and if you don’t own one, purchase one and learn how to use it!

Step 5: Deep Clean Carpets
Rent a professional grade carpet cleaner and deep clean all the carpets in your house, or hire professionals to do it for you. It’s best to do this after all your other cleaning is done, so that your fresh carpets don’t get covered with residue from all your other cleaning jobs.

Step 6: Clean Your Exterior
Spring is the perfect time to clean the outside of your home – rent a power washer and wash the exterior of your home as well as driveways and sidewalks. If you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, you can always hire a professional.

Don’t forget:

  • Sliding door tracks – these might not seem like a big deal, but having them clean makes a huge difference! Use a dry toothbrush to loosen dirt and then vacuum it up. If you want an even deeper clean use a wet rag or sponge to finish the job.
  • Light fixtures – make sure the electricity is off and bulbs are clean then dust with a microfiber cloth and wipe light bulbs down with a rag moistened with vinegar
  • Baseboards and doorframes – Put a few drops of dishwashing liquid in a bucket and dilute it with warm water then wipe down baseboards and doorframes with a sponge
  • Walls – walls can be cleaned with the same mixture used for baseboards and doorframes

Interested in buying or selling a home in Southern Delaware? Give us a call at Cooper Real Estate Associates and put us to work for you — 302-856-6434!

Spotlight on Fort Miles

Fort Miles is/will be receiving a lot of attention in the coming days because a relic from World War II is currently making its way toward Fort Miles. The 16 inch gun headed to Cape Henlopen was part of the heavy weaponry on the battleship USS Missouri.

Fort Miles was a key piece of our nation’s coastal defense during World War II, and it is located in what is now Cape Henlopen State Park.  Fort Miles is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and is a great place to learn about the role of the Delaware shore during World War II.  Fort Miles is/will be receiving a lot of attention in the coming days because a relic from World War II is currently making its way toward Fort Miles.  The 16 inch gun headed to Cape Henlopen was part of the heavy weaponry on the battleship USS Missouri.  Although this exact gun was never at Fort Miles, it is similar to the two Army guns housed there, ready to defend the coastline should the need arise.  The gun is 66 feet long, weights a quarter of a million pounds, and could shoot a 1-ton shell around 23 miles!  This massive gun is set to arrive in Georgetown on Monday, April 16th and make its way to Cape Henlopen from there.  Nobody is exactly sure when the gun will arrive at Fort Miles, but in the meantime you can take a tour or participate in the interpretive program at Fort Miles.  The Orientation Building is open from 10am-4pm on Tuesday-Saturday.

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

Summer Camps for Kids, Part 2

Now that it’s mid-April, if there are kids in your life that need/want to go to summer camp, you shouldn’t wait much longer to register. Spots at the best camps fill up quickly! Here are a few other great area camps I came across while researching for last week’s 5 Great Summer Camps at the Beach post. Check them out and get registered!

Now that it’s mid-April, if there are kids in your life that need/want to go to summer camp, you shouldn’t wait much longer to register.  Spots at the best camps fill up quickly!  Here are a few other great area camps I came across while researching for last week’s 5 Great Summer Camps at the Beach post.  Check them out and get registered!

Music School of DE in Milford
With branches in Milford and Wilmington, the Music School of Delaware offers several summer programs for children of all ages and even adults!

Delaware Technical Community College in Georgetown
Del Tech is not just for adults.  This college also offers camps for kids from ages 5-15 on all of its campuses.  Summer sessions run from June 18th-August 17th and there is a wide variety to choose from.  There are sessions for academics, art, career exploration, culinary arts, enrichment, the environment, science, sports & fitness, and technology.  No matter what your kids are interested there is sure to be a program to interest them, everything from “Learn How to Draw Superheroes” to “Renewable Energy Camp” to “Create Your Own Video Game” and a ton of other options!  Cost depends on the type of camp and whether you choose half day or full day sessions.  You can even mix and match camps to create a full summer of fun!  Scholarships are available.

Sussex Family YMCA Day Camps
The YMCA is known for its quality childcare, and their outdoor summer camps offer fun for kids from ages 2.5-15 years old.  Camps at the Sussex Family YMCA in Rehoboth Beach run in one week sessions from May 29-August 24 with each week offering a different, age appropriate theme.  Older kids even get to walk to the beach!  There are also separate sports camps.  Cost ranges from $98-$180 depending on the age of the child and the theme of the camp.  Financial assistance is available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Trap Pond State Park Camp in Laurel
Trap Pond State Park offers 4 different “Discovery Camp” sessions from  July 16-August 10.  These week long camp sessions are geared for ages 8-12 and run from 9am-4pm each day.  Activities include hiking, biking, games, fishing, boating, nature study, and crafts.  Cost is $160 per week.

Looking to buy or sell a home in Southern Delaware?  Give Cooper Realty Associates a call and put us to work for you – 302-629-6693!

Thursday Three: 3 Ways To Lower Your Homeowner’s Insurance Premium

There are many reasons that your homeowner’s premium might go up, but if you’re looking to lower yours, try any of these quick tips…

There are many reasons that your homeowner’s premium might go up, but if you’re looking to lower yours, try any of these quick tips:

  1. Call competitors – Yes, it can be time consuming, but calling several companies for rate quotes can end up saving you quite a bundle in the long-run.  Just make sure the quotes you are getting match the coverage your currently have, otherwise it’s not a good comparison.  In some cases, switching carriers could save you up to 10% annually!
  2. Package it – Depending on your carrier, you may be able to get a better rate if you bundle your homeowners insurance with your auto coverage.  If you currently have separate policies, call both companies and ask about package discounts.  Who knows, maybe you’ll even save some money on car insurance while you’re at it!
  3. Raise your deductible – A deductible is the amount of money you will have to pay out of pocket before your insurance kicks in.  If you’ve got some money set aside to cover unexpected expenses then raising your deductible can save you a significant amount each month.

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

Weekend Update – April 13-15

It’s time to start planning the weekend! Here are a few great options for April 13-15, no matter what your taste…

It’s time to start planning the weekend!  Here are a few great options, no matter what your taste:

Thursday, April 12th – Sunday, April 15th: The 3rd Annual Lewes Tulip Festival
Head into Historic Lewes to take part in the 3rd Annual Lewes Tulip Festival, where beauty blooms.  Activities abound throughout the town, surrounded by more than 10,000 tulips!  Click here for a schedule of events. 

Friday, April 13th – Saturday, April 14th: Dewey Beach Popfest
Want to enjoy live music and an energized, good time?  Check out Popfest hosted by The Rusty Rudder in Dewey Beach (113 Dickinson Street).  Hear Power Pop, Britpop & Pop Punk bands on four stages all weekend.

Saturday, April 14th:  Annual Flea Market at Cape Henlopen State Park
This flea market takes place at the Seaside Nature Center in Cape Henlopen State Park from 9am-3pm.  If you have items to donate they may be donated at the Nature Center on Friday, 4/13 from 10am-1pm.  There are some good deals to be had, so check it out!  (In case of rain the flea market will be held in the Auditorium.)

Saturday, April 14th:  Kiwanis Club Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser
Support the Kiwanis Club as they raise money for local children’s charities.  Enjoy all you can eat pancakes, sausage, coffee, tea, and orange juice at the Applebee’s in Rehoboth Beach (36501 Seaside Outlet Drive).  Tickets are $6.

Saturday, April 14th: The Atlantic Pearl Harbor
The Georgetown Public Library will be hosting a program called “The Atlantic Pearl Harbor: German U-Boats, Fort Miles and the Delaware Coastline” at 11am.  Hear about Fort Miles in Lewes and the terror threat presented to the East Coast by German U-boats during World War II.  This event is free and open to the public, but you must register by contacting the Georgetown Public Library (302-856-7958).

Thinking of buying or selling a home in Southern Delaware?  Give Cooper Realty Associates a call and put us to work for you – 302-644-2266!

 

Property Hunters: Georgetown Condos

Georgetown is described by its Chamber of Commerce as a “community with small town charm, historic appeal, cultural diversity and excellent educational facilities-just west of Delaware’s award winning beaches, just 16 miles from anywhere in Sussex County!” If this ideal location sounds good to you, check out these two properties…

Georgetown is described by its Chamber of Commerce as a “community with small town charm, historic appeal, cultural diversity and excellent educational facilities-just west of Delaware’s award winning beaches, just 16 miles from anywhere in Sussex County!”  If this ideal location sounds good to you, check out these two properties:

11 Jacqueline Drive
This 3 bed, 2.5 bath townhome is just over 1500 square feet of living space in the beautifully maintained, traditional community of Northgate Court.  It offers a convenient open floor plan, beautiful spacious kitchen, breakfast bar, back deck, laundry room, basement, and much more, and is currently listed for $160,000.  For more info and pictures, check out this link.

16 Mulberry, Unit 19
This 3 bed, 2 bath townhome offers plenty of living space in the Village of Cinderberry, an active 50+ community.  This home offers a dining room, laundry room, and attached garage as well as plenty of other amenities, including use of the community clubhouse and pool.  This home is currently listed for $195,000.  For more info and pictures, check out this link.

If you are interested in either one of these homes, or in looking at other homes in Georgetown or the surrounding areas, give us a call at Cooper Realty Associates and put us to work for you – 302-856-6434.

Tips for Buying Your Retirement Home

There are many reasons to choose a purchase a home to retire to, but moving can be tricky and it can be difficult to feel like you’ve made the “right” decision when it comes to a retirement home. Here are some tips that might help make the decision easier.

Retirement often means moving.  After retiring, many people wish to move to a smaller home or a home that requires less maintenance.  Others finally have an excuse to move to their dream location after years of being stuck in a certain area because of their job.  Still others choose to make a vacation home their full-time residence.  There are many reasons to choose a purchase a home to retire to, but moving can be tricky and it can be difficult to feel like you’ve made the “right” decision when it comes to a retirement home.  Here are some tips that might help make the decision easier.

“Active Adult Community” vs. Traditional Community
 They can be called active adult communities, 55+ communities, or a myriad of other things, but the truth is that these types of communities can be a great option.  If you are interested in having a lot of recreational and social activities to choose from then an active adult community might be for you.  These communities usually offer golf, tennis, swimming, and/or other recreational activities for a monthly fee.  This fee is usually a fraction of what it would cost you to pay for all of the individual amenities yourself.  When you are trying to decide whether or not to look at 55+ communities or purchase a home in a more traditional community seriously consider how often you think you will use amenities such as tennis courts, a swimming pool, or a clubhouse.  If the answer is “not often” then it might be worth it for you to live in a more traditional community and pay a-la-carte for the things you desire, such as someone to mow the lawn or take care of snow removal.

Location
Make a list of all the things that are most important then look for a home that is located near all of the amenities.  This list might include the beach, quality healthcare, shopping, golf, restaurants, and much more… whatever is on your list, do your best to find a home that is in the vicinity of your top choices.

Amenities
If you choose an active adult community the amenities should be part of your consideration, but don’t forget to consider amenities if you choose a more traditional path as well.  Is it important for you to have a garden?  Do you dream of sitting on a porch in the evenings?  Do you plan to host large family dinners? Consider what is most important to you and look for a home with these amenities or the ability to add these amenities easily and within your budget. 

Monthly Upkeep
When you are determining where to buy a home be sure to factor in the “hidden” costs of ownership.  For example, how much will it cost you monthly to have someone mow your lawn and keep up with the yard maintenance when the time comes that you no longer want to do it yourself?  If you choose an active adult community, be sure you know what the monthly fees are, what they cover, and when they were last raised and by how much.

Safety and Layout
Not only do you want a house in a safe and secure neighborhood, but you also want to consider the future.  If there comes a time in the very far future when you need a wheelchair or other medical equipment, will the home you choose be able to accommodate you.  These are things that nobody wants to think of when they retire and have plenty of life left in them, but the time to plan for these things is before they happen to you.

Cost
Everyone’s goal should be to retire debt-free, so the overall cost of your home is, of course, something to keep in mind.  Be sure you can afford your home.  Just think of the freedom you will have in retirement if you are living mortgage-free!

Above all, when considering where you will live after retiring, be sure to evaluate and consider both your current desires as well as your long-term needs.  And, of course, hire a real estate agent to help you through the process!  Recently, Delaware Today published an article about why Sussex Counties is such a great place to retire.  If you are thinking of retiring to Sussex County give us a call at Cooper Realty Associates and put us to work for you – 302-644-2266!

Spotlight on 30410 Seaford Road in Laurel, Delaware

Looking for a new place to call home? This 4 bedroom, 2 bath option could be just the ticket!

Looking for a new place to call home?  The historic town of Laurel might be the place for you.  This 4 bedroom, 2 bath option could be just the ticket!  With just over 1,300 square feet of living space on a little more than one acre of property includes hardwood floors, a 3-car garage, and an enclosed patio in addition to 4 bedrooms, kitchen, formal dining room, laundry room and more.  This charming home in historic Laurel is on the market for $130,000.  Check out this link for more information and photos.

Want to know more about this home?  Interested in buying or selling a home in Laurel or the surrounding areas?  Give us a call at Cooper Realty Associates and let us help you – 302-629-6693.

Five Great Summer Camps at the Beach

Are you looking for a great summer camp for your kids or grandkids? There are five great camps right here at the Delaware beaches! Check out these options…

Are you looking for a great summer camp for your kids or grandkids?  There are five great camps right here at the Delaware beaches!  Check out these options:

1.  Alley-Oop Skim Summer Camp in Dewey Beach
One of the most recognized names in the sport of skimboarding, Alley-Oop is heading into its 11th season of teaching.  All levels from the beginners basic to advanced are welcome at this day camp.  Their most popular camp, the “Delaware Full Session” is a week of instruction, demonstration, and practice combined with traditional summer fun!  All campers get a chance to participate in a mini-contest in SKIM USA format at the end of the week.  Alley-Oop runs week long (Monday-Friday) camp sessions from June 25th-August 10th.  The “Delaware Full Session” is for kids ages 6-16 and is priced at $375 for the week.

2.  Camp Arrowhead in Lewes
Camp Arrowhead is situated along the beautiful Rehoboth Bay.  Run by the Episcopal Diocese of Wilmington, Camp Arrowhead offers camping opportunities for kids entering grades 2nd-11th.  Camp Arrowhead offers programs specifically geared for each age group from their “Taste of Camp” which is a 3 night camp for kids entering 2nd and 3rd grade all the way through their “Pathfinder” program for 10th and 11th graders.  There is also a day camp offered for kids entering grades 3rd-6th.  Sessions run from Sunday to Friday or Saturday (depending on the session) from June 24th through August 11th.  Prices range from $255-$925 depending on the age, length of stay, and focus area of the camper.

3.  Cape Henlopen Summer Camp in Lewes
Cape Henlopen offers ten day camp options throughout the summer.  Each session is geared toward a specific age group from age 5-12 and focuses on a specific topic.  Sessions begin June 18th and run through August 17th.  Cost ranges from $60-$200 depending on the session chosen (length of sessions vary).  Sessions are:

  • Sea Sights & Sounds – 6/18-6/22 (ages 5 & 6)
  • Buddy Up with Nature – 6/25-6/29 (ages 7 & 8)
  • Tails & Scales – 7/2-7/3 (ages 5 & 6)
  • Fur & Feathers – 7/5-7/6 (ages 5 & 6)
  • Adventure Bound – 7/9-7/13 (ages 9 & 10)
  • Fit to Survive in Nature – 7/16-7/20 (ages 7 & 8)
  • Time Travelers – 7/23-7/27 (ages 10-12)
  • Enviro-Quest – 7/30-8/3 (ages 9 & 10)
  • Move Over Nature – 8/6-8/10 (ages 7 & 8)
  • Splash & Dash – 8/13-8/17 (ages 5 & 6)

4.  Clear Space Theater Company Camp in Rehoboth Beach
Clear Space Arts Institute offers five one-week day camp “intensives” ideal for the aspiring actor/actress in your midst!  Appropriate for grades 1-12, only 40 students are accepted to each week of this popular program, so early application is recommended.  During each session, kids work together to create & perform a condenses version of a popular musical or play.  This year 1st-3rd graders will produce Cinderella (7/9-7/13), 4th-6th graders will produce Mary Poppins (7/16-7/20), and 7th-12th graders will produce Hello Dolly (7/30-8/3).  There are also two all ages week – The Adventures of Sinbad (7/23-7/27) and Thoroughly Modern Millie (8/6-8/10).  Camp runs from 8:45-4:30 each day and tuition is $275 for the week.

5.  Kids Cottage in Rehoboth Beach
Kids Cottage runs popular day camps for kids from June 18th-August 24th.  Each week of camp is divided into three separate sessions based on age (age 3, ages 4-5, and ages 6-7) and each session has a fun theme to guide the week.  Some themes this year include “Adventureland”, “Going Green”, “Ooey Gooey Science,” and “Treasure Hunters.”  These camps are $149/week and fill up fast!

Thinking of buying or selling a home around the Delaware beaches?  Give us a call at Cooper Realty Associates and put us to work for you – 302-644-2266!

Thursday Three: 3 Tips for Organizing your Entryway

At its best an entryway should welcome people into your home and be an organized spot that makes your life easier! Here are three tips for organizing your entryway to allow for both beauty and function…

The entryway of a home is often either abused or underutilized.  At its best an entryway should welcome people into your home and be an organized spot that makes your life easier!  Here are three tips for organizing your entryway to allow for both beauty and function.

  1. Limit clutter – Don’t drop everything you’re holding in the entryway as soon as you enter.  Mail, keys, bags, shoes, coats etc. can clutter an area faster than you can blink, so make sure everything has a designated spot and put it away as soon as you walk in!
  2. Utilize multifunctional pieces – Multifunctional pieces that offer storage and fit your space are the key to having a welcoming, organized entryway.  For example, a chest can offer both seating and storage, a coat rack/bench combo has many uses, and a basket rack gives you a place to hang your coat as well as out of site storage for keys, mail, pet leashes, or anything else you might need to stash on your way in or out of the house.
  3. Have a key rack – Be sure to have a designated spot to put your keys as soon as you walk in the door.  Having your keys on hand will save you time and energy later when you need to run a quick errand or make it to an appointment on time!

Of course, once you put the time and energy into making sure your entryway is organized and inviting be sure to keep it that way by making new habits and maintaining them every time you walk through the door!

Are you looking to buy or sell a home in Southern Delaware?  Give us a call at Cooper Realty Associates and put us to work for you – 302-644-2266.

Weekend Update – April 6th-8th

Wednesday is here and it’s time to start thinking about weekend plans! With Easter this weekend, there are plenty of things to do. Here are some great options…

Wednesday is here and it’s time to start thinking about weekend plans!  With Easter this weekend, there are plenty of things to do.  Here are some great options:

Friday, April 6th:  44th Annual Great Delaware Kite Festival
Year after year, people come to Cape Henlopen State Park from all around to check out this popular, free event!  All kite-flying abilities are welcome, but you don’t have to participate to enjoy this fun festival!  There will be food, face painting, kite flying competitions, and a visit from the Easter Bunny.  Registration begins at 9am.

Saturday, April 7th:  Your Choice of Egg Hunts

  • Dewey Beach:  The Alley Oop Egg Scoop is hosted by Alley Oop Skim Shop at New Orleans Street and Dewey Beach.  This hunt begins at 10am for ages 2-5, 11am for ages 6-8 and 12pm for ages 9-12.  Registration is required, but available the morning of the hunt.
  • Georgetown:  This egg hunt takes place at the Marvel Carriage Museum at 12pm.  Face painting, train rides, moon bounce, food, visits from the Easter Bunny, and a coloring contest are also part of this fun event which runs from 11am-1pm.
  • Milford:  The Milford Blue Hen VFW at Post 6483 on Williamsville Road egg hunt begins at 10am and is open to all children ages 12 and under.
  • Millsboro:  This huge egg hunt features over 5,000 eggs and give-aways including an XBOX and a Wii!  This hunt is hosted by Bay Shore Community Church, but is open to the public and takes place in a field off of Highway 113 between Georgetown and Millsboro.
  • Millsboro:  This egg hunt is hosted at Cupola Park at 1pm and features an Easter Bonnet/Hat Contest and Easter Parade.

Sunday, April 8th:  Easter Sunday
Community Sunrise Service at the Rehoboth Beach Bandstand begins at 6:30am.  It is sponsored by the Lewes-Rehoboth Association of Churches.

Spring’s Promise!

Want to check out some great local art? Head down to Mispillion Art League in Milford and check out the “Spring’s Promise” exhibit…

Want to check out some great local art?  Head down to Mispillion Art League in Milford and check out the “Spring’s Promise” exhibit, on display from now through April 28th.  The promise of spring will be displayed in everything from sports to plants to animals and more!  If you’re a local artist, you can consider submitting your work for future exhibits.  Check out this link for more information and a list of upcoming shows.

Looking to buy or sell a home in Milford or surrounding areas?  Give us a call at Cooper Realty Associates and let us help you – 302-856-6434!

 

Boost Your Curb Appeal

When you’re trying to sell your home, you want buyers to fall in love at first sight! Here are a few tips to boost your property’s curb appeal…

You only get one chance to make a first impression, and first impressions are lasting.  We know this, yet when many people put their home on the market they don’t take the time to make sure that the first impression is a good one.  When you’re trying to sell your home, you want buyers to fall in love at first sight!

Here are a few tips to boost your property’s curb appeal:

  1. Take a picture.  You’re so use to seeing the outside of your house that you might not notice it anymore.  If you take a photo (or several photos) you may be able to see the property with new eyes.  Show the photos to friends, family, neighbors, etc. and ask them to point out any concerns they would have if they were thinking about buying the place.  Make a list and address as many of the concerns as you can, especially recurring concerns.
  2. Paint – It’s amazing what a fresh coat of paint can do for the exterior of a home.  If the entire home doesn’t need to be painted, consider freshening the trim, doors, shutters, and/or garage door.
  3. Clean & repair the driveway – Take the time to repair small cracks and rent a power washer to get that driveway clean.  If your drive way is a major mess, think about getting it redone.
  4. Spruce up landscaping – Keep your grass mowed and fertilized.  Rake your yard.  Edge along your sidewalks.  Plant some bright, low maintenance flowers – marigolds are a good choice!
  5. Replace your door – If your front door has seen better days, consider replacing it.  Remember, the door is what will welcome potential buyers into your home.  Make it a nice welcome!
  6. Clean – Wash your windows and doors (including screens), rent a power washer and spray down the deck, driveway, sidewalks, consider power washing the exterior of your home if you aren’t going to paint.
  7. Replace light bulbs – check the view of your home at night and replace any burned-out bulbs.  Consider adding lights if the property is in need of better lighting.

Of course the front of your house will offer the first impression to potential buyers, but don’t forget the back and side views as well!

Considering putting your home on the market?  Let us help.  Give us a call at Cooper Realty Associates and put us to work for you – 302-644-2266!

 

Spotlight on go fish!, Rehoboth Beach, Delaware

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!

5 Things To Keep in Mind About Foreclosures

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!

The Thursday Three: 3 Reasons to List Your Home With Cooper Realty

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!