Category: Of Interest

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!

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!

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.

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!

 

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!

What to Look for in a Home Inspection

After you’ve found your dream home comes the scary part… inspection! Home inspections are meant to educate the buyer about the home they are interested in and ultimately give them piece of mind about the decision they make….

After you’ve found your dream home comes the scary part… inspection!  Home inspections are meant to educate the buyer about the home they are interested in and ultimately give them piece of mind about the decision they make.  Inspections are scary because they are not intended to uncover every nitty gritty detail about the house, so even a home that passes inspection with flying colors still might have an issue that was undetected.  Home inspectors are not always able to pinpoint specific problems, but they are trained to examine the details of a home and determine if there might be any serious underlying issues.  At the very least, a home inspector should be able to suggest that you get the expert opinion of a plumber, electrician, or other specialized contractor if they feel there might be a problem.  When the home you love is being inspected, you should keep in mind that there are many problems that are fairly easy and cost efficient to take care of – these types of issues can even be bargaining chips in your negotiations with the seller.  There are several key problems, however, that can be a matter of safety.  If your inspector reports any of the following issues, you definitely want to keep in mind that these can be very costly and time consuming to fix.  Here are the issues that might cause you to reconsider the house, or at least reconsider how much you are willing to pay for it, considering you will most likely have costly repairs to make:

  • Foundation problems
  • Roof problems
  • Structural problems
  • Moisture issues (pooled water, wet basement, moisture in crawl spaces, improper drainage, etc.)
  • Mold issues (usually caused by moisture issues)
  • Fire, carbon monoxide, and/or safety hazards
  • Electrical hazards

In addition to finding out whether or not the home is plagued with any big problems like these, you should also be sure to find out how old the roof is, how old the furnace and water heater are and the condition they are in, whether or not the routine maintenance of the house appears to have been kept up, and whether or not the home’s exterior has proper drainage, which is especially important if the home has a basement.

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

Spotlight on Rehoboth Beach, Delaware

Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, the “Nation’s Summer Capital” is located about 30 miles north of Ocean City, Maryland. The two cities have many of the same beachy charms, but Rehoboth Beach wins the “which beach town is better” contest any day of the week in my book! And I’m obviously not the only one…

Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, the “Nation’s Summer Capital” is located about 30 miles north of Ocean City, Maryland.  The two cities have many of the same beachy charms, but Rehoboth Beach wins the “which beach town is better” contest any day of the week in my book!  And I’m obviously not the only one… the Mother Nature Network recently named Rehoboth Beach their destination of the week.

The article does a pretty good job of highlighting all the things I love about Rehoboth Beach, but as someone who has literally been coming here my entire life, here are some of my tried and true favorites.

  • The Beach – Obviously a highlight, the beach at Rehoboth is clean, well-patrolled, kid friendly, and close to bath houses and unlimited concessions.  You can’t go wrong!
  • Funland – This is, by far, my favorite part of Rehoboth Beach!  Rides like Paratrooper, Sea Dragon, and Bumper Cars are fun for the whole family.  The separate section of rides for little kids has brought joy to countless children over the years, and the variety of kitschy boardwalk games offer endless hours of fun for all ages!  My summer is never complete until I’ve raced some horses, bogged some frogs and tossed a dozen or so wiffle balls into colored goblets!
  • Skeeball – Okay, technically this is part of Funland, but skeeball is my favorite and at a quarter a game it’s one of the best values Funland has to offer!
  • Thrasher’s French Fries – I can’t step foot on Rehoboth Avenue without craving these delectable morsels of mouthwatering goodness!  When I’m in town a tub of these “best fries on the boardwalk” take the place of a meal, and I wouldn’t want it any other way!
  • The Ice Cream Store – With literally dozens of flavor signs hanging everywhere, this ice cream shop offers everything from the basics (chocolate, vanilla, strawberry, mint chocolate chip, etc.) to the unheard of (bacon, beer, booger – and those are just the Bs!) they’ve got something for everyone.  For me, evenings on the boardwalk always end with a cone from The Ice Cream Store.
  • Dolles – Dolles has the only saltwater taffy in Rehoboth Beach that is handmade from scratch…  pick some up for the ride home!
  • Grotto Pizza – Even in my own family not everyone agrees that Grotto has the best pizza on the beach, but it’s my favorite by far.  I especially love taking a break from the hot sun, getting lunch, and then heading back to the beach afterward!
  • Mini-golf – There are lots of great mini golf places in and around Rehoboth Beach – any of them are fun in my book!
  • The Sea Shell Shop – It doesn’t get more beach-kitschy than this!
  • Cape Henlopen — Technically, not part of Rehoboth Beach, but the article mentions it, so I couldn’t leave it off my list!  I’ve already sung Cape Henlopen’s praises here, so needless to say, it’s a must on my list!

These Rehoboth Beach staples are great any time of year, but summer is approaching, so you should definitely start making your plans to visit!

And if you’re interested in doing more than visiting, give us a call at Cooper Realty Associates and let us help you find your dream home in Rehoboth – 302-644-2266!

5 Things to Consider Before Refinishing a Basement

Do you have an unfinished basement that you are considering refinishing? A finished basement can give you a lot of extra living space and also add a lot of value to your home, but finishing a basement is a lot of work! Here are five things you should consider before you make any plans…

Do you have an unfinished basement that you are considering refinishing?  A finished basement can give you a lot of extra living space and also add a lot of value to your home, but finishing a basement is a lot of work!  Here are five things you should consider before you make any plans…

1.  Know the Safety Standards and Zoning Codes

Make sure all access points meet safety standards – do the stairs from the inside of the house meet building codes?  Are there any exterior entrances or does there need to be?  Is the ceiling high enough?  Will any structural support be altered?  Is there enough airflow?  Have you gotten any permits that you need for the work you’re planning to do?  And if you’re planning to refinish your basement as a rental unit, you will need to check with your local municipality to be sure that rentals are allowed in your neighborhood.

2.  Make Sure It’s Dry

Lots of basements flood.  If you want to finish your basement, you need to make sure the exterior of your house has good drainage.  If you have an older house, this is especially important.  If you’ve recently purchased your house, consider living in it for a year before making any plans to finish the basement.  See what it’s like in all seasons, so that you know what kind of moisture issues you are dealing with.  If your basement has moisture issues, take care of them before you do any finishing work.  Whether you need to install a drain, re-landscape for better drainage, reroute your gutters, install a sump pump, or waterproof the exterior of your house, not taking care of the issue before you finish your basement is like throwing time and money down the drain.

3.  Decide What It Will Be Used For

Finishing a basement just to have it finished is a bad idea.  Decide beforehand how the space is going to be used.  Will it be a family room?  An office?  Converted into bedrooms?  A media room?  A game room?  Your plans for the room will factor into your design and ultimately the amount of time and money it takes to do the work.  For example, a game room might just need some walls, flooring, and paint.  But more extensive projects will require you to think about electrical wiring, plumbing, and ventilation well in advance of starting the project.

4.  Decide How You’ll Weather-proof

There is no sense in refinishing an area that is too cold to use in the winter and too hot to use in the summer.  There are many different methods of insulating, and you should research them to decide what type will work best for your house.  In addition to insulation you want to make sure you have the proper heating and/or air conditioning installed in the space as well.  This might mean rerouting or adding duct work to your home, installing small wall units, or even upgrading your home’s existing system if it is not equipped to handle heating or cooling the extra space.  Again, you will want to do all of this research before you start any work so that you don’t end up with any big, unexpected costs, or worse, a lovely finished basement that can only be used for a few weeks out of the year due to climate control issues.

5.  Decide on the Finishing Touches

There are so many options for finishing the ceilings, walls, and floors of your newly improved space that you will want to do some research ahead of time.  A lot of these choices will depend on what you plan on using the space for (see #3), and I’m not suggesting you have every last detail down to your paint colors chosen before you start any work.  It is in your best interest, however, to do some research and narrow down your decisions ahead of time.  Putting this thought in before any work begins will prevent your costs from skyrocketing at the very end of the project.

Basements are versatile rooms that add useful living space to any home, but refinishing them poorly is not only a waste of money, but can also detract from the value of your home.  Spending time planning, researching, and fixing any existing issues before you begin work will save you a lot of hassle and money in the long run!

Are you looking for a new home?  (Perhaps one with a basement that is already finished?)  We’d love to help you find your dream home.  Give us a call at Cooper Realty Associates – 302-644-2266 and put us to work for you!

Tips for Hiring a Cleaning Service

The truth is, no matter who you are, hiring a maid service can give you a little extra time to spend on more enjoyable things! If you’ve been thinking of hiring a maid service, here are a few things to keep in mind…

If you’re like most of the people I know, you probably love your home but hate cleaning it!  More and more people are hiring maid services to help them out – some people hire help with the day-to-day cleaning and others hire help to come in once a month, or even less frequently.  The truth is, no matter who you are, hiring a maid service can give you a little extra time to spend on more enjoyable things!  If you’ve been thinking of hiring a maid service, here are a few things to keep in mind…

Insurance & Bonding

Make sure the company you hire is insured.  Your homeowners insurance may or may not cover an accident that occurs while I maid is working for you – for example if she slips and falls while mopping the floor, so the company you hire should have coverage that protects both the company and employees, but also your home.  Bonding is different than insurance – be sure that the company protects you and not just themselves in case of a problem like theft.

Hiring & References

Make sure the employees references and criminal background have been checked.  Find out if the maids are employees or subcontractors – generally speaking, you want a company that has employees.  If the workers are subcontractors be sure they are trained and insured.  Find out how long the company has been in business and ask for a list of references.  Call references and ask how long they’ve used the company, if they’ve ever had complaints and how they’ve been handled, and how highly they would recommend the service.

Customer Satisfaction

When calling references, find out how satisfied they are as customers.  Also ask if the company has any measures of customer satisfaction (but be sure to find out how they collected the data – it doesn’t mean much if the only customers they report are the ones that have given glowing testimonials!).  If the company cares about customer satisfaction and goes out of their way to measure it, they are probably the kind of company that will care about you.   While you’re at it, you should also find out how the company measures quality of service and how they assure that quality is maintained.  You want to make sure that whoever is working for you is working up to the standards you expect.  In the case of complaints, you will want to know if there is some kind of guarantee.  Make sure any guarantees are in writing and whether or not there are limitations.  Find out before you hire a maid or a service how complaints are handled and how long issues usually take to be resolved.

Products & Equipment

Find out who is responsible for providing products & equipment.  Some services provide their own supplies, while others expect you to provide everything.  If products are provided by the company keep in mind that many cleaning products contain harsh chemicals and/or poisons.  Be sure that everything the company uses is safe for pets and kids.  Even if you don’t have pets or children running around your house, as a rule you should avoid unsafe products for yourself too!  If the company uses environmentally friendly products, be sure they will still be effective for cleaning and disinfecting purposes.  Find out exactly what equipment the company expects you to provide (mop? vacuum? broom? rags? buckets? – and the list continues) and make sure you have it.  If the service provides their own equipment find out their policy for keeping things clean and up to date.  For example, if they use a vacuum with a dirty filter it isn’t going to do much good.  Similarly, you don’t want them using dirty rags that have only been rinsed clean to wipe down your kitchen counters.  If the company provides products and equipment, but you would rather provide your own, make sure that there is a policy in place for you to do so.

Legality

When you hire a cleaning service you want to be sure that everything is above board.  Know both the federal and state tax laws for your situation and follow them.  You should also be sure that you are hiring legally documented workers.  Finally, know the ins and outs of any contract that you sign.  Understand your rights as a consumer and the recourse that you have if you are unhappy with the service that is provided.

And if you are not one of the people who love your home, give us a call at Cooper Realty and let us help you find a new home – 302-644-2266!

 

5 Ways to Make Your Home More Appealing to Buyers

If your home is on the market, but it’s not selling, consider putting in some time and elbow grease to make it more appealing to potential buyers. Here are five relatively inexpensive tips to help you market your home…

If your home is on the market, but it’s not selling, consider putting in some time and elbow grease to make it more appealing to potential buyers.  Here are five relatively inexpensive tips to help you market your home:

1.  De-clutter
You want to show off your home to potential buyers, not your stuff.  Even if you feel like your stuff is organized, the truth is it is still taking up space… space that will seem more appealing to buyers if it is empty, giving the illusion of more square footage.  Here are some tips to help you:

  • If you haven’t used it in over a year get rid of it – donate it or throw it away.
  • Pack up knick-knacks, books, photos, etc. – you want potential buyers to envision themselves in your home, but they won’t be able to do that if they see your family everywhere they look.
  • Get a small box for essentials (toothpaste, toothbrushes, etc) and put them out of site (like under the sink) when not in use.
  • Rent a storage unit – all homes show better with less furniture.  Remove pieces that are too bulky for their space, block walkways or doorways, or are not necessary.  For example, take the leaves out of your dining room table and store extra chairs – this will make your dining room seem larger.  If your guest room doubles as an office, either remove the desk and all office furniture or store the bed and other pieces of bedroom furniture.  You don’t want potential buyers to walk into a room and wonder what it’s used for.

Remember, de-cluttering goes for all areas of your home, so don’t think that boxing up your stuff and putting it in the garage, basement, or closet is helpful.  You want to be prepared for potential buyers to open every last door, drawer, and cabinet and scrutinize every last square inch of space.  What kind of impression would it give to open a closet door and see piles of stuff jumbled up?  At best this is distracting to potential buyers and at worse it can deter them.  Get rid of your stuff, get organized, and get potential buyers thinking about the space in your home as theirs.

2.  Clean
When a house sparkles it give buyers the impression that you are the kind of people that take good care of your things.  Everyone wants to buy a house that has been well cared for, so keep your house clean and increase your odds of selling.  In addition to daily cleaning, consider doing the following:

  • Rent a power washer and spray down your driveway, sidewalks, and exterior
  •  Wash windows inside and out
  • Dust for cobwebs
  • Re-caulk tubs, showers and sinks
  • Polish all faucets and mirrors and keep them polished
  • Get your carpets professionally cleaned and then vacuum daily
  • Dust not only your furniture, but light fixtures, picture frames, electronics, fan blades, and anything else that collects dust
  • Hang clean, fresh towels
  • Replace any worn out bedding or curtains
  • Eliminate any odors – all odors should be avoided, but be especially aware of pet odors.  You are accustomed to them, so ask a friend or neighbor who does not have a pet to come over and let you know if there are lingering odors.  As much as you love your pets, others may not and may even be allergic.  If you want to sell your home, don’t alienate buyers who are not “pet people.”
  • Wax floors

3.  Check curb appeal
You don’t want potential buyers to walk away before they even come inside!  Walk around your house and think about how it comes across to potential buyers.  If you can’t be objective ask a friend or neighbor for help.  Consider the following: edge sidewalks, trim bushes, plant flowers, add potted plants, mend fences, keep sidewalks cleared, keep the lawn mowed, paint faded trim, be sure that your house number is clearly visible.

4.  Make Minor Repairs
Even inexpensive repairs can make a big difference in showing a home.  Consider the following: tighten leaky faucets, patch holes in walls (even nail holes from those family photos you removed!), caulk or plaster where necessary, replace cracked tiles, fix doors that don’t close properly, fix windows or drawers that jam, replace burned out light bulbs or broken light fixtures, fix broken blinds, oil squeaky hinges or windows that get stuck, replace any window or door hardware that is broken or “tricky”

5.   Paint
Painting is relatively inexpensive (if you do it yourself) and is perhaps the one thing you can do to make the biggest impact on the way your home shows to potential buyers.  Paint all the walls in your home in neutral shades.  Stay away from white which can feel cold and clinical, and instead choose from one of the lovely, warm beige tones that exist.  Definitely avoid non-neutral colors – you don’t want potential buyers to remember your home as the “one with the green room.”

None of these suggestions require a large amount of money, but if you combine them with some time and elbow grease your home will be much more appealing to potential buyers.

Want help selling your home?  Give us a call at Cooper Realty Associates and let us help you – 302-644-2266!

Art at the Beach: Art to Experience in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware

Rehoboth Beach offers something for everyone. If you love art, here are a few local events and exhibitions you may be interested in checking out:

Rehoboth Beach offers something for everyone.  If you love art, here are a few local events and exhibitions you may be interested in checking out:

Performance Art:  My Fair Lady

Starting this week you can catch Clear Space’s reimagined version of the classic, My Fair Lady.  The show opens on March 16th and runs through April 1st.  Clear Space has several promotions on tickets including buy 4 tickets, get 1 free and a “pay what you can” night once during each run.  So, head down to Clear Space (20 Baltimore Ave., Rehoboth Beach) and watch the love story between odd couple Eliza Doolittle and Professor Higgins unfold!

“Young at Art”

This juried exhibition contains works by local artists.  The twist?  All of the artists are from elementary, middle, or high schools in Sussex County!  Check it out at Rehoboth Art League (12 Dodds Lane, Rehoboth Beach).  The exhibit runs until March 23rd.

Group Exhibitions at Gallery 50

From now through May there are revolving group exhibitions at Gallery 50 (50 Wilmington Avenue) in Rehoboth.  Check it out… you might find a new artist that you just love!

Get Your Art Seen

If you are an artist or crafter and you’re looking for opportunities to have your art seen, you can apply to be part of the Dewey Beach Arts Fest that is scheduled for Saturday, May 12th.  Dewey Business Partnership, which sponsors the event, is looking for artists and crafters but the application must be postmarked by this Thursday, March 15th, so don’t wait!

After you check out all this art, give us a call at Cooper Realty and let us help you find the perfect home to display it in – 302-644-2266!

Low Mortgage Rates Make It the Ideal Time to Buy

Heading into the spring quarter, mortgage rates are hovering around record lows, meaning that there’s never been a more affordable time to buy a home!

 

We set our clocks ahead yesterday, signaling the imminent arrival of Spring.  Spring typically brings a heightened home buying season with it.  This is great news for sellers, but there’s good news for buyers too.  Heading into the spring quarter, mortgage rates are hovering around record lows, meaning that there’s never been a more affordable time to buy a home!

On March 1st, Freddie Mac released the results of its Primary Mortgage Market Survey.  This survey found that rates on a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage are averaging around 3.9 percent with an average 0.8 point, rates that are nearly 1 percent lower than the 4.87 percent average reported last year around this time.  Similarly, the survey found that rates on a 15-year fixed-rate mortgage average around 3.17 percent with an average 0.8 point, nearly 1 percent lower than the 4.15 percent rate averaged at this time last year.  Adjustable-rate mortgages, of course, bottom out at even lower rates, some which haven’t been this low in decades.  So, if you’ve been waiting for a good time to buy a home, it looks like your opportunity is here!

Give us a call at Cooper Realty and let us help you find the perfect home – 302-644-2266!

Spotlight on Blue Water Grill in Millsboro, Delaware

Looking for a place to eat in Millsboro, or just wanting to check out a new local joint? Blue Water Grill in Millsboro, Delware has a great atmosphere and terrific food…

In Sussex County, towns like Lewes and Rehoboth Beach get a lot of publicity, and for good reason, but the inland town of Millsboro is a great town as well!  Last time I was there, I had no idea where to eat so I took a chance and walked into the Blue Water Grill (226 Main Street).  And let me tell you, I’m so glad I took that chance.  It was A-M-A-Z-I-N-G!!!

The atmosphere was laid-back and hip.  It was the kind of place that could be dressed up or down so that anyone would be comfortable.  You could throw on jeans and a t-shirt and bring the kids for a family meal, put on a suit and tie and bring your colleagues or customers for a business lunch, or dress up a little and come for date-night!

Atmosphere is great, but let’s talk food… that’s why you go to a restaurant in the first place, isn’t it?  Every bite of the food at Blue Water Grill was absolutely delicious.  I went for lunch with my husband and ordered the salmon sandwich.  I love salmon, and the sandwich did not disappoint, but it was the house horsey sauce that took it from yummy to Y-U-M-M-Y!  My husband had a burger and said it was one of the best burgers he’d ever had (and he LOVES burgers, so that’s high praise!).  Our entrees were delicious – even the fries were good, but it was our starter that left us wanting more.  The House Recipe Seafood Bisque was awesome!  I’m not exaggerating at all when I tell you that it was by far the best soup I’ve ever had.  We ordered a bowl to share, but we should’ve each ordered our own because we were practically fighting for the last spoonful.  I’m nearly drooling just thinking about it!

In case you couldn’t tell, I would highly recommend eating at the Blue Water Grill (you can check out their full menu here).  And while you’re in Millsboro you should look around a little bit; maybe you’ll decide it’s the perfect place for you.  If that’s the case, give us a call at Cooper Realty — 302-644-2266 and let us help you find your new home!

5 Reasons to Visit Cape Henlopen State Park in the Winter

Did you know that Cape Henlopen has a lot to offer in the winter months too? Here are 5 great activities for all ages that can be done any time of year…

Cape Henlopen State Park in Lewes, Delaware attracts thousands of visitors during the summer months when sunbathing, sand castle building, and swimming are prime activities for beach-goers.  But did you know that Cape Henlopen has a lot to offer in the winter months too?  Here are 5 great activities for all ages that can be done any time of year:

  1. Visit the Seaside Nature Center
    Open from 9am-4pm all year round, the Seaside Nature Center has many exhibits and displays, tanks full of local fish, and even a touch-tank!  It’s definitely worth a visit.
  2. Take a walk on the beach
    Who says the beach is only for summer?  Taking a winter walk along the beach is invigorating!  Not only can you enjoy different scenery than in the summer months, but there are no crowds to fight for it!  I can’t think of anything better than a relaxing stroll under sun, listening to the waves crash nearby.  So, what are you waiting for?  Bundle up and get out there!  There’s nothing more beautiful than a beach you have all to yourself.
  3. Hike or bike the trails
    There are 8 trails within Cape Henlopen, ranging from just over half a mile to 5 miles in length.  Some trails are designated for hiking only, but there are lovely, paved bike trails as well, and even an equestrian trail.  If you like to hike, you can even take part in the Delaware State Parks Trail Challenge – 3 of the trails are within Cape Henlopen!  If biking is more your thing, stop by the Seaside Nature Center (see #1!) to borrow a free bike from the Friends Park Pedal program and pedal around these beautiful trails!  If you want to check out the trails in advance, you can even download trail maps here.
  4. Check out one of the organized programs
    Cape Henlopen offers a wide variety of public programs for all different ages.  Many programs are family-friendly and some are even geared specifically for children!  Upcoming programs include a Winter Moon Hike, Awesome Amphibians, and a Youth Saltwater Tying Workshop.  Some events require a small fee, but most are free.  Pre-registration is often required, even for free events, so it’s best to call early and save your spot!  You can download the Spring 2012 program brochure here.
  5. Explore history
    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 for families and history buffs alike!  So take a tour, participate in the interpretive program, and find out more about the role of the Delaware shore in World War II.  The Fort Miles Orientation Building is open from 10am-4pm on Fridays and Saturdays through the end of March.  Beginning it April is open from 10am-4pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays as well.

These activities are available year round, but why wait for the heat and the crowds to take advantage of them?  Head over to Cape Henlopen soon and discover what the beach has to offer in March!  When you do, you’ll see for yourself why we love Cape Henlopen and the town of Lewes so much.  If you decide to stay give us a call at Cooper Realty – 302-644-2266 and let us help you find your new home!

Paint the Town Green! St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Historic Milton

Head to Historic Milton, Delaware this Sunday for the 5th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade, hosted by Irish Eyes Pub and Restaurant. The parade kicks off at 2pm and all proceeds benefit the Milton Fire Department Training Program…

With St. Patrick’s Day coming up, everyone is Irish!  Head to Historic Milton, Delaware this Sunday for the 5th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade, hosted by Irish Eyes Pub and Restaurant.  The parade kicks off at 2pm and all proceeds benefit the Milton Fire Department Training Program, Best Buddies Delaware, and Casa San Francisco.  Hang out at Irish Eyes after the parade for a quick drink, a bite to eat, or just to feel Irish for a wee bit longer!

While you’re in town, look around… Milton is a quaint, historic village with a lot to offer!  If you’re interested in becoming a part of it, give us a call at Cooper Realty and let us help you find your new home – 302-644-2266.

On The Fence About Home Ownership? Warren Buffett Advises You To Take The Risk!

Even though it’s a buyer’s market right now, many people are still on the fence about whether or not to purchase real estate. Check out legendary investor, Warren Buffett’s, advice in this video.

We all know that when it comes to real estate we are currently in a buyer’s market, but many people are still on the fence about whether or not to buy.  Are you one of them?  Legendary investor and one of the richest men in America, Warren Buffett, certainly isn’t.  Check out this video:

Buy Homes Now — Advice From One of America’s Richest Men

So, when you’re ready to get off your fence and follow Mr. Buffett’s advice, give Cooper Realty a call.  We have offices in Lewes – 302 644-2266, Seaford – 302 629-6693, and Georgetown – 302 856-6434, and we’re ready to help you find a property that is perfect for you!

Calling all Dessert Lovers to the 22nd Annual Rehoboth Beach Chocolate Festival!

So, head down to Rehoboth Beach this weekend and enjoy the sites, smells, and tastes of delicious chocolate creations! And who knows, maybe you’ll love Rehoboth Beach so much you’ll decide to stay. If that’s the case, give us a call at Cooper Realty Associates and let us help you find your new home – 302-629-6693!

Whether you live in Rehoboth Beach, visit occasionally, or have never been, if you love dessert this is definitely the weekend for you!  The 22nd Annual Chocolate Festival is happening at the Rehoboth Beach Convention Center this Saturday, March 3rd from 11:30am-3:30pm.  Admission is just $2, and kids under 5 get in free.  One free tasting is included with admission, but additional tastings are just 50 cents each.  What a deal for what are sure to be some of the most delicious confections you’ve ever tasted!

If you want to take things a step further and break out your best chocolate recipes, it’s not too late to enter.  You can download the official entry form here and bring it to the Convention Hall with your entry between 7am-8:30am on Saturday.  The whole family can get in on the action – there are categories for kids 12 and under too!

So, head down to Rehoboth Beach this weekend and enjoy the sites, smells, and tastes of delicious chocolate creations!  And who knows, maybe you’ll love Rehoboth Beach so much you’ll decide to stay.  If that’s the case, give us a call at Cooper Realty Associates and let us help you find your new home – 302-629-6693!