Thursday Three: 3 Great Coffee Tables For A Small Space

If you’ve got a small living room, consider your coffee table as an opportunity to maximize space. Here are three great choices for small spaces:

If you’ve got a small living room, consider your coffee table as an opportunity to maximize space.  Here are three great choices for small spaces:

1.  Think Clear.  An all glass or clear acrylic coffee table in an excellent choice for a small space because it “floats” in your space, allowing the eye to skim over without breaking anything up.  This will make your room look and feel larger and more open.

2.  Think Convertible.  Choose a table that will do double duty.  There are many coffee tables on the market that lift up or otherwise unfold into a full height table, allowing you flexibility, which is critical in a small space!  There are several of these style tables on the market, allowing choices for every style!

3.  Think Small.  Instead of a coffee table, consider several smaller tables that can be blocked together and taken apart.  Whether you use two tables next to each other, three in a row, or four grouped in a square or line, they can always be taken apart and spread throughout the room when extra space is needed.  Additionally, many tables that are sold for this purpose can also be stacked or used as extra bench seating, when the need arises.  It’s a win, win!

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

August 8, 2012

Today’s food for thought is from Ralph Waldo Emerson:  “Every artist was first an amateur.”  “The same thought pattern can be used in all occupations.”  Fred

Fred’s pick of the Day is MLS # 597562.  This unique home is actually a 19th Century Amish Barn brought from PA to Lewes, DE.  The 2100 sq. ft. 4 BR, 2BA home has 12’ ceilings with exposed beams, sitting areas, sun room and is energy efficient all for only $649,900.  Call me to see this home at 302 258-6983.

 

Weekend Update: August 10th-12th

There are a few great events going on this weekend. I hope you’ll check them out!

There are a few great events going on this weekend.  I hope you’ll check them out!

All Weekend: Big Thursday Festival in Millsboro
Millsboro’s annual Big Thursday Festival starts, of course, on Thursday, 8/9!  Thursday will be the President’s Auction at the Millsboro Fire Hall at 6pm.  Friday evening, 8/10 you can enjoy Elvins and The Mystery Train Band at Cupola Park at 5:30pm.  These events are followed up on Saturday August 11th with a full day of entertainment, food, vendors, and activities for the whole family.  Local favorites, The Funsters, will close out the festival on Saturday evening at 6pm.  For more information, contact the Millsboro Chamber of Commerce at 302-934-6777.

Saturday, August 11th: 39th Annual Outdoor Fine Art & Craft Show
The Rehoboth Art League (12 Dodds Lane) will host this long-time event that features over 100 artists and artisans exhibiting fine arts and fine crafts.  Food, music, and entertainment for children are also scheduled.  This event runs from 10am-5pm.  For more information contact the Rehoboth Art League.

Saturday, August 11th: Delaware Lighthouse Festival
Sponsored by the Delaware River & Bay Lighthouse Foundation, the first ever Delaware Lighthouse Festival will be held this Saturday at the Lewes Terminal of the Cape May-Lewes Ferry.  There will be tours of Delaware Breakwater East End Lighthouse as well as entertainment, food, family activities, canoe and kayak races, art, and more.  For those who are more interested in the history of lighthouses there will be lectures, experts, and talks with the descendants of local lighthouse keepers.  Parking and admission are both free!  For more information check out the event website.

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

August 7, 2012

Today’s food for thought is from Remy de Gourmont:  “The woman who loves smells good.”  “Ah, the French smell differently.” Fred

Fred’s pick of the day is MLS # 593318.  This 3 BR, 2 BA Class C home is in Country Glen, Bridgeville, DE.  The home has a master suite has a soaking tub, is on a 125’ x 125’ lot and has been reduced to $99,900.  Call me to see this move-in ready home at 302 258-6983.

 

Tips for Getting the Best Remodel Bid

Yesterday I wrote about tips for finding a contractor. Today, I am following up with tips for getting the best bid. When you’re planning an addition or remodel, knowing the average costs of the job you hope to do is helpful. One helpful guide for figuring average costs is to judge by the square footage of your space. Generally speaking, for a gut remodel,

Yesterday I wrote about tips for finding a contractor.  Today, I am following up with tips for getting the best bid.  When you’re planning an addition or remodel, knowing the average costs of the job you hope to do is helpful.  One helpful guide for figuring average costs is to judge by the square footage of your space.  Generally speaking, for a gut remodel, a kitchen remodel falls between $170-180 per square foot, a powder room averages around $130-140 per square foot, a full bathroom averages around $155-170 per square foot, and a family or living room runs about $85-$100 per square foot.  Once you factor the average range for your space, adjust for labor costs in your location (whether they are higher or lower than the average in the nation).  In the Sussex County area, increasing the general estimate by about 30-40% is probably a good average.  Once you’ve done that, you can adjust your estimated cost up or down based on the finishes you desire.  These averages assume mid-range fixtures, but if you’re going for upgrades such as granite countertops or stainless steel appliances in a kitchen or stone tile, heated floors, and soaking tubs in the bathroom, you need to raise your number again, by at least 30-50% depending on the number of upgrades you want.  Once you have a very general idea of the kind of estimate you are looking at, you can adjust your project to fit your budget (consider less updates or skip the gut remodel and replace or refinish what you’ve got instead!).  Then, go out there and get your (minimum of 3!) estimates.  Finally, be upfront with the contractors you choose about your bottom line and they will be able to help you get the most bang for your buck!

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

August 6, 2012

Today’s food for thought is from Robert Ingersoll:  “If I owe Smith ten dollars and God forgives me, that doesn’t pay Smith.”  “Your debts are yours and your soul is God’s, hopefully.”  Fred

Fred’s pick of the day is MLS # 593800.  This 3 BR, 2.5BA 2 story contemporary home is located in Long Neck Shores; Millsboro, DE has been reduced to $238,000.  The home has 2100 sq. ft. a first floor master, stone fireplace and a 2 car garage.  Call me @ 258-6983 to see this home.

 

Tips for Hiring a Contractor

If you’re thinking of building or remodeling and you need to hire a contractor, consider these tips from the Contractor State License Board (CSLB). The CSLB is a state organization in California that licenses and regulates the state’s construction industry and protects consumers. Although we are several time zones away from California, the suggestions they offer are an excellent take away for consumers in any state.

If you’re thinking of building or remodeling and you need to hire a contractor, consider these tips from the Contractor State License Board (CSLB).  The CSLB is a state organization in California that licenses and regulates the state’s construction industry and protects consumers.  Although we are several time zones away from California, the suggestions they offer are an excellent take away for consumers in any state.

  1. Hire only state-licensed contractors and check public records, the BBB, and state licensing organization to check that licenses are up to date and the contractors have a good reputation.
  2. Get bids from at least three licensed contractors before making a decision.
  3. Ask for several references from each contractor bidding and take the time to actually check them.
  4. Get everything in writing.  No detail is too small.  If you want to protect yourself, get it in a contract.  And then keep all relevant paperwork together in a file that is easily accessible.
  5. Ask to see copies of insurance documents or call the contractor’s insurance companies to make sure that their liability and worker’s comp coverages are up to date and adequate to cover your job.
  6. Don’t pay more than 10% as a down payment. (If 10% is less than $1,000, a down payment of $1,000 is acceptable.) And if you’re making progress payments throughout the job, whatever you do don’t let your payments get ahead of the job.
  7. Whatever you do, do not make your final payment until you 100% satisfied with the work, including any last minute touch-ups and the clean-up.

If you’re thinking of remodeling, keep these tips in mind!  If you’re thinking of buying or selling, give us a call at Cooper Realty Associates and put us to work for you – 302-629-6693.

Spotlight on Finbar’s Pub & Grill

Finbar’s is a classic Irish Pub known for its welcoming atmosphere. Located right on the Avenue (316 Rehoboth Ave.), Finbar’s is in the heart of it all! They serve a variety of meals, including steaks and fresh seafood. Most of their menu items utilize fresh, local produce and farm fare. Finbar’s also proudly supports local, sustainable farming and fishing practices.

Finbar’s is a classic Irish Pub known for its welcoming atmosphere.  Located right on the Avenue (316 Rehoboth Ave.), Finbar’s is in the heart of it all!  They serve a variety of meals, including steaks and fresh seafood.  Most of their menu items utilize fresh, local produce and farm fare.  Finbar’s also proudly supports local, sustainable farming and fishing practices.

The bar at Finbar’s is known for being welcoming, and with 28 beers on tap plus other extensive choices, it’s a good thing the bartenders have a reputation for being helpful!  Finbar’s is open year round and is even a great place to bring the family.  They have a nice children’s menu, and kids even get free ice cream for dessert!  So, if you’re looking to try some place new in Rehoboth, be sure to check out Finbar’s!

August 3, 2012.

Today’s food for thought is from Soren Kierkegaard:  “The function of prayer is not to influence God, but rather to change the nature of the one who prays.”  “The nature of prayer is personal to the person who prays (guidance or reinforcement come to mind.”  Fred

Fred’s pick of the day is MLS # 596321.  A large (4100 sq. ft.), Cape Cod home in White Owl Landing, Laurel, DE, has been reduced to $252,600.  This home built in 2000, has 3BR, 2.5BA, an open floor plan, gourmet kitchen and several large bonus-craft/game rooms.  Call me to see this home today at 301 258-6983.

 

5 Art Galleries To Check Out in Rehoboth

Some people do not realize what a prevalent art scene Rehoboth Beach has. There are way more than five at galleries to check out, but if you’ve never checked them out, here are five popular picks to get you started:

Some people do not realize what a prevalent art scene Rehoboth Beach has.  There are way more than five at galleries to check out, but if you’ve never checked them out, here are five popular picks to get you started:

1. Rehoboth Art League.  Located at 12 Dodds Lane in Henlopen Acres, the Rehoboth Art League is more than just a gallery.  They also hold events, classes, and competitions throughout the year.  You should definitely check it out!

2.  Aerie Art Gallery.  If modern art isn’t really your thing, check out this gallery, located at 45 Lake Ave.  Aerie Art features art work from the 1800s alongside modern, local art and gorgeous, custom furniture.

3.  Gallery 50.  This smaller gallery is located at 50-A Wilmington Ave. and features fine art and photography.  The artists represented at Gallery 50 are almost exclusively young, emerging artists.

4.  Philip Morton Gallery.  Located at 47 Baltimore Ave., this gallery offers unique art of all kinds and highlights a different artist every month.  This gallery was voted as best art gallery in Delaware Today’s “Best of Delaware” 2012 edition.

5.  Delaware Art Gallery.  Located at 239 Rehoboth Ave this gallery specializes in beautiful beach photography.  Definitely worth a look!

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

3 Ways To Improve Your Outdoor Space

With the weather being so great, have you been spending a lot of time outside? I know I have! If you have too and you’re just tired of the same old outdoor space, consider some of these quick tips to improve your deck, porch, or other outdoor space.

With the weather being so great, have you been spending a lot of time outside?  I know I have!  If you have too and you’re just tired of the same old outdoor space, consider some of these quick tips to improve your deck, porch, or other outdoor space.

1.  Container Gardens.  Gardens are always beautiful, but by utilizing containers to plant some beautiful and colorful flowers you can stager the height and really use your plants as décor.  If flowers aren’t your thing, certain veggies like tomatoes are great for container planting, and an herb garden is always an excellent choice!

2.  Pillows.  Pick up several beautiful, fun, fluffy pillows made from outdoor fabrics.  They’ll withstand sand and rain, are easy to clean, and will brighten up your seating in a jif!  Find some that appeal to your sense of style, or pick up a few bright prints to add a pop of color to your space.

3.  Rugs.  You can make your deck or porch seem much more like an outdoor room if you utilize a beautiful outdoor rug.  A rug will add a cozy feel to the space, help define the area, and add texture which is always a great styling tip.

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

Weekend Update: August 3rd-5th

Here are a few events going on in and around the area this weekend:

Here are a few events going on in and around the area this weekend:

Saturday, August 4th – Wyoming Peach Festival
If you’re up for a bit of a drive, head up to Wyoming, DE for the annual Wyoming Peach Festival.  This event takes place from 9am-3pm and includes crafters, live entertainment, food, orchard tours, and of course all things peach… peach ice cream, peach pie, peach nectar, and more!  Of course there are contests, and there’s even a special area just for kids!

Saturday, August 4th – 34th Annual Sandcastle Contest
The Rehoboth Beach-Dewey Beach Chamber of Commerce hosts this annual event on Fisherman’s Beach in Rehoboth (at the North end of the boardwalk, by Henlopen Hotel).  With over 100 teams and 800 participants, checking out these amazing sandcastles is a must-do!  The contest is open to both adults and kids and registration begins at 8:30am.  There are categories for Adults (15 & older), Children 7-14 and Children 6 and under.  Sculpting can begin anytime after registration and judging takes place at 3pm.  Winners will be announced around 5pm and prizes will be awarded.  In addition to formal judging, there will also be people’s choice awards.

Saturday, August 4th – 7th Annual Beach Ball
Dinner, dancing, and both live and silent auctions are part of this benefit for the Rehoboth Beach historical Society.  Tickets start at $100 for members at $125 for non-members and it’s a great, local cause!  The ball will be held at Kings Creek Country Club (1 Kings Creek Circle) in Rehoboth.

Do you know of other fun things happening in the area this weekend?  Comment and let me know!

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

August 1, 2012

Today’s food for thought is from Sun Tzu:  “The skillful employer of men will employ the wise man, the brave man, the covetous man and the stupid man.”  “Each of these men will contribute their virtues as required.”  Fred

 

Fred’s pick of the day is MLS # 595764.  This 4 BR, 2 BA rancher is in Little Acres, Laurel, DE and is now only $149,900.  The home has bamboo flooring and a 20’x20’ Pole building all on .84 acres.  Call me at 302 258-6983 to see this home.

 

Mistakes That Sellers Make (and how to fix them…)

If you’re thinking of putting your home on the market, there are several common seller pitfalls that you need to steer clear of. The first is pricing your home too high. No matter what you think your house is worth, you need to remember that you are emotionally attached to it in a way that a buyer won’t be. There are many ways to research home values, but remember your home is only worth what a buyer is willing to pay.

If you’re thinking of putting your home on the market, there are several common seller pitfalls that you need to steer clear of.  The first is pricing your home too high.  No matter what you think your house is worth, you need to remember that you are emotionally attached to it in a way that a buyer won’t be.  There are many ways to research home values, but remember your home is only worth what a buyer is willing to pay.  Many homes sit on the market for months, if not longer, because the sellers are holding out for the price they want rather than the one they are likely to get.  Second, avoid doing major renovation before selling.  Most renovation projects don’t bring any return on investment.  Small changes like a fresh coat of paint, updating cabinet and drawer hardware, updating light fixtures, and cleaning up your home’s curb appeal are more likely to make a big impact than a brand new kitchen or bathroom.  Lastly, many sellers hold off and wait until spring to list their homes for sale, but just because spring is historically the busiest time for real estate doesn’t mean that your home won’t sell if you list it at another time.  If you need to sell your home, do so, just be sure to showcase whatever features are most applicable to the given season.  For example, highlight your central air in the summer and your wood burning fireplace in the winter!  Of course, having the right team on your side can help your home sell even faster.  That’s why we’re here!  Give us a call at Cooper Realty Associates today and put us to work for you – 302-644-2266.

July 31, 2012

Today’s food for thought is from Stonewall Jackson:  “Those who have happy homes seldom turn out badly.”  “Happy homes are seldom heard from, they don’t make the headlines—it is a shame.”  Fred

 

Fred’s pick of the day is MLS # 597170.  This 3 story beach home in The Peninsula, Millsboro, DE has just been reduced to $959,000.  The home has 5 BR, 5 BA, 2 half baths, an elevator, high end finishes, and great views.  Call me to see this gem at 302 259-6983.

Tips for Pricing Your Home Right

If you’re looking to sell your home, setting the right price is probably something that you’ve thought a lot about. Of course, a good real estate agent will be able to help you with this (which is one reason you should call us!), but here are a few other tips while you consider the best price for your home.

If you’re looking to sell your home, setting the right price is probably something that you’ve thought a lot about.  Of course, a good real estate agent will be able to help you with this (which is one reason you should call us!), but here are a few other tips while you consider the best price for your home.  First of all, although it is important to know your competition, remember that current listings haven’t sold.  Your best bet for learning about successful pricing strategies is to check out recent past sales in your area and in homes similar to yours.  Sellers that aren’t in a rush to sell their homes often price higher than sellers who are looking to sell quickly.  Pricing high is not smart, especially in today’s market.  Sellers who price high often have to slash their price in a few weeks or months when their homes have sat with little to no interest.  This strategy leaves sellers chasing the market, which is never good.  Price your home right from the get-go.  Pricing your home low may even work out in your favor, if a bidding war ensues.  Again, consult your agent!  Finally, detaching yourself from your home emotionally will help you.  Think like a buyer, and talk with your agent about trends in the market.  Ask what buyers are looking for and consider your home.  All buyers are likely to find something wrong with your home, but the right price can compel them to overlook the downside and make an offer!

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

July 30, 2012

Today’s food for thought is from Sallust:  “Necessity makes even the timid brave.”  “I agree that in desperate situations most timid people will step up—but not all.”  Fred

Fred’s pick of the day is MLS # 597444.  This Town Home in The Woods of Pepper Creek in Dagsboro, DE is next to a park and is only $174,900.  The home has 3 BR, 2.5 BA, and a 1st floor master suite in 1677 sq. ft.  The condo fee is $1500.  Call me @ 302 258-6983 to see this Town Home.  Fred

July 28, 2012

Today’s food for thought is from Lydia Child:  “Belief in oneself is one of the most important bricks in building any successful venture.”  “Without self-confidence ventures are doomed or most likely never started.”  Fred

 

Fred’s pick of the day is MLS # 592270.  This is a 4 BR, 2 BA home with 1800 sq. ft. in Clearbrooke Estates in Seaford, DE, that has been reduced to $160,000.  At that piece it is a bargain.  Call me at 302 258-6983 to see this home today.  Fred

 

Spotlight on GreenMan Juice Bar and Bistro

Green Man Juice & Bistro is the only restaurant in Rehoboth Beach to offer a full-service juice and smoothie bar. The menu at GreenMan focuses on whole foods and is especially appealing to vegans and vegetarians, although there are plenty of delicious options for any diet! GreenMan is an especially appealing option for breakfast or brunch, which is served until noon daily. Homemade waffles with whipped cream and berries sound delicious to me, or better yet… crème brulee French toast… yum, yum!

Green Man Juice & Bistro is the only restaurant in Rehoboth Beach to offer a full-service juice and smoothie bar.  The menu at GreenMan focuses on whole foods and is especially appealing to vegans and vegetarians, although there are plenty of delicious options for any diet!  GreenMan is an especially appealing option for breakfast or brunch, which is served until noon daily.  Homemade waffles with whipped cream and berries sound delicious to me, or better yet… crème brulee French toast… yum, yum!

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

July 27, 2012

Today’s food for thought is from Samuel Rutherford:  “A beautiful woman must expect to be more accountable for her steps, than one less attractive.”  “It must be a bummer to be a beautiful woman” Fred

Fred’s pick of the Day is MLS # 595479.  Here is a foreclosure that has just been reduced from $118,000 to $89,000.  The home has 3 BR, 2 BA in 1560 sq. ft. on 2.8 acres with a 55’ x26’ pole building.  The property needs work but is a real bargain at this price.  Call me to see it at 302 258-6983.  Fred