Delaware Real Estate News

Tired of Ridiculously High Real Estate Taxes?

2011-09-16T07:12:00.000-07:00

Besides having some of the best real estate among the mid-Atlantic states, Delaware taxes are unbeatably low! If you are used to paying in the tens of thousands each year, think about what you could do with that money. In about 10 years, you could in many cases, actually pay for a home with what you would save on your current taxes. Besides having no sales taxes, Delaware has seriously low realty taxes. This is one of the biggest attractions for home downsizers, retiring home buyers, first-time buyers, and savvy investors. Check out the homes available, and give me a call today! Click here to kickstart your future: Find Me A Home!

Focus on Solutions!

2011-09-03T12:16:00.000-07:00

I just watched a short Keller Williams Realty vignette about remaining focused on solutions rather than expending energy on the roadblocks. A very insightful approach to both business and personal problems. I always remember my military days when I thought about complaining of a problem. If you know something is wrong, then you must also then know how it should be made right. If all we can do is complain without having an associated solution, then we are then part of the problem and that's the wrong side of the fence to be on.

Analysis Paralysis

2011-09-01T05:48:00.000-07:00

Sociologists call it Analysis Paralysis and to some degree, we all have experienced it. Analysis Paralysis is that instance whereby we research, discuss, think about, reconsider a course of action and then we start the mental process over and over again, but never take the step towards realizing our goal. A simple example might be the newest tech gadget. You are ready to purchase the newest iPhone only to discover a new version is on the horizon. Even though the current iPhone is exactly what you want, exactly what you need, your inability to commit, paralyzes you into inaction. We layman sometimes refer to this as 'a deer caught in headlights.'

As a home buyer, what keeps you from making that decision to buy? What are you analyzing to the point of making no decision? What is paralyzing you? You know what you are looking for- you know the location you want to live, you know the size of home you need, you know how much you can spend, but you take no action. The current interest rates are highly affordable, home prices are in your favor, but you don't take that next step. Many home buyers feel they would be making a mistake because right after they buy a home, they are afraid they will have missed 'The One.' The one home that would have made them truly happy, would have given them 100 percent peace of mind, the one home that would be forever maintenance free, would cost them two dollars less a month for electric. Some buyers want to analyze the market to the point of absurdity. They want to be sure they are not paying 3 cents more per square foot than the home that just sold down the block, they pick apart a home's characteristics such as a paint color, almost as if to intentionally sabotage their own goal. Even though they found their dream home, their Analysis Paralysis will keep them from reaching their goal.

What is your Analysis Paralysis?

Kent County Market Trend

2011-08-17T08:02:00.000-07:00

Kent County, July 2011

Market History

For Kent County, the Average Settled Price in July 2011 was $195,000. Related to that, 98 listings Settled in July 2011.

Single-Family July 2010 July 2011

Inventory 1,623 1,471

Settled Units 107 98

Median Price $197,000 $182,000

Stl Price/Orig Price 90.7% 93.3%

Single-Family YTD July 2010 July 2011

Settled Units 763 642

Average Price $200,000 $180,000

Median Price $195,000 $175,000

Stl Price/Orig Price 92.5% 91.1%

• Single-Family Year-to-Date Report

• Condo Year-to-Date Report Year-to-Date Market Snapshot

In July 2011, Kent County settled 642 units at an average price of $180,000.

Homes for Heroes

2011-08-06T09:52:00.000-07:00

"Thanks to all the help we received from our wonderful Realtor, Tom, and Homes for Heroes, we saved lots of money on buying our first home at age 60+. After years of dreaming of owning our own home, we were told about a program called Homes for Heroes.

Bob decided one day to call about the program and spoke to the best Realtor around. Tom told us of all the wonderful discounts which were available. To say the least, at our ages, we had no idea there were so many people willing to discount their services. It was a complete surprise after only a few weeks at looking at houses we had found the ONE. There was no extra paperwork or guidelines, this allowed for a very smooth process. After years of helping others, it's really nice to know people care. Thanks so much Home for Heroes!" Bob and Sharon Lord

With Good Thoughts

2011-07-31T11:18:00.000-07:00

Dear Tom,

"We both know that we were very fortunate to have you as our Realtor. We all went through a lot together but the trust you earned and professionalism you displayed made our home search a real joy. The friendship that we had was very special to us and hope that it continues in the future. Please feel free to use us as a reference whenever you need one. You will always be welcome at our house."

Looking forward to when we meet again.

Gratefully,

Brian and Linda Stewart

Google Can Be Your Personal Chamber of Commerce!

2011-06-28T18:21:00.000-07:00

Tap Into Google Local

Your Personal Chamber Of Commerce

The Internet has revolutionized the way we live in countless ways. We are able to access news as it's happening, email friends and relatives all over the world, and purchase anything from cars to vacation packages with a few clicks of the mouse.

What's ironic is that we frequently neglect to use this amazing resource when it comes to finding things in our local area. That's where Google™, the world's leading search engine, comes in. Google has produced a search tool, called Google Local, which you can use to locate anything from an Italian restaurant or golf course to a dentist or CPA, all within a few miles of your home!

To access Google Local, you may go there directly (www.local.google.com) or you can click on the "Local" link at the top of the page at www.google.com. Once there, specify what you are looking for and in which location. You can even select the search radius you prefer, at increments of 1 mile, 5 miles, 15 miles, or 45 miles.

One of the many benefits of this tool is that you receive a map with the locations of your search results available for viewing. Click on a map marker, and you can obtain driving directions right away. In addition to the item's address, phone number, and map, Google also provides relevant links and color-coded online reviews when they are available. (Red reviews are negative, green are positive, and yellow is neutral.)

Google Local is available free to local businesses, as opposed to yellow pages in the phone book which are updated annually and charge a fee. Next time you are searching for a local resource, give Google Local a try. You might be surprised to learn what is in your own backyard!

Google™ is a trademark of Google Inc.

Keller Williams Realty at the Beach Wishes You a Great Holiday!

2011-05-29T12:01:00.000-07:00

From the entire Keller Williams Realty at the Beach Team,

wishing you a safe and memorable holiday weekend!

Sussex County Real Estate Trending Upward

2011-04-30T19:05:00.000-07:00

As reported in the Cape Gazette on April 27, 2011

"Apr 27, 2011 Share Sales data released recently by the Sussex County Association of Realtors (SCAOR) reveals a clear and continuing improvement in southern Delaware’s real estate markets, further proof that the rebound from the recession, which gripped the region, and the country, is gaining momentum.

Single family home sales for the first three months of 2011 were up 11 percent over the same time a year ago, with the average home in the county selling for a median price of $304,406.

Nearly 500 homes were sold in Sussex County through the end of March, up from less than 435 during the first quarter of 2010. While that’s still a far cry from the near record levels the area experienced during the market’s peak a few years ago, the most recent data supports real estate’s continued recovery.

“We are obviously encouraged by this most recent data, which supports what we’re hearing from our members, who are all reporting renewed interest and busier schedules,” said Sandy Greene, 2011 president of SCAOR. “The data clearly shows that real estate here in Sussex County has been on the uptick for several quarters now, and we expect to see more of the same in the coming months.”

Traditionally, real estate sales in Sussex County have been the strongest in the spring and summer months, as the area’s coastal resorts come alive and residents and visitors again start flocking to the sandy shores of the Atlantic Ocean.

With the onset of the warm weather months comes a renewed interest in real estate, whether along the coast or further inland in one of the county’s central or western municipalities.

“We have a very unique market here in Sussex County, with the resorts to the east and an area much more based on agriculture to the west,” said Greene. “But we’re seeing improvement, albeit at different levels, throughout the county. We see this as an extremely positive forward indicator.”

While there are still many vacant storefronts and several challenges facing Sussex County’s commercial markets, that segment of the marketplace is also showing significant improvement in the new year.

Nearly three times as many commercial sales have take place in the first three months of 2011, compared to the same time a year ago, for a total dollar figure more than seven times that of 2010.

“While many companies are still choosing to build new structures rather than purchase and occupy existing ones, we’re extremely encouraged by these numbers in the commercial market,” said Greene. “I’m also hopeful that this trend will continue, as business owners discover all that Sussex County has to offer. Low taxes, a robust second homeowner market and a continuously growing population - why wouldn’t you want to do business here?”

Whether the commercial or the residential market, Sussex County is showing significant signs of recovery and stabilization, which are two very important factors for buyers moving forward.

There are still scores of good opportunities out there, however, as the county remains in a buyer’s market, and probably will for some time.

“Prices and interest rates are still low, and we still have an unusually large amount of inventory on the market,” said Greene. “With all of these factors, plus the return of warm weather, it’s a perfect time to get out there and shop around. The more time that passes, and the more the economy recovers, many of these opportunities will go away. If you’re interested in buying a home, now is the time.”

To read more about issues related to Sussex County’s real estate industry, visit SCAOR’s website at scaor.com."

Fed Rule Causing Wholesale Lenders to Exit to Retail

2011-04-12T05:19:00.000-07:00

Fed Rule Causing Wholesale Lenders to Exit to Retail

How's the Market in Sussex County?

2011-04-12T05:11:00.000-07:00

HOW’S BUSINESS?
LOCAL MARKET ACTIVITY REPORT 2011 First Quarter Housing STATS for Sussex County compiled from SCAOR MLS

REAL ESTATE SALES:
• Single Family:

The total number of closed listings as of March 31, 2011 was 474 homes totaling $144,288,555 in sales. The average sell price of a single family home was $304,406. Three bedroom home sales accounted for the largest segment with 263 sales compared to 80 for two bedroom and 131 for four bedroom homes. Sellers obtained 93% of the listed sell price and the average days on the market was 232 days. The average sell price for a two bedroom home is $ 178,869; three bedroom home is $225,103 and four bedroom home is $540,283.

The single family home sales show an improvement from the same time period in 2010. Last year, 434 homes were sold for an average sale price of $289,965 with total sales of $129,750,601. On the other hand, last year two bedroom homes sold for $223,716,; three bedroom homes sold for $260,108, and four bedroom homes sold for $430,701. The four bedroom home is the only home to see an increase in average sell price thus far in 2011.

The numbers indicate more sales and a higher average sell price year to date when comparing 2011 to 2010. This 11% gain is a positive message and supports the comments from members that they are busy and things are moving.

• Condo and Townhouse:

The total number of closed listings as of March 31, 2011 was 94 units totaling $28,399,805 in sales. The average sell price of a unit was $302,126. The list to sell percentage was 94% and the average days on the market was 316. Compared to 2010, this market has not shown improvement. In fact, fewer units have sold and the average sales price has declined. The 13% reduction in the number of units and the 6% decline in sales price indicate the market has not recovered in this area. Last year at this time, the sales were $34,671,726 and the average sales price was $321,035 with a total of 108 units being sold.

• Mobile home:

The total number of closed listings as of March 31, 2011 was 49 units totaling $ 2,118,480 in sales. The average mobile is selling for $43,234 which represents 85% of the list to sell price. The average days on the market has declined in this area from 256 days in 2010 to 229 in 2011. While the number of sales and days on market has improved, the average sale price has declined from $71,809 in 2010 to $43,234 thus far in 2011. This significant decline may be impacted by many variables such as if most sales are in lease hold situations.

• Lots and Land:

The total number of closed listings as of March 31, 2011 indicates 83 parcels totaling $11,595,750 in sales have occurred. The average selling price per parcel was $139,708. The list to sell percentage was lower than any other area at 82%. The average days on the market was 442 which increased from last year’s average of 362. Lots and Land have increased in the number of parcels sold from 76 in 2010, but this modest 9 % gain is offset by the lower average sale price average. During 2010, the average sale price for lots and land was $205,127 and has dropped 68%.

• Commercial:

Despite the vacant store fronts and commercial challenges, the market in Sussex is showing a slight rebound. The number of closed listings as of March 31, 2011 indicates 14 sales totaling $7,721,500 which is up from 5 sales totaling $1,092,000 last year. The days on market has seen a reduction from 348 to 317 and the list to sell percentage remains steady at 81%.

The total sales from the above property types are $198,118,011and is an increase of 8% from 2010 sales at 183,760,923.

All real estate is local and we know that the average sales price in Bethany is not the same as the average sales price in Seaford. We also know that our area is showing signs of recovery and stabilization which are two important factors for buyers.

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Americans Prefer Smart-Growth Communities
Americans favor walkable, mixed-use neighborhoods, with 56 percent of respondents preferring smart-growth neighborhoods over ones that require more driving between home, work and recreation, according to a new study. NAR’s Community Preference Survey also found that 77 percent of respondents said they would look for neighborhoods with abundant sidewalks and other pedestrian-friendly features, and 50 percent would like to see improvements to existing public transportation rather than initiatives to build new roads and developments.

Homes for Heroes in Delaware

2011-02-01T14:28:00.000-08:00

Hal Blades, Realtor, Keller Williams Realty Central Delaware, Dover- "I feel that I know a little bit about Heroes because in many ways I have always been surrounded by them. Before I was old enough to become a volunteer fireman I knew that I wanted to follow in my father's footsteps who was an active volunteer for over 60 years. I joined the Fire/EMS Service and worked along side him at the age of 16 and for most of the next 30 years. After college I worked in the hospital setting closely with another set of heroes before joining the Delaware State Police where I completed a 25 year career. During that time I also served on a local School Board with yet another type of hero. Different uniforms, but, the same ideals. I have always been willing to give to others and look forward to the Home For Heroes program to give back to those who deserve it the most."

Tom Schoenbeck, REALTOR, Keller Williams Realty at the Beach, Lewes Delaware- "As a retired Air Force senior enlisted member, I could not pass up this extraordinary opportunity to give back to those who continue to exemplify selfless service to our communities and our nation. Their selfless courage and often times, heroic acts, are truly deserving of what Home for Heroes is all about." Please visit our site at: http://www.delawareheroes.com/

Homes for Heroes

2011-01-25T08:54:00.000-08:00

As a retired Air Force senior enlisted member, I could not pass up this extraordinary opportunity to give back to those who continue to exemplify selfless service to our communities and our nation. Their selfless courage and often times, heroic acts, are truly deserving of what Home for Heroes is all about. When I grew up in Chicago in the 50's, I watched my father's strong work ethic all my life. His personal strength and commitment to family and community values is what I will always remember. It is his example I always try to emulate; his integrity as a professional and a true gentleman. When I was 14, my family moved to Phoenix Arizona and I entered the Air Force right out of high school. I retired at Dover Air Force Base in Delaware as a Senior Master Sergeant in 1996 after 20 years of honorable military service. Through my childhood and military career, I have visited or lived in 48 of the 50 states and visited several countries, including Iceland, Mexico, Canada, and the Bahamas. After teaching for a number of years, I decided to shift my professional life's focus and in 2006 I joined the Keller Williams Realty family. Besides being a Realtor, I try to give to my community when I can. I have been a Delaware Big Brother since the early 90's, I foster parented several children through Catholic Charities, and I currently give to my community through a local soup kitchen. I live by a simple life's rule; I will never seek to be superior to another, I will only seek to be superior to my former self. With that, I hope I will always be remembered as a gentle man, a good friend, an honest advocate, and a diligent worker. How may I serve you? Please visit my team at Homes for Heroes at: http://www.delawareheroes.com/. Or visit the national site at: http://www.homesforheroes.com/.

For Sale: 4BR/2+1BA Single Family House in Laurel, DE, $149,900

2010-12-15T16:17:00.000-08:00

For Sale: 4BR/2+1BA Single Family House in Laurel, DE, $149,900

Looking to Buy or Sell in Delaware?

2010-10-25T12:41:00.001-07:00

Delaware Bond Loans at 3.99%

2010-09-18T14:56:00.000-07:00

Delaware State Housing Authority recently announced rates of 3.99 percent interest on 30-year, fixed-rate, mortgages for first-time homebuyers.

Delaware Bond rates have not been this low in Delaware since 1979. This is a first-time buyers program, with zero points and can be used in combination with a second mortgage. The maximum home purchase can be as high as $378,000 as long as the borrower's income limit does not exceeed $89,470. All loans are on a first-come, first-served basis.

If you are interested, call DSHA at 302-739-4263. Don't wait, once the money is gone, it's gone!

Why Do I Need to Communicate?

2010-07-12T08:53:00.000-07:00

I often wonder how some professionals stay in business as long as they do. Often times when I am working with a client, the chief complaint I hear over and again, is the lack of communication with others. As a REALTOR, I've certainly experienced this myself and at the very least, it is frustrating. When a client does not receive the level of communication they feel is essential, they begin to close the gaps in their mind because of the lack of information. When a client asks their lender for example if there are any problems, and there is no communication back, the client begins to feel there is something amiss. When you repeatedly call another REALTOR in the attempt to garner information and they fail to respond in a timely fashion, you begin to feel as though you have no importance in that person's schedule. When e.mails go unanswered, you often wonder if they even received your note.

As a REALTOR, 80 percent of what we do is actual communication and the other 20 percent is the administrivia behind the curtains. Do some business people even know the amount of lost business due to their own lack of communication? My number one goal in business is to maintain contact. Not only to get business, but more importantly- to keep it. Never underestimate the importance of keeping in touch. Clients would rather you tell them directly what the problems are, where the pitfalls lay, what they should expect, and how the process works, rather than keeping them in the dark. If a client feels they are getting too much information, they'll let you know.

As REALTORS in this modern age of communication, there are so many avenues to keep in touch, that it is un-excusable for failing to do so. A client really needs to feel as if they are the only client you have. Of course you know you have a 100 clients, but never let your client know that.

There will always be those clients that no matter how often you update them, how quickly you respond, how detailed you are, it will never be enough, but this is probably more often the exception than the rule. When a deal goes south and you start to replay the whole scenario in your mind (and you will) think about how it may have changed had you been more communicative.

Keller Williams Realty Refurbishes the Lewes DE Little League Park

2010-07-07T16:43:00.000-07:00

Another great project by the Keller Williams Realty at the Beach Team. We all got together on RED Day and helped refurbish the Lewes Little League Field. We had a great day. It was warm, but not too bad and the kids and families really loved the work we did for them. Yup, that's me bending over the plantings. (I think I was looking for bugs!)

May 13, 2010 was Keller Williams RED Day. An annual celebration of Renewing, Energizing, and Donating our time to you!

Here is a couple of hard working guys repairing one of the dozen picnic tables. The league sent us a kind thank you note a few days ago, and they were going to send their tables to the dump and buy new ones. After the repairs were done, they were all high pressure washed and they looked brand new! We are very proud of our team and glad to help revitalize our communities.

Habitat for Humanity in Georgetown Delaware

2010-06-24T11:25:00.000-07:00

What an amazing day! We helped frame an area home for a most deserving family! Habitat for Humanity in Delaware is such an exceptional program.

This is the fantastic crew from Keller Williams Realty at the Beach in Lewes Delaware. Yes, I'm the oddball on the far right without the matching t-shirt. My mom always said I always march to my own drumbeat!

I had never participated in such an endeavor, but I can tell you, it was an experience I won't forget. It was in the 90's with high humidity, but worth every drop of sweat. It was fantastic and I love my teammates. They are the best ever!

The Destruction of Our Gulf

2010-06-19T14:07:00.000-07:00

While I am not a political animal and more oft than not prefer to keep my political views to myself, I am so outraged with what is happening in the gulf, I cannot keep it to myself. The obliteration of the entire gulf coastal region is beyond a catastrophe, it is cataclysmic in scope. This man-made disaster will undoubtedly bring about a fundamental shift in the environment that cannot in the foreseeable future be redeemed to any pre-disaster level. The human and socio-economic factors involved will be incalculable and no doubt will run inter-generational in effect and duration. This is not and cannot be equated to the destruction caused by a natural disaster in that it continues to devastate minute by minute with no end in sight. Not to trivialize or minimize the damage and loss caused by nature such as hurricane Katrina, this disaster's effects are exponential in growth with no relief and no apparent plan of action to end the constant spew of crude pouring into the ocean at an unprecedented rate.

The most egregious aspect of this entire ordeal, is that it is a man-made situation brought about by unfettered greed and despicable disregard for all that is humanly ethical and right. There can be no other explanation for the unconscionable actions before the disaster ensued, nor for the lackadaisical behavior since. The miserable corporate attitude of every person with their oil stained hand in the pocket of British Petroleum and the entire oil industry, seeking to eek out every last penny of blood money, is nothing short of disgusting. The sheer magnitude of corporate greed has nothing to compare itself to in the annals of human history and will surely, and justly, be the ultimate demise of those who have lived off the fatted calf with free and unmolested restraint.

The dead-soul expressions of the executives in charge and the outright flaunting of their own largess, and the obvious attempts to hide the magnitute of this catastrophe, coupled with their constant lying, is putrid at best. This nation must now endure a most horrific environmental disaster, either by design or through intentional negligence, and we must now face what will assuredly be a life altering event. The test of our mettle will not come with how we clear this seemingly insurmountable hurdle, but will come with how we face the corporate enemy down and force them to their knees, make them beg for our forgiveness, and drain their pockets so dry they will walk away with only lint in their pockets.

If you unwittingly feel this disaster has no effect on you, remember the immortal words of John Donne, often read in Earnest Hemmingway's book, For Whom the Bell Tolls: "No man is an island, entire of itself; every man is a piece of the continent, a part of the main. If a clod be washed away by the sea, Europe is the less, as well as if a promontory were, as well as if a manor of thy friend's or of thine own were. Any man's death diminishes me, because I am involved in mankind; and therefore never send to know for whom the bell tolls; it tolls for thee..."

Solar Energy Park in Dover Delaware!

2010-06-15T16:46:00.000-07:00

Holy Cow Batman! Delaware is breaking the bank with alternate energy resources. First the wind turbine in Lewes Delaware on the UD campus with a planned turbine farm in Rehoboth Beach in 2012 and now... ta da- Dover signed purchase agreements to pave the way for construction to begin on one of the mid-Atlantic region's largest solar energy power plants. Construction on the 10-megawatt Dover SUN Park will begin later this year on 103 acres owned by the city of Dover off White Oak Road. Dover officials said today that the city has signed a 20-year agreement to purchase all of the energy produced at the facility, which will supply more than two percent of the city's current energy requirements, or enough to power about 1,300 homes. Delmarva Power and a group of nine municipally owned utilities have signed agreements with the park's owner, White Oak Solar Energy LLC, for the purchase of renewable energy credits. We are stepping out with POWER! As Tim Taylor the tool-guy would say... Ugh ugh ugh, MORE POWER!

Wind Power at UD in Lewes Delaware!

2010-06-15T14:24:00.000-07:00

Gamesa Corporation is the University of Delaware's partner in Lewes Delaware in a $5 million wind turbine project. The company manufactured and installed the 2-megawatt wind turbine, which is capable of providing electricity for the entire campus. Patrick Harker, University of Delaware (UD) President said the college embraced this project and said Delaware has become a hub for groundbreaking environmental science, progressive policies and productive collaborative efforts. Dean of the university's College of Ocean, Earth, and Environment, Nancy Targett, said “This day was just awesome. It brought together all of the partners to celebrate the accomplishment here and to take a forward look at what we might be doing in the future,”

Harker thanked Targett for her leadership in UD’s wind-power effort, and professors Jeremy Firestone and Willett Kempton, advocates of the coastal wind turbine on the Hugh R. Sharp Campus. Senator Tom Carper said UD’s wind turbine is the first of its kind on the coast and will provide information for those working on a network of similar devices that would be built along the coast from Maine to North Carolina.

“The first offshore deployment of windmills, we hope, will be off the coast of Rehoboth Beach in 2012,” Carper said. He said he wants to ensure a federal tax policy is in place that would give companies an incentive to build.

Once again, while we are far behind European nations in adopting alternate power sources such as wind turbine power, we are moving forward in a positive fashion with sustainable power. Another reason Delaware is number one!

Rehoboth Beach Country Club- an Audobon Sanctuary

2010-01-23T10:24:00.000-08:00

The Rehoboth Beach Country Club golf course has retained its designation as a certified Audubon cooperative sanctuary through the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses, an Audubon International program. Rehoboth Beach Country Club is one of only 798 courses in the world to receive the honor.

The program, endorsed by the U.S. Golf Association, provides information and guidance to help golf courses preserve and enhance wildlife habitat and protect natural resources. In order to achieve this status, a course must demonstrate that it's maintaining a high degree of environmental quality in a number of areas such as environmental planning, wildlife and habitat management, education, chemical use reduction and safety, water conservation and water quality management.

Way to go Rehoboth. We are very proud of your accomplishment!

Indie Film in Rehoboth Beach Delaware

2010-01-06T05:14:00.000-08:00

Various Sussex County Delaware locations were the scenes of the new Indie film, Drift. Finbar’s Pub and Grill in Rehoboth Beach became a movie set. Actress Greta Gerwig, slid into a booth next to actor, Olly Alexander, dolled up in a long, fuchsia dress.

Drift is an independent film about infidelity and self-discovery set in the Cape Region. The scene at Finbars is when Rose, played by Greta Gerwig, is trying to relive what her husband did in an attempt for her to take control of what happened.

The movie, finished in mid December, was also filmed at Dogfish Head Brewery in Milton, Fisherman’s Wharf in Lewes, and along Rehoboth Avenue as well as at Broadkill Beach. The production crew lived and worked from a rented home on New Castle Street in Rehoboth.

Director, Allison Bagnew, who also wrote the screenplay for "Buffalo 66," said she knew of the Cape Henlopen region from her friend, Lewes resident, Darree Palmer. “I wanted a seaside town in the winter,” she said, “a place that was going to feel kind of emptied-out. There’s something very evocative about a beach town in the winter – it’s very lonely.”

So, if you're an Indie film fan, this might be worth while. Even if you're not, if you are from Delaware, you'll want to see this just to see your hometown on the silver screen.

Kent County Delaware Market Watch

2010-01-02T10:32:00.000-08:00

According to TREND, the tri-state MLS system, the pendulum swing from the buyer's to the seller's is showing a more concrete shift. As previously reported here, in September, the average sale price was $196,200 with 126 homes sold. October edged up slightly to an average of $208,600 with 123 homes sold. A slight and expected dip in November's average was $195,266 reflecting 133 homes being sold, but then December, the historically lower month of home sales, rebounded to an average home sales price of $210,663, even though only 74 homes sold. This end-of-year sales from the quarter's beginning, shows a 7 percent sales price increase, while at the same time, a 42% decrease in the actual number of homes being sold. The Nov/Dec days on the market held a predictable and respectable number of days; 108 for November and 135 in December for an average of 118 days.

Kia Massage Gives Back to the Local Lewes Delaware Community

2009-12-30T15:56:00.000-08:00

The Lewes Delaware Fire Department can thank Kari Ainsworth of Kia Massage for giving of her services. Kari has been giving the well-deserved volunteer fire fighters a 10-minute chair massage. She has been doing this every other month for the past several months.

Ms. Ainsworth told the Cape Gazette, “I have a line of individuals anxiously awaiting massages every time I volunteer my services. The support from the Lewes Fire Department has been great and I am happy to help a group that does so much for the safety of our local community.”

What a great business person Kari is and what a great service she is providing!

Tanger Outlets in Rehoboth Beach

2009-12-27T16:41:00.001-08:00

Tanger Outlet Center in Rehoboth Beach Delaware awarded over $90,000 to the Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition. The donation is part of Tanger’s annual breast cancer awareness campaign. Tanger’s 2009 campaign to battle breast cancer funds were raised through the sale of the Tanger pink card.

For a buck donation to fight breast cancer, customers received a special pink discount card that gave them 25 percent savings at participating Tanger stores. The program is now in its fourth successful year at Tanger Outlet Centers nationwide.

Nationally, Tanger Centers have raised and donated $7.5 million to the cause since 1994. Funds raised by Tanger are donated to more than 20 different breast cancer organizations through the Stanley K. Tanger Breast Cancer Fund.

With its primary mission to help save lives, Tanger’s annual breast cancer awareness campaign helps raise the money necessary to support ongoing breast cancer research. Tanger’s campaign also helps fund many important programs and facilities designed to improve the quality of life for breast cancer patients and creates awareness among Tanger shoppers for the importance of early detection.

Take the Plunge in Delaware

2009-12-26T19:36:00.000-08:00

The 2010 Polar bear Plunge is a month away! Put your game face on and come out sporting your best summer duds and take the plunge. Brrrrr! The 19th annual Atlantic Ocean, Rehoboth Beach Delaware plunge is scheduled for Feb 7th at 1:00 p.m., snow or shine. Are you brave enough? The event is for the benefit of the Delaware Special Olympics. Funds are raised through individual fund raising and Polar Bear team fund raising. There are over 3000 Special Olympiads that are the benficiaries of the the annual winter event. What a great cause and what a great event!

Keller Williams Realty Takes the Lead!

2009-12-23T06:18:00.000-08:00

Why Being a For Sale by Owner May Not be in Your Best Interest

2009-12-21T09:40:00.000-08:00

1. Saving the Commission. Often times the principal reason homeowners make is that they can save the commission by selling their own home by themselves. Experience proves this is not usually the case. Buyers today are very savvy. They feel, whether it is true in particular instances or not, that owners overprice their homes and what the owner expects to get for their home is inflated by the amount of the commission in order to cover the cost of advertising and other expenses required in the sale of their home.

2. Qualifying Inexperience. The owner, unless a former REALTOR, has had neither the training nor experience in qualifying buyers from all aspects, including knowing the financial ability of the purchaser to buy a home. Thus, prospects are lost through poor qualifying, or as in many cases, is not only lost but a great amount of valuable time and often expense associated with the necessity of starting over with a new buyer.

3. Get Lookers. Homeowner ads bring a great many lookers who are not really qualified to buy, wasting homeowner's time and perhaps losing a real prospect. Brokers bring people to inspect homes who are qualified financially to buy and who are interested in a specific home and location.

4. Difficulty in Purchaser Negotiations. Owners inexperienced in real estate transactions can and frequently do encounter difficulties in negotiating concessions, price, repairs, and other matters, which may lose a qualified prospect. The broker, as the professional go-between, is in far better position to handle negotiations that will lead to a sale.

5. Prospects Hidden Objections. Prospects often find it reluctant to bring out and discuss objections with the owner because of the personal element involved. They do not want to put the seller in the position of defending their own home. Thus, and owner can't represent themself properly with many prospects because the owner does not know the prospect has unrevealed objections.

6. Inexperience in Handling Objections. Techniques for handling objections professionally and effectively are the most difficult of all techniques to master in selling. Almost never does a homeowner have any such training or experience. Thus, when major objections are raised, which the professional REALTOR can handle, the inexperienced owner does not know how to properly proceed. The possible sale is lost. In addition to objections on price, buyers are certain to raise as many objections as they can on other points, putting the owner at a serious disadvantage in trying to sell their own home.

7. The Urgency of the Situation. When the time in which a home must be sold is limited, it is very unwise for an owner to take any of that time to try and sell their home themselves. When they fail, which is often the case, a broker finally selected often times does not have enough time to market the home properly to get it sold (depending on the market) before the owner moves out to leave the home vacant. A vacant home, even when redecorated, usually is more difficult to sell than one being lived in.

8. Problems with Financing. Even though a buyer secures their own financing for the purchase of a home, many homeowners when presented with an offer, do not know what a good loan to value ratio is, nor do they recognize poor earnest money offers, or unacceptably low down payments. Often a home sale is lost due to poor financing in which the seller has unwittingly accepted.

9. Lack of Prospect Sources. It is a truism in real estate selling that the more exposure a home has to qualified buyers, the more likely there will be a quicker and more favorable sale. Most sellers are limited in their sources for prospects, friends and neighbors, organization bulletin boards, and some owner advertising. On the other hand, the professional broker has a large and constantly renewing flow of prospects from which to pre-select qualified buyers for the owner's home.

10. Lack of Advertising Exposure. The owner is advertising one home; their own. The broker on the other hand is advertising many homes by comparison. It is frequent that a buyer will call a broker about one ad, only to buy a home other than the one they originally called about. Thus, through successful advertising, the broker provides many possibilities for qualified prospects.

11. Lack of Follow-up System. Homes are frequently sold on the second or subsequent visits which have been brought about by a REALTOR. The broker has a follow-up system on all prospects that haven't yet purchased a home. Usually the broker's representative accompanies prospects on inspections of other homes and when the situation is logical, brings the prospect back to homes they have previously toured for comparison. The owner can take none of these steps with only one home (their own) to sell. Often, visitors to a For Sale by Owner open house, will not provide their contact information, not even their true name, so the owner is unable to follow up with them. Again, the owner is at a distinctive disadvantage.

12. If Purchaser Has a Home of Their Own to Sell. A prospect may desire to purchase a home, but must sell their own home before they can buy. In this situation, unless the seller is a seasoned REALTOR themselves, is virtually helpless. Most homeowners would not know how to handle an offer with a must-sell contingency. A REALTOR knows how to handle these types of transactions.

13. Owner Expense. The owner may incur considerable expense in succeeding in selling their home at a somewhat reduced price. Such expenses can include newspaper advertising, cost of internet advertising, staging costs, home advertisement such as signs and brochures, legal fees, etc. When the amount of the price reduction and the expenses are added up, the owner has netted little if anything over what they would have received from a broker sale. When the seller fails to make a sale, these costs are pure costs and do not get recouped. The broker on the other hand, as part of their services, assumes all expenses for advertisement.

14. Lack of Home Selling Experience. Home buyers today are usually very tenacious shoppers, which means they want to see several homes for comparison in making a decision. Here, the owner is again at a great disadvantage. Home selling has become a profession requiring a high degree of skill and experience. The owner, without previous experience, does not know how to show a home professionally, does not know how to present benefits, and does not know how to use closing techniques that bring results. Thus visitors, whom the professional Realtor could turn into a buyer, are lost by the owner. And more time passes without the home being sold making it less attractive.

15. Buyer's Reluctance on Inspection Details. Related to the home showing are several details which may not seem at first to be of great importance, but often are. Many buyers when they are going through a home with an owner, are reluctant, or will not, open cupboards, closets, medicine cabinets, etc., because they feel this would be an intrusion on the owner's privacy. This feeling does not exist with the Realtor. Additionally, buyers are most likely not going to make comments about the home or question the seller out of fear of putting the home owner on the defensive. A Realtor is an unattached party with no emotional stake in the home.

16. Don't Know How to Justify the Asking Price. Most prospects do not make home buying decisions until they feel the selling price is right and well justified. Rarely does an owner have a record of sales of closed comparable homes in the general area as partial justification for their price. Nor does the homeowner know how to build a fact portfolio to include features, the area, or possible future developments that will result in good appreciation value, which has significant impact on the asking price.

17. Underpricing Danger. Owners are not familiar with the often rapidly changing market conditions, and the characteristics of supply and demand for a particular type of home, in specific locations, as is the experienced Realtor. As a result of lack of knowledge, owners often under-price their home, and by the time all "cost saving" expenses are paid, considerably less is netted than if the sale were handled through a broker.

18. Not a Home Problem. Rarely can the homeowner be at home virtually all of the time to receive visitors. When the prospective buyer finds nobody home they often go on to look at other homes and do not return. A Realtor, with secured access, is available to show your home virtually anytime, except during the hours the seller might exclude for personal reasons. When a prospect drives by and see a property they like, they simply take the address and make the call to their Realtor to arrange for a showing.

19. Any Strangers have Access to Your Home. The For Sale by Owner sign in the yard is an invitation to anyone to ask to see your home. While such occurrences may be infrequent, it has happened, and can happen, that undesirable strangers gain access to your home. There also have been instances when thieves have posed as prospective buyers to learn what might be of value in your home which they can steal when no one is home. If the sign is posted only when you are home and then removed in your absence, this means prospects may drive past your home and not realize your home is for sale. On the other hand, a Realtor pre-selects those who will be shown the home, making as certain as possible that only legitimate buyers tour your home.

20. Problem of 'Outside (window shopper) Lookers'. Some potentially good prospects for a home will drive by, see the For Sale by Owner sign, but for some reason not be impressed with the exterior appearance or nature of the property. Yet the interior of the home and its features may be exactly what the prospective buyer was looking for. The interior benefits of your home may considerably outweigh the exterior first impressions. So, the prospect drives on and the sale is lost. With a broker's sign in the yard, there is a significant increased odds the drive-bys would call the broker about the home, thus learning that the entire home package is just what they are looking for.

21. Lack of Future Interest. Many buyers often feel the owner has no future interest in them once the sale is complete, whereas the Realtor does. The owner sells, moves away, and no local or personal contact information is provided in the event a future problem arises that was not evident at the time of the purchase. The buyer knows the Realtor has future interest in them as a satisfied client, as a source of referrals, and in the event the buyer then needs to sell themselves and has to move in the future. The prospective buyer accepts far more readily the representations of the Realtor than a homeowner who has personal stake in selling the home. With some buyers, this knowledge or supposition of a lack of future interest deters the buyer from negotiating directly with an owner.

22. "Grain of Salt" Problem". Many buyers feel sellers are not objective about the sale of their home and are emotionally attached, whereas Realtors are not. Emotional involvement means the owner sees everything about the home in a more favorable light than what might be objectively justified. As the old adage goes, "Take what they say with a grain of salt." Sellers tend to see the home in the light of what the home meant to them and not from the perspective of the buyer. The sellers have gotten used to things that a buyer would not like. They are emotionally involved and cannot see their own home from the buyer's point of view.

23. The Settlement Problem. Once a contract is signed by the seller and buyer, a complicated and highly detailed process starts which leads to the settlement when the owner gets his payment for his home and the new owner takes possession of the home. The process involves loan processing, in which 'snags' or more serious complications arise; the legal aspects of title and deeds, overcoming possible easement situations, rights of way, and dozen of other factors involved in the final transfer of the property. These and other matters must be coordinated on a time schedule that will ensure completion of various steps in time for the established settlement date. The purchaser must be advised on everything they must do and it must be assured they do everything required in the established time frames. When concessions are involved and the owner must fulfill certain conditions before settlement, there is no one to guide the sellers about these matters. Rarely, by experience or competence can a seller make sure everything is accomplished, in the time schedule, including preparation for escrow with an attorney.

24. Market Age Problem. When the owner fails to sell their home themself as a consequence of many of the factors listed in this series, and the home is on the market for a fairly long period of time, it acquires market age. Market age is a deterrent to later selling at the proper market price. Buyers often inquire "How long has this home been on the market?" If for any length of time, after the exposure it may have had when advertised, buyers tend to think there must be something wrong with the home or it would have sold. Thus, they become more objective and skeptical, and less likely to make an offer.

Dover Delaware Set for Holidays!

2009-12-11T10:32:00.000-08:00

Dover Delaware will showcase its annual Holiday Parade on Saturday, Dec. 12. Loockerman Street will be closed from 9:30 a.m. until 5 p.m. During this time, DART Bus Route109 will be on detour. Signs will be posted at all affected bus stops to direct customers to the nearest stop.

And, on Dec 15th, Dover High School will have its Winter Concert, beginning 6:30 p.m. The concert will be held at Delaware State University in the Education and Humanities Building. Performances will be by the concert band, jazz band, symphonic band, chorus and orchestra. This is a free concert and everyone is welcome to attend.

Don't miss these terrific holiday events!

Fanny's First Look Option

2009-12-11T06:32:00.000-08:00

A program announced by Fannie Mae gives a first-look option for homes in its REO inventory of 70,000 homes to owner-occupant buyers and public entities. During the first 15 days a property is listed for sale, purchases are limited to buyers who intend to occupy the home and public entities. Fannie will waive the earnest money requirement for public entities, and lower it for households that have qualified to use public funds for the purchase. Buyers get 45 days to close, 15 days longer than usual. Fannie Mae does not reduce commissions related to the sale of its REO properties. Investor offers will only be considered after the initial 15 day period. For more info contact Jeff Lischer at NAR, 202-383-1117.

Go Green and Buy Delaware

2009-12-09T05:39:00.000-08:00

Delaware has such rich resources, Delawareans are encouraged to purchase locally and support home grown goods. This is a great time of year to support your local agricultural farmers and other goods producing industries.

Buying local not only helps create jobs in Delaware, but helps save fuel by not having to transport goods from other states and locales.

Shop Delaware stores, food markets and other markets for:

• Frozen and canned vegetables from The PictSweet Company, Hanover Food Corporation, J. G. Townsends Inc. and Vlasic Pickles, all of which contract with local farmers and provide processing jobs for Delawareans

• Quality poultry from Allen Family Foods Inc., Mountaire Farms, and Perdue Farms that provide jobs for Delawareans who process poultry grown by Delaware/Delmarva poultry growers

• Delaware’s famous scrapples and sausages from Rapa in Bridgeville, Kirby and Holloway in Harrington, and Hughes, and Haass, both of Dover.

• Local fresh greens, sweet potatoes, herbs, apples, ciders, pumpkins

• Local wines, beers, ales and other spirits from Nassau Valley Vineyards in Lewes, Pizzadili Winery in Felton, Dogfish Head Craft Brewery in Milton and other local breweries as they list.

Check the Delaware Department of Agriculture’s Food Trader and Ag Trader websites frequently for other available products as the season progresses

Delaware Families to Get a Boost for their Roost

2009-12-08T15:39:00.000-08:00

The Delaware Community Development Block Grant Program through the Department of Housing and Urban Development will soon be reviewing applications from low-income homeowners who have problems with their aging homes. Residents in Milton Delaware will soon be able to apply for assistance to repair roofs, poorly insulated windows, aging porches, and other home problems.

The Delaware State Housing Authority oversees the federal program which provides money to residents who are retired and on fixed incomes that do not have the financial resources to repair their homes. The aim of the program is to keep homes livable and to prevent the decline of housing values. Although rental properties do not qualify, manufactured homes do as well as single family dwellings. Delaware received $2 million last year and the state is expected to receive the same funds this year and should help about 100 homeowners in Kent and Sussex Counties.

Assistant Director of the county's Community Development and Housing Division, Brad Whaley, said there are 21 families on the waiting list in Milton alone. All applications are collected and in April the grants are awarded. Another reason Delaware is the First State!

Warming the Heart in Delaware

2009-12-07T19:08:00.000-08:00

What a great way to give back to the community. Wilmington Delaware contractor, Horizon Services, has a program, Warm the Heart. Co-owner, Mark Aitken, started the program 4 years ago as a service to serve the needy in the New Castle Delaware area. Horizon Services in partnership with Delmarva Power and the Lennox Company installs new heating systems and repairs and upgrades older systems, free of charge for those most in need. There are about 50 clients at this time and the program is now expanding to Kent and Sussex Counties and 14 families will have new furnaces installed before the winter is out.

After Mark and his crew saw seniors leaving oven doors open to provide heat, they saw the need first-hand to expand their program. “We decided to dig even deeper into our pockets this year to extend the program statewide.” he said.

Beginning the first of this month, Warm the Heart application forms have been placed at community centers, libraries, public buildings and nonprofit organization offices in all three counties. A committee of community representatives will review the applications in January and select the families that will receive new furnaces or have their systems repaired.

"This is not a government program, this is not something set up by nonprofits, this is a business.” Delaware Governor, Jack Markell, said. “Delaware is a state of neighbors and we come together to help each other.”

What a terrific way to give back to the community. This is truly in the spirit of giving.

Prime Hook Delaware's Bird Watching is On-Point

2009-12-07T13:55:00.000-08:00

Delaware's Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge has it's winter bird watching field trips scheduled. The refuge has such an excellent habitat, a large number of species find their way on a seasonal basis. The planned trips are Dec 16th, Jan 10th, Feb 14th, and Mar 10th. Some observers over the years have seen as many as 200 species of our winged friends. The field trips are three hours in length and begin at 8 a.m. at the Refuge Headquarters off Route 16. This is a rain or shine event, so dress warmly. What a terrific way to spend a morning and this can be an exceptional educational opportunity for the kids. For more information, call 302-684-8419.

Georgetown Delaware to Benefit From Solar Energy

2009-12-02T15:46:00.000-08:00

The Nov 10th Sussex County Council meeting accepted a consultant’s recommendation to use a federal grant of $648,000 to install over 400 solar panels for Sussex County's Emergency Operations Center (EOC). The panels will draw on sunlight and convert the energy into electricity. The power produced will help power the 911 center and the residual power can be sold back to the local electrical grid.

This project will result in an annual electric cost savings to the county of more than $12,000. It is expected to generate $30,000 annually in new revenue and will receive a one-time state rebate of more than $200,000 for adopting the technology. Sussex County stands to earn as much as $1.3 million in revenue over the next 25 years by using the grant for solar technology.

The initial grant of $40,000 came from the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act.

The county selected Harbeson Delaware's Flexera Inc. to develop the project strategy. Over 400 solar panels will be installed next to the EOC which is the most energy efficient facility in the county. The facility is a 1-year old county building and was one of eight studied.

The solar panels will produce over 120,000 kilowatts of electricity and will cut about $12,000 off the EOC's annual bill of $86,000. As an added bonus, the project will qualify for another $211,000 in rebates from the state of Delaware. With County Council’s endorsement of the proposal, the strategy now will be submitted to the U.S. Department of Energy for review later this month. If approved, the federal government will release the $648,000 grant to the county to implement the strategy.

Dover Delaware's Decades Long Festival of Lights

2009-12-01T14:33:00.000-08:00

Tonight, Dec 1st at 6:00 p.m., Dover Delaware will once again officially open the Christmas Season with the traditional lighting of the City's Tree. The annual event will be held in front of City Hall on The Plaza. Dover City Mayor, Carleton Carey, will be on hand to kick off the festivities.

On Dec 5th, the city's Festival of Lights will be highlighted by the appearance of jolly St. Nick who will be listening to young boy's and girl's wish lists on the corner of Bradford and Loockerman Streets. Downtown Dover is lit from one end of Loockerman Street to the other, using about 30,000 lights! Every tree is decorated with festive lights and the lamp posts are adorned with wreathes and bows. Local merchants add to the scene by decorating their storefonts. To see the downtown section at night is especially beautiful. It brings a very calming effect to the troubled soul. When there is a crisp, clean, blanket of snow on the ground, it enhances the beauty and brings out the inner child in all of us.

Frederica Delaware Overpass Construction to Begin

2009-11-28T15:32:00.000-08:00

DelDOT begins construction Nov 30th, on the North Frederica Grade Separated Intersection, a project that includes construction of an overpass over Route 1. The project will consist of all erosion control work; relocating the sewer lines, construction of the bridge, ramps, and acceleration and deceleration lanes adjacent to Route 1 on the northbound side; reconstruction of Route 12/Frederica Road; and the milling and paving of Route 1. The project will cost approximately $6.9 million, and will take about 13 months to complete, depending on weather. This is the next phase of creating an extended Route 1 after the recently completed Rt 9 overpass.

A REALTORS Prayer

2009-11-20T15:13:00.001-08:00

May I always use my hands as Your gifts to serve my clients in need. May I use the mind that You bestowed on me to always keep my client's best interest at heart. May I use the talents You provided me to be creative in serving other's needs. May I use my eyesight, my windows to this created world, to see every client as an equal. May I use my tongue in the manner of speech as if I were speaking to You. May I use my ears to listen and not just hear my clients. And may I give thanks to You for giving me the opportunity to serve your children as they seek shelter and may I never forget, under all is land to which You have provided.

by Tom Schoenbeck

Shoes for Kids in Millsboro Delaware

2009-11-20T14:12:00.000-08:00

The seventh annual Share Your Soles for Christmas shoe drive for children began on Nov. 16th and runs through the holidays. Tom and Jean Sullivan, owners of the Good Feet Store in Millsboro Delaware, says they are looking for those gently used shoes of all types for kids. Donations may be placed in boxes in front of the Good Feet Store in the Food Lion Shopping Center in Millsboro or at the Good Feet Store in Dover, 706-B N. DuPont Highway. New shoe donations should be left in their boxes, but not wrapped.

Jean said many of us take shoes for granted, but some children in our communities have no shoes, or have one pair that are worn out. The Sullivans report no donation is too small, all are welcome. If you need more information, call (302)934-7500, or (888)606-FEET. What a perfect way to give to the community!

711 Phillips Hill Dr., Millsboro DE

2009-11-19T18:45:00.000-08:00

FHA Repairs in Delaware

2009-11-18T19:17:00.000-08:00

Did you know, FHA does not require certain automatic inspections be done? For example, except under limited circumstances, water tests, septic inspections, and even termite inspections are not required. Even those pesky missing handrails are not required for an FHA loan. Nor are cracked or damaged exit doors, cracked window glass, defective paint surfaces in the home (post 1978 construction,) minor plumbing leaks, defective floor finishes such as badly soiled carpets or worn through finish surfaces, rotten counter tops, damaged sheetrock, plaster, poor workmanship, trip hazards, or lack of all-weather driveways. When it comes to painted surfaces, only those exterior surfaces where the wood is not otherwise protected, must still be repaired. FHA MORTGAGEE LETTER 2005-ML-48 outlines to all mortgagees and appraisers what has been revised. It's a good read and something to keep on file for that next FHA loan you have coming up! Keep in mind, the lender may require some of these, but FHA does not.

Sussex County Home Foreclosure Workshop

2009-11-16T16:29:00.000-08:00

On November 21st, from 10 a.m. to noon, First State Community Action Agency will present a workshop for those homeowners facing possible foreclosure. The workshop will be at 308 N. Railrod Ave in Georgetown, Delaware. For more information, call Tracy Spriggs at 302-674-1355.

If you are worried about your mortgage payment, or if you may be facing a bank foreclosure action, you can call the state's attorneys general office through the hotline: 1-800-220-5424. The office serves as a clearinghouse for information for homeowners needing information about government programs, or if you need to connect with a housing counselor, or need information about other upcoming workshops. This clearinghouse can also be contacted if you believe you are caught up in a foreclosure scam.

Mid November Market Watch for Sussex County Delaware

2009-11-15T14:17:00.000-08:00

The current market housing statistics for Sussex County Delaware is showing a clean start and an upswing in sales. October began the 4th quarter of this calendar year and the indicators appear to be putting the market in the black. The first quarter averaged 120 homes sold for an average sales price of $292,000. The second quarter saw 215 homes sold with an increase in sales price to $298,000. The third quarter saw a strong increase; 238 sales with an average sales price of $327,000.

So where did we close in October, the beginning of the historically slower holiday months? There were 220 homes sold and with an average sales price of $323,000. This represents a jump on the first two quarters and a close neck to neck race with the third quarter. The current inventory is just over 5000 which is a decrease in the number of homes available from quarter's end in March, June, and an even inventory with September. The statistical data is running fairly even keel with Kent County and is another indicator of a slightly improving housing market.

The Mid-November Market Statistics for Kent County Delaware

2009-11-14T07:48:00.000-08:00

According to TREND, the tri-state MLS system, the market watch for Kent County is still showing a slight buyer's edge, but with a miniscule pendulum swing towards being a seller's market. In September, the average sold price was $196,200 with 126 homes sold. October edged up slightly to an average of $208,600 with 123 homes sold. This reflects a decrease in the number of sales, but an increase in the average home price; one indicator of the market shifting back to the seller's advantage. The current mid-month average is now $198,000 with 36 homes still pending for November, for a projected 70 units to be sold. The October days on the market dropped from a previous month's average of 116 to 107 days. Mid-November's average days on the market is now 118 days.

Poised to Meet Generation Y in Delaware

2009-11-13T14:16:00.000-08:00

We are about to embark on a whole new community of home shoppers, the new generation of homeowners; Generation Y. As approximately 74,000,000 people born between 1980 and 1995 begin to enter their prime of home ownership, as a REALTOR, I am prepared to meet the challenge and meet their demands. As the Baby Boomers, like myself, and Gen X'ers settle into their homes and lifestyles, this new wave of market savvy buyers will create a whole new set of directions for each of us.

This new wave of buyers are all too familiar with all the modern tools of communication that Baby Boomers and many Gen-X buyers did not have access to, or are too hesitant to delve into. They are almost all familiar with the internet, cell phones, Blackberry's, social media weblogging, texting, e.mailing, and every other Twitterable method of mass communication. This is a group of intelligent, independent, oft times live-in-the-moment, instant gratification young adults and they will be hitting the market like a Tsunami in search of a landing spot. Are you ready to batten down the hatches and ride the wave of the next generation? I am.

Many Gen-Y college grads will have unsurpassed debts in comparision to their predecessors, but they are not dissmayed to discouraged by the current economy. They are filled with bright outlooks and expectations for their future and they demand all that the world can give them. When they ask questions, they demand answers and they want those answers now. Many of them are financial savvy and have a decent grasp on the economy and are chomping at the bit to be involved in shaping our way of life. Todays high school and college students will be tomorrow's investors. Are you ready? I am.

With the busy lifestyle young people tend to lead, they will seek close to home services, and those homes will need to be close to where they work, go to school, worship, commute, excercise, play, and raise families in whatever form that may take. They will want a fast paced home to keep up with their fast paced life and they will demand no less. They will want smart financing, quick paced REALTORS, affordable homes, and all the bells and whistles their money can buy. They will be tech tough and they will want their REALTOR to be the same. Are you? I am.

The next time you drive through your neighborhood and see a group of kids waiting for the bus, which comes to mind? There's trouble, OR, there's my next client? The art of the deal comes with forward thinking, even if you have to wait a couple of years. Generation Z should be a blast!

Does Delaware Owe You Money?

2009-11-10T14:24:00.000-08:00

The annual unclaimed escheat funds list will soon be released naming about 85,000 owners of unclaimed revenue in Delaware. The Delaware Division of Revenue releases this list every year and includes unclaimed money, stocks, bonds, wages, dividends, interest, etc. As required by statute, the money is reportd to the state escheator by corporations and other sources. Since Delaware is the state of incorporation, most large companies are incorporated here and they report abandoned funds to the state.

The funds, if not claimed, are turned over to the State of Delaware, often times amounting to several hundred thousand dollars. If you feel you may have funds owed to you, simply go on line to: http://revenue.delaware.gov/. Click on the Search the Unclaimed Property Database. You do not have to be a Delawarean to have unclaimed funds. Due to the shear volume of potential claimants, the process may take up to four months to receive your funds. Happy hunting!

Tax Credit Extended in Delaware

2009-11-08T11:22:00.000-08:00

President Obama signed an expanded version of the $8,000 first-time homebuyer tax credit. The previous version was due to expire November 30th. This newer version may stimulate the housing market even further than the last since this version qualifies more buyers. The tax credit remains at $8,000 for homebuyers that have not owned a primary residence in the past three years and it also includes a $6,500 credit for homebuyers that have lived in their primary residence for 5 consecutive years out of the past 8 years. Under the old version, those simply moving up the housing chain did not qualify, now they may.

The tax credit will apply to purchases for less than $800,000 before May 1, 2010. If however, you enter into a sales contract prior to the deadline and settle prior to July 1st, you may still qualify. The income limitation for single tax payers is $125,000 and for married taxpayers the limit is $225,000. Both income categories is an increase from the previous plan.

The credit applies to 1-4 unit homes provided you live in one of the units as your primary residence. You could live in one unit and rent out the others. If two unmarried individuals buy a home, and only one of the individuals qualifies for the credit based on their income or past home ownership status, the individual who qualifies for the credit can claim the full credit. (Note: In the case of married couples, both spouses must qualify for the credit). The tax credit applies even if you have co-signers on your mortgage loan

Delaware Electric Co-op Members Get Refund

2009-11-07T16:44:00.000-08:00

For those members of the Delaware Electric Cooperative, you should be receiving a credit refund. Since you are owners of the co-op, you share in the margins, otherwise known as profits. Although the co-op strives to keep rates as low as possible, when there are profits, they go back to the consumer. This year, there is $1.5 million in margins that will be credited to the owners- you!

If you are a current member and have a credit of $100 or more, then you will receive a check. If your credit is under $100, the amount will be credited to your December bill. Do you know of any other utility that gives back to their customers?

Social Media Alert and Your Next Employer

2009-11-07T14:40:00.000-08:00

According to the Oregon Business Report, and CareerBuilder.com, as many as 45% of employers search the web for prospective employees. This search is not for resumes, but for social media content about those prospective employees. As REALTORS, we enjoy the booming new social media dot com platforms to network with colleagues and make those new connections with potential employers. Yes, I said employers- your clients. Have you ever considered that your next client; your next employer, may be scrubbing the web right now?

Imagine your client researching you and finding you on Facebook, Twitter, My Space or other sites, and discovering those old college or last January's New Years Eve party photos? You know the ones I mean. The half drunk, half naked, almost erotic photos some feel compelled to share. Or perhaps they read the blurb you wrote yesterday when you were frustrated with the government. Or you had a momentary laspe in judgment and had an outburst of anti-religious, anti-gay, or some other form of personal venting. What if they read a blog you wrote where you use disparaging language towards another REALTOR, your former employer, or maybe your last client? How about the client that reads too many misspelled words, poor editing, or improper punctuation? What might that say about your attention to detail and how you might handle their deal?

Here's something else to consider. While you may be the All-American REALTOR, what about those friends you have on your social lists? What happens when your client hits you up to be a friend, and then they read all of your other friend's comments? Might those clients begin to wonder why you would be friends with a druggie, a self-professed spouse beater, an exhibitionist, or maybe just an all-around jerk? And when they watch to see the shear amount of time you spend on games, might they wonder when you could possibly have time for them?

So, what can you do? If you insist on dabbling on social sites wherein you are compelled to publish those old photos, or insist on giving the world a tongue lashing, maybe you could consider creating a alter ego profile that you do not link to your professional profile. There is nothing wrong with using social sites, but as with anything, uncontrolled behavior may ultimately haunt you.

Soup Kitchen in Millsboro Delaware

2009-11-07T10:13:00.000-08:00

How often do we wonder about the people that tirelessly give of themselves to give back to the community? Let me tell you about one such angel amongst us that goes about his business in a quiet and humble way in order to help feed the homebound and hungry in Millsboro Delaware. The gentleman's name is Nick Varrato. Nick is a full-time REALTOR with Keller Williams Realty at the Beach in Lewes, Delaware.

As busy as his life may be as a REALTOR, every Thursday morning without fail; rain or shine, Nick can be found at the church hall on Morris St., in Millsboro Delaware preparing the noon meal for about 80 area residents. He scuttles about the kitchen like a mother hen tending to her brood. He pours over his receipes and makes sure every morsel is prepared to perfection and with the same care and attention to detail found in the best bestros of America. His diligence in his work can only be matched by the finest chefs and can only be appreciated by the most in need to which he attends. Nick is the Leonard Berstein of the kitchen as his tenacity and uncanny ability to orchestrate the entire process can only be matched by orchestral masters.

Nick gets his food from donations from area residents and what is not donated, he purchases himself. He never turns anyone away and constantly seeks out new families in need of a helping hand. He accepts food and money donations from those that can, and a smile from the rest.

Nick, you are a great guy and we are so very blessed to have you in the community! If you would like to donate to the soup kitchen, stop by the Methodist Church hall any Thursday morning at 330 East Church St. on the corner of E. Church St., and S. Morris St., in beautiful downtown Millsboro Delaware.

Defective Drywall Made in China

2009-11-06T06:43:00.000-08:00

With the recent news about defective drywall made in China, how can a homeowner detect if their home has this insidious material? According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, there is no positive test to detect this drywall. There are however, some common homeowner tests you can do to see if you have it installed throughout your home.

First, contact your builder and see if they can advise you where they purchased your drywall or if they know the brand name of the drywall they installed. If this does not yield the results you need, here are some simple checks you can perform. Since this particular drywall emits a Sulphuric smell, mostly associated with what we consider a rotten egg odor, it's a good bet you may have it. Other telltale signs are corrosion on copper coils on your a/c unit, water pipes, or electrical wiring in your outlets. There may be some obvious signs such as a blackening mold-like appearance on the surface of the drywall. Check in the attic and pull back some of the insulation. You may be able to see the name of the manufacturer on the exposed drywall. If your home has copper piping, look carefully for signs of corrosion.

According to Danny Lipford, a well known home-improvement guru on DiY Network, he advises there is another way to determine if you have this Chinese made product. He suggests suspending silver jewelry or kitchen utensil in front of an air vent. If the item begins to discolor, not just tarnish, in a few days, it's possible you have this drywall.

Many consumers also report adverse health effects such as respiratory difficulties, unexplained and frequent headaches.

The only know remedy, is to remove and replace all the defective drywall, a rather expensive remedy. Simply painting or papering over this drywall, will not stop it's deterioration. Always contact an expert and possibly and attorney if you suspect you have this drywall in your home.

(Delaware has not been currently identified as a state with this problem associated with this drywall.)

Delaware to Receive Free Smoke Detectors

2009-10-31T13:07:00.000-07:00

All Delaware fire stations will again offer free smoke detectors and replacement batteries to residents that visit from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 31. Delawareans can receive free smoke detectors or replacement batteries, along with fire prevention information, when they visit. Anyone requiring assistance installing smoke detectors is encouraged to ask fire department personnel to help them.

The smoke from a residential fire can overpower someone in as little as two minutes, especially while asleep. Working smoke detectors are an essential early warning device in the event of a fire. Residents need to understand the importance of having working smoke detectors on every level of their homes, particularly near sleeping quarters. They also need to recognize that replacing detector batteries once every year is vital.

Since Wake Up Delaware began in 2002, firefighters throughout the state have distributed more than 100,000 smoke detectors and 60,000 replacement batteries to state residents, all free of charge. This is the eighth year for the statewide distribution event, funded by a federal grant from the U.S. Fire Administration, a division of the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

As in the previous seven years, the 2009 Wake Up Delaware campaign occurs on the same weekend as the nation changes clocks back to Standard Time. The Wake Up Delaware program reminds residents to ensure smoke detectors are working by putting new batteries in them when they change their clocks every fall. Fire stations have ample inventories of smoke detectors and replacement batteries for Delaware residents that need them, along with fire prevention information.

Wake Up Delaware is sponsored by the Delaware Volunteer Firefighters’ Association and its more than 6,000 members statewide.

(reblogged with permission from the Dover Post, On-line)

El humo de un incendio en el hogar puede dominar a alguien en tan sólo dos minutos, especialmente mientras duerme. Detectores de humo de trabajo son un elemento esencial del dispositivo de alerta temprana en caso de un incendio. Los residentes deben comprender la importancia de contar con detectores de humo en cada nivel de sus hogares, en particular cerca de los dormitorios. También es necesario reconocer que la sustitución de baterías del detector una vez al año es de vital importancia.

Desde el despertador Delaware comenzó en 2002, los bomberos de todo el estado se han distribuido más de 100.000 los detectores de humo y 60.000 baterías de repuesto para los residentes del estado, todo de forma gratuita. Este es el octavo año para el evento de distribución en todo el estado, financiado por una subvención federal de la Administración de Incendios de los EE.UU., una división de la Federal Emergency Management Agency.

Al igual que en los últimos siete años, de 2009 Wake Up campaña de Delaware se produce en el mismo fin de semana como la nación cambia relojes a la hora estándar. El programa despertador de Delaware recuerda a los residentes para garantizar los detectores de humo están trabajando por poner pilas nuevas en cuando cambian sus relojes cada otoño. Parques de bomberos tienen grandes inventarios de detectores de humo y baterías de repuesto para los residentes de Delaware que los necesitan, junto con información de prevención de incendios.

Wake Up Delaware es patrocinado por la Asociación de Bomberos Voluntarios de Delaware y sus más de 6.000 miembros en todo el estado.

Delaware's Energy Efficiency is Growing

2009-10-30T08:28:00.000-07:00

Delaware was recognized on Oct 21st by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy as the most improved state in energy efficiency policy and programs. According to an all-state scorecard from the council, Delaware was the most improved state, leaping from 32 in the nation last year to 20 this year. Delaware Governor, Jack Markell, said “We’re pleased to be recognized... as the most improved state and to join other states in the list of top-20 performers with respect to energy efficiency.” He also went on to say this will create jobs and improve industry growth.

This, in combination with the state's new push towards wind turbine use and other sustainable energy programs, in concert with our low realty taxes, progressive growth, no sales tax, and affordable housing, continues to put Delaware on the map as a highly desireable place to call home.

De Delaware fue reconocida el 21 de octubre por el Consejo Americano para una Economía de Energía Eficiente como el estado que más ha mejorado en materia de eficiencia energética y los programas. De acuerdo con un cuadro de mando del Estado todos los del Consejo, Delaware fue el estado que más ha mejorado, saltando de 32 en el país el año pasado a 20 este año. Gobernador de Delaware, Jack Markell, dijo que "Estamos encantados de ser reconocidos ... como el estado que más ha mejorado y unirse a otros estados en la lista de los artistas intérpretes o ejecutantes-20 con respecto a la eficiencia energética ". Asimismo, continuó diciendo que esto creará puestos de trabajo y mejorar el crecimiento de la industria.

Esto, en combinación con el nuevo impulso del estado hacia el uso de turbinas eólicas y otros programas de energía sostenible, en colaboración con nuestros impuestos de bienes raíces de baja, el crecimiento progresivo, no hay impuesto sobre las ventas, y la vivienda asequible, sigue poniendo de Delaware en el mapa para un lugar muy conveniente para llamar a casa.

Freddie Mac, You Broke my Heart

2009-10-29T11:45:00.000-07:00

Freddie Mac you broke my heart. You teased me with your beautiful little condo nestled on the wooded hillside by the lake. Two ample bedrooms and two sparkling baths complete with tile floors and sleek tile tub surrounds. Your spacious south facing living room took full advantage of the fleeting Seattle sun. But you, unresponsive, communication challenged, and unable to commit. My intentions were clear from the very start, I wanted your condo to be my own to have and to hold in sickness and health to sale do we part, but it seems it was just not to be. Perhaps you have been wounded by other less serious suitors but 30 days is way too long to expect me to wait. Terms agreed to orally but no written response. As beautiful and seductive as your condo is I have left you for another.

Three days from offer to inspection and now ready to close. My new condo is beautiful and fully committed, closer to the city center and in way better shape. You my old flame, I wish all the best. Perhaps we can still be friends but more likely I think not. Freddie Mac, until you clean up your act and deal with your skeletons you are destined to keep your own condo company.

Thoughts from a buyer after waiting 30 days for a signed agreement from Freddie Mac that never materialized.

(Reblogged with permission from Brian Leavitt, a Licensed Real Estate Broker and Licensed Mortgage Broker representing Northstone Real Estate Inc, and Northstone Mortgage.)

Delaware's Lower Income Families Get a 'Warm' Boost This Winter

2009-10-25T13:20:00.000-07:00

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services sent $10.6 million to Delaware out of a $2.6 billion coffer to help low income families with their heating bills during the winter months. Health and Human Services Secretary, Kathleen Sebelius said these funds are granted to states under the federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP.) "Each year, LIHEAP helps more than five million low income households deal with energy costs," said Carmen R. Nazario, assistant secretary for children and families. "We will continue to work with Delaware to assure their heating assistance programs work effectively."

Los Departamento de Salud y Servicios Humanos envió 10,6 millones dólares a Delaware de un cofre de 2,6 mil millones dólares para ayudar a familias de bajos ingresos con sus cuentas de calefacción durante los meses de invierno. Salud y Servicios Humanos, Kathleen Sebelius dijo que estos fondos se conceden a los Estados en virtud de la Ley Federal de Hogares de Bajos Ingresos Programa de Asistencia Energética (LIHEAP.) "Cada año, LIHEAP ayuda a más de cinco millones de hogares de bajos ingresos frente a costos de la energía", dijo Carmen R . Nazario, secretario adjunto para niños y familias. "Vamos a seguir trabajando con Delaware para asegurar sus programas de asistencia de calefacción funcione adecuadamente."

Kent County's Water Makes the Nationals!

2009-10-25T08:26:00.000-07:00

As reported by the Kent County Levy Court, the October 2009 edition of Treatment Plant Operator magazine featured Kent County's Wastewater Treatment Plant. The magazine is a national trade publication for municipal and county wastewater operations. The article focuses on Kent County's water treatment advancements which resulted in the plant winning the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Operations and Maintenance Award for Advanced Large Plants in 2007. Its standing is a model plant for wastewater operators from around the world. Plant operators from around the world, such as Brazil, South Africa, Germany, Bulgaria, Saudi Arabia, and Russia have visited the plant to learn more about Kent County's Wastewater operations.

Farmers in Delaware Get Boost in Loan Limits

2009-10-24T12:55:00.000-07:00

The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Guaranteed Loan Program has increased its loan limit to $1,112,000, effective Oct. 1, 2009. Each year, the National Agricultural Statistics Service adjusts the limits based on the Prices Paid to Farmers Index. The loan program allows farm credit lenders to extend credit to qualified applicants who might not otherwise meet lending criteria.

The Farm Service Agency (FSA) offers a Direct Loan Program as an alternative for those unable to obtain financing from a commercial lending source. Direct farm loans are government-funded and made by FSA. Farmers interested in applying for a direct loan should contact their local FSA office.

Departamento de Agricultura de los Préstamos Garantizados Programa ha aumentado su límite de préstamo a 1.112.000 dólares, a partir del 1 de octubre 2009. Cada año, el Servicio Nacional de Estadísticas Agrícolas ajusta a los límites sobre la base de los precios pagados a los agricultores de índice. El programa de préstamo permite a los prestamistas de crédito agrícola para extender el crédito a los solicitantes calificados que de otro modo no podría cumplir con los criterios de préstamo. La Agencia de Servicio Agrícola (FSA) ofrece un Programa de Préstamos Directos como una alternativa para quienes no pueden obtener financiación de una fuente de préstamos comerciales. Préstamos agrícolas directos son financiados por el gobierno y realizado por la FSA. Los agricultores interesados en solicitar un préstamo directo, deben comunicarse con su oficina local de la FSA.

Wind Power Comes to Lewes Delaware!

2009-10-24T10:51:00.000-07:00

Wind power is the wave of the future when it comes to green energy production. It's an inevitability that will serve communities with clean, cheap, electricial energy. This past week, the University of Delaware launched it's turbine project with Gamesa Corp, a Madrid Spain company. Wind power is an excellent source of energy, and for those with available land and good prevailing winds averaging 11 to 13 miles per hour, this could be a great investment. Typically, a 2-megawatt turbine provides enough electrical energy to power approximately 500 homes. The University of Delaware College of Earth, Ocean, and Environment will be 100% wind powered when this project is complete.

Home Selling in Today's Delaware Market

2009-10-22T15:10:00.000-07:00

Are you thinking about selling your home, but you're afraid you won't get out of it what you feel it's worth? Here are some hard facts you need to reconcile in your mind. Today's real estate market is not what it was last year, the year before, or the year before that. Today's market is a buyer's market and many home owners feel they are taking it on the chin when it comes time to sell their pride and joy. A home that commanded a hefty price 3 or 4 years ago, will not garner the same market price today. Unfortunately, you are in the same seller's boat as thousands of others. You may feel all those upgrade dollars you poured into your home has to come back to you, dollar for dollar, when it comes time to sell. Sad to say, this is not the case.

Your REALTOR can only advise you on what would be considered a fair market price by preparing an indepth Comparative Market Analysis, but it most likely will not be what you expect. A couple of things to remember if your REALTOR gives you that shot of reality. The home you want to sell at a higher than market price will sit and languish on the market if it's not priced correctly. The first 2 or 3 weeks your home is on the market is the peak period for buyer interest. It goes downhill from that point, so why not price it right from the start? If you are selling in order to buy a new home, then remember the dollars you perceive you will lose on the sale, will be dollars in equity you will recoop on your new purchase. If you price your home too high, that's longer time you will be making those payments and the longer time it will be before you can move on. If your REALTOR advises you of a fair market price, and if you want to sell it as quickly as possible, then list your home under that market suggestion. There are too many homes on the market that are priced right for your home to be over-priced.

It may also be a good idea to wait to sell your home if you are in a position to do so. The bottom line: this is a business transaction and the seller that listens to their professional advisor; their REALTOR, is the business person that will make the smartest financial deal in the quickest time. After all, isn't this why you hired a pro?

Delaware, the Bike Friendly State!

2009-10-21T09:00:00.000-07:00

Besides being a terrific place to live and work, with terrific communities, low taxes, no sales tax, low (and I mean low) property taxes, Delaware now has another bragging right to add to its attactiveness.

According to the Department of Transportation, Delaware is one of the most bike-friendly states in the nation. We are now ranked number 9, up from number 31 last year. The ranking program, run by the League of American Bicyclists, ranks states according to their accomodations to cyclists.

"It is good to see that more Delawareans are getting out of their cars and onto their bikes," said Gov. Jack Markell. DelDOT spokeswoman Misty Seemans said the agency thinks in terms of "smart transportation, not just vehicle transportation."

The Bicycle Friendly State program has two parts that rank states that actively support bicycling. States are ranked based on their level of bike friendliness. Delaware was the highest placing state in the mid-Atlantic. Nationally, from first to 10th, were Washington, Wisconsin, Maine, Oregon, Minnesota, Iowa, Arizona, New Hampshire, Delaware and New Jersey.

24th Annual Delaware Punkin Chunkin is Coming Soon!

2009-10-21T05:40:00.000-07:00

The 2009 Punkin Chunkin contest will be held Nov 6th, 7th, and 8th in beautiful Bridgeville Delaware. Make your plans now and come on out for a great seasonal event.

The World Championship Punkin' Chunkin' is name of an annual championship pumpkin-throwing contest held the first weekend after Halloween in Sussex County, Delaware. Competing teams construct and fire a variety of pumpkin-launching devices, including catapults, trebuchets, centrifugal machines, and pneumatic cannons. Contestants compete in divisions against machines of the same type.

It started in 1986 in Millsboro. Due to the increasing space required as the machines are upgraded to fire the pumpkins farther, the event has moved several times from where it began. About 75 teams competed in the 2007 event, held outside Bridgeville near Coverdale, Delaware. That year the event drew more than 20,000 people and grossed more than $100,000 in ticket sales and associated revenues. More than 70% of that money will be donated to a variety of community organizations.

Each type of machine competes in different categories, including height, fan favorite, straightness, and most importantly, range. Each launcher counts the best of three shots. Launchers typically hurl white pumpkins because they can better withstand the forces of launch than the regular orange ones. Each chunk is then marked with a small, color coded flag by officials in the chunking zone on ATVs. The sole fatality of the contest has been a duck hit by a hurled pumpkin.

There is also a carnival lol for spectators with amusement rides, food vendors and pumpkin recipes in a cooking contest.

The World Championship Punkin' Chunkin' Current Records as of the 2008 Championship. 2008 Records have been officially evaluated by the World Championship Punkin Chunkin Association.

Distance and Year
4483.51 2008
2770.74 2004
2862.28 2005
2894.92 2008
1827.57 2004
3091.58 2008
2229.59 2005
3945.28 2003
1232.94 2005
760.77 2008
853.46 2006
1939.81 2002

Delaware Senator Kaufman's Reply to the Tax Credit

2009-10-20T13:04:00.000-07:00

October 20, 2009

Mr. Thomas Schoenbeck
xxx xxxx xxxxxxxxx
Harbeson, DE 19951-2710

Dear Mr. Schoenbeck:

Thank you for your email regarding the first-time homebuyer tax credit. I appreciate hearing from you on this important issue.

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act that was passed earlier this year included an $8,000 tax credit for first time homebuyers. In order to receive the tax credit, the home that is purchased must be the buyer's principle residence. As you know, first-time homebuyers are able to take advantage of the tax credit for purchases made between January 1, 2009 and December 1, 2009.

Our economy will not fully recover until our housing market is stable and healthy again. That is why I supported adding the homebuyer tax credit to our economic recovery plan earlier this year. I appreciate your suggestion to extend the tax credit. I believe that a well-designed extension of the homebuyer tax credit will continue to help our overall economic recovery and I will certainly keep it in mind as we continue to monitor the economy.

Again, thank you for contacting me. I hope you will continue to keep in touch on matters of importance to you.

Sincerely,

Edward E. Kaufman
United States Senator

Plantation Road Residents Say No, No, No!

2009-10-19T17:52:00.001-07:00

For those familiar with Plantation Road in Lewes and Rehoboth Beach Delaware, the two lane residential area that runs behind the business complexes on the Route 1 corridor needs to remain residential. A planned 22,500 square foot medical complex is not a welcome addition to the upscale neighborhood. Plantation Road is a well used road for locals, keeping residential traffic away from Coastal Highway. The proposed complex would impede the traffic flow of the 11 subdivisions found in the immediate area. Setting a conditional use precedence in the area would open the door for further commercial zoning and development and would run contrary to the purpose of the bypass road for those residents living off Plantation Road and the surrounding areas. With the 1400 to 1500 homes in the area's developments, there seem to be very little need for a medical complex in that particular area. Simliar to the Lingo Townsend Development that is running into heavy opposition, this proposed construction would be better suited amongst other like facilities.

An End to Predatory Practices

2009-10-19T15:47:00.001-07:00

As reported in the Delaware Cape Gazette and as a follow-up from my previous post: Delaware Gov. Jack Markell signed legislation on Oct 6th to protect Delaware homeowners who are at risk of foreclosure. House Bill 232 clarifies that companies that offer to negotiate modifications of secured debts are subject to provisions of the Mortgage Rescue Fraud Protection Act. This Act prevents companies from charging exorbitant up-front fees to homeowners in foreclosure in order to negotiate with loan servicers or lenders.

"Homeownership is good for families' personal finances, and it's good for our economy," Markell said. "It is important that we help homeowners stay in their homes and protect their most important asset, especially during this downturn in the national economy."

Attorney General, Beau Biden asserts this legislation makes it very clear that vulnerable homeowners are protected under the law from unfair and often predatory practices.

Bowers waterman recognized for conservation efforts - Dover, DE - Dover Post

2009-10-18T12:54:00.001-07:00

Bowers waterman recognized for conservation efforts - Dover, DE - Dover Post

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Dover Delaware, a Great Place to Enjoy!

2009-10-15T17:53:00.000-07:00

Delaware Foreclosure Mediation Program

2009-10-14T10:16:00.000-07:00

The Delaware Mediation Program Steering Committee announced an administrative directive establishing the Residential Mortgage Foreclosure Mediation Program. This program allows homeowners to participate in a court mediation process with their lenders to find an agreeable alternative to foreclosure action.

The state reconizes that many families did everything the right way, but still felt the recessionary pinch. This program will help families stay in their homes and will help ebb the flowing tide of foreclosures and reduce the glut in the REO market.

The Residential Mortgage Foreclosure Mediation Program gives homeowners who are behind on their mortgage payments an opportunity to meet with a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)-certified housing counselor and request mediation with their lenders under the guidance of Delaware Volunteer Legal Services.

Homeowners will work with a counselor and prepare a proposal under which they can reasonably sustain their monthly mortgage payments, including taxes, interest, insurance and other fees.

Delaware averages nearly 2,000 foreclosures a year. In 2008, the number rocketed to about 4,500 filings. This year, the pace continues to grow and filings in Delaware are projected to exceed 6,000. This mediation program will be the first comprehensive tool designed to keep families in their homes and thereby stabilize our state's economy.

As a REALTOR, I am pleased to hear of this new program. Perhaps with everyone's cooperation, we can stem the tide and reverse this epidemic. If more states are able to follow suit, then perhaps we can change the foreclosure picture on a national level. I guess that's why we are The First State!

Details being hammered out for State Street paving - Dover, DE - Dover Post

2009-10-11T12:41:00.001-07:00

Details being hammered out for State Street paving - Dover, DE - Dover Post

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Boycott Lenders?

2009-10-07T05:22:00.000-07:00

I am so sick of hearing these stories about short sales and how the banks are refusing to cooperate and how they attempt to cut commissions, and how they drag their feet, how we lose clients over the frustration, how the government has put no enforceable guidelines in place, etc, etc, etc. It's for these very reasons I don't do short sales transactions.

One of my philosophies in life is this: If you can verablize a problem, you should also have a solution, otherwise you're just another complainer. So, here's my solution. Tell me what you think. Since we can't (or shouldn't) refuse to list short sales, since this would only hurt the general public, I think we should outright boycott ANY bank, ANY lender, that refuses to cooperate in short sales within our state. Let the lenders know, they we will not recommend their lending institution to anyone seeking a loan, unless they show greater effort in processing these short sales. I would also write your state representative and let them know what is happening and implore them to draft legislation that requires lenders to operate in good faith and get these properties sold.

Tax Credit and NAR's Call to Action

2009-10-07T03:35:00.000-07:00

Dear Colleagues, Clients, and Community Partners,

Time is running out for the first-time home buyer's tax credit. While it may not help some, it may help others. Let your representative know you care and this is an important issue for you and your clients, who also happen to be voting constituents. NAR has again put out a Call to Action. Here is the link, very easy to do: Let them hear from you!.

Final Walk-Through Horror Story!

2009-10-07T03:30:00.000-07:00

We are all familiar with the final walk-through. You know, that magic (hold your breath) time just before settlement when the new owners walk through the home one last time before they sign all the papers. Well how about this little nightmare? (One of the agents in the office relayed this at our sales meeting the other day.) You take your clients through the house and everything is just as you expect it to be. Nice, clean, quiet, ready to move in. Then, the unthinkable happens. You turn the corner into the the kitchen and to your utter gut wrenching shock, you and your buyer discover- there is no kitchen! It's been gutted from top to bottom, front to back. Just the bare walls stand in testimony to what once was a kitchen. As you gasp and clutch your pearls, you feel a flush of red-hot blood coursing through your head and you see today's settlement slip right through your fingers and hit the floor like a echoing thud in a deep canyon. Your client screams "What the &*#*@ happened?"

And all that comes to your mind is Fred Sanford grasping his chest saying "I'm coming Elizabeth, I'm coming!" So how could this scenario happen? Well, a well meaning contractor, with a not-so-well meaning method, decided to take it upon himself to start remedying some of the repair work that was agreed upon between buyer and seller. The only trouble is, the contractor did not get permission to commence work, nor was he provided authorized access to enter the home. He evidently gained access through an unwitting Realtor that mistakingly left the combination lock unscrambled and the contractor made note of the combination on a previous visit. Talk about a sad day for everyone. Buyer and seller get delayed, REALTORS are dismayed, and contractor, well what a baaaad boy and what a legal mess he's created for himself. Lessons to be learned: For the REALTOR, never allow anyone access to your listing without you being present and if you must use a combination lock, never give out the combo. To the contractor, get your work in writing and never commence work without a written contract.

So, You Insist on Buying a Short Sale Home?

2009-09-22T15:36:00.000-07:00

I constantly have clients who insist on buying a home under short sale status. Here's my advise to those buyers that have this strange penchant for aggravation. There are some great buys out there, provided you are a very patient person.

If you are the type person that has to honk your horn at the car in front of you the micro-second the light turns green, if you are the type person that constantly checks your watch to see only 15 seconds has passed since you last checked it, if you are the type of person that jumps on the phone because the repairman has yet to show and it's only 30 seconds past the due time, or if you are the type of person that would rather run over the squirrel in the road rather than wasting a split second by braking, then perhaps a short sale may not be what you are looking for. On the other hand, if you are the type of person that can sit for hours on end and simply stare off into space (alcohol stupor notwithstanding,) the type of person that can hold off eating this week because your local grocer is going to have a big sale next week, or the type of person that can actually watch paint dry, then perhaps you have what it takes to join the short sale market.

While it may be uncommon, most short sales are anything but short on time, and very long on aggravation and heartache. The purchase you may want to make, may have 3 or 4 offers already sitting on the assest manager's desk and they are simply waiting for... who knows what! Your offer can be rejected without you ever finding out about it, or finding out it was rejected 3 months ago, it may be rejected only to have a lesser offer ultimately accepted, your offer may be rejected if you are a cash buyer. Meanwhile, the other sweet home you were considering while your short sale offer was tendered, may be gone, and in most instances already settled before you finally get the call your offer was rejected.

So, if you insist on telling me you must have a short sale home and you are an impatient person, please don't blame me when things don't go your way and please don't blow your horn at me. On the other hand, if you want a short sale home, and you have nothing but time on your side, let's do it! Just keep in mind, you can blow your horn all you want, I can't make the light turn green.

Second Street Players in Milford

2009-09-21T18:11:00.000-07:00

Final Second Street Player Performance of the Season

Second Street Players presents a delightful night out. The final season's event is in the Milford Delaware Georgia House on Sep 26th. The Second Street Players will be entertaining you with a wonderfully delightful presentation of Rogers and Hammerstein's Cinderella. This is a terrific community event and a great way to spend the evening. The doors open at 5 pm and dinner is at 6 pm. Curtain is 8 pm. Tickets for the show and dinner are $50. You can call 302-422-0220 for reservations.

Hazard Zone Public Hearing

2009-09-20T17:45:00.000-07:00

On Oct 5, 2009, the Kent County Department of Public Safety will be holding an open meeting to present the update of the Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment (HIRA) and to get your input. The meeting will be held at 6:00 p.m. at the Kent County Emergency Services Building on Rt 113. If you have an interest in properties located in hazard-prone areas, or have property that could be affected by regulatory changes, be sure to attend. This is the first public meeting in the planning process. The second meeting will be on Oct 21, 2009 to present to the public further updates.

Home Sellers Lowering Prices Again!

2009-09-16T09:51:00.000-07:00

According to Trulia Inc. home sellers continue to lower their listing prices. For the fourth month in a row, listing prices have dropped by at least one price reduction since the beginning of the month. This is a 10% increase over reductions since June 2009. During the summer months, June to September, the total reduction seen is $1.1 Billion and the average decrease remains at 10% from the original list price. Sellers seem to be getting the message that if they want to sell, they have to address the number one reason for their home sitting on the market- price! It may also appear sellers are listening to the advise of their REALTORS.

Modular Homes are a Great Alternative

2009-09-13T18:26:00.001-07:00

With the growing emphasis on 'going green,' there is a niche in housing manufacturing that has been rearing its green head and is right in the forefront of this revolution. Many prospective buyers say they don't want to look at modular homes, mistakingly believing they are inferior to on-site stick built homes. When you look at the process, modular homes are actually more efficiently built and cheaper to purchase than stick built homes. The manufacturing process itself is more prone to controlled efficiency. There are no sub-contractors that may or may not show up at the job site like with a stick built home. The warehouses in most manufactured building plants are stocked with all the necessary lumber and hardware, so there's no wasted time and fuel driving to the hardware store getting more materials. Modular home models have preplanned templates to follow so there's less waste in cutting lumber. My grandfather used to say "measure twice and cut once" and manufactured housing has this down to a science. Many modular home builders have a handle on recyling lumber and other materials. Ever look at a stick built home job site? Not a pretty picture sometimes. Ever tour a modular home plant? Greatly improved! The only time workers need to show up at the home site, is to build the foundation, and then to set the home and roof in place. A greatly reduced neighborhood intrusion process than with month's long stick building. Let your buyer know modular homes are built indoors under temperature controlled environments and each phase of the work is under quality control scrutiny. The bottom line in all this. A modular home is every bit as good or better than a stick built home and the average price per square foot is about 35% less than the traditional on-site built home. Maybe the next time your client says, 'no modulars please' ask them if they would like to take a tour of your local modular home plant. I think they might be pleased and come away with a different perspective.

Maybe Progress Isn't Always the Best Thing

2009-09-12T12:16:00.000-07:00

When someone says progress, I'm usually the first in line, especially if it means an improvement in local resources and added value to current markets. However, sometimes progress is not the best avenue when it aggressively effects niche areas. Lewes Delaware is good example. Lewes is a quaint town nestled in the coastal area of Sussex County. As with all tourist areas, there has been growth, but the majority of it has been out from the town center towards the main highway several miles away. This growth has not seemingly affected the attractiveness of Lewes, especially its historic seafaring downtown. Currently, there is a proposal to build a 300,000 square foot shopping mall and a 20,000 square foot office complex, just steps away from the downtown section of Lewes. Expectantly, the local residents are not pleased with this proposed development as they feel, as do I, this would heavily taint the historic charm of Lewes. What gives Lewes residents a real salt-in-the wound rub, is the proposed development is just outside the reach of the town limits, leaving area residents with little say in the matter. As a local myself, I see plenty of opportunity where this shopping mall could be built, off the coastal highway. Its location would then be with other like-in-kind commercial properties leaving the downtown section of Lewes with its idyllic charm.

And Just Why is Rehoboth Beach a Great Place?

2009-09-10T12:33:00.000-07:00

Besides being a great local getaway spot for many Delawareans, Rehoboth Beach Delaware is a nationally recognized place to play and relax. It has once again been named in the top-10 best boardwalk beaches in the nation according to Forbe's Magazine- Travelers Edition. Rehoboth Beach's sister beach, Bethany Beach was ranked number 2 in the nation with Atlantic City taking the ranking spot. Rehoboth Beach has been a favorite for not only Delawareans, but Washingtonians, New Yorkers, vacationers from New Jersey, and the eastern shore residents of Maryland and Virginia. Although it's changed a bit over the years, since it was originaly built in the 1870's, it still retains it's family charm, friendliness, and attractiveness. Rehoboth Beach is the number one tourist attraction in Delaware and the mile long boardwalk is the number one attraction in Rehoboth Beach. Next time you're passing through our quaint state, stop in and see a terrific place to unwind and relax. And don't forget, we are the home of tax-free shopping and Delawareans love to shop!

Kevin's Room

2009-09-09T17:39:00.000-07:00

Each year in May, Keller Williams Realty participates in the Keller Williams Community RED Day. RED stands for Renew, Energize, and Donate. It is an initiative focused on giving back to our local communities in the form of rehabbing a home, cleaning up local sites such as walking trails, roadways, parks and playgrounds, providing food for the hungry at the local food kitchen, or any other service that improves the community. Our next service date is May 13, 2010. This RED Day is a small part of what we do at Keller Williams Realty Central DE. As a local market center, we are constantly working on projects with KW Cares, local and national.

One of our local ongoing programs (with great love and care) is Kevin's Room. Here is Kevin's remarkable story:

Kevin is 18. At age 12, following a medical procedure, he became unable to walk and his condition has declined rapidly over the years. Doctors have not been able to officially diagnose Kevin. Kevin stopped walking at 12 years of age in January of 2003. He cannot speak at all but does have his sight and hearing. He had spinal surgery in December 2007 and stayed in the children's hospital until March of 2008 with several complications. He requires diapers, pads and is being fed via a feeding tube. His medical insurance helps with the diapers, pads and formula, but does not include mouth swabs or adapters that are used for inserting his medicines. The carpeting in the house makes it difficult to move him about in his wheel chair. He has a hospital bed, Hoyer for lifting, but his room is so small that the equipment cannot be negotiated properly. The bathroom is not accessible to him for baths and showers, so he is confined to bed baths. There is a makeshift ramp over the garage steps which is the only way departing/entering the home. He is completely dependent upon the care of others. Upon hearing about Kevin's needs the Agents "team" at Keller Williams Realty Central Delaware moved into high gear. We created the Kevin's Room Project and began a fundraising crusade. The day that this story was shared with the team, we all vowed to make Kevin's Room a reality. We were able to raise almost $2,000 with our first challenge to our agents. On August 8, 2009 we held a Benefit Car Wash and Bake Sale for Kevin's Room. We raised $700 for the cause. We are planning a spaghetti dinner and a sponsored walk in the near future and are developing additional fund raising events. Kevin's Room- The actual project will consist of enlarging his existing room to hopefully include a wheelchair accessible bathroom so that he can enjoy a shower or bath. Installation of hardwood floors to make it easier to move about the home and installation of a storage space to store all his medical necessities. Sherry, Kevin's Mother, shared with us the difficulties of seeing her baby become helpless more and more each day. She prays that a miracle will happen and that one day her son will walk and speak again. She stated that she is not sure what time GOD will allow her to keep her son - but is grateful for the time that she does have and will embrace each day as if it were her last. We have received an outpouring from the community as Kevin has touched many lives during his time at the local special need school and hospitals; his smile being described as one that would melt your heart. We are dedicated to making Kevin's Room a reality. Please join us in this crusade to make a small miracle come true.

If you would like to donate your time or resources, we'd love to hear from you! CLICK HERE

The Home Sale Picture in Sussex County DE

2009-09-05T16:03:00.001-07:00

According to current market information in Sussex County Delaware, the Aug 2009 home sales are almost parallel to this time last year. In Aug, there were 43, 2-bedroom, 136, 3-bedroom, and 51, 4+-bedroom homes sold. Last August, there were 46, 2-bedroom, 134, 3-bedroom, and 58, 4+-bedrooms homes sold. The marked increase was in 3-bedroom home sales. The best news for sellers is the average number of days on the market dropped from 211 in Aug 08' to a current 176 days on the market. As in Kent County, 3-bedroom homes are outpacing the rest. The average sale price for 3-bedroom homes leaped from a Aug 08' price of $244,632, to a current average of $292,170, a $47,500, 19% increase over the previous year's sales price. The highest home price range (with the most sales) was in the $180,000 to $199,999 range with 19 homes selling. What does all this mean for you? If you are a seller in Sussex County with a 3-bedroom home and if it is priced well within the market, you can expect it will sell in reasonable period of time. It certainly appears the market is swinging back to a seller's market, inch by inch.

KW Leads the Pack!

2009-09-02T09:30:00.000-07:00

JD Power and Associates Ranks KW in the Leader Position

For the second year in a row, JD Power and Associates have ranked Keller Williams Realty the number one firm in overall customer satisfaction. This is a hard earned award for all brokerage firms and agents across the nation. As a member of KW, I am proud to be associated with this award winning family of associates.

Read the Press Release: http://www.jdpower.com/corporate/news/releases/pressrelease.aspx?ID=2009136

Are We There Yet?

2009-08-28T09:26:00.000-07:00

According to TREND, the tri-state MLS, it appears our local market in Kent County is beginning to rebound slightly. In the 2nd quarter the average home sale price rose slightly from last quarter, from $200,700 to $200,800. Not a significant increase by any means, but it does demonstrate a positive shift. The number of homes sold however, increased from a previous quarterly 201 to 300 single family home sales, a 49% increase, and that is a significant number. Housing starts broke from the gate from a previous quarter of 119 to 149 new homes being built this past quarter, and the number of days on the market dropped from 114 to 105.

The question is, which homes are selling? The highest number of homes sold were in the $150,000 to $199,000 category, 3-bedroom and 4-bedroom homes, 32 and 6 respectively. In the $200,000 to $249,000 range, there were 17, 3-bedroom and 15, 4-bedroom homes sold. The mid range 3-bedroom, 150K to 199K homes continue to outpace the rest.

And how long did it take to sell these gems? The best sellers were the 28 homes that sold within 30 days, 21 homes sold in 31 to 60 days, and the final top performers were in the 91 to 120 day range with 24 homes making it to settlement.

And what about the money market, where do we stand right now? According to Freddie Mac, a 30-year conforming loan with 20% down hovers at 5.14% And FHA continues to lead the pack in financing.

Put the entire picture together in comparison to this time last year, and leading indicators appear to show an infusion of money, housing starts, and movement of resale homes, all healthy signs of a economic upswing. If you are still one of those buyers sitting on the fence, your time is diminishing for snapping up a steal, but there are still plenty of opportunities to take part in the American Dream of home ownership. Call your REALTOR today and make it happen!

Safeguarding Buyer's Credit

2009-08-25T09:24:00.000-07:00

How Important is a Buyer's Credit Score? It is extremely important to caution your buyers about safeguarding their credit to the nth degree. After they have applied for their loan and have been approved, they need to continue to remain vigilant over their credit worthiness. All lenders (few being the exception) will re-poll the buyer's credit right before sending the loan to underwriting. Any last minute hits will reflect and may certainly put your buyer right out of minimal score lending limits. Let me exemplify this by way of a recent transaction. Mr. buyer was purchasing a home and had an FHA acceptable credit score. During the course of the lending process, he closed his out-of-state bank account and opened a local account. The bank advised him he was free and clear of all outstanding debits and transactions. The buyer's lender pulled his credit for the underwriting process and discovered a significant credit hit which put him out of the lender's minimum limit. When the lender contacted the buyer's former bank, they advised there was an unresolved service charge on the buyer's previous account and they sent this to collections. This of course resulted in a credit score hit on the buyer's tradeline. The former bank did not notify the buyer of this service charge, but elected to send it directly to collections. Once the buyer was notified of this situation, they immediately took care of the service charge. Does the story end there? Not quite. Although the former bank sent the buyer's lender a letter stating the service charge was satisfied, they refused to restore the buyer's credit score, even though they had not previously notified the buyer of this service charge. The bank took the position there is nothing they can do and the credit bureau will not pick up the score correction for another 30 to 60 days.

Although this was certainly a situation wherein the buyer had no control or former knowledge, it does point to the importance of keeping your credit in full check throughout the lending process. When a credit tradeline takes a hit, even a small hit, it can be disasterous. In this particular case, the service charge was small, about $100, but the credit hit was a whopping 70 points! This is significant when buyer's scores are close to the minimal lending limits.

First-Time Home Buyer Tax Credit

2009-08-22T11:21:00.000-07:00

"Bringing the Dream of Homeownership Within Reach

As part of its plan to stimulate the U.S. housing market and address the economic challenges facing our nation, Congress has passed legislation that grants a tax credit of up to $8,000 to first-time home buyers. Here is more information about how the 2009 First-Time Home Buyer Tax Credit can help prospective home buyers become part of the American dream.

Who Qualifies?
First-time home buyers who purchase homes between January 1, 2009 and December 1, 2009. To qualify as a “first-time home buyer” the purchaser or his/her spouse may not have owned a residence during the three years prior to the purchase.

Which Properties Are Eligible?

The 2009 First-Time Home Buyer Tax Credit may be applied to primary residences, including: single-family homes, condos, townhomes, and co-ops.

How Much Will the Credit Be?

The maximum allowable credit for home buyers is $8,000. Each home buyer’s tax credit is determined by two factors: The price of the home—the credit is equal to 10% of the purchase price of the home, up to $8,000. The buyer's income—single buyers with incomes up to $75,000 and married couples with incomes up to $150,000—may receive the maximum tax credit.

If the Buyer(s)’ Income Exceeds These Limits, Can He/She Still Get a Credit?

Yes, some buyers may still be eligible for the credit.The credit decreases for buyers who earn between $75,000 and $95,000 for single buyers and between $150,000 and $170,000 for home buyers filing jointly. The amount of the tax credit decreases as his/her income approaches the maximum limit. Home buyers earning more than the maximum qualifying income—over $95,000 for singles and over $170,000 for couples are not eligible for the credit.

Will the Tax Credit Need to Be Repaid?
No. The buyer does not need to repay the tax credit, if he/she occupies the home for three years or more. However, if the property is sold during the three-year period, the credit will be recouped on the sale."

Realtor.com, Aug 2009

From the Capitol to the Coast

2009-08-19T15:04:00.000-07:00

The Question Continues to Loom. Is this the Right Time to Buy a House?

Now, more than ever, is the perfect time to become part of the American dream of home ownership. Interest rates are at an unheard of low. Conventional 30-year fixed rates are just at or over 5%, the government's stimulus package allows for a $8000 tax credit if you close by the end of November, there is a good resale inventory to select from, there are many foreclosed properties available, and the economy is beginning to take a positive upswing. Can you imagine any better market to be in when looking for a new home?

If you've been sitting on the fence, and you have a good credit rating, and you've been wondering if you should take the plunge, keep this in mind. The only thing you will get by sitting on the fence, you guessed it -- splinters. Always use a REALTOR you trust and take their advise. REALTORS are professionals and adhere to the National Association of Realtor's Code of Ethics. We are trained in every aspect of the home buying experience and we know how to get the job done right, from start to finish.

If you are still undecided, here are some potential indicators to look out for. Each of these indicators, when combined, will begin to diminish your chances of getting in that new home at a bargain basement price and the market will swing back in the seller's favor. The (local) unemployment rate continues to slow and then fall. The National GNP begins to rise, mortgage rates ebb upwards, the resale inventory decreases, and home prices begin to rise. When each of these indicators rides off the plateau, it should be your clue to move off center and make that next step.

Take a look through my website: http://www.delhomefinder.com/. It's chocked full of very helpful information on the links. When you are ready to take that next step, give your local lender a call. The best thing to do is find out how much you qualify for so you and I can focus your home shopping energies in the right direction. After all, there's little sense in shopping for a Mercedes when you might better be suited at a Chevrolet dealer. After that, give me a call or drop me a note at delhomefinder@yahoo.com. I look forward to serving your needs.

Click here to see my latest listings: http://delhomefinder.valuedagent.com/purl/property.htm

Kent and Sussex County Delaware Realty News

2007-11-24T18:48:00.000-08:00

Tom Schoenbeck, REALTOR®
Keller Williams Realty Central DE
1671 S. State Street
Dover, DE 19901

Is This a Good Time to Sell?

Trend Market Report, Nov 24, 2007

While housing starts may be slowing down and almost come to a perceptable halt, the home resale market in Kent County remains strong and vibrant. Since January, the volume of listed homes has reached the $975 million mark with a current annual closing level reaching $380 million, a 38% settlement rate. In a nationwide 'buyer's market' this is a tremendous achievement and hedging ever closer to a 50-50 market balance. There are currently in excess of 1500 properties on the market in Kent County with an inventory volume of $437 million, for an average of $283,000 per listing.

If you are currently selling your home, you are in a great market as long as you have your home "in the market" not just on the market. Where you want to be is in that achieveable range of being in the market. Generally speaking, only about 20 to 30% of the homes being sold get sold within 6 months. And why? They are marketed by professionals like those at Keller Williams Realty who work with clients that listen to their advise. The number one reason for a home sitting dormant on the market is, you guessed it- price. If your home is listed for too high a price for the comparables, it's a sure bet your home will sit there with no offers and quite possibly, no showings. If your home is in this category, call your agent and reverse this trend. Remember, you may believe your home is worth a fortune, but you are not the one buying it. Ultimately, your home is only worth what the market will bear, and your immediate market is the buyer you hand your keys to at settlement. Cut the emotional ties and role up your sleeves. Approach your home sale like a business venture, listen to your agent, and get it sold!

web at: http://www.delhomefinder.com/
e.mail: delhomefinder@yahoo.com