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What to Ignore While House Hunting

Wednesday, January 29, 2025
by Tucker Robbins


You’ve given your agent all the must-haves for your future home, and they’ve combed through listings, and have found some houses for you to tour. You’ve got your hopes up as you walk through every door, but you need to keep in mind that not every house on the list will be move-in ready.  Don’t turn your back on them, though.  Read on to see what’s best ignored while on the hunt for a new home. 

 

  • Age of the house isn’t a factor if the house is structurally sound.  Just be certain to ask about updates or add-ons, and any other factors that could be problems with an older home. 
     

  • Poorly maintained curb appeal can be a turn-off as soon as you drive up, but if the house is great, the landscaping can be taken care of with a little hard work, new front door and mailbox, and a few pots of plants. 
     

  • Unattractive Paint/Wallpaper Walking into some can be like walking into a time capsule when you see a mauve living room, or a bathroom with swans adorning the wallpaper. A gallon of paint can take care of the ugly.  Focus on the structure of the walls, and check for cracks or holes.   
     

  • Dirty carpets can be a negotiating point when you make an offer on the house.  Sometimes the seller is willing to give credit for replacing the carpet or may change it out themselves.  Do, however, lift the corners of the carpet to see if it’s covering hardwood. 
     

  • Smells like cigarette smoke and animal odors can be a turn off but remember that a thorough cleaning and airing-out is what it takes to freshen up a house.  Moldy smells shouldn’t be ignored, however. 
     

  • Remember that many people that have an extra bedroom set it up as an office or use what's listed as a dining room for a sitting area.  Don’t let that keep you from imagining a sleek new dining room suite for entertaining, or the much-needed third bedroom for your growing family. 
     

  • The current owner’s decor may not be your style at all, but you’re not buying their furniture!  Simply take note of the general layout and size of each room to determine if the house will work for your needs. 

 

You will probably be surprised when you walk into some houses that haven’t been redecorated in thirty years, or that have a guest room functioning as a museum for their snow globe collection!  Have faith in the houses your agent finds, as they understand your needs, and know that some homes only need your touch to make it yours! 

 

Courtesy of New Castle County DE Realtor Tucker Robbins. 

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Seven Simple Changes to Improve Home Safety for Seniors

Wednesday, January 22, 2025
by Tucker Robbins

Many seniors plan to live at home for as long as it is physically possible. Unless a major transformation needs to be made, most changes are simple. The following seven modifications are easy DIY jobs everyone in the family can take care of over a weekend:

  • Replace all doorknobs with lever-style handles so that those with arthritis or other motor skill problems can open doors easily.
  • Install anti-skid treads to ramps and steps to minimize slipping.
  • To reduce the danger of falls, area rugs can be secured with non-slip rug padding or double-sided carpet tape.
  • If a total bathroom remodel is not affordable, installing grab-bars to the shower, bath, and toilet area walls will offer security for moving around in a slippery bathroom.
  • Change faucets in the kitchen and bath to single lever handles or install motion-sensor or touch-activated units for ease of use.
  • Outdoor lighting is essential for everyone’s safety, and there are many options for adding low-voltage and solar-powered lights to posts along ramps and atop porch rails, as well as pathway lighting.
  • Electrical issues to consider - light switches that can be pressed for turning off and on, electrical outlets placed higher than the standard height and adding more interior lighting.

This handy publication from AARP contains great ideas to assist with setting your loved one up for independent living. Hopefully you and your much-loved senior will look at this stage of life not as a challenge, but rather as a way to keep a distant–but watchful–eye over them while they maintain their sense of independence and quality of life.

Courtesy of New Castle County DE Realtor Tucker Robbins. 

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Thinking About Downsizing Your Wilmington DE Home?

Wednesday, January 15, 2025
by Tucker Robbins


When your children are grown-and-flown, or your retirement is on the horizon, it is time for some decisions to be made.  Do you still need all the space you currently own? Do you dream of selling your home and traveling the world? No matter what your reasons are for downsizing, let these tips help smooth the process: 

 

  • Jot down your ideas, and talk with family and/or friends, share your thoughts, and have some of them help you start a Downsize Plan.  
     

  • Think practically before you finalize your decision: 

  • - Do you want to stay in the general area you are currently in or do you want to move across the country? Compare your home’s value to the locations you are interested in, making certain it is financially wise to relocate there. Even a move across town to another neighborhood could cost more in the long run.
     

  • - Maybe you have dreamed of traveling, and RV-living is more to your liking. If you think this is what you want, it may be a good idea to rent a travel vehicle for a long trip before you make a costly purchase, just to get an idea of RV life. 
     

  • - Are you tired of maintaining the yard and exterior of your home? Maybe a condo or townhome is right for you. 
     

  • If you decide to sell and move to a smaller home, the first step of the moving process is going through your belongings. Sixty&Me.com has some extreme but practical advice to help you start this emotional task. 
     

  • Do your children still have belongings stored in your attic or spare room? Have them pick a date to come over and go through them. They need to be aware that this is their last chance to have their things donated, thrown away, or keep them. Otherwise, you will be making those decisions. 
     

  • With a lifetime of “stuff,” it may simply be impossible to begin the first step on your own, and this is where a pro may help. Professional organizers do not only clean up closets, there are those who specialize in home clean-outs and downsizing.  
     

  • A smaller house means less space for your furniture. Find out if any family members want the pieces you will not take with you or get ready to sell or donate your pieces. Some thrift stores will refurbish the items, and domestic violence or homeless shelters can always use practical pieces in good condition. 
     

  • Once you finalize your decision, get in touch with a real estate agent. They will not only help you sell your home for the best price, but they can also assist with finding your new home! 

 

If you are getting ready for retirement or dreading the thought of the last child leaving home, downsizing can be something to look forward to--a new beginning! Whether you decide to travel the world or settle in a houseboat, your Realtor® will help you through selling your nest, every step of the way. 

 

Courtesy of New Castle County DE Realtors Tucker Robbins. 

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Save on Heating Your New Castle County DE Home!

Wednesday, January 8, 2025
by Tucker Robbins


Turning the heat on is such a simple thing these days, usually the flick of a switch, or just a tap on our thermostats.  Heating costs are something we need to be mindful of, much like our air conditioning in the summer.  Let’s look at these ten ways we can save while staying warm: 

 

  • - Have your heating unit serviced by a reputable service company.  They can go over your unit thoroughly and make certain it’s ready for Winter. 
     

  • - Central heating units use the intake filter just like the AC.  Check it monthly and replace when covered with dirt and dust.  Your system will run more efficiently.
     

  • - If you use propane, ask your provider if they will lock in the price per gallon if you pay up front for the season.  This can keep you from being hit with a surprise when your tank needs filling, and the price has unexpectedly risen. 
     

  • - Get an energy audit performed on your home. Find a professional to do this assessment, and you’ll be able to see what you can do to your home to keep the heat in and the cold out.
     

  • - Check for cracks around doors and windows, and if possible, fill with spray insulation, which can be purchased by the can at home centers. 
     

  • - Install a smart or programmable thermostat and use the feature religiously!  There’s no reason to keep the temps inside your home on the tropical level if no one is there.   
     

  • - When you are home, keep the temps low, and wear layered clothing.  Just turning the thermostat down a few degrees can make a big difference in costs. 
     

  • - Just because it’s cold, doesn’t mean you have to turn the ceiling fan off.  Flip the toggle switch on the side so your fan is turning clockwise and keep the fan on low--it pulls the cooler air up and moves the warm air away from the ceiling. 
     

  • - Use cooking and baking to your advantage:  once the oven is turned off, if it’s safe for other family members, leave the door cracked open and use that heat to warm up the space! 
     

  • - Upgrading your furnace is a big expense, but if yours is more than fifteen years old, it may save money in the long run to have a new unit installed. 

 

During these cold months, keep a check on elderly family members and neighbors.  If they need some help weatherizing things, organize a day where you and other volunteers can help them save money and stay warm.  If you know of someone who is struggling to pay for heating, contact your local health and human services, as there are programs through power companies and local government agencies to help them pay for their heating source.
 

Courtesy of New Castle County DE Realtors Tucker Robbins.

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Homeowner New Year Resolutions for 2025

Thursday, January 2, 2025
by Tucker Robbins

Our resolutions for the new year normally focus on eating healthier, losing weight, kicking dirty habits--the list goes on. Sadly, by the end of February, we find ourselves just trying to remember what our resolutions were, much less sticking to them! Homeownership can be the same way; we start out with good intentions and fall short. While the next seven items are not everything a homeowner needs to keep up with, they are easy to do!

  • Keep the yard in tip-top shape year-round with these tips from The Family Handyman.
     
  • Resolve to cut the clutter in your house one room per week.
     
  • Repair the little things that are not necessarily safety issues: door knobs that are not working, dripping faucets, or squeaky floors. Letting the little things go can cause bigger problems and may cost more later.
     
  • Having an energy audit performed on your house can save energy and money. Many power companies offer this service free; check with your provider for more information.
     
  • Home security systems are not foolproof against hackers, nor are smart home accessories. Change passwords frequently, and do not reuse passwords. Make it even more difficult to breach by using two-factor authentication.
     
  • Get those finances in order! Commit to saving money, not only in the literal sense, but get the best rates on insurance, or consider refinancing your mortgage. NerdWallet has some great tips for building equity in your home.
     
  • Print out this free home checklist so that season by season, nothing is overlooked!

Find a good balance between spending time on home maintenance and caring for yourself and your family. Some projects incorporate the whole family, such as a big cleaning job or yard work. As important as it is to keep up your home, it is important to keep up with family.

Courtesy of New Castle County DE Realtors Tucker Robbins. 

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Hacks for Holiday Décor Storage

Thursday, December 26, 2024
by Tucker Robbins


It is an exciting day (or week, in some cases!) when the holiday decorations are brought out of storage, dusted and fluffed, then set up to make the darkest days of the year merry and bright. Reversing the process is not always as fun, especially if there were problems with light strings, broken ornaments, or flattened faux greenery. How can we store these items while keeping them safe from breakage and possible ruin? Maybe these ideas will help remedy that situation: 

 

  • The very thought of storing strings of tiny lights can send us running away! Many stores carry plastic reels to wrap lights around as well as companion containers. It is also possible to store the lights in the exact way they shipped from the factory, and all that is needed is a zip tie. This video shows you this simple storage tip.
     

  • To keep decorations and greenery from being flattened, store artificial wreaths in a hanging position from hooks; just be sure to cover them with a plastic trash bag to keep them from getting dusty. 
     

  • If the storage area has enough space, store artificial trees standing up. Rolls of shipping plastic can be wrapped around the tree from top to bottom to keep it dust-free or use contractor trash bags to cover the tree. Otherwise, keep the original container, and store it as close to the original packing as possible. Use zipper storage bags for any loose pieces. 
     

  • Unused or old suitcases are perfect for ornaments or odd knick-knacks. If at all possible, keep the original packaging, and your treasured items will be safe and snug no matter what container they are in. 
     

  • Bows are expensive and keeping them fluffy and new-looking can be a challenge. Use a coat hanger to attach them to, and store them hanging with a plastic garment or trash bag to cover. If you fear that heat will cause them to sag, stuff bow loops with balled-up wrapping paper that would have otherwise been tossed. 
     

  • Artificial garlands do very well coiled up in 55-gallon garbage cans. 
     

  • Precious ornaments--especially those made by the kids out of natural materials--should be placed in zipper storage bags, then stored in the unused cookie tins. That is a double storage win! 
     

  • Visit your local grocery’s produce manager and ask for covered apple and orange shipping boxes, as they are quite sturdy.  Many of them come with indented trays as well as moisture-wicking padding, making them perfect for storing treasured holiday items.  

 

Sure, there are plenty of specialty storage containers for most of your holiday decorations, but they usually come with a specialty price tag. The safety of your stored treasures depends on how well you pack them and put them away, not on how much you paid for a specialized storage container.  

 

Courtesy of New Castle County DE Realtors Tucker Robbins. 

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Gift Ideas for the New Homeowner

Wednesday, December 18, 2024
by Tucker Robbins


A friend or family member has bought their first home, and they realize that there are a few items that would really come in handy for projects, homekeeping, maintenance or yardwork. There may even be a few things they don’t necessarily need, but would be fun to have.  Here are some gifts ideas that go from practical to over-the-top:

Practical Gifts

  • Well-stocked tool kit or tool box
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Long-lasting LED lightbulbs
  • Home maintenance diary
  • Portable generator
  • Drywall repair kit
  • Lawnmower
  • Garden tools
  • Rain barrel
  • Picture hanging kit
  • Address numbers or display plaque

Smart Home Gadgets

  • Video peephole viewer
  • Voice controlled home assistant (Amazon echo, Google Home)
  • Smart locks
  • Learning/smart thermostat
  • Climate Manager
  • TV streaming stick and video subscription
  • Robot vacuum cleaner
  • Amazon Prime for a year

Something More Personal

A Little Extravagant

  • Digital canvas
  • Pest control for a year
  • Hands-free paper towel dispenser
  • Robot lawn mower
  • Voice activated grocery list maker
  • Home warranty for a year
  • Local interior design consultation
  • Drawing, painting or edited photo of new home

Owning a home for the first time can be a bit overwhelming with all of the new costs. The perfect time to give a new homebuyer something they can use, something they want, or something completely unnecessary is now!

Courtesy of New Castle County DE Realtor Tucker Robbins. 

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Fun December Activities

Wednesday, December 11, 2024
by Tucker Robbins

The best thing about the holidays in December is getting together with family and friends.  Adults and children alike can enjoy most of these activities:

  • Cookie swap:  This is a gathering that benefits everyone.  Invite several friends who will choose a cookie recipe to pre-bake, and bring the batch to a central location.  Sample the treats, with cocoa or coffee, and have packaging available so attendees can take home small batches of their favorites.
     
  • Ugly Sweater Crafts:  Instead of wearing an ugly Christmas sweater, use it to make a stocking, pillow, or small ornaments.  Have invitees bring one snack or drink each so you won’t have to worry about a lot of food prep. Get inspiration from these ideas from Better Homes and Garden’s website.
     
  • Hanukkah Cupcake party:  Each party goer bakes a dozen cupcakes, and brings them unfrosted to the party.  Have frosting, frosting bags and tips, sprinkles and candies available, and everyone gets to dress up their cupcakes themselves.  Swap them out so they can take home a variety.
     
  • Kids Christmas ornament party:  purchase clear shatterproof ornaments specifically for filling and have artificial snow, small toys, artificial greenery--anything small enough to fit in the ornament-- along with ribbon, craft paints, and stickers, and have them create their own ornament.  Use adult supervision with very small children, or if using adhesives, especially hot glue.
     
  • Gingerbread house decorating:  Lucky guests get to make and take their own cookie house!  This can be a simple venture with a gingerbread house kit, or using graham crackers, candies and royal icing, or more advanced with home-baked gingerbread cookies and decorations. This is another fun activity for the children as well as the adults.
     
  • Dreidel craft:  Have the kids come over and make dreidels from craft kits or from modeling clay, skewers cut into 2” lengths and blue markers.  There are also many  inexpensive paper kits available on etsy. After the dreidels are finished, have some gelt ready, and host a spin-off tournament with prizes!
     
  • Kalah game for Kwanzaa:  This is something kids will enjoy.  Cut the lid off an egg carton, then cut the lid in half.  Tape each half to the end of the bottom of the egg carton to form a tray.  Using 36 pebbles, dry beans, or pasta, play the game of kalah.

For these casual get-togethers, send invitations via email, create an event on social media and invite friends, or use an online website to help--evite can help you design a free e-invitation, and can help you track RSVP’s. Add snacks, a cocoa or coffee bar, and make it merry!

Courtesy of New Castle County DE Realtor Tucker Robbins.   

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Childproofing for Guests

Wednesday, December 4, 2024
by Tucker Robbins


It’s the visiting time of year, and some of your guests will likely be bringing little ones with them.  If your home is now child-free, you may not be aware of possible hazards for little ones.  Get your home ready for them with these tips: 
 

  • - In the case that you don’t have cabinet locks and cleaning supplies are easily accessed, go ahead and place them all in a small cleaning bucket or basket so you can just grab them and put them out of reach when or before guests arrive. 
     

  • - The kitchen is usually the hub when company comes, so keep little ones from under foot by putting some interactive magnets on the fridge door--there are some pretty nifty learning-type magnets available, as well as the traditional alphabet letters. 
     

  • - If you have candles burning, make sure they are far from the reach of any age child, and in a prominent place so that they’re always in sight of you or another adult. 
     

  • - Check blinds and drapes for long cords--either drape them over the tops of the blinds or purchase cord holders to keep them up and out of reach. 
     

  • - For homes with stairs, purchase or borrow a latching safety gate to prevent little ones from wandering up the steps. 
     

  • - Ask everyone to keep the toilet lid down, or close the bathroom door when they go in and out.  If you ask them, they’ll be more conscious of it, and oblige. 
     

  • - In case you have a cozy fire burning, at least have a screen set up in front of the fireplace door as a barrier in case a little one stumbles while they’re walking nearby. 
     

  • - Houseplants can be tempting to a little explorer, but some plants can make us sick if ingested.  Do a bit of research, and if yours are in that category, give them a temporary home out of the way. 
     

  • - Keep an eye on yard sales or thrift stores for age-appropriate toys and games in good condition.  Clean them up, and place them in a basket or on a game table in the living area; kids love “new” toys. 
     

  • - Have someone get down on all fours on the floor and look for hazardous things that could be interesting to a child, and make the temporary changes you need to so your littlest guests will be safe. 

 

Enjoying the holidays means enjoying your guests, and not worrying if the youngest ones are getting into something you don’t want them to, or something potentially dangerous.  Your visitors will appreciate the extra effort it took to keep their children safe and entertained, making their visit more memorable.


Courtesy of New Castle County DE Realtor Tucker Robbins.   

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Things to Know About Purchasing a Foreclosure

Wednesday, November 13, 2024
by Tucker Robbins

Many people turn to the “Foreclosures” section of online house hunts or newspaper ads. Sure, the price is a bargain, but there is normally a different process when purchasing a home that is in foreclosure. Consider these tips before heading to the auction or making an offer:

  • If the property is on the auction block, the bidder will likely need the full purchase amount in cash. The lender is looking to recoup as much from the defaulted loan as possible, which does not allow time for the financing process.
     
  • Most foreclosures have been unoccupied and will be affected by that. The new owner will need to be ready to put in some work and cash to bring it up to code/living conditions.
     
  • Some states allow redemption to the homeowner, and HUD defines this as “...a period after [the] home has already been sold at a foreclosure sale when [a homeowner] can still reclaim [their] home.”
     
  • Because a foreclosed property is sold “as is,” the buyer will not receive any disclosures, meaning, a home inspection is a must!  Depending on who owns the property will make a difference in how much time the buyer has to complete the inspection. 
     
  • On the other hand, if the property is REO (real estate owned), the buyer will be able to go through the home-buying process in the usual way and have time to secure financing for the purchase.
     
  • An REO will be sold as-is just like an auctioned property, and all repairs will have to be done by the new owner--there are no repair requests or contingencies granted.
     
  • For buyers who are new to the foreclosure-purchase game, going through a bank to buy the property is their best bet versus bidding at an auction.
     
  • For distressed properties, it is recommended that the interested party have a title search performed. Buying a foreclosure takes long enough, and this will help remove any roadblocks.

For foreclosure-hunting convenience, realtor.com® has a search page specifically for foreclosures! Municipality offices also publish notices on tax foreclosures, and if the funding is available, pre-foreclosures and short sales are other great property bargains. Remember to contact a Realtor® that is experienced in distressed sales. Their knowledge and expertise can make a drawn-out process go smoothly!

Courtesy of New Castle County DE Realtor Tucker Robbins.   

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Tucker Robbins
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices
3838 Kennett Pike
Wilmington DE 19807
(302) 777-7744 (direct)
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