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In-Law Suites

Wednesday, September 25, 2024
by Tucker Robbins


For many families in the United States, it has become the norm for more than two generations to live under one roof as aging parents move in with their adult children. Not every house has the extra room, nor do mostly independent seniors care to downsize and live in one room with a half bath. While there are a few different solutions to the issue, there are many things to consider. 

 

  • - First and foremost, questions need to be answered: Is it possible to sell both homes and purchase one larger one? Are the in-laws simply wanting two rooms and a bathroom to themselves? Will the older parents sell their home and pay for an in-law suite to be built onto their adult children’s home? 
     

  • - Another solution could be that the older generation has the largest house, and the younger family could relocate. Again, everyone needs to be put into consideration, as this could uproot school-aged children, and even take the working adults further away from their jobs. 
     

  • - If a new house hunt begins, look for houses that have the potential to create a small apartment in the existing rooms, or have space to add an in-law suite. Another option is a duplex, so parents that are still independent can keep their own house, but have the family just a few steps away, just in case. 
     

  • - Building an addition onto any home requires some investigation to make certain your municipality will allow it, as it will almost be a separate dwelling. 
     

  • Some of the needs and wants in an in-law suite include: 

  • - separate entry/locked entry from “other” dwelling 

  • - first-floor accommodations 

  • - full bathroom 

  • - kitchen essentials, as zoning codes allow 

  • - sitting room separate from sleeping area 

  • - wide doorways, no-slip flooring, handrails in appropriate areas
     

  • - A garage, underused attic, or basement can be easily converted to a small apartment-like dwelling. Just make sure there is adequate natural lighting, as all of these can be dark spaces. Where lots of windows are not an option, adding skylights take care of letting some sunshine in.
     

  • - One more option is building a cottage-type building on the property, as regulations allow.   

 

While finances are likely the number one factor for making the major decisions, family dynamics are another factor in this new living situation. Every family is different, and while some want their privacy and ask others to knock before coming into their “house,” some families will have an open-door policy, sharing meals and housework equally, and have their own little commune. No matter what the accommodations will be, communication is key to making certain a multi-generational home is for the best, as well as successful. 

 

Courtesy of New Castle County DE Realtor Tucker Robbins.  

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Winterizing Your Pool

Wednesday, September 18, 2024
by Tucker Robbins


A backyard pool used to be a luxury.  Thanks to modern technology and lower prices, a swimming pool is a common sight.  Properly winterizing a swimming pool may take a few hours, but it’s worth taking care of your investment. 

 

In-Ground Pool 

  • 1. Remove any toys and floats, and clean all debris from the pool, skimmer and pump basket.   
     

  • 2. Remove ladders or other equipment.  If the ladders aren’t removable, you’ll have to cut your cover to fit.  This may negate the warranty, so check the label and cover instructions before you cut. 
     

  • 3. Test your water, and add the proper chemicals for your pool’s size. Check labels on packaging for proper mixing and distribution instructions.   
     

  • 4. Backwash the pump, and blow out the pipes according to manufacturer’s directions. 
     

  • 5. Lay your cover out on one long side of the pool, and place empty water tube weights in their loop holders.  Fill the tubes completely.   
     

  • 6. After the tubes are in place on one side, you may need the help of another person to pull the cover corners across the width of the pool.  Add water tubes to the remaining sides and fill. 
     

  • 7. If you invest in a leaf net, it will save the main pool cover from damage from rotting leaves, plus save your from extra cleaning when it’s time to open the pool again.  Put the leaf net in place over the cover and attach according to manufacturer’s instructions.   

  • 8. Once you are finished, walk around the pool to assure your cover is secure, and the pool surface is completely covered. 

 

Above Ground Pool 

  • 1. Follow the first three tips for in-ground pool winterizing. 
     

  • 2. Disconnect hoses, and drain the pump.  
     

  • 3. Draining a certain amount of water from the pool to protect the skimmer from cracking or breaking is an important step, but a winter skimmer plate installed over your skimmer can help you skip this step.  Drain the skimmer hose completely if you use a skimmer plate. 
     

  • 4. Fill the air pillow completely, and place it in the pool. 
     

  • 5. Pull the cover across the pool and air pillow. 
     

  • 6. Depending on whether there is a deck around your pool will determine what you need to secure the cover: if there’s a deck, use water tubes; use cover clips if your pool is deck-free. 
     

  • 7. Once you are finished, walk around the pool to assure your cover is secure, and the pool surface is completely covered. 
     

There are downloadable/printable resources with specific step-by-step instructions for all kinds of pool care.  Undertaking this task can save money, but if you are unsure of what you’re doing, or don’t have time, call your local pool maintenance team to winterize for you. You want your Summer pool opening as problem-free as possible when hot weather arrives. 

 

Courtesy of New Castle County DE Realtor Tucker Robbins.   

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Credit Card Mistakes You Might Be Making

Wednesday, September 11, 2024
by Tucker Robbins


There are practical uses for credit cards, such as rewards points, cash back on purchases, and airline miles to name a few.  Having a credit card can also have drawbacks if you’re not responsible with that piece of plastic.  Read on to see if you’re making any of these mistakes… 

 

  • Paying the minimum payment every month keeps your credit score in check, but the interest added to the balance can make a negative impact on your credit.  Pay as much as you can afford over the minimum billed amount, or, better yet, pay off the balance each month. 
     

  • Late payments not only damage your credit, but if you’re sending it late every month, the late fees and interest on the balance will max that credit card out, and it could take years to pay it off.  Set up an auto-pay plan or mail your payment a week in advance of the due date. 
     

  • Spending just to receive rewards is a good way to get you into credit trouble!  Sure, those rewards are great, but they’re usually a small percentage of your purchases.  The added interest will be far more than any rewards you’re seeking and will cost much more in the end.
     

  • Cash advances may seem like help, but the interest on them starts as soon as that money is in your hand, and there are usually extra fees involved.  Cash advances are essentially cash loans and are treated as such.  Beware of “convenience” checks your card company offers to you because they are cash advances in disguise. 
     

  • Maxing out your balance, or worse, spending over your credit limit, is a good way to reduce your credit score.  The over-balance fees are tremendous, and not having any available credit left on the card will affect the credit utilization ratio. 
     

  • Tossing your statement without reading it can cause you to miss important announcements from the company, as well as fraudulent activity, or changes in your minimum payment due. 
     

  • Using your credit card at the grocery store or to pay utility bills will help in an urgent situation, but only if you can pay the full balance at the end of the month.  If you’re using a credit card for everyday purchases, it’s time to get your finances under control. 

 

Don’t let mistakes cost you money and a good credit rating!  Keep your balance less than 30% of your credit limit, maintain a manageable monthly payment, and your credit report will benefit.  Credit cards are good tools to use to build credit or keep your score high, but only if used wisely.   

 

Courtesy of New Castle County DE Realtor Tucker Robbins.   

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Get These Fall Jobs Done

Wednesday, September 4, 2024
by Tucker Robbins


The weather is cooler, but the days are still long enough to get some regular Fall maintenance done.  Get your home prepped for cooler weather now so it won’t be a problem later.   

 

  • - Clean gutters before the leaves fall so they won’t get clogged.  Consider installing some gutter protectors so the coming leaf drop won’t cause further problems. 
     

  • - Raking leaves is a job many don’t care for, but if you do, and plan on burning them, check with your local government offices or HOA guidelines to make certain it’s allowed.  If not, it’s best to bag them for curbside pick-up, or find a gardening neighbor that would appreciate the extra composting material. 
     

  • - After you’ve mowed and raked one last time, fertilize the lawn.  The roots are still active, and the extra nutrients will help the grass overwinter safely. 
     

  • - Speaking of using the lawnmower one last time, drain the fuel and oil from gas-powered equipment, and clean them well.  This Old House offers some excellent tips on putting up the lawn mower for Winter. 
     

  • - Give the roof a good look and replace broken or missing shingles. 
     

  • - Check windows and doors--inside and out--for drafts and apply weather-stripping or caulking where it’s needed.  Today’s Homeowner has a video that shows us how to apply caulk around our windows. 
     

  • - Call your HVAC serviceperson, and have the heater checked and serviced, if necessary.  Go ahead and make sure your filters are new--buying them in bulk keeps you from having to remember to get one every couple of months and saves you money. 
     

  • - If you use wood for heating, hopefully it’s already cut and seasoned.  Store it at least 30 feet from the house, covered, unless you bring it in a few days before you burn it. 
     

  • - Turn off your sprinkler system timer, shut water off at the main, and drain the system. If you’re not able to drain it yourself, it may be worth the money to hire a pro to blow the pipes out and drain the sprinkler heads. 

 

It may take a couple of weekends to get all of these done, but all are important to do, and hopefully save you from a headache and spending a lot of money later in the Winter.  Some of these chores could be done by a teenager looking to earn a few extra dollars, and they can learn something in the process. You’re never too young to learn about taking care of your home.

 

Courtesy of New Castle County DE Realtor Tucker Robbins.   

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Emergency Home Generator Basics

Wednesday, August 28, 2024
by Tucker Robbins


Advertisements for full-house generators make you wonder if you really should invest in one, despite the high cost.  Having your home in full power during an emergency would be a comfort, but are they worth it?  There are less costly options out there, but only you can decide what’s best for your home and family. 

 

Portable Power 

  • - Portable generators are great for providing electricity to essentials:  lamps, refrigerators, freezers, fans or plug-in heaters. 

  • - Most are fueled by gasoline, and the tank must be filled as it runs, so there is a bit of labor involved.   

  • - The engines on portable generators are noisy (think lawn mower noise).   

  • - Generators that run via a solar panel are available, and the technology is getting better, but the initial cost is higher.  Keep in mind that you’ll save on fuel expenses in the end. 

  • - Prices vary with how many kilowatts you’ll need, and your budget should include enough for appropriate extension cords for each device you plan on connecting to the generator. 

 

Stand-By Energy 

  • - In order to provide power to everything in the house, including HVAC, a stand-by whole house generator is the best choice, as it will be connected to your home’s electrical system. 

  • - A stand-by system can be fueled with natural gas, propane or diesel fuel.  These types of units run more quietly than the portables and are fuel efficient. 

  • - Whole house units will cost the most, as they are ready to go almost the instant you lose utility power, require professional installation, and possibly local permits.   

  • - Installation should be done by a certified electrician, and some offer a package deal that includes the unit and installation in one price. 

 

Whatever type of generator you choose, get the size and type of generator that meets your needs, not exceeds them. There’s no need to waste money!  If you’re unsure of  just how much energy you’ll need, ask-the-electrician.com has some helpful information as well as a sizing  calculator.  Though you’ll only need it during emergencies, you want to know that you’ve made the right choice for your home, your needs, and your wallet. 

 

Courtesy of New Castle County DE Realtor Tucker Robbins.   

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Handling Difficult Situations with Your Neighbors

Wednesday, August 21, 2024
by Tucker Robbins


Sometimes, your dream neighborhood becomes less so when the neighbors are not the best. Introducing yourself or inviting everyone for a meet-and-greet after moving in is one way to start off on the right foot. Putting names to faces can help handle disputes later. When the going gets tough, however, follow these tips: 

 

  • When you have a legitimate problem, such as noise at inconvenient hours, or someone’s car frequently blocking your driveway, speak to your neighbor in person about it. Kindly tell them your concerns and ask if there is anything, they can do to help you. If they need help to remedy the situation, offer assistance. 
     

  • Trees and other plants can cause discord between neighbors.  Unless the tree branches are diseased or hanging over your roof, the best solution may just be to leave them alone--extreme tree-trimming can cause more harm than good. 
     

  • Yards that are not mowed often, if ever, can be more than an eyesore, thanks to hiding critters.  If there is a way to discreetly find out why the homeowner is unable to keep up the yard, do so, then recruit other neighbors and offer to take care of their yard.  Sometimes, sharing city codes with the neighbor will encourage them to clean up to avoid fines.   
     

  • Noise, from you as well as your neighbor, can be absorbed by fences, a water feature, or plants that are at least six feet tall.  If the noise is truly interruptive, share your concerns with the offending neighbor, and try to compromise or come up with a solution that suits both of you. 
     

  • On the same token, when someone from next door approaches you with a concern of their own, no matter their demeanor, do your best to handle it with grace, and without becoming defensive and angry. Arguing will get nothing solved. 

 

Once the initial meeting is over, and the problem is not solved satisfactorily, taking further action may be necessary. Depending on the issue, contacting another community member or a letter to the HOA board may get results. In case of violated ordinances, a phone call to the town office may be in order, and for illegal activity, keep your observations written down and report them to authorities. Because you all live together, most neighbors want to make things right. Just remember in most situations, communication is key. 


Courtesy of New Castle County DE Realtor Tucker Robbins.  

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Breaking the Rules of Decorating

Wednesday, August 14, 2024
by Tucker Robbins

Decorating is the most personal way to express yourself in your home, and sometimes, when you want to try something different--something that doesn’t seem to fit anywhere on the list of design rules--it may be tempting to go with the flow, despite what you want to do.  Get design-rebellious with these tips: 

 

Color 

  • - Small room?  It doesn’t have to be a neutral color!  Go bold but create balance with open shelving or smaller furnishings. 

  • - We’re told not to stick with one color in a room, but going monochrome creates a bold, dramatic statement. 

  • - Your ceilings can be considered another wall when it comes to color.  Just remember to keep the walls a neutral color and get samples to paint on the ceiling before you commit to it. 

  • - Trim doesn’t have to be white!  Use high-gloss black for drama, stain that complements wood flooring, or neutrals for a modern twist on a traditional look. 

 

Finishes 

  • - If the metal finish on your kitchen light fixture doesn’t match the drawer pulls, it’s fine!  Mixing metals is perfectly acceptable, and check out this article from the Invaluable blog for inspiration! 

  • - Wood finishes don’t have to be the same throughout the house; create dimension with different stain colors, adding depth to a room or the whole house. 

  • - Who said tile is only for kitchens and bathrooms? Create an accent wall with tile in any room.  Be inspired by using the HGTV photo library search for whatever room you have in mind and add “wile tall” to the search term.   

  • - Speaking of kitchen tile, why not use wallpaper for your backsplash?  Protect it from splashes and oils with mounted plexiglass or a sealant made especially for sealing wallpaper. 

 

Furnishings and Accessories 

  • - Furniture stores have us fooled into thinking that our furniture sets must match, and this logic applies to even pieces like dining chairs. Mixing styles adds interest. 

  • - Mixing more than two patterns can be scary, so start small with accessories in bold patterns that are easily changed.  Staying in the same color family with your patterns will made this decision less daunting. 

  • - If you’d like to add some natural pieces to your space but don’t have a green thumb, then don’t be ashamed to use artificial plants!   

  • - It’s tempting to just scoot furniture to the wall and leave it because you want to follow symmetry.  Go diagonal!  Check out the difference a rearrangement can make by placing the sofa at a slant and give it a try in your living room! 

 

Not all rules of design should be broken, and there are likely rules that tell us why going against the norm with our personal decorating has a great result.  If you want to do something different, try it--you may like it! 

 

Courtesy of New Castle County DE Realtor Tucker Robbins. 

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Getting the Best Home Inspection in New Castle County DE

Wednesday, August 7, 2024
by Tucker Robbins


Whether your offer on an older home has been accepted, or you’re buying brand-new construction, it’s highly recommended that you have the house inspected.  Yes, it’s an added expense to the home-buying process, but it could save you money and heartache in the end.  Get the most out of the inspection by following these tips: 

 

  • - Ask your RealtorⓇ for a list of qualified inspectors in the area.  Be sure to check reviews, and ask other recent home buyers for recommendations. 

  • - Call at least three different inspectors for price, experience, and whether your state requires a license and bonding or not, ask about these anyway.  A top certification they could have is one by ASHI (American Society of Home Inspectors). 

  • - Once you choose an inspector, choose a date for the inspection when you can accompany them.  If they have a problem with you being there, find another inspector. 

  • - Ask the seller if you can go in the house on your own before the official inspection to get an idea of the condition of the property for your own satisfaction.  Popular Mechanics offers a thorough list of things to look for in your new prospective home. 

  • - While you’re in the house, look for cosmetic things like paint and patching that could be covering bigger issues. 

  • - The inspector will have a process of their own, complete with checklist, but make one for yourself so you can have a record of your own for issues they show you as you walk through the house. 

  • - Don’t be afraid to ask questions during the inspection--a reputable inspector welcomes questions, plus, you’re paying them for their knowledge.  Getting answers before you get their final report will help you understand it better. 

  • - If you’re not quite sure of how to change the hot water heater temperature, how to work the circuit breaker box, or where the water shut-off is, the inspector can help you become more familiar and knowledgeable about the house.  Use your smartphone to take photos and video as they give you a how-to lesson, so you’ll have it in case you need it. 

 

Once you get your report, go over it carefully.  If there are major repairs that need to be made, ask the seller to make the repairs or offer you a credit or reduction in selling price.  Being as knowledgeable as you can be during this process can mean more money saved.  Just be sure to hire a good inspector, and stay involved in the process. 

Courtesy of New Castle County DE Realtor Tucker Robbins.  

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Cleaning Before Closing

Wednesday, July 31, 2024
by Tucker Robbins

Getting your home ready to sell requires thorough cleaning and decluttering, but once your belongings are packed and ready to move for the new owners to move in, you may see things that were hidden by furniture and other items. While most contracts state that the home should be “broom clean” at the time of closing, some extra cleaning will be necessary.

  • Once the walls of every room are bare, use a vacuum, flat duster, or sweep mop to go over all of the walls, permanent fixtures, and ceilings. Wipe the walls and ceilings down with mild cleaner and water, and a flat mop is a great tool to make this work go quickly and efficiently.
  • Vacuum all drawers and cabinet interiors, then wipe down with a mild cleaner and allow to dry before closing.
  • Ceiling fans and light fixtures should be turned off, dusted, and wiped down thoroughly.
  • Clean and disinfect bathrooms and kitchens from top to bottom.
  • Move appliances to clean beneath and behind them, and ensure interior surfaces are completely clean.
  • Have your agent reach out to the buyer’s representative to ask the buyer if they would like for you to leave any extra paint, tile or flooring, vinyl siding, etc., especially if they are not planning on a remodel. If so, stack them neatly in the garage or storage area.
  • All outdoor areas should be free of debris, do not leave garbage behind, and mow the lawn shortly before closing.
  • The best time to vacuum carpets and clean hard flooring is after everything is out of the home.

At best, the house should be sparkling clean upon the final walk-through. Sometimes, a dirty home can hold up closing, and that is never a good thing. If you simply do not have time to do a thorough cleaning before moving out, hire a professional team to do the dirty work for you.

Courtesy of New Castle County DE Realtor Tucker Robbins.   

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Get Your Home in a Good Mood!

Wednesday, July 24, 2024
by Tucker Robbins


Hopefully, walking in the door of your home after a long day at work starts turning off the stressors of the day so you can recharge for the next.  If there is anything about your house that doesn’t give you a good feeling, it may be time for some redecorating!  Here are 6 things you can do to create a comfortable atmosphere at home: 

 

  • - An unkempt yard or dirty, cluttered home can keep us feeling stressed and overwhelmed.  Once a room is cleaned, and piles of mail or schoolwork is organized, try to keep it that way.  If yard work is getting you down, find an affordable landscaping company or neighbor to get the grass mowed, leaves raked, or flower beds weeded. 
     

  • - You may not have had time to paint or do small redecorating projects when first purchased the house, and that outdated wallpaper or color is bringing you down. Color influences us, so when you are dreaming of Tiffany blue dining room walls, but yours are hunter green, take a weekend to get it done!  
     

  • - Light is so important to how we feel!  Keep shades and blinds open to allow sunlight to shine in, and that’s free!  Spending a little to improve poor lighting in a room with lamps, sconces and brighter bulbs is a mood-booster, as we are naturally drawn to light.  Add inexpensive battery-operated LED lighting to the underside of kitchen cabinetry, bookshelves and china cabinets. 
     

  • - According to Healthline, plants can boost your mood and provide many other benefits!  Where real plants aren’t practical, faux greenery will do, and it never needs watering. 
     

  • - One thing that can cause issues is keeping something on display that isn’t everyone’s favorite.  If there’s anything in a room that gives anyone a bad feeling or brings up memories they’d rather forget, remove it.   
     

  • - Aromatherapy is certainly a current trend, but scents do affect us in many ways.  There are so many ways to add a pleasant aroma to your home, so choose the most convenient method, along with a couple of different scents you love, and use them.  When you get used to smelling one, change it out with another.   

 

Finally, and most importantly, decorate with items you love.  Home shouldn’t be making you feel stressed, so hanging a piece of art that was a bargain, but you never really liked, isn’t a good bargain.  Walking into your home filled with things that bring you joy or peace--well, there’s no substitute. 

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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