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8 Safety Tips for Staying Active Outdoors in Winter

Wednesday, February 8, 2023
by Tucker Robbins

Many people decide in the new year to become more active, and indoor activities seem much more to our liking this time of year. Outdoor activities, however, should not be left for warm weather months! After getting the okay from your primary care physician about your new exercise plans, safely take on the outdoors with these tips: 

 

  • Check the Weather: If the wind chill or air temperature is below freezing, choose an indoor activity, as the risk of frostbite increases greatly, even if you plan on doing any vigorous activity outside. 
     

  • Hydration is Important: Staying hydrated in winter is just as important as it is in the heat of July! Drink plenty of water before and after any time outdoors.

    Warm Up/Cool Down: Prepare your muscles with stretches or a simple walk in place before and after your activity. 
     

  • Layered Clothing: Wearing loose layers of synthetic fabrics will help trap warm air and keep your core temperature up. Stop and remove a layer before perspiration starts if you get warm. Clothing made of moisture-wicking synthetics is safer than cotton, as cotton does not dry quickly. 
     

  • Footwear: Wear thermal or wool socks and/or insulated shoes, and purchase shoe grips to keep you upright in snowy conditions! 
     

  • Cover Extremities: Keep your head, hands, and ears covered, and apply sunscreen to any exposed areas, no matter how small. 
     

  • Protect Your Eyes: Sunglasses are very important to wear in the winter, as they not only protect eyes from UV rays but snow glare as well. They also help your eyes retain moisture in the cold, dry air. 
     

  • Bring a Friend: Going for a walk or jog with others is a great safety measure, as everyone can keep an eye on one another, watch for signs of hypothermia, and give assistance in case of a fall. 

 

Take all of these into consideration even if your outdoor activity is related to landscaping or other home maintenance. If temps drop to extreme lows, burn calories indoors with a streaming exercise video at home or active housekeeping, visit an indoor walking track, or turn up your favorite song and dance like no one is watching! 

 

Courtesy of New Castle County DE Realtors Tucker Robbins and Carol Arnott Robbins.  

 

Photo credit: nymetroparents.com

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A Guide for Avoiding Foreclosure

Wednesday, January 25, 2023
by Tucker Robbins


Sometimes, homeowners can get into financial trouble by circumstances beyond their control. Job loss, divorce, medical bills, or the death of a family member are usually the culprits. While foreclosure seems to loom over an already bad situation, it does not have to get to that point!

 

Here are some tips that can help keep foreclosure proceedings at bay: 

 

  • Contact the lender before the first late mortgage payment, especially if there is equity in the home. Lenders normally do not begin the foreclosure process until payments are 120 days behind, so there is still time at this point. 
     

  • The mortgage servicer can offer several options to avoid losing the home to foreclosure: refinance the mortgage, a loan modification, working out a repayment plan, or forbearance. Two procedures that will affect the borrower’s credit score are the short-sale of the property, or going through a “deed-in-lieu of foreclosure." 
     

  • Selling expensive items--a boat that is only used a few times per year, for instance--can cut monthly expenses, and any proceeds can go towards the mortgage. 
     

  • Keeping mortgage payments current is more important than paying credit card bills! Credit scores will be affected by late credit card payments, but a foreclosure will do far more damage. 
     

  • Do not allow mail from the lender to go unopened if payments are currently behind. Mortgage lenders normally want to avoid foreclosing on the home as much as the homeowner. 
     

  • Credit counseling can never begin too early, and the HUD website offers lists of local credit counselors. Find other helpful information through the National Foundation for Credit Counseling®. 
     

  • Resist any quick-fix offers advertised on the internet, television commercials, and junk mail, or even from so-called investors. These “rescue mortgages” could be scams, and a home can be lost before foreclosure procedures can even begin. 
     

  • When the house payment is simply no longer affordable, get advice from an attorney whose specialty is foreclosure, as most will do a one-time consult at no cost. Legal Aid can assist the borrower in finding a pro bono lawyer. 

 

The best tip is to contact the lender as soon as finances become difficult to manage. Being proactive before the installments become overdue will allow more options to be available. A house is an important investment, and it is home. A homeowner should do all they can in order to keep it. 

 

Courtesy of New Castle County DE Realtors Tucker Robbins and Carol Arnott Robbins.   

 

Photo credit: Forbes 

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9 Tips for Cleaner Laundry

Wednesday, January 18, 2023
by Tucker Robbins

Virtually everyone does laundry, but does everyone do it well? With so many different washers and products available it is natural to assume that the machine and detergent will take care of everything, but that is not always the case. Get your clothes their cleanest with this guide:

  • Adding too many items to the washer keeps them from getting truly clean. How much can your washer tub handle? The Spruce shows how to figure it out!
     
  • Never allow stains to dry, if possible. Even with the use of stain removers, not every set- in stain comes out. The American Cleaning Institute Stain Removal Guide has a solution for almost every stain under the sun!
     
  • Too much detergent can leave residue and actually cause stains! Measure carefully and add laundry boosters, such as borax or laundry soda, to get your laundry really clean.
     
  • Just like detergent use, adding extra bleach to a cycle of whites or towels will cause fabrics to eventually yellow and break down. Use the recommended amount on the bottle.
     
  • If you want that “clean” scent of “fresh” laundry, make your own scent booster with your favorite essential oil and Epsom salts. This is better for your laundry and the environment!
     
  • Ignoring hand-washing instructions can be a big mistake. When you do not have time to swish those pieces in the sink, use a garment bag and/or the delicate cycle on your machine, and lay items flat or hang them to dry.
     
  • Fabric softener can actually damage certain fibers, ie., athletic wear does not benefit from the softener because it coats the moisture-wicking fibers in the clothing. Adding one cup of white vinegar to the final rinse will remove detergent residue, and its strong scent fades quickly. Towels will be soft without softener when dried in the dryer.
     
  • Save the high-heat dryer cycle for towels and whites. Clothes may take longer on the low heat setting, but the lower temperature helps save your clothes from fading and shrinkage.
     
  • When you stop using fabric softeners or sheets, static from the dryer is the next issue. Try some aluminum foil balls–yes, aluminum foil!--and you will be finished with fabric softener sheets and static!

Change your way of thinking about doing laundry--not a job, but a process! It may add a few minutes to this chore, but you will benefit from longer-lasting clothes and less energy use, saving money in the end.

Courtesy of New Castle County DE Realtors Tucker Robbins and Carol Arnott Robbins.   

 

Photo credit: mommymusings.com

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Home Maintenance for Winter

Wednesday, January 11, 2023
by Tucker Robbins

Home maintenance may be the last thing on your mind now that the holidays are over and the days are becoming colder and colder.  Sitting in your home wrapped in your favorite blanket by the fire is likely what you are thinking about this winter.  There is some home maintenance items   you should take care of during the winter months however so that you don’t have to deal with issues caused by not doing so later.  Below is a list of a few home maintenance items you need to go ahead and take care of around your house this winter. 

  1.  As temperatures continue to plummet this winter you should do your best to protect your pipes from freezing.  You can wrap your pipes with many different things to protect them from the elements such as heat tape and insulated pipe covers.  If your pipes do freeze you can easily thaw them out by wrapping it in a heating pad or using a hairdryer.
     
  2. Another home maintenance  item you need to take care of this winter to avoid issues later in the year is to do an inspection of your roof, your gutters and your siding as well as your chimney.  Make sure that everything is in good working order before the winter pushes your house to its breaking point. 
     
  3. Winter is a good time to do some cleaning that you might not otherwise think about as well such as cleaning out your range hood, refrigerator coils, dusting off ceiling fans, and dusting off light fixtures and bulbs.  These items typically get overlooked when it is warm outside because you don’t spend as much time indoors when it’s nice out.  Being stuck inside on a cold wintery day is a great excuse or reason to clean these types of things. 
     
  4. Lastly you might want to take the time you have in your home this winter to de-clutter your house.  Getting rid of clutter will not only get rid of fire hazards but will also make you feel more at peace when you do have to spend a lot of time indoors. 

These are a few home maintenance ideas that will help you to keep your house in good working order for the year to come.   Why not get started now so that you can then have some time to rest before you have to do it all over again.  

Courtesy of New Castle County DE Realtors Tucker Robbins and Carol Arnott Robbins.   

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Winter Decor Ideas

Wednesday, January 4, 2023
by Tucker Robbins

The Christmas decorations come down, and everything looks so stark and plain, but it doesn’t have to be that way! Try some of these ideas to brighten up your home during the long winter days.  

 

  • - Change your light bulbs to those that give off a blue hue to mimic sunlight. For dark mornings, invest in a sunrise light that comes on and brightens over a period of time to simulate the sun rising. 
     

  • - Force the flower bulbs you were given as gifts. Their bright colors will bring Springtime early—indoors, anyway.  
     

  • - Use light, bright colors everywhere you can—cozy throws, pillows, slipcovers, and accent rug—the light colors reflect what natural light we have coming through the windows and help boost our mood.  
     

  • - Using natural items isn’t just for Christmas. A basket of pine cones with battery operated LED lights woven through them, or a simple wreath of twigs can double as decor for January.  
     

  • - Use snowflakes, no matter where you live, to brighten up your interior. Get the kids to cut out paper snowflakes, or make these popsicle stick snowflakes. Hang either on clear monofilament and make a mobile or garland and hang them in a window.  
     

  • - Cut the arms off of old sweaters and use them to wrap around candle holders and vases for a fun, cozy appearance.  
     

  • - Clip small branches and twigs, spray them with white spray paint, (or leave them natural), and display them in vases with artificial snow, small pine cones, or whole nuts as a filler.  
     

  • - Hang a mirror, or several, in a dark spot in your home. It will reflect light and brighten the space.  
     

  • Winter greens joined with a child’s sled, vintage ice skates, or a harness of jingle bells make great front door adornment.  
     

  • - Use unused scarves wrapped around a foam wreath core for a fun and unique decoration. Hang a pair of mittens in place of a bow. 
     

  • - Do you or any friends have flowering trees? If so, ask them for a few snipped branches, and force-bloom them with these tips from Fine Gardening.  The Springtime buds will brighten any room. 

 

Decorating for the colder months doesn’t have to scream Santa. Light colors, natural things and cozy pieces are perfect for brightening the long nights, and making your home as inviting as it was during the holidays.  

 

Courtesy of New Castle County DE Realtors Tucker Robbins and Carol Arnott Robbins.   

 

Photo credit: homebnc.com

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Giving Locally in New Castle County DE

Wednesday, December 28, 2022
by Tucker Robbins


Making the decision to give charitably is a personal thing, because we normally give to organizations that share our beliefs, or support something close to our hearts.  National charities are great, but most of those larger organizations receive funding from large corporations and very wealthy philanthropists.  Have you ever thought about local non-profits that may need your help?  

 

  • - Some veterinarians have funds set aside specifically to assist pet owners who can’t always afford care for their pets. Most accept donations, and this would be a great way for pet-lovers to give to other pets in their community, just in a different way. 
     

  • - Speaking of pets, most shelters need assistance with everyday things like food, toys, litter and bedding, and will gladly accept these items, too.   
     

  • - Local schools usually don’t have a lot in their sports, clubs, or extracurricular budgets.  Call your local school system office and find out where you can help the most. 
     

  • - Free housing for cancer patients (like Hope Lodge) and families of sick children (Ronald McDonald House) is another great way to help those who are going through a tough time.  When you donate through the main websites, you can choose where your donation goes.
     

  • - Community centers are a great place for people to take classes of all kinds, play sports, or gather as hobby groups.  Get in touch with your local community center director to see if you can donate to a certain program or help get a new program off the ground. 
     

  • - Organizations that help protect victims of domestic violence is more than most people realize: they help victims relocate and set up new homes. Cash donations are great, but many accept used household items in good condition, diapers, personal hygiene products, and even gift cards to help their residents have a night out. 
     

  • - Food pantries and soup kitchens can always use monetary donations besides shelf-stable food items--people are hungry year-round, not just during the holidays. 
     

  • - Local theater groups are on very tight budgets--they gladly accept donations and volunteers! 
     

  • - Orphanages are commonly called “children’s homes,” and you may have one in your area and not realize it.  If you find one locally, give them a call and see what they need.   
     

  • - Government-funded senior centers are great places for those in the retired community to gather and can always use extra for programs that enhance the lives of those who are on fixed incomes. 

 

If you can’t afford a donation once a year, set up a monthly donation program for yourself, choose wisely, and give back to your community.  We all want to live in a happy place, and when we help our fellow citizens, everybody’s happy.

 

Courtesy of New Castle County DE Realtors Tucker Robbins and Carol Arnott Robbins.   

Photo credit: http://geoffsshorts.blogspot.com

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Creating a Restful Bedroom

Wednesday, December 21, 2022
by Tucker Robbins

Ah, rest--it is probably one thing that many people will say that they don’t get enough of.  Something we may not realize that’s vital to a good night’s sleep is a calm atmosphere in the bedroom.  Let’s look at what we can do to create a restful bedroom. 

 

  • - Keep the room free of clutter: use storage containers under the bed for clothes you may not have room for, keep jewelry neatly hanging or in a jewelry box, have a hamper tucked away for clothing that needs to be washed, and shoes should be tucked away. 
     

  • - Some smaller homes don’t have a designated room for an office, and it’s important to keep the two separate, even in the same room.  Face the work area away from the bed and use a screen if you like.  Keep the desk tidy, so you’re not looking at work that needs to be done while you’re preparing to go to bed.  Turn off any electronics that can disturb the quiet of the room when you’re not using them. 
     

  • - Low lighting is important, so use a low-wattage bulb in the bedside lamp and add a timer for it to come one just before bedtime so you won’t have to turn on the bright ceiling light when it’s time to get ready for sleep. 
     

  • - Sleep experts will tell you that the bedroom is no place for a television!  If sleep is an issue for you, keep the tv in the family room, as the light and noise will keep you from truly resting.  
     

  • - On that note, if you need some sort of noise to help you sleep, there are many white noise machines and smartphone apps, as well as playlists on many music streaming services that have a variety of relaxing background noise.  Ditch the tv and use white or “pink” noise to help you drift off. 
     

  • - Room-darkening shades can be very helpful in blocking city lights and help those who must work at night sleep during the day.   
     

  • - Pets are like family for most of us but allowing them to sleep in bed with you may not be such a good idea.   Have a special bed or crate for Spot to sleep in, so their nighttime movements won’t disturb your deep sleep cycles.  
     

  • - Room temperature is very important to rest.  If it’s in the budget, have a separate heating and cooling system for the bedroom, and keep it between 60° and 67°, and if that’s not possible, use a fan to keep you cool. 
     

  • - Choosing the color for decorating is important, as colors influence us when it comes to different activities.  Most of us know that blues, greens and grays are relaxing colors, but if you like to make a bold statement, light colors won’t work.  Royal blue, shades of teal, and browns can still make a room feel calm and add bright style to the room. 
     

  • - Obviously, your bedding is one of the most vital parts of getting a good night’s rest.  Have a comfortable mattress with good pillows and bedding appropriate for keeping you comfortable.   

 

Sleeping well is so important to many aspects of life, not to mention your health, and if your bedroom isn’t helping you get a good night’s sleep, it’s time to make some changes.  The Better Sleep Foundation has some other tips and information on how your bedroom can help you get the rest you need. 

 

Courtesy of New Castle County DE Realtors Tucker Robbins and Carol Arnott Robbins.   

Photo credit: Pinterest

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Keeping Your Packages Safe

Wednesday, December 14, 2022
by Tucker Robbins


With online shopping having become so popular, this time of year brings stories on the news about package thieves, as well as new gadgets to help deter someone from walking away with packages delivered while someone isn’t home.  There are several options we have that can help keep our deliveries secure, as well as help from online retailers.   

 

  • - Talk to neighbors that may be home during the days you’re expecting a package, and ask them to be on the lookout for a delivery to your home so they can hold it for you or stash it somewhere out of sight. 
     

  • - There are simple ways to hide an unattended package: have a large plant to hide boxes behind, or use a lockbox at your doorstep, with key instructions for the carrier in your delivery details. 
     

  • - Most large retailers will give you a “ship to store” option, and all you have to do is pick it up at the Customer Service desk.   
     

  • - If your package is coming via USPS, there are several ways to divert package delivery, as well as ask a carrier to leave it somewhere out of sight. 
     

  • - When you place your order, if you know you’re going to be at work, make sure your boss doesn’t mind if you have your items delivered to your workplace, and use that address for shipping. 
     

  • - Your local pack-and-ship store will receive deliveries for you for a fee.  
     

  • - Installing a visible security camera at your front door can deter some thieves, and some cameras come with motion-sensor options to set off a siren or other alert if someone gets too close to your front door. 
     

  • - Amazon is offering several delivery options:  Amazon Locker, Key In-Car Delivery, and Hub by Amazon. 
     

  • - UPS offers My Choice to customize your deliveries. For FedEx deliveries, go to their Delivery Manager, create and account, and manage your deliveries. 

 

The best way to prevent “package Grinches” from stealing your deliveries is to be proactive.  Use text message and email alerts, as well as specific delivery company smartphone apps to notify you when a package is left at your door.  

 

Courtesy of New Castle County DE Realtors Tucker Robbins and Carol Arnott Robbins.   

Photo credit: Best Buy

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Grow These 8 Houseplants - No Green Thumb Necessary

Wednesday, November 9, 2022
by Tucker Robbins

One welcome comeback in home decor is the use of houseplants! Indoor plants bring so much to our homes, and one does not have to have a lot of gardening knowledge to grow beautiful plants. Here are just a few plants that will give even the brownest thumb success! 

 

  • - Succulents are at the top of the easy indoor plant list. No wonder–they need just a little bit of attention, take up very little space, and most only need indirect light. 
     

  • The spider plant is as lovely in a pot stand as it is hanging from a ceiling hook. Available in green or variegated leaf color, these plants offer a bonus: easily-rooted baby plants to share or keep for yourself! 
     

  • A proven air purifier, the ZZ plant is great for homes with low light. These plants will thrive in even the darkest corner of a room, but keep in mind that they need to be out of the reach of pets and is not for human consumption, either. 
     

  • For a bit of color, grow a variety of bromeliad. Other than needing to be misted often and keeping their natural “cups” filled with fresh water, these tropical beauties will reward you with splashes of color. 
     

  • The name “air plant” is synonymous with “easy to grow!”  These plants do not need soil, can be placed in virtually anything, and need only indirect sunlight and weekly misting or soaking. 
     

  • Lavender as an easy indoor plant? Absolutely! As long as there is bright light and occasional watering, the room will be filled with its comforting scent. 
     

  • A hanging basket of philodendron is a common sight, but this plant is easily grown in water! Choose an opaque container, keep the water fresh and chlorine-free, adding water-soluble fertilizer occasionally, and this trailing plant will thrive! 
     

  • If you want blooms, the tried and true African violet is the plant to grow indoors! This dainty plant simply asks to be placed in bright light and its soil kept moist. Many hybrids are available in several colors to brighten any space. 

 

There are many proven benefits to growing plants indoors, so why not try one or several easy-to-grow plants shared by Guide to Houseplants? Your health, home, and happiness will get a much-deserved boost, and it could be the start of a rewarding hobby! 

 

Courtesy of New Castle County DE Realtors Tucker Robbins and Carol Arnott Robbins.   

 

Photo credit: Readers Digest

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Making New Friends After a Move

Wednesday, September 28, 2022
by Tucker Robbins

Relocating to a new city, or even a new area, can be hard enough without missing your old friends. Finding new friends and acquaintances can be easy if you put some effort and a little research in it.  

 

Your New Neighbors 

  • 1. Once you're settled, go for a walk and introduce yourself when you see neighbors outside.  Have a porch or front yard gathering on a weekend afternoon. Offer light, simple snacks and invite the whole neighborhood.  
     

  • 2. Get outside and work on the landscaping, small DIY projects, or sit on the front steps with a good book. Your neighbors then have the opportunity to say hello. 
     

  • 3. Just a few outdoor decorations can bring compliments from neighbors, always an easy way to start a conversation. 
     

  • 4. If you have pets, especially a dog, they make great ice-breakers when you're out for a stroll.  
     

  • 5. Visit your local small businesses and you'll see enough familiar faces over time that saying “Hello” will be easy.  
     

  • 6. Ask your realtor if there's a neighborhood community center, and call to see how you can get involved.  
     

  • 7. Children make great conversation-starters.  They love finding nearby kids to hang out with, and taking them for a bike ride is a great way to get to know other families. 
     

  • 8. Host a fun, child-centered activity in your front yard with outdoor games and snacks.  Invite the kids in the neighborhood and their parents, and they will come! 

 

Your New Town 

  • 1. Ask current friends if they know anyone in your new area, and get in touch with them. 
     

  • 2. Contacts from local organizations--these can provide you with lots of information about your new hometown, as well as introduce you to new people.  
     

  • 3. Search social media for events taking place in your area and go to them! 
     

  • 4. Invite your new coworkers to lunch or coffee.  
     

  • 5. Getting the kids involved in activities will connect you with locals and other parents.  
     

  • 6. Hobbyists sometimes have get-togethers for like-minded people. Find a nearby group with your same interest, and join them.  
     

  • 7. School parent organizations are a great place to meet other parents.  

 

It seems that we are always busy working, or driving our children to so many activities, that a relaxing weekend in front of the tv sounds like the perfect down time. Getting to know who your neighbors are, however, can be invaluable to feeling at home in your new home, and only takes a little effort on your part.  

 

Courtesy of New Castle County DE Realtors Tucker Robbins and Carol Arnott Robbins.   

 

Photo credit: http://www.interconnectedlives.com/

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