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Getting Ready for Houseguest Season

Wednesday, November 6, 2024
by Tucker Robbins


Thinking ahead to the holidays and having guests over...  if it’s been a while since you’ve been in the guest room except to create a pile of things that should be stored somewhere else, it’s time to get in there and make it ready for anyone who may be coming to visit.  

 

The Guest Room 

  • - Tackle the cleaning of the guest room first.  Anything that you’ve stashed on the bed, closet or dresser that should be stored elsewhere, get that done.  Use under-bed storage containers to get some things out of the way, or store on the closet shelf. 
     

  • -Go through the closet and remove things that haven’t been worn in a year or more and donate those.  Guests will appreciate some empty hangers in the closet to keep their clothes from staying folded in a suitcase. 
     

  • - On the same token, open the top two dresser drawers, and purge anything inside that isn’t being used, and empty at least one drawer.  Use a sachet of cedar chips for a nice fresh-smelling place for your guests to keep their belongings. 
     

  • - Clean the room as if you were Spring-cleaning:  wash all the bedding, vacuum the whole room, including under the bed, and dust all wood surfaces well.   
     

  • - Have extra pillows and blanket on the bed, especially if the room is on the cooler side of the house.  Once you have the big things done, getting the room ready just before they arrive will go more quickly. 

 

No Guest Room? 

  • - If you don’t have the extra bedroom, consider investing in a futon, sofa bed or even a twin chairbed for your living area.  Even a good quality air mattress can be made into a comfortable overnight sleeping spot, and can be put wherever you want, and is easier to use for some privacy for your guests. 
     

  • - Your couch is a bit “lumpy,” or you simply want to make it comfier in case of needing it for extra beds, and a feather bed is perfect for this.  Featherbeds are easily stored, and will certainly offer some comfort when placed on top of the sofa cushions. 
     

  • - You will need a small table or other flat surface for guests to keep their luggage--anything that will make them feel like they have space of their own.   
     

  • - If your guest space will be in a living area, give them a feeling of privacy with a screen to block off the sleeping area.  Deciding to use a screen can give you an excuse to make one, and apartmenttherapy.com has a great tutorial for a screen made from hollow-core doors. 

 

Extras 

  • - Start stocking up now on trial- and travel-size toiletries, and purchase a couple of new towels to keep tucked away for guests. 
     

  • - Make sure the lighting in the bedroom is good, and all the lightbulbs are working. 

  • - Have a new house key made and hang it on a special keyring and use solely for guests. 

 

Getting the big things done now won’t have you scrambling during the busy holiday season to get ready for any overnight visits.  Most of the time, the whole point of having friends and family spend a few days in your home is to enjoy them!  Preparing now will mean less stress and plenty of enjoyment later!


Courtesy of New Castle County DE Realtor Tucker Robbins.   

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National Fire Prevention Month

Wednesday, October 2, 2024
by Tucker Robbins

It’s the time of year to check not only your battery-operated smoke alarm, but anything you have in your home that could start a fire if not properly used and maintained.  This is also the time to talk with your family about your emergency plan in case of a fire.  These tips will get you started: 

 

  • - Every kitchen should have an easily-accessed fire extinguisher.  If you don’t have one, purchase one, and if your old one hasn’t been serviced recently, call an official inspector to make sure yours is in good working order. 
     

  • - Smoke alarms are a must!  Older smoke detectors can be sensitive and go off while someone is cooking, and we inadvertently disconnect the battery to stop that, and forget to reconnect them.  - More recently-produced types have a sensitivity button that can reduce that problem for a set period of time and return to normal after the time is up. 
     

  • - Homes with more than one story should have an escape ladder close to an easily-accessed window on the upper floor.  Safewise.com has a list of their best-rated ladders, and offers tips for choosing the right ladder for your home. 
     

  • - Don’t overload electrical outlets, and use extension cords only on a temporary basis.  If you need more outlets, call an electrician to install them.  The cost of this greatly outweighs the cost of a fire. 
     

  • - A visit from an electrician is also warranted if you have outlets that spark when you use them, lights that flicker, or a circuit breaker that trips regularly. 
     

  • - Clean your dryer’s lint screen after each load, and keep the vent and back of the dryer clean from lint build-up. 
     

  • - Have chimneys and furnaces checked out before you use them to make sure they’re clean and in good working order.  If you use a wood fireplace, make sure the screen protector has no holes, and use only a flame-retardant rug in front of the hearth.
     

  • - While cooking, don’t leave the kitchen, and even though your children may like to help, have their station set up far from any hot items. Keep towels and paper products away from anything hot, and don’t leave cooking oil unattended. 
     

  • - Although it isn’t very common, lightning can cause a house fire.  Lightning rods may seem like an outdated tool, but they are not only helpful for redirecting lightning and prohibiting a fire, they can save your electronics from lightning damage.  Lovetoknow.com describes several different types of home lightning protection styles, and how they all work. 

 

Most importantly, you need a family fire plan, and everyone should be familiar with this plan.  For tips and a guideline to setting up your own fire escape plan, consult this page from the National Fire Protection Association, where you can find free printable tools to make your planning process go smoothly.  No amount of time taken to put a plan into place and practice is too much when it comes to protecting your home and family from a fire.
 

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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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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How Long Will Your Home Last?

Wednesday, June 26, 2024
by Tucker Robbins

 


Unless you’re buying a newly constructed home, you should be aware in your new abode of the ages of different elements. The National Homebuilders Association conducted a survey of different manufacturers to determine just how long components of a house lasted with normal use.  This information can be a very useful guide to every homeowner: 

 

General House Components 

  • - Masonry, including foundations, chimneys and fireplaces can last over 100 years.  If you live in an older or historic home, pay close attention to and repair damage to mason work, especially if it’s in the foundation. 
     

  • - A house with good bones can last an indefinite amount of time, which is evident when you tour historic neighborhoods.  The framing and roof trusses of a house can last many years with proper care. 
     

  • - The lifespan of your roof depends on the material; shingles are made to last 20-30 years, determined by material make-up, and stronger materials such as copper and slate can last up to fifty years. 
     

  • - Most exteriors, vinyl, wood, stucco, etc., and interior walls that are well-maintained can last the life of the house.  Wooden windows have a life expectancy of 30 years, while aluminum windows will survive 15-20 years. 
     

  • - Floors are normally made of strong wood or wood composites and should last upwards of fifty years. 

 

Kitchen 

  • - Your cabinetry takes a lot of abuse, but well-constructed cabinets will last fifty years. 
     

  • - The sink’s lifespan depends on the material, and can last a lifetime.  Faucets, however, will work well for fifteen years or so before needing work or replacement. 
     

  • - A dishwasher used regularly will function well for about nine years. 
     

  • - A gas stove seems to last longer than electric ranges, about fifteen years versus thirteen years. 

 

Bathroom 

  • - Toilets, bathtubs and sink are made to last a lifetime, even though some of the working part need work or replacement over that lifetime. 
     

  • - If your tub is enclosed with shower doors, they should serve you well for twenty years. 
     

  • - A tub with jets will last at least twenty years, once again, depending on use. 

 

Major Appliances 

  • - The whole-house system you use to heat and cool should give fifteen years of service before needing some attention or replacement parts. 
     

  • - You can expect your hot water heater to last about ten years, but a tankless heater can last twice that long.   
     

  • - Most washers and dryers will do your laundry for up to ten years. 

 

There are many more components to your new house, and MetroHome’s website offers the full NAHB survey including doors, paint, and specific types of flooring, among other things.  If you’re not sure of the age of an item in your home, call a trustworthy expert who can inspect and offer some advice.  A well-taken care of home can last many years, and not only maintain its value, but shelter you and yours for a lifetime. 

 

Courtesy of New Castle County DE Realtor Tucker Robbins.   

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From Tenants to Homeowners!

Wednesday, June 5, 2024
by Tucker Robbins


Whatever the reason you’ve decided that it’s time to go from renting a place to live to purchasing a home of your own, there is plenty to consider.  From down payments to paint, many factors of home ownership are different than when you’re a tenant in someone else’s home.   

 

  • - Begin budgeting now, if you do not already.  Homeownership has more expenses involved than renting, and you need to be able to manage your money properly. 

  • - Check your credit score and correct any mistakes, or do what it takes to bring your numbers up. 

  • - Start saving towards your down payment.  

  • - Be realistic.  You know about how much you can afford, so don’t start your initial search in the luxury homes sections. 

  • - Once your financial things are in good working order, shop around for a loan, and talk with the lender about your pre-approval amount.  Knowing how much you can afford will help keep you in check when it comes to the house searching. 

  • - Don’t balk at browsing other homes besides houses--there are affordable townhomes and condominiums that could be perfect for you as your first home purchase. 

  • - Think about your community options--do you want to live in a managed community (HOA), a rural area, new construction in a planned community, or an older suburban neighborhood?  Each can affect how much you pay in HOA fees, taxes, or maintenance costs. 

  • - If you have renter’s insurance, and you should, you’ll note that a homeowner’s policy costs more, because it covers much more than just your belongings.  Speak with your insurance agent about a quote so you can budget accordingly. 

  • - On the chance that you decide to relocate, you can choose to rent your property and become a landlord yourself.  You will have money from the rent to pay towards your mortgage payment, or, if the house is paid for, begin building a nest egg. 

  • - Purchasing a newer house than what you’re renting can save money in the end, because of less up-front maintenance, as well as being more energy efficient, thus having lower utility bills. 

 

Think about the freedom to paint your living room teal blue if you like, and feeling like dancing and not having to tiptoe because there are no neighbor’s downstairs.  As soon as you are ready, contacting a Realtor to help you get started is the first step you’ll need to take, as they are your guide during the whole home-buying process.   

Courtesy of New Castle County DE Realtor Tucker Robbins.   

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Curb Appeal Tips in New Castle County, DE

Wednesday, April 10, 2024
by Tucker Robbins

Obviously, the first thing a prospective buyer sees when they drive up to your house is the front outdoor space and exterior.  First impressions can make or break a sale! Bring your curb appeal to life with a few easy and easy-on-the-budget ideas. 

 

  • - Use a long-handled soft brush and mild soap and water to wash the front of your home’s exterior.   

  • - If you don’t own a pressure washer, rent one from your local home store and give the driveways and walkways a good cleaning, paying special attention to stains from fallen leaves. 

  • - Store away any personal items you have in the front garden, like statuary, monogram garden flags, and even the basketball goal over the garage door.  You want the buyers to imagine your yard as their own. 

  • - Trim or remove shrubbery and trees, or large plantings that don’t show off the front of your home.  If the job is too big, a professional may need to be called in. 

  • - Give the front door a fresh coat of paint in a bright inviting color, add a new welcome mat, and if necessary, install new hardware and clean up or add new house numbers. 

  • - Simply changing your old porch or yard light sconces can make a big difference in appearance, as most homes are shown during the day, but many house hunters drive around in the evenings, looking at homes on their want list, so you want the lighting to shine bright. 

  • - If you don’t want to invest in a lot of flowers in the landscape in hopes that you will be moving soon, cover the beds with new mulch.  For some color, place pots and containers in strategic areas filled with flowers and greenery. 

  • - On a large front porch, add a sitting area with an indoor-outdoor rug and casually arranged porch furnishings.   

  • - Fencing adds value to your home, but it needs to be in great condition.  Clean the fence, painting and repairing where needed. 

  • - Don’t forget the mailbox!  Inspect the post and mailbox itself carefully, and give it a good cleaning, or replace it altogether.  Some low maintenance plants around it will make it stand out. 

 

You want your home to give your potential buyers a great impression when they drive up.  They will likely have already scrolled through your home’s photos in the online listing, so it needs to look as great or better than what they’ve already seen.  These tips may seem insignificant to you, but look at your home through a buyer’s eyes, and do whatever is necessary to turn that first impression into a sale! 

 

Courtesy of New Castle County DE Realtors Tucker Robbins. 

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Selecting Plants and Flowers for Your Home Garden!

Wednesday, March 20, 2024
by Tucker Robbins


Many of us select plants for the garden at our New Castle County DE home based on their visual effect—color, height, size of blooms, etc. And so we should, as the sight of our plantings should be pleasing to our sense of sight. As we plan our garden, however, we should also be aware of the other four senses—and include plants which appeal to each of them.

SMELL: Aromatherapy is a powerful practice. With nothing more than a simple scent, the brain can be triggered to remember long forgotten memories, emotions, and feelings. With that being said, it is important to carefully select the flowers you want in the garden of your New Castle County DE home. With a few simple choices, you can create your own "memory lane' or relaxing oasis. In terms of fragrance, it’s hard to beat roses or lavender. Wisteria and jasmine are scented climbers which can really enhance the sensory pleasure of a garden, and amaryllis belladonna and spirea both add pleasant scents.

SOUND: Few of us associate the sense of sound with our garden, but the rustling of long grasses and the chirping of birds add a much-appreciated dimension. To attract songbirds, use fruit-bearing understory trees like dogwoods and service berries and shrubs such as viburnums and hollies and introduce low growing perennials and dwarf shrubs like creeping juniper and cotoneaster. You can also plant vines, ground covers, and sunflowers to increase chirping and tweeting.

TOUCH: Texture in garden design refers to the surface quality of the plant. Plant textures range from delicate and fine to coarse and bold. The feel of the foliage in your New Castle County DE home’s garden is not the only element of texture, however, as the texture can change with the play of light and shadow and even with viewing distance. Plants with thread-like leaves call out to be touched, so consider adding cosmos, baby's breath, asters, and grasses. In addition, iris and lamb’s ear will each provide softer tactile experiences.

TASTE: The world of herbs is nearly without limits. Think about basil, chives, rosemary, chamomile, cilantro, mint, and parsley, to name just a few tasty garden additions. Consider, too low bush blueberries or ligonberries. Lesser known, but equally valuable as salad additions are the flowers of the hibiscus shrub, columbine, and daylilies.

Some of the plants you have selected for your garden will serve more than one purpose and will appeal to more than one sense, so be sure to sniff, feel, taste, listen to, and view each of them!

Courtesy of New Castle County DE Realtors 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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