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Tips for the Cleanest Windows on the Block!

Wednesday, November 24, 2021
by Tucker Robbins

The dry and dusty days of summer are over, and your home’s windows could use some sprucing up, inside and out. Do not let window-washing intimidate you--it is a time-consuming task, but one that goes quickly once you are in the zone! Here are a few tips to encourage you to get those windows sparkling clean: 

 

Before you Begin: 

  • - Mix up a cleaning solution in a large bucket: 1 gallon of water, 1/4 cup white vinegar, and a squirt of liquid dish detergent--it is best to use too little detergent than too much, as too many suds can lead to streaking and extra rinsing time. 

  • - Use a soft-bristled brush with a long handle (a car-washing brush would be perfect) or a flat microfiber mop, water hose, a step ladder or stepping stool, and a squeegee is the best tool, but a microfiber cloth will do. 

 

Wash the dirt away: 

  • - Begin by removing the screen panels, laying them on a hard surface, and giving them a good shower with the hose, then gently scrubbing with the cleaning solution. After rinsing, prop them up to dry while you tackle the windows. 

  • - Much like washing a car, rinse off as much dirt as you can, starting at the top of the window. Use the brush to give the glass a gentle scrubbing, paying extra attention to anything that is stuck to the window. 

  • - Rinse with the hose, and use a squeegee or microfiber cloth to wipe off excess water. If you use a squeegee, work from top to bottom, and wipe the blade dry between swipes. 

 

No Ladder Necessary 

A ladder is not needed to get a clean finish on windows that are too high to reach using a hose and a hose-end window sprayer: 

  • - Use the same recipe for the cleaning solution, but stir in 1-2 tablespoons of dishwasher rinsing aid to the mix. 

  • - Give the entire window--screen and all--a thorough spray of plain water to remove and loosen dirt. 

  • - Fill the sprayer with the cleaner, attach it to the hose, and, out of direct sunlight, spray from top to bottom. 

  • - Immediately rinse with plain water, and the rinsing aid should allow your window to dry without streaks, no wiping or squeegee required! 

 

The Family Handyman has a great tutorial, which includes a how-to for the sticky stuff, as well as getting the best results from a squeegee. Go ahead and get started on this much-dreaded chore. Once it is complete, everyone will see you have the most sparkling windows in the neighborhood! 

 

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

 

Photo credit: Bob Vila

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Fire Prevention

Wednesday, November 17, 2021
by Tucker Robbins

Although it may seem like it was only yesterday that you ran a check on all your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, making sure your home and your family are prepared in case of fire cannot be repeated too often. 

 

Fire Safety Tools 

  • - Properly functioning smoke alarms are the first step in alerting everyone in the house of fire. Detectors should be installed on every floor, closest to bedrooms.  Consider installing an interconnected alarm system so that when one goes off, all of them go off. 
     

  • -A fire extinguisher should be easily accessible on every floor of your home. Learn how and where to store the extinguishers, as well as what types to keep in each place from Firefighter Insider. 


  • - 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. 
     

  • - One prevention measure many homeowners do not consider is the installation of lightning rods. Lightning rods may seem like an outdated tool, but they can save electronics from lightning damage as well as preventing a fire. Home lightning protection comes in many styles that complement the exterior of your home. 

 

Fire Safety Tips 

  • - Is there a circuit breaker that trips frequently or a light switch that does not always work? These types of electricity issues are dangerous and should be checked out by an electrician. 
     

  • - Using extension cords seems to be the best solution when there are not enough outlets. Overloading electrical outlets is dangerous, so call an electrician to install more. The cost of a professional upgrade outweighs the cost of a fire. 
     

  • - Keeping the dryer’s lint screen and vent clean prevents lint build-up, making fire less likely.
     

  • - Never leave cooking food unattended, 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.
     

  • - Besides knowing how to use an extinguisher, every cook in the house should know how to keep a grease fire from spreading. 

 

Most importantly, set up a family fire plan, and call a family meeting so that all family members know what to do and where to go in case of fire. Consult the National Fire Protection Association’s guidelines and use the 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 Realtors Tucker Robbins and Carol Arnott Robbins.   

 

Photo credit: epicurious

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6 Tips on Building Equity in Your Home

Wednesday, November 10, 2021
by Tucker Robbins


What is home equity? The Balance explains it this way: home equity “...is the amount that you own, or what you would get after paying off your mortgage after selling.”  For most Americans, their home is their largest investment, so keeping a watchful eye on the equity and taking action when it is necessary is their first defense.  

 

  • Before purchasing a new home, consider adding more to the down payment. This simple action creates equity by reducing the amount of your mortgage loan. 
     

  • The smaller the loan term, the faster the loan is paid off. Your payments will be higher, but if it is affordable, it is a fantastic way to gain equity quickly. 
     

  • Every monthly payment you pay towards your mortgage automatically builds equity unless your mortgage is an interest-only loan. Discuss this with your lender before you begin because you want to be certain that you are paying down the principal. 
     

  • - Adding to your payment each month not only builds the equity, but it will save money on interest in the long-term. 

  • - Consider dividing your monthly payment into two payments every other week. This plan makes it easier for you to squeeze in one extra payment per year. (26 half-payments=13 monthly payments) 

  • - Less expensive ways to pay the principal down sooner:  round up your monthly payment, budget a smaller amount each month to be paid on your loan, or use a tax refund or work bonuses to pay towards the principal. 
     

  • Properly maintaining your home will at least keep up the value, depending on the market, of course. Roof leaking? Repair it. Paint peeling? Grab a paintbrush. Sweat equity does not cost you anything, but if you must, hire a pro so that the job is done right. 
     

  • Adding value to your home is possible, but only if you are not spending too much out-of-pocket or dipping into a home equity loan to make the upgrades. 
     

  • Refinance your mortgage only if it is necessary or if you are decreasing the loan term. 

 

If you are unsure about the local market, call New Castle County DE Realtors Tucker Robbins and Carol Arnott Robbins. and ask them to pull recent sales in your neighborhood so you can compare selling prices of similar homes with your mortgage balance. Now may be a good time to sell if you have enough equity in your home, and the agent will help you every step of the way! 

 

Photo credit: mortgageloan.com

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Protecting Your Vacant Home For Sale

Wednesday, November 3, 2021
by Tucker Robbins


Moving before your old home sells can cause some anxiety for the property’s safety. Criminals can be savvy these days, and you do not want your home compromised, especially when potential buyers are there for a showing. Besides having interior lights set on timers, window coverings, and motion-sensor outdoor lighting, there are a few more things you can do to add an extra layer of security: 

 

- The first step is the most obvious: lock all doors and windows. If someone is looking for easy access, they will check every entryway, and if they are locked, they may decide to walk away. 
 

- Before the move, check in with your insurance agent and make sure your homeowners policy covers a vacant house. 
 

- Ask someone you know and trust to keep an eye on things, especially if your move is long-distance. If you must pay someone, check their references. 
 

- Find a neighbor who is willing to park their vehicle in your driveway as another safety measure. 
 

- Continue to maintain the landscaping, preferably by a reputable landscaper, neighbor, friend, or family member. 
 

- As unlikely as it may seem, the HVAC unit should be secured. Installing a lock on the circuit box will discourage theft and adding a security cage is a plus. 
 

- Home security systems are more affordable than ever, and you do not necessarily have to pay a monthly service fee to a company. Do some online research and find a system that connects wirelessly and has a coordinating smartphone app.  You can keep an eye on things yourself, and if there’s anything suspicious, call your local contact and ask them to check your house for you. 

- Your RealtorⓇ normally provides a lockbox to be placed in an out-of-sight place on the outside of the house. Advancements in technology have made these tools even more secure, including types that record who shows your house and when. 

 

Think of the expense of taking additional precautions as an investment. There is no price tag on peace of mind and protecting your property when you are not present.  Another bonus is that the added security could be more incentive to potential buyers, making your home sell sooner! 

 

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

 

Photo credit: lakehomes.com

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Moving? Should You Sell or Lease?

Wednesday, October 27, 2021
by Tucker Robbins

When the time comes to relocate, the thought of selling your home while purchasing another seems too much, so renting your current place sounds like a win-win for you. The extra income sounds great, knowing your house is still there in case you need it is another nice thought.  There are pros and cons to this decision, however, so look through these tips to help you finalize your decision: 

 

  • One major factor to consider is when you know the move is not permanent.  If you know you will be returning in a few years, and it may be a good idea to lease while you are away so you will not have to house hunt upon your return. 
     

  • Take a close look at the financial aspects of renting your house: 

  • - Landlord’s insurance premiums may cost more than a homeowner’s policy. Talk to your insurance agent about the differences in cost. 

  • - If you have equity in your house, or the money a sale will generate will allow for a nice deposit on another, you really should consider a sale. 

  • - Do the math--if you have a loss after all your expenses (insurance, repairs, property taxes, etc.) are deducted from the rental payments, it would be a better idea to sell. 
     

  • Take into consideration that in larger areas, there may be times of a vacancy.  Can you handle your current mortgage and rent or mortgage payment in the new place?  If not, put the house on the market. 
     

  • Renting may be a good choice if the house needs repairs or improvements to bring a good sale price, and the cost of those fixes all at once is out of your budget. 
     

  • Consider the occasional tenant that will not care for the property as you do. Landlord insurance will not cover normal wear-and-tear, nor intentional damage. 
     

  • Things can happen, and even good tenants are suddenly unable to pay rent on time--or worse, stop paying rent--and you will be stuck with the mortgage payment, not to mention the possibility of the costs of going through the eviction process.  
     

  • If you live in an area that attracts visitors or tourists, consider short-term leasing with an online booking company. Be sure you are within your city’s regulations for short-term rentals and consider the frequent cleaning costs and other risks taken when renting to tenants that you have little means to check into before they enter your house. 

 

The stress of renting just might be greater than the house-hunting in the case of a temporary move.  Talk to other property managers in your area and look at your financial information before you make the final choice. When you decide to sell, call New Castle County DE Realtors Tucker Robbins and Carol Arnott Robbins.

 

Photo credit: multibriefs

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7 Budget-Friendly Bathroom Redo Tips

Wednesday, October 20, 2021
by Tucker Robbins


According to Homeadvisor.com, the average bathroom remodel costs about $10,000! When yours is crying out for help but the money for a complete overhaul is not in the budget, there are plenty of options that are easy on the wallet. Find some inexpensive inspiration in the following tips: 

 

  • Something as simple as updating your light fixture can be a huge improvement. Whether you buy brand new at your local home store or a good-as-new used piece, this is an easy DIY. Call a reputable electrician if you choose to add lighting or move the current connection. 
     

  • Add style to a plain mounted mirror with a frame! Framing kits come with everything you need for this quick update and are available at home centers and online for less than $100. 
     

  • Old linoleum that is in good condition can be covered with adhesive-backed vinyl tile or painted with porch paint. Create a custom look by using a stencil. Supplies may cost a bit more than other paint jobs, but it beats the expense of replacing the flooring. 
     

  • Are the walls covered in thirty-year-old wallpaper? The easiest fix for that is to paint over it! Benjamin MooreⓇ suggests you start by sealing any peeling spots with adhesive and applying clear caulking where wallpaper meets the ceiling or the floor. Save time by using paint with built-in primer, and paint as you would any other wall surface. 
     

  • A new faucet is a quick way to update the sink. Confident do-it-yourselfers can switch the old with the new with help from this step-by-step video how-to for faucet installation from Home Depot. 
     

  • The most inexpensive update for the cabinet would be paint and new hardware. Even laminate countertops can be painted or tiled for a fresh look. 
     

  • If your budget is tight, just the purchase of a new shower curtain, window treatment, inexpensive framed prints, and one nice coordinating towel set can make a huge improvement to a dated bathroom. 

 

Having several remodeling jobs on the to-do list usually means beginning with the most affordable projects. Making budget-friendly bathroom updates will help ease the urgency of needing a full renovation. Save yourself stress and money by holding out just a little longer, and when it’s time, you’ll have the perfect bathroom! 

 

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

 

Photo credit: Sherwin-Williams

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A Seller's and Buyer's Guide to Property Disclosures

Wednesday, October 13, 2021
by Tucker Robbins

Realtor® Magazine’s definition of disclosures is “federal, state, county, and local requirements of disclosure that the seller provides, and the buyer acknowledges.”  In most states, this means that a seller must let a buyer know about known problems with the property they are selling.  Disclosing issues with a house is important for both buyer and seller. Understand more about property disclosures in this guide: 

 

Disclosures and the Seller 

  • - Every prospective property seller will receive a disclosures form from their listing agent.  This form should be filled out truthfully and to the best of the seller’s knowledge. 
     

  • - Most states want these items disclosed to the buyer:  lead paint or asbestos, previous repairs or additions, mold or water damage, pest issues, drainage problems, foundation cracks, problems with HVAC and other appliances, and roof condition/age. 
     

  • - The listing agent will be aware of all government disclosure requirements--federal, state, and local.  Transparency from the seller is a must at this point of the property sale. 
     

  • - “Better safe than sorry,” should be the homeowner’s motto when it comes to disclosures.  For instance, if there is a possibility that mold is an issue under the house, an inspector should have a look. 
     

  • - Disclose minor things that you have learned to live with.  Items a seller considers small--such as a rattling window on a windy day, or a repair made many years past--can be big things to the buyer. 

  • The disclosure should be ready before the seller accepts an offer--for their protection. 

 

What the Buyer Needs to Know 

  • - Once a potential buyer receives the disclosure statement, they should read it over carefully and without distraction. Any questions should be marked or written down and questions presented before the disclosure form is signed. 
     

  • - The added expense of having a home inspection is vital to this part of the sale.  When the buyer meets the inspector, the disclosure form should be in hand so each item can be checked out thoroughly. 
     

  • - Check local government building permit and zoning information to make sure any additions were performed legally by licensed people. 
     

  • - If negotiations about any disclosure’s issues break down, it may be best for the buyer to walk away from the sale. 
     

  • - In the end, doing due diligence is the best way for a buyer to find problems that will be a major issue after the sale. 
     

Disclosures should be a seller’s protection plan, and smart sellers will be completely honest, and even disclose more than necessary.  Sellers should make sure that their state laws ask them to disclose things like traffic noise, undesirable neighbors, or even paranormal activity!  Choosing a Realtor® with experience will help sellers through the disclosures process so that buyers will have full confidence in the property they are purchasing, which makes for a quick and smooth sale! 

 

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

 

Photo credit: mwlp

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Maximizing Space in Small Kitchens

Wednesday, October 6, 2021
by Tucker Robbins


Maximizing space in a small kitchen can take a little creativity, and it may be especially difficult for someone who is downsizing or buying a home that was built when kitchen size was not a priority. It is important to use the space you have and being practical with storage and placement. Check out these tips for ways to make the most out of your small kitchen: 

  • - Create a pot rack with a sturdy stylish towel rack and S-hooks. 
     

  • - If drawer space is at a minimum, keep cooking utensils nearby in an unused cookie jar on the counter, or hang them from small nails on the inside of the cabinet doors. 
     

  • - Spice racks can also be mounted to the insides of cabinet doors to free up storage space. 
     

  • - Domestically Speaking has a simple how-to for adding tip-out storage onto false drawer fronts for smaller items like sponges and scrub pads. 
     

  • - If pegboard storage is good enough for Julia Child, it’s good enough for our kitchens! It can be cut to fit any wall space, painted to match any decor, making it a stylish and convenient place to hang cookware. 
     

  • - Use magnetic strips to store cutlery or small jars with metal lids on the side of the fridge.
     

  • - If the cabinets do not have soffits, utilize that space for lesser-used items. Think out-of- the-box storage, too: keep extra paper towels, disposable plates, or other items that will take up room in more important areas. 
     

  • - Very small kitchens leave little space for a table or an island, so mounting a folding table or shelf to the wall can help you during prep or mealtimes and fold out of the way when you don’t need it.
     

  • - A butcher block stove cover will add useful counter space where space is lacking. It will also keep from having to find a place to stash a cutting board, as it will already be on display!
     

  • - Departments and home stores have many different varieties of moveable kitchen carts.
     

  • - A cart will offer a prep area as well as storage that can be tucked away when not in use. 

 

The average size kitchen is 70 square feet, according to the building industry, and many homes have an even smaller space. Take a few extra steps to make the space in your kitchen work best, and you will see a difference in meal prep time and clean up, making mealtime more enjoyable! 

 

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

 

Photo credit: design indulgences 

 

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Financial Mistakes for First-Time Homebuyers to Avoid

Wednesday, September 29, 2021
by Tucker Robbins

Finding out just what is involved in the home-buying process can take some first-time homebuyers by surprise. It is not just a process of finding the right house, but the financial end can be overwhelming. Keep these tips in mind to help you avoid common errors a home buyer can make: 

 

  • The all-important first step: before going to a lender, make sure your credit is in good standing. 
     

  • Being pre-approved for a mortgage does not impress many sellers, so it is important to be pre-qualified. Talk to different lenders to line up the best deal for you and your budget. 
     

  • Do not overestimate how much you can afford. Avoid properties on your initial search that are truly dream homes. The pre-approval process will offer a reality check because your approved mortgage amount is set. 
     

  • Applying for a loan for a new car, credit cards, or even new furniture to go in your home can hurt your credit score during the mortgage process. 
     

  • Sometimes buyers assume that all costs of buying a house are included in the loan amount, which is not the case. Closing costs, on average, are 2-5% of the purchase price of the home, and there is earnest money and a down payment to be made. 
     

  • Do not let your finances deter you from buying a home! While the process may take more time, there are several programs ready to assist first-time home buyers. Many require less than 20% down. Other programs provide financing for those who live in rural areas, as well as those with credit issues or lower income. Go to realtor.comⓇ for a list of available programs. 

 

You might also believe that it will cost out of pocket to have a RealtorⓇ represent you as a buyer’s agent. Not true! Their fee is paid from the purchase of the home on the seller’s end of the transaction. Your agent will guide you along this winding path but will do all they can to lead you to the house at the end! 

 

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

 

Photo credit: Hunt Mortgage

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Six Quick-Fix Home Repairs

Wednesday, September 22, 2021
by Tucker Robbins


Pinching pennies is nothing new to homeowners, and when something goes wrong, thinking about a hefty service bill can turn many into DIYers! Almost every household has the tools and items needed for these quick and easy fixes: 

 

  • Drywall holes can be intimidating, but there is no need for a drywall expert to come in for this job.  Lowe’s shows us how to patch the hole and spend much less than the cost of a repair bill. 
     

  • A squeaky wood floor can be charming or irritating, so if it is the latter, you can fix it with talcum powder as long as it is not due to a loose board. If it is not loose, sprinkle talcum powder over the seams, and rub it in with your fingers or a thin plastic card. Walk over the area to listen for the squeak, and apply more powder if necessary. 
     

  • Is there a cabinet door that does not want to close completely?  For a few dollars, you can purchase magnet catches and install them in no time. There can be issues with the hinges, too, and it may just need a simple adjustment. 
     

  • The two most common toilet bowl leaks are a leaky flapper or a bad fill valve.   For less than $20, you can replace either of them.  To get started, check out this information from Today’s Homeowner to test for the correct leak, and go from there.  The internet is chock full of videos and how-to articles for either fix. 
     

  • When your clothes dryer drum stops turning, do not fret--the belt is easy and inexpensive to replace, thanks to this guide and video from Sears, and no appliance repair service needs to be called!  
     

  • Doorknobs take a lot of abuse and eventually need replacing, or maybe you just want to upgrade your door hardware. Buildipedia offers this how-to video for this simple project--no locksmith required! 

 

Taking pride in your home sometimes means hiring a pro to take care of things. On other occasions, however, a simple job can be taken care of on your own, so grab your toolbelt, and get to work!  Your wallet will thank you! 

 

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

 

Photo credit: dummies.com

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