Author: ann

  • Breaks of Sun

    Gloomy morning, and now bright sunshine for the afternoon.

    Humid air with temperatures in the 70’s…summer weather on a late October day.

    Normal COOLER weather expected for the Halloween weekend.

  • Remember Last Winter?

    This is hard to imagine with current temperatures in the 70’s!  Yet, we know the cold weather will eventually arrive.

    Is your shore house ready?  Last winter was the exception with record snow fall and extended power outages.  Unfortunately, cold temperatures and high winds are still the norm.

    Exposed water pipes are at risk for freezing (outside showers and pipes under the house).  If you don’t drain the inside pipes, is your heat set to at least 55 degrees?  Have you secured your outdoor furniture and trash cans?

    Hiring someone to regularly inspect your property in the off season provides peace of mind.  A winter watch includes: walk through, check of all doors and windows, confirmation of functioning heater, and inspection for minor problems that can turn into a major headache if left unattended for several months.

    If you need a recommendation for a reliable inspector, please let me know.  ann@anndelaney.com

  • Beach Weather

    Such a pretty view.  Of course I think that each day as I start my beach walk.

    We expect temperatures in the 70’s over the next 3 days- not bad for the end of October. 

    Enjoy!

  • Time for Work??

    I have been blogging for 4 years…tweeting for 1…YouTubing (a verb?) for several months…and now the pressure of Facebook!

    When I was younger, I kept a diary.  Years later, it evolved to a journal.  So, a blog is the natural progression- a place to share my thoughts…only no longer tucked away in a drawer. 

    My Beach Blog is the equivalent of a newsletter.  I use Twitter to post “breaking news”, restaurant info, and seashore pictures.  YouTube has been a unique way to promote sale and rental properties (as well as the beach restoration project).  Yet, other than viewing  family pictures, I’m not clear on the value of Facebook.  It feels more like stalking than connecting.  But, without Facebook, I won’t know what time to show for Thanksgiving dinner 😉

  • Avalon Elementary

    The first annual Avalon Elementary Reunion was held tonight at the Windrift Bar.  The main purpose- raising funds for a community track/ fitness stations in the school yard.

    A large turn out, with a mix of parents, local residents, and alumni.  Great to see familiar faces and “not so old” former classmates!

    My 7th grade class is featured on the Just For Fun page of the booklet- 23 students with really bad hair 😉

    P.S.  Received a call today that I won 2 silent auction gifts Saturday night.  Thank you to the reunion committee and the generous sponsors!

  • Market Stats- Avalon & Stone Harbor

    During the past 30 days, 20 properties SOLD on the island; with an additional 46 sale pending (settlement in the near future).

    The sold properties ranged from $310,000 for a hotel/condo on 79th Street, to $2,815,000 for a large custom home on 65th Street.  There were 16 sales in Avalon, and 4 in Stone Harbor.  11 were single family homes; 9 condo/townhouse units.  4 beach block; 3 bay front.  The median selling price was $1,277,500.

    Of of 46 sale pending, 16 are in Stone Harbor; 30 in Avalon.  The median list price is $957,500.

  • Beach Sweep

    Join your Avalon and Stone Harbor neighbors for the 25th Annual Fall Beach Sweep this Saturday, October 23rd.

    Enjoy a morning walk along the sand while contributing to a clean environment.  Volunteers will meet at 9am on 30th Street in Avalon, and on 95th Street in Stone Harbor.  For more information: http://www.cleanoceanaction.org/

  • Weekend Visit

    Back home after a long weekend visit to the mountains of North Carolina. 

    Saw changing leaves… and adorable grandchildren!

  • Before the rain…

    It was mild and sunny this morning for my beach walk. 

    Unfortunately, the afternoon view from my office window is dark and dreary.

    The sun is scheduled to return tomorrow…

  • Seashore Landlords

    Sheets and towels?  Basic amenities for any vacation rental. 

    Yet, summer rentals at the Jersey Shore continue the custom of tenants supplying their own bedding and towels.  Based on my personal travel/renting experiences, we may be one of the last areas with this requirement.

    I met with the owner of www.relaxconcierge.com today and we discussed options for landlords and tenants.  Currently, there are several local companies (including Relax Concierge) offering sheet/towel rentals for tenants.  Another approach would be for owners to contract for the service and offer it as an amenity.

    This “perk” would be welcomed and appreciated by tenants- especially those renting large homes.  The cost (an average of $160 per week for a four bedroom home) could be built in to the rental rate, similar to cleaning fees.

    A unique way to set your shore rental property apart from the competition.