Ann Delaney Beach Blog

Author: ann

  • Across the Pond

    My grandparents made the long journey to America in the early 1900’s.  My grandfather from Northern Ireland, and my grandmother from the Republic of Ireland (after studying the history, I have a better understanding of the difference).  They met in Philadelphia, raised 6 children, summered in Stone Harbor, and eventually settled in Avalon in the late 1950’s.

    My husband and I will travel to Northern Ireland this week.  My goal is to walk along our beach Tuesday, and then walk along the Irish Sea on Wednesday!  We are staying in Newcastle- a low key east coast seaside town (hey, that sounds familiar).

    I am looking forward to finding distant relatives while my husband plays golf!  Sláinte

  • Borrowing to Buy

    The mortgage environment has certainly changed, but lenders are finding ways to work within the new guidelines.  For example, many seashore buyers secure 2 loans to complete a purchase:  the 1st loan of $417,000 (a “conforming” loan with an attractive interest rate); and a home equity line against their primary home for the balance.  This enables the buyer to avoid the higher interest rate charged for “jumbo” loans.

    When selecting a loan for a vacation home, it’s important to think ahead.  Are you likely to own the house for 30 years and pay off the loan?  Or, realistically, will you hold the house for 10 years and then trade up to another location/property style?  If a 10 year holding period is more likely, a 10 year interest only mortgage may be a more cost effective fit.

    If you would like recommendations for mortgage representatives in the Avalon and Stone Harbor area, please let me know.

  • Avalon- Beach Access for 2008

    Mayor Martin Pagliughi recently sent a letter to the residents of Avalon regarding the beach in the north end.  Due to permit issues with the State of New Jersey, the Borough may not be able to restore the paths to the beach between 10th and 15th Streets.

    He assured the property owners that “if nature helps to correct the situation between 10th and 15th Streets, we will reopen the paths immediately”.

  • Sunrise Service

    sunrise.jpg When I look at the sun breaking through the clouds over the ocean on a beautiful morning, I can’t help associating nature with religion.  It reminds me to be thankful for the gifts in my life and think about family and friends no longer here.  It’s my version of a sunrise service- very appropriate for Easter.  Enjoy the weekend!

  • High Tide and Windy!

    hightide.jpg     Stormy day at the shore.  Hopefully the weather will improve for the holiday weekend.  Happy Easter!

    hightide2.jpg

  • Stone Harbor Bird Sanctuary- update

     birdsanctuary.jpg  Work is underway to create walking paths through the Bird Santuary located between 111th and 117th Streets in Stone Harbor.  The entry point will be 114th and Third Avenue.  This project will be funded primarily through private donations.

    http://www.stone-harbor.nj.us/Bird-Sanctuary/Site/Introduction.html

  • Early Easter = Early Season

    The bulb flowers in our little yard are doing their best to be out for Easter.  The local shops and restaurants have the same plan.

    There will be OPEN signs at the Windrift Restaurant, Claude’s in North Wildwood (originally Stone Harbor based- and locals are happy to travel across the bridge for a wonderful meal), Via Mare, and many of 96th Street retail shops.

    Enjoy an early spring visit to the shore!

  • Air Show

    Did anyone else see the Red Baron style bi-plane practicing stunts over the ocean this weekend? We watched the spins, flips, and free falls as the sun set- a free air show in Stone Harbor!

  • The Lights are On…

    You know you are ready for spring when it’s exciting to see lights on in houses as you drive through town!

    Tortilla Flats and Avalon Coffee are now open on weekends.  The Concord Cafe will open next week (we live for the restaurants to return).

    Washed off my deck furniture yesterday and actually sat in the sun for a bit (out of the wind of course).

  • Just Another Day at the Beach

    beachmarch3.jpg Nothing profound…just another beautiful view as I begin my morning walk.  Still wearing a hat and gloves, but the sun was trying to break through.  I’m anxious for warmer temperatures…a few more weeks to go!