Flooding- a common topic as we toured the charming villages along the Rhine River.
Tour guides pointed out the water levels from historic storms, and talked about the practical preparations of shop keepers and residents during a flood warning.
And although they didn’t minimize the devastation or damage, the guides were quick to point out that residents deal with it, and continue on with their lives.
The reality of life by the water!
Local residents definitely appreciate the perks of living “at the shore”.
For those of us working in tourist related industries, the summer is also our busiest time of the year.
So, the arrival of fall means it’s our turn for vacation!
Our travel is purposely planned to miss only one weekend of work.  I will be back in the office  Saturday morning, October 14th.
Will post a few pictures of our adventures on Twitter…
So far, the rain and wind are moderate.
But the ocean is letting us know that Jose is out there off the coast!
As I watch the weather, I am also thinking about the island residents in the Caribbean. Â Such a heartbreaking situation…
If you admire this beautiful Stone Harbor landmark, please consider assisting with maintenance and upkeep by supporting the annual Nuns’ Beach Surfing Event (Saturday morning, September 16th at 111th Street beach).  Big waves forecasted!
The lovely Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary will be on site selling coffee, donuts, and the popular Nuns’ Beach wear.
Donations can be mailed to Villa Maria by the Sea, 11101 First Avenue, Stone Harbor NJ 08247  c/0 Sister James Dolores, IHM
Villa Maria by the Sea  1937- 2014  (through the years…and seasons!)
Normally, I’m not one to quote Governor Chris Christie, however his tweet says it best:
“Everyone in NJ understands how Floridians feel tonight. We have sent NJSP, NJ Nat’l Guard & NJ utility men. We stand with you today & always”
https://twitter.com/GovChristie/status/906723195100823552
As the busy summer rental season winds down, this is a good time to review the most common tenant concerns/complaints.
Helpful information for shore property owners as we plan for 2018:
1) Trash – if too few receptacles (trash and recycling) or if the previous tenant fails to put the cans out in time for the scheduled trash days, the new tenants have no room for their garbage. Â Options are to hire someone to haul away the excess trash, or purchase additional cans. Â Although we mention the specific trash and recycling days to the tenants at check in, a note prominently displayed in the house (and plenty of cans) will help.
2) Grills- Â the cleaning crews typically don’t check on the condition of the gas grill. Â We rely on the tenant to clean up the grates after use. Â Unfortunately, many forget. Â Supplying a wire brush helps, along with a posted reminder to empty the drip pan below the grill. Â With more property owners converting to a natural gas hook up, swapping out the propane tanks has become less of an issue. Â But if you have a propane grill, leave an extra tank on site.
3) Electronics- every house is one wrong button or remote away from television frustration! Step by step instructions and labeled remotes are key. Â A renter suggested a list of the TV channels? Â “It seems to take me a while to learn where channels are and I forget year to year. ”
4) Beach tags- one of my owners had an excellent solution for beach tags. Â He pinned the tags to one or two of the beach chairs they provided for the tenants. This way the tags stayed at the house at the end of the tenant’s week.
5) Cleaning- even with a thorough spring cleaning, properties start to show wear and tear by mid-summer. Â Change over cleanings do not include ceiling fans, air conditioning return vents, deck furniture, outside showers, etc. Â Worthwhile to arrange a more thorough cleaning by August, or if practical, ride down for one or two of the change overs to handle the extra items.
I am happy to walk through your property and discuss suggested rates and/or improvements. Â Â ann.delaney@timkerrsir.com
Sunday, September 3rd- Â the annual Tim Kerr Charities 7 Mile Run/5K Run at 8:30am.
Avalon Community Hall
For more information:
 http://www.timkerrcharities.org/events/7-mile-island-run/
