Our office closes for the week between Christmas and New Year’s Day.
Traditionally, I read a few books and watch way too much HGTV!
This year, it makes sense to modify my schedule and hibernate for a bit; so I will be working remotely for a few weeks after the holiday break.
Email will be the best way to reach me: ann.delaney@timkerrsir.com
Here’s to a healthy 2021!
First report today from a neighbor of an unoccupied home- water leaking from the outside shower due to a frozen pipe!
Reminder:
A check list for shore owners:
1) Disconnect the garden hose and turn off/drain any faucets that aren’t frost proof (most faucets on decks are NOT frost proof). Turn off and drain the outside shower (often overlooked and those pipes are the first to freeze and break).
2) Close the foundation vents and secure the crawl space door (the newer Smart vents will close automatically).
3) Secure/store trash cans, deck furniture, kayaks, grills, flags, etc.
4) Unless you completely winterize the house (drain the water), turn on the heat to 55- 60 degrees. Â The upper floors can be set slightly lower, but not below 50 degrees. Â A whole house water shut off valve is an extra level of protection against frozen pipes in the event of a power failure.
5) Open the cabinet doors below all sinks to allow heated air to circulate around the pipes.
6) Lock all windows (especially casement style that open with a crank handle) and sliding glass doors. Strong winds can vibrate a door or window open!
7) Unplug small appliances.
8) Check the kitchen sink for any random food items left in the garbage disposal – run with ice cubes or a piece of lemon.
9) Empty and turn off the ice maker if you won’t be using the house for an extended period of time.
10) Open the lid on the washer and prop open the door to the dishwasher to avoid musty odors.
And ideally, hire a winter watch service for peace of mind. Â I am happy to recommend someone if needed.
The stunning homes along the high dunes shine at sunrise!  Even the seagulls turn to look 😎
New on the sale market today!
Wonderful bay location with the bonus of easy access to the beach.
For more details and pictures:  MLS Fact Sheet    Questions?  ann.delaney@timkerrsir.com  or 609-967-7950
Single family homes at the shore typically fit into one of three categories:
1) Tear down- based on the condition, age, or size. Of course we have all watched substantial homes being torn down to make way for new structures!
2) New (or newer)- recently completed; and depending on the quality of construction, custom homes less than 10 years old.
3) The in between home- the most challenging to sell as a summer/vacation home.
Even if the home has been well maintained (new roof or siding for example) the floor plan and amenities are important factors to interest a potential buyer.
Some issues such as ceiling height or an obsolete layout require more than just a cosmetic fix. Â And managing a renovation project from a distance can be overwhelming.
The current low interest rates provide options for a buyer to justify a higher purchase price for a “new” home.
With an in between home, the land value is the base, and continues to appreciate. Â So as a real estate agent, I try to answer two questions: Â What is the value (to a buyer) of the structure? Â And at what price point does to make more sense for a buyer to purchase a tear down (at land value) and build?
If the layout is functional, updates will help retain the value. Â Our HGTV era buyers love new kitchens and baths, as well as uniform flooring such as wood or a high end laminate product.
It can be hard to look at your summer house objectively- especially if it suits your family just fine. Â So, consider any upgrades a savvy business decision for your important investment!
Rental bookings for 2021 are slightly ahead compared to this same time last year.
A few observations based on my local experience, as well as discussions with nearby shore town real estate agents:
1) We have lost some rental inventory due to owners opting to keep their properties available for family use. Â This may be a temporary situation based on current limitations for other travel.
2) More tenants are looking for multiple weeks. Â They know that a beach vacation can be a safe break, and a happy experience to plan.
3) Even our long time regular repeats are signing leases and sending in checks early. Â They want to be certain their reservations are secured!
4) Homes with pools continue to be popular- ideal for social distancing.
5) There are many requests for pet friendly rentals. Â Two of our pet friendly rentals sold this fall, and are no longer an option. Â Tenants are willing to pay a surcharge and provide references if an owner will consider their dog (often it’s on a case by case basis).
6) Our rental inventory is constantly changing. Â Search our web site and contact me to discuss! Â Tim Kerr Sotheby’s web site
Thank you for your interest! Â ann.delaney@timkerrsir.com
If you know anyone looking for an extended vacation rental next summer, our new inventory provides great options!
For example: 422 99th Street, Stone Harbor
I am here to help with any questions: Â ann.delaney@timkerrsir.com
A check list for shore owners:
1) Disconnect the garden hose and turn off/drain any faucets that aren’t frost proof (most faucets on decks are NOT frost proof). Turn off and drain the outside shower (often overlooked and those pipes are the first to freeze and break).
2) Close the foundation vents and secure the crawl space door (the newer Smart vents will close automatically).
3) Secure/store trash cans, deck furniture, kayaks, grills, flags, etc.
4) Unless you completely winterize the house (drain the water), turn on the heat to 55- 60 degrees. Â The upper floors can be set slightly lower, but not below 50 degrees. Â A whole house water shut off valve is an extra level of protection against frozen pipes in the event of a power failure.
5) Open the cabinet doors below all sinks to allow heated air to circulate around the pipes.
6) Lock all windows (especially casement style that open with a crank handle) and sliding glass doors. Strong winds can vibrate a door or window open!
7) Unplug small appliances.
8) Check the kitchen sink for any random food items left in the garbage disposal – run with ice cubes or a piece of lemon.
9) Empty and turn off the ice maker if you won’t be using the house for an extended period of time.
10) Open the lid on the washer and prop open the door to the dishwasher to avoid musty odors.
And ideally, hire a winter watch service for peace of mind. Â I am happy to recommend someone if needed.
A bit chilly today! Â Fall has arrived, yet we know “summer” will visit several times through to October.
Vacationers and property owners are enjoying the extended season, but the island is definitely less hectic.
The sale market continues at an incredible pace. Â In Avalon and Stone Harbor, there are a record 144 properties sale pending with settlements scheduled in the coming weeks/months. Â That’s a huge turn over of shore homes.
Several of our rental property owners have decided to keep their homes for family use in 2021. Â With the uncertainty of the coming year, time spent in their beach house is a priority.
Likewise, potential tenants are motivated to secure their vacation rentals for next summer; with many requesting multiple weeks.
We hope the reduction of rental inventory will not be an overall trend for 2021, especially with the high demand.
It’s Labor Day weekend, and that means time to plan ahead for summer of 2021!
Tenants (both repeat and new) are waiting for confirmation of their preferred rental dates.
The increased level of interest for next summer is logical under the circumstances. Â Families know that a shore vacation provides the needed break in an environment that feels safe.
We mailed our 2021 Rental Listing Agreements out last week, and I am looking forward to talking with property owners in preparation of another busy season.
If you are an Avalon or Stone Harbor homeowner thinking about offering your property for rent, I’m here to help.
609-967-7950 or ann.delaney@timkerrsir.com