Conquering Fear

The last time I kayaked in the ocean, it didn’t end well.  It was almost 1 year ago, and I tanked while heading over the first set of waves.  I was tossed (twisting my back), and then hit by the kayak (providing a lovely black eye).  Needless to say, I didn’t go back out again for the rest of the season.

Bay kayaking is more of a controlled environment.  Calm water and the safety net of nearby docks.

For 2013, my plan was to make sure I had enough arm strength and confidence from bay kayaking before facing the ocean again.

And today was the day.  A quiet morning, low tide, no wind…all the right conditions.

As I rolled the kayak onto the beach, there was a fisherman at the water’s edge.  Oh good…a lifeguard!  Apparently, he did not understand his responsibilities because he left soon after I launched.  Oh well, the drivers of the beach tractors were my back up.

So, I successfully paddled over the waves and out to the calm water.  Watched a beautiful sunrise…and conquered my fear.  Only disappointment?  No dolphins (my main motivation for ocean kayaking).  Will have to try again soon  🙂

MondayKayaking

 

 

 

 

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FEMA Flood Maps

According to municipal officials, Cape May County property owners will be able to view the revised flood maps as of August 19th.

Municipalities will have until November 29th to work with FEMA to correct any additional areas they think are improperly zoned.
I’m not certain if the current link will be updated, or if a new link will be provided.  For reference, this is the existing link: FEMA Web Site 

Type in a property address in the box above the map, and click “Get Details”.  While the flood zone may change (many of the V zone locations are expected to revert back to the preferred A zone ), the elevation requirement will likely remain as stated.

Although the final maps aren’t due to be released until August 2015 (for flood insurance rating purposes), construction offices will be referencing the revised maps in order to issue building permits.

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Saturday Sun

Beautiful morning.  Watched the surfers AND dolphins riding in the waves.

Now in work, and ready for another big rental change over day…

saturday copy

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Beach Scenes

Pretty, even on a dreary day…

P.S.  The SUN is out in Avalon.  Hurry to the beach 🙂

Rain
SHPoint

 

 

StoneHarbor

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Picking a Dream House

Even though I live here, I still play the “What house would I buy” game.  Admit it…you play it, too.

Basic premise:  If I win the lottery (or someone pays me millions of dollars to sponsor my blog), I need to know what house to buy.  My choices change all the time. Walking and kayaking provide ample opportunity to review the options.

For instance, I have a current favorite bay property.  It’s not the house as much as an incredible water front location.  And it’s for sale…which means that someone else will have an opportunity long before me 🙁     Not to worry…I will move on.

A sample from this morning’s kayaking review:

bayhouses

 

 

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The Post-Sandy Look

You may have noticed the towering heights of  homes under construction on the island.  While waiting for the final FEMA maps to be published, officials in Avalon and Stone Harbor issued building permits based on the preliminary data approved by Governor Christie.

Near the bay,  this includes the much discussed “V-Zone”.

The cottage pictured was lifted and placed off to the side so that pilings could be driven into the ground.  The house was placed back on the pilings, and will now be totally renovated.   The lower level can be cosmetically covered with break away walls.

V zone construction allows water to flow freely under a home- preventing structural damage caused by the pressure of flood waters on a solid block foundation.

vzonehouse

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Priced to Sell Cottage

LindenLane 2Charming Stone Harbor cottage in move in condition.  Modern kitchen and tub/shower bath.  2 full size bedrooms.  Great room with cathedral ceiling.  Covered porch. Central air and gas heat (suitable for year round use).

Quiet residential neighborhood. Walking distance to the beach and recreation area.  Convenient to restaurants and shops.

An ideal alternative to a small condo purchase- you actually OWN the home and the land.

Very reasonable property taxes and up keep expenses, too.

Click here for the MLS fact sheet

$549,000 fully furnished.

Contact me for more details.  Thank you for your interest!

ann@anndelaney.com

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What’s Selling?

There were a total of 26 properties in Avalon and Stone Harbor sold (settlement) in the past 30 days.

salesign1 multi-family on 93rd Street sold for $775,000.

7 condo/townhouse styles sold, ranging in price from $160,000 for a 1 bedroom unit located over a commercial building on 83rd Street; to $1,026,500 for a 2400 square foot side by side style on 87th Street.  The median selling price for condo/townhouse units: $505,000.

18 single family homes sold, ranging from $825,000 for a home built in 2003 on 23rd Street; to $2,975,000 for a beach block home with a pool built in 2000 on 113th Street. The median selling price for single family homes: $1,785,000.

In addition, there are a record 65 properties in Avalon, Stone Harbor sale pending, with a median asking price of $1,150,000.

Please let me know if I can provide more specifics.  Thank you for your interest!  ann@anndelaney.com

 

 

 

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Planning for 2014

Yes, this was our biggest check in weekend…so it makes sense to starting planning ahead for our 2014 rental season!

The expectations of a beach rental have obviously changed over the years.  A basic property is likely to be passed over in favor of the updated “Coastal Living” décor home.

RentSighSo what do tenants need/want?

Large HD televisions with full cable package (one main set, with additional sets in bedrooms)

Wireless Internet – has become a necessity

Newer mattresses/ attractive bed coverings (some owners are providing linen service to gain a competitive edge)

Newer furniture and flooring

Newer appliances- including kitchen counter top items

Air conditioning (with a service contract for prompt repairs)

Well stocked kitchen, extra light bulbs, some paper products, cleaning products, and bug spray (for the common summer ants)

Comfortable deck/porch furniture

Grill with a wire brush to keep it clean

Extra trash/recycle cans (the average home needs 3 cans for regular trash, and 2 for recycling items)

Welcome Book with information & instructions (especially regarding the electronics)

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Sunday Morning

A lazy Sunday morning for some:  during my beach walk, I was out pacing the dolphins swimming just past the wave break 😉

sunday

 

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