My logical side knows that I have time before the weather turns cold. Yet I’m feeling the pressure of “one last day for ….”
I’m regularly checking the tide schedule to see how I can fit in kayaking before or after work. And, definitely a few hours on the beach. Oh, and a bike ride now that the summer traffic is gone.Â
Even the daily sunrise and sunset- the colors this time of year are so incredible…I hate to miss even one!
The burden of island life 😉
Wow! Looking at the weekly rate sheets provided by the various lenders active in our market- what an incredible opportunity for a new purchase or re-financing.
For a 30 year fixed rate mortgage, the published interest rates range from 3.5% to 4% (depending on amount borrowed). For a 15 year fixed mortgage, even lower from 2.625% to 3%.
What does this mean in real dollars? Even a 1% difference provides significant savings (or allows you to buy up).Â
For example: $800,000 loan. Not long ago, an interest rate of 4.875% was the norm (jumbo rate). If you calculate and compare the mortgage payment at the current rate of 3.875%, the same loan will cost $472 LESS each month (a total savings of $5,662 a year). Â
If you have been on the fence regarding a shore purchase…what could be a better incentive?
If you would like a recommendation for a knowledgeable mortgage representative, please let me know.   ann@anndelaney.com
And of course, I appreciate the opportunity to help you with a purchase in Avalon or Stone Harbor.
I know I’m on the beach early when I see the glow of the Wildwood Ferris wheel in the distance!  The lights are turned off at sunrise.
Another perfect September morning :)Â Enjoy the weekend.
Time to start our off-season adventures: yesterday it was a bike ride along the Wildwood boardwalk.
We started at the beginning of the boardwalk in North Wildwood-Â through the crowds in town for the annual Firemen’s Convention- and then along the beach side bike path in Wildwood Crest.
Our lunch break on the way back was at Sam’s Pizza. And, under the category “only at the shore”, there was a group of local school children there on a field trip!
With the date change for the annual Wings n’ Water Festival (held in July this year), the Stone Harbor Chamber of Commerce organized a replacement event:
Savor September- Food and Wine Festival. 96th Street shopping district on Saturday, September 15th. 12 noon to 8pm.
Those of us working all weekend appreciate that the music and food vendors will be on hand past 5pm- looking forward to stopping by after work.Â
For more information, click here:  schedule of events
My early morning view (from a kayak)…the calm water reflecting the homes facing the bay. So peaceful…
I attended the dedication ceremony for the 9/11 Memorial Plaza this morning, and then stopped back this afternoon for a closer look.Â
So impressed…
Note the bronze time stamps in the pavers. Each September 11th, the World Trade Center steel beam will create a shadow over the specific stamp signifying each event; an especially thoughtful aspect of the project.
September sunsets are amazing…even from the beach.
With our busy summer season coming to an end, it’s common to hear local business people talk about their upcoming vacation plans. And it’s ironic to note the destinations…mostly other beach areas!
Our favorite travel spots are likewise surrounded by water (even if it’s man made like Disney World!). We will include the occasional city in our plans, yet prefer the more familiar pace of island life.
While traveling, it’s hard not to compare with our environment. For instance, I was shocked by the beaches in California- including the access paths which often require climbing down a cliff. A bit more rugged than a walk through the dunes in Avalon! Or, locations with high rises adjacent to the water. In Avalon and Stone Harbor, we are spoiled by a beautiful, 7 mile long stretch of sand, with views of vegetation and attractive residential homes.
I find it valuable to be on the other side of the counter- as a tenant in a vacation rental property, a guest in a hotel, and/or tourist with a guide book searching for a particular site.  Each travel experience provides a hands on education, and makes me a better real estate agent.Â
Looking forward to our next planned “learning experience” in October!
September Views
The incredible views continue- this picture was taken last night just after sunset.