Did you hear that?? It’s the sound of property owners gasping as they open last month’s electric bill.Â
Due to the excessive heat and humidity, air conditioners have been running steady for most of the summer. Even frugal owners who set the thermostat at 78/79 degrees and close their west facing blinds (like me) are shocked by the amount of the bill.
Thankful for a comfortable, dry breeze this morning. Fresh air is once again swirling around the inside of my house!
I admire an organized family 🙂
The Borough of Avalon introduced their new emergency web site recently:
Worthwhile to save this link as a resource for local updates during a storm (along with my blog of course!)
A sign of fall?Â
The birders are returning to Stone Harbor Point.
I noticed a couple sitting IN the water this morning to capture their shot. And another woman was walking toward the ocean with a large camera and tripod.
‘Tis the season!
P.S. A fun treat- this is what happens when a photographer/videographer vacations in Stone Harbor: http://vimeo.com/47427544
Was able to walk between rain showers this morning 🙂
Have a nice weekend!
A few tips for those interested:
I initially started kayaking on the bay in an open hull boat. The owner of Harbor Outfitters recommended this style because it’s reasonably light weight, stable, and I stay dry (especially important when I go out in the spring and fall).
A few years later, I ventured out in the ocean when the woman renting a neighbor’s property asked if we wanted to buy the “purple monster” (pictured) after her vacation. She had purchased it new just 2 weeks before, but did not want to take it home. The boat’s nickname should have been a clue!
The ocean kayak is a solid, sit on top model. It’s heavy (when it hits you) and you definitely get wet!
So when to go?
For the bay, high tide is the main preference. I love when the bay looks like a sheet of glass; however the still air can also mean the gnats will be brutal. A light breeze and a calm bay are ideal. The current in an open channel can be rough- so paddling around the basins is a safer bet. For me, it’s a fun perspective of the homes.
On the ocean, my preference is low tide, and “lake like” conditions. Others may prefer the waves, but that’s not my skill set ;)  Early morning seems to work best- calmer winds…and dolphins!
Bay or beach, I ALWAYS wear a life vest.
P.S. Decided to re-post a picture from last summer.
This is my sister who made the comment about securing (prescription) sun glasses when kayaking in the ocean.
Wonder why??
Only funny when it happens to someone else 😉
This is the “before” picture taken on Saturday morning (105th Street, Stone Harbor):
I posted the “during” shot in my previous blog post (still without a clue of the purpose or event).
And this is the “after” picture- The Sand Guys finished their creation last night:
The artist was hired to create the sculpture for a private individual (depicting his varied interests and activities).  The Sand Guys can also be seen on the Discovery Channel.
Check it out if you are in the area!
I noticed the large pile of sand Saturday morning on 105th Street, Stone Harbor.
It became an immediate attraction for the kids on the beach!
As of late yesterday afternoon, the sand was being transformed into “beach art”.
Will check it out again today after work for an update.
When you live on an island, there are countless opportunities for unique water views; from hazy mornings…
to colorful evenings…
Summer of 2013?
As tenants check out, we ask them if they would like to reserve for 2013. Although we won’t send leases until later in the fall, the property owners are pleased to know their happy tenants plan to return.
The vacation rental business continues to evolve. This summer, there were numerous requests to allow a dog (or dogs). And more owners were willing to consider a pet if we had some past experience with the tenant. It’s a huge transition from the strict “no pets” policies of the past.
Most homes and condos are now completely non-smoking; and many no longer supply a land line phone. Yet wireless Internet is a necessity!
Our biggest issues continue to be with cleaning and trash. The homes are growing larger (with more baths) and the change over cleaners struggle to thoroughly clean in the short window of time allowed. By this point in the season, ceiling fans, return vents, outside showers, and grills need more TLC. It’s helpful for owners to make a few trips during the summer to tackle the extra tasks.
With trash- the more containers, the merrier. Recycling is only picked up once per week; and on vacation, cans and bottles accumulate fast.  The new tenant will complain if all of the receptacles are filled when they arrive- requiring the purchase of additional cans or hiring someone to haul away the trash.
If Power Play Realty can help with your 2013 summer rentals or vacation plans, please let me know. I appreciate the business! ann@anndelaney.com