More daylight for beach walks

Now we just need to work on those cold temperatures!!

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Higher interest rates for 2nd home loans?

Effective April 1, 2022, Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac will implement an interest rate surcharge for some second home loans.
houseThis will apply only to conforming loans (less than $647,500).
I heard from one larger lender that they have a plan to originate and portfolio these loans so that the interest rates posted for primary homes can be the same for 2nd homes (similar policy for jumbo loans).
There is a solution.  I am happy to provide a reference for an area mortgage representative to help.
ann.delaney@timkerrsir.com
609-967-7950
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Snow at the Shore

As far as blizzards go, this one was manageable.

Thankfully, no issues with flooding or power outages.  And the municipal workers did a great job clearing the streets.

It looks pretty, but I’m ready for the big melt!

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Rental Agent, Landlord and Tenant

For 40 years, I have worked with property owners in Avalon and Stone Harbor as a vacation rental agent.  The booking and processing side of the job have evolved with technology, yet tenants and owners still appreciate the personal service of an on-site professional.

This experience transfers over to my role as a landlord.  My husband and I work hard to meet the expectations of our guests.  Owner visits are essential to check/replace supplies and “spring clean” several times a year.  Our approach: if they find a well maintained property, the tenants will (hopefully) respect and care for our condo during their stay.

And occasionally, I’m a tenant.

Earlier this month, I rented a home in Naples, Florida to celebrate milestone birthdays with my sisters.  Although the owner was responsive when I reported several issues, the “tenant” in me was a bit frustrated.   Waiting to see if a tenant complains is not the best landlord strategy!

Often it’s the simple items that make a difference: plenty of hangers in the closets, extra towel bars and hooks in the bathrooms, a full length mirror, clean cushions for the outdoor furniture, new shower curtain liners, and a starter supply of detergent, toilet paper, paper towels and trash bags.

If you have questions, I’m here to help!

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January Beach Days

With the right attire, EVERY day is a beach day 😉

Bright sunshine and no wind for this morning’s walk- almost felt balmy!

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Wrapping up 2021

This past year was a bit of a roller coaster, and at times blurring completely with 2020!

Work was hectic (another banner season for sales and rentals at the shore). Families were once again grateful to spend time at the beach.

In between, we were able to juggle our own family gatherings, including a beautiful wedding last May.

There were plenty of beach walks and bike rides.  Outdoor dining is still the norm. The popular TK Charities events resumed (I’m a volunteer…not participant!)  And our towns creatively hosted numerous outdoor events.

So what do we expect for 2022?

Demand remains strong for summer rentals and vacation home purchases.  And the islandwide construction boom continues.

Personally, we are looking forward to traveling again- with a BIG trip planned for next fall.  We are hoping for the best (and of course purchased travel insurance).

My wish for all of us:  less stress, more laughter, and good health in 2022!

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The Real Seashore Santa

This entry was originally posted Christmas 2008.  The blog post and Santa were both updated in 2018!

SisterSanta

Santa– the life size plywood cut out version- has been an important part of Christmas for as long as I can remember.

Santa began his life of service in the early 1960s at my parents’ first house in Avalon.  He was surrounded by big, multi-colored bulbs on the newly planted shrubs.  Inside that modest Golden Home rancher, 4 little girls hung their stockings on a cardboard fireplace with a plug in red bulb that magically turned the metal wheel to create “fire” .

In the 1970s, Santa moved with our family 5 blocks south in Avalon to a larger, 2 story home with a real wood fireplace.  The colorful exterior lights were eventually replaced with more subtle white bulbs, but the spot light literally remained on Santa.

In the off season, Santa hung proudly on the garage wall- watching us all come and go.  Those little girls grew up and moved out, bringing back grandchildren for days on the beach.  In the 1980s, my young sons were fascinated by Santa, and maybe a bit intimidated based on our attempts to use him for improved behavior!

When my parents downsized to a townhouse in the early 1990s, my father asked if I wanted Santa for our home.  Of course, I was thrilled- and Santa didn’t complain as he was forced to leave Avalon and move “off shore”.

Santa loyally followed us on each move- knowing that he would be given a prominent position (with a flood light) at Christmas.   Years later, he gratefully moved back to the island to become a Stone Harbor resident!

Now coasting past his mid-50s, Santa was showing signs of wear (aren’t we all).

For several years, I thought about arranging a touch up, but it just didn’t feel right.   Thankfully, our niece offered her artistic talents - a perfect fit!

So the newly refreshed Santa is back in his designated spot in front of our home- ready to face another 50+ years by the beach 😎

santa

SantaAnn

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New Year’s Eve in Avalon NJ

Fireworks on Friday, December 31st at 5pm.

Families are encouraged to access the beach at 30th and 32nd Street for best viewing (and safety).

Events and entertainment prior to the fireworks- starting at 3:30pm at Surfside Park (30th Street and the boardwalk).

Rain date,  Saturday evening, January 1st.

For more information:  Visit Avalon Web Site

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An Early Christmas at the Beach

An Avalon beach house was the perfect setting for our family gathering yesterday.

The weather wasn’t perfect, so “Santa” had to move inside for group pictures 😉

MomMom and many of her grandchildren and great grandchildren were on hand.

And the Delaneys from Stone Harbor and beyond enjoyed a fun visit ❤️

Merry, merry 🎄

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2021 to 2022

Does anyone else hesitate when writing the date?

Wasn’t it JUST 2000, and we were uncertain of the correct pronunciation?  Two Thousand; two thousand and one, etc.

And are we finally comfortable using the abbreviated version:  Twenty, twenty one?  It only took me 20 years to adapt 😉

With the transition to 2022, I’ve been thinking about major events that pushed me to change.

Not long after 9/11, I realized that the agency and the management position I held were no longer a good fit.  I missed the “sales” part of real estate, and needed a different office environment.

I’m grateful that I could join my friends one block away. Now 19 years and counting, working at Tim Kerr Sotheby’s (with occasional visits from little helpers!)

For the past 2 years, all of us have navigated the uncertainties of the pandemic.   A rental condo that we purchased in 2019 has become a safe escape with my new “work from home” skills.  I doubt we would be spending as much time there under ordinary circumstances.  I’m grateful for the change of perspective.

For 2022, I will continue to look for the positive experiences that shape our lives.

Wishing you the same…

Boys

 

 

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