I needed a place for my random thoughts and pictures.
In addition to this blog and my Twitter account, I’ve kept a journal since last March, and created a Shutterfly book at the end of 2020.
I’m glad I documented this crazy time. Â And I’m SO grateful for vaccines and the feeling of hope!
More daylight and warmer temperatures headed our way…
What a difference a few weeks, days, hours make. My head is spinning!
To contrast the scary news, I need to remain grateful for:
Family (including the 3 most charming grandsons ever).
Caring co-workers helping each other so we all remain safe.
A close knit business community.
The opportunity to walk a few blocks to the ocean, breathe in salt air, and shed a few tears.
I think we are all reviewing our lives from the past 12 months- trying to make sense of an unfathomable situation.
So many recent conversations start with “this time last year…”
For example, my March 11, 2020 tweet:
We live in a town where “social distancing and isolation” are the definition of our winter!
Yet I’m still feeling anxious. Grateful for the opportunity to regularly breathe in salt air and walk the beach…
Looking forward to a better 2021 for all of us.
I feel so fortunate that family members are getting vaccinated. Â Yet I also realize this is not the experience for all.
We have the privilege of Internet access with numerous devices to log on to get a spot in the queue.
We have the privilege of transportation to the Atlantic City mega center.
We have the privilege of flexibility with our jobs to accept the vaccination appointment given.
Hopefully the system continues to improve to allow for even greater inclusion.
Another busy summer of visitors arriving soon!
1) With limitations and concerns about indoor dining, 2020 tenants prepared more meals at their rental homes. Â The trend is likely to continue in 2021. Â Inventory your kitchen with this in mind and replace well used cookie sheets, frying pans, utensils, etc. Â Make sure to run the oven’s cleaning cycle prior to your first guest.
2) Gas grills have always been popular. Â Check on the condition of the grates, and grill tools.
3) Some owners are creating “work/learn from home” space in their properties. Â Adding a simple desk (by wall outlets of course) is a practical and appreciated update.
4) We expect another extended rental season. Â Realistically, the change over cleaning crews have limited time, so it’s helpful if owners plan one or two in person visits during the summer. Â Check the ceiling fans and HVAC return vents for dust, clean the outdoor shower, and organize/clean the deck furniture. Â If distance makes this impractical , work with your cleaner to tackle a few add on tasks throughout the summer months.
5) Speaking of deck furniture-the value of outdoor living space has never been greater! Look at your pieces objectively for comfort, cleanliness and function.
Planning for summer is a wonderful distraction from our snowy February!
I am here to help with any questions in the meantime.
Our web site: Tim Kerr Sotheby’s International Realty  is easy to navigate for sales and vacation rental searches in the Avalon, Stone Harbor NJ area (including the Multiple Listing Service).
For potential buyers , it’s worthwhile to talk with a lender in advance.  With historically LOW interest rates, you may be pleasantly surprised by your purchasing power! I am happy to recommend an experienced mortgage representative  to start the process.
If you are planning a summer vacation, I am familiar with the rental properties and can help with your selection.
ann.delaney@timkerrsir.com   609-967-7950
Happy Valentine’s Day!
Presidents Day weekend is traditionally the start of our season. Â Businesses begin to open, and we see more property owners here to check on their homes.
Our sale and rental markets are already running at a fast pace.
As we approach summer of 2021, I’m feeling hopeful. Â Once more of us are vaccinated, we will be comfortable to venture back inside restaurants and gather with our extended families.
And travel! Â I can’t wait to book a trip!
Looking forward to warm and sunny beach days ahead!
Rental Property Owners- preparing for 2021
The 2021 summer rental calendar is starting weeks earlier than a typical season. And very likely, we will see the rentals extend through the fall.
Owners are scheduling spring cleaning, power washing, landscape clean up, etc. to make sure everything is ready for the first guests.
Thinking ahead: how will your property fare by mid-season?
This is the year to make arrangements for extra cleaning and/or an in person visit by you or a family member to handle the items that aren’t included in standard change over cleanings:
1) Ceiling fans
2) Air conditioning registers
3) Deck/porch furniture
4) Trash cans (inside and outside containers)
5) Wash small area rugs, and spot clean carpets
6) Tidy the garage or beach item storage areas