The continued shutdown of our Federal Government is concerning on many levels – including its reach to Cape region residents still working in Washington, DC., and the impact of people furloughed throughout the country.  Of course it’s a topic unto itself.

We can at least address one question: How will the shutdown affect the home buying process?

Most federal agencies involved in federal housing and mortgage programs will continue to operate throughout the shutdown, though a few may process things slightly more slowly.  To summarize a reference sheet from The National Association of REALTORS released on October 3, 2013:

The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) – specifically single family mortgage loans, VA Loan Guaranty program, Government Sponsored Enterprises (Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac) and the Treasury’s The Making Home Affordable Program (HAMP and HAFA) will continue to operate during the shutdown, with some requiring subsequent verification of information.  The IRS and Social Security Administration may be the slowest to process requests for verification.

To summarize a local report from our friends at Dynamic Mortgage:  We are closing loans! 

Whether you have already put a contract on a property to buy or are considering a purchase, mortgages are still moving along!  Check with your mortgage lender to find out if the federal shutdown may impact you personally, and always feel free to contact The Lee Ann Wilkinson Group with any questions about buying or selling homes and land in our Delaware Beach communities!

If you have been watching interest rates and waiting to make a move, you have a newly opened window of opportunity.  This week, the Federal Reserve announced it would continue to purchase mortgage-backed securities and Treasury bonds, according to a September 19, 2013 CNNMoney article.  In other words, the Fed will not taper these purchases – which should keep mortgage rates at least the same, if not slightly lower, for awhile. 

The question remains as to whether or not we are headed toward a 5% mortgage rate; however, (as sited in CNNMoney) Freddie Mac’s chief economist, Frank Nothaft, said rates could hit 5% by mid-2014.  To keep things in perspective, these rates are still relatively low - but they offer a chance at savings for buyers that are on the fence now about purchasing a home.

If you are in the process of buying a home now – awaiting your settlement/closing – consider these tips (courtesy of Chris Hoenen at Schab and Barnett):

If you are paying cash:

• Arrange for your certified funds in advance of closing to allow time. 
• Make sure your insurance is in place, even if you are not using a lender.
• Get a survey! Even if you do not have a lender requiring it, a survey protects you as the buyer.

If you are selling a property: 

• You have closing duties, too!  Complete the letter/checklist your attorney sends you, which includes requests for your mortgage lender, a survey (if you have one) and association contact information.  Privacy laws prevent payoff without sellers’ authorization.  Sellers can greatly expedite closing by returning this information.

If you are looking for a property to buy – or if you have one to sell: 

• Call The Lee Ann Wilkinson Group today at (302) 645-6664 or email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..  We are ready to help you open your window of opportunity!

"Oh no!  My house didn't sell during the summer! Now what?"

If that’s on the tip of your tongue, you are not alone.  It’s a common misconception, especially at the beach, that summer is the hottest time for buying and selling property.  Of course, it’s the “hottest” time overall, but summer is not the only time (or even the best time) for buyers to make a move.

As we are lucky enough to notice this week, fall is beautiful at Delaware’s beaches.  Gorgeous weather, less traffic, and more “normalcy” offer a real look at what it’s like to live in a beach town during most of the year.  If you are in the market for a beach home, now is the time to 'fall' in love!

While summer was busy, fall still offers many great opportunities to attract visitors - and potential home buyers - to the beach.

Locals and visitors can enjoy less-crowded beaches and restaurants, walk the Rehoboth Boardwalk, browse antiques shows, car shows, and taste chocolate (and that’s just this weekend alone!). Check out www.leweschamber.com or www.rehoboth.com for dates and times of favorites like antique shows, sidewalk sales, the Jazz Festival, Sea Witch/Halloween Weekend, and Film Festival.

Fall, Foward

One thing to consider: If your home or property was on the market all summer without any interest or showings, now is a great time to discuss your fall plan with your Realtor.

Evaluate pricing of other local, similar properties – both currently for sale and that may have recently sold, particularly over the summer.  Discuss ways to make your home stand out, including basic maintenance like cleaning up your yard, transitioning to fall plantings, and keeping gutters and drains clear.

If you would like to sell your house and need advice on how to get the ball rolling, call The Lee Ann Wilkinson Group at (302) 645-6664 or send us a message to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..  We sold more property than any other realtor in Sussex County last year and would be happy to help!

The best time of year at the beach in Delaware and all over Sussex County is here.  Summer?  Yes – but more specifically, tomato season!  (It’s also time for the Historic Lewes Farmers Market’s Tomato Recipe Contest next weekend…)  Delaware tomatoes are delicious, fresh, local, and ripe for the picking!  If you are selling your home, you may want to consider these words to describe your own home. While you already have the “local” part, how can you make your home stand out as ‘fresh’ and ‘ripe for the buying’? 

Even in this market of low inventory, or relatively few properties in the prime locations, buyers (like diners) are wowed by presentation: the first impression. 

Here are a few tips:

• Price: The ultimate “first impression.”  Make sure your house is priced accordingly (competitively and attractively) if you want to sell quickly. 

• Presentation: Why do we put off doing those little things for ourselves while we are living in a home – until it’s time for someone else to enjoy it?  It’s common, but NOW is definitely the time to do these projects.  People form first impressions on sensory information, not necessarily on ‘what could be.’

Sight

Try to look at your home with fresh eyes, or ask your REALTOR to make recommendations based on her or his first impression.  These tips may seem obvious – and it may seem that buyer should be able to envision everything clean – but it’s a lot easier to envision when it actually IS clean! 

Eliminate clutter and paperwork.  The fine Lladro figurines may be beautiful, but they are also precious, breakable and set a certain style.  Take time to put them away carefully and set a neutral stage for your prospective buyer.

Freshen your paint, and wipe down ceiling fans, walls, handrails, baseboards, and light switches (even swap out dated light switches for more modern ones with dimmers).

Inspect all of your sinks, faucets, and toilets for drips and leaks.  Seal leaky faucets, replace washers, and caulk where necessary. 

Don’t neglect the outside.  With all the rain we have had lately, make sure your gutters are cleaned out and check your basement for any water leakage or mildew.  Clip your flowers and gardens to keep them looking great, too.

Smell

In addition to the visual presentation, try walking into your house with a fresh nose.  Do you smell your pets or smoky furniture?  Has your home been closed up with A/C – or do you need a fresh filter?  The old ‘baking cookies for the open house’ strategy works for a reason!  You can, however, have too much of a good thing.  Try to go for neutral versus too much potpourri or heavy scents.  People love a fresh, new smell.

Recipe for Success

Unlike baking, home selling is not an exact science.  These tips are based on more than 30 years of home-selling experience, and are by no means all-inclusive!  The most successful recipe at The Lee Ann Wilkinson Group is equal parts experience and current market knowledge – with a dash of intuition and flexibility.  Please visit us online at www.leeanngroup.com or call us at (302) 645-6664 to customize a recipe for selling your home!

Look at Clouds from Both Sides Now…from renting and owning your own place at the beach!

Whether you own a house at the beach already or you are renting this summer, the clouds and rain have kind of gotten in the way of plans!  It’s been a rainy summer for sure. Those most frustrated by the weather lately are our beach home renters.  A few weeks so far have brought practically daily rain, which can dampen family fun and end up breaking the budget with daytime activities. 

This weather is out of character for Delaware beaches in the summer (and even off of Farmer’s Almanac predictions!).  Still, renting for a week puts a lot of pressure on Mother Nature (and mothers and fathers); you have to make the most of every day you have budgeted to spend at the beach. 

If you are here at the Delaware Beaches for the first time this year and the rain is getting you down, take heart!  It’s been exceptionally rainy – not the norm.  And hopefully you are finding some great rainy day activities:

• Grabbing a poncho at the dollar store and hiking through Cape Henlopen State Park – even down to or up from the Gordon’s Pond entrance in Rehoboth’s North Shores
• Renting a Quest kayak in Lewes (as long as it’s not torrential or bringing thunder and lightning!)
• Enjoying sales tax-free Delaware’s shopping – especially locally owned, independent businesses in Downtown Lewes and Rehoboth Beach
• Lounging in one of our growing numbers of cafes
• Spending a few extra dollars on Second Street in Lewes on unique puzzles or board games (for adults and kids)
• Exploring fishing excursions from the Lewes-Rehoboth Canal
• Discovering the many, many metropolitan-worthy art galleries through Rehoboth Beach and Lewes
• Taking kids to library programs for a change of scenery
• Strolling through the Rehoboth Beach Farmer’s Market on Tuesday or Historic Lewes Farmer’s Market on Saturday

Ultimately, the best way to take the pressure off of packing everything into your weekly rental experience is to consider the feasibility of making it a year-round opportunity.  Renting has many short-term advantages financially; however, if you are a regular renter, your annual investment could make way for a vacation home of your own! 

If you would like more information about properties and pricing, The Lee Ann Wilkinson Group would love to help!

Delaware is “The First State” for many reasons. As all Delaware history students know, it was literally ‘first’ to ratify the Constitution.  We have a rich history throughout our state – from Sussex up to New Castle County.  

Delaware is always first in my book for celebrating Independence Day.  History is written every year as Delaware’s beaches continue to top themselves, year over year, with amazing July 4^th celebrations.

If you are visiting and thinking of buying a home at Delaware’s Beach communities, this July 4 may seal the deal!

Don’t forget:

All Day:

Kids’ fun and games on Second Street in Lewes

Starting at 5 p.m.

World Famous Doo Dah Parade!

Find your spot along Kings Highway, Second Street or Savannah Road for the most classic American Hometown parade ever assembled.  Or, line up by Lloyd’s IGA grocery store to join in the parade yourself! 

Tonight:

Rehoboth Beach Main Street sponsors amazing fireworks

Dewey Beach goes for the Guinness Book World Record for fireworks

Lewes Beach offers triple views (clear-sky dependent) of displays from Broadkill to Cape May – and even Rehoboth sometimes…

We know how to throw a birthday party! If you are in Lewes for July 4, you will get swept up in truly the most classic Norman Rockwell portrayal of what it means to be in American for our nation’s Independence Day.  If it sounds too good to be true, it is – but so is Delaware! 

Thank you to all of our military veterans – from Delaware and throughout the nation – for securing our “life, liberty and pursuit of happiness” year-round.

Happy July 4, 2013 from The Lee Ann Wilkinson Group

Coastal Living magazine (www.coastalliving.com) scours beach towns up and down both the east and west coasts of America looking for the best of the best.  It shouldn’t be a big surprise that Delaware’s beach towns often make the lists in the company of coastal towns from Maine, New York, the Carolinas, and Florida, to the west coast of California.  While we don’t rank for categories like “best fried artichokes” (found in Santa Cruz, California), we know what makes us special! 

It’s no surprise - we can take pride in knowing that Rehoboth Beach made the list of “10 Great Coastal Boardwalks.”  Further, the magazine’s list of “Best Boardwalk Bites” includes Bethany Beach for chocolate covered pretzels at Candy Kitchen and Rehoboth Beach for best calzones at Nicola Pizza!

North-end to south-end, Rehoboth’s boardwalk offers just about anything vacationers want and need. Locals are lucky to be able to visit the “best of the best” anytime!

If you are visiting Delaware’s beaches and want to make the move to year-round ‘coastal living,’ give The Lee Ann Wilkinson Group a call at (888) 770-6664 or visit us online at www.leeanngroup.com.  We would be happy to answer questions and show you opportunities for owning property at the beach!

Maybe you have heard this question in job interviews: “Where do you see yourself in five years?” It’s either a welcome opportunity to share our goals and life plans, or it’s a time to realize that we really need to think about the answer!

Many people think about renewal this time of year - around the Summer Solstice, the longest day of the year in terms of daylight and the position of the sun. Especially in our beach community, even more than the calendar year, summer feels like the beginning.

Fortunately, it IS just the beginning of summer!  It is time to 'plan' to relax and make sure we hit the summer “must do” list: enjoying brunch and dinners at favorite local restaurants, setting aside beach time, biking the Junction and Breakwater Trail, making it to yoga in the Canalfront Park, and getting enough local corn as soon as it’s in! (At least that's my list!)

It’s also a great time to ask, “Where do I want toLIVE in five years?”

No matter what stage you are in life, from first-time homebuyer, second home vacationer, or full-time retiree, it is a perfect time to think about where you actually want to be – where to wake up every morning - and how you can fulfill that five-year (or sooner!) plan.

In the spirit of re-energizing, The Lee Ann Wilkinson Group has just reorganized to make sure we continue to be as efficient as possible for our customers.  All of the faces are the same; we have just reorganized the office!

The Lee Ann Wilkinson Group is:

Lee Ann Wilkinson, REALTOR® and President

For over 30 years, Lee Ann Wilkinson has been a top real estate agent in Lewes, focusing on bringing buyers and sellers together all over Sussex County, Delaware.  Currently Lee Ann ranks as the number one agent in total sales volume and dollar value in Sussex County.

Amy Richardson, REALTOR®, Listing Coordinator

Amy has worked in home sales/marketing in the area since 2002 and now works with sellers to position their houses to sell quickly and for the best price.

Carrie Gentile, REALTOR®

Carrie works closely with both buyers and sellers, handling everything from marketing properties for sale and writing contracts for Lee Ann’s buyers, to showing properties.

Chris Holt, REALTOR®, COO, Listing/Buyer's Agent

Chris Holt joined the Lee Ann Wilkinson group team in January 2012 as a listing and buyer’s agent and the chief operating officer for the Group.

Cyndi Myers, REALTOR®, Settlement Coordinator

Cyndi has over 20 years of experience in the mortgage and real estate business.

Dane Baich, REALTOR®, Buyer's Agent

Dane is also the lead sales agent at Bay Crossing, representing Blenheim Homes as its on-site agent.

Dawn Singley - Showing Coordinator

Dawn is usually the first friendly voice you hear when calling our office, as she is our receptionist and showing appointment coordinator.

Erin Marsh, REALTOR®, Buyer's Agent

Erin Marsh is a buyer's agent for The Lee Ann Wilkinson Group. She has been a licensed REALTOR® since 2007, and her hard work and perseverance have led her to continued success in an ever-changing market.

Garrett King, REALTOR®, Buyer's Agent

Garrett, a Cape Henlopen High School and Delaware Tech graduate, enjoys matching clients with the perfect properties.

Mark Robinson, REALTOR®, Buyer's Agent

Mark has always worked in a customer service-­related field and puts his experience to work for prospective buyers.

Trish Irwin, Settlement Coordinator

Trish works with Lee Ann's buyers and sellers to make sure that every aspect of the settlement process - from signed agreement to final settlement - is handled with the utmost efficiency and effectiveness.

Each member of The Lee Ann Wilkinson Group brings unique experience to the team – and all members share a commitment to superior service and outstanding results for our clients!  Call us at (302) 645-6664 today if you have questions or are interested in buying or selling a property at the beach.

It’s the perfect time to renew your “five-year plan” to live here!

On our “beach calendar,” the summer season starts on Memorial Day.  Schools still have a few more weeks of classes though and the true, official start of the season is a little later in June.  If you are looking to sell a home, now is definitely the time to make sure everything is in good shape.  Here are a few tips to consider:

1.      Price: Make sure your house is priced accordingly if you want to sell quickly. 

2.      Disclosure: When listing your house with a Realtor, you will be asked to complete a standard Delaware “Seller’s Disclosure” form.  Taking time to review and check every box will expedite your sale immeasurably and save you time and frustration once a contract comes in.

3.      Flexibility: Consider some things you may compromise on, and know the absolute lowest price you would entertain.  Also, consider negotiating housewares and fixtures that may appeal to prospective buyers, such as new drapes, custom blinds, that stylish dining room chandelier, even a new washer/dryer. 

4.      Clutter:  A spotless, clutter-free home shows best.  Remove any unnecessary papers and knick-knacks, then go back and do it again!

5.      Incentive: If you are highly motivated and your house is not garnering the attention you expect, or if there is high competition in your neighborhood, consider offering an incentive like sharing the buyer’s closing costs.

6.      Maintenance: Keeping your lawn cut and neat and allowing as much access as you can for showings will help your sale, too.  It is a little tough this time of year if you entertain family and friends, but it will help during this prime buying season. 

Lastly, and most importantly, enjoy your summer at the beach!

Finally! After a fickle spring, it's going to be a warmer Mother's Day Weekend! Especially when the weather's this nice, there is so much to do at the beach.

It’s the “first” weekend for several local traditions, including the Historic Lewes Farmer’s Market and the opening of Funland on the Rehoboth Boardwalk.  Stroll the Rehoboth Beach Second Saturday Art Walk – even stop into Heidi Lowe Gallery on the Avenue and make a Mother’s Day charm. Sunday, the Lewes Canalfront Park opens its wonderful program season with free Soul Yoga at 8 a.m. Of course, this is just a small sample of what’s in store this weekend. 

I hope you enjoy your own spring Mother's Day traditions, whether with your mother or in memory of your mother.  I am looking forward to my annual brunch!

If you have time to enjoy a Saturday drive, stop by one of the premier properties on Lewes Beach.

11 Maine Avenue, Lewes Beach

Open House on Saturday, May 11

12 - 3 p.m.

Year-round home sits on premium, sub-dividable double lot! This home was originally a Coast Guard Boathouse which was relocated to Maine Avenue circa 1957. Lot has 100’ frontage on Maine Avenue 144’ on Cedar Avenue. Potential for unlimited views of Delaware Bay, Inlet and Canal!

For more information about this great home, or any other property at the Delaware Beaches, please contact The Lee Ann Wilkinson Group by email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., by phone at (302) 645-6664, or visit our website at www.leeanngroup.com.

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Home Sellers (and everyone!): Check your Home for Storm Damage

Yesterday's crazy weather brought big rain and wind storms that damaged houses throughout the Northeast. After any "weather event," home sellers should take a close look at their properties for storm damage and make repairs.

When we experience a powerful storm, it’s a smart idea to check your roof for any damage and ensure there are no missing shingles or cracks around any skylights the home may have. Climb into your attic and look for discoloration of the decking or plywood surfaces.

Also look for light penetrating from around plumbing vents or the chimney, indicating that your roof’s flashing needs repair.

Next, inspect your rain gutters for damage and clear them of leaves and debris. BE CAREFUL on any ladders!  Look for holes, cracks or sags; all three can be easily fixed by a homeowner. (To fix a small hole, first use an abrasive pad to clean the area, then cut a piece of gutter material slightly larger than the hole. Using a stiff brush, spread gutter-repair compound around the hole and place your patch over the top. Cover the patch with another layer of compound to ensure a good seal. To repair minor sags, simply add a new hanging bracket to the sagging area or replace the compromised existing bracket.)

Pay particular attention to areas of your home near trees and shrubs. Limbs can play havoc with your roof, siding and stucco in heavy winds, and can come crashing down under the weight of snow. Prune your trees and shrubs to ensure their health and to safeguard your home.

Finally, be sure to inspect your windows, fencing, decking, which also take a beating in storms. Seal and repair any damage.

Sometimes storm damage is unavoidable. But making quick repairs can help ensure your home is safe, sound, and ready for sale.

Even though the boardwalk and downtown are less crowded during the winter, Rehoboth real estate definitely remains active.  The Lee Ann Wilkinson Group at Prudential Gallo, REALTORS is active in Rehoboth, too.  For over a decade, The Lee Ann Wilkinson Group has been the #1 sales team in Sussex County – more than doubling the sales volume in units sold of our nearest competition last year! 

Local inventory (the number of houses on the market) is historically low.  For any reader considering selling or buying a property in any of Delaware’s beach communities, now is a great time.  My team and I are ready to assist you. We know Rehoboth, Lewes, Milton and surrounding area beaches – and we put our collective knowledge to work for our clients to achieve “Superior Service & Outstanding Results.” 

Click below to find the statistical information we have compiled about several of Rehoboth’s neighborhoods:

Canal Corkran

Country Club Estates

Kings Creek Country Club

Rehoboth Beach Yacht and Country Club

North Rehoboth

South Rehoboth