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  - Tax Breaks. The tax code lets you deduct the interest you pay on your mortgage, the property taxes you pay, as well as some of the costs involved in buying your home.
- Appreciation. Home prices have increased every year since 1980. In 2001 the typical homeowner had $50,000 appreciation in their home. Today it's probably even more.
- Equity. Money paid for rent is money you'll never see again, but mortgage payments let you build equity ownership in your home.
- Savings. Owning a home is like having a built-in savings plan. An individual can have $250,000 of gain and a couple $500,000 gain without paying any taxes on it.
- Predictability. The amount of your rent goes up regularly. Mortgage payments stay the same for the life of the loan.
- Freedom. The home is yours. You can decorate, have pets and use your property as you want. Also, when your home is paid for, you're FREE of any payments!
- Stability. Staying in one neighborhood gives you a chance to participate in community activities, form lasting friendships, and it offers children educational continuity.
(Buying and selling property is a serious business,
but everyone benefits from keeping his/her sense of humor.
I hope you enjoy the cartoons.)
If you're thinking you might buy a home soon, but your lease is up and you have to sign, talk to your landlord. Good tenants are always in short supply, so she may be glad to keep you on a month-to-month basis or she may agree to write an escape clause into your new lease agreement.
An escape clause permits you to end the lease early with proper notice. Some landlords may require an extra month's rent as a penalty.
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- Investigate downpayment assist programs that give loans or grants. (One is the Nehemiah program, www.getdownpayment.com
- Also try, American Dream downpayment fund from the Department of Housing and Urban Development.
- Ask the seller to provide financing. In some cases, sellers may finance all or part of the purchase price and let you repay them gradually, just as you do with a mortgage.
- Get help from your family. Perhaps a family member will lend you the downpayment or co-sign your loan.
- Lease with the option to buy. In many cases, part of the lease payment goes toward the purchase price.
- Ask a mortgage lender about 100% FHA financing.
- Find a real estate agent with whom you're comfortable. Home buying is a big financial commitment, but it's also an emotional one. The agent you choose should be both skilled and a good fit with your personality.
- Remember that there's no "right" time to buy or sell. No one can second guess interest rates or where the market is headed. When you find a house you like, move quickly. A good home will always sell. You want to be there first.
- Don't ask for too many opinions. Of course you want reassurance for such a big decision, but too many different ideas makes it harder to decide. Trust your own instincts.
- Understand that there is no perfect house. Focus on what you want most and let minor issues go.
- Don't try to be a killer negotiator. Although some negotiation is part of the process, trying too hard to "win" with a very low offer may lose you the house you love. Even in a buyer's market, no one is going to give his house away.
- Keep the big picture in mind as you look at homes you like. Consider area noise level, traffic conditions, schools, shopping areas, etc.
- Ask your agent to help you get pre-approved for a mortgage. Then, when you're ready to make an offer, the seller will know you're a serious buyer with the resources needed to complete the transaction.
- Factor in costs of maintenance, repair and furniture so you don't leave yourself too cash poor each month to take good care of your big investment.
- Accept that everyone feels some "buyer's remorse" and the feeling will pass. Buying a home is a very big commitment, but it also yields some big benefits.
- Choose a home first because you love it, not because it's an investment. Although homes have appreciated a lot, a home's most important role is as a comfortable, safe place to live.
You can get wonderful information from our federal government about buying a home. For first time home buyers, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (aka HUD), offers these nine steps to home ownership
- Figure out how much you can afford
- Know your rights
- Shop for a loan
- Learn about home buying programs
- Shop for a home
- Make an offer
- Get a home inspection
- Shop for homeowners insurance
- Sign papers
By clicking on each step, you will get a nicely detailed explanation of what's involved with each step as well as links for additional help. The main site is below.
http://www.hud.gov/buying/index.cfm
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- Call/visit a mortgage lender (bank) to get pre-qualified for a mortgage. Sellers won't consider offers without seeing that the buyer is qualified.
- Call a reputable real estate company. Tell the agent what you are looking for in terms of size, price, location, school district, etc.
- The agent will search for suitable properties and take the buyer around to visit possible homes.
- When the buyers find a house that they like, the agent will help them to make an offer.
- In Delaware & Pennsylvania, an offer to purchase real estate will include the following:
- Contract
- Seller's Disclosure
- Lead Paint Disclosure
- Radon Disclosure
- Good Faith Deposit
- If the offer is accepted, the buyer will proceed with any home inspections he/she specified in the contract. (major systems, wood destroying insects, radon, mold, septic, well, etc.) The buyer pays for these.
- The real estate agent will negotiate for resolution of any major problems. Sellers can repair major defects or offer financial compensation at settlement. If the seller refuses to make repairs, the buyer can walk away and get her/his deposit back. If all goes well with inspection repairs. . .then . . .
- The buyer's Realtor® arranges with an attorney to conduct the settlement.
- The buyer completes the mortgage application.
- The buyer arranges for home insurance.
- Shortly before settlement, the buyer and her Realtor will do a walk-through of the property to assure that it is in the same condition as when the offer was made, and to ascertain if the repairs have been completed.
- The buyer's attorney does the following:
- Title search to ensure free and clear title
- Pro-rating taxes, sewer, water, homeowner association dues, condo fees if applicable, etc.
- Arranges for Title Insurance for lender and home owner
- Does a financial accounting of everything
- Files the Wood Destroying Insect report
- Pays recording fees and transfer taxes
- Conducts settlement. Explains all paperwork (settlement sheet, mortgage, note, etc). Gets proper signatures. Pays sellers their proceeds. Pays commissions to Realtors. Wires funds to mortgage company. Etc.
- At settlement, you will receive the following:
- Keys
- Garage door openers (if applicable)
- Proof that requested repairs were completed
- Warranties, appliance manuals, etc.
You Must Bring a Signature Guarantee (photo ID) and "Good Funds" (certified)
Contact Me Here!
Many homeowners enjoy updating their homes, but they want to be smart about it. Since the average household moves every six-seven years, homeowners frequently ask, "What are the updates from which I can recover the highest percentage of my costs when I sell?"
If making money on the sale of your home is your greatest motivator, DO NOT REMODEL. Experience shows us that updating should be done for personal enjoyment only, not for re-selling. Why? It's the well-maintained house without any remodeling that will give its owner the greatest return on his initial investment when it's sold. * see explanation at end of article.
If you're the kind of person who enjoys being surrounded by the finer things in life, LET THE GAMES BEGIN. Choose your projects and enjoy the results. Just don't expect to get 100% of your costs back when you sell.
The National Association of Realtors publishes a thorough analysis of improvement costs and your expected return on investment. The report can be a useful guide for homeowners. It may help you prioritize your remodeling projects, or it may just serve to remind you that you won't be getting it all back when you sell.
In any case, here's what the NAR had to say this year. Your best return on investment will be on exterior projects. You may not be able to judge a book by its cover, but homebuyers do something similar. They need a good first impression if you want them to consider your home for purchase.
Whether the motivation is energy efficiency, ease of maintenance, or just plain appearance, homeowners have been favoring exterior projects lately, and buyers are rewarding them for it. Replacement siding has returned an average of 87-88% of its cost while wood windows have returned about 85%. A new roof, more often a necessity than a choice, returns about 73%.
What project are you considering? Will it return a reasonable percentage of your cost when you sell? The entire report was in the December issue of Realtor magazine. You may be able to find it at Realtor.com. If not, and you want more information, e-mail me at abloser@psre.com with your e-mail address, and I will send the pertinent pages.
*Why does the unimproved house get better financial returns for the owner? You can find examples like the following in every neighborhood in America.
Mr. & Mrs. Simms bought a new home in Linden Heath in 1973 for $70,000.
Mr. & Mrs. DelCastle bought an identical home there in 1973 for $70,000.
The Simms's always kept their house in good condition, performing all of the advised maintenance and repairs in a timely fashion. Because they were raising three young children, they didn't have the money to update their home over the years. When they sold the house in 2006, they sold for $329,000. Since the mortgage was paid off, this couple walked away with $329,000.
The DelCastle's, however, enjoyed keeping their home up-to-date. When the kitchen looked old in 1988, they did a make-over that cost $30,000. To them, it was worth it. They thoroughly enjoyed being surrounded by pretty things and took much satisfaction from the new cabinets, appliances, and Corian countertops. In 1993, when they couldn't stand their outdated bathrooms any more, the DelCastle's had all three baths remodeled for $19,000.
When this couple sold in 2006, they had multiple offers and sold for $349,900. Their high price set a neighborhood record and set the tongues wagging. Since the mortgage was paid off, this couple walked away with $349,000. Subtract the cost of their improvements, $49,000, and they really "made" $300,000.
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To achieve success, we have to work together as a team. One way you can help is to provide important information. The more I know, the better I can market your property and answer questions that potential buyers may ask.
Gather Documents
- A survey of your property (may be will your settlement documents)
- A termite inspection letter or report, if you have one
- A radon report, if you have one
- Two sets of keys
- A copy of your floor plan if you purchased from a developer
- A complete list of all your upgrades and improvements, with dates of installation
- Copies of utility bills
- If this is an investment property-a profit/loss statement and copies of tenant information & leases
- If this is a condo, a copy of your condo documents
- If you live in a deed restricted community, a copy of your deed restrictions
Don't be too concerned if you don't have all of these documents. Some we can improvise; others I can get for you.
Advice From the Experts
- Market forces will determine your property's value.
- Consumer confidence
- Time of the year
- Mortgage rates
- Supply of homes on the market
- Condition and location of each property
- Marketing methods
- Availability of credit
- There is no "exact price" for any property.
A good Realtor® will provide all of the information about homes that are currently on the market in your area along with all of the homes that have sold within the last 6-12 months. After studying the facts, you and your Realtor® determine the list price for your home.
- Some agents will try to "buy" your listing by telling you a higher price than they can deliver.
An agent who is willing to list your house at the highest price is the least likely to get you top dollar. Instead, he/she plans to work on you for a series of deep price reductions almost immediately.
In the meantime, other agents know your house is over-priced and don't bring their clients through. Your house lingers on the market and becomes "stale" as buyers wonder what's wrong with that house? Only a price well below fair market value will bring a buyer after such a poor start. Result? You get less money.
- Here's a strategy you may want to consider.
A strategy that often works in a slow market is to price your property slightly UNDER what it should sell for. When buyers sense a "bargain," they jump on it. Sometimes this results in multiple offers and a sale price ABOVE the asking price. Very few sellers follow this strategy, however. Most people try to get more than they should reasonably expect.   - Price it right. The years, 2000-2005 set unreasonable expectations. While everyone wants to sell for the highest price possible, now is the time for a hard look at the market and what it means to you. Unless you have all the tickets today's buyers want (hardwoods, granite, new mechanicals, open floor plan, great location, etc.), set a price near the lower end of your property's realistic price range.
- Get your house "market ready" before you start showings. (See "Ten Ways to Make Your House More Salable").
- Be flexible about showings. It's difficult to have a house ready to show on the spur of the moment, but the more often your home is shown, the sooner you'll find a buyer. Avoid "24 hours notice" and other impediments to showing. Agents quickly move to the next property.
- Be mentally ready when an offer comes in. Decide in advance what price and terms you find acceptable. Do not take offense at offers or the people who make them. It's not personal. Some people are bargain hunters.
- Be prepared to lower your price if your home has been on the market 15-20 days without an offer. It's important to be nimble in today's slow market. You don't want to lose your best buyer because you're over-priced.
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Finding an Agent
Your home is one of your biggest assets, so choose carefully when placing it in the hands of an agent and a realty company. How do you decide who's best? You want someone who . . .
- has a proven track record for getting the job done
- will give you the facts without pressuring you
- will tell you the truth about your property, not just what you want to hear
- has a personality you feel comfortable with (friendly but professional; honest and loyal to you; hard-working; a good negotiator; grasps the big picture but also handles all the details)
- will provide the services you need at a reasonable price
Ask relatives and friends for recommendations; then, invite three agents from three different real estate companies to present you with a CMA (comparative market analysis) of your property. Analyze each presentation and agent afterwards.
You will be able to tell
- who has done the research
- who has a strong sense of the current market
- who has a workable marketing plan
- whose personality feels comfortable with yours.
The best agents will ask you lots of questions before they visit. They'll want to know . . .
- Address
- Number of bedrooms & baths
- Garage spaces
- Style of home
- Updates since purchasing
- Name of development
- Directions, if needed
- What is your time frame for moving?
- What's a good time for me to come by?
As part of their research, they will drive by your house in the days preceding their visit for a visual assessment of the structure, the lot, and the neighborhood. Some will even take a picture of your house.
Good agents show up on time, ask for a tour of your house, ask more questions, and take notes.
Next, they'll sit down with you to discuss your plans for moving and your timetable. The agent will review with you all the houses similar to yours that are currently on the market and those that have sold within the last six months or so.
Using photos, list prices, sale prices, and days on the market for all the listings, you and the Realtor® will discuss your best list price and your marketing strategy for the current market conditions.
Each Realtor® should review all the paperwork and the listing process with you. They should discuss the contract, property disclosure, radon and lead paint disclosures, your agency choices, and what dispute resolution options are available to you.
A reputable agent will initiate a discussion of his/her commission schedule. Commissions are negotiable within the limits that the agent's company sets.
When the agent has finished her presentation, resist any pressure to sign immediately. Take your time. Listen to all three agents. Rate them. Compare them. When you have made a decision, call all three with your decision. Do not feel bad about saying no to two people. It's business.
Getting Your House on the Market
The agent whom you chose will return to do the paperwork with you and discuss more details.
What kind of heat and hot water do you have. What is the amperage of your electrical service and what kind of stove do you have? Is the alarm system owned or leased? What will be included in the sale and what is excluded? Do you want open houses? Do you want to confirm all appointments or let the appointment center just leave you a message. Lots of details!
Have two keys made for the door you prefer agents to use. Your agent will place a lockbox on or near that door with one of the keys inside. Only professional agents, home inspectors, and appraisers will be able to open the lockbox. Your safety is of utmost importance, and Realtors® are committed to protecting it.
One caution is appropriate here. If you are home when someone knocks and says he/she wants to show your house or preview it for a buyer, say no. Do not open the door unless you know there is an appointment scheduled and the person has professional identification.
After you have filled out all the documents and signed all the papers, someone will take multiple pictures of your house and property for display on the multi-list. The multi-list allows twelve pictures, and a good agent will make use of each spot available. Pictures will help sell your house.
You and your agent will discuss when people may come into your house. Try to be as accommodating as possible. When sellers place restrictions on showings, agents move on to the next house and rarely return.
Soon a sign will appear on your front lawn and people will come to see your house. Notice I said house, not home. Once you decide to sell, you want to begin to remove your emotional attachments to the property. From now on, it's business, not personal.
A buyer will purchase your house if it fits his/her needs and price range, not yours. Listen to feedback and make changes if changes are called for, but try not to become upset if someone doesn't care for the floor plan or the lot because there is no cure for those things. Lowering your price is the only way you can compensate for such "defects."
Surviving the Listing Period with Grace
Now is the time to summon up all your reserves of good humor. Having a house on the market can fray your nerves and test your patience.
- Keeping a house in showing condition is very difficult. Everyone must work harder.
- It's annoying to leave the house when a showing is scheduled, especially with children.
- Sometimes the buyers don't show up, or worse, they arrive but don't come inside.
- Someone may leave a light on or forget to lock a door.
- Your things may be disheveled as drapes are opened or cabinets inspected.
- Waiting for an offer is quite stressful when your life plans have to be on hold.
- Then, an offer comes in, but it's not what you hoped for.
There are some things you can do to reduce the stress.
- Have your house in tiptop shape prior to listing. Confidence in its condition will calm you.
- Leave prior to the showing time. Do not stay anyplace where the buyers can see you.
- Be understanding of people's shortcomings. We're all just human and therefore fallible.
- Take some deep breaths and stay calm when things go wrong.
- Ask your agent for feedback if she/he doesn't provide feedback regularly.
- Keep an open mind about your asking price. The market is always changing.
- Think ahead of time about possible responses to an offer so you'll feel prepared.
- Don't take anything personally! Once you decide to sell, it's all business.
Don't Let That Buyer Get Away
Your first buyer is usually your best buyer. Even if the offer is far lower than you'd like, negotiate! Failure to negotiate is insulting to a buyer and the agent. They will walk away. Don't take anything personally, even a lowball offer.
Price is your best tool, but just one of the resources you have available to use in negotiations. Settlement date can mean a lot to a buyer. Help with closing costs is always welcome, too. A home warranty or some additional inclusions may make a difference.
Listen carefully to your agent. There's a reason you hired her/him. Agents know the market better than you do and can "read" the offers better because of their wider experience. If you remain calm and objective, you have a good chance of bringing negotiations to a win-win conclusion.
It Ain't Over Til It's Over
What a relief. You have a fully executed contract. Sorry, but this is not the time to celebrate. Many things can go wrong before the fat lady sings.
The home inspection is an area that can deep-six a deal. Some inspectors alarm buyers unnecessarily, and buyers are too picky. Some sellers can cause problems, too, by becoming offended or by refusing to make justified repairs.
Everyone should try to work toward middle ground in which major defects are identified and repaired. Unfortunately, what the buyer thinks is a major problem can look insignificant to the person asked to pay for repairs.
Again, take guidance from your agent who has worked these deals over and over again. It may cost you some additional funds to make things right, but if you don't make repairs for this person, you'll have to make them eventually to get the house sold.
The law requires sellers to disclose any problem areas of which they have awareness; therefore, if you say good-by to this buyer, you will have to amend your disclosure to reveal this issue. Take a deep breath and resolve the issue. You'll be happier in the end.
A second stumbling block can be your buyer's securing a mortgage. Even buyers with pre-approval letters from reputable mortgage lenders can run into problems in today's lending climate. Hopefully, any financial issues that crop up can be resolved. The agents involved will work hard to make sure that they are. After all, everyone has a stake in the deal and wants a happy ending.
Finally, your house must appraise for at least the selling price. After all, lenders don't want to put up $300,000 if the expert says the property is worth $290,000.
In May of 2007, I sold a house for $313,000 with a settlement date in September, four months out. By now, everyone knows the story. The market began to deteriorate, and as summer became fall, the real estate market across the country was in turmoil.
The house appraised for just $280,000. What to do? The buyer very much wanted the house, and the seller, who had purchased a 55+ in New Jersey, needed to sell. It required spirited negotiations between the lender and me to strike a compromise of $300,000 for the sale.
So remember. It ain't over until the fat lady sings and leave the building!!
Additional Concerns
Do you have any other responsibilities as the process toward settlement unfolds? Indeed.
- You want to keep your homeowner's insurance policy up-to-date until after closing. Occasionally, settlements are delayed by a day or two or longer. You know the safe rather than sorry adage. Suppose someone notices the house is empty and breaks in to steal all your copper plumbing? Suppose a hose to the washer springs a leak and destroys the wood floors? Why take chances?
- You also want to make preparations to ensure that the property is vacant and clean prior to closing.
- Finally, advise your utility company of the date to transfer the account from you to the new owner. Don't ask to have the utilities shut off, though, because that can create all kinds of problems.
The buyers have the right to do a walk-through of the property before closing. The utilities need to be on for them to verify the working condition of appliances and major systems. Also, if utilities are off and settlement is delayed, pipes can freeze or burst. Repairs, your responsibility, can be costly and time consuming, delaying closing and causing everyone hardships.
Congratulations! You Sold Your House.
The papers have been signed; the lender has wired the funds. NOW you can celebrate, but only now. Unless the lender wires the mortgage money, you have not sold your house. I have been to more dry settlements in the last six months than I can count on one hand. A dry settlement means the funds did NOT arrive on settlement day.
When settlement occurs, but the funds don't arrive, does the buyer get the keys? After all, his truck is at the house waiting to unload. The buyer has no place to go if he doesn't get the keys. But should he?
During a recent settlement (12/07), the funds did not arrive, but the attorney did give the buyers the keys. (The buyer pays the attorney, so the attorney represents the buyer's interests.) It was Friday. Over the next few days, the buyers proceeded to move in, but the funds were not wired on Monday, and they did not arrive on Tuesday.
By Wednesday morning, the seller and her agent no longer believed that the mortgage would be funded. The agent arrived at the house, asked the buyers to vacate, and changed the locks. Both sides were distraught.
The money was wired that afternoon, but by then, the transaction was spoiled for both the sellers and the buyers. What should have been a happy occasion was an upsetting event for everyone.*
So as a seller, until you have a check in hand, expect the best, but be prepared for the worst, and never, never allow the attorney to give the keys to your house to anyone until the funds have arrived.
* You can avoid such a scenario by using a reputable, well-known lender.)
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- Give your forwarding address to the post office 2-4 weeks ahead of time.
- Call movers for estimates as soon as possible. Many get booked up early.
- Notify others of your change of address:
- Charge Cards; Banks
- Magazine/Newspaper Subscriptions
- Friends, Relatives, Neighbors
- Business Associates; Physicians
- Arrange to have utilities transferred at your old house and connected at your new one.
- Power; Water; Cable; Trash
- Gas/Oil/Propane Dealers
- Security System
- Clean appliances, drain mowers and prepare them for moving (if applicable).
- Ask your insurance agent about coverage during the move. Most movers cover only what they pack.
- Check with your condo or co-op about restrictions on using the elevators or particular exits.
- Prepare a "First Open" box with things you'll need most-toilet paper, soap, trash bags, scissors, hammer, screwdriver, pencils and paper, cups and plates, snacks, toothpaste, etc.
 If You're Moving Out of Town- Clean out your safe deposit box.
- Get copies of your medical and dental records and perscriptions for your family and pets.
- Consider special travel needs for pets and small children.
- Ask people you know for introductions to anyone they know in the new area.
- Carry travelers' checks, cash, or an ATM card for ready cash until you can open new accounts.
- Let others know of your route and travel plans.
A home must not go onto the market in less than very good condition. When buyers see minor problems around the house, they will assume that the house was not well maintained overall, and if they make an offer, it will be a low one. Before you list your house, attend to all its obvious faults. It's so important to make a good impression, and fixing things does not have to be expensive. Unless you are experienced and can do a very good job, call on qualified service professionals. A poor job is just as bad as no repair. There are many good home repair people in the greater Wilmington area. If you live in Delaware, your neighbors probably have many names to share with you. Otherwise, here is a list of some contractors who have given good service to me or people I know.* Bathroom Repairs- Reglaze Tubs, designer liners and resurfacing. 1-888-639-9988
- ARK Porcelain Refinishing, 425-5533
- 2 Days Bath, 798-0103
Carpeting- Nationwide Flooring, (Did my home) call Gary @
- RCW Renovations (Recommended by my Stager, Kim Dillon) 234-1926
- David's Flooring 545-4508
Cleaning- 1-800-GOT-JUNK, furniture, appliances, yard waste, construction debris
- DiBiaso's, 376-7111, odor control, water cleanup, mold remediation
- THE Cleaning Authority, 737-7444, www.THECleaningAuthority.com
- The Maids, 302-992-0220
- Clean-Out, basement to attic, 292-8973, 610-255-0112
Concrete/Masonry- Fran Medori, 292-1130
- Esposito Masonry, 778-1800
Contractors- Complete Construction, Interior/Exterior, excavation, tree/stump removal, 856-831-6664 or 302-369-5584
- A & E Construction, Joe Papa, 668-9847
- A Craftsman First, 302-521-9525
- Robert Shaw Contractors, 302-453-0868
- Design Solutions, kitchens, baths, etc. 834-2350 or 877-788-8680
- Howard Hobson, Master Carpenter. Kitchen, bath renovations. Hardwood Floors. 456-3415, 388-2222
- Mike @ A Job Well Done 378-3014
Driveways- Asphalt Seal Coating, 302-239-5532
- B & F Paving, Scott Starks, 377-8965, 239-6424, 610-274-1573
Electricians- R.J. Electric, Ronald J. Griffin, 302-654-8355
- Electrical Solutions, 302-994-6252 or 302-383-8666
- Handyman Matters aka Delaware Home Repair 746-1111 (plumbers, too)
- Chiefo, 302-798-4494
General Repairs/Handyman- Handyman Matters aka Delaware Home Repair 746-1111 (electricians & plumbers, too)
- A & E Construction, Joe Papa, 668-9847
- Done Right Handyman, 302-994-0844
- Miller's Improvements & Repairs, 302-229-4064
- E & E Services, Earl Thompson, Decks, Siding, Gutters, Lighting, Walls, etc. 302-738-9159
- Barbato Services, painting, torn screens, broken windows, cleaning windows, grout, floor squeaks, etc. 866-398-8779
Hardwood Flooring- Nick Hafycz, 302-650-7675, Young, eager, trained by the best. Now starting out on his own. Less costly.
Heating & Air Conditioning- Jos. Frederick & Sons, plumbing, heating, electrical, A/C. 302-994-5786
- Amstel Mechanical, 302-328-6651
- Geiger/Horizon, 762-1200, 368-7235
- Sobieski, 234-2244
Home Inspections- C & N Inspections, Pete Weber, 1-800-385-9202
- Island to Highland, Bill Kappa, 302-456-3414
- Absolute Inspection, 836-4648
- Eagle Eye, 655-8779
Insurance- Nationwide, Charles M. Wallace, Jr. 302-234-8600 or 302 998-1412
- State Farm, Kim Snyder, 1-302-994-5588
Lawn & Garden- Residential Lawn Care Specialist, Don, 302-798-2039
- L & O Lawn Service, 302-275-5286
- Limestone Lawn & Landscape, design, install, maintain, 302-234-1600; 610-345-1111
Locksmiths- Accurate Lock and Safe, Inc. Newark 302-369-3550 Wilm. 302-996-5454 Middletown 302-376-0550
Mold Remediation- Woodland Cleaning & Restoration, 234-8821
- MASLabs, 470-4844
- County Environmental, 322-8946
- Mold Abatement Contractors, Inc. 1-866-344-MOLD
Movers- WeePack Moving and Storage, Carl Haskins, 302-395-1801
Outdoor Work- S & J Inc. Hauling, Cleaning, & Handyman Services 302-478-6879
- INSIDEOUT, Fencing, Deck Refinishing, Pressure Washing, etc. Brandt Alessi, 302-383-6069
- Osciak Construction, specializing in driveways, patios, sidewalks, 302-798-0398 or 302-275-5288
- Niblock Maintenance Services of Delaware, pressure washing, mulching, lawncare, car wash & detailing, 302-832-1210
- Arborist Associates, Inc., Miles Codding, all tree care including stump removal, 302-239-1449
Painters- Custom Pro, Brian Miller, Fine Interior Painting, 302-633-1458
- Ken Maxwell, paint, paper, drywall, pressure wash, waterproofing, 302-995-1690
- J. Michael's Painting, Inc., Mike Purvis, 302-738-8465
- M T Painting, Brian Turner, 302-654-1120
- Dan Did It, 302-740-1097
- Shabby Chic, C. Beth Delligatti, walls, furniture, stenciling, faux, embossing, 302-449-0821
- Curry Painting & Wallcovering, LLC. Timothy W. Curry, 302-239-1044 or 302-593-8431
Pest Control- True Pest Control,302-834-0867
Plumbers- Jos. Frederick & Sons, plumbing, heating, electrical, A/C. 302-994-5786
- Amstel Mechanical, 302-328-6651
- Geiger/Horizon, 762-1200, 368-7235
- Sobieski, 234-2244
Radon Mitigation- Safe Shelter, 800-200-1777
Real Estate Attorneys- Ward & Taylor, 2751 Centerville Rd., Wilm., DE 302-225-3350
- Vance Funk, 273 E. Main St., Newark, 368-2561
- Gerald Dixon, 1204 King St., Wilm., 652-6599
- Edward Tarlov, 1201 N. Market St., Wilm., 428-3181
- Gary Bryde, 724 Yorklyn Rd., Hockessin, 239-3700
- Pennsylvania Title Company, Willowdale Abstract, 610-444-3737
Rentals- Cort Furniture Rental 302-234-8040
Roofing- Affordable Roofing, repairs, new, coating, etc. 302-832-1766
- P.J.Fitzpatrick, roofing, siding, windows, doors, decks, 302-478-4426; 302-366-1730
Staging/Home Decorating- Creative Eye, Kim Dillon, 610-563-0899
Technical Support- Digital House Call, Computer setup and support, spyware, internet, etc. 302-561-0652
Wet Basement- Mid-Atlantic Waterproofing, 1-800-866-6292
- 1st State Waterproofing, 888-1917
* Some of the contractors above I have used, but others are unknown to me. I am providing this list as a service to you in case you are looking for household help of any kind, but I can't be held liable for problems you may encounter.
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