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Back-to-School Routine

Tuesday, August 15, 2023
by Tucker Robbins

In most parts of the US this time of year, there is a lot of groaning by kids who are heading back to school, and some parents as well, because they dread the busyness of the school being in session.  Take the dread out by getting organized and staying organized so that it becomes a routine for you and your kids. 
 

  • - With sales and coupons abounding at every store this time of year, we usually end up with more school supplies than we need.  Have a dedicated storage spot for everything for easy access when it’s time to replenish.  Donating some of those extra supplies to the school or organization who help kids in need is a good thing, too. 
     

  • - If your school requires uniforms, go through old ones, and if they’re not worn or stained, take them to your school office so other students have a change of clothing in case of spills or accidents.  
     

  • - Getting ready for school begins the night before.  Set a bedtime, get a good routine going, and stick to it.  It can help reset your child’s body clock so that even when things get busy, they’ll be ready for sleep at their set time. 
     

  • - Even if they haven’t yet learned to tell time, get your child an alarm clock.  Set the alarm and help them be responsible for getting themselves up.   
     

  • - Have all their school clothes for the week hanging on a wreath hanger on the back of their bedroom or closet door or folded on their dresser.  This way, they can decide what to wear each day without staring at a closetful of clothes. 
     

  • - Let the kids pitch in with lunch prep.  Have their lunchboxes, storage containers, plastic bags and drink containers all in one easily-accessed spot in a kitchen cabinet. Good Housekeeping has a video with some great tips for packing up lunches. 
     

  • - Breakfast on the go can be so much more than a toaster pastry and juice box.  Mique from Thirty Handmade Days has compiled a list of links of 31 healthy make-ahead meals that kids will love! 
     

  • - Whether you have a mudroom or not, place some baskets or totes near the door for shoes, bookbags and sports bags.  It certainly helps with “I can’t find…” when it’s time to get them out the door. 
     

  • - After-school routines can vary, with extracurricular activities, sports, and lessons.  Keep a white board in a prominent place and have everyone’s schedule listed by days of the week.  Have the kids go over their schedule the night before so they’ll be prepared for their activities the next day. 
     

  • - Sometimes children come home from school and can’t wait till dinner and want to eat a full meal.  Have some snack bags of sliced fruit or veggies keeping cold in the fridge.  Add some fruit dip or ranch, and they’ll have a yummy snack that will tide them over until meal time. 

 

Getting in a routine doesn’t mean there won’t be mishaps or struggles or lost socks.  Go with the flow and remind the kids of the importance of putting things in their place or having things ready to go.  When they see you getting things ready beforehand, they’ll pick up your habits, get used to it, and it will soon be second nature.   

 

Courtesy of New Castle County DE Realtors Tucker Robbins and Carol Arnott Robbins.   

 

Photo credit: 01 Insurance

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7 Tips for Selling Your Home with Pets

Wednesday, August 9, 2023
by Tucker Robbins

While a home is in the de-cluttering and depersonalizing stage before it goes on the market, remember that your pets are as personal as family photos on display. Many homebuyers are pet owners as well, but a seller needs to eliminate as much evidence of their furry family members as possible.  
 

  • Before listing the home, thoroughly clean carpets and hard surfaces with an enzyme cleaner, which will help eliminate any pet odors or stains. The Humane Society offers some tips on cleaning furniture, hard surfaces, and repairing scratches. 
     

  • Keep pets out of the listing photos; sure, they can be cute and gain online views, but some buyers will not consider a house that has pets living in it. 
     

  • A cat’s litter box should be cleaned thoroughly with a 50/50 water/vinegar solution to help neutralize unpleasant smells and clean the litter daily. Using a covered litter box is perfect, especially one with a carbon filter. 
     

  • The outside of the home is as important as the inside, and any dog runs or play areas need to be spruced up and look their best. Fill in any holes and spray odor neutralizer in places used most often. 
     

  • More likely than not, exotic pets can scare some potential homebuyers away. Make arrangements for someone with experience to care for them while the home is on the market.  Petsitter.com can help find the right person to care for your caged pets. 
     

  • When leaving the house during a showing, take the dogs along, and place the cats in a carrier if possible. If taking them with you is inconvenient, ask a neighbor, friend, or family member to pet sit during the showing. 
     

  • If taking your pets with you or a pet sitter is totally out of the question, crating your pet is the best solution, with signage that lets everyone know to leave the pet alone. 

 

Get your pets used to a new routine, and if they are not already crate-trained, start before the home is listed. While everyone’s safety is important, keep in mind that cleaning and repairing any pet damage are crucial to making a good impression on potential buyers and selling your home. 

 

Courtesy of New Castle County DE Realtors Tucker Robbins and Carol Arnott Robbins.   

 

Photo credits: WIN Home Inspections

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Tips for Creating a Perfect Kitchen Pantry

Wednesday, July 26, 2023
by Tucker Robbins

The typical household kitchen pantry is full of items that are needed and some items that may have been in there way too long that are no longer needed or good for that matter.  Perhaps you have tried in the past to clean out your pantry to make it more efficient to no avail.  Below are a few tips for a perfect kitchen pantry that may help you clean and organize yours once and for all.  

 

  1.  The best way to start organizing your pantry is to clean everything out of it and start from the beginning.  It may make a mess at first when you begin taking all of the items out of your pantry but sometimes you have to make a mess in order to get rid of a mess.   Be sure to look through all of your items throwing out anything that is outdated or spoiled.   

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  1. Another tip for a creating a perfect kitchen pantry is to install shelving that makes it more efficient.  You can purchase shelving for your pantry at most local hardware stores or you can build them yourself out of wood, whichever works best for you.   You can make the shelves stationary or you can choose to make them where they will pull out so that you can get things out a bit easier.   

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  1. Putting all your staples such as flower and sugar into air tight containers then labeling them is a great way to organize your pantry and make it more user friendly.  Once you get all of your staple items into containers you can then more easily organize them.   

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  1. Another good tip for creating a perfect kitchen pantry is to use one shelf for each type of food.  For example you can put cereals together all on one shelf,  spices on one shelf and  items that you use daily on a shelf that is eye level.   

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  1. If your pantry is dull and dreary, you can always paint it a light color to brighten it up after you organize it all.   

 

Once you get your kitchen pantry all organized exactly like you want it you will likely want to spend more time in the kitchen creating fantastic meals for your friends and family.   

 

Courtesy of New Castle County DE Realtors Tucker Robbins and Carol Arnott Robbins.   

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Understanding Home Equity Loans

Wednesday, July 19, 2023
by Tucker Robbins

When faced with the high cost of their child’s college tuition or home renovation, many homeowners use the equity in their property to finance it. How does that happen? There are two ways: a home equity line of credit and a home equity loan. Take a look at the differences between the two before signing on the dotted line: 

 

Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) 

  • HELOCs are a second mortgage on the home, but instead of a lump sum, the homeowner typically has a five-to-ten-year “draw” period where they have access to the amount of the credit. 
     

  • During the draw period, some lenders allow interest-only payments on the amount, while some require principle-plus-interest payments. Either way, pay more than the minimum so the principal can be paid off before the repayment period. 
     

  • Once the draw period is over, repayment of what credit has been used will begin.  Keep in mind that these payments will be higher than the earlier amounts you’ve been paying. 
     

  • This line of credit can be used for anything but using it for large purchases or luxury vacations may not be a good idea; start a savings fund for those! Once the draw period is over and the homeowner cannot afford the payments, they could lose your home to foreclosure.  
     

  • In some cases, a lender will close the line of credit early if the borrower’s circumstances change.  If that money is used to pay their child’s college tuition, they will no longer have access to it, creating financial strain. 

 

Home Equity Loan 

  • Basically speaking, a home equity loan is a second mortgage on your home, which will be used as collateral by the lender.  
     

  • The lender usually bases the loan amount on the difference between the homeowner's equity and the home's current market value. Nerdwallet can help determine how much equity there is in a home. 
     

  • Most lenders allow homeowners to borrow up to 80% of the home’s total value; it depends on what portion is actually “owned.” In other words, a home that has a mortgage with an outstanding balance will have less equity than a house that has no mortgage. 
     

  • Unlike HELOC, a home equity loan will be paid out in a lump sum and comes with a fixed interest rate.  

 

While shopping for the best interest rates for these kinds of loans, be mindful of scams!  Stay clear of offers that come in the mail, ads that guarantee qualification, or “lenders” that request fees up front.  Know what to look for when applying for any type of loan, especially those that use the home as collateral. 

 

Courtesy of New Castle County DE Realtors Tucker Robbins and Carol Arnott Robbins.   

Photo credit: www.prosper.com

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A Guide to Yard Sale Success

Wednesday, July 12, 2023
by Tucker Robbins

Having a successful yard sale means putting some effort into your setup. Just tossing things on tables or in storage containers in the driveway may be easy, but if you truly want to get rid of unnecessary stuff plus make extra cash, you will want to follow these tips: 

 

  • Make sure all items are clean and free of stains, tears, or breakage. Launder all washable items and wipe hard-surface items with a disinfectant wipe.  
     

  • Set prices low and at twenty-five cent increments so items move quickly and to help avoid bargaining with shoppers. Not pricing your items will take up your time at the sale and may turn some people away. 
     

  • Bundle miscellaneous items, such as jewelry, small toys, and other children’s items, or holiday decorations, in appropriately sized clear plastic bags. Sell the bundles of children’s items as “grab bags.” 
     

  • Have a “FREE” table for items that are not in the best condition. 
     

  • Check your lawn the day before: trim the grass, fill in any holes, and clean up after pets. Do not forget to have a clear “Not for Sale” sign on items not included in the sale. 
     

  • Display colorful balloons or other party decor to attract attention, play upbeat music in the background–make it a pleasant experience for everyone! 
     

  • Make sure shoppers have plenty of space to walk around and can get around safely. 
     

  • High-interest items and large/heavy items should be closest to the street to draw shoppers. This will also make it easier for buyers to load them. 
     

  • As the day wears on, slash prices or have a “bag” incentive: whatever shoppers can fit in a grocery bag you provide is theirs for five bucks.  

  

When the day is over, schedule a pick-up by a non-profit that will take your things away for free. It may take a few weekends to prepare and organize for your yard sale, but keep in mind that decluttering and extra cash are your goals, and it will make the effort worthwhile.  

 

Courtesy of New Castle County DE Realtors Tucker Robbins and Carol Arnott Robbins.   

Photo credit: prestigestoreit.com

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Pet Summertime Safety

Wednesday, July 5, 2023
by Tucker Robbins

When we’re enjoying the warm weather, our pets usually are, too.  When we’re spending time outdoors with family and friends, we usually include our pets.  Keeping our furry family members safe should always be a priority, and these tips may be a refresher course for some, but it never hurts to make sure all our loved ones are kept out of harm’s way. 

 

In the Backyard 

  • - Fencing should be examined to make sure there are no gaps at the bottom, and that all materials are in place and secure.  You don’t want Fluffy taking a neighborhood excursion by himself. 
     

  • - The garden and landscaping bring us great satisfaction, and animals like to take a bite of growing things occasionally.  Check these lists for cats and dogs from ASPCA to make sure you keep your pets from chewing on them. 
     

  • - Keep any swimming pool chemicals and mechanical lawn tools sealed and out of your pets’ way.  Some of these products have a scent that is enticing to animals, and they wouldn’t hesitate to give them a try.   
     

  • - It may sound sensational, but if you have an animal that is a toy breed, or weighs five pounds or less, keep an eye and ear out for any predatory birds.  Owls, hawks, and eagles have been known to attack small pets, mistaking them for a wild meal. 
     

  • - Sometimes it’s necessary to leave your dog or cat outside while you’re gone for a while.  Make sure they have adequate shelter to keep them cool, and plenty of cool water to prevent heat stroke or dehydration. 
     

  • - Allowing your cat to roam in the yard is great for them, as they are natural hunters, and they find great pleasure in all the sights and sounds.  Keep an eye on them in case they see a bird they’d like to get to know better, or find a snake in the flower bed.  Protecting wildlife and your feline friend go hand-in-hand. 

 

Out and About 

  • - Does your dog go with you for exercise while you’re biking or jogging?  Some active pet owners take a water bowl with them, so they can offer a cool drink to their pet, and you can train them to drink directly from the bottle using an adaptor created especially for dogs. 
     

  • - Going fishing or water skiing?  Make sure you have a life jacket for them, as well as an overboard plan.  If you think Fido would enjoy jumping into the water, maybe you should leave them at home or at the kennel for their safety as well as your own. 
     

  • - vetSTREET offers some great tips for taking your dog to the beach.  Heat, waves, and hot sand can all play a role in just how much fun everyone will have--or not. 
     

  • - It’s vacation time, and you’d like to bring your pet with you, so call ahead for information on pet-friendly lodging, and where they can stay for events where pets aren’t welcome. Make sure you have a vehicle safety harness or seat belt for them or their carrier while you’re traveling. 

 

Summertime brings water fun, cookouts, and don’t forget the insects!  Keep your pets safe from biting insects, and be sure they get a flea and tick repellent treatment and heartworm prevention to avoid any diseases these insects can cause down the road. Pets need to be kept as safe as small children, so take preventive measures so you can have a fun and healthy Summer with the whole family.   

 

Courtesy of New Castle County DE Realtors Tucker Robbins and Carol Arnott Robbins.   

Photo credit: Pets Animal Hospital 

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Is It Time to Stop Renting?

Wednesday, June 21, 2023
by Tucker Robbins

Between rising rent costs and the desire to have a place you can call your own, one might believe that purchasing a home is a far-off dream. Think again! There is much to consider, from finances to logistics to paint colors, many factors of homeownership are different than when you are a tenant in someone else’s home, so you need to prepare now for a new home later. 

 

  • Do you love your rental? If so, talk with your landlord about purchasing the property! Once they become aware that you are interested and possibly moving, the thought of preparing and looking for a new tenant may encourage them to agree to a sale. All you can do is ask!  
     

  • Consider purchasing a townhouse or condominium when searching for properties. Many are affordable and convenient and would make the perfect first home. 
     

  • Think about your community options--where you live can affect how much you pay in fees, property taxes, or maintenance costs. 
     

  • If you have renters’ insurance--and you should--take note that a homeowner’s policy costs more, because it covers much more than just your belongings. Most mortgages will include homeowners’ insurance in the monthly payment. If your current agent can find a cheaper rate, go for it! 

 

Do you want the freedom to paint your living room bright green? Are you tired of having to keep your growing family quiet so as not to disturb the neighbor’s downstairs? If so, it may be time to think about buying a house. Connect with a Realtor® to guide you through the entire home-buying process.  

 

Courtesy of New Castle County DE Realtors Tucker Robbins and Carol Arnott Robbins.   

 

Photo credit: ramseysolutions.com

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Maintaining Your Home's Exterior

Wednesday, June 14, 2023
by Tucker Robbins


We spend more time inside our homes than outside, and regular cleaning and maintenance of the outside of our homes is not something we think of as often. Taking care of the siding of our homes extends its lifespan and keeps our homes looking great! 
 

  • - Warm water and mild detergent are your first defense in keeping any siding material clean. Use a long-handled brush with soft bristles, and working in small sections, scrub from top to bottom to avoid streaks.
     
  • - Pressure washing is a great way to clean the outside but take care because you do not want to put a hole through vinyl or damage wood. Bob Vila offers a wonderful guide on the best use of a power washer for exteriors.
     
  • - Inspect your siding before you begin cleaning. Take care of any problems as soon as possible to prevent further damage and costly repairs. 
    - All siding: check for water or insect damage, foundational cracks 
    - Wood siding: look for peeling paint, cracked caulking boards, and trim 
    - Brick: crumbling bricks or mortar, and foundational cracks 
    - Vinyl: loose, warped, or cracked sections 
    - Stucco: cracks and holes  
  • - Painting the siding does not have to happen often, it simply depends on the material: 
    - Wood siding: every 3-7 years, or every four years if it is stained 
    - Aluminum siding: about five years 
    - Stucco: every 5-6 years 
    - Cement fiberboard siding: 10-20 years  
  • - Wood siding needs a little extra care for preventing insect and water damage. It should be treated with a sealer every two-five years, depending on where you live.
     
  • - Tougher grime, such as mildew or algae, may need more than soapy water. Hydrogen peroxide and white vinegar will remove algae and mildew, and both are better alternatives for landscaping and your lungs than chlorine bleach. Peroxide cleaners are available in most home stores. 

While the home’s exterior is a large job to tackle, once it is done it will be easier to maintain over time. Regular inspection is more important, as the elements and other factors are always present. Proper maintenance and cleaning will not only add more life to the exterior materials, but it will also maintain the value of your biggest investment! 

 

Courtesy of New Castle County DE Realtors Tucker Robbins and Carol Arnott Robbins.   

 

Photo credit: pressureperfectcleaning.com

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Fun Rainy Day Things to Do Inside Your Home

Wednesday, June 7, 2023
by Tucker Robbins

Don’t get bored being stuck inside; below is a list of a few rainy day things you can do inside your home.  If you have small children you know all too well how easily they can get bored when they are stuck inside due to bad weather.  Get them and read this list together to get started on some fun! 

 

  1. 1. One fun indoor activity you can do with your small children is to have an indoor scavenger hunt.  Write down some clues to where you have hidden items in your house and set your children out on an indoor hunt to find them!  This can be fun for you as well as you watch your kids trying their best to find what you have hidden. 
     

  1. 2. Another fun rainy day thing to-do inside your home  with your family is to go camping inside!  Get your tent out and set it up right in the middle of your family room.  You and your family can sleep in the tent together all night long!  If everyone doesn’t fit you can use sleeping bags to make it a full fledge family event.  A super fun way to make your indoor camping event even more real is to make smores in the microwave!   
     

  1. 3. Yet another fun rainy day thing to do inside is to gather all of your board games and get the entire family involved in playing them together!  If you don’t have any board games you can likely find some type of game for all to play online.   
     

  1. 4. If you don’t want to have to create something fun to do with your family, why not bake some cookies together!  It is always fun to get your little ones together in the kitchen to bake.  Have each child create their own cookie with the ingredients you have available, then let the rest of the family be judges to give the best cookie award! 

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These are a few fun rainy day things you can do inside your home that is sure to make everyone have an enjoyable time even if they can’t go outside!   

 

Courtesy of New Castle County DE Realtors Tucker Robbins and Carol Arnott Robbins.   

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The People You Meet When Buying a Home

Wednesday, May 17, 2023
by Tucker Robbins

There will be more than just you, your real estate agent, the seller, and their agent involved in the process–unless you are paying cash for a new home! Appraisers, lenders, and inspectors are just a few of the folks you will come across, and it will relieve some stress on your part if you familiarize yourself with who they are and what part they play during your house purchase. 
 

  • Real Estate Agents  
    The agent you choose will be your resource and constant contact throughout the home-buying process. In most transactions, there will be a listing agent representing the sellers, but it is unlikely you will be meeting them. 
     

  • Mortgage lenders  
    To be adequately prepared to begin looking for a new house, you should be pre-approved for a mortgage. Meet with a few different lenders to find the best loan for you; see what the balance recommends for finding the right mortgage. 
     

  • Appraiser  
    The mortgage company wants to be sure that the property is worth what the asking price. The appraiser is usually one of the lender's choosing. Learn more about what is involved with the appraisal from realtor.com®. 
     

  • Home Inspector  
    You do not want any surprises with structural issues, mold, or insect infestation after you have the keys in hand, so it is in your best interest to hire an inspector to go over your prospective home. Call several inspectors, and ask these important questions. 
     

  • Homeowners Insurance Agent   
    Most insurance companies offer a discount for having more than one policy with them, and it may be easier to go with your current insurer, so give your agent a call. Do not let that stop you from shopping around for better rates, however. 
     

  • Real Estate Attorney  
    Many states require you to hire an attorney, as they will go over all of the documents, handle funds, and perform the title search, to name a few of their jobs during the home sale process. Find out why it is always a good idea to have a real estate attorney, whether it is the law or optional. 
     

  • Title Insurer   
    In case there are any questions about the sale of the home being legitimate (no liens, family feuds, etc.), you will need title insurance, and in most cases, the lender or attorney will already have that lined up. 
     

 

These entities are typically involved in the home-buying process, but not every one. You may come across another professional or service during your experience. Your Realtor® will keep you informed of each step, so no need to be concerned if there is a step along the way you are not familiar with. Every one of them, however, is important for a smooth transaction, protecting you and your largest investment. 

 

Courtesy of New Castle County DE Realtors Tucker Robbins and Carol Arnott Robbins. 

 

Photo credit: IStock

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Tucker Robbins
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices
3838 Kennett Pike
Wilmington DE 19807
(302) 777-7744 (direct)
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