BUYING OR SELLING REAL ESTATE DELAWARE's Blog

Is this the bungalow you have been looking for?

Terri Favata, Broker, Kent & Sussex County Delaware (First Class Properties) — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 12:26:25 -0500

Open House this weekend, September 20, 2009 from 1 to 4pm!

16 NW 10th St, Milford De 19963

This home can not be that age they say it is! It has been so well kept that it is ready for its owners right away! Cozy & warm, 1.5 story, 1356 sq ft home, 3 bedroom, 1 bath bungalow with basement, & gorgeous landscaping too!

It doesn't get much better than this!

Terri Favata, Broker, Kent & Sussex County Delaware (First Class Properties) — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 12:09:12 -0500

This same house is open this weekend September 20, 2009 from 1pm to 4pm!!! Come on by and take a look at it!

Via Kayla Pearce - Real Estate Agent, Milford Delaware (Harrington ERA Realty):

Open House at 109 E. Lucky Estates Drive, Harrington Delaware!!!

When: Sunday, August 23, 2009
Time: 1pm to 4pm
Price: $349,999

WOW is the only word that can describe this beautiful custom built 3 bed, 2.5 bath ranch home with large bonus room above the two car attached garage.

Formal dining room with trey ceiling and two ornate columns, great room has cathedral ceilings with open view to dining room & kitchen area, breakfast room with plenty of windows for light as well a sliding glass door for easy access to the 10 X 14 screened in porch, large laundry room with wash sink gives you plenty of space for washing clothes.

Master bedroom features trey ceiling, full bath with whirlpool, & two walk-in closets. The 2nd bedroom also features a nice sized walk-in closet for added convenience. Tile, hardwood floors, and some carpet.

Beautifully landscaped large lot with rear fencing and Paved Patio. This home is a must see!!!!

Sure to catch your eye!!!

Terri Favata, Broker, Kent & Sussex County Delaware (First Class Properties) — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 12:34:58 -0500

Open House this weekend!!!!

Where: 5837 Milford Harrington Hwy, Harrington De 19952

When: Sunday, September 13, 2009 from 1pm to 4pm

This cozy 1512 sq ft home has 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, & a 2 car garage with a side entrance! Located on just over a half acre with a corner lot at the entrance of John Char Estates. A split bedroom floor plan, front porch, & a large living room make this home absolutely fantastic!! Stop by this weekend for your personal tour!!!

Price: Only $199,000!!!!

For more information call:
Mickey Mateo, Realtor
ERA Harrington Realty
(302) 270-3174 Cell
or (302) 422-2424 Office

100% Financing!

Terri Favata, Broker, Kent & Sussex County Delaware (First Class Properties) — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 15:07:20 -0500

This is a great informational post for buyers!!! Definitely a must read!!!

Via Kayla Pearce - Real Estate Agent, Milford Delaware (Harrington ERA Realty):

Things to know about!

USDA: Rural Development

Guaranteed Rural Housing Program

Must be a fixed rate loan for 30 years

Must be compliant with VA rate plus 60 basis points

No maximum mortgage limit

Adjusted Income Limits:

            Kent County & Sussex County:
                        1 to 4 people: $74,050
                        5 to 8 people: $97,750

        New Castle County:

                        1 to 4 people: $89,500

                        5 to 8 people: $118,150

You must be planning to occupy the dwelling on a permanent basis

Can not presently own a dwelling in the local commuting area (within 50 miles from present employment).

You do NOT have to be a first time home buyer.

The home must be in an eligible rural area, please check website for eligibility. http://eligibility.sc.egov.usda.gov

No minimum credit score but there are unacceptable indicators.

Credit score of 620 or higher qualify for streamlined documentation. This means no documentations or explanations will be required for any problems on credit history (except Federal debt or Agency Loan).

Credit is always evaluated on a case by case basis.

A guarantee fee of 2% is charged by the Rural Development to the total loan amount.

This fee can be included in the loan, so the maximum loan amount may be 102% of the appraised value.

Closing costs & lender’s fee may also be included in the loan amount, but only if the appraisal value of the property allows.

This house is priced to SELL!!!

Terri Favata, Broker, Kent & Sussex County Delaware (First Class Properties) — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 14:57:31 -0500

Open House this Sunday, August 23, 2009 from 1pm to 4pm at
546 Canterbury Rd, Milford De

This 3 bedroom, 2 bath brick rancher could definitely steal your heart!!!

From the landscaped yard, above ground pool, or enclosed porch

to the new kitchen, bathrooms, brick wood burning fireplaces, finished basements, & much more!!

This convenienty located homes boasts FRESH PAINT, NEW CARPET, built in china cabinet, large eat-in kitchen, & a hot water heater that was installed in 2006.

This is your chance to own an absolutely fabulous home!!!

How to sell your home faster!!!

Terri Favata, Broker, Kent & Sussex County Delaware (First Class Properties) — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 11:59:50 -0500

Here are a few keys that could help you sell your faster!!! There are plenty of things that we as Realtors should be doing, but there are also things that need to be done on your end as well. These are just a few of the things that could help you sell your house a bit faster!

Price. Price is the key to all hearts. Have your Realtor do a CMA, and see what has sold, what has been removed from the market, and what is listed actively on the market right now. You don't want to put your house on the market at $269,000 when the last 4 homes that have sold that are very similar to yours have sold for $225,000. Likewise if a house like yours has been sitting on the market for over 150 days at $265,00. Competitevly price your home to sell.

Clean & Declutter. Put dirty clothes away, out of sight. Put dishes in dishwasher. Make your beds. Take down personal photos, and if you have a lot of nick-nacks, start packing them up! You are trying to sell your house anyway, so why not start the packing a little early! Make the beds, fix the pillows on the couch. Be ready to show your house at any given moment.

Tidy up the outside. You know what they say "don't judge a book by its cover" but by all means, most people do anyway. They look at the outside of a home, with no landscaping, a shutter hanging by a thread, and a screen with a big hole in it, & the grass hasn't been cut in over 2 weeks, & they think "well.... if they can't keep up with the outside, then there is no way they are keeping up with the inside". So keep your grass cut, maybe add a little touch of landscaping (don't over do it), and make sure all of the shutters, siding, window screens, etc are in working order. & don't forget to spray the weed killer! Make your home desirable and people will desire it.

You have to understand that sometimes it is the little things like these that could help sell your home. If potential buyers can picture themselves living in your home, can picture their furniture, and their belongings in your home... then they can see themselves buying that home. If buyers can drive up to your home and say wow, this home is taken care of on the outside, and go inside and see the same thing, then they are going to feel at ease & know that this home was loved and cared for. This is going to make your home stand out to other sellers who have not taken the time to do these such things, which is going to make these buyers remember your house!

The changing in Sales!!!

Terri Favata, Broker, Kent & Sussex County Delaware (First Class Properties) — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 08:29:23 -0500

The following information is Based on May 2009 Sales, Versus May 2005 Sales. I will also be comparing January 2009 to May 2009 Sales. This information is only for Kent County, Delaware.

Residential Settled This Month
	May, 2009

Price Class	Houses Sold	SF	Condos Sold	Condo
	# of Bedrooms	Total	# of Bedrooms	Total
	0-2	3	4+	Sales	0-2	3	4+	Sales
No Price Reported				0				0
$49,999 or Under		1		1				0
$50,000 - $99,999	3	2	2	7				0
$100,000 - $149,999	3	8	2	13				0
$150,000 - $199,999	1	18	2	21				0
$200,000 - $249,999		10	10	20				0
$250,000 - $299,999		4	12	16				0
$300,000 - $349,999		1	6	7				0
$350,000 - $399,999		1	2	3				0
$400,000 - $449,999			2	2				0
$450,000 - $499,999				0				0
$500,000 - $549,999				0				0
$550,000 - $599,999				0				0
$600,000 - $649,999				0				0
$650,000 - $699,999				0				0
$700,000 - $749,999			1	1				0
$750,000 - $799,999				0				0
$800,000 - $849,999				0				0
$850,000 - $899,999				0				0
$900,000 - $949,999				0				0
$950,000 - $999,999				0				0
$1,000,000 - $1,999,999				0				0
$2,000,000 - $2,999,999				0				0
$3,000,000 - $3,999,999				0				0
$4,000,000 - $4,999,999				0				0
5,000,000 and Over				0				0

Total Units	7	45	39	91				0
Total Value (in 1,000s)				$19,513.08				$0.00

Median Price (in 1,000s)	$121.90	$183.90	$261.90	$208.65	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
Avg Price (in 1,000s)	$107.70	$183.98	$268.72	$214.43	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
Avg Sold Price/Original Price	88%	90%	91%	90%	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A

Days on Market
DOM	Houses	Condos
0 - 30	30	0
31 - 60	15	0
61 - 90	6	0
91 - 120	6	0
121 - 180	12	0
181 +	22	0

Financing
Financing	Houses	Condos
Cash	14	0
Conv	34	0
FHA	22	0
Other	5	0
VA	16	0

Now, hold on to your seats. This is during the "boom"!!!!!

Residential Settled This Month
	May, 2005

Price Class	Houses Sold	SF	Condos Sold	Condo
	# of Bedrooms	Total	# of Bedrooms	Total
	0-2	3	4+	Sales	0-2	3	4+	Sales
No Price Reported				0				0
$49,999 or Under		1	1	2				0
$50,000 - $99,999	4	11		15	1			1
$100,000 - $149,999	8	18	2	28	1			1
$150,000 - $199,999	5	39	14	58				0
$200,000 - $249,999	1	29	20	50				0
$250,000 - $299,999		10	20	30				0
$300,000 - $349,999		2	5	7				0
$350,000 - $399,999		2		2				0
$400,000 - $449,999			5	5				0
$450,000 - $499,999			1	1				0
$500,000 - $549,999			2	2				0
$550,000 - $599,999				0				0
$600,000 - $649,999				0				0
$650,000 - $699,999				0				0
$700,000 - $749,999				0				0
$750,000 - $799,999				0				0
$800,000 - $849,999				0				0
$850,000 - $899,999				0				0
$900,000 - $949,999				0				0
$950,000 - $999,999				0				0
$1,000,000 - $1,999,999				0				0
$2,000,000 - $2,999,999				0				0
$3,000,000 - $3,999,999				0				0
$4,000,000 - $4,999,999				0				0
5,000,000 and Over				0				0

Total Units	18	112	70	200	2			2
Total Value (in 1,000s)				$41,312.81				$205.00

Median Price (in 1,000s)	$139.50	$181.58	$245.00	$195.00	$85.00	N/A	N/A	$85.00
Avg Price (in 1,000s)	$133.77	$185.16	$259.53	$206.56	$102.50	N/A	N/A	$102.50
Avg Sold Price/Original Price	97%	100%	99%	99%	90%	N/A	N/A	90%

Days on Market
DOM	Houses	Condos
0 - 30	123	1
31 - 60	32	0
61 - 90	8	0
91 - 120	10	0
121 - 180	15	1
181 +	12	0

Financing
Financing	Houses	Condos
Cash	19	1
Conv	150	1
FHA	10	0
Other	6	0
VA	15	0

And this is in comparison to January 2009

Residential Settled This Month
	January, 2009

Price Class	Houses Sold	SF	Condos Sold	Condo
	# of Bedrooms	Total	# of Bedrooms	Total
	0-2	3	4+	Sales	0-2	3	4+	Sales
No Price Reported				0				0
$49,999 or Under				0				0
$50,000 - $99,999	2			2				0
$100,000 - $149,999	1	7		8				0
$150,000 - $199,999	1	14	3	18				0
$200,000 - $249,999		6	4	10				0
$250,000 - $299,999		6	7	13				0
$300,000 - $349,999			4	4				0
$350,000 - $399,999			2	2				0
$400,000 - $449,999			1	1				0
$450,000 - $499,999				0				0
$500,000 - $549,999				0				0
$550,000 - $599,999				0				0
$600,000 - $649,999				0				0
$650,000 - $699,999				0				0
$700,000 - $749,999				0				0
$750,000 - $799,999				0				0
$800,000 - $849,999				0				0
$850,000 - $899,999				0				0
$900,000 - $949,999				0				0
$950,000 - $999,999				0				0
$1,000,000 - $1,999,999				0				0
$2,000,000 - $2,999,999				0				0
$3,000,000 - $3,999,999				0				0
$4,000,000 - $4,999,999				0				0
5,000,000 and Over				0				0

Total Units	4	33	21	58				0
Total Value (in 1,000s)				$12,602.96				$0.00

Median Price (in 1,000s)	$91.90	$187.10	$269.83	$213.00	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
Avg Price (in 1,000s)	$117.73	$194.08	$272.74	$217.29	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
Avg Sold Price/Original Price	89%	92%	93%	92%	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A

Days on Market
DOM	Houses	Condos
0 - 30	16	0
31 - 60	9	0
61 - 90	9	0
91 - 120	6	0
121 - 180	9	0
181 +	9	0

Financing
Financing	Houses	Condos
Cash	6	0
Conv	21	0
FHA	15	0
Other	4	0
VA	12	0

Sales have dropped drastically over the past 4 years, but good news is coming because sales are UP from just 4 months ago!! Hopefully this good news keeps coming to us every month!!

Own a Piece of History!!!!!

Terri Favata, Broker, Kent & Sussex County Delaware (First Class Properties) — Wed, 20 May 2009 14:49:27 -0500

A piece of Milford Delaware history is for sale!!!!! Solidly built, well maintained Greek Revival style home from the 1850's in Milford historic district. Original woodwork detailing and ornate wood columns, both inside and outside. Gracious windows throughout!!!!

Features:Close proximity to downtown Milford, Riverwalk, and other local amenities & attractions!!!!

Lots of living space in rooms with high ceilings and plenty of daylight.Gracious living room and library, both with working brick fireplaces. Front living room has all season sun room with large glass casement windows. Library has built in bookcases and energy efficient fireplace insert. Gorgeous wood stairway in living room with landing at top. Sunlit landing is perfect for reading/sewing space or home office. Home also has a back stairway for extra convenience.

Kitchen and baths have custom made cabinets and up to date fixtures. Kitchen island for informal dining. Recent upgrades include high grade solid vinyl flooring, new light fixtures and updating on cabinet hardware/colors, coordinated by professional designer. Convenient laundry room next to kitchen has pleasant wrap-around windows. Kitchen has large, old fashioned closet pantry for storing food in bulk. Upstairs bath has soaking bathtub, angle shower, plus his and her sinks in well lighted vanity with large mirrors.

Entertainment features include a large dining room with built-in glass china cupboard, an intermediate hallway with butlers pantry and glass china cupboard between kitchen and dining room.

Behind the kitchen is a large family room (or home office) with glass doors to an exterior wood deck which overlooks a beautifully landscaped yard with large trees. Well shaded brick patio and walkways to street and rear parking area.

Plenty of storage space!!!Each bedroom features a generously sized closet. The bathroom has two full height storage cabinets and approximately 10 linear feet of vanity. An antique linen closet is built into the second floor hallway. Next to the bathroom is a separate dressing room with 8 feet of closet rod, drawers, & shelves. Large attic with stairway and energy saving exhaust fan for hot weather! Property has a large shed with shelving for garden equipment and other outdoor items!

PROPERTY FEATURES!!!!

Single family housing in historic district of Milford Delaware
Living area: 2766 sq ft
County: Sussex
Subdivision: Milford
Price: $298,000
Age: 150+/-
4 bedrooms
1.5 baths
Two story
Style: Greek Revival
Large Living room with Fireplace
Large library with fireplace
2 stairways; 1 formal, 1 service
Dining Room
Kitchen
Family Room with exterior deck
All season Sun Room
Laundry Room
3 large bedrooms + 1 small bedroom
Basement
Hardwood floors
2 fireplaces
Fireplace features: Brick, stove insert
Parking spaces: 2 private + ample public parking
Heating Features: Oil, Boiler carefully maintained with service contract
Cooling Features: 5 efficient window units (included)
Inclusions: Kitchen Double sink with new gooseback faucet, Kitchen Island, Oven self-cleaning, Refrigerator, Electric Range, dishwasher, full size washer and dryer
Exterior Construction: Brick foundation, old timber framing and siding
Roofing: Asphalt Shingle
Lot size: Approximately 45 X 147 feet (.15 Acres)
Lot size: less than a half acre
Utilities Present: Public Water, sewer, and electricity
School District: Milford

Call Terri Favata to Schedule your showing today!!! (302) 242-1782!!!!

Wanna Sell that house fast??????

Terri Favata, Broker, Kent & Sussex County Delaware (First Class Properties) — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 09:20:50 -0500

Let’s face it; if your house is on the market, you WANT it to sell. You don’t want it to sit there for months and months without any showings, any offers, or no one showing any interest. You can’t always blame this on your Realtor, because it may not be their fault.

What I want to talk about today is the dos and don’ts of today’s market. Just a few tips that may help you sell your home just a little bit quicker.

DO price your home accordingly. We all know what you would “like” to get out of your home, but in today’s market that may be unreasonable. Have your Realtor do a CMA so you are educated on what homes are going for in your area!

DON’T overprice your home thinking that everyone will be interested in it, because it is that much better than everyone else’s home. Sure you have a great home, but if it is overpriced from the door, people may not even stop to look at it. This will not be your Realtors fault if they can not get anyone grabbing at it. Overpricing your home is not going to sell it.

DO make sure that the outside appeal is just as nice as the inside appeal. A lot of people look at homes on the internet or just go out driving to look for homes before they ever come in contact with a Realtor to actually schedule showing to see your home. Make sure you are grabbing the consumer’s attention from the first picture or that first drive by.

DON’T leave unused cars, trash, work equipment, etc. at your house if you do not have to have it there. The nicer your home looks on the outside the more chances you have to reel in a consumer. As much as we say “don’t judge a book by its cover” most people do, remember that!

DO keep your house ready to show at any given moment. That means beds made, dirty clothes in hiding, dishes put away. It’s tough, but people want to look at a clean house. If they see you live like a slob, are they going to think you take care of your home? No. Even if it isn’t that dirty, there is a certain standard that consumers expect to see when they are looking at homes.

DON’T keep personal items out on display. People walk into your home imagining if they could live there. Seeing your pictures or personal affects takes away from there dream.

DO listen to your Realtor when they talk to you. Believe it or not, we do know a bit about the Real Estate Market. We are not trying to steer you, or push you in a direction you don’t want to go. We just want you to be educated, and expectant of what may come in the future. Don’t take it personally; we are just doing our job. More importantly, we WANT to sell your home!

DON’T listen to your aunt, cousin, sister, neighbor, etc about what you should do with YOUR home (unless they are in the Real Estate business too). A lot of people form their opinions from things that either happened to them, the news, or what other people have told them. They are not the professionals, we are. We want to help you, so let us!

** There are more details that I could give you, but I don’t want to flood everyone’s brain on a Monday morning! If you would like anymore tips, please feel free to contact me today!!!! **

Now is the TIME TO BUY!!!!

Terri Favata, Broker, Kent & Sussex County Delaware (First Class Properties) — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 11:30:35 -0500

Many consumers here us say "Now is the time to BUY", but some consumers have no idea why. If you are one of them, look no further! Your answers are all right here!!!!

Interest Rates are at record lows!!!! With good qualified buyers, you are sure to get a great rate!
First time home buyers are being given up to $8000 in tax credit!
You are getting more house for your money these days!!!!
There is a lot of inventory to choose from!

If you are thinking about buying a home, talk with a REALTOR today! We are professionals who are here to help you, educate you, and serve you!!!

What a Steal!

Terri Favata, Broker, Kent & Sussex County Delaware (First Class Properties) — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 09:57:11 -0600

This 3 yr old, 2203 square foot home has just been reduced to $259,900!!! WOW!!!

This ranch home is delightful from every aspect... The beautifully landscaped yard, cozy front porch, and large driveway are just the beginning of all the great things to come with this home.

Once on the inside you are greeted by a full eat in kitchen, with plenty of counter space, pocket doors, 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, as well a 4 season room.

The dining room is large with many windows giving plenty of light, making the room feel more welcoming to you and your guests.

The glory doesn't end there, this home also has a new deck, fresh paint, a new kitchen sink and faucet, as well as a partially fenced in rear yard!

Call me today if your interested in scheduling a showing! You don't want to miss out on this gorgeous opportunity!!!! (302) 242-1782 - Terri Favata

Wow, lets talk about class!!!

Terri Favata, Broker, Kent & Sussex County Delaware (First Class Properties) — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 12:32:26 -0600

You can't help but just feel completely classy when you tour this 3 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath home on Kings Hwy in Milford, Delaware. The updating that has been done to this home throughout the past year is utterly amazing, and is bound to make you say "ooh" more than once. No small detail was overlooked & everything was done with the highest of standards.

Here is a list of things that have been redone during 2008.....

NEW IN 2008:
Hardwood Floors in Living Room
Hardwood floors throughout the whole Second Floor
New Windows Going Up Steps
New Carpet in Office/Den
Fresh Paint throughout
New Lighting and Fans
New Heat Pump on Second Floor
New Washer and Dryer
Finished Interior of Garage
6 ft Privacy Fence
Sod
Irrigation system
In-ground pool
Stamped Pavers
built-in Grill w/Refrigerator
Hot Tub
Paved Driveway
Retaining Wall in Front Yard
Vinyl Siding
Gutters w/Guards
Soffett
New Carriage Garage Doors

Some "extras" include the following items:

Sauna in basement
Central Vac
Full Basement
Double Entry Doors to Large 2 Story Foyer
Two Gas Fireplaces
Service door to dining room

The true beauty of this home starts with the staircase & bay windows for lights, the white kitchen cabinets with recessed lighting, the two gas fireplaces, the new hardwood floors, and the awesome private retreat of a backyard.

Schedule your APPOINTMENT today to this MAGNIFECENT HOME on Kings Hwy in MILFORD Delaware by calling Terri Favata with Harrington ERA Realty @ (302) 242-1782 or (302) 422-2424.....

[[who wouldnt LOOOOVE to cook on this grill in the summer?!?!]]

Endless Opportunities With This Property!

Terri Favata, Broker, Kent & Sussex County Delaware (First Class Properties) — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 08:42:36 -0600

5282 Yuletide Lane, Milford Delaware $1,498,445

This spectacular 18 acre, WATERFRONT property on the Mispillion River in Milford Delaware is one of a kind. With a main home, a guest home, a barn and a previously used gift shop that is attached to the main garage, you are sure to have everything you need with this incredible home package. You will find gorgeous cedar siding and a 10 foot wide wrap around porch on the main home, which gives this property a delightfully cozy country feeling.

As you walk through the front door you are welcomed by 4 working fireplaces, mahogany floors, granite counter tops, & an all season room that overlooks a perfect rose garden. Four large bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths, large dining room, living room, & extra living room all within this marvelous home!

This home features a first floor master suite, with full bath that is characterized by a large whirlpool tub. Pocket doors open to an enormous walk-in closet & pull down stairs bring you to a large sewing room all within the Master Suite.

The kitchen is absolutely stunning with top of the line appliances, perfect for any chef in the family. This home has been approved as a B&B all you would need is your license!

The second 24x24 log cabin also has a large 12x24 ft, 2 sided porch. Perfect as an in-law suite, guest house, or a rental! This cabin includes a living room, dining room, kitchen, open second floor, full bath, as well as a full basement with a laundry room. This remarkable property is zoned agriculture, & is currently being used as a Christmas tree farm! The possibilities are endless with this incredible property!

If you would like to view this property by virtual tour, please visit us here!

BROKER'S OPEN!

LIGHT SNACKS

FEB 4TH, 2009

11:00AM-1:00PM

RAFFLING OFF A SURPRISE AT THE END OF THE DAY!

This property is on the MLS & if you would like more information, please call me today!

The Victorian Lady!!!

Terri Favata, Broker, Kent & Sussex County Delaware (First Class Properties) — Fri, 23 Jan 2009 10:00:27 -0600

Today I had the chance to visit a pretty intriguing place, called The Victorian Lady, which is located in the historic district of Milford Delaware. The Victorian Lady is a Tea House, as well as a gift & antique shop.

If you want to go to a place that makes you feel like you are in another era, to sit and relax with your friends for a calm afternoon, then this is a good place to start! With a large dining room & a small meeting room, The Victorian Lady can service everyone.

In the afternoon they offer The Queen's Tea, which is a 4 course meal including tea sandwiches, soup, scones, & tea. In the early evening they offer The Victorian Tea, which is a 3 course meal including tea sandwiches, scones, & tea.

They also have a full service menu, or smaller items like the Cream Tea or the Luncheon Tea. They do small meetings, church groups, baby shower, bridal showers, Red Hat Meetings & classes on the health benefits of tea. In the past they have had events like Phantom of the Opera night where people dressed the theme, played music from The Phantom of the Opera, they served The Queen's Tea, & in the end they gave a surprise that made everyone want to stay for more! They have had Princess Tea (for the little girls), Valentine's tea, and chocolate lover's tea (mmmmm, that sounds like the one for me!)

In the gift shop they offer 65 different loose leaf teas that are available in 2 & 4 ounce tins. They also offer pillows, linens, music, tea cups, tea pots, & lots more!

This wonderful place has been open for 4 yrs, but the building dates back to the early 1800's. It is on the historic registry, and the beauty that has been preserved within this building is magical. All of the scones are homemade by one of the owners & have been quite a hit with the guests at The Victorian Lady!

Really, go see for yourself! If you EVER have a chance to stop in to Milford Delaware, I highly suggest you stop at The Victorian Lady! Located at 112 NW Front Street, Milford De 19963! If you would like more information you can visit them personally on the web at The Victorian Lady!

I hope you enjoyed this as much as I did!

How can simple technology harm you?

Terri Favata, Broker, Kent & Sussex County Delaware (First Class Properties) — Tue, 06 Jan 2009 12:30:37 -0600

Have you ever talked to a client or agent over the phone, and in the end said "well I'll get to work on that right now, and email it on over when I am done, what's your email address?"

Okay so maybe not those particular words, but I am sure almost daily you ask someone for their email address. Its easier, its less time consuming, they can read it or view it when THEY have the time, and your already on the computer so why not just send it over that way (in most cases)?

But have you ever had a client or another agent say, I'm sorry I just don't "do" email. You know, they just aren't with it. They don't send, write, read or recieve emails.

Wait, what?!

I just don't understand how anyone, in the work world can go without something as simple as an email address. I think that people who don't have an email address should be told how they are not only hurting themselves, but they are hurting their potential clients, or people who work for them. Having something as small as an email address is very important in this business as I am sure most of you are aware. So how do people go without it?

Sometimes people are hard to get into contact with, their never by a fax machine, so sending an email over is just about the only way to go. What do they do in that case? Send them a letter, leave them fifteen voice mails?

What if it is late at night and you want to get something over to your client right away, but they don't have an email address, they can't meet until the following evening, they have no fax, and you can't drop it off by their work? Without having the right means to stay in contact with someone, the system that us Realtors use fails.

ANY THOUGHTS? What do you say if this happens?

Happy Holidays everyone!

Terri Favata, Broker, Kent & Sussex County Delaware (First Class Properties) — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 09:43:02 -0600

Well I am going to be out of town this weekend, and I am not sure when I will be back, so I just wanted to say

HAPPY HOLIDAYS EVERYONE!

I hope you all have a joyous and merry time!!! I'll see you after the new year!!!

Of course, I will still be taking phone calls, checking emails, and taking care of business... I may not make it back on here until after the new year rings in!

Terri Favata

ERA Harrington Realty-Milford

Thinking of buying a home in Kent or Sussex County Milford Delaware?

Terri Favata, Broker, Kent & Sussex County Delaware (First Class Properties) — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 13:52:27 -0600

Are you currently thinking about buying a home in the Kent or Sussex County Milford Delaware area?

Do you need more information on the area, or want to view houses in those areas and have no idea how to get what you need?

I am a dedicated, knowledgeable Realtor who is ready to work for YOU! If you are interested in buying a home in Milford, Harrington, Lincoln, or Houston area, or any other area throughout Kent or Sussex County then please feel free to contact me at anytime.

I have Buyer's packages ready and available for all of my customers so please don't hesitate to ask!

I also have previously posted some blogs about information pretaining to Kent & Sussex County, as well as Milford Delaware that may be beneficial to you.

If there is anything else I can do for you, please contact me today!

Terri Favata

Realtor

ERA Harrington Realty-Milford

(302) 422-2424 Office

(302) 242-1782 Cell

http://www.terriandmickeyhomes.com

Whats your dog getting for Christmas!? =)

Terri Favata, Broker, Kent & Sussex County Delaware (First Class Properties) — Fri, 12 Dec 2008 08:36:42 -0600

I love my dog. That's all there is to it. Do you know that last year I thought more about all the things I could buy my precious Sam for Christmas, rather than what I could buy my husband or son. I know it's bad, tell me about it!

Did you miss that?! Yes I buy presents for my dog. I can't help it. I just love him that much. I know I am not the only one that does this. My sons girlfriend, Kayla, does this as well.

Today is Friday, and I want it to be a fun smiling day! Tell me about all the things you do for your dog around Christmas, or anytime of the year! Trust me, I would LOVE to hear it! Make me smile, send me pictures, make me laugh, send me videos! I want to see it all!!!!

How to keep your listings FRESH!

Terri Favata, Broker, Kent & Sussex County Delaware (First Class Properties) — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 13:08:53 -0600

In the tough market, a lot of sellers have been asking me the "golden question"... what can you do to sell my home?

Well I am sure we all pretty much in a nut shell do the same thing, market it every where we can, online and in the papers... but of course we explain that in detail. No need to go over what we already know, right?

So here is my "new trick"...

I have recently thought of something else to do, that I would like to share with you all. I am going to make at least two write ups of every listing I have, and use them both. Every couple of weeks, I will switch everything to keep listings from looking boring. That way people that come through more than once, might find one description more eye catching than my other one.

I know that all of my listings that I told about this were very enthusiastic about it, and were really appreciative.

I am also adding A LOT more photos to all of my websites. I mean a lot. Pretty much as many as they will let me have. The key is taking good quality photos though. Not using the crappy ones just to fill up space.

I really want to hear everyone's ideas today. What is everyone doing outside of the norm to get their listings moving? Please share everything!!!!

Don't get fed up with your search to find a home, that means you Realtors too!

Terri Favata, Broker, Kent & Sussex County Delaware (First Class Properties) — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 13:32:04 -0500

Have you ever felt like you were on a wild goose chase looking for a home?

I have heard countless stories within my company, from other agents, from friends and families, where people get so discouraged at looking at all the wrong houses that they just want to give up looking all together! Well thats no way to find your dreanm home or sell a home!!!!

What can we as Realtors do to make this process easier for us, as well as easier for the buyers?

Its about quality not quantity. Whether you are a buyer yourself or a Realtor, look at houses that you or your clients are going to be interested in. Just because it is in the right price range, area, or neighborhood does not automatically make it the home for you. It may only have 2 bedrooms and you need 3, or one bathroom and you need 2. Make sure you look into the home before you go and look at it.

Find out what you want. If you are a buyer, make a list of things that you have to have, things you want, and things you could go without. That way you can give them to your Realtor and they will know what to look for when they are searching for houses for you. This will narrow down the search for them, and will also make things easier for you!

Give yourself time. A lot of Realtors are willing to give their clients the time they need to look at the homes in their area, but they feel like their clients want to see as much as they can within a short amount of time. Seeing so many houses is going to get your head all rattled and you are going to feel overwhelmed by the big decision you are going to have to make.

Write it down. I tell a lot of my buyers to right down what they liked and didnt like about each house they go to see. Once we are done looking, I have them sit down and weigh the pros and cons. Seeing it, instead of just hearing it, makes it easier to make an informed decision!

Don't settle for Less. Now this could be taken a few different ways, but this is what I mean by this. Dont settle for a home you only semi-like just because you don't want to look for anymore. Most people stay in their homes for quite a long time and you dont want to get into something you don't really want.

Don't get caught up on the small details. I hear so many people say "I love this home, but I just can not stand the wallpaper, the paint, or the carpet. Those are small details. Maybe you wont be able to change the colors right away, but down the road you will be able to do that. Recarpeting is much easier to do than buying a home where you have to rebuild a garage because it only had one, but the room colors were right.

Hopefully this helps everyone! I know what its like to be caught up showing your clients a million homes and they dont like ANY of them. Know your clients, and what exactly they are looking for.

Thanks,

Terri Favata

What type of living can you expect in Mid to Southern Delaware?

Terri Favata, Broker, Kent & Sussex County Delaware (First Class Properties) — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 08:20:17 -0500

What type of living can you expect in Mid to Southern Delaware?

Ask yourself this:

Do you wanna be close enough to everything a city offers, but not too close? If thats what you have in mind, then Mid to Southern Delaware is probably a place you should flag.

Its close enough to a few cities like, Wilmington, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Annapolis, as well as Washington DC. But its not too close that you spend more time in your car stuck in traffic than you do with family at home =]. Thats always a plus to me anyway!

Delaware has what I would like to call, four types of living. Town living, country living, beach living, and city living (for Wilmington, Newark area only). What type of living would you like to be in?

Town living is pretty much standard to most people. You know your close enough to Walmart if you need something quick. Everything is right there for you within a matter of say...five minutes (give or take). This would include neighborhoods in town, as well as homes outside of neighborhoods. Not crowded but enough people around for your kids to have friends, people around if you need help, and friends for the new neighbors to make.

Country living (thats the living I do) is growing more and more popular by the second. This is when you live outside of town, your still fairly close in some areas, but you can go to extreme measures and be twenty to thirty minutes from anything. Less extreme would be ten to fifteen minutes. You could still live in a neighborhood, or out of neighborhood. You may have close neighbors, and you may not. You may own over a acre, a couple acres, or just under an acre. It really all depends on where you are and what you are looking at. This area is normally not crowded at all. Your kids may or may not have friends close enough to play with everyday, but they are only a short drive away. You may not have anyone close enough if you need help, but you may, it depends on how close those neighbors are!

Now beach living! Thats my kind of living, even if I never get to experience it. You live relatively close to the beach areas. You may be able to see the beach, you may be able to walk to it, or you may still have to drive. Either case, I am sure you can at least smell the beach in the summer time. They say the living is easy at the beach, but in the summer time here to beaches are crowded and traffic...well...stinks. But its worth it if you want to be close to all of nice places to eat, good shopping deals (tanger outlets), and much much more. This area is going to be more crowded in the summer of course. But if you live in an area where you dont see many tourists than your not going to be too hurt by the change of seasons. Depending on where you live your kids may or not have companions close by, but again probably not too far away either. Lots of adults live in this area so you should not have a problem making friends (if you want them! [= )

City living is living in the city. Apartments, condos, those kinds of things. You may have a yard, you may not. Parking garages, parking on the street, if your lucky you may have a driveway. Everything is at your fingertips, you can probably walk to some places if you want. Things are always busier in the city!

Now with that said. Mid to Southern Delaware obviously is home to only three types of living, if any of those fit you, then read on!

No matter which three areas you choose to live in, the things you can find to do are going to be about the same. The cities which are probably no more than one to two hours away offer things like aquariums, zoos, concerts, shows, water parks, Theme parks, shopping, baseball games, basketball games and football games.

So your close, but not too close as I like to say. Its not something you would have to do everyday, but if you wanted to, its reachable.

The beach area offers shopping, water parks, THE BEACH, boardwalk life, put put golf, surf lessons, and things of that nature. This is also only about half hour to an hour from Mid Delaware, say the Dover area.

So yeah, thats pretty much all there is to it! If you want to check out home in Kent or Sussex County Delaware, you know what to do!

How Spoiled is your DOG?!

Terri Favata, Broker, Kent & Sussex County Delaware (First Class Properties) — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 07:58:48 -0500

Okay, enough about real estate, its Wednesday and real estate is coming out of my ears already!

I needed a break, so this morning I slept in until about 8:20am. Yeah thats late for me! Guess who snuggled with me from the time my husband left at 5:30am until just now?!?! Thats right, my 4 year old 130 lb Golden Retriever! He loves to cuddle. I was told by my son and his girlfriend yesterday that when I leave for work, Samson (my dog) wont do anything. He mopes around the house all day until I get home! How sad is that?! Then when I get home he cries and cries and finally takes a couple laps around the house to finish off the excitement! I love this dog, I would sell my house to save him! =]

So today, I am not going into the office. I am staying home, drinking coffee, hanging with my Samson, and blogging on here! Good day to you all! =]~

So my question to all of you today is, how spoiled is your dog? Tell me your stories!

Terri Favata

Realtor

ERA Harrington Realty

The news, hurting us or well hurting us?! Milford Delaware Real Estate

Terri Favata, Broker, Kent & Sussex County Delaware (First Class Properties) — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 11:03:03 -0500

It seems like every time I turn on the news there is something said about local real estate. Its never good news (like that our average sales have gone up from last month) or anything good in general either. Its always about how "bad" the market is, and how everyone is suffering from it. Ok, I agree, the market isnt the best right now.

But in my opinion right now is the time to buy. Houses are selling for less than what they were before and people are able to get a bargain for their money. Home owners who need to sell are willing to negotiate price, offer closing costs, etc. People need to sell their houses so they are willing to negogtiate, bottom line. In my opinion that is good for everyone. Five years ago houses were outrageous in my area and no one was willing to move anywhere on the price or the closing costs, or anything for that matter. Now that things have taken a step backwards people are coming back to the realizations that there 1800, 20 year old house, isnt going to sell for $400000.

Ok, back to the news. The news doesnt make it any better for people though. Think about it, if you are not a realtor would you rather hear that the market is bad, or experience first hand? Would you rather hear a crash crash hurts or experience first hand? I mean thats what it comes down to. People only have to HEAR that things are bad, and they are going to turn around and run from selling or buying their home. Why dont we talk about how things are changing, and speak about how the market is going in general. Why does it always have to be well the numbers of homes being sold from this time last year to today is down 10% or whatever it may be? And they dont talk about it when something goes up instead of going down. They just omit that all together. I mean is it so hard for the news to talk about something in a good way?!?! Or do people not like to hear the good in things either?!

Terri Favata

Realtor

ERA Harrington Realty

Milford Delaware

THE FEDS BRINGING THE RATE DOWN!!! TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THIS WHILE WE CAN!

Terri Favata, Broker, Kent & Sussex County Delaware (First Class Properties) — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 21:49:28 -0500

LETS GET OUT THERE AND LET ALL OUR BUYERS, POTENTIAL BUYERS AND JUST EVERYBODY WE CAN, KNOW THAT WE NEED TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE LOWER RATES AND PLENTY OF CHOICES. BUY, BUY, BUY!!!!!!

SELLERS TOO!!! THEY NEED TO BE FLEXIBLE ALONG WITH THE RATES TO GIVE INCENTIVE TO THE BUYERS SO WE CAN ALL BE A PART OF BOOSTING THE ECONOMY.

GIVE IMPRESSION OF A GOOD MARKET!

Terri Favata, Broker, Kent & Sussex County Delaware (First Class Properties) — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 11:22:26 -0500

It does seem like the media is against us,that is for sure. We need to take the negative effect and turn it to positive. We need to let our family, friends, and everyone we come into contact with all the positive things that will come out of the stabling market we are in. Buying or Selling we are the ones to make it happen!!!!!