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Carolyn Roland- In Delaware and S. Chester County PA
Selling older and historic homes in New Castle and Kent County Delaware, and Southern Chester County, Pennsylvania since 1987.
Cell: (302) 593-5111
Office: (302) 239-3000
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Real Estate Agent
Letitia Stevenson
Letitia A. Stevenson, REALTOR®, Listing Agent - Licensed in DE, PA & MD Affiliated with BHHS Fox & Roach REALTORS® | Certified Negotiation Expert (CNE) | Success Coach | Home Marketing Consultant
Office: (302) 426-4426
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All About Delaware Real Estate

By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
If you’ve been waiting for the right moment to buy a home in New Castle County, Delaware, this fall season might just be it. According to recent research, mid-October tends to be one of the most favorable windows for buyers—driven by more listings, fewer competing offers and sellers who are motivated. Here’s why this season lines up so well with your home-buying plans:  1. More homes to choose from. Inventory often ticks up in the fall as sellers who waited through the summer list their properties. With fewer buyers actively shopping, you’re less likely to get caught in bidding wars.2. Price flexibility & incentives. Data shows homes may drop around 3.4 % below their seasonal peaks in early October, giving buyers potential savings. Sellers may also be more open to covering closing costs...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
It can feel like a marathon to sell your house. Your goal is to reach the finish line as soon as possible while achieving the best possible result. How do you differentiate your property in a crowded market? The solution isn't usually a costly, extensive makeover. Rather, focused, intelligent updates can have a significant impact.Let's look at five smart home upgrades in this post that will pay for itself and transform your "For Sale" sign to "Sold" in quick succession.     Making Your First Impression Memorable by Improving Your Curb AppealThe exterior of your house is the first thing prospective buyers see. The mood of their entire stay is established by this first impression, also referred to as curb appeal. A well-kept interior is suggested by a pleasant appearance. Let's start wit...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
 If you’ve been wondering whether the housing market in New Castle County is about to collapse, the latest from Keeping Current Matters suggests that a crash is unlikely — and that’s good news for everyone from buyers and sellers to investors.  For BuyersWhile it might feel like we’re still coming down from the “red-hot” market of 2020-22, expert projections show home prices nationally are expected to continue rising — not falling.  Specifically, forecasts point to roughly 2-3.5% annual appreciation over the next five years, which is slightly below the 25-year average of 4-5% annually.  What that means locally: purchasing a home in Bear, Hockessin, Newark or Middletown still comes with built-in upside potential. For buyers, this is an opportunity to invest in a stable market rather than...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
What Homebuilders, Investors & Homeowners Need to KnowIf you’re planning to build or significantly renovate a home in New Castle County, DE, understanding construction financing is essential. Unlike standard mortgages, construction loans operate on a draw-system and require detailed plans, phased inspections, and a final conversion to permanent financing. What Makes Construction Financing Different?Unlike a traditional mortgage based on the existing home, construction financing bases the loan on an “as-complete” appraisal – meaning the value of your property is projected as if the build or renovation is fully done. Lenders release funds in stages via draws tied to construction milestones (foundation, framing, systems, finishes). During construction, borrowers often make interest-only pa...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
 Getting a home inspection report in Delaware doesn’t have to be scary. With the right approach — and a strong local REALTOR® by your side — you can turn that report into an opportunity to negotiate smartly and protect your investment.  Know What Delaware Inspectors Often Flag Foundation & structural movement: Clay‑rich soils inland and moisture shifts can cause wall cracks or misaligned doors/windows.  Roof, attic, and moisture problems: Especially in coastal or humid zones, leaks, flashings, and ventilation issues are common.  HVAC, plumbing, electrical wear: Systems may age faster in Delaware’s seasonal extremes. Radon & moisture intrusion: Basements or crawlspaces can accumulate water or radon gas — a concern under Delaware’s building context.  Knowing these patterns will help you a...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
Although some buyers might experience impacts, the Federal Reserve's rate drop did not immediately result in reduced mortgage rates. Are you one of those?On September 17, the Federal Reserve made its first rate decrease of the year, lowering its short-term interest rate by a quarter point. Despite a recent trend of declining mortgage rates, some homebuyers might have anticipated more significant reductions. According to Freddie Mac, the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 6.26% during the week of the Fed announcement. This indicates that mortgage rates remain higher than their average of 6.09% from a year ago. Why?How Rate Cuts Shape Mortgage CostsThe interest rate that banks lend and borrow from one another, not the rate that customers pay, is reflected in the federal funds rate. Trea...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
It's a fact - it is simply more difficult to sell a home that smells or appears to have been occupied by pets.De-pet your home before listing it and maintain it that way during the selling process to prevent that from occurring to you. Here's how.#1 Steam Clean The first task is to maintain the soft surfaces in your home. They are the best at retaining hair and scents.According to professionals, this covers everything from draperies to upholstered furniture, carpets, and rugs. Pets can leave oils, scents, and fur on curtains when they rub against them. Get curtains cleaned by a professional.  #2 Keep Your Pet CleanBefore listing your home, get your pet groomed by a professional. Although you can do it yourself, a professional can remove more hair and dander than you can, and it's better...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
As summer winds down and families shift back into the school-year routine, many buyers press pause on their house hunt. But if you’re still looking for your next home, late summer may actually be one of the best times to make your move. Here are a few reasons why: 1. Less Competition from Other Buyers Many families try to move before the start of school, making spring and early summer the busiest times of year for homebuying. The throngs start to disperse by late August and early autumn. Less competition and a greater likelihood that your offer will stand out result from fewer purchasers.     2. Motivated Sellers Looking to Close Before Fall In order to avoid the sluggish fall and winter market, sellers who listed their properties earlier in the summer could be keen to close as soon as ...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
Upgrading your house is just another example of the balancing act that is life. Certain improvements, such as remodeling your kitchen or adding a bathroom, usually increase the value of your house. Others, such as investing in a pool, yield minimal financial returns.Naturally, having a home is about more than just accumulating riches; it's also about creating memories and living well, even if that means outshining your neighborhood or alienating potential purchasers. Enjoy if any of these six upgrades are something you can't resist! We will not pass judgment. However, enter with an open mind. Outdoor KitchenThe dream: You're the man, cleaning highball glasses, making margaritas, and grilling steaks all while staying in your opulent patio kitchen.The truth is that you probably won't util...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
When buying a home in Northern Delaware, one of the biggest decisions is whether to purchase a new construction home or a resale home. Each option offers unique benefits, and the best choice depends on your lifestyle, priorities, and long-term goals. Let’s break down the key differences to help you make the right move. CLICK FOR FREE GUIDE Why Choose a New Construction Home in Northern Delaware?Modern Features and CustomizationNew construction homes in communities like Middletown, Bear, and Newark often include open floor plans, energy-efficient appliances, and smart-home technology. Many builders let you customize flooring, cabinetry, and finishes—giving you a personalized, move-in-ready property.Energy Savings and Peace of MindBuying new means lower utility bills thanks to upgraded wi...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
Clutter isn’t just physical—it can weigh on your mental well‑being too. Clearing out the chaos helps restore both order and peace. Ready to reset? Here are nine concise, impactful steps to help you reclaim your space and ease your mind.1. Choose a High-Impact Starting PointPick one area you use daily—a desk, kitchen counter, or entryway. Tackling a well‑trafficked spot first gives you a visible win and momentum to move forward.  2. Set Small, Achievable GoalsBreak your task into bite‑sized segments—spend 15 or 30 minutes at a time. Tiny victories build confidence, and this “snowball” approach keeps overwhelm at bay.3. Use the Four-Box MethodGrab four containers labeled: Keep, Donate, Trash, and Maybe (or Repair). Having these clear categories streamlines decisions and keeps clutter from...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
Over the past week, mortgage rates have eased noticeably—offering renewed hope to homebuyers and shifting dynamics for sellers alike. As of August 7, the average 30-year fixed rate dropped to 6.63%, its lowest since April, while the 15-year rate dipped to 5.75%. Government back mortgages FHA, VA and USDA hovered around 6%. Buyer Perspective With that $2,500 monthly budget, buyers can now afford a loan of approximately $375,000, depending on variables like taxes and down payment. This improved purchasing power—even at a tighter budget—is a direct result of the recent rate drop.Buyers are: Locking in rates fast, keen to secure these more affordable terms. Exploring better neighborhoods or homes they previously considered out of reach. Considering ARMs, betting on future rate declines or p...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
One of the most wonderful life milestones should be purchasing your first home. Rather, a lot of first-time purchasers end up feeling anxious, perplexed, and making costly errors that could have been simply prevented. Getting pre-approved for a mortgage, passing inspections, and paying closing expenses are just a few of the numerous moving components involved in homebuying.Because they are unsure of what to anticipate, the majority of first-time purchasers make similar mistakes. These errors could delay your purchase, cost you thousands of dollars, or possibly losing you your dream house to another buyer. However, you may approach the process with confidence and make wise choices after you are aware of the typical hazards.Having said that, as a first-time home buyer, the following are t...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
 Considering your retirement housing? Many homeowners are unsure if it makes financial sense to sell their current house and exchange their low-interest mortgage for a new one given the escalating cost of property these days. GET YOUR FREE GUIDE TO DOWNSIZING 💡 Why Downsizing Appeals Leverage Your Home Equity: You can use the proceeds from the sale of a larger home to fund investments, retirement, or debt repayment. Reduced Living Expenses: Mortgage, property tax, insurance, utility, and maintenance expenditures are generally lower in smaller homes. Simplified Lifestyle: Downsizing can promote a more manageable, purposeful living, increase accessibility, and save maintenance costs.   ⚠️ What to Consider Before Trading a Low-Rate Mortgage Decrease in Low Interest Even for a lesser loan, ...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
 As home-buying specialists, we often hear clients say, “I’ll wait for the recession to hit—then I’ll strike.” But that timing strategy is often flawed. Here’s why:1. Recessions don’t guarantee big price dropsHistorically, nationwide recessions rarely trigger steep housing price declines. Some see only a modest dip,  but most recessions over the past 45 years still show price growth - depending on the region. (see chart below)  2. Interest rates and lending standards tightenWhile mortgage rates may eventually fall, banks often simultaneously raise credit thresholds during downturns. That means securing a loan can become more difficult—even for those with strong finances.3. Job and income instability loomRecessions bring heightened risk of layoffs and reduced income. Buying a home withou...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
Are you considering purchasing a home but unsure if this is the correct moment? Many are anticipating and speculating on the next move of the market. However, only the most astute purchasers are aware of this:The best point in time to buy in years may be this summer. Here are three main explanations. 1. You Have More Negotiating PowerThings are beginning to change after sellers had all the leverage for a number of years. Take a look at the graph below. It illustrates that there are currently more sellers than buyers in the market using data from Redfin:  Study the events that occurred from 2021 to about 2023. During that time, there were significantly more purchasers (the blue line) than available residences (the green line). That was the driving force behind the fierce bidding wars, fi...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
Before making these headache-inducing alterations to your house, give it some thought. It can be very expensive and time-consuming to upgrade your house. But occasionally, the benefits might be even bigger, boosting your property's worth and making your daily life better. However, some home improvements result in more hassle than benefit. For instance, indoor water features can be expensive to maintain over time, and most buyers are unlikely to prioritize them when you are trying to sell your house. Therefore, it's crucial to think about which  improvements are genuinely worthwhile in the long run and which ones require too much upkeep. These seven home improvements, according to experts, aren't worth the additional effort.   Aquariums Regular maintenance is necessary for fish tank mod...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
Downsizing may seem like a better option as we get older. Large, multi-room homes that require a lot of maintenance might not be as useful as they formerly were.Downsizing gives you a new beginning and the chance to simplify your life while also lessening the upkeep and expense strain. Moving from a larger home to a smaller one, however, can be a daunting task. For seven doable strategies to help you handle this change with ease and as little stress as possible, continue reading.1. Evaluate Your RequirementsAssessing your unique needs is crucial to ensuring a smooth transfer, as downsizing is a significant decision. Start by taking preferences for location, mobility, accessibility, and health into account. Establish Your Space Needs: Ascertain how many rooms you will actually require. C...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
In today's dynamic housing market, many potential buyers are contemplating whether to purchase a home now or wait for interest rates to decrease. While the allure of lower rates is understandable, several compelling reasons suggest that buying now could be a more advantageous decision. 🔑 Key Reasons to Buy Now1. Home Prices Are Likely to Rise Even with higher interest rates, home prices have continued to climb. In April 2025, prices increased by 1.4% nationally, despite a record $700 billion in listings. Waiting for rates to drop could mean facing higher home prices, potentially offsetting any savings from lower interest rates. 2. Less Competition in the Current Market Higher mortgage rates have led to decreased buyer demand, resulting in increased inventory and longer listing times. Th...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
  Welcome to National Home Ownership Month. When you're looking through listings, calculating your finances, and questioning if you'll ever have "enough" saved to buy your first house, it can feel daunting. The good news is that most first-time purchasers are far closer than they realize. Many of them also regret not beginning the procedure sooner.     Here are some things new homeowners frequently say they wish they had known sooner if you're still undecided: 1. There's No Need for a 20% Down PaymentThe idea that you must save 20% of the home's cost before you can purchase is one of the most widespread misconceptions. That is just untrue. Numerous lending schemes permit significantly smaller down payments; some as low as 3% and, in some circumstances, 0% down for eligible buyers. 2. A ...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
Perhaps you've heard that there are more houses for sale than ever before. Additionally, it may cause you to wonder if another home market meltdown is about to occur.However, the facts show that's just not the case. More inventory is often a good thing. In actuality, it indicates that the market is stabilizing and improving.The Inventory Enigma: Understanding Current Trends and ChallengesThe white line in the graph below represents inventory, which recently reached its highest level since 2020, according to the most recent statistics from Realtor.com.However, you must also acknowledge that inventory levels have yet to restore to their pre-pandemic levels (shown in gray):  This indicates that more houses are available for purchase now than there have been in a long time.The amount of hom...
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