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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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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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New Castle County, DE Real Estate News

By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
    Buyers still considering purchasing a home in 2024 should not worry! A new analysis from Realtor.com® indicates that the first week of October appears to be the greatest time to buy this year. According to Realtor.com's sixth annual Best Time to Buy report, the hottest week for home buying in 2024 will be from September 29 to October 5. This prediction is based on an analysis of several important metrics, including listing prices, inventory levels, new or "fresh" listings, time on market, demand from homebuyers (as measured by Realtor.com listing views), and price reductions.     In comparison to the summer's peak median cost home, purchasers might save over $14,000, according to the research, and there could be up to 37% more inventory available than there was at the beginning of t...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
  Finding your dream house may be an exhilarating as well as an intimidating process. While it's thrilling to think about moving to the ideal location to fulfill your aspirations and make memories, the process may also be stressful and difficult. However, you may ensure a seamless and pleasurable house search experience by being well-prepared and taking the appropriate approach. Here are some pointers to assist you locate your dream house (mostly) stress-free. 1. Decide on Your Needs and Wants Spend some time defining your exact criteria for a home before you begin viewing properties. Think about the features that are most important to you, as well as aspects like size, style, location, and amenities. Consider your current way of life and how it might evolve in the future. Does your fam...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
When buying your first property, you may encounter unfamiliar terminology and circumstances. While you may have a rough understanding of what an inspection is, you may be unsure of why you need one or how they differ from appraisals. To make things easy, here's an explanation of each one and what it means for you as a buyer.  Home InspectionOnce you've agreed to buy a home, getting an inspection is an important step in the process. An inspection is crucial for assessing the safety and overall condition of a house before making a significant (usually your largest) purchase. A recent Realtor.com post explains:“A home inspection is something that protects your financial interest in what will likely be the largest purchase you make in your life—one in which you need as much information as p...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
It is likely that you are considering a number of factors when determining if you are prepared to purchase a home. You're considering your financial situation as well as the current state of mortgage rates, house prices, and the number of available properties. You're also trying to balance how each of those factors will affect the decision you choose.Although the state of the housing market undoubtedly influences your choice, your financial situation and personal circumstances also contribute. According to a NerdWallet article:“Housing market trends give important context. But whether this is a good time to buy a house also depends on your financial situation, life goals and readiness to become a homeowner.”Concentrate on the things you can control rather than trying to time the market....
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
There is a shift occurring in the housing market. At the same time that the number of homes for sale is increasing, moderate buyer activity is being caused by higher mortgage rates.Furthermore, you might not be aware of that if you aren't working with an agent. This is the drawback. You cannot modify your expectations or plan to fit the current market if you lack knowledge. And that can result in several expensive errors.Here are a few of the more typical ones, along with tips from an agent to help you steer clear of them when you sell.  1. Pricing Your House Over Market ValueMany sellers set their asking prices excessively high, which is why there is an increase in homes with price reductions today. Unrealistic pricing will turn off potential buyers, produce an appraisal difficulty, or...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
When the time comes to move, making decisions about your home can be very important. Is it better to rent it out to generate long-term wealth or sell it and take the proceeds for your next trip?Many homeowners ask this question, and the response isn't always clear-cut. There are many factors to take into account, whether you're interested in the possible revenue from renting or concerned about the obligations of being a landlord.Let's go over some important questions to ask in order to help you decide which course of action is best for you.  The Rental Test: Is Your Home Suitable for Renting?Your current residence might not be suitable for rental purposes, even if you have aspirations of becoming a landlord. Perhaps the neighborhood isn't ideal for rentals, you're moving far away, makin...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
Relocating to your ideal house can be challenging. It may seem like you've lost your mind in a sea of bubble wrap as you unpack, clean, and search for that stray roll of toilet paper.For this reason, I wanted to give you a list of five easy things to do in your first month of moving into your new house. Although these chores might seem unimportant, they will actually improve your quality of sleep at night and help your new place feel more like your home than just a place to live. We were exhausted, overwhelmed, and unable to recall where we had put our 10-month-old son's sippy cups when we moved into our dream home. In addition, we didn't know where to start! We cleaned and unpacked, of course, but what comes next?This short list of tasks guides you through each one and explains why it ...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
Homeowners with pools frequently ask real estate agents how much they can add to the sale price and whether or not the costs of installing a pool can be covered by the proceeds from the sale of their property.In general, the answers are not what sellers want to hear, but they do depend on a number of factors, which we will address here. For buyers, though, they might be good news.  This is due to the fact that pools do not increase in value like homes do. Similar to a car, a pool loses value after it is used. If it were to be sold in a real estate transaction, a pool older than ten years would be nearly worthless.There are, of course, exceptions to this broad principle. Ten years later, the value of a well-built concrete pool made of premium materials in an upscale home that has been we...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
You're probably hearing a lot about mortgage rates right now. You may even see headlines discussing the recent Federal Reserve (Fed) meeting and what it means for interest rates. However, despite what the headlines may suggest, the Fed does not set mortgage rates.The truth is that a variety of factors influence mortgage rates, including geopolitical uncertainty, inflation, and the economy. It's difficult to predict when all of those elements will align enough for interest rates to fall.As a result, attempting to time the market is rarely worthwhile. There is simply too much going on that you have no control over. The best thing you can do is manage the variables that are under your control.And when it comes to prices, here's what you can do to make your relocation ambitions a reality.  ...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
For sellers, who continue to enjoy quick sales and bidding wars that are pushing up prices nationwide, the housing market is still hot. Even if it's the house of their dreams, there are still a lot of warning signs that could discourage buyers from making a purchase, regardless of how strong the market is.These are the worst offenders on the list so you can address serious issues in your house that could cause problems when it comes time to sell.1. Outdated HomesA fixer-upper may be welcomed by some buyers, but a major remodeling project is enough to turn off some buyers.Almost 2/3 of buyers stated they would postpone purchasing a home if it required renovation. If your house is dilapidated or has significant damage, potential buyers might be put off.According to Self Financial, the kit...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
To improve curb appeal, simply design a welcoming and eye-catching exterior for the home. Here are 10 curb appeal ideas and helpful tips that fit your budget, ranging from easy do-it-yourself projects to some requiring professional contractors. With the aid of these techniques, you can turn any property into the ideal residence for a buyer.   1. Repaint The Front DoorRepainting your front door to add a pop of color that draws attention from onlookers is one of the most cost-effective curb appeal ideas. Painting the window frames again can give them a fresher, cleaner look that complements a more polished exterior. (Studies show that black doors can bring $6000 more in value.) 2. New House NumbersNew house numbers are a great and reasonably priced way to improve the curb appeal of your h...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
 The process of purchasing a home may seem overwhelming, especially if you're a first-time home buyer with no prior real estate experience. It's simple to feel overburdened by the amount of money needed for down payments, credit scores, interest rates, fixed- and adjustable-rate mortgages, property taxes, and closing costs. The stakes are really high when buying a first home!Nevertheless, knowing the basics of home buying beforehand will make navigating the real estate market easier for you. Now let's start discussing some important information for first-time home buyers!How can one purchase a home? To make your first home purchase, follow these guidelines.   Save Your MoneyStart saving a down payment, closing costs and moving expensesOne of the most crucial stages in making your first ...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
  In the current housing market, the quantity of properties available for purchase is crucial. And one of your biggest advantages right now, if you're debating whether or not to list your house, is the limited supply of homes available. This is because, in a low- inventory situation—especially if it's priced appropriately—your house will stand out more. However, there are more houses available for purchase. Recent data from Realtor.com indicates that the number of new listings—homeowners who have recently listed their property for sale—is increasing (see graph below):     Compared to the same period last year, this graph indicates that more homeowners are posting sale signs in their yards. According to Realtor.com: “. . . sellers turned out in higher numbers this March as newly listed h...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
You never think it will happen to you, but sometimes you have a listing or a home that just won’t sell. Or, your seller keeps asking, “Why is my house not selling?” and you want to share the reasons. Don’t worry. It happens to the best agents and great homes! The good thing is that there are many reasons why a house isn’t selling, and it isn’t always just an issue of price. So before you panic and massively reduce the price, read on to learn about some other challenges you may be facing with some easy fixes.1. Home FeaturesAccording to studies, about 60% of US owner-occupied homes were constructed prior to 1980. In certain states the average age of homes is even higher. Many of these older homes have features—like small bedrooms, no main bathroom, low ceilings, and one-car garages (that...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
Recent data from Fannie Mae reveals that nearly 25% of home buyers and sellers believe that home prices will decrease. If you find yourself among those concerned about this possibility, fear not! Let me shed some light on the situation.Much of this apprehension likely stems from the doom and gloom portrayed in the media and online. But here's the scoop - bad news sells. So, what you're consuming may not be the whole enchilada. You might just be getting the sensationalized version.As Jay Thompson, a Real Estate Industry Consultant, aptly puts it:“Housing market headlines are everywhere. Many are quite sensational, ending with exclamation points or predicting impending doom for the industry. Clickbait, the sensationalizing of headlines and content, has been an issue since the dawn of the ...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
Numerous factors can cause property values to fluctuate, so it's critical for homeowners to be aware of those that could lower their home's value. While some of these factors—like interest rates, the state of the economy, and market conditions—are beyond your control, others are largely under your control. A home's property value can be adversely affected by certain projects, or lack thereof, ranging from ugly renovations to careless home maintenance. Knowing what depresses property value will help you safeguard your house and maximize your return on investment when the time comes to sell.   1) Home improvement projects done poorlyIn addition to making their space more comfortable and enjoyable, many homeowners undertake home improvement projects in an effort to increase the value of th...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
In the current housing market, the quantity of properties available for purchase is crucial. And one of your biggest advantages right now, if you're debating whether or not to list your house, is the limited supply of homes available. This is because, in a low- inventory situation—especially if it's priced appropriately—your house will stand out more.However, there are more houses becoming available for purchase. Recent data from Realtor.com indicates that the number of new listings—homeowners who have recently listed their property for sale—is increasing (see graph below):  This graph shows more homeowners are putting that sale sign up in their yards compared to the same time last year. As Realtor.com says:“. . . sellers turned out in higher numbers this March as newly listed homes wer...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
If you're thinking about moving, you might be considering if it would be wise to hold off on selling until mortgage rates drop. Here are some details that might assist you in finding the answer to that difficult question.There is a well-established correlation between mortgage rates and buyer demand in the housing market. Higher prices are usually accompanied by decreased buyer demand. This is due to the fact that some prospective homeowners may be reluctant to take on a higher mortgage rate on a new property. They therefore make the decision to postpone their plans and wait it out.CLICK FOR YOUR FREE GUIDECLICK FOR YOUR FREE GUIDE However, things shift when interest rates begin to decline. Demand shifts from low or weak to high or robust. This is due to the fact that many of the purcha...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
This week saw a spike in mortgage rates, which should worry buyers in the midst of the competitive spring real estate market.According to Freddie Mac, the average rate on a 30-year fixed home loan increased from 6.82% to 6.88% during the week that ended on April 11.“Mortgage rates have been drifting higher for most of the year due to sustained inflation and the reevaluation of the Federal Reserve’s monetary policy path,” Sam Khater, Freddie Mac’s chief economist, said in a statement.For the week ending April 6, home sellers were pushing ahead despite the ongoing rocky path of mortgage rates.According to Realtor.com® economist Jiaya Xu's most recent analysis, "many sellers are actively listing their homes this spring, with the number of newly listed homes up by 30.1% from a year ago."In ...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
Your house has to be different from the others when it is for sale. Additionally, some features, like immaculate hardwood floors or exquisitely designed open kitchens, are excellent at attracting attention to listings. However, what happens if you are unable to finance renovations, even though some items are in grave disrepair?In order to attract buyers, some sellers might decide to give their house an allowance, or discount. In this case, the seller would consent to bear the cost of fixing anything the buyer deems to be defective. The allowance could be included in the buyer's offer or an request for repairs addendum following the home inspection.  If the home purchase will be secured by a loan, the buyer will need to contact the lender in order to make sure that the allowance will not...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
Are you considering selling your home this year? If so, this could be the ideal moment to take action. Experts predict that the ideal week to list your home is quickly approaching.   The best week to list your home this year is April 14–20, according to a recent Realtor.com study that examined housing market trends over the previous few years (2020 was an anomaly).“Every year, one week stands out from the rest as that perfect stretch of time when it’s great to be a home seller. This year, the week of April 14–20 is the best time to sell—that is, if sellers want to see lots of interest in their homes, sell quickly, and pocket some extra cash, according to Realtor.com® data."Here's why you should care about this. This might be the peak sweet spot, but the spring market is always a great t...
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