• 4 Best Things to Do in Delaware this Fall,Zachary Foust

    4 Best Things to Do in Delaware this Fall

    Unpopular and unbiased opinion: Fall is the best time to visit Delaware.  Greetings, Delawareans! Autumn is a beautiful time to visit the lovely towns of Delaware. They are in the middle of beautiful countryside and have a lot of fall foliage and activities.  Get ready as we list the best things to do in Delaware this fall. Here are our top four choices for people of all ages. Let’s dive in!   Killens Pond State Park is a great place to enjoy the outdoors. Image Source: Brian Wallace If you want to see one of the best views of fall foliage in Delaware, go to Killens Pond.  Killens Pond State Park has a lot of fun outdoor activities that are amazing for the whole family. Here, you can enjoy nature and the crisp fall air in its pure beauty. This state park has something for everyone. There are trails for walking and biking, several ball fields and courts for the athlete in you, and many things to do on the water. You can rent canoes or kayaks and paddle up the Murderkill River or around the 66-acre mill pond.  You can also explore the nearby Fork Branch Nature Preserve in Dover to see the red-shouldered hawk and the scarlet tanager, among other migratory and resident birds. Then, spend the rest of your afternoon fishing along the pond, which is home to largemouth bass, pickerel, catfish, carp, and other fish.   You can camp at Blackbird State Forest and sleep under the stars. Image Source: Only in Your State Blackbird State Forest is the most northern state forest in Delaware. But it has a lot of fun things to do outside.  You can have a real adventure on the weekend by staying at one of the five campsites in the forest. This will give you time to do all the things Blackbird has to offer.  This 6,000-acre forest has 40 miles of trails that people can walk, run, ride bikes on, and cross-country ski on in the winter. There is also a 2,200-foot paved trail that people in wheelchairs can use. You can also go hunting and fishing in the forest and go camping at Blackbird State Forest this fall to enjoy the great outdoors.   Kent County has some of the best wines. Image Source: Pinterest To all the wine lovers out there! Fall is a great time to spend the day trying different wines.  There are several family-owned wineries in Delaware that you’ll surely love. You can taste the best wines in Kent County and tour these exciting and beautiful vineyards and wineries.  You can start your day at Harvest Ridge Winery in Marydel, which has a variety of unique wines with exciting smells. Next, go to Pizzadili Vineyard in Felton. They use more than 12 different kinds of grapes to make a wide range of tasty wines, from sweet white wines to dry, oaky reds. Make sure to have a driver with you to go home safely after all those wine tastings.    Take a drive through the beautiful Amish countryside. Image Source: Only in Your State It's always nice to drive through the beautiful Amish countryside. But in the fall, when the leaves are changing and the sun is shining golden, the rolling hills and stretches of farmland in Kent County are straight-up gorgeous.  The Amish community in Delaware is just west of Dover, and there are many ways to tour and see the area. There are many Amish country stores where you can buy fresh baked goods, fresh fruits and vegetables, handcrafted furniture, and more.  You can also find locally made Amish goods at Spence's Bazaar & Flea Market and Byler's Store (with locations in Dover and Harrington). If you'd rather spend more time outside, the Amish countryside has a lot of great bike trails that go all over the area.   Final Thoughts And that’s the 4 best things you can do in Delaware this fall. They are all so good that you’ll realize you want to live here for good. Let’s make that happen! We at Loft Realty can help you buy that Delaware dream home you love. Don’t hesitate to contact us today, and let’s discuss it!

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  • Top Halloween Family Fun Activities With Your Kids in Delaware,Zachary Foust

    Top Halloween Family Fun Activities With Your Kids in Delaware

    Hello to all the parents out there! Halloween season is all around! Maybe your kids are already clamoring for Halloween family fun. Yet, they’re too young for haunted houses and scary places.  You know what? There is no wrong way to celebrate Halloween, whether you like it for the tricks, the treats, or because it is scary or funny. You and your family are sure to have a good time as long as you are kind, welcoming, and safe.  So, we've put together a list of family-friendly Halloween activities to help you prepare for the scary season. Warning: the side effects include lots of time spent together, having fun, and getting your hands dirty. Let’s get into it!   1. Sculpt and Carve Pumpkins Image Source: Cavan Images The first thing on our list of fun Halloween things to do is, of course, carving pumpkins! People have been sculpting pumpkins for a long time. If your kids are younger than 9, you or any adult should do the knife work yourself. But don't worry, they can still take part in everything!  Let them think of the idea and tell you what to do so you can make their dreams come true. After you've carved the pumpkin, let your younger kids decorate it with paint, glitter, markers, or anything else they want.  Even if your kids are over 9, you should still oversee them as they carve and be ready to help if needed. Pumpkins are very firm!    2. Make a Haunted House out of Boxes Image Source: Home With Lindsay  Get creative! Use those boxes you get in the mail as the foundation for your haunted house. If you don't have any boxes, you can use some old newspapers or Styrofoam cups to make a haunted house. Then, scatter some webs over the top to make it look like it's haunted. Add some little red poster paints and green lightbulbs for an extra spooky feel. Kids will love decorating them with you!    3. Decorate your own Costume Image Source: Someday I’ll Learn. If you think you need to purchase expensive costumes for Halloween, you’re wrong. All you need is a little imagination. When you make your own costume for Halloween, it's so much more fun. Parents are proud of it, and kids feel they have much more control over how it looks. Everyone wins!  Even if you don't think you're the most crafty parent, you should be able to make something fun for your child and yourself with enough time and suitable materials. So don't be afraid to get creative!    4. Make some spooky cupcakes Image Source: Pinterest Ah, we love the spicy and sweet tastes of fall, like pumpkin, cinnamon, chai, apple, and so many more. But mixing food with fun is one of the most fun things about cooking in the fall, especially for kids. Check out online recipes with Halloween-themed cooking and baking, and make mummy pesto pizzas or scary cupcakes for your kids!  Or, try one of the more traditional fall recipes and learn how to make caramel apples online with your kids. No matter what you choose, your little chef will have a great time, and y’all enjoy it.   5. Have a Halloween Movie Night Image Source: Raising Ed Monton. Scary movies might not be suitable for them, depending on how old your kids are and what they like. But there are a lot of good Halloween movies that kids of all ages can watch and enjoy.  Try classics like Charlie Brown, It's the Great Pumpkin, and Casper for younger kids. Horror movies like Monster House, Hocus Pocus, and The Nightmare Before Christmas are probably more fun for older kids. and young adults.   Final Thoughts And that’s it! We hope you found these ideas helpful. Halloween should not be expensive, and it can be fun and not scary at all by following these tips. And you might even get a little bit of inspiration for your next Halloween project!

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  • 5 Reasons Why Owning a Home is Better than Renting,Zachary Foust

    5 Reasons Why Owning a Home is Better than Renting

    Source: Bedtime Stories Part 1 Should you buy a house or rent one? Everyone faces this question at some point in their lives. Even a lifelong renter who loves living in an apartment probably doubts whether it would be better to buy a home or keep renting. Let’s answer that question once and for all. Here are five reasons why owning a home is better than renting.   1. You build equity when you buy a home.  This. This is the one. In fact, you can stop reading the other four reasons. It's common knowledge that building equity is one of the leading reasons you want to own a home. It’s true; as you live in your house, its value increases more than what you owe. This happens because you pay the mortgage balance, and the property value increases. You’re just throwing your money out of the window when you rent. Month after month, the money you give will not come back to you. Your landlord takes it all.But when you buy a home, the money you put in monthly will be your future net worth. No matter where you are in the world, you have a home that you can go “home” to.  In other words, when you rent, you’re just paying the landlord’s mortgage. Do you want to do that for life? Might as well just put your money into your own equity and net worth, right?    2. You save money in the long run.  Yes. Owning will be a lot cheaper in the long run than renting.  If you find a good deal on a home and get a 30-year mortgage, the payments can be surprisingly low compared to what you would pay to rent a similar home. Most of the time, your taxes and insurance will be paid all at once, so you won't notice the difference. You might wonder why everyone doesn't buy houses. It’s all because of credit scores. Your credit has to be pretty good for a bank to lend you the amount of money you need to buy a house. Also, most traditional loans require a 20% down payment, and people don't always have that much cash lying around.  That’s why they choose to rent for immediate living rather than saving money in the long run. You choose.    3. Owning makes you feel stable. Nothing beats this one. When you own your own home, you have more stability in your life. Most renters know that it's not a long-term deal and that they might have to move anytime.  Your rental agreement says everything you need to know about your right to live in a place you rent. If your landlord sells your home to someone else or makes you move, you have no choice but to move. It’s like you’re at the mercy of your landlord rather than having peace of mind over your property.    4. You have more control.  There is no landlord. You own your home.  Your lender has a lien on the deed to your home, but as long as you make your payments on time, you are the legal owner of your home and have full rights to it. Nobody can tell you what you can and can't do in your home; hence, you have more freedom to do what you want. The rent also can't go up. Once you agree to the terms with your bank, the rate and payment won't change for the life of the loan. Taxes and insurance are the only things that can change. It’s your home; you can pick your own colors and layout and do what you want with your home.    5. Your home appreciates in value.  One of the finest investments is, and always will be real estate. There is only so much space on Earth, and nobody can make more of it. Real estate appreciates steadily over time, and any decline in value is probably temporary. Simply by your family living and sleeping in your house, you let your home make money for you. This is something you can't do with renting. Home values will likely rise once you pay down your loan, and most homes are worth more after 5-7 years. If you decide to sell, you can say you lived in a great house for less than renting while building equity and selling it for a profit. Win-win!    Final Thoughts We recommend buying a house. We see a house as a way to develop equity for the future. If you owned a house, you would lose less money to interest than if you rented for a lifetime. Don’t pay for your landlord’s mortgage. Pay for your own home and build equity.  Let’s make that happen. We at Loft Realty are helping many people achieve this goal of owning a Delaware home, and we can help you too. Give us a call or email, and we’re happy to talk to you.

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  • 5 Best Pumpkin Food and Drinks in Delaware,Zachary Foust

    5 Best Pumpkin Food and Drinks in Delaware

    Hey there! Halloween is just around the corner.  And that also means… it’s time for P-U-M-P-K-I-N-S!  The variety of pumpkin-inspired goodies found all around the state of Delaware in the fall is one of the most extraordinary things about visiting Delaware in the fall. If you don't like pumpkin, there are lots of other delicious autumnal snacks you may try.  But maybe you’re one of those who travel throughout the state from top to bottom, trying every kind of pumpkin-flavored food and drink. And that includes the world-famous pumpkin spice latte, pumpkin pie, and pumpkin beer. Well, you’re going to love this list.  So, let’s dive in and talk about the 5 best pumpkin food and drinks you can find in Delaware.    Dolce Bakery & Coffee Shop Image Source: Visit Southern Delaware Number 1. Dolce’s Bakery & Coffee Shop. No contest. The Best.  If you have time to spare, pay a visit to the Dolce Bakery and Coffee Shop in Milford. And oh, you won’t be disappointed.  You could leave with a traditionally autumnal beverage with their signature pumpkin spice latte in your hands. Once you’ve tasted that, you’ll never be the same.  Still, you could also go with pumpkin rolls, cheesecakes, bars, cookies, etc. You get the idea.  In other words, they are the best. Just order one of these, and you’ll know why we love it.    Bing’s Bakery Image Source: Only In Your State Next up is one of the legends, the few bakeries that stood the test of time and the first.  Bing's Bakery, which has been in business in Delaware since 1871, is the state's oldest bakery. If you're looking for a reason to visit Newark, this is it; you'll find every variety of pie imaginable there, including pumpkins.  When you taste one of these, you’ll take in a lot of history. It’s that good.    Crooked Hammock Brewery Image Source: Cape Gazette So much for the bakeries. Let’s show some love to the beer lovers (yeah!)  At the Crooked Hammock Brewery in Lewes, you can have the best of both worlds with Jav-O-Lantern beer, a smoked pumpkin coffee brew with hints of sweet smoke, spice, and roasted coffee. How awesome is that! It’s coffee-pumpkin-beer goodness. What more could you ask for?   Dog FishHead Image Source: The Full Pint And, of course, this list won't be legit if we don’t mention the legendary Punkin Ale.  The Punkin Ale, brewed only from August through November by Delaware's most well-known brewery, Dog FishHead, located in Milton, is an all-time favorite. Pumpkin flesh, brown sugar, and several spices are brewed together. It’s to create this robust brown ale that will satisfy every beer and pumpkin cravings you have.  Don’t let this year pass you by without checking Punkin Ale out. You might as well make this an annual tradition.    House of Coffi Image Source: Visit Delaware Villages And, closing off our list is the best independent cafe in all of Delaware.  House of Coffi in Dover, Delaware, lives up to its name by stocking every kind of coffee imaginable, which is particularly convenient now that fall has arrived. You'll have a hard time picking between the pumpkin spice latte, the apple pie latte, the maple syrup sweet cream latte, the cinnamon roll latte, and a few more lattes on their menu board.  But don’t overthink it, anything you choose, you’ll love it a-latte. (Sorry, I just had to say it, I think it’s clever)   Final Thoughts And that’s it! The best pumpkin food and drinks in Delaware today. If you want to grab these drinks every day, it’s best if you buy a home here. And now is the best time to buy! Let’s talk about it and get that dream Delaware home you love.

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  • Marry the House, Date the Rate: Not Good Advice. Here’s why.,Zachary Foust

    Marry the House, Date the Rate: Not Good Advice. Here’s why.

    Source:https://www.youtube.com/shorts/Aq-fb-LPbpM The phrase "Marry the House, Date the Rate" has been thrown around recently in social media and real estate circles. What does this mean? Let’s talk about it, and tell you that it could be bad advice.  What exactly does “Marry the House, Date the Rate” mean?  “Marry the House, Date the Rate” means that if you find a house you love and can afford, you shouldn't let the current interest rates stop you from buying it. Instead, you should use the rates to motivate you to purchase the home.  Can you refinance later? Absolutely. Here’s an example: A property initially purchased for $500,000 and has seen an increase of 10% in the last two years is now worth $625,000. Because of the present interest rates, you may be paying an extra $12,000 in interest. Still, you could be getting $75,000 in appreciation.   Most real estate agents say you should marry the home and date the rate. Every cycle has its own unique opportunities. You can buy a home at an affordable price, enjoy the rising value for a while, and then refinance your mortgage debt later. It's almost too good to be true. Right?   When “Date The Rate” Becomes Bad Advice Here’s the dilemma.  Does this mean I could take on a mortgage I can’t afford and hope that one day I’ll be able to refinance it at a lower value? No!  Like, imagine dating someone. You wouldn't say, "Yeah, it sucks now, but it'll be better in the future."  That’s how ordinary people understand that statement. Without clarity, it could be misleading.    The Truth about Refinancing Here’s some light on refinancing. It is not recommended to have a mortgage for the long term. Most homeowners will rent their properties many times throughout their ownership. Because mortgage rates continue to decline, they find themselves in need of cash from their equity. There is no limit to how many times you can refinance your mortgage. But most mortgage lenders won't let you refinance again until you've made at least six mortgage payments. This is because mortgage servicers punish lenders when a loan is paid off early. A refinance will incur charges linked to closure.   So, should you follow this advice or not? Even though this statement is rather witty, bear in mind that you may be dating the interest rate for a more extended period than you would typically choose. There is no way to predict when mortgage rates will begin to level or gradually decrease.  We do not believe they will fall to the levels we have seen over the last several years. From our perspective, we will be very fortunate to see interest rates drop below 5% anytime shortly.  Having said that, if you did lock in a rate today and mortgage rates continue to rise, you'll be pleased you locked in your rate before it was too late.  If you want to discuss this matter further, don’t hesitate to contact us today. Because here at Loft Realty, we are the difference you deserve. 

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  • Top Halloween Experiences in Delaware That You Shouldn’t Miss Out,Zachary Foust

    Top Halloween Experiences in Delaware That You Shouldn’t Miss Out

    Spooky cemetery stories? Paranormal activities? Haunted houses and museum explorations? If you hear this often lately, you know Halloween is right around the corner. And, make no mistake, when it comes to Halloween fright, Delaware is hard to beat. You can enjoy the best pumpkin patches, haunted hayrides, and historical places that will give you chills. The more you experience these places, the more memorable your Halloween will be.  So, are you ready? Without further ado, today, we’ll share the best Halloween experiences you can have in Delaware. Let’s dive in!   1. Dark Dover Lantern Tours Image Source: Visit Delaware Let’s begin our journey to the dark in the capital of Delaware. The annual Dark Dover Lantern Tours is more of a tradition, and it's here where Halloween stories are kept alive. Grab your flashlight and join the First State Heritage Park's guided tours for a dark and creepy excursion through old streets and cemeteries with stories to tell.  Here, you’ll witness actual murder stories and meet personalities whose legends have impacted The Green terribly., I don’t know what will happen if this doesn't give you the chills.   2. Frightland Image Source: Frightland Any park with the word “fright” right on its name is confident it can deliver the scares. And Frightland is just that. Frightening.  Frightland is back for another season, with its own graveyard and zombie village. This famous Delaware horror attraction is in the hearts of Smyrna and Middletown locals. Frightland, located at 309 Port Penn Road in Middletown, has eight haunted horror attractions, including a two-mile Haunted Hayride, four indoor haunted homes, and more. Pro tip! After a spooky day at Frightland, head to Crooked Hammock Brewery Middletown for some beautiful eats and specialty brews. Yum!   3. Fort Delaware Paranormal Adventures Image Source: Only In Your State Have you ever experienced actual paranormal activity in your life? Or do you dream of using these paranormal apparatuses at least once? If you are, you should not miss the Fort Delaware Paranormal Adventures. Allow the Diamond State Ghost Investigators to guide you around this centuries-old military fort. And guess what? They let you use actual electromagnetic field detectors, data recorders, and temperature sensors to discover what could be hiding in the shadows. How awesome is that! Moreover, this ancient Civil War port defense post now houses a three-hour ghost investigation tour from October 1-23. Guests will be transported to the Fort by boat; tickets are $50 for those aged 13 and over.    4. New Castle’s Hauntings in History Image Source: Delaware Online Are you bold enough to delve into New Castle's dark past? Join the New Castle Historical Society to tour New Castle's eerie side. See how it takes you through shadowy streets and lanes to hear macabre tales of hauntings, burial traditions, crime, and punishment that span the town's almost 370-year history.  Walking tours begin in The Arsenal and include visiting the renowned Amstel House, still one of the most haunted places in Delaware. Here, you may see the fabled Lady in Blue, who is said to appear in an upstairs window clothed in a blue silk gown. You'll also walk cobblestone streets searching for more New Castle myths and mysterious tales. Along with the stories, there will be lots of New Castle history, such as mourning and burial traditions, murder cases, and early examples of death punishment. Adults will love it here if you want that first-hand dose of frightening tales that once belonged to the town's notorious past.   5. Rockwood Paranormal Investigation Tour Image Source: New Castle County Closing our list is some real paranormal stuff, which makes this one frightening.  The Rockwood Mansion was featured on the famous TV show "Ghost Hunters," and it is still one of Delaware's most haunted locations. This tour includes an in-depth investigation of what paranormal activity exists within the Rockwood Mansion utilizing advanced technology, and attendees must be able to climb many staircases.  Explore the house from the unfinished attic to the decaying cellar, passing through the beautifully polished living rooms. This is some hardcore exploration stuff, so it's best for 14-year-olds and older.   Final Thoughts Whew! We’re done! Now you have all the information you need to have a spooktacular time here in Delaware.  And if you want to make your visit even more memorable, why don’t you move in here permanently? We at Loft Realty can help you buy a home here. Just reach out to us today, and we’ll be happy to help.  If you love these posts, you’ll also love the best things to do in Kent County this Halloween. And if you are entering the real estate business, here are three things to know before flipping a house.

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  • 5 Cheapest Places to Live In Delaware,Zachary Foust

    5 Cheapest Places to Live In Delaware

    Are you on the lookout for the cheapest places to live in Delaware? We got you. Finding a property that matches your wants while not costing you a fortune can be difficult. In fact, the typical house value in Delaware is $258,300. When upkeep and mortgage payments are included, it can be challenging for many individuals like you to acquire and own a Delaware home. That's why we've produced a list of affordable cities in Delaware to assist you in your search. These locations are less expensive than the average, so you may get more value for your dollars. Let’s cut right to the chase and list down the five cheapest places to live in Delaware.    1. Dover Image Source: Flickr Surprisingly, the First State's capital remains one of the state's most cheap areas, with many individuals migrating to Delaware. Dover, one of the state's major cities, has a median house value of $173,800, much lower than the state's median home value. Home values have risen 5.8% in the previous year and are predicted to climb 2.3% in the coming year. This is lovely news for present homeowners who are seeing their home investment grow. It also sends a positive message to purchasers who may feel confident about purchasing property in Dover. Dover Air Force Base, Dover Downs, and the St. Jones River are all located within a few miles of the Atlantic shore. According to other surveys, Kent County, which includes Dover, is the most inexpensive in Delaware. The area has the lowest closing costs and mortgage rates of any Delaware county, and its citizens have median incomes comparable to the national average.   2. Camden Image Source: Pinterest Camden's typical house value is $194,000, which is lower than the national average. This, along with its slow but steady expansion, is a primary driver of its affordability and popularity among consumers. Home values climbed by 1.8% last year and will increase by 1.5% this year. The market saw a slight fall in 2021 but immediately recovered and resumed its rising trajectory. Camden's affordability is aided by a thriving economy and closeness to Dover, another relatively affordable city.   3. Pike Creek Image Source: Regency Centers Pike Creek is one of the cheapest locations to live in Delaware. It’s due to its low housing costs and a median income of roughly two-thirds of the national average. It is located directly west of Wilmington and between Baltimore and Philadelphia. The reduced living expenses and real estate purchase account for a significant portion of its affordability. The neighborhood has the state's lowest closing costs and mortgage rates and a vibrant housing market poised for expansion.   4. New Castle Even though much of New Castle is located along the Delaware River, the typical house value remains below the national average at $183,700. Home prices have fallen by 0.8% in the last year and are anticipated to fall by 0.3% this year. The decline isn't substantially lower than at its peak in 2021, and demand for houses in the area remains robust. From 2013 to 2021, the market saw rapid and consistent expansion. Homes are staying on the need for a bit longer than they did a year ago, which is excellent news for bargain-hunting buyers.   5. Wilmington There's a reason Wilmington real estate is selling at such a rapid pace. Because of its unique riverside position and affordability, it is a lovely area to reside. According to Zillow statistics from May, the typical price of properties listed here is $189,000, much less than the state's median home value. Rent and house costs per square foot are also lower than usual, contributing to a reduced overall cost of living. The value of homes has remained steady. They haven't experienced much gain, especially in this seller's market, but they haven't declined in the last year. Like many other markets, the housing market has not fully recovered from the 2020 meltdown. However, this has played in the buyer's favor.   Final Thoughts Delaware is one of the cheapest states to live in, and these five cities are among the most affordable. If you're looking for a low-budget area to live in Delaware, you could never go wrong with these five locations.  And what better way for you to buy your own home than through a real estate agent team that looks out for your needs? And that’s what we do at Loft Realty. If you want to get that dream Delaware home you love, contact us today, and we’d love to talk to you.  If you like this content, check out the best places to visit in Delaware this fall. Or, read about the best hiking and biking trails in Delaware this fall. 

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  • Best Things to Do in Sussex County This Halloween,Zachary Foust

    Best Things to Do in Sussex County This Halloween

    Hello Delawareans! So, what are the best Halloween activities in Sussex County, you ask? Well, we’ve prepared exactly what you're looking for.  Sussex County is maybe a little smaller than the others. However, it is jam-packed with Halloween festivities that you and your children will enjoy. You should enjoy these activities if you live nearby and are unaware of these locations. So, are you ready to be scared? Here are the best things to do in Sussex County this Halloween.   1. Halloween Weekend at Massey’s Landing Image Source: Massey’s Landing Let’s kick off this list by mentioning Long Beach’s most anticipated Halloween event at Millsboro. The s'mores gathering at 5 p.m. will kick off Halloween weekend at Massey's Landing. Then, it’s followed by a movie screening at 7 p.m. Saturday's activities include pumpkin painting, a pumpkin chunkin' event, a costume carnival and contest, and a Halloween can throw. It’s all family-friendly here, so make sure to not miss it!   2. Boos and Brews Image Source: Lewes Chamber Our next entry is Shipcarpenter St.’s Halloween vibes that will give you spooky fun. On October 29, you can attend the Lewes Historical Society's Boos and Brews, when ghosts awaken, and witches take flight. Enjoy nibbles from local restaurants and beverages from Delaware wineries and brewers.  Bring out your inner ghoul by dressing up in a Halloween costume from 7-10 p.m., but be warned: there may be a ghost or two roaming the historic grounds. Tickets are $75 per person, and all attendees must be at least 21 years old.   3. Wags, Witches, and Warlocks Image Source: BVSPCA You're mistaken if you think Bethany Beach is only for summer fun. On October 30th, Bethany Beach will hold the Wags, Witches, and Warlocks event from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m at the Garfield Parkway & Pennsylvania Ave. The Brandywine Valley SPCA will provide a parade, costume contest, and pet adoption station. Guests may bring their children for trick-or-treating, Halloween crafts, and face painting. How awesome is that?   4. The Cemetery House Image Source: Pinterest Now, let’s get onto the scary stuff. The Cemetery House, which has been open for 29 years, is one of the longest-running haunted homes on the Eastern Shore. Located at 205 W. 10th St., Laurel, this terrifying exhibit is available from October 15 to October 30. It incorporates ghouls, zombies, animals, and more to give tourists a genuine shock. To be sure, you can visit the event's Facebook page for further and up-to-date information on weather delays and closures.   5. Nightmare’s Haunted House Image Source: Hauntrave And closing off our list is probably the scariest (and kindest) of them all. Located at 10912 County Seat Hwy., Laurel, Nightmare's Haunted House, now in its 21st year of terror, is a charity that raises donations for local charities. This year's event promises fresh thrills as well as terrifying beasts. What’s even creepier is their attraction's Facebook page, where you can see a weekly collection of "victim" response photographs.    Final Thoughts And that rounds up our list of the best things to do in Sussex County this Halloween! Check out these locations if you live nearby and are unaware of these activities. Or, better yet, get a home here in Sussex County! We at Loft Realty would love to help you buy that dream Delaware home you love. Contact us today!  If you love this post, check out the best places to visit in Delaware this Fall. And if you are curious, you might want to know how millionaires make more money–by not paying rent. 

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  • Best Things To Do In Kent County this Halloween,Zachary Foust

    Best Things To Do In Kent County this Halloween

    So, you want to know the best things to do in Kent County for Halloween? You’re in luck. Because we know exactly what you’re looking for.  Kent County may be a little bit smaller than the others. But it’s jam-packed with Halloween events that you and your kids will love. If you live around here and don’t know about these places, you might want to get out there and enjoy these events.  So, let’s get into it and talk about the best things to do in Kent County for the upcoming Halloween. Are you ready to get spooked? Here we go!   Family Fun Halloween Carnival Image Source: Delaware Today The first is the Family Fun Halloween Carnival in Red Haven Lane at Dover. Bring your favorite costume to the Kent County Public Library for a family-friendly carnival! Here, you can play carnival games, construct Halloween-themed crafts, and participate in the costume promenade. You can also attend a strange magic performance on October 16 from 1:30-4:30 p.m. Don’t miss out on this one, or let your Halloween costumes accumulate dust and webs in your home.   Blue Earl’s Annual Hoppy Halloween Party Image Source: Blue Earl Brewing Our next stop is a tradition in Artisan Drive at Smyrna. On October 30, the Blue Earl Brewing Company will hold its sixth Hoppy Halloween Party, where attendees may eat, drink, and be scared. There will be a costume contest with awards for the funniest, scariest, and most unique costumes. This is the perfect time to show off your spooky costumes!   John Dickinson Plantation Image Source: Delaware News Now we get to the REAL creepy stuff. Did you know that the former founding father himself is claimed to haunt his own John Dickinson Plantation to this day? People have reported hearing the sound of a quill pen writing on parchment and seeing rumpled bed sheets that appeared to have been slept on. If you wish to see this paranormal activity for yourself, visit the website to book a tour, or just drive over Kitts Hummock Road at Dover and experience the chills in the flesh.    Dark Dover Lantern Tours Image Source: Delaware’s Quaint Villages Another spooky venture is Green Dover’s Dark Dover Lantern Tours. Don’t forget to grab your flashlight and join the First State Heritage Park's guided tours for a dark and creepy excursion through old streets and cemeteries with stories to tell. You’ll witness actual murder stories and meet personalities whose legends have impacted The Green terribly. How creepy is that? And imagine, you get to experience all this for just $15 per person. Pre-registration is essential and limited space, so make your reservation soon! Note that canceled tours due to poor weather won’t be rescheduled, so don’t miss it!    Fifer Orchards Fall Fun Fest Image Source: Delaware’s Quaint Villages To round off your Halloween celebrations, how about planning a day of challenging your family to a "Jurassic Farm" themed corn maze, an autumn amusement park, and apple cider doughnuts? That’s the Fifer Orchards Fall Fun Fest for you! This mix of cuisine, farm tours, and a corn maze on Allabands Mill Road in Wyoming focuses on Delaware’s luscious abundance during the fall season. Check out the Fifer’s Farm Store’s U-Pick Pumpkin and Apple Patch, U-Play area, and the Farm Store. There’s also Live Music, Tractor-Train Rides, Baby Farm Animals, and Face Painting on Saturdays. And if you’re worried about the cost, its admission is around $7.95-$9.95 per person, and you’ll really get a high value for your money.    Final Thoughts That rounds up our list of the best things to do in Kent County this Halloween. Did we miss anything? Let us know in the comments below! If you’re interested in picking pumpkins this Halloween, check out the top five Delaware farms to pick pumpkins and apples. Or, if you want to spend your Halloween hiking, you need to try the best hiking and biking trails in Delaware this fall. And what better way to enjoy these festivities than having your own home in Delaware! Loft Realty helped many locals get their dream homes in the Diamond State, and it’s time for you to have your own. Contact us today! 

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  • The Best Places to Visit In Delaware this Fall,Zachary Foust

    The Best Places to Visit In Delaware this Fall

    Hello there, my friend! If you're looking for fall activities to do in Delaware, we've got you covered. And you won't have to look far; there are lovely places to see the Delaware foliage throughout the season in all three counties.  There's a terrific mix of family fun activities and big child entertainment (including one just for the family dog), with many exploring the magnificent outdoors with bright orange leaves on the ground. One thing’s for sure, though. Whatever you do on your fall vacation to Delaware, you'll build memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you hike and cycle around the state or seek out as many chances to get terrified silly as possible, none can beat the beauty of the fall season here.  Let’s check out the best places to visit in Delaware this fall. You’ll be blown away by the beauty of these spots in the fall season. So, let’s jump right in!   1. Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge Image Source: Hey, East Coast What you’re looking at is not a painting; it’s an actual photo of Bombay Hook's appearance during the fall season. That bright orange leaves undoubtedly make your heart skip a beat in awe. And top it all with the migratory birds that fly over the wetlands. Indeed a sight to behold.  The Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge near Smyrna protects one of the mid-Atlantic region's most excellent surviving stretches of tidal salt marsh. It's a popular place for bird viewing all year, but it's trendy in fall for leaf peeping.    2. Killens Pond State Park Image Source: Only In Your State Because of the water park, this Dover location is crowded throughout the year. Still, once October arrives, Killens Pond State Park is a delightful walk with the most brilliantly colored trees. The real highlight here, my friend, is the 66-acre pond. That mixture of green and yellow colors can never be seen elsewhere, and you can fill your phone with wallpapers from the pictures of this pond. You may also take a wagon ride around the park's farms and woodlands for 40 minutes. You’ll keep coming back here every autumn once you see how good this park looks during the fall.   3. Wilmington and West Railroad Image Source: Only In Your State Just look at that snapshot; it’s like a scene straight out of a movie!  The Wilmington and Western Railroad takes you on steam- and diesel-powered tourist trains through some of Delaware's most beautiful countryside, including Mt. Cuba's botanical garden. The fall foliage view is phenomenal; there’s nothing like it. The picture makes you think, “I want to live here for good.” It’s that good, my friend.    4. White Clay Creek State Park Image Source: Weekends with the Birds Just one look, and you’ll remember all of your childhood memories. Instant nostalgia.  That’s what White Clay Creek will give you when you take your first steps here. Once you’re close to the creek, you’ll see one of the greatest of Delaware's environmental views at White Clay Creek State Park in Newark. And guess what? You may also go disc golfing, biking, visiting the Chambers House Nature Center, fishing, and other activities here!    5. Winterthur Image Source: Only In Your State And to close our excellent scenic list is the one that trumps them all: the enchanting lands of Winterthur.  The Winterthur Gardens in Wilmington is already magnificent all year round. Still, the perfect time to visit Winterthur is the Fall Season. During this time too, museums are at a discount, and there are fewer people, so you can take in the view for yourself. This place will leave a deep longing with you as you walk around, and you’ll have a newfound appreciation for life when you step out. It’s that good.    Final Thoughts Delaware’s Fall Season is continually ranked as one of the country's best places to go during autumn. If you haven’t been to these spots, you must plan your weekend getaway in one of these. This season only comes once every year, so make sure you pay a visit anytime soon!  And guess what? Isn’t it great to just move here to Delaware and buy your dream home? This way, you’ll never have to worry about booking flights if you want to go to any of these places during the fall. And that is what we do in Loft Realty: we help people like you buy your dream home here in the beautiful state of Delaware. So, whenever you’re ready, let’s talk.  Delaware also has a lot of Festivals during the fall. And we also talked about how to prepare for the Fall Season in Delaware to help you, so check it out. 

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  • Best Things To Do In New Castle County for Halloween,Zachary Foust

    Best Things To Do In New Castle County for Halloween

    Hey friends! Halloween is coming! The Halloween season is excellent for showing off your frightening costumes and holiday enthusiasm. Still, it's also a great time to enjoy cuisine and fun local activities with friends and family. Throughout Delaware this month, several breweries and groups are celebrating Halloween. So, are you ready to ring in the Halloween season? If you answer yes, check out these fun Halloween activities to immediately get into the holiday mood!   1. Trunk-or-Treat at the Town Church Image Source: The Pioneer Woman If you are in New Castle County, you might be familiar already with Middletown’s Trunk-or-Treat at the Town Church. It’s in its third year, so bring your kids to the Town Church on October 23 from 1-3 p.m. for spooky yet lively vibes.  And guess what? Trunk-or-Treat guarantees that Delawareans will have a unique Halloween this year, with frightening themes, special character appearances, costumes, and TONS of candy. Just remind your kids to visit the dentist if you think they bagged too much candy.    2. Halloween Ghost Ship Image Source: Kalmar Nyckel Who’s not a fan of ghost ships? Of course, everyone loves ghost ships. And the best to do it is the Kalmar Nyckel Halloween Ghost Ship in Wilmington.  This Halloween, the Kalmar Nyckel Foundation shipyard offers frightful fun with a maritime edge to children of all ages. You may visit the 141-foot Tall Ship of Delaware. Then explore the Copeland Maritime Center, paint pumpkins, and participate in a costume parade on October 23 from 12-4 p.m. It sounds like a lot of spooky family-friendly fun, isn’t it?   3. Boo at the Brandywine Zoo Image Source: Lauren Van Hise What if you want to celebrate Halloween in a zoo? Of course, Brandywine got you. And that’s Wilmington’s iconic Boo at the Brandywine Zoo for you.  Join the fun at the Boo at the Zoo event on October 22-24. And don’t forget to come dressed up for Halloween and parade around the zoo, collecting candy and seeing the animals. And you know what’s exciting? Each child will get a gift bag to take home. So, hurry and grab those tickets priced at $7 per person at the door, but advance purchase is much better. You’ll never know how long the lines will be, so you better be early!   4. Boo & Brew 5K Image Source: Fusion Racing How about some spooky fun run with costumes and a charity event all in one? That’s Boo & Brew 5K for you! Midnight Oil Brewing Company's Boo & Brew 5K, held on October 30 by Fusion Racing, combines Halloween costumes with running. And even better is that the proceeds benefit the Friends of Fusion Foundation, nonprofit providing emergency help to Delaware's children and first responders.  Following the race, you and other runners will congregate at Midnight Oil Brewing for a scary good time. And guess what? On October 31st, there will also be an adult Halloween party, so after the kids, the adults can go crazy and have a good time too!   5. Tram-or-Treat at Winterthur Image Source: Winterthur And, of course, closing off our list is Winterthur's sophisticated and magnificent lands, all in their spooky grandeur. Like straight out of a picture book, the Tram-or-Treat at Winterthur will leave you and your kids wide-eyed with many elegant creepy vibes.  On October 30, enjoy the day trick-or-treating at the Winterthur Museum's Enchanted Woods. It’s so picturesque and dreamy! Then, starting at 10 a.m., the museum welcomes you to ride the special tram and stop at several locations for sweets and Halloween crafts from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.  And you know what’s better? Silly Joe and the Newark Ukesters provide musical entertainment for visitors. With adult tickets at $20, students' tickets at $18, and children's tickets at $6, it’s a complete package worth your money!    Final Thoughts And those are the best things to do in New Castle County in Delaware this Halloween season. So, get those costumes out of your dusty storage boxes and get to these events, and you’ll surely not be disappointed.  Did we miss anything? Let us know in the comments!  Delaware is also filled with Halloween festivities that you’ll surely love, so make sure you go to the top 6 festivals in Delaware this fall. And, if you love pumpkins and apples, here are the best Delaware farms where you can pick them. 

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  • The Best Hiking and Biking Trails in Delaware This Fall,Zachary Foust

    The Best Hiking and Biking Trails in Delaware This Fall

    Hey there! Are you looking for a new hiking trail in Delaware that challenges your limits? Or do you simply crave a new kind of fun, different from the same old tracks you keep returning to? Buckle up because we’re sharing the five best hiking trails we know in Delaware. Let’s begin!    1. Gordon’s Pond Trail  Image Source: AllTrails First off: the gorgeous Gordon’s Pond Trail. Feel free to explore this 10.3-kilometer out-and-back trail near Lewes, Delaware, with your family and friends. By the way, it takes an average of 1 hour and 52 minutes to accomplish this trip, which is generally considered simple. Because this is a famous spot for birding, hiking, and road riding, you'll likely run into other people while exploring. The route is available all year and is a great place to come anytime. And you can bring your dogs with you! – just keep them on a leash.    2. Alapocas Wood Trail Image Source: AllTrails Want a real challenge? Go to Alapocas Wood Trail. Explore this 2.9-kilometer circular route in Rockland, Delaware, at your own pace. You’ll see that It will take you an average of 45 minutes to accomplish this challenging course. You'll almost certainly run into other people while exploring, and this route is best visited between February and November. Beware of rocks, though. Because this is a REAL mountain bike trail. And definitely go off-road! You must venture off route to see the enormous boulder stream, the Brandywine Zoo waterfall, and the top of the Alapocas rock formation to fulfill your cravings for off-road adventure. The track, however, is always visible from the surroundings, so you should be OK. Overall, the route was fantastic (although it might have used a few more signs and marks).   3. Swamp Forest Trail Image Source: OnlyInYourState Next up is the rocky Swamp Forest Trail. As the name suggests, the Trail winds through wetland woodlands on the border of Lums Pond in the park's center. You’ll cross various bridges and boardwalk sections along the trip, which is truly an exhilarating experience.  The Swamp Forest trail is great to ride around, and it includes a lot of entertaining areas. If you enjoy biking, there are enough difficulties to keep you going. Ride over roots, logs, little leaps, and other small challenges to satisfy your adventurous heart.   4. Brandywine Creek River Loop Image Source: AllTrails Another great trail is the highly reviewed Brandywine Creek River Loop. The path is a 7.7-kilometer circular path in Wilmington, Delaware, which typically takes about 1 hour and 37 minutes to accomplish this reasonably tricky course. Brandywine Creek River Loop is known for its meadowland vistas and blue gneiss stone walls constructed in the late 1800s and early 1900s. The trail is visible in the middle of a remnant old-growth forest. Also, chipmunks are frequently found near the trail’s stone walls, which were used to delineate property limits when the region was rich in agriculture. Brandywine Creek River Loop is perfect if you want a good mix of ease, a wildlife view, and a historic trail.   5. Chestnut Hill Trail Image Source: AllTrails And closing off our list is The Chestnut Hill Trail, also known as the Judge Morris Estate. Judge Morris handed down this tract of land to the state of Delaware as parkland many years ago. Since 1994, the Chestnut Hill Trail has been on this site and is now a popular trail among hikers!  What’s impressive is that the trails are all freshly maintained singletrack open throughout the year. But mind you, it kinda gets twisty compared to the others. Once you’re in it, you’ll be rewarded with lush forests and meadows that will make you smile as you traverse it. You’ll never be disappointed in the Chestnut Hill Trail when you crave something refreshing and fun.    Final Thoughts And that’s it for the best hiking and biking trails in Delaware! So what are you waiting for? Go with your friends and family and explore these beautiful and challenging trails.  Do you have something to add to this list? Share it with us in the comments below! If you want to buy a home here in Delaware, we at Loft Realty can help you. Contact us today, and let’s have a wonderful chat. By the way, do you know Dewey Beach? We have compiled the best things to do in Dewey Beach if you want to read about them. Also, check out the top 6 festivals in Delaware during the fall season if you're going to make the most out of this month!

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  • Top 5 Delaware Farms to Pick Pumpkins and Apples,Zachary Foust

    Top 5 Delaware Farms to Pick Pumpkins and Apples

    Delawareans enjoy the autumn season by sipping pumpkin spice lattes, donning toasty flannels, and choosing the finest pumpkins. Going apple and pumpkin picking in the fall has become a tradition across the United States, and there are many farms to select from. We selected seven Delaware farms and orchards perfect for apple and pumpkin harvesting. So find one near you and prepare to bring home a farm-fresh load. Without further ado, let’s jump right in! 1. Mr. Peppers Pumpkin Patch Image Source: Pinterest First on our list is the excellent Mr. Peppers Pumpkin Patch in Wilmington. Visitors to Mr. Peppers Pumpkin Patch can get lost in the two-acre corn maze or take a lovely hayride through the fields. Open till October 31, this adorable pumpkin patch has been bringing fall feelings to the First State since 1989, with over 12 varieties of pumpkins to select from. There are so many things to love about Mr. Peppers Pumpkin Patch. You can find a Corn Trivia Maze, Hay Maze, and Spookley Sorghum Maze. You can also let your kids play in the Farm Yard Playground and see animals. And lastly, you can start participating in pumpkin painting.    2. Filasky's Produce and Farm Market Image Source: Filasky’s Pumpkin Patch Next on our list is the family farm in Middletown called Filasky’s Produce and Farm Market. Residents may harvest their pumpkins every Saturday at Filasky's Produce and Farm Market. Delawareans may enjoy meandering through a soybean maze and riding hayrides through the fields. Locals can even enjoy feasting on delectable pumpkin doughnuts prepared by Beth's Bread and ice cream from Woodside Farms Creamery until the end of October. Guests may enjoy a chilly evening with a midnight hayride and a blazing campfire until early November.   3. Fifer Orchards Image Source: Visit Delaware Villages Third, on our list is the Wyoming gem called Fifer Orchards. Delawareans may bring their children to Fifer Orchards' six-acre corn maze and choose their pumpkins and fruit throughout October. On the other hand, the farm is not provided with wagons, so bring your own.  In addition, Fifer's Fresh Eats & the Farm Store serves a great lunch. Soups, salads, sandwiches, pizza, and more items are available. However, certain autumn activities, such as apple harvesting, are only accessible on Saturdays.    4. Thousand Acre Farm Image Source: PartySpace The fourth in our rundown is the Thousand Acre Farm, one of the most remarkable things Middletown has to offer the local community. From Labor Day until October, visitors may select from more than nine varieties of apples at this farm, which also serves as a rustic wedding site.  This family-run wedding venue boasts an orchard with dwarf trees (smaller trees closer to the ground) for easy pickings. Truly a great place in Delaware to pick pumpkins and apples!   5. Kranz Hill Farm Image Source: Kranz Hill Farm And closing our list is the Kranz Hill Farm located in Newark. This Newark farmers market began selling solely what they farm-raised in 2010. Still, it now specializes in high-quality local items, including fruits, vegetables, meat, cheese, eggs, honey, and more.  In the fall, the market sells a wide variety of pumpkins, ranging from white pumpkins and kabocha to knucklehead pumpkins and much more. If you want many pumpkin and apple picking options, Kranz Hill Farm is the best place for you.    Final Thoughts And that’s it for our top five Delaware farms to pick pumpkins and apples this Halloween Autumn season. Did we miss anything that we should include here? Share it with us in the comments below! Also, do you want to build a home near these Delaware farms? Now is the best time to do it, and we at Loft Realty can help you through it. If you like this post, check out why you should consider investing in duplex homes in Delaware as your first try on real estate. Also, if you want to spook yourself with the pumpkins you’ve picked, see the most haunted places in Delaware. 

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  • Top 6 Festivals in Delaware This Fall,Zachary Foust

    Top 6 Festivals in Delaware This Fall

    The fall season has finally arrived in Delaware. And what better way to kick off things than by making the most of the nice weather and events happening this month? That includes the iconic festivals in Delaware this season, and you don't want to miss any of them!  Here are the top six festivals in Delaware this fall that you should check out.   1. OktDoverFest 2022 Image Source: VisitDelaware First on the list is the annual OktDoverFest 2022, which will take place on Loockerman Street in Dover on October 8. OktDoverFest, Dover's take on a historic German rite of passage, honors Dover's booming small businesses, military community, craft beverage sector, and new manufacturing partners.  Dover's restaurants and pubs will provide street food. Your favorite food trucks will line Loockerman Street, serving their specialties, and local artisans will sell products. Delaware's craft beverage industry will be heavily represented, with booths selling spirits, beers, and wines. Downtown retailers may provide early Christmas shopping coupons, sidewalk deals, and freebies.  Bring your little ones since OktDoverFest has something for everyone!   2. Fifer Orchards Fall Fun Fest 2022 Image Source: Visit Delaware Villages Next is the Fifer Orchards Fall Fun Fest in Fifer's Farm Store in Wyoming. This mix of cuisine, farm tours, and a corn maze focuses on Fifer Orchards Fall's luscious abundance. The Fun Fest will last until November 5, so you'll have plenty of time to prepare.  Check out the U-Pick Pumpkin and Apple Patch, U-Play area, Farm Store, Live Music, Tractor-Train Rides, Baby Farm Animals, and Face Painting on Saturdays. There will also be a Fall Festival Marketplace with activities for all ages, and you'll indeed have a blast!   3. Bridgeville Apple-Scrapple Festival 2022 Image Source: Visit Delaware Third on the list is the iconic Bridgeville Apple-Scrapple Festival in the Bridgeville Fire Company on the 14th and 15th of October. From 2,500 guests in 1992 to over 20,000, Delaware's joyful and family-friendly celebration of the state's favorite breakfast dish has become an annual tradition.  Starting Friday at 6:30 p.m., there will be a carnival, food court, and a "Little Miss Apple Scrapple" pageant. On Saturday morning, carnival rides, children's activities, live entertainment, a car show, trade exhibition, craft exhibits, and fantastic food sellers such as apple dumplings, scrapple sandwiches, oyster sandwiches, hamburgers and hotdogs, BBQ beef sandwiches, ice cream, and much more will be available. "Apple Scrapple" has become a significant fundraiser for local community organizations and a means of raising awareness of the agricultural sector in lower Delaware.   4. Rehoboth Beach Jazz Festival 2022 Image Source: Visit Delaware The Rehoboth Beach Jazz Festival is the annual, 4-day fall music event held in multiple locations throughout lower Sussex County from October 13 to 16. Since 1990, they've had the most prominent artists of Smooth Jazz and R&B and continue to discover newer jazz artists in Delaware. Come for the cuisine, the tax-free shopping, and the loveliness of the seaside in the fall air. But most importantly, come and enjoy the music!   5. Hagley Craft Fair 2022 Image Source: Visit Wilmington De Next is every artisan's happy place: the Hagley Craft Fair in Wilmington, running from October 15 to 16. This market brings together brilliant Mid-Atlantic artisans to showcase and sell excellent arts, crafts, and gourmet goods. This debut event will include a gourmet food market and works in wood, ceramics, textiles, metal, and other media.  Visit the merchants on Hagley's gorgeous upper land and within the Soda House structure. Lunch will be within easy reach for purchase from food vendors. Admission is free and open to the public, so mark the date in your calendar and support the local artisans here in Delaware!   6. Sea Witch Festival 2022 Image Source: Beach-Fun.Com And closing off this list is the Sea Witch Halloween & Fiddler's Festival in Rehoboth Beach this October 28 to 30. This famous festival, which HGTV featured on their list of the "21 Great Fall Festivals," has been running strong at Rehoboth Beach for over three decades.  At this family-friendly community event, the streets along the coast are filled with hundreds of witches, monsters, zombies, and other characters, promising a frightening and magnificent October! Not to be missed are the Costume Parade and the Dog Costume Parade, magic shows, pony rides, Halloween-themed scavenger hunts, a Broom-Tossing Contest, and various musical acts on the Bandstand. If you want to have a perfect place to be on Halloween, this is the one that will do it.    Final Thoughts And that closes our list of the top 6 Festivals in Delaware this fall. Remember to mark the dates in your calendar and enjoy the coming festivals!  Are you looking to have these festivals close to your home? Let's get you a deal in Delaware via call! Also, you may want to buy a duplex home to dip your hands in real estate investing. And if you're looking for spooky stories this Halloween, check out the haunted places in Delaware.

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  • How to Prepare for the Fall Season in Delaware,Zachary Foust

    How to Prepare for the Fall Season in Delaware

    Are you wondering how to prepare for the fall season here in Delaware? With summer winding down, now is an excellent time for a routine checkup to ensure that the interiors of your Delaware home are in top condition. In Delaware, the autumn season is a fantastic time to get ahead on house maintenance and other renovations to avoid unexpected repairs and irritation when lower temps set in. During this season, you want to ensure the effective operation of vital systems, such as HVAC units and water heaters. And you also want to avoid additional home dangers, such as unventilated fireplaces or uncovered pipes, which may cause unnecessary stress and expenditures. These are the key things to cross off your fall to-do list to ensure the interiors of your Delaware home are updated and cared for over the following season.   1. Examine Windows While opening your windows in the fall is a terrific way to enjoy the Delaware autumn air, you also have to check for cracks and leaks. Reseal any leaks or gaps in the window seals with silicone-based latex caulk. If you need to replace your windows entirely, do it as soon as possible to avoid chilly air from entering your home. Take good care of weep holes, too. These are small holes on the exterior of your window frame, and their function is to provide drainage for water that may seep inside the window's channel. To clean, remove the particles with an unbent paper clip.   2. Revamp the Entrance Coming in from the cold weather into your warm and inviting Delaware house is a lovely experience. But with cool temperatures comes cooler weather. It implies thicker jackets, the chance of muddy flooring, and a greater danger of slips and falls. Prepare your foyer for the autumn by installing slip-resistant mats for wiping off shoes and potentially a shoe rack with built-in sitting space to serve as a dedicated location to take off and store shoes. Check that your coat rack is strong enough to hold extra-heavy jackets and caps and that your damp umbrellas have a home. Finally, protect entryway flooring by placing down a rug that can withstand seasonal wear and tear.   3. Maintain Your Door Lock When the weather begins to cool in Delaware, even to freezing, you'll want to ensure your door lock doesn't stick. We propose lubricating door locks with powdered graphite (these are less smelly than other varieties). In this way, it will prevent the door lock from sticking or freezing.   4. Carpet Cleaning Carpets insulate and make rooms warm and inviting. Still, mold may sneak into your Delaware house undetected. We propose utilizing or renting a carpet extraction cleaner to remove dirt and debris and remove moisture from the flooring before the rainy season begins.   5. Indoor Lighting Upgrade The daytime is getting shorter, and the nighttime is becoming longer in Delaware during the fall. Hence, it is an opportunity to replace incandescent light bulbs with energy-saving LED bulbs. These lights last a long time and may save you more money.   6. Pay attention to your HVAC One of the most acceptable methods to care for your Delaware house in the autumn is to do HVAC maintenance. Simply changing its filter will help you avoid appliance damage and save your energy cost because it will not be overworked. The filter will develop a light brown hue and, if not replaced regularly, might cause health problems. To proactively manage your heating and cooling system, replace these filters with new ones at each season change. It is instrumental in the fall when the weather brings more dust and allergens into the house, which your filter will catch.   7. Set up the fireplace Yes, it's this time of the year to set up again that beautiful fireplace. Check the fireplace before lighting your first fire after it has been dormant for the spring and summer months. This practice helps avoid possible risks such as smoke entering your house.  You may clean the fireplace using a dust brush, dustpan, and bucket. Still, if you believe your chimney requires service, this project's complexity swiftly rises from a two to a ten. When it comes to heavy-duty preparation, we recommend obtaining the assistance of a professional to ensure that these pros carry out inspections and cleaning steps as safely as possible.   8. Bring out your fall supplies. And finally, put away any summer cooling equipment, such as free-standing fans or window AC units. Then, replace it with portable space heaters and other items that keep you warm during the fall. It is also an excellent time to turn your overhead fans clockwise, which draws cold air up and delivers warm air.   Final Thoughts And that's it! You're now all set for the fall season here in Delaware. And not only that, but the fall season is also a great time to buy a home here in Delaware! Contact us, and we'll show you how.  As you look for homes in Delaware, you might have heard about Rehoboth Beach or Fenwick Island. Read here if you want to know which is better than the two. Also, check out why the internet makes us afraid to buy a home in Delaware today.

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  • The Most Haunted Places in Delaware,Zachary Foust

    The Most Haunted Places in Delaware

    Did you know Delaware was one of the first locations to be established in what is now known as the United States of America? That means some historic structures have hidden stories, and the land has a long and intriguing history. When a place has a long wartime past, you can bet that hauntings and strange happenings will follow. It is no surprise that Delaware has many ghost stories to tell! Let's learn more about the most haunted spots in Delaware and how you can have a spooky bedtime story with your friends.    The Addy Sea, Bethany Image Source: Resorts and Lodges The Addy Sea is a lovely Victorian-style bed & breakfast with fantastic sea views and a welcoming atmosphere. However, this is also one of Delaware's most haunted locations. The home got its name after John M. Addy during its establishment in 1902. At least three of the thirteen rooms are said to have haunted affairs. First, the Addy Sea's fabled bathroom is in Room 1, where the copper bathtub is forcefully shaking. Many people have witnessed this unusual, unexplainable event! If not enough, a specific paranormal activity occurs in Room 6. People passing by the room claim to hear organ music from it, even though there is no organ! There have also been a few sightings of footprints on the roof late at night, which some believes that it's the spirit of Kurt Addy, who died after falling from the top many years ago.   Bellevue Hall, Wilmington Image Source: Wedding Spot Bellevue Hall is a site in Bellevue State Park that is said to be one of the most haunted places in Delaware due to multiple spirits. The second and third floors of the building are off-limits to the general public. However, staff employees claim that these are the most active portions of the property in terms of inexplicable behavior.  Ghosts tamper with the electrical, move chairs, and be heard in the form of disembodied shouts and laughing! To have a portion of the building off-limits because of these is quite disturbing!   Christiana Fire Company Station 12, Christiana Image Source: Flickr The Christiana Fire Company Station 12 received reports that two spirits haunted them. One is malevolent, and the other is kind. The evil ghost emerges as a shadowy figure in the engineer's chamber doorway. This one appears more often than the gentler ghost. In actuality, the friendly spirit shows itself less often. Still, people believe that anytime the evil spirit comes, the kind spirit also appears, preventing the evil one from continuing down the corridor. Witnesses claim a constant war between good and bad and that everyone present can sense it. John Dickinson House, Dover Image Source: Pinterest The Dickinson Mansion, commonly known as Poplar Hall, is a haunted location on Dover's John Dickinson Plantation. It was the childhood home of John Dickinson, a former congressman and delegate to the 1787 United States Constitutional Convention. The property, built in 1739, was nearly destroyed in the 1804 fire, and today, it is now a museum available to the public. The ghost of John Dickinson himself haunts the mansion, as reports say. And many guests reported hearing someone writing in the old master's study. Some people saw his apparition on the site, and his voice has been caught on EVP multiple times.   Delaware Governor’s Mansion, Dover Image Source: TripAdvisor Many believe the Dover Governor's Mansion is the most haunted in Delaware. It has a claim to being erected in 1790, and its first documented ghost sighting was in 1815! Dr. and Mrs. Martin Bates were the original owners. During a visit, Mrs. Bates requested a well-known itinerant preacher called Mr. Lorenzo Dow to lead a prayer at breakfast with the Bates. Mr. Dow advised they wait for the other person in the house, but he was apprehensive.  Mrs. Bates, surprised, stated that no one else was in the house with them. Dow characterized the man he had just passed on the stairwell as an elderly gentleman dressed in a powdered wig, knee britches, and a ruffled blouse. Mrs. Bates couldn't believe what she heard since he had just described her late father, Mr. Charles Hillyard III, the home's builder, and original owner.   Final Thoughts Well, that was spooky! That kicks off our Halloween month in Delaware, and these are the most haunted places in Delaware today. If you’re not intimidated by it, check these out during the daytime as all of these places are beautiful in broad daylight.  Want to buy a new home here in Delaware? We’d love for you to talk with us. Check out the most fun things to do in Lewes if you want to lighten the mood a little bit. And, in case you’re interested, here’s how millionaires make more money by not paying rent. 

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  • Doom scrolling: How The Internet Makes Us Afraid To Buy A Home In Delaware,Zachary Foust

    Doom scrolling: How The Internet Makes Us Afraid To Buy A Home In Delaware

    Source: https://youtube.com/shorts/3altnC6morA The internet is a scary place. Every day, we get bombarded with stories of how the world is ending. The economy is crashing. The stock market is in freefall. The housing market is going to--you get the point.  However, we feel so bad for consumers because we get so much bad news thrown at us from every angle. And it's not getting any better. Hence, home buyers, although they want to buy a home, don't push through because of all this fear-mongering.  So, what's causing this fear? Are they rational or just speculation? Let's talk about the dangers of doom-scrolling and how the internet makes us afraid to buy a home in Delaware.    Why there's so much bad news lately? From the highly charged doomsday videos on TikTok, all the way to the highest forms of media of CNN and Fox News, the internet gives us whatever information they want us to know and whatever information they want us to believe. They take advantage of unsuspecting consumers by making us fear the worst. And it's all just a way to make us more dependent on the content they provide.  The more we watch the news, the more ads they can shove on our faces. The more fearful we get, the more we watch, and the more ads they can sell.  It's a vicious cycle. And what's worse is that whenever these media give this news to us, there's no actual data behind it. And it's all just speculation. Let's talk about it a little bit more.   Not backed up by data? The one that hits closest to home for us is the housing market, and everybody said it's going to crash. Every time we see this, they don't give any basis for why this will happen. No stats, no reason whatsoever, and they want to say it for attention. It has been our delight to give you our monthly market updates here in Loft Realty to keep you updated on Delaware's housing market. We attempt to dispel those irrational fears grounded in speculation by showing you the numbers and the facts. We are a team of real estate pros who study the market day-by-day and think about the real help we can provide to you as our clients so you can buy the dream home you love. That's why our hearts break when the internet comes to us and keeps saying, "It's gonna crash!" yet we don't see it on our data. Let us clarify: there is no market crash, and we have data for it. And we at Loft Realty are here to help you buy a new home in Delaware amidst all the noise.    Final Thoughts Negative news sells. So that's what the internet is giving you all the time. And we don't want that for you. Talk to us today so we can explain in more detail why the housing market is stable, and now is the perfect time for you to buy a home here in Delaware.  If you are curious, here's a detailed explanation of why the housing market will not crash. And if you want to unwind and free yourself from all this negative news, have a trip to Dewey Beach and try out some of the best things to do here.

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  • House Flipping: Three Things to Know When Flipping a House in Delaware,Mike Riches

    House Flipping: Three Things to Know When Flipping a House in Delaware

    Source:https://youtube.com/shorts/xHfeQ2ksoqU Do you want to get your hand in flipping houses? You may hear someone tell you that flipping houses is not as hard, yet it can make you more money. There's more to it, yet, no one is helping you to get started.  We're here to help. Here are three things to flipping a house in Delaware should you decide to do it. Let's jump right in.    1. Know how you're going to finance this project. First, you should know how you are going to finance this project. Ask yourself, how are you going to pay for this house? House flipping is not an accessible business, and you should prepare to do some tricky math.  Also, be prepared for how you will pay for the renovation. Most houses at first don't look pretty, and flipping houses requires you to do some overhauls. It is the part called "home staging," where you have to do some renovations to make the house more appealing to buyers.  Then, evaluate your financial situation properly. Do you have the cash? Do you have to borrow money? To whom are you going to borrow money? Please don't shy away from these questions and answer them truthfully. Because if you can't answer them, there's no turning back once you start flipping houses.    2. Know your numbers.  The second thing is to know your numbers. Ask yourself how much this house costs or how much the renovation. Also, draft some estimates on how much you can sell this house once it's all said and done.  It's important because you're going to have closing costs going in, and you're also going to have closing costs coming out. If you don't know these things, the prices might surprise you, catching you off-guard. You have to get short-term insurance rather than just trusting your gut.  Know your numbers, and make sure you can make a profit when this is all said and done. You don't want to make an error that costs you a lot of money just because you didn't do your research.    3. Hire a good contractor.  Lastly, hire a good contractor, especially if it's your first time flipping houses. A contractor's skill can make or break this whole project for you, and they are the ones who will have the actual touches on the homes you want to flip.  A good contractor could make this project very easy on you. A wrong contractor can give you a lot of headaches. Worse, you might pay more for the project than you would have just because you're tying up loose ends made by the contractor.  Hence, carefully consider whom you're hiring before you start. Look at your contractor's track record and background. You want to hire the best people for the job so there will be no future complaints from those who buy your flipped houses.    Final Thoughts And there you go! That's how to flip houses for a profit. Follow these tips carefully, and you can start flipping houses for a living.  Do you want to know how to sell a home fast in Delaware? Make sure to read this article first. And you should also check out why Delaware is better than New Jersey in buying a home. If you want to be in touch with us, click here so we can talk and get you going. 

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  • How Do Millionaires Make More Money By Not Paying Rent,Zachary Foust

    How Do Millionaires Make More Money By Not Paying Rent

    Source: https://youtube.com/shorts/3f73JpmLLkE So you want to make more money? We’ll tell you what all millionaires do to make more money. The first thing? They don’t pay rent. You might think, “it’s because they are rich already.” Point taken, but if you want to know how millionaires make money, you must understand how they think. And that sometimes requires a massive shift in mindset. Are you ready? Let us explain what we mean when we say millionaires make more money by not paying rent.    What Happens to Your Money When You Pay Rent Imagine this scenario. You have a job, and you pay rent in your current home. All because somebody told you home ownership is over-rated or too costly for you. You're handing your money to your landlord as you rent his house monthly. And they get to keep them in their entirety. No problem, right? Now, you got a new job, and you have to move to a new place! What happens to all the money you gave to your landlord? They won’t come back to you.  At least, he’ll give your security deposit back, which roughly equals about a month’s rent. Now, you’re on your way to giving your hard-earned money to other people again.   Why Home Ownership Makes You More Money Meanwhile, if you own that same home, the monthly payments will return to you as equity. By definition, equity means assets after liabilities. In short, equity is your net worth after taking out all your debts, and money is only one part of it. As you pay for your home, your money is not lost but only transferred to a valuable asset. In this case, your home. And there are many other types of equity you can own, including business, real estate, stocks, and cash on hand.  All of these together build up your equity, and this value is what Forbes publishes in their magazines. The millionaires' net worth and total equities mean their millions are not entirely cash. Instead, they spread out their riches into assets, like homes. In short, they own homes, not rent them.   Final Thoughts Most people think owning a home locks them into a single place more long-term. But in finance terms, 91% of all millionaires have made so much money on the backs of real estate. So, if you want to make more of these, you should stop handing them to your landlord monthly.  Stop paying rent for your home; start owning them.  And that’s how millionaires make more money by not paying rent. If you’re wondering if you can buy a home here in Delaware when you’re not married, read about it here.  And if you want to start owning your home rather than pay rent, contact us today, and we will help you get started.   

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  • Best of Dewey Beach Delaware,Zachary Foust

    Best of Dewey Beach Delaware

    Source:https://youtu.be/LO_dDd4xrPE Looking for the perfect weekend getaway or a vibrant nightlife here in Delaware? You've got to go to Dewey Beach! Dewey Beach in Delaware is the perfect spot to spend your weekends or nightlife. With an ocean beach on one side and a string of happy hour spots on the other, you will feel young at heart whenever you are here. And to top it off, Dewey Beach is known for its vibrant restaurants and music-filled bars that are just screaming, "good vibes!"  So let us walk you through some of the most fabulous bars and spots downtown Dewey for you to enjoy.    Nalu Surf Bar & Grill Source: https://6ysp2lfr8c-flywheel.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Nalu_002a-022_-1310x936.jpg First on our list is the open-air family restaurant Nalu Surf Bar & Grill. It's a great place during the day to get pacific island fusion cuisine in Dewey if you're hungry.  With its upbeat island vibes, they serve high-quality sashimi grade fish and Wagyu Beef that will surely overwhelm your taste buds. They are that good!   Rusty Rudder Source: https://img-aws.ehowcdn.com/700x/cdn.onlyinyourstate.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/1274606_530725153664852_563274721_o-700x525.jpg Once you've got your fill, you should check out Rusty Rudder here in Dewey Beach in the afternoon. Its iconic outdoor deck overlooking Rehoboth Bay alone will surely keep all of your worries at bay. Couple that with the salty sea breeze, delicious food and drinks, and a youthful music-filled vibe, and you've got the best seaside happy hour here in Delaware!  This place is just utterly gorgeous. Facing the beach, you can pull your boat up, get on a jet ski, or do a little parasailing.  You can also grab a bite to eat and listen to live music before heading back into the bay. But there's one thing you should not forget here: the drinks.  One of Rusty Rudder's specialty drinks is the Watermelon Crush. This refreshing drink is made by mixing Watermelon Vodka, Watermelon, and a little Sprite. Very refreshing!   Bottle & Cork Source: https://i.pinimg.com/originals/c4/b8/39/c4b839682d31eba5ed8b9fd16298c536.jpg Close in the day but very popular at night, we recommend your first stop for doing nightlife should be here at the infamous Bottle & Cork. Everything you want for entertainment, from live bands to DJs, to 90 throwbacks--you name it, they got it. If music is how you unwind and have a good time, then the 5 PM Jam Sessions will surely get you into dancing!   The Starboard  Source: https://thestarboard.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/good-eats-3-570x570.jpg If you are not a Delaware native, you're probably not familiar with this bestselling drink: an Orange Crush. If you haven't, that's disappointing because you are missing much of your life. And you can grab one of these Orange Crushes on the iconic bar named The Starboard.  Starboard is one of the most fun locations here in Dewey Beach, with excellent nightlife. It gets packed every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, and they have live bands and DJs come in every single weekend in the summer! Moreover, they have one of the best chicken tenders you can order in the entire state of Delaware. So, make sure to grab those tenders and have some shots! Northbeach Source: https://www.gannett-cdn.com/-mm-/966ade9be90650140e90ea483c7d5fffe3980e14/c=80-0-1321-931&r=x404&c=534x401/local/-/media/Wilmington/2014/08/07/northbeach.jpg And finally, but definitely not least, the Dewey Beach experience is not complete without visiting Northbeach.  Northbeach has one of the best beach experiences here in Dewey, especially at sunset. You can peacefully look out at the water, have a couple of sips of your drink near some firepit, and indoors, lovely music events are scheduled across the month. And, of course, the fantastic people who work at these bars are bright and unforgettable. So, don't forget to tip your bartenders very well, because here, you will indeed have a good time. So that's it! When you are here in Delaware, it's almost automatic to not miss out on the fun spots here in Dewey Beach, and it will indeed heal your soul. Enjoy Dewey Beach when you come and visit!  

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