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

By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
For empty nesters in Northern Delaware, deciding between downsizing to a 55+ active adult community or a traditional smaller home involves weighing lifestyle preferences, maintenance considerations, and social opportunities.   🏡 Active Adult Communities: Lifestyle & AmenitiesCommunities like Traditions at Whitehall in Middletown and The Parke at Foulkstone in Wilmington offer resort-style living tailored for those aged 55 and older. While these communities are currently being built, there are many neighborhoods that offer resale homes. These neighborhoods provide amenities such as clubhouses, fitness centers, walking trails, and organized social events, fostering a vibrant and engaging environment. Additionally, they often include services like landscaping and snow removal, allowing res...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
Downsizing your home can be a liberating experience, offering a chance to simplify your life and focus on what truly matters. Whether you're an empty nester, approaching retirement, or simply seeking a more manageable living space, the process of downsizing can lead to a more organized and stress-free lifestyle.  Step 1: Declutter with PurposeBegin by assessing your belongings critically. The 90/90 Rule is a helpful guideline: ask yourself if you've used an item in the last 90 days or plan to use it in the next 90. If the answer is no, it's time to let it go .To streamline the process, employ the Four-Box Method: label boxes as Keep, Donate, Trash, and Store. This approach aids in making decisive choices about each item.Step 2: Evaluate Your New SpaceUnderstanding the dimensions and lay...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
The fact that 70% of buyers put their home hunt on hold last year is hardly shocking. Perhaps you were among them. And don't pass judgment if it is. Simply put, things weren't going well.Prices were too high, inventory was too limited, and mortgage rates were fluctuating widely. Finding a house you loved and could afford became extremely difficult as a result. And if you don't know where you're headed, why sell?The problem is that the market is changing. Perhaps it's time to press play once more.  The Sweet Spot for InventoryThis year, more homeowners are resuming their quest for a home. More residences are being completed by builders. When combined, that gives you more options for your next relocation, possibly including the house of your dreams.There are more opportunities when there ...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
    Setting your price too high is a major error you should avoid while selling your home this year. Overpricing may appear to give you leverage in negotiations or to increase your profit, but in practice, it frequently backfires. According to Realtor.com, one in five sellers, or nearly 20% of all sellers, must lower their asking price in order to sell their home. And being one of them is not what you desire. Here's why getting off to a bad start can cause problems and how to prevent it.     Overpricing May Eliminate the Right Buyers Due to current housing prices and mortgage rates, buyers are already straining their finances to make a purchase. Therefore, they aren't thinking, "I can negotiate," when they see a house that is too expensive. They're more inclined to ignore your residence...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
Selling a home is a big decision—emotionally, financially, and sometimes unexpectedly personal. For many sellers, especially those who've lived in a home for years, the process can stir up a complex mix of feelings. One of the most common and unexpected reactions? Home seller’s remorse.What is Seller’s Remorse?Seller’s remorse happens when a homeowner regrets the decision to sell after the process has started—or even after the sale is complete. It can come from emotional attachment, second-guessing the timing, or even comparing offers and wondering if they could’ve gotten more. The reasons vary, but the feelings are real.  Why It Happens Emotional Ties: Your home holds memories—holidays, milestones, and everyday life. Letting go can feel like letting go of a part of your story. Fear of ...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
  It doesn't have to be difficult to increase the value of your house. Its market value and appeal can be greatly increased with a few well-considered changes. Let's look at some manageable and significant upgrades that are both useful and efficient. 1. Adopt the 'Organic Modern' Style of Design In interior design, the "organic modern" aesthetic is gaining popularity right now. This style blends organic materials like clay, stone, and wood with streamlined, minimalist components. Adding elements like wet rooms, Venetian plaster walls, and soapstone worktops will improve the aesthetics of your house and possibly raise its worth. For example, the value of properties with soapstone countertops has increased by about 3.5 percent.     2. Rejuvenate Your Kitchen The kitchen, which is frequent...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
  The process of finding your ideal home may be both thrilling and overwhelming, particularly if you're attempting to stick to a budget. These tips will aid you in finding the ideal house without going over budget, regardless of whether you're upgrading or buying your first property. 1. Define Your Priorities Make a list of both necessities and desirables first. Think on things like the location, yard size, number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and ease of access to work or schools. You can concentrate on finding homes that suit your needs if you have a clear list of priorities.       2. Set a Realistic Budget Find out how much you can afford before you begin your home search. To estimate your monthly payments and account for extra expenses like maintenance, insurance, and property taxes, use ...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
Selling a home is a significant decision that involves strategic planning to ensure maximum returns. In 2025, homeowners aiming to optimize their sale should focus on the week of April 13-19. This period is projected to offer favorable market conditions for sellers.Understanding the Optimal Selling WeekRealtor.com's analysis indicates that the week of April 13-19, 2025, is expected to present an ideal balance of housing market conditions favoring sellers. This projection is based on historical seasonal trends and current market dynamics. ​  Advantages of Selling During April 13-19, 2025 Higher Listing Prices: Homes listed during this week have historically achieved prices 1.1% higher than the average week throughout the year, and are typically 6.7% higher than at the start of the year. ...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
  Owning a home is more than simply a place to live for many families; it's a sign of security, a starting point for memories, and an investment that will last for many generations. Here's how becoming a homeowner may serve as the foundation for your family's history. Building Wealth A family's home is frequently their biggest asset. Your home accumulates equity over time as you pay down your mortgage and real estate values rise. You can give your kids a financial advantage by passing this equity on to them. Having a home contributes to building a wealthier legacy that may be passed down through the generations.     Creating Memories A family home is more than just a physical location; it's a place where customs are established, significant events are commemorated, and tales are shared....
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
 Making your home as appealing as possible to draw in the right buyers and get a competitive offer is more important when selling a house than simply putting it on the market. There are various ways to highlight the greatest aspects of your house and raise its worth, from minor renovations to careful planning. In order to assist you move through the process with ease and confidence, this article examines doable actions you may do to get your home ready for sale. These suggestions can significantly improve your selling experience, whether you're focusing on curb appeal, space organization, or determining a reasonable pricing.   Curb Appeal for First ImpressionsOne of the best strategies to create a good first impression when selling your house is to improve curb appeal. The first thing p...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
  Although purchasing a home is an exciting milestone, many first-time buyers only consider the cost of the purchase and their mortgage. However, there are a number of unanticipated expenses associated with property that may surprise unprepared buyers. A smooth transition into homeownership and the avoidance of financial strain can be achieved by being aware of these costs up front.   Property Taxes Local property taxes can have a big influence on a homeowner's spending plan. Tax rates might rise over time, impacting affordability even though they are frequently included in monthly mortgage payments. Buyers should look into local property tax trends and account for future hikes.       Homeowners (Possibly Flood) Insurance Although costs might differ depending on location, property value...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
  "How long will it take to sell?" is one of the most common inquiries that sellers have when listing their house. There is no one-size-fits-all solution, but a number of factors affect how long a home is on the market. Sellers can set reasonable expectations and make well-informed judgments by being aware of these factors, which range from location and pricing strategy to market circumstances and property condition.   Average Time on the Market   Market trends determine how long it takes to sell a house. The average property in the United States sells in 30 to 45 days, according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), though this period varies based on outside variables including demand, loan rates, and seasonality. Homes can sell in a few days in a seller's market with little i...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
 Home inspections can provide important information about the state of a house, but they can also result in unforeseen problems and extra expenses. We have in-depth knowledge of the benefits and drawbacks of home inspections to assist you in weighing them.Whether to spend money on a home inspection is one of the most important decisions that purchasers have when purchasing a property. They can offer important information on the state of a property, but they can also result in unforeseen problems and extra expenses.    A Home Inspection: What Is It?A visual (non-invasive) evaluation of a property's state is called a home inspection. It helps buyers, sellers, and lenders identify any issues that could affect the home's safety, upkeep and value and is usually carried out as part of a real ...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
  Although purchasing your first house is a thrilling accomplishment, there are substantial financial obligations involved. It's crucial to develop wise financial practices prior to applying for a mortgage in order to streamline the process and position yourself for success. The following five tactics can help you prepare: 1. Maintain Employment Borrowers with steady and dependable income are preferred by lenders. Steer clear of major professional changes or job switching in the months before your mortgage application and through settlement of your home, if at all possible. To prove your financial stability, retain a consistent job and maintain documentation of your earnings, such as W-2s, tax returns, and pay stubs.     2. Learn About Your Options You may select the finest mortgage cho...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
  You regularly take your vehicle in for an oil change.  You make time in your hectic schedule to go to the gym.  Why? Because you are aware of how important it is to keep your car's body and engine in good condition. However, I'm willing to wager that you are among the majority of homeowners (68%) who neglect their property, which is their biggest financial investment.  It's true that housekeeping can occasionally be overpowering and tiresome. However, proactive house upkeep can have major financial, psychological, physical, and environmental benefits with only a minimal time, money, and effort investment.  1. Ensure Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors Are Always Ready:Priority one should always be safety. Test your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors once a month to be sure they are o...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
There are a lot of strong arguments for listing your house in the winter, even though many people wait until spring to do so. There are special benefits this season that might help sellers in a number of ways. Continue reading to find out why listing during this time could be a wise choice for your real estate endeavors! Wintertime Atmosphere A home can feel warm and welcoming throughout the winter months thanks to the festive and comfortable ambiance. Buyers may be able to relate to this emotional appeal and use it to visualize their own future home vacations. In general, winter homes stay warm even after the holidays are over, so purchasers can picture themselves furnishing the room with comfy furnishings and festive accents.   Enthusiastic Buyers The caliber of buyers is one of the ...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
Delaware provides a special set of advantages that make it a popular option for professionals, retirees, and families looking for the best place to buy their dream house. The First State is unique for the following reasons:1. Tax AdvantagesDelaware is renowned for having a tax environment that is beneficial. Residents can save a lot of money compared to nearby states because there is no sales tax, little property taxes, and no state tax on Social Security income. Delaware is particularly attractive to first-time homebuyers and retirees because of these financial advantages.2. Prime LocationDelaware, which is tucked away on the East Coast, has easy access to big cities like Baltimore, Philadelphia, New York and Washington, D.C. Its central position guarantees that everything you need is ...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
 Making your home as appealing as possible to draw in the right buyers and get a competitive offer is more important when selling a house than simply putting it on the market. There are various ways to highlight the greatest aspects of your house and raise its worth, from minor renovations to careful planning. In order to assist you move through the process with ease and confidence, this article examines doable actions you may do to get your home ready for sale. These suggestions can significantly improve your selling experience, whether you're focusing on curb appeal, space organization, or determining a reasonable pricing.Enhancing Curb AppealOne of the best strategies to create a good first impression when selling your house is to improve curb appeal. The first thing prospective buye...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
  Many of us are imagining new possibilities and establishing new goals in 2025. Some people see homeownership as part of that ambition. The new year is a great time to check into the process of purchasing a home, regardless of whether you're sick of renting, want to invest, or are just ready to upgrade. However, is 2025 the ideal year for you to make the decision? Let's examine the main elements that might influence your decision to purchase this year. 1. Rates, Rates, Rates Mortgage rates fluctuated in 2024, but analysts anticipate a more stable market in 2025. Rates are predicted to stay competitive and make house loans available to many purchasers, even though they might not reach all-time lows. Over the course of your loan, you might save thousands of dollars by monitoring rate pro...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
  Your credit score is a major factor in obtaining a favorable mortgage rate when purchasing a property. Now is the ideal time to begin working on raising your credit score if you intend to buy a house in 2025. You may improve your future mortgage alternatives and raise your credit score by following these easy and doable measures. 1. Cut Your Debt Balance Reducing your outstanding debt is one of the best strategies to raise your credit score. Your credit score may improve if your credit utilization rate—the percentage of your available credit that you're using—is lower. Prioritize paying off high-interest loans or credit cards. When assessing your application, mortgage lenders also look at your debt-to-income ratio, which this can assist reduce. Additionally, repaying outstanding bills...
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By Allan Rolnick, Small Business Tax Strategist
(TriState Tax Resolution LLC)
   2024 has been a great year for investors in cryptocurrency, with Bitcoin reaching all-time highs. With high profits can come high taxes. Fortunately, there are several strategies you can employ before year-end to reduce your 2024 crypto taxes. If you invested only in Bitcoin, you may not have any crypto losses.  But you could have losses if you invested in other forms of crypto. If so, you should consider selling your losers before the end of the year. You may fully deduct your losses from any capital gains you realize during the year, such as gains from selling other crypto or stocks at a profit.  If your losses exceed your capital gains for the year, you can use your remaining losses to offset up to $3,000 in personal income. You can carry any unused losses over to future years to ...
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