<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" ?>
<rss version="2.0" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom">
    <channel>
        <atom:link href="https://www.bestofbethany.com/blog/rss/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" />
        <title>Delaware Beach Real Estate Blog</title>
        <link>https://www.bestofbethany.com/blog/</link>
        <description></description>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.bestofbethany.com/blog/ocean-view-market-remains-strong/</guid>
    <link>https://www.bestofbethany.com/blog/ocean-view-market-remains-strong/</link>
        <author>leslie@lesliekopp.com (Leslie Kopp)</author>
        <title>Ocean View Market Remains Strong</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



*Data was derived from the Sussex County MLS and tax records. Includes properties in OCEAN VIEW. May not reflect all activity in the marketplace.


As another busy summer season winds down, many Ocean View buyers and sellers are beginning to think about what's next. Whether you're planning for next year or simply keeping an eye on the market, we've put together a snapshot of how the first seven months of this year compare to the same period last year. 


Ocean View continues to demonstrate exceptional market strength. While inventory has increased from 7 to 12 properties, sales activity has held steady. Overall sales volume has increased by 8, homes are going under contract an average of 21 days faster than last year, average sale prices have risen by 9, and sales of $2 million-plus homes are up 29, creating favorable conditions for homeowners considering a sale.


If selling or purchasing has been on your mind, we would be happy to provide a current market evaluation, answer your questions, and help you decide if the timing is right for you. Please give us a call. 


Leslie Kopp                   Christi Arndt            (302) 541-5207           (302) 245-5223          
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Tue, 11 Aug 2026 11:37:00 -0400</pubDate>
</item>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.bestofbethany.com/blog/fenwick-island-market-holds-strong/</guid>
    <link>https://www.bestofbethany.com/blog/fenwick-island-market-holds-strong/</link>
        <author>leslie@lesliekopp.com (Leslie Kopp)</author>
        <title>Fenwick Island Market Holds Strong </title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



*Data was derived from the Sussex County MLS and tax records. Includes properties in FENWICK ISLAND. May not reflect all activity in the marketplace.


As another busy summer season winds down, many Fenwick Island buyers and sellers are beginning to think about what's next. Whether you're planning for next year or simply keeping an eye on the market, we've put together a snapshot of how the first seven months of this year compare to the same period last year. 


Fenwick Island continues to demonstrate exceptional market strength. While inventory has increased from 7 to 12 properties, sales activity has held steady. Overall sales volume has increased by 8, homes are going under contract an average of 21 days faster than last year, average sale prices have risen by 9, and sales of $2 million-plus homes are up 29, creating favorable conditions for homeowners considering a sale.


If selling or purchasing has been on your mind, we would be happy to provide a current market evaluation, answer your questions, and help you decide if the timing is right for you. Please give us a call. 


Leslie Kopp                   Christi Arndt              Wayne Lyons(302) 541-5207           (302) 245-5223          (302) 858-7347
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Mon, 10 Aug 2026 11:34:00 -0400</pubDate>
</item>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.bestofbethany.com/blog/south-bethany-market-holds-strong/</guid>
    <link>https://www.bestofbethany.com/blog/south-bethany-market-holds-strong/</link>
        <author>leslie@lesliekopp.com (Leslie Kopp)</author>
        <title>South Bethany Market Holds Strong</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



*Data was derived from the Sussex County MLS and tax records. Includes properties in SOUTH Bethany. May not reflect all activity in the marketplace.


As another busy summer season winds down, many South Bethany buyers and sellers are beginning to think about what's next. Whether you're planning for next year or simply keeping an eye on the market, we've put together a snapshot of how the first seven months of this year compare to the same period last year. 


South Bethany continues to perform exceptionally well. Although the average time to secure a contract has increased compared to last year, the market remains highly competitive. Sales are up 7, overall sales volume has increased by 17, average sale prices have risen by 12, and sales of $2 million-plus homes have doubled. With only seven homes currently available, inventory remains limited, creating favorable conditions for homeowners considering a sale.


If selling or purchasing has been on your mind, we would be happy to provide a current market evaluation, answer your questions, and help you decide if the timing is right for you. Please give us a call. 


Leslie Kopp                    Christi Arndt(302) 541-5207           (302) 245-5223 
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Fri, 07 Aug 2026 11:29:00 -0400</pubDate>
</item>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.bestofbethany.com/blog/north-bethany-market-holds-strong/</guid>
    <link>https://www.bestofbethany.com/blog/north-bethany-market-holds-strong/</link>
        <author>leslie@lesliekopp.com (Leslie Kopp)</author>
        <title>North Bethany Market Holds Strong </title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
*Data was derived from the Sussex County MLS and tax records. Includes properties in North Bethany. May not reflect all activity in the marketplace.


As another busy summer season winds down, many North Bethany buyers and sellers are beginning to think about what's next. Whether you're planning for next year or simply keeping an eye on the market, we've put together a snapshot of how the first seven months of this year compare to the same period last year. 


Although the number of sales is down compared to last year, North Bethany's small size means that just a handful of transactions can significantly impact year-over-year statistics. More telling is the continued strength of the market: homes are going under contract eight days faster than they did last year, average sale prices have increased by an impressive 57, and demand for well-positioned properties remains strong.


If selling or purchasing has been on your mind, we would be happy to provide a current market evaluation, answer your questions, and help you decide if the timing is right for you. Please give us a call. 


Leslie Kopp                    Christi Arndt(302) 541-5207           (302) 245-5223 
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Thu, 06 Aug 2026 11:03:00 -0400</pubDate>
</item>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.bestofbethany.com/blog/bethany-beach-market-holds-strong/</guid>
    <link>https://www.bestofbethany.com/blog/bethany-beach-market-holds-strong/</link>
        <author>leslie@lesliekopp.com (Leslie Kopp)</author>
        <title>Bethany Beach Market Holds Strong</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



*Data was derived from the Sussex County MLS and tax records. Includes properties in Bethany BEACH. May not reflect all activity in the marketplace.





As another busy summer season winds down, many Bethany Beach buyers and sellers are beginning to think about what's next. Whether you're planning for next year or simply keeping an eye on the market, we've put together a snapshot of how the first seven months of this year compare to the same period last year.


Although the market has become more balanced than it was a year ago, Bethany Beach remains strong. With inventory down 15, well-priced properties are going under contract four days faster than the previous year. Average sale prices have increased by 7, and sales of $2 million-plus homes are up 10.


If purchasing or selling has been on your mind, we would be happy to provide a current market evaluation, answer your questions, and help you decide if the timing is right for you. Please give us a call. 


Leslie Kopp                    Christi Arndt(302) 541-5207           (302) 245-5223 

 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Wed, 05 Aug 2026 10:41:00 -0400</pubDate>
</item>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.bestofbethany.com/blog/delaware-gov-signs-freshwater-wetlands-protection-act/</guid>
    <link>https://www.bestofbethany.com/blog/delaware-gov-signs-freshwater-wetlands-protection-act/</link>
        <author>leslie@lesliekopp.com (Leslie Kopp)</author>
        <title>Delaware Gov. Signs Freshwater Wetlands Protection Act</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Credit to: Coastal Point





Delaware has officially established its first comprehensive state program to regulate and protect freshwater wetlands after Gov. Matt Meyer signed Senate Bill 9 into law this week.


The bipartisan legislation creates a statewide framework for protecting non-tidal wetlands while also providing a more predictable permitting process for landowners, farmers, developers and businesses. State officials said the law addresses regulatory gaps created by the U.S. Supreme Court's 2023 decision in Sackett v. Environmental Protection Agency, which significantly reduced federal jurisdiction over many freshwater wetlands.


Under the new law, Delaware will regulate approximately 75,000 acres of freshwater wetlands that no longer receive federal protection. In addition to establishing a statewide permitting program, Senate Bill 9 requires the creation of a Delaware Wetland Screening Tool, allowing property owners and developers to determine whether regulated wetlands are located on a parcel before beginning a project. The legislation also creates a Wetlands Regulatory Advisory Committee to assist with implementation of the new program.


&quot;When Washington stepped back from protecting freshwater wetlands, Delaware stepped up,&quot; Meyer said in a statement following the bill signing. &quot;This law protects one of our state's natural treasures while giving farmers, builders and businesses the certainty they need to invest with confidence.&quot;


Wetlands play an important role in protecting Delaware's communities and natural resources. According to the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC), they help absorb floodwaters during heavy storms, reduce erosion, improve water quality, provide habitat for fish and wildlife, and store carbon that contributes to climate change.


DNREC Secretary Greg Patterson said the legislation was the result of years of collaboration among agricultural, business and environmental organizations after previous efforts to establish a statewide freshwater wetlands program had failed.


&quot;Wetlands solve many problems our state and communities worry about, so Delaware needs to protect the wetlands we have left,&quot; Patterson said. He added that the permitting process was designed with significant input from the building, farming and environmental communities to improve efficiency while maintaining strong environmental protections.


State Sen. Stephanie Hansen, the bill's prime sponsor, called the legislation a historic achievement after nearly four decades of unsuccessful attempts to create a statewide freshwater wetlands program.


&quot;Today is a historic day for Delaware and our 300,000 acres of tidal and nontidal wetlands,&quot; Hansen said. &quot;After 38 years of attempts, we have created the state's first combined wetlands regulatory program that will strengthen protections for these vital resources for generations to come.&quot;


House prime sponsor Rep. Debra Heffernan said the legislation will help preserve wetlands that protect water quality, reduce flooding and support Delaware's economy and ecosystems.


Senate Bill 9 also directs DNREC to develop regulations that protect exceptional wetlands, reduce duplicative regulations and ensure there is no net loss of wetland acreage or function. The law includes exemptions for certain agricultural activities, conservation practices, hunting, fishing, mosquito control and several other specified uses while establishing permitting timelines intended to provide greater certainty for property owners and developers.


The legislation was developed through a collaborative process involving a broad coalition of stakeholders, including the Delaware Farm Bureau, Delaware Home Builders Association, Delaware Association of Realtors, Sierra Club, Ducks Unlimited, Delaware Nature Society, The Nature Conservancy and other organizations.


Gov. Meyer signed the bill alongside DNREC officials, legislative sponsors and representatives from Delaware's agricultural, business and environmental communities, marking the culmination of decades of work to create a statewide freshwater wetlands protection program that seeks to balance environmental conservation with responsible growth.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Thu, 23 Jul 2026 11:49:00 -0400</pubDate>
</item>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.bestofbethany.com/blog/south-bethany-and-fenwick-island-implement-grab-the-flag-initiative/</guid>
    <link>https://www.bestofbethany.com/blog/south-bethany-and-fenwick-island-implement-grab-the-flag-initiative/</link>
        <author>leslie@lesliekopp.com (Leslie Kopp)</author>
        <title>South Bethany and Fenwick Island Implement &quot;Grab the Flag&quot; Initiative</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Photo credit to: Coastal Point


Visitors and residents walking along Coastal Highway in South Bethany and Fenwick Island will notice a new safety feature at several crosswalks this summer: brightly colored pedestrian crossing flags.


The initiative is designed to make pedestrians more visible to motorists at unsignalized crosswalks, where crossing Route 1 can be particularly challenging during the busy beach season. The simple concept has been used successfully in other communities around the country and is now being adopted by both Delaware beach towns as part of broader efforts to improve pedestrian safety. 


In Fenwick Island, red flags have been installed in bins on both sides of designated crosswalks. Pedestrians are encouraged to take a flag before entering the crosswalk, wave it to attract the attention of approaching drivers, and return it to the collection bin after reaching the opposite side. Town officials hope the additional visual cue will encourage motorists to yield and reduce the risk of accidents. 


Mayor Natalie Magdeburger said the program complements ongoing enforcement efforts by the Fenwick Island Police Department, which continues to ticket speeding drivers, motorists making illegal U-turns, and those who fail to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks. The town has also announced plans for future infrastructure improvements, including flashing pedestrian beacons at unsignalized crossings as part of a sidewalk project currently anticipated for 2028. 


South Bethany has also been evaluating pedestrian safety enhancements through its Bicycle &amp; Pedestrian Safety Committee. Earlier this year, the committee discussed progress on an Orange Flag Pilot Program and public awareness campaign aimed at encouraging residents and visitors to &quot;Grab the Flag&quot; when crossing busy roadways. 


The timing of these efforts comes as Delaware's Quiet Resorts continue to experience heavy seasonal traffic. Thousands of pedestrians cross Coastal Highway daily to access beaches, restaurants, shops, and neighborhoods, creating numerous interactions between vehicles and walkers. Town officials regularly remind visitors to use marked crosswalks, wait until traffic has stopped in both directions before crossing, avoid distractions such as cell phones, and remain alert even when they have the legal right of way. 


While crosswalk flags are intended to increase visibility, they are only one part of a larger pedestrian safety strategy. Officials emphasize that Delaware law requires drivers to yield to pedestrians in marked crosswalks, and pedestrians should never assume an approaching vehicle will stop simply because they are in a crosswalk. The flags serve as an added layer of visibility—not a substitute for caution. 


As summer traffic reaches its peak, South Bethany and Fenwick Island hope the new crossing flags will encourage safer habits for both drivers and pedestrians, helping everyone enjoy a safer visit to Delaware's Quiet Resorts.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Mon, 20 Jul 2026 12:18:00 -0400</pubDate>
</item>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.bestofbethany.com/blog/the-53rd-annual-white-marlin-open-returns-to-ocean-city-with-a-new-twist-for-2026/</guid>
    <link>https://www.bestofbethany.com/blog/the-53rd-annual-white-marlin-open-returns-to-ocean-city-with-a-new-twist-for-2026/</link>
        <author>leslie@lesliekopp.com (Leslie Kopp)</author>
        <title>The 53rd Annual White Marlin Open Returns to Ocean City with a New Twist for 2026</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Photo credit: Marlin Mag


Every summer, Ocean City, Maryland becomes the center of the sportfishing world, and 2026 promises to be one of the most exciting years yet. The 53rd Annual White Marlin Open will take place August 3–8, 2026, bringing thousands of anglers, spectators, and fishing enthusiasts together for what is widely known as the world's largest and richest billfish tournament.


This year, tournament organizers have introduced a major change designed to give competitors more flexibility and a better chance to fish favorable conditions offshore. For the first time in tournament history, teams will fish under a new &quot;Fish 3 of 6&quot; format, allowing boats to choose any three fishing days during the six-day tournament window. The additional day was added in response to recent weather challenges and gives crews more options to plan around changing offshore conditions.





The tournament runs from Monday, August 3 through Saturday, August 8, with daily fishing from 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and weigh-ins beginning at 4:00 p.m. at Harbour Island Marina. Teams from across the country—and around the world—will compete for millions of dollars in prize money while targeting white marlin, blue marlin, tuna, wahoo, and other prized offshore species.


Beyond the competition on the water, visitors can experience the excitement of Marlin Fest, the tournament's official beachside celebration held daily at the Ocean City Inlet from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Marlin Fest offers free admission and features live music, food and beverage vendors, merchandise, family-friendly activities, and live-streamed tournament weigh-ins. It's the perfect place for spectators to soak in the atmosphere while watching some of the sport's biggest catches come across the scales.





For many visitors, the daily weigh-ins are the highlight of the week. As tournament boats return to Harbour Island each afternoon, crowds gather to witness dramatic moments that have made the White Marlin Open legendary. With millions of dollars potentially on the line from a single fish, every boat's arrival creates anticipation and excitement.


More than just a fishing tournament, the White Marlin Open has become a signature Ocean City tradition and a major economic driver for the region. Over its five-decade history, the event has awarded more than $113 million in prize money and continues to attract top captains, crews, sponsors, and spectators from around the globe.





Whether you're a serious angler, a casual fishing fan, or simply looking for an unforgettable summer event, the 53rd Annual White Marlin Open offers a front-row seat to world-class offshore competition and the vibrant energy that makes Ocean City one of the East Coast's premier fishing destinations.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Mon, 13 Jul 2026 15:51:00 -0400</pubDate>
</item>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.bestofbethany.com/blog/shifting-market-in-bear-trap-dunes/</guid>
    <link>https://www.bestofbethany.com/blog/shifting-market-in-bear-trap-dunes/</link>
        <author>leslie@lesliekopp.com (Leslie Kopp)</author>
        <title>Shifting Market in Bear Trap Dunes</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 













*Data was derived from the Sussex County MLS. Includes properties sold in Ocean View. May not reflect all activity in the marketplace.









One of the questions we're asked often is what type of market we're in. While we always share what we're seeing firsthand, we also believe in supporting this with market data. That's why twice a year, we analyze absorption rates to measure overall conditions and share those results with you.






By comparing the pace of sales over the past 12 months with the current inventory, we calculate the Months Supply of Inventory—a key indicator of market balance. In our market, about 6 months of inventory is considered balanced. Fewer indicates a seller's market, while more suggests a buyer's market.






If you are considering a sale or transaction, we would love to share how our experience, market knowledge, and approach can help maximize the success of your transaction.






Please give our Bear Trap Expert a call: 


Gail Phelan (302) 233-4909






 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Tue, 07 Jul 2026 10:56:00 -0400</pubDate>
</item>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.bestofbethany.com/blog/bethany-beach-dune-work-update--news/</guid>
    <link>https://www.bestofbethany.com/blog/bethany-beach-dune-work-update--news/</link>
        <author>leslie@lesliekopp.com (Leslie Kopp)</author>
        <title>Bethany Beach Dune Work Update &amp; News </title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Credit to: Coastal Point, Susan Canfora


Photo credit: DNREC


Mayor Ron Calef reported that while recent storms have reduced portions of the dunes, much of that sand has naturally shifted onto the beach and into the surf, helping preserve the shoreline. Public Works and DNREC were recognized for quickly reinstalling accessibility mats and repairing dune crossovers in time for the summer season. Visitors will also notice new seating areas and a durable concrete retaining wall at First and Second Streets.


Nature Center May Reopen This SummerThe Town is working with the Delaware Nature Society on an agreement to operate the Bethany Beach Nature Center. If approved, the organization would oversee staffing and programming, with the goal of reopening the facility later this summer.


Labor Day Celebration Under ConsiderationFollowing the cancellation of the Fire &amp; Ice Festival drone show due to weather, Town officials are exploring a Labor Day weekend drone show and small fireworks display in partnership with the Bethany-Fenwick Area Chamber of Commerce. The event would coincide with Bethany Beach's 125th anniversary celebration.


Public Works Facility PlanningCouncil reviewed an initial concept for a new two-story Public Works building that would replace the existing open storage structure. Additional design and planning discussions are expected in the coming months.


Bicycle &amp; Pedestrian SafetyThe Town's Bicycle &amp; Pedestrian Safety Committee continues to expand its public education efforts with new safety videos focused on both pedestrians and cyclists. Officials reminded residents and visitors to use crosswalk beacons, make eye contact with drivers, wear light-colored clothing, and carry flashlights when walking at night.


Welcoming International StudentsMayor Calef encouraged the community to welcome the international J-1 students who work in Bethany Beach each summer. The Police Department recently hosted a safety seminar for the students, and St. Martha's Episcopal Church organized a community picnic to help them feel at home.


Legislative UpdatesCouncil received updates on several state legislative matters, including:




A proposed Delaware medical school, which could help increase the number of physicians serving Sussex County.


Ongoing legal developments involving offshore wind permitting.


House Bill 363, which would allow municipalities to reduce speed limits on locally owned streets from 25 mph to 20 mph without requiring an engineering study.


Senate Bill 23, addressing affordable housing planning requirements.


House Bill 430, a proposed constitutional amendment that could eventually impact Bethany Beach's municipal voting rules for non-resident property owners.




Public CommentA resident expressed concerns about the weekly Saturday morning demonstrations along Garfield Parkway, citing traffic noise, frequent horn honking, and disruptions to nearby neighborhoods. Town officials explained that while protesters have a constitutional right to assemble on public property, they have asked the group to relocate, but the request was declined. The Town will continue discussions with the group while balancing First Amendment protections with residents' concerns.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Mon, 06 Jul 2026 14:17:00 -0400</pubDate>
</item>
    </channel>
</rss>