Our hearts go out to anyone who has been impacted by Coronavirus, COVID-19, whether directly or indirectly. Conditions are continuously changing and the long-term impact on the economy and the real estate market is not yet known. We will do our best to summarize what we are experiencing at the beach, as of today, March 17th.

Since March 1, 2020, 28 properties have gone under contract in the Bethany-Fenwick area. This is up 100% compared to 14 during the same time in 2019. This past weekend, our listings had a combined 25 showing appointments which is down 29% from the 35 during the second weekend of March in 2019. Understandably, a few clients have pulled back due to the uncertainty in the market. In most situations, we feel this is

Here is a list of activities for you and your family to enjoy while still practicing social distancing:

- Go for a bike ride or walk around your neighborhood for some fresh air.
- Plan a family game night with your favorite board game or charades.
- Bring your binoculars and go bird watching.
- Go for a nature walk and create your own scavenger hunt.
- Enjoy a sunset.
- Support a local restaurant and avoid the crowded grocery stores, purchase carry out.
- Pop some popcorn and put on your favorite movie.
- Get rid of those weeds and prepare your garden ready for Spring.
- Plan a time with family or friends to video chat so you can connect even from afar.
- Put out a bird feeder
- Be on the look out for Tulips by following Town of Bethany Beach Horticulture on

While the stock market has shown volatility in recent weeks, the beach real estate market has remained very firm.  Mild winter weather and exceptional interest rates have contributed to strong buyer activity early in the year.

As the chart illustrates, total sales are up 6% to-date when compared to the same time last year and sales volume in dollars (based on list price) is up 18%.   Properties are selling almost a month faster, on average, when compared to 2019.  So far this year, 14 properties listed for $1million+ have gone under contract in the Bethany-Fenwick area.  This is up 43% over the same time last year as demand for homes East of Rt 1 has been notably high.

With the Spring season just around the corner, now is an opportune time to