County’s home ‘flip’ program marks 100th renovation, sale

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New castle countyNew Castle County’s Neighborhood Stabilization Program is marking a milestone on Monday by celebrating the sale of a 100th home.

The program involves home purchases, major renovations and sales, a practice popularized in the many home “flip” shows on cable networks.

“Homeownership is the accomplishment of a lifetime and a real source of pride for many residents,” County Executive Thomas P. Gordon said. “At the same time, home ownership also helps improve neighborhoods’ maintenance, safety and property values – all important elements in the quality of life.”

The county’s Department of Community Services, led by General Manager Sophia Hanson, is hosting Monday’s celebration at the home Joel and Melissa Hannah are buying a home on New York Avenue in Claymont.

The ceremony will congratulate the Hannah family as well as recognize New Castle County Council, Delaware State Housing Authority and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, along with nonprofit developers who collaborate with the county and support the program.

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The home had been in poor condition and had stood vacant for more than three months before it was acquired last August by the county program.

After its purchase for $130,000, much of the house was gutted. Improvements included bathroom replacement, basement renovation, hardwood floor refinishing, new appliance installation and exterior painting, along with structural and electrical tear-outs. More work was done on plumbing, landscaping, insulation and fencing. The house was on the market for about a month before the Hannahs signed a sale agreement to buy it for $209,900.

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