New Year New Home Cheer

Happy New Year to all our Lancaster Locals! May this year bring you joy, happiness and exciting times! If you have been debating buying a new home or have been wanting to move for some time now but do not know where to start? Look no further, I have compiled a helpful chart of must do’s and tips for starting the moving process. 

  1. Let’s make a plan– you are ready to list your house and move first things first is making a plan with your family. 
  2. Find a realtor agent you mesh well with– it is important to find a realtor that you can relate to, one that knows the area better than anyone else

Before continuing through the moving list I want to be sure to touch on the benefits of using a realtor when you are looking to sell or buy a home. There are many ways you can benefit from hiring a realtor and specifically it is their expertise. Expertise in finances, area, location, community, regulations, rules and more. A realtor is a licensed professional that can help guide individuals purchase, sell or rent a property. They advise their clients on the market, give guidance on how to sell their house and assist in many other ways. If you have been considering using a realtor contact me today I would be happy to talk more about my role and how I can help you! Back to our moving list…

  1. Create a timeline– it is important to create a timeline and stick to it, especially if your house has sold and you need to move out by a certain date.
  2. Set up a moving budget– by setting a moving budget you will be sure to not waste money or spend money you were not expecting to spend.
  3. I suggest you check out our declutter blog-this blog will give you some ideas for going through everything in your home, moving can be daunting but with time and focus you can really make a dent in your project of going through your things. Make separations of what is going to the new house, what is garbage and what you will donate. 
  4. Schedule-schedule times to go through your stuff, to pack, to move your things, and to donate your things. Setting up a schedule that sets aside days or times is key!
  5. Gather– start collecting supplies you will need to help you move. This can be boxes, string, tape, bubble wrap or newspapers. Knowing you will be or are planning moving you can start to collect materials or ask those you know to start saving their boxes. This is a great way to be sustainable and save time when it comes time to pack and you don’t have to worry about scrambling to get the materials.
  6. Stress less– look at and remind yourself of the bigger picture. Moving can be very stressful and daunting. It is a lot at once and at times can be a lot in a short amount of time. It is important to remind yourself of what the outcome is, your forever home! I suggest listening to music, or asking for your friends or family to come over and help pack while ordering take out! It is a great way to catch up, get some extra hands and enjoy each other’s company at times you’ll feel like it is more of a hang out and not stressing over the work.
  7. Change- Be sure you take time to change your address with all your subscriptions, bills, credit cards, jobs are aware & family is aware. Share your new address with everyone who needs it and make changes so you don’t miss bills. Take time to change your cable, wifi, license, doctors, school and phones to the new address too.
  8. Organize- Keep your boxes and bags organized during the move. It is important everything is labeled and you know where everything is going or who is taking what. You do not want to misplace any important medical documents or other personal and financial information that you need no matter where you live!

It is the day officially it is your moving day…what do you need to do?

  • Arrange for help if you have children, pets or need extra hands for the move
  • If you hired movers be sure you have cash to tip all those who helped
  • If you have friends and family helping be sure to place a takeout order to the new home so you all can eat after a hards day of work
  • Be sure to do a final clean of your old property
  • Get rid of all trash
  • Do one last walk through of the house (connect with your realtor of all last minute things you need to get done)
  • Set the thermostat to the correct temperature
  • Lower the shades or blinds
  • Lock all doors and windows
  • Leave a nice note or treat for the new homeowners 🙂 

It is time to settle in, how do you get started?

  1. First and foremost do a first go around of cleaning and a walk through of the house (with any questions that could come up reach out to your realtor for advice)
  2. Unpack the essentials first all things that are necessary for the first few days of being in your new home
  3. Plan each room-walk through the house to see what each room will be for you. Where is the den or your dining room, who gets what bedroom? 
  4. Go room by room starting with the kitchen first, setting up all your appliances and cupboards
  5. The second room or rooms to tackle are the bedrooms setting up your closets, your furniture and organizing your closets- each person should unpack their own room to truly make it their own space
  6. After the bedrooms are done the bathrooms should be the next room you start to unpack and fully stock with all necessities
  7. Do not feel pressured to rush-take time ordering new appliances or furniture should you need and enjoy the space you now get to be in every day. Take time to truly make it your space a place that meets your needs-an office, outdoor dining, cozy rooms whatever it may be! 

As we enter 2021 the year is ours with endless possibilities and opportunities. Have you been debating moving, selling your home or finding a new piece of property? Why not take that chance in 2021 and start the process…New Year New Home…Let’s Cheer! Mary Sue and Derek are both available to be the realtor to get you to the spot where you will enjoy the rest of your 2021 and wonderful years to come! 

 Contact Mary Sue Wolf to look at homes and properties within wonderful Lancaster County, as a realtor she can provide you with tips and tricks to moving and finding your forever home.  You will love it here!

For more information on wonderful homes like 679 Goose Neck Drive call Mary Sue at 717-333-9653 or visit her website at www.WolfandWebb.com

Support Local

As the days get colder and we are looking for ways to help others it is important to stay informed on what is open in our area. With restrictions and guidelines changing local businesses may have to close or change the way they are doing things. This list of businesses can help you find places to support during these uncertain times. It is important to note this list does not have all the restaurants and businesses that are open so be sure to check in with your favorite spots to see if and how you can help them!

http://palockdown.com

Lancaster Country Club

Your own Piece of Paradise!

Golf, pool, tennis, fine dining and more: Lancaster Country Club is the best place to spend your weekends. This prestigious private club is full of wonderful amenities that it has something for everyone. Located at 1466 New Holland Pike, Lancaster PA 17601 it is the perfect location to take in the trees and perfect terrain for a round of golf. The country club was started in 1900, originally a 9-hole course near Lancaster Catholic High School. Thirteen years after opening, the country club moved to its current location on New Holland Pike where a 9-hole course was created along with tennis courts. Over the next 80 years, the club purchased land to create an 18-hole course and an additional 9-hole Highlands Course due to such high demand in membership. In 1929 the club added a swimming pool to add to the amenities for members to enjoy. The rich history of the club goes deeper than the amenities and the work done on the grounds and clubhouse; the Lancaster Country Club has hosted many well known golf tournaments of the past 120 years including the Armstrong World Invitational in 1974 and the Women’s U.S. Open Championship in 2015. If you are passionate about golf you will notice that professional golfers, celebrities and athletes have had the opportunity to enjoy this beautiful course! As the Lancaster Country Club continues to update and provide for their members, the history of the club is the perfect example of Lancaster County and the wonderful experiences you can enjoy regularly. To follow their changes be sure to look at the defining moment on their website as they continue to be prestigious and innovative. What’s coming within the next year to two years is going to be remarkable!

Lancaster Country Club’s course was designed by William S. Flynn, one of the most prominent golf course architects in the 20th century. He designed clubs like Cherry Hills, Merion Golf Club, Shinnecock Hills and so many more! William S. Flynn is well known for using the natural terrain to create landscapes that are strong in competition, making golfers work all sides of the art of golf from short and long games as well as strategy while emulating the beauty. You can find a plaque in his honor at the first tee. Though Flynn designed the course, it is important to note that course restoration has occurred ensuring that the course is well maintained and continues to be a joy for golfers. There are three parts to the course: Meadowcreek is the first 9-holes of the round(1-9), Dogwood is the final 9-holes (10-18) and Highlands another set of 9-holes (1-9). This gives golfers looking to play a full 18-holes or 9-holes multiple options. The dress code for the golf course is set for men and women but no golfers are permitted to wear denim jeans, cargo shorts, athletic shorts, or sweats. Golf shoes are required for playing.

If you are not a golfer, don’t worry! Lancaster Country Club has many other amenities to enjoy such as tennis. The Tennis pavilion was rebuilt in 2007 to accommodate the needs and wants of members such as adding a lounge, locker rooms, a pro shop and wonderful views to enjoy the match. There are 3 Har-Tru courts. Har-Tru courts are clay courts that have playing surfaces created by unbound mineral aggregate, shale, brick or crushed stone. These courts are outside and are the world’s leading clay court surfaces. The other 6 courts are hard courts indoors allowing for year round tennis. The club started providing indoor tennis in 2003, making the tennis facility a total of 9 courts, some outside behind the clubhouse with a beautiful view of the river and others perfect for the winter months! Paddle tennis is also available at the country club. They offer 3 courts to enjoy this outdoor sport. Paddle tennis was adapted from tennis. The differences are that the court is smaller, the net is lower, there are no double lanes and you play with a solid hard paddle as well as a depressurized tennis ball. Paddle tennis has similar play to tennis but is a great alternative should you want to try something new! The pool is a mix of a baby pool and a competition-size pool. Surrounded by lounge chairs and a snack bar, the pool is a great way to spend your summer months with friends or family. It is the perfect way to relax whether your hope is to enjoy a nice book in the sun or cool off with a few laps.

Lancaster Country Club does not stop there. The staff also provides Junior Programming for the children in your family as well, truly making the country club a place for everyone to enjoy. There are multiple ways for your children to get involved with the club while building new skills and building lifelong friendships. In the summer months they can join the swim team, attend summer camp, junior golf or one of the many children oriented events. The club offers Friday nights at the pool and each one is themed. Plus, there are father daughter dances, parties, fests, cooking classes and private lessons. Your children will be able to enjoy the Country Club just as much as you while being able to learn life long skills and having fun with others attending programs. Lancaster Country Club truly is the place for family enjoyment!

Lancaster Country Club offers amenities for everyone including golf, swimming, paddle tennis, and being able to play tennis in the winter with their indoor courts. The country club staff work to provide an enjoyable experience for all members and their guests year round. One way they ensure this is through hosting annual social events and activities. A few favorites are the Independence Day Celebration, and the Christmas Party. The events hosted by the club are a great way to build annual traditions with your family and have a day or evening full of laughter, creating wonderful memories together. As a member, you also have the ability to host your own special event. This gives you the ability to host major milestones in your family’s life surrounded by your loved ones without worrying about details. The Director of Catering and Events ensures that your experience is everything you hoped for. While you have the opportunity to enjoy annual events or host your own, the country club has superb options and locations for dining regularly from casual dining, quick dining and elegant dining. The menu is always enjoyable and there is something for each member of the family to enjoy. The culinary team at the country club is magnificent!

Does this sound like a place you would like to enjoy with your friends and family? The benefits of membership continue to be some of the best. To learn more about membership amenities or ask about membership, visit the Lancaster Country Club website. You will be hooked!

A weekend in the life of Lancaster Country Club History…new renovations, history of hosting elite golfers, golf, tennis, pool, dining, activities for the whole family. Does it make you want to be a little closer to the Country Club?

Contact Mary Sue Wolf to look at homes and properties that emulate the history, beautiful landscapes, and your own piece of paradise at Lancaster Country Club. You will love it here!

For more information on wonderful homes like: 70 Eshelman Road, Lancaster PA 17601 overlooking the 13th-hole fareway call Mary Sue at 717-333-9653 or visit her website at WolfandWebb.com

Trails of Fun!

Have you ever been for a bike ride, with your friends, family or on your own? Lancaster has wonderful trails across the county where you can see the leaves changing colors, ride through scenic routes and take in the terrain. Enjoy the peace of waterways, preserved nature lands, majestic overlooks of the river and the beauty of the landscape.

Northwest Lancaster County River Trail is one of my favorites. This is a trail created in 2003 where you can bike, walk or run that is 14 miles long following the Pennsylvania Mainline Canal. Created over more than 20 years ago this trail is a great example of the prosperous community all of the boroughs within Lancaster County emulate. This is a great trail to see some history within Northwestern Lancaster County. The canal era started in the late 1700’s within Pennsylvania to move people plus materials and to improve water transport within the state from Philadelphia and Pittsburgh. Miles of different canals along the state range from 10 miles to over 100 miles long! When riding along the Northwest Lancaster County River Trail you will see parts of the Pennsylvania Mainline Canal including original towpaths and parts of the quarry at Billmeyer, it’s like a ride through some history! You can start the trail at multiple locations like at Koser Park but if you start the trail by Columbia River Park there are boats, kayaks, bike rentals, shuttle services, picnic areas and historical markers for educational information about the local community, terrain and culture over the years.

A few must sees during your time on the Northwest River Trail:

  • Chickies Rock County Park- you get to go through Point Rock tunnel which is an abandoned railroad path cut through rock!
  • White Cliffs of Conoy- just minutes off the trail and truly breathtaking!
  • Marietta- a borough within Lancaster County full of historic buildings to wander around and learn about!
  • Conoy- a township within Lancaster County, when you get to this point of the trail you will get to go under the Shocks Mill Railroad Bridge!

While the trail is 14 miles long you do not need to do the whole thing in one day. Consider breaking up the trail along multiple weekends or months giving you the opportunity to absorb and soak in all the beauty within the Northwest Lancaster County River Trail. The trail is continuing to be added to so consider using the trail map on their website to map out your outdoor adventure, they are currently working to expand the trail another 4.5 miles.

 A few things to consider before you take on the trail for the day: the trail is open year round conditions permitting from sunrise until sunset. If you want to bring your family dog on the trail be sure you have them on a leash and clean up after them as well as yourselves. This trail is a carry out trail, there are great places to enjoy lunch or a snack across the trail so be sure to bring a bag to collect your trash. The trail is ADA accessible, wheelchairs and other power-driven mobility devices are permitted. There are sections of this trail that go over bridges, roads, and railways that are active so cross with caution and be aware of your surroundings.

Packing Suggestions:

  • Windbreaker/Sweatshirt if you are going in the colder months
  • Sunscreen
  • Hat and sunglasses
  • Lunch or snacks (though there are great places right off the trial where you can stop off and enjoy a new restaurant for lunch)
  • Plenty of water 
  • Small first aid kit, if you are trying out biking for the first time or just taking a leisure walk this can always come in handy for yourself or someone you may pass on the trail
  • Map of the trail 
  • Your phone fully charged
  • Gator or mask 

If you enjoy the trail along the river consider checking out one of the many water trails by boat, there is recreational fishing, boat marinas and more. Going by boat is another wonderful way to see the beauty of the river. If you are planning to go by a rented boat or bike be sure to look up the hours of the Columbia Crossing River Trail Center, though the trails are open year round the trail center has set visiting hours. 

Lancaster is full of great trails, places to walk, hike and bike. Another gem within Lancaster County is the Enola Low Grade Trail . This trail is off of the Pennsylvania Railroad and over 28 miles long! While on this trail you will see beautiful scenery, parts of the river, bridges and more. To reach the start of the trail you will have to go to Manor Township and you can find parking at Turkey Hill Nature Preserve. If you decide to take the day and hike this trail be sure to bring a backpack with water, snacks and sunscreen! You may recognize this trail as Atglen-Susquehanna Trail, this was the name it used to be called. While the trail is in Lancaster County it is also in Chester County. It goes through many townships!

After a day outside on the water or on land you will have experienced stunning landscapes and plenty of wildlife. One of my favorite things to do after time on the trail is for my family and I to share fun memories, laughs, and favorite parts over dinner. It is the best way to end the day! While the Northwest Lancaster County River Trail is one of my favorites it is not the only trail in Lancaster County you should check out, there is an abundance of trails to check out and experience: Conewago Recreation Trail, Conestoga Greenway Trail, Lancaster Junction Recreation Trail, Enola Low Grade Rail Trail and Turkey Hill Trail & Natural Preserve, these are a few more trails that I really enjoy on nice days. Getting outside and walking, hiking or biking on trails is a great way to get active and mix up your day, Susquehanna River Lands gives great information on a handful of trails and all the ways to enjoy the outdoors within Lancaster! 

Whether you have been an avid biker, leisure biker, or want to try something new, the trails across Lancaster County will provide you a peaceful afternoon and great exercise. If biking isn’t for you the River Trail is great for hiking, walking, or running too especially since it is smooth, flat and paved. Consider trying one of the trails out during this upcoming beautiful weekend!

A day in the beauty of Lancaster’s outdoors making you think of moving to the County? Contact Mary Sue Wolf to look at homes and properties that are immersed within the rich history, beauty, and prosperous community. You will love it here!

For more information on wonderful homes like: 115 Market Street, Bainbridge PA 17502 just minutes off of the Northwest Lancaster County River Trail as well as those beautiful White Cliffs.  Call Mary Sue at 717-333-9653 or visit her website at WolfandWebb.com

Fall in Love with Lancaster

Fall in love with Lancaster County’s rich history, local produce, and charm! As summer comes to an end and we enter a new season many people may be on the lookout for fun outdoor activities to get into the festive spirit. With the changing colors and colder weather finding places to see all the fall harvest can put a smile on anyone’s face. Located on an Amish Farm, Stoltzfus Gourd and Pumpkin Farm is one of the hidden fall gems in Lancaster County. The perfect location for picking out your fall decorations, with a variety of pumpkins, corn, mums, gourds, and more there is something for everyone! The farm provides individuals and families the opportunity to explore all the different kinds of pumpkins and gourds that can be created; size, shape and color. This is a great stop for the family before carving pumpkins, or to gather materials to make your own fall decor. With many years of being run, Stoltzfus is the perfect example of a place that amplifies a sense of supporting the local community, traditions, and the beauty of Lancaster. Stoltzfus is family owned and operated, located at 1151 Landisville Road, Manheim Pennsylvania, 17545 this is a roadside market you won’t want to miss! 

Hoping to continue your day of fall activities after collecting fall decor? Look no further than Corn Cob Acres for an afternoon of fun! This farm has over 50 different activities for the whole family to enjoy from hayrides, live shows, games, farm animals, photo spots, corn field trails and more you could enjoy your whole day outside with one another laughing and having fun. Each area of activities is a different theme; Farmland Area, Pumpkin Ally, Pasture Playland, Wild West Area, Barnyard, and Hidden Acres. Within each of these themed areas there are multiple attractions, activities and games to participate in. After spending time at all the different attractions Corn Cob Acres is a great spot to enjoy a meal with one another from pizza, burgers, pulled pork sandwiches to Auntie Anne’s pretzels everyone is able to meet their craving. The Farmhouse Grill is full of tasty meals and there is space around the farm to enjoy lunch with one another.

 A few things to consider when you are at Corn Cob Acres are participating in the other activities available at an additional cost from the ticket; Gem Mining, Pumpkin picking with painting, a Corn Cannon Blaster,, flying squirrel bungee trampolines and the souvenir shop to remember your day! After a day full of fun your older children or you and your friends might want to come back to Corn Cob Acres to experience the Field of Screams, a haunted attraction with a hayride, woods, and two haunted houses. The Field of Screams happens at night and this is a great way for you to get your Halloween scares in. If you enjoy Corn Cob Acres consider renting a party space out, each of the two spaces come with different amenities but both are great opportunities to have a birthday celebration or fall outing with friends. 

With updates and changes Corn Cob Acres continues to offer new activities to the individuals and families who come to enjoy the fun! This year they have a new 42’ corn bin full of shelled corn for children to play with.  With so much to do, guests can map out their day to ensure they hit all the attractions they are hoping for or consider buying a seasonal pass, giving unlimited access throughout the fall. Be sure to check out their special events calendar for this year. You won’t want to miss trick-or-treating, magic shows, or a chance to meet Phillie Phanatic.

Corn Cob Acres is active within the local community as well, they have opportunities for field trips for students to come and enjoy the acres while learning about how we cultivate pumpkins, pollination and more. This is a great way for the local community to have their students engage in hands-on learning outside of the classroom. Not only are they involved with education but Corn Cob Acres actively helps benefit many local charities and non-profits giving to the community around them, emphasizing the importance of helping those around you, and emulating the sense of community that has been built within Lancaster County. 

Corn Cob Acres is another great example of tradition within Lancaster County, the owners of the farm created the Field of Screams in 1993 and throughout the years have continued to add to the fall fun from creating a non-scary hayride for children, Little Screamers’ Hayride. The owners have done an incredible job at making this farm a place for everyone to make memories, laugh, and enjoy all that Lancaster has to offer during the fall. 

The farm is open every weekend Friday through Sunday until the first of November. They are open 10am-5pm every Friday and Saturday, and 11am-5pm on Sundays. Located at 191 College Avenue, Mountville Pennsylvania 17554 it is a must do for your fall family fun.  Be sure to purchase your tickets online for unlimited access to all they have to offer. If you join their mailing list you are able to potentially receive exclusive coupons to enjoy! Corn Cob Acres is taking all the proper precautions to ensure guests are safe during these uncertain times, to learn more about all they are doing check on their website at corncobacres.com/covid-19 as they continue to revise and change their protocol when needed. 

As we enter into the season of Fall look no further than Lancaster County to see the seasons change and enjoy time with loved ones. There are activities for the whole family to enjoy across the county with outdoor spaces, food, decorations, and more these are just a few of the ones I have enjoyed over the years with my family and friends. The rich sense of community within Lancaster can be felt by so many and fall is one of the best ways to jump in and experience it for yourself!

If you are thinking about making the move to Lancaster, there are many outstanding locations to choose. Beautiful terrain, rich history and wonderful communities. Contact Mary Sue Wolf to look at homes or properties today! 

For more information on wonderful homes like: 605 Bent Creek Drive, Lititz Pennsylvania take note that Bent Creek is the only gated community in Lancaster County, a great amenity for added safety.

Call Mary Sue at 717-333-9653 or visit her website at WolfandWebb.com