News
Delaware REALTOR® Week:
Delaware REALTOR® Week is a statewide continuing education event coordinated by the Delaware Association of REALTORS® in collaboration with the Sussex County Association of REALTORS®, Kent County Association of REALTORS®, and the New Castle County Board of REALTORS®. From October 26–28, members can choose from a variety of free continuing education courses offered throughout Delaware. Register for one course or several, and attend classes hosted by any participating local association.
Click on the title of the class listed below to register. View the full schedule at delawarerealtor.com/realtorweek.
Schedule
Monday – October 26
ALL COURSES OFFERED IN PERSON ONLY
| Time | Module | Course Title | Instructor |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8:30–11:30 am | Mod 1 | Understanding DE Agency Law and Fair Housing Issues | Frank Serio |
| 11:45 am–2:45 pm | Mod 6 | Negotiating For Success: Representing Your Client’s Best Interests | Frank Serio |
| 3–6 pm | Mod 5 | Legislative Landmines | Barbara Brodoway |
Tuesday – October 27
ALL COURSES OFFERED IN PERSON ONLY
| Time | Module | Course Title | Instructor |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8:30–11:30 am | Mod 2 | The Code of Ethics at Work | Chrissy Steele |
| 11:45 am–2:45 pm | Mod 4 | Blueprint for a Compliant Brokerage | Frank Serio |
| 3–6 pm | Mod 3 | Listing Agreements and Disclosures | Chrissy Steele |
Wednesday – October 28
ALL COURSES OFFERED IN PERSON ONLY
| Time | Module | Course Title | Instructor |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8:30–11:30 am | Mod 6 | Fish Where the Fish Are | Allison Stine |
| 11:45 am–2:45 pm | Mod 6 | Real Estate Mastery – Designing a Predictable Business | Nitan Soni |
| 3–6 pm | Mod 7 | Real Estate Agency Safety | Bill Spinelli |
Registration
Registration is required for all sessions. Space may be limited for in-person classes.
You may register by clicking on the title of the class in the list above, or by selecting a class/classes of interest from our continuously updated SCAOR CE Course Registration page.
Questions?
For questions about CE requirements or registration, please contact the SCAOR office.
Continue Reading
Stand out in today’s buyer-focused market.
Whether you’re working with first-time homebuyers, seasoned investors, or clients relocating to Delaware, today’s buyers expect knowledgeable representation every step of the way. The Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR®) designation is designed specifically for REALTORS® who want to sharpen their buyer representation skills, strengthen client relationships, and distinguish themselves in an increasingly competitive marketplace.
This comprehensive two-day course fulfills the Delaware Real Estate Commission Continuing Education requirements for Modules 6 & 7 while providing practical strategies you can put to work immediately.
Why Earn the ABR® Designation?
Participants will learn how to:
- Strengthen their buyer representation expertise
- Better serve clients throughout every stage of the home-buying process
- Stay current on buyer trends, issues, and industry best practices
- Gain access to valuable ABR® member resources, publications, and marketing tools
- Build networking and referral opportunities with fellow ABR® designees
Whether you’re new to working with buyers or looking to elevate your existing skills, the ABR® designation demonstrates your commitment to professional excellence and exceptional client service.
Course Information
Dates: September 24–25, 2026
Instructor: Mary Chieppa
Registration Fees
- SCAOR Members: $295
- Non-Members: $325
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
If helping buyers is a significant part of your business, the ABR® designation is an investment that can help you stand apart in the marketplace while enhancing the value you provide to every client.
Continue Reading
New construction isn’t simply a resale home with fresh paint. It comes with its own timelines, builder relationships, inspections, warranties, and buyer expectations—and knowing how to navigate those differences can make all the difference for your clients.
Join us on Wednesday, July 15, from 2:00–4:00 PM for Understanding New Home Construction, a practical class designed to help REALTORS® better understand the building process and confidently guide buyers from foundation to final walk-through.
You’ll learn about:
• Working effectively with builders
• The stages of residential construction
• Common construction issues and workmanship standards
• Inspections and warranties
• The expected life cycles of major home components and appliances
Whether you’re representing buyers considering new construction for the first time or looking to sharpen your expertise, this course offers valuable, real-world knowledge you can put to use immediately.
Please Note
• Open to all SCAOR members
• Required for members pursuing the Sussex County Specialist (SCS) Designation
• No Continuing Education (CE) credit
REGISTER FOR THIS CLASS ONLINE HERE
Continue ReadingMore than 50 SCAOR members gathered on June 24 at the SCAOR office in Georgetown for an informative Lunch & Learn focused on Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), homeowner association considerations, and the important role REALTOR® advocacy plays in shaping housing policy.
Attendees enjoyed a delicious lunch provided by Big Fish Grill before hearing presentations from a distinguished panel of speakers representing local, state, and industry perspectives on the growing conversation surrounding ADUs and common interest communities (CICs).
The program was opened by George Thomasson, 2026 Chair of the SCAOR Political Action Committee and Delaware Association of REALTORS® representative on the National Association of REALTORS® RPAC Major Investment Council. Thomasson welcomed attendees and highlighted the importance of understanding emerging housing issues and the advocacy efforts that help protect property rights while supporting responsible growth.
Presentations were delivered by Wesley Stefanck, CEO of the Delaware Association of REALTORS®, who provided a statewide perspective on ADUs and housing policy trends; Stephanie Moody, CEO of SCAOR, who discussed local considerations and the broader national landscape; and REALTOR® Pat Campbell-White, who serves on the Advisory Council to the Office of the Common Interest Community Ombudsperson and shared insights into common interest communities and the homeowner associations that govern them.
Attendees had the opportunity to ask questions throughout the program, resulting in thoughtful discussion on housing opportunities, community concerns, property rights, and the challenges that can arise within HOA-governed neighborhoods.
The event also featured special guest Heather Zimmaro, Vice Chair of the Major Investor Fundraising Council, who joined via Zoom to discuss the importance of REALTOR® advocacy and the role RPAC plays in supporting public policies that protect private property rights, promote responsible growth, and advance the interests of property owners, communities, and the real estate profession.
The discussion highlighted how issues such as ADUs, common interest communities, housing opportunity, and REALTOR® advocacy are increasingly interconnected as Delaware communities navigate growth and evolving housing needs.
The Lunch & Learn provided members with valuable information on an issue that continues to shape conversations throughout Delaware and across the nation. SCAOR thanks all of the presenters, participants, and attendees who contributed to a highly engaging and informative program.
The time has come to process dues, and we wanted to share a few important reminders about upcoming deadlines and late fee dates. Please review the information below carefully to help ensure your membership remains active and uninterrupted.
If you have any questions, please contact the SCAOR office at 302-855-2300 or email info@scaor.com.
IMPORTANT DATES & DEADLINES
June 25 – Auto-payments will be processed on June 25, and a reminder/invoice will be emailed on June 22.
Please verify that your credit card information is up to date prior to June 22, or your dues may not process correctly, which could result in a late fee.
If you are discontinuing your membership, please notify SCAOR in writing at info@scaor.com no later than June 22.
⏰June 30 – Payments are due.
Please make sure your payment is submitted by this date to avoid late fees.
⏰July 1 – A $25 late fee will be assessed if payment has not been received by June 30.
⏰August 1 – An additional $25 late fee will be assessed if payment has not been received by July 31.
⏰September 1 – If payment has not been received by August 31: A $50 late fee and reinstatement fee will be assessed and Sentrilock services will be terminated
Please note: The unpaid invoice, late fees, and reinstatement fee will remain in your member portal until the next billing cycle begins on May 30, 2027. If you choose to reinstate your Sentrilock Membership at any point during the billing cycle, full payment plus all applicable late and reinstatement fees will still apply.
Continue Reading
The Sussex County Association of REALTORS® (SCAOR) and the Young Professionals Network (YPN) are proud to once again host the Stuff the Bus School Supply Drive, benefiting local students as they prepare for the upcoming school year.
From June 8 through August 14, SCAOR members, affiliates, brokerages, and community supporters are invited to donate much-needed school supplies to help students start the school year with the tools they need to succeed.
All donated items can be dropped off at the SCAOR Office located at 23407 Park Avenue, Georgetown, DE 19947. Financial donations can also be made online here.
A Friendly Competition Between Brokerages
This year’s drive includes a friendly competition among local real estate brokerages.
The competition is designed to encourage participation from offices of all sizes. Final scores will be determined by dividing each brokerage’s total donation weight by its number of agents, creating a level playing field for everyone involved.
Whether you’re part of a large office or a small independent brokerage, every donation can make a difference.
Most Needed Items (Updated Regularly)
This section will be updated throughout the drive as needs change. The following items are currently being collected:
Writing & Art Supplies
- #2 Pencils
- Pens (Blue or Black)
- Colored Pencils
- Crayons
- Markers
- Highlighters
- Glue Sticks
- Dry Erase Markers
Classroom Essentials
- Erasers
- Pencil Sharpeners
- Notebook Paper
- Spiral Notebooks
- Composition Notebooks
- Folders (with pockets)
- Index Cards
- Sticky Notes
Additional Supplies
- Rulers
- Scissors
- Pencil Boxes
- Calculators
Help Us Make a Difference
Every notebook, pencil, folder, and calculator donated helps local students begin the school year better prepared and ready to learn.
SCAOR and YPN thank all participating members, brokerages, affiliates, and community supporters for helping make this effort a success.
Together, we can make a difference for our local students.
Continue Reading
The Sussex County Association of REALTORS® (SCAOR) recently recognized the first two members to earn the prestigious Sussex County Specialist (SCS) Designation, a professional credential developed to help REALTORS® deepen their knowledge of the unique real estate landscape of Sussex County.The Sussex County Association of REALTORS® Affiliate Committee hosted a successful Paws for a Cause Fundraiser on Thursday, May 28, at Crooked Hammock Brewery in Lewes, bringing together REALTORS®, Affiliates, animal lovers, and community supporters for an evening dedicated to helping local dogs find loving homes.
With blue skies, comfortable temperatures, and plenty of sunshine, the weather could not have been better for the outdoor event. A large and enthusiastic crowd gathered throughout the evening to enjoy great food, craft beverages, and the opportunity to support Grass Roots Rescue, a local organization committed to rescuing and rehoming dogs in need.
One of the highlights of the event was the chance to meet several adoptable dogs from Grass Roots Rescue. The four-legged guests quickly became the stars of the evening, charming attendees and serving as a reminder of the important work the organization does throughout the community.
Guests also had the opportunity to participate in raffles featuring an impressive collection of gift baskets and prizes generously donated by SCAOR Affiliate Members and sponsors. The raffle tables were filled with everything from pet-themed baskets to local goods and services, creating plenty of excitement as winning tickets were drawn throughout the evening.
The event was made possible through the support of sponsors including NewFed Mortgage, Clow Coordination Services, and numerous SCAOR Affiliates whose generosity helped make the fundraiser a success.
Most importantly, the evening raised both awareness and funds for Grass Roots Rescue’s mission of providing shelter, care, and second chances to dogs seeking forever homes.
SCAOR extends its sincere thanks to everyone who attended, donated, volunteered, sponsored, and helped spread the word. Together, the community demonstrated that a few hours of fun, fellowship, and compassion can make a meaningful difference in the lives of animals in need.
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
On Monday, May 18, SCAOR will offer two specialized courses that are required for the Sussex County Specialist (SCS) Designation, but open to any REALTOR® looking to strengthen their local knowledge and better serve clients in coastal and rural Delaware markets.
SEPTIC SYSTEMS – WHAT EVERY AGENT SHOULD KNOW
Septic systems can quickly become a point of confusion or concern during a real estate transaction. This presentation is designed to give agents the clarity and confidence needed to navigate septic-related conversations with ease.
In this session, you will learn:
🔧What a septic system is
🔧The different types of septic systems
🔧How septic systems work
🔧What maintenance is required to keep them functioning properly
By the end of this presentation, agents will be equipped to set clear buyer expectations, confidently explain septic system function and care, and understand point-of-sale inspection requirements where applicable. We’ll also walk through a real-world scenario where a septic system became a major topic of concern during a transaction; what caused the red flags, how it impacted the deal, and what could have been done differently.
FACTORY BUILT HOUSING – “WHEEL” ESTATE
This 2-hour course provides agents with practical, up-to-date information on factory-built housing in Delaware, including mobile, manufactured, and modular homes. As these property types continue to play an important role in Sussex County real estate, understanding the unique considerations involved in these transactions is essential.
In this session, topics will include:
🏡 Mobile, manufactured, and modular homes
🏡 Personal property vs. real property
🏡 Conversion of chattel into real estate
🏡 Land leases and lot rent mechanics
🏡 Recent legislative updates affecting factory-built housing
🏡 REALTOR® responsibilities during sales transactions
By the end of the class, agents will have a stronger understanding of the terminology, legal considerations, and transaction mechanics surrounding factory-built housing in Delaware, helping them better guide buyers and sellers through the process with confidence.
While these courses are not approved for CE credit, they provide valuable real-world knowledge that agents regularly encounter in Sussex County transactions.
Both courses are part of the SCS Designation curriculum and are open to all members.
Continue ReadingThe Sussex County Association of REALTORS® (SCAOR) welcomed a strong turnout of local legislators and community leaders for its Annual Legislative Breakfast held on April 30, 2026, at the SCAOR building in Georgetown.
Representatives from a wide range of Sussex County towns and municipalities gathered for a morning of meaningful conversation, collaboration, and information sharing. The event provided a valuable opportunity for attendees to share updates on their communities while engaging in thoughtful dialogue on key issues affecting the region.
Discussions focused on several pressing topics, including workforce housing, responsible development, infrastructure needs, and the unique seasonal challenges faced by Delaware’s coastal communities. The exchange of perspectives highlighted the importance of continued cooperation between industry professionals and public officials to support smart growth and sustainable solutions across Sussex County.
SCAOR remains committed to fostering these important connections and providing a platform for open dialogue that benefits both its members and the communities they serve.
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |