If I’m being honest, Eric and Karen initially felt the community was too far from the trail. That was before we met, and they decided to explore other options. After coming back and seeing just how close The Junction and Breakwater Trail really is, they were completely bought in.Still residing in Florida, they’ve made it clear they’re eager to meet fellow homeowners and attend community events—even when it requires significant effort on their part. I think that speaks volumes about them. They’ve truly embraced the lifestyle and are excited to begin this next chapter in a new community, building connections with everyone who is joining alongside them.
We’re thrilled to watch their Kingfisher come to life and to welcome them at the beach.
Tell us a bit about yourselves and your current situation?
We lived and worked in the Washington D.C. area for many years. We both worked at the US Department of Labor which is where we met. We currently live in South Florida where we moved in 2018. Since then, the summers have gotten longer and hotter and we need a place to go at least for six or seven months.
How did you hear/know about Lewes and the beach?
When we lived in Washington, we spent many vacations in Rehoboth Beach with a group of friends and often traveled to Lewes for meals, shopping and sightseeing. So while we’re not locals, we are quite familiar with the area.
Why did you pick Black Oak as your new home community?
We looked at existing homes east of Coastal Highway and couldn’t find anything that exactly met our needs. When we heard about Black Oak, the decision was made because of the location and the quality, choices and reputation of Schell Brothers. We also like the proximity to the hiking/biking/dog walking trails, the beach, and the Lewes Unleashed Dog Park.
Why did you pick The Kingfisher as your floor plan?
Karen wanted a loft for ‘her’ space and an office for Eric. We also like the configuration of the great room, the dining room and the kitchen. While it would be ideal to have at least one guest bedroom on the main floor, we are getting most of what we want in The Kingfisher.
What do you look forward to the most once you live in your new home?
We are looking forward to living in a quieter area. Fort Lauderdale has become a very large, busy city with the attendant traffic and all the other issues that come with living in a big city. We also look forward to spending more time outdoors without stifling heat and humidity.
“When we heard about Black Oak, the decision was made because of the location and the quality, choices and reputation of Schell Brothers.”
– ERIC & KAREN
Favorite drink / favorite food?
Eric likes wine and an occasional scotch. We both drink Diet Coke and Karen also likes iced tea, coffee and lots of water. We are both addicted to pasta but we also enjoy seafood, Asian food, French food and I guess just a variety of cuisines.
Where are your favorite places to go out and eat at the beach?
Since we have been traveling with our dog lately and don’t have a place to leave her, we have been eating at restaurants that allow dogs in their outdoor areas. We have enjoyed Touch of Italy, Half Full, Irish Eyes and Striper Bites. There are others in Rehoboth Beach that we enjoy.
Any other places/locations/events that you love at the beach and can’t wait to attend or favorite memory from being at the beach?
We love Cape Henlopen State Park and already have our non resident pass. As we said earlier, we enjoy the trails and we particularly like Gordons Pond Beach because it is not crowded and is dog friendly. We look forward to exploring more of the area and discovering all the events we have been hearing about.
How do you feel you use, or your family will use the amenities in the community?
We are both interested in staying fit and will use the gym. Karen will use the pool all summer.
What will your 1st purchase be once you live at the beach and why?
Some of our belongings will remain in Florida for at least awhile so we will need to buy some living room furniture and a bed. I guess the bed will have to be the first purchase although we will have beds in the guest bedrooms.
Surrounded by preserved wetlands and forests, Black Oak offers resort-style amenities, top-rated schools, and quick access to Beebe Hospital. Skip the traffic, soak in the scenery, and enjoy the best of coastal living right at home.
Discover a rare chance to live East of Route 1—just a bike ride from downtown Lewes, beaches, Cape Henlopen State Park, and more. Schedule a visit with Adam!
ADAM PETTENGELL
(302) 228-2719
adam@schellbrothers.com