We love working with Kim Starr so much that we used her twice! Buying our beach house and our duplex was a breeze and she is so knowledgeable about the area and friendly to boot. We recommend her to everyone who asks for a realtor in Cape Charles, and we’re forever grateful that she helped us find such wonderful homes.
-Sherry & John (www.YoungHouseLove.com)
BACKGROUND
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in both Rehoboth Beach, Delaware and Cape May, New Jersey. Rehoboth Beach is a coastal city of less than 1,500. However, it is known as “The Nation’s Summer Capital” and the population grows to more than 25,000 in the summer. Cape May is another small coastal city with a population of 3,500, known for its historic Victorian architecture and being one of America’s top 10 beaches. Apparently, I have an affinity for small beach towns since I now live in Cape Charles, VA!
How long have you lived on the Eastern Shore?
I moved to the Eastern Shore in 1983. I originally lived in Onancock, where I bought two houses for $25,000. My dad taught me to buy the worst house… or in this case houses, in the best neighborhood! I moved to Cape Charles in 1996 and opened Chesapeake Properties.
REAL ESTATE
In what year did you begin your career in real estate?
I began my career in real estate in 1983.
What originally got you interested in real estate?
Believe it or not, my interest in real estate began as a child playing Monopoly with my family. My father taught me at a young age that it’s all about location, location, location! I fondly remember my parents purchasing a three-story home in Cape May, NJ, one block from the ocean, for $35,000 back in 1971. They involved me in the home search process, which I enjoyed quite a lot. I also recall encouraging them to purchase the Chalfonte Hotel for $65,000…even at that age, I could smell a bargain. I have a good nose for value… I enjoy working with clients and giving them the benefit of my knowledge and expertise.
What was it like participating in HGTV’s Beachfront Bargain Hunt?
I was extremely nervous at first, as I am definitely more of a behind-the-scenes person. However, I had a lot of friends praying for me and sending positive thoughts my way. Before I knew it, I found I was actually enjoying being on camera much more than I thought I would. The episode hasn’t aired yet… so the jury is still out on how comfortable I look! It helped that the film crew and the family buying the home were terrific to work with.
EASTERN SHORE CONNECTION
What is your favorite outdoor activity on the Eastern Shore?
My all-time favorite outdoor activity is clamming on the seaside, although I haven’t done so in years. I can completely unplug while digging for clams — no cell phones! These days, I enjoy walking on the beach with my dog, Hannah, and picking up sea glass.
What is one hidden gem of the Eastern Shore that you wish more people knew about?
For me, an absolute hidden gem of the Eastern Shore is the afterglow of the sunsets on the Cape Charles Beach. Everyone leaves the beach en masse as soon as the sun sets… they miss the best part! Oh, and the skimmers (a tern-like seabird)…I love watching them. They put a smile on my face.
Beach or boat – if you had to pick one, which would it be and why?
I prefer the beach because I can walk out my door and be there in two minutes – that’s a definite advantage of living in Cape Charles! There’s no better way to ground myself than to feel the sand under my feet, while hearing waves lapping against the shore. I love the silvery tones on the water as light seems to dance on it.
PERSONAL
How long have you lived in your current home?
I just moved in to my perfect beach cottage six weeks ago! I plan on staying in this one quite a while.
How do you relax after a hard day of work?
I relax after work by going on a long walk around Cape Charles, ending on the beach to watch the sunset.
Where do you usually go (or what do you do) when you have time off?
I love to go skiing. I went with my family as a young teen, and have been addicted to it ever since. I prefer skiing out West… no ice! However, I’ve had lots of fun at Snowshoe, Mt. Snow, and Stratton. I even took my office skiing back in the early 2000s to Smuggler’s Notch. It’s a great group activity… the stories at the end of the day with friends and family are priceless!
CONTACT INFO
Kim Starr
757-635-0711
kim@chesapeakeproperties.com