Smyrna is a quaint waterfront town with more than 250 years of rich history. It is Delaware's fastest-growing municipality and is currently the fifth largest in the state. Smyrna residents pride themselves on maintaining a small-town feel while embracing new technologies.
Smyrna is a Delaware town, located in the counties of Kent and New Castle. With a population of approximately 10,000 residents, it is one of the fastest-growing municipalities in Delaware. Moving to Smyrna is moving into a piece of American history. The town was founded on the banks of Duck Creek before the American Revolution. Merchant vessels were abundant in the area, with grain and lumber among the main commodities. Today, it sits north of the state capital by about 12 miles. This small town has a welcoming atmosphere, ample green space, and good dining. It's a place where a handshake is remembered, where the door is always open, and where manners matter. Welcome to Smyrna! It's time for you to live it up.
Moving to Smyrna
Before you move to Smyrna, it's best to learn all about the rental market. The favorable renter-occupancy rate may make you think there's no reason to do any preparatory work. But there is! You don't want to end up in a home that has faulty plumbing or poor heating.
Plan Early and Be Flexible
If you are planning to relocate, start searching for an apartment rental in Smyrna early. Smyrna does have a decent inventory of rental apartments to choose from, and many of them are pet-friendly apartments. However, you can increase your opportunities by considering single family homes and townhouses for rent. Detached houses, townhouses, and duplexes account for the majority of housing units in Smyrna. That doesn't mean you can't find studio apartments for rent. It just means that you have more selection with houses and townhouses.
It's Not All Old Homes
You may think that all this history means old homes. That's not true. In fact, a large percentage of the homes were constructed after 2000. You can literally smell the fresh new home scent on some of the units. Anyway, regardless of what you rent, inspect to make sure every appliance works, that plumbing runs smoothly, and that there are no ghosts.
Timing It Correctly
Numerous schools serve Smyrna, and that impacts when residents choose to move. The summer months experience more rental turnover than others. If you can, move to Smyrna at this time as you may be able to locate something quite quickly (within two weeks). The summer is also the best time to find month to month leases.
What You Need
Prepare for your move by getting a credit check and collecting bank statements that show you can afford rent. You also want to get your rental references in order. Most rental units require a security deposit before moving in. Also, be prepared to give one or two months' rent when you sign the contract.
Neighborhoods in Smyrna
Willowwood: A growing community of new home construction. Centrally located to area shopping and amenities. You can enjoy the community pool or get engrossed in a movie at the clubhouse theater.
Historic Smyrna: Located in the center of the city, the district offers historically built homes among a bustling business community with rich historical architecture. The Historic District Review Board works to maintain the charm of the area, by reviewing all potential building alterations.
Eagle View Community: A townhouse community with two and three bedroom homes. The homes offer three spacious stories and some come with garages. It offers sidewalk lined streets and a neighborhood association to maintain the common areas. The annual neighborhood yard sale draws bargain hunters from all of Smyrna.
Apartment hunters, take note: Smyrna has a few complexes worth looking into. Sunnyside Apartments offer one and two-bedroom apartments at an affordable price. You can even get a two bedroom, complete with a den for extra space and a garage to keep your car out of the elements. Heron Run is a newly renovated community, with one and two bedroom units. There is ample parking and laundry facilities are conveniently located on site. There are even playgrounds for the kids to enjoy.
Living in Smyrna
Overall, the majority of Smyrna locals choose to drive. Walking works for a good deal of errands, though. Also, there are two bus lines in town; one goes to Wilmington and the other goes to Dover.
Smyrna prides itself on providing its residents with a small town experience. From eating to museums, you get exactly that. Beginning in June, the opera house turns into a farmers market each Thursday, offering fresh and locally grown fruits and vegetables. Eateries like the Wagon Wheel Family Restaurant and Karibbean Grill will get your taste buds going as well. As a new resident, you should take the time to learn local history. The museums here can educate you. The Biggs Museum of American Art was established in 1993. With various exhibits throughout the year, the museum provides visitors with a collection of fine American artwork. A visit to the Smyrna Museum will provide you with a walk through the town's entire history. The Johnson Victrola Museum is only a short drive down the road in Dover. It is a tribute to Delaware native, Eldridge Reeves Johnson. In 1901, Johnson founded the Victor Talking Machine Company. Lums Pond State Park will satisfy the most avid outdoor enthusiast. It was constructed around the largest freshwater pond in the state. There are campgrounds for your overnight excursions and a boat ramp for enjoyment of the pond. There are hiking and biking trails as well. Other parks, like Mill Creek Parkland and Smyrna Municipal Park, satisfy your need for green space. As you can see, Smyrna, in all facets of life, answers the needs of its residents.