REHOBOTH BEACH, Del.- He is one man who says he has a plan for an entire nation. Yet, there is a city that will appreciate the benefits from his election.
Joe Biden has a house in Rehoboth Beach that he purchased in 2017. He is known for his many visits to Browseabout Books on Rehoboth Avenue. The likely future commander in chief has called Rehoboth his summer home.
For the local economy, this is expected to be a boost particularly for a real estate market that is low on inventory, but remains busy despite the pandemic. Bryce Lingo says sales have been robust with one of the best rental years in recent memory. As if Rehoboth was not desirable enough, hearing Biden's name will encourage people to visit and consider living there.
"They are quite an asset to Rehoboth and the impact on the real estate market values, it certainly couldn't hurt," Lingo said. "But he will not be a new fixture in this town."
The Rehoboth-Dewey Chamber of Commerce says that there have been presidents who have visited in the past, but the city has never had a president with a home in Rehoboth Beach. While this will be a unique situation, Chamber of Commerce President/CEO Carol Everhart projects that Biden's impact will be positive for local businesses.
"Increased visitation means increased economic impact," Everhart said. "So, if only 1,000 visitors came, it would create $200,000 in additional economic impact. So, it's a wonderful opportunity."
There is no questioning the desire to visit Rehoboth Beach is large and only more people are looking to make it their summer home as Biden did.