NEIGHBORS: Simple Gestures

When Roni & Peter Wilityer discovered that Homeowner Appreciation Day was in full swing on their first visit to Peninsula Lakes, they realized it might be a sign of good things to come. In fact, within a week of their visit, a simple gesture was all it took for them to understand how genuine that appreciation truly was.

Having spent many years vacationing in coastal Delaware, Roni and Peter Wilityer knew it would be the perfect setting for their forever home—and they were ready to make the move. Roni, a former ballet dancer, and Peter, a retired financial corporate accountant, had grown to love tackling DIY projects around the house. Now, it was time to design the future they’d imagined.

While considering several communities during 2017, their discussions kept coming back to Peninsula Lakes. Along with having access to a host of resort-style amenities, they were attracted to the possibility of owning a home with a water view. On the day they visited the community, Schell happened to be hosting an event to thank the current homeowners at Peninsula Lakes. Walking into the festivities gave Roni and Peter the unexpected opportunity to meet several residents who warmly welcomed them as if they had already moved in. “It was instantly obvious that people were genuinely proud of their homes, their community, and cared about each other,” Peter remarked.

Despite the good vibes they felt on their first visit, the Wilityers were still unsure about purchasing a home right away, due in part to some health issues that Roni had briefly mentioned to the sales team. A few days later, Roni was surprised to receive flowers, along with a card signed by the salespeople they had met at the model. “They wished me well and told us not to stress about purchasing right away,” Roni said. “To receive such genuine thoughtfulness from Schell employees touched our hearts, and that sealed the deal for us.”

Knowing that they were in good hands with the Schell team and could take the time they needed to navigate the purchase process, Roni and Peter soon decided that Peninsula Lakes would be the site of their new home. The next step was choosing which of the many floor plans would suit their lifestyle. After some deliberation, the couple decided on The Mayberry, due to its functional layout and one-level living. “We especially like the design of the kitchen with its huge center island,” Roni explained. “And having the guest rooms and primary suite on opposite sides of the home works perfectly for us.” In addition to the home’s long list of available options, Peter liked the expansive windows that line the back of the home, ushering in an abundance of light.

With the home decision process behind them, Roni and Peter met with Schell’s design consultant to make selections and bring their vision to life. “We wanted a coastal feel that was light, bright, and airy,” Roni said. “Having a professional there to guide us through the choices made all the difference in helping us achieve that look.”

Once the building process was underway, the couple enjoyed weekly photos and email updates from their project manager. “He really went above and beyond to answer our questions,” said Peter. “Our issues were immediately addressed, so we always knew that our home was in good hands.”

Although they closed on their home in February of 2018, the couple didn’t live there full time until January of the following year. And that’s when another simple gesture went a long way. After they’d lived in the home a few short months, the couple’s beloved dog, Cooper, died unexpectedly. Knowing that Roni and Peter were devastated, the Schell service manager stopped by with a condolence card. “The thing that meant the most to me,” remarked Roni, “is that he spent time talking to us about our sweet dog who, by the way, adored him, too.” A day later, flowers arrived from the sales team, offering their sympathies as well. Peter remarked, “I guess you can see why we are truly grateful to be part of the Schell family.”

Now that they’ve settled into their new home, Roni and Peter have already indulged their DIY spirit by completing a whitewashed shiplap accent wall in their office and a board and batten treatment in the bathroom. When they’re not busy with home projects, the couple can often be found in the great room taking in the gorgeous lake views they always imagined. In addition, they enjoy spending time in the finished basement, where they play pool or ping pong, snuggle up with family and watch TV, or exercise in their workout room. It’s the perfect space for relaxing during visits from their daughter, Megan, and son-inlaw, James, who live in nearby New Castle and son, Ryan, from Pennsylvania.

When asked to describe life at Peninsula Lakes, Roni was quick to answer. “This community is beautiful, welcoming, energetic, and vibrant,” she said. “It truly feels like we are living in a vacation resort. On top of that, our neighbors have huge hearts and are always looking for ways to give back.” Peter explained that the community unites to host food and clothing drives, sponsor needy families, and donate to local charities including the Community Resource Center in Rehoboth Beach. “We have a variety of clubs and a fabulous social committee,” Roni said, mentioning that she enjoys line dancing, the crochet club, and both book clubs in the community. Peter added, “I get together regularly with friends to play pool and socialize at Guys Night Out. We have met so many neighbors who have become dear friends and are now like family to us.”

trails in the area. Roni and Peter are also avid supporters of local theater, frequenting Possum Point Players in Georgetown and Clear Space in Rehoboth. Some favorite date night restaurants include The Cultured Pearl, Agave Mexican Restaurant, Iron Hill Brewery, Plaza Mexico and Semra’s Mediterranean Grill. Most of all, Roni and Peter love daily workouts, biking adventures, and long walks with their pup, a mini Goldendoodle named Maggie. “When we take our dog for a walk, we are sometimes gone for hours because of all the people we meet who love to stop and chat.” As a certified pet therapy dog, Maggie often accompanies the couple to assisted living facilities where they spend quality time visiting with the residents. “Maggie has a genuine way of making people smile,” Roni said. “Their eyes light up as soon as they see her.”

trails in the area. Roni and Peter are also avid supporters of local theater, frequenting Possum Point Players in Georgetown and Clear Space in Rehoboth. Some favorite date night restaurants include The Cultured Pearl, Agave Mexican Restaurant, Iron Hill Brewery, Plaza Mexico and Semra’s Mediterranean Grill. Most of all, Roni and Peter love daily workouts, biking adventures, and long walks with their pup, a mini Goldendoodle named Maggie. “When we take our dog for a walk, we are sometimes gone for hours because of all the people we meet who love to stop and chat.” As a certified pet therapy dog, Maggie often accompanies the couple to assisted living facilities where they spend quality time visiting with the residents. “Maggie has a genuine way of making people smile,” Roni said. “Their eyes light up as soon as they see her.”

A note, a bouquet, a chat, a wave, and even a tail wag. Sometimes simple gestures make all the difference.