WHY YOU SHOULD CONSIDER SELLING YOUR HOME NOW (conclusion)

As mentioned in part two of our previous blog, "why you should consider selling your home now", young professionals and empty nesters, seek out housing near mass transit and short commutes, as high priorities. That explains the strength of certain towns in Hudson County, where the commute to Manhattan is quick and easy. Example; 93% of the sales there in 2013, were condos and townhouses, including a penthouse condo in the Hudson Waterfront Tower in Jersey City, which sold for a record setting, $2.8 million, in October.

Of course, not all of New Jersey is riding the same wave. Superstorm Sandy's arrival in October 2012, depressed much of the Shore market, particularly in hard hit sections of Monmouth and Ocean Counties. Mantoloking has recently staggered under as much as 18 months of inventory; in Loveladies, it's 24 months, although the situation is starting to ease, as buyers step up to snag bargains.

New Jersey's four Southernmost counties-Cumberland, Salem, Atlantic and Cape May-are still in the grip of a foreclosure crisis that is actually growing worse, even as other parts of the state, and even more so, the nation...get ready to kiss the foreclosure problem good-bye. Other nightmares could be waiting in the wings. Proposed federal tax reforms could eliminate all second-home, income tax credits. (That could finish off the Shore market)

These dark clouds could very possibly provide more reasons to sell soon. As long as nothing crazy happens to the economy, things should continue to look up. While it may appear to be overly optimistic, in the current real estate market, it is the prevailing wisdom.

If you have been putting off plans to sell your home, NOW, may be the time to re-consider your decision. Call us for a complimentary market analysis, no obligation.

For all your real estate and insurance needs, contact, "the new start in town" LEGACY REALTY GROUP, Edison, NJ, 732.744.0400.  

WHY YOU SHOULD CONSIDER SELLING YOUR HOME NOW, (part two):

In New Jersey, sales volume over the past 2 years, increased by an
amazing 43% over the previous 2 years. In the hottest regional markets
within Bergen, Hudson, Middlesex, and Essex Counties, homes are being
sold for full asking price and above, with buyers stacked up to buy.
In the Suburban communities, the most in-demand homes tend to be in
the most highly regarded school districts. Those without children are
a growing breed of buyers. With both young professionals and empty
nesters, a reasonable proximity to mass transit and a short commute,
are high priorities. One of the latest demographic reports says that
65% of households in New Jersey, have no children under the age of 18.

No matter where you are located in New Jersey, there are some
inexpensive and common sense steps to take to create the greatest
desirability for your home. Keep in mind, buyers want to walk in and
be able to say, "this house is ready to live in". Buyers don't want to
take on a project, so sellers should deal with them ahead of time.

CURB APPEAL:

If you look at your house from across the street, does it look
inviting? Fresh paint and neat landscaping are essential. Damaged
sidewalks and steps should be repaired. If the outside is well kept,
it sends a message that the inside is well cared for.

INSIDE:

Repair broken floor boards & cracked tiles, and replace missing
cabinet hardware. At the very least, make sure that paint isn't
chipping and tile grout is clean.

DE-CLUTTERING AND DE-PERSONALIZING:

Remove extra furniture pieces, thin out book shelves and store the
knick- knacks. Art work should be kept to a minimum and family photos
along with personal mementoes should be packed away. If your budget
allows, upgrading the kitchen and bathroom always pays off.

If you are thinking about selling your home, contact us, no
obligation, for more detailed information and suggestions about what
you will need to do......if anything, to generate the most activity
and highest possible price.

For all your real estate and insurance needs and more helpful hints,
contact, LEGACY REALTY GROUP, Edison, New Jersey. 732.744.0400.

WHY YOU SHOULD CONSIDER SELLING YOUR HOME NOW !!!!!

Buyers are active, mortgage interest rates are still at an all time low and inventory is low. So what are you waiting for? Experts say there may be no better time than NOW, to post that for-sale sign.

***

Experts concur that New Jersey real estate is recovering strongly. After years of crisis and stagnation, sales volume is sharply up, and prices are rising. In 2013, the median home sales price rose by a projected 5% statewide, and the increase occurred despite Superstorm Sandy, which dragged down selling prices in devastated Shore communities by as much as 7% in 2013. What's more, the 4th quarter of 2013 was on track to be the most active sales period in the state since 2007. In October alone, home sales were up 19% compared to October 2012, and this despite the 16 day government shutdown that month.

North Jersey>

The hottest markets this past year, generally have been desirable suburban towns in North Jersey, like Chatham, Glen Ridge, and West Caldwell, which saw selling prices for homes gain an average of 8% over the past 12 months.

Central Jersey>

As a whole, Central Jersey has not been as active as North Jersey, but it has picked up and gotten better over the past 2 years. Some Central Jersey towns, including Metuchen, Milltown and Plainsboro, did show a healthy 7% average price gain in 2013.

South Jersey>

The marketplace is slowest in South Jersey, where unemployment has consistently run higher than the state average, which is itself, higher than the National average. However, even in the southern counties, certain real estate pockets such as, rural Gloucester County and the Moorestown area, a Burlington County suburb, about 15 miles East of Philadelphia, prices are heating up.

As hot as the market has become, some potential sellers are still dragging their feet, hoping to take further advantage of rising prices. Currently, however, New Jersey is in a "window of opportunity". When the market was down just a few years ago, many thought it was inconceivable that price wars would ever return, but that is exactly what is happening in quite a few towns around the state.

*** data excerpted from New Jersey Monthly Magazine.

For all your real estate and insurance needs, and an expert market analysis on the value of your home today, contact LEGACY REALTY GROUP, EDISON, N.J. 732.744.0400.

STEADY PROGRESS IN  NEW JERSEY REAL ESTATE MARKET, PROJECTS A PROMISING 2014:

EDISON: The November housing report from the NJ Association of Realtors, indicates that the market is continuing to recover steadily. The market showed a modest increase in both the median sale price and the closed sales over November, 2012, while continuing to show a decrease in days on the market and total available inventory.

According to the November report, the total number of homes for sale is down from last year, while at the same time showing an increase in new listings, with nearly 10,000 new homes added in November. Along with that, pending sales increased to 26%, projecting a large number of closed sales to appear in the upcoming months. In the single family home market, there has been nearly a 28% increase in homes listed for sale and a 30% increase in pending sales. Closed sales increased and days on the market dropped. Additionally, the total number of homes for sale was down from last year and the median sales price dropped to $295,000.

The town house/condo market, likewise mirrored these trends, with an increase in listings and an increase in pending sales. Closed sales showed a modest increase, and days on the market dropped. Similarly, the number of properties in this category was down and the median sale price rose nearly 3% to $252,000.

As demonstrated, housing markets are very localized, but there have been significant improvements in many markets in New Jersey. Due to lower inventory, affordable housing, and mortgage interest rates still near historic lows, now is a good time to re-think your "put on hold" plans to sell and/or buy.

For all your Real Estate and Insurance needs and helpful hints, contact "the new star in town", LEGACY REALTY GROUP, EDISON, NJ. 732.744.0400

ESSENTIAL WINTER DRIVING TIPS !!!!!

Helpful, and important precautions, for safe Winter driving.

MAKE SURE YOU AND YOUR CAR ARE PROPERLY EQUIPPED:
.
> Be sure that your car has ample anti-freeze and plenty of windshield washer fluid.
> Verify that your tires are properly inflated.
> Have your battery tested for strength.
> Equip your car with a flashlight, extra batteries, first aid kit, warm clothes, a blanket, food, water and any needed meds.
> Keep sunglasses in your car. Glare off snow and ice is intense.
> Remember your cell phone, in case of emergencies (definitely not while driving).
> Keep your gas tank at least 1/2 full, to avoid gas line freeze ups.
> Make sure you have a substantial snow brush and ice scraper, perhaps even a shovel.
> For rear wheel drive cars, a bag of sand in the trunk, adds weight to the driving wheels, providing better traction. Also, sand can be shoveled
   under the wheels in the event you are stuck on a slippery surface.
> IF YOU BECOME SNOWBOUND, stay with your vehicle. It provides temporary shelter. Tie a brightly colored cloth to the antenna or at the top
   of a rolled up window to signal distress.
> Make sure the exhaust pipe isn't clogged with snow or mud. A blocked exhaust could cause a deadly carbon monoxide leak into the passenger
   compartment.
> If possible, run the engine and heater just long enough to remove the chill and conserve gasoline.

SLOW DOWN AND DRIVE SMOOTHLY:

> Avoid abrupt acceleration, braking and unnecessary lane changes. These maneuvers can cause you to lose traction, causing an uncontrollable
   skid, leading to an accident.
> Be patient and accept the fact that it is going to take longer to arrive at your destination.
> Do not tailgate. Stay well behind the driver in front of you. It takes a much longer distance to stop on snow or ice, due to reduced traction.
> Avoid driving if you are fatigued.
> Do not use cruise control, and don't stop if you can avoid it. Don't power up hills and as long as there is nothing in front of you, don't stop
   on a hill. You will lose all inertia.

LAST, BUT NOT LEAST:

> Stay home if you really don't have to go out. Remember, even if you drive well in the snow....not everyone else does. Accidents "don't just
   happen", they are caused, most often by humans, not acting responsibly, and taking unwarranted risks. Be very careful and think twice
   before you act. Enjoy the Winter and be safe.

For all your Real Estate, Insurance needs and helpful tips, contact LEGACY REALTY GROUP, Edison, New Jersey. 732.744.0400.

>THE ORIGIN OF SANTA CLAUS<

To begin, actually the truth of the matter is that the modern Santa Claus is a conglomeration of sources, a legendary being that has evolved over the years. Along the way, pre-Christian legends, the story of St. Nicholas, Dutch immigrants to America, Clement Moore, Thomas Nast and the Coca-Cola company, have all made their contributions.

THE SAINT NICHOLAS CONNECTION

It is well known that the name "Santa Claus" is derived from the Dutch, "Sinter Klaas", which in turn, was a form of Saint Nicholas. Our modern Santa Claus took his name from the Christian Saint Nicholas, and to which, both the Eastern and Western Church claims to be the object of extreme veneration. Ironically, little factual information is actually known about this popular saint. The feast of St. Nicholas, held on December 6, has been observed with great enthusiasm throughout Medieval Europe over the centuries. This enthusiasm was due to the many legends, stating that St. Nicholas had distributed gifts to the poor, at night, through their windows, giving gifts to those who had been good. In some variations of the legend, he was accompanied by Black Peter, an elf, whose job was to punish children who had been bad.

SANTA CLAUS IN AMERICA

When the Dutch established their colony of "New Amsterdam" in America in the 17th century, they brought with them the traditional "visit" from Sinter Klaas (St. Nicholas) on the eve of December 5th. It is believed that when the English later took over the colony, and renamed it New York, the English children began longing for a kindly "Sinter Klaas" of their own, who would bring them gifts. However, because the English Protestants did not observe saints days, the Sinter Klaas visit was moved to Christmas Eve.

There is a consensus that the person most responsible for shaping the American version of Santa Claus, is Dr. Clement Clark Moore. a theology and classics professor at Union Seminary. What did Moore do to earn this honor.......... in 1822 he wrote a simple poem for his children entitled, "A Visit from St. Nicholas" that begins with the now famous words:

Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house,

Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse,

The stockings were hung by the chimney with care,

In the hope that St. Nicholas soon would be there.

In any case, in describing St. Nicholas, Moore want beyond anything that had been said yet. It was Moore who increased the number of reindeer to eight and gave us their names. It was he, who described Santa going up and down the chimney, leaving toys in stockings, hung by the fireplace. Moore's St Nick was "chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf"; He carried a bundle of toys on his back;  "he had eyes that twinkled, dimples that were merry, cheeks like roses, a broad face and a little round belly". Moore's Santa was also a small elf who flew in a "miniature sleigh" pulled by eight "tiny" reindeer.

It was Bavarian illustrator Thomas Nast, who gave us the picture of Santa Claus, now so common. Nast was clearly inspired by Moore's 1822 poem and added additional features to the Santa Claus evolution, such as, Santa's home at the North Pole, his workshop filled with elves, and his list of all the good and bad children of the world.

Believe it or not, the Coca-Cola company also contributed to the modern Santa Claus. Beginning in 1931 and for 35 years thereafter, Coke ran advertisements that featured a human-size Santa (not elf size) drinking Coke. These ads contributed much to the modern image of Santa Claus and the drinking of Coke, ads you see to this day.

CONCLUSION

When conclusions are drawn about the origin of Santa Claus, they have been shaped by many factors and are a conglomeration of myths and legends. When surveying the history of the evolution of Santa Claus, the critical point occurred when the St. Nicholas visit was transferred from December 6 to December 25. Generally speaking, Christians see Santa Claus, in and of itself, as a great story to tell children, colorful, musical and fun. Generally, they don't have a problem linking Santa with Christmas-the birth of Christ, especially since it is not known exactly when Christ was born.

To all....... have a wonderful and safe holiday season and take advantage of the opportunity to spend time with friends and relatives...."and to all, a good night"

For all your Real Estate, Insurance needs and helpful hints, call  LEGACY REALTY GROUP, Edison, NJ. 732.744.0400

THE HISTORY OF HANUKKAH (CHANUKAH)

Hanukkah or Chanukah (for anyone not aware) is the eight day festival celebrated by Jewish people around the world. The history of Hanukkah dates back to 165 BCE. The land of Judea was ruled by Antiochus, a Syrian King, who ordered the Jews to reject all their rituals and beliefs, forcing them to worship Greek Gods and eat the meat of a pig. Out of fear of the Greek Soldiers, some Jews obeyed, while the remaining Jewish people, would not comply to these orders, both of which were against Jewish law, and out of anger, decided to fight back.

A Jewish High Priest, Mattahias and his five sons, attacked and killed many of the Greek soldiers, then took asylum nearby. When Mattahias died a year later, his son Judah Maccabee took charge of the Jewish Army, committed to defeat the Greek Soldiers. The determined army fought fiercely and successfully defeated the Greek Soldiers. Judah and his men then traveled to the Holy Temple to attend to it's restoration. While they were cleaning and repairing the damages to the temple, which was in shambles, they discovered that many precious items were missing or had been destroyed. They repaired what was left, including the Menorah, a nine branched candelabrum. They discovered that the limited amount of purified oil, which could only light the Menorah for one night, miraculously burned for eight days, thus giving rise to the establishment of Hanukkah, "The Festival of Lights". This eight day festival is celebrated to commemorate the re-dedication of the Holy Temple and the victory of Judah Maccabee over the Greeks. During this eight day festival, Jews light one candle on the Menorah each night, preceded by Jewish blessings. According to the Hanukkah tradition, the candles should not be blown out.

This year, on Thursday, November 28, 2013, Hanukkah and Thanksgiving occur on the same day, an astronomical merging of the Holidays, that will not happen again for 77,000 years. Since this will be a "once in a lifetime" event, perhaps there could be a turkey shaped Menorah called a "Menurkey", or a "Thanksgivukka" to honor both Holidays. Pardon the humor.
Ironically, in 2016, Hanukkah begins on Christmas Eve. Not as spectacular an event as this year, but special nevertheless.

ENJOY YOUR HOLIDAYS !!!!!!!

For all your Real Estate and Insurance needs and helpful hints, contact, LEGACY REALTY GROUP, Edison, NJ. 732.744.0400