Monday, December 6, 2010
AFFORDABLE COLTS NECK COLONIAL! JUST LISTED
Friday, December 3, 2010
ROBERT DEFALCO REALTY'S ANNUAL CHAIRMAN'S AWARD WINNERS
This year's top producers and winners of the prestigious Chairman's Award for the New Jersey office were the team of Anna Appolonia and Leanne Lucarelli. Anna and Leanne have closed, year to date, in excess of $10MM worth of volume with an approximate $1.5MM dollars of volume still expected to close by year end.
Anna and Leanne have been able to succeed in this challenging Real Estate Environment due to their unwavering dedication, work ethic and excellent customer service.
Please join the Robert Defalco Realty Management staff in congratulating them on this year's achievement!
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Patience and Pricing
Although it takes time, the market is still active and making a recovery. It’s important to keep in mind that the real estate market, like the economy, is cyclical. There will be peaks in the market along with valleys.
However, mortgage rates are at their lowest in recent years. Although selling won’t happen overnight, with efficient, focused real estate professionals, the number of days your home remains on the market can decrease.
The marketplace is more stable now than it was a year ago.
Some crucial things to remember when selling or buying:
Buyers--
· More options in housing inventory
· Fewer competitive offers on same properties
· Don’t have to pay asking price
· Various mortgage options
· “Wait and see” approaches are not always best
Sellers--
· Be realistic with your asking price
· Overpriced homes will not sell
· In high demand areas, there will always be buyers
· Properties will not sell as quickly as they did in previous years
Keep in mind that people will always need a place to live!
Monday, November 22, 2010
Robert DeFalco Realty Presents Holiday Toy and Clothing Drive in Colts Neck
When violence forces women and children to leave their homes, 180′s Safe House is a safe haven. It shelters up to 7 families at a time for a period of 30 to 60 days in a confidential location. Residents are provided with counseling, advocacy and assistance in finding housing. Art therapy and counseling are available for children.
In addition, to fearing for their safety, many women stay in abusive relationships because they fear homelessness and financial instability. 180′s Families in Transition Program provides women and their children with a safe home for up to 24 months. Support services include career counseling, financial management, life skills training and assistance in obtaining housing.
This year especially, 180 Turning Lives Around is looking forward to our donations for TEENAGERS in particular.
We will be available to collect your donated items until December 10, 2010 between the hours of 10am – 4pm at our Colts Neck office located at 315 Highway 34, Colts Neck 07722 (across from Delicious Orchards). If you would like to bring items to the Staten Island office, we will be happy to arrange for transport to New Jersey.
Please help us in any way you can to bring a smile to the children’s faces this holiday season. THANK YOU!!
Article courtesy of V. Vargas, Colts Neck Office
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Sell First vs. Buy First!
While there is no "right" answer when it comes to Sell First vs. Buy First, there are several pros and cons to either situation. Your unique situation needs to be analyzed by a real estate professional and at that point they can offer you the best possible advice. However, generally, you will find yourself in the best position if you sell first and then buy. Often times the buyer of your home will understand that you need time to find something and will be reasonable in their expectations of closing time frame. remember it is ultimately you, the seller, who signs the contract and agrees to the anticipated closing date, so you are usually in the driver's seat when it comes to that.
If you are considering making a move, we can assist you in coordinating that transition and making the process as smooth as possible. Contact Anna or Leanne today to discuss your options.
article courtesy v. vargas Robert DeFalco Realty, New Jersey
Friday, October 29, 2010
JUST LISTED! DELIGHTFUL 4 BEDROOM COLONIAL FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP
We are pleased to announce our newest listing! This delighful 4 bedroom Center Hall Colonial is located in East Freehold on a lovely winding street. Home features a gorgeous updated gourmet kitchen which was completely renovated in 2008. Kitchen boasts beautiful custom cabinetry with trim, Viking Designer Series Stainless Appliances, Travertine tiles and Gleaming Granite Countertops.
This light and bright home features hardwood flooring through out, spacious room sizes, and a wonderful flow. Large, private yard, 6 zone sprinkler system, and hot tub are additional features. Home is situated on quiet block across from green acres. Freehold Regional School System!
Monday, October 25, 2010
SHORT SALE BRIEFING
Monday, October 18, 2010
Mortgage Update! October 18, 2010
As of this morning, it is possible to obtain a 30 year fixed rate mortgage with no points at a rate of 4.375%. The 15 year rate with no points is even better at 3.75%. The FHA rate is 4.375%.
In addition, for those of you that are looking to make a move into one of our Luxury Markets, like Colts Neck, Holmdel, Rumson, etc. the Temporary Loan Limits that the government put in place are expiring on 12/31/10. What this means to you--the conforming loan limit that is normally $417,000 which was increased to $729,750 will no longer be available. This affords someone purchasing a home and needing to obtain a mortgage of between $417,000 to $729,750 to be able to keep the conforming rate without being pushed into a jumbo rate loan. GREAT OPPORTUNITY!
Of course, if you are looking to make a move in the Monmouth, Ocean or Middlesex County areas we are available to assist you. In addition, our in house Mortgage Representative, Michael Scarimbolo of SI Mortgage Group is available to assist you in getting a pre approval for a mortgage or to help you determine what your best mortgage options are. Michael can be reached at (732) 845 0300.
Call Anna @732-371-3233 or Leanne @917 596-2772 to inquire regarding properties you may be interested in seeing.
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
JUST LISTED! RED BANK CONDO's
Holmdel Real Estate Update
Year to date, Holmdel has seen an increase in the properties sold from the same period in 2009. We have had 84 properties close this year versus only 68 during the same period of 2009.
Closed prices ranged from $219,000 at the lowest to $2,045,000 at the highest so far this year, bringing the average sales price at $799,931. In 2009, we saw during the same period, prices varying from $11,000 (for a motor home) to $2,827,882, with an average price of $790,306.
Holmdel currently has 23 homes under contract awaiting closing, ranging in list price from $60,000 to $2,100,000. There are currently 158 homes active for sale in the Multiple Listing Service.
Should you be in the market to buy or sell a home in the Holmdel area, call Leanne @917-596-2772 or Anna @732-371-3233 to obtain the latest information and conditions in the town or to preview available homes.
Monday, September 27, 2010
Septic Systems & NJ Real Estate
What is a septic system?
A septic is used for sewage treatment and disposal. The tank is the key component of the septic system. These systems are common in geographic areas that have no connection to a main sewage system that is provided by the local area government.
How it works
Whatever you put into your toilets, sinks & showers flows into the septic tank. The solids settle to the bottom of the the solid concrete tank and are partially decomposed by bacteria to form sludge. The liquids in the tank are floating above the solids, carrying bacteria, viruses and other potentially harmful substances into a soil absorption field which is commonly referred to as a leach field.
Septic System Maintenance
You must have your tank cleaned out regularly so that the sludge and scum don't build up. As a homeowner, you want to avoid build up & clogging of the outlet pipes where the liquids get discharged into the leach fields. Such clogging can cause early and costly failure of the system.
How Often Should you have the Tank Pumped?
It depends on the size of your family, the amount of water consumption and the capacity or size of the tank. For a family of 4 with an updated septic system, it is usually recommended that the tanks be pumped every 2 to 3 years.
Things to Avoid Putting into a Septic System
1) Avoid putting anything in your system that does not decompose or breakdown quickly. Do not flush feminine products, disposable diapers, paper towels or heavy toilet paper either.
2) Avoid heavy cleaners, noxious chemicals, & bleaches. It is adviseable to use organic & bio degradeable products. Avoid powdered detergents & dishwasher soaps. Gels & liquids are advised.
3) Avoid paint, paint thinners, gasoline, motor oil and grease.
Avoiding these mistakes can save and lengthen the life expectancy of your septic system.
When Selling a Home with a Septic
It may be advisable to have your system inspected before selling your home. We usually recommend to our sellers that this small investment of a few hundred dollars is well worth it. Septics that fail or come up as unsatisfactory on an inspection by a potential buyer, have caused many sales contract to fall apart. It does become the sellers' responsibility to deliver the septic in satisfactory condition, and because it is an environmental/health related issue it does give the buyer an "out" if the seller doesn't want to take on the responsibility of the repair. These repairs can be costly and time consuming and can cost a seller any where from a few thousand dollars to up to $30,000. Hence, it is better to know what you are getting into prior to having the home on the market for sale.
When Buying a Home with a Septic System
As a buyer it is the most important inspection that you will run. It is also the most expensive one. Septics are expensive to replace or repair so hiring a reliable inspector is really the first measure to ensuring the job is done right. The buyer needs to obtain permission by the seller to have this inspection performed as they will be digging and poking around on the sellers' property. Utility companies are called into the property for accurate markings of any utility lines running underground near the septic area. Once the tanks are located, opened and inspected a thorough report is delivered based on the inspector's findings. Any repairs, or replacements that need to be done to the system require an engineer and the local townships health department officer for approval before they are repaired.
If you are thinking of selling and your home has a septic, feel free to call us for recommended steps or who to use to inspect your system.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Colts Neck Real Estate Update
Average closed price in Colts Neck for 2010 to date is at $910,987 vs. $848,331 in 2009 which is approximately a 7% increase.
Sold properties ranged in price this year from lowest being $200,500 to highest coming in at $3,200,000. In 2009, lowest closed price was $259,900 and the highest $3,031,000.
Currently, there are 18 homes under contract in Colts Neck awaiting closing. In addition, we have 110 active listings in the Multiple Listing Service with prices ranging from $325,000 to $7,999,999.
If you are considering a move in or out of the Colts Neck market place, call Leanne @917-596-2772 or Anna @ 732-371-3233 to get the latest details on market conditions and availability of properties. If you are thinking of selling, we can provide you with a COMPLIMENTARY COMPARATIVE MARKET ANALYSIS for your home.
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Fall in Monmouth County
We are beginning to feel the nip in the air, leaves are starting to show their vibrant colors, and the children have settled themselves back into another school year.
Now that we have packed away the beach chairs and bathing suits let's get excited about fall!
Autumn brings the vibrant colors, sports activities on the weekends, football--of course, and preparation time for the holidays which are just around the corner!
Fall Special Events in Monmouth County:
Make time for the family & try 1 of the following local activities:
1) Buy fall pies and special goodies at Delicious Orchards in Colts Neck or Dearborn Farms in Holmdel
2) Pumpkin Picking & Apple Picking--a kid's favorite--at Eastmont Orchards in Colts Neck or Casola Farms in Holmdel or Colts Neck.
3) Spooktacular Haunted hayrides at Casola farms in Colts Neck and Holmdel
4) Outdoor activities and lots of room for a picknics at the Monmouth County Parks throughout Monmouth County.
5) Theatre productions at Two Rivers Theatre and Count Basie Theatres. Both located in the heart of Red Bank. Schedules available on line at their websites @ http://www.countbasie.ticketsnow.com/
or http://www.trtc.org/index_home.html.
6) Sept 25,2010 Pumpkinfest & Craft Show in Tinton Falls. 10am-2pm at the Hope Presbyterian Church located at 1189 Hope Road in Tinton Falls. They are offering various creative & seasonal crafts & more. For additional information please call 732-571-3378.
Also, on the same date visit the beautiful Deep Cut Gardens in Middletown for their fall plant swap. Event is from 10am-2pm & you can bring your perennials & houseplants in 1 quart, 1 gallon or 2 gallon containers to swap. Visit @ http://www.monmouthcountyparks.com/ for additional info.
7) Sept. 26, 2010 Annual Harvest Home festival at Historic Longstreet Farm in Holmdel Park. This is an old fashioned fair that is running from 11am to 5pm. It is reminiscent of fall celebrations of centuries past. Activities include wagon rides, games, live entertainment, craft demonstrations, and home & garden competitions. Again, visit http://www.monmouthcountyparks.com/ for more information.
And last, remember that Daylight Savings Time ends on November 7th. Fall back your clocks 1 hour.
If you are thinking about moving into the Monmouth/Ocean County or Middlesex County areas, remember to call the team that gets you results! Let us make your move an enjoyable experience. Call Leanne @ 917-596-2772 or Anna @ 732-371 -3233 to get the process started today!
Monday, August 16, 2010
LINCROFT CUSTOM COLONIAL JUST LISTED!
Home features a 2 story entrance foyer with spiral staircase and gleaming hardwood floors. Spacious Living Room & Dining Room also include hardwood and decorative moldings.
Monday, August 9, 2010
GRACIOUS 5 BEDROOM COLONIAL IN MANALAPAN
This stunning 5 year old, 5 bedroom brick front colonial won't last! No detail left unfinished! This gracious home is situated in a wonderful neighborhood and boasts upgrades galore. From the moment you enter the grand foyer w/ butterfly staircase you won't be sorry. Home has been professionally landscaped and meticulously decorated.
Gleaming hardwood flooring throughout the main level, 2 story foyer and grand 2 story great room with fireplace. Open floor plan is perfect for the entertainer. Home has 3 staircases leading to your second floor and has 5 bedrooms, each with their own private bath. Spectacular decorative moldings throughout.
Spacious eat in kitchen is suited for a chef and features custom cabinetry, large center island, stainless steel appliances, and 3 door openings leading to your beautiful Epai deck. Spectacular gunite in ground pool perfect for your lazy summer days. Call Leanne @ 917 596 2772 or Anna @ 732 371 3233 to preview this gorgeous home. You won't be sorry. Asking $1,079,000
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
NEW FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP HOME
Call Leanne @ 917-596-2772 or Anna @ 732 371-3233 to preview this home today!
Thursday, July 22, 2010
New COLTS NECK ESTATE: JUST LISTED
This beautiful home features a double door entry foyer with soaring cathedral ceiling and spacious rooms throughout. Gleaming Brazilian Cherry Floors in the Great Room and Living Room add a wonderful richness.
Monday, July 12, 2010
All About Colts Neck !
Did you know we are ranked 39th among the highest income places to live in the United States, per the 2000 census bureau? The median house hold income for 2007 was $166,495.
For the avid golfer, there are plenty of options with 5 beautiful golf courses within Colts Neck. Not to mention the additional ones that surround this town. We have Trump National Golf Club, Colts Neck Golf Club, Pebble Creek, Due Process and Hominy Hill Golf Course. All courses have beautiful views of our farmland.
Looking for activities all year round to keep the little ones busy. The Monmouth County Park System has activities for all ages. Including camps for the summer held at various parks throughout Monmouth County, from Seven Presidents Oceanfront Park in Long Branch to Historic Walnford in Upper Freehold.
Of course if you are being drawn to Colts Neck because you own a horse or love to ride. Farms are in abundance in this area. Just to name a few where you can board and enjoy riding in the open space are Jubilee Arabians, Equelan Stables, Grey Oaks Farm, and Victory Stables.
Housing Trends for the Month of June:
We have 25 homes under contract in Colts Neck as of the end of June. List prices on these homes range in price from $215,000 to $2,995,000. 12 homes closed during the month of June ranging in price from $365,000 to $1,300,000.
For any additional information regarding the market whether you are buying or selling, please contact one of us @ 732-371-3233 or @ 917-596-2772. As residents for over 10 years we can guide you with your move in the right direction.
KNOWLEDGE, INTEGRITY & PERSONALIZED SERVICE
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
INTRODUCING OUR NEWEST LISTINGS! 37 North Drive, Old Bridge & 90 Andover Lane, Aberdeen
This lovely 4 bedroom 2 1/2 bath colonial is approximately 11 years old. It is located in a quiet residential neighborhood, close to Old Bridge's Jonas Salk Middle School. The home boasts a wonderful open floor plan and 2 story entrance foyer. Family room opens off the large eat in kitchen and features cathedral ceilings and a wood burning fireplace for your casual enjoyment. Home also has a Formal Living Room and Dining Room and additional office off the foyer with french doors.
The home has a private yard backed by woods. Spacious balcony trex deck overlooks yard and is accessed through the kitchen sliders. Priced at $464,900. Call Leanne @ 917-596-2772 or Anna @732-371-3233 to preview this lovely home.
This wonderful 3 bedroom Ranch home is situated on a quiet oversized corner lot in the Strathmore section of Aberdeen. Recent updates include beautiful new bathrooms with porceline tile from floor to ceiling and a paver patio off the family room. Family room addition overlooks private yard and features large windows and wood flooring, opens to the spacious eat in kitchen.
Spacious Living Room & Dining Room feature new wood flooring, recessed lighting and decorative moldings. Radiant heat throughout. This home is perfect for the commuter with quick access to the Garden State Parkway, Highway 34 and New Jersey transit buses to NYC in walking distance at the end of the block. Various houses of worship within walking distance. Great location! Priced at $365,000. Call Leanne @917 596 2772 or Anna @ 732 371 3233 to preview this lovely home.
Thursday, July 1, 2010
43 Dartmouth Drive, Hazlet, NJ 07730
This home is located in close proximity to GSP access, Highway 35 and Highway 36. Great central location for commuters and shopping. Priced to
sell at $379,000! Call Leanne @917 596 2772 or Anna @732-371-3233 to preview this lovely home.
Great News for those that had valid contracts to purchase a home by April 30, 2010 but were not able to close on their purchase by June 30,2010. The government just extended the closing date deadline to September 30, 2010. Because of the difficult mortgage climate and the backlog of short sale inventory many were not able to close on their loans in time. You can read more details regarding this government extension @
http://www.cnbc.com/id/38038267
For all the latest news in the real estate market, including government programs, market trends, and mortgage options, remember to call Anna or Leanne, YOUR TEAM FOR SUCCESS!
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
YOUR REAL ESTATE TEAM FOR SUCCESS!
In this ever changing market place, you need a professional that will keep you abreast of marketplace challenges and updates. We can provide you with the latest housing market trends and financing trends and options. Our team can assist you in purchasing or selling your real estate, as well as, assist you in securing financing through our in house mortgage company. We have experts in all areas to make your real estate transition as smooth and seemless as possible.
Remember, call Leanne @917-596-2772 or Anna @ 732-371-3233 to get your Real Estate Goals Accomplished!
570 Turtle Hollow Drive, Freehold
570 Turtle Hollow Drive, Freehold
Spacious center hall colonial has many special features including a great room, bright sun room overlooking private property and 2 staircases. The sunken family room includes a woodburning fireplace and is open to the eat in kitchen. Home includes a guest suite on the 1st floor. An additional plus is the home office which has custom built in bookcases and hardwood flooring.
Master Suite includes sitting area, master bath and walk in closets. Upstairs features an additional princess suite and Jack & Jill bath which accomodates 2 bedrooms. Walk out basement with high ceilings is perfect for finishing and feeds to manicured yard with paver patio and trex balcony deck. Call us to preview this home before it is sold! Priced aggressivley.