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National Association of Realtors

Saturday, June 30, 2018

Real Estate Insights: What You Need to Know About Buying a Second Home


By Joy Bender
What better way to invest your money than snatching up your dream vacation home? If you think you're ready to purchase a second home, don't rush into it. Read this guide to ensure it's one of the best decisions you'll ever make in your life.
Buying a second home is one of those treasured rites of passage, like getting married or buying a car. It's a sign that you're doing well and can afford to reward yourself. Now can be a good time to take the plunge, as mortgage rates are still at an impressive low.
Here's everything you need to know before you call a REALTOR® and jump into the process:

Reasons to Buy a Second Home

First, let's talk about why you should buy a second house. Why? Because it tells you something about what priorities you need to have in order.
  • You Can Afford It
The first big one, for most people, is a question of finances. Most buyers of second homes are in their 40s and 50s, when their children may begin leaving the house. You're no longer tied to one place because of school, and since your kids are out of the house, you may be looking to establish traditions.
This is also the point in your life when you tend to be earning more, which grants you the freedom to look into a second property.
  • Long-Term Appreciation
As investments go, real estate can be a highly rewarding option. Of course, there are still risks involved with real estate, so you have to do it right. For example, investing in property in an up-and-coming town can improve your property value over time—good news for the savvy investor.
  • Comfortable Retirement
Given that most people looking into a second home are in their 40s and 50s, you're likely considering what retirement will look like. A second property is a great way to plan for the future.
Let's say you've always wanted to retire to the sunny beaches of California. When you're looking at another property, why not tailor your search with retirement in mind? That way, once you retire, you'll already have the property—and it'll have years to grow in value in the meantime.
  • Tax Benefits
Finally, we can't talk about another house without talking about the tax benefits involved. Good news for you: the IRS allows you to write off the property taxes on your second residence. This applies whether it's an investment property, a rental property, or solely for your own use.
Tax advantages don't end with property taxes, though. You can also deduct interest, insurance and depreciation against the home's value. For more, take a look at this tax guide for rental property owners.

Primary Residence vs. Second Home

Before you buy, you should be aware of a few key differences between your primary and secondary home. For one thing, it's a matter of priorities. When you chose your first home, you chose somewhere you could live day to day, so it had to meet a few key criteria, like the quality of the school system.
When you purchase your next residence, you're going to be more concerned with whether it has everything you need to enjoy yourself while on vacation. There are a few key differences between a primary and secondary residence that aren't just about the beach. Your mortgage and interest rates will change based on which home is your primary residence and which is your secondary.
In order for a home to be considered your primary, it must meet the following criteria: You must live there the majority of the year; it must be conveniently located near your job; and you need documentation to prove residence, like voter registration.
A secondary home has to meet the following criteria: It must be exclusively under your control; you must live there for some part of the year; it must be accessible by car year-round; and it must be a reasonable distance from your primary residence.
When we say "exclusively under your control," that means that the home cannot be subject to a rental agreement, timeshare or similar arrangement. You can rent the property out to others, but if you're renting it yourself, it doesn't qualify as a second residence.

Second Home vs. Investment Property

Then, there's the difference between a second home and an investment property. To put it simply, an investment property is a property purchased with the intent of earning a return on rental income, future resale or both.
While you can rent a second house, it's legally different from an investment property, which means it's subject to different loans and mortgages. Specifically, an investment property is purchased for the exclusive purpose of renting to tenants, not for your use as a vacation home.
A home qualifies as an investment property if you can prove the property is occupied by a tenant. This is usually done with a lease agreement; however, if the tenant has the ability to purchase the property from you, this must be secondary to the mortgage. And if your tenants are paying month-to-month rent, you'll also need to provide a letter to that effect.

Dos and Don'ts of Buying a Second Home

Now that you know your way around the basics, let's talk about a few dos and don'ts of buying a second home. Remember, you're not buying a house with the intention of moving there full-time; because of this, your priorities will be different.
  • Do Evaluate Long-Term Goals
The first question to ask yourself is what your goal is with the second property. Do you want to be able to go there for summer vacation every year? Do you want to rent it out full-time and retire there in 20 years? This will change where you purchase a house.
You also need to consider what your long-term needs will be. If your children will grow out of your current favorite vacation spot (or if your current favorite spot isn't super accessible), that may throw a wrench in your long-term planning.
  • Do Get to Know the Area
As with your primary residence, it's important to know the area. The difference is what you're evaluating the area for.
Let's say you've picked out a San Diego neighborhood. Thing is, you're not checking out the school system or the aspects related to permanent residence. And if you're choosing a place in your favorite vacation spot, chances are you haven't noticed some of the less obvious things that only show up when you live there—things like local politics, crime rates and property taxes.
The best way to get familiar with the area? Start chatting with people who live there. And not just about crime and politics either—ask about what there is to do year-round. If you plan to retire here but only like one event a year, you're going to be bored.
  • Do Get a Local Real Estate Agent
Let's be honest: Even if you've vacationed in an area, you just don't know it like a local. If you're looking to buy a home in the area as a non-local, you need a local real estate agent to point you in the right direction. There's also the fact that real estate is a highly-localized business. To get the best deal on a property, you need a real estate agent who knows the neighborhood like the back of their hand.
  • Do Know What Type of Home You Want/Need
Sure, there's appeal in a single-family house, but if you're not living there full-time, do you really need it? Think about it: If you purchase a second property, you need to maintain it. If it's a house, that means a lawn, heating and air conditioning, pipes and other tasks.
Also, if you're not living there for nine months of the year, that means you're either trekking out to the property once a week just to clean it, or you're paying someone else to clean it for you.
A condo, on the other hand, requires far less maintenance, and it's easy enough to delegate tasks to someone as needed. If you plan on retiring to your second residence, you'll also need to consider how your own needs and abilities may change as time wears on. You may not be able to maintain a house on your own, or may need a house with better accessibility.
  • Don't Impulse Buy
Above all else, do not impulse buy. There's any number of reasons for this: finances, for example, or not taking a long enough look at the area. The next thing you know, you're stuck paying a second mortgage on a house that isn't really the right fit for you.
When you buy, you should be in the right mindset to take a long, hard look at your finances and how much house you can afford. A second-home affordability calculator is a great tool to use in this situation. Similarly, you need to seriously consider what you and your family need from a second residence.

A Few Things to Know

Before you sign on the dotted line, pack up for San Diego, and break out your favorite moving tips, there are a few more things to keep in mind. Since this is your second residence, your mortgage situation will look a little different. There are also additional considerations since you won't be spending 365 days a year in the new house. The big thing to think about is what will happen to the house while you're not there. Will you rent it? Even if you don't, you have to think about upkeep when you're not there to dust and wash the windows in person.
  • Second-Home Mortgage
Unless you have enough cash on hand to pay for your second home out of pocket, you're going to have to get a second mortgage. Here's the thing: depending on who you ask, your house payments (including your mortgage, taxes, etc.) shouldn't cost more than 35-45 percent of your pre-tax income. If you're looking at a conservative estimate, it shouldn't be more than 25 percent of your take-home income.
Regardless of how conservative you want to be with your money, the ratio is consistent regardless of how many properties you own. There's also the fact that second mortgages are generally viewed as a higher risk.
The best approach is to talk to several lenders about your options and keep in mind that there may be a significant disparity between how much you're comfortable paying each month and how big of a loan you can qualify for.
  • Rental Strategy
If you're like most second-homebuyers, you're looking to earn a rental income through your second property. If this is the case, you need to figure out your rental strategy early on.
The easiest way to do this is to figure out what you'd like to earn in rental income from the property each month, and then take a look at rental prices in the area to see what you can reasonably charge for your property.
At a minimum, your rental income should equal the amount you have to spend on the mortgage and other expenses. If you can't meet that cost, then consider purchasing a cheaper house.
  • Taxes
As the old adage goes, only two things are certain: death and taxes. Fortunately, there are a few tax breaks on second residences to make your life a little easier, such as the ability to write off property taxes on your second home.
There are a number of deductions and tax credits you may receive on your first home that won't apply to your second. Rules about property tax deductions on second homes also vary based on what state you live in and how often you use the second residence for personal purposes.
If you're planning on infrequent renting, good news: If you rent out a property for less than two weeks of the year, the income is tax-free. If you rent it out longer, you'll need to declare the income and pay taxes on it.
The best approach here is to talk to a tax professional. They can walk you through the details of the tax code and let you know how your second residence will affect your tax situation.
  • Extra Expenses
Finally, you can't purchase a second home without considering the extra expenses associated with it. What other extra expenses? Think about all the extra money you spend on your house throughout the year: redecorating, renovation, but also basic maintenance and upkeep. There's also homeowner's association dues if it's somewhere with an association, and possibly a second insurance policy.
When you take a good look at your finances, be realistic about how much you can afford to pay for these additional expenses. Otherwise, you may still be losing money on your second home.




Nancy M. Alexander - Stone Harbor and Avalon NJ Real Estate NancyAlexander.com

Friday, June 29, 2018

Summer Maintenance for Property Managers


By Brentnie Daggett
Without the cold of winter or the wet of spring and fall, the summer months might seem like the time when property maintenance tasks are at a minimum; however, in some cases, summertime brings with it more chores for property managers and tenants themselves.
In larger complexes, landlords will need to ensure that all outdoor community features are ready for use. Make sure pools, picnic areas, BBQ pits and any outdoor meeting places are safe and cleaned up for your tenants' enjoyment. For smaller or single-family properties that don't have shared areas, there are many important things that can still be accomplished during the summer. This includes inspecting roofing and weather stripping.
No matter the size of your property, it's good to keep a few tasks in mind as summer begins:
  • Irrigation system set-up: The summer season brings rising temperatures, and with it, an opportune time to service your irrigation system to save on water usage, prevent landscape damage and reduce standing water. Don't forget to program sprinklers to the optimal summer settings for your area in order to keep your property looking truly fresh. If you don't have an automated system, make sure to go over expectations for watering with your tenants.
  • Prepare for fire season: With the worst fire season on record last year for the Western United States, preparing for fire risks associated with high heat is no laughing matter. Remove fire hazards in the form of debris or dead plants and trim bordering vegetation. Furthermore, ensure that any grills are properly ventilated and positioned away from buildings. Don't forget to check local laws regarding fire extinguisher requirements for landlords.
  • Service cooling systems: To prolong the life of your property's heating and cooling system, be sure to have a professional service your AC unit at least once a year. A professional must check the unit, clean coils, adjust dampers and look for any other potential problems. Remove trees, debris or trash that can hamper the unit's effectiveness.
  • Create a maintenance checklist: Depending on the features of your rental property, this list can change. Each season calls for different routine maintenance in order to properly protect your investment. Alongside traditional safety checks and routine maintenance, be sure that you add these summer chores to your team's to-do list: service the pool; clean grills/check propane; organize outdoor areas; and make sure any outdoor fixtures like chairs, tables or umbrellas are undamaged.
Summer is also a good time to open up lines of communication with your residents. As people spend more time outdoors in the evenings, it's a good idea to remind renters about a complex's quiet hours, and regulations about pool use, grills and community amenities. Within your reminder, include information about any policies for guests and parking regulations.
Take advantage of the sunshine and host summer community events, like a BBQ or pool party, to pave the way for asking for renewals. By offering renewal incentives and reminding your tenants about how much fun it is to live in your property, it's more likely that they will stay.
While summer months and home maintenance may not be closely associated in your mind, this is the perfect time of year to ensure that everything is in good shape, safe and ready for any weather.






Nancy M. Alexander - Stone Harbor and Avalon NJ Real Estate NancyAlexander.com

Thursday, June 28, 2018

Avalon and Stone Harbor NJ Weekly Update June 28, 2018 #RealEstate #NJ


MARKET STATS:  Strong sales have led to low levels of inventory in most property categories.  33 units sold last month and an additional 35 units were placed under contract; only 52 new listings were added to the market.  See the latest Long & Foster Market Minute for more market statistics.



Click above for the latest Long & Foster Market Minute.


DOLPHIN WHISPERER Nik Pattantyus has done it again!  See Nik’s latest dolphin video showing several dolphins and a calf swimming just offshore.  Nik videos dolphins while he paddleboards off the beach.


Take a paddleboard ride with Nik Pattantyus as he captures footage of a dolphin calf swimming with several adult dolphins.

FIREWORKS are the main event over the Independence Day holiday!  Seven Mile Island visitors have two chances to catch fireworks displays.  On Monday, July 2nd Stone Harbor will launch fireworks off the 96th Street beach at dusk.  On Wednesday, July 4th Avalon’s display will take place off the 30th Street beach at about 8:45pm.  Sea Isle City and Cape May will also feature fireworks displays on the 4th.  Not enough options?  You can also catch a weekly fireworks display on the Wildwood beach any Friday evening at 10pm during the summer season.

RYAN HOWARD VISITS CAPE MAY COUNTY ZOO:  Now that he’s not busy playing first base for the Philadelphia Phillies, Ryan Howard found some time to visit the Cape May County Zoo last week.  Howard even took a few moments to pose for pictures with Middle Township Police officers; the photos later appeared on the department’s Facebook page. 

SUSTAINABLE JERSEY awards will go to seven municipalities in our area.  Avalon will receive a $20,000 grant to fund diamondback terrapin preservation.  Turtle nesting areas and barriers will be created to prevent turtle fatalities on roadways.  Stone Harbor will receive a $2,000 grant. 

AIRPLANE LOVERS SHOULD PLAN AHEAD for two great air shows returning to our area later this summer.  The Atlantic City Air Show returns on August 22nd, and will feature the hugely popular US Air Force Thunderbirds, among numerous other performers.  The show is free, and viewers can watch from the beach or boardwalk, a hotel balcony, or aboard a boat.  Beginning August 31st Airfest returns to the Naval Air Station Wildwood Museum at the Cape May County Airport featuring several WWII era planes.  A $16 ticket includes aircraft tours, music and access to Hangar #1.  30-minute flights on vintage aircraft begin at $400 and require advance reservations.  Visit https://usnasw.org/pages/airfest for details.

UPCOMING EVENTS:
  • Avalon Free Public Library’s ‘Libraries Rock!’ Kid’s Reading Program, prizes every week, NOW through Friday, August 17
  • APAC Children’s Mini Event featuring Michael Rosman’s Amazing Feats of Comedy, Avalon Elementary School, 11AM-Noon, Thursday, June 28
  • Movie Night at the Stone Harbor Library, PG rated Despicable Me 3, 5:30-7:30PM, Thursday, June 28
  • Thursdays on Dune Concert featuring ‘Blue Bone,’ Veteran’s Plaza in Avalon, 7PM, Thursday, June 28
  • Full Moon Climb at the Cape May Lighthouse, 8-10PM, Thursday, June 28
  • 8th Annual Low Tide Beach Ride benefiting Brendan Borek Fund, 9th Street Beach, check-in & registration at 5PM, Saturday, June 30
  • Harbor Hustle 5K Run & 2 Mile Fun Walk, Stone Harbor Recreation Field at 8100 Second Avenue, Registration at 6:45AM, Race at 8AM, Fun Walk at 8:05AM, Sunday, July 1
  • Stone Harbor’s Farmer’s Market, 95th Street Water Tower Plaza, 8AM-12:30PM, Sunday, July 1
  • Stone Harbor Bird Sanctuary tour, meet at Egret Espy Trail at 114th Street & Second Avenue entrance, 10AM, Sunday, July 1
  • Avalon Field Races & Family Fun, 10th Street Field, 10AM, Sunday, July 1
  • Lutheran Church of Our Saviour Chicken BBQ, 9212 Third Avenue, 5-7PM, Sunday, July 1
  • Stone Harbor Family Night, fun for all, Stone Harbor Fire House, 7PM, Monday, July 2
  • 63rd Army Band Concert, Veterans Plaza in Avalon, 7-8:30PM, Monday, July 2
  • Stone Harbor Independence Day Celebration, Live music at 95th Street Pavilion, 7:30-9:30PM, Monday, July 2
  • Stone Harbor Fireworks over the beach, Dusk, Monday, July 2
  • Children’s Mini Event: Fourth of July Fun, Avalon Elementary School, 11AM, Tuesday, July 3
  • Mummers & a Movie, 30th Street & the Beach, Mummers performance at 6PM, Movie ‘Wonder’ at dusk, Tuesday, July 3
  • Stone Harbor’s July 4th Field Day, 80th Street Recreation Field at 8100 Second Avenue, registration at 9AM for select activities & Home Run Derby, activities begin at 10AM, Wednesday, July 4
  • Avalon Boat Parade, High Tide, Wednesday, July 4
  • Beach Concert featuring Andrew Jude, 30th Street Beach, 1-3PM, Wednesday, July 4
  • Avalon Independence Day Celebration, 30th Street Parking lot, 6-8PM, Wednesday, July 4
  • Bay Atlantic Symphony Concert, Avalon Community Hall, 7PM, Wednesday, July 4
  • Avalon Fireworks off the 30th Street Beach, 8:45PM, Wednesday, July 4
  • Children’s Mini Event: The Carrot Salesman Puppet Show, Avalon Elementary School, 11AM-Noon, Thursday, July 5
  • Avalon’s Thursdays on Dune Concert featuring Jonifin Marvin and The Philly Reggae Band, activities beginning at 5:30PM, Concert at 7PM, Veterans Plaza, Thursday, July 5

  
Featured Property:

This Bayfront townhouse sits on a 60-foot-wide lot, and has beautiful bay & wetland views!


643 Sunrise Drive, Avalon, $1,795,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 181502


New Listings:

4 1st Drive, Stone Harbor Manor, $299,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 182613

285 102nd Street, Stone Harbor, $479,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 182547

245 34th Street, Avalon, $849,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 182567

1688 Ocean Drive, Avalon, $899,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 182586

8506 Third Avenue, Stone Harbor, $924,990, ACTIVE MLS#: 182606

1127 Stone Harbor Boulevard, Stone Harbor Manor, $995,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 182633

237 48th Street, Avalon, $1,500,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 182645

168 98th Street, Stone Harbor, $1,799,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 182577

211 65th Street, Avalon, $1,899,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 182643

10611 Second Avenue, Stone Harbor, $1,900,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 182581

9725 Third Avenue, Stone Harbor, $2,100,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 182590

298 46th Street, Avalon, $2,495,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 182629

161 31st Street, Avalon, $2,795,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 182549

6188 Dune Drive, Avalon, $3,495,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 182585

317 89th Street, Stone Harbor, $3,699,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 182546

4345 Fourth Avenue, Avalon, $4,499,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 182618


Properties Under Contract:

7929 Dune Drive, Avalon, $299,999, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 179864

7929 Dune Drive, Avalon, $429,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 181592

7751 Ocean Drive, Avalon, $435,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 169072

3470 Dune Drive, Avalon, $879,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 179457

158 10th Street, Avalon, $1,299,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 180138

2968 First Avenue, Avalon, $1,479,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 178424

24 E. 21st Street, Avalon, $2,495,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 182161

  

Properties Sold:

30 Meadowview Lane, Avalon Manor, $325,000, SOLD MLS#: 171271

700 First Avenue, #418, Avalon, $565,000, SOLD MLS#: 179416

700 First Avenue, Avalon, $590,000, SOLD MLS#: 180662

343 92nd Street, Stone Harbor, $1,437,500, SOLD MLS#: 178111

218 118th Street, Stone Harbor, $1,790,000, SOLD MLS#: 178785

3520 Ocean Drive, Avalon, $1,999,000, SOLD MLS#: 176378

200 89th Street, Stone Harbor, $2,820,000, SOLD MLS#: 176914

511 42nd Street, Avalon, $5,600,000, SOLD MLS#: 176579










Nancy M. Alexander - Stone Harbor and Avalon NJ Real Estate NancyAlexander.com

Thursday, June 21, 2018

Avalon and Stone Harbor NJ Weekly Update June, 21st #RealEstate

THE M/V TWIN CAPES, once the most luxurious ferry in the Cape May-Lewes Ferry fleet, was sunk last Friday to become part of an artificial reef.  The 320-foot ferry featured a restaurant, food court, and two bars, but proved expensive to operate and sat mothballed for a number of years, before being stripped of all hazardous material in preparation for the sinking.  The ship was sunk in 130 feet of water about 26 miles from shore, near the USS Radford (a destroyer) and the Tamaroa, a US Coast Guard Cutter.  The three ships are part of the Del-Jersey-Land reef, designed to provide a new habitat for marine life and a destination for offshore fishermen.



Watch as the M/V Twin Capes sinks last week at the Del-Jersey-Land reef site, about 26 miles from shore.

SHPOA PHOTO CONTEST: All Stone Harbor homeowners, guests, and visitors are invited to participate the 3rd Annual Stone Harbor Property Owners Association Photo Contest.  One photograph taken in Stone Harbor between June 14th and August 12th can be submitted to contact@stoneharborpoa.org.  For contest rules, visit https://www.stoneharborpoa.org/shpoa-photo-contest/2018-photo-contest/

CENTRALIZED DISPATCH of emergency services is now a reality in Cape May County, as the dispatch center at the county airport in Lower Township opened.  Avalon & Stone Harbor fire & EMS joined, along with Lower Township police, fire, and EMS.  As more towns join, the cost born by each will be reduced.  Avalon Mayor Martin Pagliughi, who is also the Director of the Office of Emergency Management, said centralized dispatch could help prevent confusion in the event of a major emergency.

THURSDAYS ON DUNE returns next Thursday, June 28th, at Veterans Plaza on Dune Drive at 21st Street.  Each week there will be kids’ activities from 5:30pm to 7pm and live music from 7pm to 8:30pm.  For a schedule of events and music, click here: https://visitavalonnj.com/event/thursdays-dune-6

SUMMER’S UPON US!  With warmer temperatures and afternoon seabreezes on most days, it feels like summer!  Everything’s open, and weekend crowds are starting to build!  With most schools ending this week, summer will be in full swing in the next couple days!

JULY 4TH EVENTS are listed below.  Fireworks shows are planned on Seven Mile Island.  Catch Stone Harbor’s fireworks display on Monday, July 2nd  and Avalon’s on Wednesday, July 4th.  Check below for more events!

WANT TO MAKE IT PERMANENT?  Would you like to have a permanent vacation home here at the shore?  Let’s talk about how you can make it a reality.  From mortgage financing to rental income, we can discuss ways to make your dreams come true!

UPCOMING EVENTS:
  • Avalon Free Public Library’s ‘Libraries Rock!’ Kid’s Reading Program, prizes every week, NOW through Friday, August 17
  • Avalon Performing Arts Council Art Show: Celebrating Three Decades of Art, Preview Night, Avalon Elementary School, 6-9PM, Friday, June 22
  • Avalon Performing Arts Council Art Show: Celebrating Three Decades of Art, Avalon Elementary School, 10AM-4PM, Saturday, June 23
  • Avalon Library Open House & Story Book Bash, Avalon Free Public Library, 10AM-1PM, Saturday, June 23
  • 1st Annual Summer Kick-Off Pickleball Tournament, 8100 Second Avenue in Stone Harbor, Saturday & Sunday, June 23 & 24
  • Stone Harbor’s Farmer’s Market, 95th Street Water Tower Plaza, 8AM-12:30PM, Sunday, June 24
  • Stone Harbor Bird Sanctuary tour, meet at Egret Espy Trail at 114th Street & Second Avenue entrance, 10AM, Sunday, June 24
  • Stone Harbor Family Night, fun for all, Stone Harbor Fire House, 7PM, Monday, June 25
  • Children’s Mini Event, Rizzo’s Wildlife, Avalon Elementary School, 11AM, Tuesday, June 26
  • Avalon’s Beach Movie, ‘Spider Man Homecoming,’ 30th Street & the beach, dusk, Tuesday, June 26
  • Flyers Trial on the Isle: Flyers Prospect Exhibition, Stone Harbor town-wide, all day, Wednesday, June 27
  • Cornhole Night at Stone Harbor Elementary School Field, 7-8:30PM, Wednesday, June 27
  • APAC Children’s Mini Event featuring Michael Rosman’s Amazing Feats of Comedy, Avalon Elementary School, 11AM-Noon, Thursday, June 28
  • Movie Night at the Stone Harbor Library, PG rated Despicable Me 3, 5:30-7:30PM, Thursday, June 28
  • Thursdays on Dune Concert featuring ‘Blue Bone,’ Veteran’s Plaza in Avalon, 7PM, Thursday, June 28
  • Full Moon Climb at the Cape May Lighthouse, 8-10PM, Thursday, June 28
  • 8th Annual Low Tide Beach Ride benefiting Brendan Borek Fund, 9th Street Beach, check-in & registration at 5PM, Saturday, June 30
  • Harbor Hustle 5K Run & 2 Mile Fun Walk, Stone Harbor Recreation Field at 8100 Second Avenue, Registration at 6:45AM, Race at 8AM, Fun Walk at 8:05AM, Sunday, July 1
  • Avalon Field Races & Family Fun, 10th Street Field, 10AM, Sunday, July 1
  • Lutheran Church of Our Saviour Chicken BBQ, 9212 Third Avenue, 5-7PM, Sunday, July 1
  • 63rd Army Band Concert, Veterans Plaza in Avalon, 7-8:30PM, Monday, July 2
  • Stone Harbor Independence Day Celebration, Live music at 95th Street Pavilion, 7:30-9:30PM, Monday, July 2
  • Stone Harbor Fireworks over the beach, Dusk, Monday, July 2
  • Children’s Mini Event: Fourth of July Fun, Avalon Elementary School, 11AM, Tuesday, July 3
  • Mummers & a Movie, 30th Street & the Beach, Mummers performance at 6PM, Movie ‘Wonder’ at dusk, Tuesday, July 3
  • Stone Harbor’s July 4th Field Day, 80th Street Recreation Field at 8100 Second Avenue, registration at 9AM for select activities & Home Run Derby, activities begin at 10AM, Wednesday, July 4
  • Avalon Boat Parade, High Tide, Wednesday, July 4
  • Beach Concert featuring Andrew Jude, 30th Street Beach, 1-3PM, Wednesday, July 4
  • Avalon Independence Day Celebration, 30th Street Parking lot, 6-8PM, Wednesday, July 4
  • Bay Atlantic Symphony Concert, Avalon Community Hall, 7PM, Wednesday, July 4
  • Avalon Fireworks off the 30th Street Beach, 8:45PM, Wednesday, July 4

Featured Property:

Three bedrooms, two baths, central air conditioning, and a pool, all just a few blocks from Stone Harbor’s beaches!



10800 Third Avenue, Stone Harbor, $574,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 178987


New Listings:

9511 Sunset Drive, Stone Harbor, $325,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 182489

351 96th Street, #408, Stone Harbor, $629,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 182506

2686 Ocean Drive, Avalon, $1,599,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 182452

154 106th Street, Stone Harbor, $1,789,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 182528

175 78th Street, Avalon, $1,895,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 182529

286 76th Street, Avalon, $2,275,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 182464

265 17th Street, Avalon, $2,295,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 182487

110 113th Street, Stone Harbor, $2,725,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 182444

115 116th Street, Stone Harbor, $2,995,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 182472


Properties Under Contract:

2169 Ocean Drive, Avalon, $629,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 174784

696 21st Street, Avalon, $697,500, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 180920

234 32nd Street, Avalon, $799,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 182398

3470 Dune Drive, Avalon, $879,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 179457

3458 Dune Drive, Avalon, $899,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 182359

121 27th Street, Avalon, $1,299,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 182477

204 37th Street, Avalon, $2,300,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 181826

121 17th Street, Avalon, $2,395,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 182314

3107 Avalon Avenue, Avalon, $3,795,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 180242

1 87th Street, Stone Harbor, $5,200,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 181015



Properties Sold:

10 Seabass Lane, Avalon Manor, $175,000, SOLD MLS#: 176349

144 Meadowview Lane, Avalon Manor, $566,000, SOLD MLS#: 180433

125 80th Street, Avalon, $645,000, SOLD MLS#: 181646

54 E. 27th Street, Unit 4, Avalon, $680,000, SOLD MLS#: 176723

1100 Ocean Drive, Avalon, $975,000, SOLD MLS#: 179732

294 50th Street, Avalon, $1,107,000, SOLD MLS#: 180052

161 31st Street, Avalon, $1,250,000, SOLD MLS#: 182349

138 111th Street, Stone Harbor, $1,700,000, SOLD MLS#: 181138

200 89th Street, Stone Harbor, $2,820,000, SOLD MLS#: 176914

84 E. 23rd St., Avalon, $2,812,500, SOLD MLS#: 179933

25 Flamingo Drive, Avalon, $2,900,000, SOLD MLS#: 178048

202 75th Street, Avalon, $3,195,000, SOLD MLS#: 177076






Nancy M. Alexander - Stone Harbor and Avalon NJ Real Estate NancyAlexander.com

Friday, June 15, 2018

8 Ways To Lower Your Water Bill This Summer



When the temps rise, so does water usage. And that means a larger impact on areas that are already struggling with drought conditions, not to mention the impact on your wallet, regardless of where you live.
"Summer's rising temperatures often coincide with rising outdoor water use, primarily due to an increase in lawn and landscape watering," said WaterSense. "While using water efficiently is important throughout the year, sometimes the timing of water use can make a big difference for community water supplies - and your water bill."
In most cases, there are easy fixes you can make to be more water efficient. Here are 8 you can incorporate into your daily habits immediately.

Turn off the faucet!
Did you know that you waste a good four gallons of water every time you leave the faucet running while you're brushing your teeth? This one easy change can make a big difference in your water usage and conservation efforts.

Check the toilets
"It may seem like a slow drip, but those drips add up to gallons faster than you might realize," said Maximum Yield. "To diagnose a silent toilet leak, place food coloring in your toilet tank and wait to see if the color makes it into the bowl. If you see color seeping in, it's time for a fix."

Set a timer
Have kids (or spouses) that take impossibly long showers? Even cutting back on a couple a week can dramatically curb your water usage. Shave off two minutes to save as much as 1,750 gallons of water per person a year! Set a 10-minute timer on a waterproof shower clock so your water-wasting offender can see how much time they have left to rinse, lather, and repeat.

Use the dishwasher
Here's a surprising fact: You actually use far more water handwashing dishes than if you run the dishwasher. How much more? "Doing a full load in your machine is far more efficient than washing the same number of dishes by hand," said This Old House. "This is especially true if you have an Energy Star dishwasher, which requires an average of four gallons of water per load, compared with the 24 gallons it takes to do them in the sink. Using one will save you 5,000 gallons of water, $40 in utility costs, and 230 hours of your time each year."

Go to the car wash
Yes, you can save a few bucks by washing your car at home. But if you think you're saving water, too, this may come as a shock: You use two and a half times more water handwashing the car than you would at the car wash!

Check your sprinklers
Malfunctioning sprinklers could be costing you money and wasting water. Sprinkler heads that don't properly deliver an even spray could cause parts of your lawn to die. If the heads don't lower properly, they can be damaged or broken easily.
You may also be overwatering. "If the environmental argument for conserving water doesn't appeal to you, here's a financial one: According to the city of Cleveland, the average cost of water starts at around $13 per 1,000 gallons," said Schill Grounds Management. "This may not seem like a ton of money, but volume quickly adds up when you're irrigating a large property. At this rate, the average sprinkler spraying just one zone it shouldn't be for 12 minutes/day at 12 gallons/minute can waste over $680 per year! The simple truth is that only annuals need to be watered daily. Trees, shrubs, and turf can all be watered less frequently for massive water savings."
A check of your system could save you money and hassle.

Water in the morning or at night
Letting your sprinklers go during the hottest time of the day minimizes the benefit of watering. "Water evaporates quickly when the sun is high, so sprinkle when it's more likely to stay in the soil," said the National Resources Defense Council(NRDC). "And make sure you're watering your yard, not the sidewalk or driveway. A drip irrigation system works better than sprinklers, as it sends targeted amounts of water exactly where you want it. Check to see if you qualify for a rebate to make your irrigation system more water efficient."

Mulch it

Mulch doesn't just make your yard look fresh, but it also helps keep moisture in. "Mulched gardens are healthier, have fewer weeds, and are more drought-resistant than unmulched gardens," said Good Housekeeping. For the best results, consider rubber mulch. "Rubber is a step up from the bark-like texture you're probably used to seeing," said HGTV. "Made from 100-percent recycled tires, rubber mulch is suitable to use on most landscapes. It has several benefits: a safe play surface for children, prevents weeds, does not attract insects and water and air can easily flow through it."


Written by Jaymi Naciri



Nancy M. Alexander - Stone Harbor and Avalon NJ Real Estate NancyAlexander.com

Thursday, June 14, 2018

Avalon and Stone Harbor NJ Weekly Update June 14, 2018 #RealEstate


MORTGAGE RATES have crept up slightly the past few weeks, and the Mortgage Banker’s Association predicts they could reach an average of 5.4% in 2019.  Thinking about buying?  Now may be the right time, as a future rate increase could cost you more money each month.  Need a good mortgage lender?  Call me and I’ll be glad to put you in touch with a reliable pro!

AVALON’S 2018 INFORMATION & RECREATION GUIDE is available online at http://avalonnjguide.com/  In it you’ll find helpful phone numbers, beach information, a list of summer camps, plus event listings. 


Turtle fences really work…this turtle was kept safely in the brush adjacent to Avalon’s Municipal Marina, and prevented from crossing Ocean Drive.  Keep an eye open for turtles in areas unprotected by turtle fences, as they seek higher ground upon which to lay eggs.

 
TUNA IN THE CANYONS, and flounder inshore.  That’s the synopsis on June fishing in local waters.  Reports of good catches continue to come in as tuna move northward, and numerous flounder are caught in the bay.  A 269 pound mako shark was weighed in at the South jersey Marina Shark Tournament this past weekend, in which 68 boats were entered.

STONE HARBOR’S ”HOBIE CAT BEACH” will be open for sailcraft storage, after being closed initially due to lack of sand.  The 122nd Street beach is steeper and narrower than usual meaning beachgoers may compete with catamarans stored in their traditional location.  As a compromise, catamaran storage will remain open but sailors must move their vessels on and off the beach without vehicles, using beach wheels and manpower instead.  The beach patrol could impose additional restrictions on that area of beach if necessary.

A.J. MEERWALD, New Jersey’s official tall ship, travelled to Atlantic Highlands, NJ this week as part of its summer cruise schedule.  The Meerwald will also visit Jersey City, Philadelphia and Cape Charles, Virginia this year among other ports of call, but will spend nearly a month berthed in Cape May beginning August 5th.  While in Cape May the Meerwald will offer a series of public sailing trips one to two hours in length. 

COMING SOON!  Fourth of July events will appear in my event list beginning next week—keep an eye out.  Meanwhile, check out the great events happening throughout the area this weekend!

UPCOMING EVENTS:
  • Avalon Free Public Library’s ‘Libraries Rock!’ Kid’s Reading Program, prizes every week, NOW through Friday, August 17
  • Movie Night at the Stone Harbor Library, PG rated Paddington 2, 5:30-7:30PM, Thursday, June 14
  • Avalon Lions Club Pancake Breakfast, Avalon Community Hall, 8-11AM, Saturday, June 16
  • Avalon Historical Society Olde House Tour, visit www.AvalonHistoryCenter.org for info, 1-4PM, Saturday, June 16
  • Big Band Dance featuring Swingadelic, Avalon Community Hall, 7PM, Saturday, June 16
  • Stone Harbor’s Farmer’s Market, 95th Street Water Tower Plaza, 8AM-12:30PM, Sunday, June 17
  • Stone Harbor Bird Sanctuary tour, meet at Egret Espy Trail at 114th Street & Second Avenue entrance, 10AM, Sunday, June 17
  • St. Mary’s Episcopal Church Strawberry Festival, 6-8PM, Sunday, June 17
  • Avalon History Trivia Night, Avalon History Center, visit www.avalonhistorycenter.org for info, 6PM, Tuesday, June 19
  • Avalon Performing Arts Council Art Show: Celebrating Three Decades of Art, Preview Night, Avalon Elementary School, 6-9PM, Friday, June 22
  • Avalon Performing Arts Council Art Show: Celebrating Three Decades of Art, Avalon Elementary School, 10AM-4PM, Saturday, June 23
  • Avalon Library Open House & Story Book Bash, Avalon Free Public Library, 10AM-1PM, Saturday, June 23
  • 1st Annual Summer Kick-Off Pickleball Tournament, 8100 Second Avenue in Stone Harbor, Saturday & Sunday, June 23 & 24
  • Stone Harbor’s Farmer’s Market, 95th Street Water Tower Plaza, 8AM-12:30PM, Sunday, June 24
  • Stone Harbor Bird Sanctuary tour, meet at Egret Espy Trail at 114th Street & Second Avenue entrance, 10AM, Sunday, June 24
  • Stone Harbor Family Night, fun for all, Stone Harbor Fire House, 7PM, Monday, June 25
  • Children’s Mini Event, Rizzo’s Wildlife, Avalon Elementary School, 11AM, Tuesday, June 26
  • Avalon’s Beach Movie, ‘Spider Man Homecoming,’ 30th Street & the beach, dusk, Tuesday, June 26
  • Flyers Trial on the Isle: Flyers Prospect Exhibition, Stone Harbor town-wide, all day, Wednesday, June 27
  • Cornhole Night at Stone Harbor Elementary School Field, 7-8:30PM, Wednesday, June 27
  • APAC Children’s Mini Event featuring Michael Rosman’s Amazing Feats of Comedy, Avalon Elementary School, 11AM-Noon, Thursday, June 28
  • Movie Night at the Stone Harbor Library, PG rated Despicable Me 3, 5:30-7:30PM, Thursday, June 28
  • Thursdays on Dune Concert featuring ‘Blue Bone,’ Veteran’s Plaza in Avalon, 7PM, Thursday, June 28
  • Full Moon Climb at the Cape May Lighthouse, 8-10PM, Thursday, June 28
  • 8th Annual Low Tide Beach Ride benefiting Brendan Borek Fund, 9th Street Beach, check-in & registration at 5PM, Saturday, June 30

  
Featured Property:
This 2,545 square-foot townhouse overlooks Avalon Golf Club, yet it’s just minutes from Avalon’s beaches, shops, and restaurants! 




1402 Saint Andrews Drive, Swainton, $469,500, ACTIVE MLS#: 181926


New Listings:

7929 Dune Dr., Unit 311, Avalon, $349,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 182354

8001 Second Avenue, Stone Harbor, $365,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 182347

7751 Ocean Drive, Avalon, $440,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 182404

667 22nd Street, Avalon, $499,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 182368

311 83rd Street, Stone Harbor, $699,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 182401

234 32nd Street, Avalon, $799,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 182398

1668 Ocean Drive, Avalon, $899,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 182375

6369 Ocean Drive, Avalon, $1,019,700, ACTIVE MLS#: 182365

2766 Ocean Drive, Avalon, $1,850,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 182388

286 58 Street, Avalon, $1,950,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 182385

3548 Dune Drive, Avalon, $1,995,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 182361

545 24th Street, Avalon, $2,349,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 182362

121 17th Street, Avalon, $2,395,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 182314

8221 First Avenue, Stone Harbor, $2,900,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 182396

165 75th Street, Avalon, $3,195,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 182317

9 E. 28th Street, Avalon, $3,800,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 182357

7109 Dune Drive, Avalon, $3,995,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 182338

12 105th Street, Stone Harbor, $4,795,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 182374


Properties Under Contract:

D34 Weber Court, Stone Harbor, $539,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 179210

301 80th Street, Avalon, $695,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 182373

225 34th Street, Avalon, $989,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 182221

315 79th Street, Avalon, $1,095,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 180876

161 31st Street, Avalon, $1,250,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 182349

5 Marine Way, Avalon, $1,350,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 182383

65 W. 24th Street, Avalon, $3,899,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 180440

315 60th Street, Avalon, $4,500,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 180195



Properties Sold:

212 33rd Street, Avalon, $470,000, SOLD MLS#: 179902

148 15th Street, Avalon, $975,000, SOLD MLS#: 179220

25 E. 23rd Street, Avalon, $3,275,000, SOLD MLS#: 177703

9201 First Avenue, Stone Harbor, $4,200,000, SOLD MLS#: 180042











Nancy M. Alexander - Stone Harbor and Avalon NJ Real Estate NancyAlexander.com