Real Estate - Now and Then

Lecture by Noted Archaelogist in Mahwah / La Roe Van Horn House

Pamela STETSON (Abbott & Caserta Realtors) — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 12:53:10 -0600

LA ROE VAN HORN HOUSE ARCHAEOLOGY

November 19, 2009

A site formerly the home of the President of Ramapo College, originally excavated in 1980, was the 1750 Laroe-Van Horn House and the 1700 Indian Trading Post established by Blandina Bayard.

Seven excavation units were opened around the house and over 13,000 artifacts were recovered. The artifacts recovered are now part of the Mahwah Museum Collection and were analyzed in 2009 by noted Archaeologist Edward J. Lenik, author of many books on historic and pre-historic Indian topics, who will discuss his findings.

Place: Ramapo Reformed Church

Time: 7:30 p.m.

For Reservations call 201.529.0099

For more information or to join the museum see www.MahwahMuseum.org

The Mahwah Museum is a treasure !

For more information about buying or selling your largest asset contact me at 201.675.1618 or via email CupaT@aol.com. Afterall, location is the key to your real estate purchase.

copyright Pamela Stetson 2009 www.PamelaStetson.com

Come HOME for the Holidays --- List your home NOW !!!

Pamela STETSON (Abbott & Caserta Realtors) — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 13:30:22 -0600

Listing your home during the holidays is one of the best times of year to do so. Why?

Guests --- also known as buyers --- are welcomed into your home when it is fully dressed, so-to-speak. Buyers will be welcomed to festive decorations, warm smells, fresh baked goods on the table and many more special details not found at other times of the year. People tend to keep their home neat & ready for guests at this time year as well so, seller's are naturally prepared for showings. Tables are dressed in their finest table cloths or linens and the finest china and dinnerware is set out for all to see. Fireplaces are roaring. Lights are sparkling. People touring the home will get a warm and festive feel for the home.

Okay, they may get that warm-fuzzy feeling but will they buy?

The answer is a resounding, YES! Buyers looking for homes at this time of year are motivated to BUY. They tend to be relocating; they are pre-qualified and they know exactly what they are looking for. So, you may not have as many "sight-seerers" but those that do make appointments to see your home will be true buyers.

And, if you are marketing your home during the the winter or holiday period, make sure you make the time to show your home. Have your agent set pre-determined weekend times on Saturday and Sunday so that your home will be available. It does not have to be every weekend. Plan ahead with your realtor so everyone knows what to expect; how to advertise; and when buyers call they will know -- in advance --- that the home can be shown. What a pleasure!

If you are thinking of selling your home --- why wait for the spring market?

1. There is less competition amongst sellers for buyers.

2. Winter prospects ARE serious buyers.

3. Your home looks, feels and smells TERRIFIC during the holidays.

4. You may receive more money for your home because there are LESS homes on the market.

5. You control the showing hours and times. You will know, based on advanced schedules, when

your home can or cannot be shown. And, schedule advance "by appointment only" showing times.

6. January is traditionally the biggest transfer month & you must be listed in order to capture

this selling opportunity.

7. You may have LESS showings but these buyers tend to be more qualified and motivated to buy.

8. Your home is dressed-up and ready to welcome the new owner.

Look for a future blog that will share tips for decorating your home during the holiday season! And, remember, if you are thinking of selling your home, there is no need to wait for the spring --- your home may be in "best in show" this winter.

For more information about selling your largest financial asset, contact me at 201.675.1618. Or via email at CupaT@aol.com.

GO GET Your MAMMOGRAMS !!!

Pamela STETSON (Abbott & Caserta Realtors) — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 16:09:11 -0500

*** Women age 40 and older should have a mammogram every 1 to 2 years. If you are 40 or older and have not had a mammogram, please schedule one soon. Or if you have a female friend or family member 40 or older who has not had a mammogram within the last 2 years, encourage her to take the time to make an appointment. Early detection + more options = a higher survival rate.

So, please do yourself or a friend, co-worker or family member a favor --- Go get your Mamogram! Or remind someone. It could just save a life...

--- Pamela Stetson

Les Paul -- True Guitar Hero and Mahwah Resident

Pamela STETSON (Abbott & Caserta Realtors) — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 14:30:44 -0500

My son loves Les Paul.

Although my teenager plays the trumpet and he reads & can appreciate music, he does not play the guitar. He is by no means a musician though he listens to music 24/7. My Erik is a well-rounded kid who loves sports, his family & friends, basketball sneakers, sushi and video games. He has never met Mr. Paul nor does he know how he influenced artists, celebrities and musicians from around the globe.

Erik loves that Les Paul was a craftsman and inventor. Although Mr. Paul did not invent the guitar, he created the solid body electric guitar that became the signature for many a rock-and-roll muscian. (My first introduction to Les Paul's influence was through one of my favorite guitarists, Eric Clapton. He played soulfully on a Gibson version of the Les Paul guitar in the 70's.) Erik knows how I love Clapton and how I favor both acoustic & electric guitar music.

Erik first encountered an actual Les Paul guitar at a friends home nearby. The friend was fortunate to get one for a present ( he combined several holidays gifts). He marveled at it's shape, weight and the feel of the guitar's body against his own. He immediately ran home running over with details of the experience and put electric guitar lessons on his own wish list. He does not own a guitar, by the way.

It was later that he realized that Les Paul's name was one in the same with the version of Guitar Hero and through that video game he then recognized that so many musicians made music on one of the many Les Paul guitars. When he ran up the stairs after he put two and two together --- I told him that Les Paul lives very close by in our town, Mahwah, New Jersey. He was stunned. Together we jumped in the car so I could drive him past Mr. Paul's modest home on Ramapo Valley road.

From then on, he was a fan.

Erik did not know Mr. Paul personally. He did come to know and love him for his many dreams, inspirations and for his love of music. He also knew that Mr. Paul loved many, many generations of people from every race and religion. He was not one to look down upon the ideals of youth. In fact, even at the age of 94, he embraced their love of life. their idealism and their creativity.

On August 13, 2009, Les Paul passed away. Erik came home from basketball camp and was saddened by the news. He wanted to drive by his home again just to say goodbye. As we drove past, we nodded, each of us saying an unspoken good bye to a music legend and a neighbor.

For more information about Les Paul follow the links below:

http://www.thirteen.org/pressroom/release.php?get=2539

http://www.vindy.com/news/2008/nov/12/rock-hall-to-honor-les-paul/

http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/music/2009/08/14/2009-08-14_electric_guitar_hero_les_paul_dead_at_94_career_spanned_from_hitmaker_to_musical.html

For more information about buying or selling your largest financial asset, contact me at CupaT@aol.com. Copyright Pamela Stetson 2009.

The Rules have changed: What you will need to get a mortgage today...

Pamela STETSON (Abbott & Caserta Realtors) — Sat, 12 Sep 2009 19:59:38 -0500

The rules have changed in real estate, financing, lending and borrowing. No longer can you walk into a mortgage company or bank to borrow money to purchase a home. And, if you do, you better be prepared to provide additional dollars for the downpayment, have stellar credit and w2's proving your income stablility. An article of interest recently appeared in The New York Times entitled, "What you need to know to get a mortgage."

It clearly outlines how the game has changed, rules are more stringent and it explains in laymens terms how the process should work. This is an article that I will share with my buyers --- not only first time home buyers --- but other's that may have had a very different experience than the current lending situation.

See http://www.nytimes.com/2008/06/01/realestate/01cov.html .

For more information about buying or selling your largest financial asset, contact me at 201.675.1618 or email CupaT@aol.com .

Seasons of change

Pamela STETSON (Abbott & Caserta Realtors) — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 19:50:43 -0500

Back-to-school brings many changes and it brings many celebrated tradtions. We always walk our children to the school bus on the first day of school. We started this tradition with our kids on their very first day in kindergarten. Annual first day of school photos capture the event.

This year, our oldest went off to college. It has brought on a whirlwind of emotions for the whole family. I am happy and proud of our daughter's acheivements. And, I am sad for the speed in which time passes and how many season's have changed before our eyes. It was only yesterday that she started school. Now she was packed up and off to live in another state. It was the first time I did not walk her to the school bus.

My eight grader --- a strong, athletic boy --- was running around the house. Picking up items he forgot to put in his backpack. I made a pot of coffee and waited at the front door. I was holding his bagged lunch because... this year...he wanted to make his own lunches instead of buying them in school. I was hesitant, too, because I did not know what to expect. Eight grade is tough for boys. Would I be walking him to the bus?

He stumbled down the stairs, past me in a flash and was out the door. My heart sank. Then, he turned and said, "come on Mom. Grab the camera, too." My heart jumped and off to the bus stop we ran --- camera in tow.

As we chatted with neighbors and took the traditional first day of school pictures, a mother bear and her three cubs sauntered by on a nearby lawn. The cubs wrestled and tumbled behind her as she made her way into the woods. This path, was well worn for her. Her cubs had only begun the journey.

Season's may come and go, but back-to-school is a wonderful celebration of growth & change.

Closing Check List for Home Sellers

Pamela STETSON (Abbott & Caserta Realtors) — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 16:14:45 -0500

I was preparing one of my seller's for their upcoming closing and I developed a check list for them to refer to throughout the process. Often, the seller has so much on their plate it is easy to forget what needs to be done to help make their end of the closing --- run smoothly.

1. Set or confirm the closing date and time . Your attorney's office usually communicates the closing date with the buyer's attorney but follow-up so everyone is on the same page. A final walk through of the home with the buyer should be scheduled within 24 hours of closing and soon after the seller has moved out. Each agent and the buyer is there for the final walk through of the home.

2. Please make sure your attorney sends a letter confirming the items (if any ) completed on the inspection list. If items were not going to be completed, the attorney should also communicate the details to the buyer's attorney. If communicated in advance of the closing , no issues come up at the closing table.

3. Bring the following to the closing: a. final water bill marked paid; b. town inspection of fire, safety or Certificate of Occupancy ( CO ); c. proof of fire extinguisher/location, carbon monoxide & smoke detectors.

4. If the home is heated by oil, call the oil company for the current value and bring the statement to the closing. You will need this for reimbursement or payment for fuel left for the new homeowners. You may need to transfer the oil tank insurance to the new homeowner.

5. Contact your gas, electric and water utilities. Communicate the closing date and request a bill marked final meter reading --- bring this to the closing.

6. Review your final estimated closing costs with your attorney. This is sometimes called a HUD or RESPA statement. It should explain all fees, real estate transfer fees, taxes/municipal fees, commissions and other details specific to your closing.

7. If appropriate, order the 1 year Homeowner's Warantee for the buyer and make sure that it is paid for at the time of closing.

8. Always leave a list of phone numbers for the new buyer including the landscaper, pool person and/or snow removel contractor. It is also a good idea to leave current menus from local restaurants, banks, medical facilities --- to help your new homeowner get oriented to the neighborhood.

For more information about buying or selling your largest financial asset, contact me at 201.675.1618 or email CupaT@aol.com .

SOLD /// Wow...What a home in Wyckoff, New Jersey

Pamela STETSON (Abbott & Caserta Realtors) — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 19:31:00 -0500

Abbott And Caserta

Pamela Stetson

Office:
2016751618
Email:
CupaT@aol.com

www.447WindhamNorth.com

You cannot get any better than this....

SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD

447 Windham Court North
Wyckoff, NJ 07481

Move right in to this wonderfully planned and decorated home. The Master Suite on the first floor affords years of comfort with it's own private balcony overlooking a lush landscape. The former model townhome has excellent appointments throughout including a HUGH walk-out basement with lots of windows, media area, game room and like-new full bath. This home lives large! Yet, it is so easy to care for. AND, best of all --- a TWO car garage on grade! What more can you ask for?

$799,000

SOLD SOLD SOLD --- Rio Vista, 11 DeGraaf Court, Mahwah, NJ 07430

Pamela STETSON (Abbott & Caserta Realtors) — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 08:21:39 -0500

Abbott And Caserta

Pamela Stetson

Office:
2016751618
Email:
CupaT@aol.com

SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD

www.DeGraafCourt.com

Luxury Appointments right at home.

Sunday, JUNE 14

1 to 4 PM

11 DeGraaf Court
Mahwah, NJ 07430

This is by far --- the home you want to see and experience for yourself. No detail has been spared - inside or outside. The home is decorator perfect & updates include newer custom chefs granite kitchen with stainless steel appliances. All new hardwood floors and marble throughout the home. Entertainers dining room, large great room, music room, and beautiful office in the front of the home with french doors and separate entrance. Upstairs features a huge master bedroom suite with tray ceilings, gorgeouse window treatments and features custom cabinetry in the bedroom, bath and in the walk-in closets. The master is a true respite from a hectic day! The upstairs features FIVE more bedrooms and 2 full baths and a back stairway to the main level. Suptuous details and dripping with moulding & trim this home will take your breath away. The lower level features a custom built in home theater, game area, granite kitchen with a dishwasher, full refridge, microwave and sink ... steps away is the CUSTOM refridgerated WINE Cellar. The outdoors is a lush oasis with gunite pool, paver walkways and patios, full VIKING outdoor kitchen and HUGE private back yard --- large enough to play soccer, football or even baseball!!!. The RV community has it's own private pool, tennis courts, gym and annual fees do apply. *** NJ Monthly magazine says Mahwah is the Best Place to Live in Bergen County --- 2 years in a row!

$1,799,900

Real Estate in OAKLAND, NJ is MOVING!!!

Pamela STETSON (Abbott & Caserta Realtors) — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 12:44:43 -0500

WOW...the homes are moving in Oakland, New Jersey. Sited by Business Week as one of THE TOP FIFTY places in the US to raise children. Over 55 homes have gone under contract of have SOLD in the last 3 months... This is great news.

You can see that there is GREAT Value in OAKLAND as well --- the average price of the homes u/c or SOLD is $ 457,387. This is fabulous for first time home buyers...low interest rates plus an $ 8,000 home buying credit for those first time home buyers is spurring lots of interest and opportunity.

BUT you have to act quickly if you do see a home in this lovely, family friendly town. I have been in several multiple offer situations over the past week because the prices are priced RIGHT! And, because the homes are mostly under the $ 500,000 mark.

So if you are searching for an opportunity in OAKLAND, NJ --- bring your checkbook!

Status

Average

Minimum

Maximum

Avg DOM

Under Contract

$462,668

$125,000

$1,250,000

Sold

$438,278

$165,000

$790,000

119

Total Listings

Sold properties closed averaging (95.64%) of their final list price (FLP). This reflects a (4.36%) difference between property sale prices and their *FLP's.


	Amount
Average Price Sold Comps:	$438,278
Data Indicated List Price:**	$457,387

Ramsey REAL ESTATE is MOVING!

Pamela STETSON (Abbott & Caserta Realtors) — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 12:25:16 -0500

While researching sales data today on the NJMLS, I have found some interesting statistics. Homes in Ramsey and surrounding towns are MOVING! Yes, in the past three months, over 43 homes have gone under contract or have SOLD. The average selling price is $ 688,654 and their final sale prices are within 5.1 % of the asking price --- VERY DIFFERENT THAN OTHER AREA's of the county.

Educate your buyers or they will miss out on some very good purchasing opportunities. NO ONE can market time --- but --- if you buy now and live in your newly purchased home, you will be profitable in the long run.

Status

Average

Minimum

Maximum

Avg DOM

Under Contract

$732,725

$389,900

$1,334,000

Sold

$655,237

$350,000

$1,075,000

Total Listings

Sold properties closed averaging (94.9%) of their final list price (FLP). This reflects a (5.1%) difference between property sale prices and their *FLP's.


	Amount
Average Price Sold Comps:	$655,237
Data Indicated List Price:**	$688,654

MAHWAH Real Estate is MOVING!

Pamela STETSON (Abbott & Caserta Realtors) — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 12:09:46 -0500

Things are moving .... in Mahwah, New Jersey. I have researched several towns in the Bergen County area this morning on the NJMLS. In the period ending today over 40 homes have gone under contract or have sold in the last 3 months. The average price of a home under contract or SOLD during this period is $785,338.

Now is the time to sell because the spring/summer market is here and interest rates are at an all time LOW. Buyers have their choices and sellers are negotiating. Perhaps in contrast to other areas of the country...Mahwah and Bergen County is MOVING!

Status

Average

Minimum

Maximum

Avg DOM

Under Contract

$750,153

$349,900

$2,199,000

Sold

$736,370

$250,000

$1,250,000

153

Total Listings

Sold properties closed averaging (93.35%) of their final list price (FLP). This reflects a (6.65%) difference between property sale prices and their *FLP's.

Amount

Average Price Sold Comps:

$736,370

Data Indicated List Price**:

$785,338

Lockbox Showings at an all time HIGH!

Pamela STETSON (Abbott & Caserta Realtors) — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 07:52:41 -0500

GREAT NEWS...Lockbox showings are at an all-time high (since data collection began in July 2007) with 32,783 in May - up nearly 9% from April. Daily showings average at 1,058 according to today's NJMLS. ;)

I have been experiencing the same, with showings increased on each of my listings. AND, I have been out with buyers daily. Recently, I have been in two multi-offer bidding situations on area homes. Homes are priced more reasonably, seller's are negotiable and buyers are getting more educated about the type of offers to make on a home.

Let's face it. Bergen County is NOT like any other area of the country. First, there is the supply and demand of homes priced under $900,000. If they are priced well --- they sell. Second, people have to live in this area because of jobs, schools, colleges, airports, etc. Third, the taxes ( although many do balk at this) are very reasonable given the quality of schools, roads, airports, water supply, municipal amenities like paid police & fire, sewers, astro-turf fields, etc.

There is a lot of activity now compared to last year. The stock market has shown quite a bit of life; spring has brought some new green into the area; there is more positive news; and, you never can time the market --- real estate or stocks. Do you want to buy at the HIGH or buy now...when it is at an all time low...Let me know what you think...about real estate in Bergen County or your area.

Hot Summer Safety Tips --- Cool Energy Savings

Pamela STETSON (Abbott & Caserta Realtors) — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 09:07:15 -0500

Summer is a great time to get your home in shape --- for sale or showings --- or just to keep your home in tip top shape all year round. But, before you take on the challenge of sprucing up your surroundings make sure that you take the time to ensure your safety and the safety of your family & friends.

As a former "energy communications marketing consultant" for a major NJ utility we would often remind customers about the benefits of sprucing up your home but...at the same time...we would remind customers about common sense approaches to home projects. Caring for your home will provide long term results to your bottom line when you ultimately sell your home --- resulting in long term financial benefits AND usually, these will help your short term energy savings, too.

Let's take a look at the following TIPS:

Before you dig --- call your energy provider

Summer is a great time to plant flowers, trees and shrubs. Pruning in and around the foundation of your home is critical! Keep roots away from your foundation and allow at least 2 feet between plantings and the base of your home. Trim trees or shrubs away from windows and doors. Do plant shade trees on the south and west side of your home to provide maximum energy efficiency. BUT, before you dig --- call your energy provider. You do not want a simple home project dig to turn into a disaster by hitting a power or gas line. Your energy company is happy to come out and mark your yard --- providing you with peace of mind about your project.

Here is a great how-to video for shade tree planting:

www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=categorySelect&category=Project%20Planning&ytID=C9MxrQyyvxs

Take NOTE of electric lines

When using a ladder outdoors, be aware of the location of electric lines running to your home. You may think you have plenty of distance but when you move the very tall ladder --- make sure you have plenty of distance between you and the wires connected to your home.

NEVER operate electric trimmers or equipment

with wet hands, in wet grass or around wet shrubs. Make sure that your electrical cords are grounded, are heavy-duty and make sure that they are not damaged in any way. A sure way to electric shock --- is through a split cord or a cord that has been repaired with TAPE. Better to get a new cord --- than get the shock of your life.

Cleaning your gutters, windows or your TV antenna

Hire a professional. It is just that simple. More accidents happen when weekend warriors take the ladder to the roof line or by walking on a roof. Unless you do this for a living --- why jeordize your life and limb, so to speak because you want to take on this type of project. Yes, I know you can do it ... but ... think of all the time & money wasted from trips to the hospital resulting in broken arms or legs. Our rule at home --- if it is more than one story tall --- call in a professional.

Water your landscape --- efficiently

Whether you have a sprinkler system or not, use timers for a more effective and water savings way to keep your lawn green AND keep green in your pockets. Check local ordinances for the best time to water based on watering restrictions that may be in effect in your area but most lawn care professional tend to agree that the best time to water is very, very early in the morning.

Cool your budget --- Raise your thermostat

By raising your thermostat from 73 to 78 degrees can save you as much as 15% in energy costs! It is so easy to do --- it helps save energy, saves money on your bill AND most importantly, helps your local community to maximize and share energy resources. For more energy savings tips see www.pseg.com.saveenergy .

There are also many energy saving tips and saving opportunities at your local hardware or home center or visit www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=categorySelect&category=Project%20Planning&Ne=10000&N=0 for energy saving tips AND project you can do!

Looking for help with your project go to: www.lowes.com/videos . They have a library of do-it-yourself project info.

Another great resource is http://www.energystar.gov/ . There you will find menus of energy saving choices for your home or business.

Remember to have FUN in the SUN --- and stay safe all summer long. Simple upkeep to your home will result in monthly savings and it will add value to your largest financial asset --- YOUR HOME!

Ramapo River Reserve --- STUNNING LOCATION on the River's Edge

Pamela STETSON (Abbott & Caserta Realtors) — Fri, 15 May 2009 09:40:42 -0500

Ramapo RIVER Views!

See one of the best locations in the Ramapo River Reserve ...

Beautiful townhome with soaring 12 foot ceilings set just above the water's edge. You can literally walk out from the finished lower level patio to miles of footpaths, hiking, kayaking and more. And, inside --- luxury appointment are featured throughout the home.

The complex features a pool, gym and clubhouse, too. All within 30 miles of NYC and major highways --- yet peaceful and quiet. Come take a look for yourself this weekend.

LET ME SHOW YOU THIS HOME --- Contact me for your personal tour at CupaT@aol.com . Or cllick through the web page below. You can print photos or a brochure, if you like...

www.18TimberlineLane.com

You cannot get any better than this price and this location! Call or email for more details...

RIO VISTA // Open House - 11 DeGraaf Court, Mahwah

Pamela STETSON (Abbott & Caserta Realtors) — Sun, 03 May 2009 08:41:53 -0500

Join US on SUNDAY, JUNE 14 for a beautiful HOME TOUR experience ---

www.DeGraafCourt.com

11 De Graaf Court

Mahwah, New Jersey 07430

Sunday, June 14, 2009

1 pm to 4 pm

For more information contact me at CupaT@aol.com or call

201.675.1618 Cell .

Mahwah TAX Revaluation --- UPDATE

Pamela STETSON (Abbott & Caserta Realtors) — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 10:36:16 -0500

The township of Mahwah last had it's revaluation over 6 years ago and plans are underway for a new town Revaluation. The plans were originally scheduled for municipal assessments to take place in 2007. The mayor and town council had realized that significant changes were taking place in the Real Estate market so, they applied for and received a 3 one-year extensions. This will bring the revaluation to 2011.

The collection and preliminary field work and assessments will beging during 2009-10. Values will be established in Octover of 2010 for assessments in 2011. Property owners will be notified to inspections via MAIL prior to inspections in each neighborhood in Mahwah.

For more information, see http://www.mahwahtwp.org/Cit-e-Access/webpage.cfm?TID=64&TPID=6805 . There is a neat tax calculator featured on this page as well!

For more information about buying or selling your largest financial asset, contact me at 201.675.1618 or email CupaT@aol.com .

REALTOR Tour / OPEN HOUSE --- Rio Vista, 11 DeGraaf Court, Mahwah, NJ 07430

Pamela STETSON (Abbott & Caserta Realtors) — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 19:42:58 -0500

Join me on Tuesday, JUNE 16th

from 11 am to 3 PM

Be one of the first to preview

this stunning custom home in the private community

of Rio Vista Mahwah.

Over one flat acre of lushly landscaped property.

Surrounded by mountain views, and fabulous community

amenities including tennis, full service gym, club house and more!

See www.DeGraafCourt.com

for more information.

Take Seminary Road left onto Upper Walsh Drive, right onto DeGraaf Court.

Email me for more info - CupaT@aol.com

or call

201.675.1618

Active Adult Living --- Close to BERGEN COUNTY --- Kinnelon!

Pamela STETSON (Abbott & Caserta Realtors) — Sat, 11 Apr 2009 08:16:19 -0500

Kinnelon Borough is a fabulous, bucolic "low density " community in Morris County and it is located about 7 miles west of Wayne, New Jersey. The town has wonderful parks, nature trails and rolling hills with many beautiful upscale neighborhoods situated around the many lakes and parks in the area affording a close proximity to New York City ( within 30 miles ).

The town's largest lake, Lake Kinnelon, is in the center of the private, gated community of Smoke Rise. This private community is set on over 3,500 acres of parklike properties and features Lake Kinnelon, a full service restaurant facility, horseback riding, tennis, picnicing, hiking and much, much more. Smoke Rise Club - Home Page

The town also features shopping and offers the convenience of routes 23, 46, 287, near route 208 and offers a midpoint between NYC and western NJ and Pennsylvania. Recently, new area shopping centers including such big name stores as LOWES, HOME DEPO, Bed, Bath & Beyond, TARGET, WalMart & Borders have all moved into the area on Route 23 offering area residence even more convenience. Kinnelon is located within 10 minutes of Mahwah and Bergen County, too.

One of the area's living highlights includes a relatively NEW Active Adult Community called KINNELON Heights. This unique development is located off route 23, Kinnelon Road to Maple Avenue offers residents a gated community, terrific floor plans and one floor living with 2 bedrooms & 2 baths and a few even offer garages. All at affordable prices. I have recently listed a terrific, like-new unit on Wilshire Terrace. This condo is located on the first floor with no stairs to the unit or in the unit. It is set back from traffic and affords a quiet setting.

Priced at $314,888!

You can see more information about the home at Real Estate Listings and Homes for Sale - Realtor.com .

For more information about Kinnelon and the surrounding area, click on the following web sites.

Kinnelon, New Jersey

Kinnelon, New Jersey - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Kinnelon, New Jersey2

Library's Home Page

------------

Thinking of buying or selling your home in Kinnelon, New Jersey?

Let me help you. Know the sales value of your new home and your new neighborhood * based on actual market comps. Allow me to present a Comparative Market Analysis to you that is customized to your home, finances and your specific needs. This will give you detailed information about pricing and selling your home in the current market or BUYING your home in your new neighborhood. For more information about buying or selling your largest financial asset, contact me at CupaT@aol.com.

www.pamelastetson.com

Rio Vista Mahwah --- Luxury Lifestyle, Prime Location

Pamela STETSON (Abbott & Caserta Realtors) — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 09:05:33 -0500

Rio Vista ESTATEs --- Luxury Lifestyle in a Prime Location

The Rio Vista Community offers luxury living in Northern Bergen County. This home, on DeGraaf Court, features a LANDSCAPE award winning yard with built in gunite pool, LYNX outdoor kitchen and lushly landscaped grounds on a hugh flat 1 ACRE plus private yard.

Set on a cul-de-sac in the heart of the community, the home has been completely renovated and updated. Custom features include a commercial kitchen with granite and stainless steel appliances. The home is an entertainers delight with a huge great room, music room, large dining room and perfect, open floor plan

--- just perfect for family gatherings and events.

www.DeGraafCourt.com

*** see the new web page for details ***

Upstairs features a sumptous Master Suite with trey ceiling, custom window treatments, large marble bath with whirlpool , shower , custom cabinetry and marble accents and full, custom closets.

This floor also features 5 more bedrooms and 2 totally remodeled baths and a back stairway.

The lower level is just wonderful with full kitchen with granite counters.

Custom built-in theater and game area and a 2,000 bottle Refridgerated WINE CELLER.

This home has it all --- and you can, too.

CALL ME for more information. Asking price available upon request.

CupaT@aol.com or 201.675.1618.

Live the LUXURY LIFESTYLE in the heart of RIO VISTA. So close to NYC, golf, all major highways. The community has it's own pool, tennis, gym and club house facilities.

New Jersey Monthly Magazines has sited MAHWAH as THE BEST PLACE to live in Bergen County --- two years in a row! See http://njmonthly.com/articles/best-of-Jersey/best-places-to-live---the-complete-top-towns-list-.html .

Go Take a WALK --- MBWA Today

Pamela STETSON (Abbott & Caserta Realtors) — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 08:42:08 -0500

Take a Walk!

Get out of your seat. Push away from your desk. Put down the phone and...yes, stop hitting those keys on your phone or your computer. I know. It is comfortable behind all that technology. It is all too easy to just send communications out and see where it lands later. It is easy to just leave a message either via text, email or via a phone message. It is easy to research, compile statistics and send reports via the internet often on deaf ears. Agents respond to email inquiries with text messages. Brokers send attachments to their agents blackberries giving them a pep-talk and sales statistics.

Success, especially today, depends on face-to-face interaction between human beings. Trust is built by our relationships. And, relationships are built upon communications. True communications is a complex interaction of the spoken word, non-verbal cues of expression, active listening and a true exchange of ideas. Often, it takes many face-to-face interactions in order for the basis of communications and understanding to take place. Often, people do not say or write what they mean. Not because they are trying to hide their wants or needs...it is because they may not know what they want or they may not understand what they really need. Agents may not have scratched the surface of understanding of what the buyer or seller objectives really are.

In the 1940's, Dave Packard of Hewlett Packard, coined a management technique called, "management by walking around or mbwa." Ahead of it's time, this technique encourage executives to get out of their offices and cubicles into the workplace environment. This easy to do technique enable face-to-face communications including active listening, personal involvement and setting the organization goals --- together --- which ultimately ended up with business success. This personal involvement shed titles and managment levels, walls were literally removed from offices and true two way employee engagement took hold.

What does this mean for real estate brokers and agents?

1. Visit as many listings as possible.

It means you need to get out of your home or office. You need to interact with the marketplace in order to succeed. You need to see as many homes for sale as you possibly can --- not view the pictures on the net. You should see them up front, inside and outside. Towns differ, streets differ and homes differ. You need to experience the differences in order to communicate them to your buyers and you need to understand what is on the market in order to list homes effectively. Brokers and office managers so they can look beyond the statistics.

2. Brokers need to get in the trenches.

Brokers and managers should answer the phones when people call. What are people reading in the ads that are placed? Are the ads and media vehicles effective? Brokers and managers need to sit amongst the agents to understand --- what their real point of view may be. Brokers and managers need to visit homes and tour homes for sale. They should go on listing presentations from time to time.

3. Agents need to meet with their buyers and sellers regularly.

This is beyond the weekly call report or email. This should be a regularly scheduled meeting --- so that agents can hear, first hand, what the sellers needs are. In the case of a buyer --- if you are not with a buyer in person on a regular basis. They are not an "A" buyer and they may be visiting other agents and/or brokers.

4. Reduce Office Meetings.

This seems to fly in the face of the MBWA principle but...if you look at the format, weekly staff meetings are not effective. Management talking at agents with managements agenda --- is not particularly engaging. Weekly meetings should be in small groups with a specific goal or agenda in mind. They should be targeted at the level of the agent --- top producer vs new agent, for example. Group staff meetings could be held monthly to bring everyone together BUT even these meetings should have an agenda driven my the participants, not the other way around.

5. Walk the Walk.

Brokers and managers need to get in and around their agents. They should have an open door policy and they should, on a regular basis, sit where the agents sit. They should walk where the agents walk. Leading by example is by far the most powerful tool a leader has in her toolkit. Understanding where the calls are coming from by actually answering the phone --- give remarkable insight to the market.

6. TALK

Believe it or not... I am a technology fan but.... we have lost sight of personal, face-to-face talk time. It has become far to easy to just send out one way communications in the form of texts and emails --- without taking the time to talk with another person AND more importantly --- to LISTEN. Take time out. Make that call. Visit --- in person. Your business will take a remarkable turn for the better.

Good NEWS --- NOW IS THE TIME TO BUY --- From Headlines this week

Pamela STETSON (Abbott & Caserta Realtors) — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 09:05:11 -0500

Let's take a look at some of the headlines this week. We will hear a lot of the woulda, coulda, shoulda's next year when people wonder why they did not lock into that rate or buy that GREAT home in 2009.

I have recently witnessed multiple offer situations in the Bergen County area --- Oakland, for example --- on homes priced below $450,000. In Mahwah, several million dollar plus homes have gone into attorney review in the past 7 days. ( now we know a lot can happen between now and the closing date but that is a lot of activity in seven days. ) A set of buyers I am working with have lost out on 4 homes that they absolutely LOVED and could afford because they wanted to wait...and think about it.

If you are interested in buying --- Now is the time to do it. Rates are at 20 year lows. Prices are down. And, tax laws have changed to help first time buyers. So...what are you waiting for?

We have to read and understand the NEWS --- to understand that the market has changed --- AGAIN!

1. Mortgage RATES DOWN - Again --- The lowest in 20 YEARS!

U.S. mortgage applications jumped last week as record low interest rates spurred a surge in demand for home refinancing loans, data from an industry group showed on Wednesday. The Mortgage Bankers Association said its seasonally adjusted index of mortgage applications, which includes both purchase and refinance loans, increased 32.2 percent to 1,159.4 for the week ended March 20.

Borrowing costs on 30-year fixed-rate mortgages, excluding fees, averaged 4.63 percent, down 0.26 percentage point from the previous week, reaching a record low, the MBA said. http://www.cnbc.com/id/29873758

2. Durable Goods UPSIDE SURPRISE

New orders for long-lasting manufactured goods unexpectedly rebounded in February, rising for the first time in seven months, according to a government report on Wednesday that could bring some cheer to an economy mired in recession. The Commerce Department said durable goods orders rose 3.4 percent to $165.6 billion in February, the biggest increase since December 2007, after a revised 7.3 percent plunge the prior month, previously reported as a 4.5 percent decline. http://www.cnbc.com/id/29874481

3. Sales of existing homes are UP!

Existing-home sales increased in February, reversing losses in January. Even so, sales activity remains relatively soft, reflecting additional layoffs and buyers waiting for housing provisions in the economic stimulus package to take effect, according to the National Association of Realtors^®.

4. Stock Market RALLY has momentum!

The long-awaited U.S. government plan to rid banks of money-losing assets has injected some desperately needed optimism into Wall Street after stocks hit 12-year lows earlier this month. Judging by the 20 percent run-up in the benchmark S&P 500 index since its March 9 bear-market closing low, there appears to be a burgeoning consensus that some confidence maybe returning to the marketplace.

http://www.reuters.com/article/newsOne/idUSTRE52N7OJ20090325

5. Renters become BUYERS as homes become more affordable

In some U.S. markets, prices appear to have fallen enough to make buying cheaper than renting. Mix that with mortgage rates that are near record lows and renters who want to become buyers are rejoicing.

"The U.S. government is helping bail out those who bought at the top, but I got my own personal stimulus package through falling home prices and low interest rates on mortgages," said Wilusz, who works at Ameriprise Financial.

http://www.reuters.com/article/newsOne/idUSTRE52M3MS20090325

Real Estate is local --- so you should call an agent who know the local market, knows price opportunities and who KNOWS how to market and SELL your home in this climate. Don't use a crystal ball to predict the bottom. Understand your finances and get the best rates & prices --- particularly in Bergen County, NJ.

Call 201.675.1618 cell or email me at CupaT@aol.com. I am happy to help.

OPEN HOUSE / 16 Stone Fence Road, Oakland, New Jersey

Pamela STETSON (Abbott & Caserta Realtors) — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 10:15:22 -0500

JOIN US for our OPEN HOUSE!

or see

www.StoneFenceRd.com

JUST PACK & MOVE *THIS HOME IS CERTIFIED* 4 BD, 3.5 BTH COLONIAL ON ONE OF THE NICEST CUL-DE-SAC STREETS IN OAKLAND. VERY CLOSE TO THE FRANKLIN LAKES BORDER. THIS HOME OFFERS A RESORT-STYLE YARD WITH AN IN-GROUND POOL, FULL PAVER PATIO & WALKWAYS, MATURE LANDSCAPING & EXTREMELY PRIVATE YARD -- ALL ON A PRIVATE CUL-DE-SAC. ATTENTION TO EVERY DETAIL IS EVIDENT. NEW KITCHEN W/ STAINLESS STEEL APPLAINCES & CUSTOM CABINETS. NEWER SLIDERS TO EXPANSIVE PATIOSCAPE. FAMILY ROOM FEATURES FPL AND SLIDERS TO NEWER PATIO. UPSTAIRS FEATURES NEWER LARGE MASTER SUITE W/BATH, WHIRLPOOL TUB & SEP SHOWER & NEWER ARCHED WINDOWS. NEWER HALL BATH W/TWO SINKS AND CUSTOM CABINETS. 2 OTHER LARGE BEDROOMS. 3RD BD IS HUGE W/OWN NEWER FULL BATH.HARDWOOD FLRS THROUGHOUT. GARAGE ON GRADE W/NEW GARAGE DOORS. BASEMENT IS LIKE-FINISHED & HAS WARANTEE.

THIS HOME IS A *CERTIFIED HOME* WHICH HAS IT'S PHYSICAL,RADON & PEST INSPECTION,TITLE & FLOOD CERT & INCLUDES A 1 YR HOMEOWNERS' WARANTEE. Call me at 201.675.1618

Warren Buffet Wishes he was 21 Again - Me, too.

Pamela STETSON (Abbott & Caserta Realtors) — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 08:36:46 -0500

Warren Buffet tells CNBC's Becky Quick --- " I wish I was 21 again! because the opportunity to make money is NOW. Yes, the economy is 'gummed up' currently but once the stimulas takes hold and the bank's are sured up --- people will make money. The opportunity is now. "

As I listen to his commentary in a televised interview with Rebecca Quick he answers questions sent in by viewers, I will try to capture some key points that will have a direct impact on buying and selling stocks and ultimately will help bolster consumer confidence.

He tells Becky, "Swift action was necessary last September because we were going over Niagra Falls. The government did do and continues to do the right thing. It is understandable that the general public does not understand and we need better communications to re-assure them --- but very smart people are paying very close attention to the situation. I can understand their fear, however, there is no immediate solution. The solutions will come and results will be seen but it is not an overnight fix.

That said, we need the banking system. It is not us and them --- we are all interconnected. Once the banking system continues to be stablized and that is underway now the people who have done the right thing may have to help those who did not do the right thing ( isn't that the American way?) --- stability will return to the market. Confidence will return. The power of the United States means everything will be all right. We have the greatest economic machine in history. AND, the right people --- which by the way --- are very smart & articulate are in place to do everything that needs to be done. " ( referring to the President and the current administration.)

I am telling you once more, that I wish I was in my twenties instead of the seventies because --- there is money to be made at this time. "

He seems so down to earth yet so knowledgable. He is frank and to the point when he emphasized that just because corporations are having trouble does not mean that they are bad companies or bad investments. You have to recognize and trust good investment opportunities. The same is true for real estate. Last year we were on the edge but now it has past and there are very good opportunites that will not be here --- ever again.

Dig deeper than the scary headlines --- because they are designed to be sound bites, like shock and awe. Read and arm yourself with information. Ask your investment advisor before you jump in willy nilly into the market and if you are considering real estate use your realtor for advice and council --- each person is different and so is your investment scenario and tolerance.

And, I wish I was in my 20's armed with the knowledge and experience that I have now. My wish list is way different today than when I was in my twenties ( now it is family, health, security and I would not change that for anything), however, I agree with Mr. Buffet --- I wish I was in my twenties again.

http://www.cnbc.com/id/29592831

First Time Homebuyers and the new TAX Credit - Explained

Pamela STETSON (Abbott & Caserta Realtors) — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 13:22:43 -0600

Believe it or not --- there is alot to be happy about in the real estate market.

First, real estate is local and in our area --- prices have adjusted and we are beginning to see signs of activity. Showings have increased over the same time last year. Second, interest rates are at an all time LOW. Buyer's that have good credit ( and I am working with a few ) are getting a terrific rate and they are getting loans. Next, first time home buyers can be happy about the newly crafted TAX CREDIT. With the help of our local mls board, I have tried to outline the details below:

About the Tax Credit - Two Stages
On July 30, 2008, the Federal Government passed the Housing and Economic RecoveryAct (H.R. 3221). That legislation contains a provision that enables any individual or household that hasn't owned a home for at least three years to take up to a $7,500 tax credit if they purchased their home after April 9, 2008 and before December 31, 2008.

On February 17, 2009, President Barack Obama signed into law H.R. 1, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. Included in that legislation are modifications to the Homebuyer Tax Credit passed in July. First-time homebuyers purchasing a principal residence on or after January 1, 2009 and before December 1, 2009 can now take up to an $8,000 tax credit, reducing their income tax liability.

Who is Eligible
Any individual or household that hasn't owned a home for at least three years is eligible.The home must be a single-family unit (house, condo, co-op), a primary residence and be located in the United States. Income limits are $75,000 for individuals and $150,000 for households. Individuals whose income exceeds the $75,000 limit but isn't more than $95,000 can still take the credit, but on a reduced basis. The same applies to households earning up to $150,000.

How it Works - 2008 First-Time Buyers
The actual credit amount is equal to 10 percent of the home purchase amount, up to a maximum of $7,500. First-time buyers who meet the above criteria and who purchased their home on or after April 9, 2008 are eligible for the deduction on their 2008 tax return. First-time buyers who purchase their home in 2009 can claim the deduction on their 2009 tax return, provided the purchase is made prior to July 1, 2009. Authorization for the credit expires on July 1, 2009.

Paying it Back
To help keep the program cost-effective for taxpayers, the federal government requires the tax credit to be paid back in small, 6.67 percent increments over 15 years. For that reason, some analysts have likened the credit to a 15-year, interest free loan to help make home buying more affordable.

How it Works - 2009 First-Time Buyers
The actual credit amount is equal to 10 percent of the home purchase amount, up to a maximum of $8,000. First-time buyers who meet the above criteria and who purchased their home on or after January 1, 2009 are eligible for the deduction on their 2009 tax return, provided the purchase is made prior to December 1, 2009. Authorization for the credit expires on December 1, 2009. The new legislation does not require first-time buyers to pay the credit back. However, the full credit amount is recovered at the time sale if the home is sold within 3 years.

Now it is best to check with your real estate attorney, your accountant and your real estate agent --- to make sure that you qualify and to keep up with the changing laws. These changes will enable buyers to get more for their money both from reduced interest rates, reduced home prices AND the new tax credit. First time home buyers have a lot to be happy about!

For more information see:

Or contact me at CupaT@aol.com or 201.675.1618 for more local information and assistance.