Gina Chirico Real Estate Blog

If You Don't Buy a House Now, You're Stupid or Broke

Sat, 12 Dec 2009 08:58:31 -0600

Although I do not think you are stupid or broke if you do not buy a house now and as a piggy back to many of my first-time homebuyer and repeat buyer posts emphasizing why the time to buy is NOW, the $8000 tax credit and expansion and "fence jumping", I wanted to share this post written by Michele Reneau regarding Marc Roth's article in Business Week which touches upon some excellent points as to why now is the time to buy a home!

With the combination of historically low interest rates, incentives like the extension of the $8000 tax credit to First-time Homebuyers and the New Tax Credit of up to $6,500 for qualified move-up/empty nester/repeat home buyers (i.e., existing homeowners), there is no reason for New Jersey buyers and sellers to still be waiting on the fence. It takes time to buy and sell your New Jersey home.

Don't wait until the last minute...wouldn't you like to be in your new house BEFORE we spring forward?

Via Michele Reneau, Realtor, CRS, ABR, GRI ~ Charleston, SC Relocation Experts Team (Certified Staging Professional (CSP) Elite Instructor):

Have you read this article yet? It was featured in Business Week. My first thought, wow! what a blunt and harsh statement! But the writer, Mark Roth, uses this headturning title to get your attention to make excellent points for those who are on the fence. Namely that interest rates are at an all time low, in fact, the lowest in 40 years. He noted that in the late 70s, rates hit a high of 18%! Can you even imagine buying a house at 18%? I personally can't fathom it as I bought my first house with an FHA loan while I was in college for 7% in 2001. In the 80s, when rates dropped from 12% to 9%, my parents practically danced their way to the 1^st refinance of their home. Generation X'ers probably would never dream of purchasing a home above 7% given all we have ever known are super low rates hovering between 5-6%. Mr. Roth points out the history of previous interest rates as well as the impact of rates on one's purchasing power. I happen to agree with his prediction that as the economy becomes more stable, interest rates WILL rise to hedge inflation. My prediction has been that by this time next year, rates will have risen 1-2% at a minimum.

In Charleston, the average sale is $250,000. Assuming a 5% down payment at 5% interest on a 30 year fixed, your monthly principal and interest payment would be $1275. If rates rise to 7%, your payment increases to $1580/month. Some buyers may be on the fence because they fear prices may drop further. Consider this. If there is a 10% decrease in price and the $250,000 falls to $225,000 in one year, but you wait to purchase and the interest rate rises to 7%, your payment will be $1422. You spend more money per month plus at the higher interest rate, you pay more interest over the life of the loan. Real estate appreciation is always a cycle and as the economy stabilizes, values will level out. Steve Harney is already analyzing data this is happening in many markets and that this will occur by 2014 in many states. Making a home purchase is still a decision that should be weight carefully and is not for everyone. One important consideration will depend on how long you plan to stay in the home.

Mark Roth summed up the article, "What I'm trying to impress upon everyone is that if you are planning on being a homeowner now and/or in the foreseeable future, or if you are looking to move your family into a bigger home, then pay more attention to the interest rates than the price of the home. If you have a steady job, good credit, and the down payment, then you really are being offered the gift of a lifetime."

The Charleston Relocation Experts team specializes in helping families make good decisions. We do NOT think you are stupid or broke if you don't buy a house right now. But if you are considering purchasing a home and would like a FREE consultation, we'd love to sit down with you and help you weigh your options and direct you to a qualified, caring mortgage professional that will help you with the numbers.

Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CRETeam

We are approved by Boeing 3^rd party relocation company as Charleston Boeing Relocation Specialists with Carolina One Real Estate in Charleston, SC. Visit us at www.CharlestonRelocationExperts.com. Contact Top Real Estate Agents, North Charleston, SC Relocation Experts, Licensed Realtors® in South Carolina at 843-849-5217 or info@CharlestonRelocationExperts.com to list your home for sale or to purchase a home in Charleston, Goose Creek, Summerville, North Charleston, Hanahan, Mount Pleasant and the surrounding areas in Charleston County, Berkeley County or Dorchester County. The Charleston Relocation Experts Team specializes in relocations, first time homebuyers and creating marketing exposure to sell your home in the Charleston SC Real Estate market.

Michele Reneau, ABR, GRI, CRS

www.CharlestonRelocationExperts.com

Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CRETeam

Gina Chirico, Sales Associate

973-715-1158 (cell)

973-992-6363 ext 116 (office)

Gina.Chirico@PrudentialNewJersey.com

http://GinaChiricoRealEstate.com

****With deep roots in the Essex County, I service buyers and sellers throughout many Essex County communities and neighboring Morris, Passaic and Union Counties, specializing in the entire West Essex Communities (including Fairfield, Caldwell, West Caldwell, North Caldwell, Roseland, Essex Fells, Verona and Cedar Grove) and my hometown areas of Belleville, Bloomfield and Nutley.****

When Opportunity Knocks...Make Sure Gina Chirico is There to Answer Your Door!

West Essex at a Glance ~ North Caldwell New Jersey Real Estate Market Reports and Stats for November 2009

Sat, 05 Dec 2009 14:13:25 -0600

West Essex at a Glance

November 2009

Real Estate Market Reports and Stats for North Caldwell New Jersey 07006

North Caldwell, New Jersey 07006 Single Family Real Estate Market Report and Stats as of November 2009:

Active Listings: 32
New Listings in November: 0
Under Contracts in November: 5
Solds in November: 2
Months Supply on the Market: 6.4
Absorption ratio: 16% (only 16% of the total inventory went U/C in November, leaving 84% of the inventory unsold)

There are currently 4 rental properties available in North Caldwell, New Jersey and there are no multi-family homes available on the market as of November 2009.

Although maintaining its own grammar school, North Caldwell is part of the West Essex Regional School District, serving the sending districts of Essex Fells, Fairfield, North Caldwell and Roseland. Although separate from Caldwell and West Caldwell, all three towns share the same zip code (07006).

Search homes for sale in North Caldwell, NJ 07006. Search properties for rent in North Caldwell, New Jersey 07006. Search all homes for sale in New Jersey zip code 07006.

More information about The West Essex Community of North Caldwell New Jersey and additional West Essex Communities can be found at West Essex at a Glance ~ The Communities Within West Essex.

COMMITTED TO OUR SCHOOLS!

COMMITTED TO OUR COMMUNITIES!!

Proudly serving the Communities of West Essex AND a Resident too,

Gina Chirico, Sales Associate

973-715-1158 (cell)

973-992-6363 ext 116 (office)

Gina.Chirico@PrudentialNewJersey.com

http://GinaChiricoRealEstate.com

When Opportunity Knocks...Make Sure Gina Chirico is There to Answer Your Door!

West Essex at a Glance ~ Essex Fells NJ and Roseland NJ Real Estate Market Reports and Stats for November 2009

Sat, 05 Dec 2009 13:57:17 -0600

West Essex at a Glance

Real Estate Market Reports and Stats for Essex Fells, NJ and Roseland, NJ

November 2009

Essex Fells, New Jersey 07021 Single Family Real Estate Market Report and Stats as of November 2009:

Active Listings: 15
New Listings in November: 1
Under Contracts in November: 3
Solds in November: 0
Months Supply on the Market: 5
Absorption ratio: 20% (only 12% of the total inventory went U/C in November, leaving 80% of the inventory unsold)

There are currently no multi-family homes on the market in Essex Fells, New Jersey and only one rental property available for "sharing" at this time.

Roseland, New Jersey 07068 Single Family Real Estate Market Report and Stats as of November 2009:

Active Listings: 40
New Listings in November: 11
Under Contracts in November: 4
Solds in November: 5
Months Supply on the Market: 10
Absorption ratio: 10% (only 10% of the total inventory went U/C in November, leaving 90% of the inventory unsold)

There are currently 3 rental properties available in Roseland New Jersey and no multi-family homes for sale as of the end of November 2009.

Search for homes for sale in Essex Fells, New Jersey 07021. Search rental properties available in Essex Fells, NJ 07021.

Search for homes for sale in Roseland, New Jersey 07068. Search for rental properties available in Roseland, New Jersey 07068.

More information about The West Essex Communities of Essex Fells New Jersey and Roseland, New Jersey and/or additional West Essex Communitiescan be found at West Essex at a Glance ~ The Communities Within West Essex.

Although Essex Fells and Roseland maintain their own grammar schools, they are both sending districts of the West Essex Regional School system for grades 7-12, along with Fairfield and North Caldwell.

COMMITTED TO OUR SCHOOLS!

COMMITTED TO OUR COMMUNITIES!!

Proudly serving the Communities of West Essex AND a Resident too,

Gina Chirico, Sales Associate

973-715-1158 (cell)

973-992-6363 ext 116 (office)

Gina.Chirico@PrudentialNewJersey.com

http://GinaChiricoRealEstate.com

When Opportunity Knocks...Make Sure Gina Chirico is There to Answer Your Door!

West Essex at a Glance ~ Fairfield NJ Real Estate Market Reports and Stats for November 2009

Sat, 05 Dec 2009 13:27:22 -0600

West Essex at a Glance

November 2009

Real Estate Market Reports and Stats for Fairfield New Jersey 07004

Fairfield, New Jersey 07004 Single Family Real Estate Market Report and Stats as of November 2009:

Active Listings: 56
New Listings in November: 8
Under Contracts in November: 4
Solds in November: 7
Months Supply on the Market: 14
Absorption ratio: 10% (only 10% of the total inventory went U/C in November, leaving 90% of the inventory unsold)

Although multi-family homes in Fairfield are rare and there are none currently for sale, there are a handful of multi-generational homes in Fairfield. As of the end of November 2009 there were no multi-family homes listed for sale in Fairfield, NJ. There are currently 5 rental properties available in Fairfield, New Jersey 07004.

Although Fairfield maintains its own grammar schools, it is one of the four sending districts of the West Essex Regional School system for grades 7-12.

Search homes for sale in Fairfield, NJ 07004. Search properties for rent in Fairfield, New Jersey 07004.

More information about The West Essex Community of Fairfield New Jersey and additional West Essex Communities can be found at West Essex at a Glance ~ The Communities Within West Essex.

COMMITTED TO OUR SCHOOLS!

COMMITTED TO OUR COMMUNITIES!!

Proudly serving the Communities of West Essex AND a Resident too,

Gina Chirico, Sales Associate

973-715-1158 (cell)

973-992-6363 ext 116 (office)

Gina.Chirico@PrudentialNewJersey.com

http://GinaChiricoRealEstate.com

When Opportunity Knocks...Make Sure Gina Chirico is There to Answer Your Door!

West Essex at a Glance ~ Cedar Grove NJ and Verona NJ Real Estate Market Reports and Stats for November 2009

Sat, 05 Dec 2009 12:52:43 -0600

West Essex at a Glance

Real Estate Market Reports and Stats for Cedar Grove, NJ and Verona, NJ

November 2009

Cedar Grove, New Jersey 07009 Single Family Real Estate Market Report and Stats as of November 2009:

Active Listings: 59
New Listings in November: 6
Under Contracts in November: 7
Solds in November: 9
Months Supply on the Market: 8.4
Absorption ratio: 12% (only 12% of the total inventory went U/C in November, leaving 88% of the inventory unsold)

Cedar Grove New Jersey does not currently have any multi-family homes for sale. There are currently 8 rental properties available as of the end of November 2009 in Cedar Grove, New Jersey 07009. The Township of Cedar Grove described by the Star Ledger newspaper as "Beautiful Suburbia".

Verona, New Jersey 07044 Single Family Real Estate Market Report and Stats as of November 2009:

Active Listings: 74
New Listings in November: 13
Under Contracts in November: 8
Solds in November: 12
Months Supply on the Market: 9.2
Absorption ratio: 11% (only 11% of the total inventory went U/C in November, leaving 89% of the inventory unsold)

There is currently one multi-family home for sale in Verona NJ and 21 rental properties available in Verona as of the end of November 2009. Verona, New Jersey was voted #1 Best Place to Live in Essex County by New Jersey Monthly in 2008.

More information about The West Essex Communities of Cedar Grove, New Jersey and Verona, New Jersey and additional West Essex Communities can be found at West Essex at a Glance ~ The Communities Within West Essex.

Search homes for sale in Cedar Grove, New Jersey 07009. Search for rental properties in Cedar Grove, New Jersey 07009.

Search homes for sale in Verona, New Jersey 07044. Search properties for rent in Verona, New Jersey 07044.

COMMITTED TO OUR SCHOOLS!

COMMITTED TO OUR COMMUNITIES!!

Proudly serving the Communities of West Essex AND a Resident too,

Gina Chirico, Sales Associate

973-715-1158 (cell)

973-992-6363 ext 116 (office)

Gina.Chirico@PrudentialNewJersey.com

http://GinaChiricoRealEstate.com

When Opportunity Knocks...Make Sure Gina Chirico is There to Answer Your Door!

West Essex at a Glance ~ Caldwell and West Caldwell NJ Real Estate Market Reports and Stats for November 2009

Sat, 05 Dec 2009 12:14:35 -0600

West Essex at a Glance

Market Reports and Stats for Caldwell, NJ and West Caldwell, NJ

November 2009

Caldwell, New Jersey 07006 Single Family Real Estate Market Report and Stats as of November 2009:

Active Listings: 31
New Listings in November: 5
Under Contracts in November: 4
Solds in November: 9
Months Supply on the Market: 7.7
Absorption ratio: 13% (only 13% of the total inventory went U/C in November, leaving 87% of the inventory unsold)

There are currently 2 multi-family homes and 23 rental properties available as of the end of November 2009 inCaldwell, New Jersey 07006.

West Caldwell, New Jersey 07006 Single Family Real Estate Market Report and Stats as of November 2009:

Active Listings: 36
New Listings in November: 5
Under Contracts in November: 3
Solds in November: 7
Months Supply on the Market: 12
Absorption ratio: 10% (10% of the total inventory went U/C in November, leaving 90% of the inventory unsold)

West Caldwell New Jersey does not currently have any multi-homes for sale. There are currently 9 rental properties available as of the end of November 2009 inWest Caldwell, New Jersey 07006.

Presently Caldwell and West Caldwell are part of the same Caldwell school district consisting of four grammar schools, Grover Cleveland Middle School and James Caldwell High School in West Caldwell. Caldwell and West Caldwell have a combined population of approximately 18,000 and are located within 25 miles or so from New York City.

More information about The West Essex Communities of Caldwell and West Caldwell New Jersey and additional West Essex Communitiescan be found at West Essex at a Glance ~ The Communities Within West Essex.

Search homes for sale in Caldwell, New Jersey 07006. Search for rental properties in Caldwell, New Jersey 07006.

Search homes for sale in West Caldwell, New Jersey 07006. Search properties for rent in West Caldwell New Jersey 07006.

COMMITTED TO OUR SCHOOLS!

COMMITTED TO OUR COMMUNITIES!!

Proudly serving the Communities of West Essex AND a Resident too,

Gina Chirico, Sales Associate

973-715-1158 (cell)

973-992-6363 ext 116 (office)

Gina.Chirico@PrudentialNewJersey.com

http://GinaChiricoRealEstate.com

When Opportunity Knocks...Make Sure Gina Chirico is There to Answer Your Door!

What is the proper etiquette for reblogs?

Thu, 03 Dec 2009 13:28:20 -0600

This morning I noticed that my post on Tips for first-time homebuyers, repeat buyers and sellers to close escrow by July 1, 2010 was reblogged. What is the proper etiquette when someone reblogs your post?

Do you comment to them and say thanks for the reblog?
Do you send them a quick email thanking them for reblogging your post?
Do you just take the extra 25 points and pretend that the reblogging didn't take place?

I think the reblogfeature is a great tool to use not only for the writer reblogging it it but also for the original writer. It's almost sort of like an "honor" to have one of your posts reblogged, I think so anyway. As Paddy Pizappi points out in her post about reblogging:

...."ReBlogging is not stealing the original Blogger has given their permission by allowing it. ReBlogging is not the lazy Bloggers way to get ahead, trust me some of the most active Bloggers here reBlog all the time. ReBlogging is a way to spread that ActiveRain to others and to put someone else's good thoughts to work for you."

So back to my initial question....what is the proper etiquette when someone reblogs your post?

In addition, what is the proper etiquette when YOU reblog someone's post?

Do you comment on their original blog with a kudos and say that you are reblogging?
Do you send them an email and let them know you are reblogging?
Do you simply mysteriously reblog and they will find out the next time they check their points summary or perhaps a google alert will notify the original writer?

I'm interested in seeing what everyone's thoughts are on reblogging etiquette.

Interesting posts on reblogging:

Do You Pay it Forward in your Re-blog? (Jeff Belonger)

What is a Re-blog? (Bob Stewart)

Gina Chirico, Sales Associate

973-715-1158 (cell)

973-992-6363 ext 116 (office)

Gina.Chirico@PrudentialNewJersey.com

http://GinaChiricoRealEstate.com

When Opportunity Knocks...Make Sure Gina Chirico is There to Answer Your Door!

It's All in the Family ~ West Essex Multigenerational Homes (a/k/a West Essex "Mother/Daughter homes" or West Essex "homes with In-Law Suite")

Sun, 29 Nov 2009 14:28:22 -0600

In 2008, there were 3.8 million multigenerational households in the United States. According to the United States Department of Commerce's Census Bureau, multigenerational households are defined as households that consist of "three or more generations of parents and their families" living in the same house.

Multigenerational homes are often referred to as a"mother/daughter home" and/or an "in-law suite", basically both have the same meaning...keeping the house "All in the Family".

There's no doubt that many varieties of multigenerational homes exist but the most common are families which consist of grown children, grandparents and grandchildren all living under the same roof:

the homeowner, his/her children and grandchildren; or
the homeowner, his/her children and his/her own parents.

There are many reasons as to why a single family home houses more people.

Baby boomers are now caring for elderly parents;
Another group consists of younger families who live with their parents in order to pool finances in expensive housing markets or so they both can afford to live in a nicer home. Having live-in grandparents available for babysitting is an extra bonus;
The empty nest sometimes becomes the crowded nest when parents welcome their grown children back for a period of time to help them get on their feet financially after graduating from college, losing a job or going through a divorce; and
Home foreclosures have also caused many families to pool their resources with relatives and live together.

There are also several variations of what a multigenerational home consists of. Some will have its own entrance, include a full second kitchen, bathroom and living area where others may just have an extra room or two with a private bath, without its own kitchen, with or without a separate entrance.

Typically families under the same roof still desire own privacy and independence however zoning rules can forbid a property owner to create a multigenerational (a/k/a mother/daughter or in-law suite) type home with separate entrances and kitchens in a single-family zone.

There are a handful of multigenerational (a/k/a mother/daughter or in-law suite)homes for sale within The Communities of West Essex (Caldwell, Cedar Grove, Essex Fells, Fairfield, North Caldwell, Roseland, Verona and West Caldwell) located within Essex County, New Jersey. Some of these homes offer the convenience of two kitchens (i.e., second kitchen) which may attract multigenerational families or perhaps just a single family who desires two kitchens. When a second kitchen is not present in a multigenerational home, the families share the kitchen in the main living area of the house.

For more information on multigenerational homes also known as mother/daughter or in-law suite homes for sale in Caldwell, Cedar Grove, Essex Fells, Fairfield, North Caldwell,Roseland, Verona and West Caldwell (i.e.,"WEST ESSEX"), please contact Your Resource for West Essex Real Estate, Gina Chirico.

COMMITTED TO OUR SCHOOLS!

COMMITTED TO OUR COMMUNITIES!!

Gina Chirico, Sales Associate

973-715-1158 (cell)

973-992-6363 ext 116 (office)

Gina.Chirico@PrudentialNewJersey.com

http://GinaChiricoRealEstate.com

When Opportunity Knocks...Make Sure Gina Chirico is There to Answer Your Door!

Fairfield New Jersey Holiday Kick Off Starts Sunday December 6th at 4:30 p.m. ~ Will I See You There?

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 23:33:45 -0600

It's that time of year again!

Come share the joy of the season with my family and neighborhood friendsas The Mayor of Fairfield, New Jersey, James Gasparini, kicks off the holiday season for the residents Fairfield, New Jersey with the 48th Annual Lighting of the Fairfield Town Tree on Sunday, December 6th at the Fairfield Recreation Complex on Hollywood Avenue.

As always, the four year old Fairfield Busy Hands classes will be singing the holiday songs (including my youngest..IF he actually gets on the stage). TK and 'No Cover' bands will also be performing some holiday tunes.

Starting at 4:30 p.m., families can enjoy some hot cocoa, coffee, cookies, kettle corn, pretzels, chestnuts and photos with Santa (don't forget your cameras)!

Thanks again to the Township of Fairfield, New Jersey and The Fairfield Department of Recreation for providing yet another fun and free event for friends and families of Fairfield, New Jersey. I look forward to seeing you there!!

This is a rain or shine event so please dress accordingly!

The Fairfield Department of Recreation can be reached at 973-227-2745.

~~HAPPY HOLIDAYS~~

Thinking of moving to Fairfield? Fairfield, New Jersey is 1 of the 8 towns within the West Essex Communities. Fairfield, New Jersey is part of the West Essex Regional School District. The West Essex Regional School District is located in North Caldwell and serves the four area sending districts of Essex Fells, Fairfield, North Caldwell, and Roseland.

Your search for your Fairfield, NJ home begins here.

COMMITTED TO OUR SCHOOLS!

COMMITTED TO OUR COMMUNITY!!

Your Resource for West Essex Real Estate AND a Resident too,

Gina Chirico, Sales Associate

973-715-1158 (cell)

973-992-6363 ext 116 (office)

Gina.Chirico@PrudentialNewJersey.com

http://GinaChiricoRealEstate.com

When Opportunity Knocks...Make Sure Gina Chirico is There to Answer Your Door!

Tips for First-Time Homebuyers, Repeat Buyers and Sellers to Close Escrow by July 1, 2010 (The Extension and Expansion of the Homebuyer Tax Credit)

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 21:47:25 -0600

Originally posted in my How Many Buyers and Sellers have Benefited from the $8000 Tax Credit post, which was written in line with the 2009 First-time Homebuyer $8000 tax credit deadline of November 30, the following tips may help first-time homebuyers, repeat buyers (i.e., move up buyers or empty nesters) and sellers close escrow before July 1, 2010 and reap the benefits of the Extension and Expansion of the Homebuyer Tax Credit.

FOR BUYERS who want to benefit from the $8,000 federal tax credit, taking advantage of low prices and attractive interest rates, the following tips may help you close escrow before July 1, 2010:

You need to contact a REALTOR® today;
You need to have a solid pre-approval from a reputable bank;
You need proof of funds for cash deals;
Don't waste time with low ball offers, have your REALTOR® run the sold comparable properties, make an educated offer and definitely in a multiple offer situation...put your best offer on the table because you may not get a second chance;
Don't waste your time looking for houses out of your price range - you can only buy and a bank will only lend you money what you can afford to buy;
Get in and out of attorney review (not sure about other states but here in NJ, listings in attorney review are still active listings and offers can still be submitted thus bumping your offer right off the table) and/or request the seller agree to back-up offers only;
Even with the extension, most short sales, if not all short sales, will never close in time (by July 1, 2010);
You lose control on purchases where the sellers need to find suitable housing before they can sell (your purchase would then be contingent upon the seller first finding another house); and
You need to be under contract by the end of April 2010 and close no later than June 30, 2009.

FOR SELLERS who really want to sell their home, take advantage of today's affordability, and the expansion of the $6,500 tax credit, the following tips may help you close escrow before July 1, 2010:

Price your home at market value from the start (Do NOT overprice);
Work with a REALTOR® in your area who has an aggressive marketing plan;
Make your home irresistible (do everything you can to make the home so attractive, charming, cozy, inviting, comfortable and exciting so that a buyer would want that lifestyle too);
Be flexible with showings, lockbox and for sale sign (a home cannot sell if a buyer cannot get in to see it and even more importantly, it cannot be sold if nobody knows its for sale);
If you don't want to sell your house, don't put it on the market not only does it waste the time of buyers and their agents but it brings the property stats down as well);
If selling and buying, do not make an offer on the house you want to buy until your house is under contract, and if at all possible, after the home inspection and mortgage contingencies are satisfied on your sale (most sellers will not sign a contract with a home sale contigency...would you?); and
If selling and buying and if you qualify for the $6,500 tax credit, you need to be under contract no later than the end of April 2010 and close no later than June 30, 2009.

For more information on the First-Time Homebuyer $8000 Tax Credit Extension and the Expansion Credit of $6,500 to move-up buyers, please read my post First-Time Homebuyer Extended through April 30, 2010 and Expanded to Include Qualified Homeowners.

Even with the extension there is no reason for New Jersey buyers and sellers to still be waiting on the fence. It takes time to buy and sell your New Jersey home. Don't wait until the last minute...wouldn't you like to be in your new house before we spring forward?

Gina Chirico, Sales Associate

973-715-1158 (cell)

973-992-6363 ext 116 (office)

Gina.Chirico@PrudentialNewJersey.com

http://GinaChiricoRealEstate.com

When Opportunity Knocks...Make Sure Gina Chirico is There to Answer Your Door!

First-Time Homebuyer Extended through April 30, 2010 and Expanded to Include Qualified Homeowners

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 21:29:06 -0600

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With the Extension and the Expansion of the First-Time Homebuyer Credit...there's never been a better time to make your move in New Jersey.

If you are like many other people -- you may be thinking...What's the Big Deal or the tax credit only benefits First-Time Homebuyers, yada yada yada....

Let me tell you what the big deal is!!

Let's back up a minute....for starters, the original tax credit of up to $8,000 for first-time homebuyersdid not only benefit first-time homebuyers -- think about all the sellers who sold their house to first-time homebuyers. Those sellers benefited too from the sale of their house to first-time homebuyers.

Moving forward....not only has the tax credit of up to $8,000 for first-time homebuyers been extended from November 30, 2009 through April, 2010, the income limits have been raised thus allowing more first-time homebuyers to take advantage of the tax credit being offered. Some key points to the $8,000 first-time homebuyer credit include:

To qualify as a "first-time homebuyer" the purchaser or his/her spouse may not have owned a residence during the three years prior to the purchase and must purchase a home between November 7, 2009 and April 30, 2010. As long as a written binding contract to purchase is in effect on April 30, 2010, the purchaser will have until June 30, 2010 to close.
The income limits to qualify for the full credit are $125,000 for a single person and $225,000 for a married couple. Individuals earning up to $145,000 and married couples earning up to $245,000 are eligible for partial credit. (The credit decreases for buyers who earn between $125,000 and $145,000 for single buyers and between $225,000 and $245,000 for home buyers filing jointly. The amount of the tax credit decreases as his/her income approaches the maximum limit. Home buyers earning more than the maximum qualifying income-over $145,000 for singles and over $245,000 for couples are not eligible for the credit.)
The buyer does not need to repay the tax credit, if he/she occupies the home for three years or more. However, if the property is sold during this three-year period, the full amount credit will be recouped on the sale.

Not only will Move-Up Buyers and Empty Nesters (i.e., REPEAT BUYERS) reap the benefits from selling their house ONLY to First-Time homebuyers (i.e., the old tax credit), but current homeowners purchasing a home between November 7, 2009 and April 30, 2010, who have used the home being sold or vacated as a principal residence for five consecutive years within the last eight may be eligible for the new tax credit of up to $6,500 ($3,200 for those filing separately). Some key points to the tax credit expansion include:

To qualify, you must have owned your home and used it as a principal residence for at least five consecutive years of the previous eight years. (E.g. If you sold a home you owned and lived in for five years two years ago, and have been renting since, you'd still be eligible for the credit.) As long as a written binding contract to purchase is in effect on April 30, 2010, the purchaser will have until June 30, 2010 to close.
The income limits to qualify for the full credit are $125,000 for a single person and $225,000 for a married couple. Individuals earning up to $145,000 and married couples earning up to $245,000 are eligible for partial credit. (The credit decreases for buyers who earn between $125,000 and $145,000 for single buyers and between $225,000 and $245,000 for home buyers filing jointly. The amount of the tax credit decreases as his/her income approaches the maximum limit. Home buyers earning more than the maximum qualifying income-over $145,000 for singles and over $245,000 for couples are not eligible for the credit.)
The buyer does not need to repay the tax credit, if he/she occupies the home for three years or more. However, if the property is sold during this three-year period, the full amount credit will be recouped on the sale.
Your new house does not need to cost more than your old house for you to be approved for the credit.
The credit cannot be used on homes costing more than $800,000.

For more special tips on how buyers and sellers can take advantage of the First-time Homebuyer Extended Tax Credit of up to $8,000 and the New Tax Credit of up to $6,500 for qualified move-up/empty nester/repeat home buyers (i.e., existing homeowners) and close escrow before July 1, 2010, please read my post Tips for First-Time Homebuyers, Repeat Buyers and Sellers to Close Escrow by July 1, 2010 (The Extension and Expansion of the Homebuyer Tax Credit) .

In addition to the tips I posted in my blog, you basically need to:

Find a Realtor;
Get a pre-approval;
Look at homes;
Choose a home and make an offer;
Negotiate terms;
Complete attorney review, conduct inspection, property appraisal, homeowners insurance BEFORE April 30, 2010;
Get financing and close the deal BEFORE July 1, 2010.

(Keep in mind that steps 3-6 may have to be repeated...several times).

Gina Chirico, Sales Associate

973-715-1158 (cell)

973-992-6363 ext 116 (office)

Gina.Chirico@PrudentialNewJersey.com

http://GinaChiricoRealEstate.com

When Opportunity Knocks...Make Sure Gina Chirico is There to Answer Your Door!

West Essex at a Glance ~ Real Estate Market Report and Stat for North Caldwell NJ for October 2009

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 15:39:12 -0600

West Essex at a Glance

Market Reports and Stats for North Caldwell, New Jersey for October 2009

North Caldwell, New Jersey Market Report for October 2009:

Active Listings: 41
Under Contracts in October: 2
Solds in October: 4
Months Supply on the Market: 20.5
Absorption ratio: 5% (only 5% of the total inventory went U/C in October, leaving 95% of the inventory unsold)

The market stats in the chart above above also reflect:

New Listings for the month of October: 67
Total properties Under Contract (including those u/c through the end of October): 10

There are currently no multi-family homes on the market in North Caldwell, New Jersey.

Roseland , New Jersey 07068 and Essex Fells, New Jersey 07021 are part of the West Essex Regional School District. The West Essex Regional School District (grades 7-12) is located in North Caldwell and serves the four area sending districts of Essex Fells, Fairfield, North Caldwell, and Roseland. Each town maintains their own grammar schools for grades K-6.

These four suburban residential West Essex communities located only 25 miles from New York City have a combined population of approximately 23,000 people and cover an area of 18 square miles.

MARKET SNAPSHOT FOR THE FOUR SENDING DISTRICTS OF THE WEST ESSEX REGIONAL SCHOOLS

Snapshot of The Four Sending Districts of the West Essex Regional School District for October 2009:

Active Listings: 156
Under Contracts in October: 18
Solds in October: 11
Months Supply on the Market: 8.7
Absorption ratio: 12% (only 12% of the total inventory went U/C in October, leaving 88% of the inventory unsold)

Search for homes currently on the market in North Caldwell, New Jersey. For more information on homes for sale within the West Essex Regional School District, please contact Gina Chirico.

Your Resource for West Essex Real Estate,

Gina Chirico, Sales Associate

973-715-1158 (cell)

973-992-6363 ext 116 (office)

Gina.Chirico@PrudentialNewJersey.com

http://GinaChiricoRealEstate.com

When Opportunity Knocks...Make Sure Gina Chirico is There to Answer Your Door!

West Essex at a Glance ~ Real Estate Market Reports and Stats for Roseland NJ and Essex Fells NJ for October 2009

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 15:24:59 -0600

West Essex at a Glance

Market Reports and Stats for Roseland, New Jersey and Essex Fells, New Jersey for October 2009

Roseland, New Jersey Market Report for October 2009:

Active Listings: 41
Under Contracts in October: 7
Solds in October: 2
Months Supply on the Market: 5.9
Absorption ratio: 10% (only 10% of the total inventory went U/C in October, leaving 90% of the inventory unsold)

The market stats in the chart above above also reflect:

New Listings for the month of October: 7
Total properties Under Contract (including those u/c through the end of October): 10

There are currently no multi-family homes on the market in Roseland, New Jersey.

Essex Fells, New Jersey Market Report for October 2009:

Active Listings: 18
Under Contracts in October: 3
Solds in October: 6
Months Supply on the Market: 5.9
Absorption ratio: 17% (only 17% of the total inventory went U/C in October, leaving 83% of the inventory unsold)

The market stats in the chart above above also reflect:

New Listings for the month of October: 6
Total properties Under Contract (including those u/c through the end of October): 3

There are currently no multi-family homes on the market in Essex Fells, New Jersey.

MARKET SNAPSHOT FOR THE FOUR SENDING DISTRICTS OF THE WEST ESSEX REGIONAL SCHOOLS

Snapshot of The Four Sending Districts of the West Essex Regional School District for October 2009:

Active Listings: 156
Under Contracts in October: 18
Solds in October: 11
Months Supply on the Market: 8.7
Absorption ratio: 12% (only 12% of the total inventory went U/C in October, leaving 88% of the inventory unsold)

Search for homes currently on the market in Roseland, New Jersey. Search for homes currently on the market in Essex Fells, New Jersey. For more information on homes for sale within the West Essex Regional School District, please contact Gina Chirico.

Your Resource for West Essex Real Estate,

Gina Chirico, Sales Associate

973-715-1158 (cell)

973-992-6363 ext 116 (office)

Gina.Chirico@PrudentialNewJersey.com

http://GinaChiricoRealEstate.com

When Opportunity Knocks...Make Sure Gina Chirico is There to Answer Your Door!

West Essex at a Glance ~ Fairfield NJ Real Estate Market Reports and Stats for October 2009

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 14:15:27 -0600

West Essex at a Glance

Market Report and Stats for Fairfield, New Jersey for October 2009

Fairfield, New Jersey Market Report for October 2009:

Active Listings: 59
Under Contracts in October: 7
Solds in October: 3
Months Supply on the Market: 8.4
Absorption ratio: 11% (only 11% of the total inventory went U/C in October, leaving 89% of the inventory unsold)

The market stats in the chart above above also reflect:

New Listings for the month of October: 10
Total properties Under Contract (including those u/c through the end of October): 16

There are currently no multi-family homes on the market in Fairfield, New Jersey.

Read about the Communities within West Essex

Fairfield, New Jersey 07004 is part of the West Essex Regional School District.

The West Essex Regional School District (grades 7-12) is located in North Caldwell and serves the four area sending districts of Essex Fells, Fairfield, North Caldwell, and Roseland. Each town maintains their own grammar schools for grades K-6.

MARKET SNAPSHOT FOR THE FOUR SENDING DISTRICTS OF THE WEST ESSEX REGIONAL SCHOOLS

Snapshot of The Four Sending Districts of the West Essex Regional School District for October 2009:

Active Listings: 156
Under Contracts in October: 18
Solds in October: 11
Months Supply on the Market: 8.7
Absorption ratio: 12% (only 12% of the total inventory went U/C in October, leaving 88% of the inventory unsold)

Search for homes currently on the market in Fairfield, New Jersey. For more information on homes for sale within the West Essex Regional School District, please contact Gina Chirico.

Your Resource for West Essex Real Estate,

Gina Chirico, Sales Associate

973-715-1158 (cell)

973-992-6363 ext 116 (office)

Gina.Chirico@PrudentialNewJersey.com

http://GinaChiricoRealEstate.com

When Opportunity Knocks...Make Sure Gina Chirico is There to Answer Your Door!

West Essex at a Glance ~ Cedar Grove and Verona NJ Real Estate Market Reports for October 2009

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 13:14:01 -0600

West Essex at a Glance

Market Reports for Cedar Grove, New Jersey and Verona, New Jersey

October 2009

Cedar Grove, New Jersey Market Report for October 2009:

Active Listings: 60
Under Contracts in October: 12
Solds in October: 9
Months Supply on the Market: 5
Absorption ratio: 20% (only 20% of the total inventory went U/C in October, leaving 80% of the inventory unsold)

The market stats in the chart above above also reflect:

New Listings for the month of October: 15
Total properties Under Contract (including those u/c through the end of October): 18

There is currently one multi-family under contract and no active multi-family homes on the market in Cedar Grove.

Verona, New Jersey Market Report for October 2009:

Active Listings: 82
Under Contracts in October: 8
Solds in October: 23
Months Supply on the Market: 10.25
Absorption ratio: 10% (only 10% of the total inventory went U/C in October, leaving 90% of the inventory unsold)

The market stats in the chart above above also reflect:

New Listings for the month of October: 15
Total properties Under Contract (including those u/c through the end of October): 22

There are currently two multi-family homes on the market in Verona.

Read about the Communities within West Essex

Unlike the other six West Essex Communities, Verona and Cedar Grove are much more independent to themselves. Both towns each have their own school system for both grammar and high school levels. Their combined population is approximately 26,000 and cover a combined area of roughly 7 miles.

Search for homes for sale in Cedar Grove, New Jersey. Search for homes for sale in Verona, New Jersey.

View Market Stats for West Essex Community for October 2009 , as a whole.

Your Resource for West Essex Real Estate,

Gina Chirico, Sales Associate

973-715-1158 (cell)

973-992-6363 ext 116 (office)

Gina.Chirico@PrudentialNewJersey.com

http://GinaChiricoRealEstate.com

When Opportunity Knocks...Make Sure Gina Chirico is There to Answer Your Door!

West Essex at a Glance ~ Caldwell and West Caldwell NJ Real Estate Market Reports for October 2009

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 12:14:38 -0600

West Essex at a Glance

Market Reports for Caldwell, NJ and West Caldwell, NJ

October 2009

Caldwell, New Jersey Market Report for October 2009:

Active Listings: 31
Under Contracts in October: 5
Solds in October: 5
Months Supply on the Market: 6.2
Absorption ratio: 16% (only 16% of the total inventory went U/C in October, leaving 84% of the inventory unsold)

The market stats in the chart above also reflect:

New Listings for the month of October: 9
Total properties Under Contract (including those u/c through the end of October): 15

There are currently two multi-family homes on the market in Caldwell, New Jersey.

West Caldwell, New Jersey Market Report for October 2009:

Active Listings: 40
Under Contracts in October: 7
Solds in October: 5
Months Supply on the Market: 5.7
Absorption ratio: 18% (only 18% of the total inventory went U/C in October, leaving 82% of the inventory unsold)

The market stats in the chart above also reflect:

New Listings for the month of October: 8
Total properties Under Contract (including those u/c through the end of October): 15

Read about the Communities within West Essex

These two suburban residential West Essex communities located only 25 miles from New York City have a combined population of approximately 18,000 people. Caldwell and West Caldwell share a public school system with students in both towns attending James Caldwell High School in West Caldwell.

Search for homes for sale in Caldwell, New Jersey. Search for homes for sale in West Caldwell, New Jersey. For more information on homes for sale within the James Caldwell School District, please contact Gina Chirico.

View Market Stats for West Essex Community for October 2009 , as a whole.

Your Resource for West Essex Real Estate,

Gina Chirico, Sales Associate

973-715-1158 (cell)

973-992-6363 ext 116 (office)

Gina.Chirico@PrudentialNewJersey.com

http://GinaChiricoRealEstate.com

When Opportunity Knocks...Make Sure Gina Chirico is There to Answer Your Door!

West Essex At a Glance ~ Communities of West Essex, New Jersey Real Estate Market Stats, October 2009

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 22:34:11 -0600

The West Essex Communities, located in Essex County, New Jersey include Caldwell, West Caldwell, Roseland, Essex Fells, North Caldwell Fairfield, Verona and Cedar Grove.

*********************

West Essex Real Estate at a Glance

Market Stats for October 2009

The West Essex Communities Combined Market Report for October 2009:

Active Listings: 372
Under Contract in October: 51
Solds in October: 52
Months Supply on the Market: 7.3

Absorption ratio: 14% (only 14% of the total inventory went U/C in October, leaving 86% of the inventory unsold)

The market stats in the chart above also reflect:

New Listings for the month of October: 76
Total properties Under Contract (including those u/c through the end of October): 108

For more information on homes for sale within the West Essex Communities, please contact Gina Chirico.

*************

Click here for Caldwell, NJ and West Caldwell, NJ Real Estate Market Report for October 2009.
Click here for Cedar Grove, NJ and Verona, NJ Real Estate Market Reports and Stats for October 2009.
Click here for Fairfield, NJ Real Estate Report and Stats for October 2009.
Click here for North Caldwell, NJ Real Estate Report and Stats for October 2009.
Click here for Roseland, NJ and Essex Fells, NJ Real Estate Market Report for October 2009.

I Don't Just Sell This Community

I Live Here Too!

Your Resource for West Essex Real Estate,

Gina Chirico, Sales Associate

973-715-1158 (cell)

973-992-6363 ext 116 (office)

Gina.Chirico@PrudentialNewJersey.com

http://GinaChiricoRealEstate.com

When Opportunity Knocks...Make Sure Gina Chirico is There to Answer Your Door!

Real Estate Career Seminar: Virtual Communication & Tech Skills #1 in New Career Success, Livingston NJ

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 22:30:17 -0500

Did you know that virtual communication together with techonology skills are #1 essentials in your real estate career success?

The average real estate agent, age 54 and "technology-challenged", grapples with the consumer's demand for immediate information and communication, thus paving the way for a new breed of real estate agents, already tech-savvy or willing to learn and adapt. The key to their future success is their facility to be in touch with their sphere of influence 24/7.

. . . . . Are you able to keep up with what comes so natural to the new adapters that will, if they haven't already taken over the real estate world?

. . . . . Are you a tech savvy social networker tired of the 9-5 cubicle world and ready to explore new beginnings?

Whether you are a seasoned agent, brand new to the business or considering a change of career, you are ALL invited to attend Prudential New Jersey Properties, Livingston Office's Sales Manager, Broker-Sale Representative Annette DeCicco's, free real estate seminarwhich focuses on Why Real Estate is The Career for Tech-Savvy Social Networkers. The seminar will be held on October 28th, 2009 from 7:00-8:30 p.m. at Livingston's Prudential New Jersey Properties office which is located at 50 E. Mt. Pleasant Avenue, Livingston, New Jersey 07039. Please reply directly to Annette.DeCicco@PrudentialNewJersey.com or 973-992-6363 or please feel free to contact Gina.Chirico@PrudentialNewJersey.com.

For more information about the real estate career seminar and topics to be discussed, please visit: Virtual Communication & Tech Skills #1 in New Career Success.

Gina Chirico, Sales Associate

973-715-1158 (cell)

973-992-6363 ext 116 (office)

Gina.Chirico@PrudentialNewJersey.com

http://GinaChiricoRealEstate.com

When Opportunity Knocks...Make Sure Gina Chirico is There to Answer Your Door!

New to North Caldwell, New Jersey? You are Invited to Attend Newcomer's Night!

Wed, 14 Oct 2009 09:51:06 -0500

Just moved to North Caldwell, New Jersey?

The Borough of North Caldwell, together with its Recreation Department, Historical Society, members of the Borough Council and Mayor Mel Levine is inviting residents new to North Caldwell to attend its annual Newcomer's Night on Monday, October 26, 2009 at 7:00 p.m. at Borough Hall, 141 Gould Avenue.

I think this is a fantastic opportunity for all residents new to North Caldwell to learn about their community and municipal government. Newcomer's Night is meant to be an informal but informative event and will include a question/answer type forum. Information to be discussed will include:

Recreation programs;
Scouting programs;
Senior Citizen activities;
Department of Public Works;
Police and Fire Departments; ;
Community service organizations; and
North Caldwell Public Schools which consists of Grandview School (grades preschool-third), Gould School (grades 4-6) and West Essex Regional Schools.

For more information contact the North Caldwell Recreation Office: (973) 228-6410 x113.

Don't miss out on the homemade baked goods provided by the Historical Society and Senior Citizens' Group after the meeting. What a great way to end the night! YUMMY!

**************************************************************************************

The Borough of North Caldwell, New Jersey is part of the West Essex Regional School District.

The West Essex Regional School District is located in North Caldwell and serves the four area sending districts of Essex Fells, Fairfield, North Caldwell, and Roseland.

Begin your search for homes for sale in North Caldwell. For more information on homes for sale within the West Essex Regional School District, please contact Gina Chirico.

Gina Chirico, Sales Associate

973-715-1158 (cell)

973-992-6363 ext 116 (office)

Gina.Chirico@PrudentialNewJersey.com

http://GinaChiricoRealEstate.com

When Opportunity Knocks...Make Sure Gina Chirico is There to Answer Your Door!

"Whoopi" in West Orange, NJ ~ Beyond the Gates of Llewellyn Park

Sun, 11 Oct 2009 10:37:45 -0500

The private gated community of Llewellyn Park located in West Orange, New Jersey welcomes celebrity Whoopi Goldberg as one of its newest homeowners. Whoopi Goldberg closed on her $2.8 million colonial style mansion sitting on 2.34 acres featuring 23 rooms during late summer of 2009. Interior amenities include 8 bedrooms, 6.2 baths, a billiard room, fitness room, media room and wine cellar.

The exterior grounds boast lush gardens, a rambling lawn, an inground swimming pool and would not be complete without its carriage house.

Let's take a tour of Whoopi's new Llewellyn Park home.

Enter the gated community of West Orange's Llewellyn Park.....

Llewellyn Park, composed of 173 homes and estates sits on approximately 425 acres. In addition to Whoopi moving into West Orange's suburban charm of Llewellyn Park, this special community has a history of prestigious residents including Thomas Edison and the Colgate family.

As of the day I wrote this blog post, there are 15 properties available within the gated community of Llewellyn Park ranging in price from $399,900 to $2.65 million. If interested in living in this special community of Llewellyn Park which prides itself on privacy, peace and quiet, please contact Gina Chirico.

Search all homes for sale in West Orange, New Jersey (non-exclusive to Llewellyn Park).

Gina Chirico, Sales Associate

973-715-1158 (cell)

973-992-6363 ext 116 (office)

Gina.Chirico@PrudentialNewJersey.com

http://GinaChiricoRealEstate.com

When Opportunity Knocks...Make Sure Gina Chirico is There to Answer Your Door!

Halloween Haunt Dance for Fifth Graders in Roseland, NJ ~ A West Essex Community

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 23:42:49 -0500

DJ ~ Costume Awards ~ Refreshments

All Roseland, New Jersey fifth graders attending public and private schools are invited to the Halloween Haunt Dance sponsored by the Roseland New Jersey Junior's Woman Club.

Date: October 30, 2009
Time: 8:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Location: All-Purpose Room at Roseland Borough Hall, located at 19 Harrison Avenue in Roseland, NJ
Admission Fee: $10

All students MUST come in costume. Please make checks payable to RJWC, include the student's name and mail to P.O. Box 24, Roseland, NJ 07068. For more information please call (973) 226-5248 during evening hours.

HAVE A HAPPY AND SAFE HALLOWEEN!!

Roseland, New Jersey is part of the West Essex Regional School District. The West Essex Regional School District is located in North Caldwell and serves the four area sending districts of Essex Fells, Fairfield, North Caldwell, and Roseland.

For more information on homes for sale in the West Essex Regional School District, please contact me.

Gina Chirico, Sales Associate

973-715-1158 (cell)

973-992-6363 ext 116 (office)

Gina.Chirico@PrudentialNewJersey.com

http://GinaChiricoRealEstate.com

When Opportunity Knocks...Make Sure Gina Chirico is There to Answer Your Door!

Singing in the rain - I've earned AR's #1 Rank for Fairfield New Jersey

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 21:03:08 -0500

I am singing in the rain today!!

Today I have earned Active Rain's #1 Ranking in Fairfield, New Jersey! I set a goal for myself here on AR albeit a small goal but one that I set and I accomplished.

Everyday I log on to Active Rain and my Rank in Fairfield New Jersey has always been #2 and today after posting my last comment I clicked on my home page and there it was RANK IN FAIRFIELD: 1 (Featured!). It's nothing compared to the top AR bloggers and I know I still have a lot to learn. As you can see my points are only 22,012, have only written 44 blog posts with two subscribers and my posts have never been featured but I did set my goal to become #1 in Fairfield, New Jersey Active Rain's ranking and that goal I can happily say that I've accomplished today. Staying #1 will be the ultimate accomplishment!

Now onto my second second goal: moving from the #8 spot in Essex County, New Jersey to the #1 ranking.

I'm singing in the rain today instead of just getting my feet wet!

Search homes for sale in Fairfield, New Jersey.

Gina Chirico, Sales Associate

973-715-1158 (cell)

973-992-6363 ext 116 (office)

Gina.Chirico@PrudentialNewJersey.com

http://GinaChiricoRealEstate.com

When Opportunity Knocks...Make Sure Gina Chirico is There to Answer Your Door!

Things that make you go hmmmmm....the case of the missing property domain rider

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 22:04:04 -0500

Last night as I pulled up to show my two-family listing in Bloomfield I thought to myself - "Hmmmm.... my sign looks a little different, there's that big empty rectangle in the middle" and then I realized that someone had removed the property website rider from my sign.

My first thought was DID SOMEONE REALLY STEAL MY SIGN RIDER????

As I sat in my car after the showing, still puzzled about why someone would want a sign rider that said www.48nspringst.com I glanced over at the house across the street which, by the way, is also for sale with a different broker and I recalled the other 7 homes also listed by different brokers on the same street and thought my listing is the only one with its very OWN advertised property website rider...making it extremely easy for prospective buyers to be able to access the property information right then and there from the comfort of their car should they have web based plan. When I came home I googled the other property addresses and did not find any of those properties with their own property domain.

I would like to go to bed thinking that it was just kids who got a chuckle out of stealing a rider from the sign or that a drive-by buyer would rather take the rider then to find a pen and paper to jot down the website address. I'm hoping that it wasn't my colleagues/competitors who probably got tired of giving excuses to their sellers about why their homes don't have their own personal property website. ALL my listings have their own single property domain. Shouldn't every seller's property?

Things That Make You Go Hmmmm....

48 N. Spring Street, Bloomfield, New Jersey

This recently updated two family home located in the St. Valentine's Section of Bloomfield, New Jersey is offered at $409,000

Virtual Tour of 48 N. Spring Street, Bloomfield, New Jersey

**First Floor Unit Also Available For Rent**

www.bloomfieldrental.com

Bloomfield New Jersey Real Estate Search

Gina Chirico, Sales Associate

973-715-1158 (cell)

973-992-6363 ext 116 (office)

Gina.Chirico@PrudentialNewJersey.com

http://GinaChiricoRealEstate.com

When Opportunity Knocks...Make Sure Gina Chirico is There to Answer Your Door!

How many buyers and sellers have benefited from the $8000 Tax Credit?

Sat, 03 Oct 2009 21:43:09 -0500

So how many buyers AND sellers have really benefited from the $8000 tax credit?

According to the IRS, more than 1.4 million taxpayers(assuming first-time homebuyers) have benefited from the First-Time Homebuyers Tax Credit of up to $8,000!

If you think only the first-time homebuyers are benefiting-- think of how many sellers have benefited from the sale of THEIR house to first-time homebuyers!

I just wanted to take a minute to congratulate all the first-time homebuyers who took advantage of the tax credit and welcome them into the world of HOME OWNERSHIP!

With that being said, I would like to also congratulate all the agents, mortgage lenders, inspectors, title companies, appraisers, attorneys and sellers (and anyone else I erroneously left out) who have helped these first-time homebuyers achieve the American Dream- HOME OWNERSHIP!

FOR BUYERS who still want to cash-in on the tax credit of up to $8,000, time is running out (less than 60 days left).

Can it still be done? Possibly and the following tips may help you close escrow before December 1, 2009:

You need to contact a REALTOR® today;
You need to have a solid pre-approval from a reputable bank;
You need proof of funds for cash deals;
Don't waste time with low ball offers, have your REALTOR® run the sold comparable properties, make an educated offer and definitely in a multiple offer situation...put your best offer on the table because you may not get a second chance;
Don't waste your time looking for houses out of your price range - you can only buy and a bank will only lend you money what you can afford to buy;
Get in and out of attorney review (not sure about other states but here in NJ, listings in attorney review are still active listings and offers can still be submitted thus bumping your offer right off the table) and/or request the seller agree to back-up offers only;
Most short sales, if not all short sales, will never close in time (by November 30, 2009);
You lose control on purchases where the sellers need to find suitable housing before they can sell (your purchase would then be contingent upon the seller first finding another house); and
You need to close no later than November 30, 2009.

FOR SELLERS who really want to sell their home and take advantage of today's affordability in a trading up and/or trading down market, the following tips may help you close escrow before December 1, 2009:

Price your home at market value from the start (Do NOT overprice);
Work with a REALTOR® in your area who has an aggressive marketing plan;
Make your home irresistible (do everything you can to make the home so attractive, charming, cozy, inviting, comfortable and exciting so that a buyer would want that lifestyle too);
Be flexible with showings, lockbox and for sale sign (a home cannot sell if a buyer cannot get in to see it and even more importantly, it cannot be sold if nobody knows its for sale); and
If you don't want to sell your house, don't put it on the market not only does it waste the time of buyers and their agents but it brings the property stats down as well).

* I am sure there are many more buyer and seller tips that I have not included, please feel free to add them in your comments. *

Gina Chirico, Sales Associate

973-715-1158 (cell)

973-992-6363 ext 116 (office)

Gina.Chirico@PrudentialNewJersey.com

http://GinaChiricoRealEstate.com

When Opportunity Knocks...Make Sure Gina Chirico is There to Answer Your Door!

Drunk Driving Hits Home in Fairfield

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 08:18:16 -0500

Drunk driving hit home this weekend in Fairfield. Chills went up my spine Saturday morning when I learned a Fairfield home on Hollywood Avenue (the same Fairfield home my cousins were interested in back in March of 2008) was struck by a vehicle which hit the home's gas meter and ignited a fire that caused extensive damage to the home. FORTUNATELY, the three occupants of the home nor the driver of the vehicle were injured during this horrible accident.

It took approximately 1½ hours for The Fairfield Fire Department, along with firefighters from both West Caldwell and North Caldwell to extinguish the flames. From what I understand the driver of the vehicle was charged with DWI and arrested by the Fairfield Police Department.

This tragedy really hit home when I thought that it could very well have been my cousins being startled at 3:00 a.m. by a crash through their house and blazing flames. Luckily for them, they had chosen another Fairfield home but in reality, it could have happened and can happen not only to them but to any one of us - don't think for one second that it can't happen to you! Together, as communities (not just Fairfield but ALL communities) need to protect ourselves, our children, our residents, our family members and friends against drunk drivers.

PLEASE DO NOT DRINK AND DRIVE!

COMMITTED TO OUR SCHOOLS!!

COMMITTED TO OUR COMMUNITY!!

Be My Neighbor - MOVE TO FAIRFIELD!!!

Gina Chirico, Sales Associate

973-715-1158 (cell)

973-992-6363 ext 116 (office)

Gina.Chirico@PrudentialNewJersey.com

http://GinaChiricoRealEstate.com

When Opportunity Knocks...Make Sure Gina Chirico is There to Answer Your Door!