Kathy Kenney, Realtor Princeton & Central NJ Homes for Sale's Blog

US Airways Flight 1549 - Camera, don't fail me now!

Sun, 05 Jun 2011 11:07:31 -0700

WOW! That's the only way to describe it! I set out early this morning to put up open house signs, never knowing what I would witness on my drive back home! Heading north on Rt. 130 in Hamilton, NJ (Mercer County), I noticed a lot of emergency vehicle lights coming toward me, slowly, in the southbound lanes. I saw cars pulled over onto the shoulder of the road, but didn't think much about it, until I noticed, "It's a plane, it's a plane"! I couldn't get my camera out in time to capture it, so now I had to think about how I could turn around and get in front of it. The plane was accompanied by many State Police vehicles, road crew trucks, etc. Signs had to be moved so that this "oversized load" could weave through the side streets to get to Rt. 195, which ultimately will go to Rt. 95 and head south to Charlotte, it's final destination (and, in fact, the destination that it was headed for on that fateful day that it ended up in the Hudson River.

As curious onlookers lined the streets with cameras, I did my best to get directly behind the entourage and managed to get 20 photos! A few are posted here. If you would like to see the rest, contact me!

WOW! It's a day that you'll always remember where you were when you heard the news. I was at home, getting ready to go to a real estate closing, when it came across the TV screen. At that time the passengers had not been rescued, and I sat at the closing table wondering what was happening. It was truly a miracle!

250 Locust Ave. - Open House, Sunday, June 5th from 1:00 - 3:00

Sat, 04 Jun 2011 16:42:24 -0700

Stop by and see this totall refreshed home in the Steinert School District. Located on Locust Ave., in the Yardville section of Hamilton Township, this charming 3 bedroom, 1 bath home is awaiting it's new owners. You'll find plenty of space for everyone. Situated on .23 acres, with close proximity to all major highways, tons of shopping along Rt. 130, and the Acme Supermarket is just steps away. Great school district. You won't be disappointed. I'll be looking for you............!

First Time Home Buyers - Steinert School District under $200K

Sat, 04 Jun 2011 16:16:15 -0700

Better than a townhouse! If you're looking for space and privacy, this is it. Situated on almost a quarter acre, this single family home is perfect for a first time homebuyer, or perhaps someone that is downsizing. Consisting of 3 bedrooms, 1 bath, a living room, dining room, kitchen, sun room, attic and basement, there's plenty of room for everyone. Totally refreshed, this home is waiting for you! Call today to schedule an appointment, or for more information!

Investor Wanted! Positive Cash Flow on a Quadplex will be your Reward!

Sat, 04 Jun 2011 16:04:10 -0700

Attention all Investors! Are you looking for a building that will give you a positive return on your investment? Look no further! I have just listed a gorgeous quadplex, that has been owner occupied and lovingly maintained by the same owner for 35 years! Located in Hamilton, NJ (Mercer County), this building consists of two, 2 bedroom, 1 bath units and two 1 bedroom, 1 bath units. Exceptional rental history. Sellers are retiring and moving South. Reluctantly selling!

Contact me to schedule an appointment, or for additional information!

Mother's Day Gift Suggestion

Thu, 05 May 2011 13:06:56 -0700

For those that prefer to give a Mother's Day gift of flowers that will last for more than a few days, I suggest a visit to Gasko's Family Farm & Greenhouses in Monroe, NJ. I'm not sure how long this garden center has been around, but I can't believe that I never knew about it before now!

This place is huge! Several greenhouses that currently house "annuals", together with perennials and shrubery outside.

Prices are fantastic too! $10 for 8" hanging baskets, $8.99 for flats of 48 annuals, etc. So, put on your walking shoes, grab a large cart and shop for everyone on your Mother's Day list. I can guarantee you will make many trips to Gasko's Family Farm & Greenhouse.

Happy Mother's Day!

Start the New Year off right in this gorgeous condo!

Wed, 05 Jan 2011 09:27:02 -0800

Andover Place

ROBBINSVILLE, NJ

Best location and best priced Condo!

2BR/1BA Condo

$179,000

Year Built	1989
Sq Footage	Unspecified
Bedrooms	2
Bathrooms	1 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	Unspecified
Lot Size	Unspecified
HOA/Maint	$190 per month

Description

Start the new year off right in this fantastic condo! Best location and price for this updated first floor condo. Brand new stainless steel kitchen appliances and flooring. The bathroom has been freshly painted and updated. Spacious and sunny living room/dining room with wood-burning fireplace, and sliding doors to a private patio. Contact listing agent directly at 609-635-3667.

Property Features

Central A/C	Central heat	Fireplace
Walk-in closet	Tile floor	Living room
Dining room	Dishwasher	Refrigerator
Stove/Oven	Stainless steel appliances	Washer
Dryer	Laundry area - inside	Balcony, Deck, or Patio
Swimming pool

Community Features

Clubhouse	Storage space(s)	Swimming pool(s)
Tennis court(s)

Other Special Features

Brand new Stainless Steel Kitchen Appliances

Security System

Fireplace

Additional Photos

front exterior	dining room
bathroom	living room
kitchen	kitchen

Contact Info

Kathy Kenney

Keller Williams Realty

(609) 987-8889

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Who Likes Chocolate? Chocolate Walk TONIGHT - 12/10/10

Fri, 10 Dec 2010 16:23:43 -0800

Tonight (12/10/10) the Downtown Bordentown Association is sponsoring a "Chocolate Walk." 18 businesses along Farnsworth Ave. are participating where you can walk into the shops and eateries and have Chocolate tasting along the way!

Tomorrow, Saturday evening, 12/11 is the Holiday Historic Homes Tour sponsored by the Bordentown Historical Society. Call Tom @ 609 298 1424 for more information. Tickets are available!

Bundle up and come on out and enjoy the fun. I hear that Chocolate Martinis are on the menu!

It's not about the Sale!

Sun, 07 Nov 2010 06:51:41 -0800

I met a prospective buyer a few weeks ago at an open house and immediately put her in touch with a mortgage lender to get qualified. While she qualifies, with a co-signer, she doesn't have the cash available for downpayment/closing costs. She thought she could get 100% financing. No, that ship has sailed! I explained that she would need 3.5% of the sale price and could possibly get a seller's assist for the closing costs, but she definitely has to have some skin in the game. Her dad had offered to be a co-signer (he was the one out looking for a home for her, and called her from my open house), the cash is not currently available. Yesterday she emailed me to say that she has to put the purchase on hold until the Spring, when she will be in a better situation, financially. AND...... she will be contacting me at that time, because I didn't try to "sell" her, instead I educated her! We will be keeping in touch and hope to be out looking for the perfect home next Spring!

Credit Scoring Tips...Things I just Learned after years in the Business!

Thu, 04 Nov 2010 08:17:33 -0700

Here are some great tips on protecting your credit score. Many I was not aware of, how about you? What do you do to protect your credit?

Via Joan Cox, Denver Real Estate (Metro Brokers - House to Home, Inc. - Denver Real Estate):

Often times we have clients that would like to purchase a home, but have had some negative circumstances happen in their lives, and they ask us -- can be buy?

Disclosure --- I AM NOT A LENDER, CREDIT REPAIR COMPANY, ETC.      I am a Realtor, and learned a few things today that I didn't know, and thought I would share!   If you have more detailed questions, I have several great lenders to ask!

Foreign buyers usually do not have credit.   Have them open a couple credit cards before they come to purchase a home.

There are many scoring models - Personal (you pull your own credit), Mortgage, Credit Cards, and Insurance.   They all have different algorithms, and could be as much as 100 points different.    I always thought when you got your credit score, it was the same anywhere.

This is a big one --- if you lose your credit card, or report a fraudulent charge, and are issued a new card --- you need to request the history to be transferred, especially if it had long history.     They do not always do this.    Payment history amounts to 35% of your FICO score, so this one could make a big difference.

We have always been told to shred credit card applications, but now the thieves are getting smarter, and we now need a "cross-shredder" to be sure they cannot tape these applications together and submit them.

When electronically signing (at the department/grocery store), add a date to your signature.    The biggest problem with credit/debit card thefts is from the clerk on the other side of the counter.    When you add the date, they cannot reproduce your signature again.

If you want to "opt-out" of credit card offers - call 888-567-8688.    When you call, this will be good for 5 full years.   If you want a lifetime opt-out, this needs to be done my snail mail.

Security Freeze - blocks anyone from checking your credit, except those you currently are doing business with.    If a loved one died, unfortunately there are smart thieves out there watching the obituaries and collecting social security numbers.     Each reporting bureau has its own Security Freeze, and each should be contacted.

There was so much learned in just two hours today --- this is just a small portion, and will share more on another post!

Joan Cox, GRI,ABR,CRS,CNE,e-Pro      Denver Real Estate

A Denver Metropolitan Realtor

If you would like to get on my email newsletter list and keep up with the Denver metro real estate market - please email me, and I will add you to this list!    Also, if you are moving into Denver and request additional information, please email me or call!             720-231-6373

Relocating to Denver --- Information for YOU!

Search for Denver Lofts

Real Estate is just a Numbers Game!

Tue, 02 Nov 2010 08:43:21 -0700

Real estate is just a numbers game - Sellers want a high number - buyers want a low number - and I just want you to call my number if you are thinking about either - 609-635-3667.

If you're a buyer or seller in Central New Jersey, give me a call. I will assist you in reaching your real estate goals.

Dracula has found a home on Thompson St., Bordentown, NJ

Wed, 20 Oct 2010 22:28:14 -0700

Every Halloween the residents of Thompson Street. in Bordentown, NJ turn their little street into the most popular street in town! Lead by Thompson Street resident, artist and theatrical designer Frank Rios, the residents of Thompson Street traditionally go all out decorating for Halloween with a particular theme, this year it's dracula to bats. It's a sight to be seen, with the residents going all out on Halloween night, handing out candy to the visitors, and just having a good time. Stop by and join in the fun.

Commuter's Delight - Mercerville, NJ

Fri, 15 Oct 2010 10:31:57 -0700

New listing! First time ever on the market. Charming capecod, located in Mercerville, NJ on a park-like setting. Easy access to all major highways, Rts. 195, 295, 1, 130 and 33. Hamilton Train Station is 5-7 minutes away. 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, livingroom, kitchen, sunroom and full basement. Attic on second floor could be converted to 4th bedroom. Lots of possibilities here. Bring your vision and decorating ideas, and make this one yours. Quick closing possible.

Mums the word!

Sun, 03 Oct 2010 11:01:57 -0700

For anyone in the central NJ area, there is a great "mum" farm on Route 539 in Allentown, NJ. Kaczor's Mum Farm has a huge assortment of mums in every color and size, and very reasonable too! They also offer winter pansies, cabbage plants, and a variety of other plants. Enjoy this nice Fall day and visit the Mum Farm!

Chowderfest Weekend - LBI

Sat, 02 Oct 2010 07:55:23 -0700

Looking for something to do this weekend? Join in the fun at the 22nd annual Chowderfest, held down by the bay, in Bay Village, Beach Haven, Long Beach Island.

Sunday is the clam chowder cook-off, with local restaurants participating. For the price of a ticket ($20/adults, $10/children), you can taste as much clam chowder as you can handle.

The event is held rain or shine, from 11:00 - 4:00. A great way to enjoy the shore in the Fall!

See you there!

Steal This House

Mon, 13 Sep 2010 10:50:43 -0700

Kathy Kenney | Keller Williams Realty | 609-987-8889 or 609-635-3667

100 Nassau Drive, Lawrenceville, NJ

Steal this house! A little sweat equity will bring this brick-front Colonial in desirable Estates at Lawrenceville up to date and make you the proud

4BR/2+1BA Single Family House

offered at $399,900

Year Built	1984
Sq Footage	Unspecified
Bedrooms	4
Bathrooms	2 full, 1 partial
Floors	2
Parking	2 Car garage
Lot Size	Unspecified
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Price reduction reflects the need for updating this 4 BR brick front Colonial located in desirable Estates at Lawrenceville. Invest some sweat equity and make this the home you've been longing for! Formal living and dining rooms make entertaining easy, together with a large, sunny kitchen for preparing meals. Family room with fireplace is where you'll enjoy the cooler weather. 4 bedrooms and 2 full baths comprise the second floor. 2 zone HVAC. Plenty of storage in the basement, which could be finished for additional living space. 2 zone HVAC. Nearby park has lighted soccer fields/tennis courts/baseball fields/2 playgrounds/bike/walking path. Less than a mile to shopping and restaurants in downtown Lawrenceville. Close to Princeton and major highways. Lawrenceville is home of Rider U. !

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Central heat	- Fireplace
- Walk-in closet	- Tile floor	- Family room
- Living room	- Dining room	- Breakfast nook
- Dishwasher	- Refrigerator	- Stove/Oven
- Microwave	- Basement	- Washer
- Dryer	- Laundry area - inside	- Balcony, Deck, or Patio
- Yard

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Garage parking

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Exterior Front	Exterior Back
Family Room	Kitchen Eating Area
Living Room	Dining room

Contact info:

Kathy Kenney

Keller Williams Realty

609-987-8889 or 609-635-3667

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Sep 12, 2010, 2:04pm PDT

Septemberfest, Hamilton, NJ - Rescheduled for Sunday, September 19th

Sun, 12 Sep 2010 17:58:49 -0700

Due to rain, the Septemberfest scheduled for today was postponed and will now be held next Sunday, September 19th,

Lots of great things to do for all ages.

The Septemberfest is a yearly event, held in Veteran's Park,

The Money You "Lost" in Your Price Reduction Wasn't Real

Sat, 11 Sep 2010 11:50:12 -0700

For anyone Sellers that perceive they are losing money with a price reduction, this article is for you! Written by a Realtor in NY, it applies to every market.

Via J. Philip Faranda (J. Philip LLC) Westchester County NY:

With a median home price hovering near $700,000, even a modest price reduction on a Westchester County home can be tens of thousands of dollars. I have to approach a reduction with the diplomacy of a funeral director but be as convincing as a physician imploring his patient to quit smoking.

No one could predict after the stimulus where prices would go, but it is clear that what few buyers we have are skimming the absolute cream off the top and leaving the rest. They even fight over the good stuff, creating an illusion of urgency in isolated precincts. Overall, sadly, median home price is an illusion; it is a metric of the value of those few, unique sought after homes that people watch even when they weren't on sale. They needed nothing. They were priced to the bone for their category.

Money lost in a price reduction was never your money. It was an illusion. It didn't exist. I find myself, more and more, explaining to mournful sellers that the $25,000 that went down the drain when they went from $624,900 to $599,900 was a paramour that never loved them. She never cared, Johnny. The baby wasn't yours. She wanted to close the Copa and make sure you never worked in this town again. For God's sake man pull yourself together, it was all an illusion.

You know, that sort of thing they cover day 2 in licensing class. Or not.

In 2005, 852 single family homes sold in Westchester County with a median price of $732,000.

In 2010, 424 single family homes sold in Westchester County with a median price of $715,000. 428 people got nothing.

The pool of able buyers has shrunken by an absurd amount. Millions of prospects have vanished due to either their own disasters or the new draconian lender underwriting guidelines. What few buyers remain are skeptical, drunk with options, terrified of making a mistake, have no confidence in the future, and are heavily invested in the group think notion that they must get a steal or they will be exposed to grave financial risk. You know, all those happy things perspective home buyers have always focused on.

Here's the reality: If you are multiple listed, staged well, tidy, and have been on the market for 60 or 90 days with no offers or few lookers, the market has spoken; you need to reduce your price. You aren't the McClotchkees down at the end of the cul de sac who sold in the first 30 days. They had something, or ten things, you don't have. And the only adjustment you can make to the buying public is price. A feature ad won't do it. A newspaper display ad won't get it done. Busting your agent's chops to chase down Gladys Pflarphlingston for feedback on a showing 2 weeks ago won't do it. If you are on the MLS, I can show you how many people have clicked on you online and clicked off every week since we listed. You aren't a secret. Quite the opposite: with public searches, serious prospects can tell me their opinion of your toothpaste.

If we are in showing condition with my marketing and you aren't sold, the faster we address price the faster we'll sell. The money you are asking for is not on deposit in the bank of buyer opinion.

We Are Westchester County & Hudson Valley NY Real Estate. Reach Phil at (914) 723-8900.

J. Philip Faranda, Broker-owner, J. Philip Real Estate, LLC. 2010 Vice President, Westchester-Putnam Multiple Listing Service.

I am one of New York's premier short sale REALTORS.

J. Philip Serves Briarcliff Manor, Ossining, Croton, the River Towns, Westchester County, and the bedroom counties of New York City.

Free MLS Search! Register for a Free Listingbook account and search the MLS like an agent.

I am hiring agents. We offer outstanding support, marketing resources, and pasta.

All content/images, unless noted, are the property of J. Philip Faranda & may not be used without permission

Septemberfest at Veteran's Park, Mercer County, NJ

Sat, 11 Sep 2010 10:23:51 -0700

For those of you in or near Mercer County, NJ, the annual Septemberfest will be held tomorrow, September 12, 2010 at Veteran's Park. Once again we will have blue skies and perfect temperatures in which to celebrate Septemberfest!

There will be crafters and vendors, a baking contest, a baby crawl contest and a pie eating contest! A dunk tank, motorcycle display, bean bag toss, pet adoptions, a soccer fitness challenge and a line dancing demonstration, will all be part of the planned activities.

The children will enjoy a petting zoo, magician, sand art, a puppet show, and pony rides.

Septemberfest is a great way to spend the day, get outside, see your friends and neighbors and support the Community. Best of all, admission is FREE!

Tips on how to get your home SOLD in this market...it takes TEAMWORK!

Tue, 07 Sep 2010 18:51:29 -0700

Here are some great tips on how to stage your home to get it SOLD quickly in this market. If you're considering selling your home, give me a call, we specialize in staging to sell!

Via Cynthia Bartch ~ Redesigned Spaces ~ all round nice gal... (Home Stager/Property Stylist, Granville, Ohio):

Here are tips on how to get your home sold in today's market and it takes teamwork baby! Teamwork between you, your RE agent and your family members, everybody has to get in the game. So get ready to read, learn and get busy so you can sell your home. Every selling circumstance is different but this is how I did it successfully and you can too.

The old adage still prevails, location, condition, price, pick your REA wisely and don't forget the WOW FACTOR that's where a home stager/stylist will have your buyers thinking "I want it and I want it now!"

Location

The homes in my area don't move as quickly as home closer to downtown Atlanta but I did have attractive area selling features I could promote. There is a cute historical downtown area, a beautiful lake, water park and rafting nearby so a color handout was added to the promotional material. Look around what your area has to offer and let prospective buyers know all about the fun in your area!

Condition

When I'm speaking of condition I'm talking about the working condition of your home, not cosmetic. If you know something isn't working get it fixed by a professional NOW! The home inspector will no doubt find it and it's better to have little things on the inspector's list and not leave your buyer in doubt about their dream home.

The Home Stager/ Property Stylist will help you with the wow factor

You want your home to appeal to as many buyers as possible and a home stager will be able to help you achieve this look. This is the fun part, I promise you! From a simple consult to a few hours of redesigning, the home stager will give you valuable tips on how to best to prepare your property for sale to get it sold. Since I'm a home stager I knew exactly what to do and followed my own advice. It takes teamwork to achieve this and and the results are gonna pay off, plus you'll garner great new ideas from the stager you can implement in your next home! Here are a few of my own home pictures below;

Have a welcoming front porch Side appeal helps too



Keep it simple and clean off those counters               Open floors plans have to have flow smoothly



Keep it clean and simple at all times           Show off the architectural details not the stuff

Show off updated lighting              Make your outside space inviting with a freshened up deck

Interview your agents

Ask about their marketing plans for your home. Are they open to your photos & marketing ideas? Will they be there for you when you have questions, do they have back up staff to help if you can't get in contact with them? Do they believe in teamwork?

Next the hard part...PRICE. It's time to get serious and realize memories & sentimentality do not add value to your home, it's a whole new market out there. I bought in 2005 and had to come to grips with the real world of selling in a down market. I sought out a savvy REA who wanted to sell homes and not acquire listings. I looked at the comps and trend in home sales in my area she gave me and we both agreed on a realistic selling price. A price that would motivate multiple showings and contracts. Yep it was a hard pill to swallow but hey I wanted the home to sell not sit there and look pretty!

This REA also believes in home staging so I made it easy for her, she's familiar with my work! I asked her to go through the home and recommend any changes I may need to do and I would get them done quickly. Remember it takes teamwork!

Showing your home

Don't turn them down period! It's a total pain showing the home, this part is difficult but you have be ready at all times. The potential buyers you turned down will be off to next property pronto, trust.

This is how I was successful in getting my home sold in a down market. Yep coming to grips with the price point was guttural and never turning down a showing is disruptive but I sold within very, very short time frame and at price I was happy with considering the market. Teamwork with my REA and family helped this house sell baby and not sit!

Redesigned Spaces     www.redesigned-spaces.net

Specializing in Owner Occupied Homes, Floral Design, Custom Art Work, Display Work

Cynthia Bartch ~ cell: 404.509.6046

Granville, Ohio

if you want to use a photo or some copy just email me... more than likely we can work it out

Labor Day - The Last Hurrah of Summer!

Tue, 07 Sep 2010 13:17:46 -0700

Can't believe we just celebrated the last "official" day of Summer! And what a Summer it's been! Here in New Jersey we broke temperature records, and set new ones. So many heat waves, with days in the 90's. But I'm not complaining, last year we had record rain, and not a lot of beach days! Yesterday was one of the nicest beach days of the entire season. Temperatures in the 80's, clear blue sky, and an ocean breeze, it doesn't get any better. So, until next year, I will just have to look at this photo and reflect......

Get ready for Fall, it's on the way!

Tips for Homeowners in the Path of an Approaching Storm

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 08:52:30 -0700

Hopefully you won't need this information, but in the event you do, these are some very good tips, compliments of RISMEDIA.

Tips for Homeowners in the Path of an Approaching Storm

RISMEDIA, September 2, 2010--With the possibility that Hurricane Earl may strike the Eastern Seaboard, the Private Client Group division of Chartis is reminding homeowners that advance planning can make the difference between minor damage and catastrophic property loss. Private Client Group insures owners of large, complex residences as part of its property/casualty program for high-net-worth families, yet all homeowners can benefit from these practical tips to help minimize damage:

When a Hurricane Is Forecast for Your Area
1. Install storm shutters and secure your garage door.
2. Move personal possessions to the center of your home, away from windows
and doors. Elevate your belongings as much as possible in case water pools on the floor around windows and doors.
3. Remove window treatments from windows and French doors. In the event draperies cannot be removed, elevate or secure/encase the lower portion of drapes in plastic.
4. Roll up area rugs and move them to the center of your home. Elevate them if possible.
5. Place towels at the base of terrace doors.
6. Remove all patio furniture from your yard or terrace, and store it in your garage or house. Remove potted plants, lawn ornaments and sculptures and store them indoors.
7. Fill the fuel supply for your back-up electrical generator. Test the generator under load to ensure it is functioning properly.
8. Place important documents, i.e. insurance policies, bank account information, credit card information, important contact numbers, etc. in a plastic container to ensure their availability after the storm passes.

After a Hurricane
1. If you discover water in your home, contact a restoration company immediately to begin the water extraction process.
2. Run the air conditioner to dehumidify your home.
3. Remove any wet items and store them in the garage, if possible.
4. Call your insurance agent or broker to report any damage.

Why Some Houses Sit While Others Sell

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 00:13:01 -0700

Great post from Jay Papasan explaining why some homes sell, and other's don't. It's all about price and condition (location doesn't hurt either, but price and location can alleviate some concerns about location). Thanks to Marilyn for the original post.

Via Marilyn Boudreaux (Century 21 Mike D. Bono & Co.'s):

Why Some Houses Sit While Others Sell

In this short video blog, Real Estate Author, Jay Papasan shares some insight for Sellers regarding pricing your home in a very easy to understand way. As a seller there are basically 3 zones you may find yourself in:

In

No Man's Land

Out of the Market

If you are not getting any showings you are Out of the Market

If you are getting showings but no offers you are close but you may be in no man's land.

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

Copyright 2010 Marilyn Boudreaux

Matching People With Properties in Lake Charles, Sulphur, Westlake, Moss Bluff and other Southwest Louisiana areas.

For more real estate information visit my website marilynboudreauxc21.com

Summer's Last Hurrah!

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 23:32:33 -0700

A few months back, I asked my grandkids what they would like to do this summer. Surprisingly, my 10 yr old grandson said he would like to visit the Statue of Liberty. Not Disney World, not the beach or waterparks, but an educational destination. So today, on one of the hottest days of this very hot summer, we made the trip! This might well be the last day trip we make this summer, depending on what "Earl" has in mind for us! Let's hope that "Earl" decides to head East, and we are able to make the ball game that we have tickets for tomorrow night!

Robbinsville Farmer's Market

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 19:19:59 -0700

What a great time of year to get out and take advantage of a local farmer's market! Conveniently located across from the Washington Town Center, at the intersection of Rt. 33 and Robbinsville-Edinburg Rd., the vendors are there on Mondays from 3-7 through the month of September. Choose from a nice selection of merchants selling their wares. The Pickle Guy offers a nice selection of pickles, olives, mushrooms, peppers, etc. Barbero's Bakery can supply you with rolls/bread, desserts, etc. A few farmers are regulars at the market, and have a nice variety of fresh fruit and vegetables. Another vendor offers dried fruits and nuts.

Support your local farmers!

17 Tips for Packing Like A Pro

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 11:53:00 -0700

Below are some great tips for moving day!

Via David W Stewart Jr Slidell, New Orleans Real Estate Agent (ABEK Real Estate):

17 Tips for Packing Like a Pro

Moving to a new home can be stressful, to say the least. Make it easy on yourself by planning far in advance and making sure you've covered all the bases.

1. Plan ahead by organizing and budgeting. Develop a master "to do" list so you won't forget something critical on moving day, and create an estimate of moving costs. (A moving calculator is available at REALTOR.com)

2. Sort and get rid of things you no longer want or need. Have a garage sale, donate to a charity, or recycle.

3. But don't throw out everything. If your inclination is to just toss it, you're probably right. However, it's possible to go overboard in the heat of the moment. Ask yourself how frequently you use an item and how you'd feel if you no longer had it. That will eliminate regrets after the move.

4. Pack similar items together. Put toys with toys, kitchen utensils with kitchen utensils. It will make your life easier when it's time to unpack.

5. Decide what, if anything, you plan to move on your own. Precious items such as family photos, valuable breakables, or must-haves during the move should probably stay with you. Don't forget to keep a "necessities" bag with tissues, snacks, and other items you'll need that day.

6. Remember, most movers won't take plants. If you don't want to leave them behind, you should plan on moving them yourself.

7. Use the right box for the item. Loose items are prone to breakage.

8. Put heavy items in small boxes so they're easier to lift. Keep the weight of each box under 50 pounds, if possible.

9. Don't over-pack boxes. It increases the likelihood that items inside the box will break.

10. Wrap every fragile item separately and pad bottom and sides of boxes. If necessary, purchase bubble-wrap or other packing materials from moving stores.

11. Label every box on all sides. You never know how they'll be stacked and you don't want to have to move other boxes aside to find out what's there.

12. Use color-coded labels to indicate which room each item should go in. Color-code a floor plan for your new house to help movers.

13. Keep your moving documents together in a file. Include important phone numbers, driver's name, and moving van number. Also keep your address book handy.

14. Print out a map and directions for movers. Make several copies, and highlight the route. Include your cell phone number on the map. You don't want movers to get lost! Also make copies for friends or family who are lending a hand on moving day.

15. Back up your computer files before moving your computer. Keep the backup in a safe place, preferably at an off-site location.

16. Inspect each box and all furniture for damage as soon as it arrives.

17. Make arrangements for small children and pets. Moving can be stressful and emotional. Kids can help organize their things and pack boxes ahead of time, but, if possible, it might be best to spare them from the moving-day madness.

This has been Reprinted from REALTOR® magazine (REALTOR.org/realtormag http://www.realtor.org/realtormag) with permission of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®. Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.

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David Stewart- Realtor

David Stewart

820 Oak Harbor Blvd

Slidell, LA 70458

(985)710-1728

dstewart.realestate@gmail.com