Bergen County Happenings and Real Estate

It is a great time to sell in Ramsey. Here's why...

Kristin Graves (RE/MAX Properties) — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 09:10:52 -0700

As with most of Northwest Bergen County, the housing market in Ramsey has seen a big shift in recent months. After weathering a few years of stagnation and falling prices, we're now seeing multiple offers and quick sales on single-family homes in this desirable town.

I decided to dig deeper to get an understanding as to why many homes are selling within weeks of coming on the market in Ramsey and how this activity compares to surrounding towns like Allendale and Mahwah as well as NW Bergen County as a whole. Consider the following:

Inventory in Ramsey was down 41% Q1 2012 vs. Q1 2013. This is significantly lower than Allendale (down 9% YOY) and Mahwah, which has stayed relatively flat. NW Bergen County (Allendale, Franklin Lakes, Glen Rock, Ho-Ho-Kus, Ridgewood, Mahwah, Midland Park, Oakland, Ridgewood, Waldwick, Wyckoff) has seen a decline in active homes on the market by 15%. Ramsey's 41% decline in actives eclipses that of the area's average.

Update: For April, actives in Ramsey increased as the month saw 24 new listings and 5 came under contract. As of 5/1, there are 50 active listings and 26 under contract, with an average Days on the Market of 98 days.

Who wouldn't want to live in Ramsey?

Great schools. Read the school report and compare it to others in the area.
Easy commute to NYC - Two trains to NYC and Hoboken as well as bus service to Port Authority
Walkable town center - Restaurants, shops, and a movie theater keep the town abuzz with activity
Recreational activities - Huge recreational sports programs for children and adults plus close to skiing (Campgaw - 10 min away), golf (Darlington - 10 minutes away) and hiking (Ramapo Reservation and Harimann State Park)

Buyer backlog - Now that the economy is starting to show signs of recovery, unemployment rates are decreasing, and more family units are forming, the number of active, pre-approved buyers are increasing and are backlogging due to lack of adequate inventory to meet demand.
Interest rates are low, but creeping up. According to Luke Chamberlin of NJ Lenders, there is upward pressure on the interest rates. Everyone hit the bottom in the Fall and the trend is heading upwards.

While prices haven't increased too much and we're still at 2003 prices, multiple offers and low inventory will start to push prices upwards.

If you are contemplating selling a home in Ramsey NJ or anywhere else in NW Bergen County, now is the time to do it! Call me for a complimentary comparative market analysis and a more detailed report of what is happening in Ramsey NJ today. I can be reached at 201-562-3880 or at kristingraves@remax.net. You can also see more homes at my website.

NEW Listing - 4BR, 2bath home in the Ramsey Golf & County Club

Kristin Graves (RE/MAX Properties) — Mon, 04 Feb 2013 18:31:52 -0800

291 Nottingham Rd, Ramsey NJ

Immaculate 4 bedroom, 2 bath home at the end of a cul-de-sac in the desirable Ramsey Golf & Country Club (memb. Req.) in Ramsey NJ awaits a buyer who wishes to do nothing more than unpack!

Eat-in kitchen with granite counters and maple cabinetry, formal dining room and living room with hardwood floors, 2 renovated full baths with tasteful fixtures, and a family room with fireplace and sliders to deck/yard.plus anderson windows, newer Central Air and roof, security system, underground sprinklers and new hot water heater.

Ramsey Golf and Country Club is unique community in the town of Ramsey that offers 18-hole private golf, paddle tennis, pool, lake for fishing/canoeing, social activities, and 2 restaurants. All this plus ramsey's award-winning schools, town center with shops and restaurants and convenient commuting options to NYC. What are you waiting for? This Ramsey home is the one for you! $465,000

About the Ramsey Golf & Country Club

The Ramsey Golf & Country Club, located in Ramsey NJ is comprised of 550 homes and boasts amenities such as an 18-hole golf course, paddle tennis, a pool, and a clubhouse home to 2 restaurants, a bustling bar and a ballroom big enough to host parties of more than 200 guests.

With club membership, comes the opportunity to join golf, paddle or the pool. The golf programs offer something for every household: the most reasonably-priced packages for family, individuals, weekday only and junior in probably the entire Tri-State area. Unlimited golf on a private, 18-hole course in the middle of the neighborhood while being only 40 minutes from Manhattan is truly unique. The pool is situated on Mirror Lake and has a competitive swim team for children. The Paddle Tennis program is becoming wildly popular both from a social and competitive standpoint for players at all levels.

The Club also offers a wide range of social activities encouraging camaraderie. Recent parties like Oktoberfest, Comedy Night, St. Patrick’s Day and 70s/80s have drawn up to 200 members and their friends at each event . The Club hosts free events for the children like the Holiday Party (Santa arrives on a golf cart!), Spring party (egg hunt and petting zoo!) and Halloween (complete with costume parade!). From the luminaries spectacular on Christmas Eve where every street in the club is lit with candles to gathering to watching the 4th of July fireworks on the 12th fairway, there’s always an example of this community camaraderie. Winter days draw the kids to the 14th fairway to sled or to skate on one of the four lakes. Ramsey Country Club & Golf summers are busy with swim team meets, canoeing and fishing on the lake, BBQs on the patio, golf tournaments, and the very popular Junior golf program.

Beyond the amenities, Club members also praise the unique community the Ramsey Golf & Country Club has created. Some members are second generation, having grown up in the club and deciding to return to raise their own families. Others come to the Ramsey Golf & Country Club to meet people and make friends quickly. The affordable golf packages and sporting options for the whole family make it an exceptional and unmatched opportunity in Bergen County. It is truly a "community within a community".

If you would like to learn more about the Ramey Golf & Country Club in Ramsey New Jersey or any other towns in northwest Bergen County, please contact me, Kristin Graves, at kristingraves@remax.net or 201-825-6600 ext 222.

NEW Listing in the Ramsey Golf & Country Club

Kristin Graves (RE/MAX Properties) — Mon, 04 Feb 2013 18:20:13 -0800

"Deceivingly spacious".

That was the feedback from a recent showing of this 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath Sugar Maple split. The layout is unique but conducive to today's buyer looking for an open floor plan made for entertaining and space for everyone.

This well-maintained 4BR, 2.5 bath Sugar Maple Split home in the desirable Ramsey Golf & Country (memb. req.) in Ramsey NJ has charm through and through!

Enter the wide entry foyer which leads to the mudroom and a bedroom which can easily be used as an office/den. Up a few stairs, you’ll find a huge living room with vaulted ceiling, brick fireplace and floor-to-ceiling windows. The eat-in kitchen has a beautiful bay window overlooking the level yard and a door to the 3-season screened-in porch.

Upstairs are the MBR with a full bath as well as 2 additional bedrooms and a full main bath. Hardwood floors in almost every room under the carpets. Plus a newer furnace (2007), 2-car garage and full basement.

The 550 homeowners in the Ramsey Golf & Country Club, located 45 minutes from NYC, have a unique opportunity to join a private 18-hole golf course located in the neighborhood. Inventory in this desirable area of Ramsey, home to award-winning schools and convenient NYC commuting options, has been light as of late, but recently the Cleary Team has listed this lovely home in "the Club".

See it today and tee off by April 1! $529,000

About the Ramsey Golf & Country Club

The Ramsey Golf & Country Club, located in Ramsey NJ is comprised of 550 homes and boasts amenities such as an 18-hole golf course, paddle tennis, a pool, and a clubhouse home to 2 restaurants, a bustling bar and a ballroom big enough to host parties of more than 200 guests.

With club membership, comes the opportunity to join golf, paddle and/or the pool. The golf programs offer something for every household: the most reasonably-priced packages for family, individuals, weekday only and junior in probably the entire Tri-State area. Unlimited golf on a private, 18-hole course in the middle of the neighborhood while being only 40 minutes from Manhattan is truly unique. The pool is situated on Mirror Lake and has a competitive swim team for children. The Paddle Tennis program is becoming wildly popular both from a social and competitive standpoint for players at all levels.

The Ramsey Golf and Country Club also offers a wide range of social activities encouraging camaraderie. Recent parties like Oktoberfest, Comedy Night, St. Patrick’s Day and 70s/80s have drawn up to 200 members and their friends at each event . The Club hosts free events for the children like the Holiday Party (Santa arrives on a golf cart!), Spring party (egg hunt and petting zoo!) and Halloween (complete with costume parade!). From the luminaries spectacular on Christmas Eve where every street in the club is lit with candles to gathering to watching the 4th of July fireworks on the 12th fairway, there’s always an example of this community camaraderie. Winter days draw the kids to the 14th fairway to sled or to skate on one of the four lakes. Ramsey Country Club & Golf summers are busy with swim team meets, canoeing, kayaking and fishing on the lake, BBQs on the patio, golf tournaments, and the very popular Junior golf program.

Beyond the amenities, Club members also praise the unique community the Ramsey Golf & Country Club has created. Some members are second generation, having grown up in the club and deciding to return to raise their own families. Others come to the Ramsey Golf & Country Club to meet people and make friends quickly. The affordable golf packages and sporting options for the whole family make it an exceptional and unmatched opportunity in Bergen County. It is truly a "community within a community".

If you would like to learn more about the Ramsey Golf & Country Club in Ramsey New Jersey or homes for sale in Ramsey or any other towns in northwest Bergen County, please contact me, Kristin Graves, at kristingraves@remax.net or 201-825-6600 ext 222.

Hindsight is 50/50 - What I'd do differently when facing a hurricane

Kristin Graves (RE/MAX Properties) — Thu, 01 Nov 2012 14:00:38 -0700

I type this at the oasis that is my RE/MAX Properties office in what seems to be only a handful of places in NW Bergen County NJ that has power.

Being in the midst of my very first (serious) hurricane and being out of power for the first time ever, I can now reflect on what preparations I SHOULD have done before the Hurricane Sandy hit my state. Now, folks in Florida or Texas are probably well-versed in disaster preparations but for people in North Jersey, we just don't go through hurricanes of this magnitude, thankfully. Here's a list of preparations that I did do (and glad I did) or I wished I had done.

Before the Storm

- Listen to the newscasts and heed their warnings. Sure, they have a record of making mountains out of molehills but their tone was much different this time around.

- Fill up your gas tanks and gas cans. It's been 3 days since the storm hit and gas is only getting more scarce. There are lines for gas that are 2 miles long right now for the few stations that have gas. Plus, with so many people using generators, gas consumption is even higher. I find this much scarier than having no power for a week.

- Make reservations at a hotel. It's hit or miss because their power could be cut off as well but you can always cancel day-of if power is restored. If you have a reservation, you'll be so thankful to have a nice warm room and bed, hot shower, indoor pool for the kids, and restaurants with food.

- Do laundry. Clean every stitch of clothing that you have because you don't know when you'll be able to do laundry again.

- Buy underwear. In the event that you have to go more than a week without power and you no longer have a fresh pair, whip out the jumbo pack from Target which can buy you another week.

- Buy essentials. Parmalat milk, canned goods, paper plates (no dishwasher or hot water, remember?), water and juice boxes, fruit, applesauce, pancake mix, energy bars, and peanut butter and crackers.

- Start eating all your frozen food. I wish I began eating all my frozen meats last week in preparation. Now I'm forced to chuck it all.

- Have a copy of your insurance info. You may not be able to fish it out of your file cabinet when the chaos begins.

- Close your transaction. Did you know that if you are under contract with purchasing or selling a property, the bank will need to come out and physically inspect the property to ensure it is not damaged? There will be a big delay of closings for properties that were due to close in November and that's only if the property was not damaged during the hurricane.

During storm

- Hunker down in an interior room or the basement (only if you don't expect flooding)

- Wear bike helmets in case of a falling tree or flying debris

- Keep water, snacks, transistor radio and flashlights close by.

- Surpress the urge to look out the window or go out on the porch or deck.

After the storm

- Check in on your neighbors and friends. Make sure that they have relatives nearby who can shelter them.

- Get word out to your loved ones that all is okay as soon as you can. They'll be anxious to know that you are okay.

- Conserve gas and if you have to get gas, find a gas station that is open 24/7 and go at some ungodly hour to avoid long lines of cranky drivers.

- Get connected via Twitter and Facebook. Friend or follow your local police department, Office of Emergency Management, your electric company, and anyone who might have a clue as to what is going on.

- Have patience and faith. Have faith that your local officials and the power companies are doing everything they can to get things back to normal. But it is, what it is. Yes, it is frustrating, cold and paralyzing but the situation is TEMPORARY and could be so much worse. See: any photo from Seaside Heights, Pt. Pleasant, Lavalette, Long Beach, Breezy Point, Fire Island, or Staten Island. People lost their homes. They lost their possessions. They lost their lives.

Got a tip on how to be better equipped the next time, God forbid, this happens? Let me know. I hope to never have to use it but then again, it's better to be prepared, right?

Exclusive House for Rent - 3 Bedroom, 2.5 bath Colonial in Ramsey NJ

Kristin Graves (RE/MAX Properties) — Tue, 02 Oct 2012 10:02:55 -0700

Exclusive Rental Opportunity in the Ramsey Golf and Country Club!

FOR RENT - Furnished or Unfurnished.

Rarely does a clubside property become available for rent, and even more rare is one that is charming, in pristine condition and has views of the golf course.

This 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath Colonial on one of the most desirable streets in the Ramsey Golf and Country Club boasts a granite eat-in kitchen with stainless steel appliances, family room, living room/dining room, 2 fireplaces, finished basement with bonus room (perfect for an office), and professional landscaping. Plus central air, hardwood floors, built-ins and charm throughout. It has been freshly painted with neutral colors so all you need to do is unpack! Available November 1st unfurnished, furnished or partially furnished (extra fees for furnished).

Whether you desire to be close to one of the major corporations in Bergen County like KPMG, Pearson, Mercedes, BMW, Hertz, Becton Dickenson, UPS or Stryker, or looking for an easy 50-minute train or bus commute to New York City, this is the location for you. Nestled within a quiet golf course community, you'll get the best of both worlds.

Close to town, schools, the Club and NYC transportation makes this home even more desirable. Plus, if golf or paddle tennis is your thing, you can elect to take advantage of all the the Ramsey Golf and Country Club has to offer (additional, yet affordable, fees apply).

$4000/month.

Contact Listing Agent Julie Cleary or Kristin Graves of the Cleary Team at 201-825-6600 or email julie@juliecleary.com for more information.

RE/MAX Properties

82 E. Allendale Rd

Suite 4B

Saddle River, NJ 07458

Last-minute day trips for kids before school starts

Kristin Graves (RE/MAX Properties) — Tue, 21 Aug 2012 06:53:46 -0700

The countdown is on. With still 2 more weeks until school starts, you might find yourself scrambling to fill in days with activities to ward off the endless statements of "I'm bored" from your children.

Here are a few Northern New Jersey excursions you should consider checking out:

See an actual working sheep dairy! Tour Valley Shepard Creamery in Long Valley, NJ every weekend, at 1pm and 4pm. Visit the ewe barn, milking parlor and cheese making room – meet newborn lambs! A bit of farm experience for learning fun! Great outdoor fun for kids!

Harriman State Park in Westchester County, New York offers kayak rentals on their seven beautiful lakes. Amid the gorgeous scenery, you’ll also find space to hike and fish. You'll really be lovin' the great outdoors and your kids will too!

The great outdoors doesn’t get much greater than Ramapo Valley County Reservation in Mahwah, NJ. From easy strolls around Scarlet Oak Pond and MacMillan Reservoir (bring the family dog along as well!) to the more challenging trails on the eastern side of the mountains, there are almost twenty miles to enjoy. This is a great venue for children to expend all their energy!

Get the bikes out and pick your route. The Ridgewood to Rochelle Park trail is nearly ten miles long and one of the area’s favorite spot for family biking. Well-maintained and full of beautiful scenery, you’ll find rest rooms, ample parking and a smooth, flat surface. From beginning bikers to skilled ones, the is a great outdoor activity for kids.

Mahwah, NJ offers the terrific Darlington Golf Center of the Bergen County Parks system. A driving range offers fair – and poor – weather entertainment and the Darlington Café is a great place for an after-hitting Kids Snack.

Van Saun Park in Paramus, NJ is a longtime favorite activity for children of all ages. It's a treasure trove of fun for all ages. Beyond the beautiful park, Carousel and gardens, there’s the Miniature Train Ride and terrific Bergen County Zoological Park as well. Afterwards, settle down for a picnic at one of the many pretty spots in the park.

West Orange, NJ’s Turtle Back Zoo is the number one Zoo in NJ (as voted by NJ Monthly Magazine) and well worth the title. No matter what time of year, there’s always something to see and do at this fun attraction. There’s also a train, carousel, playground and pony rides! Kids love this place!

Abma’s Farm in Wyckoff, NJ has been a staple for children for generations. This 30 acre farm dates back to the late 1700’s and many of the buildings have been well-preserved, including a 200 year old barn (one of the last in standing in Bergen County). The kids can enjoy the animals and out buildings while grownups shop at the bakery or retail market.

New Jersey is the Garden State and everyone should take advantage of that! Pick your own apple, berry and pumpkin farms dot the Northern New Jersey landscape, providing hours of fun – and hand-picked produce as well! Beemerville Orchards in Sussex, NJ, Demarest Farm in Hillsdale, NJ and Longmeadow Farm in Hope, NJ are just a tiny sampling of the farms open year round for picking.

How about some old school movie fun at the Warwick Drive-In located in Warwick, NY? Enjoy first run movies, a great snack bar and nostalgia on this 11 acre blast from the past. The kids will love the experience!

And the best part about this list? It's just a tiny sampling of all the wonderful adventures waiting for kids (and their grown-ups!) in Northern New Jersey.

Want to learn more about Northern New Jersey and homes for sale? Contact Kristin Graves, Sales Associate at RE/MAX Properties at 201-825-6600 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 201-825-6600 end_of_the_skype_highlighting or visit www.kristingraves.com.

Summertime in Ramsey NJ

Kristin Graves (RE/MAX Properties) — Fri, 06 Jul 2012 10:24:21 -0700

Summer is in full-swing in Ramsey NJ! Activities and community events keep residents active during the summer months.

Independence Day - On Saturday, July 7th, Ramsey celebrates Independence Day at Finch Park with day-long festivities including an All-Star Softball game benefiting Ramsey's VFW (12pm), BBQ cookout, live music and a spectacular fireworks display (9pm). More details can be found here.

Finch Park Camp - Children from 5-12 enjoy fun-filled days of games during the month of July.

Ramsey Municipal Pool - A new slide was erected this season and plans are being discussed to renovated the pool next year.

Ramsey Farmers' Market - Enjoy the freshest local produce and products featured by over 30 vendors, great music, children's crafts, festivals, featured chefs, crafts persons and much more. Buy local, buy fresh! Every Sunday at the Train Station from 9am-2pm.

Ramsey Day - On Saturday September 9th, Ramsey's annual event takes place in front of the high school. Games and rides, food and fun! Check the Ramsey Municipal site for details.

Jack McKeown Memorial Ramsey Run - Residents take to the streets for the 35th annual Jack McKeown Memorial Ramsey Run. 10k and 5k races. $25 entrance fee. Free t-shirt! Date TBD but check here for details.

Plus the town of Ramsey comes alive with people walking Main Street for a treat at Joel's, Planet Swirl, Baked in a Cup or LoLos, taking in a movie at the Ramsey Cinema, and dining at Cafe Panache, Varka, Brady's at the Station or Anthony Franco's.

====================================================

Think Ramsey NJ is your kind of town? Check out these featured listings in Ramsey NJ:

182 Norman Drive - Set atop what some call the highest point in Ramsey this fabulous 4br, 3.5 bath colonial in the Ramsey Golf and Country Club with approximately 3000 sq. ft. of living space. The eat-in kitchen has sparkling granite countertops, stainless steel appliances and custom cabinetry and opens up to 2 different family rooms: the smaller one is sunken off of the kitchen and perfect for those who like to entertain while cooking and the 2nd FR is large with FPL, beamed ceilings and sliders to a big deck. The huge MBR is a true retreat with a walk-in closet, sitting area and a master bath with double sink vanity and 5-head shower. Other features incl: full finish basement, 2 car garage, 5 zone heat, 2 zone a/c, underground sprinklers, security system, and level fenced-in yard. $700,000.

To learn more about Northern New Jersey and homes for sale in Ramsey and other Bergen County towns, contact Kristin Graves, Sales Associate at RE/MAX Properties at 201-825-6600 or visit www.kristingraves.com.

10 Reasons to Love Living in the Ramsey Golf & Country Club

Kristin Graves (RE/MAX Properties) — Wed, 13 Jun 2012 11:39:33 -0700

There are many reasons why people love living in the Ramsey Golf and Country Club in Ramsey, NJ. Besides access to affordable golf, paddle tennis and social events, there are other examples of what makes RGCC such a unique place and why it is consider a "community within a community". These are some aspects of the Club community that might not be well known:

10. The Annual Turkey Trot - hosted by a family on Canterbury Drive, this 5k run/walk and food drive is held Thanksgiving morning and offers a special opportunity to reunite with friends and neighbors. This family also collects food donations for the Center for Food Action while supplying coffee, juice and bagels to runners and fans.

9. The Max Cure Burger Throwdown - Another "do good" event that demonstrates the heart and soul of the people who live in this special community.

Read about the most recent Burger Throwdown here.

Read more about Max Cure Foundation and to see how you can help.

8. 4th of July Fireworks - Every Independence Day, members and their friends descend upon the 14th fairway with their blankets, lawn chairs and coolers to watch Allendale's fireworks display.

7. Canoeing and fishing on the Lake - A tranquil setting on the club grounds, members use the private lake to canoe, row and fish. There's even an elusive fish in the lake called "Big Whitey" that has been too smart to be baited. From the pool deck, you can sometimes see it swim near the surface of the lake.

6. Halloween - take a walk through Morton and Canterbury Drives on Halloween and you'll understand why this neighborhood is so popular for trick o' treating. Packs of children carrying bags and parents (in costumes as well) pulling wagons, the neighborhood comes alive with a truly festive feeling.

5. Jr. Golf- The massively popular Jr. Golf Program invites kids in the club over the age of 9 to learn about the game and compete with their friends. It's a popular program (drawing 75-100 children) the likes of which are not match by any of the private clubs in Bergen County.

4. Block parties - Because of the tight friendships formed in this community, many streets hold their own block parties complete with bands, entertainment for kids, food and beverages.

3.Luminaries - A sight to behold and one that can be see from the air, luminaries are placed along the edge of every street in the Club every December 24th.

2. Free activities for children - From Chef Arthur hosting kids to plant a vegetable and herb garden for the restaurant or decorating cookies for the Holidays, there are many events that children can participate in, in addition to the Holiday parties, outdoor movies and fun nights that are planned throughout the year.

1. Neighbors helping neighbors - In any community, tragedies and hardships can sometimes occur unfortunately. But when they do, residents of RGCC can count on their neighbors to rally with support, prayers and good wishes. From meal deliveries to taking care of yard work, this special community steps up to help neighbors get through tough times.

Think the Ramsey Golf and Country Club is for you? If you'd like more information on the Ramsey Golf and Country Club or if you're interested in other homes for sale in or around Ramsey NJ please contact me at RE/MAX Properties. My office number is 201-825-6600. You can also see more homes at my website.

May Happenings at the Ramsey Golf & Country Club and Homes for Sale

Kristin Graves (RE/MAX Properties) — Fri, 11 May 2012 10:03:38 -0700

May Happenings at the Ramsey Golf & Country Club in Ramsey NJ:

May 13 - Mother's Day Brunch and Dinner. Open to the Public. Choose to take the special woman in your life to brunch in the Ballroo, or dinner in the Abbey. Call 201-327-0009 for details and reservations

May 28, 5pm- Red, White and Blue BBQ. Members and their guests are invited to a BBQ on the patio with live music.

May 30 - Ladies' Member/Guest Golf Tournament

May 31st, 7pm-A Tuscan Wine Dinner at the Abbey! Building on the overwhelming success of the Hess Wine Dinner in April, the second dinner will feature a heavenly pairing of central and northern Italian food specialties paired with very limited selection of Tuscan wines ranging from vineyards such as San Quirici, with their organically grown grapes to the noble Chiantis of Castello Di Bossi, and the sun-drenched Super-Tuscans of Poggio Al Tesoro, ending the soiree with the tremendous dessert wine of Vin Santo D’Altessi! $85.00 per person plus tax and gratuity.

June 6, 6pm on the Patio - Grill Lesson with Chef Arthur. Enjoy a relaxing evening on the patio and learn how to master the art of grilling meat, fish and poultry with our chef. With tips and tricks for the best ingredients and grilling techniques, we invite you, your family and friends to join us for an evening of BBQ fun! $25 per person includes light dinner fare, BBQ bites and sangria.

Live music in the bar every Thursday night from 7-10pm and on Saturdays 8:30-11:30!

For more details on these and other events at the Ramsey Golf & Country Club, visit www.ramseycountryclub.com.

HOMES FOR SALE IN THE CLUB

Be a part of this special community in Ramsey NJ! These featured Ramsey Golf and Country Club homes are for sale:

182 Norman Drive - Set atop what some call the highest point in Ramsey this fabulous 4br, 3.5 bath colonial with approximately 3000 sq. ft. of living space. The eat-in kitchen with charming alcove is updated with sparkling granite countertops, stainless steel appliances and custom cabinetry and opens up to 2 different family rooms: the smaller one is sunken off of the kitchen and perfect for those who like to entertain while cooking and the 2nd FR is large with FPL, beamed ceilings and sliders to a big deck. The huge MBR is a true retreat with a walk-in closet, sitting area and a master bath with double sink vanity and 5-head shower. Other features incl: full finish basement, 2 car garage, 5 zone heat, 2 zone a/c, underground sprinklers, security system, and level fenced-in yard. $700,000

21 Balfour Lane - Not a drive by! Meticulously-maintained 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath Colonial on a quiet street in Ramsey boasts a renovated kitchen with granite countertops and top-of-the-line stainless steel appliances (Thermador, Subzero, Bosch), a huge Master bedroom suite with walk-in closet and gas fireplace, and a walk-out finished basement with bonus room - perfect for a guest room or office. Nothing to do but to set up your tee times and relax! Lots of room for everyone! $599,000.

65 Arlena - Nestled on a tranquil clubside street is this lovely 4 BR, 2.5 bath Colonial. The curb appeal alone will draw you into this inviting home. Since 2007, many improvements have been made including: 28 new windows, sliding door from sunroom to deck, water heater, some new doors, updated electric, kitchen with stainless steel appliances, powder room, laundry/mudroom, refinished floors and much more. Must see to appreciate! $649,900.

291 Nottingham - Immaculate 4BR, 2 bath home at the end of a cul-de-sac in the desirable Ramsey Golf & Country Club awaits a buyer who wishes to do nothing more than unpack! Eat-in kitchen with granite counters and maple cabinetry, formal dining room and living room with hardwood floors, 2 renovated full baths with tasteful fixtures, and a family room with fireplace and sliders to deck/yard.plus Anderson windows, newer C/A/C and roof, security system, underground sprinklers and new hot water heater. $479,000 - JUST REDUCED!

About the Ramsey Golf & Country Club

The Ramsey Golf & Country Club, located in Ramsey NJ is comprised of 550 homes and boasts amenities such as an 18-hole golf course, paddle tennis, a pool, and a clubhouse home to 2 restaurants, a bustling bar and a ballroom big enough to host parties of more than 200 guests.

With club membership, comes the opportunity to join golf, paddle or the pool. The golf programs offer something for every household: the most reasonably-priced packages for family, individuals, weekday only and junior in probably the entire Tri-State area. Unlimited golf on a private, 18-hole course in the middle of the neighborhood while being only 40 minutes from Manhattan is truly unique. The pool is situated on Mirror Lake and has a competitive swim team for children. The Paddle Tennis program is becoming wildly popular both from a social and competitive standpoint for players at all levels.

The Ramsey Golf and Country Club also offers a wide range of social activities encouraging camaraderie. Recent parties like Oktoberfest, Comedy Night, St. Patrick’s Day and 70s/80s have drawn up to 200 members and their friends at each event . The Club hosts free events for the children like the Holiday Party (Santa arrives on a golf cart!), Spring party (egg hunt and petting zoo!) and Halloween (complete with costume parade!). From the luminaries spectacular on Christmas Eve where every street in the club is lit with candles to gathering to watching the 4th of July fireworks on the 12th fairway, there’s always an example of this community camaraderie. Winter days draw the kids to the 14th fairway to sled or to skate on one of the four lakes. Ramsey Country Club & Golf summers are busy with swim team meets, canoeing and fishing on the lake, BBQs on the patio, golf tournaments, and the very popular Junior golf program.

Beyond the amenities, Club members also praise the unique community the Ramsey Golf & Country Club has created. Some members are second generation, having grown up in the club and deciding to return to raise their own families. Others come to the Ramsey Golf & Country Club to meet people and make friends quickly. The affordable golf packages and sporting options for the whole family make it an exceptional and unmatched opportunity in Bergen County. It is truly a "community within a community".

If you would like to learn more about the Ramsey Golf & Country Club in Ramsey New Jersey or homes for sale in Ramsey or any other towns in northwest Bergen County, please contact me, Kristin Graves, at kristingraves@remax.net or 201-825-6600 ext 222.

So you want to be a Realtor...

Kristin Graves (RE/MAX Properties) — Wed, 02 May 2012 10:26:59 -0700

An acquaintance of mine recently revealed that she has always wanted to be a Realtor. After emerging from the worst real estate market in history, my first reaction was “Why on earth would you want to go and do something crazy like that?” Thankfully, I suppressed my initial response and asked her why she was interested in a career in real estate. She replied, “Well, I love HGTV and searching for homes online and going to different open houses. It’s fun!”

Yes, it can be fun especially when working with great clients. But that is only a piece of what we do as Realtors and, trust me, the novelty of viewing stranger’s homes and their décor wares off quickly. Showing a home is much more than getting a glimpse of different architecture and design.

When showing a home, I look beyond how the home is decorated or how the walls are painted. It’s easy to get sucked into the allure of a room that looks like it just came off the pages of a Pottery Barn catalog but while someone might be ooh-ing and aah-ing about a house staged perfectly, I’m looking at the following:

Flow and layout - Is there the possibility that rooms could be reconfigured or transformed into an open floor plan? Are there expansion possibilities?

Windows – are they newer or are they the first thing that buyer will need to invest in after closing?

Heating system – Whether it is baseboard, forced hot air, radiator or radiant, each heating system comes with it pros and cons of which a buyer may not be aware.

Floors – Are they level? Is the material in good condition? Could there be potentially beautiful hardwood under that carpet?

Ceiling – Any signs of water damage? Any patches of new paint which could indicate a cover-up?

I’m not a licensed inspector but I will point out things that my buyer might have overlooked and that I feel should be evaluated by a professional. Aesthetics can always be changed with a fresh coat of paint and a buyer’s personal items and usually without a lot of investment. However, the bones and condition of the house is what can make or break a deal and helping a buyer absorb this during a showing is what I do.

So to those people who are intrigued by the “glamour” of being a Realtor, I say maybe you should stick to watching HGTV or go on the Holiday House tours in Ridgewood . Being a Realtor is not for the faint of heart. There’s a lot of hard work that goes into it such as marketing, negotiating, problem-solving, research, and even psychotherapy. But I’ll leave all that for another post ;-).

Know someone who looking to buy or sell a home in Bergen County NJ? Contact me at 201-825-6600 or at www.kristingraves.com

A lesson learned from a colleague's passing

Kristin Graves (RE/MAX Properties) — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 12:40:22 -0700

I just got back from a memorial service for one of our agents. Vicki was diagnosed with terminal cancer only a few weeks ago and met it head on with grace and dignity. She was supported by many friends and her family as we would all hope to be if we find ourselves in the same unfortunate situation.

What struck me, as I listened to her friends and family so eloquently tell stories about her humor, kindness, intelligence and ability to make an out-of-this-world-good chicken salad, was the realization that I missed the opportunity to REALLY get to know Vicki. I saw her almost every day in the office and often we would commiserate about a deal that had gone sour or a difficult client. I knew that she had 2 sons in their 20s, was divorced after being married 25 years and just last summer finally took her dream vacation by going to Greece with her boys. I didn't put in the effort into to getting to know her better, mostly because my focus in the office has been managing and growing my business. I regret that after hearing these intimate, funny stories about her that I only knew her on the surface, co-worker to co-worker, water cooler kind of stuff. Watching her sons stoically memorialize her with humor and reverance, I saw Vicki in a whole different light.

So, thank you, Vicki. You tought me a lesson this week. I will make more of effort to know the people I interact with regularly on a more personal level. And I wish I had another chance to taste your famous chicken salad.

Country Club living - 40 minutes outside Manhattan

Kristin Graves (RE/MAX Properties) — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 11:46:22 -0700

Easy living awaits a discerning buyer who is looking for space, amenities and convenient commuting options. Introducing this spacious 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath colonial house for sale, perched on top what many say is the highest point in Ramsey NJ.

Set back from the street with a measure of privacy, this Colonial's first floor layout consists of a charming front porch, wide entry foyer, formal living room with hardwood floors and a wood-burning fireplace, formal dining room with chair rails and hardwood floors and more! The eat-in kitchen has been renovated with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances and custom cabinetry. There's also a small alcove that could become a banquette or homework area.

Sunken off the kitchen is a delightful den making a perfect space for those who like to interact with family or friends while cooking. A tile floor leads into the laundry area and powder room.

On the 1st floor there is also a very large family room with beamed ceilings, hardwood floors, wood-burning fireplace (with gas hookup) and wet bar. Sliders lead out to the very large deck and fenced-in level yard. There is a gas line to the grill as well so no propane refills needed!

Upstairs, the master bedroom serves as a calm retreat with sitting area, walk-in closet and bathroom with double-sink vanity and 5-head shower stall. There's 3 other bedrooms, one of which has its own bathroom, and a main bath.

The basement is finished and makes for a terrific playroom or teen area. Plus lots of storage.

This fantastic home also boasts 5-zone heat, 2-zone A/C, newer furnace, 75-gallon hotwater heater, cedar closet, underground sprinklers, security system, fenced-in level yard, 2-car garage, and so much more.

If you would like more information about this wonderful 4 bedroom Colonial house for sale in Ramsey NJ, please contact Kristin Graves, Realtor, RE/MAX Properties, 201-825-6600 x 222.

About the Ramsey Golf & Country Club

The Ramsey Golf & Country Club, located in Ramsey NJ is comprised of 550 homes and boasts amenities such as an 18-hole golf course, paddle tennis, a pool, and a clubhouse home to 2 restaurants, a bustling bar and a ballroom big enough to host parties of more than 200 guests.

With club membership, comes the opportunity to join golf, paddle or the pool. The golf programs offer something for every household: the most reasonably-priced packages for family, individuals, weekday only and junior in probably the entire Tri-State area. Unlimited golf on a private, 18-hole course in the middle of the neighborhood while being only 40 minutes from Manhattan is truly unique. The pool is situated on Mirror Lake and has a competitive swim team for children. The Paddle Tennis program is becoming wildly popular both from a social and competitive standpoint for players at all levels.

The Ramsey Golf and Country Club also offers a wide range of social activities encouraging camaraderie. Recent parties like Oktoberfest, Comedy Night, St. Patrick’s Day and 70s/80s have drawn up to 200 members and their friends at each event . The Club hosts free events for the children like the Holiday Party (Santa arrives on a golf cart!), Spring party (egg hunt and petting zoo!) and Halloween (complete with costume parade!). From the luminaries spectacular on Christmas Eve where every street in the club is lit with candles to gathering to watching the 4th of July fireworks on the 12th fairway, there’s always an example of this community camaraderie. Winter days draw the kids to the 14th fairway to sled or to skate on one of the four lakes. Ramsey Country Club & Golf summers are busy with swim team meets, canoeing and fishing on the lake, BBQs on the patio, golf tournaments, and the very popular Junior golf program.

Beyond the amenities, Club members also praise the unique community the Ramsey Golf & Country Club has created. Some members are second generation, having grown up in the club and deciding to return to raise their own families. Others come to the Ramsey Golf & Country Club to meet people and make friends quickly. The affordable golf packages and sporting options for the whole family make it an exceptional and unmatched opportunity in Bergen County. It is truly a "community within a community".

If you would like to learn more about the Ramsey Golf & Country Club in Ramsey New Jersey or homes for sale in Ramsey or any other towns in northwest Bergen County, please contact me, Kristin Graves, at kristingraves@remax.net or 201-825-6600 ext 222.

April Happenings at the Ramsey Golf & Country Club

Kristin Graves (RE/MAX Properties) — Wed, 04 Apr 2012 09:49:40 -0700

April Happenings at the Ramsey Golf & Country Club in Ramsey NJ:

April 1st - OPENING DAY of the golf course. The MTG (Men's Tournament Group), 9-hole Ladies and 18-hole Ladies golf groups are gearing up with a full schedule of fun tournaments and social gatherings.

April 8th - Easter Sunday Brunch Buffet and Easter Dinner. Click here for details.

April 13th - Men's Tournament Group Golf Dinner

April 19th - Hess Vineyards Wine Dinner- Open to the public. Enjoy an hour of passed Hors d'oeuvres followed by a 4-course tasting dinner crafted by our very own Chef Arthur Toufayan with wine pairings from Hess Vineyards. $85 + tax/gratuity per person.

April 24th, 7:30 - 9-hole ladies' casual get-together

Live music in the bar every Thursday night from 7-10pm and on Saturdays 8:30-11:30!

For more details on these and other events at the Ramsey Golf & Country Club, visit www.ramseycountryclub.com.

HOMES FOR SALE IN THE CLUB

Be a part of this special community in Ramsey NJ! These featured Ramsey Golf and Country Club homes are for sale:

38 Eton Court - Talk about location! This extraordinary 10 year old colonial is on a desirable cul-de-sac with a panoramic view of the course and lake. Two- story foyer, gourmet kitchen complete with sparkling granite and top of the line appliances and entertainment-friendly dining room that offers breathtaking views to your guests. Master BR is very large with a huge closet and knockout mahogany master bath. Wander down the 8' wide hallway to the laundry and 2 spacious bedrooms. A 4^th bedroom and 3rd bath might possibly be accommodated upstairs. Walk to town, movies, and train. Enjoy the country club restaurants, 18-hole golf, pool, and amenities. Membership req. This gem offers quality construction and location...location...location... $769,000. UNDER CONTRACT

76 Eton Court - This is the one you've been waiting for! If you're looking to find your dream home and not have to do anything but move in, well this could be it. This 3 bedroom colonial is located on one of the most sought-after cul de sacs in the Ramsey Golf and Country Club. Memb. Req. You'll notice all the charming qualities as you walk through this pristine home. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's delight with granite counter tops and double oven, and the 1st floor sunroom/office is perfect for relaxing. Plus finished basement, Living room with fireplace and built-ins. Enjoy all the amenities living in the country club, incl: 18 hole golf course, pool, platform tennis and two restaurants in the lovely clubhouse. This home is convenient to town, schools, and train or bus to NYC. $549,000. UNDER CONTACT

21 Balfour Lane - Not a drive by! Meticulously-maintained 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath Colonial on a quiet street in Ramsey boasts a renovated kitchen with granite countertops and top-of-the-line stainless steel appliances (Thermador, Subzero, Bosch), a huge Master bedroom suite with walk-in closet and gas fireplace, and a walk-out finished basement with bonus room - perfect for a guest room or office. Nothing to do but to set up your tee times and relax! Lots of room for everyone! $599,000. UNDER CONTRACT

65 Arlena - Nestled on a tranquil clubside street is this lovely 4 BR, 2.5 bath Colonial. The curb appeal alone will draw you into this inviting home. Since 2007, many improvements have been made including: 28 new windows, sliding door from sunroom to deck, water heater, some new doors, updated electric, kitchen with stainless steel appliances, powder room, laundry/mudroom, refinished floors and much more. Must see to appreciate! $669,900.

291 Nottingham - Immaculate 4BR, 2 bath home at the end of a cul-de-sac in the desirable Ramsey Golf & Country Club awaits a buyer who wishes to do nothing more than unpack! Eat-in kitchen with granite counters and maple cabinetry, formal dining room and living room with hardwood floors, 2 renovated full baths with tasteful fixtures, and a family room with fireplace and sliders to deck/yard.plus Anderson windows, newer C/A/C and roof, security system, underground sprinklers and new hot water heater. $499,000 - JUST REDUCED!

Coming soon! A 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath Colonial with huge master suite, granite kitchen, finished basement, large family room and so much more.

About the Ramsey Golf & Country Club

The Ramsey Golf & Country Club, located in Ramsey NJ is comprised of 550 homes and boasts amenities such as an 18-hole golf course, paddle tennis, a pool, and a clubhouse home to 2 restaurants, a bustling bar and a ballroom big enough to host parties of more than 200 guests.

With club membership, comes the opportunity to join golf, paddle or the pool. The golf programs offer something for every household: the most reasonably-priced packages for family, individuals, weekday only and junior in probably the entire Tri-State area. Unlimited golf on a private, 18-hole course in the middle of the neighborhood while being only 40 minutes from Manhattan is truly unique. The pool is situated on Mirror Lake and has a competitive swim team for children. The Paddle Tennis program is becoming wildly popular both from a social and competitive standpoint for players at all levels.

The Ramsey Golf and Country Club also offers a wide range of social activities encouraging camaraderie. Recent parties like Oktoberfest, Comedy Night, St. Patrick’s Day and 70s/80s have drawn up to 200 members and their friends at each event . The Club hosts free events for the children like the Holiday Party (Santa arrives on a golf cart!), Spring party (egg hunt and petting zoo!) and Halloween (complete with costume parade!). From the luminaries spectacular on Christmas Eve where every street in the club is lit with candles to gathering to watching the 4th of July fireworks on the 12th fairway, there’s always an example of this community camaraderie. Winter days draw the kids to the 14th fairway to sled or to skate on one of the four lakes. Ramsey Country Club & Golf summers are busy with swim team meets, canoeing and fishing on the lake, BBQs on the patio, golf tournaments, and the very popular Junior golf program.

Beyond the amenities, Club members also praise the unique community the Ramsey Golf & Country Club has created. Some members are second generation, having grown up in the club and deciding to return to raise their own families. Others come to the Ramsey Golf & Country Club to meet people and make friends quickly. The affordable golf packages and sporting options for the whole family make it an exceptional and unmatched opportunity in Bergen County. It is truly a "community within a community".

If you would like to learn more about the Ramsey Golf & Country Club in Ramsey New Jersey or homes for sale in Ramsey or any other towns in northwest Bergen County, please contact me, Kristin Graves, at kristingraves@remax.net or 201-825-6600 ext 222.

To stage or not to stage...

Kristin Graves (RE/MAX Properties) — Mon, 26 Mar 2012 09:27:27 -0700

We've all seen the positive effects of good staging when it comes to selling a home. All you need to do is catch a show on HGTV and see how it impacts a buyer's perception. Recently I was able to witness a transformation of a home first hand with our new listing of a 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath Colonial on a cul-de-sac in Ramsey.

The elderly owner recently passed away and her son was left as executor of the estate sale. As it turns out, her son is also a professional stager, having done work for countless print ads and catalogs like Neiman Marcus, and getting it ready for sale was a labor of love.

He had the house "detailed" by professional cleaners, emptied it out completely and had a landscaper give it a spring clean-up. He refinished the cabinets in the kitchen and installed new light fixtures and hardware and painted rooms.

The bathrooms are the original from when the house was built in 1973 but with new fixtures and bright towels, it looks as contemporary as any bathroom renovation.

He used his skills to transform a tired and dated house into a contemporary and clean dwelling using much of his mother's furniture and accenting it furnishings from Ikea and his own artwork. Throughout the home, he delicately placed fresh spring flowers to brighten the rooms.

The results were amazing. Although he spent about $7000 to get it ready to market, he has created a buzz. Buyers can picture their lives in this home and feel it is move-in ready. There's plenty of opportunities to put a buyer's special touches into the decor, expand, or to finish the basement which is walk-out and has high ceilings. The possibilities are endless but work, if the buyer so chooses to do, can be done in stages.

Even the outside was tended to. Flowers and fresh mulch add to the charm of this house which is just waiting for the next generation to call it "home".

If you would like to learn more about this beautiful home in Ramsey, which has convenient NYC train/bus service, award-winning schools and a downtown with shops and dining or other homes in Northwest Bergen County, please contact me, Kristin Graves, at kristingraves@remax.net or 201-825-6600 ext 222.

March Happenings at the Ramsey Golf & Country Club.

Kristin Graves (RE/MAX Properties) — Wed, 14 Mar 2012 11:00:12 -0700

March Happenings at the Ramsey Golf & Country Club in Ramsey NJ:

March 17th, 9pm - St. Patrick's Day! Get your green on because Mary's Basement (or for this night "Maire's Basement") will be rocking the Lakeside Grille with great music.

March 22nd, 7pm - Cooking Class with Chef Arthur! Want to know how to grill sauté or bake? Roll sushi? Cook a certain fish? Need a quick and easy dinner party dish? Join us for one of our original cooking classes with Chef Arthur who has come up with many easy to prepare delicious fish and seafood recipes. Classes are mostly demonstrations where you watch, ask questions, and eat all that we prepare. Join us for a casual evening of educational fun and good eating. Come hungry, we serve all that we cook and it's always a very fulfilling meal!

March 24th, 11-1pm - Children's Spring Party! Bring your baskets to the annual Children's Spring Party! Fun will include a petting zoo featuring bunnies, sheep and a calf, crafts, an egg hunt (Age groups: under 2, 3-5 and 6 and over) and a very special visit from everyone's favorite bunny. This popular event is FREE for members and their guests.

March 24th - Mixed Doubles Paddle Tennis Tournament!

March 31st, 12pm- Annual Shareholders Meeting in the ballroom.

April 1st - OPENING DAY of the golf course.

Be a part of this special community in Ramsey NJ! These featured Ramsey Golf and Country Club homes are for sale:

NEW LISTING! 76 Eton Court - This is the one you've been waiting for! If you're looking to find your dream home and not have to do anything but move in, well this could be it. This colonial is located on one of the most sought-after cul de sacs in the Ramsey Golf and Country Club. Memb. Req. You'll notice all the charming qualities as you walk through this pristine home. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's delight with granite counter tops and double oven, and the 1st floor sunroom/office is perfect for relaxing. Plus finished basement, Living room with fireplace and built-ins. Enjoy all the amenities living in the country club, incl: 18 hole golf course, pool, platform tennis and two restaurants in the lovely clubhouse. This home is convenient to town, schools, and train or bus to NYC. $549,000.

21 Balfour Lane - Not a drive by! Meticulously-maintained 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath Colonial on a quiet street boasts a renovated kitchen with granite countertops and top-of-the-line stainless steel appliances, a huge Master bedroom suite with walk-in closet and gas fireplace, and a walk-out finished basement with bonus room - perfect for a guest room or office. Nothing to do but to set up your tee times and relax! Lots of room for everyone!$599,000.

65 Arlena - Nestled on a tranquil clubside street is this lovely 4 BR, 2.55 bath Colonial. The curb appeal alone will draw you into this inviting home. Since 2007, many improvements have been made including: 28 new windows, sliding door from sunroom to deck, water heater, some new doors, updated electric, kitchen with stainless steel appliances, powder room, laundry/mudroom, refinished floors and much more. Must see to appreciate! $669,900.

291 Nottingham Road - Immaculate 4BR, 2 bath home at the end of a cul-de-sac in the desirable Ramsey Golf & Country Club awaits a buyer who wishes to do nothing more than unpack! Eat-in kitchen with granite counters and maple cabinetry, formal dining room and living room with hardwood floors, 2 renovated full baths with tasteful fixtures, and a family room with fireplace and sliders to deck/yard.plus Anderson windows, newer C/A/C and roof, security system, underground sprinklers and new hot water heater. $519,000

About the Ramsey Golf & Country Club

The Ramsey Golf & Country Club, located in Ramsey NJ is comprised of 550 homes and boasts amenities such as an 18-hole golf course, paddle tennis, a pool, and a clubhouse home to 2 restaurants, a bustling bar and a ballroom big enough to host parties of more than 200 guests.

The Ramsey Golf and Country Club also offers a wide range of social activities encouraging camaraderie. Recent parties like Oktoberfest, Comedy Night, St. Patrick’s Day and 70s/80s have drawn up to 200 members and their friends at each event . The Club hosts free events for the children like the Holiday Party (Santa arrives on a golf cart!), Spring party (egg hunt and petting zoo!) and Halloween (complete with costume parade!). From the luminaries spectacular on Christmas Eve where every street in the club is lit with candles to gathering to watching the 4th of July fireworks on the 12th fairway, there’s always an example of this community camaraderie. Winter days draw the kids to the 14th fairway to sled or to skate on one of the four lakes. Ramsey Country Club & Golf summers are busy with swim team meets, canoeing and fishing on the lake, BBQs on the patio, golf tournaments, and the very popular Junior golf program.

Beyond the amenities, Club members also praise the unique community the Ramsey Golf & Country Club has created. Some members are second generation, having grown up in the club and deciding to return to raise their own families. Others come to the Ramsey Golf & Country Club to meet people and make friends quickly. The affordable golf packages and sporting options for the whole family make it an exceptional and unmatched opportunity in Bergen County. It is truly a "community within a community".

If you would like to learn more about the Ramsey Golf & Country Club in Ramsey New Jersey or any other towns in northwest Bergen County, please contact me, Kristin Graves, at kristingraves@remax.net or 201-825-6600 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 201-825-6600 end_of_the_skype_highlighting ext 222.

Just Listed! 4 Bedroom Classic Center Hall Colonial in Allendale, NJ - $915,000

Kristin Graves (RE/MAX Properties) — Wed, 14 Mar 2012 10:22:38 -0700

OPEN HOUSE - Sunday, March 18th, 1pm-4pm

Situated at the end of a cul-de-sac on one of the most sought-after streets in Allendale NJ is this sensational 4 bedroom Center Hall Colonial, surrounded by lush landscaping on almost 1 acre of parklike property.

The entry foyer leads you to the formal dining room and elegant living room, both with hardwood floors and crown moldings. The eat-in kitchen is a gourmet cook’s dream with custom cabinetry, top-of-line appliances and granite countertops.

Adjacent is a mudroom/laundry room with access to the spacious 2-car garage and huge deck. A family room with fireplace and renovated powder room complete the 1^st floor. Upstairs, you’ll find the large master bedroom with a beautifully renovated bathroom with steam shower, 3 good-sized bedrooms and main bath. The walk-out basement is fully finished and perfect for a home office, kid’s play area and work-out room. Other pluses: u/g sprinklers, invisible fence, 2-zone heat and C/A/C.

Enjoy all that Allendale has to offer. Ranked as having one of the top 10 high schools in the state by New Jersey Monthly, Allendale NJ offers top-notch education with ample opportunities to excel in academics and sports. The town center offers shopping and dining ranging from burgers (Allendale Bar & Grill) to sushi (Flirt Sushi Lounge and Masa Sushi and Grille) to Italian (Mezzaluna). Crestwood Park offers recreational activities and a popular swimming lake. Allendale offers both train and bus service to NYC making for an easy commute.

There's so much to love about this home and location! Offered at $915,000

If you would like to learn more about Allendale New Jersey homes for sale or any other towns in northwest Bergen County, please contact me, Kristin Graves, at kristingraves@remax.net or 201-825-6600 x222.

Are you considered a NYC tourist if you live in the suburbs?

Kristin Graves (RE/MAX Properties) — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 12:08:20 -0800

One of the best things about living in Bergen County NJ (besides great schools) is its proximity to NYC. Be it by train, bus or car, you are never more than 50 minutes from Manhattan. This past weekend, we decided to take advantage of having the day off and being next door to the greatest city in the world and took the kids to NYC for a day to do all things "touristy".

Our challenge was to come up with an itinerary that would appeal to the 7-9 year-old set, yet not break the bank. Having lived in Manhattan for over a decade "pre-kids", I had to look at the city through their eyes. Back in the day when my adult friends would come to visit me, it was easy to lay out the plans - show, dinner, club, museums, outdoor cafe for people watching, done. With kids, we had to focus on interactivity, not too much walking and some well-timed snacks. This was our route, starting at 34th and Park.

Bryant Park - outdoor ice-skating rink behind the NY Public Library. FREE but only if you bring your own skates. Otherwise it is $14 to rent skates.

Toys R Us - what kid wouldn't like this? We started by taking a ride on the indoor ferris wheel ($4.50 per person) and then had our "Marquee Moment" by having our photo broadcasted on a billboard in Times Square ($29.99 but we were handed a coupon for $10 off when we were browsing the store). Our package included 5x7 picture of us in front of our billboard.

M&M Store - Overrated but the wall of M&Ms is pretty neat and the kids liked filling their bags with the goodies.

Rockefeller Center - No tree when we were there but we watched the skaters from the street level

Lego Store - Crowded on this particular Sunday afternoon and I'm sure every other weekend day. Seeing a Rockefeller Center replica in Lego form was a highlight. Standing in line for 15 minutes to buy a $2.99 pack of Lego figures was not.

St. Patrick's Cathedral - A sight to behold.

Snack time - Grabbed a pretzel from a cart in the street and then got on the Subway (B/D to W.4th and then get A/C to Brooklyn )

Grimaldis Pizzeria - We thought it would be great to taste the famous pizza and then walk over the bridge. However, a lot of other people had the same idea as Grimaldi's had a line 40 people long so we opted for Ignazio's around the corner that had good pizza and a great view of the bridge. Afterwards, we walked across the street to the boardwalk with unbelievable views of NYC and had some ice cream at...

Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory - only offers 8 flavors but it is the freshest and creamiest ice cream you'll have in NYC.

Brooklyn Bridge - To walk off the pizza and ice cream, we set foot on to the Brooklyn Bridge and took in even more vistas of NYC. It's a mile long so wear comfortable shoes! As you enter back into Manahattan, you can either walk to Chinatown or Little Italy or jump on the 4,5 or 6 Train to Grand Central Terminal, as we did.

Empire State Building - Our final stop. We were lucky to have a clear day and get beautiful views of the other boroughs, New Jersey and Central Park. Hard to believe $80 later, it used to be free to go to the top of the Empire State Building. Extra charges now apply if you want to go up to the 105 floor, get a map, get an audio tour or use the telescopes. There's also security much like what you have to go through at the airport (although you get to keep your shoes on). The announcement in the elevator up reminds us why there is security when it lays claim to be the highest point in NYC as we all know that there used to be two buildings that were taller.

A fun day and not one complaint of being tired - a successful outing to NYC! Looking forward to our Spring trip which may include the Museum of Natural History, Central Park, and Children's Museum of Manhattan.

If you would like to learn more about the towns in Bergen County like Ridgewood, Glen Rock, Ramsey, Wyckoff and Mahwah or are interested in homes for sale, please contact me, Kristin Graves, at kristingraves@remax.net or 201-825-6600 ext 222.

January Happenings at the Ramsey Golf & Country Club

Kristin Graves (RE/MAX Properties) — Sat, 07 Jan 2012 07:15:16 -0800

January/February Happenings at the Ramsey Golf & Country Club in Ramsey NJ:

January 29th, 7pm - Jersey Shore Party! What does the “Jersey Shore” mean to you? Is it tank tops and Bermuda shorts? Snooki and the Situation? Fake tans or real tans? Whatever “Jersey Shore” conjures up for you, come represent it at the “Jersey Shore” party. Pretend it is a July night instead of 20 degrees in January and enjoy Coronas, BBQ fare,and of course music to dance the night away and keep the winter doldrums away.

February 3rd 7:30pm- Movie Night for the Kids! A blockbuster kids movie (TBD) will be shown in the ballroom

Be a part of this special community in Ramsey NJ! These featured Ramsey Golf and Country Club homes are for sale:

About the Ramsey Golf & Country Club

The Ramsey Golf & Country Club, located in Ramsey NJ is comprised of 550 homes and boasts amenities such as an 18-hole golf course, paddle tennis, a pool, and a clubhouse home to 2 restaurants, a bustling bar and a ballroom big enough to host parties of more than 200 guests.

The Ramsey Golf and Country Club also offers a wide range of social activities encouraging camaraderie. Recent parties like Oktoberfest, Comedy Night, St. Patrick’s Day and 70s/80s have drawn up to 200 members and their friends at each event . The Club hosts free events for the children like the Holiday Party (Santa arrives on a golf cart!), Spring party (egg hunt and petting zoo!) and Halloween (complete with costume parade!). From the luminaries spectacular on Christmas Eve where every street in the club is lit with candles to gathering to watching the 4th of July fireworks on the 12th fairway, there’s always an example of this community camaraderie. Winter days draw the kids to the 14th fairway to sled or to skate on one of the four lakes. Ramsey Country Club & Golf summers are busy with swim team meets, canoeing and fishing on the lake, BBQs on the patio, golf tournaments, and the very popular Junior golf program.

December Happenings at the Ramsey Golf & Country Club

Kristin Graves (RE/MAX Properties) — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 14:36:12 -0800

December Happenings at the Ramsey Golf & Country Club in Ramsey NJ:

December 9th- Paddle Social! BYOB and an appetizer to share and enjoy a night of paddle with friends and neighbors.

December 10th- The annual Children’s Holiday Party! Arts & crafts, holiday goodies and, as always, a special visit from Santa Claus himself!

December 17th - Holiday High Tea in the Abbey. Sold out!

December 21st - Making Cookies for Santa! Chef Arthur invites all RG&CC children to help bake and bring some cookies home for Santa.

December 31st - The Black and White New Year's Eve Ball. Buffet dinner, dancing to a live band and open bar.

Be a part of this special community in Ramsey NJ! These featured Ramsey Golf and Country Club homes are for sale:

About the Ramsey Golf & Country Club

The Ramsey Golf & Country Club, located in Ramsey NJ is comprised of 550 homes and boasts amenities such as an 18-hole golf course, paddle tennis, a pool, and a clubhouse home to 2 restaurants, a bustling bar and a ballroom big enough to host parties of more than 200 guests.

New Restaurants Coming to Ramsey!

Kristin Graves (RE/MAX Properties) — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 10:18:36 -0800

New Restaurants Coming To Ramsey!

You may have noticed the highly distinctive and iconic Howard Johnson hotel has been demolished - fortunately for Ramsey and the surrounding area's residents, we're getting some really terrific new restaurants. They'll be serving the Ramsey, Allendale and Mahwah areas, and bringing some colorful new food choices to our area.

Route 17 in Ramsey is the site of new construction, including new eateries Chipolte and Sarku Japan. With new options and plentiful parking, this delicious development is sure to bring value to the area.

Chipolte Mexican Grill offers a mixture of delicious quality Mexican food at excellent prices. It will over Ramsey, Allendale and Mahwah residents Chipolte's prized "gold ingredients" which chef/CEO/founder Steve Ells touts as high quality and sustainable food sources for his menu.

Sarku Japan is the largest and most successful Japanese Quick Service operator in the United Stated, providing fresh and tasty Teriyaki and Sushi. The made-to-order cuisine uses fresh ingredients, no MSG and no trans-fats in its preparations.

The convenient Route 17 location will be a quick trip for Ramsey, Allendale and Mahwah residents - and just a short ways from the Interstate Shopping Mall. The increase of restaurant choices to our area is always a bonus.

If you would like to learn more about Ramsey or are interested in homes for sale in Ramsey, please contact me, Kristin Graves, at kristingraves@remax.net or 201-825-6600 ext 222.

November Happenings at the Ramsey Golf and Country Club

Kristin Graves (RE/MAX Properties) — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 13:46:23 -0700

November Happenings at the Ramsey Golf & Country Club:

November 5th, 9:30pm - The Knightcrawlers play the Lakeside Grille.

November 10th, 7pm - Wine Tasting and Tapas in the Abbey. Sample some new wines provided by Winebow paired with tapas appetizers created by Chef Arthur.

November 11th, 8pm - Paddle Social. Members and potential Paddle Associate Members who are interested in learning more about Paddle Tennis are invited for a wine and cheese party in the paddle hut.

November 17th - Cooking Lessons with Chef Arthur. Executive Chef Arthur Toufayan shows home cooks, the techniques and tricks behind cooking a fantastic Turkey Day dinner.The class is $15 per person and includes Chef Arthur's demonstration, light hors d'oeuvres, and pours of wine.

November 18th - Comedy Night. The Ramsey Golf and Country Club transforms into a comedy club featuring top comedic talent from the famed NYC comedy club scene and late night talk shows. (members and their guests, only)

November 23rd - Thanksgiving Eve. Bring your out of town guests to the Lakeside Grille for dinner and music provided by Steve Bloom

Join the club! These featured Ramsey Golf and Country Club homes are for sale:

21 Balfour Lane - meticulously-maintained 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath Colonial on a quiet street boasts a renovated kitchen with granite countertops and top-of-the-line stainless steel appliances, a huge Master bedroom suite with walk-in closet and gas fireplace, and a walk-out finished basement with bonus room - perfect for a guest room or office. Nothing to do but to set up your tee times and relax! $619,900 and seller will pay the $4500 initiation fee.

65 Arlena - Nestled on a tranquil clubside street is this lovely 4 BR, 2.55 bath Colonial. The curb appeal alone will draw you into this inviting home. Since 2007, many improvements have been made including: 28 new windows, sliding door from sunroom to deck, water heater, some new doors, updated electric, kitchen with stainless steel appliances, powder room, laundry/mudroom, refinished floors and much more. Must see to appreciate! $669,900.

291 Nottingham Road - Immaculate 4BR, 2 bath home at the end of a cul-de-sac in the desirable Ramsey Golf & Country Club awaits a buyer who wishes to do nothing more than unpack! Eat-in kitchen with granite counters and maple cabinetry, formal dining room and living room with hardwood floors, 2 renovated full baths with tasteful fixtures, and a family room with fireplace and sliders to deck/yard.plus Anderson windows, newer C/A/C and roof, security system, underground sprinklers and new hot water heater. $519,000

About the Ramsey Golf & Country Club

4 bedroom home for sale in Ramsey Golf & Country Club

Kristin Graves (RE/MAX Properties) — Wed, 26 Oct 2011 16:13:26 -0700

291 Nottingham Rd, Ramsey NJ

Immaculate 4 bedroom, 2 bath home at the end of a cul-de-sac in the desirable Ramsey Golf & Country Club (memb. Req.) in Ramsey NJ awaits a buyer who wishes to do nothing more than unpack!

About the Ramsey Golf & Country Club

Burger bragging turns into fundraiser for pediatric cancer

Kristin Graves (RE/MAX Properties) — Tue, 18 Oct 2011 14:42:15 -0700

This past weekend, a group of neighbors in the Ramsey Golf & Country Club hosted a burger cook-off. But it wasn’t merely just a couple of families showing off their burger recipes over a case of beer to win the bragging rights of being Ramsey Golf & Country Club’s grill master. No, this group of members took it upon themselves to make it a community event that benefited a worthy cause – the Max Cure Foundation for pediatric cancer causes – and raised more than $5000.

The Be Brave Burger Throwdown had a tough road in seeing the light of day – literally. It was originally schedule on the last day of August but Hurricane Irene had other plans. The next rain date was a wash out too. Finally, the group was gifted with a beautiful fall day and it was very well attended despite the rescheduling.

Ramsey Golf and Country club members and neighbors, Ramsey residents and family from all over the area were invited to taste the burger samples and vote for their favorites. These five families opened their homes, garages, driveways and backyards to the throngs of people who came to share in a day of good food for a good cause. A favorite local band, Mary’s Basement, entertained the crowd and kids had a ball with a bounce house, clown and hula hoop contest.

What started as a bet as to who could make the best burger in the Ramsey Golf & Country Club morphed into a successful fundraiser that doubled as a fun block party. Congratulations to these families on their successful event. They set a great example for all of us.

418 Smith Place, Ridgewood - $599,900

Kristin Graves (RE/MAX Properties) — Wed, 12 Oct 2011 13:56:40 -0700

Calling all car enthusiasts and car collectors!

Presenting 418 Smith Place, Ridgewood - $599,000.

Looking for an affordable and charming Colonial home in the top-notch town of Ridgewood, NJ that has a HUGE 3-car detached garage? If you are a car collector or love to tinker in a large workshop, this may be the house for you!

Enter this storybook colonial home for sale on the sought-after westside of Ridgewood NJ, and prepare to be impressed. Filled with charm and character and with fantastic curb appeal, its quality updates make this special home one not to be missed.

This 3 bedroom and 2 full bath Colonial boasts an updated kitchen and bath, hardwood floors, central air, new gas furnace and newly finished basement.

There’s also home office/studio that is complete with heat and A/C adjacent to the detached 3-car garage.

Located on a lovely, quiet street in the desirable Willard school district, you can enjoy all that the village of Ridgewood has to offer: convenience to NYC transportation, boutique shopping, fine dining, a first-run movie theater and, most importantly, its award-winning school system.

Interested in learning more about this home or other homes for sale in Ridgewood? Please contact me, Kristin Graves, at kristingraves@remax.net or 201-825-6600 ext 222.

More about Ridgewood

Ridgewood has been called "the commuter's secret" - whether you work in Manhattan or just feel the urge for a day trip, the ride between Ridgewood and New York is a breeze. From the train station in the center of town to Hoboken is a quick 35 minute ride and then there's a choice of trains and buses into New York City. If you'd rather bus it, a wide selection of buses - including an express to Port Authority - stop at various points around town. Super convenient!

Just five square miles, Ridgewood New Jersey provides many of the amenities that New Yorkers have long enjoyed in their neighborhoods - expansive shopping areas, a variety of restaurants for everything from a quick coffee to international fine dining, great schools as well as fun community activities for the whole family.

An extensive array of organizations and volunteer activities connect residents with each other - local government advisory boards, civic organizations, arts organizations, social service associations are among the ways to get involved and be social.

Downtown Ridgewood New Jersey is a welcome sight for any New Yorker who's grown used to a wide selection of choices in both dining and shopping. From chains to local establishment, the thriving main thoroughfare in Ridgewood has everything you can imagine.

If you would like to learn more about Ridgewood New Jersey, northwest Bergen County or would like to talk with someone who's made this transition, please contact me, Kristin Graves, at kristingraves@remax.net or 201-825-6600 ext 222.

October Happenings at the Ramsey Golf & Country Club

Kristin Graves (RE/MAX Properties) — Wed, 12 Oct 2011 12:11:00 -0700

October is shaping up to be a busy month at the Ramsey Golf & Country Club:

October 9th - The annual Championship Day took place on an absolutely picture-perfect fall day and spectators were treated to an exiciting tournament to crown the club's best golfers. Afterwards, all club members were invited back to the patio for a BBQ and award ceremony.

October 21st - Paddle Social. Members who are interested in learning more about Paddle Tennis are invited for a wine and cheese party in the paddle hut.

October 28th - Oktoberfest Party in the Ballroom. Members and their guests congregate for a night of German fare, fine German beer and live music.

October 29th - Kids Halloween Party. Ghosts and goblins, superheros and princess are invited to this free party for children in the Club. Costume parade and contest, games and crafts and of course treats for all.

Join the club! These featured Ramsey Golf and Country Club homes are for sale:

Open House Sunday October 16th, 1-4pm

38 Eton Court - This extraordinary 10-year-old Colonial has panoramic views of the course and lake. Enter the 2 story foyer which leads you to a gourmet kitchen, complete with sparkling granite and top of the line appliances so you can cook while watching the golfers pass by. Relax in the openness of the family room and kitchen. The entertainment friendly dining room offers a breathtaking view to your guests. While currently a 3 BR home, plans are underway for a 4th bedroom. Prepared to be wowed by the knockout mahogany master bath. Wander down the 8' wide hallway to the laundry and 2 spacious bedrooms. A 3rd bath might possibly be accommodated upstairs. Walk to town, movies, and train.This gem offers quality construction and location...location...location! $849,000.

About the Ramsey Golf & Country Club