Brian's Blog

Road Updates in Gloucester County

2008-04-28T14:00:21Z

If you live in Gloucester County, you know all about the 322 Bypass road work. It almost seems endless, even though we know the end result will likely be very worthwhile. In order to keep our community a desirable place to live, these types of improvements our necessary to keep up with the growing number of Gloucester County residents. Since I have been selling real estate in Gloucester County, it has been remarkable how our community has grown. As a realtor, it is a nice selling point to prospective buyers coming to look for homes in Gloucester County, when I can say we have a community that keeps up with the maintenance needed for the residents. So even though the road work can be a nuisance at times, I am thankful that it is taking place.

In addition to the 322 Bypass here is quick run down of some other repairs you will likely see this spring, summer, and fall.

Mantua, Main St. Bridge Replacement

Franklin Township, Coles Mill Rd. Bridge Replacement

Greenwich Township, Tomlin Station Rd. Bridges

West Deptford, Delaware St. Bridge Replacement

Washington Township, Fries Mill Rd & Hurffville Cross Keys Intersection

Deptford Township, Resurfacing and Signal Improvements on Almonesson Rd.

Approaching a Short Sale in Gloucester County, NJ, Some Tips for the Buyer (Part 1 of 2)

2008-04-25T11:40:28Z

A Few Tips For the Gloucester County buyer:

•· Keep in mind that short sales do not only occur because of an anticipated foreclosure. Sometimes a lender will accept a short sale if the value of the property has fallen and/or if the seller owes more than the property is worth in the current Gloucester County real estate market. So the sellers may not have defaulted on their mortgage.

•· The lender is generally only willing to accept a short sale for a property to bring the price in line with other comparable homes on the market. Not below them. So I wouldn't spend to much time going from Gloucester County property to property trying to low ball lenders. It is VERY unlikely that they will negotiate that low.

•· Negotiating with the lender can take a great deal of time. Generally the lenders have committees that need to approve the short sale and this approval process can sometimes take up to 6 weeks or more. The average is likely closer to 2 to 3 weeks. Consequently, there is little chance you will be closing on a short sale in 30 to 40 days once you present an offer. And therefore not in your new Gloucester County home too quickly! However, the savings you could potentially realize may be worth the wait!!

•· Do your research on the property before making an offer to purchase. My recommendation would be to work with a Gloucester County Realtor that would know what to look for and who could recommend a reputable real estate legal professional.

•· Be cautious of Gloucester County homes with 2 loans and know exactly what that means for you as the buyer. If you come to an agreement with a lender where 2 loans exist, make sure you know of all deadlines and expirations and that they are similar for both loans.

Have you been to the Gloucester County Store?

2008-04-18T15:52:17Z

It almost sounds like an old country store where you would expect to buy small candies and fountain soda. It is definitely not that though. In fact, it is far from that. This store is not on the corner down town, it is at the Deptford mall, and you don't buy candy there, you get passport books, id cards, and finger-printing .

Although it sounds like a funny product offering, it is actually a great idea and a great resource for us here in Gloucester County. This store has been opened in the Deptford Mall for Gloucester County residents so that we can take care of a variety of activities outside of normal town hall hours. Some of the things you will be able to do at this Gloucester County Store,

Passport Books
Passport Cards
Identification Cards
Trade Name Certificates
Notary Oaths
Veteran's Services (Including ID Cards, Vending Licenses and recording of DD-214/Honorable Discharges)
Fingerprinting age 5 and up. (1st Saturday of every month. 12a.m. - 4 p.m.)

The hours are 10 AM to 9PM Monday through Friday and 10 to 5:30 on Saturday. I would encourage you to take a look at their site and swing on by next time you are in the Deptford Mall.

Celebrate Earth Day and Our Gloucester Community 2008

2008-04-10T12:07:14Z

As a realtor, I know first hand the importance of having clean and well cared for community surroundings. It is the places in Gloucester County that really make the difference for prospective buyers when they are seeking out their next place to call home. It is also the difference for current Gloucester County residents who cherish and love the community and all that it offers.

As many of you know, Gloucester County is a melting pot of unique styles and trends. In our community you can be in a country or city setting, visit a historical or modern museum, and take part in an enormous variety of events whether it be very casual or possibly even black tie. Irregardless of what you enjoy most about Gloucester County it seems we truly do have something to please everyone. And it is all of these things, that really makes the difference for residents and prospective real estate purchasers.

So with Earth Day right around the corner, I thought it was very appropriate to share with you the details of our Gloucester County earth day celebration. I believe it is a time to celebrate the wonders of our earth and its preservation, as well as the wonders of our community and its preservation. By keeping a conscious thought on our environmental impact we can make a difference and keep our Gloucester County community the wonderful place that it is; a place that makes a difference for prospective buyers between just looking for their next house or looking for their next place to call home.

I would therefore encourage you to stop by the Washington Lake Park Amphitheater on April 19^th to celebrate Earth Day and our Gloucester County community. It will be held from 10AM to 4PM and be filled with loads of informational and fun events. There will also be a recycling spot where you can bring batteries, cell phones, eye glasses, hearing aids, printer cartridges, and spring plants (the spring plants will be replanted in Washington Lake Park). While there you can also pick up some free Norway Spruce and White Pine seedlings for use on your own property.

Gloucester County Open Houses - Brian Ziegenfuss

2008-04-04T10:22:41Z

Call For More Details, 856-981-6649

316 Kewsick Drive, Woolwich Township
Sunday April 6th 1 to 4
Largest model in Westbrook, wide open and free flowing.

Beautiful condo and a must see!!

112 Revere , Mullica Hill
Sunday April 6th 1 to 4
Wonderful Retreat that can be purchased or leased!
Two acres, inground pool, Sunroom and More!

104 Ridgeway Lane , Mullica Hill
Sunday April 6th 1 to 4
Wonderful 4 bedroom in Mullica Hill Farms!
Fenced in Yard, Garage, and Full Basement

Gloucester County Real Estate Market Update - March in Review

2008-04-04T09:48:26Z

Currently the 30 year fixed rates are averaging between 5.85% and 6%. With a high level of real estate inventory currently available there are some great opportunities out there for Gloucester County buyers. Below is a quick recap of March’s activity. Stay tuned for the 1st quarter Gloucester County recap coming soon!

If you would like to discuss how your property may fit into the current Gloucester County real estate market, give me a call, I’d love to discuss it with you and provide a full market report and complimentary market analysis of your property. With interest rates falling again it is prime time for first time home buyers and individuals wishing to buy second homes or investment properties.

Gloucester County Property Type	Units Listed	Pending Listings	Sold Listings	Average Days on Market	Average List Price	Average Sold Price
Residential	621	232	204	88	$243,005	$225,437
Lots/Land/Farm	37	1	2	94	$239,400	$245,000
Multifamily	12	3	6	55	$178,500	$163,108
Commercial	41	5	4	262	$255,400	$222,900

Gloucester County, NJ Open House - 112 Revere St, Sunday March 30th From 1 to 4

2008-03-29T11:05:07Z

Make this executive retreat your own or lease to purchase for 4400/month! This home is situated on 2 acres of wooded seclusion. The property features an inground pool, paver patio, basketball court in addition to walking trail. This home and land offers plenty of space and activities for all. Enter this domain through the dramatic two story foyer equipped with solid oak stair case and oak floors throughout. The home continues to flow into a spacious eat in kitchen with island and breakfast bar also featuring an extended sunroom overlooking secluded back yard and pool. The right side of the home has a palladium window conservatory overlooking rear yard. The master bedroom features dual walk in closets, corner soaking tub facing tree line. This home also features a full finished basement, fireplace and home study/den. Truly one of a kind and a must see! Make an appointment today!Lease to own for 4400 a month

Gloucester County Real Estate Update

2008-03-26T20:58:32Z

Well the end of the 1^st quarter is right around the corner, which generally means the Gloucester County real estate spring market should be in full force. It has been showing signs of increased activity lately and I therefore thought it may be helpful for you to see a quick recap of the January and February real estate activity for Gloucester County. How will March close out? Come back and find out, Ill be posting the March numbers at the very beginning of April and sharing with a comparison to 2007.

February 2008 In Review

Gloucester County Property Type	Units Listed	Pending Listings	Sold Listings	Average Days on Market	Average List Price	Average Sold Price
Residential	597	209	155	111	$259,119	$241,037
Lots/Land/Farm	38	4	5	102	$287,940	$256,700
Multifamily	14	7	8	75	$243,825	$227,687
Commercial	29	7	10	140	$309,120	$274,130

January 2008 In Review

Gloucester County Property Type	Units Listed	Pending Listings	Sold Listings	Average Days on Market	Average List Price	Average Sold Price
Residential	655	148	146	89	$239,404	$221,655
Lots/Land/Farm	73	5	4	41	$457,225	$281,000
Multifamily	17	5	4	90	$187,175	$169,750
Commercial	55	5	7	275	$442,814	$407,776

Gloucester County NJ Real Estate Market and Foreclosures

2008-03-23T08:01:15Z

Over the past few years national foreclosure statistics have been on the rise. Whether reading the newspaper, watching the news, or surfing the internet, the number of foreclosures and short sales continue to make headlines. These trends are evident in the Gloucester county real estate market. Although foreclosure numbers are growing at a slower pace in 2008, foreclosures are still having a strong impact on our Gloucester county real estate market. Realtytrac.com is reporting that one in every 615 New Jersey households have been involved in foreclosure filings, which is up 11.8% from February 2007.

As a prospective buyer or seller of Gloucester County real estate it's very important that you understand basic foreclosure terminology. Here's a quick list of terminology. Please feel free to contact me if you're faced with either buying or selling a Gloucester County foreclosed property. I'd love to help.

Judicial Foreclosure - Judicial foreclosures are those which require the lender to take the borrower to court in order to foreclose on the property in default.

Non-Judicial Foreclosure - Non-Judicial Foreclosures are those in which the mortgage deed contains a power of sales clause allowing lenders to foreclose on a property outside of the court system.

Foreclosure - the legal proceedings initiated by a creditor to repossess the collateral for loan that is in default.

Forbearance - forbearance is a lender's postponement of foreclosure in order to give the borrower time to catch up on late mortgage payments.

Right of Redemption - right of redemption is the right of a homeowner to avoid foreclosure by paying off the amount due the lender on the mortgage.

Foreclosure Auction - when a bank auctions a repossessed property they will typically set the starting price as the remaining balance on the mortgage loan. Many times, however, in a weak market the bank will set the starting price at a lower amount if it believes the real estate securing the loan is worth less than the loan.

REO (real estate owned) - when the remaining mortgage balance is higher than the actual home value, known as an Upside-down mortgage, the bank is unlikely to attract auction bids at this price level. A house that went through foreclosure auction and failed to attract any bids becomes property of the bank. The bank will typically try to sell it at a loss later through standard channels.

Open House Sunday, 105 Colin Powell Drive in Glassboro

2008-03-14T12:13:26Z

Brand New Construction for the First Time Buyer. Being offered for only $199,000. Don't hesitate on this one. 3 beds, 2 bath rancher. Open House will be held on March 16th from 1 to 4. Call Brian for More details.

Open House 112 Revere Drive Mullica Hill NJ

2008-03-14T12:07:24Z

Come visit this amazing retreat on Sunday March 16th from 1 to 4 PM. Being offered for only $629,000. It has 4400 square feet, 3.5 baths, pool, almost 2 acres of lands, and loads of upgrades. Call Brian for more details.

Preparing to Sell…Keep It Clean!

2008-03-02T20:30:53Z

Spring is just 17 days away!!! I am hopeful that this will mean that the Gloucester County real estate market will pick up a bit and gain some momentum for the remainder of 2008. Historically, this is the time of year where we see more buyers out looking at properties than any other season. I therefore always urge prospective Gloucester County sellers to take advantage of the winter season and prepare their property so that it is in tip top shape for the surge. Due to the high inventory levels available to Gloucester County buyers, the condition of your property is more important than ever. It needs to be clean and clutter free to stay on the top of any buyer's list and stand out from all the homes currently available on the market. Few things deter buyers more than a dirty and cluttered property.

Fortunately the Gloucester County Community is offering a great clean up and recycling day. If you have old oil based paints, motor oil, antifreeze, batteries, solvents, pesticides, mercury bulbs, or any other similar materials that are not safe for disposal in your regular household trash then you can get rid of them on March 8^th. You can clean out your basements and garages that day by brining these wastes and recyclables to the Gloucester County Solid Waste Complex in South Harrison Township. You can take a look at the Gloucester County site for more information.

407 Peacock - Paulsboro, NJ

2008-02-29T09:56:27Z

Step into this spacious beauty and relax and unwind in the comfort of your own home. This home has 3 bedrooms 2 baths equiped with skylights and upgraded trim package. The kitchen features modern appliances and plenty of cabinet space. Won't last long!!! Central AC in this manufactured home with main floor laundry. New price at $119,900. Great deal, give me a call today. 856-415-1210

Great New Construction at a Great New Price in Glassboro

2008-02-13T09:50:07Z

NEW CONSTRUCTION AT A NEW PRICE!!! Great place to start or downsize. Brand new rancher with secluded back yard! This lovely home features 3 bedrooms and 2 baths. The kitchen is eat-in with state of the art appliances for convenience. This spacious beauty also has a formal dining room. Relax and enjoy in the large great room! Lowest priced new home in Glassboro. Motivated!!! Please call for more details. 856-415-1210.

One of a Kind Property in Waterford Works, NJ

2008-02-09T22:17:18Z

This home has it all, including, dual fireplaces, 4in plank Hardwood, Marble Foyer, and Full finished basement with den or fourth bdr. Relax and unwind in the step down fmly room with corner fireplace that backs up to the wooded back yard creating seclusion and prvcy. The bedrooms are large and the main bath includes marble flooring, granite tops, corner soaking Jacuzzi with granite tops and surround. This home is more than impressive with its cathedral ceilings and exposed beams equipped with ceiling fans and remote control sky lights and more. All this on a great street in a quiet location. Don't delay schedule your showing today. You won't be disappointed. 3 bedrooms, 2 car garage, almost half acre.

Great New Construction at Great Price in Swedesboro

2008-02-09T22:09:07Z

This executive home boasts 4000 plus sq ft. of luxurious living space. It is situated on 2.78 acre secluded tree lined lot with 3-car side entry garage. The rooms are more than spacious making it comfortable for all. This home has dramatic two story ceilings and a cathedral foyer. The Stucco and Stacked Stone front will add distinction and prestige. On the inside the kitchen is all high efficiency appliances with upgraded cabinets. This home has a large full size basement with day light windows for rec room home theater and more. The master Suite has a grand corner soaking tub making relaxing an ease. Don’t miss Out! Picture not actual house. Being offered for $469,900. Please call Brian Ziegenfuss for more information, 856-415-1210.

Gloucester County Market Update – January in Review

2008-02-04T13:07:28Z

There has been a great deal of Real Estate talk here in Gloucester County, NJ with interest rates falling to a 2 year low. Currently the 30 year fixed rates are averaging between 5.4% and 5.7%. With a high level of inventory currently available there are some great opportunities out there for Gloucester County first time home buyers and individuals wishing to buy second homes or investment properties. Below is a quick recap of January’s activity. If you would like to discuss how your property may fit into the current Gloucester County market, give me a call, I’d love to discuss it with you and provide a full market report and complimentary market analysis of your property.

Gloucester County Property Type	Units Listed	Pending Listings	Sold Listings	Average Days on Market	Average List Price	Average Sold Price
Residential	655	148	146	89	$239,404	$221,655
Lots/Land/Farm	73	5	4	41	$457,225	$281,000
Multifamily	17	5	4	90	$187,175	$169,750
Commercial	55	5	7	275	$442,814	$407,776

Short Sales – Growing in the Gloucester County Real Estate Market

2008-01-25T16:28:12Z

I wanted to do a quick write up on short sales, as it seems they are everywhere these days in the real estate headlines. Short sales are on the rise due to the high number of foreclosures that we are seeing here in Gloucester County, as well as around the country. A short sale occurs in real estate when the outstanding debt against the property is higher than what the property can be sold for within current Gloucester County market conditions. Home owners can negotiate with their lenders to settle on a lower amount for payoff in an attempt to avoid foreclosure. There are some important things that sellers should be aware of prior to attempting to negotiate a short sale with their lender.

1) The market value of your property - This can be provided by a local Gloucester County real estate agent.

2) The costs associated with selling the property, such as closing costs and fees.

3) The exact amount owed against the property.

4) You should also stay in communication with your lender and provide them with status updates on a regular basis. This may help keep you out of foreclosure for a longer period of time.

5) Obtain all the short sale procedures from your lender and share them with your Gloucester County local real estate agent. When you contract with a real estate agent, they will have the time and expertise to assist you through the short sale process.

6) Contact your accountant so you fully understand the ramifications on your income, taxes, and credit.

If you would like to learn more about short sales and the value of your home, please give me call. I will gladly offer a free, no obligation consultation.

Gloucester County - Curious About Your Home Value?

2008-01-11T08:31:07Z

Over that last couple of months I have run into many people that are interested in selling or buying real estate here in Gloucester County, but are a bit scared off by all the doom and gloom presented in real estate headlines. My suggestion to everyone that has considered either buying or selling is to obtain a market snapshot of the specific Gloucester County area of interest. I can provide this free snapshot to you and it will include real time local Gloucester County market conditions. Please look at my market snapshot site by clicking on the link below to obtain your free real estate market report. Get Free Home Value Report

Great Restaurants Close to Gloucester County

2008-01-11T08:07:48Z

One of the many great things about being a Gloucester County homeowner is our proximity to Philadelphia. The career and educational opportunities, as well as the ease of traveling are obvious when you live this close to such an amazing city. The thing that is sometimes overlooked is the INCREDIBLE dining opportunities that exist! A city guide was recently published for all the hot restaurants in many cities across the country. Philadelphia was featured and some of my favorite restaurants were included in the list. The two with the highest ratings were the Fountain Restaurant and La Bec-Fin; the full list can be viewed on the city guide. I would also like you to keep in mind that all the benefits that come from living so close to this great city are also protecting the value of your Gloucester County real estate investment. For any real estate assistance or on which restaurant to pick from the list, please feel free to give me a call!

A Gloucester County New Year's Eve

2007-12-30T12:36:11Z

I love living here in Gloucester County!!! You can almost always find something great to do and New Year's Eve is no exception. That is one of the many reasons that I believe Gloucester County is a great place to live and purchase a real estate investment. I am so fortunate to be selling real estate in such an amazing place. I started to browse on-line to finalize my New Year's Eve plans and couldn't believe how much there was available to do on Monday to ring in 2008. Whether you want to be indoors or outdoors; there is something for everyone! If you go to the Gloucester County Times site, they put together a great article called "First Night Delights." It details a variety of entertainment spots in the Gloucester County area that are great for the whole family. The Haddonfield First Night Celebration looks like it is going to be fantastic this year, with a large venue and some great performers scheduled. Maybe I will see you there!!

Have a Safe and Happy New Year!!

Happy Holiday!!

2007-12-22T23:50:30Z

It is likely that everyone is busily running around finishing up their last minute holiday items in preparation of the great gatherings with family and friends. I know that I am. I did however want to take a quick moment to say Happy Holidays!! My Warmest Wishest to you and yours!

Gloucester County - 322-Bypass

2007-12-22T23:40:01Z

As a realtor here in Gloucester County, I am extremely interested in the details of the 322 By-Pass and the effects that it will have on the community. I am often asked questions by prospective Gloucester County home buyers, especially those interested in Mullica Hill, about the traffic and the upcoming construction plans. Anyone who knows and/or lives in Gloucester County is familiar with the intense west-east traffic. I therefore thought it would be helpful to share information about the 322 By-Pass. I am putting some of the things that I know about the project here on my blog. I would also encourage everyone that has additional information or any comments on the project to send me an e-mail at ziggy@ziggysellshomes.com so that I include them here on the NJ Home Price blog. I will then be able to share your comments and knowledge with other Gloucester county residents or prospective home buyers that may be interested.

It is not uncommon for the traffic to back up more than a mile at a time in downtown Mullica Hill. Therefore the idea of the 322 By-Pass is to decrease this congestion and the back up wait time by 2 to 5 minutes over the next several years. A study done by the US Census bureau shows that the population in Gloucester County will likely increase by 35% by the year 2035. With this type of increase in population it is imperative that something be done about the congestion. Some areas that will be addressed are the curve east of I-295 and several bottlenecks in Mullica Hill and Richwood. The idea is to reroute a portion of the traffic, while still providing the Gloucester County drivers the choice to utilize 322.

The Gloucester County Community

2007-12-11T08:44:07Z

I am a realtor that not only loves selling homes in the Gloucester County area, but also loves living here. I therefore am always looking for great places and events that bring out the best of our community, especially at the holidays. That is why I always look forward to the Christmas at the Lighthouse event in Paulsboro. This event is not only fun and festive, but it is also a great place for prospective home buyers to get a peak into what the Gloucester community has to offer You can come and learn about some of Gloucester's history as well as get a true sense of the Gloucester community spirit On December 14^th from 5 to 8 PM an open house will be held at the lighthouse. The 28^th Pennsylvania Regimental Bass Band will also be there.

So all you prospective buyers out there interested in Gloucester County, grab your winter coat, hat, and gloves and come by the Tinicum Rear Range Lighthouse. You will see just how great of community we have here in Gloucester. Plus, if you drive by any interesting homes for sale on your way to the event, just give me a call and I can provide you with many details about the property. Happy Holidays and Gloucester County Home Hunting!!!