Dawn Marie's Blog

Thanksgiving Blessings

Dawn Marie White, Broker-Office Manager (Crossroads Realty Inc ) — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 15:51:50 -0600

For each new morning with its light,
For rest and shelter of the night,
For health and food, for love and friends,
For everything Thy goodness sends.
~Ralph Waldo Emerson

For flowers that bloom about our feet;
For tender grass, so fresh, so sweet;
For song of bird, and hum of bee;
For all things fair we hear or see,
Father in heaven, we thank Thee!
~Ralph Waldo Emerson

Let us remember that, as much has been given us, much will be expected from us, and that true homage comes from the heart as well as from the lips, and shows itself in deeds. ~Theodore Roosevelt

Dear Lord; we beg but one boon more:
Peace in the hearts of all men living,
peace in the whole world this Thanksgiving.
~Joseph Auslander

Monmouth Ocean County Food Bank Holiday Drive Successful

Dawn Marie White, Broker-Office Manager (Crossroads Realty Inc ) — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 16:45:03 -0600

Crossroads Realty's Wall & Manchester Office sponsored a food drive at the Shop Rite on Route 34 in Wall Township today.

With great pride we were able to deliver just under 800lbs of canned food and turkeys along with $125.00 cash donation to the Monmouth Ocean County Food Bank.

This is the 6th Year that Crossroads Realty has participated in this food Drive.

I want to thank all of the people who opened their hearts to Monmouth and Ocean County families in need of assistance this year. I would also like to thank all the agents and staff who participated on behalf of Crossroads Realty we had a great day and volunteered our time to a wonderful cause.

The FoodBank began in 1984 when three people saw hunger at the Jersey shore and decided to make a difference. They purchased a small, dilapidated warehouse in Spring Lake. Carpenters, masons and other members of the community donated work, office furniture and supplies. Food streamed in from hundreds of donors. After one year, the FoodBank was serving 25 charities with 100,000 pounds of food.

Ten years later, nearly two million pounds of food was being distributed annually from the same small warehouse. Bursting at the seams, the FoodBank undertook a capital campaign in 1998 to construct a new facility in Neptune. Three years later, the current 40,000 sq. ft facility became a reality.

Today, the FoodBank serves over 270 pantries, soup kitchens and other feeding programs with over 5 million pounds of food annually. The FoodBank also operates a Culinary Training Program for people in need of better-paid jobs, a Kids Café and Backpack program for children, a Mobile Pantry, and Food Stamp Outreach Program. With the help of roughly 1,000 volunteers each year, the FoodBank's programs are truly a community effort, working to eliminate hunger by providing emergency food, skills training, outreach programs and advocacy for families in need.

Happy Holidays,

Dawn Marie White

Broker-Manager

Crossroads Realty Inc

732-657-1300 x 204

732-581-9414 Cell-Text

www.njwaterfront.com

www.crossroadsrealtynj.com

NJAR STATEMENT REGARDING 3rd QUARTER 2009 HOME SALES REPORT

Dawn Marie White, Broker-Office Manager (Crossroads Realty Inc ) — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 20:08:56 -0600

For Immediate Release:
November 10, 2009

NJAR^® RELEASES STATEMENT REGARDING 3rd QUARTER HOME SALES REPORT

(Edison, NJ) Reacting to the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS^®' (NAR) 2009 Third Quarter Metro Home Prices/State Resales report, New Jersey Association of REALTORS^® (NJAR^®) Executive Vice President Jarrod C. Grasso, RCE, today issued the following statement:

"The real estate climate in New Jersey is heading toward stabilization. Existing home sales in the state rose 8.5 percent in the third quarter of 2009, compared to the third quarter of 2008. This pace outperformed the national rate of resales, which is up only 5.9 percent when comparing the third quarter of 2009 to that of 2008. This is also the second consecutive quarter-over-quarter increase in New Jersey this year.

"The jump in third quarter activity in New Jersey as a whole can largely be attributed to the summer and early-fall rush of first-time home buyers aiming to close in time to obtain the $8,000 tax credit. Thankfully, President Obama's approval of an extension of the tax credit will allow those purchasers extra time to close on their first home since the expiration is now extended until April 30, 2010. The legislation also expanded the tax credit to offer $6,500 to repeat buyers. These incentives, paired with the passage of increased loan limits from the Federal Housing Administration (FHA), Freddie Mac, and Fannie Mae available through December 31, 2010, make for a prime opportunity for various buyers in this market.

"New Jersey's eight metropolitan statistical areas (MSA) are becoming more affordable and attainable for those buyers looking to make the Garden State their home. Median prices of existing single family homes have declined yearly when comparing the third quarter 2009 to 2008. However, each of the state's MSAs has shown a quarter-over-quarter increase in sales price. This demonstrates that the federal stimulus incentives are showing promise by bringing more first-time and repeat buyers into the arena, thus fueling competition in the marketplace."

# # #

The New Jersey Association of REALTORS^® is a non-profit organization serving the professional needs of approximately 50,000 REALTOR^® and REALTOR-ASSOCIATE^® members in the state. REALTOR^® is a registered collective membership mark which may be used only by real estate professionals who subscribe to the REALTOR^® organization's strict Code of Ethics and are members of the national, state and local REALTOR^® organizations. For more information, please visit www.njar.com.

Dawn Marie White Broker-Manager-e-pro

Sales & Marketing Professional

Crossroads Realty Inc

732-657-1300 x202

www.njwaterfront.com

www.crossroadsrealtynj.com

Why our economy Looks like it does.

Dawn Marie White, Broker-Office Manager (Crossroads Realty Inc ) — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 19:46:34 -0600

Here is a video that expalins the events that led to our economic downturn.

The Glass-Steagall Act (alternatively known as Gramm Leach Bliley), repeal allowed banks to merge with insurance companies and investment houses. Understand that when deregulation occured the government stepped out of watching the biggies and everyone jumped on the band wagon. Edward Kane, a finance professor at Boston College, warned that "nobody would be able to discipline a Citigroup" once the legislation passed, because the banks would be too big and the issues too complex.He was not the only one who was right. Check out this 7 minute video.

Dawn Marie White

Broker-Manager-e-pro

Crossroads Realty Inc

732-581-9414 Cell/Text

732-657-1300 Office

www.njwaterfront.com

www.crossroadsrealtynj.com

We Sell More Homes In Our Market Place Than Any Other Real Estate Company

Crossroads Realty Joins With Kevins Kids

Dawn Marie White, Broker-Office Manager (Crossroads Realty Inc ) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 22:13:28 -0600

Kevin's Kids Holiday Drive

November 10, 2009

Crossroads Realty is proud to help Kevin Berger of Kevin's Kids Holiday drive for our 8th year!

Through the generosity of the Manchester community and the volunteer efforts of the Manchester Township School District staff, the drive provides toys, clothing, and food to children in the Manchester/Lakehurst area that are not so fortunate. There is no gift to big or to small. Checks are also accepted and will directly be used to buy food, clothes, and toys.

Last year Crossroads Realty was able to collect a record number of gifts in one of the worst economic years we have seen in a while. We hope to match, if not beat, that record this year!

"It was wonderful last year. The amount of items and money that was donated during such hard times for everyone one of us was overwhelming. Thank you everyone for you heart felt concern for these children of all ages, that are less fortunate."- Linda Adamson of Crossroads Realty

This drive began rather innocently almost 30 years ago.

"Mrs. Kathy Magee, a first grade teacher, was talking to her excited students just before the Christmas holidays," said founder Kevin Burger. "Each of the children was responding to Mrs. Magee's question, ‘What is Santa Claus going to bring you for Christmas?' After listening to each child's wish list, one little boy responded that ‘Santa Claus never comes to my house.' As Mrs. Magee fought back her tears, a drive began to make sure Santa visited that boy as well as the home of every child."

"The innocent words of that young boy remind us all that there are so many people in need," said Burger. "This year's economic times appear to be even more difficult. Whether it's increased gasoline prices or a rise in winter heating costs, too many parents have already told me that there just won't be a Christmas this year. We hear so many sad stories of people in need that I just hope we can help them all. Last year one little girl only wanted a new pair of sneakers. Since she had never had her very own pair, only having hand me downs that didn't fit, her mother didn't know her shoe size. The teachers decided to play a game with her by tracing her feet on paper. They then took the cut out model to the store to match the exact size."

"I am proud to be a part of this wonderful holiday drive for Kids" said Dawn Marie White Manager of the Manchester Office, In times of hardship Americans are known to come together and support one another. Children do not understand that mom and dad may not be able to pay the mortgage next month if santa claus brings Christmas presents.This holiday drive helps those who are less fortunate by taking a bit of the burden away from struggling families.This is the perfect opportunity for us to come together and make this holiday season a special one for all.

Crossroads Realty is proud to be an official drop off location for Kevin's Kids.

Donations can be new clothing, dry, or canned food, toys, books, games. All items, unwrapped, can be placed in the boxes that are located in our Whiting, Manchester, and West Dover Offices.

Manchester Office

2002 Route 70
_{(At the corner of Rt70 & 571)}Manchester Township, NJ

Toms River West Office

168 Route 37 West
_{(Just west of Community Medical)}
Toms River, NJ

Whiting Office

480 Route 530
_{(Just west of Schoolhouse Road)}
Whiting, NJ

Checks can be made out to Manchester Township Middle Schoolwith "Kevin's Kids" written in the memo section and dropped off at any of the Crossroads Realty offices listed above. Checks can also be mailed to: Kevin's Kids c/o Manchester Middle School, 2861 Ridgeway Rd., Manchester, NJ 08759. Donations go directly to buy food, new toys and clothing for every child identified on the list.

Tax Credit Extension Signed Includes Unemployment Benefit Extension

Dawn Marie White, Broker-Office Manager (Crossroads Realty Inc ) — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 08:50:10 -0600

Obama signs bill assisting home buyers and Americans out of work.

President Barack Obama signed a $24 billion economic stimulus bill into law Friday, giving tax incentives to prospective home buyers and additional jobless benefits to those idled by the business slump.

The White House said the law, which also includes tax cuts for struggling businesses, builds on provisions in the $787 billion stimulus package enacted last February to avert an economic meltdown.

Friday the government reported the jobless rate hit 10.2 percent last month, the highest since 1983.

Obama called it a "sobering number that underscores the economic challenges that lie ahead" and vowed that he will not rest until all Americans who want work can find work.

"The law provides another 14 weeks of benefits to all out-of-work people who have exhausted their benefits or will do so by the end of the year, estimated at nearly 2 million. Those in states where the jobless rate is 8.5 percent or above get an additional six weeks.

The Labor Department reported Friday that that employers shed another 190,000 jobs in October. Obama said job creation traditionally lags behind economic growth, but he acknowledged that is small comfort to those seeking work.

"So although it will take time and it will take patience, I am confident that our economy will recover," Obama said. "I'm confident that we're moving in the right direction. And I promise that I won't rest until America prospers once again."

The tax credits will be available through next June as long as the buyer signs a binding contract by the end of April.

The program is expanded to include a $6,500 credit for existing homeowners who buy a new place after living in their current residence for at least five years.

Call a professional for additional details..

Dawn Marie White

Broker-Manager e-pro

Sales & Marketing Professional

Crossroads Realty Inc

732-581-9414 Cell 732-657-1300 Office

dawnmariewhite@gmail.com

www.njwaterfront.com

www.crossroadsrealtynj.com

WE SELL MORE HOMES IN OUR MARKET PLACE THAN ANY OTHER REALTOR

Brick Oceanfront Deal Of The Century

Dawn Marie White, Broker-Office Manager (Crossroads Realty Inc ) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 20:58:44 -0600

Do you know someone who can afford this type of lifestyle? If you do now is the time to tell them to take a look. http://107lyndhurst.blogspot.com/ This Beachfront Haven is Located on a wonderful private lane in Brick's South Mantoloking area. The builders must sacrifice this beautiful Oceanfront home and want all reasonable offers known. Call Dawn Marie White for additional details or stop by the open house on Sunday and experience living on the Jersey Shore..

Tax Credit? What are they are proposing?

Dawn Marie White, Broker-Office Manager (Crossroads Realty Inc ) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 20:47:39 -0600

Originally, there was a lot of speculation that there would be no tax credit extension. That caused some uyers to stop looking (especially in regions where closings take longer).

If the housing bill is signed as proposed this is what we would be getting..

Income levels will be raised to $125,000 for a single and $225,000 for married couples.

These buyers did not qualify for the original tax credit and therefore will benefit more people.

This could be the answer for the second tier homes over 400,000 - 600,000 whose sales have remained stagnant.

The Move up buyer may also have 6,500$ good reasons to make the move as well.

Many of the sales over the last 6 months were foreclosed properties which did not create move-up buyers. Now, more non-distressed properties will sell.

The Future

1. Interest rates are at historic lows.

However, the Fed has announced it will pull back on the purchase of mortgage-backed-securities in March. Experts believe that will drive interest rates to over 6 percent.

2. Tax Credits if you buy now.

The tax credit will expire the first half of 2010. (the house must be in contract by April 30th.)

3. Selection is fabulous now.

Howeveer as more buyers take advantage of this tax credit opportunity the less homes there will be to choose from.

For additional information call me.

Best Regards,

Dawn Marie White Broker-Manager-e-pro

Marketing & Sales Professional

Crossroads Realty Inc

732-581-9414 Cell

732-657-1300 Office

dawnmariewhite@gmail.com

www.njwaterfront.com

www.crossroadsrealtynj.com

"Your Best Source For Homes at the Jersey Shore"

Monmouth County Closed Sales 01-01-2009 - 09/30-2009

Dawn Marie White, Broker-Office Manager (Crossroads Realty Inc ) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 23:10:23 -0500

The New Jersey Real Estate market is on it's way to recovery. Counties like Passic, Bergen, Morris, Somerset, Union, Middlesex and Mercer are currently recovering quicker than Monmouth. These counties have inventory of 5 and 6 months indicating a reduced supply which will stabilize prices. Experts are still predicting that New Jerseys housing prices will not reach 2004-05 levels again until 2016

Current unsold inventory in Monmouth County

Total Market 10 Months

400K and under 8 Months

400K to 599K 10 Months

600K to 1M 16 Months

1M to 2.5 M 20 Months

2.5 M 77 Months

A stable non declining real estate market is indicated by a 5 to 6 month inventory supply.

Statistics provoded through the Monmouth Ocean MLS

Township HIG HIGHLANDS	Units Sold 145	Total $ Sales 16,542,339	Average Sales Price $114,085	Med Sale Price $16,800
HOL HOLMDEL	143	$64,900,669	$453,850	$385,000
HOW HOWELL	455	$109,835,509	$241,396	$243,500
INT INTERLAKEN	11	$5,467,550	$497,050	$530,000
KEA KEANSBURG	109	$9,604,780	$88,117	$60,000
KEY KEYPORT	84	$11,847,406	$141,040	$152,500
LAK LAKE COMO	42	$5,058,000	$120,428	$12,850
LIT LITTLE SILVER	66	$27,016,728	$409,344	$435,000
LOC LOCH ARBOUR VILLAGE	5	$2,859,000	$571,800	$327,000
LON LONG BRANCH	323	$56,937,966	$176,278	$31,200
MAN MANALAPAN	424	$123,624,289	$291,566	$293,500
MAQ MANASQUAN	72	$30,038,457	$417,200	$408,500
MAR MARLBORO	345	$134,662,146	$390,325	$385,000
MAT MATAWAN	83	$17,519,654	$211,080	$250,000
MID MIDDLETOWN	527	$153,370,847	$291,026	$293,900
MIL MILLSTONE(MON)	57	$26,144,976	$458,683	$510,000
MON MONMOUTH BEACH	109	$27,513,187	$252,414	$28,800
NEP NEPTUNE CITY	35	$5,638,995	$161,114	$215,000
NPT NEPTUNE TWP	231	$62,860,190	$272,122	$252,500
OCE OCEAN(MON)	218	$56,367,506	$258,566	$280,450
OCP OCEANPORT	42	$11,339,900	$269,997	$270,000
RED RED BANK	179	$24,112,910	$134,708	$24,000
ROO ROOSEVELT	6	$1,203,425	$200,570	$187,500
RUM RUMSON	94	$60,547,800	$644,125	$487,500
SEA SEA BRIGHT	95	$14,847,234	$156,286	$18,000
SEG SEA GIRT	54	$28,467,582	$527,177	$33,750
SHB SHREWSBURY BORO	41	$12,393,000	$302,268	$349,000
SHR SHREWSBURY TWP	10	$855,900	$85,590	$99,500
SPH SPRING LK HEIGHTS	65	$11,916,359	$183,328	$19,000
SPR SPRING LAKE	103	$64,052,269	$621,866	$31,800
TIN TINTON FALLS	212	$49,280,290	$232,454	$256,500
UNI UNION BEACH	61	$12,435,585	$203,862	$230,000
UPF UPPER FREEHOLD	31	$13,021,000	$420,032	$415,000
WAL WALL	216	$65,915,449	$305,164	$319,750
WLB WEST LONG BRANCH	68	$12,113,250	$178,136	$28,475

Broker-Regional Manager

Sales & Marketing Professional

732-657-1300 Office dawnmariewhite@gmail.com

732-581-9414 Cell www.njwaterfront.com

Ocean County Closed Sales 2009 01-01-2009 ~09/30/2009

Dawn Marie White, Broker-Office Manager (Crossroads Realty Inc ) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 22:39:46 -0500

Ocean County closed sales 01/01/2009 through 09/30/2009

According to industry experts as of September 2009 the following months of inventory remain unsold.

Total Ocean County Market 10 months

400K or less 8 months

400K-599K 19 Months

600K to 1 Million 20 Months

1m to 2.5m 24 Months

2.5 Million 44 Months

A normal real estate market is reflected when we have a 5 to 6 month supply of inventory.

Monmouth Ocean MLS (Closed sales the first 3 quarters of 2009)

Township BAR BARNEGAT	Transactions 177	Total Dollar Volume $37,128,205	Average Sale Price $209,763	Medium Sale Price $217,000
BAY BAY HEAD	18	$8,730,100	$485,005	$161,400
BEA BEACH HAVEN	4	$4,632,000	$1,158,000	$972,500
BER BERKELEY	647	$96,893,758	$149,758	$125,000
BEW BEACHWOOD	65	$14,328,350	$220,436	$230,000
BRK BRICK	785	$178,593,378	$227,507	$200,000
EAG EAGLESWOOD	7	$1,008,300	$144,042	$120,000
HAR HARVEY CEDARS	1	$1,700,000	$1,700,000	$1,700,000
ISL ISLAND HEIGHTS	10	$2,414,250	$241,425	$193,500
JAC JACKSON	448	$114,240,144	$255,000	$260,000
LAC LACEY	312	$68,615,945	$219,922	$225,000
LAV LAVALLETTE BORO	30	$25,787,150	$859,571	$757,250
LEH LITTLE EGG HARBOR	83	$15,730,535	$189,524	$195,000
LKH LAKEHURST	15	$1,328,510	$88,567	$14,400
LKW LAKEWOOD	440	$80,483,386	$182,916	$165,000
LNG LONG BEACH	4	$2,703,000	$675,750	$711,500
MAC MANCHESTER	565	$65,456,085	$115,851	$89,000
MAK MANTOLOKING	13	$25,919,533	$1,993,810	$2,225,000
OCG OCEAN GATE	31	$4,688,234	$151,233	$151,000
OCN OCEAN(OCN)	92	$17,183,405	$186,776	$191,450
PIN PINE BEACH	14	$4,083,700	$291,692	$247,450
PLU PLUMSTED	43	$7,425,775	$172,692	$220,000
PPB POINT PLEASANT BEACH	88	$30,241,302	$343,651	$350,000
PTP POINT PLEASANT	196	$59,599,187	$304,077	$289,500
SEH SEASIDE HEIGHTS	42	$11,172,160	$266,003	$231,500
SEP SEASIDE PARK	20	$10,293,000	$514,650	$430,000
SHI SHIP BOTTOM	5	$2,632,500	$526,500	$525,000
STA STAFFORD	219	$55,632,727	$254,030	$254,900
STO SOUTH TOMS RIVER	28	$4,202,350	$150,083	$181,000
SUR SURF CITY	5	$1,552,550	$310,510	$450,000
TOM TOMS RIVER TWP	899	$237,114,594	$263,753	$246,000
TUC TUCKERTON	17	$2,526,425	$148,613	$150,000
TOTALS	5323	$1,194,040,538	$224,317	$200,000

Broker-Manager Sales & Marketing Professional

Office 732-657-1300 dawnmariewhite@gmail.com

Cell 732-581-9414 www.njwaterfront.com

15 New Jersey jobs are created for every house built or sold.

Dawn Marie White, Broker-Office Manager (Crossroads Realty Inc ) — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 20:34:52 -0500

Today, Congressman Leonard Lance (NJ‐07) joined officials from the New Jersey Association of REALTORS® (NJAR®) in support of extending the popular home buyer tax credit through 2010 and expanding it to all New Jersey home buyers. The current tax credit is expected to expire Nov. 30, 2009.

NJAR President Diane Dilzell. Said "The extension and expansion of the home buyer tax credit is crucial to continue strengthening the housing market, our state and national economies.

"It is estimated that in New Jersey more than 45,700 first‐time buyers have taken advantage of the current tax credit which expires next month," Lance said. "Extending and expanding the tax credit could continue to boost home sales statewide while reducing inventory at all levels of New Jersey's housing market."

Lance introduced a bill earlier in the month that applies to all primary residence purchases, not second homes or investment properties. Additionally, under his bill homeowners who fail to remain in the home for at least three years must return the tax credit in full.

Given that fact that 15 jobs are created for every house built or sold, expanding and extending the home buyer tax credit is just the type of economic stimulus our government should be investing in.

Lance pointed out that his bill is fiscally responsible because it calls for the use of unspent federal stimulus funding to cover the costs of the legislation. E-mail your congressman,,,,,,

Dawn Marie White Broker-Manager

Crossroads Realty Inc

732-581-9414 Direct 732-657-1300 Office

Ocean County Current Absorption Rate

Dawn Marie White, Broker-Office Manager (Crossroads Realty Inc ) — Sun, 11 Oct 2009 22:43:02 -0500

Did you know...?

You're probably well aware of your cholesterol ratio, your blood sugar level and your heart rate-but do you understand the significance of your local "absorption rate"?

In real estate, "absorption rate" (AR) is the supply/demand ratio that estimates the length of time it takes to sell a home in a given area (5 to 6 months in a stable market).

According to the Monmouth/Ocean MLS As of 10/1/09, 4111 homes were on the market in Ocean County, and the sale of 349 homes in September brought the current Absorption Rate to 11.7 months. (Reliable appraisers predict that homes will continue depreciating at approx. 1/2% per month until the AR reaches 5 - 6 months.)

The outlook is improving, though, as the Monmouth/Ocean MLS reported that 811 homes went "under contract" in September. If they all closed in October, and no other homes entered the market, there might be a plus-5 month inventory for November which would be a great improvement, but in my opinion, we will likely fall short of that goal.

Absorption rate can be broken down specifically for the township or neighborhood in which you reside. Giving you an informed edge when pricing your home. This data is also very useful to a buyer. A good buyers agent can guide as to weather a specific neighborhood is selling better than another providing a true and full picture of local activity.

The Ocean County market is moving toward full recovery, but the road may be long and hard if inventory and prices remain high. If you decide to sell your house, price it wisely by consulting your Realtor® about the number of homes available in your community.

Have a safe and happy Halloween,

Dawn Marie White, Broker/Office Manager

Crossroads Realty Inc

Manchester Quick Chek

Dawn Marie White, Broker-Office Manager (Crossroads Realty Inc ) — Sun, 11 Oct 2009 22:13:02 -0500

Tree clearing is already underway for the new Quick Chek that's about to be built at Routes 70 & 571! Marianne Borthwick, planning board secretary, said "Manchester Township is working closely with Quick Chek so they can meet their desired deadlines." To speed progress, the township permitted tree clearing in advance of satisfying resolution compliance items and the finalizing of access driveway details with the approved, adjoining strip center. The board engineer, Mr. Vodakis of T&M Associates, is working with Quick Chek and the adjacent property owners to ensure safe traffic access across both properties. James Vaccaro, the planning board president, said "Quick Chek is anxious to have this location open and has set a target for completion for the end of November." By offering local consumers a six-pump gas station and daily fresh food and coffee in a pleasant, landscaped site, Quick Chek will bring both beauty and welcome convenience to the area.

Dawn Marie White

Broker/Office Manager

Crossroads Realty,

2002 Route 70, Manchester,NJ 08759,

The Markets

Dawn Marie White, Broker-Office Manager (Crossroads Realty Inc ) — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 21:26:03 -0500

The Markets

After closing at a post-recovery high on Tuesday of last week, the market headed south the next three days as investors assessed the impact of the Federal Reserve's latest missive and digested some less exuberant economic data.

On Wednesday, the Fed said that, "Economic conditions are likely to warrant exceptionally low levels of the federal funds rate for an extended period." This suggests interest rates should remain low for the foreseeable future, which may be healthy for the economy and the stock market. The Fed also said it was slowing the pace of its purchase of mortgage-backed securities. This program has helped stabilize the housing market. Unfortunately, the wording of this particular sentence made some investors think that the government will take away the punch bowl (i.e., the stimulus) a little sooner than expected. After pondering it for a few moments, investors decided it was a good time to book some profits and the market sold off shortly after the release of the Fed statement.

Later in the week, a couple of disappointing housing reports and a weaker than expected durable goods number contributed to further stock market weakness. On the bright side, the Reuters/University of Michigan Surveys of Consumers said its index of sentiment for September rose to 73.5 from 65.7 in August. That was higher than expectation, according to a Reuters poll. It was also the highest reading since January 2008.

Last week's uneven economic news suggests that this economic recovery may look like the printout of an EKG.

ONE OUTCOME OF THE FINANCIAL CRISIS may be that we have to "live with messiness." Instead of a neat and tidy explanation for everything that happens in the markets, it may turn out that humans are sometimes irrational and, as emotional creatures, we occasionally let fear and greed cloud our financial decisions. After witnessing the current financial crisis, the tech stock bubble and burst from a decade ago, and numerous other financial storms over the past 20 years, it seems that when it comes to money, humans are still working through their issues!

In a very interesting September 2 New York Times Magazine article, Nobel Prize winner and liberal economist Paul Krugman discussed the development of economic thought over the past 230 years and how the current financial crisis has thrown economic theory into disarray. Without getting into his political leanings, Krugman makes a case that almost all economists, whether they be conservative or liberal, financial or macroeconomic, missed this crisis. Despite their impressive-looking mathematical formulas and hundreds of years of history, economists, in general, failed to predict the size and timing of our current worldwide maelstrom, and, worse yet, were generally blind to the idea that a catastrophe of this size could even happen in this (enlightened) day and age.

Krugman says economists, "Will have to acknowledge the importance of irrational and often unpredictable behavior, face up to the often idiosyncratic imperfections of markets and accept that an elegant economic ‘theory of everything' is a long way off." In short, he says we have to ‘live with messiness."

Weekly Focus - Think About It

"He who obtains has little. He who scatters has much."

-- Lao Tzu

Compliments of Brian Jennings Princeton Mortgage & Home Capital Network

A Tribute to Michael Jackson

Dawn Marie White, Broker-Office Manager (Crossroads Realty Inc ) — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 23:25:54 -0500

Enjoying a few You Tube videos this evening. Caught the trailer on Moore's new movie Capitalism a Love story should be an interesting one. On the lighter side I was browsing the video's and came across this one and was amazed. What an instrument, The Voice.

A Yale University junior is making a name for himself by honoring the legendary Michael Jackson.

Along with his buddy Kurt Schneider, Sam Tsui has created a video of an a Capella group performing a Michael Jackson medley.

What is so special about that you ask? Well You might be impressed with the vocals but even more impressed with the magical editing. Turns out they're all the same guy! Sam Tsui is singing all the parts and his classmate, , standing off to the side did all the fancy editing to form the make believe group. great voice, great editing, overall amazing talent.I am sure you will see more of these two.

Here is an interview with these two talented young men.

All Credits to:

Sam Tsui - Vocals
Kurt Schneider - Arrangement, Production

www.myspace.com/SamTsui
www.myspace.com/KurtHugo

Festival of the Sea 2009 Point Pleasant Beach NJ

Dawn Marie White, Broker-Office Manager (Crossroads Realty Inc ) — Sun, 20 Sep 2009 09:38:10 -0500

A beautiful day yesterday in Point Pleasant Beach brought the crowds out in droves, The agents and I had a wonderful day speaking with people from all over about the real estate market . I personally had the opportunity to speak with people from Virginia, New York, Florida, and Washington. The interesting common conversation was the market and our recovery. Many people voiced their concerns about the stimulus package that is going to expire in November.

Knowing the 100 year history of real estate, the statement "first time home buyers drive the market" will continue to stand true.

If the powers that be believe history repeating itself in 7 year cycles then they will act on a new bill soon.

I want to thank all who visited our booth yesterday and tell you all that the agents and I look forward to working with all of you to assist in your real estate needs The consumer is our priority, and our dedication to providing excellence in our field will continue to be in the for front of our professional careers.

Our first and second prize winners will be picked from the hat tomorrow Monday September 21st. Good luck to all that entered .

Our representatives in New Jersey need to hear for all of us concerning a new stimulas that will replace the soon to expire one The following link will provide you with a list of New Jersey representatives as well as a link to find other state reps for my out of New Jersey readers.. Our economy is not yet out the woods, jobs need to be created and people need to get back to work..... Let your voice be heard...

http://directory.usayfoundation.org/NJ.html

Best of luck and God Bless,

Dawn Marie White~ Broker-Manager ~ Crossroads Realty Inc

732-581-9414 Cell Direct 732-657-1300 Office ~

dawnmariewhite@gmail.com ~www.njwaterfront.com

Festival of the Sea 2009 Point Pleasant Beach

Dawn Marie White, Broker-Office Manager (Crossroads Realty Inc ) — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 23:03:49 -0500

Saturday Sept 19, 2009 9am to 7pm. Join Crossroads Realty and myself for a fun filled day on Arnold Ave in Point Pleasant Beach, Great food, beautiful crafts, wine tasting from 20 different winery's/vendors, $20 lets you try them all.

In addition to the food there are hundreds of craft vendors featuring handmade items. For entertainment, there is a stage set up on the corner of Arnold and River Avenues that plays host to local musicians and other acts.

The Elk's club uses their outdoor grounds to provide even more food and a beer garden. The money made at the Elk's area goes to the club. They use these funds to provide items for handicapped children.

Crossroads Realty will be located near the Bank of America Corporate center. visit our area to enter for a Gift basket drawing, pick up a few free give-a-ways, and Ask your local professionals your real estate questions on site.

The festival is in the shopping district between Rt 35 South and Rt. 35 North and goes all the way down to the Point Pleasant Boro border

We look forward to seeing you there.

Beginning in September of 1975 as an end of summer gathering, the festival has grown in to a major event for Point Pleasant Beach.

Dawn Marie White

Buyers, Appraisals, The Market

Dawn Marie White, Broker-Office Manager (Crossroads Realty Inc ) — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 22:14:03 -0500

The new code of ethics has taken the relationship away from the Appraiser and the mortgage representative. This practice is no longer acceptable and the appraiser may rely more on the realtor from this point forward.

Make sure the home your going to buy is going to appraise.

Buyer's make sure your agent is completing a buyer's market analysis when you're making an offer. Ask your agent to research closed comparable sales in the immediate area to support your offer.

Bank owned properties, Short sales and Appraisals

If you're a buyer who has time and are considering making an offer on a bank owned or short sale property. Don't think the bank is going to take much less than the exact house that sold around the corner for $250,000 last month.

Short Sales and Bank Owned Properties are on everyone's hit list, but you should know that those words alone create a sense of "We can steel it savings", this is understandable. However the bank is still going to hire an appraiser and offer to sell it at fair market value based on closed sales data.

Market Prediction...

According to Steve Harney National Speaker and Industry Leader The market is still cycling. There will be a second wave of foreclosures, interests' rates will rise, inventory will again decrease and prices will remain for an undetermined period of time. 2010-2011 is the current prediction.

Quick Tips

Take advantage of prices now. History shows they will rise again.

Research the last real estate rise in the neighborhood you are considering.

Be creative when negotiating.

Be smart in your decisions. Family needs, Financing, Neighborhood, Schools, Taxes, and Community Services.

Consult a real estate professional who will provide the information you need to make an informed investment decision.

Dawn Marie White

Broker-Manager

Crossroads Realty Inc

732-581-9414 Cell 732-657-1300 Office

dawnmariewhite@gmail.com www.njwaterfront.com

Commercial Real Estate 2009 Outlook NAR

Dawn Marie White, Broker-Office Manager (Crossroads Realty Inc ) — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 20:08:48 -0500

The Commercial Real Estate Outlook (CREO) from the NAR Research Division provides current statistics, forecasts and insights on market factors that influence office, industrial, retail, and multi-family real estate.

For the 3rd Quarter 2009 report, please visit:

http://www.realtor.org/research/research/commercialhome

Distressed properties reflect struggling market fundamentals

Commercial real estate closed the first half of the year with weakened fundamentals and a slow pace of transactions amid difficult economic conditions. Demand for commercial properties dropped precipitously, bringing down prices and rents. In addition, maturing commercial debt was met with little available credit, leading to a jump in delinquencies and distressed properties. As space flooded the market, vacancy rates have been rising across the board. And while the economic decline is showing signs of a slowdown, commercial real estate continues to face strong headwinds.

NAR FORECAST: Commercial real estate will continue to face negative absorption, increasing vacancies for all property types and declining rents. Commercial debt continues to pose a major threat. Extension of TALF funds for commercial lending should provide liquidity, particularly in the CMBS market. Investments may rise due to distressed properties and lower prices.
Additional analysis of fundamentals along with current investment trends will be posted in the following weeks. The reports will be available to all members at:

http://www.realtor.org/research/economists_outlook/commentaries

Dawn Marie White Broker-Manager Crossroads Realty Inc 732-581-9414 Cell 732-657-1300 Office

dawnmariewhite@gmail.com www.njwaterfront.com

Point Pleasant Art & Craft Fair

Dawn Marie White, Broker-Office Manager (Crossroads Realty Inc ) — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 20:18:35 -0500

Awesome Artisans!
Jewelry, Art, Bath & Body, Cards,
Quilts, Home Decor, Clothing, Sculptures, Books,
Photography, & Much More!
See you there!

Located on 88 East ~ Just West of the McDonalds

Prices Stabilizing

Dawn Marie White, Broker-Office Manager (Crossroads Realty Inc ) — Sun, 09 Aug 2009 22:37:16 -0500

Unsold inventory in New Jersey continues to hold at it's lowest level since 2006, resulting in fewer choices for home buyers. The market now holds 9 months of inventory over all in New Jersey, down from a high of 16.9 months at the beginning of the year. Given that a 6 month supply of homes is the balance point at which home prices stabilize. It looks that we are close to the end of declining home prices. There are however a few areas in Monmouth & Ocean Counties where prices have not decreased at a quick enough pace such as Spring Lake and Brielle causing an extended sluggish market. If your looking in a specific town and would like to know the absorption rate of that particular area. Please contact me at 732-581-9414 Cell... Dawn Marie White... Broker-Regional Manager- Crossroads Realty Inc

Monmouth County Flood Insurance-Bayshore coastal levee

Dawn Marie White, Broker-Office Manager (Crossroads Realty Inc ) — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 22:04:48 -0500

FEMA has expanded it's current flood regions. On September 25th The Federal Emergency Management Administration FEMA Will make new flood zones permanent in 12 coastal Monmouth County Municipalities. FEMA determined that these areas have more than a 1% chance annually of severe flooding.Which means homes that were not in a flood zone before may now be and flood insurance rates will be adjusted accordingly. Eight thousand five hundred and eighty five people in New Jersey north of Middletown will be directly effected. The governing bodies in these areas says "FEMA needs to look at this area for regeneration and should consider repairing the Bayshore coastal levee.".

If FEMA fixes the levee system in the Bayshore area, this would dramatically reduce the number of people susceptible to coastal flooding- in some cases more than $2,000 a year.

The Federal Emergency Management Administration says the coastal levee system built in the Bayshore in the 1970s does not meet current engineering standards - a major reason the flood zone has been expanded.

Well If the levee system - a series of walls, other structures and sand berms - won't protect the homes from a catastrophic storm, the government should bolster it instead of passing the expense onto New Jersey residents.

As always decisions like these will effect the real estate market. Home values have a good chance of decreasing because of new zoning guidelines attached to flood zones. Building, renovations etc... Added expense in this type of an economy when purchasing a home is something our industry does not need.

Homeowners should start investigating flood insurance rates, call your existing Home insurance company first then get a second quote.

New Jersey residents may want call their local congressman and assemblyman or just Drop FEMA a line about the continued economic housing impact of their ingnoring the real problem "the Levee"......

Kristina.Simpson1@DHS.gov

JuanArevalo@mapmodteam.com

Dawn Marie White Broker-Regional Manager-Crossroads Realty Inc

732-581-9414 Cell dawnmariewhite@gmail.com www.njwaterfront.com

Short Sale Packages

Dawn Marie White, Broker-Office Manager (Crossroads Realty Inc ) — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 22:28:33 -0500

Agents from all over the country are training to become short sale experts. The basics are still the basics. An incomplete package could kill the deal. Here is a short and sweet video that lists what items must be included up to the stamp on the overnight package.

Banks do not want to own real estate. Homeowners who are behind on there mortgage may be qualified to sell their homes for less than what they owe depending upon the financial picture of the seller. This is always an option to explore before foreclosure. According to the experts you can qualify for an FHA Mortgage after 3 years if you short sale your home, where if the bank forecloses it will take 5 to 7 years to qualify for another mortgage.. Dawn Marie White 732-981-9414 Cell

New Jersey Pre-Fund First Time Home Buyer Programs

Dawn Marie White, Broker-Office Manager (Crossroads Realty Inc ) — Tue, 04 Aug 2009 23:02:19 -0500

NJHMFA's interest rates have been increased as follows effective immediately August 3, 2009:

First Time Home Buyer 30 Year Term

Did you know that besides the $8000.00 tax credit that is offered by the Federal Government that New Jersey is still offering money to qualified first time home buyers. This money is in the form of a grant and does not have to be paid back as long as you stay in the home for 5 years. This money can be used for closing costs.

First Time home buyers should take advantage now. The November 30th closing date deadline is approaching quickly.

The rates listed below were provided by Gail Tamasy of Home Capital Network & Princeton Mortgage

5.750% - First Mortgage with no Smart Start assistance

6.125% - First Mortgage with 2% Smart Start assistance

6.250% - First Mortgage with 3% Smart Start assistance

6.500% - First Mortgage with 4% Smart Start assistance

The 40 year team requires an additional add-on of .125%

Home Plus

6.125 with 3 points

Purchase/Rehabilitation Mortgage Program

6.125 with 3 points

(Points represent 1% of the total mortgage amount)

If your looking for a quaified professional to guide you though buying or selling a home please contact me.

Best Regards,

Dawn Marie White Broker-Regional Manager Crossroads Realty Inc

732-581-8414 Cell Direct www.njwaterfront.com dawnmariewhite@gmail.com

732-657-1300 Office 732-528-6800 Office

Back to Blogging

Dawn Marie White, Broker-Office Manager (Crossroads Realty Inc ) — Tue, 04 Aug 2009 22:41:03 -0500

After a short break from blogging, I find I am missing sharing thoughts with whom ever reads this thing. I was promoted within Crossroads Realty and have been very busy becoming aquainted with my new colleagues.

A friend introduced me to this artist. I found myself amazed by his talent ,so if you have five or 10 minutes and you appreciate talent check out these videos.

This is an amazing rendition of Michael Jacksons Smooth Criminal. Have a minute check it out.. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wtPMPQePBFE

Dawn Marie White Broker-Regional Manager-Crossroads Realty Inc www.njwaterfront.com 732-581-9414 Cell Direct