South Jersey News & Real Estate

135 Castleton Rd, Delran NJ - Townhome in The Grande at Rancocas Creek

Ravi Shah (Prudential Fox & Roach, REALTORS® - Team Thornton ) — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 08:24:48 -0500

135 Castleton Rd
Delran, NJ 08075

Offered at $299,900

3 Bedroom / 2.5 Bathrooms

Great Location!! This three bedroom 2 1/2 Bath with full basement townhome has a one car garage, backs to open space and trees. A few features include recessed lighting, 2-story entry foyer with hardwood floors,crown molding, 9-foot ceiling and neutral walls and carpet.The dining room opens to the kitchen and breakfast area overlooking the backyard through glass sliders,which leads to a patio. The second floor has all three bedrooms, laundry room and a tech center. Master suite includes two walk-in closets and a large master bathroom which has a stall shower and garden tub. The full basement floor has been painted and has plenty of room for storage.

View Complete Details & More Photo's

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Team Thornton
Contact Me by E-mail
(856) 607-5089

2406 Gramercy Way in Essex Place, Mt. Laurel NJ

Ravi Shah (Prudential Fox & Roach, REALTORS® - Team Thornton ) — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 10:30:31 -0500

2406 Gramercy Way
Mt. Laurel, NJ 08054

Offered at $249,900

3 Bedrooms / 2.5 Baths

One of the Largest models (Oakmont Grand)is a stunning 3 Bedroom, 2.5 bath Townhome in Essex Place. This home offers plenty of upgrades including a huge eat-in kitchen w/upgraded cabinets and new Granite Transformation counter tops and back splash and new lighting. The kitchen also has a center island, pantry and all new appliances including Maytag 3-Door Refrigerator,five burner gas double oven and dishwasher. Family room has gas fireplace, new carpet,fan and upgraded light fixtures. All three bedrooms have new fans and have been painted. Master bedroom offers walk-in closet and private bath w/garden tub. The 10x20 attic has been floored and new staires and lighting installed for plenty of storage. Great location to the shops and the major highways.

View Complete Details & More Photo's

Search Homes for Sale

Team Thornton
Contact Me by E-mail
(856) 607-5089

Burlington County Real Estate Year End Market Report

Ravi Shah (Prudential Fox & Roach, REALTORS® - Team Thornton ) — Mon, 16 Feb 2009 08:12:43 -0600

Burlington County Real Estate Year End Market Report

2008 has finally come to end and for many it was a bumpy ride. With the volatility in the stock market and changing mortgage landscape, many home buyers and sellers struggled to keep up with the housing market. Despite what you hear in the media on a national level, locally we have maintained a relatively stable market.

Here are some 2008 market statistics for Burlington County so you can see for yourself:

The median price in Burlington County for the month of December is flat when compared to 2007. You see seasonal adjustments but for the most part, the median price has hovered in the $230k ballpark. Yes, these numbers are down compared to the past few years, but many would be glad to see that we've stabilized.

I believe the same can be said for the amount of homes that have sold. As you can see from the trend line, home sales have remained flat once you take into account seasonal changes. I see this as a welcome sign as many areas around the nation are still seeing downward declines.

Some other stats to consider:
Average Days on Market has remained stable at just over 3 months. What this means is that for homes that are priced correctly, they sell in about 3 months.
The amount of homes that are for sale at year end dropped to just over 4,400. This may seem like a lot, but consider that during the summer, this number was up over 5,400. So supply has dropped down which points to another positive sign going forward.

All in all, based on 2008 performance in Burlington County, we can only hope that the toughest times are behind us. One would hope that we continue to see stable performance with an upswing as time moves on. If you have questions about buying or selling in today's market, don't hesitate to contact us. We'd be happy to discuss your situation and how to achieve your goals in our current climate.

Data deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Information from Prudential Fox & Roach AgentMetrics from 1/13/09

Congrats to the Philadelphia Phillies!

Ravi Shah (Prudential Fox & Roach, REALTORS® - Team Thornton ) — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 08:55:51 -0500

Congratualtions to our Philadelphia Phillies!

image credit: mike@bensalem

Let the party begin! Philly phans were partying hard last night up and down Broad St.

image credit: dollarbilliam

Read full coverage of the Phillies historic win at the Philadelphia Daily News

See more pictures of the Phillies on Flickr

Next up...it's parade time!

3rd Q Real Estate Market Update for Burlington County

Ravi Shah (Prudential Fox & Roach, REALTORS® - Team Thornton ) — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 14:32:56 -0500

Burlington County Real Estate Market Update

Well, the 3rd quarter is in the books. So how is the real estate market doing right now in Burlington County? Below is a couple of charts that should summarize all the available data.

First is the median price over the past two years.
Compared to 2006, prices have dropped about 10%. Compared to 2007, prices are down about 6%.

The next graph shows the amount of homes sold over the past two years. As many are aware, we are way off from two years ago in 2006. However, when you compare 2007 to 2008, sales are only down 5.5% for September which isn't too bad after the 21% drop from 2006 to 2007. You have to believe that this is a good sign considering how bad you hear about the market nationally.

So overall prices and home sales have continued to drop, but at a much slower rate then what we've seen in the past. Also, compared to national news, Burlington County is fairing much better. This continues to be a buyers market as interest rates continue to stay at low levels.

Data deemed reliable but not gauranteed. Information from Prudential Fox & Roach AgentMetrics from 10/13/08

In Remembrance on Sept 11

Ravi Shah (Prudential Fox & Roach, REALTORS® - Team Thornton ) — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 12:34:14 -0500

In Remembrance on Sept 11

This is the war memorial located in front of the Delran Municipal Center. The plaque on the left names local residents from World War II and the Korean Conflict. The one on the right are names from the first World War.

A Golden Labor Day Parade in Delran

Ravi Shah (Prudential Fox & Roach, REALTORS® - Team Thornton ) — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 16:33:01 -0500

Images from Delran Labor Day Parade

Image Credit: PhastPhotos

Yesterday was truly a unique experience for Delran. For the first time in recent memory, Delran hosted a Labor Day parade which brought residents out in force. Parents, friends and neighbors lined the streets to cheer the marching bands, soccer teams and of course Carli Lloyd - US Olympic Gold Medal winner.

Here are a few photos from the parade. To view the full pictures you can visit my Flickr photo set

Moorestown Homes Showcase

Ravi Shah (Prudential Fox & Roach, REALTORS® - Team Thornton ) — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 08:15:32 -0500

Brandywine Glen is located off of Hartford Road in Moorestown and is full of distinctive homes. Most were built in the mid '90s and no two are the same. The homes here very beautiful and when I was driving by I stopped off and take a few pictures. With large yards and private settings, this is a wonderful to place to call home. In fact, Randall Cunningham lived here when he was the quarterback of the Philadelphia Eagles. If you're ever in the area, I recommend taking a quick drive though!

Visit my photo set on Flickr to view more pictures of Moorestown

Delran Post Office: Yes It's Open

Ravi Shah (Prudential Fox & Roach, REALTORS® - Team Thornton ) — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 14:34:12 -0500

No, it doesn't look like much right now - but yes - this is our Delran Post Office. During conversations with some residents the past couple of weeks, I was surprised to learn that many think the Post Office has closed down. Believe it or not, the Post Office is very open and ready for business.

What you see in the picture is the result of someone parking their car in the lobby many months ago. That's right, in case you missed it, one lucky lady decided to see what would happen if she drives her car through a building.

So yes - it looks boarded up, it's missing a sign and looks closed. But the Delran Post Office is very much open!

Moorestown Spotlight: Moorestown Community House

Ravi Shah (Prudential Fox & Roach, REALTORS® - Team Thornton ) — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 08:02:14 -0500

The photo above is of the Moorestown Community House located on Main Street in Moorestown NJ. It's history goes back to 1926. While many buildings from that time have a more colonial feel, the Community House was a combination of English & Colonial styles to help mimimize the cost to upkeep a brick exterior. If you visit the Community House website, you can read more about the history around the development of this building.

Today, the House is home to many clubs and organizations with meeting rooms, offices, a gym and indoor swimming pool. In fact, I took my swimming lessons at this pool when I was growing up!

What's Missing From This Picture

Ravi Shah (Prudential Fox & Roach, REALTORS® - Team Thornton ) — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 12:13:52 -0500

If you're trying to sell your home, please don't let this happen to you...

(I've blanked out the agent info)

I drive past this home about every other day and I can tell you that this sign has been like this for awhile now. So it's not like it happened overnight.

So what does this tell a prospective buyer driving by?

The house is probably vacant
The listing agent hasn't been anywhere near this house in awhile
Must really not be that nice of a house
Not even sure what brokerage has the listing so can't call office to get more info
Hmmm...that other house down the street looks much better

By the way - I checked the MLS and there are no pictures shown for this home either!
If you're going to hire an agent to help sell your house, I hope you have better luck then this family

The Franklin Institute: Learning Made Fun

Ravi Shah (Prudential Fox & Roach, REALTORS® - Team Thornton ) — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 13:04:43 -0500

Yes, I used learning and fun in the same phrase. The Franklin Institute in Philadelphia is a hot spot for school field trips and visitors of all ages because they do exactly that. They make learning fun.

There are several permanent exhibits to explore. You can take a walk through a model human heart in The Giant Heart exhibit. Space Command lets you learn about space and space exploration. Learn all about trains and take a ride in a Baldwin 6000 at The Train Factory. Other exhibits teach about electricity, air flight and more! Also be sure to check out the nations second oldest Planetarium, an IMAX theater and the many traveling exhibits.

If you've never been, I highly recommend taking the trip over the bridge. It's located right in Center City at the corner of 20th St and Ben Franklin Pkwy. If you take the Ben Franklin Bridge - Take 676 West. Exit at the "Ben Franklin Parkway/Museum Area" exit. At the top of the exit ramp, all traffic must turn right onto 22nd Street. One block later, turn right onto the Ben Franklin Parkway. Stay in the far right hand lanes. One block later, turn right onto 21st Street. One block later, 21st Street intersects with Winter Street. Just past the intersection, the entrance to the parking garage is on your left hand side.

Another family business on the move

Ravi Shah (Prudential Fox & Roach, REALTORS® - Team Thornton ) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 16:29:39 -0500

Bucci Funiture Going Out of Business

Looks like another one is biting the dust. First Dynasty Diner, now Bucci Furniture.

After 60+ years in Delran, this is the scene today:

And right across the street, construction is moving along real quick on Walgreens. You know, because we're really desperate for a drug store in town!!

Moorestown Home For Sale - 806 N. Stanwick Rd

Ravi Shah (Prudential Fox & Roach, REALTORS® - Team Thornton ) — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 14:45:19 -0500

806 N. Stanwick Rd
Moorestown, NJ 08057

Offered at $999,999
7 total bedrooms, 3.5 total bathrooms

Welcome Home to this custom 3 story situated on 1.16 acres in Moorestown.

The Main house features 6 bedrooms, 2.5 baths with hardwood flooring throughout. The Carriage house includes yet another bedroom, full bath, kitchen, sitting area and separate utility connections. This is perfect to use as an in-law suite or an alternate "kids space" to keep the noise and clutter out of the main house. Next to the in-ground pool is a Cabana with changing room and half bath.

The First floor features a family room with custom built mantle, gas fireplace, wet-bar, stained glass lighting and double french doors leading to the back patio. The kitchen includes corian counter tops, double wall ovens, island cooking, double french doors leading to back porch and separate eating area. Formal dining room allows for seating of 10 while overlooking the backyard. Library is highlighted by a brick fireplace and custom built book cases.

You'll find 4 bedrooms on the second floor with the Master bedroom featuring a sitting area with fireplace and sauna shower. The third floor includes yet another 2 bedrooms with large closets, lounge area and large room for storage or play that can be converted into another bath. Complete with a one year home warranty all that is left is to move in!

Click to view individual pictures on Flickr.com

For more information or to schedule a showing, contact:

Ravi Shah, REALTOR^®
South Jersey Real Estate Blog
Prudential Fox & Roach
O: (856) 222-0077 x153
C: (609) 760-7852

Mount Laurel in Pictures

Ravi Shah (Prudential Fox & Roach, REALTORS® - Team Thornton ) — Tue, 05 Aug 2008 17:25:49 -0500

Photos around Burlington County - Mount Laurel, NJ

This fountain in located on Briggs Road in Mount Laurel - right off Rt. 38. There are actually two of them, one across the street from each other. I pass these each day as it's right around the corner from my office.

Lowes or Home Depot?

Ravi Shah (Prudential Fox & Roach, REALTORS® - Team Thornton ) — Tue, 05 Aug 2008 14:13:21 -0500

Photos around Burlington County

Last Sunday I spent much of my afternoon at Lowe's in Delran as we're renovating our bathroom. I did pick up a few things from Home Depot as well, but between the two in Delran I tend to prefer Lowe's. It seems to be larger and usually has a better selection (in my own personal opinion). The Home Depot in Burlington is pretty big and I do like that one...but it's more of a hike for me.

So between the two, I tend to gravitate to Lowe's. How about you? Which do you prefer?

Burlington County Market Update - 2Q 08

Ravi Shah (Prudential Fox & Roach, REALTORS® - Team Thornton ) — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 08:41:04 -0500

Burlington County Real Estate Market Update - 2Q 08

Supply and Demand

If you read through my Camden County update, then the chart below should look very familiar. Burlington County had been fairing pretty well until the summer hit. As you can see, the number of homes for sale jumped way up and has been hovering just over 5,500. This is the highest it has been in two years. The number of homes selling continues to be at 500 or less on a given month. Looking at percentages, only 6% - 9% of homes are selling and the ones that do sell, generally do so in about three months.

Price

As I've said before, when supply is up and demand is down, down goes prices as well. Below is the median price over the past two years and I believe the trend line says it all. While you typically see seasonal adjustments over the summer, this summer is down compared to the past two summers about 4%.

Bottom line - if you're trying to sell your home right now - you need to be in the top 10% of over 5,500 other homes. There is much to choose from for Buyers out there and they know it. Homes must show well, be available to be shown and must be priced accordingly!

Ravi Shah, REALTOR^®
South Jersey Real Estate Blog
Prudential Fox & Roach
O: (856) 222-0077 x153
C: (609) 760-7852

Information based on Prudential Fox & Roach AgentMetrics reports on 7/22/08
Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed

Philly Commute Costs To Increase This Fall

Ravi Shah (Prudential Fox & Roach, REALTORS® - Team Thornton ) — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 15:14:08 -0500

Philly Commute Costs To Increase This Fall

Do you live in New Jersey and commute to work in Philadelphia? Thinking of moving to New Jersey to commute to Philadelphia?

Starting in September, this commute could cost a few extra dollars each month. The DRPA just announced proposed fare increases today, which if approved, will be effective September 2008. Here is a summary from the press release:

BRIDGE TOLLS

1. A $1.00 increase September 2008, another $1.00 increase September 2010 and cost of living increases every two years after that. There will be proportional increases for all other toll classes.

2. A phase out of the commuter discount. The credit for 18 crossings a month on the same transponder will be reduced to $12 September 2008, reduced to $6.00 in September 2009 and the discount would end September 2010.

3. The Senior Citizen discount would remain with a few changes. The Senior discount will now be directly linked to an E-ZPass account and will only be accepted during off-peak hours. The peak hours when the discount will be invalid are from 6-9am and 4-7pm Monday thru Friday. The Senior Discount will be 50% of the normal toll and is limited to one crossing a day. THE DELAWARE RIVER PORT AUTHORITY REMAINS THE ONLY TOLL AGENCY IN THE COUNTRY WITH A SENIOR DISCOUNT.

4.The current commercial discount will be eliminated.

5.CREATION OF A NEW GREEN PASS DISCOUNT. This new $1.00 discount will be offered to E-ZPass customers driving low emission vehicles that get at least 45 miles to the gallon. The vehicles must meet the California Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle or pre-model year 2005 hybrid vehicle certified to the California Ultra Low Emission Vehicle Standard. This discount is scheduled to sunset after two years.

PATCO FARES

1. A 10% increase September 2008, another 10% increase September 2010 with cost of living increases every two years after that.

2. The federally mandated reduced fare program for seniors and disabled which is now 57 cents would increase to 62 cents September 2008 and then 70 cents September 2010.

3. PATCO fares vary depending on the length of the trip however looking at the person who travels from Lindenwold, Ashland or Woodcrest, to Center City Philadelphia the cost of a one-way ticket would increase 25 cents from $2.45 to $2.70 September 2008. In September 2010, the cost would increase 30 cents from $2.70 to $3.00.

If you're intersted to learn more, there will be two public hearings. These will be held on July 22nd at Rutgers-Camden and July 23rd at the Cruise Terminal in South Philadelphia. Both hearings will be from 6pm to 8pm.

2008 ACS Bike-a-thon - Who Are You Riding For?

Ravi Shah (Prudential Fox & Roach, REALTORS® - Team Thornton ) — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 12:51:21 -0500

For the second year in a row, I'm helping raise money to battle cancer. I'll be riding in the 36th Annual American Cancer Society Philadelphia Bike-a-thon this Sunday July 13th 2008. Almost everyone, including myself, knows a family member or friend who has been affected by cancer. If you would like to support this event and my efforts, please Click here to visit my personal page and make on online donation.

About the American Cancer Society

There's never been a more exciting time to get involved with the American Cancer Society. Today, the number of people dying from cancer is dropping, despite our growing population. Fewer people are being diagnosed with cancer and fewer people are dying from the disease. We know more about the causes of cancer and its treatment and cures than ever before. And we are helping to save lives every day.

The work of the American Cancer Society over many decades has helped us make amazing strides against this disease. The trailblazing cancer research funded by the Society has led to valuable developments such as the link between smoking and lung cancer, and Gleevec, which improves quality of life and stunts cancer growth with fewer side effects. With billions invested in cancer research, the Society has helped promising investigators make important discoveries.

The Bike-a-thon is more that just a fund raiser. It's a chance for caring people in a community to come together to support each other. And support is crucial for those who have been touched by cancer. At the American Cancer Society, the funds raised through Bike-a-thon not only go to research, advocacy, and education, but also for vital programs and services that give people hope and answers.

About the Ride

The first starting point is the Ben Franklin Bridge in Philadelphia and ends 65 miles later in Buena Vista NJ. Some will ride the Century option which will extend the ride to just under 100 miles. Although I wish I could ride this far, I can't! I'll be starting from the second starting point in Cherry Hill, NJ which will bring the ride to 54 miles.

Please consider making a donation to my efforts and that of the American Cancer Society. No donation is to small!

Click here to visit my personal page and make on online donation.

Ravi Shah, REALTOR^®
South Jersey Real Estate Blog
Prudential Fox & Roach
O: (856) 222-0077 x153
C: (609) 760-7852

2008 4th of July events in Burlington County

Ravi Shah (Prudential Fox & Roach, REALTORS® - Team Thornton ) — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 12:31:26 -0500

As many around the county are winding down graduation and other end of school year celebrations - it's time to wind up for one more. 4th of July is days away and many will be celebrating Independance Day.

How will you be celebrating this weekend?

For most - the weekend will include time with family and friends and a backyard bbq. Others will be heading down the shore.

Here are a few yearly events that have gained popularity:

Riverton has a whole slate of events to celebrate this year which can be viewed at the Riverton website. My family always attends the parade which will start at 10am and run along Main St. If you are going, plan to get there early as space along the route fills up fast. At 2:30pm you can head over to Elm Terrace for the downhill soapbox race. At 4:30pm be sure to check out the Great Riverton Raft Race at the Riverton Yacht Club.

Medford will aslo be hosting their annual Independence Day Festivities at Freedom Park, 60 Union Street, on Thursday July 3rd. This includes a moon bounce, food vendors and a concert beginning at 7:00pm featuring All About Me. Fireworks will kickoff at appoximately 9:15pm.

Moorestown will be having their annual parade as well starting at 10am along Main St. After the parade, head over to Memorial Field for a pie eating contest, baking contest, ice cream eating contest, games, and entertainment for all!

If you know of other events, pleae be sure to leave a comment with the details.

Ravi Shah, REALTOR^®
South Jersey Real Estate Blog
Prudential Fox & Roach
O: (856) 222-0077 x153
C: (609) 760-7852

Please note that dates are times are subject to change

Rare Cinnaminson Home For Sale on 0.92 Acres

Ravi Shah (Prudential Fox & Roach, REALTORS® - Team Thornton ) — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 20:47:57 -0500

Ravi Shah | Prudential Fox & Roach | mail@sjhomes.net | (856) 222-0077 x153

2605 Barton Dr, Cinnaminson, NJ

Wellington West gem on 0.92 acres with in-ground pool

4BR/2.5BA Single Family House

offered at $429,900

Year Built	1963
Sq Footage	Unspecified
Bedrooms	4
Bathrooms	2 full, 1 partial
Floors	3
Parking	2 Car garage
Lot Size	0.92 acres
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Welcome to this 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath Hamilton model located in Wellington West on a private cul-de-sac.

Enjoy outdoor living as this rare find sits on almost one full acre with an in-ground pool, Jacuzzi, gas BBQ grill and enclosed sunroom. Inside you'll find a newly renovated and expanded eat-in kitchen with custom cherry cabinets & new bamboo hardwood floors. Flooring also extends through the dining room which can also be used as a den overlooking the backyard. Relax by the fire in the living room which is wired for surround sound. A ceramic tiled laundry area w/front loading washer & dryer complete the main floor. The finished basement serves as a comfortable family room and upstairs you'll find access to a walk in attic. The spacious bedrooms with wall to wall carpeting also have original hardwood underneath.

With a one year home warranty included there is nothing left to do but move in!

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	Central heat	Fireplace
Hardwood floor	Tile floor	Family room
Living room	Dining room	Breakfast nook
Dishwasher	Refrigerator	Stove/Oven
Microwave	Granite countertop	Stainless steel appliances
Attic	Washer	Dryer
Laundry area - inside	Balcony, Deck, or Patio	Yard
Swimming pool	Jacuzzi/Whirlpool

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

Ravi Shah

Prudential Fox & Roach

mail@sjhomes.net

(856) 222-0077 x153

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Jul 29, 2008, 4:02am PDT

Delran NJ Real Estate Market Update for Q1 2008

Ravi Shah (Prudential Fox & Roach, REALTORS® - Team Thornton ) — Thu, 17 Apr 2008 12:56:11 -0500

Delran Real Estate Market Update: Q1 2008

How is the real estate market here in Delran? Well, after a relatively stable 2007, it looks like 2008 is off to a rocky start.

Median Price (Single Family Homes)

For most of 2007, the median price of homes sold in Delran was relatively flat. In fact we even saw a short upward trend around late summer of last year. As you can see from the chart, the first quarter of 2008 looks like the market took a cliff dive. What is interesting to see though is that the median price of homes for sale continues to increase. I would have thought by now we would have seen asking prices level off, but looks like that is not the case.

Supply & Demand (Single Family Homes)

Looking at the supply and demand of homes in Delran will give you a little more insight into the price trends as well. Generally, prices drop when supply is greater then demand. Well, supply is much greater then demand right now! By the end of March 2008, there were 109 homes for sale which appears to be the highest it's been in 2 years. On the flip side, the demand is at an all time low as only 6 homes have sold the past two months (3 in Mar, 3 in Feb). That's right - only 3 homes in each of the past two months. In addition, only 8 homes went under contract in March. How long is it taking for these homes to sell? On average 3.5 to 4 months.

It's a Buyers Market

If you're trying to sell your home right now in Delran - it's going to come down to price and marketing. With over a hundred homes for sale and only a handful selling each month, you really need to set yourself apart from the competition. You need to price your home aggressively and make sure it gets the widest marketing exposure you can get it. It's a buyers market out there - and potential buyers know it.

If you have any questions about the current real estate market...please don't hesitate to call or email

Ravi Shah, REALTOR^®
South Jersey Real Estate Blog / Delran Real Estate
Prudential Fox & Roach
O: (856) 222-0077 x153
C: (609) 760-7852

Information based on Prudential Fox & Roach AgentMetrics reports
Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed

It must be Spring: It's Baseball Season!

Ravi Shah (Prudential Fox & Roach, REALTORS® - Team Thornton ) — Fri, 04 Apr 2008 12:49:14 -0500

One of the questions I frequently get from people out of state is: "What sports teams do people follow?"

Many people would naturally assume that we (and by "we" I mean those from South Jersey) follow New Jersey teams. Two problems with that assumption. First, NJ only has a basketball and hockey team - and no, I don't count the Giants or Jets. Second, we're from South Jersey! Down here we love our Philadelphia sports teams. I would say that for the most part Burlington County and south is your dividing line. Above that, you'll probably be surrounded by fans of those NJ or NY teams.

Well, Spring is here and it's baseball season! The Philadelphia Phillies kicked off the season this week and I'm happy to say I was able to catch a game. If you're in Burlington or Camden County, the stadium is probably about 1/2 hour away right over the Walt Whitman Bridge. They have a great new stadium which doesn't have a bad seat in the house and has great views of the skyline.

If you have younger kids with short attention spans (like mine) - not to worry. If they have trouble sitting still, bring them over to the Phanatic Phun Zone to use up some energy.

So make sure you head out to the park and cheer on the team! Go Phillies!

Burlington & Camden County Market Updates

Ravi Shah (Prudential Fox & Roach, REALTORS® - Team Thornton ) — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 20:19:03 -0500

Burlington County Real Estate Market Update

Looks like 2008 is off to a slower start then what we saw in 2007:

As the chart indicates above, the number of homes for sale is up about 9% from last year. A slight increase but not that dramatic in my opinion. The figure that really sticks out however is that the number of homes that went under contract in February. Feb '08 saw 242 homes placed under contract vs. 473 homes in '07. That's almost a 50% drop! Wow!

The median price for Burlington County has also shown a decline from last year of about 5.6% to $218,000. The homes that are selling go in about 3 months (97 days) which is a 22% from 79 days in Feb '07.

Camden County Real Estate Update

The market in Camden County looks very similar to what is happening in Burlington County. At the end of February, there were 4,945 homes for sale. This is almost a 9% increase from this time in 2007. 282 homes went under contract last month which is almost a 50% drop from '07 (554 homes). The homes that are selling are doing so in under 3 months on average, about 83 days. This isn't that much different from last year when it took 77 days for homes to sell.

How about prices? As I've said before, pricing in Camden County has remained rather stable. The median price for Feb '08 was $184,000. This is only slightly off from last year which was $187,000. Prices have dropped since the peak of the market, but as you can see over the past year prices aren't moving as much.

So what does this all mean? If you trying to sell your home right now, you really need to make it stand out from the rest. Pricing & marketing are key right now more then ever before. If you're in the market for a home, you'll probably be able to find the home you want at a very favorable price.

Any questions, please don't hesitate to contact me:

Ravi Shah, REALTOR^®
South Jersey Real Estate Blog
Prudential Fox & Roach
O: (856) 222-0077 x153
C: (609) 760-7852

Data based on Prudential Fox & Roach HomeExpert Reports
Information Deemed Reliable but Not Guaranteed

Is Your Home Inspector Licensed?

Ravi Shah (Prudential Fox & Roach, REALTORS® - Team Thornton ) — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 14:05:58 -0600

You're buying a home and it's probably one of the biggest investments you'll ever make. You're going to hire a home inspector to check it out. So, who do you hire?

Currently the standard contract to purchase a home in this area reads "Buyer's qualified inspectors". Technically the home inspector you hire does not have to be licensed. I'm sure there are many good ones out there that belong to various associations/organizations that are fully qualified. However, did you know that the State of New Jersey has a program to license home inspectors?

The NJ Home Inspection Advisory Committee licenses home inspectors and regulates the home inspection profession. These inspectors are regulated by the State of NJ and follow State Standards of Practice. Want to know if the home inspector you're hiring is licensed? You can search the Home Inspectors Licensee Directory.

Again, this is probably one of the biggest investments you'll ever make. Don't leave your inspection up to chance. Make sure they're licensed to give you peace of mind about your inspection.

Ravi Shah, REALTOR^®
South Jersey Real Estate Blog
Prudential Fox & Roach
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