Southern New Jersey Region Overlook!

Dickens Festival at Historic Medford Village: December 5th, 6 - 9:30 p.m. 2009

Sun, 06 Dec 2009 14:30:47 -0600

The township of Medford will celebrate it's 20th annual Dickens Festival, Saturday, Dec. 5th.

LOCATION: MAIN STREET (ROUTE 541) MEDFORD, NJ
EVENT DATE: SATURDAY DECEMBER 6, 2008, 6:00 PM - 9:30 PM
RAIN DATE: SUNDAY DECEMBER 7, 2008, 3:00 PM - 6:30 PM

Sponsored by the , it's the official Medford start to the Holiday season!

Kicking off the festival will be a tree lighting ceremony in the Main Street Gazebo at 18 North Main Street at 6:15 p.m. with events taking place continously throughout the evening.

Area residents and visitors are encouraged to stroll through Medford's historic village and into the past to experience an 18^th Century Dickens' Village lined with dimly lit lampposts, quaint shops trimmed with twinkling lights and dressed for the holidays. Plus, a live Nativity at Tomlinson Park and the town's ever famous Town Crier will ring in the season with the ever anticipated arrival of Santa.

Come and take a complimentary carriage ride through the back streets of Medford's historic village. Trolley will be available to shuttle you to and from designated parking lots.

There is something to enjoy for all ages.

(Source: Medford Twp PR, HMVA)

Fort Dix Hosting July 4th Fun and Firework - 2009

Sat, 04 Jul 2009 16:52:15 -0500

It's still time to join Fort Dix and the nation in observance of Independence Day on Sunday July 4th with fun, fireworks and entertainment at Doughboy Field. The event, 6 to 11 p.m., is open to the public.

The festivities kick off at 6pm and be prepared to be entertained by radio station Power 99 on-air personality; the up and coming singer Anthony Hall, the Silver Wings and R&B artist, Keyshia Cole.

A spectacular fireworks display begins around 9:30 p.m.

To enter the installation for the event photo identification will be required for all adults and children over the age of 12.

As a result of installations post-911 security requirements, no picnic baskets or coolers will be permitted, but blankets and chairs will be allowed. Vendors will be on site providing food and refreshments available for purchase.

Individuals with a military ID card/Civilian Government ID Card and appropriate DOD Decal on their vehicles will be admitted access at all gates. There will be restricted parking and buses will be provided to Doughboy Field, the site for the festivities starting at 5 p.m. (Click here for more information)

Click here for a list of other fireworks scheduled through the Delaware Valley.

Medford, NJ Blast from the Past Classic Car Show - May 16, 2009

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 00:18:46 -0500

Medford will be hosting it's annual "Blast from the Past" on Saturday, May 16th. It was a great success last year.

This event provides everyone a chance to shop and eat in Medford and enjoy live entertainment ... and, of course, enjoy the fabulous custom cars and trucks that will be lining Main Street.

If you have a classic car and would like to participate, click here for the registration form to enter your vehicle.

Time: 10:00am - 4:00 pm

For some pictorial highlights from last year's event:

Blast from the Past - Classic Car Show - 2008

Wishing You A Better Year In 2009

Thu, 01 Jan 2009 16:43:27 -0600

Wishing all of you a ...

... and a Prosperous and Healthy 2009!

We are thankful and feel blessed that, despite it's many challenges, we have survived 2008.

We now look forward in 2009 as we have made many significant adjustments for the changing market are in the process of implementing many enhancements and upgrades to continue expanding our effective market coverage and our ability to provide the best service to you!

We're we are excited about the benefits these changes will provide in 2009!

Come along with us!

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays 2008!

Thu, 25 Dec 2008 00:04:15 -0600

Hoping you and your family have a warm, wonderful, Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

The Christmas season holds special meaning unique to each one of us.

Here are links to resources we have provided in previous articles celebrating from different persepctives the meanings, traditions, literature, music, food, fun, faith and family gatherings associated with this time of the year. Enjoy!

Christmas Holiday Music On The Internet
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!
Celebrate: The Christmas Holiday Season
The Holiday Season - Christmas Carols and Songs
Filling Your Home With Winter Cheer - Part 1 of 3
Filling Your Home With Winter Cheer - Part 2 of 3
Filling Your Home With Winter Cheer - Part 3 of 3
Christmas Holiday Fun

Realty Reality - Blog Posts - Highlights - November 2008

Wed, 17 Dec 2008 20:58:38 -0600

Here are some of the Realty Reality blog articles that appeared during the past month of November:

Census Bureau Release October 2008 Homes Sales
Sales of new one-family houses in October 2008 were at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 433,000, according to estimates released jointly recently by the U.S. Census Bureau and the Department of Housing and Urban Development...

Celebrate: Thanksgiving 2008
Hoping everyone has a happy and safe Thanksgiving Holiday (and productive shopping time! :-)
For informative history and resources about our Thanksgiving Holiday, see my previous article: Celebrate Thanksgiving...

MBA Study Shows Government-Insured Share of Mortgage Applications Continues to Increase
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The government-insured share of mortgage applications continues to grow relative to conventional mortgage applications, according to data from the Mortgage Bankers Association's (MBA) Weekly Mortgage Applications Survey. Of all mortgage applications taken during the month of October 2008, 32.9 percent were for government-insured loans (consisting mainly of FHA loans) compared to 10.3 percent in October 2007...

Flexibility for "Hope For Homeowners" Program Just Announced
WASHINGTON - U.S. Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Steve Preston today announced that the HOPE for Homeowners (H4H) Board of Directors has approved changes to the program to help more distressed borrowers refinance into affordable, government-back mortgages. The changes will reduce the program costs for consumers and lenders alike while also expanding eligibility by driving down the borrower's monthly mortgage payments...

Strengthening Your Personal Finances: Some Guidelines
Eight areas on which to focus in order to strengthen your finances and survive in a difficult economy...

Mortgages Today: What to Know
With so much changing in the real estate and financial markets in recent weeks, many potential buyers are looking for answers. If you're currently shopping around for a mortgage, here is some information to consider...

Home Safety Council® Research Reveals Few Families Take Action to Prevent Falls - the Leading Cause of Home Injury
NATIONAL NONPROFIT URGES CAREGIVERS TO PROTECT OLDER ADULTS AND CHILDREN - THE AGE GROUPS AT MOST RISK. Falls are the leading cause of home injury and injury-related death in the U.S. However, new research from the Home Safety Council (HSC) indicates only 25 percent of adults have taken any action at all to prevent injuries from falls in and around their homes. In particular, by failing to take critical falls-prevention measures, caregivers are leaving their loved ones at serious risk for the nearly 5.1 million injuries and close...

HUD Issues New Mortgage Rules To Help Consumers Shop For Lower Cost Home Loans
New 'Good Faith Estimate' will help borrowers save nearly $700. WASHINGTON - For the first time in more than 30 years, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development(HUD) today issued long-anticipated mortgage reforms that will help consumers to shop for the lowest cost mortgage and avoid costly and potentially harmful loan offers. HUD will require, for the first time ever, that lenders and mortgage brokers provide consumers with a standard Good Faith Estimate (GFE) that clearly discloses key loan terms and closing costs. HUD estimates its new regulation will save consumers nearly $700 at the closing table...

Community Supported Agriculture: Powerful Produce
For most consumers, the only brush with truly fresh produce is when making a trip to the local farmer's market. Unless you're lucky enough to have both a patch of land suitable for a garden and the requisite green thumb, you're likely more used to the unpredictable world of supermarket produce. This predicament has spawned an innovative system that connects normal consumers with small family farms in your area. This increasingly popular strategy is known as "Community Supported Agriculture"...

HUD Announces New, Permanent FHA Mortgage Loan Limits
WASHINGTON - U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development(HUD) Secretary Steve Preston today announced the new Federal Housing Administration (FHA) mortgage loan limits for single-family homes as prescribed by the Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008...

More Governments Coming to Evicted Renters' Rescue
Governments are stepping in to protect renters who find themselves evicted when the property they rent is foreclosed...

For real estate resources, help and support services in acquiring or selling properties in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, Visit my web site: LawrenceYerkes.com

and visit Besthomes-NJ.com to shop for the latest New Jersey Real Estate property listings (Residential, Commercial, Multi-Family, Farm, Land).

Realty Reality - Blog Posts - Highlights - October 2008

Wed, 17 Dec 2008 20:53:29 -0600

Here are some of the Realty Reality blog articles that appeared during the past month of October:

HUD Modernizes Online Guide For Avoiding Foreclosure
Do you need help finding a housing counselor or contacting your lender? Or do you want more information about mortgage refinance options offered by HUD's Federal Housing Administration (FHA)? Americans are able to do all this and more thanks to an updated website developed by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. The Guide to Avoiding Foreclosure is a one-stop-shop designed to educate Americans about the most current housing information and resources HUD has to offer. The updated site has a number of helpful resources particularly important for Americans at risk for losing their homes...

Relief Nears for 3 Million Strapped Homeowners
The U.S. Government's latest plan to aid struggling homeowners is close to being finalized. This plan could move as many as three million people into more-affordable mortgages...

Congratulations Philadeplhia Phillies - 2008 World Series Champians
The Phillies clinched the title by defeating Tampa Bay in the rain-delayed second night portion of the 5th game at Philadelphia. It is their second World Series championship (the 1st occuring in 1980)...

Realtor.Com® Launches New Redesigned Site For Home Searching
A redesigned REALTOR.com, the nation's No. 1 real estate Web site, will launch today to deliver even more user friendly features to consumers and more value and power to Realtors® marketing their brand and client properties...

Federal Reserve Beige Book October 2008 Report
Reports indicated that economic activity weakened in September across all twelve Federal Reserve Districts. Several Districts also noted that their contacts had become more pessimistic about the economic outlook...

Pew Report on Networked Workers
According to a recent Pew Internet & American Life Project report, "Networked Workers", most workers use the internet or email at their jobs, but they say these technologies are a mixed blessing for them...

IRS Certifies Advanced Lean-Burn Technology Vehicles
The Internal Revenue Service(IRS) has acknowledged the certifications by manufacturers that certain advanced lean-burn technology vehicles qualify for the alternative motor vehicle tax credit...

Economists Against Current Bailout Plans
According to a FoxNews.com online article, Economists Raise Concerns About Bailout Plan, "Interviews conducted with a dozen prominent academic economists, Obama supporters as well as McCain supporters, found little support for the bailout bill. Indeed, even the one economist who supported the proposal passed by the Senate Wednesday night had serious reservations..."

Mark-To-Market Rules Effect Everyone
There has been a lot of talk in the news during the current $700B federal bailout discussions regarding the Mark-To-Market (MTM) (also called Marked-To-Market) reporting rules (e.g., FASB 157) that require financial institutions to value their assets at the current fair market value...

For real estate resources, help and support services in acquiring or selling properties in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, Visit my web site: LawrenceYerkes.com

and visit Besthomes-NJ.com to shop for the latest New Jersey Real Estate property listings (Residential, Commercial, Multi-Family, Farm, Land).

Lien Relief for Homeowners Trying to Refinance or Sell from the IRS

Wed, 17 Dec 2008 20:23:42 -0600

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has announced an expedited process that will make it easier for financially distressed homeowners to avoid having a federal tax lien block refinancing of mortgages or the sale of a home.

If taxpayers are looking to refinance or sell a home and there is a federal tax lien filed, there are options. Taxpayers or their representatives, such as their lenders, may request that the IRS make a tax lien secondary to the lien by the lending institution that is refinancing or restructuring a loan. Taxpayers or their representatives may request that the IRS discharge its claim if the home is being sold for less than the amount of the mortgage lien under certain circumstances.

The process to request a discharge or a subordination of a tax lien takes approximately 30 days after the submission of the completed application, but the IRS will work to speed those requests in wake of the economic downturn. (Source: IR-2008-141)

For the complete IRS press release about Lien Relief from the IRS, click here.

Commercial Property On Corner Lot in Gibbstown, NJ

Wed, 17 Dec 2008 20:13:21 -0600

Lawrence Yerkes | RE/MAX Suburban | 609-953-1330

630 W. Broad St., Gibbstown, NJ

Commercial building on corner lot. Many uses. Good location. Close
to Rt. 295 Exit 16B.

Retail/Commercial

offered at $195,000

Year Built	Unspecified
Sq Footage	1,056
Floors	1
Parking	Unspecified
Lot Size	.34 acres
Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Commercial building on corner lot. Within 1 mile of Rt. 295 (Exit 16B). Has be recently remodeled and upgraded. Currently home to a growing retail business (which is also optionally available along with contents). Many possible uses: retail, office, professional, food service and more! Good Location with paved parking and free standing sign. Great opportunity!

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Commercial / Retail building on corner lot. Variety of uses.

LOCATION FEATURES

Easy accesss with paved parking.

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

Close to Rt. 295 Exit 16B.

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

Lawrence Yerkes

RE/MAX Suburban

609-953-1330

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Dec 16, 2008, 6:27pm PST

For Additional Information About This Property:
http://BestHomes-NJ.com/TR5459707

Visit My Web Sites For Additional Properties and Resources:

http://LawrenceYerkes.com

http://BestHomes-NJ.com (includes Commerical/Investment Properties)

Approval of $777M for Hopewell Township, NJ Medical Office Building from HUD

Wed, 17 Dec 2008 20:01:25 -0600

HUD deal to contruct a 223-bed hospital and medical office building in Hopewell, Mercer County, New Jersey. It will replace Capital Health System's aging Mercer Medical Center, expand Fuld Hospital.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development(HUD) made a commitment to insure a loan to Capital Health System (CHS) in Trenton, New Jersey to construct a new 223-bed hospital in Hopewell Township, New Jersey to replace the existing Mercer Medical Center. The $777 million loan is made possible through the Federal Housing Administration's (FHA) Section 242 Hospital Mortgage Insurance Program.

In addition, the system's Fuld Hospital will create two new medical-surgical units and provide space to accommodate services transferred from Mercer. By insuring the mortgage loan, FHA enabled Capital Health System to obtain a lower cost financing, saving the hospital an estimated $487 million in interest payments throughout the life of the loan. (Source: HUD No. 08-186)

For the complete HUD press release, see my personal blog entry: click here for my corresponding personal blog article.

Internet Evolution: The Future of the Internet III

Sun, 14 Dec 2008 17:18:15 -0600

Experts and analysts assess the future of the internet in a new survey.

Washington, December 14, 2008 - A survey of internet leaders, activists and analysts shows they expect major tech advances as the phone becomes a primary device for online access, voice-recognition improves, artificial and virtual reality become more embedded in everyday life, and the architecture of the internet itself improves.... (Source: Pew Internet & American Life Project)

While there is disagreement about the benefits that will be provided toward social tolerance, more foregiving human relations and better home lives; there is concensus among the experts in their predictions for the technology in the year 2020.

Learn more

View PDF of Report

Medford Holiday Tour of Homes - December 7th, 1 - 5 p.m.

Fri, 05 Dec 2008 01:42:31 -0600

Medford Holiday Tour of Homes, Sunday, Dec. 7, 1-5pm Tickets: $15.00

The tour is sponsored by the Medford Historical Society.

For more information, tickets and profiles of homes, visit http://www.medfordholidaytour.com/

For tickets call Paul Cannon at 856-596-4772. Or visit the retail ticket location throughout Medford listed on our Tickets Page.

Proceeds benefit the restoration of Kirby's Mill.

Dickens Festival at Historic Medford Village: December 6th, 6 - 9:30 p.m. 2008

Fri, 05 Dec 2008 01:41:39 -0600

The township of Medford will celebrate it's 19th annual Dickens Festival, Saturday, Dec. 6th.

LOCATION: MAIN STREET (ROUTE 541) MEDFORD, NJ
EVENT DATE: SATURDAY DECEMBER 6, 2008, 6:00 PM - 9:30 PM
RAIN DATE: SUNDAY DECEMBER 7, 2008, 3:00 PM - 6:30 PM

Sponsored by the Historic Medford Village Association, it's the official Medford start to the Holiday season!

Kicking off the festival will be a tree lighting ceremony in the Main Street Gazebo at 18 North Main Street at 6:15 p.m. with events taking place continously throughout the evening.

Area residents and visitors are encouraged to stroll through Medford's historic village and into the past to experience an 18^th Century Dickens' Village lined with dimly lit lampposts, quaint shops trimmed with twinkling lights and dressed for the holidays. Plus, a live Nativity at Tomlinson Park and the town's ever famous Town Crier will ring in the season with the ever anticipated arrival of Santa.

Come and take a complimentary carriage ride through the back streets of Medford's historic village. Trolley will be available to shuttle you to and from designated parking lots.

There is something to enjoy for all ages.

For more information, call 609-714-8811 or email info@HMVA.org.

TEEN DICKENS FEST:

In conjunction with the Dickens Festival, the Medford Township Municipal Alliance is pleased to announce that the popular Teen Dickens Fest FREE special event for area teens is again being offered.

A must for every teen's social calendar. Plan to join in this event held during the annual Dickens Festival. Features live music, dancing, coffeehouses and other special activities especially for teens. Special drawings held throughout the evening with many great prizes, donated by area businesses. Co-sponsored by the Medford Municipal Alliance and Fellowship Alliance Chapel (FAC). To participate as a band, call (609) 654-2512 or e-mail recreation@medfordtownship.com

Scheduled from 7:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. at Allen School, festivities will include live music, dancing and activities especially for local teens in grades 6 through 12.

(Source: Medford Twp PR, HMVA)

Dickens Festival - Gingerbread House Contest 2008 - December 5th

Fri, 05 Dec 2008 01:40:46 -0600

In conjunction with the celebration by the Township of Medford of it's 19th annual Dickens Festival, Saturday, Dec. 6th, there will be Gingerbread House contest.

All gingerbread houses that will be submitted for judging must be brought to the judging stations (Genie House at 56 North Main Street, Medford, between 9 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. on Friday, December 5th.

All entries must be made available for display during the Dickens Festival (and then removed by Tuesday, December 9th before 5 p.m.)

Houses must be attached to a 12 inch by 16 inch base (or smaller) and made of edible materials.

Entries will be judged on originality, overall appearance, choice of materials and difficulty of design.

Click here for more details about festival and contest.

Distinguished Office / Retail Building in Historic Medford Village, NJ

Fri, 14 Nov 2008 13:18:27 -0600

Lawrence Yerkes | RE/MAX Suburban | 609-953-1330

33 N. Main Street, Medford, NJ

Distinguished Office/Retail Building in Historic Medford Village. Convenient location with high traffic and plenty of parking.

Single Family House

offered at $595,000

Year Built	1826
Sq Footage	3,200
Floors	3
Parking	Car garage
Lot Size	20,037 sqft
Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

This distinguished property is conveniently located in Medford's Historic District and zoned Historic Village Commercial (HVC). The current owners, over the past 16 years, have lovingly remodeled and upgraded this property while retaining it's historic charm and value. It includes a variance for residential with home office and in-home retail business, allowing a variety of types of usage. It also has a 2nd floor apartment that can be rented out for an additional source of income. The building is designed on the main floor with access to all rooms through a central hallway, allowing separate private offices. One room can be used for a conference / board room or opened with a connecting room for one large meeting area. There is plenty of parking, including on-site, side street and nearby free Town Center Parking lot. Here is a great opportunity to establish your professional and/or retail business on a prestigious corner property with high visibility and traffic.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Distinguished office/retail property is conveniently located in Medford's Historic District

LOCATION FEATURES

Great location with high traffic and visibility.

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

Plenty of off-street private parking as well as nearby public parking.

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

Lawrence Yerkes

RE/MAX Suburban

609-953-1330

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Nov 8, 2008, 2:56pm PST

For More Information About This Property:
http://BestHomes-NJ.com/TR5362265 (Commercial Property)

Visit My Web Sites For Additional Properties and Resources:

http://LawrenceYerkes.com

http://BestHomes-NJ.com (includes Commerical/Investment Properties)

Grand and Distinguished 4 BR, 3.5 BA in Historic Medford Village, NJ

Fri, 14 Nov 2008 13:09:41 -0600

Lawrence Yerkes | RE/MAX Suburban | 609-953-1330

33 North Main Street, Medford, NJ

Grand and distinguished 4 BR, 3BA home in Medford's Historic
Village. Great location!

4BR/3BA Single Family House

offered at $595,000

Year Built	1826
Sq Footage	3,200
Bedrooms	4
Bathrooms	3 full, 0 partial
Floors	3
Parking	4+ Car garage
Lot Size	20,037 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Grand and distinguished have been used to describe this wonderful 4 BR, 3BA home in Medford's Historic Village. The current owners, over the past 16 years, have lovingly remodeled and upgraded this house while retaining it's historic charm and value. In addition to being a comfortable home for living and entertaining, it is also a great investment for those looking for a residential property with in-home office and/or possible retail shop; plus a 2nd floor apartment with separate entrance provides rental opportunities. Plenty of parking, convenient location to excellent schools, sports, shopping, local events and major routes. A new heating system was recently installed. All major applicances are included, so it's ready for you to move in and enjoy.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	Central heat	Fireplace
High/Vaulted ceiling	Walk-in closet	Hardwood floor
Family room	Living room	Bonus/Rec room
Office/Den	Dining room	Breakfast nook
Dishwasher	Refrigerator	Stove/Oven
Microwave	Attic	Basement
Washer	Dryer	Laundry area - inside
Yard

COMMUNITY FEATURES

Garage parking	Guest parking	Business center
Storage space(s)

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

Lovingly remodeled and upgraded while retaining it's historic charm and value.

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

Lawrence Yerkes

RE/MAX Suburban

609-953-1330

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Nov 9, 2008, 12:44am PST

For Additional Information About This Property:
http://BestHomes-NJ.com/TR5362247

Visit My Web Sites For Additional Properties and Resources:

http://LawrenceYerkes.com

http://BestHomes-NJ.com (includes Commerical/Investment Properties)

Medford - Vincentown Rotary Club's Halloween Parade - 2008

Sat, 25 Oct 2008 17:23:40 -0500

The Medford-Vincentown Rotary Club is sponsoring the 62nd Annual Halloween Parade on Main Street in Medford, New Jersey. This weekend, it has been moved, due to rain, to Sunday, October 26, beginning at 7:00 p.m.

The parade will start at at St. Mary's Catholic School and continue up Main Street to the Judges stand located at Main and Trimble.

"Put on your costumes and get ready to celebrate Halloween, Medford-style on Main Street. Kids who dress up are invited to join the parade. Judges are present to hand out prizes for the best costumes. Floats from local organizations make their way down Main Street for our best attended parade of the year. Bring your Trick-or-Treat bags because the candy is plentiful."

This large parade is a popular annual event, held on the Saturday (or Sunday if due to rain) before Halloween, that kids as well as adults look forward to watching and taking part. It includes floats, antique cars, fire squads, fire trucks, costumed marchers and marching bands. You might even see a Mummer or two.   Make sure you come early, as traffic is blocked on main street, and you will want to get a good location so you can watch the parade and your kids can catch candy thrown from floats and vehicles.

Come join the Floats, Bands, Costumed Marchers and many of the local Fire Squads for a great family event.

You and your family will have a great time, don't miss out on it!

Here are some images of the 2006 Medford Halloween Parade

Visit my web site for additional local resources, services and support: LawrenceYerkes.com

and visit Besthomes-NJ.com to shop for the latest New Jersey Real Estate property listings (Residential, Commercial, Multi-Family, Farm, Land).

Copyright 2007 by Lawrence Yerkes. All Rights Reserved.

How Far Can Pumpkins Fly?

Sat, 25 Oct 2008 10:38:01 -0500

A team from the Lumberton and Eastampton Gifted and Talented Parents Group is doing a final testing of Pumpkin Churnkin Machines at Prickett's Farm today between 10 am and 2 pm. [Rain or Shine]

Location: 186 Fostertown Road, Lumberton, NJ (corner of Crispin and Fostertown Roads).

The Prickett's Punkin Chunkers team will than enter these machines in the World Pumkin Chunkin Championships to be held in Seaford, Delaware the following week.

This local event will raise money for ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease)

For a small donation you may be able to launch a pumkin yourself!

Hamburgers, hot dogs, baked goods and drinks will be sold -- all sales benefit the ALS.

Pumpkins will also be available for sale at the Prickett's Farm.

[BTW, the world championship event even has a movie and music videos available: Flying Pumkins - The Legend of Pumpkin Chuckin!]

For real estate resources, help and support services in acquiring or selling properties in New Jersey, Visit my web site: LawrenceYerkes.com

and visit Besthomes-NJ.com to shop for the latest New Jersey Real Estate property listings (Residential, Commercial, Multi-Family, Farm, Land).

Copyright 2008 by Lawrence Yerkes. All Rights Reserved.

Microsoft Provides Critical Security Update For ALL Versions of Windows

Sat, 25 Oct 2008 10:13:55 -0500

According to a recent Microsoft Security Bulletin MS08-067 (with a rating of "Critical"), vulnerability in Windows' Server Service could allow Remote Code Execution (958644).

It is considered so severe that it they have set up special, out of normal cycle, downloadable patches to help close this vulnerability for ALL current versions of MS Windows.

Here are direct links to the most common used by individuals (see security bulleting link above for more download options:

Windows 2000 with Service Pack 4 patch download
Windows XP with Service Pack 2 or 3 patch download
Windows XP 64-bit Edition patch download
Windows Vista with or without Service Pack 1 patch download
Windows Vista 64-bit Edition with or without Service Pack 1 patch download

Forest Fire In Hammonton Township NJ Area of Wharton Forest.

Tue, 21 Oct 2008 16:42:22 -0500

According to breaking news reports, several hundred acres of Wharton Forest in the Hammonton Township area of South New Jersey are on fire along Route 206. A couple hundred fire fighters are currently trying to control and contain the fire from spreading, including building backfires.

This is the first significant fire in the Pinelands area since last August 2007 which involved about 1000 acres burning in the same general area. In May of that same year a huge fire destroyed thousands of acres, homes and forced people to seek emergency shelter (See previous fire article: Forest Fire Threatens New Jersey Pinelands North of Atlantic County, NJ containing additional resource links) around Ocean County.

Will provide updated if this situation expands.

Additional News Links:

Fire Burns in New Jersey Forest Land (ongoing)

10/23: A.C. Press - Forest Fire Holds at 1800 acres Update (10/24)

10/24: CBS 10 - Forest Fire Smoke Causes Problems in South Jersey; Burlington County Times

National Weather Service Fire Weather

For real estate resources, help and support services in acquiring or selling properties in New Jersey, Visit my web site: LawrenceYerkes.com

and visit Besthomes-NJ.com to shop for the latest New Jersey Real Estate property listings (Residential, Commercial, Multi-Family, Farm, Land).

Copyright 2008 by Lawrence Yerkes. All Rights Reserved.

Kirby's Mill Annual Apple Festival 2008 on October 11th

Thu, 02 Oct 2008 13:40:27 -0500

Don't forget to mark you calendars for the upcoming Apple Festival at Kirby's Mill in Medford, NJ. It will be the 30th anniversay of this popular annual event.

Date: October 11, 2008

Time: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

According it's sponsor, the Medford Historical Society, "More than 100 arts and crafts booths welcome visitors. Lively Celtic music by Jennifer Mylod and the Boys of O'cean will set feet tapping. Good food, children's activities and an inflatable Wizard's Castle bounce make it an unforgettable event for the whole family. Get there early to sample the Apple Bake Off entries. For more information, call Bill Stauts at 609-654-5382."

There is plenty to see, eat and do at the festival and surrounding Medford area.

Kirby's Mill is located in South Jersey's Burlington County, northeast of Medford Township at 275 Church Road (on the corner of Church and Fostertown Roads), Medford, NJ.

Realty Reality - Blog Posts - Highlights - September 2008

Wed, 01 Oct 2008 21:56:05 -0500

Here are some of the Realty Reality blog articles that appeared during the past month of September:

NOAA: Keeping Seafood Safe and Plentiful
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has developed a comprehensive Web site that offers valuable information on availability, safety, quality, preparation, and health guidelines for your favorite seafood...

HUD Allocates $4 Billion To Stablize Neighborhoods Hard-Hit By Foreclosures
U.S. Housing and Urban Development Secretary Steve Preston today allocated a total of $3.92 billion to all states and particularly hard-hit areas trying to respond to the effects of high foreclosures....

Housing Crisis Testament to the Destructive Power of Bad Lending Practices
Center For Responsible Lending: Today's housing crisis is a stunning testament to the destructive power of bad lending practices...

Federal Reserve Policy Statement On Equity Investments In Banks
The Federal Reserve Board on Monday announced the approval of a policy statement on equity investments in banks and bank holding companies...

Tax Credit Aids First-Time Homebuyers
First-time homebuyers should begin planning now to take advantage of a new tax credit included in the recently enacted Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008...

Locate Local Gas Stations and Lowest Gas Prices
Wanting to find the local best gas prices in your home town or area in which you are traveling? Then check out the following sites for the locations of gas stations and current pricing...

Hurricane Tracking Resources On the Internet
There are several excellent resources for tracking hurricanes that are available on the Internet. They provide graphics, maps, news and even live video feeds...

Canadians Are Biggest Foreign Buyers of U.S. Homes
The strong Canadian dollar has led many Canadian investors to buy properties in the U.S. The largest proportion of foreign buyers of U.S. homes from May 2007 to May 2008 -- 24% -- were Canadian, double the percentage a year earlier...

Federal Reserve Beige Book September 2008 Report
Reports from the twelve Federal Reserve Districts indicate that the pace of economic activity has been slow in most Districts. Many described business conditions as "weak," "soft," or "subdued." Cleveland and St. Louis reported some weakening since their last reports while Boston and New York noted signs of stabilization. Kansas City reported a slight improvement...

For real estate resources, help and support services in acquiring or selling properties in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, Visit my web site: LawrenceYerkes.com

and visit Besthomes-NJ.com to shop for the latest New Jersey Real Estate property listings (Residential, Commercial, Multi-Family, Farm, Land).

Guidelines and Welcome to the Commercial Real Estate Services and Products Group

Sat, 13 Sep 2008 19:41:23 -0500

Welcome to the ActiveRain Commercial Real Estate Services and Products Group!

This is provided for those that want to announce or find providers of services and/or products related to the Commercial Real Estate Industry. These can include, but are not limited to, Commercial Real Estate agents or franchises, Commercial Loan Brokers or any service provider connected in anyway with Commercial Real Estate.

Note: DO NOT add as comments to this post... instead, create a new blog article(s) about your service/product then continue and follow instructions below...

Only entries related to Commercial Real Estate services and products will be allowed. Title should include a [very] short description of the type of service or product, along with location if appropriate.

Warning: Do not use ALL CAPS in the title as it gives appearance of being spam. They will be automatically removed.

Please feel free to contribute and to make any comments and suggestions about the direction this group should take and the topics for discussion.

Burlington County Year-to-Month Residential Sales Statistics - Through August 2008

Fri, 05 Sep 2008 01:32:20 -0500

When looking at the year-to-month actual statistics (using the most recently completed month of August vs. July, June, May, April, March and January) for Burlington County, the results for residential homes on the market, sold, average price and days for sale before close is charted as follows:

Yr Ending	Units Listed	Units Sold	% Sold	Sold Avg.	Avg. Dom
08/2008	11190	4453	40	$269,695	86
07/2008	11400	4605	40	$271,472	85
06/2008	11582	4759	41	$274,299	84
05/2008	11778	4870	41	$276,912	82
04/2008	12010	4937	41	$277,836	81
03/2008	12125	5045	42	$278,790	80
01/2008	12315	5169	42	$280,022	79

See previous article for prior year 01/200X year-to-date comparisons.

This shows that the trend is still slowly downward, but hopefully will soon begin leveling.

The current inventory is 4185, with an average monthly Sold of 342, yielding a backlog of 12 months to sell off the inventory at current rates of sale.

Camden County Year-to-Month Residential Sales Statistics - Through August 2008

Fri, 05 Sep 2008 01:16:32 -0500

When looking at the year-to-month actual statistics (using the most recently completed month of August vs. July, June, May, April, March and January) for Camden County, the results for residential homes on the market, sold, average price and days for sale before close is charted as follows:

Yr Ending	Units Listed	Units Sold	% Sold	Sold Avg.	Avg. Dom
08/2008	12197	4648	38.1	$212,517	77
07/2008	12406	4849	39.1	$214,633	76
06/2008	12485	4922	39.4	$215,048	75
05/2008	12724	5101	40.1	$214,872	74
04/2008	12979	5264	40.5	$216,593	73
03/2008	13033	5393	41.3	$217,185	72
01/2008	13266	5783	44.0	$217,372	81

See previous article for prior year 01/200X year-to-date comparison.

This shows that while the trend is now slightly downward, it appears that it is attempting to level and hopefully will soon begin to reverse direction.

The current inventory is 4494, with an average monthly Sold of 357, yielding a backlog of 12 months to sell off the inventory at current rates of sale.