Sarah's Blog

Long Branch Invaded By Better Homes

Sarah Bandy (Better Homes Realty) — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 12:28:22 -0500

On Tuesday evening the Jersey Shore looked as if it had been invaded by an army of individuals ready for battle as we all gathered along the shore line dressed in the same uniform, (white shirts and Khaki pants).

On lookers from the board walk stopped and stared and whispered amongst themselves.

As camera and film equipment were elevated high above the sky, the guesses were anything from a family reunion to a movie being filmed.

In reality, Better Homes agents from over 28 offices were on hand to take part in our annual beach party / company picture.

Rooney's Crab House played host for the evening as we gathered afterwards for some fun with friends and co-workers.

For Marilyn and I, it was a chance to introduce ourselves and Better Homes in Colts Neck.

Colts Neck is the latest office to join the BHNJ family.

The backdrop for the evening could not have been any more beautiful.

Hope you enjoy the pictures!

Cheers For Colts Neck

Sarah Bandy (Better Homes Realty) — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 21:30:56 -0500

Does there exist such an idyllic town as the one that housed Cheers?

Is there a place where everyone knows your name?

Absolutely and Colts Neck is it!

Unlike the Cheers bar that was made famous in the 80's sitcom, here in Colts Neck, we have a family restaurant known as Perkins.

With only a little over 12,000 people living in the entire town, it is very easy to bump into your neighbors.

Cooking is one of the talents that have eluded me so needless to say Perkins is my home away from home.

Upon my entry I get the typical "Norm" greeting.

I wish I could say it's just me but the country charm is pressed upon all those that come to visit.

We even have our very own "Cliff Clavin".

Our postal worker Troy doesn't were a post man's uniform but you will see him wearing many different colorful t-shirts.

I almost have him convinced to wear a specially made "Sarah is the best realtor" t-shirt.

For those of you around town, keep your eyes peeled for that!

Countrier Than Colts Neck???

Sarah Bandy (Better Homes Realty) — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 10:39:39 -0500

First and foremost I hope everyone had a fun and relaxing holiday weekend. I'm sure it is always fun to get to see the fireworks and spend time with family and friends.

I am back to work and actually need a vacation from my recent mini-vacation.

My clients whom I absolutely adore invited me over to their home for a pre-4^th of July BBQ.

They were leaving the next day for Costa Rica and wanted to talk with me prior to their departure.

Little did I imagine that the reason behind the invite was to convince me to take full advantage of their vacation home that is located in the Poconos.

"THE POCONOS"? I thought to myself. I can honestly say I don't ever recall going to the Poconos and actually had no desire to go.

I must not have a very good poker face because the wife immediately stated "Oh Sarah, you are going to LOVE it"!

Before I could respond with some excuse, I had a key in one hand and a list of instructions in the other and off I was.

A few days later and 3 hours after I started my adventure, I reached Hemlock Farms , a premier gated community.

Nice! I thought as I pulled into the 4500 acre compound.

Suddenly I heard my navigation state something that it had never said before, "Turn by turn guidance can not be provided at this time".

Were we so far away from civilization that the satellite couldn't pin point our destination? A place countrier than Colts Neck?

The answer was YES!

If the satellite didn't know were we were, how would the police find me if something happened?

The normal person would find that exciting and I actually do too but when you come from a cultural family like mine, all that kept reverberating in my head was my mother stating in her broken English "She had to go", "She just couldn't stay put".

No doubt this was high-end camping but it was still camping none the less, Plus the bears and yes there were bears in the backyard, didn't help put my mind to ease.

The home was actually very adorable. My clients purchased the home fully furnished and each room was typical of the Pocono lifestyle.

As I sat in the backyard contemplating the universe and enjoying the breathtaking scenery I had to admit that it was worth the trip.

Colts Neck And Beyond

Sarah Bandy (Better Homes Realty) — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 12:47:16 -0500

I thought it was tough enough trying to keep up with the housing market in Monmouth County but after a client recently asked about the validity of a web site called Lunar Registry , well, I had to wonder if she was a little spacey herself, literally.

The above web site is the Earth's Leading Lunar Real Estate Agency and for the bargain price of $18.95, you can own an acre of land on the Moon.

Just like with the real estate on Earth, location, location, location will always come into play. A premium lot on the moon can go for as high as $32.00 an acre if you choose to be in the high end section known as "Bay of Rainbows."

I guess with the recent discovery of a possible 10th planet right behind Pluto, it is not unusual that people are starting to look ahead.

Either way, I thought it was a cute idea and makes an interesting gift.

As for me, I'm light years away from getting my realtors license on the moon but can answer any questions you may have regarding Monmouth County real estate right here and now.

Colts Neck Luxury

Sarah Bandy (Better Homes Realty) — Sun, 08 Jun 2008 18:11:09 -0500

Click Here To View Flyer
View Flyer Web Page

Colts Neck Realtor Quote Of The Day

Sarah Bandy (Better Homes Realty) — Wed, 28 May 2008 06:16:15 -0500

As I was leaving New York City via the Lincoln Tunnel, I saw this huge quote painted on the side of a building.

Even though it was an advertisement for Charles Schwab, I felt it was thought provoking enough.

I have shown this picture to many and each person seems to have a different reaction.

What do you think? Any feedback would be greatly appreciated.

Enjoy

24 Hours Away To A New Home

Sarah Bandy (Better Homes Realty) — Sat, 24 May 2008 07:16:46 -0500

Vince Lombardi was quoted as saying "Winning Isn't Everything but...Wanting to Win is".

As a realtor, I work hard to ensure a smooth transaction for all my clients. I Want to score a home run and close every deal, however, some things are out of my control.

Take for example the case of my first time home buyers who were extremely excited to purchase their new home but unfortunately could not get a mortgage commitment from their first mortgage company as promised.

With 48 hours left on their deadline, what were we to do?????

In mythical times we would call upon Sir Lancelot, the greatest and most trusted knight of King Arthur's round table to arrive upon his white horse and save the day.

In today's modern age we call upon Nick Napoletano of Financial Resources to come riding in his black Mercedes and save the deal.

Nick was able to secure a mortgage commitment for our client within 24 hours , thus saving the deal and our sanity.

A June 20th closing date is now confirmed.

The Bandy Group is elated to have been introduced to the Financial Resources Family. We are inspired and energized by Nicks vision and determination and look forward to seeing those same attributes work on future clients behalf to bring them to the top.

A Colts Neck Proposal

Sarah Bandy (Better Homes Realty) — Sat, 17 May 2008 13:23:16 -0500

An engagement ring is worn on the fourth finger of the left hand,

why you may ask????

Because it's a tradition believed to be the finger that houses the vein that leads directly to the heart, better known as the ("Vein of Love").

So when Michael Brenner of Marlboro wanted to propose to Laura Napoliello of Freehold, Michael came directly to Colts Neck New Jersey.

On Saturday May 3^rd, Michael took Laura for a ride in her late father's 1955 T-Bird.

Laura had no idea what was in store for her when they pulled into Illmensee Square, the development that was built by Laura's grandfather.

Across the way, the Colts Neck Cafe housed 25 of Laura's and Michael's family members.

Thanks to blue-tooth technology everyone was able to hear Michael's proposal.

A Fall 2009 wedding is planned.

Congratulations to the beautiful couple!!!

Saying Goodbye To Colts Neck

Sarah Bandy (Better Homes Realty) — Fri, 16 May 2008 09:38:39 -0500

Colts Neck bids farewell to the Eder family.

After 10 years of enjoying the country life, Lois and Todd are now saying goodbye.

When I first placed their home for sale, I was extremely excited to show off the beauty that is 5 Meadows Run Drive, but last Saturday proved to be more difficult for me than for the homeowners.

As I walked through the empty rooms, my eyes welled up with tears. I recalled all the stories of how much they loved raising their family in this home.

I looked at their children's rooms and thought of how quickly time passes by. They were now adults. A son in his third year of college and a daughter about to begin her college years over at the University of Rhode Island.

As the sun beamed against the spot where the sofa once rested, I could still picture Sebastian and Oliver, the family watch dogs, laying and basking in the warmth of the rays as they often did when I was showing the home.

An over abundance of love permeated each room and the only thing better than knowing that my clients were about to embark on a new chapter in their life was that the new homeowners had four young children who no doubt would come to fill this home with their own wonderful memories.

The boys from A Better Choice Moving were fantastic.

Not only did they do an amazing job but they had the tissue boxes on hand and a shoulder to cry on just in case.

Picture Of The Week

Sarah Bandy (Better Homes Realty) — Tue, 06 May 2008 21:45:51 -0500

By itself this picture might raise some eyebrows.

Now combine it with the fact that it was taken in Monmouth County New Jersey.

Propped on a farm on Route 537

Located in horse country known to many as Colts Neck.

Aha.....not so brow raising now, is it?

Enjoy!

Rotten Neighbors In Colts Neck???

Sarah Bandy (Better Homes Realty) — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 21:36:42 -0500

In today's age, there are web-sites dedicated to everything from finding love to confessing your biggest regrets. So it should come as little surprise that there is a web-site especially designed to warn potential home buyers of less than stellar neighbors in a particular neighborhood .

Perri K. Feldman, author of the NJRealEstateWire blog and fellow Keller Williams agent for the Summit New Jersey office wrote a post highlighting this particular site.

Rotten Neighbor.com reveals the quality of neighbors in towns across America.

Does the quality of neighbors affect todays home prices? Absolutely, suggest June Fletcher.

I have to admit that at first I found it quite comical but soon found myself addicted to the site.

The site contained comments on homes with just a few of the following Neighbors:

Crazy Woman
Junk Yard
Hillbilly's
Puff puff...pills berry dough boy

In all fairness, there was a headline entitled AWESOME HOUSE, so it wasn't all bad.

Check it out! See who is being a bad boy/girl in your backyard. Oh and by the way, I did check out my neighbors in Colts Neck. The coast is clear.

New Jersey Realtor Quote Of The Day

Sarah Bandy (Better Homes Realty) — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 05:55:58 -0500

"The Greatest Glory In Living Lies Not In Never Falling.......but In Rising Every Time We Fall"

- Nelson Mandela

Placing The Zen Back In New Jersey Real Estate

Sarah Bandy (Better Homes Realty) — Sun, 20 Apr 2008 13:40:40 -0500

After reading about "Conan" the praying dog, I wondered if I could teach Tyler to sell real estate?

After barely mastering the art of off leash training, I decided to instead write to the doggy lama himself and ask for spiritual enlightenment in the real estate field.

Any real estate prayer requests can be forwarded to The Bandy Group........I mean Conan.

New Jersey Realtor Committed Friday Night

Sarah Bandy (Better Homes Realty) — Mon, 14 Apr 2008 05:54:52 -0500

Mid-Week my cell phone rings and like clock work; it was my 7:30am daily call from my client.

Please do not feel bad for me because yes, I'm actually up and have been since 6am.

It's my usual routine that I have come to enjoy over the past month with her. Nothing out of the ordinary. I drink my coffee and discuss her home as she drives to work and battles the morning commute.

On Wednesday I'm asked the question that no realtor should ever be asked.

I believe If one is doing their job correctly than the following words should never be uttered from a clients mouth.

"Sarah", "Are you a committed realtor?"

My response came quickly. "Absolutely" I stated loud and clear!

My brain didn't have a chance to process a more sophisticated answer. What I really wanted to say was: "have you not read my top ten?"

Then came the question:

"I knew you would say that" she responded, "Can you dog sit on Friday?"

DOG SIT??????

My whole image of the "Realtor Extraordinaire" came down to if I could dog sit or not.

Being the dog lover that I am, how could I refuse.

So there I was Friday night hanging out with two Yorkshire Terriers Sebastian & Oliver plus my two Pomeranians. What a sight!!!

All in all it was fun and I officially get to keep my title of being a committed realtor!

New Jersey Realtors At Play

Sarah Bandy (Better Homes Realty) — Mon, 07 Apr 2008 20:48:39 -0500

I would like to take a moment to thank Jim Ruppert from Countrywide home loans for inviting The Bandy Group to be one of his few special guests at the annual "Spring Fling" celebration hosted by Countrywide.

This Grande event was held at the PNC Bank Arts Center and attended by more than 100 individuals consisting of real estate agents, brokers and vendors.

I would also like to thank all of our new friends from the many real estate agencies throughout Middlesex and Monmouth County for a fantastic night! You guys were so much fun.

(My Cousin Hanne "Jane" Eid of Re/max)

Anna Appolonia & Leanne Lucarelli

Robert DeFalco Realty

I have the pleasure to work with these two top notch agents in my home-town of Colts Neck.

Michael J. Matthews & Ofir Hillel

Orange Key Realty

Other agents having fun in the Orange Key Limo.

Michael showing off his dance moves.

Fern of Countrywide.

You know that we can't do it without you Fern.

You are the go to girl!

Thanks again Jim. You are the best. Can't wait to do it again next year.

Where In The World Is Sarah Bandy?

Sarah Bandy (Better Homes Realty) — Tue, 25 Mar 2008 15:47:35 -0500

I wanted to take a moment and share some photos from my trip.

Today I'm in St. Thomas. It is extremely beautiful here.

The harbor is one of the most visited in the Caribbean.

The views are stunning no matter what direction I point my camera in.

I spotted the helicopter sitting a top of one of the yachts in the harbor

but no need to start her up, I'm only semi-homesick. I'll be back soon enough.

The Colts Neck Chase Begins

Sarah Bandy (Better Homes Realty) — Sat, 15 Mar 2008 21:58:47 -0500

"Come one, come all. Come with the kids, or come as you are."

That calling came from the Chase bank family of Colts Neck.

This newly built branch office conveniently located on route 34 pass Delicious Orchards celebrated their Grande Opening in "Colts Neck Style." today.

Many residents were on hand to show their support.

The Colts Neck Volunteer Fire Company No.2 came out to show their spirit.

JP Morgan Chase, a leading financial institution, continues to strengthen its leadership position by expanding into Monmouth County, New Jersey. Events like today exemplified the bank's commitment to provide a personal touch to their customers needs. Chase employees were on hand to directly field any questions from simple checking issues to financial investments queries.

Large crowds gathered throughout the day to enjoy the elegant free buffet and children were entertained by the very talented balloon artist and the inflatable jungle gym.

Even the Chase Pup was on hand to greet visitors.

Fellow Keller Williams agent Marilyn D'Angelo was the lucky recipient of a hug and kiss from the big dog himself.

Speaking of pups.....Rescue Ridge an all volunteer, non-profit, animal rescue group was on hand to bring to light the need to adopt homeless pets.

Blue skies, great friends, and amazing neighbors.....This is what Colts Neck is all about.

Come chase your dreams to Colts Neck!

The New Jersey Real Estate Misconception

Sarah Bandy (Better Homes Realty) — Fri, 14 Mar 2008 10:12:49 -0500

The other night I was out to dinner with some relatives that are visiting from another country. They flew in for our annual "Family Reunion Cruise." With about 30 people, you can just imagine, it's the yearly vacation you need a vacation from.

As I was sitting at the dinner table I noticed a man staring in my direction. I glanced over and thought maybe we knew each other. His continuing glances then led my EGO to believe....Well, you know, but to clarify matters, NO, he was not staring for that reason.

I am often heard saying that my family is very cultural. This time was no exception. What I realized after carefully examining the pity in his eyes is that he was under the misconception that I was getting yelled at. Why would he think that you may ask?

Culturally there are traits that are common to a particular group. My family's are that they are very loud individuals. All this poor man could think was that I was getting yelled at by a bunch of older people speaking in a foreign language.

I came to the conclusion that misconceptions can translate to many areas including the real estate industry.

With home buyers making extremely low offers based upon the medias overall assessment of the current real estate market, buyers are not realizing that real estate is a local industry. They are under the misconception that they can offer 50 to 100 thousand off the asking price and get an accepted offer.

Monmouth County's real estate has seen an increase in sales and is continuing to pick up. Homes that are priced correctly are actually seeing multiple offers come in.

Do not be drawn into the hysteria that the media portrays. Speak with a real estate professional that can help guide you locally, this way there will be no misconceptions.

Live The Colts Neck Dream

Sarah Bandy (Better Homes Realty) — Sat, 08 Mar 2008 09:30:45 -0600

Live The Dream

Location: The Ridings

This is your chance to own a truly magnificent home at "The Ridings",one of the most coveted developments in Colts Neck, NJ. Once you open the doors and enter the dramatic 30ft. entrance you will know that you have found your dream estate. This spectacular & spacious home boasts over 6000sft.of visionary architecture and is truly a designer show place. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's delight with a huge oversized center island, sub-zero refrigerator & stainless steel appliances. Details include,private master retreat, gleaming hardwood floors,custom moldings & a 2500sft walkout lower level leading to pool & spa and several outdoor entertaining areas. Perfection Awaits you, don't miss out.

Information

Contact Information

Fedua "Sarah" Bandy

732.505.1101

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Pricing

Asking Price: $1,699,000

Flexibility: Negotiable

Property Location

Colts Neck , New Jersey 07722
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Links

Tyler's Dog Blog

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Features

Bedrooms: 5

Bathrooms: 5.5

Year Built: 1998

Subdivision: The Ridings

Lot Size: 1.26

Garage Size: 4

School District: Colts Neck

Square Footage: 6094

Agent Name: Sarah Bandy

Broker: Keller Williams Realty Jersey Shore

MLS #: 20809355

Attributes

Appliances

Range/Oven

Full Refrigerator

Washer/Dryer

Dishwasher

Microwave

Central Vacuum

Interior Amenities

Fireplace

Hardwood Floors

Wet Bar

Security System

Kitchen Island

Vaulted Ceilings

Basement

Attic

Exterior Amenities

Patio

Fenced Yard

Swimming Pool

Jacuzzi

Grass Lawn

Secluded setting

Photo Gallery

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Equal Housing Opportunity

VFLYER ID: 1540760

New Jersey's Realtor Quote Of The Day

Sarah Bandy (Better Homes Realty) — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 13:38:20 -0600

"Plenty of people miss their share of happiness, Not because they never found it, but because they didn't stop to enjoy it."

_ William Feather

Colts Neck Pancake's Are Made With Love

Sarah Bandy (Better Homes Realty) — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 06:14:23 -0600

The Men's Ministry is holding a "Pancake Breakfast" to Benefit the Colts Neck First Aid Squad.

Believe me when I tell you that their pancake's will look better than these. I just wanted to show you what it would look like if they allowed me to cook.

If you want to have a great breakfast, meet some wonderful people and help a great cause than don't miss out!

DATE: Saturday, March 15^th 2008

TIME: 8:00am to 11:00am

PLACE: Colts Neck Community Church

COST: $5 per person or $20 for a family of 4+

See you there!

Is Tyler A Real Dog?

Sarah Bandy (Better Homes Realty) — Mon, 18 Feb 2008 08:19:21 -0600

When it comes to the Westminster Dog Show of the blogosphere world, Tyler Talk a lot is definitely top dog.

Coming off its current win at the Carnival of Real Estate, not including December's 2007's win, being Posh'd and having our "Staging Your New Jersey Home" post singled out for use in one of their month's issue's of 411 Real Estate Place, is just a few of the prizes that keeps Tyler barking to write more.

My only objective in giving Tyler a voice was to create "Buzz" around my home town of Colts Neck, New Jersey and among potential home buyers, sellers and other referring Keller Williams agents from around the country.

My mission was to better prepare homeowners to handle the current real estate market by writing about such topics as:

Increasing Property Value
How to Reduce Days on Market
Current Market Reports

Plus give consumers the freedom to ask a question if something was on their minds. I am often heard telling my clients "No question is a dumb question", but I have to smile because my most frequently asked question is, "Is Tyler A Real Dog?"..... With an overflowing pantry of dog bones, I think that alone should be proof enough of Tyler's existence.

Thank you to all for your kind words and comments. I am sincerely humbled by it all.

New Jersey's Realtor Quote Of The Day

Sarah Bandy (Better Homes Realty) — Sat, 16 Feb 2008 12:31:41 -0600

"If Life Hands You a Lemon, Don't Complain, But Instead Make Lemonade To Sell To Those That Are Thirsty From Complaining"

(Napoleon Hill Foundation)

Beat Others To Hot New Listings

Sarah Bandy (Better Homes Realty) — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 11:56:04 -0600

How would you like to stay on top of the Real Estate market?

Be the first to find out about hot new listings in your market. The Bandy Group will send you a Free automatic Emails sent directly to your inbox with all new listings that match your Home Search Criteria.

You will be amazed at how easy this service makes it to find the home of your dreams.

Please feel free to contact Sarah directly @ 732.407.5713

Beat Others To Hot New Listings

Sarah Bandy (Better Homes Realty) — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 11:43:23 -0600

How would you like to stay on top of the Real Estate market?

You will be amazed at how easy this service makes it to find the home of your dreams.

Please feel free to contact Sarah directly @ 732.407.5713