Shannon Aronson Short Hills Millburn Real Estate Agent 's Blog

Millburn/Short Hills Youth Become Finalists in Siemens “We Can Change the World Challenge"

Thu, 11 Jun 2009 16:25:20 -0700

Children and young adults enrolled in the Millburn public school district tend to be extremely successful individuals bent on improving the world in a variety of creative ways. Three such students are: Brannon Cho, Erik Lamp and Nils Sohn. Cho, Lamp and Sohn were state finalists in the Siemens "We Can Change the World" challenge (siemens.discoveryeducation.com). These three dedicated individuals researched the Norway maple tree and discovered that it was hazardous to other plant life because of the inky, unusual shadow its branches cast over them, preventing the other plants from absorbing sunlight. The tree is not native to the area, yet the three young men noticed that it was prevalent in the Poet section and the South Mountain Reservation. Calling themselves the Team Millburn Mustangs, Cho, Lamp and Sohn made a street distribution. The street distribution pointed out where Norway maples and other trees are concentrated in the township, and is now used as a reference for Millburn’s forester Tom Doty. Advised by Doty and Millburn Middle School teacher Michelle Cho, the students weathered the cold and rain to walk around these neighborhoods, leaving surveys in biodegradable bags for residents asking if they would be willing to replace their Norway maples with native trees that would be provided by the Shade Tree department. The boys’ efforts did not go unnoticed. A whopping 87% of the residents acquiesced. The township of Millburn/Short Hills is very appealing to potential new home owners interested in investing in real estate in the New Jersey area because of efforts such as these.

The Junior League of the Oranges and Short Hills – Helping Kids Get Healthy

Tue, 09 Jun 2009 16:50:11 -0700

The township of Millburn/Short Hills is very attractive to potential new home owners. The public high school is rated to be the number one high school in the state of New Jersey, sending 99% of its graduates to colleges and universities around the country. The alumni of Millburn/Short Hills public schools are always looking for opportunities to go above and beyond. Community youth groups do a lot of good for the township and people in need. One such community youth group is the Junior League of the Oranges and Short Hills. The Junior League of the Oranges and Short Hills has new members who have recently participated in their first of many future volunteer projects. Gail Davis, Loren Balady, Liz Harter, Michele Shapard, Katherine Eklund, Lynnn Rothenberg, Kara Lawler, Mary Grossman and Melissa Sheehy, Legh Garrett, Sock Wang and Adriana Johnson, Lynda Bradley and Kathryn Wile all enjoyed teaching children about the importance of healthy foods and fitness during their first project. The Junior League of the Oranges and Short Hills organized two special events with games, quizzes, activities and giveaways for more than 100 children during Healthy Kids Day. The special events took place at the East Orange YMCA. The two free events were part of the Junior League’s initiative "Kids in the Kitchen." The “Kids in the Kitchen” initiative’s goal is to help to reverse the growth of childhood obesity and the health issues associated with it by encouraging eating healthy foods and exercising. Opportunities for children, like participating in the Junior League of the Oranges and Short Hills attract many potential new home owners to the township of Millburn/Short Hills. These potential new home owners want to invest in real estate in a place where there children can grow and flourish while learning about the importance of helping others.

Millburn High School Student Aids in the Fight Against Eating Disorders

Sat, 30 May 2009 09:40:00 -0700

The township of Millburn/Short Hills is a very popular location for potential new home owners who are also parents. Potential new home owners with children are often interested in investing in real estate in the township of Millburn/Short Hills because they want their children to be surrounded by other intelligent, motivated and conscientious young people. The township of Millburn/Short Hills is well known for having intelligent, active and caring youth. An example of a Millburn high school student fitting this description is Danielle Alonzi. Alzoni organized a walk for the National Eating Disorders Association that was held on May 24, 2009 at the Millburn High School outdoor track. Specialists from NEDA (www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/) were on site to answer questions about eating disorders like anorexia nervosa and bulimia. They advised participants about how to recognize an eating disorder, when and how it is appropriate for friends and family members to intervene and try to help. In addition they also provided information about what treatment options are available for individuals suffering from eating disorders, and the ideal ways to bring treatment and help to people seeking assistance. As the weather gets warmer, the pressure to look thin increases and some people’s diets can get extremely out of hand. People with eating disorders often present with body dysmorphia, which is a lack of understanding of how their bodies appear to the outside world. They think they look overweight when in fact they are too thin to be healthy. If you are interested in sponsoring someone participating in a NEDA walk, you can visit: www.njnedawalk.com. Students like Alzoni are what make the township of Millburn/Short Hills unique—and especially attractive to potential property investors.

Mystery Writer from Millburn/Short Hills Nominated for 2009 Edgar Award

Thu, 30 Apr 2009 17:05:19 -0700

The township of Millburn/Short Hills attracts a wide variety of interesting and talented potential new home owners. Perhaps the diverse and fascinating community harbored in the township of Millburn/Short Hills has something to do with that. Township residents are perpetually being recognized for various acts of kindness or professional accomplishments. Township resident Leonard Cassuto is no exception. Cassuto, an author who focuses on the genre of mystery, was recently nominated by The Mystery Writers of America to receive an Edgar Award. Often referred to as the “Oscars” of the mystery genre, the Edgar Awards (named after Edgar Allen Poe), are a huge honor. Cassuto has been nominated for a 2009 Edgar Award in the category of Best Critical/Autobiographical for his book, "Hard-Boiled Sentimentality." Cassuto worked on the book for about a decade. Ever since he was a young child, Cassuto has loved crime novels. His interest in the project stemmed from his curiosity about the unusual character of the serial killer. "Hard-Boiled Sentimentality" looks at the American crime genre throughout history, following the changes and variations. Cassuto is a professor of English at Fordham University where he says he uses the classroom as a sort of laboratory environment to test out his ideas. Township residents like Cassuto are a considerable part of what makes the township of Millburn/Short Hills so uniquely appealing to potential new home owners.

SHort Hills/Millburn Community - Danielle Brender Fund

Tue, 10 Mar 2009 14:03:21 -0700

The township of Millburn-Short Hills is an ever-popular hot spot for potential new homeowners. As a resident and a Realtor of Millburn-Short Hills, I am in a unique position to understand all of the drawing powers of this desirable community. While Millburn-Short Hills is first thought of as an affluent town, it is often overlooked that residents of Millburn-Short Hills are genuinely committed to community service. The Brender family, well known throughout the community, exemplifies the generous, selfless spirit of many township residents.

The Danielle Brender fund, along with the Millburn-Short Hills Chapter of the American Red Cross, held the eighth annual Community Mass Training Course in CPR/AED last week. The event was wall attended-over 200 people came to be trained at Millburn High School. The Danielle Brender fund is an organization that was founded by Sharon and Avi Brender. The Brenders created the organization in memory of their 11-year-old daughter, Danielle. Danielle was an ostensibly healthy young girl who died of a sudden cardiac arrest in 2000. The cardiac arrest was attributed to Long QT Syndrome, which is an electrical disturbance in the heart. Since then the Brenders have raised enough donations to attain automated external defibrillators (AEDs) for each public school in the township and also enough money for the Red Cross to provide for the CPR and AED training. The annual training event is free to all participants, but the cost for holding the event has risen to over $11,000. The Brenders hold an annual fund-raiser in their home each fall, but donations are necessary to keep the program running. Interested parties may make their donations to the Danielle Brender Fund, Inc., P.O. Box 766 Millburn 07041. Additional information can be found by calling 973-379-9375.

Families like the Brenders who raise hope from hardship are an integral part of what makes the Township of Millburn-Short Hills a vibrant and desirable community. Efforts like theirs are a huge part of what attracts potential new homeowners to the area.

Short Hills & Millburn New Jersey - Annual Intergenerational Winter Party

Tue, 10 Mar 2009 14:01:10 -0700

The township of Millburn-Short Hills is a very popular place for potential new homeowners to look. Millburn-Short Hills is renowned for its top ranking public school district, the close proximity to Manhattan and strong property values. Despite its reputation as a very affluent town, Millburn-Short Hills also boasts a small town, neighborly feel and has a long history of community service, the foundation of which starts with its youngest residents.

Several members of the Millburn High School band gave a performance for senior citizens at the annual intergenerational winter party. Alex Sugarman and Kelly Blumenthal were involved in the Band performance and were featured in the local paper for their sincere efforts. Along with Sugarman and Blumenthal were members of Students Offering Service after the party: Ashley Shepard, Robert Vaters, Dan Griffith and Angela Hou. The gathering was held in conjunction with the Township Senior Citizens Coordinator's office. It took place in the high school cafeteria on Thursday, February 12, 2009.

Millburn-Short Hills students work hard both scholastically and for the good of the community benefitting all residents. Perhaps the township's most valuable feature for newcomers is the opportunity to be part of a vibrant, genuine and hard working community.

Blog provided by Shannon Aronson a Keller-Williams top Short Hills/Millburn Real Estate agent.

Real Estate Activity in Short Hills/Millburn New Jersey

Wed, 11 Feb 2009 22:50:06 -0800

Continuing on the heels of a busy January, the Short Hills/Millburn real estate market continue to shows signs of increasing activity during the first half of February.

So far this month, 6 homes have gone under contract. These homes range in price from $749,000 to $1,495,000. These homes were on the market for an average of 79.5 days before a contract was signed, which is somewhat longer than the average during the last few months. The median price of these homes is $950,000.

There have been 3 homes that have sold so far in February. They are 408 Wyoming Avenue (sold for $535,000), 100 Oakview Terrace (sold for $781,000) and 315 Lupine Way (sold for $969,000). These homes sold at an average of 99% of the asking price and were on the market an average of 55 days before going under contract.

February has seen 17 new homes come on the market in the first 11 days of the month. This is a slight increase over the amount of new inventory we have seen in recent months. At present there are 87 homes being marketed on the Garden State Multiple Listing Service. It is interesting to note that 8 of these new listings are being marketed at over $1.5 million and 3 of those are over the $3 million mark. There are 9 new homes under $1 million, which has remained a fairly strong segment of the market.

As always, sellers continue to need to refine their expectations in pricing their homes. So far this month, 9 home sellers have become more aggressive with their pricing, dropping their prices on average 5.9%.

This report was prepared by Shannon Aronson a Real Estate Agent in Short Hills and Millburn New Jersey.

Good News for Home Sellers

Tue, 03 Feb 2009 23:20:06 -0800

January proved to be a good month for those residents of Millburn and Short Hills who have been trying to sell their homes. In contrast to a very slow fourth quarter in 2008, the first month of 2009 showed a tremendous increase in real estate activity.

While January is typically a very slow month in the real estate world, fifteen homes went under contract to be sold during January of this year. This is a dramatic increase over each of the previous 3 months, in fact it is double. In October 2008, 8 homes went under contract. In November 2008, only 7 homes found buyers, and in December, only 7 homes brought contracts for sale.

Equally impressive is that homes in all price ranges were moving in January. During this month alone, 3 homes over $2 million, and one house over $4 million went under contract. In the previous 3 months combine only one home over $2 million found a buyer.

The amount of inventory for home buyers to consider crept up only slightly in January. There are currently 83 homes for sale. These remains very low, historically, although is up from 74 homes on the market at the end of 2008.

Home buyers are continuing to gain an edge in negotiating pricing. Of the homes that actually sold in January, buyers were able to secure a price at 95.1% of what sellers were asking. This continues a downward trend in the ratio between selling price vs. asking price. This is down from 96.7% in 2008 and 97.9% in 2007. The average home that sold in January 2009 was on the market for 64.5 days before going under contract. This remained fairly consistent with 2008 averages.

The most expensive home to be sold in January was at 91 Fairfield Drive. This home sold for $2,600,000 in just 32 days. This is impressive as homes in the upper price ranges typically take much longer to sell.

The report is provided by Shannon Aronson a Keller Williams Real Estate Agent in the Millburn, Short Hills, Summit and other surounding towns in New Jersey.

World Tour of Wine

Mon, 02 Feb 2009 08:36:52 -0800

The township of Millburn/Short Hills consistently attracts new home owners with its wide variety of community events. My experience as a realtor in this area has shown me that potential new home owners are interested in investing in property in areas that provide unusual and exciting opportunities for them to meet new people and participate in causes that they support. New Eyes for the Needy is one of the many organizations that creates exciting events that draw the attention of potential new home owners.

Millburn's New Eyes for the Needy is going to be hosting a 2009 gala event. The event is titled the "World Tour of Wine," and will be held on Saturday, Feb. 7, at the Beacon Hill Club in Summit. The event is being sponsored by Investors Savings Bank. Investors Savings Bank is going to be venerated for its investment in and support of the communities throughout the state of New Jersey. Connie Fowler of "Let's Have a Taste," will be leading the wine tasting. Fowler is going to pair 50 different wines with an assortment of local delicacies. Victoria Cannizzo will be providing musical entertainment, and Assemblyman Jon Bramnick is going to be the auctioneer for the event. Items that Bramnick will auction for the guests of the gala consist of a Jets football signed by Brett Favre, a cruise on the Hudson River and tickets to "Live with Regis and Kelly" and "Saturday Night Live." All proceeds from the gala are going to benefits New Eyes for the Needy, which is based in the township of Millburn/Short Hills and is a non-profit organization. New Eyes for the Needy has dedicated itself to providing proper eyewear to people in the United States and around the globe, and have already assisted over 7 million people with their purchases of new eyeglasses and recycled glasses that they have donated to other countries. For ticket information, call 973-376-4908.

Events like the New Eyes for the Needy gala event keep the township of Millburn/Short Hills interesting to potential new home owners. It is no surprise that people would want to reside in a township that holds exciting charity events and supports organizations as worthwhile as New Eyes for the Needy.

Impressive Millburn Youth Organizes A Capella Competition and Fundraiser

Mon, 02 Feb 2009 08:35:37 -0800

The township of Millburn/Short Hills is well known for many reasons. The blue ribbon award winning High School that sends more than 97% of its students to four year universities is one reason. The gorgeous properties and fine homes are another appealing feature, along with the historic monuments such as the Paper Mill Playhouse and Greenwood Gardens. These factors are all well and good, but what really makes the township of Millburn/Short Hills appeal to potential new home owners and impress people across the state is the tenacity and values of its residents.

One such resident, Dennis Yu, along with the help of Kelly Blumenthal, is organizing a state wide A Capella competition for young people in order to raise money for an educational program that will supply compact discs of choral music to high school singing groups who have been affected by recent budget cuts in these fiscally difficult times. Yu's competition would raise funds for "Tunes for Teens." Tunes for Teens is a division of the Contemporary A Cappella Society of America. The Contemporary A Capella Society of America seeks to distribute compact discs of choral performances for high school choruses, free of charge. The compact discs are donated by singers, educators and composers who seek to provide student access to modern a cappella music.

Yu's determination to persevere in the face of budget cuts is typical of the Millburn/Short Hills township spirit. Most high school seniors would be working away on their college applications instead of searching for alternative sources of discs. Potential new home owners are always interested in purchasing property in the township that nurtures such gumption, creativity and resourcefulness in its young people.

Tuskegee Airman from Millburn/Short Hills Invited to Witness Inauguration

Mon, 02 Feb 2009 08:34:25 -0800

The township of Millburn/Short Hills is a beautiful and impressive area that holds many appealing factors for potential new home owners and is an excellent place for families to flourish. The high school is rated number one in the entire state of New Jersey. The surrounding towns such as Maplewood, Livingston, and South Orange are all beautiful and provide many opportunities for exciting dining, socializing and community service activities. The natural beauty of the area is unquestionable, with well known attractions such as the South Mountain Reservation and Greenwood Gardens. While all of these factors are appealing for potential new home owners, what really grabs many new residents is the diverse and impressive community.

Resident William Neal Brown is one very interesting member of the community, whose invitation to attend the inauguration of Barack Obama was especially satisfying. Brown is the grandson of a former slave. During his youth, he served the United States of America as a member of the venerated and renowned Tuskegee Airmen. The Tuskegee Airmen were African-Americans that overcame segregation during World War II and became an elite fighter pilot corps. A decade after World War II's closure, Brown continued to fight segregation by becoming the very first African American Professor to grace the halls of Rutgers University. Brown who is approaching 90 years of age thought that he would never live to see the day that a black man would be elected president. He and a dozen of the Tuskegee Airman who live in New Jersey gathered at McGuire Air Force Base for the inauguration and witnessed a very fitting kind of closure to their efforts.

The town of Millburn/Short Hills attracts a wide variety of remarkable individuals. It is no wonder that potential new home owners would be interested in investing in property in this widely respected, diverse area.

Millburn / Short Hills Sponsors Red Cross Blood Drive

Tue, 27 Jan 2009 20:11:37 -0800

Property in the township of Millburn/Short Hills is coveted because it encourages families to take advantage of the many opportunities the township has to offer. The township is convenient for commuters with train stations in both Millburn and Short Hills. The public schools provide top quality education for students. The trendy Mall at Short Hills is frequently found in the pages of Vogue magazine. With all of these benefits, it would seem that the reasons why new home owners flock to the township of Millburn/Short Hills would be clear, but the real reason that new home owners want to invest in property in Millburn and Short Hills is because they yearn to be a part of a community with a deeply caring heart.

The Red Cross Chapter of Millburn/Short Hills reflects the generosity of the community members. At the last blood drive, Ninety-three people volunteered to donate blood. On Saturday January 31, there will be another Red Cross blood drive held from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm at the Millburn Free Public Library.

A big thank you goes out to the generous and caring individuals who participated in the blood drive: Christie Adelman, Wendy Alexander, David Aman, Bob and Peggy Arnold, Marc Bachman, Susan Basarab, Joseph Basili, Calvin Beatty, Jeffrey Beckerman, Laura Bencivenga, Roberta Berman, Barbara and Emily Bick, Cherill and Paul Boegershausen, Innes Borstel, James Brady, Peter Brookes and Jon Budish; Shail Busbey, Bruce Cantor, Derek Capanna, Mark Carano, Harry Charnley, Laura Christian, Brian Connaughton, Sam Cynamon, Robert Daley, Kent Daniel, Neil DeVita, Paul Draben, Nancy Durando, Adam Eagle, Gerald Eisenberger, Edward Fears, Herbert Fisher, Paul Funk, Karen Gaylord, Michael Gengos, David Graziano, Nino Grgec, Ernest Gsell, Arlene Halley-Wiggs and Owen Harnew; Stephen and Nicholas Hellmuth, Susan Henry, Deborah Hill, James Hornecker, Scott Horowitz, Jonathan James, Frank Johnson, Warren Josephson, Robert Kaye, Ellen Kirkwood, Mario Konrad, Elizabeth Kreutz, Rajeev Laghate, Amy Lauterjung, Debra Lebersfeld, Richard Lechtman, Edward Leh, Daniel and Kathleen Mandel, Eric Maurer, Richard Meth, Emily Meyerowitz, Ida Mills and Beth Nalitt; Jamie Ostroff, Courtney Pittenger, Linda Postell, Annamarie Prinsloo, Alexandra Rappaport, Jeremy Reidenberg, Katrina, Mary and Victoria Rennie, Patricia Robinson, Tamar Roodner, Cathy Russo, Joanna Rysnik, Stephen Sacks, June Schechner, Steven Seigel, Jennifer Sissman, Kim Spar, Peter Steck, Andrew Taitel, Kenneth Udland, Virginia Wilson and Karen Worthing.

Each individual listed is an independent reason for new home owners to invest in property in the township of Millburn/Short Hills. They all embody and reflect the values of a strong and caring community who consistently do everything in their power to work for a greater good. Any new home owner would be lucky to live in a township that attracts and sustains these kinds of people.

Short Hills/Millburn Community - Making the Difference

Tue, 27 Jan 2009 20:08:57 -0800

The township of Millburn/Short Hills has always attracted potential new home owners. The Blue Ribbon Award winning number one high school in the state, elegant homes and spacious properties are all some of the draws to investing in real estate in the township of Millburn/Short Hills, but what the township has that makes it truly unique are the community members themselves. Members of the Millburn/Short Hills community are known for taking care of each other and making efforts to better the world around them. Dr. Mark Zucker is one such community member.

Around town he is respected as a member of the Board of Education, but at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, his respect comes from a different job. On November 20, the Millburn/Short Hills resident was honored at a party at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, along with his heart transplant team, for completing their 500th heart transplant this past fall. Also in attendance were 81 of the team's patients, who wanted to express their gratitude. The Newark Beth Israel Medical Center transplant team is one of the busiest in the entire nation. Under Zucker's leadership, the medical center completes roughly 40 heart transplants every year.

Dr. Zucker's achievement is an honor to him and everyone in his community. It is no surprise that potential new home owners would want to invest in real estate in a community like that of Millburn/Short Hills, which supports those making a positive difference in the world.

Community Care Millburn New Jersey

Wed, 21 Jan 2009 18:50:57 -0800

As a real estate agent in the township of Millburn/Short Hills, I know that property here is very popular for new home owners for a variety of reasons. In addition to an unbeatable education, residents of the township of Millburn/Short Hills provide a uniquely caring and attentive community for new and current home owners alike. Not only does the community care about each other, but they care about important causes that impact everyone, and take active steps to improve the world around them as well as the community in which they reside.

Residents use all of the resources at their disposal to help heal the world. In this fashion, the Weisman brothers are using their massaging skills to help in the fight against cancer. Bob and Jeff Weisman, both Millburn High School Graduates, went directly from Millburn High School to the New Jersey franchise of Massage Envy, which is a chain of massage therapy clinics. On September 22, 2008, a few weeks before the beginning of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, all 19 of the Massage Envy clinics gave free massages, and asked all their visitors to make a donation to the Susan G. Komen foundation in lieu of payment. The Susan G. Komen Foundation is a national foundation that supports research for a cure for breast cancer. The Massage Envy Clinics raised a stunning $65,000, far exceeding their $50,000 goal.

New home owners are eager to reside in a community that is selfless enough to promote events such as the Massage Day for Breast Cancer research.

Short Hills/Millburn School System

Wed, 21 Jan 2009 18:49:08 -0800

Potential new home owners are always curious to learn more about the township of Millburn/Short Hills. The township is widely known for the impressive array of options that it provides for residents. While the natural beauty, stunning properties and exciting venues provided by the township draw many potential new home owners, what people admire most often about the town is the school system. Millburn High School is currently ranked number 1 in the state. The students of Millburn High School do not only boast academic accomplishments, but recreational ones as well. Tyler Udland is a student who recently made history for his high school.

Tyler Udland attended the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association Meet of Champions race at Holmdel Park, and he won. The school's very first Meet of Champions winner, Udland won the race title with his time of 15:39.93. Udland explained that this might be the best year in New Jersey Cross Country history, and he was extremely excited. Although during his first mile he was bunched closely with runners from West Windsor Plainsboro-North and Morris Hills, he overtook his competition shortly after.

Udland is an example of why property sells so quickly in the township of Millburn/Short Hills. Potential new home owners are eager to provide their children with the opportunity to shine.

Shannon Aronson a real estate agent for Short Hills, Millburn, Summit and surounding towns in New Jersey.

New Jersey PAIRS Program

Sun, 11 Jan 2009 09:29:22 -0800

Real estate in the township of Millburn/Short Hills is extremely successful right now. There are many aspects of the township that attract new homeowners. As a real estate agent in Millburn/Short Hills I know that some of the big draws to the township are gorgeous houses, a beautiful natural landscape, a caring community and a Blue Ribbon Award winning school system. The school system in the township of Millburn/Short Hills is widely venerated for the academic achievements that its students are legendary for making. In addition, volunteer work among students, as well as among adult township residents, is a central part to the school system and the values it instills in its students.

Millburn High School was one of only 13 schools that were honored this spring for creative special education programming in the New Jersey School Board's seventh annual Innovations in Special Education program. Millburn High School was recognized for the accomplishments made with the ECLC of New Jersey PAIRS program. "PAIRS" is an acronym that stands for "Partners in After-school Inclusive Recreation for Special Needs". The PAIRS program was designed to integrate special needs and non-special needs students in order to benefit both groups. ECLC of New Jersey is a state approved private school for children with substantial disabilities. ECLC has formed a partnership with the PAIRS Club at Millburn High School. The high school students organize and execute a weekly evening basketball clinic for ECLC students between the ages of 12 and 21. The first 60 minutes are for basketball drills and practice, and the last 30 minutes are for interaction between the students with refreshment and fun activities like bingo and dancing.

The PAIRS program within the high school is a reflection of the community's priorities and values. New homeowners are of course eager to move to a town that teaches such respectable values to its youth and is commended for its excellent accomplishments by the state.

Petite Ecole Millburn & Short Hills

Fri, 09 Jan 2009 07:06:20 -0800

The Blue-Ribbon Award winning, number one high school in the state, Millburn Senior High School may teach the basics of math and science, but the knowledge that residents share in the township of Millburn/Short Hills is a deep understanding of culture. Perhaps it is the proximity to New York City that makes property owners in the township of Millburn/Short Hills so aware of culture and global trends. One way in which community members share culture with each other is through Janice Cummins Petite Ecole.

Janice Cummins Petite Ecole is a French language school that was established roughly thirty years ago. She has been located at 321 Millburn Avenue in the heart of the town of Millburn since 1981. Cummin's language school was one of the very first French language schools available to children that was inspected and endorsed by the Cultural Services of the French Embassy in New York. Cummins has a degree in French language and literature, along with experiences as a foreign language teacher at the secondary level, and she wanted her two children to learn French. Cummins explained that she was inspired to create the school thirty years ago when there were not many opportunities present for young children to study another language.

Cummin's excellent institution is a wonderful reflection of the values endorsed by the community of education and cultural understanding. New homeowners will appreciate that property in the township of Millburn/Short Hills comes with residents who will seek to broaden their cultural boundaries.

For more information on Millburn/Short Hills Real Estate and community please visit us at: www.shannonaronson.com

Unique Architecture of Millburn/Short Hills Township

Wed, 07 Jan 2009 17:14:36 -0800

A reason why real estate in Millburn/Short Hills is so popular amongst new homeowners right now is that residing and working in the township of Millburn/Short Hills has many perks and benefits. One of these benefits is that homeowners will be surrounded by beautiful property and nature. Township architect Thomas Baio is responsible for a great deal of this beauty.

Baio was recently chosen to be featured in the annual "Leading Residential Architects" publication. "Leading Residential Architects" is compiled by Sandow Media, known for their publication of "The Perfect Home" book series. "Leading Residential Architects" selects and displays the work of 30 architects who have exhibited cutting edge design trends. Baio's architectural design is described as "work demonstrating a thorough grasp of architectural precedent". Baio drew his inspiration from historical building forms for his design. At the conclusion of the book, the writers describe Baio as well as his staff to be "remain(ing) committed to historically recognizable, refreshingly distinct architecture with modern vitality". In order to learn more about the architecture of Thomas Baio and the township of Millburn/Short Hills, potential new homeowners can visit his website at www.thomasbaioarchitect.com.

The respect for history demonstrated by Baio and his construction in the township of Millburn/Short Hills speaks to how the community values history. It also suggests another reason why property in the township of Millburn/Short Hills is so ardently sought after by potential new homeowners.

New Stores in Livingston Appeal to Residents of Millburn/Short Hills

Sat, 03 Jan 2009 14:51:11 -0800

One of the reasons why property in Millburn/Short Hills is so coveted in this area is because of the prime location. Short Hills was the very first town built as a commuter town for people who wanted to work in New York City but reside in the suburbs of New Jersey. Now there are other advantages to the area as well. The township of Millburn/Short Hills is surrounded by other attractive townships that have much to offer Millburn/Short Hills residents. One of these townships is Livingston.

Two new shops in the Livingston area are attracting residents of the township of Millburn/Short Hills. A store called "Duet" located at 79 South Livingston Avenue has become very popular. Duet is a luxury "re-saler" and features top designers like Hermes, Gucci, Chanel, and Cartier at fractions of their original prices. "The Wine Room of Livingston" is another popular new store. At The Wine Room customers can learn the art of winemaking, by studying a business that combines traditional winemaking, modern science, and a love for wines. Students can create their own half or whole barrels of wine, which is the equivalent of 10 to 20 cases. In addition to catering to oenophiles, the Wine Room is also an excellent place for corporations that are looking for team-building events or unique gifts for clients, as well as couples who would like to provide custom wine for wedding favors.

Livingston is one of the many townships surrounding Millburn/Short Hills that makes property in the area so desirable. Millburn/Short Hills certainly has many impressive shops to offer residents, but since it is so easy to find new and refreshing shops in neighboring towns as well, residents never tire of the area.

Millburn’s Opportunity Project Empowers Individuals with Brain Injuries

Sun, 28 Dec 2008 16:57:54 -0800

Residents of the township of Millburn/Short Hills are very fortunate individuals. They live in a township brimming with beautiful properties and homes. There is a wide variety of interesting shops and opportunities to enjoy. The high school won the blue ribbon award and is widely considered one of the best educational institutions in the state.

Something that I find to be extraordinary and refreshing about Millburn/Short Hills residents is that they know how lucky they are and consistently look for ways to give back to the community and assist others who may not be as fortunate. One of the ways that they do this is through the Opportunity Project in Millburn.

The Opportunity Project in Millburn was created to empower individuals who have suffered brain injuries. The Millburn Chapter of the Opportunity Project was founded by a group of couples who were frustrated by a lack of productive environments in 1993. Participants of the Opportunity Project in Millburn can tell you that approximately every 21 seconds, someone in the United States suffers a brain injury. There is ample medical care for these individuals, but what many people found lacking was an adequate support system to assist these individual's acclimation back into society. The Opportunity sought to rectify this inequity by basing their organization on the successful club-house model, providing its members with a supportive network while they develop practical work and living skills to live satisfying and rewarding lives. The Opportunity Project Clubhouse is located at 60 East Willow Street in Millburn, and can be reached at 973-921-1000.

The Opportunity Project in Millburn reflects the values and priorities of community members-each other. Real estate in the township of Millburn/Short Hills is booming in part because new home owners respect the priorities of this community.

For more information about the community and real estate in Millburn and Short Hills please visit us at: www.shannonaronson.com

Child Friendly Shopping Made Easy in Downtown Millburn

Fri, 26 Dec 2008 09:24:55 -0800

As resident of Millburn/Short Hills I am in an ideal position to display the most appealing aspects of the township to potential new homeowners. I know that many potential new homeowners are interested in the township of Millburn/Short Hills because of the blue ribbon award winning Millburn High School that consistently sends more than 90% of its graduates to well respected four-year universities and colleges. In addition the town provides many opportunities to make child care convenient.

Many shops are located in the center of town where parents can do all of their errands for and with their children quickly and effectively. In downtown Millburn, children can first accompany their parents to "Suki's the children's Boutique", located at 327 Millburn Avenue, where shopping is made easy because there is a special area for children to play while their parents concentrate on what clothes to find. Suki's makes clothing for children ages 8 and below. For older children, there is "Gotham", a shop located down the street with trendy age appropriate clothing. Next parents can take their children to Futters (333 Millburn Avenue), to choose from a wide variety of shoes. Then children can be taken to get their haircuts at "The House" (281 Essex Street in Millburn), which is a child-friendly salon specializing in "'tween and teen" trims. Finally you can finish off your family day of shopping at "Coco", located at 340 Millburn Avenue, an ice cream cafe with everything from candy to gelato to cookies and soup.

All of these shops are located within walking distance of each other, and specially designed to be as parent and child friendly as possible.

Historic Hessian House of Millburn Lends Space for Anti-Drug Campaign

Fri, 26 Dec 2008 09:23:40 -0800

The township of Millburn/Short Hills is one of the most sought after places to reside in the state of New Jersey. There are plenty of factors that make this area so very coveted. The Blue Ribbon Award winning Millburn High School was rated number one in the state again this year, the homes are beautiful, and the environment is pure and protected. But what really makes the area special is the unwavering vigilance of the community to keep youth and community members safe and to help them to succeed. One way in which the community accomplishes this is by taking active steps to prevent dangerous substances from impacting youth and residents.

According the local sources, the historic home provided refuge for Hessian soldiers battling in the American Revolution's Battle of Springfield. The Hessian House was bought by the anti-drug partnership from Harvey and Isobel Kahn, who lived in the township for the past 52 years. The Hessian House is now the headquarters, main, and only building for the anti-drug partnership in the state. The mission of the anti-drug partnership is to "un-sell" drugs and alcohol to the youth of the community and state.

Millburn's Hessian House, which is a landmark building found at 155 Millburn Ave, now hosts Fighters in New Jersey's war on drugs. The interior of this historic home, built in the 18th Century, is pristine and retains its antique draperies and fireplace, yet the walls also hold new anti-drug posters-indicating that the house is owned by the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey. The Hessian House was dedicated on July 15, 2008 by its new owners and has become the new Joseph P. Miele Center for Substance Abuse Prevention.

It is no wonder that new homeowners would be eager to invest in property in the township of Millburn/Short Hills, when it is clear that the community is constantly vigilant against threats to their youth and peers.

For more information about the community at Millburn and Short Hills New Jersey please visit us at: www.shannonaronson.com

Millburn Library Hosts the Fireside Book Discussion Group

Wed, 10 Dec 2008 13:31:07 -0800

Potential new homeowners are always eager for me to show them properties in the township of Millburn/Short Hills. Bubbling with excitement about the cozy yet trendy town, they are excited to learn as much as possible about the township of Millburn/Short Hills and what makes it unique. As a realtor, I am well versed in the many aspects of the township of Millburn/Short Hills that would make the area appealing to new homeowners. The warm and caring community provides events that interest both new residents and long time homeowners.

The Fireside Book Discussion Group's meeting was open to all this month. The Fireside Book Discussion Group meets at the Millburn Free Public Library locate on Glen Avenue and holds discussions and presentations every month. This month's meeting was held on Monday, December 1^st at 1:00 p.m. in the Williamsburg Room. Leading the discussion was Ruth Otto. The book "Whistling Season" by Ivan Doig was the subject matter.

During February, the Fireside Book Discussion Group will be looking at "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela. In March, the topic of discussion will be the piece "Replay" by Ken Grimwood. New owners and long time residents alike can find more information about future meetings by calling 973-376-3547.

Activities such as the monthly meetings of the Fireside Book Discussion Group are part of what makes the cultured township of Millburn/Short Hills unique. It is not unexpected that potential new homeowners would look forward to investing in properties in this welcoming and educated area.

What You Need to Know About Livingston’s Mt. Laurel Housing Proposal

Wed, 10 Dec 2008 13:18:18 -0800

It may interest many of you to know more about the proposed site for Livingston's Mt. Laurel housing. If people want to know more about this, please read the article below and visit the website link contained in the article.

"Dear Friends and neighbors:

Please take a few minutes to read the articles posted on this website, www.lshcoalition.com. Whether you live in Livingston or Short Hills in the Deerfield Section, this is vitally important. As of last week, the Livingston Town Council approved the development of the parcel of land where Tutor Time currently sits. This approval was granted in response to a litigation brought by builders seeking to overdevelop this parcel by claiming to be helping Livingston satisfy its obligation to provide low-income housing. According to the approved plan, a 100-unit high rise apartment complex will be built on that 4+ acre site. The Township of Livingston, as part of the litigation settlement, has agreed in advance to change the current zoning of that property to accommodate this proposal. Their rationale for allowing this overdevelopment is that the Tutor Time lot does not sit smack in the middle of a Livingston residential community.

This overdevelopment in our residential community will have drastic, detrimental consequences to our neighborhood. This 100 unit complex (2 high rise 73 ft buildings, plus an underground garage and possible office building) must include by the terms of the litigation settlement, 20-25 very low income units. Traffic issues, environmental concerns involving waterways and run-off water, and the overdevelopment of a residential parcel should be of concern to us all. This plan has not been approved by the judge presiding over the litigation and we are trying to stop that approval. Once approved by the judge, the Township of Livingston will be required to make all necessary zoning changes to accommodate this development. The hearing date is for early January.

Please speak out against this overdevelopment. Take a few minutes to read about what is proposed and contact the Mayor of Livingston, Gary Schneiderman 973-994-2969, and voice your opposition. This is your chance to make a difference, we need all of your voices to stop this assault on our residential neighborhood.

Thank you for your time and consideration.
Melissa Lautenberg Cifu
www.lshcoalition.com"

Shannon Aronson has been investing in real estate for over 8 years.
Please call her for a free consultation to discuss local real estate opportunities.
Direct: 973-214-0691 / Office: 973-376-0033 x 124 /
Shannon@ShannonAronson.com/
www.ShannonAronson.com

Millburn/Short Hills Real Estate Market Report

Wed, 03 Dec 2008 23:47:54 -0800

While we continue to be bombarded with information about the deplorable global and national economies, and the dismal national real estate markets, we need to be reminded that for most of us it is the local real estate market that matters the most. Nearly every day people ask me how our local housing market is weathering the storms of 2008. Since I have begun writing this monthly market condition update, I have received tremendously positive feedback about the information provided here. Please don’t hesitate to contact me if there is additional information you need at any time. Sometimes even local information isn’t specific enough. Often, it is a comparable house on your street and questions about what that home sold for that mean the most to you.

Homes are Still Selling! - From the time period of September 15-November 15 of this year 13 homes in Millburn/Short Hills went “under contract.” These homes were on the market for an average of 54 days before a contract was signed. The average list price of these homes was $1,068,000. During the same period this year, 31 homes closed sales. Of these sold homes, the average number of days on the market was 59.5 and the average sale price was $1,097,000. That means that on average homes sold at 95.6% of the asking price. During the same period in 2007, fewer homes sold (only 29) but the average selling price was $200,000 higher at $1,297,000. The number of days on the market was similar, 54, and the average list price to sale price ratio was nearly unchanged at 95.4%.

Inventory Remains Low- People often say to me, “wow, there sure are a lot of homes for sale at the moment.” While it may seem that way it just isn’t accurate. As of today there are 90 Millburn/Short Hills homes listed on the Garden State Multiple Listing Service. Last year at the same time there were 103. In recent years that number has gone well over 150 at times. Our low inventory remains a blessing to those homeowners who are considering selling. The lack of inventory has been an important reason why our home values have not fallen more dramatically in these difficult financial times. It does appear that many people who would like to sell are waiting until they feel the market turns around. In a town where many homeowners are not overly leveraged and have the freedom to wait out the storm, it helps bolster the market as people are not feeling the need to sell at any price as is the case in other areas.

If you are thinking of selling, don’t assume that this is the wrong time for you. With interest rates remaining low, there are still buyers out there with buying power. With inventory remaining low the choices are somewhat limited for homebuyers who specifically want to be in this township. Your house may be just the one for them. Please call me any time for a complimentary consultation on how my cutting edge marketing strategies will get your home sold quickly and for the top dollar the market will bare.

Shannon Aronson has been investing in real estate for over 8 years. Please call her for a free consultation to discuss local real estate opportunities. Direct: 973-214-0691 / Office: 973-376-0033 x 124 /Shannon@ShannonAronson.com/www.ShannonAronson.com