New Jersey Home Source

2777 Monmouth Rd, Jobstown, NJ home for sale

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Giancarli) — Wed, 30 Mar 2011 02:39:00 +0000

Watch the video on my new listing -

2777 Monmouth Rd, Jobstown, NJ home for sale

Joe Giancarli, SA
Real Estate Advisor
Short Sale Specialist
609-658-2612
jgiancarli@remax.net
http://www.joegiancarli.com/
http://www.njhomesource.com/
http://www.newjerseynewhomes.blogspot.com/
www.activerain.com/blogs/josephgiancarli

Find homes for sale using my new mobile app. Just text JOEG to 87778 and you will be sent download instructions. Once installed on your device, you will be able to do searches and see complete listing details including photos and prices. If your device is GPS enabled you will also see the listings on a map. (Data rates may apply.)

Jobstown NJ - Acreage - Springfield NJ - Monmouth Rd

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Giancarli) — Wed, 30 Mar 2011 02:11:00 +0000

This beautiful expanded custom Cape Cod home sits on a generous 3.2 acres of land in Springfield Twp, set way back from the road on a long private driveway with plenty of room for parking. This 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath home has large rooms and many windows receive plenty of sunlight. The spacious kitchen features ash cabinets with walnut stain, and an extended sitting area with views of the back yard open space and door to the side porch. There are solid pine doors throughout and oak-tread stairs lead to the gleaming hardwood floors upstairs. The master bedroom boasts a large walk-in closet, full bath, and additional closet with custom storage holder. All bedrooms have large closets and hardwood floors, and are decorated in neutral colors so are very bright. The bathrooms have been updated and newly decorated. The basement has heated floors with plenty of room for living areas. This home is very private with peaceful views of the changing New Jersey seasons.

Joe Giancarli, SA
Real Estate Advisor
Short Sale Specialist
609-658-2612
jgiancarli@remax.net
http://www.joegiancarli.com/
http://www.njhomesource.com/
http://www.newjerseynewhomes.blogspot.com/
www.activerain.com/blogs/josephgiancarli

Find homes for sale using my new mobile app. Just text JOEG to 87778 and you will be sent download instructions. Once installed on your device, you will be able to do searches and see complete listing details including photos and prices. If your device is GPS enabled you will also see the listings on a map. (Data rates may apply.)

Are You a Qualified Buyer for a Hamilton, NJ Home Still Waiting to Jump In?

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Giancarli) — Thu, 24 Mar 2011 17:40:00 +0000

As reported by RISMedia.com, the average American homebuyer is still very cautious, with good reasons.

1. Attitude - homeownership is no longer viewed as an investment with a guaranteed return. Many costs are rising more than incomes, so for younger buyers, it seems challenging that they can afford a mortgage plus health care and education.

2. Savings - because real estate is not a liquid asset, in the sense that it can be converted readily to cash, many buyers without savings don't want to tie up their extra cash in real estate.

3. Confidence - uncertainty about the economy, the health care system, the ability of the government to tackle major problems, all weigh on buyer confidence in the stability of a real estate investment. RISMedia.com writes, "The Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University reports that real median household incomes across all age groups under 55 have not increased since 2000. It’s been posited that this will be the first decade in 40 years where real median household incomes will end lower than where they started. Simply, many Americans just don’t feel comfortable about their financial futures and are choosing to hold off on homeownership until they feel more secure."

4. Credit - lenders are still very cautious and credit remains tight for all but buyers with high FICO scores.

5. Timing - no one, even Realtors, know if the New Jersey real estate market, or in the rest of the country, has hit bottom. RISMedia.com continues, "Home values, saysYale Economist, Robert Shiller, are expected to continue falling in the short term by as much as 15-25% more. With the job market still on very rocky ground, the foreclosure crisis continuing to unfold, and the homebuyer tax credit gone, it’s anticipated that demand for middle market homes will remain relatively weak."

6. Mobility - even Seniors now realize they may have to move to work, and certainly younger generations plan on several major moves and careers during their lifetimes. So owning a home in one location becomes problematic, unless the employer offers a relocation package.

Sounds pretty gloomy doesn't it, if you want to buy a home in Hamilton, NJ? But let's talk about your options. There are great deals available, and many sellers who want and need badly to sell. So call or email and let's see if together we can structure a sensible real estate investment for you in today's market.

Joe Giancarli, SA
Real Estate Advisor
Short Sale Specialist
609-658-2612
jgiancarli@remax.net
http://www.joegiancarli.com/
http://www.njhomesource.com/
http://www.newjerseynewhomes.blogspot.com/
www.activerain.com/blogs/josephgiancarli

Find homes for sale using my new mobile app. Just text JOEG to 87778 and you will be sent download instructions. Once installed on your device, you will be able to do searches and see complete listing details including photos and prices. If your device is GPS enabled you will also see the listings on a map. (Data rates may apply.)

1513 Ravens Crest Dr E, Plainsboro, NJ - Condo for Sale

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Giancarli) — Sat, 19 Mar 2011 21:56:00 +0000

Joe Giancarli, SA
Real Estate Advisor
Short Sale Specialist
609-658-2612
jgiancarli@remax.net
http://www.joegiancarli.com/
http://www.njhomesource.com/
http://www.newjerseynewhomes.blogspot.com/
www.activerain.com/blogs/josephgiancarli

Find homes for sale using my new mobile app. Just text JOEG to 87778 and you will be sent download instructions. Once installed on your device, you will be able to do searches and see complete listing details including photos and prices. If your device is GPS enabled you will also see the listings on a map. (Data rates may apply.)

Plainsboro NJ - Ravens Crest - Princeton Meadows - Condo for Sale

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Giancarli) — Sat, 19 Mar 2011 21:15:00 +0000

This one bedroom condo in Ravens Crest at Princeton Meadows is conveniently located on the first floor, with deck and private parking. The square footage is maximized for living areas, with room for office, media, and separate dining. Features are newer wood laminate flooring in the living room, dining room and kitchen, new GE pot scrubber dishwasher, 52-gallon hot water heater, and bedroom carpet. The kitchen has a double sink with garbage disposal and cabinets painted in warm colors, and all appliances are included. Extensive exterior renovations are complete which include newer siding, windows, sliders, lighting, and decks/patios. Community amentities are pool, tennis, and playground. Ravens Crest is close to the NYC bus, train, downtown Princeton, and Princeton Meadows Country Club. Why rent when you can own at this affordable price?
Joe Giancarli, SA
Real Estate Advisor
Short Sale Specialist
609-658-2612
jgiancarli@remax.net
http://www.joegiancarli.com/
http://www.njhomesource.com/
http://www.newjerseynewhomes.blogspot.com/
www.activerain.com/blogs/josephgiancarli

Find homes for sale using my new mobile app. Just text JOEG to 87778 and you will be sent download instructions. Once installed on your device, you will be able to do searches and see complete listing details including photos and prices. If your device is GPS enabled you will also see the listings on a map. (Data rates may apply.)

How to Make your Hamilton NJ Home Greener

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Giancarli) — Fri, 18 Mar 2011 19:37:00 +0000

There are many ways to make your home and lifestyle greener without spending money. Here are some suggestions.

1. Buy in bulk. It almost always costs less to buy staples like toilet paper and laundry soap in big sizes. Also consider this buying habit for discretionary items, like individually packaged snacks in your child's lunch box, which you can buy in the 48-pack.

2. Reuse. Use dish towels or sponges instead of paper towels in the kitchen, rags for the garage instead of paper towels, water bottles and food containers you wash and use again, and the list goes on. This may take a little thought on your part about your lifestyle, but they are easy and painless changes.

3. Don't buy what you can make. If you aren't handy with tools, or a sewing machine, you can at least make a green cleaner of white vinegar, baking soda, and borax. Use old newspapers to clean the windows. There are many ways you can save money around the home by not buying ready-made products.

4. Make those repairs. You'll be amazed how much you will save on your utility bills by recaulking windows, tightening doors, using weather stripping, replacing dirty air filters, etc. These changes will cost only a few hours of your time.

If we all make some small changes in our lifestyles and buying habits, we can easily contribute not just to the greening of our homes but the planet as well. Take a few minutes to think about what you and your family can do to make a difference.

Joe Giancarli, SA
Real Estate Advisor
Short Sale Specialist
609-658-2612
jgiancarli@remax.net
http://www.joegiancarli.com/
http://www.njhomesource.com/
http://www.newjerseynewhomes.blogspot.com/
www.activerain.com/blogs/josephgiancarli

Find homes for sale using my new mobile app. Just text JOEG to 87778 and you will be sent download instructions. Once installed on your device, you will be able to do searches and see complete listing details including photos and prices. If your device is GPS enabled you will also see the listings on a map. (Data rates may apply.)

Staging Curb Appeal to Sell your Mercer County NJ home

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Giancarli) — Fri, 11 Mar 2011 02:08:00 +0000

Peak home selling season is here in New Jersey, and it's time to think about how to present your property to buyers in the best way, so they will want to get out of their cars and come through your front door. The National Assn of Realtors (NAR) reports that 49% of buying decisions are based on curb appeal. In the new language of real estate marketing, this can also be termed "outdoor staging."

If you want to sell your New Jersey home this year, now is the time to increase the Curb Appeal of your property. Even if you've scrubbed and painted inside, if the buyers don't go through the front door, all your work will be for nothing.

Staging in the past 5 years or more has become a very important part of selling a home. As competition from distressed properties increased, sellers of both short sales and those who just wanted to move, had to learn to prepare their homes to look like models. The profession and science of "Staging a Home" became ingrained in the real estate marketing portfolio.

Some of the "appeal" of Outdoor Staging, of course, depends on what buyers want. If they are active and not interested in yard work, lawns and shrubs and trees, no matter how well tended, will look like too much work. But any buyer will appreciate fresh paint, clean windows, an attractive entry to the front door, colorful plantings - all of which show them pride of ownership.

While your neighbors may not take as much care with the exteriors of their properties as you, especially if theirs are not on the market, you still will be affected by the condition of their real estate. You may have to ask the neighbors to clean up or trim or paint. Remember, you are selling your neighborhood, not just your house.

Once buyers are indoors, a photo album open for them to see pictures of how the home looks with summer colors, trees or bushes fully leafed out, can help them see possibilities.

One other tip - never leave out evidence of the work you did to Stage that Curb Appeal. Store the lawn mower, snow blower, rake, garbage bags, etc. out of sight. Yes it takes work to keep up curb appeal, but you are selling an impression, not hiring a gardener.

I know all the Mercer County neighborhoods and can help you decide how best to Stage your Home to sell this year. Just call or email me to discuss your needs.

Joe Giancarli, SA
Real Estate Advisor
Short Sale Specialist
609-658-2612
jgiancarli@remax.net
http://www.joegiancarli.com/
http://www.njhomesource.com/
http://www.newjerseynewhomes.blogspot.com/
www.activerain.com/blogs/josephgiancarli

Find homes for sale using my new mobile app. Just text JOEG to 87778 and you will be sent download instructions. Once installed on your device, you will be able to do searches and see complete listing details including photos and prices. If your device is GPS enabled you will also see the listings on a map. (Data rates may apply.)

Fannie May Housing Survey Gives Optimism to Mercer County NJ Housing Market

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Giancarli) — Sat, 05 Mar 2011 18:06:00 +0000

Fannie Mae’s latest national housing survey finds that Americans are more confident about the stability of home prices than they were at the beginning of 2010, even though they lack confidence in the strength of the economy: The Fannie Mae Fourth Quarter National Housing Survey, conducted between October 2010 and December 2010, polled homeowners and renters to assess their confidence in homeownership as an investment, the current state of their household finances, views on the U.S. housing finance system and overall confidence in the economy.

78% of respondents believe housing prices will hold steady or increase over the next twelve months, up from 73% in January 2010; but almost two-thirds still believe the economy is on the wrong track, virtually unchanged (61%) from the beginning of last year.

Doug Duncan, Vice President and Chief Economist of Fannie Mae, said, “More Americans believe that housing prices will remain stable over the next year. We are also seeing encouraging signs in the positive attitudes toward homeownership among younger Americans, despite the severe impact of the housing crisis on Generation Y. But most respondents to our survey continue to lack confidence in the strength of the economic recovery, and they are less optimistic about their ability to buy a home in the years ahead. This sense of uncertainty is weighing on the housing recovery today and reshaping expectations for housing for the future.”

During 2010, survey respondents increasingly expressed a strong belief that it will be harder for future generations to obtain a mortgage. Three-quarters of those surveyed (74%) believe it will be harder to get a mortgage in the future, up from just over two-thirds at the beginning of 2010.

The percentage of Americans who believe that buying a home is a safe investment declined to 64% over the course of the year, from 70% in January 2010. This is down sharply from a similar survey conducted in December 2003, when 83% of the general population thought buying a home was a safe investment.

The good news for the inventory of distressed homes is that one out of three delinquent borrowers continues to say they have considered defaulting on their mortgage. However, that number fell from 39% at the beginning of the year to 31% in the fourth quarter. The number of delinquent borrowers who say they have seriously considered defaulting has also declined, from 25% in January 2010 to 19%. (Read more survey highlights at RISMedia.com.)
I know the communities in Mercer County and surrounding areas, and the local lenders. If you want to buy a home, I can help you achieve your goals. Call or email me today.

Joe Giancarli, SA
Real Estate Advisor
Short Sale Specialist
609-658-2612
jgiancarli@remax.net
http://www.joegiancarli.com/
http://www.njhomesource.com/
http://www.newjerseynewhomes.blogspot.com/
www.activerain.com/blogs/josephgiancarli

Find homes for sale using my new mobile app. Just text JOEG to 87778 and you will be sent download instructions. Once installed on your device, you will be able to do searches and see complete listing details including photos and prices. If your device is GPS enabled you will also see the listings on a map. (Data rates may apply.)

Robbinsville, NJ - Windsor Meadows - Wildflower Trl - Priced below Assessed Value

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Giancarli) — Sat, 05 Mar 2011 17:16:00 +0000

26 Wildflower Trail is a beautiful 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath Colonial in the prestigious neighborhood of Windsor Meadows. This well maintained home features a 2-story foyer, first floor study and laundry room, family room with wall to wall carpeting and floor-to-ceiling brick fireplace, decorative columns, separate formal dining and living rooms, central air, and 2-car garage. The gourmet eat-in kitchen has upgraded cabinets, new granite countertops, and sliding glass doors leading to a spacious 2-tier re-stained deck. On the second floor are 4 generous bedrooms. The master has a walk-in closet and private bath, with double sinks and jacuzzi tub. The yard is professionally landscaped, with a well-manicured lawn, a variety of shrubs and trees, and an underground sprinkler system. This home is within minutes of shopping, schools, and major roads but is an easy commute to Princeton Jct. and Hamilton train station. Priced below assessed value.

Joe Giancarli, SA
Real Estate Advisor
Short Sale Specialist
609-658-2612
jgiancarli@remax.net
http://www.joegiancarli.com/
http://www.njhomesource.com/
http://www.newjerseynewhomes.blogspot.com/
www.activerain.com/blogs/josephgiancarli

Find homes for sale using my new mobile app. Just text JOEG to 87778 and you will be sent download instructions. Once installed on your device, you will be able to do searches and see complete listing details including photos and prices. If your device is GPS enabled you will also see the listings on a map. (Data rates may apply.)

Trenton, NJ - Townhouse - Centre - Priced below Assessed Value - Tenant

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Giancarli) — Wed, 02 Mar 2011 01:26:00 +0000

Renovated 4 bedroom, 1 bath townhome. Gas heat, newer electric, new chimney. Eat-in kitchen, gas cooking. Full unfinished basement offers many lifestyle possibilities. Tenant occupied, lease runs until Jan. 31, 2012, at $950/mo. Tenant pays all utilities. Near public transportation, and just a few blocks from Cooper Field. Sold "as is". Priced below assessed value.

Contact Joe Giancarli, SA, 609-658-2612, for a private showing.

Joe Giancarli, SA
Real Estate Advisor
Short Sale Specialist
609-658-2612
jgiancarli@remax.net
http://www.joegiancarli.com/
http://www.njhomesource.com/
http://www.newjerseynewhomes.blogspot.com/
www.activerain.com/blogs/josephgiancarli

Find homes for sale using my new mobile app. Just text JOEG to 87778 and you will be sent download instructions. Once installed on your device, you will be able to do searches and see complete listing details including photos and prices. If your device is GPS enabled you will also see the listings on a map. (Data rates may apply.)

Hamilton, NJ - Society Hill - Holly Ct - Condo for Rent

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Giancarli) — Tue, 01 Mar 2011 17:19:00 +0000

Beautiful 2nd floor, 2/2 end unit condo with patio in desirable Society Hill of Hamilton. The 1200 SF home is in move-in condition, spacious, bright, and airy. All neutral carpeting throughout the living room, dining room, and hallway. Eat-in kitchen, updated baths, large walk-in closet in master bedroom. Furnished appliances include washer, dryer, refrigerator, stove/oven.Great Location, close to Veterans Park. Community has pool, tennis courts, playground and clubhouse.

Jan 2011 Home Sales Rise for 3rd Consecutive Month

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Giancarli) — Thu, 24 Feb 2011 23:50:00 +0000

According to the National Assn of Realtors (NAR), existing-home sales, which are completed transactions that include single-family, townhomes, condominiums and co-ops, increased 2.7% to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 5.36 million in January, from a downwardly revised 5.22 million in December. Sales were 5.3% above the 5.09 million level in January 2010. This is the first time in seven months that sales activity was higher than a year earlier.

Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, said, “The uptrend in home sales is consistent with improvements in the economy and jobs, which are helping boost consumer confidence. The extremely favorable housing affordability conditions are a big factor, but buyers have been constrained by unnecessarily tight credit. As a result, there are abnormally high levels of all-cash purchases, along with rising investor activity.”

Investors accounted for 23% of purchases in January, up from 20% in December and 17% in January 2010. The balance of sales were to repeat buyers. All-cash sales rose to 32% of the total in January, up from 29% in December and 2% in January 2010. First-time buyers purchased 29% of homes, down from 33% in December and 40% in January 2010 when an extended tax credit was in place.

"Increases in all-cash transactions, the investor market share and distressed home sales all go hand-in-hand. With tight credit standards, it's not surprising to see so much activity where cash is king and investors are taking advantage of conditions to purchase undervalued homes," Yun said. All-cash purchases are at the highest level since NAR started measuring these purchases monthly in October 2008, when they accounted for 15% of the market. The average of all-cash deals was 20% in 2009, rising to 28% last year.

The national median existing-home price for all housing types was $158,800 in January, down 3.7% from January 2010. Distressed homes edged up to a 37% market share in January from 36% in December; it was 38% in January 2010.

A very positive sign for the real estate market nationwide is the decrease in inventory. Total housing inventory at the end of January fell 5.1% to 3.38 million existing homes available for sale, which represents a 7.6-month supply at the current sales pace, down from an 8.2-month supply in December. The inventory supply is at the lowest level since December 2009 when there was a 7.3-month supply.

Regionally, existing-home sales in the Northeast fell 4.6% to an annual pace of 830,000 in January from a spike in December and are 1.2% below January 2010. The median price in the Northeast was $236,500, which is 4.0% below a year ago.

Single-family home sales rose 2.4% to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.69 million in January from 4.58 million in December, and were 4.9% higher than the 4.47 million level in January 2010. The median existing single-family home price was $159,400 in January, down 2.7% from a year ago.

Existing condominium and co-op sales increased 4.7% to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 670,000 in January from 640,000 in December, and are 7.9% above the 621,000-unit pace one year ago. The median existing condo price5 was $154,900 in January, which is 10.2% below January 2010.

Each community is different, so call or email me for details on home sales in your neighborhood of Hamilton, Mercer County, and surrounding New Jersey areas.

Joe Giancarli, SA
Real Estate Advisor
Short Sale Specialist
609-658-2612
jgiancarli@remax.net
http://www.joegiancarli.com/
http://www.njhomesource.com/
http://www.newjerseynewhomes.blogspot.com/
www.activerain.com/blogs/josephgiancarli

Find homes for sale using my new mobile app. Just text JOEG to 87778 and you will be sent download instructions. Once installed on your device, you will be able to do searches and see complete listing details including photos and prices. If your device is GPS enabled you will also see the listings on a map. (Data rates may apply.)

Homeowners Trend to Remodeling

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Giancarli) — Sat, 19 Feb 2011 01:46:00 +0000

Many Americans, including homeowners in New Jersey, are choosing to remodel their current homes rather than purchase a new house or apartment. BuildFax, a leading provider of building permit data recently released the latest findings of its monthly BuildFax Remodeling Index (BFRI), in addition to a comprehensive review of remodeling activity throughout last year. The findings indicate that in December 2010, residential remodeling activity rose 18% year-over-year and for the fourteenth straight month.

According to the BFRI 2010 Year in Review, in most of the country, remodeling in 2010 resembled what 2008 might have looked like had the housing market not collapsed. In the Northeast, however, 2010 was the worst year in the history of the BuildFax Remodeling Index.

“Throughout the country—even in the lagging Northeast—the last quarter of 2010 shows promise for increased remodeling activity in 2011,” said Joe Emison, vice president of research and development at BuildFax. “The winter is always the trough of the seasonal remodeling cycle, and December 2010 was better than or equal to December 2009 in every region of the country.” Northeast continues to lag all other regions while still showing signs of recovery. The BuildFax Remodeling Index for the Northeast was down 4.1 points (5%) month-over-month but up 1.3 points (2%) year-over-year.

Contact me to discuss your remodeling plans. With my background in construction and lifelong residency in Mercer County, I can help you decide if you should remodel or sell "as is."

Joe Giancarli, SA
Real Estate Advisor
Short Sale Specialist
609-658-2612
jgiancarli@remax.net
http://www.joegiancarli.com/
http://www.njhomesource.com/
http://www.newjerseynewhomes.blogspot.com/
www.activerain.com/blogs/josephgiancarli

(resource: RISMedia.com)

Find homes for sale using my new mobile app. Just text JOEG to 87778 and you will be sent download instructions. Once installed on your device, you will be able to do searches and see complete listing details including photos and prices. If your device is GPS enabled you will also see the listings on a map. (Data rates may apply.)

Hamilton, NJ - Nottinghill - Brockton Rd - Affordable Cape Home

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Giancarli) — Fri, 18 Feb 2011 23:18:00 +0000

56 Brockton Road

, in Nottinghill of Hamilton, is a Cape home in move-in condition. The newly-renovated kitchen features maple cabinets, granite countertops, Wilsonart flooring, high-end stove, stainless steel refrigerator, and built-in dishwasher. An eating with crown molding provides ample space for dining. There’s hardwood flooring in the living and breakfast rooms, and a gas fireplace in the living room. The finished basement can be used as a family or recreation room, and has 2nd fireplace. One guest bedroom and half bath are on the main level. Two bedrooms and a full, neutral bathroom are upstairs. The master bedroom offers a wall of built-in dressers and a walk-in closet. Space in this home has been utilized fully. A newer central air unit was recently installed. In the fenced backyard is a 12x10 shed, and maintenance-free deck with retractable awning. Nottinghill is an established neighborhood of well-maintained Cape homes with yards and mature landscaping.

Hamilton, NJ - Birkshire Rd - Custom Colonial - Priced below Comps

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Giancarli) — Fri, 18 Feb 2011 03:14:00 +0000

34 Birkshire Rd

is a custom Colonial, built in 2004 by Russ Wilber, located on a private cul-de-sac lot, and priced to sell quickly. Its upgrades and amenities include 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, full finished walkout basement, 9' ceilings, hardwood floors, gas fireplace, zoned central A/C, and brick front. The gourmet kitchen features granite counter tops, and stainless steel appliances, gas stove, oven, microwave, dishwasher, and refrigerator. There’s a deck off the kitchen and family room to enjoy a large and private rear yard. Hamilton train station and Veterans Park are 5 minutes away. This same model home has recently sold in the area for over $500,000, making the home a great price opportunity. Contact agent for school information.

Robbinsville, NJ - the Ridings - New Homes - Buyer Options Available - Gordon Rd

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Giancarli) — Sat, 12 Feb 2011 03:04:00 +0000

331 Gordon Road is a custom 3,000 SF home, 4 bedrooms/2.5 baths, to be built on a 2-acre estate lot in Robbinsville, in the prestigious neighborhood of The Ridings. This is the best new home construction, value opportunity, in Robbinsville, by the highly respected local builder, JRM Construction. Standard features of the Presidential Model include a 3-car side entry garage; brick front; 9’ ceilings throughout the first floor; hardwood floors in foyer, kitchen and breakfast room; wall-to-wall carpeting; wood-burning fireplace; 1^st floor office/study; separate laundry room; 2-zoned natural gas heating & AC; full basement; and Energy Star certification. The cook’s gourmet kitchen will offer custom 42-inch cabinets, granite tops, and built-in dishwasher, gas range, and microwave. You have the option of a full bath on the 1^st floor. The master bedroom suite offers an optional sitting room, 2 walk-in closets, master bath with soaking tub, separate stall shower, double vanities, and ceramic tile floor and surrounds. With the sitting room, a $17,000 retail value, you would gain an extra 140 SF, making the total interior 3140 SF. The builder will grade and seed the acreage, which will create a private estate atmosphere. You will have room for a garden, sports, play sets, pool, and to enjoy the natural surroundings and beauty of rural New Jersey. Of course, JRM Construction offers a 10-year homeowners warranty. And if you act soon, you’ll be able to choose custom paint and carpet colors. Full list of standard features available on request.

Joe Giancarli, SA
Real Estate Advisor
Short Sale Specialist
609-658-2612
jgiancarli@remax.net
http://www.joegiancarli.com/
http://www.njhomesource.com/
http://www.newjerseynewhomes.blogspot.com/
www.activerain.com/blogs/josephgiancarli

Find homes for sale using my new mobile app. Just text JOEG to 87778 and you will be sent download instructions. Once installed on your device, you will be able to do searches and see complete listing details including photos and prices. If your device is GPS enabled you will also see the listings on a map. (Data rates may apply.)

Home Prices Stabilize in Most US Markets 4th Quarter, 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Giancarli) — Fri, 11 Feb 2011 22:16:00 +0000

The National Association of Realtors (NAR) reported that home sales rebounded in 49 states during the fourth quarter with 78 markets - just over half of the available metropolitan areas - experiencing price gains from a year ago, while most of the rest saw price weakness. Total state existing-home sales, including single-family and condo, jumped 15.4% to a seasonally adjusted annual rate1 of 4.80 million in the fourth quarter from 4.16 million in the third quarter,

In the fourth quarter, the median existing single-family home price rose in 78 out of 152 metropolitan statistical areas2 (MSAs) from the fourth quarter of 2009, including 10 with double-digit increases; three were unchanged and 71 areas had price declines. In the fourth quarter of 2009 a total of 67 MSAs experienced annual price gains. The national median existing single-family price was $170,600 in the fourth quarter, up 0.2% from $170,300 in the fourth quarter of 2009. Distressed homes, typically sold at discount of 10 to 15%, accounted for 34% of fourth quarter sales, little changed from 32% a year earlier.

Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, is encouraged by the trend. "Home sales clearly recovered in the latter part of 2010 and are helping to absorb the inventory, including many distressed properties. Even with foreclosures continuing to enter the inventory pipeline, they've been selling well and housing supplies have trended down," he said. "A recovery to normalcy requires steady trimming of the inventories."

Yun added, "An improving housing market and job growth will go hand in hand. The housing recovery will mean faster job growth." He projects about 150,000 to 200,000 jobs will be added to the economy this year from an anticipated 300,000 additional home sales in 2011.

NAR President Ron Phipps, said a very favorable affordability environment is a huge factor in the recovery. "Although job growth has been relatively modest and credit is tight, you can't underestimate the impact of historically high housing affordability conditions," he explained. "Mortgage interest rates recently hit record lows, median family income has edged up, and prices in most areas have been stable following the correction from the housing boom. For people with good credit and long term plans, it's hard to imagine a better opportunity than what we see today," Phipps said.

Regionally, the median existing single-family home price in the Northeast increased 2.3% to $240,400 in the fourth quarter from a year earlier. Existing-home sales in the Northeast rose 15.0% in the fourth quarter to a level of 797,000 but are 22.8% below the surge in the fourth quarter of 2009 (due to the 1st time buyer tax credit).

Now is the time for you to consider becoming a homeowner. Contact me to discuss your options and what would work best for you.

Joe Giancarli, SA
Real Estate Advisor
Short Sale Specialist
609-658-2612
jgiancarli@remax.net
http://www.joegiancarli.com/
http://www.njhomesource.com/
http://www.newjerseynewhomes.blogspot.com/
www.activerain.com/blogs/josephgiancarli

Find homes for sale using my new mobile app. Just text JOEG to 87778 and you will be sent download instructions. Once installed on your device, you will be able to do searches and see complete listing details including photos and prices. If your device is GPS enabled you will also see the listings on a map. (Data rates may apply.)

Hamilton, NJ - Adams Ct - Golden Crest - SOLD

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Giancarli) — Tue, 08 Feb 2011 22:13:00 +0000

Desirable Concord model in Golden Crest features 5 bedrooms and 3 full baths under 400K. The home just needs a little TLC, new carpet and paint. New roof in May 2010; new furnace, central air, and hot water heater in 2002. Finished basement with second kitchen and walk-up outside entrance. Beautiful landscaping compliments the stunning stone entry. Located on cul-de-sac. Owner wants offers & quick sale. Great opportunity to get into one of the largest and desirable (Concord) models in Golden Crest for under $400,000.Contact Joe Giancarli, SA, for a private showing. 609-658-2612

Don't Hurt your Credit Score by Making These Mistakes

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Giancarli) — Fri, 04 Feb 2011 03:27:00 +0000

When you pay your bills, you can make a decision to kill your credit score or help it, or at least help you rebuild it. “Most people have wrong or little information about how the system works, and that’s a big reason scores go down when difficult decisions are made during a recession,” said Eddie Johansson, of Credit Security Group. Here are common misunderstandings that could lower your credit score, as reported by RISMedia.com:

"1. Paying late didn’t hurt my credit since I’m caught up now. Johansson said recent late payments are the credit score killers he sees most often. 'It’s great that you caught up,' he said, 'but it doesn’t change the fact that you paid late. Anything other than ‘paid as agreed’ on accounts on your credit report hurts your score.'

"2. Dollar amounts matter in credit scores. An example of bad credit score advice here is 'pay the highest bill first,' Johansson said. 'Dollar amounts don’t matter in FICO scoring; ratios and recency do. The effect on your score is the same for a $1 late payment as a $1,000 late payment. The fewer late payments on your credit report, the higher your score—regardless of their dollar amounts,' he said. If you must pay late and want to avoid damage to your score, pay the accounts that report to credit bureaus first. You can find this information by getting a copy of your credit report.

#3. Closing credit card accounts helps your score. If you cancel a card, you may have just thrown away your chance to increase your score by continuing to build on years of positive credit. 'Very long term positive account history can really boost your score,' Johansson said. 'It’s best for your score to keep cards open and active, using them for small purchases. Next best is to just keep them open so you can build your score back up quickly by using them later.'

"4. Don’t make a bad situation worse. In tough economic times, people often buy more on credit than they usually would. The amount they pay in interest on these purchases is largely determined by their credit scores. Poor decisions that lower scores combined with an already tight budget can be very costly, making money problems worse than they have to be."

Good credit is an essential element of financial security. If you are having problems paying the mortgage on your Mercer County home, call or contact me before you get too far behind. You have options if you act early enough.

Joe Giancarli, SA
Short Sale Specialist
Real Estate Advisor
609-658-2612
jgiancarli@remax.net
http://www.joegiancarli.com/
http://www.njhomesource.com/
http://www.newjerseynewhomes.blogspot.com/
www.activerain.com/blogs/josephgiancarli

Find homes for sale using my new mobile app. Just text JOEG to 87778 and you will be sent download instructions. Once installed on your device, you will be able to do searches and see complete listing details including photos and prices. If your device is GPS enabled you will also see the listings on a map. (Data rates may apply.)

Green Appraisals to Become More Common in the Housing Industry

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Giancarli) — Fri, 28 Jan 2011 01:16:00 +0000

The Appraisal Institute has launched a new course, Valuation of Sustainable Buildings Professional Development Program, to educate appraisers on the intricacies of valuing high-performance residential and commercial buildings.

“There is a tremendous need for this type of education within the real estate sector,” said Appraisal Institute President Joseph C. Magdziarz, MAI, SRA. He continued, "High-performance buildings represent a rapidly growing area of the real estate market, and reliable valuations are critical both to banks’ risk management and to developers’ sound development practices."

In the past, appraisers have been criticized for not accounting properly for a building's "green" features.. This new educational program is intended to bring graduates up to date on methods, techniques, case studies, and valuation for green improvements.

Magdziarz acknowledged that misconceptions about green valuation currently exist among many non-appraisers, including a failure to realize that cost does not always equal value. He noted that appraisers need to have all information from underwriters, builders, real estate agents, and home inspectors related to energy efficient features in order to recognize them and to make appropriate, market-based adjustments. He stated that "A critical issue is market recognition of the actual or perceived benefits of a green building. Do market participants view high-performance features as an enhancement to the market value of the property or as an over-enhancement? This is a critical question that will likely be unique to the particular property and local real estate market.”

If you want to add green features to your home and have questions on how those may affect its resale value, call or email me and let's talk about the market in your New Jersey neighborhood.

Joe Giancarli, SA
Real Estate Advisor
Short Sale Specialist
609-658-2612
jgiancarli@remax.net
http://www.joegiancarli.com/
http://www.njhomesource.com/

How we Live - New Home Survey on Home Furnishings

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Giancarli) — Fri, 28 Jan 2011 01:01:00 +0000

National off-price retailer HomeGoods recently conducted a survey to determine how we live in our homes. The survey complements the recently released 2010 U.S. Population Census. Key findings:

47% of Americans have not updated their home's decor in the last 5 years. 9% haven't updated in 10 years. (This is not surprising given our recent economic pressures.)
44% call their home style traditional, 22% modern, 13% eclectic, 10% country, and 2% global.
20% reported feeling happy with their home's decor.
More than 50% feel relaxed at home, but 14% feel their home furnishings make them gloomy.
36% only spend 5-8 waking hours in their homes each day; 26% spend 9-12 hours a day at home.
65% of women would rather shop for their home furnishings than for shoes (35%).
58% of men rate shopping for the home for fun than for shoes.
38% of men and 46% of women wish they could throw out something on display in the home that is important to their significant other.

Joe Giancarli, SA
Real Estate Advisor
Short Sale Specialist
609-658-2612
jgiancarli@remax.net
http://www.joegiancarli.com/
http://www.njhomesource.com/

55+ Home Buyer Trends

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Giancarli) — Fri, 21 Jan 2011 00:49:00 +0000

A joint study by the 50+ Housing Council of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and the MetLife Mature Market Institute shows the recession has made 55+ buyers more practical when selecting a new home. Design considerations have become less important, and financial concerns have become more prominent, according to the study. Previous studies from these two organizations found that most 55+ buyers depended on home sale proceeds to finance a new purchase. The most recent data shows that option diminished during the economic downturn.

In 2009, only 55% of new age-qualified active adult home buyers reported that their down payment came from a previous home sale, significantly down from 100% of respondents in 2005 and 92% in 2007. In 2005 and 2007, no active adult community buyers reported having to tap cash or savings for a down payment. In 2009, 45% of the average buyer’s down payment came from cash or savings.

The study, “Housing Trends Update for the 55+ Market,” explores recently released housing data from the Census Bureau’s 2009 American Housing Survey (AHS) on the 55+ demographic. The report focuses especially on households living in active adult communities. “Most 55+ consumers—those who chose to move and those who stay in their homes—report that they are happy with their homes and communities,” said Sandra Timmermann, Ed.D., director of the MetLife Mature Market Institute. “But those who did move to an age-qualified community—about 3%—reported the greatest satisfaction, rating their homes and communities at nine on a one-to-ten scale.”

“By the year 2020, as Baby Boomers move into this age bracket, almost 45% of all U.S. households will include someone at least 55 years old,” said David Crowe, NAHB’s chief economist. “The number of those households seeking housing better suited to their changing needs will therefore rise dramatically.” The desire to be near family and friends is the mature mover’s overwhelming motivation, the report noted. The design, amenities and appearance of the residence and the community remain important, but less so than before the recession. Buyers who fall into the 55+ age range that are moving into rental homes, both multi-family and single-family, cited a desire for less expensive housing as second in importance to living near friends and family.

“Proximity to work” was more important than in the past for those relocating to age-qualified, active adult communities—12% in 2009 versus 2% in 2001—underscoring the trend toward delayed retirement in this age group. There was also a reported increase in the share of 55+ single-family homeowners who say they work at home.

Read more at RISMedia.com. For additional information, visit the Mature Market Institute.

Our part of New Jersey - Mercer County and surrounding counties and townships - offer a wide range of housing options for the 55+ demographic. Call or email me to find out about your options, including "aging in place" and reverse mortgages.

Joe Giancarli, SA
Short Sale Specialist
Real Estate Advisor
609-658-2612
jgiancarli@remax.net
http://www.joegiancarli.com/
http://www.njhomesource.com/
http://www.newjerseynewhomes.blogspot.com/
www.activerain.com/blogs/josephgiancarli

Positive Numbers for December Home Sales

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Giancarli) — Fri, 21 Jan 2011 00:29:00 +0000

According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), existing-home sales rose sharply in December, and sales increased for the fifth time in the past six months.

Existing-home sales, which are completed transactions that include single-family, townhomes, condominiums and co-ops, rose 12.3% to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 5.28 million in December, from an upwardly revised 4.70 million in November, but remain 2.9% below the 5.44 million pace in December 2009.

Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, said sales are on an uptrend. "December was a good finish to 2010, when sales fluctuate more than normal. The pattern over the past six months is clearly showing a recovery," he said. "The December pace is near the volume we're expecting for 2011, so the market is getting much closer to an adequate, sustainable level. The recovery will likely continue as job growth gains momentum and rising rents encourage more renters into ownership while exceptional affordability conditions remain."

The national median existing-home price for all housing types was $168,800 in December, which is 1.0% below December 2009. Distressed homes rose to a 36% market share in December from 33% in November, and 32% in December 2009. "The modest rise in distressed sales, which typically are discounted 10 to 15% relative to traditional homes, dampened the median price in December, but the flat price trend continues," Yun explained.

Total housing inventory at the end of December fell 4.2% to 3.56 million existing homes available for sale, which represents an 8.1-month supply at the current sales pace, down from a 9.5-month supply in November.

A Realtor survey by NAR showed that 1st time buyers purchased 33% of homes in December, investors 20%, and the balance were repeat buyers. All-cash sales were 29% of the total, up from 22% a year ago. Single-family sales were up over November, but still below December, 2009. Condo and Co-op sales also followed this trend.

Regionally, existing-home sales in the Northeast jumped 13.0% to an annual pace of 870,000 in December but are 5.4% below December 2009. The median price in the Northeast was $237,300, which is 1.4% below a year ago.

Let me answer your questions about our local New Jersey market. Every community, and every neighborhood, has varying market forces. Call or email me to discuss your real estate needs.

Joe Giancarli, SA
Short Sale Specialist
Real Estate Advisor
609-658-2612
jgiancarli@remax.net
http://www.joegiancarli.com/
http://www.njhomesource.com/
http://www.newjerseynewhomes.blogspot.com/
www.activerain.com/blogs/josephgiancarli

Hamilton, NJ - Short Sale - Norway Ave - Upgraded - Garage

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Giancarli) — Sun, 16 Jan 2011 00:14:00 +0000

Short Sale opportunity. 824 Norway is a well-built full brick colonial featuring 4 bedrooms, 2 full baths, and 3 stories on a spacious lot graced with tall pines. The newly remodeled kitchen has cherrywood shaker-style cabinetry, black granite counter tops, ceramic tiled floors and stainless steel appliances. More upgrades include fresh paint throughout, newer windows and furnace. Hardwood floors, high ceilings, security system, 2-car detached garage, and full basement with outside entrance make this an excellent buy. Think of the potential in the property and how you could finish the basement. Priced for a quick sale and affordable.

Contact Joe Giancarli, SA, for a private showing. 609-658-2612.

Robbinsville, NJ - Gordon Rd - Upgraded - Remodeled

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Giancarli) — Sat, 15 Jan 2011 16:47:00 +0000

338 Gordon Rd sits on more than 1.25 acres of land, with plenty of room to garden and watch the changing seasons. Backing up to woods, expect to enjoy open space and have room to explore. The 40-year old house is currently under extensive renovation and offers the convenience of new touches blended with the quality of older homes. Outside, the exterior has been redone with new siding, gutters, and vinyl windows. Inside, the hardwood floors have been refinished, and shine in all rooms except for new ceramic tile in baths, kitchen, dining room, and laundry room. The existing stained solid pine doors and trim will remain. In the kitchen are new stainless appliances, and granite tops with under-mounted sink. A second floor bath is being remodeled completely and will offer double bowl vanity, stall shower, and separate entrance into the master suite. All bedrooms are spacious with generous closet space, and can double as office or study. The large laundry room is on the main floor. A partially-finished basement features a fireplace and outside entrance, and would make a perfect media center or rec room. More upgrades include a new boiler, new septic system, and fresh paint throughout. This is a convenient location close to schools and transportation corridors, and across the street from The Ridings, a Robbinsville community of $600,000-800,000 homes.
Robbinsville is one of the fastest growing and most beautiful towns in New Jersey. Located about an hour away from both New York City and Philadelphia, Robbinsville has easy access to the country's best in arts, education, and sports without any of the hassle that goes along with living in a big city.

Contact Joe Giancarli, SA, for a private preview. 609-658-2612.