Blog

Selling and buying advice, market insight, and what is happening this month in Maplewood, South Orange, Montclair, Short Hills, West Orange, and the towns around them.

Latest Posts

Newest first. Looking for a town overview instead? Start with our town guides.

May 17, 2024

Is Enhanced Title Insurance Needed for Your NJ Home Purchase?

Enhanced title insurance can offer added protection for NJ homebuyers, but is it worth it? Understand the pros, cons, and when it makes sense in today's market.

A modern kitchen with a large island, wood herringbone floors, and light wood cabinets, featuring an oversized window.

April 16, 2024

What is Real About the Real Estate Headlines

Real estate headlines can be misleading. We break down what's actually happening in the NJ housing market so buyers and sellers can make informed decisions.

A kitchen with a white quartz island countertop with a wicker pendant lamp hanging from the ceiling.

February 13, 2024

Is Solar Power Right for Your New Jersey Home?

Considering solar panels in NJ? Learn about costs, incentives, long-term savings, and how solar energy can impact your home's value and resale potential.

A modern kitchen featuring wooden cabinets and sleek stainless steel appliances.

February 8, 2024

New Flood Disclosures Will Protect NJ Consumers

Our team receives several calls from residents asking for recommendations for a contractor who can help them deal with a new water issue or repair water damage.

Seller reviewing the steps between contract acceptance and closing with a real estate agent.

January 18, 2024

What $650,000 Buys You in New Jersey?

These towns are all within reasonable commuting distance to Manhattan and have the downtown shopping, walkability, and culture that buyers crave.

A white kitchen with a stove and a sink. The kitchen has stainless steel appliances and granite countertops.

January 15, 2024

What's the Best Time to Sell My House in Maplewood or South Orange?

Remember that averages are just averages. If your house is well prepared, well priced, and easily accessible, we will do well with it just about any time.

A contemporary kitchen and living area with stunning ocean views.

December 17, 2023

2023 Real Estate Market Overview and Why We Are Bullish on 2024

Many sellers were unlikely to want to forgo their lower existing mortgage rate and jump into a purchase at a higher rate, so they stayed in their current homes.

November 21, 2023

How a Landmark Ruling Could Impact New Jersey Home Buyers and Sellers

In the wake of a recent landmark lawsuit, the real estate landscape is undergoing a shift that could have significant implications for home buyers and sellers.

November 20, 2023

Feast on Gratitude: Embracing a Healthy Thanksgiving With a Delicious Recipe Twist

Local wellness expert and chef Tsipi Kaplan shares a game plan for tackling the holiday without a diet fumble. Elevate the health game without sacrificing taste

A clean, minimalist kitchen with a large white island, wooden bar stools, and a mix of white and light-wood cabinetry.

September 23, 2023

How a 2:1 Buydown Can Help You Buy "More Home" in New Jersey

A 2:1 buydown is a financing arrangement that allows homebuyers to secure a favorable interest rate on their mortgage for the first few years of homeownership.

A modern dining room with a black table and chairs. A vase with plants sits in the center of the table.

September 15, 2023

NJ Love

We have the reputation of being an expensive, high-tax, congested, and cold weather with lots of traffic and a bunch of guys straight out of the Sopranos.

August 17, 2023

7%! Is It the End of the World or a Missed Opportunity?

Interest rate hikes have brought mortgage rates solidly into the 7% range, and we are looking at rates in the 8% range for second home and investment properties

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