The real estate market can be so confusing today, but don’t despair…recovery and help is on the way.
“Our area of Morris County is very special and unique due to its close proximity to NYC, excellent schools, and scenic beauty, so why can’t I get a higher price for my home now?”
We seem to be in a recovery, but don’t get too excited. Things can change in a heartbeat. A property listed at a fair market price will not last long. Buyers are out there, ready and poised to make the move, but if your property isn’t priced aggressively, your days on the market will linger and your property will be perceived as overpriced.
Once you pass the 60-day mark, the bottom feeders are on the loose, ready to make low offers.
Studies have proven that the closer you are to the “mark” with your pricing, your home will not only sell faster, but for a higher price.
No one wants to overpay, so we all need to proceed with caution when ready to put your house on the market. The recovery that is underway is still very fragile so don’t lose out on potential opportunities because of your higher asking price.
Posted by: 
Caroline Vanleer
Even though we’ve had the hottest summer in recent memory, I still love the summer time. I love the way the shade trees line the streets. I love the sound of kids at the pool. It seems like endless enjoyment can be had just jumping into the pool, swimming, and playing Marco Polo for hours.
I love the smell and freshness of a summer day, garden’s in full bloom, fresh cut grass, butterfly bushes covered with swallowtails, and darting hummingbirds. Our area towns; Madison, Chatham Borough, Chatham Township, Summit, Harding Township and Bernardsville are all well situated for a quick getaway or vacation. There are many pools, parks and golf clubs in these areas to enjoy as well.
In other parts of our area, the Jersey shore beckons to the south, or the great city of Philadelphia, home of the Phillies. North in the Bronx, you will find the Yankees, the famous Bronx Zoo, the Catskill Mountains and destinations in New England. The east will take you to New York City, Long Island beaches and the Mets. West on Route 80 offers great rafting and wonderful Pocono Mountain destinations.
Barbecue’s, baseball, ice cream and movies also remind me of summer. A little closer to home is the Somerset Patriots minor league baseball stadium.
There is no greater summer pleasure than relaxing in a special spot to read a book. While most students have summer reading lists, a host of titles may be found at your local library. Why not ‘check out’ the Madison, Harding, Summit and Chatham libraries.
Posted by: 
Lois Olmstead
Spring is a special time of the year, especially here in Morris County. You know for sure it’s spring with the abundance of blossoming forsythia, daffodils, crocus and myrtle. The forest is starting to green up as well with the first buds starting to show.
A right of passage denoting spring in Harding is the Annual Fishing Contest held this year on April 10, 2010 from 8am-12noon at Bayne Park Pond on Blue Mill Road. Children up to 13 years old are invited to participate and prizes will be awarded.
An increase in cyclists can make driving a little tricky, but the colorful display of the cyclists’ outfits and the energy and joy displayed is a sight to see.
There are so many parks and trails in Morris County worth exploring. For instance, the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, which is located in both the New Vernon section of Harding Township and Chatham Township, offers many wonderful paths to walk, educational events and many quiet spots to sit and take in Mother Nature.
If all this makes you hungry, don’t miss the return of the American Harvest restaurant located in Harding next to the post office. The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch or take-out from 7am to 6pm Monday through Saturday and 7am to 12pm on Sundays. Specials are offered from the deli and Panini grill as well as, fresh vegetables, salads, burgers and a kids menu.
Well, until next time, get outside and enjoy the beauty of these towns this spring.
Posted by:Lois Olmstead
