Chatham & Short Hills, NJ April 2024

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Investing In You!

REAL ESTATE THE RIGHT MOVES

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

INVEST IN TECHNOLOGY

FINANCE + LEGAL SERVICES

LOOKING TO INVEST IN REAL ESTATE?

APRIL 2024
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April: Investing In You!

Investment isn't just about finance; it's about pouring our time, energy, and love into things that light up our lives. Whether it's nurturing our community, building relationships, or just taking care of ourselves, it's all about creating positive vibes.

Let's talk about our awesome local communities – supporting local businesses, schools, and organizations is like giving them a big high-five. Volunteering? That's like investing in the coolest stock ever – the future!

Now, financial investment? It's like planting seeds that grow into a money tree for the future. On a personal level, investing in family and relationships is like sprinkling happiness all around. The joy we share with our loved ones creates this amazing ripple effect that makes life oh-so-awesome.

So, here's my 2024 goal: invest more time in things that bring me joy. Every day is a chance to embrace the awesome gift of life – spending quality time with my family, exploring new places with friends, and soaking in the pure joy of simple pleasures. What's your joy recipe? What are you investing time in?

Our stories in this issue go beyond the dollars and cents. Michelle Pais shares the results of hard work and investing in herself and her company.  We've got a hidden gem at the Hanover Marriott, The Auld Shebeen, insights on investing in an LBI shore home for some great potential weekly rental revenue, and a story on how an outdoor investment in an innovative Pergola can turn your home into a happy place.

This is not just an Investment issue – it's a celebration of the awesome ways we invest in ourselves, relationships, community, and finances. Dive into these uplifting stories and let the good vibes inspire your unique journey. Can't wait to bump into you around town and share some smiles!

If you’re looking to grow your business, brand, product or service and would to advertise with us or have local stories to share, reach out to John.Meyer@citylifestyle.com or call us at 973-944-1440.

We look forward to seeing you around town!

Ana

LIFESTYLE LETTER
CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/CHATHAMANDSHORTHILLS LIFESTYLE LETTER Chatham & Short Hills City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Chatham & Short Hills area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Chatham & Short Hills City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed. Proverbs 3:5-6 PUBLISHERS
Meyer
ana.meyer@citylifestyle.com
Meyer
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR Ben Meyer MANAGING EDITOR Ana Meyer | ana.meyer@citylifestyle.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Baldani, Ben Meyer CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER Chris Jorda Photography April 2024 Visit our Instagram Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein AD DESIGNER Josh Govero LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise. 4
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John
| john.meyer@citylifestyle.com
Sue
inside the issue APRIL 2024 | INVESTMENT Departments Michelle Pais, Signature Realty, NJ  Photography: Chris Jorda Photography On the Cover 4 Lifestyle Letter 8 City Scene 10 Business Monthly 14 Must See REAL ESTATE 18 Local’s Choice REAL ESTATE 24 Culinary Creations FOOD + BEVERAGE 30 Artist’s Palette HOME + DESIGN 36 Local Limelight FINANCE + LEGAL SERVICES 40 Expert Help PROFESSIONAL SERVICES 46 Home Update HOME SERVICES The Right Moves A comprehensive and personalized real-estate agency A Shore Thing Invest in an LBI vacation home and reap the weekly financial rewards Invest in Culinary Heritage From Ancient Oaks to Culinary Classics: Unveiling the Rich Tapestry of Irish Heritage Beyond Shade: Pergola Tech-Trends for Ultimate Outdoor Living! Learn how strategic investments in pergola technologies create a haven of luxury and innovation. Featured 14 18 24 30 14 30 18 24 6
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city scene

1: Artist Giovanni DeCunto at Short Hills Wentworth Gallery in person event. 2: Artist Giovanni DeCunto with a collector at Short Hills Wentworth Gallery in person event. 3: Artist Giovanni DeCunto with a collector at Short Hills Wentworth Gallery in person event. 4: Collector Matthew with his new Batman piece by Spanish artist Miguel Primo at Wentworth Gallery 5: Art collector Stanley Howell with his new piece by artist Giovanni DeCunto 6: Wildly Floral Galantine's flower arrangement workshop in South Orange. 7: Wildly Floral Galantine's flower arrangement workshop in South Orange.
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN APRIL 2024 Want to be seen in the magazine? TAG YOUR INSTAGRAM PHOTOS WITH @CHATHAMSHORTHILLS CITY SCENE 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

business monthly

Welcome Chatham’s Mexican Spice to our Morris City Lifestyle Family!

Welcome Chatham’s Mexican Spice to Morris City Lifestyle!

“Mexican Spice in Chatham NJ is about as authentic as it gets. We are passionate about our culture, traditions, food and ingredients as well as presentation, customs and celebrations. We cook from scratch, and it shows. We offer eat in, take out, corporate and private catering as well as two taco trucks, a mobile cantina and even a churro cart for any occasion. Jennifer Teutli, Chef/ Owner www.mexicanspice.net

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Coming soon Signature Realty new Short Hills office

Signature Realty NJ and the Michelle Pais Group believe in investing in local brick-and-mortar locations for buyers, sellers and agents to come together. While many other real estate agencies, and businesses in general, are going virtual, the brand is expanding its in-person, and personal, footprint.  Its new state-of-theart Short Hills office at 549 Millburn Avenue, with almost 4,000 S.F. Visit in https://michellepaisgroup.com/

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Wildly Floral Spring Wreath 4/3 & Flower Arranging 4/25 Workshops

Join us on April 3rd, 7pm at Wildly Floral for Spring Wreath Workshop. Learn to create a unique Spring wreath, made with seasonal blooms and fragrant foliages. No experience necessary, all materials will be provided. Join us on April 25th, 7pm and learn to create a unique flower arrangement, featuring fresh and local Spring blooms and flowering branches. No experience necessary, all materials and supplies will be provided. Register at https://www.wildlyfloral.co/

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Want to be featured?

A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES APRIL 2024 BUSINESS MONTHLY
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Meet Short Hill’s Risha Walden, Vegan Luxury Interior Designer

Risha Walden helps luxury homeowners transform their home into a beautiful sanctuary that represents their lifestyle and dreams. Since 2009, as the Principal Designer & Founder of Walden Interiors, Risha incorporates her clients’ personality with unique and personal design solutions using sustainable, vegan alternatives. Trained at the New York School of Interior Design, Risha draws inspiration from traveling, nature and animals. https://walden-interiors.com/

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Contact ALISA MOLBERT C: (732) 718-0039 O: (609) 494-7272 ext: 1103 amolbert@zackshore.com www.longbeachislandlistings.com THANK YOU TO MY CLIENTS FOR HELPING ME ACHIEVE NATIONAL SALES RECOGNITION FOR THE THIRD CONSECUTIVE YEAR! I’M HONORED TO BE THE TOP 14% OF BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOMESERVICES NETWORK AGENTS NATIONWIDE. 11 APRIL 2024 | CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/CHATHAMANDSHORTHILLS

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A COMPREHENSIVE AND PERSONALIZED REAL-ESTATE AGENCY

THE RIGHT MOVES

MUST SEE | REAL ESTATE 14

As a New Jersey based agency, Signature Realty NJ and the Michelle Pais Group believe in investing in local brick-andmortar locations for buyers, sellers and agents to come together. While many other real estate agencies, and businesses in general, are going virtual, the

agent, the original agent is going to participate in that revenue as well. “We’ve launched it in December of 2023 and agents have already started getting paid.” Jonathan recommends going to ExploreSignature.com to watch a 12-minute video to discover

“OUR MOTTO IS ‘SEEK TO SERVE ONE ANOTHER.’”

brand is expanding its in-person, and personal, footprint.

Its new state-of-the-art Short Hills office at 549 Millburn Avenue, with almost 4,000 square feet, is expected to open soon and will be the agency’s eighth office location. Not only will it be a meeting place for agents and their clients, but a place for the community. “We’ll be doing a series of workshops and home seller seminars,” she says.

Another new and exciting venture is its revenue share model. “It’s a way for agents to be able to build passive income while they help grow the company,” says broker Jonathan Steingraber, Michelle’s husband and business partner. “For every person that an agent introduces to the company, they get paid whenever that agent does a transaction, so they’re getting a portion of the revenue.”

Not only that, he says, but when that new agent brings in another

how it works.

The agency’s 400 highly trained agents all share a great camaraderie. “Our motto is ‘Seek to Serve One Another,’ and we all collaborate and help each other,” says Jonathan. For those wanting to become agents, they offer Signature Realty Academy.

A few months ago, Signature Realty NJ and the Michelle Pais Group also launched its Signature Sip podcast. “We put out one a week, and you get to learn from Michelle Pais, one of the top agents in the country, and myself,” says Jonathan. “With these podcasts, we share best practices, provide valuable insights and interview guest experts.” They’re about 30 minutes long and can be found on Spotify and YouTube.

Signature Realty NJ and the Michelle Pais Group just keep expanding. “We’re not your traditional real estate brokerage; we are a marketing company who specialize in breaking sales records for

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“WE’RE NOT YOUR TRADITIONAL REAL ESTATE BROKERAGE.”

our clients,” says Michelle. She and her team have ranked #1 in the state for the past five consecutive years by RealTrends under the medium-size team category and has also been named Best Agent in America by Real trends and WSJ. In 2016, she was named “one of the most powerful people in NJ Real Estate” by NJBIZ, and her most recent accolade was making the Marquis “Who’s who” list.

To learn more, go to SignatureRealtyNJ.com and MichellePaisGroup.com.

MUST SEE | REAL ESTATE
Jonathan Steingraber
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Michelle Pais
ARTICLE BY SUE BALDANI | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED INVEST IN AN LBI VACATION HOME AND REAP WEEKLY FINANCIAL REWARDS A Shore Thing LOCAL’S CHOICE | REAL ESTATE 9006 Long Beach Blvd #B in Long Beach Twp, NJ LBI Seafood LBI Kite Festival 18
““A lot of homeowners who rent also block time for themselves.”

When it comes to real estate, location is always important, whether it’s for your primary residence or a vacation home. The great thing about a vacation home is that while you can enjoy it with your friends and family, you can also rent it out and have an investment property that brings in weekly revenue. The better the location, and quality of the home, the higher the weekly rent you can charge.

Long Beach Island, long a desired destination for many families, has beautiful beaches, fun activities, amazing restaurants and wonderful shopping. “Every time you cross over the bridge, even though you’re still in New Jersey, it absolutely feels like you’re somewhere else,” says Alisa Molbert, a Realtor Associate®  with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Zack Shore, REALTORS® in Ship Bottom.

The weekly rentals, according to Alisa, “from bayfront to beachfront and everything in between can range from $2,500 to $25,000 weekly depending on the location and property.”

The average rental price, she says, has increased from $5,200 in 2020 to $6,925 as of February 2024. One of her current listings, though it has never been rented before, has the potential to bring in $3,500 weekly rental income or $35,000 for a 10-week summer season. You can enjoy a few weeks for yourself and rent out the rest both in season and yes, even off season. The demand is there.

People also enjoy renting in the off season, when the beaches are quieter, but the water is still warm. There are also plenty of activities on the island as well such as Kite Fest and Chowder Fest in the fall. And, as a bonus, dogs are allowed on the beach in the off season, so you can bring your furry family member on vacation with you!

Although rental rates are not as high in the off season, they are still very impressive. Let’s look at an example of Alisa’s current three bedroom, two bath 1,200 SF beautiful listing located at 9006 Long Beach Blvd #B in Long Beach Twp, NJ.  “In May, June, October and November, there is the potential of $2,500 weekly or more, property specific.”  With a potential of the additional 16 weeks of rental income, it has the potential to bring in an estimated $40,000 in off-season rental income.  Combine both the ten weeks in season of $35,000 and the additional 16 weeks off season, the property has a potential rental income of $75,000 for only 26 weeks of use!

People also like to rent during the holidays, such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years, and Easter. It’s a unique way to celebrate. “I estimate those rental rates would be about $2,000 for the week,” says Alisa.

Buyers who are interested in a rental LBI investment property should look at the home’s prior rental history (if it’s been rented before) or benchmark similar properties to estimate and forecast the potential weekly rental income it can bring. Again, location matters. “Beach Haven, on the south side of the island, tends to be more popular with families because of Fantasy Island,” she says. “There’s also Bay Village for shopping and lots of restaurants.

“Towards the north side of the island, Surf City is very popular because renters can walk or bike to restaurants and shops.” The farther north you go, the quieter it gets, and that’s a great sanctuary for people looking for a more restful vacation.

Since inventory is still low, Alisa recommends looking for properties as soon as possible if you want to be in this summer. Even if you don’t want to invest in a rental property, investing in an LBI shore house brings many impressive financial rewards.

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“In 2020, the average sales price in LBI was $1.192M,” she says. “At the end of 2023, the average sales price was $1.938M. That’s quite a bump. You can put your money into these properties and watch them gain equity because we are still anticipating prices to continue to increase for years to come.”

Whether you are looking for a wonderful summer vacation home to enjoy with your family

or a revenue generating LBI property, the data shows that it can be great investment to add to your portfolio.

Alisa is not only an award winning LBI Realtor, but she is also a long-time resident of Long Beach Island. If you are curious about options and are looking to own a shore house, go to LongBeachIslandListings.com and reach out to Alisa at AMolbert@ZackShore.com.

LOCAL’S CHOICE | REAL ESTATE
LBI, NJ 20
Every time you cross over the bridge, even though you’re still in New Jersey, it absolutely feels like you’re somewhere else. “ ”
LBI Fantasy Island LBI Sunrise
21 APRIL 2024 | CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/CHATHAMANDSHORTHILLS
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INVEST IN CULINARY HERITAGE:

THE AULD SHEBEEN PUB

CULINARY CREATIONS FOOD + BEVERAGE 24

FROM ANCIENT OAKS TO CULINARY CLASSICS: UNVEILING THE RICH TAPESTRY OF IRISH HERITAGE

Get ready for a local Irish adventure through The Auld Shebeen, nestled inside the Hanover Marriott, where history, flavors, and tunes collide in a whirlwind of Irish magic! Over 90 percent of the material used to create the pub, from the flooring to the woodwork, is authentic Irish salvage from century old structures imported from Ireland. The Auld Shebeen was first constructed in Belfast, Ireland and then was taken apart and shipped to

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Fresh Prepared Chicken Pot Pie

be reconstructed at the Hanover Marriott. From the moment you step inside, you are embraced by the warmth and authenticity of a genuine Irish pub. Completing your authentic Irish experience is their chef-prepared, savory, classic Irish dishes. Let’s explore what makes The Auld Shebeen an authentic Irish experience to share with friends and family dinners!

Step Back in Time: The Auld Shebeen is divided into five areas, with a piece of Irish History in every corner which include, the Dining Room and Library, the Brewery Area  and the Grocery Shop. Let’s begin with the Dining Room and Library. Crafted from solid oak sourced from a central Belfast mansion’s library, this oak—once gracing English mansions—has

CULINARY CREATIONS FOOD + BEVERAGE 26
“THE AULD SHEBEEN’S MENU UNFOLDS LIKE A CULINARY MAP THROUGH IRISH HERITAGE.”

been rejuvenated from beams salvaged from a 400-year-old Catholic school in Dundalk, Co Louth.

Brewing Rebellion: The Brewery, in the heart of the main bar area, is a shrine to Ireland’s spirited rebellion. An 18th-century Poitin still shares clandestine distillation tales from a Dublin farmhouse’s outskirts. Unique architectural details abound, such as church kneelers from Maynooth and a bar counter crafted from Co. Galway church seats. Look up and notice the trusses dating back to the late 1700s and the beams shipped to Hanover, NJ, from an abandoned church in Cahirciveen, Co Kerry.

A Symphony of Ages: Another area, the Grocery Shop, features cabinets sourced from Monastervin’s spirit grocer and a pine floor from Stormont Castle, over 200 years old! In the Cottage Area at the rear, the tile flooring speaks of Dublin’s Scullery houses, also shipped from Ireland, and a water pump and sink from an 1800s Belfast country house complete this visual rural symphony.

Foodie Wonderland: Onto the culinary delights! The Auld Shebeen’s menu unfolds like a culinary map through Irish heritage. Signature dishes like Fish n’ Chips, Chicken Pot Pie, Cottage

Pie, and heavenly Bread Pudding pay homage to traditional recipes. They also offer “Pub” fare, featuring sandwiches, salads, and enticing entrees. Taste the freshness in every chef-prepared dish and every bite!

Live Melodies and Merriment: Irish pubs are synonymous with live music, and The Auld Shebeen lives up to the tradition. Once a month, The Coffin Ships take the stage, playing Irish sing-alongs that uplift spirits. On special occasions you can see John and Danny, bagpipers extraordinaire, adding a traditional touch. The pub resonates with laughter, song, and the joyous clinking of glasses.

Sips of History: Dive into the bar’s extensive selection of Irish spirits, including 11 distinct Irish Whiskeys and classic drafts like Guinness, Smithwick’s, Harp, and more! Unique concoctions like the Irish Mule and the famed Irish Coffee, with Jameson and fresh whipped cream, elevate the experience to a spirited celebration.

Cultural Celebrations: Beyond day-today operations, St. Patrick’s Day reigns supreme, with the pub adorned in festive banners, free necklaces, and classic Irish dishes. It’s a day when the essence of Ireland spills into every corner, creating a unique and memorable experience.

Whether you’re here for the taste of history, spirited tunes, or the curated selection of spirits, I invite you to experience The Auld Shebeen Pub. It is a hidden local gem where you can savor the past, embrace the present, and embark on an unforgettable journey through Ireland’s living heritage. Sláinte!

27 APRIL 2024 | CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/CHATHAMANDSHORTHILLS
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BEYOND SHADE: PERGOLA TECH-TRENDS FOR ULTIMATE OUTDOOR LIVING!

PHOTOGRAPHY
AND PROVIDED ARTIST’S PALETTE | HOME + DESIGN 30
BY
JORDA PHOTOGRAPHY
Learn how strategic investments in pergola technologies create a haven of luxury and innovation.

Gone are the days when pergolas were mere wooden structures confined to the past. Step into the future of outdoor living with a visionary duo – Aaron Thall and Chris Wehmeyer, founders of PergolaHaus, where outdoor innovation meets luxury!

“Traditional pergolas had four columns and a series of cross beams that didn’t move, and were usually made out of wood,” says Aaron Thall, contrasting them with the newer, modern bioclimatic pergolas that respond intelligently to the climate. Rainy day? No problem. The louvered roofs automatically close, sparing you the mad dash to protect your patio furniture. Hosting an event? Stay dry as you revel in the seamless harmony of technology and nature.

PergolaHaus is an authorized dealer for Renson®, a cutting-edge manufacturer from Belgium, renowned for their forward-thinking designs. Crafted from extruded aluminum, these pergolas defy decay, ensuring longevity and aesthetic appeal. But the innovation doesn’t stop there. The company is also an authorized dealer for SOLISYSTEME® pergolas from France and Markilux retractable awnings from Germany, offering a trifecta of high-end choices catering to various lifestyles and budgets.

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Aaron and Chris collaborate closely with homeowners and business owners, turning their outdoor dreams into reality. From standalone structures to façade-mounted extensions, these pergolas transcend conventional boundaries. One delighted Delaware customer has ingeniously transformed his pergola into a home extension of his kitchen, complete with stonework walls, retractable screens, and sliding glass doors. It serves as an outdoor kitchen and dining space, a testament to the versatility these pergolas bring.

The dynamic duo at PergolaHaus notes a significant shift in trends. “Before 2020, most homeowners sought shade solutions for outdoor dining or poolside lounging. However, COVID accelerated a shift towards multi-purpose outdoor living and entertainment,” explains Aaron. What was once a quest for retractable screens and dimmable lighting has evolved into long-term investments like heaters, outdoor fireplaces, and custom entertainment walls with flat screen TVs and wireless speakers.

Chris adds, “Pergolas, once considered a summertime indulgence, have now become a year-round luxury with high-tech upgrades.” Clients attest to the transformative impact, with one noting, “My new Renson pergola features louvers which close automatically in the rain, retractable shades which close for privacy, LED lights for nighttime, and heat for those chilly evenings.”  They also come with remotes, so if the sun gets too hot, you can just hit a button to adjust the angle of the louvers and enjoy some shade.

Expanding beyond residential projects, PergolaHaus also collaborates with architectural firms and designers for high-end commercial amenity spaces in New Jersey and nationwide.

Investing in a high-end pergola from PergolaHaus is not just about shade – it’s about adding beauty, function, and versatility to your space. As Michael R. from Glencoe, IL attests, “Our Renson pergola from PergolaHaus, has quickly become the 2nd most used space of our home! The motorized screens do a great job cutting the wind, allowing the heaters inside the pergola to keep the temperature comfortable enough to enjoy sitting out by the gas firepit, watching movies & football outside even in the cold months (hint, the screens have doubled as an outdoor projector screen, what an awesome bonus!)”

We invite you to step into the world of innovative, luxury, “outdoor rooms”, and get inspired by design ideas, styles, and options. Invest in your open-air living at PergolaHaus.com today.

ARTIST’S PALETTE | HOME + DESIGN
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Real Estate? LOOKING TO INVEST IN

FOLLOW THESE SMART MONEY MOVES FOR GREAT RETURNS

When investing in real estate, it’s always smart to have an expert guide you. Here, Jon Lamkin, senior vice president of Guaranteed Rate in Millburn, shares his knowledge to ensure you’re moving in the right direction.

“What’s great about the Rate Reduce Program, in the event rates drop, the client can refinance at any time, and if there are funds remaining in the buy down, they are used to pay down the principle balance.”
LOCAL LIMELIGHT | FINANCE + LEGAL SERVICES 36

How do people start investing in real estate?

The second home market has taken off over the last five years. Many homeowners have seen great appreciation in their primary residence, and we have helped many clients use the equity from a primary to help buy a second home that they can use instead of paying for expensive vacations.

After owning it for a few years, some people realize that they might not use it as much as they thought. With the growth of sites like Airbnb and VRBO, many people owning second homes have been able to pick a few weeks to rent it out versus having the house sit empty.

What about a straight investment property to just use as a rental?

The key is to have positive cash flow. If the mortgage payment, taxes and insurance run $4,000 a month, and you’re collecting $5,000 a month, then that’s a phenomenal investment because now you have other people paying off your mortgage .

There are also very good tax advantages you can get when you own an investment property because you’re writing off everything that you spend on the house. When you buy an investment property, you are required to put down 20% - 25%, which is much more than the 3% down that is required for a primary residence.

Make sure you save six months of rental income for any type of necessary repairs.

How can Guaranteed Rate’s Rate Reduce temporary buy down program make homeownership and investments more affordable?

A temporary buy down reduces the interest rate on your mortgage for the first few years. Rates can be reduced up to 3% lower than the current market rate for the first year and then it gradually increases each year. Clients do have the ability to refinance at any time if it makes sense to do so.

37 APRIL 2024 | CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/CHATHAMANDSHORTHILLS
Jon Lamkin

Celebrating Our 14th Year Anniversary!

It’s hard to believe it’s already been 14 years since La Pergola found our home in the warm and welcoming community of Millburn. All this years in this terrific town we have enjoyed sharing our passion for bringing the best of Northern Italy’s flavors to your plate while creating so many wonderful friendships along the way. We look forward to celebrating many more milestones with you and yours for years to come.

With much love and gratitude,

973-376-6838
New Jersey
lapergolanj.com 120 Essex St Millburn,
La Pergola Family! 38
RESIDENTIAL & BUSINESS CONCIERGE TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS www.bluecodenetworks.com | 732.993.6633 | info@bluecodenetworks.com CONTACT US FOR A FREE CONSULTATION YOUR TECH PROBLEMS, OUR SOLUTIONS Making our Clients’ lives easier for over 15 years Dr. Louis Rizio is a fellowship trained sports medicine specialist and orthopedic surgeon, providing care for professional, college, high school, and recreational athletes for over 20 years. His focus is returning athletes to a high level of activity and sports competition in an efficient, safe time frame. Dr. Rizio welcomes athletes of all ages for surgical and non-surgical consultations. DR. LOUIS RIZIO SURGERY FOR ATHLETES 973-322-7005 www.drrizio.com 200 S Orange Ave, Suite 230 Livingston NJ @ M A N E H O U S E S A L O N M A N E H O U S E S A L O N @ G M A I L C O M P : 9 7 33 0 38 1 4 2 ENHANCE YOUR LOOK WWW MANEHOUSE SALON 240 NJ-10 WEST, EAST HANOVER, 07936 WITH A PERSONALIZED STYLE THAT’S TAILORED TO YOU 39 APRIL 2024 | CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/CHATHAMANDSHORTHILLS

OUR EXPERTS, WITH A HIGH CODE OF CONDUCT, CATER TO ALL YOUR HOME AND BUSINESS IT NEEDS

Invest in Technology

EXPERT HELP | PROFESSIONAL SERVICES 40

Growing up, Samir Patel’s fascination with computers stemmed from his father’s work in computer engineering. “He was working on components for computers and other electronics, and when I was young, he brought home our first computer,” Samir recalls. “In the early 80s, no one had computers in their homes. I was very technical, so working with computers always came naturally to me.”

After graduating with a degree in engineering from Rutgers University, Samir discovered that his passion lay more with computers than with engineering. Following his heart, he delved into various technology companies, immersing himself in every aspect of the industry. In 2009, he founded Blue Code in Short Hills, and people have been investing in its services ever since.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY ABOUT HELPING PEOPLE WITH THEIR TECHNOLOGY NEEDS?

Helping others is really a big part of who I am. I want clients to trust me and our team because we will always do what’s in their best interests. I take pride in nurturing long-term relationships, noting how many clients have remained with Blue Code for almost 15 years, entrusting us with their evolving technological needs.

TELL ME ABOUT SOME OF THE SERVICES BLUE CODE PROVIDES FOR HOMES AND BUSINESSES.

We pride ourselves on delivering a comprehensive suite of services tailored to both homes and businesses. Our approach is akin to a concierge service, where we prioritize understanding our clients’ unique needs, struggles, and priorities.

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EXPERT HELP | PROFESSIONAL SERVICES 42

Through thorough assessments and dialogue, we craft personalized solutions designed to address immediate concerns while proactively managing their systems and environments.

We are a big part of our clients’ technological lives. A cornerstone of our service is ensuring robust security measures. With cyber threats looming large, we take proactive steps to fortify the systems at both homes and businesses to ensure that we are keeping our clients’ most sensitive information, safe.

With many of our clients working from home, we specialize in setting up and optimizing networks for home offices. By leveraging our partnerships with bestin-class technology companies such as Apple, Microsoft, Google, Dell, and Cisco, we are able to tailor to our clients’ specific requirements.

We also work a lot with smart home technologies. While our trade partners excel in audio, video, lighting, and security systems, our proficiency lies in seamlessly integrating these components with robust IT infrastructure. We help to bridge the gap between cutting-edge technology and everyday convenience.

We also have expertise across both PC and Mac platforms. Unlike most tech firms that specialize in one or the other, we possess the versatility and proficiency to cater to a diverse array of computing environments, ensuring that every client receives the highest standard of service, regardless of their chosen platform.

TELL ME ABOUT YOUR TEAM. WHY SHOULD PEOPLE TRUST BLUE CODE WITH THEIR TECHNOLOGY?

As a small team, we are able to consistently deliver personalized support.  Clients often see or speak to the same team members for all their needs.

When I hire team members, I look for the same traits and core values that I possess. Resourcefulness and exceptional customer service is as important as their technical knowledge.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO WHEN YOU’RE NOT WORKING?

I lead a very active lifestyle. I love to cross train, play golf, and walk our dog.

43 APRIL 2024 | CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/CHATHAMANDSHORTHILLS
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THE ART OF HOME SERVICE

In the realm of white-glove service, visions of exotic cars, private jets, and world-class specialists often dance in our minds. Yet, the domain of roofing, siding, and replacement windows and doors rarely earns a place on this illustrious list. RJW Exteriors, however, is changing that narrative.

HOME UPDATE | HOME SERVICES 46
RJW Exteriors Gives The White-Glove Experience You (And Your Home) Will Love
“We use technology at every turn, including 3D renderings of your home. It’s really design backed by science.”

At least not until now. RJW Exteriors is doing their level best to add that to this list. The expectation of homeowners when they begin the process of improving or repairing problems in their home is probably dreading the process and hoping for the best. They anticipate it’s going to be a slog, rife with problems and delays from a company that leaves them with more questions than answers. “Every project we undertake is a custom project,” explains Lucy Casey, Creative Marketing Manager of RJW Exteriors. “It’s all focused on our client from the beginning. Once they call us, we begin the process of visiting with them, designing the project around their specific needs and expectations, and building a team around what they need to have done.”

“Each home is different, with its own situation. You can’t provide the best service with guesswork and cookie-cutter answers. We’ll look at underlying causes, how the home is built, and what issues each

project might face. That’s how we fit the right solution to each home. Something as simple as how the sun hits each part of the house at different times of the day can have a major impact upon the outcome, and what should be done.

“We use technology at every turn, including 3D renderings of your home. It’s really design backed by science.” Besides the bespoke project, the best part might just be the knowledge that you won’t be chasing some unreachable contractor that has conflicting schedules and questionable accountability. When you partner with this company, they provide a dedicated project manager to your home that will keep the lines of communication open. The white glove service doesn’t become a white-knuckle experience for an RJW Exteriors client.

“We have a seven-step process with every one of our clients,” according to Casey. “It begins with their call. We’ll schedule a visit to come for a free design

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consultation before they even become a client. Once they agree to do the work, we prepare them for what’s going to happen and keep them informed throughout the process. We’ll even reach out to their neighbors to let them know what we’ll be doing to make them aware of any noise or distractions that might occur. It’s important to us to ensure a quality experience from beginning to end.”

Home remodeling projects aren’t an impulse buy. Once they give you an estimate for your project, RJW Exteriors locks in your pricing for a full year, so no matter what market changes that might happen – and let’s face it, inflation is real everywhere – the price won’t change. It’s a guaranteed, sustainable cost.

The goal isn’t to pile up projects and move on. It’s to make sure once a project is completed, the homeowner feels like they’ve had the best possible experience. They’ve made this a goal throughout their nearly 30-year history. One of their clients gushed about what the process was like for her. “It started with an intelligent and non-pressuring spokesperson. Our project was completed by competent, caring, talented and careful workers. We enjoyed working with everyone in the company. In fact, they made us feel like family.”

Call (862) 263-9733 and visit www.rjwexteriors.com

HOME UPDATE | HOME SERVICES 48
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