Fall 2019 SJ Real Estate

REALESTATE South Jersey

FALL 2019 ISSUE

FREE

Autumn Market

Finding the right home.

Flipping houses.

Sprucing up for fall.

Professional organizing.

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SOUTH JERSEY REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE | FALL 2019

ANNE E. KOONS

ANNE E. KOONS ACCREDITED ACCREDITED LUXURY LUXURY HOME SPECIALIST HOME SPECIALIST Licensed in Licensed in NJ PA NJ &&PA

The #1 Agent of the Cherry Hill Home Marketing Center 2017, 2016, 2014-12 The #1 Agent of2018, the Cherry Hill Home NJAR Circle of2017, Excellence Marketing Center 2018, 2016, 2014-12 NJARAward Circle2018, of Excellence PLATINUM 2017, 2016, 2015 PLATINUM Award 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015 GOLD Award 2014, 2013 GOLD Award 2014, 2013 Direct 856-795-4709 Direct 856-795-4709 Office 856-428-8000 ext 142 Office 856-428-8000 ext 142 akoonsbhhs@gmail.com akoonsbhhs@gmail.com www.annekoonsrealestate.com www.annekoonsrealestate.com

Cherry Hill/Wilderness Run Beautiful contemporary home w/ professional landscaped grounds backing to woods for total privacy. 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 3 car garage, study or 5th bedroom, 2 staircases andRun 2ndBeautiful floor laundry.

Newer hardwood Cherry Hill/Wilderness contemporary home w/ floors throughout 1st floor,grounds newer roof, gorgeous newer professional landscaped backing to woods for mstr total bath w/large shower & 2.5 soaking andgarage, newer powder privacy.

4 bedrooms, baths,tub 3 car study orroom.

5th Cathedral ceiling & stone fireplace in the family room w/sliding bedroom, 2 staircases and 2nd floor laundry.

Newer island, hardwood doors to rear deck. Large custom kitchen with center floors throughout 1stsubzero floor, newer mstr granite counter tops, refrigroof, plusgorgeous additionalnewer freezer bath w/large shower soaking double tub andovens, newer loads powder drawers, 5 burner wolf&cooktop, of room. storage & openceiling to the family room.

Large deck accessible Cathedral & stone fireplace in rear the family room w/sliding from living, dining, family room.with center island, doors to rear deck.kitchen Large and custom kitchen Realistically priced at 649,000

Marlton Gorgeous custom 3-bedroom, 2.5 bath home backing to the Preserves at Little Mill golf course with a 1st floor master suite, 2 car garage and full unfinished basement. The large foyer has cathedral ceilings ceramic floors and is open to the 2-story family room which has custom Marlton Gorgeouscenter, customgas 3-bedroom, bath home the built entertainment fireplace,2.5 ceramic floors,backing French to 4 panel sliding doors to golf the back deck a spectacular Preserves atleading Little Mill course withwith a 1st floor masterview suite,of2the cargolf course. eat-in Kitchen has 42” Double, ovens, 5 ceilings burner garage The and Large full unfinished basement.

Thecabinets large foyer has cathedral stove top, with ceramic counter-tops, backsplash and floors.

The dining ceramic floors and is open to the 2-story family room which has custom room has built-ins, ceramic floors, recessed lights and tray ceiling. The built entertainment center, gas fireplace, ceramic floors, French 4 panel study/den is also on the first floor with a cozy window seat, built-in book sliding doors leading to the back deck a spectacular viewhas of the golf shelves and double door entrance.

Thewith 1st floor master suite a double course.

The Large eat-in Kitchen has 42” cabinets ovens, and 5 burner door entrance, decorative custom paint, tray ceiling,Double, walk-in-closet wall closet.

The with master bath has a corner shower, whirlpool tub, cathedral stove top, ceramic counter-tops, backsplash and floors.

The dining ceiling, double vanity and water closet.

2 additional bedrooms are located room has built-ins, ceramic floors, recessed lights and tray ceiling.

The on the second flooron with jack andwith Jill Bath. homeseat, elegantly study/den is also theafirst floor a cozyThis window built-indecorated book with a great floor plan, in a great location. Realistically priced at $499,900

Cherry Hill/Short Hills This magnificent Coventry Model home has 4 bedrooms, 4.5 Baths, 3 car garage, full finished basement with an open flowing floor plan and is located on a private cul-de-sac. Walk through the front doors to the 2 story foyer w/HW floors, a large arch window above and is open to the formal living room and Dining Room with large decorative pillars, faux painted walls, crown and chair rail molding and custom front accent arch windows. The 2 story family room has 2 stories of windows, a gas/wood fireplace surrounded by a 2 story stone wall. The Large eat in kitchen is filled with Cherry Hill/Short Hills This magnificent Coventry Model is home has light with center island breakfast bar. The master bedroom huge with his and her closets, vanityfull and custom bath. 3 addi4 bedrooms, 4.5 Baths,make-up 3 car garage, finished basement with an tional are plan on the second floor.on The basement is finished openbed-room flowing floor and is located a private cul-de-sac.

Walk with a full bath, 2 offices, entertainment room, exercise room and through the front doors to the 2 story foyer w/HW floors, a large arch tons of storage. Realistically Priced at $699,900.

Voorhees/Sturbridge Woods Updated 4-bedroom, 3.5 bath, 2 car garages, finished basement, located on a private cult-de -sac in the desirable community of Sturbridge woods. Updated kitchen w/ceramic floors, center island breakfast bar w/5 burner gas stove & granite counter-tops. There is a small 1 st fl. office, dining rm w/butler pantry, Living rm, family rm w/gas fireplace. Large master bedroom w/ WIC, cathedral ceiling, office, a 2-sided fireplace, & a beautifully updated master bath.

3 additional bedrooms & hall bath are on the 2nd fl. bath, The Voorhees/Sturbridge Woods Updated 4-bedroom, 3.5 basement is finished w/abasement, media room, full bath, & 2 car garages, finished located on abonus privaterm cult-de exercise rm.desirable This home is in moveofinSturbridge condition,woods. tastefully -sac in the community Updatpainted & decorated, and is conveniently located near major ed kitchen w/ceramic floors, center island breakfast bar w/5 highways and shopping.

Realistically Priced at $619,000. st

Voorhees/Sturbridge Estates Pristine & Elegant expanded Danbury model home has 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, formal living rm & dining rm, family rm, sunroom, 1st Fl office, 3 car garage, full basement located on a 1/2 acre manicured lot. A large eat in kitchen w/center island, granite counter-tops, newer stainless steel appliances that opens to a large dining area with Fireplace & patio doors leading to the light filled sunroom. The family rm has a fireplace, cathedral ceilings, Voorhees/Sturbridge Estates Pristinebedroom & Elegant expanded Hardwood Fls & Skylights.

The master suite has a sitting area, hugehome closet and bath.3.5 The roof, formal gutters, Danbury model has 4 newer bedrooms, baths, HVAC, hot& water & pwder rm are all newer. living rm diningheaters rm, family rm, sunroom, 1st Fl office, 3 car Realistically priced 744,900.

MOORESTOWN Magnificent estate on 7 acres with it’s own private pond. Long, private drive takes you to this 6BR, 6 full bath custom home w/ 3 FP. Gourmet Kitchen. Master Suite w/ private balcony & spiral staircase to Main floor Atrium, indoor pool/spa & 10 person Jacuzzi. Library w/ built-ins & FP. Great Room/LR w/ pass-thru FP & custom built-ins. Main floor Gym. Blue stone & brick patio, 3 car heated garage & detached barn w/ kitchenette & 1/2 bath. Brand new Cedar Shake roof, new AC. Realistically priced at $1,395,000

Cherry Hill/Woodcrest This amazing architecturally designed home has 6 Bedrooms, 4 full baths, 2 half baths, walk-out finished basement & a 3-car garage that is nestled on an acre of property that backs to Woodcrest Golf course. As you walk through the double door entrance into the vast foyer you will notice the natural light & spacious open design that is found throughout this custom home. 1st floor you will find formal living and dining rm, large eat-in custom kitchen, family rm with fireplace, guest bedroom w/private bath & a large laundry room/mud room. The 2nd level has a large master suite, w/separate dressing area, a custom bath with, jacuzzi tub, shower, double vanities, & sauna. 4 additional bedrooms, with a hall bath and Jack-n Jill bath & walk in cedar closet are on the 2nd fl.

This home is very secluded & is in a great neighborhood located near all major highways. Realistically priced at $695,000

Moorestown An amazing, truly unique 4 bedroom, 5 ½ bath with gourmet kitchen, full finished walk out basement, 2 car garage with theater on the second level, a tennis-basketball court, builtin pool with slide, hot-tub and waterfalls, and a covered out-door kitchen & bar which is nestled on a resort like profession-ally landscaped two acre property. Newer Hardwood Floors in Living, dining, family and office. The eat in kitchen has ceramic floors, granite tops, high-end appliances, custom cabinetry and a large center island. The 2nd floor has the master bedroom suite, a princess suite & 2 additional bedrooms. In the basement you will find a custom wet bar located in a large entertainment rm, gym, full bath and storage areas. This home has multi zoned radiant heat on the 1st & 2nd fls. Realistically priced at $1,359,000.

Cherry Hill/Wilderness Acres Welcome to the quiet community of Wilderness Acres that hosts this architectural jewel with 3 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, 2 car garage, in ground Cherry Acres the cathedral quiet compool, walkHill/Wilderness out basement, an openWelcome floor plantowith ceilings, 2 story windows, skylights, newly hardmunity of Wilderness Acres that hosts thisrefinished architectural wood painted interior jewelfloors, with 3freshly bedrooms, 3.5through-out baths, 2 carthe garage, in and ground exterior that is situated on almost an acre of property. The pool, walk out basement, an open floor plan with cathedral master bedroom suite is located on the second floor with a ceilings, 2 story windows, skylights, newly refinished hardsitting area, screened in balcony, his and hers built-in closet wood floors, painted through-out thealong interior and organizers andfreshly she has a walk-in.

New roof with newer Hvac. exterior thatRealistically is situated onPriced almostat an$735,000. acre of property. The

master bedroom suite is located on the second floor with a sitting area, screened in balcony, his and hers built-in closet organizers and she has a walk-in. New roof along with newer Hvac. Realistically Priced at $735,000.

window above and is open to the formal living room and Dining Room with large decorative pillars, faux painted walls, crown and chair rail molding and custom front accent arch windows. The 2 story family room has 2 stories of windows, a gas/wood fireplace surrounded by a 2 story stone wall. The Large eat in kitchen is filled with light with center island breakfast bar. The master bedroom is huge with his and her closets, make-up vanity and custom bath. 3 additional bed-room are on the second floor. The basement is finished with a full bath, 2 offices, entertainment room, exercise room and tons of storage. Realistically Priced at $699,900.

granite counter tops, subzero refrig plus additional freezer drawers, 5 burner wolf cooktop, double ovens, loads of storage & open to the family room. Large rear deck accessible from living, dining, kitchen and family room.

Realistically priced at 649,000

burner gas stove & granite counter-tops. There is a small 1 fl. office, dining rm w/butler pantry, Living rm, family rm w/gas fireplace. Large master bedroom w/ WIC, cathedral ceiling, office, a 2-sided fireplace, & a beautifully updated master bath. 3 additional bedrooms & hall bath are on the 2nd fl. The basement is finished w/a media room, full bath, bonus rm & exercise rm. This home is in move in condition, tastefully painted & decorated, and is conveniently located near major highways and shopping. Realistically Priced at $619,000.

shelves and double door entrance. The 1st floor master suite has a double door entrance, decorative custom paint, tray ceiling, walk-in-closet and wall closet. The master bath has a corner shower, whirlpool tub, cathedral ceiling, double vanity and water closet. 2 additional bedrooms are located on the second floor with a jack and Jill Bath. This home elegantly decorated with a great floor plan, in a great location. Realistically priced at $499,900

garage, full basement located on a 1/2 acre manicured lot. A large eat in kitchen w/center island, granite counter-tops, newer stainless steel appliances that opens to a large dining area with Fireplace & patio doors leading to the light filled sunroom. The family rm has a fireplace, cathedral ceilings, Hardwood Fls & Skylights. The master bedroom suite has a sitting area, huge closet and newer bath. The roof, gutters, HVAC, hot water heaters & pwder rm are all newer.

Realistically priced 744,900.

Moorestown An amazing, truly unique 4 bedroom, 5 ½ bath with MOORESTOWN Magnificent estate on 7 acres with Cherry Hill/Woodcrest This amazing architecturally designed home gourmet kitchen, full finished walk out basement, 2 car garage has 6 Bedrooms, 4 full baths, 2 half baths, walk-out finished baseThe Long, world according NICOLE & JOSH….. it’s own private pond. private drive takes to youSTEVEN, to with theater on the second level, a tennis-basketball court, builtment & a 3-car garage that is nestled on an acre of property that this 6BR, 6 full bathever, customEXPERIENCE home w/ 3 FP. Gourmet Now more than counts… that is why you need to call our Aunt Anne she in poolbecause with slide, hot-tub andhas waterfalls, and a covered out-door backs to Woodcrest Golf course. As you walk through the double Kitchen.

Master Suite w/ private balcony & spiral PASSION stair- door entrance the EXPERIENCE, COMMITMENT, & KNOWLEDGE help you or& bar buying a home kitchen which is nestled on a resort like profession-ally into the vast foyer you will to notice the natural lightin & selling spacious design that isAnne found throughout custom home.

1st case to Main floorFor Atrium, & 10 perlandscaped two acre property. Newer Hardwood Floors in Living, all indoor your pool/spa Real Estate Needs, giveopen our Aunt a callthistoday at 856-795-4709 dining, family and office. The eat in kitchen has ceramic floors, son Jacuzzi. Library w/ built-ins & FP. Great Room/LR floor you will find formal living and dining rm, large eat-in custom kitchen, family rm with fireplace, guest bedroom w/private bath & a granite tops, high-end appliances, custom cabinetry and a large w/ pass-thru FP & custom built-ins. Main floor Gym. A memberlarge of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates, LLC laundry room/mud room. The 2nd level has a large master center island. The 2nd floor has the master bedroom suite, a Blue stone & brick patio, 3 car heated garage & desuite, w/separate dressing area, a custom bath with, jacuzzi tub, princess suite & 2 additional bedrooms. In the basement you will shower, double vanities, & sauna. 4 additional bedrooms, with a hall tached barn w/ kitchenette & 1/2 bath. Brand new find a custom wet bar located in a large entertainment rm, gym, bath and Jack-n Jill bath & walk in cedar closet are on the 2nd fl. full bath and storage areas. This home has multi zoned radiant Cedar Shake roof, new AC. This home is very secluded & is in a great neighborhood located heat on the 1st & 2nd fls. Realistically priced at $1,359,000.

Realistically priced at $1,395,000 near all major highways. Realistically priced at $695,000

The world according to STEVEN, NICOLE & JOSH…..

Now more than ever, EXPERIENCE counts… that is why you need to call our Aunt Anne because she has

the EXPERIENCE, COMMITMENT, PASSION & KNOWLEDGE to help you in selling or buying a home For all your Real Estate Needs, give our Aunt Anne a call today at 856-795-4709 A member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates, LLC

SOUTH JERSEY REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE | FALL 2019

Jacki Smoyer The Smart Move #1 Mt Laurel Agent* *per 2018 BrightMLS data

MORE THAN $17,500,000 IN 2019 SALES! SOLD

SOLD

6 Lenape Court SOLD/MULTIPLE OFFERS

5 Lancelot Lane SOLD/MULTIPLE OFFERS

SOLD

12 Sarah Court SOLD

2 Tara Drive SOLD

4 Kirkwood Drive

Sold 27 Mt. Laurel Homes to Date in 2019* Sold Listings at 99.3% of Listed Price*

19 Winding Way SOLD

*Source Bright MLS Jan-Aug 2019 Existing Home Sales

858 Lafayette Drive

6 Saddlebury Court

Call me today to sell your home!

Sales Associate | ABR, MRP c 856.296.7226 o 856.235.1950 TheSmartMove.com Jacki@TheSmartMove.com 202 W. Main Street, Moorestown, NJ 08057

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A Fruitful

Fall

The housing E market stays steady during South Jersey autumns

BY KEVIN CALLAHAN

veryone in South Jersey knows this is Eagles’ Country, so Sunday afternoons are reserved for Birds watching.

rule for open houses, but if they have a 4 o’clock game or a late game or a Monday night game, I will go ahead and do the opens then.

The Eagles even reign over the Real Estate industry, which typically reserves Sunday afternoons as prime open house hours.

“But yeah, I definitely don’t want to be competing with the Eagles for people’s attention on a Sunday afternoon.”

“Whenever I schedule my open houses in the fall, I look at the Eagles’ schedule and try to work around it,” Paul Canton, an agent with Long & Foster in Moorestown, said with a chuckle.

“I know that other people don’t want to be out and quite frankly, I’d rather be watching the Eagles’ game, too, at Sunday at 1 o’clock. So yeah I stay away from the 1 o’clock Eagles as a general

However, outside of Eagles games, the fall market for real estate is usually bountiful for both the buyer and seller.

“The spring is always the strong market of the year,” Canton said. “I tell my clients there are two good selling seasons and one is obviously the spring, but the second best time is definitely in the fall.

“In mid-August, it’s kind of a dead zone

SOUTH JERSEY REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE | FALL 2019

‘You Dream It…I’ll Make It Happen’ Achieved a Median 99% of Sellers List Price in Just 20 Days! *based on Bright MLS Jan-Dec 2018

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“Best of the Best! Christine has been with us through 2 Real estate transactions both buying and selling! She is professional, knowledgeable, responsive has a dynamic personality and always makes time for us. We highly recommend Christine for any real estate needs, she does it all big or small! We look forward to working with her again in the future!” -Gwen & Scott P

CHRISTINE DASH

Realtor Associate

513 S. Lenola Rd., Moorestown, NJ 08057 C: 609.332.6266 O: 856.316.1100 christine@dashforhomes.com

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SOUTH JERSEY REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE | FALL 2019

REAL ESTATE South Jersey

FALL 2019 ISSUE

COO

PERRY CORSETTI PUBLISHER

ARLENE REYES EDITOR

KRISTEN DOWD SALES MANAGER

BRITTANY ROUGHT

FRUITFUL CONT. – Moorestown turns into a ghost town when everybody is travelling and going places, but it’s funny, once people get the kids back into school, that week after Labor Day, you suddenly see an uptick. They get back into school and start to get settled and right around mid-September is when I say is the second best selling season starts.

“And it usually lasts through the end of October to early November,” Canton added. “People really don’t like to be moving around the holidays unless they have to, so you will see pretty good activity mid-September through early November.”

Pat Settar, a Realtor with Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Fox & Roach Realtors in Mullica Hill, emphasized the spring is the best time to move real estate also.

“The spring housing market does absolutely see the most activity since this is typically the most inventory,” Settar said.

“In t h e autumn t y p i cally we see a decrease in actual closed sales of approximately 18 percent.”

However, Settar doesn’t discount the fall for sellers who want to sell their home. In fact, she sees an advantage.

“Autumn brings solid home buyers and it’s the best time for the relocation market,” she said. “If a seller is considering selling, I’d advise to not wait until next spring to do so. The rates are low and there are plenty of buyers waiting for that perfect home right now.

“Currently we are experiencing a healthy market for sellers,” she added.

Although the market is healthy for sellers, the market isn’t currently flooded.

“The inventory is low and we are experiencing highest and best bid scenarios for the very well maintained homes,” Settar said.

As for pricing, she says, “Due to low inventory, home prices have inched up, but interest rates are still very low for buyers.”

Bart Middleman, a Realtor with Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Fox & Roach in Haddonfield, under-

SPECIAL PROJECTS MANAGER

GIANNA DʼANGELO ACCOUNT MANAGERS

GAIL BRUNO RECEL JOVELLANOS MEGAN MUDD KAREN RODIER MARKETING CONSULTANTS

PERRY CORSETTI JR. TESSA LEONE ALESSANDRA KRAATZ CASEY MEGLINO JUSTIN TROYANO CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

KEVIN CALLAHAN CARL DIORIO REBECCA L. FORAND GRACE MAIORANO ANDREW ROWAN LAYOUT & DESIGN

KIMBERLY KRAUSS South Jersey Real Estate is a publication of Newspaper Media Group 130 Twinbridge Drive, Pennsauken, NJ 08110 856.282.1347 sunsales@ newspapermediagroup.com

SOUTH JERSEY REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE | FALL 2019

in and putting new houses on the market, and the recent change for kids from Merchantville being able to attend Haddon Heights High School.”

FRUITFUL CONT.

Middleman also acknowledges the spring is the hot market, but said in Camden County, “there is virtually no bad time to list or buy.”

“August is when a lot of families vacation and it is a bit slower,” Middleman said.

“My opinion is that October through February is a good time to buy and sell.

stands another factor beyond the temperature cooling in the fall for increase sales activity is some areas are just hot.

He sees an uptick in activity in his hometown of Merchantville specifically.

“During this time, most people that list their home must do so, “ he said, citing divorce and job changes as reasons. “It’s a good time for buyers to pick up a good deal.”

“There seems to be a resurgence of younger couples moving in, which is great for the neighborhood,” Middleman said. “This is due to flippers coming

“Lots of buyers, low inventory,” he said. “Haddon Township, for instance, is one of the hottest markets in South Jersey.”

Middleman is also seeing a seller’s market this fall.

AMY CRUTCHFIELD

Canton, who received his real estate license in 2003, began as a custom home builder, so he understands the business of selling and buying homes from both sides. He also sees the seasonal changes in demand.

“There is not much inventory on the market,” Canton said. “A lot what came on the market in the spring cleared out, so I would say, especially here in Moorestown, where is really kind of where I focus my efforts, there is really not a lot out there for people to pick from, so that kind of makes it a seller’s market.”

But Canton added, “If you get a good house and put it up and it is in good shape, they go quickly.”

Which means the prices are holding solid.

“They definitely aren’t going backwards,” Canton said. “My sense is they are definitely stable, if not on the rise.”

And, Canton certainly has good sense – he knows not to have open houses during an Eagles game. ■

JAMES FALVEY

LISA CLARKE

JAMES LACY

KATHERINE NICASTRO

SERVING ALL OF SOUTH JERSEY, PHILADELPHIA AND THE BEACHES. HADDONFIELD OFFICE

OCEAN CITY OFFICE

224 Kings Highway E., Haddonfield, NJ 08033 856.874.8980 office

1 Atlantic Ave. Ocean City, NJ 08226 1.833.LWBEACH office

lwolschina@kw.com lisawolschinaandassociates.com Licensed in NJ and PA

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Keller Williams Realty 409 Route 70 East, Cherry Hill, NJ 08034

Finding the right home for you

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SOUTH JERSEY REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE | FALL 2019

BY REBECCA L. FORAND

Stepping into the housing market can seem like a daunting task. Whether you are looking for your first home, looking to upgrade to something bigger or looking to downsize your home and caretaking responsibilities, options vary and can quickly get overwhelming.

If you prioritize in a few key areas, however, it can be a smooth process.

No matter where you are in life, the first thing a buyer should look at is location.

“The old adage about ‘location, location, location’ is still the number one vehicle when it comes to buying and selling properties,” said Bob Bailey, Broker of Record for Excel Realty and Property Management in Glassboro. “It has so much to do with the value.”

And a good location generally means a good school district. Whether or not you have children who will be attending schools in the district, having a home within a desirable area will allow you to keep value in the home.

“You always want to be in a good school district. The benefit is that people are always going to want to buy in that area.

It is an easier resale and the value should stay up,” Anne Koons, a real estate agent for Berkshire Hathaway Fox and Roach in Cherry Hill, said.

After narrowing your search to an area with a good school system, deciding what kind of home you would like and what kind of neighborhood you want to

TAKE THE QUIZ: Finding the Right Home What type of neighborhood is most important to you?

a. A busy downtown area with lots of shops and restaurants. b. A rural feel with land all around. c. A suburban area with schools and neighbors close by.

How much yard work and outdoor maintenance are you willing to do?

a. Zero. I’d like someone else to take care of the yard, snow removal, etc. b. Bring it on. I am willing to shovel, mow and care for a large amount of property. c. I am ok with yard work but would prefer a smaller area to care for.

How much are you willing to spend on homeowners’ association fees?

a. Whatever it takes to make sure someone is handling maintenance. b. None. I’d rather not pay an association fee. c. I’m not sure. Maybe a little, but it would have to fit into the budget really well.

What is most important to you?

a. Being around a lot of people and activity. b. Having a lot of property. c. Great schools.

How important is resale value to you?

SOUTH JERSEY REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE | FALL 2019

FINDING CONT. be in is the next step.

Options for home types include single family homes, condos and townhouses or age-restricted communities such as over-55 neighborhoods.

“It all circles back to what the person’s wants are,” Nick Jacoby, a Realtor for Excel Realty, said. “Some people want to be close to a downtown area. A lot of small towns are coming back. You have Broadway in Pitman, Haddon Ave. in Collingswood. But some come in and say, ‘I don’t want any neighbors,’ so we put them out in a rural area.”

The benefit of condos, townhouses and age-restricted neighborhoods is the lack of upkeep necessary. Generally, in those types of homes, a homeowners’ association will cover lawn and outside maintenance, as well as occasionally taking care of some issue that may arise inside.

But the monthly fees for those associations can be a big expense.

Hello Fall!

a. It’s not something I’m thinking much about. b. Very important. I would like to sell this property for as much as possible down the road. c. I’m not sure.

If you answered mostly A’s: You might want to look at a town home or condo property. They are generally located closer to downtown areas and they will not require as much upkeep. However, they will require a homeowners’ association fee.

Cynthia Beechler

Sales Associate

Foodie | Cyclist | World Traveler

If you answered mostly B’s: You should look at single family homes in the municipalities you are interested in. They will provide you with more space and more responsibility.

If you answered mostly C’s: Keep your options open. Your preferences could swing either way, so look at all that is available to you.

Quiz created by Rebecca L. Forand

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202 W. Main St. Moorestown, NJ 08057 O: 856.235.1950 C: 732.690.0888

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SOUTH JERSEY REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE | FALL 2019

FINDING CONT. “Most people are concerned about taxes and the cost of a condo itself, but HOAs can be another big bite. It can be anywhere between $100 and $800 a month,” Koons said.

Townhomes and condos are often in more densely populated areas, which could be a benefit or a deterrent, depending on what the buyer is looking for.

“In a town home, the taxes are lower, they are generally located closer to downtown areas and shopping hubs, but some people think it’s just like living in an apartment,” Jacoby said.

FLIPPING HOUSES 101: The do and don’ts for first time flippers If you’re thinking of F flipping a home for

or folks looking to flip houses, starting the pursuit can feel pretty daunting.

the first time, consider these basics before purchasing a property.

But the essentials boil down to one key – having a vision.

BY GRACE MAIORANO

Although Chew, who is based in Moorestown, has been a licensed real estate

For Teri Chew, manager of Rockstar Restorations, those visions started coming to life when she flipped her very first home in Sewell when she was only 19 years old.

In a single family home, the owner is responsible for everything from the hot water heater and the sinks to the yards and trees, however, those things also give the owner the responsibility of maintaining the home’s value, without having to worry about another party impeding on that value.

“You’re more conscious of everything, but you have a little bit of control in building equity in your house,” Bailey said. “It comes back to that pride of ownership. It’s the quality of life, and that is the biggest pro.”

Additionally, in an economic downturn or recession, a single-family home will hold its value more than a condo or a townhouse, according to Koons.

Finally, staying within your budget and working with a Realtor who has your best interests in mind are important reminders.

“As licensed Realtors, we have to be responsible. We don’t want them to be house-poor. It happened a lot in 2005, ’06, ’07. Don’t go beyond your means,” Jacoby said.

“The first thing I do is make sure they are pre-qualified, and we know exactly how much they can spend on a home,” Koons added. “It’s easier today to look for a home than it was even 15 years ago because of the internet and the availability of everything being instant at the consumer’s fingertips. But at the end of the day…it’s about what you like.” ■

SOUTH JERSEY REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE | FALL 2019

FLIPPING CONT. agent for the past year, she’s been investing her time into Rockstar Restorations, a local home renovation, restoration and decorating business, taking years of her flipping experiences to help others create dream homes.

Any property, she stresses, has potential with a positive perspective.

“The number one thing is having a vision,” she said. “Most people – they’ll look for a house, and they really can’t see past a lot of things to see the good things that the house has. If I have a vision for something, no matter how bad the house is – and usually the worse the house the more likely I am to buy it – because those are the ones that I seem to get the best deals on because nobody can see past all of the bad things or the things that it needs.”

Though Chew recommends fixeruppers that need particular assiduity, she says it’s important for first-time “flippers” to only embark on projects within their capability before taking on larger undertakings.

Most early flippers start on properties that just need aesthetic facelifts before delving into the property’s bare bones, including plumbing and electricity.

“If it’s your first flip, you really should start light with maybe something that just needs a little bit of cosmetics, because I see people bite off more than they can chew,” Chew said. “If you take a house that needs everything, you’re going to be overwhelmed, and there’s just too many wheels turning for your first time.”

While aspiring flippers do not need to acquire any specific license to renovate a home, there are a few suggestions they should consider to avoid legal ramifications.

Benjamin Dash, a Moorestown-based commercial litigation, business transaction and real estate attorney, suggests putting newly-purchased properties into an entity, such as a limited liability company to limit any personal liability they might experience.

By putting the property into an LLC, rather than one’s name, the flipper will better protect their assets from being

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FLIPPING CONT.

concealed issue until after they’ve moved into the house and begin living there,” he said. “That’s generally the biggest risk a flipper is going to have.”

“The transaction would be owned by a company, as opposed to the individual,” he said. “So, if, for example, a lawsuit were to occur, the individual would not be sued but the entity that owns the property would be sued instead.”

Though flippers can renovate without a licensed contractor, Dash suggests investing in home improvement contractors licensed in the state of New Jersey, particularly when investing in construction permits from municipalities.

personally exposed.

Dash says this incident is one of the most common legal mistakes made during the flipping process.

Flippers concealing a major renovation problem is another blunder he often sees. For example, a common occurrence includes ignoring major issues, such as mold, with temporary fixes, such as paint.

“Ultimately, the individual that bought the house doesn’t find out about the

Chew says in “the age of information,” gaining knowledge of renovation techniques is more accessible now than ever.

But, she, too, echoes Dash’s thoughts regarding seeking out contractors, especially when handling the property’s utilities.

“You want to make sure you know that the people that you hire – whether they’ve been recommended by several people – that you get the right crew that’s going to do quality work and get permits for everything,” she said.

“...You’re going to need someone licensed who knows how to do (utilities,) because you’ll continue to get rejected on your permit if you don’t provide the right information.”

While seeking the right homes to flip, Chew says houses with more character are most popular because people gravitate toward the vintage and classic styles. However, flippers, generally, don’t want to inherit problems that come with those older homes.

The objective, then, is determining how to transform an older property into a contemporary home, offering modern conveniences while still keeping its character.

She also suggests avoiding the trend and sticking to timeless designs.

Chew says the key lies in one thing – the details.

“Paying attention to details, which is really what I’m known for,” she said.

“I’m very detailed with the houses that I renovate. I take certain things to the next level because people notice that and when they see that there’s all these wonderful details...To me, it’s all about the details.” ■

SOUTH JERSEY REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE | FALL 2019

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SOUTH JERSEY REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE | FALL 2019

Set the

STAGE

SOUTH JERSEY REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE | FALL 2019

15

Buying?

Selling? Let the professionals help you get organized

organizer for help, said South Jersey native Ellen Faye, Past President of the National Association of Productivity and Organizing Professionals.

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When looking to hire an organizer, Faye said homeowners should think about the services they personally need. Using NAPO.net’s online search tool, homeowners can find local organizers and read about their specialties.

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rofessional organizers can be a tremendous asset in nearly any setting: from making better task lists to learning basic spatial organizing skills and everything in between.

“It is never too early and it is never too late” to reach out to a professional

Professional organizers offer “judgmentfree assistance” by supporting “evaluation, decision-making, and action” around personal belongings to reach “desired outcomes regarding function, order, and clarity,” reads the NAPO website.

NAPO certification separates a neighborhood hobbyist from a professional through a rigorous certification exam and continuing professional development. Most NAPO members have liability insurance.

“We all have niches,” said Faye. “Pick two to three people that seem to offer the services you are looking for and I would call them.”

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SOUTH JERSEY REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE | FALL 2019

STAGE CONT.

Faye said free phone call consultations are standard in the industry. “We want to be sure that our skills and personalities match, too.”

Professional organizers are trained to “teach and transfer skills so that clients … apply all of the knowledge and experience they gain from working with us,” said Geri Chark Frankel, President and Owner of GCF Organizing.

To ensure this, Frankel always comes to her sessions with written “skills and tips” that are relevant to the client’s challenge. Over time, the client builds a manifesto they can access repeatedly long after the sessions.

For those nearly ready to list their home, Frankel recommends taking photos and videos room-byroom for memory and reference purposes. When it is time to move out, she recommends having a designated staging area for all supplies, such as boxes, tape and labels. Then, go room-by-room and decide what items will be purged, donated or brought to the new home.

For time-intensive tasks such as boxes of printed photos, Frankel advises to not begin sorting them before the move and wait until afterward when there is more time.

To ease the move, Frankel recommends a homeowner pack their suitcases as if they were renting a home down the shore for two weeks. They would need enough clothing to forgo laundry, plus very basic kitchen and bathroom supplies.

This way, “the pressure is off at the beginning of the first week,” said Frankel. “It’s a nice time to get organized … and set up your space.”

If homeowners have the right time frame, Frankel recommends starting a home inventory, which is helpful for insurance purposes and eventual downsizing. This can be accomplished on a legal pad, spreadsheet or a smartphone application.

Moving-in gives homeowners a fresh start, so she encourages them to think in zones when finding places for their belongings. Zone one is the most frequently used items, zone two is often and zone three is occasionally.

If a homeowner was unpacking a kitchen, cooking utensils would go in zone one on a counter, brownie pans would go in zone two cabinets and a turkey roaster would go in a less accessible zone three location.

Frankel and Faye concurred that anyone can benefit from the help of a professional organizer.

“Even an organized person can get better,” said Frankel. “One small change can really make a huge difference in your day-to-day operational life.” ■

SOUTH JERSEY REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE | FALL 2019

17

Thank You

51 MO c: o: ch

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to our

Expert Contributers

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This beautiful 1889 Victorian Estate is only 3 blocks away from charming Main Street of Moorestown. Upon entry, welcoming grand foyer with voluminous 10 foot ceilings, onto the grand parlor, formal dining room, sweeping staircase and four season sunroom. Guest Carriage House located on the property including a 3 car garage plus covered parking.

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SOUTH JERSEY REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE | FALL 2019

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SOUTH JERSEY REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE | FALL 2019

Sprucing Up for fall

SOUTH JERSEY REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE | FALL 2019

Local pros give a green thumbs up to outdoor improvements

BY CARL DIORIO

F

or those considering outdoor upgrades for residential properties this fall, know this: Realty and landscaping professionals say the money is well-invested.

“You can think, conservatively, about a return of about 10 to 20 percent

Sales Associate, Realtor

above the amount you put into landscaping a property,” estimated Philip “Pip” Haxby-Thompson, a sales associate at JFKLiving/Weichert Realtors in Haddonfield “Good curb appeal is very important,” he said. “So, anything you can do to improve the front landscaping is fantastic.”

This advice applies whether outlays total in the hundreds or thousands of dollars.

Starting at the lower end of expenditures, property pros stress tidying up yards for the fall. Especially for homeowners looking to sell a property, be sure to keep lawns well-trimmed and free of leaves or browns spots, they urge.

And maybe add some new flowers.

“Chrysanthemums and ornamental cabbage are good,” Haxby-Thompson suggested.

Flower pots on the porch can be a nice touch, in addition to adding seasonally appropriate new plantings to flowerbeds.

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SOUTH JERSEY REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE | FALL 2019

SPRUCE CONT.

“Fall is mums time, and the mum is not an expensive plant,” noted Tom Measey, a garden and landscaping specialist at McNaughton’s Garden Center in Cherry Hill. “For the fall, you want flowers that will take a light frost and go up to about Thanksgiving.”

Any time up through mid-October “is a perfect time to reseed your lawn,” he added.

Lime, seed and fertilizer for a typical lawn generally will cost under $100, Measey estimated.

“Depending on what your shrubs look like, you might want to trim them and add some mulching,” he said. “All that really does add curb appeal. I recently ran into a customer who told me how the landscaping he did with my help had helped sell his prop-

erty. We love it when people come in for advice like that.”

Measey tells homeowners willing to lay out upward of $200 for a beautiful, if smallish, tree, that the weeping Japanese maple is “what I call a ‘money plant,’ because it brings back such big dividends.”

Japanese maples are dwarf trees that are already about 10 years old when purchased.

“But it just keeps getting better every year, and it really does add to the value of your property,” Measey said.

Dwarf trees in general are part of a trend toward low-maintenance plantings, said Michelle Jerrell of Jerrell’s Landscapes & Nurseries in Moorestown.

“They don’t grow as tall as other trees, so there is less pruning and less maintenance,” she explained.

Other popular plantings include fruit trees, vegetable shrubs and herbs.

“Your trees are always going to be more expensive than shrubs, and shrubs are more expensive than herbs,” Jerrell said.

In addition to landscaping, other sorts of outdoor improvements also often can be both inexpensive and impactful.

Property pros suggest

painting the front door and shutters as part of a fall spruce-up. Some go so far as to suggest colors: Studies have shown black and dark gray often elicit the best response from prospective homebuyers.

A front door wreath is considered good as well.

“Clear your gutters,” Weichert’s HaxbyThompson advised. “And then, where there has been a problem with drainage, re-grade the drainage slope and extend your downspouts.”

Expenditures for “hardscaping” – which includes adding decks or patios, and repaving driveways or walkways – are said to bring an even bigger return than landscaping, at 20 percent to 30 percent.

(Estimates on return-on-investment can vary for landscaping and hardscaping, but all agree it is generally money well spent.)

The lowest return comes on swimming pools, which can be expensive to install and even to maintain – making some prospective homebuyers uninterested in the amenity.

Gazebos, on the other hand, are widely admired. Popular options include pergola-style installations, featuring wooden slats over the top to offer shade.

Another possibility for gazebo features would be some screening to keep out mosquitos.

“More ambitious projects include installing an outdoor kitchen, but con-

SPRUCE CONT.

sidering the seasons in South Jersey, that may not be the greatest investment,” Haxby-Thompson said. “But a fire pit is a great idea for fall and can help you enjoy the cooler temperatures with the change in season.”

Some outdoor lighting can be a nice touch, he added. The simplest approach involves inexpensive battery-operated solar-powered lanterns.

Or you can have circuitry installed, considered sure to add value to a property. Lighting boasting copper or brass finishes is also among the more upscale approaches.

As for setting a budget for your fall spruce-up project, Haxby-Thompson suggested 5 percent to 10 percent of current property value.

“Of course, if it’s a home you are going to remain in and enjoy for a while, then there’s nothing wrong with spending whatever you’d like,” he added. “But if you are going to be moving in the foreseeable future, a fixed budget is best.” ■

SOUTH JERSEY REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE | FALL 2019

23

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