FALL 2020 SJ RE GUIDE

SOUTH JERSEY REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE | FALL 2020

REALESTATE South Jersey

FREE

FALL 2020 ISSUE

In this is sue; Virtual Home

Tours Realto . rs & So cial Me Holida dia. y Deco r a t i ng.

Digital Mortg ages.

Smart Home s.

Autumn MARKET

1

2

SOUTH JERSEY REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE | FALL 2020

Home sweet virtual home

With help from drones, cameras and live video walk-throughs, Realtors can utilize virtual home tours to help both buyers and sellers

BY KELLY FLYNN

N

Do you have questions about the selling process?

Wondering how much your home is worth?

Call or email to find out more!

Let my 25+ years of EXPERIENCE WORK FOR YOU! BARBARA NELSON NEVILLE BROKER • SALES ASSOCIATE

(856) 228-7900 5001 Route 42 Turnersville, NJ 08012 www.realtor.com | CoreReal Estate@gmail.com NM-00436523

ancy Kowalik of Nancy Kowalik Real Estate Group admits when the COVID-19 pandemic first hit, both she and her sellers held their breath as their buyers purchased a home without seeing it in person. They’d viewed the home online, but the first time the buyers walked through the door was for the inspection.

Now, this is less and less unusual with virtual home tours becoming something of the norm. While real estate agencies were already utilizing virtual home tour technology, local agents stress virtual tours are utilized now more than ever before with buyers viewing fewer homes in person (if at all).

Kowalik said her agency employs a variety of technological options to give sellers the best views of a home. Drones can provide overhead visuals of both the inside and outside of a home. When showcasing the interior of a home, they’ll utilize high definition body cameras to walk through a house.

Prior to the pandemic, many agencies were already utilizing Matterport, a please see VIRTUAL, page 4

Buying? Selling?

Let’s Talk!

Melissa Morfin Broker Associate

www.MelissaMorfin.com | MMorfin@weichert.com C: 609.502.2201 O: 856.235.1950 202 W. Main Street, Moorestown, NJ 08057

4

SOUTH JERSEY REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE | FALL 2020

VIRTUAL

continued from page 2

camera that facilitates the creation of a 3D home tour. Cynthia Beechler, a real estate agent with Weichert, said the Matterport tour is one of the best tastes of a space that a buyer can get. Using Matterport technology, prospective buyers can virtually “stand” in the middle of a room, move around and zoom in on different aspects of a space.

However, buyers shouldn’t hesitate to go beyond the pre-packaged virtual showings. Kowalik said no seller is going to show all of the nooks and crannies of a home. So, she encourages house hunters to get on Facetime or Zoom with their agent and “walk” through the space. She said this allows buyers to ask the agent to go look under the sink or take them to the hot water heater.

She said Zoom and Facetime are incredible resources for providing the missing puzzle pieces for buyers and making them feel more comfortable. Her agents can ask “What else haven’t you seen that I can show you?” or can quickly respond to questions about how many outlets are

in a room. She also encourages buyers to go for a drive around the neighborhood if they can.

As for sellers, the same basic rules apply to a virtual format as any in-person showing, according to Beechler.

She said homes should be well staged and showcase the home – not the items in it.

She encourages sellers to have good lighting and to have someone describe the home as they’re walking through it. She stressed it’s important to have someone talk about the features of a house as they’re walking through and to provide a variety of angles to give sellers a sense of the home’s layout.

Kowalik stressed sellers still need to be making updates to their home as well. Right now, sellers are looking for project-free homes. She said they want to move into homes that are up-to-date, and so her agents encourage sellers to do things like take down their wallpaper and drapes and update the appliances.

While agents can show nearly every

Voted #1 Best Class

Mention The Sun and Get the Best Price Guaranteed

2019

24

HOUR

QUALITY WORKMANSHIP, SPECIALIZING IN

Shingle • Flat Roof • Metal Roofs New Roofs • Re-Roofs • Roof Repairs Masonry Restoration • Chimney Repairs Emergency Service Siding • Windows • Doors

Office 609-531-5061 Cell 856-882-8421 We’ve Got Your World Covered A DIVISION OF WORLD CONTRUCTION NJ LLC

NM-00437685

For that reason, she and her team are still willing to show homes in person.

She said buyers are meeting her with masks on, and she’ll provide booties and gloves.

“You just don’t know until they walk into that house because it’s that feeling,” Kowalik said. “It’s just like anything else; it looks really great, but how does it make you feel? A house – there’s really not a bigger investment you can make.”

For many, the virtual home tours serve as a process through which to weed out homes, according to Kowalik. She said prior to the pandemic, the average buyer would view somewhere between 10 and 12 homes in person, but now, they’re viewing closer to four or five before making an offer.

Financing Available

SIDING & WINDOWS

aspect of a home, Kowalik concedes there is one thing they can’t convey to buyers: how a home makes them feel.

She said the first 10 seconds of walking into a home are critical to a buyer’s impression of a space. A buyer may love what they see in photos or online, but may step foot in a home and not have quite the same feeling.

Owner Operated for 20 Years Fully Insured & Licensed #13VH11028100

Follow us on Facebook World Roofing

Get Two Legitimate Estimates …and we guarantee the lowest price

Beechler said virtual tours are a winwin for all parties involved amid the pandemic. For buyers, it can give them a sense of home to narrow down their choices, and for sellers, the tours ensure that only those with a serious interest are touring their homes in person.

In her mind, there’s no doubt that the pandemic has shifted the home buying process.

“I think this has changed because of COVID, but I don’t think it’s going away,” Beechler said. “I think there’s many options that we have now to give buyers everything they need before deciding on coming to see the home.” ■

REAL ESTATE South Jersey

SPRING 2020 ISSUE

‘You Dream It…I’ll Make It Happen’

‘You Dream It…I’ll Make It Happen’ Achieved a Median 99% of

a Median 99% of Sellers Achieved List Price in Just 15 Days!

COO

*based onList Bright MLS Jan-Dec Sellers Price in2019 Just 15 Days!

PERRY CORSETTI & armace! h C Gr

Hot!

ply g!

Sim nnin Stu

Ou Oa tdoo sis r

ARLENE REYES

Co Fa mp mil ou y nd

PUBLISHER

*basedbeen on Bright Jan-Dec 2019 There has never a MLS better time to list &Market sell!

This Sellers Remains

EDITOR

KRISTEN DOWD BRITTANY ROUGHT LEAD ACCOUNT MANAGER

AMANDA PHILLIPS

701 Borton Landing Rd. 729 Kings Highway Moorestown Moorestown !

D L !

SO OLD S

3 Whitetail Court 733 Yorktown Lane Moorestown Moorestown CO UN NT DE RA R CT !

SALES MANAGER

D!

L SO

ACCOUNT MANAGER

TESSA LEONE JUSTIN TROYANO

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

KEVIN CALLAHAN KELLY FLYNN REBECCA L. FORAND MADELEINE MACCAR RACHEL SIMPSON LAYOUT & DESIGN

KIMBERLY KRAUSS

!

LD

SO

*1 Sunset Court 1 Whitetail Court Moorestown Moorestown

D!

L SO

*520 Bartram Road 275-277 Main St Moorestown Moorestown TR R AC T!

MARKETING CONSULTANT

Op Gr po ea rtu t CO UN nity D N E

MEGAN MUDD

166 Brentwood Drive 4 Trillium Lane Mt. Mt. 311Laurel N. Stanwick 10 Laurel Albany Rd. Inventory is LOW! I have buyers looking in your area.

Moorestown Marlton Please call if you or someone you know and is ready sell.

Theme market continues to grow staytostrong!

We will continue to take the necessary precautions and well-being of our clients. *Rep. Buyer for the safety CHRISTINE DASH Realtor Associate

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

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

South Jersey Real Estate is a publication of Newspaper Media Group 2 Executive Campus Suite 135 Cherry Hill, NJ 08002 856.779.3800 x6837 sunsales@ newspapermediagroup.com

08108 COMING FALL 2020

Call For Advertising (856) 779-3800 x6837

Getting social Realtors are relying on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and more to market their brand

BY KEVIN CALLAHAN

T fun.

he Instagram video looks like it could’ve been posted by a family enjoying some backyard summer

A man in a suit jacket and slacks is holding the patio door when another man wearing only a knee length bathing suit and holding a fancy cocktail glass runs out of the house and leaps feet-first into the built-in pool. Not a drop spills from the drink as the popping music blares, “how do you like that?”

The cool and refreshing video was the clever production of real estate agent Philip “Pip” Haxby-Thompson, who leads JFKLiving’s Marketing department.

“What we’ve been doing is creating these kind of wacky marketing videos, the last one we did was a house in Haddonfield where we were jumping in the swimming pool and running around serving please see SOCIAL, page 7

SOUTH JERSEY REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE | FALL 2020

SOCIAL

continued from page 6

cocktails,” Haxby-Thompson explained proudly.

Haxby-Thompson and other Realtors are engaging with clients by using social media for interactive activities, virtual events and to promote their personalities.

A native of England who has been living in the United States for five years, Haxby-Thompson calls himself the “matchmaker” as he enjoys matching families to their dream home.

The matches are often made with the buyer first meeting their future home on a computer screen.

“We’re very heavy on social media,” Haxby-Thompson said. “We use several social media accounts: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, TikTok and YouTube.

We use a whole plethora of social media.

We’ve been using social media for over three years now.”

Haxby-Thompson, who specializes in Haddonfield, acknowledged that the novel coronavirus nudged him into using social media for business even more.

“That was kind of a pivotal moment for us,” Haxby-Thompson said. ”When the lockdown came, obviously we were unable to see people, so what we’ve done is live-stream over multiple platforms at the same time like on Facebook and YouTube.”

Weichert, has grown her business with her vast marketing skills. And now, the use of social media is part of her arsenal.

The Cherry Hill resident of more than 30 years employs Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter to connect with clients, using social media to “increase engagement.”

Arcano cited that she uses short videos as well. Her strategy includes to “add relevant hash tags, post frequently and share valuable content.”

Using positive referrals to build her

business over her career, which includes finding distressed homes to scanning the luxury market. Arcano holds several live-stream events through Facebook.

“I enjoy showing my authentic side while promoting my brand,” Arcano said about using social media. “ A business is built when people know, like, and trust you.”

Joshua Wilton, of Moorestown, is the Director of Management Development with Weichert Realtors. With more than please see SOCIAL, page 8

Fall Maintenance Tips

by Cynthia Clean & Inspect Chimney Clean Gutters Prepare Yard Inspect Heating System Caulk Windows & Doors

The lockdown also forced real estate agents to find other venues to reach buyers and sellers.

“We’ve done some webinars, we’ve had a buyer seminar and we’ve done that over Zoom and we’ve done some virtual presentations, so yeah we’ve had some successful virtual events as well,” HaxbyThompson said.

Haxby-Thompson is JFKLiving’s “resident videographer.”

“What we’re trying to do now is promote what the agents are doing behind the scenes, like throughout the day we will put a 15 second video up or pictures,” Haxby-Thompson said. “We’re trying to let people see what we’re doing and we’re trying to make it more personal now and that has been huge and is picking up right now.”

Lisa Arcano, a real estate agent with

7

Cynthia Beechler Sales Associate Foodie | Cyclist | World Traveler

O: 856.235.1950 C: 732.690.0888

202 W. Main St. Moorestown, NJ 08057

8

SOUTH JERSEY REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE | FALL 2020

SOCIAL

would be easier,” Wilton said.

18 Years of Real Estate experience and more than $2 billion in Real Estate transactions, he also subscribes to people choosing people first.

“The associates use their platforms to connect with their clients, their future customers, potential buyers,” Wilton said. “It’s actually highly effective and the associates seem to enjoy it.

continued from page 7

“Our corporate philosophy when we opened in 1969 was ‘people buy people before they buy product or service,’” Wilton, a broker manager for more than 16 years, said.

Wilton, a coach in the Princeton Little League as well as on the Board of Directors, understands connection with people isn’t just done at the ball fields, around the neighborhood and in the office anymore.

“Through social media it allows people to connect if they can’t get in here, or it

Wilton said social media “is a pretty significant part of their workday.”

“There are a lot of different strategies that fall under the social media umbrella, it’s a fun platform engaging and it does bring results to you at the end of the day.”

Wilton’s associates use “virtual conferences, virtual showings, virtual meetings.”

“We’re actually closing properties virtually,” he said. “You can close on your computer, on your iPad and your device.”

And, using social media isn’t as time consuming as it seems.

“We have a platform that will set up your entire week’s postings for you,” Wilton said. “So we use that and that’s cost-effective and it’s easy for people to engage in.”

Using social media, even whacky videos, also has been effective for HaxbyThompson.

“We also have some behind the scenes that we promote on Instagram,” HaxbyThompson said. “We’ve had several people who have said that they love the videos we make.”

The leap into the pool video especially made a big splash.

“We got people actually reaching out to us about that property by just putting it out on Instagram.” ■

­ ­ ­ ­

10

SOUTH JERSEY REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE | FALL 2020

Staging aforhome the holidays

NM-00438663

11

SOUTH JERSEY REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE | FALL 2020

BY MADELEINE MACCAR

D

ropping temperatures, changing leaves, earlier sunsets: They all mean fall is right around the corner. And the changing seasons mean decorating for the cooler seasons’ holidays.

Those who are preparing, or staging, their homes for open houses and attracting potential buyers have a fine line to walk between being overwhelmingly festive and tastefully restrained as they present a picturesque image encouraging future residents to see themselves as the next family making holiday memories there for years to come.

Missy Giannetto of Compass Real Estate’s Moorestown location has worked in the industry for more than a decade and has seen a parade of decor trends come and go and return.

“I think it’s always a really nice touch to have holiday decorations,” she said.

“I think it definitely makes potential buyers who come through feel like they

could be living in that house, celebrating, picturing the special times they could have there.”

While she says that it’s not her place to tell clients how to decorate their own living spaces, her roughly 11 years of experience have taught her how to helpfully guide sellers as they stage their homes for the holidays.

“I think it’s important to be tasteful and not over-the-top,” Giannetto said.

“You want to put your own touches on the home you’re still living in, but you do want to keep in mind that you are trying to sell your house. You still want to keep things as neat and organized as possible.”

As pandemic restrictions abate, Giannetto said that showings have become less virtual and more in-person again: “People are getting out of their houses. It’s full-speed ahead with real estate again.”

She says that some sellers do love going all-out for Halloween. But for those who are looking for a more understated, please see STAGING, page 13

WORK WITH EXPERTS WHO KNOW YOUR MARKET! Imani Realty & Associates Committed...Driven...Experience

Imani Realty & Associates 300 Campbell Drive Suite 1 Willingboro, NJ 08046 office: (609) 877-9000 www.imanirealtors.com NM-00422342

12

SOUTH JERSEY REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE | FALL 2020

Schedule your fall aeration and seeding today!

Family Owned and Operated Since 1981

Sod Installation | Lawn Fertilization | Tick/Flea Control | Mosquito Control | Core Aeration & Seeding | Weed Control

609.268.2200 | www.sodservicesllc.com 15 Park Drive, Shamong, NJ 08088

SOUTH JERSEY REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE | FALL 2020

STAGING

Audubon - 163 Cornell Rd.

Cherry Hill - 12 Colwick Rd.

Cherry Hill - Glenperth Ln.

Cherry Hill - 22 Inskeep Ct.

Cherry Hill - 1209 Sequoia Rd.

Cinnaminson - 1403 Essex Dr.

Cinnaminson - 7 Hastings Pl.

Cinnaminson - 614 Parry Blvd.

Moorestown - 604 N. Washington Ave.

Delran - 224 Dickens Dr.

13

continued from page 11

seasonal look, fall invites the earthy hues of autumnal florals, which are an easy, appealing way to welcome potential buyers and add a dash of seasonal flare for fall showings.

“For Halloween and Thanksgiving season, you might see things like mums and pumpkins and corn stalks,” said Giannetto. “It looks so lovely when you have people putting out fresh mums and pumpkins. It’s something that’s always pleasing to have at the front door and what people always like to see.”

As the seasons move into winter, Giannetto said that no one should be hesitant to embrace their denominations’ decorations.

“Everyone celebrates all different things: If you celebrate Christmas and want to decorate with Santa, then go ahead and do that; if you celebrate Kwanzaa and you have a kinara, then put that up,” she said. “You’re certainly not going to advise people against doing what’s important to them.”

However, she said hopeful sellers can never go wrong with certain classics.

“If you can keep it tasteful and a little more simple, that certainly helps,” Giannetto said. “Certainly something natural, like a Christmas tree or garland, and white lights, are pleasing to the eye.

They’re fun to look at and still maintain the feeling of the season without going overboard.”

Ultimately, Giannetto summarized her holiday staging philosophy by staying true to the owner’s taste but erring on the side of simplicity.

“Fresh things like flowers and pumpkins and evergreen wreaths are always really nice to have, and maybe a seasonal candle,” she said. “When it comes to staging a house, you’re trying to keep things clutter-free and organized. Keep an eye on making it festive and celebratory and welcoming, but I think ‘less is more’ is generally good advice.” ■

Call For Advertising (856) 779-3800 x6837 132 Kings Highway East Haddonfield, NJ 08033 O: 856.394.5700 • C: 856.625.9035 LisaSellsNewJersey@gmail.com

The

future of mortgages in the

CONTACT US! 5070 Route 42.

Turnersville, NJ 08012 Office: 856-227-1950 www.hansburyteam.com www.weichert.com

Kathy Hansbury

Broker-Associate - Team Leader Phone: 856-885-1106

Jeannie Servais: Broker-Associate

Phone: 856-466-1756

Lauren Koslosky: Sales-Associate

Phone: 856-689-2526

Samuel Lillie: Sales-Associate

Phone: 856-885-0850

digital age

THE TEAM My team brings a unique approach to each transaction and interaction with clients.

They not only offer a deep knowledge of real estate and the local and economic issues shaping market trends. but they're also educated on issues of concern to aged 50+ clients. first time buyers. veterans. first responders. students. and more!

Moving is always a huge adjustment that needs to be handled with love and care. Decisions that are made concerning real estate and financing impact the emotional happiness. comfort. and security of every client. we can handle this!

Phone: 856-725-5643

My team consists of licensed Weichert realtors. Weichert is a full circle company. We have our own umbrella of services from real estate to title to financing and much more. Working closely with attorneys that also service the needs of the 50+ community. we stand ready to help.

Michelle Smith:

We look forward to helping you fulfill all of your real estate needs!

Phone: 856-417-2243

Kathy Hansbury. Team Leader

Chris Sowers: Sales-Associate

Phone: 609-707-3066

Edward Munin: Sales-Associate

Sales-Associate

BY REBECCA L. FORAND

D

igital is the way of the future in many industries, but in the mortgage industryit has been a slow progression away from traditional analog mortgages and toward an all-digital format. The COVID-19 pandemic, however, may be pushing the field in that direction.

A digital mortgage can mean one of two things, according to Anthony Balboni, Sr., Broker of Record for Key Properties Real Estate, and those two options have different pros and cons. It could first mean a transition to all-online paperwork, while maintaining the relationships with local, small mortgage lenders. Secondly it could mean using large online mortgage companies.

For the latter, many local real estate agents prefer their clients use local lenders rather than a company such as Quicken Loans or Rocket Mortgage, which are large conglomerates that could lead to a less personal home buying experience. please see MORTGAGES, page 15

SOUTH JERSEY REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE | FALL 2020

15

MORTGAGES continued from page 14

“I tend to suggest to my clients to consider using a local lender even if the rates aren’t the same or the best,” Balboni said. “When I’m working with a local lender I know if I run into a problem, I can make a phone call.”

With the larger companies, a team of individuals is often working on one case and that team could be based anywhere in the world. You may never speak to the same person twice, which can cause issues when it comes to the subjectivity of mortgage loans.

“Mortgages are guidelines. They are subject to interpretation,” Balboni said.

“If they are looking at you as a blip on a screen, I’d much rather call up my officer I’ve had a relationship with.”

Diana Flanagan, a real estate agent with Berkshire Hathaway Fox and Roach, agreed, calling the mortgage process a “personal” one.

“We find when buyers use an online lender and don’t have a relationship with a loan officer, there are often major problems with them getting a loan,” she said. “I think it’s a comfort level. It’s a very personal thing, residential real estate. People want to know who they’re dealing with.”

Sales Associate, Realtor

dflanaganrealestate@gmail.com 609-304-6009 cell 856-428-2600 office

A member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates, LLC

41 South Haddon Avenue Haddonfield, NJ 08033 NM-00438112

A shift toward online, digital paperwork, however, had already begun and was pushed forward more when the COVID-19 pandemic hit the United States.

Currently, most paperwork is completed via online resources and signed electronically, but the final closing paperwork still needs to be signed in person and with a notary present. In the coming decades, that will most likely change to a fully digital format, but as long as county governments require physical signatures, it will continue.

“All of our paperwork is digital. Maybe 90 to 95 percent can be done digitally, but those final documents will still need a wet signature,” Flanagan said.

Balboni agreed but believes there will be a time when that pen-and-paper signature is no longer necessary.

“I think everything is going to digital to a large degree,” he said. “Ultimately we’re going to get to the point where everything is digitally signed, even with a local lender.” ■

What’s better than having the power of a brand that has been a part of the American home for over 90 years?

Having the best tools, technology and marketing to help you with all of your real estate needs. If you’re looking to buy a home, or sell your property, I am here to help you every step of the way.

EXPECT BETTER® Recel Jovellanos Sales Associate Contact me today!

BETTER HOMES AND GARDENS REAL ESTATE MATURO 249-251 Masonville Mount Laurel, NJ, 08054 Office: 856.316.0777 Mobile: 856.396.9071 buyandcel@gmail.com

© 2020 Better Homes and Gardens® Real Estate LLC. A Realogy Company. All rights reserved. Better Homes and Gardens® Real Estate is a registered trademark owned by Meredith Corporation, licensed to Better Homes and Gardens® Real Estate LLC and used with permission. Better Homes and Gardens® Real Estate LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each franchise is independently owned and operated.

16

SOUTH JERSEY REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE | FALL 2020

Smart homes a smart choice

Top tech features for the home increasing in popularity

BY RACHEL SIMPSON Whether you’re building a new home, modernizing your current home or considering upgrades before putting your place on the market, adding “smart” features is becoming increasingly popular.

With so many people spending more time than ever at home during the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s natural to please see SMART, page 18

320 WEST END AVENUE, HADDONFIELD

Welcome Home

NM-00439379

Classy & Convenient Haddonfield Living Presented by Lindsey Watson McCarthy of Weichert Realtors 132 Kings Highway East, Haddonfield, NJ 08033 Office: 856-394-5700

856.982.6467

SOUTH JERSEY REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE | FALL 2020

Thank You

17

to our

Expert Contributers

Protect the home you love.

Lisa Arcano

Anthony Balboni Sr.

Cynthia Beechler If you need home coverage, ď ‰ can help.

I live and work right here in our community. I know what the homes are like in the area. So I can offer advice you can trust to help you get

If you’re ready to talk home insurance or need some advice about protecting all that’s important to you, call me today.

Jacquelyn Dorisio

Diana Flanagan

Missy Giannetto

McDyer Insurance Agency, LLC 856-216-0088 1301 Route 70 East Cherry Hill michaelmcdyer@allstate.com

Dave Gilbert

Philip “Pip�

Haxby-Thompson

Nancy Kowalik

856-424-6888 1808 Springdale Rd.

Cherry Hill michaelmcdyer@allstate.com

Find Your Dream Home!

609-654-1426 649 Stokes Rd.

Medford michaelmcdyer@allstate.com Personalized service. Trusted advice.

Keith Fisher Jr.

Office: 856-582-1200 • Cell: 609-694-6979 keithfisher.kw.com Download my all new KW app here:

app.kw.com/KW2Q7O43F

Allstate home products not available in FL, and may also not be available in certain areas of other states. Policies may be written by a

subject to terms, conditions and availability.

 �� �

NM-00438582 �  ­€

12782762

Keller Williams Realty Washington Township 381 Egg Harbor Road, Suite 2 Sewell, NJ 08080 NM-00438971

Joshua Wilton

18

SOUTH JERSEY REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE | FALL 2020

SMART

continued from page 16

want to focus on home improvements that add convenience, entertainment, safety and savings, or, as licensed Realtor Jacquelyn Dorisio puts it, “safety, security and savings.”

Dorisio, a Realtor with Realty Mark Advantage in Marlton, has seen buyers gravitate toward homes with smart upgrades. “The foundation and bones of the home are crucial, but smart features are becoming more common benefits. If a home has them, it is an added bonus.”

According to Dorisio, the most common smart features are thermostats, lighting, timers and sprinklers, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Smart services can include dedicated home theaters, whole home audio, lighting control, motorized shading, multi-room/multi-zone audio and video systems, camera security systems, telephone systems and more, making smart technology customizable for each homeowner’s needs.

“We specify, design, install and service anything in the home that has to do with entertainment, internet and anything

smart in the house,” said Dave Gilbert, custom integrator and general manager of Bravas Philadelphia (formerly HI-FI Sales). “With just one touch, you can easily operate all of your home’s smart technology from a single device and eliminate the need to walk from room to room to adjust drapes, lights, temperature and media.”

Often the technology can be linked so that it can be controlled through a single app.

“It is possible to set and control your thermostat to certain temperatures

Autumn leaves are changing.

Call us if you are ready for a change!

throughout the day, turn porch lights on just before coming home, open the garage when you are a couple minutes away, turn off the lawn irrigation system, turn lights on inside so you can see when entering your home, turn on the TV and open or close your shades for privacy,” said Gilbert, who advises these features not only provide privacy, safety and convenience, but can help save money in electric and water bills.

Outdoor living has truly been enhanced in recent months as well.

“Families are home more, seeing more and realizing it’s time to upgrade” said Gilbert. “We are no longer confined to four walls of the home for entertainment.”

With options such as outdoor TVs, music systems built for outdoor use and much more, families are enjoying their outdoor space more than ever. Also in demand in recent months is increased Wi-Fi, Gilbert explained. “Children are home, parents are working from home and everybody’s streaming. There is a need to get Wi-Fi in more places and upgrade equipment to accommodate usage, capability and capacity.”

According to Gilbert, the industry is also getting closer to integrating smart homes with healthy homes. Not only does smart technology simplify and enhance lives – it can actually make them healthier, too.

Kathleen McNamara and Michelle Cassin

Sales Associates, (609) 238-5100 kmcnamara@weichert.com 132 Kings Highway East | Haddonfield, NJ 08033 | O: (856) 394-5700

“We are monitoring air and water quality now which will lead to people living healthier and happier lives inside their homes,” Gilbert said.

The best part? These upgrades are expandable so the homeowner can grow with them and they don’t have to be a six-figure project – which is also healthy for the wallet. ■

SOUTH JERSEY REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE | FALL 2020

The #1 Agent of the Cherry Hill Home Marketing Center 2018, 2017, 2016, 201412 NJAR Circle of Excellence PLATINUM Award 2018 2017, 2016, 2015,2012 GOLD Award 2019, 2014, 2013 Direct 8567954709 Office 8564288000 ext 142 akoonsbhhs@gmail.com www.annekoonsrealestate.com

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

Pending

Sold Marlton/ Little Mill This lovely 5 bedroom 5.5 bath home hom with open first-floor interior floor plan features custom finished hardwood floors, stone gas fireplace in the great room, high end moldings throughout entire home, a newly renovated kitchen with granite counter tops, stainless-steel appliances with custom built panels and large center island. The second floor boasts 4 large bedrooms all with newer full baths with granite or marble countertops. The large master suite has two walk-in closets, double sink granite vanity in master bath with dressing area, private toilet room, jacuzzi tub & shower, heated floors with skylight above.

Fantastic full finished walk out lower level has custom built entertainment center with gas fireplace, wet bar with marble countertop, wine chiller, full bath, gym room, possible additional bedroom. This home has a newer roof, newer three zone heat and air, newer hardwood floors, carpeting and updated light fixtures through out. Realistically priced at $899,900

Pending

19

Cherry Hill Beautiful home waiting for you in Surrey Place East across from a 40 acre preserve yet close to all major highways. This home has been totally remodeled with newer roof, hardwood floors, newer a/c, newer bathrooms, newer kitchen with stainless steel appliances, granite counter tops, ceramic decorative backsplash and porcelain tile floor. Large great room with wood burning fireplace, wetbar and sliding glass doors to huge backyard with patio and shed. Mstr Bedroom with 2 large walkin closets, newer Mstr Bath with jacuzzi tub and stall shower and double vanities. Finished basement with storage area, newer carpets thru out and freshly painted thru out. Realistically priced at $449,900

Voorhees/Lost Tree Beautiful custom home with professional landscape grounds, circular paver drive way, a classic conservatory great for entertaining with slate floor, custom glass and wood ceiling with wet bar area, Two story foyer with marble floors and two staircases, this 5 bedroom home with first floor study, 4.5 baths, 3 car garage with private fenced backyard is a one of a kind home. Gorgeous newer kitchen with stainless steel appliances, separate wine refrigerator, full size refrigerator and separate full size freezer, tumbled marble floors, granite counter tops, center island, glass tile backsplash, kitchen is open to the family room and conservatory great for entertaining. Family room is two story with custom fireplace, custom built wall unit and open to kitchen, the Living room has hand carved Italian mantle surrounding the fireplace with chair rail moldings and wainscoting and the Dining room has inlaid Italian marble floor and tray ceiling. The finished basement has a 3,000 bottle wine cellar, a full gym, kitchenette, 5th bedroom and full bath, game area, plus an unfinished portion for storage and stairs leading up to garage. Laundry room is on second level, newer trex deck, newer a/c, back staircase off the kitchen area. Total privacy in the backyard surrounded by woods. Realistically priced at $749,999 .

Listed & Sold by Anne

Cherry Hill/Short Hills This magnificent Coventry Model Mode home has 4 bedrooms, 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 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 $684,000.

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, builtin pool with slide, hottub and waterfalls, and a covered outdoor kitchen & bar which is nestled on a resort like professionally landscaped two acre property. Newer Hardwood 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 $1,274,900.

Cherry Hill/ Villagio Stunning 3 Bedroom, 3 bath, 1st floor Master Bedroom Suite, large eat in Kitchen with a 2car garage located in the quiet 55+ community of Villagio. Spec tacular 2story foyer has hardwood floors, large arch window, The master bedroom suite is on the first fl w/2 walk in closets, the bath has a jacuzzi tub, double vanities, water closet and an oversized shower. There is an office, formal living rm, dining rm, family rm and an eat in kitchen with granite counter tops, breakfast bar, double ovens and tons of windows. The 2nd fl. has a sitting area, the 3rd bedroom, bonus rm and a full bath. This home has many upgrades and has been meticulously maintained. Realistically priced at $524,900.

Moorestown/Tom Brown Road 5+ acres private property to build your dream home in the prestigious town of Moorestown, plenty of room for a pool, can build over a 6,000 Square foot home, level piece of ground and a great investment. Realistically priced at….$999,900

Wilderness Run/Cherry Hill Beautiful custom contemporary home on 3/4 of professional landscape grounds with 3/4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 3 car garage, large deck great for entertaining, fire pit and total privacy. Beautiful custom open kitchen with upgraded appliances which adjoins a two story great room. First floor office with wine cellar, large dining room great for family dinners. There is also a second TV room on the first floor, mud room with dog shower and loads of windows to bring in all the natural light. The huge master bedroom has a very large bathroom with 2 vanities, shower and tub and unbelievable walkin closet. The laundry room is on the 2nd floor plus 3 more bedrooms and another full bath.

Cherry Hill This unique contemporary home has 4 bedrooms and 4.5 bath. The foyer features Marble floors & custom carved front double doors. The oversized living room has a step down fireplace area with marble hearth, custom carpet and sliders leading to the professionally landscaped backyard. The large eat in kitchen has granite countertops, custom glass back splash, ceramic floors, center island, and the breakfast areas has cathedral windows. The master bedroom suite offers 3 large walkin closets, custom marble bath. The finished base ment has 10ft ceilings and 2 entertainment rooms. The back yard offers a Gunite salt water pool with waterfall, and professionally landscaped. Newer roof, heaters and air condition.

Realistically priced at $514,900

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

Live in

Comfort

Get a free energy assessment today.

Home Performance with ENERGY STAR®. Making homes

(800) 836-3987 Orbitenergy.us NJ Bus.Reg. #2182851 – Orbit Energy & Power, LLC. NJ HIC Lic. #13VH09825800 – Sean S. Angelini. NJ Electrical Lic. #34EI01837900 – Ian J. Reynolds.

NJ Plumbing Lic. #12921 – Joseph S. Cvikich. NJ HVAC Lic. #19HC00083500 - David J. Wells, Sr. Home Performance with ENERGY STAR is brought to you by the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities. Information can be found at NJCleanEnergy.com.