HomeBuyer Guide for Chatham, Madison and more

PRESENTED BY POLLOCK PROPERTIES GROUP

BUYER GUIDE

CARE. SERVE. GIVE.

CARE. SERVE. GIVE.

2

We are honored and grateful that you have entrusted Pollock Properties Group to find your new home. Every member of our team has a mission to CARE about you and your family, SERVE you to the highest level of professionalism, and GIVE back to this community we love, as well as to the charity of your choice.

We have put this magazine together for your convenience, and hope the information enclosed will simplify the process for you and your family. In the pages that follow you will find a step-bystep outline of the buying process. But rest assured, we will be in constant contact with you every step of the way. We are here to answer all of your questions and we promise to provide you with exceptional service, customized to your unique wants and needs.

When you look back in the coming years, we want you to think, “Pollock Properties Group always had my back and was looking out for MY best interests.”

Thank you again for this opportunity to serve you.

We’re here for you!

VANESSA & THE TEAM

CARE. SERVE. GIVE.

TABLE OF CONTENTS Closing for a Cause

About the Team

Our Towns

Approximate Closing Costs

Home Inspection

Mortgage Process

Buyer’s Checklist

Buyer Process

Why work with a Team?

4 5 9 10 11 12 13 20 21

WHY WORK WITH OUR GROUP?

* Learn more about each of us at: pollockpropertiesgroup.com Your home purchase is all about YOU. And

showing assistant is here to make sure that you

in order to give you the greatest experience

get into homes when YOU want to. Our Closing

possible, you need a team of specialists who

coordinator is here to make sure that everything

can help you achieve YOUR goals. Pollock

from contract-to-close is handled quickly,

Properties Group will take care of you every

efficiently and with great communication. This

step of the way - your agent will get to know

is far too much for ONE agent to do with the

your specific needs and be able to get you

level of excellence that you deserve, which is

into the homes that are right for you, as well

why it is so smart that you have hired our TEAM.

as negotiate your contract accordingly. Our

3

BUYER PROCESS

Your top 3 must haves for your new home: 1.

2.

3.

GET PREAPPROVED

VIEW HOMES

DISCUSS

• Initial interview - we assess your needs • Get loan pre-qualification • Start with listing alert emails

• Keep notes on impressions • Remember your top 3 wants • Get paperwork to lender so your loan application is ready to go when you find YOUR home

Call Matthew to discuss your financing strategy!

Matthew Keane SVP of Mortgage Lending matt.keane@rate.com

HOW TO WIN AT MULTIPLE BIDS

www.rate.com/MatthewKeane

BY SHERI GREENMAN

Office: 973-295-6478 Cell: 973-464-7571 Fax: 773-328-1582 14 Main Street Suite 201, Madison, NJ 07940 NMLS ID: 12966

CARE. SERVE. GIVE.

4

Realtor®/ Buyer Agent

Sheri@SheriGreenman.com We all know that feeling of buying a home.

Elation, excitement, anticipation! And then you get into this market where it seems that the beautiful home you just looked at online is either gone in days, or if you are lucky enough to see it and want to put in an offer, you get the big news = there are multiple offers!!

What?? Where are the days of negotiating a price between buyer and seller, the backand-forth, the resolution? Unfortunately, in this active real estate market, those days are gone! Instead, what we are seeing more times than not, is that as soon as a home hits the market, the buyers come out in droves, and so do the offers!

Intimidating? Yes. Impossible? No. As a Buyer Specialist, I have had the honor(!) of being in numerous multiple bid situations over my many years in real estate. Have I gotten the house for my clients? Yes! All the time? No! But I do know that it is not an impossibility to get a house, and if you follow my steps and suggestions below, your chances will improve: 1. Make sure your preapproval is up-to-date.

No offer will be considered without one.

2. In this market, where prices are going considerably higher than the asking price, consider looking at properties below your price range, by as much as $75-100k lower, in order to give you the “wiggle” room to raise your offer, should you be competing with other buyers.

3. In this competitive market, it is harder for you to get a home if you have a sales con-

MAKE AN OFFER

• • • • • • • • •

Client contact form complete Initial offer amount Good faith deposit Down payment amount Closing date Other conditions Copy of pre-approval Buyers’ letter to the seller Choose attorney (See VP Choices) • Signed Lead-Paint Disclosure • Signed “Sellers” Disclosure

tingency on another property. If you need to sell another home/condo/coop/etc in order to buy your next property, try to at least be “Under Contract” on that home before putting in an offer on your next property. Remember, if your first deal falls through, then your purchase here will also fall through.

This does not make you a strong contender when competing against other buyers with no sales contingency. If you insist on still trying for a home, then be ready to increase your bid – A LOT!! Also be ready to provide documentation about the other sale, so that the Sellers feel confident that it will go through (get your contract, your buyer’s pre-approval, a letter from your Board or agent and any other documents ready to share.)

4. The more money you can put down, the better! Sellers love cash in a deal! If you bring a high offer the sellers don’t need to worry about whether or not the house will appraise. An all-cash offer is the ultimate

ATTORNEY REVIEW

UNDER CONTRACT

• Showings can continue • Starts within 3 days of fully executed contract but can take as long as necessary until all parties satisfied • During AR, either Seller or Buyer can cancel without penalty (seller may entertain other offers) • Schedule home inspection • Secure lender and start financing process

• Showings stop • Additional offers accepted for backup only • Apply for mortgage

best, and will put you ahead of the pack!

While that’s not everyone’s reality, do try to have at least 20% to put down, if you are competing with other buyers. (Although I have seen buyers with only 10% down win before!)

5. Tell the Sellers that you will have your home inspection within 5 days of completing Attorney Review on the house, and state in the contract that you will only request repairs or credits for major mechanical, environmental, and structural issues.. This still covers you on all the big stuff, but tells the sellers that you won’t give them a laundry list of home inspection items to fix. (Also, to sweeten the deal, you could put a cap amount on what you will ask the sellers to fix. ie: you will “be responsible for anything needing repair up to $5,000.” etc) 6. OK, this is the big one. Many buyers are waiving the appraisal contingency in their mortgage. This means that if the house

does not appraise for the amount you have offered the Seller, then it will be your responsibility to come up with the needed cash to “bridge the gap”. Huh? Let’s look at this example: List price: $500,000 Your accepted Offer: $550,000 Appraisal comes in for: $525,000.

By waiving the appraisal, you are telling the sellers that you will come up with the $25,000 needed to bridge the difference between what the bank has said the value is (and will issue a loan based off of) and your offer price. You will still pay $550,000. but need more cash in order to do so.

Because buyers have been bidding so much higher than the asking price, a few houses haven’t been appraising. This has become a strong negotiating tool, but should only be used if you are comfortable with it and you actually have more cash to put into the deal!! Most importantly, you need to speak to your real estate attorney about this before you offer it in your contract.

7. Try to have a flexible closing date–one that lines up with what the seller wants. The thing here is–don’t panic! All buyers in our market are experiencing the same thing (and most of them don’t have these tips!).

Hang in there, don’t get discouraged, and make sure you have a strong agent in your corner (like me and my team!) that knows the market and understands the process of multiple bids.

Good luck!!!

Love, Sheri Greenman Buyer Specialist for the VP Team

BUYER PROCESS

NEGOTIATE INSPECTION ISSUES

HOME INSPECTION

• Between 1-10 days after AR concludes, unless otherwise stipulated in contract • VP Team representative attends with you Inspections: • Main/General - incl. termite, radon, structural, mechanical, etc. (3-4 hrs) • Supplemental based on inspector’s request - may incl. roof, termite repair, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, etc.

• Oil tank sweep

*

• Review and negotiate with attorney • Obtain contractor estimates for repairs Closing Coordinator to handle • Submit repair or credit requests to sellers * Closing Coordinator and attorney manages this process with you

(CONT’D)

2ND DEPOSIT DUE

• Due within 10 days after AR concludes, unless otherwise stipulated in contract - Closing Coordinator will help us stay on time

MORTGAGE APPLICATION

• Confirm with Closing Coordinator

APPRAISAL

• Set up appointment through lender • Your Agent or Closing Coordinator will handle.

MORTGAGE COMMITMENT HOME INSPECTION

CARE. SERVE. GIVE.

6

Congratulations! You are under contract and it is time for your home inspection! A few things you should know about a home inspection: you should schedule between three and four hours with your inspector. Treat this time like an “educational day” to get to know the inner workings of the home you are buying. Try to come well caffeinated, and with a full belly. It’s best to be without kids, but do bring a tape measure and an open mind – ready to absorb a lot of information.

Components: • Obtain homeowners insurance • Inspection contingencies satisfied • Certificate of Occupancy or Continued Use (varies by town) • Finalize all lender requirements • Buyers’ letter to the seller

CARE. SERVE. GIVE.

7

PRECLOSING

CLOSING TIME

• REMEMBER: Set up utilities (gas & electric, water, garbage, TV, phone, internet) for your closing date • Submit change of address to USPS and current services • Confirm move with your moving company • Review closing costs with your attorney • Lender: Loan underwritten clear to close!

• Closing walk-through takes place the day of closing with your agent • Home warranty optional • Buyers must attend in person or provide Power of Attorney to your attorney • Receive keys, any documents/ manuals, etc.

• After closing: Legal Recording by attorney • Bring check to closing for down payment and closing costs confirm amount with attorney • “Closing for a Cause” donation is made on your behalf

WELCOME HOME

HOME OWNERSHIP

• CELEBRATE and move in!

• Ask your VP Team for recommendations for anything you need!

• Stay in touch!

BUYER’S CHECKLIST Get pre-approved

Conduct home inspection

Take an area tour

Get repair estimate(s) through Closing Coordinator

Search for and find your dream home

Finalize inspection negotiations with attorney

Make an offer through your agent

Purchase Homeowners Insurance

Hire an attorney

Finalize loan

Offer accepted/enter attorney review

Get mortgage commitment to closing coordinator

Complete attorney review

Set up utilities - VP Team will provide list for easy connect

Submit first escrow check

Schedule closing walk through with your agent

Schedule inspection - Completed within 7-10 days after Attorney Review File

Closing

Mortgage application

CARE. SERVE. GIVE.

8

MORTGAGE PROCESS

Get pre-approved Items needed:

1. Two years most recent Federal Tax Returns 2. Two years most recent W2 & 1099 income forms 3. Two most recent pay stubs 4. Birthdate(s) for credit check 5. Estimated balances of liquid savings and retirement accounts

Apply for mortgage

Appraisal on your home

Your loan goes through underwriting

You are cleared to close!

Call Matthew to discuss your financing strategy!

Matthew Keane SVP of Mortgage Lending matt.keane@rate.com www.rate.com/MatthewKeane Office: 973-295-6478 Cell: 973-464-7571 Fax: 773-328-1582 14 Main Street Suite 201, Madison, NJ 07940 NMLS ID: 12966

9

HOME INSPECTION

CARE. SERVE. GIVE.

10

The inspector will look for issues within the home that are defective, not up to code, or of a hazardous nature. He will also highlight any potential issues, in addition to pointing out appliances that may be near the end of their lifespan. The inspectors are “generalists” who know “a little about a lot of things.” Once you ascertain what inspection items need

further investigation, your agent will help obtain estimates for repairs from “specialist” contractors.

Remember, stick by your inspector’s side the whole time, and take lots of notes. Once the inspection concludes, you and your agent will have a “huddle up” with the inspector to determine what

the most significant concerns are. Once you receive your written inspection report, it should be forwarded to your attorney and the attorney will issue a letter with your request for further investigation and/or repairs. Please do not hesitate to ask your agent any questions along the way!

APPROXIMATE CLOSING COSTS

• $1,800-$2,000 Attorney Fees • 0-1% Mortgage Lender Fees (Plus Application & Underwriting Fee)

• Tax Escrow = 1 Quarterly Payment • $1,500-$3,000 Home Owners Insurance • $2,500 Title Fees

(Title agency recommended: Acres Land & Title)

• $450-$650 Appraisal • $500 Home Inspection • $250 Tank Sweep • $750 Survey • $150 Recording Fees • $50 Credit Report • $75 Flood Fee • 1% Mansion Tax (if purchase price over $1m) Please note that this closing cost list is an approximation and your final closing costs are determined by your lender and attorney - they vary buyer to buyer, based on your loan fees, tax amounts, etc.

This is purely a guide and are not exact amounts.

RECOMMENDED VENDORS

LAWYERS

Budin, Greenman & Greenman Arnold Budin 908-688-6444 Susan Taylor 908-277-2727 Lisa Breen 973-626-1545

Ian Horwitz Manta Property Service Group 973-255-6161

PAINTERS

Olger Fallas Painting 973-762-6700

TITLE COMPANY

Monk’s Home Improvements 973-975-0044

MORTGAGE LENDERS Guaranteed Rate Matthew Keane 973-295-6478 973-464-7571

Eagle Home Mortgage Justin Messing 973-865-3252 M/R Capital Group Julie Schwartz 973-574-1144 Finance of America Sarah Maloney 201-843-6400 ext. 2236 973-715-6446

INSPECTORS

Brian Arrington Dean Arrington Associates 908-236-9697 Michael Alameida Pillar To Post 201-998-9823 Doug Sward Pillar To Post 973-889-5306

John’s Painting 908-392-5846 JohnsPaint@hotmail.com

Siegel Architects 973-635-2465 ASA Design 973-377-1313

Klesse Architects 973-379-6602 201-618-5986

TANK SWEEP/REMOVAL Sunrise Environmental Service 973-287-7887

ASBESTOS REMOVAL D&S Restoration Inc. 973-345-8020

Chris Delsandro 973-701-0399

CARPET

The Carpet Girl 973-218-1155

APPLIANCE REPAIR

Dan Northeast Appliance Service 973-396-7315

HVAC

Stashluk Plumbing, Heating, AC & Generators 908-277-6200 Argent 908-286-1920 Ron Jon Heating & Cooling Inc. 973-378-0757

LOCKSMITH

INSULATION

Harder Locksmith 973-762-4650

North Pole Insulation Corp.

908-534-2108

LANDSCAPER

MOLD REMEDIATION

Hickory Tree Landscaping 973-822-8936

Puro Clean 877-775-7876

Nathan Albon Albon Plumbing 973-220-0929

Cesar & Luna Landscaping 908-360-5017

Manta Property Service Group 973-255-6161

ELECTRICIANS

Florenza Landscaping & Lawn Care 973-727-1969

PLUMBERS Mike Palazzo 973-714-5241

Lepore’s 973-615-6294 Taylo Plumbing 973-377-0160

Jimmy Fleming 908-577-6675

CHIMNEY

Craig Bradley 201-532-2992

Greg Nelms Nelms Inspection 908-770-7228

Future Electric 908-296-8962

Ryan & Son Chimney 973-398-3978

Deb Carney Carney Electric 908-277-6961 908-788-4188

ROOFER

FLOOR REFINISHERS Bryant Floor Services 973-762-1220

Terra Home Inspections 908-379-9311

Graham Floor Services 973-422-1622

HANDYMAN

Oakwood Floors, Inc. 732-768-2670

Jean-Eudes 973-519-1199

ARCHITECTS

Chris Martin GreyWolf Environmental 862-222-0745

Ebert Home Inspections 973-239-6880

Tony Vivona 973-879-9537

12

Edgars Handyman & Painting 908-247-2722

Ed Papalia, Jr 973-443-4433 Acres Land Title Agency Peter Uzzilino 973-376-4643

CARE. SERVE. GIVE.

Travis Mara 973-461-3696

The Flooring Gallery LLC 973-635-1026

R&G Roofers 973-324-9461

SLATE

Bently Brothers Roofing 908-273-3398 Peter Traub 908-464-9655

GUTTERS

Ned Stevens 800-542-0267 Keltom Gutter Services 877-535-8660

TERMITE/PEST Jim Kriney Crown Pest 908-242-3111

Roy Russen Atlas Termite and Pest Control 908-647-9660 Western Pest Services 844-276-1366 973-358-0986

WINDOW CLEANERS Cleaning America 800-528-2321 Chris Delsandro 973-701-0399

MOVERS

Main Street Movers 973-732-3700 Chatham Moving & Storage 973-635-7100 Tiger Moving & Storage 973-227-5250

OUR TOWNS

24

MADISON 24

MILLBURN/ SHORT HILLS 9A

CHATHAM SUMMIT

9A

NEW PROVIDENCE

78 22

BERKELEY HEIGHTS

78

22

22

78

WESTFIELD

CARE. SERVE. GIVE.

13

BERKELEY HEIGHTS

In the early 1900’s, Berkeley Heights was in a head-to-head

to them by their departures, “the 6:28, the 7:09, the 8:26”. In the

competition with the Jersey shore. Known as Glenside Park, the

evenings, it’s take-out time, or meet a neighbor for a drink. Our

summer vacation resort closed when the boardwalks won out.

agents recommend The Chimney Rock Inn and Marcello’s Italian

C’est la vie! Even so, on hot summer days Watchung Reservation

Restaurant. Travel time to New York’s Penn Station via the Morris-

still draws a considerable crowd. Visitors come to hike, canoe, fish,

Essex line or Gladstone Branch to Hoboken is 65 minutes. Buses

and cool off in the fresh water creeks. And all year long, people

to New York City’s Port Authority are also available from the town

come to see the eerie structure of The Deserted Village.

center.

Most historians credit The American Telegraph Company for

In addition to the easy commute to NYC, or Lucent Technologies,

putting Berkeley Heights on the map. As the US was drawn

people are drawn to Berkeley Heights by the well regarded public-

deeper into World War II, the company opened its first research

school system. There is one school for Pre-K, Kindergarten and

facility outside of D.C. With the invention of the transistor, the rural

First Grade, 3 elementary schools, one middle school and one high

community blossomed into the desirable, bustling town it is today.

school, the award winning, Governor Livingston High School.

Now Lucent Technologies, the company continues to anchor the town, employing as many as 10,000.

Registration for Kindergarten begins in December. Registration is done on-line at the Berkeley Heights Public School home page.

A recent article in the New York Times describes Berkeley Heights

More detailed information is available at the school’s website.

residents as “multi-generational”. They prefer to stay in the area; up-sizing and down-sizing as necessary. They describe their town

Regardless of your reason for choosing Berkeley Heights, you will

as the “best of both Worlds” – close to New York City, but small

find good value, well-kept properties, a vibrant downtown and a

enough to host a Halloween Parade, a barber shop and a hardware

strong public-school system. You will add hours to your day by

store.

shortening your commute – an hour to NYC, an hour to Broadway, an hour to the Macy’s Parade.

Like most NJ commuter towns, the train station is the social center. The schedules control the town’s rhythm. Riders refer

14

THE CHATHAMS

Ironically, the Chathams are named for a popular British politician

Shop, Chatham Bagel or Marie’s for take-out, Serenade’s for date

who never set foot in America: the very eloquent, pro-colonist,

night or a drink, Twin Elephant Brewery for craft beer, DRIP for

advocate of individual rights, the Bernie Sanders of his time, Sir

coffee, and shopping at The Purple Aardvark or Quartet. They love

William Pitt, Earl of Chatham. Apparently, the good Sir William Pitt

the Powerflow Yoga. For serious shopping the luxurious Short Hills

was such an outspoken critic of the English government and their

Mall is a short drive away.

treatment of the colonists, that he became, by some accounts, an “idol” during and after the Revolution. The city of Pittsburgh is also

The main draw of the town is the train station. In 50 convenient

named for him.

minutes residents arrive at New York’s Penn Station, or Hoboken with transfers to the Path. Trains on this Morris-Essex line run daily

For many years, Chatham was the center of the rose growing

from 5:00 am to 11:00pm.

industry. When the building ban was lifted after World War II, many of the farms were sold. This accounts for the larger plots and

In addition to the simple commute, many are drawn to the town

post war architecture. In 1959, an attempt was made to build an

by the highly regarded School System of the Chathams. There are

airport in what is called the Great Swamp. But Chatham residents

six schools in total: three Kindergarten through 3rd grade; one for

and residents in neighboring towns prevented the airport and

4th and 5th; one for middle and one for high school. New Jersey

preserved the land.

Monthly Magazine rated the Chatham schools as the state’s top as recently as 2014. The high school was rated #1 in 2014 and 2016.

Today the trails and fields surrounding the Great Swamp are enjoyed by nature enthusiasts of all kinds. Residents also avail

Registration for Kindergarten begins in January; appointments

themselves of well-planned civic enterprises. The Library of the

can be made by contacting the school. As with most New Jersey

Chathams offers an extensive program for children and adults; the

schools, children enrolled in Kindergarten must be 5 by October

Chatham Community Garden invites local gardeners to plant their

first.

own produce. For theatre lovers there’s the Chatham Community CARE. SERVE. GIVE.

15

Players, for athletes of all ages there are fields galore located

Regardless of your reason for choosing a home in The Chathams,

minutes from downtown – and don’t miss Noe Pond Club.

you will find property values that have historically held their value, a vibrant downtown, and a commuter’s dream: 50 minutes to New

Our agents recommend Pascarella Brother’s, Chatham Sandwich

York City, 50 minutes to Broadway.

NEW PROVIDENCE

According to a New York Times article, in the 1700’s New

Builders in the late 1900’s developed a “no look-alike” plan for the

Providence went by the name Turkey Town until one Sunday, the

81 Murray Hill farm homes. Older homes are ‘60’s style ranch and

choir loft collapsed at the Presbyterian Church. Miraculously, no

split-levels. There are also condos and townhouses available which

one was hurt. The pastor determined the event was “providential,”

makes up-sizing and down-sizing a possibility. The New York

and suggested renaming the town “New Providence”, fortunately,

Times called New Providence “The Town that Grows With You.”

the name stuck.

New Providence residents also enjoy an outstanding public school New Providence enjoys all of the benefits of nearby Summit and

system. There are two elementary schools, one middle school

Chatham. Residents enjoy hiking, canoeing, fishing, wading in

which shares its campus with the New Providence High School.

streams, walking their dogs, riding their bikes at the 2,065-acre

New Providence is also home to the Summit Speech School for

Watchung Reservation. In summer they swim at the Olympic size

the hearing-impaired.

community pool, or head to the shore, just an hour away.

They can take in a show at the Paper Mill Playhouse in Millburn,

Kindergarten registration begins early in the year. It is best to

visit the Center for Visual Arts in Summit, or hop a train and be in

contact the school for more information. Like most NJ schools,

New York City in about an hour.

children must be 5 years old by October 1 to be enrolled in Kindergarten.

The downtown of New Providence offers shopping, casual dining

CARE. SERVE. GIVE.

16

and – the train! In about an hour the Gladstone Branch of the

Regardless of your reason for choosing New Providence, you will

Morris-Essex line brings commuters to New York Penn Station or

find good value, well-kept properties, a vibrant downtown – and

Hoboken. By car, the residents can shop the luxurious brands of

a commuter’s dream. One hour to New York City – one hour to

the Short Hills Mall, Our agents recommend the Bagel Café, The

Broadway!

Prestige Diner, Coppola and the Providence Bar and Kitchen.

Many of the homes of New Providence are intentionally unique.

MADISON

Until 1835, Madison was referred to as Bottle Hill, the name of a

At the center of Madison is the Train station. Trains run daily to

popular tavern on Main Street. Reportedly, teetotalers changed the

New York’s Penn Station on the Morristown line. The average ride

name to Madison after our president who graduated from nearby

is about 60 minutes. Many commuters walk or bike to the station,

Princeton. The rest, as they say, is history - and Madison loves

and parking is available at three public lots.

its history! The Madison Historical Society is very active. You can visit their webpage for proof, or stop by the Early Trade and Crafts

Madison is also home to two Universities – Drew and Farleigh

Museum located inside the Madison Public Library, or just take a

Dickinson. The public- school system of Madison is well regarded.

walk down Main Street.

It consists of three schools for children K through 6th grade; one junior high for 7th and 8th graders, and one high school.

The people of Madison also know how to have a good time. For the last 30 years, in October they celebrate Bottle Hill Day. The

Registration for Kindergarten must be done by appointment after

event brings over 10,000 people to enjoy offerings of 200 vendor

verifying residency. Like most New Jersey schools, children must

booths, a seemingly endless variety of food, a Beer Garden, live

be age 5 by October 1st. It is recommended that you visit the

entertainment, and amusement rides for the children. And –

School’s website for more information

admission is free.

When our agent finds a house for you in Madison, they are not When the town is quieter, there’s still plenty to do. Downtown

exaggerating about the speed in which it will sell. No matter what

Madison includes popular dining spots: Try Shanghai Jazz, The

your reason for moving to Madison, you will find properties that

Nautilus Diner, 54 Main Bar and Grill, or Rocco’s Tuscany Bar

hold their value, a vibrant town and a commuter’s dream – 60

and Grill. There’s coffee: The DRIP, Starbuck’s and Hava G’Day.

minutes to New York City – 60 minutes to Broadway !

Need a cake? Try Crowley’s Bakery. Something unique? Check out Stitches, Short Stories bookstore, or try the museum shop in nearby Morristown.

17

MILLBURN/ SHORT HILLS

Millburn Township’s area covers the beautiful hamlet of Short Hills, South Mountain

FAVORITE RESTAURANTS

and the Millburn downtown centre, as well as the historic Short Hills Park and Wy-

La Pergola

oming districts. The township is surrounded by several picturesque municipalities

Millburn Delicatessen

including Madison, Chatham, Summit, Springfield, Maplewood - South Orange, West

Basilico

Orange, Florham Park and Livingston. Millburn is approximately 21 miles from New

La Strada

York City and is serviced by the NJ Transit on the Morris and Essex Line.

MoonShine Modern Supper Club Cara Mia

Much of the town’s current character reflects its original development in the later

Sakura

1870’s. Wishing to create an idyllic community. The majority landowner, Stuart Harts-

Liv Breads

horn, vetted each property purchase and building plans to ensure suitability of in-

The Hills Tavern

coming new residents.

Boxcar Bar & Grill

The main downtown area is centered largely on Millburn Ave which runs from west

GROCERY STORES

to east through Millburn’s town centre. Many restaurants, coffee shops, retail and

Whole Foods

professional businesses are located either on this road or nearby. In Millburn you will

Trader Joe’s

find diverse cuisine options, such as Thai, Chinese, Japanese, Mexican, Italian and

Shop Rite

American. For entertainment, there is a Bow Tie Cinema complex downtown while the township is also home to the Paper Mill Playhouse, a regional theatre with a pro-

FAVORITE SHOPS

duction schedule more like one seen on Broadway than in Essex County.

Essex Green Shopping Center Bungalow Boutique

At the heart of Millburn’s town center is Taylor Park, with its own lake and historic

SEED387

stone bridges. And just a stone’s throw away is the massive South Mountain Reser-

Variazioni

vation, a protected nature area with hiking trails, dog-park and a historic landmark.

Curate

Millburn’s town center, as well as the Short Hills Mall, caters for the locals with chic

FAVORITE SPOTS

boutique clothing and shoe shops, and high end restaurants. Millburn has a small

South Orange Symphony Orchestra

town feel with a sophisticated edge.

Codey Arena The Mall at Short Hills

The highly ranked schools draw families to this classic town. Seven schools make

Paper Mill Playhouse

up the district with over 4800 students from Pre-K to High School. The district is

Greenwood Gardens

comprised of five elementary schools, a middle school and high school. New Jersey

Fairy Hiking Trail in Reservation

Monthly Magazine again ranked Millburn High School at the top of the charts coming CARE. SERVE. GIVE.

18

in at number three in the state for 2018. Kindergarten registration takes place in Janu-

COMMUTING (2 stations)

ary using an online registration tool for children who will be 5 by October 1st.

www.njtransit.com (Morristown Line)

SUMMIT

According to historians, Summit began as a hoax. In 1781,

In addition to the short commute to New York City, the Summit

George Washington created a fake camp at top of the Watchung

Public School system contributes to the town’s popularity.

reservation. Upon seeing the encampment, the British General

The school includes two primary centers with preschool and

Henry Clinton mistakenly concluded that Washington would attack

kindergarten; five elementary schools for Grades 1 to 5; the Lawton

his NYC camp. Instead, Washington marched south and won the

C. Johnson Summit Middle School, for about 1,000 students in

decisive Battle of Yorktown.

Grades 6 to 8, and Summit High School, with about 1,200 students in Grades 9 to 12.

For many years Summit remained a rural community. After World War II, with growing families and increased commuting to New

Registration for Kindergarten begins in February for the following

York City, Summit grew into the desirable, mini-metropolis it is

year. Children must reach the age of 5 by October 1 in most New

today. Most of the homes here were built in the 1940’s which

Jersey school districts.

accounts for the quality craftsmanship and classic styles.

Summit residents take advantage of the extensive park system At the heart of Summit, the train sets the town’s rhythm. All

at nearby Watchung Reservation which includes The Deserted

morning the commuters stroll in and out of Starbucks and

Village, a dog park at Echo Lake and over 6 miles of trails.

Boxwood Coffee – or, sprint – to catch the express trains to

Theatre and art enthusiasts get their fix at The Summit Playhouse,

NYC. The ride is less than an hour. In the evenings they enjoy the

Dreamcatcher Repertory Theatre and The Visual Arts Center.

Huntley Tavern or causal dinner at the Summit Diner. Our agents strongly recommend Marigold’s for take-out, The Summit Cheese

Regardless of your reason for choosing Summit, you will find

Shop, Roots for steak, and Natale’s for out- of- this- world cake.

good value, well-kept properties, and a vibrant downtown. And a commuter’s dream: 30 minutes to Newark Liberty Airport –(that’s 30 minutes closer to Paris) - and 50 minutes to New York City.

19

WESTFIELD

Westfield has been home to quite a few famous writers. In addition

Many satisfied residents describe the town as “just big enough” and

to Charles Addams, famous for the creepy, kooky Addams Family,

“just small enough.” The annual Halloween parade and 4th of July

the poet Langston Hughes and the writer Zora Neal Hurston also

festivities make it feel small, the daily trains to NYC make it feel

spent time in this quaint, yet urban town. As did the producer of the

metropolitan.

Amazing Spider Man. The town also offers a community pool, a community theatre, a According to historians, the British colonists bought Westfield

movie house, Rialto Theatre, an orchestra and a live summer jazz

and its surrounding land for “2 coats, ten bars of lead, two guns,

series; and an impressive public library with an equally impressive

two kettles, twenty handfuls of gun powder, and 400 fathoms

history, begun as a book borrowing club in the 1800’s.

of wampum.” Clearly, our Lenape natives never imagined the commuters of our 21st Century - cell phones in hand, headed to

The well-regarded school system is another draw. It consists of

Penn Station.

a centralized pre-K and Kindergarten, 6 elementary schools, 2 middle schools, and one high school.

Today, the short commute to New York City or Hoboken is the main attraction to Westfield. The Raritan line at the center of the bustling

Registration for Kindergarten, Pre-K and First grade begins in

town provides non-stop service to New York’s Penn Station. The

January by appointment. Children enrolled in Kindergarten must be

average commute is under an hour.

5 by October 1 in most New Jersey public schools.

What do Westfielders do with the time they save? Many line-up

When our agent finds a house for you in Westfield, they are not

for breakfast at the Bagel Chateau. Our agents say it’s worth the

exaggerating about the speed in which it will sell. No matter

wait! They also recommend dining at The Turning Point, Addams

what your reason for moving to Westfield, you will find properties

Tavern, Rooster Spin or Chez Catherine’s for special occasions.

that hold their value, a vibrant town and a commuter’s dream: 30

They applaud the tailor, Francolino Clothier; Lord and Taylor’s for

minutes to Newark Liberty Airport –(that’s 30 minutes closer to

one-stop shopping and the AR Workshop for a night of wine and

Paris) - and 50 minutes to New York City.

painting. They recommend On The Side for a massage. They love CARE. SERVE. GIVE.

20

Cosmos and Ferraros for Italian, and The Farmhouse Store for home décor. Google the town yourself; you will be overwhelmed by options and positive reviews.

TESTIMONIALS For more reviews, please visit www.PollockGroupZillowReviews.com “For the first time in my life, I understand how important a good real estate agent is, and Vanessa Pollock does it ALL! She’s the real deal, folks: smart, super-organized, compassionate and always available. She’s like a rock star in the real estate world. Like Madonna, but taller.

And with darker hair. And less Kabbalah.”

- Norbert Leo Butz “Vanessa Pollock helped us buy our first home 10 years ago – in fact she just sent us an anniversary email to congratulate us on the anniversary! Her professionalism and kindness helped made our transition from New York so much easier for us. She is incredibly knowledgable, honest, and patient, and is really there for you throughout the process. If you need a realtor who knows the area and will be there with you from the start to the end, she and her team are the perfect choice.”

- Rita Orell “I recommend Vanessa Pollock and her team to everyone I encounter who is looking to make the move out of NYC. She is thoughtful, compassionate and intuitive. She listens. We thank her daily as we continue to enjoy the house that she found us. The house we didn’t really think we were looking for until we arrived and found ourselves HOME. But the quality that sets her apart is her involvement in the community she represents. She and her team, through their sponsorship of art, music and food festivals and scholarship drives for example, have helped to build an environment that we are proud to be a part of.”

- Christiane Noll “I cannot think of another agent I would recommend more highly than Vanessa Pollock and her amazing team. They consider every aspect of the service they are providing, and go above and beyond to ensure you feel comfortable during that process. Vanessa honors her motto of “Care. Serve. Give.” with attention to detail, personable advice, and follow-up correspondence. They are the very definition of Dream Team.”

- Nicole Van Giesen “Vanessa worked with one of my (architectural) clients to find a house several years ago. They

were extremely happy with her service, her attention to their needs and the hand holding throughout the process.

I then recommended Vanessa to a friend who was selling his condo, and again, he was completely impressed by the professionalism of the entire team. She even referred him to a realtor in Sarasota, where he was moving.

I’ve been able to get to know Vanessa on a personal level as well and she is someone who is very dedicated to high standards as well as committed to making a contribution to the local community. I would never hesitate to recommend her to my clients or friends.”

- Gary Rosard, ARCHITECT “Vanessa and her team are knowledgable, enthusiastic and deeply caring! She guided us through listing and selling our house and now her wonderful team is helping us to find a new property to purchase! The way this team contributes to the community should be a huge factor in choosing to work with Vanessa! They do not just take – they give to local programs – including to the the music programs in the SOMA school district. In addition the team is warm and just plain fun to work with.”

- Lydia Johnson “Vanessa and her team are the Gold Standard in Essex County. From the moment we started working with them, we felt like a part of the family. We were assisted through every step of this complicated process with grace, expertise, and humor. Truly a great experience!”

- Chuck Rea “Vanessa just gets it. She takes the time to listen and understand your needs and ensures that she is working towards your wants & needs whether it be buying or selling a home (we have done both with her). Working with a realtor who has a team working for her ensures you get immediate responses to any questions or

concerns.

Buying or selling a house is a stressful and often lengthy process – you want to be sure that you work with someone who is not only excellent at what they do but who is kind, considerate and fun to spend time with! Vanessa is all this.”

- Jacqueline Anderson “Vanessa Pollock was our realtor when we were looking to sell our South Orange home in order to upgrade to a larger home in town. Vanessa was the epitome of professionalism and knew exactly how to get us the perfect results we sought. She ably explained how to prepare our home so that it would show like a dream.

Thanks to Vanessa, we accepted an offer at asking price within four days of our home being on the market and she worked her magic to get us into our beautiful forever home with unparalleled persistence and expertise. We have been happily living here for close to six years now. We’re not moving anytime soon, but I am always delighted when I have the opportunity to recommend Vanessa and her skillful team. No one else that I know of has the same unique blend of super heroine negotiation skills, knowledge of the local market, warmth and heart. She’s the whole package!”

- Nadine Kerstan

CARE. SERVE. GIVE. 21

CLOSING FOR A CAUSE

Examples of a few charities we have donated to over the years:

When you buy your home essa: Dear Van

with us, you won’t get a

r u for you thank yo elle to o t d e t n We wa of Miab As you in name Hospital. donation ’s n e and r d il ti Ch tle baby Cincinna hey saved our lit LH/ wt ed with H t ic fl in may kno n e n er childr noble tha many oth is nothing more t a h t n utio ere nd instit FLH. Th a to e s s e u c a r c u rt a d reso n a s t r to suppo o ff s all its e dedicate . n e r ild saving ch be as le would p o lf e p e r mo s yourse We wish iderate a s n o c d n a generous am. te r u o y and dness your kin r fo h c u u very m Thank yo ration. ide and cons . Sellers Essex Rd 4 2 , e d u tit With gra

CARE. SERVE. GIVE.

22

closing gift. Instead, we ask that you chose the charity of your choice and we donate to that charity on your behalf. Start thinking about what charity you are most passionate about - your home purchase will make a difference!

www.ClosingForACause.org

We care about you and this community.

We are experts who provide the best service in the real estate industry.

We give back to the charity of our clients’ choice, as well as to the community we serve.

23

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING “We had a friend recommend an agent from The Pollock Group. I immediately liked her. She was fun to work with, knowledgeable and flexible. She helped us know what was priced right, or not worth the money. The closing was seemless and easy. I would definitely recommend using them.” - a Buyer review on Zillow.com

“We had a great experience using the VP team! They helped us navigate the tricky process of selling a coop in Manhattan while purchasing a home in NJ. They are the best at what they do and I definitely trust the team members’ opinions, advice and extensive knowledge. You can’t go wrong with the VP Team! Highly recommend!”

- a Buyer review on Zillow.com

“5 stars across the board. I did not realize that this process could be this easy, warm and fun. We’ve been so well cared for. My wife and I are first-time buyers. Once we met with the first member of the Pollock team, we knew we had found the right folks. Through the process, we’ve met FIVE members of the team and our experience with each of them has been flawless. These folks KNOW WHAT THEY ARE DOING. In a very short amount of time we partnered to find the perfect home for our family and, again, the process has been a joy. Any time - like literally ANY TIME - we had a question (and we had a lot), someone from the team has gotten right back to us and made sure we had the answers that we needed before we parted ways. In the end we not only found the perfect home but also we’re entering that home well-informed and totally prepared for the homeowner journey. If you are looking to buy or sell a home..., go with the Pollock Group. They nailed it.” - a recent Buyer review on Zillow.com

Serving Northern New Jersey: PollockPropertiesGroup.com

488 Springfield Ave Summit, NJ 07901

518 Millburn Avenue Short Hills, NJ 07078

188 Elm Street Westfield, NJ 07090

Each office is independently owned and operated.