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Month: September 2017

October 2017 – NJ Events To Attend

You are planning a short weekend getaway to New Jersey next week, but you do not know where to start. Don’t fret as NJ hosts a wide range of events every month. Here are some of the top October 2017 NJ events you should keep in mind. Let’s find out more:

Flying W Airshow

Head on down to 60 Fostertown Road, on October 1st, 2017 and catch the Flying W Airshow with your family! The wonderful airshow will be held at a public-use airport that also features facilities such as an on-site motel and restaurant. Some of the notable performers you can check out include Team Redline, Bat Copter & Bat Mobile, Jason Flood, and the Raiders Demo Team.

Dinosaurs After Dark

Are you a dinosaur enthusiast? Are your kids the one asking you to bring them to a dinosaur-themed event? If the answer is yes to either question, you would not want to miss the Dinosaurs After Dark event, which will be available until October 27th, 2017. Event-goers will be taken on a fun and mysterious journey into a shadowy, prehistoric world. The thing about this event is that it is unlike your usual trip to the zoo. There is a T-Rex on the loose and danger lurks in every corner!

Seaside Heights Oktoberfest

Remember to set your alarm clock to go off early on October 1st, 2017 because the second annual Oktoberfest will be kicking off early at 11 am with the Tapping of the Keg event! If you are attending the event, you are entitled to one tasting session. You will also be able to check out seasonal craft beer, authentic German food, great bands, a range of food trucks, as well as works from local artisan and crafters. If you are bringing your kids along with you, there is a kids’ zone to keep them entertained!

21st Annual Pine Barrens Jamboree

Located at Wells Mills County Park, the annual Pine Barrens Jamboree event features a full day of cultural demonstrations, history and nature programs, traditional crafts, and music of the pines. The event is slated to happen on October 14th, 2017, rain or shine. Come and chill under their big tent and enjoy traditional and bluegrass music presented by musicians from the Albert Music Hall.

Metro Gathering Geocaching Mega Event

The mega event will be held from October 28th to 29th, 2017, and the theme for the event is the Legend of Sleepy Hollow. This is a wonderful opportunity for anyone to join the entire New Jersey Geocaching community at the recently restored historic town of Waterloo Village. Some of the interesting things you can do at the event include getting into the Halloween Spirit while walking among goblins, ghosts, and jack-o-lanterns. You can be sure that this is a family-friendly event as there are scavenger hunts, geocaches, games, and a wide array of delicious food for everyone to enjoy.

With so many wonderful events happening in New Jersey all year round, it is difficult for anyone to get bored. If you are interested in staying in the state and want to look at the latest NJ real estate options, look no further than NJLux. We are more than happy to help you with your real estate needs.

Irresistible Benefits Of Owning A House In Bergen County

For ages, Bergen County has been considered one of the best places to own a house in the Garden State. There are several benefits that come with owning a house in Bergen County. If you are looking to live up to the American dream of owning a house, remember to work with a reputable real estate agent in Bergen County to help you find an ideal property.

However, before owning a home, you need to determine whether house ownership is the right financial move for you. Consider both the advantages and the disadvantages of being a homeowner before making the decision. This post will list some of the top benefits of owning a home to help you make an informed choice.

Regular Monthly Payments

The majority of homeowners acquire their properties with the help of mortgages. Once you make the decision to buy a house, the next step is usually to find a lender who will offer you the best mortgage rates. Most people prefer applying for a fixed rate mortgage in New Jersey. This type of mortgage allows homeowners to make stable monthly payments over a period of time. This allows the homeowner to budget ahead of time. The homeowner will also enjoy peace of mind, knowing that rates will not suddenly change, unlike in the case of renting property.

Opportunity To Build Equity

A house is not just a place you can live in and raise a family, but it is also considered as a long term investment. Owning a home means that you have to pay more towards the principle balance of any liens. Over time, the balance of the liens decreases, and the value of the property increases. This is then a perfect opportunity for building equity.

Cheaper Than Renting

At first glance, renting a house seems like a cheaper financial move than owning a home. When buying a home, we usually need to pay an appraisal fee, the down payment, and other expenses such as the homeowner’s insurance. However, once you get past this initial stage of owning a house, the cost of monthly payments goes down when compared to renting a house. Not only do you save on monthly payments, you also end up owning the property at the end of the needed payments.

Tax Advantages

As much as we want to avoid paying taxes, taxes are a necessary evil. The good news is that owning a home provides solid tax advantages. Homeowners have the advantage of deducting their monthly interests from their annual tax returns. This means at the end of every fiscal year, homeowners get the benefit of deducting a substantial amount of the interests paid when they are paying taxes. It is best to talk to an accountant to clearly understand how owning a home can impact your tax payments.

Freedom To Make Property Changes

Unlike in the case of renting, homeowners have the advantage of customizing their homes, depending on their preferences. It is very hard to renovate or even make the slightest changes in a house when you are renting. Homeowners can make home improvements which can potentially raise the value of their properties.

Build Your Credit Score

To build the credit score, you need to have a good credit history. Applying for a mortgage improves your chances of building a good credit score. What you need to do is to ensure that you make your monthly payments on time to avoid late payment charges. Paying your mortgage on time shows the lenders that you are responsible, and it will in turn increase your chances of doing well for your credit score.

Look Out For Luxury Kitchen Fixtures During Property Viewing

The kitchen is one of the first rooms that get noticed in any home. It is the most frequently used area in a home. Most buyers looking for a house will insist on checking out the kitchen area first to see if it will fit their needs.

If you are looking for an upscale house, there are certain luxury kitchen features that you need to look out for to ensure you get the right home. It is best to let your real estate agent know exactly what you are looking for in a home and specify these features to ensure you get value for your money.

In modern upscale homes, there are several high end kitchen features that have become a must. These features not only spruce up a home but, they also add property value. Some of the luxury features to look out for in a kitchen other than sleek countertops include:

Cool Room

A cool room is an entire area in kitchen dedicated to storing perishables that don’t require to be put in a freezer. It is basically referred to as a walk-in fridge. If you are looking for a luxurious spacious house, you need to check out if they have this addition which can be a cool addition to your kitchen.

Walk-in Pantry

If you are looking for luxurious home, one of the main aspects to consider is space. This means that every area of your home has to be spacious which includes the kitchen. When buying a luxurious home, check if the kitchen has a walk-in pantry. A walk-in pantry offers enough storage space in your kitchen to avoid cluttering. A spacious walk-in pantry will also allow you to customize it to include crafted cabinets, pull-out shelves or even a wine refrigerator.

Pot Filler

A pot filler is a swing-out faucet that is mounted on the wall above the stove. Pot fillers are small but very useful when it comes to lugging heavy pots from the sink to the stove. This luxurious kitchen feature is found in most modern homes and has become trendy over the years. Pot fillers are not only functional in a kitchen but they are also designed in a way they add an aesthetic appeal in the kitchen. They add a professional look to a kitchen.

Dishwasher, Refrigerator And Warming Drawers

To compliment a refrigerator, refrigerator drawers are installed to add storage space. Refrigerator drawers are made of steel and they add a glossy element which adds appeal to the kitchen. They provide easy access to food while keeping it fresh.

Modern dishwasher drawers are installed to include several drawers that can be used to clean a variety of dishes. Dishwasher drawers not only clean dishes but they can also be used as a storage for dishes as well. They are very easy to use.

Warming drawers are a beautiful and unique addition to modern kitchens. They are used to keep food warm for a period of time before serving. These warming drawers have thermostats which you use to set a desired temperature you wish your food to maintain.

Best Camping Sites In New Jersey

Are you a nature enthusiast looking for the best camping sites in New Jersey? New Jersey has many campgrounds open to the public and they offer a wide variety of facilities, scenery and nearby attractions. These camp grounds are family friendly and they offer recreational activities for people looking to enjoy the outdoors in groups. Most camp sites do not restrict the moderate use of alcohol. Here are some of the top camp sites in New Jersey.

Harmony Ridge Farm & Camp Ground

This campsite is located in 23 Ruston Drive, Branchville, NJ. The area surrounding the camp site is wooded and has mountains which make it a great getaway spot for people looking to take a break from the hustles and bustles of the city. The facilities offered at the campground include a Laundromat, heated restrooms with hot showers, game room, snack bar, dump station, and party tent rentals. There are a number of activities that one can engage in while camping which include swimming, boating, fishing, hiking and ball games. Campers can also enjoy the nearby mountains and engage in snowmobiling, cross country skiing and ice skating. Bird watching in the area is open all year.

Camp Taylor Campground

This camp site is located on a 400 acres area in Columbia. It borders the majestic terrain offered by the Appalachian Trail and the Delaware Water Gap National Recreational Area. The area is covered with wooded mountain ridges which provide campers with large shade sites and miles of hiking trails. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy the remote wilderness setting. Campers have the choice to decide whether to camp in a primitive site or sites with electric facilities. Some of the recreation facilities offered at the campground include boat rentals, recreation field, playground, miniature golf and game room. Alcohol is permitted as long as it is taken in moderation.

Mohican Outdoor Center

Mohican Outdoor Center is an ideal retreat for group camping. Visitors can enjoy hiking in the nearby Appalachian Trail or go to the nearby wetlands to spot local wildlife. There are several fun outdoor activities offered at the center which include taking a dip in catfish pond. Visitors can book self-service lodgings with fully stocked kitchens or choose to settle in one of the campsites available.

Panther Lake Camping

This campsite is built on a 45 acre area and it is located 50 miles from New York City. Nature lovers can enjoy sandy beaches, boating, swimming and fishing. Those who don’t prefer buying their camping equipment have trailer and cabin rental options. Alcohol is permitted but only for people who are 21 and above. This is a pet friendly campground.

These are some of the top camping sites New Jersey has to offer. New Jersey has a lot more to offer its locals and this makes the city a number one choice for people looking to settle down. If you are looking to settle down in New Jersey, there are several great property listings that you can check out. Contact a real estate agent in New Jersey to help you locate the best property in an area you prefer.

Neighborhood Guide: Teaneck, NJ

Teaneck, NJ is a township that was incorporated in 1895. Located in central Bergen County, Teaneck is the second most populous town with a population of nearly 40,000. The zip codes for the township are 07666 and 07688. Teaneck is widely recognized for its robust diversity, and is known to possesses regional importance. Part of the reason is that it is home to the Holy Name Hospital and the Fairleigh Dickinson University. If you are visiting Teaneck sometime soon, be sure to check out this neighborhood guide!

Living in Teaneck, NJ

As a parent, you will be pleased to know that Teaneck is a family-friendly neighborhood. The township is home to a wide range of public elementary and middle schools, including Teaneck Community Charter School, Whittier School, Benjamin Franklin Middle School, Lowell School, and more. When your kid is eligible for high school education, they may choose to attend Teaneck Senior High School. Teaneck also offers many opportunities for leisure activities. You can visit one of the many natural reserves and parks here. Another unique feature about Teaneck a significant number of historic homes exist in the neighborhood. These buildings date back to the colonial era, and have been fairly well-preserved to this day. All in all, Teaneck is an interesting place to live in, and settle down for the long term.

Dining Spots

  • Amarone Ristorante

Amarone Ristorante is an internationally renowned restaurant brand that serves authentic and traditional Italian fare. Using a renovated carriage house as the backdrop, you will be able to order delectable Italian dishes such as Osso Buco and Risotto. Definitely a stellar spot to dine with family and friends!

  • ETC Steakhouse

Located at 1409 Palisade Avenue, ETC Steakhouse is an upscale kosher restaurant that features the finest of fresh, seasonal produce, offering a unique dining experience to the residents in Teaneck. ETC Steakhouse continually strives to create memorable menus to please their customers, so the next time you are in town, remember to pay it a visit!

Points of Interest

  • Flat Rock Brook Nature Center

This is a 150-acre education center and natural reserve that was founded in 1973. With 3.6 miles of trails, the Flat Rock Brook Nature Center and its woodlands are one of the last surviving bits of the Palisades Forest. Check out their self-guiding trails, and gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of nature!

  • New Jersey Naval Museum

Also known as NJNM, the New Jersey Naval Museum is located along the Hackensack River, and was established to pay tribute to NJ’s navy heritage and naval history. Some of the prominent exhibits here include the Balao-class submarine of World War II, and the USS Ling (SS-297). The museum is operated by the Submarine Memorial Association, and will take visitors from bow to stern, as well as provide visitors with the opportunity to view the weaponry, quarters, and exploration equipment used by sailors in the past.

From quality housing to a fine array of community amenities to reputable schools, Teaneck, NJ is a wonderful neighborhood for anyone to live in. It is pretty easy to see why the real estate scene here is constantly bustling with activity. Check out the latest Teaneck listings now!

Home Staging Hacks To Know For Selling Your NJ House

Selling a house can be a stressful period for a homeowner, if you are not well prepared. One has to juggle between getting the house ready to sell and getting ready to move to a new house. To sell a house fast, you need to get your home in the best shape first. A well-staged house attracts more potential buyers this way you end up selling your house to the highest bidder. Here’s a quick guide on home staging hacks in New Jersey to ensure a quick sale.

Hire Professionals

If you are selling your home for the first time, you probably don’t have the experience to stage a house. It is best to hire professionals to stage your house to give it a look that will attract quite a number of buyers. Hire a real estate agent with a good reputation in New Jersey to oversee the process of staging and selling your home. A professional real estate agent will ensure that the décor and furniture in the house are of high quality and well arranged.

Depersonalize Your Home

Everyone has different tastes when it comes to interior décor. With this in mind, you need to minimize personalized items on display. Use simple but elegant furniture to stage your home. Do not be tempted to over accessorize your house to avoid cluttering which can put off some buyers. Potential buyers need to picture the house as their own and visualize how their future home will look like. You need to leave as much free space as you can to create the impression that the house is bigger than it actually is. Make sure the house is well painted, both interior and exterior, and that it is spotless clean.

Boost Curb Appeal

Do you know that most potential buyers make a quick drive through a house before they even consider getting inside? How you present your house from the outside will determine the number of people who will get in the house to check it out. Boosting your curb appeal should be your number one priority. You can boost your curb appeal by mowing your lawn, clean all glass surfaces on the windows and door, plant blooming flowers on your lawn, stain or repaint the porch floor and power wash the walkways, if any.

Invest In Renovations

Nobody wants to buy a house with broken fixtures. Before selling your house, you need to check what needs to be repaired in your house. Ensure that the electric work is perfect and that the taps are well functional. You can hire a contractor to take care of any major renovations that need to be done in the house to ensure it is in perfect condition. Follow up with a paint job, both interior and exterior, to give your home a perfect finish. If you have extra money to spend, you can install new countertops and cabinet in your bathroom and kitchen to boost the appeal. Renovating your home adds property value and you will be able to fetch a good price for your home.

What You Should Know About Relocating To New Jersey

Are you relocating to New Jersey soon? People move to different states for different reasons. Moving can be a daunting task if one is not well prepared which can add stress to the process of relocating. If you are looking to settle down in New Jersey, you need to locate a reputable real estate agent with good reviews to help you locate the ideal house for you. There are several house listings in New Jersey for sale or renting at very affordable prices.

New Jersey is one of the best places that one can settle since it has a lot to offer the locals. NJ has a diverse culture and people from other places find it very accommodating. Let’s look at what makes this state stand out and what you should know about relocating to New Jersey.

Education

NJ has a great education system all the way from pre-school to university level. NJ is rated as one of the two States that have the highest percentage for preschoolers which means family with young kids can provide a good education foundation for their children. The high schools in NJ are ranked among one of the best in the country with 90.1% of students getting their diplomas. There are 63 universities and colleges in NJ where students can advance their education.

There are several great healthcare facilities in NJ, most of them located conveniently all over the State. NJ boasts of having the best healthcare systems and doctors in the nation. The hospitals in NJ have state-of-the-art facilities to provide high cutting edge cancer treatment and provide maternal and child health services. There are 70 acute care hospitals and 112 hospitals. 4 among these facilities are nationally ranked and the rest meet national high performing standards. When you relocate to NJ, you need to know that your health is in good hands.

Arts And C3ulture

NJ holds one of the best concert halls, arenas and museums. There are nearly 100 theaters in NJ that offer both locals and tourists quality entertainment through showcasing broadways and plays. The museums in NJ have a variety of artwork displays from famous artists all over the world. If you have a family, there are several arts and culture sites you can visit on a Sunday afternoon that the whole family will enjoy.

Shopping

Do you know that there is no sales tax on clothing and shoes in New Jersey? This is great news for shopaholics. There are several upscale boutiques and malls where one can do their shopping. Statistics show that for every 25-square-mile radius there are 7 shopping malls. This makes NJ one of the top areas with the most shopping malls in the world. Shopping is not just limited to malls. There are several flea markets in the state which means you cannot run out of options when shopping.

Big League Sports

NJ holds the MetLife Stadium known to host major leagues. The stadium has a 2.1 million-square-foot and can hold thousands of fans at one time. There are several other high ranking sports arenas that sport lovers can go to enjoy their favorite games.

How To Sell A Vacant House Safely

Are you selling a vacant house? There are certain things that you need to take care of first when selling a vacant house to ensure that your property remains intact and safe. There are several cases that have been reported of vacant houses being broken into and vandalized. When this happens, the property value goes down and a homeowner is forced to spend money on repairs. The following tips will help you sell your vacant house safely and to avoid losses.

Alert Law Enforcement

If you are selling a house from long distance, it is best to alert the local authorities about your vacant house. You can also look for a security patrol company near your property and ask them to check your property when making patrol calls. Robbers can easily tell when a vacant house is not being secured and they can take advantage by breaking into your home and steal expensive installations. When police make random checks to your house, this reduces the chances of your house being vandalized.

Alert Your Neighbors

Alerting the local authorities is one way to make sure that your vacant house remains safe as you look for a buyer. However, the local authorities only make random visits to your home which means that there are times your house is prone to vandalism. It is recommended that you notify your immediate neighbors that you are planning to sell your home and that it is vacant at the moment. You can ask them to keep an eye on your property and report any suspicious activities. If your neighborhood has a watch group, you also need to notify them about your vacant house so that they can keep an eye on it.

Alert Your Real Estate Agent

The best way to sell a house fast is by hiring an experienced real estate agent to find a buyer. You can ask your real estate agent to ensure the safety of your vacant house as they look for buyers. A good real estate agent will ensure there is added security to prevent vandalism and make sure that the house stays intact. You need to work together with your real estate agent to ensure that the house is safe by investing in home security devices like alarms.

Stage To Reflect An Occupied Home

Before selling your house, you are required to take photos of the interior and the exterior of the house for listing purposes. It is unfortunate that not everyone going through house listings has the intention of buying a house. Some criminals go through house listings to identify vacant houses so that they can steal. To avoid exposing your home to criminals, take photos of your home while still occupied to give an impression that the house is still occupied. Look for tips on how professionally stage your house to ensure quality photos.

Retrieve Newspapers And Mail Regularly

Criminals can easily tell a home is not occupied by the amount of uncollected mail at the entrance. You can request your neighbors or your real estate agent to retrieve mail and newspapers regularly to avoid them piling up. This gives the impression that your home has constant supervision hence keeping burglars away.

Neighborhood Guide: Leonia, NJ

Located at Bergen County, Leonia, NJ is a borough that was incorporated in 1894. As one of the best places to live in New Jersey, Leonia is home to a rich arts and culture scene. In addition, the zip code of Leonia is 07605. If you are planning to explore Leonia, then you are in luck. Here is a simple guide to help you get acquainted with the lovely borough. Let’s find out more!

Living in Leonia, NJ

For starters, many visitors have praised Leonia as being a friendly and peaceful neighborhood. Although the borough has no nightlife, you can easily and conveniently find night entertainment venues at neighboring towns. The other towns bordering Leonia include Fort Lee, Ridgefield, Ridgefield Park, Hackensack, and Englewood. If you need to travel out of Leonia, you may be pleased to know that the Big Apple is just 11 miles away. What’s more, you are just about a mile from the George Washington Bridge.

For parents, you can have peace of mind knowing that the borough is home to a reputable school system. Leonia’s strong history of creative thinkers who won Nobel Prizes and earned other academic achievements is proof of that!

Dining Spots

  • Fontana di Trevi

Located less than two miles from Leonia, Fontana di Trevi is a restaurant recognized for its classic Italian cuisine. You will be able to dine with your loved ones and friends in a comfortable and intimate setting. From Caesar salads made tableside to top-rated pastas made with rich sauces, this restaurant will become one of your favorite dining spots in no time.

  • Miga

Located at 344 Broad Avenue, Miga is one of the casual dining spots that you can find in the borough. Local diners’ experience with this restaurant is often positive as the Miga consistently delivers delicious food such as Buddae Jjigae and Boodae stew, and are known for their impeccable customer service.

Points of Interest

  • Field Station: Dinosaurs

This is an outdoor prehistoric theme park that is located in Overpeck County Park. Field Station: Dinosaurs is a family-friendly theme park and also suitable for children between the ages of three and eleven. From full-size animatronic dinosaurs, interactive exhibits to live shows, your kids will also be able to enjoy an educational walking tour to learn more about dinosaurs within the context of the local ecosystem. The park’s many exhibitions can be found at the base camp, amphitheater, dig site, riverview, and family tent.

  • Flat Rock Brook Nature Center

The 150-acre education center and preserve is situated Englewood. Establised in 1973, the Flat Rock Brook Nature Center is home to a range of trail walks and other passive recreational activities. The educational programs offered by the center are suitable for all ages. You will learn how to better protect the natural world and its resources for future generations. Come on down and try out their self-guiding trails which lead to wildflower meadows, wetlands, and more.

If you are thinking of buying a home in Leonia, we can help you find the best luxury properties in the borough. Check out the latest real estate listings in Leonia.

Looking For Delectable Chinese Food In North Bergen?

New Jersey has a large number of working class residents who heavily rely on takeout food. The city of New Jersey, especially in North Bergen, has a number of great restaurants that offer a number of international delicacies including the famous Chinese food. Most of the Chinese restaurants in North Bergen offer delivery services which are convenient to folks who don’t have the time to go down to the restaurants to eat. If you are new in town, these are some of the top Chinese restaurants in North Bergen.

Szechuan Mirchi

Located at 633 Anderson Ave, Cliffside Park, Szechuan Mirchi is one of the best restaurants in New Jersey. They not only serve the best Chinese food but, they also serve Indian and Asian Fusion delicacies. They have a great review on yelp and most customers recommend the place to people looking for delectable Chinese food. Their menu includes the famous Chinesenoodles which seems to be a favorite to many. They also have great vegetarian food. Their orders take a short time to prepare and they make deliveries to clients across the city.

Fairview Chinese Restaurant

This restaurant is located at 363 Fairview Ave, Fairview. Most reviews about the restaurant say they enjoy the quality of service offered and the food served. This is a decent restaurant which you can take your loved one to enjoy the scrumptious Chinese food served here. The setting of the restaurant is great and is family friendly which makes it a great place to dine with family and friends. While at the restaurant, don’t forget to try out their special chow mein or chop suey soup which is served with crispy noodles.

First Wok

This restaurant is located at 8101 Tonnelle Ave, North Bergen. Are you looking to taste some mouthwatering sushi? First Wok is the place to be. The restaurant is popular for serving traditional Chinese dishes with a French flare. Give your taste buds a run by enjoying different Chinese delicacies on their menu. The service at the restaurant is excellent.

Lin’s Garden

To enjoy lip-smacking Chinese boneless spare ribs or lo mien, head down to the Lin’s Garden located at 8401 Kennedy Blvd, North Bergen. The restaurant offers a variety of affordableChinese delectable. This restaurant stands out from the rest by providing great service to customers and they go the extra mile to ensure everyone is satisfied. The atmosphere is great at the restaurant which makes it the ideal place to take your date and have a fun evening. Families can also enjoy a great dinner together at the restaurant.

If you are planning to move soon to New Jersey, there is a lot that the city has to offer apart from excellent restaurants. There are various attractions that one can visit and the city also has a vibrant night life. The township of North Bergen has the best property listing that you can check out where you can access great facilities. Whether you are looking to rent or buy a house, contact one of the best real estate agents today for more information.

Manson in night view

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