Buying a HomeLiving In Your Home May 22, 2023

Termites Want To Feast On Your Home

Termites want to feast on your home. Yikes!

As the summer weather warms up, the dirt is a breeding ground for termites. Here are some things to consider when you are buying a home or maintaining it.

What you need to know about termites!

  •  What are termites?
    •  Termites are insects that nest in the ground and feast on wood. Your home is a meal for them. Not only can they cause major damage, but they can also affect the structure of your home. This can be costly for you to repair. If termites are found, you would want to know if the house structure has been compromised.

The tell tale sign of termites!

  • Signs that termites are present.
    • You would see mud tubes
    • You would see evidence of intermittent lines along a wood beam or wood columns
    • Sawdust is found on horizontal parts of the home

Termite Mud Tubes    Sawdust from Termites

You can prevent termite damage!

  •  Termite inspections.
    • A termite inspection is a very important part of the home buying process. A pest control inspector can offer more guidance. They will not only check for presence of evidence, but also advise if the home’s structure was affected.
  • Termite treatments vs not having one. 
    • Many buyer are anxious about termite inspections. I like to point out that it’s a good thing if the house has already been treated. Not only does the house have a layer of protection, but often the warranty this treatment is transferrable to the new owner. The buyer would continue to make payments so the warranty stays current. Furthermore, if further treatment needs to be done, the warranty will cover that. If termites are found to be present during your home inspection, a termite treatment would be requested. A pest control company is contacted to schedule a treatment. You should always confirm the warranty details with each company.
  • Annual inspections should be scheduled.
    • This home is your most expensive investment. It is important to keep an annual check-up for it. Although you many not find evidence of termites during your home inspection, this does not guarantee that your home won’t be affected after. Annual termite inspections are necessary and highly recommended.

It is important to work with a trusted advisor to guide you on how to protect yourself when purchasing a home.

Contact met today!

Roslyn Sibilia, Realtor®
732-995-5609
Sibilia@ERAcentral.com
NJHomesbyRoslyn.com

 

Community NewsEnjoying New Jersey May 5, 2023

Senior Center Events In Freehold Township

Why is Freehold Township so desirable? There is something to do in May for all ages.

The Freehold Township Senior Center is located at 116 Jackson Mills Rd, Freehold Township, NJ 07728 in Michael J.Tighe Park. It is easily accesed by Route 9 and Jackson Mills Road.  This space is even available for parties and events and I have been there for a few, such as a sports banquet for Freehold Towship High School.

Events at this location run all year long. You are also within a Freehold Township park to enjoy the area outside.

Spring is in the air. Just moved here? It’s a geat time to get out an meet new neighbors. If you are looking for companionship, new hobby interests or events to attend with those closer in age, why not check out the schedule of events?

Events include not only painting, aerobics, movies, but also trips. You will have a full schedule that’s filled with fun.

The May movie of the month is:

Till

Click here if you are looking for more information on how to join the Freehold Township Senior Center.

🏠Roslyn Sibilia
📞732-995-5609
💻 NJHomesbyRoslyn.com

Buying a Home April 27, 2023

Hitting The Home Run Of Homeownership

Hitting the home run of ownership feels like hitting a home run in the game of baseball. There are steps to get to a home run for both.

In baseball, there are bases to run and pass getting you one step closer to home base. Well, it’s like that in real estate, too.

Taking the proper steps for a home purchase gets you one step closer to your real estate goal.  If you just sit back at the base watching the pitches go by, you’ll be out of the game. In the real estate world it works the same way. You have to be in the game of real estate swinging at opportunities to win.

The beginning steps to buying a home is easy. You just have to do it! Let’s run the bases together to get a better understanding.

  1. First Base: Consult with a loan advisor to be pre-qualified for loan. They will ask for your fiancial information, such as bank statements and employment verification with salary amount. Your credit will also be checked.
  2. Second Base: Once you know your price range, consult with a Realtor (me) to discuss your home search. We will discuss your towns of interest and your home search criteria within your price range.
  3. Third Base: View homes and narrow down which you like the best. Compare closed home prices to arrive at a fair offer for the home. Trust your Realtor’s advice on the best terms to offer as real estate markets are ever-changing. Present your offer for acceptance.
  4. Home Run: You are now a homeowner.

As a coach advises you about strategy in baseball, a Realtor advises on your home purchase strategy. Remember, the most important stategy is taking that first swing.

Contact me today to get you on your way to a home purchase win!

🏠Roslyn Sibilia
📞732-995-5609
💻 NJHomesbyRoslyn.com

 

Selling A Home April 23, 2023

Why Professional Listing Photos Matter!

Why professional listing photos matter. Having professional photos for your home listing is important for several reasons.

269 Lanes Pond Rd, Howell, NJ 07731  269 Lanes Pond Rd, Howell, NJ 07731    155 & 151 Pittenger Pond Rd., Freehold, NJ 07728  22 Westbrook Way, Manalapan, NJ 07726    22 Westbrook Way, Manalapan, NJ 07726

 

  1. First impressions: Possible buyers look through listings online or in print. The photos are usually the first thing they see for your home. Professional photos can create a positive first impression and attract buyers to schedule a showing.
  2. Highlighting features: Professional photos can present the best features of your home. This not only has to do with natural lighting, but also architectural details, and unique design elements. This can make your home stand out from others on the market.
  3. Accuracy: Professional photographers use high-quality equipment and know how to capture your home in the best light. They can ensure that the photos accurately represent your home’s size, layout, and features.
  4. Increased interest: Listings with professional photos tend to attract more interest from potential buyers than those with low-quality or unprofessional photos. This can result in more showings and offers, ultimately leading to a quicker sale.

Overall, professional photos can help you make a strong first impression, highlight your home’s best features, and increase interest from potential buyers, making them an important investment for any home seller.

I make it a point to hire a photographer to showcase you home in the best way possible, whether it be just photos, a 3D virtual tour or aerial photos. Also I virtually stage the photo should it need to be due to the rooms being vacant, as well.

When your photos are done, you will want to buy your home all over again.

Contact me today to know more!

🏠Roslyn Sibilia

📞732-995-5609

💻 NJHomesbyRoslyn.com

Enjoying New Jersey April 22, 2023

It’s National Picnic Day in Monmouth County

It’s National Picnic day in Monmouth County.

National Picnic Day is an unofficial holiday celebrated annually on April 23rd in the United States. It is a day dedicated to enjoying the outdoors and celebrating the arrival of spring. On this day, people gather with friends and/or family. Not only do they to enjoy a picnic in a park, but also on the beach, or in their own backyard. Picnics often include blankets, sandwiches, fruit, chips, and other snacks. It’s a time to relax, have fun, and appreciate nature. The origin of National Picnic Day are unclear, However, it is believed to have started as a way to celebrate the end of winter and the beginning of spring. Are you ready to celebrate warmer weather ahead?

Places to celebrate Picnic Day:

  • There are many beautiful parks and outdoor spaces in Monmouth County, NJ to celebrate National Picnic Day. It’s a great day for ages. Here are a few places to go.
    1. Thompson Park in Lincroft: This park offers plenty of picnic tables, grills, and open space for a fun picnic. It also has hiking trails, playgrounds, and a lake.
    2. Seven Presidents Oceanfront Park in Long Branch: This park has a beautiful beach and ocean views. You can also find picnic tables and grills for a seaside picnic, too.
    3. Allaire State Park in Wall Township: This park has picnic areas, a lake, hiking and biking trails, and historic buildings to explore.
    4. Holmdel Park in Holmdel: You can enjoy the picnic areas, playground and hiking trail. There is even a historic farmstead to visit.
    5. Deep Cut Gardens in Middletown: Beautiful gardens and natural beauty surround the picnic area in this park.

Click on the following link for more parks to enjoy picnic day in Monmouth County.

Monmouth County Parks

Remember to always check park rules and regulations before planning your picnic, and be sure to follow Leave No Trace principles to help protect the environment.

 

 

 

Selling A Home April 7, 2023

Preparing Your Home For Sale -What To Address

Preparing your home for sale can be a daunting task, but it’s an essential step in maximizing your sale price and getting your home sold quickly. Here are some important things to address to get your home sale ready:

  1. Declutter: Clear out any unnecessary items, including excess furniture, personal belongings, and decor. This will help make your home feel more spacious and appealing to potential buyers.
  2. Deep Clean: A clean home is essential for making a good impression on buyers. Scrub everything from floors to walls and make sure your home smells fresh and clean.
  3. Repairs: Fix any outstanding issues such as leaky faucets, broken tiles, or cracked windows. These minor repairs can make a significant difference in the value of your home.
  4. Neutralize: Consider repainting bold or unique wall colors to a more neutral tone. This will allow buyers to envision themselves in the space more easily.
  5. Enhance curb appeal: First impressions are critical, so make sure the exterior of your home looks its best. Clean up the yard, trim hedges, and plant flowers or plants if needed.
  6. Stage your home: Highlight your home’s best features by strategically placing furniture, adding decor, and maximizing space. Consider hiring a professional stager if you need assistance.

By addressing these areas, you’ll increase your chances of attracting potential buyers and getting the best possible price for your home.

If you are looking for guidance on preparing your home for sale and the home selling process, contact me today!

🏠Roslyn Sibilia
📞732-995-5609
💻 NJHomesbyRoslyn.com

 

Living In Your HomeSelling A Home April 4, 2023

Homeowners Prefer Light Exterior Paint Colors

Homeowners prefer light exterior house paint colors. Trends change over the years, nonetheless light colors are in for 2023.

These are some exterior paint colors preferred according to Realtor® Magazine.

  1. Off-white/cream
  2. White
  3. Light gray
  4. Light brown
  5. Medium blue

Exteior House Colors-Realtor®Magazine

Lighter exterior homes have benefits.

  1. Energy Efficiency:
    1. Light colors reflect sunlight and heat.
    2. The interior of the house is cooler during summer.
  2. Aesthetic Appeal:
    1. Light colors can make a home appear larger
    2. Homes are more inviting.
    3. Offers great curb appeal when combined with landscaping, lighting, and architecture.
  3. Resale Value:
    1. Color popularity
    2. These colors are appealing to potential buyers.
    3. Light colors can also increase the resale value of a home.
  4. Maintenance:
    1. Lighter colors tend to show less dirt and wear than darker colors.
    2. Offers ease maintenance and cleaning.
  5. Climate:
    1. In warmer climates, light colors reflect heat.
    2. In colder climates darker colors absorb heat.

Overall, homeowners prefer light exterior house colors due to many factors. These factors vary and include energy efficiency, appeal, resale value, maintenance and climate.

If you are looking to give your home a new look, then consider painting the exterior. However, if you will be selling your home, you might want to consider a light color paint.

For more homeselling tips, contact me today!

🏠Roslyn Sibilia
📞732-995-5609
💻 NJHomesbyRoslyn.com

Community NewsEnjoying New JerseyLiving In Your Home April 2, 2023

Making Monmouth County Home…Freehold Township

If you are looking to make Monmouth County home, then consider Freehold Township. When interviewed by The New York Times, I called this town “the hub of Monmouth County”. This town has it all and can get you anywhere you need to go.

Shopping, dining and entertainment is all around.

  • The Freehold Raceway mall offers shopping and dining. While shopping about, you can grab a bite either at the food court or restaurants directly outside. This mall is home to the Cheesecake Factory , PF Changs, Brio and more.  Nearby in town you can find The Olive Garden, Moore’s Tavern, Esconditos, Longhornes, Mahzu, Clarizios, Tommy’s Tavern & Tap and many more! There is a meal for everyone’s taste.
  • When shopping is one, you can head to AMC Theaters-Freehold . I am sure you can find a favorite movie to watch. This multiplex center offers 14 theaters to catch a movie while enjoying reclining cozy seats. It’s never too late to check out the latest blockbuster!

There is easy access everywhere  from Freehold Township with major routes.

  • Being within only about an hour to NYC and Philadelphia, you are never far from additional entertainment, shopping and recreation. If you have a urge to ski or see a concert out of state, living in Freehold Township offers an easy route to your destination.  With many routes throughout, such as Route 9, 18, 33, 34, 79, 524 and 537, you can also easily access the GSP and the NJ Turnpike. Living in Freehold Township you are only about 30 min to take in the scenery of our beautiful beaches. Also, head approximately 25 minutes west to enjoy the attractions at Six Flags Great Adventure  approx. 20 minutes west.

There are many opportunities for all types of recreation and sports.

  • Freehold Township is the home to many county parks with lots of activities for all. The Freehold Township Recreation Department, which includes events, dances and sports for children of many ages has events year round.  This town also has Green Acres which is important to it’s residents to keep a balance of homes to the natural beauty around.

Freehold Township Education covers elementary schools and the Freehold Regional High School District. 

  • The educational system is made of 2 districts. There is one for the elementary schools and one for the high schools. The elementary school district is comprised of 5 elementary schools which go from grade K through 5. The 2 middle schools have grades fro 6 through 8.  The Freehold Regional HS District (FRHSD) one of the largest districts in the state, includes high schools from towns in Western Monmouth County, that also have specialized learning centers and other vocational schools , too. These towns include Freehold Township, Freehold, Manalapan, Marlboro, Howell and Colts Neck. Within the district are programs offered at the  Monmouth County Vocational School District, too.

There are homes of all styles throughout the town.

  • Freehold Township welcomes you and awaits its newest residents. This area is home to many developments such as Poets Corner, Champions Run, Seven Oaks, College Park, Raintree and more. You can find 1 and 2 level homes, homes within developments with amenities offered and home with large yards to design as you wish. Adult communities can be found here, as well.

Homes of Freehold

Looking to make Monmouth County home and think Freehold Township is the place for you? Contact me, today!

🏠Roslyn Sibilia
📞732-995-5609
💻 NJHomesbyRoslyn.com

Community NewsEnjoying New Jersey April 2, 2023

Senior Center Events In Freehold Township

April showers bring Senior Center events in Freehold Township.

Why is Freehold Township so desirable?

There is something for everyone and all ages.

The Freehold Township Senior Center is located at 116 Jackson Mills Rd, Freehold Township, NJ 07728 in Michael J.Tighe Park. It is easily accesed by Route 9 and Jackson Mills Road.  This space is even available for parties and events and I have been there for a few, such as a sports banquet for Freehold Towship High School.

Events at this location run all year long. You are also within a Freehold Township park to enjoy the area outside.

Spring is in the air. Just moved here? It’s a geat time to get out an meet new neighbors. If you are looking for companionship, new hobby interests or events to attend with those closer in age, why not check out the schedule of events?

Events include not only painting, aerobics, movies, but also trips. You will have a full schedule that’s filled with fun.

Some of the movie playing this month is:Movies at the Freehold Township Senior Center

Freehold Township Senior Center April Activities

If you are looking for other activites Freehold Township has to offer, contact me today!

🏠Roslyn Sibilia
📞732-995-5609
💻 NJHomesbyRoslyn.com

Community NewsEnjoying New JerseyLiving In Your Home March 28, 2023

Making Monmouth County Home…Asbury Park

Making Monmouth County Home

Are you looking to make Monmouth County your home? Well, there are many great towns to choose from. Monmouth County is centrally located in New Jersey with 4 borders: Middlesex, Mercer and Ocean Counties with our 4th neighbor…the Shoreline!

As one of the largest counties in NJ, Monmouth County is considered a favorite offering so many different types of towns. Ask any resident and they are quick to share why their town is the best. Having major highways run through it, I consider Monmouth County the “hub” of New Jersey.  You can access other towns easily whether you travel north, south or west.

Featured Town: Asbury Park

Asbury Park is a waterfront town with a long boardwalk offering restaurants and shops to enjoy. It is a place for all ages. Cool off at the water park or beach. Then head to the arcade and a show. Asbury Park reminds me of an “Urban Beach”. While having a city feeling with many older residences and city like streets, the beach is nearby.

This seaside city is not stranger to many famous musicians. Many have had the start of their careers here at the Stone Pony. You can still catch concerts here showcasing many bands, such as New Jersey natives Bruce Springsteen and Jon Bon Jovi. The 1920s Paramount Theatre is a historical landmark.

Where should you have a meal? A few favorites are The Robinson Ale House and Stella Marina Restaurant & Bar.  Brando’s City Cucina offers great Italian food with a low light ambiance. Other places offering more casual dining are Johnny Mac’s, Wonder Bar, Asbury Ale House, Watermark and Bond Street. Cookman Street is a meeting place of restaurants and more shops and where you can find the Toast City Diner.

If you would like to know about Monmouth County or think you would like to live in Asbury Park, contact me today!

🏠Roslyn Sibilia
📞732-995-5609
💻 NJHomesbyRoslyn.com