Termites Want To Feast On Your Home

by Roslyn Sibilia

Termites want to feast on your home. Yikes! Whether you just purchased your home and had a termite inspection or it’s been many years, you should have an annual termite inspection.

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 and Where?

- 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.
- There are mud tubes
- There is evidence of intermittent lines along a wood beam or wood columns
- Sawdust is found on horizontal parts of the home

How to 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 of any evidence of damage.
- Termite treatments.
  - Many buyer are anxious about termite inspections. I like to point out that a houses already treated is a good thing. 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. You should always confirm the coverage of any warranty.
- Annual inspections.
  - This home is your most expensive investment, and it is important to maintain annual check ups. 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 to prevent that.

To know more about home inspections and guidance, Contact met today!

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

Community News • Enjoying New Jersey • May 14, 2025

It’s A Shore Thing In New Jersey

by Roslyn Sibilia

It’s a shore thing in New Jersey. The dog days of summer are here…no worries, because New Jersey as your back. Just don’t forget the sunscreen.

It’s no surprise that this time of year produces record temperatures and hot humid days. The perfect solution—New Jersey Beaches! Spend the day or just an evening by our shoreline and enjoy the ocean breeze and fun in the sun. There’s nothing like feeling the sand between your toes while enjoying a good book or the sound of crashing waves.

Each beach is managed by its town. There are different rules and restrictions for each. Also a daily fee may be required or you can buy an seasonal pass. Information can be found on each town’s web-site. Most towns offer on street parking, but some have additional areas with metered parking or offer lots where you can pay for the day. Be sure to check it out before heading towards the water.

As the summer season moves forward different beaches offer concerts, sporting events, movies at the beach or fireworks. The busy beach holidays are Memorial Day which marks the opening of the season, the 4th of July and Labor Day. The busy Labor Day weekend typically marks the end of the beach season, however the locals enjoy “local summer”.

If the beach is not your thing, there are so many restaurants, shopping opportunities and amusement parks, too. Don’t just take my word for it, here is a list that New Jersey Monthly put together of our best beaches you won’t want to miss. They are “Shore to Please”

20 Best Beaches in New Jersey

Just think…you could be minutes from your favorite beach and enjoy “local summer”. Let’s make that happen and contact me today!

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

Selling A Home • May 10, 2025

Preparing Your Home For Sale -What To Address

by Roslyn Sibilia

Preparing your home for sale can be a daunting task, but it’s an essential step in maximizing your sale price and profit while selling your home quickly.

Here are some important things to address to get your home sale ready:

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Stage your home:

Highlight your home’s best features by strategically placing furniture, adding to the 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

Buying a Home • April 4, 2025

Hitting The Home Run Of Homeownership

by Roslyn Sibilia

Hitting the home run of homeownership feels like hitting a home run in the game of baseball. There are steps to get to a grand slam, too.

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 don’t swing at opportunities and watch 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 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.

First Base:
- Consult with a loan advisor to be pre-qualified for loan. They will ask for your financial information, such as bank statements and employment verification with salary amount. Your credit will also be checked.
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.
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.
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 strategy is taking that first swing.

Contact me today to team up and head to your home purchase win!

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

Living In Your Home • March 18, 2025

March Home Maintenance To Protect Your Home

by Roslyn Sibilia

Your home is made of many parts that need to be maintained. The weather from each season can add wear and tear on each of your home’s components. As we head into March, it’s a good time for home maintenance, as home maintenance helps to protect your home. Thus, it is important to protect the exterior as a shield for the interior of the home. Nonetheless, what good is renovating just the inside of your home if a roof leak can destroy it? When your home is maintained, not only do the systems last longer but it gives you peace of mind.

Although the weather is still cool, here are are few items you might want to address before spring is here. Moreover, it makes the chore more tolerable as to doing them while baking in the heat of summer.

Exterior Maintenance:

Clear out gutters and downspouts: Look for clogs that could cause water to damage your home.
Check your roof for damage: Look for missing or cracked shingles.
Inspect windows and doors: Check for drafts and seal with weather stripping.
Check outdoor faucets and hoses: Check for cracks or leaks.
Prepare your lawn and garden: Clean up debris.
Clean and maintain your grill: Clean built up debris on your grill.
Monitor your sump pump: Always test your pump to make sure it will work when needed.

Interior Maintenance:

Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors: Click the link for New Jersey’s updated codes. Check with your town, too.
Service your HVAC system: Service your systems and change filters.
Organize and clean your garage: Clean your garage before the hot weather is here.

Although some of the above may not apply to you, the ones that do are an important part of your March monthly home maintenance. Protect your investment and it will protect you.

For more home tips, check back every Tuesday!

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

Community News • Enjoying New Jersey • February 28, 2025

St. Patrick’s Day Parades in Monmouth County Copy

by Roslyn Sibilia

Friday Faves and St. Patrick's Day Parades

Get your shamrock hat on and get ready to paint the town green for St Patrick’s Day parades in Monouth County.

St. Patrick’s Day is right around the corner and Monmouth County will be painted green with all the festivities to enjoy. There are activtives and fun for all ages and it’s a graet way to feel a sense of community when looking for a home in Mounmouth County.

If you are seeking places to enjoy with your fellow Leprechauns, I have a list for you. Don’t depend on luck to make your plans. Check out the St. Patrick’s Day parades below. You don’t want to miss out. If you

If you are looking to move to or within Monmouth County, you’re in luck! Contact me today to get you started.

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

Click on the links below and join in the fun for St. Patrick’s Day

March 5th @ 12:30PM…Belmar

March 12th @ 1PM…Asbury Park

March 12th @ 1PM...Rumson

March 12th @ 11:30AM…Freehold Boro

March 18th @ 2PM…Highlands

March 25th @5PM...Keyport

Community News • Enjoying New Jersey • February 28, 2025

Friday Faves and St. Patrick’s Day Parades

by Roslyn Sibilia

It’s time for Friday Faves and St. Patrick’s Day parades.

As we end February and head into March it’s get your shamrock on and paint the town green in Monmouth County. St. Patrick’s Day is right around the corner and there is no lack of traditional festivities in Monmouth County. There is fun for all ages.

Here’s a list of where path to the pot of gold will lead you…

What a great way to experience sense of community when looking for a home in Monmouth County. If you are seeking places to enjoy with your fellow Leprechauns, I have a list for you. Don’t depend on luck to make your plans. Check out the St. Patrick’s Day parades below. You don’t want to miss out.

Looking to make a move to or within Monmouth County, you’re in luck! You don’t need the pot of gold to find that perfect home, Just contact me today!

🏠Roslyn Sibilia / 📞732-995-5609
💻RSibilia@ERAcentral.com
💻 NJHomesbyRoslyn.com

Home Tips • Living In Your Home • January 21, 2025

Melting Snow Can Cause Damage To Your Home

by Roslyn Sibilia

Melting snow can cause damage to your home. After the storm is over, the work begins. Although the sun begins to shine afterwards and all looks calm, this is the time to check in on the exterior of your home to prevent any damage from melting snow. You may think it’s just water, however it can cause issues. In the event of a storm that can take days to melt, the damage to homes can start quickly.

Here are a few home protection tips.

Exterior:

Your roof is the first protection and umbrella to your home.
- Snow will remain as temperatures dip and rise throughout the day. Snow dams begin to form preventing the water runoff. Water sitting on your roof is not good for an extended period of time. Icicles hanging around the roofs edge could be a sign of snow dams. A roof rake comes in handy for this. You should gently brush away the snow from the edge allowing the water to run off properly.
Gutters, leaders and downspouts play a huge role in water runoff from the roof.
- It is important that you check your gutters to make sure they are not clogged with debris or frozen ice. The water should be able to drain properly away from the home. Also, if your gutters are clogged and water is dripping onto your walkway below, this can be dangerous and cause injury.
You should throw snow away from your home when shoveling.
- You do not want any snow and water build up around the foundation of your home. Keep the area around your foundation as clear as possible.

Interior:

Sump pumps relieve basements of any ground water pushing against the foundation.
- You should always make sure the pump is working property before the water level rises in the sump. Also, the water is pumped out to the exterior of the foundation. This pipe is exposed to cold temperatures and should be checked to make sure it is not frozen. This could cause a backflow and flooding. Whether your basement is finished or not, who wants to deal with a flood?
Water shut off valves need to be check for each pipe or main to the house.
- Pipes that run along the exterior of the home can freeze during an event of continuous freezing weather.

While living in your home, there are many other home saving tips to keep in mind . I am available to discuss references should you need any to address issues.

If you are looking to get your home ready for sale, contact me at 732-995-5609 / NJHomesbyRoslyn.com

Living In Your Home • January 9, 2025

Homeowner’s Insurance Premiums and Renovations

by Roslyn Sibilia

How Renovations Cause Rises and Declines in Homeowners Insurance,

Homeowner’s insurance premiums and renovations are related. A homeowner’s insurance premium is the regular payment made to an insurance company to maintain coverage for a home and its contents. Factors such as the home’s value, location, potential dangers affect this cost. Other factors that affect the cost are the coverage limits, which is the maximum amount the company is willing to pay you for a claim. Any discounts or additional coverage options applied could also cause an increase or decrease to the cost.

Nonetheless, understanding your homeowner’s insurance premium is important to make sure that you have the right coverage for your property while managing your overall insurance costs effectively.

If you are planning on renovating your home, it would be wise to research if the renovations will increase or decease your insurance. Here are some examples of how these renovation can affect your premium.

Renovations or Additions That Can Increase Premiums:

Swimming Pools – Adding a pool increases liability risks, often raising premiums.
Home Additions – Expanding your home increases its replacement cost resulting in higher premiums.
High-End Upgrades – Installing luxury materials or appliances may require increased coverage for replacement value.
Finished Basement – While adding more interior space to occupy in the home, basements are more likely to be exposed to water damage, increasing premiums.
Home Offices – Upgrading for a business use may require special coverage, adding to costs.

Renovations or Additions That Can Decrease Premiums:

Security Systems – Installing monitored alarms, cameras, or smart locks can reduce premiums by lowering the risk of theft.
Fire-Resistant Materials – Replacing roofing or siding with fire-resistant materials can result in discounts.
Impact-Resistant Windows – Upgrading to storm proof windows may lower premiums, especially in storm-prone areas.
Electrical Updates – Replacing old wiring reduces the risk of electrical fires, often leading to lower rates.
Plumbing Upgrades – Modernizing pipes can decrease premiums by reducing the risk of leaks or water damage.

Looking for more homeowner tips? Check back weekly or contact me and let’s chat! Mobile: 732-995-5609 / NJHomesbyRoslyn.com

Living In Your Home • January 9, 2025

January Maintenance Checklist: A Good Start For Your Home

by Roslyn Sibilia

January is the perfect time to hit reset—not just on personal goals but also on your home’s upkeep. The colder months can be hard on your property, so a little proactive maintenance can go a long way in preventing costly repairs and ensuring your home stays comfortable and efficient.

From checking HVAC filters to inspecting for drafts, a few simple tasks can make a big difference. Whether you’re protecting your pipes from freezing temperatures or organizing post-holiday clutter, this month’s checklist will help you keep your home safe, warm, and running smoothly.

Read on for a detailed breakdown of essential indoor and outdoor tasks to tackle this January and tips to set your home up for success all year long!

Indoor Maintenance

Inspect HVAC Filters
- Check and replace furnace or HVAC filters to ensure efficient operation during the cold months.
Check for Drafts
- Inspect doors and windows for air leaks and reseal or use draft stoppers if necessary.
Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors NJ State Smoke Detector Requirements
- Replace batteries and test devices for proper functionality.
Clean and Inspect Your Fireplace
- If you use a wood-burning fireplace, clean the ashes and check for creosote buildup.
Organize Holiday Decorations
- Store decorations in labeled containers for easy access next year.
Inspect Plumbing for Leaks
- Look under sinks and around fixtures for any signs of water damage or drips.
Declutter Key Areas
- Start the year fresh by organizing closets, cabinets, and other storage areas.

Outdoor Maintenance

Check for Ice Dams
- Inspect your roof for ice buildup and remove snow as needed to prevent damage.
Inspect Gutters and Downspouts
- Clear any remaining leaves or debris to prevent ice blockages.
Examine Outdoor Lighting
- Replace any burnt-out bulbs and ensure pathways are well-lit during the darker winter months.
Protect Outdoor Faucets
- Confirm hoses are disconnected and faucets are insulated to avoid freezing pipes.
Check Trees and Shrubs
- Trim any branches near your house that could break under snow weight.

Seasonal Prep

Stock Up on Ice Melt and Sand
- Keep your driveway and walkways safe from slips and falls.
Inspect Winter Tools
- Ensure snow shovels and snow blowers are in good working condition.
Create an Emergency Kit
- Include items like flashlights, batteries, blankets, water, and non-perishable food in case of a power outage

Check back here for more home tips to protect your investment. If you are looking for home selling tips, contact me at 7632-995-5609/ RSibilia@ERAcentral.com

Termites Want To Feast On Your Home

It’s A Shore Thing In New Jersey

Preparing Your Home For Sale -What To Address

Hitting The Home Run Of Homeownership

March Home Maintenance To Protect Your Home

St. Patrick’s Day Parades in Monmouth County Copy

Friday Faves and St. Patrick’s Day Parades

Melting Snow Can Cause Damage To Your Home

Homeowner’s Insurance Premiums and Renovations

Renovations or Additions That Can Increase Premiums:

Renovations or Additions That Can Decrease Premiums:

January Maintenance Checklist: A Good Start For Your Home

Indoor Maintenance

Outdoor Maintenance

Seasonal Prep

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Indoor Maintenance

Outdoor Maintenance

Seasonal Prep

Renovations or Additions That Can Increase Premiums: