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

Head to parades for St. Patrick's Day

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

Community News • Enjoying New Jersey • October 4, 2024

It’s Apple Picking Season in the Garden State.

by Roslyn Sibilia

It’s Apple Picking Season in the Garden State…NJ Welcomes Fall.

New Jersey is home to many orchards to where you can enjoy a beautiful fall day. What is better than the taste of a newly picked crisp Macintosh or Granny Smith apple? Or the aroma of a freshly backed hot apple pie and apple cider?

If you are looking for some things to do this fall season, check out the many orchards of Northern, Central & Southern New Jersey by NJ Leisure Guide .

If you feel like “picking” a new home in New Jersey, I’ve got you covered. Just contact me at 732-995-5609 or go to NJHomesbyRoslyn.com

Northern NJ Apple Picking Farms

Alstede Farms / 84 Route 513 (Old Route 24), Chester, New Jersey
- Pick apples while enjoying scenic hay wagon rides to pumpkin patch and corn mazes.
Demarest Farms / 244 Wierimus Road, Hillsdale, NJ 07642 https://demarestfarms.com/
- In addition to apple picking, they offer pre picked produce, a gift shop, snacks and a refreshment stand, rest rooms, picnic area, face painting, birthday parties, and school tours.
Hillview Farms / 223 Meyersville Road, Gillette, NJ https://hillview-farms.com/
- A family owned and operated 53-acre farm. They offer a tractor ride to and from the apple orchard.
Mackey’s Orchards / 284 Route 519, Belvidere, NJ http://www.mackeysorchard.com/
- Varieties of apples to pick include Macintosh, Red Delicious, Golden Delicious, Winesap, Granny Smith, Ida Red, Cortland, and dozens more
Melick’s Orchards / 472 Route 513, Califon, NJ https://www.melickstownfarm.com/
- Pick your own Fuji, Honey Crisp and Gala apples as well as Asian pears.
Phillips Farms / 564 Millford-Warren Glen Road, Milford, NJ https://www.phillipsfarms.com/
- Pick apples and peaches along the scenic Delaware River in the rolling countryside of Holland Township.
Riamede Farm / 122 Oakdale Road, Chester, NJ https://www.riamedefarm.com/
- They have 34 varieties of apples ranging from traditional classics to heirloom specialties to modern favorites. Take a free hay wagon ride on weekends through the orchards out to the patch.
Ripple Hill Farm / 181 Mountain Rd, Basking Ridge, NJ https://www.ripplehillfarm.com/
- You can pick-your-own apples as well as buy from the farm stand. They offer fresh, picked-that-morning produce. Many varieties of apples found are Macintosh, Gala, Granny Smith and Winesaps.
Stony Hill Farm Market & Gardens / 15 North Road 8 Route 24, Chester, NJ https://stonyhillfarms.com/
- They offer apple picking, a Maze Fun Park and lots of activities.
Sun High Orchard / 19 Canfield Avenue, Randolph, NJ https://www.facebook.com/sunhighorchardnj/
- Enjoy the “Kiddie Corn Pit Play Area” – a giant corn filled sand box. Other activities include a Rope Maze, Tile Maze, Pipe Maze, and a Kiddie Hay Maze. Their friendly alpaca “Jersey Gold” and mini donkey “Jessica” are always looking to make new friends.
Tree-Licious Orchards / 135 Karrville Road, Port Murray, NJ https://treeliciousorchards.com/
- Featuring over 130 acres of fresh fruits, pumpkin picking, berry picking, apple picking, peach picking. You can schedule private tours, corporate events, have farm wedding, enjoy farm to table dinners and fun for the whole family.
Valley Crest Farm & Preserve / 14 Allerton Road, Lebanon, NJ https://www.visitnjfarms.org/Valley_Crest_Farm___Nature_Preserve/
- They offer a variety of apples including Ginger Gold, three types of Gala, McIntosh, Macoun, Pink Lady, Cameo, Honey crisp, Granny Smith and more.
Wrightman’s Farms / 1111 Mt. Kemble Avenue, Morristown, NJ http://www.wightmanfarms.com/index.html

Central NJ Apple Picking Farms

Battleview Orchards / 91 Wemrock Rd, Freehold, NJ https://www.battlevieworchards.com/
- Pick your own family farm with a country store and excellent bake goods. A favorite in Manalapan Township.
Bonacorsi Family Farm / 1137 Croton Road, Flemington, NJ http://www.bonacorsifamilyfarm.com/
- They offer over 60 varieties of apples. Please visit their website to confirm fall apple picking dates.
Eastmont Orchards / 321 County Road 537, Colts Neck, NJ http://eastmontorchards.com/
- They offer a variety of all apple types: Honeycrisp, McIntosh, Cortland, Crispin, Empire, Golden Delicious, Idared, Jonathan, McCoun, Red Delicious, Spartan, Arkansas Black, Braeburn, Fuji, Granny Smith, Red Rome, Stayman Winesap and Yellow Newtown Pippen
Giamarese Farm / 155 Fresh Ponds Road, East Brunswick, NJ http://www.giamaresefarm.com/
- Open early July to September, you can pick your own apples, nectarines and peaches.
Lee Turkey Farm / 201 Hickory Corner Rd., East Windsor, NJ https://leeturkeyfarm.com/
- Located on 54 acres nestled in the farms of suburbia, they offer hundreds of fruit trees and acres of vegetables all yours for the picking. Pumpkin picking is available, too.
Terhune Orchards / 13 Van Kirk Road, Princeton, NJ https://www.terhuneorchards.com/
- First Pick-Your-Own Apples and then enjoy pony rides, wagon rides, visit the Corn Stalk Maze, the Barn of Legends and Lore, and their barnyard of farm animals. They offer a lunch menu, too, such as soup, chili, hot dogs, pies, apple cider donuts, apple cider, and more!
Von Thun’s Country Farm Market / 519 Ridge Road, Monmouth Junction, NJ https://vonthunfarms.com/
- A family owned farm offering U-pick Strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, apples, and pumpkins.

Southern NJ Apple Picking Farms

Haynicz’s Orchardview Farm / corner of Buck and Elk road (Rt 553 and Rt 538), Monroeville, New Jersey https://www.facebook.com/Hayniczs-Orchardview-Farm-Market-and-Greenhouse-197438020269238/
- They have pick your own strawberries, peaches, apples, collards and pumpkins in season.
Hill Creek Farms / 1631 Route 45, Mullica Hill, NJ
- They grow three varieties on dwarfing rootstock including; Cameo, Jonagold, and The Autumn Rose Fuji apples. Enjoy a snack at the refreshment stand, picnic area while having your face painted. Pony rides are offered, too.
Johnson’s Corner Farm / 133 Church Rd., Medford, NJ https://www.johnsonsfarm.com/?utm_source=GMB
- Offers pick your own apples, peaches and pumpkin picking. After visiting their Animal Farm, other attractions include their pipe slide, wacky bridge, rope maze, balance beam, and tire climb!
Mood’s Farm Market / 901 Bridgeton Pike (Route 77), Mullica Hill, NJ https://www.moodsfarmmarket.com/
- Apple Festivals can be enjoyed here.
Strawberry Hill Farm / Corner of Waln & Ellisdale Road, Chesterfield, NJ https://strawberryhillfarm.org/
- Golden Delicious, Gala, Empire, and Macintosh apples available

Community News • Enjoying New Jersey • October 1, 2024

Carve Out Time For Halloween Haunted Happenings.

by Roslyn Sibilia

Carve out time for Halloween haunted happenings. There are lots of things to do in Monmouth and Middlesex Counties.

October is when the autumn festivities begin and a favorite time of year. The changing colors, crisp night air and sweet smell of cinnamon fill the air.

Not only is it a time to enjoy a horror film, but it’s a great time to enjoy the outdoors.

Here are a list of places that will thrill you! Sometimes the weather is unpredictable. Remember to check the event info prior to going for any changes.

Monmouth County Events

Jersey Shore Ghost Tours: Held in Red Bank and Keyport, offering spooky guided tours.
Freehold Halloween Spooktacular: A long-standing tradition featuring community-driven activities like parades and contests.
Night of Frights at Allaire Village: An 1830’s Halloween celebration with storytelling and other activities.
C. Casola Farms Haunted Attractions: Located in Marlboro, featuring multiple haunted attractions, including a haunted hayride.
Brookdale Haunted Theater: A haunted house display experience created by students at Brookdale Community College.
Boo at Jenkinson’s Boardwalk: This family-friendly event includes crafts, face painting, trick-or-treating, and even underwater pumpkin carving(

Ocean County Events

Terror at Trailside: A haunted walkthrough experience with live actors, located in Waretown.
Argos Farm Fall Country Fun: Located in Forked River, featuring hayrides, mazes, and other family-friendly activities.
Cicconi Farms in Jackson: Offers a variety of Halloween-themed attractions such as pumpkin picking, hayrides, and haunted trails

These events events can be enjoyed by all. From easy and safe viewing to terrifying haunted attractions, there’s something for everyone this Halloween season!

Selling A Home • May 17, 2024

Your Poets Corner Realtor Guides You To Home Sale Success—Click Link Below To Hear A Special Message

by Roslyn Sibilia

Click To Hear A Message From Your Poets Corner Realtor

Living In Poets Corner

Once a homeowner in Poets Corner, I love to share what this development has to offer to new homebuyers. Not only had I been interviewed in 2022 by the major NY newspaper to know it is like to live in Freehold Township, but I love to share that with buyers. Why have buyers read about it…I live here I work here and raised my family here! Let me tell our town story. As a current resident of Freehold Township, firsthand knowledge is the key.

Over the years, I am honored to have guided Poets Corner home sellers to home sale success since 2003 and through ever-changing markets. As your local expert, you will be fully represented. Communication is instrumental and I can offer information that is hard to translate in writing or read on line. I am not just about selling homes, but strive to be a continued resource for all your real estate needs. Whether you are looking to relocate, need references or are in need of an opinion regarding as home situation, just ask me. I am happy to help.

Experience Is Key

From the location of Poets Corner in East Freehold to the being part of Monmouth County, residing in this centrally located town provides so much. Everything is nearby and I can’t think of another town that offers what we have, whether heading north, south, to the east or west. The FRHSD offers programs that many do not know about. I am able to relay the great opportunity the Magnet Programs provided can offer, as my children have attending them.

Setting You Up For Success

Every time I step into a home in Poets Corner for a home sale consultation, I am excited to share what everyone loves about this development. Knowing and working with Towne and Country, as well as the Freehold Township Construction Department, I will set you up for success. Let’s chat. I would love an opportunity to discuss any questions or concerns you may have. Consider me a neighbor who would love to help!

I look forward to meeting you!

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

Buying a Home • October 10, 2023

Schools Are A Crucial Part Of The Homebuying Process

by Roslyn Sibilia

Researching schools is part of the homebuying process.

Schools are a crucial part of the homebuying process.

When looking for homes to buy, it might be important to you to check out the schools, too. Today, in addition to school reports, there are other ways you can find out additional and current information. Nowadays most schools and districts have websites where you can find so much information.

One important aspect is the school’s academic reputation, including the quality of its teachers and curriculum. It’s also important to look at the school’s after school activities and programs, such as sports, music, and clubs. The school’s location may be important with regards to how far it is away from the home. Additionally, it’s helpful to look into the school’s safety record and any special programs or resources available for students with specific needs.

Overall, taking the time to thoroughly research a school can help ensure that you make the best decision for your child’s education and help you decide on a neighborhood home.

In essence, checking out schools should be an important part of the home buying research. This makes sure that your home choice is good for both your immediate needs and long-term goals.

Here are some websites that may help in your search for information.

Middlesex County Elementary School Districts

Monmouth County Elementary School Districts

Ocean County Elementary School Districts

Community News • Living In Your Home • September 19, 2023

Freehold Township Bulk Collection Schedule

by Roslyn Sibilia

Freehold Township Bulk Collection is starting in our neighborhoods. Once our streets are cleared, they will not be returning. This is a great time to organize and to get rid of all the clutter to make more space in your home. If you need more space at home, I can assist you with finding the perfect one.

Bulk Collection Criteria

Items collected are household items, including sofas, chairs, tables, carpeting, dishwashers, washing machines, dryers, ovens, barbeque grills and toys.
The following items are excluded from pickup: items weighing over 200 pounds, leaves, rocks and stones, stumps, logs, brush, slate, concrete, motor vehicles or their components (batteries, tires, wheels, etc.), building materials, construction trash, metal pipe and barrels, recyclables or hazardous materials, appliances containing free-on (refrigerators, freezers, and air conditioners), electronics (such as televisions, stereos, computers, etc.)
Bulk collection is limited to 8 cubic yards and no larger than 8 feet in length and 8 inches in diameter.

2023 Bulk Collection Schedule

Sectors A, B and C – Week of September 25th
Sectors D, E and F – Week of October 10th

Residents need to show proof of residency to bring their items to the recycling center. The following ID is acceptable: driver’s license, tax or utility bill. Permitted drop-offs are limited to 6 per year. No vehicles larger than a pickup truck nor commercial vehicles will be permitted into the recycling center.

For additional recycling information call go to Freehold Township.

For information regarding finding a new home, contact me today!

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

Living In Your Home • Selling A Home • September 9, 2023

September Home Maintenance Tips

by Roslyn Sibilia

September home maintenance tips can help you prepare for the upcoming fall season. You should work on addressing this list so that you are able to maintain your home.

Here’s a checklist for September home maintenance:

Check The Roof:

Clean Gutters and Downspouts: Remove leaves from gutters and downspouts. Cleaning them prevents clogs and water damage during fall rains
Inspect and Repair Roof: Check for any damaged or missing shingles and address any necessary roof repairs. This will prevent leaks and protect the inside of your home.

Have An Energy Saving Home:

Seal Gaps and Cracks: Inspect your home’s exterior, windows, and doors for openings. Filling these in not only prevents drafts but this prevents heat loss, too.
Service Heating System: Schedule a professional inspection of your heating system. Make sure it’s in good condition for the upcoming cooler months.
Replace HVAC Filters: Clean or replace HVAC system filters. This will improve indoor air quality and make sure the system works properly. You can purchase filters to assist those who have allergies, too.
Inspect and Clean Fireplace/Chimney: Fireplaces should be inspected and cleaned by a professional before use in the fall to prevent fires.
Weatherproof Doors and Windows: Check and replace weather stripping around doors and windows to prevent heat loss in the house.
Inspect Insulation: Check that your attic insulation is in good condition. This will help to keep your home warm during the colder months.

General Tasks To Do:

Fall Yard Cleanup: Trim trees and bushes, rake leaves, and prepare your garden for winter. This will prepare your yard for the spring. Now would be the time to plant spring bulbs. Check the fall clean up schedule for your town.
Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Test and replace batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they are working correctly. Also check your fire extinguisher did not expire.

These are essential tasks to get your home ready for the changing season, but remember to consider your specific needs and local temperatures when creating your September home maintenance checklist.

For more information on home tips or how to prepare your home for sale, contact me today!

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

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

It’s Apple Picking Season in the Garden State.

Carve Out Time For Halloween Haunted Happenings.

Monmouth County Events

Ocean County Events

Your Poets Corner Realtor Guides You To Home Sale Success—Click Link Below To Hear A Special Message

Schools Are A Crucial Part Of The Homebuying Process

Freehold Township Bulk Collection Schedule

September Home Maintenance Tips

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