No Coffee Breaks for These ‘Doormen’

Sunday, November 22, 2009

By ANTOINETTE MARTIN

 DOORMEN have always been rarer in New Jersey than in Manhattan, appearing only at the largest and fanciest condominiums along the Hudson River. Now, some can be found at smaller buildings too — but only in “virtual” guise.

     Hoboken recently got its first virtual doorman service, at the 16-unit Vesta, which opened on Observer Highway in September.

     “Personally, I think this is better, more convenient and safer than a real doorman,” said Philip Marrone, who moved into his two-bedroom unit at the Vesta last month, after renting for a couple of years at Maxwell Place, which has full-time in-the-flesh concierge service.

     Mr. Marrone said he pays far less in monthly maintenance fees to cover the cost of the virtual concierge. It accepts his girlfriend’s packages — “she’s a big online shopper,” he says — along with dry-cleaning deliveries and grocery orders from freshdirect.com. And it never leaves the security door uncovered for even a momentary break.

     The Video Doorman system at Vesta costs only about $1 a day per unit to operate, according to Larry Dolin, the president of American Security Systems, which produced the system and installed it.

     At the 22-unit m650 Flats in Jersey City, another “boutique condo” building that opened this year, Anthony G. Carrino — whose company was the builder and who is a resident himself — said its system, called Virtual Doorman, costs $1,400 a month for the building, which works out to about $2 a day per unit.

     Colin Foster, a vice president for sales at Virtual Doorman, based in Manhattan, agreed with his competitor, Mr. Dolin, that hiring doormen for three shifts per day would cost around $150,000 a year. Mr. Dolin is promoting his company’s system as costing only a tenth as much.

     The system at m650 has a “key safe” — by which residents can be buzzed in if they misplace their keys — and the one at the Vesta has cold storage (a big refrigerator) in the package room. But aside from those differences and a few others, both essentially operate like this:

     Video cameras, constantly monitored by live operators at a remote location, are mounted outside the building, in the lobby, in the package room and in the passageways leading to it.

     A resident uses a specialized key fob to enter the building and can choose whether to interact with the video doorman by speaker, via a panel on the wall.

     Mr. Marrone said he had never spoken to his doorman and did not intend to. “I’m not interested in saying hello every day to someone I don’t know,” he said.

     Those more inclined to talk say that the doorman may be a woman, and that in Vesta’s case she is based in Staten Island.

     When a delivery person arrives, he or she pushes a button on a panel mounted on the building exterior to speak with the cyberdoorman, who buzzes the person in and gives directions to the locked package room. By means of the camera, the doorman watches the person throughout the process of reaching the package room, being buzzed into it, making the delivery and exiting the building.

     If the delivery person were to take something or make a suspicious move, the operator would summon the police. They would have a DVD record to consult.

     “This provides higher security than a doorman would in many cases,” said Marsha LaTessa, a partner in the Vesta Group, the developer of the building. Certainly, the physical presence of a doorman can be formidable as a crime deterrent, Ms. LaTessa conceded. Also, a doorman who opens the door and helps carry in packages is an obvious asset.

     But most newer buildings along the riverfront have “concierges,” individuals standing behind desks who coordinate social activities without providing traditional door service.

     Mr. Marrone, who once worked as a concierge in Boston, said he had often seen situations at buildings where the doorman “ducks out to the bathroom for a few minutes, and anybody really could just slip by, because the door is open.”

     The front door is always locked at virtual-doorman buildings, which first showed up in Manhattan around 2000 and have proliferated in the weak economy.

     Mr. Carrino, the m650 Flats builder, said he first saw the system demonstrated at a building trades show in Manhattan about four years ago, and decided it could help make m650 stand out from the crowd of condos with gyms, lounges and other amenities then going up in Jersey City.

     Mr. Foster said his company had just installed Video Doorman in Edgewater, at the new Aventine Above the Hudson, a 34-unit glass-walled structure with three-bedroom penthouses for $1.495 million.

     Despite Mr. Marrone’s decision never to address any of his remote doormen, “I would go so far as to say I love my Virtual Doorman, even though that is a rather strange way to put it under the circumstances, I guess.”

 

Greenbriar Stonebridge, an active adult community in Monroe Township, NJ

FREEHOLD, NJ — Last weekend’s “Real Deal” event did not disappoint as buyers took advantage of considerable incentives to purchase more than a dozen homes at Lennar’s award-winning communities located throughout New Jersey.

The aggressive program drew crowds of excited buyers to the various Welcome Home Centers, many of whom were visiting the communities for the first time. With so much interest generated and a number of buyers understandably in need of a little extra time to consider their options, Lennar has decided to extend the “Real Deal” event through November 30th — the end of its fiscal year.

Once again, buyers will be able to enjoy extraordinary incentives of up to $80,000 depending on community, home type, location and delivery date.

“The ‘Real Deal’ event was designed to alleviate any uncertainties about buying a new home in today’s market, and it certainly accomplished that goal for a number of buyers who had already decided on living in one of our communities but had been on the fence about when to pull the trigger,” explains Don Bompensa, President of Lennar’s New Jersey Division.

“But it also created a tremendous amount of interest from buyers who were visiting our communities for the first time. Recognizing that they needed a little extra time before making a decision, we decided to extend the dramatic financial benefits of the program through the end of the month.”

At Greenbriar Oceanaire, Lennar’s celebrated active adult community in Waretown just north of Long Beach Island, buyers can enjoy savings from $50,000 to $80,000 on the community’s single-family homes which are priced from the $300s. Residents enjoy a resort-like atmosphere stemming from an 18-hole private championship golf course and a 38,000-sq.-ft. clubhouse.

Greenbriar Stonebridge, another active adult community located in Monroe Township, is offering incentives worth $15,000 to $48,000 on its portfolio of homes which include single-family residences priced from the $300s and new duplex homes priced from the $200s. Greenbriar Stonebridge boasts a 41,000 square-foot clubhouse — the largest recreational facility in an active adult community in the state.

Active adult buyers looking for a northern New Jersey location can also experience the Greenbriar tradition with Greenbriar Fox Ridge, a new condominium community located in a scenic Rockaway Township setting. There, the three-day Real Deal Event amounts to up to $55,000 in incentives on homes that are priced from the $200s. Residents will also enjoy a 16,000 square-foot clubhouse which is now available for tours.

Buyers can take advantage of significant savings at Lennar’s non-age-restricted communities as well. At Centreplace at Edison, 198 garden-style condominium homes, prices have been reduced to start at just $278,958 during the Real Deal event. Qualified buyers can also utilize FHA financing which requires only a 3-1/2% down payment to purchase the loft-style two- and three-bedroom homes. The community also features exceptional amenities, including a magnificent clubhouse, an outdoor pool, a state-of-the-art fitness center and a tot lot.

In Atlantic County’s Mays Landing, savings from $40,000 to $75,000 will be offered at Cedar Point, 173 single-family homes on premium wooded homesites up to two acres located near the Hamilton Mall. The community’s four-bedroom residences are priced from the $300,000s – already the best value in Mays Landing.

And in Woolwich — just 30-40 minutes from Wilmington and Philadelphia — incentives of $7,500 to $15,000 will be offered at Creek Run, a charming community featuring single-family homes ranging from 2,070 to 3,719 square feet of living space, sprawling homesites from one-to-four-plus acres and pricing starting from just the upper-$200s. What’s more, a $10,000 price increase will go into effect December 1st, 2009.

For more information on Lennar’s November 13th-15th Real Deal Sales Event and its New Jersey portfolio of communities, visit www.lennar.com.

Lennar is the second largest homebuilder in the nation, delivering 49,000 homes in 2006. The corporation was recognized as Fortune Magazine’s “Most Admired Homebuilding Company in America” in 2003 and 2004.

###

4- & 5-Bedroom Residences With Individual Boat Slips Will Be Sold At Minimum Bids Up To 64% Below Original Prices

EATONTON, GA – The final 16 lakeside residences at the Peninsula, a 36-unit luxury townhome community in this pristine town on Lake Oconee, a popular resort area 90 minutes east of Atlanta, will be sold at a close-out auction on December 13th by Sheldon Good & Company (www.sheldongood.com).

Closeout pricing gives buyers the unique opportunity to own luxury residences, situated on Lake Oconee. Each townhome is assigned its own boat slip. Minimum bids are up to 64% below the original asking prices, which ranged as high as $739,000.

Seven homes are guaranteed to be sold subject to minimum bids from $250,000.

The seller selected Sheldon Good & Company based on its nation-wide track record of executing successful accelerated sales programs that effectively reinforce value for prospective buyers through competitive bidding. The auctions essentially cut months off of conventional marketing programs, resulting in considerable savings that are passed onto the buying public through discounted pricing.

The Peninsula’s open outcry auction will be held at the Renaissance Waverly Hotel, located at 2450 Galleria Parkway, Atlanta, GA. Registration begins at 11:00am with the auction commencing at noon.
Homes offered at the auction may be viewed on November 14th, 15th , 21st, 22nd, 28th and 29th, and December 5th, 6th, and 12th, from 11am to 3pm.

“The one-day auction event will be a rare opportunity to acquire remarkable, well-appointed residences in a breathtaking, resort location at significantly discounted prices, notes Craig Post, Director of Sales of Sheldon Good & Company.

“Lake Oconee is well-known for recreational boating and fishing and is close to premier golf courses. The property is also surrounded by beautiful landscaped grounds, a natural preserve with walking trails and is a pet-friendly environment. Thus, the remaining homes in this gated community should strongly attract buyers from Atlanta and its environs who seek a second-home purchase at value-laden prices.”

Buyers at the auction at The Peninsula on Lake Oconee choose from among three distinctive floor plans ranging in size from approximately 2,880 to 3,475 square feet. The three-story residences are notable for an array of custom-design features and resort-like community amenities.

“The Peninsula on Lake Oconee offers the finest in lakefront living,” points out Mr. Post.

“Interiors are distinguished by custom coffered ceilings and wainscot, stone surrounded fireplaces, nine-feet-high archways, wide plank oak floors, designer kitchens with stainless steel appliances, granite countertops and Mouser cabinets; and luxurious spa-inspired baths with chiseled Travertine stone. Residents also enjoy a custom, resort-style pool with cascading waterfall, heated spa, outdoor stone fireplace with grill, covered outdoor pavilion with entertainment area, and men’s and women’s showers and restrooms.”

For further information, visit www.sheldongood.com/peninsula.php, call Sheldon Good & Company’s auction hot line at 1 800-315-2199, or fax the company at (312) 453-7830.

About Sheldon Good & Company
Sheldon Good & Company (www.sheldongood.com) is the nation’s premier real estate auction firm. Founded in 1965, the organization is frequently acknowledged as the innovator and leader in real estate auctions by prestigious publications such as Forbes, Fortune, The Wall Street Journal and others. The firm has sold more than 40,000 properties in over 100 asset classes by leveraging its sophisticated accelerated marketing programs and superior real estate expertise. Owned by Racebrook Capital, a private equity firm in New York, Sheldon Good & Company has regional offices in New York, Chicago and San Francisco. Sheldon Good & Company has been rated the premier real estate auction company by a number of prestigious financial publications. The company has aggregate sales of over $10 billion.
###

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bungalow
Long Branch, NJ

Words: Catherine Martin
Photography: Joshua McHugh (unless otherwise stated)

The city of Long Branch, New Jersey has a new addition to its recently rejuvenated coastline in the form of Bungalow, a luxury lifestyle -hotel. The newbuild, created by Ironstate Holdings LLC, is located in Pier Village, a mixed-use dining, shopping and living destination just steps away from the endless beaches that inspired its style.

The four-storey, 24-room hotel, designed by architects Minno & Wasko, brings a contemporary edge to the beachside community. One of four buildings constructed in the second phase of the Pier Village development, the hotel is part of a citywide revitalisation.

The exterior of the building is clad in Bamco metal panels with stained cedar accents and large expanses of glazing to allow for ample daylight and views of the Atlantic.

Backlit signage is used to identify the hotel to passers-by on Ocean Boulevard, and LED lighting adds accent the rooftop parapets. The ultimate landmark for Bungalow is its sail canopy suspended 60ft above the entrance onto which movies, images, and lighting are projected.

The hotel interiors are the work of husband and wife duo Robert and Cortney Novogratz of Sixx Design who have hit headlines in the States recently thanks to a new TV series based on their ‘house flipping’. Sixx has made it their business to seek out abandoned buildings across Manhattan transforming them into multi-million dollar living spaces. Their new series, to be screened on Bravo! next year, will also feature the couple’s seven children, brought along to live in each of the homes they flip.

For their first non-residential project, Sixx Design has created playful and refreshing interiors in the 24 guestrooms and lounge area of Bungalow. In Robert’s words it is “a modern interpretation of an international surfing lodge” with a “unique mix of modern and one-of-a-kind vintage pieces.”

Upon arrival, guests are welcomed by a lounge and billiard room on the first floor, complete with a champagne bar and outdoor patio. Custom millwork features throughout including the built-in seating and low-key reception desk.

The lounge is an indoor-outdoor space with the focus on an eclectic mix of artwork and accessories against a white backdrop. “The materials we used are somewhat basic but the developer gave us a great budget for unique art, furniture, the amazing bar, library shelves and trees in the lobby,” explains Novogratz. The rustic woodwork pieces by John Houshman complement the mod-meets-beach hotel decor with contemporary accessories such as lamps from Moss and surf photos by Jeff Devine.

Above the 1940s pool table hangs a feathered chandelier and one of the fifty works of original art chosen specifically for Bungalow by Robert and Cortney. Building on their reputation for decorating spaces with rare collectables sourced from around the world, one of the most eye-catching is a 6ft mural of a stamp made entirely out of white buttons by artist Ann Carrington.

Sixx Design has also brought its trademark style to the individually styled guestrooms ranging from oversized king bedrooms to junior and corner suites. Guests can choose between Aloha, Hangloose, Lil Pipeline and more. All are light-filled spaces furnished with king-size beds, oversized bathtubs, flatscreen TVs, iPod docking stations, kitchenettes, window walls, and fireplaces.

Bungalow guests also have full access to a Le Club, a beach club complete with cabanas, a roof deck bar, lounge and pool.

As well as filming their TV series, Robert and Cortney Novogratz are currently working on a larger hotel in Long Branch, and another, located in Mexico.

Bungalow
50 Laird Street, Long Branch, New Jersey 07740, USA
Tel:+1 732 229 3700
Web: www.bungalowhotel.net

24 guestrooms Lounge, Champagne Bar Access to le Club Beach Club
Developer: Ironstate Holdings LLC Architect: Minno&Wasko Designers: Sixx Design

JERSEY CITY, N.J. – Positive signs indicating that a rebound in the housing market is underway and home prices are increasing are spurring buyers to act at Crystal Point where the iconic 42-story condominium building directly on the Hudson River in downtown Jersey City is reporting accelerated and strong buyer interest since September 1st.

A flurry of activity over the early fall has yielded more than fourty condominium homes sold at Crystal Point within the last eight weeks alone, according to Fisher Development Associates, which is developing the building a mere 25 feet from the banks of the Hudson River.

Much of the success is being directly attributed to the debut of the professionally-decorated model residences and continued construction progress at the magnificent building which enable visitors to get a true sense of the high quality, upscale interior finishes and unrivaled waterfront location with majestic views of the riverscape and New York City skyline. Also contributing are limited-time Grand Opening prices starting from the low-$500,000s which provide tremendous value and have created an unsurpassed buying opportunity.

“Our sales numbers have seen a dramatic rise during September and October as buyers have been allowed to tour our models, experience the building as it nears completion and see for themselves exactly what the buzz surrounding Crystal Point is all about,” says Brian Fisher, a principal of Fisher Development Associates. “Of course, the opportunity to purchase at grand opening prices before it’s too late is also spurring buyers to act now.”

Created by the renowned New York City architectural firm Gruzen Samton LLP, the distinctive design of the landmark Crystal Point building maximizes its unrivaled waterfront location and creates homes with modern, open and furnishable living areas.

“Unlike many high-rise developments which often seem cavernous with long hallways, we split the Crystal Point plan in half with elevators positioned in the middle of the residential floors to create short corridors and provide the building a very intimate feel,” says Jordan Gruzen (FAIA) of Gruzen Samton. “We utilized multiple façade planes to break the building‘s mass up and ensure that every home had magnificent views. Each condominium was designed so from the moment the front door of each home is opened one is aware of the views and the light emanating from the water.

“The layouts of the homes themselves often create large square rooms and sprawling living spaces that are open, airy and extremely functional.”

Crystal Point features a crystalline-style glass exterior and has been designed to maximize the building’s waterfront setting and views of the ever changing Manhattan skyline. Inside, one-, two-and three bedroom homes will range from 800 to 1,817 square-feet and offer an array of premium finishes. Residents will also benefit from free on-site parking.

“Features will include kitchens with Italian Pedini wood and glass cabinetry, sparkling quartzite counters, under-cabinet task lighting, full height pantries, islands with breakfast bars and a full Jenn-Air appliance suite,” points out Adrienne Albert, CEO of The Marketing Directors, Inc., Crystal Point’s marketing and exclusive sales agent.

“Floor-to-ceiling windows will drench the homes in natural light and many of the residences will offer river front balconies. Each residence will also have SMART home technology capabilities and a washer and dryer.”

Homes at Crystal Point are made even more attractive thanks to a 30-year tax abatement that has been granted to the building.

Crystal Point’s superb amenities include the Crystal Spa with a thermal bath, sauna, steam and treatment rooms. Residents will also enjoy a yoga/aerobics room, state-of-the-art fitness center, lounge with flat screen televisions, game room with billiard and poker tables, children’s play room and a screening room within the Crystal Club.

“An outdoor deck overlooking the Hudson River will feature a lap pool, hot tub, private cabanas and lounge chair seating, as well as a BBQ and dining area, fire pits and a children’s play area,” Ms. Albert says. “The building will also offer a professional concierge, valet parking and lobby level restaurant.”

Crystal Point is conveniently located between the Paulus Hook and Newport sections of Jersey City and steps from PATH trains at both Exchange Place and Newport with direct access into New York City and a Light Rail station.

For additional information on Crystal Point, please call 201-433-7778 or visit www.crystalpointcondos.com.

###

CLIFTON, N.J. – 140 Mayhill, the luxury rental community from Value Companies in Bergen County’s Saddle Brook Township, was recently honored during the New Jersey Apartment Association’s 2009 Garden State Awards program, which annually recognizes outstanding achievement in the field of rental properties.

The collection of 158 one-and two-bedroom rental homes was distinguished as “Best Managed Mid/High Rise Building Built After 2000 – Over 100 Units” by the organization of apartment owners, managers, builders, developers and those involved in allied industries. The Clifton, N.J.-based company received the honor during a glittering awards ceremony recently held at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in New Brunswick.

“We’re thrilled to receive this award from our industry peers,” notes Jack Linefsky, Director of Operations at Value Companies. “It is a fitting tribute to the superb team of professionals we assembled and have on staff to develop, lease, manage and maintain this special rental community.”

Since opening its leasing program, 140 Mayhill enjoyed a level of success that belies the current state of the rental market. Just nine months after its debut, an impressive 100% of the community’s homes have been leased under the direction of The Marketing Directors, Inc., the marketing and exclusive leasing agent for 140 Mayhill. The success of 140 Mayhill is directly linked to its large selection of well-appointed interior layouts, competitive monthly rates starting in the $1,500s, desirable suburban location eight miles from Manhattan and a close-knit, activity-rich lifestyle.

Highlighting 140 Mayhill’s well-rounded living environment is the community’s professionally-furnished clubroom which was merchandised by prominent interior design firm Lita Dirks & Co. and includes a catering kitchen for private events and social gatherings, large flat-screen television, Ipod docking stations and ample room for entertaining. There’s also a fully-equipped fitness center which features top-of-the-line fitness machines and free weights, flat-screen TVs and a mirrored stretching room.

Luxurious rental homes at 140 Mayhill range in size from 753 square-feet to 1,300 square-feet. Homes come complete with a host of designer features and appointments, including soaring nine-to-11-foot ceilings, elegant three-inch plank hardwood floors, gorgeous French doors leading to the homes’ private balconies, Bosch washers and dryers, spacious walk-in closets with custom-designed shelving, and gourmet kitchens with full GE stainless steel appliance packages, exquisite oak cabinetry, granite kitchen countertops, designer lighting fixtures and designer blinds.

Residents also benefit from 24-hour on-site maintenance service and reserved garage parking adjacent to the building.

An added advantage of 140 Mayhill is its location near major highways and transportation outlets which whisk commuters into Manhattan and the entertainment and business centers of northern New Jersey. The neighborhood is just minutes from the Garden State Parkway, Route 80 and highways 46, 4 and 17.

140 Mayhill is a continuation of Value Companies’ proven track record of building and maintaining the finest rental communities in northern New Jersey. Also in Saddle Brook are Ten Sampson, a new 38-residence building and the 368-residence Saddle Brook Apartments, both of which have consistently enjoyed near 100 percent occupancy and are owned and managed by affiliates of Value Companies.

For more information or to schedule a private presentation of 140 Mayhill and its furnished model residences, please call 201-556-0140 or visit www.140mayhill.com. The 140 Mayhill leasing office is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
About Value Companies

Founded in 1952, Value Companies is a leading real estate development, investment and management company headquartered in Clifton, N. J. The company currently boasts a portfolio exceeding 3,600 residential units located throughout New Jersey, Pennsylvania, New York, Texas and Florida. From suburban master-planned communities to urban infill redevelopment, Value Companies has embarked on $100 million in new development initiatives across the luxury rental, condominium and urban mixed-use sectors.

For more information, please contact Value Companies’ headquarters at 973-473-2800 or visit www.valuecompanies.com.
# # #

LOPATCONG, N.J. –- Construction is now underway on the final five condominium buildings at Warren Heights, the residential community being developed by Larken Associates in Warren County’s Lopatcong Township.

The announcement signifies the compete build-out of the community’s 352 one-and two-bedroom condominiums and 62 townhomes is nearing its end, leaving just a limited number of residences available for sale. The condominium homes are expected to be completed in early spring, 2010.

“Warren Heights has long been a popular residential destination for buyers ranging from young couples to empty-nesters and that continues today,” says Marilyn Cornelia, Larken’s Director of Sales and Marketing. “Even as we enter the final stages of our development and sales program, some of the best housing opportunities remain.

“For example, the condominiums now being offered in our “Best Buys” program have strong appeal to first-time buyers who can take advantage of the federal $8,000 tax credit by closing on their home by November 30th.”

Homes available in the “Best Buys” program provide incredible value and great savings by offering condominiums situated in prime locations and loaded with designer upgrades at special pricing. Purchasers of homes highlighted in the program must have the ability to close on their new residence at Warren Heights within 60 days.

“We also have several homes available with a rent-to-own option,” Ms. Cornelia points out. “By taking a significant portion of the monthly rent and applying towards the purchase price at the end of their rental agreement, this program is providing another avenue for many to achieve the ‘American Dream’ of homeownership.”

Elegant condominiums at Warren Heights are value-priced from just $169,990 for purchase on specific models and available for rent for $1,125 on a one-bedroom condominium to $1,400 for a two-story, two-bedroom home. There are a limited number of fully-furnished condominium homes complete with designer furniture and stylish fixtures now available for lease at Warren Heights.

The residences – which require a minimum one-year lease – are also being offered with an added bonus. Renters who sign a two-year lease will be able to keep all of the fashionable furniture included in the home when the lease term expires. The rent for a furnished one bedroom residence starts at $1,350 a month. In addition, there are a select number of furnished duplex condominiums ranging from 1,600 to 1,800 square feet available for $1,850 per month.

Warren Heights boasts one-bedroom condominium homes with bonus rooms or two-bedroom residences with gourmet kitchens, formal living and dining rooms and master bedrooms offering master bathroom suites, a walk-in closet and attached sitting room.

“There’s also standard California Closets in the master bedrooms in all one-bedroom homes and bonus electric fireplaces in all homes,” Ms. Cornelia says, “and all condominium residences include an additional private basement storage area in the purchase price.”
Warren Heights state-of-the-art amenity package includes a clubhouse, two fitness centers, a magnificent outdoor pool, health club, basketball courts, a children’s tot lot, walking and biking trails, a gazebo, putting green, dog run and garden plots.

There’s also everyday necessities such as upscale eateries, retail outlets and professional offices adjacent to the community at Stryker’s Crossing and Stryker’s Plaza — a shopping center and medical and professional building developed in conjunction with Warren Heights.
A 2,128 square-foot Italian restaurant is now available for lease at Stryker’s Crossing, as well as two other retail units. The units can also be built to suit. The complex currently features an Edward Jones Investment, MC Consulting, CC Nail Place, Inc., Warren Hospital, Prestigious Dry Cleaners and Laundry, Wild Tans, The #1 China Restaurant, Sign Expressions, Skylands Community Bank, and UPS Store. A Busy Bee Child-Care center and Village Medical — a full-service medical facility — are located at Stryker’s Plaza.

First-time homebuyers and former renters are pleased to discover financing is available at Warren Heights in Lopatcong Township through secured loan programs offered by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) that open the door to homeownership.
The neighborhood qualifies for the guaranteed rural housing loan program offered by USDA Rural Development which features 100% financing and requires little or no down payment for qualified buyers. To be eligible for a USDA guaranteed home loan, prospects must meet statutory income limits. Loans are processed locally through Warren Heights’ preferred mortgage lender.

Situated within the renowned Skylands region, Warren Heights is minutes from the many outdoor recreational activities that make living in northwest New Jersey so special. Highlighting the area’s many outdoor facilities is the 70,000-acre Delaware Water Gap where a myriad of activities — ranging from hiking, river adventures and camping to live jazz concerts, museums and historic tours — are available.

Warren Heights’ commuter-friendly location makes traveling a breeze. The neighborhood is minutes from major highways including Routes 287, 22 and 46 and Interstates 78 and 80 which whisk commuters into northern and central New Jersey.

For additional information on Warren Heights, please call (908) 387-0700 or visit www.larkenassociates.com. The Warren Heights’ sales office is open from Monday to Friday from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday to Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. To visit: Take Route 78 West to Exit 3. Proceed 2 mile to third traffic light and turn right onto Route 519. Go approximately 1-1/2 miles to traffic light and turn left onto Route 57. Proceed approximately one mile and turn right onto Stryker Lane. Warren Heights is on your left, follow signs to the sales office.

###

Single-Family Homes at The Reserve at Canal Walk

Strong Sales In Reserve And Enclave Neighborhoods Place
Active Adult Community On Pace for Record Breaking 12 Month Period

SOMERSET, N.J. — Canal Walk, the popular active adult community in Somerset County’s Franklin Township, is reporting overwhelming buyer interest in two of its distinctive housing sections.

The multi-dimensional neighborhood bordering the historic Delaware and Raritan Canal is on pace for a record breaking year thanks to rapid sales activity in its Reserve and Enclave neighborhoods, according to developer Premier Development. The Reserve features spacious and luxurious ranch-inspired and two-story single-family homes, while the Enclave offers magnificently-appointed condominium residences.

Much of the success is linked to the introduction of value-packed pricing and brand new housing designs which are opening the door to an affordable resort-inspired lifestyle for more active adults than ever before at Canal Walk, indicates Sales Manager George Adinolfi.

“The key ingredient in the popularity of Canal Walk has been the ability to accurately examine and respond to today’s housing market by introducing new home plans and pricing that have tremendous appeal and accommodate the needs of today’s adult buyers,” says Mr. Adinolfi.
“For example, condominium residences in our Enclave neighborhood are now available at the lowest prices ever offered at Canal Walk.

“In our Reserve section, we’ve taken a creative and bold step by reconfiguring a number of popular single-family designs and are offering them as ranch homes with reduced prices from just $361,900. We also have luxurious two-story homes in the Reserve now available for immediate occupancy, priced from $441,900.”

The ranch-style designs at Canal Walk are being snapped up in quick fashion by discerning buyers who appreciate the community’s desirable Somerset County location and Energy-Star Certified homes. To keep pace with the strong sales activity, construction is now underway on two new ranch model homes which will vividly illustrate the functional single-level floorplans at Reserve at Canal Walk. Once completed, the residences will join five existing models at the community.

Residences in the Reserve provide greater comfort and lower energy bills due to the fact that they are being developed under strict guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and include energy-saving features that make them significantly more efficient than typical homes.

Two-story single-family homes in the Reserve offer up to 3,200 square-feet, three or four-bedrooms and 3 to 3.5 baths. The two-bedroom ranch homes boast up to approximately 2,500 square-feet, 2 to 3.5 baths and are located on oversized homesites.

“These residences are also being offered with new feature packages that will provide buyers with more interior options and more flexibility than ever before,” Mr. Adinolfi points out.

The Reserve homes boast upscale standard appointments such as nine-foot first floor ceilings, hardwood flooring, decorator light fixtures and large eat-in kitchens with 42” cabinets, granite countertops and GE™ appliances, including a self-cleaning range and space-saver microwave. Sumptuous master bedroom suites include tray ceilings and a master bath with a soaking tub and separate shower with built-in seat. The homes include plenty of storage space which is always a major consideration for active adults.

“Two-story residences also offer staircases with oak treads and dramatic oak railings,” says Mr. Adinolfi.

At the Enclave at Canal Walk, active adults are showing great interest in the newest condominium phase where several of the homes have already been reserved throughout the fall season. The neighborhood has made its mark on active adult housing thanks to its unique blend of maintenance-free condominium living, elegant one-level designs and a resort-like environment.

“The Enclave has appealed to active adults who want the peace of mind that comes with condominium living and the activity-rich lifestyle offered at a community where the comprehensive roster of recreational amenities is already complete and open,” says Mr. Adinolfi. “Here, they can simply turn the key and head out to visit nearby family and friends or escape to Florida in the colder months. When they return home to the Enclave, a magnificent home and country-club inspired neighborhood awaits them.”

Competively-priced from just $224,900, residences at the Enclave range in size from 1,500 square feet to more than 1,800 square feet. Six magnificent two-bedroom housing designs feature open floorplans, large living rooms, gourmet kitchens with Corian™ countertops, GE™ appliances, huge amounts of cabinet and pantry space, nine foot ceilings, hardwood entry foyer flooring, master bedroom suites have large walk-in closets and lavish master baths with ceramic tile floors, seated showers and oversized soaking tubs.

“Homes in the elevator buildings also offer outdoor space and balconies, as well as indoor parking,” Mr. Adinolfi points out.

The lively and active lifestyles at the Reserve and Enclave are centered around the 32,000-square-foot Premier Club at Canal Walk, one of the largest and most comprehensive in the state. Featured inside are a heated indoor pool and whirlpool, a spa equipped with steam room and sauna and fully-equipped fitness room. There’s also a library, craft room, billiards room and separate men’s and women’s card rooms for gathering with neighbors and friends. In addition, a business center, banquet hall and lounges are also available inside the clubhouse.

Tennis and bocce courts and a putting green are also offered on-site, adjacent to the refreshing outdoor pool and spa. Additional services include a beauty salon and a massage and wellness center.

“And of course, the community’s location near the Delaware and Raritan Canal offers access to recreational amenities such as the community’s walking trails which have been carefully laid out to connect with sections of the old canal that have been preserved as public open space,” comments Mr. Adinolfi. “There are several other leisurely-pursuits available at Somerset County’s many golf courses, gardens, parks, museums and art exhibits.”

For more information on the Reserve at Canal Walk, please call (732) 564-0010. For additional information on the Enclave at Canal Walk, please call (732) 356-1191. Details on both neighborhoods can also be found at www.premierdevelopment.com. To visit Canal Walk, take Route 287 to Exit 12. Make a left onto Weston Canal Road and proceed 2.4 miles until you reach Schoolhouse Road. Turn left onto Schoolhouse Road and continue 7/10 of a mile until you reach the entrance at Canal Walk Boulevard. Make a right into the entrance and follow signs to the sales office and models on your left.

###

Fast-Selling Townhome Community Prepares to Welcome First Residents

ALLAMUCHY, N.J. –- Fall is quickly shaping up to be a significant and exciting season at Mountain Ridge at Panther Valley, the popular collection of competitively-priced three-bedroom townhomes rising within this well-established residential neighborhood in Allamuchy Township.

Most notably, Mountain Ridge is preparing to welcome its initial residents, signifying the transition from a construction site to an active, lived in neighborhood is underway, according to Baker Residential, which is developing the community amidst the rolling hills of scenic Warren County.

“The arrival of our first homeowners is one of the most important milestones in the progress and development of this community,” says Sales Representative Hollis Schlip.

“Soon, visitors will not only be able to see first-hand the elegant floorplans, picturesque location and activity-rich environment at Mountain Ridge, they’ll also be able to experience the close-knit atmosphere that will define the community as new neighbors move-in, become acquainted and begin fostering friendships. And to better provide a comprehensive glimpse into this true lifestyle at Mountain Ridge, we expect to open an on-site sales center in early November.”

While activity abounds on the development front at Mountain Ridge, sales continue to soar in the community’s recently released second phase of townhomes. The impressive number of sales recorded has allowed Mountain Ridge to emerge as one of the most successful selling new-home communities in northwest New Jersey.

Much of the appeal of Mountain Ridge stems from its well-appointed housing designs, affordable introductory pricing and exclusive neighborhood environment. The sought-after housing opportunity has proven to generate strong interest from a variety of purchasers – ranging from young couples and growing families to empty-nesters looking to scale down to more manageable homes.

“Customers have jumped at the opportunity to purchase a home in one of New Jersey’s most desirable locations at very competitive prices starting from just $249,990,” says Ms. Schlip. “This indicates there’s a large number of buyers who recognize now is the time to buy to receive great value and considerable demand for homes that offer well-planned and modern living spaces at a fraction of the cost for similar residences further east.”

Sales at Mountain Ridge at Panther Valley have been further fueled by the opportunity for homebuyers to make a well-educated and informed decision at the community thanks to “Simple Steps to Homeownership” seminars which provide a comprehensive look at the purchasing process at the suburban neighborhood. Scores of prospects have turned out for the events which offer detailed information on buying a home and tours of some of the buildings under construction at the magnificent new community.

Topics include an overview of development and sales, selections of interior features and colors, description of orientation meetings and warranty information. Attendees can also speak and receive advice from a mortgage specialist on loan options and the fact that Mountain Ridge is expected to be approved by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) has had strong appeal to first-time buyers. This means qualified buyers could take advantage of friendly FHA financing that requires only 3.5% down.

“The opportunity to take advantage of federal programs is certainly a draw for many young professionals purchasing their first home,” says Barbara Cohen, another Baker Sales Representative. “On the other hand, empty-nesters looking to trade in large single-family homes with no longer needed bedrooms and tiresome upkeep appreciate the low-maintenance, care-free lifestyle.

“Simply put, Mountain Ridge offers something for everyone.”

Five different designs are offered at Mountain Ridge ranging from 1,968 to 2,850 square feet and boasting 2.5 baths, one-or two-car garages, as well as designer interior appointments such as walk-in closets, gourmet kitchens and full finished basements included in the purchase price.

Homes at Mountain Ridge have been designed to reflect the natural beauty of Panther Valley, which is defined by rolling hills and heavily wooded terrain. Each townhome building will combine design elements with country-inspired details to create streetscapes of enormous grace and flair.

“Our unique location at the top of a mountain provides panoramic views of the surrounding countryside to strengthen the tranquil, small-town environment,” adds Ms. Schlip.

The striking new community is part of Panther Valley and its world-class recreational amenities. Residents will enjoy two sparkling lakes, two beautiful pools with a third to come, a wealth of tennis courts and the 18-hole Panther Valley Golf & Country Club located within the gated Panther Valley community and available on a membership-only basis.

Mountain Ridge homeowners will also appreciate the community’s convenient location, which offers a quick trip to the array of business, cultural and entertainment opportunities throughout northern New Jersey and beyond. The community is located in close proximity to a several major highways, including Routes 80, 287 and 78.

“If its outdoor recreation they seek, Mountain Ridge is in the heart of one of New Jersey’s natural havens,” Ms. Schlip indicates. “The community lies in the shadows of the Allamuchy and Stephens Mountains, while the 70,000-acre Delaware Water Gap is nearby where fishing, boating, camping, kayaking and more can be found. “

Shopping, fine dining and entertainment are also close at hand at the Rockaway Townsquare Mall, which features several national retailers and department stores. Local shops and boutiques can also be found in historic downtown Morristown and Parsipanny.

For additional information on Mountain Ridge at Panther Valley please call 908-852-0016or visit http://Town.HomesAtMtnRidge.com. To visit, go on Route 80 West. Take exit 19 for County Highway 517 towards Hackettstown. Turn left at County Highway 517/County Road 517. Turn right at Bald Eagle Road. Proceed to gatehouse and ask for Mountain Ridge at Panther Valley.