HILLSBOROUGH, N.J. – Larken Associates has announced new lease signings at Branchburg Commons and Montgomery Commons, two of its professional office and medical office complexes in central New Jersey.

Dr. Margaret Andrin, an OBGYN and Nutritionist, has signed a ten-year lease for a 4,708 square-feet office at Branchburg Commons, the 15-building, 116,500 sq.-ft professional and medical office campus located directly on Route 22 in Somerset County’s Branchburg Township according to Victor Kelly, a vice president of Raider Realty, the exclusive broker for Larken Associates, who handled the transaction.

In addition, Princeton Center For Leadership Training, a non-profit organization which conducts and teaches education leadership programs, has reserved 2,841 square-feet for a training center at Montgomery Commons, a nine-building, 59,319 sq. ft. of medical and office complex in Mercer County’s desirable Princeton Township. Robert Marek, another Raider Realty vice president, served as broker for the signing.

Branchburg Commons has emerged as one of central New Jersey’s prime destination for doctors and medical-based companies. The complex is situated minutes away from many of the state’s major medical epicenters and hospitals, including Somerset Medical Center, Hunterdon Medical Center and Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital.

In addition to medical tenants, Branchburg Commons is headquarters for a variety of companies, all of which drawn to the complex’s state-of-the-art facilities and desirable location. The corporate park is located minutes from major highways such as Routes 22, 28, 287, 78 and 202 & 206 allowing quick access to the business epicenters of Somerset, Hunterdon and lower Morris Counties.

Branchburg Commons offers built-to-suit leasing opportunities with suites sized from 800 square feet and up. The campus also includes a free-standing 7,000 square foot building currently occupied by Goddard School, a modern day care facility.

Montgomery Commons features one-and two-story classic red brick buildings designed in the colonial Williamsburg style featuring accent quoins, widow walks & cupolas topped with decorative weather vanes. Suites available can be built-to-suite and range from 830 to more than 3,000 square-feet.

The complex is also desirable for companies seeking a close proximity to the medical facilities and prominent hospitals in Somerset County. Situated on 34-acres of manicured grounds on Applegate Road just off of Route 206, Montgomery Commons is also a quick trip from downtown Princeton and right next to the Princeton Airport.

For further information on available space at one of Larken Associates’ commercial offerings, contact Victor Kelly or Robert Marek of Raider Realty at (908) 874-8686. Also, be sure to visit Larken’s web site at http://www.larkenassociates.com. Based in Hillsborough, N.J., Larken Associates is one of the largest developers of office, professional and industrial complexes in central and western New Jersey and eastern Pennsylvania. The company currently owns and manages commercial projects totaling more than 1.5 million square feet.

###

The Enclave at Canal Walk offers elegant condominium homes.

Market Driven Pricing, Active Lifestyle and Sought-After Location Create Incredible Value at Somerset County Neighborhood

SOMERSET, NJ – Market driven pricing and incredible value are certainly a major draw and a prime reason for active adults to purchase at Canal Walk in suburban Somerset County. However, recent prospects are quickly discovering there’s so much more that makes this well-established and popular community a fantastic buying opportunity.

“Obviously, our reduced pricing structure is the first thing that catches the eye of homebuyers,” says George Adinolfi, Sales Manager for Premier Development, which is developing Canal Walk in a sought-after location bordering the historic Delaware and Raritan Canal in Franklin Township. “But it doesn’t take long to discover all the other attributes that makes this community so special. Once they get an in depth look at Canal Walk, they are amazed at just how much home and lifestyle they receive for their money.”

Topping the list is the array of housing designs at Canal Walk which are sure to fulfill the needs and desires of any buyer. The neighborhood features upscale Energy-Star certified two-story and ranch single-family homes in its Reserve section, well-appointed one-level condominiums in the Enclave, along with a selection of magnificent townhomes.

“Canal Walk’s different housing designs and layouts offer something for everyone ,” Mr. Adinolfi points out. “For example, buyers who want more space for guests and storage are attracted to the two-story single-family homes, while those who want the ease and convenience of single-level living are choosing our Enclave condominiums. Active adults who want the best of both have embraced the single-level ranch designs.

“What’s more, we have a limited number of two-story single-family homes in the Reserve that offer immediate occupancy, an ideal situation for those who want to take advantage of Federal Tax Credits that have been extended to purchasers that have owned their current home for at least five years Homebuyers can close on these homes by the deadline on June 30th, 2010 and be able receive up to $6,500 in tax credits.”

The impressive homes at Canal Walk are only enhanced by its resort-inspired, country club lifestyle that is unrivaled by any comparable active adult community in central New Jersey. Highlighting the well-rounded, activity-rich environment is a private 32,000 square-foot clubhouse — the Premier Club at Canal Walk — which is one of the largest and most amenity-rich in the state. Featured inside are a heated pool and whirlpool, a spa with steam room, sauna and a fully-equipped fitness room. There’s also a library, crafts room, billiards room and separate men’s and women’s card rooms. In addition, a business center, banquet hall and lounges are available. Tennis, bocce courts and a putting green are adjacent to the refreshing outdoor pool and spa. Additional services include a beauty salon and a massage and wellness center.

“What separates Canal Walk from many other new active adult communities is that our world-class amenities are open and functioning, meaning a new lifestyle is awaiting homeowners from the day they arrive,” Mr. Adinolfi indicates. “We also have the added benefit of our unique location near the Delaware and Raritan Canal which offers direct access to amenities such as the community’s walking trails which have been laid out to connect with sections of the historic canal that have been preserved as public open space.”

Best of all, Canal Walk’s convenient location enables receive to receive the magnificent, relaxed lifestyle they desire, all the while remaining close to family and friends. The community is a short trip from Route 287, offering easy access to major highways such as the Garden State Parkway and New Jersey Turnpike and bringing children and grandchildren within minutes.

The Reserve is a collection of Energy Star Certified single-family homes highlighted by two distinctive designs – luxurious ranch-style residences which include the new Concord model priced from just $357,900 and two-story homes priced from $439,900.

Construction is well underway on two new ranch model homes at the Reserve. Once completed, the ranch models will join five existing models at the community. Some of the largest single-family designs are featured in the Ranch homes which offer up to approximately 2,500 square feet, two-and three-bedroom, 2 to 2.5 baths, and are located on oversized homesites. The residences are also being offered with new feature packages that will provide buyers with more interior options and more flexibility than ever before.

The new homes boast upscale standard appointments such as nine-foot first floor ceilings, hardwood flooring, convenient gas fireplaces 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 also include plenty of storage space which is always a major consideration for active adults.

In addition to the Ranch designs, a number of upscale two-story homes in the Reserve provide many of the same standard features as the ranch homes, as well as staircases with oak treads and dramatic oak railings.

“Both home styles provide incredible comfort and lower energy bills than typical homes because they are being developed under strict guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency,” says Mr. Adinolfi.

The Enclave at Canal Walk is an exclusive neighborhood of condominium homes competitively-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 are offered featuring spacious and open floorplans, large living rooms, gourmet kitchens with Corian™ countertops and GE™ appliances and 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.

For more information on the Reserve at Canal Walk, please call (732) 564-0010. For more information on the Enclave at Canal Walk, please call (732) 356-1191. Information on both neighborhoods can be found at www.premierdevelopment.com. To visit, 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 model park and sales offices. ###

Hotel Review: W Hoboken in Hoboken, N.J.

January 31, 2010

 By DAN SALTZSTEIN

 THE BASICS

When the W Hoboken opened in early 2009, it sounded a bit like the beginning of a joke (“A high-end hotel chain walks into the Jersey waterfront …”). In fact, the hotel has a perfectly reasonable two-pronged sales pitch: it’s only a few blocks from the PATH train — and thus minutes from downtown Manhattan — and doubles start at prices often $150 less than those at the W outposts in Times Square or Union Square (my wife and I paid $244 for a Saturday night stay); and unlike most rooms in those other hotels, it offers views of the Hudson River and Manhattan skyline.

LOCATION

Smack on the Hudson River, a few blocks north of the PATH station. This gives the traveler a choice: enjoy what Hoboken has to offer, or take the $1.75 ride to the West Village, only a few minutes away, or to Pennsylvania Station. (The PATH train runs about every 6 to 15 minutes from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., and every half-hour at night.) But don’t discount Hoboken: Washington Street, the city’s main night-life strip, is only a few blocks away, and there’s a lovely riverside park and pier just across the street, where fisherman sometimes troll for crabs.

THE ROOM

When we arrived, having booked a room with a city view, we were offered the choice of Midtown or downtown — a nice decision to have to make, though the result was a little disappointing. Because of the angular shape of the hotel, only the largest suites have full views of Manhattan. From our room, the city was visible only from the large, round divan by the window; from everywhere else, we were looking at luxury condos across the street. The rest of the room satisfied with a lush king-size bed; sharply focused, adjustable reading lamps; a 37-inch plasma TV; an iPod docking station; and a sleek, mostly monochromatic design. (Note to the folks at W: either get rid of the silly minibar top, which glows a bright rainbow of colors, or make it easier to shut off. We had to call down to reception to figure it out after turning out the room lights.)

THE BATHROOM

Small and standard. On the plus side, comfy robes and toiletries from the Bliss spa downstairs are provided. The shower itself, however, inexplicably has only half a door, making wet floors all too likely.

AMENITIES

The W has two bars, the Living Room, a pleasant, mellow one near the lobby (free Wi-Fi here; it costs extra in the rooms), and the Chandelier Room, which has become a fixture on the Hoboken night-life scene. With its oversized lamps and odd hanging seats, the décor is out of a Tim Burton movie, but we had trouble keeping our eyes off the gorgeous skyline view behind the bar. The spot becomes a club later in the evening, so if you plan on a visit, get yourself on the V.I.P. list (just ask when you check in). There’s also the spa, a large fitness center and Zylo, an upscale Tuscan steakhouse.

ROOM SERVICE

A large menu of options is available — with some choices imported from Zylo. We chose their variation on eggs Benedict, with prosciutto and grilled Tuscan bread ($15), and the French Kiss, French toast with caramelized orange butter and mascarpone ($11), which arrived on time with acceptable coffee and orange juice.

THE BOTTOM LINE

A terrific location, a general level of comfort and reasonable prices make the W Hoboken a viable alternative to its Manhattan siblings.

W Hoboken, 225 River Street, Hoboken, N.J.; (201) 253-2400; whotels.com. Weekend rates from $188 (non-city view).

 

New Phase Exemplifies Healthy Lifestyle and Green Building Practices
At Upscale Bayonne, NJ Waterfront Apartment Community

BAYONNE, N.J. – Trammell Crow Residential has unveiled the second phase of upscale apartments at Alexan CityView on the Peninsula at Bayonne Harbor with a 100% smoke-free environment, a unique lifestyle feature that is the first of its kind in New Jersey and nearly unheard of in the New York Metropolitan marketplace.

The distinctive new building housing a variety of one-, two- and three-bedroom residences at the upscale waterfront neighborhood will further exemplify the environmentally-conscience nature of the community which is the largest LEED-Certified multifamily development in the United States.

Offering stunning direct views of the waterfront and Manhattan skyline, the new phase will also feature a number of new apartment designs offered for the first time at Alexan CityView, including residences with oversized curved windows that maximize the waterfront views. Initial occupancy for the new apartments is scheduled for April.

“Alexan CityView has already carved a niche in today’s marketplace by attracting renters who want luxurious homes and world-class recreational amenities in a neighborhood developed responsibly and with the sensitivity of the surrounding environment in mind,” notes Richard Murphy, Managing Director of Trammell Crow Residential.

“We believe the decision to introduce this new building which will be the only 100% smoke free rental offering in the State will be embraced by a growing segment of the public that seeks a healthier lifestyle at home.”

The opening of the leasing program on the second building at Alexan CityView follows the success of the community’s initial phase with more than 160 apartments now leased and nearly 150 residents moved in. The impressive leasing numbers demonstrate the strong demand for apartments that offer elegant and graceful interior designs, spectacular Manhattan-inspired amenities and a commuter-friendly location, all at attractive rental rates considerably lower than those found at other rental communities lesser in quality and luxury throughout the “Gold Coast.”

“We’ve created an exciting new alternative in the area with apartments that masterfully blend expansive living spaces with upscale finishes and appointments, a comprehensive suite of amenities and services that approximates to a luxury resort, and a sprawling waterfront site that’s just blocks from the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail and a short trip into neighboring Hoboken, Jersey City and Manhattan,” Mr. Murphy points out.

Alexan CityView offers spacious studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments at monthly rents currently starting from $1,595. A selection of townhomes is also available with rents starting at $3,265. Renters can take advantage of special lease programs, including two months free for those who lease now and options of up to 24 month lease terms.

While the apartments embody all of the elements of an elegant lifestyle, the hallmark of Alexan CityView is the community’s dramatic 9,000 square-foot WiFi-enabled clubhouse which features a fully-equipped fitness center with children’s playroom, indoor half basketball court, executive business center, media lounge and club with billiards, tabletop shuffleboard, teaching kitchen and numerous HDTVs. Outside, a magnificent heated pool and sundeck can be found.

Residents can also take advantage of a 24-hour virtual concierge service and controlled-entry enclosed parking garage.
“A neighborhood dog park is now open and plenty of open green space with well-manicured courtyards will be added as development progresses,” adds Karen Kossow, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Kettler Management, which is handling leasing and property management services for Alexan CityView. “What’s more, a shuttle is available to whisk residents to and from Alexan CityView to the Hudson Bergen Light-Rail Station which offers easy access into New York City via PATH Trains and ferries in neighboring Jersey City.”

Situated on an expansive 297-acre site along New York Harbor, Alexan CityView offers panoramic views of Manhattan, the Verrazano Bridge and the spectacular Bayonne Golf Club. The community’s location offers easy access to the New Jersey Turnpike and Routes 78 and 440 and is just minutes from the Holland Tunnel, while the nearby Hudson Bergen Light Rail offers convenient service to Jersey City, Hoboken, PATH Trains, ferries and other “Gold Coast” attractions.

The meticulously-designed apartments provide the utmost in modern luxury and appeal. Many apartments offer private courtyard balconies and terraces, expanding the elegant living areas and maximizing the spectacular views offered by the waterfront location. Generous closet space and nine-foot ceilings are provided in the living areas.

Upscale finishes and appointments include kitchens with stainless steel ENERGY STAR® appliances, Granite countertops, Chef’s islands or breakfast bars with pendant lighting and European-inspired flat-panel cabinets with stainless pulls. Bathrooms offer ceramic tile tub surrounds, Vanity-width mirrors and Moen® fixtures. Residences also include an individual washer and dryer and available high-speed Verizon Fios phone, cable and internet.

Conceived as a sustainable structure in accordance with the stringent rating requirements of the LEED For Homes Silver certification, Alexan CityView boasts a number of significant “Green” features. For example, each residence is equipped with green para air filtration systems to remove humidity, dust and other airborne particles on a continuous basis. Other environmentally-friendly highlights include a resident recycling program, increased water management practices to contribute to water conservation, ENERGY STAR rated appliances, windows, lights and efficient heating and cooling systems.

For additional information on Alexan CityView and to schedule a tour of the clubhouse and furnished model apartments, please visit www.AlexanCityView.com, or call 201-455-5825.

About Trammell Crow Residential
Nationally acclaimed and nationally recognized, Trammell Crow Residential (TCR) is the premier residential development firm in the nation. For over three decades, TCR has been building better environments for living. TCR’s commitment is to build communities that are more than simply places to live. TCR builds homes where you can grow, prosper and enjoy a quality of life uncommon in rental living. Each community is designed with unparalleled sensitivity to regional preferences, both in construction and amenities. Architectural design complements the setting, interior floor plans are both functional and flexible, and landscaping and community areas are carefully designed and immaculately groomed. Each community TCR develops is truly a reflection of forward-thinking design, integrating living and recreation spaces for today’s lifestyles. TCR apartments are among any city’s most desirable apartments.

For more information about Tramwell Crow Residential, please visit www.tcresidential.com.

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A single-family home at the Reserve at Canal Walk

SOMERSET, NJ – 2009 was undoubtedly one of the most successful selling sales year to date at Canal Walk thanks to brand new housing designs and value-packed reduced pricing. This incredible success has quickly translated into a flurry of development activity to start the New Year at the active adult community in Somerset County’s Franklin Township.

Construction is moving along swiftly on the large number of homes purchased at the popular community during the second half of 2009 and residents are buzzing with excitement as they prepare to welcome their new neighbors, according to George Adinolfi, Sales Manager for Premier Development, which is developing Canal Walk bordering the historic Delaware and Raritan Canal

New homeowners are equally thrilled to not only begin their well-rounded lifestyle at Canal Walk, but also with the incredible value they received by purchasing a home in the community’s Enclave and Reserve neighborhoods after the reduced pricing was introduced last year. The new pricing structure afforded active adults the unique opportunity to buy a residence at significant savings without sacrificing any of the luxury, quality and appeal that have made Canal Walk a desirable housing destination.

“When we introduced new prices at the Reserve and Enclave last year, savvy homebuyers quickly took notice and we experienced a surge of sales activity in the last six months,” Mr. Adinolfi points out. “These sales are now being realized in the form of completed homes, creating a very lively environment throughout the community.

The Reserve at Canal Walk is an exclusive collection of Energy Star Certified single-family homes. Highlighted in the Reserve are two distinctive single-family designs – luxurious ranch-style residences which include the new Concord model priced from just $357,900 and two-story homes priced from $441,900.

Construction is well underway on two new ranch model homes at the Reserve. Once completed, the ranch models will join five existing models at the community to vividly illustrate all the spacious and functional single-family floorplans at Reserve at Canal Walk.

Some of the largest single-family designs are featured in the new Ranch homes which offer up to approximately 2,500 square feet, two-and three-bedroom, 2 to 2.5 baths, and are located on oversized homesites. The residences are also being offered with new feature packages that will provide buyers with more interior options and more flexibility than ever before.

The new 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 also include plenty of storage space which is always a major consideration for active adults.

In addition to the Ranch designs, a number of upscale two-story homes in the Reserve are now available for immediate occupancy. The residences provide many of the same standard features as the ranch homes, as well as staircases with oak treads and dramatic oak railings.

“Both home styles provide incredible comfort and lower energy bills than typical homes because they are being developed under strict guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency,” says Mr. Adinolfi. “Purchasers may also be able to take advantage of Federal Tax Credits available to those who have owned their current home for at least five years. The program allows eligible buyers to receive up to $6,500 in tax credits if they close on their home by June 30th, 2010.”

The Enclave at Canal Walk is an exclusive neighborhood of condominium homes competitively-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 are offered featuring spacious and open floorplans, large living rooms, gourmet kitchens with Corian™ countertops and GE™ appliances and 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 allure of Canal Walk is intensified thanks to its country-club lifestyle. Residents enjoy a private 32,000 square-foot clubhouse — the Premier Club at Canal Walk — which is one of the largest and most amenity-rich in the state. Featured inside are a heated pool and whirlpool, a spa equipped with steam room, sauna and a fully-equipped fitness room. There’s also a library, crafts room, billiards room and separate men’s and women’s card rooms. In addition, a business center, banquet hall and lounges are available. Tennis, bocce courts and a putting green are adjacent to the refreshing outdoor pool and spa. Additional services include a beauty salon and a massage and wellness center.

“What’s more, our location near the Delaware and Raritan Canal offers direct access to amenities such as the community’s walking trails which have been laid out to connect with sections of the historic canal that have been preserved as public open space,” Mr. Adinolfi says.

For more information on the Reserve at Canal Walk, please call (732) 564-0010. For more information on the Enclave at Canal Walk, please call (732) 356-1191. Information on both neighborhoods can be found at www.premierdevelopment.com. To visit, 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 model park and sales offices. ###

Wild Workout Combines Ballet, Yoga and Striptease

 Grab your gal pals and get fit and fabulous just in time for Valentine’s Day!   W Hoboken and Sheila Kelley’s S Factor have partnered together for the month of February to create the hottest Girls Night Out to hit this side of the Hudson River!

 What: You’ve heard about it, now experience it for yourself! Sheila Kelley’s S Factor, the original workout inspired by yoga, ballet, striptease and pole dancing is coming to NJ for the first time!

 Each class begins with a Meet & Greet and is followed by a 90 minute workout and a complimentary cocktail in the luxurious Living Room. The cost is $65 per session and a complimentary DVD is provided if all 4 classes are purchased. 

 When: Every Monday in February.  Intro to Pole 2/1, Pure Tease 2/8, Lap Dance 2/15, Pole Class 2/22.

 Where: W Hoboken, 225 River Street, Hoboken, NJ

 Space is limited so reserve your space today by calling 212.989.8030

 About W Hotels Worldwide®

W Hotels is an innovative contemporary lifestyle brand and the hotel category buster with 35 hotels and retreats in the most vibrant cities and exotic destinations around the world. Inspiring, iconic, innovative and influential, W Hotels provides the ultimate in insider access to a world of “Wow.” Each hotel offers a unique mix of innovative design and passions around fashion, music and entertainment.  W Hotels offers a holistic lifestyle experience that is integrated into the brand’s sensibility through contemporary restaurant concepts, glamorous nightlife experiences, and signature spas.  With 10 years of proven success, W Hotels is on track to double its footprint by 2011. W Hotels and W Retreats have been announced for Downtown New York, Hollywood, London, Paris, St. Petersburg, Shanghai, Bali, Vieques Island and Verbier, among other international destinations. For more information, visit www.whotels.com.

Watch the 2010 Grammy Awards in the Comforts of OUR Living Room

 Please join us for a live viewing party as we watch the stars come out for the 52^nd Annual Grammy Awards!  Bring your friends and dress to impress as W brings the glitz and glamour to Hoboken.

 What: Celebrate a night of music and festivities with drinks specials on Absolut and Perrier Jouet cocktails and half prize appetizers as the Grammy Awards are broadcast live. 

 When: Sunday January 31.  Red Carpet arrivals begin at 6pm, Awards commence at 8pm.

 Where: W Hoboken, 225 River Street, Hoboken, NJ

 About W Hotels Worldwide®

W Hotels is an innovative contemporary lifestyle brand and the hotel category buster with 35 hotels and retreats in the most vibrant cities and exotic destinations around the world. Inspiring, iconic, innovative and influential, W Hotels provides the ultimate in insider access to a world of “Wow.” Each hotel offers a unique mix of innovative design and passions around fashion, music and entertainment.  W Hotels offers a holistic lifestyle experience that is integrated into the brand’s sensibility through contemporary restaurant concepts, glamorous nightlife experiences, and signature spas.  With 10 years of proven success, W Hotels is on track to double its footprint by 2011. W Hotels and W Retreats have been announced for Downtown New York, Hollywood, London, Paris, St. Petersburg, Shanghai, Bali, Vieques Island and Verbier, among other international destinations. For more information, visit www.whotels.com.

W Hoboken Hotel and Residences Partners with Sheila Kelley’s S Factor For the Ultimate Girls Getaway Weekend

 HOBOKEN, NJ – January 25, 2010 –W Hoboken Hotel and Residences is putting a flirty spin on the ultimate girls’ weekend getaway. Ladies are invited to grab their gal pals and experience a wow worthy weekend highlighted by Sheila Kelley’s S Factor pole dancing workout classes.

 W Hoboken Girls Getaway Weekend combines the quintessential W experience with introductory classes to Sheila Kelley’s S Factor, a groundbreaking movement technique that will help ladies discover a great new way to workout which will inspire a fabulous inner body attitude. This original workout inspired by yoga, ballet, striptease and pole dancing promises to empower, enlighten and change the lives of woman everywhere including those lucky enough to experience this fabulous Girls Getaway Weekend.

 The W Hoboken S Factor Girls Getaway Weekend is being offered from January 29-31, 2010 and includes the following fabulous components:

•  Ultra chic accommodations in a Wonderful guestroom
• Purple Lab’s Huge Lips Skinny Hips Lip Gloss
• 2 cool cocktails to kick off the weekend
• 1 Metro card to whisk you and your friends to NYC
• 10% discount off any product at S Factor studio

 This package is priced starting from $219 and is based on double occupancy. You can learn more about The W Hoboken S Factor Girls Getaway Weekend at www.whotels.com/hoboken

 2 Intro Classes at S Factor Studio (on 1/30 and 1/31) at $40 per class/per person are NOT included in package price. Book your classes directly through S Factor at 212.989.8030.

 **As part of this exclusive partnership, W Hoboken will be hosting weekly S Factor classes for the month of February, just in time for you and your gal pals to get in shape for Valentine’s Day!   Classes are Intro to Pole, Pure Tease, Lap Dance, and Pole Class.  All classes include a Meet & Greet followed by a 90 minute class and complimentary cocktail in the Living Room.  $65 per session.  For more information, please call 212.989.8030

 About W Hotels Worldwide®

W Hotels is an innovative contemporary lifestyle brand and the hotel category buster with 35 hotels and retreats in the most vibrant cities and exotic destinations around the world. Inspiring, iconic, innovative and influential, W Hotels provides the ultimate in insider access to a world of “Wow.” Each hotel offers a unique mix of innovative design and passions around fashion, music and entertainment.  W Hotels offers a holistic lifestyle experience that is integrated into the brand’s sensibility through contemporary restaurant concepts, glamorous nightlife experiences, and signature spas.  With 10 years of proven success, W Hotels is on track to double its footprint by 2011. W Hotels and W Retreats have been announced for Downtown New York, Hollywood, London, Paris, St. Petersburg, Shanghai, Bali, Vieques Island and Verbier, among other international destinations. For more information, visit www.whotels.com

About Sheila Kelley’s S Factor

Sheila Kelley’s S Factor has incited widespread media frenzy, resulting in Sheila’s appearances on a plethora of national news and talk shows, including Oprah, 20/20, 48 Hours, VH-1, The View, and Late Night with Conan O’Brien, Primetime Monday and on networks such as MTV and MSNBC, among a multitude of others. Her S Factor classes are the rage of New York and Hollywood as her most vocal student, Teri Hatcher, has demonstrated to Howard Stern, Oprah, and Barbara Walters, as well as to a variety of magazines including US Weekly, People, Bazaar, OK! Magazine, and In Touch.

Tri-state area singles are invited to meet the new love of their lips at the “Find Your Luvah” speed dating event hosted by Master Matchmaker® Steve Ward on Friday, January 29, 2010

WHAT: Double duty beauty brand Purple Lab and the ultra chic W Hoboken Hotel and Residences join Master Matchmaker® Steve Ward, CEO of Master Matchmakers®, from VH1’s “Tough Love” and recently announced “Tough Love Couples” to break the Guinness World Records® record in hosting the largest speed dating event.

WHY: To celebrate the launch of Purple Lab’s new beauty product, “Luvah,” a double plumping lip color equipped with aphrodisiacs – all female participants will apply “Luvah” before speed dating. A portion of proceeds benefit Women In Need, a charity providing helping care for homeless women and their families in New York City.

WHO: Tri-state area singles, ages 21-35 are invited to meet other singles in their area and are prepped for the occasion by Master Matchmaker® Steve Ward.

WHEN: Friday, January 29, 2009, 8-10pm, $15/per person.

WHERE: W Hoboken Hotel and Residences, 225 River Street, Hoboken, New Jersey 07030.

February 2010

Thinking of Jumping Back In?

by Adrienne Albert
The Marketing Directors, Inc

2009 was a year of transformation. The general consensus is the turning point of this recession happened in June 2009. Starting in the summer and gaining strength into the fall, 2009 improved in all sectors, as we predicted.

Manhattan and the surrounding areas have already seen resurgence. The 30%-50% price drop never happened in Manhattan and it is unlikely that it will occur. The mindset of buyers who previously were hesitant to move forward has shifted to one of tentative motivation.

There are currently 117 new construction offerings in Manhattan below 100th Street, over 59% of which have sold. The backlog of unsold homes is diminishing further strengthening the market.

Foreign buyers are still a large part of our marketplace. They realize that New York is a world class city and find our values to be low compared to other major cities worldwide. Europeans are particularly advantaged because of the Euro/dollar relationship.

However, Asian and South American buyers are still bullish on New York and are putting their money where their mouth is by buying residential real estate. They see the value available today and are taking advantage of this moment in history.

Mortgage rates are still astonishingly low allowing buyers today to leverage their purchase. The mortgage market is loosening the tough criteria it had adopted at the beginning of 2009.

The major banks are repaying the TARP money, and have been asked by the current administration to lend to those needing money for the purchase of a home.

Although lenders are not as aggressive as in the past, home sales are needed to further support this economic recovery. Once the banks adopt this strategy, it should further the residential real estate market in all segments.

Job creation fuels both the rental and for sale markets. The rate of unemployment typically lags behind the economy in the recovery process. Until we have clearly reduced the unemployment rate, recovery will continue at a slow pace.

However, as jobs grow in this market, recovery will also accelerate. The groundwork is in place.

And there is life beyond Manhattan, Jersey City is the star of the Gold Coast, now a residential destination of its own. Both sales and rentals have been brisk throughout the end of 2009 and into 2010. There are great opportunities for those who find Manhattan prices still just a little too expensive.

Brooklyn is making a resurgence. Areas that are established, like Brooklyn Heights, are seeing closings of sales made in 2009 at values higher than the average asking prices for those areas.

Inventory even in Williamsburg, which had the bulk of the building activity in Brooklyn, is diminishing and prices are stabilizing. There are opportunities everywhere!

Rentals in Manhattan have also tightened. As an average, owners were giving as much as three months concession in the fall of 2009. Now, owners are giving less than a one month concession.

The FiDi rental market still suffers because that is where most jobs were lost, but even there inventory is shrinking and concessions are also tightening.

For those of you considering selling your home, gear up for a spring market. Use this time to learn the marketplace, interview brokers to help you with this process, and decide how to best present your home to prospects.

Values may not have returned to those of 2007 for all homeowners, but they certainly are firming beyond those of 2009. It may be time to sell your old home and move up to a new home which has a better chance to ride the wave of appreciation as it grows in the coming months.

So for those of you considering a purchase at this time, now is the moment! Things are changing quickly and you no longer have the luxury of time. The market is getting stronger, inventory is dropping, prices are firming and buyers are coming out of hiding!

Bonuses are being paid in the financial sector this year and we anticipate this will further fuel the residential marketplace. If this purchase is to be your home, now is the time to find a home that meets your needs and elevates your lifestyle. Don’t let this moment pass.

Adrienne Albert, CEO
The Marketing Directors, Inc.
750 Lexington Avenue, 18th Fl.
New York, NY 10022
Tel: 212-826-8822
Fax: 212-826-1122
a.albert@tmdre. com