2008 Summer Edition
A TLANTIC C ITY W EEKLY’S R EAL E STATE M AGAZINE
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A T L A N T I C C I T Y W E E K L Y ’ S HOMES OF SOUTH JERSEY ®
ATLANTIC CITY WEEKLY’S HOMES OF SOUT H J E R S E Y ®
2008 Spring Edition
Hartman Home Team
A TLANTIC C ITY W EEKLY’S R EAL E STATE M AGAZINE Intro...........................................................................6 AllIAnce Homes...........................................................17 BellA (AtlAntIc.cIty)............................................ 22, 24 tHe.cApe House....................................................10, 11 coAstAl DesIgns.................................................... 20, 21 FArley & Ferry.reAlty .........................................................16 Foxmoor Homes.........................................................15 tHe.grAnD At DIAmonD BeAcH.......................................5, 8 l&Z.stone..........................................................22, 23 mr..mortgAge..........................................................7, 8 oceAnsIDe.reAlty................................................12, 13, 14 premIer.propertIes. ...................................................20, 21 procIDA.reAlty &.constructIon....................................2, 4 pruDentIAl Fox &.roAcH (pAulA HArtmAn).....................3, 6 pruDentIAl Fox &.roAcH (lInDA.mAgArIck).....................7, 8 pruDentIAl Fox &.roAcH (rosey Wynn)..............................9 re/mAx.plAtInum/lyDIA.leWIs. ......................................15
Another fine publication by:
A T L A N T I C C I T Y W E E K L Y ’ S HOMES OF SOUTH JERSEY ®
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HE HARTMAN HOME TEAM IS A FULL SER vICE Real Estate team eager to help you with your real estate transaction from first contact to settlement. It is our mission to provide stellar service with uncompromising quality to each and every client. As a team, we are able to pull each member’s expertise, in each area, together to provide you with the very best of service. Working together for eight years, The Hartman Home Team has continually expanded to help meet our clients’ needs. As a team of nine, we have exceeded expectations with our personalized marketing and diligent attention to detail. Comprised of buyer’s agents, listing coordinators, a closing coordinator, photographer, marketing director, professional stager and a Notary Public, we are the ULTIMATE MARKETING MACHINE! Paula Hartman & the Hartman Home Team have the distinction of having the largest sales volume in the Atlantic City and surrounding Downbeach areas, as well as one of the top three largest in New Jersey. We have consistently been ranked in the TOP 100 of Prudential Agents nationally — for GCI and Units Sold — since 2002! The Team’s status as the area’s unsurpassed leader in sales gives its clients extensive exposure to serious customers. Paula and the team members are constantly in touch with their clients and database to ensure that they are notified of our fabulous new listings. Paula Hartman is undoubtedly one of the best around. She is known for her vivacious enthusiasm, reliability, and master-class negotiating skills. With more listings than many broker offices, Paula is overwhelmingly successful in matching buyer and seller for the most successful transaction. Her superior resources, unbeatable formula for success, and reputation have made her one of the top realtors in the nation. As a Broker Associate, Paula has earned high honors and several awards. As a local leader in technology, The Hartman Home Team is constantly updating its very popular Web site: www. HartmanHomeTeam.com. With more than 250 listings, we are always looking for new ways to promote these valued homes to the largest number of potential buyers. Consistent, efficient, integrity, proven results — the power of the Hartman Home Team. Put us to work for you!
ATLANTIC CITY WEEKLY’S HOMES OF SOUT H J E R S E Y ®
Procida’s EastWind Welcome to tHe FIFtH eDItIoN oF Homes of South Jersey® – Atlantic City Weekly’s Real Estate Magazine. Whether you are looking to purchase a summer home or a year-round residence at the Jersey Shore, this summer edition of our quarterly publication, Homes of South Jersey®, will be a helpful tool. Homes of South Jersey® was designed to extend the success of Atlantic City Weekly’s print and online Real Estate section, which has grown dramatically in the past few years, making AC Weekly one of the region’s premier sources for real estate information. While Atlantic City Weekly offers real estate feature stories, transaction listings for Atlantic and Cape May counties and news items, this supplemental guide delivers a magazine with high-end ads and content unlike anything found elsewhere in this market. The next Homes of South Jersey® magazine will be published in August 2008. To reserve space in that publication or to advertise in Atlantic City Weekly, contact Kathy Heery at 09- 4 -4848, ext. 1 . Homes of South Jersey® is published by Atlantic City Weekly from 8025 Black Horse Pike, Suite 350, W. Atlantic City, NJ 08232 quarterly. Advertising rates supplied upon request. Phone 09- 4 -4848 or fax 09- 77-051 . All material in Homes of South Jersey® is copyright 2008 by Review Publishing, L.P. Reproduction of any of the contents in this publication is prohibited unless written permission is granted by management. Homes of South Jersey® and Atlantic City Weekly® are registered trademarks of Review Publishing, L.P. and are registered with the U.S. Patent Office. Send e-mail to info@acweekly.com. Editor Jeff Schwachter, ext. 23 Associate Editors Lori Hoffman, Ray Schweibert Art Director Kevin McCarty, Ext. 12 Production Director Paul Haupt III Production Manager Diana DeLorenzo Senior Graphic Designer Doug Wipf Graphic Designers LeTera Haynes, Matt Prowell, Arthur Shimko Jr., Dawn Trunfio Production Coordinator Kathleen Holmes-Disbrow, ext. 14 Advertising
Sales
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kheery@acweekly.com Real Estate Account Executive Rick Goldstein, ext. 17; e-mail: rgoldstein@acweekly.com Advertising Account Executives Robert Downey, Jr., ext. 18; Jennifer Esposito, ext. 29; Steve Minyon, ext. 13; Steve Novick, ext. 38; Madelon Woller, ext. 21 Accounts Receivable Jean Kelly Circulation Manager Bill Beck, ext. 24; bbeck@acweekly.com Publisher Lewis B. Steiner, ext. 11; lsteiner@acweekly.com
A T L A N T I C C I T Y W E E K L Y ’ S HOMES OF SOUTH JERSEY ®
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F FREqUENT vISITORS TO ATLANTIC CITY OR those commuting into town for work have not ventured out of their favorite casino or office into the town’s newest neighborhoods — known as The Inlet and Atlantic Heights — then they are missing out on a great real estate investment. Procida Realty & Construction, a national award-winning builder, began investing in Atlantic City 10 years ago. As a result of their efforts Atlantic City’s real estate market is looking very attractive. With a majority of New Jersey’s shore communities fully built and far from affordable, this well-known New York developer has steadily been making an impact on Atlantic City’s residential landscape. “Procida has built over 200 homes in Atlantic City and our current development, EastWind, is located just three blocks from the world famous Boardwalk,” says Christine Procida, a principal of Procida Realty and Construction. “We offer quality homes close to the waterfront, great shopping and
entertainment. We’re excited about Atlantic City’s future.” Procida Realty and Construction is proud to announce that delivery of new homes at EastWind will begin in July of this year. “EastWind has it all,” says Lois Chamberlain, sales manager for the development. “With Atlantic City’s best amenities within walking distance of our new homes, and with pricing starting in the mid $200,000s, buyers cannot go wrong with this investment. We feel buyers will be hard pressed to find new, Jersey Shore property for this price,” adds Chamberlain. The homes at EastWind are tastefully designed and incorporate quality construction materials, charming exterior architecture and spacious floor plans. With a variety of models to choose from, EastWind offers three bedrooms, two and a-half baths in either a twin or town house model. Larger models include an additional room that can be used as a den or extra bedroom. The BayShore Townhouse is 1,584 square feet featuring an airy, bright and open floor plan that lends itself to comfort and convenience. The Ocean Air Twin Home is 1,854 square feet featuring an open first-floor plan, which includes a spacious front porch, rear deck and more. To learn more about EastWind and the residential market in Atlantic City, call Procida’s sales office at 09 340-8587 or visit procidahomes.com.
ATLANTIC CITY WEEKLY’S HOMES OF SOUT H J E R S E Y ®
The Grand
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HE SHORE, LIKE NEVER BEFORE. Between charming Cape May and chic Stone Harbor, The Grand at Diamond Beach is an oasis of luxury amid exciting attractions. Rising from the sands of the southern Jersey Shore is a remarkable new collection of condominium residences: The Grand at Diamond Beach. It’s a spectacular place, one that’s worthy of those cherished memories of summers past. On a privately owned beach, this brand new building is a brilliantly modern interpretation of classic seaside architecture, with panoramic views, designer-appointed features and finishes, and comprehensive amenities that provide an unparalleled four-season shore lifestyle. The Grand is designed to maximize views while minimizing cares. Just beyond the sparkling oceanfront infinity pool, the privately owned beach is enhanced by furniture and accessories custom-designed by Smith & Hawken exclusively for The Grand. Numerous oceanfront cabanas, with attendants, offer welcome convenience; food and beverages are readily available at the tiki hut. Inside, The Grand offers amenities to match any mood. Work out on LifeFitness® equipment with LCD displays, or enjoy a restorative spa treatment. Kids have their own activity center and game room. An entertainment room with large flat-panel TV complements a versatile community room with a full kitchen and bathrooms. The exquisite lobby and common areas, designed by critically acclaimed Akseizer Design Group, feature custom-designed Italian furniture and a fully automated audio-visual entertainment system. And on-site management and on-site security personnel provide the peace of mind essential to carefree relaxation. Perhaps the most distinctive amenity of all is Call on Jack. Not just one person, Call on Jack is an extraordinary personal concierge service, available in the Diamond Beach area exclusively to owners at The Grand. From help coordinating move-ins to arranging any number of area activities, Call on Jack is always there, always ready to make life easier and more enjoyable. At The Grand, maximum enjoyment is designed into the residences themselves. Imaginative one-, two- and threebedroom floor plans are offered, most with dens — and every last one with a private veranda for enjoying the ocean breezes and the breathtaking views. Close to so many wonders, and far from cares, is a place where new memories are waiting to be made — memories that may rival those golden days gone by. To learn more about The Grand at Diamond Beach, stop by the Sales Gallery, 9600 Atlantic Ave., Diamond Beach, N.J., call 1- 366-2125 or visit TheGrandAtDiamondBeach.com.
A T L A N T I C C I T Y W E E K L Y ’ S HOMES OF SOUTH JERSEY ®
Linda Magarick
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inda magarick has been in the Real Estate game in southern New Jersey for more than 20 years and has built up a host of experience and expertise, especially in Atlantic City and the Downbeach communities. She specializes in high-rise luxury condos and ocean and bayside homes. Magarick is an award-winning Realtor with Prudential Fox & Roach Realtors. Her philosophy puts the clients first as she provides up-to-date market conditions, accessibility, and quick responses to client needs. That type of dedication has landed Magarick on a number of Real Estate panels, including the New Jersey Board of Realtors (since 19 4) and the Atlantic County Board of Realtors She has been a member of the New Jersey Million Dollar Sales Club since 1992. Magarick works out of her Margate office and prides herself on being accessible to clients using all the latest electronics to provide fast and expansive service. Linda Magarick Prudential Fox & Roach Realtors 921 Ventnor Ave. Margate, NJ 0 402 22-4200 ext. 147 (office) 609 226-3775 (cell)
Mr. Mortgage
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ames J. copsey is a man of many talents. If Copsey’s name sounds familiar, it’s because he operated a well-known local dining establishment, Copsey’s Restaurant, since 1963 and owned it from 19711991. Now, he is the president and chief lending officer of Mr. Mortgage, Inc., located in Northfield. Copsey’s business experience is especially significant when he deals with self-employed borrowers, commercial lending, creative financing and bankruptcy situations. Mr. Mortgage excels in conventional financing and offers clients step-bystep guidance and personalized service. Mr. Mortgage, Inc. opened its doors at “The Chalet” on New Road, Northfield in April 1999. Yet, Copsey has prior mortgage lending experience (since 1994) for a total of 14 years in all phases of financing. A major new attraction in mortgage lending is REVERSE MORTGAGES and Mr. Mortgage specializes in them. Anyone over 62 can get cash out of their home equity, a monthly income for life or both. Mr. Mortgage, Inc. 231 New Road Northfield, NJ 0 225 609 641-900 www.mister-mortgage.com
Rosey Wynn
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Osey Wynn has been in the real estate business for over 20 years. She has been a consistent award winner among her peers, and is very knowledgeable about the Atlantic County area. Rosey was born in Atlantic City, and after college moved back to the area. She now lives in Margate where she enjoys its wonderful beaches and outdoor activities. Her hard work, honesty, and friendly approach to her clients, along with her familiarity of the area, have made her quite good at what she does. Once the owner of Parker Realty, Rosey has been with Prudential Fox & Roach for five years now, serving all of Atlantic County. Rosey is also a director on the Atlantic City & County Board of Realtors, and has been involved with them for 10 years. Rosey Wynn Prudential Fox & Roach Realtors 218 Ventnor Ave. Margate, NJ 08402 60 335-1 55 (cell)
ATLANTIC CITY WEEKLY’S HOMES OF SOUT H J E R S E Y Ž
Make More Space
Cape House Condos
nce the warm weather arrives it’s time for homeowners to take inventory of the clutter that may have been accumulating during the last several months. It’s after a long winter that many people realize they’ve been building up a hodgepodge since the day the temperature began to drop and now it needs to go. For some, simply throwing everything out is the best way to go. For others, a less absolute approach is called for. The following tips should appeal to those on both sides of the fence. • Organize the clutter. Clutter lying around the house is often the product of poor organization. This doesn’t mean items need to be discarded. Instead, a simple DIY project to organize the clutter could be all you need. If winter is when you’re prone to catch up on your reading, you might have a stack of books overflowing off your bookshelf. A trip to a local hardware store, or big chains such as Home Depot or Lowe’s, can provide the tools you need to build a new bookcase so you can keep expanding that library. Rather than purchasing
t the cape house, our owners just have to bring their margarita mix, a bathing suit, and they can head right to the beach,” says Tim Richards, member of TISU Development, LLC in Ocean City, the property’s developer. “These are people who typically do not have time to buy juice glasses. They only want to come down, have fun and go home.” Richards opened the 16-unit Cape House condominium project in October 2007. Seven units have already been sold. The pricing package is based on location in the building, view and size (each one-bedroom condo averages approximately 500 square feet). The two-story beachfront building is located directly on the Ocean City boardwalk, a few short blocks from the commercial district. The eight oceanfront units complement six units facing north, and two facing south. Upon exiting the elevator above the parking lot, owners may enjoy the serene piazza courtyard and soothing waterfall. Individual water, electric and sewer meters economize on costs. The entire apartment is electric, excluding the gas fireplace. The condo is divided into two rooms — a large living/ dining space and a separate bedroom. The kitchen area is equipped with a 30-inch cook-top counter surface with four burners, a built-in convection/microwave oven combination, refrigerator and dishwasher. Additionally, each unit is completely furnished with dishes, silverware, individual Bosch washer and dryer units, two sets of Egyptian thread linens and personal bathrobes. The entire apartment is fully furnished with amenities that reflect a “green” natural ambiance. A custom Tommy Bahama decor package uses natural woven grasses and bamboos for both the flooring and the furniture. Dark bamboo floors wear well and will not buckle from the moisture off the ocean. The living room has stereo and full Internet wiring. The fireplace is decorated with a tumbled marble surround. The sofa opens into a full bed for additional guests. The bedroom maximizes space with a bed foundation that contains several storage drawers and a second wall-mounted flat screen television. The adjoining luxury bathroom features three showerheads and a heated towel bar. Exterior windows and sliding doors off the decks are hurricane strength for durability and soundproofing. Each deck is furnished with a table and chairs, plus an electric George Foreman grill. The large oceanfront decks also have a large hot tub. (See ad at right for contact information.)
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Take inventory of the clutter that may have been accumulating during the last several months. a new bookcase, making a new one will save you money and make the spring cleaning more enjoyable, especially for those who like working with their hands. To see a list of supplies you might need for such a project, visit the Home Depot Web site at www.homedepot.com. • Decide what you really need. One of the biggest causes of clutter is magazines. For whatever reason, back issues of magazines rarely find their way into the recycling bin. Instead, they’re prone to sitting around the house, taking up valuable space. In many cases, people don’t even regularly read magazines they subscribe to. Decide which magazines you want to keep and which ones you can cancel. • Sort mail immediately. In the running with magazines on the clutter culprits list is unread or bulk mail. Nowadays, as paying bills online grows increasingly popular, many creditors and banks offer e-mail statements to help cut down on mailings. If you pay your bills online and such a service is offered, utilize it. If not, be sure to sort mail when it arrives. Shred all junk mail, such as unsolicited credit cards, and then inquire at your local post office or visit the United States Postal Services Web site at www.usps.com to find out how to get off mailing lists. • Cancel extra credit cards. Most people likely get more mail from credit card companies than they do from friends and family. But as far as clutter goes, extra credit cards are more damaging than the extra mail you receive. With an extra credit card comes the temptation to buy something you might not really need. By canceling extra cards, you’re not only saving yourself money by not purchasing stuff you don’t really need, but you’re also reducing the clutter before it even arrives. 10
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Team Oceanside
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t Oceanside realty, a grOup Of real estate professionals is ready to handle every step of your real estate transaction from start to finish. Using a unique team approach, Oceanside’s talented and experienced staff members pool their expertise in each area together, to meet your every need when you’re buying or selling a home. Celebrating its 16th anniversary, “Team Oceanside” is comprised of buyer specialists, listing specialists, a new construction department with a state-of-the-art sales center, rental and commercial divisions, listing coordinators, a marketing team, Internet department as well as a closing manager. Each member of Oceanside Realty possesses special skills that make him/her an integral part of the real estate team. Continuing real estate education courses and seminars ensure that Oceanside
ous customers. Oceanside is the first real estate company in the Wildwoods to offer online vacation rentals. You may even opt to reserve your vacation choice with your Visa or Mastercard. Oceanside Realty’s team approach applies to much more than just real estate — its offices are filled with people who are active in the community and volunteer their time to local causes. Oceanside Realty is a regular contributor to area charities and events, serving as a good neighbor and partner with the Jersey Shore community. Whether you are looking for a second home or investment property, a summer vacation rental or wish to sell an existing property in or around the Wildwoods, Oceanside Realty has the team to make it happen.
Realty members expand their knowledge so they may better serve their clients. Ever since Paul Chiolo founded Oceanside Realty in 1991, he has focussed his energies on customer service. Through his commitment to unsurpassed excellence in meeting his customers’ needs, Paul has succeeded in not only building clients, but in nurturing relationships that will last a lifetime. Oceanside Realty has the distinction of having the largest sales volume in the Wildwoods, and one of the largest in South Jersey. To handle this ever-growing number of serious buyers, Oceanside has three offices, located in Wildwood Crest, Diamond Beach and another in North Wildwood. Oceanside Realty’s proven ability to match developers with buyers has earned the company the reputation of attracting the best developers of New Jersey Shore real estate, which is why each location has an office dedicated to construction. Oceanside Realty’s status as the area’s preeminent leader in sales and rental volume gives its clients extensive exposure to seri-
Sail into Summer with the Winning Team!
A T L A N T I C C I T Y W E E K L Y ’S HOMES OF SOUTH JERSEY ®
Buying, selling, and renting a vacation property can be a daunting task, but Oceanside Realty is dedicated to providing a smooth experience for its customers. For nearly 20 years, Oceanside Realty has focused on strengthening its business and personal relationships with clients and community alike. In fact, Oceanside’s personalized approach is what sets it apart from most industry franchises. Team members are dedicated to building clients for life and strive to offer a pleasant and rewarding encounter that will be remembered long after the transaction is complete. Oceanside’s three office locations have recently been expanded to handle their ever increasing volume of sales and vacation rentals. Additional client services have been implemented and include wireless Internet, scan, fax and copy capabilities at no charge. When you are ready to sell, purchase or rent a shore home, call the Realtors dedicated to meeting your needs. Oceanside Realty “Building Clients for Life.”
Foxmoor Homes
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f you’ve always dreamed of living at the Jersey Shore, then Foxmoor Homes definitely has a home for you! From luxury townhomes in Little Egg Harbor and resort-style active adult villas in Absecon, to single-family homes all over central and southern New Jersey, Foxmoor has life at the Jersey Shore covered. Foxmoor Homes, a locally owned and run company in Galloway Township, has been building condominiums, town homes and single-family homes for over 14 years. Known for building quality homes in intimate neighborhoods, Foxmoor offers homes that are affordable and appealing. The bottom line: Foxmoor builds homes and communities that rival their national competitors in quality, but without the hefty price tags. Comfortable homes, great communities and amazing locations — details like these are the difference between Foxmoor Homes and everybody else. For more information visit www.FoxmoorHomes.com or call 609 338-8782.
ATLANTIC CITY WEEKLY’S HOMES OF SOUTH J E R S E Y ®
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Farley & Ferry
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roker-salesperson eileen Barker, known throughout the area as the “Boardwalk Barker,” specializes in the Island’s waterfront and beach properties, including condos, luxury homes and investments. She has been the recipient of the New Jersey Association of Realtors Circle of Excellence Award for numerous years, and has worked as a city planner in Englewood, N.J., and an environmental planner in North Carolina. Kate Dwyer and Jennifer Bergman have more than 20 years of sales experience. They specialize in the Downbeach area and the fast-moving Atlantic City market. Eileen says that working at Farley & Ferry Realty, Inc. gives her access to the hottest market trends. Whether your investment is your primary residence, vacation condo or an apartment complex, it is Eileen’s challenge to ensure her clients have financial security for the future. Ventnor Office: 5215 Atlantic Ave. 609 822-1836 Margate Office: 7802 Atlantic Ave. 609 822-7161 Eileen Barker, Kate Dwyer & Jennifer Bergman
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A T L A N T I C C I T Y W E E K L Y ’S HOMES OF SOUTH JERSEY ®
Alliance Homes
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l l i a n c e H o m e s , o w n e D a n D o p e r ate D by John Kirkenir and Ed Crowley, stands for unsurpassed integrity in community development and semicustom home building. Together, the co-managers bring over 50 years of experience in construction, marketing and finance to the creation of new home neighborhoods. Hundreds of homes have been built under Kirkenir and Crowley. The company’s history is rich in satisfied homebuyers and awards. (Visit www.AllianceHomesOnline.com to view a list of Alliance’s awards). Alliance has just opened its latest community, Wellington Estates of Galloway in Galloway Township. With 15 lots to finish, Alliance should have this community completed by Fall 2008. Kirkenir and Crowley have established high company standards that will guarantee your family a pleasant experience with Alliance Homes and its dedicated staff, as together you build a beautiful new home. Alliance Homes, LLC 897 Route 130 East Windsor, NJ 08520 Phone: 609 426-0804 Fax: 609 426-9240
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It’s Getting Easier to Be Green
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ER M I T T H E F R Og S A Id , “I T ’S N O T E A S Y bEIN g green.” For homes, being “green” is getting easier every day. but what is a green home? It’s one that uses less energy, water and natural resources; creates less waste; and is healthier and more comfortable to live in. Specifically, these homes have lower energy and water bills, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, and less susceptibility to mold, mildew and other indoor toxins. This is accomplished in part by taking advantage of natural sunlight, rainwater run off, treed lots and using products with recycled content and products that cut energy consumption. The popularity of building green is helping reduce the costs of products associated with more environmentally conscious homes. Some sources indicate a more energy-efficient home may cost only 3 to 5 percent more to build than a traditional home. This small premium is recuperated in energy-cost savings within the first several years, delivering a return on the initial investment and the satisfaction of knowing you’re preserving the environment. For existing homes, Low Impact Living (www.lowimpactliving.com) has an Environmental Impact Calculator that considers a home’s overall environmental impact and suggests updates for minimizing it. At www.zoeshield.com, a calculator located on the “save money” page will figure your savings from replacing older windows with ones incorporating the technology found in advanced glazing systems such as Zo-e-shield. “Windows are a practical home improvement that can reduce a home’s environmental burden by improving energy efficiency,” said Jeff Williams, of Weather Shield Windows & doors, a leading manufacturer. “They also help improve livability by drawing in natural daylight and improving air quality.” Windows’ composition and placement in a home also can affect energy usage. In warmer climates, locating windows away from the most direct sunlight will help keep a home cooler. In cooler climates, windows on the sunny side of a home will help reduce heating loads. If your home is designed for passive heating/cooling, you’ll want windows that allow maximum sunlight into a home — windows without low-emissivity coatings (Low E) that reflect sunlight. You’ll also want to consider wall, roof and flooring materials that absorb the sun’s heat during the day and release it gradually as temperatures cool. Passive heating/cooling is not feasible for many new or existing homes. For these green homes, today’s most advanced windows incorporate features to minimize energy consumption. Warm-edge spacer systems that affix the two panes of insulated glass together help reduce the heat gained or lost through the window while minimizing glass condensation. Low E coatings on windows’ glass dramatically reduce solar heat gain and filter harmful UV rays. Inert gas-filled airspaces further insulate against heat/energy transference. by adding a third pane of glass, energy efficiency multiplies further. The combination of these components, as found on Zo-e-shield, can cut energy costs by as much as 30 percent compared to standard dual-insulated glass. green homes also incorporate products made in environmentally conscious ways. Wood windows, for example, can be made of wood from Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)-certified
Choosing the right windows is one way to make a home more environmentally friendly.
forests. Vinyl windows may include recycled manufacturing waste. green products also use low-emitting volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and may carry third-party certifications verifying environmentally responsible production. Many manufacturers post their environmental positions or products’ environmental attributes on their Web sites to help homeowners identify which businesses have an eye on environmental preservation. As the green building and remodeling trend continues, more homebuyers may wonder how to determine a prospective home’s greenness. green-built homes are not the same as the ’70s “earth homes” built into hillsides. Today’s green homes are in mainstream developments and typically blend with the traditionally built house next door. National certification programs, such as LEEd for Homes and the National Association of Homebuilders’ National green building Program, will also help identify truly green homes. Certified projects receive points for the way they’re constructed. For example, homes can earn points for proper placement of windows for allowing daylight in, providing views through the perimeter of the building, and ventilating the structure, as well as using windows with lowemitting paints and coatings. Choosing to build a green home or remodel in an environmentally friendly way truly is becoming easier. Perhaps one day even Kermit will say, “It’s easy being green.” For more information on green building, visit: zoeshield. com/weathershield, weathershield.com, green building Council www.greenhomeguide.org/, and the National Association of Home builders www.nahbgreen.org. ATLANTIC CITY WEEKLY’S HOMES OF SOUTH J E R S E Y ®
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Outdoor Living
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HEN THE WEATHER’S WARM, WE NATURALLY turn to the outdoors for entertaining, relaxing, cooking and dining. The spaces where we gather outside are becoming increasingly convenient and as rich in comfort and detail as the interior of our homes. Following are three trends for creating useful and pleasant outdoor rooms. • Amenity-rich kitchens. The possibilities for outdoor kitchens extend legions beyond a basic grill and sink. These kitchens can have just as many options as your interior one, if not more. Unbound by plumbing, walls and doors, you’re free to design an outdoor kitchen without restrictions. To fully enjoy your entertaining experiences, consider elements that make Extend your living space to the outoutdoor cooking doors with new trends such as innoas convenient as vative composite decking. possible. Seek out durable, mold-resistant, weather-proof cabinets with easyto-clean countertops that allow you to store your dishes, cookware and utensils right where you’ll be cooking. You’ll spend more time with your guests, instead of running back and forth to the kitchen. • All-weather electronics. It’s now possible to watch the big game or take in a movie out on your deck. New weather-proof electronics are far superior to earlier models in both design and durability. You can choose from flat-panel LCD high-definition televisions that are designed for permanent outdoor use, or go with pop-up installations that hold plasma TVs. For those who prefer to hear rather than see their speakers, a popular choice in outdoor electronics is surround-sound speakers that blend with the environment by posing as outdoor components, such as rocks or terra-cotta planters. • Design-savvy elements. To create a sense of connection between indoor and outdoor areas, designers are beginning to consider exterior rooms in the overall floor plans of houses. Breaking down visual barriers between the spaces will make a house feel larger. One way to accomplish this is to install exterior railings that use clear panels instead of traditional balusters or spindles. These clear panels allow visitors to enjoy an unobstructed view even while seated. Railing systems like these can be seen at www.horizonrailing.com. Another method to increase the perception of flow between your interior and exterior rooms is to use similar materials in both locations. This extends the house to the outdoors. Implementing these trends can result in a fun, comfortable outdoor environment. 20
A T L A N T I C C I T Y W E E K L Y ’S HOMES OF SOUTH JERSEY ®
Coastal Designs
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oastal designs, located on shore road in Northfield, will help you create the perfect outdoor living space with its unique inventory of contemporary outdoor furniture. Everyone’s style and outdoor living space is different and Coastal Designs carries a large selection of top-tier patio and backyard furniture (from wicker and teak to rattan and aluminum) for you to choose from. The staff at Coastal Designs will help you pick out the right colors, patterns, textures, designs and accessories to fit your personal style so that you can express yourself through the creation of your own yard, garden or patio space.
Discover S.W. Florida
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aples is a polished and sophisticated city at the southern tip of Florida’s West Coast. Inspired by Italian stone and pastel architecture, and showcased with manicured lawns, banyan trees and lush bougainvillea, Naples ranges from grand beachfront estates to colorful gingerbread cottages to communities for golfing, boating and other interests. World class shoppers will enjoy outdoor shopping districts, luxurious department stores and lovely boutiques. Ave Maria University, located just outside of Naples, is going to be a fantastic community. The Philharmonic Center for the Arts is home of the Naples Philharmonic Orchestra and is the premier performing arts hall in Southwest Florida. Marco Island is a perfectly pre-planned community at the gateway to the 10,000 islands and the Everglades and boasts some of the best fishing in the world. It’s four miles of sugary white beach sand has been called the “Hawaii of the East.” For more information about properties in Naples, Fla., visit www.roetamagni.com.
ATLANTIC CITY WEEKLY’S HOMES OF SOUTH J E R S E Y ®
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Bella’s Beautiful Condos
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ith breathtakingly gorgeous panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Inlet waters, the Bella high-rise condominium lives up to its name. “Bella” means “beautiful” in Italian, and this luxury building sparkles from the contemporary lobby up to the top penthouse floors. Bella’s location, adjacent to the site of Revel’s casino development, which is currently under construction, has numerous benefits into the future. Revel plans to introduce new retail, dining, entertainment and beachfront amenities as part of its hotel. The project will also include a beach walkway to the enhanced additional beach frontage and renovation. Bella is a key residential project of the Scannapieco Development Corporation. The building was totally refurbished from its former use in 2005. Paula Celletti-Baron, V.P. of sales and marketing, says that Bella is unlike any other property in the local area. “This is real resort living,” she says. “Bella sets a new standard in housing. Our prices are fair, and we offer luxury for all our owners. The activity in this area of Atlantic City has increased home values.” The bright, airy lobby has a full-time staff at the front desk. The 200-unit Bella offers two condominium styles, each with two bedrooms and two full baths. Model “A” homes total 1,129 square feet of living space and occupy the four corners on each floor. Model “B” residences measure 1,060 square feet, and
L & Z Stone Supply
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t’s luxurious and sleek, strong and enduring, and more and more it’s a must-have in the modern kitchen or bathroom. It’s the elegant and rustic look of granite in countertops, vanities and flooring. Natural stone offers the amazing versatility to be both elegant and refined and also rustic and rugged looking, depending on the design. That versatility can be seen in the natural stone selection at L&Z Stone Supply in Pleasantville, which imports stone products from Italy, Brazil, Norway, Spain, India, Kenya, Turkey and more than 50 different other countries. L&Z Stone Supply carries an impressive collection of granite countertops and vanities as well as marble tiling and porcelain vanity bowls. It’s also a one-stop supplier of wooden cabinets (in oak, cherry and maple) for the kitchen or bath and stainless steel sinks, Jacuzzi surrounds, fireplace surrounds and a large variety of faucets and fixtures. L&Z Stone Supply, in business since 2004, has a simple philosophy: Cut out the middle man and bring the savings home to you, the consumer. L&Z craftsmen offer fast, reliable service with quick turnaround and satisfaction guaranteed. One of the most popular choices in modern design is granite. The stone is one of the hardest in the world and makes for an ideal countertop and is perfect for flooring and decorative elements. Polished granite maintains that high-gloss look for
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A T L A N T I C C I T Y W E E K L Y ’S HOMES OF SOUTH JERSEY ®
are the interior four units. Both have common standard amenities and an open, connected living-and-dining room space. However, each floor plan provides something unique to it. The decor is decidedly contemporary. Kitchens have a modern, slick appearance. Imported Italian woods and fixtures are standard in both units. The eight penthouses are located on the top two levels. Priced at $1.8 million, the four units on the 25th floor are fully furnished and provide upgrades on all amenities. There is also an indoor/outdoor pool, state-of-the-art fitness center, Pilates room and a massage therapist on call.
many years (forever really), even under the stress of kitchen knives, cutlery and cookware. It doesn’t scratch and heat does not affect it. Granite has been tested to withstand pots heated to 900 degrees without showing damage.
L&Z imports stone products from more than 50 countries. But it is also affordable and can instantly add value to a home. And since L&Z ships directly from production sites in high volume, it can offer economy as well as value. Granite comes in four finishes: Polished (shiny), honed (matte), flamed or brushed (textured). That allows granite to fit almost limitless design possibilities. There’s also a granite color for every taste, from Baltic red to almond, from orchid to blue, from peach to pitch black. Granite is a perfect substance for flooring inside and out, including sidewalks and can even be used for curbstones and garden benches. L&Z Stone is located at 980 Mill Rd. in Pleasantville. Stop in or call 813-2323 or visit them online at www.landzstone.com.
ATLANTIC CITY WEEKLY’S HOMES OF SOUTH J E R S E Y ®
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A T L A N T I C C I T Y W E E K L Y ’S HOMES OF SOUTH JERSEY ®