Jackie Scura’s A Guide to Morris County Real Estate and More! How To Save Your Home! Help For Homeowners Facing Foreclosure
Hidden Germs: 5 Places You May Not Be Looking
Market Watch!
Sales in Your Neighborhood
Q&A
With Jackie
Your Real Estate Questions Answered Here!
What Does Your Front Door Say? A Colorful Personality Test!
Homes
#1
The Re/Max Agent in New Jersey Fall/Winter 2011
Jackie’s Holiday Guide!
DIY or Hire a Guy? Simple Tips: Make Your Appliances Last Longer
Amazing Changes!
From Fixer-Upper to Dream Home!
Holiday Family Favorites From Jackie’s Table to Yours
There’s So Much to be Thankful for This Season! Jackie’s Thanks & Where to Donate & Volunteer for the Holidays
Market Keeping an Eye on Real Estate Watch in YOUR neighborhood! Are you wondering what’s been going on for the last 6 Months in your town? Check out the stats below! The market is still moving and sellers are getting great percentages of their asking price.
Boonton Active Listings
New Listings
Under Contract
Sold Listings
# of Listings
Average Price
# of Listings
Average Price
# of Listings
Average Price
# of Listings
122
$413,457
71
$406,946
32
$406,602
28
% of Average Avg. Days Asking Price on Market Price $404,136
100
95%
Boonton Township Active Listings
New Listings
Under Contract
Sold Listings
# of Listings
Average Price
# of Listings
Average Price
# of Listings
Average Price
# of Listings
130
$714,334
73
$639,027
30
$524,063
25
% of Average Avg. Days Asking Price on Market Price $555,604
65
93%
Denville Active Listings
New Listings
Under Contract
Sold Listings
# of Listings
Average Price
# of Listings
Average Price
# of Listings
Average Price
# of Listings
344
$475,567
221
$397,000
88
$401,195
85
% of Average Avg. Days Asking Price on Market Price $396,066
65
95%
Mountain Lakes Active Listings
New Listings
Under Contract
Sold Listings
# of Listings
Average Price
# of Listings
Average Price
# of Listings
Average Price
# of Listings
122
$1,041,565
77
$1,031,564
30
$1,037,284
31
% of Average Avg. Days Asking Price on Market Price $938,177
45
93%
Parsippany Active Listings
New Listings
Under Contract
Sold Listings
# of Listings
Average Price
# of Listings
Average Price
# of Listings
Average Price
# of Listings
643
$401,934
374
$393,708
159
$400,097
158
% of Average Avg. Days Asking Price on Market Price $385,326
84
95%
Want to chat LIVE with Jackie about Market Conditions? Tweet @JackieScura or post at Facebook.com/JackieScura on December 1st from12:00 to1:00 PM
Q&A with Jackie
Jackie Answers Your Real Estate Questions Q: I own a home already, and I was saving up Q: I just spent months looking for the perfect
some money to invest. Now that the stock market is doing so badly, I’m thinking about getting an investment property instead. How do I know if this is a smart move? Joe P, Parsippany
A:
This is a really good time for investors with cash in hand. One of the first things to ask yourself is what sort of outcome you want from your investment. If you want income now, a rental could be a great move. If you want a home that will grow in value and then be saleable down the road in order to pay for the kids’ college tuition, then you might want to consider a fixer-upper (assuming you have the vision or skills to remodel.) Rentals with proven rental histories are also very saleable, so you could have the best of both worlds.
Q: I was talking with my Mortgage guy and he
light fixtures for my house. I love what I got, but now my company is transferring me out of state and I have to sell my house. I’ve already bought a new home where the lights would fit perfectly. Can I take them with me when I move? Amy L, Mountain Lakes, NJ
A:
You can include or exclude whatever you want in the contract but, unless otherwise specified, things that are physically attached to the home are a part of the Real Estate deal. If you love your lights, then exclude them in the contract and replace them, or take them down & replace them with less expensive fixtures before even listing the home to save confusion. Keep in mind that those high-end touches can help to sell your home, though.
Q:
recommended an Adjustable Rate Mortgage. Aren’t I just discovered that I have asbestos in my those the bad loans that caused all of those defaults? house. What are the laws about remediation and do Can I trust him? Andy V, Boonton Twp, NJ I need to hire someone? Lisa N., Denville, NJ
A:
He might be offering you some good advice. It all depends on your circumstances. An Adjustable Rate Mortgage is cheaper than a Fixed Rate Mortgage on a month to month basis because the rate adjusts at a specified later date to an amount set by market conditions. It can only adjust by up to 2%, so if you start at 3%, then 5% after 3-5 years is still a very good rate. This loan often makes sense for buyers who feel they’ll be selling the home before the rate adjusts higher, or who know that their income will increase in the future, but want more buying power now.
A: Technically, you are allowed to remove it
from your own home, but the NJDEP doesn’t recommend this and neither do I. You could spread the particles all over yourself and your home. This is very dangerous. You’ll also need to disclose the fact that you had asbestos but didn’t professionally remediate it if you sell the home. Buyers won’t like that. Professionals use specialized equipment to capture the particles, which are too small for you to see, and then test the air for asbestos afterwards. Call me for recommendations!
Do you have a question you want answered right now?
Why not visit me at Facebook.com/JackieScuraSays or @JackieScura on Twitter!
Go right to NJ’s #1 Re/Max Agent for the Best Real Estate Advice!
Premier Properties
$749,900 Boonton Luxurious living in a gorgeous 6 BR, 4.1 Bath home in Boonton’s Park Section. 2 Story entry w/Palladian window, HW floors throughout first floor, soaring ceilings, open floorplan. Formal LR & DRs, Family Room w/FP opens to custom center island kitchen & offers skylights, 3 sets of French doors to Patio. In-Law/Au Pair Suite. Master Suite w dual sided FP btwn BR & Jacuzzi Bath. 3rd flr loft. Gorgeous, landscaped property w/bluestone patio & multi-stone patio. Full Basement ready to finish.
Single Family Homes For Sale “Any Time, Any Day, Dante Picks Up The Phone!”
- Jackie
$434,900 Parsippany 3 BR, 2.1 Bath Split w/dramatic open foyer, EIK w/stainless apps.
$439,900 Parsippany 4 BR, 2 Bath sprawling Ranch w/ hw floors, open floor plan, FP.
Exceptional service from a bank that understands your community • Mortgage programs tailored to your specific needs • Personalized service, local processing and underwriting ensures stress-free home buying • Mortgage pre-approvals let you shop for a home with a mortgage in place
$384,900 Parsippany 4 BR, 2.1 Bath w/Pergo flrs, EIK, Family Room, paver patio & drive..
$349,900 Denville 3 BR, 1.1 Bath Lakefront home in Lake Arrowhead. Double lot.
Dante Puorro Sales Manager
Office: (973) 258-9095 Cell: (973) 985-7233 Fax: (732) 559-9346 $475,000 Parsippany 4 BR, 3 Bath w/great location & Kitchen to die for. Fenced backyard.
$489,900 Parsippany 4 BR, 2.1 Bath immaculate bi-level. Spa-like Master Bath w/steam shower.
249 Millburn Ave. Millburn, NJ 07041
Would You Like to See Your Home Featured in the Next Issue of this Magazine?
Call Today! Now Taking Listings for 2012!
High Impact Re-Model Amazing This shows just how great an Changes! investment a Fixer-Upper can be! T
n he
:
Now!
Overgrown hedges were hiding the charm of this brick Cape Cod. New, perennial landscaping & fresh paint make it inviting for guests and a great place to come home to!
Now!
Now!
Th
Th
en
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This Dining Room already offered good light and space for entertaining, but with elegant panelled wainscoting, re-finished wood floors (which had been hidden under carpet) and a bold new paint-job, this room is ready for company!
en
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This Bath’s 1960’s style wasn’t so fashionable anymore. Gorgeous tilework, a marble topped vanity and fresh fixtures bring it beautifully up-to-date.
T
n he
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This Kitchen hadn’t been updated since the house was built in the 1960’s. The layout, with its excellent workflow and separate Dining Area/Family Room was just fine, but the old cabinets, appliances and counters were tired and begging to be refreshed.
What a difference! The Kitchen now offers the latest stainless appliances, gorgeous granite countertops, a decorative ceramic tile backsplash, new cabinets, fashionable recessed and pendant lighting and ceramic tile floors. The beautiful neutral color scheme brings it all together.
Now!
Is That Fixer-Upper a Gem In The Rough?
Jackie Shares Her Insights on What To Look for on Your House Hunt! • Does it have the space you’re looking for? Sometimes the current owners have
arranged things strangely and it’s hard to envision living there. However, if it has the right number of bedrooms and good room sizes, it’s worth taking a closer look.
• How is the home priced? If the sellers are
aware that their home is dated and have priced it accordingly, then you may get a real steal. Most homebuyers drastically overestimate the cost of renovations and don’t want to get involved in re-habbing a dated home. A little vision may bring you a great return on your investment.
• How are the house’s “guts?” Does it have
good plumbing, modern electric and a sound structure? Almost everything else is cosmetic. Completely gutting the Kitchen and Baths is less trouble than it sounds like if the pipes and wiring are ready to go once the new fixtures and fittings are added.
• What DON’T you like about it? If you’re
getting turned off by old wallpaper, shaggy carpet or some old appliances, then the problems aren’t that big. If there are oak floors under that shaggy carpet, a good layout and great light, then you’re already on your way to a dream home!
$399,900 Parsippany 3 BR. 2.1 Bath pristine Ranch. EIK w/ HW flrs, Fin. Basement w/half Bath.
$454,900 Denville 4 BR, 2Bath Bi-level on almost an acre. Many updates, wood floors.
$399,900 Mount Olive 4 BR, 2.1 Bath Colonial. A true showplace! Formal LR & DR, EIK.
“Marty is a Great Attorney!� - Jackie Martin D. Eagan Attorney at Law Real Estate Transactions $239,900 Rockaway Twp. 4 BR, 1.1 Bath cape with floor-toceiling brick FP in LR, large yard.
- Morris - Essex - Somerset - Union - Sussex
- Passaic - Bergen - Middlesex - Monmouth
$359,900 Parsippany 3 BR, 1.1 Bath Bi-level w/many updates. Great location!
$369,900 Parsippany 3 BR, 2 Bath Ranch. Newly refinished HW floors! Almost 1/3 acre!.
$384,900 Boonton Twp. 2 BR in gorgeous setting. .44 Acre yard! LR w/refinished HW flrs & FP
$224,500 Parsippany 2 Bedroom Lakefront in Rainbow Lakes. Newer Bath, lake views.
$325,000 Boonton 3 BR, 1,1 Bath charmer. HW flrs, New Kitchen. Over 1/4 acre yard.
52 Maple Avenue Morristown, NJ 07960 (973) 898-7300 x126 Marty@MartyEagan.com www.MartyEagan.com
$289,000 Hopatcong 4 BR, 2.1 Bath Bi-level w/refinished HW flrs, newer Andersen windows.
$199,900 Boonton 2 BR near downtown w/gleaming HW flrs, chestnut trim, large EIK.
$369,900 Boonton 3 BR, 2Bath w/reservoir views. HW frs, many updates. Formal LR & DR.
$200,000 Parsippany 2 BR Ranch. Fresh paint and new carpeting. LR w/stone FP. Poss. 3BR.
$309,900 Roxbury 4 BR, 3 Bath Bi-Level. LR w/dramatic vaulted clng. New Bath. Family Room.
$529,900 Parsippany 3 BR, 2.1 Bath Bi-Level. Double door entry. Family Room w/FP.
Wonder What Your Home is Worth? Go to www.MorrisCountyValues.com and Get a Custom Analysis in Your E-Mail in Just 30 Minutes! “Choose the right Title Company!”-
Jackie It’s YOUR choice who to use for title work. We save you money with:
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(848-5320)
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Boonton’s Renaissance: Why NOW is The Time
to Invest in Boonton’s Future
Photos ©syvwlch
Boonton is just 2.45 square miles, but it’s got so much to offer. Now that interest rates are low and so are home prices, it’s a great time to think about investing in Boonton’s exciting future. If you want to know more about where Boonton is going, then your best bet is to look at the Boonton Main Street organization and their progress in town. Boonton Main Street’s ultimate goal is to bring out Boonton’s full potential as a downtown and make it a destination on par with thriving locations such as Morristown and Summit. They’re working towards this through a number of community initiatives and a year-round calendar of fun events that make Boonton an even more entertaining place to live and visit. One of the best things about Boonton is that it offers a real, old-fashioned downtown, with an exciting Main Street full of businesses of all kinds. There is so much to do. A walk down Main Street will take you past a traditional New Jersey diner, acclaimed restaurants, fun and funky boutiques, antique stores, the historic Darress Theatre, the town Library, coffee shops, galleries, fun local pubs, and off-beat businesses like the new Culture Cabin where you can participate in everything from jewelry making to building with Legos! Community events and pride are the glue that brings the town together. Concerts in the park, a 5 gallery annual Art Walk, parades and classic car shows; there’s always somewhere to go and something to do. There are also many opportunities to get involved. The town offers 5 volunteer fire departments, civic organizations, church groups, an active historical society and a vibrant local arts scene. Great neighborhoods are also a big part of what makes Boonton special. In a hilly place like Morris County, the level lots of the Flats section and its peaceful Bergen County feel are a real treat. The historic Hill section is so convenient to the downtown and offers beautiful Victorian homes and local puddingstone walls for the history lover. The Park Section is so much like Mountain Lakes, but with a very affordable price point. Mature trees line the streets and a mix of Victorian, Colonial Revival, Tudor and modern homes makes it stunningly beautiful. Another of Boonton’s advantages is a great location and easy access to public transportation. Boonton offers convenient major highway access and Mid-Town direct buses and trains, but without being a boring “bedroom community” for commuters. This is a town where you can work all day in the City, take a relaxing train ride home and then have a nice walk to dinner, see a show at the Darress or enjoy live music at Sharkey’s. Boonton Schools are another strength. Under the leadership of Superintendant Christine Johnson, the whole district has been thriving for the past 3 years. Exciting new programs, above average test scores, acceptances to prestigious Universities and stateof-the-art computer labs have proven that Boonton Schools are a crowning jewel of the community. For More Information visit: BoontonMainStreet.org
First Fridays: Visit
Downtown Boonton the First Friday of every month for Late Hours at businesses and restaurants and different special events each month!
Your Home’s Persona lity
What Does the COLOR of your Front Door Say?
Color is a Universal language. When you choose a color for your front door it sends a message to you and your visitors. What kind of welcome are you looking for?
Red front doors are popular
in many cultures. Feng Shui recommends red for welcoming visitors. Red is a color of warmth and vibrant energy. In Western culture red doors respresent a safe haven.
Orange is warm
like red, but also unusual, happy and energetic. Orange projects a sense of adventure.
a sunny, fun-loving personality to your house, and can also symbolize the luxuriousness of gold. Yellow sends a cheerful, confident message.
Green in Feng Shui
Blue is a very popular
is a color representing the life cycle and growth. It’s also a color known for its soothing properties. It helps tie your home to its natural surroundings.
front door color because it represents so many comforting things. It’s the color of serenity, peace and protection. In the South, “Haint Blue” paint was traditionally used to ward off evil spirits.
White represents
purity and peace. Like black, it emphasizes other colors on and around the house. Neutral colors like white have a relaxed personality.
Purple is known as a
royal color in the West and, in Feng Shui, represents sprituality and meditation. Feng Shui practitioners consider it to be the only color that works for any position a front door is facing.
Yellow brings
Black is traditional and
simple, but very elegant. In Feng Shui, black is the color used to add stability. It grounds all of the other colors.
In Scotland a Red front door traditionally means “I paid off my mortgage!” What a colorful way to celebrate!
L D S O
L D S O
L D S O
IN UNDER A WEEK!
$439,900 Boonton 4 BR, 2.1 Bath pristine Park Section home. Gleaming HW floors, EIK.
L D S O
L D S O
$799,900 Boonton Township 4 BR, 3 Bath Colonial set on 1.78 acres w/heated in-ground pool.
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$279,900 Downtown Denville condo close to shops, restaurants, public trans.
$849,900 Boonton Set like a gem in the Park Section! Newer 5 BR, 4 Bath Queen Anne.
$629,900 Boonton Gorgeous 5 BR, 3 Bath colonial. 2 story Great Room w/FP. .42 acres.
D L O
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$169,900 Denville Solid 3 BR, 2 Bath home. Renovate to suit your needs. HW floors, Great yard.
S
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$649,900 Boonton Twp. 4 BR, 3.1 Bath riverfront custom Ranch on almost 2 acres. Upgrades!
$399,900 Jefferson Twp. 3 BR, 2.1 Bath lakefront home with 3 deeded boat slips.
O
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$499,900 East Hanover 4 Bedroom, 2.1 Bath Colonial. Clean as a whistle! Former model.
$699,900 Boonton Township 4 BR, 2.1 Bath custom home, renovated extensively 7 years ago. 1.73 ac.
S
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$574,900 Parsippany 4 BR, 2 Bath ranch with a private oasis of a backyard. Gorgeous trim. IG Pool.
$425,000 Parsippany 3 BR, 2 Bath Lakefront charmer on Rainbow Lake. New Baths!
How to Save Your Home: You Don’t Need to Face Foreclosure Alone
Over the past few years, more and more Americans are reaching a point where they can’t afford their mortgages anymore. This is a tragic event in anyone’s life and I believe that it’s important for everyone to know their options before a home reaches foreclosure. The most important advice I can give you is to act BEFORE you miss that first payment, or as soon as possible afterwards. Help is still available later, but the more time that goes by, the more difficult the situation becomes.You may not be in the best position right now, but it’s still your home and your life to control. This is the time to speak up.
First, call your lender. Explain the situation and see if they offer any options. The lender will lose money if they forclose, so it’s in their best interest to work with you. You might be able to get a temporary break on payments, extend the time you have to pay off the loan or even renegotiate the interest or principal on the loan.
The next thing to try is contacting the Government, and I don’t mean by “Occupying” Washington DC. The Federal Housing Administration is set up to help you and explain your options during this difficult and confusing time. They have programs for modifying loans, assisting unemployed homeowners and easing your move out of your home if other options fail.
The last piece of advice is to act quickly if you decide that you can’t, or don’t want to, stay in your home. It may still be possible to sell your home and leave on your own terms, negotiate a Short Sale to avoid foreclosure, or arrange a Deed In Lieu of Foreclose transfer with your lender. This last option will still harm your credit, but less than a foreclosure would have.
Don’t give up hope and know that you can always call me for advice. I have 25 years of experience and know the best mortgage experts in the area. I’m always happy to help.
Reach Out:
Call: the FHA Outreach Center at 1-800-CALL-FHA or use your TTY to call 1-800-877-8339 if you’re Speech or Hearing Impaired E-Mail: answers@HUD.gov.com Online: Get more information at http://answers.hud.gov
“Need a Mortgage Expert? Call Kate!”-
Jackie
You Found The Perfect Home . . .
Now Let Me Find You The Perfect Mortgage!
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Office: (973) 200-3245 Cell: (973) 650-5114
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***Mention This Ad and Get Your Appraisal Fee Waived!*** (maximum fee of $290)
Condos and Townhomes
Specializing in Condos & Townhomes in Morris County I can help you find your Dream Home! Call Today!
$174,900 Denville Condo with new carpet, AC, recessed lighting, lots of closet space.
$149,000 Parsippany Condo with new kitchen, new bath, lots of storage & more!
Dominique Scura Sales Associate
Re/Max First Choice Realtors cell: 973.219.8909
office: 973.335.4600 e-mail: Dominique.Scura@gmail.com www.shopmorriscountyhomes.com
Do you want great Real Estate Tips and News? $394,900 Mount Arlington 3 BR, 2.1 Bath detached Villa. First Floor Master Suite. EIK w/stainless appliances.Walk to train and clubhouse.
Go to Facebook.com/ ShopMorrisCountyHomes or follow me on Twitter @ShopNJHomes
$349,900 Hanover Twp. Beautiful 2 BR, 2 Bath townhome. LR w/ sliders to balcony, Formal DR.
- Jackie “The Expertise you need, the Service you deserve.”
“Need an Expert on Insurance? Call Elliot!”
Personal Home & Auto Insurance and all your Business Insurance Needs Elliot Gorman, Producer & Agency Principal
Business Insurance Planning Services, Inc. (973) 335-3816 | elliot@businessinsuranceplanning.com Fax: (973) 335-5860 | www.businessinsuranceplanning.com
Hidden Household Germs! It’s Disgusting, But Totally True!
Scientists have found that some keyboards had 5 times as many germs as the average toilet seat!
5 Places You May Not Be Looking
The Keyboard
The Remote Control & Game Controllers
How Often? Every 3 Months
Try: Dust Destroyer
Compressed Air from Staples. $13.99 for 2
E Coli? Staph bacteria? Computing can be dangerous if you don’t clean that keyboard with a damp cloth regularly! A can of compressed air can get the crumbs and pet hair out. It helps to always wash your hands before using the computer, too!
How Often? Every 3-4 Months Your Toothbrush
The Sponge
Lately there are all kinds of UV devices on the market for your toothbrush. Scientists agree that all you really need to do is let your toothbrush dry in an upright position and toss it after an illness, or at least every 3 to 4 months.
How Often? Once a Month
Your TV remote control and Video Game controllers may be the dirtiest things in your home! Take out the batteries and give it a good going over in the grooves with a microfiber cloth. Then relax and play knowing that the germs are gone!
Your Pillows
How Often? Once a Week
How Often? Every 6 Months
Clean the sponge? But isn’t it for cleaning? You’re picking up germs every time you clean and the moist environment helps them breed. You can run it through the dishwasher, or microwave your WET sponge on high for 1 minute. (A dry sponge WILL catch fire! Be careful!) These methods are 99% effective in removing bacteria!
Those soft, fluffy pillows can absorb a lot of sweat and oil from your skin while you sleep, which means bacteria as well as flatter pillows. Always use pillow covers between the case and the pillow and launder your pillows once or twice a year.
Did you know?After 2 Years of use, more than 1/3 of a pillow’s weight is made up of dead dust mites, their feces & your skin!
Premier Properties
$3,500,000 Hopatcong 5 Bedroom, 4.2 Bath Arts & Crafts lakefront estate. “Sleepless Hollow” is a one-of-a-kind home with a glamorous history full of Hollywood royalty. Stone and shingle exterior with turrets and terraces for taking in the gorgeous lakefront views. Magnificent quartersawn oak trim, paneling and floors. 5 Fireplaces, 18” thick stone walls, stained glass. Elegant Formal LR & DR, Great Room w/wall of windows overlooking the lake, Media Room. Miniature Movie palace style theatre w/ working curtains and projection booth. Theatre once used by Abbott & Costello to screen their own film! Gorgeous master suite with spa-like bath, In-Law/AuPair Suite. Boathouse with boat lift, kitchenette and bathroom. Large swathe of lakefront land w/beach.
$799,000 Boonton 7 Bedroom, 4.5 Bath Colonial with traditional style and elegance. Original wood floors, beautifully crafted moldings and many fireplaces throughout the home. Formal LR , Formal DR offers built-in corner china cabinets. Gourmet Kitchen with granite and limestone counters, Wolf Range, Breakfast Area. Dramatic 2 story Family Room(24x20) which offers views of beautiful Grace Lord Park from its wall of windows and double French doors to the Trex deck. Luxurious Master Suite and spa-like bath. LL Rec Room. Hardi Plank siding. .95 acre yard overlooking Grace Lord Park.
Home Burglarized & Ransacked! Jewelry Stolen! Property Damaged!
Don’t Let This Be Your Story! Call Security Direct and have them install a system, starting at just $99. Your local company, servicing Morris County for over 27 years
Frank Berman info@securitydirect.com 1-800-797-9934 www.securitydirect.com
Installations - Service - Central Station Monitoring
Why Call College Hunks for Junk Removal or Moving Services? Collegiate, friendly, uniformed professionals We do ALL the labor, loading, disposal & cleanup Always on time in our shiny orange and green trucks Up-front, all-Inclusive rates with no surprise charges
Call 1-800-586-5872 or book online at
www.CollegeHunks.com
to schedule a free, no-obligation estimate. Cannot be combined with any other offer. *No hazardous materials.
Commercial or Residential! oval of single items to total cleanouts Anything goes: furniture, appliances, debris & more!
Mention Jackie Scura to receive 10% OFF
Up to 60% of the items we remove are either donated or recycled. A portion of all proceeds donated to local scholarship programs. College Hunks Hauling Junk Franchises are independent licensees of CHHJ Franchising LLC. Franchise Opportunities Available: Call 1-888-935-8658.
DIY? or Hire a Guy? Putting Lights on Dimmers?
DIY! All you need to be able to do is turn off the breaker, remove the old switch and then attach your new dimmer to the colorcoded wires already installed in the wall. This can cost as little as $10, depending on the model of dimmer, while a pro would cost upwards of $50. Ask for help if you’re unsure about anything.
Building a new backyard fence?
Hire A Guy! Digging the holes for posts, measuring the length and width of the yard? These are easy. Getting it level, fastening it so it will last and observing yard boundaries are all skills that a pro will beat you at every day of the week. Save the sweat and strife and get ready to plant some flowers along the fence instead.
Ceiling paint that looks cracked all over?
Hire A Guy! This is more than a simple paint job. The paint will have to be stripped off, the drywall needs skimming over to look flat again and this probably takes more effort from you than it’s worth for the cost. Call Jackie if you need recommendations for great, affordable painters!
Squeaky stairs?
Could be DIY or hire a Guy! If you can get at the underside of the staircase, this can be as simple as driving in a few screws to secure a loose board. Larger fixes may require a pro, who can shore up the underside with additional pieces of wood.
Caulking your tub or windows?
DIY! This requires almost no tools. All you need is patience, a steady hand and a dry surface to work with. You can protect your bathroom’s drywall, keep out drafts and none of it even takes all that long! Be patient, though. Let the area to be caulked dry well before and after.
Holes in Drywall?
Could be DIY or Hire a Guy! This really depends on the size of the hole. A small hole is a simple repair that just requires a little cutting and spackling to complete. Larger repairs could include framing behind the hole and require more tools and finesse than the average beginner can handle.
10 Tools Every Home Should Have!
1. Ratcheting Bit Screwdriver: Drives in screws with much less work! 2. Crescent Wrench: Plumbing will be a snap! 3. Hammer: Better than a shoe. 4. Needle Nose Pliers: Twists in tight spots 5. Power Drill: Install anything! 6. Hacksaw: Cuts through anything!
7. Razor Blade Knife: Sharp and precise. Great for drywall 8. Bubble Level: hang pictures like a pro! 9. Tape Measure: Plan ahead! 10. WD-40: Squeaky hinge? Stuck bolts? They all need this.
Ask Jackie Your Fixer-Upper Questions at Facebook.com/ JackieScuraSays or @JackieScura on Twitter Remember that any project can be dangerous if you’re unfamiliar with the tools and process. This is theoretical advice, and in no way a complete how-to for you!
Did You Know . . .
Your Appliances Can Last Longer!
Oven: Does your oven seem to be heating up
more slowly? More than 20% of your oven’s heat can escape if the door isn’t sealed well. Open the door and look for the rubber gasket that runs around the edge of the door. Feel the gasket and look it over for dents and dings that could leak heat. See if there are any noticable gaps from the outside as well. You can get a new gasket from PartSelect.com or hire an appliance repairman. Both are much cheaper than a new oven!
Vacuum: Your vacuum needs air to live,
and changing its bag at least once a month will keep it from getting choked by dust and burning out the motor. (You may need to do this more often if your pets shed a lot!) It’s also important to keep the filters clean. Wash or replace them every two months for optimal cleaning. Belts are also a consideration in many models. These rotate the beater bar, which sweeps up the dirt. If the beater is making a vibrating noise it’s time for a replacement. Dryer Vent Kit: $19.99 at Home Depot
Dryer:
Did you know that dryer lint can cost you $300 extra a year in energy costs, shorten the life of your dryer and, even worse, make you one of 12,700 residential fires a year caused by dryers? First, clean out your lint trap after every cycle, then buy a dryer cleaning kit with a long, flexible vacuum attachment and regularly suction out the escaped lint. Check the exterior vent, too. Visible lint can point to a build-up between your dryer and the outside.
Refrigerator: Cleaning helps your
refrigerator last longer by reducing strain on its parts and cuts the energy it uses by up to 6%! The coils are down by the ground and collect pet hair and dust bunnies. Get a coil cleaning brush from your local hardware store, unplug the fridge, move it away from the wall, and then brush the coils clean and vacuum up the dirt. Do this twice a year and make that refrigerator last! Coil Brush: $9.99 at Home Depot
Dishwasher: Is your dishwasher working
just fine, but a damaged rack is leaving rust spots on your dishes? You can buy a a repair kit with cushioned caps for the top of the tines and a color matched paint-on sealer for damaged, rusted spots. It’s also possible to buy a whole new rack, or most other parts of an appliance, through the many appliance part websites online. New door springs or a new front panel are much cheaper than a new dishwasher. Try PartSelect.com. Enter the Model # and you’re on your way to a “like new” dishwasher!
Washing Machine: Does your
washing machine do a little dance in the middle of its cycle? That vibration is bad for the drum and will shorten the life of the machine. Rock the machine back and forth until you figure out which side is too short and then turn the leveling feet until it sits solidly on the floor. You can also keep it cleaner on the inside by running an empty hot water wash with 1 cup of distilled vinegar once a month to clear away potential clogs.
Did you Know? The earliest washing machine was invented in 1797 by James King.
Jackie’s Local Hot Spots Have a Great Time Supporting Local Businesses
DePasquale | The Spa Powder Mill Plaza Route 10, Morris Plains
There’s not a Salon on the East Coast as high-end as DePasquale. My stylist Natasha has been cutting & coloring hair for almost 20 years, and she is an artist. She can look at you and instantly decide the best colors and styles. The atmosphere at DePasquale is so soothing, they treat every customer like family and their cappucino and sandwiches are amazing!
Present This Ad to receive an offer “Too Sweet to Refuse!” A Complimentary Homemade Dessert for 2!
$799,000 Boonton Township 4 BR, 2.2 Bath Colonial on gorgeous .56 Acre lot w/heated in-ground pool & jacuzzi. 2 story, light filled foyer, LR w/HW floors. Family Rm/DR combo w/floor-to-ceiling FP, & sliders to deck. Gorgeous courmet Kitchen w/stainless appliances, center island w/breakfast bar, 6 burner stove, warming drawer, granite counters, wine fridge, breakfast area w sliders to deck and door to pool area. Master BR Suite w/vaulted ceiling, huge WIC, private porch and M Bath w/jacuzzi.
$525,000 Parsippany 4BR, 3 Bath freshly remodeled home. All new Baths, gleaming HW floors, new kitchen w/stainless apps, granite cntrs. Large lot.
$699,000 Rockaway Twp. 4 BR, 2.1 Bath custom Colonial. Grand double door entry to foyer w/16’ ceiling. Family Room w/18’ ceiling, walls of windows.
For More Information, or to Schedule a Private Showing Call Jackie at (973) 335-4600
$925,000 Boonton Township 4 BR, 4 Bath Colonial on gorgeous 1.64 Acre lot. 2 story Foyer, Gourmet Kitchen, Master Suite w/tray ceiling and Jacuzzi tub.
$799,000 Mountain Lakes 5BR, 4 Bath Colonial. Beautifully built w/abundant windows, Gourmet Kitchen, finished Basement w/full granite top wet bar.
$499,900 Boonton Twp. 3 BR, 3 Bath Spanish Mission home with a contemporary flair. Central fieldstone FP, beamed ceilings, fully fenced IG Pool.
Brrrrrrrrr! Cold?
Tired of snow, ice, frozen pipes? I have a solution for you! Head South to Florida! Call me for a Retirement Home, “Snowbird� Hideout or Seasonal Rental. I AM YOUR Florida Connection! Lots of Oceanfront properties, priced better than ever!
Call: Charlene Cushing Singer Realty Associates Florida Properties
(561) 543-2400 | ccatpru@aol.com See My Listings at charlenesinger.com
$550,000 Randolph 4 BR, 3 Bath updated Custom Contemporary with new moldings and high-end updates throughout. Kitchen w/ pull-outs in cabs, luxurious new Baths, 1 acre of land.
$599,900 Parsippany 5 BR, 4 Bath Custom Contemporary. Many upgrades & high-end updates. Gourmet EIK w/skylights. 2nd floor Great Room. Master BR Suite w/jacuzzi.
$649,900 Boonton Twp. 4BR, 2.1 Bath Colonial with Early American style. A true Mother/Daughter with separate Suite attached by breezeway.
“These are my carpet experts!”-
Jackie See Our Coupon on the Back for 10% Off!
Expert Commercial & Residential Don Tanella, Owner Call 973-334-6442
• Carpet Cleaning • Tile & Grout • Upholstery Cleaning & Cleaning Sealing • Hardwood Floor • Drapery Panel Recoating Cleaning
• Marble Honing • Carpet, Pad & Staple Rip-Up • Odor Removal • Office Cleaning & Maintenance
It’s The Season For Saying Thank You! Life is all about being grateful for what you have and giving back to others; especially during this time of year.Thank you to all my Friends, Family & Clients! You’ve given me so much to be thankful for! I’ve always believed that if you love what you do and do what you love, then success will follow. I love getting to know all of you and working in such great communities every day!
-Jackie
Giving is better than receiving, and there’s no better time to give than the
Holidays. Here are a few places that could use your donations in order to spread the cheer this season! Whether you give time or money, you’ll be getting back the gift of helping your neighbors! Market Street Mission 9 Market Street, Morristown, NJ 07960 (973) 538-0431
Morris County Interfaith Food Pantry 540a West Hanover Ave. Morristown, NJ 07960 (973) 538-8049 Open for Donations: MondayThursday from 9:00-4:30
Parsippany Emergency Food Pantry Parsippany Community Center, 1130 Knoll Rd. Lake Hiawatha, NJ 07034 (973) 263-7163
Are You Feeling the Financial Crunch? Families in Need: Call Today to RSVP for Jackie’s:
Complimentary Thanksgiving Dinner In a Bag!* * While Supplies Last
Please Call (973) 335-4600 to R.S.V.P.
Jackie’s Holiday Family Favorites! From Our Table to Yours!
Jackie’s Famous Rice Pudding
Our Favorite Beef Tenderloin with Mustard & Horseradish Sauce: Sauce:
Try Casillero del Diablo Chardonnay! $9.79 at Bottle King
1/2 Gallon Whole Milk 1 Cup Rice 1 Cup Sugar 1 Cup Heavy Cream 2 Eggs 1 Tsp. Vanilla Cinnamon
Put milk, rice & sugar in a large pot and bring to a boil. Simmer covered for 55 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes. In a blender, mix together heavy cream, eggs and vanilla. Pour cream mixture slowly into pot on flame. Stir until thickened. Pour into a glass pan, sprinkle with cinnamon and then chill the pudding for a couple of hours before serving
1 Cup Sour Cream 3 Tbsp. Dijon Mustard 2 Tbsp. Prepared Horseradish Sauce: Whisk all ingredients in a small bowl. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve. Tenderloin: Tenderloin: Coarsely grind all peppercorns in a 2 Tsps. each/black,white & spice grinder or blender. Transfer pepper to bowl & green peppercorns add salt. Whisk mustard, butter & parsley in medium 2 Tsp. Coarse salt bowl to blend and then rub all over tenderloin. 3 Tbsp. Dijon mustard Roll tenderloin in peppercorn mixture, coating 1/4 stick butter (room completely. Preheat oven to 450F, place tenderloin temperature) on rack set in shallow baking pan, roast until meat 1 cup fresh Italian Parsley thermometer inserted into center registers 130F for (loosely packed) rare; about 35 minutes. Tranfer roast to platter. 2 Lb. Beef Tenderloin Let stand 10 minutes, cut roast into slices, arrange on platter and serve with sauce.
Try Kaiken Malbec! $8.99 at Bottle King
Beat The Holiday Bloat with Dane
A typical holiday meal is over 5,000 calories! Here are a few tips that will help you enjoy your meal without guilt & regrets!
Train With Dane Personal Training
973-908-9399
• Don’t get stuffed with stuffing. Fill up on turkey and greens. • Skip the eggnog: 1 Glass = 350 calories • Take a family walk between courses.You’ll have a great time and a brisk walk can be a quick way to burn 100 calories. • Watch your alcohol intake. 1 mixed drink has over 250 calories. • Divide leftovers with friends and family.
If you have questions, or want more tips, visit me at: Facebook.com/DaneGarnonPlatinumFitness or Twitter @DaneGarnon
“Ihis is the right moving company!”
- Jackie
Don’t Get Bounced Around, Come to the Padded Wagon
“Movers, Not Shakers” • Moving and Storage • Specializing in Fine Art & Antiques • Local, Long Distance & International Service • Commercial Moves & Mechanical Installation
Wow! Imagine vacationing everyday at home in your own cabin on Rainbow Lake. Parsippany has so much to offer! Who would think that you can get an Adirondacks style cabin in the heart of Morris County?
• Full Service Modern Warehouse Facility • Packaging, Crating & Art Hanging Service
“Carolyn is so creative! She’ll help you decide!” - Jackie
Specialists in the Fine Art of Moving Since 1953
2 Cranberry Road Parsippany, NJ 07054 www.paddedwagon.com
FOR ALL YOUR IMPRINTED APPAREL NEEDS
www.davieslakesideprinting.com e-mail:
Get 10% Off of Your Next Order!
“Need an Expert on Real Estate Law? Call Bernie!”
973-335-5055 Jackie’s Customers Receive: 25 free boxes, or 1 hour of travel time
- Jackie
Bernard J. Schulte, Esq. PC Specializing in Real Estate Law in Morris County for 15 Years. 1,000s of transactions successfully closed. 79 Old Cherry Hill Road Parsippany, NJ 07054 p. 973.394.1212 f. 973.394.1214
Have a Happy Holiday
with Jackie’s Event Guide!
The Stickley Museum At Craftsman Farms in Parsippany Holiday Trunk Show Weekends, Nov 25–27, Dec. 3–4, Dec. 10–11 11 a.m.–4 p.m. The highly anticipated 4th Annual Trunk Show, featuring a variety of finely crafted gift items, kicks off at 9 a.m. on Friday, November 25 with a member’s preview and then opens to the public from 11 a.m.to 4p.m. that same day. Holiday Open House Weekends December 3–4 & December 10–11 11 a.m.–4 p.m. December 19 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Special Kids Day Open House: Dec. 10th The Log House will be beautifully adorned with period decorations for the annual Open House. Visitors are invited to stroll at their own pace, enjoy music, and hot cider and cookies. Be sure to visit the Trunk Show while you are there! 973-540-1165
Denville Chamber of Commerce Annual Holiday Parade
Sunday, November 27, 2:00pm–4:00pm Come out with your families to see all of the floats, characters, dignitaries, bands, fire trucks and welcome Santa to town.Visit with Santa after parade at Santa Land. Location : McCarter Park down Broadway & Diamond Spring Road to Santa Land
Mount Tabor Annual Holiday Sale and Cookie Walk
At the Bethel, Trinity Park, Mount Tabor NJ November 18: 5–8 p.m., November 19: 10a.m.–4 p.m., November 20: 12–3 p.m. Handcrafted gifts with a vintage flavor & a delicious variety of home-baked cookies. Call 973-586-1564 for information. Go to www.mounttabornj.org for directions. Boonton Main Street
Boonton Township Historical Society
December 2, 3, 10 Boonton Main Street, Inc. will celebrate Victorian style for the 4th year. Horse drawn carriage rides, Open Houses, Sweepstakes, Gorgeous Window Displays. info@BoontonMainStreet.org or (973) 257-9107
December 3rd from 1–3 p.m. An old fashioned Valley Farm Christmas is planned paying special tribute to 1930’s, ‘40’s and ‘50’s holiday traditions and décor. Oscar A. Kincaid Home of History, 591 Powerville Road. 973-263-0907
Victorian Holidays
Holiday Museum Open House
Boonton Fire Department’s Annual Christmas Parade
Saturday, November 26th starting at 1 p.m. The parade will head down Main Street to “Santa Land.” Stay afterwards for a fun-filled FREE day that will include a petting zoo, pony rides, train ride, cookies, juice, hot chocolate and much more! 3 p.m. Raffle for children with more than 75 prizes! For more information visit: www.BoontonFD.org
First Night Morris County
December 31st Celebrate the New Year with Food, Festivities, Music and Fireworks; all within easy distance of the Morristown Green. Fun for All Ages! For more info visit: www.FirstNightMorris.com
The Shakespeare Theatre of NJ
Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol
December 1st–January 1st Neil Bartlett’s unique and inventive adaptation of A Christmas Carol for the stage. When it was last staged in 2007, audiences were thrilled by its ingenious new approach to this timeless holiday tale. This delightful, funny and haunting morality tale is always beautifully touching. For more information visit: www.ShakespeareNJ.org
Re/Max First Choice,1160 Route 46 W, Parsippany, NJ 07054
Presorted Standard US Postage Paid West Caldwell, NJ 07006 Permit #1011
Jacqueline Scura
First Choice Realtors 1160 Rt 46 West Parsippany, NJ 07054 973-335-4600
Jackie
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Do you want to see your home in this magazine?
Call Jackie for a Complimentary Market Analysis on Your Home!
Nick Bertuglia Painting
Phone: (973) 641-8033
Action Carpet Care & Maintenance Co. Quality Doesn’t Cost - It Pays! Phone: (973)334-6442 www.actioncarpetcleaningofnj.com www.mycarpetcleaningparsippany.com
See Our Ad Inside for Services Offered!
Free Estimates H.E.D.S Landscaping
Business: (973)334-6442 Cell: (973)945-0546 Leaf & Gutter Clean Up, Plantings, Mulch, Tree Work, Trimming Bushes & General Maintenance No Job Is Too Small!
Each Office Independently Owned and Operated. Information Deemed Reliable, But Not Guaranteed. If Your Home is Already Listed With Another Realtor, Please Disregard This Notice