A Guide to Morris County Real Estate & More
Jackie Scura’s Jackie’s
Off The Beaten Path
Gift Guide
Fall/Winter 2013
homes 41 Years on Oak Road
The Story of Our Cover Property!
2014 Market Predictions
Attract
Love, Luck, Health & Wealth to
Your Home! Dozens of Household Tips & Tricks! 46 Oak Road in Boonton Twp. Learn More Inside!
Plus Hot
Listings in Your Town!
Spotlight Property
$699,000 Boonton Enchanting 4 Bedroom, 4.1 Bath Tudor home
set like a gem in Boonton’s beautiful Park Section. Enter through a hedge lined brick pathway. Venetian plaster walls and chestnut trim throughout. Foyer w/HW floor, whimsically carved staircase. LR w/ custom fireplace featuring ornate wood mantel. Formal DR. Family Room w/skylit meditation area. Sun Room overlooking Koi pond & Pool. Den offering walls of windows & built-in Bar. Gorgeous Kitchen w/ granite, wood cabs, brick accent wall, Pantry. 1st Flr Study & Powder Rm. MBR Suite w/bright airy Dressing Room, gorgeous views, Luxury Bath w/granite double vanity, stall shower w/rainfall showerhead. Hall Bath w/elegant tilework, stained glass. 3 cedar closets. 2nd BR w/built-in dressers. 3rd Floor w/2 BRs, Full Bath w/clawfoot tub. Finished Basement w/storage galore, Full Bath, Laundry. 2 Car attached Garage. Heated IG Gunite Pool w/spa. Koi Pond. Perfect privacy & landscaping make this home your ideal retreat.
• 4 Bedrooms
• In-Ground Pool
• 4.1 Baths
• Koi Pond
• 2 Car Attached Garage
• Year Built: 1932
• Brick & Stucco Exterior
• Taxes: $16,215
• .47 Acres
A Letter from Jackie This Is The Season For Giving and Gratitude! One of the greatest things about my job is that it gives me the opportunity to give back. I recently took on the listing of a man who was in complete despair after a period of unemployment. He was on the verge of losing his home and felt like he was losing his life along with it. He felt very alone. First, we began the process of dealing with his bank to start the Short Sale process. This is time consuming, confusing and it’s what we were there for as Realtors. A Short Sale was exactly what he needed to turn his life around financially. But Real Estate isn’t just about sales - it’s about people - so we needed to help him, too. We all scrambled to find him the resources he needed to get back on his feet in the meantime. We located all the local food banks and social service agencies we could, discussed all his options and gave him the support he needed to feel hope and control again. He got back on track and found a new job right away! It was amazing to see how much it meant to him to get that support from us and his community and how it improved his life immediately. You’re going to be seeing a lot of fundraisers and food drives this time of year. Please remember how important these safety nets are when so many people are one paycheck away from financial disaster. Food banks can make the difference between a nutritious dinner and nothing at all. Life is all about being grateful for what you have and giving back to others, and that goes double for this time of year!
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 food or money, you’ll be getting back the gift of helping your neighbors!
Market Street Mission 9 Market Street, Morristown, NJ (973) 538-0431
Morris County Interfaith Food Pantry 540a West Hanover Ave. Morristown, NJ (973) 538-8049 Open for Donations: Mon. - Thurs. from 9:30-4:30
Parsippany Emergency Food Pantry Parsippany Community Center, 1130 Knoll Rd. Lake Hiawatha, NJ (973) 263-7163
Everyone Should Have a chance at a wonderful thanksgiving dinner! Families in Need: Call Today to R.S.V.P. for Jackie’s Complimentary Thanksgiving Dinner In a Bag!* Please Call (973)
* While Supplies Last
335-4600 to R.S.V.P.
$725,000 Boonton Twp. 4 Bedroom. 3.1 Bath Colonial offering peace, privacy and luxury. HW floors throughout 1st
Floor. LR w/crown molding, columns to formal DR. Center island Kitchen w/granite, sliders to deck, bright breakfast area. MBR Suite w/cathedral ceiling & spa-like Bath. Walk-out Bsmt with mother/daughter possibilities. Deck, patio, 2.1 Acres.
$329,900 Denville
Totally remodeled 3 BR, 1.1 Bath home. All new Kitchen & Baths!
$314,900 Rockaway Twp.
Updated 3 BR creampuff w/HW floors, Kitchen w/granite. Cul-de-sac!
$299,900 Parsippany
4 BR, 2 Bath Cape w/Formal LR & DR. fenced & ladscaped yard w/deck.
$850,000 Parsippany The Builder’s own 4 BR, 3.1 Bath luxury home! 24’ high Foyer. LR w/soaring ceiling, skylights & walls of windows. Formal DR w/elegant trim. Family Room w/FP & built-in arched bookshelf. Gourmet center island EIK w/ granite, sliders to deck. MBR Suite w/WIC, cathedral ceiling. Fin. Bsmt. w/Rec Room, Guest Room, Bath. Large deck.
Q. Why Do I Need a Real Estate Attorney? A. My role in your transaction is to be your personal expert on your contract and your rights under that contract. When you sign your name to those hundreds of lines of terms and conditions, I want you to understand what they mean for you as a buyer or seller. I have practiced Real Estate Law for over 15 years, and closed 1,000s of transactions successfully. Trust me to guide you through this very important event in your life. Call me with any questions!
Bernard J. Schulte, Esq. PC 79 Old Cherry Hill Road Parsippany, NJ 07054 p. 973.394.1212 f. 973.394.1214
Jackie Says: “Do you need a true expert on Real Estate Law? Call Bernie Schulte! I can’t recommend him highly enough!”
J ac k i e S c u r a’ s 2014 Real Estate Forecast
Why 2014 is Going to rock . . . If you know me, you know that I love the fast pace of working in real estate. I hate waiting! Well, for a while there, it felt like the local real estate market was moving in slow motion. This was frustrating for everyone - not just me. Then, when things finally started to improve a couple of years ago, it was steady, but still slow. I’m so happy to finally be able to say that the fast pace has returned and our local market is going to rock in the new year! Here’s what you need to know to keep this rapidly accelerating market from leaving you behind!
. . . For Sellers: One of the major upward influences on our market locally has been a drastic shortage of new listings. With fewer homes on the market and interest rates on the rise, buyers aren’t risking their chance at getting a dream home at a great rate. Competition is strong and it’s common to see fast sales at asking price for the first time in years! In Morris County, the number of homes on the market in September of 2013 is almost 17% lower than it was in September of 2012, while the number of homes that sold and went under contract rose by a stellar 21% each! This is especially impressive when you consider that last year’s market was already comparitively healthy! This is also a great time for sellers because of an enormous drop in foreclosed and short sale listings. At the bottom of the market in 2009, a shocking 26% of mortgaged homeowners owed more than their homes were worth. Over this past Summer, that figure dropped to 14.5% and it will be even lower by the time you’re reading this! This means sellers don’t have to worry about competition from banks trying to get rid of distressed assets for rock bottom prices anymore.
. . . For Buyers: While these rising prices may seem like a bad thing for buyers, there are a lot of reasons this works in their favor. For one, it slows down investors who are looking to buy cheap and flip fast. At the bottom of the market investors were “buying low” as fast as they could and conventional buyers found it difficult to compete with investors who were ready to lay out cash and buy with fewer contingencies on the contract. Secondly, rising prices mean that you’re still getting in on homeownership well below peak prices. Even if buying costs more now than it did in 2010, it’s still a better deal than it will be in a year or two as the market rises even further. If you can’t buy at the bottom, at least you can still buy on the upswing! Another reason that 2014 is the time for buyers is that mortgages might cost more starting in 2015. The Senate and the House both have plans on the table to limit the government’s involvement in insuring loans in order to reduce the burden on taxpayers. This will result in higher payments for buyers who take out loans after this legislation passes, but it’s uncertain how much higher. Moody’s Analytics economists have estimated that additional fees on a $200,000 loan could add between $75 and $135 a month. This adds up to an additional $27,000 to $48,000 over the course of a 30 year loan! Both of these plans are moving along slowly, but I urge you to keep this added expense in mind if you’re on the fence about buying this year.
Want to talk with Jackie about Current Market Conditions?
Call 973.335.4600 E-Mail JackieScura@aol.com or Message on Facebook at JackieScuraSays.com
$429,900 Montville
4 BR, 2 Bath Cape Cod charmer w/ stunning custom Kitchen, .42 acres.
$389,900 Denville
4 BR, 2 Bath Custom home with gorgeous HW floors & updates!
$559,900 Parsippany
Pristine 5 BR, 2 Bath home w/HW floors, Finished Bsmt, fenced IG Pool.
$210,000 Boonton
Condo w/private porch in stately Victorian. Tall windows. LR w/Pergo.
C ONT RA C T
UND
“Jackie is more than New Jersey’s Number One Agent; she is a friend. I have referred several people to her and they were all happy with their experience as well. If you want your house to sell, call Jackie. If you are looking for a patient real estate agent to help you find a house, call Jackie.”
ER
$299,900 Mt. Tabor/Parsippany Condo alternative! Masterpiece of Victorian and modern craftsmanship! Gingerbread cottage in sought after Mt. Tabor. Decorative ironwork, ornate woodwork & whimsical details throughout. LR w/stained glass, double door entry. Updated Kitchen w/door to yard. Powder Room. MBR w/balcony. Sitting Room. New Bath w/antique fixtures & oak linen cabinet. Sideyard w/iron gazebo. Irreplacable craftsmanship makes this an amazing value.
$539,900 Boonton Twp.
Contemporary 4 BR, 2 Bath w/views of Stony Brook. Custom woodwork.
$1,325,000 Mountain Lakes Stunning 5 BR, 5.1 Bath Colonial w/gorgeous moldings & mahogany inlaid floors throughout 1st Floor. Elegant Formal LR & DR. Gourmet EIK w/Wolf & Viking apps, limestone ctrs, wood topped center island. Lodge-style Family Room w/walls of windows. Au-Pair Suite. Backyard oasis w/waterfalls, patios, koi ponds.
8 Easy Winter Mood Boosters! It’s tough when Daylight Savings Time ends and suddenly it feels like bedtime before you even have dinner! Seasonal Affective Disorder is a very real problem that affects your mood and energy due to lack of light. Here are some tips for combatting those Wintertime blahs in your home.
Fewer daylight hours mean that it takes a little extra effort to get the sunshine your body and brain crave. A few quick, easy changes can bring in that light you’re missing.
1.
The Early Bird Gets the Sun: Your pets have the right idea when they nap in the sun every morning. Figure out where the light goes in the morning and make that your breakfast and coffee spot! You might need to temporarily re-arrange some furniture for the season, but the mood boost will be worth it!
2.
Let in the Light: Heavy curtains are great for insulating windows, but they block too much light. Sheers with a Roman shade or blinds underneath allow you to have bright light and still drop the blind for privacy and protection from cold drafts at night. Slightly adjusting your curtain rods also makes a difference. If your curtains are only opening enough to show a portion of your windows, you can double your light quickly by widening how far they can open on the curtain rod or adding pullbacks on either side.
3.
It’s Done with Mirrors: Mirrors can help brighten up the darkest corners. Place them to catch the light from windows and bounce it back to where you need it most. They can be very effective at bringing a bright, roomy feel to hallways.
4.
Bright Idea Bulbs: Regular lightbulbs give light, but not the full spectrum that we get from sunlight. Bulbs that mimic the full spectrum - from warm to cool will make your home feel cheerier. These bulbs come in both fluorescent or incandescent varieties.
Breathe in relief with aromatherapy! Your home will smell amazing and you’ll feel fantastic. The best part is that it’s easy to make this change in a number of places around your home.
5.
Cook Up A Plan: If you have a garden window above your kitchen sink, or even a handy window ledge, make a small indoor herb garden. Rosemary and peppermint are proven mood boosters and you’ll feel the benefit whenever you catch a whiff walking by or cook with them!
6.
Wash Away Winter Blues: This is also a great time to finally make use of that soaking tub in your bathroom. (You know it’s been gathering dust while you take a quick shower everyday!) Some of the most popular bath oil scents are also natural remedies for anxiety and depression. Try rose, orange, bergamot, lavender and sandalwood oils. (If you want a great selection, I recommend trying out a natural market like Grassroots in Denville or Whole Foods.)
Decorating is another easy trick for boosting your mood when it’s dark out. Make your home feel like a resort!
7.
Bring the Garden Inside: Fresh, green foliage says Spring like nothing else can. Houseplants will brighten your home and your mood while also naturally cleaning and humidifying the air!
8.
Color Your World: Bright throw pillows, new art on the walls, accent rugs - the options for a quick pop of color are endless! Sisal and jute rugs add a much needed tropical feel in January!
I hope all of these tips will help you make the most of Fall and Winter! If you’d like more household tips, tricks and natural solutions, make sure to check out my Blog! Visit JackieScuraSays.Blogspot.com for weekly updates!
$549,900 Parsippany Totally renovated 5 BR, 3 Bath Colonial Split w/In-Law Suite! LR w/inlaid HW floor, bow windows, steps down to formal DR. EIK w/Corian counters, maple cabinets w/pull-outs, high-end SS apps, sliders to Patio. Family Room w/sliders to Patio. Soundproofed Den/BR w/Bath for perfect In-Law Suite. New roof, chimney, gutters, upgrades galore!
$495,000 Rockaway Twp. Immaculate 5 BR, 3.2 Bath Colonial. LR with gleaming HW floor, picture window, pellet
stove. Formal DR with chair rail, HW floor. EIK w/SS apps, Silestone counters, pantry & Breakfast area with sliders to the deck. Family Room. MBR Suite w/WIC & full Bath with jetted soaking tub. 3 Additional 2nd floor Bedrooms with abundant closet space & plush wall-to-wall carpeting. Convenient 2nd Floor Laundry. Finished Basement with Exercise Room, Bedroom, Storage Room, Rec Room with Kitchen & Sliders to the Poolside! Full Bath with stall shower for post-swim rinses. Half Bath. Perfect for an In-Law Suite or entertaining HQ! Heated, fenced In-Ground Pool with paver patio & large deck
Established 1979
Gilmer
TermiTe & PesT ConTrol, llC. of Succasunna, NJ
Free estimates! Contact Jim or Jay
Phone: (973) 584-7684 Fax: (973) 252-1020
Residential • Commercial • Fumigations Termites & Carpenter Ant Specialists General Pest • Bird Control Humane Animal Trapping Small Repairs • Green Pest Services Available
GilmerPest@aol.com www.GilmerPestControl.com
Get $25
off of any Termite or Carpenter Ant Treatment!* *includes
1 Year Guarantee & W.D.i.r. report
It Came from… New Jersey II
Our State’s Great
Holiday Traditions & Inventions!
Maybe New Jersey didn’t exactly invent Santa Claus, but our modern day
image of what he looks like came from the pen of famous political cartoonist, and longtime Morristown resident, Thomas Nast. He drew his first Santa in 1862 and from then on his Christmas art defined the American Santa as the chubby, jolly, red-suited man we know today, instead of tall, skinny Father Christmas from England. Not only that, but Morristown’s many church steeples and beautiful buildings were used for the idealized towns in his Christmas drawings! If you’d like to see some of this art, visit MacCulloch Hall in Morristown during the Holiday season when they have their Nast Christmas collection on display.
If Thanksgiving Day Football is your favorite part of the day, then you’ve got one more thing to be thankful to New Jersey for. New Jersey hosted the first ever Football game (between Princeton and Rutgers) in 1869. This inspired the first Thanksgiving Day game a few weeks later. Princeton carried on the tradition between 1876 and 1881 until the Intercollegiate Football Assn. made it a Nationwide tradition! “Chestnuts roasting on an open fire” is such a classic Christmas song. Until
the early 1900s, the American Chestnut tree was all over the East Coast and our early settlers relied on it for nutritious nuts and timber. (That gorgeous trim you see in older homes is often American Chestnut.)Then a blight came and killed it off. Since then we’ve had to make do with roasting European Chestnuts every year. Now America is taking back this tradition, and it’s thanks to NJ! Duke Gardens in Hillsborough and Rutgers University are collaborating to re-introduce blight-resistant trees right here in our state.
This year when you sit down to Thanksgiving dinner, make sure to thank New Jersey!
In September of 1789, our first House of Representatives met in Washington, DC to discuss adding the First Amendment to the Constitution. Once that was finalized, NJ Congressman Elias Boudinot proposed that the Senate and Congress join together to request a Thanksgiving proclamation from George Washington. He agreed, and declared the first Federally mandated Thanksgiving Day on October 3rd of 1789. Thanksgiving didn’t become an annual holiday until 1863, but I think we can all agree that New Jersey helped get the ball rolling!
Green Bean Casserole
is an indispensible part of many families’ Holiday dinners and it comes from right here in NJ! It was created in the test kitchen of Campbell Soup (located in Camden) in 1955 by NJ native Dorcas Reilly. She wanted to make an easy recipe using staples she knew most 1950s Americans always had on hand!
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree has
come from NJ for 5 of the past 12 years. Last year’s tree came from Flanders, right here in Morris County! The 82’ tall Norway Spruce survived Hurricane Sandy while neighboring trees fell. Owner Joe Balku called it “A powerful symbol of the region’s strength in this time of crisis”
$739,900 Boonton Twp. 4 Bedroom, 3 Bath Colonial set on over 4 peaceful acres. The 2 stall stable & outdoor paddocks
C ONT RA C T
UND
ER
make this a perfect home for you AND your horse! The luxurious home offers a formal LR & DR. Family Room w/cathedral ceiling & FP. First Floor Au Pair Suite. MBR Suite w/views of property, Jacuzzi bath. Deck, colorful plantings, split rail fences.
$339,900 Boonton
3 BR, 2 Bath Colonial set on 173’ deep lot. LR, Family Rm w/Pergo.
$289,900 Parsippany
Solid 3 BR, 1.1 Bath home w/original trim, HW floors. Updated EIK.
$439,900 Rockaway Twp.
3 BR, 2 Bath home w/ the best views on beautiful White Meadow Lake!
$639,900 Boonton Park Section Perfection! 4 Bedroom, 4.1 Bath Colonial. LR w/double French Doors to deck, HW floor. Stunning EIK with 3 1/4” Brazilian cherry floor, SS apps, custom solid maple cabs, granite ctrs, decorative marble tile backsplash, double fan w/maple hood, center island w/breakfast bar. Breakfast area w/Andersen French doors to deck. Butler’s Pantry. Formal DR features brick FP w/wood mantel. 1st Floor Guest Bedroom & Full Bath. Beautifully appointed Powder Room.
3 Room MBR Suite offering Sitting Rm w/skylight, Dressing Area & Exercise Room. MBath w/skylights, bay window w/ leaded accents, large multi-head stall shower, jetted spa tub, double vanity. Finished Bsmt w/custom Bar, Office, Full Bath. Paver Patio w/koi pond. Large, waterproof Duradeck Deck. 23’x40’ storage unit.
?????????
Real Estate
Q&A
Jackie Invites Luke Tyler of Simplicity Title to Explain Title Insurance
Q: A:
What is an Owner’s Title Policy and why do I need one if I’m getting a deed when I buy the house anyway? What can go wrong once I legally own the home?
An Owner’s Title Policy insures the past history of the land and is a one-time, price regulated premium payment paid at closing. Please note the words Past, One-Time and Price Regulated. Simply stated, “title” is the right of ownership in property. When a person holds the Title to property, it simply means they have proper and legal ownership. Title insurance protects your investment by shielding you from any claims against your title in the property purchased. Title Insurance is an insurance policy guaranteeing that the title to property is clear, and that the owner has the right to sell the property. Accordingly, once a title insurance policy is issued, your interest in the property purchased is protected, subject to the exclusions and conditions contained in the policy. Should a problem later arise with the title, the title insurance underwriter will protect you in any litigation that may ensue, including paying costs, attorneys’ fees, and expenses. If the claim is ultimately proven to be valid, the insurance underwriter will also pay the costs of your claim, up to the amount of the policy, or will perfect the title as insured, at its own expense. At Simplicity Title, we pride ourselves on never having a claim, and we can guarantee that with the security of your title. I had met someone after they purchased their home and they had a terrible run in with a title company that was not doing their due diligence on clearing title. The sellers took out a home equity loan during the sale of their property, so it was not picked up in the original search. $150,000.00 later and after closing, that lien was now the responsibility of the home buyers because it was never caught until they refinanced a couple years down the road. They then had to file a claim with a title company that was now going out of business because of too many claims. Title insurance is so important for you, the home buyer, so please remember, this is YOUR CHOICE on which title company to use.
Q: A:
I’m refinancing my home and my lender says I need another title search. I got one 2 years ago. Do I have to pay again?
This is a Lender’s Policy. Lenders require their borrowers to obtain title insurance so the lender knows that their mortgage is recorded in first lien position. So someone just purchased two years ago and they are refinancing. Within those two years, there could have been a borrower with a $100k hospital bill that couldn’t get paid. The hospital would then record a lien on the property as collateral. We see child support liens, defects in title from prior owners, etc. When you refinance, you’re paying off the original loan. Once that loan is paid off, the lender will require a new policy for the new mortgage. So yes, people who are refinancing are paying again, but they are not paying as much. If the new loan amount is less than the existing loan amount then they will get the full refinance rate which is a much lower rate than the basic rate of when they purchased.
Luke & some of the Simplicity Team
Luke Tyler, Owner Call 877.TITLE.20
(848.5320)
It’s YOUR choice who to use for title work.
No copy costs • No software fees
www.simplicitytitle.com
• Zero non-required charges •
We save you money with:
A Homeowner’s Story Once upon a time, (41 years ago) Irene & Harry Shannon moved from a newly purchased house in Queens, NY, which sat on a 40’x100’ piece of property, to this peaceful, private 11 acre, two-home estate (featuring its own pond!) in Boonton Township, NJ. Harry & Irene recall the first time they ever saw the property… It was the middle of winter,
the ground covered with snow. Driving down the driveway they saw two charming homes. Upon entering the front door of the main house, they were amazed at what they saw. Greeting them was a 40’ living room with a 17’ cathedral ceiling all covered with natural wood. A fire was crackling in a large stone fireplace. Looking out the dining area window they saw a beautiful waterfall cascading onto ice formations into a running brook. As an architect, Harry immediately thought of Frank Lloyd Wright’s “Fallingwater” in Pennsylvania. When they looked out the living room window they saw what appeared to be a snow-covered field. It was a 2-acre snow covered pond (hence the waterfall). Boy oh boy, this place was more than they ever expected. It was so unique they felt an opportunity like this would never present itself again. Then and there they decided that, whatever it took, they would like to buy it. Well, it took over a year (a story for another time) and in April of 1972 Irene & Harry moved to Boonton Township along with their 3 and 5 year old sons (and another due in 7 months) and their Golden Retriever puppy who, unfortunately, saw fit to barf all over the car as they drove to their new home. That day in April, 1972, was the beginning of a life-long adventure for the young couple from Queens. April was the perfect time to begin a new life in a new state because life was budding all about them on this wonderful piece of land. The property yielded beautiful magnolia and dogwood trees, a rose garden, countless peony bushes, wild flowers galore, a bog garden, and a large prickly pear cactus patch (eventually that had to go, because of the 3 little boys). There was just so much to learn about this enchanting place. And learn they did. They learned that the peeping sounds that filled the April evening air were not birds, but tree frogs, and what they thought might be the sound of a moose, was actually one heck of a large bullfrog. They learned that aside from white tailed deer, that bobcats were still seen in Boonton Township as well as bear and coyotes, not to mention the plethora of wonderful birds attracted to this place. There were Giant Blue Heron, Green Heron, Osprey, different varieties of hawks and numerous ducks. The fish in the pond were plentiful; large and small mouth-bass, perch, pickerel, catfish and, of course, sunfish. The pond was a source of entertainment for this family, their relatives and friends. Fishing, swimming and boating in the summer, ice fishing and ice skating in the winter. The hills on the property provided terrific sledding in the winter and the surrounding woods were always great exploring opportunities for the Shannon boys. All this, just a mere 29 miles from NYC!
“It’s hard to believe that over 41 years have passed since we first drove down our driveway, but it’s time to move on. We hope that whoever buys this place will love and enjoy it as much as we have. We did truly live happily ever after.”
And they all lived . . .
46 Oak Road in Boonton Township
29 Miles from NYC, but a world apart from everyday cares. 11 Acre property offering 2 Single Family
homes and a stunning 2.5 Acre pond & waterfall. Endless possibilities! Main 3/4 BR, 2 Bath home offers LR w/soaring beamed ceiling, pecky cypress paneling, huge wood-burning stone FP, wide plank oak floor. DR w/beamed ceiling, built-in cabs, wall of windows. Florida Room w/sliders to covered Patio. MBR Suite w/dressing area, gorgeous views of property & luxury bath w/walk-in stall shower, dual vanity & decorative tilework. 2nd Floor rustic Loft & Studio/Home Office w/skylights, high ceiling. Lower Lev. Family Rm w/doors to yard, Laundry Room w/shower for after-swim rinse, 2 BRs & Bath. Addl. 3 BR, 2 Bath 2nd Home w/solid rental history. Perfect for income, private enclave or home office. Horses allowed. A one-of-akind retreat! Property is farm assessed for lower taxes!
Offered at: $1,595,000
. . . happily ever after!
$1,595,000 Montville Make every day at home a mini-vacation in this amazing 5 BR, 4.1 Bath home. 2 Story Foyer,
Formal LR & DR. 2 Story Family Room, sunny Den. Gourmet EIK w/sliders to Patio. Luxury Master Suite w/Sitting Room. Basement Level retreat w/Exercise Room, Theatre w/tiered seating, Music Room., Sauna, Spa-Like Bath w/steam shower.
$349,900 Parsippany
$399,900 Livingston
$384,900 Morris Plains
The Best of Brookstone! 3 BR, 2.2 Bath Townhouse w/Updated EIK.
Spacious 3 BR, 2 Bath Split w/HW throughout & upgrades galore.
4 BR, 2 Bath Colonial w/deep moldings, new windows. .22 acres.
JS
The Law Office of Joseph S. Scura, LLC P 973-414-8787 ● F 973-414-0606 ● Joe@JosephScuraLaw.com
● Criminal Defense ● Municipal Court ● Family Law ● Civil Practice Violent Crimes Drug Offenses Domestic Violence Appeals
Juvenile Matters DWI Traffic Violations Custody
Spousal Support Personal Injury Contract Disputes Landlord/Tenant
Three Convenient Locations: Essex County Office: 331 Central Ave. Orange, NJ 07050
Morris County: 1160 Route 46 West Parsippany, NJ 07054
Morris County: 94 Diamond Spring Rd Suite 201 Denville, NJ 07834
www.JosephScuraLaw.com
Household Magic: Superstitions for Attracting
Love, Luck, Health & Wealth!
A lot of household lore centers around brooms. The Chinese believe that it's best to always sweep inwards as you go, so as not to sweep good luck back out the front door. European tradition says to never bring an old broom along when you move to a new home because the past will come with it. It's Italian tradition to sweep all the corners of the house with your new broom once you move in to drive out any lingering bad spirits the old owners left behind.
L ooking to attract or keep love?
Plant a pot of sweet basil in an indoor herb garden. This herb is supposed to attract love, passion and wealth and is also a natural antidepressant in addition to being delicious! Cooking with basil will bring extra romance to your meal. Feng Shui dictates that clutter symbolizes a lack of room for people in your life. If you want to attract a partner, clean out your closet and leave a little room for a new love! Another Feng Shui belief is that decorating with pairs attracts relationships. Use pairs of candlesticks, art with two people and sets of two for your tchotchkes.
W ant a sweet night’s sleep?
According to Irish lore, you shouldn’t change your bedding on Fridays to avoid nightmares. Also, never interrupt making a bed in the middle or you’ll have a restless, interrupted night’s sleep! When you wake up, make sure to get out of bed on the same side you got in on for good luck!
S tart the New Year off right!
Filling your cupboards and wallets by New Years Eve will attract prosperity for the rest of the year according to Chinese tradition. Italians believe that placing shiny new coins face up on your windowsill will bring wealth in the New Year.
B ad luck bugging you? Bring some lucky insect motifs into your decor.
Dragonflies are both beautiful and viewed as lucky by the Chinese and Native Americans. Crickets are traditional harbingers of good luck in many cultures and you'll find brass ones for sale as "hearth crickets" for placing by your fireplace. This tradition comes from a Charles Dicken story that said "to find a cricket on the hearth was the luckiest thing of all." Ladybugs are America's own good luck bug. This tradition probably comes from the fact that they protect our plants by eating harmful pests.
I nvite good luck into your home!
There are many attractive good luck symbols you can hang over your front door. Chinese Ba Gua mirrors, upside down horseshoes, Pennsylvania Dutch hex signs, Turkish evil eyes and nautical stars all bring luck along with decorative flair! An elephant statue with an upwards facing trunk can attract good luck through your door. Pair two to attract relationships! In the South, you’ll often see porch roofs, door frames and window sills painted “haint blue” to keep out evil spirits! This light blue is both lucky and a lovely, colorful accent!
$1,100,000 Boonton Twp. CALLING ALL INVESTORS! 10,000 sq. ft. 7 BR, 7.1 Bath luxury home set on 7 acres, with a separate 10,000 sq. ft. garage for 30+ cars & finished space above! Room to work and play at home w/private tennis court & indoor pool, jacuzzi & sauna. Surrounded by over 300 acres of protected land w/a 1000 ft. drive for perfect seclusion! “Jackie is one of the most professional people that I have ever met. As a first time home buyer, everyone we spoke with "had a guy" for what we needed (Realtor, Mortgage Broker, Inspector, etc.) After months and months of frustration and dealing with unreliable people, we found Jackie. We had previously had two deals fall apart due to incompetent "real estate professionals". Jackie helped us with every step of the home buying process and found us the home of our dreams. She truly is a godsend. Our experience was extremely positive and I have since referred several people (including my immediate family members) to Jackie. She truly cares about not only what she does for a living, but also the people that she does it for. We will absolutely be using Jackie again in the future. If you are looking for a professional, positive experience, look no further! Jackie helped make our dream a reality and she can do the same for you.” Danny, Homeowner since 5/2013 (Thanks to Jackie!)
C ONT RA C T
UND
ER
$895,000 Montville An entertainer’s dream! 5 BR, 3 Bath luxury home w/ a resort-style backyard retreat! Entertain, relax & escape on over an acre. Formal LR & DR w/bay windows. EIK w/granite. MBR Suite w/HW floor, Jacuzzi Bath. Fin Bsmt. w/Bath & Sauna. Backyard features gourmet outdoor Kitchen w/granite bar, wine fridge, fridge, huge grill. IG pool w/separate spa, cool deck & changing rooms. Patio w/motorized awning, pavers. Fountain, bocce court, vegetable garden.
$449,900 Parsippany
4 BR, 2.1 Bath Split. Refinished HW floors, updated Kitchen, .34 acres,
$499,900 Boonton Twp.
3 BR, 3 Bath townhome with panoramic views! Finished Bsmt.
$299,900 Parsippany
Totally renovated 2 BR Ranch. EIK w/ granite ctrs, SS apps. All new Bath.
100% Natural Odor Killers! Smelly shoes? No problem! Tea bags have
kitchen sink making a stink?
First, boil a pot of water and pour it on down there. Then, add a half cup of baking soda and follow it with a healthy pour of white vinegar. Let the mixture do its dirty work and then give it a rinse in ten minutes with a second pot of boiling water. This will get rid of smells and anything clogging up the pipes as well!
natural odor-absorbing abilities and if you tuck one in each shoe for a few days, it’ll make a big difference. Tea bags also make great small-space fresheners so pop one in each dresser drawer to keep everything fresh!
The smell of fresh coffee is amazing, but what you might not know is that it also cancels out other scents! (You may
have noticed that some perfume departments keep around a dish of coffee beans for sniffing between samples.) If the trash gets smelly between garbage days, or the can liner has a lingering odor after you remove the bag, try sprinkling some unused grounds in there. I can’t promise it will smell as good as a Starbucks, but you’ll notice a definite change for the better. This trick also works wonders in your fridge. Just leave a dish of grounds in there for a quick freshening up.
We’ve all forgotten a load of laundry in the washer at some point. White vinegar is your best friend when this
happens because it can take care of that musty smell fast. Add 1 cup to the load you’re re-washing and you’ve got your second chance at fresh laundry! Vinegar is also a natural fabric softener and will strip away detergent build-up, so it doesn’t hurt to add some to the wash every time!
Vinegar can conquer smells lingering in the air.
Musty basements, skunk spray from outside, fresh paint odors or lingering burnt smells in the kitchen will be absorbed within 24 hours if you just leave out a bowl of white vinegar. For a spill-proof solution, you can also soak a slice of white bread with vinegar and leave that out on a plate. Either way, you’ll be amazed at how vinegar eats odors.
Does your cutting board still smell like onions after a scrub-down?
There’s an easy solution for that, and it won’t leave any chemicals where you chop your veggies. Cut a lemon in half, squeeze the juice over the board and rub it in using the lemon half. Let the juice sit for 20-30 minutes and then rinse. The best part is that this doesn’t just kill odors - it can lift stains, too!
Make Your Own Natural air freshener! 1 spray bottle 12 drops of pure essential oil in any scent you like! (Try Grassroots Natural Market for a great selection of scents) 1/2 cup white vinegar 1 1/2 cups water
During the Fall and Winter when windows are closed and your house is sealed tight, it’s important to watch out for your indoor air quality. Keep chemicals out of your air with all natural cleaners!
Jackie Says . . . “Hire the Oil Tank Experts!”
Residential Services Offered By
N or R oc E nterprises
Tank Installations • Tank Removals Tank Cleaning • Tank Abandoning in Place Remediation • Groundwater Investigations Soil Testing • Tank Testing, Scanning & Locating
We have the broad experience you need to handle your environmental challenges while complying with today’s strict State & Federal laws. NorRoc is fully permitted & insured in the Tri-State area.
Call: (973) 541-9559 | Find us Online: www.norroctank.com| E-Mail: norroc@optonline.net
$650,000 Parsippany 3 BR, 2.1 Bath home offering the ease of Condo living with perfect End-Unit privacy! HW floors
$338,900 Parsippany
4 BR, 1.1 Bath Cape. 22’x18’ EIK w/ sep. Dining Area. Backyard w/deck.
$489,900 Montville
3 BR, 2.1 Bath End Unit. New HW floors throughout 1st floor.
$215,000 Denville
2 BR, 2 Bath Expanded Ranch w/ high ceilings, Deck & Balcony.
C ONT RA C T
UND
“There is a reason that she is the #1 selling REMAX agent in NJ. Jackie and her team were very knowledgeable about our area and made excellent suggestions on what to do to sell our house quickly in a changing market. As a result, we had a contract in hand in less than a week!”
ER
throughout 1st floor. LR w/cathedral ceiling, gas FP opens to Kitchen & Breakfast Room w/sliders to deck. Perfect indoor/ outdoor flow! First Floor Master Suite w/Jacuzzi Bath. 2nd Floor Family Room. 2 upstairs BRs & Office. Private deck.
$799,900 Montville
5 BR, 2.1 Bath Colonial. Formal LR & DR. CI Kitchen. 2 story Family Room.
$600,000 Madison
4 BR, 2.1 Bath Tudor w/slate roof. Update to make it a dream home!
Are You a First Time Homebuyer? I Can Help! Getting Ready to Buy with Dominique 1. First you need a clear look at your budget.
Don’t forget to factor in closing costs, taxes and insurance!
2. Second you need to get all of your documents in place for your loan application. Call me for a checklist to get you in order!
3. Know that there are some great programs
just for First Time Buyers! Lower fees, grants and low downpayments are all possibilities. I can connect you with a great mortgage rep so you’ll know all your options!
4. Call Dominique for a no-pressure Buyer’s Consultation! I can walk you through everything you need to know as a buyer!
Dominique Scura Sales Associate
RE/MAX First Choice Realtors cell: 973.219.8909
office: 973.335.4600
Dominique.Scura@gmail.com ShopMorrisCountyHomes.com
Want great Real Estate Tips and News? Go to Facebook.com/ ShopMorrisCountyHomes or follow me on Twitter @ShopNJHomes
Our Loans Open Doors! Buy or refinance with our help. We offer all types of loans for all types of homes. Whether you are looking for your first home, interested in financing your dream home or just want to save on your current mortgage, our expert loan officers can help you find the right financing solution. » Fixed and Adjustable Closed-End Loan Options » Rate Locks and Long-Term Caps » Jumbo Loans » FHA, NJMHFA* Programs Including Smart Start and More for First-Time Homebuyers
Apply today. We have NO commitment fee – a $499 value!
Steven Testa VP, Regional Sales Manager Sun Home Loans, a division of Sun National Bank 210 Park Avenue, Suite 102 Florham Park, NJ 07932 stesta@sunnb.com o: 973.805.4156 | c: 973.615.9745 NMLS #460176
All loans subject to credit approval and programs may change at any time. This is not a commitment to lend. *New Jersey Mortgage and Home Finance Agency © 2013 Sun Home Loans, a division of Sun National Bank. NMLS #429900
Jackie Says . . . Save The Date! Boonton Main Street Carriage Rides Saturday, Nov. 30th & Dec. 7th, 4:00 to 7:00
Celebrate the Holidays Victorian Style with Boonton Main Street! Horse and Carriage Rides will bring you through scenic Downtown Boonton! Come see the stunning window displays and support Boonton’s unique local businesses with some Christmas shopping!
Chocolate Stroll Friday December 6th, 4:00 to 7:00
Downtown businesses are celebrating chocolate with samples from candy to hot cocoa for shoppers. It’s Morris County’s most delicious way to shop! www.BoontonMainStreet.org
The Stickley Museum At Craftsman Farms in Parsippany Candlelight Tours at Craftsman Farms Saturday, December 7th & 14th, 5:00
Learn about “Downton Abbey” era Holiday traditions and decorations on a special candlelit tour through the Stickley Museum at Craftsman Farms. This is a rare evening look at the museum lit by its period lanterns and decorative lights! Decorations go up for Thanksgiving weekend and the regular house tour will also offer a Christmassy view Thursdays through Sundays 12:15 to 3:15. Make sure to look for information about Holiday Shopping at the annual Trunk Show in my “Off The Beaten Path Gift Guide!” www.StickleyMuseum.org
Morristown
First Night Morris
Tuesday, December 31st
Celebrate the New Year with Food, Festivities, Music and Fireworks; all within easy distance of the Morristown Green. Fun for All Ages! www.FirstNightMorris.org
Downtown Denville Holiday Parade Sunday, December 1st, 1:00
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. Starting December 1st, tentative hours for Santa Land will be weekdays 3:00-7:00 and weekends from 1:00-6:00 www.DenvilleNJ.org
“Thank you Terry & Gene for always doing such a great job for my holiday parties! I’ll be back again this year for more of that amazing antipasto!” ~ Jackie
Let the Mount Holleran Towne Tavern plan YOUR Holiday Party! The Towne Tavern’s fun, casual environment is perfect for your Holiday event! The staff can create menus for any appetite and budget and will also do Off-Premises Catering! Call for a customized event proposal!
450 N. Beverywck Road, Lake Hiawatha | (973) 794-3366 | MHTowneTavern.com
Jackie’s
Mount Tabor Holiday Fair & Cookie Walk November 15th 5:00-8:00 November 16th 9:00 to 5:00 November 17th 12:00-3:00
Handmade ornaments with a Victorian flair, Mt.Tabor gift items and the famous “Cookie Walk”. No time to bake for the holidays? Fill a tin from a wide assortment of holiday cookies. Proceeds to benefit the Mount Tabor Historical Society. www.MountTaborNJ.org
Off The Beaten Path Gift Guide! Why fight with mall crowds for the exact same gifts that everyone else will be getting? Get off the beaten path and buy your friends and family unforgettable one-of-a-kind creations! Remember that when you shop local small businesses, you’re supporting your own community and neighbors! Every gift you see on these pages helps support local artists, business owners & non-profits - and that’s a gift that keeps on giving all year round!
arnge Pillows
Arnge’s distinctively bold designs come from the imaginations of long-time NJ design professionals Mike Dawson and Pete Mars. Their fabrics are printed on 100% Kona cotton in North Carolina and they make their zippered pillow covers in the United States, paying fair wages. A percentage of Arnge’s profits will provide support for environmental legislation, wildlife and domestic animal protection, public radio and television, historic preservation, history education and equal rights for all beings because, “Without equality, without knowledge, without our planet and ALL of its life, we are nothing.” Get 15% off through 12/31 with
Promo Code Fall15 at www.arnge.com!
Craftsman Farms Holiday Trunk Show:
12:00-4:00 November 29th-December 1st, December 5th-8th & 12th-15th Many of you know Craftsman Farms for their fun Family events or local historic significance, but what you might not know is that it’s a real shopping destination! The shop is full of handcrafted pottery, jewelry, copper and gorgeous scarves! During the holiday season, the selection expands with a large trunk show full of stunning and unique gifts by skilled artists and local crafters. This year’s offerings will include handmade jewelry from The Beadwings & museum-exclusive pillows from Arnge! Get everyone on your shopping list something one-of-a-kind this year!
www.StickleyMuseum.org
Get Cozy Travel & Pet Accessories I just got these three bags from the very talented Gail Yorkston of Get Cozy Travel and Pet Accessories! The biggest is an iPad case, the middle is a stocking and lingerie bag for travelling. The small pouch is so amazing. It has 8 compartments and it all cinches shut tightly to store your jewelry - tangle & scratch free - when you travel! Gail uses gorgeous silk fabrics and hand crafts everything! Keep her in mind for gifts and travel bags for yourself ! These bags are so luxurious and yet so affordable!
http://www.bonanza.com/booths/getcozy
Baker’s Perfection
198 Greenpond Rd, Rockaway 973.983.0700
Whenever I need desserts for an event, I always go to Baker’s Perfection! The Amellos make everything from cookie platters (perfect for Holiday gifts!) to some of the most decadent desserts I’ve Mention my magazine & ever tasted! They also offer a fantastic ENJOY 10% OFF YOUR assortment of breakfast pastries for PURCHASE OF $20.00 a great Christmas morning! I can’t OR MORE! say enough good things about this (Offer can only be used wonderful local, family owned business! Y 10% OFF YOUR PURCHASE OF $20.00 OR MORE once & can not be combined
www.BakersPerfection.biz
with any other offer.) FER CAN ONLY BE USED ONCE AND IT CAN NOT BE COMBINED WITH ANY OTHER OFFER)
Bobby’s News & Gifts HOURS OF OPERATION:
521 Main Street, Boonton | 973.794.4470
TUESDAY‐FRIDAY 7:3O AM TO 4:00 PM
If you haven’t been to Bobby’s, you’re missing out! This store is so much more than a news stand! It’s true SATURDAYS 7:30 AM TO 3:00 PM that Bobby’s has a great selection of magazines, but my favorite spot in the store is the big, colorful kids’ section, which has an amazing variety of toys, games and books. I love to take my grandson there for a treat! Bobby’s also stocks jewelry & gifts galore and greeting cards to go with them. If you’re a gourmet, you’re going to love the selection of Rose City Belgian chocolates and the shop’s own selection of gourmet coffees. Buy a bag or get a cup to go! Shop owner Bob Tullock is full of Boonton pride, and it really shows in his line of BoontonWear t-shirts and hats! Bobby’s also regularly hosts book signings by local authors, poetry nights & book clubs! Make sure to “Like” Bobby’s News & Gifts on Facebook to
keep track of all the great in-store events and special announcements!
Show You Care With Unique
Local Gifts!
Jacqueline Scura RE/MAX First Choice Realtors 1160 Route 46 West Parsippany NJ 07054
PRSRT STD ECRWSS U.S. POSTAGE PAID EDDM RETAIL
Local Postal Customer
Jackie Highly Recommends these Local Businesses! When You Call, They Come! Fall Savings
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
Call: 973-428-8196 Fax: 973-428-0443 eMail: vciasullo@ phaselinear-inc.com
Specializing in:
Large-scale Electrical Upgrades and Installations • Top-of-the-Line Bosch Security Systems • • Emergency Home Generator Systems • 29 Harvest Ave, East Hanover, NJ 07936
Joseph Maselli & Assoc. Inc. 100% Mailed to Bergen, Essex, Morris and Passaic Counties
Marilyn DeRosa
973-727-9255 BUY ANY AD 50% Off With This Coupon Only
• ADDITIONS • RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • REMODELING • INTERIOR Major • BATHROOMS • KITCHENS • EXTERIOR Credit Cards Accepted • BASEMENTS • DECKS
FULLY INSURED & LICENSED • NJ LICENSE/REG: 13H00065800 We Work With Insurance Companies
973.694.9997
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