MARKET
REPORT - MORRIS / ESSEX / UNION
JOSH SARNELL
As a seasoned real estate professional with over 20 years of experience, Josh Sarnell has mastered the art of seamless transitions—not just for himself, but for the high-net-worth clients he serves. Having built a succesful career in the competitive world of New York City luxury real estate, Josh now leads Douglas Elliman’s New Jersey expansion, bringing an unmatched combination of NYC deal-making expertise and deep local knowledge of NJ’s top suburban markets.
A native of the area, Josh understands exactly what it takes to make the move from the city to the suburbs— whether it’s securing the right commuter-friendly location, finding the best school districts, or maximizing property value. His clients—ranging from Wall Street executives to international buyers and developers—trust him for his strategic pricing, high-level negotiations, and extensive broker network spanning both sides of the Hudson.
Thinking about a move? Call today to chat.
April: Investments
Investment by definition is the act of devoting time, effort, energy or finances to a particular undertaking with the expectation of a worthwhile result. We can invest in a lot of things such as our community, our relationships, our finances, and our health with the hope that the effort will have a positive impact. We can invest in our community by supporting our local businesses, schools and local organizations. We can serve the community through volunteerism and investment in future generations. We can participate in public surveys and stay educated and involved with future city planning. Investing in our finances helps create wealth, meets long term financial goals and secures our retirement. On a personal level, we can invest in our families and enrich relationships by giving time and effort to the people in our lives that mean the most to us. This type of investment has the most meaningful impact to not only ourselves but to the people closest to us.
My personal goal in 2025 is to invest more time doing things that bring me joy. For me, this means looking at every day and making the decision to really enjoy the gift of life, because every day we wake up, is another day we get to fill with doing the things that bring us joy. Spending more quality time with our kids, taking time to discover new places with John, and making new friends along the way. Investing in doing the things that bring me joy, can be as simple as watching an exciting new movie, having coffee at a new café with a friend or planning my dream vacation to Greece. What are these things for you?
While investing in ourselves, relationships, community and finances can look very different from person to person, the effort we put into these areas of our lives are done with the common goal of having a positive impact that yields results. In this issue, we wanted to share with you inspiring stories on investing beyond financing.
We hope you enjoy our Investment issue!
If you’re looking to grow your business, brand, product or service and want to advertise with us or have local stories to share, reach out to John.Meyer@citylifestyle.com or call us at 973-944-1440. We look forward to seeing you around town!
ANA MEYER, PUBLISHER @CHATHAMSHORTHILLS
April 2025
PUBLISHER
Ana Meyer | ana.meyer@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Ana Meyer | ana.meyer@citylifestyle.com
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
Kelsey Harper
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATORS
Stephany Aznar, Ben Meyer
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Sue Baldani, Benjamin Meyer
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Chris Jorda Photography
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Zach Miller
LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick
Dr. Mark I. Khaimov, D.D.S.
At MK Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, Dr. Mark Khaimov provides cutting-edge periodontal care in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Specializing in dental implants, gum health, and jaw support, Dr. Khaimov uses advanced treatments like Teeth-in-a-Day (All-on-4 ®), Pinhole Surgical Technique, Laser Gum Therapy (LANAP ®), and Piezosurgery to address everything from early gum disease to complex tooth loss. Conveniently located in Nutley and Florham Park, we proudly serve Essex and Morris County, offering personalized care with respect and compassion. Discover the difference expert periodontal care can make for your smile. Our Mission & Promise to Patients: “From dental implants and cosmetics to gum disease, our mission is to rejuvenate our patients’ smiles making sure that they return to the quality of life that they deserve.” - Dr. Mark Khaimov.
1-2: La Pergola's 15th Year Anniversary Celebration! 3: Millburn-Short Hills Chamber of Commerce Board Members,1st evening event at EVIVE Spa in Springfield 4-5: Chatham Chamber of Commerce event at CREW. 6: B.I.G. (Believe, Inspire, Grow) Galantine networking event Pod leaders, Malina, Marisa, Kim, Cathy, Rose. 7: Lisa & Erin at B.I.G. (Believe, Inspire, Grow) Galantine networking event.
business monthly
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Josh Sarnell: Expert Real Estate Strategist Connecting NYC and NJ
With over 20 years of real estate experience in New York and New Jersey, Josh Sarnell offers unparalleled expertise. Known for his strategic approach, he bridges the energy of NYC with New Jersey's suburban charm. Josh provides clients access to exclusive off-market properties, expanded listings, and a broad professional network, including top inspectors, contractors, and attorneys, ensuring comprehensive, informed guidance for every transaction.
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NJ's Chef Covas, Food Network 2x champion Cookbook now available!
Chef Covas cookbook is a One-of-a-Kind Tribute to Portuguese Cooking, Little Portugal is a small, staple community in New Jersey where generations of Portuguese families celebrate the tastes and flavors of their culture. Having grown up there, Chef Covas, a Food Network champion with Portuguese tradition created this collection of recipes to share. Available in July but it can be preordered on her website through Amazon and Barnes & Noble. https://www.cheflaurencovas.com/littleportugal
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St. Patrick School in Chatham, NJ is a co-educational Catholic elementary school that begins with Preschool (Pre-K3) and continues through Grade 8 and offers several Early Childhood Programs for children, ages three to five, as well as full-day Transitional Kindergarten and Kindergarten programs. Grades 3 through 8 offer students a departmental learning experience with an academic program designed for rigor and balance to meet individual needs.
EXCEPTIONAL
DENTISTRY BY SPECIALIZED DENTISTS
Dr. Azizian, DDS & Dr. Sallustio, DDS
Dr. Sallustio and Dr. Azizian practice a full scope of prosthetic and cosmetic dentistry. With a focus on implants, crowns, bridges, Kor whitening, Botox and porcelain veneers, Dr. Sallustio and Azizian help patients regain confidence in their smile. The doctors also provide life changing treatments includng same day All-on-4 implants and bridges, prosthetics for oral cancer, trauma and congenital defects including cleft lip and palate. Consider a consultation with Drs. Sallustio and Azizian to analyze your smile.
Pre-natal and Post-partum Care Pelvic Floor Dysfunction Pelvic Pain Urinary Symptoms Bowel Issues
PAIN AND INFLAMMATION RELIEF
ARTICLE BY SUE BALDANI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRIS JORDA PHOTOGRAPHY
A REVOLUTIONARY PRODUCT THAT WILL CHANGE HOW WE TREAT ACHES AND PAINS AS WELL AS IMPROVE OUR EVERYDAY LIVES AND HEALTH
When Dr. Richard Prince, a life sciences executive and Short Hills resident, and esteemed scientist Dr. Joel Friedman, teamed up and founded Vascarta® Inc. in 2020, their goal was to revolutionize the way people deal with pain and inflammation. Today, they are well on their way to meeting that lofty goal.
HOW DID YOU TWO COME TOGETHER?
JF: We were at one time friendly competitors, and right before COVID, we were thinking about creating a company. During COVID, I came up with a safe gel formulation that allows for very high concentrations of hard to dissolve medicines and natural products and for smart drug delivery into the blood following topical application.
This led to the establishment of our new company that we named Vascarta. Richard has this amazing sense of what’s needed to bring new compounds to market in an efficient manner.
HOW DOES THIS NEW FORMULATION EASE PAIN AND INFLAMMATION?
JF: Inflammation activates pain generating nerves. Curcumin was selected as our first therapeutic compound given its well-established safety profile and promise as an analgesic and anti-inflammatory agent. Our first product was produced by combining curcumin with our patented gel drug delivery technology. The results were dramatic.
RP: Curcumin is a spice derived from turmeric. It’s widely used around the world for many different ailments. The United States FDA recognizes curcumin as a safe compound.
JF: Curcumin has been very well studied and has shown great therapeutic promise. However, oral curcumin has only minimal therapeutic efficacy even at very high doses. Our transdermal delivery approach overcomes the many limitations associated with oral curcumin. Whereas oral curcumin requires extended treatment
over weeks and still only yields modest benefits, our product can generate detectable results literally within minutes of topical or sublingual [under the tongue] application. Normalization of elevated blood pressure, as well as pain reduction, occur very shortly after topical application. These effects are not seen with oral curcumin.
WHAT CONDITIONS CAN IT TREAT?
JF: The many painful joint ailments such as osteoarthritis and sciatica that plague and limit the elderly are prime targets for this product, especially because of the significant limitations on NSAID use in older pain sufferers.
Based on our dramatic and just published preclinical results, we are also pursuing treatment of chronic and acute pain in sickle cell patients.
We also have results indicating that our product may prove effective in relieving many of the consequences of aging.
TELL ME ABOUT THE TOPI-CLICK APPLICATOR.
RP: With just a little twist of the applicator, you will hear an audible click, which will release a defined dose of the product which is then put on your skin in the desired place and gently rubbed in with the tip of the applicator. Alternatively, the dose can be applied directly under your tongue.
IT’S AVAILABLE WITH A DOCTOR’S PRESCRIPTION, CORRECT?
RP: Yes, it’s currently being prescribed by doctors in 22 states from Town & Country Compounding Pharmacy (Ramsey, New Jersey).
WHAT IS THE NAME OF THE PRODUCT?
RP: Until it’s approved by the FDA, all we can say at present is that our curcumin transdermal product is available. To learn more about it, people can contact Town & Country Compounding Pharmacy.
WHAT HAS THE FEEDBACK BEEN?
JF: We have reports showing that within two hours, knee pain was gone and normal activity, including sports, resumed. We have also had reports of enhanced athletic performance.
I, myself, was starting to get horrible sciatica, and I rubbed it on my lower back and overnight the pain was gone. We had another case of somebody who had a motorcycle accident and his knee swelled up and was agonizingly painful. After he applied our product, the swelling went down and the pain was gone.
Multiple users report substantial and sustained drops in elevated blood pressure back into the ideal range as well.
WHAT IS YOUR TOP GOAL?
RP: We have worldwide exclusive rights to this life-changing product, and Vascarta is actively working to one day make this curcumin product globally available. The world is really clamoring for non-opioid or non-habit-forming analgesics as well as safe anti-inflammatories without major side effects.
IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO MENTION?
RP: Vascarta is a local company with a strong and experienced management team. We have embarked upon something with significant potential to make a positive impact in the practice of medicine. We’re so excited about the future. Interested parties can contact me to learn more about how Vascarta is “Moving Medicine Forward, Smartly.”
Teaching Teens Financial Responsibility
Before Life Does It for Them
We teach kids to read, write, and do math—but what about managing money?
Jeffrey Feinstein, Principal of KBK Wealth Management, informs that without early financial education, young adults often struggle with debt. “Schools don’t always cover the basics,” he says. Start now, and you can prepare your teen for a confident financial future.
START WITH EARNING, NOT JUST SPENDING
Money lessons stick when teens have their own income. Whether it’s an allowance, a part-time job, or a side hustle, earning money helps them understand the effort behind every dollar. This is also a great opportunity to discuss taxes—showing them their first paycheck and explaining deductions can prevent future shock.
MAKE SAVING A HABIT
Help your teen see savings as a necessity, not an afterthought. A simple method—50% for needs, 30% for wants, and 20% for savings—teaches balance. Encourage them to save for short-term goals, like a new gadget, and long-term ones, such as a car or college. Matching their savings as an incentive can reinforce good habits.
TEACH THOUGHTFUL SPENDING
Teens are constantly targeted by marketing, making impulse buying a real challenge.
ARTICLE BY COLLABORATION, JEFF FEINSTEIN & ANA MEYER | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Help them think before they spend by comparing prices, setting a spending limit, and delaying big purchases. Using a budgeting app or tracking expenses manually can open their eyes to where their money really goes.
INTRODUCE INVESTING EARLY
Investing isn’t just for adults. Teaching teens about compound interest, stocks, and long-term wealth-building can set them up for financial independence. A simple custodial brokerage account or even fractional shares can help them see how money grows over time.
EXPLAIN CREDIT BEFORE THEY GET A CARD
A credit card can be a useful tool or a dangerous trap. Teaching teens about credit scores, interest rates, and responsible borrowing will prepare them for smart financial decisions. Adding them as an
authorized user on your card—while requiring them to pay their portion— can provide hands-on experience in a controlled way.
NORMALIZE MONEY CONVERSATIONS
The more comfortable teens are talking about money, the better they’ll manage it. Have open discussions about budgeting, investing, and financial goals. Share your own financial lessons—both successes and mistakes—to make the topic relatable. Financial habits start early, and the lessons you teach now can help your teen avoid costly mistakes in adulthood. If you’d like to explore how to incorporate these strategies into your family’s overall financial plan, a licensed financial advisor can help create a tailored roadmap.
YOU CAN’T STOP SOCIAL MEDIA
Teenagers, young adults (and even parents) are constantly scrolling. One tactic that works is adding financial literacy to social accounts for teens. Instagram accounts such as @cnbc, @wsj (Wall Street Journal), and @investopedia provide financial news and education in an entertaining and concise format. In between celebrity and influencer posts, having your children gain financial knowledge, can use social media for their own betterment. To learn more, visit https://www.kbkwealth.com/ and explore their Knowledge Center.
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ESSEX COUNTY. NJ
ARTICLE BY SUE BALDANI
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRIS JORDA PHOTOGRAPHY
Follow these smart money moves for great returns
Real Estate
Investing
When investing in real estate, it’s always smart to have an expert guide you. Here, Jon Lamkin, senior vice president of Rate in Millburn, shares his knowledge to ensure you’re moving in the right direction.
HOW DO PEOPLE START INVESTING IN REAL ESTATE?
The second home market has taken off over the last five years. Many homeowners have seen great appreciation in their primary residence, and we have helped many clients use the equity from a primary to help buy a second home that they can use instead of paying for expensive vacations.
After owning it for a few years, some people realize that they might not use it as much as they thought. With the growth of sites like Airbnb and VRBO, many people owning second homes have been able to pick a few weeks to rent it out versus having the house sit empty.
WHAT ABOUT A STRAIGHT INVESTMENT PROPERTY TO JUST USE AS A RENTAL?
The key is to have positive cash flow. If the mortgage payment, taxes and insurance run $4,000 a month, and you’re collecting $5,000 a month, then that’s a phenomenal investment because now you have other people paying off your mortgage.
There are also very good tax advantages you can get when you own an investment property because you’re writing off everything that you spend on the house. When you buy an investment property, you are required to put down 20% - 25%, which is much more than the 3% down that is required for a primary residence.
Make sure you save six months of rental income for any type of necessary repairs.
HOW CAN RATE’S “RATE REDUCE” TEMPORARY BUY DOWN PROGRAM MAKE HOMEOWNERSHIP AND INVESTMENTS MORE AFFORDABLE?
A temporary buy down reduces the interest rate on your mortgage for the first couple of few years. Rates can be reduced up to 3% lower than the current market rate for the first year and then it gradually increases each year. Clients do have the ability to refinance at any time if it makes sense to do so.
INVESTING IN LUXURY LIVING
A Stunning Townhome Offering Resort-Style Living Minutes from NYC Transportation and the Jersey Shore
ARTICLE BY BENJAMIN MEYER
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
New Jersey is a state full of surprises. A short drive can take you from lush vineyards and vibrant entertainment hubs to scenic beaches and charming small towns. Being in media has given me the privilege of exploring so many wonderful places, but sometimes, the best discoveries are just outside our own zip codes. My latest exploration has led me to Middletown Walk, a new luxury development that offers upscale, resort-style amenities within minutes of the Jersey Shore and an easy commute to New York City via ferry or train.
For our investment issue, let’s talk about the best kind of investment—one that enhances your lifestyle. I invite you to explore 13 Linder Court, a sophisticated, end-unit luxury townhouse in the heart of Middletown Walk. Investing isn’t just about financial gain; it’s about investing time in a community that enriches your daily life.
A COMMUNITY THAT FEELS LIKE HOME
Middletown Walk is more than a place to live; it’s a place to belong. Whether you prefer the privacy of your own home or the camaraderie of neighbors who soon become friends, this community offers the best of both worlds. I’ve met professionals who work in NYC, empty nesters who now travel together, and young
couples in the early stages of their careers and families. This is a vibrant and welcoming neighborhood.
There’s something special about moving into a brand-new development. Everyone is on the same journey, settling into a fresh start and forging new connections. It’s an experience that fosters a genuine sense of community.
RESORT-STYLE LIVING AT ITS FINEST
As you enter Middletown Walk, you’re immediately greeted by the grand clubhouse—an architectural masterpiece that sets the tone for the entire community. Step inside and you’ll find an abundance of spaces for relaxation and socializing. A sun-drenched pool room, a beautifully appointed kitchen and lounge area, and a large gathering space for hosting events are just the beginning. The clubhouse also boasts a state-of-the-art fitness center, luxurious locker rooms, and a professionally designed meeting room for those days when you need a polished space to work remotely.
JUST ABOUT FINANCIAL GAIN;
“INVESTING ISN’T
A
COMMUNITY THAT ENRICHES YOUR DAILY LIFE.”
INVESTING TIME IN
IT’S ABOUT
Outside, the amenities continue to impress. The resort-style heated pool, staffed with lifeguards, evokes the ambiance of a high-end vacation retreat. There are tennis courts, a tot-lot, and impeccably maintained walking paths that invite you to explore your surroundings. Best of all, the low-maintenance lifestyle here means snow removal and landscaping are taken care of, giving you more time to enjoy what you love.
13 LINDER COURT: A MASTERPIECE OF MODERN DESIGN
A short walk from the clubhouse and pool, 13 Linder Court is a stunning three-story end-unit townhome that perfectly blends
elegance with functionality. Built by Toll Brothers, this luxurious residence offers: Three levels of thoughtfully designed living space featuring 4 bedrooms, 2 full baths, and 2 half baths.
An open-concept great room that seamlessly integrates the living, dining, and kitchen areas, perfect for both everyday life and entertaining.
A chef’s dream kitchen with a massive quartz island, brand-name stainless steel appliances, chic white cabinetry, and a walk-in pantry.
Soaring 10-foot ceilings and expansive windows that flood the home with natural light. Gorgeous 7-inch wide plank white oak flooring that adds warmth and sophistication. Private outdoor living spaces, including a deck off the kitchen and an upgraded paver patio off the ground-floor bedroom/ rec room.
PRIME LOCATION & EFFORTLESS COMMUTING
Middletown Walk’s location offers the perfect balance of suburban serenity and city convenience. Explore the boutique shops and dining scene in Red Bank, The Grove in Shrewsbury, or the waterfront allure of Pier Village in Long Branch. Sandy Hook Beach is just 9 miles away, making weekend escapes effortless. And for commuters, the Highlands ferry to NYC is only 7 miles away, while the Middletown train station is less than 2 miles from your doorstep.
A THRIVING SOCIAL SCENE
Beyond the stunning residences and top-tier amenities, Middletown Walk has a thriving social scene curated by its volunteer-run Social Committee. From cocktail gatherings to community outings, there’s always something happening. Their recent event drew 90 attendees and plans for 2025 are already underway.
If you’re looking for more than just a home—if you’re seeking a lifestyle that seamlessly blends luxury, community, and convenience—13 Linder Court at Middletown Walk is waiting for you. Now available for lease at $6,000 per month, this is your opportunity to invest in your future and embrace modern living at its finest. Call John at 973-944-1220 to schedule your private tour today!
Where Beautiful Hair Is Just the Beginning
Fabulous Flatbread
This dish is from Chef Evon Profitt, the director of culinary operations for all of Westside Concepts in Arizona. This flatbread with grilled peaches, house-made rosemary paneer cheese, soppressata, fresh mint, and pistachios with a balsamic drizzle is to die for.
Grilled Peach Flatbread with House-Made Rosemary Paneer Cheese
Yield: 4 flatbreads
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 peaches cut into 8 pieces each
• 12 slices soppressata or any salami
• Fresh mint
• 1 tbsp. olive oil
• ¼ cup pistachios, chopped
• Balsamic reduction
• 4 baked naan bread
FOR THE PANEER CHEESE:
• 6 cups whole milk
• 2 tbsp. rice wine vinegar
• ½ tbsp. fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tsp. kosher salt
HOW TO MAKE PANEER CHEESE:
Paneer cheese is made by curdling milk using an acidic additive such as lemon juice or vinegar. Paneer cheese does not use any kind of rennet, nor fermentation or aging.
In a pot, bring 6 cups of whole milk to 200 degrees. Once milk has reached temp., stir in the 2 tbsp. of vinegar and turn off heat; milk will begin to separate. Allow milk to curd for 5 minutes, strain whey and curds into a cheesecloth-lined colander. Transfer curds to a mixing bowl and add chopped rosemary and 1 tsp. kosher salt, mix ingredients together, reserve the cheesecloth for the next step. Place the curds back into the cheesecloth, pull the corners of the cloth together, ring out excess whey from the curds, and hang for 30 minutes to continue draining. Once the curds have drained, place cheesecloth-wrapped curds back into the colander and place a heavy item on top, in order to press the curds into shape and press more of the whey from the cheese, for 3-4 hours. Use cheese fresh or keep refrigerated up to 4 days.
FLATBREAD:
Brush olive oil onto both sides of naan flatbread, and place in oven on rack for 10 minutes at 400 degrees, or grill for 2 minutes each side. Grill peach slices for 2 minutes each side, or place in oiled sauté pan till each side begins to caramelize. On a cutting board, lay flatbread down, and place grilled peach slices around flatbread. Take small pieces of Paneer cheese and place throughout over the peaches. Be creative and find place for the soppressata or salami of your choice. Garnish with crushed pistachios and torn fresh mint. Cut flatbread, transfer to serving plates, and drizzle with balsamic reduction.
“I love the use of fresh, locally sourced peaches, and giving people the chance to make an easy, versatile cheese at home with ingredients that many already have in their refrigerators and pantries.”
