Jay Spaziano
Heart of the Home
Go Green!
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Go Green!
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Dear Readers,
I hope this letter finds you in good health and good spirits.
I recently had the privilege of speaking to students at The Pennington School about the real estate industry during Career Day, and I have two key takeaways to share. First, the students always impress me; they are wise beyond their years and ask such thoughtful questions. Secondly, helping people make a move is so much more than a business transaction—recognizing that is key. It’s a unique dance of emotional and financial elements that can lead to new and exciting opportunities. It’s a time to reinvent, regroup, and reinvigorate.
We already knew the many benefits of living in and around Bucks County, but it’s nice to see that The New York Times has caught on with their recently published article, “How Sleepy Bucks County Became a Rival to the Hamptons.” Look at us now!
Hope you enjoy!
Gina Spaziano
Gina & Jay Spaziano
Jay Spaziano Real Estate
1113 General Washington Memorial Blvd. Washington Crossing, PA 18977 (215) 860-2800
gina@jayspaziano.com jayspaziano.com
When winter's chill sets in, creating a cozy and inviting home becomes essential for comfort and warmth. Here are some tips to transform your home into a snug winter haven.
OONE OF THE EASIEST WAYS to add warmth is through textiles. Layer soft, thick blankets and throws on your couches and chairs. Opt for materials like wool, fleece, and faux fur, which not only add warmth but also a touch of luxury. Don’t forget to swap out lighter curtains for heavier drapes, which help insulate your home against the cold.
Lighting plays a crucial role in creating a cozy atmosphere. Incorporate warm, soft lighting through table lamps, floor lamps, and string lights. Candles are another excellent way to enhance the ambiance; choose scented candles with winter fragrances like cinnamon, vanilla, or pine to evoke the season's spirit.
Hardwood and tile floors can feel chilly during winter months. Place plush area rugs in living areas, bedrooms, and hallways to add warmth underfoot and a layer of insulation. Rugs in rich, deep colors or patterns can also add visual warmth and a sense of comfort.
If you have a fireplace, make it the focal point of your room. Arrange your furniture to face the fireplace, creating an inviting spot for family and friends to gather. If a real fireplace isn’t an option, consider an electric fireplace or even a decorative one to add that cozy element.
Designate a cozy corner or nook for reading or relaxing. Include a comfortable chair, a soft throw blanket, and a small table for your warm beverage. This can be a great way to create a personal retreat within your home where you can unwind and escape the cold.
Incorporate warm colors into your decor. Use shades of red, orange, and yellow, which can psychologically make you feel warmer. This can be done through cushions, artwork, or even a new coat of paint on an accent wall.
Embrace winter-themed decorations like wreaths, pinecones, and fairy lights. These elements can make your home feel more festive and welcoming. A bowl of seasonal fruits or a vase of winter flowers can also add a touch of natural beauty.
Use essential oils or diffusers with cozy scents like cedarwood, lavender, or peppermint. Additionally, play soft background music or nature sounds to create a relaxing and serene environment.
By incorporating these elements, you can create a warm and inviting space to enjoy the winter season. Whether you're curling up with a good book or hosting a holiday gathering, a cozy home provides the perfect backdrop for making winter memories. ●
Incorporate warm, soft lighting through table lamps, floor lamps, and string lights.
TTHE NEWTOWN HARDWARE HOUSE has been in continuous operation from the same location in the heart of Newtown, Pennsylvania, since its establishment in 1869. No matter where you grew up, for those of us old enough to remember, the wooden floors and 19th-century store fixtures will evoke nostalgic memories of family outings to the local hardware store. Unfortunately, over 98% of these iconic stores have disappeared forever from the American retail landscape. Only a very few survive today— Newtown Hardware is one of these survivors.
The Newtown Hardware House has been in continuous operation since 1869, which ranks as the longest tenure for any single business in Newtown.
The Newtown Hardware House was built in 1869 by Cyrus Hillborn and Harrison C. Worstall at 106-108 South State Street. 108 South State Street was a hardware store operated by Hillborn and Worstall, while 106 South State Street was a dry goods store run by George E. Dolton. Mr. Dolton sold his side to George H. McMaster in 1908. When McMaster died in 1927, both sides of the store were taken over by H.C. Worstall, and later bought out by John J. Burns. After Burns passed away in 1955, Robert M. Davis purchased the business and managed it until 1985, when it was taken over by C. David Callahan. In 2012, Callahan sold the business to William Newell of Newtown and stayed on as a part-time employee.
On March 4, 1899, the Newtown Hardware House was destroyed by fire. The blaze, believed to be the work of burglars, was one of the worst in Newtown's history. The building was rebuilt to the exact specifications of the original and reopened by Christmas of the same year. Today, when looking at the rear wall, the lower left (northern) portion of the structure reveals a distinct brick line outlining the surviving pre-1899 brickwork. The Newtown Hardware House has been in continuous operation since 1869, which ranks as the longest tenure for any single business in Newtown.
At the Newtown Hardware House, you'll find knowledgeable staff and an amazingly wide variety of products packed tightly and efficiently
into two levels and 5,000 square feet of retail and light industrial space. They also offer a range of services, including key cutting, glass cutting, window glazing, blade sharpening, reupholstery, screen repair and replacement, lamp rewiring, and small repairs. On your next visit, be sure to pick up a bag of the best cookies ever. Handmade in small batches, they're packaged one dozen per bag, and frozen immediately to preserve freshness. A portion of each sale funds pancreatic cancer research at the University of Pennsylvania Abramson Cancer Center.
Plan a visit soon and experience retail hardware the way it used to be. ●
An exquisite country estate offering picturesque views from every room and incredible space while maintaining timeless details and classic charm.
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2. Tap the notification to open the link View this home online!
Set amidst 10+ acres in the heart of Buckingham Township with your own private pond, this stunning Zaveta custom home welcomes you at every turn with quality craftsmanship, premium amenities and a magnificent landscape. Beautifully updated and distinct, the entry is memorable with its tree lined drive leading to a circular courtyard which overlooks the manicured grounds. Classic moldings adorn the formal living space with gas fireplace which flows effortlessly into the elegant formal dining room. The centerpiece of the home is the gourmet kitchen and certainly a cook's dream with a remarkable oversized island, quartz counters and a suite of high-end stainlesssteel appliances including a paneled Sub Zero refrigerator and 6 Burner Wolf range. Take in the serene pond views during meals in the sun-filled dining nook. Adjacent is the spacious gathering room, with its stone floor-to-ceiling fireplace which welcomes any size gathering. A wall of windows with French doors leads to the magnificent terrace, perfect for alfresco dining with amazing views at every turn. Rounding out the main level is a private study, spacious laundry room and stylish half bath. Upstairs, the primary suite is in a world of its own with two massive walk-in closets outfitted with custom organizers, a luxurious smokey gray and white marble bath that includes an oversized walk-in shower, freestanding soaking tub and separate water closet. One bedroom is ensuite and the remaining two secondary bedrooms share a jack and jill bath. Descend to the incredible walk out lower level, sure to be the home to many celebrations, which offers multiple living spaces, a full bath, a game room with full bar area, and opens to a delightful paver patio complete
with built-in grill on one side and an enclosed wood-lined ceiling patio on the other. Elegant details such as arched doorways, transoms, skylights, extensive moldings, hardwood floors and beautifully designed outdoor living spaces including a pergola covered deck and gazebo by the pond will welcome you at every turn. Enjoy roaming the lush, landscaped grounds connected by blue stone walkways, standing on the dock and feeding the koi or paddling in the pond to your very own island. With a 3-car garage, generator and located in award-winning Central Bucks School District, this exceptional estate offers unparalleled luxury and tranquility just minutes from Doylestown and New Hope for dining, nightlife and shopping and is conveniently situated for access to Philadelphia, New Jersey and New York. Schedule your private tour today. ●
AANGEL ON A LEASH is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit therapy dog program that provides volunteer therapy dog handler teams, known as Champions, to visit with anyone that would benefit from the human-canine bond in enhancing human health and quality of life. They currently offer services in Bucks County, Pennsylvania and Mercer County, New Jersey areas. All handler-dog teams are tested, certified, and registered by Angel on a Leash. Additionally, during scheduled visits, their Champion teams are insured by Angel on a Leash.
Pet therapy is an extremely rewarding experience for all humans involved. Their therapy dogs provide unconditional love and a calming experience during visits, while recipients receive the benefit of mental and physical stimulation. It's a win-win for all.
Currently, their teams can be found at all Jefferson Health locations, St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children, several senior facilities, first responder facilities, schools, universities, and most area libraries. On a weekly basis, their teams can be seen bringing comfort and smiles.
Over time, their reading programs have expanded. Why have a dog in a library? Well,
literacy is very important. Reading with a dog not only encourages empathy but also provides a non-judgmental venue for a child to read while their dogs lay quietly beside them. The canine-human connection is important for everyone, ensuring no one feels alone. It has been scientifically proven that being with a therapy dog can lower blood pressure and help relieve anxiety, aiding us in coping with the world we live in.
Angel on a Leash participates in many community events where they engage with the community and share their mission. Their teams are mentored throughout their journey as therapy dog handlers and receive ongoing training.
Their annual fundraiser dog walk, held in October, is an opportunity for them to come together, have fun with raffles, games, prizes, and meet new people. They feel blessed to share many stories of how their dogs connect with so many individuals, and that’s why they also give back to the community.
Last year, they once again made a donation to a local dog training facility for veterans. Their most rewarding contribution is their universal chip finder donation. Seeing so many
lost dogs, the Angel on a Leash board members decided to invest in five area police departments and provide them with the chip readers. They are happy to say the feedback was immediate. Several lost dogs were spared overnight stays in kennels as the dogs were reunited with their families.
Angel on a Leash is always ready to welcome new members and visit new facilities. ●
To volunteer, donate or for more information, visit
Creating a marshmallow snowman for a snowman's hot tub is a delightful and fun project, perfect for winter gatherings. They are so easy to make and kids love them. Here’s a step-by-step guide to crafting these adorable treats.
● 4 toothpicks
● 6 large marshmallows
● 4 pretzel sticks, cut in half
● 2 orange jelly beans or candy corn, cut tip of one end off
● Black writing gel
Instructions
1. Using 2 toothpicks to secure, assemble 3 marshmallows into a snowman body. Repeat with
remaining marshmallows and toothpicks. Use pretzel stick halves to create arms and legs, pushing into marshmallows.
2. Press cut end of jelly beans into the top marshmallows to create noses. Use writing gel to create eyes, mouth and buttons.
3. Prepare your favorite hot chocolate recipe and set snowman on top. Change the orientation of your marshmallows for some fun variation. Enjoy!
Ingredients
● 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
● 1 cup milk chocolate chips
● mini marshmallows
● 1 silicone square-shaped ice cube tray
● 6 plastic spoons or popsicle sticks
Instructions
1. Place the chocolate into a microwave safe bowl.
2. Melt in the microwave according to the package instructions.
3. Place 1/3 cup of the melted chocolate into each compartment of the ice cube mold.
4. Add mini marshmallows to the top and gently press down to make sure all the marshmallows are touching the chocolate.
5. Add the spoons/sticks to the middle of each mold.
6. Place in the freezer for 15-20 minutes or until completely set.
7. Heat up 2 cups of milk a small sauce pan over medium heat for a few minutes. Once heated, pour into a large mug and melt the hot chocolate spoon until smooth. Makes 2 servings for 1 spoon.
$1,145,000
The real estate market in Bucks County proved again to be resilient. We’ve seen a combination of rising prices, continued demand, and a steady flow of buyer interest. Momentum, along with experience, dedication, and service, matters in navigating this market. Below is a recap of our listings which sold in 2024.
See what our clients are saying!
“We met Gina Spaziano more than 15 years ago when purchasing a new build, investment property. Her professionalism and understanding of the market and the process helped us make a solid investment choice. She continued to help us manage that property.
So, there was no decision to be made years later when it was time to return to Pennsylvania and downsize into an active adult community.
We called Gina. She took the time to understand our current needs and helped us find and purchase our new home. We appreciate Gina’s personal attention and her commitment to us. She made us feel like family. Thank you, Gina.”
Jeff and Tammy M. "