Nearly 60 Percent of New Home Buyers Rely on Low Down-Payment Mortgages

Posted November 9, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: first time buyer

Highly regarded housing consultant.  John Burns Real Estate Consulting, house4salerecently released a survey of home builders regarding the type of financing their buyers’ used.  The survey states that almost 60 percent of new home buyers relied on low down-payment mortgages from the government.  

20 percent of buyers used conventional financing, 7 percent got a jumbo loan and 7 percent of buyers paid cash.

Other important facts that were included in the survey was that the total of unsold finished inventory has dropped and sales are slow, particularly among builders who do not have a lot of appeal to first-time home buyers.

For more great information go to Look What $334,000 Buys You in Hoboken.

As a top Hoboken REALTOR, I can help you through the entire process of buying your first home. If you are looking for assistance in finding the perfect home in Hoboken, contact Eddie Perez at (201) 344-2886 or go to Hoboken Condo Expert.

First Time Home Buyer Tips

Posted November 9, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: first time buyer

Tags:

It is a great time to be a first-time home buyer in this market.for_sale_sign(1) Existing single-family home prices are down and interest rates are near historic lows. And you can’t forget about the first-time buyer $8,000 tax credit.

Following are a few first-time home buyer tips you may want to consider:

1. Think about the long term future. Purchasing a home requires long-term planning.  If you are unsure of where you will be in the short term future, you might want to reconsider your plans to buy.  The more time you spend in your home gives you a better opportunity to recoup your investment.

2. Don’t settle for the first home you see. Calculate how much home you can afford. A good way to do this is to browse online listings to become familiar with the market. It is tough to find everything you want but if you prioritize your needs and wants you may have a good chance of finding what will really suit you.

3. Find a good buyer’s agent. A good buyer’s agent does a lot more than just hand you listings. The agent can help you with many things, from a loan preapproval, to a home inspection, but above all is ready to put all of your interests first.

4. Remember the high price that comes with owning a home.  Many first-time home buyers will focus on the actual price of a home and forget to consider the other costs that come with it.  Don’t forget about closing costs, basic maintenance and utilities.  

For more great information go to Everything You Need To Know About a Short Sale.

There are so many advantages to being a first time buyer in this current market. For more information regarding how I can help you negotiate the best deal on your first home, contact Eddie Perez, Broker-REALTOR, CDPE. My market includes Hoboken, Jersey City, Weehawken and Union City.  I can be reached at eddie@InvestHoboken.com or 201-344-2886.

An Investigation of Mortgage Practices

Posted November 9, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: Investigation of Mortgages

Tags: ,

An investigation has been started by the U.S. House t4_housing0327committee to determine whether lenders used the property boom to encourage people to buy by using deceptive tactics.

The central part of the investigation will focus around Countrywide Financial Corp. Countrywide was bought by Bank of America in July 2009 and was considered the largest U.S. mortgage lender.

Find the latest update regarding the First-Time Home Buyer Tax Credit.

For assistance in navigating your way in the complicated process of purchasing your first home, please contact Eddie Perez at (201) 344-2886 or go to Hoboken Condo Expert.

New Tentative Agreement for the Homebuyer Credit Extension

Posted November 1, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit

Tags:

There has been a tentative agreement in the senate to moneyextend the current $8,000 tax credit for first-time home buyers.  In addition, there will be a new $6,500 credit offered to existing homeowners who have lived in their current residence for a consecutive five-year period in the past eight years.

The new requirements are that home buyers must be under contract by April 30, 2010, and close before July 1.

How Much Would You Pay?

Posted November 1, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: 5040 greenwood

Tags: ,

Obama_Neighbor_Chicago.sflbLocation, location, location, is a big factor in determining the price of a home.  But, what does that mean when the home is next door to President Barack Obama in Chicago?

A 17-room mansion located in Chicago at 5040 S. Greenwood that is next to Obama’s house at 5046 South Greenwood Avenue is for sale.

If you are interested, the home’s listing can be found at 5040greenwood.com. The website reportedly got 60,000 hits in just its first week.

The current owner, Bill Grimshaw, reportedly paid $35,000 for the 103-year-old home in 1973.

Although, homes in the area usually go for $1.5 million to $2 million, the Grimshaw house, which features period details and original woodwork, will likely be sold for a much higher price.

For more valuable information please go to I Want to Buy my Home at the Bottom.

There may some hidden treasures for you located in Hoboken. Whether you are search of the perfect Hoboken condo or a lovely Victorian brownstone, please contact Eddie Perez at (201) 344-2886 or go to Hoboken Condo Expert.

$8,000 Tax Credit Receives False Claims

Posted November 1, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit

Tags: ,

You now have until the end of November to utilize the tax creditmoney available to “first-time” homebuyers who purchase a home this month.

Baltimore Sun reporter Jamie Smith Hopkins has estimated there are 19,000 people who have claimed the credit and have not bought a home. It’s amazing that there are people who are willing to commit fraud to get the $8,000 without buying a home.

It is possible there is as much as $600 million dollars worth of bogus first-time homebuyer tax-credit claims. With a total of more than 1.4 million first-time homebuyer tax-credit claims filed since late August, says the Los Angeles Times.

In addition to this, there are numerous reports of people under the age of 18 receiving the credit.  There is even a case of a 4-year-old who has received the tax credit, says U.S. News & World Report.

For more great information go to First Time Home Buyers Are Leading The Way.

There still may be enough time for you to qualify for the $8,000 tax credit  For more information contact Eddie Perez, Broker-REALTOR, CDPE. Eddie’s market includes Hoboken, Jersey City, Weehawken and Union City.  He can be reached at eddie@InvestHoboken.com or 201-344-2886.

Why Are Comps Important?

Posted October 26, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: Real Estate Comps

Tags: , ,

When the day comes that you decide to sell your home, house4salethe best method to calculate how much to sell it for is by utilizing real estate comps. This data is called “comparable sales” or “comps,” and is a big factor in determining the sale price of a particular home. Information is calculated by gathering the figures of recent sales of nearby homes. By using these figures you can determine how much a home might be worth.

Buyers can use comps to determine a fair price to offer for a home.  Comps can also be used to track market trends to effectively determine whether a home has been properly priced.

Also, it is important for a buyer to keep in mind that the timing of comps should be considered. Generally, many sales could close within the range of four to six weeks, but some may take as long as six months to sell. The longer sales could reflect outdated market conditions and be poor comps to consider. This is another reason why a buyer needs to use a competent Realtor® to interpret the information about any home sales.

If the seller’s loan balance exceeds the value of the home, as defined by a short sale or foreclosure, the comps could be irrelevant.  

For more valuable information please go to Making Homes Affordable.

If you are looking for assistance in finding the perfect home in Hoboken, contact Eddie Perez at (201) 344-2886 or go to Hoboken Condo Expert.

Tax Credit Update

Posted October 26, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit, first time buyer

Tags: ,

Now we have to play the waiting game to see whether houseCongress will extend or possibly expand the first-time home buyer tax credit.

The National Association of Realtors announcd that Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) and House Ways and Means Committee Chair Charles Rangel (D-N.Y.) both support an extension.

What really needs to be worked out is to define how the credit should be extended and who should receive it. Some say the potential for an extension could be any where from a month to a year. If the extension does become approved, the length of time is likely to be some where between a month and a year. Another major question is, will the requirements of eligibility be changed to make the credit available to not just first-time buyers but to all primary home buyers, as well as buyers at higher income levels.

Currently, the tax credit is available to buyers with incomes up to $75,000 for individuals and $150,000 a year for couples.

For more great information go to First Time Home Buyers Are Leading The Way.

To find out all the benefits and options for preventing foreclosure, contact Eddie Perez, Broker-REALTOR, CDPE or Anoir Redouane, REALTOR, CDPE.  Their market includes Hoboken, Jersey City, Weehawken and Union City.  They can be reached at eddie@InvestHoboken.com or 201-344-2886.

September 2009 Hoboken Condo Sales Statistics

Posted October 21, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: September 2009 Hoboken Condo Sales

Tags: , , , ,

By Eddie Perez, Broker Associate

Here are the final sales figures for September 2009 compiled using the Hudson County Multiple Listing Service.

September’s Hoboken condo market statistics showed a slow down from the strong numbers that appeared during the month of August.  Total closed units were down slightly with 69 closings in August followed by 67 closings in September.  Final closed sales prices were mixed with average prices falling 2.1 % to $485,497 in September from $495,882 in August.  Median closed sales prices were slightly up however at $490,000 in September compared with $475,000 in August.  The largest drop off was in contracts signed where we saw a 21.2% decline (80 in August vs.63 in September).  

Now when I compared last Septembers sales figures with this years, I found the results reflected the challenging year in the pricing environment with average prices off 13.9% ($564,184 in Sept ‘08 versus $485,497 in Sept ‘09).  Median numbers were down less at 3.9% ($510,000 vs $490,000).  

The good news is that the closed sales and pending sales activity were both up compared with last years.  Closed unit sales were up a just 1.5% (We’ll take it!) however the impressive gain was seen with pending contracts as 63 contacts were signed this year compared with 51 during last September.  A big 23.5% increase!  (We’ll take that too!).

So what can we take away from this?  Reasonable activity is still there with value being the driving force for this activity.  It looks like there are savvy buyers out there that want to take advantage of the low interest rates, first-time home buyers tax credits, the great selection of homes while negotiating the best possible deal.

Seems like a pretty good combination.

Here are the comparisons:

  September 2009 September 2009 Comparison:
Units Sold: 66   67 + 1.5%
Avg. Price: $564,184 $485,497 - 13.9%
Median Price: $510,000 $490,000 - 3.9%
Pending: 51 63 + 23.5%

September 2009 Sold Condominiums: 

  High Low Average Median Total Price Listing Count
List Price: $1,259,000 $272,900 $505,296 $499,000 $33,854,836 67
Sold Price: $1,150,000 $267,500 $485,497 $490,000 $32,528,318  
DOM: 529 4 96 60    

Studio: none sold

 1 bedroom: 25 sold.

Average asking price: $373,969

Average selling price: $360,532 (-3.6% of asking price)

Average days on market: 69

 2 bedroom: 33 sold

Average asking price: $540,483

Average selling price: $521,030 (-3.6% of asking price)

Average days on market: 102

 3 bedroom: 9 sold

Average asking price: $741,072

Average selling price: $702,333 (-5.2% of asking price)

Average days on market: 145

 4 bedroom:  none sold

September 2009 – Pending Contracts.  These are the deals that were consummated during the month and represents the current buying activity.

Pending Condos: 80

  High Low Average Median Total Price Listing Count
List Price: $1,112,875 $199,999 $479,376 $449,000 $30,200,705 58
Sold Price: pending pending pending pending pending  
DOM: 566 7 99 67    

Here’s the breakdown:

Studio: 3 contracts

Average asking price: $279,333

Median price: $249,000

Average days on market: 94

Median days on market: 66

 1 bedroom:  22 contracts

Average asking price: $386,909

Median price: $357,450

Average days on market: 96

Median days on market: 50

2 bedroom:   34 contracts

Average asking price: $514,356

Median price: $526,000

Average days on market: 104

Median days on market: 86

 3 bedroom:  4 contracts

Average asking price: $840,643

Median price: $834,999

Average days on market: 71

Median days on market: 66

4 bedroom:  No 4 bedroom contracts

Best,

Eddie

Your resource for Hoboken area real estate news, advice, best buys and more!:  www.HobokenRealEstateBlog.com

If you would like specific information tailored to your Hoboken condo, email us direct at info@InvestHoboken.com

Search entire Hoboken MLS at www.InvestHoboken.com Then click browse Hoboken Listings

Making Home Affordable Program is Ahead of Schedule

Posted October 19, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: making homes affordable

Tags: , ,

On October 8, nearly a month earlier than the November 1 dollar-sign-769720-756981deadline set earlier this year, the U.S. Department of the Treasury and U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) announced that more than 500,000 trial loan modifications are in progress under the Making Home Affordable program.

The November 1 deadline was set in July so servicers would work at a faster pace to complete the modifications.

The Administration still believes that more can be done to assist struggling homeowners. Senior Treasury and HUD officials will be meeting to discuss how to improve servicer efficiency and responsiveness to borrowers during the modification process.

The most recent Monthly MHA Program Report, which tracks servicer performance through the month of September – ending September 30, 2009 can be found below.

http://www.treas.gov/press/releases/docs/MHA%20Public%20100809%20Final.pdf.

For more great information go to First Time Home Buyers Are Leading The Way.

To find out all the benefits and options for preventing foreclosure, contact Eddie Perez, Broker-REALTOR, CDPE or Anoir Redouane, REALTOR, CDPE.  Their market includes Hoboken, Jersey City, Weehawken and Union City.  They can be reached at eddie@InvestHoboken.com or 201-344-2886.

2008 HOBOKEN MARKET STATS

Posted October 4, 2008 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: , ,

Market Trends for Hoboken

Listing price – Hoboken
Average Listing Price
Week ending Sep 24 2008
$673,514
+0.3%

Median Sales Price
Jun ‘08 – Aug ‘08$525,000
-2.3%

Average Sales Price
$576,229
-7%

Average price/sq. ft
$520
-2.6%

Number of Sales
220
+20.9%

764   Homes For Sale          
20     Open Homes
469   Recently Sold          
11     Foreclosures

source: http://www.trulia.com/real_estate/Hoboken-New_Jersey/

 

HOBOKEN – YESTERDAY AND TODAY

Posted September 30, 2008 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: , , ,

Hoboken was developed by one man and his family. A remarkable entrepreneuer/inventor, Colonel John Stevens, purchased the island (separated from land by marshes on the west) in 1784 for about $90,000, and named it Hoboken from an amalgam of the Dutch and Indian words for it.

Colonel Stevens developed Hoboken, as a resort, beginning with the six mile path known as River Walk. Later adding a spa, tavern, hotel, and a Ferris wheel. Hoboken’s wonderful attractions received a lot of interest from large numbers of rich and famous people. Alexander Hamilton, Aaron Burr, Lillian Russell, Jay Gould, William Vanderbilt, Horace Greeley and Harvey Ward Beecher are all said to have frequented Hoboken.

I am sure if Colonel Stevens was with us today he would be one of the first to purchase a condo at Hudson Tea, 1500 Hudson St & 1500 Washington St.

Breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline, a fully supplied onsite business center, and 24-hour lobby service make Hudson Tea the residence of choice for elite Hobokenites. Ideally located on the scenic Hudson River, Hudson Tea combines exceptional aesthetic beauty with incredible amenities, including an onsite gourmet café, exclusive Residents’ Club, room service, valet, and housekeeping services, all designed to accommodate your every need.

Luxury amenities abound in this exciting revamp of the historic grounds of the Lipton Tea Company. With 40 years of experience delighting homeowners, leading national luxury homebuilder Toll Brothers City Living has truly outdone itself at Hudson Tea. Amazing 10′ x 12′ picture windows with unparalleled city views, towering 13-foot ceilings, granite countertops, and stainless steel appliances deliver the decadent lifestyle that you deserve.

A convenient commute to Manhattan with complimentary shuttle service to the PATH train, Hudson Tea’s convenient location provides residents with delightful access to the bright lights of Broadway, shopping, and verdant parks. From Hoboken’s summertime exposition, “Movies under the Stars,” to the twice a year Art & Music Festival, the Mile Square City has something for everyone. 

 

Contact me today at (201) 344-2886 to see what you are missing.

ADVANTAGES OF CONDO OWNERSHIP

Posted October 6, 2008 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: , ,

In this day of high real estate value and low interest rates, the ownership of a condo has become one of the best property purchases. This has caused developers to offer more and has created excellent value for owners and those considering the purchase of a unit.

When considering the purchase of a condo here are some advantages to think about.

Condos typically have a lower price than single family homes. There are of course exceptions to this rule. Condos are usually priced approximately 20-30% lower than comparable single family dwellings. This competitive pricing range has opened up the real estate market to many who were previously priced out of the new home market. Condos also offer a great selection of lifestyle choices that are financially difficult to achieve in a typical home.

Location is another of the attractive assets of condos. Most developments are in places that are highly sought-after, located in urban areas. This fact has made condominiums the smart choice for commuters and city dwellers.

There is a great sense of security that comes with owning a condo. Not only is there the aspect of community and neighbors close by, but there are financial securities as well. With condos being valued as they are, the purchase of a unit is a sound financial decision.

Consider “The Oz” located at 70 Adams St in downtown Hoboken, NJ is only minutes from the PATH, ferry and train. This 54 unit concrete and steel structure was built by Metro Home LLC in 2003.

Open layouts with beautifully designed kitchens and bathrooms make this building one of Hoboken’s premier residences. All the units feature hardwood floors, crown and chair rail molding.

 This luxury building has a full gym, and on-site parking.

 

 

 

Let me be your tour guide.  You may contact me at (201) 344-2886 or (201) 222-7550

HOW TO CARE FOR BRAZILIAN HARDWOOD FLOORS

Posted October 12, 2008 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: , ,

With Brazilian hardwood floors becoming so popular in the prestigious condos of Hoboken, I would like to offer some tips on how to maintain the beauty of these products. 

Fill a wash tub or bucket with 4 inches of warm water and then add approximately 10% Windex. Remember to never use vinegar, or wax on this type of floor. Take a cotton hand towel and submerge it. Ring it out so the water does not drip when you hold it up. Put the towel flat on the floor.  With a lightweight push broom in the middle of the towel, flip the front portion on the towel over the broom to hold it in place. Walk the floor, slowly behind the wet cleaning path, moving the broom head to a clean area of the towel and then flipping the towel over to the clean side. Re-rinse the towel out 2 or 3 times and repeat this process until all the dirt is gone.

Do this monthly. Vacuum daily with a vacuum head that has felt bumpers and wipe up sticky spills immediately with Windex and a wet paper towel.

Don’t forget to place stick-on felt glides on every thing that touches the floor. Table legs, chairs, bottom of trash cans, etc. To move furniture around, you can cut carpet into 4 x 4 inch pieces and put them under legs. Slide the furniture with carpet side face down.

By keeping all of this in mind will help you enjoy the beauty of your floors for a lifetime. 

FALL IN LOVE AGAIN WITH YOUR HOME AGAIN

Posted October 12, 2008 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: , ,

Did you ever consider that putting away family photos and cleaning off countertops could help you get the best selling price for your home? Something as simple as cleaning and rearranging your home can mean a lot to potential buyers. Pick up the extra books lying around, get rid of moldy caulk in the bathroom and look into renting furniture to fill up bare spaces. Make your home clean, organized, and welcoming to potential buyers.

Staging a home for sale can be one of the best decisions a seller can make.   Home staging can turn a cold and unattractive looking property into a warm and lovely home. A home to be proud of.

There are sellers who are reluctant to spend the money on home staging and this can be short-sighted. When home staging has been done the increased purchase price more than covers the cost of staging. Sellers have at times received a 10 – fold return on their investment, usually within a few months.   Staged homes usually sell faster and with more satisfied buyers.

Here is a list of things to consider:

Staged Homes sell quicker with a bigger impact.

Staged homes get higher offers.

Staged homes look better in the MLS pictures, attracting more potential buyers.

Staged homes have an edge over competing properties, and the staging can often seal the deal in the sellers favor.

People need a fresh set of eyes in their house. Sometimes you get used to clutter in your home and you don’t even notice it anymore. Home staging is something to consider when it is time to sell.

FORECLOSURE PREVENTION TEAM READY TO HELP IN HUDSON COUNTY

Posted October 12, 2008 by eddieperez
Categories: Distressed Properties

Tags: , ,

Regardless of the reasons given for the current mortgage crisis in the United States, the reality is that we are faced with more homeowners in financial distress than at any other time in the history of real estate.

In these challenging times, homeownership can sometimes become more of a burden than a joy. Over 6 million homeowners are more than a month late on their mortgage payments or are in the foreclosure process.

Hoboken’s own Eddie Perez and Anoir Redouane of the “Invest Hoboken Team” at Robert De Ruggiero Inc., Realtors have earned the designation of Certified Distressed Property Experts (CDPE), and are ready to help families in need of their services. “I will help homeowners find the best solution to whatever financial crisis they are facing,” says Eddie Perez. “I am fully informed of the issues and know the detailed processes and procedures for working with and through banks. There are many options that borrowers can take to prevent a foreclosure and we help our clients identify the options that are best suited for their situation.”

Residential real estate has many specialized areas, and many agents take specific courses to deepen their understanding and build upon the foundations they learned when acquiring their real estate license. By improving their skills, these agents can better serve their clients. The Distressed Property certification is one of the most important certifications in today’s market; it gives agents a full understanding of the complexities of short sales, pre-foreclosure, and foreclosures. 

One thing remains the same for the majority of homeowners: the best solution for an individual wanting to sell a property is to seek the guidance, counsel, and services of an Educated, Licensed Real Estate Agent.

Says Anoir Redouane, “sometimes the best solution can be a ‘short sale’—when a negotiation is entered into with the homeowner’s mortgage company or companies to accept less than the full balance of the loan at closing.” This should be one of the last options before foreclosure but it carries benefits over foreclosure.  “These really are challenging times.  Our research shows that there are over 1500 homeowners preparing for pre-foreclosures or bank auctions in our area” states Anoir, “and we feel it critical that they be aware of better alternatives.”

Owners in pre-foreclosure should seek out a Certified Distressed Property Expert as soon as possible.  These owners will need assistance in various form sduring the 10 month timeline that New Jersey currently follows from the Notice of Default (NOD) filing until the foreclosure sale.

To find out all the benefits and options for preventing foreclosure, contact Eddie Perez, Broker-REALTOR, CDPE or Anoir Redouane, REALTOR, CDPE.  Their market includes Hoboken, Jersey City, Weehawken and Union City.  They can be reached at eddie@InvestHoboken.com or 201-344-2886.

TOP TEN EATING ESTABLISHMENTS IN HOBOKEN

Posted October 15, 2008 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: , , ,

Are you craving for a great Cuban-style meal, or a delicious steak?  Look no more, Hoboken is a wonderful place with a wide variety of establishments that offer tantalizing meals to tempt your appetite. Following is a list from tripadvisor.com rating the top ten restaurants in Hoboken.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1.    La Isla

2.    Anthony David’s Gourmet

3.    Grimaldi’s Coal Brick Oven

4.    Amanda’s

5.    Rita’s Water Ice

6.    Cucharamama

7.    Arthur’s Tavern

8.    3 Forty Grill

9.    Karma Kafe

For a more comprehensive list go to :

http://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurants-g46515-Hoboken_New_Jersey.html

THE HEAVY PRICE OF OWNING A HOME

Posted October 16, 2008 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: , , , ,

All major categories of homeowner expenses increased faster than incomes between 1996 and 2006, the center reported in “Stretched Thin: The Impact of Rising Housing Expenses on America’s Owners and Renters.”

While mortgage payments increased 46% during those 10 years, utilities increased 43%, property taxes increased 66% and property insurance increased 83%, according to the study. But homeowner incomes increased just about 36%.

Renters weren’t better off: Rents increased by 51% during the period, but renter incomes increased about 31%. Landlords are facing some of the increased costs that homeowners are, including higher insurance costs, and are passing on the increases through higher rents, said Maya Brennan, co-author of the report, which was released Oct. 8.

Given the rising costs of heating oil, natural gas and gasoline since 2006, families likely have stretched their household budgets even more in the past couple of years, the center reported.

The Center for Housing Policy is the research affiliate of the Washington-based National Housing Conference, a nonpartisan advocacy organization for national policies and legislation that promote housing in a safe, decent environment, according to its website.

“The mortgage crisis is a huge issue that needs a lot of attention,” Brennan said.

But there’s a bundle of housing costs that Americans are having trouble with, she added. “Politicians need to look at this entire bundle and see if this is affordable.”

Many strapped homeowners would likely argue that it’s not.

On average, housing expenses-including rent or mortgage payments and the cost of utilities, property taxes, insurance and maintenance-went up by $5,314, or 65%, during the 10 years examined in the study. By comparison, food costs rose by $1,413, or 30%, and transportation costs rose by $2,126, or 33%, and health-care costs rose $996, or 56%, according to the report.

The report broke down some of the expenses taking the biggest bites out of household budgets:

- Natural gas and heating oil. Heating-oil prices increased 131% between 1996 and 2006, from $1.05 to $2.43 per gallon; the cost jumped another 52% to $3.69 per gallon in 2008. Natural gas prices went from $6.34 per thousand cubic feet in 1996 to $13.75 in 2006; prices increased to $14.30 in 2008.

- Transportation. Gas prices nearly tripled in the last six years, going from $1.38 a gallon in 2002 to $4.05 a gallon in 2008. Prices have dropped more recently, Brennan noted, but are still up substantially when compared with several years ago.

- Mortgage principal and interest payments. From 1995 to 2005, mortgage principal and interest payments increased almost 46%. The figures don’t fully reflect increased costs associated with adjustable-rate mortgage resets, which are still continuing.

- Property taxes. On average, tax bills increased nearly 66% between 1996 and 2006-less than half of the 137% rise in average home values. But many jurisdictions limit rates of growth in property-value assessments, a reason that tax bills in some areas may still continue to rise.

- Property insurance. The average cost of homeowner insurance rose almost 83% between 1995 and 2005, a result of disaster risks and increases in construction costs, the cost of repairs and the increase in mortgage amounts. Recent disasters, including Hurricane Katrina, flooding in the Midwest and fires in California, caused large losses, and premiums may increase as a result.

Since it’s a bundle of household costs that consumers are struggling with, there needs to be a bundle of solutions to address the problems, Brennan said.

“To get the American economy back on its feet, we will need to look comprehensively at helping Americans afford the full ‘costs of place,’ which include the costs of shelter, utilities and transportation,” said Center for Housing Policy chairman John McIlwain, a senior resident fellow at the Urban Land Institute, in a news release.

The group is recommending a systematic approach to making buildings more energy efficient to ease rising energy costs. It also recommends incentives for more affordable housing near mass transit and job centers, and increased investment in public transit.

Source:  http://rismedia.com/wp/2008-10-09/mortgage-bills-arent-the-only-housing-costs-crimping-budgets/

TOP TEN CONDO DOGS

Posted October 18, 2008 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: , , , , , , , ,

Many people living in an apartment or condo may delay adopting a dog, with the fear that their pet will not get enough exercise without a  backyard to play in.  But there are many dogs made just for an indoor lifestyle, and the following is a list of the top ten.  The primary considerations while compiling this list were the dog’s energy levels,  exercise requirements, and playfulness.  The lower the requirement, the higher up the dog will place on the list.  To a lesser degree, a  dog’s resistance to the elements (i.e. heat and cold) were also  considered.  The lower the resistance, the higher the dog will place  on the list.

#1: Pekingese
Number one on the list of best indoor dogs is the devoted Pekingese.  The Pekingese enjoys a leisurely walk outdoors, but is equally happy with a romp inside.  It is very sensitive to hot weather, and can easily die of heat prostration.  Therefore, it is recommended that  your home be air conditioned if you decide to adopt this breed.  It can spend time outdoors in cool weather, but should sleep inside.  The Pekingese is the ideal condo dog.

#2: Basset Hound
The Basset Hound is one of the most good natured and easygoing of  breeds.  They do need daily exercise to keep fit, but this requirement can be satisfied with a short walk or indoor game.  Do keep in mind though, that the Basset would rather be relaxing!

#3: English Toy Spaniel
The English Toy Spaniel (and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel) enjoys a life of leisure!  It is the perfect lapdog, but still playful and attentive.  Although it enjoys a nice walk on a leash or a fun game in the house, the English is not overly active and its exercise requirements can be met with minimal effort.

#4: Bulldog
The Bulldog is among the most docile and mellow of dogs.  They appreciate a daily outing, but cannot tolerate hot humid weather.  Your Bulldog should not be expected to walk or jog great distances, or to jump from any heights.

#5: Boston Terrier
The Boston Terrier is well mannered indoors, but saucy and playful whenever the chance arises. Most of its exercise requirements can be met with a short daily walk, but keep in mind the Boston is especially intolerant to heat. Some of these dogs tend to bark a lot.

#6: Lhasa Apso
Despite its lapdog appearance, the Lhasa Apso is a tough character!  It is independent, stubborn, and bold. Although it is eager for a romp or game, its exercise requirements can easily be met indoors.  The Lhasa is another breed not suited to outdoor living.

#7: ShihTzu
The spunky Shih Tzu is both a gentle lapdog and a vivacious companion.  They do need daily exercise, but indoor games or a short  walk outside can easily meet its requirements.  A Shih Tzu should never be expected to live outdoors.

#8: Chinese Crested Dog
The Chinese Crested is devoted to its family and willing to please; it is also good with other dogs, pets, and strangers.  They don’t mind a  short walk every day, but not in the cold.  In fact, the hairless variety will need a sweater for cold weather outings.  Vigorous indoor games can provide sufficient exercise for this breed.

#9: Toy Manchester Terrier
The Toy Manchester is playful with its family, although somewhat reserved with strangers.  It enjoys a romp outdoors, but it hates the  cold.  Indoors, it loves a soft, warm bed.

#10: Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkies can easily exercise themselves within the home, but you should also try to interact with them in the form of games.  They only  require a short walk in a familiar area, once per day.  This is definitely a dog that is comfortable living indoors.

 

Source: www.petmedsonline.com

ANNUAL HOBOKEN HOUSE TOUR

Posted October 22, 2008 by eddieperez
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The variety of homes in our city means that every year there’s a new crop of homes sure to surprise and delight even the most devoted tour goers on the Annual Hoboken House Tour. On Sunday, October 26, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., a number of generous homeowners will open their doors to visitors as a benefit for the Hoboken Historical Museum. Tour goers will be treated to an array of domestic retreats, from restored Victorian brownstones to contemporary condos, with traditional and modern décor, and always a few unique homes.

The homes selected for the House Tour change every year, but  they reflect Hoboken’s rich architectural history, as well as some of  the hottest new properties. A diversity of decorating tastes is always represented. The tour is self-guided and typically takes a  little over two hours to visit all the homes.

The Hoboken Historical Museum’s House Tour is your ticket to enter some of the most distinctive homes in Hoboken.

This year’s tour offers a peek inside nine homes, from recently remodeled older homes to a showplace for an art-collecting family to a condo in one of the newest buildings on the waterfront. Several homes were decorated by noted interior designers, including Lucretia Moroni, whose handpainted fabrics, wall treatments and floor coverings can be seen at www.fatto-a-mano.com.

The April 2005 issue of This Old House magazine listed “21 Grand Tours.” Hoboken was one of five for the Northeast. Come see what everyone is talking about.

A small army of volunteers is needed to help staff the Tour; please call 201-656-2240, option 7, or send an e-mail to volunteers@hobokenmuseum.org   Volunteers receive a  free ticket to take the tour as a thank you for serving a three hour shift as a host at one of the houses.

Source: www.Hobokenhousetour.com

 

HOW LONG WILL IT LAST

Posted October 23, 2008 by eddieperez
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Did you every wonder how long the new refrigerator and stove that came with your condo will last? Well, the life expectancy of a typical appliance depends to a great extent on the use it receives. Moreover, appliances are often replaced long before they are worn out because changes in styling, technology and consumer preferences make newer products more desirable. The National Association of Home Builders’ “Study of Life Expectancy of Home Components” gives a decent estimate by compiling life-cycle data from scores of product manufacturers and testing labs.

The following is a list of the life expectancy of major appliances in a home:

Gas ranges: 15 years

Dryers and Refrigerators: 13 years

Compactors: 6 years

Dishwashers: 9 years

Microwave Ovens 9 years

TRENDS IN PAINT COLOR

Posted October 24, 2008 by eddieperez
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If you’ve got a room that’s due for an update, bring out the brushes and look to this year’s popular paint colors for inspiration. A fresh coat of color can easily and affordably transform a space, and there’s no shortage of bold, statement-creating colors from which to choose.

Many consumers have shown a desire to bring new hues into their living space. They’re so much more color confident today, especially since they’ve had the opportunity to visualize color through examples on home improvement shows, magazines, and radio shows.

Following are several design themes that have been influencing the latest looks for interior paint:

Back to Nature - Consumer interests in green building and earth-friendly living have found a literal outlet in natural tones reflecting the world outdoors. Yellows and blues, leaf-like greens, and organic browns all star on consumers’ wish lists. Bedrooms, bathrooms and rooms including an accent wall are ideal destinations for these shades, another idea is to accent such natural color schemes with rust or copper-like metallics.

Comfort Colors  -
Stress-free shades that wrap a room in warmth continue to be popular, especially when it comes to kitchens and family rooms. To create a welcoming refuge, choose colors that sound as delicious as they look, including pumpkin orange, cinnamon apple pie, cocoa brown,  biscuit and wheat neutrals.

Stark Contrast
- This palette pairs sophisticated black and white with such dramatic tones as deep plums and clean, clear reds. Whether red or another bold shade is in the mix, polished brass metallics are great complements to stark contrast schemes, and mix to great effect in dining, living and bathrooms.

In addition to color considerations, using texture to add interest and style to a room. One approach is incorporating different paint sheen levels to lend translucency and a glass-like quality to surfaces, including unexpected and dramatic applications on ceilings.

Don’t discount the power of metallics as highlights, undercoats, and surface textures in any color scheme. We’re going to be seeing a return to more bold, brassy metallics as we get closer to the holiday season. From silver to brass, metallics are again going to be on the rise.

HOMEOWNER’S INSURANCE FOR CONDO OWNERS

Posted October 29, 2008 by eddieperez
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When you own a home, your homeowner’s insurance policy covers both the building and the personal property inside the building, like furniture, computers, clothes, etc. When you buy a condo, the insurance protection provided by your homeowners’ association only protects the structure — and not the contents of your home. Make sure to get an insurance policy to protect the contents of your home, similar to a renter’s insurance policy, to be sure that in case of theft, etc., you’re not stuck with a nicenew, but empty, home. These contents policies are quite inexpensive, and can prevent you from losing everything you own other than your home. Not sure who to call? Ask your mortgage broker for a referral or call your car insurance company — they often provide multiple policy discounts

MARKET VIEW FOR HOBOKEN

Posted October 31, 2008 by eddieperez
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Avg. Listing Price              Median Sales Price

$650,840                             $512,500

Wk ending Oct 22               Oct ‘07 – Sep ‘08

+$6,488                             -$23,500

+1.0%

 

832 Homes For Sale           Average Listing Price

436 Recently Sold                $650,840

24 Open Homes                  +1%

16 Foreclosures

 

Median Sales Price           Average Sales Price

$512,500                            $539,379

-4.4%                                  -8.7%

 

Average price/sqft          Number of Sales

$519                                   97

+0%                                   -39.4%  

 

Source: Trulia.com

HOW TO MAKE A SMALL ROOM IN YOUR CONDO LOOK LARGER

Posted October 30, 2008 by eddieperez
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Do you have a room in your condo that makes you feel that the walls are closing in? It is very possible it has more to do with the decor than with the dimensions, even if it is a very small room. Believe it or not you can make significant changes without spending a lot of money.

 Think about the following things:

1. Are your walls dark and full of pictures and decorations? Or are they light, airy and minimally covered? To make a room feel larger, paint the walls with a light color such as white or pale yellow. When choosing a color consider the amount of sun the room receives. If the room is on the north side of the condo, receiving little or no direct sunlight, a pale yellow is your best choice. If the room does receive a substantial amount of sun, a pale green or blue will work. Please refer to my previous article about « TRENDS IN PAINT COLOR.

2. Consider removing your window treatments completely. This will open your room up drastically. Heavy drapes close a room in and make it feel dark. If you want something on the windows for privacy use mini blinds in white or wall color. For softness add window treatments that are minimal in size such as a rod pocket and light in color.

3. Remove any dark or heavy pictures or wall hangings. Dark, heavy frames give the feeling of pulling the walls in. Many items on a wall will do the same thing. Instead try scattering just a few select items in light colors with light weight, light colored frames.

4. Consider painting your furniture white or covering with a light colored fabric. Using light colors, close to the wall color will make the room feel more open and airy.

5. Minimize the furniture in the room removing everything you can live without. Avoid tall book cases and any large, bulky items.

These simple changes can change your room without breaking  your budget!

INEXPENSIVE WAYS TO INCREASE YOUR CONDO’S VALUE

Posted November 5, 2008 by eddieperez
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It’s unfortunate, but today’s homeowners are facing a quick decline in their home’s value.

One way to try to avoid the trend and boost the value of your condo is to make some basic renovations. it’s not necessary to start big-ticket projects — you may not recoup all of the costs. Instead, consider the inexpensive projects that will not only improve the appearance of your place, but it could put a little extra money in your pocket if you decide to sell your home.


1) Paint

It will cost you approximately $60 for two gallons of interior paint — enough to paint the walls and ceiling of a 12-by-15 room. A little paint or varnish can go a long way toward improving your home’s value. One fresh coat (along with a little sanding and caulking) wipes out the scuffs, chips, cracks and other damage that shows wear and tear. Don’t forget to freshen up the baseboards, doors and ceilings after you finish the walls.

If you’re thinking of selling sometime soon, be sure to stay with neutral colors. For more ideas please refer to my article about Trends in Painting.

2) Basic Maintenance

A common mistake is making aesthetic upgrades while ignoring basic maintenance. New bathroom tiles mean nothing if the plumbing is faulty or the underlying wall has dry rot.

If you don’t address these problems before putting your home on the market, it will cost you when it is time to sell. Buyers have potential to negotiate a $2 discount for every $1 in damage that turns up in a home inspection.

Set a goal to complete a few small maintenance projects each year. If you are not sure where to start, think about hiring a home inspector to point out which areas would be problem if your home was on the market.

4) Install New Fixtures

Giving a room a more contemporary look requires little more than a screwdriver and some new fixtures. New hardware can completely freshen a house. Things that are outdated are things that buyers would dislike. The best part is the cost is minimal to replace hardware. New drawer handles or knobs can be replaced for as little as $2 each. There are also plenty of options out there for personalizing your space. You can even find kitchen and bathroom faucets priced below $50. You might also try consider updating light fixtures and doorknobs.

A good first impression is crucial, so enhancing your home to it’s fullest potenial is so important when the day comes that you would like to sell.

WHERE HOBOKEN MEETS THE HUDSON RIVER AND THE NYC SKYLINE

Posted November 6, 2008 by eddieperez
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edde31

Amazing 4 bed Victorian Row House in top Hoboken location! Gorgeous Victorian Brownstone home tastefully restored and renovated located on a beautiful tree lined street and moments away from all the amenities that you want. Grand, spacious and perfect for accommodating your family lifestyle or for those who wish to have plenty of room to relax and entertain or perhaps display their artwork. Desirable uptown Bloomfield St location offers easy access to NYC transportation, Hudson River parks & promenade and Washington St boutiques. 4 gracious floors of living plus full basement with storage, lovely patio and yard that’s simply to die for. Your lovely home has 4 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, two half baths, family room, large eat in kitchen with seating for 10, formal dining room, formal living room and large basement with additional cabinets and storage. Stunning original details including stately entry doors, beautiful in-laid parquet wood floors, five marble mantles, moldings and medallions offer priceless character to your home. Amazing kitchen with designer appliances including 6 burner gas DCS stove, GE Monogram refrigerator and Fisher & Paykel dishwasher. A large center island and breakfast banquette accommodates up to 10 guests. French doors transport you to your country escape … a magnificent landscaped patio and perennial garden with mature trees. Entertain or relax as you will feel miles away from the city. Includes gas lined barbeque, lighting, fire pit and outdoor speakers. Marvelous baths including tumbled marble master bath with ROMA steam. Recently updated 200amp electrical service, plumbing including high efficiency gas furnace, water heater and dual zone air conditioning. All the features you want and more! You’ll love the seamless blend of quality original details, modern comforts, excellent floor plan and fantastic location. Experience the finest in town home living. The tradition continues with you.

WHAT DO APPRAISERS REALLY DO?

Posted November 7, 2008 by eddieperez
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Homebuyers and sellers may be surprised to find out the truth about appraiserethicsan appraiser’s loyalty. An appraiser is one of the most important people in a home-buying transaction. Yet few homebuyers or sellers understand the facts about who appraisers are or what they do.

The most common misperception is that the appraiser represents the homebuyer. That mistaken idea is understandable since the buyer typically pays for the appraisal. But in fact, appraisers are hired by lenders, and appraisals typically are done not to make sure the buyer doesn’t overpay for the home, but to assure the lender that the home won’t be mortgaged for more than a certain percentage of its value. An appraisal isn’t a hist

orical record or prediction of the home’s value. Nor is it an inspection of the home’s condition. An appraiser may consider house price trends or identify obviously hazardous conditions inside the home, but the appraiser’s main focus is on the home’s overall appeal and salability, and how it compares with other homes in the area.

An appraisal contingency, which allows the buyer to cancel the deal if the appraised value of the home isn’t equal to or more than the purchase price, is a wise precaution. The contingency must be written into the sales contract to be enforceable.

Buyers should request a copy of the appraiser’s report and be sure they understand it. Some lenders provide a copy automatically; others do so only if the borrower completes a form.

Appraisers are regulated by state law, which requires them to meet certain qualifications, conform to certain standards and be licensed. Licensure typically requires many hours of education and experience, plus an exam.

The lender’s power to choose the appraiser has been controversial because some lenders have been accused of putting undue pressure on appraisers to modify their reports to fit the lender’s purposes. A proposed Home Valuation Code of Conduct would attempt to remedy that situation by forcing lenders to hire appraisers through appraisal management companies or perhaps state government agencies, which supposedly would hand out assignments on an impartial basis.

The proposed code is part of an agreement between New York Attorney General Andrew Cuomo and Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, the two quasi-governmental corporations that buy most U.S. mortgages. But it is controversial as well. How the code will be implemented and whether it will be applied nationally are issues of great concern to appraisers today.

 

Source: cyberhomes.com

MONDAY MORNING HOBOKEN CONDO MARKET STATS

Posted November 10, 2008 by eddieperez
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Following are statistics of what has sold or went into contract from 11/2/08-11/9/08. Keep your finger on the pulse of the Hoboken condo market.

ACCEPTED OFFERS:

Hoboken Condo market had 5 total contracts for last week
(Sunday – Sunday).

1 bedroom

2 condos had accepted offers  Click Here to View Listings

Average listing price is $480,000. Average days on market 150

2 bedroom

3 condos had accepted offers Click Here to View Listings

Average listing price is $534,333 and average days on market is 100 days

 

SOLD CONDOS:  

Total of 9 condos closed last week.

1 bedroom:

5 units sold with an average listing price of $383,180 and an average selling price of $374,000 (-2.3% of list price)

Average days on market was 57.  Click Here to View Listings

2 bedroom:

4 units sold with an average listing price of $611,725 and an average selling price of $576,625 (-5.7% of list price)

Average days on market was 93.  Click Here to View Listings

 

As of today there are 540 Hoboken condos listed for sale in our MLS. This amount does not include any properties that are not listed on the MLS such as some new construction and for-sale-by-owners.

WEDNESDAY WEEKLY HOBOKEN CONDO PRICE REDUCTIONS

Posted November 12, 2008 by eddieperez
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Everyone loves a discount so I like to publish the newest weekly price reductions. See if one is the perfect place for you!

1 BEDROOM

There are 11 price reductions starting at just $318,900

Click Here to View Listings

2 BEDROOM

A few more 2 bedroom condos were reduced last week.  25 homes here starting at $429,900.

Click Here to View Listings

3 BEDROOM

Just 3 homes in this category starting at $579,000.

Click Here to View Listings

HAPPY SHOPPING!

 

STICKER SHOCK — MORE ON THE REALITY OF OWNING A HOME

Posted November 14, 2008 by eddieperez
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It’s hard enough reconciling yourself to the reality of paying the monthly money_2_070105143819principal and interest on a new home mortgage. When you realize all the expenses that will be added to that price tag, it can be a real shocker. 

Bottom line…prepare yourself. Home ownership costs are bearable — people pay them every day — as long as you know what’s coming. You may even want to scale back the size of the home you’re looking for in order to bring the whole package in line with your budget.  Here’s a list of potential monthly fees and expenses you’ll encounter:

 

InsuranceYou own a condo and the association has insurance. So why do you need insurance, too? Your condominium association insurance covers the condominium building, commonly owned property, and liability insurance for the association. But that insurance doesn’t cover losses to your unit as a result of a burglary, if water damage ruins your living room walls, or if someone slips on your wet kitchen floor and is injured.

Condominium policies protect you from losses to your personal property and the interior of your unit. Shop wisely, consider bundling your homeowner’s insurance with your auto insurance to get a discounted price.

Property Taxes – You can’t avoid these either, but consider them a good thing.  If you pay them, the fire department will come when you call. Depending on where you live, you may be responsible for both city and county property taxes; call your county property assessor’s office to be sure.  Local tax rates vary, but your home is typically taxed on its assessed value, an amount equal to a fraction of its appraised value, which is the number you’re probably familiar with from the loan-securing process.  Taxes can add hundreds of dollars to your monthly payment, and the figures on your good faith estimate may not be accurate, so find out the final number before you sign the dotted line.

Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) - If your down payment is less than 20 percent of the mortgage value, you may have to foot the bill for PMI, which protects the lender against a default on the loan. This can tack on as much as a couple hundred dollars per month, depending on the size of your loan.

Homeowner’s Association Fees - If you’re buying a condominium, you may have to pay for the monthly upkeep of common areas and other shared expenses. Some HOA fees are paid yearly and are quite inexpensive; on the other hand, some Manhattan co-op fees run to four figures per month. Some states allow associations to foreclose on homes with unpaid fees, so don’t treat them as optional. Find out if your state imposes limits on HOA power, including how much fees can increase per year.

Utilities - If you are planning on upgrading to a larger home, know that the increase in square footage can pack a real punch in the form of a huge utility bill. Plan to implement some energy conservation measures, like light-blocking blinds and compact fluorescent light bulbs, to offset the tab.

Maintenance - This won’t show up in your mortgage payment, but it’s a true expense. Be sure you have some monthly budget set aside for repairs and upkeep, whether for small do-it-yourself things like replacing floodlight bulbs or the inevitably serious issues that crop up from time to time.

HOBOKEN REAL ESTATE MARKET’S NEWEST LISTINGS

Posted November 14, 2008 by eddieperez
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Check the Hoboken Real Estate Blog every Friday for the newest real estate listings of the week.  We’ll post the most up-to-date listings of condos, 1-family, and 2-4 family homes. You can then plan to see any of interest over the weekend.

1 BEDROOM CONDOS

5 new listings starting $390K Click Here to View Listings

2 BEDROOM CONDOS

8 new listings starting at $429K Click Here to View Listings

3 BEDROOM CONDOS

4 new listings starting at $629K Click Here to View Listings

1-FAMILY HOMES

1 new listing at $1,150,000 Click Here to View Listings

2-4 FAMILY HOMES

No new listings this week.

To receive specific properties as they become available, sign up for free email listing alerts at http://FindHobokenHomes.com

MONDAY MORNING HOBOKEN CONDO MARKET STATS

Posted November 17, 2008 by eddieperez
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WEEKLY STATISTICS 11/9/08- 11/16/08 

FIRM ACCEPTED OFFERS:

The Hoboken condo market had a total of 7 firm accepted offers for last week .  This was a slight improvement over the 5 offers from the previous week.

Firm accepted offers are offers that have cleared the mandatory attorney review process and are now considered a binding contract of sale.

1 BEDROOM

2 condos had firm offers  Click Here to View Listings

Average listing price is $347,000. Average days on market 66

2 BEDROOMS

4 condos had accepted offers Click Here to View Listings

Average listing price is $531,203 and average days on market is 156 days

3 BEDROOMS

1 condo had a firm accepted offer Click Here to View Listings

This unit was listed at $649,999 and has been on the market 53 days.

SOLD CONDOS:  

Total of 8 condos closed last week.  Relatively flat from last weeks 7 closings.

STUDIOS:

2 studios sold with an average listing price of $484,950 and an average selling price of $466,500 (-3.8% of list price)

Average days of market was 86. Click Here to View Listings

1 BEDROOM:

3 units sold with an average listing price of $431,166 and an average selling price of $411,500 (-4.56% of list price)

Average days on market was 118.  Click Here to View Listings

2 BEDROOMS:

3 units sold with an average listing price of $944,166 and an average selling price of $922,000 (-2.3% of list price)

Average days on market was 78.  Click Here to View Listings

These 2 bedroom stats were skewed by a $1,900,000 closing at Maxwell Place.  The other two condos sold at $415,000 and $451,000 respectively!

As of today there are 531 Hoboken condos actively listed for sale in our MLS.  They have an average asking price of $637,068.

Average days on market sits at 109 days

All of these statistics are compiled from the Hudson County Multiple Listing Service (HCMLS) and do not include  properties that are not listed on this MLS such as some new construction and for-sale-by-owners.

WEDNESDAY WEEKLY HOBOKEN CONDO PRICE REDUCTIONS

Posted November 19, 2008 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: , , , , ,

Everyone loves a discount so I like to publish the newest weekly price reductions.  See if one is the perfect place for you!

There were a total of 39 Hoboken condos that had their prices reduced last week.  Here they are:

1 BEDROOM

There are 10 price reductions starting at just $315,000

Click Here to View Listings

 2 BEDROOM

Following last weeks trend, more 2 bedroom condos were reduced last week.  24 homes here starting at $399,000.

Click Here to View Listings

 3-4 BEDROOM

Just 6 homes in this category starting at $645,000.

Click Here to View Listings

Remember, these are simply last weeks price reductions.  To search the entire MLS log into

http://findhobokenhomes.com

Happy shopping!

IT’S ALL ABOUT HOBOKEN

Posted November 21, 2008 by eddieperez
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I have come across some interesting statistics about Hoboken3329722682 that I would really like to share:

Population: 39,800

Financial

City stats

Median family income

(per year)

$82,401

Family purchasing power

(annual, cost-of-living adjusted)

$51,404

Sales tax

7.00%

State income tax rate

(highest bracket)

8.97%

State income tax rate

(lowest bracket)

1.40%

Auto insurance premiums

(Average price quotes, for the state)

$2,559

Job growth %

(2000-2007)

11.97%

 

Housing

City stats

Median home price

$535,000

Average property taxes

(2006)

$5,753

 

Education

City stats

Colleges, universities and

professional schools (within 30 miles)

167

% students attending public/private

schools (located within town limits)

72.4/27.6

 

Quality of life

City stats

Air quality index

(% of days AQI ranked as good)

62.5%

Median commute time

(in minutes)

35.6

% population with commute

45 mins. or longer

33.9%

% population walk or bike to work

10.9%

 

Leisure and culture

City stats

Movie theaters

(within 15 miles)

323

Restaurants

(within 15 miles)

27,235

Bars

(within 15 miles)

2,152

Public golf courses

(within 30 miles)

417

Libraries

(within 15 miles)

553

Museums (accredited by AAM;

within 30 miles)

32

Ski resorts (within 100 miles)

32

Arts funding (Dollars per person of state funds spent on arts)

3.4

 

Weather

City stats

Annual rainfall

(inches)

46.92

% clear days in the area

26

High temp in July ° F

83.3°

Low temp in Jan ° F

23.5°

 

Meet the neighbors

City stats

Median age

32.6

Completed at least some college

(% of residents)

77.0%

Married

26.4%

Divorced

6.0%

Amount spent on vacations

(domestic and foreign, household avg. per year)

$6,309

 

HOBOKEN REAL ESTATE MARKET’S NEWEST LISTINGS

Posted November 22, 2008 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

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28 new listings hit the Hoboken real estate market last week 11/14/08 – 11/21/08.

Check the Hoboken Real Estate Blog  for the newest real estate listings of the week.  We’ll post themost up-to-date listings of condos, 1-family, and 2-4 family homes. You can then plan to see any of interest over the weekend.

1 BEDROOM CONDOS

10 new listings starting $309K Click Here to View Listings

2 BEDROOM CONDOS

11 new listings starting at $449K Click Here to View Listings

3 BEDROOM CONDOS

4 new listings starting at $535K Click Here to View Listings

1-FAMILY HOMES

2 new listing at $1,199,000 Click Here to View Listings

2-4 FAMILY HOMES

1 new listing at $1,375,000 Click Here to View Listings

To receive specific properties as they become available, sign up for free email listing alerts at http://FindHobokenHomes.com

MONDAY MORNING HOBOKEN CONDO MARKET STATS

Posted November 24, 2008 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: , , ,

Weekly statistics 11/16/08- 11/23/08

FIRM ACCEPTED OFFERS:

The Hoboken condo market had a total of just 3 firm accepted offers for last week .  This was a decline from the 7 offers from the previous week.

Firm accepted offers are offers that have cleared the mandatory attorney review process and are now considered a binding contract of sale.   This is an effective statistic for gaging current buyer activity as the “sold” statistics reflect activity from offers accepted up to a year or more ago.

STUDIOS:

1 studio had a firm offer.  Click Here to View Listings

Listed at $254,000 and has been on the market 29 days

1 BEDROOM:

1 condo had firm offer  Click Here to View Listings

Listing price is $249,900 and has been on the market 99 days.

2 BEDROOMS:

1 condo had received a firm offer.  Click Here to View Listings

Listing price is $589,000 and has been on the market 105 days.

3 BEDROOMS:

No firm offers!

SOLD CONDOS:  

Total of 10 condos closed last week.  This represents a slight improvement from last weeks 8 closings.

 STUDIOS:

No closings!

1 BEDROOM:

2 units sold with an average listing price of $487,000 and an average selling price of $438,750 (-9.9% of list price)

Average days on market was 126.  Click Here to View Listings

2 BEDROOM:

7 units sold with an average listing price of $541,785 and an average selling price of $523,428 (-3.38% of list price)

Average days on market was 66. Click Here to View Listings

3 BEDROOMS:

1 condo sold.  Listing price was 589,000 and selling price was $562,500. (-4.49% of list price)

 As of today there are 525 Hoboken condos actively listed for sale in our MLS.  They have an average asking price of $638,105.  Average days on market are now 107 days

All of these statistics are compiled from the Hudson County Multiple Listing Service (HCMLS) and do not include  properties that are not listed on this MLS such as some new construction and for-sale-by-owners.

If you would like specific statistics for your home, click on http://www.HobokenMarketValues.com

HAPPY THANKSGIVING from HOBOKEN REAL ESTATE BLOG!

Posted November 27, 2008 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: ,

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Hoboken Real Estate Blog will be closed for the Thanksgiving Holiday and will resume on 11/29.

HAVE A WONDERFUL THANKSGIVING!

Eddie

 

WILL THE LOWERING OF CONFORMING LOAN LIMITS FOR HIGH COST AREAS LIKE HOBOKEN EFFECT YOU IF YOU’RE LOOKING TO BUY?

Posted November 29, 2008 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: , , , , , ,

The Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) announced revisions to their conforming loan limits for 2009.  The new limit for 2009 will remain at $417,000 in most areas of the US, however loan limits for higher cost areas including Hoboken have been lowered to $625,500 from $729,750.  Many areas in New Jersey do not reach this lower cap and are reduced significantly from 2008.

The conforming loan limit determines the maximum size of a mortgage that Government Sponsored Enterprises (GSEs) Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac can buy or guarantee. Non-conforming or jumbo loans typically carry a higher mortgage interest rate than a conforming loan, increasing the monthly payment and negatively impacting affordability for households in New Jersey.

Even though the lowering of the cap means that the total number of that are eligible for conforming financing will increase, some market experts are disappointed that the $729,750 limit set forth in the Economic Stimulus Act of 2008 was not made permanent.  Some experts are predicting that the limit cap reduction will negatively impact both the interest rates and the availability of funds for jumbo mortgages.

If you are looking to purchase a premium property in Hoboken or Downtown Jersey City and know that you will be financing an amount somewhere in-between $625,500 and $729,750, it may be a good time to make an offer and receive a mortgage commitment from your lender before the 1/1/2009 lower limits go into effect.

MONDAY MORNING HOBOKEN CONDO MARKET STATS

Posted December 1, 2008 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: , , ,

Weekly statistics 11/23/08- 11/30/08

FIRM ACCEPTED OFFERS:

The Hoboken condo market had a total of 6 firm accepted offers for last week. This was an improvement over the 3 offers from the previous week.

1 BEDROOM

1 condos had firm offer  Click Here to View Listings

Listing price was $269,900. 20 days on market to accept offer

2 BEDROOMS

5 condos had accepted offers Click Here to View Listings

Average listing price is $688,400 and average days on market is 108 days

Note: The average price was inflated by one property listed at $1,200,000.

3 BEDROOMS

No accepted offers in this category

SOLD CONDOS:  

Total of 5 condos closed last week.  Down from last weeks 10 closings.

STUDIOS:

None sold in this category

1 BEDROOM:

None sold in this category

2 BEDROOMS:

5 units sold with an average listing price of $565,579 and an average selling price of $537,900 (-4.89% of list price)

Average days on market was 93.  Click Here to View Listings

ACTIVE FOR SALE MARKET:

As of today there are 514 Hoboken condos actively listed for sale in our MLS.  They have an average asking price of $634,654.  Average days on market sits at 112 days

November statistics will be coming to you shortly so check back soon!

All of these statistics are compiled from the Hudson County Multiple Listing Service (HCMLS) and do not include  properties that are not listed on this MLS such as some new construction and for-sale-by-owners.

Firm accepted offers are offers that have cleared the mandatory attorney review process and are now considered a binding contract of sale.

HOBOKEN LUXURY CONDO BUILDING OFFERING SPECIAL INCENTIVE

Posted December 2, 2008 by eddieperez
Categories: Hudson Tea

Tags: , ,
           

Hoboken’s best luxury condos have been offering incentives for some time now.  Here’s an example of this week’s at The Hudson Tea Building.

 
          

  Hudson Tea/Harborside Lofts   Hoboken, NJ  
  Hudson Tea Home for the Holidays!  
Residence 3G
1,385 Sq Ft 
2 Bedroom /2 Bath

$989,995
Builder’s special promotion spec unit features direct Manhattan views, and has been fully upgraded with beautiful hardwood floors, granite countertops, high-end stainless steel appliances and new window coverings!
Buy now and receive a new Home Theatre Package!

  Spectacular Waterfront Loft Condominiums from the Mid-$400s  
Studios 
735 Sq Ft 
Mid-$400s to Mid-$600s           

1 Bedroom* 
1000 Sq Ft 
$595,995

1 Bedroom + Den* 
1100 Sq Ft 
$656,995           

2 Bedrooms 
1145 Sq Ft to 1530 Sq Ft 
Low $700s to $1.4 Million

  *Only 1 Available

 

  Amenities Include: Fitness Center, Lounge, Children’s Playroom, 24-Hour C
 
      

Time to negotiate on the best properties in Hoboken!

Eddie

 

WEDNESDAY WEEKLY HOBOKEN CONDO PRICE REDUCTIONS

Posted December 3, 2008 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: , , , , ,

There were a total of 24 Hoboken condos that had their prices reduced last week.  See if one is the perfect place for you!

1 BEDROOM

There are 8 price reductions starting at just Wow……$219,000

Click Here to View Listings

 2 BEDROOMS

 A few more 2 bedroom condos were reduced last week.  13 homes here starting at $459,000.

Click Here to View Listings

 3-4 bedroom

 Just 2 homes in this category starting at $485,000.

Click Here to View Listings

These are last weeks price reductions. To search the entire MLS log onto

http://www.FindHobokenHomes.com

 Happy shopping!

 Eddie

 

MONDAY MORNING HOBOKEN CONDO MARKET STATS

Posted December 8, 2008 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: , , ,

 Weekly statistics 11/30/08- 12/07/08

FIRM ACCEPTED OFFFERS:

The Hoboken condo market had a total of 6 firm accepted offers last week which is the same amount as the previous one.

1 BEDROOM

1 condo had firm offer  Click Here to View Listings Very unique approximately 1400 sqft 1 bedroom with two additional rooms, private roof deck.

Listing price was $679,000. 77 days on market to accept offer

2 BEDROOMS

4 condos had accepted offers Click Here to View Listings

Average listing price is $519,749 and average days on market is 77 days

 3-4 BEDROOMS:

1 condo had a firm offer Click Here to View Listings

Listing price was $599,999 and this has been on the market 42 days.

SOLD CONDOS:  

Total of 5 condos closed last week.  Down from last weeks 10 closings.

STUDIOS:

None sold in this category

1 BEDROOM:

1 condo sold at the waterfront luxury building Maxwell Place.  Listing price was $900,000 and selling price was $880,000 (-2.2% of listing price).  This was most recently on the market for 37 days but had been on and off during the past couple of years.

2 BEDROOMS:

4 units sold with an average listing price of $613,225 and an average selling price of $606,125 (-1.15% of list price)

Average days on market was 119 days.  Click Here to View Listings

3 – 4 BEDROOMS:

None in this category

ACTIVE FOR SALE MARKET:

As of today there are 516 Hoboken condos actively listed for sale in our MLS.  They have an average asking price of $637,764.  Average days on market sits at 111 days

All of these statistics are compiled from the Hudson County Multiple Listing Service (HCMLS) and do not include properties that are not listed on this MLS such as some new construction and for-sale-by-owners.

Firm accepted offers are offers that have cleared the mandatory attorney review process and are now considered a binding contract of sale.

Eddie

GET IN THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT THIS WEEKEND

Posted December 12, 2008 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: , ,

Following are two holiday events happening in Hoboken this weekend:free_christmas_lights_screensaver-54144 A Christmas Carol – Theater DeBaun Center for Performing Arts is proud to present The Theater Company’s fourth annual production of A Christmas Carol. The show will run for two consecutive weekends on December 12 & 19, 2008 at 8pm and December 13, 14, 20 & 21, 2008 at 3pm. A Christmas Carol is the story of an old, bitter miser—Ebenezer Scrooge—and the chance for his redemption through the visitation of three timely ghosts and a partner from the past who learned his lesson too late. With traditional carols and English folk tunes creating the proper atmosphere, the world of Scrooge, Tiny Tim and old England comes alive, igniting the holiday spirit for young and old alike. 

In addition to DeBaun Center’s holiday tradition of producing A Christmas Carol, it also makes a point to provide support to The Hoboken Shelter, a local charitable organization that provides accommodations for 50 people and feeds 80 to 100 people every evening. At each production of A Christmas Carol, monetary donations will be collected from audience members who would like to aid The Hoboken Shelter in supporting their mission to prevent homelessness and to assist homeless men and women re-integrate into the community. Last year, over $1,500 was collected for the Shelter, which was an increase from the year prior! Tickets: $20/adults $15/students & seniors $10/children $40/dinner & show Group Discount: 30% off 20 people or more Location: DeBaun Auditorium Edwin A. Stevens Hall, 5th & Hudson Sts., Hoboken Directions: http://www.debaun.org/Directions.html Reservations: 201.216.8937 or BoxOffice@debaun.org  

Cantigas Presents Annual Winter Concert GET IN THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT WITH HOBOKEN’S WOMEN CHOIR Cantigas Presents Annual Winter Concert on Saturday, Dec. 13 at 7:30 p.m. Includes Sing-A-Longs of Popular Holiday Music Hoboken’s all-women community chorus, Cantigas Women’s Choir, presents its seventh annual winter concert called MERRILY ON HIGH!: Songs for the Holiday Season on Saturday, December 13, at 7:30 p.m. at St. Matthew Trinity Lutheran at 57 Eighth Street (at Hudson) in Hoboken, N.J. The suggestion donation is $15 ($5 for seniors and students). Cantigas Official Web Site: http://www.cantigas.net

MONDAY MORNING HOBOKEN CONDO MARKET STATS

Posted December 15, 2008 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: , , ,

WEEKLY STATISTICS 12/07/08- 12/14/08

 We are definitely in the seasonal slowdown for condo purchases as we enter closer to the holidays and new year.  It’s a great time to seek excellent values.  Also, mortgage rates have become even more affordable.  Here is last weeks stats.

FIRM ACCEPTED OFFERS:

The Hoboken condo market had a total of 4 firm accepted offers last week which is slightly off of the 6 units that went to contract in the previous week.

 1 BEDROOM

None in this category

 2 BEDROOMS

3 condos had accepted offers Click Here to View Listings

Average listing price is $711,633 and average days on market is 76 days.  One of these condos was at 1025 Maxwell Lane (1st Phase of Maxwell Place) that was listed at $980,000.

3-4 BEDROOMS:

1 condo had a firm offer Click Here to View Listings

Listing price was $549,000 and this has been on the market 78 days.  Nice value!

SOLD CONDOS:  

Total of 7 condos closed last week.  A small up tick from the previous weeks stats of 5 closings.

 STUDIOS:

None sold in this category

 1 BEDROOM:

4 condos sold.  Click Here to View Listings  Average listing price was $449,750 and selling price was $448,750 (just -.2% of listing price).  3 out of this 4 were new construction closings at Metro Stop, 800 Jackson St.  These didn’t have any price differential as the listing price was the same as the selling price.  The only resale sold at -1% of asking price.  Average days on market were 99.

 2 BEDROOMS:

2 units sold with an average listing price of $557,000 and an average selling price of $552,000 (-.8% of list price)

Average days on market was 69 days.  Click Here to View Listings

 3 – 4 BEDROOMS:

A 3 bedroom sold here after 299 days on market (new construction).  List price was $675,000 and final selling price was $650,000.  (-3.7% of asking price).

 ACTIVE FOR SALE MARKET:

As of today there are 509 Hoboken condos actively listed for sale in our MLS.  They have an average asking price of $639,907 and a median price of %574,900..  Average days on market sits at 115 days

 All of these statistics are compiled from the Hudson County Multiple Listing Service (HCMLS) and do not include  properties that are not listed on this MLS such as some new construction and for-sale-by-owners.

Firm accepted offers are offers that have cleared the mandatory attorney review process and are now considered a binding contract of sale.

WEDNESDAY WEEKLY HOBOKEN CONDO PRICE REDUCTIONS

Posted December 18, 2008 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: , , , , ,
 

Some very nice properties had their prices reduced during the past week.  With mortgage rates recently having been lowered, the values are even better!

There were a total of 31 Hoboken condos that had their prices reduced last week.  See if one is the perfect place for you!

 1 BEDROOM

 There are 7 price reductions starting at just $299,900

Click Here to View Listings

 2 BEDROOM

20 homes in the 2 bedroom configuration were reduced last week.  A nice 2 bed / 2 bath at 118 Clinton starts at $399,000.

Click Here to View Listings

 3-4 BEDROOM

Just 3 homes in this category starting at $725,000.

Click Here to View Listings

These are last weeks price reductions.  To search the entire MLS log onto

http://www.FindHobokenHomes.com

Happy shopping!

HOBOKEN REAL ESTATE MARKET’S NEWEST LISTINGS

Posted December 19, 2008 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: , , ,

20 new condo listings hit our Multiple Listing Service (MLS) in the last week.  11 of these were on the market but not listed on the the MLS as they are being marketed by Toll Brothers and are in phase II of Maxwell Place.

These homes at 1125 Maxwell Place represent one of the finest waterfront locations and amenities available in the New York metro region.  Some have excellent NYC views and are priced in the $600 per square foot range which seems to be an excellent value for prime waterfront community living.

 Take a look at them all! 

1 BEDROOM CONDOS

9 new listings starting $319K Click Here to View Listings

2 BEDROOM CONDOS

10 new listings starting at $465K Click Here to View Listings

 3 BEDROOM CONDOS

 1 amazing brand new 3100 square foot townhome right at the waters edge with direct Hudson River and New York City views.  Click Here to View Listings

 1-FAMILY HOMES

 This home’s original listing date had expired so this is just a re-listing.  Great location.  Click Here to View Listings

 2-4 FAMILY HOMES

 No new listings this week.

Check the Hoboken Real Estate Blog every Friday for the newest real estate listings of the week.  We’ll post themost up-to-date listings of condos, 1-family, and 2-4 family homes. You can then plan to see any of interest over the weekend.

 To receive specific properties as they become available, sign up for free email listing alerts at http://FindHobokenHomes.com

Eddie

 

MONDAY MORNING HOBOKEN CONDO MARKET STATS

Posted December 22, 2008 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Weekly statistics 12/14/08- 12/21/08

Ok….we are chugging along.  The condos are not exactly flying off of the market however we remain a market full of opportunities for savvy buyers and investors.  Rates had hit 37 year lows as well.  I have seen 30 year fixed rate conforming loans (up to $417,000) for borrower with good credit (720 FICO score or above) in the 4.78 range.    

Thats simply AMAZING!!!!!!!!

Here’s last weeks activity…..

Firm accepted offers:

The Hoboken condo market had a total of 5 firm accepted offers last week which is slightly better than the  4 units that went to contract in the previous week.

1 BEDROOM

1 condo received an accepted offer Click Here to View Listings

This was listed at $300,000 and has been on the market for 46 days.

2 BEDROOMS

4 condos had accepted offers Click Here to View Listings

Average listing price is $507,579 and average days on market is 144 days.  

 3-4 BEDROOMS:

No accepted offers in this category

 SOLD CONDOS:  

 Total of 4 condos closed last week.  About half the number from previous weeks stats of 7 closings.

 STUDIOS:

None sold in this category

 1 BEDROOM:

1 condo sold.  Click Here to View Listings  This home was listed at $474,900 and sold for $455,000. (-4.1% of listing price)  This home sold quickly at just 17 days (Yes…this is still possible in this market!)

 2 BEDROOMS:

1 unit sold which was listed at $575,000 and sold at $562,000 (-2.2% of listing price)

Days on market was 152 days. Click Here to View Listings

 3 – 4 BEDROOMS:

2 units sold. Click Here to View Listings  These had an average asking price of $837,000 and average selling price of $816,250 which is -2.4% of asking price.  They sat on the market for an average 115 days.

 Active for sale market:

 As of today there are 512 Hoboken condos actively listed for sale in our MLS.  They have an average asking price of $654,640 and a median price of $575,000..  Average days on market sits at 117 days

 All of these statistics are compiled from the Hudson County Multiple Listing Service (HCMLS) and do not include properties that are not listed on this MLS such as some new construction and for-sale-by-owners.

Firm accepted offers are offers that have cleared the mandatory attorney review process and are now considered a binding contract of sale.

Eddie  

WEDNESDAY WEEKLY HOBOKEN CONDO PRICE REDUCTIONS

Posted December 24, 2008 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: , , , , ,
  

Twas the night before Christmas when all through the house.  Not a creature was stirring, not even a buyer.

Really, it’s been a slow week for price reductions however see if  the perfect one for you is under the tree!

Happy Christmas to all and to all a good night!

 1 BEDROOM

 There are 5 price reductions starting at just $375,000

Click Here to View Listings

 2 BEDROOM

3 condos were reduced last week.  Quite a difference from the 20 reductions of the previous week..  

Click Here to View Listings

3-4 BEDROOM

A nice 3 bedroom row house on Willow Terrace was just reduced to $725,000.

Click Here to View Listings

 8 bedroom / 4 bathroom Hudson St. home

One of Hoboken’s largest and grandest homes sits at the corner of Hudson St & 8th.

Reduced to $2,250,000 and includes parking for 2 cars.

Click Here to View Listings

These are last weeks price reductions.  To search the entire MLS log onto

http://www.FindHobokenHomes.com

Happy shopping!

Eddie 

QUICK TIPS FOR SELLERS

Posted January 3, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: , ,

Don’t bother with major renovations before selling.334570031

Huge construction projects are unlikely to bring you a big return when you sell. Small effective updates will improve the look of your home and are more likely to increase your sale price.

Be sure to provide easy access for showings.

Selling your home is all about getting buyers through the door, so don’t make any part of the process difficult. Clean up your home so you can be ready for a showing at a moment’s notice, and make your home available to buyers and agents at any time. Never forget the little things, like easy access to parking. If a buyer is looking at several similar listings, it is the small things could push your home to the top of the list.

Remember to showcase your home’s best features.

Your home furnishings suit you fine, but there may be certain things about your choice of décor that might not appeal to the masses. Look at your house from a buyer’s perspective, and make the needed enhancements.

You don’t have to wait until spring to sell.

Spring is the biggest time for sales, but that doesn’t mean people will not buy homes all year round. Whatever season you choose, make the most of your home’s seasonal amenities during that time.

Leave your home when it is being shown.

No one but you has a better perspective about your home, but that doesn’t mean you should stay when your home is being shown to buyers.  It’s difficult for most buyers to speak honestly with their agent about a home they are viewing if the seller is listening to the conversation.

Never set your sale price too high.

Your house is only worth what people will pay for it. You may miss a lot of potential buyers if they think your home is out of their price range.

THE BEST HOME IMPROVEMENTS FOR 2009

Posted January 3, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: , ,

Is the arrival of the New Year giving you thoughts about 
selling your home? 

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If you are thinking about updating your home in 2009 for a
quick sale, you may be interested in the following information.

In an up-and-down real estate market it’s important to make the right decisions when it comes to updating your home. Find out how the top 10 home improvements rank.

 TOP TEN HOME UPDATES

                                                                        Average Return

1    Minor Bathroom Remodel                     102%

2    Minor Kitchen Remodel                        98.5%

4    Major Bathroom Remodel                   93.2%

5    Major Kitchen Remodel                             91%

6    Improvements to Balcony/Deck       90.3%

7    Extra Room Updates                                72.8%

8    Living Room Updates – Décor               66%

9    Bedroom Updates                                         52%

10  Living Room Updates                                 40%

Source: www.frontdoor.com

HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OF THE SPACE IN YOUR HOME

Posted January 8, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: , , ,

Following are easy and inexpensive design ideas for decorating to make the most of the space in your home.

 Mirrors

Hang a mirror high enough on the wall so it andrewloft1-large4does not reflect the clutter of the room. Above eye level is best. If high wall placement is impossible, lean the mirror on a shelf or mantel so that it tips upward slightly. If the mirror is hung too low and reflects the contents of the room, it will make the room look smaller.

Add Light to Your Rooms

Make sure the window treatments you choose for a room are hung to let in as much light as possible. When curtains or blinds are open, they should clear the window so the light is not blocked. Even as little as an inch or two can make a difference.

Also, hang the window treatments as high on the wall as possible. This will create the illusion of a taller window and a larger light source, making the room seem to enlarge.

Window Treatments

Try to choose window treatments in a color that blends in with the wall color. This creates less contrast with the larger items in a room and makes the entire room appear more open.

Avoid Using Too Many Accessories

To avoid the look of clutter, only display a few larger scale pieces in a small room. A display cabinet or shelf is good for smaller collectibles. Remember to group smaller collectibles together so they will be seen from a distance as one item.

Change the Layout of Your Furniture

Try to place your furniture at an angle to the walls in the room. If this is impossible place a large area rug at an angle to the walls. This will draw the eye across the room to expand the space visually and will also make a room more interesting.

Clean up

Shine up all of the sleek surfaces in the room. Clean windows, stove fronts and countertops so they are free of dust and grime. This will brighten up any room and create the look of a larger space.

January Events at the Hoboken Public Library

Posted January 8, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: , ,

Presidential Inauguration Viewing 

On January 20th beginning at noon, the library will host a televised showing of the presidential inauguration of Barack Obama.  More than two million people are expected to come down to Washington DC for this historic event.  The library viewing will take place on the third floor in the back programing room.  Light refreshments will be served.

Book Discussion 

On January 20th, at 6:00,  join us for a discussion of Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert.  After a major life event, the author of this touching memoir traveled to Italy, India, and Indonesia trying to find balance in her life and a better understanding of herself. This book discussion was postponed from December due to inclimate weather on the original date.  Registration is required. Call 201-420-2347 to reserve a spot.

Monthly Movie 

On January 22, at 2:00 PM, the library will host a showing of Groundhog Day, for adults, on the third floor of the Hoboken Public Library.  Bill Murray and Andie MacDowell star in this hilarious story of what happens when a self centered weatherman is forced to live the same day over and over again.  Set in the charming town of Puxsutawney, PA where the annual Groundhog Day Festival occurs this story is sure to both make you chuckle and think.  Join us for a classic comedy and light snacks

PREMIER DOWNTOWN HOBOKEN HOME

Posted January 9, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: Downtown Hoboken Listing

Tags: , ,

eddie-ad1Magnificent 2100 sqft three bedroom, two-and-a-half bath duplex designed for grand city living and entertaining. Custom designed gourmet eat-in-kitchen has direct access to your wonderful terrace with gas, electric and water service. This masterpiece is complete with Thermador, Sub-Zero and Meile appliances and is created with the finest of materials. Dramatic formal dining room and large living room each have their own wood-burning fireplaces. Access to the terrace is also available from the dining room. A tasteful powder room finishes off your first floor. Santos Mahogany wood graces the floors of your home and is used to create the lovely staircase to your living quarters. Upstairs youll find your stunning master bedroom / bathroom retreat, 2 generous sized additional bedrooms and lovely second full bathroom. Master bedroom has soaring 11ft ceilings, large walk-in closet, additional double door closet, a spacious master bath and a wonderful private terrace. Every fixture and detail in your master bath is a work of art in its own right. Double Waterworks sinks, stone counters and tiles, grand whirlpool tub and an immense walk-in dual headed steam shower adorn the suite and evoke a relaxing experience thats sure to be enjoyed time and time again. There is also excellent storage, central air/heat, central vacuum, security system and of course a washer/dryer. Located in the heart of Hoboken where you will want for nothing and enjoy everything!

Questions, inquires or to schedule a buyer preview email eddie@InvestHoboken.com or call Eddie Perez direct at 201-344-2886.

WEDNESDAY WEEKLY HOBOKEN CONDO PRICE REDUCTIONS

Posted January 14, 2009 by baglemae
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: , ,

Take a browse through all of last weeks Hoboken real estate price reductions.  With interest rates so low, make a move now is looking great.  Happy Shopping!

1 BEDROOM

There are 8 price reductions starting at just $319,000

Click Here to View Listings

 2 BEDROOM

30 condos were reduced last week.  Nice selections starting at $424,900 so take a look

Click Here to View Listings

 3-4 BEDROOM

 5 condos that are at least 3 bedrooms had their prices slashed.  Starting at $564,777

Click Here to View Listings

 1-4 FAMILY HOMES

2 one family homes and 1 three family home were reduced.  Time to move up?

Starting at just $699,000

Click Here to View Listings

 These are last weeks price reductions.  To search the entire MLS log onto

http://www.FindHobokenHomes.com

 Eddie

 

OPEN HOUSE CHECKLIST FOR SELLERS

Posted January 16, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: , , ,

Plan Ahead

Walk through each room and criticize the home interior-home-page_bigfrom a buyer’s perspective.

Consider getting a professional home inspection and make necessary repairs.

Sell, donate or trash anything you don’t need.

Clean, Declutter and Depersonalize

Steam clean carpets and drapes.

Get rid of all dust.

Paint interior walls with neutral colors, like beige, cream or light pastels

Repair cracks and holes in the walls.

Pale blues and greens are good for bathrooms.

Remove excess and oversized furniture.

Rearrange furniture to maximize space.

Organize room closets and store out-of-season clothes.

Thoroughly clean the entire home.

Scrub tile in the kitchen and bathrooms.

Clean hardwood floors.

Secure valuable items, including cash and jewelry.

Remove all small appliances, toys, magazines and pet items.

Remove family photos, personal collections and medications.

Remove items from the garage and store them off site.

Mop and wax/polish the floors.

Clear the countertops.

Replace outdated hardware.

Clean appliances and fixtures.

Clean and organize the pantry, cabinets and drawers.

Replace old caulking around sinks and bathtubs.

Remove stains from sinks, toilets and bathtubs.

Keep all toilet seat lids closed.

Hang fresh towels.

Appeal to the Senses

Bake cookies or burn scented candles.

Offer light refreshments.

Install higher wattage incandescent light bulbs to brighten rooms.

Turn on all the lights.

Open windows to let in fresh air.

Open curtains or blinds to let in natural light and show off views.

Turn off TVs.

Relocate pets on the day of the open house.

Refrain from smoking in the home.

Show Off Home’s Best Features

Remove rugs to show off hardwood floors.

Pull back drapes to showcase nice views.

HOW TO FIND A GOOD MOVING COMPANY

Posted January 16, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: , ,

Find a mover who is local

When a moving company is local it makes it easier for you to checkmoving-van-636 out the company, get references from people and even check out the facilities.  Don’t book your move with an Internet broker; most just hand your business over to someone you know nothing about.

Be sure to go with a licensed mover

This is easy to find out. If you are moving within the state, your state is responsible for licensing. Check your state’s website for information.

If you are moving to another state, check with the Federal Department of Transportation to find out if the company is legitimate. Many companies affiliated with a national van line use the van line’s license and insurance when doing interstate moves.

Check with the Better Business Bureau

A responsible mover may have a few complaints lodged against them, the more moves a company handles and the larger the population in their market area, the more likely it is it will have at least a few complaints. But it should show an effort to remedy the complaints. The moving company’s record with the Better Business Bureau should show that it has a satisfactory rating and that it responds to and resolves complaints.

Check Credentials

Is the company a member of a trade association such as the American Moving & Storage Association? Are their salespeople certified moving consultants? Are their moving crews certified? What training programs do they have for their packers, drivers and moving helpers? A reputable company will usually be involved in one or more of these types of moving industry groups and have some type of structured training program.

Be sure the mover carries proper insurance

First and most important is workers’ compensation insurance. Without workers’ compensation insurance, if someone gets hurt moving you might be held liable. This type of insurance substantially adds to the mover’s cost of doing business, so it could be the first area an unscrupulous moving company scrimps on.

Talk to a references

Why would they give you a poor reference? Instead, try to find someone who’s worked with the company before, preferably a local company that does a lot of repeat business with a specific mover. If you can’t find anyone, ask the company for the names of three customers they last moved.

Watch out for a bid that is too low

Although it’s important to get a good price for your move, you should treat any low bid with caution. Why are they charging so little? Are they cutting costs in a way that could be bad for you (skipping on workers’ comp, for example)?

Make sure you moving company explains its pricing

Is the move hourly or by weight? The moving charges for most local moves are based on the time it takes to complete the move. Charges on long-distance moves within a particular state are often calculated based on the weight of the shipment.

Make sure the moving company explains to you all or the paperwork

This includes a written estimate that itemizes all services that make up your estimate; get at least three in-home estimates where the moving company can see the actual goods to be moved. An “Order for Service” is the agreement between you and your mover regarding shipment dates, when goods will be loaded and delivered, and estimated cost. 

MONDAY MORNING HOBOKEN CONDO MARKET STATS

Posted January 19, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: ,

Weekly statistics 1/11/09- 1/18/09

We had a very cold week in Hoboken.  Just ask the passengers of the US Airways flight that landed safely in the Hudson River.  I happened to be traveling to Seattle that day, the same ultimate destination of that flight, otherwise I might have witnessed the landing from my living room window.  Scary but ultimately a good ending.

Our real estate market also is still scary for many folks but to those willing to brave the chill of the market, they to will ultimately have a good ending as well.

Affordability is fantastic with great deals on lots of nice homes.  Interest rates are supper low.  I’ve found 30 year fixed rate mortgages as low as 5.14% at Bankrate.com.

If you are ready, able AND willing….you can move into your dream home at a good discount.  

As of today, there are 104 condos pending to close.  These are the people that have made the commitment in this market!

Here are the folks that took advantage of the opportunities last week…..

FIRM ACCEPTED OFFERS:

 The Hoboken condo market had a total of 9 firm accepted offers last week.

 1 BEDROOM

4 condos received an accepted offer Click Here to View Listings

These homes averaged 57 days on market.

2 BEDROOMS

5 condos had accepted offers Click Here to View Listings

Average listing price is $488,560 and average days on market is 45 days.  

3-4 BEDROOMS:

No accepted offers in this category

SOLD CONDOS:  

Total of 4 condos closed last week.

STUDIOS:

No closings in this category

 1 BEDROOM:

1 condo sold.   Click Here to View Listings This home was listed at $239,000 and sold for $215,000. (-10% of listing price)  This home was on the market for 98 days.

 2 BEDROOMS:

3 unit sold.   The average asking price was $634,333 and average selling price was $602,666 (-4.9% of listing price)

Average days on market was 70 days. Click Here to View Listings

3 – 4 BEDROOMS:

No closings in this category.

ACTIVE FOR SALE MARKET:

As of today there are 500 Hoboken condos actively listed for sale in our MLS.  They have an average asking price of $647,535 and a median price of $564,838.  Average days on market sits at 126.

All of these statistics are compiled from the Hudson County Multiple Listing Service (HCMLS) and do not include properties that are not listed on this MLS such as some new construction and for-sale-by-owners.

Firm accepted offers are offers that have cleared the mandatory attorney review process and are now considered a binding contract of sale.

Eddie

WEDNESDAY WEEKLY HOBOKEN PRICE REDUCTIONS

Posted January 21, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: , ,

22 properties had their prices reduced last week.  Better prices + better interest rates = great values for you!

Take a look….

1 BEDROOM

There are 6 price reductions starting at just $398,000

Click Here to View Listings

2 BEDROOM

13 condos were reduced last week.  Selection starts with an uptown 2 bed / 2 bath at $384,400.

Click Here to View Listings

 3-4 BEDROOM

 2 condos were reduced starting at $564,777

Click Here to View Listings

1-4 FAMILY HOMES

A one family home at 1117 Garden St was just reduced by $100K to $1,099,000.

Click Here to View Listings

These are last weeks price reductions.  To search the entire MLS log onto

http://www.InvestHoboken.com  and go to Browse Hoboken Listings.

Eddie

FIVE MISTAKES HOME SELLERS MAKE

Posted January 23, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: , , ,

 1. Setting the Price too High

The single biggest mistake folks make is setting their askingmortgage-planner-button1 price too high. In today’s down market homeowners need to price conservatively or they risk turning off potential buyers. Figuring out how to set the price is tricky. Gone are the days when you can expect to sell your home for as much as your neighbor did just six months ago.. So rather than looking at how much homes in your area sold for six to 12 months ago, compare prices for similar properties currently on the market. If you see a listing for a house that’s sitting unsold for a few months, chances are the owners are asking too much and you’ll want to set your price lower.

2. Questioning the First Offer

Too many sellers reject their first offer, even if it’s close to or at full asking price. Holding out for more money is a strategy that rarely works, especially at a time when credit is tight, lending requirements for mortgages are in flux and potential buyers have less purchasing power.

3. Failing to Respond to All Offers

What if you get an offer that’s simply too low? Don’t reject it outright. See if you can negotiate. First of all, you can’t blame someone for testing the market — after all, in today’s market, many buyers are confident that they have the upper hand. It’s crucial for sellers to set a realistic bottom-line price they’re willing to take, even if it’s several thousand dollars below asking.

4. Not Cleaning up Your House

There are a number of free or inexpensive things you can do on your own to get your house into show condition. Most importantly, paint the walls. Nothing does more to brighten up a place. Next, get rid of all the clutter, excess furniture and family knickknacks. Finally, make all the necessary repairs before your first open house. If a buyer sees a small problem, say, a leaky faucet, he’s likely to wonder about larger issues like the furnace or roof.

5. Picking the Wrong Buyer

Now more than ever, sellers need to select their buyers carefully. With all the defaults in the subprime market, lenders are tightening their lending practices, making it more difficult for consumers to qualify for mortgages. So it’s critical to find a buyer with a recent prequalification letter (issued no later than four to six weeks ago) for a loan. Next, watch out for buyers who need to add contingencies to the contract, including a clause stating that the deal won’t close until they sell their own home. A better bet is to look for first-time home buyers or someone who has already unloaded his existing house.

HOBOKEN REAL ESTATE MARKET’S NEWEST LISTINGS

Posted January 23, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: Hoboken's newest listings

Tags: , , , , ,

Happy Friday, hope you’ve had a great week!

25 new condo listings and (3) 1-4 Family homes hit our Multiple Listing Service (MLS) in the last week.

Take a look at them all!

STUDIO CONDO

One studio at 2nd and Bloomfield St is now being offered at $282,000.  Great location.

Click Here to View Listings

 1 BEDROOM CONDOS

 8 new listings starting $389K Click Here to View Listings

2 BEDROOM CONDOS

13 new listings starting at $499K Click Here to View Listings

3 BEDROOM CONDOS

2 new listings in this category.  A very nice 3 bedroom at the Huntington Condominiums is offered at $899Kand another in the luxurious Hudson Tea building is at $1,149,000 Click Here to View Listings

4 BEDROOM CONDOS

Really a 1865 square foot 2 bedroom + 2 den and 2.5 bath condo in the premium waterfront building, Maxwell Place.  This home has nice park, NYC and river views and is listed at $1,328,888 Click Here to View Listings

1-FAMILY-HOMES

1105 Garden St row house home with beautiful renovations offered at $1,125,000  Click Here to View Listings

2-4 FAMILY HOMES

2 very nice uptown Hoboken homes are now available.  One with parking! Click Here to View Listings

Check the Hoboken Real Estate Blog every Friday for the newest real estate listings of the week.  We’ll post the

most up-to-date listings of condos, 1-family, and 2-4 family homes. You can then plan to see any of interest over the weekend.

To receive specific properties as they become available, sign up for free email listing alerts at http://FindHobokenHomes.com

Search entire Hoboken are surrounding area MLS listings at http://www.InvestHoboken.com and click

on Browse Hoboken Listings.

Eddie

MONDAY MORNING HOBOKEN CONDO MARKET STATS

Posted January 26, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: ,

Weekly statistics 1/18/09- 1/25/09

The Hoboken condo market continued with a sluggish sales pace last week with only 7 firm accepted offers, none with an asking price above $549,900.  Average asking price was $424,082.

 News came out today that existing home sales unexpectedly rose 6.5 percent in December to an annual rate of 4.74 million units, as the median home sales price plunged 15.3 percent to $175,400 from $207,000 a year ago. The decline is the largest year-over-year drop in records going back to 1968.

According to the National Association of REALTORS, in home sales, buyers took advantage of dramatically lower prices, especially in distressed markets like California, Florida and Nevada, where foreclosures have swamped the market.

“Buyers will continue to have an edge over sellers for the foreseeable future,” said Lawrence Yun, the organization’s economist.

As of today, there are 106 Hoboken condos pending to close.  These are the people that have made the commitment in this market!

Here are the folks that took advantage of the opportunities last week…..

Firm accepted offers:

The Hoboken condo market had a total of 7 firm accepted offers last week.

1 BEDROOM

3 condos received an accepted offer Click Here to View Listings

These homes averaged 35 days on market.

2 BEDROOMS

4 condos had accepted offers Click Here to View Listings

Average days on market is 123 days.  

3-4 BEDROOMS:

No accepted offers in this category

SOLD CONDOS:  

Total of 5 condos closed last week.

STUDIOS:

No closings in this category

1 BEDROOM:

1 condo sold.  Click Here to View Listings  New construction unit at Garden St Lofts that went into contract 9/4/08.  Listing price was $675,000 and selling price was $630,000 (-6.6% of listing price)  This home was on the market for 177 days.

2 BEDROOMS:

3 unit sold.   The average asking price was $515,666 and average selling price was $498,500 (-3.3% of listing price)

Average days on market was 66 days. Click Here to View Listings

3 – 4 BEDROOMS:

1 condo sold that had 3 bedrooms and 3 full baths.   Listed at $1,100,000.  Final selling price was $950,000 (-13.6% of asking price). Click Here to View Listings  This was marketed for 184 days.

Active for sale market:

As of today there are 508 Hoboken condos actively listed for sale in our MLS.  They have an average asking price of $652,010 and a median price of $564,950.  Average days on market sits at 126.

Search entire Hoboken condo market at http://InvestHoboken.com   then click on Browse Hoboken Listings

I welcome your specific questions.  Email me at eddie@InvestHoboken.com

All of these statistics are compiled from the Hudson County Multiple Listing Service (HCMLS) and do not include properties that are not listed on this MLS such as some new construction and for-sale-by-owners.

Firm accepted offers are offers that have cleared the mandatory attorney review process and are now considered a binding contract of sale.

Eddie

FRIENDS OF THE HOBOKEN LIBRARY

Posted January 30, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: , ,

Do you love to read–to browse shelves of the latest fiction or non-fiction, fol_logoenjoy classic literature or pick up a new magazine?

Do you enjoy the many resources–new bestsellers, children’s books, research materials, Internet access, books-on-tape, CDs and DVDs–that the Hoboken Public Library provides?

Do you think it’s important to make the Hoboken Public Library the best it can be?

If so, you need to know more about the Friends!

The Friends are a group of volunteers dedicated to supporting and expanding what the Library offers to children and adults. We do this by publicizing the Library’s programs and raising funds for the Library’s special needs.

In past years the money Friends of the Hoboken Liibrary raised has enabled the Library to purchase new books, magazine subscriptions, computers, computer furniture and Young Adult Room furniture that were beyond its regular budget. The Friends also donated the core startup collections of videos and DVD’s!

The Friends sponsor a number of activities, including the English as a Second Language Conversation Program, book sales, the “Vanishing Hoboken” oral history project, and the Library’s First Saturday programs for families

TEN THINGS FOR A FIRST TIME BUYER TO DO BEFORE PURCHASING A HOME

Posted January 30, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: , ,

 

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Research the Home Buying Process  

This will allow you to act confidently and feel like you are making the correct decisions. There is a lot of home buying terminology that you will need to learn, so be sure pick up as much information as possible to help you in your transaction.

Get a Copy of your Credit Report

You can get copies from all three credit bureaus at once by going to www.AnnualCreditReport.com. Mortgage lenders will review your credit very thoroughly, so be sure to correct any possible errors.

Fix Any Credit Errors Immediately

If you find an error on your credit report, go to the company’s website where the report came from (TransUnion, Equifax or Experian) to contest it. It can take time to clean up an erroneous credit report, so don’t waste any time.

Check Your Debt-To-Income Ratio

Mortgage lenders prefer a borrower’s debt to be at (or below) 20% of net monthly income. If your debt exceeds 20% of your net monthly income, try to pay it down before applying for a mortgage. You’ll have an easier qualification process and will likely qualify for a better rate.

Stick to a budget

Utilize an online mortgage calculator to get an idea of how much you can afford to pay for a house each month. This will give you a budget to work from and help you be realistic when shopping for a home. 

Start Saving your Money

This is one of the best things you can do before starting the home buying process. Mortgage lenders like to see that you have some cash reserves on hand. Keep in mind you will need cash reserves for any unexpected fees or costs that could take place.

Get Pre-Approved for a Loan 

During this process a mortgage lender will qualify you for a certain amount of mortgage. Sellers will take you more seriously if you have a pre-approval letter, and the process also helps identify any problems with your credit or other qualifying factors.

Avoid Any New Loans

The worst thing you can do is take out a new loan / line of credit. This will not only make the qualification process take longer,  it could make your debt “greater than 20%”, which will make it harder to get a loan.

Always Question the Listing Price

No listing price is set in stone, and everything in real estate is negotiable. So don’t accept a listing price as being reasonable until you validate it through careful research. Your real estate agent can provide a comparative market analysis (CMA) to help you with this step.

Always Get a Home Inspection

A house is a sizable investment, and the last thing you want is to find things wrong with it after you have become the owner. A home inspection will give you peace of mind knowing your investment is good. 

WEDNESDAY WEEKLY HOBOKEN PRICE REDUCTIONS

Posted February 4, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: , , , , , , ,

Lots of reductions this past week as 46 properties had their prices lowered. Affordability is way up with prices down and interest rates at very attractive levels.

Take advantage of todays buys to find the best home at the best value!

STUDIO

One studio reduced and now listed at $279,000

Click Here to View Listings

1 BEDROOM

There are 14 price reductions starting at just $279,000

Click Here to View Listings

2 BEDROOM

25 condos were reduced last week.  Nicely renovated Washington St 2 bed / 1 bath starts the list at $409,900

Click Here to View Listings

3-4 BEDROOM

3 condos were reduced starting at $799,000

Click Here to View Listings

1-4 FAMILY HOMES

None reduced last week

These are last weeks price reductions.  To search the entire MLS log onto

http://www.InvestHoboken.com  and go to Browse Hoboken Listings.

Eddie

MORTGAGE INFORMATION FOR FIRST TIME BUYERS

Posted February 6, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: ,

Before you take the big step of buying your first home, consider the following.

The first rule about applying for a mortgage is simple: the bigger your down payment is, the lower your monthly payments will be, and the less interest you will pay during the life of your mortgage. Also, if you make a down payment of 20 percent or more, you’ll avoid paying private mortgage insurance (PMI), a premium added to protect the lender in the case of mortgages that are considered higher risk.

Your mortgage is likely to be your single biggest expense. Some say you shouldn’t spend more than two-and-a-half times your yearly income. Others will say that no more than 35 percent of your monthly income should go to living expenses, including your mortgage and utilities. Just make sure you create a budget that will enable you to meet all of your financial responsibilities.

Before you go house hunting, have a lender pre-approve you for a mortgage. The lender will ask you questions about your income and expenses and help you determine a borrowing level that is comfortable for you. This will enable you to save time by only looking at homes within your price range. You will also be in a position to make an offer on a home that won’t have to be conditional upon obtaining financing.

JUST MINUTES FROM MANHATTAN

Posted February 6, 2009 by baglemae
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: , ,

layout-11

Situated on the Hudson River waterfront and just minutes from Manhattan, Maxwell Place’s ideal location gives residents the ultimate opportunity to indulge in a luxurious lifestyle and makes Maxwell Place such an incredible place to live. Walk along the scenic streets of Hoboken, past striking brownstones and quaint shops, and you’ll get an immediate sense of this urban village’s charm that comes from its historical background and vibrant culture. Hoboken’s bustling vitality permeates from the boutiques, galleries, restaurants, bars and unique places that line Washington Street. With all there is to see, do, and experience in Hoboken, you’ll never be at a loss for fun, entertainment, intrigue, and excitement. With the Manhattan ferry just steps from your door and the PATH nearby, getting to the city couldn’t be easier. When work is done and fun beckons, your choices are endless. From the famous museums, sporting venues and theaters along Broadway to the world’s most renowned restaurants to a spectrum of shopping and cultural opportunities — everything you need is right at your fingertips. Call me today at (201) 344-2886 and I will be your tour guide.

 

Eddie

HOBOKEN REAL ESTATE MARKET’S NEWEST LISTINGS

Posted February 6, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: , , , , , ,
 

View the past week’s newest listings to see what hot buys for you are out there.

40 new condo listings and (5) 1-4 Family homes hit our Multiple Listing Service (MLS) in the last week.

Have a look at them all!

STUDIO CONDO

A nice studio condo with high ceilings in a converted school offered at $299,000.  

Click Here to View Listings

1 BEDROOM CONDOS

10 new listings with a spacious 700 sqft home with modern kitchen starting at $289,900

Click Here to View Listings

2 BEDROOM CONDOS

28 new listings.  A newly renovated 2 bed starts at just $329,900

Click Here to View Listings

3 BEDROOM CONDOS

2 new listings in this category.  1336 square foot 3 bedroom / 2 bath condo with 1 car tandem parking

starts at $649,000.  Or how about 2364 square foot newly built penthouse in New Jersey’s first high

rise Green building.  Offered at $2,500,000.  Take a look at them both. Click Here to View Listings

4 BEDROOM CONDO

No new ones this week.  There are some available.  Email us for a complete list!

1-FAMILY HOMES

2 new homes here.  A gorgeously renovated single family home on Willow Terrace is now

available at just $729,000.  Another at 8th & Park in need of TLC is offered at $875,000

Click Here to View Listings

2-4 FAMILY HOMES

3 homes new to market.  A great condo conversion starts at $675,000.

Click Here to View Listings

Check the Hoboken Real Estate Blog every Friday for the newest real estate listings of the week.  We’ll post the most up-to-date listings of condos, 1-family, and 2-4 family homes. You can then plan to see any of interest over the weekend.

To receive specific properties as they become available, sign up for free email listing alerts at http://FindHobokenHomes.com

Search entire Hoboken are surrounding area MLS listings at http://www.InvestHoboken.com and click

on Browse Hoboken Listings.

Interested in Foreclosures or Short Sale properties???  Email me your contact info and we’ll

see if we can find the right property / investment for you.  eddie@InvestHoboken.com

Eddie

MONDAY MORNING HOBOKEN CONDO MARKET STATS

Posted February 9, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: , , ,

Weekly statistics 2/01/09- 2/08/09

We had 6 firm accepted offers last week in the Hoboken condo market, tracking at about the same weekly pace since the start of the new year.  Highest asking price was $788,888.  Average asking price was $556,314.  Average days on market was 104

As of today, there are 114 Hoboken condos pending to close.  These are the buyers making a commitment in this market!

Here are the folks that took advantage of the opportunities last week…..

Firm accepted offers:

1 BEDROOM

1 condo  received an accepted offer Click Here to View Listings

118 days on market.

2 BEDROOMS

4 condos had accepted offers Click Here to View Listings

Average days on market for this group was 100.

3-4 BEDROOMS:

1 condo had an accepted offer.  A small 1024 sqft 3 bedroom on Washington St

listed at $485,000 Click Here to View Listings   105 days on market!

SOLD CONDOS:

 Total of 5 condos closed last week.  Average asking price: $504,573.  Average days on market: 127

STUDIOS:

No closings

1 BEDROOM:

2 condos sold.  Click Here to View Listings   Average listing price was $344,000 and selling price was $327,500  

(-4.9% of listing price)  Average days on the market was 36. 

2 BEDROOMS:

3 unit sold.   The average asking price was $611,622 and average selling price was $562,166 (- 8% of listing price)

Average days on market was 187. Click Here to View Listings

3 – 4 BEDROOMS:

No closings

Active for sale market:

As of today there are 492 Hoboken condos actively listed for sale in our MLS.  They have an average asking price of $651,292 and a median price of $546,500.  Average days on market sits at 112.

Search entire Hoboken condo market at http://InvestHoboken.com   then click on Browse Hoboken Listings

I welcome your specific questions.  Email me at eddie@InvestHoboken.com

All of these statistics are compiled from the Hudson County Multiple Listing Service (HCMLS) and do not include properties that are not listed on this MLS such as some new construction and for-sale-by-owners.

Firm accepted offers are offers that have cleared the mandatory attorney review process and are now considered a binding contract of sale.

Eddie

 

WEDNESDAY WEEKLY HOBOKEN PRICE REDUCTIONS

Posted February 11, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: , , , ,

Take advantage of these recent price reductions to find the best home at the best value!  Condos, single & multiple family homes..all in Hoboken!

This past week the Hoboken market had 27 properties lower their prices.  The “A” homes, those in the best condition and or location, generally sell the quickest.  

Follow the value….not the herd!  

STUDIO

None in this category

1 BEDROOM

This list of 5 homes starts off with a lovely home at 9th & Park offered now at $329,000.

Click Here to View Listings

2 BEDROOM

17 homes here starting off with a 686 square foot 2 bed / 1 bath condo at 6th & Park offered at $329,000.

There’s also a 1024 square foot 2 bed / 2 bath, terrace and parking listed now at $479,000.  Take a look at them all.

Click Here to View Listings

3-4 BEDROOM

We have 3 homes here.  A 1261 sqft 3 bed / 2.5 bath is now $495,000.  

Click Here to View Listings

1-4 FAMILY HOMES

Ready to move into a row house?  Both of these have fantastic locations and tons of potential.

11th & Garden St home is $765,000.  4th & Garden (directly across from Church Sq Park) is $869,000.

Click Here to View Listings

Search the entire MLS log onto:

http://www.InvestHoboken.com  and go to Browse Hoboken Listings.

Questions???  Email me.  eddie@InvestHoboken.com  

 

Eddie

WHAT IS A CERTIFIED DISTRESSED PROPERTY EXPERT (CDPE)?

Posted February 13, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: CPDE

Tags: , ,

A property can become distressed for many reasons but the most commoncdpelogo_color_name_300dpi3 reason is a foreclosure. Any situation that has caused a property owner to have difficulty making mortgage payments is said to be in a distressed state; basically, any property which has foreclosure looming can be defined as a distressed property.

A Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE) is not only a designation earned by a licensed Real Estate Agent and REALTOR but it is also an acronym that says the person displaying it has gone through extensive training to successfully mitigate a foreclosure. This can be done by negotiating mortgage terms, helping to negotiate a refinance, or the most likely outcome, helping to sell the property.

If the value of the property drops below what one could sell the property for and satisfy debts, then the property is said to be short and any sale would be considered a “short sale”. Short sales and foreclosures have become very common lately. Negotiation of a short sale is where a  CDPE can be very helpful.

These transactions are very time consuming and tedious. A large amount of work goes into drafting market reports and gathering all the information to convince the bank to accept a sales amount that will net them less. Some of these sales can take anywhere from 6 to 12 months to close.  It is very important for buyers and sellers of distressed property to use a CDPE agent who can get these transactions to the closing table the right way

Less that 1 % of REALTORS nationwide have the training and knowledge to successfully negotiate a short sale. If you have a distressed property you can’t take a chance and give your home sale to someone who doesn’t have the tools to get things done.  I am one of the few professional agents that has dedicated my time, effort, and finances to educate myself in this sector of the market.

If you find yourself falling behind on your payments, I may be able to help you.  For foreclosure advice or personal assistance finding your new Hoboken home, visit our website at Your Home for Real Estate.

MONDAY MORNING HOBOKEN CONDO MARKET STATS

Posted February 16, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: , , ,

Weekly statistics 2/08/09- 2/15/09

Wow, a condo listed at $1,320,000 received an accepted offer last week.  Additionally, another unit listed at $789,000 received an accepted offer bringing last weeks total to 8 units.  An increase to the previous weeks 6 units.  Average days on market for these homes were 83.

As of today, there are 117 Hoboken condos pending to close.  These are the buyers making a commitment in this market!

Here are the folks that took advantage of the opportunities last week…..

Firm accepted offers:

1 BEDROOM

4 condo  received an accepted offer Click Here to View Listings

These averaged 59 days on market.

2 BEDROOMS

3 condos had accepted offers Click Here to View Listings

Average days on market for this group was 71.

3-4 BEDROOMS:

1 condo had an accepted offer. A new construction 2213 square foot 3 bedroom / 3 bath duplex

listed at $1,320,000  Click Here to View Listings  213 days on market!

SOLD CONDOS:  

Total of 4 condos closed last week.  Average asking price: $499,950.  Average days on market: 96

STUDIOS:

No closings

1 BEDROOM:

3 condos sold.   Click Here to View Listings  Average listing price was $336,266.  Average selling price was $315,933  

(-6% of listing price)  Average days on the market was 108.

2 BEDROOMS:

No closings

3 – 4 BEDROOMS:

1 unit closed.  A 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath Washington St condo.  Click Here to View Listings

Listing price was $989,000.  Selling price was $910,000, (-7.9% of listing price),  Days on market was 62.

ACTIVE FOR SALE MARKET:

As of today there are 504 Hoboken condos actively listed for sale in our MLS.  They have an average asking price of $650,565 and a median price of $549,000.  Average days on market sits at 111.

Search entire Hoboken condo market at http://InvestHoboken.com   then click on Browse Hoboken Listings

I welcome your specific questions.  Email me at eddie@InvestHoboken.com

WEEKLY HOBOKEN PRICE REDUCTIONS

Posted February 19, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: Weekly Hoboken Price Reductions

Tags: , , , ,

 It’s been a “stimulating” week.  Hopefully one of these 30 properties that had their prices reduced last week will stimulate you!

STUDIO

None in this category

1 BEDROOM

A fantastic mix of 14 homes here with newer construction including parking to gracious old world charm.

Click Here to View Listings

 2 BEDROOM

 11 condos here beginning with a 933 square foot 2 bed / 1 bath condo at 12th & Washington St offered at $414,900.

There’s also a nice 1012 square foot 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom with deeded parking at The Westfield condo elevator building

reduced to $510,000.  Click Here to View Listings

 3-4 BEDROOM

How about a gorgeous 2430 square foot 3 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom duplex condo at the fantastic Metropolitan Grand now listed at $1,299,000.  Click Here to View Listings

1-4 FAMILY HOMES

These 3 single family homes were reduced including a fixer upper at Willow Terrace now just $450,000

Click Here to View Listings

How about a 5 bedroom, 5 bathroom two family home now at $1,099,000 located on beautiful 11th St.

Click Here to View Listings

Search the entire MLS log onto:

http://www.InvestHoboken.com  and go to Browse Hoboken Listings.

Questions???  Email me.  eddie@InvestHoboken.com  

Eddie

THE MAGNIFICENT HUDSON TEA BUILDING

Posted February 20, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: Hudson Tea

Tags: , ,

Ideally situated at Hoboken’s thriving north end, just minutes 07njzo3190away from Manhattan, Hudson Tea, former grounds of the Lipton Tea Company, offers all that both cities have to offer—including beautiful, lush parks, popular restaurants, cultural activities, and abundant shopping.

The Hudson Tea Buildings have been a landmark in Hoboken for over a century. Constructed in the early 1900’s, by Sir Thomas Lipton, the purpose of the building was to serve as the headquarters for the Lipton Tea Corporation. Today, the building provides its residents with a unique loft experience. The layouts include 22′ x 14′ living rooms, 10′ x 12′ picture windows, one foot thick concrete floors and amazing 13′ beamed ceilings. After being converted from rentals to condominiums in 2005, The Hudson Tea Buildings quickly defined themselves as one of Hoboken’s most desirable addresses.

Hudson Tea also includes:

• Convenient on-site parking

• Fully equipped fitness center

• Resident’s Club

• Children’s playroom

• Business Center with an executive conference room, computer station, and copy and fax services

• Complimentary shuttle service to the PATH

• Magnificent lobbies, attended 24 hours a day

Hoboken is well known for its vibrant Washington Street. Lined with continental bistros, neighborhood pubs, old world cafes and unique boutiques, the lively street is a favorite destination. Residents will also delight in the beautiful views from Sinatra Park as its trails meander alongside the Hudson River. Hoboken is famous for its many festivals and cultural celebrations, including the summertime “Movies Under the Stars.” Hudson Tea residents can enjoy the complimentary shuttle service to the PATH-which offers an 8-minute ride to Manhattan with in Greenwich Village, the Flatiron District, Chelsea, mid-town and at the World Financial Center.

Convenient to Manhattan by ferry, train, car, or bus, Hoboken gives you access to the unlimited entertainment and culture of the city. From Broadway plays and the world-renowned museums of “museum row,” to the magnificent shops of Fifth Avenue and the galleries of SoHo, you will discover that New York City is truly the “Capital of the World.

For your convenience I have included the following links showing available units at the Hudson Tea Building. 

1500 Hudson St Click Here to View Listings

1500 Washington St Click Here to View Listings

If  you would like more information, or  to see any of these units. Please contact Eddie Perez at  (201) 344-2886, www.Investhoboken.

ARE YOU AT RISK OF FORECLOSURE?

Posted February 20, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: foreclosure

Tags: , , ,

Don’t ignore the phone calls and letters from your lender. cdpelogo_color_name_300dpi31This is the best way to end up forced to vacate your home by law enforcement. Take this matter very seriously and work to resolve the problem very quickly. Please keep track of all correspondence you receive for future reference. Do not vacate your home. You may not qualify for foreclosure help if the house is vacant. If your home is proved vacant, it can be easily seized.

Contact me to discuss what the best foreclosure solutions are for you. As a CDPE, I will negotiate on your behalf with the mortgage company to get your loan back in good standing. I understand the system, the foreclosure laws, and the steps necessary to help you keep your home. I will be your advocate by walking you through the process.

Following are several options that I will explore:

Reinstatement – You will need to pay the mortgage company all of the back payments to bring your mortgage up to date. This option is seldom attainable. With late fees and attorney fees addedon top of your back payments, the amount is often much more than people are able to come up with.

Workout – I can negotiate with your mortgage company to bring your loan back in good standing. There are many options available to us to get a work out approved. Some examples are as follows:

Forbearance – I will be able to arrange a payment plan based on your financial situation. This is mostly used in the instance of a tragedy or temporary loss of employment.

Loan Modification – I may be able to adjust the terms of the loan to meet your financial situation.

Partial Claim – You may qualify to have the repayment amount applied to the end of the current loan and resume normal payments.

Refinance – I have established knowledge of very reputable lenders who can give loans on mortgages that are in foreclosure if there is enough equity available.

Sell Your Home – You may simply sell your home before the foreclosure Sale Date. Sometimes the home owner is unable to sell the home outright at the desired sale price and this is not an option. I may be able to negotiate a Short Sale on your behalf with your Mortgage Company. In this instance the mortgage company may take less than what you owe on the loan to avoid a lengthy and costly foreclosure process.

Deed-in-lieu of Foreclosure – We can arrange for you to simply give the home back to the mortgage company and walk away with a clean slate.

Bankruptcy – I only recommend this as a last resort. This will only save your home temporarily. If you miss one payment during this process the lender will put you right back into foreclosure. You will still need to come up with a permanent repayment solution to get your house payments up to date. I can put you in touch with an attorney to file the necessary paperwork.

Foreclosure – You may elect to allow the home to be entered into mortgage foreclosure. The mortgage company will take your home and all of your equity. If there is no equity there is a chance they may come after you to pay the shortage or deficiency. There are many foreclosure prevention options available to you. One solution does not fit all and that is why you need to take the time to learn about your options. Allow me to help you keep or sell your home to stop a potential foreclosure. Contact Eddie Perez at (201) 344-2886, www.investhoboken.com.

HOBOKEN CONDO SHORT SALE LIST

Posted February 22, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: Short sales

Tags: , ,

There are 9 condos listed as “short sales” in our MLS.

Here they are: Click Here to View Listings

Any offers are subject to bank approval.

What is a short sale?

While Short Sales were virtually unheard of only a few years ago, now the majority of banks and lenders are negotiating and closing these deals. They allow a homeowner with a legitimate hardship to sell their property for less than the balance of their mortgages and avoid foreclosure.

Why buy a short sale?

Buyers persue short sale properties in the hopes of obtaining a good deal however be aware that these deals generally take longer to complete and are subject to the banks approval.

The issue is that the banks want the right type of deal with exactly the right paperwork and most agents are completely unaware of what the banks want. This is why the majority of short sales are not accepted or take so long to close that buyers lose interest.  However if you have the right team in place including your real estate attorney and a Certified Distressed Property Expert certified REALTOR, your chances are greatly improved. To really get a good idea of what a CDPE can do for you click on the following link  What Is a Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE)? 

You will find some really great information.  

More info? Email  eddie@InvestHoboken.com

HOW OBAMA’S STIMULUS PLAN WILL HELP HOMEOWNERS

Posted February 27, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: Obama

Tags: ,

President Barack Obama signed the stimulus package into law imageslast week and readied a new $75 billion foreclosure rescue for legions of Americans who are in danger of losing their homes.

Obama focused on the $787 billion stimulus plan, an ambitious package of federal spending and tax cuts designed to revive the economy and save millions of jobs.

The $75 billion foreclosure rescue will be a big part of recovery to help stem foreclosures — in Arizona, one of the states hardest hit by the mortgage defaults that are at the center of the nation’s economic woes. Obama is expected to detail how the administration plans to prod the mortgage industry to do more in modifying the terms of home loans so borrowers have lower monthly payments.

More than 2.3 million homeowners coast-to-coast faced foreclosure proceedings last year, an 81 percent increase from 2007. Analysts say that number could soar as high as 10 million in the coming years, depending on the severity of the recession.

Below is a list of key elements of the plan outlined by President Obama that aims to aid as many as 9 million households in fending off foreclosures:

·   Allows 4 million–5 million homeowners to refinance via government-sponsored mortgage giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.

·  Establishes $75 billion fund to reduce homeowners’ monthly payments.

·  Develops uniform rules for loan modifications across the mortgage industry.

·  Bolsters Fannie and Freddie by buying more of their shares.

·  Allows Fannie and Freddie to hold $900 billion in mortgage-backed securities — a $50 billion increase.

It is nice to see the president is working to keep the “American Dream” alive.

If you are in fear of foreclosure click on the following link to find helpful information ARE YOU AT RISK OF FORECLOSURE?

FIRST TIME BUYERS NEED TO CONSIDER ALL EXPENSES BEFORE BUYING A HOME

Posted February 27, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: first time buyer

Tags: , ,

Always keep in mind if you buy too much house you will be drained chp_currency_1financially. Be honest with yourself about what you spend and what you can afford for a home. Simply take a look at the number of home foreclosures nationwide this week to give you the incentive to find your comfort zone of monthly repayment.

Before you decide how much you can afford in monthly mortgage payments, calculate your expenses. The following itemized list could help organize your thoughts. Sometimes you don’t realize how many financial obligations you have until you see them on paper.

·       Loans – car, student, etc.

·       Insurance – home, car, life, etc.

·       Credit Cards

·       Utilities

·       Property Taxes (based on cost of the home you are interested in, or your own home — for questions, call your local tax collector since rates vary)

·       Food and Entertainment

·       Kids’ School

·       Retirement Accounts

·       Car Payment

·       Gifts

·       Doctors

·       Vacations

·       Charitable Contributions

Consider preparing a similar monthly expenses checklist along with all associated paperwork to get pre-approved for a mortgage amount. It will also help to keep you in line if you fall in love with a home priced too far out of your pre-approved range. If you have any questions about buying your first home contact Eddie Perez at (201) 344-2886.

HOBOKEN CONDO MARKET WEEKLY STATS

Posted March 6, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: , , ,

Weekly statistics 2/22/09- /01/09

Another million dollar listing received an accepted offer last week.  The $1,060,000 priced condo at newly constructed “Arthur’s Court”, 78 Jackson St, is now under contract.  A total of  7 condos received firm accepted offers last week.

As of today, there are 111 Hoboken condos pending to close.  These are the buyers making a commitment in this market!

Here are the folks that took advantage of the opportunities last week…..

FIRM ACCEPTED OFFERS:

1 BEDROOM

3 condos  received an accepted offer  Click Here to View Listings

These averaged 72 days on market.

2 BEDROOMS

3 condos had accepted offers  Click Here to View Listings

Average days on market for this group was 61.

3-4 BEDROOMS:

1 condo had an accepted offer which was the 2018 square foot 3 bedroom, 2 bath unit at Arthur’s Court.  Listed at $1,060,000.   Click Here to View Listings  Days on market was at 303 however this was under construction so the days on market that buyers may have had access to view was most likely quite a bit less. 

SOLD CONDOS:  

5 condos closed last week.  Average asking price: $591,266.  Average days on market: 83

STUDIOS:

No closings

1 bedroom:

2 condos sold.  Click Here to View Listings   Average listing price was $404,450.  Average selling price was $386,500  

(-4.4% of listing price)  Average days on the market was 114.

2 BEDROOMS:

2 units sold.   Click Here to View Listings  Average listing price was $544,450.  Average selling price was $526,250 (-3.3% of listing price).  Average days on market was 96

3 – 4 BEDROOMS:

1 unit closed.  A 3 bedroom + den, 2 bathroom unit with 2111 square feet and parking sold for $372.76 per square foot.  

Listing price was $824,900.  Selling price was $786,901, (-4.6% of listing price),  Days on market was 57.

ACTIVE FOR SALE MARKET:

As of today there are 529 Hoboken condos actively listed for sale in our MLS.  They have an average asking price of $632,905 and a median price of $535,000.  Average days on market sits at 105.

Search entire Hoboken condo market at http://InvestHoboken.com   then click on Browse Hoboken Listings

I welcome your specific questions.  Email me at eddie@InvestHoboken.com

All of these statistics are compiled from the Hudson County Multiple Listing Service (HCMLS) and do not include properties that are not listed on this MLS such as some new construction and for-sale-by-owners.

Firm accepted offers are offers that have cleared the mandatory attorney review process and are now considered a binding contract of sale.

Eddie

6 THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT THE FIRST TIME HOME BUYER CREDIT

Posted March 6, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags:

6 Things to Know About the First Time Home Buyer Credit

1. Eight grand, new buyers: This credit is equivalent to 10 percent money1of the purchase price of the home–although it’s capped at $8,000–and applies only to first-time home buyers and principal residences. But unlike an earlier $7,500 home buyer tax credit, this one does not have to be repaid.

2. First time buyers defined: For the purpose of this legislation, a “first-time home buyer” is someone who hasn’t owned a principal residence for three years before buying a house. (The date of purchase is considered the day that the title is transferred.) That means if you’ve owned a vacation home–but not a principal residence–within the past three years, you would still qualify for the credit.

3. 2009 buyers only: Only those who purchase a home on or after January 1 and before December 1, 2009 are eligible for the credit. Anyone who bought a home last year won’t be able to take advantage of it.

4. Income limits: The tax credit is subject to income limitations. Single buyers need a modified adjusted gross income of $75,000 or less to qualify for the full credit, that’s $150,000 for married couples. Those earning more than these thresholds may be eligible for reduced credits.

5. Refundable: Because the tax credit is “refundable,” qualified buyers can take advantage of it even if they don’t have much tax liability.

6. Recapture: Buyers have to own the home for at least three years in order to capitalize on the credit. If they sell the home before then, they will have to return the credit to the government. (Exceptions will be made in certain cases, such as death or divorce.)

For assistance in finding the perfect home in Hoboken, contact Eddie Perez at (201) 344-2886 or go to Hoboken Condo Expert.

HOBOKEN IS THE PLACE FOR YOU AND YOUR PET

Posted March 6, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: ,

Hoboken, NJ: A Pet-Friendly City

We all love our pets, shelling out more for food, supplies dogey-bellaand veterinary care than we do on consumer staples like beer, ice cream, cosmetics and golf–some $36 billion annually. The combined total of cats and dogs in the U.S. is estimated at 163 million, or more than one for every two people.

When it comes to choosing a place to live, Hoboken is one of the best pet-friendly cities you will find.

With generous public space, ample veterinary care and many pet-friendly retailers, all adds up to heaven on earth for Hoboken pet lovers. With the many living options of row houses with yards and pet friendly condos, Hoboken has unlimited potential for pet lovers.

If you and fido are in the process of looking for a place to call home in Hoboken, the following links will take you to some of the best condominiums in Hoboken that allow pets.

1500 Hudson St Click Here to View Listings

1500 Washington St Click Here to View Listings

As a condominium owner and the proud companion of my dog Dogey, I would be thrilled to help you find a great new place for you and your beloved pet in Hoboken. 

For assistance in finding the perfect home in Hoboken, contact Eddie Perez at (201) 344-2886 or go to Pet Friendly condo information in Hoboken.

HOBOKEN REAL ESTATE MARKET’S NEWEST LISTINGS

Posted March 7, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: Hoboken's newest listings

Tags: , , , ,

View the newest listings to see what hot buys are there for you!

This week brought 41 new condo listings and (1) 1-4 Family home to the Hoboken market.

Have a look at them all!

STUDIO CONDO

One 600 sqft studio on the 7th floor in doorman building priced at $389,000

Click Here to View Listings

1 BEDROOM CONDOS

Looking for a nice 1 bedroom home?  Check these 16 new listings starting at $290,000.

Click Here to View Listings

2 BEDROOM CONDOS

Perhaps a 2 bedroom home is on your list.  Well 21 new properties are available for your viewing

pleasure. Starting at $400,000   Click Here to View Listings

3 BEDROOM CONDOS

Need more space?  3 bedroom homes start at $549,000.   Click Here to View Listings

4 BEDROOM CONDOS

No new ones however there are some available in the MLS

1-FAMILY HOMES

12th & Garden 4 story brownstone with amazing 4 story extension has become available.  For the super sized family

or those that love extra space.  4 bedrooms:   Click Here to View Listings

2-4 FAMILY HOMES

No new listings this week however there is inventory.

Check the Hoboken Real Estate Blog every Friday for the newest real estate listings of the week.  We’ll post the most up-to-date listings of condos, 1-family, and 2-4 family homes. You can then plan to see any of interest over the weekend. 

To receive specific properties as they become available, sign up for free email listing alerts at http://FindHobokenHomes.com

Search entire Hoboken are surrounding area MLS listings at http://www.InvestHoboken.com and click on Browse Hoboken Listings.

Interested in Foreclosures or Short Sale properties???  Email me your contact info and we’ll

See if we can find the right property / investment for you.  eddie@InvestHoboken.com

Eddie

 

HOBOKEN CONDO MARKET WEEKLY STATS

Posted March 9, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: , , , , , ,

 Weekly statistics 3/01/09- 3/08/09

Ok, just 4 condos went under contract last week.  A drop from the previous weeks 7 units however it was nice to see that there were two properties listed over $700,000 in this mix.

As of today, there are 109 Hoboken condos pending to close.  These are the buyers making a commitment in this market!

Here are the folks that took advantage of the opportunities last week…..

FIRM ACCEPTED OFFERS:

1 BEDROOM

No offers accepted in this category

2 BEDROOMS

4 condos had accepted offers  Click Here to View Listings

Average days on market for this group was 68.

3-4 BEDROOMS:

No offers accepted in this category

SOLD CONDOS:  

11 closings last week which is quite a few more than the previous weeks 5 closings.  Average asking price: $544,707.  Average days on market: 53

STUDIOS:

No closings

1 BEDROOM:

2 properties closed.  Click Here to View Listings  Average listing price was $352,000.  Average selling price was $326,000  (-7.3% of listing price)  Average days on the market was 52.

2 BEDROOMS:

11 units sold.    Click Here to View Listings  Average listing price was $587,531.  Average selling price was $548,641 (-6.6% of listing price).  Average days on market was 53

3 – 4 BEDROOMS:

No closings

ACTIVE FOR SALE MARKET:

As of today there are 526 Hoboken condos actively listed for sale in our MLS.  They have an average asking price of $635,953 and a median price of $535,450.  Average days on market sits at 107.

Search entire Hoboken condo market at http://InvestHoboken.com   then click on Browse Hoboken Listings

I welcome your specific questions.  Email me at eddie@InvestHoboken.com

All of these statistics are compiled from the Hudson County Multiple Listing Service (HCMLS) and do not include properties that are not listed on this MLS such as some new construction and for-sale-by-owners.

Firm accepted offers are offers that have cleared the mandatory attorney review process and are now considered a binding contract of sale.

Eddie

BEWARE OF FORECLOSURE SCAMS

Posted March 13, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: CPDE

Tags: , , , , ,

Foreclosure is a very serious situation to be in. If you are nearing the cdpelogo_color_name_300dpi3possibility of foreclosure I am sure you are getting letters from many different sources telling you they want to help you. It can be very confusing so you need to be aware of the scams that have come to light. Following are two scenarios that have been given to take advantage of people who are about to lose their home.

Some organizations are advising people on the phone and by mailers to home owners, to just walk away and their home go to foreclosure. It appears the organizations behind this campaign may be groups of investors that want to buy your property cheap at auction. This can be devastating for home owners in many states, as the home owner is responsible for the deficiency, which means if you owe $225,000 on your loan, and your home sells for $100,000 at auction, you’re on the hook for the $125,000 difference. They can garnish wages to get it. This means the investor gets a great deal and the homeowner gets a huge bill as they are being kicked to the curb.



Private Investors/Lenders will tell you that they will bring your mortgage current and payoff all back fees to save your home, and they will, for a price. In order for them to do that you must “Quick Deed” (sign over your home to them in their name). In turn they will lease your home back to you with 15-20% higher payments for 1, 2 or 3 years until they have made their investment back. Then they will agree to sign your home back to you. Sounds good so far, right? But here’s the trick.

In the contract that you sign, somewhere in the fine print, it will say if the lessee (you) are 24 hours late with your monthly payment within the duration of your contract, then the lessee (you) must evacuate the premises. Usually within 5 – 7 days. Over 90% of homeowners that fall for this trick end up losing their homes. These investors all know that you’ve had payment problems in the past. That’s why they prey on homeowners in your situation. Next thing you know your family is out on the street with no home or hope and the investor just tricked you out of your $150,000 home that cost them only $4,000 to $5,000. So PLEASE BEWARE. Don’t do it. 


Owners in pre-foreclosure should seek out a Certified Distressed Property Expert as soon as possible.  These owners will need assistance in various form during the 10 month timeline that New Jersey currently follows from the Notice of Default (NOD) filing until the foreclosure sale.

To find out all the benefits and options for preventing foreclosure, contact Eddie Perez, Broker-REALTOR, CDPE or Anoir Redouane, REALTOR, CDPE.  Their market includes Hoboken, Jersey City, Weehawken and Union City.  They can be reached at eddie@InvestHoboken.com or 201-344-2886. Or go to « ARE YOU AT RISK OF FORECLOSURE? .

THE BEST FURNITURE PICKS FOR THE FIRST TIME HOME BUYER

Posted March 13, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: , ,

Are you setting up your first home? If you don’t know 292636092what you’ll really need, read through the following list for some helpful tips.

A Bed to Last a Lifetime

You’ll spend about 1/3 of every day in bed, so you should one that’s comfortable and well constructed. Choose the best quality one you can afford. After all, you’ll probably have it for 10 years or more. And keep in mind that the most expensive bed might not be the best bed. If you can’t invest in a great bed right away, buy an air bed for a short time. It will go into your guest room later. When you’re shopping for a bed, think about the proper size, firmness, and surface.

A Table to Eat On

Most dining tables are round or rectangular, but you might start out with a square or round that extends to seat more. With leaves installed, your table might stretch through a doorway. Before you invest in a table, you might get a plywood tabletop on top of a sturdy base and cover it with a decorative floor-length tablecloth.

Chairs for Dining

Choose your dining chairs to add beauty and color to your dining area. They should be comfortable enough so that you can sit for a long dinner and visit with friends. Wooden chairs are inexpensive, but upholstered chairs would be more comfortable. You can always put a slipcover over an upholstered chair to change the look for seasonal touches. Arm chairs are luxurious and can be moved into the living area when you need extra seating.

A Comfortable Sofa

Sofas come in many shapes, styles, fabrics, and costs. Select the interior-home-page_bigbest one you can afford. Next to a bed, it will be your most important upholstered piece. Don’t settle for anything less than a solid hardwood frame and 8-way hand-tied springs and attractive, durable fabric. Loose-backed cushions look casual while tight-backed sofas require less maintenance. You won’t have to keep adjusting and straightening the pillows. You’ll have to select length, arm shape, skirt or no skirt, how many cushions, plain or patterned fabric, down or synthetic cushions.

A Chest of Drawers

A chest of drawers is useful in a bathroom for supplies and linens, a bedroom for clothes, a living room for games, CDs, books, or office supplies, or in a hallway or entry for scarves, gloves, and hats. Select a piece that’s both classic and versatile.

A Versatile Armoire

There’s no piece of furniture like an armoire when you need to organize clothes, linens, store things, or hide a television. It’s one of the most versatile pieces of furniture than you can buy and it can add beauty and provide storage in almost any room of the house.

Side Tables and Nesting Tables

You can often collect interesting side tables at estate sales. Or you can invest in new pieces. They can be moved around the room for glasses and eating or for magazines and books. A set of small tables can serve as a coffee table. A small table is useful next to a bed. Nesting tables can be collected to save space and spread out when needed. Choose wood, metal, or glass-topped tables for interest.

An Ottoman or Foot Stool

An ottoman is an upholstered stool, either small or large. They serve as a wonderful footrest but can also be used as a coffee table. Buy a pair and use them together or apart or buy one and place a large tray on top. Since you’ll be putting your feet on an ottoman, choose a sturdy fabric or leather for the cover.

Lighting and Lamps

Small older homes often have harsh overhead lighting. Install dimmers on all the wall switches. Place floor lamps or table lamps near seating. Pairs of lamps are nice for pairs of tables. Wall-mounted lamps are great beside beds. Choose lamp shade of sheer fabric for more light or of metal to focus the light up or down. Overhead track lighting and can lights might require professional installation. Be sure you buy a supply of the bulbs you’ll need.

For more great decorating ideas go to « TRENDS IN PAINT COLOR

HOW TO MAKE A SMALL ROOM IN YOUR CONDO LOOK LARGER

 

HOBOKEN REAL ESTATE MARKET’S NEWEST LISTINGS

Posted March 14, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: Hoboken's newest listings

Tags: , , , , , , ,

View the newest listings to see what hot buys are there for you!

This week brought 32 new condo listings and (1) 1-4 Family home to the Hoboken market.

Have a look at them all!

STUDIO CONDO

One spacious 340 sqft Washington St studio priced at $268,700

Click Here to View Listings

1 BEDROOM CONDOS

1 bedroom beauties starting at $314,990

Click Here to View Listings

2 BEDROOM CONDOS

Upgrade from you 1 to a nice 2 bedroom.  14 homes here with a 2 bed / 2 bath starting at $435,000.

Click Here to View Listings

3 BEDROOM CONDOS

No new listings here however we have good selection in the MLS.

4 BEDROOM CONDOS

No new ones however there are some available in the MLS

1-FAMILY HOMES

7th & Park single family home, gut renovated, 3 BR/3.5 bath offered at $1,299,000.

Click Here to View Listings

2-4 FAMILY HOMES

3 new listings here.  5th & Bloomfield St 3-family home offers a chance to live in the 2 bed, 1 bath duplex with yard and have income from two other 1 bedroom apartments.  Only $899,000!  

Have a look at all three:  Click Here to View Listings

Check the Hoboken Real Estate Blog every Friday for the newest real estate listings of the week.  We’ll post the most up-to-date listings of condos, 1-family, and 2-4 family homes. You can then plan to see any of interest over the weekend.

To receive specific properties as they become available, sign up for free email listing alerts at http://FindHobokenHomes.com

Search entire Hoboken and surrounding area MLS listings at http://www.InvestHoboken.com and click on Browse Hoboken Listings.

Interested in Foreclosures or Short Sale properties???  Email me your contact info and we’ll see if we can find the right property / investment for you.  eddie@InvestHoboken.com

Eddie

 

HOBOKEN CONDO MARKET WEEKLY STATS

Posted March 17, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: , , , , , , ,

Weekly statistics 3/08/09- 3/15/09

Wow…8 condos went under contract last week which is double the amount from the previous week.  The Hoboken condo market also had 11 condo closings which is the same as last weeks amount.

As of today, there are a total of 111 Hoboken condos pending to close.  These are the buyers making a commitment in this market!

Here are the folks that took advantage of the opportunities last week…..

FIRM ACCEPTED OFFERS:

 1 BEDROOM

2 units received accepted offers Click Here to View Listings

These homes averaged 50 days on market.

2 BEDROOMS

5 condos had accepted offers   Click Here to View Listings

Average days on market for this group was 137.

3-4 BEDROOMS:

1 condo received an accepted offer.  This was a 1728 square foot 3 bedroom, 2 bath condo at 108 Jackson St.

It was originally listed at $839,000 on 5/5/08 and after subsequent reductions had a asking price of $700,000.

Now under contract.   Click Here to View Listings

SOLD CONDOS:

STUDIOS:

No closings

1 BEDROOM:

1 property closed.   Click Here to View Listings  Listing price was $434,5000 and selling price was $422,000  

(-2.8% of listing price)  The condo was on the market for 23 days.

2 BEDROOMS:

9 units sold.  Click Here to View Listings   Average listing price was $530,322.  Average selling price was $515,461 (-2.8% of listing price).  Average days on market was 82

3 – 4 BEDROOMS:

1 condo closed.   Click Here to View Listings  Listing price was $675,000 and selling price was $642,500

(-4.8% of listing price)  This was a newly constructed 3 bedroom, 3 bath home with a 206 square foot terrace.

Days on market was 175.  The days on market could have been extended due to the condo still being under construction.

ACTIVE SALE MARKET:

As of today there are 518 Hoboken condos actively listed for sale in our MLS.  This is down slightly from the 526 on market during last week.  These have an average asking price of $621,095 and a median price of $529,450.  Average days on market sits at 105.

Search entire Hoboken condo market at http://InvestHoboken.com   then click on Browse Hoboken Listings

I welcome your specific questions.  Email me at eddie@InvestHoboken.com

 All of these statistics are compiled from the Hudson County Multiple Listing Service (HCMLS) and do not include  properties that are not listed on this MLS such as some new construction and for-sale-by-owners.

Firm accepted offers are offers that have cleared the mandatory attorney review process and are now considered a binding contract of sale.

Eddie

MORTGAGE RATES DOWN AND LIKELY TO FALL FURTHER. TIME TO BUY?

Posted March 19, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: , , ,

The Associated Press reported today that rates on 30-year ist2_1775985-financial-planning-calculator-graphicsmortgages plunged to their lowest levels since January and are poised to fall further after the Federal Reserve launched a new effort to prop up the housing market.

They are reporting that Freddie Mac, the giant mortgage finance company, said that average rates on 30-year fixed-rate mortgages dropped to 4.98 percent this week.

These rate quotes were given before the Fed said Wednesday that they would pump 1.2 trillion into the economy in an effort to lower rates on mortgages. That is expect to lower rates even further.

You may now be able get into the home of your dreams–and live there at a cost that works for your budget. For those of you who have been patiently waiting on the sidelines, now may be time to give buying your next home some serious consideration. Here’s why:

· Mortgage rates are so attractive now which will lower your monthly costs and amount of money you pay in interest over the life of the loan

· Hoboken and Jersey City property values have declined and affordability has dramatically increased

· Fantastic inventory with opportunities to acquire an “A” class property in terms of location, condition and amenities, often times without competing with another buyer.

· You may be able to negotiate even better prices and seller concessions

While a home is a major investment, it is also the center of your personal life. It’s important to live in a home that reflects your taste and values, yet is within your financial “comfort zone.” To that end, it may be more important to lock in today’s relatively low interest rates and low home prices, rather than to hope for a further break in prices in the future.

Tomorrow I’ll be publishing the new listings and price reductions so check back for this.

If you want to search the Hoboken and Jersey City MLS, log on www.GreatHomesHoboken.com

THE DEFINITION OF A SHORT SALE

Posted March 20, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: Short sales

Tags: , , , ,

If you see a price listed for a home that you think home-sale-sign3is too low for the neighborhood, ask your agent to call the listing agent to find out if the home is a short sale.

Making an offer on a pre-foreclosure, short sale home is not as simple as you may think, and very few can close in 30 days or less. Many people have waited 4 to 6 months to close on a short sale, sometimes longer.

A short sale means the seller’s lender is accepting a discounted payoff to release an existing mortgage. Just because a property is listed with short sale terms does not mean the lender will accept your offer, even if the seller accepts it.

Be aware that the seller is not always in default before a lender will consider a short sale. A lender may consider a short sale if the seller is current but the value has fallen. The seller may owe more than the home is worth, so a discounted price might bring the price in line with market value, not below it.

Do your research before making an offer to purchase. Your agent can find out who is in title, whether a foreclosure notice has been filed and how much is owed to the lender(s). This is important because it will help you to determine how much to offer.

There could be a problem if there are two loans. The first mortgage lender’s position is protected by the second lender, unless the second lender does not want to foreclose. cdpelogo_color_name_300dpi32If a seller owes $160,000 on the first and $40,000 on the second, offering $160,000 leaves nothing for the second. The first will need to give something to the second to gain its cooperation.

Take a look at Hoboken Condo Short Sale List to get a good idea of what is taking place in the local Hoboken real estate market.

If  you have the right team in place including your real estate attorney and a Certified Distressed Property Expert certified REALTOR®, your chances of buying a short sale are greatly improved. To really get a good idea of what a CDPE can do for you click on the following link  What Is a Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE)?  To find out all the benefits and options of purchasing a short sale, contact Eddie Perez, Broker-REALTOR®, CDPE or Anoir Redouane, REALTOR®, CDPE.  Their market includes Hoboken, Jersey City, Weehawken and Union City.  They can be reached at 201-344-2886 or at eddie@InvestHoboken.com or Prevent Foreclosure.

DID YOU EVER WONDER WHAT HAPPENS AT A FORECLOSURE SALE?

Posted March 20, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: foreclosure

Tags: , , , , ,

A foreclosure sale is the final stage of the foreclosure process,images1 at which the property in foreclosure is sold at public auction to the highest bidder. The sale is conducted by a court-appointed referee. The referee begins the sale by reading aloud the Terms of Sale; the Terms of Sale is the document that acts as the contract of sale between the referee and the high bidder and sets forth the rights, responsibilities and obligations of both the referee and the high bidder. Once the referee has read the Terms of Sale, the referee begins to accept bids for the property. The foreclosing mortgage holder (the “Mortgagee”) usually has an “upset price” which is the minimum amount it will accept in satisfaction of the mortgage debt. If the highest amount bid is less than the upset price, the Mortgagee will usually be the high bidder and take title to the property. If, however, the highest amount bid exceeds the upset price, the property will generally be sold to the highest bidder.

Generally, a potential bidder is unable to inspect the property prior to bidding. The Mortgagee does not own the property and they have lost legal authority to allow inspections. The successful bidder cannot legally enter the property until the title has closed and the referee has delivered the deed to the property.

The highest bidder must immediately pay to the referee an amount equal to at least ten percent (10%) of your bid (the “Bid Deposit”). The Bid Deposit must be in the form of cash or certified funds. In addition, the highest bidder will be required to sign the Terms of Sale.

In most cases, the Terms of Sale require that the balance of the cdpelogo_color_name_300dpi35purchase price be paid and the sale completed within thirty days from the date of sale. It is within the referee’s discretion whether to grant an extension of time to allow the high bidder to complete the sale. If the referee grants an extension of time, the high bidder will be required to pay interest on the bid from the original scheduled closing date through the actual closing date. 

To find out all the benefits and options for preventing foreclosure, go to Foreclosure  Prevention Team Ready to Help in Hudson County contact Eddie Perez, Broker-REALTOR®, CDPE or Anoir Redouane, REALTOR®, CDPE.  Their market includes Hoboken, Jersey City, Weehawken and Union City.  They can be reached at 201-344-2886 or at eddie@InvestHoboken.com Prevent Foreclosure.

 

HOBOKEN REAL ESTATE MARKET’S NEWEST LISTINGS AND PRICE REDUCTIONS

Posted March 20, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: Hoboken's newest listings, Hoboken's price reductions

Tags: , , , , ,

View the newest listings and price reductions to see what hot buys may be there for you!

47 new condo listings and (2) new 1-4 Family homes hit the Hoboken market.  37 condo price reductions

Have a look at them all!

STUDIO CONDO

1 new listing:   Click Here to View Listings

1 BEDROOM CONDOS

17 new listings starting at $199,000   Click Here to View Listings

14 price reductions  Click Here to View Listings 

2 BEDROOM CONDOS

24 new listings starting at $315,000   Click Here to View Listings

16 price reductions  Click Here to View Listings 

3 BEDROON CONDOS

5 new listings starting at $535,000   Click Here to View Listings

7 price reductions   Click Here to View Listings

4 BEDROOM CONDOS

No new listings however there are some available in the MLS

1-FAMILY HOMES

1036 Bloomfield St home with 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths and yard offered at $1,299,000.

Click Here to View Listings

1 price reduction   Click Here to View Listings  Reduced from $1,650,000 to $1,495,000

2-4 FAMILY HOMES

2 family home at 845 Bloomfield St with owners duplex offered at $1,499,000  

 Click Here to View Listings

Check the Hoboken Real Estate Blog every Friday for the newest real estate listings and price reductions of the week.  We’ll post the most up-to-date listings of condos and 1-4 family homes. You can then plan to see any of these over the weekend.

Search entire Hoboken and surrounding area MLS listings at http://www.InvestHoboken.com and click

on Browse Listings.

Interested in Foreclosures or Short Sale properties???  Email me your contact info and we’ll

see if we can find the right property / investment for you.  eddie@InvestHoboken.com 

Eddie

Hoboken Condo Market Weekly Stats

Posted March 25, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: , , , , , , ,

Weekly statistics 3/15/09- 3/22/09

Accepted offers are trending up.

12 condos received firm offers that cleared attorney review including a condo at “The Constitution” listed at $1,085,000.  Previous accepted offer reports were 4 units three weeks ago and 8 units two weeks ago.

6 condominiums closed last week.  11 closings the previous week.

ADDITIONAL NEWS:

·         Incredibly low mortgage rates continue to be available to those that qualify

·         Existing home sales rise 5.1 percent in February; prices plunge 15.5 percent

As of today, there are a total of 117 Hoboken condos pending to close (111 last week).  These are the buyers making a commitment in todays market!

Here are the folks that took advantage of the opportunities last week…..

FIRM ACCEPTED OFFERS:

1 BEDROOM:

6 units received accepted offers  Click Here to View Listings

These condos averaged 81 days on market.

2 BEDROOMS:

6 condos had accepted offers    Click Here to View Listings

Average days on market for this group was 106.

3-4 BEDROOMS:

No accepted offers

SOLD CONDOS:

STUDIOS:

 

No closings

1 BEDROOM:

2 properties closed.    Click Here to View Listings   Average listing price was $417,000 and average selling price was $407,500  (-2.27% of listing price)  Days on the market average 90.

2 BEDROOMS:

4 units sold.   Click Here to View Listings  Average listing price was $651,475.  Average selling price was $614,250 (-5.7% of listing price).  Average days on market was 76.

3-4 BEDROOMS:

No units closed

ACTIVE FOR SALE MARKET:

As of today there are 536 Hoboken condos actively listed for sale in our MLS.  This is up from the 518 units on market  last week.  Average asking price is $611,192 and a median price of $529,00.  Average days on market sits at 105.

Search entire Hoboken condo market at http://InvestHoboken.com then click on Browse Hoboken Listings

I welcome your specific questions.  Email me at eddie@InvestHoboken.com

Buying Your First Home Takes Time

Posted March 27, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: , ,

Research alone on how to buy a home is a big time commitment. If you pick up a book on the subject, it might be helpful, but might overwhelm first-time-buyer-puzzle4you with detail. Many informative websites have short, sharp home-buying tips that sacrifice depth and introduce pop-up invitations to apply for mortgages, credit reports, or real estate listings.

 

When you buy your first home the government offers big tax incentives; banks work to loan out massive mortgages while many Realtors®, will compete to get new clients.

What many first-timer buyers do not realize, is that they are doing the government, the banks, the Realtors®, the construction industry, and the overall economy a favor. Apart from the money the bankers, builders, Realtors®, inspectors, lawyers, and insurers make being involved with the purchase of a home, a new homeowner generally spends large amounts of money on furnishings, appliances, home decorating, and gardening – which bolsters the local economy.

The buyer is the one person in a real estate transaction who makes it all happen. If a buyer decides to not buy, the entire process comes to a grinding halt.

housing12_460x276If you are in the process of purchasing your first home, do yourself a favor by doing basic research to ensure that you understand everything that is happening around you.  A buyer needs to learn new terms, apply new concepts, and take the time to understand what you’re getting into. And when something happens that doesn’t make sense, demand a full and complete explanation from the professionals working on your behalf.

Plan from the beginning to approach your home buying process intelligently and with confidence. By doing this you will be have a home to be proud of and the knowledge that you made the best decision.

Please take a look at the following helpful article to give you a very good perspective regarding   rates. Mortgage Rates Down and Likely to Fall Further. Time to Buy? Also, don’t forget to check out  Six Things to Know About the First Time Home Buyer Credit. This is more encouraging information to assist you with the purchasing your first home that you need to be aware of.

For assistance in finding the perfect home in Hoboken, contact Eddie Perez at (201) 344-2886 or go to Hoboken Condo Expert.

Obama’s Mortgage Rescue Plan

Posted March 27, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: , ,

President Barack Obama’s Homeowner Affordability Rescueand Stability Plan, is an effort to overcome what Obama called “a crisis unlike we’ve ever known.”

The question that has come to mind for many of us is, who can get help through this program?

Some people with high payments will be able to have their loans modified to get lower interest rates.  If your monthly payment on your primary home is greater than 31 percent of your monthly gross income, there’s a good chance you could qualify. It also depends on whether your lender participates in the program.

Others, with mortgages owned or guaranteed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac, could get help to refinance, meaning they would get a new loan with better terms.

If a lender agrees to bring a mortgage payment down to 38 percent of the borrower’s income, the government and lender will split the cost of going down an additional 7 percentage points, down to 31 percent of the individual’s income.

Only primary residences are eligible for this program. However, a duplex with 2, 3, or 4 units is eligible if you live in one of the units.

With a loan modification it’s more likely that the lender foreclosure-rescue-bill1would lower your interest rate and not reduce the amount owed. However, the government will provide incentive payments to borrowers that make timely payments on modified loans. Borrowers who pay on time for five years can have up to $5,000 applied to reduce their debt by the end of the period.

At this time, more than 300 banks have received TARP funds and they are required to participate in the loan modification program. Any other lenders would participate in the program voluntarily. The government is offering substantial incentives to lenders to do so, and expects that most major lenders will participate.

Most mortgage lenders will send letters to potentially eligible homeowners sometime after March 4, when the program started.

Some $75 billion is going toward the loan modification program. Of that, $50 billion will come from the $700 billion bailout fund created last year, known as the Troubled Asset Relief Program, or TARP. The remaining $25 million will come from Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.

People whose payments were less than 31 percent of their income would not qualify to have their loans modified. But they might qualify for refinancing to take advantage of low interest rates.

To meet the eligibility requirements, homeowners need to be current on their payments and have mortgages owned or guaranteed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac. Your income and history of mortgage payments will be considered.

For more information regarding the President’s stimulus plan go to How Obama’s Stimulus Plan Will Help Homeowners.

If you are in fear of foreclosure click on the following link to find helpful information Are You at Risk of Foreclosure?

To find out all the benefits and options for preventing foreclosure, go to Foreclosure  Prevention Team Ready to Help in Hudson County contact Eddie Perez, Broker-REALTOR®, CDPE or Anoir Redouane, REALTOR®, CDPE.  Their market includes Hoboken, Jersey City, Weehawken and Union City.  They can be reached at 201-344-2886 or at eddie@InvestHoboken.com

 

Hoboken Real Estate Market’s Newest Listings & Price Reductions

Posted March 27, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: Hoboken's newest listings

Tags: , , , , , , ,

See the newest listings and price reductions to find out which hot buys may be there for you!

21 new condo listings and (2) new 1-4 Family homes hit the Hoboken market.  

34 condo price reductions  (37 reductions the previous week)

Check them all out.

Studio condo

no new listings

1 price reduction   Click Here to View Listings

1 bedroom condos

7 new listings starting at $345,000    Click Here to View Listings

9 price reductions   Click Here to View Listings

2 bedroom condos

11 new listings starting at $369,000    Click Here to View Listings

18 price reductions   Click Here to View Listings

 3 bedroom condos

3 new listings.  Very nice 3 bed / 3 bath with balcony and parking at $635,000    Click Here to View Listings

6 price reductions   Click Here to View Listings

4 bedroom condo

No new listings however there are some available in the MLS

1-family homes

207 8th St, a 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath home offered at $675,000.

Click Here to View Listings

1 price reduction  1249 Bloomfield St reduced from $1,325,00 to $1,299,000   Click Here to View Listings

2-4 family homes

Legal 4 Family used as 2 duplexes located at 932 Willow Ave.  Offered at $799,900

Click Here to View Listings

1 price reduction.  910 Hudson St, a 3 family home reduced from $2,495,000 to $2,299,000

Click Here to View Listings

Check the Hoboken Real Estate Blog every Friday for the newest real estate listings and price reductions of the week. We’ll post the most up-to-date listings of condos and 1-4 family homes. You can then plan to see any of these over the weekend.

Search entire Hoboken and surrounding area MLS listings at http://www.InvestHoboken.com and click on Browse Listings.

Interested in Foreclosures or Short Sale properties???  Email me your contact info and we’ll see if we can find the right property / investment for you.  eddie@InvestHoboken.com 

Edward (Eddie) Perez

 

Hoboken Condo Market Weekly Stats

Posted March 31, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: , , , ,

Weekly statistics 3/22/09- 3/29/09

6 condos received firm offers that cleared attorney review down from 12 condos the previous week.  This breaks a three week trend of increased accepted offers.

4 condominiums closed last week.  6 closings the previous week.

Additional news:

Long term rates set another record
For the week ending March 26th the 30-year fixed averaged 4.85% with an average 0.7% fee, down from last week when it averaged 4.98%. This time last year it averaged 5.85%. The current rate is the lowest since Fannie Mae started tracking rates in 1971.

As of today, there are a total of 113 Hoboken condos pending to close (117 last week).  These are the buyers making a commitment in todays market!

Here are the folks that took advantage of the opportunities last week…..

FIRM ACCEPTED OFFERS

1 BEDROOM

1 unit received an accepted offer   Click Here to View Listings

74 days on market.

2 BEDROOMS

4 condos had accepted offers     Click Here to View Listings

Average days on market for this group was 53.

3-4 BEDROOMS

1 condo at 304 Hudson St received an accepted offer.  Originally listed on 9/15/08 at $685,000.

11/13/08 price was reduced to $638,500.  Listing expired on 3/16/09.  Same listing agent re listed

on 3/16/09 at $638,500.  Reduced to $599,999 four days later, 3/20,09.  Accepted offer on 3/23/09.

Click Here to View Listings 

SOLD CONDOS

STUDIOS

No closings

ONE BEDROOM

2 properties closed.    Click Here to View Listings   Average listing price was $409,450 and average selling price was $402,500  (-1.69% of listing price)  Days on the market average was 315.

2 BEDROOMS

2 units sold.    Click Here to View Listings  Average listing price was $549,900.  Average selling price was $540,700 (-1.0% of listing price).  Average days on market was 50.

3 – 4 BEDROOMS

No units closed

ACTIVE FOR SALE MARKET

As of today there are 537 Hoboken condos actively listed for sale in our MLS.  This is up from the 536 units on market  last week.  Average asking price is $609,910 and a median price of $529,000.  Average days on market sits at 106.

Search entire Hoboken condo market at http://InvestHoboken.com   then click on Browse Hoboken Listings

I welcome your specific questions.  Email me at eddie@InvestHoboken.com 

All of these statistics are compiled from the Hudson County Multiple Listing Service (HCMLS) and do not include properties that are not listed on this MLS such as some new construction and for-sale-by-owners.

Firm accepted offers are offers that have cleared the mandatory attorney review process and are now considered a binding contract of sale.

Edward (Eddie) Perez

How to Make a Space in your Condo Feel Larger Than It Is

Posted April 2, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: , , , ,

Have a small space? Maybe you can’t push out the walls but you can make what you have seem so much bigger by using a few easy decorator tips.

Mirrors visually expand your space, add drama to your entry or dining area. All you need to do is simply frame out the entire wall and insetting a mirror. Mirrors can also be used above kitchen cabinetry to visually brighten a normally dark area.
how-to-make-your-home-look-bigger-using3You can’t just hang a mirror anywhere. It needs to be placed in a spot where don’t see your reflection most of the time to help create the illusion of space.

Did you know there are multipurpose chairs in the market that can serve as chair and table at the same time? They are great for small spaces, and a great way to maximize materials and function.

Keep your furnishings in proportion with the size of your rooms. Use slim rockers, open-back chairs or a simple sofa or love seat rather than large furnishings that tend to overpower the space.

An open headboard is best for a small room. When arranging your furniture, keep the view at eye level unobstructed. Taller furnishings should be placed at the end of the room opposite its main entry.
The biggest secret to make your room appear spacious is by using light colors. A palette such as light green, blue, beige and tan can make your room more inviting.

Light and brightly colored walls are more reflective and once diffused, it could make the area appear larger. Lighter objects appear closer while darker or shadowed objects appear farther. When you paint your moldings a lighter color, the wall appears farther back – thus making your room appear bigger.

For more great information go to How to Make a Small Room in Your Condo Look Larger.

If you want to search the Hoboken and Jersey City MLS, log on www.GreatHomesHoboken.com For assistance in finding the perfect home in Hoboken, contact Eddie Perez at (201) 344-2886 or go to Hoboken Condo Expert.

How an FHA Mortgage Loan Could Help a First Time Buyer

Posted April 3, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: FHA Mortgage Loans

Tags: , , ,

When it comes to low down payments, the FHA loan program rises homeabove its competitors. Unfortunately, there are not many low down payment programs available. But, thanks to FHA who has come to the rescue of American homeowners, low down payment options are still available.

For many years, in spite of benefits to FHA low down payment loans, many homeowners could not participate because of FHA restrictions to the size of mortgage loans. Rising home values across the nation made FHA mortgage loans obsolete.

The good news is FHA loan limits increase from time to time, keeping low down payment programs available to thousands of homeowners. Currently, there are limits of up to 729,750 in high cost areas, less elsewhere.

Following are some of the things that an FHA loan has to help a first time buyer:

·   Competitive FHA mortgage rates

·   Small down payments around 3%

·   Home buying or refinancing okay

·   Friendly qualifying criteria

·   Less closing costs

·   No income restrictions

·   Generous FHA loan limits

·   Stable 30 year fixed rate mortgage

For more great information regarding mortgage rates, go to Is it Time to Buy?

If you want to search the Hoboken and Jersey City MLS, log on www.GreatHomesHoboken.com  For assistance in finding the perfect home in Hoboken, contact Eddie Perez at (201) 344-2886 or go to Hoboken Condo Expert

 

Hoboken Real Estate Market’s Newest Listings & Price Reductions

Posted April 4, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: Hoboken's newest listings

Tags: , , , , , , ,

See the newest listings and price reductions to find out which hot buys may be there for you!

31 new condo listings (21 last week) and 5 new 1-4 Family homes (2 last week) hit the Hoboken market.  

37 condo and  (5) 1-4 family homes had price reductions  (34 reductions the previous week)

Check them all out.

Studio condo

1 new listing offered at $260,000   Click Here to View Listings

1 price reduction    Click Here to View Listings

1 bedroom condos

11 new listings starting at $329,000     Click Here to View Listings

16 price reductions  (9 last week)   Click Here to View Listings 

2 bedroom condos

15 new listings starting at $369,000 (11 last week).    Click Here to View Listings

14 price reductions   (18 last week)  Click Here to View Listings

3 bedroom condos

3 new listings starting at $625,000  (3 last week)    Click Here to View Listings

4 price reductions  (6 last week)    Click Here to View Listings

4 bedroom condo

1 new listing offered at $749,000 (0 last week)   Click Here to View Listings

1 price reduction.  (0 last week)   Click Here to View Listings

1-family homes

No new listings (1 last week)

1 price reduction  Reduced from $2,495,000 to $2,350,000   Click Here to View Listings

2-4 family homes

5 new listings.  (1 last week)   Click Here to View Listings

No price reductions=

Check the Hoboken Real Estate Blog every Friday for the newest real estate listings and price reductions of the week. We’ll post the most up-to-date listings of condos and 1-4 family homes. You can then plan to see any of these over the weekend.

Search entire Hoboken and surrounding area MLS listings at http://www.InvestHoboken.com and click on Browse Listings.

Interested in Foreclosures or Short Sale properties???  Email me your contact info and we’ll see if we can find the right property / investment for you.  eddie@InvestHoboken.com

Edward (Eddie) Perez

Hoboken Condo Market Weekly Stats

Posted April 6, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: , , , ,

Weekly statistics 3/29/09- 4/05/09

9 condos received firm offers that cleared attorney review which is up from 6 condos the previous week.  

7 condominiums closed last week.  4 closings the previous report.

As of today, there are a total of 124 Hoboken properties pending to close (113 last week).  

Here are the deals and opportunities from last week…..

Firm accepted offers:

1 bedroom

3 units received an accepted offer (1 previous report)   Click Here to View Listings

These averaged 119 days on market

2 bedrooms

6 condos had accepted offers  (4 previous report)    Click Here to View Listings

Average days on market for this group was 89.

3-4 bedrooms:

No accepted offers last week (1 previous report)

Sold Condos:  

Studios:

No closings

1 bedroom:

5 properties closed.     Click Here to View Listings   Average listing price was $399,513 and average selling price was $379,600  (-4.98% of listing price)  Average days on market was 79.

2 bedrooms:

2 units sold.    Click Here to View Listings Average listing price was $577,450.  Average selling price was $566,250 (-1.93% of listing price).  Average days on market was 80.

3 – 4 bedrooms:

No units closed

Active for sale market:

As of today there are 535 Hoboken condos actively listed for sale in our MLS.  Essentially flat from the 537 units on market last week.  Average asking price is $603,940 and median price is $529,000.  Days on market average 107.

Search entire Hoboken condo market at http://InvestHoboken.com   then click on Browse Hoboken Listings

I welcome your specific questions.  Email me at eddie@InvestHoboken.com

All of these statistics are compiled from the Hudson County Multiple Listing Service (HCMLS) and do not include properties that are not listed on this MLS such as some new construction and for-sale-by-owners.

Firm accepted offers are offers that have cleared the mandatory attorney review process and are now considered a binding contract of sale.

July 2009 – Hoboken Condo Market Statistics

Posted August 20, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: July 2009 - Hoboken Condo Market Statistics

Tags: , , , , ,

Here are the final sales figures for July 2009 compiled using the Hudson County Multiple Listing Service.

Overall, Hoboken condominiums showed a decline when compared with the same period last year.  There were declines in total units sold, total contracts signed, average selling price, median selling price and total sales dollar volume.

I’m certainly not surprised by these figures as we’re still facing challenges from the local supply / demand dynamics, a more challenging lending environment, national / world economic uncertainties as well as local uncertainties just to name a few!

The good news is that the overwhelming number of sales are traditional and new construction, not distressed properties.  We haven’t seen a significant short sale or foreclosure market in Hoboken.  In fact as of this writing, I could find only 5 short sales out of 529 active condominiums being marketed in the MLS.

We’re not immune to the possibility of our market being affected more from distressed property sales, however at this point we seem to be only marginally impacted.  We’ll keep a close eye on this because if they become more prevalent, it will have a negative impact to our community.  Additionally, buying and selling strategies will have to be adjusted.

But for now, check out the stats:

 
July 2008
July 2009
Comparison:
Units Sold:
92
60
-35%
Avg. Price:
$511,639
$478,431
-6.5%
Median Price:
$490,750
$469,950
-4.2%
Pending:
69
46
-33.3%

July 2009 Sold Condominiums: 

 
High
Low
Average
Median
Total Price
Listing Count
List Price:
$999,999
$294,500
$503,575
$481,500
$30,214,506
60
Sold Price:
$865,000
$280,000
$478,431
$496,950
$28,705,905
 
DOM:
447
4
86
59
   

Studio: none sold

1 bedroom: 17 sold.

Average asking price: $384,982

Average selling price: $365,734 (-5.0% of asking price)

Average days on Market: 75

2 bedroom: 38 sold

Average asking price: $526,602

Average selling price: $502,600 (-4.5% of asking price)

Average days on Market: 86

3 bedroom: 5 sold

Average asking price: $731,779

Average selling price: $677,920 (-7.4% of asking price)

Average days on Market: 128

4 bedroom:  None sold

July 2009 – Pending Contracts.  These are the deals that were consummated during the month and represents the current buying activity.

Pending Condos: 46

 
High
Low
Average
Median
Total Price
Listing Count
List Price:
$949,000
$272,900
$501,132
$494,000
$23,052,098
46
Sold Price:
pending
pending
pending
pending
pending
 
DOM:
477
10
114
79
   

1 bedroom: 17 contracts  

Average asking price: $389,452

Average days on Market: 72

2 bedroom: 20 contracts

Average asking price: $504,785

Average days on Market: 151

3 bedroom:  8 contracts

Average asking price: $673,337

Average days on Market: 119

4 bedroom:  1 contract pending  

Asking price was $949,000.  Days on market was 25

Stay informed with buying & selling advise, statistics, new listings, Be$t Buy$ and more!!

www.HobokenRealEstateBlog.com

If you would like specific information tailored to your Hoboken condo, email us direct at info@InvestHoboken.com

Search entire Hoboken MLS at www.InvestHoboken.com Then click browse Hoboken Listings

Edward (Eddie) Perez

Quick Facts About Foreclosure

Posted April 10, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: , , ,

An estimated 6 million families could be facing the question of foreclosure family2in the next three years, with nearly 1 in 10 mortgage holders either delinquent or in foreclosure. Following are facts about foreclosure we all need to be aware of:

1 out of every 200 homes will be foreclosed upon.
Source: Mortgage Bankers Association

Every three months, 250,000 new families enter into foreclosure.
Source: Mortgage Bankers Association

One child in every classroom in America is at risk of losing his/her home because their parents are unable to pay their mortgage.
Source: Mortgage Bankers Association

A slower real estate market can translate into falling prices and home values.

As a result, homeowners who opted for adjustable rate mortgages may now find that as their mortgage rate adjusts higher, their home value is lower and therefore refinancing is no longer an option.
Source: Mortgage Bankers Association

Six in 10 homeowners wish they understood the terms and details of their mortgage better.
Source: Freddie Mac/Roper poll of 2,031 U.S. homeowners

More than 6 in 10 homeowners delinquent in their mortgage payments are not aware of services that mortgage lenders can offer to individuals having trouble with their mortgage.
Source: Freddie Mac/Roper poll of 2,031 U.S. homeowners

Homeowners fail to contact their lender because they are embarrassed, don’t believe the lender can help, and/or believe it would cause them to lose their home more quickly.
Source: Freddie Mac/Roper poll of 2,031 U.S. homeowners,

The Cost of Foreclosure for Cities and Communities

Homes in foreclosure that become vacant provide sites for crime or other neighborhood problems. One foreclosure can impose up to $34,000 in direct costs on local government agencies, including inspections, court actions, police and fire department efforts, potential demolition, unpaid water and sewage, and trash removal.
Source: William C. Apgar, Mark Duda, and Rochelle Nawrocki Gorey, “The Municipal Cost of Foreclosures: A Chicago Case Study”

One foreclosure can result in as much as an additional $220,000 in reduced property value and home equity for nearby homes.
Source: William C. Apgar, Mark Duda, and Rochelle Nawrocki Gorey, “The Municipal Cost of Foreclosures: A Chicago Case Study”

For more information about President Obama’s new plan go to Obama’s Mortgage Rescue Plan or How an FHA mortgage can help a first time buyer.

To find out all the benefits and options for preventing foreclosure, go to Foreclosure Prevention Team Ready to Help in Hudson County contact Eddie Perez, Broker-REALTOR®, CDPE or Anoir Redouane, REALTOR®, CDPE. Their market includes Hoboken, Jersey City, Weehawken and Union City. They can be reached at 201-344-2886 or at eddie@InvestHoboken.com Prevent Foreclosure.

Hoboken Real Estate Market’s Newest Listings & Price Reductions

Posted April 11, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: Hoboken's newest listings

Tags: , , , , , , ,

There’s some great buys out there folks! Affordability is much better and interest rates are fantastic. Also, don’t forget that there is a first time home buyer credit of up to $8000 that you may qualify for. Check out our newest listings and price reductions. Your new home might just be waiting for you.

30 new condo listings (31 last week) and 4 new 1-4 Family homes (5 last week) hit the Hoboken market.

20 condo price reductions (37 last week)

(2) 1-4 family homes had price reductions (5 last week)

Check them all out.

Studio condo

1 new listing at the Hudson Tea Condos offered at $515,000 (1 last week) Click Here to View Listings

No price reductions. (1 last week)

1 bedroom condos

14 new listings starting at $279,000 (11 last week) Click Here to View Listings

7 price reductions (16 last week) Click Here to View Listings

2 bedroom condos

14 new listings starting at $429,000 (15 last week). Click Here to View Listings

10 price reductions (14 last week) Click Here to View Listings

3 bedroom condos

1 new listings starting at $662,000 (3 last week) Click Here to View Listings

3 price reductions (4 last week) Click Here to View Listings

4 bedroom condo

no new listings (1 last week)

No price reductions (1 last week)

1-family homes

No new listings (0 last week)

1 price reduction. Reduced from $669,000 to $655,000 (1 last week) Click Here to View Listings

2-4 family homes

4 new listings. (5 last week) Starting at $860,000 Click Here to View Listings

1 price reduction. Reduced from $850,000 to $774,000 (1 last week) Click Here to View Listings

Check the Hoboken Real Estate Blog every Friday for the newest real estate listings and price reductions of the week. We’ll post the most up-to-date listings of condos and 1-4 family homes. You can then plan to see any of these over the weekend.

Search entire Hoboken and surrounding area MLS listings at http://www.InvestHoboken.com and click on Browse Listings.

Interested in Foreclosures or Short Sale properties??? Email me your contact info and we’ll see if we can find the right property / investment for you. eddie@InvestHoboken.com

Edward (Eddie) Perez

Hoboken Condo Market Weekly Stats

Posted April 14, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: , , , ,

I hope everybody had a nice weekend enjoying the holiday with friends and family or just plain relaxing.  This past weeks real estate activity in Hoboken was rather uneventful, unless you were one of the transactions.  Here are the numbers.

Weekly statistics 4/05/09- 4/12/09

6 condos received firm offers that cleared attorney review which is down from 9 condos the previous report.  

6 condominiums closed last week.  7 closings the previous report.

As of today, there are a total of 125 Hoboken properties pending to close (124 last week).  

Here are the deals and opportunities from last week…..

Firm accepted offers:

1 bedroom

2 units received an accepted offer (3 last report)   Click Here to View Listings

These averaged 90 days on market

2 bedrooms

4 condos had accepted offers  (6 last report)    Click Here to View Listings

Average days on market for this group was 120.

3-4 bedrooms:

No accepted offers last week (0 last report) 

Sold Condos:  

Studios:

No closings (0 last report)

1 bedroom:

5 properties closed.    (5 last report)    Click Here to View Listings  Average listing price was $413,400 and average selling price was $387,500  (-6.26% of listing price)  Average days on market was 81.

2 bedrooms:

1 units sold.   (2 last report)   Click Here to View Listings   Listing price was $349,000.  Selling price was $333,500 (-4.44% of listing price).  Average days on market was 55.

3 – 4 bedrooms:

No units closed (0 last report)

Active for sale market:

As of today there are 538 Hoboken condos actively listed for sale in our MLS.  535 units on market last week.  Average asking price is $597,050 ($603,940 last week) and median price is $524,900 ($529,000 last week).  Days on market average 108 (107 last week).

Search entire Hoboken condo market at http://InvestHoboken.com   then click on Browse Hoboken Listings

I welcome your specific questions.  Email me at eddie@InvestHoboken.com

All of these statistics are compiled from the Hudson County Multiple Listing Service (HCMLS) and do not include  properties that are not listed on this MLS such as some new construction and for-sale-by-owners.

Firm accepted offers are offers that have cleared the mandatory attorney review process and are now considered a binding contract of sale. 

Edward (Eddie) Perez

Going Green in Hoboken

Posted April 17, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: Going Green in Hoboken

Tags: , , , , ,

I am sure you have heard by now gardenloft-ed034that Hoboken is the home of a new
green building. The Garden Street Lofts located at 1401 Garden St. was once was a coconut processing and storage warehouse is now transformed into Hoboken’s hippest, smartest, and only green residence.

The Garden Street Lofts is committed to a belief in building green by demonstrating its decision to seek LEED (Leadership
in Energy and Environmental Design) certification from the U.S.Green Building Council,the standard bearer for ecologically-conscious building practices in America.

Green buildings are sited, designed, constructed, and operated to enhance the well being of their occupants and support a healthy community and natural environment. In practical terms, green building is a whole-systems-approach to building that includes:

· Designing for livable communities

· Using sun and site to the building’s advantage for natural heating, cooling, and light

· Building quality, durable structures

· Reducing and recycling construction and demolition waste

· Insulating well and ventilating appropriately

· Incorporating durable, salvaged, recycled, and harvested materials

· Using healthy products and building practices

· Using energy-efficient and water-saving appliances, fixtures and technology

gardenloft-ed046When implemented holistically, these strategies serve to preserve our
environment for future generations by conserving natural resources and
protecting air and water quality. They provide benefits for us today by
increasing comfort and well-being and helping to maintain healthy air quality.

Finally, green building strategies are good for everyone’s pocketbook by
reducing maintenance and replacement requirements, reducing utility bills and lowering the cost of home ownership, and increasing property and resale values.

If you would like to take a tour of The Garden Street Lofts, or for assistance in finding the perfect home in Hoboken, contact Eddie Perez at (201) 344-2886 or go to Hoboken Condo Expert.

Will I Qualify for Refinancing Under Obama Housing Plan

Posted April 17, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: , , , , ,

With all of the talk about President Obama’s Homeowner Affordability and Stability Plan, have you wondered if you could quailify for refinancing? Following are the main provisions for refinancing:

1. Have a conforming loan backed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac. Approximately 60% of single-family “conforming” loans are backed by these two programs. These are the companies that buy the loans from your bank/servicer and then sell them to Wall Street. A conforming loan is one under $417,000 in many areas — or up to $729,500 in certain high-cost areas. Call your lender to find out if you qualify under Obama’s housing plan.

2. Your Loan to Value ratio can now be chp_currency_11as high as 105%. Under current conditions you cannot refinance mortgages where the loan-to-value (LTV) ratio exceeds 80 percent without some form of credit insurance. Under the Obama housing plan, the LTV has been raised to 105%, which means you qualify even if you owe between 80-105% of your mortgage. However, if you are severely “underwater” and owe more than 105% of your home’s value you will not qualify and may have to wait for mortgage relief via other lender driven provisions under the housing plan.

3. Allows borrowers with less than 20% equity in their homes to refinance to the current prevailing rate. However they must meet the above LTV criteria.

4. Timeframe Eligibilty. Only loans that originated on or before January 1, 2009 are eligible for this program. The modification program will be in effect until the end of 2012, but loans can only be adjusted once.

5. Bonus Payments. Borrowers who keep up with their new payments will receive up to $1,000 a year in principal reduction, for up to five years.

6. Modification Threshold. Loan servicers will follow a specified sequence of steps in order to reduce the monthly payment (with government subsidies) to no more than 31% of gross monthly income (DTI). More than 25% of home owners will qualify under the new refinancing criteria, but there are some restrictions to prevent abuse of these new provisions.

If you think you will qualify you should start getting ready to begin the refinancing process as soon as possible. Borrowers can now contact their loan servicers to see whether they are eligible for assistance.

For more information about President Obama’s new plan go to Obama’s Mortgage Rescue Plan or How an FHA mortgage can help a first time buyer.

To find out all the benefits and options for preventing foreclosure, go to Foreclosure Prevention Team Ready to Help in Hudson County contact Eddie Perez, Broker-REALTOR®, CDPE or Anoir Redouane, REALTOR®, CDPE. Their market includes Hoboken, Jersey City, Weehawken and Union City. They can be reached at 201-344-2886 or at eddie@InvestHoboken.com Prevent Foreclosure.

Hoboken Real Estate Market’s Newest Listings & Price Reductions

Posted April 18, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: Hoboken's newest listings

Tags: , , , , , , ,

Wow, how about a true 2 bedroom with a top floor corner exposure, skyline view, elevator building and hardwood floors for just $324,711!!   Click Here to View Listings  This was just listed.

Here are the other new listings / price reductions:

34 new condo listings (30 last week) and 7 new 1-4 Family homes (4 last week) hit the Hoboken market.  

39 condo price reductions (20 last week)

(1) 1-4 family homes had price reductions  (2 last week)

Check them all out.

Studio condo

No new listings (1 last week)   

1 price reduction.  (0 last week)    Click Here to View Listings

1 bedroom condos

8 new listings starting at $275,000  (14 last week)    Click Here to View Listings

12 price reductions  (7 last week)     Click Here to View Listings 

2 bedroom condos

19 new listings starting at $324,711 (14 last week).     Click Here to View Listings

20 price reductions   (10 last week)      Click Here to View Listings

3 bedroom condos

7 new listings starting at $469,000  (1 last week)      Click Here to View Listings

5 price reductions  (3 last week)      Click Here to View Listings

4 bedroom condo

no new listings (0 last week)   

1 price reduction  (0 last week)   Click Here to View Listings

1-family homes

5 new listings (0 last week) starting at $799,000    Click Here to View Listings

1 price reduction.  Reduced from $649,000 to $629,000 (1 last week)    Click Here to View Listings

2-4 family homes

2 new listings.  (4 last week) Starting at $750,000    Click Here to View Listings

No price reductions.  (1 last week)

Check the Hoboken Real Estate Blog every Friday for the newest real estate listings and price reductions of the week.  We’ll post the most up-to-date listings of condos and 1-4 family homes. You can then plan to see any of these over the weekend.

Search entire Hoboken and surrounding area MLS listings at http://www.InvestHoboken.com and click on Browse Listings.

Interested in Foreclosures or Short Sale properties???  Email me your contact info and we’ll

see if we can find the right property / investment for you.  eddie@InvestHoboken.com

Edward (Eddie) Perez

Hoboken Condo Market Weekly Stats

Posted April 20, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: , , , ,

Happy Monday.  A couple more condos went under contract this week than the previous week but not a significant amount. Inventory is rising as expected going into the spring.  I’ll keep monitoring how this effects the market as we move forward.

Weekly statistics 4/12/09- 4/19/09

10 condos received firm offers that cleared attorney review which is up from 6 condos from last weeks report.  

6 condos closed last week.  6 closings the previous report.

As of today, there are a total of 133 Hoboken properties pending to close (125 last week).  

Here are the deals and opportunities from last week…..

Firm accepted offers:

1 bedroom

2 units received accepted offers (2 last report)   Click Here to View Listings

These averaged 158 days on market

2 bedrooms

7 condos had accepted offers  (4 last report)     Click Here to View Listings

Average days on market for this group was 143.

3-4 bedrooms:

1 accepted offer (0 last report)   Click Here to View Listings 

90 days on market.

Sold Condos:  

Studios:

No closings (0 last report)

1 bedroom:
1 property closed.    (5 last report)      Click Here to View Listings  Listing price was $399,900 and selling price was $375,600  (-8.39% of listing price)  Original listing date was 11/16/06.   This was a gut renovated building.

2 bedrooms:

5 units sold.   (1 last report)    Click Here to View Listings  Average listing price was $455,580.  Average selling price was $437,500 (-3.96% of listing price).  Averaged 115 days on market.

3 – 4 bedrooms:

No units closed (0 last report)

Active for sale market:
As of today there are 546 Hoboken condos actively listed for sale in our MLS.  538 units on market last week.  Average asking price is $595,595 ($597,050 last week) and median price is $528,450 ($524,900 last week).  Days on market average 105 (108 last week).

Search entire Hoboken condo market at http://InvestHoboken.com   then click on Browse Hoboken Listings

I welcome your specific questions.  Email me at eddie@InvestHoboken.com

 

All of these statistics are compiled from the Hudson County Multiple Listing Service (HCMLS) and do not include  properties that are not listed on this MLS such as some new construction and for-sale-by-owners.

Firm accepted offers are offers that have cleared the mandatory attorney review process and are now considered a binding contract of sale.

Be$t Buy$ – Hoboken

Posted April 23, 2009 by eddieperez
Categories: Best Buys in Hoboken

Tags: , , , ,

Every week we’ll highlight some of the best buys and values for Hoboken condos and row houses.  If you’re looking for a one, two, three or 4 bedroom condo or a fabulous row house, check back often as these are sure to be the homes to move the fastest.

BEST BUYS-1 BEDROOM

1102 Washington St #6

Excellent uptown location with NYC bus at the corner and the Hudson River promenade just 2 short blocks away.  Newer kitchen with stainless appliances & granite counters.  
Offered at $349,000
Click Here to View Listings

650 2nd St #2H

Garage parking, almost 800 square feet and only 2 years young.  Seller is offering $1,500 towards closing costs plus 6 months free maintenance fee’s!  
Offered at $369,000.   
Click Here to View Listings

BEST BUYS-2 BEDROOM

301 Monroe St #501

Top floor, corner condo in elevator building with excellent skyline views.  Very nice layout, hardwood floors and lots of bright windows.  
Offered at $324,711
Click Here to View Listings

130 Bloomfield St #1

What a location!  Super close to the PATH, restaurants and Pier A Park.  Extra large private terrace.  
Offered at $419,000