Bergen county news with an emphasis on aspects affecting real estate, residency and community issues.
May 2010 – week 1 Issue
Improvements in real estate
Home prices in Bergen County
Road rules rule in Bergen County
Modular homes made more energy efficient
Buyers go green
New statistics on real estate brought in a breath of relief for many home sellers. Home sales were noted to rise more than expected in the month of March across the United States. As per the National Association of Realtors, sales of previously occupied homes were seen to rise by 6.8% to a seasonally adjusted rate that stood at 5.35 million in April 2010. This was noted to be higher than the anticipated rate of 5.2% as per the economists of Thomson Reuters. Many economists and real estate experts expressed that this was a positive sign that displayed the housing and commercial real estate market to stabilize across the country. However, few realtors expressed their doubts stating that this could be a temporary hike caused due to government incentives. It was noted that many of these incentives pushed various home buyers into closing their housing deals. The statistics may again show a downward trend once the government scheme deadlines close.
Prices of Bergen County homes and the neighborhood continued to decline but at a much slower pace. As per the Standard and Poor’s/Case-Shiller index, home prices dropped in the New York metropolitan area but were seen to be steadying in other parts of the country. Figures indicated that home prices in the New York metropolitan area and parts of north Jersey fell by 4.1% from February 2009 to February 2010. However across the nation, figures indicated a rise of 0.7%, the first time ever from December 2006. While prices show a positive trend across the nation, figures are seen to fluctuate from county to county. Bergen County Real Estate , prices for example, were seen to remain more or less steady. Statistics from the New Jersey Multiple Listing Service showcased that the median home price of $397,500 in Bergen County remained unchanged from the past year. The volume of home sales in the region was however noted to rise by 27%.
Road rules rule in Bergen County
In new developments made to assist residents of the various Bergen County towns, officials are now stepping up road safety, amidst other measures. The pedestrian crossing law which was enforced last month, will be stressed upon in this month of May. In this regard, officials will stress that motorists have to come to a complete halt for walkers till they reach the oncoming lane. Measures have especially been stepped up in the town of Teaneck where tickets are being issued to all those who do not follow the rule. Officials state that this law is of utmost importance near active malls and busy crosswalks as there are many pedestrians trying to cross the unsafe roads. Statistics indicate that various deaths of pedestrians while crossing have also taken place, a figure which authorities aim to minimize through this new law. However, it is also added that the law holds good not just for drivers but pedestrians too. The latter must not jaywalk, cross against a signal or interfere with traffic.
Modular homes made more energy efficient
Home buyers who today prefer energy efficient options can benefit greatly from the new trend of modular homes. As modular homes are pre-designed and set up in modules, the design can integrate energy efficiency into its elements quite well. This was seen in working when such a construction received the Energy star certification by the New Jersey Clean Energy Program. In order to create energy star certified buildings, constructors often have to spend a little extra funds, usually 2% to 3% more than conventional constructions. However many experts feel that this is worth it, as energy savings can account to 20% to 30% in these houses. Also, as modular homes are assembled, rather than constructed at the site, it is much easier to insulate thoroughly. The wastage is also minimal as modular houses have standard sizes and all boards are cut using computer saws that cause minimal wastage.
Home buying trends indicate that today many are moving towards purchasing ‘green’ properties. Being environment friendly does help to boost up the sale of your home. Tapping on to this trend, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) now provides a tool kit to help buyers identify green properties and then invest in them. The Green MLS tool kit that is available through the NAR has various features for the environment-conscious home buyer. Besides assisting this segment it also helps realtors promote and provide information on environment friendly dwellings. This kit provides information on the green home industry and on why adopting a green initiative makes sense for the Multiple Listing Service. The kit also provides strategies for effective changes that can have positive impact towards the environment. Case studies of various successful green initiatives in the region and how these can be adapted have also been given in the tool kit. Special features in the tool kit include ‘Top ten ways an MLS or association can go green’. Purchasing the tool kit can have various advantages as home buyers will know where to invest their funds and enjoy savings later on. More details on the toolkit, NAR and other information can be accessed from www.realtor.org.
Buy a Home in Bergen County
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- 14 Questions to ask a Realtor
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- Additional Reports
- How To Get Top Dollar In Any Market
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- Six Ways To Beat The Stress Of Buying A Home
- Different Reasons to Own Your Own Home
- Things You Should Know about Moving
- When Selling a Home
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Find out more about Bergen County homes available for sale. Anat Eisenberg can help you find your dream real estate property. Anat is no ordinary real estate agent. In short, she is professional, honest and dedicated. Call: 201-341-4765 or email here.