1. Open houses are just that, open! There is no need to knock or ring the doorbell, just walk on in. 2. Unless otherwise stated, the courteous thing is to remove your shoes upon arriving at an open house. The agent on duty will indicate if shoes are required to tour any part of the house (ie. an unfinished basement). 3. Although it is a common practice for the homeowner to vacate the property during an open house, it is always best to reserve blunt or potentially negative comm [...]

Hosting an open house is not just about keeping your home tidy, although that is a given. In this tough economic market, making your home stand out amongst the rest is paramount! Here are ten great tips for hosting a fantastic open house: 1. Welcome potential buyers with fresh flowers on a table in the foyer. 2. Create a cheerful impression with good lighting so turn on lamps and fixtures. Let in as much outdoor light at possible by opening the curtains and blinds to illuminate the [...]

 Great economic reports, more job creation, continued low interest rates, pent-up buyer demand, and improving consumer confidence are all positive signs turning the Central Jersey real estate market from an icy white to a beautiful green. Gloria Zastko, founder of Gloria Zastko, Realtors says, "2013 will mark the return of The American Dream." In this accord the firm plans to host as many Open Houses as possible, every Sunday from 1 to 4 pm.  Open Houses are a win-win s [...]

No matter the size, having a designated pantry space in your kitchen is a fantastic asset and one that most home buyers are looking for. Don't overlook the utilitarian spaces in your home, they can be the best opportunities to have a little fun and make daily routines a little less tedious! Take this crowded and personality-less pantry for example. With just a little organization and paint this pantry is now just as lovely as the rest of the homeowner's house! Before: After: [...]

Dated paneling. If you are searching for a home in a nice neighborhood that needs a little bit of love you're bound to come across dated paneling. Whether it be in an office, a basement, or even the kitchen, you need not fear the paneling! If you are looking to sell your home with dated paneling, consider taking the time and effort now to transform the space and you will certainly reap the rewards in your sales price! This kitchen makeover is a prime example of taking an outdated space you [...]

  This large contemporary home listed for $549,000 boasts 4 bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths and backs to the The Banks course at Forsgate Country Club.  The entire home has been freshly painted with new carpeting on the stairway and second floor. If an open modern floor plan is what you desire, you've found it in this home! It even has cathedral ceilings in the living room and kitchen/dining area.  Some other great features of the home are the recessed lights and ceilin [...]

Aside from your home's curb appeal, the first chance to make a good impression to prospective buyers is what lies just beyond your front door: your entryway. Take this blah space before as an example. While it was perfectly functional before, the lack of style and personality would cause buyers to walk on through without really taking in the space's potential. With a few frames, some paint, and accessories this space is transformed and oh so welcoming. The homeowner chose to go ah [...]

Kitchen breakfast nooks can be a great spot in the home for everything from meals to kids crafts and everything in between. This mother took her blah breakfast nook and transformed the space with subtle painted gradient stripes on the wall and a fun bold color on the chairs. After the space seems transformed and all of the white painted furniture really elevates the room and makes it feel fresh and modern. Simple framed prints on the wall add personality and can easily be switched out for [...]

This fantastic home located in the desirable community of Milltown boasts 4 bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths, and a two car garage and is listed at $409,000. The inviting formal living room welcomes you into the home and leads straight into the sun-filled formal dining room. The large kitchen has plenty of space to move and work and opens up right into the nearby breakfast area with sliding doors out to the deck. The remodeled powder room is just one of the great ammenities listed fo [...]