Tag Archives: Keller williams realty

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The Good Life Goes on After 55 in The Village Grande at English Mill

Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey's best 55 and over community.

If you’re approaching retirement and looking to enjoy the good life with more time for your active lifestyle, you’ll want to check out The Village Grande at English Mill. Located in Egg Harbor Township, this adult only, 55+ community has it all, from finely appointed homes to community amenities and events throughout the year; there’s always something going on at The Village Grande.

Originally built between 2006-2017, there are six different floorplans, with each property boasting its own upgrades and features which were available at the time of construction. As a premier, developed community, home features may include security and high-tech options, extended patios, screened-in porches and year-round sunrooms. All properties have at least 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, and a 2-car garage. These single-family homes range from 1,558- 2,261 square feet on one or two levels.

The Village Grande at English Mill is six miles from I-76, about an hour drive to the Philadelphia International Airport, making the location ideal for anyone who loves to travel or has frequent visitors, but also wants to live outside a major metro area. The Village Grande is conveniently located near a wide variety of entertainment and activities, such as New Jersey beaches, casinos, and theme parks. Other exciting attractions are just a short drive away in nearby Atlantic City and Ocean City. Everyday needs and local fun are easily found in Egg Harbor Township as well. Convenience is just one reason The Village Grande is the perfect place for active adults to call home.

With countless amenities featured, there’s something for everyone at The Village Grande at English Mill. The Grande Club is a 10,000 square foot clubhouse which is the center of community life, including public and private events. The Club has a beautiful ballroom for any special occasion; residents can take full advantage of the facilities to celebrate that special birthday or anniversary.

In addition to space for events, the Grande Club features a fitness center with an indoor lap pool for year-round exercise, plus two saunas and locker rooms. Other amenities include meeting rooms, a lounge and catering kitchen, two card rooms, an arts and crafts studio, library, and billiards room. There’s also an outdoor pool with a sun deck open for seasonal use. Beyond swimming, residents enjoy the use of two tennis courts, two bocce ball courts, and a putting green. Add in scenic walking trails around two beautiful ponds, and you can see just how good life is at The Village Grande.

There’s never a shortage of ideas for what to do next at The Village Grande at English Mill. For those who enjoy the socializing offered by a 55-plus community, there are a number of interesting ways to connect and have a great time with your neighbors. Holiday celebrations are always big events with breakfasts, dinners, and parties inspired by the 4th of July, Halloween, Grandparent’s Day and more.

Sports-minded residents can enjoy fishing, cycling, jogging and tennis clubs. Keep your mind and your body active and intrigued with the walking or travel club, or mornings with Thai Chi and water aerobics. For hobbyists, there’s a selection of clubs and regularly scheduled activities to choose from. Take your pick of arts & crafts, computers, book clubs and gardening, just to name a few.

You’re also free to enjoy purely social clubs like Dine Around, the Women’s Club and a Veterans Club. Join tea parties, day trips around the region and a variety of different card and game nights – Pinochle or Canasta anyone? There’s something for everyone – maybe you’ll find something new to enjoy! Check out the full list of clubs and active lifestyle groups for what may spark your interest.

The different home models in The Village Grande range in floor plan and square footage. Two of the original model plans, the Deerfield and Eden, are properties with an extra room, ideal for a den or guest space. If you’re looking for more room, you’ll want to watch for these properties to come on the market. These properties are also priced in the mid-range of the market. Whether you want a single story or two-level home or are seeking a listing with some extra bells and whistles from when The Village Grande and English Mill first came available, you’ll want to work with an agent who knows the community. Matt Haviland has been working with buyers and sellers in this 55+ community for many years now and is familiar with the different floor plans and special features you may be looking for. If you like this community, you’ll also want to take a look at The Village Grande at Little Mill which boasts the same great floor plans and amenities in Egg Harbor Township.

For more information on The Village Grande at English Mill or its sister property The Village Grande at Little Mill and living in Egg Harbor Township, call Matt Haviland with The Haviland Group and Keller Williams Realty today at 609-338-3773 or via e-mail to find out how he can help you.

 

 

 

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Can I Buy a House in Atlantic County with No Money Down?

Atlantic County Real Estate

Many people continue to rent for fear of the unknowns of home buying. We’ve shared some information on several great programs for first-time home buyers in our last post. But what if you don’t have a down payment? There are some programs which allow no money down, but certain criteria must be met.

Can I buy a house in Atlantic County with no money down?

USDA Loans are backed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). These loans are also known as rural housing or rural development loans as they provide help with the purchase of houses located in certain rural areas and include zero down payment mortgage options for borrowers who qualify. Criteria for qualification includes household income, number of people living in the home and other factors such as approval of the property you are purchasing by area and size among other parameters.

USDA offers a helpful tool on their website to easily calculate the numbers you enter to determine your eligibility. Two types of single-family home loans are available with USDA, Single-Family Direct Home Loans and Single-Family Guaranteed Loans. Both programs have specific requirements for potential buyers which are outlined on the website. You can also search an address for eligibility to determine if a property in a small town or rural area of Atlantic County is covered. For example, just south of Egg Harbor, Corbin City is an area where there may be eligible homes due to its rural designation.

VA Loans programs assist active military members and veterans through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. These loan programs don’t require private mortgage insurance and they have no down payment mortgage options. While these loan programs are provided by private lenders and mortgage companies, the VA guarantees a portion of the loans to get the borrowers the best rates possible. This program is also available to surviving spouses of military personnel and veterans as well.

Can I buy a house in Atlantic County with no money down?The New Jersey HomeSeeker Program now offers $10,000 down payment assistance grants for residents of Atlantic, Burlington, Camden, Essex, Gloucester, Mercer, Passaic and Union Counties. This grant is available for first-time homebuyers who qualify and obtain first mortgage financing through the New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency’s (NJHMFA) Homeward Bound mortgage program. Contact our office to see if you qualify.

For more information on no down payment mortgage options, check out this information from Investopedia.  As always, Matt Haviland with The Haviland Group and Keller Williams Realty offers free consultation for first-time homebuyers. Contact Matt today at 609-338-3773 or via e-mail to find out how he can help you.

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First Time Homebuyer Mortgage Options Around Atlantic County

First Time Homebuyer Mortgage Options Around Atlantic County

First Time Homebuyer Mortgage Options Around Atlantic CountyYou’ve saved and planned and you’re ready to take the plunge into home ownership. There are many great mortgage choices for first-time homebuyers to consider. This list will break down some of the most popular options and provide links to find out more about the ones you may qualify for.

First Time Homebuyer Mortgage Options Around Atlantic County

FHA Loans are 15 or 30-year loans which are backed by the Federal Housing Administration under the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). FHA Loans usually allow approval for borrowers with lower credit scores. These loans can also help through low down payment mortgages and lower closing costs. You’ll have to pay a slightly higher rate for mortgage insurance however, which can be paid upfront or annually.

USDA Loans are based on income for qualification and backed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). These loans provide help with the purchase of houses located in certain rural areas and include zero down payment mortgage options for borrowers who qualify.

VA Loans are available to active military members and veterans through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and are partially backed by the same. The goal with this program is to assist veterans in purchasing houses. These loans can include no down payment mortgage options and don’t require private mortgage insurance. They do require a one-time funding fee which is a small percentage of the total loan amount.

Good Neighbor Next Door assistance program offers loans for houses which have been foreclosed on at half price to qualified borrowers. This is an incredible program and as such has stringent guidelines. The Good Neighbor Next Door program is available only to borrowers who work in public service sectors as law enforcement professionals, teachers, emergency medical technicians (EMTs) or firefighters. The firefighters and EMTs must also work within the same jurisdiction as the house they are purchasing. These homes are offered in “revitalization areas” as defined by the FHA. These areas generally have a high number of foreclosed properties available.

Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are government programs which help qualify first-time homebuyers who have low or moderate income with lenders.  The Fannie Mae HomePath Ready Buyer Program in particular offers qualified first-time homebuyers up to 3% toward closing costs for HomePath Properties which were foreclosures under their loan programs.

New Jersey State and Atlantic County Residents can also benefit from some wonderful down payment assistance options outlined in our previous post about First Time Homebuyers Government Programs. Check out the blog post to find out more about first time government programs that are available. These are great offerings specifically for area residents.

The options are too many to list but there’s sure to be something for most any first-time homebuyer to benefit from. For more choices and information see this informative Bankrate article.

Matt Haviland with The Haviland Group and Keller Williams Realty always offers free consultation for first-time homebuyers. Contact Matt today at 609-338-3773 or via e-mail to find out how he can help you.

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Take Advantage of First Time Homebuyer Programs Around Atlantic City

First Time Homebuyer Programs

First Time Homebuyer ProgramsSometimes growing up is hard to do and sometimes there’s the thrill of it all, the firsts you’ll experience. There are few things in life as thrilling as becoming a first-time homeowner. Buying your first property, getting the keys and walking through the threshold of a house which will become the first home of your dreams is an exhilarating experience. But where do you start? First-time homebuyers often have many questions about how to search for the features they desire in a house, how to get the best financing assistance and how to find a Realtor® they can trust. There are some great first time home buyers programs right now. Let’s look at how to qualify.

Take Advantage of First Time Homebuyer Programs Around Atlantic City

You’ll want to begin by saving for your down payment but how much do you have to put down to buy a house? Typically, conventional loans require 20% down, but as a first-time homebuyer you may be able to get help covering your down payment. It’s possible to lower or eliminate the amount you need to have up front for a down payment through federal, state and local government programs.

How do you qualify for first-time homebuyer government programs?

Your lender and buyer’s agent will be trusted sources in directing you to the best options which may be available to you. Some of the most common federal government mortgage options such as FHA and USDA loans are well-known and may offer solutions for low or no-down payments for those who qualify.

Most state and local governments offer some assistance as well. We dug a little deeper to find out.

 first-time homebuyer government programs are available in the area.

The Atlantic County Improvement Authority offers a down payment assistance program to individuals who have resided in Atlantic County for at least 12 months and who have not owned a home in two years or more. At a state level, The New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency offers several different programs for first-time homebuyers including down payment assistance and mortgage programs explained in a step-by-step guide to help you decide which options are best for you.

First Time Homebuyer ProgramsAll of this information can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Check out some great tips for first-time homebuyers from Nerd Wallet. They offer an easy-to-follow but detailed list with some general information to help you get started.

Now that you’re ready to set sail, the importance of having a trusted buyer’s agent is key in making the home-buying process go smoothly. You’ll want to find someone who’s ready to work for you, who’s also experienced in serving first time homebuyers and who knows the area real estate market. Matt Haviland with The Haviland Group and Keller Williams Realty offer free consultations for first-time homebuyer programs. Contact Matt today at 609-338-3773 or via e-mail to get started on the path to the door of your first home.

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Keller Williams Realty Atlantic Shore Participates In Atlantic City Schools Anti Bullying Program

Keller Williams Realty "Red Day" and Texas Avenue School Sponsor Student Event.

Keller Williams Realty Atlantic Shore Team participates annually in the corporate Keller Williams’ Red Day. Red Day was designed to be a day that thousands of Keller Williams Realtors and staff in every state give back to their communities in a way that will have a drastic, positive impact on that community.

On May 11th, 2017, the agents of Keller Williams Realty Atlantic Shore Team partnered with Texas Avenue Public School in Atlantic City, NJ to help promote their anti-bullying program titled “Live the Pledge.” 100+ students participated with KW volunteers in a celebratory, fun-filled day. There was carnival games, a scavenger hunt, awards and a public dedication to the school presented by the KW team.

The local KW office also donated outdoor basketball and soccer equipment that the school was lacking.  The challenge faced by all New Jersey schools is to create a positive and healthy school climate. The Anti-Harassment Intimidation and Bullying (H.I.B.) Bill of Rights goes beyond the requirements of providing a full investigation of alleged HIB incidents, consequences for those found in violation of the Bill of Rights and support for the children found to be a victim.  Since the Bill of Rights in 2011, Texas Ave. School has implemented several school and community-wide programs that promote a positive school environment. Each program has given birth to the other. The inception of the Bucket Filling Philosophy, led to the “Take a Stand, Lend a Hand” initiative, which resulted in the current incentive program of “Live the Pledge.”

Keller Williams Realty is grateful to have partnered up with Texas Avenue school children who “Live the Pledge.” Their commitment of creating a positive climate for their classmates is truly inspiring.

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How To Be Up In A Down Real Estate Market

Our office numbers are way up. Here's why.

Despite a challenging seller’s market, high unemployment and lots of uncertainty our office has out performed the competition.  Why?  We treat our agents as partners and stakeholders.  We are the top training company in real estate and we study the market to be able advise our clients how to be successful in today’s new real estate economy.

Keller Williams Realty Atlantic Shore

COMPARING…

March 2015 to March 2016

 

 Keller Williams Realty Atlantic Shore South Jersey Shore Regional Multiple Listing Service Outperforming the Market
Listings Taken Volume                         +23.28% 9.44% 13.84%
Listings Taken Units                   +46.94% 1.65% 45.29%
Closed Production List Side Volume +109.53% -6.35%       115.88%
Closed Production List Side Units +62.50% 4.54% 57.96%
Closed Production Total Volume +33.85% -6.35% 40.20%
Closed Production Total Units +18.60% 4.54% 14.06%

Matthew and Richard Haviland The Haviland GroupNumbers reported above are representative of South Jersey Shore MLS average percentages of all brokerages represented in the MLS.

Our Mission:  To teach people how to consistently implement the Keller Williams models and systems so they can transform their lives and businesses.

Our Vision:  We are a passionate team of real estate leaders that attract extraordinary talent and wealth building opportunities.

When you’re choosing a real estate agent and company to work with consider Me, Matthew Haviland, and Keller Williams Realty Atlantic Shore.

Best wishes, Matt

P.S. For Great Articles and fun facts download and view my May Newsletter here:  May Newsletter – Matt