JoAnna and Gail's Real Estate Thoughts

Commuters Delight!! Middletown condo ready for new owners!

Sat, 24 Sep 2011 20:29:39 -0700

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Description

Move in Condition!

2 bedroom, 2 full bath, Upper Level condo in sought after Beacon Place Community in Middletown, New Jersey.

Newer laminate flooring welcomes you into this well maintained unit. Desirable, open floor plan with kitchen, dining area and living room with sliders to balcony with extra storage closet.

Amenities include large room sizes, separate laundry room with additional storage and walk-in-closet in master bedroom.

Fabulous location! Excellent for commuters with convenient access to train and bus. Minutes to the Belford Ferry with service to Downtown Manhattan. Close proximity to beaches and shore towns.

Actual zip is 07718.

Features

Bedrooms: 2Bathrooms: 2Year Built: 2000Subdivision: Beacon PlaceLocated on Floor #: 2Floors in Bldg: 2School District: MiddletownAgent Name: JoAnna Siminerio/Gail SzelugaBroker: Weichert, RealtorsMLS #: 21123670

Location

214 Wedgewood Circle Middletown NJ 07748

Gail Szeluga e-Pro®,ABR®, SFR

NJAR Circle of Excellence 2010 & 2011
Manalapan/Marlboro Office
732-580-7893 Cell
www.SoldByGail.com
Gail@SoldByGail.com

Manalapan Township 2012 Photo Contest - "An Appreciation of Where I Live"

Sun, 19 Feb 2012 07:22:11 -0800

Manalapan Township 2012 Photo Contest - "An Appreciation of Where I Live"

The Township of Manalapan is pleased to announce the holding of its 4th annual photo contest.The 2012 theme is “Manalapan – An Appreciation of Where I Live” – a repeat of the first photo contest.The Contest will be looking for pictures of any scene, object, event, people or activity that occurs in Manalapan that inspires an appreciation of residing in the town.Each year’s contest has been very successful as over 160 photos have been submitted in the first 3 years.

“We encourage all Manalapan residents to consider submitting a photo.Whether it came from a walk in one of the parks, a beautiful surprise in a backyard or the capture of a moment of people enjoying themselves at a Manalapan event, any photo that brings out the positive qualities of the Town are welcome. We want to make it as difficult as possible on our Judges.” said Mayor Susan Cohen.“I am appreciative of the Manalapan Arts Council assuming the stewardship of the contest again this year and want to personally thank its leadership and in particular Barbara Miller for agreeing to co-chair the project.I still look at the photos from the 2011 contest which are displayed in our Town Hall Court Room and am so impressed with the talents of this community.”

The contest is open to all Manalapan residents.Township residents can only enter one photo.Photographs must include a brief description (25 words or less) and the location/event of the photo. Awards will be given in the following categories:<12 years old, 12-17 years of age and adult (18 years of age and over).All photos will be on display at the Manalapan Under the Stars community event on June 16, 2012 where a special “Peoples Choice” award will be given to the photograph that garners the most votes that day from the visiting and judging public.

Photographs must be received by 4:30 p.m. on May 8, 2012.Photographs can be submitted by email to photocontest@mtnj.org (file must be less than 1.5mb) or dropped off at the Manalapan Township Health Department (photographic prints must not be larger than 5” x 7”).The full set of rules and the submission form are available online at the Township website – www.mtnj.org – or at the Manalapan Township Health Department.Please remember a submission form must accompany the photograph.Forms are also available on the Township web site or at the Manalapan Township Health Department.

For more information please contact David Richardson in the Health Department at 732-446-8345.

2012 Photo Contest Flyer

2012 Photo Contest Application

Gail Szeluga e-Pro®,ABR®, SFR

NJAR Circle of Excellence 2010 & 2011
Manalapan/Marlboro Office
732-580-7893 Cell
www.SoldByGail.com
Gail@SoldByGail.com

Manalapan Englishtown Preschool Program

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 21:22:25 -0800

Program open to 4-year-olds

The Manalapan-Englishtown Regional School District will be offering an Integrated Preschool Program at the John I. Dawes Early Learning Center, Gordons Corner Road, Manalapan, which will be open to 4-year-old children who live in Manalapan and Englishtown.

Classes will be taught by certified teachers and supported by a paraprofessional aide. The program which will be aligned with the New Jersey State Department of Education's Preschool Teaching and Learning Expectations will provide an inclusive educational environment for preschool children, according to information provided by the school district.

Typically developing children and special needs children will be included in the program. The class will run from 9:50 a.m. to 12:05 p.m. daily for the length of the 2009-10 school year.

The program will accommodate a total of 16 students. Eight nondisabled students will be selected for the program through a lottery drawing should the number of applicants exceed the number of openings. Tuition for the school year will be $3,500. Transportation to the program is the responsibility of the parents/guardians.

Parents/guardians who are interested in having their child attend this program should submit a letter by Aug. 4 with their child's name, birth date, address and telephone number to Frank J. Sein, Director of Pupil Personnel Services, Manalapan-Englishtown Regional Schools, 36 Gordons Corner Road, Manalapan, NJ 07726.

Questions may be directed to the Office of Pupil Personnel Services at 732-786-2750.

Gail Szeluga e-Pro®,ABR®, SFR

NJAR Circle of Excellence 2010 & 2011
Manalapan/Marlboro Office
732-580-7893 Cell
www.SoldByGail.com
Gail@SoldByGail.com

3103 Smoke House Court, Freehold, NJ

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 22:04:22 -0800

$239,900!!

Welcome home to this light and bright, extremely well maintained Springfield model in Freehold’s Strickland Farm community!

Gleaming hardwood floors invite you to come inside and see all the amenities this home has to offer. Outstanding features include: updated eat-in kitchen, large living room/dining room combo with gas fireplace and sliders to private patio, custom paint colors, recessed lighting, finished basement with full bath, spacious master bedroom with walk-in closet, private master bath and vaulted ceiling and attic storage.

Buy with confidence as furnace, air conditioning and hot water heater have been recently replaced.

___________________________________________________________________________________

Click to Search the Monmouth and Ocean County Multiple Listing Service.

Click to Sign Up For My Homefinder Service to receive automated emails when new homes come on the market that match YOUR criteria.

JoAnna Siminerio
Weichert Realtors - Marlboro / Manalapan
732-598-6823 cell 732-536-4400 x116 (office)
JoAnna@JoTheRealtor.com
www.JoTheRealtor.com

Let's Connect!

Monroe Manor Townhouse

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 15:39:49 -0800

Welcome home to this well cared for 3 Bedroom, 2.5 bath townhome in sought after Monroe Manor community! Built in 2008, this “like new” home offers a prime, private location, backing to woods. Other outstanding features include: upgraded eat-in kitchen with stainless steel appliances, granite countertops and custom center island, custom paint in today’s designer colors, spacious living room/dining room combo, 2^nd floor laundry, attic storage and more! Convenient to NJ Turnpike.

Gail Szeluga e-Pro®,ABR®, SFR

NJAR Circle of Excellence 2010 & 2011
Manalapan/Marlboro Office
732-580-7893 Cell
www.SoldByGail.com
Gail@SoldByGail.com

High School Opportunities for the Freehold Regional High School District

Sun, 15 Jan 2012 19:58:45 -0800

One of the most popular questions I get from buyers looking to make a move to the Manalapan/Marlboro area is "how are the schools?" I have two children who are currently enrolled in the Manalapan Elementary and Monmouth County Vocational school systems. To date, the school districts I've experienced have not let me down and in fact, have far exceeded my expectations.

When my daughter was graduating middle school, I couldn't believe the variety of choices she had for where to go to high school. There truly is "something for everyone." Admission to some programs is based on academic testing/grades and others could be based on a written essay, interview or even an audition! Some programs have pre-requisite courses that need to be taken in middle school. Parents should familiarize yourself with these programs when their children are in 7th grade so you can make the best choices when considering their classes for 8th grade.

Alternatively, children can go to the schools they are zoned for based on their mailing address. Keep in mind, the town you live in is not necessarily the high school for which you are zoned!! There are parts of Manalapan Township where the children go to Freehold Township High School and parts of Marlboro and Freehold Township where the kids will go to Colts Neck High School! Here is a link to a guide for streets that are not zoned for their hometown high schools.

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The Freehold Regional High School District is a public regional school district serving students in grades 9-12 from eight communities in western Monmouth County, New Jersey, United States. The district, consisting of six high schools, is the largest regional high school district in the state of New Jersey. The district serves students from Colts Neck Township, Englishtown, Farmingdale, Freehold Borough, Freehold Township, Howell Township, Manalapan Township and Marlboro Township.

The curriculum at each of the high schools is the same for all academic subjects. A high priority is placed on student performance and staff accountability. More than 87 percent of the students pursue higher education, including the most prestigious colleges in the nation. At all of the high schools, SAT scores consistently exceed state and national averages, and HSPA scores at all schools are well above state averages.

Students living within zone of The Freehold Regional High School District are offered more than just the opportunity for an award winning high school education. Students are given the option to participate in one of the specialized Learning Centers, Academies or perhaps attend one of the career oriented schools of the award winning Monmouth County Vocational School District. Note: The Freehold Regional High School District provides bussing for all Academy, Learning Center and Vocational School District students.

LEARNING CENTERS

Learning Centers are four-year programs of academic study offered to a selected group of highly motivated students who have demonstrated interests and abilities in particular fields of study. Students and faculty of a particular program join together to form a unique learning community located within the comprehensive high school setting. All Learning Centers include in depth study of targeted courses on an advanced level, with many courses meeting the requirements of Advanced Placement or college level work. Learning Center courses fall under traditional academic disciplines such as science, math, social studies, and language. However the four-year sequence of course work combines to make an integrated and interdisciplinary academic experience for students. The centers address the core skills, knowledge and values that are essential to success in high school and in preparation for acceptance to a competitive four-year college or university. All 8th grade students from a sending high school in our district are eligible to apply. Click the program name for a short video describing the program.

Business Administration - Marlboro High School

The Business Administration Learning Center, offers a four-year program to talented, high achieving students who wish to pursue their interests in business administration and management. Courses include Economic Geography, Business Law, American Economic History I & II, AP Economics, Business Computer Systems, Business Principles & Applications, Accounting, and an Entrepreneurship Seminar. Classroom activities are augmented with guest lectures, field experiences, and close affiliations with business and industry. Opportunities for counseling and career orientation to colleges and universities are available. A prerequisite for program admission is satisfactory completion of Algebra I in the 8^th grade.

Humanities - Howell High School

The Scholars' Center for the Humanities, offers a four-year program that assists highly talented and motivated students to develop advanced research skills, superior analytical and critical thinking skills, and sophisticated written and verbal communication skills while studying the many facets of American culture. Students experience an intensive, interdisciplinary approach to the liberal arts through course work in literature, arts, history, cultures, philosophy, and research strategies.

Contemporary Global Issues - Freehold Township High School

The focus of this program is an intensive study of global regions, international challenges, cultures, economies and governments. Students with an interest in international development, diplomacy and world order are challenged with an accelerated and unique curriculum within the high school experience. A comprehensive language program enables students to gain proficiency in a world language. Seniors in the program participate in a culminating independent research project exploring an international problem and presenting their findings and recommendations at the Contemporary Global Issues Research Symposium.

Medical Sciences - Freehold High School

The Medical Sciences Learning Center, offers a four-year program for students interested in the medical and natural sciences. Students work and study in a creative environment, invigorated by contact with specialists in the science and health care fields. Advanced program curricula includes Lab Biology, Math, Research, Statistics, Introduction to Computers, Chemistry; Biochemistry/ Cell Physiology, Calculus, Anatomy/Physiology, and Human Genetics. The program enables students to develop research and process skills, which serve as an excellent preparation for future training in the health science. Articulation with medical and research facilities prepare students for an extensive junior year research project. A prerequisite for program admission is satisfactory completion of Algebra I in the 8th grade.

Science and Engineering - Manalapan High School

Science and Engineering offers a 4-year program of interdisciplinary studies for gifted students interested in pursuing careers in mathematics, engineering, or the physical sciences. Working with specialists who promote creativity, students receive an accelerated preparation in science, math, computer science, and electronics. The program includes courses in Biology, Chemistry, Physics C&C E/M, Statistics, Calculus BC, Multi Variable Calculus and Linear Algebra, Computer Science., Algebra II, Geometry, Pre-Calculus, and Electronics. The program of study culminates in a full year of research in 12th grade that focuses on specific areas of interest, e.g.: robotics; engineering design; laser technology; chaos theory; and artificial intelligence. A prerequisite for program admission is satisfactory completion of Algebra I in the 8^th grade

Law and Public Service - Colts Neck High School

The Center for Law and Public Service, is a four-year program for students with demonstrated interests and abilities in history, politics, government, law, volunteerism and leadership. Targeted skills for development include problem solving, critical thinking and reading, written and oral communication, research, and organization. The values of citizenship, justice, and service serve as the foundation for academic study. Students study history as it relates to the development of the US and the evolution of world societies and governments, as well as political thought, ethical philosophy, and leadership theory. Special attention is given to NJ history and civic affairs. Skills and knowledge are enhanced by active experiences in volunteerism and public service on the school, local, state and national levels. Career opportunities are explored during externships in government offices, volunteer agencies, police departments, and emergency and fire services.

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To help you decide if a Learning Center is right for you, ask yourself the following questions. Your responses will help you to decide whether or not you are eligible to apply.

Do my grades in the subjects that are the academic focus of the learning center demonstrate that I am ready to accept the challenge of the program?

Have I demonstrated that I can balance the demands of accelerated classes while still participating in sports, clubs, hobbies and other extra-curricular activities?

Do my personal interests match the focus of the learning center?

Am I taking the prerequisite course, Algebra I, for application to Business Administration, Science and Engineering, and the Medical Science Learning Centers?

Can I identify two teachers that will provide me with an excellent recommendation for these programs?

Have my scores on standardized tests been strong?

Am I willing to attend the high school where this program is located?

ACADEMIES

Academy programs are four-year programs of specialized coursework and experiences for students who have a particular career interest. The programs integrate career and technical courses in addition to the traditional academic curriculum. Students who attend our academies benefit from being part of a career-oriented learning community while at the same time being a fully participating student within a comprehensive high school. The academy environment encourages students to engage in meaningful learning activities that are relevant to real-world settings. Students who attend academies are prepared to directly enter the work force where they can immediately use the knowledge and skills; attend a post-secondary technical program; or attend a two or four year college.

Animal and Botanical Science - Freehold Township High School

The Animal and Botanical Academy is a four-year program covering topics such as floral and landscape design, plant and animal science, greenhouse production, food science, and natural resources management. The program consists of three integral parts: classroom instruction, supervised Agricultural Education (SAE), and participation in National Organization for Agriculture Education, (FFA). Participation in these organizations provides students with an opportunity to build leadership skills, serve the community, and explore career opportunities. An articulation agreement with Mercer County Community College allows students to earn college credits for courses completed while attending the Animal and Botanical Program.

Computer Science - Freehold High School

The Computer Science Academy is designed for students interested in exploring the fields of Computer Science or Computer Engineering. The first two years emphasize the basic components of Computer Science and various programming languages. Specialized math courses, combining Geometry, Algebra and Discrete Math, are integrated into the curriculum. Junior/senior classes are equivalent to second and third year computer science courses at the college level. A prerequisite for program admission is enrollment in and the satisfactory completion of Algebra I in the eighth grade with a "B" or better average.

Culinary Arts/Hospitality Management - Freehold High School

The Culinary Arts/Hospitality Management Academy is a four-year career exploration program that prepares students for employment in the hospitality industry, as well as admission to college or post-secondary culinary schools. Courses include specialized math and science and "hands-on" work experience in menu planning and food preparation. Students gain real work experience through the operation of the 5-Star Cafe - a fully licensed restaurant in Freehold High School. This unique program, designed for students with a wide range of ability levels, offers an opportunity to be successful in both academic and skill performance components

Fine and Performing Arts – Howell High School

The Fine and Performing Arts Learning Center, located at Howell High School, provides an opportunity for highly motivated students to channel and further develop their interests and talents in the arts. The center prepares students for further training and/or performance at colleges/ conservatories by developing self-discipline, analytical/ critical thinking skills, and an appreciation for all the arts. A four- year sequence of classes is offered in the following majors: Acting, Dance, Entertainment Technology-Video, and Entertainment Technology-Music. Class work is augmented with field trips, lectures, and master classes offered by visiting artists. Students participate in a variety of creative and performance opportunities.

Navy JROTC Character and Leadership Development – Colts Neck High School

This four year course of study encompasses three main subject areas: Leadership, Naval Science, and Physical Training. The Leadership curriculum develops skills in study, time management, and personal leadership, as well as self-discipline and self-reliance. The roles and capabilities of the U.S. Armed Forces, particularly sea power, shipboard life, national security and naval history are reviewed. Cadets learn military customs, courtesies, drills, ceremonies and respect for the flag, and develop a sense of patriotism through community and school service. The leadership value of fitness is reinforced with weekly physical training. This is a dynamic opportunity for students to develop leadership qualities in a nurturing and exciting environment.

Law Enforcement and Public Safety (LEPS) – Manalapan High School

This program is a highly focused program for students with specific interests in law enforcement, fire fighting, homeland security and emergency preparation and response. Course study includes criminal justice, civics, law enforcement, physical training, forensic and fire science. Students will receive training in various public safety areas. Skills and knowledge are further enhanced by active participation in volunteer programs and frequent articulation with local police and volunteer agencies.

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To help you decide if an Academy is right for you, ask yourself the following questions. Your responses will help you decide whether or not you are eligible to apply.

Do my personal and career interests match the focus of the academy?

Have I participated in classes, after school activities, hobbies or other activities that demonstrate that I have had some experience with the focus of the academy?

Have I demonstrated that I can balance my interests and my required school work and be successful at both?

Am I taking the prerequisite course, Algebra I, for application to the Computer Science Academy?

Can I identify two teachers that will provide me with an excellent recommendation for these programs?

Can I identify one other professional who has knowledge of my performing arts talent and who will provide me with an excellent recommendation for FPAA and for JROTC?

Am I willing to participate in an audition for FPAA and/or an interview for JROTC?

Am I willing to attend the high school where this program is located?

MONMOUTH COUNTY VOCATIONAL SCHOOL DISTRICT (MCVSD)

The Monmouth County Vocational School District Academies are a collection of theme-based public schools. These competitive admission academies are open to all 9th grade students in Monmouth County. The MCVSD prepares students for an evolving workplace and further education through achievement of the New Jersey Core Curriculum Content Standards at all grade levels in specialized academic, career and technical programs and lifelong learning opportunities.

Academy of Allied Health & Science (AAHS)

The Academy of Allied Health and Science prepares and motivates students to pursue further education towards a career in the medical sciences through a rigorous specialized curriculum and community-based partnerships, inspiring students to serve society with compassion, skill and vision.

This specialized high school Is located in Neptune Township, in close proximity to Jersey Shore Medical Center and other Health Care facilities. AAHS provides a Continuous Program of College Preparatory Course work for students who are interested in exploring careers in the health and medical sciences with a heavy emphasis on the use of computer technology in the Allied Health field.

Biotechnology High School (BTHS)

Located in Freehold Township, Biotechnology High School provides a collaborative learning environment with a life science focus that prepares students for higher education, the evolving workplace, and citizenship in the global community through a challenging curriculum, exploration of scholarly research, design and implementation of original investigations, and interactive partnerships. The life science theme emphasizes scientific research, critical thinking, problem solving, technology and team work. Eighty-five percent of the graduates in 2011 selected college majors in biological sciences, physical sciences, engineering and pharmacy. BTHS has articulation agreements with New Jersey universities as well as internship partnerships with many top bio/pharmaceutical companies in the state. All junior and senior students at BTHS are International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Candidates. Seventy-three percent of the Class of 2011 earned their IB Diploma.

Communications High School (CHS)

Located in Wall Township, Communications High School, a small, personalized academy with a career focus, provides a theme-based integrated curriculum in conjunction with community and industry partnerships. Monmouth County students interested in the field of communications acquire knowledge, skills, and ethics in a unique and challenging educational environment. As a highly competitive specialized school, CHS selects 80 students each year from over 29,000 students enrolled in 26 public and 10 private schools across the county. CHS provides a college preparatory program in Communications that serves the community by providing exemplary learning experiences in areas such as New Media, Journalism and Publishing , Commercial Art, and TV/Radio Broadcasting. Every course is offered at the honors level.

High Technology High School (HTHS)

Located on the campus of Brookdale Community College in Lincroft, High Technology High School is a pre-engineering career academy that emphasizes the interconnections among mathematics, science, technology and the humanities. HTHS prepares students to become creative problem solvers through a rigorous specialized curriculum and community-based partnerships. Since its founding, the admission process has become increasingly competitive. Seventy-five students are selected each year from a pool of over three hundred outstanding applicants. Recognized twice as both a NJ Star School and a No Child Left Behind Blue Ribbon School, the US Department of Education has described HTHS as a "benchmark school." It went on to say the school "evidences that its approach embraces student, faculty, staff, and administration alike in a mission of excellence, requiring the most of, and providing the most to, all who enter there."

Marine Academy of Science & Technology (MAST)

To provide small, nurturing, student-centered, learning environment for young people in New Jersey; who are talented and are truly interested in the areas of: Marine and Environmental Studies. Located on historic and scenic Sandy Hook, this unique location enables the students to have regular scientific contact on the beaches, the bay and the Atlantic Ocean. The Marine Academy is fully accredited by the Middle States Association of Schools and Colleges and offers small classes with close personal attention. In 1998, the Marine Academy was designated a Blue Ribbon School as well as a New American High School by the United States Department of Education; these are just two of the many the innovative program has received throughout its years. The school's curriculum focuses on marine sciences and marine technology/engineering. The M.A.S.T. program requires each student to participate in the Naval Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (NJROTC) in lieu of Physical Education.

Colts Neck

Freehold

Freehold Township

Howell

Manalapan

Marlboro

AAHS

BTHS

CHS

HTHS

MAST

All information deemed reliable as of 1/15/2012.

___________________________________________________________________________________

Click to Search the Monmouth and Ocean County Multiple Listing Service.

Click to Sign Up For My Homefinder Service to receive automated emails when new homes come on the market that match YOUR criteria.

JoAnna Siminerio
Weichert Realtors - Marlboro / Manalapan
732-598-6823 cell 732-536-4400 x116 (office)
JoAnna@JoTheRealtor.com
www.JoTheRealtor.com

Let's Connect!

Get Linked to Manalapan, New Jersey!

Fri, 26 Dec 2008 13:43:40 -0800

In my work as a Manalapan NJ Realtor, as well as, my life as a Manalapan Mom and homeowner, I've been collecting links to some great websites where you will find information on life in Manalapan Township, New Jersey.

I think it would be great to build upon and share this list of resources.

Please email me and I will add your favorite links!

Manalapan Township Information

The Official Manalapan Township Website

Manalapan Township Important Phone Numbers

Localism Information on Manalapan New Jersey

Manalapan Township Census Information

The Official Manalapan Township Police Explorer Website

Manalapan NJ Walk Score

Manalapan New Jersey Residents Group on Facebook

Monmouth County Library (Manalapan NJ Headquarters)

Manalapan Schools

Manalapan-Englishtown Regional School District

Freehold Regional High School District

High School Learning Centers and Academies

Manalapan High School

Monmouth County Vocational School District

Department of Education - Manalapan Township School Report Card

Data for the Manalapan-Englishtown Regional School District

Great Schools Information for Manalapan, New Jersey

Commuting to New York City

New Jersey Transit

Academy Bus Lines

New Jersey Government Information

New Jersey Citizen's Guide to Government

Monmouth County Information

Monmouth County Website

Financing Information

Understanding Different Types of Loans

Refinancing

Closing Costs

Manalapan Realtor

JoAnna Siminerio, Weichert Realtors

JoAnna Siminerio
Weichert Realtors - Marlboro/Manalapan
JoSiminerio@optonline.net
www.JoTheRealtor.com

___________________________________________________________________________________

Click to Search the Monmouth and Ocean County Multiple Listing Service.

Click to Sign Up For My Homefinder Service to receive automated emails when new homes come on the market that match YOUR criteria.

JoAnna Siminerio
Weichert Realtors - Marlboro / Manalapan
732-598-6823 cell 732-536-4400 x116 (office)
JoAnna@JoTheRealtor.com
www.JoTheRealtor.com

Let's Connect!

What's REALLY going on in the Manalapan New Jersey Real Estate Market!

Thu, 08 Jan 2009 01:09:42 -0800

I've got Big News! REALLYNews!

of single family homes in Manalapan New Jersey in 2008!

I know... you probably don't believe me.

Don't feel bad.

I don't blame you.

It's been tough for me, trying to challenge the doom and gloom that the media has been continuously feeding you guys for the past 2 years!

But I'm going to keep trying!

In 2008, homes closed in Manalapan Township.

Granted, that is down about 30% from the number of homes that closed in 2007, but it still represents a huge number of families that were able to make a move!

108 Townhomes and Condominiums SOLD in 2008, down 28% from 2007. Average price of a townhome or condo is down about 5% for the same time frame.

116 Adult Community Homes sold in 2008, representing a 10% increase... that means 11 more adult community homes were sold in 2008 than 2007! Average selling price for an adult community home is down about 10%.

Number of homes sold in Northern Manalapan are down about 36%, yet average home prices are only down about 1% for the year. 191 homes SOLD in Northern Manalapan!

Number of homes sold in Southern Manalapan are down to 41 homes sold from 48 the year before!

24 homes closed in the Yorktowne Development. That's 3 MORE homes than closed in 2007! 3 more families sold their home in 2008 than in 2007! (Why didn't I hear about that on the local news?) Average home prices are down 8% and the median home price is down 6% when compared to 2007.

Homes priced under $800,000 are down about 35% in number of homes sold, with average and median prices only down about 2% on the year

Only 4 less homes sold in 2008 than 2007 when comparing homes priced above $800,000! Average and median prices are down in this segment about 2%

Takeaway -

The bottom has not dropped out of the real estate market at least not in Manalapan Township.

Homes are selling and selling quickly when priced competitively.

Affordability restored to the marketplace and interest rates at record lows, creating a perfect storm of opportunity for today's homebuyers. There has never been a better time to buy a home!

Manalapan Township is made up of many different individual neighborhoods. Upon request, I will happily prepare statistics on any specific development in which you are interested.

___________________________________________________________________________________

Click to Search the Monmouth and Ocean County Multiple Listing Service.

Click to Sign Up For My Homefinder Service to receive automated emails when new homes come on the market that match YOUR criteria.

JoAnna Siminerio
Weichert Realtors - Marlboro / Manalapan
732-598-6823 cell 732-536-4400 x116 (office)
JoAnna@JoTheRealtor.com
www.JoTheRealtor.com

Let's Connect!

Manalapan Trash and Recycling for Christmas and New Years - 2011

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 15:01:42 -0800

Trash and Recycling for Christmas and New Years

There will be no garbage collection on Monday, December 26th or Monday, January 2nd because the County Reclamation Center is closed in observance of the Christmas and New Years holidays.

The Recycling Yard will be closed on Saturday, December 24th but it will be open on Saturday,

December 31st from 8 am to 2 pm.

Happy Holidays!

Gail Szeluga e-Pro®,ABR®, SFR

NJAR Circle of Excellence 2010 & 2011
Manalapan/Marlboro Office
732-580-7893 Cell
www.SoldByGail.com
Gail@SoldByGail.com

Manalapan, NJ - Schools and Education

Sat, 10 Dec 2011 17:02:49 -0800

You’ve seen some homes and like what you’ve seen! Manalapan, New Jersey sure appears to be a great place to live, but what about the school system?

Manalapan Township is proud to offer an elementary school district with a tradition of excellence! Personally, I have two daughters with whom I have experienced the Manalapan Township School System and I will say that the school district continues to exceed my expectations!

Two of our schools, Manalapan Englishtown Middle School and Pine Brook School, have received the coveted New Jersey Department of Education STAR School designation and a third school, Taylor Mills, was recognized for a statewide Best Practice Award.

Manalapan students have succeeded scholastically on the national level in the Odyssey of the Mind and Continental Math League competitions. Manalapan athletes have won numerous conference, county and state titles. Click for NJ School Report Cards on schools in the Manalapan Englishtown Regional School District.

Manalapan Township has one Early Learning Center for Pre-k and Kindergarten, five elementary schools for Grades 1 - 5, one pre-middle school for Grade 6 and a middle school for Grades 7 & 8. Manalapan High School is a part of the Freehold Regional High School District, offering Manalapan students numerous options for their high school education. (See my blog on High School Opportunities for the Freehold Regional High School District for more information on High School Education).

Which school will my children attend? Not too long ago Manalapan Township underwent a redistricting to best service the needs of our growing population. You can click here to find the district zoning map. Click here for a list of streets with the school they go to and whether they are AM or PM kindergarten session. Yes, Manalapan Township is only HALF DAY Kindergarten!

Where do you go to register? New homeowners should register children at the Transportation Department, located at 116 Milhurst Rd., Monday through Friday between 9:00 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. When transferring from another school, you will need the following:

Transfer card from school previously attended (if transfer is from another N.J. school system, health records must accompany the transfer card).
Proof of residency (closing statement ("HUD"), utility bill, etc.)

NOTE: Students who will be 13 by October 1 must register for MEMS. Students who will be 15 by October 1 must register for the Freehold Regional High School District. Kindergarten students must be 5 years old by October 1 of that year.

Give me a call or drop me an email if you would like a more personalized description of the Manalapan-Englishtown School System. As a 20 year Manalapan resident, I enjoy talking and teaching all there is to know about my town!

EARLY LEARNING (Pre-K & Kindergarten)

John I. Dawes Early Learning Center
Ms. Melissa Foy-Principal
38 Gordons Corner Road
Manalapan, NJ 07726
(732) 786-2830

ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS (Grades 1 - 5)

Clark Mills School
Mrs. Jayme Orlando - Principal
34 Gordons Corner Road
Manalapan, NJ 07726
(732)-786-2720

Milford Brook School
Ms. Kim Pickus-Principal
20 Globar Terrace
Manalapan, NJ 07726
(732)-786-2780

Lafayette Mills School
Mr. Gregory Duffy-Principal
66 Maxwell Road
Manalapan, NJ 07726
(732)786-2700

Taylor Mills School
Mrs. Kerry Marsala-Principal
77 Gordons Corner Road
Manalapan, NJ 07726
(732)786-2760

Wemrock Brook School
Ms. Jacqueline M. Martin-Principal
118 Millhurst Road
Manalapan, NJ 07726
(732)786-2600

PRE-MIDDLE SCHOOL (Grade 6)

Pine Brook School
Mr. John Spalthoff-Principal
155 Pease Road
Manalapan, NJ 07726
(732)786-2800

MIDDLE SCHOOL (Grades 7 & 8)

Manalapan-Englishtown Middle School (MEMS)
Mr. Robert Williams-Principal
155 Millhurst Road
Manalapan, NJ 07726
(732)786-2650

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JoAnna Siminerio
Weichert Realtors - Marlboro / Manalapan
732-598-6823 cell 732-536-4400 x116 (office)
JoAnna@JoTheRealtor.com
www.JoTheRealtor.com

Let's Connect!

Another Fine Home Closed by JoAnna and Gail!!!!

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 21:39:59 -0800

Links

Photo Gallery

Description

4 bedroom, 2.5 bath, Brick Front Colonial in much sought after Toscana at Howell, New Jersey!

Two story entrance and the formal Living Room welcome you to this former model home!

Updated kitchen with cherry cabinets and upgraded countertops. Breakfast room is truly stunning with walls of floor to ceiling windows!

Perfectly located off the kitchen is the spacious Family Room with gas fireplace.

Sumptuous Master Bedroom with lighted tray ceiling and two walk-in closets. Master Bathroom is upgraded with vaulted ceiling, double sinks, soaking tub and separate shower.

Finally, finished two car garage and yankee basement supports all your storage needs.

This incredible value is a Short Sale and subject to lender approval. All certifications and township approvals are the responsibility of the buyer.

Features

Bedrooms: 4Bathrooms: 2.5Parking Spaces: 2Year Built: 2003Subdivision: Toscana at HowellGarage Size: 2 carSchool District: HowellAgent Name: JoAnna Siminerio and Gail SzelugaBroker: Weichert, RealtorsMLS #: 21119839Model: Zachary

Location

3 Chad Lane Howell NJ 07731

Gail Szeluga e-Pro®,ABR®, SFR

NJAR Circle of Excellence 2010 & 2011
Manalapan/Marlboro Office
732-580-7893 Cell
www.SoldByGail.com
Gail@SoldByGail.com

College Scholarships available for young women

Wed, 09 Nov 2011 17:34:07 -0800

SCHOLARSHIP INFORMATION

The Freehold Branch of AAUW will award two $2000.00 scholarships, the Lew Williams Scholarship and the Leila Sulkes Scholarship for the academic year 2012-2013.

Scholarship Applicant Qualifications

• Women 25 years of age or older

• Resident of the following towns: Colts Neck, Englishtown, Farmingdale, Freehold Boro, Freehold Township, Howell, Manalapan, Marlboro, Morganville

• Enrolled in a bachelor's degree program having completed a minimum of 60 credits or enrolled in a graduate degree program having completed a minimum of six credits

• Must have maintained a minimum GPA of "B"

• Will be enrolled in the school year 2012-2013

Scholarship Application

Application requests will be accepted January - June 2012. Please send your application request to freeholdaauwscholarships@gmail.com or to AAUW Scholarship, PO Box 6151, Freehold, NJ 07728

Completed application, official transcript(s) (with raised seal) and letters of recommendation must be postmarked by July 31, 2012. Please return to the address above.

Gail Szeluga e-Pro®,ABR®, SFR

NJAR Circle of Excellence 2010 & 2011
Manalapan/Marlboro Office
732-580-7893 Cell
www.SoldByGail.com
Gail@SoldByGail.com

Clean off those bookshelves! Book donations needed

Wed, 09 Nov 2011 17:27:11 -0800

The American Association of University Women’s Freehold Branch is accepting book donations for its 2012 used-book sale. All books, with the exception of Reader’s digest condensed books and textbooks, can be dropped off between 10:00 am and noon on Tuesday mornings at the Freehold Savings Bank, 65 W. Main Street, Freehold Borough, or call 732-431-2498 for additional information.

American Association of University Women (AAUW) is a nationwide network of more than 100,000 members and donors, 1,000 branches, and 500 college/university institution partners.

This branch unites college women in the area for work on the educational, civic and social problems of the community; aids promising women students by providing opportunities for higher education and research; and cooperates in the programs of the AAUW.

The sale, which will take place June, 2012, is their major fundraiser and provides the means with which they are able to offer local scholarships and contribute to the National organization’s educational and Legal Advocacy funds.

Gail Szeluga e-Pro®,ABR®, SFR

NJAR Circle of Excellence 2010 & 2011
Manalapan/Marlboro Office
732-580-7893 Cell
www.SoldByGail.com
Gail@SoldByGail.com

Annual Manalapan Jersey Cares for Coats Drive - 2011

Fri, 04 Nov 2011 13:49:47 -0700

Make this a Warmer Winter for Neighbors in Need!!

The goal of the 16th Annual Jersey Cares Coat Drive is to collect and distribute 50,000 “gently used” winter coats to at-risk men, women, children and infants.

Over the past fifteen years, Jersey Cares has collected, sorted and distributed thousands of winter coats to New Jersey residents in need through this program.

Companies, churches, police stations, schools and other organizations collect coats throughout the drive.

Volunteers then sort the donated coats and bag them for pick-up. Agency recipients schedule their pick-up and distribute the coats to those in need.

If you have a coat to donate, bring it between November 1^st through December 1th to Manalapan Township Town Hall. The hours are Monday-Friday 9:00 am-5:00 pm.

Alternatively, I am happy to pick up any coats from Manalapan Residents if you can't get over there. Please call me at 732-580-7893 to arrange a date for pickup.

Gail Szeluga e-Pro®,ABR®, SFR

NJAR Circle of Excellence 2010 & 2011
Manalapan/Marlboro Office
732-580-7893 Cell
www.SoldByGail.com
Gail@SoldByGail.com

Manalapan Leaf Collection

Sun, 30 Oct 2011 17:05:27 -0700

MANALAPAN LEAF RECYCLING

Manalapan will continue with the expanded leaf collection program this fall. Leaves will be collected on November 7, 14, 21, 28, December 5, 12, 19, 27, 2011.

All leaves must be placed in biodegradable compost bags.

These bags can be purchased at the Public Works Department on Mondays – Fridays from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

The bags are sold in bundles of 5 for a cost of $2.00.

You can also purchase these bags from local retailers.

NO leaves will be collected that are not in these biodegradable bags.

Bagged leaves containing twigs, grass, brush, weeds or other debris will not be collected.

Please place bagged leaves at the curb, not in the street, on the first day of each scheduled collection to insure you will not miss any of the collections.

Leaves in biodegradable bags can be brought to the Public Works yard throughout the year.

Gail Szeluga e-Pro®,ABR®, SFR

NJAR Circle of Excellence 2010 & 2011
Manalapan/Marlboro Office
732-580-7893 Cell
www.SoldByGail.com
Gail@SoldByGail.com