A growing number of homeowners, architects and builders are trying to reuse or recycle construction materials during remodel projects, for reasons both environmental and aesthetic.
For example, architect Anthony Garrett, of Bilow Garrett Group in Ridgefield Park, NJ, recently renovated a building in Hoboken. He reclaimed the wooden floor joists and trucked them to Montville Twp, where they were reused as flooring and exposed beams in a planned mixed-use development. He explained, "“I can’t think of anything more sustainable than that; there’s an embedded energy in that material that we salvage, and we don’t have to cut any more trees down.”
Construction waste can total 25-50% of the stuff in landfills, and this waste of resources has spawned interest in salvaging building materials. Anne Nicklin, executive director of the Building Materials Reuse Association, an Oregon-based trade group, said, "Reused materials are not just better for the environment; they also can be higher quality. You can’t buy old-growth timber at home improvement stores, but you can find it in a building that’s coming down.”
The trend can be seen in faster permits issued by municipalities for deconstruction, rather than demolition, in training for federal workers on salvaging building materials, and the increase in non-profit outlets creating a marketplace. Habitat for Humanity's ReStores are nationwide, and Build It Green in Queens are two examples. They both accept materials and give discounts to buyers.
Green Demolitions, in CT, targets affluent homeowners who just want to remodel. By donating materials to his company, homeowners can save disposal costs, plus get a tax deduction, because Green Demolitions’ profits go to support addiction treatment programs. The company sold 600 kitchens last year in its 3 stores. Most were donated by homeowners, but 1/6 by kitchen remodeling contractors. They estimate their efforts kept 2 million pounds of debris out of the landfills.
As reported by RISMedia.com, "Reusing or recycling materials can help builders get the environmental stamp of approval known as LEED, for Leadership in Energy and Environmental design. The LEED certification is awarded by the nonprofit U.S. Green Building Council, which gives builders credit for keeping materials out of landfills. Because reusing materials requires careful deconstruction of a room or building, it is usually more time-consuming and can be more expensive than simple demolition. But it also doesn’t create the clouds of dust—potentially laden with asbestos or lead paint—created by demolition."
A decade ago, “the marketplace was unsophisticated in its ability to effectively divert a large amount of materials from the landfill,” said Daniel Topping, an architect with NK Architects in Morristown, N.J. But it’s a lot easier these days to find a new home for old materials. “It’s just a little more legwork,” Topping said.
(read more at RISMedia.com)
Joe Giancarli, SA
Real Estate Advisor
609-658-2612
jgiancarli@remax.net
http://www.joegiancarli.com/
http://www.njhomesource.com/
http://www.njhomesource.blogspot.com/
www.activerain.com/blogs/josephgiancarli
Find homes for sale using my new mobile app. Just text JOEG to 87778 and you will be sent download instructions. Once installed on your device, you will be able to do searches and see complete listing details including photos and prices. If your device is GPS enabled you will also see the listings on a map. (Data rates may apply.)
Showing posts with label New home resources. Show all posts
Showing posts with label New home resources. Show all posts
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Thursday, March 10, 2011
New NAHB Study on New Homes Predicts Greening & Casual Trends
A recently-released study by the National Assn of Home Builders (NAHB) shows that the recent housing downturn has changed what buyers want in their next home. Presented at the annual NAHB International Builders' Show, the results strongly indicate the indelible mark left by the recession on home buying trends.
Here are some key findings:
- Builders who were surveyed expect homes to average 2,152 square feet in 2015, 10% smaller than the average size of single-family homes started in the first three quarters of 2010.
- To save on square footage, the living room is high on the endangered list—52% of builders expect it to be merged with other spaces in the home by 2015 and 30% said it will vanish entirely.
- 54% of builders said the family room is likely to increase, making it the only area on the new home to get bigger.
- The relative size of the entry foyer and dining room are likely to be diminished by 2015.
- The average new home of 2015 is likely to feature a great room comprised of the kitchen, foyer and living room; a walk-in closet in the master bedroom; a laundry room; ceiling fans; a master bedroom on the first floor in homes with two stories; and a two-car garage.
- 68% of builders said that homes in 2015 will include more green features and technology, including low-E windows; engineered wood beams, joists or tresses; water-efficient features such as dual-flush toilets or low-flow faucets; and an Energy Star rating for the whole house.
Joe Giancarli, SA
Real Estate Advisor
609-658-2612
jgiancarli@remax.net
http://www.joegiancarli.com/
http://www.njhomesource.com/
http://www.njhomesource.blogspot.com/
www.activerain.com/blogs/josephgiancarli
Find homes for sale using my new mobile app. Just text JOEG to 87778 and you will be sent download instructions. Once installed on your device, you will be able to do searches and see complete listing details including photos and prices. If your device is GPS enabled you will also see the listings on a map. (Data rates may apply.)
Saturday, March 5, 2011
The Slow Home Movement in New Jersey New Home Construction
The "Slow Home Movement," pioneered by John Brown, architect, realtor, and professor in Calgary, Alberta, is gaining momentum with builders. The philosophy of home design that emphasizes livability and sustainability. It’s about building a home that works for the occupants.
Brown explains, "“You can think of the typical cookie-cutter house as being like fast food—often supersized and designed to satisfy our craving for beauty. It’s a house that’s designed to seduce us into buying by feeding our fantasies of a more glamorous life, not one that’s necessarily easy to live in or easy on the environment.
"A slow home, on the other hand, is reasonably sized and carefully designed to support its occupants. It might have an entry where family members can easily take off their boots, stash their keys and store their backpacks, for example. It might have a living space that encourages people to talk or read, not just watch television or surf the Internet. It’s energy efficient, filled with natural light and designed for easy flow among rooms and access to the outside. It doesn’t have to be fancy. It doesn’t have to be expensive. It just has to be easy to live in."
Visit his Slow Home Studio or read his book, What’s Wrong With This House? Fast Houses, Slow Homes and How to Tell the Difference, for more insight into his ideas.
Brown isn't the only advocate for sensible building. Architect Hallie Bowie of Akron, Ohio, uses a similar philosophy. She sees the movement as a marriage between green building and the “not-so-big-house” idea, a concept championed by architect Sarah Susanka. At its heart, a slow home is really about good design, she said. “It seems to me the slow home has a real values kind of focus. Its design grows from the occupants’ emphasis on the quality of time they spend with family and friends, not on the quantity of their possessions or their desire to impress people." A family who wants less emphasis on television, for example, might create a viewing area that’s separate from the great room, A family who wants to interact more with neighbors might have a front porch.
Brown feels slow homes eliminate the little annoyances that tend to add stress to our lives, annoyances such as entries without closets, bathrooms that open directly to living areas, or laundry rooms so close to the back door that people are constantly tripping over laundry baskets when they enter.
Author Shannon Honeybloom envisions a slow home as one which creates an environment that supports your goals for how you want to live or raise your family. She explains, “I think the reality of life these days it that life is really fast-paced." She advocates creating a way of life and a home that put less emphasis on instant information and entertainment and more on encouraging interaction, imagination and learning. Home elements that could achieve this might be a backyard garden, a computer room separate from the children's play room, or putting the TV in a cupboard so the doors can be closed.
Ideally, Brown said, a slow home would be designed from the start by an architect who takes into consideration the occupants’ interests, needs and habits. But he adds that you can "slow" an existing home with gradual changes made by an understanding of what inside your home is causing stress. While older homes, designed before the 1950s, were "simple" and created to "work for the occupants." But in the last 60 years, homes became "products" designed for quick resale instead of livability.
Basically, the slow home movement is a way of helping consumers get homes to better serve their needs. Call or email me to find builders here in Mercer County NJ and surrounding areas who will work with and listen to you.
(read more at RISMedia.com)
Joe Giancarli, SA
Real Estate Advisor
609-658-2612
jgiancarli@remax.net
http://www.joegiancarli.com/
http://www.njhomesource.com/
http://www.njhomesource.blogspot.com/
www.activerain.com/blogs/josephgiancarli
Find homes for sale using my new mobile app. Just text JOEG to 87778 and you will be sent download instructions. Once installed on your device, you will be able to do searches and see complete listing details including photos and prices. If your device is GPS enabled you will also see the listings on a map. (Data rates may apply.)
Brown explains, "“You can think of the typical cookie-cutter house as being like fast food—often supersized and designed to satisfy our craving for beauty. It’s a house that’s designed to seduce us into buying by feeding our fantasies of a more glamorous life, not one that’s necessarily easy to live in or easy on the environment.
"A slow home, on the other hand, is reasonably sized and carefully designed to support its occupants. It might have an entry where family members can easily take off their boots, stash their keys and store their backpacks, for example. It might have a living space that encourages people to talk or read, not just watch television or surf the Internet. It’s energy efficient, filled with natural light and designed for easy flow among rooms and access to the outside. It doesn’t have to be fancy. It doesn’t have to be expensive. It just has to be easy to live in."
Visit his Slow Home Studio or read his book, What’s Wrong With This House? Fast Houses, Slow Homes and How to Tell the Difference, for more insight into his ideas.
Brown isn't the only advocate for sensible building. Architect Hallie Bowie of Akron, Ohio, uses a similar philosophy. She sees the movement as a marriage between green building and the “not-so-big-house” idea, a concept championed by architect Sarah Susanka. At its heart, a slow home is really about good design, she said. “It seems to me the slow home has a real values kind of focus. Its design grows from the occupants’ emphasis on the quality of time they spend with family and friends, not on the quantity of their possessions or their desire to impress people." A family who wants less emphasis on television, for example, might create a viewing area that’s separate from the great room, A family who wants to interact more with neighbors might have a front porch.
Brown feels slow homes eliminate the little annoyances that tend to add stress to our lives, annoyances such as entries without closets, bathrooms that open directly to living areas, or laundry rooms so close to the back door that people are constantly tripping over laundry baskets when they enter.
Author Shannon Honeybloom envisions a slow home as one which creates an environment that supports your goals for how you want to live or raise your family. She explains, “I think the reality of life these days it that life is really fast-paced." She advocates creating a way of life and a home that put less emphasis on instant information and entertainment and more on encouraging interaction, imagination and learning. Home elements that could achieve this might be a backyard garden, a computer room separate from the children's play room, or putting the TV in a cupboard so the doors can be closed.
Ideally, Brown said, a slow home would be designed from the start by an architect who takes into consideration the occupants’ interests, needs and habits. But he adds that you can "slow" an existing home with gradual changes made by an understanding of what inside your home is causing stress. While older homes, designed before the 1950s, were "simple" and created to "work for the occupants." But in the last 60 years, homes became "products" designed for quick resale instead of livability.
Basically, the slow home movement is a way of helping consumers get homes to better serve their needs. Call or email me to find builders here in Mercer County NJ and surrounding areas who will work with and listen to you.
(read more at RISMedia.com)
Joe Giancarli, SA
Real Estate Advisor
609-658-2612
jgiancarli@remax.net
http://www.joegiancarli.com/
http://www.njhomesource.com/
http://www.njhomesource.blogspot.com/
www.activerain.com/blogs/josephgiancarli
Find homes for sale using my new mobile app. Just text JOEG to 87778 and you will be sent download instructions. Once installed on your device, you will be able to do searches and see complete listing details including photos and prices. If your device is GPS enabled you will also see the listings on a map. (Data rates may apply.)
Thursday, February 24, 2011
New Home Sales Down in January
It's no surprise to those of us who live in New Jersey that new home sales dipped 12.6% in January. The weather was all but inviting for touring new homes under construction, or building them either.
According to estimates released by the U.S. Census Bureau and the Department of Housing and Urban Development, sales of new single-family houses in January 2011 were at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 284,000.
This is 12.6% (±11.2%) below the revised December rate of 325,000 and 18.6% (±15.4%) below the January 2010 estimate of 349,000.
The median sales price of new houses sold in January 2011 was $230,600; the average sales price was $260,300. The seasonally adjusted estimate of new houses for sale at the end of January was 188,000.
This represents a supply of 7.9 months at the current sales rate.
Now that the weather is warming up, call or email me when you are ready to start looking at all the great homes under construction in Mercer County and surrounding areas. Take a look at one in Dogwood Meadows of Hamilton, and two in the Ridings of Robbinsville on my new home web site.
Joe Giancarli, SA
Real Estate Advisor
609-658-2612
jgiancarli@remax.net
http://www.joegiancarli.com/
http://www.njhomesource.com/
http://www.njhomesource.blogspot.com/
www.activerain.com/blogs/josephgiancarli
Find homes for sale using my new mobile app. Just text JOEG to 87778 and you will be sent download instructions. Once installed on your device, you will be able to do searches and see complete listing details including photos and prices. If your device is GPS enabled you will also see the listings on a map. (Data rates may apply.)
According to estimates released by the U.S. Census Bureau and the Department of Housing and Urban Development, sales of new single-family houses in January 2011 were at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 284,000.
This is 12.6% (±11.2%) below the revised December rate of 325,000 and 18.6% (±15.4%) below the January 2010 estimate of 349,000.
The median sales price of new houses sold in January 2011 was $230,600; the average sales price was $260,300. The seasonally adjusted estimate of new houses for sale at the end of January was 188,000.
This represents a supply of 7.9 months at the current sales rate.
Now that the weather is warming up, call or email me when you are ready to start looking at all the great homes under construction in Mercer County and surrounding areas. Take a look at one in Dogwood Meadows of Hamilton, and two in the Ridings of Robbinsville on my new home web site.
Joe Giancarli, SA
Real Estate Advisor
609-658-2612
jgiancarli@remax.net
http://www.joegiancarli.com/
http://www.njhomesource.com/
http://www.njhomesource.blogspot.com/
www.activerain.com/blogs/josephgiancarli
Find homes for sale using my new mobile app. Just text JOEG to 87778 and you will be sent download instructions. Once installed on your device, you will be able to do searches and see complete listing details including photos and prices. If your device is GPS enabled you will also see the listings on a map. (Data rates may apply.)
Friday, February 18, 2011
January New Housing Starts
New residential construction statistics for January 2011 dipped slightly.
Privately-owned housing units authorized by building permits in January were at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 562,000. This is 10.7% (±1.2%) below the January 2010 estimate of 629,000.
Privately-owned housing starts in January were at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 596,000. This is 2.6% (±9.8%) below the January 2010 rate of 612,000.
Privately-owned housing completions in January were at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 512,000. This is 22.7% (±8.3%) below the January 2010 rate of 662,000.
Joe Giancarli, SA
Real Estate Advisor
609-658-2612
jgiancarli@remax.net
http://www.joegiancarli.com/
http://www.njhomesource.com/
http://www.njhomesource.blogspot.com/
www.activerain.com/blogs/josephgiancarli
(resource: RealEstateChannel.com)
Find homes for sale using my new mobile app. Just text JOEG to 87778 and you will be sent download instructions. Once installed on your device, you will be able to do searches and see complete listing details including photos and prices. If your device is GPS enabled you will also see the listings on a map. (Data rates may apply.)
Privately-owned housing units authorized by building permits in January were at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 562,000. This is 10.7% (±1.2%) below the January 2010 estimate of 629,000.
Privately-owned housing starts in January were at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 596,000. This is 2.6% (±9.8%) below the January 2010 rate of 612,000.
Privately-owned housing completions in January were at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 512,000. This is 22.7% (±8.3%) below the January 2010 rate of 662,000.
Joe Giancarli, SA
Real Estate Advisor
609-658-2612
jgiancarli@remax.net
http://www.joegiancarli.com/
http://www.njhomesource.com/
http://www.njhomesource.blogspot.com/
www.activerain.com/blogs/josephgiancarli
(resource: RealEstateChannel.com)
Find homes for sale using my new mobile app. Just text JOEG to 87778 and you will be sent download instructions. Once installed on your device, you will be able to do searches and see complete listing details including photos and prices. If your device is GPS enabled you will also see the listings on a map. (Data rates may apply.)
Thursday, February 3, 2011
If You Want to Remodel your New Jersey Home, try Deconstruction instead of Demoliton
Deconstruction—the careful removal of salvageable hardwood flooring, light fixtures, cabinetry, doors and nearly everything that makes a house a house—is gaining momentum. As a result, more than three-fourths of the house can be re-used and recycled, instead of ending up in the dump. More than 30% of waste that goes into landfills consists of building and construction materials, much that can still be used.
Besides being easier on the Earth, deconstruction—if you donate your home’s salvageable materials to a nonprofit like Habitat for Humanity ReStore—can be lighter on the pocketbook than demolition. However, initial costs don’t reflect that. The average one-week demolition is $10,000 to $20,000. Deconstruction, which can take a month or two, is typically $20,000 to $35,000. Deconstruction takes someone who isn’t afraid of waiting until taxes are filed to get the money back. To recoup costs, you have to hire an appraiser who specializes in deconstruction.
“Deconstruction means taking it apart by hand instead of by machine,” says Lance Houston, owner of Houston Excavating and Demolition in Liberty, Mo. “Habitat ReStore takes out what can be salvaged—sinks, cabinets, so forth. We’ll de-nail it, cut off bad ends, band it and wrap it to go to Habitat ReStore. All metals, like copper piping, can be salvaged at the scrap yard.”
On average, more than 75% of a home can be reused and recycled. Items that typically can’t be repurposed, explained Mark Bullock, deconstruction manager for Habitat ReStore in Kansas City, Mo, are insulation, PVC pipes, roofing, old carpet, brittle sheathing and fragile tile.
If you would like to consider this environmentally-friendly way to remodel your New Jersey home, contact me for names of appraisers who understand the process and your financial commitments.
Joe Giancarli, SA
Real Estate Advisor
609-658-2612
jgiancarli@remax.net
http://www.joegiancarli.com/
http://www.njhomesource.com/
http://www.njhomesource.blogspot.com/
www.activerain.com/blogs/josephgiancarli
Find homes for sale using my new mobile app. Just text JOEG to 87778 and you will be sent download instructions. Once installed on your device, you will be able to do searches and see complete listing details including photos and prices. If your device is GPS enabled you will also see the listings on a map. (Data rates may apply.)
Besides being easier on the Earth, deconstruction—if you donate your home’s salvageable materials to a nonprofit like Habitat for Humanity ReStore—can be lighter on the pocketbook than demolition. However, initial costs don’t reflect that. The average one-week demolition is $10,000 to $20,000. Deconstruction, which can take a month or two, is typically $20,000 to $35,000. Deconstruction takes someone who isn’t afraid of waiting until taxes are filed to get the money back. To recoup costs, you have to hire an appraiser who specializes in deconstruction.
“Deconstruction means taking it apart by hand instead of by machine,” says Lance Houston, owner of Houston Excavating and Demolition in Liberty, Mo. “Habitat ReStore takes out what can be salvaged—sinks, cabinets, so forth. We’ll de-nail it, cut off bad ends, band it and wrap it to go to Habitat ReStore. All metals, like copper piping, can be salvaged at the scrap yard.”
On average, more than 75% of a home can be reused and recycled. Items that typically can’t be repurposed, explained Mark Bullock, deconstruction manager for Habitat ReStore in Kansas City, Mo, are insulation, PVC pipes, roofing, old carpet, brittle sheathing and fragile tile.
If you would like to consider this environmentally-friendly way to remodel your New Jersey home, contact me for names of appraisers who understand the process and your financial commitments.
Joe Giancarli, SA
Real Estate Advisor
609-658-2612
jgiancarli@remax.net
http://www.joegiancarli.com/
http://www.njhomesource.com/
http://www.njhomesource.blogspot.com/
www.activerain.com/blogs/josephgiancarli
Find homes for sale using my new mobile app. Just text JOEG to 87778 and you will be sent download instructions. Once installed on your device, you will be able to do searches and see complete listing details including photos and prices. If your device is GPS enabled you will also see the listings on a map. (Data rates may apply.)
Thursday, January 27, 2011
New Resource for the 55+ Housing Market Released
The MetLife Mature Market Institute (MMI), in partnership with NAHB (National Association of Home Builders), has produced the Builder Survey Chart Book, dated Sept, 2009: 55+ Housing-Builders, Buyers, and Beyond.
Established in 1997, the Mature Market Institute (MMI) is MetLife’s research organization and a recognized thought leader on the multi-dimensional and multi-generational issues of aging and longevity. MMI’s groundbreaking research, gerontology expertise, national partnerships, and educational materials work to expand the knowledge and choices for those in, approaching, or caring for those in the mature market.
The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) is a Washington, D.C.-based trade association representing more than 200,000 members involved in home building, remodeling, multi-family construction, property management, subcontracting, design, housing finance, building product manufacturing, and other aspects of residential and light commercial construction. Known as "the voice of the housing industry," NAHB is affiliated with more than 800 state and local home builders associations around the country. NAHB’s builder members will construct about 80% of the new housing units projected for 2009.
Here are some highlights from the report. Topics covered are:
*Location
Location of 55+ Communities
55+ Customer Relocating from
Motivation in Relocation
*Features, Amenities, Services
Includes these topics for 2008 and plans for 2009
Studied are both 55+ Communities and Single-family homes
*Mortgage Financing Options
*Technology in Homes
*Green Amenities
While the timespan seems outdated, there are more Baby Boomers than ever and these trends will certainly be a factor for builders in 2011.
If you are interested in the 55+ housing options in Mercer County and surrounding areas, call or contact me to discuss your options.
Joe Giancarli, SA
Real Estate Advisor
609-658-2612
jgiancarli@remax.net
http://www.joegiancarli.com/
http://www.njhomesource.com/
http://www.njhomesource.blogspot.com/
www.activerain.com/blogs/josephgiancarli
Established in 1997, the Mature Market Institute (MMI) is MetLife’s research organization and a recognized thought leader on the multi-dimensional and multi-generational issues of aging and longevity. MMI’s groundbreaking research, gerontology expertise, national partnerships, and educational materials work to expand the knowledge and choices for those in, approaching, or caring for those in the mature market.
The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) is a Washington, D.C.-based trade association representing more than 200,000 members involved in home building, remodeling, multi-family construction, property management, subcontracting, design, housing finance, building product manufacturing, and other aspects of residential and light commercial construction. Known as "the voice of the housing industry," NAHB is affiliated with more than 800 state and local home builders associations around the country. NAHB’s builder members will construct about 80% of the new housing units projected for 2009.
Here are some highlights from the report. Topics covered are:
*Location
Location of 55+ Communities
55+ Customer Relocating from
Motivation in Relocation
*Features, Amenities, Services
Includes these topics for 2008 and plans for 2009
Studied are both 55+ Communities and Single-family homes
*Mortgage Financing Options
*Technology in Homes
*Green Amenities
While the timespan seems outdated, there are more Baby Boomers than ever and these trends will certainly be a factor for builders in 2011.
If you are interested in the 55+ housing options in Mercer County and surrounding areas, call or contact me to discuss your options.
Joe Giancarli, SA
Real Estate Advisor
609-658-2612
jgiancarli@remax.net
http://www.joegiancarli.com/
http://www.njhomesource.com/
http://www.njhomesource.blogspot.com/
www.activerain.com/blogs/josephgiancarli
Thursday, January 20, 2011
December a Slow Month for New Home Construction
The U.S. Census Bureau and the Department of Housing and Urban Development have announced residential construction statistics for December 2010.
Privately-owned housing units authorized by building permits in December were at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 635,000. This is 16.7% (±2.1%) above the revised November rate of 544,000, but is 6.8%(±2.8%) below the December 2009 estimate of 681,000.
Privately-owned housing starts in December were at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 529,000. This is 4.3% (±14.1%) below the revised November estimate of 553,000 and is 8.2% (±14.4%) below the December 2009 rate of 576,000.
Privately-owned housing completions in December were at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 585,000. This is 4.1% (±17.7%) above the revised November estimate of 562,000, but is 22.2% (±11.3%) below the December 2009 rate of 752,000.
For information on single-family and multi-family numbers, read the RealEstateChannel.com article.
Call or email me to talk about new homes in Mercer County and our surrounding areas.
Joe Giancarli, SA
Real Estate Advisor
609-658-2612
jgiancarli@remax.net
http://www.joegiancarli.com/
http://www.njhomesource.com/
Privately-owned housing units authorized by building permits in December were at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 635,000. This is 16.7% (±2.1%) above the revised November rate of 544,000, but is 6.8%(±2.8%) below the December 2009 estimate of 681,000.
Privately-owned housing starts in December were at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 529,000. This is 4.3% (±14.1%) below the revised November estimate of 553,000 and is 8.2% (±14.4%) below the December 2009 rate of 576,000.
Privately-owned housing completions in December were at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 585,000. This is 4.1% (±17.7%) above the revised November estimate of 562,000, but is 22.2% (±11.3%) below the December 2009 rate of 752,000.
For information on single-family and multi-family numbers, read the RealEstateChannel.com article.
Call or email me to talk about new homes in Mercer County and our surrounding areas.
Joe Giancarli, SA
Real Estate Advisor
609-658-2612
jgiancarli@remax.net
http://www.joegiancarli.com/
http://www.njhomesource.com/
Friday, December 17, 2010
Habitat for Humanity Builds 400,000th Home
Habitat for Humanity is one of the nation's largest builders. Founded in 1976, it has served more than 2 million people worldwide.
"In 2005 we celebrated our 200,000th house. Now, five years later, we have more than doubled that number thanks to the generous support of our volunteers and sponsors,” says CEO Jonathan Reckford. Habitat and its homeowners, volunteers and partners build so much more than houses for these families, however. They build community, friendships, health, tolerance, construction skills, and financial literacy.
A copy of Habitat for Humanity International's fiscal year 2010 annual report, "What We Build," is now available on the group's Web site. The report gives a snapshot of Habitat's work around the world.
The organization seeks to eliminate poverty housing and homelessness from the world and to make decent shelter a matter of conscience and action. To accomplish these goals, they invite people of all backgrounds, races and religions to build houses together in partnership with families in need.
Learn more about the work and volunteer or fundraising opportunities for this very meaningful and needed non-profit at the Habitat for Humanity web site.
Joe Giancarli, SA
Real Estate Advisor
609-658-2612
jgiancarli@remax.net
http://www.joegiancarli.com/
http://www.njhomesource.com/
http://www.njhomesource.blogspot.com/
www.activerain.com/blogs/josephgiancarli
Thursday, December 9, 2010
New Consumer Web Site Launched to Keep Mortgage Interest Deduction
The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) has launched a newly-designed consumer-oriented website, http://www.savemymortgageinterestdeduction.com/, to provide up-to-date information on the threat to the mortgage interest deduction.
The website separates the myths about the mortgage interest deduction from reality, and shows why this cornerstone of American housing policy is essential for millions of middle-class homeowners and families who aspire to own their own home.
The site contains fact sheets, FAQs, statistics, and other information to allow consumers to stay informed as debate on the mortgage interest deduction moves forward. Also, he website tells visitors how to make their opinions are heard by connecting through NAHB’s Facebook and Twitter mortgage interest deduction communities and Eye on Housing (http://eyeonhousing.wordpress.com/) blog.
Joe Giancarli, SA
Real Estate Advisor
jgiancarli@remax.net
609-658-2612
http://www.joegiancarli.com/
http://www.njhomesource.com/
The website separates the myths about the mortgage interest deduction from reality, and shows why this cornerstone of American housing policy is essential for millions of middle-class homeowners and families who aspire to own their own home.
The site contains fact sheets, FAQs, statistics, and other information to allow consumers to stay informed as debate on the mortgage interest deduction moves forward. Also, he website tells visitors how to make their opinions are heard by connecting through NAHB’s Facebook and Twitter mortgage interest deduction communities and Eye on Housing (http://eyeonhousing.wordpress.com/) blog.
Joe Giancarli, SA
Real Estate Advisor
jgiancarli@remax.net
609-658-2612
http://www.joegiancarli.com/
http://www.njhomesource.com/
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Housing Choices for N J Seniors - Remodeling Specialists
There's a new home building specialty now available to builders, the Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS). Those receiving this education are trained to help homeowners adapt their homes for easier accessibility and improved functionality. Aging in place has been a popular theory for several years, but the reality has not caught up with the demand. Remodelers trained in this type of home design will bring positive change to the options available for New Jersey seniors, as they have learned about aging-in-place home design as well as partnering with other professionals to create a more comfortable home.
Actually, Oct 11-15 has been Aging-in-Place week, organized by NAHB (National Assn of Home Builders). According to AARP, most seniors prefer to stay in their home rather than move due to health and independence concerns, and the CAPS courses were developed in partnership with AARP. There are now more than 3,500 certified CAPS nationwide to choose from when considering home modifications. Remodelers, designers, occupational therapists, and other professions working with seniors and people with disabilities have become CAPS certified to assist with aging-in-place plans.
Aging-in-place solutions are tailored for each individual, but home remodels frequently include installing grab bars to minimize falling, adding comfort-height toilets, building no-step showers, and widening doorways to allow for mobility-assistance equipment such as wheelchairs. Universal design features can be easily incorporated into aging-in-place changes. Creating no-step access from a patio to a home’s interior, constructing raised-bed planters for easier gardening, changing the height of door knobs and electrical outlets, all can combine fashion with accessibility.
Visit the NAHB page for Aging in Place, for more information, and contact me to help you find a local Mercer County builder who has received the CAPS certification, if you need this type of home modification.
Joe Giancarli, SA
Real Estate Advisor
609-658-2612
jgiancarli@remax.net
http://www.joegiancarli.com/
http://www.njhomesource.com/
http://njhomesource.blogspot.com/
www.activerain.com/blogs/josephgiancarli
Actually, Oct 11-15 has been Aging-in-Place week, organized by NAHB (National Assn of Home Builders). According to AARP, most seniors prefer to stay in their home rather than move due to health and independence concerns, and the CAPS courses were developed in partnership with AARP. There are now more than 3,500 certified CAPS nationwide to choose from when considering home modifications. Remodelers, designers, occupational therapists, and other professions working with seniors and people with disabilities have become CAPS certified to assist with aging-in-place plans.
Aging-in-place solutions are tailored for each individual, but home remodels frequently include installing grab bars to minimize falling, adding comfort-height toilets, building no-step showers, and widening doorways to allow for mobility-assistance equipment such as wheelchairs. Universal design features can be easily incorporated into aging-in-place changes. Creating no-step access from a patio to a home’s interior, constructing raised-bed planters for easier gardening, changing the height of door knobs and electrical outlets, all can combine fashion with accessibility.
Visit the NAHB page for Aging in Place, for more information, and contact me to help you find a local Mercer County builder who has received the CAPS certification, if you need this type of home modification.
Joe Giancarli, SA
Real Estate Advisor
609-658-2612
jgiancarli@remax.net
http://www.joegiancarli.com/
http://www.njhomesource.com/
http://njhomesource.blogspot.com/
www.activerain.com/blogs/josephgiancarli
Friday, October 8, 2010
Joe Giancarli Now Offers Mobile MLS Search
You can now find homes for sale using my new mobile app. Just text JOEG to 87778 and you will be sent download instructions.
Once installed on your device, you will be able to do searches and see complete listing details including photos and prices.
If your device is GPS enabled you will also see the listings on a map.
(data rates may apply)
Joe Giancarli, SA
Real Estate Advisor
609-658-2612
jgiancarli@remax.net
http://www.joegiancarli.com/
Once installed on your device, you will be able to do searches and see complete listing details including photos and prices.
If your device is GPS enabled you will also see the listings on a map.
(data rates may apply)
Joe Giancarli, SA
Real Estate Advisor
609-658-2612
jgiancarli@remax.net
http://www.joegiancarli.com/
Thursday, September 2, 2010
If You Want to Purchase a Newly-built Home in New Jersey, Here are Some Ideas
Newly-built homes, often in recently developed communities, are much more affordable than in years past. New homebuilders are using desirable, open floor plans in smaller sizes, and helping buyers purchase new homes, with incentives and financing options. Use these important tips in a new home transaction to ensure that your hopes become reality.
1. Choose a Realtor Who Has New Home Sales Experience
Hire a buyer’s agent to represent you, act as your fiduciary, and disclose the positives as well as the negatives about the transaction. Builder’s agents don’t discuss drawbacks. They want to move their inventory. If your contract contains a contingency to sell your existing home before buying, hire your own seller’s agent to list your home.
I have experience and local knowledge of all our builders, in Mercer County and surrounding areas. This expertise is free to you, the buyer.
2. Carefully Evaluate the Builder’s Lender before Committing
Builders often prefer their own lender because the builder will be kept fully informed of your personal progress; it’s one-stop shopping for a builder. Builders will offer huge incentives to get you into your new home; sometimes up to 15% of the value of the home. However, they will often put one big stipulation on those incentives – that you use their lender. There are many problems that may crop up when you pigeon-hole yourself to one lender – higher rates and higher closing costs are the two biggest.
Ask to see a copy of your credit report and FICO cores. You can also order your own free credit report before shopping for a new home.
Insist that your lender guarantee its Good Faith Estimate. If the lender balks or makes excuses, go elsewhere. Reputable lenders will honor that request, even though it’s not required by law. I can recommend several qualified, reputable local lenders familiar with new construction in New Jersey.
3. Check out the Builder’s Reputation
If a buyer has a bad experience with a builder, word spreads rapidly. However, accurately and fairly assessing a builder’s history is the appropriate path. Check public records for lawsuits or complaints and evaluate their resolutions but, again, if you hire a local Realtor familiar with the builders (me), he or she can be a goldmine of information.
Talk to the neighbors and scrutinize the construction quality of surrounding homes. Is the builder consistently building same-sized or larger than existing properties, or are homes shrinking in size, which could reduce neighborhood value?
Learn if the builder limits investor purchases. This ensures that the neighborhood doesn’t turn into a “rental” neighborhood, which may appear less well-maintained and reduce property value.
4. Hire a Home Inspector
Many people who buy new construction homes don’t bother to get a home inspection. Most new homes come with a one year “bumper to bumper” warranty that includes everything, and many home buyers feel that they can find out if there are any construction flaws during those 12 months. The problem is that many problems won’t surface until well after the 12-month warranty has expired. An inspection provides education about the property, and offers the validation of a trained, independent third party assessment of the structure and systems.
If the inspector calls for further inspection by another professional contractor, find out if the inspector is telling you there could be a serious issue or if the inspector isn’t licensed to address that issue.
5. Obtain Legal Advice before Buying a Brand New Home
All of our New Jersey purchase contracts go through "Attorney Review." Make sure you understand what you are signing and what contingencies protect you, the buyer. Ask questions about removal of contingencies and your cancellation rights. A knowledgeable local Realtor - me - can protect you and explain the contract.
Find out if the materials used by the builder contain chemicals that are hazardous to your health. If your contract contains a warning about health issues, it’s probably because it’s a valid concern and other buyers have gone to court over it.
Your best course of action is to be represented by a local Realtor who knows the builders, their product, their reputation, and what is available in the area where you want to live. I have that experience. Call or email me so you can start looking and move into your new home in New Jersey before the cold weather.
Joe Giancarli, SA
Real Estate Advisor
609-658-2612
jgiancarli@remax.net
http://www.joegiancarli.com/
http://www.njhomesource.com/
http://www.njhomesource.net/
www.activerain.com/blogs/josephgiancarli
(read more at RISMedia)
1. Choose a Realtor Who Has New Home Sales Experience
Hire a buyer’s agent to represent you, act as your fiduciary, and disclose the positives as well as the negatives about the transaction. Builder’s agents don’t discuss drawbacks. They want to move their inventory. If your contract contains a contingency to sell your existing home before buying, hire your own seller’s agent to list your home.
I have experience and local knowledge of all our builders, in Mercer County and surrounding areas. This expertise is free to you, the buyer.
2. Carefully Evaluate the Builder’s Lender before Committing
Builders often prefer their own lender because the builder will be kept fully informed of your personal progress; it’s one-stop shopping for a builder. Builders will offer huge incentives to get you into your new home; sometimes up to 15% of the value of the home. However, they will often put one big stipulation on those incentives – that you use their lender. There are many problems that may crop up when you pigeon-hole yourself to one lender – higher rates and higher closing costs are the two biggest.
Ask to see a copy of your credit report and FICO cores. You can also order your own free credit report before shopping for a new home.
Insist that your lender guarantee its Good Faith Estimate. If the lender balks or makes excuses, go elsewhere. Reputable lenders will honor that request, even though it’s not required by law. I can recommend several qualified, reputable local lenders familiar with new construction in New Jersey.
3. Check out the Builder’s Reputation
If a buyer has a bad experience with a builder, word spreads rapidly. However, accurately and fairly assessing a builder’s history is the appropriate path. Check public records for lawsuits or complaints and evaluate their resolutions but, again, if you hire a local Realtor familiar with the builders (me), he or she can be a goldmine of information.
Talk to the neighbors and scrutinize the construction quality of surrounding homes. Is the builder consistently building same-sized or larger than existing properties, or are homes shrinking in size, which could reduce neighborhood value?
Learn if the builder limits investor purchases. This ensures that the neighborhood doesn’t turn into a “rental” neighborhood, which may appear less well-maintained and reduce property value.
4. Hire a Home Inspector
Many people who buy new construction homes don’t bother to get a home inspection. Most new homes come with a one year “bumper to bumper” warranty that includes everything, and many home buyers feel that they can find out if there are any construction flaws during those 12 months. The problem is that many problems won’t surface until well after the 12-month warranty has expired. An inspection provides education about the property, and offers the validation of a trained, independent third party assessment of the structure and systems.
If the inspector calls for further inspection by another professional contractor, find out if the inspector is telling you there could be a serious issue or if the inspector isn’t licensed to address that issue.
5. Obtain Legal Advice before Buying a Brand New Home
All of our New Jersey purchase contracts go through "Attorney Review." Make sure you understand what you are signing and what contingencies protect you, the buyer. Ask questions about removal of contingencies and your cancellation rights. A knowledgeable local Realtor - me - can protect you and explain the contract.
Find out if the materials used by the builder contain chemicals that are hazardous to your health. If your contract contains a warning about health issues, it’s probably because it’s a valid concern and other buyers have gone to court over it.
Your best course of action is to be represented by a local Realtor who knows the builders, their product, their reputation, and what is available in the area where you want to live. I have that experience. Call or email me so you can start looking and move into your new home in New Jersey before the cold weather.
Joe Giancarli, SA
Real Estate Advisor
609-658-2612
jgiancarli@remax.net
http://www.joegiancarli.com/
http://www.njhomesource.com/
http://www.njhomesource.net/
www.activerain.com/blogs/josephgiancarli
(read more at RISMedia)
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Tips for Buying a New Home in New Jersey
New home construction in New Jersey communities of Mercer County and surrounding areas is finally vibrant again, and offering new home buyers good choices. New homes are now more affordable, and builders aggressively pushing their inventories.
You need a Realtor representing you who is knowledgeable in new construction, the reputation of the local builders in Mercer, Burlington, Middlesex, and Monmouth Counties, and can help you find good financing. That would be me (jgiancarli@remax.net ). But also, make sure you consider these steps on your way to making an offer on a new home.
1. Use your own Realtor. The builder’s sales agents are paid to represent the builder, regardless of what they may tell you. Some might use high pressure tactics to persuade you to sign a contract. Due to the high-volume nature of brand new home sales, lots of builder’s agents are paid less than a traditional commission; some earn a salary plus incentives, so turnover is important to their livelihood. Your own agent (me) will represent you, act as your fiduciary and disclose the positives as well as the negatives about the transaction. Builder’s agents don’t discuss drawbacks.
2. If you have to sell to buy, use a Realtor for the sale. If your contract contains a contingency to sell your existing home before buying, hire your own seller’s agent to list your home. Be aware that buying before selling is not always in your best interest, as hard bargaining goes out the window once you’ve emotionally left your home.
3. Evaluate the costs and integrity of more than one lender. Builders often prefer their own lender because the builder will be kept fully informed of your personal progress; it’s one-stop shopping for a builder. However, a builder’s lender might not offer you the best deal. This is particularly true if the builder actually owns the lending company (the case in some of the largest construction companies). Builders will offer huge incentives to get you into your new home; sometimes up to 15% of the value of the home. However, they will often put one big stipulation on those incentives – that you use their lender. You want to shop rates and closing costs before you commit.
4. Do your personal homework. Get a copy of your credit report. Know your FICO score and any past due payments that might show. Have this in hand before you start shopping. Once you have decided on a lender, it is mandatory you are given a Good Faith Estimate of costs. If the lender balks or makes excuses, go elsewhere. Reputable lenders will honor that request, even though it’s not required by law.
5. Do homework on the builder. This is one area where a Realtor (me) representing you (the Buyer) will be invaluable. If a buyer has a bad experience with a builder, word spreads rapidly throughout a community. However, accurately and fairly assessing a builder’s history is always appropriate. Check public records for lawsuits or complaints and evaluate their resolutions; this is all easily accessible now online. I've been in New Jersey new home construction for more than 20 years, and know the reputations of all the local builders.
5. Step back and look closely at the neighborhood. Scrutinize the construction quality of homes surrounding the lot you've chosen. Is the builder consistently building same-sized or larger than existing properties, or are homes shrinking in size, which could reduce neighborhood value? Does the builder limit investor purchases, or require owner occupants? These stipulations ensure that the neighborhood won’t turn into a “rental” area, which may appear less well-maintained and reduce property value. Often, the owner-occupant requirement could be only for an initial time frame, before they are allowed to rent. Check the fine print.
6. You need a home inspector even on new construction. Most new homes come with a one year “bumper to bumper” warranty that includes everything, and many home buyers feel that they can find out if there are any construction flaws during those 12 months. The problem is that many problems won’t surface until well after the 12-month warranty has expired. An inspection provides you with education about the property, and offers the validation of a trained, independent third party assessment of the structure and systems. If the inspector suggests further inspection, be sure you understand if the issue is a serious problem or he/she just isn't licensed to investigate that particular phase of construction.
7. Use an attorney. New Jersey real estate contracts require Attorney Review. Be sure you go over the contract with your Realtor (me) and make sure the language and contingencies protect you. Make sure you understand your cancellation rights, your liabilities, and your commitments.
8. Consider the environment. Find out if the materials used by the builder contain chemicals that are hazardous to your health. If your contract contains a warning about health issues, it’s probably because it’s a valid concern and other buyers have gone to court over it.
You are probably thinking that buying a new home is a lot of hassle and could be a lot of trouble. Just call or email me - let's talk about it. I have the experience and local expertise to guide you through buying any new home in New Jersey.
Joe Giancarli, Sales Associate
609-658-2612
jgiancarli@remax.net
http://www.joegiancarli.com/
http://www.njhomesource.net/
http://www.njhomesource.com/
(resource: RisMedia.com)
You need a Realtor representing you who is knowledgeable in new construction, the reputation of the local builders in Mercer, Burlington, Middlesex, and Monmouth Counties, and can help you find good financing. That would be me (jgiancarli@remax.net ). But also, make sure you consider these steps on your way to making an offer on a new home.
1. Use your own Realtor. The builder’s sales agents are paid to represent the builder, regardless of what they may tell you. Some might use high pressure tactics to persuade you to sign a contract. Due to the high-volume nature of brand new home sales, lots of builder’s agents are paid less than a traditional commission; some earn a salary plus incentives, so turnover is important to their livelihood. Your own agent (me) will represent you, act as your fiduciary and disclose the positives as well as the negatives about the transaction. Builder’s agents don’t discuss drawbacks.
2. If you have to sell to buy, use a Realtor for the sale. If your contract contains a contingency to sell your existing home before buying, hire your own seller’s agent to list your home. Be aware that buying before selling is not always in your best interest, as hard bargaining goes out the window once you’ve emotionally left your home.
3. Evaluate the costs and integrity of more than one lender. Builders often prefer their own lender because the builder will be kept fully informed of your personal progress; it’s one-stop shopping for a builder. However, a builder’s lender might not offer you the best deal. This is particularly true if the builder actually owns the lending company (the case in some of the largest construction companies). Builders will offer huge incentives to get you into your new home; sometimes up to 15% of the value of the home. However, they will often put one big stipulation on those incentives – that you use their lender. You want to shop rates and closing costs before you commit.
4. Do your personal homework. Get a copy of your credit report. Know your FICO score and any past due payments that might show. Have this in hand before you start shopping. Once you have decided on a lender, it is mandatory you are given a Good Faith Estimate of costs. If the lender balks or makes excuses, go elsewhere. Reputable lenders will honor that request, even though it’s not required by law.
5. Do homework on the builder. This is one area where a Realtor (me) representing you (the Buyer) will be invaluable. If a buyer has a bad experience with a builder, word spreads rapidly throughout a community. However, accurately and fairly assessing a builder’s history is always appropriate. Check public records for lawsuits or complaints and evaluate their resolutions; this is all easily accessible now online. I've been in New Jersey new home construction for more than 20 years, and know the reputations of all the local builders.
5. Step back and look closely at the neighborhood. Scrutinize the construction quality of homes surrounding the lot you've chosen. Is the builder consistently building same-sized or larger than existing properties, or are homes shrinking in size, which could reduce neighborhood value? Does the builder limit investor purchases, or require owner occupants? These stipulations ensure that the neighborhood won’t turn into a “rental” area, which may appear less well-maintained and reduce property value. Often, the owner-occupant requirement could be only for an initial time frame, before they are allowed to rent. Check the fine print.
6. You need a home inspector even on new construction. Most new homes come with a one year “bumper to bumper” warranty that includes everything, and many home buyers feel that they can find out if there are any construction flaws during those 12 months. The problem is that many problems won’t surface until well after the 12-month warranty has expired. An inspection provides you with education about the property, and offers the validation of a trained, independent third party assessment of the structure and systems. If the inspector suggests further inspection, be sure you understand if the issue is a serious problem or he/she just isn't licensed to investigate that particular phase of construction.
7. Use an attorney. New Jersey real estate contracts require Attorney Review. Be sure you go over the contract with your Realtor (me) and make sure the language and contingencies protect you. Make sure you understand your cancellation rights, your liabilities, and your commitments.
8. Consider the environment. Find out if the materials used by the builder contain chemicals that are hazardous to your health. If your contract contains a warning about health issues, it’s probably because it’s a valid concern and other buyers have gone to court over it.
You are probably thinking that buying a new home is a lot of hassle and could be a lot of trouble. Just call or email me - let's talk about it. I have the experience and local expertise to guide you through buying any new home in New Jersey.
Joe Giancarli, Sales Associate
609-658-2612
jgiancarli@remax.net
http://www.joegiancarli.com/
http://www.njhomesource.net/
http://www.njhomesource.com/
(resource: RisMedia.com)
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Looking for a New Jersey New Home? Use Your Technology
The latest National Assn of Realtors (NAR) Member Profile showed conclusively that technology plays a crucial role in a successful real estate transaction. 94 percent of Realtors use e-mail daily or nearly every day, 91 percent use computers, and 56 percent use smart phones with wireless e-mail and Internet capabilities. Other options widely used include digital cameras, instant messaging, GPS devices, and PDAs without phone capability. More than six in 10 NAR members have a personal website, while 89 percent report their firm has a Web presence. Seven out of 10 Realtors have a home office.
How well am I positioned to use the technology of 2010 to help in your search for a new home in Mercer County NJ?
Joe Giancarli, Sales Associate
609-658-2612
jgiancarli@remax.net
http://www.joegiancarli.com/
http://www.njhomesource.com/
http://www.njhomesource.net/
How well am I positioned to use the technology of 2010 to help in your search for a new home in Mercer County NJ?
- I have 2 web sites
- 3 blogs with different foci
- am with a worldwide franchise company whose web site has global search capabilities
- would be lost without a digital camera
- work out of my home office
- use a smart phone
- use and respond to Instant Messaging
- use social media for networking and to support your interests
Joe Giancarli, Sales Associate
609-658-2612
jgiancarli@remax.net
http://www.joegiancarli.com/
http://www.njhomesource.com/
http://www.njhomesource.net/
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