October 24, 2010

Time for Work??

By ann

I have been blogging for 4 years…tweeting for 1…YouTubing (a verb?) for several months…and now the pressure of Facebook!

When I was younger, I kept a diary.  Years later, it evolved to a journal.  So, a blog is the natural progression- a place to share my thoughts…only no longer tucked away in a drawer. 

My Beach Blog is the equivalent of a newsletter.  I use Twitter to post “breaking news”, restaurant info, and seashore pictures.  YouTube has been a unique way to promote sale and rental properties (as well as the beach restoration project).  Yet, other than viewing  family pictures, I’m not clear on the value of Facebook.  It feels more like stalking than connecting.  But, without Facebook, I won’t know what time to show for Thanksgiving dinner 😉

Posted in Activities | Comments closed
October 23, 2010

Avalon Elementary

By ann

The first annual Avalon Elementary Reunion was held tonight at the Windrift Bar.  The main purpose- raising funds for a community track/ fitness stations in the school yard.

A large turn out, with a mix of parents, local residents, and alumni.  Great to see familiar faces and “not so old” former classmates!

My 7th grade class is featured on the Just For Fun page of the booklet- 23 students with really bad hair 😉

P.S.  Received a call today that I won 2 silent auction gifts Saturday night.  Thank you to the reunion committee and the generous sponsors!

Posted in Avalon, New Jersey- News | Comments closed
October 23, 2010

Market Stats- Avalon & Stone Harbor

By ann

During the past 30 days, 20 properties SOLD on the island; with an additional 46 sale pending (settlement in the near future).

The sold properties ranged from $310,000 for a hotel/condo on 79th Street, to $2,815,000 for a large custom home on 65th Street.  There were 16 sales in Avalon, and 4 in Stone Harbor.  11 were single family homes; 9 condo/townhouse units.  4 beach block; 3 bay front.  The median selling price was $1,277,500.

Of of 46 sale pending, 16 are in Stone Harbor; 30 in Avalon.  The median list price is $957,500.

Posted in Avalon, New Jersey- News, Seashore Real Estate, Stone Harbor, New Jersey- News | Comments closed
October 21, 2010

Beach Sweep

By ann

Join your Avalon and Stone Harbor neighbors for the 25th Annual Fall Beach Sweep this Saturday, October 23rd.

Enjoy a morning walk along the sand while contributing to a clean environment.  Volunteers will meet at 9am on 30th Street in Avalon, and on 95th Street in Stone Harbor.  For more information: http://www.cleanoceanaction.org/

Posted in Activities, Avalon, New Jersey- News, Life at the Shore, Stone Harbor, New Jersey- News | Comments closed
October 19, 2010

Weekend Visit

By ann

Back home after a long weekend visit to the mountains of North Carolina. 

Saw changing leaves… and adorable grandchildren!

Posted in Activities | Comments closed
October 14, 2010

Before the rain…

By ann

It was mild and sunny this morning for my beach walk. 

Unfortunately, the afternoon view from my office window is dark and dreary.

The sun is scheduled to return tomorrow…

Posted in Life at the Shore | Comments closed
October 12, 2010

Seashore Landlords

By ann

Sheets and towels?  Basic amenities for any vacation rental. 

Yet, summer rentals at the Jersey Shore continue the custom of tenants supplying their own bedding and towels.  Based on my personal travel/renting experiences, we may be one of the last areas with this requirement.

I met with the owner of www.relaxconcierge.com today and we discussed options for landlords and tenants.  Currently, there are several local companies (including Relax Concierge) offering sheet/towel rentals for tenants.  Another approach would be for owners to contract for the service and offer it as an amenity.

This “perk” would be welcomed and appreciated by tenants- especially those renting large homes.  The cost (an average of $160 per week for a four bedroom home) could be built in to the rental rate, similar to cleaning fees.

A unique way to set your shore rental property apart from the competition.

Posted in Life at the Shore, Seashore Real Estate | Comments closed
October 12, 2010

The 1980’s

By ann

Construction of townhouse units and condominium buildings boomed during the 1980’s.  In Stone Harbor, the increase was driven by a pending change in zoning.  In Avalon, land along the bay zoned for marina use was developed with multi-unit complexes.

Many of the larger buildings have been upgraded with maintenance free siding and decks- often incorporating  new architectural details for a contemporary look.

I noticed this renovation project of a side by side building on 79th Street- smart for the property owners to update to the facade while installing new exterior materials.

Posted in Seashore Real Estate | Comments closed
October 11, 2010

Really?

By ann

The fact that we live on the island year round is intriguing to some.  Reactions vary between envy, and pity (which I don’t understand- look at my view as I walk along the beach!) 

And, I can always count on the same follow up question from a new acquaintance:  “Where are you from originally?”   “Here, actually”  I say.  “I was raised in Avalon, and my husband grew up in Wildwood.”

This catches them off guard.   We don’t look like trolls who lived under the causeway bridge…with the feral cats!  We’ve had normal lives, with a few added adventures of growing up in a seasonal community 😉   We have full time jobs and love to travel.  And we feel fortunate to call this area our “home” .

Posted in Life at the Shore | Comments closed
October 9, 2010

Stone Harbor Point

By ann

The ever changing landscape of Stone Harbor point. 

From the parking lot on 123rd Street, you can walk along several miles of beach…practically to North Wildwood!

Beautiful weather for a long walk on the beach, and the many Columbus Day weekend events.

Posted in Life at the Shore, Stone Harbor, New Jersey- News | Comments closed
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