 Walked just before dark last night. I was admiring the beautiful bright red sky after sunset and the large crescent moon…until a critter crossed the street in my path. Thankfully, it ran behind a house without an official greeting!
The skunks on the island are usually small and could (in the dark) be mistaken for a squirrel. They are common this time of year- maybe because there are fewer humans around to scare them away.Â
So, make some noise as you walk. Sing along to the songs on your iPod…that works for me!
 The seashore weather once again ignored the forecast- a beautiful sunny day for October 1st! Good day to wash windows and decks (the recent storms left behind a salty film). Then, walked along the water’s edge and enjoyed the beach. Not happy about the cooler temperatures arriving later tonight 🙁
    Kayak on the bay at high tide…and then
 take a long walk on the beach and watch the dolphins play.
 I have been selling real estate in Avalon and Stone Harbor since 1979 (a mere child when I started!) Our market has weathered many volatile cycles…and we will survive this crazy time as well. Frustrating that critical decisions may be based on political motives rather than what’s best for the country. 
 The wind direction has thankfully switched, giving our battered beaches time to recover from last week’s storm.  The tide reached the dune line in most areas, and the mightly Atlantic Ocean took down some snow fencing (not sure why we call it snow fencing when it’s in the dunes and rarely touched by snow?). I think the missing sand is gathering at the point- that area extends farther south each year. 
 The activity at the Stone Harbor Bird Sanctuary is increasing- both human and bird traffic. The new walkways and gardens are very attractive- worth a visit. 
 Plus…it’s a beautiful place to live 🙂
 Often it’s the “no name” storms that cause the most concern. The strong north east wind blows the soft sand sideways (ouch- that stings), and causes some beach erosion (that stings even more). We expect a few days worth of high winds, rough seas, and at least one day of heavy rain 🙁
 Another cool windy day at the shore. The trick is to stay in the sun…and out of the wind! I try to plan my walks accordingly- a challenge!
Market Statistics
http://www.powerplayrealty.com/pages/market-statistics-updated-avalon-stone-harbor-sea-isle-nj
Click on the above link to the Power Play Realty web site to view current market stats.
Quick summary: The overall inventory has increased, as well as days on market. The highest “days on market” month this summer indicates a clearance of old sale listings (most of which had price reductions over their long period on the market). Since January 2008, the percentage between original asking price and final selling price has lowered -from over 25% to a current rate of 17%. This means that sellers have become more realistic about the value of their property- and understand, if listed at the right price, it will sell.Â
Bottom Line: Properties in all price ranges are selling at the shore. Buyers want “value” for their dollar- and will pay a fair price for prime locations.
If you have any questions regarding market values in Avalon or Stone Harbor, I am happy to help: ann@anndelaney.com or 800-682-5940