 April is a confused month. It wants to be spring-like, but can’t commit. The fog rolling in off the ocean will lower the air temperture by 10 degrees. It can be sunny and bright inland, but cold and dreary along the coast. Or, like this morning- the strong west wind was blocked by the dunes, so it felt warm on the beach.Â
We will continue to ride the weather rollercoaster for the next few weeks- knowing that the best is yet to come!
  
 The storm last weekend caused some beach erosion in the south end of Stone Harbor (getting on the beach is much easier than climbing back up :)  Miscellaneous items washed up along the shore- including this huge buoy!Â
From National Association of Realtors:
The combined total of vacation- and investment-home sales declined with the overall market in 2007, but still accounted for 33 percent of all existing- and new-home sales, which is close to historic norms, according to the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® (NAR). The market share of homes purchased for investment last year was 21 percent, which only dropped 1 percent compared to 2006, while the market share of vacation homes was 12 percent in 2007, compared to 14 percent in 2006
Just returned from our trip to Northern Ireland. Of course, the towns along the Irish Sea were my favorite! A unique mixture of massive cliffs and pink sand beaches:
   
   
Before our trip, we heard concerns about our plans to visit Northern Ireland versus the Republic of Ireland. I can confidently say that we felt very safe and welcome in Belfast and all of the surrounding villages. The northeast coast has expansive areas of open space, quiet (but well marked) roads, and charming towns along the sea.Â
Today is race day- the weather for this event is typically cold and rainy, so this morning’s sun is an added bonus for the participants. But they are running in to a steady wind (ENE 16 to 25mph per the the Weather Channel).  That’s why I’m not an athlete- too much of a wimp!Â
My grandparents made the long journey to America in the early 1900’s. My grandfather from Northern Ireland, and my grandmother from the Republic of Ireland (after studying the history, I have a better understanding of the difference). They met in Philadelphia, raised 6 children, summered in Stone Harbor, and eventually settled in Avalon in the late 1950’s.
My husband and I will travel to Northern Ireland this week. My goal is to walk along our beach Tuesday, and then walk along the Irish Sea on Wednesday! We are staying in Newcastle- a low key east coast seaside town (hey, that sounds familiar).
I am looking forward to finding distant relatives while my husband plays golf! Sláinte
The mortgage environment has certainly changed, but lenders are finding ways to work within the new guidelines. For example, many seashore buyers secure 2 loans to complete a purchase: the 1st loan of $417,000 (a “conforming” loan with an attractive interest rate); and a home equity line against their primary home for the balance. This enables the buyer to avoid the higher interest rate charged for “jumbo” loans.
When selecting a loan for a vacation home, it’s important to think ahead. Are you likely to own the house for 30 years and pay off the loan? Or, realistically, will you hold the house for 10 years and then trade up to another location/property style? If a 10 year holding period is more likely, a 10 year interest only mortgage may be a more cost effective fit.
If you would like recommendations for mortgage representatives in the Avalon and Stone Harbor area, please let me know.
Mayor Martin Pagliughi recently sent a letter to the residents of Avalon regarding the beach in the north end. Due to permit issues with the State of New Jersey, the Borough may not be able to restore the paths to the beach between 10th and 15th Streets.
He assured the property owners that “if nature helps to correct the situation between 10th and 15th Streets, we will reopen the paths immediately”.
 When I look at the sun breaking through the clouds over the ocean on a beautiful morning, I can’t help associating nature with religion. It reminds me to be thankful for the gifts in my life and think about family and friends no longer here. It’s my version of a sunrise service- very appropriate for Easter. Enjoy the weekend!
New Stone Harbor Restaurant
Noticed last night that “Quahog’s” is open on 97th Street (just off Second Avenue in the old Tri-Jo’s building).  The owners, who also own Sea Salt on 83rd and Third Avenue, renovated the space over the winter. I heard it will be a casual seafood/clam shack with take- out available. Anxious to give it a try.