LIVING IN MONTCLAIR

Perhaps the same pretty landscapes and historic scenery that attracted the producers of HBO’s “The Soprano’s” to choose the ‘bright mountain’ known as Montclair as backdrop for several story lines is what draws your attention to this New Jersey ‘burb.  A serene residential area of Essex County, its history with Hollywood actually dates back to 1948.  At that time a biography was written about an average Montclair family which later became the Hollywood hit movie “Cheaper by the Dozen”.

A mere 38 minutes by car from the heart of the Big Apple makes it a darling of the commuter set, and the cultural and arts diversity offered cause it to be as attractive to the almost 40,000 people who call it home, as it is convenient to the City.

From certain high ground areas there are dazzling views of the city scape, while the many public parks furnish

walking paths, hiking trails and fishing ponds that beckon resident to make the most of the average 202 days of sunshine per year.

Sports enthusiasts find plenty to cheer about between the arena at Montclair State University, which was founded in 1908, and is home to the minor league team the New Jersey Jackals and Yogi Berra Stadium.  Enjoy a seasonal outdoor concert or shop for local produce at the busy Farmers Market located in the Walnut Street train station and other locations throughout town and the area. For other shopping options there’s Six Corners, an intersection in Montclair Center, where you’ll also discover plenty of choices to satisfy food cravings from the exotic to the mundane.  Be sure to schedule a leisurely walk through the beautifully fragrant Iris displays at Presby Memorial Iris Gardens during the months of May through June.

The real estate landscape is competitive. Starter homes begin around $500,000, and there are downsizing options, if you’re thinking of calling Montclair your home base.  For the insights you’ll need into the current real estate market whether you are buying or selling a home, contact your local marketing specialist for the latest details and information.