Where will 2018 find you?

New Year, new possibilities and maybe it’s time to move into a new home?  Especially if where you are right now isn’t exactly “the place” you’ve always dreamed of living in, chances are those ideal conditions you were waiting for have arrived.  But where to start?

In the northern New Jersey area, there are many communities you may want to consider, most of which carry the benefits of quick commutes by train and/or express bus to NYC and preferred schools:

• Montclair is a community with a diversity of personalities making it a comfortable fit for so many. International dining experiences are just one reason this suburb has been called the jewel of Essex County.  Resident involvement in civic affairs and especially within the school district is very high, with parental participation almost a given.  Socially and culturally you’ll find there is a plethora of choice in this popular New Jersey neighborhood.
• Glen Ridge, with its population hovering at under 8000, is Montclair’s quieter neighbor and almost all residential, whose school system is top rated in the state. While one has a short drive to restaurants and night life, this suburb is voted #5 in the list of best places to buy a home in New Jersey and one of the top in the country. Reviews of residents past and present are positive overall, and Glen Ridge enjoys an equally high rating as one of the Best Places to Raise a Family.
• Verona doesn’t just offer reasonable commute times, but affordable housing from condo’s to single family. The 54 acre Verona Lake Park is a big draw for many who may start their home search in surrounding neighborhoods before recognizing the value of this attractive alternative.  Between the lake at the Park, community pool, block parties and preferred schools, families find themselves agreeing with this neighborhood being high up on the Best Places to raise a family in New Jersey rankings.
• Maplewood is described as having a warm and welcoming atmosphere by those who reside here. Some even describe the area as having a bohemian feel, an artsy, creative vibe going on.  The downtown village may invoke thoughts of Norman Rockwell paintings, while the housing choices are anything but cookie cutter.  Schools are shared with South Orange.
• Westfield is a small town that has big city perks like great shopping opportunities. With a reputation as the city of choice for many New York transplants thanks to vibrant cultural activities and busy downtown area, the neighborhoods still feel homey.

There are many MORE to choose from as you consider where your next home should be.  If a vision of the perfect idyllic Saturday afternoon spent in the peaceful sanctuary of your own back yard listening to the birds chirping is beckoning, your local marketing specialist is on hand to help you find your new dream home for the New Year!