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*NEW FOR RENT LISTING!* $575 p/month + utilities* CLEAN & PRIVATE 1-BEDROOM APARTMENT (6257 N. 5th St. - Oak Lane section of Philadelphia, PA)
GOOD LOCAL NEWS STORIES About FREEHOLD NJ Residents, Business Owners & Events (February 2009)
Freehold's Neighborhood Pride Committee to Host Gardeners' Workshop
The Freehold Borough Neighborhood Pride Committee has announced that it is sponsoring a Gardeners' Workshop for all Freehold Borough gardeners and potential gardeners on Saturday, February 28, at 2:30 p.m. at the YMCA located at the intersection of Center and Jackson Streets.
Bob Mellert, a Monmouth County Master Gardener, will conduct the workshop. Mellert has been gardening for a half century and, thanks to their freezer, he and his wife enjoy eating the produce they grow in their own back yard all year long. "Can you imagine never having to buy another vegetable and having fresh, healthy, 95% organic food available at all times?" asks NPC member Donna Koloski. "Bob will help others get started or improve their own gardens by discussing soil preparation, what, when, and where to plant, and will answer your gardening questions."
Koloski stresses that gardening is not an expensive endeavor and it is rewarding as well as stress relieving. Further benefits include a sense of pride and accomplishment, plus added personalized beauty to a home's landscape. "A lovingly tended garden represents personal artistry, sustenance and life. Neighborhoods with abundant gardens add a sense of wholesome beauty for neighbors and visitors alike," she says.
Koloski adds that the Committee is encouraging all participants to bring non-perishable food items for donation to area food banks. "The Neighborhood Pride Committee was founded on the belief that helping others creates a healthy and positive experience for all of us. We are proud to support our local food banks with our Gardeners' Workshop."
The Gardeners' Workshop is free and registration is not mandatory. Those who do sign up for the workshop will be eligible for door prizes provided by the Freehold Borough Recreation Commission. To register, contact Donna at pd2535k@verizon.net or 732-866-9648.
Information courtesy of:


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AMBER NOBLE-GARLAND
Weichert, Realtors
455 Route 9 South
Manalapan, NJ 07726
917-723-5645 - cell
732-536-4400, ext 199 - office
www.AmberLovesRealEstate.com
"Your Reliable Resource For Freehold Real Estate, Local Info & More"
DID YOU KNOW? ~ DEFENSIVE DRIVING COURSE IN MANALAPAN TOWNSHIP NJ COULD SAVE YOU MONEY ON AUTO INSURANCE!
WOULD YOU LIKE TO REDUCE YOUR AUTO INSURANCE?
DO YOU HAVE 2 NAGGING POINTS YOU'D LIKE TO HAVE REMOVED FROM YOUR DRIVING RECORD?
Well read below, because you may possibly be in luck!
NATIONAL SAFETY COUNCIL
"DEFENSIVE DRIVING COURSE"
Sponsored by Manalapan Venture Crew 120
This class is taught by certified instructors of the
NATIONAL SAFETY COUNCIL
SATURDAY, MARCH 14, 2009
9:00am-4:00pm
MANALAPAN TOWNSHIP MUNICIPAL BUILDING
Route 522 & Taylors Mills Rd.
The cost of $30 per person includes lunch, certifications and materials. An additional $15 will be charged for those New Jersey State residents who want to be considered for insurance discounts up to 10% and/or a possible reduction of up to 2 points off your motor vehicle drivers license.
NOTE: Keep in mind that any discount off your automobile insurance is subject to approval by your insurance carrier - some restrictions may apply.
The purpose of this course is to teach you to drive defensively. This 6 hour course includes a discussion of the behaviors that influence driving habits, as well as vehicle characteristics, the National Safety Council's "Collision Prevention Formula" the effects of drugs and alcohol on driving, and anticipating potential hazards. In fact, a similar event was sponsored by the Manalapan High School marching band in January.
If you'd like to participate in the March 14th seminar, by no later than March 7, 2009, send payment (along with the registration form below) to the following address:
Manalapan Venture Crew 120
C/o Manalapan Township Board of Health
120 Route 522
Manalapan, NJ 07726
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
**Make checks payable to: Manalapan Venture Crew 120**
Name _____________________________________________________
Years Driving ________________________
Home Address ___________________________________________________________________________________
Email ___________________________
Daytime Phone ____________________________
Evening Phone ________________________________
Course Fee = $30 p/person _____________
Insurance and/or Point Reduction (if applicable) = $15 p/person ________________________
For additional details e-mail Manalapan.Crew120@gmail.com. Participants must be no younger than 15 years of age to attend.
Information courtesy of:


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AMBER NOBLE-GARLAND
Weichert, Realtors
455 Route 9 South
Manalapan, NJ 07726
917-723-5645 - cell
732-536-4400, ext 199 - office
www.AmberLovesRealEstate.com
"Your Reliable Resource For Manalapan Real Estate, Local Info & More"
DID YOU KNOW? ~ FREE Seminar on "How To Appeal Your Property Tax Assessment" Being Held in Manalapan, NJ (NEW DATE - March 9, 2009)
UPDATE: Due to the heavy snow NJ experienced, this FREE seminar was canceled for March 2nd. The NEW date is Monday, March 9, 2009, 6:45pm-8:30pm at the same location.
Monday, March 2, 6:45pm - 8:30pm, the Freehold Township Democratic Club presents a FREE seminar on how to appeal your property tax assessment.
The seminar will be held at the Monmouth County Library, Headquarters, 125 Symmes Road, Manalapan, NJ 07726.
The speaker will be Beverly Bova-Scarano, Former Commissioner of the Monmouth County Board of Taxation, Past President NJ Association of County Tax Board Commissioners & Administrators, and Licensed Residential Real Estate Appraiser, State of NJ.
*This event is free and open to the public! Light refreshments will be served*
Topics to be covered include:
- How to avoid common mistakes
- Understanding property assessment appeals
- Just how many comparables do you really need?
- What to expect at the property assessment appeal hearing . . . if it goes that far
RSVP's are appreciated but not necessary. Please RSVP by calling 732-616-8855 or emailing vegand@verizon.net.
*Please park in the side lot, off Alexandria Drive*
The Freehold Township Democratic Club was re-established in 2005 by residents who want to ensure positive and balanced growth for our community.
Information courtesy of:


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AMBER NOBLE-GARLAND
Weichert, Realtors
455 Route 9 South
Manalapan, NJ 07726
917-723-5645 - cell
732-536-4400, ext 199 - office
www.AmberLovesRealEstate.com
"Your Reliable Resource For Manalapan Real Estate, Local Info & More"
GOOD LOCAL NEWS STORIES About FREEHOLD, NJ Residents & Business Owners (February 2009 edition)
There are plenty of GOOD LOCAL NEWS STORIES of Freehold, NJ residents and business owners who are making great things happen, locally and around the world.
With so much negativity and bad news on TV, the radio and Internet, I think it's about time we start spreading the GOOD NEWS!
Freehold Borough: A Thriving NJ Community
In the twilight hours of February 2, 2009 a raging conflagration took the life of a beloved 12-year-old girl and displaced her mother and two sisters. All aspects of the community of Freehold Borough immediately began making plans to take care of their own. Within hours, a network of concerned citizens offered the survivors an apartment, rent free. Others began raising money, and still others began to coordinate an item drop off to give them.
Freehold Borough is so much more than homes and businesses, it is a true "community" where neighbors help one another, protect one another and share freely. Freehold Borough is a model for small town values and qualities.
In a region of suburban sprawl and McMansions, people can come to Freehold and find a true sense of community. The people of Freehold have tremendous pride in their town and are often heard saying that they have "Colonial Blue" running through their veins, a reference to the high school sports teams that have had a great run of winning seasons in recent years.
*details supplied by CIC (Community Information Committee)*
Information courtesy of:


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AMBER NOBLE-GARLAND
Weichert, Realtors
455 Route 9 South
Manalapan, NJ 07726
917-723-5645 - cell
732-536-4400, ext 199 - office
www.AmberLovesRealEstate.com
"Your Reliable Resource For Freehold Real Estate, Local Info & More"
FUN THINGS TO DO IN NJ! ~ Atlantic City's First Ever "Restaurant Week" ~ March 1 - 7, 2009

A GREAT GIFT IDEA
AC Restaurant Week Gift Certificates - Click to Purchase Atlantic City Restaurant Week is a seven-day celebration of the culinary scene in Atlantic City. For the week of March 1-7, 2009, participating restaurants will offer a multi-course meal for the fixed price of $15.09 for lunch and $33.09 for dinner (not including beverage, tax and gratuity). Restaurant week offers gastronomes and gourmets an extraordinary opportunity to explore some of Atlantic City's classic restaurants - and some of the city's newest - to sample a variety of the exceptional dishes prepared by Atlantic City's chefs at incredibly reasonable rates.
Atlantic City Restaurant Week March 1 - 7, 2009
WHEN - Sunday, March 1 through Saturday, March 7, 2009
WHAT - Participating restaurants will offer fixed price, three-course meals at prices far below the normal and cheaper than early bird specialst:
Lunch: $15.09 per person
Dinner: $33.09 per person
**NOTE: Prices DO NOT include taxes, beverages or gratuity**
WHERE - Approximately 70 casino restaurants and independent restaurants throughout Atlantic City, NJ and Atlantic County.
How can I find out which restaurants are participating?
Please visit http://www.acrestaurantweek.com for full details. The restaurant list is under the ‘Restaurants' tab. If you click ‘View' for the restaurant of your choice, you'll see a description of the restaurant, location, contact information, the days and hours they are participating, and the special Restaurant Week menu they are offering.

Information courtesy of:

AMBER NOBLE-GARLAND
Weichert, Realtors (Marlboro~ Manalapan office)
455 Route 9 South
Manalapan, NJ 07726
917-723-5645 - cell
732-536-4400, ext 199 - office
www.AmberLovesRealEstate.com
"Your Reliable Resource For NJ Real Estate, Local Info & More"
USEFUL LINKS DIRECTORY ~ These Will Give YOU Fast & Easy Connections To Several Of The Companies & Brands You Use Everyday!
Ever find yourself in a pinch trying to locate a website or phone # quick? Just don't have the time to rummage through thousands of web pages?
Below are links to several local, national and international companies that millions of people use each day.
Whether your in Manalapan, Marlboro, Freehold or some other part of the world, I hope you find this information useful and bookmark this page or add it to your "favorites." By the way, if you have a company you'd like me to add to this directory by all means please let me know. Enjoy!
Arts & Entertainment
- Count Basie Theater
- Madison Square Garden
- Movies
- Netflix
- NJ Meadowlands/IZOD Center
- NJ Pac
- PNC Arts Center
- Prudential Center
Banking & Finance
- American Express
- Bank of America
- CHASE
- Discover Card
- ING Direct
- Mastercard
- TD Bank
- Visa
- Wachovia
- Yahoo Finance
Beauty & Personal Care
Books & Music
Business Supplies
Computers & Electronics
Employment & Job Hunting
Furniture & Home Improvement
- Ashley Furniture
- Bed, Bath & Beyond
- Bob's Discount Furniture
- Home Depot
- IKEA
- Lowes
- Macys Furniture Gallery
- Overstock
- Pottery Barn
- Raymour & Flanigan
Government Offices
Health & Pharmacy
Internet & Online Services
Mailing & Shipping
Maps & Navigation
Mobile Phones
News
Real Estate
- Foreclosures
- Homes For Sale
- Loan Modification
- Mortgage Calculator
- Mortgage Rates
- Realtor.com
- Refinance Mortgage
- Reverse Mortgage
- Search Real Estate Listings
- Short Sale (Pre-Foreclosure)
- Trulia
Shopping
- Amazon
- Ebay
- Ed Hardy
- Forever 21
- Fortunoff
- JC Penny
- Kohls
- Macys
- Nordstrom
- Pathmark
- Sears
- Shoprite
- Target
- Victoria Secret
- Walmart
- Wegmans
Travel
Information courtesy of:
AMBER NOBLE-GARLAND
Weichert, Realtors (Marlboro~ Manalapan office)
455 Route 9 South
Manalapan, NJ 07726
917-723-5645 - cell
732-536-4400, ext 199 - office
www.AmberLovesRealEstate.com
"Your Reliable Resource For Real Estate, Local Info & More"
MEDICAL MINUTE ~ Manalapan, NJ Mayor Partners With CentraState Fitness and Wellness Center For "February Heart Healthy Month" (February 10, 2009)
CentraState Fitness and Wellness Center
Community Outreach Program
FEBRUARY IS NATIONAL HEART HEALTHY MONTH
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
2pm-4pm
Manalapan Township Municipal Building
120 Route 522
Manalapan, NJ 07726
Manalapan Township NJ Mayor, Richard Klauber, will lead his colleagues and constituents by example by kicking off CentraState Fitness and Wellness Center's free blood pressure screening and body fat analysis taking place on Tuesday, February 10th from 2 pm until 4 pm in the Manalapan Township municipal center lobby.
All those who participate in a screening receive a free one-day pass to the fitness center. In addition, anyone who wants to get started on the road to a healthier lifestyle by making an appointment to tour the facility can spin the Wheel of Health to win an exciting prize. Those who take advantage of this opportunity will experience first hand all of the excellent services, programs and professionals the center offers all of its members. Some of the unique amenities featured at the facility include a comprehensive nursing assessment by CentraState staff prior to beginning your exercise program, as well as a follow-up consultation every 3 months.
Also included in the membership is a one-on-one training session with one of the center's certified exercise physiologists who will familiarize you with all the exercise equipment, as well as put together a program based on your individual fitness level and goals. The trainer will assess the program and modify it based on your results.
Also offered at the facility are over 185 group fitness classes a week including cycle, yoga and pilates, ballroom dance, country line dance, Zumba and many more exercise classes. In addition to latest cutting-edge exercise equipment, there is also a pristine aquatics center including a heated therapy pool, junior Olympic lap pool and a whirlpool. Both the men's and women's lockers rooms feature a steam room and sauna "Fit Kids" classes are also available to children ages three to 13 to both members and nonmembers.
For more information, please contact Anthony DiPasquale at 732 845-9400
For more information about CentraState Fitness and Wellness Center, located in Freehold, NJ use this link.
Information courtesy of:

AMBER NOBLE-GARLAND
Weichert, Realtors (Marlboro~ Manalapan office)
455 Route 9 South
Manalapan, NJ 07726
917-723-5645 - cell
732-536-4400, ext 199 - office
www.AmberLovesRealEstate.com
"Your Reliable Resource For Manalapan Real Estate, Local Info & More"
DID YOU KNOW? ~ Before & After Care Is Available For Marlboro Townhsip NJ School Aged Students!
LOOKING FOR A SECURE, PRODUCTIVE AND STIMULATING ENVIRONMENT FOR YOUR CHILD "BEFORE & AFTER" SCHOOL IN THE MARLBORO TOWNSHIP NEW JERSEY AREA?
Below is information I hope you'll find helpful regarding "before & aftercare" for ALL Marlboro Township elementary and middle school aged students...
Knowledge Learning Corporation School Partnerships (KLC), formerly known as Medallion, provides both a before- and after-school care program in Marlboro Township's elementary schools - Champions - and an after-school program in the middle schools.
The program is designed to provide children of working parents with a safe, caring, fun, and enriching "home away from home" during those hours that school is out but parents are at work.
The program is open to students in kindergarten* through eighth grade. Five optional daily activity areas are set up at each site: Sports Zone, where students are able to participate in physical activities; Take the Challenge, where students can engage in shared reading or complete homework assignments with the help of a teacher; Imagine That, where students can work on an arts and crafts or theatre project; The Nature of It, where students can construct projects related to science or nature; and Snack Attack, where students learn about healthy foods and have the opportunity to cook, create, and eat the final product. Professionally-trained adult supervision is provided at all sites.
Children may be enrolled for two, three, four, or five days per week. Tuition is based on the number of days for which a child is enrolled, and a discount is provided for siblings. An extra fee is charged for days when school is closed for a holiday or there is a one-session day scheduled. Before-school care programs begin at 7 a.m. After-school care programs end at 6:30 p.m.
"As needed" or "drop-in" care slots are available, whereby once parents pay the annual registration fee, a child may be permitted to attend an AM or PM session that is paid for on the day of service.
KLC also provides service for most one-session and school recess days. This is available for parents whose children regularly attend KLC's before- or after-care programs as well as for those parents who wish to avail themselves of KLC's services on an "as needed" or "drop-in" basis only.
Financial assistance is available.
Delayed Morning Opening- If the district issues a delayed opening, the program will still open at 7 a.m. as usual.
School Closing After Delayed Opening- If the district determines that schools will be closed after initially announcing a delayed opening, the KLC PM program will not be provided. The KLC staff will notify participating AM parents.
Early Closing of School-If schools are closed for inclement weather or for any other situation, the KLC program will be open for a 2-hour period. KLC staff will notify parents that the program is cancelled, and ask that the parents arrange to pick up their children within the 2-hour window.
If you are interested in receiving a registration packet or have additional questions about the program, contact Thea Pace, KLC Area Manager, at 732-536-2592 or tpace@klcorp.com
*Call for availability of kindergarten after-school care program*
PLEASE LET ME KNOW IF YOU NEED ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT ANYTHING RELATED TO MARLBORO TOWNSHIP OR THE SURROUNDING AREAS.
Information courtesy of:

AMBER NOBLE-GARLAND
Weichert, Realtors (Marlboro~ Manalapan office)
455 Route 9 South
Manalapan, NJ 07726
917-723-5645 - cell
732-536-4400, ext 199 - office
http://www.AmberLovesRealEstate.com
"Your Reliable Resource For Marlboro Real Estate, Local Info & More"
DID YOU KNOW? ~ The "Negative" Projections Were WRONG! Home Sales Have Increased For The 2nd Week In A Row!
The "Negative" Projections Were Right WRONG!
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Information courtesy of:

Weichert, Realtors (Marlboro ~ Manalapan office)
455 Route 9 South
Manalapan, NJ 07726
917-723-5645 - cell
732-536-4400, ext 199 - office
"Your Reliable Resource For NJ Real Estate & More"
DID YOU KNOW??? ~ Volunteers Are Needed For The Marlboro Township, NJ Historic Commission
DID YOU KNOW???
The Marlboro Township NJ Historic Commission is seeking members. A LOVE of local history is a must!
The Commission meets one evening a month at Town Hall to discuss issues concerning impact on historical properties and various aspects of their significance. Volunteers also participate in local events promoting the Township's rich history.
Interested volunteers can call Ed Piotrowski at 732-970-0134 for the date and time of the next meeting.
Town Hall
1979 Township Drive
Marlboro, NJ 07746
732-536-0200
Information courtesy of:

Weichert, Realtors (Marlboro ~ Manalapan office)
455 Route 9 South
Manalapan, NJ 07726
917-723-5645 - cell
732-536-4400, ext 199 - office
"Your Reliable Resource For Real Estate & More"
FUN THINGS TO DO IN NJ! ~ Monmouth County NJ Library Hosts Historical FREE Events in Manalapan - February 7, 2009
Here are three FUN THINGS TO DO IN NJ!
Not only are they fun the entire family can enjoy, but they're educational & FREE of charge too.
Each of the events takes place at the Monmouth County Library headquarters:
125 Symmes Drive
Manalapan, NJ 07726-3249
For more information call: 732-431-7220

STEP-INTO-HISTORY: BEN FRANKLIN GAME SHOW
Saturday, February 7
11:30 am - 12:15pm
Test Your History IQ! A live, interactive game show about Ben Franklin
Ages 5 years and older
The irrepressible puppets Dave and Augie make learning history FUN! Lots of audience participation . . . an entertaining on-screen tour of Franklin's Philadelphia . . . and a wacky music video.

LINCOLN'S LEGACY
A BICENTENNIAL CELEBRATION Meet "President Lincoln"
Saturday, February 7
1:00 pm - 1:45pm
Meet President Lincoln
Grades 4 and up
To celebrate the 200th birthday of Abraham Lincoln, an historical interpreter will portray the 16th president and author of the Gettysburg Address, who rose to greatness from his humble beginnings in a log cabin.

BLACK HISTORY MONTH
Meet "Sojourner Truth"
Saturday, February 7
2:00 pm - 2:45pm
Meet Sojourner Truth
Grades 4 and up
A living history presentation of Sojourner Truth, the abolitionist and feminist whose witty and fiery speech "Ain't I a Woman?" rocked the Women's Rights Convention in 1851. This program is courtesy of the Horizons Speakers Bureau of the New Jersey Council for the Humanities.
Information courtesy of:

Weichert, Realtors (Marlboro ~ Manalapan office)
455 Route 9 South
Manalapan, NJ 07726
917-723-5645 - cell
732-536-4400, ext 199 - office
MEDICAL MINUTE (Monmouth County, NJ) ~ Affordable Flu Clinic For Adults & Children To Be Held In Freehold, NJ - January 30, 2009
WHAT IS THE FLU?
The flu is a respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus. The flu is different from a cold, although they share many of the same symptoms. The cold is caused by a different virus, and it tends to have milder symptoms than the flu. Flu is more likely to cause complications that are more serious than a cold.

Flu symptoms can include any or all of the following:
- Coughing
- Sneezing
- Fever
- Body aches
- Runny nose and/or congestion
- Tiredness
Although they are uncomfortable, typically the symptoms mentioned above are usually not dangerous. But the flu also weakens the immune system, leaving it vulnerable to more serious infections.
High-risk individuals in particular are susceptible to serious complications, such as:
- Bacterial pneumonia
- Dehydration
- Sinus problems and ear infections (primarily in children)
- Worsening of preexisting conditions, such as asthma or diabetes
PLEASE DON'T TRY TO DIAGNOSE YOURSELF. ALWAYS CHECKED WITH YOUR DOCTOR FOR A PROFESSIONAL OPINION ON WHETHER YOU HAVE THE FLU, A COLD OR SOMETHINGE ELSE.
Whether you're from Manalapan, Marlboro, Freehold, Colts Neck or anywhere in the surrounding area, there is affordable flu prevention treament available to you.
The Monmouth County Health Department will be holding an additional flu clinic this month for adults and children.
Friday 1/30/09 from 10:00am to 12:00 noon and from 2:00pm to 6:00pm
The cost is $20.00
The Health Department is located at 3435 Highway 9, Freehold, NJ 07728
If you have questions please call 732-431-7456.
Or visit them on the web http://www.shore.co.monmouth.nj.us/health/
Information courtesy of:

Weichert, Realtors (Marlboro ~ Manalapan office)
455 Route 9 South
Manalapan, NJ 07726
917-723-5645 - cell
732-536-4400, ext 199 - office
ASK AMBER ~ What Is A Loan Modification? Can I Really Get A Mortgage With A Rate Under 4% With Bad Credit?
Amber,
My wife & I have fallen about a month behind on our mortgage payments and bills. Now we are starting to panic. Our credit is not that great right now. Our mortgage was sold by the original lender to a bigger mortgage company. I saw something on the news about a loan modification and called my mortgage company to see if they would give me a lower interest rate than the 6.75% we currently have. They said right now they're only dealing with people who are several months in default. Then today I got this letter in the mail from a mortgage company that says they can refinance my mortgage for a rate under 4%, with no money down and no closing costs, blah, blah. I don't want to lose our house. Please explain what a loan modification really means. I don't want to get caught up in any scams or gimmicks with these mortgage companies.
Thanks, J.K.
Dear J.K.
First of all please do not panic.
Since I am Realtor and not a mortgage profesional, I will not go into specifics of what you do or do not qualify for mortgage-wise, but I am equip to answer your questions from a general perspective.
A loan modification occurs when the terms of your mortgage permanently change and get reinstated at a payment you as the borrower can better afford. This is option that a lender has the authority to decide on whether or not they will allow it. The mortgage lenders and banks are getting slammed with tons of calls everyday from homeowners with situations similar to yours, so many of them have begun to handle the most severly delinquent loans first. Here is a link about "understanding loan modification" on the website for HUD (Housing Urban Development), the US government's official resource for valuable information.
As far as that letter you received about the refinance offer that sounds "too good to be true," trust me it is too good to be true. Please know that whenever anyone purchases a home, their name gets put into a pool of data that "mailing list" companies use to sell to other companies who sell products and services. This means you will begin to notice all kinds of crazy offers tell you that you can do all sorts of things for FREE or with little investment. I recommend you throw them away. Don't play the guessing game with your most valuable asset you own...your home!
If you need a legitimate, forthright mortgage expert to talk to call me, and I will refer you to one or two excellent resources. These mortgage professionals will give it to you straight, and educate you about all of the options available to you & your wife.
Stay positive,
Amber

Weichert, Realtors (Marlboro office)
455 Route 9 South
Manalapan, NJ 07726
917-723-5645 - cell
732-536-4400, ext 199 - office
ASK AMBER ~ How Do I Avoid Foreclosure? What Is A Short Sale? Can I Save My Credit?
Lately I've been cleaning out my email inbox and combing through old notebooks. I use these notebooks to jot down bullet points from countless conversations and exchanges I've had with people about a myriad of real estate topics. This exercise got me thinking...there's a wealth of valuable information that could be shared to help other people who have similar questions.
So I asked a number of my clients if they mind me sharing with others who might also be in need of help, and they agreed.

Going forward, I will regularly share detailed excerpts or brief tidbits from these exchanges in a NEW series called...
"ASK AMBER"
NOTE: I am NO "Dear Abby" but I'll give it my best shot. :)
*Please note that certain details and names have been changed to protect the privacy of the individuals*
Below is an actual email I received from a homeowner facing mounting economic challenges, and is looking for answers.
Dear Amber,
I was referred to you by my friend Tony. I know you've tried to reach me a few times over the phone, but I work crazy hours on my job so it is easier to reach me on my email.
I live in Manalapan with my kids and my wife. We purchased a townhouse in 2006 with almost no money down. Right now we're in the process of separating. Most likely we will be getting a divorce. I gave you this background info to lead me to the real reason for writing you which is we need help fast.
My wife lost her job last year so we fell behind on our mortgage. We are now 8 months behind in our mortgage payments. I just thank God that they haven't foreclosed on us yet or else we'd have no place ot go. We have two children (ages 2 and 13). The oldest in a private school we just had to take her out of because we can't afford it. I've worked on my full time job for 7 yrs. To make ends meet I now have a second job too.
A guy on my job said I could do a short sale but I don't really understand what that means. He made it seem like anybody who is backed up in their mortgage payments could just call their loan company and tell them they want a short sale. I want to avoid foreclosure if I can. My wife is mostly worried about what the neighbors on our block will think but I could care less what they think. My main concern is making sure my wife and kids have a roof over their head. I would also like to save my credit if possible as well so I can get a fresh start.
Is there any help you can give us to figure this mess out?
Sincerely,
S.D.
DEAR S.D:
I am sorry to hear you & your wife are having such tough time. You have nothing to be ashamed of. Trust me, millions of Americans are dealing with the very same issue.
Since it's hard for us to connect via phone, I will explain "SHORT SALES" in this email to you as easy as possible.
In real estate, a "SHORT SALE" is a pre-foreclosure sale that happens when the outstanding loan against a property is greater than the current market value of the property itself. A short sale is a solution for homeowners who are behind on their mortgage and cannot afford to pay. Usually they want to be able to walk away from the property without blemishing their credit to the same extent that a foreclosure or bankruptcy declaration would. Not all banks will allow a "SHORT SALE," but in these challenging economic times most will.
These are the basics of how it works...
Let's pretend a homeowner is behind in their mortgage payments a few months is facing foreclosure. Now the letters from the bank or mortgage company demanding payment begin. The homeowners owe a mortgage of $345,000 but let's say the house in today's market is only worth $320,000. In order to get out of this home there additional costs that need to be paid to cover real estate transfer taxes, marketing fees, etc.
The homeowner should first call their mortgage lender to explain the situation. They need to make sure they get they write down the date, time and name of the person they spoke to. The homeowner will also have to fill out a "financial package" provided by the lender. This package typically includes paperwork that needs to complete and must be accompanied by a letter explaining a legitimate financial hardship, a year or two worth of tax returns, multiple bank statements, an authorization letter to allow the Realtor whom they eventually choose to discuss their business matters with the lender and whatever other documentation they require. The lender will indicate exactly what items need.
In my experience with short sales, the lenders almost always tell the homeowner that they cannot tell them if the short sale will be 100% approved or not until someone actually writes an offer to purchase the home, and submits additional documents.
The next step is for the homeowner to do what you just did; ask a friend, family member or neighbor for a referral to a good Realtor (who knows how to handle SHORT SALES). Or they could go to the Internet to www.google.com and type in the words "MANALAPAN NJ SHORT SALE REALTOR."
The listing agent (SHORT SALE REALTOR) whom is interviewed by the homeowner would give a presentation to show exactly how they would market the home. The listing paperwork would be filled out, the would be listed for sale, exposed to millions of buyers with aggressive marketing and eventually a qualified buyer would make an offer to purchase the home.
Let's say the buyer and seller negotiate back/forth, then settle on a written offer of $315,000. The listing agent would then present that written ofer to purchase to the mortgage lender's "mitgation" dept. The offer would then be circulated through a variety of departments within the lending institution, and IF accepted by the lender as an acceptable offer to purchase, the contract will be considered full payment for the loan by the lender. This is a "SHORT SALE."
That's only the beginning though, as there are additional steps that must be completed in order for the home to actually go to settlement and close. The good part is that by selecting a Realtor who is trained to do short sales and has experience with this kind of real estate transaction, you can focus on your family while the agent handles all the details of getting your home sold.
I would be happy to meet with you in person to give you a complimentary home value analysis to show you what your home is really worth in today's market. I'll also go over remaining details about how a "SHORT SALE" works.
I am available to meet with you Wed, Thurs, Fri, Sat or Sun of this week between 2pm-8pm. Which day/time works best for you & your wife?
Many thanks,
Amber

Weichert, Realtors (Marlboro office)
455 Route 9 South
Manalapan, NJ 07726
917-723-5645 - cell
732-536-4400, ext 199 - office
FUN THINGS TO DO IN NJ ~ Shopping At The "Jersey Shore Premium Outlets" (Tinton Falls, NJ)
Yesterday morning I had to make a quick trip to the offices of the Monmouth County NJ Board of Realtors, to drop off a package. Once I finished running that errand, I made an attempt to drive out of the parking lot and head straight toward the NJ Turnpike North, and be on my merry way. Unfortunately fortunately for me, things turned out a bit differently.
Of course I couldn't resist finally taking a peak at the brand new Jersey Shore Premium Outlets which officially opened November 13, 2008. I've been waiting for this placed to be birth for what seems like forever. I love the outside facade of this place; it sort of has a nostalgic "Wildwood days" feel to it. Can you believe that the location is actually right off a road called "Route 66?" Now is that nostalgic or what!
As a recovering former shop-a-holic I am quite proud of myself and how I handled myself today;I only purchased a few items (2 pair of shoes, a dress plus 4 blouses) and didn't go overboard...lol! :)
Seriously though, the Jersey Shore Premium Outlets offers 120 quality designer brand name stores. I found it to be a great "dress for success" alternative to busy shopping malls for a business-minded Realtor like myself. I was able to find some of quality brands I appreciate (Ann Taylor, Burberry, Jones New York, Calvin Klein, BCBG, Michael Kors, Banana Republic, UGG, Elie Tahari & more) all at affordable prices. The Anne Klein Outlet Store is coming soon, and I cannot wait. They also have stores guys can really appreciate like Under Armour, Cole Hahn, Kenneth Cole, NIKE and Adidas.
Another thing that impressed me about this new shopping outlet, is that the stores offered current merchandise that is still wearable for the current season, and not a bunch of picked over leave-behinds that no one wants to buy. In fact, I even came across some fabulous designer leather purses in two of the stores, that I couldn't even find in any of the "high-end" department stores I recently visited.
The Jersey Shore Premium Outlets are conveniently located in Tinton Falls, an area in the heart of central New Jersey (Monmouth County) right off the Garden State Parkway.The Outlets are easily accessible from neighboring towns such as Freehold, Marlboro, Manalapan, Howell, Colts Neck, Holmdel, Old Bridge, Keyport, Hazlet, Matawan, Aberdeen Township, Sayreville, South , East Brunswick and many more. Use these directions to access the outlets via car.
I must say, my little impromptu shopping excursion to the "Jersey Shore Premium Outlets" was time & money well spent. I had lunch in their food court, picked up some classic pieces to add to my business wardrobe, and even got in a little exercise walking around to the various stores.
The "Jersey Shore Premium Outlets" has the potential to give the region economic and tourism boost at time like now when it's needed the most.
Please do yourself a favor, and pay this place a visit!
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Find impressive savings at Banana Republic, BCBG Max Azria, Burberry, Calvin Klein, Cole Haan, Elie Tahari, J.Crew, Juicy Couture, Kate Spade, Kenneth Cole, Michael Kors, Nike, Sony, Theory, Ugg.
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Weichert, Realtors (Marlboro office)
455 Route 9 South - Manalapan, NJ 07726
917-723-5645 - cell
732-536-4400, ext 199 - office
"Your Reliable Resource For Real Estate & More"
FUN THINGS TO DO IN NYC ~ New York Times Travel Show (February 6-8, 2009)
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GENERAL PUBLIC
SHOW SPECIALS
SHOW ATTRACTIONS
EXHIBITOR INFO
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Weichert, Realtors (Marlboro office)
455 Route 9 South - Manalapan, NJ 07726
917-723-5645 - cell
732-536-4400, ext 199 - office
"Your Reliable Resource For Real Estate & More"
FUN THINGS TO DO IN NJ ~ "THE GOOD DOCTOR" a Stage Play By Legendary Playwright NEIL SIMON (January 9-25) Freehold, NJ

CLICK THIS LINK FOR SHOWTIMES & TICKET INFO
OR
CALL 732-462-9093
Weichert, Realtors (Marlboro office)
455 Route 9 South - Manalapan, NJ 07726
917-723-5645 - cell
732-536-4400, ext 199 - office
"Your Reliable Resource For Real Estate & More"
GOOD LOCAL NEWS STORIES About FREEHOLD, NJ Residents & Business Owners (January 2009)
With so much negativity and bad news on TV, the radio and Internet, I think it's about time we start spreading the GOOD NEWS!
There are plenty of GOOD LOCAL NEWS STORIES of Freehold, NJ residents and business owners who are making great things happen, locally and around the world.
Sometimes those hometown folks' stories make the news, and other times they're just ordinary hard-working people who achieve extraordinary things but go unnoticed.
I will regularly bring you a Top 5 series of stories that will highlight the amazing accomplishments of everyday who live and/or work in Freehold, NJ.
Simply click the links below to read each story.
Enjoy!

1. Freehold Township athlete, Marcus Goode, wins at Princeton University track & field invitational.
4. 52nd Annual New Jersey Breeders' Dinner Set For January 25th in Freehold, NJ
If you are a Freehold, NJ resident or business owner, and you'd like to share a GOOD LOCAL NEWS story that may not have made the newspaper, click this link and email it directly to me. If I publish a story about you, it could potentially be read by millions of people online!
Weichert, Realtors (Marlboro office)
455 Route 9 South - Manalapan, NJ 07726
917-723-5645 - cell
732-536-4400, ext 199 - office
"Your Reliable Resource For Real Estate & More"
GOOD LOCAL NEWS STORIES About OLD BRIDGE, NJ Residents & Business Owners (January 2009)
With so much negativity and bad news on TV, the radio and Internet, I think it's about time we start spreading the GOOD NEWS!
There are plenty of GOOD LOCAL NEWS STORIES of Old Bridge, NJ residents and business owners who are making great things happen, locally and around the world.
Sometimes those folks' stories make the news, and other times they're just ordinary hard-working people who achieve extraordinary things but go unnoticed.
I will regularly bring you a Top 5 series of stories that will highlight the amazing accomplishments of everyday who live and/or work in Old Bridge, NJ.
Simply click the links below to read each story.
Enjoy!

1. Old Bridge, NJ third-graders learn about helping others by donating to Needy Cases Fund
2. Old Bridge, NJ resident, Nikki O'Connell wins big on national TV show
4. Official Old Bridge Township website devotes page to US Armed Forces honor hometown heroes
5. Old Bridge Township offers affordable ice skating rink for the public
If you are a Old Bridge, NJ resident or business owner, and you'd like to share a GOOD LOCAL NEWS story that may not have made the newspaper, click this link and email it directly to me. If I publish a story about you, it could potentially be read by millions of people online!
Weichert, Realtors (Marlboro office)
455 Route 9 South - Manalapan, NJ 07726
917-723-5645 - cell
732-536-4400, ext 199 - office
"Your Reliable Resource For Real Estate & More"
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