Ridgewood's 2011 Spring Market As the Ridgewood NJ area Spring Market draws near and the snow finally melts off, it's time to take a serious look at the current real estate market and at your own home. Doing your homework before you buy or sell is such an important step nowadays because of market fluctuations driven by local, country and worldwide issues. The sub-prime issues of years gone by was just the start of something so much larger. We have now progressed to being in for years of high amounts of foreclosed homes, short sales, lack of jobs, low property values, low interest rates, no sales volume, minimal property showings, even fewer offers and the buyer pool has basically dried up. All of these issues could have volumes of books written about them while discussing what went wrong and who caused it. It is so far out of your hands and mine that all we can do is to know about it and understand what it means to the sale of your home.
Foreclosures and short sales affect your homes value since they are in direct competition with you at what could be a greatly reduced price. For example : If your home valued at $400,000 and another, exactly like it and normally would be worth the same amount of money, but is a foreclosure or short sale then this other home has the ability to drive down your homes price. That's because the homeowner might be upside down in the mortgage (when the owner owes the bank more money than what the homes values is) and the bank wants it's money. The bank may take a greatly reduced offer in order to get what they can and move on. So it is not uncommon for a bank to take 10-30% less than what a true normal market would dictate. If they don't sell and take the money it can cost the bank tens of thousands of dollars to go through the full foreclosure process and finally sell the property, pay the back taxes, any disrepair and much more. If this wasn't bad enough some of the major banks were told to halt foreclosures buy the NJ Superior Court in an effort to review possible illegal methods of foreclosing on homeowners. This just delays the current housing market and drags it on and on.
Foreclosures and short sales in short drive your homes value down.
The job market as everyone knows is in very bad shape and no matter how much money the government throw money at it it will take a very long time for people to find new jobs or get retrained and then find jobs. Without people on the move buying and selling because of relocation etc this drives the housing demand way down. The good ole Supply and Demand theory basically says that as demand drops prices will drop as supply outstrips demand.
Job market issues now cause a drop in overall housing demand which drives your home value down.
The psychology of the the existing home owner and possible home buyers is paramount. Before a person, couple, business and anyone else can consider purchasing a property has to double check their id before writing that check. The perception of where one is in life financially and what the outlook locally and globally is really a very defining self realization of themselves. This psychology shows up in the lack of confidence, lack of motivation and general apathy regarding the existing market and helps to stall the market even more and help to drop prices because only those few that have finally made the leap of faith that it is the thing to do will they make offers. And those offers will only be on the homes that they feel meet their needs and that the sellers seem to be realistic about the selling price of the home.
Psychology of the current buyers is at best very tentative which helps to drive down your homes value.
Interest rates have been very very low for some time now. That's a double edge sword. On one side it's great for buyers that can actually get a mortgage and for those that can refinance. On the other side it just says that we, our economy is not self sustaining. This is evident as the government has been buying treasury bonds which keeps the interest rate artificially low and when they stop buying them in June 2011 our training wheels will have been removed. If our economy is strong enough then we will stand but if not ......
Low interest rates help buyer keep demand for homes higher but for how long.
The banking industry has completed a full face turn from the days of easy money to almost no money. The buyers at one time were in control like a buyers market usually dictates but we have passed through and now we are on the other side where banks are lending only to a few and they make it very difficult to get a loan. If you are a buyer prepare to supply the history of all of your funds, no gifts, sold employment and so much more. If you pass the muster then you would have a new appreciation of what you should do with the money. That is you better get the biggest bang for the buck you can get and negotiate negotiate negotiate to get a great price.
The banking industry helps to keep buyers away which drives your property value down.
So what does this mean for all of my friends and neighbors in the Ridgewood NJ area. Rest assure yourself that homes will be bought and sold but on light volumes from years gone by. It also means that you need to be spot on with your pricing and that you hopefully have taken care of those minor and major home repairs before putting your home on the market. It means that you need to find a realtor, like myself, that will go over your home from top to bottom and value it appropriately. I prove my pricing in three different ways. Does your agent? With a market still retreating you can't play games and hope it comes back. It may be a very long time before we see home prices that we saw back in 2005. Besides figuring out the estimated value of the home, is understanding your agents marketing used to bring in the most amount of possible buyer in the shortest amount of time. I have just that method that I can share with you. My marketing attacks the buyer by inundating the buyer with your property from many different venues using the internet. More importantly I can show you how I can possibly save you thousands of dollars and keeping those hard earned dollars in your pocket. Whether you are buying or selling in the Ridgewood NJ area call today for a free, no obligation consultation with Jeffrey Helton today. 201-566-8272 Homes In Ridgewood NJ If you think a community with tranquil neighborhoods, beautiful tree-lined streets, great schools and a vibrant downtown is just the thing for you, then you’ll love the Village of Ridgewood. Set in the heart of New Jersey’s northeastern Bergen County, homes in Ridgewood, NJ appeal to young families and retirees alike. Ridgewood’s excellent schools, proximity to Manhattan and exciting downtown area have been attracting homebuyers to homes in Ridgewood, NJ for years. I have spent more than 40 years of my life in and around Ridgewood's charming small-town community and I can personally testify to the excellent quality of life in the village. Specializing in residential home sales, I know Ridgewood like the back of my hand and I can help you find the home that will best suit your needs. Homes in Ridgewood, NJ come in all shapes and sizes. They run the gamut from Dutch Colonials to Greek Revivals, Federals and Cape Cods, with sizes ranging from apartments and cozy cottages to starter homes and sprawling estates. There’s something for every taste and budget here. The average price of homes in Ridgewood, NJ is about $650,000, with lows coming in at around $450,000 and highs that can go all the way up to $3.5 to 4 M. A major attraction to relocating families is the top-performing Ridgewood Public Schools system, which consists of six elementary schools, two middle schools and one high school. There’s also another facility that’s home to a pre-school and a private day care center. Schools here are all highly regarded, with some having been named a “Star School” and awarded the prestigious Blue Ribbon School Award of Excellence. Ridgewood’s downtown is another major draw, with its diverse array of shops, restaurants and entertainment venues. Then there’s the commute – getting in and out of Ridgewood is a breeze, whether you choose to drive or to use public transportation. If you’re interested in the community and in homes in Ridgewood, NJ, please don’t hesitate to contact me. I’ll be more than glad to help you with all your real estate needs. Ridgewood NJ Real Estate Only around half an hour northwest of Manhattan, the Village of Ridgewood in Bergen County, New Jersey is a peaceful, tree-shaded community that, despite having a sizable population of around 25,000, remains a small town at heart. Ridgewood is a family-friendly place and there’s a piece of Ridgewood, NJ real estate for families of varying means and sizes. Having grown up and lived in the area, I know how good life can be in this village with its strong sense of community, outstanding school system and wealth of recreational options. The village’s many green and open spaces, as well as its buzzing downtown district, only add to the appeal of Ridgewood, NJ real estate. Ridgewood’s shopping and dining scene is well-known throughout the region. The village is a gourmand’s paradise, with restaurants serving cuisine for every kind of palate. Whether you’re in the mood for sushi, a brick-oven pizza or homemade ice cream, Ridgewood will more than satisfy. The shopping’s not to be sneezed at either. The downtown area is home to an eclectic collection of shops selling everything from art and antiques to flowers and designer clothing. Ridgewood is also an important historic district, having been the site of a number of American and British camps during the Revolutionary War. Several homes here date back to the 18th century and there are more than a few graceful Victorian buildings still standing. Homes in Ridgewood, NJ have an average price of $650,000, with lows at $450,000 and highs at $3.5 to 4M. If you need more information about Ridgewood, NJ real estate or about the area in general, please feel free to give me a call. Ridgewood NJ Properties Welcome to the Village of Ridgewood. Surrounded by the boroughs of Ho Ho Kus, Midland Park, Glen Rock, Paramus and Waldwick, and by the townships of Washington and Wyckoff, Ridgewood is a green and peaceful enclave located around 90 minutes from Manhattan. Ridgewood, NJ properties lie near the foothills of the Ramapo Mountains, a part of the Appalachian chain, and some even have sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline. Ideal for families, this community of approximately 24,639 people has remained virtually unchanged for generations and retains the small-town warmth and charm that’s one of the main reasons behind the continued popularity of Ridgewood, NJ properties. The Village of Ridgewood lives up to its name: it has the look and feel of a real village, complete with a vibrant downtown district, and a landscape that’s both hilly and leafy. Ridgewood’s outstanding educational system is another reason behind the perennial appeal of Ridgewood, NJ properties. Public schools in the community are under the Ridgewood Village School District, one of the highest performing districts not just in Bergen County, but also in New Jersey as a whole. The Village of Ridgewood is the very picture of an ideal small town, with its tree-lined streets and neighborhoods, traditional and historic architecture and general atmosphere of tranquility. Having lived and worked in the area for the past 40 years, I know Ridgewood like the back of my hand. Contact me and let me help you find the Ridgewood, NJ real estate and Ridgewood, NJ properties that best suit your needs. Relocation to Ridgewood New Jersey Moving house is always a complex process, one that involves many different considerations. Complex doesn’t have to mean difficult as well, however. If you’re thinking about relocating to Ridgewood, New Jersey, you can make your move much smoother and easier by consulting a knowledgeable Realtor. Having lived and worked in the Ridgewood area for the last 40 years, I know all the ins and outs of this distinctive Bergen County community. You can rely on my help and advice in everything from finding the home and neighborhood that will best suit your needs to pinpointing the right schools for your children. I want to make your relocation to Ridgewood, New Jersey an exciting experience that you will actually look forward to. I’m a relocation to Ridgewood, New Jersey specialist and there’s nothing that makes me happier than helping my clients finding the home that they love. With my insider’s knowledge, professional expertise and long-established ties with businesses and community networks throughout Ridgewood, I will ensure that your move to our unique village will be as stress-free as it can be. Ridgewood is truly a great place to live. While being only around 30 minutes from Manhattan, it has a warm, small-town flavor and a strong sense of community. Families have been thriving in Ridgewood for more than a hundred years, and so will you. I am more than happy to answer all your questions about relocation to Ridgewood, New Jersey. Please feel free to call me at (201) 566-8272 or send me an e-mail via gettingmyhome@gmail.com . Ridgewood Realtor For years, the Village of Ridgewood has been considered one of the best places to live in the country – Ladies’ Home Journal voted it one of the ten best suburbs in the country way back in 1975. As a Ridgewood Realtor who’s lived and worked in the area for around four decades, Jeffrey Helton can give you first-hand information about what life is like in this serene suburban haven. Though it was officially established as a municipality only in 1894, a community of sorts had already been in existence in Ridgewood for at least 200 years. The site of encampments and skirmishes during the Revolutionary War, Ridgewood began as an agricultural community dominated by farms that were settled mostly by Jersey Dutch families as early as the 1690s. A selection of 18th century buildings such as the sandstone David Ackerman House makes up some of the oldest real estate in Ridgewood. The village also has a rich collection of 19th and turn-of-the-century homes, as your Ridgewood Realtor will tell you. No matter the style or the age, however – whether it’s a venerable Victorian or a contemporarily designed home – you can expect to find residences here on generally spacious lots in quiet, tree-lined neighborhoods. Quite a few homes, especially those along Crest Road, even have views of Manhattan’s skyline. With its highly-valued real estate, hometown feel, convenient location and booming business district, Ridgewood is a place you’ll love to come home to. Contact Ridgewood Realtor Jeffrey Helton and let him help you become part of this distinctive community. Ridgewood Homes For Sale Families thrive in Ridgewood. There’s no better place to grow up and raise a family in than this quiet Bergen County village, where Ridgewood homes for sale are shaded by old-growth trees and downtown is still a fun place to go. If there’s anyone who knows how good life can be in Ridgewood, it’s your Ridgewood realtor Jeffrey Helton. Having lived and worked in the area for more than 40 years, he knows the village like the back of his hand and he knows just where to find the best Ridgewood homes for sale that will suit his clients’ different needs. For many of those who opt for Ridgewood homes for sale, the community’s warm, hometown feel is a major attraction. In this village of around 24,000 residents – a number that has barely changed in decades – folks look out for each other and are very proactive when it comes to community events and issues. Though officially created in the late 19th century, Ridgewood was established even earlier during the 17th and 18th centuries. Many historic buildings and landmarks still stand, adding to the village’s timeless and traditional appeal. If you’re looking for something more 21st century, all you have to do is head downtown, where Victorian storefronts house everything from sushi and wine bars to cinemas. For even more shopping, dining and entertainment choices, Manhattan’s only a few minutes away. If you need more information about Ridgewood homes for sale and Ridgewood, NJ real estate in general, please don’t hesitate to give Jeffrey a call. Historic Ridgewood Once known as Newton, then Godwinville, the Village of Ridgewood in northeastern New Jersey has changed in many ways through the years, but it has also remained the same. There’s the population, for one, which has hovered around the 25,000 mark for decades and is not likely to go over it anytime soon, notwithstanding the increasing appeal of Ridgewood homes for sale. Then there’s the look of the village itself. Walking down Ridgewood’s main street is like walking back in time, when downtown was still the place to go for shopping, dining, entertainment and socializing with the neighbors. Developed mostly during the latter half of the 19th century and the earlier half of the 20th, Ridgewood’s downtown area – officially known as the Ridgewood Village Center Historic District – is remarkably well-preserved. While there are a number of historic Ridgewood homes for sale tucked away here and there, the downtown district is where you’ll find the largest concentration of historic buildings in the village. What’s more, the district’s relatively long period of development from the late 1800s to post-WWII has resulted in a wide variety of architectural styles. Thus you’ll find California Mission Revivals, such as the train station which was built in 1916, standing just a stone’s throw away from stately Classical Revival buildings, charming Colonial Revivals, quaint Tudor Revivals, and even a picturesque remnant of Ridgewood’s earlier history – the Archibald-Vroom House, built during the late 1700s. The Ridgewood Lifestyle Ridgewood’s colorful downtown district makes life in this peaceful, family-oriented village several degrees more exciting than that of your typical small town or suburb. Those who invest in Ridgewood homes for sale get the chance to enjoy the best of both worlds – the relaxed feel and myriad comforts of a suburban community along with the amenities of a big city. Here, boutiques, specialty stores and gourmet restaurants are found within minutes of Ridgewood homes for sale, as are schools, parks and services such as the Valley Hospital on 223 N. Van Dien Avenue. While you can relax in the peace and relative seclusion of your home – most residential Ridgewood real estate are situated in quiet, tree-lined neighborhoods that provide a large measure of privacy – you can also rest easy in the knowledge that most everything you need is only a short walk or drive away. Ridgewood has its own newspaper, the Ridgewood News, which is published once a week, and it also has its own cinema, now known as the Clearview’s Warner Quad Theatre, which has been in operation since the turn of the century. Interested in the Ridgewood lifestyle and Ridgewood homes for sale? Whatever it is you’re looking for – a spacious family home or an easy-to-maintain townhouse – Ridgewood real estate specialist Jeffrey Helton will help you find it. Click on the “Property Search” button above to start your search and contact Jeffrey today. Ridgewood Open Houses When you’re looking for a home, it’s hard to make a decision based on figures and pictures alone. Nothing beats seeing what could be your dream home in the flesh so to speak, and being able to ascertain whether it has all the features you require. If you’re interested in Ridgewood homes for sale, then you’re doubtless interested in Ridgewood open houses as well. Finding out which Ridgewood open houses are worth going to can be difficult, however, especially if you’re new to the area. The advice and assistance of an expert Ridgewood Realtor like Jeffrey Helton can mean the difference between a productive and even enjoyable experience and a long, tedious process. Jeffrey has lived and worked in Ridgewood and its nearby areas for four decades. With his insider’s knowledge, extensive background in construction, tenacity, and strong work ethic, he is ideally placed to provide clients with the highest level of service not just in Ridgewood open houses, but also in all other aspects of real estate, whether commercial or residential. If you’re interested in Ridgewood open houses, or if you’d like to know more about the area, consult with Jeffrey Helton and he’ll make sure you won’t miss out on anything. With his unparalleled knowledge and experience in Ridgewood, NJ real estate, he knows which homes will best suit your needs. Contact Jeffrey today for a hassle-free scheduling of Ridgewood open houses. Ridgewood Home Search Ridgewood homes for sale have been sought-after for generations – I should know, I’ve lived and worked in the area for over four decades and I’ve seen the continuous rise in value of real estate in the village. When you click on the Property Search button above, you can perform a Ridgewood home search and see for yourself the range of prices that Ridgewood, NJ properties command. The Ridgewood home search feature pulls up a comprehensive list of the properties for sale and for lease that are available in this Bergen County community. This includes single-family homes, condominium units, apartments and commercial real estate. As of 2007, the median home value of homes in Ridgewood is $791,400, a significant increase from 2000’s $387,200. Settled by Dutch farmers more than 300 years ago, Ridgewood is the kind of hometown many of us dream of living and raising a family in. This 5.8 square-mile village is replete with tree-lined avenues, distinctive homes and a charming, small-town atmosphere that makes it a warm, welcoming place to come home to. The village is also very pedestrian-friendly, with quite a few homes within walking distance of the downtown area, parks, and Ridgewood’s excellent schools. Should you be needing anything else, Paramus and more than half a dozen other communities are just five minutes away. Become a part of this exceptional community – let me help you get started on your Ridgewood home search today. Ridgewood Real Estate Agent Life is good in the Village of Ridgewood. Here in this community of less than 25,000 people, the setting is scenic and life is a refreshing mix of small-town serenity and the sophisticated amenities of the big city. If you plan to buy, sell or lease property in the village, Ridgewood real estate agent Jeffrey Helton is ideally placed to provide you with whatever advice and support you need. A native and resident of the area, Jeffrey brings years of experience in the various aspects of real estate to the table. If you’re looking for a Ridgewood real estate agent with a thorough knowledge of the community and the local real estate market, you’ve come to the right place. Homes in Ridgewood, NJ have been sought-after by families for generations. The village’s wooded, hilly landscape, numerous historic buildings, excellent schools and thriving downtown district are features that appeal in particular to parents in search of an ideal community to raise their children. Add to that Ridgewood’s proximity to Manhattan and you’ve got a combination that’s hard to resist. Trains regularly run from the village directly to Midtown Manhattan’s Penn Station and Ridgewood is also where you’ll find Franklin Turnpike’s southern terminus. No one knows Ridgewood, NJ real estate better than Jeffrey Helton, the Ridgewood real estate agent you can rely on for comprehensive, up-to-date information and advice on properties in the village and its nearby areas. Homes For Sale in Ridgewood Whether you’re looking for an apartment or a rambling estate-type property with enough room for a growing family, you’ll find what you need in the current listing of homes for sale in Ridgewood. The serene, tree-shaded neighborhoods here are home to a wide range of real estate options, from cozy Tudor-style cottages to spacious Colonials. small-town community with a population less than 25,000, the Village of Ridgewood encompasses 5.8 square miles in northwestern Bergen County. Located just a little over half an hour’s drive north of Manhattan, homes for sale in Ridgewood are convenient to New York’s myriad employment, shopping and entertainment options. You won’t have to venture far to find what you need, however. Ridgewood itself has a bustling downtown area where a wealth of restaurants and national chains and independently owned shops are located. There are several cinemas in the district as well. Ridgewood and its surrounding communities also support performing groups such as the highly regarded Ridgewood Symphony Orchestra. Apart from its convenient location, thriving commercial district and burgeoning cultural scene, Ridgewood is also well-known for the high quality of its educational options. The Ridgewood Public Schools district oversees some of the most acclaimed schools in the state and the country. Find out which homes for sale in Ridgewood are right for you. Ridgewood Realtor Jeffrey Helton will provide you with the information and advice you need to help you make the best choice. Use the Property Search feature above and consult with Jeffrey for more in-depth information. Let him show you how effortless buying a home for sale in Ridgewood can be. Ridgewood Real Estate Ridgewood has always been a family town. Ever since Dutch farmers first settled the area more than 300 years ago, families have been gravitating to the community and to Ridgewood real estate and it’s really not surprising why. Peaceful, welcoming and laid out over a wooded landscape on the foothills of the Ramapo Mountains, Ridgewood is a green oasis of calm just minutes away from Manhattan either by car or mass transit. Neighborhoods here have tree-lined avenues and homes in a wide range of styles, sizes and ages. There’s no tract housing in this town. What there is, is history – historic homes and buildings abound and are a major aspect of the village’s character. Ridgewood real estate, while made up mostly of single-family homes, also has quite a few apartments and townhouses. Homes here are generally located on wooded and landscaped lots, giving residents a measure of privacy without sacrificing community connectivity. A number of well-placed homes on higher elevations even have views of the Big Apple’s skyline. Apart from the inherent appeal of Ridgewood real estate, as well as their ideal location, Ridgewood’s other draws are a vibrant downtown area and outstanding schools. Ridgewood’s school-age children are served by Ridgewood Public Schools. If you’re planning to invest in Ridgewood real estate, or if you just want to check out what the community has to offer, please feel free to give Ridgewood Realtor Jeffrey Helton a call at (201) 566-8272 or send an email to gettingmyhome@gmail.com . Education in Ridgewood Ridgewood’s excellent public school system is one of the main reasons behind many families’ decision to invest in Ridgewood real estate. If you don’t want to compromise on the quality of your children’s education, not to mention your family’s quality of life as a whole, then it’s time you took a look at Ridgewood real estate. The village’s public school district, Ridgewood Public Schools, is made up of one pre-school, six elementary schools, two middle schools and one high school, as well as the Glen School, which runs the Infant Toddler Development Center and the R.E.D. Program. Ridgewood High School (RHS) is a recipient of the Blue Ribbon School Award of Excellence and is regularly included in Newsweek magazine’s prestigious annual list of the country’s top 1,200 high schools. One of New Jersey’s highest-rated public high schools, RHS’ consistent and continuous top performance, well-developed academic and extracurricular programs, and high percentage of graduates who go on to college are a testament to the school district’s overall excellence. The two middle schools – George Washington Middle School and Benjamin Franklin Middle School – are both “Star School” awardees, with the latter also having been named a Blue Ribbon School. Thinking about moving to the community? Ridgewood Realtor Jeffrey Helton will help you discover your best options in Ridgewood real estate. As a Ridgewood native, he has an intimate knowledge of the village’s different neighborhoods and their distinct features, as well as Ridgewood’s schools, community services and shopping, dining and entertainment options. Call Jeffrey if you’d like to know more about Ridgewood homes for sale and what life is like in this serene corner of the Garden State. Search Ridgewood Home Listings While Ridgewood may have gained a host of accolades as an outstanding residential community through the years, this serene Bergen County village remains as peaceful and low-key as it’s ever been. A wooded enclave located around half an hour from Manhattan, Ridgewood has been a favored place of residence of generations of New York-commuting professionals. If the thought of living in a quiet small-town community with urbane amenities appeals, search Ridgewood home listings and prepared to be amazed at the wide range of real estate options available. When you search Ridgewood home listings, you’ll find that homes here run the gamut from sprawling Colonials, to charming Tudor-style cottages, to ideally located apartments. Neighborhoods here are well laid-out, with many homes within walking distance of schools, parks, recreation centers and the downtown area. Downtown Ridgewood has become something of a destination for out-of-towners these days, what with its historic charm, varied collection of shops, and wealth of restaurants. One thing’s for sure, you’ll never run out of something good to eat in Ridgewood. Apart from its quiet, tree-lined neighborhoods, bustling downtown and true sense of community, Ridgewood also offers an excellent school system and surprisingly sophisticated features such as its very own first-rate community band. The Ridgewood Concert Band has been providing residents – as well as audiences around the world – with superb classical music performances for decades. Search Ridgewood home listings by clicking on the Property Search button above. You can also perform a search for Ridgewood open houses here. If you need more information on Ridgewood real estate, or if you need help in your relocation to Ridgewood, NJ, please don’t hesitate to give Jeffrey Helton a call anytime. Ridgewood Open Houses When you’re looking for a home, it’s hard to make a decision based on figures and pictures alone. Nothing beats seeing what could be your dream home in the flesh so to speak, and being able to ascertain whether it has all the features you require. If you’re interested in Ridgewood homes for sale, then you’re doubtless interested in Ridgewood open houses as well. Finding out which Ridgewood open houses are worth going to can be difficult, however, especially if you’re new to the area. The advice and assistance of an expert Ridgewood Realtor like Jeffrey Helton can mean the difference between a productive and even enjoyable experience and a long, tedious process. Himself a resident of the community, Jeffrey has lived and worked in Ridgewood and its nearby areas for four decades. With his insider’s knowledge, extensive background in construction, tenacity, and strong work ethic, he is ideally placed to provide clients with the highest level of service not just in Ridgewood open houses, but also in all other aspects of real estate, whether commercial or residential. If you’re interested in Ridgewood open houses, or if you’d like to know more about the area, consult with Jeffrey Helton and he’ll make sure you won’t miss out on anything. With his unparalleled knowledge and experience in Ridgewood, NJ real estate, he knows which homes will best suit your needs. Contact Jeffrey today for a hassle-free scheduling of Ridgewood open houses. Real Estate Ridgewood NJ For generations, the Village of Ridgewood in Bergen County, New Jersey has been welcoming families to its fold. If you’ve been in search of an ideally located, family-oriented community with a wide range of options in real estate, Ridgewood, NJ is all this and more. Home to some of the most sought-after Bergen County real estate, Ridgewood, NJ is a serene, park-like village where homes are nestled along tree-lined streets and it’s not unusual for residents to simply walk to parks and community and commercial centers. Ridgewood is still a very pedestrian-friendly community. First settled in the late 1690s, Ridgewood’s location along the Saddle River was its main draw in the beginning. As the years passed and the Industrial Age commenced, however, it was its proximity to Manhattan that became one of its primary attractions. In the 1800s, and with the advent of the railroad, the village began to become a popular choice among New York professionals, businessmen and their families who were looking for a country-like setting for their real estate. Ridgewood, NJ hasn’t looked back since. Real estate-Ridgewood NJ, in keeping with its long history as a community composed mainly of families, is made up largely of single-family detached homes of varying sizes. Age and architectural style also vary, though there is a preponderance of homes built along traditional lines. Townhomes and apartments for rent are also available for those who don’t plan to settle in Ridgewood or who would like to see what life is like here before taking the plunge and investing in real estate-Ridgewood, NJ. The village is almost completely built-out, if it isn’t already, and has maintained more or less the same population – around 25,000 – for the past several decades. Ridgewood is a community well content to maintain the peaceful, established atmosphere of the village, which is one of its many charms. Surrounded by eight other communities – Paramus, Glen Rock, Ho-Ho-Kus, Washington Township, Waldwick, Hawthorn, Midland Park and Wyckoff – Ridgewood extends over a total area of 5.8 square miles. The size is perfect for maintaining diversity and exclusivity at the same time. If you’re interested in Bergen County real estate, Ridgewood NJ properties and homes in nearby communities, please don’t hesitate to give Jeffrey Helton a call. Real Estate in Ridgewood Through the years, real estate in Ridgewood has been home to a host of notables, including legislators, statesmen, authors, athletes, and a variety of well-known figures. Once you see how tranquil, private and welcoming the community is, you’ll understand why real estate in Ridgewood has always appealed not only to celebrities, but to anyone who values the bucolic surroundings and high quality of life in Ridgewood. While being just around half an hour away from Manhattan, whose skyline is visible from real estate in Ridgewood on higher elevations, the village has a small-town feel that makes it seem to be much farther away. The majority of the homes here are located on wooded lots and along tree-lined streets, living up to the “wood” in Ridgewood. Incorporated in 1895, the village also used to go by the names of Godwinville and Newton before it was officially changed in 1866. The first settlers here were Dutch farmers who bought land in the area from the Leni-Lenape tribe back in the 1660s. As such, Ridgewood predates the founding of the United States and was, in fact, the site of numerous skirmishes and notable events during the Revolutionary War. A great deal of Ridgewood’s history lives on to the present and is visible in the village’s eclectic collection of homes and in the well-preserved downtown area. Downtown Ridgewood, with its 19th century and turn-of-the-century buildings and facades, has become a hot destination for dining and shopping in recent years, with patrons and shoppers from all across northern New Jersey and all the way from Manhattan. Apart from its selection of shops, restaurants and services, among them the Van Neste Memorial Square and the Valley Hospital, you’ll find the George L. Pease Memorial Library in the downtown area, as well as historic buildings such as the Moore and Wilsey buildings and the Archibald-Vroom house. For more information on real estate in Ridgewood, there’s no one better to turn to than Jeffrey Helton. A native of Ridgewood, he knows the area like the back of his hand and will be happy to help you find the home in Ridgewood that will meet you and your family’s needs. Ridgewood Luxury Homes Once the site of the summer homes of New York’s 19th century elite, the village of Ridgewood has since evolved into a family-friendly enclave, where many homeowners commute to a variety of jobs in New York and come home to the peaceful retreat provided by Ridgewood luxury homes. It’s easy to feel right at home in Ridgewood, a community of quiet neighborhoods serenely nestled in the wooded foothills of the Ramapo Mountains. The village’s peaceful, leafy and almost pastoral setting is one of the many reasons behind the appeal of Ridgewood luxury homes and Ridgewood houses in general. Another main reason is the village’s proximity to New York – Manhattan is only around half an hour away by car (in light traffic) and commuters can opt to take the train or use the bus service which connects directly to the Port Authority terminal in Manhattan, the country’s largest bus terminal. Ridgewood residents also enjoy the varied shopping, dining and entertainment choices provided by their neighboring Bergen County communities. These include Glen Rock, Wyckoff, Ho-Ho-Kus, Midland Park, Waldwick, Washington Township and Paramus. Also adjacent to Ridgewood is the borough of Hawthorne in Passaic County. If you’d like more information on Ridgewood luxury homes, or about the community, please don’t hesitate to contact Ridgewood Realtor Jeffrey Helton. A native of Ridgewood as well as a seasoned real estate professional, Jeffrey’s knowledge of the Ridgewood real estate market is unbeatable. Fill in the form below and Jeffrey will get right back to you. Ridgewood Houses Located west of the Hudson and north of Manhattan, the village of Ridgewood lies on the banks of the Saddle River, one of the many streams that course through this lush region of North Jersey. It was the rich soil here that attracted the Ridgewood area’s first European settlers in the 17th century – Dutch farmers who purchased rights to the land from the Leni-Lenape Indians and built the first ever Ridgewood houses. The village was a farming community in those early Colonial years and it wasn’t until the advent of the railroad in the mid-1800s that Ridgewood became the suburban village that we now know it to be today. At this time, many new Ridgewood houses were constructed as New York’s affluent escaped to this cool, green enclave, avoiding the summer heat in the city. By the advent of the 20th century, the village would have already looked familiar to today’s residents, since Ridgewood has preserved many of the historic homes and buildings of its past. Downtown Ridgewood, for example, contains a broad collection of remarkably preserved historic buildings. When you invest in a home in Ridgewood, you become part of the village’s long and distinguished history. Let Ridgewood Realtor Jeffrey Helton help you find the Ridgewood houses that will best suit your needs. You can rely on Jeffrey to locate your dream home in Ridgewood for you. For more information on the area and his services, or if you have a particular question about Ridgewood real estate, please fill in the form below. Jeffrey will mail you back a response shortly. Ridgewood Apartments If you’re not yet ready to invest in homes for sale in Ridgewood, then Ridgewood apartments would be an excellent alternative. Most, if not all, Ridgewood apartments are located in the downtown area, making them convenient not only to what the district has to offer, but also to the offerings in New York and the rest of New Jersey. The train station, housed in a unique and historic Mission Revival building, is at one end of Ridgewood’s commercial district. Downtown Ridgewood is a popular destination for many shoppers and diners throughout the region. Not only does the district contain an eclectic array of shops and restaurants, it’s also steeped in historic charm. At the heart of the area is the village green – Graydon Park – which is a favorite hang-out and gathering spot among residents and visitors alike. Stores in Downtown Ridgewood run the gamut from national retailers to independently owned establishments. A mix of the homey and the sophisticated, the shops here have something for just about everyone. Ridgewood’s dining scene offers an equal amount of variety, with over two dozen restaurants offering cuisine from around the world. Ridgewood Realtor Jeffrey Helton knows where the best deals in Ridgewood apartments are. Let him help you explore the rental properties that Ridgewood has to offer and assist you in making the move to the community. If you have questions on Ridgewood apartments and Ridgewood real estate, enter your information in the form below and put Jeffrey’s knowledge to work for you. Real Estate Ridgewood Within its 5.8 square-mile area, the village of Ridgewood houses a wide range of residential real estate. Ridgewood homes are a hodgepodge of styles and sizes that blend well together to create charming streetscapes all while remaining distinct from each other. If you’re interested in historic real estate, Ridgewood has quite a few extant homes and buildings, built from the 18th to early 20th centuries. The oldest still standing are nine stone houses, as well as the Paramus Reformed Church and the former Schoolhouse. Aptly enough, you will find them along some of the village’s oldest roads, some of which are ancient Native American trails. These living glimpses into Ridgewood’s past include the Van Dien House, the Ackerman House and the Archibald-Vroom House. Ridgewood Neighborhoods Ridgewood also has a variety of neighborhoods though none exist officially – that is to say, there aren’t really any neighborhood associations since residents’ needs are well taken care of by the Ridgewood Village Council. You’ll often hear folks here refer to areas such as “the Heights,” “the Lawns” or “the Old Country Club,” which are some of the village’s most distinctive neighborhoods. The Heights area is in the northern portion of the village, west of the railroad tracks. As its name implies, it lies on a higher elevation than its neighbors and, like most of Ridgewood’s residential areas, it features a serene landscape of old-growth trees and quiet, sun-dappled streets. Homes here are some of the most highly sought-after in the entire village. Another desirable neighborhood located a bit further south is the Old Country Club area. If you require more space this is the neighborhood for you. The area’s spacious homes rise from land that once belonged to the Ridgewood Country Club, which had moved to nearby Paramus in the 1920s. Homes here are situated in more expansive lots as well. Homes in the Lawns area were built just after the Second World War and were once primarily in the charming Cape Cod style. Over the years, however, quite a few have been converted into more spacious Colonials to accommodate the greater need for space of today’s families. Looking for just that right piece of real estate? Ridgewood Realtor Jeffrey Helton is here to help. Having lived and worked in the area for 40 years, his knowledge of Ridgewood real estate and the community as a whole is without equal. If you’re planning to invest in a Ridgewood luxury home or a Ridgewood, NJ commercial property, or if you’re in search of the right Ridgewood apartment, please don’t hesitate to give Jeff a call. You can give him an overview of what you’re looking for via the form below or contact him directly via phone or email. Ridgewood New Jersey Real Estate Ever since the Paterson and Ramapo railroad was built through Ridgewood in the mid-1800s, Ridgewood, New Jersey real estate has been one of the Garden State’s most desired properties. The railroad made the village even more convenient to New York City and this, along with a landscape that has been described as one of “varied picturesqueness,” is what brought New York’s influential and affluent into the village’s wooded hills and ridges. At this time the village was still known as Godwinville and it took a bit of concerted effort on the citizens’ part to effect the change. There’s no better time than now to invest in Ridgewood, New Jersey real estate. Whether you’re looking for a Ridgewood, NJ commercial property or a home for sale in Ridgewood, you’ll find current real estate prices to be somewhat lower on average than usual. Coupled with today’s excellent interest rates, this makes it an ideal climate for buyers. Don’t wait too long for prices to drop, however, since they’re not likely to, current economic conditions notwithstanding. After all, Ridgewood, New Jersey real estate has been sought-after for generations and with the village all but built out, the demand for homes in Ridgewood, NJ is at a constant high. Let Ridgewood Realtor Jeffrey Helton help you in your search for Ridgewood, New Jersey real estate. Jeffrey knows the village and its nearby areas like the back of his hand and he’s passionate about matching the right property to the right person. Contact Jeffrey for more information today. |