jackie scura's homes
DESCRIPTION
A Guide to Morris County, NJ Real Estate and MoreTRANSCRIPT
Dozens of Household
Tips & Tricks!
Real Estate Q&A
Jackie’s Spring Market Report
Spotlight on Local
Lakefront Living
Plus Hot Listings in Your Town! Flowers by Condurso’s Garden Center
96 River Road in Montville
Jackie Scura’s homesA Guide to Morris County Real Estate & More Spring/Summer 2013
$799,900 Montville This exceptional 5 BR, 4.1 Bath home makes a grand first impression with its winding, tree-lined drive and stately stone and half-timbered exterior. A solid oak door with decorative carvings and leaded glass window and sidelights welcomes you inside. The Foyer features an intricately inlaid hardwood floor and soars 3 stories high. Light streams down from a large Palladian window and skylights. The entire home boasts beautiful hardwood floors. From the Foyer, step down into the Family Room, with its coffered wood ceiling and floor-to-ceiling brick fireplace. A step up from the Family Room leads to a septagonal Living Room offering built-in wood shelving and walls of windows. The Formal Dining Room is an ideal space for entertaining, with deep crown and baseboard molding, chair rail, a chandelier with ceiling rosette and French Doors from the Foyer. The Kitchen is a perfect home for the enthusiastic chef, with charming peg and plank flooring, pine beadboard ceiling, center island with built-in Jenn-Air range, cabinet-faced Sub-Zero refrigerator, Corian counters and a light, bright Breakfast Nook with a built-in desk and sliders to the deck. The First Floor also offers a beautifully appointed Powder Room off of the Foyer, a large Laundry/Mudroom with doors to the deck and garage, and a Full Bath with stall shower and stylish glass vessel sink. The Second Floor welcomes you with abundant natural light from above and features an interior balcony overlooking the Foyer and Palladian window. Greet the day bathed in sunlight in the luxurious Master Suite, which offers 2 oversized, cedar lined walk-in closets, a dressing area with built-in vanity, a brick fireplace with raised hearth and French doors to the private Master Balcony. The spa-like Master Bath offers a skylight, Jacuzzi soaking tub, stall shower and dual pedestal sinks. The Second Floor also offers 3 additional Bedrooms with hardwood floors, roomy double closets and ceiling fans. The Hall Bath features ceramic tile floor and walls, a skylight, shower-over-tub and double vanity.The Third Floor offers a large, all purpose Loft space, skylights, a Full Bath, Fifth Bedroom and abundant storage in the eaves. The Basement Level of the home features a Finished Recreation Room with Pergo flooring and recessed lights as well as additional storage and a Wine Cellar.This home also offers room for outdoor enjoyment. The deck features a built-in bench and an exterior storage closet. The private, wooded backdrop turns the property into a perfect personal retreat from busy everyday life. 3.03 Acres.
Spotlight ProPerty
A Letter from Jackie
It’s Spring again and New Jersey is in bloom. 2012 marked a real turn-around in the real estate market and I believe that 2013
will bring back that feeling of security that homeowners and potential homebuyers have been lacking for the past few years. One of the things I love most about working in real estate is being a part of giving buyers that wonderful feeling of finally coming home at the end of a house hunt. A lot of people believe that being a Realtor is primarily a Sales job, but it’s so much more than that. Every Realtor has to complete the same course in rules, regulations and business practices before they can receive their license, but that license is just the beginning. It’s one qualification in a whole list of qualities that a good Realtor has to offer. one of the largest parts of my job is being a supportive presence in my customers’ lives. My clients know that I’m there for them everyday, 24 hours a day. Buying or selling a home can be a a very emotional process and my customers need me to understand both their hopes and their fears. It takes intuition and a good ear for what a customer is really telling you to find their dream home.Another part of my job is to be a marketing strategist. Every home has a perfect buyer out there and it’s my responsibility to find that person for my sellers. Between newspapers, magazines, websites, billboards and direct mailings, there are hundreds of ways to approach selling a home and I stay on top of which options work. There have been many times when I’ve only broken even on marketing expenses after selling a home, but special homes need special attention and I don’t give up on listings if they become un-profitable.It’s also my job to be a diplomat and advocate for my customers. I am the wall between them and all of the back and forth between realtors, lawyers and title agencies. I keep my customers informed, but always aim to solve the problems before they even have a chance to worry about them. This is the part of the job that many people never know is being done, but if you saw my phone records, you’d get an idea of how big a part of my day this is!
Jackie Reflects on what it means to be a Realtor
2012 was good to me in so many ways. I am the #1 selling RE/MAX agent in New Jersey for 2012! I was also fortunate enough to rank 15th Nationally and 44th Worldwide among RE/MAX Agents. Thank you to my past clients for referring your friends and family to me. It’s the greatest compliment I could receive. Thank you for trusting me with your repeat business. I’d like to also thank all of the wonderful and supportive people who are a part of my personal and professional life. I could be a top agent on my own, but I could never be #1 without the Friends & Family who are always there for me! I may be selling houses, but I work with people, and that’s what makes all of the hard work worthwhile. Jackie with Jeffrey Snyder, Owner of RE/MAX of NJ
973.335.4600 | www.JackieScura.com | [email protected]
Let’s keep in touch! I’m always happy to share what I’ve learned from my 26 Years of working in Real Estate! Never hesitate to ask for advice.
$449,900 parsippany4 Bedroom, 2.1 Bath. LR w/picture
window. Formal DR w/vaulted ceiling.
$429,900 parsippany3 BR, 2.1 Bath Split Level. Cheery
EIK w/skylight, sliders to large deck.
UNDER
CoNtRACt
SolD
!
$485,000 Boonton Impeccably remodeled 5 BR, 2.2
Bath Park Section Colonial.
$525,000 Boonton 4 Bedroom, 2.1 Bath Park Section
Victorian. 3 Stories of updated space.
DixonBros.com • 973-334-1000locally owned • community-minded • forward-thinking
NJ
Reg.
13V
H01
9237
00
At DIXON We Deliver VALUE,
HOME HEATING OIL PROPANE HIGH EFFICIENCY INSTALLATIONS AIR CONDITIONING
and NEW Ruud Premium Whole House Generators
“I wish I had one of these when Superstorm Sandy hit! My neighborhood had no power for over a week. I would have been so much more comfortable!”
— Jackie Scura
DB02722_JS Guide2013.indd 1 3/14/13 12:21 PM
$215,000 Denville2 BR, 2 Bath Expanded Ranch. MBR Suite w/Cathedral clng. Large deck.
$299,900 Mt. tabor/parsippany Masterpiece of Victorian and modern craftsmanship! Stunning gingerbread in sought after Mt. Tabor. Decorative ironwork, ornate woodwork & whimsical details throughout. LR w/stained glass, double door entry. Updated Kitchen w/door to yard. New Bath w/vintage fixtures. MBR w/balcony. Sideyard gazebo.
$188,000 parsippanyPicture perfect 2 BR Ranch! LR/DR
w/soaring beadboard ceiling, FP.
WanT To TaLk WiTH Jackie abouT cuRRenT MaRkeT conDiTionS? Call 973.335.4600 E-Mail [email protected] or
Message on Facebook at JackieScuraSays.com
pRiCES MAy BE goiNg Up, BUt iNtERESt RAtES AREN’t! In mid-March, Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke announced that until unemployment falls below 6.5%, lending rates will be kept at their current record lows in order to stimulate the economy. It’s rare for market conditions to be so favorable for both buyers and sellers simultaneously, so this is truly great news all around.
UNDERwAtER loANS AND FoRECloSURES ARE DRyiNg Up!Low interest rates will help keep foreclosures from flooding the market, as many had feared. Agreements between the government and banks have created a much more lenient attitude towards refinancing - even in the case of underwater loans. Refinancing can make the difference between families defaulting on their loans or being able to afford to stay put. Rising prices are also a boon for homeowners with underwater loans. In 2012, 1.7 million homeowners came out from underwater and the trend of gaining positive equity should continue in even greater numbers throughout 2013!
Spring 2013 ReaL eSTaTe RepoRTNEw BUyERS ARE READy to go!According to a recent study by Altos Research, between 2007 and 2010, the average number of new households formed per year fell from a pre-recession average of 1.3 million a year to 600,000. This is the lowest rate since the 1960s. During this time, the number of potential buyers and renters reaching adulthood or immigrating into the country stayed the same, but market conditions weren’t right for them to move into their own homes. Foreclosures, unemployment, tight credit and low consumer confidence all had their hand in this market downturn. Now that conditions are improving drastically on all fronts, the buyers are back and demand is on the rise! This is already leading to bidding wars and we are finally seeing two of the signs everyone has been hoping for during those lean years.
1. the inventory of homes on the market is decreasing rapidly2. increased demand is driving up prices
ExiStiNg hoMEowNERS ARE UpgRADiNg!The Wall Street Journal reported that 36% of all buyers in late 2012 were between the ages of 36 and 44. This is traditionally an age bracket full of buyers who are ready for their next step up. Incomes are higher, children are growing and it’s time to dream of bigger homes and better amenities. These homeowners generally have well established credit and employment histories and now, with so many first time buyers finally entering the market, they can sell their starter homes and move into their dream homes. Their increased buying power is another crucial part of the market recovery and represents a big step forward from the bargain hunting that has characterized real estate in the last few years.
JaCk iE SCura’S
Whether you’re seeking casual surroundings for
dinner, a welcoming atmosphere for conversation and cocktails, or a celebratory setting for special occasions, Matta Donna is an exceptional choice for polished hospitality and delicious dining.
304 Myrtle AvenueBoonton, nJ973.334.7138
www.MattaDonna.comFine Northern Italian Cuisine • Seasonal Specials
Made to Order Pizzas • Home Made Desserts
$615,000 parsippany Elegant 5 Bedroom, 3 Bath Colonial. Double door entry to Foyer w/HW floor. LR w/bow window, HW floors under carpet. Formal DR w/HW floor, chair rail & crown molding. Family Room w/full-wall brick FP & knotty pine diagonal panelling. FF Bedroom, Bath & Laundry. Master Suite w/WIC, Full Bath. Fin. Bsmt Rec Room. Large deck.
SpECiAl pREViEw! parsippanyBeautiful columned 4 BR, 2.5 Bath
Colonial. Call for more details!
SpECiAl pREViEw! parsippanyTotally renovated with stunning architectural details throughout!
$950,000 Boonton twp.Elegant 4 BR, 4.2 Bath brick
Colonial. First Floor Master Suite.
UNDER
CoNtRACt
$1,299,000 Boonton twp. An amazing opportunity to own a 10,000 sq. ft. 7 BR, 7.1 Bath home surrounded by wooded land for perfect privacy. 30+ Car Garage with finished second story. Formal LR & DR, Family Room, Great Room, MBR Suite. Indoor Pool and Sauna. Vacation at home! Tennis court. Over 7 Acres backing to protected land.
JAckie SAyS . . . “Visit the bar for the best Cosmopolitans around!”
Try Jackie’s All-Natural Stain Fighting Tips!
Life is MessyCoffee and Tea:First, try running the cloth under cold water. Never use hot water because this will set the stain. If this doesn’t remove the stain entirely, mix 1Tsp. of White Vinegar with 1 Qt. of Water. Use a clean cloth to blot the vinegar solution onto the stain.
oiLy SpoTS:Oil can often be absorbed right out of the spot it’s staining. For fabrics, sprinkle on some Corn Starch or Baking Soda and let it soak up the grease. Oily spots on hard surfaces can lift away just by leaving a paste made of Baking Soda and Water on them for a while. Easy and chemical-free!
1/4 Cup Liquid Detergent1/4 Cup Glycerin1.5 Cups WaterMix in a Spray or Squirt Bottle. Spritz stains, let sit for at least 5 Minutes, and then wash in cold water!
aLL purpoSeSTain reMover:
diSCoLored pLaSTiC-ware:If your homemade tomato sauce turned the Tupperware orange, I have a super-easy solution for you! Wash the container, rub a Lemon over the whole inside and then leave it in a sunny spot. The Sun will bleach the stains away easily!
LipSTiCk or Makeup:These stains are oil based and oil can be the best way to lift them out. Add a few drops of Oil or Glycerin and then gently scrape away the surface stain. Pre-treat the spot with your usual detergent and it should come out of the wash clean.
ink:Vinegar and Milk are both very effective in breaking down ink on cloth. Cover the cloth in milk and then add about half as much vinegar. Leave the cloth to soak overnight and then launder away!
red wine:First, blot and then blot some more. Absorb as much as you can. If the wine is on cloth you can’t soak, apply salt to absorb even more. If you can soak the fabric, Milk or White Wine will flush out the color.
JuiCe and berrieS:Again, blotting is key. Lemon Juice and White Vinegar are your best bets for breaking down the stain and lifting it out.
GraSS:This is a tough one with a sweet solution. Once you get the dirt off, rub Molasses into the stain. Let it sit overnight and it’ll be ready to wash!
GilmerTermiTe & PesT ConTrol, llC.
of Succasunna, NJResidential • Commercial • Fumigations
Termites & Carpenter Ant SpecialistsGeneral Pest • Bird ControlHumane Animal Trapping
Small Repairs • Green Pest Services Available
Established 1979
Freeestimates!
Contact Jim or Jay Phone: (973) 584-7684Fax: (973) 252-1020
Get $25 off of any
Termite or Carpenter Ant
Treatment!* *includes
1 Year Guarantee & W.D.i.r.
report
$540,000 parsippany Immaculate 4 Bedroom, 2.5 Bath home set on almost an acre. Living Room with cathedral ceiling and oversized windows for abundant natural light. Family Room featuring hardwood floor and fireplace. Heated Sun Room for year round enjoyment. Kitchen with wood cabinets and Breakfast Area. Basement Rec Room. Backyard with large deck.
$585,900 parsippanyTotally updated 4 BR, 2.1 Bath home with private poolside Oasis in back.
$489,900 parsippany4 BR, 2.1 Bath home built in 2008.
Flowing open floorplan, MBR Suite.
SolD
!
$549,900 Boonton twp.3 BR, 2.1 Bath Split Level w/updated EIK & Jacuzzi Master Suite. .66 acres.
$575,000 Boonton twp. Impeccable Farmhouse style 3 BR, 2.1 Bath Colonial. Gleaming HW floors. Large Eat-In Center Island Kitchen w/bay window-ed Breakfast Area opens into the Family Room. MBR Suite with spa-like Bath featuring stylish tilework, large glassed-in stall shower & double vanity. Finished walk-out LL Rec Room. Pastoral views!
Edison helped develop the Motion Picture right here in NJ and, in the early 1900s, Fort Lee was the Motion Picture capital of the world until the industry moved West to Hollywood, CA.
Okay, so New Jersey can’t claim to have invented pizza (although many New Jerseyans might argue that we perfected it!) but we are the home of the tomato pie, which has the tomato sauce on TOP of the cheese. This is an old tradition and NJ’s first pizza place actually served tomato pies. Want to try this for yourself? Visit NJ’s oldest continuously operating pizza parlor; papa’s tomato pies at 804 Chambers
St. in trenton. you can also sample a tomato pie closer to home at Morristown’s own tomato pie at 20 South Street. Give it a try! It’s definitely different and delicious.
Did you know that New Jersey has more diners than any other state? The first traditional metal diner was made in New Jersey by the Jerry o’Mahony Diner Company of Elizabeth.
It Came from . . . New Jersey!
Did you know that the science of studying dinosaur fossils began in NJ? In 1858, the first nearly complete skeleton of a dinosaur was found in Haddonfield, New
Jersey. The Hadrosaurus (named for Haddonfield) is the official New Jersey state dinosaur. If you want to see some ALMOST real dinosaurs in NJ with the kids, visit the Dinosaur Field Station in Secaucus! They’ll love the life-sized animatronic dinosaurs - especially the T-Rex with the Empire State Building visible behind it! For Details Visit: FieldStationDinosaurs.com
That Taylor ham, egg & cheese from the deli is a local breakfast tradition. Did you know that Taylor ham is 100% NJ? It was invented by John Taylor of Trenton in the late 1800s.
Our sTaTe’s GreaT TraDiTiONs & iNveNTiONs!
america’s 1st Commercial brewery opened in Hoboken in 1642. Cheers to that!
Hoboken’s DL&w Train Terminal was home to two amazing innovations. The first non-experimental mobile phone was located there, as was the first central air conditioning in a public place!
$459,900 Montville 3 Bedroom, 2.1 Bath Contemporary home set on over an acre. Living Room with cathedral ceiling, oversized picture window and HW floor. Formal DR w/wood beamed ceiling, French Doors to deck. LL Family Room w/floor-to-ceiling brick FP, sliders to patio. MBR w/WIC and Full Bath. Large, private lot with detached garage, storage shed.
$749,000 Randolph5 BR, 3.1 Bath brick Colonial w/over $150,000 in upgrades. Over an acre.
$549,900 parsippany5 BR, 3.1 Bath home w/heated IG
Pool! First Floor Luxury MBR Suite.
$479,900 parsippany Beautiful, spacious & eco-friendly 4 Bedroom, 2.1 Bath Split Level. LR w/bay window, HW floor. DR w/HW floor, picture window overlooking deck & yard. Bright EIK w/sliders to deck. LL Family Room, Office/Den & Powder Room. Master Suite. Basement Rec Room. Solar panels for energy savings! Fully fenced yard w/Patio & Deck.
Bernard J. Schulte, eSq. Pc79 Old Cherry hill rOad ParsiPPany, nJ 07054
p. 973.394.1212 f. 973.394.1214
a. My role in your transaction is to be your personal expert on your contract and your rights under that contract. When you sign your name to those hundreds of lines of terms and conditions, I want you to understand what they mean for you as a buyer or seller. I have practiced Real Estate Law for over 15 years, and closed 1,000s of transactions successfully. Trust me to guide you through this very important event in your life.
call me with any questions!
q. Why do I need a real estate attorney?
JackIe SayS: “Do you need a true expert on Real Estate Law? Call Bernie Schulte! I can’t recommend him highly enough!”
UNDER
CoNtRACt
$499,900 parsippany4 BR, 2.1 Bath home built in 2008. HW floors, EIK w/stainless apps.
If you’d like some advice, e-mail [email protected] Your question may even be published in the next issue!
Q: I am not happy with some work that was done on my home by a contractor. I already
paid him. What do I do now?
?????????Real EstateQ&AJackie Tackles some of the Toughest Questions from her Inbox
Q: I’m thinking of refinancing my home before the rates can go up again, and I keep seeing
“No-Cost” Refinancing offers. What’s the catch?
A: First, talk to him. Most contractors value their reputation above everything and want to make
you happy. If you can’t come to an agreement and the work is truly improperly done, talk to the local Better Business Bureau. They will send him a letter offering him an opportunity to satisfy you before a black mark goes on his record. This may get results if your own phone calls don’t. Also, in NJ, contractors are supposed to be licensed with the Division of Consumer Affairs. File a report with them as your last effort before you hire someone else and sue for your money back. Call them at (800) 242-5846 or find them and their official complaint forms online at NJConsumerAffairs.gov. While all this is going on, document everything. Take pictures, keep receipts, keep track of all your efforts to resolve the situation amicably. And if you want a recommendation for your next job, feel free to call me for companies I genuinely trust.
A: You’re smart to wonder about this. There’s no such thing as a totally free re-finance because the work
that goes into them has value. Appraisers need to be paid, credit reports cost money and there are various other closing costs as well. These expenses don’t just disappear. There are two ways that companies can do this without up-front costs. The first is to roll the closing costs into the new mortgage so that they’re a part of your principal. The second is to offer you a slightly higher interest rate and then “credit” you the closing costs since you’ve earned them more money that way. Both of these options are perfectly above-board, but they also reduce the amount you save on your payment each month. Over the course of a 30 year loan, it’s definitely cheaper to just pay the closing costs yourself. However, if you don’t have the money to pay up-front, re-financing with one of these options can still reduce your monthly expenses. Ask your Loan Officer show you all the costs before you decide.
Q: What obvious bad signs should I look for before I put down deposit money and hire
a home inspector? I don’t want to waste money!
A: There are all kinds of obvious problems you can spot for yourself. First, look into permits on any major
remodeling work. If that finished basement remodel was illegal, you don’t know if it was done by licensed constractors or someone’s Uncle Fred. Next, look DOWN when you’re touring the basement - finished or unfinished. Look at the base of the walls, especially around doorways, for signs of past flooding. Stains, swelling and warping will still be around long after the water is gone, and the stains will even leach through paint so they’re very hard to hide entirely. Also, look UP. Is that ceiling patched or stained? Ask why. It could be a one-time problem. It could be a bad roof! Also, take a walk around with your shoes off. You’ll feel every slope, lump and bump whether it’s hidden by carpet or not.
Q: I’d like to upgrade to a much larger home and a friend told me that I’d need a “Jumbo
Loan” to get one. Should I be worried?
A: A “Jumbo Loan” sounds strange, but what it really is, is just a mortgage that’s larger than average. The
main difference between a “Conventional” and a “Jumbo” mortgage is in the fees. Government sponsored Fannie May and Freddie Mac will buy loans of up to $417,000 ($650,000 in higher priced markets) from lenders. This frees up lender money so they can take on more loans. There is also a higher risk to lenders because higher-priced homes can be harder to re-sell if borrowers default. Banks never spend or risk a penny if they can help it, so they will usually charge you more and expect a larger downpayment to compensate. These loans are also more expensive to refinance, but with today’s record low interest rates, it’s unlikely that you’ll need to worry about that in the future.
$515,000 Montville Traditional 4 BR, 2.1 Bath Brick Colonial. Exceptional moldings and hardwood floors throughout. Foyer w/panelled wainscoting. Living Room w/crown molding, peg & plank floor, FP w/wood mantel. Formal DR w/chair rail, picture frame moldings. All new Baths w/stunning tilework & designer details. Finished Bsmt. Rec Room & storage.
$220,000 parsippany4 BR home offering lots of room for the money! LR, DR, Family Room.
$167,500 parsippanyPristine 2 BR! Newer windows, Pergo
floors. LR w/cathedral clng, FP.
$599,900 Boonton 4 Bedroom, 2.1 Bath stone & stucco Tudor in Boonton’s beautiful Park Section. Archways, wood trim, hardwood floors and fireplaces make it feel like home! Formal LR & DR. Sun Room. Gorgeous remodeled EIK. Family Room addn. w/FP, French Doors to bluestone patio. Luxury MBR Suite w/WIC, spa-like Bath. 3rd Floor Rec Room.
$410,000 Boonton 3 BR, 2 Bath Historic Colonial with
pocket doors, double lot, garage w/loft.
Dante puorroNMLS# 267435Senior Loan Officer/Sales ManagerCell: (973) 985-7233
I highly recommend Dante for all your preferred home Financing! He’s never too busy to help!”
5 time winner of the top producer Award
Jackie Says . . . “
Nobody likes to have rodents in their home, and odds are you take care of any infestations quickly, but what if you're buying a home that's been unoccupied for a while or have a vacation property that you only open in the Summer? Mouse droppings can add up fast in these situations. It's easy to dismiss this as a cleaning issue and carry on after vacuuming and taking care of the pest problem, but there is a larger issue you should be aware of. Deer mice, which are the most common kind in this area, sometimes carry potentially deadly Hantavirus. Their droppings and urine can spread the virus around a home and people who are exposed to it may suffer flu-like symptoms before things get more serious and lead to respiratory and kidney problems. You can deal with this by first airing the home for 30 minutes, then spraying disinfectant on all affected surfaces and, after another 30 minutes, cleaning all surfaces with disinfectant or a bleach solution. DO NOT vacuum until completing these steps because the exhaust from the vacuum will just spread around potentially dangerous particles.
Compact Fluorescent bulbs may be eco-friendly, but they're a toxic disaster if they break! These bulbs contain mercury, which is a neurotoxin. First, consider trying fluorescent alternatives such as LED bulbs. Second, hold the bulbs by the base when you install or remove them. Third, if they do break follow these steps to stay safe. Ventilate the room for 15 minutes before you begin your clean up. Find an air tight container to put the pieces in. Gather up pieces, using stiff paper to scoop up smaller bits and then sticky tape to get the finest dust. Seal it all up and wipe down the surface with a wet paper towel. Take the container to a recycling facility. Bonus tip: You need to recycle these bulbs when they burn out. Ikea accepts them as a free service, so drop off old ones and then get some Swedish meatballs!
If you have a junk drawer with batteries in it, you may have created a fire hazard without even knowing it. Most batteries are safe in this environment, but 9 Volt batteries have both contacts on the same end. If a piece of metal like a paperclip touches these contacts, paper or other flammable items in the drawer can act as fuel and lead to a house fire. To prevent this, just put a piece of electrical tape over the end of the battery while it's stored in the drawer.
Legionnaire’s Disease comes from plumbing and is rare as a home health hazard, but it’s also very easy to prevent so that you never have to worry about it at all. Smokers are at an increased risk of contracting this dangerous, infectious disease. High water temperatures can kill the bacteria, but are also a scalding risk. The simple work-around is to turn up the heat on your hot water heater to 140 degrees every few months and then run all of your taps on hot for 10 minutes. Then just turn the temperature back down and rest easy!
Mouse in the House?
Compact Fluorescent Biohazard
fAUCET pRECAUTIONS
battery powered burns
?!Surprising Home Safety Tips:
I’ve given a lot of household advice over the years, but I still get surprised all the time. Learning that something as small as a 9 volt battery in a junk drawer has led to many house fires really shocked me. I’ve compiled some of the most unusual threats that might be in your home so that you can all have a safe, happy home this Spring!
Share Your Household Tips and I’ll Credit You in the Next Issue! E-Mail me at [email protected]!
garbage and recycling duties aren't any fun. why not just have less of each?• If you have an iPad, Nook or Kindle, see if your favorite
newspapers and magazines are available for e-reader subscriptions. you'll save yourself so many trips to the curb that you can spend more time reading!
• Soda and seltzer cans & bottles accumulate so quickly. You can cut down on all of that recycling while saving money if you buy a Sodastream, or other home seltzer & soda maker. Mix up your own flavors at home, or buy syrups that taste just like your favorite brand name flavors!
• All of that packaging from your food adds up. Bulk packages will save you money and cut down on garbage at the same time. If dry goods like cereal don't get used up quickly enough to keep the big box from going stale, just invest in some air tight bins for your pantry.
• Everyone hates throwing away food that didn't get used in time. Plan your menu for the week before you shop, and you'll cut down on waste and rotting, stinky garbage that needs to go out immediately.
Do Not Disturb!Make life at home a Vacation
One of the best things about going away for a vacation is just taking a break from everyday chores and annoyances around the house. Who doesn't love a week without
dishes, yard work, laundry and taking out the garbage and recycling? If you've ever asked yourself why it can't be like that more often, then this is the article for you!
Saving time on yard work doesn't have to mean giving up on greenery or letting the backyard turn into a jungle.• Did you know that cutting your grass
too short makes it less healthy and gives weeds more room to thrive? Adjust the length a little higher and you'll spend a lot less time dealing with dandelions and crabgrass this year.
• If you get sick of constantly watering your wilted potted plants, you can save time by buying soil that's been supplemented with water-absorbing natural fibers.
• If you hate weeding the garden, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. once your plants are in, you can scatter corn meal around them to keep weeds from ever reaching the surface. The flowers will smell much sweeter when you can relax and enjoy them.
laundry is hard to avoid. You need certain amount of socks a week, whether you like it or not. One of the biggest favors you can do for yourself with laundry is largely psychological. Do one load a day and you'll never be behind, never worry about what clothes you're almost out of and you won't have giant piles of fresh laundry to iron or fold - just small, quick batches.
Dishes are another duty that's difficult to get out of unless you spend a fortune on restaurants and disposable dishes and cutlery. There are a few ways to save time, though. First, look up one-pan or crockpot recipes online. Second, always rinse as you go. A quick rinse or spray with the sink's hose when you've just finished cooking will save you a ton of scrubbing after dinner. It's all about an efficient workflow.
DiD yoU kNow thAt oN AVERAgE, AMERiCANS SpEND 364 hoURS A yEAR oN hoUSEwoRk? That equals 2 wEEkS, which is also the average number of paid vacation days in America! giVE yoURSElF A VACAtioN By CUttiNg DowN oN hoUSEwoRk!
$839,900 Denville Fully remodeled 5 BR, 3.2 Bath Luxury Home! Gleaming Brazilian Cherry floors throughout. Formal LR & DR. Family Room w/stone FP & sliders to deck. Gourmet EIK w/GE Monogram apps. FF Suite w/walls of windows & Bath. MBR Suite retreat w/Sitting Room, LR,Dressing Room, Balcony & Bath. Fin. Bsmt. IG Pool & Koi Pond. Call Dominique!
Dominique ScuraSales Associate
re/MAX First Choice realtors
cell: 973.219.8909office: 973.335.4600
Whether You’re Buying or Selling
- I Can Help!
Do you want great Real Estate Tips and News? Go to Facebook.com/ShopMorrisCountyhomes or follow me on Twitter @ShopNJhomes
$389,000 Denville Updated 3 BR, 1.1 Bath Center Hall Colonial. Renovated in 1998. LR w/HW floor & FP. Formal DR. EIK w/granite counters & breakfast area w/sliders to deck & pool. Large, luxury Bath w/Jacuzzi tub & double vanity. Fin. Bsmt. Family Room w/dry bar & HW floor. Backyard retreat w/heated IG Pool, waterfall, large deck. Call Dominique!
$299,000 Denville 2 BR, 2.1 Bath End Unit in sought after Berkshire Hills. 2 Story Entry, Open Floorplan w/loads of light. LR flows into DR, which opens to the updated Kitchen w/breakfast bar. Sliders to the Patio. Roomy, bright BRs and granite countertops in Baths. Private Patio area for ideal outdoor enjoyment.
Call Dominique for More information!
SolD
!
UNDER
CoNtRACt
DoMiNiqUE SCURA’S Featured Local Listings!
www.TaylorRaeConstruction.com
Family Owned • Fully Insured• Master Installers •
• Free In-Home Estimate •• Guaranteed •
Before: Plain Slider Doors After: Andersen French Doors
(973) 394-0949
TAylor rAe ConSTruCTion Windows, Siding, Doors & Decks
$450,000 Rockaway twp. Impeccable 3 BR, 2 Bath White Meadow lakefront home with the best views in town! Open floorplan LR/DR/Kitchen with wall of windows overlooking year-round lake views. Gourmet Center Island Kitchen w/Viking range, Thermador oven. LR offers sliders to large deck for ideal indoor/outdoor living and entertaining. .24 acres.
$399,900 parsippany 4 BR, 3 Bath Cape Cod. Lots of living space & hardwood floors throughout! LR w/brick FP. Formal DR. Gourmet EIK w/6 burner Viking range w/pot filler, granite ctrs, wood cabs. 20’x26’ Fin. Bsmt. Rec Room.
$415,000 Boonton Quiet cul-de-sac location backing to park! Pristine 3 Bedroom, 2.1 Bath Split Level. LR w/picture window, HW floor. DR w/sliders to deck. Kitchen w/gleaming HW floor, granite ctrs, stainless appliances. LL Family Room w/built-in media console, sliders to Patio. Large, private backyard w/deck, patio, custom playground pad. 2nd side driveway.
SpECiAl pREViEw! MontvillePerfect brick 5 BR, 2.5 Bath
Colonial. Call for more details!
973-334-6442
Free Consumer InFormatIon WarnIng! speCIal oFFer #1As a Trial Offer we will clean 100 sq. ft. of carpet for FREE!
speCIal oFFer #2Clean any 7’ Sofa and 5’
Love Seat and have a Chair & Ottoman cleaned for FREE!
speCIal oFFer #3Clean and Recoat your Wood Floor & Get a $75 Discount!
(200 sq. ft. Minimum)
Don’t call any carpet company until you listen to this message! Learn 6 Costly Misconceptions about Carpet Cleaning & 7 Questions to ask a carpet cleaner before you invite them into your home!
Call anytime, 24 Hours a Day to listen to this
Free pre-recorded message
888-761-2442
call Today to Schedule a FRee carpet audit in your home!
Our 10 Step Process removes Dirt, Pollens, Pollutants, Dust Mites & Fungus trapped in your carpets & fabrics.
Benefit from our 30 Years of Experience!
ActionCarpetCleaningofNJ.comThe Best Cleaning Experience ever or its’s FREE! GuARANTEEd!
We offer an iron clad 100% Money Back guarantee.
Doggie Damage Fact:Cat and dog urine can cause permanent color damage, either from adding color by dying the carpet fibers or removing color by bleaching out the carpet fibers.
Fact: When urine is deposited, it is in an acid state but, as the moisture evaporates, the urine crystal salts become more concentrated & it turns alkaline (hence the ammonia odor.)
Fact: Simple cleaning will NOT remove these odors or stains. In fact, the crystals are generally reactivated by moisture. Notice how the odor is more offensive on humid Summer days.
Fact: Urine deposited on a carpet can contaminate the backing, the pad, the tack strips and the floor underneath. Even hardwood or concrete floors will absorb unpleasant odors. What do you do?
Step 1: We must determine the degree of contamination. This is done using a black light and a urine probe. Step 2: Now we will use 1 of 3 types of treatment. A. Minor problem treatment: An enzyme digester deodorizer is pre-sprayed on all affected areas. The enzyme is designed to digest the urine bacteria prior to cleaning. Extraction is then performed using the world famous Bane-Clene Extraction System.B. Moderate problem treatment: If contamination has reached the backing, then we need to use an oxidizer treatment in conjunction with a tool called “the Water Claw”. First an oxidizer odor and stain powder is mixed in a pail of hot water & then poured over the contaminated spot to saturate the carpet fiber, backing, and pad. We then use the “Water Claw” to extract the water, chemical, stain and odor from the carpet, backing, and pad. (Caution: if there is a wood floor beneath the carpet you must be aware that although it is rare, there is a potential for floor warping.)C. Severe problem treatment: This is a full-blown odor treatment designed to completely remove the odor if the pet not longer lives in the home. The carpet is pulled up and cleaned on both sides. The padding is then discarded. Next the sub floor, tack strips, baseboards and carpet backing are all treated with an “odor barrier”. Note: This treatment is rare but when it is needed it must be weighed against the cost of replacing both carpet and pad. “Odor Barrier” must still be applied to treat the sub floor and baseboards.
Q. Will the stains and odor be gone? It usually possible to remove 80-90% of the stain and de-orderize the carpet. Success depends largely on how long the stain has been in the fiber.Q. Is there a guarantee for pet stain & odor removal? Unfortunately, no. The problem may extend deeper than the carpet & pad and one cleaning may not be enough. Even the most difficult stains can be improved, though
Q. Can vomit stains be removed? Often, yes. However, the chances are reduced if an improper spot removal solution has been applied to the stain before our arrival. Also, some cat food has red dye that permanently stains nylon carpets. If this occurs, we have a red dye removal system that can remove most vomit stains. Difficult stains can also be treated with a reducer & energy light which gives a good chance for 80-95% removal.
Q. Can I take care of minor problems myself? Absolutely. We have excellent professional products available for you!
Frequently Asked Questions
Expert Advice from Action Carpet!
$189,900 Jefferson twp.3 BR home w/large LR, potential for
LL Family Room. Convenient to lake!
$359,900 Denville3 Bedroom w/Formal LR & DR, Sun Room, Family Room w/wood stove.
$569,900 Denville 4 Bedroom, 2.1 Bath Colonial. Great Room ideal for entertaining or everyday living w/gleaming hardwood floor, wood trim, brick FP flanked by bookcases & sliders to deck for indoor/outdoor living all Summer long. Kitchen w/SS appliances, bright breakfast nook. MBR Suite w/WIC, Bath. 40’x12’ Deck backing to beautiful terraced yard.
UNDER
CoNtRACt
$999,000 Boonton twp. This 4 BR, 2.2 Bath home offers over 5,000 sq. ft. of luxurious living. Formal LR & DR. 2 Story Family Room w/stone FP. Great Room w/built-in wet bar. Gorgeous Kitchen w/granite counters, SS appliances. Sun Room w/beamed ceiling. MBR Suite w/adjacent surround-wired Media Room. Finished Basement Office. 2.73 Acres
$369,900 BoontonWell maintained 3 BR, 2.1 Bath
home. LL Family Room & Office.
SolD
!
Your Guide to Local Lakefront LivingYour Guide to Local Lakefront Living
Indian Lake is Denville’s largest lake community with 1,200 households and a 99 acre lake. The lake association, which is requires membership, maintains three beaches which are staffed with lifeguards during the summer. The main beach is home to the clubhouse and is a center of activity. Boating, fishing, tennis, basketball, horseshoes, and other sporting activities, such as water-skiing and tubing, are available. Unlike other local lake communities, Indian Lake is large enough to allow motor boats.
Cedar Lake is 99 acres and set in the middle of 320 acres of natural beauty. Residents enjoy swimming, fishing, ice skating, and non-motor boating on the lake. During the Summer, members enjoy two sand beaches and a floating dock. The Cedar Lake Community Club offers a clubhouse available to all members of the lake, which provides a tennis court, basketball court, and a playground, as well as many regular community events.
Lake Arrowhead is well known for its charming Tudor cottages, which give the community an enchanted character all its own. This Denville community offers residents four bodies of water for lakefront living. Three major lakes - Lake Arrowhead itself, the Great Bay, and the picturesque Bay of Deep Waters - account for most of the waterfront acreage and recreational spots. Membership dues pay for year-round lake maintenance, use of the docks and beaches and annual community events. Additionally, the lakes are regularly stocked for fishing.
Rock Ridge Lake is a friendly community surrounding a stunning 11 acre lake. The Rock Ridge Country Club maintains a large, welcoming clubhouse and keeps the lake well stocked for fishing enthusiasts. The private, sandy beach offers a safe swimming area for children, lanes for exercise laps, a diving board and play and sporting areas. This neighborhood is also a haven for local wildlife and is home to everything from ducks to beavers!
In Denville . . .
Lake Parsippany is Parsippany’s largest lake at 159 acres and, as such, is able to extend membership to people from outside of the community. The community offers three beaches - two of which are life-guard staffed during Summer months. They also feature snack stands and restrooms. The community benefits from swim and boating lessons, trout stocked fishing waters, many community clubs, a playground and a spacious clubhouse for member dances, Family Fun nights and other community events.
Rainbow Lakes is a peaceful community, built around several bodies of water and straddling the borders of Parsippany and Denville. Residents enjoy swimming, fishing, ice skating, and non-motor boating. The sand beach and floating dock on the main lake are popular recreation spots in the warmer months. The Rainbow Lake Community Club runs a clubhouse for its members and hosts a bar for the adults every weekend. Additionally, they provide a volley ball court, tennis court and playground and organize many community activities.
In Parsippany . . .
Back in the days before Morris County was as densely populated as it is today, Parsippany and Denville were small towns surrounded by farmland and woods. Even so, this area was still a big draw in the Summer due to its stunning lake communities. New York City, Newark and Jersey City were hot and unpleasant and Northern New Jersey's peaceful, wooded landscapes were the perfect antidote. Today these Summer retreats have become year-round communities where you can enjoy the natural beauty that vacationers used to wait all year for!
$659,900 parsippany Powder Mill Perfection! 4 Bedroom, 3.1 Bath Colonial. Roomy, bright Foyer. Living Room with gleaming HW floor & picture window. Formal DR. Great Room with soaring Cathedral ceiling & skylights. Large Eat-In Kitchen with granite counters, wood cabinets, breakfast area w/sliders to patio. First Floor Office, Powder Room & Laundry. 2nd Floor Loft with Panoramic views from Palladian window. Master Bedroom Suite offering walk-in closet & spa-like bath w/Jacuzzi, skylight, 2 pedestal sinks & floor-to-ceiling marble tile. Fully finished Basement retreat with Sauna, large Rec Room & Exercise Room. Private paver patio.
JSthE lAw oFFiCE of JoSEph S. SCURA, llC
● Criminal Defense ● Municipal Court ● Family law ● Civil practice
www.JosephScuralaw.com
Essex County Office:331 Central Ave.
Orange, NJ 07050
Morris County Office:1160 Route 46 West
Parsippany, NJ 07054
Two ConvenienT LoCaTions:
Violent CrimesDrug offensesDomestic ViolenceAppeals
Juvenile MattersDWITraffic ViolationsCustody
Spousal SupportPersonal InjuryContract DisputesLandlord/tenant
p 973-414-8787 ● F 973-414-0606 ● [email protected]
Paint PaintDecoding the Language of
PaintDecoding the Language ofThere has never been a bigger
selection of paints to choose from, but don’t be intimidated! Choose the right paint for every job with this handy guide.
Do I Want Special Bathroom Paint?This is one room where you can really benefit from special paint. Until recently, gloss paint was your only option for repelling moisture and sometimes it would still mildew. Now there are special bathroom paints which repel mildew, wipe clean and even offer matte finishes!
What is Eco-Friendly Paint?When you see a paint label that says low VOCs, why should you care? VOCs are Volatile Organic Compunds that evaporate into the air gradually after you paint. These chemicals aren’t good for the environment and they aren’t good for you, either. There are many potential health problems associated with VOCs. This is especially important to consider during colder weather, when you can’t always just leave your windows open to air out a room after painting.
Is Premium Paint Worth It?Premium paint doesn’t just have a fancier label. It offers stronger pigments, superior coverage and better cleanability. For high traffic areas, that can be a great investment. If you’re covering up dark paint, Benjamin Moore promises you’ll never need more than 2 coats for full coverage! This can save you time & money since you’ll need less paint.
Just How Much Gloss Do I Want?Matte/Flat paint has no sheen and a rougher texture than other paints. It is ideal for hiding imperfections on your walls and ceilings because it absorbs, rather than reflects, light. The trade-off is that lower end mattes won’t wipe clean quite as well as higher gloss paints and colors tend to look less vivid in this finish.
Eggshell is a happy medium between satin and matte. It has a low-sheen finish, but a smoother surface for easier cleaning.
Satin finish paint takes the sheen up a level - which gives a warm glow to a room. It cleans up well, but the more reflective surface will show all flaws.
Semi-Gloss is highly cleanable, wears well in high-traffic areas and is a great choice for Hallways, Kitchens, Bathrooms, Cabinets & Trim.
Gloss paint is great for high-drama reflective finishes on trim and cabinets. It’s also easy to clean and resists stains, fingerprints and dirt. Gloss and Semi-Gloss can both do a great job on trim, so it’s really a matter of how much shine you like to see.
Water Stains or Wood Knots?Killz Primer will save the day. Water stains and the resins from pine knots will keep leaching through the paint no matter how coats you use. It’s like a curse! Prime first with Killz and the curse is lifted!
Special Effects Paints!Chalkboard paints can make any surface a washable chalkboard for your reminders or your child’s artwork, and they don’t even need to be black. You can buy it in any color from Benjamin Moore!
Sand finish paints offer a subtle textured finish (far smoother than stucco) and great coverage on flawed walls.
Glazes offer a tinted, semi-sheer finish that goes over regular paint for special, artistic effects. It comes in both regular colors and metallic varieties, so you can get creative with your paint!
Jackie Says . . . “I always recommend Benjamin Moore Paints to my clients, and all the painters I work with prefer them, too. Their colors and quality are exceptional!”
$769,900 Boonton twp. 4 Bedroom, 2.2 Bath stone Colonial with gracious 2 Story Foyer, Formal LR w/HW floor, Family Room/Dining Room combo w/stone FP and sliders to deck, gourmet center island Kitchen w/breakfast area. MBR Suite w/WIC, Jacuzzi Bath, private balcony. Finished basement Media Room. Wrap-around deck. Poolside oasis w/waterfall.
SpECiAl pREViEw! parsippanyCurrently under construction! Be the first to see it! Call for details!
$629,900 Boonton twp.Gorgeous home w/stunning EIK,
In-Law Suite, In-Ground Pool.
$950,000 Boonton twp.Elegant 4 BR, 4.2 Bath brick
Colonial. First Floor Master Suite.
UNDER
CoNtRACt
SolD
!
Call: (973) 541-9559 | Find us online: www.norroctank.com| e-Mail: [email protected]
We have the broad experience you need to handle your environmental challenges while complying with today’s strict State & Federal laws. NorRoc is fully permitted & insured in the Tri-State area.
tank installations • tank Removals tank Cleaning • tank Abandoning in placeRemediation • groundwater investigations
Soil testing • tank testing, Scanning & locating
Residential seRvices OffeRed By Norroc ENtErprisEs
Jackie Says . . . “Hire the Oil Tank Experts!”
$535,000 Denville 4 Bedroom, 2.1 Bath Contemporary home set in a gorgeous, wooded location. Hardwood floors throughout. LR w/triple picture windows, formal DR, Family Room w/FP and charming peg & plank flooring. Gourmet EIK w/pro SS appliances, wine fridge. MBR Suite w/WIC and Bath. Finished Basement Rec Room. 1.53 Acres.
Aries lives for the thrill of the moment and is adventurous and outgoing. An Aries needs room to explore, so they’ll crave vibrant downtowns, cultural attractions and wilderness trails nearby. This sign is also very trusting, so they need to make sure to hire good home inspectors, mortgage reps and title companies to watch out for their best interests!
TAurus craves security and enters into every situation thoroughly prepared. This sign makes the ideal buyer or seller because all of their ducks will be in a row with mortgages, household maintenance and all the other obstacles that can tie up less meticulous people. However, Taureans’ caution can be a drawback and they will not always leap fast enough to snag the best deals by getting their bid in first.
Geminis are curious and always on the move. They are often real estate investors who love to fix up a home and then move on to the next challenge. Their gambling streak can be a problem, though, as they may bite off more than they can chew. Geminis are safer with a reliable second opinion to make sure that they don’t buy a house that’s more money pit than fixer-upper.
CAnCers may have a hard exterior, but inside they are deeply romantic and driven by emotion. Cancers discuss buying very logically and methodically since they crave financial security, but deeply felt, sometimes contradictory, feelings will determine the outcome. Cancers need a patient Realtor or trusted second opinion to help them go with their guts and get the right house.
Leos are ruled by their hearts. Their positive attitude makes it easy for them to house hunt without despairing when the right place doesn’t come along immediately. Then, when the right one comes along, they will fall in love and stay that way. This devotion comes at a cost, though. If Leos feel like they can’t trust the other parties in a deal, they will walk away without ever looking back.
VirGos are often found working to help others. Their ingenuity and natural faith in the goodness of people makes them excellent buyers and sellers since they won’t give up easily. Their trusting nature can work against them when trouble comes, though. Not everyone deserves their good will and Virgos can use an expert opinion on when to say enough is enough and draw the line.
LibrAs know deep down that their ideal life will fall into place if they follow their instincts. When dealing with real estate, this sign needs time to think about a home and how it fits into this ideal life. They cannot be rushed and they need to make decisions for themselves without pressure from others. This can lead to fights when a Libra is house hunting with a less patient and contemplative spouse.
sCorpios are intuitive, forceful and powerful. In a real estate transaction, Scorpios will be in control of the situation. This love of control can be a problem when buying or selling a home, though. Scorpios are deeply emotional, and sometimes it’s hard for them to let go of their urge to win in order to fulfill their hearts’ desire. Scorpios may need a calming influence to keep them from arguing their way out of getting what they want.
sAGiTTArius has the optimistic attitude of a dream buyer or seller. They always believe things will work out for the best. The factor that can make a Sagittarius difficult, though, is their love of freedom. Sagittarius often struggles with the idea of settling down and committing. This sign needs to find just the right home in order to put down roots.
CApriCorns are ambitious, hardworking and always moving onwards and upwards towards better things. Aspiring towards greater heights of success may be their natural impulse, but ultimately Capricorns have a finish line within sight. All of that hard work goes towards meeting their emotional goals of stability and comfort. When it comes to real estate, they want their own private kingdom for enjoying the fruits of their labor.
AquAriAns follow the beat of their own drummer. This openness can be challenging for them as sellers. When their homes hit the market, they won’t always understand why their one-of-a-kind decorating touches aren’t a selling point. When buying they are easily turned-off by conflict and may retreat entirely. Aquarians need a non-judgmental second party to bring things together smoothly.
pisCes is the most sensitive sign in the zodiac. This can be both a plus and a minus in a real estate deal. Pisces will be sensitive to the needs of everyone else in the transaction, which is great when things get rocky. However, a Pisces needs someone to make sure that they don’t get pushed too far. It’s too easy for them to get steamrolled while trying to do the right thing.
Your Housing HoroscopeIs your Real Estate future foretold in the stars? Explore your domestic destiny and find out if your star sign is “SOLD”!
Did you know that one third of female Horoscope readers consult the stars before making major financial decisions?
Spring FeverBreathe Easy in an Allergy-Proof Home!
Spring flowers and fresh, green leaves on the trees are beautiful, but the allergens they bring with them ruin the season for a lot of people. Make your home a haven from allergies with these simple tips.
1. Pollen has peak hours. Most of it is distributed during the morning hours, so keeping
windows closed until mid-afternoon and limiting your time outside in the morning will greatly reduce your exposure.
2. It’s all over you. The stickiness of pollen means that it will be on your clothes when you
come inside. If you remove hats, shoes and jackets in a mudroom before coming further into the house, you can help limit the amount of allergens you spread around indoors. It will also stick to your hair, so washing it before bed can keep pollen off of your pillowcase and out of your sinuses.
3. HEPA can help. Spring cleaning and HEPA filters make all the difference. A vacuum with a
HEPA filter is invaluable in keeping allergy hot-spots like rugs, upholstered furniture and curtains pollen free. If you have central air, a HEPA filter that you change regularly can clean the air in your whole house for you. Stand alone filters can also be a help if you don’t have a central system.
4. Control your landscape. When you’re landscaping, make sure you don’t plant your own
enemies. Maple, birch and ash trees are all beautiful, but they also produce large amounts of pollen. Flowering cherries and dogwood trees offer good looks and fewer allergens. Many flowers are also problematic. Ask your allergist which plants you test positive for sensitivities to before you garden!
When you dust, do it in the right order for maximum efficiency. First, always take care of any vacuuming in the room before you dust. The exhaust stream from the vacuum will spread dust. Second, dust the room from top to bottom. Start with ceiling fans and tall furniture and end near the floor so you don’t knock dust onto freshly cleaned surfaces as you go.
Spring cleaning Tips:
Sleep tight in allergy-free bedding! Once the room is thoroughly cleaned, take this opportunity to cover the mattress in an allergen-proof cover. This keeps dust mites out of your mattress as well as providing a fully-washable layer between your mattress and any allergens in the air.
How many filters do you have? Do you need more? It’s time to replace or clean all of your filters. You may have quite a few. The furnace, AC units, vacuum cleaner, dehumidifier and air purifiers are all using filters to trap allergens for you. Take care of them and they’ll take care of you. While you’re at it, consider another layer of protection for your central heat and air vents. Individual filters for each vent can make a difference in your air quality.
Get everything picture perfect! Okay, everything seems clean, but did you remember the picture frames? Hit all the inner rims and the top with a microfiber cloth or Swiffer and you’re done!
I hope all of these tips will help you enjoy the gorgeous spring weather much more! If you’d like more household tips, tricks and natural solutions, make sure to check out my Blog! Visit JackieScuraSays.Blogspot.com for weekly updates!
Did you know that the Pollen Season is 4 Weeks Longer now than 10 years ago?
My House Isn’t a HomeWithout a Dog!
It’s a funny coincidence, but I wound up taking in a homeless dog because I was housing a homeless family. A few years ago, a local
charity came to me and asked if I could find a temporary place for a young woman and her three children who were about to wind up in a homeless shelter. Fortunately, I had an unrented apartment available and we were able to give her the time she needed to get on her feet and find her own place.
My new tenant became a fixture around the office, and when she heard about a Pug dog in need of a home, she knew she should talk to me. My son & daughter each have their own, much loved, Pugs and I have such a soft spot for them. I hadn’t owned my own dog in a while, so I was a devoted dog grandmother. I agreed to take in the dog temporarily and find him a new owner, but I bet you can guess how well that plan worked out! Gio moved in, stole my heart immediately and every day I’m grateful that I have this sweet, loving dog in my life.
Every animal lover I know feels like their house isn’t a home unless they’re sharing it with a pet. Adopting an older dog was absolutely the right thing for me. He’s house trained, obedient and so happy every day that he has a home and a family to love him. He shares his love with everyone he meets and is often found around my office, greeting his many friends.
I’d like to encourage you to make a home for an animal in need and to consider contributing to a rescue organization. There are so many local groups who are doing amazing work, and they save lives every day.Eleventh Hour Rescue is an organization devoted to rescuing dogs and cats from high-kill shelters in states that use gas to euthanize them. One of my co-workers adopted a cat from Eleventh Hour who had been rescued from animal hoarders in South Carolina. The situation was bad enough that the home was raided by animal control and CNN reported on the disgusting conditions there. Her cat was then placed in a kill shelter, and never would have made it if it weren’t for the devoted volunteers at Eleventh Hour bringing him to NJ. One of their Foster Parents then took him in and made sure he was happy, healthy and ready to be adopted.
This brings up another possible way to enjoy having a pet. If you can’t take in an animal forever, you can also consider becoming a Foster Parent. This role is an invaluable part of the animal rescue and adoption process. Fosters get animals out of shelter cages, which makes room for more rescues. Then they see that the pets are adoptable by getting them used to living in a home again. Many of these cats and dogs have never had a happy living situation and all they need is a little TLC to be the best pets in the world. Eleventh Hour Rescue covers all veterinary fees for animals in foster homes, so you can do a lot of good without spending a lot of money. Visit EHRDogs.org for Information on Adopting or Fostering.
Did you know that 8 - 12 Million Companion Animals enter shelters Every Year?
Help this cause while enjoying an evening of fun, food and drinks! Attend Eleventh Hour Rescue’s
Pours for Paws: A Taste of Morris County on May 15thTastings from up to 25 Fine Local Restaurants • Desserts
A Gourmet International Wine & Beer Tasting • Live Music Meadow Wood Manor in Randolph, NJ from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Tickets are only $85 Pre-Sale and $95 at the Door!I hope to see you there! It’ll be a memorable night! ~ Jackie
Community CornerSpotlight oN: How thE lAkE DRiVE SChool is Giving Deaf & Hard of Hearing Children a SoUND StARt!
Jackie’s
i just spent an unforgettable morning visiting the lake Drive School. I drive by almost every day, but until recently I didn’t know very much about their life changing mission. What I learned has touched my heart.
There is surprisingly little state funding for early intervention services for children with hearing loss. Only through the fundraising efforts of The Lake Drive Foundation can babies with hearing loss, regardless of their families’ ability to pay, have access to the services necessary to learn how to listen, speak, communicate and fulfill their potential.
Early intervention can make the difference between achieving academic skills no higher than a third or fourth grade level and graduating college. Additionally, creating a solid foundation for just one child with hearing loss can save schools approximately $420,000 in special education services, with a lifetime savings to the community of more than $1,000,000. Every dollar invested in these childrens’ lives saves $4 to $9 in state and federal funding.
More than 50% of the babies at Sound Start have multiple associated disabilities compounding the challenges of learning. Sound Start is the only program for hearing impaired children in Morris County that has the expertise to address their complex needs.
Sound Start toddlers graduate ready for pre-school in their home communities or at The Lake Drive Programs for Children Who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing. When students are mainstreamed in their home districts, the program’s success is evident. Because many of the students continue at Lake Drive, we have the unique opportunity to see the long term impact. while New Jersey’s high school dropout rate is 17%, and 50% of students with hearing loss do not receive high school diplomas, lake Drive’s graduation rate is 100%!
As a parent, I know what it feels like to have big dreams for my children and I hope you’ll all join me in helping the Lake Drive School make those dreams attainable for children with hearing loss, too. Together, we can make a better future for these children!
For the Babies gala 2013the lake Drive Foundation’s
Join me in helping out! i’ve commited myself as a Sponsor of:
thursday, May 16th, 2013, The Villa at Mountain Lakes6:00 to 7:30 - Cocktail Reception
7:30 to 10:00 - Dinner, Program & Live AuctionI hope to see you there for a fun evening benefitting a great cause.
Please consider sponsoring, buying a ticket or just donating!For More info Visit: www.lakedrivefoundation.org
Your complete outdoor solution! From one bush to a total re-landscape - if you need something done outside, we do it all! We have the knowledge, skill and equipment to get the job done right!
Ashley’s Tree Service and Land Improvements
(973) 579-643625 Irving Place
Newton, NJ 07860
Free Estimates • owner operatedFull Tree Service • Landscaping • Chipping Land Cleaning • excavating • Clean Ups
Custom Stone Work • Firewood • Fully Insured
25 Years of Experience!
“Ernie, without your tree service, my home wouldn’t have had a roof after Hurricane Sandy. Thank you for all you did to make sure my home was safe before the storm!” ~ Jackie
The Stickley Museum At Craftsman Farms in Parsippany Family, Fun & games: “My home” Saturday, May 11th from 1:00 - 4:00A day of fun & games for the whole family! Children of all ages are invited to explore and learn about homes of all kinds, including family homes, like the Stickley family’s Log House at Craftsman Farms, the homes of many kinds of animals, and the natural world, which is “home” to us all. Animal Experiences, an entertaining and educational live-animal program will be a special feature of this event, with families invited to reserve a spot at one of three 30-minute programs. There will also be a Storytime! www.StickleyMuseum.org
Trump National Golf Club in Bedminsterthe toby tyler golf invitational Tuesday, May 7th 11:00 Registration & Lunch, 1:00 Tee OffRichard (Toby) Tyler was a highly successful corporate leader who served on his local board of education and firmly believed in the importance of education for all children. Luke Tyler, his youngest son and Founder/CEO of Simplicity Title, is sponsoring the 1st annual Toby Tyler Golf Invitational benefiting the New Jersey Education Foundation Partnership. NJEFP is a nonprofit corporation which funds projects ranging from performing arts centers to writers in residence programs to innovative science and math programs to artificial turf fields. All ages welcome. Sign up to golf or just attend the Dinner afterwards. www.TobyTylerGolf.org
Jackie Says . . . SAVE THE DATE!
Downtown DenvilleCentennial parade Sunday, June 9th at 2:00Celebrate Denville’s 100th Birthday with a massive parade! Dignitaries, bands, floats and civic groups will be participating. The parade begins at Route 53 and Luger and ends at Gardner Field with free refreshments, music and entertainment for all! www.denvillecentennial.com
Downtown BoontonBoonton Farmer’s Market Saturday, June 8th 10:00 to 5:00It’s opening day for one of Morris County’s freshest spots! Drop by the Upper Plane Street parking lot for local produce, eggs, honey, jam, gourmet & baked goods!www.boontonmainstreet.org
Jackie Highly Recommends these Local Businesses! When You Call, They Come!
Each Office Independently Owned and Operated. Information Deemed Reliable, But Not Guaranteed. If Your Home is Already Listed With Another Realtor, Please Disregard This Notice
Jacqueline ScuraRE/MAx First Choice Realtors1160 Route 46 WestParsippany NJ 07054
PRSRT STDECRWSS
U.S. POSTAGE PAID
EDDM RETAILLocal Postal Customer
www.SAllEDoNNElANDSCApiNg.com
10% OFF OF ANy JOB
WHEN YOu MENTION THIS MAGAzINE!
Sal leDonne landscapingQuality Workmanship Since 1979
lAND$CApiNg FoR lE$$!Custom Planting Design
Lawn Care, Walls Walkways & Patios
Sod, Mulch & TopsoilHandyman to-Do ListsFREE Job Evaluation!
Call Sal Direct: 973-332-6465 or 1-800-289-1693
$299 Exterior Power Wash!
Prestige Power Wash
973-800-9952
Any size home. Vinyl or Aluminum Siding. Includes Chemical Wash!
Fully Insured