Dear Future Homeowners,
As newlyweds we were fortunate to find this gracious, sunny colonial with wonderful flow, new windows, two-zone central air conditioning, neutral palette and hardwood floors throughout. Over the past eleven years as our family and fortunes have expanded, we’ve lovingly and thoughtfully improved this home.
Immediately we added easy access to the backyard with French doors and a spacious deck. The materials were carefully selected for their low maintenance and high endurance. The white vinyl railing never fades and the Epoch floor won’t splinter or get hot, so bare feet are welcome. Spring, summer and fall, it’s the equivalent of an additional room. The balcony height and mature landscaping lend the feeling of a giant tree house.
Aside from the fact that the renovated kitchen has many custom touches it’s also perfect for entertaining. Since completing it we’ve hosted countless holiday meals, birthday parties, book clubs and family gatherings. The large island and open floor plan make it ideal for numerous guests.
Another great feature of this house is the family room, or as we like to call it, the “sunroom.” Always inviting with an abundance of natural light, it’s one of the largest on this street. It’s separation from the bedrooms prevent light sleepers from being awakened by the television.
We’re moving to Pennsylvania to be near family, but are heartbroken to leave this neighborhood. Upon arrival we were welcomed with hearty handshakes and BBQ invitations. The residents are friendly, generous and always willing to lend a hand (or tool, or cup of sugar). One gentleman voluntarily mowed our lawn while we were on vacation. Another neighbor brings us homemade pasta sauce each time she makes a batch. Several parents help us by carpooling, and our kids are welcome to wander into any of the nearby homes for play dates, meals or impromptu sleepovers. Date night is a treat since our children love the teenaged babysitters here. Last but not least, the annual block parties are not to be missed.
Although we hear great things about the town pool, we’ve never been because the lovely woman next door gave us unlimited access to her pool. The master gardeners behind us gifted us the tree to the left of the swing set when theirs had to be removed, and donated several plants for our garden.
Our daughter raves about her days at Hazel Elementary. It’s the smallest in the district, and therefore has a wonderful sense of community. The principal learned our names quickly (even my son who isn’t a student) and signs personal comments on each child’s report card. The staff are equally caring and the PTA works tirelessly to enrich the experience for students and families alike.
The proximity to Manhattan can’t be beat, and we’re treated to breathtaking skyline views all over town, not to mention from our office and master bedroom. Commuting is a breeze with the NYC bus stop on the corner, complimentary shuttle to the train, and easy drive to the PATH station. Driving in on the weekends is often under thirty minutes. Air travel is also convenient with Newark Liberty International Airport just twenty minutes away.
There is so much to do right here in our backyard, with Turtle Back Zoo, Codey Arena (skating rink), and South Mountain Reservation down the street. There are wonderful playgrounds and golf courses galore. Multiple performing arts centers and local theaters offer Broadway talent at discount prices. And once you’ve enjoyed cocktails while sitting in leather recliners during a movie at the AMC Dine-In Theater, you won’t attend screenings anywhere else!
We sincerely hope that the next family that lives here loves this house and community as much as we have.
Best Regards,
The Current Homeowners
TOP HOME IMPROVEMENTS:
Added environmentally safe attic insulation and ladder jacket (2012)
Upgraded powder room with new vanity, granite counter and brushed nickel hardware (2012)
Fully renovated guest bathroom includes new vanity with granite counters, brushed nickel hardware, water conserving commode, new tub, tile, lighting, fan and heater, beadboard walls and crown molding (2011)
Upgraded master bath with new shower door, replaced the drain pan and repaired with new white tiles, added crown molding and light/fan combo (2011)
Upgraded finished basement with new flooring, painted walls and pedestal sink in bathroom (2011)
Remodeled family room with new flooring and sheet rock, twelve energy efficient windows, new gas heater and baseboards, custom built-in wall unit and dentil molding (2010)
New roof and leaf guard gutters installed (2009)
Replaced walkway and front porch with attractive paver stones (2009)
Complete kitchen remodel included opening dining room wall, adding large island and extra cabinets, blue pearl granite counters with under-mount stainless steel sink, blue marble accent tile, recessed and under-cabinet lighting, dentil molding, new flooring and stainless steel appliances (2008)
Refinished hardwood floors throughout (2005)
Installed round window to brighten entry way (2004)
Replaced hot water heater (2004)
Replaced furnace (2003)
Replaced central air conditioning unit (2003)
Added custom deck along with french door access (2003)