During our multiple-week cold snap, areas of the bay froze. We’ve finally seen daytime and overnight temperatures moderate, with highs above 40 degrees.
LANSCAPING MULCH is now part of the New Jersey Fire Code, which will regulate its placement in rental properties. Combustible mulch products, including wood-based mulch, will be prohibited within 18 inches of any building, structure, deck, porch, or balcony of any building constructed of combustible material. Non-combustible or fire resistant mulch is allowed. The new regulation applies to all rental properties, and local municipalities must enforce the code beginning April 15, 2025. Owner occupied one- and two-family homes are exempt, though the Borough of Avalon recommends that all property owners consider compliance, as the Avalon Volunteer Fire Department responds to multiple mulch fires each year, as wood-based mulch spontaneously combusts under the right conditions. Rental property owners should make their landscapers aware of this new requirement, if they are not already.
MARKET STATS: The number of units sold and the number of active listings increased slightly during December 2024 compared to a year earlier, while the number of new purchase contracts written remained the same. For a detailed look at the market see the latest Long & Foster Market Minute report: https://marketminute.
$50,000 IN ANNUAL RENTAL INCOME! Have you ever thought about using rental income to help pay for your vacation home? That’s a very simple strategy, and one that can help you maximize your return on a shore property. Our vacation rental market remains strong, with very solid demand. Depending upon what kind of property you ultimately purchase, generating $50,000, $100,000, or even $200,000 is possible. Curious? Let’s talk about the options and potential rental income of various properties!
LOOKING FOR A FUN VALENTINE ACTIVITY? Try a ride on the Valentine’s Express aboard vintage railcars that used to bring passengers to the Jersey Shore daily. Cape May Seashore Lines runs the trains from nearby Richland and Tuckahoe train stations. It’s fun for all ages, especially train fans! The trains run February 7th (from Richland) and February 8th (from Tuckahoe) and there are tickets available each day. For details, schedules, and tickets visit www.seashorelines.org/home
UPCOMING EVENTS:
- Take Your Child to the Library Day. Fun, crafts, and a free book for children 12 & under. Avalon Free Public Library, Saturday, February 1st, 10am to 4pm.
- Winter Wonderland & Ice Skating: Synthetic ice-skating rink, fire pits & heaters, food & cocktails, and music. Icona Avalon, Fridays 5pm to 8pm, Saturdays 12pm to 8pm, Sundays 12pm to 6pm, through February 2nd.
- Cape May Seashore Lines Valentine’s Express. Ride aboard a vintage train with your sweetheart! CMSL Tuckahoe Station and Richland Station, Friday, February 7th & Saturday, February 8th. For tickets and info visit www.seashorelines.org/home
- Friend in Need Super Bash XXII. The 22nd Anniversary of the Super Bowl fundraiser that supports those in need in Cape May County. The Princeton Bar & Grill, Sunday, February 9th, 4pm.
- Organizing Your Digital Photographs. 39th Street Tennis Building, Thursday, February 13th, 6pm.
- Atlantic City Boat Show. Dozens of boats, boat dealers, vendors, displays, and seminars. Atlantic City Convention Center, February 26th to March 2nd. For tickets and info visit www.ACBoatShow.com
- Stone Harbor Shiver Polar Plunge. March 15th, 11am-3pm. More details soon.
- Roller Skating at Cape May Convention Hall. Roller skating with available rentals. Cape May Convention Hall, Fridays 4-6pm and 6:30-8:30pm; Saturdays & Sundays 1-3pm and 4-6pm, through March 16th.
10305 First Avenue, Stone Harbor, $390,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 250205
274 52nd Street, Avalon, $2,500,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 250199
2308 Ocean Drive, Avalon, $3,450,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 250192
4765 Fourth Avenue, Avalon, $5,200,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 250201
4599 5th Avenue, Avalon, $5,995,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 250154
Under Contract:
351 96th Street, 413, Stone Harbor, $1,150,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 243608
287 14th Street, 3, Avalon, $1,200,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 250195
1116 Stone Harbor Boulevard, 204, Stone Harbor Manor, $1,785,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 242978
Properties Sold:
274 64th Street, Avalon, $4,575,000, SOLD MLS#: 242113
