Bill Leahy — Page 2

Avalon and Stone Harbor Weekly Update May 15, 2025

May 13, 2025 By Bill Leahy

What a view! Thanks to Scott Zimmerman for sending this gorgeous aerial view including parts of Avalon and Stone Harbor. Do you see your favorite beach?

THEY’RE ALL HERE! That’s right—whales, dolphins, ospreys, egrets, and seagulls! Lawns are green, flowers are blooming, and the island is full of life everywhere you turn. All we need is you!

EXCITING OPENINGS: Construction is still ongoing, but two long awaited island projects will conclude soon. In Avalon, work on the Bay Park Marina has been underway since last fall, and it’s expected to be opened by Memorial Day Weekend. The most recent update from the borough indicated that the ramp and stairs leading to the dockmaster’s building were completed last week. Boaters who keep their boats at the marina will be notified when they can return to their slips. In Stone Harbor, the 96^th Street Playground will be ready for the summer season according to the most recent borough update. Work has been underway for months, and much of the playground has already taken shape.

AVALON HISTORY CENTER’S PHOTO CONTEST is now open! Non-professional photographers are invited to submit up to four of their works in the following categories: Portrait and Personality; Nature; Scenic; Avalon; Children’s category (under 12). If you’ve captured a showstopper, why not submit it for consideration? All entries are due by May 24th. For rules and an entry form, visit https://www.avalonfreelibrary.org/sites/default/files/2025-02/AHS%20Photography%20Contest%20Entry%20Form%20and%20Guidelines%202025.pdf

ART & AUTHORS ON DUNE takes place Saturday, May 31st, along Dune Drive. View the work of skilled artists and connect with talented authors. Artists will be showcasing their work, and authors will be signing and selling copies of their books. Long & Foster friend and artist Lisa Cunningham will be at the event. Visit Lisa’s site and view her work here: https://www.lisacunninghamfineart.com/works View the lineup of artists and authors here: https://www.visitavalonnj.com/artauthorsondune

HAVEN’T BOOKED THAT SUMMER VACATION YET? We’ve got some great options for you! Visit our website and browse through hundreds of options—one of which is surely perfect for you! https://www.lfvacations.com/vacation-rentals/results/?searchform=1&Destination=Avalon&State=NJ

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Cape May County Municipal Utilities Authority Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day. 650 Shunpike Road, Burleigh, Saturday, May 17, 2025, 8am to 11am. For details visit https://www.cmcmua.com/home/news/household-hazardous-waste-collection-day-may-17th-2025-800-am-1100-am
Stone Harbor Community Yard Sale, 94th Street lot at Second Avenue, Saturday, May 17th, 8am to 1:30pm. $20 per space/bring your own table. To reserve a space, call 609-368-0683.
A Night of Legendary Wines: The Kermit Lynch Wine Dinner. The Washington Inn, Sunday, May 18th, 6pm to 9pm. For details or to reserve your seat, visit https://www.washingtoninn.com/upcoming-events/maywinedinner-6mxe9-nsb6h
Stone Harbor Beach Opening Ceremony & Color Fun Run. Saturday, May 24th, 10am. (Registration for Fun Run begins at 9am.)
Turtle Trot 5k sponsored by the Stone Harbor Chamber of Commerce, Sunday, May 25th, 8am-10am. Visit www.StoneHarborTurtleTrot.com for details.
Somm’s Table: Iconic Espana. Four wines paired with four canapes created by Executive Chef Vincent Celeste. Washington Inn & Wine Bar, Sunday, May 25th, 3pm to 4:30pm. For details or reservations visit https://www.washingtoninn.com/upcoming-events/somms-table-espana-tk85t-tf96g
Art & Authors on Dune. Explore fine art and connect with talented authors along Dune Drive. Saturday, May 31st, 9am to 3pm. For a list of artists and authors visit https://www.visitavalonnj.com/artauthorsondune
Cape May Restaurant Week, June 1st to June 8th. For details and participating restaurants, visit https://www.cmrestaurantweek.com/
Stone Harbor Restaurant Week, June 8th to 15th.
Kid’s Day at the Stone Harbor Museum. June 11th, 9am to 12pm.
Local Thursday at the Wine Bar. Rotating bar plate specials, 2-for-1 oysters, and 25% off wines by the bottle. The Washington Inn, Thursdays, 4pm to 8pm, through mid-June.

New Listings:

260 83rd Street, Unit 1, Stone Harbor, $1,800,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 251386

293 24th Street, 293, Avalon, $2,575,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 251351

297 24th Street, 297, Avalon, $2,575,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 251352

3149 First Avenue, Avalon, $2,895,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 251390

7423 Ocean Drive, Avalon, $3,200,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 251414

108 27th Street, Avalon, $3,295,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 251378

9903 2nd Avenue, Stone Harbor, $3,895,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 251387

25 W 32nd Street, Avalon, $6,249,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 251385

102 102nd Street, Stone Harbor, $8,995,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 251369

Under Contract:

10515 Corinthian Drive, Stone Harbor, $1,475,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 251261

267 35th Street, West, Avalon, $1,999,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 250517

46 W 31st Street, Avalon, $3,395,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 251268

273 52nd Street, Avalon, $5,389,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 250541

160 112th Street, Stone Harbor, $9,985,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 251147

Properties Sold:

2927 Dune Drive, 1, Avalon, $2,200,000, SOLD MLS#: 243439

10033 Corinthian Drive, Stone Harbor, $2,000,000, SOLD MLS#: 240026

Avalon and Stone Harbor Weekly Update May 8, 2025

May 6, 2025 By Bill Leahy

WHAT’S A BLUEWAY, AND WHERE CAN YOU FIND ONE? A Blueway is a route on a waterway for recreational purposes. The Wetlands Institute has created the Jersey Island Blueway: A Paddler’s Guide to Cape May County’s Backbays, and you can find it here: https://wetlandsinstitute.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/Jersey-Island-Blueway-map.pdf The map shows more than a dozen routes ideal for kayaking or paddling the area’s back bay waters. Every one of these routes is quite scenic, easy to reach, and likely to reveal a variety of wildlife. Study the Jersey Island Blueway map before your next kayak outing!

BUILD WEALTH. (AND GO TO THE BEACH!) Owning a shore property over a long period of time has proven to be an effective way to build wealth for you and your family. Think about shore property values thirty or more years ago, and compare them to today’s values, and it becomes obvious. Perhaps the best part is the other benefit—time spent with your family, visiting the beach, boating, enjoying everything that the island and surrounding area have to offer—all while creating priceless family memories. If it’s time for your own shore property, call or email me, so I can help you find the perfect shore property for you!

BACK BAY FLUKE FISHING is underway aboard the Avalon Lady! Sailing several trips per week from the Avalon Sport Fishing Center at 1400 Ocean Drive. Get a jump on your summer fishing! Visit www.MissAvalon.com for the schedule and rates.

HISTORY, REDISCOVERED: The Cape May Canal and the Cape May-Lewes Ferry terminal were both temporarily closed early last week after unexploded ordinance was found on nearby Higbee Beach. A passerby discovered a 3-inch shell washed up on the beach and reported it to Lower Township Police, who eventually summoned the Atlantic City Bomb Squad to disable the shell. One ferry vessel had to be turned back to Lewes, Delaware during the shutdown. Cape May County was witness to quite a bit of World War II operations, and occasionally unexploded ordinance is found in the area.

THAT FEELING YOU GET… You know that feeling, as you’re driving toward the island, and cross over the bridge, and get the first breath of salt air in your lungs. The excitement…the relaxation…the stress melting away. Plan your 2025 summer vacation now, if you haven’t already. Visit www.LFVacations.com then select Avalon, Stone Harbor, or Sea Isle City, then find your vacation retreat!

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Ladies Night at Seashore ACE! 20% off most first floor items; appetizers from local restaurants, wine, mocktails; mini massages; meet podcaster Sara Kelly; design consultations; gift bags for the first 50 customers, door prizes every 15 minutes. Friday, May 9th, 5pm to 7pm.
Avalon Town Wide Yard Sale, sponsored by the Avalon Garden Club. Saturday, May 10th, 8am to 3pm, rain or shine. For info or to download an application, visit www.avalongardenclub.org
Avalon Paper Shredding Day, Avalon Public Works Building, Saturday, May 10th, 9am to 2pm.
Mother’s Day Brunch, The Reeds at Shelter Haven, Sunday, May 11th, 10:30am to 3:30pm. For reservations visit https://reedsatshelterhaven.com/reeds-events/mothers-day-brunch/
Mother’s Day Brunch, ICONA Avalon, Saturday, May 11th, 11am to 3pm. For reservations visit https://www.icona.com/events/mothers-day-in-avalon/
Mother’s Day Brunch. Washington Inn & Wine Bar, Sunday, May 11th, 11am to 2pm. For reservations visit https://www.washingtoninn.com/upcoming-events/easter-sunday-brunch-t3fx7
Bulk Trash Pickup, Stone Harbor, Monday, May 12th. Place items curbside up to 72 hours in advance.
Bulk Trash Pickup, Avalon. Place items curbside through May 11th, for pickup to begin at 7am on May 12th.
Cape May County Municipal Utilities Authority Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day. 650 Shunpike Road, Burleigh, Saturday, May 17, 2025, 8am to 11am. For details visit https://www.cmcmua.com/home/news/household-hazardous-waste-collection-day-may-17th-2025-800-am-1100-am
Stone Harbor Community Yard Sale, 94th Street lot at Second Avenue, Saturday, May 17th, 8am to 1:30pm. $20 per space/bring your own table. To reserve a space, call 609-368-0683.
A Night of Legendary Wines: The Kermit Lynch Wine Dinner. The Washington Inn, Sunday, May 18th, 6pm to 9pm. For details or to reserve your seat, visit https://www.washingtoninn.com/upcoming-events/maywinedinner-6mxe9-nsb6h
Stone Harbor Beach Opening Ceremony & Color Fun Run. Saturday, May 24th, 10am. (Registration for Fun Run begins at 9am.)
Turtle Trot 5k sponsored by the Stone Harbor Chamber of Commerce, Sunday, May 25th, 8am-10am. Visit www.StoneHarborTurtleTrot.com for details.
Cape May Restaurant Week, June 1st to June 8th. For details and participating restaurants, visit https://www.cmrestaurantweek.com/
Stone Harbor Restaurant Week, June 8th to 15th.
Local Thursday at the Wine Bar. Rotating bar plate specials, 2-for-1 oysters, and 25% off wines by the bottle. The Washington Inn, Thursdays, 4pm to 8pm, through mid-June.

New Listings:

11 Leonard’s Lane, Avalon Manor, $1,750,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 251316

255 117th Street, 2, Stone Harbor, $2,099,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 251298

46 W 31st Street, Avalon, $3,395,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 251268

168 98th Street, Stone Harbor, $3,475,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 251263

10017 Corinthian Drive, Stone Harbor, $5,595,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 251304

83 E 25th Street, Avalon, $12,995,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 251319

Under Contract:

4025 4th Avenue, Top Floor, Avalon, $1,199,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 243345

74 W 8th Street, Avalon, $2,775,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 251273

73 W 25th Street, Avalon, $3,850,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 250791

158 38th Street, Avalon, $6,295,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 251058

Properties Sold:

66 E 20th Street, #105, Avalon, $1,450,000, SOLD MLS#: 250410

9102 3rd Avenue, Stone Harbor, $1,750,000, SOLD MLS#: 250494

302 84th Street, South, Stone Harbor, $2,275,000, SOLD MLS#: 250256

273 60th Street, Avalon, $2,600,000, SOLD MLS#: 243587

397 20th Street, 397, Avalon, $3,995,000, SOLD MLS#: 243612

153 76th Street, Avalon, $5,100,000, SOLD MLS#: 250288

Avalon and Stone Harbor Weekly Update May 1, 2025

April 30, 2025 By Bill Leahy

Sunset means dinner time for this egret, wading in a shallow pond, searching for food. Egrets, laughing gulls, ospreys, and dolphins have all been seen recently!

THIRD AVENUE PAVING! After several months of utility work, the repaving of Third Avenue in Stone Harbor’s business district is finally underway! Good bye, potholes, hello smooth asphalt!

SOUNDS OF SPRING! Stand on nearly any street corner and you’re sure to hear the “sounds of spring” in Avalon and Stone Harbor: the sound of a nail gun installing shingles on a new roof; the drone of a lawnmower mowing a green lawn; back-up beepers in areas where roadwork is being performed; the cackle of laughing gulls flying overhead. Spring is officially here!

OVER 100 BOTTLENOSE DOLPHINS in a feeding frenzy were seen off Hereford Inlet this past weekend by Cape May Whale Watcher. As the dolphins circled to surround a school of fish and feed, excited gasps could be heard from those lucky enough to be on board! If you’ve never taken a dolphin watching cruise, it’s great fun! For details, visit https://capemaywhalewatcher.com/

JUST OVER 3 WEEKS TO MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND! But there’s still time…if you haven’t made your summer vacation plans, visit here: https://www.lfvacations.com/vacation-rentals/results/?searchform=1&State=NJ&Destination=Avalon And if you’d like to make it permanent, it’s still possible to purchase a shore property and enjoy the rest of the summer—and the rest of your life—in your new vacation home! Call or email me today!

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Spring Sidewalk Sale Weekend, Stone Harbor, May 3rd & 4th.
Bulk Trash Pickup, Avalon. Place items curbside from May 2nd through May 11th, for pickup to begin at 7am on May 12th.
Ginworld Pop-Up at the Wine Bar. A special martini-centric pop-up hosted by The Gin Room. Washington Inn Wine Bar, Friday May 2nd, 4pm to 10pm.
Avalon Garden Club Plant and Bake Sale. Avalon Garden Club Greenhouse, 39th Street between Dune and Ocean Drives, Saturday, May 3rd, 8am to 3pm (Plant & Bake Sale), and Sunday, May 4th, 10am to 1pm (Plant Sale).
Stone Harbor Spring Sidewalk Sale Weekend, Saturday & Sunday, May 3rd & 4th.
Kentucky Derby Watch Party. Southern charm, festive sips, flavorful bites. The Reeds at Shelter Haven, Saturday, May 3rd. Doors open at 5:30pm.
Green Eggs & Sand. Horseshoe crab workshop, the Wetlands Institute. Saturday & Sunday, May 3rd & 4th. For info or to register visit https://wetlandsinstitute.org/green-eggs-and-sand/
Ladies Night at Seashore ACE! 20% off most first floor items; appetizers from local restaurants, wine, mocktails; mini massages; meet podcaster Sara Kelly; design consultations; gift bags for the first 50 customers, door prizes every 15 minutes. Friday, May 9th, 5pm to 7pm.
Avalon Townwide Yardsale, sponsored by the Avalon Garden Club. Saturday, May 10th, 8am to 3pm, rain or shine. For info or to download an application, visit www.avalongardenclub.org
Avalon Paper Shredding Day, Avalon Public Works Building, Saturday, May 10th, 9am to 2pm.
Mother’s Day Brunch, ICONA Avalon, Saturday, May 11th, 11am to 3pm. For reservations visit https://www.icona.com/events/mothers-day-in-avalon/
Mother’s Day Brunch. Washington Inn & Wine Bar, Sunday, May 11th, 11am to 2pm. For reservations visit https://www.washingtoninn.com/upcoming-events/easter-sunday-brunch-t3fx7
Bulk Trash Pickup, Stone Harbor, Monday, May 12th. Place items curbside up to 72 hours in advance.
Cape May County Municipal Utilities Authority Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day. 650 Shunpike Road, Burleigh, Saturday, May 17, 2025, 8am to 11am. For details visit https://www.cmcmua.com/home/news/household-hazardous-waste-collection-day-may-17th-2025-800-am-1100-am
Cape May Restaurant Week, June 1st to June 8th. For details and participating restaurants, visit https://www.cmrestaurantweek.com/
Stone Harbor Restaurant Week, June 8th to 15th.
Local Thursday at the Wine Bar. Rotating bar plate specials, 2-for-1 oysters, and 25% off wines by the bottle. The Washington Inn, Thursdays, 4pm to 8pm, through mid-June.

New Listings:

10515 Corinthian Drive, Stone Harbor, $1,475,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 251261

2 2nd Drive, Stone Harbor Manor, $4,750,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 251210

Under Contract:

235 96th Street, Stone Harbor, $1,249,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 250763

211 23rd Street, Avalon, $1,699,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 250935

4599 5th Avenue, Avalon, $5,695,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 250154

Properties Sold:

2010 7th Avenue, 2010, Avalon, $1,100,000, SOLD MLS#: 242904

263 103rd Street, East, Stone Harbor, $1,900,000, SOLD MLS#: 250425

262 55th Street, Avalon, $3,599,000, SOLD MLS#: 250370

276 103rd Street, Stone Harbor, $4,100,000, SOLD MLS#: 250265

270 92nd Street, Stone Harbor, $4,015,000, SOLD MLS#: 241535

93 W 13th Street, Avalon, $4,300,000, SOLD MLS#: 242091

Avalon and Stone Harbor Weekly Update April 24, 2025

April 23, 2025 By Bill Leahy

April showers are already paying off! The island is coming to life: blooming flowers, budding trees, green lawns, and more!

WHAT A GREAT WEEKEND! We were blessed with warm weather and sunshine over the Easter weekend, which brought great crowds to local shops and restaurants, and visitors to the beach. Everywhere you turned you could hear the island coming back to life after a chilly winter!

IT’S TIME TO PLANT DUNE GRASS! Help grow and protect our dunes, so they can protect us! Avalon’s spring dune grass planting event takes place this weekend, and volunteers are needed. Please check my events list below for details, and to RSVP. Your help is greatly appreciated!

FREE TEN-MINUTE PARKING for Stone Harbor’s post office is back! If you’re conducting business in the post office, grab one of the free spots for your visit!

MESSAGE IN A BOTTLE! Did you ever write a message, place it in a bottle, and toss it into the ocean? Have you ever found a message in a bottle? Facebook user Ken reported just that—he recently found a message in a bottle on the 93rd Street beach in Sea Isle City, and it came all the way from…Avalon! After Ken posted photos of the bottle and the message in “All Things Avalon,” Facebook user Stephen saw it and confirmed “this was our bottle.” It seems Stephen’s kids wrote the note and placed it into the bottle, which was dispatched from Avalon’s beach on November 30, 2024!

STABILIZE YOUR PORTFOLIO: Buy a house at the beach! Call or email me so we can discuss your needs, and find you the perfect shore retreat!

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Cape May County Zoo Eggstravaganzoo. Easter Bunny I Spy Hunt, Easter Scavenger Hunt, HOPstacle Course, and more. Cape May County Zoo, through Friday, April 25th.
Shafer Wine Dinner at The Reeds. Fine wine and gourmet dining come together in this four-course event! Thursday, April 24th, 6pm. For reservations visit https://reedsatshelterhaven.com/reeds-events/shafer-wine-dinner/
Avalon Garden Club and Environmental Commission Arbor Day event. 39th Street Tennis Building, Friday, April 25th, 10:30am.
Jazz Night at Spiaggetta. Live jazz from 6:30pm to 9:30pm, Friday, April 25th. No cover, BYOB, reserve on OpenTable.
Earth Day Celebration at the Cape May County Park & Zoo. Entertainment, scavenger hunt, educational exhibits, food trucks, bounce houses. Saturday, April 26th, 10am to 3pm.
Spring Dune Grass Planting. Volunteers are needed to help plant dune grass in Avalon! Volunteers should report to Avalon Community Hall at 8:30am for a brief planting demonstration. After the planting is completed there will be bagged lunches available at Avalon Community Hall. Please sign up for Dune Grass Planting by calling Chuck McDonnell at 609-967-3066 or Sue Keen at 609-967-5924. Saturday, April 26th, 8:30am. Rain date Sunday, April 27th.
Run Wild for the Cape May County Zoo. 5K Run and 1 Mile Walk, presented by Sturdy Savings Bank. Sunday, April 27th, 8am. For info and registration, visit https://runsignup.com/Race/NJ/CapeMayCourtHouse/RunWildfortheCapeMayCountyZoo
Vins de France Wine Dinner at Washington Inn & Wine Bar. Explore French wines paired with expertly crafted meals in an educational and engaging setting. Sunday, April 27th, 5pm. Info and reservations here: https://www.washingtoninn.com/upcoming-events/aprilwinedinner-6mxe9-253ew
Spring Sidewalk Sale Weekend, Stone Harbor, May 3rd & 4th.
Bulk Trash Pickup, Avalon. Place items curbside from May 2nd through May 11th, for pickup to begin at 7am on May 12th.
Avalon Garden Club Plant and Bake Sale. Avalon Garden Club Greenhouse, 39th Street between Dune and Ocean Drives, Saturday, May 3rd, 8am to 3pm (Plant & Bake Sale), and Sunday, May 4th, 10am to 1pm (Plant Sale).
Stone Harbor Spring Sidewalk Sale Weekend, Saturday & Sunday, May 3rd & 4th.
Green Eggs & Sand. Horseshoe crab workshop, the Wetlands Institute. Saturday & Sunday, May 3rd & 4th. For info or to register visit https://wetlandsinstitute.org/green-eggs-and-sand/
Ladies Night at Seashore ACE! 20% off most first floor items; appetizers from local restaurants, wine, mocktails; mini massages; meet podcaster Sara Kelly; design consultations; gift bags for the first 50 customers, door prizes every 15 minutes. Friday, May 9th, 5pm to 7pm.
Avalon Paper Shredding Day, Avalon Public Works Building, Saturday, May 10th, 9am to 2pm.
Bulk Trash Pickup, Stone Harbor, Monday, May 12th.
Cape May County Municipal Utilities Authority Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day. 650 Shunpike Road, Burleigh, Saturday, May 17, 2025, 8am to 11am. For details visit https://www.cmcmua.com/home/news/household-hazardous-waste-collection-day-may-17th-2025-800-am-1100-am
Local Thursday at the Wine Bar. Local Thursdays with live music, bar plate specials, and 25% off wines by the bottle. The Washington Inn, Thursdays, 4pm to 8pm, through mid-June.

New Listings:

181 7th Street, Avalon, $2,795,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 251165

694 22nd Street, 694, Avalon, $3,695,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 251164

178 37th Street, Avalon, $3,795,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 251150

5961 Ocean Drive, Avalon, $4,395,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 251185

242 83rd Street, Stone Harbor, $5,595,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 251171

4120 Bayberry Road, Avalon, $5,995,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 251120

160 112th Street, Stone Harbor, $9,985,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 251147

Under Contract:

10700 3rd Avenue, North, Stone Harbor, $3,695,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 250408

225 7th Street, Avalon, $4,799,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 242332

115 117th Street, Stone Harbor, $5,995,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 241813

Properties Sold:

7888 Dune Drive, 117, Avalon, $285,000, SOLD MLS#: 250395

7888 Dune Drive, 101, Avalon, $535,000, SOLD MLS#: 250369

274 52nd Street, Avalon, $2,555,266, SOLD MLS#: 250199

55 W 29th Street, Avalon, $3,175,000, SOLD MLS#: 243219

280 36th Street, Avalon, $4,395,000, SOLD MLS#: 243411

Avalon and Stone Harbor Weekly Update April 17, 2025

April 16, 2025 By Bill Leahy

MARKET STATS: During the month of March 2025, the number of units sold rose slightly versus the month before, but was down slightly compared to March 2024. The number of active listings and the median sale price both increased slightly versus last year, while the average number of “days on market” was down slightly. For a detailed look at the market, see the latest Long & Foster Market Minute Report: https://marketminute.longandfoster.com/Market-Minute/NJ/Avalon-Stone-Harbor.htm

“WHAT’S OPEN?” I’m often asked that question in the off season. The answer, I’m happy to report, is “a lot!” Most restaurants, shops, and other businesses are open and ready in advance of the summer season. If you’ve got a chance to visit now, don’t hesitate—there’s plenty to do and enjoy right now on Seven Mile Island, without the crowds or lines found in the summer time!

Here are just a handful of examples of local restaurants and stores that you’ll find open this weekend: The Diving Horse; The Preppy Palm; Hollywood Bikes; Nemo’s Pizza of Stone Harbor; Avalon Hardware; The Spot; The Rock n’ Chair; The Reeds at Shelter Haven; Il Posto Ristorante; Fred’s Tavern; Avalon Flooring; Spa Avalon; Long & Foster Real Estate; Polpo Ristorante; Seashore ACE; Avalon Brew Pub; Spiaggetta; Ristorante Luciano. And there are plenty more!

MORTGAGE RATES have drifted downward over the past few months. The average 30-year fixed rate mortgage is about 6.62%, down from more than 7% in January. The average 15-year fixed rate is now 5.82%, down from 6.27% in January. Two thoughts: first, that why you often hear the advice “marry the house, and date the rate.” Second, if you didn’t heed that advice before, and have been waiting for rates to drop, this may be a great time to go ahead and make your shore home purchase.

RENTAL PROPERTIES: It’s time for spring prep! If you’re visiting your rental property for the first time in a while, step back and take a look, pen and pad in hand. Chances are you’ll spot a few things that could use improvement. Often, inexpensive additions, like new televisions, ceiling fans, a new piece of furniture, or a freshly painted room, can make a big difference in comfort, both for you and for your tenants. If you’d like assistance, and a list of recommendations specific to your rental property, please let me know. I’m happy to visit and evaluate your property, and provide you recommendations based on my years of experience.

BETTER THAN STOCKS? Recent stock market volatility has many worrying about their 401(k) and brokerage accounts. That raises a common discussion point: real estate tends to be far less volatile that stocks and other liquid assets, while still capable of delivering investment returns, plus in the case of a shore property, other, intangible benefits. Some will say there’s no way to measure the value of time spent together at the family beach house, making family memories, and to them, we say, “You’re right! It’s priceless!” If you’d like to discuss acquiring, your own shore property, let’s talk. Call or email me anytime.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Local Thursday Kick Off at the Wine Bar. Kick off Local Thursdays with live music, bar plate specials, and 25% off wines by the bottle. The Washington Inn, begins Thursday, April 17th, 4pm to 8pm, and runs Thursdays through mid-June.
Cape May County Zoo Eggstravaganzoo. Easter Bunny I Spy Hunt, Easter Scavenger Hunt, HOPstacle Course, and more. Cape May County Zoo, Friday, April 18th until Friday, April 25th.
Avalon’s Bunny Hop. Visit with the Easter Bunny, face painting, and more. Five special gold eggs will be hidden, with grand prizes for lucky children who find them. Veteran’s Plaza, Saturday, April 19th, 11am to 2pm.
Easter Bunny Express. Ride aboard the Cape May Seashore Lines train with the Easter Bunny. Saturday, through Saturday, April 19th. For schedules, info, and tickets, visit https://www.seashorelines.org/easter-bunny-express
Easter Brunch at ICONA Avalon. Sunday, April 20th, 10am to 2pm. Make a reservation here: https://www.sevenrooms.com/experiences/avalonbrewpub/easter-brunch-10230468263
Easter Brunch at The Reeds at Shelter Haven. Buffet brunch by the bay. Sunday, April 20th, 10:30am to 3:30pm. For reservations visit https://reedsatshelterhaven.com/reeds-events/easter-brunch/
Easter Brunch & Dinner at the Washington Inn. Easter Brunch from 11am to 2pm; Easter Dinner from 4pm to 7pm, Sunday, April 20th. $56 for adults; $32 for children. For a menu and reservations, visit https://www.washingtoninn.com/upcoming-events/easter-sunday-brunch
Shafer Wine Dinner at The Reeds. Fine wine and gourmet dining come together in this four-course event! Thursday, April 24th, 6pm. For reservations visit https://reedsatshelterhaven.com/reeds-events/shafer-wine-dinner/
Jazz Night at Spiaggetta. Live jazz from 6:30pm to 9:30pm, Friday, April 25th. No cover, BYOB, reserve on OpenTable.
Spring Dune Grass Planting. Volunteers are needed to help plant dune grass in Avalon! Volunteers should report to Avalon Community Hall at 8:30am for a brief planting demonstration. After the planting is completed there will be bagged lunches available at Avalon Community Hall. Please sign up for Dune Grass Planting by calling Chuck McDonnell at 609-967-3066 or Sue Keen at 609-967-5924. Saturday, April 26th, 8:30am. Rain date Sunday, April 27th.
Run Wild for the Cape May County Zoo. 5K Run and 1 Mile Walk, presented by Sturdy Savings Bank. Sunday, April 27th, 8am. For info and registration, visit https://runsignup.com/Race/NJ/CapeMayCourtHouse/RunWildfortheCapeMayCountyZoo
Vins de France Wine Dinner at Washington Inn & Wine Bar. Explore French wines paired with expertly crafted meals in an educational and engaging setting. Sunday, April 27th, 5pm. Info and reservations here: https://www.washingtoninn.com/upcoming-events/aprilwinedinner-6mxe9-253ew
Spring Sidewalk Sale Weekend, Stone Harbor, Saturday & Sunday, May 3rd & 4th.
Bulk Trash Pickup, Avalon. Place items curbside from May 2nd through May 11th, for pickup to begin at 7am on May 12th.
Avalon Garden Club Plant and Bake Sale. Avalon Garden Club Greenhouse, 39th Street between Dune and Ocean Drives, Saturday, May 3rd, 8am to 3pm (Plant & Bake Sale), and Sunday, May 4th, 10am to 1pm (Plant Sale).
Green Eggs & Sand. Horseshoe crab workshop, the Wetlands Institute. Saturday & Sunday, May 3rd & 4th. For info or to register visit https://wetlandsinstitute.org/green-eggs-and-sand/
Ladies Night at Seashore ACE! 20% off most first floor items; appetizers from local restaurants, wine, mocktails; mini massages; meet podcaster Sara Kelly; design consultations; gift bags for the first 50 customers, door prizes every 15 minutes. Friday, May 9th, 5pm to 7pm.
Avalon Paper Shredding Day, Avalon Public Works Building, Saturday, May 10th, 9am to 2pm.
Bulk Trash Pickup, Stone Harbor, Monday, May 12th.

New Listings:

7900 Dune Drive, C315, Avalon, $460,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 251098

700 First Avenue, 305, Avalon, $959,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 251106

859 Dune Drive, Avalon, $2,500,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 251108

11200 Second Avenue, Stone Harbor, $4,280,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 251082

56 E 22nd Street, Avalon, $5,595,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 251087

158 38th Street, Avalon, $6,295,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 251058

Under Contract:

1100 Ocean Drive, Unit 208, Avalon, $1,999,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 250661

9102 3rd Avenue, Stone Harbor, $2,200,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 250494

165 71st Street, Avalon, $7,595,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 251008

Properties Sold:

694 Avalon Boulevard, Avalon Manor, $16,000, SOLD MLS#: 250654

19 Flamingo Drive, Avalon, $11,600,000, SOLD MLS#: 243369

Avalon and Stone Harbor Weekly Update April 10, 2025

April 8, 2025 By Bill Leahy

A view from above! This aerial photo shows Stone Harbor Boulevard, looking east toward the ocean. Scotch Bonnet Creek in the foreground snakes toward the IntraCoastal Waterway. Just off Stone Harbor Boulevard is the site adjacent to The Wetlands Institute where dredge material was recently placed, raising the height of the wetlands in anticipation of rising sea levels; it will take a couple of years for natural vegetation to grow in the newly raised area. Thanks to Scott Zimmerman for sharing this great photo with us!

ANOTHER GOOD SOAK: Monday brought a day-long soaking rain to the island and surrounding area. More than an inch fell in most areas of Southern New Jersey, helping again to ease drought concerns, but ushered in cooler temperatures and gusty winds. More rain is in the forecast for the end of the week. The good news: April showers bring May flowers!

YOUR KIDS WILL THANK YOU NOW—AND LATER. It’s not hard to imagine how excited your children will be if you decide to purchase a shore home. Family time at the shore, on the beach, making priceless memories—that’s hard to beat! But what about the legacy aspect of your purchase, perhaps several decades from now? Will you leave your shore home to your children? Or, might you (or they) elect to sell it, and invest the proceeds in order to, in turn, fund their own family legacy. Either way, imagine the long-term financial benefits you can provide them by investing in a shore home now. No charge for the priceless memories!

STONE HARBOR HOMEOWNER Joshua Weikert made an appearance on “Jeopardy!” last month—and won six games! Weikert earned more than $100,000, plus a slot in the “Jeopardy!” Tournament of Champions. Weikert will participate in the taping of the tournament in late 2025, and it will air in early 2026. Congratulations, Josh!

DON’T FORGET to register for this weekend’s Spring Beach Sweeps! Help clean up our local beaches in preparation for the upcoming season. Your help is needed, and appreciated! See my events list below for the registration link.

PLEASE FORWARD my newsletter to a friend, family member, or coworker who loves Avalon & Stone Harbor! To subscribe, send me an email! Your email address will not be shared or sold, and you may unsubscribe at any time.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Clean Ocean Action Annual Spring Beach Sweep, Avalon. 30th Street beach, Saturday, April 12th, 9am. To register visit https://cleanoceanaction.org/beach-sweeps/sites-and-registration
Clean Ocean Action Annual Spring Beach Sweep, Stone Harbor. 95th Street beach, Saturday, April 12th, 9am. To register visit https://cleanoceanaction.org/beach-sweeps/sites-and-registration
Clean Ocean Action Annual Spring Beach Sweep, Sea Isle City. Saturday, April 12th, 10am. To register visit https://cleanoceanaction.org/beach-sweeps/sites-and-registration
Stone Harbor Job Fair. Visit with businesses looking for summer help; stop in the Stone Harbor Chamber of Commerce for a list of participating businesses. Downtown Stone Harbor, Saturday, April 12th, 10am to 4pm.
The Longest Yarn. This three-dimensional wool tapestry tells the story of D-Day, June 6, 1944. Naval Air Station Wildwood Museum, Monday, April 14th, 10am to 4pm.
Easter Bunny Express. Ride aboard the Cape May Seashore Lines train with the Easter Bunny. Saturday, April 12 through Saturday, April 19th. For schedules, info, and tickets, visit https://www.seashorelines.org/easter-bunny-express
Local Thursday Kick Off at the Wine Bar. Kick off Local Thursdays with live music, bar plate specials, and 25% off wines by the bottle. The Washington Inn, begins Thursday, April 17th, 4pm to 9pm, and runs Thursdays through mid-June.
Cape May County Zoo Eggstravaganzoo. Easter Bunny I Spy Hunt, Easter Scavenger Hunt, HOPstacle Course, and more. Cape May County Zoo, Friday, April 18th until Friday, April 25th.
Avalon’s Bunny Hop. Visit with the Easter Bunny, face painting, and more. Veteran’s Plaza, Saturday, April 19th, 11am to 2pm.
Easter Brunch at ICONA Avalon. Sunday, April 20th, 10am to 2pm. Make a reservation here: https://www.sevenrooms.com/experiences/avalonbrewpub/easter-brunch-10230468263
Easter Brunch at The Reeds at Shelter Haven. Buffet brunch by the bay. Sunday, April 20th, 10:30am to 3:30pm. For reservations visit https://reedsatshelterhaven.com/reeds-events/easter-brunch/
Easter Brunch & Dinner at the Washington Inn. Easter Brunch from 11am to 2pm; Easter Dinner from 4pm to 7pm, Sunday, April 20th. $56 for adults; $32 for children. For a menu and reservations, visit https://www.washingtoninn.com/upcoming-events/easter-sunday-brunch
Spring Dune Grass Planting. Volunteers are needed to help plant dune grass in Avalon! Volunteers should report to Avalon Community Hall at 8:30am for a brief planting demonstration. After the planting is completed there will be bagged lunches available at Avalon Community Hall. Please sign up for Dune Grass Planting by calling Chuck McDonnell at 609-967-3066 or Sue Keen at 609-967-5924. Saturday, April 26th, 8:30am. Rain date Sunday, April 27th.
Run Wild for the Cape May County Zoo. 5K Run and 1 Mile Walk, presented by Sturdy Savings Bank. Sunday, April 27th, 8am. For info and registration, visit https://runsignup.com/Race/NJ/CapeMayCourtHouse/RunWildfortheCapeMayCountyZoo
Spring Sidewalk Sale Weekend, Stone Harbor, May 3rd & 4th.
Bulk Trash Pickup, Avalon. Place items curbside from May 2nd through May 11th, for pickup to begin at 7am on May 12th.
Avalon Garden Club Plant and Bake Sale. Avalon Garden Club Greenhouse, 39th Street between Dune and Ocean Drives, Saturday, May 3rd, 8am to 3pm (Plant & Bake Sale), and Sunday, May 4th, 10am to 1pm (Plant Sale).
Stone Harbor Spring Sidewalk Sale Weekend, Saturday & Sunday, May 3rd & 4th.
Green Eggs & Sand. Horseshoe crab workshop, the Wetlands Institute. Saturday & Sunday, May 3rd & 4th. For info or to register visit https://wetlandsinstitute.org/green-eggs-and-sand/
Avalon Paper Shredding Day, Avalon Public Works Building, Saturday, May 10th, 9am to 2pm.
Bulk Trash Pickup, Stone Harbor, Monday, May 12th.

New Listings:

2023 Dune Drive, 2023, Avalon, $1,545,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 250946

19 Seabreeze Lane, Avalon Manor, $1,799,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 251037

219 117th Street, Rear, Stone Harbor, $2,389,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 250990

553 21st Street, Avalon, $2,795,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 251018

2988 Avalon Avenue, Avalon, $4,200,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 251026

165 71st Street, Avalon, $7,595,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 251008

9301 1st Avenue, Stone Harbor, $7,895,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 250989

Under Contract:

7888 Dune Drive, 213, Avalon, $465,500, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 250887

7888 Dune Drive, #222, Avalon, $599,900, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 250886

482 Old Avalon Boulevard, Avalon Manor, $1,099,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 250679

170 77th Street, Avalon, $3,795,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 250983

10624 Corinthian Drive, BAY FRONT, Stone Harbor, $5,195,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 250685

Properties Sold:

130 87th Street, Stone Harbor, $4,399,999, SOLD MLS#: 243386

13 Pelican Drive, Avalon, $11,000,000, SOLD MLS#: 242277

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