Great Towns on New Jersey’s MIDTOWN DIRECT Train Line: Sean Shallis interviewed on WPIX (video)

As promised here is the video of  Sean interviewed this morning on WPIX discussing the criteria parents can use to select where to live in New Jersey.


…and here are those reports that were discussed in the news segment, showing School Budget cuts, and graphs that map Real Estate Taxes vs SAT Scores.

April 23, 2010 | Filed Under Communities, Essex County, Featured Videos, Hudson County, Latest News, Morris County, Tips for Buyers, Tips for Sellers, Union County | Leave a Comment 

Sean T Shallis Featured on WPIX TV

Sean Shallis will appear on WPIX TV at 8:30am Eastern time on Friday to discuss School Scores and Real Estate choices in New Jersey.

Here are four studies we conducted on this issue together with commentary on NJ Education Budget Cuts:

Whether you’re considering buying or selling, we can help. Send me an email or call me immediately at 201-988-1393 for a personal and confidential conversation.

April 15, 2010 | Filed Under Essex County, Hudson County, Latest News, Morris County, Union County | Leave a Comment 

10 Cleaning Tips to Sell Your Property

Getting a house to sell these days can be a daunting task. With the flood of homes on the market due to the economy and the constant wave of foreclosures, competition is tough. Add to the mix the competition from the inventory of new homes and condos with upgrades and incentives that buyers never thought possible a few years ago.

So how does the average home seller compete? The key is to create a clean clutter free environment that creates an inviting lifestyle. Whether or not you home has been remodeled, the first priority in selling a home is that it’s clean and streamlined. Potential buyers need help envisioning your home with their lifestyle. Having clutter, knick knacks and overly decorated rooms are an instant turn off that interfere with the basic layout of the home. Here are some helpful tips that can make a big difference without breaking the bank.

Real Estate Cleaning Tips:

  • Clean the Clutter. Prospective home buyers don’t want to see your bills, post-it notes or your child’s latest masterpiece on the refrigerator. They want to see clean open space. Laundry, unfinished projects and toys must be contained in an out-of-site storage place.
  • Paint. Painting creates a clean look and is a relatively inexpensive way to update your home. Neutral tones are always the safest option to help a buyer feel comfortable.
  • Pack Up. Since moving is your ultimate goal, start packing knick knacks, CD’s, books and memorabilia early. This allows more space to be seen and shows a more generic home that could be lived in by anyone. Store the boxes in a garage or storage facility so they don’t add clutter.
  • Set the Mood. When possible before a potential buyer comes to look at your home, create an inviting atmosphere. Open some windows to let in some fresh air and light. Turn off the TVs and turn on some quiet music. Place fresh flowers in the kitchen or on the dining room table.
  • Counter Space. Try to create as much open space on the counters as possible. There should be no visible storage containers or unnecessary appliances such as coffee grinders, grills, griddles, bowls, rotisseries, etc. Give the counters a good wipe down and remove any stains.
  • Closets, Cupboards and Cabinets. Potential home buyers want to see exactly what they might be getting. This includes the inside of closets, cabinets and cupboards to see how much space lies behind the doors. These spaces need to be cleaned up and scaled down with the amount of stuff hidden in them. The more space that is showing, the larger it will look. Pack any non-essentials away and store them in the garage or storage facility.
  • First Impressions. When selling a home it’s important to remember the outside of the home is its first impression. Replace any dead plants and landscaping. Clear all weeds and fix any brickwork or drywall issues. Make sure the outside paint is current and maintained.
  • Appliances. If your house or condo is on the market and the appliances are included, it’s important to clean and maintain the inside as well as the outside. Clients will be looking to see exactly what they are getting, how well the appliances are maintained and how much space is inside.
  • The Garage. It’s easy to move your clutter from the inside of the house to the garage. However, this space needs to be seen in the best light possible too. A garage packed with boxes, bicycles, furniture, toys and memorabilia will make the space look much smaller and give the buyer the impression that there is not enough room. Consider renting a storage room for a few months while your home is on the market.

Once your house is clean and streamlined, it will allow you to see what further improvements you would like to make. Experienced professional real estate cleaners can help get your home into model condition. ABM Cleaning is a trusted and experienced real estate cleaning service in the tri-state area as well as up and down the East Coast. We are bonded, insured and our employees are trained and certified to follow OSHA and EPA guidelines. Please contact us directly for a free estimate at toll free 1-877-667-4725.

In this real estate market finding experienced real estate help is essential. Please contact Sean T Shallis at The Shallis Group for a personal consultation on your buying or selling needs at 201-427-1032.

April 5, 2010 | Filed Under Latest News, Tips for Sellers | Leave a Comment 

Water-main break hits Newport section of Jersey City

JERSEY CITY — Police said a 35-inch water main broke today on 18th Street.

Lt. Edgar Martinez said residents and businesses in the Newport area could be without water for the next 24 hours. Martinez said that includes about 16 high-rises.

Martinez said water tankers will be brought into the area.

Police said United Water Company is working to get the break fixed as quickly as possible.

April 1, 2010 | Filed Under Latest News | Leave a Comment