The Junior Woman's Club of Jefferson Township (JWCJT) began a new community service initiative this past Valentine's Day. The ‘Valentines for Vets' project resulted from brainstorming discussions on causes which the JWCJT may not have addressed but could greatly benefit from our volunteer efforts. Thus, my colleague Pam Tucker and I visited the US Veterans Hospital, located at 385 Tremont Ave, East Orange this past Valentine's Day and were met by Crystal Grace, Voluntary Service Specialist.
Ms. Grace gave us an overview of what the Vets need most. Books are great, but they should NOT be war or violence related. Some of these guys get flashbacks and the triggers are painful. Books or reading material should be PG rated at the most. Large print books are like gold to these guys! Some have deteriorating vision and can't read the tiny print most books have.
We thought we would be just dropping off valentines at each nurse's station and leaving. It turned out to be ultimately more rewarding to get face-to-face with the vets and really relate to them as grateful citizens and friends. Let them know we realize that they sacrified so much; let them know we recognize their sacrifice. We wouldn't have the luxuries we do if it weren't for Americans like them. This project is immensely rewarding and challenging, and you certainly walk away with a deepened sense of gratitude for what you have.
One of the first gentlemen we met had been in and out of the hospital for 18 years. He has terminal cancer. He spoke to us very easily as if we were old friends. He was comforted by the idea that life here is temporary but he was headed for a better life. Another man from Montclair, NJ was very spirited and happy to be leaving soon. We offered him slippers that had been donated but then learned he had only one leg and he wanted someone else to get them who could use both of them.
Then we met Mike. Mike was watching us give the nurses at the station valentines to pass out. He got involved in the conversation "because he's nosy." What he had to say was invaluable. He wouldn't accept anything we were passing out because he felt he had everything he needed in life and was "quite affluent." Mike has MS but still has use of his left arm and can speak with no challenges. He was an absolute inspiration. He was thrilled with the fact he can use his left arm and communicate at will.
He told us a story to further drive the point that he felt blessed. Mike and his wife had been trying for years to conceive. He hadn't been feeling well and scheduled a visit to the doctor. He later learned through tests that he had MS. When he went home to tell his wife his diagnosis, she had news for him too. She had woken up that morning and was strongly compelled to open the Bible. The page she opened up to was Isaiah 54.
She had been to the doctor herself that morning and found out she was pregnant. They named their son Matthew, which name means "gift of the Lord." Matthew's now 14 years old.
Mike told us that many of the Vets have absolutely no one as family and have literally been forgotten. No one sits and talks to them. No contact from the outside. Even someone reading a little from the Bible to them would mean so much.
After we were done with several wards, we decided to regroup at Voluntary Services. Crystal, the service director and Tyrone, could not be more effusive in their appreciation of what the JWCJT sought to do today. We expressed our interest in coming back and they provided us with a form to complete to ensure our status as regular volunteers.
The circumstances surrounding the Vets there are all unique. Many of the Vets who are ailing are homeless. Some homeless actually take residence IN the hospital and try to live under the radar.
In all, although it was an emotionally challenging day, we came through feeling like the Vets really appreciated the short time we spent with them. The JWCJT has adopted this initiative, now known as HUGS FOR HEROES. We are seeking donations of inspirational books or literature, Reader's Digests', large print books, new blankets, new clothing, slippers, socks, underwear, zip-front sweatshirts, combs, toothpaste, toothbrushes, bar soap, shaving cream, crossword puzzle books. We will distribute these items personally on a monthly basis. The HUGS FOR HEROES Project is a monthly ritual, with Juniors visiting the VA Hospital to distribute what we can collect from our community and individual donors.
If you'd like to support HUGS FOR HEROES in any way or make a donation, please contact me directly at either ascognamiglio@njrealestate.com or via my cell number, 201.240.8699. Any and all donations are appreciated!
"Antoinette" Scognamiglio (licensed as Maria), Sales Associate, Prudential New Jersey Properties. 64 Diamond Spring Road, Denville, NJ 07834. Office: 973-625-1870 x105. Cell: 201-240-8699.
Are you considering purchasing a home in Morris County? I specialize in the Morris County, New Jersey marketplace, with expertise in Lakefront property (especially Lake Hopatcong). Certified by Prudential New Jersey Properties as a relocation specialist, I take exceptional care in assisting my clients in finding their new home and community.
Please visit my website to learn more about my philosophy in conducting real estate business and to access the resources I offer to buyers and sellers. My credo is..."The title of REALTOR® should be held with great care or not held at all." Put your real estate transaction in careful hands.
Denville, NJ, the "hub of Morris County," offers 102 homes actively listed for sale at this writing, with 19 listings under contract. Following are the closed sales for the month of January 2009.
Information provided by Garden State Multiple Listing Service. Info deemed reliable but not guaranteed. |
"Antoinette" Scognamiglio (licensed as Maria), REALTOR® Associate, Prudential New Jersey Properties, 64 Diamond Spring Road, Denville, NJ 07834.
"Antoinette" Scognamiglio specializes in Morris and Sussex Counties, with an extra focus on lakefront property, in particular Lake Hopatcong. Please visit my website learn more about my philosophy in conducting real estate business, and also to access the resources I offer to the public at large.
My credo is..."The title of REALTOR® should be held with great care or not held at all." Put your real estate transaction in careful hands.
Contact me directly on my cell at 201-240-8699 or my Denville office at 973-625-1870, ext. 105.
Jefferson Twp., NJ currently offers 192 listings for sale, with 24 under contract as of this writing. Following are closed sales information for the month of January 2009. A slow month to say the least!
Information courtesy of the Garden State Multiple Listing Service. Information may be deemed reliable but not guaranteed. |
"Antoinette" Scognamiglio (licensed as Maria), REALTOR® Associate, Prudential New Jersey Properties, 64 Diamond Spring Road, Denville, NJ 07834.
"Antoinette" Scognamiglio specializes in Morris and Sussex Counties, with an extra focus on lakefront property, in particular Lake Hopatcong. Please visit my website learn more about my philosophy in conducting real estate business, and also to access the resources I offer to the public at large.
My credo is..."The title of REALTOR® should be held with great care or not held at all."
Put your real estate transaction in careful hands. Contact me directly on my cell at 201-240-8699 or my Denville office at 973-625-1870, ext. 105.
What an interesting weekend. How many of the following factors do you figure you could encounter in the space of a year? I must have been exceptionally blessed this past Sunday as I managed to face these all in, oh, say...30 minutes.
I elected this past weekend to present an offer to a member of a brokerage that is apparently investing in, not membership to Jeffrey Otteau's seasonal real estate market workshops, but massive blinders along with a few choice real estate holdings in the sand (and other locations which I am just too polite to mention) in which to stick their heads snugly, in order avoid confusing their perspective with reality.
But step back. This listing is in a very easy-to-price development. Cookie cutter. You have 8 listings that close within a 6 month period with the same (or better amenites) and lo and behold...there's your asking price. Quick, easy, and guess what...the home will appraise too!
The listing my clients had interest in pursuing was overpriced by $65,000. On the market over 6 months! Due to expire in two weeks. Here I arrive with a market value offer and I'm told:
a) As the agent assisting the listing agent, "please note that I'm a multi-million dollar producer...check my card." I did...after I left. She accomplished inclusion in the NJAR Distinguished Sales Club, NJAR Million Dollar Sales Club, Weichert Million Dollar Sales Club and Weichert Ambassadors Club -- from 1999 through 2001. I'm relieved I didn't study her business card closely while I was there with her and her client as the reaction would have been very embarrassing...for her.
b) "This listing is sure to appraise at our high price," despite the fact that nothing else has sold at that price, except for a new construction and the largest model in the development.
c) "You're doing such a lovely job, dear. And OH, what a lovely business card."
So now not only are we condescending and patronizing all in the same breath, but I'm further to be enlightened later on when she mentions "I'm all about the transaction....will your customers come up to $XXX,XXX?
The only answer I had for her was "I dont' know...I'll have to ask." What I will say soon is, "Why in the world should my clients pay over market value when a more updated unit just closed this past FRIDAY for less?"
Ultimately, we never had a deal. My clients and I saw more homes this weekend, and I wrote up another offer today. That other listing is due to expire; the homeowner still needs to sell. The realtors still need a deal. Nobody wins there except me and my buyers. What can I say....you may be "all about the deal" but I'm "all about the client."
Which do you think brings you more returns in the end?
Any pet owner can attest to the fact that their pet is a very important member of their family. Like children, our pets need careful consideration of their needs. They depend on their owners for everything...just like our children.
So why should there not be a nanny service for our four-footed family? Thankfully, a business does exist to cover this pressing need. The Peaks Pet Nanny, LLC offers professional and loving care to pets whose owners could use the assistance. Here's a handful of situations that would welcome assistance by The Peaks Pet Nanny LLC:
Their philosophy is loving care, minimal stress, and the importance of routine under a watchful eye. When you're going to be away for an extended time, having a quality Pet Nanny travel to your home, allows your pet to remain in their own safe & secure environment, while they provide the love and attention they deserve.
Servicing Lake Hopatcong, Hopatcong, Stanhope, Dover, Budd Lake, Morristown, Florham Park, and the Surrounding Areas of Morris, Sussex & Essex Counties, this service is a MUST for any family with a demanding schedule!
And, The Peaks Pet Nanny Donates a Portion of Proceeds to The Humane Society, the ASPCA and Local Rescue Groups
But wait...that's not all you get! In-Home Pet Care has Become the Preferred Alternative to Kennels, and guess what...The Peaks Pet Nanny provides just that as well!
All Pet Nannies are Certified, Insured and Bonded. Nannies are even certified in Pet CPR! Of course, Client References are Always Available
I'm honored to know Gina Brugna, President of The Peaks Pet Nanny LLC personally. The pride she has for her mission and the dedication she invests in her business is clearly evident. Over 300 clients in the Northern New Jersey area have entrusted the care of their furry friends to The Peaks Pet Nanny and so can you.
Visit their website for more information and pricing.
"Antoinette" Scognamiglio (licensed as Maria), REALTOR® Associate, Prudential New Jersey Properties, 64 Diamond Spring Road, Denville, NJ 07834. "Antoinette" Scognamiglio specializes in Morris and Sussex Counties, with an extra focus on lakefront property, in particular Lake Hopatcong. Please visit my website learn more about my philosophy in conducting real estate business, and also to access the resources I offer to the public at large. My credo is..."The title of REALTOR® should be held with great care or not held at all." Put your real estate transaction in careful hands. Contact me directly on my cell at 201-240-8699 or my Denville office at 973-625-1870, ext. 105.
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Call 201.240.8699 for a straight-facts-and-no pressure experience in buying or selling your home! Known for my "so quick it's scary" response time...give it a try!
I'm a full-time REALTOR®, who specializes in the Northern New Jersey area and lakefront property. My daily goal is the creation of life long business relationships with my clients and earning the honor to further do business with their friends and family.
I'm well known for my "amazingly quick and almost scary" response time to my clients' inquiries. Give it a shot and call me at 201.240.8699!
Are you considering selling your current home? As an Accredited Staging Professional, I offer this service on a complimentary basis to my clients. Once an agreement to list your home has been reached, I'll provide you with the guidance you need to transform your home into a "showcase" property. With the vast selection available to buyers today, staging your home can set your property above and beyond all others!
Passive marketing is not enough to sell your home in today's market. I take a Pro-Active stance by custom tailoring an aggressive marketing plan and get results by using the most active and effective methods and tools. Each of my listings has complete exposure to the broadest range of potential business by creating a formidable online presence and maximizing the potential of each property.
If you're buying a home or relocating, many satisfied buyers have depended upon on me for my knowledge of the residential market. You should be provided with comprehensive personalized service to assist in finding an affordable first home, move up home, or dream estate as this investment involves hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Having developed many contacts with fellow REALTORS®, lenders, title companies, attorneys, inspectors and contractors, I can help you find the resources you need.
Real estate is my passion and I truly enjoy working with people to help make their lives better and their dreams come true.
I cover Morris County and sections of Sussex, Passaic, and Northernmost Bergen County in New Jersey. I specialize in marketing lakefront property and can provide valuable assistance in selling your lakefront home, or assisting in your search for lakefront real estate...ask me about Lake Hopatcong.
You deserve state of the art service and Maximum Exposure when you're selling your home. I use my progressive independent website, www.antoinetteshomes.com, among others, to showcase your home & attract qualified buyers. All listings are photographed using state of the art photo equipment. Your home will be actively showcased through direct mail and broadcast internet mail. NO ONE WILL POST YOUR HOME TO MORE INTERNET OUTLETS THAN I WILL...THAT'S A FACT I CAN GUARANTEE!
November 13, 2006,
Antoinette was by far the best agent we have ever had! This is our THIRD house, and I look forward to working with her again when we sell our home!
Steve & Casey Conti
Oak Ridge, NJ
October 14, 2006
Dear Sirs,
"Almost a year and a half ago I bought a fix- me-up home in West Milford, NJ. It was to be an invest to "flip." The home cost more than $240,000. The real estate agent said if I put in $20,000 and three months work, he could sell it for about $360,000.
After SIX months work and $40,000, the same salesman said he could get $330,000. I signed a six months contract. In that time he brought in his friends for a clean up for $150. I got a bill for $300. He wanted to bring in a crew to landscape the property for another $800. I did it myself for nothing. I was spending more than $2,000 a month in mortgage and building material payments. I was desperate.
Twice he said he had the house sold. Once for $300,000. That fell through he said. Another sale went down the tubes on the way to signing the papers for $280,000. I never met or saw a buyer.
With one month left on the contract, a friend at work recommended I talk with Antoinette Scognamiglio. I called her and explained my situation. Antoinette volunteered to look at the house and make suggestions that might help sell the house. Antoinette came to the home on her own time, offering to help me make some changes even though there was nothing in it for her. I did as Antoinette suggested and still my real estate agent could not get anyone interested. When the contract expired, I signed with Antoinette.
Antoinette went to bat and made up brochures, put the house on the internet, put flowers around the property and held an open house.
The real estate market had peaked four months earlier, and it was going to be a long haul. Not with Antoinette. She had the house sold for $286,000 in ten weeks in a soft market.
At the time of the sale, my bank account was down to my last $81 -- eighty one dollars.
Antoinette sold my house, saved my credit and made a friend for life."
Sincerely,
Don Smith (location withheld)
September 7, 2006
We went into an open house of a home that we couldn't afford, and Antoinetted gave us excellent service regardless, whether we could afford the home or not! This is why we stayed with her throughout our search.
Christopher & Christine Mirkovich
Waldwick, NJ
February 2006
To whom it may concern:
"We have found Antoinette to be a unique gem. She is a person that goes above and beyond to satisfy her clients.
We first met Antoinette when we were looking at open houses. She really listened to what was important fo our family and our needs. She searched for properties that fit the criteria we were looking for. She researched properties and towns for us. She really had an understanding of what we were looking for in a home. She always met us with excitement and the genuine desire to help.
Also, Antoinette did a wonderful job selling our home. She created a marketing plan so that our home would be well advertised and the open house well attended. The flyer that she created was magnificent and highlighted all of our home's features. She did such a great job of selling our home that we had multiple offers above the listing price. We could not have asked for anything more, as Antoinette truly made the sale of our home seamless.
We are proud to recommend Antoinette as she is an amazing person and Realtor!
Louis and Jennifer Maldonado
June 23, 2005
"On January 22, while attempting to sell my home on my own, one of your agents telephoned me offering to help me market my property. This agent's name is Antoinette Scognamiglio. At the time I was not interested in turning my property over to a real estate broker. The reason was that I was being annoyed by so many brokers that I just didn't want to deal with anyone.
As it was, Antoinette was probably the only one that did not badger me and so on February 11, I agreed to meet with her to discuss the marketing of my property. She came to my home well prepared and from that time until this very day I am still impressed with her marketing skills and her dedication in finding a buyer for my property.
On June 14 we had the closing on my property, and you can be sure that if I know of anyone who will be selling their property, I will recommend your company and Antoinette to place their home on the market.
Thank you again!
Joan Lee
February 2006
"Thank you so much for all of your help and advice during the sale of my home, especially during all of the difficulties with the potential buyers. I could not have made it through without you!
I wish I could take you with me to California!"
Annmarie B.
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