This is a great time to think about buying a Bergen County NJ home. Bergen County NJ home prices have dropped and interest rates are at all time lows. The biggest hurdle for many home buyers is saving money for a down payment. Here are 25 things to do on a regular basis to save money:
1. Make it automatic. Before you see your paycheck, have a percentage of it automatically deposited into your 401(k) and savings. |
2. Keep minimum funds in checking account. Transfer extra funds into your savings account where it will earn more interest than in our checking account.
3. Don't pay banking fees! Use your bank's free bill pay, automatic deposits, free checks, and free reimbursements for all ATM fees.
4. Use rewards credit cards. Use a credit card offering cash back on every purchase and pay the card off each month to eliminate interest fees.
5. Actively search out deals. It never hurts to try and find a better deal, or request a better deal from your service providers.
6. Use a programmable thermostat. Programmable thermostats save you an estimated 10-20% on your heating and cooling bills.
7. Use ceiling fans, floor fans, and space heaters. Turn your thermostat down, close the doors to unused rooms and use a space heater for heat. Use ceiling fans and floor fans to assist with heating and cooling - depending on the season of course!
8. Install CFLs to save energy. Compact fluorescent lights use about a quarter of the electricity of normal incandescent bulbs. They also need replaced much less often.
9. Drive smoothly. Accelerate smoothly and at a reasonable rate, and coast to a stop as often as possible. Also use cruise control on the highway. My car is rated to get 26 mpg around town and I regularly get 29. You can also use these tips to save money on gas, and use gas rewards credit cards to save money on fuel costs.
10. Plan and research major purchases. Take the time to research the best deals when planning a vacation.
11. Buy quality products. Quality items may cost more up front, but they last longer and generally provide better results than cheaper, inferior products. Examples of items you should buy higher quality - furniture, clothes and shoes, vehicles, and other items that will see a lot of use.
12. Buy generic where applicable. You can save a lot of money on generic items for which the brand name product is essentially the same as the store brand. Food and medicines come to mind as items where generic products are good deals.
13. Use coupons and rebates. Use coupons for oil changes, groceries, books, on-line purchases, and just about anything else we can find.
14. Use store rewards cards. Many grocery stores have their own ‘reward cards' saving you money each time your shop. If you are a senior, shop on designated senior citizen discount days.
15. Cook at home. Limit restaurant dining to once a month.
16. Eat leftovers. You can save a minimum of $20 a week by bringing your lunch to work. It is also healthier. On the rare occasion you go out to lunch with coworkers, you'll enjoy it more.
17. Use the library. Borrow books and movies from the library. New movie releases aren't always available, but there are usually plenty of classics from the 40s and 50s.
18. Use parks. They are great for hiking and outdoor recreation.
19. Take care of things. Treat the tings you own with respect and take good care of them. This includes doing things such as cleaning the house, washing your cars, and polishing shoes. Things last much longer when you take good care of them.
20. Buy insurance. Health insurance, home owner's insurance, auto insurance, and other types of insurance are designed to save you money! Sure, you may end up paying premiums for years and never file a claim, but in the event you need to file a claim, your premium will likely be small compared to what you would have had to pay. You'll be very happy if you ever need it!
21. Bundle cable and internet. You can save a lot of money by bundling these together rather than purchasing the separately. You can save more if you bundle your phone as well.
22. Use cell phones - skip the landline. Depending on your plan, it can be a real cost saving.
23. Cancel subscriptions. Almost everything you want can be found on-line for free.
24. Home improvement. Try making your own repairs before calling a professional.
25. Avoid debt. If you don't have the money for it, don't buy it.
Saving money and watching your savings account grow is a rewarding experience...especially if it can help you purchase a Bergen County NJ home of your own.
Learn more about buying a home at PaulaClarkRealtor.com or give me a call for more personal service.
Search all Bergen County real estate and homes for sale!
Mortgage rates improved slightly last week, even as stock markets experienced a moderate bounce.
While economic news continues to highlight subpar economic activity, a few more signs of hope
appeared last week. Retail sales slipped by 0.1%, which was less than the 0.4% expected. More
encouraging was that "core" retail sales, which excludes auto-related items, rose for the second month
in a row. This type of news is leading some economists, including Fed Chair Bernanke, to believe that
we could be near the bottom, with a chance of economic recovery starting in 2010.
The Fed meets again this week and is unlikely to change economic policy. However, if the Fed
announces that its programs are working as planned, and it announces that the programs will continue
until economic recovery is fully realized, we could see some downward pressure on rates, especially if
investors, even just a few, begin to move back into the secondary market. Of course, if the rally in
stocks accelerates, rates might be forced upward as money moves out of the bond market.
Mortgage Rates 
4.50%
4.75%
5.00%
5.25%
12/24 1/7 1/21 2/4 2/18 3/4
30Yr 15Yr 1Yr ARM
Dow Jones
6,500.00
7,000.00
7,500.00
8,000.00
8,500.00
9,000.00
16-Dec 30-Dec 13-Jan 27-Jan 10-Feb 24-Feb 10-Mar
This Week's Top Economic Reports and Events Mortgage Rate Interest Rates and Indexes Trends
Short-Term 10 Yr T-Note 2.900% COSI 3.760%
Long-Term 6 Month Libor 1.902% CODI 2.572%
Volatility High Prime Rate 3.250% MTA 1.514%
Historical Rates
0.00
3.00
6.00
9.00
Mar-04 Mar-05 Mar-06 Mar-07 Mar-08
1 Yr CMT MTA COFI
CODI Prime
Industrial Production
3/16 -1.8% -1.0%
Significant
With expectations for another sizable drop, any reading above -0.5%
would rally stocks, but put some downward pressure on mortgage rates.
Producer Price Index (core) Moderate
Another unexpected jump in the PPI could serve to generate some fears
of upcoming retail inflation and rates could be pushed up slightly.
Consumer Price Index (core) Significant
While an above-expectations reading usually pushes rates up, a reading
of 0.2% would calm deflationary fears and help keep rates flat.
FOMC Policy Announcement Significant
With the debate intensifying over government management of this
recession, a statement regarded as weak could move rates upward.
Leading Economic Indicators Moderate
After two months of unexpected increases, a third month could add to the
hopes of economic recovery, but rates would feel upward pressure.
Bergen County Home Information. Old Tappan, Harrington Park, Westwood, Norwood, River Vale, Montvale, Hillsdale, Park Ridge, New Jersey Bergen County, Pascack, and Northern Valley of New Jersey.
Contact Paula Clark Coldwell Banker 50 Broadway, Hillsdale, NJ Call Paula Clark Direct: (201) 930-3070
As of March 13 2009 The current market for Old Tappan in The Northern Valley of Bergen County, There are presently 53 homes on the market from price ranges starting at $389 which is a 2 bedroom tiny home on the corner of a main road in Old Tappan, and ranging all the way up to $3.799,000 for a magnificent 5 bedroom home with an indoor basketball court. There are currently 10 homes that are Under Contract, and in the last 6 months 18 homes have Sold ranging from $350 all the way up to $2.275.
Ok, so they say the Real Estate Market has come to a stand still... not necessarily so. There are buyers that are looking to buy a home, and there are Sellers that are not necessarily in a crunch, and will sell because what ever they are buying, they will buy for less, with good credit have a low interest rate, and if a first time buyer will reap the benefit of the $8,000 credit from Obamas' new Stimulus Plan. A First time home buyer doesn't only refer to the first time ever that are buying a home in New Jersey, Bergen County, or Hudson County, Passaic, and Essex County etc.... If you have not purchased a home within 3 years, you too can take advantage of this stimulus plan to receive this $8.000 credit. This refund does not have to be paid back. For featured homes in Bergen County log onto www.PaulaClarkRealtor.com
Some of the homes that Sold in Old Tappan, River Vale, Park Ridge, Westwood, and many areas of Bergen County...
River Vale( Click here for Town info)
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Top Agent in the Northern, and Pascack Valley, and All of Bergen County. with a team of professionals that cover all of your Real Estate needs. Getting maximum exposure for your home is what you can
Welcome to Bergen County NJ Real Estate
I have been a licensed Realtor in Bergen County, New Jersey for 14 years. I have lived in Bergen County, New Jersey for over 24 years. During the mid 1990s I was Fort Lee's Commissioner of Housing for 5 years. Married for 25 years with two children ages 23, and 19. I volunteer for many committees in my community. Currently, I am Chairperson of Old Tappan's Oak Tree Property Committee as well as the Old Tappan's Environmental Commission.
I have represented Buyers and Sellers of Residential Real Estate all over Bergen County. Because of my vast experience all over Bergen County, I bring Buyers and Sellers together for that perfect match from every where. I am a "Relocation Specialist" and a designated "Previews Specialist".
I am a full time professional agent, with a great deal of energy, enthusiasm. I take pride in my profession. Assisting my clients so they get to the closing table with ease is my highest priority. I care about my clients, and do everything to make sure each transaction goes as smoothly as possible.
I have a unique marketing strategy unlike any other Realtor. I have a great team that assist me in making my profession one that will service ALL of my clients. Coldwell Banker is the Number 1 Company in All of Bergen County. Not only have we consistently held the Top Market share in my area... We are also on the cutting edge in Internet marketing.
The Rapid Response system allows us to contact prospective buyers immediately. 80% of Buyers are searching for homes via the Internet. The Paula Clark Team will make your move smooth, and stress free. We are with you from start to finish. I work hard at being "Your Realtor for life"
Making Bergen County NJ Home
Bergen County NJ is located in the north eastern tip of New Jersey and is considered within the New York Metro area, making a commute into the city hassle free. Bergen County communities offer a quiet, quality of life that can't be found in the city. They are close-knit, family-oriented oases, protecting you from the hustle and bustle of 21st Century living.
Edgewater is located on the Hudson River in Bergen County, NJ and within the New York metro area. The population is approximately 9,600. The name derives from its location on the river. This charming, historic borough, part of New Jersey's "Gold Coast", has witnessed an unprecedented period of rapid commercial and residential development in recent years.
Harrington Park, with a population of approximately 4,700 was named for the Harring family of settlers. Harrington Park was given the prestigious honor of ranking 7th out of 566 New Jersey municipalities based on economy, cost of living, education, crime, culture and leisure. People who move into Harrington Park usually stay for life!
Hillsdale is a historic town with ample picturesque charm. Home to about 10,500 residents, the town has a sensitively restored downtown of Victorian buildings, cobble sidewalks, gas-lamp style streetlamps, an expansive green, and a pretty Victorian gazebo. The slate blue train station was built in 1869 and is now on both the National and New Jersey Registers of Historic Places; commuters to Manhattan appreciate the fact that they can get to work in less than 40 minutes. A Victorian clock tower presides over all and numerous raised flower beds only add to the overall appeal. Hillsdale was the subject of a 2004' article in the The New York Times, titled A Haven For Commuters with Families and features an excellent school system.
Old Tappan is home to about 5,500 residents, Old Tappan is a friendly community on the shores of beautiful Lake Tappan in northeast New Jersey. Ample parks, steadily appreciating real estate and excellent schools make this human-scale community an ideal place to bring up a family. The Delaware Indian word "Tuphanne" is where the name Tappan is derived from. It means cold water. Why it was named Old Tappan, no one knows, but it is believed that it was to distinguish it from Tappan, New York, of which Old Tappan was formerly a part.
Known as the "Garden Spot" of the Pascack Valley, lush River Vale is famous for its beautiful plantings and abundant trees, bushes, and flowers. Home to about 10,000 residents, River Vale is a tranquil residential town of quiet winding streets, ample parks, and historic homes. "Downtown" is Rivervale Road, a friendly main street that runs north/south through the center of the community. the township of River Vale was featured by Money Magazine as number 29 on their list of the Top 100 Places To Live In America!
Norwood is about 2 miles from the New York state line. Norwood's 2007 population is 6,277 with there being 2,324 residents per square mile density. The average household size is 2.86 persons with 2,070 households. The name Norwood emanated from the old description "North-Woods". The Lenni Lenape Indians roamed the land as evidenced by an occasional arrowhead dug up in a local garden. Norwood is till proud of their "North-Woods: and in 2006 the Mayor and Council entered into a Deed of Conservation Easement with the Meadowlands Conservation Trust to preserve 100+ acres of property in perpetuity as open space.
Westwood is known as the 'Hub" of the Pascack Valley area in the center of Bergen County Westwood has a trendy downtown Business District with Stores that are sure to appeal to everyone. The Pascack Valley Train line also stops in Westwood and NJ Transit Buses are also plentiful. Westwood schools are rated among the best in the country.
Upper Montvale is a community of diversity and contrast with lovely suburban neighborhoods and attractive campus-like corporations resulting from prudent planning. Its geographic location makes Montvale an ideal place to live and work. Upper Montvale is renowned for one of the finest educational systems in Bergen County, which is strongly supported by our residents and local government.
Woodcliff Lake is one of the most scenic towns in all of the Pascack Valley, deriving its name from the incredible body of water that inhabits the town, the Woodcliff Lake Reservior. It is a beautifully scenic borough, with lush woodlands, streams, secluded properties, and the jewel of Woodcliff Lake Reservoir at its center. Pascack Hills High School is recognized as the Top 10 schools of New Jersey.
Emerson is a community that typifies tradition. It is located in the heart of the Pascack Valley, with a picturesque train station at its center. A fine educational system includes public and private schools. Primarily residential, the town offers a large shopping center as well as many local specialty stores. People travel from near and far to dine at the local historic hotel.
Park Ridge is in the beautiful Pascack Valley section of Bergen County. It is known for it's excellent schools and wonderful accessibility to New York City. In the early 1900's, it established its own Electric and Water Companies that still service its residents today. Park Ridge is home to a growing corporate population while it still maintains its small town flavor. The historic "Bears Nest" area is being developed with luxurious townhouses, a major hotel and well designed corporate campuses. Richard Nixon was once an owner of one of the original Bear's Nest townhomes.
Buying a home in Bergen County NJ? Search all homes for sale and sign up for an automated Email Home Search. Moving from out of town? You'll find relocation information here.
Selling a home? I offer a FREE no-obligation Market Analysis.
Get the latest Bergen County news. For the most up-to-date information about Bergen County NJ, be sure to read my Blog.
When buying or selling a home, call Paula Clark, your Bergen County NJ real estate Expert!
201-930-3070 ■ RealtorPaula777@aol.com ■ www.PaulaClarkRealtor.com
"You are head and shoulders above in your field. I never knew the professionalism of Coldwell Banker until I began to work with you and your team. You are not only savvy and knowledgeable, but you are also kind and genuine. This combination made buying a home stress-free and pleasurable. Since we met, I have appreciated how clearly you listened to what I wanted then made it happen. You have been an invaluable representative every step of the way. You are a consummate professional." - H.R. Partis, Woodcliff Lake, NJ
"I'm not sure if I ever conveyed the way I feel but having you represent us has made this entire process with real estate brokers before we started to really do anything about choosing a new home. There are many fine points of our relationship that I am pleased to be able to share with anyone I know who is looking to sell or a buy a home [none of which I heard in the many responses about other people's experiences with realtors-which were mostly negative comments]. In a nutshell, your right-on-target advice of how to prepare to sell our home; persistent research and lightning response in helping us find a new home and the infinitely man small details of this process that you have helped us understand and address make it clear that you combine expert knowledge and experience with a genuine caring for your clients is exceptional. I can't thanks you enough, and I can't imagine having traveled this road with anyone else. You are truly the Princess of Sales!"- P. Doll, Hillsdale, NJ
"While driving by a house we liked that was currently on the market we saw Paula Clark listed as the selling agent, and by chance decided to give her a call. My siblings and I needed to choose a realtor to work closely with our family and help my mother sell her house of 40 plus years, as well as find a new home to purchase. What started out as a call by chance ended up being the beginning of a wonderful personal and professional relationship with Paula Clark. Paula worked hard for us from the start by assessing my mother's house, handling all the aspects of home selling, and made herself available to fill any request no matter how large or small. She is a true real estate professional willing to go the extra mile to make her clients happy, and also a kind, caring person who realizes that selling a home or buying a new one is a big milestone for anyone. We have been lucky to have her as our realtor." Tracey, Old Tappan, NJ
Paula: Thank you very much for the high level of service you have provided for me on the sale of my condominium. You went above and beyond my expectations, and I greatly appreciate all that you have done for me. You're an exceptional Real Estate Agent and I wish nothing but the best for you. S. Sellas, Mahwah, NJ
"Working with you is always a pleasure. We know that you go the extra mile to make your clients know they are in good hands. You have a strong knowledge of real estate market and we really enjoy working with you!"- Starr, River Vale, NJ
Thank you so much for being my "Guardian Angel." What you do for me is over and above the "Line of Duty" and you have no idea how much I appreciate it." Berg, Edgewater, NJ
"Thank you very much for your professional service in the sale of our Saddle River home. Your efforts went above and beyond, especially since I live a long distance from New Jersey. You constantly kept your eye on the ball, and your hands-on approach took care of every detail, big and small, to bring the property to closing. Real estate sales are measured in results, and your personal touch made the process smooth and reliable." Mancuso, Waltham, MA
Hi Paula; It is very satisfying to me knowing how diligent you have been to sell each of the five properties on Motiva's behalf. Your efforts have resulted with four to of the five already sold with the fifth one scheduled Friday. Thank you for all of the hard work and diligent efforts to market and sell these properties. Steve Santoro, Motiva Enterprises
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