Chatham Farmers’ Market takes their philosophy of “Putting Health on Your Table” seriously.  Every Saturday from 8 am to 1pm, a dedicated group of farmers, bakers and artisans present a dazzling selection of locally sourced fresh food, flowers and handcrafted home items at the Chatham Borough train station located off Fairmount Avenue.  The farmers’ market has been in full swing all summer long, and will continue until Saturday, November 20.  Local businesses from Chatham and throughout New Jersey gather each Saturday to help keep the garden in our Garden State. 

A wide array of baked goods includes everything from crunchy biscotti to beautifully decorated cupcakes and homemade bread.  Gourmet foods, organic produce, fresh fish, top quality meat, flavored coffees and teas, and even specialty pickles and kettle corn are for sale, as well as unique items for the home.  Candles, soap and fresh cut flowers are among the non-edible offerings. 

For more information and a complete list of participating vendors, visit the Chatham Borough Farmers’ Market website at http://www.chathamboroughfarmersmarket.org/.

The weekly farmers’ market is just one of the many events that make Chatham a great place to live.  One visit to the charming downtown area is enough to convince many people to relocate here.  A quick commute to Manhattan, a central location near many local business campuses, and involved citizens who are passionate about the future of Chatham are some of the top reasons our residents cite for settling here. 

At Turpin Real Estate, we can assist you if you’re interested in finding Chatham homes for sale, or if you need information about anything related to New Jersey real estate.  Visit our newest office at 186 Main Street after you’re done shopping at the farmers’ market—just like our fellow business people under the tents at the train station, we’re open on Saturdays!

Directions to Turpin Real Estate in Chatham: As you leave the train station parking lot, make a left on Fairmount Avenue to a right on Main Street/Route 124 to our office at 186 Main Street.  It’s about a five-minute walk.

For some homeowners, living on a cul de sac street is an amenity that has extra appeal.  Fewer cars traveling on the road translate to surroundings that are measurably safer and quieter.  This Bernards Township Colonial is located a peaceful cul de sac in the desirable Canterbury Estates neighborhood of other fine homes.  The enclave offers trails for walking and bike riding as well as a foot path leading to the local elementary school.

Enduring style characterizes the all-brick Colonial in the Basking Ridge section of the township, from its classic Georgian lines and black shutters to the exterior dentil molding and a white columned portico entry.  Inside, a sunny floor plan of 12 rooms contains five bedrooms and three-and-one-half baths.  The 1.4 acre property surrounding the home is enhanced with green lawns, a bluestone front walkway, a rear terrace enclosed by brick knee walls, mature trees, perennial gardens and specimen plantings.

The equally inviting interior is sun-splashed and filled with sophisticated gathering areas.  French doors connect the living room to the family room, and the dining room to the study, making it easy to transform the layout as needed.  Of special note is the spacious center island kitchen fitted with cherry cabinets, granite countertops and upper-end stainless steel appliances.  In keeping with the open flow of this Colonial, a roomy dining area and inviting sun room adjoin the chef’s kitchen.

Located in its own wing is a second story master suite containing four rooms, including a bed chamber, sitting room, dressing area and private master bath.  Four more bedrooms are generously sized and offer plenty of closet space.  The upstairs also features a rear staircase to the kitchen and laundry room on the main floor.  Rounding out this luxurious Colonial is an attached three-car garage and an unfinished lower level.

Strategically located near a network of local highways and the Lyons train station for rail service to Manhattan, this Canterbury Estates residence is among the finest of Basking Ridge homes for sale in today’s market.

Walk to All From Center Hall Colonial
For Sale in Chatham Borough

In your search for New Jersey real estate you may have heard about a home’s “walkability factor,” which is a way to determine just how favorable a home’s location is to walking. An updated center hall Colonial gets high points for its walk score since it is located a short distance from Turpin’s Chatham Office as well as walking distance to the train station, downtown shops and restaurants.

A picture perfect Colonial in every way, it is located in a quiet tree-lined neighborhood of other gracious homes, adding to the serenity of the landscaped .19-acre setting.  Built in 1946, the three bedroom, one-and-one-half bath layout has been carefully updated through the years, yet maintains much of its mid-century appeal.  Detailed moldings, built-in cabinetry and lustrous hardwood floors define character-filled gathering spaces on the main floor including the formal living room, formal dining room and den.  A newly updated kitchen is fitted with stainless steel appliances—including a wine cooler—sparkling granite counters and a tile floor.  Casual get-togethers can be enjoyed in a cheerful family room on the finished lower level. 

Upstairs, a charming window seat at the top of the staircase is an inviting spot for reading a favorite book.  Three bedrooms with spacious closets and a full bath grace the second story, where there is access to the walk-up attic. 

Exterior upgrades include new windows, a new driveway edged in Belgium block, a newer paver front walkway and rear patio plus a newer roof and central air conditioning system. 

Keeping a home’s walkability factor in mind appeals to a growing number of buyers who are interested in the physical, social, economic and environmental benefits that come from leaving their car in the driveway. 
Not many New Jersey homes for sale offer all the amenities that this Chatham house provides, from its enhanced walkability to its sophisticated interior.  For the homebuyer who wants to be in the heart of everything Chatham offers, yet still have a quiet back yard for outdoor entertaining, this Colonial is very accommodating.

While the news media seems to have gone on a feeding frenzy over the recent report on existing home sales, many of us in the industry were not that surprised. After all, most people who purchased a home at virtually any time during the spring months would have timed it to close by the end of June in order to take advantage of the tax credit. Please see what our friend, Steve Harney, of Keeping Current Matters has to say about the recent NAR home sales report.

http://kcmblog.com/2010/08/26/everybody-calm-down-armageddon-is-not-upon-us/

Classic Equestrian Property in New Vernon.

Less than an hour from the bustle of Times Square is a peaceful New Vernon equestrian property set on 7.88 acres.  A rare equestrian offering in New Vernon—and on the market for the very first time– the residential portion of this Morris County horse property is a 1952 center hall Colonial conceived by noted architect James Timpson, Sr.  Taking in sweeping seasonal views of Silver Lake, this gracious home has a timeless feel, thanks in part to the classic exterior fashioned from handcut argillite stone from Bucks County, Pennsylvania.  While its traditional façade is filled with character, additions made in the 1980s enhance the original portion of this New Vernon horse property. 

Highlights of the four bedroom, five-and-one-half bath Morris County equestrian property include wide board pumpkin pine flooring, four fireplaces and reproduction hardware from Ball & Ball.  Beautifully maintained and updated through the years, it shows pride of ownership throughout.

Equestrian amenities within the pastoral acreage comprise three windswept pastures surrounding a four-stall horse stable, tack room and turnout shed.  The New Vernon section of Harding Township has long been recognized for its wonderful collection of Morris County horse properties and equestrian facilities.  A drive through the region reveals places like Logans Brook Equine Center and Crewe Hill, both located in New Vernon; Lord Stirling Stables in Basking Ridge and Cima Stables in Bedminster, to mention just a few. Riders will find local horse facilities for boarding, lessons and training, as well as equestrian pursuits including hunting, jumping and dressage.

Approximately 50 miles of riding trails maintained by the Harding Township and Green Village Bridle Path Association are located in Harding Township.  The New Vernon section of Harding Township was named “One of the Most Expensive Zip Codes” in the United States by Forbes magazine in 2006.

This New Vernon horse property is a remarkable offering that hasn’t been available for 58 years.  It represents a singular opportunity to become immersed in Morris County’s equestrian lifestyle.

Using architectural elements that call to mind the modern home designs of Frank Lloyd Wright, the exterior of this striking contemporary home in the borough of Bernardsville, New Jersey is characterized by wide overhanging eaves, sets of horizontally-placed windows and simple, clean lines. Numerous windows and sliding glass doors illuminate the floor plan with sunlight while providing an easy indoor-outdoor flow in this contemporary home.  An outstanding 17-room floor plan includes six bedroom suites with private baths and three powder rooms.

This impressive contemporary home is situated on two lots totaling 11 acres. The property is enhanced with established perennials and specimen trees which are protected by fencing.  An outdoor tennis court and an indoor pool are further amenities.

Like many contemporary home designs, the first floor offers the ease of single-story living in two separate wings. Dual mahogany doors reveal an entry foyer linking these private and public areas.

The public wing of this modern home features a step-down great room with three window walls and a towering fieldstone fireplace.  Opening from the foyer is a formal dining room leading to a chef’s kitchen.  Custom cabinets from Neff enhance the contemporary spirit of this appealing room, while a roomy pantry, laundry room and access to the four-car garage are nearby.  The kitchen is open to a family room, the perfect spot for casual gatherings. 

Also in the public wing—and a feature that sets this home apart– is an indoor Gunite swimming pool, a design element that lends a resort atmosphere to this delightful modern home.

On the opposite side of this contemporary home is the private wing, where five bedrooms each provide an adjoining full bath.  Among the bedrooms is a four-room master suite with his-and-hers baths and a comfortable sitting room.

Finished living space on the lower level includes the modern home’s second family room, an exercise room, bath with sauna, workshop, home office, craft room and wine room with a display and tasting area.  Finished and unfinished storage areas complete this level.

Bernardsville is one of central New Jersey’s most sought-after locations.  With a rich history, natural beauty and access to a network of local and interstate highways, the borough attracts residents who appreciate a convenient locale and rarified atmosphere.

Resort-Style Contemporary Home in Mendham Borough.

The phrase “vacation at home” applies perfectly to this outstanding contemporary home in Mendham Borough, New Jersey.  With an in-ground pool, one-bedroom pool house and Ken Dye-designed golf facilities, the lush 9.32 acre surroundings rival those of an upscale resort.  Distant views and professionally landscaped grounds provide a verdant backdrop for the custom-built three bedroom, four bath modern home set at the end of a long circular drive.  No need to fight weekend traffic to a far-flung destination since this contemporary home’s central location in Mendham Borough offers an easy commute thanks to a network of easily accessible highways.

A wide open floor plan takes in panoramic views of preserved state land and gently rolling hillsides from many oversized windows, glass doors and the entertainment-sized brick terrace spanning the rear of this stunning contemporary home.  Lavish entertaining areas are balanced by private spaces, resulting in a comfortable, inviting ambiance throughout.  Highlights include a generously-scaled living room with a floor-to-ceiling fireplace, formal dining room, granite and cherry chef’s kitchen, opulent master suite, and finished lower level with distinct media viewing, exercise and recreation rooms.

Adding to the long list of desirable features characterizing this property is a spacious, sunlit pool house containing a living room, full kitchen, bedroom and two full bathrooms.  Ideal for summer parties or visiting guests, the pool house overlooks the heated freeform pool with integrated spa.  Of special note are the golf facilities offering two par three or four holes and challenges such as sand traps and bunkers.  An irrigation system enhances the professional-grade course right at your doorstep.  Municipal utilities add to the carefree spirit of this inviting home.

Mendham Borough is one of New Jersey’s most-coveted addresses.  Located in Morris County just minutes from New York-bound commuter service in neighboring Morristown, Mendham is famed for its picturesque landscapes, historic village center and refined estate homes. 

Bold Contemporary House on the Bernardsville Mountain.

While Bernardsville is an area known for its many traditional residences and classic estates, there are numerous modern homes available the area, a fact that often takes buyers by surprise. Case in point: this finely-crafted modern home on a prime five-acre location atop the Bernardsville Mountain in central New Jersey. Equal measures of bold design and innovative architecture define the spectacular 20-room floor plan which is enhanced by four fireplaces, hardwood floors, high beamed ceilings, dramatic window walls and generously-dimensioned rooms.

Natural surroundings are beautifully maintained to showcase specimen plantings, rock walls, winding garden pathways and a charming lily pond. An entertainment-sized wraparound deck features a sunken hot tub and a gazebo for outdoor enjoyment. Classic wood clapboard siding and a wood shingle roof lend timeless appeal to this modern home set along a private country road. Distant winter views of the Somerset Hills and a long drive enhance this magical setting.

Built in 1988 with a seamless 2002 addition created by Brandeis Masselli, this contemporary home’s up-to-the-minute feeling is testament to its fine design. An open floor plan contains five bedrooms, four full baths and four powder rooms. Exceptional gathering spaces including an expansive foyer, a living room with walls of windows and a floating fireplace, and a dramatic loft space featuring beamed ceilings located above the kitchen and family room. An opulent first floor master suite contains a sitting room, balcony, fieldstone fireplace and two walk-in closets.

In the chef’s kitchen, complimentary design elements include modern cabinetry, granite countertops, a work island and tiered breakfast bar island, stainless steel appliances and soaring vaulted ceilings. An adjoining dining area takes design cues from a light-filled conservatory with its atrium glass walls and ceilings.

Remarkable amenities on the lower level include an indoor swimming pool, state-of-the-art 20-seat home theater, game room, wine cellar and exercise room. Completing the layout is a convenient guest or in-law suite with its own entrance. This modern home at 46 Post Kennel Road also offers a three-car garage with automatic openers and a Bernardsville luxury home with a Far Hills mailing address.

Much has been made about the poor home sales numbers from May. Nationally home sales plunged 30% in May, and regionally New Jersey saw a decline of 23% over May 2009, according to local market guru, Jeff Otteau. And so, while the recovery process reverses course both nationally and in our fair state, it is somewhat of a surprise, albeit a pleasant one, to see that Chatham real estate and Madison real estate are actually on the rise!

Indeed, Madison and Chatham home sales actually rose in the period from May 1, 2010 to July 1, 2010 about 32% above the same period last year. The icing on this good news cake is the fact that during that same period new listings were down slightly. Fewer homes coming to market- more homes going under contract: these are the trends that make for a market recovery!

For a current look at Chatham homes for sale click here, and for a look at Madison homes for sale click here.

Careful preservation, sensitivity to the environment and stately residences are the hallmarks of Hartley Farms, a planned residential community and national landmark in Harding Township, New Jersey.  Nationally recognized for its success in preserving properties of historic interest, it encompasses 171 acres of bucolic woods, meadows and hayfields near the village of New Vernon.

Listed on both the National and State Registers of Historic Places, Hartley Farms is the former estate of Marcellus Hartley Dodge (1881-1963), owner and chairman of the Remington Arms Company, and his wife, Geraldine Rockefeller Dodge. The Dodges moved to the farm the same year they were married, 1907.  Presidents Wilson, Hoover, and Eisenhower were all visitors to the estate, although not during their presidencies.

During its existence as a private estate, Hartley Farms housed the principal office of the Remington Arms Company, a firm that supplied 69% of the guns and ammunitions used by U.S. and Allied troops during the first and second World Wars.  The estate’s Polo Fields were the site of strategic discussions with the War Department on the design and shipment of these arms.  It was also the stage for the world’s largest one-day dog show (Morris and Essex Kennel Club), which was hosted by Geraldine Rockefeller Dodge on the Polo Fields from 1927-57.  The Morris and Essex Dog Show was actually the predecessor of today’s Westminster Dog Show.

After the death of Mr. Dodge in 1963, the property was purchased by Dr. Adrian T. Platt and his wife, Helen Hartley Platt, who maintained it as a private family estate and farm until 1997.  It remains the largest individually-owned historic district in Morris County, and the third largest in New Jersey.

In 1998, new homes began to be built in this remarkable enclave, and to date 14 exceptional residences have been constructed.  The Hartley Farms Plan adheres to architectural codes and a constitution of design guidelines used to influence the size and style of each dwelling.  A total of 32 land parcels sized from three to seven acres are contained within 122 acres.  Each lot configuration is designed to maintain open views and harmonize with the natural landscape and topography. A stunning example of just such a home, currently offered for sale, can be viewed on our website by clicking here.

Preserved land within the vast acreage includes a 14-acre polo field for recreational use, hedgerows, antique barns, meadows and vintage estate outbuildings.  Remington Forest is an ancient beech and oak forest for migratory birds which is protected against further development by the New Jersey Audubon Society.  A network of walking trails and several sports fields enhance the rolling vistas.

Hartley Farms is located three miles from Morristown or Madison, with train and bus service to New York City available locally.  Access to Route 287 is three miles to the north; Route 78 is eight miles to the south.  New York City is twenty-eight miles east and can be driven in an hour or less.  Newark Liberty International Airport is 25 minutes away, and Morristown Airport can accommodate private aircraft. Today, a limited number of scenic land parcels are available at Hartley Farms for those interested in making this historic estate community their home.