Expert advice and insight on local, regional and national real estate news and trends.
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Unique This Week: 26 Maple Road, Chatham Twp., NJ

February 28, 2011
By Turpin Real Estate

26 Maple Road, Chatham Twp., NJExceptional Colonial in Chatham Township

A beautifully-kept Colonial in Chatham Township offers about 2,900 square feet of inviting living space on three levels.  Set on .34-acre, the property backs up to protected state parkland for an additional sense of privacy.  Its location on a cul-de-sac street is another outstanding feature.

Custom built in 1981, this Colonial has been exceptionally well maintained throughout the years, and features a new chef’s kitchen, new baths, a new roof and new siding.  An inviting floor plan of five bedrooms and two and one half baths is joined by an attached two-car garage. 

Bright, light-filled rooms characterize the spacious nine-room floor plan.  Gathering spaces are neutrally decorated and offer amenities such as hardwood floors, traditional molding treatments, an abundance of windows and a thoughtfully finished bonus room on the lower level.  The updated kitchen is appointed with stainless steel appliances including a Dacor stove and dining area.  This home’s flexible layout offers a large fifth bedroom which could alternately be used as a family room or a new master suite. 

Located in the Meyersville section of Chatham Township, the home is surrounded by open, level grounds with a deck and a hot tub for outdoor enjoyment.  This welcoming Chatham Township home for sale is a short drive from Chatham’s lively downtown for shopping, dining and Midtown Direct train service to New York City.

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A Weekend of Art Exhibits in Bernardsville, NJ

February 25, 2011
By Turpin Real Estate

This is a great time of year to add art appreciation to your calendar, and there are some exciting options to get you started in downtown Bernardsville this weekend. 

Design Domaine Gallery is hosting “Winter Magic,” an exhibition of 75 works of art showcasing varied artistic viewpoints of the Northeast’s winter scenery.  This is the last weekend to view this exhibit, and visitors on Saturday can enjoy complimentary wine and cheese from 1 to 6 p.m.  Among the featured artists of “Winter Magic” are Andrew Orr, James McGinley, Jill Olivito, Frank Cannas, Chris Coyne, Gordon Haas, John Reilly, Arville Pustrom-Uus, Ramona Dooley, Ty Hodanish, Diana Gibson, Doreen Tighe, Patrick Antonelle, David Ohlerking and Frank Cannas. 

Design Domaine is located at 67 Mine Brook Road (Route 202), and its gallery has 250 original works of art on display at all times.

J. M. Stringer Gallery at 21 Claremont Road in Bernardsville is presenting the final days of its “Garden of Life” exhibit.  Saturday is the last day to appreciate the recent works of contemporary artist John C. Traynor, a celebrated oil painter born and raised in New Jersey.  Traynor has local ties, spending his early years in Chester and Mendham and attending the Delbarton School in Morristown.  The gallery has assembled a collection of Traynor’s striking landscapes, life studies and floral paintings.

The artist recently joined the company of other acclaimed artists including Norman Rockwell, Al Hirschfield and Everett Raymond Kinstler when the Salmagundi Club of New York awarded him the Salmagundi Medal of Honor and Merit, their highest award for artistic achievements.  Traynor currently lives and works in his New Hampshire studio.

The Somerset Hills is known as an area where artistic and cultural events are readily available.  This appeals to local residents who enjoy a relaxed yet sophisticated country lifestyle.  Those seeking information about Bernardsville homes for sale are welcome to call or visit the Bernardsville Office of Turpin Real Estate at 163 Morristown Road, just a short distance up the road from these two exceptional art galleries.

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50 Notable Sales: Moggy Falls Farm, Far Hills, NJ

February 24, 2011
By Turpin Real Estate

Moggy Falls Farm is a glorious expanse of Far Hills real estate sited on approximately 14 acres of rolling property.  This magical estate was sold by Pam Goss in the Far Hills Office for $5.6 million in 2005.  The stone manor home’s unique name comes from its location near Moggy Hollow, a 29-acre wooded stream valley at the neighboring Leonard J. Buck Garden.  Several cascading waterfalls on the acreage add to the serene mood of the surroundings.  Moggy Falls Farm was created for the owners in 1997 to replicate the look of the area’s exquisite mansions.

Vast living, gathering and entertaining spaces are found within the ornate 29-room floor plan.  Interior highlights include detailed millwork, exposed ceiling beams set into high ceilings, four fireplaces, arched doorways, hardwood and stone flooring and custom finishes designed by Butler’s of Far Hills.  Over 13,800 square feet of interior space provides five bedrooms, seven full baths and three powder rooms.

The classic approach –a long, private drive leading to a circular entry—showcases the majestic architecture of this imposing home.  Steeply pitched rooflines capped in wood shingles and the home’s massive stone faced center point flanked by dual wings give the structure an imposing appearance.  Linking the interior and exterior are large stone terraces and porches for outdoor entertaining.  These outside spaces take in sweeping views of manicured lawns, flowering tress and perennial gardens.  The elaborate pool complex features a gazebo, stone patio and meandering stone walkways.

Inside, a stunning collection of rooms includes an elaborate chef’s kitchen, observatory, garden room encased by stone walls, conference room, first floor master suite, in-law suite, and wine cellar.  Secondary bedrooms include the maid’s quarters with a living room, bedroom, full bath and kitchen.  A finished attic and lower level contain more square footage, such as the lower level’s media and recreation areas.  A home for the ages, Moggy Falls Farm is an outstanding example of New Jersey real estate.

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Unique This Week: Chatham/Shunpike Field, NJ

February 23, 2011
By Turpin Real Estate

Rolling Hills Neighborhood Borders Chatham’s Shunpike Field

Chatham’s Rolling Hills neighborhood is partially bordered by Shunpike Road, where the town’s Recreation Department maintains an excellent outdoor facility.  At Shunpike Field, a large playground for the younger set (and their parents) is a wonderful find. 

Located adjacent to the sports fields is a newer playground that replaced a wooden castle-like structure a few years ago.  As the weather gets nicer, toddlers and older children will be found enjoying the slide or climbing on the colorful equipment and oversized boulders at this popular site.  Nearby picnic tables are perfect for a meal or snack.  The playground here is adjacent to sports fields, so it’s also a good place for younger children to explore while older siblings have soccer practice or a baseball game.

Residents of Rolling Hills can easily walk to the playground and playing fields, adding to the many reasons why this neighborhood has maintained its highly desirable status.  Beautifully-kept homes in the community line the winding streets in a picture perfect setting.  If you’re interested in Rolling Hills Chatham homes for sale—or one of the other remarkable area neighborhoods—please contact our Chatham Office at 186 Main Street.

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50 Notable Sales: Tandabrook Farm, Pottersville, NJ

February 22, 2011
By Turpin Real Estate

Tandabrook Farm, Pottersville, NJListed by Turpin’s Oldwick office for $5.95 million and sold out of that office as well, Tandabrook Farm near Pottersville in Washington Township represents the pinnacle of Washington Township real estate as well as equestrian property sales.

A rare offering in New Jersey real estate, especially in terms of its size and scope, Tandabrook Farm presents 121 acres of prime land including a 5,500 square foot main residence, a 1,900 square foot manager’s residence, and an 11-stall main barn with living quarters above.  There are two separate three-stall barns and seven in-and-out barns dotting the property.  Lessons or recreational riding are handled easily in an indoor riding arena with all-season cushioned riding surface, outdoor jumping arena, outdoor sand dressage arena, numerous cross-country jumps and fourteen fenced-in paddocks.  As a working farm, amenities include miles of riding trails, a four-bay garage for tractor storage, 2,500-hay bale production fields and a compost area.  Constructed in 1998, this New Jersey equestrian estate is a world-class facility.

Sellers George and Linda Tucker, who have since relocated down south, recall the transaction.  “Over the years we have purchased or sold four homes with Turpin Real Estate in Morris and Somerset County. Catherine Weinstock has represented us in three of these sales. The highlight was Catherine’s successful marketing of our horse farm in Pottersville about four years ago in a very difficult market. It was a unique property that would appeal to a very limited number of people in the equine community. In a short period of time, the Turpin office found a qualified buyer that would carry out the traditions of our beloved farm, and the purchasers have even become friends!”

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Unique This Week: Hedgerows, Chester, NJ

February 21, 2011
By Turpin Real Estate

Hedgerows: An Exceptional Chester Neighborhood

Nestled into a peaceful setting just minutes from the historic village of Chester is Hedgerows, a premier neighborhood of homes replicating New England architecture.  A true vision of Americana, the finely-detailed residences offer bright, open floor plans ideal for entertaining.  Just three tree-lined streets make up Hedgerows, and each street is named for local tree species dotting the landscape such as red oak and sugar maple.

Most of the homes were built during the 1990s, and properties are situated on about an acre or more.  Current listings of Hedgerows homes for sale can be previewed here.

Each home in Hedgerows displays equal measures of character and warmth.  Classic layouts are designed with high ceilings, expansive rooms, hardwood floors, custom carpentry and elegant period appointments.  The exteriors are equally authentic to the Colonial time period, featuring cedar shake and clapboard finishes.  These timeless home styles are appropriate for any style of furnishing, from traditional to ultra-modern.

Hedgerows is a standout community in Chester real estate; its residents enjoy living in this lovely established neighborhood that is convenient to so many local amenities.  Discover more about Hedgerows in Chester by reaching out to one of our local offices in Mendham, Far Hills, Bernardsville, Oldwick or Chatham.

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Chatham Antique Show

February 18, 2011
By Turpin Real Estate

Chatham Antique ShowToday and Saturday, February 19, the Chatham United Methodist Church is hosting their 55th Annual Antiques Show and Sale at the church on 460 Main Street.  There is a $6.00 admission fee, and the hours are 11am to 8pm on Friday and 10am to 4pm on Saturday.

This highly-anticipated event will showcase the collections of over 35 antique dealers.  A glass repair specialist will be on hand both days, while there will be appraisals on Saturday from 11am to 3pm for those who wish to determine the value of one of their antiques or collectibles.

In addition to the antiques, there will be a variety of outstanding gourmet meals available throughout the weekend.  Church members worked closely with noted food author and executive chef John Hadamuscin to prepare lunch from noon to 2pm and dinner from 5:30 to 7:30pm on Friday.  On Saturday, a brunch from 11am to 1pm is followed by high tea from 2:30 to 4pm.

Parking is available behind the church in a large lot, and the show can be entered via the rear entrance.  The Antiques Show and Sale is a benefit organized by the United Methodist Women, and proceeds will go toward worthy missions.

The Chatham United Methodist Church is located just down the street from our Turpin Office at 186 Main Street.  Feel free to drop by before or after the antique show to learn about Chatham homes for sale and the many advantages of living here.

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HGTV highlights Turpin Listing for Architectural Video

February 17, 2011
By Turpin Real Estate

Old Turnpike Road, Tewksbury Twp., NJThis spectacular 1817 historic masterpiece was recently featured on a HGTV video as a classic example of Federal style architecture.  This delightful offering has been thoughtfully updated throughout the years, making it one of the most beautiful antique homes for sale in Tewksbury Township.  The main house contains five bedrooms, four bathrooms and two powder rooms, while a newly-renovated one-bedroom guest house has a full bath and kitchen.

The 48± acre farmland assessed estate features rolling hills and breathtaking countryside views which are further enhanced by a pool, tennis court, paddle tennis court, stone courtyard with formal English garden, and a multitude of fruit and specimen trees.

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Unique This Week: Rolling Hills, Chatham, NJ

February 16, 2011
By Turpin Real Estate

There’s Something About Rolling Hills in Chatham Township

In the attractive neighborhood called Rolling Hills, homes are among the most-coveted in Chatham Township.  In fact, during the past few years a good number of buyers purchased homes here and replaced them with larger, more modern residences.  The result is an appealing mix of older and newer homes, each with their own distinctive character. 

What makes Rolling Hills so desirable?  There are several good reasons:

  • A truly scenic neighborhood setting of tree-lined streets amid gently rolling properties measuring about a half-acre or so.
  • Diverse architectural styles, from some of the community’s original ranches and split-levels to newer Colonials and luxury homes.
  • The central location near downtown Summit as well as outdoor recreation such as the Fairmount Country Club, Colony Beach Club, Noe Pond and parks.
  • Safety is always a consideration for those with young children, and these buyers like the fact that only local traffic travels along the winding streets.
  • The Rolling Hills Association offers membership and social events like play dates, parties and nights out to residents.  This enhances the friendly feeling of the neighborhood, and makes it a welcoming place for newcomers.

Contact our Chatham Office for more information about home sales and market conditions in Rolling Hills.

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50 Notable Sales: Sky Acres Farm, Bedminster, NJ

February 15, 2011
By Turpin Real Estate

Sky Acres Farm, Bedminster, NJTurpin Real Estate sold Sky Acres Farm in Bedminster for over $5 million in 2007.  Turpin’s  Oldwick Office was involved in the sale of this exquisite equestrian property set on 50 acres of preserved land in the heart of the Somerset Hills’ celebrated Hunt Country.  Located near the banks of the Black River, this property was a unique offering among Bedminster homes for sale that year.

The centerpiece of Sky Acres Farm is a gracious farmhouse built in 1999.  This home was designed by Jack Beyer of Beyer Blinder Belle Architects and Planners, the same group that planned the restoration of many famous New York City landmarks like Grand Central Station and South Street Seaport.  Classic exterior details such as cedar siding, a slate roof and front and rear porches enhance the welcoming feel of this inviting farmhouse.

A long winding gravel drive crosses over a rustic fieldstone bridge to the farm’s private setting which overlooks fenced pastures and pastoral countryside.  Extensive fieldstone walls, bluestone walkways and patios, and professional landscaping are enhanced by mature trees, native plantings and perennial borders.

An open floor plan features a gourmet kitchen, dining and living rooms anchored by fireplaces, two home offices, a spacious mud/breakfast room and laundry room.  Among the three bedrooms is a privately-situated master suite on the first floor.  Three full baths and one powder room serve this country property. 

Additional interior features call for hardwood floors throughout, custom paneling and cabinetry, central air conditioning, electric thermal heat, central vacuum and a back-up generator. 

As a true working equestrian farm, Sky Acres Farm has several outbuildings such as a six-stall horse barn with wash stall, tack room with washer/dryer, half bath and outside pressure washer.  Other dependencies are a two-bedroom cottage, a three-car detached garage, tractor shed with heated office and a chicken coop.

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