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Thursday, May 14, 2015

As Baby Boomers are on the Move: Here is a new consideration

A friend of mine sent me this article and I was intrigued as it represents a consumer-centric appeal to retirement community development. The article was Written by Sonya Stinson. Originally published as part of Northwestern MutualVoice on Forbes.com.
COMMUNITY LIVING: WHY MORE RETIREES ARE CHOOSING COHOUSING

Alice Alexander is getting ready to move into her new home, and she can hardly wait. At 55, she isn’t moving into any ordinary apartment or condominium; rather, it’s a cohousing community in downtown Durham, North Carolina, that offers both privacy and a sense of community, all in one place.

The Durham Central Park Cohousing Community comes with all sorts of benefits likely to appeal to Baby Boomers. A library, farmers’ market, YMCA, parks, shops, restaurants and even a senior care center are within walking distance. The renowned Duke University Medical Center is a short, free bus ride away. And Alexander is joining a close-knit community where residents can enjoy meals and activities in a beautifully appointed shared space.

“It’s an amazing, wonderful experience—and I haven’t even lived in it yet,” Alexander said.

Her cohousing (or “coho”) community is one of hundreds that have sprouted up in recent years as part of a burgeoning nationwide movement. These living arrangements combine private apartments or homes designed around a community space that typically features a kitchen, a large dining room, laundry facility and recreational area for social events.

How Cohousing Works

According to Alexander, who became executive director of the Cohousing Association of the United States while the development of her own community was still under way, cohousing is a grassroots movement. Residents usually take part in the design of the communities, which are tailor made for the needs, interests and values of each group.

The Durham Coho is a community of Baby Boomers, some of whom are retired, some still working. Its design was driven by the founding members’ dissatisfaction with suburban anonymity and their desire to reduce their carbon footprint by sharing resources.

The residents also have a common interest in civic engagement. The group supported the development of the adjacent Durham Central Park, including donating $1,000 to help build a small music venue. Some members also are actively involved in other downtown revitalization efforts.

Benefits of Cohousing

For retirees, cohousing offers a more autonomous alternative to traditional retirement communities, which often impose strict rules on residents, Alexander said. Instead of having a housing board make decisions from the top down, cohousing community members usually decide issues by consensus.

Another benefit is that the typically smaller, more energy-efficient homes, along with the sharing of community resources, can lower the cost of living for each resident. Seniors who need caregiving can even save money by going in together to hire those services, Alexander noted.

Cohousing communities are managed by the residents themselves, who also take part in maintaining the property. Individual skills and interests help determine the assignment of duties. Unlike most homeowner and condo associations, which have elected boards of directors, there is no hierarchical management structure in cohousing.

One of the qualities Alexander finds most attractive about cohousing is the “sense of belonging, of caring and being cared about” the lifestyle provides.

Choosing a Cohousing Community

If you’re considering joining a cohousing group, it’s important to choose a community that’s right for you. Think hard about the following questions:

Do the goals of the group reflect your values?
Do the location and the size of the community match your preferences?
What is the group’s process for making decisions and sharing responsibilities?
Will the community will be intergenerational or for retirees only—and which works best for you?

The website Cohousing.org contains some useful resources to help you consider these options.

“Every community has its own needs, and only the residents themselves know what is truly best for them,” Alexander said.

For retirees who want to age in a community while maintaining their sense of independence, cohousing may be the ideal choice.


Written by Sonya Stinson. Originally published as part of Northwestern MutualVoice on Forbes.com.



Mark Slade
Keller Williams
917.797.5059
Good Homes



Selling a Maplewood/South Orange/Millburn/Short Hills area home involves many steps and having an experienced Maplewood New Jersey Real Estate Agent and Realtor®, specializing in the Bedroom Communities of New York City in Essex/Union County— Millburn, Short Hills, Montclair, West Orange, South Orange, Livingston, Maplewood, Springfield, Summit, Madison, Chatham, Scotch Plains, Fanwood, Cranford and Westfield--by your side will make the transaction run a lot smoother. I would love to be your Maplewood/South Orange New Jersey Area Real Estate Professional! I assist both buyers and sellers in the Bedroom Communities of New York City, mostly served by NJ Transit’s Mid-Town Direct Train Lines, offering commutes of 45minute or less to NY Penn Station, with either the purchase and or sale of residential real estate.



As an Accredited Buyer’s Agent (ABR), I have received special training to guide and educate you through the entire home buying process. From start to finish, I listen to your needs and desires in what you would like and take the information you give me to find you home. My GO-TO team can provide you the best in Real Estate advice with regard to attorney choices, Home Inspectors and Mortgage Loan Officers



As your Maplewood/South Orange/Millburn/Short Hills/Essex/Union County New Jersey listing agent I am well versed on as your local expert in all things in the Maplewood and South Orange area Real Estate Market. You can expect personalized service that includes a detailed consultation on how to best position your Mid-Town Direct home to be competitive in today’s market with training to provide my clients with an in-depth Advanced Comparative Market analysis, and advice on staging. As my office’s technology officer as well as both a Zillow Platinum Premier and Trulia Premier agent, I use the latest and most up-to-date marketing methods to get your home in front of as many buyers as possible. Being your New Jersey Real Estate Agent and Realtor ® not only involves just finding the home or selling the home, but being your guide, negotiator, advisor and advocate and making sure that your needs and goals are met. Being your New Jersey Essex/Union County area Realtor® (with a little bit of Morris County thrown in for good measure) is one of my truest passions, and “Helping You Find Your Dream Home” is my number one priority.

Mark Slade

Monday, May 11, 2015


4-Day PETITE EQUESTRIAN PROGRAM (PEP)

WHO: Ages 3 –6 (groups broken down according to age & experience, if any)
WHAT: Participants will learn safety on and around the ponies, grooming techniques, basic riding skills, and other primary horsemanship skills. While not a Horseback Riding program per se, the program includes an exciting riding component whereas a portion of each session is dedicated to actual riding, learning how to properly mount, hold the reins and control the horse/pony at the walk and some trotting. Sessions aim to develop confidence and motor-coordination skills while providing a supportive, fun, and non-threatening environment. This can be a participatory program for parents who so desire. The perfect preparation for private or semi-private lessons for eager young aspiring equestrians! Repeat participants are welcomed as PonyShare constantly introduces new games, challenges and course materials. A winner by many...furlongs, this program tends to book fas t. Register today!

WHEN: Mon-Thu: July 13th July 16th
TIME: 3:00 pm – 4:30 pm
FEE: PEP: $190 (Check only, made out to 'PonyShare')
WHERE: Memorial Park in Maplewood
MAXIMUM: 20 Registrants (no exceptions)

Note: Children should dress appropriately for weather conditions with strong hiking shoes, jeans or sweatpants, fluids, and on the last day a cut carrot or apple.

4-Day PONY GROOMING& RIDING PROGRAM (PGRP)

WHO: Ages 7 –13 (groups broken down according to age & experience, if any)
WHAT: This unique program provides an exciting and inexpensive hands-on introduction to the wonderful world of equines in a fun-filled and non-threatening atmosphere. PonyShare uses camp-trained ponies and cobs, smaller and easier to handle than their larger equine counterparts. After reviewing safety rules, materials previously covered, and learning new subject matters, participants are assigned their size-related ponies or cobs. Small groups of 4-5 children are formed and work under the tutelage of a qualified and motivated counselor. Some of the horsemanship matters covered include: Safety on and around horses, basic anatomy, equine senses, body language, grooming, the tack and harness, driving the miniature horse, English & Western styles, barn management and careers in the industry. A portion of e ach session is dedicated to actual riding. This program enhances team work, self-esteem and camaraderie while helping develop a genuine appreciation and respect for the animals.

WHEN: Mon-Thu: July 13th July 16th
TIME: 4:45 pm – 6:45pm
FEE: PGRP: $230 (Check only, made out to 'PonyShare')
WHERE: Memorial Park in Maplewood
MAXIMUM: 20 Registrants (no exceptions)

Note: Children should dress appropriately for weather conditions with strong hiking shoes, jeans or sweatpants, fluids, and on the last day a cut carrot or apple.
REGISTRATION:

There are registration forms at Town Hall in Maplewood (574 Valley Street) for both PEP and PGRP programs. You will not be able to register through CommunityPass. Our office hours are 9am - 4:30pm. If you have any questions, you may call the office at 973-763-4202.



Mark Slade
Keller Williams
917.797.5059
Good Homes



Selling a Maplewood/South Orange/Millburn/Short Hills area home involves many steps and having an experienced Maplewood New Jersey Real Estate Agent and Realtor®, specializing in the Bedroom Communities of New York City in Essex/Union County— Millburn, Short Hills, Montclair, West Orange, South Orange, Livingston, Maplewood, Springfield, Summit, Madison, Chatham, Scotch Plains, Fanwood, Cranford and Westfield--by your side will make the transaction run a lot smoother. I would love to be your Maplewood/South Orange New Jersey Area Real Estate Professional! I assist both buyers and sellers in the Bedroom Communities of New York City, mostly served by NJ Transit’s Mid-Town Direct Train Lines, offering commutes of 45minute or less to NY Penn Station, with either the purchase and or sale of residential real estate.



As an Accredited Buyer’s Agent (ABR), I have received special training to guide and educate you through the entire home buying process. From start to finish, I listen to your needs and desires in what you would like and take the information you give me to find you home. My GO-TO team can provide you the best in Real Estate advice with regard to attorney choices, Home Inspectors and Mortgage Loan Officers



As your Maplewood/South Orange/Millburn/Short Hills/Essex/Union County New Jersey listing agent I am well versed on as your local expert in all things in the Maplewood and South Orange area Real Estate Market. You can expect personalized service that includes a detailed consultation on how to best position your Mid-Town Direct home to be competitive in today’s market with training to provide my clients with an in-depth Advanced Comparative Market analysis, and advice on staging. As my office’s technology officer as well as both a Zillow Platinum Premier and Trulia Premier agent, I use the latest and most up-to-date marketing methods to get your home in front of as many buyers as possible. Being your New Jersey Real Estate Agent and Realtor ® not only involves just finding the home or selling the home, but being your guide, negotiator, advisor and advocate and making sure that your needs and goals are met. Being your New Jersey Essex/Union County area Realtor® (with a little bit of Morris County thrown in for good measure) is one of my truest passions, and “Helping You Find Your Dream Home” is my number one priority.

Mark Slade

Saturday, May 2, 2015

Living in Maplewood: YMCA sponsors Healthy Kids Day 2015 in Maplewood's Memorial Park

They couldn't have picked a better day for kids to enjoy and learn about being healthy!






Mark Slade
Keller Williams
917.797.5059
Good Homes



Selling a Maplewood/South Orange/Millburn/Short Hills area home involves many steps and having an experienced Maplewood New Jersey Real Estate Agent and Realtor®, specializing in the Bedroom Communities of New York City in Essex/Union County— Millburn, Short Hills, Montclair, West Orange, South Orange, Livingston, Maplewood, Springfield, Summit, Madison, Chatham, Scotch Plains, Fanwood, Cranford and Westfield--by your side will make the transaction run a lot smoother. I would love to be your Maplewood/South Orange New Jersey Area Real Estate Professional! I assist both buyers and sellers in the Bedroom Communities of New York City, mostly served by NJ Transit’s Mid-Town Direct Train Lines, offering commutes of 45minute or less to NY Penn Station, with either the purchase and or sale of residential real estate.



As an Accredited Buyer’s Agent (ABR), I have received special training to guide and educate you through the entire home buying process. From start to finish, I listen to your needs and desires in what you would like and take the information you give me to find you home. My GO-TO team can provide you the best in Real Estate advice with regard to attorney choices, Home Inspectors and Mortgage Loan Officers



As your Maplewood/South Orange/Millburn/Short Hills/Essex/Union County New Jersey listing agent I am well versed on as your local expert in all things in the Maplewood and South Orange area Real Estate Market. You can expect personalized service that includes a detailed consultation on how to best position your Mid-Town Direct home to be competitive in today’s market with training to provide my clients with an in-depth Advanced Comparative Market analysis, and advice on staging. As my office’s technology officer as well as both a Zillow Platinum Premier and Trulia Premier agent, I use the latest and most up-to-date marketing methods to get your home in front of as many buyers as possible. Being your New Jersey Real Estate Agent and Realtor ® not only involves just finding the home or selling the home, but being your guide, negotiator, advisor and advocate and making sure that your needs and goals are met. Being your New Jersey Essex/Union County area Realtor® (with a little bit of Morris County thrown in for good measure) is one of my truest passions, and “Helping You Find Your Dream Home” is my number one priority.

Mark Slade
Mark Slade, ABR,  Local Expert - Agent with KELLER WILLIAMS Mid-Town Direct Realty

Friday, May 1, 2015

Have to get ride of things, I'll Hazard(ous waste) a guess! Essex County Annual Hazardous Waste Elimnation Day



If you’ve got a pile of “hazardous waste” sitting around at home, Saturday is your day to get rid of it safely and responsibly.

Essex County – in partnership with the Essex County Utilities Authority – will sponsor their annual Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day on Saturday, May 2, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Old Essex County Hospital Center, 125 Fairview Ave., in Cedar Grove.

The program is free, but only open to Essex County residents. Materials for disposal should be placed in containers that are smaller than five gallons or 10 pounds. Residents are not charged when they bring materials, but they must provide proof of residency at the site. Commercial businesses may not drop off materials.

County workers will be accepting several types of “hazardous waste” at the event, including:

Pesticides and herbicides
Paint thinners and solvents
Barbecue propane tanks
Automotive fluids such as antifreeze, motor oil and steering fluid
Pool chemicals
Florescent light bulbs
Lithium and NiCad batteries
Products containing mercury
Gasoline and kerosene
Household cleaning products
Hazardous materials not being accepted include: latex paint (which can be dried and disposed of with regular waste), unlabeled or unidentifiable materials, asbestos, regulated medical or infectious waste, commercial or industrial waste, empty containers, explosives, munitions, ordnance or highly reactive materials, household batteries (AA, AAA, C, D, 9V), smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms.

“There are some materials that should be removed from our regular waste stream because of their hazardous nature,” stated Essex County Executive Joseph DiVincenzo Jr. “This collection day provides our residents a place to properly and safely dispose of contaminants, protecting our precious environment for future generations.”

For more information, call the Essex County Utilities Authority at 973-792-9060, or visit www.ecuanj.com




Mark Slade
Keller Williams
917.797.5059
Good Homes



Selling a Maplewood/South Orange/Millburn/Short Hills area home involves many steps and having an experienced Maplewood New Jersey Real Estate Agent and Realtor®, specializing in the Bedroom Communities of New York City in Essex/Union County— Millburn, Short Hills, Montclair, West Orange, South Orange, Livingston, Maplewood, Springfield, Summit, Madison, Chatham, Scotch Plains, Fanwood, Cranford and Westfield--by your side will make the transaction run a lot smoother. I would love to be your Maplewood/South Orange New Jersey Area Real Estate Professional! I assist both buyers and sellers in the Bedroom Communities of New York City, mostly served by NJ Transit’s Mid-Town Direct Train Lines, offering commutes of 45minute or less to NY Penn Station, with either the purchase and or sale of residential real estate.



As an Accredited Buyer’s Agent (ABR), I have received special training to guide and educate you through the entire home buying process. From start to finish, I listen to your needs and desires in what you would like and take the information you give me to find you home. My GO-TO team can provide you the best in Real Estate advice with regard to attorney choices, Home Inspectors and Mortgage Loan Officers



As your Maplewood/South Orange/Millburn/Short Hills/Essex/Union County New Jersey listing agent I am well versed on as your local expert in all things in the Maplewood and South Orange area Real Estate Market. You can expect personalized service that includes a detailed consultation on how to best position your Mid-Town Direct home to be competitive in today’s market with training to provide my clients with an in-depth Advanced Comparative Market analysis, and advice on staging. As my office’s technology officer as well as both a Zillow Platinum Premier and Trulia Premier agent, I use the latest and most up-to-date marketing methods to get your home in front of as many buyers as possible. Being your New Jersey Real Estate Agent and Realtor ® not only involves just finding the home or selling the home, but being your guide, negotiator, advisor and advocate and making sure that your needs and goals are met. Being your New Jersey Essex/Union County area Realtor® (with a little bit of Morris County thrown in for good measure) is one of my truest passions, and “Helping You Find Your Dream Home” is my number one priority.

Mark Slade
Mark Slade, ABR,  Local Expert - Agent with KELLER WILLIAMS Mid-Town Direct Realty