Scott's NJ Blog - Luxury Homes/Top Towns

Cranford Blood Drive Is Looking for Donors

July 30, 2021 by Scott Gleason

According to Cedars-Sinai, patients in hospitals all over the country need a total of 38,000 blood transfusions every single day. Type O-negative blood and Type AB plasma are compatible for all blood types. They are also the most in demand. But donation centers happily accept all blood and plasma types. To help fill in some of the shortage, the Community Center plays host to the Cranford Blood Drive next week and they need donors to sign up as soon as possible.

What: Cranford Blood Drive
Where: Cranford Community Center (220 Walnut Ave)
When: Tuesday, August 3rd, 2021, 1 pm to 7 pm
Contact: (732) 616-8736 (text only) or Schedule Appt Online

Cranford Blood Drive

One pint of blood provides the potential to save up to three lives. Any healthy person aged 17 or older may donate as long as they meet the height/weight restrictions. Sixteen-year-olds may donate as well as long as they obtain written permission from their parent or guardian and meet the height-weight restrictions.

If you feel ill for any reason on the day of donation, please stay home and rest up instead. Otherwise, you will be turned away at the site. Anyone with a cold or flu must wait at least three days after symptoms go away before they may donate blood. If you received a new piercing or tattoo anywhere on your body in the last three months, you cannot donate blood. Certain medications also eliminate you from eligibility to donate. So, please let the donation center know exactly what medications you currently take (including over-the-counter medication).

Schedule an Appointment

While the center welcomes walk-ins for the blood drive, they highly recommend scheduling an appointment instead. Fortunately, they make it very easy to do so. Simply visit the NY Blood Center’s donor portal here. Choose an available appointment time, provide the required info, and you are good to go.

Westfield National Night Out 2021

Do not forget. Next Tuesday (August 3rd), the Westfield Police host Westfield National Night Out 2021. Go to the North Side Train Lot between 6 pm and 9 pm to meet our amazing first responders. Free food, live music, and fun activities await all who visit. Save a life in the afternoon at the blood drive in Cranford. Then meet the people who save lives every day in Westfield at night. That sounds like a completely satisfying day to me.

Scott Gleason, CRS at RE/MAX Select, Luxury Homes

Westfield National Night Out 2021

July 23, 2021 by Scott Gleason

We love our first responders (police, firefighters, EMTs, etc.). They are the ones that run to help us when we need them. But they work better with the community’s assistance to report and solve crimes. This keeps us safe. Therefore, it benefits us to get to know our first responders, including our police force. That is why they are hosting Westfield National Night Out 2021 on August 3rd at the North Side train lot.

What: Westfield National Night Out 2021
Where: North Side Train Lot
When: Tuesday, August 3rd, 6 pm to 9 pm
Admission: FREE
Contact: City of Westfield (908) 789-4040

Westfield National Night Out 2021

In the Beginning

National Night Out originated back in 1984 as a way to bring law enforcement, neighborhood watch programs, and the community at large together. When we know one another and work together, our community is much stronger for it. Getting to know one another creates a bond that cannot be broken. Today, more than 16,000 communities across the United States (including those in 191 New Jersey cities) participate in their own National Night Out events each year.

Schedule of Events

Westfield National Night Out 2021 wants to make up for last year’s cancellation due to COVID. Organizers will introduce police, fire, volunteer rescue, and public works personnel to event guests. They also plan on offering plenty of free food for everyone, a DJ, live demonstrations, and tons of giveaways. See what a police car, ambulance, and fire truck all look like inside. For the kids, there will be face painting, finger painting, and many more child-friendly activities to enjoy. And all of this comes free of charge to everyone who shows up. So, come meet your first responders in person and tell them “thank you” for all they do.

Scott Gleason, CRS at RE/MAX Select, Luxury Homes

Tips for Buying a Home in the Summertime

July 16, 2021 by Scott Gleason

Westfield is currently under a Heat Advisory from the National Weather Service. Make sure you stay hydrated, stay out of the sun, and stick to air-conditioned rooms to help keep you cool. Also, check on your elderly family, friends, and neighbors. But the temps outside are not the only thing that heats up during the summer. Our Westfield real estate market is on fire. Keep these tips in mind if you plan on buying a home during the summertime.

The competition among buyers for Westfield area homes is stiff. Be prepared. Follow my tips for successfully buying a home in the summertime.

Tips for Buying a Home in the Summertime

Fewer Choices/More Competition

In the past, sellers occasionally found themselves in the enviable position of fielding multiple offers. But in today’s market, we see this happening more and more. Less inventory means that home buyers may find themselves in a bidding war against other buyers for properties. It helps to hire a Westfield REALTOR® who knows the market inside and out when buying a home in the busy summertime months. Use their expertise and connections to find the right property for you.

Flexibility Equals Success

When faced with this much competition and a dearth of inventory, it may take a little longer to find a Westfield property than you might imagine. Also, some sellers may need extra time to find new accommodations after the sale. (This happens more than you think.) So, consider offering a short rent back option with your offer to allow the seller to stay on the property for a few weeks after close while they look for their next home. That may mean finding temporary accommodations for yourself in the meantime. But it could also be the catalyst that makes the seller choose your offer over others.

Offer Best and Final Upfront

The days of lowballing are out. Yes, everybody wants a good deal. But when buying a home in Westfield right now, you cannot afford to lowball. Many sellers receive enough offers on their property that they can afford to be picky. Some may not even counter or allow you to provide a higher offer. They will simply move on to the next offer instead. So, make sure to present your best and final offer upfront.

Get Your Financials in Order First

For my last summertime home buying tip, I will tell you what you should do first: talk to your lender. Unless you plan on paying for a Westfield home in cash, you need financing. Why? Sellers want to see a pre-approval letter and proof of funds with a buyer’s offer. The home loan process takes time, especially when you need to get approval through underwriting. I strongly suggest that you start this process with your lender even before you start looking for Westfield homes. Then, you will be ready to present a strong offer as soon as you find a home you love.

Scott Gleason, CRS at RE/MAX Select, Luxury Homes

Downtown Westfield Sidewalk Sale 2021

July 9, 2021 by Scott Gleason

Many of our annual events went “virtual” last year. Girl’s Night Out, clothing drives, and even beloved holiday events like Santa Claus Lane included severe restrictions to allow them to take place. Fortunately, we see life returning somewhat back to normal thanks to the percentage of people receiving their COVID-19 vaccinations. Our local small businesses bared the brunt of economic hardship last year. It is time to show them some love again. So, grab your checkbooks and head out to the Downtown Westfield Sidewalk Sale 2021 next week.

What: Downtown Westfield Sidewalk Sale 2021
Where: Various Shops Downtown
When: July 15th to 18th, 2921
Contact: Westfield Town Hall (908) 789-4040 or via email

Downtown Westfield Sidewalk Sale 2021

It is time to shop ’til you drop, people. Between July 15th and July 18th, our local boutiques take it to the streets. Stroll the Downtown Westfield area for huge discounts and great deals on everything from clothing to accessories, home decor and more. If you get hungry while walking around, stop at one of our amazing dining establishments for a light breakfast, quick lunch, or a hearty dinner to cap off the day. Most of these deals are only available during the Sidewalk Sale event. So, make sure that you hit up your favorite boutiques before July 18th ends or you miss out on these fantastic bargains until next year.

Sweet Sounds Downtown Music Festival Update

This year’s Sweet Sounds Downtown Music Festival got off to a bit of a rocky start. This past Tuesday was supposed to start the festival off with great live music around the downtown area. But Mother Nature made other plans. After a postponement to Wednesday due to thunderstorms, officials canceled it altogether for the week as Westfield remained on thunderstorm watch. But, barring any more push back from Mother Nature, the festival continues next Tuesday, July 13th. So, do not despair. Make Downtown Westfield your destination for a weeknight date night any Tuesday this July and August.

Scott Gleason, CRS at RE/MAX Select, Luxury Homes

Westfield Area Fireworks and 4th of July 2021 Celebrations

July 2, 2021 by Scott Gleason

Summertime means that there are so many outdoor activities to enjoy in Westfield right now. The New Jersey Festival Orchestra performed for a live sold-out crowd last weekend. The Sweet Sounds Downtown Music Festival starts up next week. And this weekend, we celebrate our nation’s independence. Here are some of the places you can see Westfield area fireworks this 4th of July weekend.

Still trying to finalize plans for this holiday weekend? There are several public July 4th celebrations to chose from this weekend, including Westfield area fireworks shows.

Westfield Area Fireworks and 4th of July Celebrations

Cranford

If you find yourself in Cranford tonight (July 2nd), they plan on an early Independence Day fireworks show at Nomahegan Park (1107 Springfield Ave). On July 4th, they host their annual Firecracker 4-Miler and Fun Run at Nomahegan Park. Find out more about the 4-Miler and how you can participate by visiting the Cranford Jaycees’ website here.

Scotch Plains

Scotch Plains celebrates the 4th on the 3rd, with a free Westfield area fireworks show at the Scotch Hills/Shady Rest Country Club. After last year’s disappointing cancelation due to COVID, this beloved event returns this year in full force. If Mother Nature decides to rain on July 3rd (which is a possibility), organizers set a rain check date of July 5th. So, keep an eye on the weather forecast this weekend.

In Westfield

There is power in words. And the words our founding fathers put forth to declare our independence from England in 1776 were powerful indeed. The Westfield Historical Society plans on celebrating Independence Day with a flag ceremony accompanied by the national anthem. Then, listen to a recording of President Kennedy’s reading of the Declaration of Independence. Following that, hear a live reading of the Bill of Rights. Finally, listen to a recitation of President Lincoln’s second inaugural address. Hear his powerful words spoken as he took office a second time, just over a month before his assassination. This is one way to truly appreciate the importance of Independence Day in the United States.

Scott Gleason, CRS at RE/MAX Select, Luxury Homes

Sweet Sounds Downtown Music Festival 2021

June 25, 2021 by Scott Gleason

This weekend, the New Jersey Festival Orchestra brings Broadway to Westfield. But that marks just the beginning of a summer filled with beautiful melodies. Because in July, the Sweet Sounds Downtown Music Festival 2021 begins. Three different concerts. One cool location. All summer long.

What: Sweet Sounds Downtown Music Festival 2021
Where: Downtown Westfield
When: Every Tuesday from 7 pm to 9 pm in July and August
Admission: Free

Sweet Sounds Downtown Music Festival 2021

Make Tuesday night your date night and downtown Westfield your destination every week this summer. Not only do you get to enjoy a lovely evening with your special someone, but you also get to listen to live concerts as well. Each week brings new musical acts to three separate stages set up around the downtown area. In case of inclement weather, organizers plan on postponing the concerts until Wednesday.

Stage A features a new Jazz act each week. Stage B offers up various music styles (from big band to bluegrass to Motown and everything in between). Then, venture over to Stage C to rock out to rock music. There really is something to satisfy everyone’s musical tastes. In fact, enjoy up to three different genres in one night. And this is all free of charge. Now that is a bargain you cannot pass up.

Concert Schedule

Stage A (137 Central Ave)

Eric Mintel (Classic Jazz) – July 6th
Don Braden/Karl Latham Big Fun(k) (Funky Jazz) – July 13th
Radam Schwartz (Jazz Organist) – July 20th
Carrie Jackson (Jazz Vocalist) – July 27th
Joe Taino Group (Latin Jazz) – August 3rd
Glen Alexander & Shadowland (Jazz Rock) – August 10th
Mike Neer’s Steelonious (Steel Guitar) – August 17th
Mauricio de Souza (Latin Jazz) – August 24th
Thos Shipley (Jazz Vocalist) – August 31st

Stage B (125 Quimby St)

Swing Town (Big Band) – July 6th
Exit Row Band (favorites from the 60s to today) – July 13th
Kolor Blind Band (R&B) – July 20th
Elena & Boo Demolition String Band (Country/Bluegrass) – July 27th
Bradford Hayes (Jazz Saxophonist) – August 3rd
Lonesome Pines (Country Rock) – August 10th
Big Bruce & The Messengers (Motown/R&B) – August 17th
BD Lenz The All Stars (Funk/Motown) – August 24th
Nikki Briar & The Sweet Briar Band (Country) – August 31st

Stage C (Foundation Park, South Ave & Westfield Ave)

Landing Party (Rock Cover Band) – July 6th
Better Late (Rock) – July 13th
Radio Star (Rock) – July 20th
Justin Lerner Group (Rock) – July 27th
Soul Seduction (R&B) – August 3rd
Valencia Music School (Rock) – August 10th
Governor Radio (Rock) – August 17th
NJ Workshop for the Arts (Jazz/Rock) – August 24th
Save Mary (Rock) – August 31st

Scott Gleason, CRS at RE/MAX Select, Luxury Homes

NJ Festival Orchestra Brings Broadway to Westfield

June 18, 2021 by Scott Gleason

Back in March of 2020, Broadway shut its doors amid COVID concerns. Originally, theater owners believed this would only last a few short weeks. However, the shutdown turned out to be several months long. Finally, after over a year of going dark, Governor Cuomo announced that the Great White Way will officially come back to life in mid-September of 2021. But who wants to wait that long? With how successful Glo Downtown turned out to be earlier this year, Westfield residents are itching for more artistic entertainment. Thankfully, the NJ Festival Orchestra brings its take on classic Broadway music to Westfield on Saturday, June 26th.

Have you missed going to Broadway shows this past year? Can't wait until September to visit the Great White Way? The NJ Festival Orchestra brings Broadway to Westfield on June 26th, 2021 with their summer concert in the park.

What: NJ Festival Orchestra Performs “Back to Broadway”
Where: Hertell Rear Gardens (241 E Dudley Ave)
When: Saturday, June 26th, 2021 7:30 pm
Admission: $35 (General Admission) to $65 (VIP Seating)
Contact: New Jersey Festival Orchestra Box Office

NJ Festival Orchestra Brings Broadway to Westfield

For one night only, the NJ Festival Orchestra performs a very special concert in the park. These artists have been eagerly awaiting their return to play for a live audience. And you get to enjoy an intimate performance like no other. Conductor David Wroe guides the NJFO as they accompany acclaimed Broadway sopranos Julie Benko and Paige Faure through classic music from Broadway, movies, and TV.

The concert will be held in the Hertell rear gardens. If it rains, organizers plan on moving the concert indoors to Westfield’s First United Methodist Church on E Broad St. Either way, ticket holders will see a live performance of Broadway professionals on June 26th. And you will not want to miss it.

Tickets for Back to Broadway

General admission tickets cost $35 per person. This grants you seating out on the lawn. Guests are encouraged to bring blankets and/or lawn chairs for their comfort. But for a special treat, pay $65 per person and receive the VIP treatment. This reserved section provides comfortable seating near the stage. All guests may bring their own refreshments if they like. Event organizers ask that you wear a mask if you have not been vaccinated yet for your safety as well as the safety of others. Purchase your tickets online at the NJFO box office here.

Scott Gleason, CRS at RE/MAX Select, Luxury Homes

Westfield Mini Grand Prix 2021: Off to the Races

June 11, 2021 by Scott Gleason

At the end of April, we saw a return of weekend activities on Quimby Street. With COVID-19 cases dwindling in New Jersey, Governor Murphy relaxed mask mandates late last month. So, we should see even more fun summertime events taking place in our fair city. Unfortunately, the weatherman predicts a bit of a soggy weekend. But that will not hinder the very first Westfield Mini Grand Prix. Why? Because they set up tents to protect you from the elements.

Watch scaled-down versions of NASCAR's finest race around an indoor track at the very first Westfield Mini Grand Prix on Sat, June 12, 2021.

What: Westfield Mini Grand Prix
Where: Quimby Street
When: Saturday, June 12th, 1 pm to 5 pm
Admission: Free
Contact: Extreme Party Racing (609) 458-6143 or via email

Westfield Mini Grand Prix 2021

Enjoy all of the high-octane, adrenaline-inducing fun of a NASCAR racetrack but on a 1/18th scale. Extreme Party Racing invites all ages to participate in the races. And it costs nothing to join. Organizers provide the cars and the controls. You bring the energy. Instead of using handheld controllers, racers steer their cars around the 20′ x 20′ track using a real steering wheel and throttle. This only enhances the racing experience.

Each race pits six different cars (and racers) against one another. Expect to see spin-outs, bumping, and maybe even a crash or two. After all, “rubbin’ is racin'”. These miniature race cars reach speeds of up to 11 mph. That is the equivalent of 200 mph for their full-sized counterparts. A random prize drawing between all race winners takes place at the end of the afternoon.

Admission into this inaugural Westfield Mini Grand Prix is absolutely free. You do not need to register ahead of time, either. Simply come to Quimby Street before 1 pm on Saturday, June 12th and tell them you want to race. Gentlemen (and women)…start your engines!

Scott Gleason, CRS at RE/MAX Select, Luxury Homes

June 2021 Market Update

June 8, 2021 by Scott Gleason

Curious about your home’s value?

Please click below for the market update of interest to you:

Fanw o od

Westfield by Grade School:

Scott Gleason scott@luxuryhomesnj.com

RE/MAX SelectLuxury Homes for Sale in Westfield

Determining the Fair Market Value of Your Westfield Home

June 4, 2021 by Scott Gleason

The real estate market is an ever-changing landscape. Currently, sellers wield the upper hand. But that does not mean that buyers will pay an astronomical amount simply because you asked for it. For a successful transaction, you must list your Westfield home at a price appropriate for the current market. Fair market value (FMV) helps sellers determine this price.

Fair Market Value

How to Calculate Fair Market Value

You must take into account several factors to come to a proper FMV. They change from month to month and sometimes even from week to week. Talk to your Westfield REALTOR® about how the market is behaving right now. Look at how much buyers paid for recently sold homes in your neighborhood recently. Look at the price-per-square-foot of homes similar to your own to provide you with an estimated value of your property. Hire an appraiser to assess the value of your Westfield home. All of these variables go into your calculation of FMV.

Fair Market vs Appraised Value

The appraised value is slightly different than the FMV. Banks use the appraised value of a home as part of their consideration in whether to approve or deny a mortgage loan. However, they will not approve a loan with an appraised value below the sale price. When that happens, buyers need to come up with money out of pocket to make up the difference or sellers need to lower their price. If neither side comes to an agreement, the sale falls through. Then, no one wins. But the FMV may end up higher than the appraised value. This happens in more popular neighborhoods. Again, discuss your options with your Westfield REALTOR® before deciding on what to list your property for when you decide to put it on the market.

Scott Gleason, CRS at RE/MAX Select, Luxury Homes