For listings of Basking Ridge homes for sale or homes anywhere in Morris or Somerset County visit my site at www.AdrienneFrancis.com
or call me at 201-259-4449.

Basking Ridge has an area of approximately 25 square miles and a population of 27,000.  It is lush with parks, bike and walking trails, golf clubs, scenic country roads and a very charming and historic center of town. This section of town is lined with homes and shops that date back to the revolution. Basking Ridge is not only extremely charming, it’s also very sophisticated, with fine restaurants, golf and country clubs, many local private schools, a public school system that is one of the best in the state, local shopping and with close proximity to the Bridgewater Mall and the renowned Mall at Short Hills just a short drive away.  Nature and history abound with nearby historic Colonial Morristown, “Jockey Hollow” National Park, the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge and Lord Stirling Park, to name just a few

Basking Ridge is about 25 minutes from Liberty International Airport, 45 minutes to New York City and the Jersey Shore is but an hour away. It has easy access to Routes 78, 202, 206 and 287 just minutes away. Transportation into New York City is accessed by nearby highways, bus servic as well as New Jersey Transit Mid-Town Direct Service from both the Basking Ridge and Lyons train stations.  Numerous pharmaceutical and communications corporations are close by and make Basking Ridge and excellent choice to live and work.

Basking Ridge has something for everyone. First time home buyers, those downsizing to a luxury townhouse overlooking the New Jersey National golf course or those desiring an estate property, it’s all here in Basking Ridge.

To see the video on Youtube visit here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ey8FMHw29h8

Tags: Uncategorized // Add Comment »

In spite of the snow that still seems to be everywhere, this really is the Spring home selling season. It’s time to get your home on the market before a dozen more homes are competing for the same spot. The first time and move up buyers tax credits expire the end of April. A buyer needs to be under contract by April 30th and closed by June 30th and the home for a move up buyer must be under $800,000. This does not leave you much time to get your home on the market and buyers are out there buying now! Basking Ridge homes are receiving multiple offers and bidding wars at many price levels. We really do not have much inventory at many price points. If you want to stand out, your home should be on the market now, not in another month or two when everyone else is. So start sprucing up, painting and de-cluttering. Hiring a stager or having your agent help you stage is the best thing you can do to sell your home quickly. Pull up old wall to wall carpeting and have your floors finished. Take down as much wall paper as you can and paint with subtle colors.
No one wants to deal with taking up carpets an taking down wallpaper. If you don’t do it, your home will sit longer and very possibly sell for much less than if you had done the work yourself. Waste no time to reap the most benefits from this fabulous buying frenzy happening now!
Happy home selling!
If you have any questions about buying or selling your home, give me a call at 201 259-4449 or email me at Adrienne@AdrienneFrancis.com.

Tags: Uncategorized // Add Comment »

Yes, indeed! Inventory is dwindling and at just about every price point up to 1.5 million we are seeing multiple offers and bidding wars in Basking Ridge. Very little inventory has come onto the market, much of it due to the abundance of snow we still have, so the little inventory we have left is moving quickly. Basking Ridge has lots to offer including some of the best schools in the State and people seem to know that and want to live here. If you are considering selling your home and would like to know what it is worth in this “new” market, just give me a call and I would be happy to assist you. If you are buying a home or particularly a townhome here, FHA regulations and requirements are changing daily so it is important to get a pre -approval and learn about the delays that you possibly did not anticipate. You can also read my blog post from yesterday about what those changes are. They afffect everyone buying with an FHA mortgage. You can reach me at (201) 259-4449 and you can visit my website for more information about buying or selling a home www.AdrienneFrancis.com

Tags: Uncategorized // Add Comment »

The FHA’s mortgage requirements are changing faster than the speed of sound. Where 3 1/2% was enough to put down on an FHA mortgage, the requirement is now going to increase. (first they give it – then they take it away? They are supposed to be helping, right?) AND if you are considering a townhouse, all condo associations (required by law as of February 1, 2010) must now supply a large amount of information to the FHA in order to be “certified” by them as an approved association so that a buyer can receive FHA financing to live in that development. The FHA wants to be sure these associations have enough funds and they are financially solvent in the event the buildings or roads require major repairs. To date, only 3 communities in the “Hills” in Bedminster have this certification. Not all mortgage companies will even be able to afford to be involved with this process as I am told it can run up to $1,000 per association for a mortgage company to approve them and there are probably 50 or more associations within the Hills, both Basking Ridge and Bedminster combined. So you must have a large and strong mortgage company giving you your pre-aproval. If you have not yet been pre-approved or if you were approved 6 months ago, you should do it again as the game has changed. It will also mean that the “closing package” that the associations send the attorneys will also go up considerably as someone has to pay for the time and reams of paper the FHA requires. (Can’t they do this on line?)

With the first time and move up buyers tax credits due to expire April 30th, (and everyone is making the mad dash to buy right now) and with these new FHA requirements in place, we are told it will hold up the mortgage approval process considerably.
Once you decide on a community in which to live and you put in an offer, if the community is not certified, the process does not move quickly. This combined with the already complicated
“Truth in Lending” statements that were recently revised, and which also take up to 10 days longer per closing, we are suicidal, to say the least. So, to re-cap, if you have not been pre-approved, get pre-approved. If you are looking to get in under the tax credit date, you need to get motivated now. The mortgage process will eat up what little time is left.

If you have 20% to put down, you are ahead of the game but buying a townhome in an approved community will still take a lot longer. And the Truth in Lending time extension has nothing to do with how much you put down. That’s an extra 10 days no matter what mortgage company you work with. If you have any questions, I would be happy to answer them or direct you to a qualified mortgage representative who can. My cell number is 201 259-4449.

Tags: Basking Ridge Homes For Sale // Add Comment »

This incredibly charming home was built in approximately 1938 but all it’s character has been beautifully maintained and restored. From arched doorways and leaded glass windows, original arched built-ins and it’s white washed brick facade and period garage doors,charm is everywhere inside this home and out. With three large bedrooms and two and one half baths, it has ample size for starting a family or those looking to downsize. Have huge family gatherings in the extra large dining room and it flows perfectly into the kitchen and living room. Two french doors lead from the dining room to a slate floor sun room that looks out over a private yard. With hardwood floors throughout, this home is truly one of a kind in Basking Ridge.

If you would like more information on this home, contact Adrienne Francis at 201-259-4449.

Tags: Basking Ridge // Add Comment »

If you are searching for a home for sale in Basking Ridge, you’ll be happy to know that your potential commute to work or school has many options. You can enjoy the beauty of rural life and all the traditions of a vintage town yet find a career that pays handsomely in the city, such as Manhattan.

If you already work or are going to work in New York, consider Basking Ridge real estate or any of the Bernards Township area for a great lifestyle for your family. The temptation is to find housing in the city, but consider exercise in wide open spaces, nature’s  beauty all around you, culture, tradition, history and that good ol’ home town feeling that you can’t get anywhere else.

Here are some facts about the easy commute from Basking Ridge to the city, where big careers are made. The New Jersey Transit train is only a 38 mile trip into New York from Basking Ridge and you can let someone else do the driving, while you sleep or get a bit of your work done on the way. For fast flights out of town, the Newark Airport is only 25 miles away. If you work in Pennsylvania, the border is only 40 minutes by car and Connecticut is approximately 75 miles one way.

For buses, there are routes to 42nd Street and the Super Express lines are less than an hour from Basking Ridge.

Routes 78, 80 and 287 make driving easy into the city as well.  You can also reach Brooklyn and Long Island through one of these routes.

In addition to commuting for work, many college students commute and enjoy living at home in Basking Ridge. Route 287 will take you from Basking Ridge to Princeton University in less than one hour. The College of New Jersey is just over an hour away via car as well. Berkeley College Campus in Newark is less than 35 minutes. A 15 minute drive takes you to the College of Saint Elizabeth. There are many more within driving distance and the student can stay at home with the family.

Think of all the reasons commuting is important to buying a home in Basking Ridge. You enjoy the home town rural feel, but perhaps you want to kick it up a little on the weekend. Take a quick trip into New York’s finest Broadway plays or take in a music concert. Experience New York at its finest without living with its inner city issues.

You can have the best of both worlds without taking away your freedom. Before you buy a home, talk to your Basking Ridge real estate specialist for details on commuting and all the amenities that the Basking Ridge area holds.

If you would like more information on purchasing a home for sale in Basking Ridge, call Adrienne Francis today at 201-259-4449

Tags: Basking Ridge // Add Comment »

The Flavor of Americana with a Twist of Panache

Settled in colonial times, Basking Ridge has all the charm of an American colonial village rich with history of our founding nation. It lies within Bernards Township in Somerset County, New Jersey and offers a fabulous dichotomy of vintage life and modern conveniences, grand old standing masonry structures as well as the finest modern architecture.  There are great attractions and fabulous career incomes, deep family values as well as entertainment and culture.

Walk its streets and find the stone masons’  mastery from as far back as the 1700’s. Even George Washington walked these roads and ate here under the now 600 year old white oak tree in town.

On the other hand, there are many new Basking Ridge home communities with gorgeous new floor plans and all the newest amenities and for the most exquisite tastes.

If you are considering a home near your career in New York, there is no easier way to live elegantly yet commute easily to work. Buying a home in Basking Ridge or the Bernards Township area will give you the quiet and regal taste of New England style living, the spacious nature, parks, exercise and traditional living for your family. However your commute to your dream career, Broadway, nightlife and New York culture is less than 40 minutes away.

Your children have their choice of the finest colleges in the country that dwell less than an hour away. They can go to Princeton, University of New Jersey and many more and still reside at home, where you can mind their blossoming college years. Or you can easily visit them at their fine university only a stone’s throw away.

There is no doubt that Basking Ridge and its surrounding Bernards Township offer a wealth of deep heritage and finery for families to enjoy. Contact your Basking Ridge luxury real estate expert for guidance to your New England dream come true.

Come and enjoy the experience! Search all homes for sale in Basking Ridge right on our website or Call Adrienne Francis today at 201-259-4449 for more information on purchasing a home in Basking Ridge

Tags: Basking Ridge // Add Comment »

Preparing for Princeton: The Brick Academy

Basking Ridge, New Jersy

Your browser may not support display of this image.

Buy a home in Basking Ridge, and you will, most assuredly, hear about the Brick Academy. The Academy was built in 1809 and originally used to prepare students for Princeton University, which is very close to Basking Ridge in Somerset County. It was also called the Basking Ridge Classical School, where boys attended preparatory classes for developing into some of the finest men in the Nation. When considering your own child’s future education, where better to raise them than near this prestigious college?

Some of our greatest senators of New Jersey came from the Basking Ridge area and were College of New Jersey (Princeton University) graduates, and received their earlier education at the Basking Ridge Classical School. They were: Samuel Lewis Southard (1787 1842) Theodore Frelinghuysen (1787 1961), William Lewis Dayton, (1807-1864) and Robert Field Stockton (1795 1865).

Now this fine, vintage building stands as a museum by the Historical Society of the Somerset Hills. Steeped with heritage, this museum stands in downtown Basking Ridge as a reminder of our proud beginnings.

The Unique black iron pump located in the flower garden of the Brick Academy: In 1948, this pump served as an emergency source of water for residents. An excavating shovel broke the town’s only water main, causing 115 families to be without water in their homes. The pump was in the backyard of Bensley Field’s grandfather, Dr. Frank L. Field, whose house still stands at 454 Route 202 in Bedminster. Dr. Field has his residence and medical office there.

The history in Basking Ridge and the surrounding Somerset County is piled high with American memories. Come back to the American traditions!

Search homes for sale in Basking Ridge just like a real estate agent. If you would like more information about purchasing a home in Basking Ridge, Call Adrienne Francis today at 201-259-4449.

Tags: Basking Ridge // Add Comment »

Golfing Near Basking Ridge

Whether you are an avid golfer or a weekend warrior, all golfers love great greens. If you are in the market to buy a home in Basking Ridge and you golf, you are very fortunate. Some of the most beautiful courses in the nation reside near Basking Ridge in Bernards Township.

Today, we feature the Basking Ridge Country Club. After a great round of golf with friends, enjoy the Bamboo Grille overlooking the polished lawns. You can cozy up indoors around the fireplace or enjoy summer dining out on the large deck with gorgeous gardens and big umbrellas to boot.

The Fair Winds Fine Catering Company host weddings and other fine events overlooking perfectly manicured fairways. An exquisite backdrop for that perfect and unforgettable day.

The course features a 258 acre haven of beauty with its 18-hole, par 71 course. The course was designed with all players in mind and is impressively renovated constantly for pristine beauty and challenge to the golfer. The ninth hole features the Halfway house for a quick snack and a complete Pro Shop next to none.

Here is an alphabetic list of many of the fabulous golfing establishments in the area. Many offer much more than golfing.

* Basking Ridge Country Club
185 Madisonville Rd
Basking Ridge, NJ 7920
Phone number: (908) 766-8209
* Brooklake Country Club
139 Brooklake Rd
Florham Park, NJ 7932
Phone number: (973) 377-2235

* Fox Hollow Golf Club
59 Fox Chase Run
Somerville, NJ 8876
Phone number: (908) 526-0010

* Green Knoll Golf Course
587 Garretson Rd
Bridgewater, NJ 8807
Phone number: (908) 722-1301

* Hickory Course At Hamilton Farm Golf Club
1040 Pottersville Rd
Gladstone, NJ 7934
Phone number: (908) 901-4000

* Highlands Course At Hamilton Farm Golf Club
1040 Pottersville Rd
Gladstone, NJ 7934
Phone number: (908) 901-4000

* Morris County Golf Club
36 Punch Bowl Rd
Morristown, NJ 7960
Phone number: (973) 539-7200

* New Jersey National Golf Club
579 Allen Rd
Basking Ridge, NJ 7920
Phone number: (908) 781-9400
* Scotch Hills Country Club
820 Jerusalem Rd
Scotch Plains, NJ 7076
Phone number: (908) 232-9748

* Somerset Hills Country Club
180 Mine Mount Rd
Bernardsville, NJ 7924
Phone number: (908) 766-0044

* Twin Brooks Country Club
600 Mountain Blvd
Watchung, NJ 7060
Phone number: (908) 561-8858

* Warrenbrook Golf Course
500 Warrenville Rd
Warren, NJ 7059
Phone number: (908) 754-8402

If golfing is a part of your life, you can’t lose by buying a home in Basking Ridge near one of these beautiful golf courses or country clubs. A home on a golf course can only increase in value. If you would like to look at homes for sale in Basking Ridge near the golf communities, call Adrienne Francis at 201-259-4449.

Tags: Basking Ridge // Add Comment »

Tags: Adrienne Francis // Add Comment »