Home Buyers • July 7, 2023

Down Payment Strategies for the Home Buyer

by Scott Gleason

You probably heard that you need 20% down to buy a home. That is not always the case. Some programs only require a 3% down. If you are an active member of the military or a veteran, you may qualify for as little as 0% down. Some buyers opt to put 5 or 10% down. With all those options, how much of a down payment do home buyers really need? Well, it depends.

Down Payment Strategies for the Home Buyer

20% or More Down

Let’s say that you want to buy a Westfield area home for $750,000. Twenty percent of that is $150,000. Then, you only need to finance $600,000. That means a lower monthly payment. It also eliminates PMI (Private Mortgage Insurance). This is the monthly fee a lender charges anyone who borrows more than 80% of the sale price. It protects the bank in case you default on your loan. Not paying it may save you several hundred dollars a month. Plus, the higher down payment opens you up to better mortgage rates. With rates hitting the upper 6% level, home buyers want to save where they can. However, on the flip side, putting more money down may lower or even deplete your emergency savings. It also may take a bit longer to save up for. Fortunately, you have other options to choose from as well.

Less Than 20% Down

As I stated before, some programs require as little as 3% down, with the VA loan available for 0% down. On the plus side, less money down lowers your move-in costs. This leaves more money for your emergency or home maintenance funds. On the other hand, a lower down payment means that you borrow more for your loan. In turn, that translates to a higher mortgage payment. Plus, you pay that pesky PMI I talked about earlier. While less than 20% may not nab you those lower interest rates, putting 5 or 10% down instead may qualify you for a lower interest rate than putting the bare minimum down. Also, even that slightly higher down means paying a smaller PMI per month.

Always talk over your options with your lender before deciding which down payment strategy to go with. Your lender should always be the first person you talk to when considering a Westfield area home purchase. The second person you should talk to is me.

Scott Gleason, CRS at Coldwell Banker Westfield, NJ Luxury Homes

Local Events • June 30, 2023

Fanwood Fanjam Summer Street Fair 2023

by Scott Gleason

Yes, we love those summer days. But the summer nights get even better. Westfield hosts their Sweet Sounds Downtown Music Festival during July and August. And Scotch Plains brings its Summer Concert Series to the public throughout July. Not to be outdone, officials want to welcome you to the Fanwood Fanjam Summer Street Fair just a hop, skip, and a jump away.

What: Fanwood Fanjam Summer Street Fair 2023
Where: La Grande Park (170-204 La Grande)
When: Sunday, July 9th, 11 am to 7 pm
Admission: FREE
Contact: Greater Westfield Area Chamber of Commerce (908) 233-3021 or via email

Fanwood Fanjam Summer Street Fair 2023

On the second Sunday in July, celebrate summer in La Grande Park. Starting at 11 am, dozens of local vendors and craftsmen fill the park with their exceptional handiwork. Here, you’ll find leather goods, woodwork, blown glass, photographs, fine art, handmade jewelry, and more. Make sure you mosey on over to the classic car show, too. Dozens of hot rods, rat rods, street racers, and good ol’ American muscle cars will be on display that would make any car enthusiast drool with envy. Let the kids run themselves ragged in the Kids Zone while you shop. Of course, food trucks keep everyone’s belly full.

Live Entertainment

The main stage plays host to live music all afternoon. First, the festivities kick off with Macho Men and their classic and punk rock music at noon. Higher Ground continues your musical journey at 12:30 pm with their take on oldies and newer rock. After that, get down with the funk, pop, and soul stylings of The Funktown Band at 2 pm. At 3:30 pm, Christina and the Gents perform rock, pop, and metal hits. Finally, Radio Petty closes out the evening with their tribute to Tom Petty’s music at 5:30 pm.

Scott Gleason, CRS at Coldwell Banker Westfield, NJ Luxury Homes

Market Reports • June 26, 2023

June 2023 Market Update

by Scott Gleason

Curious about your home’s value?

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

Westfield by Grade School:

Scott Gleason scott@luxuryhomesnj.com

Scott Gleason, CRS at Coldwell Banker Realty – East, NJ Luxury Homes

Local Events • June 23, 2023

Scotch Plains Summer Concert Series 2023

by Scott Gleason

It’s summertime. The sun shines high above and music fills the air. On Tuesday evenings in Westfield, that music comes from the Sweet Sounds Downtown Music Festival. But nearby, summertime means the Scotch Plains Summer Concert Series is in full swing.

What: Scotch Plains Summer Concert Series 2023
Where: Alan M Augustine Village Green (430 Park Ave)
When: 7:30 pm on Thursdays from July 6th to July 27th
Admission: FREE

Scotch Plains Summer Concert Series 2023

Located right next to the Scotch Plains Municipal Building, the Alan M Augustine Village Green provides a beautiful, lush green backdrop for many of Scotch Plains’ community activities. The summer concert series is no exception. Every Thursday evening throughout July, a different live band performs free for your entertainment. Bring your own blanket and/or chairs to enjoy this weekly feast for the ears. Admission is free but the entertainment is priceless.

Summer Concert Series Schedule

July 6th – Soul Seduction (music from the 60s to today)
July 13th – Garden State Jazz Orchestra
July 20th – North Ave (rock and roll)
July 27th – Chris Turner & Clearstream (classic country, country rock & 50’s, 60’s & 70’s Americana)

Sweet Sounds Downtown Music Festival

Just a reminder. Westfield’s Sweet Sounds Downtown Music Festival takes place every Tuesday evening throughout July and August. (Rain date: Wednesday). That is three different bands performing every single week for your enjoyment. To kick the festival off on July 11th, Bradford Hayes, the Rusty Monks, and the High Ridge Runners perform live. Don’t miss a moment. Make downtown Westfield your destination of choice on Tuesday nights and Scotch Plains your “go-to” for Thursday evenings this summer.

Scott Gleason, CRS at Coldwell Banker Westfield, NJ Luxury Homes

Local Events • June 16, 2023

Sweet Sounds Downtown Music Festival 2023

by Scott Gleason

Some people consider Memorial Day as the beginning of summer. But the official start to summer is June 21st. And while the air quality lately may have not been the greatest, it should clear out in plenty of time to enjoy the Sweet Sounds Downtown Music Festival 2023 in Westfield.

What: Sweet Sounds Downtown Music Festival 2023
Where: Downtown Westfield
When: From 7 pm to 9 pm Every Tuesday between July 11th to August 29th
Admission: FREE
Contact: Downtown Westfield Corporation (908)789-4040 or via email

Sweet Sounds Downtown Music Festival 2023

Each summer, downtown Westfield transforms into a live music extravaganza. Every Tuesday evening after the 4th of July through the end of August features different artists on three stages. Jazz groups feature prominently on the Central Ave Stage (137 Central Ave). The Quimby Stage (located at Quimby and Elm) features primarily R & B, Mowtown, Rock, Soul, and even Country music. Then, on the third stage at Foundation Park (439 S Ave W), local talent gets the spotlight. And all of this comes absolutely free of charge to the public. All you need to do is show up downtown on any Tuesday night to enjoy this treat for your ears. While you’re at it, please patronize some of our lovely local shops in the downtown area as well. If Mother Nature decides not to cooperate on Tuesday, then the Sweet Sounds Downtown Music Festival moves to Wednesday for that week.

Sweet Sounds Line-Up

Central Ave Stage

July 11th – Bradford Hayes (Jazz)
July 18th – Mitch Marcus Quartet (Progressive Jazz)
July 25th – Joe Taino Group (Latin Jazz)
August 1st – Carrie Jackson (Jazz vocalist)
August 8th – Big Fun(k) (Funky Jazz)
August 15th – Eric Mintel (Jazz)
August 22nd – Elena & Boo Demolition String Band (Bluegrass)
August 29th – Bossa Brasil (Latin Jazz)

Quimby Stage

July 11th – Rusty Monks (Funk/Rock/Latin Jazz)
July 18th – Kolor Blynd Band (R & B)
July 25th – The Wag (Classic Rock/Beatles)
August 1st – Big Bruce & The Messengers (Motown)
August 8th – Glenn Alexander & Shadowland (Jazz)
August 15th – Soul Seduction (R & B)
August 22nd – Karickter Band (R & B/Soul)
August 29th – The Sweet Briar Band (Country)

Foundation Park Stage

July 11th – High Ridge Runners (Bluegrass)
July 18th – Valencia School of Music (Rock)
July 25th – Say It Ain’t Scorcho (Weezer)
August 1st – Higher Ground (Rock)
August 8th – Better Late (Rock)
August 15th – Twice Heard (Rock)
August 22nd – NJ Workshop for the Arts (Rock & Jazz)
August 29th – Drop the Needle (Rock

Scott Gleason, CRS at Coldwell Banker Westfield, NJ Luxury Homes

Local Events • June 9, 2023

Westfield Water Safety Class

by Scott Gleason

The Westfield Memorial Pool officially opened up for the season last weekend. But even if you only go to the beach, you really should take a Westfield Water Safety Class. Why? Because approximately 4000 people die in the US from downing each year. In fact, it is the #1 cause of death in children between the ages of one and four and the #2 cause of death in children between the ages of five and 14.

What: Westfield Water Safety Class
Where: Westfield Area YMCA (220 Clark St)
When: Sunday, June 11th, 2023, from 12 pm to 4 pm
Contact: Rob Faggiano (908) 301-9622 ext 276 or via email

Westfield Water Safety Class

Do you have young kids? Are you at least 16 years old and plan on babysitting kids this summer? If so, then you should take this water safety class. You will learn what signs to watch out for when a child starts to struggle in the water. Also, you will be taught how to avoid an emergency in the first place. The class also includes basic CPR techniques as well as first aid training. To register, visit the YMCA’s website here. If you care for the safety of your loved ones while playing in the water this summer, please sign up for the YMCA’s water safety class and CPR certification today. This is the only water safety class that the Y will be offering this summer. So, take advantage of it while you can.

Tour de Westfield 2023

If you happen to be in Westfield this weekend, come out and cheer on the guys and girls competing in the Tour de Westfield. It takes place at the North Side Train Station from 10 am to 12 pm. Come out and root for the competitors in the morning and then finish the afternoon with a water safety class and CPR certification at the Y.

Scott Gleason, CRS at Coldwell Banker Westfield, NJ Luxury Homes

Local Events • June 2, 2023

Garwood Rocks Street Fair 2023

by Scott Gleason

Summer doesn’t officially start until June 21st. However, it already feels like summer now. Sunny skies and warmer weather create the perfect climate for the annual Garwood Rocks Street Fair.

What: Garwood Rocks Street Fair 2023
Where: Center Street
When: Sunday, June 4th, 11 am to 6 pm
Admission: FREE

Garwood Rocks Street Fair 2023

On Sunday, June 4th, Center Street transforms into a pedestrian walkway filled with dozens of vendors showcasing their wares. Various acts perform live on the main stage all day long. Let the kids loose on the inflatables and with other activities specifically geared for them in the Kids Zone. One of the most popular events of the festival, the car show, attracts thousands of people from all over the area each year. You won’t want to miss that either. Don’t worry about going hungry. With several food vendors to choose from, there’s something to satiate everybody’s tastebuds.

As a reminder, Center Street shuts down to automotive traffic for the day. That means absolutely no parking on Center Street from 5 am to 7 pm on June 4th. Garwood Police will be out patrolling the area during the festival. If you park in a no-parking zone, you will get ticketed and possibly towed. It’s not worth the risk. Just avoid the possibility and park elsewhere for the day.

Tour de Westfield 2023

Don’t forget! Tour de Westfield 2023 takes place next weekend (June 11th). If you’ve ever watched the Tour de France and thought, “I would love to do that someday” but lack the actual physical endurance to do so, then the Tour de Westfield may be more your speed. Fortunately, some spots are still open to participate in the tour as well as the bike parade and Tour de Tricks. But you’d better hurry. They could fill up soon. Avoid the headache of flying all the way to France and spending three weeks pushing your body to its limits and beyond. Instead, sign yourself and your family up for the more local (and much easier) Tour de Westfield instead.

Scott Gleason, CRS at Coldwell Banker Westfield, NJ Luxury Homes

Market Reports • May 30, 2023

May Market Update

by Scott Gleason

Curious about your home’s value?

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

Westfield by Grade School:

Scott Gleason scott@luxuryhomesnj.com

Scott Gleason, CRS at Coldwell Banker Realty – East, NJ Luxury Homes

Local Events • May 26, 2023

Taste of Cranford 2023

by Scott Gleason

Looking for something other than the standard dinner date night out? Take one weeknight off from cooking. Instead, come to the Taste of Cranford 2023 event.

What: Taste of Cranford 2023
Where: Downtown Cranford
When: Tuesday, May 30th
Admission: $5
Contact: Downtown Cranford (908) 709-7208 or via email

Taste of Cranford 2023

At the Taste of Cranford 2023 event, participants get to sample special menu items from various Downtown Cranford restaurants. First, purchase your $5 bracelet at Project Home of Cranford. Then, pick it up at the Eastman Clock on Tuesday, May 30th (or on the rain date of May 31st if the weather doesn’t cooperate on the 30th). After that, visit any of your favorite restaurants in the downtown area. Pay for each sample as you go and stop in at as many as you want. This event also provides a great opportunity to try out a new dining establishment without committing to a full meal. Live music keeps everyone entertained while roaming from restaurant to restaurant all night long.

Project Home of Cranford provides financial assistance to local families in jeopardy of losing their homes due to unforeseen circumstances. Every dollar raised goes to aid these families in crisis. Please help our fellow neighbors remain part of our wonderful community.

Tour de Westfield 2023

Unfortunately, the Tour de Tots is full. However, there is still time to register for the parade and the rest of the Tour de Westfield 2023. But you need to hurry. Only the first 600 people to register receive a spot on the tour. Even so, spectators are welcome to participate in the other events scheduled for the day, including the bike safety rodeo. Plus, bicyclists always love it when you show your support for their efforts. So, please visit the Westfield NJ website to sign up today!

Scott Gleason, CRS at Coldwell Banker Realty – East, NJ Luxury Homes

Local Events • May 19, 2023

Tour de Westfield 2023 – Sign-Ups Start Now

by Scott Gleason

Anyone who knows me knows how much I like cycling. In fact, I put those skills to use every October for the MS NYC charity ride. For many bicycle enthusiasts, the Tour de France is the highlight of their year. But you don’t have to fly to Europe, wait until July, or even traverse the 2000-mile course to enjoy an epic bike ride. Instead, sign up for the Tour de Westfield 2023.

What: Tour de Westfield 2023
Where: Starts at North Side Train Station
When: Sunday, June 11th, 10 am to 12 pm
Contact: Westfield Recreation Department via email

Tour de Westfield 2023

Unlike its French counterpart, our little bicycle tour is open to the entire family. In fact, the Tour de Tots allows kids ages 9 and under to compete against each other. Kids ages 9 to 15 can learn how to perform fun tricks on their bikes at the Tour de Tricks. Jay’s Cycle Center will be on hand to inspect your bike for safety if you wish as well.

A special bike parade kicks off the festivities at 10 am. If you want to participate in that, you must register for it separately. All participants in the Tour de Westfield are encouraged (but not required) to bling out their bikes. Those who do so may win a $100 gift card to a local business for their efforts.

How to Register

There are only 600 spots available for the entire tour. So if you want to participate, you must sign up as soon as possible. Simply visit the Westfield Recreation Department’s website here. Remember to add yourself and/or anybody else in your part on the parade link if you want to be a part of that as well. If you forget to do so, you will not be able to participate in that. Also, you need to sign up your child for the Tour de Tots separately from your own adult Westfield tour.

Registration is open now. Sign up today to secure your spot on the tour. Have fun!

Scott Gleason, CRS at Coldwell Banker Realty – East, NJ Luxury Homes

Down Payment Strategies for the Home Buyer

Fanwood Fanjam Summer Street Fair 2023

June 2023 Market Update

Scotch Plains Summer Concert Series 2023

Sweet Sounds Downtown Music Festival 2023

Westfield Water Safety Class

Garwood Rocks Street Fair 2023

May Market Update

Taste of Cranford 2023

Tour de Westfield 2023 – Sign-Ups Start Now

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