Market Reports December 21, 2023

December 2023 Market Update

Curious about your home’s value?

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

Chatham

Clark

Cranford

Fanwood

Garwood

Madison

Millburn

Mountainside

Scotch Plains

Short Hills

Summit

Warren

Watchung

Westfield by Grade School:

Franklin

Jefferson

McKinley

Tamaques

Washington

Wilson

Scott Gleason scott@luxuryhomesnj.com

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

Local Events December 15, 2023

Cranford Wonka Chocolate Walk 2023

First of all, I want to thank everyone who came out to the Westfield Area Y’s Men’s Christmas tree lot this year. You helped us raise thousands of dollars that we promise will go right back into the community. When you think about this time of year, one of the things that springs to mind is chocolate. To celebrate the release of “Wonka” this weekend, our fair city will be hosting the Cranford Wonka Chocolate Walk.

  • What: Cranford Wonka Chocolate Walk 2023
  • Where: Downtown Cranford
  • When: Saturday, December 16th, 12 pm to 4 pm
  • Admission: $10 per person
  • Buy Your Ticket: Eventbrite

Cranford Wonka Chocolate Walk 2023

Your $10 price of admission grants you a special “Wonka” hat, bracelet, and your very own Wonka bar that may or may not contain the most sought-after prize of all…a golden ticket. Several businesses in the downtown area offer specials during the walk. So, it might be a good time to check some items off your Christmas list. Plus, shoppers get to enjoy hot cocoa and s’mores at Eastman Clock Plaza. Some stores even supply shoppers with a delicious chocolate treat at a discounted price. Afterward, head over to the Cranford Theater and watch “Wonka” in all of its cinematic glory.

Cranford Horse & Carriage Rides

Next weekend, return to downtown Cranford to celebrate the season with a horse and carriage ride. Between 6 pm and 9 pm on Friday, December 22nd, guests may climb aboard a horse-drawn carriage and take a tour of downtown Cranford like they did back before the automobile became the main mode of transportation. All you need to participate is a non-perishable food item for each rider. Everything collected on that night goes to Cranford Family Care. Rides begin and end on Main Street near the entrance of Lot 7. Enjoy!

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

Local Events December 8, 2023

Last Call for 2023 Westfield Y’s Men Tree Lot

I want to thank everyone who showed up to the Westfield Area Y’s Men Christmas Tree Lot over the past couple of weeks. Our stock has been selling like hotcakes. With Christmas just a couple of weeks away, this marks our last call to come out before our stock completely sells out.

Westfield Area Y’s Men Tree Lot 2023

We still have some beautiful Fraser and Balsam firs available as well as gorgeous garlands, wreaths, and grave stands. Yes, we plan on staying open until December 23rd. But we tend to sell out well in advance of that. Unfortunately, once our stock is gone, we close up shop for the season. So please do not wait until the last minute or you might just miss out. And make sure you stop by and say “hi” if you see me there. As a reminder, our lot hours are 5 pm to 9 pm on weeknights and 9 am to 6 pm on weekends.

All proceeds from our Christmas tree lot go right back into the community. In the past, our club used these funds to donate to the Scotch Plains Children’s Learning Center, the NJ Youth Theater, the Westfield and Scotch Plains Rescue Squads, United Fund of Westfield, the Westfield Area Y’s financial assistance program, and many other organizations. With your help, we can continue to help these organizations well into the future.

Cranford Gnome for the Holidays Scavenger Hunt

After you visit the tree lot, consider heading over to Cranford for their Gnome for the Holidays Scavenger Hunt. While you do a little shopping in the downtown area, be on the lookout for these little bearded men…eight of them to be precise. Download your scavenger hunt list here and bring it with you. When you spot each of the gnomes, write down where you saw them. Once you complete your list, take a photo of it and submit it via email. You may just win yourself a great prize.

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

Uncategorized December 8, 2023

Westfield Area Y’s Men Tree Lot 2023

I want to thank everyone who showed up to the Westfield Area Y’s Men Christmas Tree Lot over the past couple of weeks. Our stock has been selling like hotcakes. With Christmas just a couple of weeks away, this marks our last call to come out before our stock completely sells out.

Westfield Area Y’s Men Tree Lot 2023

We still have some beautiful Fraser and Balsam firs available as well as gorgeous garlands, wreaths, and grave stands. Yes, we plan on staying open until December 23rd. But we tend to sell out well in advance of that. Unfortunately, once our stock is gone, we close up shop for the season. So please do not wait until the last minute or you might just miss out. And make sure you stop by and say “hi” if you see me there. As a reminder, our lot hours are 5 pm to 9 pm on weeknights and 9 am to 6 pm on weekends.

All proceeds from our Christmas tree lot go right back into the community. In the past, our club used these funds to donate to the Scotch Plains Children’s Learning Center, the NJ Youth Theater, the Westfield and Scotch Plains Rescue Squads, United Fund of Westfield, the Westfield Area Y’s financial assistance program, and many other organizations. With your help, we can continue to help these organizations well into the future.

Cranford Gnome for the Holidays Scavenger Hunt

After you visit the tree lot, consider heading over to Cranford for their Gnome for the Holidays Scavenger Hunt. While you do a little shopping in the downtown area, be on the lookout for these little bearded men…eight of them to be precise. Download your scavenger hunt list here and bring it with you. When you spot each of the gnomes, write down where you saw them. Once you complete your list, take a photo of it and submit it via email. You may just win yourself a great prize.

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

 

Local Events December 1, 2023

Westfield Area Y’s Men Seek Out Volunteers

The Westfield Area Y’s Men’s Christmas Tree Lot opened up last weekend to much success. If you haven’t picked up your Christmas tree yet or need a wreath, garland, or grave stand, stop by anytime. Lot hours run from 5 pm to 9 pm on weeknights and 9 am to 6 pm on weekends. With all these trees comes a great opportunity to volunteer your time with a fantastic organization like the Westfield Area Y’s Men.

Westfield Area Y’s Men Seek Out Volunteers

Our Christmas tree lot is run completely by volunteers. We could always use some extra sets of hands. If you belong to a youth group or simply want to give back to the community while getting yourself into the holiday spirit, please contact the Y’s Men through either our Facebook page or on our Westfield Area Y’s Men’s Club website.

Who are the Y’s Men?

We are a group of local men from the Westfield, Cranford, Mountainside, and Scotch Plains area who get together and raise money for local charities. We are a service organization that instills a sense of community into our youth to help create a brighter tomorrow. Our annual Christmas tree lot goes right back into the community. If this sounds like something you would like to be a part of, feel free to talk to one of us at the lot or contact us online through the website or our Facebook page. We’re always happy to welcome new members.

Westfield Firefighters Food Drive

Another way you can help spread cheer this holiday season is by donating to the Westfield Firefighters Food Drive. Between now and December 8th, you may drop off non-perishable food and/or gift cards to Stop & Shop or Trader Joe’s at the FMBA Local 30 offices (405 N Ave W) anytime between 8 am and 8 pm. Last year, they helped 131 local families. Help them reach their goal of 140 families this year by donating today.

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

 

Local Events November 22, 2023

Y’s Men Christmas Tree Lot 2023

The wait is over. The Westfield Area Y’s Men Christmas Tree Lot opens this weekend. New year. New look. Still the best selection of trees, wreaths, and more.

What: Westfield Area Y’s Men Christmas Tree Lot 2023
Where: Elm Street Field
When: November 25th to December 23rd (while supplies last)

Y’s Men Christmas Tree Lot 2023

After unloading truck-full after truck-full, the lot has been set. Gates open promptly at 9 am on Saturday, November 25th. The lot stays open from 9 am to 6 pm on Saturdays and Sundays and from 5 pm to 9 pm on weeknights. We will remain open as long as our supply lasts. But I must warn you. We run out well before the 23rd every single year. So, I strongly encourage you to plan on shopping early for the best selection.

Like years past, we offer Fraser firs and Balsam firs to hang your Christmas decorations on. Additionally, we showcase beautiful wreaths (a lovely way to welcome guests to Christmas dinner), evergreen roping (perfect for those holiday photos on the stairs), and grave stands (to honor our loved ones who can no longer be with us during the holidays). We also provide tree stands for sale just in case you find yourself without one.

New this year is our beautifully redesigned trailer. While the old white one served us well for many, many years, we thought it was time for something new. Thanks to Maria Baker, we boast a brand new gingerbread house sales trailer that looks good enough to eat. What do you think of it? Let me know in the comments below. Or, better yet, seek me out at the lot and let me know in person.

Fanwood Santa Parade

For our friends over in Fanwood, I have good news. The Santa Parade returns in 2023. What does that mean? Santa takes a moment from his busy schedule to visit Fanwood on December 16th to bring presents to good little boys and girls all over town. If you want to ensure that your child/children receive a gift directly from the big man, drop it off at the Fanwood Fire Department between 5 pm and 9 pm on November 27th to December 1st. All gifts must be no bigger than a shoebox, come pre-wrapped, and include the child’s name, parent’s/guardian’s name, delivery address, and a phone number in clear letters on the box. Only kids aged 14 and under can be part of Santa’s parade.

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

 

Market Reports November 21, 2023

November 2023 Market Update

Curious about your home’s value?

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

Chatham

Clark

Cranford

Fanwood

Garwood

Madison

Millburn

Mountainside

Scotch Plains

Short Hills

Summit

Warren

Watchung

Westfield by Grade School:

Franklin

Jefferson

McKinley

Tamaques

Washington

Wilson

Scott Gleason scott@luxuryhomesnj.com

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

Local Events November 17, 2023

Y’s Men’s Club Christmas Tree Sale Needs Volunteers

The Westfield Area Y’s Men’s Club Christmas Tree Sale – Volunteers Needed

Break out your work gloves. It’s that time of year again to raise money for local charities and the Westfield Y.  And, we need volunteers! It’s a great way to get out and help your community, and it’s a lot of fun. You can volunteer for set-up weekend, or you can help deliver trees the following week. It’s a great way to get involved and help out.

This popular event raises money for local charities and the Westfield Area Men’s Y Club. The trees are reasonably priced and the selection is good. It is a win-win for everyone involved.

The effort starts Saturday, Nov. 18th with set-up weekend, and tree deliveries the following week.  Here are the dates:

  • Lot Set Up – Saturday, Nov. 18 from  8:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Everyone Needed!  The trailer should be there.  Charge your Power tools and bring ’em. We could use a leaf blower or two.
  • First Tree Delivery – Wednesday, Nov. 22 from 8:30 AM to – 11:00 AM –  – 2 Truck Deliveries (325 Frasers and 45 rolls of garland.
  • Second Tree Delivery – Friday, Nov. 24th, 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM – 2 Trucks (610 Balsams & ~150 Frasers).  The Cadets should be there, so Bagels and Coffee would be good this day, too.
  • Opening Day – Saturday, Nov. 25th: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Thereafter, a few good men will be needed Monday to Friday during sales hours, 5-7 PM and 7-9 PM, Saturdays and Sundays, 9-5 PM.

The Y’s Men’s Club has been selling Christmas trees for over 50 years and they are hands down the best place to buy a tree in the area.  The staff is always friendly and helpful, and they go out of their way to make sure you find the perfect tree for your home.

For further information reach out to Pete Burtness, ptburtness@gmail.com.

Local Events November 10, 2023

Scotch Plains Holiday Home Decorating Contest 2023

Yes. I understand that we just celebrated Halloween. And Thanksgiving is still two weeks away. But by the looks of our local stores, it’s never too early to start thinking about Christmas. Apparently, our township’s recreation commission and fire department think the same way. Why else would they be accepting registration for the Scotch Plains Holiday Home Decorating Contest right now?

Scotch Plains Holiday Home Decorating Contest 2023

Organizers welcome all residents of Scotch Plains to join the home decorating contest. First, you must register online by December 1st. That means creating a free account on Community Pass if you do not already have one and going to the 2023 Events section of the site. Then, make sure to decorate your house in all of its holiday glory by December 10th. The Scotch Plains Fire Department plans on bringing Santa to each and every participating household before Christmas to check out the decorations. Online voting runs from December 11th to January 2nd. The homes that receive the most votes win. For more information, please call the Scotch Plains Department of Recreation at 908-322-6700 ext 223. Good luck to one and all who participate.

Organizers also ask that all participants and voters please consider donating to the Community Food Bank of NJ. That may mean donating money, food, or even your time to help them out this holiday season. And remember, food banks hand out food even after the holidays end. So, any donation you can provide now or later is greatly appreciated.

Westfield Haunt Your House 2023 Winners

In case you were wondering, AddamsFest announced the winners of the Westfield Haunt Your House contest last week. The Haunts by Day winners were D2 (1613 Grandview Ave) in third place, D5 (32 Tamaques Way) in second, and D9 (462 Mountain Ave) taking first place. For Haunts by Night, the winners were N8 (552 Edgar Rd) in third, N1 (611 Carleton Rd) in second, and N19 (711 Crescent Pkwy) taking first. Did your favorites win? Let me know in the comments below.

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

 

Local Events November 6, 2023

Westfield Area Food Banks Need Your Help

I hope everyone enjoyed their Halloween. Now that AddamsFest reached its conclusion, it’s time to concentrate on the next big holiday: Thanksgiving. For many, that means sitting down to a huge meal with your loved ones. However, that proves difficult for some. Westfield area food banks need your assistance to feed people in need this holiday season. What can you do to help?

Westfield Area Food Banks

Scotch Plains’ IHM Food Pantry hopes to hand out everything needed for a full Thanksgiving feast this year to hundreds of Westfield area citizens. Additionally, they want to pass out hams and pork roasts to those in need at Christmastime. You can help facilitate this by donating turkeys, pot roasts, hams, boxes mashed potatoes, stuffing mix, canned gravy, and canned vegetables.

Additionally, they ask for fun extras like crackers, cake mix, brownie mix, frosting, cookies, candy, and hot chocolate mix. Also, they accept perishable items like eggs, milk, and cheese. But they need a phone call first in order to make room in their refrigerator. Other items always in demand include diapers, baby formula, toiletries, pasta, soup, pancake mix, syrup, coffee, shelf-stable milk, and other everyday items. You may reach out to the IHM Food Pantry at any time by calling 908-405-1224. 

The Community Food Bank of New Jersey also accepts donations year-round. In fact, for each $1 donated, they can purchase $3 in food to help feed men, women, and children facing food insecurity. If money is tight, they also need volunteers to help them receive, sort, and distribute food to the community. Learn more about how you can help by visiting their website.

Bike MS NYC 2023

Finally, I’d like to personally thank all of you who donated to Team Guys and Dolls. We were able to raise almost $1100 for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. If you want to continue to support this worthy organization, please visit their website to find out how to get involved.

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