Years before he became one of the Empire State Building’s key financiers, an East Coast industrialist strategically positioned his home to overlook the evolving Manhattan skyline.
Listed this April for slightly less than $2.5 million by Christine Lane of Compass New Jersey, 10 Edgewood Terrace in Montclair was completed 115 years ago on what then was highly coveted real estate, according to an August 1907 report in The Montclair Times.
Known as the triangle, the property bound by Highland Avenue, Edgewood Road and Edgewood Terrace was “considered one of the finest residential sites on the mountainside, having a gentle slope and being prettily wooded with forest trees,” according to the report. The triangle later became known for shaping the fork in the road baseball Hall of Famer Yogi Berra famously told people “to take” to arrive at his Highland Avenue home.
Seeking to capitalize on the triangle’s strengths and lack of development in the early 1900s was Ellis P. Earle.
Earle, who in 1907 held the claims to one of Canada’s most productive silver mines, Ontario’s Nipissing Mine, bought the triangle that summer. Later that year, he revealed plans for the now eight-bedroom and nine-bathroom Tudor castle at 10 Edgewood Terrace.
The Montclair Times reported an estimated construction cost of $100,000. Add $50,000 for the property brokered by F. M. Crawley and Bros., who had their hands in much of Montclair’s posh mountainside development, it added.
The final cost of construction was closer to $91,000, the newspaper reported in 1909. Still, the cost for most new homes in town at the time was $6,000 or less, according to newspaper listings. The result of Earle’s lavish spending was featured in the December 1911 issue of Architecture.
Built from Germantown stone with terra cotta trimmings and a green slate roof, 10 Edgewood sits on 2.15 acres and contains roughly 12,000 square feet of living space. It boasts century-old touches, such as a library with custom built-ins, a first floor trimmed in oak and windows with leaded and stained glass. Still, it has been updated to feature a modern kitchen with top-tier stainless steel appliances, a massive center island and seating for more than a dozen.
Bedrooms are reserved for the second and third floors. Five, including the primary bedroom with its fireplace, skyline view and dual closets, are on the second floor. The first floor is built around a grand central hall.
The home was designed for Earle by architect Frank E. Wallis and his associate William J. Rogers, a duo best known for Georgian and Colonial homes, according to Montclair historical records. Wallis, who had trained in the office of Richard Morris Hunt, was “a noted authority on Colonial architecture,” according to his 1929 New York Times obituary. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, he was also highly active in Montclair.
Wallis designed St. John’s Church on Montclair Avenue, a cluster of typical Montclair homes at the south end of Highland Avenue, including the one once owned by Berra, and several larger-scale homes. They include 190 South Mountain Ave., 32 Llewellyn Rd. and 3 Eagle Rock Way, according to local historical records.
When Earle died in October 1945, 10 Edgewood held his funeral services. Then Gov. Charles Edison attended, as did former governors James Fielder, Morgan Larson and Arthur Harry Moore. Earle had for more than 20 years been chairman of the state’s former Board of Control of Institutions and Agencies, a board he helped create while overseeing charitable organizations on behalf of the state.
“So effectively and economically did the hospitals, prisons and other public institutions function under Mr. Earle’s leadership that every succeeding governor who was in office […] reappointed him regardless of political affiliation,” The Montclair Times wrote in his obituary.
A large donor to Princeton University and the old Montclair Community Chest, Earle was also well known locally as a philanthropist. In 1930, Earle helped finance a former boy’s camp in Jefferson Township, called Camp Ranger.
Earle was born in September 1860 in Brooklyn and educated in Elizabeth as a teenager, according to his Montclair Times obituary. A law clerk at 18, he began a transition into the mining and banking industries while securing materials for his father-in-law’s metallic paint business. He broke off from the family business in 1898 to concentrate on importing and exporting precious metals, according to The Montclair Times. Six years later, he co-founded the Nipissing Mining Company, formerly one of North America’s largest silver producers, and began to amass serious wealth.
In about 1930, a chunk of that wealth went to supplement the Metropolitan Life Insurance Company’s $27.5 million loan for the Empire State Building. Earle, along with Louis Kaufman, Thomas Coleman du Pont, Pierre S. du Pont and others, helped former New York State Governor Al Smith advance a project conceived by DuPont executive and former GM executive John Jakob Raskob to build a tower taller than the Chrysler Building. The project was ambitious but ultimately made easier by Coleman du Pont who owned the midtown site that had then held the original Waldorf-Astoria hotel.
Earle’s Montclair home was later owned by Bob Gaudio, the keyboardist and background singer for The Four Seasons. Born in the Bronx and raised in Bergenfield, Gaudio was a key songwriter for the group, penning “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry” and “Walk Like A Man” among other hits after convincing his parents to let him leave Bergenfield High School at 16 to pursue music.
Before dropping out, Gaudio co-wrote “Short Shorts” as a 15-year-old member of the Royal Teens. After, Gaudio rose to fame and wrote and produced for other artists, including Frank Sinatra, Michael Jackson and Neil Diamond. Gaudio moved out to California in the early 1970s and produced multiple full albums for Diamond. He earned a Grammy Award nomination in 1979 for producing the Barbra Streisand and Diamond duet “You Don’t Bring Me Flowers.”
Another prominent owner of 10 Edgewood was Joseph Aiello, the former owner of the Wedgewood Cafeteria and Boonton’s Knoll Golf Club. Born in Sorrento, Italy, Aiello came to America as a pre-teen in 1904 and within a few years helped his family open a grocery store network with locations in Lake Hopatcong, Newark and Montclair, according to his January 1964 obituary in the Paterson News.
The grocery store was dovetailed with a meat and produce supplier, Aiello Bros. Inc., that operated prominently in the area in the mid-1900s. Aiello later founded the popular Wedgewood Cafeteria eatery in town and co-owned Montclair’s first post-Prohibition liquor license with his brother Gabriel Aiello, who owned Gabe’s Galley.
Well-maintained, full of character and customizable in a location that blends urban and suburban living: That was the common status of two North Jersey homes that sold for hundreds of thousands of dollars over asking price within days of one another.
Located on opposite ends of historic Glen Ridge are 28 Oakwood Ave. and 15 Sommer Ave., both listed at the end of January by Amy Owens, realtor and team leader of the Amy Owens Real Estate Team at Keller Williams NJ Metro Group. The homes yielded selling prices of $999,999 and $852,500 — or $350,000 and $253,500 over asking — on April 1 and March 28, respectively.
“Just nothing had come on the market at the time, and I thought to put these two homes on the market on the same weekend,” Owens said. “One of the reasons that I put them both on the same weekend was because a lot of buyers won’t come out just to see one house. So, I explained to both of the owners that it’s good to have another house because you’ll get more buyers out and then they’ll decide which one is right for them.”
Each home did in fact attract more buyers, with the properties collecting a combined total of 64 offers during their time on the market.
Owens said this popularity is credited to the centralized location of each property, and that each home offered the opportunity for the next owners to make their own improvements and add personal touches.
“That’s something that all buyers should be looking for right now when they buy a house, especially since we’re in such a high market,” she said. “What’s the upside of the house? What can I do to add value to it?”
28 Oakwood Ave., Glen Ridge
28 Oakwood Ave, Glen Ridge, NJ 07028 | Zillow
Built in 1925, 28 Oakwood Ave. is a four-bedroom, two-bathroom side hall colonial-style home in the northernmost neighborhood of Glen Ridge. The property features a brick fireplace in the living room, a sunroom that can double as a home office or playroom, a finished basement, a fenced yard and a one-car garage. It is also located near Brookdale Park and the Glen Ridge Country Club.
Owens said that the previous owners of the home had opted to preserve some of the home’s character, rather than renovating the property to have a mainstream, modern look. She believes this played a big role in the demand for the home, as it felt warm and inviting to potential buyers.
“They didn’t bastardize the house,” she said. “There’s a beautiful marble used in the kitchen, which wasn’t pristine and perfect. You could tell it had been loved and used, but it was still really pretty.”
Cathy Miller, a realtor with Keller Williams NJ Metro Group who represented the buyers of the home, said her clients were relocating from Italy, having been transferred to New Jersey for work. They were specifically drawn to Glen Ridge because of its proximity to New York City for work, as well as for the area’s highly-rated school system.
“Interestingly, my clients were doing research and this area was coming up as the highest on their Internet searches, so that shows you also that there’s a lot of press about this area internationally,” she said.
Miller said her clients were ideally looking for a smaller home. She said that while the home on Oakwood Avenue was on the smaller side for Glen Ridge, it was a normal size property for her clients’ European standards.
Additionally, she said they were drawn to the property not only because it didn’t require a lot of money in repairs, but also because it had some features that reminded them of Italy.
“They told me they particularly felt at home in the house because it had some characteristics that reminded them of Italian properties, like the ribbon trim and the wood floors,” she said. “They also didn’t want an open layout. They wanted a kitchen that was more enclosed. Open layouts are a very American concept, and in European homes, that’s not really a concept that caught on. So, they liked the fact that the kitchen was a little more separate from the rest of the house.”
15 Sommer Ave., Glen Ridge
15 Sommer Ave, Glen Ridge, NJ 07028 | Zillow
The three-bedroom, two-bathroom colonial-style home at 15 Sommer Ave. is located at the southernmost end of Glen Ridge, near neighboring West Orange and East Orange. Built in 1937, the home offers a living room with a brick fireplace, a sunroom that opens to the backyard, a one-car attached garage and a spacious backyard with a patio.
“It has this great sunroom off of the back that looks over the yard, which is the perfect size,” Owens said. “It also has the opportunity for the new owners to make a true primary suite, and I think that’s something that appealed to a lot of people.”
Sara Whitley, a realtor on the Amy Owens Real Estate Team at Keller Williams NJ Metro Group, represented the buyers of the home. She said that the mix between suburban neighborhoods with large homes and spacious yards, as well as access to vibrant downtown areas, is what attracted her clients to Glen Ridge.
When looking at the property at 15 Sommer Ave., Whitley said her clients were attracted to the homes layout, as well as the fact that the property had not been overly updated. She said one of the biggest factors for them was that it was a clean slate for them to add in their own style.
“Part of what spoke to them was actually that the layout was almost identical to the home of their friends in Montclair. So, they felt kind of this kindred spirit with the home,” she said. “This home, while staged beautifully and maintained impeccably, certainly needed a bit more updating over time, and they were actually looking for something they could really put their mark on.”
During their home search, Whitley said her clients had put in offers on three other homes, including the property on Oakwood Avenue, but were not accepted. Because of this, Whitley said they had to regroup to determine what steps they needed to take to secure the home on Sommer Avenue.
“I think a lot of buyers get frustrated and feel like there’s some sort of bait-and-switch happening. I think that it’s important for them to understand that that’s not what’s happening. What’s happening is that the demand is simply extremely high and inventory is incredibly low,” Whitley said. “So, it’s really important to work with someone who can at least try and meet those expectations and guide you to what a winning number should be in a particular house.”
Maddie McGay is the real estate reporter for NorthJersey.com and The Record, covering all things worth celebrating about living in North Jersey. Find her on Instagram @maddiemcgay, on X @maddiemcgayy, and sign up for her North Jersey Living newsletter. Do you have a tip, trend or terrific house she should know about? Email her at MMcGay@gannett.com.
Though many say the suburban office real estate market is suffering, a new survey finds three Central Jersey areas among the country’s 100 priciest office markets in 2023.On the list, compiled by PropertyShark based on the per square foot price data, were Interstate 287 South, ranked at 22, Bridgewater, at 58, and Cranford at 72.
Cranford also placed second in the amount of office space transactions. Sales in the township last year totaled approximately 2.2 million square feet of office space.
The I-287 South market includes East Brunswick, Edison, Highland Park, Metuchen, Middlesex, New Brunswick, North Brunswick, Piscataway and the Somerset section of Franklin.
Three other New Jersey areas also found their way onto the list. They were North Bergen County at 73, Parsippany at 91 and Trenton at 99.
State-of-the-art office properties in high-demand markets remain well-positioned to weather any oncoming uncertainties, according to PropertyShark,
Some emerging markets may continue to experience a lift in life sciences and medical office space.
Doug Ressler, manager of Business Intelligence at Yardi Matrix, said the six New Jersey markets made the list because of their “greater density location to coastal gateway metropolitan hubs,” as well as easy access to land, sea and air.
NJ’s priciest office space markets
I-287 South
National Rank: 22
Price Per Square Foot: $238
Total Sales: $90,590,000
Total Square Feet Sold: 509,977
Number of Sales: 4
Bridgewater
National Rank: 58
Price Per Square Foot: $157
Total Sales: $39,432,563
Total Square Feet Sold: 370,995
Number of Sales: 3
More:Route 22 medical building in Bridgewater sold for $10.5 million
Cranford
National Rank: 72
Price Per Square Foot: $133
Total Sales: $212,752,549
Total Square Feet Sold: 2,184,283
Number of Sales: 6
North Bergen County
National Rank: 73
Price Per Square Foot: $130
Total Sales: $37,750,750
Total Square Feet Sold: 306,389
Number of Sales: 4
More:Pfizer’s 150-acre campus in Somerset County targeted for redevelopment. Here’s the plan
Parsippany
National Rank: 91
Price Per Square Foot: $100
Total Sales: $75,845,390
Total Square Feet Sold: 813,167
Number of Sales: 4
Trenton
National Rank: 99
Price Per Square Foot: $89
Total Sales: $26,250,000
Total Square Feet Sold: 378,822
Number of Sales: 4
Source: CommercialEdge
Brad Wadlow is a staff writer for MyCentralJersey.com
TEANECK — The Palestinian-Israeli conflict found its way to this quiet suburb Sunday as thousands of protesters marched across town and demonstrated at a synagogue where a company was pitching real estate deals in Israel and the occupied West Bank.
Protesters gathered at the Teaneck Armory on the north end of town and marched about a mile to Congregation Keter Torah, where the My Home in Israel Real Estate company was giving out information on how to buy properties. Among those properties were some in West Bank settlements that U.S. policy has long considered illegal.
The protesters arrived at the synagogue shortly after 1:30 p.m.
In the morning, Teaneck police erected barriers on all local roads surrounding the synagogue for at least half a mile and barred parking on many others from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Dozens of local police and sheriff’s officers lined up outside the synagogue shortly after 11 a.m.
“At the very least, I hope this raises awareness,” said Ahmed Obidat of Paterson, one of the first protesters to arrive, shortly before noon. “They are selling stolen land. Nobody is superior and should get special treatment.”
Metal barriers were erected on both sides of Roemer Avenue as security guards stood at the entrance of the synagogue’s parking lot to examine bags. Security officers also opened trunks and checked under vehicles with a rolling mirror.
Some supporters of Israel criticized protesters, calling it a pro-Hamas event. The demonstration is a “cynical attempt to target a religious institution under false pretenses as part of a coordinated and malicious campaign to harass Teaneck’s Jewish community,” said Yigal Gross, a spokesman for the Bergen County Jewish Action Committee.
A woman driving past the synagogue and the protesters rolled down her window and sang the familiar Beatles chorus “All you need is love!” Shortly after, a man who drove past yelled out at protesters: “Die! Die! Die!”
While the protest was largely non-violent, there were some skirmishes. A man carrying an Israeli flag walked through a crowd of pro-Palestinian protesters. A protester grabbed the flag out of his hand and tossed it to the ground. Police intervened and escorted the man out of the area. Some pro-Palestinian participants tossed water and plastic water bottles at some cars exiting the synagogue. A man whose car was hit with a bottle rolled down the window and yelled: “Israel is going to [expletive] you!”
A few water bottles were thrown at a small group of counterprotesters standing near the synagogue’s entrance holding Israeli flags as they exchanged barbs with pro-Palestinian protesters across Roemer Avenue while a dozen police officers stood between them. At least one bottle was hurled back.
Story continues below gallery.
The seeds of the protest began last month when Teaneck resident Rich Siegel — a Jewish man and outspoken critic of the Israeli government — criticized the event at a Township Council meeting in a video that went viral on social media and already has more than 500,000 views on X, the website formerly known as Twitter.
Inside the synagogue, things were calm.
Representatives at booths offering legal advice, moving assistance or mortgages had large bowls filled with free chocolates below oversized signs that said “Looking to move to Israel?”
Gidon Katz, CEO of IMP Group, which was running the event, was beaming.
“Business has been great,” he said. “I don’t know what’s motivating peoples’ decision to want to come, but there’s no question that we’ve had increased interest.”
The real estate event featured 35 vendors and advertised more than 100 projects. Katz emphasized that the fair was strictly “an educational event” aimed at helping people who want to move to Israel or purchase real estate there and that no sales transactions were taking place at the venue. Motti Ben Yitzchok, who was staffing a table that provided information about moving to Ashkelon, a coastal city in southern Israel, boasted that his booth was so popular he ran out of brochures. “I had a big stack of them this morning and now I’m all out,” he said at around 4:30 p.m.
At around 5 p.m., security personnel in the synagogue told the event participants they had to wait inside the temple until it was safe for them to leave.
Adina Abramoff of Teaneck added that the real estate event was “very informative” and said the protesters were “misguided” about what it was about. “The fact that SWAT teams have to be called out to protect us at a synagogue event is very sad,” she said.
“We’re outraged that a synagogue would sponsor an event that is selling stolen land,” Teaneck resident Adam Weissman of Northern New Jersey Voice For Peace said Sunday afternoon. “It’s clearly in violation of a core tenet of Judaism, something as simple as thou shall not kill.”
On Sunday, at about noon, one of the early protesters said to a motorist driving into the synagogue’s parking lot: “You know it’s stolen land, right?”
On Friday, Township Manager Dean Kazinci said in a letter to residents that officials were preparing a plan that focused on “maintaining public order, safeguarding the rights of peaceful demonstrators and ensuring the protection of the synagogue and its visitors.”
Kazinci said he had received multiple requests to shut down the event because of allegations that it violates international law but that local officials have no power to cancel a private event that doesn’t violate local ordinances.
Although Kazinci said the real estate company has held such sessions at Teaneck synagogues and elsewhere across the U.S. and Canada for years, the Israel-Hamas war has stoked tensions and heightened scrutiny of such presentations.
Representatives for Keter Torah said last week that the sessions were to discuss “tax and financial implications of buying real estate abroad” and that no sales would take place.
Two Muslim civil rights organizations called on the New Jersey attorney general to investigate whether the event was discriminatory, saying it was marketed only to Jews. That drew a sharp rebuke from organizers, who said the accusation was inflammatory and admission was open to anyone.
Members of Keter Torah said last week that they stood by their decision to hold the event in their house of worship. Some Jewish residents said they would attend just to show solidarity.
Mike Kirshner, an attendee of the real estate event, pointed to the protestors and said, “I’m sure that was good for business.”
Israeli right-wing leaders have called for expanding settlements in the West Bank for nationalist and religious reasons, citing the Jewish people’s historical claims to the land. Last month, Secretary of State Antony Blinken reiterated longstanding U.S. policy against the settlements — many built on seized Palestinian land — after plans to build 3,300 new homes surfaced.
A local group in Teaneck that advocates for the Jewish community turned the protest into a fundraising tool for Israel. In the face of the “intimidation campaign by Israel’s enemies,” the Bergen County Jewish Action Committee launched a fundraising effort in which for every protester who attended, a donation was made to American Friends of Magen David Adom, the Red Cross equivalent in Israel, which saves the lives of Jews, Muslims and Christians in Israel every day.
As of 6:30 p.m. on Sunday, more than $14,500 had been raised for MDA, said Emma Horowitz.
Kevin R. Wexler contributed to this story.
With its stunning views of the Manhattan skyline, Jersey City, NJ, draws residents with its lively arts scene, diverse culinary options, and easy access to New York City. This vibrant city has a rich history, unique neighborhoods, and a quintessential East Coast vibe. So, whether you’re searching for apartments for rent in Jersey City or homes for sale, this city has something for everyone.
Jersey City has a median home sale price of $687,500 and an average rent of $3,000 – and there are plenty of neighborhoods to call home. If you’re contemplating moving, Redfin has collected 11 popular Jersey City neighborhoods to explore this year. From Downtown Jersey City to Van Vorst Park, there’s a neighborhood sure to fit your lifestyle.
1. Bergen-Lafayette
Bergen-Lafayette is located just outside Downtown Jersey City, encompassing the Bergen and Lafayette neighborhoods. This area is home to plenty of local restaurants and green parks. The neighborhood is home to Berry Lane Park, a 17-acre park with a playground, basketball courts, and a splash pad. Bergen-Lafayette features a mix of housing types, including historic brownstones, new construction, and multi-family homes.
Median Sale Price: $600,000
Average Rent for 1-Bedroom Apartment: $1,950 | Average Rent for 2-Bedroom Apartment: $2,750
Homes for Sale in Bergen-Lafayette | Apartments for Rent in Bergen-Lafayette
2. The Heights
The Heights is known for its stunning views of the Manhattan skyline. The neighborhood is home to Riverview-Fisk Park, a popular green space with a farmers’ market and outdoor concerts. You can also check out the local restaurants and other parks like Pershing Field Park. The Heights has many home styles, like historic brownstones, row houses, and mid-rise apartment buildings.
Median Sale Price: $801,000
Average Rent for 1-Bedroom Apartment: $2,700 | Average Rent for 2-Bedroom Apartment: $2,900
Homes for Sale in The Heights | Apartments for Rent in The Heights
3. Downtown Jersey City
Downtown Jersey City is a vibrant neighborhood known for its bustling restaurant scene and proximity to the waterfront. The area is home to Liberty State Park, a sprawling green space with stunning views of the Statue of Liberty. You can also find attractions like White Eagle Hall, the Colgate Clock, and Van Vorst Park. Downtown Jersey City features historic brownstones, modern high-rise condos, and luxury apartments.
Median Sale Price: $830,000
Average Rent for 1-Bedroom Apartment: $2,900 | Average Rent for 2-Bedroom Apartment: $3,700
Homes for Sale in Downtown Jersey City | Apartments for Rent in Downtown Jersey City
4. Greenville
Greenville is located in southern Jersey City and is primarily a residential area. The neighborhood is home to parks like Bayside Park, Columbia Park, and McGovern Park. There are also plenty of local restaurants showcasing the area’s culinary expertise. In Greenville, you can find various housing types, including single-family homes, multi-family houses, and apartment buildings.
Median Sale Price: $580,000
Average Rent for 1-Bedroom Apartment: $1,890 | Average Rent for 2-Bedroom Apartment: $2,000
Homes for Sale in Greenville | Apartments for Rent in Greenville
5. Journal Square
Journal Square is a bustling neighborhood known as Jersey City’s transportation hub. You can find gorgeous historic architecture in buildings like Loew’s Jersey Theatre, a movie palace built in the Baroque style. Journal Square features housing types like pre-war apartment buildings, historic brownstones, and new developments.
Median Sale Price: $532,500
Average Rent for 1-Bedroom Apartment: $2,950 | Average Rent for 2-Bedroom Apartment: $3,500
Homes for Sale in Journal Square | Apartments for Rent in Journal Square
6. Liberty State Park
Liberty State Park is a unique neighborhood in Jersey City known for its waterfront location and attractions. The area is home to the Liberty Science Center, a hands-on science museum with interactive exhibits and an IMAX theater. You can also take the ferry to Ellis Island or the Statue of Liberty from this neighborhood. Liberty State Park has luxury high-rise condos, townhouses, and waterfront apartments.
Median Sale Price: $925,000
Average Rent for 1-Bedroom Apartment: $2,150 | Average Rent for 2-Bedroom Apartment: $3,850
Homes for Sale in Liberty State Park | Apartments for Rent in Liberty State Park
7. McGinley Square
South of Journal Square is the vibrant McGinley Square neighborhood. You can find many quaint cafes and restaurants in the heart of the neighborhood and historic spots like the Jersey City Armory. The neighborhood is next to Lincoln Park, a 273-acre park with sports fields, playgrounds, and walking trails. McGinley Square has historic brownstones, multi-family homes, and pre-war apartment buildings.
Median Sale Price: $245,000
Average Rent for 1-Bedroom Apartment: $3,899 | Average Rent for 2-Bedroom Apartment: $2,800
Homes for Sale in McGinley Square | Apartments for Rent in McGinley Square
8. Newport
Newport is a modern neighborhood known for its waterfront location and luxury amenities. The area is home to Newport Centre, a popular shopping mall with a variety of stores and restaurants. You can find the Hudson River Waterfront Walkway and Newport Green Park in this neighborhood. Newport has many housing types, including luxury high-rise condos, waterfront apartments, and townhouses.
Median Sale Price: $1,230,000
Average Rent for 1-Bedroom Apartment: $3,986 | Average Rent for 2-Bedroom Apartment: $4,827
Homes for Sale in Newport | Apartments for Rent in Newport
9. Paulus Hook
Paulus Hook is a charming neighborhood located in the larger downtown area. It’s close to the waterfront and is characterized by its historic brownstones. The area is near the Colgate Clock, a historic timepiece that has been a landmark in the neighborhood for over a century. In addition to historic brownstones, Paulus Hook has luxury high-rise condos and townhouses.
Median Sale Price: $985,000
Average Rent for 1-Bedroom Apartment: $3,725 | Average Rent for 2-Bedroom Apartment: $4,154
Homes for Sale in Paulus Hook | Apartments for Rent in Paulus Hook
10. Powerhouse Arts District
Powerhouse Arts District has a thriving arts scene and historic industrial warehouses. The area is home to galleries, breweries, and cafes. Powerhouse Arts District features a mix of housing types, including historic loft buildings, modern condos, and luxury apartments.
Median Sale Price: $860,000
Average Rent for 1-Bedroom Apartment: $5,233
Homes for Sale in Powerhouse Arts District | Apartments for Rent in Powerhouse Arts District
11. Van Vorst Park
Van Vorst Park is a charming neighborhood with historic brownstones and tree-lined streets. The area is home to Van Vorst Park, a green space with a playground, dog run, and community garden. There are also many local restaurants with various cuisines, so you can easily dive into Jersey City’s food scene. Van Vorst Park has many historic brownstones, new construction, and multi-family homes.
Median Sale Price: $729,500
Average Rent for 1-Bedroom Apartment: $3,000 | Average Rent for 2-Bedroom Apartment: $3,500
Homes for Sale in Van Vorst Park | Apartments for Rent in Van Vorst Park
Methodology: All neighborhoods must be listed as a “neighborhood” on Redfin.com. Median home sale price data from the Redfin Data Center during February 2024. Average rental data from Rent.com during February 2024.
NEWARK, New Jersey (WABC) — A program in Newark looking to add more local homeowners by selling houses for just one dollar kicked off on Monday.
City officials held the first lottery Monday for the sale of the city-owned properties.
The properties have all been seized by the city for non-payment of taxes, bills, or other public debts.
Pre-qualified city residents packed City Hall on Monday morning to wait for their names to be called.
Mayor Ras Baraka said the plan offers affordable housing and increases equity among the people who live there.
“We have a few properties and as we get more we’ll put more out there, so if you’re not in the lottery and picked today, by God’s grace you’ll be picked sometime in the near soon future,” Baraka said.
In order to qualify for the “Home Ownership Revitalization Program” potential buyers are required to have lived in Newark for at least five years or be city residents displaced by gentrification. Those who win the lottery must commit to live in the properties for at least 10 years.
The first partner and Program Administrator in the Homeownership Revitalization Program is the Neighborhood Assistance Corporation of America (“NACA”).
NACA provides low-interest mortgages to help people become homeowners and help people in financial distress to stay in their homes.
Residents can learn how to apply, or get more information, by calling NACA Newark at 973-679-2601 or accessing the Homeownership Revitalization Program FAQ at tinyurl.com/Dollar-Lottery.
ALSO READ | Illegal e-batteries being sold in New York City despite efforts to restrict access
7 On Your Side’s Dan Krauth has more on the investigation.
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Legislation Creates Homeownership Opportunities for New Jersey Residents
TRENTON – Governor Phil Murphy today signed A5664/S4240, establishing a Community Wealth Preservation Program to promote equity and fairness in foreclosure sales by providing opportunities for foreclosed-upon residents and their next of kin, tenants, and other prospective owner-occupants – along with nonprofit community development corporations – to purchase and finance a foreclosed-upon home.
The current foreclosure market favors investment companies that can afford to purchase foreclosed-upon properties and sell them at a profit. The legislation helps to level the playing field, support affordable homeownership, and empower those with a vested interest in the community to purchase property.
“For too many, the dream of homeownership feels far out of reach,” said Governor Murphy. “With today’s bill signing, we are creating a new avenue to homeownership for individuals and families throughout New Jersey, giving many the opportunity to remain in the homes and communities they cherish while also protecting our neighborhoods from rapid investor-driven homebuying.”
“This new law shows that New Jersey is continuing to find creative ways to create affordable homeownership opportunities for families and, in the process, ensure more homes stay owned by local residents,” said New Jersey Department of Community Affairs Acting Commissioner Jacquelyn A. Suárez. “With the Community Wealth Preservation Program, it is now much easier for all residents to buy a home to live in at a sheriff’s sale because of the lower deposit required and the extra time to come up with money for the remaining balance. Rather than corporations and investors buying the homes to rent or flip for profit, everyday families now have a better opportunity of purchasing a house they can call home for generations to come.”
Then-Assemblywoman, now-Senator Britnee Timberlake championed this legislation in the Legislature. Additional primary sponsors include Senators Andrew Zwicker and Shirley Turner and Assemblymembers Shanique Speight, Shavonda Sumter, and Benjie Wimberly.
“New Jersey is consistently in the top three in the nation with the highest foreclosures. Our state also has the widest racial wealth gap in the country. Black and brown wealth is hemorrhaging through the loss of foreclosed property, and the people who live in the community often do not have deep enough pockets to even participate in the foreclosure process. This bill is a creative opportunity for families to save their wealth at the time of a foreclosure sale by using financing,” said Senator Britnee Timberlake. “This legislation also levels the playing field for renters, affordable housing non-profit developers and people who want to purchase an abandoned home to restore and live in or to create affordability. This is what equity in systems look like.”
“Community wealth preservation represents an important way of ensuring affordable housing opportunities remain with the local community, stabilizing neighborhoods, and improving lives, all the while making a variety of other positive impacts that will boost our towns economically and socially and keep them viable for future generations to come,” said Senator Andrew Zwicker.
“Too often foreclosed properties are bought up by real estate investors and developers only looking to make a profit,” said Senator Shirley Turner. “This legislation will help to keep property ownership within the community. By creating pathways for owners, tenants and local organizations to make purchases at sheriff’s sales we can help to keep money in the community and keep people in their homes.”
“The current process for buying foreclosed houses favors companies that have the money to purchase property at sheriff sales and resell it for a profit,” said Assemblywoman Shanique Speight. “By enacting the changes detailed in this bill, we can give people vested in their community a better chance of securing a home at these sales.”
“Home ownership is an important way to build generational wealth, and this bill combats housing insecurity,” said Assemblywoman Shavonda Sumter. “The trauma of losing the family home due to foreclosure leaves a lasting emotional scar. This bill makes it easier for families to support one another, buy that home at a sheriff’s sale and keep it in the family.”
“We need to make housing affordable and accessible, especially in Black and brown neighborhoods and the ‘Community Wealth Preservation Program’ does that. This legislation provides an opportunity for many New Jerseyans who want to own a home and join a community,” said Assemblyman Benjie Wimberly. “We’re removing barriers that stand in the way of a potential homeowner’s success at sheriff sales.”
“Today we are taking a major step to address NJ’s enormous racial wealth gap, the largest in the nation,” said Staci Berger, president and chief executive officer of the Housing and Community Development Network of NJ. “The Community Wealth Preservation Program will help to HouseNJ by preventing the loss of a family’s greatest asset — their home. This landmark legislation, which has been persistently championed by Senator Britnee N. Timberlake during her time in the Assembly, allows relatives to keep their home within their family when possible, and allows nonprofit developers to help keep the property affordable when not. NJ needs to do everything we can to prevent foreclosures, which contribute to the racial wealth disparity, and provide people with safe and stable housing. We thank all the sponsors including Senators Timberlake and Andrew Zwicker, our legislative leaders, and Governor Phil Murphy for their leadership and commitment to bring this generational wealth building tool to New Jerseyans.”
“The bill puts the interests and wellbeing of people before corporate real estate interests and protects families and communities from the disruption and devastation caused by foreclosure,” said New Jersey Citizen Action’s Financial Justice Program Director, Beverly Brown Ruggia. “The legislation is an important step toward reversing the devastating impact of the great recession and foreclosure crisis on black and brown families in New Jersey. It will help ensure that the chain of generational wealth building through home ownership isn’t broken when a family falls on hard times. We want to especially thank Senator Britnee Timberlake for championing this bill, and Governor Murphy for signing it into law.”
“We are pleased to see Governor Murphy sign this critical piece of legislation into law. Providing expanded opportunities for Black and Brown communities to retain wealth through homeownership is vital. Closing the racial wealth gap in New Jersey will require more work, but the Community Wealth Preservation Act will create a desperately needed pathway and is a great step in the right direction. We commend Senator Timberlake for her leadership and advocacy in championing this bill,” said James Williams, Director of Racial Justice Policy at the Fair Share Housing Center.
“This legislation is an important step in addressing New Jersey’s racial wealth gap by preserving housing wealth in families and communities rather than turning it over to outside investors,” said Laura Sullivan, Director of the Economic Justice Program at the New Jersey Institute for Social Justice. “This new policy is especially important in New Jersey where people of color face some of the worst racial wealth disparities and are most vulnerable to foreclosure.”
Located close to major cities like New York City and Philadelphia, coastal spots like the Jersey Shore, to landscapes like the Pine Barrens and the Delaware Water Gap, there are plenty of reasons to consider making the move to New Jersey. If New Jersey sounds right for you, then chances are you have a budget you’d like to stay under when it comes to renting or buying a home. For example, the median home sale price in New Jersey is $497,600 as of August.
If that price doesn’t fit into your budget, don’t worry. Redfin has collected a list of the 10 most affordable places to live in New Jersey. And they all have a median home sale price under the state’s average. Read on to see what cities you may want to consider moving to in New Jersey.
#1: Camden
Median home price: $130,000
Average sale price per square foot: $94
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $925
Median household income: $28,623
Nearest major metro: Philadelphia, PA (5 miles)
Camden, NJ homes for sale
Camden, NJ apartments for rent
With a median home sale price of $130,000, Camden is the most affordable place to live in New Jersey. About 5 miles away from Philadelphia, PA, the nearest major metro, Camden is home to roughly 71,800 people. Living in Camden, you can visit Wiggins Waterfront Park where you’ll find a riverfront promenade, amphitheater, and nearby Adventure Aquarium, discover the Battleship New Jersey museum, and explore the downtown area home to museums, shops, and restaurants.
#2: Trenton
Median home price: $225,000
Average sale price per square foot: $145
Median household income: $37,002
Nearest major metro: Philadelphia, PA (30 miles)
Trenton, NJ homes for sale
Trenton, NJ apartments for rent
Taking second place on our list of affordable cities to live in New Jersey is Trenton. When living in this city of 90,900 people, you can stop by the New Jersey State Senate where you’ll also find the New Jersey State Museum and Old Barracks Museum. Make sure to explore the paths at Cadwalader Park and watch a show at one of the concert halls or venues.
#3: Vineland
Median home price: $270,000
Average sale price per square foot: $169
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,075
Median household income: $55,740
Nearest major metro: Philadelphia, PA (40 miles)
Vineland, NJ homes for sale
Vineland, NJ apartments for rent
About 60,800 people reside in Vineland, located about 40 miles south of Philadelphia. The median home sale price is $270,000 which is about $100K less than the median home sale price in New Jersey. If you find yourself moving here, explore the downtown area or check out one of the parks in town.
#4: Newark
Median home price: $383,000
Average sale price per square foot: $207
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $2,837
Median household income: $37,002
Newark, NJ homes for sale
Newark, NJ apartments for rent
Only slightly more expensive than Vineland is none other than Newark. There are several top attractions you may want to check out in Newark. Make sure to explore the Ironbound District, check out museums like The Newark Art Museum, see a show at New Jersey Performing Arts Center, and visit the expansive Branch Brook Park where you’ll find cherry blossoms in the spring.
#5: New Brunswick
Median home price: $397,500
Average sale price per square foot: $312
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $2,360
Median household income: $37,002
Nearest major metro: Newark (28 miles)
New Brunswick, NJ homes for sale
New Brunswick, NJ apartments for rent
Consider adding New Brunswick to your list of cities to check out if you’re looking for an affordable place to move to in New Jersey. With 55,300 residents, moving to this affordable city gives you the perks of city-life without living in a major metropolitan area. Living in New Brunswick, you can check out Boyd Park along the Raritan River, visit one of the theaters or comedy clubs for a show, or explore the downtown shops and restaurants.
#6: Toms River
Median home price: $400,000
Average sale price per square foot: $262
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,899
Median household income: $80,145
Nearest major metro: New York, NY (30 miles)
Toms River, NJ homes for sale
Toms River, NJ apartments for rent
A recognizable city is Toms River, where you’ll find the home prices are about $95K less than the state’s average. With roughly 95,400 people calling Toms River home, it’s a great area to consider buying a house in this year. Make sure to take a boat cruise along Toms River, explore the expansive trails leading out to the water at Cattus Island County Park, or have a beach day along the coast. No matter what neighborhood you move to in Toms River, you’ll never tire of exploring this city.
#7: East Orange
Median home price: $405,000
Average sale price per square foot: $202
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,709
Median household income: $50,990
Nearest major metro: Newark (3 miles)
East Orange, NJ homes for sale
East Orange, NJ apartments for rent
Coming in seventh place on our list of affordable places to live in New Jersey is East Orange. With a population of about 69,600, East Orange is a great area to live in that’s not nearly as big as the major metropolitan cities in New Jersey. If you find yourself moving to this city make sure to explore Monte Irvin Orange Park or one of the other parks in town.
#8: Perth Amboy
Median home price: $405,000
Average sale price per square foot: $276
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,700
Median household income: $54,188
Nearest major metro: Newark (22 miles)
Perth Amboy, NJ homes for sale
Perth Amboy, NJ apartments for rent
If you’ve lived in New Jersey for a while, chances are you know of our eighth city – Perth Amboy. This affordable area is home to roughly 55,400 residents. Be sure to visit the High Street Municipal Fishing Pier, stop by the historic Proprietary House dating back to 1764, and check out the shops and restaurants on and around Smith Street once you move to Perth Amboy.
#9: Plainfield
Median home price: $411,500
Average sale price per square foot: $286
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,900
Median household income: $58,400
Nearest major metro: Newark (18 miles)
Plainfield, NJ homes for sale
Plainfield, NJ apartments for rent
Another great place to consider moving to in New Jersey is Plainfield where the population is about 54,600. Fun activities to do in Plainfield include exploring parks like Cedar Brook Park and Green Brook Park, seeing some of the historic homes throughout Plainfield, and checking out the charming downtown area.
#10: Elizabeth
Median home price: $420,000
Average sale price per square foot: $275
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $2,350
Median household income: $50,647
Nearest major metro: Newark (6 miles)
Elizabeth, NJ homes for sale
Elizabeth, NJ apartments for rent
Claiming the 10th spot on our list of affordable places to live in New Jersey is Elizabeth, home to about 137,300 residents. You can check out Elizabeth River Parkway and Mattano Park, see a show at Ritz Theatre & Performing Arts Center, and visit the Union Square area of town where you’ll find shops and restaurants. There’s plenty to do on an afternoon or weekend while living in Elizabeth.
Methodology: All cities must have over 50,000 residents per the US Census and have a median home sale price under the average median home sale price in New Jersey. Median home sale price and median sale price per square foot from the Redfin Data Center during August 2023. Average rental data from Rent.com August 2023. Population and median household income data sourced from the United States Census Bureau.
Newark, located just a 20-minute train ride to New York City, is in the middle of all the action. With ample access to transit lines, a plethora of restaurants, and plenty of other amenities, Newark is a city of character and culture.
While Newark has so much to offer, buying a home or renting an apartment here won’t be for everyone. Thankfully, there are plenty of amazing places to live near Newark that don’t have the same heavy traffic, high cost of living, and hustle and bustle. To help you find the right place to buy or rent in, Redfin has gathered a list of 8 great cities near Newark to consider instead.
#1: Elizabeth, NJ
Miles from Newark: 6
Population: 128,500
Median home sale price: $470,000
Average 1-bed rent: $1,879
Walk Score: 80
Bike Score: 47
Transit Score: 54
Elizabeth is the largest city in Union County, New Jersey. Elizabeth was built on shipping and industry, but it has modernized into a picturesque residential community with urban amenities. This city has a rich history that can be seen through the city’s grand architecture, such as the Elizabeth Public Library and the Union County Courthouse.
There is a lot to do in Elizabeth, NJ. The city has many parks, including Warinanco Park and Elizabeth River Park. There are also several museums and historic sites, including the Liberty Hall Museum, the Museum of Russian Icons, and the site of the Battle of Springfield.
Homes for sale in Elizabeth, NJ
Apartments for rent in Elizabeth, NJ
#2: Hoboken, NJ
Miles from Newark: 10
Population: 53,500
Median home sale price: $855,000
Average 1-bed rent: $3,599
Walk Score: 97
Bike Score: 74
Transit Score: 78
Hoboken is a small New Jersey city west of the Hudson River. It is only 1.28 square miles and is referred to as “the mile square city.”
There are plenty of things to do in this vibrant city. Some of the many museums you can visit in Hoboken are the Hoboken Historical Museum, which is popular with locals and tourists, and the Hoboken Fire Department Museum. There is also a unique arts and culture scene, with performing arts venues such as the Hudson Theatre Ensemble and Mile Square Theatre. Make sure you grab a bite to eat at La Isla Restaurant and Zack’s Oak Bar & Restaurant for a small taste of what this city offers. There’s something for everyone living in Hoboken.
Homes for sale in Hoboken, NJ
Apartments for rent in Hoboken, NJ
#3: Union City, NJ
Miles from Newark: 11
Population: 68,000
Median home sale price: $490,000
Average 1-bed rent: $1,950
Walk Score: 94
Bike Score: 80
Transit Score: 54
Union City is a historic city located just off the Hudson River. It has a rich cultural heritage and a tight-knit community.
Union City, New Jersey, is full of exciting things to do. There are several parks, including Liberty State Park, which offers a variety of activities such as hiking, biking, and picnicking. There are also several museums, such as the Liberty Science Center, which offers a variety of interactive exhibits. Additionally, Union City is home to many restaurants, bars, and shops.
Homes for sale in Union City, NJ
Apartments for rent in Union City, NJ
#4: Jersey City, NJ
Miles from Newark: 12
Population: 263,000
Median home sale price: $605,000
Average 1-bed rent: $4,085
Walk Score: 87
Bike Score: 70
Transit Score: 64
Jersey City is a city with a rich history, situated between the Hudson and Hackensack Rivers. Once a city driven by the shipping and manufacturing industries, Jersey City has now transformed into a modern urban community. Old factories have been repurposed into office buildings and housing units, and abandoned rail yards are now landscaped parks.
There are several things to do while living in Jersey City. Some popular attractions include Liberty State Park, Ellis Island, and the Statue of Liberty. There are also many museums and historical sites located in the city.
Homes for sale in Jersey City, NJ
Apartments for rent in Jersey City, NJ
#5: Clifton, NJ
Miles from Newark: 12
Population: 85,500
Median home sale price: $480,000
Average 1-bed rent: $1,721
Walk Score: 62
Bike Score: 45
Transit Score: 44
Clifton, NJ, is famous for Montclair State University, its agricultural roots, and its strong economy. Something fascinating about the city is that many scenes from numerous TV shows and movies were filmed throughout Clifton, including The Sopranos.
There are plenty of things to do while living in Clifton. Residents can go to the Clifton Arts Center, the Clifton Nature Center, or the Clifton Community Pool. They can also visit the Clifton Performing Arts Center, the Clifton Public Library, or the Clifton Recreation Department. There are also plenty of restaurants, cafes, and shops to explore in Clifton.
Homes for sale in Clifton, NJ
Apartments for rent in Clifton, NJ
#6: Edison, NJ
Miles from Newark: 26
Population: 101,000
Median home sale price: $540,500
Average 1-bed rent: $1,940
The city of Edison, New Jersey, is named after the famous inventor Thomas Edison. The town is very proud of its most famous citizen and has many tributes to Edison, including a museum, park, and memorial tower.
There are plenty of things to do if you decide to move to Edison. For one, you can check out the Thomas Edison National Historical Park, which is dedicated to preserving the site of the famous inventor’s laboratory. If you’re looking for some shopping and dining options, you can head to Menlo Park Mall or one of the many other shopping centers in the area. And if you’re looking for a place to have some fun with the kids, you can visit the Liberty Science Center or the Bronx Zoo.
Homes for sale in Edison, NJ
Apartments for rent in Edison, NJ
#7: Yonkers, NY
Miles from Newark: 29
Population: 200,000
Median home sale price: $512,500
Average 1-bed rent: $2,279
Walk Score: 69
Bike Score: 53
Transit Score: 37
Yonkers is New York’s fourth largest city, located along the Hudson River, and is the largest city in Westchester County. Yonkers is a diverse city and is home to many businesses and industries, as well as several colleges and universities.
There are plenty of things to do while living in Yonkers. For starters, you can check out the Yonkers Raceway, which is a harness racing track that also features electronic gambling. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also go whitewater rafting on the Hudson River. And, of course, no trip to Yonkers would be complete without visiting the Saw Mill River, which is a popular spot for fishing. Yonkers is also a cultural hub, with the Hudson River Museum, Sarah Lawrence College, shopping centers, and arts and entertainment venues.
Homes for sale in Yonkers, NY
Apartments for rent in Yonkers, NY
#8: New Rochelle, NY
Miles from Newark: 34
Population: 79,500
Median home sale price: $841,000
Average 1-bed rent: $2,822
Walk Score: 64
Bike Score: 42
Transit Score: 47
New Rochelle, NY, is known for its stone mansions, manicured lawns, and beautiful views of the Long Island Sound. Rochelle Park was one of the first planned communities in the nation. The city also has 9.3 miles of shoreline, 231 acres of public parks, and a municipal marina.
New Rochelle is a great city to live in with a wide variety of activities to keep you busy. From dining at local restaurants to visiting one of the many parks, you’ll never find yourself bored in New Rochelle. Some of the well-known museums include the Thomas Paine Cottage and the Museum of Arts and Culture. There are also many performing arts venues, such as Fleetwood Stage and New Rochelle Opera, that contribute to the city’s unique arts and culture scene. Parks are abundant in New Rochelle, where you can find green spaces like Glen Island Park & Beach, Five Islands Park, and Hudson Park. There’s also a variety of unique eateries and restaurants that appeal to every palette in the city.
Homes for sale in New Rochelle, NY
Apartments for rent in New Rochelle, NY
Methodology: All cities must have a population of more than 50,000 and be less than 50 miles away from Newark. Median home sale price data from the Redfin Data Center during August 2022. Average rental data from Rent.com during August 2022. Walk Score, Bike Score, and Transit Score from Walkscore.com during August 2022. Population data sourced from the United States Census Bureau.