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Mortgage and Lending
Robert Rauf
I am a Mortgage Loan Originator (NMLS #248937) who has been lending Mostly in the Ocean and Monmouth county NJ area since 1987. Please feel free to contact me with any mortgage question
Cell: 732-740-0175
Office: 732-908-4868
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Real Estate Agent
Laura Giannotta
Client Service and Satisfaction Is My Goal! An honest, reliable Barnegat REALTOR. I have helped buyers and sellers from Barnegat to Little Egg Harbor in southern Ocean County for more than a decade.
Cell: (609) 384-6121
Office: (609) 484-9890
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Ocean County, NJ Real Estate News

This is a blog I posted on my corporate page yesterday with the latest from Fannie and Freddie.  Its good news and FHA and VA are expected to treat things the same way.  In reality we wont know everything until the DOJ decides but here is what we know:   Yesterday, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac clarified questions about the payment of real estate agent commissions. These questions were brought up shortly after the nationwide settlement agreement proposed by the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR). The updates are largely aligned with the previous statement that the FHA published on March 28, 2024, which confirmed that there will be no changes to seller-paid buyer agent fees at this time.Commission Policy UpdatesUnder the existing Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac policies, the buyer agent fee...
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By inboundREM Market Updates
(InboundREM)
Welcome to Beach Haven, NJ, affectionately known as the "Queen City" of the Jersey Shore. Nestled in Southern Ocean County on Long Beach Island, Beach Haven is not just a summer colony but a scenic nautical gem that attracts visitors with its pristine beaches, vibrant downtown, and rich cultural offerings. This guide is designed to assist you in discovering Beach Haven, whether you are arranging a family holiday, a romantic retreat, or a solo journey. It provides an overview of everything from the area's scenic landscapes to its vibrant nightlife.Getting to Beach HavenTraveling to Beach Haven, NJArriving in Beach Haven is an experience of its own, offering a blend of anticipation and scenic beauty as you approach the coast. The most common route is by car, crossing over the causeway fro...
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The Evolution of Long Beach Ice Cream SceneLong Beach, California, is renowned for its picturesque coastline, vibrant culture, and diverse culinary scene. Among its many delights, the city boasts a treasure trove of beloved Long Beach Ice Cream parlors that offer a delightful escape into a world of creamy, frozen goodness. From timeless classics to innovative flavors, Long Beach's ice cream establishments cater to every palate, inviting locals and visitors alike to savor life's sweet moments. This comprehensive guide deeply dives into Long Beach's iconic ice cream parlors' rich history, flavorful offerings, and must-visit destinations.The history of ice cream in Long Beach is as rich and different as the flavors it offers. Dating back to the early 20th century, ice cream parlors have be...
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A Brief History of Long Beach Island Miniature GolfLong Beach Island Miniature Golf, nestled along the picturesque Jersey Shore, is renowned for its pristine beaches, vibrant community, and leisure activities. Amidst the sun-soaked sands and ocean waves lies a hidden gem that has charmed visitors for generations: miniature golf. Offering a delightful blend of fun, challenge, and nostalgia, Long Beach Island's miniature golf courses are enduring symbols of family-friendly entertainment. In this article, we launch on a journey to explore the allure of Long Beach Island miniature golf, diving into its history, charm, and why it remains a beloved pastime for locals and tourists.An OverviewBefore delving into the miniature golf scene on Long Beach Island Miniature golf, it's worthwhile to br...
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By inboundREM Market Updates
(InboundREM)
Long Beach Island Lifestyle: A Haven of Tranquility and CharmNestled along the picturesque Jersey Shore, the Long Beach Island lifestyle is a beacon of coastal charm, offering residents and visitors a unique blend of serene landscapes, vibrant communities, and a relaxed way of life. Stretching approximately 18 miles along the Atlantic Ocean, this barrier island boasts pristine beaches, quaint seaside towns, and a rich maritime heritage. From enjoying leisurely days by the shore to exploring local eateries and cultural attractions, the Long Beach Island lifestyle embodies a sense of tranquility and authenticity that captivates all who visit.Long Beach Island lifestyle: Activities to EnjoyLong Beach Island lifestyle delivers in spades for those craving adventure on the water. Whether you'...
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North Beach Haven: A Residential OasisNestled on Long Beach Island, North Beach Haven epitomizes the quintessential coastal living experience. With its blend of single-family Capes and contemporary constructions, this neighborhood offers an enticing opportunity for those seeking modern living spaces near the charming town of Beach Haven. In this article, we delve into the allure of North Beach Haven, exploring its residential ambiance, stunning ocean views, and the seamless integration of coastal charm and contemporary convenience.Tranquil RetreatNorth Beach Haven is a serene residential oasis giving a tranquil retreat away from the hustle and bustle of urban life. The neighborhood's predominantly single-family Cape-style homes exude a sense of timeless charm, while newer constructions ...
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By inboundREM Market Updates
(InboundREM)
Long Beach Island Wedding Venue OptionsLong Beach Island (LBI), nestled along the New Jersey coastline, is renowned for its pristine beaches, stunning sunsets, and a captivating ambiance that beckons lovebirds to exchange vows in its picturesque settings. With its charming venues ranging from elegant beachfront estates to cozy seaside inns, Long Beach Island wedding venues offer couples the ideal backdrop for their dream wedding. In this comprehensive guide, we explore the enchanting world of Long Beach Island wedding venues, showcasing the diversity and allure of each location for couples seeking to celebrate their love in this coastal paradise.The GablesLong Beach Island wedding venues, nestled in the heart of Beach Haven, The Gables offers couples a historic and elegant setting for t...
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By inboundREM Market Updates
(InboundREM)
Long Beach Salon: What’s in Store for YouLong Beach, nestled along the Jersey Shore, is renowned for its picturesque beaches, vibrant community, and various leisure activities. Amidst the sun, sand, and sea, another facet of relaxation and rejuvenation awaits visitors and locals – the island's exquisite salons and spas. From soothing massages to luxurious facials, LBI's wellness establishments offer a sanctuary for self-care enthusiasts. This comprehensive guide delves into the diverse offerings of Long Beach salons and spas, highlighting the experiences and services that make each destination unique.Tranquility Spa and SalonLocated amidst the serene landscape of Long Beach Salon, Tranquility Spa & Salon beckons guests with its promise of blissful relaxation. Stepping into this oasis, v...
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By inboundREM Market Updates
(InboundREM)
Introduction to Long Beach Island FishingAlong the New Jersey coastline lies a hidden gem for fishing enthusiasts - Long Beach Island Fishing. This narrow barrier island stretches for 18 miles and offers some of the most diverse and exciting fishing opportunities on the East Coast.From surf fishing to deep-sea excursions, LBI provides an unforgettable angling experience for novice and seasoned fishermen.Long Beach Island Fishing, usually called LBI by locals, is a beloved destination known for its pristine beaches, charming seaside towns, and outstanding fishing. Situated among the Atlantic Ocean and Barnegat Bay, this slender strip provides access to various aquatic habitats, making it a haven for an expansive ranch of fish species.Barnegat BayAlong the New Jersey coastline lies a hidd...
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By inboundREM Market Updates
(InboundREM)
Long Beach Island Surfing: An OverviewLong Beach Island Surfing is a beacon for surfers seeking pristine waves and a vibrant beach culture along the New Jersey coastline. Renowned for its consistent swells, sandy shores, and welcoming community, Long Beach Island has become a premier destination for surfing enthusiasts of all skill levels. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the captivating world of Long Beach Island surfing, uncovering its rich history, top surf spots, local culture, and essential tips for navigating its waves.The history of surfing on Long Beach Island Surfing dates back to the early 20th century when Hawaiian legend Duke Kahanamoku introduced the sport to the East Coast. However, it was in the 1960s that surfing gained widespread popularity on LBI, spurred by ...
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By inboundREM Market Updates
(InboundREM)
Welcome to Long Beach Island, where the sun, sand, and sea converge with the exhilarating sport of pickleball! In this thorough guide, we'll explore the exciting world of Pickleball in the Long Beach Island, NJ community. Whether you're a seasoned pickleball pro or a curious beginner, this article will be your ultimate companion to unlocking the joys of this fast-paced and engaging sport in this picturesque coastal paradise.What is Pickleball?Pickleball stands out as an exceptional and dynamic athletic pursuit, blending facets of tennis, badminton, and table tennis into its unique gameplay. This engaging sport unfolds on a condensed court using a specialized paddle and a lightweight plastic ball, rendering it inclusive to individuals across various age groups and proficiency levels. Tra...
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By inboundREM Market Updates
(InboundREM)
Nestled on the shores of Barnegat Bay, just a stone's throw away from the iconic Long Beach Island lies the picturesque waterfront community of Beach Haven West in Stafford Township, New Jersey. This charming neighborhood has a fascinating history dating back to the 1950s. The Shapiro family envisioned luxury vacation homes along the Jersey Shore, and their dream became a reality. Beach Haven West homes for sale Long Beach Island offers a peaceful retreat from city life.The community presents prospective buyers with an array of amenities tailored to emulate a luxurious resort lifestyle.A Waterfront WonderlandExperience the allure of waterfront living in Beach Haven West, NJ, where every corner exudes elegance and tranquility. With most residences situated along scenic lagoons, residents...
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When it comes to shopping experiences that blend the charm of coastal living with an array of unique finds, Long Beach Island (LBI) stands out as a true gem. Nestled along the Jersey Shore, this quaint island destination boasts a vibrant shopping scene filled with boutiques, gift shops, and specialty stores offering everything from trendy clothing to handcrafted treasures. Shopping on Long Beach Island is an absolute breeze with the plethora of options available, whether you're a local resident or a visitor eager to indulge in some retail therapy!Americana By the SeashoreStep inside a historic beached sailboat to discover Americana By the Seashore, a one-of-a-kind shop that offers a delightful mix of new and old. From ancient coin jewelry set in gold with stones to oil paintings, carvin...
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Nestled on a peninsula off Long Beach Island, in the picturesque north-westernmost corner of Long Beach Township, NJ, lies the exclusive enclave of High Bar Harbor. Established in the mid-1950s, this prestigious community boasts over 385 impeccably crafted homes, each offering a slice of waterfront paradise. With its prime location along the bay and serene lagoons, homes for sale in High Bar Harbor, LBI are havens for those seeking luxury living amidst breathtaking natural beauty. This feature gives plenty of good reasons for buyers to invest in New Jersey.A Waterfront WonderlandHigh Bar Harbor presents an idyllic setting for boating and fishing enthusiasts. Nearly every property in this enclave enjoys the privilege of waterfront living, offering direct access to the bay or tranquil lag...
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By inboundREM Market Updates
(InboundREM)
Village Harbor is a captivating sanctuary, offering an inviting escape for those seeking respite and charm. This picturesque lakefront development isn't just a neighborhood—it's a symbol of elegance and tranquility, standing tall as the epitome of luxury within the vibrant Beach Haven West community. If you're interested, keep reading to explore the impressive features of Village Harbor LBI homes for sale.The Allure of Village HarborEstablished in 1986, Village Harbor is a testament to timeless allure, seamlessly intertwining natural splendor with architectural grandeur. The essence of this community lies in the harmonious fusion of pristine lakes and captivating design elements. Adorned by two picturesque lakes, Village Harbor beckons with tranquil waters, providing a serene escape fro...
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Homes for sale in The Coves offer an unparalleled blend of coastal charm and luxury living in Beach Haven West, NJ. Bordering salt marshes, this community provides residents with breathtaking vistas of nature's splendor and the distant allure of the Atlantic City skyline. The Coves offers stunning water views and spectacular sunsets, making it a top choice for homebuyers seeking a beautiful coastal lifestyle.Expansive Homes, Endless EleganceAt The Coves, luxury knows no bounds. Sprawling across generous lots, the homes in this worthy community exude elegance and sophistication. With open floor plans and thoughtful details like outdoor showers and landscaped driveways, every aspect exudes style and quality.Embrace Waterfront LivingLiving in The Coves means embracing a lifestyle intimatel...
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By inboundREM Market Updates
(InboundREM)
Long Beach Island, affectionately known as LBI, is not just a picturesque destination for sun-seekers and beach lovers. It's also a haven for coffee enthusiasts, boasting a vibrant coffee culture spanning cozy cafes to beachside retreats. Join us as we explore several Long Beach Island coffee shops that define the island's caffeinated charm.Must-Visit Coffee ShopsBirdy's Cafe and Artisan MarketNestled in the heart of Long Beach Island, Birdy's Cafe and Artisan Market stands out as a beacon of community spirit and culinary excellence. This beloved establishment is renowned for its commitment to homemade food, craft coffee, and supporting local artisans. Visitors can expect a delightful array of marketplace items sourced from local farms and makers, including freshly baked bread, pastries...
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By inboundREM Market Updates
(InboundREM)
Welcome to Long Beach Island, NJ, where the sun-kissed shores meet a vibrant fitness scene! Whether you're a local looking to shake up your routine or a visitor eager to stay active during your stay, you've come to the right place. In this guide, we'll explore the importance of fitness in daily life and delve into the factors to consider when selecting a gym. Then, get ready to discover the top gyms in Long Beach Island, NJ, each offering a unique blend of workouts and wellness experiences to help you thrive.Achieving fitness involves more than just physical effort; it encompasses the comprehensive care of body, mind, and spirit. In today's fast-paced society, making time for exercise is crucial for overall well-being. Regular physical activity offers several benefits, including improve...
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By inboundREM Market Updates
(InboundREM)
Nestled on the beautiful shores of Long Beach Island sits Bay Village, a beloved destination that has captured the hearts of travelers for over fifty years. Founded in 1965 by John Maschal, Bay Village is a testament to classic elegance and charm. Maschal's dream of creating a waterfront shopping area reminiscent of the 19th century has become a vibrant open-air mall, offering 23 shops and eateries for visitors to enjoy. If you want to move here, you can explore so many things in the sought-after Bay Village, Long Beach Island, NJ.Learn all about its attractions and charm as we uncover its secrets!Embracing Tradition: The Legacy of ChowderfestCentral to Bay Village's allure is the annual tradition of Chowderfest, a beloved fall celebration that beckons locals and tourists alike. Despite...
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 Let me know if you have heard this before (Or maybe you thought it yourself?):"I am going to wait to buy a home until prices come down."I was a little scared at the beginning of this market myself since I was both a buyer and a seller a few years ago and had flashes of the bubble pop.  So I went and did some research on my own before diving feet first. Here is some up to date data that helped me sleep at night. (Warning: My economics degree sneaks out occasionally and chewing on data can be fun...)We first have to look at population and birth rates.  Here is a fun chart from FRED:Look at that STEEP drop in births from 1970-1973, Why are we looking back into the 1970s?  Because the average age of a first time buyer at the time of the bubble pop was 33yrs... and all of the sudden there w...
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Real Estate is STILL a good Long term investment.With the latest housing numbers coming out this week for 2023 with Redfin showing price increases of over 6% in 2023, Core logic at 5.5% and Black Knight at 5.6%.We are still waiting for FHFA and Case-Shiller's December numbers.  as of November FHFA had the year over year number at 6.6% increase.(For me, I consider the FHFA number to be a realistic number for the average buyer since it is based on purchases of homes using a conforming loan amount with an FHA, VA, FNMA FHLMC or USDA loan.  another fun piece of this is it pretty clearly shows that sellers are leaving money on the table when they accept a lower priced cash offer.)Core Logic also released its forecast for 2024 looking for a 3% increase in value, This just happens to be what t...
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