Cranford Summer Real Estate Market – June Home Sales

by Brooke Filosa

As summer unfolds in Cranford, the local real estate market is heating up, showcasing significant trends in home sales. Here’s a look at the key numbers and what they mean for buyers and sellers.

Market Trends and Prices

In June, the average home sale price in Cranford was $815,333. This represents a 5.81% increase from last year and a 12.87% rise compared to the last three months. This steady climb in prices indicates strong demand for homes in Cranford.

Sales Activity and Competition

Out of the 25 homes sold in June, five fetched over $1 million each. Homes in Cranford are selling quickly, with an average of just 14 days on the market. More than half of these homes were sold in less than 10 days, reflecting the competitive nature of the market. The average sales price was 107.4% of the list price, with one home selling for 20% over its asking price. Additionally, 11 homes sold for more than 10% above their list prices, and 85% of homes sold for more than their asking prices, highlighting the bidding wars among buyers.

Inventory Challenges

Despite the robust sales and high demand, inventory remains tight. June saw only 19 new listings, a 32% decrease from last June. This lean inventory adds further pressure on buyers and contributes to the competitive pricing and quick sales turnaround.

Conclusion

June’s home sales data highlights a very active and competitive real estate market in Cranford. With rising prices, quick sales, and many homes selling above their list prices, it’s a great time for sellers. Buyers, however, need to act fast and be ready to navigate a competitive market. As we move further into summer, we expect these trends to continue, making it an exciting time for real estate in Cranford.

Stay tuned for more updates on the Cranford real estate market!

Curious what your home is worth? Get a free Market analysis here!

Cranford NJ Updates • July 6, 2024

Dive into Fun: Summer Activities at Cranford Pools

by Brooke Filosa

Cranford’s outdoor pools are offering a wide array of events and activities this Summer. Whether you’re a pool member or a non-member, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at both the Orange Avenue and Centennial Avenue pools. Here’s a glimpse of what’s in store:

Float Night

Float Nights are back and better than ever! These fun-filled evenings allow you to relax and float around the pool with your favorite inflatables. Float Nights are scheduled on Fridays from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM throughout the summer.

Centennial Avenue Pool Dates:

July 5th
July 19th
August 2nd
August 16th

Orange Avenue Pool Dates:

July 12th
July 26th
August 9th
August 23rd

Whether you’re a member or just visiting for the night, Float Nights offer a unique way to enjoy the pool with family and friends.

Summer Concert Series

Enjoy live music under the stars with the Summer Concert Series at the Orange Avenue Pool. These concerts take place from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM on select Wednesday evenings and feature a variety of local bands. Bring your family and friends, and enjoy an evening of great music and poolside fun.

Schedule of Live Music:

June 26th with Alden Street
July 31st with Triphammer
August 28th with Burnside Manor

Cost:

Members: $5 per individual or $20 per family
Non-Members: $10 per individual or $30 per family

Kayak in the Pools

Try something new this summer with Kayak in the Pools, a fun and safe activity suitable for all ages. This unique event gives pool-goers the chance to paddle around a designated area of the pool, with sit-on-top kayaks available for adults and children. Instructors will be on hand to provide paddling tips and ensure a great experience for everyone.

Kayak Event Dates:

Tuesday, July 30th, from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Orange Avenue Pool
Wednesday, July 31st, from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Centennial Avenue Pool

This free event is open to members and guests, and kayaks are provided by Kayak East.

Foam Party

Get ready for a brand new and exciting event at the Cranford Pools—the Foam Party! A mega foam blaster cannon will fill the pool grounds with millions of tiny bubbles, creating a Foam Zone perfect for play and fun. The foam is biodegradable, non-staining, non-toxic, hypoallergenic, and free of gluten and nuts, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Foam Party Dates:

July 15th at 2:00 PM at Centennial Avenue Pool
July 22nd at 2:00 PM at Orange Avenue Pool

This event is open to members, guests, and those with day passes. Non-members can register online or at the Centennial Avenue Pool. For more information, visit Cranford Recreation.

Membership and Event Access

Membership at the Cranford pools grants you access to both the Orange Avenue and Centennial Avenue pools, along with the various events hosted throughout the summer. Non-members can also participate in some events for a fee. For more information on memberships and event details, visit the Cranford Recreation website.

Full Calendar of Events

Stay up-to-date with all the exciting events happening at Cranford Pools this summer by checking out the full calendar of events. From Float Nights and concerts to special activities like kayaking, there’s always something fun happening at the pools.

Make the most of your summer by diving into all the fun events at Cranford Pools. Whether you’re looking to relax, enjoy live music, or try a new activity, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. See you at the pool!

For Summer Fun beyond the pool, check out this article about Summer Fun in the Cranford and Westfield areas. Sign up for The Weekly Local for reguarly updates on fun things to do in the area.

Cranford NJ Updates • July 5, 2024

Summer Fun in the Cranford and Westfield Area this July

by Brooke Filosa

Summer is in full swing, and there are so many fun things to do in the Cranford and Westfield areas. From live music festivals and sidewalk sales to family movie nights and special community events, there’s something for everyone to experience this July.

Live Music Outdoors Downtown

Westfield Sweet Sounds

Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Westfield’s Sweet Sounds Downtown Music Festival! This beloved event returns on Tuesday nights from 6:00 – 9:00 PM in July and August. With performances spread across three vibrant locations—Quimby Street, Central Avenue, and Foundation Park on South Avenue West—there’s no shortage of musical talent to enjoy. This year, the Quimby Street venue will kick off at 6 PM, providing an extra hour of music before the other venues start at 7 PM. Don’t miss out on the chance to groove to the tunes of talented musicians in the heart of Westfield. For more details, visit the Westfield Sweet Sounds page.

Cranford Summer Sounds

Every Thursday night, from 6:00 – 8:30 PM, Eastman Plaza in Cranford comes alive with the sounds of local bands during the Cranford Summer Sounds series. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a long day, enjoying live music in a relaxed outdoor setting. Bring your friends and family, grab a bite from local restaurants and let the music elevate your summer evenings. For more information, check out the Cranford Summer Sounds event page.

Sidewalk Sales

Westfield Sidewalk Sale Days: July 11-14

Westfield’s Sidewalk Sale Days are set to take place from July 11th to 14th. Shoppers can expect an array of fantastic deals and discounts from local stores, making it the perfect time to update your summer wardrobe or pick up gifts. Rain or shine, this event goes on, with sales moving indoors if the weather doesn’t cooperate. The streets of Downtown Westfield will be brimming with displays of the finest products from various retailers, offering a festive shopping experience. For more details, visit the Westfield Sidewalk Sale Days page.

Downtown Cranford Summer Sidewalk Sale: July 18-20

Mark your calendars for the Downtown Cranford Summer Sidewalk Sale from July 18th to 20th. This annual event is a shopper’s paradise, offering amazing deals from local retailers. It’s a fantastic opportunity to explore the charming downtown area, discover unique finds, and support small businesses. Whether you’re looking for fashion, home goods, or just want to browse, the sidewalk sale has something for everyone. For more details, visit the Cranford Sidewalk Sale page.

Union County Events

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is thrilled to present two free summer programs for families:

Family Fun and Flix Series

Beginning on July 16th and running through August 20th at Warinanco Park in Roselle, the Family Fun and Flix series promises a delightful evening for families. Each movie night starts with festivities at 7:30 PM, followed by a film screening at dusk. Attendees can enjoy treats from an on-site ice cream truck, and are encouraged to bring blankets and chairs for a cozy viewing experience. This series kicks off with “Wish” on July 16th and concludes with “The Little Mermaid” on August 20th. For more information, visit Union County Family Fun and Flix.

Summer Arts Concert Series

Running from July 20th to August 17th, the Summer Arts Concert Series features a variety of musical acts performing in Union County parks. The series kicks off on July 20th with The Little Mermen, a Disney-tribute band, performing at Oak Ridge Park from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM. The series wraps up on August 17th with Taylor Nation, a premier Taylor Swift sing-along tribute band, also at Oak Ridge Park from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM. These concerts are perfect for music lovers of all ages, offering fun activities and great entertainment. For more details, visit Union County Summer Arts.

Other Exciting Events

Fanwood Summer FanJam: July 14th

Fanwood’s Summer FanJam returns on Sunday, July 14th, from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM at LaGrande Park. This event is packed with entertainment, featuring live music, a classic car show, and a variety of food trucks. It’s a great way to spend a summer day with family and friends, enjoying all that Fanwood has to offer. For more information, visit FanJam’s Facebook page.

These Boots Were Made for Walkin’ Downtown: July 24th

Get ready for a brand new event in Downtown Cranford! On July 24th, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, join the community for “These Boots Were Made for Walkin’ Downtown.” This fun-filled event features live music by Nikki Briar & the Sweetbriar Country Band, line dancing, a food tour, mechanical bull riding, and more. Sponsored by Garlic Rose Bistro, this event promises to be a memorable evening for all. For more details, visit These Boots Were Made for Walkin’ Downtown.

Enjoy a Vibrant Summer

With a packed schedule of events, Cranford and Westfield offer plenty of fun actitivies for the whole family this summer. Whether you’re enjoying live music, finding great deals at sidewalk sales, or spending quality time with family at the movies, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Embrace the summer spirit and explore all the fantastic activities happening in your community!

Cranford NJ Updates • Union County Real Estate Market • June 6, 2024

Cranford Real Estate Market Update for May 2024

by Brooke Filosa

The Cranford Real Estate Market remained strong for May 2024, with significant growth in average sales prices and an increase in new listings. Here’s a detailed look at the current market trends and what to expect in the coming months.

Average Sales Price Increase

The average sales price for homes in Cranford rose to $761,151 in May 2024, marking a 14% increase from last year. This price surge reflects the high demand and limited inventory that continues to characterize the market. Notably, three homes sold for over $1 million, underscoring the competitive nature of the market.

New Listings on the Rise

In May 2024, there were 24 new listings, a 9% increase compared to last May. This is a positive sign for buyers, indicating a slight improvement in the availability of homes. However, inventory remains at historically low levels, which is a significant factor driving up prices.

From 2020 to 2022, about 29-30 homes came on the market each May. When compared to May 2019, which saw 59 new homes listed, the current number is 60% lower, highlighting the persistent scarcity of available properties.

Market Competitiveness

The Cranford real estate market remains highly competitive. Most homes receive multiple offers and go under contract very quickly. On average, homes sold for 106.6% of their list price, with some properties fetching as much as 20% over the list price.

For example, 99 Burnside sold for $800,000, which was $141,000 over its list price of $659,000. Similarly, 2 Adams sold for $830,000, $131,000 over its list price of $699,000. These examples illustrate the intense competition among buyers and the premium prices being paid for desirable properties.

Looking Ahead

As we move into June and July, we can expect more inventory to come on the market. Historically, these months are peak periods for new listings. However, inventory levels typically taper off as we approach the fall and holiday seasons.

For those looking to buy or sell, now is an opportune time to enter the market. Increased inventory in the coming months may provide more options for buyers, while sellers can benefit from the continuing high demand and competitive bidding environment.

Stay tuned for further updates on the Cranford real estate market, and make sure to act quickly to take advantage of current market conditions.

Curious what you home is worth in the current market? Find out now!

Cranford NJ Updates • Union County Real Estate Market • May 3, 2024

Spring Real Estate Buzz: Cranford & Westfield Market Update

by Brooke Filosa

As we enter the peak of spring, the real estate markets in Cranford and Westfield are showing strong signs of activity, with home prices rising and properties selling quickly.

Cranford Insights

In Cranford, the average sales price rose to $775,379, marking a 23% increase from March and a 25% increase from April 2023. During the month, 21 homes were sold, spending an average of just 16 days on the market and selling for an average of 107% of the list price. Notably, some homes sold for well above their list price, such as 345 S. Union, which was listed for $619,000 but sold for $785,000—27% above the list price. Additionally, 507 Springfield Avenue set a record selling price for the town at $1,570,000, which was $181,000 above list price.

Homes Sold in Cranford: April 2024

Westfield Market Highlights

Westfield also experienced a robust month, with the average home sales price reaching $1,373,192—a 32% increase compared to April of the previous year. Homes in Westfield sold quickly, spending an average of only 13 days on the market and fetching 109% over the list price. Notable sales included 755 Oak Avenue selling for $1,055,000, $230,000 above list price; 1137 Summit Avenue selling for $1.4 million, $250,000 above list price; and 158 Harrison Avenue selling for $1.95 million, $251,000 above list price.

Homes Sold in Westfield: April 2024

A Silver Lining for Buyers

Despite the competitive seller’s market, there’s some positive news for buyers. Both Cranford and Westfield saw a notable increase in new listings during April, providing more options for those looking to make a move.

Looking Ahead

As we move further into the spring and summer months, the real estate landscape in Cranford and Westfield is expected to remain dynamic. Sellers can continue to benefit from strong demand and rising prices, while buyers will have more inventory to consider as they navigate these popular markets.

Stay tuned for further updates as I continue to track the evolving real estate trends in Cranford and Westfield! For a Weekly Market update, sign up for The Weekly Local.

Curious what your home is worth in this market? Contact me for a free CMA!

Cranford NJ Updates • March 5, 2024

Spring Delight: A Festive March in Cranford Packed with St. Patrick’s Day and Easter Fun

by Brooke Filosa

An early Easter brings an abundance of Spring events to the area, making for a very festive March in Cranford. Local groups and organizations are ushering in the season with a range of events to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day and Easter this season!

St. Patrick’s Day Extravaganza

The St. Patrick’s Day celebrations kick off on March 9 with the Union County St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Beginning with a Thornstick Mass at Immaculate Heart of Mary & St. Patrick at 9 am, followed by the Grandstand Program at Noon in Union Center. The parade itself takes off at 1 pm from Morris & Jeanette Avenues. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere filled with music, dance, and delectable offerings from food trucks opening beginning 11 am in the Municipal lot on Caldwell Ave.

For additional St. Patty’s fun on the same day, join the Cranford Women’s Club for their inaugural Leprechaun Lunch from 11 am – 1 pm. Tickets are $12 and include a leprechaun-themed lunch, snacks, beverages, and desserts. Children will receive a DIY leprechaun trap kit, coloring pages, and a magical visit from a leprechaun!

Easter Fun

With Easter falling on March 31, Cranford is abuzz with early celebratory events. The Centennial Village Group kicks off the festivities with their Bunny Hop, starting on March 14. You are invited to stroll through Centennial Village to admire bunnies creatively designed by locals, and cast your vote for your favorite.

Downtown Cranford hosts the return of the Peeps-Tacular contest, where participants can showcase their PEEPS® marshmallow masterpieces from March 23-31. All members of the public are invited to participate in the competition. The deadline to register is March 21.

The Spring Hop, an Easter Egg hunt in Downtown Cranford stores, is also coming back on March 23. This event allows registered participants to explore 20+ businesses, collect eggs, and win a coveted Golden Egg. To take part, just purchase a Spring Hop tote bag for one of two time slots: 12-2pm or 2-4pm.

March 23rd is also marked by the Cranford Chamber of Commerce’s Pictures with the Easter Bunny. The Bunny will be at Cranford Gazebo from 10:00-11:00 am, then and move to Centennial Village from 12:30-1:30 pm. The cost is $5 for a polaroid picture and there will be free lemonade & Easter eggs.

The Cranford Jaycees add to the excitement on March 23rd with a weekend full of events. Saturday starts with their free Easter Egg Hunt at 10 am behind Orange Avenue School. Don’t forget to bring non-perishable food items for donation to Cranford Family Care and receive a raffle ticket for a chance to win fantastic prizes. On Sunday, indulge in the Annual Pancake Breakfast at the Cranford VFW, featuring eggs, sausage/bacon, coffee, juice, and of course, pancakes. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for kids, or $25 for a family, available at the door. Enjoy face painting, a Guess the Jelly Bean contest, a photo booth, and the chance to win more prizes. All proceeds go to support Cranford Family Care.

Festive March in Cranford

Cranford is embracing a festive March of 2024. From the spirited St. Patrick’s Day festivities to the delightful Easter celebrations, the town is alive with vibrant colors, delicious treats, and heartwarming moments that create lasting memories for families. So, mark your calendars and join the community in welcoming the season with open arms and smiles aplenty!

For more reguarly updates on local events, sign up to recieve The Weekly Local and follow WeLoveCranford.

Union County Real Estate Market • March 5, 2024

February Cranford Real Estate Snapshot: Lean Inventory, Soaring Prices, Swift Sales

by Brooke Filosa

Lean Inventory Driving Prices

The Cranford Real Estate Market picked up for February with the Average Sale Price of Single Family homes, jumping to $7661,111, which was 29% higher than last year. There were 9 homes sold for the month, which may seem like a low number, but was an 80% increase over the 5 sold in both the previous month and in February of 2023. The number of homes sold is typically at the lowest in January and February each year then increases as we get into the Spring months and peaks in Summer.

Swift Sales in a Competitive Market:

In looking at the homes sold for the month, you can see that most of them sold quite quickly and for over list price. Although there were 3 homes that sat on the market for over 100 days, the rest of homes sold for an average of 105.7% of list price in only 11 days.

There were 18 new homes listed for sale for the month, which was a nice jump from the previous 3 month trend where we only saw an overage of only 8 homes come on the market each month. And these new listings are going quickly! 9 of the 18 homes have already accepted an offer and are Under Contract, in an average of only 10 days and another 5 are have either accepted an offer or are currently reviewing multiple offers. There are a lot of buyers out there but still not enough homes for them!

The Challenge of Low Inventory Persists:

February showcased a real estate market in Cranford characterized by tight inventory and brisk sales. Although we are beginning to see signs of the Spring Market with an uptick in new listings, the swift acceptance of offers highlights the persistent demand. As inventory remains lean, prices continue to climb, and homes change hands swiftly, signaling a seller’s market that shows no signs of slowing down.

I’ll be keeping a close eye on the market and recapping the latest in my Weekly Local email. If you have any questions or would like any addition information about the market or what you home may be worth, let’s connect!

Follow me on Facebook for regular updates!

Cranford NJ Updates • Union County Real Estate Market • January 2, 2024

🏡 Cranford Real Estate Year in Review: 2023

by Brooke Filosa

Let’s take a look at the Year in Review for the Cranford Real Estate Market. A powerful December put the cherry on top of a year filled with record-breaking home prices and growth in the Million Dollar housing market. Let’s dive in!

MARKET CONDITIONS

Residential home prices reached $695,468, marking a 12% increase from the previous year. Fueled by low inventory, demand for homes drove up prices with only 203 homes selling in town for the year, which was 9% less than 2022.

SALES PRICES INCREASED

In 2023, the average home sold for 5% over the list price. Noteworthy, 26% of homes surpassed the 10% over list price mark, and 9 homes achieved a remarkable 20% over list price. The standout was 45 Wadsworth, closing at $900,000—33% over the initial $679,000 list price.

SWIFT SALES

Homes had a brisk turnover, spending an average of 19 days on the market—27% faster than the year before. It became routine for homes to hit the market on a Friday and attract multiple offers by the following Monday or Tuesday. 58% of homes sold in less than 2 weeks and 15% sold in less than 1 week.

MILLION DOLLAR MILESTONE

The million-dollar housing market saw growth, with 19 homes crossing the $1 million mark—almost double from 2022. The highest recorded price was $1,496,000 for 21 Indian Spring Rd. These homes were predominantly new constructions, renovations, or historic properties.

DECEMBER WRAP-UP

Closing the year on a positive note, December saw 18 homes change hands at an average price of $680,577, a 25% increase from December 2022. On average, these homes sold for 5% over the list price, with 4 Virginia Street standing out at $851,000—17% over the $730,000 list price.

2024 OUTLOOK

Looking ahead, expectations for 2024 are relatively stable. Lean inventory and continued price growth are anticipated, albeit at a more moderate pace. While mortgage rates dropped at the close of 2023, they are not expected to reach the historic lows seen in recent years. A Seller’s Market will likely persist, offering a bit more predictability for Home Buyers. I’ll be closely watching the market. To stay on top of the latest Real Estate and local news, sign up for my Weekly Local email.

Cranford NJ Updates • November 27, 2023

Embracing the Spirit of Giving: A Holiday Guide to Community Acts of Kindness

by Brooke Filosa

‘Tis that wonderful time of year to spread joy! Following a weekend of shopping, embrace the spirit of GivingTuesday—a global movement that inspires millions to give, collaborate, and celebrate generosity. Established in 2012, this day encourages acts of kindness and has evolved into an independent non-profit. There are many ways to celebrate Giving Tuesday in the Cranford area through local community efforts.

Downtown Cranford Giving Tree

Downtown Cranford is kicking off the season of giving with a new initiative featuring Giving Trees at businesses throughout the downtown. Customers have the opportunity to purchase items, ranging from toys and gift cards to haircuts and food, which will be donated to Cranford Family Care. Each Giving Tree will have a unique selection of items, all contributing to the spirit of giving. The purchased items will then be set aside and brought to Cranford Family Care.

A&W Chiropratic Pajama & Book Drive

Another fantastic way to give back is by contributing to A&W Chiropractic’s annual pajama and book drive, led by Alex & Wendy Lyubarsky, the generous Doctor’s that own this business. They collect new pajamas and books for children in Union County, offering comfort to those uncertain about tomorrow. Donations can be made at their office at 190 North Ave in Cranford or via Venmo to @wendy-menneg. Collection continues until the first week of January.

Toys for Tots Event

Support the Toys for Tots Fundraiser by Cranford Booster Club & Cranford Elks on December 9 at 7 pm. Bring an unwrapped toy for donation to Cranford Family Care’s Christmas toy distribution.

Support Cranford Family Care

Speaking of Cranford Family Care, they are a fantastic organization that does so much to serve the Cranford community and are always looking for donations. Explore their initiatives here or watch an insightful interview from last year to learn more about their impactful work!

In the true spirit of the season, let’s come together to make a difference in the lives of those in need. Whether through a Giving Tree, a pajama and book drive, or a Toys for Tots Fundraiser, every act of kindness counts. Wishing you a joyful and fulfilling holiday season!

Sign up now to recieve The Weekly Local, a weekly email with a curated collection of weekly events and updates to keep you in the know!

Cranford NJ Updates • Union County Real Estate Market • October 3, 2023

Cranford’s September Real Estate Market: Lean Inventory and Shifting Trends

by Brooke Filosa

Lean Inventory Persists

The Cranford real estate market in September continued to be defined by its lean inventory, with only 12 homes sold during the month. This marked a 48% decrease compared to August and a 29% decline from the same period last year. The scarcity of available properties has been a recurring theme, challenging both buyers and sellers in the market.

Fluctuations in Sales Prices

After months of witnessing an upward trajectory in sales prices, September saw a notable shift. The average sales price dropped to $600,181, representing a significant 22% decrease from August. This decline was steeper than the typical seasonal drop-off as we transition into the fall months, and it was 16% lower compared to September 2022. While this may seem like a setback, it’s essential to consider the larger context of the market.

Sales Price/List Price Ratio

The Sales Price/List Price ratio, a key indicator of market competitiveness, fell to 101.03% in September. This means that, on average, homes were sold for just over 1% above their list price. While this figure was lower than the year-to-date trend of 104.8%, it was consistent with September figures from the previous year. This suggests that the market remains resilient, with buyers willing to pay above the list price for the right properties.

Competitively Priced Homes Still in Demand

Despite the apparent softening of some market metrics, competitively priced homes continued to be in high demand. During September, 13 homes went under contract in an average of only 14 days, with an average list price of $735,831. This demonstrates that well-priced properties are selling swiftly and often for significantly more than their list price, highlighting the importance of strategic pricing for sellers.

Increase in New Listings

In a positive turn, there were 22 new listings put on the market in September, representing an 83% increase compared to the same period last year. This surge in new listings may provide some relief to buyers actively seeking properties in Cranford.

Conclusion

September’s real estate market in Cranford, NJ, was characterized by continued lean inventory and fluctuations in sales prices. While the average sales price saw a significant drop, it’s essential to consider the broader market dynamics. Well-priced homes continue to be sought after, and buyers are willing to pay above list price for properties that meet their criteria. With an increase in new listings, there is hope that the market will see some alleviation in the supply-demand imbalance. As we move forward, it will be interesting to observe how these trends evolve and if inventory levels can rebound in the coming months.