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Don’t let summer at the Jersey Shore slip past you!

Posts Tagged ‘ Long Beach Island ’



Don’t let summer at the Jersey Shore slip past you!

Posted on: August 9th, 2023 by admin

Don’t let the show “Jersey Shore” fool you. The coastal areas of New Jersey are a beautiful, relaxing place where people enjoy the beach lifestyle in friendly, down to Earth communities. As anyone who lives here will tell you, once you live at the shore you never want to live anywhere else!

Don’t believe us? Go visit these fantastic Jersey Shore communities for a taste of what life is like here:

Manahawkin / Stafford

Manahawkin is the gateway to Long Beach Island, a beautiful little community that is technically a part of Stafford Township. It’s a warm, pleasant place to live filled with great people and excellent access to local beaches and attractions such as Long Beach Island, Atlantic City, and Seaside Heights. That’s why we are proud to be a dentist serving Manahawkin!

Lavallette

Located just north of Toms River, this sleepy little beachfront community is nestled between the Barnegat Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. It enjoys a close proximity to shore hotspots like Point Pleasant and Seaside Heights, but is itself a quiet town with plenty of local shops and neighbors who know one another. It’s a beautiful place to relax.

Long Beach Island 01

Ocean Beach

Technically part of Toms River, the quaint bungalows that make up most of Ocean Beach make this the perfect community for summer rentals or affordable retirements.

Beach Haven

This subdued community on Long Beach Island is as beautiful as it is quiet. It’s a small town in which everyone knows their neighbor. Longtime residents are common. It’s the ideal place to live if you like to have good friends nearby. Even better, it boasts easy access to the attractions in places like Barnegat and other nearby LBI communities.

Cape May

This historic town is filled with old inns, bed and breakfasts, and romantic getaways. Many of these home have been here since the 19th Century. This is a fantastic place to get away from it all, with great boat tours, secluded places to eat, and more.

Asbury Park

Asbury Park is back and in a big way. Once run down and decrepit, this town is now thriving with great restraints, shops, art galleries and more. It’s a town ideal for hip young people. The bar scene is excellent, the music scene even better, and there are good apartments available. If ever there was a welcome return to form at the shore, it’s the return of Asbury Park.

Wildwood

Sometimes called “The Wildwoods,” though that actually refers to several towns, Wildwood and the surrounding towns showcase the fun side of the Jersey Shore. With a lengthy boardwalk packed with games and rides and places to eat, and a town filled with things to do, eat, drink, see and enjoy, Wildwood is a weekender’s perfect getaway. No wonder it’s such a popular destination!

As you can see, the Jersey Shore is more than night clubs and boardwalks. It’s varied and interesting enough for almost anyone!

How to prep for your Long Beach Island vacation

Posted on: June 7th, 2023 by admin

The Jersey Shore is a popular destination for weekend getaways and week long summer vacations for many reasons, especially the area near our office, which includes Barnegat, Manahawkin, Long Beach Island, Forked River, and other great shore towns. There is plenty to do, the beaches are close to almost any rental you can find, and the entire region is easily accessible from the entire tri-State area. If there is a single headache it’s this: you never seem to have enough room to bring all the stuff you want to bring!

With that in mind, here are some tips on how to pack light. Believe us, it can make the difference between a good summer vacation and a great one!

Source: https://www.pexels.com/photo/green-car-near-seashore-with-blue-ocean-1118448/

You Don’t Need All Those Shoes – It’s easy to get caught in the trap of bringing shoes for every occasion. You need your flip-flops or sandals, your sneakers, your nice shoes for going out to dinner, maybe those boots in case you go for a trek on Long Beach Island. Bad idea! Bring only one or two pairs (including what you are wearing). You’ll be glad you did.

Pack Your Lightest Items Last – Packing your luggage is not a science, it’s an art form, but there are a few tips that can make your packing more efficient and help you get the most into a small space. Packing your lightest items last is one of them. They will be easier to fit into whatever nooks and crannies are left in your bags, are more easily switched around with other items, and in the worst case scenario where something won’t fit, they can easily be thrown into a small extra bag.

Layers, Layers, Layers – If you’re bringing a few bulky clothing items to ward off cooler evenings or rainy days, consider wearing them during your trip to the Long Beach Island summer house you booked. That will save a lot of room in your bags and make travel less of a hassle. Just be sure to crank up the A/C in your car!

Make Yourself A Checklist – It may seem obvious but a lot of people don’t do this – and skipping this step is a bad idea, because planning ahead can save many headaches later! Write down what you absolutely, positively need, and also write down what you need but will be able to purchase once you arrive at your destination. It’s far easier to make a quick stop at a local store for sun block, towels, snacks and other disposable items. Don’t waste space in your luggage on that!

Don’t Fold, Roll – Most of us grew up folding our clothes, but guess what? Rolling your clothes up takes up less room and allows you to pack in more creative, space efficient ways. It also allows you to distribute the weight in your bags more evenly, which will make carry them around far easier.

These few small tips don’t seem like much, but add them together and they will make your next trip to the Southern Ocean County shore area much easier and far less stressful!

9 Fun Facts About Long Beach Island, NJ aka LBI

Posted on: April 5th, 2023 by admin

Anyone who has been to LBI knows it’s a beautiful, cozy community that thrives during the summer months. Whether you own a home there or you just take day trips to the beach, you probably love to visit.

So if you love to visit Long Beach Island, you might enjoy knowing a little more about it. With that in mind, we have some interesting facts for you. Take a look:

  1. Long Beach Island has been battered by some major storms. In 1920, most of the island was destroyed by a devastating winter storm that even reopened a once closed inlet in Holgate. In 1923, another storm smashed the island and knocked out rail service for a full three years, and in 1935, a storm washed out the railroad bridge to the mainland.
  2. Perhaps the worst storm was the Ash Wednesday Storm of 1962. That storm split the island into several pieces and causes the USS Monssen, a Navy destroyer, to run aground. The storm is considered one of the 10 worst storms of the 20th Century in the United States, and almost destroyed all of Long Beach Island.
  3. Long Beach Island was also battered by Hurricane Sandy in 2012. The storm flooded the island and cause the bridge to the island to be closed for 13 days.
  4. The current causeway that connects Long Beach Island to the mainland was constructed in the late 1950s.
  5. Long Beach Island is known as a fairly well to do area of New Jersey. Even as far back as 1970, Philadelphia Magazine joked that “the haves turn right and the have mores turn left,” referring to the turns south and north people make after arriving on the island.
  6. The communities on the north of the island, including Loveladies and North Beach, feature sprawling Victorian homes that often spark rumors of celebrities vacationing there.
  7. Though Long Beach Island is a highly desirable resort and vacation area, it is not comparable to nearby Jersey Shore communities like Seaside Heights, Wildwood, and Belmar. Instead of a thriving night club scene and rides and boardwalks, it’s a family oriented vacation spot with more focus on restaurants, museums, and beaches.
  8. Long Beach Island is home to many fishing and charter boats, some of which get 100 or more miles off the coast.
  9. Long Beach Island is home to the famed Surflight Theater. Built in 1950 by Joseph P. Hayes, for decades the theater has offered a place for the local arts to be performed, including music, dance, theater, and comedy.

What do you know about the Long Beach Island community? How in touch with its history are you? If you know some interesting facts we didn’t mention, tell us about them in the comments!

Book Your Long Beach Island Summer House NOW!

Posted on: February 22nd, 2023 by admin

Summer will be here before you know it, so if you want a Jersey Shore vacation, the time to start planning is NOW!

On Fridays during the summer, the Garden State Parkway and New Jersey Turnpike are often backed up with traffic. These aren’t people going home from work or on their way to the world’s largest pizza party. They are coming to the beautiful New Jersey Coast – and since our dentist office in Ocean County is right near the coast, we have a great fondness for the area!

No wonder Long Beach Island rentals, bungalows in Barnegat, apartments in Belmar, weekend homes in Point Pleasant and more are so popular each summer.

The New Jersey coast is not all created equal, however. Choosing one town over the other can be the difference between finding yourself in the middle of MTV’s “Jersey Shore” and relaxing in a quaint, historic community, so choose carefully!

If you plan to invest in a summer home at the Jersey Shore or to enjoy a vacation along the coast, these are a few of the communities you should be sure to consider when deciding to take a weekend, week, or even the rest of your life away with the family.

Point Pleasant Beach

This is a community that endeavors to straddle the line between a vibrant, active resort community and a quiet, peaceful ocean town. Indeed, this is a town that offers the architectural charm of yesteryear as well as the appeal of great dining and excellent shopping. The residential neighborhoods of Point Pleasant Beach are quiet, but the downtown is often bus with shoppers. Also busy is the boardwalk, which has the area’s only aquarium. There you will find rides, games, places to see bands playing music, and more.

Long Beach Island

The fact is, Long Beach Island (along with nearby communities like Manahawkin) is in high demand for a reason. This stretch of coastal barrier island remains one of the New Jersey coast’s most desirable places to both live and to vacation. Boasting plenty of bay and ocean facing property, it also has shopping, historic sites, and more. Even better, while there are plenty of things to do within a short walk or drive, the town itself is calm enough so that even retirees find this to be a small slice of heaven.

barnegat-lighthouse03

Barnegat

The small oceanfront and bay community of Barnegat, where our dentist office in Ocean County are located, is a popular place for families thanks to its lovely beaches, paths, and docks for fishing and crabbing – not to mention its historic lighthouse. There are more than a few small shops run by residents of the town, as well as waterfront property along both the ocean and the bay. Barnegat is on Long Beach Island, so when we say that Long Beach Island has been increasingly popular in recent years thanks to its quaint, small town feel we include this town in the observation.

Belmar

Not unlike Point Pleasant Beach, the Borough of Belmar offers quiet shore living as well as attractions that will appeal to more energetic visitors. Quaint neighborhoods with snug coastal homes are just a short walk away from some of the New Jersey coast’s most active and popular nightclubs. Set that alongside some of the best fishing on the East Coast, a historic boating community, and a downtown that is a throwback to communities of eras long gone and it’s easy to see why people flock to Belmar each year.

Any one of these communities could serve at the perfect place for your New Jersey vacation or retirement!

10 Reasons Why the Jersey Shore is the Best Place to Live

Posted on: February 8th, 2023 by admin

10 Reasons Why the Jersey Shore is the Best Place to Live

If you’re looking for a great place to live, the Jersey Shore is definitely worth considering! There are plenty of reasons why this area is so popular, including its amazing beaches, friendly people, and relaxed lifestyle. In this article, we will discuss ten of the best reasons to make the Jersey Shore your home. So if you’re thinking about making a move, read on – you just might find what you’re looking for!

1. The Beaches

With miles of pristine beaches like Long Beach Island stretching along the Atlantic Ocean, the Jersey Shore offers unparalleled sand and surf. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach day or an adventure-filled weekend, you’ll find it here. Plus, the shore is home to some of the most beautiful sunsets in the world!

2. Great Weather

From spring through fall, mild temperatures are perfect for outdoor activities like swimming and biking – making it a great place to get out and enjoy nature year round. Plus, visitors can experience all four seasons without having to suffer from extreme hot or cold temperatures.

3. Friendly People

People from all over come to visit and live at the Jersey Shore due to its friendly atmosphere. Locals are welcoming and open, always ready to show guests around or provide insider tips on the best places to go.

4. Historic Sites

From old waterfront homes to modern boardwalks, there’s so much history at the Jersey Shore. For those looking for a mix of old and new, this is definitely the place to be!

5. Natural Beauty

The area is absolutely stunning – with calm blue waters and breathtaking sand dunes everywhere you look. There are plenty of spots for outdoor activities like camping, hiking and fishing as well!

6. Endless Options for Entertainment

Whether you’re taking a stroll along the boardwalk or exploring one of the local amusement parks, there’s always something to do. You can also find great shopping options, restaurants and bars that are sure to please everyone in the family.

7. Great Schools

For families with children, local schools offer excellent education – from grade school through college.

8. Affordable Housing

With a range of houses available in all sizes and price ranges, it’s easy to find something perfect for your budget at the Jersey Shore. Plus, the area offers great real estate opportunities for investors looking for a steady return on their investment!

9. Fantastic Job Opportunities

The Job market here is booming with plenty of positions available both full-time and part-time in various industries ranging from hospitality to technology.

10. Close to Major Cities

While the Jersey Shore may be a calm and peaceful place, it’s still within easy reach of major cities like New York City, Philadelphia and Baltimore. This makes it possible to enjoy both the relaxed atmosphere of the shore while also having access to all that these vibrant urban hubs have to offer.

As you can see, there are plenty of reasons why the Jersey Shore is an amazing place to live. From its incredible beaches and friendly people to its great job opportunities and affordable housing, this area has something for everyone! So if you’re looking for a new home or just a vacation getaway – look no further than the beautiful Jersey Shore!

A Brief History of the local Jersey Shore region

Posted on: November 30th, 2022 by admin

What comes to mind when you think of the Jersey shore? Sun, sand, and sea, right? The shore area of New Jersey has been a popular tourist destination for generations. People have come to enjoy the beaches, the boardwalks, and the nightlife.

But what is the history of this region? How did it become what it is today? In this article, we will take a look at the history of Long Beach Island, Barnegat, Forked River, Manahawkin, and Little Egg Harbor. We will explore how each town developed and grew over time. So pack your sunscreen and put on your shades – it’s time to hit the beach!

Long Beach Island is a barrier island off the coast of New Jersey. It is 18 miles long and about half a mile wide. The island is home to many towns, including Beach Haven, Ship Bottom, Surf City, and Barnegat Light. Long Beach Island was originally inhabited by the Lenape Native Americans. In 1609, the first European explorer to visit the region, Henry Hudson, sailed up the river that now bears his name. The Dutch soon settled in the area, and in 1664, they took control of the colony from the English. The Dutch named the island “Longa Eylandt,” which means “long island.”

In 1782, during the American Revolutionary War, British troops occupied Long Beach Island.

After the war, the island became a popular summer resort for wealthy Philadelphians. In 1854, the first hotel was built on the island. It was called the Surf Hotel, and it was located in Beach Haven. More hotels were built in the following years, and the island became known as a summer playground for the rich and famous.

In 1927, a massive hurricane struck Long Beach Island, causing extensive damage to the island’s towns and infrastructure. Many of the island’s hotels were destroyed, and many people lost their homes. The hurricane was a turning point for Long Beach Island. It was no longer seen as a safe place to vacation, and many people stopped coming to the island.

In the years following the hurricane, the island’s economy declined. Many of the island’s residents left, and those who stayed behind struggled to make ends meet. In 1962, another hurricane struck Long Beach Island, causing even more damage than the first one. This time, the island was hit by a tidal wave that was nearly 20 feet high. The waves destroyed homes, businesses, and infrastructure. Once again, the island’s economy took a hit, and many people left.

In recent years, Long Beach Island has made a comeback. Thanks to its natural beauty and its convenient location (it’s just a short drive from New York City and Philadelphia), the island has become a popular destination for tourists and second-homeowners. Today, Long Beach Island is a bustling community with a vibrant economy and is among the wealthiest communities in New Jersey.

Barnegat is a township in Ocean County located on Barnegat Bay, and it is home to the Barnegat Lighthouse. The town was originally named “Barent Gat” after its founder, Barend Janssen Gat.

Forked River is home to the Forked River State Marina. The town was originally named “Voorhees” after its founder, Cornelius Voorhees.

Little Egg Harbor is home to the Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge. The town was originally named “Foure Mile Run” because it was four miles from the nearest Dutch settlement.

Pack Light for your New Jersey Vacation at the Beach

Posted on: June 29th, 2022 by admin

The Jersey Shore is a popular destination for weekend getaways and week long summer vacations for many reasons, especially the area near our office, which includes Barnegat, Manahawkin, Long Beach Island, Forked River, and other great shore towns. There is plenty to do, the beaches are close to almost any rental you can find, and the entire region is easily accessible from the entire tri-State area. If there is a single headache it’s this: you never seem to have enough room to bring all the stuff you want to bring!

With that in mind, here are some tips on how to pack light. Believe us, it can make the difference between a good summer vacation and a great one!

Source: https://www.pexels.com/photo/green-car-near-seashore-with-blue-ocean-1118448/

You Don’t Need All Those Shoes – It’s easy to get caught in the trap of bringing shoes for every occasion. You need your flip-flops or sandals, your sneakers, your nice shoes for going out to dinner, maybe those boots in case you go for a trek on Long Beach Island. Bad idea! Bring only one or two pairs (including what you are wearing). You’ll be glad you did.

Pack Your Lightest Items Last – Packing your luggage is not a science, it’s an art form, but there are a few tips that can make your packing more efficient and help you get the most into a small space. Packing your lightest items last is one of them. They will be easier to fit into whatever nooks and crannies are left in your bags, are more easily switched around with other items, and in the worst case scenario where something won’t fit, they can easily be thrown into a small extra bag.

Layers, Layers, Layers – If you’re bringing a few bulky clothing items to ward off cooler evenings or rainy days, consider wearing them during your trip to the Long Beach Island summer house you booked. That will save a lot of room in your bags and make travel less of a hassle. Just be sure to crank up the A/C in your car!

Make Yourself A Checklist – It may seem obvious but a lot of people don’t do this – and skipping this step is a bad idea, because planning ahead can save many headaches later! Write down what you absolutely, positively need, and also write down what you need but will be able to purchase once you arrive at your destination. It’s far easier to make a quick stop at a local store for sun block, towels, snacks and other disposable items. Don’t waste space in your luggage on that!

Don’t Fold, Roll – Most of us grew up folding our clothes, but guess what? Rolling your clothes up takes up less room and allows you to pack in more creative, space efficient ways. It also allows you to distribute the weight in your bags more evenly, which will make carry them around far easier.

These few small tips don’t seem like much, but add them together and they will make your next trip to the Southern Ocean County shore area much easier and far less stressful!

Manahawkin is amazing in the summer!

Posted on: May 25th, 2022 by admin

We’re all hoping to escape from confinement this summer and enjoy summer at the Shore. There are some big question marks, of course, but hopefully better days are ahead!

After all, the Jersey Shore is a great place to spend a week or a long weekend, especially the area around Barnegat (where our offices are located) and Manahawkin. The beaches are gorgeous, the shopping is great, the sun and surf are always welcome. It’s amazing how such great attractions can be so close to home!

With that in mind, here are a few things to take in this summer – with proper social distancing, of course!

Sunbathing

This is what most people want to do when they visit the shore! And it’s easy. When you’re staying in towns like Manahawkin and Long Beach Island, the beach is just minutes away. Spread out a blanket onto the beach, relax, soak up the sun, jump in the ocean if you need to cool off. There is a reason why we love having our dentist office near Manahawkin.

Source: https://www.pexels.com/photo/macro-photography-of-black-sunglasses-on-sand-1209610/

Fishing

The Southern Ocean County region has a great fishing community that goes back centuries. Because of that, our fishing tradition is strong and proud, and the doctors here at our Barnegat dentists office take full advantage of that. There is plenty of fishing to go around, too. The area has many public fishing spots and great piers and docks for fishing, plus charter boats are plentiful. It’s as easy to spend a day out on the ocean as it is fishing in the surf or casting into the bay, so if you’re in the area and you love to fish, you’re in luck.

Paddleboarding

One of the fastest growing water sports is paddleboarding. It’s a fun, relaxing, easy way to get in the water and enjoy the shore. Unlike surfing, paddleboarding doesn’t require years of practice. As long as you can stand, you can do it!

Local History

The Manahawkin region is rich with history, from the beloved Barnegat Lighthouse to fantastic local museums that show off the region’s ties to the sea. There are historic buildings to see, parks to visit, and great local historical societies that regularly hold special events. With our dental office near Manahawkin, we enjoy visiting these places. We urge you to pay them a visit, too!

Restaurants

You don’t have to travel far to find some fantastic places to eat in Southern Ocean County. It should go without saying that seafood is popular around here, with fresh catches daily. We also have a wealth of Italian places, great delis, classic diners, a large array of ethnic food, steakhouses, and more. If you can’t find something to eat in our area, you’re not trying!

Cocktails

There is nothing quite like a cocktail near the beach, and region offers you plenty of opportunities to enjoy exactly that. Have a few cold ones, sip on a margarita, and just enjoy a little bit of the beach life before you return to the daily grind. You’ve earned it! Just be sure to visit your dentist near Manahawkin afterward, because some cocktails are not great for your teeth.

As you can see, there is plenty to do in the Southern Ocean County area, and we’ve only just scratched the surface. From watersports to hiking to nature to shopping and much more, you will love your time away at the Jersey Shore!

Where to Find Your Dream Jersey Shore Summer Rental This Year!

Posted on: February 10th, 2022 by admin

Summer will be here before you know it, so if you want a Jersey Shore vacation, the time to start planning is NOW!

On Fridays during the summer, the Garden State Parkway and New Jersey Turnpike are often backed up with traffic. These aren’t people going home from work or on their way to the world’s largest pizza party. They are coming to the beautiful New Jersey Coast – and since our dentist office in Ocean County is right near the coast, we have a great fondness for the area!

No wonder Long Beach Island rentals, bungalows in Barnegat, apartments in Belmar, weekend homes in Point Pleasant and more are so popular each summer.

The New Jersey coast is not all created equal, however. Choosing one town over the other can be the difference between finding yourself in the middle of MTV’s “Jersey Shore” and relaxing in a quaint, historic community, so choose carefully!

If you plan to invest in a summer home at the Jersey Shore or to enjoy a vacation along the coast, these are a few of the communities you should be sure to consider when deciding to take a weekend, week, or even the rest of your life away with the family.

Point Pleasant Beach – This is a community that endeavors to straddle the line between a vibrant, active resort community and a quiet, peaceful ocean town. Indeed, this is a town that offers the architectural charm of yesteryear as well as the appeal of great dining and excellent shopping. The residential neighborhoods of Point Pleasant Beach are quiet, but the downtown is often bus with shoppers. Also busy is the boardwalk, which has the area’s only aquarium. There you will find rides, games, places to see bands playing music, and more.

Long Beach Island – The fact is, Long Beach Island (along with nearby communities like Manahawkin) is in high demand for a reason. This stretch of coastal barrier island remains one of the New Jersey coast’s most desirable places to both live and to vacation. Boasting plenty of bay and ocean facing property, it also has shopping, historic sites, and more. Even better, while there are plenty of things to do within a short walk or drive, the town itself is calm enough so that even retirees find this to be a small slice of heaven.

barnegat-lighthouse03

Barnegat – The small oceanfront and bay community of Barnegat, where our dentist office in Ocean County are located, is a popular place for families thanks to its lovely beaches, paths, and docks for fishing and crabbing – not to mention its historic lighthouse. There are more than a few small shops run by residents of the town, as well as waterfront property along both the ocean and the bay. Barnegat is on Long Beach Island, so when we say that Long Beach Island has been increasingly popular in recent years thanks to its quaint, small town feel we include this town in the observation.

Belmar – Not unlike Point Pleasant Beach, the Borough of Belmar offers quiet shore living as well as attractions that will appeal to more energetic visitors. Quaint neighborhoods with snug coastal homes are just a short walk away from some of the New Jersey coast’s most active and popular nightclubs. Set that alongside some of the best fishing on the East Coast, a historic boating community, and a downtown that is a throwback to communities of eras long gone and it’s easy to see why people flock to Belmar each year.

Any one of these communities could serve at the perfect place for your New Jersey vacation or retirement!

The inside scoop on Jersey Shore real estate shopping

Posted on: December 22nd, 2021 by admin

If you would like a nice house by the shore, you are not alone. The New Jersey coast is a desirable place to live for many reasons, so it’s no surprise that homes in towns like Manahawkin and Forked River are in high demand. That’s why hunting for that prime shore real estate can be a bigger task than you might be ready for.   Have no fear. That’s why we’ve compiled this list of house hunting tips.

Start Saving Now – The best time to start saving your money is BEFORE you begin your hunt, because what you save is going to impact your budget, and your budget is going to impact the houses you’ll end up viewing.

Know Your Needs – Single, childless couple, family. Work from home, commuter, retired. All of these things will play a major role in the kind of house that will best suit you. Know your needs and you’ll know what features to look for.

Figure Your Max Mortgage Payment – Create a highly detailed household budget factoring in everything you can think of other than a mortgage – car payment, utilities, student loans, etc – then add a little extra to account for unexpected expenses and so on. Subtract that from your income to determine your max mortgage payment. That will help narrow down the real state you should view.

Barnegat Lighthouse New Jersey

Know Your Credit Score – If your score is below 620, you may want to postpone your hunt, because getting approved in today’s real estate climate may be difficult.

Focus On What You Can’t Change – Things like the bathroom tiles or kitchen flooring or landscaping can be changed. Instead, focus on the floor layout, sight lines and views, and available rooms. In other words, the things you won’t be able to change.

Get Pre-Approved – A pre-approval will put you in a position to know exactly how much you can spend, which in turn will let you know which home is right for you and which isn’t.

Visit Your Short List Homes Twice – Don’t just visit once. That first visit you’ll be too excited to be viewing a nice new piece of property. You will be harder to impress the second time around and more likely to spot issues that you’ll have missed on your first visit.

View The Neighborhood, Too – It’s not enough to just view your desired house. Take a drive out to Manahawkin or Forked River or wherever you’re looking, get to see the neighborhood, see what shops are nearby, see what amenities are available to you – because unless you’re a commuter who works long hours, you’re not just buying into a home, you’re buying into a community.

Use An Agent – While you can do a lot of house hunting on your own, an agent can be a huge help, especially in a competitive market with unique obstacles, such as searching for shore houses. An agent is a worthwhile investment.

Make A Long List – View a LOT of real estate online in catalogs, through your agent, and more, and make a long list of the properties in towns like Lacey / Forked River, Long Beach Island, and Manahawkin that catch your eye.

Make A Short List – Narrow down that list to a few select homes based on rigorous criteria you set (including some of the advice above).