Hi Joey:

It's great that you noticed the jump in HOA fees (home owners association), because often time buyers don't realize how important they are in the overall picture.

Every HOA group has it's share of issues, but many are HOA's are run seamlessly. Then you have other instances (often times in newer construction communities) where the HOA group may not be run as efficiently. These are the types of communities you want to be cautious about. Not only will a poorly run HOA be headache for you while you live in that community, but if you try to sell your home it could make it difficult for you to attact new buyers if your HOA develops a questionable reputation.

Cedar Glen is a community that is going through some serious challenges right now. As was already mentioned, it has been alleged that the homeowner's association was mismanaged. HOA fees increased dramatically, home values decreased significantly and now many of the home owners are frustrated.

If you're looking for a townhome around the mid $200K's (specifically in the Howell / Freehold areas), I'd like to recommend you consider other communities that seem to have HOA organization with more history. Some that come to mind include Strickland Farms, Independence Square, Patriot's Point, Wyndham Place, Adelphia Greens, Poet's Corner or Raintree.

If you're interested in Manalapan perhaps you should consider Knob Hill. Here's an attractive 1st floor golf view "Augusta" model I just listed ->>>> http://amberlovesrealestate.com/view-my-listings.asp?listing…

Please let me know if I can be of assistance to you in your home search.

All the best,
Amber

AMBER NOBLE-GARLAND
Weichert Realtors
455 Route 9 South
Manalapan, NJ 07726
917-723-5645-cell
732-831-6176-private fax

http://www.AmberLovesRealEstate.com

"Your Reliable Resource For NJ Real Estate, Local Info & More"

Hi Joe. The association was taken over 6 months ago, and the fee was raised in April to 275/month. I have a client who asked this same question and here was the response from the association. One reason for the increase in fees is due to them going over budget during the winter time with the snow we had this year. Second, there are 18 of the 99 townhomes that are not in good standing with their fees. That means, almost 20% of the community hasn't paid their dues in over 30 days. So unfortunately, it seems as though everyone else has to pay extra to make up for those who cannot pay. There also is no cap on the fee so it can be raised again if necessary.
On the positive side, Cedar Glen is close to Rt 9 and right next to 195. The prices in the community are already fairly low for 3 bedroom townhomes. They are also newer so you don't have to worry about replacing the hot water heater or furnace right away.
If you have any other questions about Cedar Glen, feel free to call or e-mail me. There are currently only 2 left for sale-the short sale that was reduced to 239k this week, or the end-unit at 279k, both on New Castle.

Jillian Mason
Direct: 732-586-5488
E-Mail: jillian@jillianmason.com