Steve,

You have several options open to you -- 1) you can look at nearby towns (Cranford, Garwood, Scotch Plains, Roselle Park, Linden -- these all have homes priced below $400K); 2) you can look at other styles of homes
-- there are a couple of Split Levels currently available in Kenilworth -- this floorplan may better fit your needs;
3) lastly, be sure you are working with a "Buyer's Agent" -- he or she can ensure that the recent "comps" are pulled to ensure that your Offer is appropriate -- location, condition, size, etc. -- these all s/b reflected in the price.

I'd be happy to work with you if you are seeking a Buyer's Agent -- I take a very analytical approach
which many Agents don't -- if you're looking for a "numbers person", please contact me.

Marilyn Holda-Fleck
Prudential NJ Properties
Marilyn.Holda-Fleck@PrudentialNewJersey.com
Cell: 908-456-0779

Steve, Kenilworth, like any other town, has prices that vary depending on condition and location. It really is in your best interest to have a local realtor go over the comparables with you, and guide you on which homes may be worth more or less because of the specific location. If you need assistance, please let me know. My office is located in the neighboring town of Westfield, and we regularly list and sell in the area.
Gina Suriano Barber
Coldwell Banker,Westfield
(908) 301-2012

Hi Steve,

These homes are typically selling for $280,000 to $325,000 and like you said, usually need some work. I would not pay $350,000 in Kenilworth unless the home were in very good condition. 9 out of 16 sales in Kenilworth in 2008 have been between $245,000 and $332,500. You should be able to find something reasonable for around $300,000. Good luck!

-Marc

Hi Steve, if you'd like I'd be able to help you. Kenilworth is within my coverage area of Union, Middlesex, Morris, Somerset and Essex Counties. I actually live in Linden practically next door and also another option for cape cods with true 3-4 bedrooms within the same price range. I grew up in the Sunnyside section of town which seems to be quite desirable to, most people living in this area do so for a very long time. That has got to be a good sign.

Either way I'd be glad to help you find something in Kenilworth. Give me a call to discuss your situation in more detail.


--
Victor Kaminski
Owner / Broker Manager
Marivic GMAC Real Estate
2056A Lincoln Hwy. (Rt.27)
Edison, NJ 08817-3330
Office: 732-650-9911 Ext.302
Cellular: 908-884-5757
Toll Free: 1-866-745-GMAC(4622) Ext.302
http://www.MarivicRealty.com
http://www.realrep.com

This type of thing is really dependent on the exact home, the exact location of the home, etc. In the past 6 months, homes have been selling for between 5-10% below asking price nationwide. You could use that a fairly rough benchmark of what a $350,000 home would sell for in this area.

I think you should consider hiring a real estate agent who will can help you pick out good values using market analyses, past sales, etc. Try seekingagents.com, you can use it to compare many Realtors from the Kenliworth area at the same time.

Best of luck!