To see our other Neighborhood Spotlights, check out: https://cbhre.com/category/neighborhoodspotlight
For more blogs, Down The Shore, visit: https://cbhre.com/category/downtheshore
As the southernmost point of New Jersey, Cape May is more than just a beach destination—it’s a coastal gem that blends timeless Victorian elegance with vibrant seaside culture. Whether you’re looking for a year-round home, a relaxing weekend escape, or an investment property with charm and character, Cape May offers something for every lifestyle.
Cape May is famous for its beautifully preserved Victorian architecture, giving the town a storybook aesthetic that sets it apart from other shore points. From colorful Queen Annes to cozy beach cottages, homes here are rich in history and charm. The area’s strong rental market, coupled with a deep-rooted sense of community, makes it attractive to both investors and full-time residents alike.
🔗 Browse Homes for Sale in Cape May on CBHRE.com
Designated a National Historic Landmark, the Cape May Historic District is a walking tour dream. Stroll past gingerbread-trimmed mansions, horse-drawn carriages, and blooming gardens that make every block feel like a step back in time. The district reflects Cape May’s past as one of America’s first seaside resorts, and today, it continues to attract architecture buffs and history lovers from around the world.
🔗 Learn More About the Historic District
A Cape May staple, The Lobster House offers unbeatable seafood with a view. Perched right on the harbor, it’s the go-to spot for fresh catches, classic coastal cocktails, and relaxed dockside dining. Whether you choose the bustling indoor restaurant or the more casual Schooner American bar on the water, you’re in for a local experience that’s as satisfying as it is scenic.
Live theater thrives at the Cape May Stage, located in a beautifully restored 19th-century church. The venue produces professional-level performances ranging from classic plays to modern comedies—making it a cultural must-do after a day at the beach. Their seasonal lineup draws visitors and locals alike, keeping Cape May’s evenings as entertaining as its days are relaxing.
🔗 See What’s On at Cape May Stage
For a deeper look at the town’s rich cultural offerings, Cape May MAC (Museums + Arts + Culture) is your go-to. This nonprofit preserves and promotes the heritage of Cape May through tours, exhibits, and special events at iconic sites like the Emlen Physick Estate and the Cape May Lighthouse. MAC offers something year-round—from ghost tours and holiday trolley rides to craft fairs and lecture series.
Cape May strikes a rare balance: it’s peaceful yet lively, historic yet relevant, upscale yet welcoming. Its walkable streets, strong arts scene, and scenic waterfronts make it one of the most desirable locations on the Jersey Shore. With so much to see, do, and love, it’s no wonder so many people choose to come home to Cape May.
🔹 This post is part of our Down the Shore Series celebrating beloved beach towns across New Jersey. Stay tuned as we highlight even more coastal communities following the acquisition of Acre and Estate Brokerage—expanding our reach and support for clients up and down the shore.
Ready to explore homes in Cape May?
🏡 Start Your Search Now on CBHRE.com
#ComeHomeWithHearthside
Welcome to the first “Down the Shore” spotlight blog of 2025, where we’re highlighting the best communities along the Jersey Shore — one iconic town at a time. We’re kicking off the series in a place that perfectly captures the heart of summer living: Ocean City, New Jersey.
Nicknamed “America’s Greatest Family Resort,” Ocean City offers the best of beach living with a close-knit community feel and standout investment potential. Whether you’re looking for a vacation retreat, rental property, or year-round residence, Ocean City delivers timeless charm and coastal convenience.
👉 Search Ocean City Homes on cbhre.com
Located in Cape May County, Ocean City is known for its clean, guarded beaches, iconic boardwalk, and dry-town policy that contributes to its peaceful, residential vibe.
From beach cottages to modern condos with ocean views, Ocean City’s real estate is as diverse as its visitors. With strong rental demand during peak season and a growing number of year-round residents, it’s a smart market for lifestyle buyers and investors alike.
👉 Start your beach town home search
Thanks for joining us on our first “Down the Shore” stop of 2025! Stay tuned — we’ll be visiting more iconic Jersey Shore towns in the coming weeks.
📲 Ready to make your move? Contact your Coldwell Banker Hearthside agent today or visit cbhre.com to learn more.
Bucks County has seen a significant increase in inventory, with a 36.5% rise year-over-year, bringing available homes to 980 in August 2024 compared to 718 in 2023. Despite more available homes, sold units dropped by 5.9%, with 603 homes sold. Pending contracts rose by 8.2%, signaling a potential increase in future sales.
Median sold prices increased by 7.9%, now at $510,000. Homes are moving slightly faster with an average of 26 days on market (CDOM) compared to 28 last year, and sellers are getting close to their asking prices, with the list-to-sold price ratio at 96.0%, a slight drop from 97.2% in 2023.
Montgomery County experienced a 27.8% rise in inventory, reaching 1305 homes, alongside a 9.3% increase in sold units (897 homes). Pending contracts also saw a 2.1% uptick, showing a steady flow of buyer activity.
Median sold prices increased by 3.2%, now at $465,000, with homes taking slightly longer to sell at 30 days, up from 28. The sold-to-list price ratio dipped to 94.8% from 97.6%, reflecting slightly less seller leverage.
In Chester County, inventory rose by 26.1% to 908 homes, though the number of sold units dropped by 8.1% to 569. Pending contracts decreased by 6.4%, indicating a slight slowdown in future sales.
Median home prices showed a small increase of 0.9% to $535,000. Homes sold in an average of 24 days, slightly faster than the previous year. The sold-to-list price ratio remained unchanged at 98.1%, indicating a stable seller’s market.
Berks County reported a 4.8% increase in inventory, reaching 417 homes, with sold units rising by 2.5% to 410 homes. Pending contracts also rose by 3.1%, suggesting steady demand.
Home prices increased by 7.6% to $285,300. The average days on market increased slightly to 24 days, and the sold-to-list price ratio dropped to 98.2%, down from 100.0% last year.
NE Philadelphia saw a 12.4% increase in inventory, with 500 homes available, but a 5.0% decline in sold units to 247 homes. Pending contracts grew by 2.9%, indicating a potential increase in sales soon.
Median sold prices increased by 5.6% to $290,000. Homes are selling faster, with the average days on market dropping to 31 days from 36. The sold-to-list price ratio inched up to 96.6% from 96.4%.
Mercer County was a standout performer, with a 23.5% increase in inventory, reaching 689 homes. However, sold units decreased by 9.4% to 317 homes. Pending contracts showed strong growth, rising by 18.4%, signaling a potential uptick in future sales.
Home prices jumped by 10.0%, reaching a median of $467,000. Homes sold faster, with an average of 29 days on the market, and the sold-to-list price ratio improved to 98.9%, reflecting strong demand.
GLVR saw a 12.0% increase in inventory, with 768 homes available, but sold units declined by 9.7%. However, pending contracts rose by 7.9%, suggesting potential growth in sales.
The median sold price increased by 4.2% to $345,000, with homes taking an average of 16 days to sell. The sold-to-list price ratio remains strong at 101.1%, though it has dropped slightly from 102.4% in 2023.
Cape May County’s market continues to heat up. The median sold price increased significantly by 29.92%, reaching $692,500 in August 2024. Homes sold jumped by 25%, with 30 homes sold compared to the previous month. Inventory also increased by 11.5%, with 97 active listings, giving buyers more options.
Homes are selling faster, with the average days on market (CDOM) dropping by 25% to 24 days. The list-to-sold price ratio improved to 98.4%, up by 1.55%, showing that sellers are receiving offers close to their asking prices.
In contrast, Ocean County saw a slight cooling. The median sold price dropped by 2.11%, settling at $465,000. The number of homes sold also decreased by 1.9%, with 858 homes sold in August 2024. Active listings experienced a significant decrease of 21.8%, bringing the total to 5,219 homes.
Homes are staying on the market slightly longer, with the average DOM increasing by 4% to 26 days. The list-to-sold price ratio dropped in line with median prices, reflecting a softening market.
Atlantic County’s market showed a mix of positive and negative changes. The median sold price surged by 11.03% to $365,300, while the number of homes sold dipped by 1.1% to 271. Inventory increased by 5.6%, with 1,042 active listings.
Homes are taking longer to sell, with the average DOM rising by 13.04% to 26 days. Despite this, the list-to-sold price ratio improved to 99%, up by 0.72%, reflecting continued buyer interest.
Across all these regions, there are a few key trends to note:
These insights offer a comprehensive look at the real estate market across various counties in Pennsylvania and New Jersey as of August 2024, helping both buyers and sellers navigate a complex and shifting landscape.
Compare to last month’s market, HERE!
Sea Isle City is part of the Ocean City metropolitan area in Cape May County. Charles K. Landis founded the southern New Jersey town in 1882 as a small borough. By 1907, the town was reincorporated as a city. Sea Isle is a popular tourist destination with plenty of experiences for everyone. The city’s oldest building is a Victorian beauty that dates back to the 1800s. Today, it is the Colonnade Inn and offers a charming, cozy place for people to stay as they enjoy exploring the area.
You won’t have any problem finding something to eat when you’re visiting Sea Isle City Beach. There are many restaurants nearby that offer a wide range of culinary options, perfect for even the pickiest of appetites.
The Point — This colorful tiki bar offers a vibrant atmosphere boasting creative cocktails, delicious bites, and live music. The menu features dishes made with fresh, local ingredients and the friendly staff adds to the delectable experience. When you spend time at The Point, you also enjoy exclusive beach access.
La Fontana Coast — If you’re planning a special occasion or a memorable date night, La Fontana Coast provides an upscale dining adventure that transports you to a seaside villa in the Mediterranean. Its refreshing cuisine and beautiful decor are perfectly suited to the breathtaking ocean views, delighting your senses as you relax and unwind in style.
Mike’s Seafood — Mike’s is a Sea Isle legend, beginning its gastronomic journey in 1911 in the historic Fish Alley. The restaurant serves an extensive assortment of locally caught seafood that customers enjoy prepared in-house or via take-out. Or, visit Mike’s seafood market to bring home your favorites and prepare them with your personal flair.
Basilico’s Marketplace — Indulge in tantalizing dishes like veal piccata or lamb lollipops, and experience a welcoming atmosphere that warms the heart and soul. Basilico’s opened in 1999, and the charming restaurant strives to create a comfortable, unforgettable dining journey for all who visit. Enjoy a beach stroll before your meal or sip on a glass of wine (BYOB).
Panzini’s Pizza House — Grab a slice of lip-smacking, cheesy greatness at Panzini’s. They make their dough fresh daily, turning it into classic New York-style pizzas like meat lovers and veggie, or creative concoctions, like eggplant parmigiana.
Giovanni’s Deli and Sub Shop — This local eatery is a Sea Isle landmark, serving authentic Italian cuisine and irresistible hoagies since 1975. The family-owned sub shop is also the place to go to purchase fresh Italian meats, cheeses, ready-made salads, imported olive oils, and other delicious comestibles.
Whether you want a special souvenir or crave an extra snack, the shops in Sea Isle City have something for everyone.
Mrs. Brizzle’s Buns — Stop by Mrs. Brizzle’s for a hot, gooey cinnamon bun when you need a quick and satisfying sweet treat. The shop also offers breakfast and lunch. But don’t go with an empty wallet — they only accept cash.
Maryanne Pastry Shop — Touted as the best bakery on the Jersey Shore, Maryanne’s is a Sea Isle staple, operating since 1944. It offers cakes, treats, snacks, and pastries. Stop by in the morning for a cup of coffee and fresh-baked donuts to start your day. Or order a beautifully decorated cake for a special occasion. If you are determined to snag one of the shop’s signature items, get there early because things tend to sell out fast.
Sea Isle Bait and Tackle Shop — Get everything you need for fishing and crabbing at Sea Isle’s leading bait and tackle shop. The store carries gear for offshore, surf, and inshore fishing, and the knowledgeable staff is ready and able to give you the scoop on local fishery.
Isle Bicycles — If you’re looking for a new bike, this shop carries a large selection of top brands. It’s also the go-to place for accessories and supplies, whether you need new tires or a new water cup. The shop also offers repair services and bike rentals.
Visit the beach on a Wednesday to skip getting a beach tag. Lifeguards are on duty from 10 am to 5 pm on protected beaches. Visitors can surf, kayak, raft, and more at select areas of the beach, plus find spots for volleyball and fishing. Learn everything you need to know about Sea Isle Beach before you go, so you don’t miss a beat when it comes to soaking up the sun and surf.
When you’re not lounging surfside, hitting the waves, or building sandcastles, check out these local attractions.
Boardwalk Casino Family Entertainment Center — Scope out the selection of retro and modern games at this family-friendly entertainment complex. It features the latest games that your kids love, plus old favorites that make seasoned gamers nostalgic for their childhoods.
O’Donnell’s Pour House — Sea Isle’s only Irish Pub opened in 1999 and offers a casual, distinguished dining experience. Choose from a wide menu of mouth-watering dishes, easily accompanied by a pint of Guinness, of course. As you dine, listen to live music, enjoy conversation with friends, and escape from life’s hustle and bustle.
Starfish Deep Sea Fishing — Before your trip, book a charter with Starfish Deep Sea Fishing to spend some time out on the ocean with a capable and knowledgeable guide. Choose from various 4-hour excursions, or ask about their nighttime fishing trips.
Excursion Park — (2 41st St, Sea Isle City, NJ 08243) Stretch out on the green lawn and enjoy a picnic or simply relax in the sunshine. Visit the Sea Isle Visitor Center at 300 John F. Kennedy Blvd. for a list of special events in the park. The grounds host events regularly, including a concert series, movies in the park, craft shows, and more.
Discover more about Sea Isle City, NJ, and find everything you need to plan your ideal beach getaway. Enjoy your visit!
Find more local areas to check out Down The Shore, here.
Peck Beach is a relaxing stretch of sand in Ocean City, New Jersey, butting up against a residential neighborhood. The area was most likely named after a whaler with the same name, John Peck.
When your stomach starts rumbling during your visit to Peck Beach, give it what it needs with a visit to one of these nearby eateries.
Randazzo’s — Stop by this local pizzeria or have a tasty meal delivered, whether you’re craving a delicious calzone, homemade pizza, or crisp salad. Other popular menu picks are stromboli, wraps, and pasta dishes.
Kessel’s Korner — This laid-back eatery showcases a retro vibe that makes you feel right at home with its nod to the good old days. They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner, or stop by the window for some smooth, sweet ice cream.
Old School Burgers — Keep it casual with a messy, juicy burger and creamy milkshake from Old School Burgers. Not in a burger mood? Grab a chicken sandwich or cheesesteak.
Churn House Ice House and Cereal Bar — Imagine a refreshing scoop of ice cream mixed with your favorite cereal. Would you pick chocolate with Reese’s Puffs, vanilla with Froot Loops, or a vanilla and chocolate twist mixed with S’mores cereal? Then add a few tasty toppings, like chocolate chips, strawberries, or Lucky Charm marshmallows. Once you decide on the perfect mix, you can order it in a cup, cone, or as a milkshake.
After lounging on the sand or kicking around in the surf, take a shopping break to score a tasty snack or intriguing trinket.
Topsail Steamer — Pick up a delicious seafood meal to go, all you need to add is steam. Topsail Steamer sells ready-made steam pots featuring local meats, veggies, seafood, and more. Bring it home for an easy-to-prepare dish.
Dot’s Pastry Shop — Satisfy your sweet tooth with a few nibbles from Dot’s. This family-owned bakery offers the perfect extra treat for your beach visit, whether biting into one of their popular creme donuts or picking up a cake or pie for dessert.
Ocean Cigars — This shop combines its knowledge of cigars with a friendly staff well-versed in its product to provide the largest assortment of hand-rolled cigars in the area. There’s also a lounge area to sample cigars and relax as you ponder your purchase.
Hoy’s 5 and 10 — Did you forget your beach hat or need some sunglasses? Maybe you want to buy a few souvenirs for friends back home or get a memento for yourself. Hoy’s mimics a classic five-and-dime with its affordable pricing (albeit not literally five and ten cents).
If you’re looking for a more laid-back beach experience during your visit to the Jersey Shore, Peck Beach offers a small getaway for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the view. Contact the Ocean City Beach Patrol for the latest information and rules concerning lifeguards, recreation, and other important tidbits.
To round out your visit, add these stops to your itinerary.
Stainton Wildlife Refuge — This relatively new wildlife refuge provides an excellent viewing point for various shorebirds and wading birds. It continues to grow and develop and is open from dawn until dusk.
Blue Water Marina — If you need a spot to dock your boat or personal watercraft, contact Blue Water Marina to book a slip. The slips fill quickly, so call well before your visit to book a spot. Many recommendations suggest calling as far as a year in advance. Take advantage of private showers, fish-cleaning stations, free parking, tennis courts, a pool, and restrooms.
Discovery Seashell Museum — This tiny museum has become a local landmark in Ocean City, with a history of over 50 years and counting. Bring the kids to see countless seashells, fish, and a giant shark’s jaw, or pick up a shark tooth necklace as a souvenir.
Learn more about Ocean City’s beaches to make the most of your visit. Happy exploring!
To see our other Neighborhood Spotlights, check out: https://cbhre.com/category/neighborhoodspotlight
For more blogs, Down The Shore, visit: https://cbhre.com/category/downtheshore
Hello friends and visitors! Get ready for an action-packed week filled with festive events, live music, and community fun. Here’s what’s happening:
Start your Independence Day celebrations with a bang at the 52nd Annual Ventnor Mile! The festivities kick off at 5:00 PM on Suffolk Avenue with a bustling market featuring local crafters and vendors. Explore unique handmade items and delicious food offerings while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
At 5:30 PM, enjoy a live performance by our very own “Voice of Ventnor,” Ricky Stevens. His melodious tunes will set the perfect tone for the evening.
The highlight of the event, the Ventnor Mile race, begins at 7:00 PM. Cheer on the runners or join in the race yourself! As the sun sets, get ready for a spectacular fireworks display that will light up the sky and fill the night with dazzling colors.
Join us on Friday morning for the Ventnor City Farmers Market, held from 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM at the corner of Newport and Atlantic Avenue. This weekly market is a beloved tradition running from Memorial Day Weekend to Labor Day Weekend.
Discover Jersey fresh produce, specialty food items, and handcrafted goods from local artisans. It’s the perfect opportunity to support local farmers and makers while picking up some delightful treats and essentials.
Wrap up the week with the Summer Beach Jam from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Head to the beach for an evening of live music, great food, and artisan crafts. The event kicks off at 5:00 PM with food vendors and crafters ready to serve you.
At 6:00 PM, the live music begins with performances by Even Betta, showcasing a variety of musical styles, followed by NJ British Invasion, celebrating the best music. Bring your friends and family for a fun and relaxing evening by the shore.
We can’t wait to see you at these fantastic events! Whether you’re a resident or just visiting, Ventnor City has something special in store for everyone. Enjoy the celebrations and have a wonderful week! For more information, visit: https://www.ventnorcity.org/special-events
For more blogs, Down The Shore, visit: https://cbhre.com/category/downtheshore
Ventnor City is situated in Atlantic County, New Jersey, along the Jersey shore. It’s on Absecon Island and features beautiful beaches that are a favorite of many tourists and locals. The area is a popular oceanside resort and Ventnor City Beach is one of the best in the region.
There are tons of places to eat in and around Ventnor City Beach. No matter what you’re in the mood for, you’ll likely find just the thing to satisfy your cravings.
Bubbie’s Bistro — This Kosher restaurant is only blocks away from the boardwalk. It features pizza and a selection of Italian and Mediterranean cuisine. Bubbie’s uses fresh ingredients and hand-tosses every pizza.
Pulia Ristorante — Pulia brings the flavors of southeastern Italy to the beaches of New Jersey with authentic Italian cuisine that delights the senses. They offer indoor dining and outdoor patio seating, so you can enjoy a delicious meal and a beautiful day at the same time.
Yama Japanese — If you’re in the mood for sushi, look no further. Yama is ready to serve irresistible Japanese cuisine; Katsu, Cha Han, and more. Wash it down with Japanese soda and finish up with some tasty dessert.
Velo Cafe — Velo Cafe is the perfect place to take that special person on a romantic date night or relax with friends over a tasty lunch or brunch. They source ingredients from local New Jersey farms. The cozy atmosphere is an ideal setting for private events.
Get ready to scratch your shopping itch with a visit to one of the local Ventnor City shops.
AAAA Bike Shop — This mom-and-pop shop knows everything there is to know about bikes and is ready to get you rolling. Buy a new bike, check out their selection of used bicycles, or bring your bike in for repairs.
Ventnor City Farmer’s Market — The Ventnor City Farmer’s Market is open on Friday mornings and sells fresh produce and more. Shop for clothes, decor, and homemade goods from over 65 different vendors. The market also serves fresh bread, pizzas, and other yummy snacks.
Jagielky’s Homemade Candy — Treat yourself to decadent chocolatey goodness at Jagielky’s. They handcraft delightful chocolate treats and other sweets perfect for a special snack or to create an irresistible gift basket.
Jules of Margate — The friendly staff at this family-owned boutique makes it their mission to help you find the perfect style and feel and look your best. Stop in to browse the latest trends and pamper yourself with a new ensemble.
Ventnor City Beach is one of the most popular beach areas in New Jersey with an urban vibe. There are many beach clubs with restricted entrances, so you won’t be able to access these spots unless you’re a guest of the resort area. Available activities include swimming, volleyball, and surfing to name a few.
Some highlights to check out during your visit to Ventnor City Beach:
Ventnor City Fishing Pier — The state’s longest ocean fishing pier is right here in Ventnor City. It is 1,000 feet long and has lighting for night fishing. There are also benches and cleaning tables so you can take your time and make a day of it while fishing on the pier.
Ventnor City Cultural Arts Center — If you want to take a little break from the beach, consider signing up for a workshop or art class at the Cultural Arts Center. The center also hosts seasonal sales, dance classes, and many other chances to channel your creativity.
CSURE Children’s Playground — Bring the kids to play at CSURE Children’s Playground if they haven’t gotten enough exercise playing in the surf and sand. The playground has a new cushioned surface, a giant play structure, swings, bridges, and more.
Make the most of your visit to Ventnor City Beach by getting all the information you need before you go. Have a great time!
For more Neighborhood Spotlights, click here: https://cbhre.com/category/neighborhoodspotlight
Interested in other blogs? Check this out: https://cbhre.com/blog