Chatham Township Real Estate: Embrace Sophisticated Country Club Living

Always in Demand, Properties Values Remain High

With residential real estate dating back to the 1800s, many of the township’s Colonial style homes have been lovingly restored to showcase their original splendor while incorporating a host of modern amenities. Expanded Cape Cods and ranch-style homes abound and accommodate a variety of lifestyles. While most homes fetch an average price of $1 million, more upscale properties sell for close to $3 million. It’s no wonder properties hold their value given the township’s enviable proximity to top destinations. Residents work and play all within an hour’s drive. New York City is located just 25 miles east, while the beaches of the Jersey Shore begin 50 miles south. Long-distance travelers appreciate the nearness of Newark Liberty International Airport, which is situated 16 miles east of the township. Commuters take advantage of Chatham’s Midtown Direct Service available via NJ Transit. Passengers arrive in New York’s Penn Station in under an hour at peak times. Though ample parking surrounds the station, a convenient shuttle is available to township residents.

Award-Winning High School Prepares Students for Higher Learning

Real estate property values are also bolstered by Chatham’s top-notch school district. Chatham High School was ranked number one in the state for 2014 by New Jersey Monthly magazine. The district prides itself on offering students a holistic experience where academics, athletics and the arts are highly valued. Real estate buyers with growing families seek out properties in the township to enroll children in this outstanding school system.

Sample the Joys of Country Living at the Park, Pool, or on the Fairways

Residents of all ages enjoy fresh air and sunshine at Colony Recreation Center & Park, which features a sand-bottom pool, complete with two slides, and a relaxed beach vibe. Athletes of all ages and abilities also have the option of engaging in a friendly match on the facility’s tennis courts.

Golfers take to the fairways at Fairmount Country Club where members enjoy numerous amenities. The private club features an 18-hole par 72 golf course, driving range, golf and tennis Pro Shop, four tennis courts, and a swimming pool, as well as a restaurant with spectacular views. Just down the road from the country club is the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge. This 12-square mile natural oasis, which recently celebrated its 50th anniversary, preserves 3,600 acres of wilderness and provides visitors with the chance to experience a place where nature thrives. The refuge serves as a haven for shutterbugs and provides environmental education for nearby schools.

Enjoy Fine dining and Local Theaters

With more than 130 restaurants within a five-mile radius, township residents have a variety of flavorful fare at their fingertips. Charlie Brown’s, a casual bar and grill, is a popular destination for steak and burger lovers. Family-owned and operated Brasa Grille, specializing in Portuguese cuisine, features barbecued favorites. The intimate BYOB is known for its mouth-watering Paella. Right next door is another gem: Marie’s Italian Specialities. Featured on Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives,the eatery serves up hearty sandwiches as well as homemade pastas and classic Italian entrees.

After a fine meal, film buffs enjoy the best of art, independent and foreign films at Robert’s Cinema. The stand-alone theater boasts digital quality film in a spacious, old-fashioned movie house setting. In the nearby borough, the Chatham Playhouse is home to year-round performances that showcase the talents of local actors and playwrights. Residents eagerly await the annual staging of A Christmas Carol as well as Jersey Voices, a summer festival of original one-act productions.

Browse Upscale Shops

Chatham Township is home to dozens of convenient stores located in the Hickory Square Shopping Center. Shop-Rite, CVS, and an independent toy store are just a few of the offerings inside the complex, which is located across the street from another shopping plaza featuring a dozen stores as well as a Starbucks, complete with drive-thru service. In Chatham borough’s quaint downtown, shoppers browse unique, family-owned clothing and home furnishings boutiques. The Mall at Short Hills, located within a 10-minute drive of the township, offers a lavish shopping experience. The upscale destination, anchored by Neiman Marcus, Bloomingdale’s and Saks, is also home to popular eateries such as The Cheesecake Factory, Legal Sea Foods and California Pizza Kitchen.

Savor Living in This Peaceful, Charming Oasis

From its rolling hills and soaring pines to its proximity to city and shore, Chatham Township offers residents a high-quality lifestyle in an idyllic setting. “Chatham Township has a quieter, more rural feel than similar towns in the area because there are very little developed commercial areas and virtually no cut-through streets to other towns,” Mercurio said. “Residents are very active and supportive within the community and school system. Community members work very hard and are extremely vested in the issues and changes that affect the town.”