One of the most memorable stories from my real estate career centers around the sale of a special home that left a lasting impression. I had been working closely with my buyers for some time, assisting them in their search for the perfect property. The market at the time was extremely competitive, with limited inventory and frequent bidding wars making it challenging to get an offer accepted. Despite these obstacles, my buyers remained determined, and so did I.

Our journey eventually led us to a charming house at 27 Stephen Place in Rockaway. It checked many of their boxes, and we felt confident about the offer we submitted. Unfortunately, we found ourselves in a multiple-offer situation, and our bid was not the one initially accepted. Instead, we were designated as the backup offer, a position that can sometimes feel disheartening. While we hoped for a chance, we knew we couldn’t count on it. So, undeterred, my buyers and I continued our search, exploring other potential homes and staying open to new possibilities.

Several weeks later, I received an unexpected call from the listing agent. The agent asked if my clients were still interested in 27 Stephen Place. Without hesitation, I contacted my buyers, and their response was an enthusiastic, “Of course!” Their excitement was palpable, and it was clear that this home had left an impression on them as well. With renewed determination, we restarted the process, diving into negotiations and ironing out the details to secure the property.

The path to closing was not without its challenges, as is often the case in real estate. There were inspections to coordinate, documents to review, and final details to finalize. However, both my clients and I approached every step with optimism and persistence. After a series of back-and-forth negotiations and ensuring everything was in place, we finally closed on the home.

The day my clients officially became the owners of 27 Stephen Place was one of pure joy. Witnessing their excitement as they held the keys to their new home was a moment I’ll never forget. They quickly settled into the neighborhood, discovering everything the town had to offer and falling in love with the community. It was clear that this house wasn’t just a structure for them; it was the realization of a long-held dream.

For me, this experience was a reminder of why I’m so passionate about being a real estate agent. Helping people navigate the ups and downs of the home-buying process and ultimately guiding them to a place they can call their own is incredibly fulfilling. Every client has a unique journey, and being a part of such a significant milestone in their lives is truly an honor. This particular story stands out because it exemplifies the resilience, teamwork, and trust required to turn a dream into reality. It’s moments like these that make all the hard work worthwhile.

As a local real estate agent specializing in tenant placement for owners of mutli-family or multi-unit properties in Rockaway NJ. I can assist you with finding qualified tenants for your property when vacancies arise.

About me: I am a 24-year resident of Rockaway Boro with an in-depth understanding of our local rental market. I can efficiently market your units to a broad pool of prospective tenants and provide thorough screening to help ensure a reliable and timely occupancy. I focus on simplifying the leasing process, so you can rest assured that your property is in good hands, allowing you to focus on other priorities. Also, as the owner you pay no fees - the tenant will pay the realtor fee which is usually one month’s rent.

Additionally, if you ever consider selling your property, I’d be glad to offer guidance and expertise to help you navigate the process smoothly and secure a favorable sale. If you’d be interested in discussing how I can support your tenant placement or sales needs, please feel free to reach out at your convenience. I’d be glad to answer any questions or meet to discuss a strategy tailored to your property.

Nestled within Morris County, New Jersey, Rockaway Borough and Rockaway Township are neighboring communities that, while sharing part of their name, offer unique characteristics, lifestyles, and amenities. Whether you’re considering moving to one of these areas or simply interested in learning more about this region of New Jersey, understanding their distinctions can provide helpful insights into what each has to offer.

In this post, we’ll dive into the history, demographics, amenities, housing, schools, lifestyle, and transportation options of Rockaway Borough and Rockaway Township, highlighting their unique features and what makes each a desirable place to live.

1. Historical Background

• Rockaway Borough: Founded in 1894, Rockaway Borough developed initially around iron forges, thanks to its natural resources. Over time, it evolved into a tightly-knit residential community, maintaining a small-town feel and historic charm.
  
• Rockaway Township: With a broader area and history dating back to 1740, Rockaway Township is one of Morris County’s largest municipalities. Initially, it served as an industrial and mining hub, transforming over the years into a suburban residential and commercial center.

Rockaway Borough’s small-town atmosphere reflects its roots as a more compact community with close historical ties, while Rockaway Township’s larger area supports diverse neighborhoods and industrial remnants reflecting its extensive historical past.

2. Geographic Size and Population

• Rockaway Borough: Covering only about 2 square miles, Rockaway Borough has a population of around 6,500 residents. Its small size contributes to a tight-knit community atmosphere, with local businesses and amenities concentrated in a relatively walkable area.
• Rockaway Township: In contrast, Rockaway Township spans over 45 square miles with a population exceeding 25,000. This larger area is divided into numerous neighborhoods, each offering different residential styles, recreational areas, and amenities, with some parts maintaining a more rural feel.
  
  

3. Housing and Real Estate

• Rockaway Borough: Housing options in the Borough range from historic single and multi-family homes to modern townhomes and apartments. The real estate market here leans towards residential neighborhoods with homes built in classic architectural styles, providing a quaint, suburban feel with proximity to local schools and parks.
• Rockaway Township: Housing in the Township is more diverse, offering everything from larger newer construction single-family homes and estates to townhouses. Some neighborhoods in the Township provide expansive lot sizes and scenic views of lakes and parks, making it appealing for families looking for larger properties with access to outdoor spaces.

The housing style and density in Rockaway Borough generally support a more compact, traditional suburban atmosphere, while Rockaway Township’s larger, varied neighborhoods offer more options for residents with different needs.

4. Schools and Education

• Rockaway Borough: Rockaway Borough is served by the Rockaway Borough Public Schools, which includes Lincoln Elementary and Thomas Jefferson Middle School. Students then attend Morris Hills High School, part of the Morris Hills Regional District, which is known for its strong academic and extracurricular programs.
• Rockaway Township: The Township has its own school district, the Rockaway Township Public Schools, which operates a number of elementary and middle schools before students also attend Morris Hills High School. With more schools and a larger student body, the Township’s district can offer a wider range of programs and services.

Both areas provide quality education through public schools, though the Township’s larger system offers slightly more options and resources for students.

5. Parks and Recreation

• Rockaway Borough: While smaller in size, the Borough is home to various parks like Donatoni Park, which offers a playground, sports fields, and a community space for local events. The Borough also has other parks such as Parks Lake (which part of it is in the Township), Friendship Field, Centennial Park, Heady Field, and Smith Field. The Borough also hosts events throughout the year, like the Rockaway Borough Day and the Parks Lake Spooktacular Trunk or Treat, fostering a strong sense of community.
• Rockaway Township: The Township boasts extensive recreational facilities and parks, including Mount Hope Historical Park, Hedden Park, and White Meadow Lake, offering hiking trails, fishing, and boating opportunities. Additionally, the Township’s recreational department offers seasonal programs, sports leagues, and summer camps.

With its extensive park system and recreational programs, Rockaway Township provides a wider variety of outdoor activities, while Rockaway Borough’s parks are more localized but support strong community engagement.

6. Transportation and Commuting

• Rockaway Borough: The Borough’s small size makes it very walkable, with many local businesses and schools within a short distance. For commuters to New York City, the NJ Transit Dover Station is nearby, and major routes like Route 46 and I-80 make driving to New York City or other parts of New Jersey relatively convenient.
• Rockaway Township: In addition to access to major highways like Route 80, 15, and 46, the Township is close to multiple NJ Transit stations, including Dover and Denville, making commuting by train accessible. The Township’s size does mean that commuting within the area often requires a car, especially for residents living in more rural neighborhoods.

For those seeking walkable access to amenities, Rockaway Borough offers more convenience, whereas Rockaway Township provides more commuting options but generally requires a vehicle for local travel.

7. Local Economy and Employment

• Rockaway Borough: As a smaller, residential-focused area, Rockaway Borough’s economy primarily revolves around small businesses, local retail, and service-oriented establishments. The Rockaway Borough Downtown Business District features a variety of newly opened restaurants, boutiques, and community-focused businesses.
• Rockaway Township: Rockaway Township has a stronger commercial presence, home to the Rockaway Townsquare Mall, large retail stores, and numerous corporate offices. The Township's economic base supports a wider variety of job opportunities within the community, especially in retail and office-based professions.
  

With Rockaway Township’s broader economic infrastructure, residents benefit from more diverse employment options locally, while Rockaway Borough maintains a focus on community-centered businesses.

8. Community Events and Lifestyle

• Rockaway Borough: Known for its community-oriented events, the Borough hosts seasonal festivities like holiday parades, 4th of July fireworks and summer concerts at the Parks Lake Gazebo. These events foster a strong community bond and offer residents a variety of ways to engage with neighbors and local culture.
• Rockaway Township: The Township also hosts events and has an active recreational department that organizes seasonal activities and holiday celebrations. Due to its larger size, events in the Township are often more diverse, offering everything from large gatherings at Rockaway Townsquare to neighborhood-specific events.

Rockaway Borough’s events often feel more close-knit and community-driven, while Rockaway Township provides broader and more varied event options for residents across its neighborhoods.

9. Public Services and Safety

• Rockaway Borough: The Borough has a dedicated police department, fire department, and EMS, ensuring prompt and localized service for its residents. The small size of the community allows for a more personalized approach to public safety.
• Rockaway Township: The Township operates larger public service departments, with multiple fire stations and police patrols to cover its larger area. The Township also offers more extensive municipal services and programs for residents due to its size and population.

Both areas are known for their commitment to safety, but Rockaway Township’s services are more extensive due to its larger population and geographic area.

Conclusion

Choosing between Rockaway Borough and Rockaway Township comes down to personal preference and lifestyle needs. If you’re seeking a close-knit, small-town atmosphere with walkable amenities, Rockaway Borough may be the perfect fit. However, if you desire more housing options, recreational activities, and a broader selection of shopping and employment opportunities, Rockaway Township could offer exactly what you’re looking for.

Nestled in Morris County, New Jersey, Rockaway is a charming suburban town that many call home. Located within a reasonable commuting distance to New York City, Rockaway offers a unique blend of small-town charm with big-city accessibility. If you’re considering moving to Rockaway, here’s a quick guide with some pros and cons to help you make an informed decision.

1. Proximity to New York City

• Benefit: Rockaway is an ideal town for NYC commuters. With NJ Transit trains and major highways like Route 80, Route 46, and Route 3, residents can reach the heart of Manhattan in just over an hour by train or car.
• Impact: This accessibility to NYC means you can work in the city while enjoying a quieter suburban life in Rockaway.
  
  

2. High-Quality Education

• Benefit: Rockaway boasts some top-rated schools, making it a popular choice for families with school-aged children. The Morris Hills Regional School District is well-regarded and offers various programs and extracurriculars for student development.
• Impact: Parents can feel confident in their children's education while living in a close-knit community.
  
  

3. Ample Green Spaces and Outdoor Recreation

• Benefit: Rockaway is close to numerous parks, including Parks Lake, Hedden County Park, and nearby White Meadow Lake. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities like hiking, fishing, kayaking, and family picnics.
• Impact: For those who enjoy the outdoors, Rockaway provides a pleasant blend of nature and suburban life, ideal for weekend adventures.
  
  

4. Tight-Knit Community Feel

• Benefit: With a smaller population compared to major urban centers, Rockaway offers a welcoming and connected community where it’s easy to get to know your neighbors. Local events and community groups help create a supportive, family-friendly atmosphere.
• Impact: Rockaway’s community feel offers a sense of belonging and security, especially for families and those looking for a less hectic lifestyle.
  
  

5. Lower Cost of Living Compared to NYC

• Benefit: While New Jersey is not always the cheapest state, living in Rockaway is often more affordable than renting or buying in NYC. You can enjoy more space for your money in terms of both housing and day-to-day expenses.
• Impact: Rockaway offers the possibility of homeownership and a more relaxed lifestyle without breaking the bank, especially for those who work in higher-paying NYC jobs.

Cons of Living in Rockaway, NJ

1. Commute Time and Costs

• Drawback: While Rockaway is commutable to NYC, it can be time-consuming and pricey, especially if you’re taking the train or bus daily. The train ride to Penn Station or bus ride takes about an hour, and adding travel time to and from the station increases the commute further.
• Impact: If you’re commuting daily, be prepared for the time commitment and transportation costs.
  
  

2. Limited Nightlife and Dining Options

• Drawback: Unlike NYC, Rockaway has fewer options for nightlife, fine dining, and entertainment. While there are local restaurants and bars, choices are more limited, especially for those accustomed to a big-city variety.
• Impact: Residents often travel to nearby towns or NYC for special occasions, adding to time and cost for entertainment.
  
  

3. Higher Property Taxes

• Drawback: New Jersey is known for its property taxes, and Rockaway is no exception. While residents benefit from good public services and schools, property taxes can be a significant expense.
• Impact: Homeowners may need to budget for these higher taxes, which can impact the overall cost of living.
  
  

4. Car Dependence

• Drawback: Although Rockaway has some public transit options, the area is largely car-dependent. Most residents rely on driving for daily errands, commuting to the train station, or accessing other nearby amenities.
• Impact: Those without a car may find it challenging to get around, and commuting by car to NYC isn’t always ideal.
  
  

5. Winter Weather

• Drawback: Like most of New Jersey, Rockaway experiences harsh winters with snowstorms and icy roads. Residents must be prepared for snow removal and potential travel disruptions during colder months.
• Impact: The winter season can bring extra challenges, such as shoveling snow, icy roads, and seasonal maintenance.
  
  

  Final Thoughts

  Rockaway, NJ, offers a wonderful balance for those looking to enjoy a suburban lifestyle with access to NYC’s opportunities. With excellent schools, a supportive community, and plenty of outdoor recreation, it’s easy to see why Rockaway is a top choice for families, professionals, and nature lovers alike. However, potential residents should consider the costs, commute, and seasonal weather when deciding if Rockaway is the right place to call home.

One of the most memorable stories from my real estate career revolves around the sale of this particular home. I had been diligently assisting my buyers in their search for quite some time, but due to the competitive market conditions, we were encountering difficulties in getting an offer accepted. Eventually, we decided to submit an offer for a charming house located at 27 Stephen Pl in Rockaway. However, due to a multiple offer situation, we ended up being designated as a backup offer.

Undeterred, my buyers and I continued our search for alternative options. Several weeks later, I received an unexpected call inquiring whether my clients were still interested in the property. Their response was an enthusiastic "Of course!" With renewed hope, we resumed the process and engaged in a series of negotiations. Finally, after some back and forth, we successfully closed on the home.

Witnessing the joy and satisfaction on my clients' faces was truly rewarding. They have grown to adore the town and the neighborhood, making their dream home a reality. As a real estate agent, there is nothing more fulfilling than assisting people in finding their perfect home.

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