Can you guess what the official seal of Glen Ridge is? Yes, you got it right. It's a gas lamp. Do you know why? Yes, that's right; Glen Ridge is one of the few remaining places in the nation that uses gas lamps! This borough alone has roughly 10 percent of the gas lamps in use in the United States.
Welcome to the land of gas lamps! Your nights are certain to be bright
Can you guess what the official seal of Glen Ridge is? Yes, you got it right. It's a gas lamp. Do you know why? Yes, that's right; Glen Ridge is one of the few remaining places in the nation that uses gas lamps! This borough alone has roughly 10 percent of the gas lamps in use in the United States.
Welcome to the land of gas lamps! Your nights are certain to be bright. If they burn out, just add a little oil and get back to the party. Glen Ridge is near Montclair and very much a part of the Jersey hustle and bustle. The borough is also good at keeping things organized, evidenced by the fact that no other town in New Jersey implemented a zoning ordinance before them. But this borough of 7,527 residents is more than just nifty street lamps. This Essex County town boasts a great public transit system, beautiful old homes, and tons of green space in the surrounding areas. Additionally, you'll discover plenty of eateries and stores to quench your need to shop and eat. Located just over 16 miles outside New York City, Glen Ridge also provides small town charm alongside a bustling metropolitan atmosphere. You can hear that giant city echo in the night, but you can still sleep soundly in your Glen Ridge home. If you want to play with it, step outside and holler back.
You've probably figured out Glen Ridge is a choice spot to live for many folks. When you add in that the school system has consistently been given solid ratings and the crime rate is low, you have an even more desirable spot. With that said, you should know that the process of finding rental housing in Glen Ridge won't be as easy as watching a Tom Cruise film. A renter-occupancy rate of 8.9%, which is significantly lower than New Jersey's average, ensures that.
Should You Purchase?
This depends on a lot of factors. If Glen Ridge will be your home for some time, contemplate owning. Home values have been consistently rising, which makes it a solid investment. However, if Lucky Charms or Cheerios for breakfast is a tough decision, you may want to just stick with a rental property. Also, if your time in Glen Ridge is temporary, or you aren't certain how long you'll reside in the borough, then rent, of course!
Your Renting Blueprint
Okay, you are going to have to formulate a strategy. That low rate of renters necessitates it. On top of that, during many points in the year, there aren't many vacancies. So if you plan on successfully renting an apartment in Glen Ridge, you'll have to be on your toes and ready to hop on any opportunity you see.
-
Look in renter-oriented places. Although detached houses in Glen Ridge total 82.5% of housing units, you'll discover that the very large majority of these are owner-occupied. The key is to specifically check at condo and apartment communities. If you are searching for one bedroom apartments, you may have better luck than someone just looking for a house to rent. However, there are houses available for lease from time to time. The point, though, is that if you want a three bedroom detached house, consider larger apartments as well.
-
Start researching now. If you live near Glen Ridge, drive there and start touring pads well before you move there. If you have to use the internet, begin your housing research now. You want to start the process two months before your arrival. This gives you more time to get on a waiting list (if needed), have a realtor locate some homes for you, and contact landlords directly about openings. This process isn't short, so if your move is less than half a year away, you might as well begin the home search.
-
Come when others leave. In Glen Ridge, folks typically move when school is over. Four schools serve the area, and summer vacation is a common moving time. Hence, you may see the most open listings in late spring. If your personal matters aren't holding you to a strict time frame, come when the school bells have stopped. You can move in just as the previous tenant is moving out.
-
Be quick. If you tour a pad in Glen Ridge you feel you could call home, say you'll take it. Don't go think about it at Sherman Avenue Field. It could be gone by the time you come to a decision.
-
Be a reliable tenant. You do this by preparing all the stuff you will need before you are asked. When you tour a home and find that you like it, have a checkbook ready to pay two months' rent and that security deposit. Also, bring copies of the following: your credit report, personal information, and former landlord references. Most managed communities have an application process, so be sure to ask about beginning that process immediately. If a landlord or staff see you are ready to lease a certain place on that day, you'll be more trustworthy than that other potential tenant in the Bon Jovi T-shirt.
A Note about Historic Homes
67.1% of homes in Glen Ridge were constructed before the 1940's. These houses are full of character, and many boast sweet designs, such as Victorian, American Georgian, and Prairie Home styles. If you decide to rent one, don't let the impressive exterior seduce you. While the high majority run as good as they look, some have issues. Therefore, you should test out some things, like the plumbing and appliances. Don't sign until you feel comfortable that you won't run into tons of unforeseen issues.
The borough is only 1.29 square miles, which is not a lot. However, with so many residents packed in such a small area, different neighborhoods have developed within the borough. So before you watch Buzz Aldrin (born in Glen Ridge) stroll about the moon on your VCR, think about what pocket of town you want to reside.
Major 'Hoods
Bay Avenue/Ridgewood Avenue: Near a rail line and several bus lines, this neighborhood boasts Glen Ridge Country Club. It is also near many restaurants. Overall, the area is somewhat walkable.
Central Glen Ridge: Right near the train station, the central area is very walkable. Some highlights include Hurrell Field, Fitzgerald's 1928 (a popular restaurant), and a variety of housing. If you are searching for one bedroom apartments for rent, this is the best area in Glen Ridge to search.
Washington Street/Ridgewood Avenue: The most car-dependent part of town, this neighborhood is highlighted by Carteret Park and historic houses.
Top Apartment Communities
Glen Ridge Manor: Right near the center of town, this complex features spacious studio and one bedroom pads with a balcony or patio. Parking is provided, and heating and water are included in the rent price. Overall, homes here are very affordable in comparison to the rest of the borough.
The Reserve at Glen Ridge: This cozy condo and town home community features two and three bedroom homes. Also near the center of the borough, this property features a workout center and heated garage. Homes showcase updated appliances and sleek marble baths.
You can get to Newark via New Jersey transit buses. You can get to Manhattan via DeCamp Bus Lines or a train at the Glen Ridge Station. The Montclair-Boonton Line can transport you to the Hoboken Terminal. Within town, walking and biking are very feasible for nearly every errand. Also, if you plan to use four wheels, access to major roads makes it much more convenient. While a high percentage of folks in Glen Ridge choose to drive, you don't need a car to get by here.
The best way to spend your first evening in Glen Ridge is to drive along Ridgewood Avenue and let the gas lamps mesmerize. Take a stroll down Forest Avenue and check out the houses. Once you are grooving to Glen Ridge's vibe, it's time to hit up spots other locals love. Play a round at Essex County Country Club, practice your serve at the Freeman Tennis Courts, and take a swim at the Glen Ridge Pool. When residents want to dine, establishments like Fascino, Star Tavern, and CulinAriane delight. For drinks, spots like Obal's Inn and Town Pub are popular joints. For shopping, Rock Paper Scissors, Strong Hold Shop, and the Bloomfield Shopping Center are there to satisfy. When you seek nature, Eagle Rock Reservation, Carteret Park, and South Mountain Reservation are at your doorstep. Glen Ridge, you see, has plenty to keep you busy. When you want more, just go to the Big Apple, take a bite of it, and come back. Glen Ridge will be waiting to please you.
