There’s been a lot of discussion recently about how a government shutdown could affect the housing market. Many homeowners and buyers are wondering if it means everything comes to a standstill.

In reality, the answer is no.

Even during a government shutdown, the housing market keeps moving. Homes in Bay Head, Mantoloking, Point Pleasant Beach, and throughout Monmouth and Ocean Counties continue to sell. Buyers are still submitting offers, sellers are still listing their homes, and closings continue to happen every day. While certain parts of the process can take a little longer, the overall market remains active.

What Usually Happens When the Government Shuts Down

When parts of the federal government close temporarily, certain agencies…

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If you’ve been waiting for the right home to come to market in Mantoloking, this is it. Located on the highly desirable Barnegat Lane, this beautifully designed four-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bath residence offers timeless coastal charm, modern comforts, and exceptional investment potential.

Just across from the bay, the property features a large backyard with room for a pool, providing the perfect outdoor space for summer gatherings or relaxing evenings under the stars. Inside, the home is equally impressive, thoughtfully designed for both entertaining and everyday living.

A classic front porch welcomes you into a gracious foyer that opens to a formal dining room and a spacious living room with a cozy fireplace. The first-floor family room—part of…

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As the leaves fall and temperatures drop along the Jersey Shore, it’s time for homeowners in Bay Head and Mantoloking to think about winterizing their coastal properties. Whether your home is a year-round residence or a seasonal getaway, taking a few preventative steps now can help protect your investment from the harsh winter weather and ensure everything is ready when spring returns.

1. Shut Off and Drain Outdoor Water Lines

Frozen pipes are one of the most common (and costly) winter issues. Be sure to shut off your water valves and drain graden hoses, outdoor showers, and irrigation systems. For homes that will be vacant during the winter, consider having a plumber professionally winterize your plumbing to avoid burst pipes.

2. Check for…

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If you’ve been waiting for mortgage rates to drop before buying your dream home along the Jersey Shore, there’s finally some good news. Rates have begun to ease — and experts predict there’s room for them to come down even more over the next year.

But how far will they go? And what’s driving this shift? To answer that, we need to look at one key indicator: the 10 year Treasury yield. 

The Connection Between Mortgage Rates and the 10-Year Treasury Yield

For over 50 years, the 30-year fixed mortgage rate has closely followed the movement of the 10-year Treasury yield — a benchmark for long-term interest rates.

When the Treasury yield rises, mortgage rates typically follow. And when it falls, mortgage rates tend to decline as well.…

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Big things are happening in Monmouth County—and the buzz is only going to get louder. With Netflix Studios already under construction in Fort Monmouth and expected to open in 2028, our area is set for incredible growth. Once the studios are complete, thousands of jobs will follow, bringing more people who will be looking for homes in Red Bank, Middletown, Eatontown, and across Monmouth County.

Get Ahead of the Demand

When a major company like Netflix moves in, the real estate market reacts quickly. Families relocating for work and investors looking for opportunities will all be searching for the same thing: homes. Buying now in areas like Red Bank, Rumson, or Middletown gives you a head start before prices inevitably rise.

Inventory Is Already…

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If you’ve been waiting for mortgage rates to finally come down, the moment you’ve been hoping for may be here. On Friday, September 5th, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate dropped to its lowest level since October 2024—the largest one-day decline in more than a year.

For buyers across Monmouth County, Ocean County, and the Jersey Shore, this shift could be the opportunity you’ve been waiting for to make your move on a coastal home, luxury property, or investment real estate.

Why Did Mortgage Rates Drop?

According to Mortgage News Daily, the dip came in response to the August jobs report, which was weaker than expected for the second straight month. That signaled a cooling economy, and financial markets reacted quickly. As uncertainty…

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As the summer crowds thin out and the weather stays beautiful, September at the Jersey Shore becomes a favorite time for locals. We like to call this “local summer”—a season filled with sunshine, community charm, and amazing local events that showcase what makes Monmouth and Ocean County such special places to live.

Whether you're a long-time resident, a second-home owner, or exploring the area while house hunting, September is the perfect time to enjoy everything towns like Point Pleasant Beach, Spring Lake, and Belmar have to offer. Here are four must-attend events happening this month that capture the spirit of our vibrant Shore communities.

Brielle Day – A Classic Local Tradition

Brielle Park, 658 Union Lane
Saturday, September 7 | 9 AM – 4…

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At Clayton & Clayton Realtors, we are proud to celebrate 95 years of dedicated service to the Bay Head and Mantoloking communities. As the oldest real estate firm in Bay Head, our legacy stretches back generations, offering unmatched expertise and personalized care to buyers and sellers along the Jersey Shore.

Clayton & Clayton was founded by Stanley Clayton, and the firm has now reached its fifth generation of family leadership. Today, Broker Shawn Clayton brings over 35 years of experience in the coastal real estate market, combining deep local knowledge with a proven track record in helping clients buy and sell luxury waterfront properties along the Jersey Shore.

For almost a century, we have been specializing in waterfront properties along…

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We’re excited to share our newest video walkthrough of one of Mantoloking’s most impressive properties — 915 Barnegat Lane. Just steps from the renowned Barnegat Bay and the pristine private beaches of Mantoloking, this recently rebuilt 5-bedroom, 5-bath home combines timeless coastal elegance with modern luxury.

Watch the Full Video Tour

Get a true feel for the flow of this beautiful Jersey Shore property by watching our exclusive walkthrough:

A Prime Mantoloking Location

Nestled along one of the most desirable streets in town, 915 Barnegat Lane offers the best of Mantoloking real estate. Residents enjoy easy access to Barnegat Bay for boating and water sports, while the private beaches of Mantoloking, NJ are just a short stroll away.…

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There’s something magical about September at the Jersey Shore. The beaches are quieter, the air feels crisper, and the local towns come alive with community festivals and fresh flavors. This year, Flavor the Shore 2025 celebrates the best of Monmouth and Ocean counties—pairing seaside events with prix-fixe menus from some of the area’s most beloved restaurants.

From Bay Head to Spring Lake, Sea Girt, Mantoloking, and Point Pleasant Beach, locals and visitors alike can indulge in a month filled with food, fun, and oceanfront charm.

Top Restaurants Along the Shore

  • The Breakers on the Ocean (Spring Lake) – A Jersey Shore landmark, this oceanfront hotel restaurant pairs sweeping views with classic fine dining. It’s an elegant choice for a…

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