The Book August 2025 by bay magazine

LONG BEACH ISLAND’S PREMIER REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE MIDSUMMER

Celebrating 100 Years!

Times have changed...the knowledge, integrity & professionalism have not.

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fixed pricing of $299 square foot, there are no surprises—just a clear path to your dream home on your lot.

This Walters pre-designed home is fixed price (per square foot), giving you a clear and predictable starting point for your budget—all with the flexibility to customize. A full build typically takes several months to complete, depending on property conditions and permit timelines.

“We feel like we definitely chose the right builder. Our home was efficiently completed in nine months,” say Surf City homeowners Tony and Debi.

T O P R E C E N T T R A N S A C T I O N

T O T A L S A L E S V O L U M E 2 0 2 4

S A L E S V O L U M E S I N C E 2 0 1 9

Your Isla nd Journey starts with US

HOMES CRAFTED FOR THE COAST

The Jersey Shore may be a summer escape to many, but here on Long Beach Island (LBI), we call it home. Unlike some of the more bustling parts of the Shore, LBI boasts a refined, relaxing atmosphere and a deep sense of community along the entire island. With ocean breezes, waterfront views and peaceful beach life, LBI offers not only a timeless summer retreat, but an exceptional place to be year-round.

Whether you envision early-morning walks on the beach, entertaining on a rooftop deck or simply a quiet retreat, your custom Shore home is closer than you think. Walters—an award-winning builder rooted in the LBI community for more than 40 years—makes it easy to bring your coastal vision to life, right on your own property.

There’s something special about building on land you already know and love, whether it has been in

your family for generations or something you have recently acquired. This summer with Walters, you can bring a stunning, pre-designed 2,620 square foot home to life on your existing property.

Designed for a modern coastal lifestyle, this 5-bedroom, 3½-bath home offers thoughtful features that elevate both comfort and style. Enjoy the convenience of accessibility with a two-car garage and private elevator. A bright, open-concept kitchen and living space welcomes you with effortless coastal elegance—perfect for entertaining and capturing the essence of seaside living. High-end finishes like hardwood floors, quartz countertops and energy-efficient Café-style appliances adorn the home, bringing elegance and functionality to everyday life. Andersen 400 Series windows and sliding doors invite in natural light and ocean breezes while keeping your home protected from the elements. Plus, with spacious outdoor decks on

PRE-DESIGNED HOME - ARTIST’S RENDERING

every level—including a private rooftop retreat—you will have plenty of perfect places to relax, gather, or just enjoy the view.

Picture yourself sipping coffee on your rooftop deck in the morning, waking up with the crashing waves; imagine gathering with friends and family in your open concept living room, cooling off after a hot day on the beach. Walters prides themselves on designing lifestyle-oriented homes that embody luxury, comfort and functionality, all with the quality craftsmanship that building on the Shore requires.

“We love open floor plans, tons of light and something that is nice sized, but not too big for our family of four,” say homeowners Jeff and Ali, who built their Harvey Cedars home with Walters. “From a design perspective, we gravitate towards Walters modern coastal aesthetics.”

Walters gives you the best of both worlds: the flexibility to customize your home with expert guidance, and the ease of moving forward with a beautiful pre-designed plan. Built with care and expert craftsmanship, this home can be constructed right on the property you already love. Plus, with

What’s Inside

• 2,620 sq. ft.

• 5 bedrooms, 3½ baths

• Two-car garage

• Private elevator

• Open-concept kitchen and living spaces

• Hardwood floors

• Quartz countertops

• Energy-efficient Café appliances

• Andersen 400 Series windows and sliding doors

• Spacious outdoor decks on every level, including private rooftop deck

fixed pricing of $299 square foot, there are no surprises—just a clear path to your dream home on your lot.

“We feel like we definitely chose the right builder. Our home was efficiently completed in nine months,” say Surf City homeowners Tony and Debi.

The Walters process includes three phases: Architecture, Interiors, and Construction. First, the Walters Architecture team evaluates your property and works to understand your lifestyle, goals and aesthetic preferences. Once your architectural plan is finalized, you’ll move on to the Interior Design phase, guided by our experienced designers to select fixtures and finishes. When you are completely happy with your plan, you can rest easy knowing the Walters Construction team will bring your vision to life with care.

“It was a very easy process for my wife and myself. We just had to pick out what we wanted and Walters did the rest,” says homeowner Frank.

“I highly recommend Walters to anyone who wants their dream house built.”

Why does Walters offer this unique opportunity? Because this is their home, too.

Ed Walters, Jr., Founder and President of Walters Homes, grew up on LBI, where he helped build his parents’ home in Surf City in the 1970’s. From this, he developed a love of construction and a commitment to building up the Shore community.

“This is where it all began and this is what inspires us to bring our home building experience to communities all over Long Beach Island and beyond,” says Walters. “We are passionate about helping others bring their coastal dreams to life.”

READY TO BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME?

Bring your vision to life with a trusted LBI builder. Contact Walters today to view floor plans, schedule a consultation, and get your questions answered.

Walters founded Walters Homes in 1984, building on his passion for construction and deep connection to the island. What began as a small, family-run business has grown into a highly respected regional builder, known for everything from custom beach front retreats to functional, affordable apartment communities. Through it all, Walters has remained committed to crafting homes that are comfortable, innovative and luxurious—all while giving back to the community they call home.

Now, 40 years later, Walters has become a cornerstone of New Jersey real estate. With over 2,000 homes built along the Jersey Shore and an award-winning team—most recently receiving a 2025 Shore Builders Association award—the Walters name is trusted by homeowners up and down the coast.

Quality is non-negotiable at Walters. Clients recognize the use of premium materials and the craftsmanship evident in each home. Whether it’s the exquisite tile work, the luxurious flooring choices, or the state-of-the-art appliances, every aspect of their homes is a testament to the highest standards of construction.

“We were very satisfied with the quality materials and craftsmanship of our new home. Situations that required improvement were addressed and resolved,” attests a recent homeowner.

Moreover, Walters’ commitment to sustainable building practices has also set them apart from their competitors. They implement a range of environmentally friendly techniques and materials

in their construction process, demonstrating a respect for the environment as well as a commitment to long-term sustainability. Such practices do not only appeal to eco-conscious clients but also enhance the overall quality and efficiency of their homes, contributing to their reputation as a top luxury builder.

Beyond construction, Walters offers comprehensive services that encompass every stage of the homebuilding journey. From initial design consultations to navigating financing options and managing construction timelines, Walters provides a holistic experience under one roof. Even after the completion of a home, Walters continues to support their clients with guidance on warranties, maintenance, and any post-construction questions.

Even after the keys are handed over, Walters continues to excel in customer service. Clients appreciate the team for their prompt responses, knowledgeable guidance, and proactive approach to post-construction needs. Whether it’s addressing warranty queries or providing maintenance advice, Walters remains dedicated to meeting every homeowner’s needs long after move-in day.

“Our Walters closing coordinator walked us through all of the important aspects of new shore home maintenance and warranties. We were also given documents to use as a reference for annual home protection and winterization,” shares another client.

With Architecture, Design and Construction teams all under the same roof, building your home with Walters is a seamless and collaborative process from the moment you reach out. The in-house Walters Architecture team uses expert property analytics and cutting-edge tools to guarantee your home is perfectly suited to your lot and lifestyle.

Looking to adjust the layout or choose your own finishes? The Walters team is always ready for homeowners who are particular about their new spaces. “Your home should reflect your lifestyle and personal preferences—now and in the future,” says Matt Walters, Director of Business Development at

Walters Homes. While Walters offers fixed pricing to help keep your project on budget, they also specialize in fully custom homes with transparent cost-plus pricing—builder cost plus a minimal feegiving you flexibility in your design and peace of mind in your budget. Plus, the entire architecture and design process—with multiple rounds of revisions—is complimentary, so you can truly make your home your own.

The Walters Design Center, located in Barnegat, NJ, offers a curated experience to make your dream home feel truly yours. The Walters team offers experienced guidance through every step of the homebuilding process, without compromising your personal tastes.

“We hired Walters to build our dream home in Harvey Cedars. The entire team, from Architecture, Sales, Design and Project Management, were outstanding,” says homeowner Todd. “Our custom home was designed and built with nothing spared. We couldn’t be happier with the entire process and would recommend Walters without hesitation.”

Employing ENERGY STAR® certified construction, award-winning service, and a dedicated support team, you can build with confidence, knowing every detail is designed to last.

About Walters

Walters has been building quality homes at the Jersey Shore since 1984. The company offers Architecture and Custom Homes, and all-inclusive services that seamlessly bring a homebuyer’s dream vision to reality. Walters Architecture is a complimentary service that allows homebuyers to work with in-house architects to design the perfect home with the latest technology and quality

building materials. Walters offers newly designed custom home plans that help homebuyers through the homebuilding process. Every custom home built by Walters meets or exceeds the energy efficiency requirements for ENERGY STAR® certification. Walters is located at 701 Central Ave, Ship Bottom, NJ 08008. To learn more, call 609.361.7000 or visit waltershomes.com.

MATT WALTERS DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Ask the Realtor

BONNIE WELLS BROKER | OWNER OF COASTAL LIVING REAL ESTATE

Specializing in Marketing Management since 1985, Bonnie Wells has built a distinguished career that began with a focus on the Eastern Seaboard for a D & B Software Company. She relocated to New Jersey in 1989, bringing her expertise and passion for real estate to new markets. Holding a Broker’s Real Estate License in both New Jersey and Florida, Bonnie has facilitated relocations for clients from all over the world.

Written by Jenna Cowperthwaite

Do I Even Need a Buyer’s Agent?

With new rules established in 2023 by the National Association of Realtors (NAR), selling agents can no longer disclose buyer agent commissions within listings posted on the MLS. In addition, buyers and their agents are now required to negotiate and document compensation agreements before touring properties.

Historically, most real estate agreements were structured so that the seller paid the listing agent, who would then share a portion of their commission with the buyer’s agent. With the shift in how compensation is disclosed, some buyers are beginning to question whether hiring a buyer’s agent aligns with their needs—especially if they

believe it could simplify the process or reduce costs.

That said, having a seasoned professional guide you through the complex home-buying process is often invaluable. Opting to go it alone may seem like a shortcut, but it can lead to oversights, missed opportunities, or unfavorable negotiations.

When a buyer has an agent dedicated exclusively to their interests, the benefits can be significant. A buyer’s agent uses their market expertise and industry relationships to identify ideal properties, schedule showings, and provide guidance on everything from layout to

Photos by Real Estate Cinema

location. They also share insider knowledge—such as which streets are more prone to flooding during full moons and storm tides, which areas have the strongest rental demand, or even which neighborhoods offer the most convenient access to island favorites, whether it’s top-rated dining spots, live theatre, local museums, boutique shopping, or hidden treasures that only the locals know about. These nuanced details, often picked up through years of local experience, may not appear in official disclosures, but can significantly impact your long-term satisfaction or investment return.

While it may seem counterintuitive, working with a buyer’s agent can often lead to financial advantages. Remember, the listing agent represents the seller and is not obligated to advocate for the buyer. A skilled buyer’s agent can help negotiate fair pricing, identify inspection issues that warrant a reduction, and protect their client’s investment through every step of the transaction.

There’s also a strategic angle to consider from the seller’s perspective. Offering compensation to a buyer’s agent can broaden the property’s exposure and attract more qualified, ready-to-act buyers. Over time, the practice of sellers covering commissions became common because buyers were generally more “cash poor,” while sellers had more liquidity at closing. By offering compensation to the buyer’s agent, sellers may improve their chances of securing a quicker, smoother sale with a well-prepared buyer. Still, sellers should always consult their listing agent or attorney to determine the best compensation strategy for their situation.

The bottom line: in a transaction as substantial as buying or selling a home, having professional representation on both sides remains critically important. A trusted advisor can help navigate negotiations, avoid pitfalls, and ultimately make the difference between a stressful experience and a successful outcome.

The ultimate set and forget? Your landscaping. With thoughtfulness woven into every design, our team at Ash Outdoor can plan your ultimate 9-5 escape for today and years to come. Set that Out Of Office notification and relax.

Brant Beach Yacht Club Area

New Construction

Creatively designed coastal new construction in the desirable Brant Beach Yacht Club area. This 4-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom beach retreat offers 2,100 square feet of thoughtfully planned living space, featuring open-concept interiors, custom kitchen, trim work, and an elevator. Enjoy ocean breezes and sweeping island views from the rooftop deck, or unwind by the saltwater pool—an ideal setting for relaxed shore living. Still time for customization! Fall 2025 completion.

Beach Haven Crest Bayside

New Construction

Currently under design, this approximately 2,800 square-foot new construction home features 5 bedrooms, 4.5 bathrooms, and a den/TV room. The open, reversed floor plan includes a custom kitchen with top-of-the-line appliances and an elevator. The backyard is complete with an outdoor kitchen and a saltwater pool. Enjoy endless bay views the list goes on and on. There's still time for customization!

David J Cowles, Broker/REALTOR

Michael Cowles REALTOR

Office: (609) 492-1300

David’s Cell: (609) 290-0779

Michael’s Cell: (609) 290-3680

Office: 609.492.1300

2900 Long Beach Blvd.,Long Beach Township, NJ

2900 Long Beach Blvd., Beach Haven Gardens, NJ

Oceanblock, Ocean views in North Beach. Spacious, well -maintained contemporary home features 5 bedrooms {2 en-suite), 3.5 baths, an open living, kitchen and dining area, family/entertainment room with bar and gas fireplace, beautifully refinished oak hardwood flooring, multiple decks, 2nd floor sun/exercise room, 2-car garage, 2 tiled bonus rooms and additional storage room for all your beach gear on the garage level, deeded ocean access, lush landscaping by David Ash and ample space for a pool! Fantastic rental potential. Ready for immediate occupancy.

$2,499,000

Sometimes More Is More ...... Spacious 3,000+ sq. ft. beach house located very close to the ocean. 6 bedrooms, 5 1/2 baths, 3 living rooms, 6 blocks away from Bay Village. In terms of desirability, this property has it all!

$3,650,000

An LBI Classic! Circa 1912 Craftsman style beach house located one block away from the ocean in one of the Islands’ most desired areas. 7 bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths, large front porch, back deck, detached garage and off street parking. A short walk to EVERYTHING fun on LBI.

A boater’s paradise. Experience waterfront

6- stop elevator, 2 decks (including an oversized rooftop), garage for storing all your beach and boating gear, outdoor shower and 4 boat slips including 2 drive-on PWC docks. Offered turn-key in immaculate condition.

$2,350,000

1,200+ sq. ft. elevated ranch renovated in 2010. Light, bright open floor plan with 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, multi-zone ductless a/c, gas hwbb heat, wood floors, granite kitchen, master suite, deck, garage, recreation area, brick paved driveway & walkways & fenced yard. Location-wise it doesn’t get much better. Shopping, fine dining, marinas, parks, museums and theatre all within easy walking distance. The property is designated as a detached condominium that shares a 60’ x 105’ lot. Move-in condition.

$1,299,000 MOVE-IN, TURN-KEY 2 family home located in the oceanblock just 7 houses away from the beach!!! Completely re-built in ‘15 with two 2024 A/C systems. This gem has 3 bedrooms and 1 bath/floor, granite kitchens, cool coastal interior designs and a $85K-$90K rent history. Worth a look!! $1,649,000 SOLD

$2,249,000

David J Cowles, Broker/REALTOR

Michael Cowles REALTOR

Office: (609) 492-1300

David’s Cell: (609) 290-0779

Michael’s Cell: (609) 290-3680

2900 Long Beach Blvd.,Long Beach Township, NJ

Office: 609.492.1300 2900 Long Beach Blvd., Beach Haven Gardens, NJ

Exciting opportunity to purchase a 100’ x 100’ property with 100’ beach frontage and 2 income producing duplexes. The duplexes average gross income the past 3 years 2022-2024: $177,000. The lot is a great site to build a large new home. It also has subdivision potential. A one-of-a-kind property

$5,250,000

Top Location “Picture Perfect” Cape Cod beach home located close to the beach & a short walk to all Beach Haven activities. 4 BR, 2 BA, 3 decks, large storage, spotless. Fully furnished, move-in condition. $1,499,000

Very cool 60’s style raised ranch located on an oversized 112’ x 125 BAYFRONT lot. 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, large master suite, enormous living room, dining room, granite kitchen and extra-spacious deck make up the main living floor. Down below is a studio area, large garage and additional storage areas. The site itself is one of the finest you’ll find anywhere on LBI. 125’ of waterfrontage with a 317’ x 191’ riparian grant and small beach area.

$3,250,000

Gorgeous Bayblock beach house with a very sharp coastal interior design. 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, family room, 2 master suites, in-ground pool and great Bay Views!

$2,850,000 Beach Haven-LBl’s most exclusive & private development: Marina, boat slip, tennis/pickleball, clubhouse, pool & spa, 4 BR, 3 full baths, family room, master suite, attractive & furnished. Move-in condition. $1,210,000 Unique, one-of-a-kind OCEANFRONT Two Family home with fantastic access to beach and bay and magnificent water views. Each modern apartment has 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths. Income range $120K$140K per season. Move-in condition!

$3,395,000

1031 Exchanges Explained

A Guide to Turning Property Sales into Tax Savings

Written by Susan Field

In a community where owning investment properties is prevalent, it is important to know how to maximize wealth through tax-deferred real estate investing. A 1031 Exchange allows investors to defer capital gains tax by reinvesting in like-kind properties, promoting long-term growth and portfolio optimization.Only investment properties that generate income qualify for 1031 Exchanges.

Joe Manzo, owner of Elite 1031 Exchanges, LLC., shared information and benefits about 1031 Exchanges.

What is a 1031 Exchange?

A 1031 Exchange, under IRS Section 1031, allows investors to defer capital gains tax when selling investment properties. The proceeds are reinvested into similar (like-kind) properties, promoting longterm growth and portfolio optimization.

1031 Exchanges can be performed on properties owned across the 50 states and the District of Columbia.

The 1031 Exchange has to be in place before the sale and follows a strict timeline.

What is capital gains tax?

Capital gains tax is a type of income tax levied from

profits made from the sale of assets, such as real estate. The tax is due when an investment is sold. What Types of Properties Qualify?

Investment properties that generate income.

Like-Kind Properties: real estate that is of a similar nature or character as the property being sold.

Benefits of a 1031 Exchange

Tax Deferral: Defer paying capital gains tax in order to reinvest funds.

Portfolio Diversification: Exchange a property for multiple properties or different types of properties.

Build Wealth: Capitalize on tax savings to invest in higher-value properties.

Steps and Timeline

Identify replacement property within 45 days of the closing date

Close on Replacement Property within 180 days.

If you are interested in doing a 1031 Exchange, Please reach out to Elite 1031 Exchange for more information by emailing Info@elite1031.com, or by calling 800-865-1031

$7,495,000

• Rare opportunity to own one of the last legacy estate bayfront tracts on Long Beach Island

• Sprawling nearly 1.5 acre bayfront property with over 100’ of water frontage

• Spectacular, unobstructed bay views and breathtaking sunsets

• Includes a private tennis court and plenty of room for additional outdoor amenities

• Designed by famed Philadelphia Architect Beryl Price, FAIA, offers 5 bedrooms and 4 baths

• Separate guest suite with private entrance, kitchenette, and living area

• Quiet, private location with mature landscaping, expansive grounds, and riparian grant

• Ideal setting for a custom compound or subdivision

• Rare blend of development potential, privacy, and views on this bayfront estate property

Meet The Team!

Sean Adams, an alumnus of Villanova University holding a B.S. in economics from the esteemed School of Commerce and Finance, boasts a lifelong tenure on Long Beach Island. With an intimate understanding of local dynamics shaping the real estate landscape, Sean effortlessly instills confidence in his clients with his approachable and well-informed demeanor. His expertise spans across luxury residential homes, commercial properties, and investment opportunities, as well as development projects. Sean’s accolades speak volumes, having earned numerous prestigious RE/MAX awards, including the coveted Lifetime Achievement award and induction into the RE/MAX Hall of Fame. Congratulations Sean on your 30-year milestone as a Real Estate Agent!

Melinda Russel, a proud Ocean County resident since 1967, began her real estate journey as a secretary in 1985 before obtaining her NJ real estate license in 1986. Specializing in the Jersey Shore, she brings decades of experience and expertise to her role as a full-time REALTOR® in Manahawkin, excelling in guiding clients through property transactions with intimate knowledge of the coastal region’s intricacies.

Chase Moran, the team’s Lead Marketing Coordinator and Graphic Designer, seamlessly merges communication with design to best benefit clients in the sale of their home or business. Chase has been a licensed real estate agent for the past two years, successfully assisting in millions of dollars’ worth of transactions. A lifelong Surf City resident, Chase’s deep connection to the island fuels her innovative approach. With a commitment to excellence, she crafts captivating marketing strategies and visually stunning graphics, empowering indivisuals to connect with us and achieve their goals in today’s dynamic marketplace.

Justine Henderson brings a unique blend of experiences and a deep connection to the Manahawkin/LBI area. With nearly a decade of experience as a yoga teacher and bartending on LBI, Justine is joining us from a previous agency and offers a diverse perspective to the industry. Growing up in this vibrant coastal community, she has an intimate understanding of its neighborhoods, events, and hidden gems. Justine is passionate about empowering people and helping them achieve their goals, providing personalized support whether you’re buying, selling, or investing in the local market.

Welcome to the Team Justine!

Meet Jackie and Sammi, our dynamic duo of social media content creators dedicated to keeping you connected with all things LBI. With their creative flair and passion for storytelling, they curate engaging content that captures the essence of Long Beach Island. From breathtaking scenery to local events and insider tips, Jacki and Sammi ensure that you stay informed and inspired, immersing you in the vibrant spirit of our beloved community.

“The

- Kathleen, Surf City

The Petti Real Estate Group: Connecting People, Places and Dreams

By Eileen Burke

A peaceful life on the coast - idyllic days filled with sun, sand and salty air - was a long-held dream for Denise Petti, whose heart’s desire for as long as she could remember was to make the ultimate leap from suburb to coast. She and her husband, Neal, had talked about what such a move might look like for many years. Theoretically, it seemed possible, but in reality?

The couple had been frequenting Long Beach Island for decades, from the time they were young children themselves, to getting married and having children of their own. Denise vividly recalls the first time stepping foot on LBI sand at the tender age of five.

“It was July, 1977,” she reminisces, “My father had been

offered an oceanfront rental for a week in a tiny raised bungalow on 9th Street in Surf City. That home is long gone now, but that week was filled with sun in my eyes and sand in my hair. Every memory I have of joy and happiness begins in my father’s arms on LBI. He would hold me as he jumped ocean waves and made my mother laugh the way he floated on his back with his feet sticking up in the air.”

Summer days spent on LBI just hit differently. The Causeway to the island, nicknamed by many as The Bridge of Sighs, seemed to Denise like a road to the end of the earth, to Heaven perhaps. As her father drove the family of six in their shiny maroon station wagon across the Causeway, she recalls her mother poking her head out of the

rolled-down passenger side window, shouting joyfully into the salty wind.

“Smell that seashore air!”

It was a sentiment that would lodge itself indelibly in Denise’s five senses forever. With her gaze set perpetually toward the coast and a soul drawn magnetically to the sea, Denise’s heart was like a compass, LBI its True North (albeit due East). As a wife and mother now herself, she has long savored the sunny memories made with her own little beach-loving family: Daughter, Michaelina and son, Gianni.

With every passing summer vacation, a heartfelt contentment spread across her husband and childrens’ faces. Cherishing the way they smiled and slept after a full day in sun, sand and surf, a vision began to form and cement in her mind: “These vacation experiences don’t have to be fleeting. This can be our way of life.”

“I would stay up at night and just scroll through houses for sale,” Denise recalls. “Michaelina, from the time she was maybe seven or eight years old, would curl up beside me and we’d look at all these pretty living rooms with fireplaces and beautiful decks and views, just playing make pretend. Granted, we knew we had a good life where we were, we just wanted the salt life.”

With two school-aged children and a tightly-knit extended family, a move to the beach certainly would be no small thing. There would be resistance and turbulence, to be sure. After toying with the idea, browsing listings online, and touring some open houses, Denise discovered that her husband and both kids were on board. That very day, Denise decided to enroll in a two-week real estate prelicensing course.

“I wanted first-hand knowledge of the coastal housing market,” she remembers. “I wanted to be the first to know what was being listed and sold and for how much. I wanted all the insight around what the market was bearing. I became a student of real estate, getting to know the neighborhoods inside and out; the character, personality, values and attraction of each unique town.”

What started out as mere interest and intrigue, served to propel Denise on an exhilarating trajectory she never anticipated.

“It’s so funny, looking back now,” Denise recalls. “I just wanted the ability to pull and analyze market statistics, to have access to inventory and see what was expired, pending and coming soon. It wasn’t long before I started booking agent previews and attending broker caravans and I realized this is a service I could offer to others.”

With that, Denise began to form relationships with buyers, sellers and fellow real estate agents, both on and off the island. She attended trainings, workshops, webinars and seminars, joined a regional brokerage and nationwide sales team, and explored the intricacies of launching a scalable business.

On December 7, 2018, she put a For Sale sign in the

ground at their home of fifteen years in Moorestown, NJ. It went under contract with a cash buyer in a matter of days and closed inside three weeks. One short year later a global pandemic would shut down the whole world. As it happened, real estate values skyrocketed. Destination coastal real estate became all the rage for investors and the Work From Home movement. Denise would go on to fortify her status as a trustworthy and knowledeable full-time real estate agent on and around LBI.

Meanwhile, at the age of seventeen, Michaelina was getting ready to graduate from Southern Regional High School, and chose to take the opportunity during quarantine to obtain her real estate license over spring break. With that, the Mother-Daughter team of The Petti Real Estate Group was born, connecting careers, hearts and souls with this favorite coastal paradise. This family business now serves as the South Jersey and Jersey Shore hub for a national referral network of agents, known as Next Move, delivering world-class client experiences with discretion and distinction.

Powered by Keller Williams Empower, The Petti Group is comprised of mother and daughter, as well as a vast nationwide network of specialized referral agents, who specialize in the sale of primary and secondary homes from city to country to coast, and everywhere in between.

Michaelina Petti specializes in transaction managment and administrative support, working closely with The Petti Group’s active pool of buyers, sellers and investors. The foundation of her work ethic is one of love, communication and care, something that is at the cornerstone of each and every transaction. She also supports the team with marketing and creative management. As a fine artist, her name appears on each and every curated piece gifted to the team’s buyers and sellers. When Michaelina isn’t busy providing world class real estate management, she enjoys writing, recording and performing original music with her father and brother all over Ocean County.

Denise Petti brings value to her clients and colleagues as a professional interior designer and stager. Her business, Briteside Interior Design allows her to serves her clientele of sellers, investors and fellow agents with stylish aesthetics that get homes sold. That, combined with clear, consistent communication, high level skill, savvy and cutting-edge digital tools, bring a competitive edge for obtaining top-tier access and exposure. Her drive, each and every day, is to serve friends, family and neighbors by leveraging her vast network of resources to connect people, places and dreams.

With a healthy appreciation for the beauty and inspiration the entire shoreline has to offer, The Petti Group brings a unique vitality and vigor to the client experience, helping to provide, procure and protect each and every client’s most treasured asset.

The Petti Real Estate Group may be reached by phone at 609.760.4334 or online at thepettigroup.com.

12000 LONG BEACH BOULEVARD

HAVEN BEACH - Established Automotive Business and Commercial Property. Sale includes automotive repair shop and towing company with nearly 40 years of service to the local community, along with a 1 Bedroom apartment! $1,899,000

5909 OCEAN BOULEVARD

BRANT BEACH - One off the Ocean Duplex. Each updated unit features 3 Bedrooms, 1½ Baths, front decks, vinyl plank ﬂooring, Ductless Split Systems, Laundry and more. Established rentals. Corner Lot. Ocean views!

$1,899,000

357 W 10TH STREET

SHIP BOTTOM - Bayblock - Spacious 4 Bedroom, 3½ Bath Home with an elevator and rooftop deck. Central A/C, Forced Hot Air Heat. 60x90 Lot located close to the Ship Bottom Boat Ramp and nearby Bay Beach!

$1,689,000

222 FOURTH STREET

BEACH HAVEN - Oceanside Duplex in the Heart of Beach Haven. Fantastic location! 2 Beds, 1 Bath per Floor with an interior staircase connecting units. Ductless Split Systems. Flexible use with this property

$1,375,000

2904 ATLANTIC AVENUE

BEACH HAVEN GARDENS - Classic LBI Beach House – Just Steps to the Beach! 4 Beds, 1 Full and 2 half baths along with a ﬂex room. Split systems provide heat and air conditioning. Legal Duplex. 40x90 lot. $1,750,000

16 W SUSAN AVENUE

HOLGATE - Duplex-Each unit features 2 Beds, 1 Bath, Forced hot air heat, central air and washer/dryers. Newer roof, interior staircase and close to the Beach and Bay. 50x83 Lot. $1,279,000

LITTLE EGG HARBOR

16 BEACH DR - $1,125,900

Stunning Shore 3-story Home on Osborn Island, Luxury Waterfront Living |4 Beds | 4 Baths | Built by Esteemed John Earl Builders. Welcome to your dream waterfront retreat — a beautifully appointed 4-bedroom, 4-bath located on the highly desirable Osborn Island, just two minutes from Great Bay. Built in 2006 by the renowned John Earl Builders, this exquisite home is on a deep lagoon with direct access to the bay, offering a perfect blend of timeless style, modern comfort, and year-round coastal living.

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128

UNDERCONTRACT

LITTLE EGG HARBOR TWP 14 STARBOARD CT - $559,900 Welcome to this beautiful 10-year-young ranch in the desirable Four Seasons at Harbor Bay 55+ community—on the market for the first time! Tucked away on a quiet cul-de-sac with peaceful wooded views, this upgraded three-bedroom, two-bath home with a full basement and 2-car garage offers the ideal layout for comfortable, stylish living.

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TUCKERTON

390 MARINE ST - $599,900

MOVE-IN READY NEW Construction in Desirable Tuckerton! Be the first to own this beautiful new 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home on pilings with an attached garage, (fits 2 cars!) nestled in the highly sought-after Tuckerton School District. Located on a quiet street with serene, treed views and unbuildable land across the way, this home offers comfort and even a touch of water view—all on a generously sized lot just under a quarter acre.

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LITTLE EGG HARBOR

118 E BINNACLE - $659,900

Welcome to your perfect waterfront retreat—beautifully raised, impeccably maintained, and offering breathtaking lagoon views just minutes from the open bay by boat or jet ski. This home was thoughtfully elevated in 2016, designed for effortless year-round living or memorable summer getaways filled with family and friends. Step inside to an open, sunny kitchen featuring elegant light granite countertops.

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