By: Don Hannig
Although the draw of outdoor recreation in the Pocono Mountains is undeniable, most of us feel that some weekends are just meant for shopping. And who can resist the temptation of a really fabulous bazaar and flea market experience? At the Pocono Bazaar & Flea Market, both young and old alike can enjoy meandering through a large variety of vendors featuring hand-crafted items, steals and deals, food, clothing, and much more.
The Pocono Bazaar is located 7 miles North on Route 209 from the Route 80 exit #309, in East Stroudsburg, PA. The flea market recently re-opened at a new location, and will feature both indoor and outdoor vendors, so you can shop away no matter what surprises the weather might bring! The Bazaar features:
- Antiques & Collectibles
- Books, Music, & Movies
- Electronics
- Food Vendors & Groceries
- Hardware, Tools, Key-making
- Jewelry & Watches
- Massage & Reflexology
- New Age
- Home & Garden
- Garage Sale Items
- Leather & Luggage
- Health & Beauty
- Toys & Variety Items
- Pet Supplies
- Arts & Crafts
- Bargain Items
This market is truly enormous – there are five buildings just to house the indoor vendors alone. There is something for everyone, no matter what your interests and hobbies might be. You can even schedule a massage while you visit! The market is open from 9 am – 5 pm every Saturday and Sunday, and on President’s Day, Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day, and Thanksgiving Friday (Black Friday).
Connect on Facebook or visit the Bazaar online for more details. Forget the crowded malls with long shopping lines and experience some of the greatest deals the Poconos has to offer. And add it to the long list of great reasons why living in the Pocono Mountains feels so good!
To find out more about the Pocono Mountains, please call us at 570-646-4646, email us at info@keswickpointe.com or visit our website at www.keswickpointe.com
By: Don Hannig
Based on a recent Wall Street Journal Survey, owning a home is now more affordable than at any time over the past fifteen years. Sagging prices and interest rates below the 4 percent range on a 30-year fixed mortgage are the largest drivers behind this record trend of housing affordability. But down markets, rising inflation, and the perception of an uncertain economic future in this country has left many potential homebuyers a bit uneasy about taking the ultimate plunge.
So where do YOU weigh in on new home ownership – are you still perhaps a bit hesitant? Ironically, the reluctance for many people to buy a home in this economic climate is what makes it a relatively good time to purchase. Those low mortgage interest rates alone may sway many qualified borrowers to consider buying a home – and banks are avidly looking for sound candidates. Couple these fantastic rates with low prices from dropping values and foreclosures, and you have yourself a buyer’s market!
Four Factors Why It’s a Poconos Buyers Market NOW
1. Mortgage rates. Current interest rates alone make buying a quality home a sound financial decision, as some rates are at a near 60-year low. From an investment standpoint – if you had to make a choice between buying your first home OR investing in the stock market, which option do you feel would be the better bet? In a recent CNBC news interview with Warren Buffet, when posed with the very same question, the businessman/tycoon said he would buy the home. “If I knew where I wanted to live the next five or ten years, I would buy a home (with that money) and I would finance it with a 30-year mortgage. It’s a terrific deal,” said Buffet emphatically.
2. Rental Prices Are Up. According to a rental index by Zillow, an online home and real estate marketplace, median rents rose 3 percent nationally from January 2011 to January 2012. At the same time, the number of renters has increased due to the economic and employment challenges of the past several years. People are simply scared to buy, or may not have the credit or adequate down payment to do so.
3. Freedom of Choice. If you just take a short drive, the bevy of “for sale” signs is nearly shocking. Home buyers have the ultimate luxury of choosing the type of home they wish to buy, in the community they are most happy with, at a price they can afford. New construction companies really WANT your business, and are willing to prove it through quality service and construction.
4. The Pocono Mountain Region Rocks. It’s way more than just a place to live. Over the long haul, homeownership in the Pocono Mountain regions offers numerous advantages that simply can’t be attained through renting. From putting down roots in a community and creating memories, to the ability to make whatever home improvement choices you’d like, homeownership certainly has its benefits. You can check out the Best Reasons To Live In the Pocono Mountains blog series for hundreds of reasons why the area is a fantastic place to settle for the long haul.
Do remember that all these economic factors will not automatically mean that home ownership is the right thing for you personally. If you are going to be in the area for at least 5 years and can afford all the costs of home ownership, including insurances and real estate taxes, then now is a very good time for you to buy. If your situation is more uncertain or you don’t want all the responsibilities of long-term ownership, renting still may be the right option for you.
Also know that a down market won’t last forever. Real estate broker Don Ricedorff believes that the home market is beginning to improve with the growing influence of the “millennial” generation, also known as “Generation Y.” Generation Y is considered those between the ages of 18 and 35 and it currently makes up 34 percent of the workforce. It is projected that in five years, “millennials” will make up 65 percent of the U.S. workforce, according to 2010 U.S. Census.
“They will all need a primary home to live in,” Ricedorff said. “This is the best time to lock in a low rate and a low cost of living. Rents are likely to only increase.”
So what does this information mean to you and your family? Is it YOUR time to buy?
To find out more about the benefits of energy efficiency and green building please call Keswick Point, the region’s newest PRD, at 570-646-4646, email us at info@keswickpointe.com or visit our website at keswickpointe.com.
By: Don Hannig
The Pocono Mountains are comprised of 24,000 miles of scenic terrain from rugged wilderness to rolling hills and farmland. The true marvel is that nearly all of it is easily accessed through State Forest and Game Lands roads. If you’ve recently moved to the region, or are considering doing so, you will have the bounty of the outdoors as your own backyard playground! From scenic vistas to forested glens of soft fragrant fern, the breathtaking beauty of mountain life abounds. Grab a camera, pack your lunch, and make a day out of your venture – it’s all just minutes away from your door. Here is a Top Five Pick of the area’s best hiking and biking spots for you to visit.
1. McDade Trail Bike Trip. If you’d like to start off with an adventure for all endurance levels and abilities, and even relax a bit along the way, this trip is for you. With 5+ miles of gradual trail available to both hikers and bikers, you can stop to picnic, swim, or even hit up a vending machine. Detailed trail maps and Bed and Breakfast spots are accessible as well. Located at the Delaware Water Gap State Park.
2. Lehigh Gorge State Park. This gorgeous rail-to-trail contains 25 self-guided miles of bliss along the wild & scenic designated Lehigh River. With the towering gorge walls rising above the trail, the view cannot be beat. Basically a flat ride/hike, the added benefit to this destination is no interference from cars. You can even visit the beautifully quaint town of Jim Thorpe when your hike is completed; it is a mere stone’s throw away.
3. Appalachian National Scenic Trail. If you live in the Poconos, you must hit a section of this historic trail system. Since the 1920’s hikers of all backgrounds have aspired to complete the trek from Georgia to Maine, and an entire segment within the lower range of the Pocono Mountains is easily accessible. Sections of this trail can be a little strenuous for hikers, but the sense of accomplishment is surely worth the effort. Access at the Delaware Water Gap.
4. Wolf Swamp Trail System. If you enjoy water, hit the trails at Wolf Swamp and view the glistening lakes and flowing streams that surround the area. During the last ice age massive glacial sheets formed the stunning topography of the region, leaving behind a landscape sculpted by water. If you are so inclined, you can hit the outlets afterward! Tannersville, PA.
5. Hickory Run State Park. One of the most unique sites in the Pocono Mountains is the Boulder Field at Hickory Run. Revered in Native American history as a place of sacred import, you will realize the geologic significance and stunning views after your trek to the edge of the boulder fields. Miles of rolling wooded trails are available within the park, as well as swimming and camping. Visiting this amazing National Natural Landmark is a must-do! Route 534 off I-80.
The Pocono Mountains will provide you with an endless supply of outdoor fun, so make it your goal to visit each and every park or trail system in the region. Ease your stress load and take a day to explore what the pristine forests, lakes, and rivers have to offer. You only need to pick the where and when! The beauty of nature is guaranteed.
To find out more about the Pocono Mountains, please call us at 570-646-4646, email us at info@keswickpointe.com or visit our website at www.keswickpointe.com
By: Don Hannig
Although most of us would enjoy the distinction of saving the planet from the negative effects of unsustainable energy consumption, no one I know is actually a super (green) hero. There are many home builders who incorporate stunningly green design elements into their creations, but you don’t necessarily need to be architecturally gifted in order to put some eco-friendliness into your own home and into your daily life. And guess what – you can even reap the benefits NOW – and not just in future generations!
Green building may have begun with the design and the structural foundation of your new home, but has now grown to encompass much, much more. The benefits are numerous: it can increase your personal comfort, your family’s health and well-being, your energy costs, your available sunlight, and the cleanliness of the air you breathe. Right here, right now. So check out these 6 ways you may not have realized could help you with your superhero’s quest.
1. Programmable Thermostats. Energy Star estimates that homeowners can save about $180 a year by properly setting their programmable thermostats and maintaining those settings. The pre-programmed settings that come with these thermostats are intended to deliver savings without sacrificing comfort. The premise is to establish a program that automatically reduces heating and cooling in your home when you don’t need as much. Do you know how to properly install your thermostat system?
2. Steam Cleaners. Did you know that most commercial cleaning products contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs)? These compounds are released in the form of gas which contains chemicals that can be harmful to your health, especially when used indoors in a confined area without sufficient ventilation. Steam cleaners provide a sanitary and environmentally friendly alternative to chemicals – all you need is clean tap water, which releases no harmful VOCs into your home environment – and you save money on the chemicals.
3. Rechargeable Batteries. Do yourself a green favor and switch your entire home to rechargeable batteries. It’s so easy to grab a pack of energizers while you are at the hardware store, but it is truly soooo wasteful. Rechargeable batteries have come down so much in price that it no longer makes sense to ignore the issue, and you can afford to have a revolving supply available whenever they are needed.
4. Electricity Monitors. Do your own detective work and find out just where you are draining power – and your pocketbook. This can help save you tons of money by showing you exactly where energy is being wasted the most in your home, and which appliances are most in need of replacement with energy efficient models. These monitors are inexpensive and include watts, the cost of operation, and the amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions.
5. Green Gardening. Bet you didn’t think of the going green on outside of your home, huh? Green gardening includes choosing native and drought-resistant plant species that require less water and fertilizer. You could also conserve 40 gallons a day in dry periods by upgrading your sprinkler system to a “smart” controller that’s climate sensitive and will adjust for hotter temperatures and switch itself off when it rains. Remember to water before 8 a.m. to save on all the water that is lost to evaporation when it’s hot and sunny!
6. Bamboo Yourself. A heightened consumer environmental awareness has given sales of bamboo clothing, flooring, building materials, and other items a huge boost. Bamboo grows rapidly – sometimes 3 to 4 feet per day without fertilizer or pesticide – and it releases some 35 percent more oxygen into the air than a similar-sized stand of trees. Bamboo matures (and can be replanted) within seven years compared to 30-50 years for hardwood. Bamboo is also making waves in the clothing industry as an eco-chic and functional new fabric, and you can find bamboo bedding, towels and rugs.
Above and beyond selecting a eco-responsible residential developer to build your new home, there are quite a few things a conscientious family can do to promote green living and energy efficiency– and save themselves some cash in the process.
Consumer demand for environmentally responsible products and materials has brought a plethora of options for the homeowner to choose from, and they will not even break the bank. There is just no reason not to live green, and it sets a wonderful example for our children as well. So put on your superhero cape (the green one) and adopt a new way of thinking in your life and your home – today!
To find out more about the benefits of energy efficiency and green building please call Keswick Point, the region’s newest PRD, at 570-646-4646, email us at info@keswickpointe.com or visit our website at keswickpointe.com.
By: Don Hannig
Are you irresistibly drawn to snow-topped mountains, crisply groomed trails, short lift wait-times, and the whisper of skis through the midst of a winter wonderland? Me too! And guess what…. The best kept secret of the northeast is the winter ski haven nestled within our very own Pocono Mountain Region. So why spend thousands of dollars on unnecessary airfare when a skier’s paradise is right at your own backdoor?
Whether your focus is family entertainment or action-packed adventure, the Pocono Mountains offers an array of skiing destinations – many of which offer snow-boarding, tubing, terrain parks, and cross country skiing as well. Here’s a list of our top-five picks for you to visit this winter!
1. Jack Frost Big Boulder. Located in Blakeslee, this dual mountain package deal has something for everyone. Big Boulder Mountain is a wonderful family destination while Jack Frost has gained a reputation for thrill-seekers looking for a challenge.
2. Camelback Mountain. Located in Tannersville, Camelback Mountain exists purely for enjoying winter to its fullest. It’s snow-making prowess and legendary service has made Camelback a choice family destination for over 50 years.
3. Blue Mountain Ski Area. Located in the southern Poconos only a short drive from Allentown, Blue Mountain Ski Area is fast developing a reputation as a cutting edge snow park. Featuring six-passenger high-speed lifts and the highest vertical in Pennsylvania, Blue Mtn. has got just what you need in ultimate ski entertainment!
4. Shawnee Mountain. Located in historic Shawnee on the Delaware, this ski destination offers 23 trails and an array of excellent children’s programs and beginner’s packages, not to mention the great terrain for more advanced skiers. Shawnee is known for service and hospitality.
5. Ski Big Bear. Located at Masthope Mountain, Ski Big Bear offers a fantastic combination of events, festivals and competitions throughout the season, and features a cross-country ski map for a quieter experience in the heart of the Pocono Mountains.
So if chilly thrills and winter wonders are your cup of tea – you’re living in the right place! And if you’re out of town, why don’t you come visit the Pocono Mountains this winter – we’re thinking you might be back to stay!
To find out more about the Pocono Mountains, please call us at 570-646-4646, email us at info@keswickpointe.com or visit our website at www.keswickpointe.com
By: Don Hannig
“If you don’t know where you are, you don’t know who you are. Without a sense of place, what will fill the void?” ~ Wendell Berry, Bioregionalist
A very basic and essential human trait is the need to belong. We are genetically wired to live in family units, as part of a larger group – in a sense, a community. We take pleasure in these distinctive recognizable locations we reside in, and attach our warm feelings to them – the very definition of a sense of place.
A strong sense of place supports a feeling of personal identity. By being a piece of a whole community, our own individuality is enhanced. We are unique and individual through belonging to a larger unit! The challenge that faces forward-thinking residential planners and builders of today lies with the creation of a sense of place within a new community, in an age where sprawl and the disintegration of our towns and cities is the norm.
Implications For Design & Planning
“Placeless” landscapes are those that have no special relationships or history with the area they are located within. Strip malls, gas stations, convenience stores, and giant housing complexes are prime examples of places without meaning. So what tools can residential developers use to create a sense of place within a community?
• Utilize Physical Setting. This includes incorporating natural elements and original topographies into the design plan, as well as providing access to nature immediately adjacent to a developed area.
• Utilize Recreational Grounds. Shared recreational grounds, such as playground areas, open spaces, and picnic pavilions can provide a shared sense of place and community belonging.
• Utilize Neighborhood Covenants. Joint agreements between members of a community can go a long way to strengthen ties and a sense of pride in a locality, as well as protect the community against devaluation through neglect or misuse.
• Utilize An Enhanced Entrance. An architecturally designed entrance will enhance sense of place and provide a communal visual point and a feeling of coming home.
Implications For Individual Lifestyle
The development of a sense of place provides more than community pride; it can make a significant impact on an individual’s lifestyle and physical/mental well-being. It can provide:
• Feeling of Attachment and Belonging. This reduces anxiety and stress in the individual’s daily life by giving comfort and a sense of being part of a larger unit.
• Desire To Protect the Community. This feeling of responsibility is critical in providing a safe haven for future generations; we all strive to build a sense of place within a community for our children.
• Enhanced Safety. The freedom for our children to roam in a safe environment, in the manner that many of the elders in the community used to, is a huge plus.
• Access To The Environment. Access to the outdoors is critical in the stimulation of a child’s creativity and sensitivity to nature, as well as helping to build each child’s sense of place.
Not only does an enhanced sense of place provide benefits to the community and the individuals within, it also helps to preserve the past history of an area. The Pocono Mountains region is ripe with a unique cultural heritage, and its own sense of place helps to promote cultural awareness and strong kinship ties among its inhabitants.
In an environment as rich in cultural and environmental diversity as The Pocono Mountains, our residents convey the need for cutting-edge community design and residential planning through responsible land-use decisions. Does your residential community fit the bill?
To find out more about the benefits of energy efficiency and green building please call Keswick Point, the region’s newest PRD, at 570-646-4646, email us at info@keswickpointe.com or visit our website at keswickpointe.com.
By: Don Hannig
The breathtaking vistas of the Pocono Mountains were created some 12,000 – 15,000 years ago with the advance and eventual retreat of the Wisconsin glacier. The massive glacier molded the landscape into what it remains today – sprawling mountains interspersed with natural wonders such as lakes, waterfalls, boulder fields, bogs, and thousands of acres of forested lands.
Such geologic beauty has provided the backdrop for some very unique cultural history – beginning with the Native Americans who populated the Pocono Mountain Region – to who we are today…. a rich blending of many cultures and backgrounds!
Early Peoples
Long before Europeans arrived, the Poconos were densely populated with many different Native American peoples, including the Delaware, Minisink, Lenni Lenape, Iroquois, Shawnee, and Paupack Indians. The Delaware River basin was an area ripe with wildlife and provided a rich cultural variety even among the native peoples of long ago. The Dutch were the first European settlers, establishing settlements in 1659 near the famous Delaware Water Gap an impressive gorge with 1200 foot cliffs on either side of the great river.
Advancing Industry
Peoples of eastern European descent, namely the German and English, took up a living in our region in the late 1700s, after the Walking Purchase and a period of bloody battles between the natives and the whites of the region – skirmishes over land ownership. A booming industrial period ensued, as the Poconos were rich with anthracite coal and other natural resources. The canal system and a bustling railway economy allowed the lumber industry to prosper. Farming was an integral part of the area’s economy as well.
Romantic Allure
In the early 1900’s, the Pocono Mountain Region became better known for what it is today – a destination for escape, relaxation, and enjoyment of the bounty of nature. Hotels sprang up as wealthy new tourists were drawn like flies to beauty of the area. In the 1960’s the Poconos became known as a honeymoon haven nationwide– further expanding its growing economy of tourism.
Home Today
Today, the Pocono Mountains provide a home to those of us who recognize the region for what it is – the jewel of eastern Pennsylvania. We can enjoy the best of all worlds here – an area culturally rich in lore and history, closeness to the major cities of the Northeast, and the richest beauty nature can provide!
Check Out These Great Destinations!
• Eckley Miner’s Village
• Hickory Run Boulder Field
• Delaware Water Gap
• Jim Thorpe
• Tannersville Cranberry Bog
To find out more about the Pocono Mountains, please call us at 570-646-4646, email us at info@keswickpointe.com or visit our website at www.keswickpointe.com
By: Don Hannig
For over 200 years, Americans have been conquering Nature. We have held the belief that growth, development, sprawl, and business take precedence over all else – it’s been the American way. Thankfully, times are changing. We are noticing the decline of natural habits, open spaces, and the disappearance of the supply of our natural resources. We are recognizing the need for advance in building design and construction technique, in order to protect the natural environment. Many home builders are stepping up to meet the need for conservation and accountability head on! So how do you locate the best of the bunch?
Thinking Green?
Like many of us, if you are looking to reduce your carbon footprint – as well as save on monthly utility costs, selectivity when choosing a new home builder is quite important. The good news is, many builders are constructing homes that are healthier for the environment and more cost-effective for homeowners. As the consumer demand for environmentally friendly homes increases, building greener homes is becoming a priority for many residential builders. Green building is here to stay!
Innovation in Design
Natural amenities, such as woodlands, hedge-rows, slopes, rock outcroppings, and streams or ponds, cost nothing in their pure state and provide lovely views for homeowners and families. Green belts and other open spaces, if designed for physical and visual access, can enhance property values of nearby developable lands, as well as your own home’s resale worth. Forward thinking in design is the hallmark of a great residential builder – here are some things you should look for during your selection process.
• Water Conservation Techniques. This is more than just the installation of low-flush toilets – an innovative builder can utilize such state of the art features as bio-swales and permeable paving to reduce stormwater runoff and direct it into natural areas where it can be released back into the natural watershed. Low-water landscaping and energy efficient irrigation systems are also a plus.
• Open Space and Natural Habitat Preservation. Look for thoughtful design that is integrated throughout the entire development. An environmentally conservative approach – such as using natural features like paths, wild areas, and native vegetation that increases habitat value for wildlife – is an excellent indicator that your builder is thinking green.
• Integration into Natural Surroundings. Has the builder chosen a site that fits into the larger scheme of its surrounding environment? For example, a community located in the heart of the Pocono Mountains should fit seamlessly into the pristine forested land by incorporating wooded areas, paths, and other natural features, and provide nearby access to hiking trails and other environmental opportunities.
Accountability in Construction
It is estimated that building an average 2,000 square foot home will produce approximately 7,000 pounds of waste if careful management is not utilized. That is nearly 4 tons of debris, not to mention the wasted dollars in material costs! Conventional building construction consumes large quantities of wood, water, metals, fossil fuels and other natural resources – so how do you know that your residential developer is carefully managing the construction process, and using these resources wisely? Here’s what to look for.
• Use of Durable Products in Building. An example would be high quality roofing materials with warrantees of 40 to 50 years, or decking materials made of recycled plastic mixed with wood waste fibers that can last up to five times longer than wood decking, never needing to be treated or painted.
• Use of Advanced Framing Techniques. There are many well established home building practices that involve the use of FSC-Certified wood, engineered lumber, and advanced framing techniques that can substantially reduce lumber requirements without compromising structural integrity, thus helping to conserve natural resources.
• Use of Recycled Materials When Applicable. A developer well-versed in green practice will utilize recycled materials whenever possible. An example would be the use of high-volume recycled flyash in concrete (min. 25%) or ceramic or glass tiles that contain recycled or reclaimed materials in the construction process.
• Energy Efficiency Ratings. The incorporation of energy efficient appliances and lighting systems is the hallmark of a forward thinking home builder. Homes should be independently Energy Star Certified for energy efficiency. The National Association of Home Builders has a rating system in place to certify homes according to the National Green Building Standard requirements. Ask your builder about their rating!
A Future of Green Building
Increasingly, residential developers and environmental professionals, along with local and state government officials, are recognizing the benefits of greater integration between man-made environments and nature. When cutting edge building design meets with the smart-growth practice of accountability during the construction phase, we have a win-win situation for homebuyers and the environment alike!
“To waste, to destroy our natural resources, to skin and exhaust the land instead of using it so as to increase its usefulness, will result in undermining in the days of our children the very prosperity which we ought by right to hand down to them amplified and developed.” ~Theodore Roosevelt, seventh annual message, 3 December 1907
To find out more about the benefits of energy efficiency and green building please call Keswick Point, the region’s newest PRD, at 570-646-4646, email us at info@keswickpointe.com or visit our website at keswickpointe.com.
By: Don Hannig
In today’s shaky economy, “you’ve got to tighten up the belt wherever you can” is a popular mantra. Yet we’ve all felt the sting when something we thought was a great deal at the time turns out to be a bad investment a bit down the road. So let’s face it – cost-cutting when building homes is just a risky game. Envision your family’s dwelling place as an investment that needs, foremost, to endure for the long haul.
Dreams Gone Wrong
The average home builder’s nightmare begins when trying to evaluate the quality of construction while maintaining a tight or shrinking budget. The “bad dream” sensation swells with the realization that the home is constructed from thousands of pieces of materials – all items that can warp, contract, crack or tear. The worries mount because inside, everyone knows that a skilled craftsman may be able to make something cheap look good to the buyer – but will it stand the fabled test of time? Likely not.
The Keswick Pointe Solution
At Keswick Pointe, you are not the average home builder! Every one of our homes is constructed with consistent quality materials that will endure for a lifetime. We only utilize the best names in workmanship because we are fully invested in our clients’ long-term satisfaction. Here are some of our favorite tried-and-true manufacturers that you can count on, compliments of us, nightmare-free!
Anderson Low-E Windows.
Why Anderson? The Low-E glass works like sunblock to protect your home and furniture from ultraviolet light. They utilize natural wood to create beauty that is timeless and enduring – with a tough protective shell that will never need repainting. The Anderson Company is renowned for climate control and the potential of hearty savings on heating and cooling costs. And it is well known that Anderson Windows will add to the resale value of your home.
Trane Heating & Cooling Systems.
Consistent comfort a must have? That’s why we go with Trane from start to finish. A Trane matched HVAC system combines superior components that are made to work seamlessly together. This means the least in repair costs and the most in energy efficiency. The legendary Trane name can bring your family enhanced air quality – and a healthier lifestyle as a result.
Kohler Fixtures.
What says style, quality, and craftsmanship more than the Kohler name? Kohler fixtures consistently provide distinctive style, an array of choices, and uncompromising performance. These fixtures are utilized in every Keswick home, including a sleek Kohler whirlpool tub in your master bathroom. Enjoy the experience of powerful, directed massage jets as you unwind and revitalize after a hard day’s work.
CertainTeed Exterior Building Products.
Concerned about the durability of your new home’s exterior components? You absolutely should be! But worry not, because CertainTeed roofing and siding materials are world-renowned for superior quality and innovation in their building solutions. They come with a Lifetime warranty. And CertainTeed roofing products meet National Green Building Standards for environmental responsibility.
Trex Decking. Want the finest in Outdoor Living? Oh yeah! Trex is the industry leader in wood-alternative decking – with no splinters, no rot, no painting, and no fuss. It’s simply the best… and did you know that Trex materials are made from a unique combination of reclaimed wood and plastic? It’s environmentally friendly, manufactured by an outstanding “green” company!
Other outstanding names utilized in our homes’ construction include: Glen Gary Brick, Jeld Wen doors, Shaw T & G hardwood, Dal-Tile ceramic floors, and many more. All these manufacturers have this in common: superior quality and enduring craftsmanship. That’s why we have selected them for each of our homes, every time. No worries, no stress, no nightmares. Just enjoy the best in a new Keswick Pointe home!
To find out more about the benefits of energy efficiency and green building please call Keswick Point, the region’s newest PRD, at 570-646-4646, email us at info@keswickpointe.com or visit our website at keswickpointe.com.
By: Don Hannig
You’ve chosen to live in the Pocono Mountains for some very good reasons. We are willing to wager the spectacular bounty of autumn is on top of the list! Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast or a food and wine connoisseur, there is always something amazing to do in the Poconos. Why stay home when the world is at your fingertips? Take your friends, take your family, or wander the pristine trails in solitude, but check out our selections for a fabulous fall itinerary!
View the Fall Foliage. You are living smack-dab in the middle of the finest palette the season of autumn can produce. The quaint little Victorian town of Jim Thorpe is renowned for its Fall Foliage Festival – and it happens every weekend in October! Visit for a leisurely day of strolling streets filled with dozens of artists, craftsman, musicians, and chefs. Take a ride on the Lehigh Gorge Railway to view the turning leaves while you are there – you won’t believe your eyes!
Check Out a Harvest Festival. Whatever your neck of the Poconos, there is bound to be a harvest festival nearby – agriculture is a huge part of Pocono Mountain culture! Quiet Valley Living Historical Museum offers a lovely fall festival each year. View agricultural life as it used to be – the entire PA German farm is in period and operates exactly how it did centuries ago. Shawnee Mountain offers an annual Autumn Timber Festival in October – definitely worth checking out!
Take the Kids for Pumpkins. This is a tradition for many families, but in the Poconos, you get to do it up big time! Visit the Great Pocono Pumpkin Festival at Country Junction, the world’s biggest country general store. If you don’t have children, take a date and treat the kid inside you! The entire month of October is dedicated to fun rides, great food, scary attractions, animal petting zoos, and much, much more. Did I mention pumpkins galore?
Go Get Scared! Who can resist the draw of Halloween? Visit the Old Jail Museum in Jim Thorpe for a historically scary tour, or go to downtown Saylorsburg to be scared witless at the Hotel of Horror. If you like something a bit tamer, opt for a haunted hayride or an old-fashioned treat or treat walk in the town of your choice!
Whatever your pleasure, autumn in the Pocono Mountains should not be missed. The tastes, sights, sounds, and scents are truly spectacular. Mark your calendar now, so you don’t miss a thing!
To find out more about the Pocono Mountains, please call us at 570-646-4646, email us at info@keswickpointe.com or visit our website at www.keswickpointe.com
