What to Watch Right Now

1. PMMS Update — 30-Year Fixed at 6.65% (August 20 Reading)

Freddie Mac's Primary Mortgage Market Survey released yesterday, Thursday August 20, showed the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaging 6.65%, down 2 basis points from 6.67% the prior week. The 15-year fixed stands at 5.88-5.95% depending on the lender. Mortgage News Daily data shows the 30-year fixed rate at approximately 6.70% on August 20. Bankrate New Jersey purchase rates remain in the 6.60-6.82% range. The pattern continues: rates have settled in a narrow band in the mid-to-upper sixes with a slight softening this week. The next PMMS reading comes Thursday August 27 as we head into the Labor Day holiday period. For Bergen and Hudson County buyers, locking now locks in certainty at a slightly better rate than last week. For sellers, this rate environment keeps the buyer pool selective, making accurate first-day pricing non-negotiable.

2. This Weekend's Events: August 21-23

The late-summer calendar peaks this weekend with three major events across both counties. Saturday August 22: Summer BlockFest in Hoboken (4th annual hip-hop festival at 770 Jackson Street, 12-8 p.m., rain date August 29) — live music, food trucks, artisanal vendors, and community activities. Also Saturday: the Jersey City Pride Festival centered around the Newark Avenue Pedestrian Plaza — one of the largest Pride celebrations in the Northeast, featuring a main stage, DJs, drag performances, vendor village, and family-friendly programming from late morning through evening. Also Saturday: Outdoor Mega Workout at Mackay Park in Englewood (10:30 a.m., free) — a community fitness event open to all levels. Sunday August 23: Fort Lee Farmers Market (8 a.m.-2 p.m.) with peak-season Jersey tomatoes, corn, peaches, and stone fruit. Farmers markets in Ridgewood (Sundays) and Cliffside Park (Sundays) are also running. Hoboken Concerts in the Park series continues at Pier A Park. All free and open to the community.

3. Upcoming This Week: Events August 24-30

The calendar stays full through the end of August. Tuesday August 25: Fort Lee Summer Concert Series wraps for the season with New Power Soul at the Jack Alter Community Center (7:30 p.m., free) — the finale of a beloved summer tradition. Thursday August 27: Dave Matthews Band at the Bergen Performing Arts Center in Englewood (5 p.m.) — a major concert at one of Bergen County's premier venues. August 28-30: The Saborland Food Festival at American Dream in East Rutherford — a weekend of food, music, and culture featuring vendors from across the region. Friday August 28: Will Wood and the Tapeworms at Debonair Music Hall in Teaneck (7 p.m.). Saturday August 29: World Flavor Fest at Harborside Atrium in Jersey City — a celebration of global cuisine, live music, and cultural performances along the waterfront. Fort Lee Farmers Market runs every Sunday 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Farmers markets in Englewood (Fridays), Teaneck (Thursdays), Ridgewood (Sundays), and Jersey City (Mondays & Thursdays) are all in full swing.

4. Bergen County Market — Late August Snapshot

The Greater Bergen REALTORS June 2026 report remains the latest official data, showing single-family median sale prices around $822,000 (up 9.8% year-over-year) with 584 closed sales (up 13.0%). Zillow's broader measure shows Bergen County's median home value at approximately $946,000 as of June, up 7.3% year-over-year. Inventory stands at 2,103 active listings as of August 1 — the highest in several years, giving buyers more selection than at any point in the last two years. Months-of-supply at 1.4-1.7 months remains firmly in seller's market territory. Days on market averages 28 days for sold properties, with well-priced homes in the $500K-$900K range still drawing the strongest buyer interest. New listings rose 8.3% year-over-year. The July data from NJ REALTORS should post soon and I will update here when it does. With rates dipping slightly to 6.65%, buyer sentiment may improve heading into the fall season.

5. Events on the Horizon: September Preview

Looking ahead into September, the community calendar remains packed. September 4-7: The 111th Annual St. Joseph's Festival in Lodi — one of Bergen County's longest-running Italian feasts with live music, food, games, and rides over Labor Day weekend. September 8: Ladies' Health Event at the Richard Rodda Center in Teaneck (7-8 p.m.). September 10-13: The 100th Annual Hoboken Italian Festival on Sinatra Drive along the waterfront — a centennial celebration not to be missed, with parades, live music, and world-class Italian cuisine. September 11-13: St. Anne's Parish Carnival and Food Fair in Fair Lawn. September 12: Fort Lee Artisan Market returns. September 12: Hillsdale Fall Festival with local artisans, live music, and seasonal activities. September 12: Hudson West Folk Fest in Jersey City with live folk and acoustic performances. September 14-27: Fort Lee Restaurant Week — two weeks of special menus at the borough's best restaurants. September 18-20: Bergen County Fall Harvest Festival at Overpeck County Park in Ridgefield Park with 4-H displays, craft fair, carnival rides, and seasonal food. September 19: All About Downtown Street Fair in Jersey City (12-8 p.m., Newark Avenue between Grove and Coles Streets, 15th annual edition). September 19: Kenny G at bergenPAC in Englewood. September 26: Leonia Oktoberfest at Wood Park (1-9 p.m.) with music, food, and Bavarian tradition. September 26: River City Fair in Hoboken on Sinatra Drive (11 a.m.-5 p.m.).

6. Florida Amendment 3 — Still No Ruling, Now Over Three Weeks After Hearing

It has now been over three weeks since the July 29 hearing before Judge Angela Dempsey in Leon County Circuit Court, and no ruling has been issued yet. Three consolidated lawsuits were argued with both sides requesting summary judgment. State economists project $5 billion in local revenue losses by 2027 and $10.75 billion by 2031 if Amendment 3 passes. The potential expansion of the homestead exemption to $250,000 remains the single most significant financial incentive on the table for NJ homeowners considering a Florida move. The January 1, 2027 residency deadline for full benefit eligibility keeps drawing closer with each passing week. The moment a decision comes down, I will post an update here.

1. Weekend Wrap-Up — Jersey Tenors at Fort Lee, Movies Under the Stars Tonight, Busy Weekend Ahead

The Fort Lee Summer Concert Series continued Tuesday night with the Jersey Tenors at the Jack Alter Community Center — a crowd-pleasing blend of opera and rock classics that drew a strong turnout. Tonight, Wednesday August 19, Movies Under the Stars returns to Hoboken at 7:30 p.m. along the waterfront, with a free family-friendly film screening. The Fort Lee Women's Networking event also happens Wednesday, hosted by the Chamber of Commerce. This Saturday August 22 is shaping up to be one of the busiest days of the summer: the Summer BlockFest in Hoboken (4th annual hip-hop festival at 770 Jackson Street, rain date August 29), the Jersey City Pride Festival centered around the Newark Avenue Pedestrian Plaza — one of the largest Pride celebrations in the Northeast — and the Outdoor Mega Workout at Mackay Park in Englewood at 10:30 a.m. All free and open to the community. Farmers markets across both counties remain at peak season with Jersey tomatoes, corn, peaches, and stone fruit at their absolute best right now.

2. This Week's Events: August 19-25

The late-summer calendar keeps delivering. Tonight, Wednesday August 19: Movies Under the Stars in Hoboken at 7:30 p.m. along the waterfront. Saturday August 22: Summer BlockFest in Hoboken (4th annual hip-hop festival at 770 Jackson Street, rain date August 29), Jersey City Pride Festival centered around the Newark Avenue Pedestrian Plaza, and Outdoor Mega Workout at Mackay Park in Englewood (10:30 a.m., free). Tuesday August 25: Fort Lee Summer Concert Series wraps for the season with New Power Soul at the Jack Alter Community Center (7:30 p.m., free). Thursday August 27: Dave Matthews Band at the Bergen Performing Arts Center in Englewood. August 28-30: The Saborland Food Festival at American Dream in East Rutherford — a weekend of food, music, and culture. August 28: Will Wood and the Tapeworms at Debonair Music Hall in Teaneck (7 p.m.). Fort Lee Farmers Market runs every Sunday 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Hoboken Concerts in the Park series continues at Pier A Park. Farmers markets in Englewood (Fridays), Teaneck (Thursdays), Ridgewood (Sundays), and Jersey City (Mondays & Thursdays) are all in full swing.

3. Freddie Mac PMMS — 30-Year Fixed at 6.67% (August 13 Reading Confirmed)

Freddie Mac's Primary Mortgage Market Survey released Thursday August 13 showed the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaging 6.67%, down slightly from 6.69% the prior week. The 15-year fixed stands at 5.90-5.98% depending on the lender. Mortgage News Daily data shows the 30-year fixed rate at approximately 6.74% on August 13. Bankrate New Jersey purchase rates remain in the 6.62-6.84% range. The pattern is clear: rates have settled in a narrow band in the mid-to-upper sixes with no conviction to break meaningfully lower. The next PMMS reading comes Thursday August 20 — tomorrow. For Bergen and Hudson County buyers, locking now locks in certainty — floating for a potential dip carries real risk as the fall season approaches and economic data remains mixed. For sellers, this rate environment keeps the buyer pool selective, making accurate first-day pricing and strong curb appeal non-negotiable.

4. Bergen County Market — Mid-August Snapshot

The Greater Bergen REALTORS June 2026 report remains the latest official data, showing single-family median sale prices around $822,000 (up 9.8% year-over-year) with 584 closed sales (up 13.0%). Zillow's broader measure shows Bergen County's median home value at approximately $946,000 as of June, up 7.3% year-over-year. Inventory stands at 2,103 active listings as of August 1 — the highest in several years. Months-of-supply at 1.4-1.7 months remains firmly in seller's market territory. Days on market averages 28 days for sold properties, with well-priced homes in the $500K-$900K range still drawing the strongest buyer interest. New listings rose 8.3% year-over-year, meaning more options exist now for buyers than at any point in the last two years — though bidding wars remain common for homes priced correctly in desirable neighborhoods. The July data from NJ REALTORS should post in the coming weeks and I will update here when it does.

5. Events on the Horizon: Late August Through September

Looking ahead, the calendar through September is packed with community events that make Northern NJ special. August 25: Fort Lee Summer Concert Series finale with New Power Soul. August 27: Dave Matthews Band at bergenPAC in Englewood. August 28-30: Saborland Food Festival at American Dream. September 4-7: The 111th Annual St. Joseph's Festival in Lodi — one of Bergen County's longest-running Italian feasts with live music, food, games, and rides over Labor Day weekend. September 8: Ladies' Health Event at the Richard Rodda Center in Teaneck (7-8 p.m.). September 10-13: The 100th Annual Hoboken Italian Festival on Sinatra Drive along the waterfront — a centennial celebration not to be missed, with parades, live music, and world-class Italian cuisine. September 11-13: St. Anne's Parish Carnival and Food Fair in Fair Lawn. September 12: Fort Lee Artisan Market returns. September 12-13: St. Mark's Annual Festival in Jersey City (11 a.m.-9 p.m., 427 West Side Ave). September 14-27: Fort Lee Restaurant Week — two weeks of special menus at the borough's best restaurants. September 18-20: Bergen County Fall Harvest Festival at Overpeck County Park in Ridgefield Park with 4-H displays, craft fair, carnival rides, and seasonal food. September 19: All About Downtown Street Fair in Jersey City (12-8 p.m., Newark Avenue between Grove and Coles Streets, 15th annual edition). September 19: Kenny G at bergenPAC in Englewood. September 26: Leonia Oktoberfest at Wood Park (1-9 p.m.) with music, food, and Bavarian tradition. September 26: River City Fair in Hoboken on Sinatra Drive (11 a.m.-5 p.m.) — a waterfront festival with two stages of live entertainment.

6. Florida Amendment 3 — Still No Ruling, Now Three Weeks After Hearing

It has now been three weeks since the July 29 hearing before Judge Angela Dempsey in Leon County Circuit Court, and no ruling has been issued yet. Three consolidated lawsuits were argued with both sides requesting summary judgment. State economists project $5 billion in local revenue losses by 2027 and $10.75 billion by 2031 if Amendment 3 passes. The potential expansion of the homestead exemption to $250,000 remains the single most significant financial incentive on the table for NJ homeowners considering a Florida move. The January 1, 2027 residency deadline for full benefit eligibility keeps drawing closer with each passing week. The moment a decision comes down, I will post an update here.

1. Weekend Wrap-Up — Puerto Rican Parade, Fiesta in America, Charlie Chaplin at Fort Lee, Jersey Tenors Concert

The 66th Annual Jersey City Puerto Rican Parade & Festival on August 15-16 was a resounding success, with thousands filling the streets for one of Hudson County's biggest cultural celebrations. At the same time, Fiesta in America at the Meadowlands Exposition Center brought Latin American artisans, dance performances, and authentic cuisine to East Rutherford. Charlie Chaplin's "The Gold Rush" screened at 1 Park Avenue in Fort Lee with live musical accompaniment by Makia Matsumura, a wonderful nod to the borough's historic role as the birthplace of the American film industry. The Hoboken Sinatra Sing-Off on Thursday August 13 was also a highlight. And Tuesday August 18 brought the Jersey Tenors to the Fort Lee Summer Concert Series. Farmers markets across both counties remained at peak season with Jersey tomatoes, corn, peaches, and stone fruit at their best.

2. This Week's Events: August 17-23

The late-summer event calendar shows no signs of slowing down. Tuesday August 18: The Fort Lee Summer Concert Series continues with the Jersey Tenors at the Jack Alter Community Center (7:30 p.m., free) — a crowd-pleasing blend of opera and rock classics. Wednesday August 19: Movies Under the Stars in Hoboken at 7:30 p.m. Saturday August 22: Summer BlockFest in Hoboken (4th annual hip-hop festival at 770 Jackson Street, with a rain date of August 29) — one of Hoboken's most energetic community events. Also Saturday: The Jersey City Pride Festival centered around the Newark Avenue Pedestrian Plaza — one of the largest Pride celebrations in the Northeast. Saturday August 22: Outdoor Mega Workout at Mackay Park in Englewood (10:30 a.m., free) — a great way to stay active with the community. Tuesday August 25: Fort Lee Summer Concert Series wraps for the season with New Power Soul. Thursday August 27: Dave Matthews Band at the Bergen Performing Arts Center in Englewood. August 28-30: The Saborland Food Festival at American Dream in East Rutherford — a weekend of food, music, and culture. Fort Lee Farmers Market runs every Sunday 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Hoboken Concerts in the Park series continues at Pier A Park. Farmers markets in Englewood (Fridays), Teaneck (Thursdays), Ridgewood (Sundays), and Jersey City (Mondays & Thursdays) are all in full swing.

3. Freddie Mac PMMS — Holding at 6.69% (August 13 Reading Confirmed)

Freddie Mac's Primary Mortgage Market Survey released Thursday August 13 confirmed the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaging 6.69%, unchanged from the prior week for the second consecutive reading. The 15-year fixed stands at 5.90-5.98% depending on the lender. Mortgage News Daily data shows the 30-year fixed rate at approximately 6.74% on August 13. Bankrate New Jersey purchase rates remain in the 6.62-6.84% range. The pattern is clear: rates have settled in a narrow band in the mid-to-upper sixes with no conviction to break meaningfully lower. The next PMMS reading comes Thursday August 20. For Bergen and Hudson County buyers, locking now locks in certainty — floating for a potential dip carries real risk as the fall season approaches and economic data remains mixed. For sellers, this rate environment keeps the buyer pool selective, making accurate first-day pricing and strong curb appeal non-negotiable.

4. Bergen County Market — Mid-August Snapshot

The Greater Bergen REALTORS June 2026 report remains the latest official data, showing single-family median sale prices around $822,000 (up 9.8% year-over-year) with 584 closed sales (up 13.0%). Zillow's broader measure shows Bergen County's median home value at approximately $946,000 as of June, up 7.3% year-over-year. Inventory stands at 2,103 active listings as of August 1 — the highest in several years. Months-of-supply at 1.4-1.7 months remains firmly in seller's market territory. Days on market averages 28 days for sold properties, with well-priced homes in the $500K-$900K range still drawing the strongest buyer interest. New listings rose 8.3% year-over-year, meaning more options exist now for buyers than at any point in the last two years — though bidding wars remain common for homes priced correctly in desirable neighborhoods. The July data from NJ REALTORS should post in the coming weeks and I will update here when it does.

5. Events on the Horizon: Late August Through September

Looking ahead, the calendar through September is packed with community events that make Northern NJ special. August 25: Fort Lee Summer Concert Series finale with New Power Soul. August 27: Dave Matthews Band at bergenPAC in Englewood. August 28-30: Saborland Food Festival at American Dream. September 4-7: The 111th Annual St. Joseph's Festival in Lodi — one of Bergen County's longest-running Italian feasts with live music, food, games, and rides over Labor Day weekend. September 10-13: The 100th Annual Hoboken Italian Festival on Sinatra Drive along the waterfront — a centennial celebration not to be missed, with parades, live music, and world-class Italian cuisine. September 12: Fort Lee Artisan Market returns. September 14-27: Fort Lee Restaurant Week — two weeks of special menus at the borough's best restaurants. September 18-20: Bergen County Fall Harvest Festival at Overpeck County Park in Ridgefield Park with 4-H displays, craft fair, carnival rides, and seasonal food. September 19: All About Downtown Street Fair in Jersey City (12-8 p.m., Newark Avenue between Grove and Coles Streets). September 26: Leonia Oktoberfest at Wood Park (1-9 p.m.) with music, food, and Bavarian tradition.

6. Florida Amendment 3 — Still No Ruling, Now Three Weeks After Hearing

It has now been three weeks since the July 29 hearing before Judge Angela Dempsey in Leon County Circuit Court, and no ruling has been issued yet. Three consolidated lawsuits were argued with both sides requesting summary judgment. State economists project $5 billion in local revenue losses by 2027 and $10.75 billion by 2031 if Amendment 3 passes. The potential expansion of the homestead exemption to $250,000 remains the single most significant financial incentive on the table for NJ homeowners considering a Florida move. The January 1, 2027 residency deadline for full benefit eligibility keeps drawing closer with each passing week. The moment a decision comes down, I will post an update here.

1. Freddie Mac PMMS — Holding at 6.69% (Thursday August 13 Reading)

Freddie Mac's Primary Mortgage Market Survey released yesterday, Thursday August 13, showed the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaging 6.69%, unchanged from the prior week. The 15-year fixed stands at 5.90-5.98% depending on the lender. Mortgage News Daily data shows the 30-year fixed rate at approximately 6.74% on August 13 (up slightly from 6.65% two weeks ago). Bankrate New Jersey purchase rates as of mid-August are in the 6.62-6.84% range. For Bergen and Hudson County buyers, the pattern is clear: rates have settled in a narrow band in the mid-to-upper sixes with no conviction to break meaningfully lower. Locking now locks in certainty; floating for a potential dip carries real risk as the fall season approaches and economic data remains mixed. For sellers, this rate environment keeps the buyer pool selective — accurate first-day pricing and strong curb appeal are non-negotiable.

2. Last Weekend's Event Calendar: August 14-16

Late-summer weekend events were in full swing across both counties. Friday August 14: The Fort Lee Summer Movie Series presented a free screening at the Jack Alter Community Center. Saturday August 15: The 66th Annual Jersey City Puerto Rican Parade & Festival kicked off with a parade and continued through Sunday — one of Hudson County's largest cultural celebrations with live music, food vendors, and family-friendly programming all weekend. Also Saturday-Sunday: Fiesta in America at the Meadowlands Exposition Center in East Rutherford, a two-day celebration of Latin American culture with artisans, dance performances, and authentic cuisine. Saturday August 15: Hoboken Concerts in the Park series continued with a free performance at Pier A Park. The Fort Lee Farmers Market ran Sunday with peak-season Jersey produce.

3. Bergen County Market — Mid-August Snapshot

The Greater Bergen REALTORS June 2026 report posted single-family median sale prices around $822,000 (up 9.8% year-over-year) with 584 closed sales (up 13.0%). Zillow's broader measure shows Bergen County's median home value at approximately $946,000 as of June, up 7.3% year-over-year. Inventory stands at 2,103 active listings as of August 1 — the highest in several years. Months-of-supply at 1.4-1.7 months remains firmly in seller's market territory. Days on market averages 28 days for sold properties, with well-priced homes in the $500K-$900K range still drawing the strongest buyer interest. New listings rose 8.3% year-over-year, meaning more options exist now for buyers than at any point in the last two years — though bidding wars remain common for homes priced correctly in desirable neighborhoods.

4. Back-to-School Prep: Registration Deadlines and District Calendars

With Labor Day on September 7, Bergen County school districts are finalizing their 2026-2027 academic calendars. Most districts schedule teacher prep days for the week of August 31, with the first student day on September 8 or 9. For families who moved into the area over the summer, now is the time to complete registrations. Each of Bergen County's roughly 75 public school districts runs its own enrollment process, and some require physical presence for immunizations and residency verification. The Bergen County Academies application cycle opens in August and September with informational sessions and open houses. For the complete schedule and resources, see our back-to-school guide for Bergen County parents. Also helpful: our guide to Bergen County's best schools for district-by-district comparisons.

5. Events on the Horizon: Late August and September

Looking ahead, the late-summer and fall calendar is packed. August 18: Fort Lee Summer Concert Series continues featuring the Jersey Tenors at the Jack Alter Community Center (7:30 p.m., free). August 19: Movies Under the Stars in Hoboken (7:30 p.m.). August 22: Summer BlockFest in Hoboken (4th annual hip-hop festival at 770 Jackson Street, rain date August 29) and the Jersey City Pride Festival centered around Newark Avenue Pedestrian Plaza. August 22: Outdoor Mega Workout at Mackay Park in Englewood (10:30 a.m., free). August 25: Fort Lee Summer Concert Series wraps with New Power Soul. August 27: Dave Matthews Band at the Bergen Performing Arts Center in Englewood. August 28-30: Saborland Food Festival at American Dream in East Rutherford. September 4-7: The 111th Annual St. Joseph's Festival in Lodi, one of Bergen County's longest-running Italian feasts with live music, food, games, and rides. September 10-13: The 100th Annual Hoboken Italian Festival on Sinatra Drive along the Hoboken waterfront — a centennial celebration with parades, music, and Italian cuisine. September 12: Fort Lee Artisan Market returns. September 14-27: Fort Lee Restaurant Week. September 18-20: Bergen County Fall Harvest Festival at Overpeck County Park in Ridgefield Park with 4-H displays, craft fair, carnival rides, and food. September 19: All About Downtown Street Fair in Jersey City (12-8 p.m., Newark Avenue between Grove and Coles Streets). September 26: Leonia Oktoberfest at Wood Park (1-9 p.m.) with music, food, and Bavarian tradition.

6. Florida Amendment 3 — Still No Ruling, Approaching Three Weeks

It has now been more than two weeks since the July 29 hearing before Judge Angela Dempsey in Leon County Circuit Court, and no ruling has been issued. Three consolidated lawsuits were argued with both sides requesting summary judgment. State economists project $5 billion in local revenue losses by 2027 and $10.75 billion by 2031 if Amendment 3 passes. The potential expansion of the homestead exemption to $250,000 remains the single most significant financial incentive on the table for NJ homeowners considering a Florida move. The January 1, 2027 residency deadline for full benefit eligibility keeps drawing closer. The moment a decision comes down, I will post an update here.

1. Freddie Mac PMMS — Last Reading 6.69%, Next Release Tomorrow

Freddie Mac's Primary Mortgage Market Survey from Thursday August 6 showed the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaging 6.69%. The next PMMS reading comes out this Thursday, August 13. Market watchers expect rates to hold in the mid-to-upper six-percent range where they have settled through the first half of August. The 15-year fixed stands at 5.90-6.01% depending on the lender. Bankrate data as of August 12 shows New Jersey purchase rates in the 6.62-6.84% range. For Bergen and Hudson County buyers, locking now locks in predictability — waiting for a meaningful dip carries real risk given the current economic signals and the upward trend seen in recent weeks. For sellers, this rate level keeps the buyer pool narrower than it would be at lower rates, making accurate pricing from day one more important than ever.

2. This Week's Event Calendar: August 12-18

Mid-August brings another full week of community events across both counties. Tonight, Wednesday August 12: Fort Lee hosts its 70s Rock Parade at 7:30 p.m. at the Jack Alter Community Center — a free evening of live music and retro fun. Thursday August 13: The Hoboken Sinatra Sing-Off at Sinatra Park (7 p.m.) — an annual tribute to Hoboken's most famous son with amateur vocalists competing in an open-air singing contest along the waterfront. Also Thursday: "Hoppers" movie screening at Fort Lee's Summer Movie Series (8 p.m., Jack Alter Community Center). Saturday-Sunday August 15-16: The 66th Annual Jersey City Puerto Rican Parade & Festival, one of Hudson County's biggest cultural celebrations featuring a parade, live music, food vendors, and community programming. Also this weekend: Fiesta in America at the Meadowlands Exposition Center in East Rutherford — a celebration of Latin American culture with artisans, dance performances, and authentic cuisine. Farmers markets across Bergen and Hudson Counties remain at peak season with the best local produce of the year. Fort Lee Summer Concert Series continues August 18 and 25.

3. Bergen County Market — August Inventory at 2,100+ Listings

The Greater Bergen REALTORS June 2026 report confirms strong market conditions. Single-family median sale prices around $822,000 (up 9.8% year-over-year) with 584 closed sales (up 13.0%). The wider Zillow dataset shows Bergen County's median home value at approximately $946,000 (up 7.3% year-over-year as of June). Active inventory as of August 1 stands at 2,103 listings. Months-of-supply remains at 1.4-1.7 months across property types, firmly in seller's market territory. Homes in the $500K-$900K range continue to draw the strongest buyer interest. Days on market averages 28 days for sold properties — well-priced homes are still moving fast.

4. Back-to-School Season Begins Across Bergen County

With Labor Day falling on September 7, 2026, most Bergen County school districts are preparing for teacher prep days the week of August 31 and student start dates of September 8-9. For parents new to the area, now is the time to finalize registrations and check district-specific calendars. Bergen County has roughly 75 separate public school districts, each with its own calendar, making early planning essential. Key dates: the Bergen County Academies application timeline opens in August-September with open houses and informational sessions for the selective magnet program. School supply lists are being posted now on district websites. For a full rundown of start dates, registration requirements, and the academic calendar, see our complete back-to-school guide. For district performance comparisons, read our guide to Bergen County's best schools.

5. Upcoming Events: What's Ahead in Late August and September

Looking ahead, several major events are on the horizon. August 22: Summer BlockFest in Hoboken (4th annual hip-hop festival at 770 Jackson Street, rain date August 29) and the Jersey City Pride Festival — one of the largest pride celebrations in the Northeast, centered around the Newark Avenue Pedestrian Plaza. August 22: Outdoor Mega Workout at Mackay Park in Englewood (10:30 a.m., free). August 27: Dave Matthews Band at the Bergen Performing Arts Center in Englewood. August 28-30: Saborland Food Festival at American Dream in East Rutherford. Fort Lee Restaurant Week runs September 14-27, and the Fort Lee Artisan Market returns September 12. September 26: Leonia Oktoberfest at Wood Park (1-9 p.m.) with music, food, and Bavarian tradition — a great community event to put on your calendar early.

6. Florida Amendment 3 — Still No Ruling, Two Weeks After Hearing

It has now been two weeks since the July 29 hearing before Judge Angela Dempsey in Leon County Circuit Court, and no ruling has been issued yet. Three consolidated lawsuits were argued, with both sides asking the judge to decide the case without a trial. State economists project $5B in local revenue losses in 2027 and $10.75B by 2031 if the measure passes. The potential expansion of the homestead exemption to $250,000 remains the single most significant financial incentive on the table for NJ homeowners considering a Florida move, and the clock toward the January 1, 2027 residency deadline keeps ticking. I will update the moment the decision comes in.

1. Freddie Mac PMMS — 30-Year Fixed at 6.69% (Holding Steady)

Freddie Mac's Primary Mortgage Market Survey from Thursday August 6 showed the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaging 6.69%, unchanged from the prior week's upward tick. The 15-year fixed stands at 5.90-5.98% depending on the lender. Bankrate and U.S. News data as of August 10 show purchase rates in the 6.51-6.84% range depending on the lender and points. Rates are holding in the mid-to-upper six-percent range where they have settled through the first half of August. For Bergen and Hudson County buyers, the window for locking is open — waiting for a meaningful dip carries real risk given current economic signals. For sellers, this rate level means the buyer pool remains narrower than it would be at lower rates, making accurate pricing from day one more important than ever.

2. Events: August 10-16 Wrap

The Jersey Beach Boys performed at Fort Lee's Summer Concert Series on Tuesday August 11. The Hoboken Sinatra Sing-Off is Thursday August 13 at Sinatra Park (7 p.m.). The 66th Annual Jersey City Puerto Rican Parade & Festival runs this weekend August 15-16 along with Fiesta in America at the Meadowlands Exposition Center. Fort Lee Summer Concert Series continues with shows on August 18 and 25. Farmers markets across Bergen and Hudson Counties are at peak season with the best produce of the year.

3. Bergen County Market — August Inventory Update

The Greater Bergen REALTORS June 2026 report confirms single-family median sale prices around $822,000 (up 9.8% year-over-year) with 538 closed sales (up 10.7%). The condo and townhome segment shows a median sale price of $541,225 (roughly flat year-over-year). Active inventory as of early August stands at approximately 2,100+ listings — the highest level in years. Months-of-supply remains at 1.4-1.7 months across property types, still firmly in seller's market territory. The June data from NJ REALTORS shows single-family homes selling at 102.8% of asking price, and new listings increased by 8.3% year-over-year.

4. New Restaurant Openings and Dining Updates

The Northern NJ dining scene keeps evolving. The Cove By Blu — the new waterfront restaurant from the team behind Blu on the Hudson — has been officially announced for Edgewater at 115 River Road. Bear Donut at 55 N. Dean Street in Englewood continues to draw crowds. Uncle Al's Sourdough Pizza at 19 Route 5 in Edgewater is now firmly established. In Fort Lee, Hanwoori and BHC Chicken remain popular. Pub 178 in Teaneck has built a steady following. In Hoboken, Nana's Dumpling + Dim Sum and KiKi Lu Gelato continue to be must-try spots.

5. Florida Amendment 3 — Still No Ruling

No ruling has been issued yet from Judge Angela Dempsey on the Florida Amendment 3 ballot language challenge. The hearing concluded July 29 in Leon County Circuit Court. State economists project $5B in local revenue losses in 2027 and $10.75B by 2031 if the measure passes. The potential expansion of the homestead exemption to $250,000 remains the single most significant financial incentive on the table for NJ homeowners considering a Florida move.

1. Freddie Mac PMMS — 30-Year Fixed at 6.69%

Freddie Mac's Primary Mortgage Market Survey released yesterday, Thursday August 6, showed the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaging 6.69%, up from 6.66% the prior week. The 15-year fixed stands at 5.90-5.98% depending on the lender. Bankrate data for New Jersey shows purchase rates around 6.69% (6.84% APR) and refinance rates around 6.88-7.02% as of early August. Rates continue to hold in the mid-to-upper six-percent range. For Bergen and Hudson County buyers, the message remains consistent: locking now locks in predictability; floating for a potential dip carries real risk in the current rate environment. For sellers, this rate level keeps the pool of qualified buyers narrower than it would be at lower rates, making accurate pricing from day one essential.

2. This Weekend: Event Calendar August 7-9

The August event calendar keeps delivering this weekend. Tonight, Friday August 7: The R&B Tour with Usher and Chris Brown at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford (8 p.m.) — a massive concert event drawing tens of thousands. Also tonight: Summer Sounds at the Commons in Fort Lee (6-8:30 p.m., free outdoor concert), UB40 featuring Ali Campbell at bergenPAC in Englewood (8 p.m.), and a free outdoor screening of 'The SpongeBob Movie: Search for the SquarePants' at Van Saun County Park in Paramus (8:30 p.m.). Saturday August 8: The Fort Lee Artisan Night Market (4-9 p.m. at Fort Lee Commons) with local artisans, handcrafted goods, food vendors, and live entertainment. The New Jersey Wine Festival at Demarest Farms in Hillsdale runs Saturday-Sunday (ages 21+). La Festa Italiana in Jersey City continues through Sunday at Holy Rosary Church. Saint Rocco's Feast in Fort Lee continues through Sunday, and Saint Rocco's Feast in Glen Rock runs through Tuesday August 11. Sunday August 9: Coffee + Birds event in Franklin Lakes. Farmers markets across Bergen and Hudson Counties remain at peak season with the best local produce of the year.

3. Bergen County Market — Fresh Snapshot with 2,103 Active Listings

New data from Elevate Realty NJ and the Greater Bergen REALTORS association provides the clearest picture yet of the summer market. As of August 1, 2026, Bergen County has 2,103 active listings — up significantly from earlier in the year. The median sale price for all property types hovers around $788,000, with single-family homes (June 2026 data from NJ REALTORS) reaching approximately $822,000, up 9.8% year-over-year. The condo and townhome segment shows a median sale price of $575,000, up 3.1% year-over-year. Months-of-supply remains at 1.4-1.7 months — firmly in seller's market territory. New single-family listings were up 8.3% year-over-year, and closed sales rose 13.0%, indicating that well-priced homes continue to attract strong buyer demand. The takeaway: inventory is improving meaningfully, but demand remains robust enough to keep the market competitive.

4. New Restaurant Openings to Try This Weekend

Several new dining options have opened across Bergen County in recent weeks. The Cove By Blu — a new waterfront restaurant from the team behind Blu on the Hudson — has been announced for Edgewater at 115 River Road, adding another destination dining option to the Gold Coast waterfront. Bear Donut has opened at 55 N. Dean Street in Englewood, offering fresh doughnuts, coffee, and matcha tea — a welcome addition to Englewood's thriving cafe scene. Uncle Al's Sourdough Pizza is now open at 19 Route 5 in Edgewater, bringing artisanal sourdough pizza to the waterfront corridor. Bean and Crumb Cafe has opened in Bogota with coffee, pastries, and specialty drinks. In Fort Lee, Sikgam (new Korean restaurant) and Cap't Loui (Cajun seafood boil at 210 Main Street) continue to draw diners. And in Teaneck, Pub 178 (Irish pub and sports bar) has been drawing a steady local crowd since opening earlier this year.

5. Florida Amendment 3 — Still No Ruling

No ruling has been issued yet from Judge Angela Dempsey on the Florida Amendment 3 ballot language challenge. The hearing concluded July 29 in Leon County Circuit Court, with both sides asking the judge to decide the case without a trial. State economists project $5B in local revenue losses in 2027 and $10.75B by 2031 if the measure passes. The potential expansion of the homestead exemption to $250,000 remains the single most significant financial incentive on the table for NJ homeowners considering a Florida move, and the clock toward the January 1, 2027 residency deadline keeps ticking. I will update the moment the decision comes in.

1. La Festa Italiana & Saint Rocco's Feast Continue Through Sunday

Two major Italian street festivals launched Wednesday August 5 and continue through their final weekend. La Festa Italiana in Jersey City celebrates its 124th year at Holy Rosary Church on 6th Street, running through Sunday August 9 with live entertainment, authentic Italian foods, and one of the city's most beloved traditions. Saint Rocco's Feast in Fort Lee runs August 5-9 for its 97th annual edition, packing Main Street with Italian food, carnival games, live music, and fireworks. And Saint Rocco's Feast in Glen Rock runs August 7-11. This weekend is the final stretch for all three — there is no better way to experience the heart of these communities than at a street festival in full swing.

2. This Week's Full Event Calendar

The August calendar is packed. Beyond the Italian feasts: Fort Lee Summer Sounds at the Commons is Friday, August 7 (6-8:30 p.m., free). Fort Lee Artisan Night Market is Saturday, August 8 (4-9 p.m.) with local artisans, handcrafted goods, and live entertainment. New Jersey Wine Festival at Demarest Farms runs August 8-9 (ages 21+). Hoboken Sinatra Sing-Off is August 13 at Sinatra Park. Jersey City Puerto Rican Parade & Festival runs August 15-16 (66th annual). Summer BlockFest in Hoboken is August 22. Jersey City Pride Festival is August 22. Saborland Food Festival at American Dream runs August 28-30. Farmers markets across both counties remain at peak season with the best local produce of the year.

3. Freddie Mac PMMS — 30-Year Fixed at 6.62%

Freddie Mac's Primary Mortgage Market Survey released Thursday, July 30 showed the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage at 6.66%, with subsequent purchase rates inching to 6.62-6.93% depending on the lender. The 15-year fixed now stands at 5.87-5.98%. Bankrate data for New Jersey shows purchase rates around 6.62% (6.84% APR) and refinance rates around 6.88-7.02% as of early August. Rates are holding in the mid-to-upper six-percent range. For Bergen and Hudson County buyers, the message is consistent: locking now locks in predictability; floating for a potential dip carries real risk in the current environment. For sellers, this rate level keeps the pool of qualified buyers narrower than it would be at 5.5%, making accurate pricing from day one essential.

4. Bergen County Market — Fresh August Snapshot

The latest data shows Bergen County's median sale price holding around $788,000 for all property types (up 4.7% year-over-year), with single-family homes tracking higher at approximately $835,000-851,000 depending on the dataset. Median price per square foot is $458 (up 6.9%). Active inventory sits at approximately 1,550-1,720 listings — up 7-17% year-over-year but still roughly 22% below pre-pandemic 2019 levels. Months-of-supply remains at 1.4-1.7 months, firmly in seller's market territory. Homes sell in an average of 63 days (three-month rolling), with well-priced properties in desirable towns moving in 30-45 days. Seller concessions are present in approximately 42% of recent transactions, up from 31% a year earlier — a quiet shift worth noting for both buyers and sellers.

5. Fort Lee Dining Scene — New Openings to Try

Fort Lee's restaurant scene continues to grow. Wonder (2036 Hudson St) opened in early 2026, a delivery-first food hall concept featuring menus from top chefs including Bobby Flay and Jose Andres. Seoul Cream (112 Linwood Ave) is a new Korean bakery and cafe worth a visit. In Leonia, Snackstop opened at the corner of Broad Avenue and Fort Lee Road serving breakfast and sandwiches — a welcome addition to the local dining scene. In Hoboken, Nana's Dumpling + Dim Sum (38 Jackson St) opened in the Southend Lofts, the first New Jersey location for this Colorado-based dumpling shop. KiKi Lu Gelato (1500 Hudson St) serves authentic Italian-style gelato made fresh daily — perfect after a walk along the Hoboken waterfront. In Jersey City, Rosie's (246 Grove St) is a new diner concept expected to open soon, and Jane's Matcha debuted in Jersey City Heights with a tearoom featuring handmade ceramics and premium matcha.

6. Florida Amendment 3 — Still No Ruling

No ruling has been issued yet from Judge Angela Dempsey on the Florida Amendment 3 ballot language challenge. The hearing concluded July 29 in Leon County Circuit Court, with both sides asking the judge to decide the case without a trial. State economists project $5B in local revenue losses in 2027 and $10.75B by 2031 if the measure passes. The potential expansion of the homestead exemption to $250,000 remains the single most significant financial incentive on the table for NJ homeowners considering a Florida move, and the clock toward the January 1, 2027 residency deadline keeps ticking. I will update the moment the decision comes in.

1. Weekend Wrap-Up — Japanese Food Festival & Filipino Street Food Festival

The Japanese Food Festival at Overpeck County Park on Saturday, August 1 was a resounding success, bringing thousands of visitors to Leonia for Japanese street food, Taiko drumming, samurai sword demonstrations, Bon Odori dancing, and family activities. One of the most distinctive cultural events on the Bergen County calendar lived up to its reputation in year two. Sunday, August 2 brought the St. John's Filipino Street Food Festival to Leonia's Peter Kramer Hall, a wonderful community celebration of Filipino culture through food. Both events showcased the incredible cultural diversity that makes Bergen County such a special place to live.

2. This Week's Events — Festival Season Continues

The August festival calendar remains packed. La Festa Italiana in Jersey City (124th year!) runs Wednesday August 5 through Sunday August 9 at Holy Rosary Church on 6th Street — live entertainment, authentic Italian foods, and one of the city's most beloved traditions. Saint Rocco's Feast in Fort Lee runs August 5–9 (97th annual) with Italian food, music, games, and fireworks. Saint Rocco's Feast in Glen Rock runs August 7–11. Fort Lee's Summer Sounds at the Commons is Friday, August 7, 6–8:30 p.m. — free outdoor concert at Fort Lee Commons Park. The Fort Lee Artisan Night Market is Saturday, August 8, 4–9 p.m. with local artisans, handcrafted goods, food, and live entertainment. New Jersey Wine Festival at Demarest Farms in Hillsdale runs Saturday–Sunday, August 8–9 (ages 21+). And the Bergen County Zoo has Gray Wolves camp and Jr. Zookeepers camp running through August 7.

3. Freddie Mac PMMS — 30-Year Fixed at 6.66%

Freddie Mac's Primary Mortgage Market Survey confirmed the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage at 6.66% for the week ending July 30, with purchase rates inching toward 6.93% per U.S. News data and refinance rates around 6.88–7.02% depending on the lender. The 15-year fixed stands at 5.87%. Rates are holding in the mid-to-upper six-percent range where they have settled through late July and early August. For Bergen and Hudson County buyers, the message is consistent: if you are well-qualified, locking now locks in predictability; floating for a potential dip carries real risk in the current environment. For sellers, this rate level keeps the pool of qualified buyers narrower than it would be at 5.5% — making accurate pricing from day one essential.

4. Bergen County Mid-Summer Market Snapshot

The latest Redfin data (three months ending May 2026) shows Bergen County's median sale price holding around $788,000 (up 4.7% year-over-year) with a median price per square foot of $458 (up 6.9% annually). Active inventory sits at approximately 1,720 listings — roughly 1.6 months of supply, firmly in seller's market territory. Homes sell in an average of 63 days, slightly faster than the 68-day average a year ago. Homes continue to sell at 101–103% of asking price in the most desirable towns. The key takeaway: well-priced, move-in-ready homes in towns like Fort Lee, Ridgewood, Tenafly, and Glen Rock still command premium attention, while overpriced listings sit and collect days on market.

5. Fort Lee Dining Scene — Three New Openings in 2026

Fort Lee's restaurant scene continues to grow. Three notable openings this year: Hanwoori (Korean BBQ, opened March 2026 at 2020 Hudson St, replacing the former Gayeon location) offers modern charcoal-grilled cuisine in an elevated setting. BHC Chicken (Korean fried chicken, opened March 2026 at 240 Main St) is the sixth U.S. location for the global brand — a welcome addition to Fort Lee's already outstanding Korean dining corridor. Auri (all-day cafe and restaurant, opened January 2026 at 2020 Central Rd) serves coffee, meals, and health-focused menu items. Coming soon: Moobongri (soondae soup specialty) and Deli 1 (neighborhood deli). Fort Lee's dining scene keeps getting better — proof that the borough is much more than a commuter town.

6. Florida Amendment 3 — No Ruling Yet

Still no ruling from Judge Angela Dempsey on the Florida Amendment 3 ballot language challenge. The hearing concluded July 29 in Leon County Circuit Court, with both sides asking the judge to decide the case without a trial. State economists project $5B in local revenue losses in 2027 and $10.75B by 2031 if the measure passes. The potential expansion of the homestead exemption to $250,000 remains the single most significant financial incentive on the table for NJ homeowners considering a Florida move, and the clock toward the January 1, 2027 residency deadline keeps ticking. I will update the moment the decision comes in.