Is this North Jersey — or the North Pole?
In Colts Neck, NJ, a stately stone-clad home that hit the market in October for $2.19 million stands out for more than its two-story foyer, roomy kitchen and 2,000-square-foot outdoor patio surrounding a large saltwater pool. It’s all totally tricked out with Christmas decorations.
The four-bed, five-bath home at 1 Rivers Edge Dr. is heavenly host to several elaborate tableaux, which the home’s current owners — a brother and sister — don’t only keep up year-round, but will hand off to the new ho-ho-homebuyer if they’re willing to negotiate.
The festive flair is immediately visible upon entry. The foyer fits two large nutcrackers, at least four Santa Claus figures and two stately nativity scenes. They’re ornamented by a collection of wreaths (one of which hangs from the top of the grand staircase), red-and-green stockings and no fewer than five faux Christmas trees.
“It feels [like] good energy when you go into that house — it’s nice,” said Janice Rizzo, of Robert DeFalco Realty, who’s marketing this listing. (The owners were not immediately available for comment.) In addition to its festive trimmings, additional features include crown moldings throughout, stainless-steel appliances and a private gym. Outside, there’s a built-in grill, a brick oven and a fireplace.
Cheer spreads into a room located to the left of the foyer, which has another St. Nick figure, yet another dressed-up Christmas tree and what appears to be a portrait of the Virgin Mary holding the Christ Child. Beyond the foyer, a living area fits two more wreaths — one of which comes decorated with pine cones — and at least two more statues of Mary.
In the kitchen, meanwhile, a handful of other wreaths festoon the walls, over windows and near its rows of cherry-wood cabinetry. A peek of the other listing images show a Christmas tree tucked into the corner of a large gray-walled bedroom — and a room that appears to be a gallery for framed family photos is lined with several smaller nutcrackers and green holly.
You can even take in the holiday spirit as you sunbathe in the summertime: A full-size Nativity crèche stands under stone arches next to the pool.