Rt31 corridor...

I'm from South Jersey originally.. I found a few key things to look at when picking a place up here....

• Beware of topography... A deep snow + spring rain can truly flood the creeks and rivers... The Delaware north of Belvedere (I know, not your market) got it a few years ago. In the hills, rock nis near the surface, and the soil doesn't drain as fast as in the south (but your clay may be an exception) .. look for a basement sump pump.. then ask about interior water history. Combine that with avoiding lowlands.

• most of that strip feels remote.. little easy transportation to any city, so you likely need your own. Near the Trenton or Clinton ends it's a bit better.

• The last time I was frequently in the area, it looked like Pittstown to Clinton were growing.. look a bit there. Know that Clinton has that "desirable" tag that runs prices up.

• you may want to rent until you find a school system to settle into... Taxes often vary wildly around that issue.

Best of luck. Bring the Panzarottis!