Media Contact:            Evelyn Weiss Francisco: evelyn@caryl.com, (201) 796-7788

BARNEGAT, N.J., June 5, 2009 – Homebuyers searching for a spot at the Jersey Shore to call home this summer can choose between two distinct eco-friendly communities, developed by Walters Homes. Ocean Acres at Barnegat offers a luxurious selection of single-family homes, featuring Energy Star appliances. While at Whispering Hills, spacious LEED-certified townhouses are currently under construction.

So far this year, home sales at Ocean Acres are exceeding last year’s pace, according to Pamela Schuster, marketing and sales manager for Walters Homes. A total of 19 contracts have been signed and three are pending. “I’m optimistic that sales contract numbers will continue to rise during the summer buying season,” added Schuster.

Walters Homes is currently building a new colonial-style Sherwood spec, featuring a 1,700-square-foot floor plan with a full basement and two-car garage. The three-bedroom, two and one-half bath Sherwood model has a base price of $249,995. The Sherwood spec under construction is priced at $260,707, and includes $10,712 in predetermined upgrades in a two-story floor plan with a full basement, upgraded timberline roof, and ceramic tile in powder room.

Expansion options on any new Sherwood home on a different lot include a full-front porch, an expanded family room, an expanded master bath, and a fourth bedroom. Buyers can also opt to add a full basement.

Buyers at Ocean Acres can choose from a large portfolio of competitively priced homes with various floor plans, starting at $249,995. Two professionally decorated models are open for tours, and one spec home is currently available for immediate occupancy. As an added bonus, Walters Homes is offering eligible buyers $7,000 in seller concessions when using one of Walters Homes’ preferred lenders plus $1,500 in options. Walters’ two preferred lenders are Van Dyk Mortgage Services and Ocean First Bank. Concessions are applied towards closing costs.

Traffic has also been brisk at Whispering Hills where a sales office and four new model homes are slated to be completed in July. To date, sales activity has resulted in 11 signed contracts and one deposit since construction began earlier this year.

Located off Rose Hill Road, between Barnegat Boulevard and Route 9, potential homebuyers at Whispering Hills have the opportunity to purchase Silver LEED-certified townhouses, starting at $239,995. The first phase, currently under construction, will encompass 107 units. The units range from 1,909 square feet to 2,191 square feet and include a full basement. Finished basements bring the living space to over 2,400 square feet. Four, two-story floor plans are now being offered, including one- and two-car garage models. Eligible buyers can also receive $1,500 in seller concessions when using a preferred lender.

“Competitive pricing, record-low interest rates, and a first-time homebuyer tax credit are helping to generate traffic in this real estate market,” said Ed Walters, Jr., president and founder of Walters Homes.

Whispering Hills, an eco-friendly community nestled in an 85-acre wooded enclave, is being built to LEED standards, a green rating system started by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). LEED-certified homes are more energy efficient than conventional non-green homes, translating into savings for homeowners, according to Walters. In addition, Energy Star-certified appliances are installed in every new home at Whispering Hills and Ocean Acres.

Both Whispering Hills and Ocean Acres are situated in Barnegat, bordered on the east by Barnegat Bay and separated from the Atlantic Ocean by the barrier island of Long Beach. The historic community offers residents proximity to two major cities, Philadelphia to the west and New York City to the north, while enjoying the charm and ambiance of coastal living. The town has been recognized for its outstanding quality-of-life, including exceptional recreational amenities such as swimming, fishing and boating. Ample shopping, dining, and medical facilities are also easily accessible. The area’s strategic location near major highways is a draw for commuters.

The Whispering Hills and Ocean Acres at Barnegat sales offices at 57 Nautilus Drive are located just off Exit 67 of the Garden State Parkway, between Bay Avenue in Barnegat Township and the Stafford Township line. For more information, contact the sales office at 609-698-7700.