When prices rise, it is easy to look at a house and think… that much? But in East Brunswick, you are not just buying a property. You are buying the neighborhood that stays well cared for and the access to parks, highways, and local spots that make everyday life easier.

In this clip, we step back from the walls of a home and shine a light on the community wrapped around it. With Mayor Brad Cohen in the conversation, we explore why this town keeps its value and continues to win families over year after year.

Catch this conversation in this episode of The Jersey Link Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5dczT5A4H9Su9yYtAtsBmpApple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ep09-how-mayor-brad-cohen-is-shaping-east-brunswicks/id1822771174?i=1000731229950YouTube: https://youtu.be/YforbR4hDOc

Until the next episode!

The population is 50,000…, and somehow it still feels like everyone knows each other. What keeps East Brunswick feeling so connected while it keeps growing?

On this Jersey Link Podcast recap, Jose Sanchez and Kate Vargo look back at East Brunswick, a town blending tradition, progress, and a whole lot of community pride. They revisit their chats with Sensei Andrew Katz from Tiger Schulmann’s and Mayor Brad Cohen to show how personal growth and community growth go hand in hand.

From the mats of Tiger Schulmann’s to the construction zones along Route 18, this recap captures East Brunswick in motion. Sensei Katz shares how lessons in confidence and discipline go far beyond martial arts, the kind that shape kids, parents, and the way a town sees itself. Then, Mayor Brad Cohen opens up about major projects breathing life back into Route 18, from new walkable developments to plans for a hockey arena that could turn East Brunswick into a weekend destination.

Jose and Kate also dig into what this all means for the real estate scene, tight inventory, rising values, and what smart buyers and sellers should be paying attention to. And just when things get serious, the episode wraps with a laugh-out-loud True or False round powered by local trivia. Turns out, even seasoned locals can get surprised by how much there is to love about East Brunswick.

Here are the key takeaways:

(2:59) Sensei Katz on teaching more than martial arts

(8:12) New businesses and Route 18 growth

(11:07) The hidden gems of East Brunswick’s recreation scene

(12:54) Why East Brunswick remains a strong seller’s market

(16:36) Selling fast with the right price strategy

(18:43) Smart updates that help homes sell

(21:51) Winning a bidding war and budgeting tips for buyers

(24:25) Financing renovations the easy way

(25:49) True or False: East Brunswick trivia gets spicy

Whether you live in East Brunswick or just love stories of local passion done right, this episode will have you nodding, laughing, and thinking about what home really means. Watch now and get a front-row seat to how Central Jersey keeps growing with heart.

About Katlin Vargo

Katlin Vargo is a real estate agent, focused on serving buyers, sellers, and investors in Central New Jersey. She has lived in Middlesex County for over ten years and brings a strong understanding of the local market. Outside of work, she spends time with her son, Beau, and their dog, Brooklyn, exploring nearby neighborhoods and parks.

Connect with Katlin:

Instagram

About Jose Sanchez

Jose Sanchez is a Broker-Associate at Keller Williams Realty West Monmouth with 22 years of experience in real estate, financial sales, and business operations. He leads a team, oversees recruitment, and manages client relationships throughout the buying and selling process. Jose also directs marketing efforts and helps drive team performance. He works closely with the community to support local growth and development. His focus remains on guiding clients and building strong partnerships across the region.

Connect with Jose:

LinkedIn

Instagram

Disclaimer

This podcast is for informational purposes only and reflects personal stories and community perspectives. It should not be considered professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to consult with relevant experts for guidance on specific issues.

What do you get when you mix soft serve, a snack bar, and 70 years of Freehold history?

You get Jersey Freeze!

In this clip, we rewind to the 1950s to uncover the humble beginnings of Jersey Freeze, starting as a simple soft-serve stand and growing into a beloved Freehold staple. From window-side service to full dining rooms, and from father to son, this is more than just a food spot…it’s a slice of local history.

Whether you're here for the nostalgia, the burgers, or the best soft serve in town, Jersey Freeze is a testament to how small beginnings can leave a lasting mark on a community.

Catch this sweet story in this episode of The Jersey Link

Podcast:

https://open.spotify.com/episode/4zlHmx2QLRLDbGGm8rBsO9

Apple:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ep07-jersey-freeze-then-and-now-freeholds-favorite/id1822771174?i=1000724042574

YouTube:

https://youtu.be/oasFye2df6o

See you in the next one!