buyersbuying a homebuying is cheaper than rentingCatherine NimmoFirst-time buyer questionsreal estate marketreason to own March 12, 2021

Why You Shouldn’t Wait until Spring to Buy A Home

If you’ve been thinking of buying a home, don’t wait! “Housing market conditions continue to be very favorable for buyers,” says Catherine Nimmo, a sales associate with ERA Justin Realty Co. “If you’re ready to make a purchase, there are many factors in your favor right now.”

 

Mortgage Rates Are Low

In 2020, mortgage rates hit all-time lows more than a dozen times, falling below 3% for the first time ever. “Essentially, this means it’s less expensive to borrow money for a home,” explains Catherine. “Buyers should capitalize on this as soon as possible, before rates start to rise again.”

 

Buying Is More Affordable Than Renting

According to Realtor.com, the difference between the cost to purchase a home compared to the cost to rent a home has shifted toward favoring buying a home. “When you buy a home, as opposed to paying rent, you’re contributing to your net worth,” Catherine says. “This is one of the biggest financial benefits of owning a home.”

 

Equity Is Growing

According to CoreLogic, today’s mortgaged homes have an average equity of $177,000. That translates to a huge amount of forced savings for homeowners. Considering the amount of equity in place for the typical homeowner, the chance of the market seeing a rush of foreclosures is not likely. “Compared to when the housing bubble burst many years ago, today’s buyers can be assured that their home investment is a sound decision,” Catherine says.

 

Home Prices Are Appreciating

“From what we’ve seen in the past year, home prices have steadily appreciated and we expect that trend to continue,” notes Catherine. “The combination of home value appreciation and low mortgage rates mean it’s an ideal time to buy and a smart long-term investment.”

 

Bottom Line

If you’re considering buying a home, this may be the best time to do it. To assess your needs and determine what the right move is for you, call Catherine or any of our experienced Real Estate Agents at 201.939.7500.

#11000 reviewsERA JustinERA Justin RealtyERA Real Estate awardRutherford February 25, 2021

ERA Justin Ranks #1 in Sales and Customer Satisfaction

Jennifer Darby Metzger and Ron Darby, broker/co-owners of ERA Justin Realty Co. are delighted to announce that once again, ERA Justin is the #1 brokerage in Rutherford home sales*.  This marks the 20th time in a row the company achieved this amazing distinction.

 

“We are so proud of our highly professional and knowledgeable agents,” said Ron. “It’s truly a thrill to be ranked number one in Rutherford, now 20 years running.”

 

“Our agents take full advantage of the tools, technology, and robust marketing support we provide to offer their clients the absolute best service and experience,” added Jennifer. “We get consistent rave reviews from our clients confirming what we already know — our agents are best in class.”

 

ERA Justin Realty Co. now has more than 1200 positive customer reviews. Here’s what our latest satisfied clients had to say.

 

“She immediately responded to my urgent need for a new home and worked tirelessly to help me find the best location. She made me feel like her first priority and the entire process of buying my home was completely painless. Thank you ERA Justin Realty! I was impressed!

 

“[Our agent] made what could have been a challenging house-hunting journey during times of COVID precautions into an understanding and comforting experience every step of the way. My family now resides in our dream home and in a home that exceeded our expectations.”

 

“From day one [my agent] was extremely responsive and helpful. All throughout the negotiations and closing [she] was there quickly handling any issues that may have risen during a pandemic. I would highly recommend [her] when purchasing or selling any property.”

 

“As a first-time home buyer, the purchase process is daunting. [Our agent] had all the answers to the process, which removed our tremendous lack of confidence. She knew when things we were told by others sounded right or wrong and did her research to follow up. And most importantly, I never felt railroaded. She was honest about the things she knew and the things she could only speculate about in a very wild market.”

 

“They were very helpful, involved, extremely professional and answered any questions.  They are very knowledgeable in the North Jersey real estate market and I always felt like I was in good hands. I would recommend them to anyone looking to sell their home.”

 

To work with any of our highly skilled agents for your real estate needs, call 201.939.7500.

 

*Market share statistic is based on data obtained by NJMLS for all homes sold in Rutherford from 1/1/2020 to 12/31/2020.

2020agentsaward winnersERA Justin Achievers February 19, 2021

ERA Justin 2020 Leaders Award Winners

ERA Justin Realty, the top residential real estate brokerage in the Rutherford area, is proud to announce its top producing agents for 2020. The members of this year’s ERA Justin Realty Leaders Awards were recently recognized at a virtual team sales meeting.

 

These agents, along with the rest of the exceptional team at ERA Justin Realty, once again propelled the office to a market leadership position. For the 20th consecutive year in a row, ERA Justin is the top selling real estate brokerage in Rutherford, based on Closed Sales Volume, according to statistics available from the New Jersey Multiple Listing Service (NJMLS). ERA Justin Realty has sold three times more homes in Rutherford than the nearest competitor.

 

ERA Justin’s Leaders Award recognizes those agents that consistently meet and exceed their goals and the company’s goals on a monthly basis. The 2020 Leaders Award winners are (pictured left to right): Fara Espandi, Lee Schilare, Rosemarie Zembryski. Cathy Vick, Julia Dagistanli, Jennifer Sullivan, Catherine Nimmo, and Carol D. Calamari.

 

The company also celebrated a number of outstanding achievements in 2020. According to the NJMLS, an impressive seven out of the ten top agents in Rutherford are from ERA Justin, including the number one agent, Fara Espandi. Rounding out the list are Jennifer Sullivan (#2); Lee Schilare (#4); Michelle Korosy (#5); Julia Daglistanli (#7); Danielle Sette (#9); and Cathy Vick (#10). The company also recognized Team Sette Davidson — Danielle Sette, Jessica Davison and Jennifer Zenquis — as the Top ERA Team in New Jersey, per its parent company ERA Franchise Systems LLC.

 

“We are extremely proud of these agents,” said Ron Darby, broker/co-owner. “Not only do they lead the company in sales and volume numbers, but they also set an example with their dedication to customer service and service to our community. Even during the extraordinary circumstances of the past year, they persevered to raise the bar — as did all of our agents — to continue to deliver extraordinary real estate experiences.”

 

“These are the agents that combine their local knowledge and experience with all that the ERA brand has to offer, including tools, training and technology,” adds Jennifer Darby Metzger. “Their market expertise and experience, combined with the amazing support of our office staff, resulted in their reaching and exceeding their goals.”

 

Want to work with one of our award-winning team members for your real estate needs? Call 201.939.7500. We are conveniently located at 118 Jackson Avenue and 57 Park Avenue, in Rutherford, NJ.

2020agentsaward winnersFara Espandilee schilareLibera Schilare February 12, 2021

ERA Justin 2020 Top Producers

ERA Justin Realty Co is proud to announce that Libera “Lee” Schilare and Fara Espandi were named the company’s top agents in 2020 based on sales volume and units.

 

Lee Schilare received the honor based on the number of units she achieved in 2020 for the company. This marks the second year in a row that Lee has earned this achievement and she was also top agent in sales volume last year. Lee achieved Gold level for the New Jersey Realtors (NJR) Circle of Excellence and ranked among the top ten in volume of all ERA Real Estate associates in the State of NJ. In addition to these accomplishments, Lee holds several real estate designations including ERA Distinctive Properties, 5 Star Professional, and Real Estate Negotiation Expert (RENE).

 

Fara Espandi received the honor based on the sales volume she achieved in 2020. Fara achieved this honor in 2018 as well along with most units sold. Fara is a lifetime member of the NJAR Distinguished Sales Club, a NJ Monthly Five Star Professional, and was recognized as a Bergen County Top 1% real estate agent for the last two years. Fara achieved Gold level for the New Jersey Realtors (NJR) Circle of Excellence as well as earning a position in the top ten in volume of all ERA Real Estate associates in the State of NJ. A knowledgeable and experienced agent, Fara holds several real estate designations including SFR and ERA Distinctive Properties.

 

“Fara and Lee are dedicated real estate professionals who strive to achieve impressive results for their customers. They work diligently to help their clients obtain their real estate goals and dreams and it is this commitment that drove them to become our top producing agents last year,” said Ron Darby, Broker/Owner of ERA Justin Realty Co. “We are so proud to have them as an essential part of the team.”

 

If you’re looking for expert real estate advice, call Lee or Fara at the office at 201.939.7500. ERA Justin Realty Co is conveniently located at 118 Jackson Avenue and 57 Park Avenue in Rutherford, NJ.

20202020 Circle of Excellenceawardaward winners February 3, 2021

Congrats to our 2020 Circle of Excellence Winners!

ERA Justin Realty Co. is proud to congratulate fifteen of its agents for being named the New Jersey Association of Realtors (NJAR) 2020 Circle of Excellence Sales Award winners. NJAR recognizes top producing real estate members who have demonstrated excellence in the field of salesmanship.

 

“We are thrilled to once again celebrate an impressive number of winners from our family of agents,” boasts Ron Darby, broker/co-owner.  “Three Gold, three Silver and nine Bronze is truly something to be proud of, especially considering the challenges we faced in 2020.”

 

“These agents take full advantage of the tools, training and robust marketing support we provide to create exceptional customer experiences,” added Jennifer Darby Metzger, broker/co-owner. “They truly are examples of our core values of service and dedication to our clients and community.”

 

This year’s Gold Level Award winners are Fara Espandi, Libera “Lee” Schilare, and Jennifer Sullivan.

 

Silver Level Award winners are Carol D. Calamari, Julia Dagistanli, and Michelle Korosy.

 

The Bronze Level Award winners are Beth Albanese, Jessica “Jessi” Davidson, Kristen Davis, Glenn Elliot, Margaret “Peggy” McLaughlin, Catherine Nimmo, Danielle Sette, Catharine “Cathy” Vick, and Rosemarie Zembryski.

 

In addition to recognizing these agents, Jennifer Darby Metzger and Ron Darby are delighted to announce that ERA Justin Realty’s highly professional and knowledgeable agents sold three times more homes in Rutherford than the nearest competitor, based on statistics from NJMLS, once again establishing itself as the #1 brokerage in Rutherford home sales for the 20th year in a row.

 

“We are thrilled to be able to say we achieved this position in the marketplace once again,” Ron continues, adding,  “It is our absolute honor to serve our community.”

kristen davisUncategorizedwinter home sellingwinter selling January 29, 2021

SELLING YOUR HOME DURING THE WINTER

SELLING YOUR HOME DURING THE WINTER

Winter is here, and while bad weather used to discourage buyers from venturing out, the rise in virtual tours and online showings eliminates many of the old roadblocks that came with home sales in the winter season.

“The biggest challenge for sellers in the winter season is the weather.  Even the brightest home can look dreary in inclement weather,” says Kristin Davis, a sales associate with ERA Justin Realty.  “With a few simple touches to create a warm and welcoming ambience, your home can still shine during this selling season.”

 

Clear a Path

Make sure walkways are shoveled clean of snow, and sprinkle a layer of sand or salt if freezing is a possibility. Place a rubber mat by the door for wet shoes and boots.

 

Let the Light In

Open the blinds and push back the drapes on every window. Turn on every light in the house, including appliance lights and closet lights.

 

Keep it Warm

“Heat the house a degree or two warmer than usual before the showing, then reset to the usual temp,” recommends Kristin. “This will keep the HVAC system from going on during a buyer visit.” Keep the inside temps at a comfortable level — 65 degrees should do it — to give a buyer more incentive to linger.

 

Create a Mood

“Buyers want to imagine themselves living in the home, so be sure to make your rooms appear warm, cozy, and inviting,” Kristin advises. Light a fire in the fireplace. Toss blankets or throws across the couch arms. Set your dining room table and add candles. A few subtle changes can go a long way.

 

Turn On the Sound

Music can also set a mood. Play soft music – light jazz or classical are best bets — throughout the house. Stream from a service like iTunes or Spotify so the music is continuous.

 

Ease Up on the Scents

Many people are allergic to certain scents and deodorizers, and a closed house can intensify these smells, so don’t use plug-in air fresheners or burn scented candles.

 

Don’t let the winter season discourage you from putting your house on the market.  Call 201.939.7500 to speak to Kristin or any of the other knowledgeable sales associates at ERA Justin Realty to determine the best time to sell your home.

Uncategorized January 29, 2021

Jessi Davidson Earns Resort/2nd Home Certification

ERA Justin Realty is proud to announce that Jessica (“Jessi”) Davidson has earned the Resort and Second-Home Property Specialist (RSPS) certification. The RSPS certification is a nationally-recognized certification awarded by the National Association of REALTORS® to real estate professionals who wish to demonstrate and promote – to consumers and their peers alike – their expertise in the resort and second-home specialty.

 

By completing the Resort & Second-Home Specialist (RSPS) Certification Course, Jessi now joins other real estate professionals who specialize in buying, selling, or managing second-homes in a resort, recreational, and/or vacation destination and properties for investment, development, or retirement.

 

“My reasons to pursue this certification were two-fold. I have been looking for a Lake house getaway obsessively for years now. This dream goal is something I tell my family, friends and clients,” explains Jessi. “Lately, I have been hearing they too would like a second home. Some want it as an investment, others just want a place for family to gather. So, when I came across this certification being offered by the National Association of Realtors I jumped on it! I hope to help as many people as I can connect them with their dream homes.”

 

“We are so proud of Jessi for continuing to increase her skill set in order to better meet the needs of our clients,” said Jennifer Darby Metzger, Broker/Co-owner of ERA Justin Realty. “All of the skilled professionals at ERA Justin have hyperlocal knowledge and access to ERA’s global resources to provide the best advice and experience for our buyers and sellers.”

 

“With this certification Jessi adds another level of expertise to the attentive and expert service she provides to all her clients,” added Ron Darby, Broker/Co-owner.

 

Jessi is also a certified ERA Distinctive Properties Specialist and received the Circle of Excellence Sales Award from New Jersey REALTORSⓇ for the last two years. Bergen MagazIne recently ranked her one of the top real estate agents in Rutherford. With the addition of her RSPS certification, Jessi joins the ranks of the many other certified and award-winning professionals at ERA Justin who provide their clients with superior service based on their vast and wide experience and training.

 

At ERA Justin, we hire professionals. If you’re interested in working with a professional like Jessi or any of our knowledgeable and experienced agents, call us at 201.939.7500. 

Uncategorized January 25, 2021

ERA Justin Realty Welcomes Antonella Dininno

ERA Justin Realty is pleased to announce that our exceptional community of agents continues to grow with the addition of Antonella Dininno.

 

Antonella Dininno is a life-long New Jerseyan who is appreciated for her flexibility, patience and professional ability to gracefully manage all the fine details with ease.

 

As a true local, she knows the real estate market and brings high value with her knowledge of buying and selling a home. Much more than understanding this complex and sophisticated business, Antonella has a passion to consistently provide full service and attention. Her mission is to make her clients’ dreams a personal endeavor, and she cites transparency and trust as the foundation upon which she models her business and personal relationships.

 

Antonella is committed to providing top-notch service, building trust and exceeding the needs of clients as she helps them navigate their own home ownership journey. She can help many families with her bilingual abilities in English and Italian, and looks forward to working with clients whether they be interested in renting, buying or listing property.

 

“I am committed to bringing my clients empathy, trust and an enjoyable journey to a new home. That is what I wanted when searching for a place to raise my family and I look forward to providing my clients with the same.  What I love about ERA Justin is that they share these values and provide me with the support, tools, services I need to serve my clients in the manner they deserve.”

 

Ron Darby, Broker/Co-Owner at ERA Justin Realty, expressed his happiness on welcoming a new team member, stating “We are proud to welcome Antonella Dininno to the ERA Justin Realty sales associate family.”

 

“We look forward to seeing her take advantage of all the support ERA Justin Realty provides, including mentoring, marketing support, and the many education opportunities we provide to ensure our agents have the cutting-edge tools necessary to succeed in their careers,” added Jennifer Darby Metzger, Broker/Co-Owner.

 

Want to work with a well-regarded expert who cares about helping you achieve your real estate dreams? To meet with Antonella or any of our experienced real estate professionals to help you with your real estate needs, call 201.939.7500.

ERA Justin RealtyMichelle Korosynew years resolutionssell your home January 4, 2021

NEW YEAR RESOLUTIONS TO HELP SELL YOUR HOME

While 2020 may have been a bad year by many standards, from a real estate perspective, it was a good year.  Interest rates his all time lows, and for home sellers, that meant a great time to cash in.  These trends look to continue into 2021. So if you’re thinking about selling your home next year, Michelle Korosy, a sales associate at ERA Justin Realty Co, has some advice for things you can do now to prepare to list your home.  

 

Get a Pre-Sale Home Inspection

“Hire a home inspector to do a thorough inspection of your home before you put it on the market,” advises Michelle. “This way you have plenty of time to make any necessary repairs and will be ready to go when you want to list.”  This will remove many objections that your potential buyers may have, and you also might benefit from a faster sale and higher selling price.

 

Start Decluttering Now

“Most people have no idea how much stuff they have until they decide to move,” Michelle continues. “Start going through your basement, attic, closets, spare room, and even your main living areas with the aim toward getting rid of everything you don’t want to move to your new home.” Donate it, sell it, give it away or throw it away! You want your home to look as spacious and clean as possible to attract buyers.  

 

Get a Head Start on Packing 

If you don’t need it for the next six months or so, pack it up. Holiday decor, seasonal items, sentimental items that remained after your decluttering — all these can be packed now. “The less things you have in closets, the garage, or the basement, the more spacious your home will look and feel,” advises Michelle.  

 

Find a Good Realtor

Take the time to meet with several real estate agents to make sure you find someone who you can trust to help you through the multitude of technical and financial steps that are necessary. A good real estate agent will also be incredibly knowledgeable about the local market, so you can be sure that you get the best possible price for your home. 

 

ERA Justin Realty Co has received the number one ranking in closed sales in Rutherford for 20 consecutive years, and its agents have on average more than 10 years experience. Ready to sell your home? Contact Michelle or one of the other qualified real estate professionals at ERA Justin by calling 201.939.7500.


 

ERA Justin Realtykristen daviswinter home selling December 18, 2020

 Selling Your Home During the Winter

Winter is here, and while bad weather used to discourage buyers from venturing out, the rise in virtual tours and online showings eliminates many of the old roadblocks that came with home sales in the winter season.  

“The biggest challenge for sellers in the winter season is the weather.  Even the brightest home can look dreary in inclement weather,” says Kristin Davis, a sales associate with ERA Justin Realty.  “With a few simple touches to create a warm and welcoming ambience, your home can still shine during this selling season.”  


Clear a Path

Make sure walkways are shoveled clean of snow, and sprinkle a layer of sand or salt if freezing is a possibility. Place a rubber mat by the door for wet shoes and boots.  

 

Let the Light In

Open the blinds and push back the drapes on every window. Turn on every light in the house, including appliance lights and closet lights. 

 

Keep it Warm

“Heat the house a degree or two warmer than usual before the showing, then reset to the usual temp,” recommends Kristin. “This will keep the HVAC system from going on during a buyer visit.” Keep the inside temps at a comfortable level — 65 degrees should do it — to give a buyer more incentive to linger.

 

Create a Mood

“Buyers want to imagine themselves living in the home, so be sure to make your rooms appear warm, cozy, and inviting,” Kristin advises. Light a fire in the fireplace. Toss blankets or throws across the couch arms. Set your dining room table and add candles. A few subtle changes can go a long way.  

 

Turn On the Sound

Music can also set a mood. Play soft music – light jazz or classical are best bets — throughout the house. Stream from a service like iTunes or Spotify so the music is continuous.  

 

Ease Up on the Scents

Many people are allergic to certain scents and deodorizers, and a closed house can intensify these smells, so don’t use plug-in air fresheners or burn scented candles. 

 

Don’t let the winter season discourage you from putting your house on the market.  Call 201.939.7500 to speak to Kristin or any of the other knowledgeable sales associates at ERA Justin Realty to determine the best time to sell your home.