Every November 11th, our country sets aside the day to honor and recognize the men and women who have put their own lives in danger for the betterment of the United States. “In the real estate world, their service is honored every day, year round in ways many vets may not know about,” says Winster Ceballos, Sales Associate at ERA Justin Realty, There are financial programs dedicated to helping veterans become homeowners with little to no money down on their first house. Here is a look at some options.

The VA Loan Program – Zero Down Payment

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers one of the most significant benefits to veterans and active-duty service members: the VA Loan. “This loan requires no down payment, making it an attractive option for first-time homebuyers who may not have substantial savings,” says Jennifer Darby Metzger, Broker/Owner at ERA Justin Realty, “Not only does the VA Loan eliminate a traditional down payment, it also requires no PMI.” Private Mortgage Insurance is an extra monthly payment tacked on to mortgages with less than a 20% down payment. No PMI can shave hundreds of dollars off a veteran’s monthly payment. Since veterans can finance 100% of their purchase price, they can save tens of thousands of dollars up front. There is a VA funding fee at closing, but that can be rolled into the mortgage payment.

Down Payment Assistance Programs (DPA)

Many state and local governments offer Down Payment Assistance (DPA) to help veterans with their home purchases. “These programs provide grants or low-interest loans that can cover part or all of the down payment,” says Ceballos, “The best part is repayment of those loans could be waived down the road.” DPA programs often have special provisions for veterans, which can include forgivable loans if the veteran stays in the home for a specified period.

Happy Veterans Day

These programs and more make every day a Happy Veterans Day for our men and women in uniform, if they know how and where to get the funding. A knowledgeable real estate agent can help veterans identify the appropriate programs and make applications. If you’re a veteran interested in becoming a homeowner, Winster Ceballos or any of the agents at ERA Justin can help. Give us a call at (201) 939-7500.

If you are in the market for a new house, Halloween is the ideal day to house hunt. “That’s house hunt, not haunt, but it might feel a little like that,” says Alexa Micciulli, Sales Associate at ERA Justin Realty, “When else can you sneak a peek inside someone’s house without looking suspicious?” jokes Micciulli.

Scope Out The Town

“If you know where you’d like to move, take your kids trick or treating in that neighborhood,” says Jennifer Darby Metzger, Broker/Owner at ERA Justin Realty, “In just one fun night you could learn so much. Is it safe? Are the streets well lit? Are there sidewalks? You will get to see so many elements to your new home you might not otherwise see until after closing.” Pay close attention to how well maintained the homes and yards are. Well kept homes speak volumes about dedication to communities. 

It’s also a great time to get to know potential neighbors. Are the houses decorated with porch lights shining? Or are the curtains drawn with “Keep Out” signs posted? How do the homeowners interact with you when they open the door?

“If your kids are patient enough, Halloween opens up opportunities to talk with homeowners,” says Micciulli, “While your kids pick out their candy, strike up a quick conversation. Tell them you’re interested in moving. Ask about the schools if they have kids.”

Is it Kid Friendly?

Halloween is a perfect opportunity to get a sense of how child-friendly your chosen town is or isn’t. Take the time to watch how kids and families interact with their friends, other homeowners and town shopkeepers who often hand out candy on Halloween.

“We first came to Rutherford the afternoon of Halloween in 2015 and we never looked anywhere else,” says Kathleen Foster of Ridge Road, “I was five months pregnant with twins. My eyes welled up as we watched literally hundreds of costumed kids spill out of the schools and onto Park Avenue. Okay, maybe it was hormones. But, we knew we had found our home.”

Have Fun

“Why not put on a costume yourself?” says Micciulli, “Have some fun reliving the Halloweens of your own childhood while imagining the future Halloweens of your family’s.” A grown up going door-to-door in costume with a bunch of kids is not such an usual sight on Halloween. “Maybe you’ll get to eat your kids’ candy!” adds Metzger.

If you’re ready to dress up and ring doorbells in a new town, Alexa Micciulli or any of the local agents at ERA Justin Realty can help you get acquainted. Give us a call at (201) 939-7500.

ERA Justin Realty Co is proud to announce its 2024 Leaders Award winners for the third quarter of the year. The winners are: Alexa Micciulli, Julia Dagistanli, Lee Schilare, Catherine Nimmo, Danielle Sette, Jessica Davidson and Carol D. Calamari.

“These agents are consistently positive despite an ever changing real estate market,” said Jennifer Darby Metzger, Broker/Owner of ERA Justin Realty Company. “That positivity shows not only in their sales, but in their ever-present optimism and that leads to happy and satisfied clients.”

ERA Justin’s Leaders Award recognizes agents who routinely meet and exceed their goals and the company’s goals on a monthly basis. Leaders are named and honored quarterly.

“I look forward to watching the continuing growth of these women, as well as our whole team,” says Metzger, “Their dedication to learning and evolving in business makes them clear leaders everyday.”

ERA Justin is a leader in Southern Bergen County residential real estate. With more than 30 trained and experienced real estate professionals going beyond expectations to meet their clients’ needs, ERA Justin is the ideal spot to begin a location transition. 

To reach ERA Justin’s team of stellar real estate professionals, call 201-939-7500 or visit their 46 Chestnut Street or 57 Park Avenue locations, both in Rutherford, New Jersey. Visit www.erajustin.com to see current listings.

The past few years were kind to homeowners. Across the country, millions of homeowners are sitting on $17 TRILLION dollars worth of equity. The average American homeowner gained an average of $24,000 in just 2023 alone.

What should they do with it? Let it sit?

“It depends,” says Soila Columbie, Sales Associate at ERA Justin Realty, “If you’re lucky enough to be sitting on that kind of money, it’s nice to have options.”

Here is a look at what your home equity can do for you.

Repairs or Renovations

“If you’re considering selling within the next few years,” says Jennifer Darby Metzger, Broker/Owner of ERA Justin Realty, “it might make sense to use some to make necessary repairs or remodeling. Any renovation will increase your home’s value even more.”

Most homeowners agree. Some 55% see home improvements as a good reason to tap home equity, according to a survey by Bankrate. Here’s why: Borrowing from your home equity costs less than personal loans. “The latest average interest rate on a home equity line of credit was a little over 9%. While that’s higher than current mortgage rates, it’s a far cry from 24% on a credit card!” It’s also better than personal loans, which have an average interest rate of 12% right now. 

The most profitable interior improvement is adding or refinishing wood floors. “You will get 100% of your investment back plus 20% to 50% more,” says Metzger.

Buy a Second Home

For some homebuyers, it can make sense to use your home equity to buy a second home. “If interest rates continue to drop, it may make sense to buy that shore house you’ve always wanted, especially if your primary mortgage is paid off,” says Columbie, “For home equity lines of credit you only have to pay the interest on money you use, which can make a vacation home financially viable.” You will also get all of your money back if you install a new roof.

Leave it Alone

For other homeowners, there’s no need to touch that money. “Using home equity should make you more money, or get you out of debt,” says Columbie. If you’re tempted to use it to fund a $10,000 vacation – don’t. If you have to finance your vacation, you can’t afford it. Leave your home equity alone to grow.”

Bottom Line

There are times to use your home equity and times you should not. If you’re looking to renovate or use your equity to buy another home, Soila Columbie or any of the experienced agents at ERA Justin Realty can help figure out the best way to tap your equity. Give us a call at (201) 939-7500.

In today’s real estate market, it can be hard to keep track of home prices. Up-to-the-minute  interest rate changes and fluctuating inventory levels can create both opportunities and challenges for buyers and sellers alike. “It can be hard to know when to make a move,” says Rosemarie Zembryski, Sales Associate at ERA Justin Realty, “Buyers might be wondering if they’re offering more than they should. Sellers might be concerned they’re not getting top dollar. This is why having a trusted real estate agent can make all the difference.”

For Sellers: Maximizing Profits 

“Home prices are cooling, but they’re not falling,” says Jennifer Darby Metzger, Broker/Owner at ERA Justin Realty. “Home price growth is slowing because they’re moderating from the abnormal highs the past few years. What we are seeing now is normalizing.” For sellers, a real estate agent familiar with your area can help price your home to sell in any market. “Pricing too high can lead to a stagnant listing, while pricing too low could mean leaving money on the table,” says Zembryski, “A knowledgeable agent can offer pricing strategies, staging advice, and marketing plans tailored to attract qualified buyers.”

For Buyers: Minimizing Mortgage Payments

“A limited number of homes coupled with higher interest rates has made it tough for first time homebuyers, but the good news is that’s changing,” says Metzger, “As mortgage rates drop, borrowing money literally becomes less expensive. This means you can borrow more for a smaller monthly payment. “This means you can afford more home, but in many areas you still have to act fast,” adds Zembryski. 

“Homebuyers should get pre-approved for a mortgage and come armed with a letter stating how much they can afford when they visit open houses,” says Metzger. “This shows sellers you are serious and ready to make a move.” A skilled real estate agent can help buyers find houses whose listings may not be widely available, negotiate favorable terms and avoid overpaying. “It’s this kind of inside knowledge that helps buyers achieve their real estate goals.”

Why Trust Matters

Whether buying or selling, trusting your real estate agent is paramount. “This is the person who is going to hold your hand as you navigate lawyers and contracts and closing costs,” says Zembryski, “Whether buying or selling, having an advocate who you trust can make all the difference.” If you’re ready to buy or sell, Rosemarie Zembryski or any of the agents at ERA Justin can help. Give us a call at (201) 939-7500.

Selecting the right real estate agent is critical when buying or selling a home. The right agent can make the process more efficient, and even more profitable. But with so many agents out there, how do you find the best one? Here are some tips to help you find a partner who will guide you successfully 

Check Their Reputation

“Start by asking your neighbors,” says Mary Iannaccone, Sales Associate at ERA Justin, “Gather recommendations from people you trust and narrow down your list based on their experiences.” An agent with a strong online presence and plenty of positive reviews is a good indicator of someone who consistently delivers excellent service. You should also look for an agent who specializes in the type of home you’re interested in. For example, if you’re looking for a historic home, find an agent experienced in that niche. 

Look for Local Market Expertise

“A great agent will be knowledgeable in both national trends and local market conditions,” says Jennifer Darby Metzger, Broker/Owner of ERA Justin, “They’ll be able to clear up any misconceptions you might hear on the news and help you understand how your local market compares.” Their knowledge should shape the strategy they develop for your sale or purchase, ensuring it’s tailored to the current conditions in your area. Additionally, their familiarity with local neighborhoods and amenities can provide valuable insights that you might not find online.

Communication and Availability

“You need an agent who listens to your needs, answers your questions promptly, and keeps you informed every step of the way,” says Iannaccone.  You can meet with several agents in person before you make your decision. Interview them! This gives you a sense of their availability and lets you see how they communicate. If you prefer texting and need evening showings, make sure your agent is comfortable with that too.

Trust Your Gut

Trust your instincts.  “If you feel a strong connection or a lack of rapport with an agent, it’s important to listen to that feeling,” says Metzger. Choose someone you feel at ease with and who inspires confidence. 

Bottom Line

By following these tips, you can select a real estate agent who will make your buying or selling process as smooth as possible. If you’re ready to find the right partner for your real estate journey, Mary Iannaccone or any of the experienced agents at ERA Justin can help.  Give us a call at (201) 939-7500.

There is so much talk about mortgage rates and how a rate drop makes borrowing money payments lower. Shaving off a percentage or two may not seem like a big deal, but it can add up to thousands of dollars per year.

Let’s take a look at the numbers. 

The Impact of a 1% Drop

Let’s examine the savings based on a $400,000 loan. Suppose you have a 30-year fixed mortgage at an interest rate of 7.5%. The monthly payment (excluding taxes and insurance) would be approximately $2,797. 

If the interest rate drops by 1% to 6.5%, the new monthly payment would be around $2,528. That’s a reduction of $269 per month.

Over the course of a year, this amounts to a savings of $3,228. “That is a significant amount of money that could pay for a new fridge,” says Michelle Korosy, Sales Associate at ERA Justin Realty,  “Or a splurge on a fancy handbag.”

Over the entire 30-year period of the mortgage, the total savings would be about $96,840.

The Impact of a 2% Drop

If the interest rate drops by 2% from 7.5% to 5.5%, the monthly payment on a $400,000 loan will be around $2,271 (excluding taxes and insurance). This is a reduction of $526 a month! That adds up to $6,312 a year. 

“More than six thousand dollars makes the difference between going on a great vacation or staying home,” says Jennifer Darby Metzger, Broker/Owner of ERA Justin Realty, “Over the life of your 30 year mortgage you’d save a whopping $189,360 dollars. Imagine how much that would grow invested in a retirement  fund instead!”

Bottom Line

The amount of monthly savings you will accrue depends on the specifics of your mortgage, such as the remaining balance, the term of the loan, and how many years you have left. “However, these examples illustrate what a 1-2% rate drop translates to in real money terms,” says Korosy, “Whether you use it for a second home or spend it on a Birkin bag is up to you!” 

If you are looking to assess the amount of equity in your home or estimate a monthly payment on a new home,  Michelle Korosy or any of the knowledgeable agents at ERA Justin can help. Give us a call at (201) 939-7500.

Selling your home this autumn? Staging with the season’s decor may help buyers fall in love with your house.

“Fall happens to be a fantastic time to market and sell your house,” says Laura McCarthy, Sales Associate at ERA Justin Realty, “If you have a fireplace, make it a focal point. Who doesn’t want to imagine themselves warming up by a crackling fire when the weather is crisp?”

Clean out your hearth, arrange some logs, and consider lighting a fire during open houses and showings, safely of course. 

No fireplace? No problem. Another surefire way to cozy up a home in autumn is to decorate a section of your home with candles, to add a warm flickering glow. “Bonus points if you have scented candles with hints of cinnamon or pumpkin,” says Jennifer Darby Metzger, Broker/Owner of ERA Justin Realty, “Just make sure they’re not too pungent. Overwhelming smells of any kind can be a turn off.” Flameless LED candles are a safe and acceptable alternative if you’re concerned about open flames.

Spice up your space with seasonal decor. “Add an autumn wreath on the front door, arrange a few pumpkins and gourds on the front steps,” says McCarthy, “Inside, drape an extra throw blanket on the sofa. You want to make your home inviting, a place where buyers will want to put their feet up and relax.”

There is plenty of decor to work with in the fall months. Swap out lightweight summer linens and bedding for plush, textured blankets and pillows in rich browns and warm golds. 

“Proper lighting is a must during the fall months,” says Metzger, “Because the sun sets earlier, make sure your home is well-lit during showings. Open up all the curtains and blinds during the day, and use warm-toned LED light bulbs at night to create an inviting atmosphere.”

Finally, don’t forget your yard.  “Fall foliage can transform your outdoor space into an enchanting setting,” says McCarthy, “Just make sure your yard is maintained and looks well kept. Set up an outdoor seating area. Allow buyers to imagine themselves outdoors having their morning coffee or cocoa by an evening bonfire.”

If you are looking to take advantage of the fall season to sell your home, Laura McCarthy or any of the experienced agents at ERA Justin can help. Give us a call at (201)939-7500.

Rutherford’s annual town-wide yard sale is Saturday, September 21st. This means it is the ideal time to declutter!

“Whether you are looking to sell your house soon, or just get a handle on the overwhelm,” says Kristen Davis, Sales Associate at ERA Justin Realty, “An annual purge is great for the mind, body and soul.”

“We always recommend that our clients purge their homes before listing,” says Jennifer Darby Metzger, Broker/Owner at ERA Justin Realty, “Buyers want to be able to envision themselves in your space and they can’t do that if your clutter is everywhere. But on top of that, decluttering is good for a seller’s mental outlook. Out with the old, in with the new.”

Decluttering doesn’t mean your entire home needs to be immaculate immediately. It can be done in small steps. Some people start by removing one or two items a day.

“Don’t look at your house as a whole. Break it down room by room, surface by surface if you have to,” says Davis. Delegate different sections of the house to different family members. 

It is up to you to decide what stays and what goes. The best way to do this is to make three piles: Keep, Trash, and Sell/Donate. Start by going through your house with a garbage bag and focus on trash first. “This will make a noticeable dent in your clutter pretty much right away,” says Metzger. 

Next walk around with a laundry basket picking up things that are out of place and put them back where they belong. “Don’t put things away one at a time, unless you’re just looking to up your step count! Collect it all in a basket then go room to room.”

Your final pile is for things you want to sell. “The Rutherford town-wide yard sale is an ideal time to put out things you no longer want and make some money while you’re at it,” says Davis. “Just don’t bring things that don’t sell back into your house. Leave them on your porch and call a donation organization like the Vietnam Vets, who will come pick it up.”

Bottom Line

Decluttering is a great way to make room in your life for new things to enjoy, whether it be a new home, a new couch or a new neater outlook on life. If you would like help paring down, Kristen Davis or any of the agents at ERA Justin can help connect you with a professional organizer. Give us a call at (201) 939-7500 or email us at info@ERAJustin.com.

More good news for the homebuyers! Not only are mortgage rates lower, the number of houses on the market is higher!

“This is a win-win situation for anyone looking to buy a home right now,” says Julia Gulden Dagistanli, Sales Associate at ERA Justin Realty. “It means you’re more likely to find the house of your dreams for a monthly payment you can afford.”

According to Realtor.com there are nearly 37% more houses on the market compared to this same time last year. 

“If you gave up on your home search because there was so little to choose from,” says Jennifer Darby Metzger, Broker/Owner at ERA Justin Realty, “Now is the time to start looking again.”

One of the main reasons for this is: With more inventory comes more room for negotiation due to more choices. “Increased housing supply spells good news for consumers who want to see more properties before making purchasing decisions,” says Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at the National Association of Realtors (NAR).

“This doesn’t mean there are too many houses on the market,” adds Dagistanli, “Which is good news for sellers. Prices are not expected to crash.” Despite so much growth in inventory, the number of homes on the market are still far below where they were in the pre-pandemic years. There are 29% fewer homes actively for sale now compared to 2017-2019.

“That’s to be expected,” says Metzger, “It is going to take a while for the country to get back to the typical number of homes for sale, but in the meantime any increase in inventory is a positive development.” While the most growth in the country is seen in the South and West, the Northeast is also rebounding with New Jersey seeing more homes added to the market month after month across the state.

“Real estate is always hyper local,” says Dagistanli, “It varies from town to town, state to state. The best way to find out if it’s the right time for you to buy or sell is by contacting a trusted local agent.”

Bottom Line

Mortgage rates are down and the number of houses for sale is up. This means homebuyers are much more likely to find exactly what they are looking for at a price they can afford. Inventory is increasing across northern New Jersey. If you’re ready to jump into house hunting, Julia Gulden Dagistanli or any of the agents at ERA Justin Realty can help. Give us a call at (201) 939-7500.