Independence Day is a time to celebrate our freedom. For many people, true independence means owning their own home.  If you’re tired of paying rent and want to achieve the American Dream of homeownership, here are a few tips to get started.

Get Your Finances in Order

“Before you can start looking for a home, you need to make sure your finances are in order,” says Carol D. Calamari, Sales Associate at ERA Justin Realty,  “This means you need a good credit score, a steady income, and a down payment saved up.” 

• Credit Score: Lenders will use your credit score to determine whether you’re a good risk. Aim for a credit score of at least 680, which is the average score for most homebuyers.
• Income: Lenders will also want to see proof of a steady income. You’ll need to provide pay stubs, tax returns, and bank statements. So start collecting them now.
• Down Payment: The down payment is the amount of money you’ll pay upfront for your home. The larger your down payment, the smaller your monthly mortgage payments will be.

Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage

“Getting pre-approved for a mortgage is the next most important step in the process,” says Jennifer Darby Metzger, Broker/Owner of ERA Justin Realty. “Your lender will give you a letter stating how much you can safely afford to spend on a home.” 

 Start Looking for a Home

Once you’re pre-approved for a mortgage, you can start looking for a home. There are a few things to keep in mind when you’re searching for a home:

• Location: Consider your commute to work, your proximity to schools, shops, restaurants and entertainment.
• Size: Make sure the home is the right size for your needs. 
• Condition: Inspect the home carefully for any repairs that may be needed.

Make an Offer

When you find a home, you’ll need to make an offer. “The seller may accept your offer, reject it, or counteroffer,” says Calamari, “A knowledgeable real estate agent will examine comparable homes and make sure your offer is competitive enough to be the winning bid, but not more than the home is worth.”

Close on the Home

Once your offer is accepted, you’ll need to close. This involves signing the mortgage documents and paying the closing costs. Once you sign on the dotted line, you’ll be the official owner! Now you can start enjoying all the benefits of homeownership, like building equity, getting tax breaks, and making your home your own.

If you’re ready to break free from rent this July, give Carol D. Calamari or any of the agents at ERA Justin Realty a call at 201-939-7500.

The current real estate market has some members of Gen Z and younger wondering if they will ever be able to afford a home. “Between inflation, rising home prices and high mortgage rates, they think all hope is lost,” says Antonella Dininno, Sales Associate at ERA Justin Realty, “But it isn’t. There are ways to achieve it. You just need to know where to start.”

Down Payment Options

“If scraping together a down payment is the main concern,” says Jennifer Darby Metzger, Broker/Owner of ERA Justin Realty, “Come see us. There are more than 2,000 down payment assistance programs designed to make homeownership obtainable.” A knowledgeable real estate agent can help you figure out if you’re eligible for any local or federal down payment assistance programs. “Plus, chances are you won’t need to put down a full 20%,” adds Metzger.

Live with Loved Ones

“It may not be the number one thing you want to do,” says Dininno, “But many young people are moving back in with Mom and Dad in order to save up for a house.” According to the Pew Research Center more than 50% of 18 to 29-year-olds are currently living with their parents. In 2020, that number was at 47%. Today it is up to 52%. It hasn’t been this high since the end of the Great Depression.  However, it works. According to the National Association of Realtors, 30% of Gen Z homebuyers are moving directly from a family member’s home to a home of their own. “It helps to ditch the rent and save up,” says Metzger.

Cast a Broad Net

When it’s time to start looking, it helps to cast a broad net. “Rural and suburban areas are in general more affordable than the city,” says Dininno, “While the city may be more fun, you get a bigger bang for your buck the farther out you go.” Now that so many employers are allowing hybrid work from home situations, the cost and time of commuting is less of a factor for many Gen Z and younger.

Be Flexible

While you’re looking, remember to be flexible. “Chances are you won’t buy your dream home right away,” says Metzger. “It might be a condo or a townhome you share with roommates for a while. But equity is equity and no matter what you buy, real estate is always a worthwhile investment.”

Bottom Line

Yes, the real estate market is tight between high prices and high interest rates, but achieving the American Dream of homeownership is obtainable. Antonella Dininno or any of the agents at ERA Justin Realty can help make your dream a reality. Give us a call at 201-939-7500.

It’s the first day of summer!  Temperatures are heating up, the sun is staying up late and the kids are getting out of school. It’s the perfect time to move!

“Summer is traditionally one of the best times to move,” says Alexa Micciulli, Sales Associate at ERA Justin Realty.  There are several reasons for this. Here is a list.

The Weather

“The temperatures may be too hot for some people,” says Jennifer Darby Metzger, Broker/Owner at ERA Justin Realty, “but the hot weather also usually means less rain, and rain is the last thing you want on your moving day!” Unlike winter which can make moving difficult with slippery roads and freezing temperatures, the dry, warm weather in summer is ideal for moving upholstered furniture and cardboard boxes. It ensures that your stuff won’t get wet and moldy. “Of course there are still rainy summer days, but there are fewer than in spring.”

The Longer Days

There are literally more hours in the daylight during the summer. “The sun stays bright well into the night giving you more time to get all of your stuff out of one house and into another,” says Micciulli, “Who doesn’t want that? It’s especially helpful if you are making your move without the help of professional movers, which can also save you money.” Moving companies can sometimes cost more in summer due to the higher demand for their services.

The Yard Sales

The warmer, sunnier weather makes for the perfect way to get rid of the stuff you don’t want to pack: a yard sale! Summer is peak yard sale season and plenty of pickers are out bright and early because your junk just might be their treasure.

The Kids

Finally, the kids are out of school. “Though they might be underfoot on moving day itself,” says Metzger, “Summer is the ideal time to move your family. It’s less likely to disrupt your routine, plus moving during summer break is especially helpful if you have to switch schools.”

If you’re a family looking to move to a new house this summer or empty nesters ready to make room for a new family to move in, Alexa Micciulli or any of the experienced agents at ERA Justin Realty can help. Give us a call at (201) 939-7500.

When people decide to move, it usually corresponds with a major life milestone. “They’re usually getting married, divorced, or downsizing after kids move out,” says Winster Ceballos, Sales Associate at ERA Justin Realty. “But these days we are adding another reason: To make money.”

According to a new survey from Realtor.com 24.4% of those surveyed say they recently sold their home in order to make a profit, making financial reasons more of a driving factor than family right now. Family reasons came in second at 23.7%.

#1 Make a Profit

According to the property data provider ATTOM, homeowners who are choosing to sell are really cashing in. ATTOM’s data shows home sellers made an average of $121,000 in profit in a typical sale in 2023, generating a 56.5% return on investment.

“That is a significant amount of money,” says Jennifer Darby Metzger, Broker/Owner of ERA Justin, “Much of that was due to skyrocketing prices during the pandemic. Prices are still rising today, just not as fast.” 

Continued appreciation– especially during the typically hot real estate market in spring and summer months– is good news for sellers. “Any increased profit can help offset the costs of moving whether they buy again right away or rent for a bit,” adds Ceballos, “Many empty nesters are cashing in now and choosing to rent while waiting for mortgage rates to drop.”

#2 Family Reasons

Kids, Mom, Dad, Grandma and Grandpa are still important factors in deciding when to move and where. 

“Baby boomers might be downsizing and moving away to be closer to their adult children and grandchildren,” says Ceballos, “They might sell to an extended family. Maybe a couple sandwiched between raising their kids and caring for their parents. Real estate is the circle of life.”

Whether you’re selling for pure profit or to finance the next step on your family’s journey, Winster Ceballos or any of the experienced agents at ERA Justin can help you get top dollar for your home. Give us a call at (201) 939-7500.

If you’re shopping for a new house, you may be hearing a lot about how high mortgage rates are. Well, here is some good news: They could start dropping soon. The next interest rate decision from the Federal Reserve (aka The Fed) is expected next week. 

Last month, The Fed left the Federal Funds Rate unchanged at 5.25%-5.50%.  That in turn kept the average rate for a 30 year fixed mortgage over  7%.  If you’re wondering why they’re two different numbers and what they mean for you… Here’s a quick primer and what to expect next.

The Fed

The Federal Reserve is holding its next policy meeting on June 11th and 12th. “This is the Fed’s next chance to trigger lower mortgage interest rates,” says Soila Columbie, Sales Associate at ERA Justin Realty, “They could stay the same, but at least they’re not expected to go any higher right now.” 

The Fed started raising the Federal Funds Rate in early 2022 in an effort to slow down the pace of inflation. “The Federal Funds Rate is how much it costs banks to borrow money from each other,” explains Jennifer Darby Metzger, Broker/Owner at ERA Justin, “The Fed’s decision on the Federal Funds Rate percentage doesn’t determine mortgage rates directly, but mortgage rates respond up or down when it changes.”

When Will Mortgage Rates Come Down?

“If it doesn’t happen next week, the overall consensus among experts is that mortgage rates should still come down this year, just later than originally expected” says Columbie, “But that doesn’t mean you should wait to buy.”

“Trying to time the market isn’t necessarily the best course of action,” adds Metzger, “If your ideal home is available right now, don’t stress about the economy. Interest rates change.You can always refinance when mortgage rates drop.  As we like to say: you date the rate but marry the house.”

Bottom Line

Whether you’re looking to buy your first home, upgrade to your next or downgrade to a smaller one but unsure how much you can afford due to mortgage rates, Soila Columbie or any of the knowledgeable agents at ERA Justin can help you figure it out. Give us a call at (201) 939-7500.

Over the past few years, potential homebuyers have faced a significant challenge: a limited number of homes for sale nationwide. However, according to new data from Realtor.com, those days may be over. Inventory is up now three years in a row.

“We are not back to pre-pandemic 2020 levels,” says Rosemarie Zembryski, Sales Associate at ERA Justin Realty, “But so far in 2024, there have been nearly twice as many homes for sale than there were in early 2022.”

Does This Mean Finding a Home is Easier? 

The simple answer is both yes and no, and it depends upon where you want to live. According to Realtor.com, in February 2024 there were 15% more homes for sale in the U.S. than there were in February 2023. “This uptick could shake up the housing market, particularly here in New Jersey, especially if we keep seeing more and more ‘For Sale’ signs,” says Jennifer Darby Metzger, Broker/Owner at ERA Justin, “This increased inventory is great, but nationwide there is still a shortage and competition remains high.” 

“It’s important to be informed and realistic about the real estate market,” adds Zembryski, “The housing deficit accumulated over the pandemic years. It won’t disappear overnight. But this upward trend is certainly a step in the right direction.”

What Does This Mean for Potential Buyers?

While you may have more homes to choose from than in previous years, don’t expect an abundance of choices. Real estate is inherently local, and an experienced agent can offer invaluable insights into the specific inventory situation in your desired location. This is why it’s so important to partner with a trusted local agent. “We have relationships with other real estate agents across New Jersey and in other states,” says Metzger, “This helps us keep tabs on new inventory and hop on houses for our clients as soon as they hit the market.”

Bottom Line

If you’re contemplating buying a home in the current market, it’s essential to stay informed and prepared. Rosemarie Zembryski or any of the knowledgeable agents at ERA Justin can help you find the home of your dreams, no matter the number of homes on the market. Give us a call at (201) 939-7500.

When it comes to staging your house to sell, less is more. 

“You want fewer everything,” says Michelle Korosy, Sales Associate at ERA Justin Realty, “Fewer family photos on the piano, fewer throw blankets in the living room, fewer coffee mugs in the kitchen cabinet.” 

One way to achieve this is by decluttering. “By clearing out all of the unnecessary items in your home,” says Jennifer Darby Metzger, Broker/Owner of ERA Justin Realty, “you’re clearing the way for buyers to imagine themselves at home.” Here are some of Jennifer and Michelle’s top reasons why you should declutter and remove extraneous furniture before your first open house.

Maximize Space

Too much furniture can make even the most spacious homes feel cramped. By removing unnecessary items, you can showcase the true potential of your space. This allows potential buyers to visualize their own belongings in the home and appreciate its size and functionality. 

Sense of Order

A cluttered home can give the impression of poor maintenance and neglect, which can deter potential buyers. On the other hand, a clean and organized space conveys a sense of care and attention to detail. When buyers walk into a clutter-free home, they feel a sense of calm. Decluttering helps eliminate distractions and allows the focus to be on the property’s overall appeal.

Enhance Visual Appeal 

In today’s digital age, most buyers begin their search online. A clutter-free space appears more photogenic, with better lighting and a clearer view of each room. Captivating visuals can generate more interest in your property.

Streamline the Moving Process

By decluttering before listing your property, you’ll have fewer items to pack and transport, saving time, money, and energy. It can also help you prioritize what is truly necessary, making it easier to move.

Bottom Line

Remember, less is more when it comes to real estate. So, roll up your sleeves, start sorting, and enjoy how a clutter-free home increases your chances of a successful sale. Need help getting started? Michelle Korosy or any of the experienced agents at ERA Justin can help. Call (201) 939-7500.

Spring has sprung! There are signs of it everywhere. Flowers are popping up alongside “For Sale” signs planted on front lawns across America. 

“As the weather warms up, the real estate market heats up too,” says Mary Iannaccone, Sales Associate at ERA Justin Realty, “Spring is the busiest home buying time of the year.”

If you’re getting ready to list your home for sale, it’s important to make sure your house is in tip top shape. Here are some tips on how to get your house market-ready fast.

Declutter & Organize

“Buyers need to be able to visualize themselves living in your house,” says Jennifer Darby Metzger, Broker/Owner of ERA Justin Realty, “That’s hard to do when the house is filled to the brim with your stuff. So your first step should be to declutter and organize.” Start by going room by room, packing up all your family photos and throwing out or giving away things you don’t need. You want to create a sense of space and openness. Plus, less clutter makes rooms look bigger and easier to stage and decorate.

Deep Clean

“Next you want to give your kitchen and all bathrooms a thorough scrubbing,” says Iannaccone. Pay attention to details like grout lines, and re-caulk if yours is cracking. Sparkling clean kitchens and baths make a great first impression on buyers. 

Maintain Your Yard

“Curb appeal is extremely important as many buyers will do a drive-by before making an appointment to see the inside of your home,” says Metzger, “So keep your lawn mowed, bushes trimmed and weeds pulled. A well maintained yard shows buyers your home has been cared for and loved.” Professional landscaping can also help homes sell faster and for more money.

Find an Agent

“A skilled listing agent is your partner when selling your home,” says Iannaccone, “We are there to guide you every step of the way from pricing to closing.” An experienced agent will make sure your home is professionally photographed and looking its best when it hits the market. If you’re looking to put your home on the market this spring,  Mary Iannaccone or any of the agents at ERA Justin can help. Give us a call at (201) 939-7500.

It’s the time home buyers and sellers alike have been waiting for… spring!

It’s time to fling open the doors and usher in the busiest time of the year for real estate.   

Here is what to expect.

Increased Activity

“Spring brings a surge in real estate activity for a few reasons,” says Laura McCarthy, Sales Associate at ERA Justin Realty, “Longer, warmer days literally mean more hours in the day to show homes in the best light – natural light! Sellers who have been waiting for winter to pass are now ready to list and buyers are ready to look.” 

More Inventory

As more sellers enter the market during spring, inventory levels rise. “This gives buyers a wider selection of homes to choose from, making it more likely they’re find the perfect match,” says Jennifer Darby Metzger, Broker/Owner of ERA Justin Realty, “However, it’s worth noting that while inventory grows, well-priced and desirable properties can still sell quickly.”

Higher Demand

Spring is a popular time for families to look for a new home because it’s easier to move kids during summer break from school. “Putting an offer in on a new home in spring gives families enough time to close and move before the start of the new school year,” says McCarthy. Increased demand can mean competition for buyers and potentially multiple offers and quicker sales for sellers.

Price Appreciation

The combination of increased demand and limited supply during the spring months often leads to price appreciation. Sellers may benefit from higher sale prices as buyers compete for desirable properties. 

Mortgage Rates

“While prices are increasing, mortgage rates are continuing to slowly but surely go down,” says Metzger, “This helps buyers offset their monthly payments and make it possible to afford a higher priced home.” 

Bottom Line

The spring real estate market brings both higher demand and a greater inventory of homes for sale. It’s crucial for both buyers and sellers to stay informed about local market conditions and work with professional real estate agents who can guide them through the process. ERA Justin can help. Give us a call at (201) 939-7500.

“Your house doesn’t have to be in pristine condition in order to sell it,” says ERA Justin Broker/Owner Jennifer Darby Metzger, “We can help you clean it out or explore other options.”

Metzger has personal experience dealing with top-to-bottom clean-outs, having done it for someone close who passed away leaving behind three homes that were stuffed to the rafters with paperwork, clothing, and even brand new items still in their bags along with original receipts. 

“We will never say ‘This house is too messy. We can’t list it,’” says Metzger. “We’ve seen it all.”

Shows like Hoarders are bringing awareness to this psychological condition that affects two to five percent of the American population, but hoarding is nothing new. According to the National Association of Realtors, the first recognized hoarders were brothers Homer and Langley Collyer who died in Harlem in 1947. They left behind a mansion filled with 120 tons of junk, including Model T car parts and 14 grand pianos.

While cases like that are extreme, the thought of decluttering or packing up can feel overwhelming to a homeowner especially if they’ve been in their homes for decades. “These items are sentimental to them,” says Metzger.

“Something that looks like trash to you may be very important to the seller emotionally or financially,” says Metzger. “We treat these clients with compassion and understanding as we help them shed what is no longer needed in order to  move on to the next phase of their lives.”

Extreme cleaning professionals, and psychologists alike, suggest renting a storage space for sellers who are not quite ready to part with particular items. If they’re in a hurry to sell, a storage space buys them time to revisit their belongings and decide what to keep, what to donate, what to give away to relatives and what to trash.

Formulating a plan around the clutter is critical in the selling process, “Whether it’s referrals for clean outs, estate sales or selling your home “as-is” with the contents, we have done it before and are here to help!”

If you’re ready to sell your longtime home but don’t know where to begin paring down a lifetime of accumulation, an experienced ERA Justin real estate professional can help. Give us a call at 201-939-7500.