ERA Justin RealtyFara Espandihome repairs when sellingRon Darby December 7, 2015

ERA Justin’s Fara Espandi Reports On Recommended Work Before Selling

Fara Espandi, an ERA Justin Realty continuing Leadership Circle award recipient says, “First impressions are important when preparing to place your home on the market for sale.” 
 
ERA Justin’s Fara Espandi Reports On Recommended Work Before Selling
 

Sellers often order pre-sale inspection reports. This inevitably raises the question of how much, if any, of the recommended work should be done before selling.  Ideally, any defect that would be hazardous to agents and buyers who preview the property during the sale process should be corrected. An example is a trip hazard that might cause someone to fall. In addition, to maximize your return from the sale, you should repair defects that adversely affect how the property looks. Buying decisions are typically determined upon a first inspection and first impressions. 
 
Fara Espandi, an ERA Justin Realty continuing Leadership Circle award recipient says, “First impressions are important. So, if the fence or entry porch are in disrepair and look shabby, repair them. If the exterior paint is peeling, repaint and retouch as needed. You get positive results when you repair a defect and improve appearance by doing so.  For example, let’s say that the wood pest (also known as termite) inspector finds damage under the linoleum in a kitchen, treat and repair. If the linoleum is worn and outdated, you’ll do better on the sale if you replace the floor covering with a new, trendier one. In the course of doing this, the wood damage can be repaired. The result is that the house shows better and a defect is eliminated–two benefits for the price of one.
You certainly can’t be expected to rebuild your home in order to sell it. Nor is this a sensible thing to do economically.

When structural elements are in need of repair and you haven’t the time or money to repair them, it’s a good idea to get repair estimates and make these estimates available to prospective buyers before they make an offer. This way, you’re in control of the process and can find reliable contractors or engineers who will give you reasonable and not exorbitant estimates.

It can be unsettling to a buyer to discover that the roof is in poor condition or the foundation needs work. Most buyers will have no idea how much it will cost to make repairs. Fear of the unknown makes people anxious, which isn’t a good frame of mind for someone who’s trying to decide whether to buy your home.

As reported by Dian Hymer of Inman News, a pre-sale home inspector of an Oakland, Calif., home recommended that an engineer be consulted about a foundation that had settled. The seller hired an engineer who made a proposal for the repair. The cost was $20,000–not an insignificant number. But, it wasn’t $40,000 or $50,000 as an inexperienced buyer might imagine.  If you choose not to make major repairs before selling, this should be reflected in your list price, especially if you have competition from other sellers.”

Ron Darby Broker added, “At ERA Justin Realty the words, There is a difference in real estate companies is more than a phrase.  We live it every day.  Because of our daily priorities, we proudly received the prestigious ERA world-wide Commitment to Excellence Award, from ERA corporate.  All across the nation, the most sought award that can be achieved in business is the J.D. Power & Associates award.  Only outstanding business entities are honored and receive it.  ERA Real Estate was the past recipient of Highest Satisfaction for First Time Home Buyers and Sellers Among Full Service Real Estate Firms.  For these reasons ERA Justin Realty should be your buying and selling Realtor of choice.” 
 
All of the ERA Justin Realty full service sales professionals can be reached at either of their two Rutherford offices at 118 Jackson Avenue and 57 Park Avenue.  By office phone (201) 939-7500, (201) 438-0588 or (201) 438-SOLD.  Additional cutting-edge real estate technology information awaits you at www.ERAJustin.com and www.ERAJustinRealty.com.

55 Kip CenterCathy VickERA Justin Realtyfestival of trees and wreathslee schilareRosemarie Zembryski December 4, 2015

ERA Justin Realty Participates in Kip Center Holiday Festival

ERA Justin Realty’s Rosemarie Zembryski, Lee Schilare and Cathy Vick put the finishing touches on their Kip Center Charlie Brown’s Karaoke Christmas submission to assist in their fundraising activities.
 
ERA Justin Realty Participates in Kip Center Holiday Festival
 
Rutherford:  It was just fall, but within a wink and a blink a chill is now in the air, the malls are all decked out with holiday displays, shoppers are out and about and it’s also beginning to look a lot like Christmas at Rutherford’s Kip Center, the areas recreation and nutritional citizen center, where area residents enjoy daily activities and lunch programs. Holiday trees, decorative wreaths have brought much cheer to the Kip Center located at 55 Kip Avenue for its annual Festival of Trees and Wreaths, as well as much needed donations.
 
Holiday displays abound with participants who were as busy as holiday elves getting ready for the upcoming Kip Center drawing, when dozens of decorated trees and wreaths will be given to winners through their annual holiday drawing. The event helps raise needed donations used to fund the varied activities at the center.
 
Assisting in creating holiday cheer with the 2015 ERA Justin Realty Charlie Brown’s Karaoke Christmas  are Realtor salespersons Rosemarie Zembryski, Lee Schilare and Cathy Vick who are the firm’s coordinators for the 2015 charitable event and recently presented the unique Charlie Brown theme  designed with special selected Karaoke Grand Piano, distinctive Christmas Tree and much love.
 
They said, “Our submission is our effort to help make a difference for the Kip Center and our community. In order to reach a wide range of individuals and spread our spirit, we dedicate our time to a wide range of charities. We feel that one person making a difference to another can lead to many people making a difference in society. We all have the opportunity to help create positive change. You might not be able to change the entire world, but at least you can change a small part of it, for someone. Our focus is to help bring financial benefits to the Kip Center seniors. We’re happy to report that our past entries have been cited by the Kip Center as ‘Most Creative In the Business Category,’ for past years and ERA Justin Realty again is hopeful for mention in 2015.
 
Ron Darby, ERA Justin Realty broker co-owner said,  “Tis the season for giving. By helping the Kip Center raise money with ERA Justin Realty’s donation of our holiday wreath and others you are helping that one or many in the community. Stop by the Kip Center for a chance to win!  It’s always a win-win situation locally and you will be helping our area seniors immensely. Contact the Kip Center for details on their charitable drawing.”
 
 You may read about the firm’s fundraising activities and more at their websites, www.ERAJustin.com and www.ERAJustinRealty.com, or phone any of their Realtor salespersons at (201) 939-7500, (201) 438-0588 or (201) 438-SOLD if you would like to assist in their ongoing fundraising activities.
Adrian Trideldressing your homeERA Justin RealtyMichelle Korosypricing you homesuccessful home sale December 2, 2015

ERA Justin Realty: Tips on Dressing and Pricing Your House For Strong Showings

Adrian Tridel and Michelle Korosy, two top teammates and real estate working partners at ERA Justin Realty share tips on first impressions as well as information for pricing your house correctly when readying for a sale.

ERA Justin Realty: Tips on Dressing and Pricing Your House For Strong Showings

As important a landmark as buying a home is in people’s lives, you’d be surprised at how much of it can turn on snap decisions. If you’re selling a house you’ll have to put careful thought into customers’ first impressions, because many sales will be made or lost before they reach the front door – or as soon as they walk through it.  Michelle Korosy and Adrian Tridel, two top teammates and real estate working partners share tips as well as information for pricing your house correctly when readying for a sale.
ERA Justin Realty’s Korosy offers a menu of possible ‘first impression’ areas that an owner may want to consider. “First consider curb appeal – the feeling customers get from the upkeep of the house and grounds, and how comfortable this makes them imagining themselves as a resident. You want to do everything you can to make them see your house as their house, both outside and in.  A new paint job is an investment that could be considered if it more than pays for itself, and neat landscaping – trimmed shrubs, new flowers – puts your prospective buyers in just the right frame of mind. Inside, kitchens and bathrooms should be in sparkling condition – these rooms are known to be what makes up many home-seekers’ minds. Removal of odors like pet smells and smoke will lessen distractions for customers you want focusing on your home’s possibilities, and clearing of clutter is crucial.”
Tridel added, “The less belongings you have crowding your rooms and closets, the bigger the home will appear, and the easier it will be for potential buyers to envision placing their own possessions there. Put some things in storage if you need to, or hold a garage sale to help cut down on some of the build-up you were going to clear out for moving anyway. For buyers picturing themselves in your home, it’s also good to present the house in as general taste as possible – personal memorabilia, collectibles, and eccentric wall colors and furnishings should go out with the clutter. Repainting rooms in a neutral white also helps convey the sense of spaciousness.  Clean windows, fresh flowers, and other small details with big impact – they’re what you want to remember. From major improvements to subtle touches that tip the scales in your favor, the features of a house that we often take for granted can be the ones that determine your home selling success. According to the National Association of Realtors®, curb appeal alone accounts for half of all home sales.”
Korosy continued, “A little effort now saves you a lengthy process later. First impressions will expedite the sale and securing the services of a qualified Realtor® will make it all the surer. One of our ERA Justin Realty real estate professionals can guide you in all the above matters and more, from supplying a checklist of presentation tips, to recommending affordable painting contractors from his or her industry connections, to helping you rearrange the furniture. Whatever it takes, we can give you confidence that, for some buyer soon, the showing of your home will be love at first sight.  We also will provide a current home market analysis  (CMA) with information in determining the true value of a house and the right asking price. In the end, however, the homeowner should decide on a price that he or she feels is competitive and consistent with the price at which other houses in the area have sold. Our CMA report for our Sellers is truly comprehensive in all aspects.  Complete with color photos and detailed information, it make pricing easier for those planning a sale.  Truly, there is a difference in real estate companies, and our details will make the difference. We ask Buyers and Sellers to compare.  We believe that in order to exceed expectations of what ERA Justin Realty is about, we don’t offer just real estate basics, we try to be as comprehensive as possible.  In that way, we know that our Buyers and Sellers will hold us all in the highest regard.”
ERA Justin Realty proudly received the prestigious ERA world-wide  ‘Commitment to Excellence Award’, selected from all ERA real estate firms.  All across the nation, the most sought award that can be achieved in business is the ‘J.D. Power & Associates’ award.  Only outstanding business entities are honored and receive it.  ERA Real Estate was the recipient of ‘Highest Satisfaction for First Time Home Buyers and Sellers Among Full Service Real Estate Firms.’ For these reasons ERA Justin Realty should be your buying and selling Realtor of choice.


For more information on CMAs and dressing your house for a good showing, consumers can reach the ERA Justin Realty sales team at either of their two Rutherford offices at 118 Jackson Avenue or 57 Park Avenue. By phone at(201) 939-7500(201) 438-0588 or (201) 438-SOLD.  Additional real estate information is also available at the firms 1000’s of homes websites at www.ERAJustin.com and www.ERAJustinRealty.com.

BCB BankBenjamin EckmanElder lawERA Justin Realty November 22, 2015

ERA Justin Realty Wins Accolades For Elder Law-Estate Planning Seminar

ERA Justin Realty Wins Accolades For Elder Law-Estate Planning Seminar
Rutherford:  ERA Justin Realty as part of its ongoing community service seminars, recently held a successful Elder Law Estate Planning Seminar with National Academy Elder Law attorney, Benjamin Eckman, Esq. 
Once announced, reservations were fully filled with residents of Bergen and Passaic counties. ERA Justin Realty Senior Specialists from the firm coordinated the event which was hosted at BCB bank of Rutherford.
Jennifer Darby Metzger ERA Justin Realty broker co-owner stated,  “We recognize the importance of this seminar topic because it impacts each and every one of us in one way or another.  Once assembled did all then have greater understanding of the common issues that face us all, as our attendees questions from all areas of the room shared commonality on the topics.  Mr. Eckman spoke on asset protection, wills and trusts, probate and power of attorney, nursing home and long-term care insurance, Medicare, Medicaid and guardianships.” Attendee comments included, “We’d love more seminars.”  “It was excellent and thank you.”  “The seminar was very informative. “We quickly made an appointment with Mr. Eckman.”  “We found the seminar informative, your staff very pleasant and I thank you for your attentiveness.”
This was the second in a series of Elder Law seminars brought by ERA Justin Realty Co. with a repeat seminar to be planned for Spring 2016 because of such an overwhelming request by those who could not attend our last seminar.
“As a strong industry leader and a national Top-100 firm, ERA Justin Realty is underscoring the critical role of community information,” added Ron Darby, ERA Justin Realty  broker co-owner.
The firm is nearing announcement of an additional seminar for first-time homebuyers, which will include guest speakers who will explain many new programs offered in this fast changing borrowing market.
“There is a difference in real estate companies,” Metzger continued, “Presenting community seminars, we believe, is another way to exceed buyers and sellers expectations of what ERA Justin Realty is about, as we don’t offer just the basics. In fact, our buyers and sellers have put their reviews in writing. We have on file for the asking, Real Estate Results In Writing, our report of nearly 800 reviews and testimonials from our very satisfied buyers and sellers.  No other area real estate firm offers that.”
The ERA Justin Realty full service team of professionals can be reached at either of their two Rutherford offices at 118 Jackson Avenue and 57 Park Avenue, by office phone (201) 939-7500(201) 438-0588 or (201) 438-SOLD. Also view 1000’s of homes at their websites at www.ERAJustin.com andwww.ERAJustinRealty.com.
Allyson KubsERA Justin Realtyrenters become buyersRon DarbyWayne Kubs November 9, 2015

ERA Justin Realty: Kubs Team offers, How Renters Become Buyers

ERA Justin Realty: Kubs Team offers, How Renters Become Buyers

Nothing compares to the feeling of having a place to call home. At one time or another, however, most of us have felt frustration at seeing hard-earned money go into rent every month rather than a more permanent house payment.

According to Allyson and Wayne Kubs familiar with rental and investment properties through ownership, “Renting is most people’s first step toward homeownership, but what do you need to do to realize the dream of owning a home? ERA Justin Realty’s Kubs team shares important insight for those who want to become a homeowner. Sometimes, it’s not the regular rent-money obligations but other expenses that are the main obstacle in saving. A whole debt-counseling industry has arisen to guide consumers in getting out from under what they owe. Smart saving, not depriving yourself, just ensuring stability and enjoyment over the longest term involves many moves both major and simple, and can help prepare you for that first down payment.

On the simple end, rediscovering home cooking (and enjoying the leftovers as brownbag lunches) can amount to significant savings as compared to regularly dining out. On a higher level of financial planning, establishing a household budget and sticking to it, including a specific amount set aside for savings every month can get you to your home affording goals sooner than you might have imagined.

You may also want to meet with a counselor who can negotiate a lower rate and set a sensible structure for your repayments on credit cards while advising you how to ease dependence on them. This not only gets you on your own financial feet, but helps keep your credit rating intact for the very home loan you hope to someday secure.

There are additional ways to start working toward homeownership. Some sellers will enter into a rent-to- buy agreement, in which part of the regular rent is considered an installment of the home’s down payment, which, once built up, can help you obtain financing. Low income renters may also qualify for federal Section 8 vouchers which are paid to the landlord, subsidizing your rental expenses and helping you save for a permanent home.

Just as some renting options allow you to set funds aside, some types of purchases can help defray your costs even as you fulfill the stepped-up obligations of homeownership. Pooling resources with other buyers to occupy a two-family home could be one; buying such a home by yourself and renting one half of it could be another.

Even if your economics remain challenging, there are low down payment mortgages, and other forms of financing for special circumstances, available to buyers who meet the right criteria. Our ERA Justin Realtor sales agents can help you navigate through these options, accessing financing programs for qualified buyers. He or she can also identify what government help might be available, and generally counsel you on your readiness to be a buyer and on what else you might need to do to get there. If you consult the right sources and seek common-sense strategies, then your every move in the renter’s world can be pointing you home.”

Allyson concluded, “ Our team at ERA Justin Realty have the answers or available just a phone call way. Because of our daily priorities, we’ve proudly received the prestigious ERA global Commitment to Excellence Award.”

Ron Darby, ERA Justin Broker added, “All across the nation, the most coveted award that can be achieved in business is the ‘J.D. Power & Associates’ award. Only outstanding business entities are honored and receive it. ERA Real Estate was the recipient of ‘Highest Satisfaction for First Time Home Buyers Among Full Service Real Estate Firms.’ Award. For these reasons ERA Justin Realty should be your buying and selling Realtor of choice.”

Allyson, Wayne and all of the ERA Justin Realty full service Realtor sales agents can be reached at either of their two Rutherford offices at 118 Jackson Avenue and 57 Park Avenue. By office phone (201) 939-7500, (201) 438-0588 or (201) 438-SOLD. View 1000’s of homes at their website at www.ERAJustin.com and www.ERAJustinRealty.com.

ERA Justin RealtyHome improvementsJoana IlescuRon DarbyRutherford real estate November 7, 2015

ERA Justin Realty’s Joana Ilescu Reviews Best Dollar-For-Dollar Improvement Returns

ERA Justin Realty’s Joana Ilescu Reviews
Best Dollar-For-Dollar Improvement Returns
It would be nice if you could count on getting one dollar back when you sell your house for each dollar you invested in renovations. Most people hope for more than a dollar-for-dollar return. In reality, many improvements return less than the amount invested.
For example, a Cost Versus Value Report,  published by a past National Association of Realtors report, and reported by Inman News, that nationally, the average percent recouped on a bathroom remodel was only 90.1 percent. It was 88.1 percent for a deck addition, 81.2 percent for a family room addition, and  79.4 percent for a major kitchen remodel. These percentages vary throughout the country and are only suggested with variations.
“Does this mean that remodeling is a waste of your time and money? No, but  don’t go about a renovation in a haphazard fashion. It’s important to do your due diligence investigations before embarking on any remodel project, just as you would if you were considering buying a home. There are many variables to consider,” stated Joana Ilescu Realtor salesperson with ERA Justin Realty Co.
“First, consider that the figures quoted are national averages. The amount recouped on a remodel depends in large part on where you live. There’s significant variability from one city to the next, according to the NAR report.  For instance, nationally, homeowners recouped approximately 90 percent on a bathroom remodel. But, the amount recouped for the same job was 109.7 percent in New York City, 100 percent in San Francisco, and only 61.3 percent in Denver, on average.  The return on a remodeling investment will also depend on the value of your home, particularly in relationship to the value of homes in your neighborhood. If you have a small home in a neighborhood of larger, more expensive homes, you could come out ahead by enlarging your home. However, it’s important to keep costs in line so that you don’t end up over-improving your home for the neighborhood. Buyers tend to discount a home that’s priced above the value of other homes in the neighborhood. Before remodeling, it’s also important to consider your competition. In some areas, certain remodeling projects are taken for granted. For instance, if you’re in an upscale neighborhood of older homes where most homeowners have remodeled their kitchen and bathrooms, you may be penalized price-wise by the market if your home is outdated. In areas where home prices are rising rapidly, you’re likely to recoup more on your remodel investment than you would during times of meager appreciation. With this in mind, you’re more likely to recoup your investment over the long term.” Joana added.
Ron Darby, ERA Justin Realty broker co-owner added,  “There’s a subjective factor that can’t be overlooked when remodeling. This factor is often referred to as pride of ownership. And, don’t discount the value of creature comfort. There’s a certain sense of well being to be derived from a home that suits your lifestyle while aptly reflecting who you are. Despite these factors, from an investment standpoint, it makes sense to consider resale value before making an investment in a major renovation. This doesn’t mean that you should remodel your home with someone else in mind. But, if you’re aim is to recoup as much of your investment as possible, it’s wise to consider home buyer preferences in your area. If your remodeling is not in tune with what buyers want, it could actually decrease the value of your home. Also keep in mind that while trends vanish quickly, quality and good taste are timeless.  The NAR Cost Versus Value Report was based on professional judgment rather than on actual sales data. Therefore, the report is somewhat subjective. However, it does point out the importance of carefully considering before remodeling.”
Joana concluded,  “All across the nation, one of the most coveted awards that can be achieved in business is the ‘J.D. Power & Associates’ award.  Only outstanding business entities are honored and receive it. ERA Real Estate was the recipient For Highest Satisfaction for First Time Home Buyers Among Full Service Real Estate Firms.”
Joana and all of the ERA Justin Realty full service Realtor sales persons can be reached at either of their two Rutherford offices at 118 Jackson Avenue and 57 Park Avenue.  By office phone (201) 939-7500(201) 438-0588 or (201) 438-SOLD. View 1000’s of homes at their websites at www.ERAJustin.com and www.ERAJustinRealty.com.
ERA Justin RealtyJennifer Darby MetzgerJennifer SullivanjoinsRonald Darby October 31, 2015

JENNIFER SULLIVAN JOINS ERA JUSTIN REALTY


JENNIFER  SULLIVAN JOINS ERA JUSTIN REALTY

Jennifer Sullivan previously from upstate NY, Hoboken and now a resident of Rutherford for six years is married to Dennis Sullivan.  She is a busy mom to their triplets Molly, Madeline and Tess.
Enjoying her successful 5 years affiliation with Stella & Dot in sales, and responsible for more than 2,000 client relationships training and coaching a team of 100 sales representatives, Jennifer knew it was time to blend her knowledge and success to relationships with ERA Justin Realty.
Jennifer successfully serves the buying and selling needs of those she knows and about to meet, through her outreach to new clients and customers who she will work with. Her previous 10 years experience in the Digital Advertising industry included Media Manager with Digitas.com and National Ad Sales Director at Realtor.com. Responsible for managing national accounts and working on both the buying and selling side of the business, prepped her for handling high stakes negotiations with confidence and professionalism. Jennifer is excited to bring all of her high tech/high touch sales experience to ERA Justin Realty
“Dealing honestly, openly and having pride in the service you provide, your customers and clients will respect and have trust in you,” said Jennifer.
 Jennifer Darby Metzger, broker co-owner said, “Jennifer Sullivan thrives in her sales and service oriented role where she can be face-to-face with people and help them with their needs. She’s a social person and enjoys getting to know people from all areas of life; so perfect for the real estate industry. We know her to be self-motivated. She truly is passionate in getting things done timely and professionally.
 Ron Darby, broker co-owner added, “As our industry advances in a technical sense, Jennifer is tech-savvy and has a desire to modernize the client relationship as needed by using all tools available. She stays current and in touch with the next generation of millennial buyers, a necessity as our industry advances.”
 “There is a difference in real estate companies,” added Jennifer.  “ERA Justin Realty is a highly respected and reputable community real estate agency serving Bergen, Passaic, Hudson and Essex counties. Their leadership and staff is top-in-class and provides a positive culture which made my decision so easy to be part of their team.”
 Darby concluded“We are proud to know that Jennifer joined ERA Justin Realty because of our reputation as one of the leading Bergen County real estate firmsWe create outstanding marketing for all of our homes for sale as well asstrong marketing for all of our Realtor agents. We have created a powerful ERA Justin Realty brand, known and loved throughout the area since 1950 and we grow with recommendations and referrals from our buyers and sellersProudly, we offer our publication for review, ‘What People Are Saying’, including nearly 800 reviews and testimonials from our buyers and sellers.”
Metzger added, “We are pleased to have Jennifer join us. She will focus on customer relocation, first-time and repeat buyers, sellers and listening.  Yes, listening is what we do at our firm.  When one listens to our buyers and sellers needs and requirements and then follow-up with the smallest details, success will come easy for Jennifer.”
ERA Justin Realty is continually honored as a ‘Top-100’ ERA firm from all ERA offices and is the recipient of the ‘ERA Commitment to Excellence’ award.  For these reasons, agents both newly licensed and experienced who join us have the potential to begin strong earnings immediately.  Our ‘Winning Edge Teammate Advantage’ package has been structured so agents have a sense of pride in receiving strong opportunities and other benefits which they deserve in this new age of real estate.”
Jennifer can be reached at either of their two Rutherford offices at 118 Jackson Avenue and 57 Park Avenue.  By office phone (201) 939-7500 and (201) 438-0588.  Also view 1000’s of homes at www.ERAJustin.com andwww.ERAJustinRealty.com. Reach her by cell phone at (201) 290-8834.
1st 3 quarters winner2015ERA Justin RealtyERA Justin Realty Leadership CircleJennifer Darby MetzgerRon Darby October 26, 2015

ERA Justin Realty Award Achievers Exceed Expectations

ERA Justin Realty Award Achievers Exceed Expectations
Ask the ERA Justin Realty 1st 2nd and 3rd quarters 2015 award achievers, how important proper house pricing is and the answer you will most likely hear over and over again is realistically. Ask any of these  ‘Leadership Circle‘ achievers who will provide a complimentary Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) and you will have the answers to your real estate questions.  They include Glenn Elliot, Peggy McLaughlin, Cathy Vick, Kristen Davis, Morgan DePalma, Julia Dagistanli, Ilene Harpuder, Grace Tirrito, Carol D. Calamari and Fara Espandi.
Jennifer Darby Metzger, co-owner broker stated, “Throughout each quarter we proudly present the ‘Leadership Circle’ award to those teammates who focus and exceed the expectations of their sellers and buyers.  These fine professionals awarded had earned accolades throughout the 2015 quarters.  It is an ongoing team effort, which makes us a market leader throughout Bergen, Passaic, Essex and Hudson counties. 
For our sellers and buyers, we have published ‘What People Are Saying’ a presentation of nearly 800 testimonials and reviews regarding the services that we offer.  A copy is available for review for the asking. Additionally, these sales professionals focus on the inventory of homes that we have for sale, knowing exacting details, so they can provide our sellers and buyers with the service they deserve.”
Ron Darby, broker co-owner added, “If you are thinking of selling your house in the near future and want to know for how much it might sell, then you should contact one of our ERA Justin Realtor salespersons and request a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) to determine its fair market value.  The fair market value of a house is the highest price an informed buyer will pay.  A homeowner’s asking price is the advertised price of a house when it goes on the market and may be slightly higher than the fair market value because it is assumed that some negotiation will be necessary to reach an agreement with a buyer. To get an estimate of the fair market value, a homeowner can call our ERA Justin Realty sales team. Our service is provided free of charge and without obligation.  In conducting a CMA, our ERA Justin Realty sales professionals have access to a wide array of information, such as databases containing recent listing and selling prices of similar homes in the neighborhood, and how long these houses took to sell. The resulting analysis can help a homeowner understand how today’s market impacts the price of the house, and it will provide a realistic figure of fair market value.  If a house is then put on the market, our sales professionals will use the CMA to help the homeowner establish a selling marketing program. The CMA information is very helpful in determining the true value of a house and the right asking price. In the end, however, the homeowner should decide on a price that he or she feels is competitive and consistent with the price at which other houses in the area have sold.  Our CMA report for our sellers is truly comprehensive in all aspects.  Complete with color photos and detailed information, it makes pricing easier for those planning a sale.  Truly, there is a difference in real estate companies, and our details will make the difference. We ask buyers and sellers to compare.  We believe that in order to exceed expectations of what ERA Justin Realty is about, we don’t offer just real estate basics, we try to be as comprehensive as possible.  In that way, we know that our buyers and sellers will hold us all in the highest regard.  Proof of our abilities for our clients and customers shows in these fine award achievers, honored during the first three quarters of 2015.”

For more information, consumers can reach the ERA Justin Realty sales team at either of their two Rutherford offices at 118 Jackson Avenue and 57 Park Avenue. By phone at (201) 939-7500, (201) 438-0588 or (201) 438-SOLD.  Additional real estate information is also available at the firms 1000’s of homes websites at www.ERAJustin.com and www.ERAJustinRealty.com
BCB BankBenjamin EckmanElder lawERA JustinJennifer Darby Metzgersenior citizen October 23, 2015

Elder Law-Estate Planning Seminar Co-sponsored by ERA Justin Realty and BCB Bank

Elder Law-Estate Planning Seminar Co-sponsored by
ERA Justin Realty and BCB Bank
 
The mature years can be the best time of life – retirement may be nearing, the kids are grown and you can enjoy the results of your hard work and smart choices with all your loved ones. Now is a good time to be a senior – the U.S. Census Bureau says that the mature population is expected to jump nearly 80 percent by the year 2025.
 
These times can bring unique concerns not previously encountered. The prospects of moving for the first time in years or even decades, selling a beloved family home, and navigating related tax issues are all special considerations that call for special service.
 
For reasons like these, ERA Justin Realty and their agents are inviting area residents as their guests to an Elder Law – Estate Planning Seminar with guest speaker Benjamin Eckman, Esq., a member of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys. Topics will include, Asset Protection & Preservation, Wills & Trusts, Retirement Planning, Probate & Power of Attorney, Nursing Home Matters, Long-Term Care Insurance, Grandparents’ Rights, Medicare & Medicaid, Guardianships & Conservatorships, followed by a Questions & Answers Session.
 
Jennifer Darby Metzger, ERA Justin Realty Co-owner said, “All are invited at no cost or obligation.  The seminar will be held Wednesday Evening November 11, 2015, 6:00—8:00 PM at BCB Bank, 190 Park Ave., Rutherford, NJ being co-sponsored by BCB Bank and ERA Justin Realty, Rutherford, NJ. For Reservations Call (201) 935-6200, Extension 290. Light refreshments will also be served.  Space is limited so please reserve early.”
 
ERA Justin Realtymorgan depalmawinter home selling myths October 13, 2015

ERA Justin Realty Edge Before Winter Home Selling


 ERA Justin Realty Edge Before Winter Home Selling


“As the leaves begins to fall and the weather gets colder, homeowners often shudder at the thought of selling their home in the Winter, out of concern that there will be fewer buyers, their home will look less attractive and will command a lower selling price than during the Autumn. This can be substantial thought.  Following are the 4 most common myths as well as the truth about selling a home now or during Winter,” stated Morgan DePalma an ERA Justin Realtor sales agent.

DePalma continued, “Myth #1 If I wait until Winter into next Spring to sell my house there will be more buyers and more competition for my home that I put up for sale.

Truth: There really is less consideration of  markets anymore, since many markets are interest rate driven. Interest rates are currently low and that is what motivates many buyers seeking their new home now with closing prior to the Christmas holidays.

You’ll likely get more foot traffic through your home in the Autumn. In the winter you may have fewer showings, but many tend to be serious and qualified buyers because fewer people like to spend an afternoon browsing through homes when the weather is cold, rainy or snowy.  You still have an extra advantage with Autumn showings.

Myth #2 My house will sell for a higher price next Spring since the economy has been improving, I’ll wait to get an even higher price for my house in 2016.

Truth: The current home prices of 2015 may not continue to escalate in 2016. No one can forecast ahead. We know what the economy is like now. With political worldwide uncertainties, there is no way to predict what lies ahead in the Spring of 2016. A significant benefit of Autumn into Winter home selling is that there is less inventory at this time of year, which translates into less competition amongst listings on the market. Remember, it only takes one buyer to purchase a house, and sellers establish the price that they want. Houses that are well priced, decorated, updated and in move-in condition always move rapidly.

Myth #3 My house will look better next Spring when the trees have leaves and the flowers are blooming.

Truth: Remember, the playing field is level in this Autumn season when you choose to sell your home. In the Spring, everyone’s house has blooming flowers and trees. Do not discount the benefits of Autumn selling. Autumn decorations, Thanksgiving and the wonderful aroma of food, roaring fires in the fireplace and scented candles are very attractive to buyers.

Myth #4 Since I need to move in the Winter, I will wait until then to sell my house.

Truth: Home sellers with flexibility in Autumn can sell and set a closing date in Winter, which can benefit both the seller and the buyer. The seller, knowing that their house is sold, can go and buy a new house, with less pressure. The buyer may benefit by having the necessary time to sell their old house.”

Sellers interested in learning more about selling their home in the late Fall/Winter can contact the ERA Justin Realty sales professionals at both of their Rutherford office locations at 118 Jackson Avenue and 57 Park Avenue, for a no obligation Customer Analysis Report.  A written report that provides the market value of a house, those houses that have sold, market trends and other information that will aid a seller in properly pricing their house is available for the asking.  Phone the ERA Justin Realty team at (201) 939-7500(201) 438-0588 or (201) 438-SOLD.  ERA Justin Realty is a “Top 100” ERA real estate firm worldwide and they have received the prestigious “Commitment to Excellence Award” for service to their sellers, their buyers and the communities they serve.