Supporting small businesses is an extremely important part of setting our community up for success. Local businesses strengthen our economy, provide jobs to our friends and neighbors, reduce environmental impact, and do so much more to benefit the towns and neighborhoods we live in. Wondering the best way that you can support local businesses? See our suggestions below: 

• Shop Local This Holiday Season 

“You can‘t buy happiness, but you can buy local and that’s kind of the same,” – Author Unknown. Whether you’ve already made your holiday wish list or are just beginning to wrap your mind around holiday planning, make the conscious effort to shop locally this season. This magical time of year positions us with an excellent and unique opportunity to support our local shops and owners through purchases and recommendations to friends and family. 

Instead of supporting large corporations, consider heading to your favorite local spots to pick curated gifts for your loved ones. While you are out doing your shopping, why not stop in to ‘be well greens’ and grab a delicious smoothie to keep your energy up! They use only fresh, organic, locally sourced ingredients.

• Leave Positive Reviews 

If you have had a great experience with a small, local business – make sure to share it! Reviews and customer testimonials go a long way to grow a brand and its reputation within the community. A higher number of reviews increases a business’ online presence and visibility and helps to expose it to new customers. While leaving a review only takes a couple minutes of your time, it makes a long-lasting impact on any business.

Extend the practice of leaving reviews beyond the internet through word-of-mouth recommendations. Sharing your favorite local spots with your network serves as a powerful tool that is sure to help a small business grow. 

• Support on Social Media 

Get social with your support! One of the best ways to support a business is through engagement on their social media pages. This provides you a direct line to the business, where you can share your enthusiasm and encouragement of the brand. 

Give your favorite local businesses a follow, engage with their content via likes and comments, and share their posts with your own followers. 

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“From one local business to another, our team at ERA Justin Realty knows how important it is to support and uplift the incredible members and businesses within our local community and so greatly appreciate when our clients and friends do the same for us,” says Jennifer Darby Metzger, Broker/Owner of ERA Justin Realty. “These businesses are owned and operated by our neighbors, family, and friends. They do so much to help our community and deserve all of our support in return!”

Your house could be the #1 item on a home buyer’s wishlist this holiday season!

“We know it is a very hard decision to make,” says Antonella Dininno, Sales Associate at ERA Justin Realty, “Sell your house during the holidays, or wait.” Some people who have already listed actually take their homes off the market during the holidays.

According to Jennifer Darby Metzger, Broker/Owner at ERA Justin, that might be a bad idea. “Many buyers want to purchase a home for the holidays,” says Metzger “And your house might be just what they’re looking for!”

Here are five great reasons to sell your house during the holidays.

1. Less Competition – Even though the supply of homes on the market is increasing, there still aren’t enough homes on the market to keep up with buyer demand. “Plus, all those people who pull their listings during the holidays are making your home more desirable!” says Dininno. 
2. Serious Homebuyers – People who really want to buy a house don’t stop looking over the holidays. Millennials, the largest living generation, is driving the homebuying demand right now and many are eager to make a purchase. “People who look for homes over the holidays are ready to buy and move fast,” says Metzger.
3. Holiday Decor – Your house may look its best when dressed for the holidays, and this is appealing to many buyers. “Many are looking for a place to raise their family, to put down roots,” says Dininno. “Seeing a Christmas tree up could pull at their heartstrings!”
4. Rising Rents – Everyone’s wallet feels it over the holidays, and shelling out money for rent can get irksome when you’re ready to buy. Rents are rising faster than inflation and the stock market, and that’s expected to continue into 2024. “Many renters want to avoid signing another, higher lease in the new year,” says Dininno, “Your home may be their key to leaving renting behind for good.”

There are many reasons to put or keep your house on the market during the holidays. It could be someone’s best gift ever! Ready to sell? Give Antonella Dininno or any of the agents at ERA Justin Realty a call at (201) 939-7500.

ERA Justin Realty is once again partnering with Toys for Tots to collect gifts for less fortunate children this holiday season. 

The campaign kicks off on Thursday, November 9th and continues through Friday, December 15th, which is the final day for drop off at ERA Justin’s main office at 46 Chestnut Street in Rutherford.

“Toys for Tots helps give children in need the magic of the holidays,” said Jennifer Darby Metzger, Broker/Owner of ERA Justin Realty. “We have a long history of giving back to our local community. We are excited to once again team up with our ERA colleagues around the country to ensure that every child experiences the joy of opening a gift this holiday season.” 

Established in 1947, Toys for Tots is the U.S. Marine Corps’ premiere community charity program. The non-profit has hundreds of local toy collection and distribution programs in all 50 states, plus Washington, D.C., Guam, The Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico. This past year, Toys for Tots distributed 24.4 million toys, books and games to more than 9.9 million children in need.

New and unwrapped gifts can be dropped off at ERA Justin’s office at 46 Chestnut Street in Rutherford daily from 9:00am – 8:30pm and weekends 9:00am – 5:00pm. A drop-off box will be available near the front desk. 

If you shop online, you can also help ERA’s Toys for Tots drive by purchasing toys through Amazon and shipping them to our office 46 Chestnut Street, Rutherford, NJ 07070. Please shop early to ensure that all purchases are delivered to this location by December 15th. 

The entire team at ERA Justin Realty is thankful for your support and generosity this holiday season!

Rutherford is gearing up for its inaugural PorchFest, a celebration of music and neighborly spirit. Singers and bands will perform on front porches and front lawns across the Borough of Trees this Saturday, November 4th and ERA Justin is excited to be a host.

“Come on down to our main office at 46 Chestnut Street,” says ERA Justin Broker/Owner Jennifer Darby Metzger, “Our porch is stop #4 on the route!”

PorchFest 2023 is happening thanks to the hard work of The Rutherford Arts Committee. 

It kicks off at 10am in Lincoln Park with a performance by kids you might see in your own backyard! They’re part of Rutherford Rocks, an Arts Committee program for Rutherford’s own musical prodigies in 3rd to 12th grade. The committee says it gives kids a chance to hone their talents while learning to be part of a band.

Many of the musicians performing are local to the area, including the ones appearing at ERA Justin. 

At 3:30pm on ERA Justin’s porch, The Ghost Notes take the stage. The Ghost Notes perform songs that blend Rock ‘n’ Roll and Americana with songs inspired by The Grateful Dead. Then around 4:10, Springwood’s Electric Luau will perform their unique brand of ukulele infused rock songs.  

PorchFest started in Ithaca, NY in 2007 and has since spread across the country. The concept is simple and charming: residents generously offer their properties as stages for local musicians to perform, audiences walk from location to location,  transforming the town into an all-day, open air music festival. 

“Sometimes the best entertainment can be found right on your neighbor’s porch!” says Metzger. “What better way to spend your day than experiencing live music all over town?! Make sure to stop by our porch and let’s make this the first in a long line of PorchFests!”

The rain date is Sunday, November 5th.

ERA Justin Realty Co is proud to announce its 2023 Leaders for the third quarter of the year. The winners are: Fara Espandi, Cathy Vick, Alexa Micciulli, Lee Schilare, Catherine Nimmo, Danielle Sette & Jessi Davidson.

“Despite the ever-changing real estate market, these agents are consistently positive,” said Jennifer Darby Metzger, Broker/Owner of ERA Justin Realty Company. “That positivity shows not only in their sales, but in the satisfaction of their clients.”

The ERA Justin Leaders Award recognizes agents who meet and exceed their goals, their clients’ goals and the company’s goals on a monthly basis. 

“Our core mission at ERA Justin Realty is to provide exceptional service to our clients. These agents are constantly learning and passing their knowledge on to their clients, making sure they achieve their real estate goals with the best deal possible,” says Metzger. “Whether that means getting a great price for their client’s dream home or selling their current home for top dollar. These agents do it all, and it shows in their numbers.”

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 or continue your real estate journey. 

To reach Fara, Cathy, Alexa, Lee, Catherine, Danielle, Jessi or any of ERA Justin’s real estate professionals, call 201-939-7500 or visit their 46 Chestnut Street or 57 Park Avenue locations, both in Rutherford, New Jersey. Visit erajustin.com to see current listings.

ERA Justin is proud to announce its involvement in the creation of the New Jersey chapter of the LGBTQ+ Real Estate Alliance. Sales Associate Julia Dagistanli has been named the group’s first ever Secretary.

The LGBTQ+ Real Estate Alliance is a nationwide non-profit with more than 3,100 members and 50 chapters. “The Alliance is dedicated towards eradicating housing discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity,” says Dagistanli, “I’m proud to be an advocate for this cause.” Dagistanli has been a member of the ERA Justin team in Rutherford since 2002.

The newly formed NJ chapter hosted its inaugural event this month at New Jersey Realtors Headquarters in Trenton. The Lunch and Learn program introduced Julia and the rest of the chapter’s leadership: President Vincent Gray, Vice President Brian Slattery and Director of Membership and Social Media Mikeala Semexant. 

“As a Realtor, I strive to help all people realize their real estate dreams,” says Gray, “As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I am passionate about making sure under-served and often discriminated members of our society receive the fair treatment they deserve.” Gray is part of the John Wuertz Team at Berkshire Hathaway which serves central and southern NJ. 

ERA Justin Broker/Owner Jennifer Darby Metzger joined Dagistanli in Trenton for the event. “The LGBTQ+ homeownership rate is under 50% nationwide. We at ERA Justin hope to be a key part in raising that number here in New Jersey.”

The Alliance reports housing discrimination against members of the LGBTQ+ community begins long before their renting and home buying process begins. “It starts as far back as high school,” says national spokesperson David Siroty, “35% of Alliance members say bullying and discrimination impacted their academic performance and thus their earning potential later in life.”

Guest speakers at the event included the mayor of Trenton, Reed Gusciora and Robert White, 2022 New Jersey Realtors president. White has been an active member of the Monmouth Ocean Regional Realtors since 2002 and is also part of the LGBTQ+ community. He lives in Ocean Township with his husband of 25 years, Andrew DePrisco.

If you are a member of the LGBTQ+ community and looking for a home, Julia or any of our agents can help. Give us a call at (201) 939-7500.

Owning real estate is the main driver in building wealth and financial security. However, there are plenty of other benefits to home ownership… including emotionally.

Control 

“Owning your own home can give you a sense of control,” says Alexa Micciulli, Sales Associate at ERA Justin Realty, “Knowing that your home is truly your own space, and you’re free to do with it as you please… is well-freeing!” 

According to a recent survey done by Fannie May, 94% of those surveyed said “Having Control Over What You Do With Your Living Space” is a top reason to own.

With the exception of Home Owners’ Association (HOA) rules, condominium, co-op, and certain national landmark contingencies that have a say over what can be done to exteriors, homeowners are free to decorate their living space as they see fit. “And when you rent, it’s up to your landlord,” says Micciulli, “Any interior alterations may need to be put back if you decide to move.

Community

“Buying a home allows you to put down roots in a community,” says Jennifer Darby Metzger, Broker/Owner of ERA Justin Realty, “As a homeowner you are invested in your neighborhood. You want to see your neighbors, your schools, your downtown and its businesses thrive.” In the Fannie May survey, 82% said “Feeling Engaged In Your Community” is a motivation to own a home. 90% say “Having a Good Place for Your Family to Raise Children” tops their list of reasons to buy.

Pride

Finally, owning a home can give you a sense of pride unlike any other. “A house is often the biggest purchase a person will ever make. It’s often the result of years of saving and a lifelong dream,” says Micciulli. “Achieving that goal is certainly something to be proud of.”

Bottom Line

If you’re ready to feel the strong sense of control, community, and pride that comes with homeownership, Alexa Micciulli or any of the experienced real estate professionals at ERA Justin Realty can help. Give us a call at (201) 939-7500.

In a tight real estate market, having a pre-approval letter in your hands could be the difference between getting your dream home… and not.

The number of homes on the market is low nationwide. This means you could be competing more for the home you want. This means you have to be ready to act when you find the right house. Having a pre-approval letter is key. So what is it? And how do you get it?

Find a Lender

The first step you need to take is finding a reputable lender. A lender can be known by a few names including mortgage broker or mortgage officer. Essentially, this is the person who is going to be orchestrating your home loan. 

“This person will need a list of documents from you to prove that you’re a safe bet for a loan,” says Winster Ceballos, Sales Associate at ERA Justin Realty. These documents can include pay stubs, bank statements, and any proof of investments. If you need help finding a reputable lender, an experienced real estate agent like Ceballos can give you a recommendation.

Once your lender has all of your necessary paperwork, they can issue you a pre-approval letter. 

What is it?

A pre-approval letter is proof that you can get a mortgage and how much your lender is willing to loan you to buy your future home. “This figure is based on your personal finances, including annual income and how much you can pay in a down deposit,” says Jennifer Darby Metzger, Broker/Owner of ERA Justin Realty, “Print it out or keep it as a file on your phone ready to send to the seller’s agent when you find the right house.”

What it does

“Having a pre-approval letter shows that you are a serious buyer,” says Ceballos, “If you find yourself in a multiple bid situation, having that pre-approval letter could give you a heads up over your competition.” With higher mortgage rates and home prices impacting affordability for buyers right now, a letter shows a seller he or she will not have to waste any time waiting for you to get approved for a mortgage.

Realistic Expectations

For buyers personally, knowing how much house you can afford can help narrow your scope and make sure your expectations are realistic. If you’re ready to buy a home but don’t know where to start, Winster Ceballos or any of the knowledgeable real estate professionals at ERA Justin can help you. Give us a call at (201) 939-7500.

Multiple offers. It’s every seller’s dream, right? It’s wonderful, and guarantees you’re getting top dollar for your house. But choosing the right bid comes with its own set of challenges. Here are some strategies to help sellers win a bidding war.

Work with an Experienced Real Estate Agent

“You shouldn’t go to war without a seasoned veteran on your side,” says Rosemarie Zembryski, Sales Associate at ERA Justin Realty, “You want a seasoned real estate agent who has experience handling several bidders.” Juggling multiple offers is a skill. Be sure to choose an agent with a proven record of handling bidding wars and ensuring a smooth transaction for their sellers.

Carefully Evaluate Each Offer

The highest offer wins, right? Not necessarily! “Money is not always the number one factor to consider,” says Jennifer Darby Metzger, Broker/Owner at ERA Justin Realty, “There is also the buyer’s financing, contingencies and closing date. We help you compare offers, so you can decide based on which buyer best fits your expectations and timeline.”

Be Strategic with Counteroffers

What if all of your offers are all basically the same? Sometimes multiple buyers all make offers around the same price point. If this happens to you, consider making counter offers to the top contenders. “Counter offers encourage prospective buyers to increase their bids so they stand out from the pack,” says Zembryski “Work with your agent to craft strategic counter offers that will fuel the momentum of the bidding war, and narrow down your options faster.”

Stay Calm and Objective

A bidding war can be an emotional rollercoaster. But if you navigate it adeptly, there can be a big payoff at the end of the ride. So, stay calm, be strategic and trust the process. 

Bottom Line

Navigating multiple offers on your home can be tricky, it’s best to have an experienced real estate professional guiding you. Rosemarie Zembryski or any of the knowledgeable agents at ERA Justin can help you tackle the challenges that come with a bidding war and achieve top dollar for your home sale. Give us a call at 201-939-7500.