Danielle Sette Joins The ERA Justin Realty Team of Realtor Agents

Danielle Sette Joins The ERA Justin Realty Team of Realtor Agents

"As a resident of Rutherford for the past ten years, I have fallen in love with the small town sense of community that Rutherford and our surrounding communities have to offer. I have lived in several small towns in Northern New Jersey, but our local communities are definitely home to me. I have school aged children and cannot boast enough about the quality of education we enjoy locally. The small town community feel, the wonderful downtown shops and amazing restaurants are what makes this area so desirable to many. The accessibility to all major roads, highways, skyline views, NYC buses and trains just to name additional advantages of this area."

Coming from a procurement/customer satisfaction background, Danielle has transferred to the ERA Justin Realty family where her focus will be meeting and exceeding the needs of her buyers and sellers.

“With our knowledge of Danielle and her focused work ethics, she is a natural fit at ERA Justin Realty,” said ERA Justin Realty Broker Co-owner, Jennifer Darby Metzger. She continued, “During her free time she enjoys family and town sponsored events. After many years in corporate procurement and strategic sourcing in the retail field, she took time off to focus on raising her family. She resides with her husband, their two children,and their pet cat Aerie.

As a Rutherford homeowner and Lyndhurst landlord, she has always taken interest and been drawn to the market and happenings in our communities. She has channeled her experiences in corporate procurement, contract implementation and precise negotiation skills providing thorough detailed service to anyone with whom she works.”

Danielle stated, “My business background with strong contract management and customer service, coupled with my determination to exceed buyer and seller needs, will prove successful at the completion of each real estate transaction. With so many real estate firms to choose from, I chose ERA Justin Realty because of its success and warm and welcoming office. They are a long time area real estate firm with thousands of satisfied customers and clients. They are community focused with involvement in many charitable causes and events that I look forward to being part of in the future.

My personal time is also filled as a Junior Woman's Club of Rutherford volunteer doing community service since 2010 and editor for the JWCR Reporter Newsletter. I am the current President of the JWCR with 40+ membership and have been a board member since 2014. I’m also active with my daughters Daisy Troop, PTA and donate my time and provide social support to breast cancer patients undergoing treatment. We enjoy vacationing with friends at the Down East coast of Maine and we are active members of Our Lady of Assumption Church in Wood-Ridge.

ERA Justin was my number one choice in selecting an agency, as there is a great team of educated, respected agents with a stellar reputation for honesty and loyal service in this community. The level of training and the ability to be mentored by the best in Northern New Jersey is just a few reasons in choosing a career with ERA Justin.

I pride myself with attention to detail and being thorough with my work. I apply this to everyday life and would absolutely extend this personal philosophy to every client."

Danielle is also a member of the Real Source Association of Realtors, New Jersey Association of Realtors, and the NJMLS. She is a graduate of Ocean County College, Montclair State University and Kovats Real Estate & Insurance Schools.

Jennifer concluded, “We are pleased to have Danielle with us. Her knowledge will aid our entire sales team and her buyers and sellers will quickly discover that she is reliable, responsible and understanding of their needs.

Our team at ERA Justin Realty stand ready to serve you. Because of our daily priorities, we proudly received the prestigious ERA world-wide ‘Commitment to Excellence Award’ from ERA. For these reasons ERA Justin Realty should be your buying and selling Realtor of choice.”

All of the ERA Justin Realty full service Realtor 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 websites at www.ERAJustin.com andwww.ERAJustinRealty.com.

ERA Justin Realtor Professionals Offer The Joys of Historic Homes

ERA Justin Realtor Professionals Offer The Joys of Historic Homes

Many of us appreciate the aesthetic value of historic homes, and have even been known to fall in love with them from time to time.

Many Realtor Agents at ERA Justin Realty Co. have partnered with the National Trust for Historic Preservation to increase educational outreach centering on the preservation of historic properties. Having this designation makes them familiar with architecture that spans more than three centuries of history, highlighting both high-style and vernacular buildings ranging from stately Federal mansions and handsome Italianate row houses to modest Queen Anne cottages and mail-order bungalows.

Studying the work of authentic geniuses such as Henry Hobson Richardson, offbeat eccentrics such as Orson Squire Howler and Italian architects such as Andrea Palladio, their certifications focused on the Old World roots of American design. This knowledge helps them to understand how the great Gothic cathedrals of Europe are reflected in a "gingerbread" house in Maine, how Thomas Jefferson's "love affair" with a Roman temple helped spark a national mania for Greek buildings and how the flat Midwestern landscape shaped Frank Lloyd Wright's bold Prairie Style. This in-depth knowledge gives these ERA Justin professionals the ability to characterize Old World features of a home that properly positions a historic home in today’s marketplace.

ERA Justin Realtor Agent Lee Schilare, speaking for the group said, “Real estate professionals like to offer as many kinds of properties to prospective customers as there are different personalities of buyers. And few real estate properties have more personality than a historic home. By the standards of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, any structure at least 50 years old may qualify for historic-landmark status. This is determined by a home or other building's demonstration of particularly significant architectural features or now-rare styles, or its role in important past activities or events such as famous inventions, once-pivotal industries, presidential birthplaces or visits, etc.”

She continued, “Such homes, although wonderful, present challenges, as restoring the historic character to a possibly-neglected house can be a costly and time-consuming effort.

But there's much to be said for the personal satisfaction of remaking a house by your own effort, and restoring an example of America's past that can help keep us mindful and proud of our heritage. Also, where there are historic homes there are likely to be whole historic neighborhoods, which preserve and offer to the homebuyer just the kind of old-fashioned community qualities that today's home-seekers are craving and today's developers are trying to re-create.

If your home is on or considered eligible for local, state or national registers of historic places, various rules will be in effect for building materials, renovations, and uses of the structure which most fit the historical period in which it was built. Although these requirements can be an inconvenience, many states offer tax and other incentives for owning and rehabilitating historic homes found to meet historic-preservation officials' criteria. And owners of homes on government registers of historic places still have broad latitude in selling, altering and using their property.”

This ERA Justin Realty group are qualified real estate professionals who can help guide you through this rewarding but complicated area through their association with the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Several have been certified in recognizing and appreciating the diverse styles of historic homes, and understanding the challenges faced and advantages available to customers wishing to buy and sell such properties.

The ERA Justin Realty full service real estate 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, www.ERAJustinRealty.com andwww.SellBergenCounty.com

 ERA Justin Realty Continues to Receive Muscular Dystrophy President’s Club Honors

Rutherford: ERA Justin Realty continues to receive special MDA art awards for their efforts as one of New Jersey’s top MDA fundraising real estate offices. All art is original and created by MDA children. Readers are invited to visit the ERA Justin Realty offices to view the vast collection which is prominently displayed. The firm continues to be inducted into the MDA President’s Club, honors shared only by organizations with year-long focus for MDA and the Summer Camp For Kids program. Pictured is the ERA Justin Realty management team, Cindy Plessel, Nona Orlando, Ron Darby and Mazzion Schnackenberg with two MDA art creations.

Ron Darby, ERA Justin Realty Broker Co-owner  who has chaired the MDA effort for seventeen years said, “It has been the focus of our entire staff of agents to raise tax deductible donations to send as many children to MDA summer camp as possible.  We reach out to all of the business firms and individuals we transact business with throughout the year to send in their donations large and small.  Donations are pooled in an effort to send children to a New Jersey MDA summer camp for a week.  In the past, we had focused on raising funds for MDA research, but in recent years we wanted to help give these children an immediate positive experience by sending them to summer camp. Never-ending thanks to those who donate and to our ERA Justin Realty teammates who never stop working until our summer goal is achieved. We are now planning our fundraising event for the 2017 summer."

Each year MDA supports some 90 summer camps across the country. Whether in Alaska or Hawaii, in California or New Jersey, at MDA camp barriers simply don’t exist. A child with a disability can just be a child among friends. MDA camp is a magical place offering a wide range of activities specially designed for young people who have limited mobility or use wheelchairs. MDA camp programs, although structured, are conducted in a relaxed atmosphere that gives campers an unmatched opportunity to develop lifelong friendships, share interests and build self-confidence. Activities range from outdoor sports such as swimming, boating, baseball and horseback riding to less physically demanding programs like arts and crafts and talent shows. Thousands of youngsters attend MDA camp each year at no cost to their families.

If you’re 16 or older, you’re invited to apply to join the MDA team as a camp volunteer. At most MDA camps, volunteer counselors work one-on-one with campers around the clock, providing the care, close supervision and attention children with neuromuscular diseases need. Counselors push wheelchairs, lift and carry youngsters, and even "bunk down" near their campers. But above all, they become a youngsters friend for a week and sometimes for a lifetime.

By becoming an MDA summer camp sponsor you can provide a local youngster with neuromuscular disease with many special summer memories. The cost of sending one child to MDA camp for one week is $600.

As a sponsor, you will be invited to visit the local MDA camp during the special sponsor VIP Day. You’ll see the joy that your participation in this program creates. Your involvement will also be saluted at any area broadcasts for MDA and at upcoming ERA Global Business Conferences.

Darby continued, “Become a sponsor! Help youngsters with neuromuscular diseases in your community experience a week of fun and friendship they’ll never forget. At MDA camp there’s always a need for volunteer counselors, medical staff, water safety instructors and activity coordinators. Be a volunteer or a sponsor by sending your tax deductible check made payable to MDA and mail it to MDA c/o ERA Justin Realty Co., 118 Jackson Avenue, Rutherford, New Jersey 07070.  If you have questions on this great program for the kids, call

us at (201) 939-7500.”

To review more about ERA Justin Realty MDA fundraising, simply go to their websites at www.ERAJustin.com and www.ERAJustinRealty.com and click on MDA efforts.

Attachments area

ERA JUSTIN REALTY PROVIDES ENERGY TIPS AS WE APPROACH COLDER WEATHER

ERA JUSTIN REALTY PROVIDES ENERGY TIPS

AS WE APPROACH COLDER WEATHER

Money down the drain is not a good thing. You want your home to be comfortable, but you certainly don't want it to cost you more than necessary. Energy efficiency is good for the environment and it's very good for your bank account. A quick look around your property can help you plug up that money drain.

Kristen Davis, ERA Justin Realtor agent offers these tips to South Bergenite readers. “Older homes that haven't been updated can often be energy inefficient. But they don't have to be. Newer homes may be less likely to suffer from escaping energy but every home needs to be inspected from time to time. Look for the obvious problems, such as cracked windows, a storm door that doesn't close properly or a split in the foundation. Cold air can seep through, costing you valuable money. Hold your hand over door and window frames to see if air is coming through. On windy days, place a piece of tissue paper next to these openings. If the tissue moves, you've got a problem.

It is time to take action. Caulk around door and window frames and along basement walls. There are inexpensive sweepers you can place at the bottom of your door to help keep down drafts. Weather stripping is usually easy to install and is quite effective in sealing up small areas where air leaks through. And replace any broken panes. A newer and better sealing storm door might also be an option.

In the winter, a rug or draft stopper can be placed by the door to block heat from escaping. Let the sunlight work for you by opening drapes when the sun is out and closing them later in the evening. In fact, fabric is a terrific way to keep a room warm. Remember those beautiful tapestries used in castles? They were as useful as they were beautiful. Castles were notoriously cold and damp. Hanging tapestries in appropriate places helped make things more comfortable.

Adjusting the thermostat only a few degrees can make a tremendous difference in that energy bill. If it feels a little cooler than you would like in the winter, put on a sweater. As long as everyone in the house is healthy, it shouldn't make any difference, except to your bank account. In the summer, ceiling fans can circulate the air, making your home feel cooler without costing so much. Even in the winter, you can reverse the blades on the ceiling fan and it will move the warm air around, making the room seem warmer without turning up the thermostat.”

ERA Justin Realty has continually received the prestigious ERA world-wide ‘Commitment to Excellence Award’ throughout nearly 3,000 ERA offices. All across the nation, one of the most sought 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 of ‘Highest Satisfaction for First Time Home Buyers Among Full Service Real Estate Firms’ and ‘Highest Satisfaction for First Time Home Sellers.’ For these reasons ERA Justin Realty should be your buying and selling Realtor of choice.

The ERA Justin Realty full service real estate consultants 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 website at www.ERAJustin.com and www.ERAJustinRealty.com.

ERA Justin Realty's Jennifer Mazone appointed as Social Media Director

ERA Justin Realty's Jennifer Mazone appointed as Social Media Director

 

Jennifer Mazone, with ERA Justin Realty, has been appointed as the firm's Social Media Director and Specialist.  The firm, through Mazone uses vast computer-mediated technologies that allow the creating and sharing of information ideas, career interests and other forms of expression via virtual communities and networks. ERA Justin Realty and their Realtor agents are members of the National Association of Realtors (NAR) the world's largest association of real estate professionals focusing and specifically representing buyers and sellers in real estate transactions.

 

Mazone, a Rutherford resident is married to Dennis Mazone. They have three children, Max, Jack and Phoebe. She is also a loving rescuer of pets including three adopted dogs and a cat. Many know her locally as a class parent volunteer, PTA and involved in both Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts plus Rutherford recreational sports.

 

Mazone said, "Social Media today brings together the news, trends, and best practices around social and digital marketing with focus on our Realtor agents. My position and creativity includes photography and graphic design to be the voice for real estate throughout our company and the communities we serve in Bergen, Passaic, Essex, Hudson and Ocean Counties. There is a difference in real estate companies and we feel we need to have the most up-to-date information so our Realtor agents can continue to be on the cutting-edge of information for our sellers and buyers. In this way, we are confident we are doing the best for them. We are thankful that our firm is held in high regard and we offer our publication of reviews about our company, Real Estate Results in Writing, a history of nearly 800 written reviews from our sellers and buyers. ERA Justin Realty  also proudly received the prestigious Circle of Light Award, as the premier and only ERA real estate firm, selected from approximately 31,000 ERA brokers and agents globally."

 

For more information on these real estate market leaders and on real estate topics, consumers can reach them at either of their two Rutherford offices at 118 Jackson Avenue and 57 Park Avenue and their meet and greet Hoboken location. 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.

 

 

ERA Justin Realty Participates in Kip Center Holiday Festival

 

Rutherford:  It was just fall, but within 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 and 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.  Trees/wreaths/centerpieces will be judged for the Most Beautiful, Most Original/Creative, and Best Use of Theme to be displayed through December 10th.

 

Assisting in creating holiday cheer with the 2016 ERA Justin Realty presentation are Realtor salespersons Danny Simone, Joana Iliescu, Jennifer Sullivan, Michael Bradley, Cathy Vick, Ilene Harpuder, Jennifer Sofia, Peggy McLaughlin, Sharon Robie, Lee Schilare, Jessica Davidson and Carol D. Calamari who are the presenters for their 2016 charitable event wreath who recently offered their unique Home Sweet Home theme wreath, designed with 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 2016."

 

Ron Darby and Jennifer Darby Metzger, ERA Justin Realty broker co-owners 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 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.

ERA JUSTIN REALTY ACHIEVERS THROUGHOUT 2016

ERA JUSTIN REALTY ACHIEVERS THROUGHOUT 2016

 In addition to being the ERA Justin Realty Leadership Circle achievers throughout the third quarter of 2016, Lee Schilare, Danny Simone, Rosemarie Zembryski, Peg McLaughlin, Carol D. Calamari, Jennifer Sullivan, Cathy Vick, Julia Dagistanli and Fara Espandi all  know the secrets to real estate success.  It takes dedication from these sales professionals who are part of the ERA Justin Realty success team.  Simply watch them day after day, month after month, year after year.  They are focused on exceeding the needs of their sellers and buyers, continuing with their success in varied real estate economies.

They have also offered their knowledge to readers on a variety of topics. Throughout the year topics are offered in North Jersey Newspapers, The South Bergenite and The Record, including, Moving And How It Affects Children, How Renters Can Become Buyers, Dollar For Dollar Return On Renovations, Empty Nesters And Returning Children, Avoiding The Money Pit, as well as other timely articles for buyers and sellers.

With over 35 years as an ERA market leader nationwide, ERA Justin Realty continues as a "Top-100" ERA firm serving Bergen, Passaic, Hudson and Essex counties. They continue to grow their firm since opening their doors in 1950.

Although showing and selling real estate is a 365 day and night job for these ERA Justin Realtor professionals, their responsibilities go beyond what the public sees.  The firm has a vast resource library of important topics to share with the public.  These Realtors and their broker-owners Ron Darby and Jennifer Darby Metzger are always busy advising homeowners on topics that aid them in making sound real estate decisions regarding their homes. 

“There is a difference in real estate companies,” stated Ron Darby.  “Attending on-going advanced training, seminars, round-table discussions with industry leaders and focus groups is what we continually do at our firm, much more than many other area real estate firms.  We believe, in order to exceed sellers expectations of what a Realtor professional is about, we don’t learn just the basics.  We want to learn, know and teach much more than is ever expected of us.  In that way, we know that our sellers will hold us in the highest regard.  To prove that, our sellers have put their thoughts in writing. We have on file for the asking, ‘What people are saying’ our report of nearly 800 quotes and reviews from our sellers and buyers.  No other area real estate firm can offer that.”

“These ERA Justin Realtor professionals are our best-of-the-best through the third quarter, 2016. They achieved our ‘Leadership Circle’ status for their efforts above and beyond for their sellers and buyers,” concluded Jennifer Darby Metzger.

For more information on these real estate market leaders and on real estate topics, consumers can reach them at either of their two Rutherford offices at 118 Jackson Avenue and 57 Park Avenue or at our Hoboken Meet and Greet location at 221 River Street.  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 atwww.ERAJustin.com and www.ERAJustinRealty.com.

ERA Justin Provides Pros and Cons of Verbal Real Estate Negotiations

ERA Justin Provides Pros and Cons of Verbal Real Estate Negotiations

Negotiating a home purchase can be an arduous process. Drafting the purchase offer can take hours depending on the situation. After all that, the seller may or may not find it acceptable, and modifications may be necessary. Buyers usually focus on price when they think of striking a deal with the seller. But the purchase offer encompasses all the terms and conditions that will apply if the sale goes forward. It's a complicated legal document. Sellers often don't accept the buyer's first offer in its entirety. For instance, the seller might like the buyer's price, but not the date he wants to close the sale. Or, the buyer could ask for possession of the property when the deal closes, and the sellers might need to rent back for a while. It's common for buyers and sellers to engage in several rounds of counter offering back and forth before they arrive at a contract that's mutually acceptable. This can take days. One way to short-cut the process is through verbal negotiations.

ERA Justin Realtor agent Grace Tirrito said, “For example, sellers of a property received several offers. Two of the offers were close to what they were hoping for. Rather than countering back and forth, they asked their listing agent to talk to the real estate agents who represented the buyers who made the two best offers. The sellers wanted to know if either or both of the buyers would be willing to pay more in order to wrap up the deal. The sellers reached a verbal agreement with one of the buyers, which was promptly solidified in writing.
When house hunting, It's critical to keep in mind that verbal agreements to sell real estate aren't binding. To be legally enforceable, a contract to buy real estate must be agreed to in writing by both buyer and seller. One prospective buyer learned this lesson the hard way. He preferred to negotiate verbally with the seller for the purchase of the property. After several days of verbal negotiations, the buyer and seller reached a verbal agreement on price. The details that make up the entire purchase agreement hadn't been discussed. When the buyer finally sat down with an agent to put his offer is writing, other buyers were expressing interest in making offers. One of the other buyers did step forward with a written offer for a higher price that was presented to the seller along with the offer from the buyer who had initially made the verbal offer. The sellers happily accepted the highest offer, which was much better than the offer made by the buyer who preferred to wait to put his offer in writing.”

Tirrito continued, “Buyers and sellers often feel that negotiations about issues that are less significant than the price can be carried out with less pressure on a more casual verbal basis. But, until you have a fully ratified written contract, out of the attorney review period, you don't have a binding agreement. So, if another offer shows up before you've agreed in writing to all the terms of your purchase contract, the sellers may be under no obligation to sell to you. Even if you're diligent about committing your offer and all counteroffers to writing, both you and the sellers have the right to withdraw a counteroffer before it has been signed by the other party and acceptance has been delivered back to the party that made the counteroffer. Like in baseball it’s not over till it's over, your real estate contract isn't binding until it's signed by all parties.  Be sure to consult a knowledgeable real estate attorney if you have any questions about whether you have a binding contract."

“There is a difference in real estate companies,” continued Tirrito.  “Presenting consumer information, we believe, is in order to exceed sellers expectations of what ERA Justin Realty is about, and we don’t offer just the basics.  In that way, we know that our sellers will hold us in the highest regard.  Our sellers have put their thoughts in writing. We have on file for the asking, ‘What people are saying’ our report of over 800 reviews and testimonials from our sellers and buyers.  No other area real estate firm can offer that,” she concluded.

 

ERA Justin Realty proudly received the prestigious ERA world-wide Commitment to Excellence Award, from approximately 3,000 ERA offices. All across the nation, the most sought award that can be achieved in business is the J.D. Power and Associates award.  Outstanding business entities are honored and receive it.  ERA Real Estate was the recipient of the J. D. Power and Associates 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.

 

 All of the ERA Justin Realtor 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. Also view 1000's of homes at their websites at www.ERAJustin.com and www/ERAJustinRealty.com.

 

ERA Justin Provides Pros and Cons of Verbal Real Estate Negotiations

ERA Justin Provides Pros and Cons of Verbal Real Estate Negotiations

Negotiating a home purchase can be an arduous process. Drafting the purchase offer can take hours depending on the situation. After all that, the seller may or may not find it acceptable, and modifications may be necessary. Buyers usually focus on price when they think of striking a deal with the seller. But the purchase offer encompasses all the terms and conditions that will apply if the sale goes forward. It's a complicated legal document. Sellers often don't accept the buyer's first offer in its entirety. For instance, the seller might like the buyer's price, but not the date he wants to close the sale. Or, the buyer could ask for possession of the property when the deal closes, and the sellers might need to rent back for a while. It's common for buyers and sellers to engage in several rounds of counter offering back and forth before they arrive at a contract that's mutually acceptable. This can take days. One way to short-cut the process is through verbal negotiations.

ERA Justin Realtor agent Grace Tirrito said, “For example, sellers of a property received several offers. Two of the offers were close to what they were hoping for. Rather than countering back and forth, they asked their listing agent to talk to the real estate agents who represented the buyers who made the two best offers. The sellers wanted to know if either or both of the buyers would be willing to pay more in order to wrap up the deal. The sellers reached a verbal agreement with one of the buyers, which was promptly solidified in writing.
When house hunting, It's critical to keep in mind that verbal agreements to sell real estate aren't binding. To be legally enforceable, a contract to buy real estate must be agreed to in writing by both buyer and seller. One prospective buyer learned this lesson the hard way. He preferred to negotiate verbally with the seller for the purchase of the property. After several days of verbal negotiations, the buyer and seller reached a verbal agreement on price. The details that make up the entire purchase agreement hadn't been discussed. When the buyer finally sat down with an agent to put his offer is writing, other buyers were expressing interest in making offers. One of the other buyers did step forward with a written offer for a higher price that was presented to the seller along with the offer from the buyer who had initially made the verbal offer. The sellers happily accepted the highest offer, which was much better than the offer made by the buyer who preferred to wait to put his offer in writing.”

Tirrito continued, “Buyers and sellers often feel that negotiations about issues that are less significant than the price can be carried out with less pressure on a more casual verbal basis. But, until you have a fully ratified written contract, out of the attorney review period, you don't have a binding agreement. So, if another offer shows up before you've agreed in writing to all the terms of your purchase contract, the sellers may be under no obligation to sell to you. Even if you're diligent about committing your offer and all counteroffers to writing, both you and the sellers have the right to withdraw a counteroffer before it has been signed by the other party and acceptance has been delivered back to the party that made the counteroffer. Like in baseball it’s not over till it's over, your real estate contract isn't binding until it's signed by all parties.  Be sure to consult a knowledgeable real estate attorney if you have any questions about whether you have a binding contract."

“There is a difference in real estate companies,” continued Tirrito.  “Presenting consumer information, we believe, is in order to exceed sellers expectations of what ERA Justin Realty is about, and we don’t offer just the basics.  In that way, we know that our sellers will hold us in the highest regard.  Our sellers have put their thoughts in writing. We have on file for the asking, ‘What people are saying’ our report of over 800 reviews and testimonials from our sellers and buyers.  No other area real estate firm can offer that,” she concluded.

 

ERA Justin Realty proudly received the prestigious ERA world-wide Commitment to Excellence Award, from approximately 3,000 ERA offices. All across the nation, the most sought award that can be achieved in business is the J.D. Power and Associates award.  Outstanding business entities are honored and receive it.  ERA Real Estate was the recipient of the J. D. Power and Associates 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.

 

 All of the ERA Justin Realtor 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. Also view 1000's of homes at their websites at www.ERAJustin.com and www/ERAJustinRealty.com.

 

ERA Justin Provides Pros and Cons of Verbal Real Estate Negotiations

ERA Justin Provides Pros and Cons of Verbal Real Estate Negotiations

Negotiating a home purchase can be an arduous process. Drafting the purchase offer can take hours depending on the situation. After all that, the seller may or may not find it acceptable, and modifications may be necessary. Buyers usually focus on price when they think of striking a deal with the seller. But the purchase offer encompasses all the terms and conditions that will apply if the sale goes forward. It's a complicated legal document. Sellers often don't accept the buyer's first offer in its entirety. For instance, the seller might like the buyer's price, but not the date he wants to close the sale. Or, the buyer could ask for possession of the property when the deal closes, and the sellers might need to rent back for a while. It's common for buyers and sellers to engage in several rounds of counter offering back and forth before they arrive at a contract that's mutually acceptable. This can take days. One way to short-cut the process is through verbal negotiations.

ERA Justin Realtor agent Grace Tirrito said, “For example, sellers of a property received several offers. Two of the offers were close to what they were hoping for. Rather than countering back and forth, they asked their listing agent to talk to the real estate agents who represented the buyers who made the two best offers. The sellers wanted to know if either or both of the buyers would be willing to pay more in order to wrap up the deal. The sellers reached a verbal agreement with one of the buyers, which was promptly solidified in writing.
When house hunting, It's critical to keep in mind that verbal agreements to sell real estate aren't binding. To be legally enforceable, a contract to buy real estate must be agreed to in writing by both buyer and seller. One prospective buyer learned this lesson the hard way. He preferred to negotiate verbally with the seller for the purchase of the property. After several days of verbal negotiations, the buyer and seller reached a verbal agreement on price. The details that make up the entire purchase agreement hadn't been discussed. When the buyer finally sat down with an agent to put his offer is writing, other buyers were expressing interest in making offers. One of the other buyers did step forward with a written offer for a higher price that was presented to the seller along with the offer from the buyer who had initially made the verbal offer. The sellers happily accepted the highest offer, which was much better than the offer made by the buyer who preferred to wait to put his offer in writing.”

Tirrito continued, “Buyers and sellers often feel that negotiations about issues that are less significant than the price can be carried out with less pressure on a more casual verbal basis. But, until you have a fully ratified written contract, out of the attorney review period, you don't have a binding agreement. So, if another offer shows up before you've agreed in writing to all the terms of your purchase contract, the sellers may be under no obligation to sell to you. Even if you're diligent about committing your offer and all counteroffers to writing, both you and the sellers have the right to withdraw a counteroffer before it has been signed by the other party and acceptance has been delivered back to the party that made the counteroffer. Like in baseball it’s not over till it's over, your real estate contract isn't binding until it's signed by all parties.  Be sure to consult a knowledgeable real estate attorney if you have any questions about whether you have a binding contract."

“There is a difference in real estate companies,” continued Tirrito.  “Presenting consumer information, we believe, is in order to exceed sellers expectations of what ERA Justin Realty is about, and we don’t offer just the basics.  In that way, we know that our sellers will hold us in the highest regard.  Our sellers have put their thoughts in writing. We have on file for the asking, ‘What people are saying’ our report of over 800 reviews and testimonials from our sellers and buyers.  No other area real estate firm can offer that,” she concluded.

 

ERA Justin Realty proudly received the prestigious ERA world-wide Commitment to Excellence Award, from approximately 3,000 ERA offices. All across the nation, the most sought award that can be achieved in business is the J.D. Power and Associates award.  Outstanding business entities are honored and receive it.  ERA Real Estate was the recipient of the J. D. Power and Associates 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.

 

 All of the ERA Justin Realtor 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. Also view 1000's of homes at their websites at www.ERAJustin.com and www/ERAJustinRealty.com.

 

Increasing Investment Potential 2016, An ERA Justin Realty Overview

Increasing Investment Potential 2016, An ERA Justin Realty Overview

Buying or selling a house is one of the biggest decisions most people will ever make with their finances and their lifestyle. Getting the best bargain in the purchase or making the most profit on the sale give buyers and sellers so much to think about that many may never stop to consider buying another as an income-generating property. The rewards in savings and profits can be high.

Cathy Vick a Realtor agent with ERA Justin Realty for over thirty three years, besides her successful listing and sales career was also selected as Realtor of the Year by the RealSource Association of Realtors with 3,500 members and shared, “One option for buyers who otherwise might consider home prices beyond their reach is a property that helps pay for itself; a house you live in part of and rent the rest of. This offers not only an obvious balance of cost and income, but perhaps lesser-known benefits in taxes and mortgage that you should consider with your tax advisor. The rental units can be depreciated over time and considered to offset the rental income. This may lower your taxes on that income. At the same time, the rents in addition to your finances helps you qualify for a larger mortgage, and investors who occupy their rental properties, under certain conditions, may get interest rates lower than those who do not.

Many mortgage lenders provide varied mortgage programs. Our menu of mortgage lenders will provide updated information when you begin your home search. We can tell you more. Of course you'll want to decide if the demands of being a live-in landlord are for you, and explore if rent-control laws in your area might limit the return on your investment. If being an offsite landlord is more appealing, you could always keep your current home as a rental after you move into the new one. Your long-tern familiarity with the home's features and condition could lend a certain confidence both to yourself and your potential tenants. As with any investment property, you'll first want to calculate whether the rental income will make up for the needed expenses. This is another consideration in which one of our qualified Realtor sales agents can help with his or her knowledge of the local rental market and its prospects over time.

If you are pleased with the prospects, then you may even prefer a fixer-upper to your familiar former home. With a thorough inspection to answer any questions, and a realistic budget and disciplined schedule to handle all improvements, your outlays may prove to be well worth it. Renovations can range from reconfiguring the floor plan to simply replacing now-unfashionable décor.

Owning an income-generating property may not be for everyone, but, from younger buyers offsetting their purchase costs, to seniors easing the expenses of their retirement years it can be for many kinds of people. Talk to a real estate sales professional at ERA Justin Realty to find out if rental property may be two times the success for you personally.”

Vick concluded, “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 approximately 30,000 ERA brokers and agents all across the ERA nation."

Vick and all of the ERA Justin Realty full service Realtor 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.  Additional cutting-edge real estate technology information awaits you at their winning search websites at www.ERAJustin.com and www.ERAJustinRealty.com.

How Accessibility Features Can Serve Homeowners of All Ages and Abilities in 2016

We all need a helping hand from time to time, but prefer to remain as independent as possible. Accessible features in a home are a way of lending ourselves a hand, and staying in our own house for much longer than we otherwise might.

“As more members of the baby boom generation, which comprises the largest segment of America’s population reach retirement age, many of them show a preference for 'aging in place' in their own homes rather than moving to traditional senior communities and facilities. This trend has created more interest than ever in the designing and retrofitting of homes for maximum ease of use. Heightened awareness of the needs of disabled people of all ages, and increased legislative attention to their rights, including the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), have also helped drive a trend which can benefit all homebuyers,” stated ERA Justin Realtor agent, Julia Dagistanli.

What has come to be called Universal Design is a set of standards for making every house a welcoming home for inhabitants of all ability levels. These include placing light switches and thermostats low enough, and electrical outlets high enough, for anyone to reach; outfitting hallways with railings and showers with grab-bars and stools; replacing doorknobs with levers; offering ramps as well as stairs, and doorways that can accommodate wheelchairs; and minimizing falling risks through secure, low-pile carpeting.  Though there was a time when accessibility was considered an obstacle to resale value and desirability, attitudes and demographics have changed, and Universal Design is now considered a resale advantage. This potential extra salability can be achieved through minimal effort and expense. For instance, in many cases a room can be made wheelchair-accessible simply by changing the direction of a swinging door.

Dagistanli continued, “The simplicity of such measures, and their popularity with potential homebuyers makes it equally desirable to build a new home with these considerations in mind, or to retrofit an existing home with them. No one has to feel they’ve turned their home into a medical facility. You can avoid this with some smart and simple methods that enhance convenience and are common sense for all homeowners, while maintaining the more intangible comforts of home, like independence and familiar communities. In addition to the convenience offered by making these types of upgrades to a home, there are government loan programs that can help subsidize accessibility modifications. Talk to one of  real estate professionals about accessible-home options in any area where you may be interested in buying. He or she can also find out about financing opportunities and other ways to keep your path to satisfying and secure homeownership a clear one.”

ERA Justin Realty, a leading area Realtor serving Bergen, Passaic, Hudson and Essex Counties is part of the international global real estate network which was named the recipient of the  J.D. Power and Associates Award for Highest Overall Satisfaction For First Time Home Sellers Among National Full Service Real Estate Firms.  ERA Real Estate is the only national full service real estate company, receiving this award during that year.

This marks an additional year that ERA Real Estate had received an award from this prestigious organization. Prior, ERA was the recipient of the J.D. Power and Associates Award for Highest Overall Satisfaction For First Time Home Buyers Among National Full Service Real Estate Firms. The home Buyer/Seller Satisfaction Study^SM was based on responses from 4,834 home buyers and sellers surveyed by J.D. Power and Associates.

Dagistanli concluded, “To learn more about ERA Justin Realty, our staff, our Realtor agents and our award-recognized programs and services we provide, call our ERA Justin Realty full service Realtor agents who can be reached at either of our two Rutherford offices at 118 Jackson Avenue and 57 Park Avenue.  By phone (201) 939-7500, (201) 438-0588 or (201) 438-SOLD. Also view 1000s of homes at our websites at www.ERAJustin.com and www.ERAJustinRealty.com. 

Insights: Rather Than Sitting on the Fence …Why Not Own It?

Insights: Rather Than Sitting on the Fence …Why Not Own It?

ERA Justin Realty, a real estate brokerage serving Bergen, Passaic, Essex and Hudson counties since 1950 are market leaders in real estate and are experiencing market conditions stronger now than in years.

Carol D. Calamari, Realtor agent with the firm offers the following insights for consumers considering buying a home.

"Homes are affordable for qualified buyers – New listings of homes come to the market daily. Sellers are active in transferring, upgrading to a larger home or downsizing nearing retirement. The market is strongly active with motivated sellers and buyers wanting to take advantage of this active market.

Mortgage interest rates are low – 30-year fixed mortgage interest rates remain near historical lows, based on an average 30-year fixed mortgage rates, fluctuating under 4%.

Timing is Everything – For qualified buyers, this is the time to buy. According to market trends as we approach the holidays, with current inventory being sold and fewer houses coming to market, your best selection of homes may be now and you'll have an opportunity to move in for the holidays.

Homeownership is  an American Dream – Overwhelming, buyers feel homeownership is an important part of the American Dream, according to the great number of homes sold and closed in 2016 and those currently in the market.

Financing is Available – Today’s borrower needs to have stable employment and sufficient income to cover the monthly mortgage payment and living expenses; adequate savings to make at least a minimal down payment; and an acceptable credit score. If you meet these basic requirements and plan to live in the home, you may be well on your way.  Varied mortgage loan programs are available to qualified buyers including FHA which requires a low down payment, conventional mortgages, and VA mortgages with no down payment. Credit score minimums may be higher or lower depending on loan type, income history, property type and other factors."

“Now may well be the time to make your move,” continued Calamari.  “If a home purchase is in your future plans, I would encourage you to talk to one of our Realtor agents because now may be the time for you to act. There is changing inventory on the market for you to capture that dream home you have always wanted at a possible price and terms you can handle.  But don’t wait too long, because mortgage rates and home prices won’t stay this low forever.  Find your dream home along with a mortgage that meets your needs with the help of our professional Realtor agents."

ERA Justin Realty has received the prestigious 'Commitment to Excellence' Award from all across the ERA nation.  For these reasons ERA Justin Realty should be your buying and selling Realtor of choice.

All of the ERA Justin Realtor 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. Also view 1000s of homes at their websites at www.ERAJustin.com and www.ERAJustinRealty.com.

Strong Seller Competition Requires Attention For An Autumn Showing

 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 should consider  putting  careful thought into buyers' first impressions, because many sales will be made or lost before they reach the front door – or as soon as they walk through it.

ERA Justin Realty’s Broker Co-owner Jennifer Metzger Darby 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.  Some painting if necessary is an investment that should more than pay 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.

The fewer 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. 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.”

Jennifer 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 Realtor agent professionals can guide you in all the above matters and more, from supplying a checklist of presentation tips, to recommending affordable painting contractors 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 2016 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 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. Our publication of nearly 800 Buyer and Seller reviews will give you the confidence in our firm."

ERA Justin Realty proudly received the prestigious ERA world-wide 2003‘Commitment to Excellence Award’, selected from approximately 3,000 ERA real estate firms. Only outstanding business entities are honored and receive it. 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 1000s of homes website at www.ERAJustin.com and www.ERAJustinRealty.com.