55⁺ Adult Community Living

For those home-shoppers who may be nearing the age of retirement, the idea of living in a 55⁺ community might seem appealing. An active adult community, alternatively referred to as 55⁺, will have its differences when compared to your other neighborhoods — one of those being age limitations.

So, before you buy into one of these communities near you, take note of some key things about living in an active adult community. Joana Iliescu, Sales Associate for ERA Justin Realty, says, “Most 55⁺ aged people are still very vivacious and very active and athletic and want to do fun things and would like to continue doing these activities well into retirement”. She shares the benefits of living in this type of community and why not all are alike in what they offer.

Why Choose a 55⁺ Community?

While many of those who seek out a 55⁺ community are not retired, many are empty-nesters who are at a stage where they want to downsize or simply want less home maintenance to deal with. Many 55⁺ new home communities also feature the latest amenities. Walking trails, concierge services and even community gardens are a few examples.

Common amenities include community pools and lawn maintenance, so residents can have a nice yard without having to work so hard on keeping it that way. Fitness centers are also popular attractions, as residents can stay active and fit, without the hassle of a gym membership.

Age Requirements and Restrictions

Of course, the first thing you’ll want to consider are those age restrictions. While many active adult communities will have age limits set at 55 years, others may be higher, lower or have none at all.

Most communities will have an association with by-laws with restrictions. Joana adds “For example, some restrictions may include the number of occupants living in the dwelling, access of amenities for non-residents, or customization of the home itself”. 

Lifestyle Evaluations

You’ll want to consider if the active adult lifestyle truly fits your needs at this stage in your life. There are differing levels of maintenance that residents choose to adopt when moving into an age-qualified segment. “You should consider not only your current needs, but think of long-term needs as you age-in-place,” Joana states. This would include floorplan layout as well as sense of community. 

A close-knit community of neighbors in the same life stage, coupled with a community with lots of activities and security, makes a 55⁺ community an attractive option for homebuyers ready to start the next chapter of their life.

To help you get started looking for your next community, contact Joana Iliescu or any of our experienced ERA Justin Realty Sales Associates at (201) 939-7500.

ERA JUSTIN REALTY 2018 LEADERSHIP CIRCLE ACHIEVERS

2018 was a successful real estate year with affordable sales prices for qualified buyers.  The ERA Justin Realty staff of Realtor agents have worked diligently with sellers and buyers to continue to be a strong real estate agents and brokers throughout Bergen, Passaic, Hudson, Essex and Ocean Counties and being the #1 office in Rutherford closed transactions for 18 consecutive years; statistics provided by the New Jersey MLS.

Ask the ERA Justin Realty 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th  quarter award achievers, how important is proper house pricing and the answer you will hear over and over is realistically. Ask any of these Leadership Circle achievers who will provide a complimentary Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) and you will receive the answers to your real estate questions.  They include Michelle Korosy, Joana Iliescu, Julia Dagistanli, Lee Schilare, Jennifer Sullivan, Fara Espandi, Peggy McLaughlin and Carol Calamari.

 Ron Darby, Broker stated, “If you are thinking of selling your house and want to know realistic pricing, you may contact one of our Realtor sales agents and request a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) to determine its fair market value. Our service is provided free of charge and without obligation.  In conducting a CMA, we have access to a wide array of information, such as databases containing recent listing and selling prices of similar homes in the neighborhoods, and how long these houses took to sell. The resulting analysis can help a homeowner reach a realistic  fair market value.  When the house is put on the market we will use the CMA to help the homeowner establish a selling marketing program. The CMA information is helpful in determining the market value of the 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 prices other houses in the area have sold.  Our CMA report for our sellers is truly comprehensive. 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 are 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 being honored.”

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 and our Hoboken Meet and Greet 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 LEADERSHIP CIRCLE THIRD QUARTER 2018

ERA JUSTIN REALTY LEADERSHIP CIRCLE THIRD QUARTER 2018

In addition to being Leadership Circle achievers throughout the third quarter of 2018, Lee Schilare, Jennifer Sullivan, Julia Dagistanli, Carol D. Calamari, Michelle Korosy, Joana Iliescu, 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.  They are focused on exceeding the needs of their sellers and buyers.

They also offer their knowledge to readers on a variety of topics. These articles are available in North Jersey's 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. As a market leader, 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. 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.

They said, “If you are thinking of selling your house in the near future and want to know how much it could sell for, then you should contact one of our achievers and request a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) to determine its fair market value. Our service is provided free of charge and without obligation.  In conducting a CMA, we have access to a wide array of information, such as databases containing recent listing and selling prices of similar homes in the neighborhood. The resulting analysis can help a homeowner reach a realistic figure of fair market value, deciding on a price that is competitive and consistent with prices other houses in the area have sold. 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 believe that in order to exceed expectations of what ERA Justin Realty is about, we must offer more than just real estate basics, we are to be as comprehensive as possible. Proof of our abilities for our clients and customers is reflected in these fine award winner's achievements.  Our sellers have put their reviews in writing. We have them on file, for the asking, ‘What people are saying’ with our report of over 1,000 quotes and reviews from our sellers and buyers.  No other area real estate firm can offer that.”

Dos and Don'ts of mixing architectural styles 2017

Dos and Don'ts of mixing architectural styles 2017

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

Joana Iliescu of ERA Justin Realty Co. has increased her educational outreach centering on the preservation of historic properties. making her 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.

Joana suggested, “It's amazing how a single motif can call up a whole architectural style. Motifs act as a kind of visual shorthand -- when we see fishscale shingles, we think Victorian. When we see zigzags, we think Deco. When we see curlicues, we think Spanish, and so on. More and more homeowners have an impressive grasp of architectural styles -- due, no doubt, to ‘This Old House’-style TV shows and instant Google searches. Lots of people are able to sense when things don't seem to fit together right. So unless you aim to be eclectic, try to limit yourself to a few favorite motifs, and apply them consistently. If you use segmental arches, for example, don't mix them with round ones -- the first speaks Italian, while the second screams in Spanish. For similar reasons, don't mix double-hung windows with sliders, Art Nouveau with Art Deco, divided lites with glass block, and so on. All of these pairings come from very different eras and sources, and they'll get along none too happily in one facade.  If you're not sure which motif goes with which style, consult some books on the style or period you're interested in. Find five or six examples of buildings you really like, and take note of the motifs they have in common. Then, pay equally close attention to the things you don't find, and you won't be confused by mixed-up motifs.”

Joana and the entire ERA Justin staff 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’S JOANA ILIESCU OFFERS SUMMER RELOCATION TIPS FOR KIDS

ERA JUSTIN’S JOANA ILIESCU OFFERS SUMMER RELOCATION TIPS FOR KIDS

                                     

With a Bachelor of Science degree in business management having worked in the hospitality industry in a management position and a focused sales professional with ERA Justin Realty, Joana  Iliescu offers important tips on Relocation for Kids. “During the past months of 2015 many homes were purchased with summer closings and plans for kids to begin a new school year in a brand new location.  Every year, many families move. One of the most important issues to anyone with kids is their reaction to the news that they're moving and their adjustment to the new home. Being informed is very important to children. One of the worst mistakes we can make as adults is to assume that kids don't care or won't understand the details. Keeping them 'in the loop,' consulting them about choices whenever possible, and including them in the family game plan will work wonders toward their adjustment. Here are a few tips. ” said Joana.

 

“Preschool children:  Kids under the age of six may worry about being left behind, or being separated from their parents. If you go on an orientation or house-hunting trip before hand without the children, it's important to reassure kids this age that you will be back; bring something unique back to them from the new town. It's also very important for them to express their feelings and fears about the move. Give them a job to do - have them be responsible for boxing up their favorite toys, and 'labeling' their boxes with crayons and stickers.

Ages 6 to 12:  Elementary age kids are usually most concerned with how the everyday routines of their lives are going to change. Showing them pictures, videos and magazines of their new home will help a lot, especially if you can find new places in advance for the things they like to do. If your child takes dance lessons, find and share information about the new dance studio he/she can go to. If it's karate or soccer or baseball . . . even if its favorite things to do in the park or the pizza parlor, find these places in your new neighborhood and get brochures, pictures or videos.

Teenagers:  Teenagers are most concerned with fitting in. They may react angrily to the move, even insist they're not going. This is usually due to the total lack of control they have over everything important in their lives - friends, school and jobs - being disrupted. These children can be very worried about making new friends, and what will be different in the new school. They are curious about the clothing, hairstyles, bicycles, cars, etc. that kids in the new city will have. Pictures of all these things are very helpful, so if you take an orientation trip be sure to take many detailed photos/videos of the schools they will be attending.

Other tips for making the transition: 

1. Give young children an entertaining travel kit for the move.
2. Give older children a diary for recording the trip and move.
3. Give children of all ages a special address book and stationery set for keeping up with old friends.
4. Take videos of the new home if the kids won't get to see it before the move.
5. Arrive well before the movers so kids can explore and become acquainted first.
6. Give children a chore to do, such as working on their room (younger), supervising little siblings (middle), and painting or arranging furniture (older kids).
7. Take a break with the family as soon as possible to explore the museums, sights and recreation in your new city.
8. Arrange a visit to new schools and a meeting with the teacher before the actual first day of attendance.
9. Encourage the children to bring new friends home.

 

Regardless of when you move, prepare your children well for the transition. By planning you'll be able to offer them a few details of what to expect. Give the kids plenty of opportunity to express their feelings about the move and their anxieties about the new school, new friends, teachers, and their sadness at leaving all that is familiar. Try to find ways to address your own emotional needs and your stress load so that you appear available to the kids at all times. Their concerns will only be heightened if they see you with concerns. Find a balance with yourself and your kids, and keep communication open. Planning and organizing can help keep stress to a minimum. Different children have different needs and all kids process stress differently. If you do notice acting out or other behaviors that indicate adjustment problems, talk to the guidance counselor or the pediatrician about how to proceed.  Share your feelings and encourage the kids to see the move as a family adventure. You're all in it together, and it's important that everyone understands how normal these feelings are. Looking ahead to the new house, new school, and new friends should shortly be an exciting experience.” concluded Joana.

 

Jennifer Darby, broker co-owner added, "Joana comes to ERA Justin Realty with years of purchase and sales real estate experience. She is a people-person and knows that strong business relationships will result in successful purchases and sales. We proudly boast, 'There is a difference in real estate companies.' Her career is based on commitment and trust and you will see a strong report with her first time, repeat and investment buyers and sellers."

 

Joana concluded, “This is an overview of how you may want to handle your move.  It is our pleasure to assist our buyers and sellers throughout the entire process.  Reach any of our sales professionals at either of our two Rutherford offices at 118 Jackson Avenue or 57 Park Avenue.  By phone, (201) 939-7500, (201) 438-0588 or (201) 438-SOLD.”  Additional information about ERA Justin Realty is available on their 1000's of homes websites at www.ERAJustin.com and www.ERAJustinRealty.com.

                               

Joana Iliescu Joins ERA Justin Realty

Joana Iliescu Joins ERA Justin Realty

For 65 years, ERA Justin Realty has always prided itself in attracting career-minded individuals who follow a successful business plan and through that plan develop quickly into successful career Realtor agents, a benefit for their buyers and sellers.

Following their business plan, hiring licensed agents and giving them the training for success in the current real estate industry, Joana Iliescu was excited to join the firm.

Jennifer Darby, broker co-owner said, “Joana comes to ERA Justin Realty with 14 years of purchase and sales real estate experience working with Fara Espandi a successful agent with the firm. She is a people-person and knows that strong business relationships will result in successful purchases and sales at our firm.  Joana's attributes fit our business plan perfectly.  For these reasons she schooled and obtained her real estate sales license. We proudly boast, ‘There is a difference in real estate companies.’ Her career is based on commitment and trust and you will see a strong rapport with her first time, repeat and investment buyers and sellers.

Joana said, “Through the years I've learned that success comes only through trust, integrity and hard work. I have a Bachelor of Science degree in business management and have worked in the hospitality industry in a management position.  I am dedicated, focused and extremely goal oriented. The combined knowledge I've attained positions me to well serve my buyers and sellers and to exceed their expectations.”

Joana, originally from New York has resided in Rutherford since 2000 with her husband and children. In her free time she likes to cook, enjoys fitness and loves a good movie. Besides English she is fluent in Romanian.

She added, "I am very proud to be working for ERA Justin Realty, a company that has a great reputation and has a staff that immediately welcomed me to their family of agents. I am excited to launch my career with them.  They have a great name throughout Bergen County and they are recognized as a market leader in the communities they serve.”

Jennifer concluded, “Joana with her professionalism will excel with us. All of us at ERA Justin Realty are excited that she has selected our firm. We offer for review our growing report, ‘Real Estate Results In Writing’ nearing 800 reviews and testimonials from our very satisfied buyers and sellers. For these reasons ERA Justin Realty should be your buying and selling Realtor of choice.”

Joana and all of our ERA Justin Realty full service Realtor agents can be reached at either of our 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 our websites at www.ERAJustin.com and www.ERAJustinRealty.com.