BUYING AND HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATIONS

BUYING AND HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATIONS

When searching for a home, you may end up selecting a property in a community with a Homeowners Association (HOA). Before you buy, it’s important to know how an HOA works and what they mean for you. Peggy McLaughlin, Broker Sales Associate with ERA Justin Realty provides an overview of what HOAs are and whether or not they are the type of property for you.

What is An HOA?

A Homeowners Association is a nonprofit organization, made up of a leadership team or board of directors that makes and enforces rules for multiple-unit buildings like condominiums and townhouses and planned communities of single-family homes. These members are elected by residents and meet regularly to review community affairs. 

If you buy a property with an HOA, you’ll be required to join its homeowners association. As a member of the homeowners association, you agree to abide by the HOA’s rules and regulations, which are designed to keep your community safe, clean, and visually cohesive and appealing, and to pay dues, known as HOA fees. An HOA will usually have its rules in a document called a Declaration of Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions (CC&R).

But all homeowners associations aren’t the same in services or cost. Peggy says, “Fees can differ even within a development, due to variations in square footage, location, and orientation, all of which can affect how much upkeep and maintenance the property requires. Thus, the more features included in the community, the more you’ll pay in HOA fees.”

Condominium HOAs

A condominium is like an apartment you own. You own the interior of your property, but the HOA owns the exterior and all common areas. 

Condo HOAs tend to have the most restrictive rules—covering everything from where you park to what color your window treatments can be, to whether or not (and what type) of holiday decorations you can display in your front windows or entryways. The HOA can also manage any fitness centers, swimming pools, parking garages and storage units. 

 

Townhouse HOAs

Townhouse HOAs usually provide the same types of features and amenities that condo HOAs do, but they’re typically not as restrictive. Because you also own the exterior of your townhouse, you have a little more control over what you can do with it. While there may be rules about what types of landscaping you can have and what color your mailbox is, you can usually put up Christmas lights without having to fill out two or three forms. Your townhouse community may also include a pool, clubhouse and fitness center, and the HOA will manage those.

Single-family residence HOAs

Single-family residence HOAs generally cover common areas such as neighborhood parks, green spaces, sidewalks, and swimming pools. Homeowners are responsible for their own home and yard maintenance.

It is important to know the type of HOA you are entering before committing long-term. Peggy continues “My advice would be to carefully read over the rules and understand the restrictions. New homeowners can get caught up on wanting a particular home that they glance at or overlook some restrictions that may not readily impact them when they move in. They need to consider future implications such as outdoor holiday decorations or whether or not they can own a pet.”

When you’re looking at a potential property to buy, it’s important to have an experienced professional, such as Peggy McLaughin, who can help you understand the neighborhood’s HOA structure and fees. To help you find your next home, contact any one of our ERA Justin Realty Sales Associates at 201.939.7500. ERA Justin Realty has sold 3 times more homes in Rutherford than the nearest competitor, based on statistics from NJMLS. We are located at 118 Jackson Avenue or 57 Park Avenue in Rutherford.

PEGGY McLAUGHLIN OFFERS TYPES OF REAL ESTATE

PEGGY McLAUGHLIN OFFERS TYPES OF REAL ESTATE

According to Peggy McLaughlin, an ERA Justin Realtor agent, "The Internal Revenue Service considers four different types of real estate when doing their calculations. Specific types of properties have benefits based on their classification. This determination does not depend on the property itself as much as it depends on how the property is used and what the owner's intentions are. As guidance, it is suggested that you review the following with your accountant or tax representative, as tax laws and incentives change without notification to the public."

Principal Residence ... a principal residence is a place a person lives or expects to return if they are temporarily away from it. It could be a single-family, detached home or condominium or a duplex, tri-plex or four-unit. The owner(s) can deduct the qualified mortgage interest and property taxes on Schedule A of their tax return. There is a capital gains exclusion on a profit of up to $250,000 for a single taxpayer and up to $500,000 for a married taxpayer.

Income Property - is improved property that is rented or leased to tenants as opposed to using it personally. It can include houses and condos, apartment buildings, office complexes, shopping centers, warehouses, and other commercial buildings. Depreciation is allowed on the improvements. For property held more than one year, the profits are taxed at long-term capital gains rates. This type of property is eligible for a tax-deferred exchange.

Investment Property ... can be raw land or improved property that is not rented or leased. This property is not subject to depreciation. If the property is held for more than one year, the profits are taxed at long-term capital gains rates. It is also eligible for a tax-deferred exchange.

Dealer Property ... this type of property is primarily considered inventory because the intention is to sell it without intentionally holding it for more than a year. It could be new construction such as a home builder. It could be an investor who buys a property and expects to sell it for more. There is not a requirement to make improvements. The profits on dealer property are taxed as ordinary, "sweat of the brow" income. Dealer properties cannot be exchanged.

A second home is like a principal residence in that you can deduct the interest and property taxes on your Schedule A, up to the limits. A second home, as well as a principal residence, can be rented out up to 14-days a year without threatening the status of the property. Seconds homes are not eligible for exchange because personal use properties are not allowed. A second home is not a principal residence and profits are taxed like an investment property. If you own it for more than a year, it is taxed at long-term capital gains rates.

Vacation homes are rented for more than 14 days a year and are like income property but with some additional rules that apply. If your personal use is 14 days or less or 10% of the time it is rented, your expenses can be deducted in excess of income. If you use it for more than 14 days or more than 10% of the number of days it is rented, it is considered personal use and your expenses are limited to the amount of income collected with no losses being deductible.

Taxpayers can strategically change the property type based on their intentions. A principal residence can be converted to income property. Dealer property could become a principal residence. A rental property could become a principal residence.

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. Also, view 1000s of homes at their websites at www.ERAJustin.com and www.ERAJustinRealty.com.

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.

PRICING YOUR HOUSE PROPERLY FOR SALE 2017

PRICING YOUR HOUSE PROPERLY FOR SALE 2017

ERA Justin Realty's Peggy McLaughlin with decades of real estate experience and multi-hundreds of listings and closed sales has the proper focus and answers. Ask her how to price a house for sale and she will tell you the answer you will  hear over and over again is realistically. But who is the best judge of a home's true value - the homeowner, a real estate sales agent, a bank or true market closed sales transactions?

“When a homeowner wants to sell their house, they may have different views of what their home is worth. If you are thinking of selling your house in the near future and want to know for how much it could sell, then you should contact a professional Realtor agent at our firm and request a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) to determine its fair market value,” recommends Peggy.

The fair market value of a house is the highest price an informed buyer will pay.  A homeowner's asking price is the advertised price of a house when it goes on the market and may be set slightly higher than the fair market value because it is assumed that some negotiation will be necessary to reach an agreement with a buyer. To get an estimate of the fair market value, a homeowner can call the ERA Justin Realty sales team and ask for a Comparative Market Analysis, a service which is provided free of charge and without obligation.

"In conducting a CMA, our ERA Justin Realty sales professionals have access to a wide array of information, such as databases containing recent listing and selling prices of similar homes in the neighborhood, and how long these homes took to sell. The resulting analysis can help a homeowner understand what changing markets has done to the price of his or her home, and will provide a realistic figure of the home's fair market value. Within the past years, real estate values have escalated.  If a home is then put on the market, our sales professionals will use the CMA to help the homeowner establish a selling marketing program," added Peggy.

Our CMA information is very helpful in determining the true value of a house and the right asking price. In the end, however, the homeowner should cautiously 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, noting that on social media there are websites the give estimates of value without having the exacting details or market information on the subject house.  Once sold be it further remembered that if sold with a new mortgage that the house must bank apprised in order for a loan to be granted.

Ron Darby and Jennifer Darby Metzger ERA Justin broker owners added, “Our CMA report for our Sellers is truly comprehensive in all aspects sales. including comparable  Complete with color photos and detailed information, it make pricing easier for those planning a sale.”

In business is the esteemed ‘J.D. Power & Associates’ award.  Only outstanding business entities are honored and receive it.  ERA Real Estate was the recipient of ‘Highest Satisfaction for First Time Home Buyers Among Full Service Real Estate Firms.’ Award. For these reasons ERA Justin Realty should be your buying and selling Realtor of choice.

ERA JUSTIN REALTY FIRST HALF 2016 LEADERSHIP CIRCLE ACHIEVERS

ERA JUSTIN REALTY FIRST HALF 2016 LEADERSHIP CIRCLE ACHIEVERS

2016 is a successful real estate year with sales prices affordable for qualified buyers.  The ERA Justin Realty staff of Realtor agent professionals have worked diligently with sellers and buyers to continue to be an area real estate leader since 1950, including being the #1 office in Rutherford closed sales for 15 consecutive years, statistics provided by the New Jersey MLS. 

They have introduced the ERA Sellers Security Plan to area sellers where ERA Justin Realty will sell the house or ERA will buy it.  There are conditions to the plan, which may not be for every seller, but for those with a timeframe deadline, it may be ideal. Additionally, the firm offers the ERA Home Protection Plan, which covers many components of the house for the buyer, when purchased by the seller, and the seller is covered during the listing period while the house is being marketed for sale.  Consumers are invited to review both plan programs with the ERA Justin Realty sales professionals.

Ask the ERA Justin Realty 1st half 2016 award achievers, how how to price your home and the answer you will most likely hear over and over again is realistically as there is continuous competition with current houses on the market.

Ask any of these Leadership Circle achievers to provide you a complimentary Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) and you will receive the answers to your real estate questions. 1st half 2016 achievers include Julia Dagistanli,  Cathy Vick, Jennifer Sullivan, Carol D. Calamari, Rosemarie Zembryski, Peg McLaughlin and Fara Espandi. They want to be your buying and selling Realtor Agents throughout Bergen, Passaic, Essex and Hudson Counties.

 Ron Darby, Broker stated, “If you are thinking of selling your house in the near future and want to know for how much it could sell, then you may contact one of our Realtor sales agent professionals at ERA Justin Realty 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, and how long these houses took to sell. The resulting analysis can help a homeowner reach a realistic figure of fair market value.  When the house is then put on the market we will use the CMA to help the homeowner establish a selling marketing program. The CMA information is very helpful in determining the true value of a house and the right asking price. In the end, however, the homeowner should decide on a price that he or she feels is competitive and consistent with the 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 try to be as comprehensive as possible.  In that way, we know that our Buyers and Sellers will hold us all in the highest regard.  Proof of our abilities for our clients and customers shows in these fine award achievers 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. 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 andwww.ERAJustinRealty.com.

ERA-JUSTIN ACHIEVERS POINT WAY TO SPRING AND SUMMER SALES

ERA-JUSTIN ACHIEVERS POINT WAY

TO SPRING AND SUMMER SALES

 

Flowers blooming, lawns greening, leaves on the trees and ERA Justin Realty with strong real estate listings and sales. This is the time when families focus on real estate, but the first question asked is, “How do I price my house?”

 

Ask the ERA Justin Realty first quarter 2016 award achievers Cathy Vick, Peggy McLaughlin, Fara Espandi, Carol Calamari, Julia Dagistanli and the answer you will most likely hear over and over again is realistically. These Leadership Circle achievers will provide a complimentary Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) so you will have the answers to your real estate questions.

 

"If you are thinking of selling your home in the near future and want to know how much it may sell for, then contact a real estate sales professional at our firm and request a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) to determine its fair market value,” recommends both Vick and McLaughlin.

 

“The fair market value of a house is the highest price an informed buyer will pay. A homeowner's asking price is the advertised price of a house when it goes on the market and may be slightly higher than the fair market value because it is assumed that some negotiation will be necessary to reach an agreement with a Buyer,” added Espandi and Calamari.

 

Dagistanli added, “To get an estimate of the fair market value, a homeowner can call our ERA Justin Realty sales team. Our service is provided free of charge and without obligation.”

 

"In conducting a CMA, our ERA Justin Realty sales professionals have access to a wide array of information, such as databases containing recent listing and selling prices of similar homes in the neighborhood, and how long these homes took to sell. The resulting analysis can help a homeowner understand what today's changing markets mean for his or her home, and will provide a realistic figure of the home's fair market value. If a home is then put on the market, our sales professionals will use the CMA to help the homeowner establish a selling marketing program. The CMA information is very helpful in determining the true value of a house and the right asking price. In the end, however, the homeowner should decide on a price that he or she feels is competitive and consistent with the price at which other houses in the area have sold,” said Jennifer Darby Metzger, Broker Co-owner.

 

Ron Darby, Broker Co-owner added, “Our CMA report for our Sellers is truly comprehensive in all aspects. Complete with color photos and detailed information, it makes pricing easier for those planning a sale. Truly, there is a difference in real estate companies, and our details will make the difference. We ask Buyers and Sellers to compare. We believe that in order to exceed expectations of what ERA Justin Realty is about, we don’t offer just real estate basics, we try to be as comprehensive as possible. In that way, we know that our Buyers and Sellers will hold us all in the highest regard. Proof of our abilities for our clients and customers shows in these fine award achievers, honored during the first quarter of 2016 for their production.”

 

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

ERA Justin Realty's Peggy McLaughlin shares Six Reasons to Use a Realtor

ERA Justin Realty's Peggy McLaughlin shares Six Reasons to Use a Realtor

Peggy McLaughlin a career Realtor salesperson who has been a frontrunner with ERA Justin Realty for many years proudly shares six reasons to use a Realtor.

McLaughlin offered, "For a real estate firm to have constant success and growth and a staff of inspired Realtor agents who want to exceed buyer and seller expectations each day, it takes hands on management by their brokers Ron Darby and Jennifer Darby Metzger. Our firm first opened its doors in 1950, sixty five years ago. Since then we have listed and sold thousands upon thousands of houses and we are #1 in consistent closed Rutherford  transactions for 15 consecutive years. I'm pleased to share important information for those seeking a 2016 market price on their home or planning a sale.

Why pay a Realtor a commission to sell your home? After all, a small percentage of homeowners attempt to handle the sale of a home themselves, questionable during varying market conditions  and with the recent mortgage interest rate increases. Before making a decision about whether to go it alone, it is important to have a realistic idea of what is involved in the biggest financial transaction most of us are likely to make. Why work with a Realtor? Here are six reasons to consider:

Reason #1 - Realtors  know your market. Realtors are in a position to know what’s happening in the real estate market, not just in your state and your community, but in your neighborhood. As trained professionals who may have seen hundreds of homes similar to yours and know their features and selling prices, our ERA Justin Realty Realtor agents as well qualified to set a price that can bring the maximum number of offers for your home.

Reason #2 - Realtors  sweat the details. Accurate pricing, qualifying potential buyers, positioning advertising for maximum exposure, evaluating potential offers, negotiation and closing the sale are some of the basic skills needed to successfully sell your home. We are there for you. Then there are environmental, government and disclosure requirements that must be followed. ERA Justin Realty does this each day as part of each transaction.

Reason #3 - Realtors  know marketing. Marketing that attracts offers, not just lookers. A coordinated marketing campaign using the right combination of advertising, direct mail and the Internet ensures your home receives maximum exposure. And our experienced Realtors can advise you on cost-effective strategies for ensuring your home looks its best to potential buyers.

Reason #4 - Realtors are pros at bringing buyers and sellers together. An ERA Justin Realtor  may already have a buyer for your home! Successful Realtors  are continually replenishing their rosters of potential buyers, as well as networking with other real estate professionals who may have the perfect buyer for your home. Our team are pros.

Reason #5 - Realtors reduce stress. Are you prepared to show your home in the middle of the day? Every weekend? ERA Justin Realtors have the time to show your home whenever it is convenient for a potential buyer with your availability in mind.  It’s our job. And they we are available to respond quickly and courteously to inquiries by phone call, email and text. Think of us, your Realtor as your personal home sales assistant.

Reason # 6 - Realtors  are experienced negotiators. Our Realtors  can help avoid costly errors during the negotiation phase of a transaction. As experienced negotiators, we can help maintain objectivity during what can often be an emotional time for sellers and buyers. And the ability to deal successfully with any issues that crop up often calls for just the right combination of firmness and diplomacy. We do this each day of each year."

Whether you are a seller or a buyer, perhaps the biggest benefit our ERA Justin Realtor professionals and management teams have to offer to you is our experience. We have made assisting buyers and sellers our business, so that you can get on with the business, and pleasure, of realizing your dream! 

The firm proudly received the prestigious ERA world-wide Commitment to Excellence Award, one of ERA's prestige firms from all across the nation and is also a Top-100  ERA real estate firm. Only outstanding business entities are honored and receive these accolades. 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. Also view 1000's of homes at their winning websites at www.ERAJustin.com and www.ERAJustinRealty.com.

ERA Justin Realty 1st half 2015 Leadership Circle Achievers

Share Knowledge on Timely Topics

 

In addition to being the ERA Justin Realty Leadership Circle achievers for January through June 2015, Carol D. Calamari, Cathy Vick, Grace Tirrito, Kristen Davis, Peggy McLaughlin, Fara Espandi, Glenn Elliot, Morgan DePalma and Ilene Harpuder  have all offered their knowledge to North Jersey Newspaper readers on a variety of topics. Throughout the year topics offered included, 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.

Although showing and selling real estate is a 365 day and night job for these ERA Justin Realty Realtor agents, their responsibilities go beyond what the public sees.  The firm has a vast resource library of important topics to share with the public.  These market leaders and their brokers, 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. 

Darby added, “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. Proof of our abilities for our clients and customers shows in these fine award achievers.”

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

ERA JUSTIN ACHIEVERS POINT WAY TO SPRING AND SUMMER SALES

ERA Justin Realty's first quarter 2015 top sales and listing achievers. Standing L to R: Grace Tirrito, Peggy McLaughlin, Fara Espandi. Seated: Carol D. Calamari, Glenn Elliot and Kristen Davis.

 

ERA JUSTIN ACHIEVERS POINT WAY TO SPRING AND SUMMER SALES

Flowers  blooming, lawns greening, leaves on the trees and ERA Justin Realty with strong real estate listings and sales. This is the time when families focus on real estate, but the first question asked is, “How do I price my house?”

 

Ask the ERA Justin Realty first quarter 2015 award achievers, and the answer you will most likely hear over and over again is "realistically.” Ask any of the Leadership Circle achievers who provide a complimentary Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) and you will have the answers to your real estate questions.  They include Grace Tirrito, Peggy McLaughlin, Fara Espandi, Carol D. Calamari, Glenn Elliot and Kristen Davis

 

 "If you are thinking of selling your home in the near future and want to know for how much it could sell, then contact a real estate sales professional at our firm and request a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) to determine its fair market value,” recommends both Grace Tirrito and Peggy McLaughlin. 

 

“The fair market value of a house is the highest price an informed buyer will pay.  A homeowner's asking price is the advertised price of a house when it goes on the market and may be slightly higher than the fair market value because it is assumed that some negotiation will be necessary to reach an agreement with a Buyer,” added Fara Espandi and Carol D. Calamari.

 

Glenn Elliot added, “To get an estimate of the fair market value, a homeowner can call our ERA Justin Realty sales team. Our service is provided free of charge and without obligation.”
"In conducting a CMA, our ERA Justin Realty sales professionals have access to a wide array of information, such as databases containing recent listing and selling prices of similar homes in the neighborhood, and how long these homes took to sell. The resulting analysis can help a homeowner understand what today's changing markets mean for his or her home, and will provide a realistic figure of the home's fair market value.  If a home is then put on the market, our sales professionals will use the CMA to help the homeowner establish a selling marketing program. The CMA information is very helpful in determining the true value of a house and the right asking price. In the end, however, the homeowner should decide on a price that he or she feels is competitive and consistent with the price at which other houses in the area have sold,” said Kristen Davis.

 

Ron Darby, Broker Co-owner added, “Our CMA report for our Sellers is truly comprehensive in all aspects.  Complete with color photos and detailed information, it makes pricing easier for those planning a sale.  Truly, there is a difference in real estate companies, and our details will make the difference. We ask Buyers and Sellers to compare.  We believe that in order to exceed expectations of what ERA Justin Realty is about, we don’t offer just real estate basics, we try to be as comprehensive as possible.  In that way, we know that our Buyers and Sellers will hold us all in the highest regard.  Proof of our abilities for our clients and customers shows in these fine award achievers, honored during the first quarter of 2015 for their production.”

 

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

ERA Justin Realty Leadership Circle Achievers Share their Knowledge

                       

Pictured clockwise the ERA Justin Realty 2014 Leadership Circle team, Julia Dagistanli, Carol D. Calamari, Glenn Elliot, Cathy Vick, Jennifer Darby Metzger, Fara Espandi, Peggy McLaughlin and Kristen Davis who demonstrate their best-of-the-best knowledge for their sellers and buyers and know the secrets to real estate success. 

ERA Justin Realty Leadership Circle Achievers Share their Knowledge

 

In addition to being ERA Justin Realty Leadership Circle achievers for the first half of 2014, for achievement in representing their buyers and sellers in listings and sales, Julia Dagistanli, Carol D. Calamari, Glenn Elliot, Cathy Vick, Jennifer Darby Metzger, Fara Espandi, Peggy McLaughlin and Kristen Davis know the secret to real estate success.  It's second nature for these Realtor brokers and agents who are an instrumental part of the ERA Justin Realty 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. It becomes automatic for them through the days months and years.

 

They have also offered their knowledge to readers on a variety of topics.  Throughout the year topics offered in the South Bergenite, include 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.

 

Recently announced, ERA Justin Realty continues as a Top-100 ERA firm nationwide as they serve Bergen, Passaic, Hudson and Essex counties. The firm was recently singled out from over 30,000 ERA brokers and agents globally to be honored in Los Angeles where they received the ERA Circle of Light Award for their work with buyers, sellers, community and charitable efforts.

 

If you are considering the sale of a home and want to know the facts of the 2014 summer into fall real estate market, including current pricing, you should contact one of the Leadership Circle achievers at our firm and request a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) at no cost or obligation to determine its true market value as well as the market forecast. Due to continuing market changes, any of our professionals will be pleased to provide a current market price analysis of your home.

 

In conducting a CMA, our ERA Justin Realty Leadership Circle achievers have access to a wide array of information, such as databases containing current listing and selling prices of similar homes in the neighborhood. The resulting analysis can help a homeowner understand the current market and will provide a realistic figure of the home's fair market value.  If a home is then put on the market, we can use the CMA results to help the homeowner establish a selling marketing program. The CMA information is very helpful in determining the true value of a house and the right asking price. In the end, however, the homeowner should decide on a price that he or she feels is competitive and consistent with the price at which other homes in the area have sold.

 

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 professionals and their brokers, 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.

 

Speaking of these achievers, “There is a difference in real estate companies,” stated Cathy Vick. “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 and buyers have put their thoughts in writing. We have on file for the asking, What people are saying, our report of over 700 reviews.  No other area real estate firm can offer that.”

 

“Our ERA Justin Realtor professionals are our best-of-the-best through the first half of 2014. They achieved our Leadership Circle status for their efforts above and beyond for their sellers and buyers. We invite others who would like to be sales associates join our team. Licensed, or would like to be licensed, you're invited to join us,"  added broker Jennifer Darby Metzger.

 

For more information about 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 or 57 Park Avenue. By phone at (201) 939-7500, (201) 438-0588 or (201) 438-SOLD.  Additional real estate information is also available at the firms 1000's of homes websites at www.ERAJustin.com and www.ERAJustinRealty.com. 

Margaret "Peggy" McLaughlin Proudly Displays Reviews

Margaret "Peggy" McLaughlin one of ERA Justin Realty's core group of Realtor salespersons has been known throughout Bergen, Passaic, Hudson and Essex Counties since beginning in real estate in the mid 1970's. During these years Peggy successes were known from town to town. Nothing has changed except she is even better known today for her focus for her buyers and sellers. Read just a sampling of reviews.

~~~~~~~

"Peggy is the utmost professional-trustworthy, responsive & informative. We found our house on our own but called her in on the sale due to our prior great experience with the purchase of our first home. Originally I was a walk-in and Peggy treated us with respect and we became one. Peggy was extremely accessible and willing to take my calls at any time of day and helpful at putting my anxiety at rest. I would recommend her in a heartbeat! Thanks!"

"Peggy has sold 2 of our houses and we have bought one from her. She makes you feel comfortable, there is no pressure and she is always very honest and supportive when needed. I will always recommend her and consider her the best at her profession."

"All superlatives! Enthusiastic. Energetic. Friendly. Professional. We are pleased!"

"Thank you so much Peggy for your help, kindness and professionalism. It is very much appreciated. You will be highly recommended!!"

"She was wonderful. We will recommend her to any of our friends looking to buy or sell their home."

"Peggy was a professional. She made this transaction a pleasant experience."

"Peggy was wonderful! She did a lot of legwork for us! She really listened, she knew our likes and dislikes right away! Thank you Peggy!!!"

"I did business with Peggy and I'm very satisfied. I became acquainted with her through seeing an ERA Justin Realty sign. I will use Peggy in Real Estate again."

"Peggy handled my sale and purchase with an ease and attention to detail that cannot be matched in the real estate profession. I cannot say enough about such , gracious and reassuring sales .:associate

"Thank you. Peggy was a professional. She made this transaction a pleasant experience."

"Peggy handled the transaction very professionally and friendly. Always accommodating and helpful. Thank you Peggy."

"Great company! Peggy is a wonderful salesperson and great to work with!"

"I would recommend this ERA Associate to a friend or family member"

ERA Justin Realty 2013 Circle of Light Community Leadership Award Finalist

ERA Justin Realty teammates put finishing touches toward their long-term efforts in creating the ERA Starfish Project.  Pictured left to right: Fara Espandi, Carol D. Calamari Jennifer Darby Metzger, Cathy Vick, Michelle Korosy and Peggy McLaughlin all recognized with other ERA Justin Realty teammates by ERA Corporate as a finalist for the 2013 Circle of Light Community Leadership Award to be presented at the ERA International Business Conference, Los Angeles, California in March.

ERA Justin Realty 2013 Circle of Light Community Leadership Award Finalist

Bergen County, New Jersey:  ERA Real Estate, a leading global real estate corporate brand, has named ERA Justin Realty Co. of  Rutherford, N.J., a 2013 Circle of Light for Community Leadership Award Finalist for consistent commitment to both community service and business. 

Led by Brokers-Owners Ronald Darby, Carol Darby and Jennifer Darby Metzger and their team, ERA Justin Realty Co. recently launched The ERA Starfish Project, an effort to make a difference in the communities they serve by dedicating their time to a wide range of charities including the Muscular Dystrophy Association, American Cancer Society, local girls softball teams, ERA Organic Fresh, supporting local farmers and growers, bringing vegetables and fruits to the communities,  Rutherford Newcomers Club, Returning Veterans clothing drives and the local food pantries  – to name a few. 

“Serving our customers and our communities through leadership and commitment is at the core of ERA Real Estate’s operating principles,” said Charlie Young, president and CEO of ERA Franchise Systems LLC. “The Circle of Light for Community Leadership Award recognizes companies that embrace this philosophy through community service and charitable works that greatly impact the areas where they work and live. Ron, Carol, Jen and their team have long been committed to serving their local communities, as well as business excellence, and we are proud to have them as part of our network. They are also celebrating their 30th anniversary with our ERA family. Their ERA Starfish Project, so aptly named, helps vast groups as well as one person at a time.

The Circle of Light for Community Leadership Award recognizes companies who do extraordinary things for communities and people in need. These affiliates give time, raise funds and provide resources to worthy causes, thereby creating a culture of civic service within their companies and establishing themselves as a leader within their community.

"Ron Darby, Broker added, "At ERA Justin Realty the words, ‘There is a difference in real estate companies’ is more than a phrase. We live it every day.  Because of our daily priorities, we continuously received the prestigious ERA world-wide ‘Commitment to Excellence Award’ selected as a recipient from approximately 2,600 ERA offices nationally. For these reasons ERA Justin Realty has been selected by thousands of buyers and sellers as their Realtor of choice since 1950."  

All of the ERA Justin Realty full service sales professionals can be reached at (201) 939-7500, (201) 438-0588 or (201) 438-SOLD.  Additional cutting-edge real estate technology also information awaits you at www.ERAJustin.com and www.ERAJustinRealty.com.

Reasons to Use an ERA Justin Realtor Agent vs Going it Alone

Reasons to Use an ERA Justin Realtor Agent vs Going it Alone

 

ERA Justin Realty Leadership Circle award achievers (Standing) Grace Tirrito, Rosemarie Zembryski, Glenn Elliot, Cathy Vick, Ilene Harpuder, June Incorvaia, Carol D. Calamari, Peggy McLaughlin, Carol Darby. (Seated) Kristen Davis, Fara Espandi, Julia Dagistanli, Karen Kelly, Michelle Korosy and (not pictured) Jennifer Darby Metzger, your trusted Realtor agents and brokers and their company, in real estate since 1950, serving Bergen, Passaic, Hudson and Essex Counties has completed a strong 2013 in listings, sold and closed residential and commercial real estate.

 

Their statistics include being #1 in Rutherford closed sales for the past 13 years. ERA real estate has 32 New Jersey offices to serve you. Their New Jersey offices support each other, making their ERA brands strong and on the cutting edge of technology.  That strength including incoming and outgoing referral business brings success in closed transactions and opportunities to buyers and sellers.

 

Michelle Korosy the firm's office coordinator said, "Before making a decision about whether to go it alone, it is important to have a realistic idea of what is involved in the biggest financial transaction most of us are likely to make. Why work with a professional Realtor agent at ERA Justin Realty? Here are six reasons to consider:

 

Reason #1 - Realtors  know your market. The ERA Justin Realtor agents are in a position to know what’s happening in the real estate market, not just in our state and your community, but in your neighborhood. As trained professionals who may have seen hundreds of homes similar to yours and know their features and selling prices, a professional is well qualified to set a price that can bring the maximum number of offers for your home.

 

Reason #2 - Our Realtor agents, brokers and management team focus on the details. Accurate pricing, qualifying potential buyers, positioning advertising for maximum exposure, evaluating potential offers, negotiations and closing the sale are some of the basic skills needed to successfully sell your home. Then there are environmental, government and disclosure requirements that must be followed.

 

Reason #3 - We  know marketing. Marketing that attracts offers, not just lookers. A coordinated marketing campaign using the right combination of print advertising, direct mail and the Internet ensures your home receives maximum exposure. And our experienced Realtor agents can advise you on cost-effective strategies for ensuring your home looks its best to potential buyers."

 

Glenn Elliot added, "Reason #4 - ERA Justin Realtor agents  are pros at bringing buyers and sellers

together. We may already have a buyer for your home! Successful Realtors agents  are continually replenishing their rosters of potential buyers, as well as networking with other real estate professionals who may have the perfect buyer for your home.

 

Reason #5 - Realtors  work to reduce stress. Are you prepared to show your home in the middle of the day? Every weekend? ERA Justin Realtor agents  schedule showing your home whenever it is convenient for a potential buyer and seller. It’s our job. And they are available to respond quickly and courteously to inquiries by phone call, email, text and fax. Think of our Realtor agents your personal home sales assistant."

 

Carol D. Calamari added, "Reason # 6 - Realtor agents with ERA Justin Realty are experienced negotiators. They work closely with our brokers and management team for you. We can help avoid costly errors during the negotiation phase of a transaction. As experienced negotiators, we can help maintain objectivity during what can often be an emotional time for sellers and buyers. And the ability to deal successfully with any issues that crop up often calls for just the right combination of firmness and diplomacy.

 

Whether you are a seller or a buyer, perhaps the biggest benefit real estate professionals have to offer to you is their experience and we've just touched on a few of the dozens of reasons why we are successful for our buyers and sellers. Ask to see our nearly 800 real estate results in writing publication, winning reviews about our successful services. We have made assisting buyers and sellers our business, so that you can get on with the business, and pleasure, of realizing your dream!"

 

Cathy Vick concluded, "To learn more about ERA Justin Realty, our staff, our sales professionals and our award-recognized programs and services we provide, call our ERA Justin Realty full service real estate 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 1000's of homes at our websites at www.ERAJustin.com and www.ERAJustinRealty.com."

 

ERA Justin Realty's Community Service Group helps make Thanksgiving Special for Area Families

ERA Justin Realtor salespersons, the firm's Community Service Group, prepare

Thanksgiving dinners for families in need. L to R: Fara Espandi with baby Mia, Carol D. Calamari, Grace Tirrito, Ilene Harpuder, Glenn Elliot, Peggy McLaughlin, Michelle Korosy, Julia Dagistanli and Cathy Vick. Not pictured is Jennifer Darby Metzger and Denise Leonessa.

ERA Justin Realty's Community Service Group helps make
Thanksgiving Special for Area Families

The surrounding communities recognize ERA Justin Realty as a real estate market leader since 1950. They are also recognized as the number one agency in sold and closed Rutherford sales for the past twelve years, as well as generating multi-thousands of closed transactions.

Little known is the firm's Community Service group, made up of dedicated ERA Justin Realtor salespersons who also join together for many charitable efforts including volunteers for the Rutherford Community Pantry.

This holiday season is a bit better as the ERA Justin volunteers consisting of Jennifer Darby Metzger, Carol D. Calamari, Ilene Harpuder, Peggy McLaughlin, Cathy Vick, Fara Espandi, Denise Leonessa, Michelle Korosy, Glenn Elliot and Julia Dagistanli worked to provide families with delicious Thanksgiving dinner baskets with turkey, dressing and the fixins' to an abundance of delicious veggies and desserts.

The mission of the Rutherford Community Pantry is to be a volunteer non-profit organization which meets emergency and ongoing needs for food and personal hygiene items for citizens of Rutherford and members of Rutherford Institutions who are referred by an approved agency Their prime mission is to maintain services to keep their visitors free from hunger. They work hard to maintain each individual’s dignity by offering choices for personal needs as well. They have nearly 200 households registered for pantry services. Donations of food or personal hygiene items may be dropped off at the Pantry during the hours of operation. For larger donations, please call the Pantry to arrange a drop-off time. The Rutherford Community Pantry is a joint effort of community faith congregations, organizations, and concerned citizens.

They also gratefully accept tax-deductible monetary donations payable to Rutherford Community Pantry, Inc. and they may be sent to The Rutherford Borough Hall, 176 Park Avenue, Rutherford, NJ 07070. By phone, (201) 460-3000 x3168.

To participate or donate your time with the ERA Justin Community Service Group contact them at ERA Justin Realty. The firm has been honored as a ‘Top-100’ ERA firm worldwide from over 2,600 ERA offices and is the recipient of the ‘ERA Commitment to Excellence’ award, who received this prestigious award nationwide for many consecutive years.

To speak with any of their agents, phone them or view their websites at www.ERAJustin.com, www.ERAJustinRealty.com and www.BuyBergenCounty.com. Their office phones are (201) 939-7500, (201) 438-0588 or (201) 438-SOLD.