ERA Justin Realty Offers Online Video Property Tours

 

                            ERA Justin Realty Offers Online Video Property Tours 

Cathy Vick known throughout Bergen, Passaic, Hudson and Essex Counties for her expertise in real estate sales reviews one of the technology advances offered by ERA Justin Realty which enables consumers to view ERA Justin Realty property listings through an online video tour, making home buying and selling easier. 

Considered by many to be a technology leader in the real estate industry and an  'ERA Top-100' real estate firm nationwide, ERA Justin Realty features video tours in today's fast-paced and technologically advanced real estate market.  Video tours offer home sellers advantages similar to viewing a 24-hour a day, seven-day a week open house, at the home buyers convenience. 

Vick said, “Our video tours include multi-scene views of the interiors and exteriors of ERA Justin listed properties. Online visitors can tour properties at any hour from their home, office, or from anywhere in the world. The expectations of today's real estate home buyers and sellers are high, and as millions of viewers use the internet to look for a home, it is critical to have the best tools to promote our listings online. Video tours help potential buyers view a property's attributes so much better than just a text description or a single photo of a house; for example, consumers can possibly view what is on the other side of the street and next door. ERA Justin Realty offers this additional service to each of our sellers on every listing that we market for sale.  When we post a video tour, it is available on our websites, www.ERAJustin.com, www.ERAJustinRealty.com as well as www.Realtor.com and many others from which we market our seller’s homes. Thousands  of area sellers have selected ERA Justin Realty as their Realtor of choice each year since 1950.  We work to exceed their expectations and that makes us truly proud.”

Continuing, she said, “Online video tours also increase a listing's exposure to potential buyers.  More exposure means more pre-approved buyers to potentially see each listing.  More exposure potentially brings more buying contracts to be considered, giving each seller a better opportunity to sell their house at a potential higher price. Buyers who view video tours are strong prospects.  There is no cost to our sellers for this added value service.”

Buyers and Sellers interested in learning more about ERA Justin Realty’s online video tours can reach any of the ERA Justin Realty sales professionals who will be pleased to provide extensive details.

 

Continuing, Vick said, “Because of our daily priorities, we've proudly received on numerous occasions the prestigious ERA world-wide  ‘Commitment to Excellence Award’from approximately 30,000 ERA brokers and agents.  All across the nation, the one of the strongest 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.’ Award.  For these reasons ERA Justin Realty should be your buying and selling Realtor of choice.”

 

She then concluded,  “All of our ERA Justin Realty full service Realtors 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 our website at www.ERAJustin.com and www.ERAJustinRealty.com."

 

 

ERA Justin Realty: How Accessibility Features Can Serve Homeowners of All Ages and Abilities

As members of the baby boom generation reach retirement age, many focus on aging in place within their homes. ERA Justin Realty, marketing new listings each week can review features which may be important to those reaching retirement.

 

                          ERA Justin Realty: How Accessibility Features Can Serve Homeowners of All Ages and Abilities

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 retirement 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 Realty Broker, Ron Darby.

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.

Darby 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 our 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 home ownership a clear one.”

ERA Justin Realty, a leading area Realtor serving Bergen, Passaic, Hudson and Essex Counties since 1950 is part of the ERA national and  global real estate network which was a 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.'

Darby 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, ERAJustin.com and ERAJustinRealty.com."

ERA Justin Realty heading toward 2014 with First Homebuyer Tips

Julia Dagistanli, Realtor salesperson with ERA Justin Realty offers first homebuyer tips. Having received many positive reviews and production awards, New Jersey Monthly Magazine honored her with highest in overall satisfaction in 2011 and 2013.

ERA Justin Realty heading toward 2014 with First Homebuyer Tips

ERA Justin Realty, a leading real estate firm and a Realtor of choice since 1950 serves the many communities of Bergen, Passaic, Essex and Hudson Counties and has sold thousands of homes to repeat and first time homebuyers.  Seeing shifts in the industry from seller’s markets to buyer’s markets as well as varied shifts in mortgage interest rates, historically their buyers have enjoyed both the benefits of home ownership as well as value appreciation over the years. 

ERA Justin Realtor salesperson, Julia Dagistanli stated, “It is now year end and if you are contemplating the purchase of your first home, congratulations! As you probably know, buying a home is one of the biggest financial commitments you can make. It is also a process filled with anticipation and excitement. To help keep you sleeping soundly, here are answers to three big questions that interest many potential first-time homeowners.

Question #1: How do I decide what to look for in a home?  It’s easier than you think. Sit yourself down and list what’s important to you in a home. The purchase of every home involves making tradeoffs, so be sure to prioritize your list.  One element is architectural style. Do you prefer a Colonial, a Cape Cod or a modern look? An important factor to consider is living space. How much room do you need right now, and to meet anticipated needs?  Make a list of features that must be a part of your home. Perhaps that Olympic-size pool and tennis court can be put off for another day, but you may absolutely need an eat-in kitchen now.  It’s all a matter of your taste and personal style.

Question #2: Where should I begin the search?  That old real estate adage about “location, location, location” aside, choosing where to live is usually determined by your personal circumstances and desires.  Do you have a particular community, or even a particular block, in mind?  What is it about the location of your new home that is most important to you?  Do you prefer an urban, suburban or rural setting? Consider proximity to work, schools, shopping, entertainment and houses of worship. Once you’ve narrowed your list of potential candidates, the ERA Justin Realty winning search websites can be an excellent tool for learning what a particular community has to offer.

Question #3: How can I find financing that makes sense for me? Homes are affordable for qualified buyers. Interest rates are the lowest than we’ve seen in decades. Innovative financing plans are available to fit a broad range of needs.

Still, the last thing you want to do is start out in your first home saddled with an uncomfortable level of debt. Seeking the advice of one of our ERA Justin Realtor salesperson who can give you the details on financing options that match your qualifications is a big step in the right direction.

Once you’ve narrowed your search, talk to one of our ERA Justin Realty real estate professionals who serves the community you’d like to call home. Our teammates are trained to guide you through your purchase every step of the way. Our websites www.ERAJustin.com and www.ERAJustinRealty.com bring up-to-date listings directly to you, and we can suggest many mortgage lenders who offer loan programs expressly designed to meet the needs of qualified first-time homebuyers.

The path to finding your first home is exciting. Once you have the answers to the big questions, the search can be fulfilling, and even fun!"

Ron Darby, ERA Justin Realty Broker Co-owner concluded, “ERA Justin Realty proudly received the prestigious ERA world-wide 2003 - 2012 ‘Commitment to Excellence Award’, selected from 30,000 ERA brokers and agents nationwide. Only outstanding business entities are honored and receive it.  ERA Real Estate was also a past recipient of ‘Highest Satisfaction for First Time Home Buyers Among Full Service Real Estate Firms’ and ‘Highest Satisfaction for First Time Home Sellers.’ through J.D. Powers.  For these reasons ERA Justin Realty should be your buying and selling Realtor of choice."

The ERA Justin Realty full service Realtor salespersons 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.

ERA Justin Realty Tips: Investing in Curb Appeal and Staging When Selling

ERA Justin Realtor salesperson Rosemarie Zembryski offers information which can mean a faster sale in a competitive real estate market. A graduate of the ERA Top-Gun Academy, Rosemarie's focus to her buyers and sellers is evident as she details in this article.

 

ERA Justin Realty Tips: Investing in Curb Appeal and Staging When Selling

 

Rosemary Zembryski, a Realtor salesperson with ERA Justin Realty offers suggestions to sellers.  "We have been a Realtor of choice to thousands of buyers and sellers since 1950. Our team knows the correct advice for a successful sale. It may seem counterintuitive to invest money in a home you’re selling. Wouldn't it be better to save that money for improvements on your next home?  Even though the home sale market has improved impressively,  not necessarily in price, but in homes sold,  buyers may still pay more for homes they can move right into without having to do work. This is not to say that buyers won't buy homes that need updating, but they need to be able to see the potential. And the property needs to be priced right for the market, taking into account work that needs to be done.

 

Hypothetically, a home was sold in a residential neighborhood. It was owned by one family for more than 50 years. The property had deferred maintenance and a dated décor. If the listing had been put on the market before it was partially updated, it may have been harder to sell and would have sold for less than it did with some repairs and tasteful upgrades.

 

Before the sellers ordered a structural pest control ("termite") inspection, they had some obvious defects corrected. This kept the cost of the remaining repairs down. It also improved the appearance of the house. A back porch that was in poor condition and was easily visible was repaired. A pink vinyl bathroom floor was replaced with a neutral vinyl.

 

The most dramatic change was achieved by removing the heavy dark draperies, some dark furnishings and the dark flocked wallpaper in the foyer. The draperies were left off to expose the beautiful wood windows. The house was transformed from a dark, outdated home to a light-filled home with a lot of potential.

 

After personal clutter was out of the house, the shag carpet was removed to expose the beautiful hardwood floors. The interior  paint was touched up as needed, and the house was staged by our ERA Justin team with the existing furniture, artwork and accessories.

 

The house showed beautifully, even though the kitchen and bathrooms were old. The listing sold quickly with a back up offer at the asking price."

 

Realtor salesperson Cathy Vick added, "Improving curb appeal, the way a house looks from the street, usually pays off. For some buyers, curb appeal is so important that they won't even look at a listing that lacks good street presence.

 

Enhancing curb appeal can often be done inexpensively. Trim overgrown plants to a size that allows buyers to see the architectural detail of the house. If the landscaping has been unkempt for years, remove dead plants and add colorful plants before the house goes on the market. Replanting areas of  the lawn adds to the allure of a property."

 

Zembryski continued, "Kitchens and bathrooms are important to today’s homebuyers. However, it wouldn't be prudent to do a complete remodel just before you put your home on the market. You usually can't recoup the investment. Generally, fix-up-for-sale projects should be limited to cost-effective improvements like new paint, replacing outdated light fixtures and replacing worn floor coverings.

 

In the listing described above, the old bathrooms were given cosmetic upgrades. Toilets and pedestal sinks were replaced inexpensively. The original tub in this 1920s home was reglazed to look like new. It turned an eyesore into a bathroom that would please a buyer. You can improve the look of a dated kitchen with new stainless steel appliances, paint, updated light fixtures and a new floor, if necessary. It’s  true that many homes never look as good as when they’re for sale."

 

Vick concluded, “Repeat and referral business is a mainstay of our firm which has taken place thousands of times. We provide buyer and seller articles in North Jersey Newspapers.  Our Realtor salespersons have built a  base of buyers and sellers who count on them to transact their real estate business.  Questions? Call us, we want to perform above your expectations. Because of our daily priorities, ERA Justin Realty proudly received the prestigious ERA 2003- 2012 ‘Commitment to Excellence Award,' as a premier ERA real estate firm. Only outstanding business entities are honored and receive it.   ERA Real Estate was also the recipient of ‘Highest Satisfaction for First Time Home Buyers Among Full Service Real Estate Firms.’ award through J.D. Powers."

 

Ask to see a copy of their more than 700 reviews of their services from their buyers and sellers.  More information is available on their two winning websites, www.ERAJustin.com and www.ERAJustinRealty.com.

 

All ERA Justin Realty full service Realtor salespersons 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.

ERA Justin Realty’s Jennifer Darby Metzger cited by RealSource Association as 2013 Realtor Of The Year

RealSource Association of Realtors President Edward Thor presented ERA Justin Realtor Broker Jennifer Darby Metzger to its membership as the 2013 Realtor Of The Year. A Realtor professional for 20 years, Jennifer was selected for her outstanding participation within the real estate industry. Left to right: June Incorvaia, John Boguszewski, Michelle Korosy, Grace Tirrito, Jennifer Darby Metzger, Carol D. Calamari, Fara Espandi, Ilene Harpuder, Julia Dagistanli, Allyson Kubs, Cathy Vick.

ERA Justin Realty’s Jennifer Darby Metzger cited by 

RealSource Association as 2013 Realtor Of The Year

Overwhelming congratulations were evident as a surprised Jennifer Darby Metzger of ERA Justin Realty was cited by President Edward Thor as the RealSource Association of Realtors 2013 Realtor Of The Year. She was escorted to the podium for her award, singly selected from the association’s 3,500 membership. The honors took place at the association’s 2013 meeting attended by more than 400 Realtors.  RealSource Association of Realtors® is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to serving the professional needs of more than 3,500 Realtor® Members. RealSource is also a member of the National Association of Realtors (NAR) the largest trade association in America.

The RealSource Association of Realtors committee selected Jennifer Darby Metzger for her achievements and business accomplishments. For the last 20 years Jennifer has focused on Realtor and Broker responsibilities including business forums, seminars and International Business Conventions. With a full schedule of running her business and managing the office, she also participates in many events as a speaker, partly because of her involvement and knowledge as a licensed New Jersey Real Estate Instructor.  Her teachings on topics of building a substantial office, establishing strong client communication, creating smooth transactions, building ethically driven best business practices and trust have always been popular topics in her speaking engagements.

Jennifer has also achieved the Gold NJAR Circle of Excellence Award 2005, Silver NJAR Circle of Excellence Award 1999, 2002, 2006, 2007 as well as receiving the New Jersey Association of Realtors Lifetime Membership in the Distinguished Sales Club for achieving ten or more years in the Million Dollar/Circle of Excellence Clubs. She also completed her CRS, SFR & National Trust for Historic Preservation designations. She had been selected and featured as a national Thirty Under Thirty recipient in a major article in Realtor magazine.

She was invited to be a charter member of the ERA Young Leaders Network, a group of successful second generation real estate brokers nationwide.  One recent task that the YLN network focused on was the Tough Mudder competition held in Florida this spring. This event helped raise funds for the Wounded Warriors Project and the ERA Mudders were very successful is raising funds for the cause.

During her real estate career she has worked diligently for charitable efforts, including being the ERA Muscular Dystrophy Co-Chairperson for  New Jersey in fundraising for their kids summer camp programs.  She has also appeared on the MDA Labor Day Telethon to present annual fundraising checks. Collectively, Jennifer with her team have raised nearly $200,000.00 throughout the years.  She is co-founder of ERA Fresh, a community service created where New Jersey farmers grow and supply freshly picked organic vegetables available to area families. The Rutherford Newcomers & Neighbors Club, also founded by Jennifer, brings information to new area residents.

 Jennifer participates with her office teammates in events for the American Cancer Society. There are also silent good Samaritan deeds including her assistance in the ERA Starfish Project, where their motto is "It made a difference to that one..." . She's a member of the Meadowlands Moms Club, a group of moms with infants and young children who meet monthly and share common needs, goals and issues. To sum up what everyone thinks about Jennifer, one of many dozens of letters she received says it all, "I have known Jennifer both personally and professionally for over ten years. Jennifer is one of the most professional and sincere people I know. Jennifer's dedication and compassion for her job has always set her aside from her competition and that has helped her succeed to the position she is in today. I would highly recommend Jennifer for any of your real estate needs."

If you are interested in working on Jennifer's team, she can be reached at either of her two Rutherford offices at 118 Jackson Avenue and 57 Park Avenue, by office phone (201) 939-7500 or visit www.northjerseyrealestatecareers.com.

ERA Justin Realty Home Protection Plans Help To Avoid Money Pit

ERA Justin Realty's June Incorvaia whose lifetime career has been serving buyers and sellers throughout Bergen, Passaic, Essex and Hudson counties gives tips on avoiding the real estate money pit.

ERA Justin Realty Home Protection Plans Help To Avoid Money Pit

Everyone has his or her own "house story." The Sheffields' saga began just days after they moved into their new home and continued throughout the first year. The pool pump broke, the built-in vacuum stopped working, and most devastating, the air conditioning system ceased operating on the first day of the summer heat wave. Thereafter, the Sheffield home was nicknamed  "The Money Pit." 

Fortunately, the Sheffields' had the forethought to purchase a home protection plan from their ERA Realtor, which covered all or some of the costs of repairing or replacing the broken home components.

June Incorvaia ERA Justin Realtor salesperson said, “The Sheffields’ story repeats itself thousands of times a day across the country.  It is for that reason that ERA Justin Realty has the ERA Home Protection Plan program available for both our Buyers and Sellers.”

Incorvaia continued, “A home protection plan safeguards a Buyer or Seller from unexpected expenses when covered mechanical items break down. The ERA Buyer Protection Plan and Seller Protection Plan are fully administered and provide replacement coverage as well as comprehensive repair of major mechanical systems and appliances such as air conditioning, heating and electrical systems, interior plumbing, built-in appliances, water heaters and more, subject to a small deductible per service call.

For Sellers, a home protection plan adds interest to their home sale and protects them at a time when they would rather not make major investments in their property. It has been reported that on average, homes listed with a warranty sell more rapidly than homes listed without a home warranty. The ERA Protection Plan goes one step further by covering the Seller for up to six months provided that the Seller agrees to purchase the plan at a nominal fee for the Buyer. It's a win-win situation for the Seller having protection in place while the house is on the market for sale.

For Buyers in New Jersey, the ERA Protection Plan provides coverage generally for a year after the purchase on resale homes. Ask to see the most current home protection plan coverage agreement as it is subject to conditions, but comprehensive in scope for Buyers and Sellers.

If one considers that the most costly purchase in life is generally one's house, a home protection plan is a small price to pay for peace of mind and to insure oneself against the unexpected.

“There is a difference in real estate companies, and our ERA Protection Plans are perfect examples. We ask Buyers and Sellers to compare.  We believe that in order to exceed expectations of what a real estate consultant 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,” she added.

ERA Justin Realty proudly received the prestigious ERA world-wide 2003 through 2012 ‘Commitment to Excellence Award’,  from  2,600 ERA real estate firms all across the nation. 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.

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 1000s of homes at their website at www.ERAJustin.com.

ERA Justin Realty Adds Success to Fundraising for the Muscular Dystrophy Association

MDA's Show of Strength Telethon event recently took place and invited guests included ERA Justin Realty's Michelle Korosy, Fara Espandi, Carol D. Calamari, Broker Ron Darby, Al Rottini and Allyson Kubs. Friends, MDA families and kids were invited as were other area sponsors. 

ERA Justin Realty Adds Success to Fundraising for the Muscular Dystrophy Association

America, sponsors, and a star-studded celebrity lineup put their strength behind the Muscular Dystrophy Association during a two-hour broadcast and regionally through the help of ERA Justin Realty and its agents and broker, Michelle Korosy, Fara Espandi, Carol D. Calamari, Ron Darby, Al Rottini, Allyson Kubs and others at the company. They were invited to attend the MDA Show of Strength dinner and awards presentation where they previewed an advance showing of the MDA Telethon. With help from the generous American public, MDA sponsors, and a diverse roster of musical performers and celebrity presenters, the 48th annual MDA Show of Strength Telethon raised $59,583,555 to benefit the Muscular Dystrophy Association. The ERA Justin Realty fundraising team was honored to receive the MDA Show of Strength award plaque.

Ron Darby, the ERA real estate MDA chairman for New Jersey fundraising was asked to come to the podium and speak to those who attended. He said, "Viewers respond generously to MDA’s call for donations via the onscreen phone number, texting and online contributions. These dollars enable MDA clinic physicians and staff across America to assist families fighting muscle disease, to fund the best science that can lead to new treatments, and to rally communities to continue to fight back against muscle disease as they set their sights on muscle health.

For 48 years, funds raised by MDA telethons also have contributed to the organization’s worldwide research program. Today, through current clinical trials, there is growing excitement that new lifesaving treatments and discoveries are on the horizon for many of the disorders MDA is dedicated to defeating. MDA's first Labor Day weekend telethon was broadcast in 1966 on a single New York station and has become the most successful fundraising event in the history of television. The show, with Jerry Lewis as its iconic host through 2010, and with help from a legion of top celebrities and entertainers, has raised millions each year to provide life-enhancing support and services for the families MDA serves.

There is a difference in real estate companies and the ERA Justin Realty teams are involved in many charitable efforts within the communities each year. Giving back to the communities is what they do since being a Realtor of choice since 1950. Become a sponsor. Help youngsters with neuromuscular diseases in your community as they experience a week of fun and friendship they’ll never forget at summer camp. 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 their office.

All of the ERA Justin Realtor salespersons 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 their real estate activity at their websites at www.ERAJustin.com and www.ERAJustinRealty.com.

Fixer Uppers a Reality for Buyers in Improving 2013 Real Estate Economy

Carol Darby, Ron Darby and Jennifer Darby Metzger broker co-owners with combined real estate knowledge and experience approaching 100 years gives this team the background to lead their ERA Justin Realtor salespersons to continuous success. The firm, a trusted name in real estate since 1950 suggests purchases of fixer uppers as good choices for the Fall 2013 market.

Fixer Uppers a Reality for Buyers in Improving 2013 Real Estate Economy

Several years ago when the housing market was mired in real estate recession, buyers shied away from houses that needed work. The buyers who weren't put off from buying completely were interested only in turnkey homes that were in move-in condition. ERA Justin Realty has worked within all real estate economic landscapes, is well versed, assists its buyers and sellers and has been your trusted name in real estate since 1950. As we enter the Fall 2013 market, there are many buying and selling opportunities for all.

Carol Darby, ERA Justin Realty broker co-owner offered, "It was risky for some buyers to buy a house that needed work. But now the housing market is recovering and buying a house to fix up seems more reasonable, and is happening. There are basically two types of  'fixer' buyers. One is the flipper who buys a house, spruces it up quickly and sells it at a profit. The goal is not to hold the property as an investment, but to find a buyer as soon as possible after the redo is complete.

Flippers should avoid buying houses that have major problems to remedy, which will eat into profits. A way to maximize profit and minimize carrying costs during the rehab period is to understand the lower price market and if possible buy with all cash. Buy in areas where employment and transportation are good so that you will have a pool of buyers for your product when it’s ready to sell."

Jennifer Darby Metzger, broker co-owner added, "Select the neighborhood. Is it conveniently located? Are houses selling quickly? What is the average days on market from list date to sale date? This information is critical to knowing how fast you can turn the property over to a new buyer. The other type of fixer buyers are those who buy for their own use. They do not intend to flip the property, but want to increase the value of the property over time while providing a roof over their heads. This type of buyer may be willing to pay more for a property than the flipper, but the price paid and the amount spent on improvements should be researched before making a purchase. Ask our ERA Justin Realty team for the sale price of recently sold houses in the neighborhood that were similar to the one you’re considering, but in much better condition. Be sure to review how much the renovations will cost."

Ron Darby, broker co-owner concluded, "Keep a close eye on the costs of your renovations while you’re working on the project. There’s always the temptation to improve more than you had intended once you see how good the improvements you have made look. Even though you’re improving the house for yourself, remember that you will be selling someday and hope for a profit on the time and money you invested. It’s a great time to buy at prices that were not possible at the peak of the market. Just make sure you know values for the neighborhood for a property that needs work. Fixer buyers who paid high prices at the peak of the last market cycle possibly didn't make a profit. The housing market has picked up and will hopefully continue to move in a positive direction. However, the house sale market is continually changing and varies from one location to the next.  A well-informed, level-headed approach is the best bet and our ERA Justin Realtor salespersons can provide you with information so you can make an informed decision."

There is a difference in real estate companies and the ERA Justin Realty broker owner's input makes that difference important. In fact, their buyers and sellers have put their reviews in writing about their Realtor salespersons. They have on file for the asking, 'Real Estate Results In Writing,' their report of nearly 800 quotes, testimonials and reviews from their buyers and sellers.

All of the ERA Justin Realtor salespersons 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 Realty's Cutting Edge Technology for Buyers and Sellers for 2013

Margaret (Peggy) McLaughlin a long-term Realtor salesperson with ERA Justin Realty has been a market leader for decades with listings sold and sales through the firm.  She has achieved the New Jersey Association of Realtors Distinguished Sales Club Award for more than ten years of top production, recognizing her as one of the best-of-the-best throughout Bergen, Passaic, Hudson and Essex Counties.

              

ERA Justin Realty's Cutting Edge Technology for Buyers and Sellers for 2013

Through the power of the Internet, ERA Justin Realty has reached heights with its buyer/seller international websites, viewed by multi-thousands of buyers and sellers each month.

Recognizing the power of the Internet, where approximately 85% of buyers begin their house search, ERA Justin Realty has made its property listings available through strong and productive on-line Internet services.

“We have developed two exclusive winning websites. Each has been a major success for us and a win-win success for our buyers and sellers,” cited Margaret (Peggy) McLaughlin a Rutherford resident and ERA Justin Realtor salesperson who has achieved the New Jersey Association of Realtors Distinguished Sales Club Award for more than ten years of top production, recognizing her as one of the best-of-the-best.

According to Peggy, “Our winning websites were developed to be user friendly and easy to find the information important to a buyer or seller  24 hours a day through both our ‘Our Featured Listings’ and ‘1000’s of Listings’ options. Choosing a single family, multi-family a condo or co-op?  Quick clicks and the information is on the screen with dozens of color photos, a custom virtual video tour and viewing information with instructions to set up a private showing or to inspect during our Open Houses. More quick clicks and one can read about our charitable efforts, community participation as well as information on schools, transportation and other valued information about our communities.”

It’s a comprehensive source of information about ERA Justin Realty and its services. The websites have been designed to provide home buyers and sellers with quick and simple ways to search property listings from anywhere in the world, and to learn helpful information about buying and selling a home. They also post their listings on more than fifty national websites for easy showing appointments.

“Properties listed are updated daily in order to provide current information, greater exposure for seller’s homes and better abilities for buyers to find their dream home online. After customers do their own fact-finding on our websites, they contact us because they value having one of our ERA Justin Realty sales professionals explain community services, growth, and transportation availabilities, provide local school reports and work closely with them in the purchasing process,” concluded Peggy.

Ron Darby, broker added,  “All across the ERA nation, a coveted award that we've achieved is the ‘Commitment to Excellence’ 2003-2012 award.  Only outstanding ERA entities are honored and receive this award from nearly 30,000 ERA brokers and agents. Our team of sales agents work to exceed buyer and seller expectations, and through our efforts this prestigious award has a home at our firm. Peggy is an important part of our participation.”

One can learn more and view the firm’s websites at www.ERAJustin.com and www.ERAJustinRealty.com. Reach all of the ERA Justin Realty sales professionals at either of their two Rutherford office locations at 118 Jackson Avenue or 57 Park Avenue. By phone all can be reached at (201) 939-7500, (201) 438-0588 or (201) 438-SOLD. We want to be your Realtor.



ERA Justin Realty MDA Summer Camp Bowl-a-thon for Kids

ERA brokers, agents and family for the MDA bowl-a-thon left to right:  Denise Leonessa, Kate Korosy, Peggy McLaughlin, Jennifer Darby Metzger, Glenn Elliot, Carol Calamari, Fara Espandi, Kristen Davis, Ilene Harpuder, Al Rottini, Wayne Kubs, Allyson Kubs, Michelle Korosy, Gene Amsel, Don Lamastra with his office team, Ron Darby and Steve Way.

 

                  ERA Justin Realty MDA Summer Camp Bowl-a-thon for Kids

ERA Justin Realty works each year to send many children with Muscular Dystrophy to area summer camp for some fun in the sun while their health permits. The camp is in a structured setting for their needs.

In this effort, an ERA-MDA Bowl-a-thon to raise needed donations for the Muscular Dystrophy Association was recently held at the Wallington Lanes, Wallington, New Jersey by the Realtor agents of ERA Justin Realty Co.  The event was kicked off with success, raising over $8,000.00 which begins their effort toward raising $30,000.00 for 2013.

ERA Justin Realty co-owners Jennifer Darby, Ron Darby and Carol Darby coordinated the event with their agents and family members and was also joined by the team from ERA Suburb Realty of Scotch Plains, Union County, New Jersey.

Ron Darby, chairman for all of ERA offices throughout New Jersey with his fundraising team is coordinating the statewide fundraising event. Their check is to be presented at the national MDA Telethon on Labor Day.

Albert Rottini, one of the firms top fundraisers at ERA Justin Realty said, “We are asking for area residents to help achieve these goals for our MDA kids, whose health may permit them to be part of summer camp this year, but they may not be able to attend in future years. 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.” 

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 (201) 939-7500.

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

New Jersey Association of Realtors awarded ERA Justin Realty Circle of Excellence Awards. Broker-owner Jennifer Darby Metzger, Fara Espandi, Cathy Vick, Broker-owner Ron Darby, Carol D. Calamari, Office coordinator Michelle Korosy and Broker-owner Carol Darby.

                ERA Justin Realty NJAR 2012 Circle of Excellence Awards Presented

Bergen County: Each year the New Jersey Association of Realtors honors its top producers in sales and listings sold. Based upon Realtor production with focus to detail, agents throughout New Jersey are awarded for their outstanding efforts.

It is important to recognize remarkable achievements of the best-of-the-best because of the positive impact that these award achievers have on their buyers, their sellers and the communities in which they conduct their daily real estate business. 

Ron Darby and Carol Darby, ERA Justin Realty brokers and co-owners offered personal accolades to the ERA Justin Realty team of sales professionals and they stated, “When you examine the structure of each real estate transaction, one can appreciate the reasons why these fine sales-professionals have been awarded.  There are groups of individuals involved, including buyers, sellers each with their attorney, mortgage lenders, appraisers and underwriters, home, termite and radon inspectors, community building inspectors for the final certificate of occupancy and other varied inspectors. Add to transactions hand-delivery of documents, dozens of hours on the phone with buyers and sellers and only then can one appreciate the value of this outstanding NJAR award.  Our best-of-the-best 2012 Circle of Excellence Bronze winners include, Jennifer Darby Metzger, Fara Espandi, Cathy Vick, Carol D. Calamari and Grace Tirrito. On hand to offer congratulations at the RealSource Association of Realtors presentation was Ron Darby, Carol Darby and office coordinator, Michelle Korosy.

Korosy added, "We are extremely proud of our achievers team efforts.  Each year they exceed  buyer and seller expectations.  They are truly Realtor brokers and agents of choice and would love to be your Realtor.”

All ERA Justin Realty full service Realtors can be reached at either of their two Rutherford offices at 118 Jackson Avenue and 57 Park Avenue.  By office phone (201) 939-7500, (201) 438-0588 or (201) 438-SOLD. View 1000's of homes at their websites at www.ERAJustin.com and www.ERAJustinRealty.com.

2013 Recommended Work Before Selling

ERA Justin Realtor salesperson Denise Leonessa shares valuable information for 2013 sellers about to put their home on the market. Denise, coming from a salesperson position from another area brokerage is active with buyers and sellers at ERA Justin Realty.

 

ERA Justin's Denise Leonessa Reports On 2013 Recommended Work Before Selling

Sellers often order pre-sale inspection reports. This inevitably raises the question of how much, if any, of the recommended work should be done before selling.  Ideally, any defect that would be hazardous to agents and buyers who preview the property during the sale process should be corrected. An example is a trip hazard that might cause someone to fall. In addition, to maximize your return from the sale, you should repair defects that adversely affect how the property looks.

Denise Leonessa, an ERA Justin Realtor salesperson who transferred from her position at Prudential Professionals  says, “First impressions are important. So, if the fence or entry porch is deteriorating and look shabby, repair them. If the exterior paint is peeling, repaint. You get positive results when you repair a defect and improve appearance by doing so.  For example, let's say that the wood pest (also known as termite) inspector finds damage under the linoleum in a bathroom. If the linoleum is worn and outdated, you'll do better on the sale if you replace the floor covering with a new, trendier one. In the course of doing this the damage can be repaired. The result is that the house shows better and a defect is eliminated--two benefits for the price of one.

You certainly can't be expected to rebuild your home in order to sell it. Nor is this a sensible thing to do economically. As an example, take a house that had a deck that looked okay but wasn't safe. There was extensive damage scattered throughout the deck. The only way to repair the deck was to replace it. It would be difficult to get the job done in the timeframe in which the seller wanted to sell.  The deck was old and no longer met current code requirements. It would have had to be redesigned. So the seller decided to leave the deck as it was and disclose that the deck needed to be replaced. The future owners could have the new deck designed to meet their needs at a later date.

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

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

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

Leonessa concluded, “Your trusted name in real estate since 1950, ERA Justin Realty lives by the words, 'There is a difference in real estate companies.'  Because of our daily priorities, we proudly received the prestigious ERA world-wide ‘Commitment to Excellence Award’, one of 14 premier ERA real estate firms from nearly 2,600 ERA offices. For these reasons ERA Justin Realty should be your buying and selling Realtor of choice.” 

All of the ERA Justin Realty full service sales professionals can be reached at either of their two Rutherford offices at 118 Jackson Avenue and 57 Park Avenue.  By office phone (201) 939-7500, (201) 438-0588 or (201) 438-SOLD.  Additional cutting-edge real estate technology information awaits you at www.ERAJustin.com and www.ERAJustinRealty.com.