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 Report: Smart Sellers Think Like Buyers In Current Housing Market

Ron Darby, Broker and co-owner of ERA Justin Realty has been active in real estate since 1967. His expertise and that of  his staff are responsible for their growth in Bergen, Passaic, Hudson and Essex counties to "ERA Top-100" national status. He offers positive directions for those planning to put their house on the market for sale.

 

ERA Justin Realty Report: Smart Sellers Think Like Buyers In Current Housing Market

 

There are plenty of home buyers intent on buying while they can still lock in a low mortgage rate. So, the 2013 housing market is presenting good opportunities for sellers who understand how to maximize profit in this new selling environment.  The first step is to start thinking like a buyer, not a seller. While buyers are anxious to buy before rates rise, sellers know they are in competition with other homes on the market.

 

Ron Darby, ERA Justin Realty Broker co-owner reported, “As written in Inman News, when the market is rising quickly, buyers are less concerned about overpaying because they're sure they'll recoup the excess payment within a short period because of robust appreciation. This was the psychology of earlier year's. Now, buyers are much more concerned about value.  For this reason, pricing is important in order to create showings.

 

Listings attract attention when they're new on the market. To maximize your opportunities, your home not only needs to be priced right and properly prepared for sale, you also need a comprehensive prepared marketing plan by your Realtor salesperson at ERA Justin Realty. You want to make sure that information about your listing immediately reaches as many potential buyers as possible.”

 

The ERA Justin Realtor salespersons are proactive in advising potential sellers with comprehensive information when preparing the sale of their house.  They provide you with a marketing plan with samples of the marketing materials that will be used to promote your home, as well as strong Internet exposure. As reported, approximately 80 percent of today's home buyers start their home searches on the Internet. 

 

Darby continued, “A listing on the Internet isn't enough, though. Buyers don't look at listings that don't have photos. You gain an edge with an array of multiple photos and virtual tour of your home that we place on the Internet as soon as your home is opened up to the market. It's important to have a good working relationship with your listing salesperson.  Hundreds of past sellers who had positive experiences buying their home through us decide to list with our salesperson who represented them as buyers. See our more than 700 reviews about our services, available in our published report. This is a good strategy. In most cases, it's not wise to work with an salesperson who is outside of the local market area. An unorganized marketing effort as well as selling through an outside area discount brokerage firm can result in a no-sale.

 

Your aim is to sell for the highest price possible. But keep in mind that overpriced listings won't sell or appraise for a mortgage for your buyer as it's all based on comparable closed sales. Your house is in daily competition with many similar houses on the market at any given time.

 

Our ERA Justin Realtor salespersons who are active in your area will be able to advise you about an effective list price for your home.  We offer our Comparative Market Analysis (CMA), a comprehensive study of your house in comparison with others that are on the market, that have sold, that have expired, as well as the year-end 2013 market update.  It’s offered at no cost or obligation simply by phoning our office.”

 

ERA Justin Realty proudly received the prestigious ERA Commitment to Excellence Award, chosen from approximately 30,000 ERA brokers and agents from across the nation.  For these reasons ERA Justin Realty should be your buying and selling Realtor of choice, as thousands of chosen them since 1950.

 

 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, www.ERAJustinRealty.com and www.BuyBergenCounty.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 FIRST HOME TIPS

ERA Justin Realtor sales person Grace Tirrito is known throughout South Bergen County and Lyndhurst as a top real estate professional for decades. Her listing and sales have provided successes for her buyers and sellers. Grace provides real estate services throughout Bergen, Passaic, Hudson and Essex Counties.

ERA JUSTIN REALTY’S FIRST HOME TIPS

ERA Justin Realty, a leading realty firm serving the many communities of South Bergen County has sold thousands of homes to first time homebuyers since their grand opening in 1950.  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 Realty’s sales associate, Grace Tirrito stated, “Vacation periods are nearing end and approaching our fall selling season. 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 excitement. To help keep you sleeping soundly, here are answers to three big questions that concern 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 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, Ranch 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 Internet is a tool of  choice for learning what a particular community has to offer. Approximately 90% of searches begin on the Internet. We offer two winning websites for your search choices, www.ERAJustin.com and www.ERAJustinRealty.com.

Question #3: How can I find financing that makes sense for me? Homes are affordable for qualified buyers. Interest rates are lower 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 Realty sales associates can give you the advice on financing options that match your qualifications is a big step in the right direction. We can assist in you receiving a mortgage pre-approval.

Once you’ve narrowed your search, talk to one of our ERA Justin Realty real estate professionals who serve the community you’d like to call home. ERA Justin Realty sales associates are trained to guide you through your purchase every step of the way. Our Websites 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 sure to be full other questions. Once we provide you with 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 through 2012 ‘Commitment to Excellence Award,’ one of the awarded ERA real estate firms from approximately 2,600 all across the nation.  Only outstanding business entities are honored and receive it.  For these reasons ERA Justin Realty should be your buying and selling Realtor of choice.”

Tirrito and the other ERA Justin Realty full service Realtor sales associates 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 Offers Tips for Buying in a Tight Summer 2013 Market

Denise Leonessa, ERA Justin Realtor salesperson offers buying tips for a successful purchase. Denise had joined the firm coming from another Bergen County realty agency and focuses on first time and repeat home buyers and sellers throughout Bergen, Passaic, Essex and Hudson Counties.

ERA Justin Realty Offers Tips for Buying in a Tight Summer 2013 Market

"It's always hard to predict how long it will take to find a home to buy. Given the current limited inventory environment, it may take you longer than it would in a balanced market, but waiting and waiting may not work in your favor. Although patience typically is a key component of your home search feelings, when a home you like a lot comes along quickly in your search, other buyers may have the same idea. You could end up in competition and you may not be the winning bidder," suggests Ron Darby, ERA Justin Realty Broker Co-owner.

Denise Leonessa, a Realtor salesperson who joined ERA transferring from another area firm offered, "Plan to look at every new listing that comes close to satisfying your wish list. Accept that you won't find everything on your wish list. Successful buyers make sacrifices. Just make sure to make intelligent compromises, being sure that a home you buy will suit your needs for years to come.

There are benefits to seeing a new listing that’s a possibility for you in person rather than looking at it only online or having your salesperson describe it to you. In a low-inventory market, it’s vitally important to become focused. Follow up quickly if you plan to make a purchase as the listing may be sold to another buyer who also had seen the house. If you’ve educated yourself about local market pricing, try to distinguish a listing that is fairly priced.

Some real estate salespersons encourage their buyers to make an offer even if they haven't a chance because they feel it gives buyers a chance to get their feet wet. The problem with this approach is that after going through the process and losing out four or five times, you may feel burned out and drop out of the house hunting search altogether. We at ERA Justin Realty try to educate our buyers in advance to reduce the possibility of losing the house they really want to buy."

Darby added, "We proudly have a strong team of Realtor salespersons who caravan our listings in person so they can more accurately advise of the home's features. Make sure your salesperson is in touch with the listing agent of a listing you covet so that you have a sense of how much competition there might be. Then based on your pricing expertise, your financial capabilities and how close the house matches what you want, you can make an educated decision about whether to make an offer and what that offer amount should be. Factor this information into the affordability equation as you proceed. Have your salesperson watch for listings that may have lingered on the market as those sellers may have a strong degree of motivation when your offer is written. This type of listing may be a buying opportunity in today’s market."

Leonessa concluded, "There is a difference in real estate companies. Our buyers and sellers have put their thoughts in writing. We have on file for your viewing, ‘;What people are saying’; our report of over 700 quotes and reviews. No other area real estate firm can offer that. We have been a Realtor of choice since 1950 throughout our marketing areas."

All of 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. Also view 1000's of homes at their winning search websites at www.ERAJustin.com and www.ERAJustinRealty.com.

Home Staging Before Selling

Fara Espandi, an ERA Justin Realty Realtor salesperson is a role model to many. Membership in all Multiple Listing Services for Bergen, Passaic, Hudson and Essex Counties and a national relocation expert, her accomplishments are exceptional. She shares her expertise in home staging for those marketing their houses.

    

                        ERA Justin Realty Points the Way to Home Staging Before Selling

"Today some buyers are looking for turnkey homes. That is, they want to move right in without having to do a lot of work. Those buyers with busy lifestyles may be willing to pay more for listings that are in prime condition. Staging can make the difference between a listing selling or not, the time it takes to sell, and the ultimate sale price.

Sellers who are financially strapped often have a hard time accepting that they’ll need to invest in preparing a house for sale even though they may sell for less than they paid. Fix-up costs can mount up and our ERA Justin Realty sales professionals can help you prioritize so that you don’t waste money. It’s important to keep your goal in mind, which is to sell your house," stated Realtor salesperson, Fara Espandi.

Espandi continued, "A typical example which may repeat itself across the country is a house that may have come on the market in 'as is' condition. It may have been lived in for decades without much upgrading. Located in a residential area, this example listing being vacant, dark and showed poorly. The sellers chose not to do any work to improve its appeal.

After months on the market with no significant interest, the sellers took the house off the market and made improvements. The wall-to-wall carpet was pulled up to reveal hardwood floors that were then refinished. Painters lightened the interior and a stager assisted and suggested bringing in furniture, artwork, house plants and accessories. The listing was put back on the market with a fresh look and sold."

Jennifer Darby Metzger, ERA Justin Realty Broker co-owner added, "Although listings staged by our focused ERA Justin Realtor salespersons can show well and often sell quickly, you don’t need to spend a lot to put your home into shape for marketing. Many homeowners have too many personal possessions in their home from a sale standpoint. Decluttering is something many sellers need to do."

"Consider having someone to help you sort, pack, donate and recycle items that you no longer want. You may be able to take a tax deduction for things you donate. Make sure to get a receipt. Our Realtor salesperson should be able to recommend someone who can help you clear your house of clutter if you are overwhelmed by the project.  We can assist and provide many services. You may help the process by putting away collections of  personal photos, etc. This can be difficult for many sellers because, for them, it’s part of the emotional appeal of their home. Your house won't look like your home after you’ve removed personal possessions and moved what’s left around to display the house to its best advantage," added Metzger.

Espandi concluded, "That’s the point of the preparation process. You don’t want prospective buyers focusing on your personal property; you want them to focus on the house. Keep in mind that how you live in your home and how it should look when it goes on the market are not the same. Some sellers might say that their house looks too stark without all their possessions. Even so, it helps you to detach yourself emotionally from the property. Also, less personal property usually gives homes a more spacious feel. When buyers are looking for the most for their money, bigger is usually better."

 There is a difference in real estate companies. ERA Justin Realty buyers and sellers have put their thoughts in writing for your viewing in their, ‘What people are saying’ report of over 700 quotes and reviews. The firm has been a Realtor of choice to thousands since 1950 when they first opened their office.

 The ERA Justin Realty full service Realtor salespersons with staging capabilities 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 search websites at www.ERAJustin.com and www.ERAJustinRealty.com.

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.

Tips for First Time Homebuyers offered by ERA Justin Realty's Team Kubs

Allyson and Wayne Kubs, known as Team Kubs throughout the ERA Justin Realty listing and sales areas of Bergen, Passaic, Essex and Hudson Counties provide valuable information for first-time homebuyers.

Tips for First Time Homebuyers offered by ERA Justin Realty's Team Kubs

ERA Justin Realtors Allyson Kubs and Wayne Kubs will advise, “Buying a home is a focused decision, doing it for the first time. By asking the right questions and considering a few simple but important steps, you can pave the way for some powerful beginner's luck. Becoming a first-time homeowner may have a few uncertainties, especially moving from a rental apartment, but remember that you're not alone, and our ERA Justin Realtors are there for you each step of the way.   Many make a successful buying move each day as monthly rents continue to increase. You can too.

It can be streamlined, dealing with one of the ERA Justin real estate professionals. ERA Justin Realty can navigate the home buying process, and let you concentrate on the rewards of this new experience. Their professionals, will tell you that there are three major points you should take into account: Finding the right financing, investigating the community you're considering, and evaluating your prospective home's qualities.

Before your home-search begins it's helpful to determine what price-range you are comfortable with and get pre-approved for a loan. Many hopeful home-seekers have concerns that they can't afford a down payment or sheer unfamiliarity with the financing process. But today those worries are often unfounded; there is an array of financing options available for aspiring homeowners of almost every income. For example, most lenders offer many different loan products, and one is likely to fit your unique financing needs.

Allyson offered, "Once you've gained confidence in an area, it's important to make sure you're familiar with the location you'd like to live in. Think about what you want in a community and how your chosen one meets these interests, including nearness to the city (or country), reputation of the school system, access to public transportation, and property values. This is another task that ERA Justin Realty, with tools on our comprehensive search web sites www.ERAJustin.com  and www.ERAJustinRealty.com are perfectly equipped to help you with. Our web sites feature our unique 1000’s of homes section, where a prospect can view almost every house for sale in Bergen, Passaic, Essex and Hudson counties, all areas in which we list and sell homes. This information is obtainable both on your computer or on our mobile websites on  Ipads and smart phones.

You also need to evaluate the attributes of your possible new home. What condition are major components like the furnace, windows and roof in? Is it a house needing only cosmetic improvements which will one day pay for themselves in resale value, or structural repairs? A qualified home inspector can help you answer such questions with confidence."

Wayne added, "Keep in mind that being new to the buying process, with the assistance of our firm does have its strong advantages. We will be with you through the entire process. Obtaining good guidance can help make sure you get it right the first time. There is a difference in real estate companies, and our available ERA Home Protection Plans are perfect examples for ease of mind during your first year of ownership.  We ask Buyers and Sellers to compare.  We believe that in order to exceed expectations of what our Realtor professionals are about, we don’t offer just real estate basics, we try to be as comprehensive as possible.  In that way, we hope you will hold us all in the highest regard."

ERA Justin Realty has proudly received the prestigious ERA world-wide Commitment to Excellence Award. Only outstanding business entities are honored. They are also the #1 ERA real estate office throughout Bergen, Passaic, Essex and Hudson Counties for 2012 production. For these reasons ERA Justin Realty should be your buying and selling Realtor of choice.

The ERA Justin Realty's Team Kubs 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 www.ERAJustin.com and www.ERAJustinRealty.com.

With more than 45 years as a real estate leader in Bergen, Passaic, Essex and Hudson Counties, Ron Darby, broker co-owner of ERA Justin Realty shares valued information for buyers and sellers. He, with his Realtor professionals are responsible for thousands of area real estate transactions. The firm is celebrating 63 years as a real estate market leader.

             ERA JUSTIN REALTY OFFERS NATIONWIDE RELOCATION SERVICES

Ron Darby, ERA Justin Broker Co-owner with forty-five years of area real estate experience, listings and sales totaling thousands of transactions for the firm, shares relocation services with South Bergenite readers.  He offered, “In today's real estate market, a large portion of buyers come from out of town. Whether moving across the country or just across the state, relocating to a new community can be an exciting experience for everyone in a family. With corporate transfers, company down-sizings and moves to meet family needs on the rise, relocation services have expanded their scope.”

“ERA-Justin Realty created a market as a relocation specialist, when ERA Real Estate was the only company to electronically transfer listings to relocating buyers, as part of the ERA national network" stated Darby.

This type of cutting edge technology helped to establish and maintain the company's reputation as a technology leader in the real estate industry. Today, ERA-Justin Realty continues to serve the needs of transferees as part of one of the nation's largest corporate relocation firms and by training its sales agents on how to best serve this special market for their clients. In conjunction is extensive home buying information on their 1000's of homes websites, www.ERAJustin.com and www.ERAJustinRealty.com.

To help buyers who are relocating determine the general area in which they would like to live, ERA's  national website, www.ERA.com  features multi-thousands of home listings and allows users to research detailed information about those communities. Buyers can learn about the styles of homes in an area and how much house their money can buy in different neighborhoods. "Finding a highly qualified, knowledgeable, local Realtor who knows the area can simplify the process of relocating, and having staff who lives in the area and knows the nuances of the community is very important," according to Darby.

"Our Realtor professionals begin by interviewing transferees about the community from which they are moving in order to find out what they liked best about that community and what qualities they value, so that we can recommend a community which encompasses those qualities," he added.

Working with both incoming buyers and local corporations in need of relocation services for their employees, corporations like the products that a quality full-service real estate company like ERA-Justin Realty has to offer. ERA Justin Realty offers a high level of customer service, which they, as an independently owned and operated company can provide. Many home sellers, recognizing the benefits that ERA Justin Realty has to offer in relocation services list their homes with the firm for greater showing exposure. They like the fact that their home with color photos and details are exposed worldwide through dozens Internet sites.

Darby continued, “Call or visit any of our Realtor professionals who will be pleased to provide answers to your relocation questions.  Each year ERA Justin Realty receives the prestigious worldwide Commitment to Excellence award, from the ERA network of approximately 30,000 brokers and agents.  Our sales professionals can be reached at either of our Rutherford offices at 118 Jackson Avenue and 57 Park Avenue.  By office phone (201) 939-7500, (201) 438-0588 or (201) 438-SOLD. We are just a phone call away, and always here for you.”

Min (Steve) Yi Realtor Professional Joins ERA Justin Realty

Min (Steve) Yi has recently joined the team at ERA Justin Realtors. The company on the grow has brought on-board seven new Realtor professionals recently All look forward in 2013 as a strong year for real estate in Bergen, Passaic, Essex and Hudson Counties.

                                    Min (Steve) Yi Realtor Professional Joins ERA Justin Realty

“I believe to achieve success a hardworking, knowledgeable and experienced Realtor is needed. I pride myself on my abilities to work hard for my buyers and sellers, ” stated Realtor professional Min (Steve) Yi of ERA Justin Realty.

Jennifer Darby Metzger, ERA Justin Realty Broker stated, “Steve's financial training for over 15 years and his background parallels our business philosophy, that our buyers and sellers will benefit from him and provide customer satisfaction. He is fluent in Korean. In his free time away from the office, as a husband and dad, he enjoys golf, camping with the family and attending swim practice and meets with his son."

Steve added, “I enjoy what I do providing for my family and to work hard in my career as a real estate professional and to assist buyers and sellers so they can make educated decisions regarding their homes in our communities.  ERA Justin Realty is well known to have an outstanding and high volume ‘business model’ as a state-of-the-art real estate industry leader. To become one of the best, you learn from the best. I specialize in first time buyer purchases, relocation for those moving within the state or across the nation and helping those in need in this ever-changing real estate market. Responsibility, I believe, is the key to success in a service industry. It entails reliability and trust. This motivates me to give 110%.

A Rutherford resident since 2004, Steve resides with his wife Judy, daughter Megan, a senior and a son Andrew a freshman at Rutherford High School who played Little League Baseball and Travel Soccer.

“ERA Justin Realty proudly received the prestigious ERA world-wide 2003 through 2011 ‘Commitment to Excellence Award’, selected from ERA brokers and agents numbering approximately 30,000, and Steve will be part of this continuing effort,” added Jennifer.

For more information, and to speak with Steve about real estate needs, consumers can reach him and the other ERA Justin Realtor professionals 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.

ERA JUSTIN REALTY PROVIDES INSIGHT ON SELLING YOUR VACANT HOUSE

June Incorvaia, a full-time Realtor professional with ERA Justin Realty is active in real estate listings and sales transactions throughout Bergen, Passaic, Essex and Hudson Counties. Since 1950 the firm, a market-leader has generated thousands of real estate transactions.

 

  ERA JUSTIN REALTY PROVIDES INSIGHT ON SELLING YOUR VACANT HOUSE

   

One of the first things you should do if you're thinking about selling is to walk through your house and examine it with a critical eye. Imagine yourself as a buyer and force yourself to make a mental note of all the imperfections you've ignored for years.  Don't be surprised if you're overwhelmed by what you see.

June Incorvaia, ERA Justin Realtor suggests, “Painting and floor refurbishing are good ideas. Renewing the interior surfaces of your home when you sell is one of the most cost-effective improvements you can make to increase your ability to sell in this ever-changing market. Buyers usually are more attracted to homes that are in move-in condition. However, selling a vacant home could result in a lower net return. The main reason for this is that first impressions play a big part in selling homes. When buyers walk into a home that looks bright, inviting and comfortable, they feel good. When most buyers walk into a vacant home, they feel that something is missing. Many people have a hard time imagining what a vacant home will look like when it's furnished. For these buyers, a vacant house poses a problem. They walk into an empty living room and start worrying about how they'd furnish it. It can be a stressful experience.”

 She continued, “Home buying is stressful enough without having to worry about how the floor plan works and which room is used for what. A strategically furnished house creates a more pleasurable viewing experience and reduces the stress of buying. Granted, some buyers, such as architects and designers, have the ability to conceptualize in three-dimension. Some experienced buyers have moved so many times that they've developed the knack of visualizing their furniture in an empty space. But, you are likely to sell your home more quickly if you can appeal to the entire pool of prospective buyers, not just those who have a particular expertise. You can certainly sell your home vacant. Virtually everything sells at a price. The question is how much more could you sell your home for if it was attractively furnished?” 

Dian Hymer, author of House Hunting, The Take-Along Workbook for Home Buyers and Starting Out, The Complete Home Buyer's Guide, wrote, “A listing in the Oakland Hills (Calif.) was put on the market last fall. It had a great view, but was vacant. It did not sell after months on the market during a time when all well-priced listings in the area were selling. The listing was temporarily withdrawn from the market and staged with rental furniture and accessories. It was put back on the market at the same price and sold right away.”

The cost of staging your home for sale may seem prohibitive, but it needn't be. Many sellers who stage their homes for sale use their own furniture after removing outdated pieces and rearranging the rest. Tattered draperies can be removed and often don't need to be replaced, unless they cover an unsightly or distracting outlook. For selling purposes, it's important to let in as much light as possible. It's a good idea to consult with a someone who is knowledgeable in staging homes for sale. A stager can arrange to bring in furniture if you decide that's what you need. To keep costs down, you may be able to create an inviting ambiance without furnishing your entire house or condo. The living and dining room, kitchen, family room and master bedroom are the most important places to concentrate your staging efforts. And always remember to de-clutter by removing the dozens of personal photos and other items.

“There is a difference in real estate companies,” offered ERA Justin Realty Broker, Jennifer Darby Metzger.  “Presenting consumer information, we believe, is in order to exceed sellers expectations of what ERA Justin Realty is about, as we don’t offer just the basics.    In that way, we know that our sellers will hold us in the highest regard.  Our sellers have put their thoughts in writing. We have on file for the asking, ‘What people are saying’ our report of over 700 reviews and testimonials from our sellers and buyers.  No other area real estate firm can offer that.  Are we proud?  Absolutely!”

 June and all of the ERA Justin Realty full service Realtor professionals can be reached at either of their two Rutherford offices at 118 Jackson Avenue and 57 Park Avenue, by office phone (201) 939-7500, (201) 438-0588 or (201) 438-SOLD. Also view 1000's of homes at their websites at www.ERAJustin.com and www.ERAJustinRealty.com.

Gifting The Family Home

ERA Justin Realty brings helpful topics to Bergenite readers. Ron Darby, broker co-owner offers tips and hints about gifting the family home. The firm serves buyers and sellers in Bergen, Passaic, Essex and Hudson Counties and are celebrating their 62 years in area real estate.

 

                           ERA Justin Realty Report:  Gifting The Family Home

“If you are getting ready to move out of your longtime home and into more sunshine, you can actually gift your home to a child or friend but that gift will come with a few strings attached. In many countries around the world, once the parents die, the children simply move into the home and take over the master bedroom. While that progression still occurs in the United States, estate taxes, home values, job transfers, and the desire for a separate space and different environment have changed the use of the traditional family home. The bottom line is that the home has evolved from basic shelter to the average person's most valuable possession. It needs to be carefully protected, guarded, and even nursed along--much like the responsibilities that took place within the home itself. And the financial value is usually accompanied by priceless memories and experiences, making the family home beyond doubt the ultimate asset.”  This is information brought forth by author Tom Kelly in his book "Real Estate for Boomers and Beyond,” reported ERA Justin Realty’s broker co-owner Ron Darby, his firm awarded for their commitment to excellence from approximately 30,000 ERA brokers and agents.

Darby stated, “First and foremost, your child or friend's basis in the house will be what you paid for the property, plus major improvements. Because this cost you paid years ago may be lower than today's home value, there's a chance tax will be owed on a subsequent sale. Carefully note that tax laws change and everyone should review their specific situation with their tax advisor for the most current laws and tax information.”

Kelly’s book states, “For example, if you purchased your home in 1970 for $60,000 and it is now worth $450,000, your child's basis would be $60,000 if you chose to transfer the home to the child as a gift. If the married child sells the home 10 years down the road for $760,000, their tax liability would be on $200,000 ($760,000 minus the $60,000 basis, minus the $500,000 exclusion for married couples). Taxpayers in the 15 percent tax bracket would thus owe the Internal Revenue Service approximately $30,000 in capital gains tax. The actual gain is the difference between the adjusted sales price (selling price less selling expenses) and the adjusted basis. The adjusted basis is the original cost plus capital improvements. Capital improvements are the cost of improvements having a useful life of more than one year. Examples include the new roof, dock, deck, remodeled bathroom, and finished basement. Generally, an expense is a capital improvement if it adds value to the property or extends its useful life. If these criteria are not met and the expenditure is considered necessary to maintain current usefulness, it is a maintenance cost.

The outright gift would also reduce your lifetime gift tax and estate tax exemptions. While the limits on both the lifetime gift tax and estate tax used to be the same (there was one overall exemption, and the individual used it up by making gifts during life and at death), the 2001 legislation set the gift tax and estate tax on different roads beginning in 2004. Both were combined into a ‘unified’ exemption because gifts made during life also counted against the total. The overall, or unified, exemption remains for the entire estate, but a gift exemption limits the amount that can be given during a lifetime. Once the unified exemption is used up, the tax rates that apply are quite high. The estate tax is being phased out over a 10-year period, but the gift tax will remain in place. The gift tax exemption is $1 million in 2006, but the estate tax leaps to $2 million. In future years, the gift tax exemption will remain at $1 million, while the estate tax exemption rises until the estate tax is fully repealed in 2010. At that time, the top gift tax rate again will equal the top income tax rate.

If you are going to gift your home to an individual, it's best to offset the amount by first using your annual gift tax exclusion of $11,000 per gift. You can gift $11,000 (this amount will rise and is tied to inflation) to any one person in any year. Hence, if you and your spouse each make a gift to both your child and her spouse, you can offset $44,000 of the home's value. Then, as long as the home's net figure is less than $1 million, you won't owe any current tax (unless you made substantial gifts earlier that reduced your remaining exemption).”

Darby concluded, “Tax regulations do change, so take the time to check with your tax attorney or your accountant before making any moves. Be certain that goals are shared and discussed. You'll find it saves time, money and anxiety.”

ERA Justin Realty proudly received the prestigious ERA 2003 through 2011 Commitment to Excellence Award, from approximately 30,000 ERA real estate brokers and agents.  For these reasons ERA Justin Realty should be your buying and selling Realtor of choice.

All of the ERA Justin Realty listing and 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. Also view 1000's of homes at their websites at www.ERAJustin.com, www.ERAJustinRealty.com and www.SellBergenCounty.com.

ERA Justin Realty Home Protection Plans Give Peace-of-Mind

Jennifer Darby Metzger, ERA Justin Realty Broker Co-owner shares valued information about home protection plans and how they benefit both buyers and sellers. The company on-the-grow attracts career professionals having six new agents recently join their team who will make the plan available to their buyers and sellers.

 

                     ERA Justin Realty Home Protection Plans Give Peace-of-Mind

Everyone has his or her own "house horror story." The Sheffield’s 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 Sheffield’s 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.

Jennifer Darby Metzger, ERA Justin Realty Broker Co-owner said, “The Sheffield’s 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.”

Jennifer continued, “A home protection plan safeguards a Buyer or Seller from unexpected expenses when covered mechanical items break down. Our ERA Buyer Protection Plan and Seller Protection Plan 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 accessible ductwork, subject to a small deductible per service call.

For Sellers, a home protection plan makes a house desirable to the market 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.

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 firm is about, we don’t offer just real estate basics, and 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.  Ask to see our over 700 written 'What People Are Saving'  reviews about our company. Additionally, we've recently had six new Realtors join our strong team.  All of our team can answer your home protection plan questions,"  she added.

The ERA Justin Realtor professionals can be reached at either of their two Rutherford offices at 118 Jackson Avenue and 57 Park Avenue.  By office phone (201) 939-7500, (201) 438-0588 or (201) 438-SOLD. Also view 1000's of homes at their website at www.ERAJustin.com, www.ERAJustinRealty.com and www.BuyBergenCounty.com.