Jennifer Darby Metzger, Charter Member of ERA Young Leader's Network

    

Jennifer Darby Metzger, one of Bergen Counties outstanding Realtor professionals is a market leader in real estate listings and sales and is a consistent award achiever. Additionally she was seen by thousands on Continental Airlines Global Trends in-flight video specials featuring ERA Real Estate on major domestic flights for nearly two years. She recently was selected to be a charter member of the ERA Young Leader's Network. As broker co-owner of ERA Justin Realty, her leadership is evident as she guides her teammates to success status.

Jennifer Darby Metzger, Charter Member of ERA Young Leader's Network

New Orleans, LA. and Rutherford, NJ. -- An outsider might think that freeways, fax machines, and Facebook have nothing in common, but real estate agents and brokers know these innovations have played a critical role in advancing the real estate industry since its formal beginnings in the 1800's. 

Today the charter members of the new ERA Young Leader's Network, including ERA Justin Realty's Jennifer Darby Metzger, broker and co-owner of ERA Justin Realty is an integral part of the future growth of ERA. Only twenty brokerage owners throughout the global network have been selected as charter members who ultimately will be guiding the future of these firms and lead ERA real estate globally.

Jennifer said, "We live in an age when it is more challenging to manage all of the information, demands and challenges that are coming at us. It takes real courage to stand firm in what you believe and then to understand what really matters and how to execute effectively. Your ability to understand the technologies is key to every step of creating significant results. Focus is the key element in that process. Our charter members will now reach globally to invite other young leaders to be part of this innovative group as we launch our network. We're excited to be Charter Group members for the launch of our ERA Young Leader's Network! These benefits will enable our buyers and sellers to enjoy even greater services from our firm. ERA real estate this year commemorates its 40th Anniversary, and will continue to influence the industry for decades to come."

"For 40 years, innovation has been an integral part of ERA Real Estate's DNA," said both Charlie Young, president and CEO of ERA Real Estate and Jennifer. "There are many lessons to be learned from history. As we look to the next 40 years, we will continue to monitor the business, technological and social landscape for new ideas we can leverage to drive value to our customers and propel our business forward."

ERA Real Estate, an innovator in its own right, was the first real estate franchise to use the fax machine to transmit listings across the country, the first to expand globally and the first to post listings online.
Jennifer concluded, "ERA real estate is an innovative leader in the residential real estate industry with 40 years experience in developing consumer-oriented products and services. The ERA network includes approximately 30,000 brokers and sales associates and approximately 2,400 offices throughout the United States and 34 countries and territories."

“ERA Justin Realty is highly driven by the knowledge and experience of their business platform. Everything we learn is designed with the universal goal of expanding that knowledge base through a series of innovative tools, programs and resources that will help deliver true value and make it easier for us to better serve today’s consumers. We are building a smarter business community; we all achieve more when we share knowledge and work together,”  she concluded.

All of the firm’s Realtor agents can be reached at their Rutherford office at 118 Jackson Avenue. By office phone (201) 939-7500.   Also view 1000’s of homes at their two winning websites at www.ERAJustin.com and www.ERAJustinRealty.com.

ERA JUSTIN REALTY HONORS LEADERS AT 2011 YEAR-END

Ron Darby, ERA Justin Realty broker co-owner with ERA
Leadership Circle and New Jersey Association of Realtors 2011 Circle of
Excellence achievers. L to R: Cathy Vick, Fara Espandi, Glenn Elliot and Carol
Calamari. These Realtor professionals serve buyer and seller needs throughout
Bergen, Passaic, Essex and Hudson counties.

 

ERA JUSTIN REALTY HONORS LEADERS AT 2011 YEAR-END

Bergen County, New Jersey: Focus for clients and customers are the force that motivates the staff of active sales professionals at ERA Justin Realty. In fact, the firm tracks continuing activity of 100 real estate firms who service the vast reaches of Bergen County and ERA Justin Realty has again proven itself to be an area real estate leader in 2011.

The firm's top three ERA Leadership Circle achievers for 2011 are Cathy Vick, who also garnered the NJAR 2011 Circle of Excellence Bronze Award, Fara Espandi and Carol Calamari. Other monthly Realtor achievers include, Glenn Elliot, with his achievement of the NJAR 2011 Circle of Excellence Bronze Award, Daniel Weiner, Grace Tirrito, Carol Calamari, June Incorvaia, Jennifer Darby Metzger, Kristen Davis and Rosemarie Zembryski who all know the secret to real estate success.

It is easy for these sales professionals who are part of the ERA Justin Realty team. Simply watch them day after day, month after month, year after year. They are focused on exceeding the needs of their Sellers and Buyers, the rest comes easy, even in this current real estate economy.

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

Recently announced, ERA Justin Realty continues as a "Top-100" ERA firm nationwide and serves Bergen, Passaic, Hudson and Essex counties. “There is a difference in real estate companies,” stated broker co-owner Carol Darby. “Attending on-going advanced training, seminars, round-table discussions with industry leaders and focus groups is what we continually do at our firm, much more than many other area real estate firms. We believe, in order to exceed sellers expectations of what a Realtor professional is about, we don’t learn just the basics. We want to learn, know and teach much more than is ever expected of us. In that way, we know that our sellers will hold us in the highest regard. To prove that, our sellers have put their thoughts in writing. We have on file for the asking, ‘What people are saying’ our report of 800 quotes and testimonials from our sellers and buyers. No other area real estate firm can offer that.”

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

ERA Justin Realty Report: More Bang for your Home Improvement Bucks

Fara Espandi, ERA Justin Realtor is a production leader at the firm with multi-millions in sales and listings sold. Her focus brings successes for her buyers and sellers throughout Bergen, Passaic, Essex and Hudson counties. She brings tips to readers for the 2012 real estate market.

 

ERA Justin Realty Report: More Bang for your Home Improvement Bucks

ERA Justin Realty, a real estate leader throughout South Bergen county deals with homes each day. Some are pristine and some call for improvements. 

Fara Espandi, a million dollar listing and sales producer with the firm shares her knowledge with these tips. “When you decide to undertake a major renovation or some minor home improvements, you may want to consider those improvements which could attract buyers and increase your profit if and when you sell your home. Should you put in a new kitchen or bathroom? Add a pool or new landscaping? Which improvements matter most and give the biggest return?

According to Fara, "The fact is the average American family stays in a home for  approximately seven years. Considering that your home is probably your most expensive asset, it makes sense to consult an ERA Justin Realtor to help identify those improvements that will appeal to more buyers and help it sell faster. Before taking on major home improvements, it is best to first take care of minor maintenance needs, such as fixing leaky faucets, grouting around tubs, cleaning gutters and so on. Buyers are more comfortable purchasing a well cared for home because if what they can see is maintained, it is more likely that what they cannot see has also probably been maintained.”

Fara continued, “Once basic maintenance needs are cared for, your real estate professional can be helpful in recommending home improvements that will increase the value of your home. For example, if you have extra funds to spend on one project in your home, and you are choosing between renovating your kitchen or adding a new in-ground pool, which do you think would increase the value of your home more?  Installing a new kitchen will generate a greater return when selling than a pool. Not all buyers want a pool, however, they all want an updated kitchen. 

Of all the rooms inside your home, pay special attention to the kitchen and bathrooms. They should look modern, bright and as fresh as possible. According to a national survey of real estate professionals, 80 percent recommend kitchen and bath upgrades to bring a greater return.

Minor upgrades can also enhance the value of your property, according to the survey. Cleaning and de-cluttering go a long way to improving the sale of your home, and are recommended by more than 90 percent of surveyed agents. Agents also recommend adding light and brightness to a home with new lighting fixtures. Landscape improvements, fresh interior paint in a neutral color and removing old carpeting (to expose wood floors or to replace with new carpet) are also highly recommended.  Other home improvements that will attract buyers include an additional bathroom or a finished basement, if your budget permits.”

“For a survey of what improvements you are considering as well as a (CMA) comparative market analysis price opinion as to your home’s current  value, one of our ERA Justin Realty sales professionals will be glad to give you a comprehensive overview and written report, at no obligation” concluded Fara.

The entire staff at ERA Justin Realty stand ready to be of service.  Reach them at either of their two Rutherford office locations at 118 Jackson Avenue or 57 Park Avenue, or by phone at (201) 939-7500, (201) 438-0588 or (201) 933-SELL

ERA Justin Realty Buyer Report: No Time like the First Time

Carol D. Calamari, ERA Justin Realtor, offers positive tips for making your purchase a rewarding experience. Her professionalism, inventiveness, detail driven and an Emmy winner from her past television background brings focus to all she does at ERA Justin Realty.

 

ERA Justin Realty Buyer Report:  No Time like the First Time 

 

Are you a first time homebuyer? Time is still on your side, because financing rates are the lowest in decades and motivated sellers are offering great pricing and want to make a deal.

Carol Calamari, ERA Justin Realtor says, “Here are tips and hints so you can locate, negotiate and close on your new purchase within spring, 2012.  All  of our ERA Justin Realtor professionals stand ready with a great choice of homes that should fit your wish-list.  We work with our sellers to properly price their houses as well as new listings continually arriving.”

The firm has set forth these questions and answers to help make your housing decisions easy if you are contemplating the purchase of your first home.  As you probably know, buying a home is one of the biggest financial commitments you can make. It is also a process filled with emotion, and a touch of anxiety. 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 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.  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, the Internet can be an excellent tool for learning what a particular community has to offer which is available through ERA Justin Realty's search feature at www.ERAJustin.com.

Question #3: How can I find financing that makes sense for me?

Homes have seldom been more affordable. Interest rates are lower than we’ve seen in decades. Innovative financing plans are available to fit a broad range of needs and ERA Justin Realty can suggest a substantial list of area mortgage lenders who can assist in your mortgage pre-approval process; a necessity when negotiating a purchase. 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 a professional who can give you the lowdown on financing options that match your qualifications is a big step in the right direction.

Carol concluded, “Once you've narrowed your search, talk to one of our ERA Justin Realtor professionals who serve the community you'd like to call home. Our Realtors are trained to guide you through your purchase every step of the way. The path to finding your first home is sure to be full of positive twists and turns. Once you have the answers to the big questions,  searching can be fulfilling, and even fun.  We're here each day to assist you during this exciting time.”

Jennifer Darby, Broker co-owner added, “Because of our daily efforts, we received the prestigious ERA 2003 through 2012 ‘Commitment to Excellence Award,’ selected from offices all across the ERA nation, as well as 'What People are Saying, ' our buyer and seller testimonial commercials running on many area cable channels. For these reasons we hope to be your buying and selling Realtor of choice.”

The staff of 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.” 

Lifelong Wood-Ridge resident makes ERA Justin his Realtor of Choice

Realtor professional Al Rottini has joined the ERA Justin Realty team. With a strong buyer and seller base, he will focus on residential real estate activity throughout Bergen, Passaic, Essex and Hudson counties.

 

Lifelong Wood-Ridge resident makes ERA Justin his Realtor of Choice

Albert "Al" Rottini, a lifelong resident of Wood-Ridge and married for 25 years to his wife Cindy have three children, Liz, A.J and Phil, determined it was time to follow his path to ERA Justin Realty to serve the buying and selling needs of those he knows throughout all communities of Bergen, Passaic, Essex and Hudson counties.

Broker Ron Darby stated, "Al joined us to make selling real estate his full time position as an ERA Justin Realty Realtor professional, knowing his responsibilities go beyond exceeding expectations of his sellers and buyers.”

“There is a difference in real estate companies,” added Michelle Korosy another Realtor at the firm.  “Attending ongoing advanced training, seminars, round-table discussions with industry leaders and focus groups is what we do at our firm, much more than many other area real estate firms.  We believe that in order to exceed sellers’ expectations of what a Realtor professional is about, we don’t have them learn just the basics.  We want them to learn, know and teach much more than is ever expected of them.  In that way, we know that our sellers and buyers will hold us all in the highest regard.

We are pleased to have Al join us. His vast business background includes thirty years of residential construction, an undergraduate in architecture and knowledge of older home maintenance.  His charitable background includes Melvin Jones Fellowship honors with Lions International, the highest recognition for a Lion which embodies humanitarian ideals of Lionism. He's being honored because he is a model of exemplarily service to his club and community he serves."

Al added, "My service work and charities are important to me. I bring that same philosophy to ERA Justin . I am here to serve my sellers and buyers, being it a first or repeat transaction. Buying and selling is one of life's big moments and I hope to be part of that experience with them. I am a charter member of the Knights of Columbus, St. Anthony Council at Assumption Church and I'm proud of my community work as a past Little League coach, soccer coach, biddy basketball and past Cub Master of Pack 183, Wood-Ridge."

ERA Justin Realty received the prestigious ERA 2003-2012 ‘Commitment to Excellence Award’  from all across the ERA nation and were again cited as an ERA Top-100 realty firm.  For these reasons ERA Justin Realty should be your buying and selling Realtor of choice Al Rottini, part of the firm's action team  awaits your call.

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 website at www.ERAJustin.com.

ERA Justin Realty 2012 Tips on Dressing Your House For a Good Showing

The ERA Justin Realty broker team, Carol Darby, Ron Darby and Jennifer Darby Metzger offer suggestions on preparing your house for a good showing. In a competitive real estate market, staging and proper pricing can make the difference for a successful sale.

 

 ERA Justin Realty 2012 Tips on Dressing Your House For a Good Showing

As many recognize, positive signs abound for the 2012 regional real estate markets. The Meadowlands communities are perfect examples of that strength in listings and sales.

Ron Darby, Jennifer Darby Metzger and Carol Darby, ERA Justin Realty brokers completing their January review, report strong listings coming to market and positive signs from the many new contracts that the firm has just negotiated.

As important a landmark as buying a home is in people’s lives, you'd be surprised at how much of it can turn on snap decisions. If you're selling a house you'll have to put careful thought into customers’ first impressions, because many sales will be made or lost before they reach the front door – or as soon as they walk through it.

Jennifer Darby offers a menu of possible ‘first impression’ areas that an owner may want to consider.  “First consider curb appeal – the feeling customers get from the upkeep of the house and grounds, and how comfortable this makes them imagining themselves as a resident. You want to do everything you can to make them see your house as their house, both outside and in.  A new paint job is an investment that should more than pay for itself, and neat landscaping – trimmed shrubs, new flowers – puts your prospective buyers in just the right frame of mind. Inside, kitchens and bathrooms should be in sparkling condition – these rooms are known to be what makes up many home-seekers’ minds. Removal of odors like pet smells and smoke will lessen distractions for customers you want focusing on your home’s possibilities, and clearing of clutter is crucial.

The less belongings you have crowding your rooms and closets, the bigger the home will appear, and the easier it will be for potential buyers to envision placing their own possessions there. Put some things in storage if you need to, or hold a garage sale to help cut down on some of the build-up you were going to clear out for moving anyway.  For buyers picturing themselves in your home, it’s also good to present the house in as general taste as possible – personal memorabilia, collectibles, and eccentric wall colors and furnishings should go out with the clutter. Repainting rooms in a neutral white also helps convey the sense of spaciousness.  Clean windows, fresh flowers, and other small details with big impact – they’re what you want to remember. From major improvements to subtle touches that tip the scales in your favor, the features of a house that we often take for granted can be the ones that determine your home selling success. According to the National Association of Realtors^®, curb appeal alone accounts for strong percentages of all home sales.”

Jennifer continued, “A little effort now saves you a lengthy process later. First impressions will expedite the sale, and securing our services will help make it all the surer. One of our ERA Justin Realtor professionals can guide you in all the above matters and more, from supplying a checklist of presentation tips, to recommending affordable painting contractors from his or her industry connections, to helping you stage the furniture. Whatever it takes, we can give you confidence that, for some buyer soon, the showing of your home will be love at first sight.  We also will provide a 2012 home market analysis  (CMA) with information in determining the true value of a house and the right asking price. In the end, however, the homeowner should decide on a price that he or she feels is competitive and consistent with the price at which other houses in the area have sold. Our CMA report for our Sellers is truly comprehensive in all aspects.  Complete with color photos and detailed information, it make pricing easier for those planning a sale.  Truly, there is a difference in real estate companies, and our details will make the difference. We ask Buyers and Sellers to compare.  We believe that in order to exceed expectations of what ERA Justin Realty is about, we don’t offer just real estate basics, we try to be as comprehensive as possible.  In that way, we know that our Buyers and Sellers will hold us all in the highest regard.”

ERA Justin Realty proudly received the prestigious ERA world-wide 2003-2012 ‘Commitment to Excellence Award’, selected from all ERA real estate firms worldwide. Only outstanding business entities are honored and receive it.

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

ERA Justin Report: Markets suggest now is the time to buy a home

2012 is to be a year of real estate decisions for hundreds of area buyers and sellers. It is an important time in a market that may have reached its bottom to select a Realtor professional who is trained to understand the market and can assist in proper determinations to be made. The ERA Justin Realty team of professionals stand ready to assist.

 

ERA Justin Report: Markets suggest now is the time to buy a home

What is the most important things a seller should look for when hiring a real estate agent to sell their house? How many houses has the agency sold and closed in their town? Is it the size of the company they are licensed with? Details of their  marketing program? Their years experience in the business?

There are many things that should be taken into consideration when hiring someone and giving them the responsibility for selling your home. According to ERA Justin Realty Broker Co-owner, Jennifer Darby Metzger, "With information from the well respected KCM group, we agree these things are needed to be known and in our opinion, one of the most important questions you can ask a potential listing agent is a simple one. Do you truly believe that now is a good time to buy a home?

Why should this matter when hiring someone to sell your home? Although buyers are back, they do have questions about purchasing right now. They want to know they are making an intelligent choice. We believe, especially in today’s market, you need to hire someone who realizes that this is one of the best times in American real estate history to buy. If an agent doesn't believe that, how will they be able to convey this to a potential buyer to buy your home?

When interviewing a real estate professional, ask them to explain why purchasing a home makes sense today. They should be able to explain it simply and effectively."

Jennifer continued, "These positive quotes recently were noted." The Wall Street Journal  stated: “With home sales starting to improve, and with prices now possibly forming a bottom, real estate could well be the asset class that represents the best low-risk buying opportunity out there today.” Donald Trump said, “I'm pretty sure this is a great time to go out and buy a house. And if you do, in 10 years you're going to look back and say, ‘You know, I‘m glad I listened to Donald Trump’. John Paulson, a multi billionaire hedge fund operator and the investment genius who made a killing betting against housing a few years ago, is now bullish on residential real estate market. He recently said," If you don't own a home, buy one. If you own one home, buy another one. If you own two homes, buy a third. And, lend your relatives the money to buy a home.” A recent Gallup Poll showed that 67% of American’s think that now is a ‘good time’ to buy a home. The Gallup Organization went on to say, “Overall, there is good reason for most Americans to think now is a good time to buy a house. Interest rates remain near historic lows. Home prices are down sharply, providing many incredible buys.”

According to Ron Darby Broker Co-owner, “We work with our agents each day to help them achieve the goals of their buyers and sellers. In a constant changing real estate industry we invite new agents to join us. We want them to have the education needed for success. Opportunities are just a  phone call away."

 

Jennifer added, “We stress stability, a necessity for success in this new world of real estate. We also provide buyer potential with stronger area advertising than any other real estate firm in South Bergen County.  Two full color page advertisements of our listings in The South Bergenite and other ads in the Community News brings an abundance of potential buyers to our agents for their buyers while giving our sellers strong marketing exposure.  We proudly are considered a real estate market leader by thousands of sellers and buyers and hope to be the Realtor of choice to thousands more in the upcoming years."

ERA Justin Realty is once again honored as a ‘Top-100’ ERA firm worldwide and is the recipient of the ‘ERA Commitment to Excellence’ award from 2003 through 2011.  .

Jennifer concluded, “To learn more, phone us or view our websites at www.ERAJustin.com and www.ERAJustinRealty.com." ERA Justin Realty operates two state-of-the-art Rutherford offices at 118 Jackson Avenue and 57 Park Avenue.  By office phone (201) 939-7500, (201) 438-0588 or (201) 438-SOLD."