Real Estate Broker Ron Darby Celebrates 30 Years with ERA Justin Realty Co.

ERA Justin Realtor professionals put real estate on-hold for a 30th anniversary celebration luncheon to honor Broker Ron Darby for his decades of leadership at ERA Justin Realty Co.  Clockwise from front: Ron Darby, Carol Darby, June Incorvaia, Gene Amsel, Ilene Harpuder, Kristen Davis, Grace Tirrito, Ligia Gerges, Karen Kelly, Mary Iannaccone, Justin Fung, Fara Espandi, Carol Calamari, Justine Slater, Michelle Korosy, Al Rottini, Cathy Vick, Glenn Elliot, Peggy McLaughlin, John Boguszewski, Jennifer Darby Metzger, Rosemarie Zembryski, Adrian Tridel, Ed Bulger and Sal Macri

Real Estate Broker Ron Darby Celebrates 30 Years with ERA Justin Realty Co.

Reflecting, Ron Darby, Broker, never thought he would be completing his 45th year in the real estate industry, 30 years at the helm of  ERA Justin Realty and 28 years with ERA, a leading global real estate brand.

Those at the firm gathered for a celebration luncheon, putting their real estate activities on-hold to honor their Broker for his leadership, innovative marketing for their sellers and buyers and always being there for them.

"Time flies when you do what you always enjoy, with focus on our buyers, sellers and our Realtors, working with each one to assist for their success.  I hardly count the years. Reflecting, I do remember the days I studied for my salesperson and then my broker licensing. Seems like yesterday, though it's now thousands of transactions later. We've certainly grown and it's because of the dedication of our wonderful Realtor teammates who focus with me and my business associates, Carol Darby and Jennifer Darby Metzger," said Ron.

“ERA Justin Realty is highly driven by the knowledge and experience of our business platform. Everything we do 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,” added Carol Darby.

Jennifer concluded, "All of our firm’s Realtor agents can be reached at either of our two Rutherford offices at 118 Jackson Avenue and 57 Park Avenue.  By office phone (201) 939-7500.   Also view 1000’s of homes at our website at www.ERAJustin.com or www.ERAJustinRealty.com."

                                 

                             

ERA Justin Realty Receives Little League Championship Softball Trophy

Delaney Manning, Jennifer Netelkos, George Netelkos, Ron Darby, Bernie Hurlburt, Elizabeth Hurlburt and Dennis Stafford joined together for the presentation of the girls Little League 2011 Championship Trophy to ERA Justin Realty. After the presentation, it was off to Rutherford's Memorial Field for their first game of 2012.

ERA Justin Realty Receives Little League Championship Softball Trophy

With excitement, ERA Justin Realty proudly received the 2011 Little League Championship trophy for the team's winning effort throughout the season. Those presenting included team members, Delaney Manning, Jennifer Netelkos, Elizabeth Hurlburt  and coaches, George Netelkos, Bernie Hurlburt, and Dennis Stafford. Ron Darby, Broker Co-owner accepted the championship trophy and immediately placed in the office window where it is prominently displayed.

Just prior, the new 2012 teams began the season with a parade through Rutherford leading to Memorial Field for their first games of this season.

Flashback to spring 2011, ERA Justin Realty was approached to be a sponsor of a Rutherford Little League girls softball team. Without hesitation the answer was a resounding yes, never realizing that the team would be honored as the champs for the season.

Ron said, “Girls softball was long overdue as there had never been girls Little League in Rutherford. This was to be the start of something wonderful for our town. And at the end of the first season it was proven to be a big success with many wonderful girls Little League teams sponsored by many of our outstanding area business leaders. ERA Justin Realty’s girls Little League was on its way, our team was formed, the excitement began and in a blink it is now the 2012 second season.”

The ERA Justin Realty team became the first Rutherford Little League Softball Major Division Champions ever. ERA Justin Realty has offered strong thanks to the Rutherford Little League, Rutherford Recreation Department, and the Softball Committee for their efforts in making 2011 and 2012 successful seasons for all of the girl Little League players.

The coaches added, “We are very proud of how well the girls play and their show of true team effort throughout the seasons, while having fun."

Ron concluded, “At ERA Justin Realty the words, ‘There is a difference in real estate companies’ is more than a phrase. We believe strongly in community and our sponsorship of our team is exceptionally rewarding. Because of our support of community activities and our charitable contributions we proudly received the prestigious ERA worldwide 2003-2011 Commitment to Excellence Award.”

Readers who would like to add their congratulations can direct them to ERA Justin Realty at 118 Jackson Avenue and 57 Park Avenue.  By office phone (201) 939-7500, (201) 438-0588 or (201) 438-SOLD.  More about the team can be viewed at http://www.erajustin.com/ in community news.

ERA Justin's Cathy Vick Achieves "Beyond Excellence" Award and Offers Timely Tips

Cathy Vick, ERA Justin Realtor professional and a strong market leader throughout Bergen, Passaic, Hudson and Essex Counties was selected to receive the ERA Beyond Excellence Award. She is also a certified relocation specialist and short-sale/foreclosure specialist. She sets the tone for many other Realtors within the towns she serves.

 ERA JUSTIN’S CATHY VICK ACHIEVES

“BEYOND EXCELLENCE” AWARD AND OFFERS TIMELY TIPS

 “ERA Justin Realtor Cathy Vick has been recognized as a ‘Beyond Excellence’ achiever for 2011. She exceeded thresholds set by ERA Real Estate Franchise systems, a global leader, for individual production in listings taken and sales to earn the distinction. She was also cited for outstanding service to ERA Justin Realty and the communities which she serves. Cathy has set a benchmark for all members of our listing and sales team,” stated, Broker, Ron Darby.

Cathy added, "With summer rapidly approaching and with Open House weekends in place, Cathy also offers timely tips in getting those closets ready for the sale of your house. “For many, we hardly want to think about closets, but the day is nearing, hour by hour. When your Realtor arranges for an open house or appointment, you will no doubt make sure everything is tidy and clean. The dishes are put away, beds made, litter box cleaned. But, what about your closets?   Storage is a number one priority with home buyers. They want to make sure they have a place to put their stuff. Will your closets prove to be a selling point?



You will find yourself agonizing over many decisions, but be brutal. The rule is, if you haven't worn it for 2 years, toss it. If it is a gift that Aunt Emma gave you 5 years ago and something you will never use, get rid of it. (Just don't tell Aunt Emma.) Pretend you are moving to smaller quarters, whether you are or not, and you can only take the things you truly love. If you are having trouble, enlist the help of a friend who can be relentless. Think about your lifestyle as you are making these choices. Maybe your former employment was in an office and you needed to wear suits every day. Your current employment is a more casual job and your attire now reflects this attitude. Keep your favorite two suits and donate the others to your favorite charity. Retain clothing that works for your current way of living, not how you used to live. It is not going to go away by itself, so take time to tackle it head on and get organized. Allow lots of time for this task. You probably won't be able to get through it in a day or even a weekend. Remember, it took you a long time to accumulate these items. You might want to tackle this chore in chunks of time, allowing a few weekends to get totally through the process. Ready? Here's how it goes. You get a phone call. You have a house showing is in a few minutes, so you toss everything into the closets, toys, coats and whatever. When they leave, you swear you will get to it tomorrow. Sometimes, tomorrow never comes. After a while, it becomes hard to close the door and you do not remember what is in there. It is now time to de-clutter and de-stress.

Place everything in piles: (1) Keepers; (2) Maybes or Yard Sale; and (3) Donations. It might also help to obtain some of the organized storage available for closets. These are especially useful for those small items such as ties and belts. Everything will be neater and you will be able to find things quicker. We can help arrange your garage sale for the Muscular Dystrophy Association Summer Camp for kids. We fundraise each year for the kids.


Most of us are drowning in paper. When you start sorting through paperwork, promise yourself to handle each piece only once. Papers that belong to other family members should be sorted and then handed over to that individual. Control newspaper and magazine pile-up by vowing to discard each issue by the time the next one arrives. On Sunday, Saturday's paper goes out whether or not it has been read. The same thing goes for magazines. Some offices or charities are happy to have them, especially hospital waiting rooms. As for regular bills, they can be organized with a portable file box.” Ron concluded, “ERA Justin Realty received the prestigious world-wide 2003 through 2011‘ERA Commitment to Excellence Award’, globally.”Toys and seasonal items are a little more difficult. If the kids have outgrown those old skates, pass them down to a friend. Holiday decorations can tug at your heartstrings, but if they are broken or no longer hold their luster, out they should go.  If you cannot bear to part with them, pack them in a storage box. By the time the de-cluttering is finished you should have room left over. Books, toys and clothing that are going to a charity should be boxed up or placed in plastic bags. If you are considering a yard sale, try to tag as you go along. 

Cathy and all of the 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 1000s of homes at their websites at http://www.erajustin.com/ and www.ERAJustinRealty.com

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.”