ERA Justin's Kristen Davis offers Summer Relocation Tips for Kids

"ERA Justin Realty clients are my focus,” words of sales professional Kristen Davis. She is well recognized throughout Bergen County and has been part of their team for nearly ten years transferring from a local Century-21 firm. Kristen offers summer relocation tips for kids.

ERA Justin's Kristen Davis offers Summer Relocation Tips for Kids

                                           

Kristen Davis, an active and focused sales professional with ERA Justin Realty offers South Bergenite readers, important tips on Relocation for kids. “Every year millions of families move. One of the most important issues to anyone with kids is their reaction to the news that they're moving and their adjustment to the new home. Being informed is very important to children. One of the worst mistakes we can make as adults is to assume that kids don't care or won't understand the details. Keeping them 'in the loop,' consulting them about choices whenever possible, and including them in the family game plan will work wonders toward their adjustment.”  Other factors depend on a child's age, she continued:

 

“Preschool children

Kids under the age of six may worry about being left behind, or being separated from their parents. If you go on an orientation or house-hunting trip before hand without the children, it's important to reassure kids this age that you will be back; bring something unique back to them from the new town. It's also very important for them to express their feelings about the move. Give them a job to do - have them be responsible for boxing up their favorite toys, and 'labeling' their boxes with crayons and stickers.

Ages 6 to 12

Elementary age kids are usually most concerned with how the everyday routines of their lives are going to change. Showing them pictures, videos and magazines of their new home will help a lot, especially if you can find new places in advance for the things they like to do. If your child takes dance lessons, find and share information about the new dance studio she can go to. If he takes karate, or plays soccer or baseball bring that information home.  Even if her favorite thing to do is the park or the pizza parlor, find these places in your new neighborhood and get brochures, pictures or videos.

Teenagers

Teenagers are most concerned with fitting in. They may react angrily to the move, even insist they're not going. This is usually due to the total lack of control they have over everything important in their lives - friends, school and jobs - being disrupted. These children can be very worried about making new friends, and what will be different in the new school. They are curious about the clothing, hairstyles, bicycles, cars, etc. that kids in the new city will have. Pictures of all these things are very helpful, so if you take an orientation trip be sure to take many detailed photos/videos of the schools they will be attending.

Other tips for making the transition

1. Give young children an entertaining travel kit for the move.
2. Give older children a diary for recording the trip and move.
3. Give children of all ages a special address book and stationery set for keeping up with old friends.
4. Take videos of the new home if the kids won't get to see it before the move. Arrive well before the movers so kids can explore and become acquainted first. 
5. Give children a chore to do, such as working on their room (younger), supervising little siblings (middle), and painting or arranging furniture (older kids).
6. Take a break with the family as soon as possible to explore the museums, sights and recreation in your new city.
7. Arrange a visit to new schools and a meeting with the teacher before the actual first day of attendance.
8. Encourage the children to bring new friends home.

Regardless of when you move, prepare your children well for the transition. By planning ahead, you'll be able to offer them a few details of what to expect. Give the kids plenty of opportunity to express their feelings about the move, and their anxieties about the new school, new friends, teachers, and their sadness at leaving all that is familiar. Try to find ways to address your own emotional needs and your stress load so that you appear available to the kids at all times. Their concerns will only be heightened if they see you with concerns. Find a balance with yourself and your kids, and keep communication open. Planning and organizing can help keep stress to a minimum.  Keep an eye out for signs of stress and anxiety in your kids. Different children have different needs, certainly, and all kids process stress differently. If you do notice acting out or other behaviors that indicate adjustment problems, talk to the guidance counselor or the pediatrician about how to proceed.  Share your feelings and encourage the kids to see the move as a family adventure. You're all in it together. You will all experience emotional ups and downs, and it's important that everyone understands how normal these feelings are. Acknowledge the emotions of moving. Looking ahead to the new house, new school, and new friends should shortly be an exciting experience.”

Davis concluded, “This is an overview of how you may want to handle your move.  It is our pleasure to assist our home Buyers and Sellers throughout the entire process.  Reach any of our sales professionals at either of our two Rutherford offices at 118 Jackson Avenue or 57 Park Avenue.  By phone, (201) 939-7500, (201) 438-0588 or (201) 438-SOLD.  Additional information about our firm is available on our 1000's of homes searching websites at www.ERAJustin.com and www.ERAJustinRealty.com.

ERA JUSTIN REALTY’S BEST MARKETING TOOLS ARE GOOD AGENTS

 Ron Darby, ERA Justin Realty Broker co-owner provides valued information to area sellers regarding the sale of their house. A market leader in area real estate for 45 years, Darby explains the missteps taken by many sellers.

ERA JUSTIN REALTY’S BEST MARKETING TOOLS ARE GOOD AGENTS

Always chatter, chatter, chatter in the media about real estate upward swings, sideways swings and downward swings. Add to the mix the national media from California touting ''prices increasing" and communities thousands of miles away will believe it means their community.  They find a real estate agent who does not educate his seller about the local market, takes the overpriced listing and the seller becomes disillusioned with the industry and the agent when the house does not sell. In fact, this impacts those trained agents who work diligently to educate their potential sellers, repeated thousands of times nationally each day. By the end of each day, its natural for a homeowner to be confused and dismayed. The seller will possibly lose six months of valued time watching properly priced real estate sell while their house remains unsold and the listing then expires, only to once again begin the process.

"Your best marketing tool when selling your house is a good real estate firm and agent," suggests Ron Darby, ERA Justin Realty Co. broker of record and co-owner. "And, since no one knows your home better than you, the choice should be obvious. But there is so much more to selling a home than simply putting a For Sale sign in the front yard.  There are reasons why some agents seem to do so well. They work diligently, pay attention to detail, educate their sellers as to market pricing, exacting marketing conditions and are available at all times. They also use all the tools at their disposal, including extensive training, knowledge of the industry and neighborhoods and marketing expertise. A good licensed agent knows what needs to be done and when, and is aware of the potential pitfalls in this very important decision.

Gone are the days when an agent could be successful by simply putting a sign in the yard, making a few phone calls and having a nice smile. Changes in technology have made an impact in the way your property can be marketed. Today's real estate professional has so many more options available, and the smart agent knows how to use them. They combine the traditional tried and true marketing efforts with today's technology to better serve you and represent your needs to a greater group of potential buyers. They know how important it is to have a qualified purchaser who is pre-approved for mortgage financing before bringing a potential contract to their seller. Beyond that, an aggressive marketing plan needs to be created. A front yard sign and placement on several Multiple Listing Services are important, but eMarketing plays an increasingly larger role in finding the right buyer.”

ERA Justin Realty has been a trusted name in real estate since 1950, creating many thousands of real estate transactions in Bergen, Passaic, Essex  and Hudson counties.  Using effective websites, such as www.ERAJustin.com and www.ERAJustinRealty.com can allow an agent to put your listing on the Internet for the world to see. This is in addition to another menu of Internet websites that ERA Justin listings use in their marketing. This is a much more efficient way to market to a greater viewing audience whom you are not able to reach by sending out post cards or making phone calls. With photos of the inside and outside of your home and virtual tours, buyers can explore before calling for an appointment. The websites can also link buyers to on-line calculators, mortgage companies, general property search features, neighborhood and school searches, plus other valuable information that can allow them to see assets of your home. And this information is available anytime, anywhere. You no longer have to sit around hoping for a phone call or someone seeing your ad in the paper. You and your agent are open for business 24 hours daily, seven days a week.

Today's agent also has the capability of emailing photos of your property anywhere in the world, - great for potential out-of-town buyers. Messages sent via email or through a website can automatically trigger a cell phone, keeping your agent in constant contact. Instead of waiting for someone to drive down your street and see your sign, you now have the world at your fingertips. With so many houses on the market, it's wise to choose a sophisticated and high tech agent who can assertively promote your home. The odds are greater that your property will sell faster and at a higher price."

There is a difference in real estate companies, and ERA Justin Realty is always focused on the newest technologies. The firm asks Buyers and Sellers to compare. The firm offers over 700 written reviews of their services to sellers and buyers, available to be seen each day. Their philosophy includes exceeding expectations of what a real estate agent is about. They don’t offer just real estate basics, they are as comprehensive as possible.  In that way they know that their buyers and sellers will hold them in the highest regard.

ERA Justin Realty proudly received the prestigious ERA world-wide 2003- 2012 ‘Commitment to Excellence Award’, as a premier real estate firm from nearly 30,000 ERA brokers and agents. Their ERA Justin Realty full service real estate agents can be reached at either of their two Rutherford offices at 118 Jackson Avenue and 57 Park Avenue.  By office phone (201) 939-7500, (201) 438-0588 or (201) 438-SOLD.

ERA JUSTIN REALTY REVIEWS BEST DOLLAR-FOR-DOLLAR IMPROVEMENT RETURNS

(Al) Rottini an ERA Justin Realtor salesperson explores the pros and cons of major home renovations if you are considering a sale. His background includes being a Bergen County contractor in residential and commercial improvements. A full time salesperson with the firm, he will be pleased to provide a comparative market analysis (CMA) of your house and will assist with your real estate questions and concerns.

 

ERA JUSTIN REALTY REVIEWS BEST DOLLAR-FOR-DOLLAR IMPROVEMENT RETURNS

It would be nice if you could count on getting one dollar back when you sell your house for each dollar you invested in renovations. Most people hope for more than a dollar-for-dollar return. In reality, many improvements return less than the amount invested and you may be better off selling your house without making additional costly improvements.

As examples, in a past Cost Versus Value Report, published by the National Association of Realtors, as reported by Inman News, that nationally, the average percent recouped at that time, on a bathroom remodel was 90.1 percent. It was 88.1 percent for a deck addition, 81.2 percent for a family room addition, and a mere 79.4 percent for a major kitchen remodel. Market conditions change the percent recouped, so investigate thoroughly so you are comfortable with the investment you are considering making.

“Does this mean that remodeling is a waste of your time and money? Review carefully, especially if you go about a renovation in a haphazard fashion. It's important to do due diligence investigations before embarking on a remodel project, just as you would if you were considering buying a new home, and there are many variables to consider,” stated Albert Rottini both a  Realtor salesperson with ERA Justin Realty Co. as well as an area contractor in residential improvements.

First, consider that the figures quoted  are past national averages. The amount recouped on a remodel depends in large part on where you live. There's significant variability from one city to the next, according to the NAR report.  For instance, nationally, homeowners recouped only 90 percent on a bathroom remodel. But, the amount recouped for the same job was 109.7 percent in New York City, 100 percent in San Francisco, and only 61.3 percent in Denver, on average.  The return on a remodeling investment will also depend on the value of your home, particularly in relationship to the value of homes in your neighborhood. If you have a small home in a neighborhood of larger, more expensive homes, you could come out ahead by improving your home. However, it's important to keep costs in line so that you don't end up over-improving your home for the neighborhood. Buyers tend to discount a home that's priced above the value of other homes in the neighborhood. Before remodeling, it's also important to consider your competition. In some areas, certain remodeling projects are taken for granted. For instance, if you're in a neighborhood of older homes where most homeowners have remodeled their kitchen and bathrooms, you may be penalized price-wise by the market if your home is outdated. In areas where home prices are stable, you're likely to recoup more on your remodel investment than you would during times of meager appreciation. With this in mind, you're more likely to recoup your investment over the long term. There's a subjective factor that can't be overlooked when remodeling. This factor is often referred to as pride of ownership. And, don't discount the value of creature comfort. There's a certain sense of well being to be derived from a home that suits your lifestyle while aptly reflecting who you are. Despite these factors, from an investment standpoint, it makes sense to consider resale value before making an investment in a major renovation. This doesn't mean that you should remodel your home with someone else in mind. But, if you're aim is to recoup as much of your investment as possible, it's wise to consider home buyer preferences in your area. If your remodeling is not in tune with what buyers want, it could actually decrease the value of your home. Also keep in mind that while trends change, quality and good taste are timeless.  The NAR Cost Versus Value Report was based on professional judgment rather than on actual sales data. Therefore, the report is somewhat subjective. However, it does point out the importance of carefully considering before remodeling.”

Rottini concluded, “At ERA Justin Realty the words, ‘There is a difference in real estate companies’ is more than a phrase.  We live it every day.  Because of our daily priorities, we proudly received the prestigious ERA world-wide 2003 - 2012 ‘Commitment to Excellence Award’ a select few recipients from approximately 2,600 ERA offices nationally. For these reasons ERA Justin Realty has been selected by thousands of buyers and sellers as their Realtor of choice since 1950." 

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

ERA Justin Realty's Cathy Vick Continues Her Education

 

ERA Justin Realty's Cathy Vick Continues Her Education

Rutherford ~ Cathy Vick has been a Realtor salesperson with ERA Justin Realty for thirty years, creating purchases and sales in the multi-millions of dollars. She has many dozens of glowing reviews of her services from her sellers and buyers, coupled with the many charitable organizations accolades that she assists and fund raises for.

So successful, she now transacts purchases and sales for the children and grand children of her clients she serviced when she first joined ERA Justin Realty.

When some industry salespersons are relying only on past referral business, Cathy continues to serve new first time and repeat buyers and has recently completed a course that will qualify her to receive the coveted National Association of Realtors (CRS) Certified Residential Specialist designation. Her training included techniques in seller counseling, pricing, various client servicing activities and marketing techniques.

The RealSource Association of Realtors selected Cathy Vick in 2008 as Realtor of the Year from several thousand members. Her award resolution stated, “She has served her community in a variety of civic commitments and has unfailingly discharged her duties and responsibilities with distinction. She has demonstrated a concern and interest in her community by being actively involved for many years in ‘Starfish’ an organization providing transportation to and from doctor offices for the needy and is also actively involved in the Kipp Center, a senior citizen social organization. Cathy also finds time every year to raise money to help send children suffering from Muscular Dystrophy to summer camp. Her office views her as a Mother figure for her unselfish giving of her time and expertise to all those who ask for her help."

"Today's real estate market is more complex than ever before and the listing process has become the key in the movement of residential properties, said Cathy, "This training provided me with new input to enable me to serve both buyers and sellers of residences more effectively."

There is a difference in real estate companies. In fact, their buyers and sellers have put their thoughts in writing about Cathy. They have on file for the asking, ‘Real Estate Results In Writing,” their report of over 700 reviews and testimonials from their very satisfied buyers and sellers. No other area real estate firm offers that.”

Cathy will be the 4th ERA Justin Realty Associate to receive the CRS designation which is held by less that 4% of all REALTORS nationwide. Glenn Elliot, Faea Espandi and Jennifer Darby Metzger have also achieved this honor.

Cathy Vick can be reached at either of her 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 SHARES2013 FIRST IMPRESSION - TIPS FOR SPRING SELLING

Karen Kelly, a lifelong resident of Rutherford is focused on Buyer and Seller needs at her post at ERA Justin Realty Co. She offers real estate first impressions for Spring 2013.

ERA JUSTIN REALTY SHARES 2013 FIRST IMPRESSION - TIPS FOR SPRING SELLING

When it comes to your home, first impressions are everything. During Spring with the flowers and trees blooming, Buyers will drive by and make an instant decision on whether they want to step inside. The exterior of your home, in conjunction with the landscaping, has the ability to make or break the first appearance. Just as important as accessories are to completing an outfit, the perfect front door can instantly increase the curb appeal of your home.

Karen Kelly, an ERA Justin Realtor agent holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications, advertising and public relations and is focused on her Buyers and Sellers. She said, “To gain the viewpoint of the potential Buyer, walk across from the front of your home and give it a critical look. Is there something that is less than appealing? Does it look neat, clean and most of all, inviting? Take notes and decide where your improvement dollars might be best spent. Whether you replace your front door, or spruce up the one you now have, the improvement will be noticeable. Depending on your home's exterior finishing, you might consider painting the door a color that complements the color of the trim, rather than matching it. Consult a color wheel, and consider the colors located adjacent to the trim color, or directly opposite. Red, purple, or green front doors are not uncommon today. The door is a relatively small space, considering the expanse of the front of most homes, so you can choose an unconventional color for the door and not have it overwhelm the facade. And because of the small area of the door, it can be easily repainted if you change your mind. Some experts have reported that a yellow door adds immediate impact and clearly says, 'Welcome.' If you have a solid wood door, consider refinishing it. If the wood is particularly beautiful or interesting, you can simply oil or seal it to show off the grain. Talk to someone at the paint store about the best way to enhance the appearance of your wood door and protect it against the elements. You can also freshen up the entrance by polishing or replacing the hardware on the door. If the doorknob, lock, and kick plate are shabby, buy new ones. Measure what you have before you go shopping.”

Karen continued, “Fiberglass doors cost a little more than what you would expect to pay for a steel door. Fiberglass doors do not dent or chip, and are impervious to the weather. Steel and fiberglass top the list of popular door choices, but wood doors continue to do well. Wood surfaces must be refinished and varnished every few years, depending on how much they are exposed to the elements. Mahogany is a popular choice. Oak is an excellent wood for a front door but is very hard and does not accept paint well. Keep this in mind should you decide to paint it later on. Consider whether your home is stucco or brick, and note the interesting architectural details. Your front door should enhance the existing elements, not compete with them. Newer homes with cleaner exterior lines can take on an elaborate door, though the design should be in keeping with the home's size and style. New stock doors give you dozens of options, while a custom door is often the focal point of the property. Whether you paint, refinish, or replace the door, freshening up the entrance is sure to enhance your home's curb appeal.”

“We can aid you with a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) report, a comprehensive report in all aspects. We can make some first impression suggestions. It is complete with color photos and detailed information, and can 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.” suggested Jennifer Darby Metzger Broker co-owner.

Karen concluded, "ERA Justin Realty proudly received the prestigious ERA national 2003 through 2012 ‘Commitment to Excellence Award’, one of a group of select ERA real estate firms. As a trusted name in real estate since 1950, ERA Justin Realty might easily be your buying and selling Realtor of choice.

For more information on CMA's, consumers can reach Karen and 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 1000's of homes websites at www.ERAJustin.com and www.ERAJustinRealty.com.

Jennifer Darby Metzger and Ron Darby Broker co-owners of ERA Justin Realty offer ideas for sellers by ordering a pre-sale home inspection of their home. They, with their business associate Carol Darby and staff of Realtor agents stand ready to offer details. The firm has been a trusted name in real estate since 1950.

ERA JUSTIN REVIEWS INSPECTING THE HOME INSPECTOR, A CRITICAL LOOK

“Home sellers increasingly are ordering pre-sale home inspections to make reports available for buyers to review before they make an offer. By doing so, they hope to avoid renegotiations that can occur if the buyer's inspections reveal defects that weren't disclosed to them before they made an offer,” according to an Inman News report.

Ron Darby, ERA Justin Realty Broker co-owner offered, "Ask one of our real estate agents for a candid opinion of an inspector's reliability, an important aspect if you are doing a pre-sale inspection, as the inspector's credibility is important to your sale. If some of your agent's past clients used the inspector, call the inspector and ask for references. Check with friends who bought recently to see if they know the inspector, and if they would use him again."

The Inman News report continued, "Home inspections often recommend further inspections by other professionals, such as roofers, plumbers, electricians, drainage contractors or engineers. Few sellers complete all recommended further inspections before they market their homes. It's hard to tell from a written report whether a further inspector recommendation is in response to something questionable that the inspector discovered, or whether it's simply an attempt by the inspector to limit his liability.

Before you rely on a report, have a conversation with the inspector to find out if there are issues of serious concern that need further investigation. Inspectors will often be candid in a verbal conversation, but will attempt to minimize their liability with disclaimers in the written report. Also be aware that many home inspection reports include a statement that the report can't be relied on by other parties. This could mean the buyers if the report was ordered by the sellers. If you're concerned about this issue, talk directly to the inspector or consult with a knowledgeable real estate attorney to determine the extent of the inspector's liability to you for overlooked defects.

In competitive markets, where overbidding is the norm, many buyers choose to rely on the sellers reports and forego an inspection contingency. This may not be risky if the sellers have provided current and complete reports from reputable inspectors and the buyers have a wealth of home owning experience. Experienced home buyers have an advantage because they can often assess how much it will cost to repair defects even if the sellers don't provide estimates. Buyers who don't fall into this category should include an inspection contingency in their offer. There's a strategy that could improve your chances even if you end up competing with buyers who choose to waive their right to an inspection contingency. You can include an inspection contingency in your purchase offer, but also include a provision that you will pay up to a certain amount to correct defects that are uncovered that were previously unknown. This way the seller knows that you are a sincere buyer who won't back out due to minor defects that might be uncovered during your inspections.”

“All can be confirmed through Buyer's and Seller's attorneys at the inception of a transaction. There is a difference in real estate companies. 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,” added company Broker co-owner Jennifer Darby Metzger.

ERA Justin Realty received the prestigious ERA world-wide 2003 through 2012 ‘Commitment to Excellence Award,' one of very few from ERA real estate brokers and agents nearing 30,000. Only outstanding business entities are honored and receive it. ERA Justin Realty has been your trusted name in real estate since 1950.

For more information on real estate topics, 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 1000's of homes websites at www.ERAJustin.com and www.ERAJustinRealty.com.

For our Communities, ERA Justin Realty Partners with Local Farms

For our Communities, ERA Justin Realty Partners with Local Farms

Today everyone has very busy lives. Running here and there, driven by the demands of technology and wanting instant communication, gratification, results and fast foods. We at ERA Justin Realty thought it was time to take a deep breath, reflect on quieter times and bring forth our efforts to give back to our communities.

"Our agents wanted to do their share and create a way that our families could eat healthy while helping our friends and neighbors in our communities do the same, said office coordinator, Michelle Korosy.

Jennifer Darby Metzger, broker co-owner added, "We are very proud to create our CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) partnership. It's good for us and our communities!

ERA Justin Realty of Rutherford, New Jersey has partnered with a local farm to bring fresh produce to our local communities. You’ve heard of the benefits of buying local. Now we're offering you a great way to enjoy fruits and vegetables grown right here in New Jersey and have the opportunity to make an investment in these locally grown foods, which in turn helps to keep New Jersey green!"

Michelle added, "We at ERA Justin believe in doing our part to help our communities stay healthy. We also are dedicated in helping support our local economy. Money spent with local farmers & growers all stays close to home, working to build our local economy instead of being handed over to a corporation in another city, state, or country.  Since the food moves through fewer hands, more of the money you spend tends to get to the people growing it. We are excited and we hope you are too! Here's to a healthy 2013 season!"

For information on how to join this exciting new path and to learn more details and find answers to your questions, simply go to ERAFresh.org. You may also reach Jennifer Darby Metzger or Michelle Korosy the ERA Fresh CSA's coordinators at ERA Justin Realty at (201) 939-7500.