ERA Justin Realtor® Glenn Elliot named NJ CRS of the Year

ERA Justin Realty broker co-owner Ron Darby is all smiles for the honors given to Realtor professional Glenn Elliot named CRS of the year at the recent Triple Play Realtor business conference in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Glenn is always at the center of commitment to excellence for the services he provides.

 

 ERA Justin Realtor® Glenn Elliot named NJ CRS of the Year

 

Rutherford – Glenn Elliot, a sales associate with ERA Justin Realty was recently named CRS of the Year by the New Jersey Chapter of Certified Residential Specialists (CRS). The CRS designation is a Realtor designation that is held by less than 4% of all Realtors nationwide. In order to receive this designation, a Realtor has to take vigorous training and meet high production standards.Beside Glenn, ERA Justin Realty has 2 others with this designation, Jennifer Darby Metzger and Fara Espandi.

Glenn, who has been selling real estate in the area for over 35 years, was also named Realtor of the Year by the RealSource Association of Realtors in 2009. Glenn was Secretary/Treasurer and Internet coordinator for NJCRS in 2011.

In presenting the CRS of the Year award to Glenn, Michelle Rosenkoff, 2011 President of NJCRS Chapter said “Thank you Glenn for all that you have done and continue to do for the Chapter. You have been awesome and I am truly grateful to have had you on my leadership team”. 2012 President, Richard Bradford said, "Glenn has incredible dedication” and Laura Shifrin, a Realtor from Massachusetts who is Regional Vice President for the National Council of Residential Specialists said “Glenn has done a great job all year long. New Jersey is very fortunate to have him and blessed as well."

Ron Darby, ERA Justin Broker offered, "Glenn has always been committed to service to both our industry and the communities we serve, be it Muscular Dystrophy, the Foundation for the Blind, the area Lions Club and other charities, he is the first to volunteer his services. One can find Glenn at 6:00 AM cooking hundreds of pancakes for local breakfasts and serves the area Kip Senior Center in many of their charitable events. With all of this said, he serves our industry in leadership capacities. We  are extremely proud of his achievements.

At ERA Justin Realty the words, ‘There is a difference in real estate companies’ is more than a phrase.  We live it every day with Glenn.  Because of our daily priorities, we proudly received the prestigious ERA world-wide 2003-2010 ‘Commitment to Excellence Award.' Only outstanding business entities are honored and receive it. For these reasons and others, ERA Justin Realty has been selected by thousands of buyers and sellers as their Realtor of choice, since 1950.” 

Glenn can be reached at either of the two Rutherford offices at 118 Jackson Avenue and 57 Park Avenue.  By office phone (201) 939-7500, (201) 438-0588 or (201) 438-SOLD. 

Twelve ERA Justin Realtors are Short Sale Foreclosure Certified Specialists

Responsible processing of Short Sale and Foreclosure transactions are necessary for success for buyers and sellers. ERA Justin Realty's Realtor professionals stand ready to assist, simply by phoning their hotline for a confidential appointment.

Twelve ERA Justin Realtors are Short Sale Foreclosure Certified Specialists 

As New Jersey lenders release thousands of bank owned depressed properties to the market to be sold, twelve Realtor professionals stand ready to assist. ERA Justin Realty serving Bergen, Passaic, Essex and Hudson counties is pleased that Glenn Elliot, Daniel Weiner, Cathy Vick, Monir Hanna, Carol Calarmari, Ed Bulger, Ilene Harpuder, Salvatore Macri, Fara Espandi, Rosemarie Zembryski, June Incorvaia and Jennifer Darby Metzger have taken required training and have earned the Short Sale and Foreclosure Resource (SFR) certification through the National Association of Realtors. The firm has designated a special hotline (201) 785-7653 for a confidential appointment for home owners facing short sale and nearing foreclosure status. These sellers will be assisted by one of the SFR specialists.

Up to one-third of all existing homes sold recently were either short sales or foreclosures, according to National Association of Realtors data. To train Realtors to meet the needs of home buyers and sellers who need these services, NAR has launched the Short Sales and Foreclosure Certification Program (SFR).

“Foreclosures and short sales can offer opportunities for home buyers, but it’s extremely important to have the help of a real estate professional like a Realtor® for these kinds of purchases,” said NAR President Charles McMillan, "Realtors add value to the real estate transaction with their extensive knowledge and market insights, and this certification will help them serve a growing need.”

According to media reports, it is highly recommended by lenders, the US Treasury department and others that if you are going to have to do a short sale on your property that you may want to use agents who have taken training or received a designation. Experience and patience is required in successfully negotiating short sales.

By adding the SFR specialty to their business, they have acquired the professional training necessary to assist clients and customers with the sale or purchase of distressed properties. The SFR program trains sales associates in guiding their clients through short sale and foreclosure opportunities and directing them to finance, tax and legal professionals. As an SFR professional, they further assist in qualifying sellers for short sales, developing a short sale package, negotiating with lenders, tapping into buyer demand, limiting risk, and protecting buyers.

“There is a difference in real estate companies,” stated broker co-owner Ron Darby. “Being part of the SFR certification process, we believe, is in order to exceed buyer and seller expectations of what ERA Justin Realty is about. In that way, we hope we are held in the highest regard. Our buyers and sellers have put their thoughts in writing about their past transactions. We have on file for the asking, ‘What people are saying’ our report of nearly 800 quotes and testimonials from them. No other area real estate firm can offer that.”

ERA Justin Realty has also received the prestigious 2003 through 2010 ERA 'Commitment to Excellence' Award from all across the ERA nation. For these reasons ERA Justin Realty should be your buying and selling Realtor of choice.

All of the ERA Justin Realty full service SFR certification recipients can be reached at either of their two Rutherford offices at 118 Jackson Avenue and 57 Park Avenue, by hotline phone (201) 785-7653 and (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 ACHIEVERS SHARE KNOWLEDGE ON TIMELY TOPICS

ERA Justin Realtor professionals have achieved  Leadership Circle status at their firm for their outstanding production and service to their buyers and sellers. These career professionals stand ready for the housing needs of their buyers and sellers.

    ERA JUSTIN REALTY ACHIEVERS SHARE KNOWLEDGE ON TIMELY TOPICS 

In addition to being the ERA Justin Realty Leadership Circle achievers through the third quarter of 2011, Monir Hanna, Carol Darby, Cathy Vick, Glenn Elliot, Daniel Weiner, Grace Tirrito, Carol Calamari, June Incorvaia, Jennifer Darby Metzger, Kristen Davis, Fara Espandi and Rosemarie Zembryski 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 simply 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 serve Bergen, Passaic, Hudson and Essex counties.

Although showing and selling real estate is a 365 day and night job for these ERA Justin Realtor professionals, their responsibilities go beyond what the public sees.  The firm has a vast resource library of important topics to share with the public.  These Realtors and their brokers, Ron Darby, Jennifer Darby Metzger and Carol Darby are always busy advising homeowners on topics that aid them in making sound real estate decisions regarding their homes. 

“There is a difference in real estate companies,” stated 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 nearly 800 quotes and testimonials from our sellers and buyers.  No other area real estate firm can offer that.”

“These ERA Justin Realtor professionals are our best-of-the-best through the third quarter, 2011. They achieved our ‘Leadership Circle’ status for their efforts above and beyond for their sellers and buyers,” concluded Jennifer Darby Metzger.

For more information on 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 1000s of homes websites at www.ERAJustin.com and http://www.erajustinrealty.com/.

JUSTIN FUNG ERA JUSTIN REALTY'S NEWEST REALTOR

JUSTIN FUNG ERA JUSTIN REALTY'S NEWEST REALTOR

Patience and attention to detail. Sound familiar? These are always important words at ERA Justin Realty, the firm that asks buyers and sellers to compare. They state, “There is a difference in real estate companies,” and they live those words in their daily activities as well as with those who join their firm.

During Justin Fung's interview process, he made it evident that his business philosophy includes patience and attention to detail as well as his personal goal, to offer the highest level of service throughout the entire buying and selling process.

“My first exposure to ERA Justin Realty was through press media and the Internet where numerous informative articles are regularly published. While meeting with Ron Darby, our broker, I learned of the level of excellence that the firm has attained over their 60 years in business, the many thousands of homes they’ve sold as well as the continuing referral business they have from satisfied buyers, sellers and now the children and grandchildren of these families. I wanted to be part of this respected and successful organization, knowing they would be my company after interviewing with five other area real estate firms."

A Northern New Jersey resident, having been raised in Clifton and Bloomfield, he resides in Lodi with his wife to be, Kristina. His fun background, when not serving his buyers and sellers include a fan of baseball, football, bowling and tennis. He and his fiancée are movie buffs and enjoy trying new restaurants. Justin is also fluent in Cantonese.

Ron Darby concluded, “Everyone at ERA Justin Realty has welcomed Justin to our team. He attended an accredited New Jersey licensing school, passed his state examination and will further accomplish and graduate from ERA Acceleration agent training, a four day intense course that fine-tunes ones abilities to serve our area buyers and sellers.”

The firm proudly received the prestigious ERA world-wide 2003 through 2010 ‘Commitment to Excellence Award’, from approximately 3,000 ERA firms. Only outstanding business entities are honored and receive it. For these reasons ERA Justin Realty should be your buying and selling Realtor of choice.

Justin 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 1000s of homes at their websitses at www.ERAJustin.com and www.ERAJustinRealty.com.

ERA JUSTIN REALTY OFFERS CONSUMER ANSWERS GUIDE

Ilene Harpuder, ERA Justin Realtor professional offers the answers to real estate questions for buyers and sellers. A full-time career professional, Ilene is continually referred because of her focus to detail as required in each real estate transaction. Her outreach covers Bergen, Passaic, Essex and Hudson counties.

 

ERA JUSTIN REALTY OFFERS CONSUMER ANSWERS GUIDE

“ERA Justin Realty is making available to the public a valuable resource to help consumers with their most frequently asked questions about buying and selling a home. ANSWERS®, ERA's real estate reference guide provides ‘plain English’ explanations to help consumers feel more comfortable about the home buying and selling process,” stated  million dollar sales producer, Ilene Harpuder a career Realtor professional with ERA Justin Realty.

The ANSWERS® guide is based on over 90 of the questions that ERA Brokers hear most frequently. According to Ilene,  "The ANSWERS® guide takes the most important things that we have learned over the years helping customers, and organizes it to help consumers feel more confident about home buying and selling.

ANSWERS® is available to consumers free of charge on our website at www.ERAJustin.com.

You will also find a user-friendly search feature for locating local houses as well as houses throughout New Jersey. We can also locate real estate opportunities for you all across the nation."

Both current and new homeowners will find sound advice, inside tips and honest answers to a multitude of questions about the real estate process in the ANSWERS® on-line guide. It contains sections on home selling, buying, financing and maintenance, and includes questions such as what makes a house sell, when is the best time to list a house for sale, is there any seasonality to the market, and what's the difference between fair market value and asking price. In addition, the guide includes a glossary of important real estate terms.

Ilene added, “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 2003-2010 ‘Commitment to Excellence Award.' Only outstanding business entities are honored and receive it. For these reasons and others, ERA Justin Realty has been selected by thousands of buyers and sellers as their Realtor of choice, since 1950.” 

Just a click away at www.ERAJustin.com the ANSWERS® guide will come into view and assist you with your real estate questions. From there, you will have the option to view our featured homes or 1000’s of homes and view backgrounds on all of our firm's Realtor professionals.

All of the ERA Justin Realty full service sales team 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 Brokers Honored at President’s Circle Annual Business Conference

ERA Justin Realty co-owners and Brokers, Carol Darby, Ron Darby and Jennifer Darby Metzger and their sales team of Realtor professionals focus on the details and is consistently the number one Realtor in listings taken, sold and closed in Rutherford. The are held in high regard throughout the region as a Top-100 ERA real estate firm nationwide. With the more than 700 written testimonials from buyers and sellers, the consensus is that there is a difference in real estate companies.

 

 ERA Justin Realty Brokers Honored at President’s Circle Annual Business Conference 

Jennifer Darby, Ron Darby and Carol Darby Broker Co-owners of ERA Justin Realty were recently recognized as one of the top brokers by global real estate company, ERA Franchise Systems, at the recently held annual ERA President’s Circle Business Forum at Charlotte, North Carolina.

Named one of the “Top-100” brokerage firms from nearly 3,000 ERA real estate firms worldwide, they represented ERA Justin Realty at the ERA President's Circle Business Forum, a meeting of the country's most successful real estate brokers.

At a special session, Realogy CEO Richard Smith, named one of the top thirty most influential men world wide, regularly attends congressional hearings, meets with senators and White House officials to address the national real estate economy, spoke on national matters.

Throughout the three-day event, brokers shared strategies for providing better customer service for their buyers and sellers in this modifying real estate market. They also participated in round-table discussions and question-and-answer sessions.

 

The President's Circle Business Forum is an exclusive event for the Top 200 brokers in the ERA network throughout the nation and as far as Hawaii.

"The ERA President's Circle conference offers an unparalleled opportunity for our brokers to re-energize and network with colleagues from all over the country," said Charlie Young, president and chief executive officer, ERA Franchise Systems. "The Darby's are 'Top-100' brokers, and their recognition is a reflection of the value that ERA Justin Realty brings to homebuyers and sellers throughout their marketing areas including Bergen, Passaic, Essex and Hudson Counties. They are consistently honored for their professionalism, integrity and service to their buyers and sellers.”

For more information 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 website at www.ERAJustin.com

Be Selective When Picking a Real Estate Agent

ERA Justin Realtor professionals take continuous training in real estate matters to serve the needs of their buyers and sellers throughout Bergen, Passaic, Essex and Hudson counties. New Jersey is readying for short sales and foreclosures being released by lending institutions which could impact real estate appraisals on upcoming sales.

 

    ERA Justin Realty Report: Be Selective When Picking a Real Estate Agent 

In this vast new world of real estate, you and your real estate agent must be educated to exacting market conditions, short sale and foreclosure impacts, required regulations for all real estate appraisers which determine the current value of your house and so much more.

According to Carol Calamari, a Realtor agent professional with ERA Justin Realty, a market leader since 1950, “For those who have bought and sold a house in days gone by, this information may be very beneficial to you.  Bring together the right real estate team headed by the Realtor agent professional you choose. In this new and detailed real estate market where buyers, sellers, lenders, inspectors and appraisers are strongly regulated, one should know the details so they can be successful in their purchase or sale.

Real estate training of Realtor agent professionals are necessary as the regulations governing real estate transactions go through continuous transition, and as in any business, there are trained real estate agents and those who may be simply a best friend of a buyer or seller who practices real estate on a limited basis. They may not know the laws that govern the transaction.  Limiting buyers or sellers abilities to be successful in a transaction can easily happen by selecting an agent who is not properly trained or certified.  It is not always how many years a firm or agent has been in business or the number of homes sold. Select your Realtor agent and firm which provides excellence in service.  Realtor agents who do a lot of business and are constantly trained have a wealth of experience to draw from that can be helpful when problems arise.”

"ERA Justin Realty serving Bergen, Passaic, Essex and Hudson counties has announced that Monir (Matt) Hanna, Jennifer Darby Metzger, Carol Calamari, Adrian Tridel, Glenn Elliot and Fara Espandi  have taken required training and have earned the Short Sale and Foreclosure Resource (SFR) certification through the National Association of Realtors. This knowledge is used for both distressed and non-distressed sellers. It impacts all sales.

Sellers must navigate carefully with compelling pricing. One of our SFR certified Realtor professionals will be here to assist," stated Broker, Ron Darby.

Jennifer Darby, ERA Justin Realty Broker advised, “Too many times in our industry listings are taken far above the market value. Proper pricing is determined by a comprehensive (CMA) comparative market analysis. Some listings taken by a brokerage with unrealistic pricing will sit on the sidelines as new properly priced listings come to the marketplace and are quickly sold. Be sure you are presented with a critical and complete CMA report detailing current homes for sale, those that have sold and closed and those that have expired because they did not sell.  All sellers are entitled to know the entire story so they can make an educated decision as to compelling pricing  when placed on the market. At ERA Justin Realty, our Realtor agents are trained to bring exacting information to our sellers.  Once done, our buyers can also be confident that the house they are considering and purchasing should appraise for mortgaging as long as the buyers are qualified for the loan,  Our Realtor agents owe a great degree of focus and responsibility to those sellers who list their houses with us.”

Carol continued, “It’s typical for a seller to be swept into the enthusiasm of a Realtor agent who speaks positively about your house, but in this current market that agent is under a strong degree of responsibility to advise the current pricing and what pricing is not realistic. We make the process easy by offering our references report, ‘What people are saying’ consisting of nearly 800 quotes and testimonials from satisfied buyers and sellers.”

Jennifer concluded, “We have been a Realtor of choice for multi-thousands of buyers and sellers since we first opened our doors in 1950.  Equally impressive is our relationship with Cartus, the worlds largest corporate relocation/referral real estate network representing Fortune-500 companies, where we do business for their clients in buying and selling in our marketing areas. Refer to our exposure of our listings on more than fifty websites.  These corporate relationships bring more selling and buying opportunities for all.”

Contact any of ERA Justin Realty’s Realtor agent professionals at their Rutherford offices at 118 Jackson Avenue and 57 Park Avenue.  By office phone (201) 939-7500, (201) 438-0588 and (201) 438-SOLD.  Also view 1000's of homes at their property search websites at www.ERAJustin.com and www.ERAJustinRealty.com.

ERA JUSTIN REALTY OFFERS FALL 2011 PRICING ADVICE

Ron Darby and Jennifer Darby Metzger, pictured, and Carol Darby, broker co-owners explain the benefits of a comparative market analysis for sellers planning to sell their house during the current fall season. With continuing modifying real estate values, current information is a necessity as a contract price may not compare to the strict required appraisal guidelines.

 

                           ERA  JUSTIN REALTY OFFERS FALL 2011 PRICING  ADVICE

Summer has drawn to a close and families have returned  from vacations, now buying pencils, pens and notebooks for the kids settling in for the school year, and ERA Justin Realty is also prepared for the fall 2011 real estate season. This is the time when families focus on real estate sales, but the first question asked is, “How do I price my house?”

Ask any experienced real estate sales professional the question, and the answer you will most likely hear over and over again is "realistically.” But who is the best judge of a home's true value - the homeowner or real estate sales professional.

"When a homeowner prepares sell their home, they may have a different view of what their home is worth. If you are thinking of selling your home in the near future and want to know for how much it could sell for and then appraise for, then you should contact a real estate sales professional at our firm and request a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) to determine its fair market value. There are many new specifics that dictate the value of real estate today, far beyond the determination of the homeowner or the Realtor, and our Realtor professionals can give specifics,” recommends Jennifer Darby, broker co-owner at ERA Justin Realty.

The fair market value of a house is the highest price an informed buyer will pay.  A homeowner's asking price is the advertised price of a house when it goes on the market and may be set slightly higher than the fair market value because it is assumed that some negotiation will be necessary to reach an agreement with a buyer. To get a written analysis of the fair market value, at no cost or obligation, a homeowner can call the ERA Justin Realty sales team and ask for a Comparative Market Analysis, one of many of our community real estate services.

"In conducting a CMA, our ERA Justin Realty sales professionals have access to a wide array of information, such as databases containing recent listing and selling prices of similar homes in the neighborhood, and how long these homes took to sell and those that did not sell due to overpricing.  The resulting analysis can help a homeowner understand what today's changing market has done to the price of the home, and will provide a realistic figure of the home's fair market value. Within the past years, real estate values have modified.  If a home is then put on the market, our sales professionals will use the CMA to help the homeowner establish a selling marketing program," added Jennifer.

The CMA information is a necessity in determining the true value and the right asking price. The homeowner should then decide on a price that is competitive and consistent with the price at which other houses in the area have sold.

Ron Darby and Carol Darby, ERA Justin broker co-owners added, “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. Our homeowners are proudly dealing with us as an ERA "Top-100" real estate firm all across the ERA nation with continuing focus on current market conditions.

ERA Justin Realty has proudly received the prestigious ERA world-wide 2003 through 2010 ‘Commitment to Excellence Award,' the most sought award that can be achieved in the ERA real estate network. Only outstanding business entities are honored and receive it. For these reasons ERA Justin Realty should be your buying and selling Realtor of choice.

For more information on CMA's, 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 http://www.erajustinrealty.com/.

ERA Justin Realty invited to NASDAQ Closing Bell Ceremonies

ERA Justin Realtor professional Cathy Vick recently represented the firm at the closing bell ceremony at the NASDAQ in connection with the Muscular Dystrophy ceremony. Pictured with Cathy is Henry Branch and Gene Amsel.
ERA Justin Realty invited to NASDAQ Closing Bell Ceremonies 

The NASDAQ always ready to assist and kickoff the Labor Day Muscular Dystrophy Telethon invited ERA Justin Realty and a group of dedicated business owners to attend and take part in the closing bell ceremonies recently.

Ron Darby ERA Justin Realty broker co-owner offered the 2011  honors to Cathy Vick, a career Realtor professional with the firm where she, Henry Branch and Gene Amsel were invited to the NASDAQ platform to take part with other business leaders in ringing the closing bell, which finalized stock market trading for the day.  The ceremony was broadcast live throughout the world on all major financial television networks and projected on the giant Times Square screens. 

Ron Darby with the assistance of broker co-owner Jennifer Darby Metzger, is the chairman for all ERA New Jersey real estate offices representing the Muscular Dystrophy Association  and the summer camp program. In coordination with all ERA offices statewide, Darby coordinated fundraising activities with the final check presented on the MDA Labor Day Telethon by ERA Justin Realtor, Adrian Tridel. 

Plans have already begun for 2012 with a commitment to send a large group of youngsters to MDA Summer Camp and to fund wheelchairs and equipment needed for the kids.

Because of their community efforts ERA Justin Realty proudly received the prestigious ERA 2003- 2010 Commitment to Excellence Award, from all across the ERA nation.  For these reasons ERA Justin Realty has been a Realtor of choice to thousands of families.  Additionally the firm has been awarded as a “Top-100 ERA Firm” for their outstanding sales production, each year since 2007.

For those interested in joining and being part of the rewarding 2012 MDA fundraising activities call Ron Darby and members of the ERA Justin Realty team at 118 Jackson Avenue. By phone call  (201) 939-7500, (201) 438-0588 or (201) 438-SOLD. Their real estate activities boast 1000’s of homes at their websites at www.erajustin.com/ and www.ERAJustinRealty.com. 

ERA JUSTIN REALTORS SEND YOUNGSTERS TO MDA SUMMER CAMP

Since 1955, MDA has built bridges and knocked down barriers for youngsters with neuromuscular diseases by providing an unforgettable week at MDA summer camp, largely in part this summer through the efforts of the ERA Justin Realty teammates who are pictured, Ron Darby, Jennifer Darby Metzger, Cathy Vick, June Incorvaia, Glenn Elliot, Daniel Weiner, Justine Slater, John Boguszewski, Carol Calamari, Salvatore Macri, Adrian Tridel and kids, Cate, Leah and Logan who gave stuffed animal gifts to the Muscular Dystrophy campers.  All were recently invited to attend the MDA VIP Summer Camp day to be with the kids. 

Ron Darby, Broker Co-owner said, “It has been the focus of our entire staff of agents to raise tax deductible donations to send as many children to MDA summer camp as possible and it all came together at the MDA Lock-up fundraising event. We reached out to all of the business firms and individuals we transact business with throughout the year to send in their donations large and small.  Donations were pooled in an effort to send children to the tri-state MDA summer camp for a week.  In the past we had focused on raising funds for MDA research, but we now focus to give these children an immediate positive experience.  Due to the untiring efforts of our staff and those who donated, the MDA youngsters are enjoying a week in the country in a structured environment to fit their abilities.

Special thanks also to the Rutherford and Lyndhurst Police Departments which arranged transportation for those willing to be locked up until they raised their MDA bail. Of course, it was all in fun. ERA Justin Realty raised over $7,000.00 for this single event. Our ERA Justin Realty team of over 35 Realtors never stopped until our summer goal for our MDA youngsters was met. Additionally, we chair the ERA Brokers of  NJ fundraising. In total, the check to be presented at the Labor Day MDA Telethon will total $13,000. and will be presented by Adrian Tridel. As an additional kick-off for the Telethon, Cathy Vick will represent ERA Justin Realty at the NASDAQ closing bell ceremonies."

Each year MDA supports nearly 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.  The firm is now continuing their MDA Summer Camp fundraising activities, preparing for next year.  If you have questions on this great program for the kids, call us at (201) 939-7500.

To reach the ERA Justin Realty team with questions about being part of the MDA team or with real estate questions, they can be reached at their Rutherford office at 118 Jackson Avenue, Rutherford, NJ. 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 http://www.erajustin.com/ and www.ERAJustinRealty.com  

Rather Than Sitting on the Fence …Why Not Own It?

ERA Justin Realtor professionals always join together with training to stay on the cutting-edge of customer and client needs. Their focus in a continuing changing real estate market is to have the knowledge to better educate and to better serve the communities in their real estate sales.

ERA Justin Realty Offers Market Insights:

Rather Than Sitting on the Fence …Why Not Own It?

ERA Justin Realty, a leading real estate brokerage serving Bergen, Passaic, Essex and Hudson counties, has never witnessed real estate market conditions quite like what we are experiencing today. Ron Darby Broker Co-owner offers the following insights for consumers considering buying a home.

Homes are More Affordable – Current housing prices are down 27% on average across the nation from peak values five years ago aaccording to the Freddie Mac House Price Index (June 2006 to March 2011)^,  and the national housing affordability index continues to hover at record levels.

Rates are Low – At 4.6%, 30-year fixed mortgage interest rates remain near historical lows, based on an average 30-year fixed mortgage rate as shown in the Primary Mortgage Market Survey data according to Freddie Mac as of July 7, 2011.

Timing is Everything – For qualified buyers, this is the time to buy. According to reports, conforming loan limits will be changing which will decrease the availability and affordability of mortgage credit for many home buyers in 42 states, based on new loan limits published by FHFA and HUD.

Homeownership is Still the American Dream – Nearly nine in ten Americans say homeownership is an important part of the American Dream, according to a New York Times/CBS News poll, conducted June 24-28, 2011.

Financing is Available – Today’s borrower needs to have stable employment and sufficient income to cover the monthly mortgage payment and living expenses; adequate savings to make at least a 3.5% down payment; and, in general, a credit score of at least 620. If you meet these basic requirements and plan to live in the home, you may be well on your way.  Note: FHA requires a minimum 3.5% down payment; conventional mortgages will require a down payment of 5% or more. FICO score minimums may be higher or lower depending on loan type, income history, property type and other factors.

“For qualified buyers, now may well be the time to make your move,” said Darby.  “If a home purchase is in your future plans, I would encourage you to talk to one of our Realtor professionals because now may be the time for you to act. There is ample inventory on the market for you to capture that “dream” home you have always wanted at a price and terms you can handle.

"But don’t wait too long, because mortgage rates and home prices won’t stay this low forever.  Find your perfect home along with a mortgage that meets your needs with the help of our outstanding affiliated sales professionals."

ERA Justin Realty has received the prestigious 2003 through 2010 ERA 'Commitment to Excellence' Award from all across the ERA nation.  For these reasons ERA Justin Realty should be your buying and selling Realtor of choice.

 All of the ERA Justin Realtors can be reached at either of their two Rutherford offices at 118 Jackson Avenue and 57 Park Avenue, by office phone (201) 939-7500, (201) 438-0588 or (201) 438-SOLD. Also view 1000's of homes at their websites at www.ERAJustin.com and http://www.erajustinrealty.com/.

ERA Justin Realtor Karen Kelly offers information for families moving with kids for the new school year. Karen's strong referral base brings her many sales and listings throughout Bergen County. A busy Realtor and a busy mom with four sons, she and her husband are very involved in community activities.

 

 See You In September: Moving With Kids for the New School Year

 It's been a sunny summer. Families who were at the beach, lake or traveling are back, off the fence and wanting to purchase so they can try to have the kids in their new house and registered for the new school year.

Moving  is a major change for all members of a family. Adult responsibilities weigh heavily when keeping track of all the tasks needed to make a move go smoothly. If you have children, this may be a difficult time to focus on their problems, too, but it’s also one of the most crucial times to keep their concerns in mind.

Sometimes what seems like a major disruption to grownups is viewed as an adventure to the kids. Still, changing homes can also bring different feelings of stability (in the case of younger children) and belonging (in the case of teens). These are special concerns for these age groups.

According to ERA Justin Realtor, Karen Kelly, “The most important thing a parent can do is maintain normal routines as much as possible, and when it isn't possible, to let the kids know that apprehension about a big life change is normal, too. Try to keep calm about the move yourself, and your children will be more likely to follow your lead. It is advisable to be open about what’s happening and how everyone feels about it. 

This means keeping your kids in the loop at each stage of the move. It helps everyone for them to get increasingly use to the idea of this change. Bring them along when you look at houses, make them familiar with the new area you're moving to, and investigate its attractions (including the athletic or extra-curricular offerings that appeal to your kids). Exploring some of this on the Internet is a good way to relate your relocation to an activity they already enjoy.

Encourage your children to express any worries, and do what you can to reassure them. If you went through similar experiences as a child, you can share how you dealt with it, if it was easy, so much the better, and if it was hard, your children will know they're not the only ones who have ever had to deal with change.

Try and arrange visits to the new school and meetings with the new teachers before the school year or semester starts. When you have more than one child, make bedroom assignments in the new house as soon as possible to avoid sibling strife (comfort, privacy and age seniority are all issues of kid politics that it is sometimes easy for grownups to forget).”

“There is a difference in real estate companies,” continued Karen.  “Presenting consumer information, we believe, is in order to exceed sellers’ expectations of what ERA Justin Realty is about, and 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 750 quotes and testimonials from our sellers and buyers.  No other area real estate firm can offer that.  Are we proud?  Absolutely!”

ERA Justin Realty proudly received the prestigious ERA world-wide 2003 through 2010 Commitment to Excellence Award, from all across the ERA 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.

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

The National Association of Realtors helps make short work of short sales.

ERA Justin Realty serving Bergen, Passaic, Essex and Hudson counties is pleased to announce that Monir (Matt) Hanna, Jennifer Darby Metzger, Carol Calamari, Adrian Tridel, Glenn Elliot and Fara Espandi have taken the required training and have earned the Short Sale and Foreclosure Resource (SFR) certification being processed through the National Association of Realtors.

 

              The National Association of Realtors helps make short work of short sales.

Possibly one-third of all existing homes sold recently were either short sales or foreclosures, according to National Association of Realtors data. To help Realtors meet the needs of home buyers and sellers who need these services, NAR has launched the Short Sales and Foreclosure Certification Program (SFR).

“Foreclosures and short sales can offer opportunities for home buyers, but it’s extremely important to have the help of a real estate professional like a Realtor® for these kinds of purchases,” said NAR President Charles McMillan, "Realtors add value to the real estate transaction with their extensive knowledge and market insights, and this certification will help them serve a growing need.”

According to media reports, it is highly recommended by lenders, the US Treasury department and others that if you are going to have to do a short sale on your property that you may want to use agents who have taken training or received a designation. Experience and patience  is required in successfully negotiating short sales.

ERA Justin Realty serving Bergen, Passaic, Essex and Hudson counties is pleased to announce that Monir (Matt) Hanna, Jennifer Darby Metzger, Carol Calamari, Adrian Tridel, Glenn Elliot and Fara Espandi  have taken the required training and have earned the Short Sale and Foreclosure Resource (SFR) certification being processed through the National Association of Realtors.

By adding the SFR specialty to their business, they have acquired the professional training necessary to assist clients and customers with the sale or purchase of distressed properties. The SFR program trains sales associates in guiding their clients through short sale and foreclosure opportunities and directing them to finance, tax and legal professionals. As an SFR professional, they further assist in qualifying sellers for short sales, developing a short sale package, negotiating with lenders, tapping into buyer demand, limiting risk, and protecting buyers.

“There is a difference in real estate companies,” stated broker co-owner Jennifer Darby Metzger.  “Being part of the SFR certification process, we believe, is in order to exceed buyer and seller expectations of what ERA Justin Realty is about.  In that way, we hope we are held in the highest regard.  Our buyers and sellers have put their thoughts in writing about their past transactions. We have on file for the asking, ‘What people are saying’ our report of over 700 quotes and testimonials from them.  No other area real estate firm can offer that.  Are we proud?  Absolutely!”

ERA Justin Realty has also received the prestigious 2003 through 2010 ERA 'Commitment to Excellence' Award from all across the ERA nation.  For these reasons ERA Justin Realty should be your buying and selling Realtor of choice.

 All of the ERA Justin Realty full service SFR certification recipients 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 http://www.erajustinrealty.com/.