ERA Justin Realty’s Jennifer Darby Metzger cited by RealSource Association as 2013 Realtor of the year

Jennifer Darby Metzger received the 2013 RealSource Association of Realtors, Realtor of the Year Award presented at the Triple Play Business Convention. Pictured, Cathy Vick, Rosemary Zembryski, Jennifer Darby Metzger, Fara Espandi, Carol Darby and Ron Darby

ERA Justin Realty’s Jennifer Darby Metzger cited by

RealSource Association as 2013 Realtor of the year

Atlantic City, New Jersey: The highlight of the recent Triple Play Business Convention for Jennifer Darby Metzger was being awarded the RealSource Association of Realtors 2013 Realtor of the year, singly selected from the association’s 3,500 membership. On hand for the esteemed award was Cathy Vick, Rosemary Zembryski, Fara Espandi, Carol Darby and Ron Darby.

The RealSource Association of Realtors committee selected Jennifer Darby Metzger for her achievements and business accomplishments. For the last 21 years Jennifer has focused on Realtor activities and responsibilities.

In addition to this award, she had earlier in her career been selected and featured as a national Thirty Under Thirty recipient in a major article in Realtor magazine.

Jennifer 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 the company websites at www.ERAJustin.com and www.ERAJustinRealty.com.

ERA Justin Realty Offers Online Visual Property Tours

Technology demands by the real estate markets have brought exceptional opportunities for ERA Justin Realty sellers and buyers, explains Realtor salesperson Cathy Vick. A past honoree as RealSource Realtor of the year with a long term relationship with her firm, she shares visual property tour benefits.

ERA Justin Realty Offers Online Visual Property Tours

Cathy Vick known throughout Bergen, Passaic, Hudson and Essex Counties for her expertise in real estate sales reviewed additional marketing of their listings offered by ERA Justin Realty including technology which enables consumers to view their property listings through two online visual tour services, making home buying and selling easier.

Considered to be a technology leader in the real estate industry and a "Top 100" ERA real estate firm nationwide, ERA Justin Realty features visual tours in today's fast-paced and technologically advanced real estate market. The two versions of tours offer home sellers the advantages of a 24-hour a day, seven-day a week open house, at the home buyers convenience. One, added to all listings on the multiple listing services utilized, on Realtor.com and on many regional and national listing search websites and one created by ERA corporate which is available to all ERA real estate offices worldwide, bringing additional attention to each ERA Justin Realty listing.

Vick said, “Our visual tours include views of the interiors and exteriors of ERA Justin listed properties. Online visitors can tour properties at any hour, from their home, office, or from anywhere in the world. The expectations of today's real estate home buyers and sellers are high, and as millions of viewers use the Internet to look for a home, it is critical to have the best tools to promote our listings online. Our visual tours help potential buyers view a property's attributes so much better than just a text description or a single photo of a house; for example, consumers can view both interior and exterior views. ERA Justin Realty offers this additional service to each of our sellers on every listing that we market for sale. Hundreds of area sellers select ERA Justin Realty as their Realtor of choice each year. We work to exceed their expectations and that makes us truly proud.”

Continuing, she said, “Our online visual tours also increase a listing's exposure to potential buyers, which our home sellers find very attractive. More exposure means more pre-approved buyers to potentially see each listing. More exposure potentially brings more buying contracts to be considered, giving each seller a better opportunity to sell their house at a higher price. Buyers who view visual tours are potentially strong, interested prospects. There is no cost to our sellers for this added value service.”

Buyers and sellers interested in learning more about ERA Justin Realty can reach any of the firm's sales professionals who will be pleased to provide extensive details.

Vick added, “Because of our daily priorities, we proudly received the prestigious ERA world-wide 2003-2012 ‘Commitment to Excellence Award’, a premier ERA real estate firm from approximately 30,000 ERA brokers and agents. Only outstanding business entities are honored and receive it. ERA Real Estate was a recipient of ‘Highest Satisfaction for First Time Home Buyers Among Full Service Real Estate Firms.’ Award. For these reasons ERA Justin Realty should be your buying and selling Realtor of choice.”

She then concluded, “All of our ERA Justin Realty full service Realtor salespersons can be reached at either of our 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 our websites at www.ERAJustin.com or www.ERAJustinRealty.com."

ERA Justin Realty heading toward 2014 with First Homebuyer Tips

Julia Dagistanli, Realtor salesperson with ERA Justin Realty offers first homebuyer tips. Having received many positive reviews and production awards, New Jersey Monthly Magazine honored her with highest in overall satisfaction in 2011 and 2013.

ERA Justin Realty heading toward 2014 with First Homebuyer Tips

ERA Justin Realty, a leading real estate firm and a Realtor of choice since 1950 serves the many communities of Bergen, Passaic, Essex and Hudson Counties and has sold thousands of homes to repeat and first time homebuyers.  Seeing shifts in the industry from seller’s markets to buyer’s markets as well as varied shifts in mortgage interest rates, historically their buyers have enjoyed both the benefits of home ownership as well as value appreciation over the years. 

ERA Justin Realtor salesperson, Julia Dagistanli stated, “It is now year end and if you are contemplating the purchase of your first home, congratulations! As you probably know, buying a home is one of the biggest financial commitments you can make. It is also a process filled with anticipation and excitement. To help keep you sleeping soundly, here are answers to three big questions that interest many potential first-time homeowners.

Question #1: How do I decide what to look for in a home?  It’s easier than you think. Sit yourself down and list what’s important to you in a home. The purchase of every home involves making tradeoffs, so be sure to prioritize your list.  One element is architectural style. Do you prefer a Colonial, a Cape Cod or a modern look? An important factor to consider is living space. How much room do you need right now, and to meet anticipated needs?  Make a list of features that must be a part of your home. Perhaps that Olympic-size pool and tennis court can be put off for another day, but you may absolutely need an eat-in kitchen now.  It’s all a matter of your taste and personal style.

Question #2: Where should I begin the search?  That old real estate adage about “location, location, location” aside, choosing where to live is usually determined by your personal circumstances and desires.  Do you have a particular community, or even a particular block, in mind?  What is it about the location of your new home that is most important to you?  Do you prefer an urban, suburban or rural setting? Consider proximity to work, schools, shopping, entertainment and houses of worship. Once you’ve narrowed your list of potential candidates, the ERA Justin Realty winning search websites can be an excellent tool for learning what a particular community has to offer.

Question #3: How can I find financing that makes sense for me? Homes are affordable for qualified buyers. Interest rates are the lowest than we’ve seen in decades. Innovative financing plans are available to fit a broad range of needs.

Still, the last thing you want to do is start out in your first home saddled with an uncomfortable level of debt. Seeking the advice of one of our ERA Justin Realtor salesperson who can give you the details on financing options that match your qualifications is a big step in the right direction.

Once you’ve narrowed your search, talk to one of our ERA Justin Realty real estate professionals who serves the community you’d like to call home. Our teammates are trained to guide you through your purchase every step of the way. Our websites www.ERAJustin.com and www.ERAJustinRealty.com bring up-to-date listings directly to you, and we can suggest many mortgage lenders who offer loan programs expressly designed to meet the needs of qualified first-time homebuyers.

The path to finding your first home is exciting. Once you have the answers to the big questions, the search can be fulfilling, and even fun!"

Ron Darby, ERA Justin Realty Broker Co-owner concluded, “ERA Justin Realty proudly received the prestigious ERA world-wide 2003 - 2012 ‘Commitment to Excellence Award’, selected from 30,000 ERA brokers and agents nationwide. Only outstanding business entities are honored and receive it.  ERA Real Estate was also a past recipient of ‘Highest Satisfaction for First Time Home Buyers Among Full Service Real Estate Firms’ and ‘Highest Satisfaction for First Time Home Sellers.’ through J.D. Powers.  For these reasons ERA Justin Realty should be your buying and selling Realtor of choice."

The ERA Justin Realty full service Realtor salespersons can be reached at either of their two Rutherford offices at 118 Jackson Avenue and 57 Park Avenue.  By office phone (201) 939-7500, (201) 438-0588 or (201) 438-SOLD.

ERA Justin Realty's Community Service Group helps make Thanksgiving Special for Area Families

ERA Justin Realtor salespersons, the firm's Community Service Group, prepare

Thanksgiving dinners for families in need. L to R: Fara Espandi with baby Mia, Carol D. Calamari, Grace Tirrito, Ilene Harpuder, Glenn Elliot, Peggy McLaughlin, Michelle Korosy, Julia Dagistanli and Cathy Vick. Not pictured is Jennifer Darby Metzger and Denise Leonessa.

ERA Justin Realty's Community Service Group helps make
Thanksgiving Special for Area Families

The surrounding communities recognize ERA Justin Realty as a real estate market leader since 1950. They are also recognized as the number one agency in sold and closed Rutherford sales for the past twelve years, as well as generating multi-thousands of closed transactions.

Little known is the firm's Community Service group, made up of dedicated ERA Justin Realtor salespersons who also join together for many charitable efforts including volunteers for the Rutherford Community Pantry.

This holiday season is a bit better as the ERA Justin volunteers consisting of Jennifer Darby Metzger, Carol D. Calamari, Ilene Harpuder, Peggy McLaughlin, Cathy Vick, Fara Espandi, Denise Leonessa, Michelle Korosy, Glenn Elliot and Julia Dagistanli worked to provide families with delicious Thanksgiving dinner baskets with turkey, dressing and the fixins' to an abundance of delicious veggies and desserts.

The mission of the Rutherford Community Pantry is to be a volunteer non-profit organization which meets emergency and ongoing needs for food and personal hygiene items for citizens of Rutherford and members of Rutherford Institutions who are referred by an approved agency Their prime mission is to maintain services to keep their visitors free from hunger. They work hard to maintain each individual’s dignity by offering choices for personal needs as well. They have nearly 200 households registered for pantry services. Donations of food or personal hygiene items may be dropped off at the Pantry during the hours of operation. For larger donations, please call the Pantry to arrange a drop-off time. The Rutherford Community Pantry is a joint effort of community faith congregations, organizations, and concerned citizens.

They also gratefully accept tax-deductible monetary donations payable to Rutherford Community Pantry, Inc. and they may be sent to The Rutherford Borough Hall, 176 Park Avenue, Rutherford, NJ 07070. By phone, (201) 460-3000 x3168.

To participate or donate your time with the ERA Justin Community Service Group contact them at ERA Justin Realty. The firm has been honored as a ‘Top-100’ ERA firm worldwide from over 2,600 ERA offices and is the recipient of the ‘ERA Commitment to Excellence’ award, who received this prestigious award nationwide for many consecutive years.

To speak with any of their agents, phone them or view their websites at www.ERAJustin.com, www.ERAJustinRealty.com and www.BuyBergenCounty.com. Their office phones are (201) 939-7500, (201) 438-0588 or (201) 438-SOLD.

Gloria Thomson Joins the ERA Justin Realty Team of Sales Professionals

Gloria Thomson Joins the ERA Justin Realty Team of Sales Professionals

It takes a client-first philosophy to provide excellent real estate service to buyers and sellers. That is how Gloria Thomson began her real estate career as both a New York and Pennsylvania Realtor. Dedicated, she served her buyers and sellers with strong work ethics and enthusiasm. She will now serve the ERA Justin Realty communities with that same top priority philosophy.

Gloria said, "My business approach is a result of first hand business background as a legal secretary where I prepared and worked with buyers and sellers on their real estate transactions. There are many qualities and skills that make for successful transactions. Integrity, in-depth community involvement, market knowledge, marketing savvy, effective negotiation skills and high-quality professional networks, all that ERA Justin Realty provides are hallmarks and reasons for me joining the firm."

Jennifer Darby Metzger, ERA Justin Realty broker co-owner added, "Gloria comes to us with additional strong real estate backgrounds including experience in remodeling of existing homes and she also provided general contractor experience when building two new homes.

We were her Realtor of choice when Gloria purchased two houses, one in Rutherford and now residing in Lyndhurst. That is truly an indication of her faith in us as a real estate firm. We've also been a Realtor of choice to thousands since 1950. Her professional credentials include membership in the New Jersey and Garden State Multiple Listing Services, RealSource Board of Realtors, National and New Jersey Association of Realtors. Her community involvement includes her relationship with the Women's Club of Lyndhurst as a volunteer and the Art Association of Rutherford."

Gloria added, "I'm lovingly involved with my family as a busy grand mother with four grandsons and with my daughter Lisa and son-in-law Steve of Rutherford. I'm awaiting the opportunity to reach out and serve you, your friends and family in your real estate needs throughout Bergen, Passaic, Essex and Hudson counties."

Gloria and her team of ERA Justin Realtor professionals stand ready to serve you. Because of their daily priorities, they proudly received the prestigious ERA 2003 through 2012 ‘Commitment to Excellence Award’ from nearly 300,000 ERA brokers and agents globally. Only outstanding business entities are honored and receive it. For these reasons ERA Justin Realty and Gloria can be your buying and selling Realtor of choice.

All of the ERA Justin 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 1000's of homes at their websites at www.ERAJustin.com and www.ERAJustinRealty.com.

ERA Justin Realty Award Achievers Exceed Expectations

ERA Justin Realtor salespersons and 2013 award achievers include Ilene Harpuder, Cathy Vick, Michelle Korosy, Carol D. Calamari, Peggy McLaughlin, Fara Espandi, Kristen Davis, June Incorvaia, Julia Dagistanli and broker co-owners Jennifer Darby Metzger and Carol Darby who presented their awards. Not pictured is Grace Tirrito. 

ERA Justin Realty Award Achievers Exceed Expectations

Although 2013 has been a growing real estate year for sales, buyers are waiting for the right house at the right price and smart sellers who think like buyers are benefiting. The ERA Justin Realty staff of sales professionals have worked diligently with sellers and buyers to continue to be a real estate market leader.  They offer the ERA Sellers Security Plan to area sellers where ERA Justin Realty will sell the house or ERA will buy it.  There are conditions to the plan, which may not be for every seller, but for those with a timeframe deadline it may be ideal.  Additionally, the firm is offering the ERA Home Protection Plan, which covers many components of the house for the buyer, when purchased by the seller, and the seller is covered during the listing period while the house is being marketed for sale.  Consumers are invited to review both plan programs with the ERA Justin Realty sales professionals.

Ask the ERA Justin Realty 1st, 2nd and 3rd quarter 2013 award achievers, how important proper house pricing is and the answer you will most likely hear over and over again is "realistically.” Ask any of these Leadership Circle achievers who will provide a complimentary Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) and you will have the answers to your real estate questions.  They include, Ilene Harpuder, Cathy Vick, Michelle Korosy, Carol D. Calamari, Peggy McLaughlin, Fara Espandi, Kristen Davis, June Incorvaia, Julia Dagistanli, Grace Tirrito and broker co-owners Jennifer Darby Metzger and Carol Darby who presented their awards. 

Ron Darby, broker stated, “If you are thinking of selling your house in the near future and want to know for how much it might sell, then you should contact one of our ERA Justin Realtor salespersons and request a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) to determine its fair market value.  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 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 an estimate of the fair market value, a homeowner can call our ERA Justin Realty sales team. Our service is provided free of charge and without obligation.  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 houses took to sell. The resulting analysis can help a homeowner understand what today's market has impacted the price of the house, and it will provide a realistic figure of fair market value.  If a house is then put on the market, our sales professionals will use the CMA to help the homeowner establish a selling marketing program. The CMA information is very helpful in determining the true value of a house and the right asking price. In the end, however, the homeowner should decide on a price that he or she feels is competitive and consistent with the price at which other houses in the area have sold.  Our CMA report for our sellers is truly comprehensive in all aspects.  Complete with color photos and detailed information, it makes 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.  Proof of our abilities for our clients and customers shows in these fine award achievers, honored during the first three quarters of 2013.”

For more information, consumers can reach the ERA Justin Realty sales team at either of their two Rutherford offices at 118 Jackson Avenue and 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 Attracts Successful Agents From Within the Industry

Part of the ERA Justin Realty sales team who transferred to the firm from other area brokerages. Broker co-owners Jennifer Darby Metzger and Carol Darby, right and left pictured with Kristen Davis, Cathy Vick, Fara Espandi, Peggy McLaughlin, June Incorvaia, Glenn Elliot and Julia Dagistanli.

 ERA Justin Realty Attracts Successful Agents From Within the Industry

Bergen County, New Jersey:  How many careers exist today where management truly works to help their Realtor team be successful. According to Cathy Vick, a leading real estate salesperson with ERA Justin Realty, “We all work as a team each day to help achieve our goals for our buyers and sellers, in a constant changing real estate industry.

Our team of agents recently shared past experiences of their real estate beginnings and how and why they joined and now enjoy their successes at ERA Justin Realty. Our firm’s management team has hired, trained and guided agents to success hundreds of times. Many of our ERA Justin Realty agents have been with us for decades."

Ron Darby, broker co-owner said, “We are pleased to review the names of  agents who transitioned to ERA Justin Realty from other area real estate firms. Kristen Davis joined us fromCentury 21 Schilare Realty, Fara Espandi from A.W. Van Winkle Realty, Peggy Mc Laughlin - Van Winkle & Liggett Realty, June Incorvaia - Van Winkle & Liggett Realty, Edward Bulger - Edgerton Realty, Mary Maguire - Hometown Agency, Grace Tirrito - Auteri Realty, Cathy Vick - Century 21 Colonial Realty, Fred Schule, K Realty Co., Glenn Elliot - Prestia Realty, John Boguszewski - Century 21 Nancy Blevins Realty, Karen Hermey - Arlene Sigretto Realty, Karen Kelly - Kurgan Bergen Realtors, Carol Darby - K Realty Co., Rosemarie Zembryski - A.W. Van Winkle Realty, Denise Leonessa - Prudential Professionals, Soila Columbie - Century 21 Nancy Blevins Realty, Pamela Collins - Prudential Professionals, Julia Dagistanli - Prudential Professionals, and Ron Darby - K Realty Co.

Many have grown with us over decades and have stellar real estate careers.  Collectively ERA Justin Realty has generated thousands of listings and sales and have received nearly 800 testimonials and reviews from our sellers and buyers.  In addition we proudly feature other agents who joined us as new licensees.  Our ERA Justin Realty team totals nearly 30 sales professionals.”

Vick continued, “As real estate trends change we watch and listen. Our brokers offers one of the strongest earning structures for agents, once again bringing our firm to the forefront.  We also are given strong marketing opportunities and full Internet exposure for our listings as a market leader.  Full color page advertising of our listings in the South Bergenite  brings an abundance of potential buyers to our agents while giving our sellers strong marketing exposure.  It’s part of our firm's ‘Winning Edge Teammate Advantage’ benefit package, an exclusive with us. We are considered a real estate firm offering a superior level of support to our agents, sellers and buyers, since opening for business 1950.

ERA Justin Realty has been honored as a ‘Top-100’ ERA firm worldwide from over 2,600 ERA offices and is the recipient of the ‘ERA Commitment to Excellence’ award, one to receive this prestigious award nationwide for consecutive years.  For these reasons, agents both newly licensed and experienced who join us have the potential to begin strong earnings immediately. Our‘Winning Edge Teammate Advantage’ package has been structured so agents have a sense of pride in their industry, our firm and other benefits which they deserve in this new age of real estate.”

Darby concluded, “To speak with any of our agents, phone us or view our websites at www.ERAJustin.com, www.ERAJustinRealty.com and www.BuyBergenCounty.com." 

ERA Justin Realty operates two state-of-the-art Rutherford offices at 118 Jackson Avenue and 57 Park Avenue.  By office phone (201) 939-7500, (201) 438-0588 or (201) 438-SOLD. 

ERA Justin Realty Participates in Kip Center Holiday Festival

The Kip Center ERA Justin Realty 2013 Starfish holiday wreath. Pictured L to R  Ilene Harpuder, Karen Kelly, Glenn Elliot, Carol D. Calamari, Rosemarie Zembryski, James Dagistanli, Matthew Dagistanli, Fara Espandi, Jennifer Darby Metzger and Julia Dagistanli. Cathy Vick not pictured.

                

 ERA Justin Realty Participates in Kip Center Holiday Festival

 

Rutherford, New Jersey:  It was just fall, but within a wink and a blink a chill is now in the air, the malls are all decked out with holiday displays, shoppers are out and about and it’s also beginning to look a lot like Christmas at Rutherford’s Kip Center, the areas recreation and nutritional citizen center, where area residents enjoy daily activities and lunch programs. Holiday trees, decorative wreaths have brought much cheer to the Kip Center located at 55 Kip Avenue for its annual Festival of Trees and Wreaths, as well as much needed donations.

 

Holiday displays abound with participants who were as busy as holiday elves getting ready for the upcoming Kip Center drawing, when dozens of decorated trees and wreaths will be given to winners through their annual holiday drawing. The event helps raise needed donations used to fund the varied activities at the center.

 

Assisting in the creation of the ERA Justin Realty 2013 Starfish holiday wreath was Ilene Harpuder, Karen Kelly, Glenn Elliot, Carol D. Calamari, Rosemarie Zembryski, James Dagistanli, Matthew Dagistanli, Fara Espandi, Julia Dagistanli, Jennifer Darby Metzger and Cathy Vick.

 

Cathy Vick and Rosemarie Zembryski of ERA Justin Realty are the firm’s coordinators for their 2013 charitable event, and recently presented the unique theme wreath designed with special selected beach shells, starfish and much love. They said, "Our wreath submission is part of our ERA Starfish Project, our effort to make a difference in our community one person at a time. In order to reach a wide range of individuals and spread our spirit, we dedicate our time to a wide range of charities. We feel that one person making a difference to another can lead to many people making a difference in society. We all have the opportunity to help create positive change. You might not be able to change the entire world, but at least you can change a small part of it, for someone. Our focus is to bring financial benefits to the Kip Center fundraiser. We're happy to report that our past entries have been cited by the Kip Center as ‘Most Creative In the Business Category,’ for past years.”   

 

Ron Darby, ERA Justin Realty broker co-owner said,  "Our Starfish Project started with an old passage. 'An old man walks along a beach and sees a young boy throwing something into the water. As he approaches he sees hundreds of starfish lining the beach, washed in from the tide. The young boy is rushing around throwing the starfish back into the water one by one. The old man asks why he bothers, it's pointless.  There are too many starfish to help them all. As he flings a starfish deep into the water, the young boy replies, It mattered to that one.'  Tis the season for giving. By helping the Kip Center raise money with ERA Justin Realty’s donation of our Starfish holiday wreath and others you are helping that one or many in the community. Stop by the Kip Center for a chance to win!  It's always a win-win situation locally and you will be helping our area seniors immensely. Contact the Kip Center for details on their charitable drawing."

 

 You may read about the firm’s fundraising activities, their Starfish Project and more at their websites, www.ERAJustin.com and www.ERAJustinRealty.com, or phone any of their teammates at (201) 939-7500, (201) 438-0588 or (201) 438-SOLD if you would like to assist in their ongoing fundraising activities.

 

ERA Justin Realty Shares Do's and Don'ts of mixing architectural styles

Jennifer Darby Metzger, with Lifetime membership in the NJAR Distinguished Sales Club for more than 10 years of Bronze, Silver and Gold NJAR Awards and being a broker co-owner of ERA Justin Realty shares her outreach to the National Trust for Historic Preservations, evident in her report on mixing architectural styles.

ERA Justin Realty Shares Do's and Don'ts of mixing architectural styles

Most of us appreciate the aesthetic value of historic homes, and have even been known to fall in love with them from time to time.

Jennifer Darby Metzger, ERA Justin Realty Broker co-owner is partnered with the National Trust for Historic Preservation and has increased her educational outreach centering on the preservation of historic properties. Having this designation makes her familiar with architecture that spans more than three centuries of history, ranging from stately Federal mansions and handsome Italianate row houses to modest Queen Anne cottages and modest bungalows.

She stated, “As reported in Inman News, not long ago, in a pleasant, sixties-era neighborhood of California ranchers, reporter came across a renovated house that looked all too familiar. The owner had replaced the original front doors, all the windows and the garage door in a style that could most kindly be described as Home Depot eclectic. To begin with, there was a huge, modernistic vinyl picture window. A few feet away were a pair of casement windows bordered with those now-inescapable craftsman style ‘simulated divided lites. The garage door, meanwhile, was topped with a row of little Colonial sunburst windows, while the front doors boasted an elaborate Frank Lloyd Wright pattern done in beveled glass. Just about the only style that was absent, in fact, was that of the original California rancher. Setting aside the wisdom of trying to transform one architectural style into another, any one of these motifs might have worked had it been used consistently and alone. Combining them all together, however, simply yielded a stylistic hodgepodge.”

Metzger Continued, “It's amazing how a single motif can call up a whole architectural style. Motifs act as a kind of visual shorthand -- when we see fishscale shingles, we think Victorian. When we see zigzags, we think Deco. When we see curlicues, we think Spanish, and so on. But this same suggestive power can cause a lot of trouble when it's not used carefully. Few motifs, for example, could be more at odds than those New Englandish sunbursts being played against the jagged lines of Prairie School glass just a few feet away. Probably the most clear-cut dividing line between irreconcilable motifs is the one between traditional and modern architecture. There are always exceptions, but in general, traditional and modern styles spring from diametrically opposed philosophies, and seldom the twain shall meet. This realization might have discouraged our exemplary renovator from mixing in a little Ben Franklin with his Frank Lloyd Wright.

Is all this just stylistic nitpicking? Sure -- but nitpicking is what makes for good design. Nor are such clashing motifs something that would only bother an architect. Lately, more and more homeowners come primed with an impressive grasp of architectural styles -- due, no doubt, to This Old House style TV shows and instant Google searches. Lots of people are able to sense when things don't seem to fit together right. So unless you aim to be eclectic, try to limit yourself to a few favorite motifs, and apply them consistently. If you use segmental arches, for example, don't mix them with round ones -- the first speaks Italian, while the second screams in Spanish. For similar reasons, don't mix double-hung windows with sliders, Art Nouveau with Art Deco, divided lites with glass block, and so on. All of these pairings come from very different eras and sources, and they'll get along none too happily in one facade.

If you're not sure which motif goes with which style, consult some books on the style or period you're interested in. Find five or six examples of buildings you really like, and take note of the motifs they have in common. Then, pay equally close attention to the things you don't find, and you won't be confused by those mixed-up motifs.”

ERA Justin Realty has been recognized by multi-thousands of buyers and sellers since 1950 as their Realtor of choice and is noted as an area market leader. They proudly received the prestigious ERA 2003-2012 Commitment to Excellence Award, a premier ERA award and selected from approximately 2,600 ERA firms from across the nation. For these reasons ERA Justin Realty should be your buying and selling Realtor of choice. They also offer their publication Real Estate Results in Writing featuring more than 700 reviews from their buyers and sellers about their services.

Jennifer Darby Metzger and the entire ERA Justin Realtor salesperson 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. Also view 1000's of homes at their websites at www.ERAJustin.com and www.ERAJustinRealty.com.

ERA Justin Realty’s Glenn Elliot: Helping Renters Become Buyers in 2013

Glenn Elliot, ERA Justin Realty Broker Salesperson has won many awards as monthly top overall producer. He was also awarded as Top Team member of the ERA Top Gun Academy, a Graduate of the Realtor Institute (GRI), a Certified Residential Specialist (CRS), and  more. Glenn prides himself on being 1st in service to his clients and customers. His focus includes helping renters become buyers.

 

ERA Justin Realty’s Glenn Elliot: Helping Renters Become Buyers in 2013

 

Nothing compares to the feeling of having a place to call home. At one time or another, however, most of us have felt frustration at seeing hard-earned money go into rent every month rather than a more permanent house payment. Renting is most people's first step toward home ownership, but what do you need to do to realize the dream of owning a home?  ERA Justin Realty’s Glenn Elliot shares important insight for South Bergenite readers who want to become a homeowner.

 

“Sometimes, it's not the regular rent-money obligations but other expenses that are the main obstacle in saving. A whole debt-counseling industry has arisen to guide consumers in getting out from under what they owe. Smart saving, not depriving yourself, just ensuring stability and enjoyment over the longest term involves many moves both major and simple, and can help prepare you for that first down payment.

 

On the simple end, rediscovering home cooking (and enjoying the leftovers as brownbag lunches) can amount to significant savings as compared to regularly dining out. On a higher level of financial planning, establishing a household budget and sticking to it, including a specific amount set aside for savings every month can get you to your home-affording goals sooner than you might have imagined.

 

You may also want to meet with a counselor who might negotiate a lower rate and set a sensible structure for your repayments on credit cards, while advising you how to ease dependence on them. This not only gets you on your own financial feet, but helps keep your credit rating intact for the very home loan you hope to someday secure.

 

There are additional ways to start working toward home ownership. Some sellers will enter into a rent-to- buy agreement, in which part of the regular rent is considered an installment of the home's down payment, which, once built up, can help you obtain financing. Low income renters may also qualify for federal "Section 8" vouchers which are paid to the landlord, subsidizing your rental expenses and helping you save for a permanent home.

 

Just as some renting options allow you to set funds aside, some types of purchases can help defray your costs even as you fulfill the stepped up obligations of home ownership. Pooling resources with other buyers to occupy a two-family home could be one; buying such a home by yourself and renting one half of it could be another.

 

Even if your economics remain challenging, there are low-down-payment mortgages, and other forms of financing for special circumstances, available to buyers who meet the right criteria. Our ERA Justin Realtor sales professionals can help you navigate through these options, accessing financing programs through the varied mortgage lenders who we may recommend. He or she can also identify what government help might be available, and generally counsel you on your readiness to be a buyer, and on what else you might need to do to get there. If you consult the right sources, your personal counselors and seek common-sense strategies, then your every move in the renter's world can be pointing you home.”

 

Elliot concluded, “ Our team at ERA Justin Realty have many answers and are available just a phone call way.  Because of our daily priorities, we proudly received the prestigious ERA world-wide 2003 - 2012 ‘Commitment to Excellence Award’, one of several selected from ERA real estate firms with approximately 30,000 brokers and agents. We are the Realtor of choice to thousands of buyers and sellers since 1950.

 

Jennifer Darby Metzger, ERA Justin Broker co-owner added, “Ask to see our over 700 reviews of our services from our buyers and sellers. All across the nation, the most coveted award that can be achieved in business is the ‘J.D. Power & Associates’ award, in the past received by ERA Real Estate for Highest Satisfaction for First Time Home Buyers Among Full Service Real Estate Firms.  For these reasons ERA Justin Realty should be your buying and selling Realtor of choice.”

 

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



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

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

ERA Justin Realty Tips for First Time Homebuyers

With a lifetime membership in the New Jersey Association of Realtors Distinguished Sales Club, Ilene Harpuder of ERA Justin Realty offers valued suggestions for first time homebuyers. She and her team of Realtor salespersons have many answers and will guide you through the home buying process.

ERA Justin Realty Tips for First Time Homebuyers

Ask ERA Justin Realtor salesperson Ilene Harpuder and she will advise, “Buying a home is oftentimes a concerning decision, possibly daunting the first time. But by asking the right questions and considering a few simple but important issues, you can pave the way for some powerful beginner's luck. Becoming a first-time homeowner may have uncertainties to you , but remember that you're not alone. A past National Association of Realtors® survey says, first-timers made up nearly half of all homebuyers. With so many making the move, you can too. With the improving real estate economy, our strong list of 2013 homes purchased and new listings presented at our office each week, this is a wonderful time to finally own your dream home.

Chances are they may have had the help of an ERA Justin Realty professional. Realtors® can navigate the complexities of the home buying process, and let you concentrate on the rewards of home ownership. Our ERA Justin Realty team will tell you that there are three major points you should take into account: finding the right financing, investigating the community you're considering, and evaluating your prospective home's qualities.

Before your home search begins it's helpful to determine what price-range you are comfortable with and get pre-approved for a loan. Some hopeful home seekers will quit the search before they start, out of worry that they can't afford a down payment or sheer unfamiliarity with the financing process. But today those worries are often unfounded; there is an array of financing options available for aspiring qualified homeowners of almost every income and one is likely to fit your unique financing needs.

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

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

Keep in mind that being new to all this does have its advantages. Having an ERA Justin Realtor salesperson at hand and knowing what to ask and obtaining good guidance can help make sure you get it right the first time.”

“Ron Darby, Broker Co-owner added, "There is a difference in real estate companies, and our ERA Home Protection Plans are perfect examples of having confidence in your purchase. We will provide the conditions of the plans. We ask Buyers and Sellers to compare. We believe that in order to exceed expectations of what our Realtor salespersons are about, we don’t offer just real estate basics, we try to be as comprehensive as possible. In that way, we know that our Buyers and Sellers will hold us all in the highest regard."

ERA Justin Realty proudly received the prestigious ERA world-wide 2003 through 2012 ‘Commitment to Excellence Award’, one from 2,600 ERA offices. Only outstanding business entities are honored and receive it. ERA Real Estate was the recipient of ‘Highest Satisfaction for First Time Home Buyers Among Full Service Real Estate Firms.’ Award from J.D.Powers. ERA Justin Realty has been a buying and selling Realtor of choice since 1950.

The ERA Justin Realty full service real estate 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. Also view 1000's of homes at their websites at www.ERAJustin.com and www.ERAJustinRealty.com.