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 Shows How To Save More Than Energy: The Cost-Efficient Home

ERA Justin Realtor salesperson Michelle Korosy gives direction as seasons change and cooler weather is near. A full time professional, Michelle services buyers and sellers throughout Bergen Passaic, Essex and Hudson counties.  

 

ERA Justin Realty Shows How To Save More Than Energy: The Cost-Efficient Home

 The energy-efficient home is moving from the horizons of futuristic planners to the agenda of current homeowners, another in a series of articles for North Jersey Newspapers, from ERA Justin Realty, the company that shows their buyers and sellers; there is a difference in real estate companies, your Realtor of choice since 1950.

Michelle Korosy, a Realtor salesperson with the firm, offered, “As we approach cooler weather, It’s not so much a matter of newer technologies, though alternate energy sources like solar is making inroads in the modern home. It may be well worth it to give your home an efficiency upgrade. First, you'll want to figure out what needs fixing. To identify problem areas, contact a qualified professional and get an energy audit of your home. Some upgrades are simple and less expensive. For example, one common problem is insulation. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) says that proper ceiling insulation alone can reduce your heating bill by as much as 20 percent. Other energy draining can be solved by replacing old fixtures with more modern and efficient models. Windows, doors and skylights equipped with sealed double or triple panes also reduce heating and cooling costs, and are features for which utility companies often offer rebates. 

The EPA notes that air leakage from gaps in your home’s structure,  holes for plumbing and wiring, for instance,  accounts for 25 to 40 percent of the energy a common home uses for heating and cooling. Similar troubles come from inadequately sealed duct joints and otherwise inefficient, older heating and cooling systems.

Even conventional systems such as ventilation can release enough heat from your home to cost a fortune in unnecessary bills. Upgrading these systems can pay for itself, and later pay off as an attractive resale value when possible buyers of your home want to benefit from this form of savings. 

And when you’re ready to go from finding the problem to fixing it, the government doesn’t just supply the bad news, it provides some solutions, as well. The EPA’s Energy Star rating has appeared on numerous products, identifying efficient appliances and other home furnishings that enable vast savings. Energy Star central air conditioners can save approximately 20 percent on cooling bills. 

Studies have shown the resale advantages of homes with lower energy costs. Look for such solutions, and buyers may be more likely to look into your home. Your utility bills, Energy Star fact sheets and other documentation can be attractive proof to present to prospective buyers.

In the short term, you can save on some of these improvements even as they help enhance your home’s value. In addition to offering expert advice and home-selling solutions, real estate brands such as ERA Justin Realty, feature the Select Services^SM network of national and local vendors with leading household products.

Consult an ERA Justin Realtor salesperson on how to navigate the options and opportunities available for the energy-conscious homeowner. Your investment in the future can have many returns right in the present.”

Korosy continued, “We are pleased to offer our ongoing consumer articles in the North Jersey Newspapers. Truly, there is a difference in real estate companies, and our articles and our ERA Home Protection Plans are additional examples. Details are available. We ask Buyers and Sellers to compare.  We believe that in order to exceed expectations of what a real estate firm 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 in the highest regard and come to us to review our marketing plans when it is time to sell.”

ERA Justin Realty proudly is a real estate market leader since 1950 and has received the prestigious ERA national 2003 through 2012 ‘Commitment to Excellence Award’, one of a few ERA real estate firms from 2,600. Only outstanding business entities are honored and receive it.  ERA Real Estate was also the 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.

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. Also view 1000's of homes at their websites at www.ERAJustin.com and www.ERAJustinRealty.com.



Fixer Uppers a Reality for Buyers in Improving 2013 Real Estate Economy

Carol Darby, Ron Darby and Jennifer Darby Metzger broker co-owners with combined real estate knowledge and experience approaching 100 years gives this team the background to lead their ERA Justin Realtor salespersons to continuous success. The firm, a trusted name in real estate since 1950 suggests purchases of fixer uppers as good choices for the Fall 2013 market.

Fixer Uppers a Reality for Buyers in Improving 2013 Real Estate Economy

Several years ago when the housing market was mired in real estate recession, buyers shied away from houses that needed work. The buyers who weren't put off from buying completely were interested only in turnkey homes that were in move-in condition. ERA Justin Realty has worked within all real estate economic landscapes, is well versed, assists its buyers and sellers and has been your trusted name in real estate since 1950. As we enter the Fall 2013 market, there are many buying and selling opportunities for all.

Carol Darby, ERA Justin Realty broker co-owner offered, "It was risky for some buyers to buy a house that needed work. But now the housing market is recovering and buying a house to fix up seems more reasonable, and is happening. There are basically two types of  'fixer' buyers. One is the flipper who buys a house, spruces it up quickly and sells it at a profit. The goal is not to hold the property as an investment, but to find a buyer as soon as possible after the redo is complete.

Flippers should avoid buying houses that have major problems to remedy, which will eat into profits. A way to maximize profit and minimize carrying costs during the rehab period is to understand the lower price market and if possible buy with all cash. Buy in areas where employment and transportation are good so that you will have a pool of buyers for your product when it’s ready to sell."

Jennifer Darby Metzger, broker co-owner added, "Select the neighborhood. Is it conveniently located? Are houses selling quickly? What is the average days on market from list date to sale date? This information is critical to knowing how fast you can turn the property over to a new buyer. The other type of fixer buyers are those who buy for their own use. They do not intend to flip the property, but want to increase the value of the property over time while providing a roof over their heads. This type of buyer may be willing to pay more for a property than the flipper, but the price paid and the amount spent on improvements should be researched before making a purchase. Ask our ERA Justin Realty team for the sale price of recently sold houses in the neighborhood that were similar to the one you’re considering, but in much better condition. Be sure to review how much the renovations will cost."

Ron Darby, broker co-owner concluded, "Keep a close eye on the costs of your renovations while you’re working on the project. There’s always the temptation to improve more than you had intended once you see how good the improvements you have made look. Even though you’re improving the house for yourself, remember that you will be selling someday and hope for a profit on the time and money you invested. It’s a great time to buy at prices that were not possible at the peak of the market. Just make sure you know values for the neighborhood for a property that needs work. Fixer buyers who paid high prices at the peak of the last market cycle possibly didn't make a profit. The housing market has picked up and will hopefully continue to move in a positive direction. However, the house sale market is continually changing and varies from one location to the next.  A well-informed, level-headed approach is the best bet and our ERA Justin Realtor salespersons can provide you with information so you can make an informed decision."

There is a difference in real estate companies and the ERA Justin Realty broker owner's input makes that difference important. In fact, their buyers and sellers have put their reviews in writing about their Realtor salespersons. They have on file for the asking, 'Real Estate Results In Writing,' their report of nearly 800 quotes, testimonials and reviews from their buyers and sellers.

All of 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 and www.ERAJustinRealty.com.

ERA Justin Realty's Cutting Edge Technology for Buyers and Sellers for 2013

Margaret (Peggy) McLaughlin a long-term Realtor salesperson with ERA Justin Realty has been a market leader for decades with listings sold and sales through the firm.  She has achieved the New Jersey Association of Realtors Distinguished Sales Club Award for more than ten years of top production, recognizing her as one of the best-of-the-best throughout Bergen, Passaic, Hudson and Essex Counties.

              

ERA Justin Realty's Cutting Edge Technology for Buyers and Sellers for 2013

Through the power of the Internet, ERA Justin Realty has reached heights with its buyer/seller international websites, viewed by multi-thousands of buyers and sellers each month.

Recognizing the power of the Internet, where approximately 85% of buyers begin their house search, ERA Justin Realty has made its property listings available through strong and productive on-line Internet services.

“We have developed two exclusive winning websites. Each has been a major success for us and a win-win success for our buyers and sellers,” cited Margaret (Peggy) McLaughlin a Rutherford resident and ERA Justin Realtor salesperson who has achieved the New Jersey Association of Realtors Distinguished Sales Club Award for more than ten years of top production, recognizing her as one of the best-of-the-best.

According to Peggy, “Our winning websites were developed to be user friendly and easy to find the information important to a buyer or seller  24 hours a day through both our ‘Our Featured Listings’ and ‘1000’s of Listings’ options. Choosing a single family, multi-family a condo or co-op?  Quick clicks and the information is on the screen with dozens of color photos, a custom virtual video tour and viewing information with instructions to set up a private showing or to inspect during our Open Houses. More quick clicks and one can read about our charitable efforts, community participation as well as information on schools, transportation and other valued information about our communities.”

It’s a comprehensive source of information about ERA Justin Realty and its services. The websites have been designed to provide home buyers and sellers with quick and simple ways to search property listings from anywhere in the world, and to learn helpful information about buying and selling a home. They also post their listings on more than fifty national websites for easy showing appointments.

“Properties listed are updated daily in order to provide current information, greater exposure for seller’s homes and better abilities for buyers to find their dream home online. After customers do their own fact-finding on our websites, they contact us because they value having one of our ERA Justin Realty sales professionals explain community services, growth, and transportation availabilities, provide local school reports and work closely with them in the purchasing process,” concluded Peggy.

Ron Darby, broker added,  “All across the ERA nation, a coveted award that we've achieved is the ‘Commitment to Excellence’ 2003-2012 award.  Only outstanding ERA entities are honored and receive this award from nearly 30,000 ERA brokers and agents. Our team of sales agents work to exceed buyer and seller expectations, and through our efforts this prestigious award has a home at our firm. Peggy is an important part of our participation.”

One can learn more and view the firm’s websites at www.ERAJustin.com and www.ERAJustinRealty.com. Reach all of the ERA Justin Realty sales professionals at either of their two Rutherford office locations at 118 Jackson Avenue or 57 Park Avenue. By phone all can be reached at (201) 939-7500, (201) 438-0588 or (201) 438-SOLD. We want to be your Realtor.



ERA Justin Realty’s Michelle Korosy: How Renters Become Buyers

ERA Justin Realtor salesperson Michelle Korosy provides insight so renters can focus on being buyers and have a home of their dreams. A full time sales professional with the firm serving buyers and sellers in Bergen, Passaic, Essex and Hudson counties, Michelle is well known for her strong listing and sales activity and also for her charitable efforts in the communities she serves.

 

                      ERA Justin Realty’s Michelle Korosy: How Renters Become Buyers 

   

Now, more than ever, rebounding from a national economic challenge, 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 Michelle Korosy shares important insight for North Jersey Newspapers 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 can 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  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 one of several area mortgage lenders. 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 and seek common-sense strategies, then your every move in the renter's world can be pointing you home.”

 

Michelle concluded, “ Our team at ERA Justin Realty have the answers and are just a phone call away. Through of our daily efforts, we will be pleased to present our publication of over 700 service reviews, 'Real Estate Results in Writing' from our renters, buyers and sellers. For these reasons and being a Realtor of choice to thousands since 1950,  ERA Justin Realty can easily be your Realtor of choice.”

 

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

 

ERA Justin Realtor professional Carol D. Calamari shares 2012 Tips for dressing  your house for a good showing. A Realtor professional with the firm and coming from a television background with an Emmy win, her knowledge brings important information to her buyers and sellers. The firm has a strong real estate presence throughout Bergen, Passaic, Hudson and Essex Counties

 

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

 

As we enter the 2012 fall real estate season, buyers and sellers know that it is a very different market and preparing perfectly means success or failure in their transactions.

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

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

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

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

ERA Justin Realty has proudly received the prestigious ERA global 2003-2011 ‘Commitment to Excellence Award’, selected from approximately 30,000 ERA real estate agents and brokers across the ERA world.  Only outstanding business entities are honored and receive it.  Ask to see 'Real Estate Results in Writing' our published report of over 700 written reviews of our company services. For these reasons ERA Justin Realty should be your buying and selling Realtor of choice.

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

Grace Tirrito a Realtor professional with ERA Justin Realty resides in Lyndhurst where a large part of her real estate listings and sales are prominent, as is Rutherford and other Bergen County communities. A career professional with decades of successful sales and sold listings, she offers with humor, one of our less favorite tasks.

 

                ERA Justin Realty Report:  Fall Selling with Humor. Ready, Get Set, Toss

 

ERA Justin Realty’s Realtor Grace Tirrito offers tips with a smile in getting those closets ready for the sale of your house. “For many, we hardly want to think about closets, but the day is nearing, hour by hour. When Grace arranges for an open house or appointment, you will no doubt make sure everything is tidy and clean. The dishes are put away, beds made, litter box cleaned. But, what about your closets?   Storage is a number one priority with home buyers. They want to make sure they have a place to put their stuff. Will your closets prove to be a selling point?
Ready? Here's how it goes. You get a phone call. Friends are dropping by for a few minutes, so you put everything into the closet - toys, coats and whatever. When your guests leave, you swear you will get to it tomorrow. Sometimes, tomorrow never comes. After a while, it becomes hard to close the door and you do not remember what is in there. It is now time to de-clutter and de-stress.
Everyone loves lots of closet space. Closets are where we keep clothing, shoes, and storage for seasonal items, sports equipment, linens and the endless supply of home necessities. The problem is it can become an 'out of sight, out of mind' issue. Since these things reside behind a closed door, they do not get much thought until the day we absolutely have to have that one thing in the very back.
It is not going to go away by itself, so take time to tackle it head on and get organized. Allow lots of time for this task. You probably won't be able to get through it in a day or even a weekend. Remember, it took you a long time to accumulate these items. You cannot expect to clean them all out in a few hours. You might want to tackle this chore in chunks of time, allowing a few weekends to get totally through the process.
You will find yourself agonizing over many decisions. The rule is, if you haven't worn it for 2 years, toss it. If it is a gift that Aunt Emma gave you 5 years ago and something you will never use, give it away. (Just don't tell Aunt Emma.) Pretend to yourself you are moving to smaller quarters, and you can only take the things you truly love. If you are having trouble, enlist the help of a friend who can be relentless.
Begin with clothing and shoes. Most of us keep favorites around far too long. 'I'm sure I can get back into that dress soon.' It only takes up valuable space in your home. Donate it to a charity. There is someone out there who will put your items to good use.
Think about your lifestyle as you are making these choices. Maybe your former employment was in an office and you needed to wear suits every day. Your current employment is a more casual job and your attire now reflects this attitude. Keep your favorite two suits and take the others to a second hand store or give them away. Retain clothing that works for your current way of living, not how you used to live.
Place everything in piles: (1) Keepers; (2) Maybes or Yard Sale; and (3) Donations. It might also help to obtain some of the organized storage available for closets. These are especially useful for those small items such as ties and belts. Everything will be neater and you will be able to find things quicker.
Toys and seasonal items are a little more difficult. If the kids have outgrown those old skates, pass them down to a friend. Holiday decorations can tug at your heartstrings, but if they are broken or no longer hold their luster, out they should go.  If you cannot bear to part with them, pack them in a storage box. By the time the de-cluttering is finished you should have room left over. Books, toys and clothing that is going to a charity should be boxed up or placed in plastic bags. If you are considering a yard sale, try to tag as you go along.
When you start sorting through paperwork, promise yourself to handle each piece only once. Papers that belong to other family members should be sorted and then handed over to that individual. Control newspaper and magazine pile-up by vowing to discard each issue by the time the next one arrives. On Sunday, Saturday's paper goes out whether or not it has been read. The same thing goes for magazines. Some offices or charities are happy to have them, especially hospital waiting rooms. As for regular bills, they can be organized with a portable file box.”
“There is a difference in real estate companies,” Grace continued, “Presenting consumer information, we believe, is in order to exceed sellers expectations of what ERA Justin Realty is about, as 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 700 quotes and testimonials from our sellers and buyers many seen in our television commercials. No other area real estate firm offers that.  Are we proud?  Absolutely!”

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 websites at www.ERAJustin.com and www.ERAJustinRealty.com.

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

ERA Justin Realtor professional Glenn Elliot with decades of real estate experience explains why fall 2012 is a great time to buy, with proper assistance. His focus to the industry has given him a legacy as a market leader in area communities of Bergen, Passaic, Essex and Hudson Counties. Glenn services Fortune-500 buyers and sellers in their transactions.

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

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

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

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

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

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

According to Ron Darby Broker Co-owner, “We work with our agents each day to help them achieve the goals of their buyers and sellers, and  the fall 2012 season is just in front of us.  In a constant changing real estate industry we invite new agents to join us. We want them to have the education needed for success. Opportunities are just a  phone call away."

 

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

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

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

ERA Justin Realty Receives Little League Championship Softball Trophy

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

ERA Justin Realty Receives Little League Championship Softball Trophy

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 ERA JUSTIN’S CATHY VICK ACHIEVES

“BEYOND EXCELLENCE” AWARD AND OFFERS TIMELY TIPS

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

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



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

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


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

Cathy and all of the ERA Justin Realty full service Realtors can be reached at either of their two Rutherford offices at 118 Jackson Avenue and 57 Park Avenue.  By office phone (201) 939-7500, (201) 438-0588 or (201) 438-SOLD. View 1000s of homes at their websites at http://www.erajustin.com/ and www.ERAJustinRealty.com

ERA JUSTIN REALTY HONORS LEADERS AT 2011 YEAR-END

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

 

ERA JUSTIN REALTY HONORS LEADERS AT 2011 YEAR-END

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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