Jennifer Darby Metzger’s Buyer and Seller Reviews Generates Major Growth at ERA Justin Realty

by Jennifer Darby Metzger

“Jennifer did a wonderful job. She was always so pleasant and easily accessible,

I’m extremely happy with the purchase and how it processed.”

Lina & Ricardo

“Jen was a pleasure to work with and always available when needed.”

Gina Colasurdo

“Thank you for all you did to get my house sold so fast!”

Mr. & Mrs. Whiteford

“Jen was wonderful, she is personable and efficient, a great combination. We will gladly recommend her to our friends.”

Howard Swagula – Jacqueline Ferruro

“Jennifer was a pleasure to work with, she understood my needs and found me the perfect home. Thank you.”

Margaret Garrigan

“Best realtor ever!”

Tom Verlingo

“Jennifer Darby did an excellent job!”

Kenneth Poro

“We met Jennifer Darby in 1996 when we bought our first house in Rutherford, and ever since she stayed friends with us and stayed in contact through mailings and phone.

She satisfied our needs in providing sales support and friendship.”

Mario Lobarinas – George Mcluckey

“Jennifer Darby was an absolute one of a kind sales associate, she was pleasant, professional, friendly and thorough from day one, the day we signed the listing agreement. She was always available and answered every question we had. Jen always went

above and beyond the call of duty to ensure our experience in selling our house was smooth, and always kept us in the loop. She offered & picked up documents, which were necessary for our closing since we could not. Kudos to Jennifer – She was fabulous!”

Arcangelo Montuori.

“Jennifer conducted herself very professionally, genuinely sincere and conscientiously involving the buy and sell of my condo. I own three properties and have had dealings with many realty companies and this time it was a pleasure.”

Dr. Andrew T. Leyble

“Jen was terrific! She was always there to answer my questions and very patient with me. I would highly recommend her to help buy a home.”

Dorian Simonetti

“Jen is great! She’s honest, straightforward and she knows her business. She’s also very sweet! I just love her! She’s become a friend and I’m so glad we found her!”

Bill and Sharon Barry

“Jennifer was great! She kept us informed every step of the way. She is wonderful to work with!”

Adrienne & John Jakubowski

“Jen and everyone at ERA-Justin were extremely helpful and professional. It was a pleasure working with all!”

Sandy Smagula

“Jen is very nice. She takes the time to explain everything. She is a very good worker, is lovely and kind and we love her!”

L. Caballero

“Jennifer handled our purchase excellently! She made buying our house extremely easy. Great Job!”

Carol and Eddie

“Ms. Darby stuck with me even though I kept changing requirements. She found what I needed and was able to handle the situation which was difficult.”

Louis Ambrosio

“Jennifer was always responsive and helpful when dealing with my questions or issues regarding our house.”

John Pyra

“Jennifer was very kind, patient and informative in helping us find our first home. She knew we were newly weds in search of our first home in a particular price range. She always made herself available to us. She assisted us at making the ‘American-Dream’ of owning a home a reality.”

The Koprowski Household

“I was very pleased with ERA-Justin. When our hopes were down thinking we were not going to find a house, Jennifer pulled this house almost out of thin air and it was love at first sight. We plan to be here for a long time and have Jennifer to thank.”

The Stecz Household

“Jennifer sold the house. Everyone at ERA were very nice to deal with.”

Ronald & Rose Ann Paar

“Jennifer, we would like to take a moment to recognize your organization for the expertise displayed with the rental of our house. The planning, progress reports and timely follow-up by Ms. Jennifer Darby was outstanding and ensured successful results.”

The Luscome Family

“Before listing my house with ERA, I had already signed a contract for an apartment in Butler, so referral services were not necessary, but I know would have been forthcoming had I needed them. In addition, I was most favorably impressed with Jennifer, her ability, knowledge and friendlessness.”

Evelyn Prince

“I found Jennifer Darby to be the most pleasant and knowledgeable representative that I have ever met. She has fine instincts for the business and unusually good intuitive attributes with respect to what her clients need and want. I have already recommended her to two people and even my mortgage bank. She is ‘aces’ I rarely give out compliments, so take this from whence it comes.”

Ted Refolo

“I found Jennifer to be very professional in handing the purchase of our house. She was very knowledgeable and helpful with this transaction. In addition, she showed a great deal of understanding when she had to deal with sensitive issues. She made us feel very comfortable. It was a pleasure working with her and this agency.”

Mr. and Mrs. Picone

“Jennifer was of great help in selling our home. A great person to know as a friend, more than a sales person. Jennifer has a great future in real estate.”

Frank Mitchel

“Jennifer goes above and beyond the call in serving my real estate needs. She helped me find movers, a handyman and charities. She actually helped me move things herself. She is a joy!”

Dorothy Davis

“You sold my house! Jennifer was very professional and we found her to be a pleasure to work with. Also the number of potential buyers was excellent.”

Mary and Michael Marino

“Great job!!! Jen, thanks for putting together a great plan and getting a good price.”

Ted and Karen Clark

“We were very pleased to work with Jennifer Darby. She is very professional and helpful with everything.”

Frank and Valerie Gontier

“Jennifer was an absolute pleasure to work with. She was thorough and kept me posted on everything going on throughout the entire sale.

H. Stevens

“ Very satisfied with Jennifer including keeping me informed through the process. I would use Jennifer again in buying or selling a home.”

Alexandra De La Rosa

“Jennifer was so helpful and friendly. From start to finish it was a wonderful experience. Thanks Jen.”

Dorothy Davis

“Jennifer, I have sent my comments to ERA Franchise Systems. I believe you will love them. They are superlative.”

Ted and Denise Refolo

“We were referred to Jennifer and very satisfied. She went above and beyond by driving us from Rutherford to northern Bergen County to see homes out of the general area.

Edward McClary

“Jennifer’s service was excellent as well as her courtesy, knowledge and helpfulness.”

Ed McClary

“Jennifer was a great agent. We had two other agents prior to Jennifer and they could not land us a home. Jennifer got us ours in two weeks and we closed two months after. Thank you Jennifer. We are very happy in our new home.”

Angela Alvarez

“Jennifer Darby gave me exceptional service during the process of the sale of my home. She is great to work with, is an awesome people person and made the whole process seamless! I loved working with her and would call her in a heartbeat if I considered moving again. She called me to make sure I understood everything step-by-step.”

Helaine Stevens

“Through prior contact, we used Jennifer. Very satisfied in all areas of the transaction.” Mike Marino

“Completely satisfied is the best level that describes the overall satisfaction with both ERA Justin Realty and Jennifer Darby.”

David Aufiero

“Jennifer Darby went above and beyond the call of duty in serving my real estate needs and greatly assisted in obtaining home inspection prior to completion of sales contact which was instrumental in closing the deal.”

Cary Brown

“Just wanted to say thank you for everything you did and went through for us. We know this was probably the worst deal you’ve been through!! Your knowledge, kindness, warmth and patience made it easier for us to deal with everything. We’ll refer you to everyone we know buying a house. Take care & good luck in the future. You deserve the best!!”

Dayna and John

“Fabulous! We wouldn’t have this home without them.”

Mike and Maureen Arendt

“Jennifer was great. She made a difficult situation much easier for us with her knowledge, patience and kindness. She went out of her way to find us a home we loved. We never felt pressured to bid on a house we didn’t love. We have recommended her to friends and family.

John Lasiw

“Jennifer offered me the ERA Home Warranty Plan and I’m very satisfied. I would use her again.”

Michael Scheibe

“Being referred to Jennifer, I was very satisfied in all areas of the transaction.”

Francis Maslag

“Thank you so much for helping in getting our new home. You are the best.”

Unsigned

“Jennifer made the experience of selling my condo and moving very easy. Jennifer is a great Realtor. I would never think of using anyone else.

Jennifer Aufiero

“Thank you so much for making the selling of my condo so easy and also for helping with the certificate of occupancy and the paperwork.”

Samuel Weiner

“Jennifer was a super A-one agent, a problem solver and negotiator. She truly cared.”

George W. McLuckey , Both buyer & seller

“My happiness was her first concern. Very good real estate agent. Very pleasant, compassionate, caring and I will highly recommend her to all my friends.”

Nancy Chastek

“Jennifer did a wonderful job with a very difficult sale. She went above and beyond the call of duty! We recommend her to anyone!”

Estate of Mildred Mortimer

“She was professional in areas pertaining to all transactions and very efficient.”

Mrs. Stanton & family

“Jennifer is wonderful to work with. She made everything pleasant and easy.”

Michael Scheibe & Joy Spano

“Jen did an incredible job of making a rough situation bearable!! She was caring, knowledgeable and supportive throughout the sale.”

Dayna Cirincone & John Lasiw

“Jen was absolutely wonderful! No one could have been more dedicated to helping us find what we wanted.”

Lynn and Dick Mc Laughlin

“ Jennifer Darby is top-of-the-line. She is very cooperative, courteous, intelligent and informative. A pleasure to work with.”

Mrs. T. Miskura

“Jennifer Darby is a pleasure to do business with. Would recommend Jennifer to anyone buying or selling a house!”

Robert Gallucci

“Your decision to not answer your cell phone while with us looking for a home was very much appreciated, full undivided attention was important to us.”

Castiblanco

“Jennifer Darby What more can I say? Everything turned out just fine.”

Thomas & Dorothy Miskura

“I was completely satisfied with her, made a schedule for me so I knew when agents were showing the house. She made every effort there was to sell my house.”

L. Kutny

“We had a problem with flood insurance on condo association & Jen Darby worked very hard to make the sale work. I would use this ERA Sales associate again in buying or selling a home.”

Ronald Telli

“Jennifer stands head & shoulders above every other Realtor in our area. Her knowledge, judgment and integrity is without equal.”

Patricia Tully

“Handled negotiations flawlessly kept all parties informed & made my deal work!

Available all times through out our home search & driving long distances.”

Richard McLaughlin

“Jen- Thanks so much for all your efforts selling our home. We appreciate your patience and dedication to getting our house sold!!”

Nick & Danielle Minoia

“Realtor made every effort to sell my home, the first Real Estate company we had Prudential did nothing for 6 months, I highly recommend this ERA Sales associate to a friend and/ or family member.”

Donald Rutigliano

“Jennifer was very professional & went out of her way to make sure our house was sold & that we closed as soon as possible. We had encountered some problems/delays due to our Buyers and she kept us informed & updated on what was going on. She also investigated and obtained answers to questions we had before our own Lawyers answered us. I would definitely recommend Jennifer to anyone who is interested in selling their home.”

Daniela Pineda

“Jen is a pleasure to work with. Always professional and ready to help.”

Gina Colasurdo

“Jennifer was extremely helpful in coordinating many different people who needed to get into the house to do work and fix problems. She was always professional and pleasant to deal with.”

Janet Tighe

“Jennifer was Always Available at all times throughout Our Home Search. She drove long distances to help us. She also handled Negotiations Flawlessly and kept all parties informed and with that she made my deal work!”

Richard McLaughlin

“Jennifer is a true professional in every sense of the word. She is always positive, eternally optimistic and a pleasure to work with.”

ERA Justin Realty • house for sale • Leadership Circle • NJ • realtors • Rutherford • March 8, 2014

by Jennifer Darby Metzger

ERA Justin Realty Leadership Circle award achievers (Standing) Grace Tirrito, Rosemarie Zembryski, Glenn Elliot, Cathy Vick, Ilene Harpuder, June Incorvaia, Carol D. Calamari, Peggy McLaughlin, Carol Darby. (Seated) Kristen Davis, Fara Espandi, Julia Dagistanli, Karen Kelly, Michelle Korosy and (not pictured) Jennifer Darby Metzger, your trusted Realtor agents and brokers and their company, in real estate since 1950, serving Bergen, Passaic, Hudson and Essex Counties have completed a strong 2013 in listings, sold and closed residential and commercial real estate.

ERA Justin Realty Leadership Circle Winners Bring Success To Consumers

Flowers will begin to bloom, buds will be on the trees and ERA Justin Realty Leadership Circle achievers will bring satisfaction to hundreds of buyers and sellers in 2014, repeating many successes of 2013. This is the time when families focus on real estate sales, but the first question sellers ask is, “How do I price my house?”

Ask these ERA Justin Realty Leadership Circle performance achievers from 2013 and the answer you will hear over and over again is “realistically.” Ask and they will provide a complimentary Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) and you will have the detailed answers to your real estate questions. The Leadership Circle achievers who were cited for their performance to their buyers and sellers include Grace Tirrito, Rosemarie Zembryski, Glenn Elliot, Cathy Vick, Ilene Harpuder, June Incorvaia, Peggy McLaughlin, Kristen Davis, Fara Espandi, Julia Dagistanli, Karen Kelly, Michelle Korosy and Jennifer Darby Metzger with Carol Darby broker co-owners who recently awarded the production honors.

Carol Darby said, “Although varied real estate markets had been adversely affected throughout the country, we were poised to achieve or exceed expectations for our 2013 buyers and sellers. We offer for your review our publication Real Estate Results In Writing, our report of nearly 800 reviews from our buyers and sellers. We are proud of this accomplishment and plan to share it with hundreds of buyers and sellers this year.

If you are considering the sale of a home and want to know the facts of the 2014 real estate market, including current pricing, you should contact one of the Leadership Circle achievers at our firm and request a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) and no cost or obligation to determine its true market value as well as the market forecast. Due to continuing market changes, any of our professionals will be pleased to provide a current market price analysis of your home at no cost or obligation.

In conducting a CMA, our ERA Justin Realty Leadership Circle achievers have access to a wide array of information, such as databases containing recent listing and selling prices of similar homes in the neighborhood. The resulting analysis can help a homeowner understand the current market and will provide a realistic figure of the home’s fair market value. If a home is then put on the market, we can use the CMA results 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 homes in the area have sold.”

Jennifer Darby Metzger added, “Truly, there is a difference in real estate companies, and our focus to detail 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.”

Consumers can reach the ERA Justin Realty Leadership Circle achievers 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.

accessibility features • accessible • bergen county • ERA Justin Realty • Meadowlands • Ron Darby • Rutherford real estate • February 18, 2014

ERA Justin Realty: How Accessibility Features Can Serve Homeowners of All Ages and Abilities

by Jennifer Darby Metzger

As members of the baby boom generation reach retirement age, many focus on aging in place within their homes. ERA Justin Realty, marketing new listings each week can review features which may be important to those reaching retirement.

ERA Justin Realty: How Accessibility Features Can Serve Homeowners of All Ages and Abilities

We all need a helping hand from time to time, but prefer to remain as independent as possible. Accessible features in a home are a way of lending ourselves a hand, and staying in our own house for much longer than we otherwise might.

“As more members of the baby boom generation – which comprises the largest segment of America’s population – reach retirement age, many of them show a preference for “aging in place” in their own homes rather than moving to traditional retirement communities and facilities. This trend has created more interest than ever in the designing and retrofitting of homes for maximum ease of use. Heightened awareness of the needs of disabled people of all ages, and increased legislative attention to their rights, including the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), have also helped drive a trend which can benefit all homebuyers,” stated ERA Justin Realty Broker, Ron Darby.

What has come to be called “Universal Design” is a set of standards for making every house a welcoming home for inhabitants of all ability levels. These include placing light switches and thermostats low enough, and electrical outlets high enough, for anyone to reach; outfitting hallways with railings and showers with grab-bars and stools; replacing doorknobs with levers; offering ramps as well as stairs, and doorways that can accommodate wheelchairs; and minimizing falling risks through secure, low-pile carpeting. Though there was a time when accessibility was considered an obstacle to resale value and desirability, attitudes – and demographics – have changed, and Universal Design is now considered a resale advantage. This potential extra salability can be achieved through minimal effort and expense. For instance, in many cases a room can be made wheelchair-accessible simply by changing the direction of a swinging door.

Darby continued, “The simplicity of such measures – and their popularity with potential homebuyers – makes it equally desirable to build a new home with these considerations in mind, or to retrofit an existing home with them. No one has to feel they’ve turned their home into a medical facility –you can avoid this with some smart and simple methods that enhance convenience and are common sense for all homeowners, while maintaining the more intangible comforts of home, like independence and familiar communities. In addition to the convenience offered by making these types of upgrades to a home, there are government loan programs that can help subsidize accessibility modifications. Talk to one of our real estate professionals about accessible-home options in any area where you may be interested in buying; he or she can also find out about financing opportunities and other ways to keep your path to satisfying and secure home ownership a clear one.”

ERA Justin Realty, a leading area Realtor serving Bergen, Passaic, Hudson and Essex Counties since 1950 is part of the ERA national and global real estate network which was a recipient of the J.D. Power and Associates Award for ‘Highest Overall Satisfaction For First Time Home Sellers Among National Full Service Real Estate Firms.’

Darby concluded, “To learn more about ERA Justin Realty, our staff, our sales professionals and our award-recognized programs and services we provide, call our ERA Justin Realty full service real estate agents who can be reached at either of our two Rutherford offices at 118 Jackson Avenue and 57 Park Avenue. By phone (201) 939-7500, (201) 438-0588 or (201) 438-SOLD. Also view 1000’s of homes at our websites, ERAJustin.com and ERAJustinRealty.com.”

Darby Metzger • ERA Justin Realty • Jennifer Darby Metzger • Meadowlands • Northern New Jersey • real estate • Realogy • RealSource • REALTOR of Year • January 20, 2014

ERA Justin Realty’s Jennifer Darby Metzger appointed as Director at RealSource Association of Realtors

by Jennifer Darby Metzger

The RealSource Association of Realtors recently celebrated and inducted members to their 2014 Board of Directors. Jennifer Darby Metzger of ERA Justin Realty, standing fifth from left, with Directors and officers from other leading offices including Re/Max Realtors, Coldwell Banker, Pristine Homes and Estates, Centennial Real Estate, Terrie O’Connor Realtors, Mary Davis Real Estate, Gilsenan & Company, Prominent Properties Sotheby’s and Weichert Realtors.

ERA Justin Realty’s Jennifer Darby Metzger

appointed as Director at RealSource Association of Realtors

RealSource Association of Realtors is the professional association serving more than 3,000 Realtor Members throughout northeastern New Jersey (Bergen, Passaic, Hudson Counties). Their primary mission is to provide members access to professional services, extended education/training courses, tools and resources that can help them enhance their careers as Realtors. Additionally, to provide members with the education and resources that will enable them to conduct business ethically and professionally, to be a leading advocate of the real estate industry and to protect private property rights.

RealSource recently inducted Jennifer Darby Metzger as a Director for the association, knowing her achievements and business accomplishments. She will aid in enhancing services to its members as well as participate in their strategic planning for their members. For the last 18 years Jennifer has focused on Realtor activities and responsibilities including managing her real estate office and serving on numerous leadership task forces. She was also recently honored as the RealSource Association, Realtor of the year and serves as the committee chair for the Young Professional Network.

Darby Metzger is also a New Jersey licensed instructor for new agent licensing. Her ERA real estate public speaking topics at conferences and meetings include building a substantial office, establishing strong client communication, creating smooth transactions, building ethically driven best business practices and trust, all needed for strong success.

The RealSource Board of Directors encompasses Darby Metzger of ERA Justin Realty and Directors of other leading member offices from Re/Max Realtors, Coldwell Banker, Pristine Homes and Estates, Centennial Real Estate, Terrie O’Connor Realtors, Mary Davis Real Estate, Gilsenan & Company, Prominent Properties Sotheby’s and Weichert Realtors.

Darby Metzger and the entire ERA Justin Realty agent team are fiercely proud of their real estate accomplishments. Jennifer and the ownership team operate a modern real estate company with cutting edge technology in the real estate industry. She and her team 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 • ERA Justin • ERA Justin Realty • historic home • home improvement • home repair • Jennifer Darby Metzger • October 31, 2013

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

by Jennifer Darby Metzger

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.

buy a house • ERA • ERA Justin Realty • homes for sale • house for sale • houses for sale • REALTOR • Ron Darby • October 24, 2013

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

by Jennifer Darby Metzger

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.

bergen county • Jennifer Darby Metzger • real estate • Realogy • RealSource • REALTOR • REALTOR of Year • realty • Ron Darby • Rutherford • October 6, 2013

ERA Justin Realty’s Jennifer Darby Metzger cited by RealSource Association as 2013 Realtor Of The Year

by Jennifer Darby Metzger

RealSource Association of Realtors President Edward Thor presented ERA Justin Realtor Broker Jennifer Darby Metzger to its membership as the 2013 Realtor Of The Year. A Realtor professional for 20 years, Jennifer was selected for her outstanding participation within the real estate industry. Left to right: June Incorvaia, John Boguszewski, Michelle Korosy, Grace Tirrito, Jennifer Darby Metzger, Carol D. Calamari, Fara Espandi, Ilene Harpuder, Julia Dagistanli, Allyson Kubs, Cathy Vick.

ERA Justin Realty’s Jennifer Darby Metzger cited by

RealSource Association as 2013 Realtor Of The Year

Overwhelming congratulations were evident as a surprised Jennifer Darby Metzger of ERA Justin Realty was cited by President Edward Thor as the RealSource Association of Realtors 2013 Realtor Of The Year. She was escorted to the podium for her award, singly selected from the association’s 3,500 membership. The honors took place at the association’s 2013 meeting attended by more than 400 Realtors. RealSource Association of Realtors® is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to serving the professional needs of more than 3,500 Realtor® Members. RealSource is also a member of the National Association of Realtors (NAR) the largest trade association in America.

The RealSource Association of Realtors committee selected Jennifer Darby Metzger for her achievements and business accomplishments. For the last 20 years Jennifer has focused on Realtor and Broker responsibilities including business forums, seminars and International Business Conventions. With a full schedule of running her business and managing the office, she also participates in many events as a speaker, partly because of her involvement and knowledge as a licensed New Jersey Real Estate Instructor. Her teachings on topics of building a substantial office, establishing strong client communication, creating smooth transactions, building ethically driven best business practices and trust have always been popular topics in her speaking engagements.

Jennifer has also achieved the Gold NJAR Circle of Excellence Award 2005, Silver NJAR Circle of Excellence Award 1999, 2002, 2006, 2007 as well as receiving the New Jersey Association of Realtors Lifetime Membership in the Distinguished Sales Club for achieving ten or more years in the Million Dollar/Circle of Excellence Clubs. She also completed her CRS, SFR & National Trust for Historic Preservation designations. She had been selected and featured as a national Thirty Under Thirty recipient in a major article in Realtor magazine.

She was invited to be a charter member of the ERA Young Leaders Network, a group of successful second generation real estate brokers nationwide. One recent task that the YLN network focused on was the Tough Mudder competition held in Florida this spring. This event helped raise funds for the Wounded Warriors Project and the ERA Mudders were very successful is raising funds for the cause.

During her real estate career she has worked diligently for charitable efforts, including being the ERA Muscular Dystrophy Co-Chairperson for New Jersey in fundraising for their kids summer camp programs. She has also appeared on the MDA Labor Day Telethon to present annual fundraising checks. Collectively, Jennifer with her team have raised nearly $200,000.00 throughout the years. She is co-founder of ERA Fresh, a community service created where New Jersey farmers grow and supply freshly picked organic vegetables available to area families. The Rutherford Newcomers & Neighbors Club, also founded by Jennifer, brings information to new area residents.

Jennifer participates with her office teammates in events for the American Cancer Society. There are also silent good Samaritan deeds including her assistance in the ERA Starfish Project, where their motto is “It made a difference to that one…” . She’s a member of the Meadowlands Moms Club, a group of moms with infants and young children who meet monthly and share common needs, goals and issues. To sum up what everyone thinks about Jennifer, one of many dozens of letters she received says it all, “I have known Jennifer both personally and professionally for over ten years. Jennifer is one of the most professional and sincere people I know. Jennifer’s dedication and compassion for her job has always set her aside from her competition and that has helped her succeed to the position she is in today. I would highly recommend Jennifer for any of your real estate needs.”

If you are interested in working on Jennifer’s team, she can be reached at either of her two Rutherford offices at 118 Jackson Avenue and 57 Park Avenue, by office phone (201) 939-7500 or visit www.northjerseyrealestatecareers.com.

blog • buy a house • cost efficient home • ERA Justin Realty • first time buyer • Meadowlands • Michelle Korosy • Realogy • REALTOR • realty • Ron Darby • September 27, 2013

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

by Jennifer Darby Metzger

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.

ERA • ERA Justin • ERA Justin Realty • Jennifer Darby Metzger • Ron Darby • training • July 22, 2013

For ERA Justin Realtors School is Never Out

by Jennifer Darby Metzger

ERA Justin Realty broker co-owner Jennifer Darby Metzger serving buyers and sellers for 21 years explains the benefits of real estate education. Also a New Jersey licensed real estate instructor she explains, for Realtors school is never out.

For ERA Justin Realtors School is Never Out

For real estate professionals at ERA Justin Realty, the season of learning is 365 days long and a continuing cycle of professional education. Not only meeting the New Jersey Real Estate Commission continuing education requirements for licensing renewal but for attending seminars that benefit their buyers and sellers. Education and seminars have made them their Realtor of choice since 1950 in Bergen, Passaic Hudson and Essex Counties.

Jennifer Darby Metzger, ERA Justin broker co-owner and New Jersey licensed real estate licensing instructor said, “The business of being a Realtor has become significantly more complex. Innovation in technology and the knowledge required to apply it effectively to our profession continues to proceed at a dizzying pace. Our clients use technology to communicate with us in ways that few could have imagined just a few short years ago, and they expect us to be every bit as comfortable with using technology as they are. As cell phones have replaced office phones and electronic organizers replaced appointment books, the power of the Internet offers global marketing presence to every Realtor at our firm.

The regulatory environment in which the real estate industry operates has become more complicated as well. Legal protections for consumers, a host of financing options and a myriad of state and local regulations place demands on our attention so we are prepared to best serve the interests of our clients. Therefore, the knowledge base that each one of us must possess grows daily. This all serves to make our firm a real estate market leader.

I’m not suggesting for a moment that sales professionals should feel nostalgia for simpler times. In truth, successful Realtors have always invested considerable effort to achieve success. If a sales associate’s job simply consisted of putting up a sign, running an ad and waiting for the phone to ring, our profession would have been phased out of existence long ago. It is precisely the considerable knowledge required to help clients reach their real estate goals that instill value in what we do in our industry.

The intelligent use of technology has always been a core principle at ERA Justin Realty, particularly when it comes to education. In addition to classroom settings we attend, additional education is held in via Internet webinar classes.

There is another important difference between our Realtors and eager students, a difference that is challenging and invigorating. Unlike students, Realtors don’t have to wait until the end of the semester to find out how they are doing. The results are visible in a client’s happiness when they find a home that meets their needs both financially and emotionally, which lets us know how we are doing every day.”

Metzger concluded, “We are proud to offer this information, one of a series for homeowners. We offer continuing articles as an added measure to make our phrase ‘There is a difference in real estate companies,’ more than just a phrase, but a reality. Because of our daily efforts, we’ve received the prestigious ERA world-wide ‘Commitment to Excellence Award.’ For these reasons ERA Justin Realty should be your buying and selling Realtor of choice.”

The staff of ERA Justin Realty Realtor sales associates 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.

blog • buy a house • ERA • ERA Justin • ERA Justin Realty • first time buyer • Realogy • REALTOR • renters to buyers • Ron Darby • Rutherford • June 28, 2013

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

by Jennifer Darby Metzger

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.