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GUIDE TO BUYING, SELLING & RENTING

LUXURY HOME BUILDERS

 Contemporary

 Sustainable

 Country

 Traditional

 New Construction

 Transitional

 Renovations

201 818 3909

jschellhase@hobbsinc.com

hobbsinc.com

ALLENDALE 75 W. Allendale Avenue Allendale, NJ 07401 201-786-9055 TOCR GATEWAY 464 Boulevard Hasbrouck Heights, NJ 07604 201-288-0004 KINNELON 1483 NJ Rt 23 South Kinnelon, NJ 07405 973-838-0100 RAMSEY 300G Lake Street Ramsey, NJ 07446 201-934-0600

ABOUT US

SELLING YOUR HOME

GUIDE TO BUYING

ALL ABOUT RENTING

FINANCIAL ASPECTS

LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS

(Second Edition)

RIDGEWOOD 76 W. Ridgewood Avenue Ridgewood, NJ 07450 201-445-4554 SADDLE RIVER 75 E. Allendale Road Saddle River, NJ 07458 201-934-4900 WYCKOFF 395 Franklin Avenue Wyckoff, NJ 07481 201-891-0100

WWW.TOCR.COM

ABOUT

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Terrie O’Connor Realtors provides exceptional marketing and technology for its clients and its agents. Understanding that photography is critical to the sale of a home, each home receives high-quality professional photography, floor plans, Zillow 3D Tours, and drone photography. The majority of buyers are shopping for their next home online, so our social media marketing and internet presence is top-notch. Our clients deserve exceptional service, and our highly trained sales professionals work tirelessly from prelisting to CLOSED, from FOR SALE to SOLD.

AB O UT TE RRIE O’ C ON NOR RE ALTOR S ®

Terrie O’Connor Realtors is a fullservice real estate brokerage, specializing in marketing, selling, and leasing residential homes, condos/ co-ops, townhomes, land, multi-family units, and investment properties. Terrie O’Connor Realtors Commercial Division provides strategic marketing, sales, and leasing support to its commercial clients (retail, office, and industrial).

Terrie O’Connor Realtors is a proud member of Leading Real Estate Companies of the World®, an invitation-only network of leading independent real estate companies around the world and their luxury property division, Luxury Portfolio. Through Leading RE, Terrie O’Connor Realtors can provide both local and global real estate services. Visit www.tocr.com for more information about Terrie O’Connor Realtors, the services we provide, and the people that make us who we are.

#WeAreTOCR

ABOUT TERRIE O’CONNOR Terrie O’Connor was married to Thomas O’Connor for 51 years. They proudly raised four children and have been blessed with 11 grandchildren. •

Matthew “Matt” O’Connor is raising three young boys: Raleigh, James, and Robert.

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Katy O’Connor Smiechowski is married to Greg Smiechowski. Together they have four children: Maddie and Grace are both college graduates, while Jack and Danny are enjoying university life and collegiate sports at Columbia and Fordham, respectively. The Smiechowski family also includes a husky mix, Bailey.

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Joseph “Joe” O’Connor and his significant other, Katie Cavanaugh, share young children, Harper Rose and William.

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DeNelle “Nellie” O’Connor (not active in the business) and her husband, Samer Khattab, are raising two young daughters, Callie and Gabriella.

HOBBIES, INTERESTS, ETC.:

Terrie is originally from New Orleans, Louisiana, but has lived around the world... from Malta to Hawaii and London. She loves to entertain, often serving her favorite Louisiana dishes: oysters, fried chicken, etouffee, red beans and rice, and a spicy jambalaya. Terrie enjoys spending time with her family (especially her 11 grandchildren) and friends, her book clubs... and she’s learning to play the guitar. Terrie and her family enjoy weekends at their historic Ocean Grove Victorian, where her musical brood enjoys evenings filled with impromptu jam sessions and singing. With three active boys, Matthew enjoys coaching youth sports. An avid musician, Matt performs with multiple Billy Joel and Pink Floyd cover bands throughout New Jersey and NYC. With four accomplished athletes, Katy can often be found cheering on her children in track, soccer, football, baseball, and more! Katy has served on the Board of Education for the Upper Saddle River Schools and has volunteered with the Northern Highlands Home and School Association and as a trustee for the Northern Highlands Sports Association. Active in community theater, Joe performs with the Bergen County Players in Oradell and the Leonia Guild Players. In his spare time, Joe enjoys golfing, the Bergen County Dart League, softball, and going to the beach with his family. Joe recently joined the Hillsdale Volunteer Fire Department.

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Terrie has been licensed for 45 years. Having moved many times, real estate was a natural career choice. As the daughter and wife of U.S. Naval Officers, Terrie has lived around the world, so naturally Terrie began helping corporate transferees, as well as marketing new construction and residential properties. She excelled in both sales and management. Terrie launched her own company in 1991... and Terrie O’Connor Realtors is celebrating 35 years this year! When asked by her father and her husband why she wanted to start her own company, she replied, “I want to wake up every morning and be excited about the people I work with.” Terrie O’Connor founded Terrie O’Connor Realtors in 1991, after a 10-year career in real estate sales, marketing, and management. As both the daughter and wife of U.S. Naval officers, Terrie lived in diverse locations, including Malta and Hawaii. She attended the University of Maryland in London, working for the Commander-inChief U.S. Naval Forces in Europe, which laid the groundwork for her real estate career. As a salesperson, Terrie excelled in the New Jersey Association of Realtors Million Dollar Sales Club, working with corporate transferees and marketing properties and new construction. She managed Murphy Realty Better Homes and Gardens from 1984 until 1990, where her office was highly productive, and she also led management workshops and developed new divisions.

AB O UT TE RRIE O’ C ON NOR RE ALTOR S ®

WORK BACKGROUND

In 1991, Terrie launched her company, which has grown into a leading brokerage with seven locations, 400 sales associates, and 40 employees. Terrie O’Connor Realtors offers comprehensive services and dominates market share in multiple areas. It is a member of prominent real estate networks and is licensed in both New York and New Jersey. Terrie serves as a director on the Commerce and Industry Association of New Jersey Board and has held several other leadership roles in various real estate and community organizations. She has received numerous awards, including the Smart CEO Brava Award, and was named Realtor of the Year by Greater Bergen Realtors. Terrie is also deeply involved in community service, participating in boards like the Holy Name Medical Center Foundation and initiatives such as Habitat for Humanity. Her company’s nonprofit arm, “The Grace Foundation,” supports various causes. Terrie, a long-time resident of Bergen County, has raised her four children in Upper Saddle River, with three of them working for her company. She currently resides in Saddle River.

EXECUTIVE TEAM TERRIE O’CONNOR Broker Owner / CEO

Licensed for 45 years, Terrie O’Connor founded her company in 1991 following a successful career in real estate sales, marketing, and management. Terrie has worked extensively with transferees as well as marketing residential properties, land sales, and new construction. Her dual exposure from both the development and marketing sides of a property has given her a broad perspective on real estate. When asked why she wanted to start her own brokerage, Terrie replied, “I want to work with people I truly enjoy each day.” True to her word, Terrie O’Connor Realtors now boasts over 400 agents and 40 full-time staff among seven office locations, including Allendale, Hasbrouck Heights, Kinnelon, Ramsey, Ridgewood, Saddle River, and Wyckoff. The company takes pride in providing hallmark service to both residential and commercial clients throughout New Jersey and southern New York counties. Terrie loves real estate and has no plans to stop any time soon. She is in the office each day, working with her executive team to strategize the company’s growth and answering calls from her agents. Outside of the office, Terrie serves as a Board Member with the Holy Name Medical Center Foundation, the Council for Hospice at Villa Marie Claire, and Commerce and Industry of New Jersey. Terrie was a Trustee for Realtor Cares of Greater Bergen Realtors. She was the first woman to serve as President and Chairperson of the Builders Association of Northern New Jersey and is a former steering committee member of Habitat for Humanity’s “Women Raise the Roof,” which built several homes in Paterson.

SARAH M. DRENNAN

President, Broker Associate

As President for the Terrie O’Connor Real Estate companies, Sarah Drennan oversees operations and drives growth and innovation for all seven branch offices. A licensed Real Estate Broker, she successfully managed the Allendale office, providing coaching, training, and support to generate business growth for more than 50 sales professionals. A proven leader, Sarah began her career as International Resource Manager at one of the world’s largest public relations firms. She later became Vice President of Operations and a founding partner of the first public relations industry trade association before entering a very successful career in real estate sales. Her vast experience in public relations, marketing, sales, and customer service, combined with her passion for real estate management, makes her an invaluable asset to the company, to its more than 400 sales associates, and to its clients. Sarah has personally moved more than 20 times throughout the United States and internationally. Having bought and sold multiple homes at a profit, managed every aspect of her moves across the country and around the world, and navigated the corporate relocation process, Sarah has gained a unique perspective on real estate. She can empathize with her clients as they prepare to buy or sell their most important financial asset and relocate their families. Sarah currently serves as a 3-term Councilwoman for the Borough of Upper Saddle River. Additionally, Sarah serves on the Board of Directors for the Grace Foundation of Terrie O’Connor Realtor and volunteers with Upper Saddle River Cares. An active member of her local real estate board, Greater Bergen Realtors, Sarah serves on multiple committees and is a Director for the New Jersey MLS Board. Sarah is a former member of the NJ Realtors Communications Committee. Sarah resides in Upper Saddle River and has three grown children, Isabella and twins Alexandria and Robert. Outside of real estate, Sarah enjoys spending time with her children, walking her dogs, traveling, cooking, decorating (and redecorating), and digging in her garden.

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Chief Operating Officer, Broker Associate

Matthew O’Connor joined Terrie O’Connor Realtors in 2003, overseeing the operations and technology of the brokerage. Through his dedicated leadership, Terrie O’Connor Realtors has become the leading independent real estate brokerage in Northern New Jersey. Matt earned an electrical engineering degree at Auburn University and worked for a New Orleans-based technology company for seven years following graduation. Matt’s background in technology consulting, computer programming, and business management has been a tremendous asset in growing Terrie O’Connor Realtors. “His technology experience, engineering background, and consulting experience have all been a significant force behind the growth and development of our firm,” says Terrie. Matt has been a featured speaker at multiple industry conferences, including RIS Media and Inman, and he currently serves as a member of the Real Trends Innovators Group, the LeadingRE Marketing Technology Advisory Council, and the New Jersey MLS Board of Directors.

JOSEPH O’CONNOR Director of Photography, Broker Associate

Joe celebrates over 20 years with TOCR. Since 2001, he has photographed and marketed more than 15,000 homes in his position as Director of Photography. He is responsible for managing all property photography, virtual tours, and drone photos. “We provide Matterport and Zillow 3D Virtual Tours to provide buyers with an immersive virtual experience,” Joe explains. “It’s important for our photos to stand out. Buyers begin their home search online, and better pictures encourage them to request a showing and make offers.” In addition to his role in overseeing the photography, Joe is a top-producing agent who has received the NJ Realtors® Circle of Excellence® awards multiple times, as well as the TOCR Million Dollar Club recognition.

CATHERINE “KATY” O’CONNOR SMIECHOWSKI Director of Professional Development, Broker Associate

Licensed since the age of 18, Katy has been a part of Terrie O’Connor Realtors since its inception. As Director of Professional Development, Katy leads the multi-faceted educational and training program provided by the company and oversees the Terrie O’Connor Realtors Real Estate School. Katy holds a Masters in Curriculum and Instruction from the Teachers College at Columbia University. Initially, Katy worked as an elementary school teacher in the Upper Saddle River school district during the school year, doing real estate part-time and over the summer. Once she decided to work for TOCR full time, she’s continuously been a top producer, earning the NJ Realtors® Circle of Excellence Award® and being recognized as a Top Agent in Bergen Magazine.

AB O UT TE RRIE O’ C ON NOR RE ALTOR S ®

MATTHEW “MATT” O’CONNOR

Dedicated to her community and its schools, Katy has served on the Board of Education for the Upper Saddle River School District. Katy currently volunteers in various ways at her children’s schools and served as a Trustee for the Northern Highlands Sports Association.

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THE GRACE FOUNDATION The mission of the Grace Foundation is to identify local, legitimate and worthy areas of need for the agents, staff and clients of Terrie O’Connor Realtors to invest in for the ongoing betterment of our local communities and the people who live here, by providing financial, educational and manpower support and encouragement to families and individuals directly and through other local and proper charitable organizations.

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• Allendale Foundation for Educational Excellence (AFEE) • Allendale/Saddle River Rotary • Alzheimer Foundation • American Heart Association • American Red Cross • ASPCA • Autism Speaks • Buddy Foundation (For Downs Syndrome) • Celery Farm Allendale • Center For Food Action • Childhood Cancer Research • Community Meals on Wheels • Covenant House New Jersey • Cupsaw Lake Athletic Foundation Scholarship Fund • De Novo Harrier’s Race for Center for Food Action • Diabetes Foundation • Eastern Christian Children’s Retreat • Fayson Lakes Women’s Club • Genesis School Foundation • Habitat for Humanity • Hackensack University Medical Center • Holy Name Hospital Foundation • Jersey Cares • Josephine’s Garden • Leukemia and Breast Cancer Research • Local Food Pantry • Lupus Foundation • Multiple Myeloma Foundation • Multiple Sclerosis Society Ride • Northern Highlands Athletic Association • Newark Animal Hospital • New Hope Organization • New Jersey Center for Tourette Syndrome • Oasis: A Haven for Women and Children • The Opportunity Center • Our Lady of the Magnificat

• Park Ridge Athletic Club • Park Ridge Music Foundation • Park Ridge Rotary Charity Foundation • Ramapo Bergen Animal Refuge • Ramsey Responds • Ramsey Education Foundation • Ramsey for Stigma Free • Ramsey Strong • Rebuilding Bergen County • Realtor Cares • Ridgewood Historical Society • Ridgewood Women’s Club • Ringwood Ed Foundation • Ringwood Rover Soccer Club • Saddle River Valley Lions Charity • Saddle River Valley Resident’s Club • Soles for Souls • Soroptimist of Passaic Valley

AB O UT TE RRIE O’ C ON NOR RE ALTOR S ®

PARTIAL LIST OF ORGANIZATIONS SUPPORTED BY TERRIE O’CONNOR REALTORS, STAFF AND AGENTS:

• Southern Paws • St. Hubert’s Animal Welfare Center • St. Peter’s Haven Food Pantry • Strengthen Our Sisters • Susan Zabransky Hughes Memorial Run • Table to Table • Tenafly 5K Development Fund • The Tony Robbins Foundation Basket Brigade • Toys for Tots • USR Education Foundation • Upper Saddle River Cares • Upper Saddle River Historical Society • Upper Saddle River Women’s Club • Valley Hospital Auxiliary • Valley Hospital Foundation • Villa Marie Claire Hospice in Saddle River • Vitalant (formerly Community Blood Bank) • West Bergen Mental Healthcare • Women in Transition • Wyckoff Family YMCA

A COMPANY THAT CARES Ever mindful of the plight of so many suffering and at risk in our communities, a situation further compounded by the devastating impact of a global pandemic, Terrie O’Connor Realtors has made a commitment to support the communities where they live and work. Whether collecting Thanksgiving dinners, picking up a hammer with Habitat for Humanity, running an on-site blood drive, or organizing collections of food, toys, coats, and pajamas for children in need, this family company believes in the rewards of giving back. Their eight offices are filled with community warriors, generous spirits actively seeking communities, organizations, and individuals to serve.

PANDEMIC RELIEF: MOBILIZED DURING COVID-19 At the height of the pandemic, when the entire state of New Jersey shut down, the agents of Terrie O’Connor Realtors stepped up to help. A Saddle River Broker Associate organized a group of five volunteers in the Cupsaw Lake community of Ringwood to form Cupsaw Cares, a 501c3 organization dedicated to providing much-needed PPE (gloves, masks, face shields, goggles, hand sanitizer) to their communities and to first responders and hospitals in Bergen, Passaic, and Morris Counties in New Jersey and Rockland County in New York. To date, this group of dedicated citizens has distributed over $150,000 worth of PPE. A Ramsey top producer helped the Dater School PTO launch Ramsey Strong to solicit more than $110,000 in donations. The monies were used to purchase meals from local restaurants to feed frontline healthcare workers. “It was a win-win: we helped local restaurants struggling to survive amid COVID-19 restrictions while feeding nurses and doctors working to save our neighbors, family, and friends.” A top Allendale team, along with the Saddle River/Allendale Rotary, delivered weekly collections of groceries and donated meals to Oasis, A Haven for Women and Children, in Paterson. These are just a few examples of the many individuals who mobilized efforts to lend a hand. Others joined groups of volunteers to sew handmade masks for Valley Hospital Foundation, delivered meals to nurses and doctors pulling overtime at area hospitals, and shopped for their at-risk and elderly neighbors. While 2020 was an exceptional year, community service has always been an integral part of the organization.

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While community service projects are carried out throughout the year, Terrie O’Connor Realtors dedicates the entire month of November to expressing gratitude for the people and communities they serve. Company-wide food drives benefit the Center for Food Action, the Hasbrouck Heights Food Pantry, and the Kinnelon Food Pantry. Staff and sales associates provided much-needed assistance unloading trucks and stocking shelves at St. Peter’s Haven Food Pantry in Clifton. Terrie even hosted a baby shower for Raphael’s Life House in Elizabeth, NJ, an arm of Covenant House that provides a safe haven for pregnant young women facing homelessness through their Mothers and Babies Program. Shower “guests,” including TOCR staff and associates, provided gifts to ensure the moms had everything they needed when they brought their babies home from the hospital, a gesture that surely made an incredible impact on the lives of women who may never have been shown kindness and goodwill.

OUTREACH TO THE HOMELESS: COVENANT HOUSE Celebrating over 35 years in the real estate business, Terrie O’Connor Realtors is dedicated to helping people find their dream home. Recognizing that not everyone is fortunate enough to have a place to call home, Terrie O’Connor and the TOCR Cares Team stepped up to help the kids of “the Cov.” Covenant House helps New Jersey’s youth who have suffered from abuse, abandonment, homelessness, and human trafficking to build a life that is good and meaningful. Serving youth ages 18 to 22, Covenant House helps get their kids off the streets, to residential crisis centers, then to transitional living homes, and on to independent living. Every November since 2017, the TOCR Cares Team has participated in the Covenant House’s Executive Sleep Out, a yearly fundraising initiative where participants sleep outside on the streets of Newark to experience the devastation facing New Jersey’s homeless youth. During the event, participants share in the stories and experiences of Covenant’s residents and meet the organization’s loving staff. Understanding the value of experiencing the Sleep Out together, a team of agents and staff took to cardboard boxes—supplied by Ridgewood Movers—and made their bed outside in the parking lot across from Covenant House in Newark. Terrie O’Connor Realtors and the TOCR Cares Team have raised approximately $250,000 in support of the Covenant House kids since 2017.

AB O UT TE RRIE O’ C ON NOR RE ALTOR S ®

COMPANY EVENTS RAISING MONEY/GOODS FOR CHARITY: CLOSING EACH YEAR IN GRATITUDE

In December, the company “gives back” to those same communities by collecting toys and pajamas for Oasis: A Haven for Women and Children; sponsoring entire families through Upper Saddle River’s Church of the Presentation; collecting new, unwrapped toys for the Marine Corps’ Toys for Tots program and event; and even collecting books to support the “Book for Every Bed” initiative. The company is so proud of the community warriors who give so generously of their time and treasure during the holiday season and throughout the year.

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SELLING YOUR HOME

Once you decide to sell your home, there are questions to think about. Should you go ahead and make repairs to the home or should you offer the new buyer an allowance for repairs? How should you stage your home? What improvements should you make? These are just a few of the questions to consider. We can help walk you through this process.

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SE LL I NG YOUR H OME CHOOSING THE RIGHT REALTOR® It’s important to interview your agent and be comfortable with them. A few good questions to ask might be: How long have they been practicing real estate? What is their marketing approach? What improvements would they suggest before putting the property on the market? Do they have any fees in addition to the commission?

NAVIGATING THE HOME SELLING PROCESS PREPARING THE HOME Preparing your home for the market involves several steps to enhance its appeal to potential buyers and maximize the sale price. Your real estate agent will conduct a thorough marketing assessment of your property and will identify unique features as well as potential challenges. Based on local real estate knowledge and recent sales data, they will offer advice on repairs to known or visible issues, improvements to boost customer appeal, decluttering, and staging.

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MARKETING AND PRICING STRATEGY The first steps in creating a marketing strategy for selling a home involve understanding the property and the local market conditions. We will prepare a comprehensive market analysis to determine the pricing and timing for placing your home on the market. Factors such as location, property characteristics, size, condition, recent improvements, layout, and amenities are all considerations in properly pricing a property. External factors such as economic conditions, mortgage rates, average market time, and local housing inventory also play an important role in the pricing strategy. OFFER REVIEW AND NEGOTIATION Various factors about the property and current market conditions influence the price and terms of an offer on your home. Closing terms, buyer financing, contingencies, and timelines can all affect the strength of an offer from a buyer. Your real estate agent will help you evaluate the terms of offers and assist you in deciding which is the strongest offer for your home. If you’re also in the process of buying another home, we will help manage the complexities of buying and selling a home simultaneously. We will carefully coordinate the process and the timing to minimize potential challenges and help avoid financial burdens.

Selling your home is a complex experience that requires expertise to navigate and the guidance of a trusted advisor. Our job is to ensure you make the best decisions possible and sell your home for the most favorable terms.

SE LL I NG YOUR H OME

It is also essential to gather any necessary documents related to the property to help you accurately market the property and help facilitate the transaction once the home is under contract. Here are some of the documents you should prepare: property tax information, recent inspection reports, disclosures, receipts for home improvements and repairs, any home warranties, and HOA documentation.

From pricing strategies to marketing to contract negotiations and managing all the details, we’ll be by your side every step of the way.

DUE DILIGENCE AND CLOSING Once an offer has been accepted, we will prepare a timeline through the closing date so that you meet the terms of the purchase and sale contract. We will assist with all paperwork, documentation, and disclosure throughout the contract process. The next phase is due diligence, which is a critical time in the process that your agent will guide you through. It begins with the buyer’s-initiated home inspection, which, based on findings, may require further negotiations for repairs or credits. In addition, the buyer may need to secure an appraisal, title search, homeowner’s insurance, and final loan approval—and complete the final walk-through. We will communicate with the buyer’s agent to ensure the various steps are satisfied and work with you to ensure that requests from the buyer are presented with a response that is appropriate for the current market. As the closing date nears, we will work with your attorney to prepare all the necessary paperwork and coordinate the logistics of the closing.

Expert Craftsmanship For Every Corner Of Your Home Or Business Carlos Pimentel Owner

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SE LL I NG YOUR H OME

STAGING YOUR HOME To accomplish this, you need to see your home as a marketable commodity, rather than your personal residence. By removing any clutter and many of your personal items, you can help a buyer envision your home with their things in it. To get inspiration, try visiting some model homes in your area. Builders spend a lot of time and money optimizing the appeal of a home for potential buyers. Your agent is an expert at helping you decide what to put into storage and how to arrange your furniture so that your home photographs well and shows great.

DID YOU KNOW?

Staging can increase the value of your home! ON AVERAGE 32% OF HOMES THAT HAVE BEEN STAGED SEE AN OFFER VALUE INCREASE. WE RECOMMEND STAGING WHENEVER POSSIBLE.

ASK YOUR AGENT!

KITCHEN CLUTTER AND THE JUNK DRAWER The kitchen is generally the heart of every home, so it is best to start there. Look at your countertops. You will want to have those as clean and clear as possible. Yes, you may use the crock pot a couple of times a week and that toaster every morning, but your potential buyers will still see this as clutter. Store the crock pot and any other appliances not used on a daily basis below. Don’t be scared of the closet monster, for it can make you some extra money. Empty your closets out and make three piles: one for selling and/or donating, one for keeping, and one for trash.

TURN YOUR HOME INTO A MODEL HOME When you visit a model home, you will notice that most of the rooms are devoid of specific personalities. Personal photos, collectibles, trophies, souvenirs, and other personal items should be boxed up and put into storage. You are going to have to pack them up eventually when you move into your new home, so why not go ahead and take care of that now? Once you have those items boxed up, don’t just store them in a closet, attic, or the garage. Place them in a storage unit away from where potential buyers can see them. After years of living in your home, it is common to form an emotional bond with items in your home. Excess items tend to collect on shelves, cabinets, in drawers, garages, and attics. You may not realize it, but these items have a negative effect on your potential buyers’ view of your home. Your potential buyers need to be able to see the walls. They need to see where their furniture is going to go. Take a step back and imagine you are the buyer. Ask a good friend to view your home and ask your agent to solicit feedback from viewings to know what you still need to remove. When in doubt, pack it up!

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YOU’RE NOT A FURNITURE STORE When viewing furniture in your rooms, try and think of that room as a hotel room. Just the bare minimums are best. A bedroom should have a bed and dresser and maybe a desk and chair, if space allows. You just need enough items for your daily living needs. If your desk is loaded with paperwork and files, take the time to organize and file your paperwork away. Potential buyers come in all ages and life stages. Just because you have kids and your neighborhood is full of elementaryaged children, don’t assume your new buyers will have kids. What you see as a cute play area, others may see as junk. GARAGE AND STORAGE CLUTTER Once you get everything boxed up, don’t just move it to the garage, basement, attic, or closet. Potential buyers view these areas with just as critical an eye as other areas of your home. You’re going to be moving anyway. Get those items into storage or make some money with a garage sale and get half the work done when it comes time to move out.

Once you have decluttered, you will want to give your home a thorough visual inspection. Small imperfections can lead a potential buyer to question what other issues the home may have. You must disclose any known issues with the home to your buyer, so it is often best to go ahead and address the issues before they can discourage an otherwise interested buyer. Most buyers will use the services of a certified home inspector. You may want to hire your own inspector prior to putting the home on the market to make sure you do not have any surprises that can derail your contract. While a buyer may not choose to rely only on your inspection to learn the condition of your home, you can certainly make the report available for them to help them make a purchase decision.

SE LL I NG YOUR H OME

INSPECT AND REPAIR

HAVE YOUR HOME SHOW-READY WHEN BUYERS COME 9

Turn on all the lights in the home.

Open all of the window blinds and curtains.

Make up your beds and put away dirty clothing.

Clean up the floors and vacuum any carpets.

Turn on some music.

If you have a home theater, put a movie on.

Clean up the kitchen.

Make sure the temperature is comfortable.

Finally... Leave the house, preferably before the buyers arrive.

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SE LL I NG YOUR H OME

CEILINGS AND WALLS Inspect your ceilings and walls for paint stains, scuffs, crayon marks from kids, and spider webs in the corners, and make sure these issues are addressed before showing your home. If you see water stains, including paint or wallpaper that appears to be bubbling or peeling off the wall, take a closer look to determine if you have a water leak that needs to be corrected. WINDOWS Wash any windows that are too dusty or have fingerprint marks on them. Replace any windows that are cracked or broken. Next, it is time to whip out the WD-40. Spray down any windows that do not open and close smoothly. Replace any latches that have broken off or no longer function correctly. DOORS Keep that WD-40 handy and spray any doors that squeak when opening. Wipe down any scuff marks on doors. Make sure sliding glass doors and sliding closet doors move easily in their tracks.

PAINTING Regardless of whether you have an old color scheme or just plain white walls, painting is one of the least expensive (if you do it yourself) and most effective things you can do to increase the WOW factor of your home. FIXTURES Home fixtures such as sink knobs and faucets, door and cabinet knobs, and light switches should be cleaned so they appear as new. Replace any items that appear too worn or dated. FLOORING Carpeting is often an item that new buyers replace when they buy an existing home. Since you are not buying the carpet for your enjoyment, there is really no need to invest in replacing it unless it appears too old, dated, or worn out. However, it is worth hiring a carpet cleaning service to give your carpet a fresh look. FURNITURE Make sure your rooms are not packed with furniture. Store any excess furniture. That which remains should be clean and undamaged. UNPLEASANT ODORS It may not be noticeable to you as you are used to it, but pet smells and smoking inside create odors that are immediately noticeable to potential buyers when they walk in the door. Consider buying plugin odor eliminator products commonly found at your local grocery store and placing them in various rooms throughout your home.

EIGHT AFFORDABLE WAYS TO BOOST A HOME’S CURB APPEAL Your home’s curb appeal could make or break the number of showings you have. In the same way, curb appeal can attract potential buyers through your door, a less-thanspectacular home front can also be a detractor. From upgrading landscaping to refreshing paint, consider these eight affordable ways to boost your home’s curb appeal and entice buyers to add your home to their “must see” list:

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1. UPDATE OUTDOOR LIGHTING An easy way to instantly add interest and depth to an outdoor space is to replace dated lighting fixtures with new ones. There are many lighting options on the market in a wide range of colors and styles. Most choices are quite affordable, and you will be amazed at what a few dollars can do in upgrading the overall look of your outdoor space. 2. KEEP IT MOWED A freshly mowed lawn is essential to boosting your curb appeal when trying to sell your home. Mowing your lawn on a weekly or 10-day basis will allow it to grow enough between mows so that you don’t damage the grass. Make sure to also allow time for edging and clear away any clippings before your house is shown to potential buyers. Keeping your lawn in top condition is always a good idea to boost curb appeal. 3. FIX THE SMALL THINGS Do a thorough look through your front porch to find any small issues that have gone unnoticed for years. Fix small things like a slit in the window screen, tightening the mailbox, or replacing a burned-out lightbulb. Attending to these small things can add up when it comes to receiving an offer for your home. 4. ADD SOME FLOWERS Pick up a few beautiful sets of flowers from the garden center and plant them in a pot next to the front door. Colorful flowers will add instant beauty to the space and welcome guests into your home. Consider adding a few different colors to help create an interesting and inviting atmosphere.

6. TOUCH UP PAINT You most likely have a can of leftover paint in the garage or basement. Use this to touch up areas of your house that could use a fresh coat of paint. Consider items like the mailbox, house numbers, or plant pots that have seen a few years since their last painting. If your front door needs some help, consider painting it to add a fresh look to your home.

SE LL I NG YOUR H OME

5. TRIM UP SHRUBS Get out your shears and trim up bushes and plants that have overgrown their spaces. All you need is a little bit of elbow grease to freshen up your landscaping. Trim bushes into eye-pleasing shapes with rounded edges and give every plant in your garden enough room to shine while still being a part of the overall landscaping picture.

7. POWER WASH IT You will be amazed by the amount of dirt a good power washing can lift from your home. Renting a power washer for a day is also a good and affordable way to add curb appeal to your home. Another affordable option is to consider borrowing one from a friend to save on expenses. Pay close attention to the outside of your home as well as gutters, patios, walkways, and patio furniture. 8. ADD SOME MULCH Picking up a few bags of mulch at a garden center is a great way to add instant curb appeal to your landscaping. Mulch not only looks great, but it also provides essential help to plants by helping to retain water as well as keeping weeds at bay. Simply add a few inches of mulch around trees and garden beds to instantly raise the overall look of your home.

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As your local agent, I understand that you need home insurance that works within your budget. I’ll help you make sense of your insurance, find the savings you deserve and protect what matters most. As your local agent, I understand that you need home As your local agent, understand that you need home Let’s chat. Give Ime a callyour today. insurance that works within budget. I’ll help you make insurance that worksI understand within your budget. I’ll helphome you make As your that you sense oflocal your agent, insurance, find the savings youneed deserve and protect sense of your insurance, find the savings you deserve protect insurance that works within your budget. I’ll help youand make what matters most. As your local agent, I understand that you need home what matters most. Andrea find Debenedetto sense of your insurance, the savings you deserve and protect insurance works within your budget. I’ll help you make Let’s chat.that Give me a call today. 201-327-5700 what most. Let’s chat. Give me a callfind today. sensematters of your insurance, the savings you deserve and protect 55 E Main St what most. Let’s matters chat. Give me a call today.

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SE LL I NG YOUR H OME

PRICING YOUR PROPERTY Once you have decided to sell your home, you will probably have a ballpark idea of what you think your home is worth. This number is usually based on what you paid for it, the costs of upgrades you have added, and what the neighbors’ houses sold for. While your estimated number could be either right on the mark or wildly off base, your real estate agent will have the proper tools to help you determine a realistic asking price.

WHY IS THE ESTIMATE SO LOW? Often, the price you have in mind is going to be higher than what your home could realistically sell for. Your real estate agent will prepare a CMA (Comparable Market Analysis) to determine the value of your home as compared to the other homes in your area. Consideration is given to factors such as the size of your home and upgrades you have made. However, depending on what the upgrades are, they may not add much to the value of your home. A realistic real estate agent will price your home so that it will sell in the market that exists in your area today. WHY IS THE ESTIMATE SO HIGH? If you meet with three different real estate agents, you will most likely receive three different estimates on the value of your home. The difference can vary greatly, even though each agent will have created a CMA for you. Some agents will tell you what you want to hear regardless of what the realities of the market are. They may pull comparable sold homes from out of your area and inflate the value of your upgrades just to obtain your listing. Many sellers are tempted to go with the agent who comes in with the highest listing price. This can often be a mistake, as your home will sit on the market and get few showings and fewer, if any, offers. After all, the buyer’s real estate agent is going to know the realities of your market and will advise their clients on which homes to view and what the comparable home sales are in your area. If your home sits on the market too long, potential buyers may assume you are getting desperate, and you will start to receive low-ball offers. By overpricing initially, you could end up settling on an offer of a lower price than you would have received if you had priced your home correctly the first time.

WHICH IS FOR ME? While at first glance it may appear that your real estate agent is taking a big chunk of your sales price, this is actually not the case. The commission you pay is actually split between your real estate brokerage and the buyer’s real estate brokerage. COMMISSIONS AND CLOSING The commission amount a seller pays is normally a percentage portion of the sales price. The percentage rate generally depends on the level of service you want and expect from your real estate agent. FULL-SERVICE AGENT A full-service agent actively markets your property not only to other real estate agents but also to prospective buyers via MLS listings, website listings, and traditional media advertising. They may market your home via open houses, being at your home when other agents bring potential buyers over to view your home, and upgraded selling features such as virtual tours. A dedicated agent will work with you to stage your home so it is shown in the best possible light.

CLOSING ON YOUR HOUSE • Confirm the final read on all utilities such as water, gas, and electric. •

Confirm all contingencies have been satisfied and are in writing by all parties.

•

Confirm the buyer has a clear-toclose from the lender and their funds have been wired to the title company.

•

Review any and all closing documents provided by the title company.

•

Review any and all documents regarding payouts, such as mortgages, property taxes, transfer taxes, commissions, escrows, etc.

•

Go to the title company and sign all the closing documents.

•

Get your check and go to your bank and deposit it the same day.

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ACCEPTING THE OFFER Have your REALTOR® write down what is expected of the seller after accepting an offer. The following is a possible list of items that are important, such as dates, contingencies, etc. •

What is the final due date for the buyer to have provided evidence of the mortgage application?

•

What is the final due date for the buyer’s initial deposit to be placed in escrow?

•

What is the final due date for any and all home inspections?

•

What is the final due date for both the seller’s and buyer’s attorney to review any and all documents pertaining to the sale of the property?

•

What is the final due date for the seller to provide any and all documents to the buyer and/or the buyer’s agent?

•

What is the final due date for the buyer’s clear to close from their lender?

•

What is the final due date for the final walk-through with the buyer?

•

What is the final due date to close?

SE LL I NG YOUR H OME OUR TOP FIVE HOME SELLING TIPS 1. BATHROOMS AND KITCHEN Make sure that your bathrooms and en-suites all feel clean and “spa-like,” and make sure that you keep them smelling fresh. In the kitchen, try to clean away any food or unnecessary cookware to really show off your countertops and cabinetry. Create a homely feeling by baking fresh bread or cakes and brewing freshly ground coffee; this can be your secret weapon in securing a sale, as smells tend to help people remember a property. 2. ATTIC OR LOFT SPACES Clean out any clutter and donate or sell all of the items you no longer need, unless they’re antiques or collectibles. You probably put the items in the attic because you weren’t using them regularly. Try to let go of any junk to show off the storage potential of your property.

3. ALL ROOMS Try to revert all rooms to their original purpose wherever possible. Potential buyers will not necessarily have the same needs or uses for the rooms in your home as you might have. It is always better to appeal to a generic buyer. For example, if the house was originally a five-bedroom property and you’ve converted one room into an easily reverted office or gymnasium, consider doing so. This could potentially boost your chances of securing a sale, while also increasing the appraised value due to the additional bedroom. 4. LIVING ROOM Make the room look more spacious by removing a few pieces of furniture and putting away clutter. Remember that your decor tastes may not match up with your potential buyer. Sometimes, bold artwork choices or ornaments can really turn off a buyer, especially if they can’t envision themselves living there. Try to keep your decor neutral. 5. GARAGE Firstly, remove any lingering old junk and boxes. Try and clean up any dirt or grease spots and, if possible, improve the visual appeal by repainting your garage floor. Make room to assure the potential buyer that they can fit their car in the garage even if you don’t park it there yourself.

GUIDE TO

BUYING

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GUIDE TO B UY I NG

Buying a home can be one of the most exciting experiences of your life. This can be true whether you’ve purchased several homes or you’re preparing to buy for the first time. With the right support system and the help of a trusted professional, you can make the most informed decisions.

NAVIGATING THE HOME BUYING PROCESS PREPARATION Budget Evaluation How much can you comfortably plan to spend? Before diving into the home search, it’s important to evaluate your finances and understand the costs associated with homeownership and what you can spend for a purchase price. In addition to purchase price, property taxes and, in some cases, HOA fees all factor into your monthly expenses. It’s also important to consider upfront costs such as closing costs, appraisal fees, and moving expenses when determining how much you can afford as a down payment. Mortgage Pre-Approval Before embarking on the homebuying journey, it is important to obtain a mortgage pre-approval to ensure you have a clear picture of approximately how much you will be able to offer and borrow from a lender. Later on in the home buying process, home sellers will ask that you provide a mortgage pre-approval before engaging with them in a formal negotiation process. A pre-approval goes beyond a pre-qualification to provide a commitment from a lender to finance your home purchase up to a specific amount. A mortgage pre-approval not only gives you a realistic understanding of your borrowing capacity but also strengthens your offer and allows for a faster closing. If you’re also selling a home, factors such as home equity and your current mortgage balance also need to be taken into consideration.

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They will schedule and accompany you to private showings and provide insights on the pros and cons of properties you have viewed. PURCHASE AGREEMENT Once you’ve identified a property that you’re interested in pursuing, we will prepare a market analysis and help you determine an appropriate offer price and terms for an offer. We will also help you review seller disclosures and consider any concessions that the seller is offering or that you may wish to request. We will then draft a strong offer and advocate for your best interests in negotiations and counteroffers to obtain the best price and contract terms for you.

Skillful negotiation involves an understanding of current local market conditions, in-depth research on pricing and market time for recent comparable properties, and intelligence on sought-after property features. There are many other factors that come into play when presenting an offer, which are contingencies and terms, including the closing date, buyer financing, requested timeframe for inspections, and mortgage contingencies. The buyer’s representative is skilled at delivering an attractive offer on all fronts. The negotiation comes in all forms, from counteroffers on the price to contingencies to issues found during inspection to closing dates. Without the market expertise and negotiating strength of a buyer representative, it is possible to overpay for a property or even lose the opportunity to another buyer.

GUIDE TO B UY I NG

EXPLORATION AND PROPERTY SEARCH Having a clear picture of your budget and down payment amount, we will work with you to understand your home ownership objectives and criteria to begin your home search. Throughout the home search process, we will provide valuable market intelligence and comprehensive local market data to help guide your decision-making process and ensure you are making informed and confident decisions.

If you’re also selling a home, we will help manage the complexities of buying and selling a home simultaneously. We will carefully coordinate the process and the timing to minimize potential challenges and brainstorm creative strategies, such as negotiating short-term leasebacks, to help avoid financial burdens. DUE DILIGENCE AND CLOSING Once a home seller has accepted your offer, we will prepare a timeline through the closing date so that you meet the terms of your purchase contract. We will assist with all paperwork, documentation, and disclosure throughout the contract process.

Understanding your goals, desires, and concerns is essential for skillful negotiation, coupled with strong market knowledge and financial acumen. We work on your behalf, ensuring the best possible price and terms. We also function as an intermediary, facilitating communication with all parties to resolve any issues that may arise along the way.

The next phase is due diligence, which is a critical time in the process that we will guide you through. It begins with the home inspection, which, based on findings, may require further negotiations with the home seller to secure repairs or credits. The appraisal, title search, securing homeowners insurance, satisfying any contingencies, obtaining final loan approval, and completing the final walkthrough will happen during this phase. Your real estate agent will work with you to ensure the various steps are satisfied.

Representation is essential when it comes to negotiating the purchase of real estate—especially when the property will be your future home. Just as the seller’s representative works on their behalf to achieve the maximum sales price for the seller, it’s important that you have representation to advocate for the most advantageous purchase price and terms.

As the closing date nears, your real estate agent will work with your lender and your attorney to prepare all the necessary paperwork and coordinate the logistics of the closing. We will carefully coordinate among all parties involved in the transaction, as attention to detail is imperative leading up to the closing.

THREE TIPS FOR MAKING SMALL SPACES WORK FOR YOUR FAMILY Small spaces aren’t the traditionally sought-after spaces for growing families. But with more millennial parents choosing to live a minimal lifestyle, families are adapting to life in homes with less square footage. Whether your family is choosing to downsize by choice or necessity, follow the tips below for creating a functional space that can support your growing family. CHANNEL YOUR INNER MARIE KONDO It’s time to purge! Take a tip from tiny home enthusiasts who have chosen to live a simpler life—downsizing means committing to decluttering. Re-gift, donate, and sell unwanted items. Eliminate multiples and only keep items that spark joy—and have your kids help. EVERY ITEM HAS A HOME, EVERY SPACE A PURPOSE Being thoughtful about what items stay in your family’s space is just as important as figuring out where to store it. Families without the space for a designated playroom may want to consider where toys will be tucked away. Try rotating toys to save space while helping kids get the most out of playtime. GO VERTICAL Some may say that floor space is the most valued space in a smaller home, but vertical is the way to go! Bookcases, coat racks, and shoe trees are all great options for tiny spaces

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GUIDE TO B UY I NG

SIX DECISIONS TO MAKE BEFORE YOUR HOME SEARCH In the market for a new home but have no idea where to start? There are several decisions you should begin to make before you even start your home search. By asking yourself the right questions, you can quickly pinpoint what you want— and can afford—in your next home. 1. WHAT’S YOUR BUDGET? See how your finances stand up to the 28/36 rule, which lenders use to see what you can afford to pay each month. A financial advisor or your real estate agent can help you crunch the numbers. Going through the mortgage pre-approval process lets you know how much lenders will allow you to borrow—plus it helps you show sellers that you have the funds to back up your offer. 2. WHAT DO YOU NEED IN YOUR NEW HOME? How many bedrooms or bathrooms do you need? What about a large kitchen, a home office, or a playroom for the kids? How many cars need covered parking? It’s critically important to ensure the home you select meets your family and lifestyle needs. 3. DO YOU WANT A CONDO OR SINGLE-FAMILY HOME? Condos come with much less maintenance. You typically won’t be shoveling snow in the winter or replacing the roof, but you’ll likely pay monthly association fees to cover services and repairs in the community. Houses, on the other hand, come with more privacy and freedom to customize. They also come with full responsibility for maintenance.

4. HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT LIVING UNDER COVENANTS? Depending on where you buy, you may have to pay homeowner association (HOA) fees in addition to your mortgage. There are benefits to HOAs, such as maintenance, community centers, and maybe even a pool or gym. But you also could be faced with more restrictive rules about the look of the outside of your home, down to the color of your front door, types of window coverings, and whether you can plant flowers in your yard. 5. WHAT SCHOOL DISTRICT DO YOU WANT TO BE NEAR? Even if you don’t have children in the house, local schools will affect your property value. Prospective homebuyers tend to search with education in mind. Do your research on the schools in the areas in which you’d like to live. 6. SHOULD THE HOME BE MOVE-IN READY? Ask yourself how much elbow grease you’re willing to put into a home—or how much you’ll pay someone else to do the work. Fixer-upper homes can be great after the work is done, but you’ll want to figure out your renovation budget before you start your home search. A 203k home renovation loan might be the right resource for you. If you’re not ready for the extra financial commitment of rehabbing a home, or you can’t or don’t want to wait for remodeling projects to finish, then a home that’s move-in ready might be right for you. After considering all these factors, you’ll be ready to start the home search with a clearer picture of where you’re headed. When that time comes, let an agent guide you all the way there.

8 WAYS

to Maximize Your Landscape with a Minimal Budget Creating a beautiful, functional landscape doesn’t have to mean a massive investment. Some of the most impactful improvements come from thoughtful edits, strategic focus, and making better use of what you already have. With the right approach, you can dramatically elevate your property’s appearance while keeping costs under control.

1. EDGES

2. DELETION

3. COLOR WHERE IT COUNTS

Crisp garden edges instantly

Improve your yard by removing

Maximize your budget by

elevate your landscape by

overgrown or unhealthy plants.

concentrating seasonal color

adding contrast and structure.

Editing your landscape creates

in high-visibility areas like the

Defining the lines between

a cleaner, more cohesive

front entry or patio. Focusing

your lawn and beds makes

space—sometimes, less truly

your plants where they matter

even simple plantings look

is more.

most creates a strong visual impact and boosts curb

professional and intentional.

appeal without the cost of landscaping the entire yard.

4. REPETITION

5. POWER WASHING

6. TARGETED LIGHTING

7. DIG AND DIVIDE

Save money and improve

Revitalize your landscape by

Targeted landscape lighting

Boost your garden by dividing

your design by mass-planting

power washing dirty patios,

transforms your property

perennials and ornamental

fewer varieties. Repeating

walkways, and decks before

without a full system. Focus

grasses. Simply dig them up,

the same plants throughout

replacing them. This low-cost

on highlighting a few key

split them, and replant the

your yard creates a unified,

deep clean removes stains and

features—like a specimen tree,

pieces to fill empty spots and

intentional look that feels more

algae, restoring original colors

architectural details, or a main

create a more established

professional than a scattered

and making your hardscape

path—for maximum nighttime

landscape at no extra cost.

collection of different species.

feel brand new.

impact.

8. GET A PLAN Hiring a landscape designer can save money long-term by preventing costly mistakes. A professional plan helps you prioritize and phase projects, ensuring every dollar spent contributes to a cohesive, wellexecuted yard.

LANDSCAPE EXPERTISE FROM BLYTHE YOST, OWNER OF ROCKFIELD LANDSCAPE Blythe Yost is a Cornell-educated landscape architect and founder of Yost Design and Rockfield Landscape. Known for a holistic approach, she integrates design, construction, and maintenance to create evolving, highend residential landscapes. Recognized on Forbes’ Next 1000 list, Yost treats gardens as living systems designed to mature and improve over time.

GUIDE TO B UY I NG FINDING YOUR DREAM HOME When you find a home you like online, we suggest you mark it as a favorite. This helps you to keep track of the homes you like. It also helps us to take your selections and come up with ideas of homes that maybe you had not considered. Many homes are occupied and require an appointment to see them. If possible, give your agent the list of homes you would like to see a day ahead of time. We find that selecting your best five or ten properties to see works out best. Generally, seeing more than about eight homes in one session can be confusing to keep track of. If you have more to see, we can schedule it for the following day.

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GUIDE TO B UY I NG

NEGOTIATING AN OFFER So you have found the perfect home. What should you offer? Often the answer is not clear-cut. Every house is unique, and every combination of buyer and seller is unique. This is definitely not an area where one can say, Offer 10% off the asking price. It’s just a lot more complicated than that. Many factors should be considered going into your initial offer. Some factors you will know, like what the comparable properties have sold for. Some you will not know, like what the seller’s bottom line is. The most important factor is the obvious market price of the house. The seller can ask for more or less than the market. Depending on the seller’s situation, market price may not be the most important factor. While the seller’s objective is to get the most for their home, a decision to accept, counter, or reject your offer may be affected by other issues unrelated to a market price, such as what they owe on the home or how fast you can settle. Knowing this information might just translate into a better deal for you. DEVELOP A STRATEGY A negotiating strategy needs to be developed. If your first offer is accepted by the seller, you may second-guess yourself and wonder, “Should I have offered less?” The object is to engage the seller and begin a negotiation. PUBLIC RECORDS County public records are usually available online and can show other things that might work to your benefit. Many county clerks maintain a free access site for basic information about people and the property that you can search for.

RESPECT THE SELLER Don’t go in with a take-it-or-leave-it attitude. Everyone needs to feel like they got something in the negotiation. Your initial offer should be part of an overall strategy. Going in too low may be counterproductive. An owner may dig in early and wind up costing you more than if you came in a little higher. In other words, don’t tick off the seller if they have priced the home well.

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CASH IS KING! Cash offers put you at the head of the class. The best advice for cash transactions is to add an appraisal contingency if there is any concern regarding value. Short of having the cash or knowing 100% financing is no issue; your position is greatly enhanced by obtaining loan approval before you even look at any real estate. TRUST YOUR AGENT Having rapport with a trusted real estate professional can be an asset to you. Every home and situation is different, and there are a whole host of other factors that may come into play. A real estate agent who is the local expert generally will have insight and local knowledge that can only work to your benefit. We sell homes every month of the year, so our knowledge is built to help you. We have built a system that includes many professionals who work together for you.

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The first order of business is to get the home inspection completed, usually within the first two weeks. If there are any issues with the property, we need to know those as soon as possible. If there are repairs needed, they should be completed professionally by a licensed contractor prior to closing. If there are issues that cannot be remedied, we may want to cancel the contract. Talk to your agent about the return of deposit monies. WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN YOU’RE INSPECTING A home inspection can be a nerve-racking part of the home-buying process, but it is also a vital step. Here are a few things an inspector may find that could add to the cost of a home or save you from buying a lemon altogether.

GUIDE TO B UY I NG

HOME INSPECTION

1. LURKING CHARGES Even though a home’s electrical system may seem to function adequately, inspections can reveal safety issues. This frequently happens with old wiring that’s corroded or outdated, or with new wiring that was improperly installed. 2. A FAILING GRADE Poor grading, or a slope that drains water toward your house instead of away from it, can cause all kinds of problems such as flooded crawl spaces or basements, rotting walls and framing, mold, and foundation damage. 3. TROUBLE ON TOP Roofing materials don’t last forever, and inspectors often find problems with aging materials that will soon cause problems. The scale of necessary repairs can range from needing to replace a few shingles to needing an entirely new roof. 4. MOLD Especially in humid regions, mold can sprout anywhere moisture collects, like attics, basements, and drywall around leaky pipes. If the inspector finds mold, a separate mold inspection may be required.

5. FOUNDATION FLAWS As a home settles over the years, the foundation can shift. Symptoms include cracks in the drywall, uneven floors, and doors and windows that won’t shut. While home inspectors can identify basic foundation issues, if they see something that seems structurally suspicious, they’ll often recommend you call a foundation engineer to assess the situation. 6. NOT GOING WITH THE FLOW Inspectors often find clogged or bent gutters, or gutters that channel water too close to the house, where it can cause damage. How concerned should you be if any of these issues appear on the inspection report? An experienced REALTOR® will be able to translate the inspection report and suggest remedies—or advise you to walk away from a deal.

LOAN APPLICATION Ideally, you started your loan application before your contract was accepted. As soon as you have an accepted offer, your lender will need a copy of the contract. You can send it over to them, but your agent is happy to do this as well. Upfront loan fees usually include a loan application fee and a credit report fee. Often the mortgage company asks you to pay for the appraisal out of pocket once the inspections are done and the seller has agreed to any repairs. REPAIRS We need to give the seller ample time to address any of the appropriate issues found. If for any reason we need to cancel a contract because the seller does not wish to pay for repairs beyond the contract limits, we want to know this as quickly as possible. This is to prevent expenses like an appraisal, survey, or title search from being incurred should the contract need to be canceled. HOMEOWNER’S INSURANCE As soon as your contract is accepted, call your insurance provider and get a quote for your homeowner’s insurance. Your contract states that you agree to do this during the inspection period. If you are buying a home that needs a costly repair, say a new roof, you need to know during this inspection period. If your insurance company refuses to write your policy based on the condition of the home, finding out during the inspection period assures that you have time to search for another provider or make that a condition of sale. If you find this out after your inspection period has expired and you decide you want out of the deal, you risk getting your deposit back and lose the opportunity to ask the seller to make additional repairs.

CLOSING ON YOUR HOME We will also want to have a “final walkthrough” at the property just before closing. This is to make sure everything at the home is as expected. We will also check to ensure (if appropriate) that all systems are working as expected and that items to be conveyed per the terms of the contract are in place. We will also want to make sure any repair work is completed and that the key is removed from the lockbox to prevent access by anyone with lockbox-only access. We strive to see that everything is wrapped up before closing. If there are issues at the final walk-through, we will notify the listing agent and get those resolved before we close. Once your documents are signed and your money is delivered, we make sure you have the keys to your new home.

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GUIDE TO B UY I NG

BEFORE THE MOVE Once you determine exactly what you are bringing with you, calculate the number of moving boxes needed. We recommend starting with all of your non-essentials (everything you won’t need during the last month in your home) first. As the weeks progress, move room to room and pack as much as you can. Don’t forget to label your boxes. FORWARD YOUR MAIL Several weeks before you move, notify USPS of your upcoming change of address. All you have to do is go to USPS.com and choose the date you wish to begin forwarding your snail mail. SAVE ALL MOVING RECEIPTS Save all moving receipts for three reasons. First, by donating your things to Goodwill or Habitat for Humanity, you may be able to deduct a portion of the value of these donations against your income tax. Second, if you’re relocating for work, you may be able to deduct moving expenses from your taxes come tax season. For more information on moving expenses and taxes, read the IRS’s information sheet. And third, if your company plans to reimburse you for the move, you’ll need to show HR all of the receipts in order to get your money reimbursed. NOTIFY UTILITY COMPANIES About a week before closing on your new home, call the utility companies in that area and have them put into your name. The seller will be having them turned off, and you will want to make sure that there is no gap in service, especially during the winter months when pipes could freeze. You’ll find the contact information for the local utility companies on the Seller’s Disclosure or call your agent for help. Don’t forget to call your current utility companies to have your cable, electricity, and gas turned off where you are living now. SCHOOL Moving with school-age children? It’s never too early to start thinking about schools in the new town. There are lots of resources online to help guide you towards the best ones for your children.

CHECKLIST FOUR WEEKS TO GO

TWO WEEKS TO GO

J File a change of address form with the post office.

J If shipping a vehicle, clean it out and have fluids topped off.

J Notify creditors and subscription services of your new address. J Research doctors and dentists in your new location. J Set aside items to be sold or donated. Have a garage sale.

J Start packing. J Make travel arrangements. J Arrange for appliance servicing. J Dispose of hazardous/flammable items like gasoline, bleach, and aerosol cans. J Discontinue newspaper delivery, trash pick-up, lawn service, etc.

J Arrange time off at work. J Buy moving supplies like boxes and tape, etc. J Inventory your items. Assign a value to them all. J Arrange utility services to be turned on/off at your new and old homes.

ONE WEEK TO GO J Arrange for driver payment at your destination. J Set aside valuables and personal items that will travel with you. J Drain fuel from gas-powered equipment like lawnmowers.

THE DAY BEFORE YOU MOVE

J Notify your child’s school of your impending moves.

J Set aside a specific move-in box full of items you’ll need immediately at your new home. This contains items like towels, paper plates, and a vacuum cleaner.

THREE WEEKS TO GO

J Make sure everything is packed.

J Make a list of important names and phone numbers you’ll want to remember.

J Have important documents related to the move ready.

J Make a plan for moving pets and plants. J Make arrangements with your bank, including moving your safe deposit box. J Review your home insurance to see if moving is covered. J Transfer your insurance to cover your new home.

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J Defrost and clean your refrigerator.

MOVING DAY J Plan to be at the home when movers arrive. J Your driver should have a utility parts box to ensure all loose parts are together and easy to access at your destination. J Take a final walk-through of your home to make sure nothing has been overlooked. J Sign the Bill of Lading, electing your valuation protection coverage and double-checking that your new address and phone numbers are correct.

J Try to arrive early to verify that utilities are connected and working. J Be ready to provide payment to your driver. J Unpack and get settled in your new home.

IMPORTANT CHANGES OF ADDRESS J Utilities J Electricity J Gas J Water J Cable/Internet/Phone J Cell Phone(s) J Trash

J USPS Mail Forwarding J Voter Registration J Business License Office (If you operate a business from home)

MEMBERSHIPS

GUIDE TO B UY I NG

J Lock all doors and windows and turn off all switches.

J Professional Associations J Magazines/Subscriptions J Gyms J Churches J Community Groups J Alma Maters J Civic Organizations J Licensing Boards J Other Extracurricular Activities

SERVICES FINANCIAL J Employment (HR/Payroll) J Banks and Credit Cards J Loan Agencies (Mortgage, Auto, Student) J Insurance (Auto, Medical, Home, Dental, Life) J Investment Broker

GOVERNMENT J Social Security J Department of Revenue

J Home (Lawn, Delivery, Housekeeping) J Childcare (School, Daycare, Babysitter) J Doctors J Lawyers J Accountants J Vet/Groomer

OTHER J Business Cards J Friends/Family

J DMV (License Registration)

ALL ABOUT

RENTING

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DO YOUR RESEARCH First things first, get to know your market. Take a look at similar homes to yours in your local area and find out how much they are being leased for per month. If your rent is set too high or too low, prospective tenants will steer clear. Think about your target demographic and consider who your property would be suitable for—young families, students, or single professionals? Once you’ve done your homework, set a competitive price and aim to keep it filled at all times to minimize rental voids. PREPARE YOUR PROPERTY Before you make your property available to rent, you’ll need to decide whether to market the house as furnished or unfurnished. Personal belongings or items of value should be removed from the property, and be sure to clear out anything that is old and tired, not fit for purpose, or an ‘acquired taste.’ A property that offers a blank canvas is often more appealing to prospective tenants. Neutral colors will allow renters to picture themselves living in the space and will also make the property easy to maintain at each check-in/ check-out. And don’t forget the exterior of the house—general sprucing of outdoor spaces will make the property more attractive to renters. Think about hiring professionals to give your home a deep clean. Professional cleaners will scrub everything from the windows to the oven—they’ll even scrub behind radiators. Make copies of any keys that a tenant may need for windows and doors or for gas and electricity meters. It’s also a good idea to dig out instruction manuals for the boiler, alarm system, range, and any appliances, so the tenant has them on hand as soon as they move in.

SORT OUT INSURANCE It is very important that your current buildings and contents insurer is made aware of your intention to rent out your property, as your policy may need to be amended.

AL L AB OUT RE NT I NG

If you’re thinking about leasing out your home, there are a number of important factors to consider before putting it up for rent. From practical advice to legal responsibilities, our handy guide has got you covered.

Consider arranging landlord insurance, which will cover any financial losses connected with your rental property. While landlord insurance isn’t a legal requirement, it is advisable, as the policy will protect the building, your tenants, and your investment as a whole—some will also pay out if your tenant misses their rent payments. Whether you’re a firsttime landlord or have leased properties before, there are some things every landlord should know. Regulations change often, which means that not checking the rules can result in a landlord unwittingly breaking the law. Make sure you understand your obligations and responsibilities as a landlord and how to protect your property, keep your tenants happy, and deal appropriately with any issues as they arise. KNOW YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES The decision to rent your home will mean that you go from being a homeowner and occupier to a landlord, and with your new status comes great responsibility. Be sure to check that your mortgage allows you to rent out your property, as some agreements contain caveats to prevent homes from being rented. If you are unsure, speak to your mortgage lender, and they will be able to advise you accordingly. LEARN THE LEGAL STUFF When it comes to being a landlord, there are more regulations to comply with than you may think. For some reason, many investors choose not to educate themselves on fair housing laws, and there can be serious implications if you violate them. There’s no excuse for not educating yourself on the laws in the real estate industry.

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F I NANC IAL ASP E C T S

CHOOSING THE RIGHT LENDER Unless you have a close relationship with a banker, you should talk with a local mortgage broker. Mortgage brokers represent a variety of companies and can shop your loan to get you the best rate and terms. Our experience has shown that choosing a lender in the city where you are buying is usually best. Laws differ from state to state. It’s important that your loan officer and the underwriters know your market and local laws that might affect your loan and closing regulations. While loan approvals are easy to obtain over the Internet, we have seen transactions collapse at the last minute when the loan officer isn’t local or easily accessible. Many Internet companies quote fantastic rates but come up short in service and performance. You do not want to find yourself at the mercy of a long-distance call center, managing your transaction over the Internet. You want someone you can readily get hold of when that unexpected glitch happens and your problem needs quick resolution. Your agent can refer several local lenders known for their excellent rates, personal service, and on-time closings. INTERNET LENDERS We have seen in recent years several transactions collapse in the final week because some Internet lender did not do something required to get the transaction closed. Many quote fantastic rates but oftentimes cannot deliver. If any issues come up during the transaction, we may have a difficult time getting them solved. There is nothing worse than having gone through the process only to find an issue in the 11th hour. This is why we suggest working with those lenders with local knowledge. LOCAL LENDERS Our agents work with a variety of lenders on a regular basis. We only recommend lenders who treat our customers professionally and have competitive rates. Our ongoing relationships in the area mean loan officers work hard to earn our referrals. While you are not obligated to use one of our recommended lenders, it is a good place to start. If you already have someone you want to work with, great! That’s how we find trustworthy companies and excellent loan teams. Who knows, we may recommend your lender to a future buyer if they meet our standards.

KNOW YOUR PRICE RANGE Starting by getting pre-approved for your loan means that you know how much home you can afford. How long you plan to stay in your home can determine how much downpayment you want to invest. Do you qualify for a VA loan? Is there grant money available in the community where you are looking? These questions and more should be answered before you start your home search. Do you have DIY skills and enjoy home projects? Talking with your lender and your agent can help you decide between that fixer-upper that will need cash on hand versus a more expensive move-in-ready home. BUYING CONTINGENT UPON THE SALE OF YOUR HOME If you need the proceeds from your current home to buy your next one, there are several options available. If you have substantial equity in your current home, there are lenders who will consider you for what is called an Equity Loan or Bridge Loan. If you qualify for this loan, it is possible to close on your new home while you work to sell your current home. This option has some risk involved. You might find yourself making two house payments. Another option is fairly risk-free but inconvenient because you move twice. Sell your current home and move into a short-term rental while you shop for your new house and close. A third option is to write a contract for your new place, contingent upon the sale of your current house. This has a lot of moving parts, but if a seller is willing to work with you, it can be a great solution. Current market conditions affect which option might be best for you. Your lender and your agent can help you know the risks and advantages of each.

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A personalized approach to managing wealth Douglas M. James CFP®, CLTC, CPFA™

Managing Director Saddle River Financial Group

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b Alternative Investments b Education Planning b Investment Strategies

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b Estate, Charitable Giving & Trust**

b Longevity Planning

b Corporate Retirement Plan Consulting b Financial Planning

b Portfolio Management

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www.raymondjames.com/saddleriver/ *Banking and Lending Services provided by Raymond James Bank, member FDIC, affiliated with Raymond James Financial Services and Raymond James & Associates, Inc. **Raymond James Trust, N.A. is a subsidiary of Raymond James Financial, Inc. Raymond James & Associates, Inc. and Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. are affiliated with Raymond James Trust. Private Wealth Advisor is a designation awarded by Raymond James to financial advisors who have demonstrated mastery in anticipating and managing the expansive financial needs of high-net-worth individuals, families and organizations. The Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Advisors 2026 ranking, developed by SHOOK Research, is based on an algorithm of qualitative criteria, mostly gained through telephone and in-person due diligence interviews, and quantitative data. This ranking is based upon the period from 6/30/2024 to 6/30/2025 and was released on 4/7/2026. Those advisors that are considered have a minimum of seven years of experience, and the algorithm weighs factors like revenue trends, assets under management, compliance records, industry experience and those that encompass best practices in their practices and approach to working with clients. Portfolio performance is not a criteria due to varying client objectives and lack of audited data. Out of approximately 52,043 nominations, roughly 11,302 advisors received the award. This ranking is not indicative of an advisor’s future performance, is not an endorsement, and may not be representative of individual clients’ experience. Neither Raymond James nor any of its Financial Advisors or RIA firms pay a fee in exchange for this award/rating. Compensation provided for using the rating. Raymond James is not affiliated with Forbes or Shook Research, LLC. Please visit https://www.forbes.com/best-in-state-wealth-advisors/ for more info. Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC, marketed as Saddle River Financial Group. Investment advisory services offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc.. Saddle River Financial Group is separately owned and operated and not independently registered as a broker-dealer or investment adviser. Saddle River Financial Group: 65 E Allendale Rd // Saddle River, NJ 07458-2927 T 201.760.8700

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Saving enough money for a down payment can be challenging, but some discipline and a plan may help bring you closer to homeownership. 1. TRACK EVERY DOLLAR Find out exactly where your money goes each month by keeping track of every single item or service you purchase over 30 days. Review your credit card and bank statements to categorize where you spend each dollar.

F I NANC IAL ASP E C T S

SEVEN BUDGETING TIPS WHEN SAVING FOR A DOWN PAYMENT

2. RATE EVERY PURCHASE Using the month of expenditures, rate each item or service you bought as a “want” or a “need.” 3. SET SAVINGS GOALS Using your “wants” and “needs” list, determine where you can realistically cut spending. Use the budget to set monthly and yearly savings goals. 4. SET ASIDE FUNDS Create a separate savings account for your down payment. It’s not only easier to track, but blocking off the funds may make you think twice before dipping into that money for something other than your future home. 5. SAVE AUTOMATICALLY If you are paid through direct deposit, chances are you can split your paychecks into more than one account. Set it up for regular deposits to be made into your new “down payment” savings account. 6. SAVE YOUR TAX REFUND The IRS estimates that more than 150 million tax returns will be filed this year. Save your tax refund and apply it to your down payment. 7. MAXIMIZE YOUR RETURNS Once you have a bit of money saved, talk to a financial professional about places you can invest it to get a bigger return than you would by keeping it in your savings account—perhaps a money market account or a Certificate of Deposit (CD).

FINANCIAL FAQs WHAT DOCUMENTS WILL I NEED TO APPLY FOR A MORTGAGE? The documents needed for getting a mortgage are pretty straightforward. Other than having satisfactory credit, the lenders typically care about your income and down payment for buying a home or equity in your home if you are refinancing. Thus, if you are buying a home, the lender will need 30 days worth of pay stubs, the last two years’ W-2s and tax returns, a driver’s license, and two complete months of bank statements to verify assets being used for a down payment. WHAT IS A GOOD INTEREST RATE ON A HOME LOAN? Determining what is a good interest rate on a home loan depends on your credit scores and whether or not you want the loan with the lowest closing costs or the lowest rate. It is important to speak to a local mortgage broker who will take the time to analyze your short- and long-term goals for the home loan that you are applying for. Typically, if you are planning on keeping a mortgage short-term, then it makes more sense to take an interest rate that has little or no closing costs associated with it.

WHAT IS THE APR ON A MORTGAGE? The APR on a mortgage is the true cost of a loan. Your mortgage payment is based on your note rate that is always lower than the APR. For instance, if there are no discount points associated with a mortgage rate, then the APR will be very close to the note rate. However, if you are paying discount points, then the gap between the note rate and the APR increases depending on the number of discount points or origination fees associated with the instant rate. A lot of online advertisements focus consumers’ attention on the note rate rather than the APR. Consumers should pay particular attention to the fine print when shopping for the lowest APR/mortgage rates. ARE HOME EQUITY LOAN RATES DIFFERENT FROM MORTGAGE RATES? Yes. Home equity loan rates are most often tied to the prime rate and, depending on market conditions, can be lower or higher than 30-year fixed mortgage rates. Also, home equity loan rates are typically adjustable rates that fluctuate monthly. If you are looking for home equity loan rates that are fixed, chances are that the rate will always be higher than a traditional first lien fixed mortgage. When it comes to home equity loans, your best bet is to deal directly with a local bank, as they offer the best no-closing-cost options for consumers that also bank with them. ARE SECOND-HOME MORTGAGE RATES LOWER THAN OWNER-OCCUPIED HOME RATES? Second-home rates are slightly higher than owneroccupied rates. However, the required down payment for second homes is higher and directly affects the interest rates you are offered. The higher the down payment, the lower your second home mortgage rate. If you are researching the best rates online, know that FHA loans are not qualified for purchasing a second home. So, be sure to look for conventional rates online and not FHA rates. WHAT IS A CONSTRUCTION LOAN? A new construction loan is funding for either major new building projects or comprehensive renovations. Think new housing developments, luxury homes, office space converted to condos, etc.

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F I NANC IAL ASP E C T S WHAT FEES MIGHT I EXPECT TO PAY? Property development finance comes with an assortment of fees, and it’s a good idea to know what you’ll need to fork out for before you get started. Take a look at the fees section for full details. HOW MUCH CAN I BORROW? Loans are based on a percentage of the gross development value. For more details, take a look at our overview of finance. IS REFURBISHMENT FINANCE THE SAME THING? No. Refurbishment finance is for much smaller projects like you see on lots of TV shows where a developer does up a property and tries to sell it on for a profit. WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS FOR A VA LOAN? You must obtain a valid Certificate of Eligibility (COE) that meets minimum time and discharge status as per the veteran business administration. In addition, the veteran must meet the credit and income qualifications set forth under VA loan guidelines. HOW DOES MY CREDIT AFFECT MY HOME FINANCING OPTIONS? Home financing options are often limited based on your credit score. The higher the credit score, the lower the home financing rates and the lower the down payment requirements for first-time home buyers. Home financing options range from FHA loans, VA loans, jumbo loans, USDA loans, and traditional conventional loans. Be aware that not every mortgage lender participates in the above home financing options and that using a mortgage broker typically results in being presented with more financing options.

LEGAL

CONSIDERATIONS

Buying or selling a home can be a confusing process, especially if it is your first time. If you are going through the process right now, the following provides basic information on some key rights and some topics buyers and sellers should be aware of: homestead exemptions and buyers’ deposit rights.

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LE GAL C ONSIDE R AT IONS The information provided does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice; instead, all information and content are for general informational purposes only. Information contained in this book may not constitute the most up-to-date legal information. Readers should contact their attorney to obtain advice with respect to any particular legal matter. No reader should act or refrain from acting on the basis of information without first seeking legal advice from counsel in the relevant jurisdiction. Only your individual attorney can provide assurances that the information contained herein—and your interpretation of it—is applicable or appropriate to your particular situation.

In today’s volatile real estate market, experienced representation is crucial to protect your interests during each and every step of a real estate transaction. Buying and selling property in both commercial and residential markets is more complicated than ever before. Real estate attorneys represent clients in all phases of these transactions, including preparation and review of: •

Real Estate Purchase and Sale Agreements

•

Land Surveys

•

Deed Restrictions

•

Financing Documents

•

Closing Documents

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If the buyer elects to place the earnest money deposit in escrow, the builder has the right to charge the purchaser the builder’s cost of borrowing that amount of money, less any interest that the builder is able to obtain on the escrows while the deposits are being held in the bank.

LE GAL C ONSIDE R AT IONS

KNOW YOUR RIGHTS CONCERNING REAL ESTATE DEPOSITS ON NEW HOMES If one is buying a new home, a question that arises is whether or not to place your deposit in escrow or release the funds to the builder. The buyer has a choice and must decide in writing which option to choose. At first glance the decision would appear simple: just put the money in escrow where it is safe and secure. However, the decision requires carefully weighing factors, such as whether or not the builder is likely to complete the project, as well as the general risk tolerance of the buyer.

If you would like to know more about your rights and other legal and financial benefits of homeownership, there are many real estate attorneys who may be able to help. INHERITED PROPERTY The process of selling an inherited home can become very complicated. There are different procedures that have to be worked through before selling the property. The more you know on the specific topics, the easier it will be for you to manage the sale. IS THERE A VALID WILL? The first step in the process will be to determine whether the deceased individual has a valid will. When a person dies and they leave a will, they are referred to as a “testate.” If the decedent passes without leaving a will, they are referred to as an “intestate.” There are typically two different estate proceedings that will be followed; they are: Probate: If the person who died had a will, then you will be forced to go through probate to divide up the assets in question. Administration: If the person dies without a will, then you will file for an administration, and the property will be divided by law. Probate is the court process by which a will is proved either valid or invalid. This process is held in the hands of the surrogate court, and they will need to see that the will is proved to satisfaction. Once the will is deemed valid, the executor, who is named in the will, will be appointed to distribute the estate. At this time they will attempt to move forward with the wishes of the individual who passed.

FILING FOR PROBATE Be sure that you list all of the “heirs” on the probate petition. The “heirs” must also be served with a notice. Once this happens, the surrogate courts will not have control over the “heirs.” At this point, the notice that was delivered will make the “heirs” aware that the executor has filed for the authority of the estate. If the will has beneficiaries that are due to receive assets in the will, they must be notified of the probate proceedings.

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LE GAL C ONSIDE R AT IONS OPTIONS WHEN SELLING AN INHERITED HOME At this point, we have the specifics out of the way in regard to the inherited sale process. Those initial steps can become very complicated. It is best if you take the extra step and continue to educate yourself, so you will be more comfortable throughout the process. When it comes to the sale of your real property, there are a couple options that you can consider. Each option offers its own unique benefits to the new homeowner. The option you choose will depend on: •

The market conditions

•

Your current financial status

•

The condition of the home

•

The location of the home

•

Your knowledge of real estate

•

Your intentions for the home

LISTING WITH AN AGENT Selling your home with a real estate agent is the traditional route that most homeowners use to sell. If this is the vehicle that you intend to use, hiring a real estate agent does not mean that you are no longer involved in the transaction. You should do some research on your local market. This will help you better understand the market conditions. Finding out if you are in a buyer’s market or seller’s market can also help. The benefits of listing your home with a real estate agent are: •

They do understand the market and the conditions.

•

They have the tools to price your home right.

•

They will handle all the negotiations.

•

They are in charge of the showings/open houses.

•

They handle the marketing and paperwork.

•

They should have a network of other agents who can bring potential buyers.

•

Have access to the MLS to list.

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NEW JERSEY CONSUMER PROTECTION ENHANCEMENT ACT BRINGS TRANSPARENCY NJ Realtors, the New Jersey real estate association, championed a bill that would enhance real estate transaction transparency and protect consumers in New Jersey. After passing the legislature unanimously, Governor Murphy signed Bill S3192/A4454 or the Consumer Protection Enhancement Act into law on August 1st, 2024. The New Jersey Real Estate Consumer Protection Enhancement Act strengthens both consumer and real estate licensee protections by requiring the following six major changes: BROKERAGE AGREEMENTS All real estate transactions now require brokerage agreements. As always, sellers and landlords must sign listing agreements before a brokerage begins marketing their property for sale or rent. Now, buyers and tenants must sign agency agreements with sales professionals before touring a property. This practice ensures that all parties are aware of the services provided throughout the transaction and the compensation the parties negotiated. SELLER’S PROPERTY CONDITION DISCLOSURE Before a buyer signs an offer to purchase contract, they must receive a fully completed Seller’s Property Condition Disclosure. The Department of Community Affairs document asks detailed questions about the structure and mechanics of the property and requires specific flood risk disclosure (resulting from the Flood Disclosure Law, March 2024). For Sale by Owner (FSBO), bank/REO and estate administrators are no longer exempt. This change will ensure buyers are more fully aware of a property’s condition before submitting an offer. OPEN HOUSE DISCLOSURE Listing agents must explicitly disclose who they represent when hosting an Open House. Required disclosures must be posted on the front door or by the sign in sheets.

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DESIGNATED AGENCY In Dual Agency, a brokerage is able to “designate” or appoint an agent to represent either the buyer or the seller in a transaction, ensuring that all parties receive full fiduciary and advice. Previously, in Dual Agency, the agent would not be able to advise on price and terms because it was assumed that they had full knowledge of the other party’s motivations and financial requirements. COMPENSATION DISCLOSURE IN THE MLS In line with the NAR settlement, it is no longer allowable for a brokerage to disclose compensation through a Multiple Listing Service (MLS). Agents will negotiate compensation separately with their seller clients and buyer clients. Who pays who will be negotiated as part of the total purchase offer. This will not preclude sellers from paying buyer agent commissions through seller concessions or credits towards buyer closing costs. Likewise, sellers may choose only to pay the listing agent, and the buyer may pay their representative separately. CONTINUING EDUCATION REQUIREMENT License renewal continuing education requirements will now include classes on “Agency” (one credit hour). This will ensure that licensees are fully versed in all forms of representation available to consumers in New Jersey. While change brings challenges, it may also bring opportunity. The Consumer Protection Enhancement Act encourages real estate licensees to demonstrate their value, help consumers better understand the value of representation in a real estate transaction, and ensure greater transparency. The true value of a real estate professional is not to provide access to a property, rather it’s to help our consumers avoid costly mistakes when making what may be the greatest financial investment of their lives.

GLOSSARY OF TERMS All you’re looking for are some straightforward answers with no jargon. That’s why we’ve created this simple list of terms. • Adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM)

There are two types of conventional loans: the fixed-rate and the adjustable-rate mortgage. In an adjustable-rate mortgage, the interest rate can change over the course of the loan at five-, seven-, or ten-year intervals. For homeowners who plan to stay in their home for more than a few years, this is a risky loan as rates can suddenly skyrocket depending on market conditions.

• Appraisal

An appraisal is required to gather the estimated value of a piece of real estate. During the home sale, the mortgage lender sends out an appraiser to get a professional opinion of the value of the property. This helps the lender decide if the property is worth the amount of the loan the potential buyer is seeking.

• As-is

A property marketed in “as is” condition usually indicates that the seller is unwilling to perform most if not all repairs. It could also mean that it is priced “as is”, which is typically lower than market pricing in the area.

• Buyer’s agent/listing agent

A buyer’s agent, also known as a selling agent, is a licensed real estate professional whose job is to locate a buyer’s next property, represent their interests by negotiating on behalf of that buyer to obtain the best price and purchasing scenario for that buyer as possible. This agent is a fiduciary for the buyer. The listing agent, also known as the seller’s agent, is a licensed real estate professional whose job is to market the seller’s property, and to represent the seller’s best interest by negotiating on behalf of the seller to secure the best price and selling scenario as possible. This agent is a fiduciary for the seller.

• Closing

Closing is when the home sale is considered final, which typically includes all parties’ signatures on all required documents, all monies conveyed, and when a lender is involved, with full lender’s approval. For some markets across the nation, recording the deed with the county clerk’s office is the ultimate and final step of closing. Once all these items are completed, then a buyer’s access to the property is provided, and the buyer is considered the new homeowner.

• Days on market (DOM)

DOM is defined as the number of days from the date on which the property is listed for sale on the local real estate brokers’ multiple listing service (MLS) to the date when the seller has signed a contract for the sale of the property with the buyer. A related metric is the average DOM for homes sold in a market during a specified period. A low average DOM indicates a strong market that favors sellers. A high average DOM signals a weak market that favors buyers. Seasonality can also be a factor.

• Equity

Equity is ownership. In homeownership, equity refers to how much of your home you actually own—meaning how much of the principal you’ve paid off. The more equity you have, the more financial flexibility you have, as you can refinance against whatever equity you’ve built. Put another way, equity is the difference between the fair market value of the home and the unpaid balance of the mortgage. If you have a $200,000 home, and you still owe $150,000 on it, you have $50,000 in equity.

• Escrow

Escrow is an account that the lender sets up that receives monthly payments from the buyer. The escrow holder is the agent and depositary (impartial third-party) who collects the money, written instruments, documents, personal property, or other things of value to be held until the happening of specified events or the performance of described conditions, usually set forth in mutual, written instructions from the parties.

• Fixed rate mortgage

With fixed rate mortgages, your interest rate stays the same for the duration of the loan. They are often available as 10, 15, 20 & 30year loans with the most popular being 15- and 30-year.

• Homeowner’s association (HOA)

A homeowner’s association is a private association that manages a planned community or condominium. When you purchase a property that is managed by an HOA, you agree to abide by the HOA’s rules and pay its monthly or annual HOA dues. If you fail to pay and/or comply, they often have the ability to file a lien against the property and/or foreclose on the property.

• Home sale contingency

A home sale contingency is for a buyer to indicate to a seller that part of their condition to purchase the seller’s property relies on the buyer’s ability to finalize a close on their current property. This is often negotiated with a clause in a contract or with an addendum to a contract. An example of how such a contingency can be used would be if a buyer needs to sell their property in order to have the down payment required on the purchase of the new property or would rather use their sale proceeds instead of their savings to make the down payment. Depending on the market, it could hamper negotiations with a seller when a contingency is part of the picture.

• Inspection

An inspection happens when buyers pay a licensed professional inspector to visit the home and prepare a report on its condition and any needed repairs. The inspection often happens as part of the due diligence period, so buyers can fully assess if they want to buy a particular home “as is” or ask the seller to either complete or pay for certain repairs.

• Interest

This is the cost of borrowing money for a home. Interest is combined with principal to determine monthly mortgage payments. The longer a mortgage is, the more you will pay in interest when you have finally paid off the loan.

• Land lease

Traditionally, when you purchase a home, you own the home and the land the property is built on. There are some circumstances that involve a land lease, which means you would own the home while paying rent to the landowner for the land.

• Mortgage broker

The broker is an individual or company that is responsible for taking care of all aspects of the deal between borrowers and lenders, whether that be originating the loan or placing it with a funding source such as a bank.

• Mortgage pre-approval letter

Getting a mortgage pre-approval letter is important because it gives home buyers an idea of what they can afford. A mortgage pre-approval letter is issued by the lender and identifies the terms, loan type and loan amount the buyer qualifies for after checking the buyer’s debt-to-income ratios along with cash on hand and credit history. Many sellers or their agents require a mortgage letter with any home offer that isn’t all-cash since it acts as proof the buyer has been qualified to get financing.

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• Multiple listing service (or MLS)

An MLS is a database that allows real estate agent and broker members to access and add information about properties for sale in an area. When a home is listed for sale, it gets logged into the local MLS by a listing agent. Buyer’s agents often check the MLS to see what’s on the market and what similar homes have sold for. According to Inman.com, there are over 600 MLS organizations in the United States.

• Natural hazards disclosure (NHD) report A report required by most states that discloses if a property is in an area that has a higher risk of natural hazards. The report is typically paid for by the seller and given to the buyer during escrow.

The following natural hazard zones are covered in a NHD report: • Special flood hazard area • Area of potential flooding • Very high fire hazard severity zone • Wildland area that may contain substantial forest fire risk and hazards • Earthquake fault zone • Seismic hazard zone

• Offer/counteroffer

Buyers make a formal offer on the home they want to purchase. The offer can be the full list price, or what you and your agent deem a fair market value. The buyer’s agent puts the offer in writing, asks you to sign it, and then submits it to the seller’s agent. The seller might immediately accept it, in which case it becomes the parties’ purchase contract, or may make what’s known as a counteroffer.

• Preliminary report

A preliminary report reveals any issues with a title that need to be dealt with by the seller in order to deliver a clear title. It gives details such as ownership history, liens, and easements. The title company gathers this report by searching existing property records at the county recorder’s office.

• Probate sale

A probate sale happens when a homeowner dies without writing a will or leaving a property to someone. In such situations, the probate court would authorize an estate attorney, or other representative, to hire a real estate agent to sell the home. The total process will usually be a bit more complicated and therefore will take more time than a conventional sale.

• Proof of funds

When you make an offer, sellers will require you to submit proof of funds. If you’re buying a house with a mortgage, it shows them that you have the cash available for your down payment and closing costs. If you’re paying all cash, your proof of funds shows you have the money. The following documents qualify as proof of funds: • Original or online bank statements with bank letterhead • Copy of a money market account balance with bank’s logo or letterhead • Certified financial statements, such as an income or cash flow statement that’s been signed off on by an accountant • An open equity line of credit

• Purchase and sale agreement (PSA)

A purchase and sale agreement is commonly referred to a written contract between the buyer and seller, which outlines the terms of the parties to sell and purchase real property. When a home is “under contract” it usually signifies that the Buyer and Seller have formalized their commitment to sell and purchase the real property.

• Real estate broker

A real estate broker is a real estate agent who has passed a state broker’s exam and met a minimum number of transactions. These brokers can work on their own or hire their own agents.

• REALTOR®

An actively licensed real estate agent and REALTOR® are often used interchangeably, although not every real estate agent is a REALTOR®. A REALTOR® is a member of the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR). A REALTOR® promises to uphold the Code of Ethics of the association and to hold each other accountable when serving the public, customers, clients, and each other, with a high standard of practice and care.

• Seller’s disclosure

A seller’s disclosure is a disclosure by the seller of information about the property, or which could affect a buyer’s decision to purchase the property, all of which to the best of the seller’s knowledge. A seller must also indicate items which are not specific to the property itself but related to a person’s enjoyment of the property, such as pest problems, property line disputes, knowledge of major construction projects in the area, military base related noises or activities, association related assessments or legal issues.

• Title search

A title search examines public records for the history of the home, including sales, purchases, and tax and other types of liens. Generally, a title examiner will conduct a search using title plants, and sometimes the county records, to see who is listed as the record owner of the property. Such information, along with any liens or encumbrances that are recorded against the property, will be listed in the Preliminary Report for the parties to review prior to the close of escrow.

• Trust sale

A trust sale means that the home is being sold by a trustee of a living trust – and not a private party. Often this is because the original homeowner has passed away or has placed their assets in a living trust. The trustee may not be as emotionally attached to the property as a traditional owner, which could translate to them accepting a less attractive offer as the trustee may prefer to offload the property.

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