2004 Press Releases

( December 17, 2004 ) At the annual Realtor Triple Play Convention and Trade Expo held recently in Atlantic City, NJ ERA associates from throughout New Jersey were honored for their achievements in several areas.

Realtor and Realtor-Associates throughout New Jersey were recognized for earning their GRI (Graduate Realtor Institute) designation, a nationally recognized accomplishment which requires the successful completion of a rigorous program of coursework. Candidates for a GRI designation must attend 90 hours of classroom instruction on subjects including ethics, business development, technology, financing, legal issues, fair housing and more.

According to Mary Ann Sgobba of ERA Soldoveri Realty, an ERA Broker/Owner honored for receiving her GRI designation this year, “The GRI classes provide real estate associates with the skills and education to counsel clients on the more sophisticated aspects of real estate, such as investing. Having the designation shows your clients that you have the professionalism, initiative and knowledge to help them with more complex real estate transactions.”

Attending the Triple Play Convention with 12 of his associates, Broker/Owner Pat Rizzo of ERA Rizzo Realty also had two of his agents honored for earning the prestigious GRI designation. “I totally support the pursuit of the GRI designation because I know firsthand how it can sharpen an agent’s ability to handle the ever changing real estate laws in New Jersey , which can help them to better serve the needs of their clients.”

Realtors who have a total of 25 years of membership in the New Jersey Association of Realtors (NJAR) were inducted into the association’s Quarter Century Club at the convention. With 46 years of real estate experience, Vincent Carano of ERA Carano Realty is a longtime member of this club. ERA brokers, managers and sales associates who are members of the Quarter Century Club include: Lydia Sanchez Flagg of ERA Queen City Realty, Sandra Jackson of ERA Reed Realty, and Karen Johnson and Thomas Parisi of ERA All Realty. The newest members of the Quarter Century Club received a certificate and pin at an awards ceremony commemorating their 25 years of service.

Kenneth Nuss, Broker/Sales Representative, of ERA Best Choice Realtors was honored as Realtor of the Year by the Sussex County Association of Realtors, one of 24 local Realtor associations in New Jersey . The award recognizes a longstanding dedication to the real estate profession, industry association service, and outstanding community service.

For more information, contact your local ERA office or visit ERANJ.com. ERA is a global leader in the residential real estate industry with more than 30 years of experience in developing consumer-oriented products and services. The ERA Real Estate network includes approximately 32,250 brokers and sales associates throughout the United States and 30 other countries and territories.

(November 30, 2004) The depth and breadth of the translation is what makes Espanol.ERA.com, ERA’s newly launched Spanish-language consumer website, different from other Spanish-translated websites.

Espanol.ERA.com utilizes a unique process which provides a complete translation of its English-language sister-site, ERA.com. While many other websites only convert the top layers of their English sites, ERA’s website displays all site content in Spanish.

On the new website, Spanish-speaking users have access to all of the same information available on ERA.com, including detailed property information, office and sales associate profile pages, search functions, resource tools, valuable homebuying and selling information and home financing information. Website visitors can access a Spanish version of ERA ANSWERS, the company’s online real estate reference book, to view ninety of the most frequently asked real estate related questions and answers.

The process used to accomplish this comprehensive translation combines automated and human assisted translations. The “exceptions” dictionary properly translates over 40,000 real estate terms not commonly found in a standard English to Spanish dictionary.

The ERA Brokers of New Jersey, who represent ERA offices in Bergen , Essex , Hudson , Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth, Morris, Ocean, Passaic , Somerset , Sussex and Union Counties , understand the critical role that language plays in a real estate transaction, and are pleased about this latest addition to ERA’s Hispanic Marketing Program. “I think the new website will make our customers more comfortable, and any time people have a comfort level, it is helpful,” stated Lydia Sanchez Flagg, Broker/Owner of ERA Queen City Realty. “In our own office, we speak 14 languages in order to allow our customers to speak with us in their native language.”

“Through ERA’s Spanish-language materials and training programs, ERA sales associates are well equipped to help serve the growing Hispanic Market in New Jersey ,” added Ms. Sanchez Flagg. “ERA makes it easy for our clients by offering this new Spanish-language website as well as brochures, marketing materials and television commercials all translated into Spanish.”

( November 16, 2004 ) The ERA Brokers of New Jersey are pleased to announce that ERA’s newly redesigned consumer website, ERA.com, has received both the Standard of Excellence Award from the Web Marketing Association and Galaxy’s Best of Websites Award.

This year, more than 1,300 websites from 19 countries competed in the Web Marketing Association (WMA) competition. The Standard of Excellence Award given to ERA.com was based on the website’s overall design, copywriting, innovation, content, interactivity, navigation and use of technology. The award was judged against the websites of industry peers by a team of independent Internet professionals.

ERA.com was also the recipient of the Galaxy Grand Award for the Best of Websites category. The Galaxy Award competition recognizes excellence in product and service marketing, and is sponsored by MerComm, Inc., an independent awards organization whose mission is to advance the standards of excellence in the field of corporate communications.

Earlier this year, ERA Real Estate unveiled its revamped consumer website, ERA.com. New elements include enhanced listing pages, customizable client features, a more refined property search system and an improved navigation system which makes it easier for consumers to identify and communicate with their local ERA associate.

Among the new features, My Listing Editor lets brokers and sales associates modify their listings to include specific property information which consumers like to see. MyERA.com is a new component which enables consumers to individualize their experience on the site by saving search criteria and listings, significantly reducing the time needed for their home search. Consumers are also able to receive e-mails from ERA of home listings that match their specific preferences. My Virtual Assistant is a home planning tool that helps consumers track and record activities involved in the purchase or sale of a home, including inspections, title searches and utility information.

“The enhancements to ERA.com give it a fresh look, faster and easier access to listings and other helpful features, and offer consumers a more personalized online experience,” states Paul Giannantonio, President of the ERA Brokers of New Jersey and Broker/Owner, ERA American Dream Realtors. “We encourage our clients to use the tools offered on ERA.com – to track the progress of their transaction online and to obtain answers to frequently asked real estate-related questions which are featured in ERA’s online ANSWERS book.”

For more information on ERA, contact your local ERA office or visit ERANJ.com. ERA is a global leader in the residential real estate industry with more than 30 years of experience in developing consumer-oriented products and services. The ERA Real Estate network includes approximately 32,250 brokers and sales associates throughout the United States and 30 other countries and territories.

( November 1, 2004 ) More than 200 ERA brokers and agents from throughout New Jersey are planning to attend the annual Triple Play REALTORS® Convention and Trade Expo being held December 7-9 in Atlantic City .

Real estate professionals from New Jersey , New York and Pennsylvania meet annually for the Triple Play Convention in order to learn more about the latest real estate trends, to attend classes and to network with professionals from the tri-state area. More than 10,000 attendees are expected at the convention this year.

Medhat Zak Dewaik, Broker/Owner, ERA Avalon Realty, plans to attend the convention with about 10 of his agents, and sees it as a great opportunity to meet and network with real estate professionals from other states as well as real estate service providers. “The convention is always educational and motivating. As a broker and manager, I look for new recruiting tools. My agents plan to participate in many of the marketing classes offered, especially those on how to use the Internet as a listing marketing tool.”

The education program this year will comprise more than 50 classes scheduled in eight tracks – Appraisal, Brokerage & Management, Commercial, Executive Officer/Association Executive, Legal/Tax/Environmental/Ethics, Professional Development, Sales & Marketing, and Technology. Attendees also have the opportunity to take classes which can earn them a professional designation from the National Association of REALTORS®.

According to ERA All Realty Broker Thomas Parisi, who will be attending the Triple Play Convention with more than 20 of his agents, “Our goal is to pick up at least one new idea or technique from each seminar and to learn more about the latest real estate commission laws.” Helen Marziarz, President of ERA All Realty added, “The convention is a phenomenal way to develop a referral network by meeting people from all over the tri-state region. Quite a few of our agents refer clients who are relocating to agents they met at past conventions, who they know and trust.”

The Trade Expo has been expanded this year and will include nearly 400 booths featuring the latest products and services available in the real estate industry.

For more information on ERA, contact your local ERA office or visit ERANJ.com. ERA is a global leader in the residential real estate industry with more than 30 years of experience in developing consumer-oriented products and services. The ERA Real Estate network includes more than 28,000 brokers and sales associates throughout the United States and 30 other countries and territories.

ERA Agents Meet Needs of Growing Hispanic Market

( October 15, 2004 ) The fastest growing demographic group in the U.S. , the Hispanic market, represents over 13 percent of the total U.S. population (about 40 million people) and a remarkable $581 billion in purchasing power. When it comes to real estate, the ERA Brokers of New Jersey are committed to understanding and meeting the housing needs of the growing Hispanic communities in New Jersey with bilingual sales agents and support staff, a Spanish-language website and brochures, and many other unique services.

ERA associates have access to a wide variety of tools and a marketing system that gives them a distinct advantage in working with this market. In addition to Spanish-language recruitment and training materials for sales associates, marketing materials and ERA’s award winning consumer website (www.ERA.com) are translated into Spanish to better service the Hispanic community.

To meet the specific needs of Hispanic customers, ERA focuses on the important roles cultural differences and language play in the real estate transaction process. Carl Reed, Broker/Owner, ERA Reed Realty, Inc., knows this market well since forty percent of his office’s business can be attributed to the Hispanic market. “We have found that our buyers prefer a home that is close to public transportation, with a sizable property and the potential for expansion in order to house extended family.” To accommodate their clients’ work schedules, agents usually meet with them during evenings, and on Saturdays and Sundays. Showings are often scheduled for after 8:00 p.m.

One key to succeeding in this market is to have bilingual agents and support staff. “Our clients want to communicate in their native language, so we provide agents, support staff and even mortgage specialists who can speak to them in Spanish,” added Mr. Reed.

Another cultural difference found in working with the Hispanic market is that they often bring their extended family and children to meetings, showings and closings. To make their offices more children-friendly, some ERA offices have created larger conference rooms, while others provide a big screen television, arts and crafts, a place to do homework, and candy and soda machines.

Clients appreciate that ERA offices have brochures and videos, home warranties, the consumer information statement, and even translations of contracts, in Spanish. Currently, New Jersey law does not allow for Spanish-language contracts, but customers can read a Spanish translation and then sign the English contract.

For more information, contact your local ERA office or visit ERANJ.com. ERA is a global leader in the residential real estate industry with more than 30 years of experience in developing consumer-oriented products and services. The ERA Real Estate network includes more than 28,000 brokers and sales associates throughout the United States and 30 other countries and territories.

ERA “Tech Tour 2004” Unveils Latest Technology

( October 2, 2004 ) More than 150 ERA agents, brokers and managers from offices throughout New Jersey learned about the latest and most innovative technology tools for the real estate industry at the company’s third annual Tech Tour held on September 30 at the Victorian Manor in Edison , sponsored by The Star-Ledger (NJ.com).

Dave Kovalsky, ERA Regional Vice-President, began by highlighting the latest technology developed by ERA for its agents and consumers. The agenda included several presentations on internet-based technology and two environmental issues, water- and tank-testing.

According to Suzanne Krouse, Manager of ERA Gallo & DeCroce, and Education Chairperson for the ERA Brokers of New Jersey, “With Internet use growing, we have to change our mindset about how we communicate with consumers. People who use the Internet to search for a home expect us to communicate via email. ERA’s technology tools help our agents attract leads and keep clients coming back for our services.”

Since its launch in early 2004, My ERA.com has been helping buyers reduce the time needed for a home search by saving search criteria and listings, and then emailing new listings that match a buyer’s preferences. My ERA.com also includes useful tools such as Create A Room and My Virtual Assistant. Create A Room is an interactive tool used to construct a room layout and then help plan the space for decorating, moving, etc. With My Virtual Assistant, consumers can track and record activities such as inspections, title searches, utility "ons and offs" and more.

Attendees were also encouraged to directly link their websites to the ERA Mortgage website to facilitate smooth and easy home financing for their customers. Website visitors can complete an online mortgage application form and then receive a free loan decision within minutes, giving them the confidence to make offers, negotiate and even sign a contract to buy. ERA Mortgage also unveiled a program where the buyer can lock-in a rate for 90 days at a cost of only $350, and no points. “The pre-purchase program is a win-win for buyers ready to buy a home,” added Ms. Krouse.

Additional online programs demonstrated at the Tech Tour included ERA Super Profile and ERA Direct. The former allows agents to create their own mini-websites right on ERA.com. The latter is a client follow-up program which mails out postcards and newsletters to an agent’s closed buyers, increasing the opportunities for communication.

For more information on ERA services and programs, contact your local ERA office or visit ERANJ.com. ERA is a global leader in the residential real estate industry with more than 30 years of experience in developing consumer-oriented products and services. The ERA Real Estate network includes more than 28,000 brokers and sales associates throughout the United States and 30 other countries and territories.

Local ERA Offices Donate $20,000 to MDA

ERA Raises Close to $600,000 Nationwide

( September 15, 2004 ) The ERA Brokers of New Jersey proudly announced their commitment and contribution of $20,000 to the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) during this year’s Jerry Lewis MDA Telethon which was held in early September.

The 21-and-a-half hour telethon was held in Hollywood , California , September 5 though September 6, and broadcast by more than 200 television stations to 75 million viewers in the United States , Canada and Puerto Rico . New Jersey viewers tuned to WOR-TV Channel 9 were able to view both the national telethon as well as the local telethon broadcast by the station. On the second day of the telethon, Debra Campisano of ERA Justin Realty and Sue Danner, Director of Relocation for ERA Van Syckel, Weaver & Lyte, presented the ERA Brokers of New Jersey check for $20,000 to entertainer Tony Orlando on live television.

The money raised by participating ERA offices throughout New Jersey was earmarked for the Muscular Dystrophy Summer Camp located in Spring Valley , New York . According to Ron Darby, Broker/Owner, ERA Justin Realty, “This year, we decided to focus on how we could best help children with neuromuscular diseases. The funds we raised have already been put to good use this summer helping many children attend the week-long MDA summer camp.”

“Of the $20,000 contribution, ERA Justin raised $6,000 by asking our sphere of influence – home inspectors, attorneys and anyone with whom we do business – to contribute to MDA,” added Mr. Darby. ERA Van Syckel, Weaver & Lyte raised more than $3,700 by calling family, friends and clients.

Other offices participated in the nationwide “Day in May for MDA” drive in which local ERA offices sponsor events to raise much needed funds for MDA during the month of May or soon after. This year, ERA Queen City Realty held its annual dinner dance and silent auction to benefit MDA while ERA Advantage Realty held its annual “A Day at the Races” at Freehold Raceway.

In Hollywood , P.J. Martin Smith, Senior Vice-President of Marketing for ERA Real Estate and an MDA national Vice-President, presented host Jerry Lewis with the nationwide ERA donation of $585,000. “All the members of the ERA family have once again gone above and beyond to support the great accomplishments of MDA,” said Martin Smith.

Since 1977, ERA Real Estate has been the sole corporate sponsor for MDA from the real estate industry. During this time, ERA affiliates and employees have raised more than $30 million to fund research and provide services to help the more than one million Americans affected by neuromuscular diseases. For more information on ERA’s fundraising efforts for MDA, contact your local ERA office or visit ERANJ.com. ERA is a global leader in the residential real estate industry with more than 30 years of experience in developing consumer-oriented products and services. The ERA Real Estate network includes more than 28,000 brokers and sales associates throughout the United States and 30 other countries and territories.

Home Buying and Selling ABC’s

Market Analysis, Inspections and Appraisals

( August 31, 2004 ) Buying or selling a home can be a challenging experience for both new and experienced homebuyers and sellers. As a result, approximately 90 percent of American homeowners work with a real estate professional who has access to valuable information, and the background and skills to make the process faster and easier.

Even if you have bought or sold a home before, you may still be unclear about the value and timing of several components of the real estate process -- namely, the market analysis, the inspection and the appraisal.

A market analysis is conducted shortly after you decide to put your home up for sale, when you need to establish the right asking price. ERA’s Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) supplies sellers with information on comparable homes that have sold or gone under contract in the area, and provides a realistic estimate of a home’s fair market value based on the most important features of the real estate market.

“The CMA educates our customers about the local market,” according to John C. Nuss, Broker/Owner, ERA Best Choice Realtors. “We look at a range of homes in the same town which fall into an equivalent category. In addition to features such as bedrooms, bathrooms and total square footage, we also factor in the condition and location of the home in determining a price range. As part of our service, we also suggest to the homeowner what improvements they can make to their home in order to increase the value.”

After a buyer makes an offer on a home, he or she generally calls an inspector to examine the house. A professional home inspector will check things such as the plumbing, heating, cooling and electrical systems, and look for structural problems. The inspection report will describe repairs that are recommended or needed. With full information, a buyer can then decide whether to negotiate with the seller to make the needed repairs or change the price. Real estate agents can refer buyers to qualified inspectors in their area.

A real estate appraisal comes later in the process, when you apply for a mortgage. Lenders hire professional real estate appraisers to evaluate properties under consideration for a mortgage. The appraisal is an unbiased opinion of the property’s value based on its style and appearance, construction quality, usefulness and the value of comparable homes in the area. “Appraisers generally belong to the local Multiple Listing Service in order to assess a home for sale with similar ones that have sold,” added Mr. Nuss. The appraiser will report whether the home is priced fairly, helping the lender decide whether to accept the mortgage.

For more information on CMAs, inspections and appraisals, contact your local ERA office or visit ERANJ.com. ERA is a global leader in the residential real estate industry with more than 30 years of experience in developing consumer-oriented products and services. The ERA Real Estate network includes more than 28,000 brokers and sales associates throughout the United States and 30 other countries and territories.

( August 16, 2004 ) Beginning in September and running until February 2005, ERA Real Estate will be featured for its second time on the Continental Airlines “Global Trends” video segment. In July of 2003, ERA launched a 2-month video promotion during select Continental Airlines flights. The in-flight media program was so successful last year that ERA has announced that it has arranged for an encore performance of this promotion, which it plans to run for a six-month period, starting this fall.

The "Global Trends" in-flight video presents information about trends and key developments in a variety of industries, including real estate. The two-minute segment will focus on how ERA associates can assist mature homebuyers and sellers, and will feature products and services for the senior market. Highlighted will be the ERA Sellers Security Plan which provides customers with a guaranteed sale and closing date for their current home once they meet specific requirements and accept an ERA offer.

For seniors looking to purchase another home, but are unable to because their current home is not sold, the Sellers Security Plan helps solve the contingency sale problem. With the security of a guaranteed sale in place, sellers have the opportunity to maximize their selling price because ERA will continue to market the home for the full listing cycle. The Sellers Security Plan also features an Equity Advance Program, which can provide sellers with up to $150,000 to use for a down payment and closing costs on their new home and for up to four house payments on their existing home.

The ERA segment will air on the movie channel of Continental ’s domestic and international 767 and 777 aircrafts. During the six month promotion, the ERA video will be featured on more than 144,000 flights and is expected to be viewed by nearly 16 million passengers. To gain additional exposure, ERA will also be featured in Continental’s in-flight magazine.

For more information on ERA products, services and programs for seniors, contact your local ERA office or visit ERANJ.com. ERA is a global leader in the residential real estate industry with more than 30 years of experience in developing consumer-oriented products and services. The ERA Real Estate network includes more than 28,000 brokers and sales associates throughout the United States and 30 other countries and territories.

( July 30, 2004 ) As interest rates continue to remain at historical lows, buyers continue to pursue their dream of home ownership, fueling what is expected to be another record year of home sales nationally. Interest rates have been hovering under 6 percent for a 30-year, conventional, fixed-rate mortgage, in the range of 5.2 percent for a 15-year fixed rate, and in the area of 3.4 percent for a 1-year adjustable rate mortgage.

According to National Association of Realtors (NAR) President Walt McDonald in a NAR release, “Aside from the last two years, we have to go all the way back to 1965 to find mortgage interest rates as low as they are today." Nationally, home sales remain healthy and are likely to stay quite strong, even with some easing expected for the remainder of this year. “The improving job market and higher consumer confidence are feeding into a large demographic demand for housing,” reported David Lereah, NAR's chief economist. In a July report, Mr. Lereah forecasted existing-home sales to hit a record 6.31 million this year, up 3.4 percent from 2003. New-home sales are expected to rise 6.4 percent to 1.16 million in 2004, also a record.

Across New Jersey , the median sale prices on existing single-family homes rose while the number of sales remained steady compared to the same period last year. Monmouth/Ocean counties showed the greatest price increase, up 16.6 percent. Other areas with high price increases included: Atlantic City (+12.2%); Newark (+10.6%); Middlesex/Somerset/Hunterdon (+9.9%); Trenton (+8.9%); Bergen/Passaic (+5.9%); and, Southern Jersey/Philadelphia (+5.7%). Statistics cited are from the first quarter of 2004 (the most current available) and were released by the New Jersey Association of Realtors.

Paul Giannantonio, President of the ERA Brokers of New Jersey and Broker/Owner of ERA American Dream Realtors, has seen little or no change in buyers throughout this year. “Houses in the mid-priced range continue to go quickly. Days on Market (a real estate industry statistic) are a little longer for the higher-end priced homes.”

“Both buyers and sellers benefit from these historically low mortgage interest rates,” added Mr. Giannantonio. “Buyers are able to purchase more home with the same amount of money. For sellers, the steady demand for housing means that homes are often sold during or before an Open House is held, at or above, asking price.”

For more information on current interest rates, contact your local ERA office or visit ERANJ.com. ERA is a global leader in the residential real estate industry with more than 30 years of experience in developing consumer-oriented products and services. The ERA Real Estate network includes more than 28,000 brokers and sales associates throughout the United States and 30 other countries and territories.

( July 19, 2004 ) The ERA Brokers of New Jersey have announced their decision to continue sponsoring the pre-licensing real estate course at select schools throughout New Jersey . Nine years ago, the ERA Brokers launched its real estate school sponsorship program with the goal of providing convenient and affordable classes for individuals interested in pursuing a career in real estate.

Due to the success of the program, the ERA Brokers have elected to continue its sponsorship program. Most real estate schools charge fees ranging from $350-$400 per student to attend the 75-hour pre-licensing course. Individuals attending an ERA-sponsored real estate school, pay only $179, significantly less for the same course.

Five independent real estate schools were selected by the ERA Brokers for its sponsorship program. In order to participate, all five schools had to meet strict performance criteria -- high test results, frequent classes and positive feedback from students. Classes are held throughout New Jersey in locations including: American School of Business in Lodi , Jersey City , Fairfield , Parsippany, Sparta , Bedminster, North Brunswick and Freehold; The Real Estate School in Edison and Brick; Kovats in Wayne, Maywood and the Paramus area; Professional School of Business in Millburn and Parsippany; and, Ocean School of Real Estate in Bricktown.

To become a licensed real estate agent, an individual must successfully complete the

75-hour pre-licensing course, pass the New Jersey real estate exam and be sponsored by a licensed real estate broker in order to activate their license.

“The ERA brokers continue to financially support the pre-licensing course, making it more affordable for individuals interested in becoming sales associates, because our hope is that these future agents will return and work with our companies after they earn their real estate license,” according to John Sharp, Owner/Partner, ERA Designs for Living. “Before making a career change or a commitment to attend real estate school, individuals should contact and meet with their local ERA broker in order to learn firsthand about a real estate career, the criteria for success, income potential and more.” advises Mr. Sharp.

For more information on ERA’s real estate school sponsorship program, contact your local ERA office or visit ERANJ.com. ERA is a global leader in the residential real estate industry with more than 30 years of experience in developing consumer-oriented products and services. The ERA Real Estate network includes more than 28,000 brokers and sales associates throughout the United States and 30 other countries and territories.

( June 30, 2004 ) When is the best time to list a house for sale? What should I do to make my house show better? When I start visiting homes, what should I be looking for the first time through? What does a home inspector do? These questions are just a small sample of the ninety most frequently asked questions which are included in ERA’s real estate reference book entitled ANSWERS.

Home buyers and sellers have many concerns and needs before beginning the real estate process. The ANSWERS book is based on the questions which ERA professionals hear most frequently, and includes straight answers, inside tips, and explanations which can help sellers and prospective buyers feel more comfortable and confident about home buying and selling decisions.

ERA recently released an updated version of its popular ANSWERS book which is available both online at ERANJ.com and in book form from your local ERA office. ANSWERS is divided into four topic areas – Selling, Buying, Financing and Maintenance – and also includes helpful worksheets and a glossary of terms.

The Selling section alone contains more than thirty relevant questions and answers about market conditions, pricing your house, home improvements, home warranties, marketing your home and working with a real estate professional.

ERA developed and includes its “Show and Sell” Checklist, which offers specific ideas for sellers to improve a buyer’s first impression of their house. Sellers can benefit from “Five Days to a Smooth Closing and Move” which is a day-by-day checklist of things they should do during the final week before closing. For buyers, there is an “Inspection Checklist” and an overview of mortgages in addition to other tools.

“The ANSWERS book fills a genuine need for this type of information,” according to

Hank Nalbandian, Broker/Owner of ERA Nalbandian Realty. “Today’s marketplace is both fast-paced and can be confusing for those new to real estate. ANSWERS features a comprehensive selection of topics as well as charts and worksheets to help consumers navigate the home buying and selling process.”

Visit www.ERANJ.com to view the ANSWERS book online or to locate an office in your area. ERA is a global leader in the residential real estate industry with more than 30 years of experience in developing consumer-oriented products and services. The ERA Real Estate network includes more than 28,000 brokers and sales associates throughout the United States and 30 other countries and territories.

( June 17, 2004 ) Providing top-notch service is essential to succeeding as a real estate professional, yet today’s real estate agents have such demanding work schedules that it leaves them little time to attend training programs which can teach important skills. To meet this challenge, ERA Real Estate, the technology leader in the real estate industry, developed the eCampus online training center.

With ERA eCampus, agents can take courses from the comfort of their home or office – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. More than 150 courses are offered via eCampus including ERA’s Acceleration, TOP GUN Academy , Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES) and many more.

ERA’s Acceleration course teaches marketing, selling, negotiating, closing and presentation skills as well as product and services knowledge, skills which are required of an ERA sales professional. TOP GUN Academy , ERA’s advanced agent training program, focuses on prospecting, presentations and specialized markets. Agents who take this course gain a better understanding of the entire process needed to be a top associate. With the explosion of growth in the senior market, agents are eager to take the Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES) training class to learn how to serve the needs of this unique market. The SRES course helps agents prepare for the financial, emotional and investment-related issues specific to this group.

The format of eCampus classes range from live instructors online to self study programs where participants work at their own pace. Agents are able to participate in a "virtual" class from anywhere Internet access is available. After logging in to the class, the computer screen is then controlled by the instructor who takes the class through a presentation. Participants also dial into a telephone conference call which allows the class to have audio interaction.

According to Tom Crivello, Broker/Owner, ERA Statewide Realty, “With eCampus, you don’t have to take time out of your busy work schedule to get the training that you need. Many associates in our office regularly take the online courses and are very enthusiastic about the program.”

Kim Marks, an ERA Statewide sale associate, says that she is hooked on the eCampus courses. “Once I got started, I wanted to continue taking classes. So far, I have taken SRES, Leaders EDG, and the TOP GUN Academy class many times.” The convenience of sitting in your home or office, and not having to travel far to take a class, cannot be overstated. “With eCampus, I can take clients out in the morning, take a class in the middle of the day, and still be in the office to do my work and take calls as needed,” added Ms. Marks.

For more information on ERA’s training programs, contact your local ERA office which can be found by visiting www.eranj.com. ERA is a global leader in the residential real estate industry with more than 30 years of experience in developing consumer-oriented products and services. The ERA Real Estate network includes more than 28,000 brokers and sales associates throughout the United States and 30 other countries and territories.

ERA To Hold First of Three Career Expos in New Jersey

( May 26, 2004 ) The ERA Brokers of New Jersey announced that it will be holding the first of three Career Expos on Thursday, June 10, from 7 pm to 9 pm , at the Victorian Manor in Edison . More than 40 ERA offices throughout New Jersey are represented by the ERA Brokers of NJ, a group which meets regularly to discuss industry issues and pools their resources in order to acquire new technology tools, provide top rated training programs and collectively raise significant funds for the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

“Most career fairs are focused on introducing attendees to a new profession. Our goal for the ERA Career Expo is twofold – to meet dynamic people interested in developing a new career in real estate as well as to introduce our company, and our exclusive products and services, to experienced agents,” said Ken Steidel, Broker/Manager, ERA Advantage Realty. “Both new and experienced agents who are interested in learning more about a career with ERA will benefit from attending this event.”

The evening will begin with brief presentations on ERA’s training, technology, mortgage and marketing programs. ERA Franchise National Training Manager Melody Bohrer will describe the company’s training programs and unique ERA Seller Security Plan. William Cogan, Vice- President of Interactive Marketing, will give an overview of the company’s cutting-edge technology. Matthew Guiro of ERA Mortgage, the sixth largest retail mortgage originator in the country, will explain the full range of programs and competitive rates which are available to ERA customers. In addition, Angela McNiece, Director of Integrated Marketing, will explain the value added ERA Select Services program which provides cost effective products and services to help ERA agents manage their real estate needs and increase their customer loyalty.

Rounding out the presenters will be Ed Davies of the American School of Business, a licensed real estate school with several convenient locations throughout the state, who will explain how to get a real estate license and what is involved for those attendees not yet licensed. For participants interested in beginning a real estate career, Mr. Davies will have registration materials available on-site.

Attendees will have an opportunity to walk from table to table to ask questions and for private conversations with brokers and speakers about the products and services available only to ERA associates. “This is the first of three Career Expo events which the ERA Brokers of NJ will be offering,” according to Mr. Steidel. “We expect to draw attendees from Union , Middlesex, Monmouth, Mercer and Somerset counties for this first event due to its central location within the state. In the fall, we will hold two more Career Expos, one in northern and the other in southern New Jersey .”

For more information or to register for the ERA Career Expo being held June 10, visit www.eranj.com/careerexpo.htm or call (732)388-9144. Directions to the Victorian Manor are also available at this website. ERA is a global leader in the residential real estate industry with more than 30 years of experience in developing consumer-oriented products and services. The ERA Real Estate network includes more than 28,000 brokers and sales associates throughout the United States and 30 other countries and territories.

ERA Offices Plan Events for “Day in May for MDA”

Annual fundraising campaign benefits Muscular Dystrophy Association

( May 15, 2004 ) While May is traditionally considered one of the busiest months of the year in the residential real estate market, it is also one of the most active and rewarding times of the year for ERA brokers and sales associates who volunteer their time to raise funds for the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA).

Every year, ERA offices in New Jersey and nationwide participate in the “Day in May for MDA” drive in which local ERA offices sponsor events to raise much needed funds for MDA during the month of May or soon after. Last year, the ERA Brokers of New Jersey raised $21,300 through events such as the ERA/MDA Great Walk, “A Day at the Races,” dinner dances, yard sales, golf tournaments and more.

Due to the great success of these events, many of them are being held again this year. On Thursday, May 13, ERA Advantage Realty sponsored “A Day at the Races” at Freehold Raceway. “We run this event because we truly believe in the important work of MDA. Every contribution collected is a step toward helping researchers to find a cure,” stated Carol Stevenson, Broker/Owner, ERA Advantage Realty.

During this event, guests enjoyed a panoramic view of the races, a buffet luncheon, a Silent Auction and a 50/50 raffle, all of which benefit MDA. The gifts for the auction were donated by local businesses, real estate-related companies and other service providers. “It was a fun day, and we raised $3,500, a substantial amount of money for a very good cause,” added Ms. Stevenson.

On June 9, ERA Queen City Realty will be holding its annual Dinner Dance and Silent Auction at Pantagis Renaissance Restaurant in Scotch Plains . The proceeds from this event will be donated to MDA. “Our company has been holding a dinner dance to benefit MDA since I attended my first ERA convention 23 years ago and met the children affected by neuromuscular diseases – they really touched me,” stated Lydia Flagg, Broker/Owner of ERA Queen City Realty. “The agents in our office plan this event, which last year raised $4,000 for MDA. This year, our goal is to reach $5,000, which is why we have opened ticket sales to the public. Everyone is invited to join us for an evening of dinner, dancing and fun for a very worthy cause.”

Funds raised for MDA by ERA affiliates will be presented at the national MDA Jerry Lewis Labor Day Telethon held in September. Over the past 27 years, ERA brokers and associates have helped to raise more than $30 million for MDA. For more information about ERA’s fundraising efforts for MDA, contact your local ERA office which can be found by visiting www.ERANJ.com. ERA is a global leader in the residential real estate industry with more than 30 years of experience in developing consumer-oriented products and services. The ERA Real Estate network includes more than 28,000 brokers and sales associates throughout the United States and 30 other countries and territories.

(April 28, 2004 ) With more than 500 agents, brokers and guests in attendance, the ERA Brokers of New Jersey honored its top agents at the 9^th Annual ERA Awards Dinner held on April 26 at Mayfair Farms in West Orange .

According to Ron Darby, Chairman of Awards and Recognition for the ERA Brokers of NJ and Broker/Owner of ERA Justin Realty, “Within the ERA organization, awards and recognition give us the opportunity to show our support for the extraordinary accomplishments of our associates. Equally important, awards establish a standard to which all sales associates can aspire.”

When it came time to present the awards, Mr. Darby was joined by ERA Franchise System’s Brenda Casserly, President and Chief Operating Officer, Dave Kovalsky, Regional Vice-President, Jack Kornfeind, Senior Vice-President of Service Operations and Stephanie Reyna, Customer Service Team Director. “While the awards dinner is always an exciting evening, this year, having ERA’s president and other senior management there to help us recognize the contributions of our sales associates, really energized the event,” stated Mr. Darby.

The first awards to be presented honored the nearly 200 ERA agents who achieved the highly prestigious New Jersey Association of Realtors Circle of Excellence Sales Award. This program recognizes Realtors and Realtor Associates who have achieved between $3 million - $25 million in sold/closed transactions as well as the required number of units (a listing or sale). Agents who have demonstrated this outstanding sales achievement earn the Bronze, Silver, Gold or Platinum level award, the latter of which was presented to Paul Johannesen of ERA Gallo and DeCroce.

In addition to having a sales associate from her office recognized for achieving the elite Platinum level Circle of Excellence Sales Award, Suzanne Krouse, Manager of ERA Gallo and DeCroce, was honored for her commitment and hard work as Chairman of the ERA Brokers of NJ Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) Committee for the past five years. Both Ms. Casserly and Mr. Darby spoke about Ms. Krouse’s great success in helping to raise both public awareness of and funds for MDA through the many community events she has organized throughout the years.

“One of the highlights of the evening was when each ERA office recognized the tireless efforts of its top agents in four award categories,” reported Mr. Darby. Top Producer of the Year was presented to the agent with the highest production in sales, listings or a combination of both. Rookie of the Year recognized a new agent in each office who achieved remarkable success. The Most Improved Agent was presented to an associate who had worked hard and faced challenges in achieving success. Going the Extra Distance was given to an agent who had gone beyond the norm to help his or her colleagues. “Exceeding the expectations of buyers and sellers is our goal, and our associates should be commended for a job well done,” added Mr. Darby.

For more information about ERA Real Estate, contact your local ERA office which can be found by visiting www.ERANJ.com. ERA is a global leader in the residential real estate industry with more than 30 years of experience in developing consumer-oriented products and services. The ERA Real Estate network includes more than 28,000 brokers and sales associates throughout the United States and 30 other countries and territories.

Guaranteed Sale and Equity Advance Program Increase Buyer Pool

( April 15, 2004 ) Local ERA brokers and agents are excited about the company’s enhancements to its unique Sellers Security® Plan. Changes made to the program are expected to dramatically increase the number of qualified buyers for ERA listings and will allow customers to try out the program without committing to a fee.

The new Sellers Security Plan (SSP) is valuable to sellers, and is an important prospecting and listing tool for ERA agents. The plan is comprised of three parts - a five-point marketing plan, a guaranteed sale, and an equity advance program.

Sellers who need to purchase another home, but are unable to because their current home is not sold, can benefit from this program in several ways. First, the plan provides a guaranteed sale and closing date for their current home, which solves the contingency sale problem. Second, ERA will continue to market the home for the full listing cycle in order to maximize the selling price. Lastly, the Equity Advance Program can provide sellers with up to $150,000 to use for a down payment and closing costs on their new home and for up to four house payments on their existing home.

Prospective buyers of ERA listings can also take advantage of the Sellers Security Plan. The program offers these potential buyers a guaranteed sale price and closing date for their current home in addition to an equity advance for the down payment on their new home. The end result is an increase in the pool of buyers for all ERA listings. According to Paul Giannantonio, President of the ERA Brokers of New Jersey and Broker/Owner, ERA American Dream Realtors, “While other real estate companies wait for the right buyer for their listings, ERA agents are able to create the right buyer using the Sellers Security Plan. It is a different approach to getting our property listings sold.”

“The new Sellers Security Plan is also more customer-friendly. Our clients pay no fee for the plan unless ERA Real Estate purchases their property or provides them with an equity advance. There really is no downside to this plan because even if a seller accepts ERA’s offer, and then subsequently the property is sold to a third party prior to the closing with ERA, there is still no fee charged,” added Mr. Giannantonio.

For more information on the ERA Sellers Security Plan, contact your local ERA office which can be found by visiting www.ERANJ.com. ERA is a global leader in the residential real estate industry with more than 30 years of experience in developing consumer-oriented products and services. The ERA Real Estate network includes more than 28,000 brokers and sales associates throughout the United States and 30 other countries and territories.

( March 31, 2004 ) ERA associates from New Jersey and worldwide returned recently from the company’s annual international business conference armed with innovative new programs and highly motivated for the spring real estate market.

During the three-day International Business Conference (IBC), held February 26-29 in Las Vegas, 3,700 brokers, managers and sales associates participated in training courses, workshops and networking events in addition to learning from motivational speaker “Dr. Phil” McGraw and inspirational teacher Erin Gruwell.

With the theme of the conference being “ERA . . . On the Move,” the company unveiled its all-new consumer website, ERA.com, and announced major enhancements to its unique ERA® Sellers Security® Plan. According to Paul Giannantonio, President of the ERA Brokers of New Jersey and Broker/Owner, ERA American Dream Realtors, “The company’s new website now includes enhanced listing pages, customizable features for each user, a refined property search system and an improved navigation system.”

Mr. Giannantonio enthusiastically reported that the new ERA® Sellers Security® Plan is unparalleled in the marketplace. “The new plan gives homesellers access to a wider pool of buyers. In addition to cash buyers and those whose current home is sold and ready to close, the Sellers Security Plan helps turn interested buyers (who have a current home to sell) into highly qualified buyers for an ERA listing.” In addition, the revised plan allows customers to try the program without committing to a fee at the start, making it an even more attractive program for homesellers.

This year's meeting also featured exciting and inspiring keynote speakers. In his characteristic “tell-it-like-it-is” motivational style, Dr. Phillip C. McGraw, known to millions of Americans as "Dr. Phil," spoke about the common and key traits of successful people. California Teacher of the Year Erin Gruwell truly moved the audience when she discussed how she opened the minds of 150 inner city students, helping them to understand each other, value education and see a future for themselves.

The ERA Leadership Team Awards Program honored top sales associates, brokers, teams and offices for achieving extraordinary results and for meeting or exceeding the criteria for national recognition. Among the ERA Brokers of New Jersey, ERA Advantage Realty was recognized for being part of the elite President’s Circle Gold Level, as a top 50 ERA company in terms of production. In total, seventeen ERA New Jersey companies were honored for being part of the President’s Circle, which is comprised of the top 50, 100 and 200 companies, and many celebrated milestone anniversaries with ERA Real Estate. ERA Field Crest Realty was honored as a top finalist for the Jim Jackson Memorial Award, named for the late founder and president

of ERA, and awarded to those offices that exemplify customer service as measured by both productivity and customer satisfaction.

ERA Justin Realty Company, led by Ron Darby, Broker/Owner, was the recipient of many honors at the conference. “In addition to achieving the top 100 President’s Circle Silver Level, our office was recognized for our 20^th anniversary with ERA, and received the Commitment to Excellence Award, an honor given to only 12 companies out of more than 2,500 worldwide.” The prestigious Commitment to Excellence Award is presented to companies with a multi-faceted dedication to the needs of their customers, their community and the ERA® brand, as expressed by many factors.

For more information on ERA programs, contact your local ERA office which can be found by visiting www.ERANJ.com. ERA is a global leader in the residential real estate industry with more than 30 years of experience in developing consumer-oriented products and services. The ERA Real Estate network includes more than 28,000 brokers and sales associates throughout the United States and 30 other countries and territories.