NEW JERSEY
REALTOR
®
January/February 2024: VOLUME 10 ISSUE 1
MEET YOUR 2024 LEADERSHIP TEAM Thank You for Your RPAC Support in 2023 Pages 7-9
Meet Acting Commissioner Justin Zimmerman Pages 26-27
NJREALTOR.COM
FIRST-TIME HOMEBUYERS 15K DPA For New Jersey residents looking to buy their first home, saving enough money for a down payment often comes second to more immediate costs of living – student loans, childcare, rent, insurance, and additional expenses. When families are ready to purchase their new home, the New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency can help.
FIRST-TIME HOMEBUYER DOWN PAYMENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM NJHMFA’s Down Payment Assistance program provides up to $15,000 in assistance to eligible first-time homebuyers for down payment and closing costs, which is forgiven after five years if the borrower doesn’t sell the home, refinance or default on their mortgage. Contact Jesse Crawford @ jcrawford@njhmfa.gov to learn more about this opportunity for homeownership.
njhousing.gov
THERE ARE THOUSANDS
OF DOORS IN YOUR
MARKET. LET’S OPEN MORE OF THEM
TOGETHER. Better tools. Live support. More data.
There are no overnight successes in real estate. You need to build your process to grow your business over time. Let’s do it together. Remine Pro software helps you target new clients, while zipFormMLS-Connect® software helps you write contracts faster. You can even create incredible presentations with the Cloud CMA program. These tools are included free with membership. Real estate is a competition. Let’s go platinum this year. To get started, become a member at newjerseymls.com/join.
We got you.
12
NEW JERSEY REALTOR® A publication of New Jersey Realtors®
10 Hamilton Avenue Trenton, NJ 08611 Phone: 609-341-7100 njrealtor.com
15
Jarrod C. Grasso, RCE Chief Executive Officer PUBLIC RELATIONS AND MARKETING DEPARTMENT Colleen King Oliver
Director of Public Relations & Marketing | editor@njrealtor.com
Erin McFeeters
Deputy Director of Public Relations & Marketing
Nicole O’Rourke
Communications Coordinator
Lisa Fant
Communications Coordinator
CONTENTS January/February 2024
4 President’s View:
Continue to Advocate for Pro-Consumer Markets
2024 OFFICERS Gloria Monks
President
Kathy Morin
President-Elect
Sue La Rue
First Vice President
Jairo Rodriguez
Treasurer
18 20
5 CEO’s Desk:
Emphasizing the Value of Realtors®
ADVERTISING SALES
21
Laura Lemos | 973-668-2449
6 Important Dates & Deadlines
laura@boja.com DESIGN Rebecca Ryan McQuigg | Encompass Media Group rebecca@encompasspubs.com
22
7 Legislative Update:
Thanks for Your RPAC Support in 2023!
New Jersey Realtors® provides legal and legislative updates as well as information on a variety of real estate related topics solely for the use of its members.
24
Due to the wide range of issues affecting its members, NJ Realtors® publishes information concerning those issues that NJ Realtors®, in its sole discretion, deems the most important for its members.
10 Introducing Your 2024
agents of NJ Realtor® are the sole responsibility of their author. NJ Realtors® disclaims any liability or
Lafayette
such articles and/or advertisements contain legal advice or standards, NJ Realtors® recommends that NJ Realtors® seek legal counsel with regard to any article.
Recap
28
New Jersey Realtor , publication number 13260, ISSN Member subscriptions allocated annually from annual dues: $3. Non-member annual subscription: $10. Known office of publication: 10 Hamilton Avenue, Trenton, NJ 08611. Periodicals postage paid at Trenton, NJ 08611 and at additional mailing offices.
2023 Good Neighbor Award Winners
Q&A with Karen DeMarco 2023 National Association of Realtors® Good Neighbor Award Recipient
Meet the Decision Maker: Acting Commissioner Justin Zimmerman
14 Realtors® 2023 Triple Play
®
number 00285919. Published bi-monthly each year.
2023 Quarter Century Club & Realtor® Emeritus Recipients
26
12 Town Spotlight:
responsibility for their content or accuracy. Where
specific situation to which they may seek to apply the
2023 Realtor® of the Year & Realtor®-Associate of the Year
Leadership Team
The content and accuracy of all articles and/or advertisements by persons not employed by or
Transaction Roadmap
16
POSTMASTER: Send address change to Editor, 10
Tech Column: Top 5 Apps Every Realtor® Should Have in 2024
29
A Look Back at Realtor®-Palooza 2023 Board/Association News
Hamilton Avenue, Trenton, NJ 08611.
NJRealtors
@NJ_Realtors
2 | NEW JERSEY REALTOR® | January/February 2024
@njrealtors
NJRealtors
NJ Realtors
editor@njrealtor.com
Show commitment and value to buyer-clients with the Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR ®) designation.
NEW JERSEY REALTOR® | January/February 2024 | 3
PRESIDENT’S VIEW
Continue to Advocate for Pro-Consumer Markets BY GLORIA MONKS
F
or more than a century, New Jersey Realtors® has been the voice for real estate in New Jersey, advocating for private property rights and assisting Realtors® in achieving success in their businesses. I am humbled to be President of such an incredible organization. I have been working in the real estate industry for over 30 years, licensed for 18 of them, and I’ve learned through the ups and downs of the market that we must support one another. As a managing broker, serving and supporting my agents gave me such happiness, and the ability to assist agents in helping New Jerseyans achieve homeownership moved me. Not only did I want to give back, but I needed to give back.
“ I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” – Maya Angelou Although I spent my career serving in New Jersey, I grew up in New York—living with my extended family. We were so close that I never saw them as extended family, but rather immediate family. Their support played a crucial role in my upbringing and had a profound impact on my life.
4 | NEW JERSEY REALTOR ® | January/February 2024
Family support shapes our lives. It provides love, a sense of belonging, and a nurturing environment that contributes to our personal growth and well-being. This year, I want our Realtor® family to come together, to lean on one another, and be thought leaders. We will face outside challenges in the coming years, but we will get through it together, one day at a time. With New Jersey Realtors® in our corner, we will stay up to date with industry issues, stay in compliance with real estate regulations, stay sharp in the field with top continuing education classes, abide by the Code of Ethics, and remain ethical in our business practice. With the most comprehensive housing market data in the state, we know the market better than anyone else. New Jersey Realtors® truly is our key to success. I encourage you all to hone in on the Realtor® difference. Focus on being an educational resource for clients and highlight to the public that only Realtors® possess the know-how and expertise to navigate any market. Emphasize to colleagues that Realtor® membership matters and emphasize our knowledge of the communities we live and work in, as we defend pro-consumer practices in the local MLS broker marketplaces. We want consumers to continue to thrive in our local markets.
FROM THE CEO’S DESK
Emphasizing the Value of Realtors®
O
Antitrust Lawsuit Webinar Recording Deep dive into everything you should know about the antitrust lawsuit with myself, New Jersey Realtors® Chief Counsel
ur advocacy efforts here in New Jersey have shaped the real estate industry, moved the industry forward, and helped consumers achieve homeownership while protecting the home buying and selling process. We work each and every day to ensure Realtors® are supported in their businesses so they can continue to put their clients’ needs above all else, abiding by the National Association of Realtors® Code of Ethics.
Barry Goodman, and General Counsel Yuliya Tedeschi. We summarize what happened in the past few months and answered live audience questions. Visit the educational page njrealtor.com/antitrust-lawsuit to watch the recording.
To maintain Realtor® membership, Realtors® must be a member of their local, state, and national association. This Three-Way Agreement empowers our organization to use its combined resources to have a unified, powerful voice in shaping public policy and advancing the industry. The result is transparent and competitive marketplaces, satisfied clients, and stronger communities.
Consumer Advertising Campaign Each year, we allocate funds to educate consumers and promote the value of using a Realtor® to buy, sell, or rent a home in the Garden State. This year is no different as we continue to highlight the Realtor® difference and inform consumers about everything a Realtor® does to help their clients over the course of the transaction.
In the antitrust lawsuit of Burnett v. the National Association of Realtors® et al., the jury found NAR and other defendants liable. The fight is far from over, and a definitive ruling is not imminent. While NAR works to file motions and other procedural actions in Missouri, ultimately planning to file an appeal, here’s what we’re doing to continue to support Realtor® businesses and protect consumers.
Realtor® Member Advertising Campaign This year, we repurposed funds to highlight all New Jersey Realtors® has to offer its Realtor® members and why membership matters. From providing the leading transaction software, advocating for Realtor® businesses, having the most comprehensive housing market data in the state, and so much more—New Jersey Realtors® is your key to success. Learn more about your membership benefits at njrealtor.com/key.
Antitrust Lawsuit Educational Resources With misinformation in the news, we compiled everything you need to know about the Burnett case, along with copycat lawsuits in other states, so you can feel confident discussing commission with your clients and ensuring them that as a Realtor®, you will put their needs above all else. For resources and FAQ’s, visit njrealtor.com/antitrust-lawsuit.
NEW JERSEY REALTOR® | January/February 2024 | 5
I M P O R TA N T D AT E S & D E A D L I N E S
JANUARY
FEBRUARY
1 NJ Realtors Office
Black History Month
Women’s History Month
2 Groundhog Day
1 10 April Fools’ Day Daylight Saving Time Begins
13 Mardi Gras
17 St. Patrick’s Day
9 Eid al-Fitr
14 Ash Wednesday
24-25 Purim
15 Tax Day
14 Valentine’s Day
25 Holi
22 Passover
19 NJ Realtors Office
29 Good Friday
22 Earth Day
®
Closed—New Year’s Day
8 New Jersey Realtors
®
Circle of Excellence Sales Award® deadline at 5 p.m. EST
9 Board of Directors Meeting
15 NJ Realtors Office ®
Closed—Martin Luther King Jr. Day
®
MARCH
Closed—Presidents’ Day
APRIL Fair Housing Month
31 Easter Sunday
N E W J E R S E Y L E G I S L AT I V E B I L L S A799 – Timberlake (D34), Quijano (D20)/S2200 – Pennacchio (R26), Smith (D17) Allows gross income tax deduction for amounts paid for removal of lead, asbestos, sodium chloride and other contaminants from taxpayer’s property. New Jersey Realtors® Position:
STRONG SUPPORT
We strongly support this bill to provide a tax deduction to pay for certain types of remediation on a person’s home rather than having a time-of-sale requirement instituted mandating remediation. Bill History: 1/11/2022 – Introduced in Assembly and referred to Assembly Community Development and Affairs Committee 3/7/2022 – Introduced Senate and referred to Senate Environment and Energy Committee 3/9/2023 – Reported out of Senate Committee and referred to Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee
6 | NEW JERSEY REALTOR ® | January/February 2024
A2443 – McGuckin (R10), Catalano (R10)
A2455 – Gove (R9), Rumpf (R9)/S964 – Connors (R9), O’Scanlon (R13)
Requires insurers that sell flood insurance to provide certain policyholders with certain information.
Permits conversion of fines for violations of certain municipal ordinances into tax liens.
New Jersey Realtors® Position:
MONITOR
SUPPORT
We support this bill so New Jersey homeowners with flood insurance policies are provided with information relating to what specifically their policies cover and the claims process should they have flood damage to their properties Bill History: 2/14/2022 – Introduced in Assembly and referred to Assembly Financial Institutions and Insurance Committee
New Jersey Realtors® Position:
We strongly oppose this bill over concerns that the tax liens which would be applied under it could lead to delays at closing when such a property is being sold and that the lien could transfer to the new owner when a property is sold. Bill History: 1/31/2022 – Introduced in Senate and referred to Senate Community and Urban Affairs Committee 2/14/2022 – Introduced in Assembly and referred to Assembly State and Local Government Committee 10/27/2022 – Reported out of Senate committee with amendments and referred to Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee
L E G I S L AT I V E U P D AT E
Thank You for Your RPAC Support in 2023! RPAC NAR HALL OF FAME
RPAC NJ REALTORS® HALL OF FAME
$75,000 Level Christina P. Clemans
Gold Level (Over $10,000) Janet Barton Terry Brannin Roxanne Daiuto David DePaola Genette Falk Kenneth Freeman Patricia Gray Hendricks Brian Groetsch Kathleen Ann Houston Edith Josephson Ellen W. Kale Jorge Ledesma Alireza Memar NEXUS Association of Realtors® Gloria Nilson Ocean City Board of Realtors® Michael Oppler Bowen Pak Michael Pennisi Jeanine Pescatore Heather Robillard Jairo Rodriguez Christine Rothwell Robert Southwick Marc Stein Sussex County Association of Realtors® John Terebey, Jr. Diane Traverso TREND MLS Kim Ward Bacso Randolph Wine Ronald Woods
$50,000 Level Christina J. Banasiak Mary Davis Allan H. Dechert Drew S. Fishman Jarrod C. Grasso William J. Hanley Randy L. Ketive Charles S. Oppler Angela Sicoli Robert White $25,000 Level Judy N. Appleby Eric Birchler Eugenia K. Bonilla Nelson Chen Rosanne L. Citta Bonnie J. Fitzgerald William Flagg Tg Glazer Ilene Horowitz Bryan Hutchinson Rose LaPira Cindy L. Marsh Tichy Lynne Mortimer Robert Oppenheimer Christian Schlueter Bruce S. Shapiro Carol J. Tangorra Douglas M. Tomson Diane Turton Edward Ward Gloria Woodward
Platinum Level (Over $15,000) Graeme Atkinson Gene Azzalina
Annekee Brahver-Keely Erin Brown Mary Burke Cape May County Association of Realtors®, Inc. Cape May County MLS Laura Castella Central Jersey MLS Sherry Chris CORE Association of Realtors® Cumberland County Board of Realtors® James J. Elek David Fialk Marlyn Friedberg Gloucester Salem Counties Board of Realtors® Barry S. Goodman Greater Bergen Realtors® James W. Joeriman Jeffrey A. Jones Scott Lauri Roger Love Nick Manis Gloria Monks
Monmouth Ocean Regional Realtors® Kathleen Morin New Jersey MLS New Jersey Realtors® NEXUS Association of Realtors® North Central Jersey Association of Realtors® Andrea Schlosser Ann Schuld Gloria Siciliano Wendy Smith Diane Streichert John Zennario
PRESIDENT’S CIRCLE Matthew Amato Christina J. Banasiak Colleen Camillo Laura Castella Christina P. Clemans Mary Davis Allan H. Dechert Nicola Esposito
RPAC
OF NEW JERSEY
Fundraising total as of December, 18, 2023
2023 RPAC Goal: $1,110,000
2023 RPAC Dollars Raised:
$1,095,298 99% of goal
NEW JERSEY REALTOR® | January/February 2024 | 7
L E G I S L AT I V E U P D AT E Kenneth Freeman Jarrod C. Grasso William J. Hanley Ilene F. Horowitz Bryan Hutchinson Randy L. Ketive Yodimila Tan Langan Scott Lauri Nick Manis Gloria Monks Kathleen Morin Lynne Mortimer Mary Nuziale Charles S. Oppler Steven Pagan Jeanine Pescatore Brenda Richmond Jairo Rodriguez Gloria Siciliano Angela Sicoli Wendy Smith Carol J. Tangorra Douglas M. Tomson Diane Traverso
MAJOR INVESTORS Platinum Diamond ‘R’ New Jersey Realtors® Platinum ‘R’ Monmouth Ocean Regional Realtors® New Jersey MLS North Central Jersey Association of Realtors® Sustaining Platinum ‘R’ Lynne Mortimer * Golden ‘R’ Nicola Esposito * Central Jersey MLS Greater Bergen Realtors® Wendy M. Smith * Sustaining Golden ‘R’ Christina J. Banasiak * Eugenia K. Bonilla Laura Castella * Nelson Chen Christina P. Clemans *
Mary Davis * Allan H. Dechert * Drew S. Fishman Jarrod C. Grasso * William J. Hanley * Ilene F. Horowitz * Bryan Hutchinson * Randy L. Ketive * Scott Lauri * Nick Manis * Gloria A. Monks * Kathleen Morin * Mary M. Nuziale * Charles S. Oppler * Bruce S. Shapiro Angela Sicoli * Carol J. Tangorra * Robert White Crystal ‘R’ Matthew Amato Mary Burke Cape May County MLS Cumberland County Board of Realtors® James W. Joeriman Brenda H. McIntyre Gloria V. Siciliano * Marc Stein Sustaining Crystal ‘R’ Jeanine Pescatore * Jairo Rodriguez * Teresa Trigas-Pfefferle 1st Time Sterling ‘R’ Maria Baratta Bonnie Borghi Yodimila Tan Langan * Stella Lemberg Weijia Luo Rachel Mammele Maureen Mamunes Mary Ann Mason Jo-Anne Mitchell David Ralic 2nd Time Sterling ‘R’ Teresa M. Barba Mary Bianchi Melissa M. Florance-Lynch
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Robert T. Funabashi Corinne A. Geiger Colleen King Oliver Robert N. Lopez Arthur Napolitano Steven Pagan * Jeanette Schlapfer Walter A. Smolenski William Thompson David L. Wyrsch 3rd Time Sterling ‘R’ Atlantic City & County Board of Realtors® Nicole Banbor Carolyn Bardach Dawn Bricker Barry Bruno Colleen Camillo * Michele Chiles-Hickman Christopher Coccia Manuel Couto Maria Dargan Teresa DeLorenzo Sarah M. Drennan Robert J. Durso Maria “Mia” Carina Forsberg-Villon Frank D. Glaush Felix Greco Marcia G. Klioze Susan LaRue Ya Yuan Lien Rosemarie McGeehan Mary Mitchell Judith A. Moriarty Susanna Philippoussis Patricia Salzer Beam 4th Time Sterling ‘R’ Gene Amsel Valerie Archer Belardo Catherine Best Kristen DeLeo Larry J. DePalma Valerie A. Dickson NEXUS Association of Realtors® Eileen O’Driscoll Brenda A. Richmond * Colin A. Somerville
5th Time Sterling ‘R’ Angela B. Bonica-Ponticelli Susan Giacchi Harold Maxwell Sussex County Association of Realtors® 6th Time Sterling ‘R’ Kenneth R. Freeman * William F. Gilsenan Robert A. Russo Nicole Sabarese Samy B. Sabbagh * South Jersey Shore Regional MLS 7th Time Sterling ‘R’ Lorraine Colavito Daniel Corrigan Nina Eizikovitz Michele Kolsky Assatly Judith F. Mizzone Gloucester Salem Counties Board of Realtors® 8th Time Sterling ‘R’ Maritza Aleman Dennis S. DeCarlo 9th Time Sterling ‘R’ David DePaola Patricia Gray Hendricks Kathleen Ann Houston Alireza Memar Christine Lynn Rothwell Diane Traverso * Zohar Zamir 10th Time Sterling ‘R’ Jorge Ledesma Christian Schlueter John A. Zennario 11th Time Sterling ‘R’ Terry M. Brannin 12th Time Sterling ‘R’ Brian Groetsch, Jr. Jeffrey A. Jones
L E G I S L AT I V E U P D AT E Ocean City Board of Realtors® Randolph L. Wine 13th Time Sterling ‘R’ Graeme W. Atkinson William Flagg Robert L. Oppenheimer Bowen Pak Ronald L. Woods 14th Time Sterling ‘R’ Erin Brown Michael Oppler Douglas M. Tomson * 15th Time Sterling ‘R’ Cape May County Association of Realtors®, Inc. 17th Time Sterling ‘R’ Barry S. Goodman CORE Association of Realtors® 18th Time Sterling ‘R’ Annekee Brahver-Keely 19th Time Sterling ‘R’ Rose LaPira 23rd Time Sterling ‘R’ Eric J. Birchler 27th Time Sterling ‘R’ Bonnie Fitzgerald
*Indicates President’s Circle Member
CAPITOL CLUB ($250 to $499) Jennifer Alexander Edward An
Bernadette Barnett Joseph Baumann Dorothy Bellas Suzanne Biga Jordan Black Norma Bonilla Nancy Bunin Leon Burach Christopher Butler Judy Carlsson Martha Chanese Lisa Comito Chelsea Crawford Mary D’Amato Anthony DeLeo Michael DePalma Diane Disbrow Linda Diver Shani Dixon Daniel Dougherty Carlo Drogo Christopher Edwards Gareth Farmer Erin Finazzo Carla Flitter Audra Fontanella Anthony Frederico Tracy Freeman Christine Frosini Tina Frye Jane Gallo Anna Garifine Benjamin Garrison Janet Ginsberg Deborah Graske Mirvat Haddad Edward Haines Kristina Hajhassan Patricia Hallock Jocelyne Holden Susan Hughes Lori Janick Denise Jasinski Vernon Jones Chris Joo
Katayoun Ketabi William Kilbride Serina Lancia Tara Landusco Henry Lanzalotti Daniel Lorch Eric Macon Cecilia McCarthy Joanne McLaughlin Jessica Nooney Mary Ellen O’Boyle Dora Omana Susan Padva Patricia Pearl Joseph Pino Roland Pott Michael Quinn Madeline Rapp Anne Rendle Tammy Roberts Alex Rodriguez Anthony Rovito Joseph Sarkar Richard Shaffer Alexis Siciliano-Bell Sandra Solomon Tracy Sonner Shirley Sosland Christine Stephan Kimberly Storcella Marcos Suarez Patricia Sudal Kathryn Supko Patricia Tahan MaryJane Tarabocchia Martha Torres Diane Turton Carol Tyson Ashworth Alida Vasquez Nicole Ventrella Mary Warshefski William Watkins Colleen Wilson Marsha Woodruffe Barbara Youcah
PRESIDENT’S CLUB ($500 to $999) Margaret Ajamian James Arakelian Michelle Arnold Anthony Balboni Carolyn Barszcz Frances Blakely Michael Blasi Madiha Boraie Joan Bostonian Louanna Branca Carole Lynn Brescia Nora Jane Burrows Gloria Carpinello Brenda Connolly Dawn Cortes Kristie Davida Dinesh Desai Meg Dwyer-Giobbie Genette Falk Debra Flower Brenda Foley Jennifer Francis Rick Gullo Alan Hack Enrique Hernandez Rina Iarrapino Vincent Ioia Frank Isoldi Deborah Kerr Kathleen McDonald Kenneth Mueller Donna Murray Nicholas Pagano Ellen Pignataro Klaudia Piotrowicz Sally Ponchak Heather Robillard Rhoda Russo Carolyn Strittmatter Sherry Tamasco Andrew Zastko
Contributions to RPAC are not deductible for federal income tax purposes. Contributions are voluntary and are used for political purposes. The amounts indicated are merely guidelines and you may contribute more or less than the suggested amounts provided your contribution is within applicable contribution limits. The National Association of Realtors® and its state and local associations will not favor or disadvantage any member because of the amount contributed or a decision not to contribute. You may refuse to contribute without reprisal. Unless otherwise required by applicable law, any request for the refund of a contribution must be made within two (2) business days of the date on which you authorize RPAC to charge you for said contribution. Your contribution is split between National RPAC and the State PAC in your state. Contact your State Association or PAC for information about the percentages of your contribution provided to National RPAC and to the State PAC. The National RPAC portion is used to support federal candidates and is charged against your limits under 52 U.S.C. 30116.
NEW JERSEY REALTOR® | January/February 2024 | 9
INTRODUCING YOUR 2024 LEADERSHIP TEAM 2024 PRESIDENT
PRESIDENT ELECT
GLORIA MONKS
A
resident of Mercer County, Gloria is a Broker Associate with Compass in Princeton, and holds a broker’s license in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. She is a member of the Mercer County Bar Association— Real Estate Section, Asian Real Estate Association of America, National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals®, served as a Nominating Committee Member for Bright MLS, and was Membership Director for Women’s Council of Realtors® Mercer County Chapter. She is a Director for the National Association of Realtors® and former committee and workgroup member of NAR, and was an Inaugural Mentor for the NAR Spire Program. She is also a Realtors® Political Action Committee Golden “R” President’s Circle Member. On the state level, Gloria serves on the Executive Committee and Board of Directors. She has served as Triple Play Convention Committee Chair, Risk Management Committee Vice-Chair, the Legal Affairs Division Officer, Professional Standards and Risk Management Committees. Gloria also served as an Issues Mobilization Fund Trustee and RPAC of New Jersey Trustee. Locally, Gloria is a CORE Association of Realtors® Past President, Mercer County Association of Realtors® Past President, Board of Directors Member, and has served and chaired numerous committees at the local level since 2008. In 2020, Gloria was named Realtor® of the Year for New Jersey Realtors® and CORE Association of Realtors®. 10 | NEW JERSEY REALTOR ® | January/February 2024
KATHY MORIN
K
athy, a resident of Middlesex County, is Team Leader/Broker Associate for RE/MAX ONE-Team Roka-Cranbury. Licensed for more than 28 years, she holds a broker salesperson’s license and is a licensed instructor.
She served as a National Association of Realtors® Committee Member for Professional Development, AEC Volunteer Leadership Advisory Board, Commitment to Excellence, and Communications. She is also a Realtors® Political Action Committee Golden “R” and RPAC Hall of Fame—$25,000 level. On the state level, she serves as a member of the New Jersey Realtors® Board of Directors, has served as Division Officer for Professional Development and Industry Advocacy, as well as several committees, and is a RPAC Trustee and Housing Opportunity Foundation Trustee. She received the Metro Centre Association of Realtors® and New Jersey Realtors® Realtor® of the Year in 2017. As a board member for Metro Centre Association of Realtors®, she has served on and chaired many committees. A Women’s Council of Realtors® member, she served as the first Regional Vice President from NJ for Region 6, State President, Governor, and Local Chapter President. She is also a member of AREAA Central Jersey and NAHREP Somerset. Kathy believes in staying informed and bringing her best, and holds the ABR, SRES, PMN, CRS, SRS designations, and the AHWD, PSA, SFR, RSPS certifications. She is also NAR Commitment to Excellence endorsed.
TREASURER
JAIRO RODRIGUEZ FIRST VICE PRESIDENT
SUE LA RUE
S
ue has been a resident of Somerset County her entire life, currently residing in Montgomery. She is a Vice President and Broker Associate at Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Fox and Roach and has been a Managing Broker for over 20 years and licensed for more than 38 years. She currently is a National Association of Realtors® Committee Member, and a member of the NAR Leading Edge Advisory Board since 2021. Sue currently acts as an NAR Director, served as a NAR Spire Mentor for upcoming Realtors®, and is a Federal Political Coordinator for NAR. On the state level, she serves as the New Jersey Realtors® Region 4 Vice President, New Jersey Realtors® Committee and Board member, New Jersey Realtors® Professional Standards Committee, New Jersey Realtors® Circle of Excellence Committee, and is a New Jersey Realtors® Educational Foundation Trustee. On a local level, Sue has served and chaired numerous committees and task forces, including Government Affairs, Grievance, Professional Standards, New Jersey Realtors® Circle of Excellence Sales Award®, Nominating Committee, and the By-Laws Committee. She also is a certified ombudsman and mediator. She has been the member of her local board for over 10 years, as a board member, President-Elect, First Vice President and then President in 2021. Sue was honored with the CORE Association Realtor® of the Year award in 2021. She has achieved her SRES designation, NAR At Home with Diversity certification, Fair Haven, NAR Commitment to Excellence endorsement, and takes advantage of any trainings that will help with her career.
J
airo’s passion and drive, instilled in him during his military service, have led him to become a highly active member of the Realtor® associations. He served as the North Central Jersey Association of Realtors® President in 2021 and has been a Director at New Jersey Realtors® since 2019. He also serves on the National Association of Realtors® Young Professionals Advisory Board as the 2023 Chair.
Additionally, Jairo is a graduate of the National Association of Realtors® Leadership Class of 2021. At NAR, he has served on the Meetings and Conference Committee, Housing Opportunities Committee, and currently serves on the Strategic Planning Committee. Jairo’s commitment to excellence and dedication to his community and industry have made him a highly respected figure in both spheres. He is a shining example of what it means to be a leader, and his tireless efforts to make a positive impact on the world around him serve as an inspiration to many. Whether it is through his work in real estate, his community service, or his military service, Jairo is committed to making a difference. Jairo is a proud supporter of RPAC, currently at the Crystal “R” level, and is a member of the President’s Circle.
IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT
NICK MANIS
N
ick Manis was the New Jersey Realtors® Treasurer in 2018 and 2019, First Vice President in 2021, President-Elect in 2022, and held roles as a Division Officer from 2015-2017. In addition, he served as Chair and Vice Chair of New Jersey Realtors® committees, has been a member of the Executive Committee since 2015, and has served on the Board of Directors since 2011. On the national level, Nick was the 2021 Chair of the National Association of Realtors® Federal Taxation Committee and has been a member of several additional national committees since 2009. Currently, he is the NAR Federal Political Coordinator to U.S. Senator Cory A. Booker and a member of the 2023 NAR RPAC Major Investor Council.
On the local level, he served on the Board of Directors for Hunterdon Somerset Association of Realtors® and the Grievance Committee in 2010, and was a member of the Young Professionals Network in 2013. Furthermore, Nick was awarded the NJ Realtors® Good Neighbor Award in 2012, the NAR Good Neighbor Award in 2013, and the NAR Realtor® Heroes Award in 2012. Nick currently lives in Monmouth County with his wife, Ioanna, and their two children, Siena and Constantine. NEW JERSEY REALTOR® | January/February 2024 | 11
TOWN SPOTLIGHT
Lafayette BY LINDSEY GETZ
H
olding the honor of being the first town in the U.S. to be named after Marquis de LaFayette, the famous Frenchman who helped win the American Revolution, Lafayette, incorporated in 1845, has maintained its rural charm even as new business and industrial evolution make its mark on the town. “We are very careful to maintain the appeal of the old while still allowing the ‘new’ in,” said Kevin O’Leary, a longtime resident, member of the Lafayette Township Committee, Land Use Board, and Open Space Advisory Committee, and last year’s mayor. “If you drive through Lafayette, you’ll still see many active farms and a lot of open space, but we’re evolving.” O’Leary said the town is situated in the center of Sussex County with rolling hills and ridgelines. Historic farmhouses are scattered throughout with a larger assortment of newer colonial and custombuilt homes. Ordinances, including the Ridgeline Viewshed Protection overlay zone, help maintain the town’s rural charm. It’s the quaintness, and even farm life, drawing people to Lafayette and with
12 | NEW JERSEY REALTOR ® | January/February 2024
approximately 2,500 residents, it’s undoubtedly a small-town community. “We’re seeing more young families that are interested in farming and see the value of growing their own food or raising animals, even if they’re not doing it commercially,” said O’Leary. “People are drawn to the area for that small-town feel.” Roadside farm stands are sprinkled throughout Lafayette, offering residents and visitors fresh fruits and vegetables, local honey, as well as fresh meat and dairy products. Lafayette has an abundance of forested and environmentally sensitive land that supports a wide variety of wildlife, such as threatened and endangered species. In fact, Lafayette is home to a 262-acre preserved great blue heron rookery, one of the most important sanctuaries on the East Coast for the nesting species. With so much open space, there is no limit to outdoor activities. The Paulins Kill tributary runs through Lafayette and is known for its trout, providing opportunities for fishing. Lafayette
also features various trailhead locations throughout the town with parking areas. The trailhead located on Warbasse Junction Road offers parking for equestrian trailers and direct access to a vast trail system developed by the state on old railroad right of ways. Lafayette provides a great environment for activities like hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, and horseback riding right in the township’s backyard. Beyond its natural beauty, Lafayette offers plentiful shopping and dining experiences. Despite the rise of online shopping, the The Shoppes at Lafayette provide an outdoor shopping experience, featuring specialty shops, women’s boutiques, a candy shop, and a do it yourself candle shop. Renowned for its antiquing, Lafayette is home to The Lafayette Mill Antiques Center, a downtown attraction drawing antique collectors from as far as Philadelphia and New York. The Mill and surrounding properties earned the designation of a National Historic District in 2013, with the Ludlum-Mabee House
TOWN SPOTLIGHT
Photos courtesy of Lafayette Township
meticulously restored by the Lafayette Center Preservation Foundation. “Our antique center attracts the most out-of-towners,” said Lafayette Township Land Use Administrator Stephanie Pizzulo. “Lafayette has become known as an antique destination for many collectors.” The antique center hosts a monthly outdoor vintage flea market from April through November, attracting visitors from all over seeking unique finds. Lafayette’s proximity to New York City brings visitors from the city drawn by the town’s seasonal activities like farmer’s markets, pumpkin and apple picking, and selecting the perfect Christmas tree to cut on one of Lafayette’s tree farms. In its early days, Lafayette was known for its taverns. Today, popular venues like Lafayette House and the Millside Café are popular destinations offering a charming, rustic atmosphere for locals and visitors. As far as houses coming on the market, according to New Jersey Realtors® October housing market data report, Lafayette had 23 single family closed
sales year-to-date, a 15% increase over last year. O’Leary acknowledges the limited inventory market across the state, this scarcity underscores the trend of residents putting down roots and staying, as O’Leary said houses are “snatched up quickly,” with single family homes staying on the market for 62 days yearto-date. Demand remains strong in the area with the single family median sales price increasing 2.9% year-to-date to $493,333 and homes receiving 102.1% of the list price. A recently approved 132-unit apartment complex, according to Pizzulo, will provide a new housing option and attract new people to the area, while the town’s highly regarded schools draw more families to Lafayette. “The school is very good with particularly small class sizes that you don’t often see these days,” said Pizzulo. “It’s a lot of personalized attention, since teachers can really get to know the students.” O’Leary agrees it’s a “close-knit school,” and like other small towns, there’s a neighborly atmosphere where everyone knows one another and is willing to lend a hand.
While Lafayette has done a tremendous job of maintaining rural living, the town aims to keep up with the times. Lafayette has approved two cannabis cultivation operations, which will create jobs and tax revenue. According to Pizzulo, other industries are coming into town, contributing to more growth. “We recently approved an application for a pharmaceutical packaging company and a 60,000 square foot warehouse for a light industrial use, which will create jobs for the area,” said Pizzulo. “We are growing.” In a nod to keeping up with recent recreational trends, the town also recently installed its first pickleball court. “We are evolving, but we are very committed to open space preservation to protect our abundance of environmentally sensitive land and are very mindful of that,” said O’Leary. “We are careful to remain relevant while also maintaining the quaintness that we know many people came here for in the first place.” NEW JERSEY REALTOR® | January/February 2024 | 13
REALTORS® 2023
RECAP
BY LISA FANT
Over 6,000 Attendees 271 Exhibiting Companies 49 Speakers Over 100 Sessions
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he 2023 Triple Play Realtor® Convention & Trade Expo, the largest real estate convention and trade show in the U.S., convened thousands of industry professionals at the Atlantic City Convention Center from Dec. 4-7, 2023. Hosted by New Jersey Realtors®, Pennsylvania Association of Realtors®, and New York State Association of Realtors®, this event attracted Realtors®, brokers, appraisers, and various real estate industry experts. Featuring over 100 educational sessions, attendees delved into diverse courses covering industry trends, the utilization of the latest artificial intelligence technology for enhanced client experiences, and strategies for navigating a dynamic real estate market. Highlighted sessions included a New Jersey Legal Update with New Jersey Realtors® Chief Counsel Barry Goodman, Esq. After a full day of sessions, attendees wrapped up the first day of Triple Play with the Realtors® Triple Play Kick-Off Party at Caesars Atlantic City— Wild Wild West, with a night of networking and enjoyment among fellow Realtors®.
On Tuesday, the Realtors® Triple Play Expo opened its doors, featuring 271 exhibiting companies showcasing cutting-edge industry products and services. New Jersey Realtors® was front and center, and welcomed attendees with brand swag, and spread the word about new programs for first-time buyers through the New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency, and New Jersey Realtors® value of membership campaign—Your Key to Success. Members attended the New Jersey Realtors® Awards Session, gathering to recognize the state 14 | NEW JERSEY REALTOR ® | January/February 2024
and local Realtor® and Realtor-Associates® of the Year, Good Neighbor Award winners, New Jersey Realtors® Quarter Century Club recipients, and newly-inducted Realtor® Emeritus members. Congratulations to the 2023 New Jersey Realtors® Good Neighbor Awards winners, first-place winner Denise Horneck, second-place winner Justin Bosak, and third-place winner Carolyn Bardach, as well as 2023 Realtor® of the Year Judith Moriarty and 2023 Realtor-Associate® of the Year Bruno Mele. Following the awards ceremony, New Jersey Realtors® commemorated the installation of the New Jersey Realtors® 2024 Leadership Team at the President’s Installation & Gala at Bally’s Ocean Ballroom. Gloria Monks was named the 2024 President, with Kathy Morin as PresidentElect, Susan LaRue as First Vice President, Jairo Rodriguez as Treasurer, and Nick Manis as Immediate Past President. The day concluded with members heading to Caesars Atlantic City’s Palladium Ballroom for the Icebreaker Reception—an anticipated networking event featuring dancing, hors d’oeuvres, and more. Educational sessions and the Realtors® Triple Play Expo continued, with some members pledging to invest in the Realtors® Political Action Committee and attending the exclusive Realtors® Political Action Committee High Rollers’ Suite, complete with food, drinks, massages, manicures, shoeshines, professional headshots, and more. As our time in Atlantic City came to a close on the convention’s last day, attendees had the opportunity to wrap up their sessions and earn any remaining continuing education credits. Thank you to all who attended the 2023 Realtors® Triple Play Convention. We look forward to seeing you at Realtors® Triple Play 2024—Dec. 9-12, 2024 in Atlantic City.
NEW JERSEY REALTOR® | January/February 2024 | 15
TECH COLUMN
TOP 5 APPS EVERY REALTOR® SHOULD HAVE IN 2024 BY WILLIAM THOMPSON, NJ REALTORS® DIRECTOR OF TECHNOLOGY
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s you gear up for a successful 2024, here are five apps that promise to elevate efficiency and bolster success:
1. RPR® Mobile
With detailed listing data and real-time market insights, Realtors® Property Resource Mobile deserves prime home screen placement. Impress clients with professional property, neighborhood, and market reports, view a property’s RVM®, RPR®’s proprietary automated valuation model, and more, all on the go. Whether you’re representing buyers, sellers, or both, RPR® has everything you need to impress. Exclusively available to Realtors® at no extra cost, RPR® is a powerful resource for seamless transactions.
2. zipForm Mobile
Unlock the full potential of Transactions (zipForm Edition) with the zipForm Mobile app. Fine-tune offers, draft contracts, or secure signatures from anywhere. As a New Jersey Realtor®, both Transactions (zipForm Edition) and zipForm Mobile are member benefits and available to you at no extra charge.
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3. Forewarn
In the face-to-face world of real estate, Forewarn is a must-have app. Enhance safety and decision-making with instant access to identity verification and risk assessment with as little as a phone number. Forewarn is more than just a screening service; it’s a safeguard, providing peace of mind in your daily business.
4. Photofy
Elevate your marketing game with Photofy. Easily customize professionally designed templates featuring content from both the National Association of Realtors® and New Jersey Realtors®. Visit nar.realtor/photofy to claim your free account today and take your social media and email marketing to new heights.
5. Realtyzam
As tax season approaches, stay organized with Realtyzam. Start the year off right and seamlessly manage your business finances, track expenses, and stay organized with user-friendly accounting tools, plus instantly generate reports to make filing taxes a breeze. Realtyzam is a Member Perks partner offering 10% off for New Jersey Realtors® members, visit njrealtor.com/member-perks/ to learn more.
Oilheat. Know more, sell more.
Let’s Talk About It! Overcoming Objections in Real Estate: Oil‑Heated Homes Sought‑after speaker, Susan Janett, guarantees to rev up your team in just 15 minutes with smart solutions to sell more oil‑heated listings. Topics to cover: What drives heating oil prices. Why prices are lower now than they were a year ago. How to address aboveground and underground tank issues. The three tell-tale signs an aboveground tank is at risk. The three programs your oilheat customers should be asking for. How to know when it’s time to upgrade an old furnace or broiler. How to get your customers heating equipment rebates. And so much more! To schedule Susan to speak in-office or virtually, contact Jeanne Noll at JNoll@oilheatpros.com.
Susan Janett Program Director Licensed NJ Realtor 30+ Years Nationally Accredited CE Instructor Speaker/Educator/Trainer
PRO$ Corner Equipment Rebates Will Be Available in 2024! Did you know that homeowners in New Jersey will be able to receive equipment rebates and federal tax credits when they upgrade their oilheat system to a new, higher efficiency boiler or furnace? Equipment rebates up to $700 will be available to New Jersey residents in the springtime, thanks to funding made available by the National Oilheat Research Alliance. Residents may also be eligible to receive a federal tax credit of up to $600*, as part of the Inflation Reduction Act passed in 2023. The process will be simple for your clients; all they’ll need to do is connect with their local heating oil company to get the ball rolling. They (and you!) can keep up to date on New Jersey equipment rebate information by visiting OilheatNewJersey.com. *To qualify for tax credit, the boiler or furnace must be rated by manufacturer to be capable of burning B20. Tax credit may be offset by other home energy improvements you make. Be sure to check with a tax professional about your eligibility.
Position Yourself as an Oilheat Specialist Earn FREE CE credits with our 2-credit, 2-hour elective CE course “Overcoming Obstacles Selling OilHeated Listings” — designed to position you as an oil-heated listing specialist! You’ll learn how to address the most common objections and misconceptions while showcasing the many benefits of owning an oil-heated home. To schedule a CE Class for your office on Zoom or in-person, visit OilheatCECredits.com.
Paid for by the Fuel Merchants Association of New Jersey and the National Oilheat Research Alliance NEW JERSEY REALTOR® | January/February 2024 | 17
TRANSACTION ROADMAP BY LEE NELSON
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uying a home can be daunting especially for those who have never done it before. By breaking the process down into smaller steps like reading a recipe to bake a complicated cake, they can reach the end without added stress and be happy homeowners. This transaction guide can be given to your clients to help them understand all the aspects and all the moving parts of buying a house while explaining the highlights of why a Realtor® can improve the home buying journey.
Find a Realtor
®
Get Preapproved
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Once you find a lender you can work with and their rates seem good, then ask for a preapproval for a mortgage loan. The lender looks at your financial situation including income, employment situation, debt, and tax information for the last two years. Yarnall reccomends asking the lender to prepare the preapproval for what you can afford rather than the home price range you’re looking.
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“I still believe they need to sit down with a Realtor® first to talk about the process,” said Realtor® and sales associate with Realty Executives Exceptional Realtors in Kinnelon Kristen DeLeo. Finding a Realtor® can be as easy as talking with friends and family who have recently used someone they trust. You can also research agents in your area by visiting njrealtor.com/find. A Realtor® is a real estate agent who is an active member of the National Association of Realtors® who follows a strict Code of Ethics, are industry experts, and put their clients’ needs above all else. Most Realtors® can also provide reliable lenders’ names to if they need them too.
4 Understand a Realtor®’s Strengths
A Realtor® can do market analysis, negotiate better deals, understand legal and regulatory changes, handle paperwork, identify potential issues with a property, customize search for specific needs, and advise on long-term value, said Designated Realtor® and regional manager of Howard Home | Rand Realty in Old Tappan Lisa Comito, Esq. In this tough time of low inventory, sometimes Realtors® can discover internal resources with homes that haven’t hit the market yet. DeLeo emphasizes some clients feel like they don’t want to bother their Realtors® if they see a house they are interested in visiting for an open house. “We don’t get paid until we close. We want to know if something interests them,” said Comito.
2 Find a Lender that Fits Your Needs
Ask all the right questions to potential lenders such as “Do you have any promotions going on right now without any catches?” said Realtor® and broker at RE/MAX Select in Westfield Neda Yarnall. “Don’t buy points. I give a set of questions to my buyers to ask lenders.” Lenders should also give you a timeline of how long a preapproval will take and the closing on a loan if all goes well too.
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Find the Right House
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Comito, who is also serving as 2024 President of Greater Bergen Association of Realtors®, feels buyers predominantly initiate their home search online. “This digital approach allows them to conveniently start their search from the comfort of their home,” said Comito. Although some sales are quick, some of DeLeo’s clients are on their second and third year trying to find the perfect house. “They don’t want to settle,” said DeLeo.
Put in an Offer
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Obtain your Keys at the Closing
Once you find the property you want to purchase, your Realtor will help put in an offer of what you want to pay. You will also submit the amount of earnest money to incentivize the seller to accept your offer. “The higher the better if it is a very desirable home,” said Yarnall. Five or 10% of the purchase price is common especially if you are putting down 20% on a home purchase. That money goes into a trust account in your name, said Yarnall. In the offer, you can include contingencies such as needing to sell your house before you can complete the purchase. During the pandemic, some people were buying by waiving an inspection and offering way over asking price to beat out others when there were multiple offers. DeLeo is seeing her clients putting in about three offers on different houses before one is accepted. ®
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Inspect the Inspection
A licensed inspector conducts a detailed evaluation of a property’s overall condition, said Comito. “Your Realtor® can tell you past client results of dealing with a particular inspector but, of course, cannot vogue for the inspector,” said Comito. In addition to a general home inspection, other inspections you might consider are chimney, pipes, septic, lead paint, and the list goes on, said Comito. Yarnall emphasizes it’s very important to get a thorough inspection. A buyer should be at the home inspection. “The inspector will show you how everything runs in the house,” said Yarnall. Follow them throughout the house. They will talk about how to change the furnace filter, where the water shut off is, and so much more.
Prepare for Closing
Move In
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Bring your I.D.s and a personal check to the closing in case there are some kinds of discrepancies. “Closings using are normally very peaceful,” said Yarnall. Sometimes, your Realtor® will show up, but the sellers or lawyers may not attend. So much is done online and through wiring funds. The title companies take care of a lot of the business.
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It’s now your home. Enoy and keep up the maintenance so the value continues to appreciate.
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A few days before the closing, you can do a final walk-through of the home to make sure everything is in “broom clean condition” and all the repairs requested from the inspection are complete, said Yarnall. Receipts from all the work done should be available during the closing or before. “As the closing date nears, your Realtor® will check with the seller’s Realtor® to ensure that a proper Continued Certificate of Occupancy has been obtained (where applicable),” said Comito. NEW JERSEY REALTOR® | January/February 2024 | 19
2023 REALTOR® OF THE YEAR
JUDITH MORIARTY
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udy exemplifies the Realtor® spirit with an unwavering commitment to professional standards and volunteerism. She’s earned certifications as a Professional Standards Administrator and completed ombudsman and mediator training through NAR and Northwestern University Law School. She is also active in the Central Jersey Chapter of AAREA and the LGBTQ+ Real Estate Alliance. She also holds the C2EX designation and the At Home with Diversity certification from NAR.
contributed to NAR committees, currently serving on the MLS Issues and Policies Committee. A licensed broker across multiple states, Judy currently holds the role of Broker of Record for Zillow, where she drives compliance strategies that aid licensees and consumers. In her former capacity as a Tom Ferry International Business Coach, she helped numerous agents and teams achieve a remarkable average 70% growth in annual sales.
Judy engages in various local committees, including Pro Standards, Grievance, Manager’s Council, and Bylaws, contributing her expertise as a mediator and ombudsman. As the 2023 President of the CORE Association of Realtors® and an NAR Director, she actively participates in the association’s volunteer and member activities.
Judy volunteers at the Rustin Center for Social Justice and has contributed to local library rescue initiatives. Formerly, she served as Treasurer at the Trenton City Museum and as President of the Princeton Chapter of Mothers & More, as well as a director on their national board.
For 20 years, Judy has played a key role in state-level professional standards, serving as the 2022 Chair of the Professional Standards Committee, and on New Jersey Realtors® Board of Directors. At the national level, she’s
Judy’s deep commitment and extensive engagement at all organizational levels, knowledge sharing, and embodiment of core Realtor® values are evident, making her a valuable asset to the community.
2023 REALTOR-ASSOCIATE® OF THE YEAR
BRUNO MELE
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runo Mele has been a member of the Liberty Board of Realtors® since 2016. He actively supports various board events, including the annual golf outing, Salvation Army Pie and Toy Drive, and the St. Joseph School for the Blind fundraisers. In addition to his involvement with the board, Bruno is an active member of the JDJ Charitable Foundation,
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which donates to cancer research and provides financial support to families facing cancer challenges. The foundation also offers wheelchairs to children with physical limitations. Bruno actively raises funds for the foundation, participating in events such as the NYC Marathon to secure donations for the cause.
2023 QUARTER CENTURY CLUB Adrena Aiazian
Donna Moskowitz
Linda Wright
Richard A. Valenti
Amy DeBellis
Donna O’Neill
Lisa Alper-Russo
Rick Lodato
Anne Haas
Donna T. Wilson
Lisa Parrott
Rita E. Henderson
Anthony Balboni
Dorothea Bello
Lorraine Zito
Robert T. Gutowski
Barbara Ann Stock
Edgar C. Cajilig
Louis Fava
Rocky Balsamo
Barbara Dolan
Eileen J. Pilone
Lydia Lewis
Roosevelt Hall
Eugenia O. Brunone
Elaine Gutowski
Lynn Rossi
Samuel Rivera
Barbara J. Berger
Francinea Fountain-Plummer
Marc Petitt
Sandra White
Beverly Petix
Freda L. Thomas
Marcia Coviello
Sarojni Rajkumar-Longo
Blanche Paul
Fredric M. DiAntonio
Maria A. Marinelli
Shane Walters
Candace Cianflone
Gail Wilsey-Morrison
Marie H. LePera
Sheila M. Caracciolo
Carlotta L. Ackley
Gloria V. Siciliano
Marion M. Rowland
Sophia Alexis Valavanis
Carmen C. Minguela
Harris M. Sandler
Marisa Traverso
Stacey Friedman Lipkin
Carol Povich
Heidi L. Wittenberg
Mark J. Krupnick
Stacy Rotondo
Carol Versen
Helene F. Harrison
Mary Ann Calise-Wessel
Susana Bances
Catherine Kasprak
Hope Rosenberg
Mary M. Nuziale
Taihee “James” Oh
Cecilia A. Friedrich
Janeen Seagreaves
Maureen Yetman
Tammy S. Roberts
Cheryl Goldinger
Janet R. Forman
Mercedita Serrano-Marasigan
Valerie Earley
Cindy L. Marsh Tichy
Jennifer Darby Metzger
Michael Amirrezvani
Vivek Malhotra
Constance Smith
JoAnne Basile
Miriam L. Kauterman
Viveka Gunasekaran
Cynthia Guariglia
Joanne Reder
Miriam Martir
Wendy M. Smith
Dale M. Parello
John A. Greiner
Nicolas J. DiMeglio
William Rosa
Daniel White Jr
John Kuhn
Norinne Coronato
Yifan “Robert” Deng
Daren Sautter
Joseph Falaye
Noris Saintil
David Barthold
Joyce I. Dubin
Patricia Lawler
David DePaola
Joyce R. Albert
Patricia M. Rohan
Dawn G. Muldoon
Judi S. Cohen
Peter Szwed
Denise M. Canell
Judy A. Moriarty
Phyllis Elizabeth Farrow
Diane Kresz
Karen Resch
Pina Nazario
Donna A. De Pasquale
Kathleen Nace
Ricardo G. Rivera
2023 REALTOR® EMERITUS Theresa Sakas NEXUS Association of REALTORS®
Asghar Chaudhry CORE Association of REALTORS®
Christina Banasiak Monmouth Ocean Regional REALTORS®
Randy Ketive Greater Bergen Association of REALTORS®
Mary Ellen O’Boyle North Central Jersey Association of REALTORS®
NEW JERSEY REALTOR® | January/February 2024 | 21
FIRST PLACE DENISE HORNECK Award: $2,500 Colts Neck First Aid Squad
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enise Horneck, a Monmouth Ocean Regional Realtors® member, has earned the 2023 New Jersey Realtors® Good Neighbor Award for her remarkable 13-year commitment to the Colts Neck First Aid Squad and the broader community. In addition to her role as an Emergency Medical Technician, Denise serves as the Cadet Advisor, providing essential guidance and training to cadets aged 15 to 18, preparing them for first aid calls. Under her mentorship, the squad recently excelled in a cadet competition, showcasing the impact of her leadership. Denise responds to an average of 300-400 calls annually, day or night, displaying unwavering commitment, even during the COVID-19 pandemic when protective equipment was scarce. Her contributions extend beyond emergency response. The Colts Neck First Aid Squad actively participates in various community activities, from trash pick-ups to standby services for events and natural disasters. She provides comfort and familiarity to those in distress, making a meaningful impact on her community. Denise Horneck’s enduring commitment and the breadth of her volunteerism exemplify the core values of the Realtor® spirit, making Colts Neck a safer and more compassionate place to call home.
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SECOND PLACE JUSTIN BOSAK
THIRD PLACE CAROLYN BARDACH
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Award: $1,500 Toms River Field of Dreams ustin Bosak, a dedicated member of Monmouth Ocean Regional Realtors®, is a recipient of the 2023 New Jersey Realtors® Good Neighbor Award for his outstanding commitment to the Field of Dreams project. This innovative facility provides a safe and inclusive space for individuals with special needs. Justin’s son, Julio, diagnosed with autism, faced challenges navigating standard playgrounds, and inspired the cause. Justin worked tirelessly planning fundraisers and working with business partners to secure funding to make the inclusive playground a reality. The Field of Dreams expanded to include a playground, basketball court, bocce ball, mini-golf course, and other amenities. The project has had a profound impact on the special needs community, with over 1,500 families registered to date. The facility hosts various special needs sports events and serves as a model for similar spaces nationwide.
Award: $1,000 Jersey Battered Women’s Service (JBWS) arolyn Bardach, a member of the North Central Jersey Association of Realtors®, is a recipient of the 2023 New Jersey Realtors® Good Neighbor Award, acknowledging her unwavering dedication to domestic violence prevention. Carolyn’s journey as a domestic violence advocate began years ago, driven by personal experiences. Her involvement is ongoing, as domestic violence is a daily concern that requires immediate action. Carolyn actively participates in various events throughout the year to raise awareness and vital funds for domestic violence victims. The impact of Carolyn’s work on the individuals she serves is immeasurable. During crisis response calls, she offers personal counseling, guiding victims toward safety and a better life, empowering them with safety plans for their journey forward. Carolyn’s work has created a safer, more supportive environment for all those impacted by domestic violence, including residents of Morris County and neighboring areas.
NEW JERSEY REALTOR® | January/February 2024 | 23
Q&A
WITH KAREN DEMARCO
2023 NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® GOOD NEIGHBOR AWARD RECIPIENT
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ongratulations to Karen DeMarco on her remarkable achievement of winning the National Association of Realtors® 2023 Good Neighbor Award. Karen’s organization, The Food Brigade, received a donation of $10,000 to continue their mission of hunger relief in New Jersey plus Karen received additional funds for winning one of the three web choice favorites. We sat down with Karen to discuss who inspired her volunteerism, balancing volunteer work with her career, and more.
What inspired you to start the Food Brigade?
The origins of The Food Brigade date back to 2017, when I was diagnosed with breast cancer and had a double mastectomy. During my recuperation, we had friends and neighbors bringing meals to our house, so that we didn’t have to worry about dinner for our family. So it was one less thing we needed to think about, and the meals were a tremendous help during a difficult period. I wanted to “pay it forward,” so within a couple of months I started the Dumont Meal Brigade— an informal grouping of volunteers who would prepare and deliver meals to local residents who were dealing with a death in the family, loss of employment, serious illness or injury, etc.
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When the COVID-19 lockdown hit, I went into high gear cooking meals in my kitchen for senior citizens who could no longer go to the supermarket because the jitney bus was shut down, and for other people affected by COVID-19. Before I knew it, my husband and I were distributing boxes of food from in front of our house and had set up a free produce stand in our driveway. From there, we relocated to the parking lot of a local church and did “drive through” food distributions, with volunteers loading people’s cars with boxes of food. We also set up a network of around 30 other organizations— food pantries, women’s shelters, churches—and at the peak of the pandemic, we were distributing 30-40 tons of food every week through that network, from two locations. I didn’t set out to establish a hungerrelief nonprofit. I just kind of found myself here as a progressive outgrowth of the informal charitable work my husband and I were doing.
How do you balance your volunteer work with your real estate career?
I am so fortunate to have such an amazing team at The Food Brigade. Thanks to our Pantry Managers and our other volunteers, our food distributions operations run like clockwork every week, whether I’m there onsite or not. In addition, we have a full-time Executive Director who runs the organization, so that allows me to focus strictly on our food distribution operations and on serving our clients, and not have to worry about things like volunteer recruitment and management, bookkeeping and legal compliance, communications and social media, fundraising, etc. That frees me up to be able to handle my real estate work around the schedule of The Food Brigade’s weekly distributions. I also have a wonderful team of Realtors® in my office that are there for whatever I need. The support that I have from my Broker and my Regional Vice President of Coldwell Banker has been amazing as well as making it easy for me to still be a successful real estate agent.
What have you learned since starting the Food Brigade? First, from doing this work, I’ve learned just how much need there is in New Jersey, and it’s in virtually every community. Second, from our volunteers, I’ve learned how incredibly giving and caring people are in New Jersey—to watch these volunteers in action, week in and week out, will restore your faith in your fellow humans no matter how jaded you are. Lastly, I’ve grown to truly appreciate the importance and power of a team. There’s no way that I alone could ever have made the impact that The Food Brigade has. Each week, we have an average of 80100 volunteers helping to feed around 2,000 of their neighbors in need. So, I’ve learned that the work of The Food Brigade, and the organization’s expansion, could not possibly be done without our amazing volunteers.
How can other Realtors® get involved with The Food Brigade or support the cause?
We have expenses that go beyond food acquisition: things like rent, utilities, insurance, and carting fees, to gasoline for our delivery vehicles, to plastic gloves for food handling. So aside from our volunteers, the lifeblood of an organization like ours is financial support. We have a donations page on our website at foodbrigade.org/ donate, and we accept credit cards, PayPal, Zelle, Venmo, and checks. We also accept donations of stock. And for those who’d like to join us on the “front lines” in the fight against food insecurity in New Jersey, they can “enlist” in the Brigade at foodbrigade.org/volunteer.
What’s your proudest moment since starting the Food Brigade?
I think what makes me most proud is actually how proud our three children are of me, and knowing that my husband and I succeeded in raising what we call “good humans.” But in terms of a specific event, I would say receiving the national Good Neighbor Award at the NAR’s annual conference in Anaheim in November. The whole process running up to the award ceremony really enabled me to kind of step outside of myself, to objectively look at the workings and effect of The Food Brigade. It made me better able to appreciate the organization’s growth and the importance of its work. It’s like with your children: you’re around them all the time, and you don’t notice on a dayto-day basis how they’re growing over time. With The Food Brigade soon opening its fourth food distribution center in New Jersey, I think I’m better able now to understand and appreciate the impact of our organization and the number of people in need that we’re helping. NEW JERSEY REALTOR® | January/February 2024 | 25
Realtors® Q&A
Meet the Decision Makers ACTING COMMISSIONER
JUSTIN ZIMMERMAN
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elcome to our series, Meet the Decision Makers, where we interview key decision makers on their influential role within New Jersey. For this issue, we have Acting Commissioner Justin Zimmerman. His verbatim responses are italicized below. Do you have an idea of someone you’d like to see us interview? Email editor@njrealtor.com
Justin Zimmerman
Can you tell us a little about yourself and how you got started in public service?
Having grown up in New Jersey, I was fortunate to be immersed in the diversity of our great state, which shaped who I am today. I understood early on that New Jersey’s diversity in population and experiences is what makes it a unique place to live. Through my love of history and my parents instilling in me to follow my passions, I was drawn to public service at a young age. I have had the privilege of serving in numerous
roles during my tenure in state government, and was incredibly honored to be nominated by Governor Murphy to serve as the Commissioner of the Department of Banking and insurance, after holding the Department’s Chief of Staff position since 2018. Prior to joining the Murphy Administration, I served as Chief of Policy and Legislation to the New Jersey State Senate President Pro Tempore, where I focused on expanding access to quality affordable healthcare for New Jerseyans, and the expansion of voting rights and civil rights. I began my time in state service working as a Briefing Aide to Governor Jon Corzine and Director of Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs for the New Jersey Department of State. Throughout my career, I have benefited from working alongside state leaders and dedicated public servants who are also committed to bringing meaningful change to our state that improves the lives of New Jerseyans.
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What does the job of the Commissioner of Banking and Insurance entail in the state of NJ?
As the Acting Commissioner of Banking and Insurance, I serve as the chief regulator of New Jersey’s insurance industry, all state-chartered banks and credit unions, consumer finance licensees and the real estate industry. The department works to regulate these industries in a professional and timely manner that protects and educates consumers and promotes the growth, financial stability and efficiency of those industries. Additionally, I lead Get Covered New Jersey, the state’s official health insurance marketplace, which connects residents who do not have health coverage from their employers or access to other health care programs to quality, affordable health insurance.
What have you been working on that would help the real estate market in NJ? The department works every day to strengthen the real estate industry
TOP FIVE QUESTIONS 1. Does Central NJ exist? Yes, see P.L. 2023 c. 149.. through our regulation and oversight to ensure that licensees serving the public are meeting high standards. Additionally, we are focused on being responsive to the needs of Realtors® and have taken steps to modernize our processes to better serve the industry. We’ve worked to improve the licensing process and allowed for remote exams to provide greater flexibility for existing licensees and for individuals who want to pursue a career in real estate who want to take the licensure exams.
What other issues have you been tackling in your role as Acting Commissioner?
The department is committed to Governor Murphy’s goal of a stronger and fairer New Jersey. Since the beginning of the administration the Department has developed and implemented numerous consumer protections and
2. Go-To Pizza Topping: Sausage and Broccoli Rabe programs impacting 3. Pork Roll or Taylor Ham: Taylor Ham countless New Jerseyans, 4. Favorite Sports Team: Jets and Mets including New 5. Dead or Alive, who is someone you Jersey’s out of would want to meet? A dinner in network law, student Washington, D.C. with Ulysess S. loan protections, mortgage Grant and Frederick Douglass servicers licensing, mental health parity and expanding access to reproductive health care. has also worked to build flexibility in the Marketplace to provide What do you think is the access to health insurance for as most impactful project you many residents as possible and have worked on? The department’s work to create and has created Special Enrollment Periods tailored to the needs of establish Get Covered New Jersey, our residents. Because of the the state’s official health insurance leadership of Governor Murphy, marketplace, has been incredibly the legislature and the department, impactful. Since its inception in hundreds of thousands of residents 2020, Get Covered New Jersey have already obtained health transformed New Jersey’s health insurance through Get Covered insurance landscape for consumers New Jersey, and the overwhelming in the individual market, ensuring majority of enrollees have that more New Jerseyans have benefited from state and federal greater access to quality, affordable savings. health insurance. New Jersey was the first state in the nation to open its marketplace with enhanced state subsidies that lower premiums for most enrollees. The department NEW JERSEY REALTOR® | January/February 2024 | 27
A LOOK BACK AT REALTOR®-PALOOZA 2023 BY LISA FANT
T
he fifth annual Realtor®-Palooza, hosted by New Jersey Realtors®, took place on Sept. 22, 2023. NJ Realtors® members convened for a day enriched with education, engaging activities, and networking opportunities. To kick-start the day, attendees recharged with specialty coffee and fresh donuts, as they prepared for the exciting events ahead.
Morning continuing education sessions featured Putting Realtor® Safety First with NJ Realtors® Past President Chris Schlueter, emphasizing safety awareness and habits for professionals on the job. NJ Legal Update with NJ Realtors® Chief Counsel Barry Goodman, Esq. delved into crucial real estate regulations and emerging issues, while Current Issues Affecting NJ Realtors® with the NJ Realtors® 2023 Leadership Team explored top trending industry topics. Exclusive chats with NJ Realtors CEO Jarrod Grasso and Immediate Past President Nick Manis provided members with valuable insights on the latest industry developments. For those seeking to refresh their professional profiles, the ®
28 | NEW JERSEY REALTOR ® | January/February 2024
headshot sessions were a hit, while the scavenger hunt engaged participants and they were rewarded with prizes. As the day progressed into the afternoon, the parking lot and outdoor courtyard transformed into a bustling hub of music, games, and activities. Members enjoyed lunch from local food trucks, followed by a happy hour where they had a chance to unwind, network, and share experiences. The cornhole tournament brought out the competitive spirit, with participants playing for the championship title. The fun continued during the bingo and Garden State trivia sessions, testing participants’ knowledge and luck. The caricature artist added a personalized touch to the day, creating custom portraits for attendees to take home. Realtor®-Palooza was a remarkable success, providing Realtors® with a distinctive mix of learning, networking, and enjoyment. We were delighted to see many new faces and hope you’ll join us again next year.
B O A R D / A S S O C I AT I O N N E W S
Celebrating Hispanic Homeownership
Greater Bergen Realtors® Diversity, Equity and Inclusion committee, in conjunction with the Global Business Council committee, co-hosted their annual Hispanic Heritage Month salute, Fiesta Latina: Celebrating Homeownership during Hispanic Heritage Month in October at La Havana 59 in Moonachie. In extension of Hispanic Heritage Month, GBR hosted a complimentary special continuing education class in October for over 80 members. The bilingual, hybrid class, Helping Hispanic Immigrants with The Purchasing Process, provided members with insight into working with Hispanic immigrant clients throughout a real estate transaction, and highlighted the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion within the real estate industry.
Promoting Affordable Housing and Neighborhood Development
In partnership with New Jersey Realtors® Housing Opportunity Foundation, NEXUS Association of Realtors® donated money to St. Joseph’s Carpenter Society, an organization with the mission to promote affordable housing and neighborhood development for the city of Camden. NEXUS also worked with the organization in September to help a family of new homeowners beautify their landscaping.
Licensing, Continuing Education & Exam Prep Courses & Seminars
NEXUS Associations of Realtors® President Brenda Richmond presents $1,500 to the St. Joseph’s Carpenter Society.
Greater Bergen Realtors® Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month
MORR Raises Over $21,000 for Jersey Shore Children
Metro Centre Association of Realtors® 2023 Community Service Committee recently held a food drive that will be distributed through the REPLENISH Food Bank, filling 19 bins that will impact families in need across Middlesex County.
The Monmouth Ocean Regional Realtors® Associates Committee raised over $21,000 at their annual Fall Fundraiser Dinner for The Dream Factory of the Jersey Shore. The Dream Factory is the largest children’s wish-granting organization that strives to provide hope and relief from the trauma and corresponding stress that both the children and their families can endure on a day-to-day basis.
Community Service Committee members work to collect food for the REPLENISH Food Bank.
The MORR Associates Committee presents their $21,000 check to The Dream Factory of the Jersey Shore.
Realtors® Hold Food Drive in Middlesex County
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