New Jersey Realtor® Magazine—November/December 2023

NEW JERSEY

REALTOR

®

November/December 2023: VOLUME 9 ISSUE 6

BRING SUCCESS HOME

Meet the Lieutenant Governor Tahesha L. Way Pages 26-27

2023 Realtors® Triple Play Schedule Pages 16-18

NJREALTOR.COM

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We wish you all the gifts of the season, joy, love, peace and health.

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NEW JERSEY REALTOR® A publication of New Jersey Realtors®

10 Hamilton Avenue Trenton, NJ 08611 Phone: 609-341-7100 njrealtor.com Jarrod C. Grasso, RCE Chief Executive Officer PUBLIC RELATIONS AND MARKETING DEPARTMENT

12

20

CONTENTS

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

3 Top Speakers to See at #TP23

Nick Manis

President

4 President’s View:

Gloria Monks

President-Elect

Kathy Morin

First Vice President

Gloria Siciliano

Treasurer

2023 OFFICERS

November/December 2023

Discover Your Leadership Potential

20

5 CEO’s Desk:

ADVERTISING SALES Laura Lemos | 973-668-2449

New Jersey Realtors® Is Your Key to Success

laura@boja.com DESIGN Rebecca Ryan McQuigg | Encompass Media Group rebecca@encompasspubs.com

estate related topics solely for the use of its members.

Due to the wide range of issues affecting its members,

8 Legislative Update:

issues that NJ Realtors®, in its sole discretion, deems the most important for its members.

advertisements by persons not employed by or agents of NJ Realtor® are the sole responsibility of their author. NJ Realtors® disclaims any liability or responsibility for their content or accuracy. Where such articles and/or advertisements contain legal

10

advice or standards, NJ Realtors® recommends that

Tech Column: AI: Taking the World (and Triple Play) By Storm

Conference Schedule

Sustainability and Real Estate: What Agents Need to Know

LEED Certification: Building a Sustainable Future

26

Meet the Decision Maker: Lieutenant Governor and New Jersey Secretary of State Tahesha L. Way

28

Board/Association News

Discover Top Industry Issues at Triple Play

NJ Realtors® publishes information concerning those

The content and accuracy of all articles and/or

24

6 Important Dates & Deadlines

New Jersey Realtors® provides legal and legislative updates as well as information on a variety of real

16

Sudoku puzzle solution:

NJ Realtors seek legal counsel with regard to any ®

specific situation to which they may seek to apply the article.

New Jersey Realtor®, publication number 13260, ISSN number 00285919. Published bi-monthly each year.

12 Town Spotlight: Montclair

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.

14 Realtors® Care: A Recap of 2023 Realtors® Care Day

POSTMASTER: Send address change to Editor, 10 Hamilton Avenue, Trenton, NJ 08611.

NJRealtors

@NJ_Realtors

2 | NEW JERSEY REALTOR® | November/December 2023

@njrealtors

NJRealtors

NJ Realtors

editor@njrealtor.com

TOP SPEAKERS TO SEE AT #TP23 Realtors® Triple Play is back Dec. 4-7 at the Atlantic City Convention Center.

Visit realtorstripleplay.com to register and add these speaker’s sessions to your schedule.

MARKI LEMONS-RYHAL Marki Lemons Unlimited provides courses, training, and seminars to individuals, groups, associations, banks, government entities, and municipalities on social media. As a fifth-generation entrepreneur, Marki takes a business approach to her classes, and is always seeking new and creative ways to increase an organization’s bottom line through education.

SEAN CARPENTER Originally licensed as a Realtor in 1998, Sean Carpenter is the former Agent Development Director for the Ohio NRT companies. He jumped back into a sales role with Coldwell Banker serving buyers and sellers throughout Central Ohio.

He founded Sean Speaks in 2018 to expand his speaking, consulting, and facilitation opportunities. ®

PAULA MONTHOFER One blistery summer evening after a hard day of work at the Singing Banana Singing Telegram Company in New Jersey, a much younger Paula dreamed of owning property. Now a home and investment property owner; she is also a Realtor®, was 2017 Arizona Association of Realtors® President, and 2019 NAR RVP, a national speaker, and a prolevel pasta eater.

JOSHUA CADILLAC Josh Cadillac is a top-selling agent, real estate coach, national speaker, investor, developer, and author who trains RE professionals on how to ‘Close for Life’ by building lasting success through extensive knowledge. He gives agents the education they need to not just close the deal and survive in this industry, but how to create loyal customers that would never do business with anyone other than you.

TRISTA CURZYDLO After serving as Assistant Legal Counsel to Kansas Gov. Bill Graves, Trista joined the office of the District Attorney for the 18th Judicial District of Kansas as an Assistant District Attorney assigned to the Consumer Fraud division. For six years, Trista was the Government Affairs Director and Legal Counsel for the Wichita Area Association of Realtors® and the South Central Kansas MLS.

Attend Marki’s Sessions: Building an Ethical AI-Driven Real Estate Industry Dec. 4, 12-3 p.m.

Leveraging AI to Improve Your Customer Experience in Real Estate Dec. 5, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

Attend Sean’s Sessions: Leave Your Mark—How to Earn Top of Mind Awareness from Your Customers, Clients, and Community Dec. 6, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

Satisfying the Seller—How to Secure, Serve, and Succeed with Sellers Dec. 6, 2-5 p.m.

Attend Paula’s Sessions: Ignite Your Fire—Transform to Thrive Dec. 6, 9-10 a.m.

Calm the Fork Down Dec. 6, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Do the Right Thing! The Code of Ethics and Fair Housing Dec. 6, 2-5 p.m. and Dec. 7, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

Attend Josh’s Sessions: Introduction to Commercial Real Estate: What You Need to Know Dec. 5, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

The ACE Property Manager Dec. 5, 2-5 p.m.

Distressed Properties: Foreclosures, Estates, Divorces, Short Sales & Pre-Estate Sales Dec. 6, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

Attend Trista’s Sessions: There’s No Font for Sarcasm…Managing a Multi-Generational Workplace Dec. 5, 9-10 a.m.

You Can’t Say That! Antitrust in Real Estate Dec. 5, 3-4:30 p.m.

AITA: The Real Estate Edition Dec. 6, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

You TwitFace: When Real Estate, New Media and the Law Collide Dec. 6, 2-5 p.m.

NEW JERSEY REALTOR® | November/December 2023 | 3

PRESIDENT’S VIEW

Discover Your Leadership Potential

BY NICK MANIS

A

s experienced real estate professionals, we’re not just familiar with the intricacies of our field; we live and breathe it. What we do goes beyond the housing market and transactions—it’s a realm where leadership takes center stage, shaping the path of our industry and our association while propelling them forward. It’s with great enthusiasm that I introduce the brand-new New Jersey Realtors® Leadership Academy, an eight-month program comprising of five sessions and we will only accept 12 Realtor® members.

We aim to inspire Realtor® members who share a profound passion for the real estate industry and a keen interest in leadership, encouraging them to unlock their full potential.

This program is your ticket to honing a diverse set of skills, from finding your unique voice and mastering effective communication to the art of public speaking and the power of teamwork. Developing leadership skills isn’t just about personal growth or holding a position; it’s about equipping aspiring leaders with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the complex real estate landscape and lead it toward a brighter future. The academy will equip you with newfound tools and skills needed to engage in deeper and more meaningful conversations, cultivating an atmosphere

4 | NEW JERSEY REALTOR ® | November/December 2023

of collaboration and stronger connections with your fellow members. When you complete the program, you’ll carry with you not only these valuable skills, but also a clear set of goals and a well-defined plan to achieve them.

By nurturing leadership today, we are laying the foundation for a more resilient and innovative real estate landscape tomorrow. I invite you to consider joining us on this exciting journey. Through New Jersey Realtors® Leadership Academy, you’ll receive the guidance and support needed to discover your leadership potential and become a guiding force within our industry—and we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Apply now at njrealtor.com/leadership-academy. A $250 deposit is required to apply, and anyone not accepted will be reimbursed. Tuition for the accepted applicants will be $1,000.

I can’t wait to see what the inaugural class will accomplish.

FROM THE CEO’S DESK

New Jersey Realtors® is Your Key to Success I

n today’s limited inventory market paired with higher prices and higher mortgage interest rates, a Realtor® membership is your key to finding success in the industry. With the leading transaction management software, a powerful advocacy arm, the most comprehensive housing market data in the state, and so much more—New Jersey Realtors® is here to help your bottom line and beyond.

Here are 8 ways your New Jersey Realtors® membership helps you save:

$209

Streamline Your Transaction Management: Your Realtor® membership includes free access to our premium Transaction Management Software and e-signature tools, which would cost you $199 per year. Plus, access your transaction information on the go with the mobile edition which is $10 per year.

$78

Learn on a Budget: Cut your continuing education costs mandated to keep your license by $78. As a member, you receive free or low-cost access to online self-paced courses, while nonmembers pay $3.50 per credit—an average savings of $6.50 per credit.

$330

$18

Gain Legal Peace of Mind: Obtain invaluable legal support at no extra cost.

The average lawyer’s hourly rate in New Jersey is $330, but members can access New Jersey Realtors® Legal Resource Library at any time and submit legalrelated questions at no cost.

Market the Realtor® Value to Consumers: $18 is New Jersey Realtors® cost to advertise to every 1,000 consumers and encourage them to use a Realtor® when buying, selling, or renting a home in New Jersey.

$80

Experience the Triple Play Advantage: New Jersey Realtors® members enjoy an exclusive $80 savings on registration for the Triple Play Realtor® Convention & Trade Expo, providing access to a wide range of bestin-class sessions and events, with many offering continuing education credits included with your registration.

Amp Up Your Social Media Game: New Jersey Realtor® members have free access to Photofy, a content management tool, to help them create and schedule social media posts. Without a New Jersey Realtors® membership, you would pay $23.88 per year for Photofy. Members also have access to free customizable social media templates to help them save time.

$1,000

$10

Advocate for the Industry: The Realtors® Political Action Committee’s advocacy efforts save you from potential tax hikes such as a tax on commissions.

Without RPAC’s opposition to commission taxes, Realtors® could owe over $1,000 in taxes on a 3% commission on the average-priced home sold in New Jersey, on top of their regular income taxes.

$23.88

Keep Up With Industry Trends: Members receive a free subscription to New Jersey Realtor® Magazine to help them stay in the know about real estate trends, legislative issues, and more. The typical subscription price is $10 per year for nonmembers of the association.

NEW JERSEY REALTOR® | November/December 2023 | 5

I M P O R TA N T D AT E S & D E A D L I N E S

NOVEMBER American Indian Heritage Month

1 NJ Realtors Annual ®

Women’s Conference

7 Election Day 10 NJ Realtors Office ®

Closed—Veterans Day

11 Veterans Day 12 Diwali 23-24 NJ Realtors Office

DECEMBER

4-7 Triple Play Realtor

®

Convention & Trade Expo

7-15 Hannukah

JANUARY

FEBRUARY

1 NJ Realtors Office

Black History Month

®

Closed—New Year’s Day

9 Board of Directors Meeting

24 Christmas Eve 25 NJ Realtors Office

15 NJ Realtors Office ®

Closed—Martin Luther King Jr. Day

2 Groundhog Day 13 Mardi Gras 14 Ash Wednesday

Closed—Christmas Day

14 Valentine’s Day

26 Kwanzaa Begins

19 NJ Realtors Office

®

®

Closed—Presidents’ Day

31 New Year’s Eve

®

Closed—Thanksgiving

In commercial real estate financing, “experience” is what matters most. Commercial Mortgage Depot (CMD) is a nationwide commercial real estate financing firm. We offer wholesale first mortgage commercial loans as a direct lender. We also have the flexibility to tailor the right loan product for the borrower, as a correspondent or agent, through our investor network Our highly trained, knowledgeable staff examines each transaction to place it in the best program based on your unique scenario. We understand the complexity of a commercial transaction in today's market and most importantly, we have the relationships with lenders, investors and banks to close deals efficiently and quickly.

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L E G I S L AT I V E U P D AT E

DISCOVER TOP INDUSTRY ISSUES AT TRIPLE PLAY Learn the ins and outs of vital legislative issues such as flood insurance, advertising rules, LLC rules, and more at the 2023 Triple Play Realtor® Convention & Trade Expo Dec. 4-7.

Here are our top session choices to attend—we’ll see you there!

MONDAY

DEC. 4, 2023

Business Entities for Agents: LLC or S-Corp?

11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Gregory Antipoff

Danger Zones: The Intersection of Advertising and Fair Housing Law 12-3 p.m.

Cheryl Knowlton

This crucial real estate course addresses the critical intersection of advertising and fair housing laws. Participants will learn about protected classes, discriminatory advertising practices, and the legal and ethical implications of non-compliant advertising. With expert instruction, participants will leave this course with the knowledge, skills, and tools they need to develop compliant and effective advertising strategies that resonate with diverse audiences.

TUESDAY

Can I save taxes by running my real estate business as a Limited Liability Company? What about an S-Corporation? Join us in this session so you can stop relying on internet communities for your tax advice and finally get a definitive answer. Spoiler alert–there is no one size fits all solution—come find out which entity will maximize your tax savings.

Furry Babies and Fair Housing: What Real Estate Agents Must Know About Service Animals and ADA Compliance in Residential Real Estate 2:30-4:30 p.m.

Frederick Buehler

Distressed sales are never easy; someone or something is usually in distress. Learn how to work these deals without becoming the one in distress. While the volume of distressed sales tends to rise and fall with the market, they never truly disappear. These properties aren’t limited to foreclosures and short sales; they can result from divorces, estates, or other situations. Discover skills that can increase the likelihood of closing your deal—and you are less likely to need medication.

NJ Legal Update 10-11 a.m.

New Jersey Realtors® Chief Counsel Barry Goodman

Flood Insurance and Flooding Recovery 9:30-11:30 a.m. and 2:30-2:30 p.m.

Brent Lancaster

8 | NEW JERSEY REALTOR ® | November/December 2023

DEC. 6, 2023

Distressed Properties: Foreclosures, Estates, Divorces, Short Sales & Pre-Estate Sales 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

Joshua Cadillac

DEC. 5, 2023

This session explores how flooding and flood insurance play a role in the value of a property. Learn more about the important features of the National Flood Insurance Program policy every agent needs to know, discover how to protect your buyers in purchasing a previously flooded home, and learn how to list and promote previously flooded homes.

WEDNESDAY

Learn everything you need to know about ensuring compliance with the ADA, providing service to clients with disabilities, and successfully navigating any challenges related to service animals in residential rentals. Gain an understanding of the obligations of landlords and property managers under the ADA, the reasonable accommodation process, exceptions and exemptions, and strategies to effectively navigate conflicts that may arise between landlords and tenants with service animals.

Join New Jersey Realtors®’ chief counsel for an update on New Jersey legal issues affecting all licensees.

The session will be followed by a brief question-and-answer period.

L E G I S L AT I V E U P D AT E

THURSDAY

Mold, Meth, Murder, and Mayhem: The Importance of Real Estate Disclosure 2-5 p.m.

Cheryl Knowlton

DEC. 7, 2023 Housing Opportunity for All: Inclusion and Solutions 9:30-11:30 a.m.

Laurie Benner

This course is for real estate professionals who want to understand the legal and ethical requirements of property disclosure. The course explores the dark side of real estate disclosures, including murder, mayhem, and other crimes. Participants will learn how to identify and disclose other potential factors such as violent crime, suicides, or hauntings. This course is critical for those who want to provide accurate information to clients.

RPAC

OF NEW

JERSEY 2023 RPAC Goal:

$1,110,000 The racial homeownership and wealth gaps are higher today than when the Fair Housing Act was passed in 1968. In this session, we’ll explore the history of housing in the U.S. and its modern-day impacts, followed by a solutions-focused conversation to help industry professionals best serve the communities they serve.

2023 RPAC Dollars Raised:

$977,482

as of Oct. 12, 2023

N E W J E R S E Y L E G I S L AT I V E B I L L S A4869 –Lopez (D19), Verrelli (D15)/S3401 – Zwicker (D16)

A5246 – Stanley (D18), Atkins (D20)/ S3585 – Singleton (D7)

A5300 – Barranco (R26), Sauickie (R12)/S3684 – Oroho (R24)

Establishes DEP fund for Blue Acres acquisition and relocation projects; appropriates $25 million.

Requires expanded use of affordable housing voucher program for homeownership expense assistance.

New Jersey Realtors® Position:

STRONG SUPPORT

“Energy Security and Affordability Act” requires BPU to consider energy security, diversity and affordability when preparing Energy Master Plan and perform economic and ratepayer impact analysis of energy generation projects and Energy Master Plan.

SUPPORT

We support this bill as it provides a revenue source for the Blue Acres program without diverting revenues from the realty transfer fee.

Bill History: 11/14/2022 – Introduced in Assembly and referred to Assembly Environment and Solid Waste Committee 12/8/2022 – Reported out of Assembly committee and referred to Assembly Homeland Security and State Preparedness Committee 12/19/20222 – Introduced in Senate and referred to Senate Environment and Energy Committee

New Jersey Realtors® Position:

We strongly support this bill as it will expand the use of these housing vouchers beyond rentals to homeownership opportunities.

Bill History: 2/13/2023 – Introduced in Senate and referred to Senate Community and Urban Affairs Committee 2/28/2023 – Introduced in Assembly and referred to Assembly Housing Committee 3/2/2023 – Reported out of Senate committee and referred to Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee 3/20/2023 – Reported out of Assembly committee and referred to Assembly Appropriations Committee

New Jersey Realtors® Position:

SUPPORT

We support this bill to ensure certain measures are taken into consideration concerning the New Jersey Energy Master Plan including the economic costs to New Jersey residents associated with its provisions.

Bill History: 2/28/2023 – Introduced in Senate and referred to Senate Environment and Energy Committee 3/16/2023 – Introduced in Assembly and referred to Assembly Environment and Solid Waste Committee

NEW JERSEY REALTOR® | November/December 2023 | 9

TECH COLUMN

AI:

Taking the World (and Triple Play) By Storm

BY WILLIAM THOMPSON, NJ REALTORS® DIRECTOR OF TECHNOLOGY

Who’s attending Triple Play Realtor® Convention & Trade Expo this December 4-7? I’ll be there and so should you! This year, at conventions across the country, we’re seeing one topic pack rooms like none other: Artificial Intelligence. AI is a technology with the power to change the world, and we’re quickly seeing it introduced in new, exciting, and sometimes scary ways. Here are my top must-see sessions at Triple Play this year.

Find more information and register today at realtorstripleplay.com.

AI FOR REAL ESTATE SIMPLIFIED

Jeff Lobb, Founder/CEO, SparkTank Media Monday, Dec. 4 – 12:30 p.m.

Embracing the AI revolution is no longer a choice, but a necessity for today’s real estate professionals. In this session, Jeff Lobb, a distinguished figure with over three decades of experience in real estate, guides you through the latest AI tools and applications tailored for the industry.

Discover how to seamlessly integrate these technologies into your workflow, transforming complexities into streamlined processes to elevate client experiences. Jeff’s expertise comes from a unique blend of hands-on real estate experience and a decade-long tenure in Internet Technology and Sales Management with both Fortune 500® giants and dynamic startups. Leave with not only invaluable knowledge, but also a complimentary e-book encompassing all the tools and strategies discussed.

10 | NEW JERSEY REALTOR ® | November/December 2023

AI, CHATGPT AND REAL ESTATE

Craig Grant, CEO, RETI Tuesday, Dec. 5 – 10 a.m.

The landscape of AI has seen a huge shift with the introduction of ChatGPT, Jasper, Bard, and other generative AI services. In this session, you’ll explore AI’s applications and potential impact on both your professional and personal life. You’ll also navigate through legal and ethical considerations of using AI in your business.

Led by Craig Grant, a luminary in technology, marketing, and cybersecurity, this session promises to equip you with a comprehensive understanding of this rapidly evolving technology, ensuring you stay at the forefront of innovation.

TECH COLUMN

BUILDING AN ETHICAL AIDRIVEN REAL ESTATE INDUSTRY

CHATGPT IS COMING FOR YOUR JOB (AND THAT’S A GOOD THING)

AI has the potential to reshape the real estate industry, but it also brings light to issues surrounding privacy, data security, and fair housing. In this session, you’ll navigate the practical applications and effective strategies for harnessing AI tools while still upholding ethical and responsible practices.

Led by Marki Lemons-Ryhal, an entrepreneur and expert in social media education, Marki’s unique business-oriented approach ensures a holistic understanding of how to integrate AI ethically, ultimately contributing to your real estate business.

The rapid advancements in ChatGPT and other AI tools over the past year have set the stage for a transformative shift in the real estate landscape. While this technology poses a fundamental challenge to professionals who simply handle paperwork and give tours, it presents a remarkable opportunity for agents ready to embrace the next generation of real estate.

In this exhilarating session, Chris Linsell, a seasoned real estate professional with over 13 years of hands-on experience, as he unravels precisely how this paradigm shift can be harnessed for positive change.

Marki Lemons-Ryhal, Realtor® Monday, Dec. 4 – 12 p.m.

Chris Linsell, Real Estate Technologist Wednesday, Dec. 6 – 9:30 a.m.

ME, MYSELF & AI—EVOLVE, ELEVATE & EDUCATE WITH AUTOMATED INTELLIGENCE

Jeremias “JMan” Maneiro, Global Speaker Wednesday, Dec. 6 – 9 a.m.

Embark on a journey to elevate your real estate career with the power of AI. In this session, Jeremias “JMan” Maneiro, a tech-savvy millennial with a passion for empowering individuals across generations, will guide you through the potential of AI in the ever-evolving real estate industry.

Gain insights on how to harness AI, master its tools, and significantly enhance client engagement.

Dive into hands-on exercises and draw inspiration from real-world case studies. Don’t miss this golden opportunity to revolutionize your real estate business with the power of AI! NEW JERSEY REALTOR® | November/December 2023 | 11

Montclair A Town with Something for Everyone

BY ERIN McFEETERS

P

erched on the East slope of the Watchung Mountain, just under 16 miles from Times Square, New York City, Montclair has the best of what New Jersey has to offer—historic communities, diversity, a walkable downtown, convenient access to public transportation, a rich arts scene, and so much more.

“Montclair is a kaleidoscope of nationalities and ethnicities that have contributed to the development of the multicultural community that we experience here in Montclair today,” said Montclair History Center Executive Director Angela Diggs. “When looking at Montclair over the last 150+ years we see the shifts and changes of people into this community.”

According to Diggs, the Montclair area was inhabited by Lenni Lenape until the English and Dutch settled in the 1700s.

Migration waves continued in the 1800s,

12 | NEW JERSEY REALTOR ® | November/December 2023

Photo courtesy of The Wright Group at Christie’s Montclair–Yantacaw Brook Park

TOWN SPOTLIGHT

Photo courtesy of The Wright Group at Christie’s Montclair–CU Church Street Cafe Giotto

Photo courtesy of The Montlclair Foundation–Van Vleck House Entrance

and brought many Irish and Swedish families. The establishment of trains for cross-country travel shaped the town even further as many looked to Montclair for more opportunities for their families to prosper.

The township’s diversity and culture are prevalent amongst its restaurants, which feature fare from Italian to Brazilian, and events such as the Montclair Film Festival, Montclair Jazz Festival, the African American Heritage Parade and Festival, and more.

While Montclair’s ties to art cultivate a unique community feel amongst its nearly 40,000 residents, according to Diggs, Montclair always has something to offer for everyone. Whether it’s seeing a new exhibit at the Montclair Art Museum, attending a Winter Wonderland Open House at the Montclair History Center, or buying tickets for an upcoming show at the

Photo courtesy of The Montlclair Foundation–Van Vleck Fairy Trail

Wellmont Theater, there’s always something to do.

“People take pride in contributing to a community where everyone has a place to belong and bring something to the table,” said Diggs. “Montclair’s history speaks to an ever-changing community, and we are seeing that again today, but at the core of it is that Montclair has something special to offer whether to its longtime residents or the newcomers it’s a space to set down your roots.”

TOWN SPOTLIGHT Walking distance from downtown, The Van Vleck House & Gardens was formerly the private estate of the Van Vleck Family and today houses the Montclair Foundation, which provides grants to local charities to support health, educational, cultural, and quality of life needs in the Montclair community.

The garden grounds are free to visit and filled with plants and flowers blooming throughout the year, making each visit a unique experience.

Visit their Facebook page for a weekly update on what’s blooming.

Throughout the year, they also provide nature and wellness classes to adults and children in the community, host educational events for families to enjoy, and even hold plant sale fundraisers well-known to the area.

According to Eileen Lundberg, Communications Manager at the Van Vleck House & Gardens, in addition to groups gathering at the garden’s community events, Montclair is home to countless smaller community groups for residents to connect and get involved.

“Neighbors really know their neighbors and look out for each other. Many streets have annual block parties or text groups to stay in touch. People with similar passions like writing, music, art, or sports tend to find each other and build communities,” said Lundberg. “Being involved in the Montclair school PTAs was a great way for me to meet other families when my kids were younger, even though I commuted to work in Manhattan. My neighbors and friends here have been so wonderful I really can’t imagine living anywhere else.”

For clients looking to move out of the city or looking for a more walkable community with restaurants and places to explore easily in reach, Montclair might just be the place.

“As most of the homes in Montclair were built in the earlier part of last century, there is even a very helpful Facebook group for ‘clueless homeowners’ looking for advice and resources,” said Lundberg. “Montclair Public Library is a true community resource and treasure trove for residents. Depending on a newcomer’s interests, there are plenty of wonderful organizations for volunteers to get involved and meet new people.”

“The Montclair real estate market is dynamic and impressive with extremely competitive market conditions, often resulting in multiple bid scenarios,” said Wright.

For clients searching in the townhouse-condo market segment, the median sales price is $317,000 year-to-date, with 20 new listings year-to-date.

Photo courtsey of the Montclair History Center–Lackawanna Train Station

Photo courtesy of Montclair Public Library Local History–Italian Laborers

According to New Jersey Realtors® August 2023 housing market data reports, single family homes in Montclair are on the market for just 20 days yearto-date. Like much of the state, inventory is down, with 219 single family home new listings year-to-date, and sales prices are up, with the single family median sales price clocking in at $1,385,000.

“Montclair has become one of the hottest suburbs outside NYC, striking the perfect balance of city and suburb.

It’s famous for attracting creatives, athletes, celebrities, and titans of industry,” said Realtor®, Broker Associate, and Founder of The Wright Group at Christie’s Montclair Curtis J. Wright.

While single family home prices in Montclair are higher than the state median, demand remains prevalent, with homes receiving 123.8% of the list price.

With a quick commute to New York City, and new projects on the horizon in the next five years, Wright predicts Montclair will continue to grow in popularity amongst home searchers.

“We see Montclair continuing to blossom into one of the most desirable towns not only in the Garden State but the entire country. We’ve helped clients make cross-country moves and overseas buyers find homes they love,” said Wright. “Montclair is a welcoming community to live, work, dine, and play in such close proximity to New York City. There are lots of developments in the works that will continue to expand the town’s reach, and of course, Montclair State University also brings a vibrant energy with college students in town.”

NEW JERSEY REALTOR® | November/December 2023 | 13

Realtors® Care: A Recap of 2023 Realtors® Care Day

2023

BY LISA FANT

R

ealtors® Care Day, a cherished tradition, offers Realtor® volunteers the chance to uplift communities through various projects like landscaping, repairs, and safety enhancements. This year, the initiative expanded into Realtors® Care Week from Sept. 18 to Sept. 22. Volunteers from seven local boards rolled up their sleeves to beautify residents’ homes and improve local neighborhoods, nearly doubling this year’s participation compared to last year.

Here’s a closer look at the remarkable efforts of each participating board:

NEXUS Association of Realtors®

Monmouth Ocean Regional Realtors®

On Sept. 19, Monmouth Ocean Regional Realtors® collaborated with Coastal Habitat for Humanity on a house build, sharing heartfelt well wishes inscribed on beams.

Cumberland County Association of Realtors®

North Central Jersey Association of Realtors®

Despite the scorching heat, 25 dedicated volunteers and staff gathered at a West Orange home for a Realtors® Care Day project. Volunteers cleaned the shed, trimmed overgrown weeds, mowed the lawn, planted new flowers, and tackled painting, siding, and deck repairs. The homeowner expressed immense gratitude for their hard work and kindness.

Monmouth Ocean Regional Realtors®

NEXUS Association of Realtors®

Cape May County Association of Realtors®

The NEXUS Realtors Community Service Committee and Young Professionals Network dedicated Sept. 20 to Realtors® Care Day. Volunteers convened at two properties to plant flowers, mulch, and rake leaves for a senior in Waretown, as well as new homeowners in Camden.

The Cape May County Association of Realtors® matched a $1,000 grant from New Jersey Realtors® Housing Opportunity Foundation to complete an upcoming Habitat for Humanity Cape May County project.

Cumberland County Association of Realtors

Volunteers from CORE Association of Realtors® dedicated their Realtors® Care Day to service at Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore in Hamilton and Manville. Volunteers worked diligently to clean, unload, and assemble donated home goods and materials for local communities.

®

®

In Millville, a team of 18 volunteers from the Cumberland County Association of Realtors® transformed an elderly resident’s property. Their efforts included lawn cleanup and gardening, lending a helping hand where it was needed most.

14 | NEW JERSEY REALTOR ® | November/December 2023

CORE Association of Realtors®

CORE Association of Realtors®

Greater Bergen Realtors®

The Greater Bergen Realtors® Community Service Committee, in collaboration with New Jersey Realtors® Housing Opportunity Foundation, made a significant impact during their Realtors® Care Day 2023 project.

Volunteers undertook exterior and cosmetic repairs for a local Bergenfield homeowner facing health issues.

Their work included fresh coats of paint, gutter system repairs, safety modifications, landscaping trims, and a complete yard cleanup.

Greater Bergen Realtors®

This year, Realtors® Care Week showcased the profound dedication of Realtor® volunteers and their commitment to making a positive difference. With hammers, nails, and boundless compassion, they revitalized homes and neighborhoods, leaving a lasting mark on communities.

Special thanks go to Coldwell Banker, the Statewide Event Title Sponsor, for their vital support in making this expanded initiative possible. Together, Realtors® across New Jersey are making a difference.

THEY GO TO COLDWELL BANKER REALTY Partner with the largest team of top, industry-recognized real estate professionals – collaborate with the best minds in the industry at Coldwell Banker Realty.

Visit coldwellbankercareers.com Any affiliation by you with the Company is intended to be that of an independent contractor sales associate, not an employee. ©2023 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logo are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker® System is comprised of company owned offices which are owned by a subsidiary of Anywhere Advisors LLC and franchised offices which are 23A6JJ_NJ_9/23 independently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act.

23A6JJ CB NJ Realtors Magazine - Great Minds Print Ad.indd 1

10/3/23 8:54 AM

NEW JERSEY REALTOR® | November/December 2023 | 15

CONFERENCE SCHEDULE SPECIALTY ADD-ON COURSES MONDAY, DEC. 4 Pre-registration by 11/24 required.

8:30 A.M. – 4:30 P.M.

8:30 A.M. – 4:30 P.M.

REBI: Marketing the Listing Adorna Carroll

PSA: Pricing Strategy Advisor: Mastering the CMA Kim Allard

$195

9:00 A.M. – 4:00 P.M. $195

8:30 A.M. – 4:30 P.M.

8:30 A.M. – 4:30 P.M.

AHWD: At Home With Diversity Robert Morris $195

MRP: Military Relocation Professional Patty Badia $195

8:30 A.M. – 4:30 P.M.

8:30 A.M. – 4:30 P.M. SFR: Short Sales & Foreclosures: What Real Estate Professionals Need to Know Frederick Buehler $195

BROKERS/MANAGERS TUESDAY, DEC. 5 There’s No Font For Sarcasm…Managing a Multi-Generational Workplace Trista Curzydlo, Esq. FREE

10:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. FREE

Policies, Practices & Protection: Does Your Handbook Have What it Takes?

Wendy Christie FREE

3:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. FREE

3:30 P.M. – 5:00 P.M.

10:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M.

Introduction to Commercial Real Estate: What You Need to Know Josh Cadillac FREE

FREE

FREE

FREE

9:00 A.M. – 10:30 A.M.

RPR Commercial: Your Secret Weapon to Commercial Success Joseph Gehl FREE

16 | NEW JERSEY REALTOR ® | November/December 2023

What was My Appraiser Thinking?

Zoe Liston FREE

9:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M.

2:30 P.M. – 4:30 P.M.

FREE

FREE

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 6

9:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M.

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 6

Best Practices for Progressive Discipline and Termination Wendy Christie

Size Matters Zoe Liston

THURSDAY, DEC. 7

The Power 1031 Exchanges Margo McDonnell

FREE

2:00 P.M. – 5:00 P.M.

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 6

Basics of Commercial Financing Dan Sterba FREE

11:30 A.M. – 1:00 P.M.

How to Read an Appraisal Zoe Liston

10:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M.

2:00 P.M. – 5:00 P.M.

Mitigating the Risk of Sexual Harassment and Workplace Violence Wendy Christie FREE

Advertising, On-Boarding and RetentionThe Key to Lowering your Turnover Wendy Christie FREE

Bias Override: Overcoming Barriers to Fair Housing Diana Bustamante $50

TUESDAY, DEC. 5

9:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M.

The ACE Property Manager Josh Cadillac

1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M.

APPRAISERS

10:00 A.M. – 11:00 A.M.

1:00 P.M. – 2:30 P.M.

Demographics are Destiny Lisa Sturtevant

COMMERCIAL PRACTITIONERS

Elements of 1031 Exchanges Randy Templeman

$50

$195

TUESDAY, DEC. 5

9:00 A.M. – 10:00 A.M.

Field Ramifications of the MLS/DOJ Lawsuits Adorna Carroll

RRC: Residential Real Estate Probate Specialist Alexis Bolin/Buddy West

Professional Standards Administrators Training Hank Lerner/Charity Murray/ Teresa Tilton

1:00 P.M. – 5:00 P.M.

Understanding Sellers Concessions/ Sellers Credits/Lenders Credits and Discount Points

Doug Vairo

FREE

TRACK KEY Appraisal Association Executive Broker/Manager Commercial Designation Legal/Tax/ Environmental/Ethics Professional Development Sales/Marketing Technology Wellness Schedule is subject to change.

REAL ESTATE CE SESSIONS MONDAY, DEC. 4 12:00 P.M. – 3:00 P.M. Building an Ethical AI Driven Real Estate Industry Marki Lemons Ryhal 12:00 P.M. – 3:00 P.M. Danger Zones: The Intersection of Advertising and Fair Housing Law Cheryl Knowlton 1:00 P.M. – 3:00 P.M. Top Scams Targeting the Real Estate Industry Craig Grant

REAL ESTATE CE SESSIONS 9:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. Who’s In Charge Here?

Lessons in Licensee Duties and Broker Supervision Hank Lerner/Kacy Clouser 9:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. Under All is the Land Leigh York 9:30 A.M. – 11:30 A.M. Flood Insurance and Flooding Recovery Brent Lancaster 10:00 A.M. – 11:00 A.M. Elements of 1031 Exchanges Randy Templeman 10:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. DEI & Implicit Bias for Real Estate Brittany Matott 10:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. How to Read an Appraisal Zoe Liston 10:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. Weeding Through the Complexities: Understanding the Impact of Marijuana Legalization and Property Values Fredrick Buehler 2:00 P.M. – 3:00 P.M. Reasonable & Necessary? Fair Housing Accommodations Trista Curzydlo, Esq.

TUESDAY, DEC. 5

2:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Top Scams Targeting the Real Estate Industry Craig Grant

9:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. 10 Ways to Avoid Mortgage Fraud (and Prison) Cheryl Knowlton

2:00 P.M. – 5:00 P.M. 246 Things That Can Go Wrong in a Real Estate Transaction Cheryl Knowlton

9:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. Auction Essentials for Real Estate Professionals Tim Keller

2:00 P.M. – 5:00 P.M. Who’s In Charge Here?

Lessons in Licensee Duties and Broker Supervision Hank Lerner/Kacy Clouser

9:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. Introduction to Commercial Real Estate: What You Need to Know Josh Cadillac 9:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. Leveraging AI to Improve Your Customer Experience in Real Estate Marki Lemons Ryhal 9:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. Navigating the New Construction & Rehab Process with Ease Monica Neubauer

2:00 P.M. – 5:00 P.M. Size Matters Zoe Liston 2:00 P.M. – 5:00 P.M. The ACE Property Manager Josh Cadillac 2:00 P.M. – 5:00 P.M. Under All is the Land Leigh York 2:30 P.M. – 4:30 P.M. Flood Insurance and Flooding Recovery Brent Lancaster

Continuing Education (CE) Credit All CE credit is pending approval. CE credit is free for attendees who provide license number(s) when registering and attend 100 percent of a session. New PA licensees who are renewing for the first time are required to complete mandatory courses which are not offered at Triple Play.

2:30 P.M. – 4:30 P.M. Furry Babies and Fair Housing: What Real Estate Agents Must Know About Service Animals and ADA Compliance in Residential Real Estate Fredrick Buehler 3:00 P.M. – 5:00 P.M. Real Estate Investment Assessment Randy Templeman 3:00 P.M. – 5:00 P.M. REALTOR® Safety Brittany Matott 3:30 P.M. – 4:30 P.M. You Can’t Say That!

Antitrust in Real Estate

Trista Curzydlo, Esq. WEDNESDAY, DEC. 6 9:00 A.M. – 11:00 A.M. 50 Ways to Use RPR® to Better Serve Buyers and Sellers Veronica McManus 9:00 A.M. – 11:00 A.M. PA Legal Update Hank Lerner, Esq./Kacy Clouser 9:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. AITA: The Real Estate Edition Trista Curzydlo, Esq. 9:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. Distressed Properties: Foreclosures, Estates, Divorces, Short Sales & PreEstate Sales Josh Cadillac

10:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. What was My Appraiser Thinking?

Zoe Liston 10:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. Whose Fiduciary Are You Anyway? Demystifying the Law of Agency: A Comprehensive Guide for Real Estate Professionals Fredrick Buehler 1:00 P.M. – 5:00 P.M. Basics of Commercial Financing Dan Sterba 2:00 P.M. – 3:00 P.M. The FHA and Emotional Support Animals and Service Animals Kristina Bergsten, Esq. 2:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. REALTOR® Safety is NO Joke!

Janet Judd 2:00 P.M. – 5:00 P.M. Distressed Properties: 8 Ways a Compassionate REALTOR® Can Help Coni Meyers 2:00 P.M. – 5:00 P.M. Do the Right Thing!

The Code of Ethics and Fair Housing Paula Monthofer 2:00 P.M. – 5:00 P.M. How to Read and Understand an Energy Assessment Report Matthew Dean

9:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. Do Well by Doing Good: Preparedness and Sustainability Coni Meyers

2:00 P.M. – 5:00 P.M. Mold, Meth, Murder, and Mayhem: The Importance of Real Estate Disclosure Cheryl Knowlton

9:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. Effectively Managing the Risks of Renting Jamie Borodin

2:00 P.M. – 5:00 P.M. Satisfying the Seller: How to Secure, Serve, and Succeed with Sellers Sean Carpenter

9:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. The Ethical REALTOR®– From Disclosure to Due Diligence: Understanding Our 6 Fiduciary Duties Cheryl Knowlton 9:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. The Power 1031 Exchanges Margo McDonnell 9:30 A.M. – 11:30 A.M. Bank on Real Estate to Fund Your Retirement Bernice Ross 10:00 A.M. – 11:00 A.M. New Jersey Legal Update Barry Goodman, Esq.

2:00 P.M. – 5:00 P.M. You TwitFace: When Real Estate, New Media and the Law Collide Trista Curzydlo, Esq. 2:30 P.M. – 4:30 P.M. Demystifying the Confusion Around Detached/Site Condominium Ownership Bernice Ross 2:30 P.M. – 4:30 P.M. RPR Commercial: Your Secret Weapon to Commercial Success Joseph Gehl

10:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. REALTOR® Safety is NO Joke!

Janet Judd

NEW JERSEY REALTOR® | November/December 2023 | 17

REAL ESTATE CE SESSIONS WEDNESDAY, DEC. 6 3:00 P.M. – 5:00 P.M. The Battle for Commission: Navigating the Code of Ethics and What Real Estate Agents Need to Know About Procuring Cause Fredrick Buehler Fredrick BuehlerDEC. 7 THURSDAY, 9:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. Do the Right Thing! The Code of Ethics and Fair Housing Paula Monthofer 9:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. Nillions to Millions Robert Oppenheimer 9:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. Succeeding in a Shifting Market with First Time Home Buyers Lakesha White 9:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. Understanding Sellers Concessions/Sellers Credits, Lenders Credits/and Discount Points Doug Vairo 9:30 A.M. – 11:30 A.M. Housing Opportunity for All: Inclusion and Solutions

Laurie Benner

NON-CE SESSIONS MONDAY, DEC. 4 12:30 P.M. – 1:30 P.M. AI for Real Estate Simplified Jeff Lobb 1:00 P.M. – 2:30 P.M. Every Market is Good For Somebody!

Bill Fields

NON-CE SESSIONS 9:00 A.M. – 10:00 A.M. There’s No Font For Sarcasm…

Managing a Multi-Generational Workplace Trista Curzydlo, Esq. 10:00 A.M. – 11:00 A.M. CRUSH IT!! Strategies to Kick Off 2024 Strong!

Jairo Rodriguez/Jorge Aviles/ Kevin Iglesias/Carey Smith 10:00 A.M. – 11:00 A.M. Inflection Points: How Today’s Buyer’s are Responding to a Changing Market David Arbit 10:00 A.M. – 11:00 A.M. Keep More of Your Paycheck: Tax Strategies for Agents Gregory Antipoff 10:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. AI, ChatGPT and Real Estate Craig Grant 10:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. Field Ramifications of the MLS/DOJ Lawsuits Adorna Carroll 11:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. Hot Market, Cool Head: Creative Strategies for Working with Buyers in Any Market Ifoma Pierre 11:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. Mental Health and Wellness: Handling Employee Disengagement, Toxic People, Burnout & Fatigue Preethi Fernando 11:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. Millennials– The Now Big Thing Brandon Johnson 11:30 A.M. – 12:30 P.M. Business Entities for Agents: LLC or S-Corp?

Gregory Antipoff

2:00 P.M. – 3:00 P.M. 35 Ways to Avoid Burnout Ashley Harwood

1:00 P.M. – 2:30 P.M. Policies, Practices & Protection: Does Your Handbook Have What it Takes?

Wendy Christie

2:00 P.M. – 3:00 P.M. The Art of Hosting Successful “POWER” Open Houses Jeff Lobb

2:00 P.M. – 3:00 P.M. Adapt or Evaporate: Reinvent Your Lead Generation & Marketing Ifoma Pierre

TUESDAY, DEC. 5

2:00 P.M. – 3:00 P.M. How Not to Be a Robot in a Digital World Heather Haase

9:00 A.M. – 10:00 A.M. Adapt or Evaporate: Reinvent Your Lead Generation & Marketing Ifoma Pierre 9:00 A.M. – 10:00 A.M. Define Your Niche To Transform Your Business Brandon Johnson

2:00 P.M. – 3:00 P.M. Investment Options for Agents Gregory Antipoff

18 | NEW JERSEY REALTOR ® | November/December 2023

2:00 P.M. – 3:00 P.M. Mindfulness and Self Care: Slowing Down to Speed Up Preethi Fernando 2:30 P.M. – 3:30 P.M. The “Do’s and Don’ts” of Working with Special Needs Clients John Young 3:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Demographics are Destiny Lisa Sturtevant 3:00 P.M. – 4:30 P.M. Maintain Market Relevance in Our Digital Era – 2024 Edition John Reyes

10:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. 7 Steps to Create Raving Fans! How to Earn Client Loyalty & Massive Referrals in a Changing Market!

Keri Zoumas 11:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. Calm the Fork Down Paula Monthofer 11:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. Real Estate’s Crystal Ball: Big Data & Predictive Analytics Jeremias “JMan” Maneiro 11:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. Short but Sweet, from TikTok to Reels to Shorts Heather Haase

3:30 P.M. – 5:00 P.M. Mitigating the Risk of Sexual Harassment and Workplace Violence Wendy Christie

11:30 A.M. – 12:30 A.M. 5 Mistakes New REALTORS® Make That Cost Them Dearly (And How to Avoid Them) Chris Linsell

4:00 P.M. – 5:00 P.M. Tax Advantages for Agents Investing in Real Estate Gregory Antipoff

11:30 A.M. – 1:00 P.M. Best Practices for Progressive Discipline and Termination Wendy Christie

4:00 P.M. – 5:00 P.M. Hot Market, Cool Head: Creative Strategies for Working with Buyers in Any Market Ifoma Pierre

12:00 P.M. – 1:00 P.M. Power Up Your Prospecting & Promotion with RPR! Veronica McManus

4:00 P.M. – 5:00 P.M. Short but Sweet, from TikTok to Reels to Shorts Heather Haase

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 6 9:00 A.M. – 10:00 A.M. How Not to Be a Robot in a Digital World Heather Haase 9:00 A.M. – 10:00 A.M. Ignite Your Fire – Transform to Thrive Paula Monthofer 9:00 A.M. – 10:00 A.M. Me, Myself & AI - Evolve, Elevate & Educate with Automated Intelligence Jeremias “JMan” Maneiro 9:00 A.M. – 10:30 A.M. Advertising, On-Boarding and Retention - The Key to Lowering Your Turnover Wendy Christie 9:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. Leave Your Mark – How to Earn Top of Mind Awareness from Your Customers, Clients, and Community Sean Carpenter 9:30 A.M. – 10:30 A.M. ChatGPT is Coming for Your Job (And That’s a Good Thing) Chris Linsell

2:00 P.M. – 3:00 P.M. Have it All! Create Balance, Boundaries and Big Business!

Keri Zoumas 2:00 P.M. – 3:00 P.M. REALTORS® as Leaders: Why Your Community Need Your Voice Chris Linsell 2:00 P.M. – 3:00 P.M. Turning Likes Into Leads Ed Stulak 2:00 P.M. – 3:00 P.M. Your First Year as a REALTOR®: How to Build Your Business Quickly Shay Hata 2:00 P.M. – 5:00 P.M. YPN Mastermind Session 2:30 P.M. – 3:30 P.M. Virtual Reality, Real Results: Master the Metaverse & Boost Your Real Estate Game Jeremias “JMan” Maneiro 3:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. The Untapped Money Potential of the Rental Market Michael Lucarelli 4:00 P.M. – 5:00 P.M. Attracting More Buyers and Earning Referrals from Past Buyers Shay Hata

Sustainability and Real Estate: What Agents Need to Know

BY MICHELE LERNER

W

hen Christine Liaukus wanted to improve her home’s performance and value along with taking steps to eventually run it entirely with electricity rather than use fossil fuels, she was able to fund the updates with what she said was “essentially free money.”

“New Jersey has a great Home Performance with ENERGY STAR program that pairs tax credits with rebates for things like heat pumps and upgrading your electrical panel,” said Christine Liaukus, an architect at the Center for Building Knowledge at the New Jersey Institute of Technology in Newark. “I used that program on my 1926 Tudor-style house to have an energy audit. I followed their recommendations to add dense pack cellulose insulation, air sealing in the attic and basement, and bought a new water heater.”

The $14,000 of work was covered by a $4,000 rebate and a $10,000 interest-free loan.

“They try to work out the payment so that it matches the savings on your energy bill, so for me it was about $68 a month,” said Liaukus. “Once the loan is repaid, you get the full benefit of energy savings.”

20 | NEW JERSEY REALTOR ® | November/December 2023

Whether it’s driven by a desire to save money on utilities or a broader commitment to sustainability, homeowners can be part of the solution to reduce their environmental impact—and real estate professionals can help educate their clients about innovations and programs that can improve their home’s comfort, lower their utility costs, raise their home’s value, and get ahead of the curve of anticipated code changes.

To meet the U.S. commitment to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030 and achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, builders, developers, and homeowners are likely to see increased focus on energy efficient upgrades.

In fact, the Energy Department estimates all buildings, including homes and commercial buildings, account for 40% of the nation’s total energy use.

New Jersey ranked 14th in the country on the 2022 State Energy Efficiency Scorecard by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy, a nonprofit organization dedicated to energy research. The state adopted high standards for the energy efficiency of appliances and the use of low-flow faucets and established targets to reduce electric and natural gas use.

Sustainability Trends

Builders and homeowners can take advantage of innovations and trends to reduce their carbon footprint. One recent trend emphasizes the benefits of electrification.

“Converting to an all-electric house–or building all-electric houses–is one of the greatest improvements builders and homeowners can make,” said Liaukus. “But it’s important to recognize that upgrading to more energy efficient systems works best in a building that is air sealed and well insulated.”

energy efficient,” said Arabia. “Buyers are educated in this area, and they want to know about these things.”

Arabia suggests real estate agents selling older but upgraded homes get a full list of the upgrades with details including the R-rating of the insulation and windows, the model number of the heat pump, and the dates of all upgrades.

“That way you have the information immediately if buyers ask for it,” said Arabia. “If you’re working with buyers, ask for a seller disclosure with a complete and detailed list of upgrades.”

In addition, owners of older homes may have to upgrade their electrical panel so it can handle an all-electric house, said Liaukus. She recommends the RewiringAmerica.org site for more resources on electrification.

Real estate agents can provide education about energy efficient features to buyers and sellers, said Jill Biggs, a Realtor-Associate® with Coldwell Banker Realty in Hoboken.

Real estate agents may want to recommend what Liaukus calls an “opportunistic retrofit” to their clients.

“The more things people can see and understand, the easier it is to make a property stand out,” said Biggs.

“When a homeowner plans to upgrade their siding, finish an attic or expand their house with an addition, they can add insulation while the walls are open,” said Liaukus.

“We’re researching new options such as ‘renew-wall,’ which provides two inches of rigid insulation that can be installed underneath new siding, and high-performance windows that can be installed over existing windows.”

Many homes are built or retrofit with heat pumps, said Liaukus, which have significantly improved in recent years and provide excellent comfort in New Jersey and in colder climates.

While solar panels are not mandatory on new construction in New Jersey as they are in California, many homeowners and builders are adding solar energy to their homes, said David Arabia, Realtor® and broker/owner of Corcoran Infinity Properties in Alpine.

Ancillary Benefits to Energy Upgrades

While some buyers and builders focus on the environmental benefits of energy upgrades, others may be more interested in the long-term benefits of saving money on their utility bills. Sustainability upgrades have other advantages, too.

“Triple glazed energy efficient windows keep the sound out, which is very important in the dense urban markets where I sell,” said Biggs. “When I’m showing a condo, I open and shut the windows so the buyers can hear the difference.”

“Extra insulation offers similar noise abatement benefits,” said Biggs.

“The Passive House program, which has very stringent requirements for energy performance, is popular not just because of the energy efficiency, but because they are comfortable and quiet homes,” said Liaukus.

Many buyers, especially of older homes, ask about the utility bills and the types of upgrades the homeowners have made to the property, said Arabia.

“Both newly built homes and existing homes can be constructed or retrofit to meet several levels of energy efficiency such as ENERGY STAR certified, Zero Energy Ready or Zero Energy Ready with Renewable Energy, which includes solar panels,” said Liaukus. Zero Energy and Passive House programs refer to homes that are wellinsulated, sited to maximize natural light and shade in different seasons, and can produce as much energy with solar power as they use.

“The biggest upgrades they want to know about are whether the windows and appliances are energy efficient and whether the heating and air conditioning system is

“In addition to the quiet and comfort of well-designed homes, many buyers are interested in saving space and in wellness benefits. For example, induction stoves contribute to

“Solar panels are very popular on high end homes depending on the way the roof faces,” said Arabia. “If the house faces south in the back, it’s much easier to put solar panels on without impacting the aesthetics of the house.”

Buyers, Sellers, and Sustainability

NEW JERSEY REALTOR® | November/December 2023 | 21

Sustainability Programs for New Jersey Residents

Whether you’re working with buyers who may want to make home improvements or homeowners considering presale renovations, you can be a source of information about state and federal programs that provide financial incentives for making sustainable choices.

Some resources for you to learn about and to share with your clients include: • New Jersey Clean Energy njcleanenergy.com/rnc Rebates are available for homeowners who choose energy efficient appliances and heating and air conditioning systems, recycle their appliances, or participate in the Home Performance with ENERGY STAR program.

Each of these programs is run by electric and gas utility companies in the state. Contact information for utility companies can be found on the New Jersey Clean Energy Site.

• A quick home energy check-up can be performed by a Building Performance Institute certified auditor in a customer’s home. The auditor can make recommendations for no-cost energy savings techniques as well as discuss other options to improve a home’s energy efficiency.

The audit can be arranged through a customer’s utility company.

• The Home Performance with ENERGY STAR program offers homeowners the opportunity to work with their utility company to identify larger projects to improve the sustainability of their home. The utility company can help them find rebates, tax credits, and other financial tools to help pay for home improvements.

• Federal tax credits. The Inflation Reduction Act provides numerous tax credits for energy efficient upgrades energystar.gov/about/federal_tax_credits to homes dating back to Jan. 1, 2023 through Dec. 31, 2032. Real estate agents and consumers can also search for tax credits by Zip Code on the ENERGY STAR site.

Tax credits for home improvements are typically 30% of the project cost, with limits for individual projects ranging from $600 for energy efficient central air conditioning, hot water boilers, furnaces, gas water heaters and new windows to as much as $2,000 for heat pumps, wood stoves, and heat pump water heaters. Overall, homeowners may qualify for up to $3,200 annually in tax credits. In addition, the Residential Clean Energy tax credit provides a 30% tax credit for upgrades such as geothermal heat pumps, electrical panel upgrades, solar energy systems including battery storage, and small wind turbines.

22 | NEW JERSEY REALTOR ® | November/December 2023

better indoor air quality and, because they are cool to the touch, are safer than gas or traditional electric stoves,” said Liaukus.

“Condo buyers like tankless water heaters, too, because they save space, not just because they’re more energy efficient,” said Biggs.

New Construction and Sustainability

Builders are incentivized by some local programs to add green features to condos and single-family homes and many jurisdictions have codes that require specific sustainability measures to be met. For example, in condo buildings, builders who add a “green roof ” with plants to their building are typically allowed to use more of the overall roof for a deck for residents.

In high-end condos in Jersey City and Hoboken, buyers expect their new homes to have “bells and whistles” that offer a more comfortable home environment, said Biggs.

“Buyer expectations are different now,” said Biggs. “They expect green features to be in newer homes and they expect smart home features so they can control their home from their phone even if they’re away. It’s saving energy, but it’s also convenient.”

Many custom home buyers opt for multiple zones of heating and air conditioning and upgraded insulation to reduce their energy use and for a more comfortable home, said Arabia.

As technology changes and building codes are adapted, real estate agents will need to stay educated about the upgrades buyers and sellers need to understand.

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 NEW JERSEY REALTOR® | November/December 2023 | 23

LEED

Certification: Building a Sustainable Future

BY LISA FANT Photo courtesy of DMR Architects

S

ustainability is on the rise in the real estate sector, driven by homebuyers’ preferences for eco-friendly properties and environmentally conscious building practices. With the pressing global issues of climate change, resource depletion, and the need for more sustainable alternatives, sustainability is now a top priority. It’s no longer an option but a necessity, fundamentally reshaping how architectural firms approach their projects.

Chief Operations Officer and Partner at DMR Architects in Hasbrouck Heights, Pradeep Kapoor, AIA, LEED AP BD+C, is recognized as an early champion of sustainable design as one of the first architects in New Jersey to achieve LEED accreditation. Crediting a longstanding interest and passion for sustainable design, Kapoor significantly expanded the firm’s sustainable design portfolio, including projects at certified, silver, and gold levels, such as Carlstadt Elementary School, the first LEED Silver public school in New Jersey.

Among many sustainability initiatives and projects, LEED certification stands out as a symbol of excellence in architectural sustainability. LEED, which stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, is a globally recognized third-party standard for designing, constructing, and operating high-performance green buildings and neighborhoods. This program employs a point-based rating system, with designations like silver, gold, and platinum levels based on the total points earned during the assessment. To attain LEED certification, a project must meet specific prerequisites and accumulate points in various categories, including carbon, energy, water, waste, transportation, materials, health, and indoor environmental quality.

24 | NEW JERSEY REALTOR ® | November/December 2023

“It’s about building holistically. It’s not just about saving energy and water, but the quality of the building,” said Kapoor. “The system considers everything from the use of locally sourced materials to minimize the carbon footprint associated with transportation and supporting the local economy to resource conservation strategies like collecting rainwater to reduce water demand.”

The specific LEED certification process and rating system are dependent on the project’s category—commercial, neighborhood development, residential, or cities and communities; however, the process generally includes the following steps: 1. Registration: The process begins with registering the project with the Green Building Certification Institute to officially start the certification process.

2. Selecting LEED Category: The project team must determine the appropriate LEED category.

3. Goal Setting: Project teams must establish their sustainability goals and objectives. The goal should determine the desired level of LEED certification (Certified, Silver, Gold, or Platinum).

The total number of points required to meet each level of LEED certification are: a. Certified: 40-49 points b. Silver: 50-59 points c. Gold: 60-79 points d. Platinum: 80+ 4. Preliminary Review: The project team will review the project plan, and then proceed with design development, design completion, and construction commencement.

5. Documentation: The project team must provide detailed documentation for each LEED credit they

aim to achieve. Documentation can include plans, calculations, and specifications.

6. LEED Review: GBCI conducts an official review of the project’s documentation, assessing whether the project meets the necessary prerequisites and qualifies for the selected credits.

7. Certification: Once GBCI approves the project’s compliance with LEED standards, the project earns LEED certification at the appropriate level (Certified, Silver, Gold, or Platinum).

While the process may initially appear demanding, it is integral to crafting environmentally responsible structures.

In a world where sustainable design has become the new standard, achieving LEED certification sets a benchmark for sustainability that not only benefits the environment but also enhances the long-term value and appeal of the project. While LEED represents the highest sustainability standards, projects don’t require LEED certification to integrate sustainability.

“Sustainability is at the core of our projects, regardless of whether our clients are working towards LEED certification from the USGBC,” said Kapoor. “We keep in mind that one project can inspire many others.”

school has energy or that the items they recycle become materials.”

With the rise in LEED certification recognition in the real estate industry, more real estate professionals are embracing sustainable design benefits. This awareness is driving their growing interest in sustainable practices and the unique advantages they offer. “Real estate developers and agents are now promoting buildings and attracting clients and tenants to buildings that are visually appealing, but also have reduced operating costs due to resource efficiency,” said Kapoor. “What many people don’t know is there’s a LEED rating system for existing buildings. The certification isn’t only for new builds.”

By adopting a comprehensive approach to sustainable design prioritizing health and safety, office spaces, schools, and residential dwellings have undergone a transformation, resulting in more welcoming spaces and less impact on natural resources. The shift towards transit-oriented design is fostering the development of walkable plazas and neighborhoods. Although these concepts have always been present, there is now a newfound emphasis on their creation and implementation.

One of the standout projects within DMR Architects’ portfolio is the renowned Carlstadt Elementary School in Bergen County. During the school’s initial design phase in the early 2000s, there were fewer than 10 LEED-certified buildings in New Jersey. “Pursuing the certification back then was more of a challenge than it is today,” said Kapoor.

“Most people just weren’t aware of it.”

By choosing to align with these groundbreaking guidelines, now adopted by more than 2,200 structures throughout the state, the project showcased a forward-looking commitment to sustainable construction and the enhanced well-being of its occupants. Carlstadt Elementary School became the 26th building to meet LEED standards in the state, earning the prestigious distinction of being the first LEED Silver public school in New Jersey and the pioneering LEED-certified building in Bergen County.

The school presented an opportunity to educate the community about sustainable architecture practices and how green design contributes to the well-being and quality of life of the building occupants and the broader community. “It’s about education and why these architects are committing themselves to this initiative,” said Kapoor.

Additionally, DMR created a curriculum to teach Carlstadt students about the school’s eco-friendly features.

“We want the students to see that because of the sun, the NEW JERSEY REALTOR® | November/December 2023 | 25

Realtors® Q&A

Meet the Decision Makers

LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR AND NEW JERSEY SECRETARY OF STATE

TAHESHA L. WAY

W

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 Lieutenant Governor and New Jersey Secretary of State Tahesha L. Way. Her verbatim responses are italicized below. Do you have an idea of someone you’d like to see us interview? Email editor@njrealtor.com since Governor Murphy appointed me in September. My husband Charles is a Realtor® and we have four daughters.

What does the job of LG entail?

Tahesha L. Way

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

I have been interested in public service since college, which led me to law school. I began working in private practice as a young attorney, but quickly found opportunities to serve my community. Over the course of my career, I have served as a County Freeholder, as a member of the Highlands Water Protection and Planning Council, as Special Counsel for the Passaic County Board of Social Services, and as an Administrative Law Judge for New Jersey. I’ve served as New Jersey’s Secretary of State since 2018 and as Lieutenant Governor

As Lieutenant Governor, I serve as a partner for Governor Murphy, working together to further the administration’s efforts towards building a stronger, fairer, more inclusive New Jersey. In my role, I step in to serve as Acting Governor if Governor Murphy leaves the state on business.

I look forward to furthering the legacy of my friend and predecessor, Sheila Oliver, while putting my own stamp on this role.

In New Jersey, the Lieutenant Governor also serves as a member of the Governor’s cabinet. I continue to lead the Department of State, where I oversee New Jersey’s elections, arts, history, culture, tourism, as well as aspects of business support and economic development.

26 | NEW JERSEY REALTOR ® | November/December 2023

What have you been working on that will help the real estate market?

In my capacity as Secretary of State, I oversee the New Jersey Business Action Center, the State’s liaison to the business community of the Garden State. NJBAC ensures access to free resources and services to bolster economic development and help businesses grow and thrive via a variety of offices, including the Office of State Planning. Right now, the OSP’s State Planning Commission is in the process of updating and implementing the State Development and Redevelopment Plan (also known as the “State Plan”) which is designed to represent a balance of development and conservation objectives best suited to meet economic development needs and aspirations. The State Plan provides a comprehensive framework intended to guide future development, redevelopment, conservation, preservation, and restoration efforts in the state of New Jersey. The updated State Plan will provide helpful guidance for many agencies and industries. The real estate sector will certainly benefit; Realtors® will be

TOP FIVE QUESTIONS 1. able to easily determine where to promote development and to understand environmental factors early in their sales process so that they can be addressed accordingly.

What other issues have you been tackling?

Elections continue to be a critical part of my policy portfolio. New Jersey has statewide elections every year, so my team at the Division of Elections and I are always preparing for the next opportunity to vote. We work with our partners in county election offices—as well as county, state, and federal law enforcement, cybersecurity, postal service, and even public health offices—to ensure that every eligible voter can vote in free, fair, and secure elections.

We have worked together to protect our democracy while making it easier to be a voter in New Jersey.

New Jersey has three ways that every voter can vote: at your

Does Central NJ exist? Yes, Central Jersey exists and my Division of Travel and Tourism is going to be sharing special maps and itineraries to help explore the region.

local polling 2. Go-To Pizza Topping: Pepperoni place on Election Day, 3. Pork Roll or Taylor Ham: Taylor Ham at a county early voting site 4. Favorite Sports Team: NY Giants (my during the early husband played for them!) voting period, or with 5. Dead or Alive, who is someone you a mail-in ballot at your would want to meet? Beyonce convenience. I urge every New Jersey voter to visit vote.nj.gov to make your plan to vote and educate yourself on how our elections work.

New Jersey will receive our fair share of funding for key projects What is the most impactful like infrastructure, transportation, public policy project you’ve healthcare, public safety, education worked on? and social programs. Census data As Secretary of State, I led our effort helps public and private sector to get New Jersey to respond to the entities plan for the future, identify 2020 Census. We built a coalition population trends, understand of partners across government, community demographics, and business, non-profit, and community more. A full response to the Census leaders. At the height of the allows us to have a better picture pandemic, we were able to record of our state and the needs of our our state’s best Census response residents and businesses for the in 30 years. The results ensured next decade. that we retain our Congressional representation in Congress (some states lost representation in the House of Representatives following the Census). It also means that NEW JERSEY REALTOR® | November/December 2023 | 27

B O A R D / A S S O C I AT I O N N E W S

CORE Realtors® Day of Service

CORE Association of Realtors volunteers dedicated their hearts and time to CORE’s Day of Service at Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore in Hamilton and Manville. Volunteers helped clean, unload, and assemble donated home goods and materials for local communities. ®

Greater Bergen Realtors® YPN Hosts Sunset Charity Event

Greater Bergen Realtors® Young Professionals Network hosted “Sunset at Ivy & Green” in Hackensack with the goal of benefitting Kids Against Hunger, helping feed impoverished children locally and internationally. Attendees enjoyed a happy hour at the new Ivy & Green luxury apartments, complete with private tours by Hornrock Properties, who shared exciting future building endeavors in Bergen County. The event achieved 40,000 meals packed for Kids Against Hunger, moving the YPN closer to its 50,000-meal goal.

Realtors® volunteer at their local Habitat for Humanity ReStore.

NEXUS Realtors® Master Self-Defense

In September, NEXUS Association of Realtors® members attended a hands-on self-defense session at Haduko Academy in Haddonfield. The session equipped Realtors® with essential self-defense tactics. All ticket proceeds from the event supported the Realtors® Political Action Committee.

40,000 meals packed for impoverished children.

SUDOKU

Have a few minutes? Challenge yourself!

Members learned self-defense practices in support of RPAC.

Want to be featured in NJ Realtor® Magazine?

Email editor@njrealtor.com with your local board/ association news.

Puzzle provided by sudokuoftheday.com. Get the answers to the puzzle on page 2.

28 | NEW JERSEY REALTOR ® | November/December 2023

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NJRealtors Statement of Ownership

@NJ_Realtors

@njrealtors NJRealtors NJ Realtors

1. New Jersey Realtor® 2. Publication #13260 3. Filing date: 08/14/2023 4. Issue frequency: bimonthly. 5. 6 issues per year. 6. $3. 7. Complete Mailing Address of Known office of publication:10 Hamilton Avenue, Trenton, NJ 08611. Contact person: Colleen King Oliver, 609-341-7111. 8.

Complete mailing address of headquarters or general business office: 10 Hamilton Avenue, Trenton, NJ 08611-1806. 9. Full Name and Complete Mailing Address of Publisher: New Jersey Realtors® 10 Hamilton Avenue, Trenton, NJ 08611. Editor: Erin McFeeters 10 Hamilton Avenue, Trenton NJ, 08611 Telephone 609-341-7126. Managing Editor: Colleen King Oliver 10 Hamilton Avenue, Trenton NJ, 08611. 10. Owner: New Jersey Realtors® 10 Hamilton Avenue, Trenton, NJ 08611. 11.

None. 12. Tax status has not changed during preceding 12 months. 13. Publication title: New Jersey Realtor® 14. Issue date July/August 2023. 15. Extent and nature of publication: Provides legal and legislative updates and other information on real estate topics. Average no. copies during preceding 12 months | No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date—15a. 59,019 | 56,997. a(1) Mailed outside county paid subscriptions: 58,848 | 56,794. a(2-4) 0 | 0. 15c. Total paid distribution: 58,848 | 56,794. 15d(1-4) Free or Nominal Rate Distribution 0 | 0. 15e. Total Free or Nominal Rate Distribution: 171 | 203. 15f. Total distribution: 59,019 | 56,997. 15g. Copies not distributed: 0 | 0.

15h. Total: 59,019 | 56,997. 15i. Percent paid: 99.71% | 99.64%. 16. Electronic copy circulation is present.16a. 0 | 0. 16b. Total Paid Print Copies + Paid Electronic Copies: 58,848 | 56,794. 16c. Total Print Distribution + Paid Electronic Copies: 59,019 | 56,997. 16d. Percentage Paid: 99.71% | 99.64%.

X I certify that 50% of all my distribution copies (electronic and print) are paid above nominal price.

17. Publication of Statement of Ownership: If the publication is a general publication, publication of this statement is required. Will be printed in the November/December 2023 issue of this publication.

18. Signed by Erin McFeeters, Deputy Director of Public Relations & Marketing, 08/14/2023.

NEW JERSEY REALTOR® | November/December 2023 | 29

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