Joseph Romano's (jromano) Blog

Would you spend $30,000 on a car without first researching all of the models and available options that best fit your needs? Of course not. That's why, as your real estate agent, I'm recommending that you use the Internet to research all you can as a first-time homebuyer. If you don't know where ...

First-time homebuyers have to content with a cadre of financial and lending details.  So, I wanted to take a moment to help you understand some of the finer points. When you decide on a lender (whether it's a bank, a credit union, or a mortgage lender), be sure to get every detail in writing. Spe...

As you consider the purchase of your first home, don't stop after inspecting the property. Examine the surrounding area. I recommend asking some detailed questions. Is it safe and well maintained? Is it a convenient location for you? Close to schools, shopping and work? Ask about the zoning laws ...

I know that you want to purchase a home of which you can be proud. Curb appeal is a powerful force, but it can also be the first-time buyers kryptonite. When it comes to buying your first home, being ruled by your emotions will leave you vulnerable. To counter its effect, you must be objective an...

The New Jersey Association of Realtors had some positive things to say about The Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008 that was signed into law on July 30th. This measure will certainly have a positive impact on families and the economy here in New Jersey. In fact, when a home is sold in New ...

Blog...Blog...Again(Keeping up on your updates - you're the expert!)     You know it... you've heard it... you've probably even said it... BLOG! The phenomenon of the web log (blog for short) has revolutionized media, the internet and has even been known to sway popular opinion. But how? Why? Wh...

Another issue to be aware of in new construction is the subdivision neighborhood. Generally, developers buy pastures and turn them into subdivisions. Of course, large plots of land are hard to find near the city center, so new subdivision neighborhoods are often relegated to the outskirts of town...

Buying a new home in today's real estate market is just as complicated, if not more, than buying an existing home. The Internet is filled with websites set-up by consumers who either ended up with defective new homes, or whose builders went completely out of business before their home was complet...

As a first-time home buyer, to help you keep your sanity, I'd like to make a quick recommendation: Do as much planning as possible. From the moment you think about buying a home, start planning. First, start by requesting a copy of your credit report. Please call me if you need help with this, as...

As a first-time homebuyer, you're facing many questions about homeownership. Can I afford it? Will I qualify for financing? Where should I live? I wanted to take a minute and outline five distinct benefits of owning a home, for your consideration: 1. Pride of Ownership. Owning your own home gives...