FAQ - JerseyHomz.com

Q: What is the first step in the home-buying process?

Getting pre-approved for a mortgage is the first step of the home-buying process. Getting a pre-approval letter from a lender gets the ball rolling in the right direction.

Q: How long does it take to buy a home?

From start (searching on-line) to finish (closing), buying a home takes about 10-12 weeks. Once a home is selected and an offer is accepted, the average time to complete contract to close is 45-60 days (under normal market conditions). Though, well-prepared home buyers who pay cash have been known to purchase properties faster than that.

Q: What is a seller's market?

In seller's markets, increasing demand for home drives up prices. Here are some of the drivers of demand: economic factors lower interest rates low inventory

Q: What is a buyer's market?

A buyer's market is characterized by declining home prices and reduced demand. Several factors may affect long-term and short-term buyer demand, like: economic disruption higher interest rates high inventory natural disasters

Q: What kind of credit score do I need to buy a home?

Most loan programs require a FICO score of 650 or better. Borrowers with higher credit scores represent less risk to the lender, often resulting in a lower down payment requirement and better interest rate. Conversely, home shoppers with lower credit scores may need to bring more money to the table (or accept a higher interest rate) to offset the lender's risk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are some of my most commonly asked questions. If you don't see you question on the list, please contact me or call/text me at 908.399.3582.

What markets do you cover?

I cover Hunterdon, Morris, Somerset and Warren Counties. I specialize in Hunterdon County properties.

What is the first step in the home-buying process?

How long does it take to buy a home?

What is a seller's market?

What is a buyer's market?

What kind of credit score do I need to buy a home?

How much do I need for a down payment?

While the broad down payment average is 11%, first time homebuyers usually only put down 3 to 5% on a home. That’s because several first-time home buyer programs don’t require big down payments. A longtime favorite, the FHA loan, requires 3.5% down. What’s more, some programs allow down payment contributions from family members in the form of a gift.

Some programs require even less. VA loans and USDA loans can be made with zero down. However, these programs are more restrictive. VA loans are only made to former or current military servicemembers. USDA loans are only available to low to-middle income buyers in USDA-eligible rural areas

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Call Joseph Right Now!

It was a great pleasure working with you on the sale of the Beaver Brook Condo in this most difficult and challenging housing market. Many thanks to you for your outstanding service, market knowledge and effort.

Ingobert R. (Pittstown)

Joe was very knowledgeable, responsive, patient and most of all a pleasure to work with. Highly recommend him for all your realtor needs.

Joe S. (Long Valley)

As a first-time homebuyer in a fast-moving market, Joe always made himself available to set up appointments, proactively send me relevant listings, answer all my questions, and show up to every showing. Joe constantly looked out for my interests, and the whole home buying experience was better because of him. I highly recommend working with Joe.

Vikki O. (Annandale)

I was nervous about selling my house as I heard stories about terrible agents. Joe was professional and very helpful throughout the selling process. He answered my many questions and kept me in the loop. I would highly recommend Joe.

Kathy W. (Pittstown)

Joe Tersigni was very helpful and really understood this challenging market. He was also patient and made us feel comfortable in getting our new home.

John P. (Bloomsbury)

I can say without a doubt that Joseph is a standout and truly brings his passion for the industry to his clients. We cannot recommend working with him enough! Thanks Joe!

Rich & Kelsey W. (Hampton)

Joseph Tersigni was amazing. From the very beginning, Joseph made us feel very comfortable working with him. He also demonstrated a high sense of ethics as a dual agent. Even more, he helped make sure all parties did as they promised in a timely manner. Finally, he always made time to meet us at the property, literally rain, snow, and freezing weather. I highly recommend Joseph and JerseyHomz!

Josae & Satoko W. (Washington Twp.)

I listed my home with Joseph and he did NOT disappoint. He worked extremely hard to attract the best buyer possible for my home. I will highly recommend using Joe to all of my family, friends and colleagues.

George J. (Washington Twp.)

Joseph was such a pleasure to work with. He was receptive, persistent, and very patient and accommodating to our needs. We highly recommend utilizing him as your realtor, and we look forward to working with him in the future.

Erin S. (Clinton Twp.)

Joseph guided us through the entire process and we finally got our dream home.

Amanda P. (Bloomsbury)

My wife and I used Joe as our realtor and had an amazing experience. Joe was able to sell our house significantly over asking price, coordinate key activities, and was always accessible. Separately, he helped us purchase our new dream home, which came with the same wonderful service. We strongly recommend Joe to all who are looking for a realtor. Joe is extremely talented, has a quick response time, and truly cares for his clients.

Daniel C. (High Bridge)

I cannot recommend Joe enough, if you want to work with someone you can trust who has integrity and honesty like no other, then Joe is someone you should consider, you won’t be disappointed.

Nicholas M. (Annandale)

Joe’s genuine concern for his clients made the stressful process of selling much easier. I would definitely look to Joe again for a next purchase or sale. Easily said, Go with Joe!