Residential Real Estate
South Jersey

New Jersey law (N.J.A.C. 11:5-6.4) requires all licensed real estate agents to provide every consumer with a Consumer Information Statement before any substantive real estate discussion. The CIS explains the different types of agency relationships available in New Jersey, including seller agency, buyer agency, transaction brokerage, and disclosed dual agency, so you understand who your agent represents before you share any confidential information. We provide this document at the start of every relationship.

Yes. Real estate commissions in New Jersey are fully negotiable and are not fixed by law, regulation, the NJ Real Estate Commission, or any real estate organization. The compensation paid to a broker is determined solely by agreement between the client and the broker. We encourage an open conversation about compensation at the beginning of every relationship. Under federal antitrust law, no standard commission rate exists in the industry.

Disclosed dual agency occurs when a single broker represents both the buyer and seller in the same transaction. Under New Jersey law, this is only permitted with the informed written consent of all parties (N.J.A.C. 11:5-6.4). In a dual agency arrangement, the agent cannot exclusively advocate for either party and cannot share confidential information between parties. We fully disclose any potential dual agency situation and obtain written consent before proceeding.

In a buyer agency relationship, your agent represents your interests exclusively, including negotiating price, contract terms, inspection contingencies, and closing conditions on your behalf. Under New Jersey law, a buyer's agent owes you the fiduciary duties of loyalty, confidentiality, disclosure, obedience, and reasonable care. As your buyer's agent, we will never share information that could harm your negotiating position without your authorization.

After both parties sign a purchase contract in New Jersey, there is a mandatory three-business-day attorney review period. During this time, either party's attorney may approve, disapprove, or propose modifications to the contract without penalty. Most South Jersey transactions use the standard NJ Realtors form, which is pre-approved by both the NJ State Bar Association and NJ Realtors. Attorney review is a legal consumer protection, it should not be waived or rushed.

New Jersey sellers are required to disclose known material defects that could affect the value, safety, or desirability of the property. Failing to disclose a known material defect can create significant legal liability. While New Jersey does permit some as-is sales, buyers retain inspection rights unless waived in writing. We guide all clients through their disclosure obligations and rights in compliance with New Jersey law and NJ Realtors Code of Ethics.

Well-priced homes in South Jersey typically go under contract within 1–4 weeks. From accepted offer to closing: conventional financing typically takes 30–45 days, FHA and VA loans typically 45–60 days, and cash transactions as few as 14–21 days. New construction timelines vary by build stage. We discuss realistic timelines with every client based on current market conditions and their specific property.

Pre-qualification is an informal estimate based on self-reported financial information with no verification. Pre-approval involves a formal review of your credit, income, assets, and employment by a lender, and results in a written commitment letter subject to final property approval. In today's competitive South Jersey market, sellers strongly prefer buyers with full pre-approval. We recommend working with an experienced local lender before beginning your home search.