Market Data

New Consumer Guide: 10 Tips for Unpacking

Congratulations on your new home!

Moving is an exciting milestone, but once the moving truck pulls away, you're often left with a house full of boxes. While unpacking may seem overwhelming at first, taking it one step at a time can make the process much more manageable.

The North Central Jersey Association of REALTORS® (NCJAR®) has put together these simple tips to help you settle into your new home with less stress.

1. Start with the Big Stuff

If you've hired professional movers, have them place furniture in the rooms where it belongs before they leave. Having beds, sofas and large furniture in place makes it much easier to unpack around them.

If you're moving yourself, use furniture sliders, moving blankets and proper lifting techniques to protect both yourself and your new home.

2. Keep Your Unpacking Supplies Close

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NAR Takes Housing Affordability Concerns to Capitol Hill

Housing affordability remains one of the biggest challenges facing buyers, sellers, and REALTORS® across New Jersey and the nation. On June 23rd, National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) President Kevin Brown testified before the U.S. Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee, urging lawmakers to take meaningful action to increase housing supply and improve affordability.

The Challenge

According to NAR, the United States continues to face a significant housing shortage, driving up home prices and making homeownership increasingly difficult for many Americans. Regulatory costs, permitting delays, and limited housing inventory have all contributed to the affordability crisis. NAR highlighted that regulatory requirements can add more than $131,000 to the cost of a newly built home.

What NAR is Advocating For

During his testimony, Brown called on Congress to support policies that:

• Increase housing inventory
• Reduce unnecessary regulatory barriers
• Modernize housing programs
• Expand opportunities for first-time homebuyers
• Encourage local communities to build more housing
• Support innovative housing solutions such as manufactured and modular homes

These recommendations align with bipartisan efforts currently being considered in Washington to address the nation's housing shortage and affordability concerns.

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NJ Real Estate Continuing Education Changes May Be Coming

NCJAR is closely monitoring proposed changes to New Jersey's real estate continuing education (CE) requirements that could affect REALTORS® and brokers beginning July 1, 2027. The legislation is still moving through the process, and implementation details are expected to be released by the New Jersey Real Estate Commission (NJREC). While no action is required today, we want our members to be aware of the potential changes ahead.

What You Need to Know

• Continuing education (CE) hours required for license renewal may increase.
• Self-paced online CE courses may require a passing exam score of 75%.
• A portion of CE may need to be completed through live instruction, either in person or through a live webinar.

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NCJAR Leadership and Staff Advocate for Homeownership at the 2026 REALTORS® Legislative Meetings

From June 13–18, NCJAR leadership and staff joined thousands of REALTORS® from across the nation in Washington, D.C., for the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) 2026 REALTORS® Legislative Meetings.

The annual event brings together real estate professionals from every state to engage in policy discussions, governance meetings, educational sessions, and advocacy efforts that help shape the future of the real estate industry. REALTORS® gathered to discuss critical issues impacting property owners, homebuyers, sellers, and real estate professionals, while reinforcing the importance of protecting private property rights and expanding opportunities for homeownership.

A highlight of the week was REALTORS® meeting directly with members of Congress and their staff on Capitol Hill. These meetings provided an opportunity to advocate for policies that support housing affordability, increase housing supply, strengthen local communities, and promote a healthy real estate market for consumers nationwide.

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In Today's Market, Skill Matters More Than Ever

The New Jersey real estate market has shifted. Homes are still selling, but buyers are more selective, sellers are more price-conscious, and negotiations are becoming a larger part of the transaction.

That's why professional skill development matters more than ever.

In today's market, REALTORS® who can accurately price properties, effectively represent buyers and sellers, and confidently navigate negotiations will be better positioned to serve clients and grow their business.

Professional designations like PSA (Pricing Strategy Advisor), SRS (Seller Representative Specialist), and ABR® (Accredited Buyer's Representative) help agents strengthen these critical skills and demonstrate their commitment to professionalism.

Upcoming Education Opportunity

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