Monday, November 3, 2025 / by Paula Clark
Welcome to your “2025 housing market update” for Bergen County, NJ. Whether you’re a buyer exploring homes for sale, or a homeowner thinking of selling, understanding where the market is now—and where it’s headed—gives you the edge. As the leader of the Paula Clark Group, I’m using real data and on-the-ground insight to bring you a clear picture.
Current Market Snapshot
Inventory remains tight, meaning fewer homes are available for buyers—this gives sellers an advantage in many local towns. christiandistasio.com+2sellecksellsnj.com+2
Home values in many Bergen County communities continue to hold steady or rise modestly, despite national headwinds. christiandistasio.com+1
Buyers are still active—particularly in neighborhoods with strong schools, transit access, and newer-quality homes. Competition is higher for quality listings. christiandistasio.com+1
What Sellers Should Focus On
Becau. ...
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Monday, November 3, 2025 / by Paula Clark
Selling a home in Bergen County, NJ can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. With high expectations for pricing, showings, and negotiation, it’s easy to stumble into mistakes—some result in lower offers or a longer time on market. As the leader of the Paula Clark Group, I’ve seen them all, and I want to help you avoid the top 10 so you get the best result.
Top Seller Mistakes & Solutions
Mistake: Pricing too high out of the gate
Solution: Use a detailed comparative market analysis (CMA), account for current market conditions, and set a price that drives interest.
Mistake: Waiting too long to prepare/repair your home
Solution: Start early—fix obvious issues, stage thoughtfully, and make sure your home shows “move-in ready”.
Mistake: Skipping professional photography or virtual tour
Solution: Invest in high-quality photos, drone shots if appropriate, and virtual tours—online listings are the first impression.
Mistake. ...
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Monday, November 3, 2025 / by Paula Clark
Buying your first home in Bergen County can feel overwhelming — but it doesn’t have to be. With the right preparation and a trusted guide, you can enjoy the process and make smart financial decisions. Here’s my step-by-step plan to help you succeed.
1. Know What You Can Afford
Before you fall in love with a home, meet with a trusted lender to understand your budget. Get a full pre-approval, not just a pre-qualification — sellers take you more seriously when you’re ready to act.
2. Choose the Right Town
Each Bergen County community has its own lifestyle: Westwood offers walkable charm, Old Tappan has space and luxury, while Park Ridge balances neighborhood feel and convenience. We’ll match your goals to the right town.
3. Understand Total Costs
Beyond your down payment, remember taxes, insurance, inspections, and closing costs. Bergen County property taxes vary by town — I’ll help you estimate the full picture before you commit.
4. ...
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Monday, November 3, 2025 / by Paula Clark
If you’ve outgrown your home or are relocating, you might wonder — should I sell it or rent it out? In Bergen County’s ever-changing market, both options can make sense depending on timing and finances.
1. Evaluate Market Conditions
Home values in Bergen County remain strong, with limited inventory across most towns. If your home is in a desirable area like River Vale, Montvale, or Park Ridge, selling now could yield a premium.
2. Consider Your Finances
Selling gives you liquid cash to reinvest; renting creates monthly income but requires management and maintenance. Run the numbers with your agent and accountant to compare return vs hassle.
3. Think Long-Term
If you plan to move back to Bergen County or hold the property as a future investment, renting may be smart. But if your next purchase depends on freeing up equity, selling now likely makes more sense.
4. Know the Tax Implications
Capital gains, depreciation, and write-offs differ for landlords and sell. ...
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Monday, November 3, 2025 / by Paula Clark
Pricing is everything. Price your home too high, and it sits. Price it right, and it sells quickly with multiple offers. After 30 years selling in Bergen County, I’ve refined a data-driven, psychology-based pricing formula that gets results.
1. Start with Real Data
A Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) compares your home to similar recent sales nearby. It’s the foundation of smart pricing — not online estimates that miss Bergen County nuances.
2. Study Active Competition
Your home competes with others on the market. Understanding how yours stacks up in features, size, and location is key.
3. Factor in Timing
Spring and fall are traditionally strong seasons, but pricing strategy can overcome timing if executed correctly.
4. Use Strategic Price Points
Psychological pricing (like $999,000 vs $1 Million) attracts more searches online and increases visibility.
5. Re-evaluate Every 2-3 Weeks
If activity drops off, don’t wait months to adjust — the mark. ...
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