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Buying a home in New Jersey

Let’s find your next home.

Buying a home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make. With local expertise and years of experience, we guide you every step of the way, from the first search to closing day.

In short

To buy a home in New Jersey: set your budget, get preapproved, choose a buyer’s agent, tour homes, make an offer, complete the three-day attorney review, inspect, secure your mortgage, then close.

See the full process

№ 01Why buy with us

When you buy with us, you’re getting a partner.

A partner, not just an agent

We take the time to understand you, your needs and your budget, so the homes we show you actually fit.

The full picture on every home

Location, amenities and potential drawbacks. You get the information you need to make an informed decision.

Negotiation on your side

We negotiate with sellers on your behalf to get you the best possible terms, from the first offer through closing.

No pressure, ever

We won't push you toward a home outside your budget or one that doesn't meet your needs. Finding the right home is personal.

№ 02The homebuying process

Eight steps from first conversation to keys in hand.

Every purchase is different, but the path is predictable, and we stay with you through every stage.

1
Consultation & budget
We start with your goals, timeline, must-haves and a realistic monthly budget, including New Jersey property taxes, which vary widely by town.
2
Mortgage preapproval
A lender reviews your income, assets and credit and issues a preapproval letter, so you shop with confidence and sellers take your offer seriously.
3
Home search & showings
We set up a tailored search, schedule private showings and help you evaluate layout, condition, major systems, commute and neighborhood.
4
Making an offer
We prepare your offer with recent comparable sales and structure price, deposit, contingencies and timing to be competitive while protecting you.
5
Attorney review
Once signed, New Jersey contracts prepared by real estate licensees enter a three-business-day attorney review period, during which either side's attorney can propose changes or cancel.
6
Inspections
Your licensed home inspector evaluates the property. Radon testing, wood-destroying insect and oil-tank inspections are common in New Jersey. Your attorney negotiates any repairs or credits.
7
Appraisal, commitment & title
Your lender appraises the home and issues a mortgage commitment, while the title company confirms clear title and you arrange homeowners insurance.
8
Final walk-through & closing
We walk through the home with you before closing to confirm its condition. Then you sign, fund and get your keys.

Suburban home with lights on at twilight

When you buy with us

We’ll be with you every step of the way, from the first search to closing day.

№ 03First-time homebuyers

Your first home, without the guesswork.

Many of our clients are first-time buyers, and some have come back years later to sell or buy again. We take the time to explain each step, answer every question and make sure you feel at ease.

Know your true monthly cost
Principal, interest, property taxes, insurance and any HOA fees, not just the list price.
Ask about assistance programs
The NJ Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency offers first-time homebuyer and down payment assistance programs through participating lenders.
Budget for closing costs
Lender, title, attorney and recording fees come on top of your down payment.
Protect your credit
Avoid new credit cards or large purchases until after closing.

Read our first-time buyer guide

№ 04Financing & preapproval

Get preapproved before you fall in love.

A preapproval tells you what you can borrow and shows sellers you’re a serious, qualified buyer. In a competitive situation, an offer without one is rarely taken seriously.

Compare Loan Estimates from more than one lender, and ask about conventional, FHA and VA options, as well as New Jersey first-time buyer programs. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau offers excellent free tools for comparing offers.

We’re happy to introduce you to local lenders our clients have trusted.

№ 05New Jersey specifics

What’s different about buying in New Jersey.

Consumer Information Statement

New Jersey agents must give you this state form explaining the different ways a brokerage can represent you. Read it and ask questions.

Three-day attorney review

Hire a New Jersey real estate attorney before you make an offer, so you're ready when the attorney review clock starts.

Property taxes

New Jersey property taxes vary by municipality and assessment. We pull the actual tax history for any home you're serious about.

Older-home inspections

Radon testing, sewer-line scopes and underground oil-tank sweeps are common add-ons for New Jersey's older housing stock.

Learn more: How to buy a home in New Jersey · Communities we serve · Meet our agents

№ 06FAQ

Buyer questions, answered.

What are the steps to buying a home in New Jersey?

Buying a home in New Jersey typically involves setting a budget, getting preapproved for a mortgage, choosing a buyer's agent, touring homes, making an offer, completing the three-business-day attorney review, inspections, appraisal and mortgage commitment, a final walk-through and closing.

Do I need a real estate attorney to buy a house in New Jersey?

It isn't legally required, but most New Jersey buyers hire a real estate attorney. Your attorney handles attorney review, negotiates inspection items, reviews title and represents you at closing. We can recommend attorneys our clients have worked with.

What is attorney review in New Jersey?

When a residential sales contract is prepared by a real estate licensee in New Jersey, it includes a three-business-day attorney review period (excluding weekends and legal holidays). During this time either party's attorney may disapprove the contract or propose changes.

How much do I need for a down payment?

It depends on the loan program and your finances. Some conventional, FHA and VA programs allow low or no down payment for qualified buyers, and New Jersey offers first-time homebuyer assistance programs through the NJ Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency. A lender can tell you what you qualify for.

What does a buyer's agent cost in New Jersey?

Buyer agent compensation is negotiable and is set out in a written buyer agreement that you'll typically sign before touring homes. It may be paid by you, by the seller as a concession, or a combination. We explain your options clearly before you sign anything.

Can I work with an agent who speaks Spanish?

Yes. Several PG Realty Group agents are fluent in English and Spanish and guide clients through every step in the language they're most comfortable with.

№ 07Start your homebuying journey