As an award-winning real estate professional for Russo Real Estate of Teaneck, I have become a “go-to” agent who realizes that real estate means something different to everyone. Whether it’s a client’s first home, an investment property or downsizing, it’s about bringing passion and dedication to every aspect of the transaction.

Savvy negotiations and uncompromising integrity are just a few of my strengths. I use my extensive knowledge of the marketplace to provide my clients with information on what to expect in today’s marketplace. My most valuable assets in a transaction are understanding, trust, confidentiality and results. I’m dedicated to my clients and always available to answer any questions or concerns.

A Teaneck resident, I’ve always viewed my professional role as that of Bergen County ambassador. I believe it’s imperative to my profession that I know the landscape of a town and the specific local marketplace. At the same time, I must serve as an expert resource in helping clients problem solve and provide them with a smooth transaction experience.

When I’m not providing white-glove treatment to my clients, I’m all about giving back to the community, the town I live in and the people I serve through volunteering. Much of these efforts are focused on senior adults and the real estate community in Bergen County.

Senior Source, located in The Shops of Riverside in Hackensack, is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to enriching and supporting the lives of local seniors. Recognizing the importance of providing programs to encourage connections with seniors, I am frequently organizing and delivering seminars that help seniors understand the current real estate market and/or providing resources to make their current living situation more age friendly.

Some of my practical seminar topics have included preparing your house for sale, professional organizing, reverse mortgages, legal advice (presented by an attorney), police safety (by actual New Jersey officers), and even one by an artist who paints commemorative portraits of houses. When I’m not coordinating presentations, I sponsor hands-on events at Senior Source. Various events have included laughter, yoga, holiday music/singing and a networking event.

On a county level, I’ve supported seniors at the Bergen County Annual Senior Festival typically held at Van Saun County Park in Paramus. As a real estate specialist for seniors, I’ll often be seated at a table providing attendees with the latest information on the housing market and answering their real estate questions.

In addition to working with seniors, I’m an active member of the Greater Bergen Realtors^® and an active committee member for community service and a chair for the REALTORS^® Political Action Committee (RPAC). Community service initiates projects that work toward the betterment of our communities. Hands-on events have included anything from serving food at various food banks/shelters; providing school supplies to needy students; donating baby baskets to new mothers; helping a veteran, disabled in-need or senior citizen who needs minor repairs on their home; packing snacks for hungry students or even cleaning a neighborhood park.

RPAC is a voluntary political action committee whose membership consists of realtors interested in actively and effectively protecting the real estate industry and the dream of homeownership. I believe RPAC is not a red or blue effort — it’s purple! The group meets monthly to review the homeownership challenges that are looming in the pipelines at local, state and federal government levels and spread awareness and support. The committee invests in those political candidates that support homeowners, securing a home and realtors’ best interests.

As a member of Teaneck’s Chamber of Commerce, I support my hometown by promoting business growth, serving its members with personal and professional development opportunities and participating in various community activities for the betterment of quality of life in the tree-lined township of Teaneck.

I believe a realtor’s obligation is to wear many hats for the clients they work with and for the community in which they live and serve. The profession goes beyond selling, buying and/or renting properties. Remember, there’s no place like home!

Steven Finkelstein, SRES®, SRS, ABR®, RENE, PSA, New Jersey notary, holds his N.J. Broker-Associate license with Russo Real Estate, 873 Teaneck Rd. Russo Real Estate is a leading family-owned boutique real estate business with a commitment to the community and northern New Jersey since 1970.

If you are looking for integrity, reputation and impact, call or email Steven Finkelstein for all your real estate needs. Contact him at (201) 837-8800, ext. 44 (office); (917) 804-2618 (direct);

[email protected] or www.stevensellshomesnj.com.