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First-Time Home Buyer Guide for Bergen County, NJ

Monday, November 3, 2025   /   by Paula Clark

First-Time Home Buyer Guide for Bergen County, NJ

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. Don’t Skip the Inspection
A licensed inspector will reveal the true condition of a home — even in move-in ready houses. It’s worth every penny.

5. Lean on Experience
I’ve helped hundreds of first-time buyers across Bergen County. From contract to closing, I’ll walk you through every step with clarity and confidence.

Call to Action:
Ready to become a homeowner in Bergen County? Let’s start your search today — text or call the Paula Clark Group at 201-280-0056.

The Paula Clark Group, Keller Williams Valley Realty | Top Westwood NJ Real Estate Team
Paula Clark
123 Tice Blvd.
Woodcliff Lake, NJ 07677
551-500-4487


Guaranteed Rate
Jess Silva | VP of Mortgage Lending
(201) 645-6452
3940 N. Ravenswood Ave
Chicago, IL 60613




The data displayed relating to real estate for sale comes in part from the IDX Program of Garden State Multiple Listing Service, L.L.C. Real estate listings held by other brokerage firms are marked as IDX Listing. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Copyright © 2025 Garden State Multiple Listing Service, L.L.C. All rights reserved.
The data relating to the real estate for sale on this web site comes in part from the Internet Data Exchange Program of the NJMLS. Real estate listings held by brokerage firms other than Paula Clark - Keller Williams Valley Realty are marked with the Internet Data Exchange logo and information about them includes the name of the listing brokers. Some properties listed with the participating brokers do not appear on this website at the request of the seller. Listings of brokers that do not participate in Internet Data Exchange do not appear on this website. All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Last date updated: November 9, 2025 Source: New Jersey Multiple Listing Service, Inc. “2025 New Jersey Multiple Listing Service, Inc. All rights reserved.”
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