Frequently Asked Questions – The Jill Biggs Group

Thinking about making the leap to Hoboken or Jersey City? Whether you're a New Yorker craving space, a first-time buyer ready to invest, or a developer with big plans, this FAQ answers the questions we get every day—powered by our 90-plus-person team of hyper-local real estate experts.

Living in Hoboken and Jersey City

Is Hoboken a good place to live?

Yes, Hoboken is one of New Jersey’s most sought-after places to live. It offers walkable streets, iconic brownstones, top-rated schools, and one of the fastest commutes to Manhattan via PATH, ferry, or bus. For more insights, explore our Hoboken blog for local tips, commuting hacks, school breakdowns, and hidden gems.

How does Hoboken compare to Jersey City?

Hoboken is smaller, more residential, and close-knit. Jersey City is larger, with a mix of neighborhoods and high-rise developments. Both offer quick access to NYC and walkable, transit-friendly living. Check out our more detailed overview of Hoboken vs Jersey City and explore listings in Hoboken and Jersey City to see which neighborhood fits your lifestyle.

Is Hoboken better than Brooklyn or Manhattan?

Hoboken offers more space, lower property taxes, and a calmer lifestyle—all with easy NYC access. Hoboken can be  a smart alternative to Manhattan or Brooklyn, especially for those seeking charm, convenience, and long-term value.

What is there to do in Hoboken?

From waterfront parks and boutique shopping to restaurants and the Hoboken Arts & Music Festival, there’s something for everyone. Check out our local lifestyle articles for a deeper look at Hoboken living.

What are the best neighborhoods in Jersey City?

Top areas include Paulus Hook, The Heights, Journal Square, and Downtown. Whether you're looking for views, culture, or convenience, Jersey City real estate has a community to match.

Buying a Home or Condo

What is the average home price in Hoboken?

As of 2025, Hoboken homes average around $850,000. Condos start in the mid-$600,000s, while brownstones and luxury homes can exceed $2 million. Browse Hoboken homes for sale for real-time listings and pricing.

Are there new condos for sale in Jersey City?

Yes, especially in Downtown Jersey City, The Heights, and Journal Square. These developments offer luxury amenities and tax abatements. Explore our latest Jersey City condos for sale.

Is it better to rent or buy in Hoboken and Jersey City?

It depends on your timeline and goals. Renting in Hoboken and Jersey City gives you flexibility and a lower upfront cost, but monthly rents—especially in luxury buildings—can rival mortgage payments. If you plan to stay for 3+ years, buying may offer better long-term value thanks to equity growth and tax benefits. We’ll help you weigh the pros and cons based on your lifestyle and finances.

Is Hoboken a good place to invest in real estate?

Definitely. Hoboken’s limited inventory and consistent buyer demand make it ideal for long-term real estate investing. Our team works with both first-time and seasoned investors.

What should I look for when buying a condo in Hoboken or Jersey City?

Consider HOA fees, transit access, amenities, and resale value. For expert help navigating condo options, connect with our team.

Do I need a real estate agent to buy in Hoboken or Jersey City?

Yes. The right local agent gives you access to off-market listings, expert pricing strategy, and negotiation support.

Do I need flood insurance in Hoboken?

If you're buying in a designated flood zone and using financing, yes. Our team helps you understand costs and requirements early.

Are property taxes going up in Jersey City?

Yes, recent trends show rising assessments and municipal budgets driving increases.

Are property taxes going up in Hoboken?

Yes. Hoboken’s 2025 budget projects a 3- to 6-percent increase. The current effective rate ranges from 1.1 to 1.6 percent.

Selling a Home or Investment Property

Is now a good time to sell a home in Hoboken or Jersey City?


Yes. Demand is strong, particularly from NYC buyers relocating for more space. Check out our client success stories and schedule a free market evaluation.

How can I increase the value of my home before selling?


According to the National Association of Realtors, you can increase the value of your home up to 10% and reduce time on market by up to 30%  through strategic updates and staging. We’ll guide you on what upgrades deliver the best ROI. 

When is the best time to sell in Hoboken or Jersey City?


Spring and early summer are popular, but strong listings move year-round. Our data-backed pricing strategy ensures you're always competitive.

How much do closing costs and agent fees usually run for sellers?


Expect commissions around 5–6% plus $5,000–$15,000 in additional closing costs. We walk through every line item so there are no surprises when it’s time to close.

What do I need to list my property with The Jill Biggs Group?


Just reach out to our team. We'll take care of valuation, prep, marketing, and negotiations.

Are investment properties selling well in Jersey City?


Yes. Investor interest remains high, particularly near transit hubs. Explore investment properties or connect with us for an evaluation of your building. 

Questions for Developers

Why should I list my new development with a local real estate team?


We understand the market and buyer mindset inside and out. Our developer services include pricing, branding, launch strategy, and full-service sales support.

Do new developments in Jersey City offer tax abatements?


Many do. These are strong selling points and vary by project. We help you position these benefits to attract the right buyer segment.

Can The Jill Biggs Group help with pre-construction marketing?


Yes. From early branding and staging to buyer outreach and team training, we offer custom marketing strategies for developers who want results.

Moving from NYC to New Jersey

Is it easy to commute from Hoboken or Jersey City to Manhattan?


Yes. PATH trains, ferries, and buses make Midtown and Downtown commutes simple and fast. See our commuting guide for insider tips.

Why are NYC residents moving to Hoboken and Jersey City?


They're trading high costs and tight quarters for more space, better pricing, and new construction—without giving up NYC access. Read more about NYC vs. New Jersey  in our blog.

What income do you need to live in Hoboken comfortably?


A household income of $120,000 or more is typical, but it depends on your budget and lifestyle. Contact us for a custom home affordability review.

What are property taxes like in Hoboken?


The average effective rate is around 1.48 percent. On a $1 million home, annual taxes typically fall between $14,000 and $16,000. We help you estimate the true costs of ownership in Hoboken.

About The Jill Biggs Group

Who owns The Jill Biggs Group?


Jill Biggs is the founder and team lead. She’s a top-producing agent with decades of success in the Hoboken and Jersey City markets. 

Where can I find reviews of The Jill Biggs Group?


Our verified five-star reviews live on Zillow, Google, and Realtor.com. Clients love our communication, results, and hands-on service.

Why should I work with The Jill Biggs Group?


We’re not just experienced—we’re 90+ experts,  hyper-local, strategic, and invested in your success. From first-time buyers to luxury sellers, we deliver results at every price point.

Is The Jill Biggs Group a top real estate team in Hoboken?


Yes. We consistently rank as the number one Coldwell Banker team in Hoboken and one of the top-producing teams in New Jersey according to Real Trends Verified.

Does The Jill Biggs Group work with first-time buyers?


Absolutely. We walk first-time buyers through every step and help them feel confident in their decision. Schedule a first-time buyer consultation.

Can you help me sell my condo or investment property in Jersey City?


Yes. Whether your unit is vacant or tenant-occupied, we know how to market and sell it quickly and profitably. Learn more about selling in Jersey City.

Do you have access to off-market listings?


Yes. We frequently secure early and off-market listings through our network. Get in touch to discuss what’s coming soon.

What areas do you serve?


The Jill Biggs Group specializes in Hoboken, Jersey City, Weehawken, Union City, and parts of Bergen and Essex Counties. Not sure if you're in our area? Contact us to find out.

How do I get started with The Jill Biggs Group?

Just reach out. Whether you're buying, selling, or exploring, our team is ready to help you make your next move a smart one.