Fourte International Real Estate

FIRE Meets Water: Proud to Support Verona Community Pool

FIRE Makes a Splash

2026 Verona Community Pool sponsor board showing Fourte International in the Gold section — Fourte International appears in the Gold section of the 2026 sponsor display.

At Fourte International Real Estate—FIRE for short—we believe a strong community is built both inside and outside the places we call home. Sometimes, that means making a splash.

We are proud to have supported Verona Community Pool as a Gold-level sponsor. Our sponsorship reflects something simple: we care about the community where we work, and we value the places that bring people together.

More than a place to cool off

A community pool can be the setting for some of summer’s best moments: a child growing more comfortable in the water, a swimmer finding a steady rhythm, or neighbors taking time to catch up between dips.

Aquatics offers opportunities for recreation, movement, and confidence. Just as meaningful are the connections made around the water—the familiar faces, shared afternoons, and memories that make a town feel like home.

Supporting the community we serve

In real estate, we spend a great deal of time talking about homes. But the experience of living somewhere extends beyond a front door. Local gathering places, recreation, and community traditions are part of what residents value about their neighborhoods.

Our support for Verona Community Pool is one way we put that belief into practice. We are pleased to stand alongside the other sponsors who support this local resource, and grateful to the staff and community members who help make it a welcoming place.

A little FIRE by the water

FIRE and water may sound like an unlikely pairing. For us, they come together naturally through community spirit.

To everyone who spent time swimming, connecting, and enjoying the pool: thank you for being part of what makes Verona special. Fourte International Real Estate is proud to support Verona Community Pool—and proud to be part of the community.

Learn more about Fourte International Real Estate.

From $3,500 to $200: Law Offices of Michael Fourte Secures Substantial Penalty Reduction Before Hudson County Construction Board of Appeals

Exterior of Hudson County Plaza in Jersey City — Hudson County Plaza, 257 Cornelison Avenue, Jersey City. Photo source: MAST Construction Services.

A municipal penalty can create a significant financial burden for a property owner. In a recent matter, the Law Offices of Michael Fourte represented a client before the Hudson County Construction Board of Appeals and obtained a reduction of assessed penalties from $3,500 to $200.

A $3,300 reduction—approximately 94 percent.

The Board’s signed Resolution of Findings and Conclusions, dated October 5, 2026, modified the penalties imposed in an order dated June 17, 2026. The result substantially reduced the amount our client was required to pay.

A meaningful result for our client

For a property owner, the difference between a $3,500 assessment and a $200 obligation is substantial. We were pleased to represent our client through the appeal and help bring the matter to a resolution.

The outcome also illustrates why an enforcement order deserves careful attention. Receiving an assessment does not necessarily mean that the amount initially imposed will remain unchanged after an appeal.

Our client's experience

A representative of Innovar LLC had this to say about her experience with Michael Fourte:

“He was responsive, patient, and clear in explaining the legal issues and the steps involved.”
— Representative of Innovar LLC, Read the five-star Google review (excerpt)

Results may vary depending on your particular facts and legal circumstances. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

Looking beyond the amount on the notice

An effective response begins with understanding the order, the underlying record, and the options available in the particular matter. Property owners should seek advice promptly so counsel can assess applicable deadlines and the appropriate response.

An appeal requires more than dissatisfaction with a penalty. It calls for attention to the facts, the governing requirements, and the relief that can properly be requested.

This case offers a concrete example of a favorable outcome obtained through representation before the Construction Board of Appeals. It does not mean that every assessment can—or should—be reduced by the same amount.

Speak with the Law Offices of Michael Fourte about an enforcement matter

If you have received a construction, building, or fire-safety enforcement notice, the Law Offices of Michael Fourte can review the documents and discuss your options.

Bring the complete notice or order, related correspondence, and any supporting records so the matter can be evaluated in context.

Results may vary depending on your particular facts and legal circumstances. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

Are North Jersey Home Prices Really Falling? What Buyers and Sellers Should Check This Fall

A headline about falling home prices can make a seller hesitate or a buyer expect a bargain. But it cannot tell you what a particular property should sell for. For that, start with the location, the home and the evidence around it.

Realtor.com’s September 2026 housing report describes increased national price cutting and a lower national median asking price than a year earlier. Those are useful signals, but they are listing measures across a broad market. They do not establish the value of a specific home in Bloomfield, Montclair, Verona or Guttenberg.
Source: Realtor.com September 2026 Housing Report

Start with the right comparison

A national report, a metropolitan-area report and a neighborhood review answer different questions. Even homes in the same town can differ substantially in size, condition, layout and location. A useful review starts with properties that resemble yours and explains the differences that matter.

Separate asking prices from completed sales

An asking price is a seller’s offer to the market. A completed sale records the price agreed upon in a transaction. A price reduction tells you that an asking price changed; it does not, by itself, show that every nearby home has lost value. Review recent completed sales alongside current listings, rather than relying on one number.

Look at today’s competition

For sellers, active listings help show the alternatives buyers can consider. Compare the space, condition, features and price of those alternatives. A recent sale can be informative, but the homes available today also help shape the decision facing a buyer now.

For buyers, begin with a workable budget

The purchase price is only one part of the decision. Discuss financing with your lender and consider taxes, insurance, association charges where applicable, and expected maintenance. A property that looks appealing in a headline may still be a poor fit for your monthly budget or plans.

Ask for a property-specific explanation

A market review should explain which comparable properties were selected, how they differ and what the available evidence can—and cannot—tell you. Ask how condition and current competition affect the proposed strategy. Avoid treating a broad trend as a guarantee about a particular home.

Your next step

Whether you are preparing to sell or beginning a search, a local review can help you move from a headline to a practical conversation. Contact Fourte International with your town and your goals to request a local market review.

Real Estate Is About Relationships

Every Closing Has a Story

Congresswomen Analilia Mejia with Mary and Michael Fourte

One of the most rewarding aspects of real estate is the relationships that continue long after the closing table.
Recently, Michael and Mary Fourte had the opportunity to reconnect with clients at their West Caldwell home following the successful completion of a real estate transaction. During the gathering, they also had the chance to meet Congresswoman Analilia Mejia, who represents New Jersey's 11th Congressional District, and even posed for a quick selfie together.

More Than Just Buying and Selling Homes

At Fourte International Real Estate, every transaction is unique because every client has their own story, background, and connections within the community. Over the years, the Fourtes have had the privilege of helping individuals and families from all walks of life achieve their real estate goals throughout northern New Jersey.
Whether assisting first-time homebuyers, seasoned investors, business owners, or community leaders, the focus remains the same: delivering exceptional service and building relationships that last well beyond the sale.

Fourte International CEO Featured in Department of Defense Article on Leadership and Operational Readiness

From Military Readiness to Business Leadership

Michael Fourte, founder and CEO of Fourte International Real Estate, was recently featured in an official Department of Defense article covering the U.S. Navy’s 2026 Warfighter Preparation Symposium hosted by the U.S. 3rd Fleet in San Diego.

The symposium brought together more than 200 Reserve Sailors and military leaders focused on operational readiness, strategic planning, and decision-making in high-pressure environments. During the event, Capt. Fourte discussed the importance of preparation, adaptability, and mission execution in today’s increasingly complex operational landscape.

“Warfighter Prep directly increases mission readiness by sharpening decision-making, reinforcing warfighting fundamentals and building the confidence required to operate in this high-tempo, real-world environment,”

- Fourte stated in the Department of Defense coverage.

While the article centered on military readiness, the leadership principles discussed are equally relevant in business — especially in industries where precision, compliance, client trust, and operational execution matter every day.

Leadership Principles That Shape Fourte International

At Fourte International Real Estate, military leadership and operational planning are not abstract concepts. They directly influence how the company approaches real estate brokerage, property management, legal services, and professional education.

Founded by Michael Fourte, a Navy Reserve Captain, attorney, real estate broker, and educator, with service across four continents, the company has built its reputation around preparation, accountability, and disciplined execution.

Rather than operating solely as a real estate school, Fourte International provides integrated services across:

Core Areas of Business

Real estate brokerage

Residential and commercial property management

Real estate legal services

Landlord-tenant representation

International real estate transactions

Professional real estate education and licensing courses

The company serves clients throughout New York and New Jersey with a business model that combines operational efficiency, legal expertise, and real-world industry experience.

Why Operational Readiness Matters in Real Estate

The Department of Defense article focused heavily on the concept of being “Ready Day One” — the ability to perform immediately when called upon.

That same philosophy applies directly to real estate, property management, and legal representation.

In fast-moving transactions and high-stakes property matters, success often depends on:

Making informed decisions quickly

Anticipating problems before they escalate

Maintaining clear communication

Operating with consistency and accountability

Executing under pressure without sacrificing quality

At Fourte International Real Estate Property Management, these operational principles influence everything from tenant management and compliance procedures to litigation support and client communication.

The company’s leadership team emphasizes structured planning, analytical problem-solving, and disciplined execution — principles that mirror the same operational mindset discussed throughout the Navy symposium.

Read the Original Department of Defense Article

The Department of Defense article offers additional insight into the U.S. Navy’s Warfighter Preparation Symposium and Capt. Michael Fourte’s role in advancing Reserve readiness and operational leadership within the U.S. 3rd Fleet.

Read the complete U.S. Department of Defense article here https://www.dvidshub.net/news/564923/2026-warfighter-preparation-symposium

Leadership Beyond the Uniform

The connection between military leadership and business leadership is often rooted in the same core principles: preparation, accountability, strategic thinking, and the ability to execute effectively under pressure.

For Fourte International Real Estate, those principles continue to shape how the company serves property owners, investors, students, and clients across the real estate, legal, and property management sectors

New Fincen Reporting Rule for Certain Real Estate Transactions

New Fincen Reporting Rule for Certain Real Estate Transactions (Effective March 1, 2026)

Effective March 1, 2026, the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) will begin requiring a Real Estate Report for certain residential property transfers. This applies to transactions completed in cash or without traditional mortgage financing, where at least one buyer is a legal entity—such as an LLC, corporation, partnership, trust, or any other non‑individual transferee.

This new rule is part of a nationwide effort to strengthen transparency in real estate and prevent the use of property purchases to conceal illicit funds.

Crisp Vertical Infographic for FinCEN Rule

Who Must File the Report

The responsibility for preparing and submitting the FinCEN Report rests with the settlement agent, whether a title company or law office. To complete the filing, both the buyer and seller must provide all required information before closing, including entity documentation and beneficial‑ownership details.

Why This Matters

If the required information is not provided fully and on time, the settlement agent may be unable to complete the filing and may need to withdraw from handling the closing. Because this is a federal requirement, a transaction that falls under the rule cannot proceed without full compliance.

Learn More

FinCEN’s official guidance is available at: www.fincen.gov/rre

Michael Fourte Secures Supreme Court of NJ Rule Correction After Tenant Case Sparks Discovery

Sharp-eyed Attorney Finds Typo During Legal Dispute Over Tenant’s Tactics

In a twist that underscores the value of meticulous legal practice, Michael W. C. Fourte, Esq., of the Law Offices of Michael Fourte in Verona, NJ, identified a typographical error in the New Jersey Court Rules during a legal dispute with a former tenant. The tenant, who had fallen behind on rent, attempted to complicate the case by firing his attorney after Mr. Fourte secured a judgment against him. The maneuver led to the discovery of a critical error in Rule 1:11-2(a)(4).

The Tenant’s Maneuver and the Rule Error

The tenant’s attempt to dismiss his counsel to potentially delay enforcement of the judgment brought Rule 1:11-2(a)(4) into focus. Upon review, Mr. Fourte discovered that the rule erroneously cited "Rule 1:1-4(b)," which does not exist, instead of "Rule 1:4-1(b)," which outlines requirements for withdrawing or substituting counsel. Recognizing the potential for confusion this error could create for practitioners and courts alike, Mr. Fourte took immediate action.

Petition Leads to Prompt Correction

Mr. Fourte filed a verified petition with the Supreme Court of New Jersey to correct the rule. In response, Carol Johnston, Court Executive, acknowledged the error in a formal letter dated November 11, 2024. She confirmed that the matter had been brought to the attention of the Supreme Court Clerk and the Administrative Office of the Courts, and the correction would be made promptly. Notably, the court returned Mr. Fourte’s $50 filing fee, signaling their appreciation for his efforts.

A Victory for Justice and Clarity

This correction not only rectifies an error in the court rules but also highlights Mr. Fourte’s dedication to ensuring fairness and clarity in legal proceedings. His pursuit of justice for his client in the tenant case has now extended to a broader contribution to the integrity of the legal system.

Michael Fourte’s Statement

“This was more than just a matter of resolving a typographical error,” said Mr. Fourte. “It’s about ensuring that our legal processes remain transparent and accessible for all who rely on them. I’m pleased to have played a role in maintaining the high standards of our judiciary.”

About Michael Fourte

Michael Fourte is an attorney, real estate broker, and Navy Reserve Captain, managing multiple professional ventures with precision and integrity. Through his practice and his dedication to community service, Mr. Fourte has earned a reputation as a sharp and steadfast advocate for justice.

This case serves as a reminder that even small details can have significant implications and that diligence in legal practice can lead to meaningful improvements in the system.

The Fairness in Apartment Rentals (FARE) Act: What New York City Renters and Landlords Need to Know

On November 13th, the New York City Council recently passed the Fairness in Apartment Rentals (FARE) Act, a groundbreaking piece of legislation that aims to bring more transparency and equity to the city's often confusing rental market. Under the new law, landlords are required to pay broker fees directly, unless a tenant independently chooses to hire a broker. This shift fundamentally alters how rental transactions will be conducted in the city and has significant implications for landlords, tenants, and brokers alike.

Here’s a breakdown of what the FARE Act means and how it could impact the rental process.

What Does the FARE Act Require?

The FARE Act introduces a new framework for paying broker fees in rental transactions:

1. Landlords Must Pay Brokers They Engage

If a landlord hires a broker to market their property, find tenants, or facilitate lease agreements, the landlord is responsible for paying the broker’s fees. These fees can no longer be passed on to the tenant as an additional cost of renting.

2. Tenants Who Hire Brokers Pay Their Own Fees

If a prospective tenant independently hires a broker to help find an apartment, the tenant will still be responsible for paying that broker’s fees. This ensures fairness by aligning payment with the party that engages the broker’s services.

Why Was the FARE Act Passed?

The Act was introduced in response to longstanding complaints from tenants about the inequities in New York City's rental market. In many cases, renters were forced to pay significant broker fees—sometimes equivalent to one or two months' rent—even when they had no direct relationship with the broker. This often created an undue financial burden on tenants already struggling with high rental costs.

The FARE Act seeks to address these issues by:

1. Increasing transparency in rental transactions.
2. Shifting financial responsibility to landlords, who directly benefit from brokers’ services.
3. Reducing upfront costs for tenants.

Implications for Tenants

For renters, the FARE Act is a potential game-changer. It eliminates the surprise broker fees often tacked onto rental agreements. This reduction in upfront costs makes the rental process more accessible, particularly for individuals and families with limited budgets.

Key Considerations for Tenants:
1. If a landlord’s broker is involved, tenants will no longer need to budget for broker fees.
2. However, tenants who hire their own brokers will still need to cover those costs.

Implications for Landlords

The FARE Act shifts a financial burden onto landlords, requiring them to absorb the cost of broker fees when they engage these services. While this may increase landlords' expenses, it could also create a more competitive rental market by making their listings more appealing to prospective tenants.

Key Considerations for Landlords:

1. Budgeting for Broker Fees: Landlords should factor broker costs into their financial planning.
2. Marketing Strategy: Landlords may benefit from highlighting the absence of tenant-paid broker fees in their listings to attract more renters.

Implications for Brokers

The FARE Act may bring significant changes to how brokers operate in New York City. While brokers working on behalf of landlords will continue to receive compensation, their clients’ ability to pay may influence negotiations over commission rates.

Key Considerations for Brokers:

1. Clear Contracts: Brokers should ensure their agreements with landlords explicitly outline payment terms.
2. Tenant-Focused Services: Brokers who work exclusively with tenants may need to clarify their value proposition to justify their fees.

What’s Next?

The FARE Act reflects a growing trend toward tenant-friendly policies in urban housing markets. Its success in New York City may inspire similar measures in other cities where rental affordability and transparency are major concerns.

For renters, landlords, and brokers navigating the transition, understanding the specifics of the law is crucial. As implementation unfolds, stakeholders should stay informed about any updates or additional regulations.

Final Thoughts

The Fairness in Apartment Rentals (FARE) Act represents a bold step toward greater equity in New York City’s rental market. By requiring landlords to pay broker fees directly, the law reduces the financial burden on tenants while fostering a more transparent and fair rental process.

Whether you’re a tenant looking for your next apartment, a landlord managing properties, or a broker navigating the new landscape, adapting to the changes brought by the FARE Act will be essential.

If you have questions about how the FARE Act affects your rights or responsibilities, don’t hesitate to consult with a real estate professional or legal expert. Together, we can ensure a smoother, fairer rental experience for everyone.

For personalized advice on how this law impacts you, feel free to contact Law Offices of Michael Fourte at Fourte International Real Estate. We specialize in navigating the complexities of New York and New Jersey’s real estate markets and are here to help!

Navy Reserve Captain Michael Fourte Selected to Command 3rd Fleet Maritime Operations Center Reserve Detachment

(MONTCLAIR, NJ) In September 2024, Captain Michael Fourte, a Montclair NJ resident and distinguished Navy Reservist, was selected by the Navy's highly competitive APPLY board—a group of Navy Admirals—to assume command of the 3rd Fleet Maritime Operations Center (MOC) Reserve Detachment at U.S. 3rd Fleet Headquarters in San Diego, California. Captain Fourte was chosen from a pool of 84 Navy Reserve Captains, a testament to his leadership and service. His assumption of command will be effective in December 2024.

The U.S. Third Fleet, one of the Navy’s most critical components and the largest of the numbered fleets, plays a strategic role in the defense and projection of U.S. naval power in the Pacific region. With a workforce of approximately 68,000 personnel, the Third Fleet is composed of four Carrier Strike Groups (CSGs) and two Expeditionary Strike Groups (ESGs). It operates extensively across the Pacific, from the international dateline to the Eastern Pacific, conducting joint and multinational exercises, maritime security operations, and providing forward-deployed naval forces. The Third Fleet is a cornerstone of U.S. naval presence, positioning itself to counter threats and manage tensions with emerging powers. It also supports humanitarian missions and ensures freedom of navigation in critical sea lanes.

As the incoming commanding officer of the 3rd Fleet MOC Reserve Detachment, Captain Fourte will lead a team of approximately 78 officers and enlisted sailors. This unit plays a pivotal role in augmenting the Third Fleet’s operational capabilities during rehearsals, real-world contingencies, and other naval operations. The unit's structure consists of diverse roles such as Electronic Systems Operators, Joint Operations Planners, Fires Officers, and Command and Control Watch Officers, all dedicated to ensuring the fleet's operational readiness.

Under Captain Fourte’s leadership, the unit will focus on preparing for future challenges, including enhancing readiness against emerging threats and posturing for key strategic operations in the Pacific. This includes countering regional threats posed by China’s growing maritime influence, Russia’s increasingly aggressive naval maneuvers, and North Korea’s destabilizing activities in the region. Captain Fourte’s objective is to ensure that these talented officers and sailors are fully prepared to meet these challenges and are equipped to defend the homeland and support the fleet's operations worldwide.

Captain Fourte remains committed to engaging the community through robust citizenship, believing that such involvement is the cornerstone of defending both democracy and national security. His emphasis on civic responsibility aligns with his belief that a healthy democratic society depends on an informed and active populace, and that this engagement forms the first line of defense against both internal and external threats.

Captain Michael Fourte, JD, MBA, is a respected attorney and real estate broker, licensed in both New Jersey and New York, and is the Managing Member of Fourte International, LLC. His extensive experience in both civilian and military leadership roles uniquely positions him to guide the 3rd Fleet MOC Reserve Detachment through its strategic missions.

For more information contact

About Michael Fourte: Fourte International, 212 Pompton Avenue, Verona, NJ 973-380-0580 inquiries@fourterealestate.com
About the Navy’s FY25 Apply Board: https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Portals/55/Messages/NAVADMIN/NAV2024/NAV24135.txt?ver=i52nmaTpQ_6nbzgOmFsSFg%3d%3d
About the Official APPLY Board Results: Contact usn.norfolk.comnavresforcomva.mbx.cnrfc-senior-officer-apply@us.navy.mil
About the United States 3^rd Fleet: https://www.c3f.navy.mil/

Woman Arrested for Deed Fraud on North Carolina Mansion: Why a Good Realtor is Essential

A recent case involving a woman arrested for orchestrating a deed fraud scheme on a multimillion-dollar North Carolina mansion highlights the critical importance of vigilance in real estate transactions. The suspect allegedly used falsified documents to transfer ownership of the mansion without the owner’s knowledge, a shocking but not uncommon occurrence. This case serves as a reminder of why having a knowledgeable, trustworthy real estate agent is essential when making one of the most significant financial decisions of your life.

What Happened?

In this case, the suspect forged documents to fraudulently transfer ownership of the luxury property. Such fraudulent schemes can wreak havoc on unsuspecting property owners, leading to years of legal battles and financial loss. Deed fraud undermines the integrity of real estate ownership and erodes public trust in the market.

Why you need a good realtor

Real estate transactions are complex, with numerous legal documents, regulations, and financial implications involved. Having a skilled realtor to guide you through the process is crucial in ensuring that all due diligence is performed and that the transaction proceeds smoothly and securely.

New laws in New Jersey now require buyers to pay for their own real estate agent. This shift underscores the need to hire an agent who provides value by protecting your financial interests. A trained, ethical realtor can conduct the necessary title searches, ensure all documents are valid, and identify potential red flags, such as fraudulent deeds.

In my textbook, Essential Principles of New Jersey Real Estate, we discuss the importance of due diligence and title verification, particularly in Chapter 20, Transfer of Title. A thorough title search and validation process can prevent issues like deed fraud from ever surfacing. Buyers and sellers alike should understand these crucial steps and why they are a key part of any real estate transaction.

LeSSONS FROm NJREI

At the New Jersey Real Estate Institute (NJREI), we pride ourselves on producing top-tier real estate professionals and that’s why we are consistently ranked among the top real estate schools in New Jersey. Our thousands of NJREI graduates are trained to handle complex real estate transactions and to safeguard clients against potential fraud. The education provided in our program, particularly in chapters covering title, deeds, and ethical responsibilities, ensures that our graduates are well-equipped to handle situations like this with professionalism and integrity.

Chapter 3, Agency and Ethics, in my book discusses the ethical obligations that realtors owe to their clients. Protecting clients from fraud, as demonstrated in this North Carolina case, is a prime example of why ethical standards matter in real estate. NJREI-trained agents are among the best in New Jersey because they understand that real estate is not just about closing deals; it's about protecting clients’ interests every step of the way.

The Value of an Ethical Realtor

An experienced, ethical realtor can help you avoid the pitfalls of fraudulent transactions. In New Jersey, this is more relevant than ever, as new laws now require buyers to compensate their own agents. This change highlights the need for buyers to ensure they are hiring realtors who will advocate for them and thoroughly vet every transaction. Whether you are buying your first home or investing in high-value properties, having a good realtor is crucial in safeguarding your investment.

Conclusion

The arrest for deed fraud in North Carolina serves as a cautionary tale. In real estate, due diligence and ethical representation are paramount to avoiding financial loss and legal battles. NJREI graduates are prepared to meet these challenges head-on and provide the expertise needed in today’s complex real estate market. As a real estate professional or a client, remember that hiring the right agent is not just about finding a property—it’s about protecting one of the most important investments you will make in your lifetime.

For more information or to enroll in courses that will equip you with the knowledge and skills to excel in real estate, visit NJREI