Selling or Buying a Home in Bloomfield, NJ
A local guide from Irma Brainard, Weichert Realtors — a Realtor licensed in New Jersey since 2017 who has sold homes in Bloomfield and lived next door in West Orange for years.
Why buyers choose Bloomfield
Bloomfield is an Essex County township with two train stations, a busy downtown around Bloomfield Center and two Olmsted-designed county parks, Brookdale and Watsessing. Housing ranges from colonials and Tudors to two-family homes and condos, including the historic Halcyon Park neighborhood.
Buyers come here for train access to Midtown, Garden State Parkway access and more house for the money than in some neighboring towns.
Bloomfield at a glance
- Location: Essex County, about 5.3 square miles, between Montclair, Glen Ridge, Belleville, Nutley, Newark and East Orange.
- Population: about 53,100 residents (2020 census).
- Getting to NYC: NJ Transit's Montclair-Boonton Line stops at Bloomfield and Watsessing Avenue stations, with trains to Hoboken and Midtown Direct service to New York Penn Station. The Newark Light Rail stops at Grove Street, and many NJ Transit bus routes run through town.
- Highways: the Garden State Parkway, with four interchanges in Bloomfield (Exits 148 to 151).
- Schools: Bloomfield Public Schools.
- Parks: Brookdale Park (121 acres shared with Montclair, with a rose garden, track and tennis courts), Watsessing Park, the Oakeside Bloomfield Cultural Center and the Bloomfield Green Historic District.
- Property taxes: the average residential tax bill in Bloomfield was about $12,000 in 2024 (NJ Division of Taxation). Taxes are paid quarterly, due February 1, May 1, August 1 and November 1.
Selling your home in Bloomfield
Bloomfield buyers often compare it with Montclair, Glen Ridge and Nutley. Accurate pricing and a clean resale inspection keep things moving. Here's how I help sellers:
- A detailed comparative market analysis based on recent Bloomfield and nearby sales
- Prep and staging guidance so your home shows at its best
- Professional photos and video, targeted online ads and social media
- Negotiation from offer through attorney review, inspections and closing
- Short sale experience if you owe more than your home is worth
What the township requires before you close
Every New Jersey town sets its own resale rules. Bloomfield requires a continuing Certificate of Occupancy, called the Certificate of Transfer of Property Title (TOP), before a home is sold, and it's one of the more thorough inspections in the area.
1. Certificate of Transfer of Property Title (TOP)
Apply to the Bloomfield Fire Department, 375 Franklin St, at least 30 days before closing (973-680-4153). The certificate is good for six months. The inspection covers:
- Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms (10-year sealed or hard-wired) and a fire extinguisher
- Electrical: no exposed wiring, covers on outlets and switches, secured breaker box
- Plumbing: venting, relief valves, sump pump discharge and an approved water meter
- Building: handrails on stairs with four or more risers, sound stairs, no holes in floors or ceilings
- Grounds: no debris, sidewalks and retaining walls in good repair, house numbers posted
| Property | Fee |
|---|---|
| Single-family | $200 |
| Two-family | $260 |
| Three-family | $320 |
| Re-inspection | $25 |
2. Taxes and water current
Taxes and township water charges should be paid through the closing date. The Water office is at 973-680-4051.
3. Rentals
Rental units are re-inspected each time tenants change.
From the Township of Bloomfield's TOP application and Fire Prevention pages. Confirm current requirements and fees with the township before you apply.
When we list your home, I put these on our calendar right away so nothing holds up your closing.
Buying a home in Bloomfield
Many buyers come to Bloomfield from Hudson County, New York City or nearby Essex County towns for the train and a wide range of home styles. I'll help you weigh the commute, property taxes and how Bloomfield compares with Montclair, Glen Ridge and West Orange.
A town favorite: Bloomfield Harvest Fest
Every October, the Bloomfield Center Alliance closes off the downtown streets for Bloomfield Harvest Fest: a full Saturday of more than 100 vendors, live music, rides, a beer and wine garden and plenty of food. It's a great way to see Bloomfield Center at its busiest.
Check Bloomfield Center for this year's date.
Useful Bloomfield links
- Township of Bloomfield (official site)
- Transfer of Property Title (TOP)
- Fire Prevention
- Construction permits
- Tax and water information
- Tax Assessor
- Open Public Records (OPRA)
- Parks and Recreation
- Bloomfield Public Library
- Bloomfield Public Schools
- NJ Transit
Bloomfield FAQs
What do I need to sell a house in Bloomfield, NJ?
You need a Certificate of Transfer of Property Title (TOP), Bloomfield's continuing Certificate of Occupancy, from the Fire Department. Apply at least 30 days before closing. The inspection covers smoke and CO alarms, a fire extinguisher, electrical, plumbing, stairs and the outside of the property.
How much is the Bloomfield resale inspection?
The township lists $200 for a single-family home, $260 for a two-family and $320 for a three-family, with a $25 re-inspection fee. Confirm current fees with the township.
What are property taxes like in Bloomfield?
The average residential tax bill was about $12,000 in 2024. Taxes are due February 1, May 1, August 1 and November 1.
Is there a train from Bloomfield to New York City?
Yes. Bloomfield and Watsessing Avenue stations are on NJ Transit's Montclair-Boonton Line, with trains to Hoboken and Midtown Direct service to New York Penn Station.
What school district serves Bloomfield?
Bloomfield Public Schools serves the township.
Thinking about a move in Bloomfield?
Call or text Irma Brainard at 201-575-5013 for a free, no-obligation conversation about your home's value or your search.
Call or Text Irma All Town GuidesIrma Brainard is a New Jersey licensed real estate salesperson with Weichert Realtors, 272 Bellevue Ave, Upper Montclair, NJ 07043. Town facts from the 2020 U.S. Census, the NJ Division of Taxation, Essex County Parks and the Township of Bloomfield. Fees, schedules and school assignments can change, so verify with the township or district.
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Upper Montclair, NJ 07043
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