This bill amends the New Jersey Consumer Fraud Act to explicitly include the sale of real estate by homeowners under its jurisdiction. It expands the definition of "merchandise" to encompass real estate, thereby subjecting homeowners to the same consumer protection standards that apply to commercial or professional real estate transactions. The bill defines various fraudulent practices, such as deception and misrepresentation, as unlawful when they occur in connection with the sale or advertisement of real estate.

The legislation establishes that any unconscionable or abusive practices related to real estate sales are violations of the Consumer Fraud Act, regardless of whether any party has been misled or harmed. Violations can result in significant penalties, including monetary fines, cease and desist orders from the Attorney General, and the potential for punitive and treble damages awarded to affected parties. This change aims to enhance consumer protection for individuals engaging in real estate transactions as homeowners.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 56:8-1