Want to feel confident in your buying and selling decisions? You will be when you understand today’s market and navigate it with intention.
As we navigate daily life, juggling work, travel, family and life balance—it’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed by all the noise. Headlines about interest rates, housing shortages, national trends, economic uncertainty… it’s a lot.
And if you’re like many, you’ve asked whether right now is a good time to buy, sell, invest, or simply stay put. These questions are on more common than you would think, especially in dynamic markets like Fairfield and Westport, CT.
But the reality is-
It’s not the market that determines certainty. It’s your understanding of the market that does.
Just like daily life, the housing market is full of fast-moving changes, mixed messages, and big decisions. But the people who feel confident in any season are the ones who:
Know what the trends and current landscape actually look like
Understand how supply, demand, and pricing are behaving in their neighborhoods of interest
Have a clear strategy that aligns with their personal timing and goals with the market at hand
That’s where your advantage lies.
Why Real-Time Local Market Data Matters More Than Ever
National news can make the broad market feel unpredictable, but real estate is hyper-local. What’s happening in your town, your neighborhood, your price point, and your style of home tells the real story.
That’s why I’ve created live, real-time market reports for:
Fairfield
Westport
Milford
Popular neighborhoods with in these towns, and more being added.
These trend reports update automatically and show the metrics that matter—home prices, inventory, demand, pending sales, days on market, and more. No delays. No guesswork.
Knowledge = Confidence
When you understand the local market conditions, decisions become clearer, timing becomes simpler, and opportunities become easier to recognize.
Your Personal Strategy Starts With Understanding the Market
Whether you plan to sell in the upcoming season, explore downsizing, consider upsizing to meet lifestyle changes, or watch for buying opportunities—your strategy should be built on today’s data, not yesterday’s headlines.
This is how you stay ahead:
Track your town or neighborhood with real-time reports
Reach out to discuss your goals
Together, we build a strategy based on facts, not uncertainty
Access Your Real-Time Local Housing Market Trend Report Today – Free
I invite you to get the real-time market report for the area(s) that matter most to you.
This is always a dilemma for home buyers and would-be sellers. The biggest question on everyone’s mind at the time of this post is where are interest rates going?
According to global economist, Dr. Marci Rossell in a webinar on December 6th from Leading Real Estate Companies of the World, rates are likely to be stuck in a holding pattern in the six percent range until as late as April or May next year. She said we won’t know where rates will be going until we see what happens with tariffs and deportation, which will impact labor and prices.
Regardless of what the future holds, it is not recommended to bank on interest rate predictions, because the reality is that nobody really knows for sure what will happen. This summer, the assumption was that rates were coming down by the end of the year and through 2025, however, this was not the case.
What if you could run some scenarios with various assumptions and see which outcomes look most favorable for you? I have an excellent tool that can do just that!
Should I buy it now or wait a couple years when interest rates may be lower, and how does appreciation figure in to it?
Several economic authorities estimate that real estate values will continue to rise by an average of 3.5% in the next year. This means that homeowner equity will grow. But what if rates are lower in another year or two?
Take a look at the report from my calculator. The example shows a $900,000 home purchase today with 20% down and an interest rate of 6.375% with refinancing in two years to a potential lower interest rate of 5.375%. The calculator compares this approach to waiting two years and purchasing the same home at the lower rate.
Buying now results in a monthly payment of $4,446 and $261,124 in equity after two years, when then you can refinance. After waiting two years, the purchase price is approximately 3.5% higher due to appreciation, resulting in a purchase price of $964,103. The loan for this house may be at a lower rate, but it is now a bigger loan resulting in payments of $414 more each month. Also, this new homeowner has $68,303 less equity than if they had bought the house two years earlier.
If the rates didn’t change, buying later would result in even higher monthly payments due to the larger loan at the higher rate. In this example, purchasing today, would have achieved a lower price, smaller loan, lower monthly payments, and more equity.
I’m happy to calculate different scenarios with varied assumptions for you. Do you think home values will go up or down? What do you think rates will be in two years? What is your home buying budget? What is your dream lifestyle! Reach out to me, and let’s run some scenarios and talk about your plans!
A recent survey found that more than half (52%) of American homeowners have a renovation project planned this year.1 If you’re among them, you know that embarking on home improvements can be both exciting and daunting. According to the survey, the median renovation budget is around $15,000, so you’re probably investing a significant amount—and you’ll want to ensure your project’s success.1 One of the most critical decisions you’ll make is choosing the right contractor to bring your vision to life. However, many homeowners fall into common pitfalls during this process, leading to stress, financial strain, and subpar results.
In this guide, we’ll explore seven mistakes to avoid when hiring a contractor to ensure your project runs smoothly from start to finish.
1. SKIPPING THE RESEARCH PHASE A common mistake homeowners make is rushing into hiring a contractor without proper research. But to ensure the success of your renovation, it’s crucial to take time to meet with multiple candidates and educate yourself on best practices surrounding your project. If you bypass the interview process, you miss the opportunity to evaluate different approaches, pricing, and expertise. This can result in overpaying or hiring someone whose skills and vision do not align with your needs. Neglecting to research the processes and steps involved can also leave you vulnerable. Not only does it make it more difficult to ask the right questions, but you also risk hiring unqualified professionals or settling for subpar work. What To Do Instead:
Educate Yourself — Read up or watch YouTube videos to gain a better understanding of best practices surrounding your project.
Interview Multiple Contractors — Search for and interview at least three contractors who specialize in the type of work you need.
Ask Specific Questions — Inquire about the processes and materials each candidate will utilize.
Seek Recommendations — Get referrals from trusted sources like friends, neighbors, and real estate professionals. We’d be happy to share a list of referrals!
2. CHOOSING BASED SOLELY ON PRICE Once you’ve interviewed candidates and reviewed their proposals, it’s time to choose your favorite. But don’t make the mistake of rushing to the lowest bid. While it’s natural to want to save money, selecting a contractor based entirely on price can be a costly mistake. Extremely low bids may indicate cut corners, subpar materials, or hidden costs that will surface later. According to the National Association of the Remodeling Industry, when evaluating bids, make sure you’re comparing “apples” to “apples” and considering factors like quality, timeline, and scope.2 Are they fully licensed and insured? How long have they been in business? Do they warranty their work? What To Do Instead:
Consider Overall Value — In addition to price, look at experience, reputation, and quality of work.
Ask for Detailed Breakdowns — Understand what’s included and what’s not in each bid.
Be Wary of Low Bids – Bids that are significantly lower than others may be too good to be true.
Invest in Quality — Remember that quality work comes at a fair price, and investing in a reputable contractor can save you money in the long run by avoiding costly mistakes or repairs.
3. NEGLECTING TO CONFIRM CREDENTIALS & INSURANCE When you’ve established a good rapport with a contractor, it’s natural to want to believe the best in them. But neglecting to check references and verify licensing and insurance could come back to haunt you.3 Hiring an untrained or unlicensed contractor puts you at risk for safety and code violations, not to mention shoddy workmanship. Without proper insurance, you could be left footing the bill for costly repairs, legal issues, or even medical bills if someone gets hurt on the job.4 Skipping out on a reference check can be equally problematic. It’s your best opportunity to ensure that their promises and your expectations line up with reality.
What To Do Instead:
Verify Licensing and Insurance — Confirm that the contractor is licensed according to local requirements and verify insurance, including general liability and workers’ compensation coverage.
Check Reviews — Read online reviews and confirm that the business is in good standing with the Better Business Bureau and other relevant trade groups.
Call References — When contacting references, ask questions and request to see photos of the contractor’s completed projects.
Visit Job Sites — If possible, visit a current job site to observe the contractor’s work in progress and interaction with clients.
4. PROCEEDING WITHOUT A WRITTEN AGREEMENT A handshake deal might seem friendly and straightforward, but it’s a recipe for misunderstandings and potential legal issues. Verbal agreements are difficult to enforce and leave room for miscommunication about project scope, timelines, and costs.5 Instead, you should have a signed contract in place before any work begins.3 Paperwork can be tedious, but don’t skip the important step of carefully reading over your contract, asking questions, and pushing back on any terms that make you uncomfortable. Don’t forget to ask for payment receipts and document any change orders or issues that arise throughout the project, as well. What To Do instead:
Insist on a Written Contract — Outline all aspects, including scope, materials, timeline, payment schedule, warranty information, and a process for handling change orders.
Understand and Agree — Don’t sign anything until you fully understand and agree to all terms.
Keep Documentation — Once you’ve made your final payment, request a lien waiver or receipt marked “Paid in Full” to keep on file for legal and tax purposes.6
5. PAYING TOO MUCH UPFRONT Another common misstep is paying a large sum upfront or the full cost of the project before the work is completed. This can leave you vulnerable if the contractor fails to complete the work or disappears with your money. According to the home services platform Angi, deposits typically range between 10% and 33% of the total project cost.7 The remaining payments should be tied to progress milestones outlined in your contract. Construction attorneys caution against paying a greater share of the project cost than the percentage of the work that’s been completed.3 If you end up dissatisfied with the outcome, you’ll have much less leverage if you’ve already paid. What To Do Instead:
Be Cautious — Avoid contractors who demand large upfront payments or cash-only deals.
Establish a Payment Schedule — Tie payments to project milestones and stick to them.
Pay Only Upon Completion — Never pay in full until the project is completed to your satisfaction and all required inspections have been passed.
6. FAILING TO GET NECESSARY PERMITS Skipping the permit process might seem like a way to save time and money, but it can lead to serious consequences. Without the proper permits, you risk running afoul of local building codes and regulations, which could result in fines, forced removal of work, or even legal action.8 Additionally, unpermitted work might compromise the safety and structural integrity of your home, potentially leading to hazardous conditions or diminished resale potential. Homeowners may also find themselves without recourse if issues arise later, as insurance companies often exclude coverage for unpermitted renovations.8 If your community has a homeowners association (HOA), don’t forget to check their requirements, as well. You may need prior approval to make modifications to your home or yard. HOAs have the power to enforce these restrictions with fines, and they can even put a lien on your home—so don’t skip this important step.9 What To Do Instead:
Discuss Permits — Talk about permits and HOA requirements with your contractor before work begins.
Include Permits in the Contract — Ensure that obtaining necessary permits and approvals is part of your contract.
Verify Inspections — Make sure all required inspections are completed during the project.
Keep Records — Keep copies of all permits, HOA approvals, and inspection reports for your records.
7. IGNORING RED FLAGS AFTER THE PROJECT HAS STARTED Sometimes a contractor can check all the right boxes—until the work begins. Unfortunately, red flags that are spotted mid-project can be especially challenging to address. If you’ve already paid a substantial amount or had a portion of your home demolished, you may feel trapped in a bad situation. However, if there are major problems that the contractor is unwilling to address, ignoring them can make things exponentially worse. Don’t be afraid to seek legal or professional advice if issues persist. Taking immediate, informed, and decisive action is crucial to safeguarding your investment and ensuring the project’s ultimate success.10 What To Do Instead:
Review Your Contract — Make sure you thoroughly understand your rights and the agreed-upon terms.
Document Issues — Keep detailed records, including dates, descriptions of problems, photographs of subpar work or materials, and any communications with the contractor.
Communicate Professionally — Arrange a meeting to discuss your concerns, ensuring you remain calm and professional while clearly expressing your expectations.
Request a Resolution Plan — Ask for a plan to address the issues, set a timeline for resolution, and put everything in writing to ensure you’re both on the same page.
Seek Advice — If the contractor is uncooperative or dismissive, consider seeking advice from a legal professional. You could also contact your local licensing board or consumer protection agency for guidance.
BOTTOMLINE Hiring the right contractor is crucial to the success of your home improvement project. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can significantly increase your chances of a smooth and successful renovation experience. Remember, taking the time to thoroughly vet contractors, communicate clearly, and plan carefully will pay off in the long run. Your home is likely your most significant investment, and it deserves the care and attention that comes with making informed, thoughtful decisions about who works on it. If you’d like help finding a contractor or want to know how planned improvements could impact your home’s resale potential, reach out for a free consultation!The above references an opinion and is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be financial, legal, or tax advice. Consult the appropriate professionals for advice regarding your individual needs. Sources:
If a substantial renovation feels overwhelming and you want to consider a new home that better suits your needs and lifestyle, reach out to me to discuss.
In the dynamic world of real estate, interest rates hold a significant sway over homebuyers’ decisions. Likewise, rates have an impact on homeowners’ ability to sell. As memories of the desirable 2.85% interest rate linger, the current market fluctuations have left potential homeowners pondering their next move. Of course, the unspoken value proposition in all of this is the impact that ‘home’ has on your lifestyle and quality of life. Each person needs to weigh how much they value their lifestyle relative to what they are willing to invest in a new home. In this discussion, we’ll delve into some strategic approaches that can help you navigate this uncertainty while awaiting the (unlikely) return of the coveted 2.85% interest rate.
1. Exploring Adjustable Rate Mortgages (ARMs) for Lower Rates: Consider opting for an Adjustable Rate Mortgage (ARM) in a higher interest rate climate. ARMs often begin with a lower rate than fixed-rate mortgages, potentially offering more affordable initial payments. As interest rates are expected to fluctuate, ARMs can be a prudent choice if you anticipate rates to decrease in the future. It’s crucial to understand the terms and associated risks of ARMs before making a decision.
2. Seizing Opportunity: Buying Now and Refinancing for Lower Rates: Rather than endlessly waiting for the ideal 2.85% rate, consider purchasing a home now and exploring refinancing opportunities later. By securing a home at current rates, you can build equity and enjoy the benefits of homeownership. Keep a vigilant eye on market trends to identify the optimal time for refinancing to secure a more favorable rate.
3. Negotiating Seller Concessions for Reduced Costs: Leverage negotiation skills when making an offer on a home by requesting a seller concession. This concession can be used to buy down the interest rate or cover closing costs. Keep in mind, that sellers typically have more leverage than buyers in the current market, but if a home has been lingering on the market longer than the average market time, the homeowner might be willing to work with you for a win-win agreement. This approach provides a means to mitigate the impact of higher interest rates, enhancing short-term affordability and financial flexibility.
4. Diversifying Investment Strategies: Exploring Real Estate Investment: For those hesitant about primary homeownership due to interest rates, diversifying into real estate investment can be an attractive alternative. Options like rental properties and real estate investment trusts (REITs) allow you to benefit from market dynamics while potentially bolstering your investment portfolio. Thorough research is essential to navigate each avenue’s nuances and risks.
5. Seeking Expert Guidance: Partnering with Financial Professionals: To effectively navigate the intricate interplay of interest rates and real estate, consult financial advisors, mortgage experts, and real estate professionals. Their insights and tailored advice can help you make informed decisions aligned with your financial goals and market projections.
Conclusion: In the pursuit of the elusive 2.85% interest rate, remember that the real estate market’s complexity extends beyond rates alone. By exploring ARM options, capitalizing on current opportunities and planning for future refinancing, negotiating for seller concessions, and diversifying investment strategies, you can confidently navigate today’s real estate landscape. Stay informed, seek professional counsel, and make choices tailored to your financial situation and aspirations.
I took a continuing ed course taught by Birgit Anich of BA Staging and Interiors last week. I have taken staging classes before, but I didn’t realize that such a strong positive psychological impact can be achieved when applying staging strategy and design techniques.
The goal of staging is to merchandise a property to position it most competitively for sale by eliciting strong positive emotion from those who enter the space.
When you walk into a home, you may feel nothing. You might even feel an aversion. Or your heart may skip a beat, and you experience a “chemistry”, a feeling of excitement, or joy.
We all make decisions based on emotion. We then back up our emotions with fact. Therefore, as a homeowner, when you prepare your house for sale, ensuring your buyers experience a “wow” as soon as they arrive and walk in should be part of your investment in achieving your top dollar sale.
When you put your house on the market, you want buyers to feel the love when they walk in.
Here are four guiding concepts:
Everything has a place and a purpose! If it doesn’t, take it out.
Curb appeal is key. This is the first impression. Every home needs a wow-factor, so incorporate something to evoke a positive emotion even before entering the home.
Everything the buyer sees tells a story, so make it the story you want to tell. For example, if closets are jam-packed, it tells the buyer there might not be enough storage. Closets should ideally be 70% full and arranged by color.
Create lifestyle moments. Create the idea of an “aspirational lifestyle”. An example of this is the big soaking tub. Most people never use them, but they love the idea of it when they see it! An alternative can be to have a big coffee table book open to a page showing a luxurious vacation spot or collectible cars.
What are some of the strategies?
Feature the features. Guide the eye toward what you want to showcase. Any custom elements should be featured such as a new kitchen. All assets should be featured, such as great views, fireplaces, and vaulted ceilings.
Make sure there’s no “wasted space”. Clearly define the use of all space and give it a purpose. Be sure to separate adult space from kids’ space.
Minimalize. Use a “less is more” approach.
Create “memory points”. For example, after seeing four homes, someone might say, “Yes, I remember that house. It’s the one with the pink cushions!”
Out with the old, in with the new. Refresh items and elements that give a dated or tired impression. For example, swapping out dated light fixtures can make a huge difference in the impression it makes!
Appeal to the senses. Clean and fresh is key. There is actually a special type of light bulb that can eliminate stubborn odors, such as from pets. Don’t over-do-it with strong scents from candles or oils. Lighting is important too. Be sure to avoid using bulbs with cool lighting.
Texture, color, placement, materials, metals, mirrors, vignettes, and ‘signs of life’ are just a few elements Birgit employs for her strategy. Here are some tricks of the trade!
Proper lighting wattage and color is important. Use warm lighting with 2700-3000 Kelvin in the living room. A bit cooler lighting in the kitchen is okay, 3000+ Kelvin.
Furniture placement is important. The heaviest piece of furniture should be on the wall opposite the entrance to the room. Make sure there is at least three feet clearance to walk around furniture, especially tables, but no more than four feet.
Use big area rugs to anchor furniture in a room and give it a connected, cohesive, luxurious look. For luxury spaces, have a big rug with all furnishings set completely on it. For more informal spaces, use a big rug with furnishings off-set or extending off the edges.
Coordinate colors.
Balance rooms with symmetry.
Group accessories in sets of three and five (odd numbers).
Repeat design themes throughout the home.
Use mirrors as a design element to reflect light, reflect pretty views opposite them, and let the buyers see themselves in the space!
Incorporate “signs of life“, like plants to add a warmth and an organic component to the space.
Add pops of color to make space memorable and help guide the focus to where you want it.
Set accessories on angles so they are not too predictable looking.
Create “special moments“. Use vignettes to suggest a moment in time and create a lifestyle feel. For example, you can display a decorative board game on a coffee table and have a couple of the pieces out in play as though people were just playing.
Mix metals. For example use a black metal with a gold metal to add interest and variation.
Add “plush” (textures). For example, add fur seat cushions or open a lively book to a specific page and put it on a desk or coffee table.
Use lighting to center the space.
In a gourmet kitchen, use lifestyle accessories.
In bedrooms, neutralize bedding with whites for a fresh clean impression.
Mix patterns and solids.
Use timeless glass.
I bet you can’t wait to try a few of these ideas in your own home! Here are some pictures to get the juices flowing. But if you are thinking about making a move and feel overwhelmed by everything you have do, don’t worry, there is ample help to guide the process and get you there. In fact, when it comes to repairs and staging, I even have a program that will take care of everything for you at no out of pocket cost until you close!
When your clients say they won’t bid on the house until hell freezes over or HGTV gives them a free makeover. 🧐
Although buyers might not have the same level of negotiating power of yesteryear, there is still some opportunity to negotiate on a case by case basis. It depends on
🟠how much demand there is for the property,
🟠the motivation level of the seller, and
🟠how much concession the buyer is asking for.
If you are a buyer who will only consider a jackpot deal, you could luck out, or you could be waiting a very long time. 🤷♀️
Just kidding (about the photo, not the commentary)!
My clients just came across the picture and sent it to me. It looks so ‘retro’ I had to have some fun with it. I wasn’t waiting for my clients to decide on an offer. They had actually already bought the house and were about to cash in on a free makeover from HGTV when we filmed the show, HGTV House Hunters Renovations. We were on a break during filming in the kitchen. Below is their gorgeous renovated kitchen thanks to HGTV. Sometimes things just work out perfectly! 🏡 🌳 🌞
Here are a couple more snapshots from behind the scenes at some other properties we browsed for the show.
If you have questions about the market, moving process, or would like to talk about your plans. Drop me a note below!
Special thanks to our guest writer, Sharon Wagner for this article! As a senior herself, Sharon Wagner understands that an older body and mind impacts the daily lives of many seniors. She created SeniorFriendly.info to offer advice geared specifically toward seniors to help them make healthier choices and enjoy their golden years.
After experiencing the painful loss of a parent, partner, sibling, friend, or another loved one, you may feel as if you’ll never fully recover from the grief — especially if nearly everything in your home or everyday life reminds you of the loved one you’ve lost. And while it’s best to delay any major life decisions within six to twelve months of losing a loved one, according to Psychology Tools, moving into a new home and/or relocating to a new city or state could be the change you need in order to cope with the grief you’re experiencing.
Moving provides a fresh start, and in some cases, it allows you to be closer to friends and family during an emotionally challenging time in your life. But whatever your reasons may be for moving after the loss of a loved one, this guide from real estate pro Linda Raymond will help you to make the change of scenery you need in order to move on with your life — as painful as it may be.
Get Ready to Move
If you lived with the loved one you’ve lost, selling the home you shared can be an incredibly painful experience. You’ll need to sort through your loved one’s belongings, decide which items to keep or donate, and handle the logistics of buying and selling a home. And when preparing to list your home, you’ll need to make any necessary repairs or improvements, such as fixing cracked windows, leaking pipes, or anything that could turn away potential homebuyers. You’ll also need to start saving for a down payment on a new home unless you plan on renting.
As time-consuming as moving can be, the process can be a much-needed distraction when you’re grieving the loss of a loved one. Just refrain from getting rid of your loved one’s belongings too soon, or you may regret it later. You can always move everything into your new home and sort through them at a later time. Consider storing them in a garage, basement, or rented storage space, and sort through them when you’re ready.
To reduce stress on moving day, you may also wish to hire professional movers. As Consumer Affairs notes, movers can help with packing, loading, and unloading your belongings, allowing you to focus more on creating a fresh start.
Connect With Friends, Your Community, and an Online Therapist
Whether you’re moving into a new area where you don’t know anyone, or you’re looking to connect with others who’ve experienced grief, resources are available to help you navigate your grief. Some ways to meet people in a new area include:
● Volunteering in the community.
● Attending Meetup events in your new city.
● Finding a roommate with similar interests as you.
● Connecting with friends on social media.
For most, therapy is key to working through the various phases of grief. Busy lifestyles, however, may not make it possible to attend regular therapy sessions. Instead of forgoing time with a counselor until you can carve out a few hours, there’s now telehealth options, which allow you to meet with a mental health professional from your computer or smartphone. And when it comes to costs associated with therapy, online therapy is more affordable. What’s more, you can find a therapist who fits your needs and schedule a same-day appointment.
Make Your New House Feel Like Home
As you settle into your new residence, incorporating old memories, decor, and keepsakes can help to make your new house feel like home. Try turning some of your loved one’s clothing into a memory quilt, creating a photo collage to display in your new house, or repurposing furniture from your former home. Doing so will allow you to start anew while keeping your loved one with you as you enter the next chapter of your life.
Moving for a change of scenery isn’t the right choice for everyone who’s coping with grief, but it could be a good option for you if remaining in your home feels unbearable after the passing of a loved one. Selling your home and starting over in a new city, state, or country isn’t a step you should take immediately following the death of a loved one, but it’s something to consider several months or years down the road. Everyone copes with grief in their own way – including finding emotional support via online therapy – and for you, that may mean selling your home and starting anew in an unfamiliar place.
Linda Raymond’s real estate blog is loaded with insights and advice on the home-buying and selling process. Reach out to Linda today for more info! 203-912-4440.
Looking for the best mortgage rates, options, and service?
Big News!! William Raveis Mortgage is once again named among Top 100 Mortgage Companies in America by Mortgage Executive Magazine!
What does this mean for you? There’s a reason why we are a top mortgage company nationwide, and it’s because we deliver the best rates, options, efficiency and service for you. If you want to make a move and are concerned about rates, the market, and how to navigate the process, reach out to me at the contact info below. I am here to help!
Thank you to all of our Bankers, staff, clients, and agent community, we are proud to be your home finance advocates!
Tune into HGTV’s House Hunters Renovation“An Old House Gets a New Master Plan” on September 19th at 9:00 AM to follow my clients, Michael and Ella on their journey of selling their home in Black Rock and moving to Fairfield to get better schools for their blended family of three kids. Of course, yours truly helps them with this part. I had originally helped them buy their house in Black Rock in 2010 and then got it sold for them the first day on the market which made them very strong buyers for this new home purchase.
Then the HGTV design team takes over to make their fixer-upper that’s missing one bedroom into a designer dream home that works for the whole family!
Below is a behind the scenes peak with Michael, Ella and the onsite director and camera crew at a lunch break during filming.
With Michael, Ella the director and camera crew during a lunch break from filming.
The show went well, and Michael and Ella are enjoying their new digs as well as the excellent schools in Fairfield CT!
Pricing your house is not an exact science, but there are plenty of things you can do to help snag your buyer sooner rather than later. Here are 10 of my strategies:
1. Get the Market Scoop – Have your agent show you recent sales of similar homes nearby. Note the sale prices, how long they took to sell and how close to asking they sold for. Next discuss your competition and get a feel for what choices the buyers have and how your house stacks up. 2. Note Improvements – Show your agent all the great things you’ve done to your house since you bought it that may increase its value. Review maintenance and repair work as well. This may help set you apart from your competition. 3. ID Pros & Cons – Talk to your agent about what the key selling points and challenges are for your property and how this information can impact your price. 4. Embrace Staging – Ask your agent how the marketing tool of staging to attract buyers can sell your house faster and for the most money. 5. Don’t Do This – Avoid the mistake of pricing your home based on your personal finances. The number you want or need may have nothing to do with the market value. Only the market and the buyers determine your selling price. Remember that if your house is worth more to you than it is to all the buyers, you will remain the lucky owner! 6. Don’t Do This Either! – Avoid accepting inflated price quotes from friends, poker buddies, colleagues, bridge ladies, the mail man and family members instead of your agent’s- unless of course they’re ready, willing and able to purchase your property on the spot! 7. Try Buyer’sEyes – Pretend you are a buyer choosing between your house and several others. Which one would you choose and why? If your house offers more value than the others, maybe you can ask a higher price than your competition. 8. Don’t Go it Alone – Unless you’re sure your house will fly off the shelf and you know how to navigate the complexities and potential pitfalls of a real estate transaction, be sure you hire a good Realtor. Remember that if you try to price and sell on your own,
you will be missing much of the information needed to guide realistic pricing,
buyers will see that you have not invested in a broker and deduct that money from their offer price,
without a Realtor’s marketing plan, your house will not get the exposure needed to draw a strong buyer pool regardless of your price, and
if an offer comes in, you will be challenged to evaluate its terms and the quality of the buyer.
9. Go Live! – Now your agent can launch the marketing plan with a price you feel makes the most logical sense after weighing all the considerations above. 10. Track Course & Close! – Your agent will track showing activity and feedback as well as market changes. If you have ample showings the first week, your price is likely right on the money! If you don’t have offers after a couple of months (depending on the pace of the market) but you are still getting showings, a slight price adjustment will likely do the trick. I am happy to discuss your plans and how I can help. Happy Selling!
Fairfield and Westport CT Real Estate Guide 