Fairfield and Westport CT Real Estate Guide

Local insights on buying, selling, and living in Fairfield County

Category Archives: Market Updates

Market reports, Beach Bulletin


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Fairfield and Westport Real Estate Market: JANUARY 2024💥


Happy New Year! 🎉

As we dive into 2024, let’s take a quick look at what happened in December in our local Fairfield and Westport markets. If you’re curious which homes sold, take a look at the What Sold Reports, and if you love the charts 📊, scroll down. ⬇️

Here’s what happened in December 2023.

Prices were up.

  • Sale prices averaged 102% of asking in Fairfield and 103% in Westport. This was an increase from November when both ratios were 100%. Most homes, (57% in Fairfield and 70% in Westport), sold above the asking price, and more than 90% of the sales sold for over 95% of the asking price.
  • The median sale price in Fairfield was $1,010,000, up 41.3% compared to December 2023. The median sale price per square foot was up 12.2% to $421. In Westport, the median sale price was $1,750,000, up 2.9%, and the median sale price per square foot was $605, which was up 38.3% from last December.

Pace was down.

  • Days on market increased from 48 in November to an average of 63 days in Fairfield and 74 days in Westport. This is approximately 30% more time on the market than last December in both towns.
  • Unit sales were down 17.3% in Fairfield and 37% in Westport compared to December 2022. Inventory was also down with just 88 single-family homes for sale in Fairfield and 58 in Westport. There were seven new listings in Fairfield and six in Westport at the time of this post.
  • The months of supply was up from December 2022 but still in the two-month range in both towns. This is the result of a slower rate of sales, and due to an influx of homes coming on the market. 

What does it mean?

The market in December demonstrated more of what we saw all year. Low inventory with buyer demand maintained the upward pressure on prices and limited the pace of sales.

The good news was that rates began to tick downward in November, and there were some signs that the market might start moving in a more balanced direction. At the time of this post, you could get a 30-year Fixed Jumbo at 6.625% and 30-year FHA for 6.125% from William Raveis Mortgage. This pointed to us being past the peak of interest rates.

Udate 1/11/24: The National Association of Realtors Chief Economist Lawrence Yun forecasts an improved housing market in 2024. He said, “The demand for housing will recover from falling mortgage rates and rising income. In addition, housing inventory is expected to rise by around 30% as more sellers begin to list after delaying selling over the past two years.”

As we head into the New Year with rates ticking downward, more sellers may be ready and willing to enter the market. With the improved affordability from these lower rates and new listings to choose from buyers should be able to appreciate more options. So, if you have been waiting to make your move, now is a good time to get ready to do so.

Bottom line.

People buy and sell in every season and in every market. So you can embrace your new lifestyle goals if now is the right time for you. The expert guidance of your agent will help you navigate this market to secure your new home. Reach out to me anytime with your questions about the market and to discuss your plans.

When you are selling, your agent will guide you on the strategy to maximize the demand for your listing in the current market. Here’s an overview of what you can expect.

If you plan to buy in this market, there is still solid competition and a relatively short window of time before sellers are accepting offers. So it is important that you are ready to make an informed decision if you see a home that meets your top criteria. This means you have everything you need to submit a competitive offer. This also means that you have your mortgage pre-approval or proof of funds in your agent’s hands, because an offer is not complete without this critical piece! Here’s a guide for what you can expect.

What are your thoughts about the market and interest rates? Do you think this year will be a better time to move than last year? Share your thoughts in the comments or send me a note below.

William Raveis Local Housing Data

FAIRFIELD SINGLE-FAMILY – DECEMBER 2023


WESTPORT SINGLE-FAMILY – DECEMBER 2023

If you’re not ready to think about your move yet, please refer your friends to me using the form below.
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Fairfield and Westport Real Estate Market: December 2023

Go to JANAUARY 2024 Report

Is there a new trend emerging?

Happy Holiday Season! The November numbers are in. As 2023 comes to a close, let’s take a look at what happened in our local Fairfield and Westport markets in November. For a list of all the single-family sales, explore the What Sold Reports. If you love the visuals, charts await you below! ⬇️

Here’s what happened in November:

Prices.

Sale prices averaged 100% of asking in both Fairfield and Westport. This is down from 102-103% in October suggesting a slight shift toward a more balanced playing field between buyers and sellers. The seller market was still strong though, with more than half the homes selling above asking price and the majority homes selling for over 95% of the asking price.

The median sale price was 13% lower year over year in Fairfield, likely due to a mix of sales that included more smaller homes. In Westport, the median sale price was up 9.7%. The median sale price per square foot was up in both towns compared to November 2022.

Pace.

The time on-market averaged 48 days in Fairfield and Westport, which was shortest November market time in the past three years.

Unit sales were down 11.1% in Fairfield and up 8.7% in Westport. There were eight new listings in each town at the time of this post. Inventory was up very slightly in Fairfield (3.1%) but down 12.5% in Westport.

There were approximately three months of supply in both towns, (2.78 months in Fairfield and 3.32 months in Westport). This metric shows that we are still in a sellers’ market given that a balanced market has closer to a six-month supply. However, the market is not as extreme in the seller’s favor as it was when the supply was in the two-month range in March (Westport) and April (Fairfield).

What does it mean?

There are some signs that the real estate market may be moving toward a more balanced state given that market activity is resulting in a sale to list ratio of 100% (versus way above) and that the supply is hovering in the three-month range.

Rates, ratio, and supply may suggest a shift toward a more balanced market. But this does not appear to be a clear trend yet, and market time is still quite short, so we will have to wait and see.

If you plan to buy in this market, there is still a good amount of competition and a short window of time before sellers are accepting offers. So it is important that you are ready to make an informed decision and have everything you need to submit a competitive offer. This means that you have your mortgage pre-approval or proof of funds in your agent’s hands, because an offer is not complete without this critical piece!

When you are selling, the market’s response to your listing depends on how compelling your asking price is for the property you are presenting and the demand for your property at the time you list your home for sale. Your agent will guide you on the strategy to maximize the demand for your listing in the current market.

Bottom line

Eighty-nine homes sold in December 2022, meaning that 178 parties made a successful move during this holiday month last year. So we can expect a good amount of serious people making successful moves this December as well. Do you plan to be one of them?

People buy and sell in every season and in every market. So you can embrace your new lifestyle goals if now is the right time for you. The expert guidance of your agent will help you navigate this market to secure your new home. Reach out to me anytime with your questions about the market and to discuss your plans.

William Raveis Local Housing Data

FAIRFIELD SINGLE-FAMILY – NOVEMBER 2023


WESTPORT SINGLE-FAMILY – NOVEMBER 2023

If you’re not ready to think about your move yet, please refer your friends to me using the form below.
Referrals are a win-win!

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Navigating Life’s Transitions: My Gratitude 🙏 for Your Trust and Patronage

Dear Clients and Community,

As a Realtor, I’ve been entrusted with the pivotal task of handling the sale and purchase of homes, recognizing that these spaces are not just assets but repositories of pride, emotions, and life’s stories. Your trust in me for this crucial responsibility is something I deeply cherish and am profoundly grateful for.


One of the most fulfilling aspects of my role is facilitating not just a change of residence but guiding people from one chapter of their lives to the next. This journey, often intertwined with significant life transitions, is laden with emotions. 


My commitment goes beyond being a real estate professional; it’s about being a compassionate guide, ensuring a seamless transition through each stage of the process. This journey involves a meticulous focus on several key elements:

  • Transparent Expectations: I ensure my clients are well-informed, eliminating surprises throughout the process.
  • Open Communication: A regular flow of communication is maintained to keep you informed and to encourage your thoughts and concerns to be expressed freely.
  • Collaboration: I give you the information you need to make informed decisions that best meet your priorities. I then work with you to implement the steps toward your desired results.
  • Emotional Support: I act as a shield against stressors, offering reassurance during the most challenging times.
  • Efficient Coordination: Managing all the players involved in the transaction—attorneys, agents, inspectors, appraisers, lenders, and contractors—is crucial to maintaining a smooth journey.

The validation of my approach is mirrored in the abundance of positive online reviews, surpassing 85, and the honor of receiving the Five Star Professional Award for nine consecutive years.


Your trust and appreciation fuel my dedication to continuous service and building enduring relationships. I am genuinely grateful for the opportunity to be part of your life’s transitions and look forward to working with you in the future.

Warm regards,
Linda

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Condo Buyers and Sellers: Mastering the Crucial Bylaws Tip


Just Sold! 💥 🏡

We had a very smooth transaction with this condo sale, and I’m sure my client will love his new home and lifestyle! Every transactions brings to light something new or an important tip to take to heart.

In the fast-paced world of condo transactions, a vital tip can make all the difference for both buyers and sellers:

Understand the condo bylaws before diving in.

Buyer Tip: 💁🏻

Buyers, don’t let the excitement of finding the perfect condo overshadow the importance of checking the bylaws upfront. Prioritize understanding restrictions that might clash with your plans—whether it’s running a business, renting or selling your unit, or making alterations. Save yourself from investing in a mismatched property.

Seller Tip: 💁🏽‍♂️

Sellers, leverage your knowledge of key restrictions or the absence thereof in the bylaws. Highlighting these details can streamline your sale. Transparency about limitations or the lack of them can be a selling point that attracts buyers.

By proactively grasping condo bylaws, buyers and sellers can save time and avoid unnecessary stress. It’s a simple tip that can ensure a smoother transaction and prevent future headaches.

In the condo market, knowledge truly is power. So, whether you’re buying or selling, mastering those bylaws might just be your secret weapon for a successful purchase or sale! 💫

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Fairfield and Westport Real Estate Market: November 2023

Holidays are coming!

As the holiday season approaches 🥳, Fairfield and Westport homeowners are eager to understand the trajectory of the real estate market. Questions about whether it will persist or come to a halt are on many minds, especially for those contemplating a move and uncertain about the ideal timing. Let’s delve into the recent market activity to gain insights and set expectations.

The October report is in!

The October 2023 report has arrived, providing a comprehensive overview of this month compared to the same period last year. Explore the What Sold Reports for a detailed look at all single-family home sales in Fairfield and Westport, Connecticut during October 2023. For those who appreciate visuals, charts await you below! 🤩

7 Things to know about what happened in October:

Yes, mortgage rate and price increases have sidelined some buyers, but not enough to offset the low inventory. Here are seven points to understand about what happened in October.

  1. INVENTORY WAS DOWN 19.2% in Fairfield and 5.7% in Westport.
  2. UNIT SALES WERE DOWN 27.9% in Fairfield and UP 19.0% in Westport.
  3. MARKET TIME WAS DOWN averaging 40 days in Fairfield and 43 days in Westport.
  4. MEDIAN SALE PRICE WAS UP 12.9% in Fairfield and UP 26.4% in Westport.
  5. SALE PRICES AVERAGED 103.3% and 102.2% of the list price in Fairfield and Westport respectively.
  6. SOLD OVER LIST PRICE: 68.8% in Fairfield and 52.0% in Westport.
  7. SOLD FOR OVER 95% OF LIST PRICE: 91% in Fairfield and 84% in Westport

Low inventory and strong buyer demand continue to upward pressure on prices.

Buyer tip:

When you are buying in this market, there is still a good amount of competition and a short window of time before sellers are accepting offers. So it is important that you are ready to make an informed decision and have everything you need to submit a competitive offer. This means that you have your mortgage pre-approval or proof of funds in your agent’s hands, because an offer is not complete without this critical piece!

Seller tip:

When you are selling, the market’s response to your listing depends on how compelling your asking price is for the property you are presenting and the demand for your property at the time you list your home for sale. Your agent will guide you on the strategy to maximize the demand for your listing in the current market.

So what’s the take away?

Bottom line: Sixty-seven homes sold in November 2022 which means that 134 parties made a successful move. So we can expect a good amount of people making successful moves this November as well. Will one of them be you?

People buy and sell in every season and in every market. So embrace your dream lifestyle and go for it, if now is right for you! The expert guidance of your agent will help you navigate this market to secure your new home. Reach out to me anytime with your questions about the market and to discuss your plans.

William Raveis Local Housing Data

FAIRFIELD SINGLE-FAMILY – OCTOBER 2023


WESTPORT SINGLE-FAMILY – OCTOBER 2023

If you’re not ready to think about your move yet, please refer your friends to me using the form below. Referrals are a win-win!

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Fairfield and Westport Real Estate Market: October 2023

October numbers are in!

Greetings, Fairfield and Westport homeowners. I know many of you would like to make a move but are trying to figure out the best timing for your goals.

The charts below summarize what happened in September 2023 compared to August and to September 2022. You can also view the What Sold Reports to see all the single-family homes that sold in September 2023 in Fairfield and Westport Connecticut.

If you don’t like charts, skip to the summary below! 🤩

FAIRFIELD SINGLE-FAMILY – SEPTEMBER 2023


WESTPORT SINGLE-FAMILY – SEPTEMBER 2023

William Raveis Local Housing Data

Low inventory and strong buyer demand continue to maintain some upward pressure on prices.

Yes, mortgage rate increases have sidelined some buyers, but not enough to offset the low inventory. Here are five key points to understand about the market in September this year vs last year.

  1. INVENTORY WAS DOWN 21% in Fairfield and 1% in Westport.
  2. UNIT SALES WERE DOWN 37.9% in Fairfield and 55.3% in Westport.
  3. MARKET TIME averaged 48 days in Fairfield and 58 days in Westport.
  4. MEDIAN SALE PRICE was down slightly (1.1%) in Fairfield and UP 17.4% in Westport.
  5. SALE PRICES AVERAGED 102.3% in Fairfield and 96.6% of asking in Fairfield and Westport respectively, (so pretty close to asking).
  6. SOLD OVER ASKING: 74.3% in Fairfield and 18.8% in Westport.

When you are buying in this market, there is still a good amount of competition and a relatively short window of time before sellers are accepting offers. So it is important that you are ready to make an informed decision and have everything you need to submit a competitive offer. This means that you have your mortgage pre-approval or proof of funds in your agent’s hands, because an offer is not complete without this critical piece!

When you are selling, the market’s response to your listing depends on how compelling your asking price is for the property you are presenting and the demand for your property at the time you list it for sale. In September, homes sold close to the asking price on average and went under contract in 48-58 days. Your agent will guide you on the strategy to maximize the demand for your listing in the current market.

Bottom line: There is a very nice window right now to sell your home. We are after the back-to-school rush and before the holiday craziness, after the summer heat and before the wintery mix. Buyer demand remains higher than the supply, and the inventory is still low.

People buy and sell in every market, so embrace your dream lifestyle and go for it, if now is right for you! The expert guidance of your agent will help you navigate this market to secure your new home. Reach out to me anytime with your questions about the market and to discuss your plans.

If you’re not ready to think about your move yet, please refer your friends to me using the form below. Referrals are a win-win!

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William Raveis Local Housing Data


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Taking Action 💪 to Prevent Local Crime: Residents Launch 1st Neighborhood Watch 👀 Meeting in Fairfield CT

Local crime, especially auto-theft have been on the rise, and there is something we can do about it. After attending a recent meeting with the Greater Fairfield Board of Realtors, I learned that having a Neighborhood Watch program or process in place is a key strategy to proactively prevent crime where you live.

How to Launch a Neighborhood Watch Where you Live

If you may want to start a Neighborhood Watch Program 👀 in your neighborhood, here is what I did to implement our first meeting.

First I introduced the idea and proposed the date.

Happy, Saturday, I hope this email finds you all in great spirits! I recently attended a meeting with our local Fairfield police officers, and they shared some compelling insights on neighborhood safety. One of their top recommendations is to establish a Neighborhood Watch program here on Charles Street. I believe it’s an idea worth exploring, and I’d like to hear your thoughts on it.

Here’s a brief overview of what’s been discussed:

The Idea 💡: Starting a Neighborhood Watch Program

The Purpose: To enhance the safety and security of our cherished Charles Street community, especially considering with car theft on the rise and our proximity to the train and highway.

What We Can Expect: Officer Ed Nook will join us for a kickoff meeting. This program can range from simple communication channels to regular meetings and various safety initiatives.

Benefits: According to the National Neighborhood Watch website, the advantages include stronger partnerships with law enforcement 👮🏽, reduced crime rates, a more secure community, enhanced unity 👫👬 among neighbors, and improved communication.

Next Steps: I propose we meet on Wednesday, October 4th at 6 pm. Can anyone volunteer their home as the meeting location? We will make it a cozy gathering with some pizza 🍕 and wine🍷. 😊

But first, I’d like to gather your initial feedback. Please reply to this email with:

1. Your thoughts: Do you think this is a good idea? (Y/N)

2. Availability: Can someone from your household attend the meeting on October 4th at 6 pm?

3. Safety and Communication Concerns: Are there any specific safety or communication issues that concern you?

4. Meeting Location: Any thoughts on where 🏡 we should hold our initial meeting?

Let’s work together to make our street safer, more aware, and even more neighborly. I’m excited to hear your thoughts and get this discussion started. Looking forward to your replies!

Warm regards,
Linda

If you would like to reach out to me with questions, send a note below.

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Fairfield and Westport Real Estate Market: September 2023

Hello Fairfield and Westport!

Here’s your September market report. If you are like many I know, you would like to make a move but are trying to figure out the best timing for your goals.

The charts below summarize what happened in August 2023 compared 2022. You can also view the What Sold Reports to see all the single-family homes that sold in August 2023 in Fairfield and Westport Connecticut. Additional metrics including the sale-to-list price ratio and number of cash sales are included from the MLS below.

FAIRFIELD SINGLE-FAMILY – AUGUST 2023


WESTPORT SINGLE-FAMILY – AUGUST 2023

William Raveis Local Housing Data

Low inventory and strong buyer demand continue to maintain upward pressure on prices.

Yes, mortgage rate increases have sidelined some buyers, but not enough to offset the low inventory. Here are six key points to understand about the market in August this year compared to last year.

  1. INVENTORY WAS DOWN 19.2% in Fairfield and 5.3% in Westport.
  2. UNIT SALES WERE DOWN 11% in Fairfield and 20.4% in Westport.
  3. MARKET TIME WAS DOWN to an average of 42 days in Fairfield and 39 days in Westport.
  4. SALE PRICES AVERAGED 104% – 105% of asking in both towns.
  5. ACCEPTED OFFERS VS ACTIVE LISTINGS WERE SIMILAR TO 2019 LEVELS with 13% of active listings having accepted offers in Fairfield and 8% in Westport at the end of August, (Compared to 11% in Fairfield and 6% in Westport in August 2019).
  6. CASH DEALS DECREASED in August to 28.8% of sales in Fairfield and 26.8% in Westport. This is lower than in the previous month of July when 35.1% and 38.5% of the sales were cash in Fairfield and Westport respectively. These could be purchases that were committed to before the most recent mortgage rate increases.

When you are buying in this market, it is important that you are prepared to make an informed decision and to submit a competitive offer. This means that you have your mortgage pre-approval or proof of funds in hand, because an offer is not complete without this critical piece! The good news is that new listings are coming to the market each day, so you can look forward to having new options.

If you are selling a home for which you put down a solid down payment or paid cash for, you can look forward to enjoying a high sale price and maximum equity!

On average, homes sold 104-105% above the asking price in August, yet some homes also had price reductions. The market response to your listing depends on how compelling your asking price is for the property you are presenting and the demand for your property at the time you list it for sale. Your agent will guide you on the strategy to maximize the demand for your listing in the current market.

Bottom line: Now is a still a great time to sell! Buyer demand remains higher than the supply and inventory is still low. As a buyer in this market, you can anticipate increased equity from price appreciation that is expected to continue. New listings continue to come to the market each day offering new choices. Rates may also come down in the next year or so enabling you to refinance.

Embrace your dream lifestyle with the expert guidance of your agent to secure your new home. Reach out to me anytime with your questions about the market and to discuss your plans.

If you’re not ready to think about your move yet, please refer your friends to me using the form below. Referrals are a win-win!

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William Raveis Local Housing Data


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William Raveis Wins Inman Innovators Top Brokerage 2023

It’s a pleasure and an honor to work with William Raveis Real Estate, the best real estate company in the United States!

Since 1998, the Inman Innovator Awards have honored companies, individuals and new technology that increases productivity, efficiency and transparency for consumers and real estate professionals alike. Out of more than 150,000 real estate firms in the country, only 50 or so finalists will meet the set of criteria to qualify. This year’s slate of winners was announced live at Inman Connect Las Vegas on August 10, 2023. The highest honor of “Top Brokerage” was bestowed upon William Raveis, a title that is well deserved after 50 years in the real estate industry.

William Raveis The #1 Real Estate Company in the United States!

Why William Raveis is continually named #1 locally, nationally, and globally every year? Read more on the Raveis Blog!

If you want your moving plans to be guided by an agent who has the best resources in the country, just give me a call to discuss your plans.

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🏡☀️ July 2023 Fairfield/Westport CT Housing Prices & Your Moving Plans After Summer Vacation

Prices went down a little bit in July… Because the rates are high, and all the buyers left the market, right? 🤨

-Ah…No. Prices were up again in July and we still have an imbalance ⚖️ of supply 

and demand. 

Why are Prices Still Going Up when buyers are sidelined due to interest rates?!

I want to read a quote to you from Lawrence Yun, who’s the Chief Economist 

for NAR. This puts it in perspective He says, “We need 50% more listings to reach pre-pandemic 

2019 housing inventory levels. And we need 100% growth in listings to reach an adequate 

supply.” 

So as a result, the average sale price was 104 to 105% of the listing price in Fairfield 

and Westport in July. And the accepted offers compared to the total available listings were 

also way higher than pre-pandemic levels. It has gone down a little bit from the past two years, 

but compared to 2019, accepted offers accounted for 27% of the active listings in Fairfield, 

which was DOUBLE what it was in 2019 (13%), and 15% of the available listings had accepted 

offers in Westport, which was TRIPLE what it was in 2019 (5%). So there is still extreme demand relative to the supply. 

What’s the Good News?

🏡 The GOOD NEWS is that rising prices mean that, on the sale side, you 

enjoy a high sale price. On the buy side, when you get into your new home, you can enjoy equity 

from the continued appreciation ↗️ in prices. 

🏡 New listings 🎉 are also coming on the market each day. We have 46 new listings on the market in Fairfield and Westport as we speak. 

🏡 And the market time ⏰ is a little bit longer. Instead of just a few weeks before something flies off the shelf with an accepted offer, now listings are staying on the market for an average of one to two months before going to contract, so you have a little bit more time to make decisions 😅. 

🏡 And who knows, MAYBE RATES WILL COME DOWN at the end of this year or next year 🙏! 

So, send me a note now, and when you come back from your summer vacation, think about making your move! You can also see all the July stats here.

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