Fairfield and Westport CT Real Estate Guide

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

Category Archives: Real Estate


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Trusting the Process: Insights from a Fairfield CT Broker Tour

I Surveyed Six Listings During A Broker Tour to See Where the Sellers Were Going

As a realtor in Fairfield, CT, I constantly seek to understand the dynamics of our local real estate market. Recently, I participated in a broker tour and found something truly fascinating. Out of the six houses I visited on tour, I asked the agents where their sellers were headed next. The responses were quite diverse and offered a peek into the sellers’ mindsets.

Seller Plans Were Varied With A Surprising Theme…

  • One was an estate sale.
  • Two sellers had already bought their next home.
  • One was simply moving up the street.
  • One was moving out of state.
  • The remaining three had no idea where they were going next!!

50% of the sellers had no definitive plan for their next move!

Yes, you read that right—50% of the sellers had no definitive plan for their next move. They chose to trust the process, navigating the real estate market with an open mind and flexibility. This approach, while unconventional, can open up exciting possibilities for both sellers and buyers.

Why Trust the Process?

  1. Competitive Buyer: In the current sellers’ market, it is common for properties to receive multiple offers, especially in desirable markets and for homes that appeal to a lot of buyers. This creates a challenge even without the contingency to sell your house first, but with this added contingency, the only way to make your offer more competitive is to significantly outperform the others on price and other terms. If your house is under contract with no or few contingencies to close, you are in a much stronger position to obtain your next home than if you have not even committed to the selling process.
  2. Flexibility: If you are a seller who can be open to “going with the flow”, you can explore a broader range of options without the pressure of immediate relocation.
  3. Market Dynamics: When more sellers adopt this mindset, it can lead to increased inventory and more choices for everyone in the marketplace.
  4. Contingencies for Peace of Mind: You can protect yourself as a seller by adding contingencies that your sale is subject to finding suitable housing. This ensures you are not left without a home.

Imagine the Possibilities

If more sellers embraced this flexible approach, the real estate market could become more dynamic and fluid. It encourages a more open and trusting environment where transactions can happen more organically.

As we navigate this ever-evolving market, let’s remember that sometimes, trusting the process can lead to unexpected and wonderful opportunities.

Feel free to reach out if you’re considering selling your home or looking for your next dream house in Fairfield, CT. I’m here to guide you every step of the way!

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#FairfieldCTRealEstate #RealtorTips #TrustTheProcess #HomeSelling #RealEstateMarket #BrokerTour #MovingTips #HouseHunting #SellerInsights #RealEstateAdvice


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Fairfield and Westport Real Estate Market Report June 2024 🏡☀️


Happy June! 🌼

Here’s a quick look at what happened last month in our local Fairfield and Westport markets. If you’re curious which homes sold, take a look at the What Sold Reports.

Here’s what happened in May 2024.

Prices fluctuated.

  • Single-family home sale prices averaged 105 percent of asking in Fairfield and 103 percent in Westport, up from about 100% last month.
  • The median sale price in Fairfield was $846,619, DOWN 13.2% compared to May 2023 but up from last month. The median sale price per square foot was UP 14.1% to $433 and also up from last month. In Westport, the median sale price was $1,975,775, DOWN 24% from a year ago and down from last month. The median sale price per square foot was $498, which was DOWN 10.1% from last May. The fluctuation could be due to the mix of homes that sold, such as more lower-priced homes.

Pace: Short market time, flat sales, new listings => 3-4 months of supply.

  • Days on market averaged a brisk 25 in Fairfield and 23 days in Westport pointing to a significant amount of cash deals. In Fairfield, 40 percent of the homes were purchased with cash, and 34.6 percent of the Westport sales were cash deals in May. Though some listings sat for much longer than average, the overall market time was much shorter than last May.
  • Unit sales in Fairfield were 45, the same as in May 2023, and 26 in Westport which was down 3.7% compared to last May. Inventory was up in Fairfield with 156 single-family homes for sale and down in Westport with 100 homes for sale.
  • The months of supply metric was way UP (30.4%) in Fairfield and slightly UP (4.4%) in Westport compared to May 2023, at 3.45 and 3.7 months respectively. There were 50 New and Coming Soon MLS listings in Fairfield and Westport combined at the time this was written.

What does it mean?

Continued low inventory and short market time favored sellers. There were still multiple-offer situations, but these were on a case-by-case basis. Some homes sold for full price or more than asking, and some sold for less.

Bottom line.

If now is a good time for you to pursue a new lifestyle, the current market always offers opportunities. In some cases, there is more balance than before, but we are still in a seller’s market due to low inventory. When buying, patience and more ‘user-friendly’ interest rates, now in the 6s, can work in you favor! Your agent’s expert guidance will help you navigate this market for a successful sale or purchase. 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 marketing strategy and negotiations 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 may or may not be some flexibility with timing and price. It is on a house-by-house basis. There is still a predominance of solid competition and a short window before sellers accept offers. It all depends on how much competition exists for a particular home at the point in time when you want to pursue it. You will need to be ready to make an informed decision if you really want to get your house. 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! Keep in mind that if you will be financing and enter a multiple-bid situation, 35-40 percent of the other bidders may be offering cash, so you will have to compensate with other attractive terms to make your offer more competitive. Here’s a guide for what you can expect.

What are your thoughts about the market and interest rates? Would you love to be in a new home this summer? ☀️ Share your thoughts in the comments or send me a note below.

William Raveis Local Housing Data

FAIRFIELD SINGLE-FAMILY – MAY 2024


WESTPORT SINGLE-FAMILY – MAY 2024


To review last month’s market report.

Want a quick online home estimate?

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William Raveis Local Housing Data


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10 Reasons You Want to Come to Fairfield CT this Summer!

Click image to see 5-minute video!

Are you searching for the ideal summer escape or a vibrant community to settle down in, but can’t find a place that ticks all the boxes? Let me introduce you to Fairfield—where pristine beaches, a bustling downtown, convenient train access, rich cultural experiences, and picturesque views come together perfectly. Stay with me to discover 10 reasons you want to come to Fairfield this summer! Fairfield, CT, is a popular destination for summer rentals for a variety of reasons. Here are 10 reasons people are coming to Fairfield this summer and beyond!

00:37 Cute summer rental: 1018 Reef Road, Fairfield CT

00:55 Beaches: Fairfield boasts five beautiful beaches including Jennings, Penfield, South Pine Creek, Sasco, and Southport Beach, offering opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and various water sports.

02:49 Proximity to New York City: Located just about an hour from New York City, Fairfield is an attractive getaway for city dwellers looking for a nearby retreat. 02:59 Family-friendly Environment: The town is known for its safe, family-friendly atmosphere with plenty of parks, playgrounds, and family-oriented events. Cultural Attractions: Fairfield has a rich cultural scene with museums, theaters, and historic sites. The Fairfield Museum and History Center and the Quick Center for the Arts are notable examples.

04:10 Outdoor Activities: Fairfield offers numerous parks, hiking trails, and golf courses, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Dining and Shopping: The town has a vibrant downtown area with a variety of restaurants, cafes, and boutique shops, providing a pleasant experience for foodies and shoppers alike.

4:20 Festivals and Events: Fairfield hosts numerous summer events and festivals, such as the Fairfield County Irish Festival and the Fairfield Sidewalk Sale, which draw crowds and create a lively atmosphere.

04:26 Community Vibe: The town has a strong sense of community, with friendly residents and a welcoming environment, making it appealing for those looking for a pleasant and engaging place to stay. Educational Opportunities: Fairfield is home to Fairfield University and Sacred Heart University, offering educational and cultural events throughout the summer that attract visitors.

04:40 Scenic Beauty: With its charming coastal scenery, historic homes, and well-maintained public spaces, Fairfield provides a picturesque setting for a relaxing summer vacation.

View the rental listing at 1018 Reef Road, Fairfield CT https://smartmls-portal.connectmls.co…

 #FairfieldBeaches #JenningsBeach #PenfieldBeach #BeachLife #NearNYC #NYCGetaway #CityEscape #FamilyFriendly #SafeCommunity #FamilyFun #FairfieldCulture #Museums #TheaterLovers #OutdoorAdventures #Hiking #Golfing #NatureLovers #FairfieldDining #ShopLocal #Foodies #ShoppingSpree #FairfieldFestivals #SummerEvents #LocalEvents #CommunitySpirit #FriendlyNeighbors #WelcomingTown #FairfieldUniversity #SacredHeartUniversity #ScenicFairfield #CoastalViews #HistoricHomes #PicturePerfectSacredHeartUniversity #SummerLearning #lindaraymondrealtor #YourCastleMyMission #Gabagool #esh


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Exciting news for all Fairfield residents! 🎉 


Soon, you won’t need to call the police department for crime statistics. You will be able to access real-time data directly on their website, making our community safer and more informed.

Special thanks to Sergeant Michael Stahl from Fairfield’s Administrative Services Bureau for sharing this update during our insightful sales meeting. He shared crime statistics with us in addition to breaking down all the departments and services at the police department.

I didn’t realize how comprehensive and diverse the services are that the Fairfield Police provide for us. From the Marine Unit and Dive Team to Crisis Intervention, Special Victims, and Quality of Life, they cover all the bases. Most recently they have added a social worker who was a prior officer to assist the police as well as people in need.


I started the first Neighborhood Watch group in my neighborhood, and you may want to do the same to help stay informed and have a communication process to be proactive in preventing crime and helping one another in the event it’s needed. Feel free to reach out to me with any questions about starting a group.

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#FairfieldCT #CrimeData #CommunitySafety#RealEstateNews #NeighborhoodWatch#LocalUpdate #StayInformed #RealtorLife#FairfieldPolice


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Exciting Home Win in Fairfield University Area!


Exciting Home Win in Fairfield University Area! 🏡✨ Thrilled for my happy client!

After a competitive bidding war and successful negotiations, she has secured a charming mini-estate in the Fairfield University area for $725,000. The seller agreed to address high radon levels, asbestos-wrapped ductwork, termites, and an internally venting dryer.

Now, my client has a home full of potential and unique features, including antique wrought iron gates with her initials, a beautiful and spacious property, a secret loop-driveway, a massive four-car garage with a hidden terrace, a charming covered front porch, a huge slate patio, and a family room with vaulted ceilings and sliders to the backyard.

The buyer can’t wait to start bringing the home to its full potential. The seller is also excited while preparing for her nearby move during her temporary rent-back. Congratulations to all involved! 🏠 🎉 Here’s a success story from the seller’s side.

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#FairfieldCT#RealEstateWin#HappyClients#DreamHome#HomeSweetHome#NewHomeJourney#RealtorLife#FairfieldUniversityArea#PropertyGoals#HomeNegotiation#RealEstateSuccess#HouseHunting#LindaRaymondRealtor#Yourcastlemymission#HomeInspection#FairfieldCTRealEstate#WilliamRaveisSouthport#williamraveis


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If You Knew Your Home’s True Value, What Would You Do Next?

As a seasoned realtor serving the beautiful communities of Fairfield and Westport, CT, I’ve found that one question consistently ignites the spark of curiosity in homeowners: “If you knew your home’s true value, what would you do next?”

Knowing your home’s true value is a game-changer. It opens up a world of possibilities, from strategic financial planning to making informed decisions about your future. Here’s a deeper dive into what you can do once you have this crucial piece of information.

Plan Your Next Move: Upsize, Downsize, or Relocate

Understanding your home’s value gives you the leverage to plan your next big move with confidence. Perhaps your family is growing, and you’re dreaming of a larger home in a top-notch school district. Or maybe you’re looking to downsize and enjoy the simplicity of a cozier space with fewer maintenance demands. Whether you’re staying in Fairfield and Westport or considering a relocation, knowing your home’s worth can help you set a realistic budget for your next purchase.

Home Improvement: Invest Wisely

Thinking of renovating? A precise valuation can guide your investment decisions. Focus on home improvements that will yield the highest returns. In Fairfield and Westport, buyers often appreciate modern kitchens, updated bathrooms, and energy-efficient features. These enhancements not only increase your living comfort but also significantly boost your property’s market value when you decide to sell.

Estate Planning and Financial Strategy

For those looking at the bigger picture, understanding your home’s value is crucial for estate planning and long-term financial strategy. It allows you to make informed decisions about asset distribution, ensuring your loved ones are well taken care of. Additionally, a clear picture of your home’s worth can enhance your retirement planning, giving you peace of mind about your future.

Get Started: Obtain an Accurate Home Valuation

The first step in unlocking these opportunities is to obtain an accurate home valuation. As a realtor deeply familiar with Fairfield and Westport, I provide comprehensive home assessments that consider local market trends, recent sales, and unique property features. This valuation isn’t just a number; it’s a strategic tool that can guide your next steps, ensuring you make the most informed and beneficial decisions for your future.

Conclusion

So, if you knew your home’s true value, what would you do next? Whether you’re considering selling, refinancing, remodeling, or planning for the future, knowing your home’s value empowers you to take control of your financial destiny. Contact me today for a personalized home valuation and let’s unlock the full potential of your property in Fairfield or Westport, and nearby CT towns.

Check out your quick online home estimate!

For more insights and personalized real estate advice, follow my blog and stay connected. Your dream home or ideal sale is just a step away!

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#RealEstate #FairfieldCT #WestportCT #HomeValue #HomeSellingTips #Refinance #RealEstateInvesting #HomeImprovement #EstatePlanning #FinancialStrategy #PropertyValuation #CTRealEstate #LocalRealtor #HomeBuyers #HomeSellers #MarketTrends #DreamHome #RealEstateAdvice #HouseHunting #InvestmentProperty #LuxuryRealEstate #HomeEquity #MortgageTips #PropertyMarket


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Real Estate Market 🏡 Report May 2024: Fairfield CT and Westport CT


Happy May! 🌸

Here’s a quick look at what happened last month in our local Fairfield and Westport markets. If you’re curious which homes sold, take a look at the What Sold Reports.

Here’s what happened in April 2024.

Prices fluctuated slightly.

  • Single-family home sale prices averaged 101% of asking in Fairfield and 100% in Westport.
  • The median sale price in Fairfield was $821,000, DOWN 6.7% compared to April 2023 and also down from last month. The median sale price per square foot was also DOWN slightly, by 1.9% to $410. In Westport, the median sale price was $2,333,000, DOWN 2.8% from a year ago. The median sale price per square foot was $503, which was UP 0.7% from last April.

Pace varied: short market time & variable sales volume by town

  • Days on market averaged of 23 days in Fairfield and 33 days in Westport illustrating a significant amount of brisk transactions that were likely cash deals. The market time was much shorter than last April.
  • Unit sales were down 58% in Fairfield but UP 81.3% in Westport compared to April 2023. Inventory was up in Fairfield with 158 single-family homes for sale and down in Westport with 94 homes for sale.
  • The months of supply metric was UP compared to April 2023 at about 3.5 months in both towns.

What does it mean?

Continued low inventory and short market time favored sellers. However average sale prices were closer to the asking price than we have seen in a while, which was helpful for buyers. There were still multiple-offer situations, but these were on a case-by-case basis. Some homes sold for full price or more than asking, and some sold for less. During the week of this post (mid-May) rates ticked down into the six percent range for many loan products, so more people may feel encouraged to pursue a move this season.

Bottom line.

If now is a good time for your new lifestyle goals, the current market offers the opportunity of a shift toward more balance along with more ‘user-friendly’ interest rates. Your agent’s expert guidance will help you navigate this market for a successful sale or purchase. 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 and negotiations 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 a bit more flexibility in timing and price than in the previous months. However, this is now on a house-by-house basis. There is still a predominance of solid competition and a relatively short window before sellers accept offers. So it is important that you are ready to make an informed decision if you really want to get your house. 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 plan to jump into the market this spring? 🌸 Share your thoughts in the comments or send me a note below.

William Raveis Local Housing Data

FAIRFIELD SINGLE-FAMILY – APRIL 2024


WESTPORT SINGLE-FAMILY – APRIL 2024

To review last month’s market report.

Want a quick online home estimate?

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Thank you for your response. ✨

William Raveis Local Housing Data


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Lunch and Learn! Real Estate Revelations

As we dined at the elegant yet fun Gabagool in Fairfield CT, indulging in their delectable Rice Bwalls and Mediterranean Dip alongside sips of the crisp Italian beer Forst and bubbly prosecco and enjoying their cushy seats, our conversation delved deep into the intricacies of real estate transactions.

Here are some key takeaways 🤩 from our discussion, showcasing the dedication and problem-solving prowess required to serve our clients effectively:

1. Prioritizing Privacy and Peace of Mind: 😌We recounted a recent sale where our client chose to sell swiftly to the first buyer, bypassing a potential bidding war. For them, privacy and a hassle-free process trumped squeezing out every last dollar. It’s a reminder that for some, the intangible benefits outweigh the financial gains.
2. Timing is Everything: ⏰ A seemingly perfect home for a buyer turned out to be a sleepless night of doubts. However, patience paid off when they found their true dream home the following year. It underscores the importance of trusting the timing and being open to the unexpected twists in the journey.
3. Easing the Burden: 🏋️‍♀️ Many homeowners delay selling due to the daunting task of emptying out the house. However, discovering that their agent could handle the entire process, from decluttering to staging, was a game-changer. It’s a testament to the value of comprehensive service and alleviating clients’ burdens.
4. Clearing Mental Roadblocks: 🤗 Sometimes, buyers may hesitate due to fixable issues or lingering doubts. By addressing their concerns head-on and guiding them through the decision-making process, we can pave the way for a smooth transaction and a happy homeowner.

At Gabagool, amidst savory bites and refreshing drinks, we reflected on these anecdotes that underscore the heart of our profession: understanding, empathy, and problem-solving. Each transaction is a journey, and by staying attuned to our clients’ needs, we can navigate any obstacle and unlock success in real estate.

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#RealEstateWisdom#ClientSuccess#ProblemSolvers#RealEstateInsights#ClientFocus#ProblemSolving#EmpatheticService#ClientEmpathy#lunchandlearn#Lunch


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Westport Arts Advisory Committee Welcomes a New Outdoor Sculpture, Niki Ketchman’s PASSAGE

Here’s the video of Niki telling about how she made the sculpture and the process involved in getting it to the park!

The program:

☙ Opening remarks – Jen Tooker First Selectwoman

☙ Comments about the sculpture project – Nancy Diamond co-chair WAAC

☙ Introducing Niki Ketchman – Nancy Diamond

☙ A few words from the artist – Niki Ketchman

☙ Closing with a poem from our poet laureate – Kathie Bennewitz to read the poem.

Here’s how the sculpture got to Westport’s Pasacreta Park along Riverside Avenue.

We prepared Passage for pick up from our home in Westport and enjoyed nice weather for the transport. But we endured a cold, steady rain along the river to install Passage. There is a cement slab below ground level to which the solid base of Passage is attached, so the sculpture is well-secured beneath the surface but appears to be standing on the ground. You can see the process in action in the clips below.

I’m so excited for my mom! To learn more about her work, visit NikiKetchman.com

Reach out below with questions or comments.

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@MocaWestport
@14Sculptors
@artistscollectiveofWestport
@Fairfielduam
@WestportLibrary
@thebookshopwestport


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Real Estate Market Report April 2024 🌷: Fairfield CT and Westport CT


April is Nearly Behind Us! 🏡 🌷

Here’s a quick look at what happened last month in our local Fairfield and Westport markets. If you’re curious which homes sold, take a look at the What Sold Reports.

Here’s what happened in March 2024.

Prices were up.

  • Single-family home sale prices averaged 102% of asking in Fairfield and 99% in Westport.
  • The median sale price in Fairfield was $870,000, UP 15.7% compared to March 2023 and also up from last month. The median sale price per square foot was also UP 7.3% to $403. In Westport, the median sale price was $2,250,000, UP 11.9%. The median sale price per square foot was $489, which was DOWN 3.9% from last March.

Pace was down.

  • Days on market averaged of 82 days in Fairfield and 100 days in Westport.
  • Unit sales were down 29.8% in Fairfield and 16.7% in Westport compared to March 2023. Inventory was up in Fairfield with 115 single-family homes for sale and down in Westport with 78 homes for sale.
  • The months of supply metric was up in both towns from March 2023 but still in the two-to-three-month range. This was the result of a slower rate of sales.

What does it mean?

The market in March showed continued low inventory which was the biggest rate-limiting factor. Buyer demand also continued despite the inventory shortage which maintained upward pressure on prices. Though rates have not ticked down yet as hoped, more homes started to come to the market in April.

Bottom line.

People buy and sell in every season and in every market. So embrace your new lifestyle goals if the right time for you is now. Your agent’s expert guidance will help you navigate this market for a successful sale or purchase. 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 and negotiations 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 a bit more flexibility in timing and price than in the previous months. However, this is now on a house-by-house basis. There is still a predominance of solid competition and a relatively short window before sellers accept offers. So it is important that you are ready to make an informed decision if you really want to get your house. 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 plan to jump into the market this spring? 🌷 Share your thoughts in the comments or send me a note below.

William Raveis Local Housing Data

FAIRFIELD SINGLE-FAMILY – MARCH 2024


WESTPORT SINGLE-FAMILY – MARCH 2024

To review last month’s market report.

Want a quick online home estimate?

← Back

Thank you for your response. ✨

William Raveis Local Housing Data