Fairfield and Westport CT Real Estate Guide

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

Tag Archives: housing market


by Leave a comment

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!

← Back

Thank you for your response. ✨

William Raveis Local Housing Data


by Leave a comment

🏃‍♀️💨 Don’t Miss the Window of Opportunity to View 👀 6 Crockett Street, Rowayton CT this Week! ✨🏡

View Ariel & Interior Video

They say good things come to those who wait, and this treasure is now here for you in Rowayton! 😍

A stunning, romantic antique Victorian home nestled on enchanting 6 Crockett Street is now available to see after its windows were restored to their original glory! 🪟🔨 Added bonus: It is now sporting its best festive Halloween 🎃 decor.

Imagine sipping your morning coffee on the charming front porch or blue stone patio, surrounded by the fall blooms and the promise of exceptional views for every season! 🌞🍁 Or stroll down a block and relax in the cafe downtown.

✨ What to expect:
🏡 Timeless Victorian charm and history
🪟 Restored original glass windows for authentic charm, light, and energy efficiency
🌳 Lush and colorful garden spaces
🛌 5 bedrooms & 4 and a half baths
🌊 Steps to the harbor & water view glimpses upstairs!
🏞️ Prime downtown Rowayton location

📆 Arrange for a showing this week and a chance to make this dreamy Victorian 💫 your forever home. Your slice of Rowayton heaven is just within reach! 🏡 🤩

← Back

Thank you for your response. ✨

#CrockettStreetCharm #RowaytonLiving #HomeSweetHome #VictorianElegance #ComingSoon #DreamHome


by Leave a comment

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!

← Back

Thank you for your response. ✨

William Raveis Local Housing Data


by Leave a comment

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!

← Back

Thank you for your response. ✨

William Raveis Local Housing Data


by Leave a comment

Keeping Fairfield Safe: Realtors Get the Inside Scoop from The Police on Crime Trends and Safety Tips!

See the clip!
Fairfield Police came to speak to Realtors today during the Greater Fairfield Board of Realtors meeting hosted by the wonderful Audubon Society, and the @raveisfairfieldsouthport office had a strong presence! Officers, Tony Granada and Ed Nook shared crime trends, gave safety recommendations, and answered questions. They also emphasized how the police are here to help the community.

The TOP CRIME TRENDS in town were “opportunity crimes” like theft of cars left unlocked with keys in them 😳 and identity theft, as well as people stealing checks from mailboxes, “washing them” adding to the amount, and making the check out to themselves. 

We also learned that the police are not permitted to chase stolen vehicles! 

So the top🔝tips are:

1) LOCK 🔐 YOUR CAR 🚘 AND TAKE YOUR KEYS 🔑!
2) Avoid mailing a check, but if you have to, take it directly to the post office.
3) Be sure to report 📣any signs of a crime asap to the police department. If you can’t get through, call 9-1-1. There are officers at the ready and on patrol around town, and they can get to a scene quickly if given the alert ‼️ 
4) Neighborhood Watch 👀 is recommended. DM me to learn more.

← Back

Thank you for your response. ✨


#crimetrends
#autotheft
#mailtheft
#checkforgery
#neighborhoodwatch
#raveissouthport
#williamraveis
#lindaraymondrealtor


by 2 Comments

Decoding Home 🏡 Valuation: 4 Ways Your Agent’s Analysis Differs from Quick Online Estimates

See the video clip

It can’t hurt to check out a quick online home estimate to see what your house is worth, right?

Yes, and no.

Quick estimates from websites such as Zillow can be helpful as well as very misleading😳. As long as you understand that the number you get is a broad estimate based on an algorithm with limited capabilities you’re all good 🤩!

So what are four ways your agent’s analysis differs from a quick online estimate from Zillow?

  1. Market Timing – The recommended list price from your agent is based on the most recent sale activity near your home as well as the current potential competition (active listings). Sites like Zillow may or may not use the most current market data. They pull from tax records, which may have errors, might not be up to date, and don’t account for market conditions.
  2. Home Improvements – Your agent tours your home with you and takes detailed notes about all the assets you have and improvements you have made. Has Zillow come for a visit lately..? 🧐
  3. Location, Location, Location – Your agent knows if your home is on a quiet street with incredible views, and close to all the local amenities, as well as if there are location challenges we need to strategically account for. The online algorithms do not have a way to assess value based on the characteristics of each home’s location.
  4. Presentation – Your agent knows that when your home shows well, this usually results in a faster sale and more money in your pocket. Furthermore, your agent will help guide you on ways to boost your home’s presentation so you can secure top dollar. The online algorithms don’t have eyes into anyone’s living room.

So if you’re curious about an instant home estimate, check Zillow and the William Raveis Home Estimate Tool for comparison. When you’re ready to know where you stand so you can make informed decisions, give your agent a call. If you knew your home’s true value, what would you do next?

← Back

Thank you for your response. ✨

  1. #HomeValuation
  2. #RealEstateAnalysis
  3. #AgentVsOnlineEstimates
  4. #MarketTiming
  5. #HomeImprovements
  6. #LocationMatters
  7. #PropertyPresentation
  8. #RealEstateTips
  9. #ZillowEstimates
  10. #RealEstateInsights
  11. #PropertyValue
  12. #AgentExpertise
  13. #InformedDecisions
  14. #HomeSelling
  15. #WilliamRaveisRealEstate
  16. #LindaRaymondRealtor
  17. #RealEstateAdvice
  18. #PropertyMarket
  19. #ComparingEstimates
  20. #HomeWorth


by Leave a comment

Navigating the Current Real Estate Landscape: Waiting for Interest Rates to Return to 2.85%

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.

← Back

Thank you for your response. ✨


by Leave a comment

Dreaming of Barbie’s castle? Now, let’s make the savvy grown-up choice!

See Instagram Reel!

If you’re dreaming of Barbie’s Castle, now’s the time to make the practical, savvy, grown-up choice! 🙂

Step into History and Luxury: Discover 6 Crockett Street, Rowayton’s Charming Victorian Gem! Welcome to this enchanting home on coveted, historic Oysterman’s Row along the harbor. It boasts a walk-to-everything location, charming wrap-around porch, idyllic gardens, new stone walkways, & delicate wrought iron gates. Bright & airy with 9-ft ceilings & tall windows, the gracious foyer leads to a spacious family room & elegant fireplace. Save energy with propane, tankless hot water, spray foam insulation, new Anderson windows upstairs, & maintenance-free Azek on the porch. Gaze at the water from upstairs before exploring the charming maritime community. Walk to the beach, quaint eateries, & Pinkney Park. Explore bustling SONO, or hop on a train to NYC in under an hour. Enjoy covered parking for 2 cars in the garage & carport. Experience the joy of history, luxury, & serenity in this one-of-a-kind home.

Call for more information. Linda Raymond, Realtor®
2 0 3 – 9 1 2 – 4 4 4 0
William Raveis Real Estate 2525 Post Rd – Southport, CT 06890

In the meantime, there’s no harm in channeling your inner Barbie! An enthusiastic group from our Southport office sure did! ….We saw the movie too! 🙂


#BarbieDreamsToReality
#GrownUpSavvyLiving
#PracticalLuxuryChoice
#RowaytonCT
#Rowayton
#CTRealEstate
#HomeForSale
#VintageHome
#ComingSoon
#DowntownMarina
#HistoricHome
#DreamHome
#HomeSweetHome
#HouseHunting
#RealEstate
#HomeBuyers
#HomeDecor
#RowaytonLiving
#VintageCharm
#HomeInspiration
#HouseGoals
#DreamHouse
#RowaytonLife
#Yourcastlemymission
#LindaRaymondRealtor

← Back

Thank you for your response. ✨


by Leave a comment

🏡☀️ 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.

← Back

Thank you for your response. ✨

  • #FairfieldRealEstate
  • #FairfieldCTRealEstate
  • #WestportCTRealEstate
  • #WestportRealEstate
  • #HousingTrends
  • #July2023Update
  • #HomeBuying
  • #HomeSelling
  • #RealEstateOpportunities
  • #MarketInsights
  • #SummerVacation
  • #LocalRealtor
  • #RealEstateUpdates
  • #PropertyMarket
  • #BuyOrSell
  • #HousingPrices
  • #HousingMarketAnalysis
  • #RealEstateAdvice
  • #MoveAfterSummer
  • #Homeownership
  • #RealEstateTips
  • #PropertyInvestment
  • #YourCastleMyMission
  • #LindaRaymondRealEstate
  • #WilliamRaveisRealEstate
  • #WilliamRaveisSouthport


by Leave a comment

August 2023 Real Estate Update: Summer Market Trends in Fairfield & Westport CT

Hello Fairfield and Westport!

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.

I am seeing some buyer resistance to prices due to the added expense of current interest rates. However, the imbalance of supply and demand still keeps us in a seller’s market despite the rising rates. Here’s the latest market update.

The charts below show a summary of what happened in July 2023 compared to last July. My What Sold Reports include a list and summary of all the single-family homes that sold in July 2023 in Fairfield and Westport Connecticut.

FAIRFIELD SINGLE-FAMILY – JULY 2023


WESTPORT SINGLE-FAMILY – JULY 2023

William raveis Local Housing Data

Low inventory and strong buyer demand continue to push prices of many homes higher and also limit the overall market pace in Fairfield and Westport.

Here are six key points to understand about the market in July this year compared to last July.

  1. INVENTORY WAS DOWN 13 – 14% in the two towns.
  2. UNIT SALES WERE DOWN 39% in Fairfield and UP 6% in Westport.
  3. SALE PRICES AVERAGED 104% – 105% of asking in both towns.
  4. ACCEPTED OFFERS COMPARED TO ACTIVE LISTINGS REMAINED HIGH at 27% of active listings in Fairfield and 15% in Westport. Although these are lower percentages than in July of 2020 through July 2022, the accepted offer levels were still significantly higher than those of July 2019 pre-pandemic; double in Fairfield (13%) and triple in Westport (5%)!
  5. MARKET TIME INCREASED to a range of 36 – 50 days to contract.
  6. CASH DEALS comprised 36% and 38% of the sales in July in Fairfield and Westport respectively.


When you are buying in this market, you want to be prepared to come in with a competitive offer. This includes being prepared with a mortgage pre-approval or proof of funds in hand so you can make an offer quickly when you see a home you want! Remember, there’s a 36-38% chance you may be competing with cash offers, so you will want to do everything you can to present a competitive offer. The good news is that new listings are coming to the market each day.

If you are selling a home that you paid cash for, you can look forward to a high sale price and maximum equity!

There are multiple offers on some properties, while others receive just one, and some will even have a price reduction if the initial price was too ambitious. Homes on average were still selling above the asking price in July. Some are selling for full price, some above, and some are selling below. It depends on the demand for the individual property.

Bottom line: Now is a still a great time to sell! Buyer demand remains high. 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. Rates may also come down enabling you to refinance. Committing to the process will get you to your new home!

Reach out to me anytime with your questions about the market and to discuss your plans.

Not ready to think about your move yet? Please refer your friends to me using the form below. Referrals are a win-win!

← Back

Thank you for your response. ✨

William Raveis Local Housing Data