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.
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.
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.
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.
Pacevaried: short market time & variable sales volumeby 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.
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.
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
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.
Pacewas 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.
In the intricate dance of real estate transactions, negotiation is the heartbeat that drives a successful home purchase. As a seasoned realtor dedicated to my clients’ satisfaction, I employ a comprehensive approach to negotiation, ensuring my clients have every advantage to secure the property they desire and navigate smoothly to the finish line of closing. From initial showings to final walkthroughs, every step presents an opportunity to leverage key points, overcome obstacles, and move the process forward. Let’s delve into the 40 critical negotiation points at a glance that I meticulously manage to turn dreams into reality.
New construction: detailed specs, survey, floor plans, timeline
Home warranty
Seller rent back
Date extensions
Buyer visits before closing
Walkthrough
Walkthrough follow-up
Keys, clickers, codes, manuals
Closing time, sign removal
Navigating the complexities of a real estate transaction requires skillful negotiation at every turn. By addressing each of the 34 negotiation points outlined above, I ensure my clients are empowered to make informed decisions and secure the home of their dreams. From purchase price to closing time, no detail is overlooked in my commitment to achieving their goals. With a trusted realtor by their side, home buyers can confidently navigate the journey from offer presentation to sign removal, knowing they have an advocate dedicated to their success. Reach out to me today to discuss how we can work together to turn your real estate aspirations into a reality.
Dive into our staging walkthrough and unlock the secrets to selling your property faster! See how staging can optimize space, highlight assets, and spark emotions! Don’t miss this chance to create a buyer’s dream by elevating any environment and creating captivating spaces!
Many sellers hesitate to invest in staging as a marketing strategy when putting their homes on the market. It’s because they figure buyers can visualize the space they want, right?
Put Your Buyer Hat On for A Minute
But if you put your buyer hat on for a minute, and try to visualize the space differently, it’s not so easy. Buyers will often miss seeing the best use of the space, the key assets of the space, and they will miss out on the positive emotional impact of the space, all of which staging can provide.
So I wanted to show you a few video examples, and you can see for yourself.
The Dining Room Is Set for Guests
The first example is the beautifully staged dining room. It shows that there’s ample space for seating and that it’s conveniently located just off the kitchen. The light colors are attractive and lighten the space, and the decorative and delicate vase of branches shows off the bay window and an area for a side table. The art on the wall and centerpieces down the centerline of the table give an emotional feeling, like, hey, I would like to entertain here someday!
The Living Room Showcases Its Inviting Features
The key features in the living room are that it has a beautiful raised tray ceiling, a lovely gas fireplace, ample seating, and sliders to the deck outside. The staging showcases these features by using simple lines with light colors and a painting that brings the eye right up and over to the fireplace. A bright green throw blanket on the sofa is a splash of color that pulls the eye to the doors and the view outside. The staging also shows that there’s plenty of room for seating with two large sofas and plenty of room to spare. The only thing I might have done differently is use a club chair on each side of the sliders so that the views are straight out to the side instead of a sofa blocking it. This coffee table also features beautiful books about global travel that speak to an aspirational lifestyle that everyone wants to have!
The Primary BedroomIs a Luxurious Sanctuary
Staging in the primary bedroom is soft and luxurious. It shows an oversized bed with a tall headboard. The light pictures on either side of the bed bring the eye upward toward the high ceiling. And the throw blanket brings the eye to the window and a nice deck outside. Last, but not least, there are some little accessories on the dresser like perfume and flowers that make you feel like you’ve just about moved in!
The Second Bedroom, Previously Used as An Office, Reclaims Its Function
The second bedroom used to be set up as an office, but now it’s staged to show that it can sleep two. And the bright colors and mirrors emphasize the ample natural light and give a feeling of fun.
The Open Lower Level Gains Three Functional Spaces…And The Office Returns
The lower level is big and spacious. But it’s hard to determine how to make the best use of it unless this is not illustrated. So three functional areas were set up by the stager. There is an office with a window. There is a beautiful seating area with a fireplace and sliders that go to the outside along with a bookshelf area. And there is a beautiful exercise area. The three functional areas are visually separated yet also linked together with matching colors and a consistent design theme, in this case, horses!
The Staging StrategyAccomplished Four Key Objectives
Show the ideal use of the space.
Highlight the assets.
Evoke a powerful and positive emotional response.
Create a fabulous setting and generate beautiful digital media that is strategically distributed to attract the largest matching pool of buyers.
Staging is just one component used in the successful sale of a home. Here’s the full story of selling a luxury condo in Westport CT.
In the whirlwind world of real estate, where some listings seem to vanish as quickly as they appear, the role of a skilled Realtor is often underestimated. But behind every seamless sale lies a meticulous process behind the scenes, expertly navigated by a dedicated listing agent. Let me take you through the unique journey of selling my client’s home, in this case, a luxury condo in Westport CT – from initial contemplation to the exhilarating moment of sealing the deal. The story that consumers typically hear consists of: new listing, five days, three offers, under contract, over ask, sold. But here’s just one example of the reality behind the scenes.
To Sell or Not to Sell?
The journey began in 2022 when my client, a frequent traveler with multiple properties, contemplated selling or renting his condo toward the goal of simplifying his assets. He bought it through me back in 2015 after selling a larger home. I kept in touch with him over the last nine years. And in 2022 and 2023, we engaged in detailed discussions, exploring various options and assessing the market conditions. Despite my client’s desire to get his condo sold, challenges loomed large, especially regarding the logistics of clearing out his 3,000 square-foot home packed with personal belongings from the all the cabinets to the car in the garage, which he also wanted to sell. I began researching estate sale partners in 2023.
Okay, Let’s Do It.
The turning point came in January 2024, as my client made the bold decision to proceed with selling. However, there was a catch – he had not been at the condo for months and would not be returning to Connecticut. I would have to assume full responsibility for preparing the house for sale without the homeowner’s presence. Thus began a meticulous orchestration of tasks, from securing access to the property to interviewing vendors, coordinating estate sales, repairs, cleaning, and staging services.
Home Prep
Navigating condominium regulations and logistical hurdles, I curated a team of professionals to streamline the process. From sorting through belongings to orchestrating online auctions, every detail was meticulously managed. All items had to be removed from the property and sold off-site. Repairs were swiftly addressed (including replacement of 39 recessed light bulbs!), the home was deep cleaned, and the professional staging was implemented. Finally, the photographer came in to capture the beautiful results in high quality digital format. Our goal remained clear – to present the property in its best light and maximize its reach and appeal to potential buyers. This was the strategy for obtaining the maximum sale price and best terms in the least amount of time for my client.
Market Prep & Listing Launch
With the stage set, it was time to unveil the condo to the market. Leveraging strategic marketing tactics, including multi-channel distribution of tantalizing sneak-peekphotos, a detailed agent walkthrough video, letters to the neighborhood, and a custom website with a comprehensive gallery of extra photos, anticipation reached a fever pitch. A flurry of showings and open houses ensued, culminating in the receipt of multiple offers within days.
Offer Accepted!
Amidst the whirlwind of activity, one offer emerged as the clear frontrunner, signaling the culmination of months of planning and execution. With inspections completed, contracts signed, and the condominium resale package reviewed, both buyer and seller looked forward to the next chapter of their lives, brimming with excitement and anticipation.
Conclusion:
In the dynamic realm of real estate, success is not merely measured by quick sales and high offers. It is forged through meticulous planning, unwavering dedication, effective communication, and a deep understanding of client priorities and the market landscape. As a Realtor committed to exceeding expectations, I stand ready to guide you through your own real estate journey, working to ensure a seamless and rewarding experience every step of the way. When you’re ready to make your move, entrust your dreams to a Realtor who goes above and beyond.
Result:
5 days. 3 offers. Sold 103% of Ask. List price was $1,525,000. Sale price was $1,565,000.
Linda Raymond Real Estate Blog, Fairfield, Westport & More 