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# Fairfield County Realtor

Who You Hire Truly Matters

## Sitemaps

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## Posts

- [FairCo. Knowledge Base](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/blog/)
- [The #1 Regret Sellers Have When They Don't Use an Agent!](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/the-1-regret-sellers-have-when-they-dont-use-an-agent/) - Today, the biggest risk of selling without an agent isn't the paperwork or the hassle. It's the price. And once pricing goes wrong, it's hard to course correct.
- [Thinking About Selling Your House As-Is?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/thinking-about-selling-your-house-as-is/) - If you are thinking about selling your house this year, you may be torn between two options: Do you sell it as-is and make it easier on yourself? No repairs. No effort. Or do you fix it up a bit first - so it shows well and sells for as much as possible? In 2026,
- [How to Prepare for Your Move](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/how-to-prepare-for-your-move/) - Momentum is building in the housing market. If you are thinking or planning to buy in 2026, be prepared. Get pre-approved, look at your expenses, and define what you have to have and what you don't.
- [Turning a House Into a Home:  The Benefits You Can Actually Feel](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/turning-a-house-into-a-home-the-benefits-you-can-actually-feel/) - Buying a home isn't only about dollars and data points - it's about building a life you love. So, if you are thinking about a move in 2026, keep the emotional side in the conversation too.
- [Reasons to be Optimistic About the 2026 Housing Market](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/reasons-to-be-optimistic-about-the-2026-housing-market/) - If a move is on your radar for 2026, there's a lot more working in your favor than there has been in a while. After a stretch where many people felt stuck, 2026 is shaping up to be a year with more balance, more optionsm and more clarity for people who want to make a
- [Headlines Have You Worried about Your Home's Value?  Read This!](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/headlines-have-you-worried-about-your-homes-value-read-this/) - Home prices are not falling nationally. The vast majority of the country is actually seeing prices rise. Gains are not as big as they have been in recent years, but that's okay. Prices are still growing.
- [Is January the Best Time to Buy a Home?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/is-january-the-best-time-to-buy-a-home/) - Buying in January gives you less competition, potentially lower prices and more motivated sellers. Those are three perks you are not going to see if you wait until spring.
- [How to Stretch Your Options, Not Your Budget](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/how-to-stretch-your-options-not-your-budget/) - If you're ready to find a home that fits both your budget and your life, that's where a trusted agent can be a game changer. I will help you spot the opportunities, walk you through what features you shouldn't budge on and determine which ones you can add later when the time is right.
- [Why Selling Your House this Winter Gives You an Edge](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/why-selling-your-house-this-winter-gives-you-an-edge/) - Winter might not get the same buzz as spring, but that's exactly why it works in your favor. Less competition from other sellers, more motivated buyers, and a chance for your house to stand out.
- [Why so Many People are Thankful they Bought a Home This Year](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/why-so-many-people-are-thankful-they-bought-a-home-this-year/) - Homebuyers are weighing their options right now, and they certainly have a lot on their minds. With everything going on in the job market, the economy, and more - there's a lot to think about these days. And maybe that's making you wonder if it really makes sense to buy a home right now. But
- [Easy Ways to Winterize Your House](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/easy-ways-to-winterize-your-house/) - Winterizing your home isn't a complicated process. With a few affrdable products and a little effort, you can button your home up and ensure that it's going to be comfortable.
- [How to Find the Best Deal Possible on a Home Right Now](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/how-to-find-the-best-deal-possible-on-a-home-right-now/) - If you want to find the best deal possible on a home right now, start by looking where others aren't. With 1 in 5 sellers cutting prices , the homes that have been sitting a little longer could be your best opportunity to save.
- [Most Experts Are Not Worried About a Recession](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/most-experts-are-not-worried-about-a-recession/) - Most Americans think a recession is coming. But most experts don't. So, you don't have to put your moving plans on hold. If your finances are solid, your job is stable, and you have a real need to move, you can still make it happen.
- [4 Reasons Your House Is High on Every Buyer's Wish List This Season](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/4-reasons-your-house-is-high-on-every-buyers-wish-list-this-season/) - There are plenty of good reasons to put (or keep) your house on the market during this time of year. If you want to talk strategy for how to make the most of this season in our market, let's connect.
- [Top 2 Things Homeowners Need To Know Before Selling](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/top-2-things-homeowners-need-to-know-before-selling/) - If you're thinking about selling, don't let the market discourage you , let it guide you. In today's market, success isn't about waiting for conditions to change. It's about getting your expectations right from day one.
- [Would You Let $80 a Month Hold You Back from Buying a Home?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/would-you-let-80-a-month-hold-you-back-from-buying-a-home/) - You don't have to wait for 5.99%. You have the chance to move (and save) right now. So, ask yourself: Would you let $80 hold you back from buying a home?
- [Why Your Home Equity Still Puts You Way Ahead](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/why-your-home-equity-still-puts-you-way-ahead/) - Even with prices coming down in some markets, today's homeowners are still sitting on near record amounts of equity.
- [How Treasury Bonds Affect Mortgage Rates](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/how-treasury-bonds-affect-mortgage-rates/) - What is usually a "wait and see" what the Federal Reserve System declares can take a while. A more immediate method is to track the 10 year Treasury yield which is updated constantly. When the 10 year yield rises, mortgage rates typically rise, making borrowing more expensive for buyers and decreasing demand.
- [Fall Garden & Yard Cleanup](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/fall-garden-yard-cleanup/) - When it comes to fall cleanup, the work can add up. Some cleanup chores are more important than others to keep your yard and gardens looking fantastic.
- [Why Some Homes Sell Quickly - and Others Don't Sell at All](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/why-some-homes-sell-quickly-and-others-dont-sell-at-all/) - A few years ago, inventory hit a record low. Just about anything sold - and fast. But now, there are far more homes on the market. Listings are up almost 20% from this time last year. And in some areas, supply is even back to levels we last saw in 2017-2019. For sellers, that means
- [Planning to Sell in 2026?  Start the Prep Now](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/planning-to-sell-in-2026-start-the-prep-now/) - If your plan is to sell in 2026, it's time to get serious. Taking some time to prep means you will hit the market confident, ready, and ahead of other sellers who waited until January to get started.
- [Is the Housing Market Going to Crash?  Here's What Experts Say](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/is-the-housing-market-going-to-crash-heres-what-experts-say/) - If you have been waiting to buy or sell because you are worried about a crash, it's time to look at the data - not the headlines.
- [The $280 Shift in Affordability Every Homebuyer Should Know](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/the-280-shift-in-affordability-every-homebuyer-should-know/) - Affordability is improving in many markets. And that resets the math on your move. This is the time to start looking again.
- [Why Experts Say Mortgage Rates Should Ease Over the Next Year](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/why-experts-say-mortgage-rates-should-ease-over-the-next-year/) - Keeping up with all of these shifts can feel overwhelming. That's why having an experienced agent or lender on your side matters. I will give you real-time updates on mortgage rates.
- [What Buyers Say They Need Most (and how the market's responding)](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/what-buyers-say-they-need-most-and-how-the-markets-responding/) - Both of the top concerns for buyers are seeing some improvement. Prices are moderating. Rates are easing. And both trends could stick around going into 2026.
- [Closing Costs Unpacked:  State-by-State Breakdowns for Today's Buyers](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/closing-costs-unpacked-state-by-state-breakdowns-for-todays-buyers/) - If you are planning to buy a home this year, there's one expense you can't afford to overlook: CLOSING COSTS! Almost every buyer knows they exist, but not that many know exactly what they cover, or how different they can be based on where you are buying. So, let's break them down. What Are Closing
- [How to Dispose of Invasive Plants](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/how-to-dispose-of-invasive-plants/) - Invasive plants will take over the naturalized landscape. It is important to remove and discard all invasive plants and shrubs.
- [Why Now May Be a Key 2025 Moment to Sell Your House](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/why-now-may-be-a-key-2025-moment-to-sell-your-house/) - Buyers are watching rates, weighing their options, and starting to get off the sidelines. If you are thinking about selling, this may be your chance to get ahead.
- [Do You Know How Much Your House is Really Worth?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/do-you-know-how-much-your-house-is-really-worth/) - Chances are, your house is worth quite a bit right now. If you are curious about the value of your home, give me a call. I will run the numbers and give you a professional equity assessment report, so you know what you are working with and where you can go from here.
- [What a Fed Rate Cut Could  Mean for Mortgage Rates](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/what-a-fed-rate-cut-could-mean-for-mortgage-rates/) - Mortgage rates likely won't drop sharply overnight. If the Fed begins a rate-cutting cycle, and markets continue to expect it, mortgage rates could trend lower later this year and into 2026.
- [Things To Do In Connecticut this October](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/things-to-do-in-connecticut-this-october/) - Take advantage of the many activities in Connecticut this fall.
- [Why 50% of Homes Are Selling for Under Asking and How To Avoid It](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/why-50-of-homes-are-selling-for-under-asking-and-how-to-avoid-it/) - If your selling strategy still assumes you will get multiple offers over asking, it's officially time for a reset. That frenzied seller's market is behind us. And here are the numbers to prove it. From Frenzy to "Normal" Right now, about 50% of homes on the market are selling for less than their asking price
- [What Mortgage Delinquencies Tell Us About the Future of Foreclosures](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/what-mortgage-delinquencies-tell-us-about-the-future-of-foreclosures/) - You may be seeing headlines about how foreclosures are rising. And if that makes you nervous that we're headed for another crash, here's what you should know. According to ATTOM, during the housing crash, over nine million people went through some sort of distressed sale (2007-2011). Last year, there were just over 300,000. So, even
- [History Shows the Housing Market Always Recovers](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/history-shows-the-housing-market-always-recovers/) - If today's housing market feels stuck, remember it's never stayed down for good. Slowdowns end, activity returns, and people get moving again.
- [What Everyone's Getting Wrong About the Rise in New Home Inventory](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/what-everyones-getting-wrong-about-the-rise-in-new-home-inventory/) - Just because there are more new homes for sale right now, it doesn't mean we are headed for a crash. The data shows today's overall inventory situation is different
- [Condos Could Be a Win for Today's Buyers](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/condos-could-be-a-win-for-todays-buyers/) - Not every homebuyer wants the biggest house on the block. Some want something simpler, more affordable, and easier to maintain, especially in a market where every dollar counts. That's where condos come in. For first-time buyers, they can be a smart way to get into homeownership without stretching your budget. For downsizers, they offer less
- [Are These Myths About Buying a Newly Built Home Holding You Back?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/are-these-myths-about-buying-a-newly-built-home-holding-you-back/) - If you've been skipping over newly built homes in your search, you might be doing so based on outdated assumptions. Let's clear up a few of the most common myths, so you don't miss out on a solid opportunity. Myth 1: New Homes Are More Expensive It's easy to assume a new build will cost
- [More Contracts Are Falling Through.  Here's How to Get Ahead.](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/more-contracts-are-falling-through-heres-how-to-get-ahead/) - When you sell a house, the last thing you want is for the deal to fall apart right before closing. But according to the latest data from Redfin, that's happening a bit more often lately. The good news is, it's completely avoidable if you lean on an agent for insight into why that is and
- [Is It Better to Buy Now or Wait for Lower Mortgage Rates?  Here's the Tradeoff](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/is-it-better-to-buy-now-or-wait-for-lower-mortgage-rates-heres-the-tradeoff/) - Mortgage Rates Mortgage rates are still a hot topic - and for good reason. After the most recent jobs report came out weaker than expected, the bond market reacted almost instantly. And, as a result, in early August mortgage rates dropped to their lowest point so far this year (6.55%). While that may not sound
- [Online Home-Buying Search Terms Recently Hit 2 Year High](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/online-home-buying-search-terms-recently-hit-2-year-high/) - Believe it or not, there are clear signs buyer interest is heating up again. Let's talk about what's really going on behind the scenes, and why the housing market might not be as quiet out there as it seems. Buyers Are Looking, and Search Trends Prove It One of the clearest ways to measure what
- [Why Selling Without an Agent Can Cost You More Than You Think](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/why-selling-without-an-agent-can-cost-you-more-than-you-think/) - Cutting out the agent might seem like a smart way to save when you sell your house. But here'sthe hard truth. Last year, homes that sold with an agent went for almost 15% more than those that sold without one. That gap is pretty hard to ignore. And with more homes on the market to
- [What Credit Score Do You Really Need to Buy a Home?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/what-credit-score-do-you-really-need-to-buy-a-home/) - According to Fannie Mae, 90% of buyers don't actually know what credit score lenders are looking for, or they overestimate the minimum needed. That means most homebuyers think they need better credit than they actually do. That could make you think buying a home is out of reach for you right now, even if that's
- [The 3 Things You Risk by Pricing Too High](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/the-3-things-you-risk-by-pricing-too-high/) - When selling your house, the price you choose isn't just a number, it's a strategy. And in today's market, that strategy needs to be sharp. The number of homes for sale is climbing. And that means buyers have more choices and can be more selective. If your price doesn't line up with what else is
- [Today's Tale of Two Housing Markets](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/todays-tale-of-two-housing-markets/) - Depending on where you live, the housing market could feel red-hot or strangely quiet right now. The truth is, local markets are starting to move in different directions. In some places, buyers are calling the shots, sellers still hold the power. It's a tale of two markets. What's a Buyer's Market vs. a Seller's Market?
- [Advice First-Time Homebuyers Need to Hear](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/advice-first-time-homebuyers-need-to-hear/) - Buying your first home is a big milestone - and the right support is going to make it a whole lot easier. Because while this process might be brand new to you, its not new to me. I have helped plenty of first-time buyers through it. I know what works, what actually matters, and how
- [Why a Newly Built Home Might be the Move Right Now](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/why-a-newly-built-home-might-be-the-move-right-now/) - Are you looking for better home prices, or even a lower mortgage rate? You might find both in one place: a newly built home. While many buyers are overlooking new construction, it could be your best opportunity in today's market. Here's why. There are more brand-new homes available right now than there were even just
- [Three Ways to Pay for a Home If a Traditional Mortgage Isn't on the Table](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/three-ways-to-pay-for-a-home-if-a-traditional-mortgage-isnt-on-the-table/) - Cash isn't the only option if you don't want or can't qualify for a regular home loan. If you are shopping for a luxury home, what can you do if you are self-employed or highly leveraged and won't qualify for, or don't want, a traditional mortgage? Many buyers simply pay cash for their homes. According
- [The Truth About Where Home Prices Are Heading](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/the-truth-about-where-home-prices-are-heading/) - There are plenty of headlines these days calling for a housing market crash. But the truth is, they are not telling the full story. Here's what's actually happening, and what the experts project for home prices over the next 5 years. It's not a crash! Yes, in some local markets, prices are flattening or even
- [Ten Questions to Ask your Lender](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/ten-questions-to-ask-your-lender/) - The following represents questions you need to ask your lender when purchasing a home. What is the interest rate on this mortgage? To effectively compare different lenders' programs, ask for the annual percentage rate (APR) of the mortgage interest. It is generally higher than the initial quoted rate because if includes some fees. How many
- [What You Should Know About Getting a Mortgage Today](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/what-you-should-know-about-getting-a-mortgage-today/) - If you've been putting off buying a home because you thought getting approved wouldbe too hard, know this: qualifying for a mortgage is starting to get a bit more achievable, but lending standardss are still strong. Lenders are makingit slightly easier for well-qualified buyers to access financing, which is opening more doors for people ready
- [Why Big Investors Aren't a Challenge for Today's Homebuyer](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/why-big-investors-arent-a-challenge-for-todays-homebuyer/) - Remember the chatter in the headlines about all the homes big institutional investors were buying? If you were thinking about buying a home yourself, you may have wondered how you'd ever be able to compete with that. Here's the thing. That's not the challenge so many people think it is - especially right now. Let's
- [What Every Homeowner Needs to Know in Today's Shifting Market](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/what-every-homeowner-needs-to-know-in-todays-shifting-market/) - Here's something you need to know. The housing market is getting back to a healthier, more normal place. And even though it may not sound like it, this shift is actually a good thing. It's what you should expect. It's just that our expectations have been skewed by the intense seller's market over the past
- [3 Reasons to Buy a Home This Summer](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/3-reasons-to-buy-a-home-this-summer/) - Are you thinking about buying a home, but not sure if now is the right time? A lot of people are waiting and wondering what the market's going to do next. But here is something only the savviest buyers realize. This summer might actually be the best time to buy in years. Here are three
- [Why More Sellers Are Choosing to Move, Even with Today's Rates](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/why-more-sellers-are-choosing-to-move-even-with-todays-rates/) - It's hard to let go of a 3% mortgage rate. There's no question about it. It's the main reason why so many homeowners have delayed their move in recent years. But here's something to consider. While your low rate might be ideal, it doesn't make up being too cramped, having a staircase your knees can't
- [Your House Didn't Sell.  Here's What To Do Now.](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/your-house-didnt-sell-heres-what-to-do-now/) - When your house doesn't sell, it doesn't just feel frustrating - it feels personal. You put time, money, and emotional energy into this move. You told your friends and family it was happening. And now that your listing has expired without a buyer? You're left feeling stuck and maybe even a little embarrassed. And here's
- [The Five-Year Rule for Home Price Perspective](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/the-five-year-rule-for-home-price-perspective/) - Headlines are saying home prices are starting to dip in some markets. And if you are beginning to second guess your plans based on what you are hearing in the media, here's what you need to know. It's true that a few metros are seeing slight price drops. But don't let that overshadow this simple
- [Buying Your First Home?  FHA Loans Can Help](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/buying-your-first-home-fha-loans-can-help/) - If you're a first-time homebuyer, you might feel like the odds are stacked against you in today's market. But there are resources and programs out there that can help - if you know where to look. And one thing that can make homeownership easier to achieve? An FHA home loan. They are designed to help
- [Understanding Today's Mortgage Rates:  Is 3% Coming Back?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/understanding-todays-mortgage-rates-is-3-coming-back/) - A lot of buyers are pressing pause on their plans these days, holding out hope that mortgage rates will come down - maybe even back to the historic-low 3% from a few years ago. But here's the thing: those rates were never meant to last. They were a short-term response to a very specific moment
- [The Rooms That Matter Most When You Sell](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/the-rooms-that-matter-most-when-you-sell/) - Now that buyers have more options for their move, you need to be a bit more intentional about making sure your house looks its best when you sell. And proper staging can be a great way to do just that. What Is Home Staging? It's not about making your home look super trendy or like
- [Why Buying Real Estate is Still the Best Long-Term Investment](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/why-buying-real-estate-is-still-the-best-long-term-investment/) - Lately, it feels like every headline about the housing market comes with a side of doubt. Are prices going up or down? Are we headed for a crash? Will rates ever come down? And all the media noise may leave you wondering does it really make sense to buy a home right now? But here's
- [The Secret to Selling Your House in Today's Market](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/the-secret-to-selling-your-house-in-todays-market/) - A few years ago, homes were flying off the shelves and getting multiple offers well over their asksing price. It felt like you could name your price and still have buyers lined up at the door. But today's housing market is different. Buyers are getting more selective now that inventory has grown. Homes are sitting
- [Thinking about an Adjustable-Rate Mortgage?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/thinking-about-an-adjustable-rate-mortgage/) - READ THIS FIRST!!! If you have been house hunting lately, you've probably felt the sting of today's mortgage rates. And it's because of those rates and rising home prices that many homebuyers are starting to explore other types of loans to make the numbers work. And one option that's gaining popularity is an adjustable-rate mortgage.
- [Top Alternatives to Chemically Crafted Lawns](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/top-alternatives-to-chemically-crafted-lawns/) - Here is a list of non-chemical lawns and their benefits. Eco-Friendly Ground Covers Clover: Needs less mowing and watering, enriches soil naturally, and attracts pollinators. Creeping Thyme: Low-growing, drought-tolerant, and can handle foot traffic Moss: Thrives in shade, requires no mowing, and minimal maintenance Creeping Jenny and Corsican Mint: Add color and texture, low maintenance,
- [Guide to Planting Your Summer Vegetables](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/guide-to-planting-your-summer-vegetables/) - Vegetable plants are expensive. To get the best growth, you need to pay attention to more than just the soil, sun, and watering. You need to get your plants off on the right foot by planting them the right way. Prepare the soil The soil you are planting into has to be pliable enough that
- [What Buyers Need to Know About Homeowners Association Fees](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/what-buyers-need-to-know-about-homeowners-association-fees/) - When buying a home, you are probably thinking about mortgage rates, home prices, your down payment, and maybe even your closing costs. But you may not be thinking about homeowners association (HOA) fees. While you won't necessarily have these, you should know it's a possibility, depending on where you decide to live. A homeowners association
- [Home Projects That Boost Value](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/home-projects-that-boost-value/) - Whether you are planning to move soon or not, it's smart to be strategic about which home projects you take on. Your time, energy, and money matter. Not all upgrades offer the payoff you might expect. As U.S. News Real Estate explains: "...not every home renovation project will increase the resale value of a home.
- [Why Some Homes Sell Faster than Others](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/why-some-homes-sell-faster-than-others/) - As you think ahead to your own move, you may have noticed some houses sell within days, while others linger. But why is that? As Redfin says: "....today's housing market has been topsy-turvy since the pandemic. Low inventory (though rising) and high prices have created a strange mix. Some homes are flying off the market,
- [Stocks May Be Volatile, but Home Values Aren't](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/stocks-may-be-volatile-but-home-values-arent/) - With all the uncertainty in the economy, the stock market has been bouncing around more than usual. And if you have been watching your 401(k) or investments lately, chances are you have felt that pit in your stomach. One day it's up, The next day, it's not. And that may make you feel a little
- [A Tale of Two Housing Markets](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/a-tale-of-two-housing-markets/) - For a long time, the housing market was all sunshine for sellers. Homes were flying off the shelves, and buyers had to compete like crazy. But lately, things are starting to shift. Some areas are still super competitive for buyers, while others are seeing more homes sit on the market, giving buyers a bit more
- [Household Hazardous Waste May 10](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/household-hazardous-waste-event/) - Hazardous Waste - May 10, 2025 Municipalities include: Bridgewater, Bethel, Brookfield, Danbuy, Kent, New Fairfield, New Milford, Newtown, Redding, Ridgefield, Roxbury, Sherman, Weston and Wilton. Location: Public Works Facility - 4 Turkey Hill Road, Newtown Time: 9 am - 2 pm What to Bring: Paints - stains, varnishes, paint thinners and strippers Wood Preservatives Resins,
- [Paused Your Moving Plans?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/paused-your-moving-plans/) - Here's Why It's Time to Hit Play Again!! It's not really a surprise that 70% of buyers paused their home search last year. Maybe you were one of them. And if so, no judgement. Conditions just weren't great. Inventory was too low, prices were too high, and mortgage rates were bouncing all over. That made
- [4 Ways to Make an Offer that Stands Out This Spring](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/4-ways-to-make-an-offer-that-stands-out-this-spring/) - Now that spring is here, more and more buyers are jumping back into the market, and competition is heating up. If you are serious about landing a home you will love, you need more than just a wish list. You need a smart strategy - and that starts with working with a great agent who
- [Are You Saving Up To Buy a Home?  Your Tax Return Can Help](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/are-you-saving-up-to-buy-a-home-your-tax-return-can-help/) - You've been working on your savings and dreaming of that moment when you finally have keys to a place that's truly yours. What you might not realize is that your tax return could give you a little extra cash to help you get there sooner. So if you're getting a tax refund this year, you
- [Why You Don't Want to Skip Your Home Inspection](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/why-you-dont-want-to-skip-your-home-inspection/) - Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you will ever make. And no matter how perfect that house seems, skipping a home inspection is a risk that could cost you a lot more than just time. What Exactly is a Home Inspection? A home inspection gives you a detailed look at the
- [Townhomes:  A Smart Solution for Today's First-Time Buyers](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/townhomes-a-smart-solution-for-todays-first-time-buyers/) - Buying your first home in today's market can feel tough. Between high home prices and mortgage rates, affordability is still a big challenge. Some buyers are making one simple trade-off that's getting them in the door faster: square footage. According to the National Association of Home Buildders, 35% of buyers are willing to purchase something
- [4 Things To Expect from the Spring Housing Market](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/4-things-to-expect-from-the-spring-housing-market/) - Spring is in full swing, and the housing market is picking up along with it. And if you've been wondering whether now is the right time to buy or sell, here's the inside scoop on why this spring may be a great time to make your move. 1. There Are More Homes for Sale After
- [What You Need to Know About Homeowner's Insurance](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/what-you-need-to-know-about-homeowners-insurance/) - Homeowner's insurance is a must-have to protect what's probably your biggest investment - your home. And while you never want to think about worst case scenarios, the right coverage is basically your safety net if something goes wrong. Here's how it helps you: Covers Repairs and Rebuilding Costs: If your home is damaged by fire,
- [Is It Time To Put Your House Back on the Market?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/is-it-time-to-put-your-house-back-on-the-market/) - If you took your house off the market in late 2024, you're not the only one. Newsweek reports that data from CoreLogic and the Wall Street Journal says nearly 73,000 homes were pulled from the market in December alone. That's more than any other December going all the way back to 2017. Whether it was
- [Rising Inventory Means This Spring Could Be Your Moment](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/rising-inventory-means-this-spring-could-be-your-moment/) - Want to know two reasons this spring might finally be your time to buy? Inventory has grown and sellers may be more willing to negotiate as a result. That means you've got more options and more power than buyers have had in years. Let's break it down. 1. You Have More Homes to Choose From
- [Is the Housing Market Starting to Balance Out?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/is-the-housing-market-starting-to-balance-out/) - For years, sellers have had the upper hand in the housing market. With so few homes for sale and so many people who wanted to purchase them, buyers faced tough competition just to get an offer accepted. But now, inventory is rising, and things are starting to shift in many areas. So, is the market
- [Should I Buy a Home Right Now?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/should-i-buy-a-home-right-now/) - At one point or another, you have probably heard someone say, "Yesterday was the best time to buy a home, but the next best time is today!" That's because nationally, home values continue to rise. And with mortgage rates still stubbornly high and home prices going up, you may be holding out for prices to
- [Why a Pre-Listing Inspection May Be Worth it in Today's Market](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/why-a-pre-listing-inspection-may-be-worth-it-in-todays-market/) - Selling a house comes with a lot of moving pieces, and the last thing you want is a deal falling apart over unexpected repairs uncovered during the buyer's inspection. That's why it pays to anticipate issues before buyers ever step through the door. And one whay to do that is with a pre-listing inspection. What
- [Is a Newly Built Home Right for You?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/is-a-newly-built-home-right-for-you/) - Pros and Cons When searching for a home, you don't want to skip over new builds as an option. Right now, there are more newly built homes to choose from than there would normally be in the market. And those added choices come with some pretty incredible benefits. Here's a quick rundown of some things
- [Gardening Tasks to Tackle in March](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/gardening-tasks-to-tackle-in-march/) - It's time to clean, test, prune, and plant your garden. Here are a few gardening tasks to tackle in March. Clean up water features like ponds and bubblers. They might have algae or too much nitrogen from leaves. Empty bird boxes. Do a deep clean of all bird feeders. Divide tubers and plan your bulbs.
- [Do You Know How Much Your Home is Worth?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/do-you-know-how-much-your-home-is-worth/) - Over the past few years, you have probably seen a whole lot of headlines about how home prices keep going up. But have you ever stopped to think about what that actually means for your home? Home prices have risen dramatically over the past five years - far more than usual. And if selling has
- [How to Buy a Home Without Waiting for Lower Rates](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/how-to-buy-a-home-without-waiting-for-lower-rates/) - Many people are hoping mortgage rates will come down before they buy a home. But will that actually happen? According to the latest forecasts, experts say rates will decline, but not by as much as a lot of people want. The good news? Even if they don't drop substantially, there are stll ways to make
- [Is an Accessory Dwelling Unit Right for You?  Here's What to Know](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/is-an-accessory-dwelling-unit-right-for-you-heres-what-to-know/) - Are you having a hard time finding the right home in your budget? Or maybe you already own a home but could use some extra income or a designated space for aging loved ones. Either way, accessory dwelling units (ADUs) could be the smart solution you have been looking for in today's market. What Is
- [Cut Down on Mowing With a Clover Lawn](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/cut-down-on-mowing-with-a-clover-lawn/) - Mow less and benefit wildlife with a clover lawn! Learn the basics about this increasingly popular and polllinator friendly lawn option. Imagine taking a step in your bare feet into a backyard brimming with pillowy clover. You can make this a reality. There's keen interest in replacing turf grass with a clover lawn. One can
- [Buying a Home May Help Shield You From Inflation](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/buying-a-home-may-help-shield-you-from-inflation/) - It feels like everything is getting more expensive these days. That's because inflation has remained higher than normal for longer than expected - and that's impacting the costs of goods, services, and more. And with rising costs all around you, you are probably questioning: is now really the right time to buy a home? Here's
- [The Real Benefits of Buying a Home this Year](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/the-real-benefits-of-buying-a-home-this-year/) - Have you been wondering whether you should keep renting or finally make the leap into homeownership? It's a big decision. Renting can feel like the easier option, especially if buying a home feels out of reach. But, here's the thing: a recent report from Bank of America highlights that 70% of prospective buyers fear the
- [3 Reasons To Buy a Home Before Spring](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/3-reasons-to-buy-a-home-before-spring/) - Let's face it - buying a home can feel like a challenge with today's mortgage rates. You might even be thinking, "Should I just wait until spring when more homes hit the market and rates might be lower?" But here's the thing, no one knows for sure where mortgage rates will go from here. Waiting
- [Two Resources that can Help You Buy a Home Right NOW](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/two-resources-that-can-help-you-buy-a-home-right-now/) - A recent report from Realtor.com says 20% of Americans don't think homeownership is achievable. Maybe you feel the same way. With inflation driving up day-to-day expenses, saving enough to buy your first home is more of a challenge. But here's the thing. With the right resources and help, you can still make it happen! There
- [Smaller Homes, Bigger Opportunities:  The Homebuilder Trend Buyers Love](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/smaller-homes-bigger-opportunities-the-homebuilder-trend-buyers-love/) - It's no secret that affordability is tough with where mortgage rates and home prices are right now. And that may have you worried about how you'll be able to buy a home. But, if you don't need a ton of space, you may find you have more cost-effective options in an unexpected place: new home
- [Why More People Are Buying Multi-Generational Homes Today](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/why-more-people-are-buying-multi-generational-homes-today/) - Today, 17% of homebuyers are choosing multi-generational homes. When you buy a house with your parents, adult children, or even distant relatives, that's multi-generational. What makes that noteworthy is that 17% is actually the highest level ever recorded by the National Association of Realtors. But what's driving the recent rise in multi-generational living? Top Benefits
- [One Homebuying Step You Don't Want To Skip:  Pre-Approval](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/one-homebuying-step-you-dont-want-to-skip-pre-approval/) - There's one essential step in the homebuying process you may not know a whole lot about. That's pre-approval. Here's a rundown of what it is and why it's so important right now. What is Pre-Approval? Pre-approval is like getting a green light from a lender. It let's you know how much they are willing to
- [How Much Home Equity Have You Gained?  The Answer Might Surprise You](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/how-much-home-equity-have-you-gained-the-answer-might-surprise-you/) - (opens in a new tab)Publish Have you ever stopped to think about how much wealth you've built up just from being a homeowner? As home values rise, so does your net worth. And, if you've been in your house for a few years (or longer), there's a good chance you're sitting on a pile of
- [The Truth About Credit Scores and Buying a Home](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/the-truth-about-credit-scores-and-buying-a-home/) - Your credit score plays a big role in the homebuying process. It's one of the key factors lenders look at to determine which loan options you qualify for and what your terms might be. But there's a myth about credit scores that may be holding some buyers back. The Myth: You Need to Have a
- [What to Save for When Buying a Home](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/what-to-save-for-when-buying-a-home/) - Knowing what to budget for when buying a home may feel intimidating. It doesn't have to be. By understanding the costs you may encounter upfront, you can take control of the process. Here are just a few things experts say you should be thinking about as you plan ahead. 1. Down Payment Saving for your
- [Simple Steps to Help You SAVE for Your First Home](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/simple-steps-to-help-you-save-for-your-first-home/) - Turning a dream into reality starts with one thing: a plan. And if buying your first home is on your list of goals, now is the perfect time to put a plan in motion to help you save. Reaching your savings goal doesn't mean making huge sacrifices overnight. Small, consistent steps can get you there
- [New Year, New Home:  How to Make it Happen in 2025](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/new-year-new-home-how-to-make-it-happen-in-2025/) - This is the time when many people take a moment to reflect and set their goals for this year. One thing that may pop into your mind is the vision of a new home. But how do you get there? And where do you start? Here is some advice that can help you get the
- [More Homes, Slower Price Growth - What it Means for You as a Buyer](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/more-homes-slower-price-growth-what-it-means-for-you-as-a-buyer-2/) - There are more homes on the market right now than there have been in years. That could be a game changer for you if you are ready to buy. Let's look at two reasons why. You Have More Options to Choose From An article from Realtor.com helps explain how much the number of homes for
- [Struggling to Sell Your House?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/struggling-to-sell-your-house/) - When you sell your house, ideally, you want it to go something like this: your house sells for top dollar, you get it sold quickly, and it all goes down without a hitch. But what many people don't realize is that even in today;s market where there are more buyers than homes for sale, there
- [How Home Equity May Help You Buy Your Next Home in Cash](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/how-home-equity-may-help-you-buy-your-next-home-in-cash/) - Building equity in your house is one of the biggest financial advantages of home ownership. Right now, homeowner's across the country are sitting on record amounts of it. Here's a look at how that equity could be a game changer for you. It could your perspective from "Why would I move right now?" to "Why
- [More Starter Homes are Hitting the Market](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/more-starter-homes-are-hitting-the-market/) - More entry-level homes - also known as starter homes - are popping up on the market. And after several years with very few homes available to buy and prices rising, there are finally some more options for first-time buyers. Inventory is Increasing - Especially at Lower Price Points Over the past year, the total supply
- [The Biggest Perks of Buying a Home This Winter](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/the-biggest-perks-of-buying-a-home-this-winter/) - Waiting for perfect market conditions often means missing out. Because what you may not realize is, if you are ready and able to buy, this time of year could actually give you an edge. Here's why. As the weather cools down, the housing market can too. That works in your favor. You likely won't feel
- [Only an Expert Agent Can Give You an Accurate Value of Your Home](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/only-an-expert-agent-can-give-you-an-accurate-value-of-your-home/) - In today's digital age, it's tempting to rely on automated tools for everything. That includes figuring out how much your house is worth. But be careful. The automated estimates you are seeing online often miss key details that affect the true market value of your home. Before you toss a for sale sign in your
- [Top 2 Reasons To Look At Newly Built Homes](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/top-2-reasons-to-look-at-newly-built-homes/) - When planning a move, a newly built home might not be the first thing that comes to mind. But with more brand-new homes on the market and builders focusing on smaller, more affordable options, this type of home may just be the key to crossing the homebuying finish line. 1. More Newly Built Homes are
- [Using Your Dishwasher More Could Actually Save You Water](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/using-your-dishwasher-more-could-actually-save-you-water/) - Your dishwasher isn't just a convenience. It's also a money-saving machine. The rising cost of water throughout the U.S. has many of us thinking about conservation. Dishwashing is a good place to start. As a daily chore, dishwashing can use up a lot of water. The myth of dishwasher waste Pre-1994 dishwashers weren't subject to
- [Why More Sellers Are Hiring Real Estate Agents](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/why-more-sellers-are-hiring-real-estate-agents/) - Putting your house for sale on your own ("For Sale by Owner") might be on your mind. But you should know that it gets complicated very quickly, especially in today's complex market. That's why data from the National Association of Realtors shows a record low number are going the route of selling on their own.
- [Home Buyers' Best Deals Are on Builders' Lots](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/home-buyers-best-deals-are-on-builders-lots/) - The premium that buyers usually have to pay for a brand new house is disappearing. A low supply of homes for sale is fueling the strange price dynamics between new and older properties. Benefits of a newly built house A newly built house normally costs more than an old one, but the higher upfront cost
- [Why Owning a Home is Worth it in the Long Run](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/why-owning-a-home-is-worth-it-in-the-long-run/) - Today's mortgage rates and home prices may have you second guessing whether it's still a good idea to buy a home right now. While market factors are definitely important, there's also a bigger picture to consider: the long-term benefits of homeownership. Think of it this way. If you know people who bought a home 5,
- [Sell Your House During the Winter Sweet Spot](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/sell-your-house-during-the-winter-sweet-spot/) - A lot people assume spring is the ideal time to sell a house. And sure, buyer demand usually picks up at that time of year. But here's the catch; so does your competition because a lot of people put their homes on the market at the same time. So, what's the real advantage of selling
- [Should You Sell Your House As-Is or Make Repairs?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/should-you-sell-your-house-as-is-or-make-repairs/) - A recent study from the National Association of Realtors shows most sellers (61%) completed at least minor repairs when selling their house. But sometimes life gets in the way and that's just not possible. Maybe that's why 39% of sellers chose to sell as-is instead. If you're feeling stressed because you don't have the time,
- [What's Motivating Homeowners To Move Right Now](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/whats-motivating-homeowners-to-move-right-now/) - Over the past few years, some homeowners have decided to delay their move. That's because they don't want to sell and take on a higher mortgage rate on their next home. Maybe you are thinking the same thing. And honestly, that's no surprise. It's a very common roadblock and is one of the biggest factors
- [Don't Let These Two Concerns Hold You Back from Selling Your House](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/dont-let-these-two-concerns-hold-you-back-from-selling-your-house/) - If you're debating whether or not you want to sell right now, it might be because you've got some unanswered questions. Does it make sense in today's market to move? Maybe you're wondering if it's even a good idea to move right now. Or you're stressed because you think you won't find a house you
- [More Homes, Slower Price Growth - What it Means for You as a Buyer](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/more-homes-slower-price-growth-what-it-means-for-you-as-a-buyer/) - There are more homes on the market right now than there have been in years. That could be a game changer for you if you are ready to buy. Let's look at the reasons why. You Have More Options To Choose From An article from Realtor.com helps explain just how much the number of homes
- [Should You Sell Your House or Rent It Out?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/should-you-sell-your-house-or-rent-it-out/) - When you're ready to move, figuring out what to do with your house is a big decision. And today, more homeowners are considering renting their home instead of selling it. Recent data from Zillow shows about two-thirds (66%) of sellers thought about renting their home before listing, with nearly a third (28%) taking that possibility
- [The Majority of Veterans are Unaware of a Key VA Loan Benefit](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/the-majority-of-veterans-are-unaware-of-a-key-va-loan-benefit/) - For over 79 years, Veterans Affairs (VA) homeloans have helped countless Veterans achieve the dream of homeownership. But according to Veterans United, only 3 in 10 Veterans realize they may be able to buy a home without needing a down payment. That's why it's so important for Veterans to be aware of this valuable program.
- [What To Look For From This Week's Fed Meeting](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/what-to-look-for-from-this-weeks-fed-meeting/) - You may be hearing a lot of talk about the Federal Reserve and how their actions will impact the housing market right now. Here's why... The Fed meets again this week to decide the next step with the Federal Funds Rate. That's how much it costs banks to borrow from each other. Now, that's not
- [Is a Fixer Upper Right for You?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/is-a-fixer-upper-right-for-you/) - Looking to buy a home but feeling like almost everything is out of reach? Here's the thing. There's still a way to become a homeowner. Even when affordability seems like a huge roadblock it might be a possibility to own a fixer upper. What is a Fixer Upper? A fixer upper is a home that
- [Why Your House Will Shine in Today's Market](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/why-your-house-will-shine-in-todays-market/) - Even though there are more homes available for sale than there were at this time last year, there are still more buyers than there are houses to choose from. If you've got moving on your mind, your house can really stand out. There are several key reasons why there aren't enough homes to go around.
- [How Long Will it Take to Sell Your House?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/how-long-will-it-take-to-sell-your-house/) - As you're getting ready to sell your house, one of the first questions you're probably asking is, "How long is this going to take?" And that makes sense. You want to know what to expect. While every market is different, understanding what's happening nationally can give you a good baseline. But for an even more
- [Why Today's Foreclosure Numbers Won't Trigger a Crash](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/why-todays-foreclosure-numbers-wont-trigger-a-crash/) - With everything feeling more expensive these days, it's natural to worry about how rising costs might impact the housing market. Many people are concerned that high prices and higher budgets could cause more homeowners to fall behind on their mortgage payments. This could lead to a wave of foreclosures. But before you start worrying about
- [Why a Condo Could Be Your Perfect First Home](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/why-a-condo-could-be-your-perfect-first-home/) - If you are looking to break into homeownership but the price of single family homes has you second guessing, you might want to consider a condominium or townhome. These types of homes often come with a lower barrier to entry - and that can help you start to build equity and the benefits of owning
- [How Much Does It Cost To Sell My House?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/how-much-does-it-cost-to-sell-my-house/) - If you're thinking of selling your house, you are probably wondering how much it will cost. The final number will depend on the offer you accept, helping with buyer's closing costs, repairs to tackle, and more. Here's some information on a few of the expenses you will want to be ready for. Here's something that
- [Why Now's Not the Time To Take Your House Off the Market](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/why-nows-not-the-time-to-take-your-house-off-the-market/) - Has your house been sitting on the market longer than expected? If so, you are bound to be frustrated by now. Maybe you are even thinking it's time to pull the listing and wait to see what 2025 brings. But what you may not realize is, the decision to hold off could actually cost you.
- [Home Values Rise Even as Median Prices Fall](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/home-values-rise-even-as-median-prices-fall/) - Recent headlines have been buzzing about the median asking price of homes dropping compared to last year. That has sparked plenty of confusion. And as a buyer or seller, it's easy to assume that means prices are coming down. But here's the catch: those number don't tell the full story. Nationally, home values are actually
- [Now's the Time To Upgrade to Your Dream Home](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/nows-the-time-to-upgrade-to-your-dream-home/) - If you've been wanting to sell your house and move up to a bigger or nicer home, you're not alone. A recent Inman survey reveals the top motivator for today's homebuyers is the desire for more space or an upgraded home. But there's also a good chance you have been holding off on that goal
- [Secrets To Selling Your House Quickly](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/secrets-to-selling-your-house-quickly/) - Seeing your house sit on the market without any bites is the ultimate frustration. And unfortunately, some sellers are in that tricky spot today. According to data from the National Association of Realtors, the average time a house spends on the market has increased over the past few years. A recent post from Realtor.com notes
- [This Is the Sweet Spot Homebuyers Have Been Waiting For](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/this-is-the-sweet-spot-homebuyers-have-been-waiting-for/) - After months of sitting on the sidelines, many homebuyers who were priced out by high mortgage rates and affordability challenges finally have an opportunity to make their move. With rates trending down, today's market is a sweet spot for buyers - and it's one that may not last long. So, if you've put your own
- [The Down Payment Assistance You Didn't Know About](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/the-down-payment-assistance-you-didnt-know-about/) - Believe it or not... Believe it or not, almost 80% of first-time homebuyers qualify for down payment assistance, but only 13% actually use it. This is a mission-critical gap to close if you are hoping to buy a home. Here's what you need to know to make the most of your down payment in today's
- [Why Buying Now May Be Worth It in the Long Run](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/why-buying-now-may-be-worth-it-in-the-long-run/) - Should You Buy a Home Now or Wait? That's a question a lot of people have these days. What's right for you will depend on a lot of different factors. Here's something you will want to consider as you make your decision. As soon as you buy, you'll start gaining equity. And you would be
- [Falling Mortgage Rates Are Bringing Buyers Back](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/falling-mortgage-rates-are-bringing-buyers-back/) - If you've been hesitant to list your house because you're worried no one's buying, here's your sign it may be time to talk with me. After months of high rates keeping buyers on the sidelines, things are starting to shift. Rates are already coming down due to a number of economic factors. And yesterday the
- [Fast Growing Trees for Your Yard](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/fast-growing-trees-for-your-yard/) - Some suggestions for fast growing trees to enhance your landscape. Sweet Bay Magnolia: Lemon-scented flowers, dark green leaves and it's evergreen nature makes this is good specimen plant. It is more tolerant of shade and grows 10 to 20 feet in the north. Crape Myrtle: White, pink, purple or deep red blooms with outstanding fall
- [Shooting Real Estate Exteriors in the Moment](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/shooting-real-estate-photos-in-the-moment/) - When thinking of selling during the winter months, Contract with a realtor. Otherwise start snapping your own exterior photos to attract buyers. Here's how.
- [What To Know About Closing Costs](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/what-to-know-about-closing-costs/) - Now that you've decided to buy a home and are ready to make it happen, it's a good idea to plan ahead for the costs that are a typical part of the homebuying process. And while your down payment is probably the number one expense on your mind, don't forget about closing costs. Here's what
- [Why Pre-Approval Should Be at the Top of Your Homebuying To-Do List](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/why-pre-approval-should-be-at-the-top-of-your-homebuying-to-do-list/) - Since the supply of homes for sale is growing and mortgage rates are coming down, you may be thinking it's finally time to jump into the market. To make sure you are ready, you need to get pre-approved for a mortgage. That's when a lender looks at your finances, including W-2, tax returns, credit score
- [The Latest on the Luxury Home Market](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/the-latest-on-the-luxury-home-market/) - Luxury living is about more than just stunning views and cutting-edge smart home technology. It's about elevating your lifestyle. And if you're in the market for a million dollar home, now is an excellent time to explore the thriving luxury market. Here's why. The Number of Luxury Homes is Growing The top of the market,
- [Are We Heading into a Balanced Market?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/are-we-heading-into-a-balanced-market/) - If you've been keeping an eye on the housing market over the past couple of years, you know sellers have had the upper hand. But is that going to shift now that inventory is growing? Here's a breakdown of what you need to know. What is a Balanced Market? A balanced market is generally defined
- [How the Federal Reserve's Next Move Could Impact the Housing Market](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/how-the-federal-reserves-next-move-could-impact-the-housing-market/) - Now that it's September, all eyes are on the Federal Reserve. The overwhelming expectation is that they will cut the Federal Funds Rate at their upcoming meeting. This would be driven primarily by recent signs that inflation is cooling, and the job market is slowing down. But what does this mean for the housing market,
- [Should You Sell Now?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/should-you-sell-now/) - The Lifestyle Factors That Could Tip the Scale Are you on the fence about whether to sell your house now or hold off? It's a commmon dilemma, but here's a key point to consider. Your lifestyle might be the biggest factor in your decision. While financial aspects are important, sometimes the personal motivations for moving
- [Today's Biggest Housing Market Myths](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/todays-biggest-housing-market-myths/) - Have you ever heard the phrase: don't believe everything you hear? That's especially true if you're thinking about buying or selling a home in today's housing market. There's a lot of misinformation out there. And right now, making sure you have someone you can go to for trustworthy information is extra important. I can clear
- [Fast Spreading Plants You Should Get Rid Of Now](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/fast-spreading-plants-you-should-get-rid-of-now/) - There are a lot of garden "spreaders" that are dropping seeds soon. If you don't do some manual thinning now, next year is going to be bad. It's fair to say that the goal of many gardeners is to create a self-sustaining yard. This means that each year, plants that will self-seed, perennialize or just
- [How Mortgage Rate Changes Impact Your Homebuying Power](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/how-mortgage-rate-changes-impact-your-homebuying-power/) - If you're thinking about buying or selling a home, you've probably got mortgage rates on your mind. That's because you've likely heard that mortgage rates impact how much you can afford in your monthly mortgage payment. And, you want to factor that into your planning. Here's what you need to know: What's Happening with Mortgage
- [What Mortgage Rate Are You Waiting For?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/what-mortgage-rate-are-you-waiting-for/) - You won't find anyone who's going to argue that mortgage rates have had a big impact on housing affordability over the past couple of years. But there is hope on the horizon. Rates have actually started to come down. And, recently they hit the lowest point we've seen in 2024, according to Freddie Mac. And
- [When To Cut Back Perennials](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/when-to-cut-back-perennials/) - In the crunch of the annual fall cleanup, remember to make time for perennial clean up. Cutting back foliage protects flowering plants from disease and provides a clean start for regrowth. But many perennial plants are worth leaving up if they're healthy, since letting them stand for winter can increase their hardiness and benefit wildlife.
- [Where Will You Go After You Sell?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/where-will-you-go-after-you-sell/) - If you're planning to sell your house and move, you probably know there's been a shortage of options available. But here's the good news. The supply of homes for sale has grown in a lot of markets this year. That's not just existing, or previously owned homes. It's true for newly built homes too. So
- [What Every Homeowner Should Know About Their Equity](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/what-every-homeowner-should-know-about-their-equity/) - Curious about selling your home? Understanding how much equity you have is the first step to unlocking what you can afford when you move. And since home prices rose so much over the past few years, most people have much more equity than they may realize. Here's a deeper look at what you need to
- [Are Home Prices Going To Come Down?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/are-home-prices-going-to-come-down/) - Today's headlines and news stories about home prices are confusing and make it tough to know what's really happening. Some say home prices are heading for a correction, but what do the facts say? Well, it helps to start by looking at what a correction means. In the context of today's housing market, it doesn't
- [Unlocking Homebuyer Opportunities in 2024](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/unlocking-homebuyer-opportunities-in-2024/) - There's no arguing this past year has been difficult for homebuyers. And if you're someone who has started the process of searching for a home, maybe you put your search on hold. A Bright MLS study found some of the top reasons buyers paused their search in late 2023 and early 2024 were: They couldn't
- [Why a Foreclosure Wave Isn't on the Horizon](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/why-a-foreclosure-wave-isnt-on-the-horizon/) - Even though data shows inflation is cooling, a lot of people are still feeling the pinch on their wallets. And those high costs on everything from gas to groceries are fueling unnecessary concerns that more people are going to have trouble making their mortgage payments. But, does that mean there is a big wave of
- [Trees You Should Never Grow in Your Yard](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/trees-you-should-never-grow-in-your-yard/) - Trees can add beauty and value to a home landscape - if you plant the right species and find the right spot for them. Here are trees you DON'T want to plant in the home landscape. Callery Pear: Beautiful white flowers in spring and burgundy foliage in fall. Problem is the structure is weak. Invasive!
- [Don't Wait for the Perfect Home!](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/dont-wait-for-the-perfect-home/) - In life, patience is a virtue. In the world of homebuying, waiting too long in hopes of finding the perfect home isn't wise. That's because the pursuit of perfection comes at a cost. That cost may be delaying your dream of homeownership. The Cost of Holding Out for Perfection Nothing in life is ever perfect.
- [Why Moving to a Smaller Home After Retirement Makes Life Easier](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/why-moving-to-a-smaller-home-after-retirement-makes-life-easier/) - Retirement is a time for relaxation, adventure, and enjoying the things you love. As you imagine this exciting new chapter in your life, it's important to think about whether your current home still fits your needs. If it's too big, too costly, or just not convenient anymore, downsizing might help you make the most of
- [Five Ways to Keep Your Lawn Alive During a Drought](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/five-ways-to-keep-your-lawn-alive-during-a-drought/) - Even if your yard looks dry and crispy, all is not lost. As summer reaches its peak, many parts of the country are blazing hot and bone dry. Extended periods of drought can put a lot of stress on your lawn. But if your grass already looks dry and crispy, it's probably not dead. Even
- [Why Your Asking Price Matters Even More Now](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/why-your-asking-price-matters-even-more-now/) - If you're thinking about selling your house, here's something you really need to know. Even though it's still a seller's market today, you can't pick just any price for your listing. While home prices are still appreciating in most areas, they are climbing at a slower pace. That's because higher mortgage rates are putting a
- [Not a Housing Crash!!](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/not-a-housing-crash/) - 3 Graphs That Show How Today's Inventory Differs from 2008 Even if you didn't own a home at the time, you probably remember the housing crisis in 2008. That crash impacted the lives of countless people. Many now live with the worry that something like that could happen again. But rest easy, because things are
- [Real Estate Still Holds the Title of Best Long-Term Investment](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/real-estate-still-holds-the-title-of-best-long-term-investment/) - With all the headlines circulating about home prices and mortgage rates, you may be asking yourself if it still makes sense to buy a home right now, or if it's better to keep renting. Here is some information that could help put your mind at ease. Investing in a home is still a powerful decision.
- [How Long Will It Take To Sell My House?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/how-long-will-it-take-to-sell-my-house/) - You want your house to sell fast! You may be wondering how long the process is going to take. Work with me to get the best advice. I have the expertise to tell you how quickly homes are selling in your area and what's impacting timelines for other sellers. That way you have realistic expectations
- [Housing Market Forecast:  What's Ahead for the 2nd Half of 2024](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/housing-market-forecast-whats-ahead-for-the-2nd-half-of-2024/) - As we move into the second half of 2024, here's what eperts say you should expect for home prices, mortgage rates, and home sales. Home Prices Are Expected to Climb Moderately Home prices are forecasted to rise at a more normal pace. The graph below shows the best forecasts from seven of the most trusted
- [What You Need to Know About Today's Down Payment Programs](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/what-you-need-to-know-about-todays-down-payment-programs/) - There's no denying it's gotten more challenging to buy a home, especially with today's mortgage rates and home price appreciation. And that may be one of the big reasons you're eager to look into grants and assistance programs to see if there is anything you qualify for that can help. But unfortunately, many homebuyers feel
- [Savings Strategies Every First-Time Homebuyer Needs to Know](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/savings-strategies-every-first-time-homebuyer-needs-to-know/) - If homeownership is on your goal sheet for your future, you are probably working on your savings. And a big priority is making sure you've got a plan in place for things like your closing costs, down payment, and more. Here are a few strategies that can help speed up that process. Budget and Track
- [Selling Smart:  Why a Real Estate Agent Makes All the Difference](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/selling-smart-why-a-real-estate-agent-makes-all-the-difference/) - If you are considering selling your house on your own as a "For Sale by Owner" (FSBO), you want to think about if it's really worth the extra stress. Going this route means shoulderirng a lot of responsibilities by yourself. If you're not an expert, that opens the door for mistakes to happen and can
- [Home Prices Aren't Declining, But Headlines Might Make You Think They Are](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/home-prices-arent-declining-but-headlines-might-make-you-think-they-are/) - If you've seen the news lately about home sellers slashing prices, it's a great example of how headlines do more to terrify than clarify. Here's what's really happening with prices. The bottom line is home prices are higher than they were a year ago at this time, and they're expected to keep rising, just at
- [Your Equity Could Make a Move Possible](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/your-equity-could-make-a-move-possible/) - Many homeowners looking to sell feel like they are stuck between a rock and a hard place right now. Today's mortgage rates are higher than what they currently have. That's making it harder to want to sell and make a move. Maybe you are in the same boat. But what if there was a way
- [The Biggest Mistakes Buyers Are Making Today](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/the-biggest-mistakes-buyers-are-making-today/) - Buyers face challenges in any market. Today's market is no different. With higher mortgage rates and rising prices, plus the limited supply of homes for sale, there is a lot to consider. But, there's one way to avoid getting tripped up. And, that's leaning on a real estate agent for the best possible advice. My
- [How Do Climate Risks Affect Your Next Home?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/how-do-climate-risks-affect-your-next-home/) - Climate change is impacting where people buy homes. As the experts at the National Association of Realtors explain: "Sixty-three percent of people who have moved since the pandemic began say they believe climate change is - or will be - an issue in the place they currently live." If you are planning to move, climate
- [How VA Loans Can Help You Buy a Home](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/how-va-loans-can-help-you-buy-a-home/) - For over 80 years, Veterans Affairs (VA) home loans have helped millions of veterans buy their own homes. If you or someone you know has served in the military, it's important to let them know about this program and its benefits. Here are some key things to know about VA loans before buying a home.
- [Questions You May Have About Selling Your House](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/questions-you-may-have-about-selling-your-house/) - There's no denying mortgage rates are having a big impact on today's housing market. And that may leave you with some questions about whether it still makes sense to sell your house and make a move. Here are three of the top questions you may be asking and the data that helps answer them. 1.
- [Home Maintenance Costs](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/home-maintenance-costs/) - Are you worried about Home Maintenance Costs? If one of the main reasons you're hesitant to buy a home is because you're worried about the upkeep, here's some information you may find interesting on both new home construction and existing homes. Newly Built Homes Need Less Upfront Maintenance If you can afford it, you may
- [Ants on Hummingbird Feeders](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/ants-on-hummingbird-feeders/) - Keep Ants Off Hummingbird Feeders with Ant Moats Ants can cause big problems for people who feed hummingbirds. One solution is to attach an ant moat for hummingbird feeders. This is a cup that wraps around the hanger and is filled with plain water. Ants can't cross so it keeps them from continuing down to
- [Why a Condo May Be a Great Option for Your First Home!](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/why-a-condo-may-be-a-great-option-for-your-first-home/) - Having a hard time finding a first home that's right for you and your wallet? Here's a tip - think about condominiums. Condos are usually smaller than single-family homes, but that's exactly why they can be easier on your budget. So, if you are comfortable with a smaller space and want to buy your first
- [How to Test Your Soil and Why You Should](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/how-to-test-your-soil-and-why-you-should/) - You can use an at-home kit, or send out some soil to be professionally tested When it comes to your plants, you can't cheat. If you cut a corner, the results are going to be felt in your garden. Stressed plants that are susceptible to disease, produce less fruit and fruit that tastes less awesome.
- [Top 2 Reasons to Consider a Newly Built Home](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/top-2-reasons-to-consider-a-newly-built-home/) - When you're planning a move, it's normal to wonder where you'll end up and what your future home is going to look like. Maybe you've got a specific picture of that house in your mind. But unless you came into this process knowing you want to buy a newly built home, you may not have
- [Tips for Younger Homebuyers](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tips-for-younger-homebuyers/) - How To Make Your Dream a Reality If you are a member of a younger generation, like Gen Z, you may be asking the question will I ever be able to buy a home? And chances are, you're worried that's not going to be in the cards with inflation, rising home prices, mortgage rates, and
- [What Is Going on with Mortgage Rates?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/what-is-going-on-with-mortgage-rates/) - You may have heard mortgage rates are going to stay a bit higher for longer than originally expected. And if you are wondering why, the answer lies in the latest economic data. Here's a quick overview of what's happening with mortgage rates and what experts say is ahead. Economic Factors That Impact Mortgage Rates When
- ["No Mow May"](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/no-mow-may/) - Instead of "No Mow May," Try "Slow Mow Summer" Mowing your lawn less often can be good for the environment, depending on how you do it. Benefits Lawns, mowed short, give us space for dogs and kids to play. They also keep our neighbors from making complaints to the town government or homeowneers' association. But
- [How Buying or Selling a Home Benefits Your Community](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/how-buying-or-selling-a-home-benefits-your-community/) - If you're thinking of buying or selling a house, it's important to know it doesn't just impact you - it helps out the local economy and your community, too. Every year, the National Association of Realtors puts out a report that breaks down the financial impact that comes from people buying and selling homes. When
- [Home Prices Are Climbing in These Top Cities](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/home-prices-are-climbing-in-these-top-cities/) - Thinking about buying a home or selling your current one to find a better fit? If so, you might be wondering what's going on with home prices these days. The latest national data from Case-Shiller and the Federal Housing Finance Agency shows they are going up. As you can see, home prices were rising for
- [Five Warning Signs Your Chimney Needs Repair](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/five-warning-signs-your-chimney-needs-repair/) - From smelling your dryer to peeling wallpaper, these are issues you don't want to ignore! Though you probably don't think about yours often, a chimney is a vital part of keeping your home safe and healthy to live in. A house produces a lot of dangerous stuff, from fireplace smoke to exhaust from gas appliances,
- [Should I Move with Today's Mortgage Rates?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/should-i-move-with-todays-mortgage-rates/) - Time To Move? When mortgage rates spiked up over the last few years, some homeowners put their plans to move on pause. Maybe you did too because you didn't want to sell and take on a higher mortgage rate for your next home. But is that still the right strategy for you? "Listings are up
- [Builders Are Building Smaller Homes](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/builders-are-building-smaller-homes/) - There's no arguing it, affordability is still tight. And if you are trying to buy a home, that may mean you need to look at smaller houses to find one that's still in your budget. But there is a silver lining, builders are focucsed on building these smaller homes right now and they are offering
- [What You Really Need to Know About Home Prices](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/what-you-really-need-to-know-about-home-prices/) - According to recent data from Fannie Mae, almost 1 in 4 people still think home prices are going to come down. If you are one of the people worried about that, here's what you need to know. A lot of that fear is probably coming from what you're hearing in the media or reading online.
- [One Walk-in Shower Is as Good as Any Other, Right?  Wrong.](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/one-walk-in-shower-is-as-good-as-any-other-right-wrong/) - Here's how to make your morning shower more luxurious. A utilitarian walk-in shower works just as well as something nicer, so why spend the time and effort - and the money - to upgrade it? Designers Create Walk-in Showers A shower and stand-alone tub can sit side by side in a wet room, like this
- [Spring Things to do in Fairfield County](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/spring-things-to-do-in-fairfield-county/) - Winter has passed! There are loads of fun things to do now that the air is warm and the sun is shining. Flower Power: The first colorful blooms of spring bring a sense of renewal to our souls. Check out the Bartlett Arboretum & Gardens and Goodbody Garden in Stamford, the 40 acre New Canaan
- [Is It Easier To Find a Home To Buy Now?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/is-it-easier-to-find-a-home-to-buy-now/) - One of the biggest hurdles buyers have faced over the past few years has been a lack of homes available for sale. But that's starting to change. The graph below uses the latest data from Realtor.com to show there are more homes on the market in 2024 than there have been in any of the
- [Outdoor Projects Can Boost Curb Appeal When You Sell](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/outdoor-projects-can-boost-curb-appeal-when-you-sell/) - Some Highlights In real estate, a good first impression is key. If the outside of a house looks welcoming, more people will want to come in and see it. I can help you by giving advice on what you may want to prioritize, finding easy fixes that make a big difference, knowing what buyers in
- [The Best Week to List Your House is Almost Here](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/the-best-week-to-list-your-house-is-almost-here/) - Are You Thinking About Making a Move? If so, now may be the perfect time to start the process. That's because experts say the best week to list your house is just around the corner. A recent Realtor.com study looked at housing market trends over the past several years (with the exception of 2020, since
- [The Newest Home-Buying Puzzle](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/the-newest-home-buying-puzzle/) - What to Pay Your Real Estate Agent A settlement that stands to do away with real estate commission rules is rewriting the playbook for home buyers. Home buyers have long been told they have one way to work with a real estate agent. Starting this summer, they are poised to have many. Buyer Options One
- [Make Connecticut Safer for Migratory Birds](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/make-connecticut-safer-for-migratory-birds/) - Why Lights Out? Twice each year, millions of birds pass through Connecticut on their way to and from their nesting grounds. Many birds use our shorelines and green spaces to rest and refuel during their trip. Some stay in the summer. Most migratory birds pass over our state at night, when temperatures are cooler and
- [Best Decorating Tool for Your Home](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/best-decorating-tool-for-your-home/) - Paint is the best decorating tool for your home! There are many ways to change a room through the design of its walls. Sometimes it's just a fresh coat of paint in a new color that gives a room a new look. A change in color, pattern and texture can aid in changing the dynamics
- [Six Cheap (Or Free) Ways to Increase Your Home's Value!](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/six-cheap-or-free-ways-to-increase-your-homes-value/) - You Don't Have to Spend a Fortune to Increase Your Home Value Owning a home is an investment. Although owning a house will never give you a better return on other investments, the combination of building equity in a large asset that reliably appreciates and not pouring money into the black hole known as "rent"
- [Bird Strikes on Windows at Home](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/bird-strikes-on-windows-at-home/) - We know sometimes birds hit windows, and it's much worse during migration. Here are a few simple things you can do to stop windows strikes. Unfortunately sometimes birds run into our windows. That's why bird strike window is a common internet search. It can be much worse during spring and fall migration. It's never fun
- [Closing Costs](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/closing-costs/) - What Every Homebuyer Should Know About Closing Costs Before making the decision to buy a home, it's important to plan for all the costs you will be responsible for. While you are busy saving for the down payment, don't forget you will want to prep for closing costs too. Here's some helpful information on what
- [Remodel With These Materials for an Easier To Clean Home](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/remodel-with-these-materials-for-an-easier-to-clean-home/) - A Clean House is a Happier House! Some surfaces and materials are easier to clean (and keep clean) than others. Keeping a home clean isn't easy. The average person spends about five hours cleaning their home each week. Keeping a home tidy can take so much time and effort due to the materials and design
- [How to Keep Squirrels Out of Potted Plants](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/how-to-keep-squirrels-out-of-potted-plants/) - From a Barrier or Soil Protection to a Spicy Alternative Gardeners know that squirrels can pose a threat to nearly any potted plant. Here are all the ways to protect your plants this spring and summer. Build a Barrier Make a "cage" from bird netting, chicken wire, or using a pre-made potted plant guard that
- [What to Know About Credit Scores Before Buying a Home](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/what-to-know-about-credit-scores-before-buying-a-home/) - Know Your Credit Score If you want to buy a home, you should know your credit score is a critical piece of the puzzle to qualify for a mortgage. Lenders review your credit to see if you typically make payments on time, pay back debts, and more. Your credit score can also help determine your
- [Perks of Buying over Renting](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/perks-of-buying-over-renting/) - Thinking about buying a home? While today's mortgage rates might seem a bit intimidating, here are two solid reasons why. If you are ready and able, it could still be a smart move to get your own place. 1. Home values typically go up over time There's been some confusion over the past year or
- [Ways To Use Your Tax Refund if You Want to Buy a Home](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/ways-to-use-your-tax-refund-if-you-want-to-buy-a-home/) - Your Tax Refund Can Help Pay for Some of these Expenses Have you been saving up to buy a home this year? If so, you know there are a number of expenses involved - from your down payment to closing costs. But did you also know your tax refund can help you pay for some
- [Perks of Downsizing When You Retire](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/perks-of-downsizing-when-you-retire/) - If you are about to retire, or just did, downsizing can be a good way to try to cut down on some of your expenses. For Buyers: Smaller homes typically have lower energy and maintenance costs. Plus, you may have enough equity built up to fuel your move. For Sellers: If you are thinking about
- [Does It Make Sense To Buy a Home Right Now?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/does-it-make-sense-to-buy-a-home-right-now/) - Thinking about buying a home? If so, you are probably wondering should I buy now or wait? Nobody can make this decision for you, but here's some information that can help you decide. What's Next for Home Prices? In the latest survey, experts say home prices are going to keep going up for the next
- [What to Start Seeding and Planting in March](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/what-to-start-seeding-and-planting-in-march/) - March is finally your time, gardeners - but you still want to be selective about what you seed this early. If you are a gardening enthusiast, you have been waiting anxiously throughout February to start putting seeds in soil. March is finally your time, but you still want to be selective about what you seed
- [The Best Ways to Overcome Home Maintenance Anxiety](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/the-best-ways-to-overcome-home-maintenance-anxiety/) - Maintain your home with confidence and without fear! Home maintenance can feel like a lot. Repairs and even routine upkeep can seem daunting. If you aren't handy, they can be overwhelming. But putting off repairs can lead to bigger issues down the road. Even it you don't have much experience, or just need to understand
- [Hello world!](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/hello-world/) - Welcome to WordPress. This is your first post. Edit or delete it, then start writing!
- [Your Home is a Powerful Investment](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/your-home-is-a-powerful-investment/) - Going into 2023, there was a lot of talk about a possible recession that would cause the housing market to crash. Some in the media were even forecasting home prices would drop by as much as 10-20%. That might have made you feel a bit unsure about buying a home. But here's what actually happened.
- [Finding Your Perfect Home in a Fixer Upper](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/finding-your-perfect-home-in-a-fixer-upper/) - If you're trying to buy a home and are having a hard time finding one you can afford, it may be time to consider a fixer-upper. That's a house that needs a little elbow grease or some updates, but has good bones. Fixer-uppers can be a really great option if you are looking to break
- [Expert Home Price Forecasts for 2024 Revised Up](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/expert-home-price-forecasts-for-2024-revised-up/) - Over the past few months experts have revised their 2024 home price forecasts based on the latest data and market signals. They are even more confident prices will rise, not fall! So, let's see exactly how experts' thinking has shifted and what's caused the change. 2024 Home Price Forecasts: Then and Now The chart below
- [Why We Aren't Headed for a Housing Crash](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/why-we-arent-headed-for-a-housing-crash/) - If you're holding out hope that the housing market is going to crash and bring house prices back down, here's a look at what the data shows. And spoiler alert: that's not in the cards. Instead, experts say home prices are going to keep going up. Today's market is very different than it was before
- [It's Time To Prepare Your House for a Spring Listing](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/its-time-to-prepare-your-house-for-a-spring-listing/) - If you're thinking of selling your house this spring, now is the perfect time to start getting it ready. With the market gearing up for its busiest time of year, it'll be important to make sure your house shines bright among the competition. Here are some valuable tips you can use to get your house
- [What's Really Happening with Mortgage Rates?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/whats-really-happening-with-mortgage-rates/) - Are you feeling a bit unsure about what's really happening with mortgage rates? That might be because you've heard someone say they're coming down. But then you read somewhere else that they're up again. And that may leave you scratching your head and wondering what's true. The simplest answer is: that what you read or
- [Bridging the Gaps on the Road to Homeownership](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/bridging-the-gaps-on-the-road-to-homeownership/) - Homeownership is a major part of the American Dream. But, the path to achieving this dream can be quite difficult. While progress has been made to improve fair housing access, households of color still face unique challenges on the road to owning a home. Working with the right real estate agent can make all the
- [Why You Need an Oak Tree in Your Backyard](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/why-you-need-an-oak-tree-in-your-backyard/) - Just one oak tree provides shelter and food for hundreds of bird and butterfy species. Plus, it offers a shady escape in your backyard. Native trees offer incredible benefits for wildlife, so it's more important than ever to plant an oak tree. Oak Tree Wildlife Benefits The oak tree is indeed mighty when it comes
- [Dave Ramsey Says Now is the Time to Buy a House - Here's How](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/dave-ramsey-says-now-is-the-time-to-buy-a-house-heres-how/) - Housing Market The housing market is famously difficult to predict, but there are a number of factors to consider that can give potential buyers a sense of current and upcoming trends. Radio host and bestselling personal finance author Dave Ramsey offers a few data points to examine for people who are looking to buy a
- [Houses Are Still Selling Fast](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/houses-are-still-selling-fast/) - Have you been thinking about selling your house? If so, here's some good news. While the housing market isn't as frenzied as it was during the 'unicorn' years ,they are still selling faster than normal. The graph below uses data from Realtor.com. It tells the story of median days on the market. For Realtor.com, days
- [Why It's More Affordable to Buy a Home This Year!](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/why-its-more-affordable-to-buy-a-home-this-year/) - Some Highlights Home affordability depends on three factors: mortgage rates, home prices and wagesMortgage rates are down from their recent peak. Home prices are expected to rise at a slower pace. Wages are increasing faster than usual.That's good news if you want to buy a home because it means affordability is getting better.
- [Top Benefits of Buying a Multi-Generational Home](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/top-benefits-of-buying-a-multi-generational-home/) - Has the idea of sharing a home with loved ones like your grandparents, parents, or other relatives crossed your mind? If so, you're not alone. More buyers are choosing to go this route and buy a multi-generational home. Here's a look at some of the top reasons why. See if a home like this may
- [Are More Homeowners Selling as Mortgage Rates Come Down?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/are-more-homeowners-selling-as-mortgage-rates-come-down/) - If you're looking to buy a home, the recent downward trend in mortgage rates is good news because it helps with affordability. But there's another way this benefits you. It may inspire more homeowners to put their houses up for sale. The Mortgage Rate Lock-in Effect Over the past year, one factor that's really limited
- [Homebuyer Terms to Learn](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/homebuyer-terms-to-learn/) - Key Terms Every Homebuyer Should Learn Buying a home is a big deal. It can feel especially complicated if you don't know the terms used during the process. If you plan to become a homeowner this year, it's a good idea to learn these key housing terms and understand how they relate to the current
- [Homebuilder Sentiment Improves](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/homebuilder-sentiment-improves/) - Homebuilder sentiment improved in January, jumping 7 points to 44 on the National Association of Home Builders monthly index. Anything below 50 is still considered negative. The index has now moved 10 points higher in the last two months. Sentiment is now at the highest level since September. The increase coincides with a big drop
- [The Benefits of Working With an Agent When You Sell Your Home](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/the-benefits-of-working-with-an-agent-when-you-sell-your-home/) - When it comes to selling your house, my experience and knowledge can make a difference. I will explain what's happening, what that means for you, and how to price and market your house. I am also a skilled negotiator and well versed in the contracts and disclosures involved. If you plan to sell your home,
- [Avoid These Common Mistakes After Applying for a Mortgage](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/avoid-these-common-mistakes-after-applying-for-a-mortgage/) - If you are getting ready to buy a home, it's exciting to jump a few steps ahead and think about moving in and making it your own. But before you get too far down the emotional path, there are some key things to keep in mind after you apply for your mortgage and before you
- [The Dramatic Impact of Homeownership on Net Worth](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/the-dramatic-impact-of-homeownership-on-net-worth/) - If you're trying to decide whether to rent or buy a home this year, here's a powerful insight that could give you the clarity and confidence you need to make your decision. Every three years, the Federal Reserve releases the Survey of Consumer Finances. It compares net worth for homeowners and renters. The latest report
- [Achieving Your Homebuying Dreams in 2024](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/achieving-your-homebuying-dreams-in-2024/) - Highlights Planning to buy a home in 2024? Here's what to focus onImprove your credit score. Plan for your down payment. Get pre-approved and decide what's most important to you.Let's get together to discuss your homebuying goals for 2024.
- [Ways Your Home Equity Can Help You Reach Your Goals](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/ways-your-home-equity-can-help-you-reach-your-goals/) - I've you've owned your house for at least a couple of years, there's something you're going to want to know more about. That's home equity! If you're not familiar with that term, Freddie Mac defines it like this: "......your home's equity is the difference between how much your home is worth and how much you
- [Thinking About Buying a Home?  Ask Yourself These Questions](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/thinking-about-buying-a-home-ask-yourself-these-questions/) - If you're thinking of buying a home this year, you're probably paying closer attention than normal to the housing market. And you're getting your information from a variety of channels: the news, social media, your real estate agent, conversations with friends and loved ones. Most likely, home prices and mortgage rates are coming up a
- [Why Pre-Approval Is Your Homebuying Game Changer](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/why-pre-approval-is-your-homebuying-game-changer/) - If you are thinking about buying a home, pre-approval is a crucial part of the process you definitely don't want to skip. So, before you start picturing yourself in your new living room or dining on your future all-season patio, be sure you are working with a trusted lender to prioritize this essential step. Here's
- [Get Ready To Buy a Home by Improving Your Credit Score](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/get-ready-to-buy-a-home-by-improving-your-credit-score/) - As the new year approaches, the idea of buying a home might be on your mind. It's an exciting goal to set. It's never too early to start laying the groundwork. One crucial step to prepare for homeownership is building a solid credit score. Lenders review your credit to assess your ability to make payments
- [Where Do Woodpeckers Migrate in Winter?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/where-do-woodpeckers-migrate-in-winter/) - Some woodpeckers stay in the same place year-round, but in other instances, woodpeckers do head south for winter. Some species are short distance travelers, while others make epic annual migration journeys. Migratory Woodpeckers on the Move Of the 22 species of woodpeckers in the United States and Canada, nearly one third of them migrate from
- [What You Need to Know About Saving for a Home in 2024](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/what-you-need-to-know-about-saving-for-a-home-in-2024/) - If you are planning to buy a home, knowing what to budget for and how to save may sound intimidating. It doesn't have to be. One way to ease those concerns is to make sure you understand some of the costs you may encounter up front. I can help you set a plan. We can
- [CT Homeowners May Find Their Oil Tanks At Risk](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/ct-homeowners-may-find-their-oil-tanks-at-risk/) - If you are heating your home with oil, you may find that your oil tank is at risk. A not insignificant number of storage tank owners have found that biofuels have caused corrosion in their tanks and/or tank equipment and components. The reason for this is not due to the composition of the tank and
- [Cheaper to Repair Your Own Appliance](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/cheaper-to-repair-your-own-appliance/) - When an appliance starts throwing error codes, you might think you are in for an expensive professional repair! There's another option. Some appliances are more or less necessary to survival these days, like a refrigerator. Others, like dishwashers or laundry machines, save us a lot of time and personal labor. These appliances can be a
- [Why Mortgage Rates Could Continue To Decline](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/why-mortgage-rates-could-continue-to-decline/) - When you read about the housing market, you'll probably come across some information about inflation or recent decisions made by the Federal Reserve. But how do those two things impact you and your homebuying plans? Here's what you need to know. The Federal Funds Rate Hikes Have Stalled One of the Fed's primary goals is
- [Why Now is Still a Great Time To Sell Your House](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/why-now-is-still-a-great-time-to-sell-your-house/) - If you were worried buyer demand disappeared when mortgage rates went up, the data shows there are plenty of interested buyers still out there. The housing market isn't as frenzied as it was during the 'unicorn' years . During those years buyer demand was through the roof, mortgage rates were historically low, and home values
- [Down Payment Assistance Programs](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/down-payment-assistance-programs/) - Down payment assistance programs can help pave the way to HOMEOWNERSHIP! If you are looking to buy a home, your down payment doesn't have to be a big hurdle. According to the National Association of Realtors, 38% of first-time homebuyers find saving for a down payment the most challenging step. But the reality is, you
- [Over-inflating Your Tires in the Winter](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/over-inflating-your-tires-in-the-winter/) - Your tires have a recommended PSI for a reason. Snow, ice, and frigid temperatures can make wintertime driving a challenge. Drivers deal with this in a variety of ways: from winterizing their cars and keeping emergency kits in their trunk, to paying more attention to their tires. For example, some people mistakenly believe that reducing
- [Why You Should Use a Real Estate Agent When You Buy a Home](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/why-you-should-use-a-real-estate-agent-when-you-buy-a-home/) - I am Ben Keeney .... an agent with RE/MAX Right Choice in Newtown, CT. If you have recently decided you are ready to become a homeowner, chances are you are trying to figure out what to do first. It can feel overwhelming to know where to start, but the good news is you don't have
- [How To Turn Homeownership into a Side Hustle](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/how-to-turn-homeownership-into-a-side-hustle/) - Does the rising cost of just about everything these days make your dream of owning your own home feel less within reach? Many people are seeking additional income through side hustles, possibly to cope with increasing expenses and save for a home. This trend is particularly popular with younger individuals who may be dealing with
- [When You Sell Your House, Where Do You Plan To Go?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/when-you-sell-your-house-where-do-you-plan-to-go/) - If you're thinking about selling your house, you may have heard the supply of homes for sale is still low, and that means your house should stand out to buyers who are craving more options. But you may also be wondering once you sell, how does the current supply impact your own move? And, will
- [Is Owning a Home Still the American Dream for Younger Buyers?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/is-owning-a-home-still-the-american-dream-for-younger-buyers/) - Everyone has their own idea of the American Dream. It's different for each person. But, in a recent survey by Bankrate, people were asked about the achievements they believe represent the American Dream the most. The answers show that owning a home still claims the #1 spot for many Americans today. In fact, owning a
- [Why Selling Your Home on Your Own in 2024 Is A Mistake!](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/why-selling-your-home-on-your-own-in-2024-is-a-mistake/) - There are many benefits to working with a real estate agent professional when selling your home. During challenging times, like what we face today, it becomes even more important to have an expert you trust to help guide you through the process. If you are considering selling on your own (For Sale By Owner FSBO),
- [Are the Top 3 Housing Market Questions on Your Mind?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/are-the-top-3-housing-market-questions-on-your-mind/) - When it comes to what's happening in the Housing Market, there's a lot of confusion going around right now. You may hear one thing in conversation with your friends, see something totally different on the news, and read something on social media that contradicts both of those thoughts. And, if you are thinking about making
- [Clarifying Lawsuits](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/clarifying-lawsuits/) - Three Things to Know About the Real Estate Class-Action Commissions Lawsuits What Are The Lawsuits About? While all of these cases have different key players, they all seek to change the longstanding practice of homesellers paying commissions for both the buyer and listing agents through the proceeds of the sale. The plaintiffs believe that current
- [What is a Hubbard Clause In a Real Estate Transaction?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/what-is-a-hubbard-clause-in-a-real-estate-transaction/) - A Hubbard clause is an addendum or rider to a residential real estate purchase agreement. It makes the purchase contingent upon the buyer selling their own home first. It's important you hire an attorney familiar with how they work and the potential pitfalls. They are becoming more common in Fairfield County. They come in many
- [Top Cities Show Home Prices Are Still Climbing](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/top-cities-show-home-prices-are-still-climbing/) - If you're considering buying a home or selling your current one to find something that better suits your needs, you may have questions about what's happening with home prices today. Here's what you need to know. There's still a lot of confusion and misinformation out there. No matter what you may have heard, the national
- [Homeowner Net Worth Has Skyrocketed](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/homeowner-net-worth-has-skyrocketed/) - If you're weighing your options to decide whether it makes more sense to rent or buy a home today, here's one key data point that could help you feel more confident in making your decision. Every three years, the Federal Reserve Board releases the Survey of Consumer Finances. That report covers the difference in net
- [Reasons to Sell Your House Before the New Year](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/reasons-to-sell-your-house-before-the-new-year/) - As the year winds down, you may have decided it's time to make a move and put your house on the market. But should you sell now or wait until January? It may be tempting to hold off until after the holidays. Here are three reasons to make your move before the new year. Get
- [Protect Your Plants Before a Freeze](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/protect-your-plants-before-a-freeze/) - Three Things To Do to Protect Your Plants Before a Freeze Much of the U.S. is entering freeze season. I'm not talking a light morning frost, but a full-on freeze. While ideally we would all be planting natives that are well-accustomed to our local climate, it's not always realistic. We like what we like and
- [A Real Estate Agent Helps Take the Fear Out of the Market](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/a-real-estate-agent-helps-take-the-fear-out-of-the-market/) - Ben Keeney at RE/MAX * bnkeeney@remax.net * 203-313-0013 Do negative headlines and talk on social media have you feeling worried about the housing market? Maybe you have even seen or heard something lately that scares you and makes you wonder if you should still buy or sell a home right now. Regrettably, when news in
- [Foreclosures and Bankruptcies Won't Crash the Housing Market](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/foreclosures-and-bankruptcies-wont-crash-the-housing-market/) - If you have been following the news recently, you might have seen articles about an increase in foreclosures and bankruptcies. That could be making you feel uneasy, especially if you're thinking about buying or selling a house. Even though the numbers are going up, the data shows the housing market isn't headed for a crisis.
- [Why Home Prices Keep Going Up](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/why-home-prices-keep-going-up/) - If you've ever dreamed of buying your own place, or selling your current house to upgrade, you're no stranger to the rollercoaster of emotions changing home prices can stir up. It's a tale of financial goals, doubts, and a dash of anxiety that many have been through. But if you put off moving because you're
- [Invest in Yourself by Owning a Home](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/invest-in-yourself-by-owning-a-home/) - Are you wondering if it makes sense to buy a home right now? While today's mortgage rates might seem a bit intimidating, here are two compelling reasons why it still may be a good time to become a homeowner. Home Values Appreciate over Time There's been a lot of confusion around what's happened with home
- [Unpacking the Long-Term Benefits of Homeownership](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/unpacking-the-long-term-benefits-of-homeownership/) - If you're thinking about buying a home soon, higher mortgage rates, rising home prices and ongoing affordability concerns may make you wonder if it still makes sense to buy a home right now. While those market factors are important, there's more to consider. You should think about the long-term benefits of homeownership too. Think about
- [The Risks of Selling Your House on Your Own](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/the-risks-of-selling-your-house-on-your-own/) - Are you thinking about selling your house as a For Sale by Owner (FSBO)? If so, know there's a whole lot more time and expertise needed in that process than you might think. While the idea of doing it all by yourself might seem tempting, it's important to recognize the challenges you may face if
- [Are You a Homebuyer Worried About Climate Risks?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/are-you-a-homebuyer-worried-about-climate-risks/) - The increasing effects of natural disasters are leading to new obstacles in residential real estate. As a recent article from CoreLogic explains: "Aa the specter of climate change looms large, the world braces for unprecedented challenges. In the world or real estate, one of those challenges will be the effects of natural catastrophes on property
- [How Buying a Multi-Generational Home Helps with Affordability Today](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/how-buying-a-multi-generational-home-helps-with-affordability-today/) - In today's world of rising housing costs, many buyers are looking for ways to still be able to buy a home. Some of them have found a solution in multi-generational living. Multi-generational living is when two or more adult generations live together under one roof. This includes siblings, parents, or even grandparents. Here's an in-depth
- [Why Your House Didn't Sell](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/why-your-house-didnt-sell/) - If your listing expired and your house didn't sell, you are likely feeling a little frustrated. Not to mention, you are also probably wondering what went wrong. Here are three questions to think about as you figure out what to do next. Did You Limit Access to Your House? One of the biggest mistakes you
- [Home Prices Are Not Falling](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/home-prices-are-not-falling/) - During the fourth quarter of last year, some housing experts projected home prices were going to crash in 2023. The media ran with those forecasts and put out headlines calling for doom and gloom in the housing market. All of this negative news coverage made a lot of people have doubts about the strength of
- [Remote Work Is Changing How Some Buyers Search for Their Dream Homes](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/remote-work-is-changing-how-some-buyers-search-for-their-dream-homes/) - The way Americans work has changed in recent years, and remote work is at the forefront of this shift. Experts say it will continue to be popular for years to come and project that 36.2 million Americans will be working remotely by 2025. To give you some perspective, that's a 41.7% increase compared to the
- [The Many Non-Financial Benefits of Homeownership](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/the-many-non-financial-benefits-of-homeownership/) - Buying and owning your own home can have a big impact on your life. While there are financial reasons to become a homeowner, it's essential to think about the non-financial benefits that make a home more than just a place to live. Here are some of the top non-financial reasons to buy a home: According
- [Your Home Equity Can Offset Affordability Challenges](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/your-home-equity-can-offset-affordability-challenges/) - Are you thinking about selling your house? If so, today's mortgage rates may be making you wonder if that's the right decision. Some homeowners are reluctant to sell and take on a higher mortgage rate on their next home. If you are worried about this too, know that even though rates are high right now,
- [Are More Homes Coming onto the Market?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/are-more-homes-coming-onto-the-market/) - An important factor shaping today's market is the number of homes for sale. And, if you are considering whether or not to list your house, that's one of the biggest advantages you have right now. When housing inventory is this low, your house will stand out. Price it right! But there are some early signs
- [Should Baby Boomers Buy or Rent After Selling Their Houses?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/should-baby-boomers-buy-or-rent-after-selling-their-houses/) - Are you a baby boomer who's lived in your current house for a long time and you are ready for a change? If you are thinking about selling your house, you have a lot to consider. Will you move to a different state or stay nearby? Is it time to downsize or do you want
- [Why is Housing Inventory So Low?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/why-is-housing-inventory-so-low/) - One question that's top of mind if you are thinking about a move today is: Why is it so hard to find a house to buy? And while it may be tempting to wait it out until you have more options, that's probably not the best strategy. Here's why.... There aren't enough homes available for
- [Expert Home Price Forecasts Revised Up for 2023](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/expert-home-price-forecasts-revised-up-for-2023/) - Toward the end of last year, there were a number of headlines saying home prices were going to fall substantially in 2023. That led to a lot of fear and questions about whether there was going to be a repeat of the housing crash that happened back in 2008. But the headlines got it wrong.
- [What Experts Project for Home Prices Over the Next 5 Years](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/what-experts-project-for-home-prices-over-the-next-5-years/) - If you're planning to buy a home, one thing to consider is what experts project home prices will do in the future and how that might affect your investment. While you may have seen negative news over the past year about home prices, they're doing far better than expected and are rising across the country.
- [Buyer Traffic Is Still Stronger than the Norm](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/buyer-traffic-is-still-stronger-than-the-norm/) - Are you putting off selling your house because you're worried no one's buying because of where mortgage rates are? If so, know this: the latest data shows plenty of buyers are still out there. Buyers are purchasing homes today. The Showing Time Showing Index is a measure of buyers touring homes. The group below uses
- [Why It's Still a Seller's Market Today](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/why-its-still-a-sellers-market-today/) - Even though activity in the housing market has slowed from the frenzy that was the 'unicorn' years, it's still a seller's market because the supply of homes for sale is so low. But what does that really mean for you? And why are conditions today so good if you want to sell your house? The
- [How Inflation Affects the Housing market](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/how-inflation-affects-the-housing-market/) - Have you ever wondered how inflation impacts the housing market? Believe it or not, they are connected. Whenever there are changes to one, both are affected. Here's a high-level overview of the connection between the two. The Relationship Between Housing Inflation and Overall Inflation Shelter inflation is the measure of price growth specific to housing.
- [Why Median Home Sales Price Is Confusing Right Now](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/why-median-home-sales-price-is-confusing-right-now/) - Existing Home Sales Report The National Association of Realtors is set to release its most recent Existing Home Sales report tomorrow. This monthly release provides information on the volume of sales and price trends for homes that have previusly been owned. In the upcoming release, it will likely say home prices are down. This may
- [Money Traps that Keep You From Being Wealthy](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/money-traps-that-keep-you-from-being-wealthy/) - Typically, people in the middle class have some kind of college education, some disposable income, and may even be planning for retirement. But that doesn't mean they are financially stable. In fact, middle class households usually have some kind of debt like a mortgage, auto loan or credit cards. If you're in the middle class
- [What 7% Mortgage Rates Mean for Home Buyers](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/what-7-mortgage-rates-mean-for-home-buyers/) - Buyers should focus on what they can control rather than try to predict mortgage rates!!! The math on buying a home grew even more depressing in recent weeks as mortgage rates approached 7%. Further frustrating buyers is the expectation rates could remain high for some time. The average rate on the standard 30-year fixed mortgage
- [Where Are People Moving Today and Why?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/where-are-people-moving-today-and-why/) - Plenty of people are still moving these days. And if you are thinking of making a move yourself, you may be considering the inventory and affordability challenges in the housing market. You may be wondering what you can do to help offset those. A new report from Gravy Analytics provides insight into where people are
- [Equity is a Game Changer for Homeowners Looking to Sell](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/equity-is-a-game-changer-for-homeowners-looking-to-sell/) - If you're a homeowner, you might be torn on whether or not to sell your house right now. Maybe that's because you don't want to take on a higher mortgage rate on your next home. If that's your biggest hurdle, understanding your equity may be exactly what you need to help you feel more comfortable
- [Air-Purifying Plants for Your Home](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/air-purifying-plants-for-your-home/) - Plants to consider when you want to purify the air in your home.. In 1989, a NASA study seemed to show that many indoor houseplants purify the air. It was said that these air-purifying plants remove airborne toxins, dust, and germs. Since then, scientists have poked holes in the study. Although plants can clean the
- [About 11,000 Houses Will Sell Today](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/about-11000-houses-will-sell-today/) - Some homeowners have been waiting for months to put their house on the market because they don't think people are buying homes right now. If that's you, know that even though the housing market has slowed compared to the frenzy of a couple of years ago, it isn't at a standstill. Contrary to what you
- [Housing Relationship Between Supply and Affordability](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/housing-relationship-between-supply-and-affordability/) - A 2022 study from political scientists in the University of California system found that a majority of Americans do not believe that increasing the supply of housing makes it more affordable. And this perception was not unique to homeowners but also prevailed among renters who bear the brunt of America's housing shortage. New Construction -
- [Storage Solutions for a Dorm](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/storage-solutions-for-a-dorm/) - Some Ideas to Create More Storage in Your Dorm When you're heading off to college, it's fun to imagine how functional your dorm will be. But, reality hits you the moment you walk in there for the first time. It's small....really small. Dreams of a clutter-free living space disappear as you realize that you're expected
- [Pricing Your House Right Still Matters Today](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/pricing-your-house-right-still-matters-today/) - While this isn't the frenzied market we saw during the 'unicorn' years, homes that are priced right are still selling quickly and seeing multiple offers right now. That's because the number of homes for sale is still so low. Data from the National Association of Realtors shows 76% of homes sold within a month and
- [Sellers:  Don't Let These Two Things Hold You Back!](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/sellers-dont-let-these-two-things-hold-you-back/) - Many homeowners thinking about selling have two key things holding them back. That's feeling locked in by today's higher mortgage rates and worrying they won't be able to find something to buy while supply is so low. Let's dive into each challenge and give you some helpful advice on how to overcome these obstacles. Challenge
- [Homebuyers Are Still More Active Than Usual](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/homebuyers-are-still-more-active-than-usual/) - Even though the housing market is no longer experiencing the frenzy that was so characteristic of the last couple of years, it doesn't mean today's market is at a standstill. In actuality, buyer traffic is still strong today. The Showing Time Showing Index is a measure of how much buyers are touring homes. The graph
- [U.S. Home Prices Surge in May](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/u-s-home-prices-surge-in-may/) - Home prices surge in May with all 20 Major Metro Markets Highlights May 2023: All major metro markets see month-over-month price increasesYear-over-year: Slight decline in national home prices, but some cities shineRegional Divide: Midwest outperforms, while Pacific coast cities lag behind Overview S&P Dow Jones Indices has just released the latest results for the S&P
- [Today's Mortgage Rates](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/todays-mortgage-rates/) - After spiking a bit toward the end of last week, mortgage rates are back down. Currently, 30-year mortgage rates are around 9 basis points lower compared to last week's average. They could trend down further later this week. This will depend on the commentary that comes out of the latest Federal Reserve meeting. Lower mortgage
- [Gardening Tasks](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/gardening-tasks/) - Three gardening tasks to tackle this month to get ready for fall Here are the major tasks to tackle in July. Mow your strawberries Strawberries season was short this year, but now that it's over, you can put your bed to bed. With strawberries, you can run your lawnmower over them to give them the
- [Owning Your Home Helps You Build Wealth](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/owning-your-home-helps-you-build-wealth/) - You may have heard some peope say it's better to rent than buy a home right now. But, even today, there are lots of good reasons to become a homeowner. One of them is that owning a home is typically viewed as a good long term investment that helps your net worth grow over time..
- [Home Prices Are Rebounding](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/home-prices-are-rebounding/) - If you are following the news today, you may feel a bit unsure about what's happening with home prices and fear whether or not the worst is yet to come. That's because today's headlines are painting an unnecessarily negative picture. If we take a year-over-year view, home prices did drop some, but that's because we
- [How Remote Work Expands Your Homebuying Horizons](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/how-remote-work-expands-your-homebuying-horizons/) - Even as some companies transition back into the office, remote work remains a popular choice for many professionals. So, if you currently enjoy working from home or hope to be able to soon, you are not alone. According to a recent survey, most working professionals want to work either fully remote or hybrid. This trend
- [Renting or Selling Your House](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/renting-or-selling-your-house/) - What's the Best Move? If you're a homeowner ready to make a move, you may be thinking about using your current house as a short-term rental property instead of selling it. A short-term rental is typically offered as an alternative to a hotel. They are an investment that's gained popularity in recent years. A short-term
- [Momentum is Building for New Home Construction](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/momentum-is-building-for-new-home-construction/) - If you are in the process of looking for a home today, you know the supply of homes for sale is low because you are feeling the impact of having a limited pool of options. And, if your biggest hurdle right now is that you are having trouble finding something you like, don't forget that
- [Today's Housing Inventory Is a Sweet Spot for Sellers](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/todays-housing-inventory-is-a-sweet-spot-for-sellers/) - Housing Market One of the biggest challenges in the housing market right now is how few homes there are for sale compared to the number of people who want to buy them. To help emphasize just how limited housing inventory still is, let's look at the latest information on active listings, or homes for sale
- [Lending Standards Are Not Like They Were Leading Up to the Crash](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/lending-standards-are-not-like-they-were-leading-up-to-the-crash/) - You might be worried we're heading for a housing crash, but there are many reasons why this housing market isn't like the one we saw in 2008. One of which is how lending standards are different today. Here's a look at the data to help prove it. Every month, the Mortgage Bankers Association releases the
- [The True Cost of Selling Your House on Your Own](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/the-true-cost-of-selling-your-house-on-your-own/) - Selling your house is no simple task. While some homeowners opt to sell their homes on their own, known as FSBO (For Sale by Owner), they often encounter various challenges without the guidance of a real estate agent. If you are currently considering selling your house on your own, here's what you should know. When
- [Energy Efficient Homes](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/energy-efficient-homes/) - Eco-Friendly, Energy-Efficient Homes Attract Buyers Are you planning to sell your house? If so, you may be surprised to hear just how much buyers value energy efficient and eco-friendly features today. This is especially true as summer officially kicks off. In fact, the 2023 Realtors and Sustainability Report from the National Association of Realtors shows
- [Down Payment](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/down-payment/) - Saving for a Down Payment? Here's What You Need To Know If you are planning to buy your first home, then you are probably focused on saving for all the costs involved in such a big purchase. One of the expenses that may be at the top of your mind is your down payment. If
- [Buying or Selling a Home](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/buying-or-selling-a-home/) - Why Buying or Selling a Home Helps the Economy and Your Community. If you're thinking about buying or selling a house, it's important to know that it doesn't just affect your life, but also your community. The chart below shows how much economic activity is generated by homes sales and it's impact. As the visual
- [Stink Bugs](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/stink-bugs/) - What To Do BEFORE They Devour Fruit Trees & Gardens Brown marmorated stink bugs are on the move in gardens in Connecticut, though you may see the damage left behind by the shield-shapped menace until July or August. Stink bugs' preferred diet comes from fruit orchards, ornamental trees and garden vegetables like tomatoes, peppers and
- [How to Clean Grease & Oil Stains From Your Concrete](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/how-to-clean-grease-oil-stains-from-your-concrete/) - You can clean up stains from things like motor oil and get your concrete back to like-new condition. An unblemished concrete patio, driveway, or walkway can feel like a magnet for leaking vechicles and spilled oil, which will pentrate the porous surface of a concrete and leave a lasting stain. That is, if you let
- [Connecticut Chocolate Trail](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/connecticut-chocolate-trail/) - Connecticut's Sweet Spots: CT Chocolate Trail They say there is nothing better than a good friend, except, perhaps a good friend with chocolate. So, grab a partner, and treat the chocolate lover in your life (or yourself) to an unforgettable tasting trip throughout the state. This Connecticut Chocolate Trail will indulge all of your senses.
- [Vacationer's Guide to Protect Your Home](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/vacationers-guide-to-protect-your-home/) - Actually relax on vacation!! When you are away on a nice, relaxing vacation, you may find your thoughts are disrupted by the home you left behind. Did I leave the door unlocked? I hope the basement isn't flooding. Did that package arrive, and is it just sitting there on my front steps for anyone to
- [The Real Estate Market Is Strong](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/the-real-estate-market-is-strong/) - This Real Estate Market is the Strongest of Our Lifetime! When you look at the numbers today, the one thing that stands out is the strength of this housing market. We can see this is one of the most foundationally strong housing markets of our lifetime. Maybe the strongest. Here are two fundamentals that prove
- [Use Your Local Extension Office](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/use-your-local-extension-office/) - Everything You Should Be Using Your Local Extension Office for (but Aren't) Get expert information on gardening, food, conservation, urban agricullture, rabbit-raising, and more. If you grew up on a farm, participated in 40H,, or wenet to a land-grant university, you are probably already aware of what a rich resource your county extension office is
- [How to Care for Your Septic System](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/how-to-care-for-your-septic-system/) - Septic system maintenance is not complicated, and it does not need to be expensive. Upkeep comes down to four key elements: Inspect and pump frequentlyUse water efficientlyProperly dispose of wasteMaintain your drainfield Inspect and Pump Frequently The average household septic system should be inspected at least every three years by a septic service professional. Household
- [Main Reason Mortgage Rates Are So High](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/main-reason-mortgage-rates-are-so-high/) - Today's mortgage rates are top-of-mind for many homebuyers right now. As a result, if you are thinking about buying for the first time or selling your current house to move into a home that better fits your needs, you may be asking yourself these two questions: Why Are Mortgage Rates So High?When Will Rates Go
- [The True Value of Homeownership](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/the-true-value-of-homeownership/) - Buying and owning your home can make a big difference in your life by bringing you joy and a sense of belonging. And with June being National Homeownership Month, it's the perfect time to think about all the benefits homeownership provides. Of course, there are financial reasons to buy a house, but it's important to
- [Today's Real Estate Market](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/todays-real-estate-market/) - The 'Unicorns' Have Galloped Off Comparing real estate metrics from one year to another can be challenging in a normal housing market. That's due to possible variability in the market making the comparison less meaningful or accurate. Unpredictable events can have a significant impact on the circumstances and outcomes being compared. Comparing this year's numbers
- [Benefits of Selling Now](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/benefits-of-selling-now/) - According to Experts Selling Now Has It's Benefits If you are trying to decide if now is the time to sell your house, here's what you should know. The limited number of homes available right now gives you a big advantage. That's because there are more buyers out there than there are homes for sale.
- [Household Hazardous Waste](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/household-hazardous-waste/) - Household Hazardous Waste Drop-Off Event For the towns of: Bethel, Bridgewater, Brookfield, Danbury, Kent, New Fairfield,, New Milford, Newtown, Redding, Ridgefieldd, Roxbury, Sherman, Weston, Wilton Saturday, June 3rd, 2023 9:00am to 1:00pm Bethel High School - 300 Whittlesey Drive, Bethel For more information on what to drop off and what not to drop off go
- [Why Buyers Need an Expert Agent by Their Side](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/why-buyers-need-an-expert-agent-by-their-side/) - The Process of Buying a Home The process of buying a home can feel a bit intimidating, even under normal circumstances. But today's market is still anything but normal. There continues to be a very limited number of homes for sale, and that's creating bidding wars and driving home prices back up as buyers compete
- [The Impact of Changing Mortgage Rates](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/the-impact-of-changing-mortgage-rates/) - Some Highlights If you are looking to buy a home, you should know even a small change in mortgage rates has an impact on your purchasing powerThese charts show how rates generally affect your monthly paymentThe best way to navigate changing mortgage rates and make an informed buying decision is to rely on the expertise
- [What You Need To Know About Home Price News](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/what-you-need-to-know-about-home-price-news/) - The National Association of Realtors will release its latest Existing Home Sales Report tomorrow. The information it contains on home prices may cause some confusion and could even generate some troubling headlines. This all stems from the fact that NAR will report the median sales price, while other home price indices report repeat sales prices.
- [Home Price Declines are Behind Us!](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/home-price-declines-are-behind-us/) - If you're following the news today, you may feel a bit unsure about what's happening with home prices and fear whether or not the worst is yet to come. That's because today's headlines are painting an unnecessarily negative picture. Contrary to those headlines, home prices aren't in a freefall. The latest data tells a very
- [Heat-Tolerant Plants](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/heat-tolerant-plants/) - Choose from these top heat-tolerant plants for your summer flower garden. Blanket Flower: The brilliant hues of the native North American blanket flower have a place in any garden. Blanket flower thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Celosia: These fiery, heat-tolerant plants thrive in scorching summer weather. It will grow well in a wide
- [Use Coffee Grounds](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/use-coffee-grounds/) - 4 Ways to Use Coffee Grounds in the Garden Once you've enjoyed your morning brew, consider putting the coffee grounds in your garden. These four ideas for recycling coffee grounds keep a valuable resource out of the landfill and your precious plants will reap the benefits. 1. Add Coffee Grounds to Compost Dump the daily
- [Sell Your House](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/sell-your-house/) - The Best Time to Sell Your House is When Others Aren't Selling If you're thinking about selling your house, you should know the number of homes for sale right now is low. That's because, this season, there are fewer sellers listing their houses for sale than the norm. Looking back at every April since 2017,
- [Why Today's Housing Market Is Not About To Crash!!](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/why-todays-housing-market-is-not-about-to-crash/) - There's been some concern lately that the housing market is headed for a crash. And given some of the affordability challenges in the housing market, along with a lot of recession talk in the media, it's easy enough to understand why that worry has come up. But the data clearly shows today's market is very
- [Buyer Activity Is Up!](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/buyer-activity-is-up/) - Buyer activity is up despite higher mortgage rates If you're a homeowner thinking about making a move, you may wonder if it's still a good time to sell your house. Here's the good news. Even with higher mortgage rates, buyer traffic is actually picking up speed. Data from the latest ShowingTime Showing Index, which is
- [Four Things to Haggle Over When Buying a Home](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/four-things-to-haggle-over-when-buying-a-home/) - Home buyers can reduce their expenses by negotiating on more than just the price! Home buyers might have better luck saving thousands of dollars by focusing their haggling skills on items other than the home's purchase price. The price of the home is a major detail, especially as mortgage rates move up. But given that
- [The Housing Market Has Cooled, But It's Not Frozen!](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/the-housing-market-has-cooled-but-its-not-frozen/) - Let's say you would like to move but you're handcuffed to your house by a low mortgage rate. If you move now, you'll have to pay a much higher interest rate on your next home loan. Sound familiar? It's a situation that millions of Americans find themselves in. This chart shows the opening of a
- [Leverage Your Equity When You Sell Your House](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/leverage-your-equity-when-you-sell-your-house/) - One of the benefits of being a homeowner is that you build equity over time. By selling your house, that equity can be used toward purchasing your next home. But before you can put it to use, you should understand exactly what equity is and how it grows. "Home equity is the portion of your
- [Millennials Are Buying Homes](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/millennials-are-buying-homes/) - Five Reasons Millennials Are Buying Homes In the United States, there are over 72 million millennials. If you are part of that generation and have thought about buying a home, you aren't alone. According to Zonda, 98% of millennials want to become a homeowner at some point if they aren't already. Why? There are plenty
- [Home Inspection vs Appraisal](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/home-inspection-vs-appraisal/) - What's the Difference Between a Home Inspection and an Appraisal? If you're planning to buy a home, an inspection is an important step in the process. It assesses the condition of the home before you finalize the transaction. An appraisal is a professional evaluation of the market value of the home you'd like to buy.
- [An Expert Gives You Clarity in Today's Housing Market](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/an-expert-gives-you-clarity-in-todays-housing-market/) - Ben Keeney * RE/MAX Right Choice * 203-313-0013 The housing market has been going through shifts lately. That's why it's so important to work with a professional who can be your guide throughout the process. I will give you the best advice on what's really happening with home prices, housing supply, and expert projections. I
- [Balancing Your Wants and Needs](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/balancing-your-wants-and-needs/) - Balancing your wants and needs as a homebuyer this spring! Though there are more homes for sale now than there were at this time last year, there's still an undersupply with fewer houses available than in more normal, pre-pandemic years. The Monthly Market Trends Report from realtor.com puts it this way: "While the number of
- [Birding in Connecticut](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/birding-in-connecticut/) - Want to try something new? Birding might be just what you are looking for. It's a fun activity for all ages to enjoy and learn about all different kinds of bird species and the habitats they live in. Here are a few suggestions for bird viewing locations: Windsor Locks Canal Trail The canal is an
- [Your Tax Refund](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/your-tax-refund/) - Your Tax Refund Can Help You Achieve Your Homebuying Goals Have you been saving up to buy a home this year? If so, you know there are a variety of expenses involved - from your down payment to closing costs. But there's good news. Yout tax refund can help you achieve your goals by paying
- [Homebuyer Activity Shows Signs of Warming Up for SPRING](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/homebuyer-activity-shows-signs-of-warming-up-for-spring/) - The spring season appears to be warming up in housing as more and more buyers enter the market. And after rising mortgage rates sidelined so many buyers last year, that's a good sign for sellers. "Spring is officially here. New data suggests that more buyers are back in the market." We know buyer activity is
- [Big Advantage If You Sell This Spring](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/big-advantage-if-you-sell-this-spring/) - Thinking about selling your house? If you've been waiting for the right time, it could be now while the supply of homes for sale is so low. "....The big question is whether we are finally starting to see the seasonal spring increase in inventory. The answer is no, because active listings fell to a new
- [Two Reasons You Should Sell Your House](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/two-reasons-you-should-sell-your-house/) - Home in 2023? - Top 2 Reasons Let's break those reasons down and explore how they might resonate with you. 1. I Want To Take Advantage of the Current Market & Make a Profit When you decide to sell your house, how much you'll make from the sale will likely be top of mind. So,
- [Trying To Buy a Home?  Hang in There!](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/trying-to-buy-a-home-hang-in-there/) - We're still in a sellers' market. And if you're looking to buy a home, that means you're likely facing some unique challenges, like difficulty finding a home and volatile mortgage rates. But keep in mind, there are some benefits to being a buyer in today's market that give you good reason to stick with your
- [Invasive Shrubs](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/invasive-shrubs/) - Never plant these invasive shrubs (and what to grow instead!) Exotic invasive shrubs pose a threat to natural areas. The qualities that make them attractive and low maintenance also allow them to survive and spread into the woods and fields. Once there, they outcompete native plants that are vital to the survival of wildlife. Removing
- [Are You Ready to Sell This Spring?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/are-you-ready-to-sell-this-spring/) - Thinking About Selling Your Home? If you're thinking about selling this spring, it's time to get moving. The best week to list your house is fast approaching. Experts at realtor.com looked at seasonal trends from recent years (excluding 2020 as an uncharacteristic year due to the pandemic) and determine the ideal week to list a
- [Buying a Home Is a Sound Decision](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/buying-a-home-is-a-sound-decision/) - Why Buying a Home is a Sound Decision If you are thinking about buying a home, you want to know the decision will be a good one. That means thinking about what home prices are projected to do in the coming years. How will that impact your investment? This year, we aren't seeing home prices
- [How to Clean Bird Baths](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/how-to-clean-bird-baths/) - How to Clean a Bird Bath the Right Way! Offer clean water for your birds. Experts explain the best ways how to clean a bird bath and how to keep algae from growing in the water. A mixture of water and bleach can be an effective cleaning solution. Test a small area first before cleaning
- [Balancing Your Wants & Needs as a Homebuyer this Spring](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/balancing-your-wants-needs-as-a-homebuyer-this-spring/) - Though there are more homes for sale now than there were at this time last year, there's still an undersupply with fewer houses available than normal, pre-pandemic years. The Monthly Housing Market Trends Report from realtor.com puts it this way: "While the number of homes for sale is increasing, it is still 43.2% lower than
- [Connecticut Information](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/connecticut-information/) - Here are a few interesting facts about Connecticut Nickname: The Constitution StateStatehood: 1788, 5th StatePopulation: 3,606,000 (2021)Capitol: HartfordBiggest City: BridgeportAbbreviation: CTState Bird: American Robin Flower: Mountain Laurel The Nutmeg State Early inhabitants had the reputation of being so ingenious and shrewd that they were able to make and sell wooden nutmegs. Originator of this story
- [Leverage Your Equity](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/leverage-your-equity/) - Leverage Your Equity When You Sell Your House! One of the benefits of being a homeowner is that you build equity over time. By selling your house, that equity can be used toward purchasing your next home. But before you can put it to use, you should understand exactly what equity is and how it
- [4 Tips for Making Your Best Offer on a Home](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/4-tips-for-making-your-best-offer-on-a-home/) - Are you planning to buy a home this spring? Though things are more balanced than they were at the height of the pandemic, it's still a seller's market. So, when you find the home you want to buy, remember these four tips to make your best offer. Lean on a Real Estate Professional. I can
- [Is It Better To Rent Than To Own a Home Right Now?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/is-it-better-to-rent-than-to-own-a-home-right-now/) - You may have seen reports in the news recently saying it's better to rent right now than it is to own your home. But before you let that impact your decisions, you should understand what these claims are based on. A lot of the time, these reports are assuming things that aren't realistic for the
- [Equity Gains for Today's Homeowners](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/equity-gains-for-todays-homeowners/) - Today's homeowners are sitting on significant equity, even as home price appreciation has eased recently. If you are a homeowner, your net worth got a boost over the past few years thanks to rising home prices. Here's what it means for you, even as the market moderates. How Equity Has Grown in Recent Years Because
- [An Expert Makes All the Difference](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/an-expert-makes-all-the-difference/) - If you're thinking of selling your house, it's important to work with someone who understands how the market is changing and what it means for you. Here are five reasons working with me will ensure you'll get the most out of your sale. 1. Expert on Market Trends With today's housing market defined by change,
- [2023 Mortgage Rate Projections](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/2023-mortgage-rate-projections/) - Now is the time to renew your plans to purchase your dream home. Inventory is at a low. This could work to your advantage because there may be fewer buyers bidding on homes. Take the time now to ensure you have a favorable credit. Connect with a reliable lender to find out what your options
- [What You Should Know About Rising Mortgages Rates](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/what-you-should-know-about-rising-mortgages-rates/) - After steadily falling over the winter, mortgage rates have started to rise in recent weeks. This is concerning to some potential homebuyers as the combination of higher mortgage rates and higher prices have made homes less affordable. So, if you are planning to purchase a home this year, you too may be wondering if now
- [How to Make Your Dream of Homeownership a Reality](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/how-to-make-your-dream-of-homeownership-a-reality/) - According to a recent Harris Poll survey, 8 in 10 Americans say buying a home is a priority. And, 28 million Americans plan to buy within the next 12 months. Homeownership provides many financial and nonfinancial benefits so that interest is understandable. However, it's unlikely all 28 million Americans will accomplish that goal in the
- [A Smaller Home Could Be Your Best Option](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/a-smaller-home-could-be-your-best-option/) - Many people are reaching the point in their lives when they need to decide where they want to live when they retire. If you are a homeowner approaching this stage, you have several options to explore. "As we see the transition of the large Baby Boomer generation age into retirement, it will be interesting to
- [What You Should Know About Closing Costs](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/what-you-should-know-about-closing-costs/) - Before you buy a home, it's important to plan ahead. While most buyers consider how much they need to save for a down payment, many are surprised by the closing costs they have to pay. It's important to understand what closing costs are and how much you should budget for. What Are Closing Costs? People
- [Homes For Sale Up](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/homes-for-sale-up/) - Number of Homes for Sale UP from Last Year, but Below Pre-Pandemic Years The biggest challenge in the housing market right now is how few homes there are for sale compared to the number of people who want to buy. That's why, if you are thinking about selling your house, this is a great time
- [Today's Housing Market](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/todays-housing-market/) - Why Today's Housing Market Isn't Headed for a Crash 67% of Americans say a housing market crash is imminent in the next three years. With all the talk in the media lately about shifts in the housing market, it makes sense why so many people feel this way. But there is good news. Current data
- [Top Reasons for Selling Your House](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/top-reasons-for-selling-your-house/) - Many of today's homeowners bought or refinanced their homes during the pandemic when mortgage rates were at history-making lows. Since rates doubled in 2022, some of those homeowners put their plans to move on hold. They did not want to lose the low mortgage rate they have on their current house. While today's rates have
- [Should You Rent Your House or Sell It?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/should-you-rent-your-house-or-sell-it/) - If you're a homeowner ready to make a move, you may be thinking about using your current house as a short-term rental property instead of selling it. A short-term rental is typically offered as an alternative to a hotel, and they are an investment that's gained popularity in recent years. According to a Harris Poll
- [Where Will You Go If You Sell?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/where-will-you-go-if-you-sell/) - You Have Options....... There are plenty of good reasons you might be ready to move. No matter your motivations, before you list your current house, you need to consider where you will go next. In today's market, it makes sense to explore all your options. That includes homes that have been lived in before as
- [Birds will Love these Seed Bearing Plants](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/birds-will-love-these-seed-bearing-plants/) - Keep these seed bearing plants standing in your garden all winter long. The birds will thank you for the extra food source. Don't cut back these seed bearing plants So you didn't get around to cleaning out those flower beds this fall? Now you can justify it. Not only is it good for your plants,
- [Why It Makes Sense To Move Before Spring](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/why-it-makes-sense-to-move-before-spring/) - Spring is usually the busiest season in the housing market. Many buyers wait until then to make their move. They believe it's the best time to find a home. However, that isn't always the case. You need to factor in the competition you could face with other buyers at that time of the year. If
- [Want To Sell Your House?  Price It Right!](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/want-to-sell-your-house-price-it-right/) - Last year, the housing market slowed down in response to higher mortgage rates which impacted home prices. If you are thinking of selling your house soon, that means you will want to adjust your expectations accordingly. In a more moderate market, how you price your house will make a difference to not only your bottom
- [Have Home Values Hit Bottom?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/have-home-values-hit-bottom/) - Whether you are already a homeowner or you are looking to become one, the recent headlines about home prices may leave you with more questions than answers. News stories are talking about home prices falling, and that's raising concerns about a repeat of what happened to prices in the crash in 2008. One of the
- [Pre-Approval in 2023](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/pre-approval-in-2023/) - What You Need To Know One of the first steps in your homebuyers journey is getting pre-approved. To understand why it's such an important step, you need to understand what pre-approval is and what it does for you. In a pre-approval, the lender tells you what types of loans you may be eligible to take
- [What Past Recessions Tell Us About the Housing Market](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/what-past-recessions-tell-us-about-the-housing-market/) - It doesn't matter if you are someone who closely follows the economy or not, chances are you've heard whispers of an upcoming recession. Economic conditions are determined by a broad range of factors, so rather than explaining them each in depth, let's lean on the experts and what history tells us to see what could
- [Think Twice Before Waiting for 3% Mortgage Rates](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/think-twice-before-waiting-for-3-mortgage-rates/) - Last year, the Federal Reserve took action to try to bring down inflation. In response to those efforts, mortgage rates jumped up rapidly from the record lows we saw in 2021, peaking at just over 7% last October. Hopeful buyers experienced a hit to their purchasing power as a result. Some decided to put a
- [The Truth About Negative Home Equity Headlines](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/the-truth-about-negative-home-equity-headlines/) - Home equity has been a hot topic in the real estate news lately. If you have been following along, you may have heard there's a growing number of homeowners with negative equity. But don't let those headlines scare you. In truth, the headlines don't give you all the information you really need to understand what's
- [Is It Time To Sell Your Second Home?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/is-it-time-to-sell-your-second-home/) - During the pandemic, second homes became popular because of the rise in work-from-home flexibility. That's because owning a second home, especially in the luxury market, allowed those homeowners to spend more time in their favorite places or with different home features. Keep in mind, a luxury home isn't only defined by price. In a recent
- [How to Use Vining Plants](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/how-to-use-vining-plants/) - Easy ways to use vining plants in your garden Often overlooked, these twisting and vining plants are an incredible asset, providing shelter for wildlife, vertical color and even a bit of privacy. But, they are often misunderstood. One little known fact is wildlife welcomes vines. Flowering species yield nectar for pollinators, and some produce edible
- [What Are Your Goals in the Housing Market This Year?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/what-are-your-goals-in-the-housing-market-this-year/) - If buying or selling a home is part of your dreams for 2023, it's essential for you to understand today's housing market, define your goals, and work with a trusted real estate agent to bring your homeownership vision for the new year into focus. In the last year, high inflation had a big impact on
- [Wondering How Much You Need to Save for a Down Payment?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/wondering-how-much-you-need-to-save-for-a-down-payment/) - If you're getting ready to buy your first home, you're likely focused on saving up for everything that purchase involves. One cost that's likely top of mind is your down payment. But don't let a common misconception about how much you need to save make the process harder than it could be. Understand 20% Isn't
- [Planning To Sell Your House?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/planning-to-sell-your-house/) - It's Critical To Hire a Pro With higher mortgage rates and moderating buyer demand, conditions in the housing market are different today. And if you are thinking of selling your house it's important to understand how the market has changed and what that means for you. The best way to make sure you are in
- [Housing Market in 2023](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/housing-market-in-2023/) - What to Expect The 2022 housing market has been defined by two key things: inflation and rapidly rising mortgage rates. And, in many ways, it's put the market into a reset position. As the Federal Reserve made moves this year to try to lower inflation, mortgage rates more than doubled. This had a cascading impact
- [Deadly Mistakes Buyers Make](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/deadly-mistakes-buyers-make/) - 10 Deadly Mistakes buyers make when purchasing a home Making an offer on a home without being prequalified. Prequalification will make your life easier so take the time to speak with a lender. A lenders specific questions in regard to income, debt, etc. will help you determine the price range you can afford. It is
- [What Makes a House a Home?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/what-makes-a-house-a-home/) - There is no denying the long term financial benefits of owning a home, but today's housing market may have you wondering if now is still the time to buy. While the financial aspects of buying a home are important, the non-financial and emotional reasons are too. HOME means something different to all of us. Whether
- [Mortgage Rates Are Dropping](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/mortgage-rates-are-dropping/) - What Does That Mean For You? Mortgage rates have been a hot topic in the housing market over the past 12 months. Compared to the beginning of 2022, rates have risen dramatically. Now they're dropping, and that has to do with everything happening in the economy. So, what does that mean for your homeownership plans?
- [2023 Housing Market Forecast](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/2023-housing-market-forecast/)
- [Property Revaluation](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/property-revaluation/) - All real estate owners should have received their revaluation notice. Please contact your local Assessor's office should you have questions or require additional information. "A revaluation program is undertaken to secure a more equitable distribution of the tax burden, to bring the assessment level up to date, and to modernize assessment procedures. Furthermore, Connecticut law
- [What Every Seller Should Know About Home Prices](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/what-every-seller-should-know-about-home-prices/) - If you're trying to decide whether or not to sell your house, recent headlines about home prices may be top of mind. And if those stories have you wondering what that means for your home's value, here is what you really need to know. What's Really Happening with Home Prices? It's possible you have seen
- [Homeownership Investment](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/homeownership-investment/) - Homeownership Is an Investment in Your Future There are many people thinking about buying a home, but with everything affecting the economy some are wondering if it's a smart decision to buy now or if it makes more sense to wait it out. If you are in that position, remember that it's important to consider
- [Preventing Bird Strikes on Windows](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/preventing-bird-strikes-on-windows/) - We know sometimes birds hit windows, and it's much worse during migration. Here are a few simple things you can do to stop window strikes. Unfortunately, sometimes birds run into windows. It can be much worse during spring and fall migration. It's never fun to see our feathered friends suffering after these window strikes. Luckily
- [Use Your Home Equity](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/use-your-home-equity/) - If you're a homeowner, odds are your equity has grown significantly over the last few years as home prices skyrocketed and you made your monthly mortgage payments Home equity builds over time. It can help you achieve certain goals. According to the latest Equity Insights Report from CoreLogic, the average borrower with a home loan
- [What Homeowners Want to Know About Selling in Today's Market](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/what-homeowners-want-to-know-about-selling-in-todays-market/) - What homeowners want to know If you're thinking about selling your house, you're likely hearing about the cooling housing market and wondering what that means for you. While it's not the peak intensity we saw during the pandemic, we're still in a seller's market. That means you haven't missed your window. This is still a
- [Mortgage Rates Will Come Down](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/mortgage-rates-will-come-down/) - Yes, Mortgage Rates Will Come Down, It's Just a Matter of Time This past year, rising mortgage rates have slowed the red hot housing market. Over the past nine months we've seen fewer homes sold than the previous month as home price growth has slowed. All of this is due to the fact that the
- [Prequalified Mortgage](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/prequalified-mortgage/) - Why You Should Get Prequalified for a Mortgage How does qualifying for a mortgage work? Mortgage prequalification is the first step in determining how much money a potential homebuyer can spend on a new house. During the process, a financial institution will review an applicant's pertinent financial information. This includes credit, income and assets, and
- [Selling Your Home This Winter](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/selling-your-home-this-winter/) - There's no denying the housing market is undergoing a shift this season, and that may leave you with some questions about whether it still makes sense to sell your house. Here are three of the top questions you may be asking so you can make a confident decision. Should I Wait To Sell? Even though
- [Loans for Veterans](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/loans-for-veterans/) - VA Loans Can Help Veterans Achieve Their Dream of Homeownership For over 78 years, Veterans Affairs home loans have provided millions of veterans with the opportunity to purchase homes of their own. If you or a loved one have served, it's important to understand this program and its benefits. What Are VA Loans? VA helps
- [Stolen Catalytic Converters](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/stolen-catalytic-converters/) - Catalytic converter theft is skyrocketing across the country. Here's why thieves are after these valuable car parts and what you can do to prevent yours from getting stolen. You've probably heard the term "catalytic converter" recently. Unfortunately, it's likely for all the wrong reasons. Theft of this important car part has skyrocketed in the last
- [Sell Your House Before the Holidays](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/sell-your-house-before-the-holidays/) - As you look ahead to the winter season, you're likely making plans and thinking about what you want to achieve before the year ends. One of those key decision points could be whether or not you want to move this year. If the location or size of your current home no longer meets your needs,
- [New vs. Existing](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/new-vs-existing/) - Pros and Cons New Home Construction Pros: *Modern floor plan (open sapce, flex rooms, larger windows) *Delayed major maintenance costs (such as roof or HVAC) *Lower utility bills as a result of stricter building codes and newer energy efficient products *More upfront personalization Builder warranties on materials, workmanship and structural items Cons: *Higher upfront costs
- [Pre-Approval is a Critical First Step on Your Homebuying Journey](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/pre-approval-is-a-critical-first-step-on-your-homebuying-journey/) - If you're planning to buy a home this year, one of the first steps on your journey is getting pre-approved. In today's market when mortgage rates are higher than they were just a few months ago, getting a mortgage pre-approval can be a game changer. Here's why. What Is Pre-Approval? A mortgage pre-approval is when
- [Tree Diseases](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tree-diseases/) - Anthracnose Anthracnose is a common disease among deciduous trees, especially sycamore, ash and oak. It also affects shrubs such as privet. The disease is more prevalent during wet, cold springs. It is not a serious tree health threat and doesn't normally require treatment. To prevent anthracnose fungi dispose of leaves and twigs, as well as
- [The Emotional and Non-financial Benefits of Homeownership](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/the-emotional-and-non-financial-benefits-of-homeownership/) - With higher mortgage rates, you might be wondering if now's the best time to buy a home. While the financial aspects are important to consider, there are also powerful non-financial reasons it may make sense to make a move Here are just a few of the benefits that come with homeownership. Homeowners Can Make Their
- [Fall Leaf Colors in Your Yard](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/fall-leaf-colors-in-your-yard/) - Love to look at gorgeous fall leaves? For those longing for a spectacular landscape past the traditional summer display of flowering plants, plenty of options abound. Show stopping trees, seasonal shrubs and fall blooming perennials can bring a burst of autumn color to your yard. All it takes is a little forward thinking and knowledge
- [The Cost of Waiting for Mortgage Rates to go Down](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/the-cost-of-waiting-for-mortgage-rates-to-go-down/) - Mortgage rates have increased significantly in recent weeks. And that may mean you have questions about what this means for you if you're planning to buy a home. Here's some information that can help you make an informed decision when you set your homebuying plans. The Impact of Rising Mortgage Rates As mortgage rates rise,
- [Where to find a Pumpkin Near Newtown](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/where-to-find-a-pumpkin-near-newtown/) - It's that time of year again. Pumpkin products are popping up on shelves and the pumpkin spice latte is back on drink menus nationwide. Maybe you want an actual pumpkin! Are you planning to bake a pie, carve a jack-o'-lantern or just add some festive flair to your front porch? Here are some places to
- [Why You Should Consider Condos as Part of Your Home Search](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/why-you-should-consider-condos-as-part-of-your-home-search/) - The historically low inventory over the past few years led to challenges for many buyers trying to find a home that met their needs and their budget. If you're in the same boat, you should know the recent shift in the housing market may have opened up doors for you to restart your search. The
- [Fall Home Selling Checklist](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/fall-home-selling-checklist/) - When it comes to selling your house, you want it to look it's best inside and out. Any improvements you make will increase the saleability of your home.
- [What Experts Say Will Happen with Home Prices Next Year](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/what-experts-say-will-happen-with-home-prices-next-year/) - Experts are starting to make their 2023 home price forecasts. As they do, most agree homes will continue to gain value, just at a slower pace. Over the past couple of years, home prices have risen at an unsustainable rate, leaving many to wonder how long it would last. If you are asking yourself what's
- [Will My House Still Sell in Today's Market?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/will-my-house-still-sell-in-todays-market/) - If recent headlines about the housing market cooling and buyer demand moderating have you worried you've missed your chance to sell? Here's what you need to know. Buyer demand hasn't disappeared. It's just eased from the peak intensity we saw over the past two years. Buyer Demand Then and Now During the pandemic, mortgage rates
- [Watching the Stock Market?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/watching-the-stock-market/) - Check the Value of Your Home for Good News! While watching the stock market recently may have started to feel pretty challenging, checking the value of your home should come as welcome relief in this volatile time. If you're a homeowner, your net worth got a big boost over the past few years thanks to
- [Did You Know?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/history-of-a-c/) - The History of Air Conditioning Since this year's summer was one of the hottest ever, many of us are best friends with our home's air conditioning. However, it wasn't invented for our comfort. The first air conditioners were built to improve the performance of printing machinery. Willis H. Carrier invented the first air conditioning unit
- [Three Things Buyers Can Do in Today's Housing Market](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/three-things-buyers-can-do-in-todays-housing-market/) - It's clear the 2022 housing market has been defined by rising mortgage rates. With rates on the rise, it's also become more costly to purchase a home. According to the National Association of Realtors, housing affordability conditions fade as mortgage rates push monthly payments higher in June 2022. "Compared to one year ago, the monthly
- [Should I Sell My House This Year?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/should-i-sell-my-house-this-year/) - There's no denying the housing market is undergoing a shift this season. Buyer demand is slowing and the number of homes for sale is growing. But that shift actually gives you some unique benefits when you sell. Here's a look at the key opportunities you have if you list your house this fall. Opportunity #1:
- [How Owning a Home Builds Your Net Worth](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/how-owning-a-home-builds-your-net-worth-2/) - Owning a home is a major financial milestone and an achievement to take pride in. One major reason: the equity you build as a homeowner gives your net worth a big boost. And with high inflation right now, the link between owning your home and building your wealth is especially important. If you’re looking to increase your financial security, here’s
- [Time to go RVing!](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/time-to-go-rving/) - Exploring Connecticut's Scenic Northeast Northeastern Connecticut has always been a popular destination for RV exploration and is home to some of the best RV parks and campgrounds around. Nearby activities include hiking, fishing, kayaking, swimming and best of all, just plain old relaxing! The pandemic has greatly increased the popularity of RV travel, with more
- [Start Your Home Search Today](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/start-your-home-search-today/) - Why You May Want to Start Your Home Search Today If you're thinking about buying a home you likely have a lot of factors on your mind. You're weighing your own needs against higher mortgage rates, today's home prices, and more to try to decide if you want to jump into the market. While some
- [Fall Fun in CT](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/fall-fun-in-ct/) - Popular Biking and Hiking Trails in Connecticut Connecticut offers many biking and hiking trails so get out and explore them.. And, get some exercise too! Here are a few suggestions for you. Dinosaur State Park, Rocky Hill. The park features free parking, an exhibit center, bathrooms and picnic tables. If you like dinosaurs, you'll love
- [Fall Cleanup](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/fall-cleanup/) - Fall cleanup chores are more important than others to keep your yard and gardens looking fantastic. They also set yourself up for success through winter and spring. Here are a few tasks never to skip: 1. Take Care of Garden Tools Clean all your garden tools thoroughly. It's also a good time to organize them
- [Planning to Retire?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/planning-to-retire/) - Your Equity Can Help You Reach Your Goal! Whether you have just retired or you are thinking about retirement, you may be considering your options and trying to picture a whole new stage of your life. And you are not alone. Research from the Retirement Industry Trust Association shows 10,000 baby boomers reach the typical
- [Fall Foliage](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/fall-foliage/) - National Forests with Breathtaking Fall Foliage Immerse yourself in the autumn beauty of national forests, from the White Mountains in New Hampshire to the rugged peaks of Colorado. White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire Take a scenic drive through a sea of hardwoods in autumn as colors change from yellow to orange to red and
- [Buying vs Renting](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/buying-vs-renting/) - Buying a Home May Make More Financial Sense than Renting One If rising home prices leave you wondering if it makes more sense to rent or buy a home in today's housing market, consider this. It's not just home prices that have risen in recent years - rental prices have skyrocketed as well. Rising prices
- [Why Are People Moving Today?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/why-are-people-moving-today/) - Buying a home is a major life decision. That's true whether you are purchasing for the first time or selling your house to fuel a move. And, if you are planning to buy a home, you might be hearing about today's shifting market and wondering what it means for you. While mortgage rates are higher
- [PRE-QUALIFIED vs PRE-APPROVED](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/pre-qualified-vs-pre-approved/) - WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE? Pre-Qualified vs Pre-Approved: An Overview To purchase a property buyers need to pre-qualify or be pre-approved for a mortgage. Some people use the terms interchangeably. But there are important differences. Pre-qualifying is just the first step because It gives you an idea of how large a loan you will likely qualify for.
- [Garden Bugs](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/garden-bugs/) - Eight Bugs You Should Never Kill in Your Garden! No one likes bugs. Well, unless you are an entomologist! Not all bugs are created equal, especially when it comes to those that live in the garden. Some pollinate the crops or feed on destructive pests, while others are simply passing through. Here are eight bugs
- [Garden Weeds](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/garden-weeds/) - Identifying Weeds in Your Garden Not sure how to tell the good from the bad when identifying weeds in your garden? Is it a weed or a flower? The truth is we all face the dilemma of identifying weeds in the garden. When plants start sprouting in spring, all those tiny leaves seem to look
- [American Dream](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/american-dream/) - Is Home Ownership Still the American Dream? Defining the American dream is personal, and no one individual will have the same definition as another. But the feelings it brings about - success, freedom, and a sensse of prosperity - are universal. That's why homeownership remains a key part of the Amerrican dream. Your home is
- [Homeownership](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/homeownership/) - Homeownership Could Be in Reach with Down Payment Assistance Programs A recent survey from Bankrate asks prospective buyers to identify the biggest obstacles in their homebuying journey. It found that 37% of those polled said saving for a down payment. If you feel the same way, the good news is there are many down payment
- [Homebuyers](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/homebuyers/) - A Key Opportunity for Homebuyers There's no denying the housing market has delivered a fair share of challenges to homebuyers over the past two years. A limited number of homes for sale and bidding wars. But those two things have reached a turning point. The number of homes for sale has increased this year. This
- [Praying Mantises](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/praying-mantises/) - Do Praying Mantises Kill Hummingbirds? Have you seen a praying mantis on your plants for feeders? Does it keep coming back? A large mantis is fully capable of catching and eating hummingbirds, so this is a serious situation. Once an individual mantis develops a fixation on your feeder, it may come back repeatedly to try
- [Historic Gardens](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/historic-gardens/) - Connecticut's Historic Gardens are a group of 15 distinctive historic sites and gardens dotted throughout the state. The sites and gardens offer visitors an opportunity to explore a variety of garden styles and time periods. And, visitors can learn about gardens ranging from colonial-period herb gardens to elaborate Colonial Revival-era gardens. Take some time with
- [Time to Sell](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/time-to-sell/) - A Majority of Consumers Say It's a Good Time To Sell Your House If you are a homeowner thinking about selling your house, you are probably looking for the best time to make your move. That means you are likely balancing a number of factors, like your changing needs, where you will go when you
- [INVESTMENT](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/investment/) - More Americans Choose Real Estate as the Best Investment than Ever Before Americans' opinion on the value of real estate as an investment is climbing. That's according to an annual survey from Gallup. Not only is real estate viewed as the best investment for the ninth year in a row, but more Americans selected it
- [Summer](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/summer/) - Connecticut's summer bucket list for 2022 Memorial Day is the unofficial start of summer, which means the season of outdoor dining, day trips and festivals is upon us. There are many Connecticut summer activities to do every year. Whether it's the Norwalk Oyster Festival or visiting one of the state's more than 40 music venues
- [A Recession?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/a-recession/) - The One Thing Every Homeowner Needs to Know About a Recession A recession does not equal a housing crisis. That's the one thing that every homeowner today needs to know. Everywhere you look, experts are warning we could be heading toward a recession, and if true, an economic slowdown doesn't mean homes will lose value.
- [Home Benefits](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/home-benefits/) - How Buying or Selling a Home Benefits the Economy and Your Community Are you thinking of buying or selling a home? Chances are you are focusing on the many extraordinary ways it will change your life. But, do you know it has a large impact on your community too? To measure the impact, the National
- [Landscaping](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/landscaping/) - Low Maintenance Landscaping Ideas for Your Yard If you want a beautiful yard without a lot of fuss, here are six low maintenance landscaping tips that will keep your yard looking great with minimal effort. Use Drought Tolerant Plants Watering restrictions are a reality in many areas, and it makes sense to reduce watering chores
- [Seller's Market](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/sellers-market/) - What you need to know about selling in a Seller's Market Even if you haven't been following real estate news, you've likely heard about the current sellers' market. That's because there's a lot of talk about how strong market conditions are for people who want to sell their houses. But if you're thinking about listing
- [Bird Pecking](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/bird-pecking/) - Why is a BIRD pecking at my window and car mirror? How do I make a bird stop pecking on my window? When a bird begins doing this, it has mistaken its own reflection for another bird. It is trying to drive it away. Some individuals become obsessed with these phantom rivals and may attack
- [Rising Mortgage Rates](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/rising-mortgage-rates/) - How to approach rising mortgage rates as a buyer In the last few weeks, the average 30 year fixed mortgage rate inched up to 5%. While that news may have you questioning the timing of your home search, the truth is, timing has never been more important. You may be tempted to put your plans
- [Housing Market](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/housing-market/) - Is it enough to offer asking price in today's market? Thinking of buying a home this season? What do you need to do to get your offer accepted? In previous years, it was common for buyers to try and determine how much less than the asking price they could offer to still get the home.
- [Homebuying](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/homebuying/) - Nearly 75% of Americans Are Confused by Closing Costs, Preapproval or Other Homebuying Steps Here's a Helpful Cheat Sheet Most likely, unless you have already purchased a home or work in real estate, you don't feel like you know enough about what it takes to buy a house. At least, that's the norm for many
- [Spring is Here](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/spring-is-here/) - When the snow and ice finally thaw and things start to turn green again, that's a perfect time to explore Connecticut. Walk the shoreline or head for the hills, Connecticut offers many spring activities. Spring Festivals, Flowers and Family Fun Celebrate springtime and the warmer weather with a visit to one of the state's many
- [Home Buying](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/home-buying/) - What You Need to Budget for When Buying a Home When it comes to buying a home, it can feel a bit intimidating to know how much you need to save and where to find that information. But you should know, you're not expected to have all the answers yourself. I will help you understand
- [Spring Move?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/spring-move/) - On the Fence of Whether or Not to Move This Spring? Consider this if you are thinking of selling your house. Because you've heard prices are rising, listings are going fast, and seller's are getting multiple offers on their homes is it time? Why are conditions so good for sellers today? And, what can you
- [Interest Rates](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/interest-rates-2/) - Mortgage interest rates hit 5% for the first ime in a decade After falling to historic lows last year, mortgage rates are rising sharply. On April 5, they hit their highest point in more than a decade with the average interest rate for a 30 year fixed rate mortgage topping 5%, up from 3% just
- [Vacation Home](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/vacation-home/) - Should you Buy a Vacation Home Before a Starter Home? At the height of the pandemic, a millennial packed up his family of four in Brooklyn and sought refuge in upstate New York. Buying property was no small investment. Cities were largely shut down. Rural prices seemed attractive. Housing in Brooklyn was out of sight.
- [Home Pricing](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/home-pricing/) - Future of Home Price Appreciation and What It Means to YOU Many consumers are wondering what will happen with home values over the next few years. Some are concerned that the recent run-up in home prices will lead to a situation similar to the housing crash 15 years ago. However, experts say the market is
- [Tax Rules](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tax-rules/) - 3 Tax Rules you need to Know if you Purchased a House Last Year! Buying a house is a big investment Buying a house can come with lots of hidden expenses. Maybe repairs you didn't expect, higher utility costs and homeowner or neighborhood association fees. You can save some money on your taxes by taking
- [Hire a Pro](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/hire-a-pro/) - 10 Home Improvement Projects to leave to the Pros Spring is an ideal time to get started on your home project-to-do list. But, some projects can be too overwhelming to do on your own. Many homeowners find it more time and cost effective to hire a pro. Necessary tools, cleaning supplies and rental equipment may
- [Spring Gardens](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/spring-gardens/) - Welcome to Spring Botanical Gardens to Explore in the area Celebrate the arrival of spring by viewing birds, bees, flowers and butterflies. Nothing says spring quite like the bright colors of blooming flowers, the buzzing of honeybees and fluttering of birds and butterflies. Kick off the season in the fields, greenhouses, aviaries and butterfly houses
- [House Structure](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/house-structure/) - How to tell if a house has "Good Bones" What the term means and how to know if a home has them. Not so recently built homes are often described as having "good bones." This means a strong structure and high level of quality and craftsmanship. Of course, you can't see beneath the paint and
- [Curb Appeal](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/curb-appeal-2/) - Curb appeal is critical Flowers and shrubs are great, butt the accessories you buy for the yard tell a story. They create a vision that prospective buyers fall in love with. Buyers will imagine themselves entertaining friends on summer nights underneath the the bistro lights, or curled up with a drink and a blanket around
- [Moving](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/stress-free-moving/) - Top tips for a stress-free move Moving into a new house or apartment can seem like a daunting task. You've probably accumulated a lot of stuff over the years. The idea of packing everything up can be anough to overwhelm anyone. But if you follow these top moving tips, you can make your next move
- [Prices & Rates](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/prices-rates/) - Housing prices and interest rates aren't going back down! Mortgage rates surged to the highest level in two years, leaving homebuyers on high alert as further increases loom. Things aren't going back down. Now is the time to buy! 30 year fixed mortgage The rate on the 30 year fixed mortgage - the most common
- [Closing Facts](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/closing-facts/) - 5 Closing Facts for Home Purchases What is closing? Closing is the legal transfer of property ownership, also called settlement. Who attends closing? In most states, closings are in person, although remote closings are becoming more common. The participants may include you and your agent, the seller and their agent, and each party's attorney.Where is
- [Hardwood Floors](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/hardwood-floors/) - How to clean your hardwood floors without ruining them! Whether you installed hardwood flooring or inherited it from a previous owner, real hardwood floors can change the feel of an entire space. Whether light or dark colored, wide planks or parquet, hardwood floors are a sought after feature in a home. But actual hardwood floors
- [Winter Birds](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/winter-birds/) - Winter Birds Myths and Facts Do birds get cold? When it comes to winter birds, it seems there are even more myths than usual. Some people worry birds will freeze on cold nights or in bird baths. Myth: Birds will freeze to death when temperatures drop below zero. Fact: Birds are well equipped to survive
- [Woodpeckers](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/woodpeckers/) - Why do woodpeckers peck and how to stop it? While many birds sing to claim their territories, woodpeckers have a different method. Woodpeckers knock on hard surfaces like wood to communicate with others and attract a mate. One bird may drum more than 8,000 times per day, and a downy woodpecker typically strikes 16 times
- [Furniture Removal](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/furniture-removal/) - Use organizations to pick up furniture you want to get rid of Are you wanting to clear out household items without having to leave home? Some people start the new year with the urge to purge their home of clutter and unwanted items. Once you've decided what to get rid of, the issue becomes figuring
- [Winter Bulbs](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/winter-bulbs/) - How to force bulbs indoors during the winter Forcing bulbs is essentially tricking them into thinking spring has arrived. Here's what to know about forcing bulbs. How to force bulbs indoors Essentially the process is similar to the one outdoors, except you are planting the bulbs in pots, and simulating the old, dark winter conditions
- [Outdoor Faucets](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/outdoor-faucets/) - How to keep an outdoor faucet from freezing! Winterize your outdoor plumbing Even though you are probably not using your outdoor faucet or spigot as much during the winter as you do during the summer, that doesn't mean you can just forget about it for the whole season. If your outdoor faucet, pipes, and water
- [Home Value](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/home-value/) - Avoid these renovations that can hurt your home's value What seems like an upgrade to you now may turn potential future buyers off. People purchase and move into new homes for many reasons. It's one thing if the idea is to stay in a house for the rest of your life, but if you think
- [Snowboarding](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/snowboarding/) - Top places to go snowboarding in the Northeast Whether you are a first-timer or a seasoned snowboarder, these destinations offer all the snow-covered fun you need for a memorable trip. The Northeast is full of great places to go snowboarding, from snuggly ski lodges to intense mountain trails. Here are eight places to consider. Whiteface
- [Garden Soil](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/garden-soil/) - How to improve soil quality over the winter When spring arrives, you will be happy you put in the effort now. You have now cleaned up the beds and put the hose and most of your tools away for the season. You may think there's nothing else to do until spring. Not the case. The
- [Fireplaces](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/fireplaces/) - Never burn these items in a fireplace Just a reminder that a fireplace is not an incinerator. It is fireplace season in many areas right now. Time to remember those cozy evenings spent curled up in front of the fireplace. If you hav a wood-burning fireplace, you can't just pop in anything made of wood
- [When to cut back ornamental grasses](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/when-to-cut-back-ornamental-grasses/) - Once you know the basics, it's easy to know when to cut back ornamental grasses. With ornamental grass maintenance is less intensive. Here are some tips on how to be sure they make it through the winter. Watering and fertilizing Many homeowners like ornamental grasses because they are drought tolerant and rarely bothered by pests.
- [Investors](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/investors/) - In a tough home-sales market, investors are winning Rising prices and shrinking inventory have made it difficult to bid successfully on a home. This is frustrating for home buyers. Why? During the third quarter of 2021, investors bought more than 18 percent of the homes sold in the United States. That equates to 90,000 homes
- [Safe Fireplace](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/safe-fireplace/) - How to build a safe fireplace and chimney It's that time of the year when you might be thinking of starting your first indoor fire or wood burning stove. Whether used for heating or for ambiance, fireplaces and wood burning stoves are great amenities. However they need to be properly installed. Data on fires There
- [CT Activities](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/ct-activities/) - Connecticut is one of New England's most popular states. It's southerly location and proximity to New York City make it an easy choice for a day trip or weekend trip to New England. Put the following activities on your bucket list! CT Activities Gillette Castle: Home to Sherlock Holmes and on the list of National
- [Winterize Home](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/winterize-home/) - Winter is coming with cold weather, snow and ice which can cause havoc on your house and property. It is necessary to prepare your house for winter. There are a number of steps you can take to winterize your home. Insurance Policy Review you home insurance policy to make sure you are sufficiently protected from
- [HOME HEATING](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/home-heating/) - Keeping your home heating system maintained As temperatures drop and the weather outside gets a little more frightful, your home should be warm. But ensuring the comfort of a well-heated home on those cold winter days, begins with keeping your heating equipment properly maintained. Here are some tips to keep you warm.... Staying on top
- [Sellers Have Leverage](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/sellers-have-leverage/) - Sellers Have Incredible Leverage in Today's Market With mortgage rates climbing above 3% for the first time in months, serious buyers are more motivated than ever to find a home before the end of the year. "Housing demand remains strong as buyers likely want to secure a home before mortgage rates increase even further next
- [Sellers Win](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/sellers-win/) - When Housing Inventory is Low Sellers Win! In today's housing market, the number of homes for sale is much lower than the strong buyer demand. As a result, homeowners ready to sell have a significant advantage. Here are three ways today's low inventory will set you up for a win when you sell this season.
- [CT Hiking Trails](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/ct-hiking-trails/) - Enjoy Connecticut's natural beauty without the crowds. Skip the overused trails and visit these paths less traveled. Hidden Valley Preserve has 17 miles of low to moderate to high hiking trails. The Thoreau Bridge connects hikers to numerous trails including paths along an old railroad bed, past a former quartz quarry and up to overlooks.
- [Does your House have what buyers want?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/does-your-house-have-what-buyers-want/) - Remote work is here to stay. Many companies are choosing to delay reopening or go remote full-time, and today's buyers are looking for homes with more space to support their work needs. Among employees looking for new jobs, almost one in ten say it's because they moved away from the office while working remotely and
- [Railroad Trail](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/railroad-trail/) - All aboard the Moosup Valley State Park Trail, a hike with railroad history, mud and rocks. There are 38 rail trails covering a total of 221 miles across Connecticut. The trails are a mixture of paved and blue stone gravel. A hike or bike ride along the level railroad beds is an easy and enjoyable
- [Looking to Move?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/looking-to-move/) - It could be time to build your dream home! While today's supply of homes for sale is still low, the number of newly built homes is increasing. If you are ready to sell but have held off because you weren't sure you would be able to find a home to move into, newly built homes
- [Affordable](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/affordable/) - Important Distinction Homes are less affordable, Not Unaffordable! It's impossible to research the subject of buying a home without coming across a headline declaring that the fall in home affordability is a crisis. However, when we add context to the most recent affordability statistics, we soon realize the, though homes are less affordable than they
- [Corn Mazes to Visit](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/corn-mazes/) - Amazing Corn Mazes in Connecticut Corn mazes are a fall tradition in Connecticut. You'll be impressed by the sheer number of mazes in the state and the mind-boggling creativity that goes into building them. Some are daytime mazes with clues and hints. Some let you come back in the dark with a flashlight if you've
- [What do past years tell us about today's Real Estate Market?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/today-vs-past-sales/) - As you follow the news, you're likely seeing headlines discussing what's going on in today's housing market. Chances are high that some of the more recent storylines you've come across mention terms like cooling of slowing wheen talking about where the market is headed. But what do these terms mean? The housing market today is
- [What to Repair Before You List](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/what-to-repair-before-you-list/) - When you're getting ready to list your home, it's important to ensure you are showing it in the best light. Taking time to highlight its strengths and fix up some of its possible weaknesses can make a big difference in how fast it sells. Here are four recommended repairs to make before selling your home.
- [Fall Hiking in CT](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/fall-hiking-in-ct/) - Five Great Hiking Trails in CT Southern New England reaches peak fall foliage in mid-October, which is a great time to hit these beautiful hiking trails in CT. Just a reminder to wear sturdy boots, bring lots of water and be prepared for a change in the weather. Mattabesett & Mt. Higby Trail, Middlefield Distance:
- [If you're a Buyer, Is Offering Asking Price Enough?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/if-youre-a-buyer-is-offering-asking-price-enough/) - In today's real estate market, buyers shouldn't shop for a home with the expectation they will be able to negotiate a lower sales price. In a typical housing market, buyers try to determine how much less than the asking price they can offer and still get the home. From there, the buyer and seller typically
- [Garden Cleanup](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/garden-cleanup/) - Here are 10 autumn garden cleanup tips to reduce problems with pests and diseases while also retaining homes and food for pollinators. 1. Cleaning up vegetable beds Remove all spent crops and residue to prevent havens for pests and disease. Also be sure to weed! 2. Protecting winter crops If you are growing cool season
- [Power Outages](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/power-outages/) - Things To Do Hurrican season is peak time for power outages. Spend your time unplugged in creative, constructive and fun ways. The power can go out for any number of reasons, but the strong winds and downed trees associated with hurrican season are major culprits this time of year. The Atlantic hurrican season lasts from
- [How to Recycle Properly](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/how-to-recycle-properly/) - Are you recycling the right way? Knowing how to recycle common household items takes you one step closer to a cleaner planet. Whether you volunteer to pick up your litter or regularly tackle the clutter in your own part of the world, you may be interested in knowing what items should be thrown out and
- [Understand Your Options to Avoid Foreclosure](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/understand-your-options-to-avoid-foreclosure/) - Even though experts agree there is no chance of a large scale foreclosure crisis, there are a number of homeowners who may be coming face-to-face with foreclosure as a possibility. And while the overall percentage of homeowners at risk is decreasing with time, that's little comfort to those individuals who are facing challenges today. If
- [Higher Valuation of Home Appraisal](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/higher-valuation-of-home-appraisal/) - The process of selling your home is A PROCESS! There's loads of paperwork, along with multiple showings, visits, and inspections. One of these steps is the home appraisal, which is the last chance for the seller to take action to ensure that their home gets the highest valuation possible. Why is this important? It's important
- [Fixes that will get you a Higher Price for your House](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/fixes-that-will-get-you-a-higher-price-for-your-house/) - Ready to sell? These improvements are worth your time and effort! Improve your landscape. Put down fresh sod, replace tired bushes with new ones and add some color, either with flower beds or potted flowers.Spruce up your entryway. Buy a new front door or paint the old one. If your mailbox looks tired, buy and
- [Reasons you should consider selling this fall](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/reasons-you-should-consider-selling-this-fall/) - If you are trying to decide when to sell your house, there may not be a better time to list than right now! Here are four reasons to put your house up for sale sooner rather than later. 1. Your House Will Likely Sell Quickly On average, homes are selling in just 17 days. As
- [Curb Appeal](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/curb-appeal/) - How to kick your curb appeal up a notch! First impressions matter, which is why when attempting to sell your home, curb appeal is so important. Even if you do not anticipate selling your home, it's still a good idea to spruce up your property. Basic good maintenance Sparkling clean windows, light fixtures clean of
- [Trees Down?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tree-damage/) - How to Deal With Trees in a Storm If you have ever watched trees in a storm, you know it can be scary. It's an uncomfortable feeling when uncontrollable forces of nature are at work and all you can do is cross your fingers that a heavy branch or tree won't fall on your home
- [Interest Rates](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/interest-rates/) - What you should do before interest rates rise!!! In today's real estate market, mortgage interest rates are near record lows. If you have been in your current home for several years and haven't refinanced lately, there's a good chance you have a mortgage with an interest rate higher than today's average. Here are some options
- [Rents on the Rise](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/rents-on-the-rise/) - Is Now the Time to Buy? According to recent data from realtor.com, median rental prices have reached their highest point ever recorded in many areas across the country. The report (https://www.realtor.com/research/june-2021-rent) found rents rose by 8.1% from the same time last year. If you are a renter concerned about rising prices, now may be the
- [Buyer Concerns](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/buyer-concerns/) - Today's Biggest Buyer Concerns I'll rent instead. Some may consider renting as the better option; however the monthly cost of renting a home is skyrocketing. So far in 2021, rental prices have grown a staggering 9.2% If you continue to rent, chances are your rent will keep increasing at a fast pace. That means you
- [Northeast Events -- Get Out, Get Some!](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/northeast-events/) - Your favorite events are returning in 2021 With mask mandates easing and the number of Americans getting vaccinated increasing, many of our favorite live events are starting to return. I encourage you to venture out to some of these events. Shakespeare in the Park Shakespeare in the Park has returned in 2021 at the Delacorte
- [Summer hiking fitness](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/summer-hiking-fitness/) - 10 ways to prep for summer hiking Whether you take group fitness classes, enjoy running or walk, hiking can be a great way to change things up and keep your exercise routine interesting. You also have the added benefit of spending more time in nature. Your mood and overall health will improve. Now I'm not
- [Clover lawns](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/clover-lawns/) - Benefits A nitrogen-fixing plant, clover brings nutrients to your soil. You do not need to fertilizeYou do not need to water excessivelyClover tolerates compacted soil better than lawn grassesYou do not need to weed lawn You do not need to mowPlant clover in spring or late summer/early fall What kind of clover is best? White
- [Essential Gardens](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/essential-gardens/) - Connecticut is home to many beautiful blossoms. I have visited many of the historic gardens and found it to be a well worth experience. Bartlett Arboretum - Stamford Bartlett Arboretum is a 93 acre sanctuary. It offers charming gardens, wildflower meadows, red maple wetlands, boardwalk, and woodland hiking trails. Hollister House - Washington Hollister House
- [The Right Expert](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/the-right-expert/) - The right expert will guide you through this unprecedented market. In a normal market, it's good to have an experienced guide coaching you through the process of buying or selling a home. That person can advise you on important things like pricing your home correctly or the first steps to take when you're ready to
- [Driveway Options](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/driveway-options/) - Repaving or building from scratch Whether you are repaving your driveway or building one from scratch, selecting the right material is crucial. There are a handful of options to choose from, and each has its pros and cons with respect to price, durability, and asthetics. Pros and Cons of materials Asphalt driveway - Pros Ease
- [Swimming pool values](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/swimming-pool-values/) - In the age of coronavirus, many buyers were seeking a pool but is it the right decision for you? If you live in a warmer climate, a pool can increase your property value and make it more likely to sell your home. A home with a pool is a dream-come-true but you are wondering if
- [Houses Selling Fast](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/houses-selling-fast/) - Real estate is a hot market these days. Houses are selling at an astonishing rate. If you are looking to sell your house quickly and on the best possible terms, today's market can't be beat. Call me....Ben Keeney 203.313.0013 because I will get the best offer for you.
- [Explore New England](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/explore-new-england/) - With so much to offer, planning day trips in New England can be overwhelming. Sometimes it's best to leave the planning to a professional and take one of the many already established New England tours. Spend a day exploring it all on one of the following New England tours. Tours for Biking Urban Adventours in
- [The Best Outdoor Workouts](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/the-best-outdoor-workouts/) - Hiking Minnewaska State Park was definitely a challenge and an excellent workout. The views reminded me of the Grand Canyon. My preference is to walk or hike. But there are many other activities to get your heart pumping! https://www.newtown-ct.gov. Source for the Newtown Hikers. Biking is good for your heart and muscles. Cycling is easy
- [Go Native, a Garden Story](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/go-native-a-garden-story/) - There's nothing more pleasing than discovering a wild, sun drenched meadow on one of my planned hikes. I'm always amazed at the natural pattern of repeated growth produced over and over again. Native plants live in balance with the ecosystem. Observing natures timely propagation always fills me with excitement. I wait with muted anticipation to
- [Nature Therapy-Healthy Tips](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/nature-therapy/) - Nature benefits physical health, psychological well being, cognitive ability and social cohesion. HEALTH BENEFITS IN SPENDING TIME OUTDOORS During the pandemic, more adults living in the Northeast reported increasing time spent in nature or outdoors. People who spent just two hours a week outdoors in forests, parks or other green spaces reported higher health and
- [Invasive Plants-Avoid](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/invasive-plants/) - An invasive plant is a species non-native to the ecosystem. Whether accidental or intentional, they will cause harm to the environment, economy and/or human health. Invasive plants grow rapidly and spread quickly. They have few diseases and are difficult to control. Once invasive plants are established they are extremely difficult to get rid of. Cutting,
- [CT Waterways-Recreation](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/best-lakes-for-swimming/) - Spanning 110 miles from east to west and 70 miles from north to south, Connecticut is far from America's biggest state. What it lacks in size, it makes up for in its beauty. CT is home to over 3,000 lakes, ponds, and reservoirs making it an ideal vacation destination, especially during the warm summer months.
- [This Isn’t a Bubble. It’s Simply Lack of Supply.](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/this-isnt-a-bubble-its-simply-lack-of-supply-infographic/) - Some Highlights In a recent article, Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist for the National Association of Realtors (NAR), discussed the state of today’s housing market.When addressing whether or not today’s high buyer competition and rising home prices are evidence of a housing bubble, Yun said that this “is not a bubble. It is simply lack of supply.”Today’s housing market is healthy,
- [Real Estate back to normal](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/real-estate-back-to-normal/) - Don't be fooled by Remarkable Real Estate Headlines! While the year-over-year jumps will certainly be striking, consumers should take these numbers with a grain of salt. Essentially, the increases will reflect a combination of two things: sharply lower housing numbers during last year's virus-related market collapse and the subsequent strong rebound. This will result in
- [Gear for Hiking](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/hiking-heres-the-right-gear/) - The Northeast is home to great hiking spots for all skill levels. But if you've never hiked before, hitting the trails might feel a bit intimidating. Here are some tips on how to prepare, dress and pack for your first hike. Before Your Hike: Check the weather forecast, eat a healthy meal, let someone know
- [Into the Wild](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/hiking/) - The Constitution state has a varying topography to interest any hiker. Whether you want to stroll along the coastline or tackle a challenging hike up one of the states high points, Connecticut has it all! Finding access to hiking in Connecticut is pretty easy. Connecticut offers 139 state parks and forests as well as hiking
- [Moving in...](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/moving-in/) - More suggestions for projects to do before you move into your new home. Refinish Wood Floors.....Redoing floors can be a major expense if you have a contractor do the work; however, professional floor refinishing can have an incredible effect on your home's appearance. Of course, you can do yourself but if there's a lot of
- [Before you move in...](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/before-you-move-in/) - Before moving into a new house, people often take care of major structural, electrical or plumbing projects. But there are a number of smaller projects that are easier to accomplish while you are still living somewherre else. A few suggestions follow ...... Repair and Paint the Garage Floor.....before you load up the garage with your
- [Imagine beyond the Imagination](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/buyer-myths/) - I encourage you to be aware of the above because these are just myths. Contact me Ben Keeney 203.313.0013 to discuss further and to determine what your opportunities are in the real estate market.
- [Buying a Home?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/buying-a-home/) - Looking forward to buying a new home? Before making such a big purchase, know that while your typical 20% down payment may be one of the largest expenses, there are additional fees and hidden costs to prepare for. 1.Closing costs: Closing costs could range from 2% to 5% of your home's price. 2.Origination fee: Fee
- [Loggers are busy](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/loggers-are-busy/) - Loggers are working to chop away at the nation's pandemic-spurred timber shortage, while also cashing in on record lumber prices. And, they are making progress: U.S. wood production just hit a 13 year high. While wood production is at a 13 year high, the cost of lumber remains at record levels. As of the week
- [Conveyance Tax](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tax/) - Selling residential property comes with conveyance tax, or a tax on the transfer of property. This tax is paid by the seller, unless otherwise noted in the purchase agreement. In Connecticut, there is a conveyance tax at both the state and municipal level. Municipal town clerks collect the entire conveyance tax and give the state
- [Is it time to buy a bigger home](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/millennials/) - Between 25 and 40 years old are the prime homebuying years when many people begin to form their own households and invest in real estate. Spending more time at home these days has caused a growing need for more space or upgraded features making moving more desirable than ever. For those millennials who already own
- [Home Buying Smarts](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/home-buying-smarts/) - How smart is it to buy a home today? This depends on your needs. Ask yourself these two questions: Do I think home values will be higher a year from now? Do I think mortgage rates will be higher a year from now? If the answer is "yes" to either question, you should strongly consider
- [Renovate?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/renovate/) - When thinking about selling, homeowners frequently feel the need to get their house ready with remodeling to make it more appealing to buyers. However, with so many buyers competing for available homes right now, renovations may not be as vital as they would be in a normal market. Here are two things to keep in
- [Winning Offers](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/winning-offers/) - Today's homebuyers are faced with a strong sellers market. There are many active buyers competing for a low number of available homes. As a result, it's essential to understand how to make a competitive offer on your dream home. Here are 5 tips for success....... Listen to your Real Estate AdvisorUnderstand Your FinancesBe Prepared to
- [Signs of a Roof Leak](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/signs-of-a-roof-leak/) - How to spot a roof leak and know what to do. INSIDE Mold: Any signs of mold indicates water has made its way into your home. Dampness or stains: Bubbles in paint or water stains OUTSIDEMissing or torn roof shinglesCracks in caulk or missing pieces in roof flashingGutters drooping or dripping Risks of a leaking
- [How's Your Credit?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/hows-your-credit/) - You may need a stronger credit to rent these days! Having solid credit makes it more likely you'll get approved for a new credit card, auto loan, or mortgage. And, if you are seeking to rent rather than buy, strong credit could be your ticket to a lease. Here's what you need to do to
- [Mold in Your Home?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/mold-in-your-home/) - Protect your home and family from mold toxins. It doesn't matter what time of year it is, a home can be infected by mold without you even being aware of it. What is Mold? Molds are microorganisms causing damage to your home and can put your family's health at risk. Wherever there is moisture, molds
- [How to increase the value of your home.....remodel your kitchen](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/how-to-increase-the-value-of-your-home-remodel-your-kitchen/) - Tired of your old and outdated Kitchen? With even a small budget to work with, you can take a boring kitchen and make it amazing. Here's how.... Install custom cabinetsPaint or stain existing cabinetsReplace countertopsReplace cabinet hardwareReplace floor with ceramic, stone, vinyl or wood flooringInstall new appliancesUpdate fixturesUpdate lighting Updating your kitchen could give you
- [WHAT ARE YOU DOING THIS WINTER?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/what-are-you-doing-this-winter/) - So, what are you doing during these cold winter months? Me.....I venture out into the woods. I take a hike in the woods to capture the beauty and peace of Connecticut. Trails covered with snow? No problem....get out the snowshoes and cross country skis. These activities sure do work up a good appetite! Check out
- [Why Selling Your Home on your Own is a Mistake](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/why-selling-your-home-on-your-own-is-a-mistake/) - There are many benefits to working with a real estate professional when selling your home. If you are considering selling on your own (For Sale By Owner FSBO), it's critical to consider the following items: Your Safety is a Priority A Powerful Online Strategy is a Must to Attract a Buyer Too Many Negotiations to
- [BUYING A HOME:Do You Know The Lingo?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/buying-a-homedo-you-know-the-lingo/)
- [How to Renovate Your Kitchen and Not End Up in Tears!](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/4062/)
- [BIG SELECTION OF Open Houses This Weekend!!](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/big-selection-of-open-houses-this-weekend/)
- [OPEN HOUSE EXTRAVAGANZA HOSTED BY BEN KEENEY!](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/open-house-extravaganza-hosted-by-ben-keeney/) - 185 Turkey Roost Rd. Monroe, Mela Veltri Chase's Listing. Rustic and charming home on 2+ Acres. Open House This Saturday 3/7, 10am-12pm! 1 Fleetwood Avenue, Bethel, Open House This Saturday 3/7, 1pm-3pm! Classic Tudor Cape with updated kitchen and all the modern conveniences on a perfectly level flat near Bethel's charming downtown! 35 Plumtrees Road, #
- [Home Decor Ideas From A Pacific Northwest Artist --  Startlingly Creative!](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/home-decor-ideas-from-a-pacific-northwest-artist-startlingly-creative/) - Check out this link www.davidbertmandesigns.com
- [2020 Homebuying Checklist | MyKCM](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/2020-homebuying-checklist-mykcm/) - 2020 Homebuying Checklist Some Highlights: If you’re thinking of buying a home, plan ahead and stay on the right track, starting with pre-approval.Being proactive about the homebuying process will help set you up for success in each step.Make sure to work with a trusted real estate professional along the way, to help guide you through the homebuying steps specific to
- [List Now For Results](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/list-now-for-results/) - A common drawback for home sellers is the belief that when the leaves fall so does buyer demand.
- [Waxy Leaves Protect Trees But Can Beat Up Your Basement](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/waxy-leaves-protect-trees-but-can-beat-up-your-basement/) - Tree leaves shed rain so that the tree won't lose vital water through them. Great for trees but if our gutters and downspouts are covered with them they effectively repel and block water from the intended path of a gutter system. Imagine hundreds of plastic bags in your kitchen sink. It's logical to assume the
- [Before the Chill Mow That Lawn One More Time](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/before-the-chill-mow-that-lawn-one-more-time/) - Mow that lawn one more time and feed a hawk. With the onset of (gulp ) cooler weather, remind yourself of the threat of field mice and other rodents. Furry neighbors that like a warm place to visit for the winter months-- inside our homes! A final mow will remove the pests's hiding place and
- [Instant Pot Craze, BD Provisions and helping the environment in Newtown.](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/instant-pot-craze-bd-provisions-and-helping-the-environment-in-newtown/) - New York Times September, 2017 article highlights the celebrated Instant Pot, which combines an electric pressure cooker and slow cooker with other functions in one machine which can produce succulent meats, perfectly moist deserts in one pot with no fuss, clean-up in minutes. Great for delicious, healthy quick meals on weeknights after work. Ron Popeil,
- [Seven Factors to Consider When Choosing A Home to Retire In](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/seven-factors-to-consider-when-choosing-a-home-to-retire-in/) - As more baby boomers enter retirement age, the question of whether to sell their homes and move will become a hot topic. Today’s housing market climate indicates low available inventory in the starter and trade-up home categories. It makes sense to evaluate your home’s ability to adapt to your needs in retirement. According to the National
- [Homeownership Still the American Dream](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/homeownership-still-the-american-dream/) - People in this country have seen homeownership as part of the American Dream for centuries. Immigrants wanted to own a piece of America, whether they were born here or emmigrated from another country. There have been many prominent societal changes over the last few decades. It is fair to ask if people in America still
- [Buying a House This Year? This Should Be Your 1st Step!](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/buying-a-house-this-year-this-should-be-your-1st-step/) - The number of buyers searching for their dream homes outnumbers the number of homes for sale. Many markets across the country are experiencing this. This has led to a competitive marketplace where buyers often need to stand out. Show that you are serious about buying your dream home. Before starting your search, try to get pre-qualified or pre-approved
- [Don't Sell Your Own Home (FSBO)](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/dont-sell-your-own-home/) - In today’s market, as home prices rise and a lack of inventory continues, some homeowners may consider trying to sell their homes on their own, known in the industry as a For Sale by Owner (FSBO). There are several reasons why this might not be a good idea for most sellers. Here are the top five reasons:
- [5 Reasons to Sell This Winter!](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/5-reasons-to-sell-this-winter/) - Here are five reasons why listing your home to sell this winter makes sense. 1. Demand Is Strong The latest Buyer Traffic Report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows that buyer demand remains strong throughout the vast majority of the country despite the winter. These buyers are ready, willing and able to purchase… and are in the
- [What if I Wait a Year to Be a  Home-buyer?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/what-if-i-wait-a-year-to-be-a-home-buyer/) - National home-values have increased by 5.4% since this time last year. Over that same time period, interest rates have remained near historic lows which has allowed many home buyer to enter into the market and lock in low rates. As a seller, you will likely be most concerned about ‘short-term price’ – where home-values are headed over the next six months.
- [Buyers: Don't Be Surprised by Closing Costs!](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/buyers-dont-be-surprised-by-closing-costs/) - Many homebuyers think that saving for their down payment is enough to buy the house of their dreams, but what about the closing costs that are required to obtain a mortgage? By law, a homebuyer will receive a loan estimate from their lender 3 days after submitting their loan application and they should receive a closing disclosure 3 days
- [How to Honor a Veteran Today and Everyday](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/honor-a-veteran-today-and-everyday/) - It was one hundred years ago. On the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month, it was the end of the “war to end all wars.” That day, to be observed annually on the eleventh day of the eleventh month, became known as Armistice Day. Later on, it became known as Veterans
- [2 Myths Holding Back Home-Buyers](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/2-myths-holding-back-home-buyers/) - Home-buyers, Your dream home may already be within your reach. Buying your first home or moving up to your dream home, know your options. It will make the mortgage process easier. Urban Institute recently released a report: “Barriers to Accessing Homeownership: Down Payment, Credit, and Affordability.” “[Home-buyers] often think they need to put more money
- [5 Tips for Starting Your Home Search](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/5-tips-for-starting-your-home-search/) - In today’s real estate market, with low inventory dominating the conversation in many areas of the country, it can often be frustrating to first-time homebuyers if you aren’t prepared. In a recent realtor.com article entitled, “How to Find Your Dream Home—Without Losing Your Mind,” the author highlights some steps that first-time homebuyers can take to help carry their excitement of
- [Pre-Approval: Your 1st Step in Buying a Home](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/pre-approval-your-1st-step-in-buying-a-home/) - Buyers Searching for Dream Homes Outnumber the Number of Homes for Sale In many markets across the country, the number of buyers searching for dream homes outnumbers the number of home sales. This has led to a competitive marketplace where buyers often need to stand out. There is onne way to show you are serious about buying your
- [I Got a Wellness Message From Your Toilet](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/i-got-a-wellness-message-from-your-toilet/) - Welcome to the age of the "wellness home". A new luxury "wellness home" apartment building went up on the lower eastside of manhattan in 2014. It provides nearly 50 different details aimed at living well and mindfully. Imagine leaving your shower healthier than you were before! I know, you're thinking you already know about vitamin-C
- [What If I Wait Until Next Year to Buy a Home?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/what-if-i-wait-until-next-year-to-buy-a-home/) - Good News: Increases in home prices and historically low interest rates means you can be a home buyer now! I recently shared that national home prices have increased by 6.7% year-over-year. Over that same time period, interest rates have remained historically low. This has allowed many buyers to enter the market. This is good news! As
- [How Much Has Your Home Increased in Value?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/how-much-has-your-home-increased-in-value-over-the-last-year/) - Home value have risen dramatically over the last twelve months. CoreLogic’s most recent Home Price Index Report, shows that national home value has increased by 6.7% year-over-year. CoreLogic broke down appreciation even further into four price ranges. This gives us a more detailed view than if we simply look at the year-over-year increases in national median
- [Existing Home Sales Grow Despite Low Inventory](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/existing-home-sales-grow-despite-low-inventory/) - Home Sales Grow for Second Consecutive month despite low inventory. According to the National Association of Realtors, "Existing-home sales grew for the second consecutive month in March. But lagging inventory levels and affordability kept sales activity below year ago levels." Some highlights: According to the latest Existing Home Sales Report from the National Association of Realtors. Sales grew 1.1%
- [Comic Books for Free on Saturday, May 5th!](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/its-free-comic-book-day-on-may-5th/) - Free Comic Book Day 2018, is an annual event that brings free comic books to local shops. "Free Comic Book Day is an annual event founded on the belief that for every person out there, there’s a comic book that they’ll love." More than five million of them will be given away this year, all
- [Thinking of Selling Your Home (FSBO)? You Need A Pro in Your Corner](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/thinking-of-selling-your-home-fsbo-why-you-need-a-pro-in-your-corner/) - Tempted to sell your home on your own? Home prices are on the rise and buyer demand is strong. Sellers may be tempted to try and sell their homes on their own (FSBO), without using the services of a real estate professional. Real estate agents are trained and experienced in negotiation. In most cases, the
- [Why Home Prices Are Increasing](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/why-home-prices-are-increasing/) - There are many unsubstantiated theories as to why home values are increasing. From those who are worried that lending standards are again becoming too lenient (data shows this is untrue), to those who are concerned that prices are again approaching boom peaks because of “irrational exuberance” (this is also untrue as prices are not at peak levels when they are
- [What a Pleasant Surprise](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/what-a-pleasant-surprise/) - Newtown! You've Come to the Right Place! A gentleman stopped by my office on South Main Street in Newtown, last week, looking for directions to Hattertown Road. I asked some pertinant questions about his destination, and understood he was looking for Holcombe Hill Wildlife Preserve. It has the highest elevation point in the area, he
- [Is Family Mortgage Debt Out of Control?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/is-family-mortgage-debt-out-of-control/) - Good News: Family Mortgage Debt is Not Out of Control! Some homeowners have recently done a “cash out” refinance. They have taken a portion of their increased equity from their house. Others have sold their homes. They have purchased more expensive homes with larger mortgages. At the same time, first-time buyers have become homeowners. They
- [99% of Experts Agree: Home Prices Will Increase](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/99-of-experts-agree-home-prices-will-increase/) - The clear majority of recently surveyed housing experts believe that home values will continue to increase this year. Few believe that the new tax code and rising mortgage rates will have a negative impact on home prices in 2018. What is the Home Price Expectation Survey? Each quarter, Pulsenomics surveys a nationwide panel. It includes economists, real estate experts and
- [The COST of Your Home Will Be LESS Than Your Parents' Home Was](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/cost-of-your-home-will-be-less-than-your-parents/) - There is no doubt that the price of a home in most regions of the country is greater now than at any time in history. However, when we look at the cost of a home, it is cheaper to own today than it has been historically. The Difference Between PRICE and COST The price of a home is the dollar
- [Minimum Salary You Need to Make to Buy a Home in Your State](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/what-you-need-to-make-to-buy-a-home-in-your-state/) - It’s no mystery that cost of living is drastically different depending on where you live. So is the minimum salary you need to buy a home. So, a new study by GOBankingRates set out to find out what minimum salary you would need to make to buy a median-priced home in each of the 50 states, and Washington,
- [Most Qualify for Financing in 2-3 Years After Bankruptcy](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/most-buyers-qualify-for-financing-in-2-3-years-after-bankruptcy/) - According to a new study from Lending Tree. Americans who have filed for bankruptcy may be able to rebuild credit faster. They may qualify for a home loan in as little as 2-3 years. This is in stark contrast to the belief that many have that they need to wait 7-10 years. But, people find their bankruptcies clear
- [Danbury: Best Small Connecticut City Location for Business Startup](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/danbury-best-small-city-location-for-start-up-in-ct/) - Recall that old adage, location, location, location? Danbury, Connnecticut, in Fairfield County, tops the list of best small city location to start a business. According to website, Connecticut By The Numbers, in a survey of 1,269 cities, Danbury ranked 170 in the nation. It was the sole Connecticut city to earn a slot among the nation’s
- [US Housing Market Still in 'Buy Territory'!](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/us-housing-market-still-in-buy-territory/) - According to the Beracha, Hardin & Johnson Buy vs. Rent (BH&J) Index. The U.S. housing market has continued to move deeper into buy territory This supports the belief that housing markets across the country remain a sound investment. The BH&J Index is a quarterly report that attempts to answer the question: In today’s housing market, is it
- [NOT Owning Your Home Can Cost You a Lot of Money!](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/not-owning-your-home-can-cost-you-a-lot-of-money/) - Owning a home has great financial benefits, yet many continue to rent! A home of your own has been a part of the American Dream for as long as America has existed. Let’s look at the financial reasons for owning a home. Realtor.com recently reported the following. “Buying remains the more attractive option in the long term.
- [DYI Staging Fixes for Interior Design Mistakes](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/interior-design-mistakes-in-your-home/) - An interior design professional will suggest design fixes by looking at several areas in your interior with a keen and quick eye. They will look at your interior to identify an easy flow from one space to another, well-designed focal points, clean surfaces, and good light. These are key areas that can help your home
- [Marketing Innovation: Don't Try This at Home](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/marketing-innovation/) - Innovative real estate marketing idea from "as-seen-on-TV" advertising guru. A New York City marketing businessman, Anand Khubani, has come up with an out-of-the-box, fun, real estate marketing idea. He put a 60-foot screen of what the completed rehabbed facade would look like on the front of an Upper East Side Historic District townhouse. Mr. Khubani is
- [Smart Home: Where to Begin?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/smart-home/) - Using nothing but the sound of your voice, you can enjoy the benefits of a smart home! But why make your home a smart home? There is little doubt that having a fully connected home is the future of home safety, entertainment, and real-time information. Additionally, many home insurers are providing significant discounts for having
- [Rising Rates: Consolidate Your Home Mortgage and Equity Loans](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/consolidate-home-loans/) - If you have a home equity line of credit, now may be the time to consolidate it into your first mortgage. So, how will you know if it is a good time to consolidate it into your first mortgage? Home equity loans tend to be variable rate loans, and with rates rising, so will your
- [Money: Getting the Most of it for Your House](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/get-the-most-money-for-your-house/) - It is not unusual for a seller to want to get as much money as they can for their home by pricing their home high. Often, against the advice of their Realtor. There are many reasons the seller may do this. Beware Overpricing Your Home. Understandably, sellers want to maximize the value of their home. Perhaps, they
- [My Home is Taking too Long to Sell!!](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/my-home-is-taking-too-long-to-sell/) - Incorrectly price your home to sell and there may be consequences. Here's how to price a home to sell. Priced too high, and your home sits on the market too long or doesn’t sell at all. This may put you in a position to make a price reduction—which could turn off future customers. Priced too
- [40% of Americans Lose Incentive to Refinance](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/americans-lose-refinance-incentive/) - Does it make sense to refinance as interest rates rise? 1.4 million borrowers have lost the interest rate incentive to refinance, but there are still a few good reasons to consider refinancing even as rates are rising. 30-year fixed interest rates are up nearly a half a percentage point since January. So far, the rise
- [Buying a Home: Cost of Home Ownership](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/buying-a-home-cost-of-home-ownership/) - Buying a home is exciting, but do you know the true cost of home ownership? Besides the down payment and monthly mortgage payment there are more costs to consider. And the best time to do so is well before you start house-hunting. Buying a home is one of the largest expenses you may take on,
- [Buying a Home in Your 20s? Yes, You Can!](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/buying-a-home-in-your-20s-yes-you-can/) - Buying a home of your own in your 20s has many advantages, but can be a bit intimidating. Here are some helpful things to consider before you buy: Use a reputable, knowledgeable Realtor: A referral from a friend or family member can go a long way to set you on the path to home ownership
- [Millennials Approach Real Estate by Moving Back Home](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/millennials-approach-real-estate-by-moving-back-home/) - Nearly half of all millennials are looking to ease financial and emotional pressures by living closer to their parents. Millennials are finding it hard to save money for a down payment on a home. As rents rise, and student debt eats into savings they are choosing to live closer to home. Therefore, getting a leg
- [They have our money, are our jobs next?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/money-jobs-next/) - Remember the good old days when a Travel Agent booked your vacations? Price Line, Expedia and Trivago are the new normal. Today, The Motley Fool article, goo.gl/nfjEbK, talks about how mortgage brokers are beginning to be replaced by automated web-sites. Another article, goo.gl/YG7RMJ, showcases the Real Estate Industry where automation is on the move to
- [Buying Remains Cheaper Than Renting in 39 States!](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/buying-remains-cheaper-renting-39-states/) - In the latest Rent vs. Buy Report from Trulia, they explained that homeownership remains cheaper than renting with a traditional 30-year fixed rate mortgage in the 100 largest metro areas in the United States. The updated numbers show that the range is an average of 3.5% less expensive in San Jose (CA), all the way
- [2.29 Homes For The Cost Of 1 Banana (per lb.)!](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/buy-3-homes-1-banana/) - A 2500 square foot house(90,000pounds) in Connecticut costs on average $325,000 which is about 27 cents/lb. Bananas today, on average cost 62 cents per pound. It's a no brainer, buy over 2 homes for the cost of 1 banana per lb. Build equity and invest in your future! Bananas What you pay now: $0.62 (average price for a pound
- [Paying For Your House By The Mile](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/paying-house-mile/) - Lower gas prices has shown to improve consumer confidence by leaving more money to spend. Potential buyers are willing to pay more for housing and commuting and real estate professionals are willing to spend more time behind the wheel to close the deal. A recent study from Florida Atlantic University and Longwood University actually provide data to support this. The collaborative
- [When Buying a House, Beware the Buried Oil Tank](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/when-buying-a-house-beware-the-buried-oil-tank/) - An underground heating-oil tank is a sleeping giant usually left undisturbed until the house hits the market. Nobody wants to pay for the costly remediation of soil contamination. Although it's not a law, buyers attorneys and mortgage lenders typically insist upon determining whether there is a buried tank. If a buried tank is
- [Cooler Weather Makes Real Estate A Hot Investment 1.0](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/cooler-weather-makes-real-estate-a-hot-investment-1-0/) - Cooler weather cools down real estate. Did you know that this is the best time to buy a house? Sellers are more motivated to sell because their property is likely the home that for whatever reason didn’t sell during the peak season. To heat or winterize a home are unfavorable expenses for a seller. Also, the seller is
- [Buying vs. Renting October 2015](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/buying-vs-renting-october-2015/) - Buying a home is still better than renting. Start building your equity today! Once upon a time renting made a lot of sense. Times have changed. Drastic rent increases should make tenants rethink buying. There are hurdles and solutions. Remember, investing in yourself with housing can only be done one way. Buy a home! Hurdle
- ["Savings" plan: Cash value life insurance vs home ownership](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/savings-plan-cash-value-life-insurance-vs-home-ownership/) - Incentives to save and have a nest egg at the end of 20 years can take many forms. Cash value life insurance, touted as an insurance/savings plan is more often sold than other forms of life insurance. It can be borrowed against but the net returns are not as substantial as if term insurance were bought
- [Own To Build Wealth (Over Time)](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/own-to-build-wealth-over-time/) - Home ownership can build wealth over time....if you buy a home that you can actually afford. You build wealth(equity) every month you own your home. Your equity in your home is the amount of money you can sell it for minus what you still owe on it(mortgage). The mortgage comes with tax benefits: The
- [Friday 13 Superstition or superinsulation, You Choose.](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/friday-13-superstition-or-superinsulation-you-choose/) - Insulation as mold preventative? Black mold, the scariest deterrent to home value can be prevented. Mold needs three factors to get a grip on your living environment: 50% + humidity, 40°+ F temperature and biodegradable material. Cellulose is great stuff if you can swear it's going to stay dry. Unbacked fibreglass also great.
- [New Year, New Energy Resolutions Part 1](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/new-year-new-energy-resolutions-part-1/) - First decide the energy bill is something that should be addressed. Working up a plan from the most cost-efficient to more involved "bragging rights" solutions first start with a $75 Home Energy Solutions audit: http://www.clp.com/home/saveenergy/rebates/homeenergysolutions.aspx. Then consider an alternative that's not quite yet on the market: sheetrock that radiates stored energy! http://www.fastcompany.com/1539050/coming-soon-melting-drywall-cools-your-home
- [Cabin Fever Relief Part 3: Get off the Fence](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/cabin-fever-relief-part-3-fences/) - Robert Frost famously mused in verse about why his New Hampshire neighbor was so determined to fence his property off when natural forces and common sense conspired against the idea. His neighbor simply states, "good fences make good neighbors." That's not entirely true though is it? It'd be more accurate to say that good fences
- [Cabin Fever Relief Part 2: Add Colorful Accents To Your Curb Appeal](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/cabin-fever-relief-part-2-add-colorful-accents-to-your-curb-appeal/) - Remember we're planning ahead for spring. Let's try to stay excited through the winter months ahead. Lawns can be expansive and impressive, but boring by themselves. To add interest and the curb appeal that always is demanded by a buyer color is important. The simplest addition is to add strategic accents with cottage gardens. Be
- [SALT Talks, Or How I Learned To Stop Worrying And Love The Snow (Part 3)](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/salt-talks-or-how-i-learned-to-stop-worrying-and-love-the-snow-part-3/) - Salt kills plants. This has been known for as long as man has hated fellow man. The act of "salting the Earth" to prevent the growth of crops has been around since the dawn of war. However enemy warlords aren't the only people who are killing your expensive landscaping. The de-icing salt that is scattered
- [SALT Talks, Or How I Learned To Stop Worrying And Love The Snow (Part 2)](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/salt-talks-or-how-i-learned-to-stop-worrying-and-love-the-snow-part-2/) - If you've ever had a pair of leather shoes you've probably noticed how badly the de-icing salt used in the winter will stain them. Your once shiny black leather shoes have devolved into a disappointing dull gray with white squiggly stains worming all around them. There's not much you can really do to avoid getting the
- [Cabin Fever: Plan A Low Maintenance Grass Season](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/cabin-fever-plan-a-low-maintenance-grass-season/) - A home's lawn makes the first impression. It might indicate if the owner cares enough about the property's management. Spinning around and round on every other weekend on a lawnmower make not be the lifestyle goal of most home owners. Watering the crop regularly can be exasperating too, or expensive if a sprinkler system
- [SALT Talks, Or How I Learned To Stop Worrying And Love The Snow (Part 1)](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/shoveling-salt-or-how-to-keep-winter-damage-to-a-minimum-part-1/) - Keeping your walks clear of snow and ice in the winter has some side effects. Concrete, plants, and even your shoes are all compromised by the chemicals you might use to de-ice. Ammonium sulfate/ nitrate deicers will play havoc with your concrete grout or flooring. These de-icers will react chemically with the concrete and obliterate it. Don't
- [Enter Sandman, Or For The Sake Of Your  Floors, Don't.](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/enter-sandman-or-for-the-sake-of-your-floors-dont/) - You finally made it through the day and your car got you up the driveway and home safe. As you walk in the house you may be accidentally gradually ruining an expensive feature of your home. Hardwood flooring is sensitive to abrasives, like the tiny amounts of sand on your shoes. Always ensure all footwear
- [Kilowatts, kilo-where?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/kilowatts-kilo-where/) - Do you ever feel as though your money is just getting blown away? Think about all the things that require electricity to run that you have at your house. Now think about how many of those you never fully turn off. Your heater and air conditioner likely run (at least partially) on electricity. Televisions (with
- [Free Heat? I Doubt It.](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/free-heat-i-doubt-it/) - Every time people take a moment to look at what's draining their money people look at the various "wants" they have, but if they just took a moment to look at how much money is being unnecessarily spent on their "needs" they would be surprised. The cost of living is a lot more variable than it
- [Focus on your Foundation](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/focus-on-your-foundation/) - At the base of every house there is the literal foundation of the home. The (most likely poured) concrete below the floor that has been, is currently, and will continue to hold your house steady and safe. Without a good foundation the rest of the house doesn't even matter; it would simply be a pile of construction
- [SPOOKY STORIES FROM A RESTLESS REALTOR Part 5b: TRIUMPH OVER TEMPERATURE (Air Conditioning)](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/triumph-over-temperature-air-conditioning/) - While you would think winter isn't exactly the season to worry about your A/C working properly, it's actually one of the better times to get it looked at. Good HVAC guys are in short supply so when the first heat waves of summer roll around, they get booked FAST. The best way to ensure you
- [SPOOKY STORIES FROM A RESTLESS REALTOR Part 5a: Triumph over Temperature (Heating)](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/triumph-over-temperature-heating/) - It's getting colder and colder as the winter creeps closer and closer. The last thing you would want is for your heater to give. One of the most important developments of human history is the ability to keep warm over the winter. Taking dominion over Mother Nature, however, isn't a cheap endeavor. Heating can and will run you
- [SPOOKY STORIES FROM A RESTLESS REALTOR Part 4: A Shocking Story](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/spooky-stories-from-a-restless-realtor-part-4-a-shocking-story/) - So now we'll take a break from the outside of the house, and go to an area that requires a little more professional opinion. No one wants a house fire, and one of the most common ways a house fire starts is through the electrical system. Most consumer-updated older homes don't take into account the
- [SPOOKY STORIES FROM A RESTLESS REALTOR Part 3: Haunted Housetops](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/spooky-stories-from-a-restless-realtor-part-3-haunted-housetops/) - Last time we learned that the things that you can't see often end up being the things to bite you hardest. Not everything that is hidden is buried six feet under however, and unlike the septic in your front yard (and the bodies in the backyard) the roof is relatively visible yet at the
- [SPOOKY STORIES FROM A RESTLESS REALTOR Part 2: Scary Septics](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/spooky-stories-part-2-scary-septics/) - Here's where the horror hits you where it hurts the most: your wallet! We had previously established in Part 1 of this pseudo-series that the market for houses is aged. Old houses mean old house parts. As things age without maintenance, they fall into disrepair. One of the most expensive parts of an old
- [How To Get the Most Out of Your Tradesmen](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tradesmen/) - Whether it's a carpenter, painter, stonemason, electrician, plumber, or even a chimney sweep; every homeowner is going to need to deal with tradesmen at some point of their home-owning life. Everyone's experience with every individual tradesman is going to be vastly different. Interactions with people are as unique as our fingerprints. Hiring a tradesman isn't
- [Spring Protection](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/spring-prevention/) - Southern New England is emerging from the yearly blanket of winter's chill and the ground is down where we look to see it. To make sure our homes are kept safe from the elements we should first start looking up, up at the roofs and the gutter systems. Beg or borrow a pair of binoculars,
- [Are People Just Blowing Smoke Over Chimney Fires?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/are-people-just-blowing-smoke-over-chimney-fires/) - Short story: No. It's not a bunch of hot air. Long story: With winter just around the corner, there's nothing people would like to do more than just curl up around a nice roaring fire at their fireplace. The only problem is the unseen terror; a true threat to truth, justice, and the American way
- [CT Residents Love Those New Restaurants](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/ct-residents-love-those-new-restaurants/) - Connecticut-born Katherine Hepburn once told a newly arrived theatre actor to the area: "Learn to cook. Because your restaurant choices in Connecticut are limited." Times have changed, so have our choices. The celebrated NY Post in their Travel section March of 2022 printed: Here’s why Connecticut is becoming a world-class dining destination describing the number

## Pages

- [Fairfield County Realtor](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/) - [wpl_widget_instance id="wpl_search_widget-2"] A Strong Realty Team is key to success. I'm able to position your most valuable asset to achieve your sales goals. Try these preparatory Steps to Get Started. Hi, I'm Ben Keeney, RE/MAX Agent. Let me guide you to finding the ideal property. These FIRST STEPS work. They are the key to winning
- [Testimonials](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/client-reviews/) - What a difficult market for a home search in Fairfield county. Ben guided me through the entire process with a wonderful calm and friendly demeanor. I found Ben to be thoughtful, knowledgeable and encouraging even after looking at numerous homes. The most important thing to me was that I never felt pressured by Ben to
- [For Rent](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/for-rent-2/) - [WPL sf_select_listing="10"]
- [Properties](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/properties-2/) - [WPL]
- [Popup link test](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/popup-link-test/) - Test the rainbow
- [Local Listings | Available Today](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/properties/) - [WPL kind="0" sf_unit_price="260" limit="12" wplorderby="p.mls_id" wplorder="ASC" wplcolumns="3"]
- [Vacation Rental](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/vacation-rental/) - [WPL sf_select_listing="12"]
- [For Sale](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/for-sale/) - [WPL sf_select_listing="9"]
- [Agents Page](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/agents-page/) - [wpl_profile_show sf_select_user_id="1"]
- [Onsite | Livestream Events](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/onsite-livestream-events/)
- [Greenwood Ave, Bethel 06801](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/greenfield-ave-bethel-06801/) - It's morning on Greenwood Ave. This destination really appreciates the beginning of every day. Imagine a place with 2 boutique coffee roasters. When the sun rises over Bethel Connecticut the best place to rev up your day is on Greenwood Avenue. You'll find some of these prominent business owners' open their doors to an eager
- [Stony Hill, Bethel 06801-3035](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/stony-hill-bethel-06801-3035/) - Newtown Power Equipment, 151 Mount Pleasant Road, Newtown: Solid service department, expert advisers, quality machinery both sales and rentals. I bought my brush mower with their service department in mind. 203-426-5012 Hollandia Gift & Garden, 95 Stony Hill Road, Bethel: Owned and operated by the same family since 1964, this location is sister to their
- [Local Communities](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/local-communities/) - Business ventures, support services, faith venues, open space, and communication infrastructure are the ties that bind communities together We invite you to visit these local business destinations. We're sure your walkabout will enhance the vitality of the locale. Stony Hill, Bethel 06801-3035 Branchville, Ridgefield 06877- Greenwood Ave, Bethel 06801- Georgetown, Redding 06896- Trumbull Center, Trumbull
- [Residential Rental](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/renters/) - Please provide us with your basic rental requirements.
- [Seller](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/seller/) - There are elements of a sale that a home seller can control and some elements they can’t. Location- the house will likely remain where it is, the neighborhood or the terrain won’t change. Condition- the age, features and characteristics of a property are usually what is and not easily transformed. Adding a bathroom or a
- [Buyer](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/buyers/) - Introduction to Home Buying The basic elements of home buying are time and money. The amount of inventory (available choices) and the mortgage rate changes make up the “market”. Choosing the best from these can be best done with personal preparation. Time spent in careful preparation will not only save time but cut down on
- [For Rent](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/for-rent/) - [wpl_widget_instance id="wpl_search_widget-9"] [WPL kind="0" sf_select_property_type="21" sf_unit_price="260" limit="12" wplorderby="p.mls_id" wplorder="DESC" wplcolumns="3"]
- [For Sale by Owner can be a costly decision](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/fsbo-can-be-a-costly-decision/) - Why Selling Your Home on Your Own in 2021 Is A Mistake
- [WPL Carousel](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/wpl-carousel/) - [WPL kind="0" sf_locationtextsearch="Trumbull" sf_unit_price="260" limit="12" wplorderby="p.mls_id" wplorder="DESC" wplcolumns="2"]
- [F.C.R. | Featured Listings](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/featured-listings/) - [WPL kind="0" sf_select_listing="9" sf_select_property_type="15" sf_unit_price="260" sf_select_sp_featured="1" sf_select_sp_hot="0" sf_select_sp_openhouse="0" sf_select_sp_forclosure="0" limit="12" wplorderby="p.mls_id" wplorder="DESC" wplcolumns="3"]
- [Ben Keeney, Fairfield County Realtor](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/about-us/) - Hi, I’m Ben-- your Fairfield County real estate expert with RE/MAX Right Choice in Newtown, Connecticut. My family and I love living in this area, and I have been here since I settled in Connecticut 25 years ago. I offer my clients insider knowledge of the area and expert professional advice on getting the best
- [Column Classes](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/layouts/columns/) - Below are examples of column classes that are available in the Genesis Framework style sheet. Two-Columns This is an example of a WordPress post, you could edit this to put information about yourself or your site so readers know where you are coming from. You can create as many posts as you like in order
- [Full Width Content](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/layouts/fwc/) - This is an example of a WordPress page, you could edit this to put information about yourself or your site so readers know where you are coming from. You can create as many pages like this one or sub-pages as you like and manage all of your content inside of WordPress. This is an example
- [Sidebar/Content/Sidebar](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/layouts/scs/) - This is an example of a WordPress page, you could edit this to put information about yourself or your site so readers know where you are coming from. You can create as many pages like this one or sub-pages as you like and manage all of your content inside of WordPress. This is an example
- [Sidebar/Sidebar/Content](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/layouts/ssc/) - This is an example of a WordPress page, you could edit this to put information about yourself or your site so readers know where you are coming from. You can create as many pages like this one or sub-pages as you like and manage all of your content inside of WordPress. This is an example
- [Content/Sidebar/Sidebar](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/layouts/css/) - This is an example of a WordPress page, you could edit this to put information about yourself or your site so readers know where you are coming from. You can create as many pages like this one or sub-pages as you like and manage all of your content inside of WordPress. This is an example
- [Sidebar/Content](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/layouts/sc/) - This is an example of a WordPress page, you could edit this to put information about yourself or your site so readers know where you are coming from. You can create as many pages like this one or sub-pages as you like and manage all of your content inside of WordPress. This is an example
- [Content/Sidebar](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/layouts/cs/) - This is an example of a WordPress page, you could edit this to put information about yourself or your site so readers know where you are coming from. You can create as many pages like this one or sub-pages as you like and manage all of your content inside of WordPress. This is an example
- [Page Layouts](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/layouts/) - Below is a list of 7 post/page layouts that come with the Genesis theme framework: Content/Sidebar Sidebar/Content Content/Sidebar/Sidebar Sidebar/Sidebar/Content Sidebar/Content/Sidebar Full Width Content Layouts/Columns

## Categories

- [Uncategorized](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/category/uncategorized/)
- [Activities](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/category/activities/) - Local excursions. Not to be missed today.
- [Activities Nearby](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/category/what-to-do-in-connecticut/) - Day Tripping
- [Automotive](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/category/transportation-care/)
- [Buyer](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/category/moving-in/) - Imagine. If Billy Joel liked the neighborhood
- [Case Study](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/category/case-study/) - Poll supported land studies. Ex: Soil Testing or Roof Sheathing
- [Entertainment](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/category/entertainment/) - Day or Night, I’m OUT!
- [Events](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/category/local-events/) - Regularly scheduled events for the house and homeowner
- [Financial](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/category/financial/)
- [History](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/category/historical-facts/) - History is Funtastic
- [Home Improvement](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/category/home-improvements/) - Maintaining your investment
- [Insights](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/category/insights/) - Musings from a Realtor’s top o’ mind
- [Investment Basics](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/category/financial/investment-basics/) - Keeping Home Values Current
- [Landscaping](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/category/landscaping/) - Outdoor manicure
- [Live Easy](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/category/quaint-living/) - Small Town Sensibility
- [Mortgage Debt](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/category/financial/mortgage-debt/)
- [Nature](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/category/nature/) - The effects of nature on our soul
- [Performance](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/category/entertainment/performance/) - A night at the theatre, show or concert
- [Real Estate](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/category/real-estate/)
- [Refinance](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/category/financial/refinance/)
- [Resources](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/category/resources/) - Readily available community extensions
- [Safety](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/category/safety/)
- [Sellers](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/category/moving-out/) - Goodbye Billy Joel
- [Social Civics](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/category/activities/activism/) - Peer organizations who’s purpose is to round out community participation
- [Spooky Stories from a Restless Realtor](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/category/spooky-stories/)
- [Taxes](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/category/financial/taxes/) - Pay the piper
- [Tech Innovations](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/category/home-improvements/home-automation/) - The latest helping hands in the homestead
- [Tenants](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/category/tenants/)
- [Tips and Tricks](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/category/diy-tips-tricks/) - House and Home Tips and Trips
- [Wellness](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/category/wellness/) - On that journey to trancendence
- [Bankruptcy](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/category/financial/bankruptcy/)
- [Beautification](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/category/landscaping/beautification/)
- [Dining](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/category/entertainment/dining/) - Eats for the quintessential foodie
- [Fairfield County](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/category/real-estate/fairfield-county/)
- [Fitness](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/category/wellness/fitness/)
- [Functionality](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/category/landscaping/functionality/) - Modify the grade. pitch, usage and utility. Choices for optimum efficiency
- [Gardening](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/category/landscaping/gardening/) - Natural herbs to flowers
- [Housing Market](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/category/housing-market/)
- [homeowners insurance](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/category/homeowners-insurance/)
- [Mortgage Rates](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/category/mortgage-rates/)

## Tags

- [Air Conditioning](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/air-conditioning/)
- [architecture and design](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/architecture-and-design/)
- [Autumn fall foliage](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/autumn-fall-foliage/)
- [buyer assistance](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/buyer-assistance/)
- [Buyer options](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/buyer-options/)
- [buying](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/buying/)
- [buying cost](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/buying-cost/)
- [Carrier](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/carrier/)
- [cash reserves](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/cash-reserves/)
- [checklist](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/checklist/)
- [Closing Costs](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/closing-costs/)
- [clutter](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/clutter/)
- [Comic aficionado](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/comic-aficionado/)
- [Compare similar homes](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/compare-similar-homes/)
- [connected home](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/connected-home/)
- [Connecticut](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/connecticut/)
- [consolidate](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/consolidate/)
- [consumer confidence](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/consumer-confidence/)
- [Cooking](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/cooking/)
- [cost](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/cost/)
- [cost vs. price](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/cost-vs-price/)
- [Disposable Income](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/disposable-income/)
- [DYI](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/dyi/)
- [ecology](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/ecology/)
- [Environment](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/environment/)
- [equity](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/equity/)
- [Existing Home Sales](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/existing-home-sales/)
- [Expenses](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/expenses/)
- [Fairfield County](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/fairfield-county/)
- [Fall](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/fall/)
- [fast buck](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/fast-buck/)
- [fees](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/fees/)
- [FICO Scores](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/fico-scores/)
- [Finance](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/finance/)
- [Financing](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/financing/)
- [Fixed-costs](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/fixed-costs/)
- [flipping](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/flipping/)
- [For Sale by Owner](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/for-sale-by-owner/)
- [Free Comic Book Day](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/free-comic-book-day/)
- [FSBO](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/fsbo/)
- [future](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/future/)
- [Gadgets](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/gadgets/)
- [gas prices](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/gas-prices/)
- [get the best deal](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/get-the-best-deal/)
- [Grains](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/grains/)
- [Has My Home Increased in Value?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/has-my-home-increased-in-value/)
- [Healthy](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/healthy/)
- [historic](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/historic/)
- [history](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/history/)
- [home](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/home/)
- [Home Buyer](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/home-buyer/)
- [home buying cost](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/home-buying-cost/)
- [Home Efficiency](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/home-efficiency/) - Updating your structure
- [Home Prices](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/home-prices/)
- [Home Sales Grow](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/home-sales-grow/)
- [home search](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/home-search/)
- [Home Seller](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/home-seller/)
- [Home Value](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/home-value/)
- [Home Values Will Increase](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/home-values-will-increase/)
- [homebuyer](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/homebuyer/)
- [homebuying tips](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/homebuying-tips/)
- [Homeownership](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/homeownership/)
- [house](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/house/)
- [house hunting](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/house-hunting/)
- [Household Debt](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/household-debt/)
- [Housing Boom](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/housing-boom/)
- [Housing Bubble](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/housing-bubble/)
- [Housing Market](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/housing-market/)
- [how much salary](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/how-much-salary/)
- [improvements](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/improvements/)
- [Income](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/income/)
- [Increasing Home Prices](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/increasing-home-prices/)
- [inspection](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/inspection/)
- [Interest Rate](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/interest-rate/)
- [interior](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/interior/)
- [interior design fix](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/interior-design-fix/)
- [interior design mistakes](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/interior-design-mistakes/)
- [interior flow](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/interior-flow/)
- [invest](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/invest/)
- [investment](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/investment/)
- [lender](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/lender/)
- [Lenient Lenders](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/lenient-lenders/)
- [lighting](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/lighting/)
- [Luxury Home](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/luxury-home/)
- [Manhattan](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/manhattan/)
- [market](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/market/)
- [Mass-produced home](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/mass-produced-home/)
- [Meals](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/meals/)
- [median-home price](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/median-home-price/)
- [nature](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/nature/)
- [net worth](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/net-worth/)
- [new home](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/new-home/)
- [Newtown](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/newtown/)
- [Now is a good time to buy a home](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/now-is-a-good-time-to-buy-a-home/)
- [Nuts](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/nuts/)
- [pre-approval](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/pre-approval/)
- [pre-qualify](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/pre-qualify/)
- [preparing to sell a home](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/preparing-to-sell-a-home/)
- [Pressure Cooker](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/pressure-cooker/)
- [Qualify](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/qualify/)
- [Quick Dinners](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/quick-dinners/)
- [Raw Goods](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/raw-goods/)
- [real estate](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/real-estate/)
- [Real Estate Experts](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/real-estate-experts/)
- [real estate professional](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/real-estate-professional/)
- [Reasons to refinance](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/reasons-to-refinance/)
- [Refinance](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/refinance/)
- [rent](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/rent/)
- [Rent or Buy?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/rent-or-buy/)
- [Residential Real Estate](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/residential-real-estate/)
- [Rising Rent](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/rising-rent/)
- [Safety](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/safety/)
- [salary](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/salary/)
- [save money](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/save-money/)
- [sell your home on your own](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/sell-your-home-on-your-own/)
- [Sellers market](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/sellers-market/)
- [selling](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/selling/)
- [small town living](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/small-town-living/)
- [smart home](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/smart-home/)
- [Spices](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/spices/)
- [Spring](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/spring/) - First Season
- [staging](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/staging/)
- [startup](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/startup/)
- [Surveyed](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/surveyed/)
- [tank](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/tank/)
- [Time Saver](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/time-saver/)
- [Townhouse](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/townhouse/)
- [trails](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/trails/)
- [Upper east side](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/upper-east-side/)
- [Value](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/value/)
- [Veterans](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/veterans/)
- [Wait or Buy Now?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/wait-or-buy-now/)
- [Walking](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/walking-path/) - Easy Stepping, Seasonal
- [Why wait?](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/why-wait/)
- [Winter](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/winter/) - Snow Fly… don’t bother me
- [Seller](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/seller/)
- [Getting Ready](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/getting-ready/)
- [First Steps](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/first-steps/)
- [Photography](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/photography/)
- [Insights](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/insights/)
- [Mortgage rates](https://fairfieldcountyrealtor.com/tag/mortgage-rates/)