Hyacinths and daffodils are popping up everywhere - soon gardens everywhere will be inviting you to tiptoe through the tulips. This calendar is our way of helping you enjoy life in Fairfield County, CT where there's always something happening to keep you and yours inspired, intrigued and entertained.
Love of the Greens
While, thanks to COVID, almost all private clubs have waiting lists for members, we are very fortunate to have some excellent public courses in our area. From fun 9-hole, par 3 courses to those offering greater challenges, the list is impressive! New to the sport or an accomplished player, why not try something new this spring?
Concierge Calendar - March 2025
In like a lion, out like a lamb — March weather can be tricky in Fairfield County CT. No matter, there's plenty on tap to keep you and yours inspired, intrigued and entertained, indoors and outside.
Concierge Calendar - February 2025
Love is in the Air. We've curated some events and activities to help you get through the chilly days of February. There's just so much to LOVE about living in Connecticut's Fairfield County!
Is Your Home Properly Insured?
Those of us in Connecticut breathe a sigh of relief as hurricane season comes to a close. While our premiums may be impacted by weather events nation-wide, we certainly empathize with others dealing with catastrophic devastation, and the resulting clean-up, rebuilding process. Is your home properly insured?
Multi-generational Living
Today, we are noticing that an increasing desire to be together, for companionship and shared experiences, is driving relocation. While the great recession in 2007-2008 may have created a financial need, the Covid pandemic spurred an emotional one. Living in the same household is not necessarily the goal, but being in close proximity to family is important.
The KMS Lobster Roll Face-off
Heaps of sweet lobster meat on a buttery toasted frankfurter bun....a favorite summer treat for most New Englanders! We decided to take an unscientific survey, polling the KMS Team to find THE best lobster roll in or around Fairfield County. The results were inconclusive. Whether you are a Connecticut purist or a fan of the traditional Maine lobster roll, we have some great options for you!
Sellers Gain Appreciation for Realtors When Attempting FSBO
In our years of real estate, the KMS Team at Compass has seen it all. We listen to, offer advice and respect our clients immensely - even when they opt to sell their home by owner. Affirming what we already know — we work hard for our clients — they learn several things along the way. While things may work out in the end, professional guidance can help maximize the value and minimize the stress surrounding your real estate sale.
Westport's Condo Resurgence
Maintenance-free, single-family style living has an appeal to those accustomed to single-family homes but no longer interested in the upkeep – snow removal, lawn care and the like. The bottom line? People love Westport and all its fabulous amenities, including its beaches and waterfront recreation facility, Longshore Club Park. Moving from a single family home to a condominium is no longer just down-sizing, it is right sizing in style.
What's Up with Mill Rates?
Most municipalities mail tax bills this month. They’re a reminder of the costs & obligations of home ownership, and of the many amenities we get for our dollars. One mill equals a dollar of tax for every $1,000 of assessed property value. “Mill rate” is another way to say “property tax rate.” By state law, property is reevaluated every five years.
Price Adjustments
We have to remember - the asking price of a home is mostly theoretical. What the real estate market - buyers - are or are not willing to pay is the ultimate test. When a property lingers on the market, one must look at the pricing appropriateness for the sellers’ strategy.
Neighborhoods of Fairfield Connecticut
Fairfield is one of the most interesting, geographically and culturally diverse towns in all of southern CT. It is also one of the oldest towns in very old Fairfield County. Covering 30 square miles, Fairfield's ~ 62,000 residents fill a variety of neighborhoods. Two of the best known are on the water—Southport and Fairfield Beach; the third, Greenfield Hill, is well inland. All are beautiful.
Your Property Assessment
Unhappy with your property assessment? Applications for appeal are due February 20th! Have questions, or need advice? Give us a call.
Fabric of Our Communities
From the hilltop of the Old Hill neighborhood, the views of Westport Connecticut are stunning. It is from this vantage point that we take note of the character and charm of historic homes whose preservation helps keep the fabric of our area unique.
Waiting for Lower Costs?
Are you floored by the costs of home improvement or scared of buyers' remorse in this sellers' market? If you are on the sidelines waiting for costs to decline, know it could be decades! As your real estate partners, the KMS Team is ready to identify options and help you formulate intelligent real estate strategies.
Meet Heather Lewandowski
Heather brings a discerning eye to the KMS Team at Compass. Our newest member is experienced, energetic, and – like her nine colleagues – always eager to show off this area’s beauty and charms. We look forward to introducing her to you!
Holiday Indulgences
As the holiday season kicks off this week with Thanksgiving, we thought we’d share some holiday indulgences. Traditionally turkey is the star of the Thanksgiving table, but we here at KMS are all about the extras. Try some new sides or desserts as we all get ready to roll into December.
Homeownership — Fall Maintenance Tips
If you’ve just moved in, chances are good that the previous owners did some tidying up before selling their home. If not, take a look at your home from the curb — does your driveway need sealing, windows need washing or the front door need painting? Fall is the perfect time for these tasks and more. Here are some ideas to get you started.
Fall is for Foodies
The colors, beauty and flavors of autumn extend well beyond pumpkin-spiced lattes! Here in Fairfield County we celebrate the arrival of fall with outdoor recreation, apple-picking excursions, festivals and dining on seasonal fare. Did someone mention German Apple Pancakes or Eggplant Torre? Luckily for us, there are several new places to try this fall. Featuring nearly every cuisine on the planet, in every kind of spot and for all sorts of budgets, Westport & Fairfield have your palates covered.
Upgrade While Replacing
Even at significant expense, upgrading things beyond cosmetics can have enormous value in a market where buyers seek “new” with no work required. Energy saving, environmentally friendly solutions - many with tax rebates and credits thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act, are available and should be considered when making any home improvements.