During November the vibrant colors of autumn transition to the colder, more subdued tones of winter. We fall back to standard time tonight, giving us less daylight during waking hours. Yet, there is still plenty of time for reflection and preparation for the holidays that are fast approaching.
October 2025 Newsletter
We like to say real estate is about people, not just houses. Getting to know our clients and understanding their needs, wants and aspirations is truly the best part of our job. Can AI help match your ideals with a potential home? Certainly, but that's not where the magic happens.
AI and automation are here to stay, and we value the tools they provide (see the Compass Way section below). However, some things—human connection, trust, understanding—cannot be replaced by a machine. Let's meet for coffee and chat. Email, text or call to arrange a convenient time.
Westport Bank & Trust Building — Compass' New Home
As realtors we understand the importance of location, are intrigued by history, appreciate fine craftsmanship and admire architectural design. As we look forward to our 2026 move across the river into the historic Westport Bank & Trust building, we are in awe of those that had the foresight to create, maintain and improve the building and the town of Westport.
Preschools
Due to rising wages and change in birthdate requirements for kindergarteners, preschool in CT has gotten more complex, costly and competitive. Prior to 2024-5 school year, children attaining the age of 5 by January 1st could begin kindergarten in the fall, as a 4 year old.
Now, many children with September-January birthdates attend a "5s" program at a preschool. This change created additional staffing, space and resource needs for preschools, adding to already rising costs.
Concierge Calendar - October 2025
October is brimming with pumpkin spice and Halloween-themed activities, but Fairfield County offers much more this month! We've curated a list of events and ideas to enlighten, entertain, and inspire you, helping you and your loved ones to appreciate your home even more.
Concierge Calendar - September 2025
September acts as a charming transition from summer's warmth to autumn's refreshing chill— a perfect month to venture out and discover new things in Fairfield County, CT. Our curated selection of events and ideas is designed to enlighten, entertain, and inspire you and yours.
Concierge Calendar - August 2025
The "dog days" of summer might be here, but Connecticut still has a lot to offer for those spending time in town. Get out & enjoy — back-to-school shopping can wait ( CT tax-free week is Sunday, August 17th, to Saturday, August 23rd).
Concierge Calendar - July 2025
The holiday weekend begins with fireworks in Westport on July 2nd, and there's plenty more to look forward to. Celebrate Independence Day and savor the rest of an outstanding month—July in Connecticut!
Concierge Calendar - June 2025
June is filled with celebrations—graduations, weddings, and of course, Father's Day! There's always something going on around town. We've curated a list of events and ideas to enlighten, entertain, and inspire, helping you and your loved ones to enjoy summer in Connecticut!
Concierge Calendar - May 2025
May always seems to pass too quickly, with spring events filling every weekend. There's some weekday inspiration lined up for you here as well. We hope you grab a day here and there to savor life in Fairfield County, CT
Concierge Calendar - April 2025
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.













