Did you know The American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) was formed by a Stamford, Connecticut builder?In 1973, Ronald Passaro could only identify six other inspectors in the tri-state area.
Home Inspections
Fairfield's Dining Scene
There’s a lot to love about Fairfield. It’s diverse, dynamic, and drawing plenty of attention. It's home to two universities, which add to the local economy and the vibrancy of the town. Among the biggest attractions: Fairfield’s dining scene. From sit-down to takeout, Italian to Asian, indoors and out, you’ll eat well all over town.
Now may be the best time to sell your house!
Like you, most homeowners in Fairfield County are keenly aware of that we are in a sellers’ market for real estate. Stories of multiple offers and selling prices over list have many people thinking this may be the time to sell. If you are at all tempted, or would simply like to know what your house might be worth presently, we’d love to offer you a complimentary market analysis.
In the Midst of a Pandemic
When introducing our towns, we love recommending restaurants to potential buyers and new homeowners. There are many great ones, featuring every cuisine and style. This February, we especially love the faith that so many people have in our restaurant scene. Despite the pandemic, folks from all over Fairfield County support their favorite places.
Home-Placency
It's so easy - and seemingly cheaper - to decorate your home upon moving in and then do absolutely nothing forever afterward. As real estate professionals, we see this delusion daily and all know this type of complacency is indeed very.....expensive!
Let's Get Packing, It's Time to Move!
Throughout this busy year, we received numerous questions and feedback from our clients about their moving experience. Our goal is to help minimize stress from the entire process of buying or selling a home. Hopefully you will find these tips helpful in planning your next move.
Insured Value of Your Home
We’d like to thank Tom Ayres, Partner at Daigle & Travers Insurance, for so thoroughly explaining why homes are often insured for more that what the homeowners paid for them. Required reading for first-time homebuyers & an excellent refresher for all in these times of ever-rising replacement costs and frequent natural disasters.
Do you believe in Ghosts?
Whether ghosts or spirits occupying a house is something you’ve experienced first-hand or only in the movies, everyone has felt the tingle on their neck when confronted by a strange noise or creak in the night. Most of us feel that tingle just talking about these stories — yes, this client’s experience is just one of several we’ve heard through the years.
Election Season or Not, be Wary of Fake News
We always caution against relying on a "zestimate". Zillow itself claims these to be a "starting point" and encourages buyers, sellers and the just curious to do their own research.
Realtor Life — Downtime during COVID
The KMS Partners team has met several times this summer for a socially-distant cocktail at Compo beach. While business is inevitably discussed, food (of the restaurant, and sometimes the homemade variety) is too! Here, in no particular order are the local mentions from a recent summer’s eve…
Compounding...homes, not interest!
We’ve said it before, COVID has changed the way we all look at our houses. We want private offices, in-law suites, craft rooms, home gyms — and truthfully, some separation and privacy. A home with outbuildings sounds pretty attractive to those housing adult children seeking space outside of city living.
Fun with the Family
Years ago, friends moved to Connecticut from the Midwest. They were given a perfect going-away present of a book Fun with the Family — Connecticut, by Doe Boyle. Hiking, biking, rafting — even a twist on bowling was discovered in their new home state. We asked for some of their favorites…the list was long, so we picked just a few to get you started.
Nothing is certain... but taxes!
As the saying goes, “nothing is certain but death and taxes”. Yes, no matter where you live in the United States, taxes are a certainty. When considering a move across state lines, it’s important to understate the tax implications. Biased for sure, but we think the “bang for your buck” is a lot better in Connecticut than the surrounding states!
Moving from NY to CT
The trend to move within the tri-state region is not new but it is accelerating in our direction! Whether the pandemic has shortened the timelines of those planning to move at some point or making people rethink their definition of home, we the team of KMS Partners, stand ready to help.
Helping Those Without Homes
At KMS Partners at Compass, we love every aspect of homes: buying them, selling them, doing whatever we can to make the folks we work with feel part of a broader community. At a time when so many of us are sheltering in place, it’s more important than ever to think about – and actively work for – those who lack the luxury of shelter.
Comfort Food
As we stay safe at home, many are rediscovering their kitchens, cooking and baking like never before and getting the whole family involved. Making our lists and picking up essentials on a weekly, no longer daily, basis. But still we yearn for our favorites, those local businesses that have made their mark in our communities and our lives….
Prep to become a homebuyer!
To rent or buy a home isn’t just a financial decision, it’s also about comfort and your vision for your life. When that vision clears and home ownership is in view, will you be ready? As one of the most important financial transactions of your life, you need to make sure your finances are in order before beginning the home-buying process.
In Times Like These….Take A Hike!
Keeping social distances in our current environment is wise and responsible. And while outdoor activities in your yard are great, you may need to venture off the beaten path now and again. We’ve rounded up some lesser known but beautiful spots to explore in and around Fairfield County.
Spring is Here!
Now is the perfect time to get started on your spring cleaning. Improve the air quality, your mood and see your home in a brand new light! And it’s a mandatory first step if you are thinking of selling your home. Today’s home buyers want properties in pristine, move-in condition. Selling or staying, make productive use of these days at home…
Let the Learning Continue!
Working from home is not that different for many of us, but keeping children engaged while doing so can make it a little more complicated. Educators are working hard to adapt to this new normal. We've compiled a list of instructional yet fun websites that may also help keep your children engaged during this transition.