Tag Archives: KMS Team at Compass

Real Estate 2025: A Very Good — But Tight — Year

2025 is in the books.

Real estate-wise, in many ways it was one for the books.

Our friends at KMS Team at Compass have compiled some stats. They show a robust market — particularly at the high end.

Last year, 1/3 of all MLS-marketed single-family homes surpassed $3 million.

Limited inventory at lower price points drove prices up. Homes in the $2 million to $2.99 million range sold for an average of 103.5% of their asking price.

Those listed between $1.4 million and $1.99 million fetched 104.5% of the asking price.

But MLS may not capture every sale. In the luxury sector, KMS Team says, the need for privacy and discretion often results in off-market transactions.

Those are not included in the reported figures. The firm expects a further rise in private offerings in 2026.

Five lots on Beachside Avenue — sold together to one buyer, for $54 million — was the largest sale in Westport last year. Or any year. The listing agent was Leslie Clarke Team at Compass.

Despite record-breaking sale prices, last year saw the lowest number of single-family home sales in a decade.

The median sale price — $2.3 million — was double that of 2019, and up 7% from the previous year. The average sale was $2,746,382 — up 10% from 2024.

The total number of reported transactions was 299, down 3% from 2024. The total volume was $821,168,364 — up 7% from the previous year — while the average price per square foot was $655.

The condo market experienced significant growth too, reaching an average sales price of $833 per square foot. KMS Team says that condo demand was driven largely by buyers seeking to downsize, or buy a second home in Westport.

Looking ahead, the realtors expect a modest increase in transaction volume in all types of properties, coupled with steady single-digit price growth.

The most expensive property currently listed is also on Beachside Avenue. The asking price for the 8-bed, 8 1/2-bathroo, 9,995-square foot home on 3.55 acres is $19.8 million.

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What about rentals?

Are you sitting down?

According to MLS, the highest monthly summer rental in 2025 was a fully furnished property on Fraser Lane. It could have been yours for only $78,000 a month, though someone else snatched it up.

Five other homes rented for between $45,000 and $48,000 a month during the summer season.

Three — on Soundview Drive, Bluewater Hill South and Spriteview Avenue — offered water views.

Of the 2 that did not, one on Weston Road — with a heated pool and pool house, and “exceptional” game room — carried an off-season rate of $19,000.

A property on Hitchcock Lane featured a 40-foot saltwater pool.

According to MLS, the most expensive unfurnished annual rental in Westport was on Woody Lane. Initially listed at $35,000 per month, it closed at $30,000.

The listing described it as an “outdoor paradise with exceptional grounds,” including a 44-foot pool; tennis, basketball and pickleball courts; an outdoor kitchen with a pizza oven, and a separate-entry apartment.

This 5-bedroom, 5 1/2-bathroom, 3,770-square foot house on Compo Cove was originally listed for rent at $60,000, for the month of August. The price dropped to $50,000 — but it was never rented.

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Weston, meanwhile, remains very appealing to buyers seeking more space, both inside and outdoors.

In 2025, the average acreage of properties sold in Weston was 2.25; in Westport it was 1.05.

Weston homes offered considerably more square footage in every price category: 12.6% larger in the $3 million-plus range, 38.8% bigger in the $2 million to $2.99 million category, and a whopping 60.8% larger in $1.4 million to $1.99 million.

Weston recorded 146 sales in 2025, up 8% from 2024. The median sale was $1.399 million, up 3.6%; the average sale ($1.530,901) was up 4.2%. The average price per square foot was $385.

In Weston, the upward trend in prices is slowing. KMS anticipates modest growth in 2026.

The most expensive property listed in Weston right now is this 5-bedroom, 7 1/2-bathroom, 11,450-square foot home, on 2.07 acres on Old Redding Road. The asking price is $3,999,999.

(Not ready to buy a home today? No problem. But you can click here, to make a tax-deductible contribution to “06880.” It’s also a good investment — and a lot cheaper.)

Roundup: “06880” House Tour & Stroll, Election Day Signs & Stats, Lynsey & Darcy …

Lovingly preserved homes and beautiful fall weather were the perfect combination for yesterday’s very educational, very high energy and very fun “Historic Homes of 06880” house tour.

Over 130 guests toured 2 properties on Greens Farms Road (both once owned by the Bedford family), and 2 other equally cool ones, on Long Lots Road and Wilton Road.

“06880” board members Dan Donovan and Bill Scheffler flank KMS Team at Compass members Mary Ellen Gallagher and Susan Seath, at 249 Greens Farms Road. Built by Edward T. Bedford, its interior is similar to the 1923 Westport YMCA building — which he endowed too.

Huge props to our friends at KMS Team at Compass, who helped organize the event, and provided historical background and other materials; Pat Shea of Coldwell Banker, who is involved with one of the Bedford homes, and the “06880” board of directors, who greeted visitors warmly and offered additional insights.

In a town filled with new construction, residents love to take a peek into homes that have stood for a century or two. There are many around — and we’ll show off 4 more great ones next year.

Totney and Rick Benson, admiring the Prohibition Era-bar at 209 Wilton Road. The young owners have renovated it with an eye toward its 155-year-old history.

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And speaking of “06880” activities: The 5th annual Holiday Stroll returns Saturday, December 6!

From 4 to 7 p.m., the Westport Downtown Association and “06880” present a now-traditional, action-packed and family-friendly kickoff to the holidays.

The Orphenians will sing. Santa and other characters will pose for photos. There’s a DJ, face painting, food, special deals for shoppers, and much more — including a dedication of the new WDA clock.

More details coming soon. But for now: Save the date!

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Tomorrow is Election Day. (Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Click here for information on candidates and polling places.)

Which means that on Wednesday, thousands of yard signs will be obsolete.

Most candidates do a good job of removing them, within the 48 hours required by law.

But what next?

Representative Town Meeting (RTM) members recycle theirs. Many run every 2 years; it’s a non-partisan body, so their signs just say their name and district.

Yet the signs for those running for boards and commissions — often on a ticket with others — are instantly outdated.

They might save the metal stands. The signs themselves are destined for landfill.

Unless someone has a better idea.

Can artwork be created, perhaps as a school project? Is there another use for them?

I have no idea. But “06880” can start a good discussion.

If you know a good use for thousands of suddenly useless yard signs, click “Comments” below.

Yard signs near the transfer station. Is that where they will all end up? (Photo/Matt Murray)

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Speaking of the election: Early voting ended yesterday. It was the first time in Connecticut, for local races.

After 2 weeks, 16.7% — 3,177 out of 19,020 eligible Westport voters — cast ballots.

The breakdown:

  • Democrats: 1,772 of 7,945 eligible voters (22.30%)
  • Republicans: 488 of 3,332 eligible voters (14.65%)
  • Unaffiliated: 899 of 7,588 eligible voters (11.85%)

Of course, how they voted will not be known until tomorrow night. “06880” will have the results when they are announced, some time after 8 p.m.

Lucia Scotti (left) came home yesterday from the University of Connecticut, to vote at Town Hall. She was joined by her parents, Janine and Pietro.

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Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist (and 1991 Staples High School graduate) Lysney Addario’s new film, “Love+War” — a documentary about her work in conflicts around the globe — has gotten great reviews.

On “Weekend Edition,” she spoke with NPR’s Ayesha Rascoe about the balance between her work and life. Click here to read the interview, and/or to listen. (Hat tip: Dick Lowenstein)

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The Westport Book Shop’s guest exhibitor this month is well-known artist Darcy Hicks.

Specializing in metal leaf and oil paint, she is drawn to anything that reflects aggressive light.

Hicks is the director of education at the Norwalk Art Space, which provides free art and music education to low-income students. The Westport native earned a bachelor’s in fine arts from Smith College, a master’s of education from Lesley University, and an MFA in creative writing from Fairfield University.

A reception is set for November 12 (6 p.m.). All artwork on display is available for purchase. 25% of the proceeds will be donated to the Arbor Day Foundation, which has planted half a billion trees.

Darcy Hicks, with her work at the Westport Book Shop.

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Veterans Green was packed yesterday with air-cooled car owners, their admirers — and of course, the vehicles themselves.

The 12th annual event was sponsored by the Small Car Company,

Some of the many air-cooled cars on Veterans Green. (Photo/Susan Garment)

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Drivers taking advantage of this train station spot are going to have to wait a lot longer than 15 minutes.

(Photo/John McCarthy)

Donut Crazy closed in April.

But in terms of outdated signs, this one has nothing on Jesup Green.

A sign there indicated a Minnybus stop.

Nearly 40 years after the diesel bus made its last run.

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Get your game on!

SLOBs — the Staples Service League of Boys, a hard-working and very popular organization — hosts a 3-v-3 basketball fundraiser. Proceeds go to Staples Tuition Grants — a very worthy cause for the teens — in memory of their friend Perrin Delorey.

The November 21 event (6 p.m.) includes pizza. Registration is $25 per participant; Venmo @jhgillman.

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Jeff Lea — the winningest coach in Staples boys soccer history — has just won again.

The 2nd permanent head coach — who served in 1970, then from 1978 to 2002, and won 5 state championships plus 12 FCIAC titles en route to a 357-77-42 record — will be inducted on March 7, at the Doubletree in Bristol.

Lea’s selection brings to 12 the number of Connecticut Soccer Hall of Fame inductees with Staples ties. They include Loeffler, Steve Baumann, Paul Hunter, Tim Hunter, Jim Kuhlmann, Kyle Martino, Ken Murphy, Kevin Murphy, Mark Noonan, Mike Noonan and Dan Woog.

Jeff Lea (far left), with members of the 1970 state championship team (from left): Tracy McIntosh, Fred Cantor, Neil Brickley, Steve McCoy.

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Josie McAllister took advantage of yesterday’s spectacular autumn weather to enjoy the Compo Beach jetty.

Her human friend Gwen Tutun was happy to record the moment, for “06880”‘s daily “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Gwen Tutun)

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And finally … that early darkness yesterday caught you by surprise, right?

It happens every year, when Daylight Savings ends justlikethat.

But don’t worry. Only 125 days until it begins again.

(“06880” is more than just a blog. We sponsor an annual house tours, 2 strolls a year, and a variety of good causes. But we can’t do it without you! Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

Sunday’s “Historic Homes Of 06880” Tour Almost Sold Out

Only a few tickets remain for the 3rd annual “Historic Homes of 06880” house tour. This Sunday’s event (November 2, 1 to 4 p.m.) includes 4 very cool (and different) homes.

Tickets are $60 each, $100 for 2. Proceeds help fund “06880”‘s work — which, as always, chronicles Westport’s past, present and future.

Click here for tickets — and read on! Our friends at KMS Team at Compass once again co-sponsor the tour.

249 Greens Farms Road

The house was built in 1907 by Charles Bedford, president of the Vacuum Oil Company and son of wealthy businessman Edward T. Bedford. (A second Bedford house on Greens Farms Road is also on this year’s house tour. See below for details.)

Charles married Happy Briggs, and sold the property  to Michael Hawie in 1920.  The property was sold to multiple people until the current owners purchased the property. The home is on the market, listed by KMS Team at Compass.

A veranda, rear porch and several balconies offer views of the expansive grounds, and luxurious pool. It’s a great example of Westport’s Victorian-style homes.

Plus, it’s just steps away from another home on our 3rd annual tour:

.221 Greens Farms Road

Edward T. Bedford — the businessman and philanthropist who endowed the Westport YMCA and Bedford Elementary School, among many other gifts — built the Colonial Revival in 1904 to replace a Federal house that burned. His son Frederick owned it until his death. His daughter Ruth Bedford lived there from 1950 to 1963. When she died a decade ago, her $120 million estate was divided between the Westport Y, Norwalk Hospital and the Foxcroft School.

The Colonial Revival style reflects the finest quality work of the period.  Architectural details include a conical tower with a Palladian window. The home is on the market, listed by Coldwell Banker.

209 Wilton Road

Known as the Nathaniel S. Kirk House, this circa 1870 antique was expanded in 1900, 1930 and 1989. Many may not even know it exists, behind the perimeter fencing. A quick glance shows only the old well.

The current owners have worked tirelessly for nearly 5 years to add their own touch. Original fireplaces, wide board flooring and beams help retain the character and charm of this Connecticut classic. A beautifully paneled family room and incredible Prohibition Era bar room often have guests staying well past their welcome.

155 Long Lots Road

This beautiful, somewhat humble 1938 Cape Cod-style home has been expanded more than once over time, by previous owners.

The current owners have created more natural light, and a more open floor plan, with exposed beams. There is a wonderful loft space above the barn-style garage. Think “Easthampton meets Westport.”

Outdoor amenities include a pool and tennis court (recently transformed into a pickleball magnet).

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“06880” often celebrates Westport’s rich history. We honor homeowners who preserve the past, while enhancing their neighborhoods — and those who bring new life to them.

“06880” tells stories. As you explore all 4 houses, you’ll learn the stories behind each one.

The homeowners will point out cool aspects of each home. You’ll get a brochure explaining the 4 houses too.

Our friends at KMS Team at Compass are once again sponsoring the “Historic Homes of 06880” tour.

Tickets are $60 each, $100 for 2. Proceeds help fund “06880”‘s work — which, as always, chronicles Westport’s past, present and future.

Click here for tickets. Questions? Email 06880blog@gmail.com

Old Homes, New Sales Data

As we prepare for the 3rd annual “Historic Homes of “06880” tour next Sunday (November 2, 1 to 4 p.m.) — featuring 4 homes, all built between 1870 and 1938 — it’s interesting to take a look at the ages of all the homes sold in Westport thus far in 2025.

Exactly 1/3 (33.4%) of the 243 homes that changed hands were built between 1950 and 1970. 15.7% were built between 1900-1950, while 5% went up before 1900!

In other words, more than half the homes sold were built in 1970 or earlier, while just 18.6% of homes sold were built in 2010 or later.

The 4 homes on the Historic Tour date from 1870, 1904, 1907 and 1938. Each is an excellent representation of its time period. All have been restored with loving care — and enlarged to meet 21st century needs.

249 Greens Farms Road, a Bedford family gem.

Homes built in the 1920s housed an average of 4.3 people, and were approximately 1,000 square feet.

By 2014 — nearly 100 years later — home sizes had increased roughly 2 1/2 times, to an average of 2,650 square feet.

The average size of homes sold year to date in Westport is 3,851 square feet (above grade). The median size is 3,378 sf.

Homes priced in the $1.4 to $2 million dollar range remain the most sought after, deriving an average sales price of 5.5% over asking price. Homes in this price range average 2,848 square feet.

Hover over or click on to enlarge.

This information comes from our friends at KMS Team at Compass — sponsors of our November 2 Historic Homes tour.

They’ll be with “06880” representatives in the 4 homes next Sunday, ready to describe the history of each property, and answer questions about how “old” homes have been adapted for 21st century life.

To learn more about those 4 homes — 221 and 249 Greens Farms Road, both built by the legendary Bedford family, as well as 209 Wilton Road and and 155 Long Lots Road, and for tickets, click here.

155 Long Lots Road

New Addition To “Historic Homes Of 06880” Tour!

A fourth home has been added to our November 2 “Historic Homes of 06880” tour.

And it’s a beauty.

249 Greens Farms Road replaces a home on Compo Road South. The owner had to drop out, because of an illness in the family.

Our addition — the Greens Farms Road home — is a 1907 estate. It combines historic character, architectural details and modern comfort across 4 levels.

249 Greens Farms Road

The house was built in 1907 by Charles Bedford, president of the Vacuum Oil Company and son of wealthy businessman Edward T. Bedford. (A second Bedford house on Greens Farms Road is also on this year’s house tour. See below for details.)

Charles married Happy Briggs, and sold the property  to Michael Hawie in 1920.  The property was sold to multiple people until the current owners purchased the property. The home is on the market, listed by KMS Team at Compass.

A veranda, rear porch and several balconies offer views of the expansive grounds, and luxurious pool. It’s a great example of Westport’s Victorian-style homes.

Plus, it’s just steps away from another home on our 3rd annual tour:

.221 Greens Farms Road

Frederick Bedford built the Colonial Revival in 1904 to replace a Federal house that burned. His son, Edward T. Bedford — the businessman and philanthropist who endowed the Westport YMCA and Bedford Elementary School, among many other gifts — owned it until his death in 1931. His daughter Ruth Bedford lived there from 1950 to 1963. When she died a decade ago, her $120 million estate was divided between the Westport Y, Norwalk Hospital and the Foxcroft School.

The Colonial Revival style reflects the finest quality work of the period.  Architectural details include a conical tower with a Palladian window. The home is on the market, listed by Coldwell Banker.

Click here for tickets — and read on!

The other homes — announced previously — are:

209 Wilton Road

Known as the Nathaniel S. Kirk House, this circa 1870 antique was expanded in 1900, 1930 and 1989. Many may not even know it exists, behind the perimeter fencing. A quick glance shows only the old well.

The current owners have worked tirelessly for nearly 5 years to add their own touch. Original fireplaces, wide board flooring and beams help retain the character and charm of this Connecticut classic. A beautifully paneled family room and incredible Prohibition Era bar room often have guests staying well past their welcome.

155 Long Lots Road

This beautiful, somewhat humble 1938 Cape Cod-style home has been expanded more than once over time, by previous owners.

The current owners have created more natural light, and a more open floor plan, with exposed beams. There is a wonderful loft space above the barn-style garage. Think “Easthampton meets Westport.”

Outdoor amenities include a pool and tennis court (recently transformed into a pickleball magnet).

==================================================

“06880” often celebrates Westport’s rich history. We honor homeowners who preserve the past, while enhancing their neighborhoods — and those who bring new life to them.

“06880” tells stories. As you explore all 4 houses, you’ll learn the stories behind each one.

The homeowners will point out cool aspects of each home. You’ll get a brochure explaining the 4 houses too.

Our friends at KMS Team at Compass are once again sponsoring the “Historic Homes of 06880” tour.

Tickets are $60 each, $100 for 2. Proceeds help fund “06880”‘s work — which, as always, chronicles Westport’s past, present and future.

Click here for tickets. Questions? Email 06880blog@gmail.com

4th House Added To “Historic Homes Of 06880” Tour

A fourth home has been added to the 3rd annual “Historic Homes of 06880” tour.

And it’s very cool.

221 Greens Farms Road — rounds out the quartet, for the Sunday, November 2 (1 to 4 p.m.) event.

 

221 Greens Farms Road

Frederick Bedford built the Colonial Revival in 1904 to replace a Federal house that burned. His son, Edward T. Bedford — the businessman and philanthropist who endowed the Westport YMCA and Bedford Elementary School, among many other gifts — owned it until his death in 1931. His daughter Ruth Bedford lived there from 1950 to 1963. When she died a decade ago, her $120 million estate was divided between the Westport Y, Norwalk Hospital and the Foxcroft School.

The Colonial Revival style reflects the finest quality work of the period.  Architectural details include a conical tower with a Palladian window.

The other homes — announced previously — are:

209 Wilton Road

Known as the Nathaniel S. Kirk House, this circa 1870 antique was expanded in 1900, 1930 and 1989. Many may not even know it exists, behind the perimeter fencing. A quick glance shows only the old well.

The current owners have worked tirelessly for nearly 5 years to add their own touch. Original fireplaces, wide board flooring and beams help retain the character and charm of this Connecticut classic. A beautifully paneled family room and incredible Prohibition Era bar room often have guests staying well past their welcome.

123 Compo Road South (corner of Green Acre Lane)

The David Flynn House (circa 1853) is a pristine, updated 19th century gem. The current owner has taken the prior owners’ restoration even further, combining compelling cosmetic changes with gorgeous antique and contemporary furnishings.

Three working fireplaces are often in use. The heated stone floor in the family room is perfect for stocking feet. The stunning country kitchen opens to a bluestone terrace, small pool and magnificent gardents.

The bonus is a separate 2-car garage, built to look like an original barn, with furnished living space above it.

155 Long Lots Road

This beautiful, somewhat humble 1938 Cape Cod-style home has been expanded more than once over time, by previous owners.

The current owners have created more natural light, and a more open floor plan, with exposed beams. There is a wonderful loft space above the barn-style garage. Think “Easthampton meets Westport.”

Outdoor amenities include a pool and tennis court (recently transformed into a pickleball magnet).

==================================================

“06880” often celebrates Westport’s rich history. We honor homeowners who preserve the past, while enhancing their neighborhoods — and those who bring new life to them.

“06880” tells stories. As you explore all 4 houses, you’ll learn the stories behind each one.

The homeowners will point out cool aspects of each home. You’ll get a brochure explaining the 4 houses too.

Our friends at KMS Team at Compass are once again sponsoring the “Historic Homes of 06880” tour. The Bedford home is on the market, by Coldwell Banker.

Tickets are $60 each, $100 for 2. Proceeds help fund “06880”‘s work — which, as always, chronicles Westport’s past, present and future.

Click here for tickets. Questions? Email 06880blog@gmail.com

“06880” Historic Homes Tour Set For November 2

Four beautifully restored homes highlight the 3rd annual “Historic Homes of 06880 Tour.”

Set for Sunday, November 2 (1 to 4 p.m.), it builds upon our first 2 very successful events, opening some of Westport’s most intriguing properties to the public.

209 Wilton Road

Known as the Nathaniel S. Kirk House, this circa 1870 antique was expanded in 1900, 1930 and 1989. Many may not even know it exists, behind the perimeter fencing. A quick glance shows only the old well.

The current owners have worked tirelessly for nearly 5 years to add their own touch. Original fireplaces, wide board flooring and beams help retain the character and charm of this Connecticut classic. A beautifully paneled family room and incredible Prohibition Era bar room often have guests staying well past their welcome.

123 Compo Road South (corner of Green Acre Lane)

The David Flynn House (circa 1853) is a pristine, updated 19th century gem. The current owner has taken the prior owners’ restoration even further, combining compelling cosmetic changes with gorgeous antique and contemporary furnishings.

Three working fireplaces are often in use. The heated stone floor in the family room is perfect for stocking feet. The stunning country kitchen opens to a bluestone terrace, small pool and magnificent gardents.

The bonus is a separate 2-car garage, built to look like an original barn, with furnished living space above it.

155 Long Lots Road

This beautiful, somewhat humble 1938 Cape Cod-style home has been expanded more than once over time, by previous owners.

The current owners have created more natural light, and a more open floor plan, with exposed beams. There is a wonderful loft space above the barn-style garage. Think “Easthampton meets Westport.”

Outdoor amenities include a pool and tennis court (recently transformed into a pickleball magnet).

The 4th house will be announced soon.

“06880” often celebrates Westport’s rich history. We honor homeowners who preserve the past, while enhancing their neighborhoods — and those who bring new life to them.

“06880” tells stories. As you explore all 4 houses, you’ll learn the stories behind each one.

The homeowners will point out cool aspects of each home. You’ll get a brochure explaining the 4 houses too.

Our friends at KMS Team at Compass once again sponsor the “Historic Homes of 06880” tour.

Tickets are $60 each, $100 for 2. Proceeds help fund “06880”‘s work — which, as always, chronicles Westport’s past, present and future.

Click here for tickets. Questions? Email 06880blog@gmail.com.

After The Closing: Does Westport Live Up To Its Hype?

It’s daunting to move to a new town.

Things began frustratingly for Mike and Robin Clementi, who came to this area from New Jersey for his job. Realtor Karen Scott of KMS Team at Compass sold them on the schools, beaches, Longshore, restaurants and shopping. But they lost at least 6 houses, in bidding wars.

Finally they found — and bought — one. The location, a cul-de-sac off Compo Road South, was perfect. They could walk downtown, to the Levitt, and the water.

Then things got even better.

Even before they moved in 2 years ago, their new neighbors exchanged phone numbers. It was a young street — several families had arrived just a year or two earlier — and though their children were younger, they made sure the Clementis’ daughters (a rising junior at Staples High, and an incoming 7th grader — had someone to sit with at lunch the first day of school.

There was more. Lauren, the older girl, played varsity golf in New Jersey. The family reached out to Staples coach Patty Kondub. She spent an afternoon with them — and arranged a party for Lauren to meet her new teammates.

Robin Clementi and her family.

The shopping, restaurants and other amenities have been “great — worth all the hype.” But those two stories “sum up what this town means to me,” Robin says. “It was an exceptional, warm welcome we never expected.”

Not everything is perfect. Robin is an interior designer, and she thought she could keep her previous clients. Traffic on I-95 makes that difficult. So she pivoted. Now she’s got new clients — and has found great new designers and builders to work with.

The walk to the beach proved further than expected. But her daughter walks to town quite a bit. After school, she takes the bus to the Library — a spot Robin calls “magic. Kids love going there!”

Another surprise: Birchwood Country Club. Though Longshore is “beautiful and lovely,” tee times are tough to get. Someone suggested the club off Kings Highway South.

“It’s beautifully camouflaged and tucked in,” she says. “We love it.”

Birchwood Country Club: a hidden gem.

The Clementis’ experience is mirrored by other families who have moved here recently. “06880” wondered whether realtors’ hype — and newcomers’ expectations — were matched by reality.

In many cases, they are.

Jen Krichels is from rural Maine. Her husband, Matthew Johnson, grew up in Colorado.  She is a writer and editor for architectural publications; he’s in marketing.

They lived for many years in Brooklyn. During the pandemic, they and their 2 children spent 2 years in the Catskills, where they’d bought a fixer-upper.

They loved the community, and had many friends there. But it was spread out. Childcare was limited.

They could not envision moving back to a 2-bedroom apartment. They looked at homes in Westchester County, and elsewhere.

The couple remembered visiting a friend in Westport. The flags on the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge, downtown, the beauty of the coastal beaches, the reputation for cultural life — all impelled them to consider the town.

Neither of them commutes regularly. But proximity to the train — and New York — was important.

KMS agent Mary Ellen Gallagher found them a home in the Old Hill area.

What’s the verdict?

Reality has lived up to expectations “in almost every category,” Jen says. She cites “the amenities for kids and adults, the schools, cultural opportunities, the and access to outdoors” — including Earthplace — among the highlights.

The Krichels family, at Winslow Park. (Photo/Matthew David)

Last summer, she surprised herself by not going away.

“We realized we were on vacation already!” Jen says. They attended concerts at the Levitt, and stayed late at the beach with friends and neighbors.

Traffic and parking are frustrations. She worries about her children walking and riding on local streets. At the same time, she walks with her kids to school. And she is heartened to see groups of youngsters riding bikes.

Her next door neighbor, Jenna Petok, is a director of Bike Westport. They’re kindred spirits, and have forged a strong friendship.

Jen is interested in municipal issues. She calls the Representative Town meeting an “interesting” form of government. “It’s nice to see peers involved in those discussions,” she says.

“Any town that can support growth, foster walkability, and include lower-income people will thrive. Westport can do that.”

Clara and Sebastian Krichels enjoy summer in Westport.

Meanwhile, is there anything Jen and Matthew have not tried?

“Anything after 8 p.m.,” she laughs. “I know people enjoy post-sunset drinsk at the beach. That’s nice. But it’s not our turn yet!”

Julia Dzafic has been here a bit longer. But the marketer and blogger says she and her husband Anel, who owns Countdown Fitness on Sylvan Road South (and who feels welcomed by other businesses), have had “the best 6 years of our lives. It’s even beyond our expectations.”

Working for herself, she appreciates the meeting rooms at the Library.

The family enjoys pizza nights at Compo and Old Mill, and restaurants like The Whelk and Bartaco (“we’re there once a week,” julia says of that family-friendly spot).

Her 8-year-old daughter’s 2 best friends live next door — a joy for any mother.

Julia Dzafic, and her family.

“We never felt we belonged to a community more,” she says. She and her friends — who recently returned from a 40th birthday trip together — share “values, kids and life situations.”

(One negative: “With a 2-year-old, I naively did not expect pressure on kids to do so much, at a young age.” However, she adds,” that may not be town-specific.”)

Fairfield County towns seem to be similar. However, Julia says, each attracts “a different group. Westport attracts a more laid-back type person. It’s got the feel of a beach town. Even the restaurants that aren’t on the water feel like that. There’s something about Compo that fills the whole town.”

Julia Dzafic and her husband Anel. He grew up on a farm in Bosnia. They keep 12 chickens in a large coop on their property. (Dazfic photos/Julia D’Agostino)

Julia speaks for many newcomers, who were enticed by Westport’s sizzle, and now enjoy its steak.

“We’re so happy to be here,” Julia says. “We don’t think we’ll ever leave.

“And we hope when our kids are much older, they’ll come back to visit.”

(“06880” keeps a sharp eye on every facet of Westport — old-timers, newcomers, and everyone in between. If you enjoy our coverage, please click here to support our work. Thank you!) 

 

 

 

 

Welcome, Neighbor! Where Are You From?

A reader writes: “Since returning to Westport 5 years ago, I have heard people say ‘New Yorkers ruined this town.’

“Having lived in several other places, I know for sure that this is not a ‘ruined’ town! But I wonder: Is there any data on the makeup of Westport? How many people have lived here 20+ years? Where are new residents coming from? Is Westport really ‘overrun’ with New Yorkers?”

Good questions, all. For answers, I turned to our friends at KMS Team at Compass.

Their data for the last 5 years shows that a clear majority — 58% — come from … Connecticut.

And some — perhaps even many — of those moves involve residents already living in Westport. For reasons ranging from a need for more space (or less) to a desire to experience a different part of town, they sell and buy properties only a couple of miles away.

It’s true that New York is the most popular outside feeder state for Westport. But KMS agents say that many of those buyers are returning home. They grew up in Fairfield County — some even in Westport — and then moved to New York as they began careers and families.

Longevity is also challenging to measure. But using the SmartMLS Tax System, KMS says: “Because we know people continually move within the town, it is safe to say that 20% of Westporters have lived here over 25 years, and 50% have been here at least 10 years.

“Although nearly a quarter of our housing stock changed hands in the last 5 years, a mere 6.4% of the buyers (646) were from New York.”

The chart above also provides interesting school district data. While KMS notes that many clients have an affinity for one elementary school, the staying power within each district is essentially the same.

Median sales prices within the districts, however, have changed dramatically:


Home selling prices are influenced by the quality and availability of homes for sale. This data is obtained from the SmartMLS. KMS says that
private sales are not reflected in these numbers. Off-market transactions have become increasingly popular since the onset of COVID, and persist as clients value their right to privacy and discretion.

New home construction and custom builds (which are also often off-market transactions) are also a factor.

As the market remains tight, buyers are pleased to close sales.

Wherever they come from.

(“06880” reports regularly on real estate news and trends. If you enjoy our coverage — or any other features of your hyper-local blog — please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

 

Old Homes Are New Again

The median sale price of a Westport home is climbing toward $2 million.

The cost of new builds is even higher.

Which is why the appeal of older homes — those with “good bones” and timeless charm — has never been higher.

Our friends at KMS Team at Compass say that a growing number of buyers are bypassing new construction, in favor of the town’s historic and vintage homes.

There are several reasons.

One is affordability and value. Buyers get more space, character and land for their investment, compared to new builds.

This Clapboard Hill Road property includes the original home, and an expansion. Perimeter trees ensure privacy, on the corner of Greens Farms Road.

With a recent increase in housing inventory, and homes staying on the market for an average of 45 days, buyers have more choices and negotiating power than in recent years.

Purchasing an older home can mean a lower property tax basis too — especially if the assessed value is less than a comparable new build.

This translates into significant savings over time, making historic properties even more attractive to price-conscious buyers.

Architectural character and historic charm are considerations as well. Homes in historic districts like Kings Highway North and Old Hill — where they date back to the 19th, even 18th, centuries — feature original woodwork, wide-plank floors and hand-crafted mantels — that are difficult (and costly) to replicate today.

Iconic properties like the Allen and John Osborn Houses showcase enduring craftsmanship and unique design that help define Westport’s architectural heritage.

The John Osborn House – the oldest home in Westport, located on Long Lots Road — took years to restore. It is believed to have been built between 1683 and 1687.  (Photo by Larry Untermeyer)

Many of Westport’s older homes are situated on larger lots, with mature trees and landscaping.

They’re often in walkable, established neighborhoods close to the Saugatuck River, downtown and beaches. They offer a sense of community and history that new subdivisions often lack.

Of course, some historic homes need “rehabilitation.” Owners may qualify for Conncticut’s Historic Homes Rehabilitation Tax Credit, which covers up to 30% of qualified expenses (to $30,000).

The home must be a primary residence with a historic designation, and the project must meet certain criteria.

Restoring a historic Westport home — from updating kitchens and bathrooms to restorin original features — means blending modern comfort with classic style.

The rewards are personal. But they also contribute to the town’s legacy.

Today that appeals to homebuyers in Westport of all ages, and from here and far.

(You can see some of those historic, restored properties on our 3rd annual “Historic Homes Tour,” sponsored by “06880” and KMS Team at Compass. The date is November 2. Details will be announced soon.)