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Homeownership has always been about more than just having a place to live. For many, a home becomes a mirror of who they are, a space for peace, and a safe haven from the world. As the real estate market continues to shift, this deeper emotional connection to home has only grown stronger.

A recent Redfin survey revealed a powerful trend: homeowners aren't just buying houses, they’re finding places that offer comfort, reflection, and peace. And with National Homeownership Month in full swing this June, it’s the perfect time to explore how the meaning of home has evolved.

Home Reflects Identity

According to Redfin's findings, nearly 70% of homeowners say that the style and features of their home reflect their personality. Whether it’s through paint colors, furniture choices, or layout, homeowners are shaping their spaces to match their unique preferences.

This underscores a broader truth: people aren’t just choosing homes based on square footage or location, they’re choosing places where they feel understood and represented.

Home as a Preferred Destination

Nearly three-quarters of surveyed homeowners shared that they'd rather spend time at home than go anywhere else. In a world filled with constant activity and digital distractions, this preference reveals something significant: people value their space not just as a residence, but as a retreat.

This shift speaks to the growing desire for comfort, calm, and a break from external demands, qualities that matter more now than ever.

A Place to Truly Rest

For 68% of homeowners, home is the only place they feel they can fully relax. The same number also report it’s the only place they can consistently get a good night's sleep.

This ties into the emotional security home offers. It's not just a roof overhead, it's where routines settle, stress eases, and a sense of belonging takes hold. That makes the search for the right home not only a financial decision, but a personal one.

National Homeownership Month Resources

To recognize the importance of homeownership, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) is offering a suite of marketing tools throughout June. Their Homeownership Month Toolkit includes social media content, digital assets, and email templates, all designed to help agents and brokers share the value of homeownership with their clients and communities.

These tools are ideal for real estate professionals who want to highlight the lasting impact a home can have on daily life, not just during a transaction, but for years after the keys are handed over.

At Elevated Life Realty, LLC, we believe every home represents more than square footage or a transaction. It's a foundation for routines, rest, and reflection, something we’ve seen time and again in the Ridgefield area and beyond. With over 14 years of experience serving Connecticut homebuyers and sellers, Amy Mosley and our team continue to support every step of the homeownership journey with insight, honesty, and a deep commitment to our clients’ long-term success.

Creating a thoughtful business plan isn’t just about crunching numbers, it’s about defining who you are, how you serve, and what makes your real estate business truly unique. Whether you’re revisiting your 2025 strategy or just getting started, incorporating personal clarity into your planning can sharpen your focus and set you apart in a competitive market.

Define Who You Are, and Why It Matters

Start by identifying what you bring to the table as a real estate professional. Think beyond sales goals and consider your mission: what problems do you solve, and what kind of experience do you want to create for your clients? This step is especially useful if you're carving out a niche market or planning to tailor your services.

This isn't just about branding, it's about alignment. When your goals reflect your personal and professional purpose, decision-making becomes easier and more effective.

Clarify the Core Values That Guide Your Work

Understanding your core values provides a compass for every choice you make, from the way you communicate with clients to how you resolve challenges and build trust. These values often reveal your deeper motivation.

For instance, you might gravitate toward supporting new homeowners, not just because it's a market opportunity, but because you believe in empowering long-term community growth. Your values should show up not only in what you say but also in how you serve.

Know Your Ideal Client Inside and Out

Who are you best equipped to help during a major financial decision like buying or selling a home? Defining your ideal client helps you craft marketing that resonates and relationships that last.

Explore questions like:

• What is their life stage or financial position?
  

• What motivates them to buy or sell?
  

• What are their top concerns about the process?
  

This clarity makes your outreach more strategic and your service more personalized. It also allows you to refine your messaging across all platforms, from listing presentations to social media.

A strong real estate business plan goes beyond transactions. It reflects your identity, values, and purpose. By defining what drives you and who you’re meant to serve, you’ll create a client experience that’s rooted in trust and intention. And that’s what truly sets professionals apart in today’s market.

In April 2025, the U.S. housing market saw a notable shift, sellers outnumber buyers by 33.7%, the widest margin in over ten years. With approximately 1.9 million active sellers and only 1.5 million potential buyers, this growing divide marks a pivotal change in how today’s market behaves and how professionals, like our team at Elevated Life Realty, guide clients through it.

What the Numbers Say

Nationwide trends show that seller activity is on the rise. At the same time, buyer participation is cooling. According to recent data:

• The seller pool exceeds buyers by over 400,000.
  

• Condominium listings are especially impacted, with an 83.5% surplus of sellers compared to active buyers.
  

• Miami, FL tops the list of cities with the largest gap, there, sellers nearly triple the number of buyers.
  

• Other metro areas experiencing similar trends include Fort Lauderdale, Jacksonville, Orlando, West Palm Beach, Austin, Phoenix, and Las Vegas.
  

Why Sellers Outnumber Buyers in 2025

Several economic shifts are influencing this imbalance:

1. Interest Rates Remain Elevated
   Higher mortgage rates are prompting more hesitation among potential buyers, especially first-timers who may be more sensitive to monthly payment changes.
   

2. Pricing Pressure
   Many home values continue to hover near peak levels, making affordability a concern in numerous markets. Buyers are either delaying purchases or adjusting expectations.
   

3. Broader Economic Uncertainty
   From inflation concerns to job market volatility, many households are choosing to pause major financial decisions, home buying included.
   

This creates a scenario where homes stay on the market longer, and sellers need to adjust both strategy and pricing to remain competitive.

How This Impacts You

If you're selling:
You’re entering a buyer-leaning market where standing out requires more than just listing. Pricing accurately, enhancing property presentation, and working with an experienced agent who understands today’s shifting dynamics are all crucial.

If you're buying:
This environment offers more options and potentially more negotiating power. While interest rates remain a factor, there’s less competition and more room to explore what fits your goals best.

What Our Team at Elevated Life Realty Recommends

With over 14 years of experience guiding clients across Ridgefield and surrounding Connecticut towns, we stay attuned to changing market signals to help you:

• Price smartly and strategically in today's landscape
  

• Navigate negotiations with clarity and confidence
  

• Identify local trends before they reach the national headlines
  

We’re here to provide thoughtful, honest guidance, whether you’re preparing to sell, ready to buy, or simply weighing your options.

This shift in market balance isn’t a signal of collapse, it’s a signal of change. And with the right insight and planning, this evolving landscape creates room for both buyers and sellers to succeed.

At Elevated Life Realty, we’re committed to walking with you through every market, balanced or not, with experience you can trust and service you can count on.

Buyer confidence in the housing market is on the rise, according to Fannie Mae’s latest National Housing Survey. The data shows that both buyers and sellers are feeling more optimistic heading into summer, and this growing confidence may bring increased activity to local markets like Ridgefield and surrounding towns.

At Elevated Life Realty, LLC, we keep a close eye on national trends so our clients can make informed decisions in real time. Whether you’re planning to buy, sell, or simply watch the market, the latest numbers offer some encouraging insights.

May’s Housing Sentiment Index Reflects a Positive Shift

The Home Purchase Sentiment Index (HPSI), a measure of how consumers feel about the housing market, rose to 73.5 in May 2025, up 4.3 points from April and 4.1 points higher than this time last year. This increase signals growing optimism across the board.

Seller Confidence Is Also On the Rise

More homeowners now believe it’s a good time to sell. This could lead to more inventory hitting the market in the coming months, which may help ease competition among buyers.

While market conditions are still competitive, an increase in seller participation could bring more balance and offer additional options for those actively looking to purchase.

Shifting Views on Mortgage Rates

One of the most notable changes in the survey: more Americans now believe mortgage rates may decline. While there’s no guarantee, this change in outlook may motivate some hesitant buyers to reenter the market or accelerate their timelines before rates potentially shift again.

At Elevated Life Realty, we guide clients through financing conversations early so they can respond quickly to market changes.

Expectations for Home Prices Remain Strong

Nearly half of all survey respondents expect home prices to increase over the next 12 months. At the same time, fewer people think prices will decline, which indicates continued belief in long-term market stability.

This sentiment may influence buyers to act sooner rather than wait, especially in areas like Ridgefield, where demand often outpaces supply.

Job Security Helping to Strengthen Confidence

Another positive trend: fewer people are concerned about job loss, which plays a major role in consumer confidence. When buyers feel secure financially, they’re more likely to explore homeownership, even in a shifting interest rate environment.

For sellers, this may mean a more reliable pool of serious, qualified buyers as we move deeper into the summer season.

The rising buyer and seller confidence reported in May 2025 suggests we could see a more active housing market in the coming months. Whether you're considering making a move now or planning ahead, staying informed is essential.

With over 15 years of experience in Ridgefield and neighboring Connecticut towns, Amy Mosley and the team at Elevated Life Realty, LLC are here to offer honest guidance and personalized service every step of the way.

When the market changes, our commitment to you stays the same, expert advice grounded in integrity, backed by local knowledge, and always focused on your goals.

At Elevated Life Realty, LLC, we know that real estate decisions and tax planning often go hand in hand. With major updates introduced in the federal tax law for 2025, it’s the perfect time to understand how these changes affect your financial strategy—especially if you're buying, selling, or investing in Connecticut’s housing market. Below, we break down the most important takeaways for homeowners, small business owners, and real estate investors across our region.

A More Predictable Tax Landscape with Permanent Rates

The current tax brackets—ranging from 10% to 37%—are now permanent. For most families earning under $400,000 annually, this offers a stable, long-term framework for tax planning. While higher earners will see no additional rate reductions, this permanence allows more confident decisions moving into 2026 and beyond.

Standard Deductions Are On the Rise

Taxpayers will see an increase in standard deductions starting in 2025. Married couples filing jointly can now claim around $30,000, single filers will deduct $15,750, and head of household filers will also see a slight boost. These increases help more households lower taxable income—though many in high-tax areas may now benefit more from itemizing, especially with the next major change.

The SALT Deduction Shift: A Game Changer for High-Tax Areas

As illustrated in the image below, the SALT (State and Local Tax) deduction cap has been raised from $10,000 to $40,000 through 2029—a major shift that favors states like Connecticut where property and income taxes are significant.

For many local homeowners, this means the return of itemized deductions that may now surpass the standard deduction. Middle- and upper-middle-income households—especially those paying both property and state income taxes—stand to gain the most. Investors should also take note: the raised cap could drive increased demand in suburban and multifamily housing, as affordability paired with larger tax savings becomes more appealing.

This change is a standout for communities in Ridgefield, Brookfield, and similar towns where property taxes alone often exceed the old $10,000 limit. At Elevated Life Realty, we’re already guiding clients through this shift to help them optimize timing and tax benefits related to buying, selling, or holding property.

Seniors and Fixed-Income Households Receive Added Relief

For individuals aged 65 and older, an additional $6,000 deduction is now available. This can significantly reduce taxable income, though it begins phasing out at around $70,000 of annual income. If your primary income comes from Social Security, you may also owe little to no tax at all, depending on other income sources.

Family and Education Benefits See Major Enhancements

The Child Tax Credit has been raised to $2,200 per child, and families with children born between 2025 and 2028 may qualify for a MAGAC account—a federally backed savings plan that starts with a $1,000 government contribution and allows families to add up to $5,000 annually. These funds grow tax-free and can be used for education, business startup costs, or a first home purchase beginning at age 18.

In addition, 529 education plans can now be used for up to $20,000 per year on K–12 tuition, books, tutoring, and vocational school expenses. This expanded flexibility makes it easier for parents and grandparents to support educational needs with greater tax efficiency.

Homeownership and Vehicle Costs Get Tax Support

Two long-absent deductions have returned: mortgage insurance premiums (PMI) and vehicle loan interest. PMI is now deductible for those who itemize, making it more favorable for buyers who put down less than 20%. Likewise, interest on vehicle loans is deductible—if the vehicle is assembled in the U.S. These changes make home and vehicle ownership more affordable at a time when rates remain elevated.

Wage-Based Tax Breaks for Tipped Workers and Overtime Earners

Employees in service, hospitality, and hourly roles will see new savings. The first $25,000 of tipped income is now tax-free, and overtime income up to $12,500 (single) or $25,000 (joint) is also exempt from federal tax. Employers are expected to handle reporting, while employees enjoy larger net earnings.

Tax Advantages Expand for Small Business Owners and Investors

Business owners will benefit from a 23% Qualified Business Income (QBI) deduction, up from 20%. This reduces taxable profits for LLCs, sole proprietors, and other eligible entities. Investors in rental properties can also take advantage of 100% bonus depreciation for qualifying property improvements—lowering their tax liability for the year those expenses are incurred.

If you offer medical stipends or insurance to 1099 contractors, those payments can be reported as income and still deducted—creating a net-zero tax impact if structured correctly. Our team encourages you to consult with a tax advisor to ensure compliance while maximizing savings.

Charitable Giving Just Got Easier

Starting in 2026, taxpayers can deduct up to $1,000 (single) or $2,000 (married) in charitable contributions even without itemizing. This above-the-line deduction gives households more incentive to give, while still preserving itemized deductions for those with larger donation histories.

Limitations on Gambling Losses and International Transfers

Taxpayers who report gambling winnings may now only deduct losses up to 90% of the winnings. Additionally, a 3.5% excise tax will apply to money transferred to foreign accounts starting in 2026, though real estate transactions abroad are generally exempt.

Last Call for Electric Vehicle Credits

If you're considering purchasing an electric vehicle, the clock is ticking. Federal tax credits for EVs will expire after September 30, 2025, so now is the time to explore options before incentives fade.

Elevated Life Realty, LLC

The 2025 federal tax law brings expanded deductions, clearer guidelines, and more strategic opportunities for Connecticut homeowners and investors. Whether you're reviewing your real estate portfolio, planning to relocate, or growing a business, these updates can make a meaningful impact on your bottom line.

At Elevated Life Realty, we don’t just sell homes—we help clients navigate life’s transitions with confidence, clarity, and care. We work closely with your financial team to ensure every real estate decision is aligned with your greater goals.

Inheriting a home often comes with a mix of emotions—grief, responsibility, and uncertainty. Beyond sentimental value, the process involves legal steps, financial planning, and decisions that can quickly become overwhelming. Whether you're currently navigating an inheritance or preparing for one, understanding your options can ease the journey. At Elevated Life Realty, LLC, our goal is to support you through every step with clarity and care.

Understand What You've Inherited

Before making any decisions, take a moment to pause. There’s no immediate rush, especially when a home holds emotional significance. Begin by gathering essential paperwork to help clarify the situation. This includes the will or trust that outlines inheritance intentions, any mortgage documents to verify remaining debt, the homeowner’s insurance policy, recent utility bills, local tax records, and the official deed or title to confirm legal ownership. These documents will help you understand what you’ve inherited, any obligations tied to the property, and what actions may be required next.

Clarify Legal Ownership

In most cases, inheriting a home through a will requires the estate to pass through probate—a court process that validates the legal transfer of ownership. If the property was held in a trust, that process is usually faster and simpler. To avoid complications, particularly when multiple heirs are involved or ownership details are unclear, it's wise to consult a probate attorney or estate planning professional. Their expertise can help ensure that the transition is handled properly and in compliance with all local legal requirements.

Explore Your Options for the Property

Once ownership is legally transferred, you’ll need to decide what to do with the home. There are generally three primary options: move in, sell, or rent.

If the home suits your current living needs and financial situation, moving in might be a practical decision. You’ll want to consider whether there is still an active mortgage, evaluate any needed repairs or renovations, and factor in ongoing maintenance and insurance costs.

If the property no longer fits your needs—or if you’re sharing the inheritance with others—selling the home might be the most straightforward solution. Preparing the property for sale involves getting a professional appraisal to determine market value, addressing necessary repairs or cosmetic updates, and sorting through any remaining personal belongings. Partnering with a real estate agent can provide critical guidance on pricing, marketing, and negotiating the sale with respect and professionalism.

Alternatively, if you’re not ready to sell or move in, you might consider renting the home to generate income. This option requires readiness to take on landlord responsibilities, comply with local rental laws, and potentially engage a property manager to oversee tenant relations and upkeep.

Know the Financial Implications

Inheriting a home also brings financial responsibilities that should not be overlooked. Property taxes may be reassessed based on the home’s current market value, and if you eventually sell, capital gains taxes could apply. However, inherited properties often benefit from a "step-up" in cost basis, which can reduce your taxable gain if the sale happens shortly after inheritance. It’s also important to plan for routine expenses like mortgage payments (if still applicable), insurance premiums, utility bills, and ongoing maintenance. Consulting a tax advisor can help you make informed financial decisions and avoid unexpected liabilities.

You Don’t Have to Navigate This Alone

Inheriting a home is more than a legal event—it’s a personal journey that can carry emotional weight and practical challenges. Whether you decide to move in, sell the home, or rent it out, the key is knowing that you have support available. At Elevated Life Realty, LLC, we understand the sensitivity of these situations and are here to help you explore your options, evaluate the property, and move forward with confidence. When you’re ready, we’re just a conversation away.

Understanding the Shift in Fairfield County’s Market

The real estate landscape across Fairfield County is undergoing a noticeable transformation. Rather than signaling a downturn, this change marks a return to balance—a market environment that reflects more typical conditions compared to the competitive frenzy of recent years. For homeowners in Ridgefield, Danbury, Brookfield, and surrounding towns, this presents both new considerations and timely advantages. If you're thinking about selling, now is the time to understand what’s shifting—and how to respond.

Inventory Is Rising: What Sellers Should Expect

Active listings are increasing across Fairfield County, giving buyers a broader selection and shifting the dynamics of negotiation. As of May 2025, the number of single-family homes on the market rose by 8.6% year-over-year, reaching 1,554 active listings, while condo and townhouse inventory surged by 19.7%.

Although demand remains steady in some neighborhoods, urgency has cooled. Many buyers are now taking a more deliberate approach. Sellers who want to stand out must take steps beyond simply listing—such as working with a local real estate expert who understands the nuances of micro-market trends in areas like Ridgefield or Bethel.

The Power of Pricing in a Balanced Market

With more homes competing for buyer attention, pricing has become a critical factor in how quickly and successfully a property sells. In Fairfield County, the average single-family sales price climbed to $1,262,668—up 15.5% from the previous year.

Despite these price increases, buyers remain highly price-aware. Homes that are accurately priced from the outset tend to generate more interest, receive better offers, and spend less time on the market. Overpricing, on the other hand, often leads to extended listing periods and eventual reductions—something today’s data-savvy buyers recognize quickly.

Concessions Are Returning: A Smart Strategy for Sellers

Buyer expectations have shifted, and many are no longer forgoing inspections or offering well over asking price. Instead, concessions like credits toward closing costs or negotiated repairs are becoming part of the conversation again. For sellers, these adjustments can still lead to strong outcomes—especially considering home values remain over 55% higher than they were five years ago.

Strategic flexibility can help bridge the gap between seller expectations and buyer caution without compromising net proceeds.

Why Sellers Still Have a Strong Position

This is not a weakening market—it’s a realignment. Current conditions resemble those from 2018–2019, where steady demand, realistic pricing, and well-prepared homes consistently led to successful transactions.

Sellers willing to approach this market with intention and insight are seeing positive results. Those who succeed typically:

• Price competitively from day one

• Study the local competition and market activity

• Stage and maintain their homes for maximum appeal

• Engage in thoughtful negotiations with buyers

Strategy Matters More Than Ever

Fairfield County’s real estate market is evolving, and with that evolution comes opportunity—especially for sellers who are prepared to meet the moment with the right game plan. Elevated Life Realty, LLC brings over 14 years of local expertise to help you interpret current trends, avoid costly missteps, and make confident decisions.

If you’re considering selling this season or preparing for a future move, Amy Mosley and her team are ready to guide you every step of the way—with clear advice, professional insight, and a strategy grounded in results.

Contact Amy Mosley at Elevated Life Realty, LLC today for your private consultation.
Amy Mosley-Sledge | Broker | Owner
(203) 871-0618
YourHomeSoldCT.com

There’s something magical about summer evenings – string lights overhead, a cool drink in hand, and your favorite people gathered around. Whether you’re planning a casual barbecue, birthday bash, or spontaneous get-together, throwing an outdoor event can be one of the best ways to enjoy your home.

Here’s how to host a gathering that’s fun, relaxed, and easy to pull off – while still keeping things smooth with your surroundings.

Set the Scene with Style and Simplicity

You don’t need a sprawling patio or designer setup to make your space feel welcoming. A few comfortable chairs, some ambient lighting (think string lights or lanterns), and a tidy lawn or patio can set the tone. Add a playlist and some easy snacks, and your space is party-ready.

Hosting tip: Set up distinct “zones” – a food station, a conversation nook, a spot for games or kids – to help guests flow easily and feel at home.

Make Guests Feel Instantly Welcome

Outdoor entertaining is all about casual comfort. Greet guests with a cool beverage, offer sunscreen or bug spray if needed, and point out where to stash bags or find the bathroom. If you’re grilling or cooking outside, prep what you can in advance so you’re not stuck flipping burgers while everyone else is relaxing.

Keep the Party Comfortable – Even in the Heat

Summer sun is fun until it isn’t. Offer shade (umbrellas, pop-up canopies, or a string of light fabric between trees), keep drinks cold, and consider fans or misters if the forecast is toasty. For evening gatherings, add a few throws in case it gets breezy.

Be a Thoughtful Host...and a Neighbor

Your backyard is your oasis – but sound travels. Keeping music at a conversational level, wrapping up festivities before it gets too late, and a quick text or friendly mention to your neighbors if it’ll be a larger event can go a long way and shows you care about the community around you. It’s not about following rules – it’s about keeping the good vibes going after the party ends.

Bonus: A quick cleanup the next morning helps your yard (and any shared spaces) stay welcoming and guest-ready for next time.

Don’t Stress Perfection – Focus on Connection

Outdoor gatherings are meant to feel easy and fun. Guests won’t remember if your napkins matched – what they’ll remember is the relaxed vibe, the laughter, and how welcome they felt in your home.

If your home’s outdoor space could use a refresh – or you’re dreaming of a place that’s better suited for entertaining – I’d be happy to help you explore your options. Until then, happy hosting