The Coastal Allure of Connecticut: Luxury Living in the Suburbs

By Coldwell Banker Global Luxury By Coldwell Banker Global Luxury | September 12, 2022 | Home & Real Estate, Sponsored Post, Home & Real Estate Feature, Home & Real Estate, CB Trends,

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Having served the Westport and Fairfield communities for nearly two decades, Coldwell Banker Global Luxury real estate broker Cindy Raney is an authoritative voice on the luxury real estate market of Connecticut’s Gold Coast. Blending character and charm for the nation’s most affluent families, these two upscale neighborhoods have rapidly grown in demand in recent years. For those seeking to enjoy the perks of serene suburban living while remaining close to New York City, Cindy Raney & Team serve as the ultimate matchmakers between eager buyers and sellers in an increasingly competitive housing market.

In traditional New England fashion, Westport and Fairfield residents revel in the leisure of coastal living. Picture Gatsby-esque estates of brick and stone coupled with modern transitional new construction, high-end shopping at luxury department stores and bespoke boutiques, and a plethora of public beaches that exude an utmost private feel. Just 50 miles from New York City and a 2-hour drive from Boston, residents are primely situated in the middle of two Northeast metropolises. These are just a few reasons why Connecticut's Gold Coast is attracting city residents who desire a comfortable yet cosmopolitan-like suburban lifestyle.

Aspiring homeowners also have the opportunity to decide which area of these two towns best matches their dream home. “Residents can choose between living along the coastline or amongst the rolling hills, a waterfront estate or a core in-land property which is quite idyllic,” explains Raney.

Raney is regularly called upon by Westport and Fairfield residents for her keen eye on local market trends. Here are a few insights Raney shares for Connecticut buyers and sellers alike to consider:

  • “The Work-From-Home model is here to stay,” she says. “There is a tremendous migration from New York City and even California to Fairfield County since professionals no longer need to live within a small radius from their office.”
  • Raney explains that homes valued at $3 million and above are selling now more than ever. According to Raney, through July 2022 there has been a dramatic increase in $3mm+ homes sold (Fairfield, +89%, and Westport, +65%) over 2021, which up to this point had been considered a benchmark year for real estate in Fairfield County.
  • “Those who own luxury properties in Fairfield County should consider selling now as high net-worth buyers are willing to spend more on a home,” she explains. “A Westport home estimated at $1.3 million in 2019 is worth roughly $2.4 million today.”

Before opening her real estate firm in partnership with Coldwell Banker Global Luxury, Raney had a successful financial career on Wall Street with Merrill Lynch. Like many city expats, Raney decided to return to Fairfield County for an increased quality of life, family time and a flexible work schedule. Her knack for numbers paired with a love for her newfound community led to a personal passion for all things real estate.

In 2018, her fellow Managing Partner, and husband, Jason H. Mudd, joined forces with Cindy after his own 15+ year career in banking. Since joining, he has helped expand Raney's marke presence by hiring additional support staff and dedicated agents. To date, Raney has sold over half a billion dollars in residential real estate which has distinguished her as a Top 1% agent nationally within Coldwell Banker Global Luxury.

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An expansive property in Cindy Raney’s residential portfolio

The achievements of Cindy Raney & Team are credited to their fundamental belief that relationships should be prioritized over transactions. “Cindy goes the extra mile to be inclusive of new residents; she ensures each client feels truly welcome by connecting them within the community,” says Mudd.

From school systems and country clubs to Mommy & Me groups, Raney ensures each of her clients is further immersed into Fairfield County’s social scene. Her team additionally utilizes her vast network to find coveted homes that have yet to hit the market. “Whether there is a limited inventory of available homes or a buyer with specific expectations, my deeply rooted relationships in Fairfield County give us a strong advantage as a real estate team,” she says.

Architectural Masterpiece in an Exclusive Enclave

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A landscape view of 1111 Sasco Hill Road currently listed for $6.95 million

Magnificent water views, easy access to the beach and ultimate privacy define Sasco Point as one of the most coveted neighborhoods in Fairfield County. A nod to the Vanderbilt’s Shelburne Farms property on Lake Champlain, 1111 Sasco Hill Road is a modern-day masterpiece designed by renowned architect Jack Franzen in the Queen Anne Victorian style. The charming 15,000-square-foot property sits on three acres overlooking Long Island Sound, while offering an intimate feel amidst the 9 bedrooms and 12 full bathrooms.

Ideal for the host with the most, 1111 Sasco Hill Road is a prime space for entertaining friends and family. From an 8-car garage, posh movie theater and outdoor pool to a 2 bedroom, 2 bath private guest suite in the third-floor tower, there is no shortage of space to make unforgettable memories with those you love.

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The backyard pool and hot tub with a prime water view backdrop of this Sasco Point home

Selling a home can be an emotional journey, especially for many Westport and Fairfield residents who’ve lived in their homes for decades. Raney understands how parting ways from your beloved home and heading into the next chapter of life can feel overwhelming. Within her full concierge service, Raney and her team are readily available, managing every step of your selling process from staging and professional photography to exclusive showings for the unique buyer that best suits you.

When managing partners Raney and Mudd are not showcasing luxury properties, the two are dedicated to their local philanthropic endeavors. Raney is currently involved with Friends of Pediatrics, a Fairfield affiliate organization of Yale New Haven Bridgeport Hospital that raises funds for children's medical and behavioral care. Mudd sits on the Foundation Board for Yale New Haven Bridgeport Hospital and recently chaired the Fairfield Historical Museum’s Finance Committee.

For more information on buying and selling opportunities with Cindy Raney & Team in Fairfield County, visit cindyraney.com, and for more information on additional global luxury properties, visit coldwellbankerluxury.com.



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