Dan Kuhn's Blog

Sterling Woods, Danbury, CT

Dan Kuhn (William Pitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 12:57:31 -0800

Sterling Woods is a prestigious condominium complex located in the Stadley Rough neighborhood in Danbury, CT. Planning and construction began in the mid 80's, with the project being completed in two sections, now referred to as the original and the new sections. It became two sections which the original builder died. This section consists of 80 units on Brittania Drive. This section has it own pool and clubhouse, which are the first ones you see on the right as you enter.

The newer section consists of 358 units constructed in the late 1990s. Located on a 130 acre hillside plot just north of Federal Road, this section also has a pool, clubhouse with exercise room and jogging trails.

The main entrance to the Sterling Woods is at the intersection of Nabby and Palmer Roads. It is located north of Federal Road and is entered on Silversmith Drive. The additional streets in the community are: Brittania Drive, Heartwood Lane, Bradford Drive, Revere Road, Hancock Drive, Pinnacle Way, Cypress Drive and Logging Trail Road.

Whether you prefer the older or newer section, Sterling Woods is a nice affordable luxury townhome community. With over 400 units, it is one of the largest communities in Danbury. Many prefer the older section with more privacy and a different style of unit. The newer section has its advocates with more variety and newer units. Each section has its own association and a different fee structure.

An additional attraction to Sterling Woods is the location. Everything from shopping, dining option or easy access to Routes 7 and I-84 are 3 minutes away.

If you've been looking for a newer affordable luxury townhome on Danbury, contact me to set up an appointment to see what's waiting for you in this resort like community, in a convenient location in Northern Fairfield County.

Visit my web site at DanKuhnRealtor.com for information about myself or email me at Dan@DanKuhnRealtor.com

Streamlined FHA Renovation Process Financing

Dan Kuhn (William Pitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 15:42:50 -0800

I normally do not write about financing matters but I learned this week about a financing program that can change to some extent how people may look at a house or condo that needs work. The FHA along with Wells Fargo are offering a streamlined 203 (K) renovation financing plan. Here are several key components:

Loan amounts up to 110% of the home's appraised value; renovation amounts up to $35,000
This money can be used for plumbing, windows,doors insulation or septic work
It can not be used to remove or add walls
The loan amount is based on the value of your home after the work is done
Easier guidelines make this process fast and easy
If you use an FHA approved contractor, they pay the bills and only after you signed off that the work has been

I believe that this enables a buyer to look at a house that needs work. With this plan the necessary improvements are planned and financed with a contractor ready to start as soon as the closing is over. The contractor is on a fixed fee contract, motivated to finish on time and on budget!

Couple this with an $8,000 first time homeowners tax credit

Contact me and I will put you in the hands of a lender who knows this program

Casagmo Complex, Ridgefield, CT

Dan Kuhn (William Pitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 19:09:57 -0800

In 1967, David Paul developed the 285 unit complex now known as the Casagmo Condominiums Ridgefield, CT. Mr. Paul's idea was to allow people to live in Ridgefield who might not otherwise be able to afford to. With the median home for sale currently at $xxx,xxx, the condos at Casagmo are still an outstanding way to enjoy Ridgefield at a reasonable cost. The ideal customer profile not only includes young people and first time home but old-timers who no longer need or can maintain houses in town.

Connecticut Magazine has ranked the town of Ridgefield as having a high quality of life. In the southwest corner of Connecticut is the township of Ridgefield, located in Fairfield County, and is considered my many to be the gateway to New England. Ridgefield is a short commute to New York City, making this area a perfect home for many different types of lifestyles.

The Main Street of Ridgefield is one the town's most popular locations. Main Street is lined with charming historic homes, towering maple trees, stone walls, 3 blocks of shops and restaurants, and wonderful old churches, complete with steeples. Main Street also holds many of the town's annual events, such as the Memorial Day Parade, the Holiday Stroll in December as well as church fairs such as the Nutmeg Festival which takes place every August to raise money for charity.

Located just a short stroll from the enchanting Main Street of this wonderful New England town, Casagmo offers a nice blend of single-level homes and townhomes. Truly an excellent vantage point to enjoy all that Ridgefield has to offer! Casagmo has new tennis courts, a playground, swimming pool and a great clubhouse shown here.

Advice to buyers

Dan Kuhn (William Pitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 14:15:11 -0700

When you are preparing to buy, there are several steps that each buyer should consider.

Determine today what you can pay for anyplace, anywhere.
When you find a match to the property you want, understand what you are willing to pay for that house/condo. This can be a less than the maximum you can afford. For example, let's say the most money you can pay for anything is $320,000. If the price is $365,000 you can't afford it. If the price is $250,000 but it needs $60,000 of work you can offer it.
Before placing an offer. Know where you want to start and where you can end up.
All number crunching should be done now. They are what they are. If your salary changes than adjust the numbers.
Understand that the market has been active at $350,000 and under and most of the "deals" are gone. Think 3% to 5% under asking price.
When you find what you want you must act decisively and quickly. If you have the plan in place before you make the offer, you can be anywhere and you and your Realtor can execute the plan. Other buyers are have already determined their plan and will act quickly and decisively, thus beating you out.
When you complete your plan, review it with a financial person of your choice and incorporate any appropriate suggestions. This is a sanity check to make sure you are on the right track. This is another why to get pre-approved.
The buyer who is prepared has the best chance to succeed.

High Meadows Condominiums

Dan Kuhn (William Pitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 09:54:32 -0700

If you are looking for one of the nicest condo complexes in Brookfield, High Meadow must be on your list. This jewel is located right off Rt. 133, just south of the Brookfield Center. High Meadow consists of 87 acres of land with just 79 units. Over 20 acres is untouched woods have been set aside to enhance the natural setting, which also features a pond. The main entrance is onto Ledgewood Drive and the landscaping will catch your eye.

There are different styles of units available to choose from, ranging from 2 bedroom contemporaries designed townhouses with some units layouts including features such as lofts, finished basements and 2 car garages, to 3 bedroom detached carriage homes Some of the units even have available main level master bedroom suites, walk out basements and main level dens. Each unit is a little different based on the exact "Lay of the Land". The construction of these units was completed in the early 1990s.

There are currently 5 units for sale, one is a 3 bedroom and for are 2 bedrooms. Prices range from $279,900 to $345,900.

Brookfield combines the flavor of a small New England town at Brookfield Center with modern services and shopping conveniences and close proximity to interstate I84. It is known for its excellent schools, reasonable taxes, outstanding recreational facilities and superb commuting routes to Westchester and lower Fairfield County.

The High Meadow Association is responsible for the buildings, close-in landscaping, general administration of the community and other common interest factors. Their web site is http://highmeadowhoa.com

The High Meadow Tax District is responsible for the roads, water, sewer, common grounds and amenities like the pool and tennis courts. The district was formed to save home owners money by having allowable shared costs be tax deductible.

If you are interested in learning more, call me at 203 770-9920 or email me at dkuhn@wpsir.com

Lexington Mews, Danbury, CT

Dan Kuhn (William Pitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 16:04:14 -0700

Lexington Mews is located in Danbury, CT just beyond the intersection of Federal Road and I84. It is two minutes to I84 for easy commuting in any direction including Westchester County in New York. Federal Road is a shopping Mecca for furniture and food buyers as a few minutes to the Danbury Mall for more shopping and restaurants. Nestled in a private area just west of Good Shepherd Hills, all 140 units are on Eaton Court. A tree lined entrance sets the tone for this beautiful neighborhood. The Mews features a heated in ground pool, tennis court and a playground for the children, all available on the premises. You can relax on the weekends or take walks for exercise and enjoying nature.

There is an active social life in this community, including the annual pool party, which gives the residents a chance to get acquainted with each other and make new friends. Families are diverse including seniors, singles and couples living throughout the community. There is an association which hosts a website, www.lexingtonmews.com, which contains helpful information concerning Community Events, Condo Association Activities, Rules & Regulations, the Board of Directors, photos of the community, and much more.

The landscaping in the community is well maintained and makes Lexington Mews one of the most beautiful communities in the Danbury area. The buildings, decks, and roads as well as all other aspects of the community are also well maintained. Excellent management also results in low common charges

There are several different floor plans ranging from townhomes with two bedrooms to three bedrooms units with a main level master suite. All units feature central air, gas heat, 2 car garage, deck or patio and washer dryers.

As of late September, there are 3 Townhouses for sale ranging from $359,900 to $379,900. For more please contact me at dkuhn@wpsir.com or call me at 203 770-9920.

Listingbook

Dan Kuhn (William Pitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 08:23:35 -0700

Recently our local MLS made an application called Listingbook available to us. It is one of the best tools for buyers and sellers to use at no cost. It gives potential clients the power to search the MLS, change criteria and have control of their own search. The feedback I have received has been very positive and I would encourage all agents in this area to learn and use Listingbook.

Antique home for sale and I need your help!

Dan Kuhn (William Pitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:28:42 -0700

I have a home for sale in New Milford, CT. The house was built in 1741, however we have no proof that George Washington ever slept there. It is truly a gem with 2 fireplaces. wide plank floors and all the charm of an Antique. My problem is how to market this property. Open houses seem to do me no good. I am starting an ad in Antique Homes magazine in May but I have been unable to locate other venues that I can advertise in. Does anyone have experience with marketing antique homes?

Thanks in advance for your help!

Negative attitudes are killing me!

Dan Kuhn (William Pitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Thu, 17 Apr 2008 19:22:34 -0700

I am new the blogging so I read many blogs without commenting. Tonight however, I noticed a trend in many places that stress everything that is wrong about Real Estate, the towm you live, mortgage rates, etc. I just do not have the energy to deal with Realtors who bad mouth everything.

If you want to be negative than get out of the business! Yes, we have to work harder and smarter! But it is our business to succeed or to fail in. I love it and can't wait to get up tomorrow. What say you?

Expired listings

Dan Kuhn (William Pitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Sun, 16 Mar 2008 10:52:14 -0700

I have spent a lot of time recently going after expired listings with limited success, I am wondering if anyone has an approach that has wprked successfully for them. I run into a lot of people who are on the "do not call" list so I have been sending out many letters and following up on those until I know it is a lost cause. I would love to hear some good ideas.

Is the current political campaign hurting sales?

Dan Kuhn (William Pitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 16:45:09 -0800

There are several reasons why sales have slowed up in the past year. I wonder if the current campaign has people unsure whether to buy or not. I think it is clear without taking sides that that the possible candidates will be on different sides of the political sprectum.

So I wonder if this contributes to a "wait and see' attitude. Your thoughts please.

Antique home for sale

Dan Kuhn (William Pitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Tue, 26 Feb 2008 18:31:23 -0800

I have listed an Amntique home built if 1741 for sale in New Milford, CT. It is listed on Realtor.com for $389,000. and is quite a place. It is a blend of the old and the new and is worth a look.

Market activity

Dan Kuhn (William Pitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Sat, 16 Feb 2008 08:08:12 -0800

The market appears to really be picking up in the Greater Danbury area. Many properties are going CTS, buyers are beginning to be serious and I am sure it will be a terrific year. The reductions in the interest rates has really helped.

Interest rates

Dan Kuhn (William Pitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Wed, 30 Jan 2008 20:01:26 -0800

With today's interest cut, is this encouraging buyers?

What is a good background to become a Realtor?

Dan Kuhn (William Pitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Mon, 21 Jan 2008 13:25:05 -0800

I am in my third year as a Realtor and it is my third career. I started my first career with IBM, working in a variety of positions for twenty eight years before retiring. I than became a consultant working with Calll Centers and like customer service organizations. When this ended in 2004 I decided that I wanted to work in Real Estate. In many ways, my work experience centered on providing what I think is a key element in becoming a successful Realtor.

I wonder if anyone has any thoughts on what is a good background?