At Thanksgiving time, it's traditional to count our blessings. Especially this year, people who live in places they love are grateful for that, since they are spending more time there than ever. As the weather gets colder, and more time is spent indoors, it becomes even more important.
Thousands of years ago, and lasting almost to the present, a house was something you built yourself. Most didn't move far away from where they were born, and families were close by. These days, a family can be far flung, and only gather sometimes. That makes it even more important for a home to be a gathering place that attracts friends and relatives.
Second houses can fulfill that need as well. Particularly when they are in vacation locations, they can become the center of seasonal activities, year after year. Connecticut, especially with its long coastline, is well suited as a locale for family gathering places. Woods and water make for great recreational possibilities for all ages.
Greater New Haven is even more attractive for both primary and second homes, with commuting options and easy access from major cities along the Northeast corridor. Prices here have not risen the way some other places have seen, making it more affordable for buying now. While supply is tighter than it has been for a long time, there are still houses for sale at various price points.
The holidays are a wonderful time to make memories, and think about making future ones. If you love where you live, you are lucky! If there are features you wish you had, room you need for sheltering your pod, or outdoor space you crave, now is the time to plan for next year.
If where you live now sparks joy, as Marie Kundo puts it, then you are lucky. Enjoy your home, and practice gratitude, for you are in a place that will do more than serve as shelter. If you just moved, settle in. If you have lived in one house for many years, revel in the many memories of good times you've had there.
If living somewhere different is on your wish list, now is the time to do something about that. Planning will help us all to get through this isolated season, and give us something to look forward to in the future. Why not use this time to dream, and dream big? Whether you are increasing your down payment by staying inside this winter, or fixing up your current house for sale, focusing on the next step will improve your present state of mind.
Whichhever situation you find yourself in, we hope that your holidays are healthy and safe. And we'll be here to help, when you are ready to act.
