CTDirt

Battle Brewing Over Real Estate Conveyance Tax -- Courant.com

Many sellers are bewildered when they get to the closing table to find they must pay the town an extra 0.25% for no apparent reason. Even if they paid their property taxes they still get zinged with this additional tax. This real estate conveyance tax was originally enacted to provide some temporary funds to struggling towns and then cease to exist in 2004 (that was how they were able to sell it to the public as good bill). However, the State of Connecticut continues to extend it and towns have taken it for granted.

James Finley, the lobbyist for the Connecticut Conference of Municipalities (yes, towns hire lobbyists with your tax money to collect more tax money) states that if Realtors are really concerned about the financial health of citizens we should just lower our commissions.

Mr. Finley is completely out of line. Realtors are concerned because it is our job and responsibility to watch out for consumers. We see their reaction when they find out the government is taking away even more of their money. We as Realtors feel that if you pay your property taxes you are already giving your town everything they need.

If you think this tax is unfair, let your representative know! If you're not sure who your rep is or how to contact them, use this link:

Find Your CT State Rep

Battle Brewing Over Real Estate Conveyance Tax -- Courant.com

Actual Picture From Actual Windsor Listing

I'm not sure which feature they are really trying to highlight. However, that is the most interesting wood stove I have ever seen! This comes courtesy of SSG Real Estate.

Curb Appeal In The Winter?

Yes, it is nasty, cold, wet, and unpleasant outside. No one can see your meticulously maintained lawn and flower beds. How can you get the edge with curb appeal in the winter?

Here are some thoughts:

1. Make sure your home is completely accessible - keep all walkways and any stairs ice and snow free.
2. Find creative ways to use color. This is easy around the holidays, but don't take everything down and not replace it with some other appropriate seasonal decorations. Need ideas - just stop by Michael's or another decorating store and walk around a little.
3. Since it is darker earlier and many buyers will be looking after regular work hours, make sure your property is well illuminated. You may want to add some additional spotlights (like the exterior ones they sell around the holidays).
4. Be sure you take down those holiday decorations. No one wants to see a Santa on the front steps in March!

Don't give up on the exterior of your house even if it is the winter. Curb appeal is always important so make your first impression your best one!

The Windsor CT Railroad Bridge

If you know Windsor then you know this bridge. I caught this shot the morning after the recent snowstorm. I really like how you can see the reflection of the train in the still water.

WWW - Winter Windsor Weather

There is really something nice about a little snow. This is the famous war memorial statue on the Windsor town green near the library during the last snowstorm we got.