What to Know in Today's Market

What to Know

in Today’s Market

Architect: Alex Esposito

Capital Properties & Estates® 68 Arch Street • Greenwich, CT (203) 661-5400

Welcome Dear Clients and Friends, On behalf of the more than 60 real estate agents in the Greenwich office of Weichert Capital Properties & Estates, I would like to extend a warm greeting to you on the occasion of our magazine, What to Know in Today’s Market.

Like you, we all either own or aspire to own homes. We

Greenwich Coat of Arms

know firsthand—because buying and selling houses is our

Designed by Alexander Malcolm in 1940 to commemorate the 300th anniversary of Greenwich, the town seal bears the motto, “Fortitudine et Frugalitate,” referring to the courage and thrift it took to manage resources carefully.

business—that there is some unique quality when one enters a house that tells us all when a house has been transformed into a home. We all know it when we see it, but it is not easy to attain! Like an artist, each homeowner must “work the canvas” of his/her house until that house truly becomes his/ her home.

We hope that all the vendors who are represented in this magazine will give you the ideas and inspiration you need to envision the home of your dreams. We would be happy to be a part of the realization of that dream if buying, selling or looking for property to build on is the next step for you.

We also want to keep you up-to-date with the real estate market. The articles in this publication are a first step in keeping you abreast of current real estate trends.

Weichert Family of Companies Weichert, Realtors® Weichert Capital Properties & Estates® Weichert Commercial Brokerage, Inc. Weichert Corporate Housing Weichert Financial Services Weichert Gold® Services Weichert Insurance Agency, Inc. Weichert New Homes Weichert Referral Associates Co., Inc. Weichert Relocation Resources Inc.® Weichert Rental Network Weichert Title Agency

Please feel free to call at any time with questions about and requests for updated information on the current market.

Sincerely,

Elsie Pecorin Vice President Weichert Capital Properties & Estates of Greenwich

Capital Properties & Estates® 68 Arch Street • Greenwich, CT 06830 (203) 661-5400

Please see your local Gold Services Manager for complete details.

Cover Image: The Maples on Milbank (architectural rendering) Binney Park and Tod’s Point Photos © S. Dwyer 1

Contents

The Maples on Milbank

1 Welcome 4 Greenwich: A Mixture of Culture, Social Activities and Beautiful Surroundings

6 Villages of Greenwich 8 Business Index 10 With the Blink of an Eye...One Click Leads to Your Dream Home

12 I Still Believe in the Magic of Public Open Houses

14 Special Needs of Foreign Clients When Purchasing or Renting a Home

2

16 What You Need to Know before You Build or Renovate: Demystifying the Architect’s Role

20 The Realities of Selling a House in a Flood Hazard Zone

24 Homeowners Insurance: Your Policy Deductible and How It Impacts a Claim

26 Best Staging Tips 28 Closing Costs to Sell; Closing Costs in Fairfield County

30 Public Education 32 Independent Schools in Fairfield County and Nearby Westchester

34 Map of Greenwich, Conn., Residential Neighborhoods

36 New Green-Space Regulations in Greenwich

40 Town Facilities Contact Information

42 Advertisers

29 Closing Costs in New York vs.

Connecticut

An

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Greenwich

A Mixture of Culture, Social Activities and Beautiful Surroundings

4

Binney Park, Old Greenwich

T

hose fortunate enough to call Greenwich “home” enjoy a wonderful mix of culture, social activities and beautiful surroundings.

And like many Connecticut towns, Greenwich boasts a rich history dating back to pre-Colonial times. In 1640, settlers from the New Haven Colony purchased land from the Siwanoy Indians in the area now known as Old Greenwich. The newcomers carved out larger and larger land holdings where they grew potatoes, grain and fruit. Settlements grew along the shore, from Stamford on the east to the Byram River on the west and north to the border of New York State. By 1730, the 50 square miles that comprise present-day Greenwich were laid out.

For its first 200 years, the acquisition and cultivation of farm land were the major enterprises of residents, although grist mills signaled the beginnings of local industry, and active shipping was conducted from the Mianus River. The relative calm of these years was broken by the Revolutionary War. Greenwich was a garrison town that experienced occupation by both British and American armies as well as raids from irregulars. The seven-year-long war, fought on the roads and farms of Greenwich, destroyed homes, crops and human lives, and is an important part of the town’s history.

The coming of the railroad in 1848 marked a significant improvement in transportation and brought increasing numbers of new residents to Greenwich. The Irish came to work on the railroad and settled close to Greenwich Avenue, the town center. In an adjacent neighborhood called Chickahominy, Italian stonemasons congregated to be near the Byram quarries. Other Italians settled further east in North Mianus, where they worked in the Mianus Woolen Mill. The Germans went to Byram, then known as East Port Chester, and found work in the Abendroth Foundry. Glenville, on the Byram River, attracted Poles who worked in the felt mill and at Russell Burdsall & Ward, manufacturers of nuts and bolts. Each of these areas developed as distinct neighborhoods that have continued to be home to second- and third-generation descendants.

Greenwich also became a resort, catering to New Yorkers wishing to escape the city for the summer. Along the shore, hotels were erected to house, feed and entertain these visitors. Many decided to build homes in Greenwich, creating such areas as Belle Haven, Field Point Park, Byram Shore and Rock Ridge. People with easily recognizable names—Benedict, Bruce, Converse, Gimble, Havemeyer, Mallory, Mil-

bank, Rockefeller and Teagle—amassed large land holdings where they built the estates for which Greenwich is now famous. These families became great benefactors to the new community.

Greenwich bounded into the 20th century with yet another improvement in transportation; the trolley from Rye to Stamford connected Greenwich from west to east with a convenient, in-town service. The automobile then took precedence after the First World War. In 1938, the Merritt Parkway cut through the northern section of Greenwich, followed in 1957 by I-95 to the south. Once again, new arrivals swelled the population of Greenwich. This time, the newcomers were the employees of corporations leaving New York City for suburban headquarters.

While the beginning of the century saw the creation of great land estates, the post-World War II period witnessed their dissolution into smaller building lots that accommodated the new residents. Growth and development brought about the reorganization of town government, the consolidation of the school system and the establishment of a network of independent, non-profit organizations that supply the town with its social services and cultural institutions.

The second half of the century saw a growing concern in Greenwich for protecting its heritage, resulting in the creation of two local historic districts, 23 buildings and areas listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and the acquisition of undeveloped land as park and conservation areas. Greenwich is a special place to its residents who work hard as volunteers on its behalf.

Binney Park, Old Greenwich

5

Villages of Greenwich Old Greenwich Old Greenwich is where it all began. On July 18, 1640, the Siwanoy Indians, for the price of 25 English coats, sold the land that is now Old Greenwich to four Englishmen. One of the Englishmen, Jeffrey Ferris, named the area after his birthplace, Greenwich, England. As Greenwich developed to the west, Old Greenwich became known as “Old Town.” In 1872, the New Haven Railroad objected to adding Old Town as a rail stop, as they deemed it too confusing having two Greenwich stops. Thus, the name of Old Town was changed to Sound Beach. That name would remain until 1930 when it was renamed Old Greenwich.

Old Greenwich has evolved from a farming community to a summer resort to the quiet commuter community it is today. With its quaint downtown shopping district and its proximity to Green-

wich’s largest public beach, Old Greenwich is a desirable location for many.

Cos Cob today is a robust community with a central downtown shopping district along Route 1.

Cos Cob As the Old Town farmers struggled with its rocky soil, the tiny hamlet to its west prospered as a seaport. Cos Cob, originally known as Mianus, was named after the Siwanoy Chief, Myanos. Settled by the Dutch, Cos Cob got its name from an Englishman named John Coe. Coe, an early settler, built a rocky seawall, then referred to as a “cob,” that became known as Coe’s Cob. Coe left the area in 1659, but the name stuck and over time the “e” was dropped.

Cos Cob flourished as a seaport during the 18th and 19th centuries. At the turn of the 19th century, Cos Cob evolved into an intellectual and artist colony, playing host to the likes of Eugene O’Neill, Willa Cather and Anya Seton.

Central Greenwich In 1686, the tract of land between the Byram and Mianus rivers was traded by the Miossehasseky Indians for just 30 acres of planting ground elsewhere. Known then as Horseneck, it was the principal farming area of the town and supplied much of the produce for New York. The advent of the railroad in the mid-19th century was an economic boon for central Greenwich, transforming Greenwich Avenue into the major shopping center it is today, with its many upscale stores and top-rated restaurants. Trademarks of the Avenue are the uniformed policemen who direct traffic every weekday. Central Greenwich is the hub of economic activity and the seat of town government. It

Binney Park, Old Greenwich

6

is also where the main Greenwich library, Bruce Museum, Greenwich Hospital and many other town institutions are located.

The central Greenwich area offers a wide range of residential opportunities, from apartments/townhouses and condominiums convenient to shopping and public transportation to midcountry homes and the exclusive waterfront properties in Belle Haven and Mead Point.

Glenville This tiny mill town was founded in 1774 when a group of Baptist settlers traveled to this hilly stretch of land by the Byram River to establish a church. Since then, Glenville’s history has always been linked to industry. In 1790, a mill opened for grinding Peruvian bark into medicine.

Today, Glenville is a suburban enclave in the western section of Greenwich. The American Felt Company, “The Mill,” still stands today and is home to retail, restaurants, office space, condominiums and apartments.

Riverside Predominately known for fishing and farming, Riverside was known as Mianus Neck until 1870. Until the mid-1800s, Riverside Avenue was referred to as Potato Road because of all the potato storage cellars near the cove. As with the rest of Greenwich, Riverside evolved from an agrarian-based economy to the suburban community it is today.

Riverside’s abundance of waterfront—river, harbor and the Long Island Sound—makes it a desirable location for those who enjoy waterfront living.

Byram Byram, tucked into the southwest corner of town, was settled in 1660 by Thomas Lyon. Originally known as New Lebanon, this area of Greenwich developed slower than the hamlets to the east. Farming and fishing slowly gave way to industry.

The Hendroth Brothers foundry built furnaces and sold them worldwide, employing 700 workers in its heyday in the mid1800s.

Today, Byram remains a diverse community, which boasts a vital downtown shopping area with small shops and restaurants.

Banksville Banksville was named after Samuel Bankes, who settled on the upper reaches of the Mianus River in the northeast corner of Greenwich in 1700. For the next 200 years, it was a quiet farming community, but in 1904, Edmund Converse acquired more than 1,000 acres to create Greenwich’s greatest estate, with 40 buildings and a staff of 200. Farming operations continued up until 1960, after which time it lay fallow for 20 years until it was sold to the Conyers Farm Partnership and its then 1,468 acres were subdivided into 60 lots. Conyers Farm is the home of many well-known residents who can afford its magnificent 10-acre lots. It is also the locale for the Greenwich Polo Club, where many town residents go in the summer to enjoy the polo games on a Sunday afternoon. (An interesting sidelight: Conyers Farm would not exist nor would most of backcountry Greenwich be the same if a proposal in 1945 to locate the headquarters of the United Nations here had not been defeated by an alarmed group of Greenwich citizens.)

Banksville’s small business center near the New York State line is reminiscent of a simpler time. Many of its residents refer to Banksville as the land that time has forgotten.

The Backcountry and Midcountry Any description of the unique areas of Greenwich wouldn’t be complete without mention of the extraordinarily beautiful midcountry and backcountry that en-

Tod’s Point

compass nearly two-thirds of the town’s geography. Four-acre zoning is the rule in most of the backcountry area, defined as north of the Merritt Parkway, while oneand two-acre zoning is most common in the midcountry to the south.

Thanks to preservation efforts by the Greenwich Land Trust and the generosity of a number of Greenwich property owners, there is still a remarkable amount of open space remaining, especially in the backcountry. The area is characterized by a diversity of rivers, lakes and ponds, winding country roads, woods and meadows, and scenic glacial carved gorges—enough to please the eye of the most ardent environmentalist.

Here is where most of the town’s golf courses and many of its parklands are found, including the Audubon property with its impressive headquarters and the Kimberlin Nature Education Center.

Perhaps most surprising, this is all within 35 miles of Manhattan.

Source: www.greenwichchamber.com and Greenwich Association of REALTORS®

7

Business Index Accountant

Garden Center

Air Conditioning

Granite and Marble

Arborist

Heating and Cooling

Architects

Home Improvement

Berkow, Schechter & Company LLP........................... 22 J.P’s Plumbing & Heating LLC....... 40 Highland Tree Service LLC............ 37 Alex Esposito Architects................ 44 Laura Kaehler Architects, LLC....... IFC Crozier Gedney Architects............. 19

Asbestos Abatement

HomeGuard Enviromental............ 33

Attorney

Cacace, Tusch & Santagata........... 15 Ivey Barnum & O’Mara, LLC........... 9 Kaye & Hennessey LLC................IBC

Basement Waterproofing

Basement Solutions, LLC............... 36

Bathroom Remodeling

JP’s Plumbing & Heating............... 40 Majestic Kitchens & Bath.............. 38

Builder

Meenan Brothers.......................... 23 Reichmann Construction.............. 22

Cabinetry

Benchmark Kitchens..................... 27 Deane Inc. ...................................BC

Canine Training

Roman’s K9 Training..................... 37

Closets

Connecticut Closet & Shelf............. 8

Concierge

Concierge Greenwich..................... 3

Dentist

Wilton Center Family Dentistry..... 31

Electrical Contractor

Weigold Electric Inc. .................... 41

Energy

PurePoint Energy.......................... 39

Sam Bridge Nursery & Greenhouses............................. 39 U.S. Granite, Inc. ......................... 27 JP’s Plumbing & Heating LLC........ 40 Meenan Brothers.......................... 23

Home Inspections

HouseMaster Home Inspections.... 42

Indoor Air Quality

HomeGuard Environmental.......... 33

Insurance

Carlson & Carlson Inc. ................. 35 Griffith E. Harris............................ 25

Kitchens and Bathrooms

Benchmark Kitchens..................... 27 Deane Inc. ...................................BC Majestic Kitchens & Bath.............. 38

Kitchen and Bath Remodeling

JP’s Plumbing & Heating............... 40

Landscaping

Richard Jones Landscaping LLC..... 37

Lead Abatement

HomeGuard Environmental.......... 33

Masonry

Richard Jones Landscaping LLC..... 37

Mold Remediation

HomeGuard Environmental.......... 33

Mortgages

Weichert Gold Services................... 1

Moving and Storage

JB Moving..................................... 17

Nursery/Greenhouse

Sam Bridge Nursery & Greenhouses............................. 39

Organizing

Matt Baier Organizing LLC............ 22

Painting

MDF Painting & Power Washing..... 8

Pest Control

Western Pest Services.................... 44

Plumbing and Heating

JP’s Plumbing & Heating LLC........ 40

Power Washing

MDF Painting & Power Washing..... 8

Real Estate Agency

Weichert, Realtors®........... 11, 13, 18

Restaurant

Little Pub...................................... 43

Retirement Living

The Greens at Greenwich............. 15

Roofing and Siding

Reichmann Construction.............. 22

Schools

Whitby School.............................. 33

Senior Living

The Greens at Greenwich............. 15

Septic Systems

Kaiser-Battistone........................... 22

Solar Power

PurePoint Energy.......................... 39

Stone and Tile

Lima Ceramic Tile LLC.................. 44 U.S. Granite, Inc. ......................... 27

Tile and Stone

Lima Ceramic Tile......................... 44

Tree Care

Highland Tree Service................... 37 Richard Jones Landscaping LLC..... 37

Water Heaters

Kaiser-Battistone........................... 22

Water Treatment

Kaiser-Battistone........................... 22

Waterproofing

Basement Solutions LLC................ 36

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With the Blink of an Eye...

One Click Leads to Your Dream Home

by Drew Peterson

W

ith the launch of Google’s futuristic Internet eyewear, searching for a house online may be as easy as a blink of the eye. Smartphones, iPads and laptops that can be worn on the wrist and technology and Internet sites featuring colorful links and sites to search for homes often dazzle all but the techie buyer. Here are some insights from a real estate agent’s perspective on searching for your next home or for those who may be considering listing their home.

1

Not all real estate websites are equal. Small, local boutique companies in a target search area may not have the deep corporate pockets to pay for online presence, which means limited exposure for your house online and limited inventory from which to choose. It may be a great site to explore restaurants in the area, but wouldn’t you rather see photos of your new kitchen first before you begin reading a menu?

2

The listings you see on a website may not all be the company listings that you are viewing online. The

power of the IDX (Internet Data Exchange) now permits registered brokerages to display all listings, or respective participants to feature houses. The IDX allows for ease of browsing on one site and keeps track of your favorite listings.

3

Beware of sites that value houses. Most buyers may not

realize that the estimates of house values on many featured sites do not account for significant renovations, improvements and demographic factors that can account for price variation.

Don’t base an offer on such an estimate or consider what you see online as your benchmark. You may be surprised that even in a tight inventory market, you may be overbid by a multiplebid scenario.

4

Calling the listing agent is your best source of information regarding a listing, but without becoming a cli-

ent, anything you may share with the listing agent is going to get back to the seller, as the listing agent/brokerage represents the seller. There are some reasons that one may get a house for less if a listing agent is contacted. Although commissions are negotiable, typically, a listing agreement has been signed by the listing brokers, agents and sellers prior to going online that discloses the commission rate to be paid at transaction closing.

Buyer agents within the same firm or other firms can be used to view listings representing the buyer solely in the negotiations.

There are disclosures for dual agency and single, dual agency when the same brokerage participates in a negotiation. All parties must agree in writing before a dual agency can commence, so both the seller and buyer are informed.

10

5

Google the world. Want to know if the “charming cottage” is next to the huff and puff of a major freeway? Now, Google Earth can show the overhead and street scene of the street to buy. I have discovered many buyers asking questions before we have visited properties that have been derived from area visuals.

6

Looking for a professional agent? Typically, an agent

who invests his/her time and money to develop a personal site in addition to using his/her firm’s website is a full-time, experienced agent and will offer a vast array of resources, including vendors, service providers and local information on a personal website.

7

Don’t forget to look for visual tours, if available, online. These offer some close-up opportunities that may be

missed in a smaller screenshot.

8

Once you look online, contact an agent to assist your search and inform them of your wish-list criteria.

You will learn that many of the best listings may never reach the Internet, and it will be in your best interest to work with a real estate agent. Most importantly, a real estate professional will customize a search tailored to your search criteria and you will get listings in your email inbox before you can blink an eye!

Drew Peterson, REALTOR®, Broker, ABR, CIPS, RSPS Since 1989, full-time agent with Weichert Cell: (203) 253-7653 www.drewsellsrealestate.com • drew@drewpeterson.net

11

I Still Believe in the Magic of Public Open Houses

by Mireya Diez

A

re public open houses destined to disappear in a day and age when most prospective buyers start their search on the Internet? Is the notion that public open houses rarely sell houses, benefit agents only, and are simply dangerous, compelling enough reasons to eradicate this practice?

While recent statistics show that a big portion of our industry considers this traditional marketing tool more favorable to promote real estate professionals than to bring sellers and buyers together, I am still a firm believer that they are an important element of the strategy to sell real estate property and I enthusiastically advise it to my clients. According to Weichert Internal Statistics, one out of three Weichert Open Houses leads directly to a sale. Public open houses are as important as ads, postcards, For Sale signs, etc. The more resources we have, the more opportunities develop to sell our listings. So why not use it if our clients are up for it?

Personally, I think even with the wealth of technological resources for buyers today, nothing can replace the human factor—being there to offer prospective buyers the opportunity to address any concerns or questions about the property, information about the neighborhood, schools, etc. It would be foolish of me to deny that many times at these events, I have made new connections that have concluded in other transactions; however, my sincere intention is to represent the seller the most accurate way possible and sell their property.

According to Weichert Internal Statistics, one out of three Weichert Open Houses leads directly to a sale.

In regard to personal safety while hosting these events, you cannot be careful enough. This kind of awareness should not be limited to public open houses, but always throughout our career. We are constantly meeting strangers, particularly at these occasions—we really don’t know who will walk through the front door next. By taking some precautions, you’ll feel more empowered and less vulnerable. Whenever possible, I have my assistant or a colleague accompany me during open houses. In the event that this is not an option, I make sure I’m in constant communication with my office so they know where I am and my schedule. I keep my cellphone with me at all times. Yes, your smartphone has become one of your greatest weapons by which you can protect yourself against danger. A variety of mobile apps designed for real estate professionals are available and can do anything from alerting others when you’re feeling threatened to automatically accessing your GPS coordinates to request help in the event you need it.

And lastly, as Realtors®, we have the duty to provide for the safety of our visitors by eliminating any foreseeable hazards. Before an open house, I always do a walk-through of the property to make sure potential danger is removed. I make sure the stairs are clear, eliminate burning candles, get rid of rugs, etc.

In essence, I believe public open houses benefit all parties involved, and we should take advantage of the interest potential buyers have in visiting them and use every tool available at our disposal. I’m very proud to be a “Weichert Open House Specialist,” as a top producer and colleague of mine calls me.

Mireya Diez Associate Broker, Weichert, Realtors® Greenwich Capital Properties and Estates (203) 661-5400 • Diezmireya@gmail.com

12

Special Needs of Foreign Clients When Purchasing or Renting a Home in Lower Fairfield County and Nearby Westchester

by Ana Vilaseca

E

ven if we don’t speak the language, many realtors® have a natural affinity for working with expatriates and certain cultures. This can help make uprooting a family and moving to another country a much less stressful—and even exciting—experience.

Weichert Capital Properties has many real estate brokers (often not born in the U.S.) who are trained to handle the special needs of international transferees. Here are some personal observations from my own experiences.

8I handle every search for a new home in a discreet, sensitive manner, and clients feel very comfortable with this style. Speaking their language is also a great advantage.

8In our area, most foreign homebuyers or renters are expatriates being transferred overseas by their employer or are immigrants to the U.S. 8There are different interests depending on the time they expect to stay in the U.S. For longer stays, it often makes sense to buy rather than rent.

being relocated. In the case of purchases, it is settled with higher down payments than the customary, although in some cases, buyers must provide the lender with bank statements, credit cards, some certificate of good standing, etc., from the country they are coming from.

8There is a broad variety in clients’ profiles, and understanding their needs is critical. Also, getting them acquainted with culture, investment trends, exchange rates and legal issues is crucial.

8The help I provide my clients includes looking for schools, getting Social Security cards and driver’s licenses, and familiarizing them with their new community.

8Most clients know what they want in terms of home size and location, but must be guided in many other ways, such as choosing the right school and grade for their children.

8One of the most difficult issues is expatriates’ lack of credit history. With rentals, this is solved with a letter of employment from the company for whom they work and by whom they are

Ana Vilaseca, REALTOR® Weichert Capital Properties & Estates 68 Arch Street, Greenwich, CT 06830 203.661.5400 • avilaseca@weichert.com

Source: NAR Research

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What You Need to Know before You Build or Renovate:

Demystifying the Architect’s Role

by Emilia F. Ferri, AIA

P

lanning your dream home, renovating an existing residence, creating additional spaces or simply modernizing current conditions? You may have asked yourself these questions: When do I hire an architect? Do I even need one? What should I expect when working with one?

Architects are not only responsible for the aesthetics and functionality of spatial conditions, but most importantly, the health, safety and welfare of you and your family. There are four phases an architect will proceed with: programming, schematic design, design development and construction documents.

8Programming: A designer will start with the existing conditions of the project at hand, evaluating what can and cannot be achieved based on the desires, budget, site, and overall project constraints.

8Schematic Design: A designer will provide her/his expertise by responding to and interpreting the client’s early design intent and concepts.

8Design Development: This stage will further expand upon design components, details and the function of spaces and systems.

8Construction Documents: A complete set of drawings are prepared for estimating and furnished to builders to get competitive bids for construction.

Architects orchestrate and keep clients abreast of the customization and organization that transpires when planning their home. In addition, the architect will identify, analyze, and manage issues that may arise not only during the design phase, but also during construction. Beyond design, architects may be hired for, but not limited to: 8Managing the design schedule 8Designing according to current building codes (setbacks, size and height restrictions, etc.)

8Coordinating technical trades (electrical, mechanical, plumbing, engineering, etc.)

8Legalizing previously non-complying work done 8Monitoring budget limitations Choosing the right architect with a compatible vision and style can generate confidence and build a professional rapport, which is critical in achieving a successful project. In my architectural practice, I encourage open lines of communication with my clients. This limits misunderstandings and can help expedite design decisions.

16

Not all designers are the same. Here are some tips for choosing a well-suited architect for you and your project: 8Credentials: Ask if they are a licensed or accredited professional.

8Portfolio: Review previous work.

8Personality: Are you compatible?

8References: Ask for previous client referrals.

8Compensation: Determine how they will charge for their fees: stipulated sum, percentage of construction cost, or hourly rates.

An architect’s fee varies vastly, depending on the extent of design contracted for. One client may be looking for a spatial layout, versus another searching for detailed design drawings that are ready for construction. Architects can also be hired to manage or periodically review construction progress as an owner’s representative.

How long does it take? Most of us are intrigued and enchanted by the magical transformations we see during the 60-minute segment of our favorite home makeover show. We are attracted to the speedy construction and spectacular finish, yet “reality TV” does not show the lengthy process and development of the entire design and construction duration. Each project varies in duration, but by reviewing the design schedule with the architect and the construction schedule with the contractor in advance, a client can fully grasp the extent of their specific project.

Cost/Benefit. Though using an architect may add to the overall project budget of your new home or renovation/addition, the detailed drawings can also save you money by enabling you to get competitive bids from builders. In today’s competitive market, many astute buyers in this part of the country are now more often asking for an architect’s expertise.

Architects are not only responsible for the aesthetics and functionality of spatial conditions, but most importantly, the health, safety and welfare of you and your family.

A well-designed and executed project is likely to add value to your property by enhancing its aesthetic appeal and functionality. By choosing an architect with the right skills, aptitude, diligence and collaborative personality, you are more likely to achieve paramount results and have a spectacular unveiling yourself.

Emilia F. Ferri, AIA, Architect/Realtor® Weichert Capital Properties & Estates Greenwich, CT 203.545.7761 • 203.661.5400 eferri@weichert.com

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The Realities of Selling a House

in a Flood Hazard Zone

by Judith Ellenthal and Maura Puckett

L

iving on or near the water has many advantages.

Imagine being able to see the sunset or sunrise over Long Island Sound from your kitchen window or launching your boat from your backyard. In order to sell a house in a flood zone today, you need more than a view; you must be prepared to address the buyer’s concerns about the effect, if any, of the new flood zone designations on your property.

Remapping of the Flood Zones The remapping of the flood zones began after Hurricane Katrina and before Superstorm Sandy. Congress passed the Biggert-Waters Flood Insurance Reform Act, which financed a program by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to update the flood zone maps. FEMA has updated the Flood Insurance Risk Maps (FIRMs) as of July 8, 2013. Owners of some residential and commercial properties in a Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) may learn from the new FIRMs that their properties have

20

been placed in a higher risk zone; that their Base Flood Elevation (BFE) has increased; or maybe that their properties have been placed in a lower risk zone and their BFEs have decreased. If you are in a SFHA, you will need a Flood Elevation Certificate to determine how the new FIRM has affected your property.

Is Your House in a Flood Zone?

Now you have something new to add to the list to prepare your home for sale. You need to find out if your home is located in a flood zone. Even if your home is not located along or near a body of water, your property may be located in a flood zone. The new maps are available on FEMA’s website, www.fema.gov, or at your local town hall. In addition, municipal zoning staffs and private land surveyors and engineers may assist you in making this determination.

Flood Elevation Certificates Today’s buyers are educated consumers, and as a seller, you must be, too. You need to be prepared in advance of listing your home. Contact a certified land surveyor, engineer or architect

for an updated Flood Elevation Certificate. It could take months to obtain one, especially at certain times of the year. However, having a Flood Elevation Certificate available for potential buyers will put you one step ahead of other sellers. The Flood Elevation Certificate will contain a professional’s certification as to your BFE. However, to determine municipal requirements for construction in a flood zone, you must still check with your local town, since many communities have added a building requirement that the lowest floor of structures in certain flood zones must be built an additional foot or two above the BFE. Just because buyers are doing their own due diligence does not obviate the need for you to be prepared with your own facts and Flood Elevation Certificate.

are ways to reduce the effects of a storm. Even if your home is not in a flood zone, maintaining your home inside and out goes without saying, as well as reducing any potential damage from a storm.

Living on or near the water does come with a price. The price is not only the purchase price, but the price of dealing with an occasional, temporary disruption to the peace and quiet of living on or near Long Island Sound. Think of that view from your window and balance that against an occasional inconvenience.

Fairfield County is still the place to live; the remarkable community and the extraordinary location of this area are going to win out.

Flood Insurance Premiums

Legislation Update

The Act provides some relief to the cost of flood insurance of homes in flood zones. The homes will no longer be subject to sharp increases in flood insurance premiums when they are sold or if the new FIRM placed them in a higher zone. If a home was built in compliance with the flood map that was in effect at the time of construction, but the new FIRM places it in a more restrictive zone that would result in a higher premium, grandfathering allows the home to keep the prior lower rate, even if sold. Grandfathering will not apply to secondary homes and non-residential properties.

However, if the property is substantially damaged either by a disaster, in which the repair cost exceeds 50 percent of the value of the property prior to the damage occurring, or if the property is substantially improved, in which the cost exceeds 50 percent of the market value of the house prior to the start of the initial repair or improvement, then the property would be required to be repaired or improved in compliance with the current FEMA regulations and grandfathering of the prior flood zone would not apply.

Once you have your updated Elevation Certificate, you can obtain the insurance quote from your insurance agent. Again, this is something you can do in advance. If you have this information, you will be in position to immediately address a potential buyer’s concerns about the insurance premium.

On March 21, 2014 President Obama signed The Homeowner Flood Insurance Affordability Act, which extends the timeframe that subsidized rates will be increased to actuarial rates, restores grandfathering of the flood zone, repeals that new sales were required to pay the full actuarial rate, as well as other significant changes to reduce the impact of increased flood insurance premiums.

The Act will allow most properties to retain their subsidized rates. The Act also requires refunds of premiums to people who purchased their homes after the Biggert-Waters Act went into effect.

Disclaimer The information contained in this article is informational and not intended to be legal advice and may not be reproduced in any form without written consent. Requests for consent should be directed to Judith Ellenthal, Cacace, Tusch & Santagata, 777 Summer Street, Stamford, CT 06901-1022.

Be Prepared and Have the Answers Have answers to a buyer’s questions about what happened to your home during Sandy and previous storms. They might also ask if there have been any previous claims filed with the insurance company due to flood damage.

If you are in an area where the town may turn off the electrical power and/or natural gas in advance of a significant storm, a wise investment would be a generator. If you have a sump pump, another worthwhile investment would be a battery operated back-up to your sump pump or a water-powered sump pump. Again, this would show a prospective buyer that there

Judith Ellenthal, Attorney Cacace Tusch & Santagata Stamford, Conn.

(203) 327-2000 jellenthal@lawcts.com

Maura Puckett, Realtor® Weichert Capital Properties Greenwich, Conn.

(203) 829-6642 mpuckett@weichert.com

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Homeowners Insurance:

Your Policy Deductible and How It Impacts a Claim

by Griff Harris

D

o you know what your homeowners deductible is? Many factors are considered in determining how a home is insured, one of the most critical being where the home is located. Is your home located in a coastal area? If so, there are concerns that must be considered and properly understood when choosing your homeowner’s insurance carrier—one of which is the difference between a “wind deductible” and a ”hurricane deductible.”

What is the difference between a “Wind Deductible” and a “Hurricane Deductible?”

As a result of the storm activity of recent years (including Hurricane Irene in 2011 and Superstorm Sandy in 2012), many homeowner’s insurance carriers now include wind or hurricane deductibles in their policies. In fact, many insurance carriers slipped in the change in deductibles with little notification to policyholders.

A deductible is the amount deducted from an insured loss when a claim is paid by the insurance company. A deductible can be either a fixed dollar amount, or a percentage of the total amount of insurance on a policy (usually the “Building Limit”).

While standard homeowner’s deductibles for fire, theft and many other types of losses included in the policy are stated as dollar amounts (i.e., $500, $1,000 or higher), hurricane and wind deductibles are generally calculated as a percentage, and vary from 1 percent to 5 percent of the home’s insured value.

For example, if a home is insured for $900,000 and the policy includes a 5 percent wind deductible, the first $45,000 of any covered wind claim must be paid by the policy holder (5 percent X $900,000 = $45,000).

8Wind Deductible: Is more penalizing than a hurricane deductible. A wind deductible applies to any wind damage, and is not limited to a storm that meets the definition of a hurricane or a particular “mile-per-hour” wind-speed requirement. This form will impose the larger “out-of-pocket” cost to the policyholder for any and all wind claims.

In addition to understanding how a deductible applies to your claim, it is also critical to understand the difference between a “wind deductible” and a “hurricane deductible.”

8Hurricane Deductible: Applies to damage sustained from a hurricane. Some insurance companies include a specific “mileper-hour” wind speed criteria, while others state that the hurricane must be designated by the National Weather Service or the National Hurricane Center. Accordingly, this form is more appealing.

Let’s look at how these two types of deductibles can affect the same claim.

Scenario #1: 5 Percent Hurricane Deductible A home is insured for $500,000 with a $1,000 Property Policy deductible for all covered losses except hurricane, which is a 5 percent deductible. A tree falls on the roof on a windy day (not designated a hurricane). As the wind event does not meet the definition of a hurricane, a $1,000 deductible would apply. If the event was caused by a “hurricane,” a 5 percent, or $25,000, deductible would apply.

Scenario #2: 5 Percent Wind Deductible In this instance, the above “wind claim” would be subject to a 5 percent deductible, hence, the out-of-pocket cost would be $25,000 (5 percent of $500,000).

As the above scenarios illustrate, there is a significant difference between a wind deductible and a hurricane deductible, which could have a significant impact on both the amount of claim dollars a homeowner would receive as well as their out-ofpocket expense with a wind/hurricane-related event.

For this reason, it is important to review your insurance with an insurance professional who will ensure that your home is properly insured with the best terms and conditions available in the marketplace.

Griff Harris, CIC, President Griffith E Harris Insurance Services LLC

24

Best Staging Tips

By Marjorie Marianacci

G

3

etting your home ready to sell doesn’t have to be stressful. Remember, first impressions count. Prospective buyers will enjoy entering a home that smells fresh, is sparkling clean and shows spaciousness by being minimally furnished.

Clear out all clutter from rooms and counters, including excess furniture. Remember, “less clutter” means “more money.”

Feng shui practitioner Celeste Jeraci, of Celestial Harmonies, states, “Energy enters and exits through the entrances of your home,” so it is important to check surroundings and make sure they are clean, swept and that nothing is broken or in disrepair.

Shrubs should not obstruct the entry, and should be trimmed and healthy. Door knobs should maintain a shine that can be obtained by cleaning them with warm water and sea salt. Prior to prospective buyers arriving, sprinkle bird seed on the lawn area; it will help to increase earth energy.

Pack up personal items, such as photos, awards, trophies, etc. They tend to distract buyers. The goal is to keep their focus on your home and envisioning themselves in it.

10 BEST STAGING TIPS

1

Your grounds, landscaping and porches need to be tidy. Remove all refuse from the yard. Clean out and organize the garage and basement areas.

2

Your front door should be scrubbed and painted with a welcoming ornament or wreath for warmth. The entry foyer needs to have sufficient light. A nice touch would be a soft green plant, fragrant flowers, potpourri or candles.

4

MAKE MINOR REPAIRS Buyers will appreciate a home that has been well-maintained.

CheckList: o

Broken screens

o

Leaky faucets

o

Loose tiles

o

Fix visible cracks

o

Caulk around tubs

o

Remove stains

o

Replace any broken glass

o

Squeaky doors and creaky floors

o

Light switches

5

Fresh paint on the walls and woodwork goes a long way. Neutral colors only.

Remove dated wallpaper.

6 7

Buff or refinish hardwood floors, shampoo rugs and remove old or stained carpeting.

8 9

Increase the wattage of light bulbs in lamps and overhead lighting to illuminate your space.

Wash windows and screens inside and out. Make sure shades and draperies are open before showings begin to let in the sunshine and light.

The kitchen must be clean and shiny. Counters must be clear and appliances scrubbed. The sink must be free of dishes.

Always check for cooking odors. Use spray disinfectant before leaving.

10

Bathrooms need to sparkle! Tile and grout should be without soap film or mildew. Toilet seats must be lowered. Add a green plant and new towels for added pizzazz.

Entice buyers before showing by having all interior lights on with soft music playing in the background. Pets need to be contained in a clean cage that is covered to avoid being stressed when there are strangers in their home. Lastly, with everything in its place and a place for everything, you can relax and enjoy the positive results. The amount of effort you have put into preparing your home for sale will be rewarded with more interested buyers, a better offer and a faster sale.

Marjorie Marianacci Weichert Capital Properties and Estates (203) 550-2933

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Typical Closing Costs to Sell Example $1,000,000 Sale Price State Conveyance Tax (paid by seller) calculated as follows:

.75% on the first $800,000 = $6,000.00

1.25% on the balance of $200,000 = $2,500.00

Town of Greenwich Conveyance Tax (paid by seller)

.25% on the Sale Price of $1,000,000 = $2,500.00

Town of Greenwich Real Estate Taxes: due July 1 and January 1 of each year. Depending on the closing date, an adjustment will be made (in the favor of the Seller) on a per diem basis from the day of the closing through either December 31 or July 30.

Town of Greenwich Recording Fees:

$53.00 for first page

$5.00 for each additional page of any document

Utilities:

Fuel oil, propane gas:

Aquarian Water Co.:

Credit to Seller final bill paid by Seller

Attorney’s fees: to be negotiated

Capital Gains: consult attorney

Information provided by: Tom Ward of Ivey, Barnum & O’Mara, LLC; Rev. 6/21/12

Typical Closing CostS in Fairfield County

Buyer’s Responsibility Legal Fees: $1,500 - $3,500 (depending on cost of house and attorney’s fee schedule).

Title insurance: Determined according to purchase price

Examples: Price $500,000 - $1,800 $1,000,000 - $3,000 $2,000,000 - $5,800 Title Search: $200 Bank Fees: Application Fee: up to $400+ (varies with lender) Credit Report: $25

Appraisal: $350 - $1,000 (determined according to purchase price)

Pre-paid Interest: (covers interest on mortgage beginning from day of Closing to the end of the month)

Tax Service Fee: $90 Flood Certificate: $75

Tax Escrow: 2 - 6 months

Miscellaneous fees the bank may charge: Document fee: $175 - $200 Administration fee: $300 Insurance Fees: Homeowners insurance (one year pre-paid) $2,000 and up Inspections: Building and termite: $1,000+ depending on inspection company Additional cost for septic, well, oil tank, radon, lead, etc. Check with inspection company.

Other Costs: Property survey (if necessary): $1,200 - $1,600

Fuel adjustment (oil tank) Property tax adjustment

Sewer adjustment, if applicable (service charge) 28

Closing Costs in new york vs. connecticut

Purchase Price: $1,375,000

Mortgage Amount: $1,031, 250

EXPENSE ITEM NY CT

Westchester County Fairfield County Appraisal

$650 $550

prepaid interest (15 days/average) $1,719 hazard insurance premium (Est. - 12 months)

$1,719

$2,880 $2,400

hazard insurance ESCROW (Est. - 2 months) $480 REAL ESTATE TAX ESCROW - 8 months $8,545

$400 $5,697

ATTORNEY’S FEE (Estimate)

$3,500 $2,500

owner’s title insurance

$5,881

$1,112

lender’s title insurance

$1,159

$2,726

ny state mortgage tax

$10,798

$0

NY state mansion tax

$13,750

$0

recording fees

$600

$250

bank attorney

$900

$0

underwriting review

$775

$775

real estate tax service fee

$90

$90

flood certification

$75

$75

$350

$200

$52,152

$18,493

title search total estimated settlement charges

additional closing costs for purchasing in new york: $33,658 Source: Greenwich Association of realtors®

29

Public Education Cos Cob Elementary School

Board of Education 290 Greenwich Avenue (203) 625-7400 www.greenwichschools.org

Elementary Schools Cos Cob Elementary School 300 East Putnam Avenue, Cos Cob (203) 869-4670 Glenville Elementary School 33 Riversville Road, Greenwich (203) 531-9287 Hamilton Avenue Elementary School 184 Hamilton Avenue, Greenwich (203) 869-1685 International School at Dundee 55 Florence Road, Riverside (203) 637-3800

Riverside Elementary School

Julian Curtis Elementary School 180 East Elm Street, Greenwich (203) 869-1896

North Mianus Elementary School

New Lebanon Elementary School 25 Mead Avenue, Greenwich (203) 531-9139

Western Middle School 1 Western Junior Highway, Greenwich (203) 531-5700

North Mianus Elementary School 309 Palmer Hill Road, Riverside (203) 637-9730 North Street Elementary School 381 North Street, Greenwich (203) 869-6756 Old Greenwich Elementary School 285 Sound Beach Avenue, Old Greenwich (203) 637-0150 Parkway Elementary School 141 Lower Cross Road, Greenwich (203) 869-7466

30

High Schools Greenwich High School 10 Hillside Road, Greenwich (203) 625-8000 Riverside Elementary School 90 Hendrie Avenue, Riverside (203) 637-1440

Middle Schools Central Middle School 9 Indian Rock Lane, Greenwich (203) 661-8500 Eastern Middle School 51 Hendrie Avenue, Riverside (203) 637-1744

Arch School 6 Riverside Avenue, Riverside (203) 990-0439 Academy of Information Technology & Engineering 411 High Ridge Road, Stamford (203) 977-4336 www.aitestamford.org

Source: www.greenwichschools.org

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Dr. Aris joins an elite group of less than 5% of general dentists to achieve this award.

Dr. Aris is a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine where he received his Doctorate of Medical Dentistry.

Recently, he has been recognized by the International Association of Dentists as a Leading Physician of the World and Top General & Cosmetic Dentist. A believer in life-long learning, Dr. Aris is a founder of the Wilton Dental Study Group launched 19 years ago.

He is a member of the American Dental Association, Academy of General Dentistry, CT State Dental Society, American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, a Dawson Dentist Scholar, and past President of the Greater Norwalk Dental Society.

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Independent Schools in Fairfield County and Nearby Westchester BOYS’ SCHOOLS

Bi-Cultural Day School 2186 High Ridge Rd., Stamford (203) 329-2186 Grade: K-8 Students: 360

The Mead School 1095 Riverbank Rd., Stamford (203) 595-9500 Grade: Infants-8 Students: 106

The Children’s School 118 Scofieldtown Rd., Stamford (203) 329-8815 Grade: PS-2 Students: 150

New Canaan Country School 635 Frogtown Rd., New Canaan (203) 972-0771 Grade: PS-9 Students: 640

The Unquowa School 981 Stratfield Rd., Fairfield (203) 336-3801 Grade: PK-8 Students: 200

Fairfield Country Day 2970 Bronson Rd., Fairfield (203) 259-2723 Grade: K-9 Students: 887

Connecticut Friends School 317 New Canaan Rd., Wilton (203) 762-9860 Grade: K-8 Students: 55

Pear Tree Point 90 Pear Tree Point Rd., Darien (203) 655-0030 Grade: PK-5 Students: 210

Whitby School 969 Lake Ave., Greenwich (203) 302-3900 Grade: PS-8 Students: 370

GIRLS’ SCHOOLS Convent of the Sacred Heart 1177 King St., Greenwich (203) 531-6500 Grade: PS-12 Students: 800

Greens Farms Academy 35 Beachside Ave., Westport (203) 256-0717 Grade: K-12 Students: 620

Rye Country Day School 3 Grandview Ave., Rye, N.Y. (914) 967-1417 Grade: PK-12 Students: 880

The Wooster School 91 Miry Brook Rd., Danbury (203) 830-3900 Grade: PK-12 Students: 370

The Spire School 44 Commerce Rd., Stamford (203) 409-0066 www.spireschool.org Grade: 8-12 Self-care/health and wellness

special ed Schools

St. Cecilia Elementary School 1186 Newfield Ave., Stamford (203) 322-6505 Grade: PK4, K-5 Students: 310

Eagle Hill-Southport 214 Main St., Southport (203) 254-2044 Ages: 6-16 Students: 111

Brunswick School 100 Maher Ave., Greenwich (203) 625-5800 Grade: PS-12 Students: 946 Fairfield Prep 1073 N. Benson Rd., Fairfield (203) 254-4200 Grade: 9-12 Students: 900

Greenwich Academy 200 N. Maple St., Greenwich (203) 625-8900 Grade: PS-12 Students: 800 Lauralton Hall 200 High St., Milford (203) 877-2786 Grade: 9-12 Students: 453

Co-ed SCHOOLS All Saints Catholic School 139 West Rocks Rd., Norwalk (203) 847-3881 Grade: PK-8 Students: 564 Beacon 44 Commerce Rd., Stamford (203) 409-0066 Grade: K-12 Gifted students

32

Greenwich Catholic School 471 North St., Greenwich (203) 869-4000 Grade: K-8 Students: 480 Greenwich Country Day 401 Old Church Rd., Greenwich (203) 863-5600 Grade: PS-9 Students: 743 King & Low-Heywood Thomas School 1450 Newfield Ave., Stamford (203) 322-3496 Grade: PS-12 Students: 840 Landmark Academy 11 Burr Rd., Westport (203) 226-6982 Grade: PS-8 Students: 649

St. Luke’s School 377 N. Wilton Rd., New Canaan (203) 966-5612 Grade: 5-12 Students: 525

Trinity Catholic Middle School 948 Newfield Ave., Stamford (203) 322-7383 Grade: 6-8 Students: 235

Eagle Hill School 45 Glenville Rd., Greenwich (203) 622-9240 Ages: 6-16 Students: 251

Pinnacle 44 Commerce Rd., Stamford (203) 409-0068 www.pinnacle-ct.org Grade: 2-12

The Stanwich School 257 Stanwich Rd., Greenwich (203) 542-0032 Grade: K-12 Students: 370

Villa Maria School 161 Skymeadow Dr., Stamford (203) 322-5886 Ages: 6-16 Students: 88

Trinity Catholic High School 926 Newfield Ave., Stamford (203) 322-3401 Grade: 9-12 Students: 420

Windward School 13 Windward Ave., White Plains, N.Y. (914) 949-6968 Grade: K-9 Students: 556

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We understand the difference between insuring a house and a home.

Your home is more than a roof over your head. It’s a valuable asset that shelters you and your valued possessions. As your insurance advisor, we know you need an insurance company that understands the way you live. With more than 125 years of experience, a well-earned reputation for prompt and fair claim settlements, and special expertise in protecting fine homes and their contents, we know Chubb is as different from other insurance companies as a home is from a house. To see how we can create a personal insurance program from Chubb to meet your sophisticated needs, please contact one of the Principals at Carlson and Carlson: Tripp Freeman, Peter Carlson or Doug Carlson at 203-637-7575.

CARLSON & CARLSON, INCORPORATED Insurance & Financial Services Since 1920 15 Wilmot Lane, Riverside, CT 06878 (203) 637-7575 or (212) 697-3557 www.carlsonandcarlson.com

Financial Strength and Exceptional Claim Service Homeowners | Auto | Yacht | Jewelry | Antiques | Collector Car Chubb refers to the insurers of the Chubb Group of Insurance Companies. Chubb Personal Insurance (CPI) is the personal lines property and casualty strategic business unit of Chubb & Son, a division of Federal Insurance Company, as manager and/or agent for the insurers of the Chubb Group of Insurance Companies. This literature is descriptive only. Not available in all states. Actual coverage is subject to the language of the policies as issued. Chubb, Box 1615, Warren, NJ 07061-1615. ©2013 Chubb & Son, a division of Federal Insurance Company. www.chubb.com/personal

New Green-Space Regulations in Greenwich The newly adopted Green-Area Regulations, effective March 2, 2012, require a percent of each residentially zoned property be maintained as “green area.� The regulations were crafted as a complement to existing regulations on commercially zoned properties that restrict lot coverage.

The Green-Area Requirements are as follows: Zone Minimum Percent Green-Area Requirements:* RA-4 84% RA-2 78% RA-1 72% R-20 62% R-12 55% R-7 50% R-6 35%

(single and two family)

*Approximate Percentage of Green Area on Each Residentially Zoned Property Source: www.greenwichct.org

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Town Facilities Contact Information Utilities Gas: CT Natural Gas.........................................(203) 869-6900

Geographic Information System (GIS)...........(203) 622-6448

Electric: CT Light & Power...............................(800) 286-2000

Griffith E. Harris Golf Course..........................(203) 531-8253

Water: Aquarion Water Co...............................(800) 732-9678

Health Department.........................................(203) 622-6488

Phone: Verizon.................................................(203) 869-5222

Housing Authority...........................................(203) 869-1138

Cable: Cablevision............................................(203) 531-1166

Human Resources............................................(203) 622-7734 Inland, Wetland & Watercourses Agency.......(203) 622-7736

town hall.................................. (203) 622-7700

Parks & Recreation..........................................(203) 622-7814

Assessor...........................................................(203) 622-7885

Planning & Zoning Commission.....................(203) 622-7894

Beach Cards....................................................(203) 622-7817

Police Department..........................................(203) 622-8000

Board of Education.........................................(203) 625-7400

Police Chief.....................................................(203) 622-8010

Board of Selectmen........................................(203) 622-7710

Probate Court.................................................(203) 622-7879

Emergency Medical Service............................(203) 869-6131

Public Works Department...............................(203) 622-7740

Commission on Aging.....................................(203) 622-3992

Purchasing & Supply & Admin. Services........(203) 622-7881

Community Development..............................(203) 622-3791

Registrar of Voters..........................................(203) 622-7889

Conservation Commission..............................(203) 622-6461

Senior Center..................................................(203) 622-3990

Continuing Education.....................................(203) 625-7474

Social Services Department............................(203) 622-3800

Finance Dept./Comptroller.............................(203) 622-7720

Tax Collector...................................................(203) 622-7891

Fire Department..............................................(203) 622-3950

Town Attorney................................................(203) 622-7876

Fire Chief.........................................................(203) 622-3959

Town Clerk......................................................(203) 622-7897

Fire Marshall...................................................(203) 622-3950

Source: www.greenwichct.org

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Griffith E. Harris Insurance Services Griffith Harris..............(203) 869-9200

Highland Tree Service Mark MacIntyre..........(203) 329-2731

HomeGuard Environmental Gary Stone.................(203) 323-8000

HouseMaster Home Inspections Joe Lattarulo...............(203) 531-7500

Ivey Barnum & O’Mara, LLC Tom Ward...................(203) 661-6000

JB Moving Joe Barone..................(203) 602-7979

JP’s Plumbing & Heating John Kocot..................(203) 921-1560 42

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PurePoint Energy Reichmann Construction Peter Reichmann........(203) 270-6259

Roman’s K9 Training Roman Gottfried.........(203) 654-0350

Sam Bridge Nursery & Greenhouses Sam Bridge.................(203) 869-3418

U.S. Granite, Inc. Robert Basar...............(203) 761-8700

Weigold Electric Inc Mike Weigold.............(203) 532-1552

Western Pest Services Sal Presti.....................(866) 755-0007

Whitby School Nadia Meier................(203) 302-3900

Wilton Center Family Dentistry James Aris DDS...........(203) 762-5100

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