Thinking of downsizing but looking to stay local?

The good news is: The sizzling housing market makes this a great time for homeowners to sell. Downsizing, as empty nesters or because you’re spending more time elsewhere, makes perfect economic sense.

The bad news is: Where do you go?

Historically low inventory means slim pickings for a new home, right?

Not necessarily. Because you don’t necessarily have to replace your current residence with another house.

Several exciting new projects offer area residents innovative new ways to live. You just have to think outside the “housing” box.

The Mill is a converted (yes) mill on Richmondville Avenue, just a few steps from downtown Westport. It’s a unique concept -- like living in a custom home, but with amenities ranging from a café, patio, pool, hot tub and health and wellness center, to a rooftop deck and concierge. The first residents move in early next year.

Across the Saugatuck River, Bankside House rises on the site of the former Save the Children headquarters. Right on the water, the collection of 12 refined homes is designed by award-winning architects Roger Ferris + Partners. With no shared walls (except in three-bedroom units), each unit is luxuriously private. Each features a balcony and terrace with green living walls, suited for installation of a hot tub or outdoor kitchen. Bankside boasts doorman and concierge services, plus flex space for a gym, guest quarters or office/meeting space.

Just over the border in Norwalk, White Barns’ 15 new homes are a woodsy alternative to The Mill and Bankside. Located where Lucille Lortel’s famed White Barn Theater once stood, they provide single family autonomy with condo convenience. Artisan millwork unifies the open concept living spaces, enhancing nature trails that thread the 15-acre property.

At the other end of Westport, plans are being finalized for the conversion of the Westport Inn into luxury rental units. They’ll join several other recently completed apartment complexes. All are perfect for short-term stays in between the sale of your current home and completion of the Mill or Bankside projects, or for homeowners looking to stay in Westport while spending some time in a second residence.

Each of these new projects is carefully thought out and exquisitely designed. Builders and architects are responding to a demand for these options. Westporters want to be on the water and in the woods. But not everyone needs or wants a large home there.

If you’d like to downsize, but worry you’ll have to leave the area, give the KMS Team at COMPASS a call. We’ll show you some options you may never have thought of that just might make your dreams come true.