Connecticut Real Estate Market Update – September Trends from a Local Realtor

September is here in Connecticut, and while the leaves haven’t quite turned yet, the real estate market already has. There’s something about this season — maybe it’s the cooler mornings or the buzz of back-to-school routines — that makes both buyers and sellers start thinking about fresh starts. As someone who has walked clients through countless fall closings, I can tell you: this is one of the most strategic times of the year to move in real estate. In this month’s update, I want to share what’s really happening across our local housing markets — from Milford to New Haven to Norwalk — and what it means if you’re planning to buy or sell a home in Connecticut this fall.

Connecticut Real Estate Snapshot: A Seller’s Market Is Holding Strong

Let’s talk about the big picture first: Connecticut real estate is still very much a seller’s market.

In New Haven, inventory has dropped to just over 2 months of supply, which means there are far more buyers than available homes. Milford is even tighter at 1.95 months, and Norwalk is at 1.86 months — both deep in seller’s market territory. To put it simply: there are more people shopping for homes in Connecticut than there are homes to buy.

If you’re thinking of selling, this is an opportunity. Homes are drawing attention quickly and often receiving multiple offers. In Norwalk, homes are selling at 102% of asking price; in New Haven, 105%; and in Milford, about 99%. This shows just how competitive the market has become.

Buyers, on the other hand, need to come prepared. When the right home hits the market, it won’t wait. I’ve seen houses listed on a Thursday and under contract by Monday. That’s how fast things are moving right now.

(Want to dig into current housing data? Check out Connecticut Realtors® Market Stats.)

Why September Is a Smart Time to List a Home in Connecticut

Fall might seem like the “off-season,” but in reality, September can be a golden month for sellers.

Here’s why:

• Less competition: Many homeowners still think spring is the only time to sell, but serious buyers are shopping now. Fewer listings mean your home gets more attention.

• Motivated buyers: Those who are shopping in the fall are often on deadlines — wanting to move before the holidays or the new year. That urgency works in your favor.

• Great curb appeal: Connecticut shines in the fall. From the golden maples in Milford to the vibrant coastal colors in Norwalk, homes naturally look more inviting this time of year.

If you’ve been on the fence about selling, this market is giving you a rare mix of strong demand and low competition. The key is pricing smartly and marketing your home with intention. I always tell my sellers: getting top dollar starts with positioning your property perfectly from day one.

(For tips on prepping your home for sale, see this Home Selling Guide from the National Association of Realtors.)

What Buyers Need to Know This Fall

For buyers, the Connecticut housing market can feel like a race — but with the right strategy, you can absolutely win.

The best approach this September is to be pre-approved, decisive, and realistic. Inventory is down sharply — by 34% year-over-year in New Haven, 38% in Milford, and 46% in Norwalk — and that means competition is fierce. When you find a home you love, make a strong offer and be ready to move quickly.

That doesn’t mean you need to overpay or waive all your protections. What it does mean is working with an agent who knows how to navigate multiple offer situations, write compelling offers, and position you as the buyer sellers want to work with.

One thing I emphasize with my buyers is balance: stay competitive, but stay smart. Yes, homes are selling above list price in many areas, but that doesn’t mean every house is worth a bidding war. An experienced local agent can tell you which homes are priced strategically — and which are overpriced out of optimism.

(If you’re new to buying, start here with the HUD Guide to Buying a Home.)

Pricing Trends Across Connecticut

Pricing sets the tone for both buyers and sellers, and right now, it’s clear Connecticut’s home values are holding strong:

• Milford: Median sold price is $530,000

• New Haven: Median sold price is $349,000

• Norwalk: Median sold price is $639,000

These numbers reflect a steady market where buyers are willing to pay for well-maintained, well-presented homes — especially those move-in ready or in desirable school districts.

For sellers, this is your cue to price strategically. Homes priced right from the start are selling at or above asking price, often in just a few weeks. Overpricing can backfire, especially in a competitive market where buyers are watching every new listing closely.

For buyers, these figures are a helpful benchmark when setting your budget and mortgage pre-approval limits. Remember that the list price is just the starting line — not always the finish.

(To explore pricing trends statewide, visit Zillow’s Connecticut Market Overview.)

How Long Are Homes Staying on the Market?

One of the most telling market metrics is days on market — how long it takes a home to go from listed to under contract.

• Milford: 54 days

• New Haven: 61 days

• Norwalk: 64 days

This shows a steady, healthy market. Homes aren’t vanishing in days like they did during the pandemic frenzy, but they also aren’t sitting for months. This pace gives sellers time to prepare and buyers time to think, while still moving the market along briskly.

My Take as a Local Connecticut Realtor

I’ve spent years helping clients buy and sell homes in Connecticut, and this September feels like a turning point.

The market is still competitive, but it’s also stabilizing. We’re no longer seeing the frenzied bidding wars of 2021, but demand is strong, and prices are holding. It’s a market that rewards preparation, timing, and good strategy — which is where having a trusted local realtor matters.

I often say buying or selling a home is like navigating Connecticut’s scenic backroads in the fall — there are twists, turns, and breathtaking views, but you want someone who knows the route. That’s my job, and I take it seriously.

Whether you’re thinking about listing your home this season or starting the search for your next one, I’d love to walk you through what the current market means for you specifically.

As we head deeper into fall, Connecticut’s real estate market shows no signs of cooling off.

• Sellers: This is your moment. Inventory is low, demand is high, and homes are selling near or above asking price.

• Buyers: Don’t be discouraged — be prepared. The right home is out there, and with the right guidance, you can absolutely land it.

September is a season of change, and in real estate, change brings opportunity. If you’re ready to make your move, let’s talk.