Lisa Migliardi, a mom of two and a Realtor with Higgins Group Private Brokerage, is this week’s Meet a Mom! Born and raised in Greenwich, she worked for ten years as Controller of a luxury design firm in town. This experience of creating elite custom homes lead her to a second career in real estate—also based here. “My Greenwich roots span four generations. My great grandfather was a stone mason who personally hand-built many of the homes still standing throughout town today. My parents owned and operated the Pemberwick X-Change Deli for in Glenville for 35 years,” explains Lisa. Now, she lives in Glenville with her husband Matt and their sons Mason and Morgan. Here’s a bit more about Lisa, her job and her life in Greenwich. Plus, her favorite spots in town.
What is your favorite part of your job?
Hands down the best part of my job is closing day for my buyers and sellers. There are so many moving parts to ensure that it all comes together correctly, and I love being a small part of their “next chapters”.
Love that. Why is real estate a great career for moms?
Ha! If you’d like for me to answer honestly, it’s one of the toughest careers for a mother, more so if your children are young. Some people think that working for yourself is ideal because you can be your own boss. In reality, at any given time I’ve got 20 “bosses” to answer to (my clients). It is so important to be able to give each of them your full attention and dedication, which can be trying when you have a 1 ½ and 2 ½ year old relying on you.
That makes sense! Can you tell us a bit about the market right now?
The Fairfield County market is on fire right now. Obviously, we have seen a massive influx of NY buyers due to COVID-19. This has created a seller’s market due to inventory being low. There is also a large number of locals who have spent these past few months in quarantine and have realized that their current living situation doesn’t any longer work for them, which has caused bidding wars between locals and out of town buyers.
How long will this volume last?
I wish I had a crystal ball to know how long this bubble will last. Some believed it wouldn’t last this long. I have however seen more homeowners recently list their homes for an above market price to see “if they can get that number.” I think if that continues many potential buyers will stay where they for the time being, rather than pay an exorbitant price for a property right now. If there happens to be another shut down for Connecticut over the winter months, this will also cool down the market.
Interesting. What do you want all sellers and buyers to know?
Sellers need to prepare their home in advance so that they can sell quickly. I know that many people are currently working from home, but please make sure that your home is decluttered and clean. Work with your Realtor to stage rooms so that potential buyers can envision themselves living in each space.
Also, most buyers are from out of town and less flexible on when they can preview a property. Since days on the market will kill a listing, if you’re committed to selling now please make sure that you allow for reasonable showing requests. Your agent will ensure that everyone wears a mask, gloves and booties, but please don’t put too many restrictions on potential buyers because your home won’t receive the attention that it deserves.
Buyers tell me that they want to buy now, but also “want an amazing deal.” In this market almost every property which is priced well is receiving multiple offers in its first days/weeks on the market. It’s important to base your offer on comparable properties within the area, but if the list price of the house you love is supported by the market data, please don’t think that you’re going to purchase it for 80% of list price.
How do you deal with working mom guilt?
Of course, I miss my children during the day while I am working. I do however have to family plan for the foreseeable future as well as the long term. Given the current real estate boom, and all of the future uncertainties with COVID-19, I will be unable to sell homes from home. I need to make this time count. When I am with my children however, I am present for all the small, special moments like swimming lessons, haircuts, and beach days.
How has this community supported you?
Born and raised in Greenwich, my business began with my sphere of influence at the time. My first clients were my family and close friends in town. When working with friends and family you have to go above and beyond to show them that they haven’t just chosen to work with you because of association. You have to prove to them that they should want to work with you because you’re very good at your job. The majority of my clients now are referrals, which speaks volumes of your business.
There are so many new faces to the area. What’s your best advice on finding your way as a newcomer?
Since there are so many restrictions even in Connecticut, people are online now more than ever. It is very helpful to join and utilize local social media groups so that you can stay informed and have a safe place to ask questions.
We love to support local businesses. What are your favorite places to:
Go on date night:
East End. You must try the burrata with fried green tomatoes, the homemade cavatelli with mushrooms and truffles, and treat yourself to a Steve McQueen.
Eat dinner as a family:
Colony Grill. The hot oil pizza is the absolute best, although you can never go wrong with a classic cheese pie.
Get your hair done:
Christopher Noland Salon, I’ve been going to Chris since high school!
Get your nails done:
Diamond Nail
Go shopping:
Restoration Hardware is my fav, but Hoaglands will always be a Greenwich staple for the perfect housewarming gift.
Have fun as a family:
Pick up lunch or dinner at a local food truck (Dough Girls is one of my favorites) and head to Bruce Park or Tod’s Point for a picnic.
This story contains sponsored content.
