Finding Your Perfect Balance: Why City Dwellers Are Looking North

Tired of crowded parks being your only "nature"? Exhausted from cross-city treks for weekend activities? Craving genuine peace beyond the city hustle?

It might be time to look NORTH.

The dream many New Yorkers chase seems impossible: genuine connection with nature without sacrificing urban amenities. We love the energy, opportunities, and excitement of Manhattan, but at what cost to our wellbeing?

As someone who helps city dwellers find their perfect home in Fairfield and Westchester Counties, I've witnessed countless transformations as people discover they can truly have it all – the accessibility of NYC with the breathing room of northern suburbs.

Beyond Just Suburbs – These Are Sanctuaries

The communities north of NYC aren't just bedroom communities – they're vibrant, character-filled sanctuaries that offer what the city simply can't:

Morning Birdsong Instead of Sirens

Imagine starting your day with coffee on your deck, surrounded by trees instead of tall buildings. The soundscape alone transforms your stress levels – birdsong replacing car horns, rustling leaves instead of neighbor noise, and genuine quiet when you want it.



One client recently told me: "I didn't realize how much background tension I carried until it disappeared. The constant noise of the city had become so normalized that I didn't recognize how it affected me until I experienced the alternative."

Space to Actually Live

City apartments force ingenious compromises – the dining table that's also your desk, the living room that doubles as a guest room, the "outdoor space" that's a fire escape or tiny balcony if you're lucky.



Homes in Fairfield and Westchester Counties offer:

  • Dedicated spaces for work, play, and relaxation
  • Actual outdoor living areas for gardening, entertaining, and unwinding
  • Storage that doesn't require seasonal rotation of your belongings
  • Room for hobbies that require space (art studios, workshops, home gyms)

Nature That Doesn't Require Planning

The difference between "visiting" nature and "living in" nature cannot be overstated. When accessing trails, beaches, reservoirs, and preserves requires only a short walk or drive:


  • Weekday hikes become possible, not just weekend excursions
  • Spontaneous outdoor activities replace meticulously planned trips
  • Seasonal changes become daily experiences, not Instagram posts from upstate
  • Physical activity naturally integrates into your routine



The psychological benefits of regular nature access are profound. Research consistently shows reduced stress, improved mood, better sleep, and enhanced creativity – all from simply having green space as part of your daily life.

Career Flexibility


  • Commuting 2-3 days a week becomes entirely manageable
  • Hybrid work arrangements feel balanced, not exhausting
  • Client meetings in the city remain accessible without relocating

Cultural Access


  • Spontaneous evening in the city for dinner and a show? Entirely doable.
  • Weekend cultural events without the need for accommodations
  • Maintaining city friendships through regular, convenient visits

The Best of Urban Amenities


  • World-class dining experiences just a train ride away
  • Museum exhibitions, theater premieres, and concerts without the full-time city price tag
  • Shopping and specialized services whenever needed

Look North: Your Sanctuary Awaits in Fairfield County

By Jessica Watts • July 29, 2025
Tired of crowded parks being your only taste of "nature"? Exhausted from hour-long cross-city treks just to find weekend activities that don't involve concrete and crowds? Craving genuine peace that goes beyond the city hustle and actually fills your soul? If you're nodding along, it might be time to look NORTH.

How Women Are Powerfully Shaping the Westchester Community

By Jessica Watts • July 23, 2025
Women are changing their communities in consistent, powerful ways—and nowhere is that more true than right here in Westchester. In Westchester, women are leading with intention. You see it in the early morning drop-offs and the late-night planning sessions, the packed community events, and the everyday decisions that

July Message from Jess Watts

By Jessica Watts • July 15, 2025
I blinked and we are well into July. I hope you are having a beautiful summer. It has been great to see everyone supporting their community recreation programs- and I want to hear about why you are loving yours!! The real estate market is still going strong. Inventory is still low overall, but I am seeing an uptick in certain areas which is great news for buyers! For sellers, we are still seeing prices soar in certain areas. The difference is now, buyers aren’t just picking up any house. So preparing your home is critical. I am helping sellers up to 6 months prior to listing. Remember, my knowledge is your super power. Lastly, in response to all of the grant cuts that have taken place, I have launched a GIVE BACK program. All of my clients will have donations made in their name to a local non for profit of their choice. I can’t wait to help make our communities stronger. Stay tuned for event updates. Yoga in the Garden is coming soon, just trying to finalize the date. Keep having the best summer, and we will chat soon.
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