Boroughs & Burbs, the National Real Estate Conversation

Watch on YouTube: Boroughs & Burbs 119 — New Canaan Living YouTube
Episode page: Boroughs & Burbs 119 — New Canaan Living boroughsandburbs.com

Season 4 kicks off in New Canaan, CT. John Engel and Roberto Cabrera sit down with Jacqueline deMontravel (editor/publisher of New Canaan Living & Darien Living) and Christa Kenin (Douglas Elliman) to unpack what makes New Canaan special—its walkable downtown, top-performing schools, parks, and a lifestyle that blends small-town connection with a New York-caliber dining/shopping scene.

What’s in this episode (from the transcript)

• Opening & Introductions — Sponsor shout, then guest intros: Jacqueline (magazine editor/publisher) and Christa (NY attorney turned CT agent).

• What sets New Canaan apart — Elm Street’s walkable village vibe, Waveny Park, and easy access to Long Island Sound come up early as core lifestyle draws.

• Schools as a primary mover — The panel discusses why families target New Canaan for its consistently top-ranked schools and how that shapes demand.

• How buyers choose between towns — Practical comparisons with Darien, Westport, Ridgefield, and Greenwich; think “mini-Madison Avenue” retail feel vs. yard size, commute, and budget.

• Community texture — A downtown where you see neighbors daily; kids walk from school into town.

• Local flavor — Shout-outs to favorite downtown restaurants (e.g., Farmer’s Table) and why the food scene punches above its weight.

• Rowayton vs. New Canaan — The decompressing “off-the-train” coastal feel of Rowayton contrasted with New Canaan’s village rhythm.

• Looking ahead — “Crystal-ball” close: more great restaurants and amenities while preserving historic character.

Links & Social

• Jacqueline deMontravel — Website: ducksgoose.com • LinkedIn: Jacqueline deMontravel • IG: @newcanaan.living

• Christa Kenin (Douglas Elliman) — Profile: elliman.com/.../christa-kenin • LinkedIn: newcanaanrealtor

• Claire Bamundo (Greenspan Creative Marketing) — Site: greenspanmktg.com • LinkedIn: Claire Bamundo

• Hosts — John Engel: IG @jengel199 • LinkedIn John Engel | Roberto Cabrera: IG @rcabrera1 • LinkedIn Roberto Cabrera

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Keywords:
#NewCanaan #NewCanaanLiving #DarienLiving #Connecticut #ElmStreet #WavenyPark #walkabledowntown #topschools #familyfriendly #boroughsandburbs