Newsletter | Winter 2026 | Issue 7 | | | |
HAPPY WINTER 2026!
Whether you’re here in West Falmouth enjoying this surprisingly snowy season, or reading from somewhere warm and sunny, we’re thinking of you. This winter has been a bit out of character for us — more snow and ice than we’re used to — transforming familiar paths, marshes, and shorelines into a true New England postcard.
For those who aren’t in town to see it firsthand, we’re sharing these photos of Chapoquoit Beach and the frozen marsh at sunset taken by Mary Bunker-Ryther. Even in the coldest months, West Falmouth has a special kind of beauty — quiet, sparkling, and worth savoring!
Wherever you’re spending the season, we hope this little glimpse of home brings a smile.
| | | 0 WEST FALMOUTH HWY ADVOCACY | Please see the article in the February 13th edition of the Falmouth Enterprise for more information about ongoing efforts to protect the forest land at 0 West Falmouth Highway from development. On February 10, Town Planning staff opened the sole proposal submitted by the Falmouth Housing Trust, a non-profit developer, who seeks to purchase the nearly three-acre parcel for $1 and construct 2 single family homes at a projected cost of $1,070,000. It is not yet clear whether funding from the Town’s Affordable Housing Fund will be requested. We understand that Town staff will review the proposal and make a recommendation to the Select Board to accept or reject it. We encourage residents to attend that meeting and/or share their thoughts in advance with the Planning Department, Town Manager and Select Board. Transparency, public safety, and preservation of natural resources in historic West Falmouth remain important priorities for our community. | | | 2025 TREE LIGHTING & SOCIAL | | | |
HISTORIC DISTRICT SIGNAGE
We’re pleased to share some exciting news from the Falmouth Historical Commission. With funding from the Town, beautiful new signage is now in production for all seven historic districts — including West Falmouth.
Shown here is a rendering of the two signs that will mark the beginning and end of our Historic District. Each sign will be one-sided (18” wide by 24” tall and 1.5” thick), featuring a raised town seal and hand-painted, v-carved lettering — a thoughtful design that reflects the character of our village. WFVA will provide input on placement, and because Route 28A is a state highway, coordination with MA DOT will be part of the process. Installation is anticipated in late spring or early summer. We’re grateful to the Historical Commission and the Town for helping highlight and celebrate the history that makes West Falmouth so special.
| | |
SNEAK PEEK INTO APRIL 2026 TOWN MEETING
The Select Board recently met and approved 35 articles for the April Town Meeting Warrant. Key items include approval of the FY2027 town budget, funding for capital projects and affordable housing, and several proposed housing-related measures — including an Affordable Rental Housing Property Tax Exemption, acceptance of the state’s Seasonal Community designation, a short term rental annual registration requirement with the Board of Health and a new short-term rental bylaw. Other articles address public safety and neighborhood concerns (including false alarms, winter water runoff, and a proposed “No Solicitation List”), as well as land conservation issues. Notably, article 23 seeks to place 484 Brick Kiln Road (the original site selected for the new police station, then rejected) to the care, custody and control of the Conservation Commission and similarly, article 24 a petitioner's article seeks to do the same for 19 parcels surrounding Long Pond. Interestingly, 0 West Falmouth Highway is not included in either of these efforts which is shocking considering the amount of information that has been provided to Town leaders supporting it's apparent conservation status. Town Meeting will also consider Community Preservation funding for recreation, historic preservation, and affordable housing. You DO have a voice as a taxpayer whether you are a seasonal resident or a year round resident. click here for Town Meeting Member contact information
| |
WEST FALMOUTH REAL ESTATE MARKET SNAPSHOT
NOVEMBER 1, 2025 - FEBRUARY 1, 2026
Active Listings: 3 properties currently on the market
Pending Sales: 3 properties under contract
Closed Sales: 10 homes sold (7 during same period last year)
Average Sale Price: $1,195,500 ($1,949,285 same period last year)
Average Days on Market: 83 days (vs 80 days last year)
Even during the quiet winter season, sales activity has increased compared to last year. This is a strong sign that buyer demand for West Falmouth remains steady. The lower average sale price reflects which homes sold rather than a drop in values. In a small village market, just one or two high-end waterfront transactions, as there were last year at this time, can dramatically swing averages year to year. Inventory remains extremely limited, with only three homes for sale. Tight supply continues to support property values and keeps competition strong when desirable homes come to market. The presence of pending sales this winter, compared to none last year, suggests momentum building as we head toward spring. If you’re considering buying or selling in West Falmouth, this low-inventory environment can create unique opportunities. Reach out to discuss current market conditions and timing strategies specific to your property.
Content provided by Katie Collette, Principal, Managing Broker
katie@erminelovell.com
| | | | |
"IT TAKES A VILLAGE...WE COULD USE YOUR HELP"
We’re a small community organization run by a group of neighbors who care deeply about West Falmouth. Our board members volunteer their time because we believe in maintaining the character of our village, advocating for public safety, and protecting the natural resources that make this place so special. As our work continues to grow, we could really use help from residents passionate about community engagement who can assist us with our social media presence, website redesign and perhaps event planning. This could be a wonderful opportunity for a student or young professional studying technology, communications, or marketing who wants meaningful, real-world experience while giving back to the community. Or perhaps you are raising the next generation of West Falmouth residents, value civic involvement and have energy and ideas to share. We could use your time and talent if you've been looking for an opportunity to get involved. Please email Tammy Gilbert and she will respond promptly!
| | |
Submit your answer and be entered in a drawing to win a $25 gift card!
CLICK HERE TO ENTER!
| | What are these women doing in Chloe Bowerman's dining room in 1903? | | |
The photo shared in our Fall newsletter was the fireplace in the Bowerman House at the Saconesset homestead, the oldest house in Falmouth built in 1678. Congratulations to Doris Cameron who submitted the correct entry!
| | | | | |
