What not to do when searching for your Vermont home this season

With longer days and motivated sellers, the summertime is an exciting time to look for your next home in Vermont. Before diving into showings and open houses, it’s important to be aware of common mistakes that can throw off your search and lead to buyer’s remorse. Here are five pitfalls to avoid for a smoother, smarter house-hunting experience.

1. Skipping the Pre-Approval Step

Before browsing listings or scheduling showings, talk to a lender and get pre-approved for a mortgage. Knowing your budget upfront not only helps you narrow your search but also shows sellers you’re a serious buyer, giving you a competitive edge when you’re ready to make an offer.

2. Not Defining Your Priorities

It’s easy to get swept away by charming porches or lake views, but without a clear list of must-haves and deal-breakers, you risk wasting time or settling for the wrong fit. Outline what matters most, whether it’s the location or the square footage, and stick to it.

3. Getting Caught Up in the Summer Frenzy

With homes moving quickly, summer buyers can feel pressure to act fast. While urgency is often needed, don’t let market hype push you into a rushed decision. Stay grounded, take time to evaluate each property, and lean on a local REALTOR® for guidance.

4. Thinking Only About Summer

A house might feel perfect for July barbecues, but how will it hold up in January? Consider the year-round functionality of the home, winter access, heating systems, storage, and long-term maintenance. Thinking ahead will save you from future surprises.

5. Going It Alone

The Vermont housing market can be competitive and nuanced. Partnering with a local real estate agent, especially a buyer’s representative, ensures you have someone in your corner. From scheduling showings to negotiating offers, a trusted professional will help you navigate every step with confidence.

Avoiding these common mistakes will help you make informed decisions and find a Vermont home that truly fits your lifestyle this summer and beyond. Ready to begin your home search? Schedule a buyer consultation with one of our local real estate agents or start browsing properties today.

Northwest Vermont is home to some of Vermont’s most scenic and unique state parks. Whether you’re looking for a sunny beach day, a picnic with a view, or an off-the-grid camping experience, there’s something here for everyone. This guide highlights seven must-visit lakefront parks in the Northwest Lake Champlain region, each offering its own kind of magic.

1. Sand Bar State Park – Milton/South Hero

With 2,000 feet of sandy shoreline, Sand Bar State Park is a summer favorite for swimming, sunbathing, and birdwatching. Located on the shores of Lake Champlain’s Inland Sea, the park offers kayak rentals, picnic areas, and panoramic lake views. It’s open daily from 10 AM to sunset–perfect for day trips with the family.

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2. Grand Isle State Park – Grand Isle

As Vermont’s most visited state park, Grand Isle State Park is a hub for camping and outdoor recreation. It features over 4,000 feet of lakeshore, designated areas for fishing and swimming, and well-maintained nature trails. With one of the state’s largest campgrounds, it’s a go-to destination for summer getaways.

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3. Knight Point State Park – North Hero

Just across the North Hero Drawbridge, Knight Point State Park offers easy access to Lake Champlain’s “Gut.” This 54-acre day-use park is ideal for picnics, scenic strolls, and small gatherings. There’s a rentable pavilion, making it a popular spot for reunions and celebrations.

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4. Alburgh Dunes State Park – Alburgh

Known for having one of the longest natural sand beaches on Lake Champlain, Alburgh Dunes State Park spans 625 acres of protected shoreline. With a gradual sandy shore, it’s a local favorite for beach games, swimming, anchoring the boat, and soaking up the summer sun. Bring a cooler, a beach chair, and spend the day at this lakeside gem.

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5. Burton Island State Park – St. Albans Bay

Accessible only by boat or ferry, Burton Island State Park offers a one-of-a-kind island experience. Located on a 253-acre island in Lake Champlain, the park is ideal for boat camping, shoreline hiking, and enjoying the peaceful rhythm of island life. There is even a small general store with a snack bar as well! Catch the ferry from Kill Kare State Park in St. Albans.

 

6. Knight Island State Park – North Hero, Inland Sea

This remote park is a 2-mile boat ride from North Hero Village, offering rustic lean-tos and serene solitude. Knight Island State Park is perfect for campers seeking a quiet, off-the-grid experience. In winter, it’s even possible to walk to the island over the frozen lake—a true Vermont adventure.

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7. Woods Island State Park – St. Albans, Inland Sea

For those who want a truly back-to-nature experience, Woods Island State Park delivers. This “remote area” campground is only accessible by personal boat and offers a rugged, minimally developed environment. With limited campsites and abundant wildlife, it’s a peaceful place for prepared and experienced campers and boaters.

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8. Niquette Bay State Park – Colchester

Nestled just outside the Islands in Colchester, Niquette Bay State Park offers forested hiking trails with stunning views of Lake Champlain. It’s ideal for walking, swimming, and picnicking. A short hike leads you to two swimming areas: one is a gradual sandy beach and the other is a more rugged rock ledge. This park is the perfect place for a peaceful escape into nature.

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With their natural beauty, peaceful atmosphere, and variety of outdoor experiences, Lake Champlain state parks are perfect for a summer day trip or an extended stay. Whether you’re camping under the stars or just soaking up the sun, these parks offer the best of Vermont’s lake life.

Looking for more to explore? Check out our guide to the Best Lakefront Restaurants in Northwest Vermont 

Looking for fireworks, parades, and family fun this Independence Day? Here’s your guide to the best 4th of July celebrations happening around Northwest Vermont and the Lake Champlain Islands:

Burlington Fireworks

Thursday, July 3rd

Celebrate early with Burlington’s beloved waterfront event featuring live music, over a dozen local food vendors, and one of the region’s most spectacular fireworks shows.

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North Hero Fireworks at Knight Point State Park

Thursday, July 3rd

Watch fireworks light up the sky over Lake Champlain during this community celebration at Knight Point State Park in North Hero—one of the most scenic spots in the Islands.

Colchester 4th of July Events

Friday, July 4th

Celebrate Independence Day with a full day of festivities in Colchester! Start the morning with a 5K Fun Run at Union Memorial School, followed by a parade starting at Colchester High School and ending on Lavigne Road. In the evening, head to Bayside Park for family fun, swimming, food, live music, and fireworks.

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South Hero 5K & Parade

Friday, July 4th

Kick off your morning with a flat, fast, and fun 5K in the Lake Champlain Islands. The course passes the former home of Clarence DeMar, a seven-time Boston Marathon winner. After the race, enjoy the charm of South Hero’s hometown parade through the village.

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Milton’s “Old-Fashioned 4th” Celebration

Friday, July 4th

Join Milton’s Independence Day parade at 11 AM and enjoy evening fun at Bombardier Park West from 5–10 PM with live music, games, food vendors, and fireworks at 9:30 PM. 

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Alburgh 4th of July Celebration

Friday, July 4th

Celebrate Independence Day in Alburgh with a community parade starting at 11 AM and a fireworks display in the evening. It’s a great way to enjoy festive family fun and show your patriotic spirit in this charming lakeside town.

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Essex Junction 4th of July Celebration

Friday, July 4th

Celebrate Independence Day at the Champlain Valley Fairgrounds. Enjoy live music from Sticks and Stones, food from local vendors, family-friendly activities, and fireworks at 9:30 PM. Festivities begin at 6 PM—don’t forget to bring your chairs and blankets!

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Bay Day in St. Albans

Saturday, July 5th 

Join the town’s much-loved Independence Day celebration on Saturday, July 5th, at St. Albans Bay Park. Enjoy a mid-morning volleyball tournament, followed by live music, delicious food, and a fireworks show at dusk.

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Wherever you choose to celebrate, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the 4th of July in Northwest Vermont. From lakefront fireworks to hometown parades and family fun, these events offer something for everyone. Wishing you a safe, festive, and memorable Independence Day!

As of May 2025, the Northwest Vermont real estate market shows a steady rise in home values with a year-to-date median sales price of $515,000—up 4.1 percent compared to the same period in 2024. Homes continue to sell quickly, maintaining a median of just 7 days on the market. While the number of closed sales dipped slightly by 3.3 percent, sellers are still receiving nearly full asking price, with an average of 99.8 percent of the list price. The cost per square foot rose 5.4 percent to $271, reflecting increasing property values in the region. New listings, however, have declined sharply by 42.8 percent, which may contribute to lower inventory and increased competition for buyers. If you're curious about what these trends mean for your neighborhood or plans, contact us for a personalized market analysis.

This iconic 1843 Greek Revival was beautifully restored by a world-renowned fashion designer and architect. Inside, you’ll find a chef’s kitchen with marble countertops, a cozy library, and elegant living spaces with original fireplaces. The first-floor primary suite opens to a patio with lake views, while upstairs features guest suites, a bunk room, and a media space. Outside, enjoy a landscaped pool, screened porch, and shared lakefront access with private dock privileges.

This home is currently for sale. See Listing