The economy is improving, unemployment is falling, and the U.S. real estate market remains strong as we head into the holiday season, a period when activity typically slows as people take time to travel, celebrate, and spend time with loved ones. Although the market is not as frenetic as was seen earlier this year, buyer demand is high, bolstered by attractive mortgage rates and a low supply of inventory.

New Listings increased 6.1 percent for single-family homes but decreased 4.5 percent for townhouse-condo properties. Pending Sales increased 11.7 percent for single-family homes but decreased 10.4 percent for townhouse-condo properties. Inventory decreased 45.6 percent for single-family homes and 44.8 percent for townhouse-condo properties.

The Median Sales Price was up 15.8 percent to $415,000 for single-family homes and 7.0 percent to $276,000 for townhouse-condo properties. Days on Market decreased 20.5 percent for single-family homes and 44.4 percent for townhouse-condo properties. Months Supply of Inventory decreased 47.4 percent for single-family homes and 40.0 percent for townhouse-condo properties.

The most recent data from the National Association of REALTORS® reports the median single-family existing home sales price rose 16% in the third quarter of this year to $363,700, with all four regions of the country experiencing double-digit price growth. In new construction, builder confidence increased in November, surpassing analyst expectations and rising to 83 on the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB)/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index (HMI), the highest level since spring, despite persistent labor and supply chain challenges and a shortage of available lots.

December's Hidden Vermont Home is a covert home tucked back on 10 pastoral acres completely surrounded by mature trees and landscaping. The property abuts a 138 acres of farm land in land trust, so you don't have to worry about any neighbors if you're looking for privacy! It is located in the heart of the Lake Champlain Islands on Grand Isle's West Shore, just a 35 minute ride to Burlington, Vermont. Subscribe to our newsletter Island Insights for more Hidden Homes!

Giving Back with Coldwell Banker Islands Realty

At Coldwell Banker Islands Realty we believe a thriving business begins with the support of the community. We are proud to be a part of Grand Isle County's close-knit sphere and are grateful for the continued support of our clients and professional partners.

To show our appreciation to our fellow Islanders, we will donate a portion of our commission to a Grand Isle County organization through our annual Commissions for Community program. We look forward to giving back to our community for years to come.

This year we will be donating to the Grand Isle County Food Shelf, the Island Fall Youth Soccer Program and holding our first Champlain Islands Christmas Tree Event. We are proud to be a part of the Island's small knit community and are grateful for the continued support of our clients, professional partners, and community members.

Toys For Kids of Vermont 

Our office at 38 Community Lane will be a toy drop-off location for Toys for Kids of Vermont. Feel free to come by our office any time between 9am to 5pm until December 18th with an unwrapped toy or gift card. All of the toys donated to our barrel will stay in Grand Isle County and be distributed to local families through the Caring & Sharing program. 

Champlain Islands Xmas Tree Event

On December 7th our company will be spreading Champlain Island cheer by providing free Christmas trees for community members who may be experiencing financial hardships. We will have a bundle of 50 locally grown Vermont available from 4:30pm to 6:30pm. These will be first come, first serve so arrive early! All are welcome to join this joyful community event. There will be hot cocoa, cookies, and even an appearance from Santa Claus. Visit the event page for more updates. 

Searching for the perfect present?

This holiday season we challenge you to shop local and support Grand Isle County businesses. We have you covered with gift inspiration and great shopping spots right here in the Champlain Islands! Read our Champlain Islands Holiday Gift Guide below.

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As we roll into the month of December the search for the perfect present begins...This holiday season we challenge you to shop local and support Grand Isle County businesses. We have you covered with gift inspiration and great shopping spots right here in the Champlain Islands! 

1. Makers Market at Kraemer & Kin

To appease the beer lovers on your list, head to Kraemer and Kin’s tasting room in North Hero. Pick up a gift card or a four-pack of their beautifully packaged craft brews. We also recommend pairing that with some of their merchandise, such as the winter beanies. Make sure to stop by the ‘Maker’s Markets’ that they are hosting every weekend this year leading up to Christmas. Blue Heron Farm, Muriel’s of Vermont and Isle La Motte Vineyard are just a few of the local makers that will be there! Shop

2. Arbor Farm Market

The South Hero Village recently welcomed Arbor Farm Market this past Spring. The market has a variety of farm fresh products as well as many items from local makers. You can visit them Wednesdays-Sundays to browse the great gifts such as handcrafted jewelry and pretty pottery pieces. Shop

3. Grand Isle Art Works

The Grand Isle Art Works has a variety of fine arts and crafts ranging from glass, mixed media, clay, wood, photography and much more! While you're there, keep an eye out for Across the Grain Pottery and their raku fish sculptures. This South Hero pottery studio specializes in functional pottery and raku, they even offer classes as well! Surprise your crafty friend or family member with the gift of a private pottery lesson. Shop

4. Hero's Welcome General Store

When in doubt, head to Hero’s Welcome in the North Hero Village. This general store is an Island staple, packed with games, books, gag gifts, household items, clothing, and a wide selection of local goods! Whether you’re looking for your niece, nephew, or co-worker, this spot will be sure to have something for everyone on your list! Shop 

5. Viva Marketplace

Viva Marketplace while it is closed for the season they are holding annual holiday markets on Saturdays. You can expect to find curated gifts, jewelry, clothing, and many other items made right in Vermont . Shop

6. Dreamwalker Farm Country Store

The country store at Dreamwalker Farm in Grand Isle offers a variety of farm fresh products. During the holiday season, they have make your own Vermont Gift Baskets with their meats and local makers products. Shop

7. Savage Gardens Bijoux Jewelry

A local farmer, owner of Savage Gardens, and a jeweler?! Amanda Gervais does it all, including creating unique sterling silver pieces that are popular among many. Based out of North Hero, one of her most well-known pieces are her Lake Champlain pendants. To see more of Bijoux Jewelry’s designs visit her etsy shop or you can find her jewels at Arbor Farm Market. Shop

8. Doghouse Pottery 

Doghouse Pottery has an array of beautiful mugs to mixing bowls and even growlers you will be sure to find a special pottery item for someone on your list! All of their products are 100% handmade in South Hero, Vermont. Their shop is currently closed to foot traffic so check out their website to start browsing! Shop 

9. Champlain Islands Candy Lab

Is it really the holidays if you aren’t indulging in sweet treats? The Champlain Islands Candy Lab in South Hero, Vermont has an assortment of to die for Vermont artisanal chocolates and baked goods. They also offer holiday gift boxes and custom gift boxes, perfect for the chocolate connoisseur in your life. Shop

10. Meadow Lane Macrame

Meadow Lane Macrame is a Handmade Fiber Art shop out of South Hero that creates unique pieces from wall art to super fun earrings. These boho inspired designs are irresistible and their plant hangers are a great gift for those with a green thumb. You can view the different macrame collections on their website. Shop

That’s a wrap on our holiday gift guide folks! Don't see your favorite shop on our list? Please comment their name or website below. 

We are pleased to announce that Sam Rossetti-Thiels has joined Coldwell Banker Islands Realty as a licensed sales associate. Learn more about Sam below. 

Sam is a born and raised Vermonter who has been working at a large box retailer for the past 10 years. She worked her way up the ranks to management and gained many useful skills that will carry with her in her new career as a real estate agent.

Sam's positive attitude, excellent customer service and organizational skills have made her successful in her career thus far, however she was looking for a change. Due to her love of HGTV home remodeling shows and enjoyment from working with people, Sam decided that a career in real estate would be the perfect next step in her journey.

Sam recently went through the home buying process herself and was fascinated by the moving parts involved and all the work that goes into a real estate transaction. She understands how being on the other side feels and can give you the guidance and confidence needed to navigate this large investment purchase.

When Sam isn't selling real estate, you will catch her walking and exploring trails, enjoying the lake and hosting girls night for her closest friends. She loves spending time outdoors but she can't wait to come home to her cats and snuggle on the couch. Sam also enjoys doing renovations to her own home and creating equity through finishing touches and design.

Connect with Sam today!