In 2025, Franz Rosenberger and Evan Potvin once again distinguished themselves among the highest-performing agents in the global Coldwell Banker network and continue to lead the market here in Grand Isle County.

Recognizing Excellence: Franz Rosenberger

Franz Rosenberger earned the International President’s Premier Award, placing him among the top 1% of Coldwell Banker agents worldwide. He also ranked as the #2 Coldwell Banker sales agent in Vermont and the #1 agent in Grand Isle County.

In 2025 alone, Franz closed 33 units totaling $31.5 million in sales volume. With 23 years of real estate experience, his steady leadership, pricing expertise, and deep understanding of Lake Champlain lakefront and luxury properties continue to set him apart in a competitive market.

“Franz and his team did the most amazing job of showcasing our home with stunning photos, outstanding video and superb marketing. From listing to closing, the process could not have been smoother.” - Alex M.

 

Recognizing Excellence: Evan Potvin

Evan Potvin was honored with the International President’s Elite Award, ranking him among the top 2% of Coldwell Banker agents globally. He also earned recognition as the #5 Coldwell Banker sales agent in Vermont and the #2 agent in Grand Isle County.

Evan closed 34 units in 2025, totaling $24.6 million in sales volume. With 19 years in real estate, his strategic approach, strong negotiation skills, and extensive lakefront and Grand Isle County market knowledge consistently deliver results for buyers and sellers alike.

“Evan always called me back promptly, informed me of the process in detail, gave excellent advice, and was very professional, yet friendly. I would highly recommend him for any real estate endeavor, and anything else he puts his energy into.” - Kathy

 

Leadership & Market Impact

Franz and Evan are not only top-producing agents—they are co-owners of Coldwell Banker Islands Realty. In 2017, they purchased the company together, building upon Islands Realty’s strong legacy and guiding it into continued growth. Their leadership has helped grow CBIR as the #1 real estate agency in Grand Isle County, holding a 28% market share.

Their success reflects a deep commitment to the Lake Champlain Islands and Vermont community. With decades of combined experience and firsthand knowledge of the nuances of lakefront and Champlain Island properties, they provide clients with a level of insight that goes beyond the transaction.

What makes these recognitions especially meaningful is that they represent both individual achievement and collective strength. The example Franz and Evan set through professionalism, collaboration, and mentorship elevates our entire brokerage.

Congratulations to Franz and Evan on an exceptional 2025. We are proud of all that was accomplished this year and look forward to continued success in 2026.

 

 

As we look back on 2025, we’re filled with gratitude for the people and moments that shaped another meaningful year at Coldwell Banker Islands Realty. It was a year of connection, growth, and trust—trust from our clients, community, and one another. We had the privilege of guiding our clients throughout Northwest Vermont and beyond, and we are incredibly thankful to be part of so many important life chapters.

The Northwest Vermont real estate market remains a complex and competitive one. Vermont continues to face affordability and inventory challenges that impact many local buyers. Even so, there is cautious optimism to improve this issue with gradual inventory growth, local loan programs to help first-time homebuyers, and state initiatives to boost new-construction by updating zoning laws. Everyone is keenly watching interest rates with the hope of them lowering to ease pressure on people making a move. 

Year-over-year, the median home price has risen 5.7% to $491,425. Homes continue to sell quickly, with many going under contract in about 11 days. Both these metrics, rise in median sales price and low days on market, indicate demand remains strong among homebuyers. Inventory is improving with an 11% increase to 2,969 homes listed in 2025, but it remains tight, which means well-priced, move-in-ready homes tend to sell fast. Properties that are overpriced or need major updates often take longer to sell.

This year, our team proudly guided 95 clients through their real estate journeys across four Vermont counties. From first-time buyers taking a big step forward, to retirees embracing what’s next, to families and second-home owners finding spaces that fit their lives, every transaction represented a story we were honored to be part of. Together, our Realtors closed over $71 million in sales, making 2025 a record-breaking year for Coldwell Banker Islands Realty. It would not be possible without the trust of our clients and the support of our community.

Growth also showed up in the form of professional milestones. Franz Rosenberger earned the International President’s Elite Award, placing him among the top 2% of Coldwell Banker agents worldwide. Evan Potvin was recognized with the International Diamond Society Award, honoring Coldwell Banker agents in the top 8% globally. Their expertise in the Lake Champlain Islands and lakefront properties is proven in these numbers, providing unmatched service to clients in the area.

This year also marked an exciting addition to our team. We welcomed Ashley Wetherby, located in Fairfield, as a licensed sales associate. With a background in nursing, Ashley brings a thoughtful, client-first approach built on advocacy, care, and attention to detail. Her personal experience buying, leasing, selling, and building homes gives her a well-rounded perspective that serves her clients exceptionally well.

Giving back remained a cornerstone of who we are. During our Fall Food Drive, we donated over 330 pounds of essential items to the Champlain Islands Food Shelf. We were also proud to support community events and organizations, including Great Ice, CIDER, Snow Farm and Island Arts Concert Series, YOGI Baseball, and Toys for Kids. By supporting these efforts—and many others throughout the year—we’re investing back into the community that makes The Islands such a special place to call home.

Our impact extended beyond our local market through continued growth online. In 2025, our digital platforms reached over 6.4 million views, helping connect buyers and sellers to properties, insights, and the Vermont lifestyle. Our website welcomed over 91,000 visitors, serving as a trusted resource for real estate information and listings.

Social media remains a powerful tool in today’s market. Our Instagram community grew to nearly 15,000 followers, with more than 4 million views and multiple viral moments. Facebook saw strong engagement with +6,400 followers and +2 million views, while our YouTube channel reached 287,000 video views. In a market where exposure matters, staying current and visible online helps our clients’ properties stand out.

As we look back on the year, we’re deeply thankful for our clients, partners, and community who continue to place their trust in us. We’re proud of what we accomplished together and energized for what’s ahead. Here’s to another year of meaningful connections, thoughtful service, and continued growth.

We wish you a joyful holiday season, good health, and a bright New Year.

Another year has come and gone, and we are reflecting on how our social media content at Coldwell Banker Islands Realty helped spotlight Vermont’s lifestyle, real estate, and natural beauty for thousands of viewers.

From local hotspots to breathtaking lakefront home tours, our most-watched videos captured the essence of life in Northwest Vermont while helping our clients’ properties gain meaningful exposure with engaged buyers. Here are the highlights: 

1. Island Line Trail Adventure — 442K views | 12.7K likes | 15K shares

Our video of the iconic Island Line Trail became one of our top performers of the year. Viewers connected with the sweeping lake views, bike-friendly causeway, and sense of outdoor adventure that truly defines life in Vermont.

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Coldwell Banker Islands Realty (@cbislandsrealty)

2. Quaint Lakefront Cottage  — 397K views | 4K likes | 3.5K shares 

This cozy lakefront cottage in North Hero charmed viewers with its peaceful shoreline and classic Vermont camp feel. The video helped people imagine mornings on the water and what a summer spent by the lake in Vermont could feel like.

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Coldwell Banker Islands Realty (@cbislandsrealty)

3. Vermont Farmhouse Tour — 265K views | 9K likes | 5.2K Shares

This beautiful farmhouse highlights what quintessential countryside living looks like in Vermont. Wide porches, open fields, and expansive views helped viewers imagine a slow-living lifestyle that deeply resonates online.

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Coldwell Banker Islands Realty (@cbislandsrealty)

4. Private Waterfront Home— 222K views | 5.4K likes | 4.5K shares

This single-family home, located on a peaceful lagoon, stood out for its incredibly unique setting. Waterfront access, calm protected waters, and scenic views made it unlike anything else on the market.

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Coldwell Banker Islands Realty (@cbislandsrealty)

5. Expansive Lake House Retreat – 214K | 2.7K likes | 3K shares

Another favorite this year was a lake house feature that highlighted everything buyers love about Lake Champlain living — opportunities for swimming, big expansive windows, and sweeping lake views.

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Coldwell Banker Islands Realty (@cbislandsrealty)

 

Our most-watched videos of 2025 proved something unmistakable: strategic social media marketing matters. From scenic bike trails to cozy lakefront cottages and classic farmhouses, lifestyle features help people feel what living in Vermont is really like. When viewers can imagine early-morning coffee by the lake, evenings on the porch, or snowy mountain days with family, they form an emotional connection long before scheduling a showing.

That emotional pull is exactly why being present on social media is so important in today’s market. Buyers are browsing on their phones first, and a thoughtfully produced video helps your property stand out, capture attention, gain more exposure, and resonate more deeply than photos alone.

If you’re thinking about selling in 2026, we’d love to put the power of our social media reach and storytelling to work for you — highlighting not only your home, but the lifestyle and emotion that make it unforgettable. Learn more about our proven marketing strategy

This November, our community came together in a big way. Thanks to your generosity, we delivered over 330lbs of non-perishable food and personal items to The Champlain Islands Food Shelf to support families and individuals across Grand Isle County.

From pantry staples to essential household items, your donations will help keep shelves stocked as we move into the winter season. We are deeply grateful to everyone who donated or helped spread the word. Your support shows the strength of our Island community and the care we have for our neighbors.

To learn more about The Champlain Islands Food Shelf and their distribution schedule, visit www.champlainislandsfoodshelf.org.

 

 

We’re thrilled to welcome Ashley Wetherby to Coldwell Banker Islands Realty as a licensed real estate sales associate. A lifelong Vermonter, Ashley was born and raised in Grand Isle County and now lives in Franklin County. Her deep roots in the community and local knowledge make her an excellent resource for clients buying or selling in Franklin County, the Champlain Islands, and beyond.

Born and raised in the Lake Champlain Islands, Ashley knew from the start that this is where she wanted to return to start her career in real estate. With a background in nursing, her approach to real estate is grounded in advocacy, compassion, attention to detail, and trust. Her passion lies in helping people navigate life transitions—whether it’s finding your dream home, downsizing, or investing in your future.

Her personal journey in real estate includes buying, leasing, selling, and building, giving her first-hand insight into every step of the process. She understands how exciting–and sometimes overwhelming–real estate decisions can be, and is here to guide you with clarity, care, and confidence.

Outside of her professional career, Ashley enjoys spending time with her husband and two boys, camping, gardening, baking, and DIY’ing. These moments keep her grounded and serve as a reminder of why finding the right home to suit your individual & family needs matters so much.

Whether you’re planning to buy, sell, or explore life in Northwest Vermont, Ashley is a valuable resource. Connect with Ashley today!