In the past year, the reliance on technology has increased immensely and the real estate industry is no exception to this dependence. Incorporating cutting edge tech trends such as drone photography, virtual tours, and HDR photography into a home's marketing plan will ensure that your home gets noticed fast.
1. Drone Photo and Video
Aerial photography is changing the real estate game! Drone photography is crucial to fully capture unique lakefront homes. According to MLS, Homes with aerial photos sold 68% faster. Whether it's a waterfront home or a unique inland property, aerial shots ensure that your home will get noticed.
2. Virtual Home Tours
Popularity among home tour videos has increased immensely due to buyers not being able to physically go to showings. Walkthrough virtual tours give buyers detailed information about the property to give you a realistic layout of the space and offerings. This also allows buyers to preview multiple homes in a short amount of time to decipher which homes they would like to go see in person.
3. HDR Photography
High Dynamic Range photography is a technique that involves shooting multiple images of the same scene at different exposure values and then merging them together to create a seamless scene. Photos are the first impression of your home so it is paramount to have great images that capture the character, main features, and layout of your home. This, coupled with light editing, makes homes stand out online while maintaining its true depiction!
Every home is unique and the marketing efforts must reflect that. At CBIR, we stay on top of the latest real estate trends and create a personalized marketing plan to ensure that your home stands out. Learn more about our 360 Marketing Plan.
We are pleased to announce that Paul Habersang has joined Coldwell Banker Islands Realty as a licensed sales associate. Learn more about Paul below.
Paul has enjoyed living in the Green Mountain State since 2011, when he relocated from his native state of Connecticut for a new career opportunity. He is a seasoned professional with many years’ experience in sales, customer service, and relationship development. Throughout his career both in corporate and non-profit settings, Paul has always believed that timely responsiveness to client inquiries and consistent follow through on commitments are two key elements that drive customer satisfaction. In the business of transacting real estate, both timely responsiveness and following through on commitments are key when striving for a successful outcome!
Paul earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management from Quinnipiac University in Hamden, CT. He worked in the electrical industry for nearly twenty years with both General Electric and Square D Companies. During that time, several job transfers around the country required the sale and purchase of a number of homes. As a result, Paul understands and appreciates the purchase and sales process, particularly by recognizing that the sale or purchase of a home is often the biggest transaction of one's life!
In 2008, Paul earned a Masters of Divinity from the General Theological Seminary, New York City, and has served in several capacities within The Episcopal Church USA. Paul is a believer in giving back to the community and dedicates some of his time to serving on a Professional Advisory Team at the UVM Medical Center in Burlington while also serving on the Board of Trustees for the Brookhaven Treatment and Learning Center, Chelsea, VT. Paul enjoys staying physically active and working outdoors. He is the proud father of two adult sons and currently resides in South Burlington.
With more shoreline than any other part of Vermont, the Lake Champlain Islands region is a unique and beautiful place located in Grand Isle County. The Islands are made up of five towns that all boast small-town rural charm with breathtaking scenery and an abundance of stunning lakefront homes.
1. South Hero, Vermont
The Town of South Hero is the southernmost town, and shares an Island with the Town of Grand Isle. Known as the gateway to the Champlain Islands South Hero is a 20-25 minute commute to Burlington, Vermont. Whether it’s your first visit or your daily commute it’s hard not to stop at the two mile Sandbar Causeway’s resting area to take in the panoramic lake views. South hero residents pride themselves on having a strong sense of community and volunteerism ultimately making this a sought after place for families. Among great lakefront properties, South Hero has a growing town center with restaurants, the Community Health Center, Community Bank and the Worthen Library. In the warmer months you will see cyclists on the Island Line Trail, concerts at Snow Farm Vineyard, and apple picking at Allenholm and Hackett’s Orchard.
2. Grand Isle, Vermont
The Town of Grand Isle is located on the northern side of the Island it shares with South Hero, and is just 25 to 35 minutes to Burlington, Vermont. Known as the beauty spot of Vermont, Grand Isle boasts a rural lifestyle with fertile farmland and pastoral views of Lake Champlain. In the summer months residents attend the Champlain Islands Farmers’ Market and indulge in Island Homemade Ice Cream. On Grand Isle’s eastern shore you will find residents swimming at Marycrest Beach or launching their boat at Ladd’s Landing Marina. The town is home to Vermont’s most visited state park, Grand Isle State Park, and New England’s oldest standing log cabin, Hyde Log Cabin. On the western shore, Gordon’s Landing offers an easy commute to New York State by-way-of the ferry that travels to Plattsburgh, New York all year round.
3. North Hero, Vermont
The Town of North Hero is centrally located in Grand Isle County on the North Hero Island. It is named after the Revolutionary War hero Ethan Allen. Known as the shire town, North Hero is a quiet community with a picturesque village directly on City Bay of Lake Champlain. The village includes stunning views of the Green Mountains in the distance and is home to popular destinations such as Hero's Welcome General Store, The North Hero House and Shore Acres Inn & Restaurant. North Hero has a close-knit community with strong, independent values. The elongated Island has much to offer in terms of real estate, whether it's on Pelot's Bay or the shores of the Inland Sea you will find an abundance of lakefront cottages and beautiful year-round homes.
4. Alburgh, Vermont
The Town of Alburgh is the gateway to Vermont from New York and Canada. It has the highest amount of lakefront properties compared to the other Champlain Island towns. In Alburgh, you will find beautiful historic farmhouses as well as newly constructed homes in both country and lakefront settings. With its close proximity to New York, Canada, and St. Albans City, Alburgh is a favored place to reside. You will find walking trails and abundant nature. The sandy beaches at Alburgh Dunes State Park serve as a popular destination for residents and visitors. Alburgh is also home to one of the few golf courses located in the Champlain Islands. Open to the public, the course overlooks Lake Champlain and the deck at the 19th Hole Bar & Grill has some of the best seats in town.
5. Isle La Motte, Vermont
The Town of Isle La Motte is the northernmost of the Champlain Island towns and embodies a quiet rustic lifestyle with astonishing views of Lake Champlain. From impressive homes nestled on the shores of Lake Champlain to quaint seasonal cottages, Isle La Motte has much to offer in terms of real estate and lifestyle. Isle La Motte has a rich history. It was the land at which Samuel De Champlain first landed on in 1609, on the lake that now bears his name. The French built a fort in 1666 which is now St. Anne’s Shrine, a historic and peaceful setting that has become a popular destination for locals and tourists. The fort was built by Pierre De La Motte for which the island is named after. Isle La Motte is a geological wonder as well. The area is home to Chazy Reef, the world’s oldest coral reef, and the 85 acre Goodsell Ridge Fossil Preserve.
The Champlain Islands is not just real estate, it's a sense of place. We want you to find yours in this rich, beautiful landscape of close-knit communities, history, and countless places to explore. Let a Coldwell Banker Islands Realty agent help you find the perfect home in the Lake Champlain Islands. To begin your property search browse available homes in the Champlain Islands.
See the latest Northwestern Vermont real estate market report presented by NVBR below.
Mortgage interest rates ticked a bit higher in February, but remain below their February 2020 levels. Interest rates may rise a bit further in coming weeks, but according to Freddie Mac chief economist Sam Khater, “while there are multiple temporary factors driving up rates, the underlying economic fundamentals point to rates remaining in the low 3 percent range for the year.” With rates still at historically low levels, home sales are unlikely to be significantly impacted, though higher rates do impact affordability.
New Listings decreased 16.6 percent for single-family homes but increased 19.6 percent for townhouse-condo properties. Pending Sales increased 21.1 percent for single-family homes and 18.0 percent for townhouse-condo properties. Inventory decreased 62.5 percent for single-family homes and 66.1 percent for townhouse-condo properties.
The Median Sales Price was up 20.3 percent to $329,000 for single-family homes and 7.0 percent to $264,000 for townhouse-condo properties. Days on Market decreased 39.8 percent for single-family homes and 48.6 percent for townhouse-condo properties. Months Supply of Inventory decreased 63.0 percent for single-family homes and 66.7 percent for townhouse-condo properties.
For homeowners currently struggling due to COVID-19, government agencies are continuing efforts to help those in need. The Federal Housing Finance Agency announced they will allow homeowners with loans backed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to receive an additional three months of forbearance, extending total payment relief to up to 18 months. Qualified homeowners must already be in a forbearance plan as of the end of February.
Looking for something to do during the colder winter months? From extreme winter sports to tranquil lower impact exercises, the Champlain Islands have an abundance of recreational activities waiting for us to try. When heading out on the ice always take precaution and check conditions before!
1. Ice Fishing
Lake Champlain is home to Vermont’s premier fishing destination and has many ice fishing opportunities. The shallow waters near the Sandbar causeway are a hotspot for northern pike! Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just out fishing for fun, this family fun winter activity is enjoyed by all ages.
The ice conditions near the causeway make for the perfect spot to try out this new extreme winter sport. Kite Wings are handheld wing sails for sailing on low friction surfaces such as ice or snow, strap on skates or skis and get ready for an epic workout.
When the weather sets up just right the ice on Lake Champlain especially at the sandbar makes for great skating! Whether you are figure skating or out playing pond hockey this serene scene takes it to the next level! Also, consider checking out if the rink in North Hero's City Bay is set up by Great IceVermont! This is located right on the frozen shore across from Hero's Welcome.
On a sunny day, take to the lake and blaze your own trail! Try snowshoeing or cross-country skiing and carve out your own path on the frozen shores of Lake Champlain.
Image source: Annie Gardiner
5. Sled the Sandbar in Style
Get your adrenaline pumping and sled Lake Champlain on your snow machine of choice. Be sure to check and make sure the ice is thick enough to safely support the vehicle you are using to explore the frozen lake.
6. Walk the Island Line Trail
The Island Line Trail is a 14-mile trail that spans across Lake Champlain from Colchester to South Hero. Bundle up and head to the Lake Champlain Causeway for a peaceful winter stroll. Walk the beautiful and historic path while enjoying panoramic views of Lake Champlain, the Green Mountains, and the Adirondacks. Better known as the Bike Path, you can access this trail from Colchester or South Hero.
7. Snowkite on the Frozen Lake
Weather permitting, snowkiting is an epic winter sport with opportunity for major air!
Looking to get your steps in? Knight Island is just a 40 minute walk from the North Hero Village! Knight Island State Park is located just around 1.7 miles from the North Hero Village on Lake Champlain’s Inland Sea. You can walk, grab your snowshoes, or strap into cross-country skis to reach the destination!
Image Source: Annie Gardiner
9. Warm up with a Sunset Bonfire
Grab your buddies and some local brews for an evening by the fire. We recommend trying out Kraemer and Kin or the newest addition to town, Two Heroes Brewery.
Last minute trip up to the mountain anyone? Luckily, by living in the Champlain Islands we have world renowned ski resorts right at our fingertips! While this last activity is not located in the Islands, Bolton Valley Ski Resort, is only a 45 minute drive from South Hero. Plus, they even have night skiing and riding!
Its incomparable state parks, close knit community and countless outdoor activities make the Champlain Islands region a wonderful place to enjoy year-round or seasonally. Learn more about life in the Lake Champlain Islands here.
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