As the 4th of July approaches, Northwest Vermont gears up for a series of vibrant and patriotic celebrations. From bustling city fireworks to small-town parades and live music, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Here's a guide to the top Independence Day events happening in the area.

Burlington Fireworks - July 3rd

Kick off your Independence Day celebrations early with the Burlington Waterfront's spectacular fireworks display on Wednesday, July 3, 2024. Enjoy a night of music, food vendors, and a stunning fireworks show against the backdrop of Lake Champlain.

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Independence Day Celebrations in the Champlain Islands

On July 3rd, head to Knight Point State Park in North Hero for a lively performance by Still Kickin’ followed by a spectacular fireworks display at 9 pm. On July 4th, parades will be held in South Hero and Alburgh at 11am. In the evening, enjoy a summer concert featuring the Phil Abair Band at Snow Farm Vineyard in South Hero, Vermont. 

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Colchester Fireworks

Join Colchester's lineup of 4th of July events starting with a parade at 10:00 a.m. at Colchester High School, proceeding down Blakely Road, and ending at Lavigne Road. The festivities continue at Bayside Park with a 5K Fun Run, vendors, live music, and culminate in a fireworks show.

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Bay Day Celebration in St. Albans

On Saturday, July 6th, St. Albans hosts its Bay Day celebration. Participate in a volleyball tournament, paddle boat race, and duct tape regatta. Enjoy live music by Rushmore, delicious food, and a fireworks finale.

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Milton 4th of July

Milton celebrates the 4th of July with a parade at 11 am, a Chicken BBQ & DJ at 5:30 p.m. at the Fire Station, a community band performance at 7:30 p.m. at Bombardier Park West, and fireworks at dusk.

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Essex Junction July 4th Celebration

The annual July 4th Celebration in Essex Junction takes place at the Champlain Valley Fairgrounds Midway Lawn. Starting at 6 pm, enjoy live music, games, face painting, balloon artists, 11+ inflatables, and more. The night concludes with an impressive fireworks display.

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Northwest Vermont offers a multitude of ways to celebrate the 4th of July. Whether you're drawn to the vibrant festivities in Burlington or the charming local events in the Champlain Islands, there's no shortage of patriotic fun. Gather your friends and family, enjoy the fireworks, and create lasting memories this Independence Day!

We are pleased to announce that Madeline Spaulding has joined Coldwell Banker Islands Realty as a licensed sales associate. Learn more about Madeline below. 

Madeline Spaulding is a fourth-generation Vermonter who grew up in Franklin County. For the past two years, she has managed her family's investment properties in Swanton, Vermont, while working on-site as the project manager for a newly built multi-family property. She grew up listening to her parent's stories about real estate and became interested in the industry at a young age. Madeline is working towards a Bachelor of Science in Business Management with a concentration in project management. Madeline's experience in property management, education in business management, and customer service experience have set her up for success in pursuing a career in real estate. She hopes to share her knowledge of Franklin Country with prospective clients and looks forward to answering your questions.

Madeline lives in Swanton on Lake Champlain, enjoying the westerly sunset views. She has a fondness for admiring local waterfowl. In her free time, she enjoys going for long walks, listening to podcasts, appreciating Vermont's natural beauty, and, above all, spending time with her family. Madeline's local area knowledge will be invaluable to people thinking of buying or selling in Franklin County. Her strong work ethic and detail-oriented thinking will ensure no question goes unanswered. She genuinely enjoys helping others and is excited to turn her early passions into a career in real estate.

Connect with Madeline today!

 

Spring is in full swing here in Northwest Vermont, and with the warmer weather comes a bustling real estate market. Whether you're thinking of buying your dream home or selling your current one, understanding the market trends can help you make the best decisions. 

The Vermont real estate market is known for its seasonal changes. This spring, we're seeing a steady start, with more listings becoming available and increased activity. For both buyers and sellers, this is an exciting time to explore opportunities and make informed choices. 

Let's take a closer look at the current state of our real estate market using the latest data from May 2024. (Data is for single-family home sales in Grand Isle, Franklin, and Chittenden County.) 

• Median Sales Price = $508k

The median sales price of $508,000 reflects a slight rise from last month and a notable increase from last year. For sellers, this means that home values are continuing to appreciate, potentially leading to a profitable sale. For buyers, it's a sign that the market is healthy, and investing in property could offer good returns in the future. Keeping an eye on price trends can help you make a well-informed decision about timing your purchase or sale.

• Closed Sales = 140

With 140 closed sales in May, there was a big jump from April with a 57% change and a 17%  increase compared to last year. This indicates a busy market where more homes are successfully selling. For sellers, this could mean a greater chance of finding a buyer quickly. For buyers, it shows there's active competition, so being ready to act fast when you find the right home is important.

• Median Days on Market = 6

Homes are typically staying on the market for just 6 days, which is a 14.3% decrease from the previous month and consistent with last year. This quick turnover is great news for sellers, as it means your home might sell rapidly if priced correctly and in good condition. For buyers, it highlights the need to be decisive and prepared, as desirable homes are not staying available for long.

• List Price Received = 101.4%

Sellers are getting an average of 101.4% of their list price, which is up from the previous month but slightly down from last year. This suggests that many homes are selling for above the asking price. For sellers, this means there’s potential to get even more than your asking price if the demand is strong. For buyers, it’s a reminder that offering close to or above the list price could be necessary to secure your desired property in a competitive market.

• New Listings = 272

With 272 new listings, there's a significant 63% increase from the previous month and a 14% increase from last year. This is positive for buyers, as more new homes are coming onto the market, providing a wider selection. For sellers, it means more competition, so making sure your home is well-presented and priced competitively is essential to attract buyers.

Northwest Vermont Market Review By County:

Statistics are for single-family home sales in May 2024.

Chittenden County:

• Active Inventory = 130

• Median Sales Price = $630,000

• Median Days On Market = 5

• Closed Sales = 88

• List Price Received = 101.9%

Franklin County:

• Active Inventory = 92

• Median Sales Price = $391,500

• Median Days On Market = 8

• Closed Sales = 40

• List Price Received = 100.9%

Grand Isle County:

• Active Inventory = 38

• Median Sales Price = $356,750

• Median Days On Market = 11

• Closed Sales = 12

• List Price Received = 99.6%

Partner with a Local Real Estate Expert

Understanding these market trends can be challenging, especially with the competitive nature of the Northwest Vermont real estate market. That's why partnering with a local real estate expert is crucial. They can provide you with a detailed market analysis tailored to your area of interest, helping you navigate the complexities of buying or selling a home.

A market analysis offers a deep dive into the current conditions, including comparable home sales, pricing strategies, and buyer demand. This information is essential for setting the right price for your home or making a competitive offer.

Ready to make your move in the Northwest Vermont real estate market? Contact us today for a personalized market analysis. Let’s work together to turn your real estate dreams into reality.

June's hidden home retreat is a contemporary lakefront residence in South Hero, Vermont. Set on a secluded peninsula with incredible lake and mountain views, this renovated residence epitomizes modern lakefront living. This home is currently for sale. Learn more here.

As summer unfolds in Vermont, the allure of waterfront dining beckons. In the Northwest corner of the state, amidst picturesque lakeshores and quaint towns, a culinary adventure awaits. Here's a curated selection of the finest waterfront restaurants to elevate your 2024 summer experience.

 

The Rest Stop, South Hero, VT
Located in South Hero, Vermont, The Rest Stop food truck and bar emerged last summer as a seasonal delight from the owners of the highly acclaimed Folino's Pizza. Overlooking Keeler Bay and the marina, this gem offers casual outdoor dining with lobster rolls, hearty chicken sandwiches, and local draft beer, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely meal by the water.

 

Spot on the Dock, Burlington, VT
Nestled along Burlington's waterfront, Spot on the Dock provides prime seating to bask in the beauty of Lake Champlain. Indulge in seafood classics and inventive cocktails from the bar or couches, creating an unforgettable lakeside dining experience.

 

North Hero House Inn & Restaurant/Pier Bar, North Hero, VT
Perched on City Bay's shores in North Hero, Vermont, this historic inn and restaurant exudes old-world charm. Whether at the lakeside Pier Bar or the elegant dining room with Lake Champlain views, guests are treated to culinary delights and scenic vistas, with the added convenience of boat parking.
 

Waterworks Food & Drink, Winooski, VT
Embracing its unique waterfront locale in downtown Winooski, Vermont, Waterworks offers stunning views of the Winooski River from the Champlain Mill. With an eclectic menu and creative cocktails, this historic restaurant is open daily for dinner, promising an unforgettable dining experience.
 

Kraemer & Kin, Alburgh, VT
At the Alburgh Golf Links, Kraemer And Kin's brewery and tap room combines culinary excellence with craft brews amidst stunning vistas. Whether after a round of golf or a dedicated trip, every moment at this lakeside retreat is sure to be cherished.

The Inn at Shelburne Farms, Shelburne, VT
Amidst the beauty of Shelburne Farms, this historic inn in Shelburne, Vermont, offers luxurious accommodations and dining steeped in elegance. With farm-to-table fare and panoramic lake views, guests are invited to savor Vermont's natural splendor with breakfast and dinner offerings.

Bayside Pavilion, St Albans, VT
Located in Saint Albans, VT, Bayside Pavilion offers year-round dining with gorgeous views of Lake Champlain. Enjoy fantastic meals and perfectly crafted drinks in a warm, welcoming atmosphere, conveniently close to Saint Albans Bay Marina for post-water adventure bites.

Shore Acres Inn & Restaurant/Bravo Zulu, North Hero, VT
Nestled on Lake Champlain's shores, Shore Acres Inn And Restaurant provides fine dining with beautiful views of Mount Mansfield. For a more laid-back scene, Bravo Zulu Lakeside Bar offers relaxed evenings with lake views and lawn games, both accessible by boat, and promising an unforgettable dining adventure.

Experience the magic of Vermont's waterfront dining as you indulge in culinary delights amidst stunning natural landscapes. From historic inns to contemporary hotspots, each restaurant offers a unique taste of Vermont's charm and hospitality, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.