Northwest Vermont’s housing market saw notable movement in October 2025, reflecting a continued shift as inventory trends upward and prices begin to soften. The median sales price continues to rise. The median sales price in October settled at $539,900, up 8% from September and up 14.6% year over year. Despite the continued rise of prices, deals are happening. Closed sales rose to 205, marking both monthly and annual gains. Homes took longer to sell this month, with median days on market increasing to 17. Sellers received 98.9% of their list price, a slight month-over-month dip. This shows that negotiations are happening and sellers are not always selling for the full list price. Inventory remains a key story—active listings reached 389, up 15.1% compared to last October, giving buyers more options even as new listings declined to 193 from the previous month. Whether you're planning to buy or sell, these shifts offer important opportunities. Each market is unique, and we're here to help you navigate it with confidence. Contact us today for a personalized analysis of your local market.

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!

As we settle into November, it’s the perfect time to prepare your Vermont property for the cold months ahead. With a few simple maintenance steps, you can protect your investment, prevent costly repairs, and ensure your home stays warm, efficient, and comfortable all winter long.

Here are a few essential steps to take this month: 

1. Inspect and Service Your Heating System

Schedule a heating system check-up to ensure your furnace, boiler, or heat pump is running efficiently. Replace filters, test your thermostat, and consider upgrading to a smart thermostat for better control and energy savings.

2. Seal Drafts and Improve Insulation

Vermont winters are beautiful but brisk. Check for drafts around windows and doors, and use weather stripping, caulking, or added insulation to keep warm air in and cold air out. For older windows, thermal curtains or storm windows can be an effective solution.

3. Protect Your Pipes

Frozen pipes can lead to costly damage. Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas, and on frigid nights, let faucets drip and open cabinet doors to help warm air circulate. For outdoor water spigots, make sure to disconnect hoses, turn off the water valve, and drain excess water. 

4. Winterize Lakefront and Seasonal Properties

As the cold sets in, it’s time to bring in docks and store other recreational equipment. For seasonal homes, be sure to drain water lines, clean gutters, and securely close up the property for winter.

5. Test Detectors and Safety Devices

With heating systems and fireplaces in use, check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Replace batteries and test each unit to keep your home safe all winter.

6. Prepare Outdoor Spaces

Rake up remaining leaves, trim any overhanging tree branches that could be hazardous, and clean your gutters. Store patio furniture or cover it securely, and make sure your snow removal equipment works properly. Remember to put out reflective driveway markers that outline your driveway and protect landscaping from the plow.

For more expert home maintenance tips or personalized advice on getting your Vermont home market-ready this fall, reach out to a Coldwell Banker Islands Realty agent today. Let us help you keep your home in top shape, whether you’re staying for the season or preparing to sell!

This November, Coldwell Banker Islands Realty is collecting non-perishable food and personal items for The Champlain Islands Food Shelf to help families and individuals in need across Grand Isle County. 

Popular items to donate:

• Hearty soups, stews, chili, & tuna
• Canned & boxed meals
• Low-sugar cereals
• Peanut butter & jelly
• Condiments: mayo, ketchup, mustard
• Cake & cookie mixes
• Personal items: toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, toilet paper, dish soap, paper towels, feminine hygiene products, diapers

 

Drop-off location & hours:
📍Coldwell Banker Islands Realty
38 Community Lane, South Hero, VT (between the library & health center)
🕘 Monday – Friday, 9 AM – 5 PM

Thank you for helping make a difference this season!

 

About The Champlain Islands Food Shelf

The Champlain Islands Food Shelf is located in the basement of St. Joseph's Church at 185 US-2 in Grand Isle. Food distribution is on Wednesdays from 2 pm - 5:30 pm. Learn more about CIFS.

 

 

The Northwest Vermont housing market continued to shift in September 2025, with growing inventory and a decline in prices suggesting a more balanced environment for buyers and sellers. The median sales price for single-family homes in Grand Isle, Chittenden, and Franklin counties settled at $500,000, down 11.5% from August, while active inventory climbed to 420 homes, a 4% monthly increase. Homes are still selling quickly, with a median of 11 days on market, and sellers are receiving an average of 99.1% of their list price. With 232 new listings entering the market, buyers have more opportunities to find the right home, and sellers should stay informed as conditions evolve. Contact us today to learn how these market trends impact your home’s value or your next purchase in Northwest Vermont.