March’s Hidden Home is a private retreat set on 2.45 acres on the stunning shores of Lake Champlain. This bright and expansive home is designed for both relaxation and entertaining, with 288 feet of lakefront, a dock, and a mooring for year-round waterfront activities.  The property also features beautiful fruit trees, mature shrubs, and perennials. The main floor has an updated eat-in kitchen with granite countertops, custom cherry cabinets, high-end appliances, and doors to the back deck. This home is currently for sale. Learn more 

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Looking for something to do during the colder winter months? Northern Vermont offers plenty of ways to enjoy the season, from outdoor adventures to cozy indoor escapes. Whether you’re into extreme sports or peaceful winter walks, the season has something for something for everyone.

Ice Fishing on Lake Champlain

Ice fishing is a quintessential Vermont winter activity. Lake Champlain, a prime fishing destination, offers ample opportunities. Whether you’re a pro or just trying it out, it’s a great way to enjoy the winter outdoors. Just be sure to check the ice conditions for safety.

Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing

Explore Vermont’s winter landscape on snowshoes or cross-country skis. From scenic trails like the Red Rocks Park with its lake and mountain views to groomed paths at Trapp Family Lodge and Catamount Outdoor Family Center, there are endless ways to enjoy the season. 

Outdoor Ice Skating and Pond Hockey

When conditions are just right, Vermont’s frozen lakes and ponds become the perfect setting for ice skating and pond hockey. North Hero’s City Bay offers a scenic rink on Lake Champlain, while the outdoor rink at the base of Spruce Peak is another local favorite. 

Hitting the Slopes at Vermont’s Ski Resorts

Embrace winter with a trip to top-notch ski resorts, all just a stone's throw away from Burlington, Vermont. Whether you're a seasoned pro seeking challenging terrains or you're looking for a more family-friendly mountain, Vermont’s ski resorts offer a variety of terrain for all levels.   

Snowmobiling Across the Countryside

Snowmobiling is an exciting way to explore Vermont’s winter landscape. The VAST trails connect picturesque towns and remote forests, offering miles of adventure. Trails around the Champlain Islands and Northeast Kingdom provide scenic routes for snowmobilers, but always check conditions before hitting the trail.

Cozying Up with a Winter Bonfire

Sometimes, the best winter activity is simply staying warm by the fire. Gather with friends for a cozy bonfire in your backyard or visit a local spot like Idletyme Brewing in Stowe, where the outdoor patio features inviting firepits—perfect for an après-ski hangout.

Sledding on Ski Slopes and Rolling Hills

Sledding is a fun, family-friendly winter activity best enjoyed on Vermont’s rolling country hills or ski slopes. Ski resorts like Smugglers’ Notch and local spots like Sharp Park offer epic snow tubing for thrill-seekers. Meanwhile, the Champlain Valley is home to many gentle hills, perfect for a relaxed afternoon of classic sledding fun.

Snowkiting on the Ice

For those seeking an adrenaline rush, snowkiting and kitewinging are unique winter sports that let you glide across the ice using a wing or kite. The Sandbar Causeway is a prime spot for these wind-powered adventures, offering space for jumps and tricks when the conditions are right.

 

Winter in Northern Vermont is full of adventure, whether you’re ice fishing, skiing, or simply enjoying a sunset by the fire. With so much to do, it’s easy to embrace the season and make the most of the snowy months.

If you're preparing to sell your Vermont home, you can do small upgrades to your house without breaking the bank. Instead of tackling major renovations, focus on simple, cost-effective improvements that enhance the home's appeal and value to potential buyers. Here are five of the best budget-friendly projects to help your home sell faster: 

1. Refresh Walls with Neutral Paint
A fresh coat of paint instantly makes a home look cleaner and more modern. Stick to light neutrals like white, grey, or soft beige to create a bright, inviting space that appeals to buyers and allows them to envision themselves in the home. 

2. Upgrade Kitchen & Bathroom Hardware
Swapping out dated cabinet handles, drawer pulls, and faucets is a budget-friendly way to give kitchens and bathrooms a more polished look. Stores like Amazon, Wayfair, and Lowe’s, offer stylish options in matte black, brushed nickel, or brass at affordable prices. 

3. Enhance Curb Appeal
First impressions matter! Consider curb appeal when thinking about improving your home. Simple updates like painting the front door, updating an outdoor light, adding fresh mulch, trimming bushes, and planting seasonal flowers can make a big difference in attracting buyers.

4. Replace Light Fixtures & Switch Plates
Outdated lighting can make a home feel stuck in the past. Install modern, budget-friendly fixtures in key areas like the kitchen, living, and dining room. Swapping old yellowed switch plates for crisp white ones also helps freshen up spaces.

5. Deep Clean & Declutter
One of the most cost-effective ways to increase buyer interest is to declutter and deep clean. Removing excess furniture, clearing off counters, and organizing closets can make the home feel bigger and more inviting. Next, do a deep clean of the kitchen, bathroom, floors and windows. Decluttering and deep cleaning helps homebuyers see the true potential of the home.

You don’t need a major renovation to boost your home’s value before selling. By focusing on small, impactful improvements like fresh paint, updated hardware, and curb appeal, you can create a home that stands out to buyers—without overspending. These simple upgrades can make all the difference in helping you sell quickly and at the best possible price. 

Need help deciding what projects have the best return on your investment? Get a professional opinion from one of our agents.
 

The return of maple sugaring season is approaching in Vermont, and you're invited to join the festivities! The Vermont Maple Sugar Makers' Association hosts the annual Maple Open House Weekend on March 22nd and 23rd. Experience the magic of this cherished tradition as local sugarmakers across the state open their doors for maple education, guided tours, and sweet samples. Don't miss the chance to learn about the history and art of maple sugaring. Below, you'll find some must-visit sugarhouses in Northern Vermont.

1. Palmer’s Sugarhouse | Shelburne, VT
Palmer’s Sugarhouse welcomes the community on Saturday and Sunday from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Enjoy sugar on snow, live music, horse rides, and other maple-boiling activities. Conveniently located less than 20 minutes from Burlington, this sugarhouse is a must-visit.

Open House Information

2. Sugartree Maple Farm | Williston, VT
Sugartree Maple Farm will be open from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM on both Saturday and Sunday of Open House Weekend. Visitors can tour the sugarhouse, enjoy maple hot dogs, listen to live music, and even try maple-infused adult beverages from BEVO Catering. Breakfast will also be available.

Open House Information

3. Mountainview Mapleworks at the Giroux Family Farm | Richmond, VT
Nestled in the foothills of the mountains, this family-run sugarhouse offers trails to see the running sap, delicious maple samples, and maple coffee and doughnuts. There is ample parking, and Vermont maple syrup will be available for purchase. Open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Open House Information

4. Palmer Lane Maple | Jericho, VT
Palmer Lane Maple will have every maple treat you can imagine! Indulge in maple cream donuts, maple hot dogs, and maple creemees. They will also serve cold maple coffee from Brew House Coffee Company and waffle bite sundaes. Open both days from 10:00 AM to 3:30 PM.

Open House Information

5. Browns River Maple | Essex Junction, VT
Visit this family-owned sugarhouse from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM for tours, syrup samples, and a tapping demonstration. Meet local motocross racer Kenyon Pelkey for an autograph session, and shop for maple products.

Open House Information

6. Shelburne Farms | Shelburne, VT

Experience the sugaring process at Shelburne Farms! Tour the sugarhouse, tap a maple tree, and enjoy maple syrup samples. Explore the sugarbush, join a scavenger hunt, and try classic sugar on snow. This free event takes place Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

Open House Information

Whether you're indulging in sweet samples or embarking on guided tours, you won’t regret immersing yourself in the magic of Vermont’s maple legacy. Be sure to visit these open houses to celebrate this cherished tradition during sugaring season. Check out the  2025 maple map  for a full guide to all Vermont sugarhouses participating in the 2025 Maple Open House Weekend!

Please join us in celebrating the outstanding achievements of Franz Rosenberger and Evan Potvin of Coldwell Banker Islands Realty! These top-performing agents have earned prestigious recognition among the highest-ranked sales professionals in the global Coldwell Banker network. Their dedication, market expertise and commitment to exceptional client service continue to set a gold standard in Vermont real estate.

Franz Rosenberger has been honored with the International President’s Elite Award, placing him among the top 2% of Coldwell Banker sales associates worldwide.

Evan Potvin has earned the International Diamond Society, ranking among the top 8% of sales associates globally. 

At Coldwell Banker Islands Realty, we are incredibly fortunate to have Franz and Evan’s leadership, expertise, and mentorship guiding our team. Their commitment to excellence not only elevates our brokerage but also inspires those around them to strive for the very best. Their passion for real estate, innovative strategies, and dedication to client success make them invaluable members of our team and community.

Congratulations to both on this well-deserved recognition! We look forward to seeing your continued success in 2025.