Lake champlain real estate

2025: A Year of Growth, Gratitude, and Community

2025 Northwest Vermont real estate year in review highlighting market trends, community impact, and Coldwell Banker Islands Realty

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. In 2025, they sold 81% of properties in Grand Isle County, naming them the top sales agents in Grand Isle County. 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.

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Why You Should Hire Coldwell Banker Islands Realty to Sell Your Lakefront Property

If you’re selling a Vermont lakefront property on Lake Champlain, choosing the right real estate company matters more than ever. Lakefront homes aren’t just houses—they’re lifestyles, investments, and can be highly nuanced properties. That’s why Coldwell Banker Islands Realty (CBIR) is the best fit for lakefront sellers in Grand Isle County, Vermont.

1. Over 27 Years of Lakefront Experience

Coldwell Banker Islands has been helping folks buy and sell lakefront properties since 1996, with more than 29 years of hands-on experience navigating shoreline regulations, seasonal demand, and buyer expectations. Their long-standing presence means they understand how lakefront values fluctuate and how to price and time a sale strategically.

2. The Top Agency in Grand Isle County

Grand Isle County has more shoreline than any other county in Vermont, and CBIR is the top real estate agency serving this unique market. Their focus on the Islands and Lake Champlain gives sellers a major advantage when it comes to visibility, buyer reach, and accurate valuation.

3. True Lake Champlain Specialists

Known as The Lakeshore Experts, CBIR Realtors understand the complexities of lakefront ownership — from shoreland protection rules and permitting to docks, moorings, erosion control, and water access. This niche expertise ensures your property is marketed accurately and confidently to qualified buyers.

4. Firsthand Lake Living Experience

Many CBIR agents live on or near Lake Champlain and grew up boating, fishing, swimming, and enjoying the lake lifestyle. That firsthand experience allows them to tell your property’s story authentically, something buyers value deeply when purchasing waterfront real estate.

5. Strategic Pricing & High-End Marketing

Selling lakefront property requires more than a sign in the yard. CBIR provides personalized preparation advice, a dynamic pricing strategy, and top-tier marketing using professional photography, video, digital advertising, and the Coldwell Banker Global network to present your home in its best possible light.

Bottom line: If you’re selling a lakefront home in Grand Isle County or on Lake Champlain, Coldwell Banker Islands Realty brings unmatched experience, local knowledge, and lakefront specialization, helping you protect your investment and maximize your sale.

Hidden Home: Charming Home in North Hero, Vermont

Welcome to the Vermont Birch House! This charming Island home welcomes you with a covered porch running the length of the house, leading to a west-facing sun deck perfect for enjoying Vermont's stunning sunsets. Nestled on a super private 4-acre lot surrounded by birches and cedars, this property offers 30 feet of deeded lake access. 


This house is currently under contract and not for sale. 

Subscribe to our Monthly newsletter to see more Hidden Vermont Homes! 

Hidden Home: Year-Round Champlain Island Home

 

March’s move-in ready home is hidden in plain sight! From the moment you pull up the driveway, you'll be wowed by the privacy and peaceful setting of this four-bed, two-bath home. The residence is located on 5.24 beautiful acres in a convenient Grand Isle location with views and pristine lake frontage. This home is currently for sale.

Island Insights: February Fun in the Champlain Islands

February Activities in the Lake Champlain Islands of Vermont

From winter festivals to local live music events, February 2023 is packed with activities to be enjoyed by all! Keep reading to learn about the local events coming up in Vermont's Lake Champlain Island towns

Winter Carnival @ Kraemer and Kin 

The local Champlain Islands Brewery, Kraemer and Kin, turns three years old! They will have their first annual winter carnival to celebrate the anniversary on February 11th and 12th at the Alburgh Golf Links. During the day, many outdoor activities will be happening, such as pick-up hockey, sledding, and snowshoe tours. 

Learn more

Friday Night Wine Down @ Snow Farm Vineyard 

Wine Down Fridays at Snow Farm is a can’t miss activity this winter. This winter concert series features free live music inside Snow Farm Vineyard's tasting room from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm. Bittersweet Bakery will be serving dinner at 5:30 pm. There is also a Pebble Art Workshop on February 12th from 2 pm to 4 pm. Check out the entire February event lineup below. 

See Snow Farm Calendar 

Great Ice Winter Festival

The return of Great Ice is back the weekend of February 17th at City Bay in North Hero, Vermont. There is a fantastic lineup of events happening throughout the weekend for all to enjoy. The festival includes fireworks, a Christmas tree bonfire, local vendors, and much more! The Champlain Islands Business Expo will also be held at the North Hero Community Hall on Saturday, Feb. 18, from 10:30 am. to 3 pm. Coldwell Banker Islands Realty will be there; make sure to stop by and say hello! Please note some activities are weather dependent, follow their Facebook page for updates.

Learn more

Stay in the loop! Subscribe to our newsletter, Island Insights, for real estate tips and tricks, beautiful hidden homes, and community updates. 

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