As we reflect on 2024, we are filled with gratitude for the opportunity to help so many people achieve their real estate goals in Northwest Vermont. This year, we proudly represented a range of stunning properties and guided buyers and sellers through each step of their journey. We are beyond thankful for the trust our clients and community have placed in all of us here at Coldwell Banker Islands Realty. Our incredible agents would not have reached these accomplishments without their support. We are grateful and look forward to another year of guiding people home!

Coldwell Banker Islands Realty proudly guided 86 clients through their real estate journeys. Whether it was helping first-time buyers find their footing, retirees discovering their next chapter, growing families securing more room to thrive, or dreamers bringing their visions to life, our team was there every step of the way. Together, our Realtors achieved over $45 million in sales, representing homes and properties across five Vermont counties.

2024 was a year of growth and remarkable achievements at our brokerage. Franz Rosenberger received the prestigious International President’s Elite Award, ranking among the top 2% of agents in the Coldwell Banker network worldwide. Evan Potvin was recognized with the International President’s Circle Award, given to agents who rank in the top 4% globally. We are proud to have Franz and Evan as leaders in our brokerage and congratulate them on these outstanding accomplishments. 

We’re proud to recognize Paul Habersang and his professional development as he earned his Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR®) designation, a valuable achievement that strengthens his ability to serve buyers at the highest level. Additionally, we were delighted to have welcomed Madeline Spaulding as a licensed sales associate. Madeline’s energy, drive, and passion for real estate have already made her an incredible asset to our brokerage.

The real estate industry experienced many changes in 2024. At Coldwell Banker Islands Realty, staying informed about state and national real estate policies and market trends remains a top priority. Our team actively enhanced their expertise by attending training sessions and local Realtor board meetings to serve our clients and communities better. We also strengthened industry connections by participating in the Vermont Association of Realtors conference and the Northwest Vermont Realtor Association’s annual meeting.

Giving back continued to be at the heart of everything we did this year. We proudly raised $3,100 through Commissions For Community, which will be donated to various local charities. We also sponsored the Great Ice Xmas Tree Bonfire, participated in Green Up Day, supported the Northwest Vermont Realtors Association’s Home Item Drive, and served as a drop-off location for Toys for Kids. To end the year, we hosted our annual Holiday Hoopla event, where our agents and community came together for a festive morning.

This year, we loved connecting with the community in meaningful ways. From sponsoring local programs and events to sharing our knowledge and participating in the Champlain Islands Farmers’ Market and Snow Farm Vineyard Summer Concert Series, we embraced every opportunity to get involved. We also hosted our first seminar at the Worthen Library, where a Realtor, interior designer, and mortgage broker shared their expert tips on preparing homes for sale.

Our reach extended far beyond in-person events, as we connected with millions of people through our digital platforms. This year, we saw tremendous growth online, reaching an incredible 7.3 million people across our various channels. Our website had an impressive 80K visitors, offering homebuyers and sellers easy access to the latest property listings and real estate insights. 

Our Instagram became a go-to online resource as Northern Vermont’s top-followed real estate company, through sharing new listings, market information, and the local lifestyle. We grew to over 11.7K followers and had over 10 million views this year, with multiple viral moments driving increased engagement. On YouTube, our channel experienced significant growth, with 1.1 million impressions and 119K video views. This online growth gives sellers an advantage by allowing them to reach a captivated audience interested in Vermont real estate. Our social media also equips buyers with local insights and the knowledge to be informed and confident in the local market.

We couldn’t have achieved these milestones without the continued support of our community, partners, and dedicated team. Your trust has made all of this possible, and we look forward to another year of success, connection, and giving back. We wish you a joyful holiday season, good health, and a prosperous New Year.

Warmly,

Coldwell Banker Islands Realty

This year, our social media content at Coldwell Banker Islands Realty spotlighted Vermont's lifestyle, real estate, and natural beauty like never before. It was a year of milestone moments for our Instagram channel! From showcasing local hotspots to breathtaking lakefront home tours, our most-watched videos captured the essence of what makes Northwest Vermont so special. Take a look at the highlights that had everyone talking:

1. Island Line Trail – 9.6 Million Views
We took to Instagram to spotlight the iconic Island Line Trail, a popular biking destination in the area—and it exploded in popularity! This video became one of our top performers with 9.6 million views, over 176K likes, and 148K shares. It's a perfect example of the local content we love to share, educating both residents and visitors about Vermont's vibrant lifestyle.

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Coldwell Banker Islands Realty (@cbislandsrealty)

2. Mini Home Tour: Cottage-Style Home – 403K Views

This highlight reel featured one of our fall listings, a cottage-style home in North Hero, Vermont. This listing demonstrated the power of our reach, amassing over 403K views, 12K likes, and 9.3K shares. Our wide-reaching online presence connects sellers with potential homebuyers and ensures unique properties like this receive the attention they deserve. The result? This property saw a flurry of showings and went under contract in just 24 days.
 

 

 

 

 

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3. For Sale: Modern Lakefront Home in Vermont – 355K Views
This video beautifully showcases the modern luxury of this custom-designed lakefront residence in North Hero, Vermont. With breathtaking views and a sophisticated design, this home truly stands out—and our video captured every stunning detail. This short video tour garnered over 355K views, 7.9K likes, and 5K shares—a clear demonstration of the power of creative and engaging video content to showcase properties. 
 

 

 

 

 

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4. This is Your Sign to Move to Vermont – 187K Views
This fun and engaging video, featuring a trending voiceover, invited viewers to imagine starting fresh in Vermont by highlighting the state's vibrant lifestyle, opportunities, and real estate possibilities. The video resonated with many, earning 187K views, 4.3K likes, and 3.8K shares. By blending captivating content with inspirational messaging, we aim to not only spotlight our listings but also entice potential buyers to discover all that Vermont has to offer.
 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Coldwell Banker Islands Realty (@cbislandsrealty)

5. For Sale: Idyllic 1870 Vermont Farmhouse – 302K Views
This charming 1870 Vermont farmhouse home tour video received over 302K views, 6K likes, and 4.6K shares, capturing the unique allure of this farmhouse and the unmatched lifestyle it offers. This level of exposure highlights the power of our digital presence in connecting buyers to exceptional properties like this one.
 

 

 

 

 

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This past year, our content brought Vermont's lifestyle, real estate, and natural beauty to the forefront. From timeless farmhouses and luxury lakefront retreats to local guides and community highlights, our videos captivated audiences far and wide. With millions of views and thousands of likes and shares, our digital presence continues to elevate Vermont living in a way that inspires exploration and connection.
Our commitment to top-tier marketing sets us apart, offering sellers unparalleled exposure that other brokerages simply can’t match. For buyers, our local insights and knowledge of the Vermont real estate market ensure a smooth, stress-free transition into their new home. As we move forward, we remain dedicated to showcasing the charm, elegance, and unique appeal of life in Vermont—bringing its story to life for residents, buyers, and dreamers alike. 
Make sure to follow along for another great year of content @cbislandsrealty !

Make sure to follow along for another great year of hot Vermont real estate content! 

As the leaves fall and Vermont prepares for winter, the Northwest Vermont real estate market is undergoing changes that buyers and sellers alike should note. Here’s a breakdown of the latest trends in single-family home sales for October 2024 and what they mean for you. Statistics are for single-family home sales in Grand Isle, Franklin, and Chittenden County. 

Median Sales Price

The median sales price for single-family homes in Northwest Vermont dropped to $471,000, marking a 5.5% decrease from September and a slight 0.8% dip from October 2023. This recent decline suggests home sellers need to price their homes competitively to attract interest in a market where prospective homebuyers may be more discerning. However, the year-over-year stability in prices reflects a market that continues to hold value, making it essential for buyers to act decisively if they find a home that fits their needs. For buyers, this slight decrease in price could offer an opportunity to secure a more favorable deal, especially as the market begins to shift.

Closed Sales

Closed sales rose modestly to 149, a 4.9% increase from September, though they remain 1.3% below October 2023 levels. For home sellers, this rebound in sales activity indicates that there are still active buyers in the market, but capturing their attention may require thoughtful marketing and competitive pricing. House hunters can take advantage of the slight cooling in year-over-year sales, which reduces the likelihood of bidding wars and increases opportunities for negotiation.

Median Days on Market

Homes spent an average of 11 days on the market, up 10% from September and 22.2% longer than last October. Home sellers should view this slight increase as a signal to prepare their homes meticulously before listing, as well-presented homes are still selling relatively quickly despite the slight slowdown. For homebuyers, this extended timeframe offers breathing room, allowing for a more deliberate search process. However, in-demand properties may still move quickly, so staying prepared is key.

List Price Received

Home sellers received an average of 100.3% of their asking price, a small 0.3% increase from September but slightly below the levels seen in October 2023. For sellers, this underscores the importance of setting a realistic asking price. Homes that align with market expectations are more likely to sell quickly and at—or even slightly above—their list price. For homebuyers, while paying close to the asking price remains common, the slight shift in the market may open opportunities for negotiation, particularly on homes that have been on the market longer.

New Listings

New listings totaled 179, a 3.8% decrease from September, but a 16.2% increase compared to October 2023. People selling a home can expect a more competitive environment than last year, with increased year-over-year supply giving homebuyers more options. To stand out, sellers should focus on staging and marketing their homes effectively. Buyers, on the other hand, will appreciate the broader selection of homes, which provides a better chance of finding a property that fits their preferences and budget.

Active Inventory

Active inventory decreased slightly to 337 homes, down 5.9% from September, but it remains 43.4% higher than October 2023. For home sellers, this elevated inventory compared to last year means that homebuyers have more choices, making it essential to price strategically and present your home in its best light. Buyers benefit from this increased inventory, as it reduces competition and creates more opportunities to find a home that meets their needs.

Months Supply of Inventory

The months supply of inventory fell to 2.3 months, a 10.3% decrease from September, but still 45.3% higher than October 2023. While this level of supply keeps the market in sellers’ favor, the gradual trend toward balance signals a shift in dynamics. Sellers should be prepared for potentially longer selling times and more negotiations, while buyers can feel more confident navigating a market that increasingly offers them more options and leverage.

 

Why a Local Market Analysis Matters

While these regional statistics provide a helpful overview, the real estate market can vary significantly by town or area. A local market analysis tailored to your desired area offers valuable insights, such as pricing trends and competition levels, to help you make the best decisions.

Partner with a Local Real Estate Expert

Navigating Vermont’s unique real estate market requires local expertise. Whether you’re buying or selling, working with a knowledgeable Realtor ensures you’re prepared for the nuances of this evolving market. From understanding trends to providing personalized guidance, a local expert can help you achieve your real estate goals with confidence.

Get Started Today

Are you curious about your home’s value or the opportunities in Northwest Vermont’s real estate market? Contact us for a personalized market analysis and let us guide you through the next steps. With our local knowledge and professional expertise, we’ll help you succeed in Vermont’s ever-changing real estate landscape.

As the weather cools and we spend more time indoors, creating a comfortable and inviting home becomes essential. Simple strategic changes can revamp your home’s look and feel, making it aesthetically pleasing and enhancing functionality. If you’re thinking about selling, whether in the next year or ten, making thoughtful updates to your home will give it that “wow” factor home buyers are looking for. Here are five impactful improvements that can transform your home into an irresistible option for buyers.

1. Fresh, Neutral Paint
A fresh coat of paint can instantly breathe new life into your home. Opt for neutral tones like soft grays, warm beiges, or off-whites. These shades create a clean, modern aesthetic that appeals to a broad range of buyers. Neutral colors help spaces feel open and inviting, allowing potential buyers to envision their own style and belongings in the space.

2. Updated Lighting Fixtures
Lighting is an often overlooked element that can dramatically alter a room's ambiance. Replacing outdated fixtures with contemporary, energy-efficient options gives your home a modern edge. Updating light fixtures can highlight the main features of your home while adding functional beauty to every room. 

3. Smart Home Upgrades
As technology becomes increasingly integrated into our daily lives, smart home features are becoming more desirable to homebuyers. Installing a smart thermostat, security system, or energy-efficient lighting that can be controlled via smartphone apps can significantly enhance the modern appeal of your home. These upgrades provide convenience, energy savings, and the allure of a more connected living space, making them especially appealing to tech-savvy buyers.

4. Updated Bathrooms with Spa-Like Touches
Bathrooms can be deal-makers (or breakers) for homebuyers. Small updates, such as installing modern fixtures like rain showerheads, and waterfall faucets can create a a more elevated atmosphere. Upgrading a vanity and adding high-quality tile or natural stone elements can further elevate the look. A fresh, clean bathroom signals that the home is well-maintained, making a significant impact on home shoppers.

5. Refresh Your Space
Revisiting your home’s decor can make a big impact without the need for major purchases. Start by decluttering and depersonalizing—remove family photos, excess décor, and any items that might distract buyers. This creates an inviting space that buyers can easily envision as their own. Rearranging furniture to optimize flow and open up key rooms can make your home feel more spacious and welcoming. Simple touches like placing fresh flowers in the entryway or adding crisp linens in the bedroom can brighten the atmosphere. Don’t forget to do a thorough deep clean to remove odors and ensure your home shines, creating a warm, welcoming environment that makes buyers feel at home.

By implementing these interior improvements, you can create an appealing environment that not only attracts buyers but also enhances your home’s overall value, setting the stage for a successful sale.  Selling a home is a complicated process, but our experienced Realtors are here to help you navigate the many factors involved in preparing your home for sale with confidence. Learn more about our seller services today. 

As we transition into the fall season, the real estate market in Northwest Vermont is showing signs of change. Whether you’re considering buying or selling, understanding these current trends will help you make informed decisions. Let's dive into the latest data for single-family home sales in Northwest Vermont and discuss how it impacts buyers and sellers.

Data is for single-family home sales in Grand Isle, Chittenden, and Franklin County. 

Median Sales Price

The median sales price for single-family homes in Northwest Vermont dropped by 3.7% from August to $498,500 in September. However, it’s still up by 3.9% compared to September 2023, reflecting a gradual upward trend in prices over the past year. 

For someone selling their home, this slight month-over-month dip suggests that pricing homes competitively is crucial to attracting potential homebuyers in a shifting market. The increase from last year shows home values are still strong, but today’s buyers may expect more negotiation on price.

The recent decrease in the median sales price may present an opportunity for homebuyers to find a good deal on a home. However, with prices up from last year, this is still a valuable market, so they should act decisively when the right property arises.

Closed Sales

Closed sales dropped to 142, a significant 23.7% decrease from August and a 16% decrease from September of last year. This decline in closed sales indicates a slower pace in transactions, which could mean it might take a little longer for home sellers to find a buyer. Being flexible on price and terms might be necessary as the market adjusts to lower transaction volumes. 

Fewer closed sales may give current buyers more room to negotiate and avoid bidding wars. This shift could help them approach the market with a bit more confidence, knowing that the pace is slowing down.

Median Days on Market

The median days on market remains steady at 10 days, slightly down from the previous month and last September. This is a positive signal to home sellers showing that well-priced homes are still moving quickly. A home seller needs to present their home in the best possible light to stay competitive in a slightly cooler market.

While homes are selling in about 10 days on average, having a bit more time on the market means homebuyers might not feel as much pressure to make an immediate decision. However, attractive homes in sought-after areas can still sell fast, so they should be prepared to act when the right property comes on the market.

List Price Received

Home sellers are receiving 100% of their list price on average, down from August’s 101% but still indicating that properties are generally selling at the asking price. For home sellers, receiving the full list price is a good indicator of a balanced market, though the slight decline suggests some room for negotiation. Setting a fair, market-aligned price will keep today’s buyers engaged without the need for excessive price reductions.

For homebuyers, this signals that while competitive, the market is starting to offer more flexibility. They may have the opportunity to negotiate but should still expect to pay close to the list price on most homes.

New Listings

The number of new listings in September is down by 11% from August, with 187 homes hitting the market. However, this is a 15.4% increase from September 2023, indicating a slight uptick in year-over-year supply. This increase in year-over-year listings means there’s more competition. For home sellers, standing out with staging and competitive pricing is key to attracting interest. More new listings compared to last year provide homebuyers with more choices, which can help them find the right property at the right price. This slight increase in supply may reduce the intensity of competition.

Active Inventory

With active inventory rising to 355 homes, up 4.4% from last month and a substantial 43.1% increase from last year, homebuyers now have a broader selection of homes.

For home sellers, this expanded inventory means buyers have more options, so expect to compete for attention. Well-presented homes that are priced competitively will likely draw more interest.

The increase in active inventory is a favorable trend for homebuyers. With more options available, they have the chance to find a home that meets their needs and fits within their budget.

Months Supply of Inventory

The months supply of inventory has risen to 2.5 months, up 36.8% from August and a substantial 70.4% increase compared to last September. While still below six months is generally considered balanced, this increase shows a trend toward a more balanced market. This higher inventory means that while it’s still a seller’s market, the advantage is shifting. Home sellers should be prepared for longer selling times and potentially more negotiations on price. A higher months supply indicates homebuyers have more choice and leverage than in a tighter market. This gradual shift can reduce the pressure of intense competition and give them more time to explore options.

Why a Local Market Analysis is Key

Each county and town in Northwest Vermont may have unique trends and variables that don’t show in broader market data. A personalized market analysis can offer valuable insights into what’s happening in your specific area, whether you’re looking to buy or sell. This tailored information will provide you with pricing trends, competition levels, and what to expect when entering the market.

Work with a Local Real Estate Expert

The Vermont real estate market is unique, and having a local real estate expert by your side can make a world of difference. An experienced agent can guide you through the buying or selling process, provide insight into local trends, and help you make informed decisions in evolving markets.

Get Started Today

Are you ready to learn more about the real estate opportunities in Northwest Vermont? Contact us for a customized market analysis and discover how we can help you achieve your real estate goals. Partnering with a local Realtor can provide the guidance and support you need to succeed in Vermont’s unique real estate landscape.