What not to do when searching for your Vermont home this season

With longer days and motivated sellers, the summertime is an exciting time to look for your next home in Vermont. Before diving into showings and open houses, it’s important to be aware of common mistakes that can throw off your search and lead to buyer’s remorse. Here are five pitfalls to avoid for a smoother, smarter house-hunting experience.

1. Skipping the Pre-Approval Step

Before browsing listings or scheduling showings, talk to a lender and get pre-approved for a mortgage. Knowing your budget upfront not only helps you narrow your search but also shows sellers you’re a serious buyer, giving you a competitive edge when you’re ready to make an offer.

2. Not Defining Your Priorities

It’s easy to get swept away by charming porches or lake views, but without a clear list of must-haves and deal-breakers, you risk wasting time or settling for the wrong fit. Outline what matters most, whether it’s the location or the square footage, and stick to it.

3. Getting Caught Up in the Summer Frenzy

With homes moving quickly, summer buyers can feel pressure to act fast. While urgency is often needed, don’t let market hype push you into a rushed decision. Stay grounded, take time to evaluate each property, and lean on a local REALTOR® for guidance.

4. Thinking Only About Summer

A house might feel perfect for July barbecues, but how will it hold up in January? Consider the year-round functionality of the home, winter access, heating systems, storage, and long-term maintenance. Thinking ahead will save you from future surprises.

5. Going It Alone

The Vermont housing market can be competitive and nuanced. Partnering with a local real estate agent, especially a buyer’s representative, ensures you have someone in your corner. From scheduling showings to negotiating offers, a trusted professional will help you navigate every step with confidence.

Avoiding these common mistakes will help you make informed decisions and find a Vermont home that truly fits your lifestyle this summer and beyond. Ready to begin your home search? Schedule a buyer consultation with one of our local real estate agents or start browsing properties today.

As of May 2025, the Northwest Vermont real estate market shows a steady rise in home values with a year-to-date median sales price of $515,000—up 4.1 percent compared to the same period in 2024. Homes continue to sell quickly, maintaining a median of just 7 days on the market. While the number of closed sales dipped slightly by 3.3 percent, sellers are still receiving nearly full asking price, with an average of 99.8 percent of the list price. The cost per square foot rose 5.4 percent to $271, reflecting increasing property values in the region. New listings, however, have declined sharply by 42.8 percent, which may contribute to lower inventory and increased competition for buyers. If you're curious about what these trends mean for your neighborhood or plans, contact us for a personalized market analysis.

The Northwest Vermont housing market remained strong in April 2025, with 114 single-family homes sold across Grand Isle, Chittenden, and Franklin counties—a nearly 30% increase from last year. The median sales price rose modestly to $516,000, while new listings surged by over 40%, giving buyers more options than we've seen in months. Inventory climbed by 60% year-over-year, yet homes are still moving quickly, with a median of just 7 days on the market. If you're curious how these trends affect your home value or buying power, contact us today for a personalized market update.

This beautifully renovated 4-bed, 4-bath farmhouse sits on nearly 3 acres with gardens, woodlands, and a skating pond—complete with multiple outdoor living spaces, a pool, and owned solar. Inside, you'll find cherry floors, vintage details, two fireplaces, and a luxurious first-floor primary suite.

This home is currently for sale. Learn more here

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Are you considering putting your property on the market? Spring is one of the best times of year to sell a home in Vermont—especially if your property offers lake views, outdoor space, or scenic surroundings. As the snow melts and the Green Mountains come alive with color, the local real estate market begins to bloom, too. Here’s why spring is the ideal season to list your Vermont home:

1. Higher Demand from Eager Buyers
With limited inventory over the winter, many buyers have been waiting for new listings to hit the market. As spring arrives, buyer activity in Vermont picks up, and warmer weather makes the moving process easier, driving more serious interest and faster decisions. Lakefront properties, in particular, are highly sought after as summer approaches.

2. Homes Show Beautifully in Spring
Vermont’s natural beauty shines in spring, with budding trees, flowering gardens, and green lawns creating a picturesque setting for showings. If your home is near Lake Champlain, spring is the perfect time to highlight the outdoor living spaces, gardens, and water access that make lakefront properties so desirable. Buyers will be drawn to the prospect of enjoying the lake in the warmer months, from boating to relaxing by the water.

3. Longer Days = More Showings
With extended daylight, buyers have more opportunities to visit homes after work or on weekends. This added flexibility increases the number of potential showings and makes your listing more accessible, especially for those traveling from out of state.

4. Great Timing for Families
For both buyers and sellers with families, spring is an ideal time to make a move. Buyers with school-aged children often prefer to purchase in the spring so they can close and settle in before the next school year begins. Similarly, sellers with families can take advantage of this timing to make a smooth transition without disrupting their children’s routines. It’s a great opportunity for families on both sides of the transaction.

5. Mild Weather Makes House Hunting Enjoyable
Vermont’s spring weather—mild temperatures, blue skies, and fresh air—makes it a pleasure to explore new neighborhoods and properties. Buyers are more likely to visit multiple homes in a day and spend time exploring the local area, especially if it’s along the lake or in a scenic small town.

Whether you're selling a year-round home or a seasonal cottage on the lake, spring is a powerful season to attract motivated buyers. With increased interest, beautiful surroundings, and optimal timing, now is the perfect moment to take the next step.

Reach out today to learn how we can help you prepare, price, and market your home for a successful spring sale.