A candid look at the market with honesty, humor, and a hopeful eye on what's ahead.
Let’s be honest. Vermont real estate isn’t always smooth sailing. Whether you’re trying to buy your first home, sell a family property, or keep up with the changing market, the process can feel like a rollercoaster. One moment you're gazing at a hillside farmhouse, the next you're wondering if a composting toilet works in the winter. But that’s part of the charm here. Vermont is beautiful, unpredictable, and full of personality—just like its housing market.
As someone who works closely with clients across this state, here’s a grounded look at what’s working, what’s not, and why there’s still reason to feel optimistic about where we’re headed.
The Good: Why People Still Love Vermont
Space, Scenery, and Sanity
There’s a reason people come here to breathe. Vermont offers wide open spaces, clean air, and the kind of quiet that’s hard to find anywhere else. Mountains, lakes, woods, and winding roads make everyday life feel a little more grounded.
Community That Cares
Vermont towns are known for showing up for one another. Whether it’s at a local potluck, town hall meeting, or after a heavy rain or snowfall, people help their neighbors. This sense of connection makes all the difference when deciding where to call home.
Character in Every Corner
If you’re looking for cookie-cutter housing, Vermont might not be your place. Homes here often come with quirks, history, and handcrafted details you won’t find anywhere else. Sure, they might need a fresh coat of paint and maybe an exorcist, but there’s history in those walls.
The Bad: No Sugarcoating It
Inventory Is Low, Competition Is High
It’s no secret that available homes are limited, especially in popular areas. Well-priced properties are often snapped up quickly, sometimes with multiple offers and little room to negotiate. For buyers, it can be discouraging.
Affordability Is a Real Concern
Prices have climbed. What used to be a $250,000 home is now well over $350,000 in many areas, and starter homes are getting harder to find. This hits first-time buyers and working families the hardest.
Rural Reality
With Vermont’s charm also comes infrastructure quirks. Wells, septic systems, long dirt driveways, and areas with little to no cell service are all common. These aren’t deal breakers, but they do require understanding and preparation.
The Vermont Factor: Humor in the Madness
Real estate here isn’t just about square footage and school districts. It’s also about navigating the truly unique.
- A “seasonal camp” might mean no running water and heating that depends on a wood stove and a prayer.
- “Rustic” can mean anything from charmingly rough to “bring a contractor.”
- And yes, that barn out back might be older than the Constitution.
But somehow, it all works. And more often than not, it makes for great stories.
The Outlook: There’s Still a Lot to Look Forward To
Creative Solutions Are Emerging
From energy-efficient builds to accessory dwelling units and better town planning, Vermont communities are beginning to address the housing crunch in smarter ways. Small changes add up over time, and we’re starting to see the benefits.
People Still Want to Be Here
This state continues to draw people who value quality of life, nature, and a strong community. And for those already here, there's a deep-rooted desire to stay and invest in their local area.
Markets Always Shift
Real estate is cyclical. While we may be in a tight spot now, things do change. Rates adjust, new inventory comes online, and buyers and sellers continue to adapt.
Final Thoughts
Vermont real estate can be tough, unpredictable, and even a little weird. But it’s also full of promise. Yes, the market may be challenging, but it’s still possible to buy smart, sell strategically, and find places where life truly works for you.
If you're thinking about buying, selling, or simply exploring your options, I’m here to guide you through it with honesty, local insight, and a little humor to make the ride easier.
This isn’t just about transactions. It’s about helping people find where they belong, one step at a time.
Let’s talk real estate, real goals, and real Vermont living — the good, the bad, and everything in between.
📩 Reach out to Shola Abraham today — Whether it’s a casual coffee chat or serious next steps, I’d love to help you make sense of this market and make the most of your next move in Vermont.
