By New England Landmark Realty LTD

Vermont captivates with a charm that feels as if it were frozen in time. From the storybook allure of its postcard-worthy villages to the serene beauty of its rolling green mountains, the state offers more than just a place to live—it invites you to become part of a lifestyle rooted in warmth, history, and natural splendor. For those exploring Vermont real estate, every home comes with the promise of this unique way of life—whether it’s a historic gem or a modern escape nestled in the state’s breathtaking landscapes. But when the pandemic reshaped real estate markets across the country, an intriguing question arose: how would Vermont’s beloved historic homes fare against newer builds in a market unlike before?

The COVID-19 pandemic turned Vermont into a sought-after destination for buyers seeking escape from urban life. With its open spaces, slower pace, and remote-work appeal, the state became a haven for out-of-state buyers. Vermont's historic homes—built before 1940—found themselves in the spotlight, their vintage charm not just appealing but captivating buyers looking for authenticity and uniqueness. At the same time, newer homes offered modern conveniences and efficiency, appealing to those prioritizing practicality.

Both segments experienced a dramatic surge in prices. Historic homes saw their average price rise from $269,994 in 2020 to $410,458 in 2024—a 52% increase. Newer homes also appreciated significantly, climbing from $360,354 to $525,042, a 46% jump. What stood out was how competitive historic homes became in appreciation, rivaling newer builds traditionally dominating the market.

The story of the pandemic real estate market isn’t just about prices—it’s about inventory. Both historic and newer homes faced a significant scarcity, fueling fierce competition. Sales of historic homes peaked at 2,238 transactions in 2021 but declined steadily to 1,211 by 2024. Newer homes followed a similar pattern, with sales volume dropping from 6,397 in 2020 to 3,646 in 2024. This scarcity pushed prices higher as buyers vied for whatever was available, whether it was a classic farmhouse or a sleek contemporary design.

Another revealing trend was the speed at which homes sold. Historic homes, which traditionally lingered on the market, saw their average Days on the Market (DOM) plummet from 130 days in 2020 to just 49 days in 2024. Newer homes moved even faster, with DOM dropping from 103 days in 2020 to an astonishing 32 days in 2022. This rapid pace underscored the intense demand across the board.

The pandemic offered Vermont homeowners a clear lesson: historic and newer homes have distinct strengths. With their unique character and heritage, historic properties proved they could compete on value and desirability. Newer homes, meanwhile, maintained their edge in speed and volume, meeting the needs of buyers looking for move-in-ready options.

As Vermont’s real estate market continues to evolve, one thing is certain: the state’s housing market has room for both the old and the new. Whether you’re preserving a piece of history or building for the future, Vermont’s appeal as a place to live, invest, and thrive remains unmatched and enduring.

About The Author

Meet Tony Walton, owner and principal broker at New England Landmark Realty, your expert guide to Vermont's real estate scene. Discover personalized market reports, connect with our superior team of local Agents and Brokers, and access valuable resources for buyers and sellers. Delve into Tony's bio and kickstart your real estate journey today with New England Landmark Realty. Find his team at VTMove.com or call 802-253-4711 for personalized service and expert guidance