Vermont Home Cost Calculator

Updated September 28, 2026 by Tony Walton, Principal Broker, New England Landmark Realty

Estimate your monthly payment, Vermont property transfer tax, and cash to close for a home in Vermont. Start from a town's 2026 median sale price, then adjust the price, down payment, rate, and how you'll use the home.

Having trouble viewing the calculator? Open it in a new window.

How Vermont's Property Transfer Tax Works

In Vermont, the buyer pays a property transfer tax at closing. The rate depends on how you'll use the home:

  • Primary residence: 0.5% on the first $200,000 and 1.47% on the amount above it.
  • Primary residence financed through VHFA or USDA Rural Development: the first $250,000 is exempt, and 1.47% applies above it.
  • Other year-round homes, such as second homes: 3.62% of the full price.
  • Seasonal camps and long-term rentals: 1.47% of the full price.

These rates include Vermont's 0.22% Clean Water Surcharge where it applies. On a $573,800 home, the 2026 Waterbury median, the tax is about $6,500 for a primary residence and about $20,800 for a second home.

Estimating Vermont Property Taxes

Vermont property tax bills combine an education tax rate and a municipal rate, and each town's total rate is different. Homes that aren't your primary residence pay the nonhomestead education rate. Find a town's current rate on its tax bill or from the town clerk; education rates are published by the Vermont Department of Taxes. Assessed values can differ from the purchase price.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who pays the property transfer tax in Vermont?

The buyer. It is paid at closing and appears on both your Loan Estimate and your Closing Disclosure.

How much is the transfer tax on a $500,000 home in Vermont?

About $5,410 for a primary residence, about $3,675 for a VHFA-financed primary residence, and about $18,100 for a second home.

Is this calculator a loan offer?

No. It gives estimates only. Your lender's Loan Estimate shows your actual rate, payment, and closing costs.

Where do the town prices come from?

Each preset uses the 2026 single-family median on our town pages, calculated from MLS sales.

What to Do Next

Call our office at 802-253-4711, reach Tony Walton directly at 802-233-4107, or contact us.

Want Vermont market updates and homeowner tips in your inbox? Sign up for Tony's newsletter. You can unsubscribe at any time.

Sources