http://www.buyvtrealestate.com/blog/?format=rss Whether you're buying or selling or just looking to learn more about real estate trends in Vermont, the Geri Reilly Real Estate blog has plenty of news, tips, and insights. en-US Thu, 14 May 2026 14:37:00 -0400 https://www.buyvtrealestate.com/blog/posts/2026/05/14/what-first-time-home-buyers-should-know-before-purchasing-in-vermont/ Buying your first home is an exciting milestone, but it can also feel overwhelming, especially in a competitive real estate market. For first-time buyers in Vermont, understanding the process ahead of time can make the experience much smoother and more manageable. From financing and budgeting to inspections and closing costs, there are many moving pieces involved in purchasing a home. Taking the time to prepare before beginning your search can help you feel more confident and avoid unnecessary stress along the way. One of the most important first steps is understanding your budget. Many first-time buyers focus only on the monthly mortgage payment, but owning a home includes additional costs such as property taxes, homeowners insurance, utilities, maintenance, and repairs. Looking at your full financial picture before beginning your search helps ensure you are shopping within a comfortable price range. Getting pre-approved for a mortgage is another critical step. A pre-approval helps determine how much you can borrow and shows sellers that you are a serious buyer. In competitive markets like Vermont, sellers often prefer offers from buyers who are already pre-approved because it reduces uncertainty during the transaction. It is also important to understand that pre-approval does not necessarily mean you should spend the maximum amount you qualify for. Staying within a comfortable budget allows flexibility for unexpected expenses and helps reduce financial stress after moving in. When beginning your home search, it is helpful to identify your priorities early. Think about what features matter most to you, such as location, size, outdoor space, commute time, or proximity to schools and amenities. At the same time, remain flexible. Very few homes check every single box, especially for first-time buyers. Working with a knowledgeable local real estate agent can make a major difference during the process. An experienced agent understands the Vermont market, can help identify potential concerns with properties, and will guide you through negotiations, inspections, and closing. Home inspections are another important part of the buying process. Even if a home appears to be well maintained, inspections can uncover issues that may not be visible during a showing. Roof conditions, plumbing, electrical systems, drainage, and foundation concerns are all things buyers should carefully evaluate before finalizing a purchase. In Vermont specifically, weather and seasonal conditions can affect homes differently than in other states. Buyers should pay close attention to heating systems, insulation, roofing, and drainage, especially after long winters and freeze-thaw cycles. Closing costs are another expense first-time buyers sometimes underestimate. In addition to your down payment, you should plan for lender fees, title insurance, appraisal costs, prepaid taxes, and other closing-related expenses. These costs typically range between 2% and 5% of the purchase price. Patience is also important throughout the process. The first home you see may not be the one you purchase, and it is common for buyers to experience competition or multiple-offer situations. Staying focused on your long-term goals and avoiding rushed decisions can help you make a more confident investment. It is easy to get emotionally attached to homes during the search process, but it is important to stay practical as well. A home may look beautiful on the surface while still requiring costly repairs or updates. Balancing emotion with careful evaluation is key to making a smart purchase. Finally, remember that buying a home is a major learning experience. You do not need to know everything before starting the process. Surrounding yourself with the right professionals, asking questions, and taking things step by step can make homeownership feel much more approachable. For many people, buying a home in Vermont is about more than just real estate. It is about building a future, creating stability, and becoming part of a community. With preparation, patience, and the right guidance, first-time buyers can navigate the process successfully and feel confident in their decision. https://www.buyvtrealestate.com/blog/posts/2026/05/14/what-first-time-home-buyers-should-know-before-purchasing-in-vermont/ Thu, 14 May 2026 14:37:00 -0400 https://www.buyvtrealestate.com/blog/posts/2026/05/05/may-in-vermont-events-outdoor-activities-and-local-favorites-around-burlington/ May is one of the most exciting times of year in Vermont. After months of snow, cold temperatures, and muddy roads, the state begins to fully transition into spring. Trees start to bloom, outdoor dining returns, and Burlington comes alive with events, activities, and opportunities to enjoy the warmer weather. For both locals and visitors, May offers the perfect balance between spring and summer. The days are longer, the crowds are still manageable, and there are countless ways to experience the beauty of Vermont. Whether you enjoy spending time outdoors, exploring local businesses, or attending community events, Burlington and the surrounding areas have something for everyone this time of year.   One of the biggest signs that spring has truly arrived is the return of activity along the Burlington waterfront. Waterfront Park and the Burlington Bike Path quickly become gathering places for walkers, runners, and cyclists eager to get outside again. The views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains are especially beautiful in May, when the landscape begins turning green again after the long winter.   The Burlington Bike Path is one of the best ways to experience the area during spring. Stretching along the lakefront, it offers scenic views, easy access to parks, and a peaceful atmosphere that makes it popular for both locals and tourists. Whether you are biking, walking, or simply sitting by the water, the lakefront becomes one of Burlington’s most active and enjoyable areas throughout May.   Downtown Burlington also starts buzzing with energy as Church Street Marketplace fills with outdoor dining, shopping, and street activity. Restaurants begin opening their patios, musicians return to the streets, and people take advantage of the warmer weather to spend more time outside. Local coffee shops, boutiques, and restaurants all contribute to the vibrant atmosphere that makes Burlington feel especially lively during spring.   May is also a great month for local events and entertainment. One of the most well-known events is the Vermont City Marathon and Relay, which takes place during Memorial Day weekend. The marathon attracts runners and spectators from across the country and creates an exciting atmosphere throughout the city. Streets fill with supporters, local businesses welcome visitors, and the waterfront becomes especially energetic during race weekend.   Live music and performances are another major part of Burlington’s spring scene. Venues like Higher Ground and the Flynn Center host concerts, comedy shows, and performances throughout the month. From local bands to nationally touring artists, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy live entertainment during May.   For those who enjoy local food and shopping, farmers markets begin expanding as spring progresses. Vendors offer fresh produce, baked goods, flowers, maple products, and handmade crafts. Visiting a farmers market is one of the best ways to support local Vermont businesses while enjoying the seasonal atmosphere.   Outdoor recreation also becomes much more accessible in May. Lower elevation hiking trails begin drying out, parks reopen for seasonal use, and nearby scenic drives become even more enjoyable as the mountains and fields regain their color. While some higher-elevation trails may still be muddy, there are plenty of opportunities to spend time outside and enjoy the changing season.   Lake Champlain itself becomes a centerpiece of activity during spring. Boating season slowly begins, waterfront parks become more active, and sunset views over the Adirondacks create some of the most beautiful evenings of the year. Even something as simple as taking an evening walk by the water can feel refreshing after the long Vermont winter. May is also an ideal time to explore the towns surrounding Burlington. Places like Shelburne, Charlotte, and Essex begin hosting spring events and community activities, while local farms and orchards prepare for the busy months ahead. Scenic drives through Vermont’s countryside become especially rewarding this time of year as landscapes transition from brown and gray to vibrant greens.   One of the best parts about May in Vermont is the feeling of anticipation. Summer is close enough to start planning lake days, hikes, and vacations, but spring still offers a quieter and more relaxed pace. It is a time when people naturally spend more time outdoors, reconnect with the community, and enjoy the return of warmer weather.   Whether you are attending an event downtown, biking along the waterfront, exploring a local farmers market, or simply enjoying the longer days, May captures the beginning of Vermont’s most active and enjoyable season. Around Burlington, there is no shortage of ways to make the most of spring. For residents, it is a reminder of why so many people love living in Vermont. For visitors, it is often the beginning of a lasting appreciation for everything the area has to offer. https://www.buyvtrealestate.com/blog/posts/2026/05/05/may-in-vermont-events-outdoor-activities-and-local-favorites-around-burlington/ Tue, 05 May 2026 14:19:00 -0400 https://www.buyvtrealestate.com/blog/posts/2026/04/06/april-in-vermont-events-activities-and-signs-of-spring-around-burlington/ April in Vermont is a month of transition. Winter slowly loosens its grip, snowbanks begin to shrink, and the first real signs of spring start to emerge. Around Burlington, this time of year is often referred to as “mud season,” but it is still a season full of quiet beauty, local events, and the anticipation of warmer days ahead. While April may not have the peak tourism of summer or fall, it offers a unique opportunity to experience Vermont in a more relaxed and authentic way. Whether you are a longtime resident or new to the area, there is plenty to enjoy as the seasons shift. One of the most iconic signs of spring in Vermont is maple sugaring season. Early April often marks the tail end of this beloved tradition, and many local sugarhouses are still open for visits. This is a great time to learn how maple syrup is made, sample fresh syrup, and enjoy classic treats like sugar-on-snow. Visiting a sugarhouse is not only a fun activity but a meaningful way to connect with Vermont’s agricultural roots. As the snow melts, Burlington’s waterfront begins to come back to life. Lake Champlain offers a peaceful setting for early spring walks, with wide-open views of the Adirondack Mountains. While it may still be chilly, the longer days and changing light make it a perfect time to get outside and enjoy the scenery. The Burlington Bike Path becomes more accessible as conditions improve, offering a scenic route for walking, running, or biking. Church Street Marketplace is another area that starts to feel more active in April. Shops and restaurants begin preparing for the busy seasons ahead, and you can enjoy a quieter version of downtown Burlington before the summer crowds arrive. Local cafés are especially inviting this time of year, offering a cozy place to warm up after a walk or meet up with friends. April is a great time to explore Vermont’s indoor attractions. The ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain is a popular spot for families and anyone interested in the natural history of the region. With interactive exhibits and lake-focused displays, it is both educational and entertaining. Local art galleries and small museums throughout the Burlington area provide a chance to experience the creative side of the community. For those who enjoy local food and shopping, winter farmers markets often continue into April, moving indoors to accommodate the unpredictable weather. These markets feature local produce, baked goods, maple products, and handmade items, making them a great way to support local businesses and discover Vermont-made goods. Outdoor enthusiasts will find that April offers a mix of opportunities, depending on conditions. While many hiking trails are still muddy and best avoided to prevent damage, lower-elevation walks and paved paths can be enjoyable. It is a good time to explore nature at a slower pace, paying attention to early signs of spring such as budding trees, flowing streams, and returning birds. Spring events begin to pick up in April. Local venues host live music, community gatherings, and seasonal celebrations that bring people together after the quieter winter months. Checking local event calendars can reveal everything from small concerts to craft fairs and workshops. April is a time when Vermont’s landscapes begin to transform. Fields that were once covered in snow start to reappear, and the first hints of green begin to show through. While it may not yet be the lush greenery of late spring, there is something special about witnessing the gradual return of color and life. For many, April is a season of preparation. Gardeners begin planning for the growing season, homeowners start thinking about spring projects, and the real estate market begins to gain momentum. It is a month that bridges the gap between winter’s stillness and the energy of the months ahead. One of the most appealing aspects of April in Vermont is the sense of anticipation. There is a feeling that something new is just around the corner. The days are longer, the sun feels warmer, and each passing week brings noticeable changes. While mud season may not always be glamorous, it is an essential part of Vermont’s seasonal rhythm. It offers a chance to slow down, appreciate the transition, and enjoy the quieter moments before the busy seasons arrive. Around Burlington, April provides a little bit of everything. From maple sugaring and waterfront walks to local markets and community events, there are countless ways to experience the charm of early spring. It is a time to embrace the changing landscape, support local businesses, and take advantage of the unique opportunities that come with the season. Whether you are exploring downtown, heading out for a scenic walk, or simply enjoying the longer days, April in Vermont is a reminder that spring is on its way. https://www.buyvtrealestate.com/blog/posts/2026/04/06/april-in-vermont-events-activities-and-signs-of-spring-around-burlington/ Mon, 06 Apr 2026 10:04:00 -0400