Don’t Buy a Home. Invest in Real Estate in Vermont
If you’re house-hunting, you’ve probably heard the phrase “find your dream home” more times than you can count. It’s everywhere. HGTV, social media, friends, and family — everyone loves the idea of that perfect house.
But what if I told you to stop looking for a dream home and start looking at real estate as an investment? Shift your mindset, and you’ll start making smarter, more strategic decisions. The truth is, real estate can (and should) help you build wealth — if you think about it differently.
Why Vermont Real Estate is a Smart Investment
Let’s talk numbers, because data doesn’t lie. Over the past 5 years, Vermont has seen impressive appreciation in residential real estate values:
- 2020 to 2023: Vermont’s median home price climbed a staggering 40% statewide.
- In Chittenden County, which includes Burlington and its surrounding towns, appreciation is even higher. Homes in this region rose by 10% annually over the past couple of years alone.
For example, if you bought a home for $300,000 in 2018, that same property could now be worth close to $420,000 (or more). That’s a $120,000 increase in equity, all while you lived in it or rented it out.
Shift Your Mindset: From Dream Home to Investment Property
When you stop thinking of a home as just a place to live and instead see it as an investment, the game changes. Here’s how to analyze a Vermont property through an investment lens:
1. Location: Value and Lifestyle Matter
A great location doesn’t just make your daily life easier — it boosts your return on investment. Properties closer to Burlington, Montpelier, or popular ski destinations like Stowe, Killington, or Sugarbush tend to appreciate faster and attract renters or buyers year-round. Vermont is a destination for outdoor enthusiasts, vacationers, and remote workers, keeping demand high.
Ask yourself: Will this location cut down my commute, offer rental potential, and attract future buyers or renters?
2. Condition: Turnkey vs. Renovation Potential
You’ve got two options when investing in Vermont real estate:
- Turnkey homes: Move-in-ready properties let you enjoy the home or rent it out immediately. These are in high demand, with homes often selling above asking price.
- Fixer-uppers: Adding value through renovations can increase your equity and return significantly when you sell.
In Vermont, turnkey homes are selling fast. In 2023, well-maintained properties went under contract within days, often for more than the list price.
3. Appreciation and Equity: Long-Term Wealth Building
Vermont’s unique real estate market is shaped by limited inventory and steady demand. This combination keeps prices rising. When you invest in a home today, you’re building equity that can fund future opportunities, whether you upgrade, refinance, or purchase additional properties.
For example, appreciation trends show that Vermont real estate values are increasing year over year, making now a smart time to invest.
Why Vermont Real Estate is Always an Investment
Here’s the bottom line: Every property you buy is an investment, whether you realize it or not. Treat it that way! By focusing on location, condition, and appreciation, you’ll make decisions that build long-term wealth.
Instead of stressing about finding your dream home, ask yourself:
- Will this property grow in value?
- Can I rent it out for income if I move?
- Is this location desirable for future buyers or renters?
Ready to Invest in Vermont Real Estate?
Vermont’s real estate market has serious potential for wealth-building. With strong appreciation trends, steady demand, and a high quality of life, investing in Vermont homes is a strategic move.
Whether you’re buying your first home, a rental property, or a vacation spot, the numbers are on your side. By shifting your mindset, you can start seeing real estate as the financial tool it truly is.
Thinking about buying or investing in Vermont real estate? Let’s connect — I’m here to help you find properties that build your wealth and match your goals.
