Moving to Vermont and exploring communities ------------------------------------------ Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman also provides a relocation guide for people considering a move to Vermont. The **Moving to Vermont** landing page invites prospective residents to contact the firm’s Relocation Manager and explore resources about where to live, work, learn and playhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/#:~:text=Best%20Places%20to%20Live. It links to detailed articles about Vermont communities and highlights five regions that are especially popular with newcomershttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/#:~:text=Best%20Places%20to%20Live. ### Best places to live in Vermont An article titled **“5 Best Places to Live in Vermont”** outlines five regions and emphasises that the “best” place depends on individual needs and preferenceshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/live/best-places-live-vermont/#:~:text=5%20Best%20Places%20to%20Live,in%20Vermont. The article notes that Vermont’s relaxed commuting culture encourages exploring surrounding towns before deciding where to settlehttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/live/best-places-live-vermont/#:~:text=Disclaimer%3A%C2%A0%20There%20are%20so%20many,explore%20and%20find%20the%20perfect. The highlighted regions are: * **Greater Burlington Area.** This region includes Burlington, Colchester, Essex, Shelburne, South Burlington, Williston and Winooskihttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/live/best-places-live-vermont/#:~:text=Depending%20on%20who%20you%20ask%2C,home%20to%20several%20major%20employers. It offers urban amenities alongside natural beauty, with a thriving arts scene, farm‑to‑table dining and access to Lake Champlain and the Green Mountainshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/live/best-places-live-vermont/#:~:text=Greater%20Burlington%20%20is%20Vermont%E2%80%99s,a%20strong%20sense%20of%20community. Housing options range from downtown apartments to suburban homes and rural propertieshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/live/best-places-live-vermont/#:~:text=Greater%20Burlington%20offers%20a%20unique,of%20dining%20and%20entertainment%20options. Major employers such as Ben & Jerry’s, Burton Snowboards and the University of Vermont are located herehttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/live/best-places-live-vermont/#:~:text=Depending%20on%20who%20you%20ask%2C,University%20of%20Vermont%2C%20and%20more. * **Waterbury/Stowe Area.** Centrally located in the Green Mountains, this region blends small‑town charm with outdoor adventure. Residents enjoy year‑round recreation, including skiing and snowboarding at Stowe Mountain Resort and summer hiking, mountain biking and golfhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/live/best-places-live-vermont/#:~:text=This%20region%20is%20a%20haven,providing%20a%20diverse%20range%20of. Stowe is known as the “Ski Capital of the East” and features a vibrant arts community and farm‑to‑table dininghttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/live/best-places-live-vermont/#:~:text=Stowe%2C%20often%20dubbed%20the%20%E2%80%9CSki,options%2C%20and%20a%20welcoming%20atmosphere. Waterbury, home to the Ben & Jerry’s factory, provides a quaint New England atmosphere and proximity to additional ski areas like Sugarbush, Mad River and Bolton Valleyhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/live/best-places-live-vermont/#:~:text=Waterbury%2C%20home%20to%20the%20famous,Mad%20River%2C%20and%20Bolton%20Valley. * **Vergennes/Middlebury Area.** Vermont’s oldest city, Vergennes, and the college town of Middlebury are surrounded by rolling hills, farms and Lake Champlainhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/live/best-places-live-vermont/#:~:text=The%20Vergennes%2FMiddlebury%20area%20is%20steeped,progressive%20energy%20to%20the%20region. The area offers strong community pride, excellent schools and plentiful recreationhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/live/best-places-live-vermont/#:~:text=The%20area%E2%80%99s%20rolling%20hills%2C%20charming,a%20wealth%20of%20recreational%20opportunities. Downtown Middlebury features shops, restaurants and art galleries, while the Middlebury Farmers’ Market showcases local goodshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/live/best-places-live-vermont/#:~:text=Downtown%20Middlebury%20is%20a%20hub,with%20local%20farmers%20and%20craftspeople. Vergennes hosts community events on its City Green and parks such as Vergennes Falls Park and Macdonough Park provide trails and scenic waterfallshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/live/best-places-live-vermont/#:~:text=Vergennes%2C%20dubbed%20%E2%80%9CA%20Little%20City,convenient%20docks%20for%20boating%20enthusiasts. * **St Albans Area.** Located in Franklin County, St Albans and its surroundings combine rural beauty with a close‑knit community. The area boasts historic architecture, scenic parks and St Albans Bay on Lake Champlain, which offers fishing and boatinghttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/live/best-places-live-vermont/#:~:text=Living%20in%20St,a%20connection%20to%20the%20outdoors. Festivals such as the Vermont Maple Festival and summer concerts foster a strong sense of camaraderiehttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/live/best-places-live-vermont/#:~:text=Community%20is%20at%20the%20heart,winter%20festivities%2C%20there%E2%80%99s%20always%20something. The Hard’ack Recreation Area offers activities like hiking, mountain biking, sledding, skiing and snowshoeinghttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/live/best-places-live-vermont/#:~:text=The%20Hard%E2%80%99ack%20Recreation%20Area%20is,outdoor%20recreation%20but%20also%20provides. Franklin County’s agricultural heritage is celebrated through farmers’ markets and agricultural fairshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/live/best-places-live-vermont/#:~:text=Franklin%20County%E2%80%98s%20agricultural%20heritage%20is,exhibits%2C%20tractor%20pulls%2C%20and%20more, and the region’s affordable housing and good schools appeal to familieshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/live/best-places-live-vermont/#:~:text=The%20St%20Albans%E2%80%99%20strong%20sense,a%20slower%20pace%20of%20life. * **Montpelier/Barre Area.** This region encompasses Vermont’s capital, Montpelier, and the neighboring town of Barre. Montpelier, the smallest U.S. state capital, offers a vibrant arts scene, boutiques and a commitment to environmental sustainabilityhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/live/best-places-live-vermont/#:~:text=Montpelier%2C%20the%20capital%20city%20of,those%20seeking%20a%20balanced%20lifestyle. Barre is noted for its granite quarries and historic downtown buildingshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/live/best-places-live-vermont/#:~:text=Barre%2C%20often%20called%20the%20%E2%80%9CGranite,craftsmanship%20of%20the%20local%20artisans. Residents enjoy community events, local shops and cafes, and proximity to ski resorts and hiking trailshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/live/best-places-live-vermont/#:~:text=Montpelier%2FBarre%20Area%3A%20Vermont%E2%80%99s%20Capital%20and,Historic%20Charm. The article highlights that Vermont’s varied regions provide urban excitement and rural serenity, encouraging newcomers to explore and find the community that suits their lifestylehttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/live/best-places-live-vermont/#:~:text=Finding%20Your%20Place%20to%20Call,Home%20in%20Vermont. Overall, the relocation guide portrays Vermont as a state where picturesque landscapes, welcoming communities and high quality of life are the normhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/live/best-places-live-vermont/#:~:text=Finding%20Your%20Place%20to%20Call,Home%20in%20Vermont. Whether you’re drawn to a bustling college town, a mountain resort or a quiet lakeside village, Vermont offers diverse options for your next home. ### Living, working, learning and playing in Vermont The relocation guide offers more than just a list of communities. It explains what day‑to‑day life in Vermont is like and provides resources for people relocating to the state: * **Living in Vermont.** Vermont, one of the six New England states, is known for its Green Mountains, outdoor recreation, entrepreneurial spirit and renowned cheese and ice creamhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/live/#:~:text=Living%20in%20Vermont. Open landscapes and pastoral views contribute to the state’s beauty, and with a population of about 624,594 people Vermont ranks 49th in the country by populationhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/live/#:~:text=Living%20in%20Vermont. The guide directs readers to information about each season (winter, spring, summer and fall) along with pages on politics, weather, the economy and environmental topicshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/live/#:~:text=Living%20in%20Vermont. * **Work and the economy.** Vermont’s unemployment rate averages around 3 %—among the lowest in the United Stateshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/work/#:~:text=Work. According to ZipRecruiter, the average wage in the state is about $61,581https://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/work/#:~:text=Work. The relocation guide notes that Vermont’s economy includes both large national brands and nearly 80,000 small businesseshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/work/#:~:text=Working%20in%20Vermont. Major employers span education, healthcare, technology, the ski industry and state governmenthttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/work/#:~:text=Vermont%E2%80%99s%20largest%20employers%20tend%20to,industry%2C%20and%20state%20government%2C%20including. Examples include the University of Vermont, UVM Medical Center, Global Foundries, Northwestern Medical Center, Champlain College, Ben & Jerry’s, Burton Snowboards, Mylan Technologies and Cabot Creameryhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/work/#:~:text=University%20of%20Vermont. The state is also home to socially responsible companies such as Vermont Creamery, Seventh Generation and Lake Champlain Chocolateshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/work/#:~:text=The%20state%20also%20boasts%20many,Generation%2C%20and%20Lake%20Champlain%20Chocolates. In the broader economy Vermont’s gross domestic product is around $35 billion, with roughly 80,000 small businesses and a labor force of about 313,279 peoplehttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/live/economy/#:~:text=Vermont%E2%80%99s%20economy%20is%20led%20by,of%20unemployment%20in%20the%20US. Tourism, manufacturing and agriculture are leading industries, while tech and food manufacturing are growing sectorshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/live/economy/#:~:text=Vermont%E2%80%99s%20economy%20is%20led%20by,of%20unemployment%20in%20the%20US. Northwest Vermont—home to Burlington, Essex, St Albans and Middlebury—hosts many of the state’s major employershttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/live/economy/#:~:text=Vermont%E2%80%99s%20economy%20is%20led%20by,of%20unemployment%20in%20the%20US. Agriculture has diversified beyond dairy and maple syrup; companies such as Cabot Creamery, Ben & Jerry’s and King Arthur Flour anchor the food economy alongside smaller producers like Jasper Hill Cheese, 14th Star Brewing, Caledonia Spirits and Pete’s Greenshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/live/economy/#:~:text=While%20Vermont%20is%20known%20for,reputation%20for%20quality%20artisan%20products. Vermont’s tech sector generates roughly $6.3 billion in annual wages; events like Vermont Tech Jam, Invention2Venture, Launch VT and Peak Pitch connect entrepreneurs, companies and investorshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/live/economy/#:~:text=Tech%20Sector. The creative economy contributes $1 billion (about 3.2 % of state GDP) and supports tourism; venues such as the Flynn Center, Barre Opera House and Paramount Theater host concerts and performances while museums and galleries—including Shelburne Museum, Burlington City Arts, Fleming Museum and Edgewater Gallery—showcase fine and folk arthttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/live/economy/#:~:text=The%20arts%20are%20also%20alive,keep%20any%20art%20hound%20busy. * **Education and learning.** Vermont ranked fourth in the nation for Pre‑K through 12 education and eighth overall for education (including higher education) in the 2019 U.S. News reporthttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/learn/#:~:text=Vermont%20Schools. SafeHome.org ranked Vermont the 11th “smartest” state in America in 2019 based on high‑school graduation rates, bachelor’s degrees and standardized test scoreshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/learn/#:~:text=Vermont%20Schools. The relocation guide links to resources on child care and pre‑schools, colleges and universities, K‑12 education and lifelong learning. * **Arts, culture and entertainment.** The “Play” section notes that Vermont has more than 2,000 art‑related businesses and that arts and cultural production generates over $1 billion in revenuehttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/play/art-entertainment/#:~:text=Art%20%26%20Entertainment. Large venues such as the Burlington Waterfront, Champlain Valley Expo and Shelburne Museum host national actshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/play/art-entertainment/#:~:text=Vermont%20boasts%20a%20strong%20arts,theaters%20in%20Vermont%2C%20including%20the. Theaters like the Flynn Center and the Paramount Theater bring dancers, musicians, speakers and storytellers to the areahttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/play/art-entertainment/#:~:text=national%20acts,musicians%2C%20speakers%2C%20storytellers%2C%20and%20more. For fine art, the Shelburne Museum and the Fleming Museum at the University of Vermont have strong collections, while smaller galleries and niche museums—Edgewater Gallery, Frog Hollow and Grand Isle Art Works—are scattered throughout the regionhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/play/art-entertainment/#:~:text=If%20you%20are%20looking%20for,in%20the%20area%2C%20often%20boast. Craft fairs and farmers’ markets feature handmade itemshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/play/art-entertainment/#:~:text=peppered%20across%20the%20region,often%20boast%20beautiful%20handmade%20items. Vermont’s proximity to major cities means that Montreal is about a 90‑minute drive and Boston roughly four hours away, and Burlington offers direct flights to cities such as New York, Boston, Orlando and Washington, D.C.https://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/play/art-entertainment/#:~:text=When%20you%20long%20for%20a,Washington%2C%20DC%20and%20other%20destinations. * **Climate and seasons.** Vermont enjoys about 167 sunny days per year, receives an average of 43.3 inches of rain and about 89.25 inches of snow annuallyhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/live/weather/#:~:text=Weather. The relocation guide emphasizes that four distinct seasons shape daily routines and weekend adventures, helping new residents understand Vermont’s climatehttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/live/weather/#:~:text=Vermont%E2%80%99s%20four%20distinct%20seasons%20shape,and%20thrive%20in%20every%20season. Spring (March–May) is characterized by melting snow, rain showers and rapidly changing weatherhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/live/weather/#:~:text=Spring%20in%20Vermont%3A%20Mud%20Season,returning%20from%20their%20winter%20retreats; summer (June–August) brings warm temperatures around 80°F (27 °C) and abundant outdoor activitieshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/live/weather/#:~:text=Summer%20in%20Vermont%3A%20Lakeside%20Living,humidity%20keep%20the%20climate%20comfortable; fall (September–November) showcases vibrant foliage, crisp air and festivalshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/live/weather/#:~:text=Fall%20in%20Vermont%3A%20Foliage%2C%20Festivals,drive%20to%20enjoy%20the%20foliage; and winter (December–February) is long and snowy, with temperatures ranging from single digits to the low 30s°F and ample opportunities for skiing, snowboarding and other winter sportshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/live/weather/#:~:text=Winter%20in%20Vermont%3A%20Skiing%2C%20Snow%2C,and%20events%20throughout%20the%20state. Overall, Vermont’s seasonal variety offers year‑round experiences for residents and visitorshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/live/weather/#:~:text=Overall%2C%20Vermont%E2%80%99s%20weather%20and%20seasons,to%20enjoy%20in%20this%20picturesque. Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman – Website Content Summary for LLM Training ======================================================================= About the company ----------------- Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman is a Vermont–based real estate firm affiliated with Coldwell Banker. The company’s REALTORS® sell more real estate in Vermont than any other firm and are recognized as one of the top 50 Coldwell Banker companies worldwidehttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/home-buying/why-use-realtor.html#:~:text=Send%20Email. Their real‐estate agents are members of the National Association of REALTORS® and adhere to a strict code of ethics. Agents are dedicated to serving Vermont buyers and sellers, are supported by full‑time staff, and have a reputation for productivityhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/home-buying/why-use-realtor.html#:~:text=Send%20Email. Why use a REALTOR®? ------------------- * **Professional membership & ethics.** Not all real‐estate licensees are REALTORS®. REALTORS® are members of the National Association of Realtors®, abide by a code of ethics and are expected to maintain a higher level of skill and knowledgehttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/home-buying/why-use-realtor.html#:~:text=Send%20Email. * **Dedicated local expertise.** Hickok & Boardman REALTORS® are dedicated to serving Vermont buyers and sellers and are supported by full‑time staffhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/home-buying/why-use-realtor.html#:~:text=Send%20Email. * **Maximize buying power.** Agents can refer buyers to lenders and programs that match their financial circumstanceshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/home-buying/why-use-realtor.html#:~:text=Send%20Email. * **Multiple search tools.** REALTORS® have access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) and can also identify properties that may not be publicly listedhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/home-buying/why-use-realtor.html#:~:text=Send%20Email. * **Market knowledge.** REALTORS® stay up to date on local market conditions so clients can make informed decisionshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/home-buying/why-use-realtor.html#:~:text=Send%20Email. * **Property evaluation & negotiations.** Agents help clients evaluate price and property condition, recommend inspectors or service providers, negotiate offers, and manage contingencieshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/home-buying/why-use-realtor.html#:~:text=Send%20Email. * **Managing deadlines & closing.** REALTORS® keep track of financing and inspection deadlines, coordinate final walk‑throughs, and guide clients through closinghttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/home-buying/why-use-realtor.html#:~:text=Send%20Email. First‑time homebuyers guide --------------------------- Hickok & Boardman provides a detailed guide for buyers purchasing their first homehttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/home-buying/vermont-first-time-buyers-guide.html#:~:text=Buying%20your%20first%20home%20is,are%20prepared%20for%20the%20process. Key points include: * **Know what you can afford.** Decide whether owning is right for you and determine how much you can spend. Financing options may require 0–5 % down; agents can refer you to local lendershttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/home-buying/vermont-first-time-buyers-guide.html#:~:text=Buying%20your%20first%20home%20is,are%20prepared%20for%20the%20process. * **Understand the local market.** Pricing and demand vary across towns and neighborhoods. Buyers should look at recent sales data, review quarterly market reports and consult an agenthttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/home-buying/vermont-first-time-buyers-guide.html#:~:text=2. * **Establish your search criteria.** List needs and wants and be ready to adjust. Consider whether you can handle a fixer‑upper, if you prefer handling landscaping yourself or would prefer a condo/townhouse, and whether you’re open to new construction that might lengthen your commutehttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/home-buying/vermont-first-time-buyers-guide.html#:~:text=3. * **Finding your home.** Since most buyers start their search online, the site offers search tools, open‑house listings, market statistics and information on Vermont townshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/home-buying/vermont-first-time-buyers-guide.html#:~:text=4. * **Making an offer and closing.** Agents help formulate winning offers and guide clients through inspections, appraisals, securing insurance and scheduling a final walk‑throughhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/home-buying/vermont-first-time-buyers-guide.html#:~:text=5. Buyers should hire a real‑estate attorney and a home inspector and stay on top of deadlineshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/home-buying/vermont-first-time-buyers-guide.html#:~:text=In%20addition%20to%20your%20Agent,you%20to%20the%20closing%20table. * **Closing day.** Plan for a final walk‑through, schedule enough time for the closing, and coordinate utilities and moving arrangementshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/home-buying/vermont-first-time-buyers-guide.html#:~:text=7,Home. Moving tips & checklist ----------------------- Hickok & Boardman’s Moving Checklist article acknowledges that moving is stressful and encourages proactive planning. The article emphasizes: * **Start early.** Preparing for a move requires completing chores well before deadlineshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/home-buying/home-selling-tips/moving-checklist.html#:~:text=to%20break%20out%20into%20a,in%20advance%20of%20their%20deadlines. The checklist suggests printing simple reminders to keep you organizedhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/home-buying/home-selling-tips/moving-checklist.html#:~:text=to%20break%20out%20into%20a,in%20advance%20of%20their%20deadlines. * **Get rid of what you don’t need.** Sorting through belongings and reducing clutter helps control the process. A garage sale and donations to local charities such as Goodwill, ReSource and the Chittenden Solid Waste District are recommendedhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/home-buying/home-selling-tips/moving-checklist.html#:~:text=Get%20rid%20of%20what%20you,don%27t%20need. * **Consider a professional mover.** Contact a moving company early, obtain quotes and let professionals handle valuable itemshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/home-buying/home-selling-tips/moving-checklist.html#:~:text=Consider%20a%20professional%20mover. * **Prepare for your new location.** Open new bank accounts, arrange for utilities (cable, electricity, water, internet), find medical providers, update vehicle registrations and insurance, and prepare change‑of‑address formshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/home-buying/home-selling-tips/moving-checklist.html#:~:text=Prepare%20well%20in%20advance%20for,living%20at%20your%20new%20location. * **Stay organized.** Keep a legal pad with important phone numbers (banks, doctors, emergency contacts, utilities) and plan for a smooth transitionhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/home-buying/home-selling-tips/moving-checklist.html#:~:text=As%20the%20time%20approaches%2C%20get,a%20nice%20new%20legal%20pad. Tips for moving with kids ------------------------- The company offers advice for families moving with children: * **Communicate.** Maintain an open dialogue with children about the decision to move; explain the reasons and answer questions honestlyhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/home-buying/home-selling-tips/tips-moving-kids.html#:~:text=,move%20and%20answer%20questions%20truthfully. * **Listen.** Pay attention to children’s concerns and reassure them about new opportunitieshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/home-buying/home-selling-tips/tips-moving-kids.html#:~:text=Listen,of%20the%20new%20opportunities%20ahead. * **Explore.** Work with a real‑estate associate to show kids the new neighborhood, playgrounds and community centershttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/home-buying/home-selling-tips/tips-moving-kids.html#:~:text=Explore,the%20environment%20seem%20more%20familiar. * **Comfort.** Pack children’s rooms last and set them up first at the new home to provide familiarity. Return to routines quicklyhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/home-buying/home-selling-tips/tips-moving-kids.html#:~:text=Comfort,routines%20as%20quickly%20as%20possible. * **Surprise.** Plan a special treat or game at the new house to make the first memory pleasanthttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/home-buying/home-selling-tips/tips-moving-kids.html#:~:text=Surprise,new%20house%20a%20pleasant%20one. Tips for moving with pets ------------------------- To keep pets calm during a move, Hickok & Boardman recommends: * **Prepare early.** Start packing early and maintain pets’ eating and exercise scheduleshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/home-buying/home-selling-tips/moving-pets.html#:~:text=Start%20your%20packing%20well%20ahead,affection%20as%20you%20always%20do. * **Before the move:** obtain veterinary records, purchase identification tags with the new address, schedule direct flights if flying, reserve pet‑friendly motels if driving, learn about pet regulations in the new state and let pets visit the new neighborhoodhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/home-buying/home-selling-tips/moving-pets.html#:~:text=Things%20to%20do%20before%20your,move. * **Moving day:** keep pets away from the chaos by boarding them with friends or confining them to a small room with food, water and familiar toyshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/home-buying/home-selling-tips/moving-pets.html#:~:text=On%20Moving%20Day. Pack essential items such as ID tags, medications, recent photos, litter box supplies, leashes, toys, food and waterhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/home-buying/home-selling-tips/moving-pets.html#:~:text=,This%20would. * **At the new home:** allow pets to explore under supervision, then place them in a small room with familiar items. Keep pets on a lead or tied up for the first few days and give extra attention to reduce stresshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/home-buying/home-selling-tips/moving-pets.html#:~:text=Your%20New%20Home. Protecting yourself from real estate fraud ----------------------------------------- An article on real‑estate fraud cautions that scams occur even in Vermont and explains common schemes and protective steps: * **Wire‑fraud scams.** Cybercriminals impersonate realtors, lenders or attorneys and send fake wiring instructions before closing. Do not trust wiring instructions received by email; verify them in person or by phone using verified contact informationhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/home-buying/guide-protecting-yourself-real-estate-fraud.html#:~:text=Download%20the%20Guide. If wire fraud is suspected, contact the Vermont FBI office or file a complaint with the Internet Crime Complaint Centerhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/home-buying/guide-protecting-yourself-real-estate-fraud.html#:~:text=,gov. Hickok & Boardman employs strong passwords, multifactor authentication and notification systems to warn clientshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/home-buying/guide-protecting-yourself-real-estate-fraud.html#:~:text=At%20Coldwell%20Banker%20Hickok%20%26,clients%20of%20potential%20wire%20fraud. * **Fake listings & rental scams.** Scammers post enticing property offers and pressure victims to act quickly or wire money. Inspect the property in person, be skeptical if the landlord refuses, and use secure payment platforms such as Airbnbhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/home-buying/guide-protecting-yourself-real-estate-fraud.html#:~:text=Fake%20Listings%20and%20Rental%20Scams%3A,Spotting%20the%20Red%20Flags. * **Deed scams.** Fraudsters attempt to transfer property ownership without consent. Always consult a legal professional before signing property documents and regularly check property records for unauthorized changeshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/home-buying/guide-protecting-yourself-real-estate-fraud.html#:~:text=Deed%20Scams%3A%20Safeguarding%20Your%20Property,Ownership. * **Cybersecurity best practices.** Use strong, unique passwords, enable multifactor authentication, avoid sharing transaction information on social media and never send sensitive documents via emailhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/home-buying/guide-protecting-yourself-real-estate-fraud.html#:~:text=Best%20Practices%20for%20Overall%20Cybersecurity. Vigilance and verification help ensure secure real‑estate transactionshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/home-buying/guide-protecting-yourself-real-estate-fraud.html#:~:text=While%20Vermont%20offers%20tranquility%2C%20scams,wherever%20it%20may%20take%20you. Navigating multiple offers ------------------------- In a seller’s market, multiple offers on a property have become common. Hickok & Boardman explains the dynamics of such situations and provides guidance for buyers and sellershttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/home-buying/dealing-multiple-offers.html#:~:text=A%C2%A0South%20Burlington%20%C2%A0couple%20lists%20a,divorced%2C%20looking%20to%20move%20on: * **Real‑world example.** A South Burlington condo listed at $275,000 received multiple offers within days; the successful buyer offered cash and $3,000 above the asking price, appealing to the seller’s desire to close quicklyhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/home-buying/dealing-multiple-offers.html#:~:text=A%C2%A0South%20Burlington%20%C2%A0couple%20lists%20a,divorced%2C%20looking%20to%20move%20on. * **Inventory & market pressures.** Nationwide declining inventory has increased U.S. home values; Vermont agents report similar trends and multiple‑offer situationshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/home-buying/dealing-multiple-offers.html#:~:text=Welcome%20to%20the%C2%A0current%20real%20estate,nationwide%2C%20has%20caused%20%2019. * **Preparation for buyers.** Loan officers recommend being pre‑qualified early and preparing necessary paperwork such as pay stubs, tax returns and a credit check; lenders prefer debt‑to‑income ratios below 43 %https://www.hickokandboardman.com/home-buying/dealing-multiple-offers.html#:~:text=%E2%80%9CFrom%20a%20lending%20perspective%2C%20it%E2%80%99s,lower%20the%20better%2C%E2%80%9D%20says%20Hill. Agents advise buyers to understand how multiple offers and counter‑offers work, to “shop first” and be ready to move quickly if necessaryhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/home-buying/dealing-multiple-offers.html#:~:text=Our%20talented%20teams%20of%20agents,for%20buyers%20facing%20multiple%20offers. Buyers should evaluate whether they can handle carrying two properties and be prepared to compete with cash offers above asking pricehttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/home-buying/dealing-multiple-offers.html#:~:text=Our%20talented%20teams%20of%20agents,for%20buyers%20facing%20multiple%20offers. * **Advice for sellers.** Sellers should have their home ready to show at all times and allow last‑minute showings. They should remain available to discuss offers (even when away) and be prepared to move quicklyhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/home-buying/dealing-multiple-offers.html#:~:text=From%20a%20seller%E2%80%99s%20perspective%2C%20it,Agent%20to%20discuss%20potential%20offers. Sellers may need to weigh offers based on contingencies, financing and closing dates rather than price alonehttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/home-buying/dealing-multiple-offers.html#:~:text=Finally%2C%20it%20is%20certainly%20to,financing%3B%20and%20a%20closing%20date. Agents can educate buyers and sellers about strategies and guide them through the complex processhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/home-buying/dealing-multiple-offers.html#:~:text=Our%20agents%20are%20equipped%20to%C2%A0educate,the%20least%20amount%20of%20time. Vermont market report and real estate trends (mid‑year 2025) ----------------------------------------------------------- Vermont’s mid‑year 2025 market report notes that the national single‑family median sale price was about $500,000 and that, despite high mortgage rates, housing experts expect U.S. prices to increase 1.3 – 5 % annually through 2029https://www.hickokandboardman.com/vermont-market-report/#:~:text=Both%20the%20U,necessary%20and%20sustainable%20market%20normalization. Vermont mirrored the national trend: the median sale price for single‑family homes reached $500,000 (up roughly 5.3 %), with 1,005 units sold (up 9 %)https://www.hickokandboardman.com/vermont-market-report/#:~:text=In%20Vermont%2C%20the%20market%20reflects,making%20among%20buyers. The condo median price climbed 7.25 % to $370,000 even as sales volume declinedhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/vermont-market-report/#:~:text=The%20multi,continued%20interest%20in%20development%20opportunities. Multi‑family properties saw the strongest appreciation—median price rose 26.9 % and sales increased 28 %https://www.hickokandboardman.com/vermont-market-report/#:~:text=The%20multi,continued%20interest%20in%20development%20opportunities. Land parcels saw sales rise 3.6 % even though the median price fell about 8 %https://www.hickokandboardman.com/vermont-market-report/#:~:text=The%20multi,continued%20interest%20in%20development%20opportunities. Buyers faced mortgage rates around 6.72 %, but higher equity and stable lending kept the Vermont market healthyhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/vermont-market-report/#:~:text=At%20the%20national%20level%2C%20housing,record%20levels%20of%20homeowner%20equity. County market highlights (mid‑year 2025) ---------------------------------------- * **Chittenden County.**  The state’s largest county recorded a median single‑family price of $590,000 (up 2.6 %) with 465 homes sold (up 15.1 %) and 732 new listingshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/vermont-market-report/market/chittenden-county/#:~:text=The%20Chittenden%20County%20real%20estate,increase. Condos fetched a median of $384,950 (up 8.9 %), although sales dipped 7.9 %https://www.hickokandboardman.com/vermont-market-report/market/chittenden-county/#:~:text=Median%20Sale%20Price%3AAverage%20Sale%20Price%3AUnits,1.8%2539%20%7C%2069.5. Multi‑family transactions grew 75 % and land sales edged up slightlyhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/vermont-market-report/market/chittenden-county/#:~:text=product%20mix%20available%20versus%20buyer,from%20buyers%20seeking%20building%20opportunities. * **Addison County.**  Single‑family homes sold for a median of $477,500 (15.1 % gain) and an average of $538,069, with 106 sales (19.1 % increase) and 196 new listingshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/vermont-market-report/market/addison-county/#:~:text=The%20single,increase%20in%20median%20sale%20prices. Condo prices softened to $335,750 (down 12.8 %)https://www.hickokandboardman.com/vermont-market-report/market/addison-county/#:~:text=Condos%20January,31.8. Since 2018 the county’s median price has risen 78 %, and the growth in listings has broadened buyer optionshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/vermont-market-report/market/addison-county/#:~:text=The%20single,increase%20in%20median%20sale%20prices. * **Franklin County.**  The median single‑family price climbed to $410,500 (11.3 %) while sales volume slipped 6.5 % to 186 homeshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/vermont-market-report/market/franklin-county/#:~:text=Single,14.3%2559%20181. Condos averaged $317,500 (1.1 % rise) but only 22 units soldhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/vermont-market-report/market/franklin-county/#:~:text=Condos%20January,14.3%2559%20181. Multi‑family sales shrank to eight buildings, yet the median price increased 9 % to $356,250https://www.hickokandboardman.com/vermont-market-report/market/franklin-county/#:~:text=Multi,reaching%20142%20days%20on%20market. Land sales surged 31.6 % to 25 parcels, though the median price was $89,000https://www.hickokandboardman.com/vermont-market-report/market/franklin-county/#:~:text=The%20land%20market%20in%20Franklin,to%20%2489%2C000. * **Grand Isle County.**  Across the Lake Champlain islands the single‑family median price jumped to $500,000 (25 % gain) with 36 saleshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/vermont-market-report/market/grand-isle-county/#:~:text=Single,%24380%2C000%201%201%20132. The towns of Grand Isle and South Hero posted medians of $665,000 (up 70.5 %) and $689,000 (up 15.7 %) respectively, whereas Isle La Motte’s median fell to $356,500 and North Hero’s to $600,000https://www.hickokandboardman.com/vermont-market-report/market/grand-isle-county/#:~:text=Looking%20at%20the%20town,faster%20transactions%20in%20that%20submarket. * **Lamoille County.**  A median single‑family price of $500,000 represented a slight 0.8 % dip; 97 homes sold (up 3.2 %) and the average price was $710,594https://www.hickokandboardman.com/vermont-market-report/market/lamoille-county/#:~:text=Single,12.5. Condo sales expanded 56 % as buyers sought more affordable options; however the median condo price eased 10 % to $364,950https://www.hickokandboardman.com/vermont-market-report/market/lamoille-county/#:~:text=Condos%20January,12.5. Multi‑family prices surged 145 % to $625,000 despite only eight saleshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/vermont-market-report/market/lamoille-county/#:~:text=%24825%2C008%2C%20suggesting%20that%20high,buildable%20lots%20despite%20fewer%20transactions. * **Washington County.**  The state‑capital region reported a median single‑family price of about $405,000 (4.8 % increase), with 212 homes sold (9.3 % rise) and 398 new listings. Condos fetched a median around $327,900, but sales were down roughly 25 % and days on market more than doubled. Multi‑family properties averaged $577,565 (up 100 %) even though sales declined 15 %. Land sales increased to 38 parcels and new listings climbed 18 %, though prices softened. Special market segments ----------------------- * **Luxury real estate.**  Luxury homes (defined as the top 10 % of the market) commanded a median price of $1,512,500—down about 8 %—and there were 42 sales, 50 % more than in 2024https://www.hickokandboardman.com/vermont-market-report/market/luxury/#:~:text=Median%20Price%20VS%202024%20Units,109. Addison County recorded the highest median luxury price at about $3.2 million, though it saw only one salehttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/vermont-market-report/market/luxury/#:~:text=Median%20Price%20VS%202024%20Units,109. Inventory increased 40 % and days on market averaged 83 days; experts noted two buyer profiles—some buyers refuse to compromise on property size and location while others seek valuehttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/vermont-market-report/market/luxury/#:~:text=As%20of%20mid,on%20record%20for%20the%20region. * **Multi‑family properties.**  Demand for duplexes and apartment buildings rebounded: the median sale price rose to $536,000 (26.9 %), 87 buildings sold (27.9 % increase) and 163 new listings were addedhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/vermont-market-report/market/multi-family/#:~:text=By%20County%20Median%20Price%20VS,141. Chittenden County led the market with 58 sales and a median price of $596,000, while Washington County’s median was $320,000 with 17 saleshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/vermont-market-report/market/multi-family/#:~:text=Chittenden%20County%20%20remains%20the,but%20posted%20moderate%20price%20appreciation. Franklin County recorded eight sales (down 27 %); Lamoille County had the highest median price at $625,000https://www.hickokandboardman.com/vermont-market-report/market/multi-family/#:~:text=Chittenden%20County%20%20remains%20the,but%20posted%20moderate%20price%20appreciation. * **Rental market.**  Chittenden County saw 824 new apartments completed in 2024—the most since 2000—which pushed the vacancy rate from 1.2 % in June to 3.6 % in December (annual average 2.4 %)https://www.hickokandboardman.com/vermont-market-report/market/rental/#:~:text=In%202024%2C%20824%20new%20apartments,quickly%20than%20in%20past%20years. South Burlington delivered 422 units and Burlington added 287, with 115 units in other towns and 364 built by UVM and its health networkhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/vermont-market-report/market/rental/#:~:text=In%202024%2C%20824%20new%20apartments,quickly%20than%20in%20past%20years. About 563 more apartments are projected for 2025, mainly in South Burlington and Essex/Essex Junctionhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/vermont-market-report/market/rental/#:~:text=In%202024%2C%20824%20new%20apartments,quickly%20than%20in%20past%20years. * **Land sales.**  The median price for buildable land across the five counties was $141,000—about 8.1 % lower than the prior year—and the average price was $183,952 (down 33.65 %)https://www.hickokandboardman.com/vermont-market-report/market/land/#:~:text=By%20County%20Median%20Price%20VS,9.7%25131. Sales increased 3.6 % to 116 parcels and new listings rose 9.6 %https://www.hickokandboardman.com/vermont-market-report/market/land/#:~:text=By%20County%20Median%20Price%20VS,9.7%25131. Chittenden County had the highest median at $250,000 with 25 sales (8.7 % increase); Franklin County’s median was $89,000 but sales climbed 31.6 %https://www.hickokandboardman.com/vermont-market-report/market/land/#:~:text=By%20County%20Median%20Price%20VS,9.7%25131. Washington County recorded the most sales (38) even though its median price fell 26 %https://www.hickokandboardman.com/vermont-market-report/market/land/#:~:text=Looking%20at%20historical%20context%2C%202025%E2%80%99s,builds%2C%20especially%20as%20%2032. Lamoille County’s median grew 36 % to $120,000 despite fewer saleshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/vermont-market-report/market/land/#:~:text=Looking%20at%20historical%20context%2C%202025%E2%80%99s,builds%2C%20especially%20as%20%2032. County community profiles ------------------------- * **Grand Isle County (Lake Champlain Islands).**  An 80‑square‑mile county with more shoreline than anywhere else in Vermont, Grand Isle offers boating, sailing, ice fishing, camping and golfhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/grand-isle-county/#:~:text=,Vermont. The long growing season supports orchards, vineyards and farmers markets, and scenic roads give views of the Adirondacks and Green Mountainshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/grand-isle-county/#:~:text=,Vermont. Attractions include Snow Farm Vineyard, Alburgh Dunes and Knight Point state parks, the Hyde Log Cabin and local inns and restaurantshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/grand-isle-county/#:~:text=,Vermont. High‑school students can attend schools in neighboring counties or private schools through a tuition programhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/grand-isle-county/#:~:text=,Vermont. * **Franklin County.**  Known for dairy farms, maple syrup and rolling countryside, Franklin County hosts events like Franklin County Field Days and the Maple Festivalhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/franklin-county/#:~:text=Franklin%20County%C2%A0is%20Vermont%E2%80%99s%20northern%20treasure,represent%20and%20celebrate%20Vermont%E2%80%99s%20heritage. Recreation ranges from hiking trails, lakes and state parks to the 26‑mile Missisquoi Valley Rail Trailhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/franklin-county/#:~:text=Franklin%20County%C2%A0is%20Vermont%E2%80%99s%20northern%20treasure,represent%20and%20celebrate%20Vermont%E2%80%99s%20heritage. The county also offers four golf courses, a disc‑golf course, the Hard’ack Recreation Area and parts of the Long Trailhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/franklin-county/#:~:text=Franklin%20County%C2%A0is%20Vermont%E2%80%99s%20northern%20treasure,represent%20and%20celebrate%20Vermont%E2%80%99s%20heritage. Cultural venues include the Enosburg Opera House and the Collins Perley Sports & Fitness Centerhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/franklin-county/#:~:text=Franklin%20County%C2%A0is%20Vermont%E2%80%99s%20northern%20treasure,represent%20and%20celebrate%20Vermont%E2%80%99s%20heritage. * **Chittenden County.**  Home to about 164,000 people in 18 municipalities, Chittenden County is Vermont’s economic hub. Burlington and nearby towns provide urban amenities, while Jericho, Underhill and Westford offer country living and Richmond and Hinesburg deliver small‑town charmhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/chittenden-county/#:~:text=,by%204%20area%20%2036. Residents enjoy parks, golf and boating on Lake Champlain, plus top skiing at Stowe, Smuggler’s Notch and Boltonhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/chittenden-county/#:~:text=,by%204%20area%20%2036. Popular attractions include Church Street Marketplace, Shelburne Museum, the Flynn Center for the Performing Arts and the ECHO Leahy Center; farmers markets, breweries, wineries and major shopping centers complement the lifestylehttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/chittenden-county/#:~:text=Country%20Living%20in%20Westford%2C%20Jericho%2C,Underhill%2C%20and%20Huntington. * **Lamoille County.**  With roughly 24,000 residents in 16 towns, Lamoille County is a mountain paradise anchored by Stowe Mountain Resort and Smuggler’s Notchhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/lamoille-county/#:~:text=Perhaps%20most%20known%20for%20its,Hyde%20Park%2C%20Johnson%2C%20Morristown%2C%20and%C2%A0Stowe. The area provides year‑round recreation—hiking, biking, skiing and golf—and the Lamoille River offers 85 miles of fly‑fishing and canoeinghttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/lamoille-county/#:~:text=Perhaps%20most%20known%20for%20its,Hyde%20Park%2C%20Johnson%2C%20Morristown%2C%20and%C2%A0Stowe. * **Addison County.**  Stretching across the lower Champlain Valley, Addison County features rolling farmland, woodlands and rivers. Residents enjoy swimming holes, hiking, camping, cross‑country skiing and downhill skiing at the Middlebury College Snow Bowlhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/addison-county/#:~:text=Addison%20County%20%C2%A0is%20situated%20in,Rivers%2C%20and%20by%20%2021. The county hosts craft breweries, the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum, Henry Sheldon Museum and five covered bridges, and is home to Middlebury College and the Addison County Fairhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/addison-county/#:~:text=Middlebury%20College%2C%20one%20of%20the,Mahaney%20Center%20for%20the%20Arts. * **Washington County.**  Central Vermont’s Washington County combines tourism, agriculture, granite and governmenthttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/washington-county/#:~:text=Located%20in%20the%20center%20part,also%20runs%20daily%20through%20Montpelier. Major employers include Ben & Jerry’s in Waterbury, Cabot Creamery in Cabot and Rock of Ages in Barrehttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/washington-county/#:~:text=Located%20in%20the%20center%20part,also%20runs%20daily%20through%20Montpelier. Montpelier, the state capital, and the city of Barre lie within the county, which is easily accessed via Interstate 89 and Amtrakhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/washington-county/#:~:text=Located%20in%20the%20center%20part,also%20runs%20daily%20through%20Montpelier. Town and city community guides ------------------------------ * **St Albans (Franklin County).**  Home to roughly 7,000 residents with a median home price around $375,000, St Albans sits on Lake Champlain and has become one of Vermont’s fastest‑growing communitieshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/franklin-county/st-albans/#:~:text=St,minute%20drive%20on%20interstate%2089. The Northwest Farmers Market and the Vermont Maple Festival draw visitors, while cultural venues such as the St Albans Museum and local concert series enrich community lifehttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/franklin-county/st-albans/#:~:text=St,minute%20drive%20on%20interstate%2089. The Hard’ack Recreation Area offers swimming, skiing and mountain‑biking, and the Missisquoi Valley Rail Trail spans 26.4 mileshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/franklin-county/st-albans/#:~:text=St,minute%20drive%20on%20interstate%2089. Dining highlights include Mill River Brewing, Jeff’s Maine Seafood and Twiggs gastropubhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/franklin-county/st-albans/#:~:text=DINING. * **Montgomery (Franklin County).**  A Northern Vermont town of about 1,200 people with a median home price near $370,000, Montgomery attracts outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors hike and ski at Hazen’s Notch, camp and swim at Lake Carmi and paddle the Missisquoi and Trout Rivershttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/franklin-county/montgomery-vermont/#:~:text=Montgomery%20%20is%20located%20in,Phineas%20Swann%20Inn%20and%20Spa. The town boasts seven covered bridges, proximity to Jay Peak Resort and arts venues like the Montgomery Center for the Artshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/franklin-county/montgomery-vermont/#:~:text=Montgomery%20%20is%20located%20in,Phineas%20Swann%20Inn%20and%20Spa. Dining ranges from the Belfry to Bernie’s Restaurant and the Snow Shoe Lodge & Pubhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/franklin-county/montgomery-vermont/#:~:text=Montgomery%20%20is%20located%20in,Phineas%20Swann%20Inn%20and%20Spa. * **Bolton (Chittenden County).**  With a population around 1,300 and a median home price about $526,000, Bolton is a mountainous community bisected by the Winooski Riverhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/chittenden-county/bolton-vermont/#:~:text=Bolton%20%20is%20a%20rocky,you%20have%20a%20%2019. The Long Trail passes through town and West Bolton Golf Club, Bolton Valley Resort and the Catamount Trail provide hiking, biking, skiing and disc‑golf opportunitieshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/chittenden-county/bolton-vermont/#:~:text=Bolton%20%20is%20a%20rocky,you%20have%20a%20%2019. Locals cool off at the Bolton Potholes swimming holes and enjoy a quiet, tight‑knit atmospherehttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/chittenden-county/bolton-vermont/#:~:text=A%20popular%20summer%20recreation%20area,water%20quality%20and%20recreation%20safety. * **Charlotte (Chittenden County).**  About 3,900 people live in Charlotte, where the median home price approaches $925,000https://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/chittenden-county/charlotte-vermont/#:~:text=Charlotte%20%C2%A0is%20a%20small%20town,Lake%20Champlain%20to%20Essex%2C%20NY. The town sits on Lake Champlain and is surrounded by farms, orchards and vineyards; it also hosts one of the oldest ferry lines across the lakehttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/chittenden-county/charlotte-vermont/#:~:text=Charlotte%20%C2%A0is%20a%20small%20town,Lake%20Champlain%20to%20Essex%2C%20NY. Residents enjoy the Charlotte town beach, Mount Philo State Park, disc‑golf at Charlotte Beach and events at the Old Lanternhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/chittenden-county/charlotte-vermont/#:~:text=RECREATION. Local attractions include Sweet Roots Farm, the Vermont Flannel Company, Shelburne Museum, Vermont Teddy Bear Factory and the Flynn Theater in nearby Burlingtonhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/chittenden-county/charlotte-vermont/#:~:text=Charlotte%20%C2%A0is%20a%20small%20town,Lake%20Champlain%20to%20Essex%2C%20NYhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/chittenden-county/charlotte-vermont/#:~:text=RECREATION. * **Colchester (Chittenden County).**  Approximately 17,600 residents enjoy lakefront living just north of Burlingtonhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/chittenden-county/colchester-vermont/#:~:text=. The town is bounded by the Lamoille River, Winooski River and Lake Champlain and features Marble Island and Malletts Bay marinahttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/chittenden-county/colchester-vermont/#:~:text=. Recreation includes miles of bike paths, the Colchester Causeway across Lake Champlain, boating, fishing and ice‑fishinghttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/chittenden-county/colchester-vermont/#:~:text=. Family activities include the historic Sunset Drive‑in, Saint Michael’s College Playhouse and Sam Mazza’s Farm Market’s fall festivalhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/chittenden-county/colchester-vermont/#:~:text=Things%20to%20do%20in%20Colchester,Vermont. * **Shelburne (Chittenden County).**  This New England town of about 7,700 people has a median home price near $743,000 and offers lakeside living near Burlingtonhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/chittenden-county/shelburne-vermont/#:~:text=Shelburne%20%C2%A0is%20a%20beautiful%20New,and%20visitors%20cherish%20the%20most. Recreational assets include Shelburne Bay Park, the Shelburne Marina and a robust recreation program for all ageshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/chittenden-county/shelburne-vermont/#:~:text=Shelburne%20%C2%A0is%20a%20beautiful%20New,and%20visitors%20cherish%20the%20most. Attractions such as the Shelburne Museum, Shelburne Farms, Shelburne Country Store, Shelburne Orchards, Shelburne Vineyards and the Vermont Teddy Bear Company highlight local history and culturehttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/chittenden-county/shelburne-vermont/#:~:text=Shelburne%20%C2%A0is%20a%20beautiful%20New,and%20visitors%20cherish%20the%20mosthttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/chittenden-county/shelburne-vermont/#:~:text=Shelburne%20Museum%2C%20located%20in%20the,room%20accommodations%20and%20dining%20experiences. Annual events include the Shelburne Farmers Market, summer concert series at Shelburne Farms and the Shelburne Day celebrationhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/chittenden-county/shelburne-vermont/#:~:text=Shelburne%20Museum%2C%20located%20in%20the,room%20accommodations%20and%20dining%20experiences. * **South Burlington (Chittenden County).**  Encompassing about 21,500 residents, South Burlington offers suburban comfort with urban conveniences and award‑winning schoolshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/chittenden-county/south-burlington-vermont/#:~:text=Why%20Live%20in%20South%20Burlington%2C,VT. The city is recognized as Vermont’s #1 Sports Town and one of America’s top towns for familieshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/chittenden-county/south-burlington-vermont/#:~:text=Why%20Live%20in%20South%20Burlington%2C,VT. A new City Center project aims to create walkable neighborhoods and preserve open space, while businesses like BETA Technologies and OnLogic drive innovationhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/chittenden-county/south-burlington-vermont/#:~:text=Recreation%20in%20South%20Burlington%20Vermont. Residents enjoy miles of bike paths, a golf course, tennis courts, parks, Red Rocks Park and Veterans Memorial Park; arts venues include Higher Groundhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/chittenden-county/south-burlington-vermont/#:~:text=Why%20Live%20in%20South%20Burlington%2C,VT. Shopping ranges from the University Mall to local favorites like Al’s French Fryshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/chittenden-county/south-burlington-vermont/#:~:text=Recreation%20in%20South%20Burlington%20Vermont. * **Cambridge/Jeffersonville (Lamoille County).**  This area of about 3,800 people features small‑town charm and access to the 93‑mile Lamoille Valley Rail Trailhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/lamoille-county/cambridge-jeffersonville-vermont/#:~:text=Cambridge%2FJeffersonville%2C%20a%20village%20located%20within,knit%20atmosphere. Outdoor enthusiasts hike the Sterling Pond Trail and Mount Mansfield’s Hellbrook Trail and enjoy year‑round activities at Smuggler’s Notch Resorthttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/lamoille-county/cambridge-jeffersonville-vermont/#:~:text=Cambridge%2FJeffersonville%2C%20a%20village%20located%20within,knit%20atmosphere. Visitors stop at Smugglers’ Notch Distillery, local art galleries and murals, Golden Dog Farm and the Vermont Maple Outlethttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/lamoille-county/cambridge-jeffersonville-vermont/#:~:text=Cambridge%2FJeffersonville%2C%20a%20village%20located%20within,knit%20atmosphere. Dining includes The Family Table, Martell’s at the Red Fox, Burger Barn, Espresso on Main and Boyden Valley Wineryhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/lamoille-county/cambridge-jeffersonville-vermont/#:~:text=Cambridge%2FJeffersonville%2C%20a%20village%20located%20within,knit%20atmosphere. * **Stowe (Lamoille County).**  With about 5,200 residents and a median home price around $1.3 million, Stowe is known as the “Ski Capital of the East”https://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/lamoille-county/stowe-vermont/#:~:text=Stowe%20is%20picturesque%20New%20England,around%20the%20area%20when%20visiting. Stowe Mountain Resort and Spruce Peak offer 116 ski trails and year‑round hiking, biking and zip‑lining; visitors can reach Mt. Mansfield via toll road or gondolahttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/lamoille-county/stowe-vermont/#:~:text=Stowe%20is%20picturesque%20New%20England,around%20the%20area%20when%20visiting. The town hosts Spruce Peak Arts performances, snowmobile tours, unique shops (Stowe Mercantile, Shaw’s General Store, Remarkable Things) and acclaimed eateries such as The Bench, Piecasso and Doc Pondshttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/lamoille-county/stowe-vermont/#:~:text=Stowe%20is%20picturesque%20New%20England,around%20the%20area%20when%20visiting. The Alchemist brewery, Von Trapp Brewing Bierhall and Stowe Cider attract beer lovershttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/lamoille-county/stowe-vermont/#:~:text=Stowe%20is%20picturesque%20New%20England,around%20the%20area%20when%20visiting. * **Bristol (Addison County).**  Home to around 3,800 residents with a median home price near $395,000, Bristol is nestled in the foothills of the Green Mountain National Forest. Residents swim at Bartlett Falls, hike the Mount Abraham section of the Long Trail and ski nearby resorts such as Sugarbush and Mad River Glen. Local favorites include Cubber’s pizza, the Bobcat Cafe & Brewery, Art on Main gallery, the Bristol Farmers Market and annual festivals like the Harvest Festival and Pocock Rocks Music Festival. * **Middlebury (Addison County).**  A town of about 9,200 with a median home price around $435,000, Middlebury sits along the Otter Creek River and hosts Middlebury College. Visitors browse the farmers market, tour the UVM Morgan Horse Farm and ski at the Middlebury Snowbowl. Historic and cultural sites include the Henry Sheldon Museum and the Robert Frost Interpretive Trail; the Town Hall Theater offers performances and a film festival. Downtown shops such as Sweet Cecily and the Vermont Book Shop and restaurants like Fire & Ice, Rosie’s and Two Brothers Tavern round out the scene. * **Vergennes (Addison County).**  Vermont’s smallest city (population ~2,600) features a historic downtown and a median home price around $405,000https://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/addison-county/vergennes-vermont/#:~:text=Vergennes%20%20is%20located%20in,other%20stops%20along%20the%20way. Residents swim at Vergennes Falls Park and hike Snake and Buck Mountains; Basin Harbor Resort offers golf, boating and recreation on Lake Champlainhttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/addison-county/vergennes-vermont/#:~:text=Vergennes%20%20is%20located%20in,other%20stops%20along%20the%20way. Visitors explore 42 historic sites along Main Street, the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum and the Vergennes Opera House and shop at boutiques like Linda’s Apparel and Lily’s Boutiquehttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/addison-county/vergennes-vermont/#:~:text=Vergennes%20%20is%20located%20in,other%20stops%20along%20the%20way. Dining options include the Black Sheep Bistro, Three Squares Café and Park Squeezehttps://www.hickokandboardman.com/moving-to-vermont/communities/addison-county/vergennes-vermont/#:~:text=Vergennes%20%20is%20located%20in,other%20stops%20along%20the%20way. * **Montpelier (Washington County).**  Vermont’s capital city of about 8,100 people has a median home price near $475,000. Landmarks include the golden‑domed State House; festivals such as the Montpelier Art Walk, Dog River Festival and Taste of Montpelier foster community. Attractions include Lost Nation Theatre, Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks, the Vermont History Museum and Capital City Theater. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy Hubbard Park’s 200 acres, North Branch River Park and Wrightsville Reservoir; dining ranges from Sarducci’s and Three Penny Taproom to Oakes & Evelyn and Bar Hill Distillery. * **Waterbury (Washington County).**  Located along Interstate 89 with about 5,300 residents and a median home price near $650,000, Waterbury offers easy access to Mount Mansfield and Camel’s Hump for hiking and skiing. The Waterbury Reservoir supports fishing, boating and swimming, and the Recreation Center provides a pool, tennis courts and an ice rink. Visitors tour the Ben & Jerry’s factory and Cold Hollow Cider Mill, browse art at The Phoenix gallery and attend the Waterbury Arts Fest. Shopping and dining options include the Cabot Creamery Store, Stowe Street Emporium, Michael’s on the Hill, Prohibition Pig and The Reservoir restaurant. * **Barre (Washington County).**  Known as the “Granite Center of the World,” Barre has about 16,400 residents and a median home price around $320,000. Granite attractions include tours of the Rock of Ages quarry, the Vermont Granite Museum and a downtown art walk featuring stone sculptures. Other activities include performances at the Barre Opera House, classes at Studio Place Arts and races at Thunder Road Speedbowl. Visitors explore shops and restaurants downtown; notable eateries are Cornerstone Pub & Kitchen, Melted Cheese Grilled Cheese & Taproom and Ladder 1 Grill.