Gardening is more than just a hobby. It's a way to connect with nature, nourish your soul, and create a beautiful oasis in your very own yard. Vermont's unique climate and soil conditions provide endless opportunities for garden enthusiasts, whether you're planting colorful perennials or growing fresh vegetables. Geri Reilly Real Estate is excited to explore the world of gardening in Vermont, and we've gathered expert insights and tips to help you create the garden of your dreams.

Three of Vermont's Best Garden Flowers

• Lilac (Syringa vulgaris): A quintessential Vermont favorite, lilac is known for its intoxicating fragrance and beautiful purple blossoms. These hardy shrubs thrive in Vermont's climate, providing a stunning display in late spring. The lilac's history in Vermont is rich, symbolizing renewal and the beautiful simplicity of country living.

• Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia fulgida): These vibrant yellow flowers, adorned with their characteristic dark centers, are a staple in many Vermont gardens. Not only do they add a splash of sunshine to any garden bed, but they are also resilient, drought-tolerant, and attract pollinators like butterflies and bees. They represent the free-spirited and strong character of Vermont's natural beauty.

• Bleeding Heart (Dicentra Spectabilis): Known for their unique heart-shaped flowers, Bleeding Hearts are a captivating addition to Vermont gardens. These perennials are perfect for shaded areas and are usually found blooming in late spring, adding a touch of romance and whimsy to the landscape. They symbolize the deep connection to nature and the sense of wonder that Vermont gardeners embrace.

 

Vermont's Gardening Scene

From the beautiful Green Mountains to the sprawling Champlain Valley, Vermont offers a diverse range of landscapes. The state's four distinct seasons allow for vibrant spring blossoms, lush summer growth, stunning autumn foliage, and a winter wonderland. According to National Geographic's Climate Guide, Vermont's weather conditions provide a variety of options for both native plants and exotic varieties.

Tips for Creating the Perfect Garden

1. Know Your Soil: Understanding your soil type is essential. A report from the USDA can guide you in choosing the right plants for your area. By knowing whether your soil is sandy, clayey, or loamy, you can choose the right plants, fertilizers, and more to create a flourishing garden.

2. Choose Native Plants: Plants native to Vermont not only thrive but also support local wildlife. Check out this guide from the Audubon Society for the best native plants in your region. Choosing native plants can also make gardening more manageable, as they often require less maintenance and are more resistant to local pests and diseases.

3. Sustainable Gardening: Embrace sustainable practices by composting, reducing water use, and avoiding harmful chemicals. The Environmental Protection Agency offers guidelines on composting at home. By following sustainable practices, you are contributing to a healthier planet and creating a garden that aligns with nature.

4. Embrace Seasonal Diversity: Vermont's seasonal changes offer unique gardening opportunities. Explore this article from the Smithsonian to understand how seasonal shifts can influence your garden's design. Whether it's planting bulbs in the fall for spring blooms or growing winter-hardy vegetables, each season brings its unique beauty and challenges.

5. Community Connection: Join local gardening clubs or community gardens. Vermont's strong sense of community makes gardening a social and rewarding experience. By connecting with fellow enthusiasts, you can exchange knowledge, seeds, and friendships, turning gardening into a rich social experience that nurtures both plants and people.

Finding Your Dream Garden with Geri Reilly Real Estate

Having a well-maintained and aesthetically pleasing garden can significantly increase the value of a house, and this impact extends beyond just the aesthetics. You can increase your visual appeal, enjoy the benefits of improved air quality and reap the health and wellness benefits from your environment. A garden that's been professionally landscaped or well-maintained reflects the overall care taken in the property. It creates an image of a home that is loved and looked after, making it more attractive to potential buyers. Homes with appealing gardens often attract more viewings and can even shorten the time a property spends on the market.

Gardening in Vermont offers a rich and rewarding experience that combines beauty, sustainability, and community. With the right knowledge, tools, and passion, you can cultivate a stunning garden that reflects your personal style and love for the environment.

Ready to find the perfect space to grow your dream garden? Explore our current listings at Geri Reilly Real Estate and let us help you plant the seeds for your future in Vermont. Happy gardening!

Owning a home in Vermont is about more than just a place to live—Vermont is a place that's pretty hard to forget once you've been there. It's packed full of amazing landscapes - from the lush green mountains that look like something out of a fairy tale to the dazzling colors of the trees in the fall. And let's not forget the cool, clear lakes that sparkle under the summer sun. It's like a postcard come to life!

From charming colonial homes nestled in vibrant green valleys to modern lakefront properties offering breathtaking views, each home has its unique charm and potential. When you own a house, one of your primary responsibilities, and indeed opportunities, is to continually enhance your home’s potential.

At Geri Reilly Real Estate, we really love Vermont's cool landscapes, towns, and houses - that's why we do what we do! Our passion and mission to showcase the best of what Vermont has to offer, and to provide the best services and support to our clients has remained unchanged throughout the years. So, Whether you're looking to sell or simply seeking to make your living experience more “you”, these insights will help you make the most of your home. 

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Preserving Historical Charm in Colonial Homes and Farmhouses

The Vermont real estate landscape is often characterized by its charming colonial homes, quaint farmhouses, and modern lakefront properties. Each home type, with its unique architectural style and historical context, calls for a different approach to home improvement.

        

For colonial homes and farmhouses, maintaining the property's historical charm while introducing modern conveniences can be a delicate balancing act. Focus on upgrades that preserve the character, such as refinishing original hardwood floors or restoring original fixtures, while improving essentials like electrical, heating, and plumbing systems. Energy efficiency is another factor Vermont buyers are keen on, so consider going solar. You have many options to choose from in Vermont including SunCommon and Vermont Energy, don’t forget to check out the Vermonter's Guide to Residential Solar to ensure you are up to date with the latest tips and policies for a solar installation.

Modern properties, particularly those on Vermont's lakefronts, demand a focus on maximizing the view and outdoor living spaces. Consider deck improvements, landscape gardening, or even the addition of a dock. Inside the home, open-concept living spaces and large windows are highly desirable. Contemporary buyers are also increasingly drawn to smart home features, from thermostats and security systems.

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Quality and Craftsmanship is The Hallmark of Vermont Homes

No matter the style of your Vermont home, any improvement project should prioritize quality. Vermonters are known for their appreciation of craftsmanship and durability. Choose high-quality, long-lasting materials that will withstand Vermont's four-season climate. If a project is beyond your DIY skills, hire a professional contractor known for their workmanship like our affiliates Grinnel Electric, Vermont Stone & Horticulture, or Budget Blinds of Colchester. Additionally, you can take a look at top Vermont contractors known for their workmanship like Haven Design + Building, Patterson and Smith, or  Newschool Builders to name a few from General Contractor Magazine’s Best General Contractors in Vermont list.

        

Navigating Permits and Regulations for Home Improvement

It's worth noting that permits are often required for home improvement projects in Vermont, particularly for structural changes and new construction. Be sure to consult with a local expert or your real estate agent to understand the local regulations and permitting process.

        

Home improvement is not merely about maintaining a property; it's about creating a living space that caters to contemporary needs while respecting Vermont's rich architectural history. With thoughtful upgrades and quality workmanship, homeowners can not only enjoy their improved living spaces but also realize significant returns when it comes time to sell. Every nail, paint stroke, and installed fixture is a step towards increasing the value and appeal of your home in the green mountains.

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The trend of remote work has also made home offices a high-demand feature in Vermont homes. An improvement project that transforms unused space into a quiet, well-equipped home office can significantly increase your property's value. 

When designing a home office, it's crucial to consider the needs of the modern professional. A well-equipped home office should have adequate space for a desk and comfortable chair, sufficient lighting, and access to electrical outlets for charging electronic devices. If possible, try to choose a room with a window, as natural light can help reduce eye strain and boost mood and productivity.

Moreover, it's important to ensure the space is quiet and private, enabling focused work without interruptions. Soundproofing methods, such as installing noise-reducing windows or adding insulation, can be valuable upgrades. Additionally, built-in storage for office supplies, bookshelves for reference materials, and a dedicated spot for a printer or other necessary equipment can transform a standard room into a high-functioning office space.

Learn more about what Vermont real estate has to offer and stay updated on the latest postings and events!

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The Summer Real Estate Market is Heating Up! 

Summer is officially here! It's time to relax by the lake, soak up that sunshine, and take in the beauty Vermont has to offer! However, the weather and outdoor activities aren't the only things that heat up this time of year, the Real Estate market also gets HOT!  Keep reading to see why this market shift happens and what it means for you as a buyer or seller.

 

Sunlight:

The long summer days mean more time for errands & activities before it gets dark.  This added daylight also means more showing availability for buyers and sellers! Instead of rushing home after work because it's dark or cancelling an Open House due to a snowstorm, the daylight and nice weather allow for extra opportunities to see homes.

 

Convenient Time of Year:

School’s out for summer!  It’s more convenient, and preferred, for buyers and sellers to move when children are out of school.  Not to mention, moving those tall bookcases and large sofas is much easier without ice and snow covering the ground!  Let’s not forget that summer is also a great time to move before the hustle & bustle of the holiday season!

 

Summer Beauty:

The flowers are blooming, the grass is green, and the natural light is in abundance.   All these factors help both the curb appeal (outside of the home) and beauty inside the home!  Pro tip for sellers – if you’re planning on listing your home in the summer, plant blubs the previous fall or spring!  Check out all you need to know on how & when to plant here: https://www.gardendesign.com/bulbs/how-to.html 

 

What does this mean for you:

The summer market brings great benefits for both buyers and sellers.  With an influx of inventory, buyers will have more opportunities to find a home.  Sellers will see more serious buyers which can increase interest in their homes and potentially lead to a higher sales price.  However, due to a rise in homes and buyers it can create competition in the market.  Don’t fret though, read up on your local market and reach out to a Real Estate Agent with any questions or interest.  It’s our job to help clients like YOU stay cool during this busy season!