For many people, spring is considered the busiest time to buy a home, but July offers its own unique advantages. With longer days, beautiful weather, and a wide selection of available homes, midsummer can be an excellent time to make your move. Whether you're a first-time buyer, relocating to Vermont, or looking for your forever home, July provides opportunities that are often overlooked.

Here's why buying a home in Vermont during July may be one of the smartest decisions you can make.

Inventory Is Still Strong

One of the biggest advantages of buying in July is that many of the homes listed during the busy spring market are still available, while new listings continue to hit the market throughout the summer.

More inventory means more choices. Instead of feeling limited, buyers often have the opportunity to compare different neighborhoods, home styles, and price points before making a decision.

Having additional options can also help reduce the pressure of feeling like you need to make an offer on the very first home you visit.

Homes Look Their Best

Summer is one of the easiest times to truly appreciate a property's features. Landscaping is in full bloom, gardens are thriving, and outdoor living spaces are fully usable.

Decks, patios, porches, pools, and waterfront access are all on full display during July, allowing buyers to experience the home exactly as they'll enjoy it during Vermont's warmest months.

Natural light is another major advantage. Longer days make it easier to schedule showings after work, while bright sunshine allows buyers to better evaluate the condition of both the home's interior and exterior.

You Can Better Evaluate the Property

Viewing a home during the summer gives buyers the opportunity to inspect details that may be hidden during winter.

You'll be able to evaluate:

• Roof condition
• Exterior siding
• Landscaping
• Drainage around the property
• Outdoor entertaining spaces
• Driveways and walkways
• Waterfront features, if applicable

Seeing the property in full summer conditions can help buyers make a more informed decision.

More Time to Move Before Fall

Buying in July often means closing before school begins and before colder weather arrives.

Families with children appreciate having time to settle into a new home before the school year starts. Others simply enjoy moving during warm weather instead of dealing with snow, ice, or freezing temperatures later in the year.

Getting established before autumn also gives homeowners time to complete projects, meet neighbors, and enjoy their outdoor spaces before winter arrives.

Summer Showcases Vermont Living

Buying a home isn't only about the house itself. It's also about the lifestyle.

July is one of the best months to experience everything Vermont has to offer.

Farmers markets are in full swing.

Lake Champlain is buzzing with boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming.

Outdoor concerts, festivals, and community events take place nearly every weekend.

Restaurants open their patios, hiking trails are fully accessible, and local towns feel more vibrant than ever.

Experiencing these activities firsthand can help buyers determine whether a community truly feels like home.

Competition Can Still Exist

Although spring is often considered the busiest season, desirable homes can still attract multiple offers during July.

Well-maintained properties in sought-after locations continue to sell quickly, especially those with waterfront access, mountain views, or updated interiors.

That's why preparation remains important.

Having mortgage pre-approval in hand, understanding your budget, and working closely with an experienced agent can make all the difference when the right home becomes available.

Vacation Homes Are Easier to Experience

July is one of the best times to shop for lake homes, seasonal properties, and vacation homes.

You'll be able to experience everything these homes have to offer, from lake access and beaches to sunsets over Lake Champlain and nearby recreational opportunities.

Rather than imagining what the property might be like in the summer, you'll get to experience it firsthand.

Sellers Are Motivated

Not every home sells immediately during the spring market.

By July, some sellers may be more motivated to negotiate, especially if they've already found their next home or are hoping to close before the end of summer.

Every situation is different, but buyers may occasionally find opportunities that weren't available earlier in the season.

Work With a Local Expert

Every real estate market is different, and Vermont is no exception.

Understanding neighborhood trends, pricing strategies, inspection considerations, and local communities can make the buying process much smoother.

An experienced local real estate team can help you identify opportunities, develop a competitive offer, and guide you through every step of the transaction.

Make This Summer the Start of Something New

July combines beautiful weather, strong inventory, and the opportunity to experience Vermont at its very best. Whether you're searching for your first home, upgrading to your next one, or hoping to find a peaceful retreat near Lake Champlain, summer is an excellent time to begin your search.

If buying a home is one of your goals this year, don't assume you've missed the market. Some of the best opportunities are still waiting, and July could be the perfect time to find the home you've been looking for.

At Geri Reilly Real Estate, we're here to help you navigate every step of the home buying journey. If you're ready to start your search or simply have questions about the current Vermont market, we'd love to help you find your place to call home.