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.

Few holidays bring communities together quite like the Fourth of July. Across Chittenden County, Independence Day is celebrated with fireworks, parades, live music, family activities, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the beautiful Vermont summer. Whether you're looking for a lively waterfront celebration, a small-town parade, or an evening under the stars watching fireworks, there's something for everyone.

If you're still deciding how to spend the holiday, here are some of the best places to celebrate the Fourth of July around Chittenden County.

Burlington Waterfront

One of the largest and most popular Independence Day celebrations in Vermont takes place along Burlington's Waterfront. Every year, thousands gather at Waterfront Park to enjoy live entertainment, food vendors, family activities, and spectacular views of Lake Champlain.

The highlight of the evening is the fireworks display over the lake. Watching the fireworks reflect off the water with the Adirondack Mountains in the background creates one of Vermont's most memorable Fourth of July experiences.

If you're planning to attend, consider arriving early to find parking and secure a good viewing spot. Bringing lawn chairs or a blanket makes for a comfortable evening while you enjoy the festivities.

Essex Junction

Essex Junction is another favorite destination for families during the holiday. The Champlain Valley Exposition typically hosts an evening filled with entertainment, carnival rides, games, food vendors, and fireworks.

The atmosphere is family-friendly and offers something for all ages. Children can enjoy the rides and activities while adults take advantage of the live music and food before gathering for the fireworks finale.

Colchester

If you're looking for a classic hometown celebration, Colchester offers a full day of Fourth of July fun. The community parade is a longtime tradition that brings together local organizations, businesses, and residents for a festive morning.

Throughout the day, families can enjoy community events before ending the evening with fireworks. The welcoming atmosphere makes Colchester a wonderful place to celebrate with neighbors and friends.

Williston

Williston continues to host one of Chittenden County's favorite community celebrations. The day often includes a parade, family activities, local food vendors, and an evening fireworks display.

It's a great option for anyone looking for a relaxed celebration while still enjoying all the excitement that comes with Independence Day.

Hinesburg

For those who appreciate small-town charm, Hinesburg offers a traditional Vermont Fourth of July celebration. The community gathers for a parade featuring local organizations, classic cars, community groups, and plenty of patriotic spirit.

The celebration continues throughout the day with food, music, family activities, and fireworks after sunset. It's an excellent choice for families looking for a more laid-back holiday experience.

Shelburne

Shelburne provides a unique way to celebrate Independence Day with the Vermont Symphony Orchestra's annual performance at the Shelburne Museum. Guests can bring blankets and picnic dinners while enjoying live music on the museum grounds before fireworks light up the night sky.

The combination of music, beautiful scenery, and fireworks creates an unforgettable summer evening.

Enjoy Vermont's Small-Town Celebrations

One of the things that makes Vermont so special is the number of local communities that come together to celebrate the Fourth of July. Nearly every town puts its own spin on the holiday with parades, barbecues, live music, road races, and community gatherings.

These events provide the perfect opportunity to support local businesses, reconnect with neighbors, and enjoy everything that makes Vermont communities so unique.

Tips for Planning Your Day

The Fourth of July is one of the busiest weekends of the summer, so planning ahead can make your day much more enjoyable.

Arrive early if you're attending fireworks or a parade, as parking fills quickly. Bring sunscreen, water, folding chairs, and blankets if you plan to spend the day outdoors. If you're attending a fireworks show, be prepared for heavier traffic when the event ends.

If you're celebrating near Lake Champlain, remember that evenings by the water can become cooler after sunset, so bringing a light jacket is always a good idea.

Celebrate Safely

As exciting as the holiday is, safety should always come first. Follow local guidelines regarding fireworks, stay hydrated during the day, and designate a driver if you'll be attending celebrations with friends and family.

Respecting local parks and public spaces by cleaning up after yourself helps keep Vermont beautiful for everyone to enjoy.

Happy Fourth of July!

Whether you're watching fireworks over Lake Champlain, enjoying a hometown parade, listening to live music, or simply spending time with family and friends, the Fourth of July is a wonderful reminder of what makes Vermont communities so special.

From Burlington's bustling waterfront to the welcoming celebrations in Essex Junction, Colchester, Williston, Hinesburg, and Shelburne, there are countless ways to celebrate Independence Day throughout Chittenden County.

Wherever you choose to spend the holiday, we hope you have a safe, relaxing, and memorable Fourth of July. Happy Independence Day from all of us at Geri Reilly Real Estate! 

What Makes Waterfront Properties So Desirable?

There’s something special about life on the water, and few places in the Northeast offer a waterfront lifestyle quite like Lake Champlain. Stretching more than 120 miles between Vermont and New York, Lake Champlain is one of the region’s most treasured natural resources and a defining feature of life in northwestern Vermont.

From stunning sunsets and recreational opportunities to privacy and long-term value, waterfront properties along Lake Champlain continue to be among the most sought-after homes in the state. Whether you're looking for a year-round residence, a seasonal retreat, or simply dreaming about life by the lake, it’s easy to understand why so many buyers are drawn to waterfront living.

Incredible Views Every Day

One of the biggest advantages of owning a waterfront property is the view. Many Lake Champlain homes enjoy panoramic vistas of the water, the Adirondack Mountains, and some of Vermont’s most spectacular sunsets.

Unlike many home features that can be renovated or updated over time, a waterfront view is something truly unique and irreplaceable. Whether you're enjoying a morning coffee on the deck or watching the sun set over the mountains in the evening, the scenery becomes part of your everyday life.

Many homeowners say that the ever-changing views are one of their favorite aspects of living on the lake. Each season brings something different, from vibrant summer sunsets to colorful fall foliage and peaceful winter landscapes.

Direct Access to Outdoor Recreation

Lake Champlain offers endless opportunities for outdoor enjoyment throughout the year. During the warmer months, residents can take advantage of boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, swimming, and sailing right from their own property.

Many waterfront homeowners enjoy the convenience of stepping outside and immediately accessing the lake without needing to travel to a public beach or boat launch. This accessibility allows residents to fully embrace Vermont’s outdoor lifestyle.

Even during the colder months, the lake remains a focal point of the landscape. Ice fishing, winter photography, and simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings make waterfront living appealing throughout all four seasons.

A Sense of Privacy and Escape

One of the reasons waterfront properties are so desirable is the sense of privacy they often provide. Many lakefront homes are located on larger lots or in quieter areas away from busy roads and neighborhoods.

For many buyers, owning a waterfront property offers an opportunity to disconnect from daily stress and enjoy a slower pace of life. The sounds of the water, the open views, and the natural surroundings create a peaceful environment that can be difficult to find elsewhere.

While some waterfront properties are located near vibrant communities like Burlington, Shelburne, and Charlotte, many still offer a level of privacy that feels like a true retreat.

Strong Long-Term Appeal

Waterfront real estate has historically maintained strong demand due to its limited supply. There are only so many properties that can sit directly on the shores of Lake Champlain, making them highly desirable among buyers.

Because waterfront land is finite, these properties often attract interest from a wide range of buyers, including primary homeowners, second-home owners, retirees, and investors. While market conditions can fluctuate, the unique nature of waterfront real estate tends to support long-term value.

For many buyers, a waterfront home is not only a lifestyle purchase but also an investment in a location that remains highly sought after year after year.

Four Seasons of Beauty

One of the unique aspects of Lake Champlain living is the ability to enjoy the lake year-round. While many waterfront destinations are primarily seasonal, Vermont offers four distinct seasons that each bring their own charm.

Spring brings blooming landscapes and the return of boating season. Summer offers warm weather and endless days on the water. Fall transforms the shoreline with vibrant foliage, while winter creates a peaceful and picturesque setting unlike any other.

This year-round appeal makes Lake Champlain waterfront properties especially attractive for those seeking a permanent residence rather than just a vacation home.

Proximity to Vermont’s Best Communities

Many Lake Champlain waterfront homes offer the perfect balance of privacy and convenience. Communities such as Burlington, South Burlington, Shelburne, Charlotte, Colchester, and Grand Isle provide easy access to shopping, dining, healthcare, schools, and local events while still allowing residents to enjoy the benefits of lakefront living.

This combination of natural beauty and accessibility is one of the reasons the area remains so popular with both local and out-of-state buyers.

Is Waterfront Living Right for You?

Owning a waterfront property is about more than just the home itself. It’s about embracing a lifestyle centered around nature, recreation, and some of Vermont’s most beautiful scenery.

Whether you're drawn to the breathtaking sunsets, direct lake access, peaceful surroundings, or long-term value, Lake Champlain offers a unique living experience that few locations can match.

For those dreaming of life on the water, Lake Champlain continues to represent some of the most desirable real estate in Vermont. It’s a place where every season brings new opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, connect with nature, and experience the very best of Vermont living.