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Freedom and Unity. Vermont, naturally!

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Home Mortgage Rates in Vermont

Sleepy Hollow farm near Woodstock, Vermont.

The state of Vermont is located in the northeastern United States in the New England area. This small state was ranked as one of the safest states in the nation, and it is the leading producer of Maple Syrup. This state is the second-smallest state by its population, and it is also the sixth smallest state by total land area in the nation. Originally founded as the Vermont Republic in 1777, the Republic lasted for fourteen years. Vermont also became the fourteenth state to join the Union and the first state after the original thirteen colonies. It is also one of only four states that can claim to previously  be a sovereign state.

Vermont is home to several small cities, and it has a diverse economy. Every small city and town has an identity, and this is what people like. You can choose to live in one of the cities or away in one of the smaller towns. The tight-knit communities appeal to people, and a lot of them are a short drive away from a larger city so they can commute to work easier. Vermont as a whole has a more laid back feel that people seem to like. You'll get a small town vibe from the state, with friendly people no matter where you choose to live. This same small town feel attracts many tourists each year.

Vermont is one of the smaller states by land mass in the United States. In fact, it is ranked 43rd in the United States. Not only is it one of the smallest by land mass, Vermont is second only to Wyoming as the least populated state in the country. Vermont has a median income of $60,837 and has a large population of college educated individuals. Most of its residents are employed in government, education, real estate and health care.

Maple syrup and wine are two of the great commodities produced in the area. Fourteen wineries are available in the area and a quarter of the country’s maple syrup is produced in Vermont.

People move to Vermont for several reasons. The state was one of the first to legalize gay marriage, and it has the second-largest LGBT population in the nation. It is also home to several large companies, and it has a very government-based economy which draws people looking for long-term employment with the opportunity to advance in their careers. Additionally, Vermont is home to several top-ranked colleges and universities that draws college-aged people. The change of lifestyle also draws people as the state is full of gorgeous scenery, a slower pace, and a more laid-back mindset.

People also move from Vermont for several good reasons. Although the economy is diverse, it hasn't shown much growth over the past few years, and this can drive people away in search of jobs. People also want to experience the faster-paced life they'll find in bigger cities, so they leave. The cost of living is higher in Vermont as well, and this may drive people away once they've graduated or if they simply want a change. Vermont also has one of the top ten highest property taxes rates in the national, and this can lead people to leave.

People who are at the end of their careers or people who have spent the majority of their lives in bigger cities and wanted a change find Vermont very attractive. Also, people who like year-round outdoor recreational activities like to live in this state as it has several things to do year-round thanks to the surrounding hills, dense forests, and more rural areas. College kids may also find the area attractive as there are several top-ranked colleges here for them to attend.

Current Real Estate Trends

Vermont real estate prices are slightly higher than the national average. Homes, in some instances, may cost more than comparable homes in other parts of the nation with equivalent square footage and more amenities.

Vermont was one state that survived very well throughout the period of the real estate market collapse. The second quarter of 2006 was when the market first began to show slight signs that it was in trouble. The market had previously been on a steady rise, and at this point, it leveled out to a long plateau and gradually stopped rising. This plateau continued until the first quarter of 2008 when it climbed into a slight peak. This peak fell away, and the market began on a very gradual descent. There was another slight peak in the first quarter of 2009, but this leveled off and kept dropping quickly.

The fourth quarter of 2010 saw the market go into another slight peak before dropping to the lowest point. The second quarter of 2011 brought the lowest point which quickly rebounded into another plateau. The plateau ended in the first quarter of 2013, and the market experienced a very short drop. This drop also rebounded quickly, and the market resumed its very gradual climb. The third quarter of 2013 brought another slight peak and a drop that again recovered quickly. This pattern continued with the last peak and drop happening in the third and fourth quarters of 2016. As of the second quarter of 2017, the housing market was above its pre-crash levels.

The Burlington-South Burlington Meto also fared well during the housing market collapse. However, this Metro's housing market didn't really experience warning signs that the market was in trouble until the first quarter of 2007 when it went from a gradual climb to a peak that dropped off into a plateau. The second to the fourth quarter of 2007 stayed at a low plateau before rising into another slight peak in the first quarter of 2008. After this peak, the market began a gradual descent that was very similar to Vermont's real estate market as a whole. It had a slight peak in the first quarter of 2009 that dropped to a low plateau. This plateau continued until the market hit the lowest point in the first quarter of 2011.

Once the lowest point came, the market went on a very gradual rise. From the fourth quarter of 2011 until the first quarter of 2014, the market didn't rise or fall significantly. It stayed around the same prices until 2014 came. Once 2014 came, the market spent the first half on a peak that dropped back down by the end of 2014. 2015 had a similar pattern with an early rise and a slight plateau that dropped slightly by the end of the year. The first three quarters of 2016 were spent on a steady rise that hit a plateau for the first half of 2017. The market is currently on the rise, and the numbers have been higher than they were prior to the housing market collapse since the first quarter of 2015.

Historic Real Estate Trends

As for historical real estate trends, both the state of Vermont and the Burlington-South Burlington Metro had very similar experiences. The start of the 1990s brought a period of stability with no significant rises or falls, and this lasted uninterruptedly until the first quarter of 1994 when the market saw a very slight rise. This dropped away quickly, and the market fell slightly during the first quarter of 1995. This rebounded into another peak during the first quarter of 1996. This peak fell away as well, and the rest of 1996 was spent on a very slight downward pattern. During 1997 and 1998, the market saw two slight peaks and falls that leveled out until the third quarter of 1998.

Once 1998 came around, the market started to climb. This steady climb lasted through the start of the 2000s until the third quarter of 2002 when the market began to lag. While it was still moving upwards, it was doing so at a much slower pace. This continued until the end of 2003 when the market went into a peak. This peak was followed by another lag that peaked again in the third quarter of 2004. This peak leveled off into a more gradual climb that continued until the market began showing signs of trouble during the second quarter of 2006.

Homeownership across the state has ranged between 68% and 75% over the past 30 years. For most of the 1990s it ranged tightly between 69% to 70%, but after falling to 68.7% in 2000 ownership grew to 74.2% by 2005. In 2008 ownership dipped to 72.8%, but reached a high of 74.6% in 2011. In 2016 ownership stood at 71.3% compared to a national average of 63.4%.

Places to Live

Metropolitan Areas

VT Rank Rank Metropolitan Area 2016 Pop 2010 Pop Change % △
1 202 Burlington-South Burlington 217,365 211,261 6,104 2.89%
2 206 Claremont-Lebanon, NH-VT Micro Area 216,307 218,466 -2,159 -0.99%
3 532 Rutland 59,310 61,642 -2,332 -3.78%
4 535 Barre 58,504 59,534 -1,030 -1.73%
5 720 Berlin, NH-VT Micro Area 38,215 39,361 -1,146 -2.91%
6 752 Bennington 36,191 37,125 -934 -2.52%

Popular Cities in Vermont

Vermont's cities have all experienced growth over the past few years, but they still remain smaller than the average size. These cities all have distinct personalities that draw people to them, and they maintain their smaller town feel that many people find desirable.

Burlington

Church Street in Downtown Burlington, Vermont.

Vermont's biggest city is Burlington, and it is classified as a regional college town with many younger people flocking here from May to September. The population as of 2016 was 42,260 people, and it is part of the bigger Burlington-South Burlington Metro that has a population of 217,365 people. This city became the first city in the nation to be run entirely by renewable energy. Burlington has the nickname of “The Queen City,” and it was ranked as one of the prettiest cities in the United States.

Burlington has a humid continental climate, and this means that the city experiences very cold, snowy winters and very humid, hot summers. As Burlington is located close to Lake Champlain, this accounts for some of the harsher winter storms that drop over a foot of snow. June is usually the hottest month of the year with temperatures in the 80s and very high humidity. January is typically the coldest month with temperatures around the freezing mark.

The city has a history of supporting various art and music scenes, and this continues today. The South End Art Hop showcases over 600 artists each year with over 100 different sites scattered throughout Burlington. The Dragon Boat Festival takes place each year and it draws over 2,000 participants. The Vermont International Film Festival is also held here, and tourists can visit the Ethan Allen Homestead Museum. The Church Street Marketplace has been named one of the Great Public Spaces in America, and this four-block market features dozens of local vendors and art and craft exhibits.

Burlington is a college town, and it is home to several universities and colleges, as well as a large public school district. The Burlington School District serves this city, and it has over 5,000 students enrolled. Students can choose to attend the University of Vermont or Champlain College. Additionally, this city is home to one of the most selective medical schools in the nation, the UVM College of Medicine. There are also several satellite campuses and technical colleges available.

The economy in this city is very diverse, and the biggest employer is currently the UVM College of Medicine with 1,900 staff members. The second-biggest employer in this city is the Burlington School District with over 1,000 staff. Finally, the employer that rounds of the top three biggest in the city is from the government sector, and the Air National Guard employs over 900 staff.

Burlington has an unemployment rate that is currently well below the national average, but this is tempered slightly as there has been very slight job loss in the past year. The economy is looking to grow and strengthen further over the next ten years as Burlington is estimated to add around 36% more jobs.

The real estate in Burlington is a mixture of country style homes and modern homes. The prices range from low $100s to $600K. Some have lake and garden views, contemporary features, such as granite counter tops, glass showers, tile inlays, and bamboo floors. This city has a current local median home price of $291,300, and this averages out to a price per square foot of $109. These prices have increased by 5% in the past year, and they're on track to increase by another 1.3% in the next year. The local median home price for the Burlington-South Burlington Metro is $334,950, and this averages out to around $140 per square foot.

South Burlington

Lake Champlain near Burlington & South Burlington.

South Burlington is Vermont's third-biggest city with a population of 18,971. It is part of the Burlington-South Burlington Metro, and the total population of these areas is 217,365 as of 2016. This city was organized around 1785, and the unincorporated village was founded by the city in 1865. This was the same year that Burlington and South Burlington were split, and South Burlington was named a city in 1971.

The local economy is very diverse, and it has the headquarters of the ice cream company Ben and Jerry's, as well as large influences from the retail and government sectors. Transportation, healthcare, and education help to balance out the economy, and this resulted in a very stable local economy. It also results in several different job areas to choose from, and they go from minimum wage to higher-paying positions.

South Burlington is a city with a humid continental climate zone. This means that the city routinely experiences very humid weather with high temperatures in the summer months with very cold, wet winter months. Springtime is particular sees a high amount of rainfall with very muddy conditions. June and July are the hottest months during the summer with temperatures in the 80s. January and February are the coldest winter months, and they have temperatures in the mid-20s.

The University Mall is found in South Burlington, and this is the largest shopping center in the state of Vermont. If you like being outdoors, Red Rocks Park offers several quality walking trails that wind along Lake Champlain. The Shelburne Museum is another popular tourist attraction that features 39 large, open-air buildings and exhibits.

There are no colleges or universities located in South Burlington. However, the city is served by the Burlington School District. This 5,000 student district is home to over fifteen different schools ranging from elementary schools to high schools with a few alternative and private schools as well.

The largest employer in South Burlington reflects the service-based economy, and it is the University Mall with around 1,600 employees. The second-biggest employer in the city is the headquarters of the Ben and Jerry's ice cream company with 1,200 employees. Finally, the employer who claims the third-biggest spot is the Burlington International Airport with 900 employees.

The unemployment rate in South Burlington is way below the national average, and this leads to a strong economy. However, the city hasn't had job growth in the past year, and it has lost a small fraction of its local jobs. Over the next decade, South Burlington is estimating that it'll add 37% more jobs to strengthen the current local economy.

This city has a local median home price of $254,900, and this figure averages out to around $196 per square foot. These numbers have experienced an increase over the past year of 3.4%, and they're projected to increase another 1.2% during the coming year. The local median home price for the Burlington-South Burlington Metro is $334,950, and this averages out to around $140 per square foot.

Essex

Essex claims the second-biggest city in Vermont title with 21,199 people. Essex is home to several large employers and Vermont's busiest Amtrak station. This city was named after the Earl of Essex, and it was incorporated in 1763. Originally, Essex was incorporated to act as a provider of sidewalks, sewers, and water to the local rural villages and towns.

Essex's economy is supported by several large companies with help from other sectors like education, transportation, government, healthcare, and retail. All of these sectors work together to give Essex a very stable economy with a broad range of jobs that draw several people to the area each year.

Essex also has a humid continental climate zone with very hot summers and very cold winters. The humidity is high year-round, and the rainfall is spread out in the spring and summer months with the spring receiving higher rainfall totals. June brings temperatures in the mid-80s, and January brings temperatures in the low-20s.

There are a few cultural points of interest located throughout this city including the Harriet Farnsworth Powell Museum, which is a former two-room schoolhouse. There are several exhibits dedicated to school memorabilia and school items. You can also visit the 1st Republic Brewing Company or the Essex Speedway & Action Center.

Essex is served by the Essex Westford School District, and this public school system has more than 4,500 students. There are also a few alternative schools like the Edge Academy to attend. While there are no colleges or universities in Essex, Saint Michael's College is just a short drive away, as is the Community College of Vermont.

GlobalFoundries is the biggest employer in Essex, and this large private company has over 1,500 staff members. The second-biggest employer in Essex is the Essex Westford School District with 1,000 staff. Finally, the third-biggest employer in Essex is Essex Junction Station with over 800 people employed.

Essex has a very healthy economy with an unemployment rate that is over 4% below the national average. However, it hasn't seen any growth in the past year, and it has lost a slight percentage of its local jobs. Over the next ten years, Essex is estimating that it will add 37% more jobs to the economy, and this should help to strengthen it further as the years go on.

The city of Essex has a local median home price of $262,200, and this price works out to around $104 per square foot. In addition to this, these prices have increased over the past year by 0.7%, and they're projected to increase by another 0.5% during the coming year.

Colchester

Colchester Reef Lighthouse.

Vermont's fourth biggest town is Colchester with a population of 17,319 people. This population makes Colchester the most populous city in Chittenden County. You'll find this city directly north of Burlington on Lake Champlain. In 1763, Colchester was founded and named in honor of the Earl of Colchester. This city lost a large percentage of its population in 1922 when the city of Winooski was founded.

The local economy is largely retail-based, and Colchester is ranked as one of the top ten states for retail sales. There are several large shopping centers located in and around this city. The government, tourism, education, and healthcare also make up large portions of the local economy.

Colchester also has a humid continental climate, and this contributes to the high humidity the city experiences year round. Lake Champlain plays a big roll in the storms this city has during the winter months, and it also contributes to how cold the winter month can be. The winter temperatures in January are around 20 degrees, and the summer months typically stay around 70 degrees.

The Lake Champlain International Father's Day Fishing Derby is an annual event that draws thousands of people to the area. If you like to get outdoors and hike or walk some scenic trails, Niquette Bay State Park is a popular option. Tourists can also visit the Sunset Drive-In Theater.

The Colchester School District has over 2,200 students enrolled, and there are a few secondary education institutions located throughout the city as well. Students can attend the first pharmaceutical college in Vermont, the Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences. They can also attend Saint Michael's College or Southern New Hampshire University.

The local economy is very strong with an unemployment rate that is well below the national average. It also has projected growth over the next ten years of 36%. The biggest employer is the Vermont National Guard with over 1,900 staff. The second-biggest employer in the city is Saint Michael's College with 1,500 staff members. Finally, the city's third-biggest employer is the Colchester School District with 900 staff.

The local median home price for this city is $271,600, and this comes out to around $150 per square foot. Both of these prices have increased over the past year by 1.1%, and they're estimated to increase by another 0.8% in the coming year.

Other Towns to Consider

Rutland

Bridge Near Rutland, VT.

Rutland is the second fastest growing city in Vermont and is home to approximately 16,800 residents. The growth in this area is in part due to the resort community. Many people come to Vermont to experience the Okemo Resort, Killington Mountain Ski Resort, and Quechee Gorge.

Real estate in Rutland ranges in price from the low $100s to $500K. The homes are mostly New England style country homes. Some feature modern amenities, but most are standard. Most of the homes on the market are older homes. Since the population is small, there are only approximately 40 recently added homes on the market and 400 in total. However, the city is still growing.

Barre

Aldrich Public Library in Barre.

Many of the homes for sale were built before the 1950s; therefore, they are more traditional like the Victorian style homes. Many of the homes have more rooms than the average home buyer would receive in a more modern home for less money. Therefore, if the consumer enjoys the style of that era, this may be a great place to purchase a home.

The home prices range from the low $100s to $400K. In some instances, a potential home buyer can find a 5,500 square foot Victorian Style home with seven bedrooms and 4.5 baths for less than $200K. A home of this type is typically built in the late 1800s or early 1900s.

Montpelier

Aerial View of Montpelier.

The capital of Vermont is home to approximately 7,800 residents, making it one of the least populated state capitals across the nation. Because of its small population, Montpelier has won the award for the smallest capital city within the United States. The New England Culinary Institute is located in Montpelier, as well as, galleries, theatres, and museums.

The median price of homes in Montpelier is $220,000, and the median sale price is approximately $247,000. Most of the homes are single family homes and a few are condos. There are not many homes on the market in Montpelier. However, consumers may still find a good buy.

Vermont Census Data

According to the United States Census an estimated 624,594 people live in the state of Vermont. The state has 9,216.66 mi² of land area, which gave it a population density of 67.77 per mi². Here is a list of cities, towns, villages & Census Designated Places across the state, with their estimated population as of June 2016 & the 2010 United States Census. For towns with fewer than 5,000 residents & Census Designated Places (CDP) where there was no population estimate available for 2016, the 2011-2015 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates data was used.

All table columns are sortable. Click on the column headers to sort by that column. Click again to sort low to high. Cities with higher levels of population growth typically see the increased demand drive faster real estate price appreciation.

Rank Geography County 2016 Pop 2010 Pop Change % △ Land mi² Pop Den mi²
1 Burlington Chittenden 42,260 42,417 -157 -0.37% 10.31 4,098.93
2 Essex Chittenden 21,199 19,587 1,612 8.23% 38.82 546.08
3 South Burlington Chittenden 18,971 17,904 1,067 5.96% 16.49 1,150.45
4 Colchester Chittenden 17,319 17,067 252 1.48% 36.32 476.84
5 Rutland Rutland 15,601 16,495 -894 -5.42% 7.56 2,063.62
6 Bennington Bennington 15,290 15,764 -474 -3.01% 42.25 361.89
7 Brattleboro Windham 11,607 12,046 -439 -3.64% 31.83 364.66
8 Milton Chittenden 10,759 10,352 407 3.93% 51.38 209.40
9 Essex Junction village Chittenden 10,412 9,271 1,141 12.31% 4.57 2,278.34
10 Hartford Windsor 9,671 9,952 -281 -2.82% 45 214.91
11 Williston Chittenden 9,578 8,698 880 10.12% 30.08 318.42
12 Springfield Windsor 9,044 9,373 -329 -3.51% 49.02 184.50
Bennington CDP Bennington 8,865 9,074 -209 -2.30% 4.8 1,846.88
13 Barre city Washington 8,710 9,052 -342 -3.78% 3.95 2,205.06
14 Middlebury Addison 8,654 8,496 158 1.86% 38.83 222.87
15 Barre town Washington 7,792 7,924 -132 -1.67% 30.56 254.97
16 Shelburne Chittenden 7,726 7,144 582 8.15% 24.31 317.81
17 Montpelier Washington 7,535 7,855 -320 -4.07% 10.06 749.01
Brattleboro CDP Windham 7,259 7,414 -155 -2.09% 4.18 1,736.60
18 St. Johnsbury Caledonia 7,250 7,603 -353 -4.64% 36.39 199.23
19 Winooski Chittenden 7,128 7,267 -139 -1.91% 1.43 4,984.62
Middlebury CDP Addison 6,885 6,588 297 4.51% 13.91 494.97
20 St. Albans city Franklin 6,792 6,918 -126 -1.82% 2.03 3,345.81
21 Swanton Franklin 6,514 6,427 87 1.35% 48.03 135.62
22 St. Albans town Franklin 6,432 5,999 433 7.22% 37.02 173.74
St. Johnsbury CDP Caledonia 6,122 6,193 -71 -1.15% 12.85 476.42
23 Northfield town Washington 6,042 6,207 -165 -2.66% 43.5 138.90
24 Lyndon Caledonia 5,830 5,981 -151 -2.52% 39.46 147.74
25 Morristown Lamoille 5,440 5,227 213 4.07% 51.15 106.35
26 Waterbury Washington 5,136 5,064 72 1.42% 48.24 106.47
27 Rockingham Windham 5,062 5,282 -220 -4.17% 41.43 122.18
28 Jericho Chittenden 5,053 5,009 44 0.88% 35.39 142.78
29 Randolph Orange 4,781 4,778 3 0.06% 48.04 99.52
30 Castleton Rutland 4,645 4,717 -72 -1.53% 38.9 119.41
31 Georgia Franklin 4,641 4,515 126 2.79% 39.33 118.00
32 Derby Orleans 4,529 4,621 -92 -1.99% 49.12 92.20
33 Hinesburg Chittenden 4,472 4,396 76 1.73% 39.43 113.42
34 Fairfax Franklin 4,455 4,285 170 3.97% 39.85 111.79
35 Stowe Lamoille 4,407 4,314 93 2.16% 72.6 60.70
36 Manchester town Bennington 4,339 4,391 -52 -1.18% 42.13 102.99
37 Newport city Orleans 4,328 4,589 -261 -5.69% 5.83 742.37
38 Richmond Chittenden 4,115 4,081 34 0.83% 32.23 127.68
39 Rutland Rutland 4,024 4,054 -30 -0.74% 19.17 209.91
40 Bristol Addison 3,903 3,894 9 0.23% 41.52 94.00
41 Brandon Rutland 3,890 3,966 -76 -1.92% 39.92 97.44
42 Charlotte Chittenden 3,822 3,754 68 1.81% 41.26 92.63
43 Cambridge town Lamoille 3,737 3,659 78 2.13% 63.19 59.14
Springfield CDP Windsor 3,700 3,979 -279 -7.01% 2.29 1,615.72
44 Highgate Franklin 3,581 3,535 46 1.30% 50.73 70.59
45 Shaftsbury Bennington 3,535 3,590 -55 -1.53% 43.09 82.04
46 Johnson town Lamoille 3,512 3,446 66 1.92% 44.71 78.55
47 Windsor Windsor 3,496 3,553 -57 -1.60% 19.47 179.56
48 Pownal Bennington 3,484 3,527 -43 -1.22% 46.46 74.99
49 Norwich Windsor 3,393 3,414 -21 -0.62% 44.46 76.32
50 Hartland Windsor 3,386 3,393 -7 -0.21% 44.89 75.43
51 Williamstown Orange 3,385 3,389 -4 -0.12% 40.25 84.10
52 Poultney Rutland 3,370 3,432 -62 -1.81% 42.91 78.54
53 Westminster town Windham 3,127 3,178 -51 -1.60% 45.84 68.22
54 Chester Windsor 3,110 3,154 -44 -1.40% 55.68 55.85
55 Underhill Chittenden 3,061 3,016 45 1.49% 51.33 59.63
56 Hyde Park town Lamoille 3,043 2,954 89 3.01% 37.59 80.95
57 Bellows Falls village Windham 3,016 3,148 -132 -4.19% 1.37 2,201.46
58 Woodstock town Windsor 3,009 3,048 -39 -1.28% 44.36 67.83
59 Hardwick Caledonia 2,949 3,010 -61 -2.03% 38.62 76.36
60 Pittsford Rutland 2,921 2,991 -70 -2.34% 43.33 67.41
61 Berlin Washington 2,850 2,887 -37 -1.28% 36.27 78.58
62 Weathersfield Windsor 2,794 2,825 -31 -1.10% 43.64 64.02
63 Ferrisburgh Addison 2,774 2,775 -1 -0.04% 47.42 58.50
64 Bradford Orange 2,771 2,797 -26 -0.93% 29.59 93.65
65 Royalton Windsor 2,767 2,773 -6 -0.22% 40.36 68.56
66 Enosburg town Franklin 2,754 2,781 -27 -0.97% 48.23 57.10
67 Barton town Orleans 2,726 2,810 -84 -2.99% 43.25 63.03
68 Putney Windham 2,687 2,702 -15 -0.56% 26.76 100.41
69 Fair Haven Rutland 2,671 2,734 -63 -2.30% 17.44 153.15
70 East Montpelier Washington 2,610 2,576 34 1.32% 31.87 81.90
71 Thetford Orange 2,599 2,588 11 0.43% 43.39 59.90
West Brattleboro CDP Windham 2,559 2,740 -181 -6.61% 1.63 1,569.94
72 Clarendon Rutland 2,555 2,571 -16 -0.62% 31.31 81.60
73 Sheldon Franklin 2,524 2,190 334 15.25% 38.81 65.03
74 Arlington Bennington 2,453 2,317 136 5.87% 42.24 58.07
75 West Rutland Rutland 2,399 2,326 73 3.14% 17.93 133.80
76 Swanton village Franklin 2,380 2,386 -6 -0.25% 0.76 3,131.58
77 Richford Franklin 2,287 2,308 -21 -0.91% 43.02 53.16
White River Junction CDP Windsor 2,267 2,286 -19 -0.83% 1.65 1,373.94
Fair Haven CDP Rutland 2,238 2,269 -31 -1.37% 2.74 816.79
Manchester Center CDP Bennington 2,238 2,120 118 5.57% 4.52 495.13
Randolph CDP Orange 2,214 1,974 240 12.16% 4.26 519.72
78 Grand Isle Grand Isle 2,210 2,067 143 6.92% 16.42 134.59
79 Danville Caledonia 2,203 2,196 7 0.32% 60.72 36.28
Windsor CDP Windsor 2,194 2,066 128 6.20% 1.21 1,813.22
80 Dorset Bennington 2,172 2,031 141 6.94% 47.75 45.49
81 Newbury town Orange 2,162 2,216 -54 -2.44% 64.02 33.77
82 Ludlow Windsor 2,140 1,963 177 9.02% 35.18 60.83
83 Guilford Windham 2,093 2,121 -28 -1.32% 39.83 52.55
West Rutland CDP Rutland 2,075 2,024 51 2.52% 3.68 563.86
84 Wallingford Rutland 2,069 2,079 -10 -0.48% 42.99 48.13
85 Wilmington Windham 2,067 1,876 191 10.18% 39.69 52.08
86 Northfield village Washington 2,057 2,101 -44 -2.09% 1.37 1,501.46
87 Vernon Windham 2,055 2,206 -151 -6.84% 19.45 105.66
88 Morrisville village Lamoille 2,050 1,958 92 4.70% 1.86 1,102.15
89 Monkton Addison 2,049 1,980 69 3.48% 35.87 57.12
90 Bethel Windsor 2,015 2,030 -15 -0.74% 45.18 44.60
91 Westford Chittenden 2,013 2,029 -16 -0.79% 39.08 51.51
92 Alburg town Grand Isle 1998 1,998 0 0.00% 29.14 68.57
93 Middlesex Washington 1,954 1,731 223 12.88% 39.57 49.38
94 Dummerston Windham 1,939 1,864 75 4.02% 30.59 63.39
Milton CDP Chittenden 1,926 1,861 65 3.49% 1.4 1,375.71
95 Huntington Chittenden 1,875 1,938 -63 -3.25% 37.94 49.42
96 Waterbury village Washington 1,835 1,763 72 4.08% 1.89 970.90
Bristol CDP Addison 1,831 2,030 -199 -9.80% 2.13 859.62
97 Newfane town Windham 1,808 1,726 82 4.75% 40.22 44.95
98 Newport town Orleans 1,773 1,594 179 11.23% 41.65 42.57
99 Fairfield Franklin 1,764 1,891 -127 -6.72% 67.4 26.17
100 Starksboro Addison 1,762 1,777 -15 -0.84% 45.68 38.57
101 Berkshire Franklin 1,702 1,692 10 0.59% 42 40.52
102 Waitsfield  Washington 1,701 1,719 -18 -1.05% 26.72 63.66
103 Moretown Washington 1,682 1,658 24 1.45% 39.89 42.17
104 New Haven Addison 1,677 1,727 -50 -2.90% 41.18 40.72
105 Marshfield town Washington 1,650 1,588 62 3.90% 43.01 38.36
106 Barnet Caledonia 1,632 1,708 -76 -4.45% 42.25 38.63
107 North Bennington village Bennington 1,619 1,643 -24 -1.46% 1.86 870.43
Brandon CDP Rutland 1,617 1,648 -31 -1.88% 2.84 569.37
108 Warren Washington 1,615 1,705 -90 -5.28% 39.93 40.45
109 Proctor Rutland 1,614 1,741 -127 -7.29% 7.43 217.23
110 Poultney village Rutland 1,608 1,612 -4 -0.25% 0.63 2,552.38
111 Wolcott Lamoille 1,597 1,676 -79 -4.71% 38.79 41.17
112 Londonderry Windham 1,580 1,769 -189 -10.68% 35.39 44.65
113 Burke Caledonia 1,570 1,753 -183 -10.44% 33.9 46.31
Wilder CDP Windsor 1,562 1,690 -128 -7.57% 0.81 1,928.40
114 Troy Orleans 1,544 1,662 -118 -7.10% 35.74 43.20
115 South Hero Grand Isle 1,543 1,631 -88 -5.40% 14.91 103.49
116 Waterford Caledonia 1,533 1,280 253 19.77% 38.32 40.01
117 Calais Washington 1,532 1,607 -75 -4.67% 37.95 40.37
118 Cavendish Windsor 1,504 1,367 137 10.02% 39.47 38.10
119 Sharon Windsor 1,483 1,502 -19 -1.26% 39.66 37.39
Hardwick CDP Caledonia 1,478 1,345 133 9.89% 1.44 1,026.39
120 Johnson village Lamoille 1,462 1,443 19 1.32% 1.17 1,249.57
South Barre CDP Washington 1,457 1,219 238 19.52% 1.96 743.37
121 Pawlet Rutland 1,414 1,477 -63 -4.27% 42.69 33.12
122 Addison Addison 1,403 1,371 32 2.33% 41.53 33.78
123 Eden Lamoille 1,392 1,323 69 5.22% 63.3 21.99
124 Duxbury Washington 1,378 1,337 41 3.07% 42.93 32.10
125 Lunenburg Essex 1,377 1,302 75 5.76% 45.07 30.55
126 Cabot town Washington 1,376 1,433 -57 -3.98% 37.26 36.93
127 Plainfield Washington 1,359 1,243 116 9.33% 20.96 64.84
128 Danby Rutland 1,356 1,311 45 3.43% 41.41 32.75
129 Bakersfield Franklin 1,353 1,322 31 2.34% 44.52 30.39
Richford CDP Franklin 1,338 1,361 -23 -1.69% 1.85 723.24
130 Dover Windham 1,337 1,124 213 18.95% 35.24 37.94
131 Chelsea Orange 1,333 1,238 95 7.67% 39.89 33.42
132 Franklin Franklin 1,329 1,405 -76 -5.41% 38.37 34.64
133 Orwell Addison 1,310 1,250 60 4.80% 47.18 27.77
134 Corinth Orange 1,308 1,367 -59 -4.32% 48.44 27.00
135 Enosburg Falls village Franklin 1,299 1,329 -30 -2.26% 3.56 364.89
136 Whitingham Windham 1,299 1,357 -58 -4.27% 36.54 35.55
Arlington CDP Bennington 1,287 1,213 74 6.10% 3.68 349.73
137 Fletcher Franklin 1,279 1,277 2 0.16% 37.73 33.90
138 Lincoln Addison 1,279 1,271 8 0.63% 44.41 28.80
139 Brookfield Orange 1,272 1,292 -20 -1.55% 40.79 31.18
140 Mount Holly Rutland 1,270 1,237 33 2.67% 49.11 25.86
141 Irasburg Orleans 1,248 1,163 85 7.31% 40.3 30.97
142 Bolton Chittenden 1,236 1,182 54 4.57% 42.26 29.25
143 Fayston Washington 1,231 1,353 -122 -9.02% 36.44 33.78
144 Leicester Addison 1,231 1,100 131 11.91% 20.85 59.04
145 Concord Essex 1,223 1,235 -12 -0.97% 51.33 23.83
146 Tunbridge Orange 1,213 1,284 -71 -5.53% 44.56 27.22
147 Braintree Orange 1,212 1,246 -34 -2.73% 38.29 31.65
148 Topsham Orange 1,209 1,173 36 3.07% 48.9 24.72
149 Craftsbury Orleans 1,208 1,206 2 0.17% 39.2 30.82
Castleton CDP Rutland 1,203 1,485 -282 -18.99% 1.26 954.76
150 Bridport Addison 1,172 1,218 -46 -3.78% 43.73 26.80
151 Lyndonville village Caledonia 1,172 1,207 -35 -2.90% 0.71 1,650.70
152 Shoreham Addison 1,170 1,265 -95 -7.51% 43.44 26.93
153 Marlboro Windham 1,164 1,078 86 7.98% 40.27 28.90
154 Chittenden Rutland 1,163 1,258 -95 -7.55% 72.58 16.02
Williamstown CDP Orange 1,161 1,162 -1 -0.09% 3.36 345.54
155 Montgomery Franklin 1,148 1,201 -53 -4.41% 56.63 20.27
156 West Windsor Windsor 1,136 1,099 37 3.37% 24.63 46.12
157 Salisbury Addison 1,121 1,136 -15 -1.32% 28.88 38.82
158 Ryegate Caledonia 1,107 1,174 -67 -5.71% 36.48 30.35
159 Strafford Orange 1,100 1,098 2 0.18% 44.11 24.94
160 Washington Orange 1,097 1,039 58 5.58% 38.81 28.27
161 Canaan Essex 1,085 972 113 11.63% 33.01 32.87
162 Fairlee Orange 1,081 977 104 10.64% 20.13 53.70
163 Coventry Orleans 1,079 1,086 -7 -0.64% 26.59 40.58
164 Cornwall Addison 1,071 1,185 -114 -9.62% 28.45 37.64
165 Benson Rutland 1,065 1,056 9 0.85% 43.98 24.22
166 Woodstock village Windsor 1,064 900 164 18.22% 1 1,064.00
167 Shrewsbury Rutland 1,063 1,056 7 0.66% 49.96 21.28
Norwich CDP Windsor 1,058 878 180 20.50% 1.45 729.66
168 Rochester Windsor 1,052 1,139 -87 -7.64% 57.07 18.43
169 Charleston Orleans 1,045 1,023 22 2.15% 37.39 27.95
170 Glover Orleans 1,040 1,122 -82 -7.31% 37.62 27.64
171 Wells Rutland 1,039 1,150 -111 -9.65% 22.11 46.99
172 Groton Caledonia 1,026 1,022 4 0.39% 53.76 19.08
173 Townshend Windham 1,022 1,232 -210 -17.05% 42.22 24.21
174 Sutton Caledonia 1,004 1,029 -25 -2.43% 38.18 26.30
175 Orange Orange 1,002 1,072 -70 -6.53% 38.73 25.87
176 Brownington Orleans 1,000 988 12 1.21% 28.19 35.47
177 Walden Caledonia 999 935 64 6.84% 38.59 25.89
East Barre CDP Washington 996 826 170 20.58% 2.67 373.03
178 Sunderland Bennington 985 956 29 3.03% 45.34 21.72
179 Brighton Essex 973 1,222 -249 -20.38% 51.86 18.76
Hinesburg CDP Chittenden 963 658 305 46.35% 0.7 1,375.71
180 Pomfret Windsor 962 904 58 6.42% 39.39 24.42
181 Elmore Lamoille 956 855 101 11.81% 39.03 24.49
182 Mendon Rutland 934 1,059 -125 -11.80% 38.06 24.54
183 Jamaica Windham 914 1,035 -121 -11.69% 48.93 18.68
184 North Hero Grand Isle 909 803 106 13.20% 13.45 67.58
Bradford CDP Orange 895 788 107 13.58% 0.54 1,657.41
185 Albany Orleans 882 941 -59 -6.27% 38.24 23.06
186 Stamford Bennington 878 824 54 6.55% 39.5 22.23
187 Woodbury Washington 863 906 -43 -4.75% 37.51 23.01
188 Wardsboro Windham 861 900 -39 -4.33% 29.2 29.49
189 Worcester Washington 857 998 -141 -14.13% 38.66 22.17
190 Weybridge Addison 851 833 18 2.16% 17.14 49.65
191 Bridgewater Windsor 843 936 -93 -9.94% 49.41 17.06
192 Jay Orleans 806 521 285 54.70% 33.92 23.76
193 Lowell Orleans 801 879 -78 -8.87% 56 14.30
194 Killington Rutland 781 811 -30 -3.70% 46.58 16.77
Chester CDP Windsor 775 1,005 -230 -22.89% 1.26 615.08
195 Halifax Windham 772 728 44 6.04% 39.71 19.44
196 Greensboro Orleans 769 762 7 0.92% 37.64 20.43
197 Jeffersonville village Lamoille 765 729 36 4.94% 0.78 980.77
198 St. George Chittenden 764 674 90 13.35% 3.56 214.61
199 Readsboro Bennington 763 763 0 0.00% 36.33 21.00
200 Middletown Springs Rutland 759 745 14 1.88% 22.3 34.04
201 Roxbury Washington 757 691 66 9.55% 41.98 18.03
202 Peacham Caledonia 751 732 19 2.60% 46.64 16.10
203 Orleans village Orleans 749 818 -69 -8.44% 0.91 823.08
204 Barnard Windsor 745 947 -202 -21.33% 48.65 15.31
205 Manchester village  Bennington 737 749 -12 -1.60% 3.54 208.19
South Royalton CDP Windsor 727 694 33 4.76% 1.11 654.95
206 Panton Addison 723 677 46 6.79% 15.51 46.62
Wallingford CDP Rutland 717 830 -113 -13.61% 1.66 431.93
207 Vershire Orange 709 730 -21 -2.88% 36.49 19.43
208 Reading Windsor 708 666 42 6.31% 41.47 17.07
Island Pond CDP Essex 701 821 -120 -14.62% 4.17 168.11
Shelburne CDP Chittenden 690 592 98 16.55% 0.63 1,095.24
209 West Fairlee Orange 688 652 36 5.52% 22.59 30.46
210 Barton village Orleans 673 737 -64 -8.68% 1.18 570.34
211 Grafton Windham 669 679 -10 -1.47% 38.27 17.48
212 Holland Orleans 668 629 39 6.20% 37.34 17.89
Bethel CDP Windsor 649 569 80 14.06% 1.6 405.63
213 Brookline Windham 646 530 116 21.89% 12.83 50.35
214 Stockbridge Windsor 646 736 -90 -12.23% 45.89 14.08
Quechee CDP Windsor 645 656 -11 -1.68% 1.85 348.65
215 Hubbardton Rutland 644 706 -62 -8.78% 27.46 23.45
216 Sheffield Caledonia 641 703 -62 -8.82% 32.52 19.71
Richmond CDP Chittenden 630 723 -93 -12.86% 0.89 707.87
217 Derby Line village Orleans 629 673 -44 -6.54% 0.72 873.61
218 Ripton Addison 619 588 31 5.27% 49.69 12.46
219 Rupert Bennington 595 714 -119 -16.67% 44.57 13.35
Graniteville CDP Washington 595 784 -189 -24.11% 1.7 350.00
220 Pittsfield Rutland 589 546 43 7.88% 20.39 28.89
221 Isle La Motte Grand Isle 577 471 106 22.51% 7.88 73.22
222 North Troy village Orleans 573 620 -47 -7.58% 1.87 306.42
223 Weston Windsor 571 566 5 0.88% 34.97 16.33
224 Derby Center village Orleans 559 597 -38 -6.37% 1.39 402.16
225 Westfield Orleans 554 536 18 3.36% 40.09 13.82
226 Andover Windsor 550 467 83 17.77% 28.72 19.15
North Springfield CDP Windsor 549 573 -24 -4.19% 1.1 499.09
227 Saxtons River village Windham 545 565 -20 -3.54% 0.47 1,159.57
South Shaftsbury CDP Bennington 540 683 -143 -20.94% 2.24 241.07
Pittsford CDP Rutland 539 740 -201 -27.16% 1.8 299.44
228 Tinmouth Rutland 538 613 -75 -12.23% 28.55 18.84
229 Winhall Bennington 537 769 -232 -30.17% 43.54 12.33
230 Sudbury Rutland 519 560 -41 -7.32% 21.47 24.17
Proctorsville CDP Windsor 510 454 56 12.33% 2.87 177.70
231 Newark Caledonia 505 581 -76 -13.08% 36.75 13.74
232 Alburg village Grand Isle 500 497 3 0.60% 0.64 781.25
233 Hyde Park village Lamoille 494 462 32 6.93% 1.16 425.86
234 Sandgate Bennington 481 405 76 18.77% 42.14 11.41
235 Plymouth Windsor 462 619 -157 -25.36% 48.12 9.60
236 Ira Rutland 448 432 16 3.70% 22.78 19.67
237 Kirby Caledonia 442 493 -51 -10.34% 24.37 18.14
Wilmington CDP Windham 442 463 -21 -4.54% 1 442.00
238 Waltham Addison 441 486 -45 -9.26% 8.94 49.33
Stowe CDP Lamoille 434 495 -61 -12.32% 0.77 563.64
Websterville CDP Washington 432 550 -118 -21.45% 1.66 260.24
Groton CDP Caledonia 432 437 -5 -1.14% 2.05 210.73
Putney CDP Windham 395 523 -128 -24.47% 1.43 276.22
Hartland CDP Windsor 395 380 15 3.95% 1.09 362.39
Ascutney CDP Windsor 393 540 -147 -27.22% 1.64 239.63
239 Wells River village Orange 389 399 -10 -2.51% 1.88 206.91
240 Athens Windham 378 442 -64 -14.48% 13.04 28.99
241 Whiting Addison 375 419 -44 -10.50% 13.58 27.61
242 Hancock Addison 365 323 42 13.00% 38.02 9.60
243 Westmore Orleans 361 350 11 3.14% 34.26 10.54
244 Windham Windham 359 419 -60 -14.32% 26.01 13.80
245 Newbury village Orange 357 365 -8 -2.19% 4.96 71.98
Wells CDP Rutland 354 397 -43 -10.83% 0.79 448.10
246 Belvidere Lamoille 342 348 -6 -1.72% 32.09 10.66
247 Woodford Bennington 340 424 -84 -19.81% 47.42 7.17
248 Peru Bennington 335 375 -40 -10.67% 37.22 9.00
249 West Burke village Caledonia 334 343 -9 -2.62% 0.47 710.64
Danville CDP Caledonia 326 383 -57 -14.88% 1.02 319.61
Canaan CDP Essex 322 392 -70 -17.86% 1.58 203.80
Dorset CDP Bennington 311 249 62 24.90% 1.22 254.92
Benson CDP Rutland 309 308 1 0.32% 3.87 79.84
Rochester CDP Windsor 304 299 5 1.67% 0.63 482.54
Fairlee CDP Orange 294 189 105 55.56% 0.58 506.90
250 Baltimore Windsor 292 244 48 19.67% 4.65 62.80
Glover CDP Orleans 292 303 -11 -3.63% 1.75 166.86
251 Granville Addison 290 298 -8 -2.68% 51.41 5.64
Newport Center CDP Orleans 288 274 14 5.11% 0.19 1,515.79
252 Mount Tabor Rutland 284 255 29 11.37% 43.67 6.50
253 East Haven Essex 282 290 -8 -2.76% 37.36 7.55
East Middlebury CDP Addison 279 425 -146 -34.35% 0.71 392.96
254 Westminster village Windham 278 291 -13 -4.47% 1.34 207.46
Plainfield CDP Washington 278 401 -123 -30.67% 0.23 1,208.70
Concord CDP Essex 277 271 6 2.21% 1.1 251.82
255 Stannard Caledonia 276 216 60 27.78% 12.43 22.20
256 West Haven Rutland 276 264 12 4.55% 27.83 9.92
Readsboro CDP Bennington 272 321 -49 -15.26% 1.23 221.14
257 Marshfield village Washington 261 273 -12 -4.40% 0.26 1,003.85
258 Cambridge village Lamoille 242 236 6 2.54% 1.24 195.16
Cavendish CDP Windsor 240 179 61 34.08% 0.65 369.23
259 Cabot village Washington 233 233 0 0.00% 1.13 206.19
Greensboro Bend CDP Orleans 232 232 0 0.00% 2.21 104.98
260 Stratton Windham 224 216 8 3.70% 46.09 4.86
261 Bloomfield Essex 222 221 1 0.45% 40.3 5.51
262 Guildhall Essex 216 261 -45 -17.24% 32.78 6.59
263 Jacksonville village Windham 216 223 -7 -3.14% 1.14 189.47
264 Maidstone Essex 213 208 5 2.40% 30.56 6.97
Waitsfield CDP Washington 192 164 28 17.07% 0.38 505.26
Barnet CDP Caledonia 187 129 58 44.96% 0.62 301.61
265 Albany village Orleans 184 193 -9 -4.66% 1.54 119.48
North Hartland CDP Windsor 172 302 -130 -43.05% 1 172.00
Irasburg CDP Orleans 171 163 8 4.91% 0.98 174.49
Beecher Falls CDP Essex 160 177 -17 -9.60% 1.26 126.98
266 Goshen Addison 149 164 -15 -9.15% 20.65 7.22
267 Lemington Essex 149 104 45 43.27% 35.38 4.21
268 Norton Essex 147 169 -22 -13.02% 39.21 3.75
269 Old Bennington village Bennington 137 139 -2 -1.44% 0.37 370.27
Troy CDP Orleans 134 243 -109 -44.86% 0.93 144.09
270 Perkinsville village Windsor 123 130 -7 -5.38% 0.18 683.33
Lowell CDP Orleans 116 228 -112 -49.12% 2.88 40.28
271 Newfane village Windham 113 118 -5 -4.24% 0.18 627.78
272 Landgrove Bennington 111 158 -47 -29.75% 9.13 12.16
East Burke CDP Caledonia 111 132 -21 -15.91% 0.52 213.46
Greensboro CDP Orleans 103 109 -6 -5.50% 2.58 39.92
Coventry CDP Orleans 98 97 1 1.03% 0.27 362.96
273 Granby Essex 95 88 7 7.95% 39.04 2.43
Worcester CDP Washington 94 112 -18 -16.07% 0.07 1,342.86
274 Brunswick Essex 89 112 -23 -20.54% 25.47 3.49
275 Searsburg Bennington 89 109 -20 -18.35% 21.44 4.15
276 Victory Essex 88 62 26 41.94% 42.88 2.05
East Montpelier CDP Washington 63 80 -17 -21.25% 0.09 700.00
277 Buels gore Chittenden 39 30 9 30.00% 4.96 7.86
278 Ferdinand Essex 30 32 -2 -6.25% 52.58 0.57
279 Averill Essex 18 24 -6 -25.00% 36.01 0.50
280 Glastenbury Bennington 9 8 1 12.50% 44.44 0.20
281 Somerset Windham 8 3 5 166.67% 25.91 0.31

Annual Estimates of the Resident Population: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 2016
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division
Release Date: May 2017.

Rural Vermont.

Qualifying for a Home Loan in Vermont

Conforming Mortgages

As of 2024 the conforming loan limit across the United States for single-family homes was set to $766,550, with a ceiling of 150% that amount in HERA high-cost areas where median home values are higher. High local affordability makes the $766,550 ceiling apply statewide for single unit homes. Dual unit homes have a limit of $981,500, triple unit homes have a limit of $1,186,350 & quadruple unit homes have a limit of $1,474,400. Residents buying premium properties in Burlington may be above these thresholds, requiring a jumbo loan. Jumbo loans typically have a slightly higher rate of interest than conforming mortgages, though spreads vary based on credit market conditions.

Several different types of home loans are available in the Green Mountain State. Fixed-rate loans are very common, and the terms include thirty, twenty, fifteen, and ten years. The longer the life of the mortgage, the lower the monthly payment will be, which is why the 30-year loan is the most popular. The downside of this, however, is that the APR is higher compared to shorter-term loans. The difference can be as large as a full percentage point.

In addition to conventional 30-year and 15-year fixed-rate mortgages, lenders offer a wide variety of adjustable rate mortgages (ARM’s). While these instruments have lost some of their attractiveness during the recession, there are still circumstances where they offer the only way for a borrower to qualify. Properly structured (that is, with strict limits on how much the rate can fluctuate), such loans are still a legitimate way for borrowers to purchase a home and start building equity while establishing their credit so as to qualify for conventional loans upon the ARM’s expiration. These loans provide interest rates that fluctuate, as the name implies. The APR is usually fixed for an initial term, such as three, five, seven or ten years. Then the rate adjusts depending on the performance of a referenced index rate, usually once per year; but it can change more frequently. The loan agreement may state in detail how frequently the APR can change, and it may also include a rate cap to prevent large changes.

Balloon mortgages are another route for aspiring homeowners. Balloon mortgages are when a large portion of the borrowed principle is repaid in a single payment at the end of the loan period. Balloon loans are not common for most residential buyers, but are more common for commercial loans and people with significant financial assets.

A few lenders in the Green Mountain State offer interest-only loans, but usually only for periods of three years. These are mortgages where payments are applied only to interest for a period of time. The loan's principal isn't paid down, so the monthly payments are very low. The low monthly payments only lasts a few years, however. Typically, it's about three years. After this period, monthly payments spike because the loan's principal hasn't been reduced & the remainder of the loan must be paid off in a compressed period of time. For example, on a 3 year IO 30-year loan, the first 3 years are interest only payments, then the loan principal must be paid in full in the subsequent 27 years.

When qualifying for a loan, a credit score of 720 or better can help secure a favorable loan. The best rates and deals will be obtained with a score above 740. There is a lot of competition among lenders, and this environment can create nice perks for borrowers. For example, some banks will offer special deals on closing costs for borrowers who qualify. The cost might be added to the mortgage or the bank will pay the closing costs but add a few basis points to the APR.

A debt-to-income ratio of 40% and a down payment of 20% are what most banks want to see on a home loan application. They will accept worse numbers, but fees and APR's could go up as a result. Also, a down payment of less than 20% typically results in required mortgage insurance. This down payment requirement does not apply for Federal assistance programs such as FHA, in which applicants can have a lower credit score and income but still receive financing.

The piggyback loan is another type of mortgage which is simply two mortgages in one. The piggyback loan can eliminate the need for private mortgage insurance by covering 80% of the home's value with the first loan, while the second loan helps to pay for part of the down payment.

Government Programs

Federal Assistance Programs

Prospective home buyers who don't find what they're looking for at one of the state's private banks may want to take a look at some of the mortgage options the federal government offers. One of them is the loan program at the Veterans Administration, which provides mortgages with zero down. On top of that great deal, VA loans do not require private mortgage insurance. The agency does, however, charge a funding fee, and this varies from 1.2% to 3.3%. Making a voluntary down payment will reduce this charge. And in case you're wondering, yes you do have to be a qualified veteran to get one of these unbeatable deals.

If you're not a vet, you may want to consider the Federal Housing Administration's home loan services. The FHA offers loans to people who have a credit score of at least 580 and who can put at least 3.5% down. The government agency also offers mortgages for lower credit scores, but it requires more money down with these loans.

USDA loans can help people with low incomes in rural parts of the state qualify for a subsidized low-interest loan. Given the low population density throughout most of the state, most areas qualify.

State & Local Home Assistance Programs

MOVE Mortgage Program
The MOVE Mortgage Program is administered through the Vermont Housing Finance Agency, and it is designed to help its applicants get a home loan with lower interest rates. Applicants are not restricted to first-time homebuyers, but there are eligibility requirements and restrictions they have to meet including county-specific income limits and home purchase price limits.

However, if an applicant does apply and get accepted to this program, it comes with several benefits that can increase the likelihood that the buyer will be able to continue to afford their home. These benefits include:

  • Lower interest rates on the mortgage loan
  • Lower down payment options
  • Decreased mortgage insurance premiums
  • Up to $825 is savings from taxes and fees

ASSIST Down Payment Program
The ASSIST Down Payment Program is restricted to first-time homebuyers but it can help pay the down payment or closing cost fees when they purchase a property. However, in order to be eligible for this program, they must first get a home loan through one of the Vermont Housing Finance Agency's programs. The amount of funding also can't cover the entire cost of the down payment and closing cost fees. The eligibility and benefits of this program are as follows:

  • Applicants can't have over $30,000 in easily accessible assets like savings or checking accounts
  • Applicants must have a VHFA mortgage
  • Must be a first-time homebuyer
  • Funding comes as a second mortgage
  • 0% interest rate with no monthly payments
  • Repayment is due upon refinance, selling, or paying off your mortgage

Natural Disasters

Flood Insurance

Homeowner's insurance policies typically do not cover flooding. Most of the state of Vermont has a very low to moderate risk of flooding. Here is county-by-county classification.

  • very low risk: Addison, Caledonia, Chittenden, Essex, Grand Isle, Lamoille, Orange, Orelans
  • low risk: Franklin, Windham
  • moderate risk: Bennington, Rutland, Washington, Windsor

Home buyers with mortgages in high-risk areas are required to buy flood insurance. Most flood insurance policies are sold by the United States federal government through The National Flood Insurance Program. Under-priced flood insurance in high-risk areas act as a subsidy to wealthy homeowners.

The NFIP does not charge nearly enough to cover the expected costs of its liabilities. The assessments are not sufficient to build any buffer to cover an extraordinary year, such as what occurred with Hurricane Katrina in 2005 or Hurricane Sandy in 2012. Because homeowners don't incur the full cost of building in a flood zone we end up with more houses there than if homeowners incurred the full cost of the flood risk, which exacerbates the government's costs in the next disaster.

Homeowners who live in lower risk areas & are not required to purchase flood insurance heavily cross-subsidize homeowners who are in areas where floods are more common.

Earthquakes

Most of the state has a very low eathquake risk, while the central portion of Vermont & the southeastern tip of the state have a low earthquake risk. Standard rental and homeowner insurance policies typically do not cover earthquake damage, though they usually cover losses caused by fires which resulted from an earthquake. You can supplement your homeowner's insurance with an earthquake policy.

Hail

Hail damage is not uncommon across the state. Damage from hail is typically covered by home insurance policies.

Vermont Real Estate Laws

Property Taxes

Vermont is the fifth-highest state for property tax rates in the United States. In 2016 the average Vermont assessment rate was 2.02% while the national average assessment was 1.24%. As a statewide average, property owners pay $3,444 per year, per property. This number averages out to be around 5.55% of the property owner's annual income, and this is the third-highest in the nation. The county that collects the highest property taxes in Vermont is Chittenden County with $4,096 per year. The county that collects the lowest amount of property taxes is Essex County with $1,727 per year. The median single-family home costs $255,242, which yields an annual assessment of  $5,150. In Burlington the average assessment for single-family homes was $5,604.

Homestead Laws in Vermont

Homestead laws work to prevent a homeowner from becoming homeless in the event the homeowner suffers from financial hardship or if the homeowner has to declare bankruptcy. A homestead is defined as a home or mobile home along with the property it sits on. Vermont has a generous Homestead law, and property owners may declare up to $125,000 in property as exempt.

The person who declares the homestead must occupy the residence as their primary home, and the debtor is the one who decides which part of the property counts as the homestead if it exceeds the $125,000 maximum cap. The property's value is based on the last property assessment value.

Foreclosures

Vermont's mortgage lenders are required to use the judicial foreclosure method on every property that have four units or less and that are owner-occupied. In addition to this, Vermont's foreclosure process typically defaults to the strict foreclosure method. This means that the property title will be transferred directly back to the mortgage lender at the end of the foreclosure process. But the mortgage lender or the court itself can ask to bypass this method and have the property sold at a foreclosure auction.

If you are served papers which state you have a right to mediation you should fill in your information and send it to the court right away, as mediation puts the foreclosure on hold.

Vermont is also a recourse state with restrictions, and this means the mortgage lender can sue the defaulted borrower for any deficient funds they may incur for the sale of the foreclosed property. During a strict foreclosure, the mortgage lender will file a separate lawsuit to start the deficiency judgment process. During a foreclosure sale, the court may allow the mortgage lender to sue for any deficient funds, but the mortgage lender has to include this in their initial foreclosure lawsuit for it to be valid.

If the defaulted borrower chooses to go through the deed in lieu of foreclosure process, the mortgage lender usually forgives any deficient amount that may result from the lender retaining the property. However, it is a good idea to negotiate for this and have it in writing.

Burlington, Vermont Harbor.

Additional Resources

Check out the following resources to learn more about the Vermont real estate market.

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