There are many wonders that bring potential buyers into the state of Vermont. Within Chittenden County, a large one is the spectacular Lake Champlain. The potential to live on the lakefront is attractive to many folks in the area and is what we’ll be looking at today. Before making the waterfront move, it’s important to understand both the pros and cons as well as what the prices and inventory are looking like in today's hot market.
You’ll want to start by knowing which municipalities within Chittenden County have lakefront property. You can soak up those fantastic lake views in Colchester, Burlington, South Burlington, Shelburne, Charlotte, and Milton. Each area can offer you something different in terms of views, attractions, and beach access. If acreage and privacy are high on your list, you may want to look more towards Charlotte, Shelburne, and Milton. Condos are a fantastic option for a more affordable property that still gets those lake views, Burlington and Colchester tend to have more condos and townhomes on the market by the water. The downtown waterfront of Burlington will offer you the most in terms of attractions, with restaurants and parks right outside your door. This also means heavier foot traffic and a lack of beachfront. For those willing to look outside of Chittenden County, consider heading out to Grand Isle. Both North Hero and South Hero have some gorgeous lake houses for sale, some even with private beaches.
While there are ample reasons why a lakefront property is a major perk, it’s important to note the potential drawbacks as well that come with this move. When living lakefront, you’re likely looking at a much higher price point than those in more inland Vermont. If that is not a deterrent, the higher traffic of people and nearby public beaches may be a factor for pausing. We also have to look at inventory. It’s rare to find a single family home, or condo, on the water in Chittenden county. It’s even more rare for this home to be on the market longer than a week, especially in the current real estate climate. This means you’ll have to be ready and raring to go with a competitive offer the second a place is listed that meets your needs. To help show what prices are looking like recently, the average sold price of waterfront homes in Chittenden County over the past few years is $656,500.
It’s important to be accountable for the environment surrounding you as well when on the edge of the water. “Lakeshore property owners assume part of the responsibility of protecting a lake or pond. Actions on land have a direct impact on the water quality, habitat, and shoreline stability of a public resource.” (Guide for Lakeshore Property Owners) Be sure to understand the significance of the land you’re buying on and the need to preserve the lake before buying.
We can now look at some of the many perks of owning land on the shores of Lake Champlain. While the views have already been brought up, there is truly no beating a beautiful sunset on the edge of the water. Just last year our team listed a gorgeous home in South Hero with stunning views from the front porch and beach access. There’s truly no better way to spend Summer in Vermont than along the water, having private access to that is no small feat. Since the price point for lakefront is so high, there’s some great property value in buying these homes. If you continue to build equity in your estate, who knows how much it may eventually sell for if your plans change down the line. The same can be said for rental potential in a lakefront home in the Summer months. Folks will be flocking to Airbnb from June to September to try to stay in your oasis along the lake.
If you’re now convinced a life by the water in Vermont is the move for you, contact our buyer’s agent, Jamie@polliproperties.com to start your home buying journey! Alternatively, if it’s now time to sell that lakefront home, contact Elise@polliproperties.com.
Pictured: Lou and Mirabelle, who bought a gorgeous waterfront estate in Colchester with Polli Properties.