Whether buying or selling your home in Vermont, choosing the right real estate agent can make all the difference. The market here is unique. From Burlington’s vibrant neighborhoods to the rural charm of Addison County and the ski-town appeal of Stowe.
Whether buying or selling your home in Vermont, choosing the right real estate agent can make all the difference. The market here is unique. From Burlington’s vibrant neighborhoods to the rural charm of Addison County and the ski-town appeal of Stowe. You’ll want an agent who understands not just real estate, but Vermont real estate.
1. Understand the Vermont Real Estate Landscape
Before you even start interviewing agents, it’s worth taking a moment to understand what makes Vermont’s market unique.
- Seasonality: Our market has strong seasonal swings. Spring and summer see the most activity, while winter can be quieter (except in ski towns).
- Rural vs. Urban Pricing: Homes in Chittenden County (Burlington, South Burlington, Williston) tend to sell faster and for higher prices than in more rural counties.
- Special Property Types: Lakefront homes, ski condos, and historic farmhouses all have their own market dynamics and require specialized knowledge.
By knowing the basics, you can better assess whether an agent is speaking your language.
2. Ask for Local Experience — Not Just Years in the Business
Years of experience is one thing, but Vermont-specific experience is another. An agent who has been selling homes in Texas for 15 years may not know how to market a 19th-century farmhouse with a wood stove in Barre.
Look for:
- Local track record in your target area
- Understanding of local zoning rules and septic requirements
- Connections to Vermont-specific service providers (inspectors who know how to check for frost heave, contractors who can work on slate roofs, etc.)
3. Clarify Your Goals
Are you looking to buy your forever home, sell quickly, or invest in rental property? Your goals will influence the type of agent you need.
a For sellers, this could mean finding an agent with a strong digital marketing strategy and competitive commission structure. For buyers, it could mean someone with early access to listings in your preferred towns.
At Flex Realty, for example, we focus on listening to your priorities — whether that’s maximizing sale price, saving on commissions, or securing a home before it hits the open market.
4. Check Online Reviews and References
In Vermont, word-of-mouth still matters, but online reviews give you a broader view.
- Search Google, Zillow, and Realtor.com for reviews.
- Pay attention to mentions of responsiveness, negotiation skills, and local knowledge.
- Ask the agent for references from past clients, ideally those who bought or sold in a similar area or price range as yours.
5. Ask About Marketing Strategies (For Sellers)
Not all agents market homes the same way. In a state where buyers often search from afar (Boston, New York, Montreal), online visibility is critical.
Ask:
- Will they use professional photography and drone shots for rural or lakefront properties?
- Will they create 3D virtual tours for buyers who can’t visit in person?
- How do they promote listings on social media and Vermont-specific channels?
Flex Realty’s approach includes high-quality media, targeted online ads, and maximum MLS exposure — all with a lower commission, meaning you keep more of your equity.
6. Evaluate Communication Style
If you’re buying in a competitive market like Burlington, you can’t afford slow responses. The same goes for selling during peak season — opportunities move fast.
When interviewing agents, note:
- How quickly they respond to calls or emails
- Whether they prefer text, phone, or email
- How they explain the buying/selling process — do they make it clear and stress-free?
7. Understand Their Fee Structure
Agent commissions in Vermont are typically around 5–6%, but that’s not set in stone.
A key advantage with Flex Realty is our low commission model — offering the same full-service representation for a fraction of the typical cost. This can save sellers thousands without sacrificing marketing or negotiation strength.
Be sure to ask:
- What’s included in the fee?
- Are there any additional costs (staging, photography, etc.)?
- How does their commission compare to other local agents?
8. Verify Licensing and Professional Standing
In Vermont, real estate agents must be licensed by the Vermont Office of Professional Regulation. You can check an agent’s license status online to make sure it’s active and in good standing.
9. Meet in Person (or Virtually) Before Deciding
Chemistry matters. You’ll be working closely with your agent during a high-stakes transaction, so make sure your personalities click.
In a meeting, ask them about:
- Recent transactions in your desired area
- How they handle multiple-offer situations
- Their plan if the home doesn’t sell right away
10. Trust Your Instincts
Numbers, reviews, and credentials are important — but trust plays a huge role. If you feel rushed, unheard, or pressured, that’s a red flag.
The right Vermont agent will listen, provide honest advice, and be transparent about both the challenges and opportunities in your situation.
Why the Right Choice Matters in Vermont
In Vermont’s competitive and varied real estate market, having an agent who knows the local nuances can mean:
- Selling faster and for more money
- Avoiding costly inspection surprises
- Finding hidden gem properties before the crowd
And with Flex Realty’s low-commission model, you don’t have to choose between great service and saving money. You get both.