Vermont’s natural splendor has long drawn visitors and transplants seeking a slower pace of life. In recent years, the state has also gained attention as a promising land investment opportunity.
As Vermont land investing values continue to rise – fueled by steady real estate appreciation and high buyer demand – investors must be selective with property selection and timing. Outside prime development zones, land prices are beginning to plateau after rapid gains earlier this decade.
With strategic lot selection and reasonable hold periods, savvy Vermont land investments will still deliver steady gains across the cycle. But, it’s no longer the same as investing in a home, and the process is much more complex. Developing land in Vermont takes a specific set of skills and expertise that are best left to those with the proper experience.
While real estate agents are an option, they’re not a necessity when it comes to buying or selling Vermont land. Education, leveraging online resources and networking with other professionals are all valid ways to find a good deal on Vermont land. In addition, a shared ownership model like share-by-share investing can help newcomers enter the market with minimal upfront costs.
Once you’ve found a property that meets your criteria and fits within your budget, it’s important to conduct due diligence before finalizing any purchase. This includes evaluating municipal regulations, deed restrictions and environmental conditions. In addition, you’ll want to consider how your land will be used for the long-term. Residential rental properties are popular in Vermont and can generate strong yields, particularly in metro regions. Vacation homes for seasonal and short-term rental are also a great source of income during peak tourist seasons.
Lastly, you’ll want to understand local land and lot loan programs before making any commitments. A land or lot loan program is a specific type of mortgage that can be used for purchasing raw or improved land. They’re typically more flexible than conventional mortgages and can be used to fund a wide range of projects, including building a home or converting a vacant property into a commercial property. Land and lot loans are available through banks, credit unions and other financial institutions. In addition, there are some online lenders that specialize in providing loan programs for land and lot purchases. Using an online search engine can help you quickly connect with the right lender for your specific circumstances. In many cases, these online lenders can offer competitive rates and quick turnaround times. This makes it easier to secure financing for your Vermont land investment project. Moreover, most of these lending programs can provide you with better terms than traditional mortgages. These programs usually don’t have the same PMI or insurance requirements as standard mortgages, which can save you money every month and over the term of your loan. In short, a land or lot loan can be an excellent way to buy your dream property in the beautiful state of Vermont.