A View From the Hills

The Cohen Place: the story of a second home
More Than Money:
What it means to make it in Vermont.
Table for One:
Employing Yourself
Help Wanted:
Listings & Sources
Stowe Vermont Vacation and Holiday Travel Guide
Smuggler's Notch and Northern VT Lodging and Vacation Guide
Visit New England Holiday and Travel Guide

MORE THAN A VACATION: LESS THAN A HOME

SECOND HOME OWNERSHIP CAN BE A SMART INVESTMENT IN YOUR VERMONT DREAM

You're not ready to make the move to Vermont, but it sure would be nice to own a piece of it right now.  If for no other reason than it would spare you from having to pack and unpack your hotel room every few weekends!

Second home ownership runs the spectrum from cottages which have been in the family for generations to time share condos which are primarily used as income vehicles. Second homes can be hunting camps, lacking even the most basic of amenities... and they can be luxury townhomes. When choosing your second home consider the following:

  • How often will you use the property? A time share makes sense only if you intend to use your vacation home during your alloted time. Otherwise, consider a camp, house or duplex.

  • Who will be enjoying the property with you? If you're planning on bringing your wife and kids to the hunting camp for weeks on end during the summer, you might want to give some thought to indoor flush. Or to adding it soon. Likewise if you expect your elderly parents to share your vacation home.

  • How far is your property from services and facilities you use regularly when you're visiting the area? That second home two towns away may look like a bargain... but it puts you 45 minutes from the ski resort. Does this work for you?

  • What do the property values look like in the area you're considering. And, more importantly, what do the property taxes look like. Some resorts have seen property taxes climb over 150% in the past few years, with more to come. Be aware of what you can expect when that bill comes in the mail.

  • Are there caretaker services in the area?  Relying on the good will of neighbors to check the house during a winter freeze is an option... but hiring a firm with expertise on home repair and insurance to cover any damage is more prudent.

  • Is this a home you intend to retire into? And if so, can it be made comfortable for you as you and your spouse age? Not something to be taken lightly. Those 10 steps up to the magnificent deck seem reasonable enough at 40. They won't seem that way at 70.

  • Are there sufficient services and organizations in the area you're considering making your long term home to keep you interested and active?  Are there medical facilities within a reasonable drive? If you enjoy a night out on the town, are there restaurants and theaters you'll enjoy frequenting regularly once you've swapped titles from "visitor" to "local?"

  • And lastly, is there a sufficient job market in the area so you'll be able to support yourself in the style to which you've become accustomed... or do you have the necessary resources for retirement? There are few things more disappointing than underestimating the cost of living and being forced to give up the dream of living in Vermont.

With a little forethought, and a lot of driving around looking at properties, you can make the first steps to becoming a part-time Vermont resident... on your way to your full time dream.