In this newsletter . . .

• Welcome Note
• The Economics Behind the Market: National Real Estate Trends
• Opening Day - Local Ski Resorts Anticipate Early Openings
• Our 1st Annual Holiday "Vermont-centric" Gift Giving Guide
• Weston's Christmas Bazaar on Hiatus for 2025
• Holiday Greenery at Local Garden Centers
• Green Mountain Gourmet - Cranberry Salsa with Whipped Cream Cheese
• Calendar of Upcoming Local Events

Thank you for another wonderful year! Be well and stay in touch. And, of course, please contact me for all of your Vermont real estate needs.

- Claudia Harris

Broker/Owner

Mary Mitchell Miller Real Estate

E-Mail: Claudia Harris

Website Click Here

Office: (802)824-3176

Cell: (802)379-0347

Last week, Vermont REALTORS attending the state conference were treated to a presentation by Jessica Lautz, the National Association of REALTORS’ Deputy Chief Economist and Vice President of Research. It was informative and eye-opening, with good news, bad news, and some surprising statistics*. Some highlights from her presentation:

• When looking at all residential sales, first-time homebuyers hit an all-time low. The total percentage has fluctuated over the years, with a high of 44% in 1981 and a low of 21% in 2025.
• The median age of a first-time homebuyer in 2025 is 40 years old, up from an average of mid- to high-20s in the late 1980s.
• First-time homebuyers are struggling to come up with down payments, coupled with unachievable prices and low inventory.
• The average age for a repeat homebuyer used to be 46, and as of 2025 is now 62.
• Homeowners are staying put for much longer with fewer moves, less upsizing as their families and needs grow, and similarly less downsizing.
• Gen X homeowners (and older) are staying put because they are locked into low-interest mortgages. This means they are often living in houses that no longer suit their needs: too small as their needs grow, too big as they transition into being empty-nesters, and (sadly) multi-level or floor plans that are difficult to navigate as they grow older and/or their health wanes.
• 30% of all homebuyers are cash buyers.
• In 2025, married couples accounted for 50% of first-time homebuyers, but that figure was as high as 75% in 1985.
• Single women are the fastest growing segment of first-time homebuyers – rising from 11% in 1985 to 25% in 2025.
• 71% of households have pets and 16% of homebuyers said their pets factored into their neighborhood choice or which property to buy.
• 88% of homebuyers uses a buyers-agent.
• For Sale by Owner (FSBO) sales hit an all-time low with just 5% of sales.
• In 1995, the median annual sale price for existing home sales averaged $114,600 (or $241,000 as adjusted for inflation); in 2024 the median annual sales price averaged $407,500.
• On average, homes in Vermont appreciated 71% between Q1 2020 and Q2 2025.
• Job growth in Vermont is the second lowest in the nation at just 0.5% (Massachusetts “wins” the losers bracket at 0.4%). The states with the highest job growth are Idaho, Utah, Texas, Florida, South Carolina and North Carolina.
• The qualifying income needed for a median-priced home with a mortgage and 20% down increased from $32,112 in 1995 (adjusted to $65,957 with inflation) to an astonishing $105,696 in 2025.

* These statistics are national unless otherwise noted.

These are but a few of our favorite places to find gifts that evoke the holiday spirit and a sense of Vermont. We had a hard time narrowing this list down, but hopefully it sparks a few ideas for everyone on your gift list.

Click on any underlined text for a direct link.



Vermont Kitchen Supply

This beautifully-curated store offers everything the cook, bartender and hostess could ever imagine. Whether you shop in-person or online you will be amazed at their wide selection, inventive products, and exceptional customer service. And, if you're stumped as to what to gift, a gift certificate is just the ticket and you can let the recipient choose something for themselves! 

Weston Village Store and the Weston Village Christmas Shop

Weston - Everyone has that one friend who goes gaga over the holidays and the Weston Village Christmas Shop is the perfect place to find something special. Afterwards, wander next door to the Weston Village Store for holiday and non-holiday gifts galore. Some of our favorites are the funny socks and tees, Vermont-themed clothing, puzzles for every age, and homemade fudge (did we mention the fudge?!!?).

Sugar Bob’s Finest Kind

Chester and online - Savor a taste of Vermont in everything in the store (and online)! Their smoked maple syrup* is a cult favorite in our neck of the woods and no condiment selection is complete without a bottle or two of their hot (and sweet) sauces; pro-tip, try the maple sriracha. Their online ordering is fast and easy. * See recipe below for a smoked maple syrup infused holiday recipe.

H. N. Williams

Dorset and online - This just might be my husband’s favorite store. There is – quite literally – something for everyone and, if you can’t find a gift for someone at H. N. Williams, you’re not trying! Clothing, toys, home goods, food, local products, stocking stuffers, outdoor gear, and more. Best of all, there is a deli and you can sustain your shopping experience with a bowl of homemade soup, a delicious sandwich, or sweet baked treat.

EPOCH Vermont Artisans Gallery

Manchester - As with the best of stores, you can find something for everyone on your gift list at EPOCH, which showcase the creative and unique works of local Vermont artists. From Karen Deets' glassworks, to Bryan Richheimer’s carved birds, to Lynn Adams’ jewelry, you will find true art throughout the store.

Horsford Gardens and Nursery

Online - If you’re not local to the Londonderry/Weston area, and can’t pick out your holiday wreath in person, our favorite place to buy a little piece of Vermont for our out-of-town friends is Horsford Gardens. They ship their beautifully constructed wreaths and centerpieces, it’s easy to order, and you can be confident that the recipient will love this delivery! Order here

The Vermont Country Store

Weston, Rockingham and Online - We could spend hours wandering the store and you won’t have any trouble finding a gift for everyone on your list . . . whether your gift needs to be large or small, expensive or reasonably priced, nostalgic or humorous. And, if you’re not in Vermont, their mail order business is both a lifesaver and a time-saver.

____________________

And if you’re not in area or in the mood to pick out a tangible gift, think about buying a gift certificate from one of these local favorites… always a win-win when you support a local business and find the perfect gift for everyone:



• The Weston Theater Company – Give the gift of world-class live theater! The 2026 season promises to be a standout… details on the lineup will be announced later in the winter.

• Northshire Bookstore – Everyone loves a good book! ‘Nuf said.

Speaking of shopping, we are sad to report that one of our favorite holiday gift-buying options - the Weston Christmas Bazaar - will be taking a year off in 2025 due to continued repairs to its traditional venue, Weston's beloved Playhouse building.

All plans are for the Bazaar to be back for 2026... bigger and better than ever! Mark your calendars for November 27 and 28, 2026, the Friday and Saturday after Thanksgiving.

In the meantime, please consider a donation to assist with the Weston Community Association's continued restoration efforts.

We are lucky to have some fantastic garden centers in our area and there is plenty of time to visit one for all of your holiday greenery needs (trees, wreaths, centerpieces and more).

Glebe Mountain Gardens

The Holiday shop is open the day after Thanksgiving to December 22nd. 

Thursday - Sunday only.

3714 Route 11, Londonderry

(802)824-3956

https://www.glebemountaingardens.com/holiday-shop/

Equinox Valley Nursery 

Hours are 10am - 4pm Daily. Closed Tuesdays.

Route 7A, Manchester

(802) 362-2610

https://www.equinoxvalleynursery.com/holidays

Mettowee Mint

4977 Route 30, Dorset

(802) 325-MINT

https://www.mettoweemint.com/

A festive and seasonally colorful (red and green) dip to satisfy all of your taste buds, hitting crunchy, creamy, sweet, salty and tart in every bite.

Ingredients

• 1 (12 ounce) bag fresh cranberries, rinsed and drained
• 1 bunch cilantro, washed and towel-dried with most of the stems removed and roughly chopped (about 2 cups, firmly packed)
• 1 medium jalapeño (if you prefer low heat: remove the seeds and ribs)
• 1/4 cup white sugar
• 3 tablespoons of Sugar Bob’s Smoked maple syrup
• 1 lime, juiced
• 1/2 orange, juiced
• 1/4 -1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 small log goat cheese – softened and at room temperature
• 1 cup whipped cream cheese (must be whipped!, not the block) – room temperature
• 3-4 scallions (green part only), thinly sliced, for garnish
• 1 bag tortilla chips (blue corn or small white rounds are the best)

Note: Best served in a shallow 8” x 8” or round baking dish.

1. In a small bowl, mix the goat cheese and whipped cream cheese until fully blended together. Add the mixture to your serving vessel and, using a rubber spatula, create an even layer. Depending on the size of your dish, it will be between 1/2 and 1 inch thick. Set aside.

2. Using a food processor, add cranberries, cilantro, and jalapeño and blend until medium to finely chopped.

3. Add the sugar, maple syrup, lime and orange juices, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, onion powder and cumin to the mixing bowl and pulse several times until thoroughly mixed. Taste and add additional salt if desired, depending on your tolerance and the tartness of the cranberries.

4. Using a rubber spatula, spoon the cranberry mixture over the goat cheese/cream cheese layer and spread evenly.

5. Top with scallions.

6. Serve with tortilla chips.

Hints:

* Best served at room temperature so that you can scoop the dip with the corn chips.

* If you don’t have smoked maple syrup, use regular maple syrup.

* If you want to amp up the heat, leave the ribs and seeds in the jalapeño.

Bon Appétit

Panoramic View and 40+ Acres in Londonderry

732 Under the Mountain Rd

Londonderry, VT

$1,350,000

Link

Spacious Country Retreat with Views in Weston

49 Burton Road

Weston, VT

$1,375,000

Link

Londonderry Ranch

with Big Barn

70 Overlook Drive

Londonderry, VT

$295,000

Link

Friday, November 28

Saints & Liars Concert in Support of Stratton Employees Impacted by Hurricane Melissa - Stratton Mountain is teaming up with Saints & Liars and YOU, to host a benefit concert in Grizzly's on Friday, November 28, with a suggested donation for entry to the GoFundMe linked here, to help raise funds for the more than 150+/- Stratton team members from Jamaica who are in need of post-hurricane support. Cash donations will also be accepted at the door if you prefer to donate upon entry. 6-8 PM at Grizzly’s in the base lodge - Details here.

December 4 and 6

Community Reading of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol – This festive and heartwarming community event is a lively retelling of the classic tale featuring beloved Weston artists, including Barbara Lloyd, Susan Haefner, and David Bonanno. With a little audience participation and joyful live music, this 60-minute event brings the language, heart, and tradition of Dickens' classic to life. Stay for carol sing-alongs following the performance! Thursday, Dec 4 at 7:00 PM or Saturday, Dec 6 at 3:30 PM. General Admission Seating, free with reservation (click here).

Friday, December 5

Londonderry Tree Lighting & Tractor Parade - Join the Town of Londonderry for the annual Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony & Tractor Parade on Friday December 5, 2025 at the Mountain Marketplace on Route 100. The tractor parade begins at 5:30 pm, followed by the tree lighting and festivities.

December 5-6

Weston Winter Cabaret – The Weston Winter Cabaret is a tradition with a twist…music, mayhem, and a little mischief are back! Join us for the 8th Annual Weston Winter Cabaret, a wild evening of song, laughter, and holiday spirit. Featuring a cast of Weston favorites, this beloved tradition is the perfect way to kick off the season. Holiday sweaters optional. Good cheer guaranteed. THIS WILL SELL OUT – get your tickets NOW. Tickets Here

Saturday, December 6

Christmas in Weston - Get into the holiday spirit with a visit to Weston to kick off your Christmas/Hanukkah season. Come for some holiday cheer, shopping, and delicious food. Admire the magical Christmas decorations adorning the town, and wave hello to Santa!

Saturday, December 6

Calvin Coolidge Homestead Holiday Open House - Join the modern-day residents of President Coolidge’s hometown as they celebrate the holiday season. Fresh greenery will be festooned throughout the village, dressing the doors of the homes, and enlivening the interiors with holiday spirit. Throughout the day the decorated Coolidge Birthplace and Homestead will be open for touring. At 1:00 p.m. a tree lighting ceremony will call into remembrance the moment in 1923 when President Coolidge threw the switch that illuminated the first-ever electrified National tree. Immediately following, the warmth of the village’s Union Christian Church will welcome visitors for a time of organ music and caroling. Admission to the museum is free for this event. Details Here

Saturday, December 13

Mount Holidays - All the way from the North Pole, via the Mount Holly Fire Department, Santa joins us to hear children’s present wish list. Santa is joined by Mrs. Claus to read A Night Before Christmas. Cookies, brownies, and an early gift from Santa for the children. 3:00 PM 5:00 PM. Information here.

Saturday, December 13, 2025

Lake Morey Resort Holiday Market - 70+ local vendors from Vermont and New Hampshire, sleigh rides, visits with Santa, raffles, music, food and more. 10am - 4pm, at the beautiful Lake Morey Resort, 82 Clubhouse Rd, Fairlee, VT. Details here.

Wednesday, December 31

Stratton’s New Year's Eve Fireworks - Ring in 2026 at Stratton! Fireworks are planned to hit the sky at 9PM and last for approximately 30 minutes. This is a memorable way to send off 2025 and welcome in 2026 in the Green Mountains. Free, so gather the group and join in on an experience you will never forget! Details Here

Wednesday, December 31

Okemo’s New Year's Eve Celebration and Fireworks - Live music from 5-8pm, followed by a Firework display in the Jackson Gore Courtyard to ring in 2026! Details here.

Wednesday, December 31

Magic’s New Year's Eve Party w/ DJ Lee Cohen - Celebrate the last hours of 2025 at the Black Line Tavern. DJ Lee Cohen will entertain us all night and count us down and into 2026! Details here.

Saturday, January 10, 2026

The Grafton Ice Bar - Get ready to trade your snow boots for cowboy boots — this year’s Ice Bar is going full Western - The Frozen Saloon! Saddle up and join us for a wild winter night in Grafton, Vermont, where the spirit of the Old West meets the chill of ice and snow. Expect hand-carved ice bars and sculptures, local libations from top Vermont producers, delicious food trucks, bonfires, raffle prizes, and an evening of music and dancing under the winter sky. And yes — there will be a mechanical bull for the brave cowboys and cowgirls ready to take it on! Admission includes 2 drink tickets. This is a 21+ event. Tickets are available online only HERE. This will sell out – reserve early!!

Mary Mitchell Miller is a proud member of PRIME Multiple Listing Service (MLS) and our website features FULL access to ALL property listings for sale in the State of Vermont.

Mary Mitchell Miller Real Estate has been working with buyers and sellers of southern Vermont real estate in the tri-mountain area between Okemo, Bromley and Stratton ski areas for more than 40 years. We are a full-service real estate brokerage firm specializing in the sale of fine homes and properties in Weston, Londonderry, Peru, Landgrove, Dorset, Manchester, Andover, Chester, Ludlow (Okemo Mountain), Mount Holly, Jamaica, Stratton, Winhall and Windham. Fully licensed in Vermont.