WINDHAM COUNTY
MEET YOUR
REALTOR
A special publication of the Brattleboro Reformer Thursday, March 19, 2026
My success as the owner of Brattleboro Area Realty has been earned through decades of hard work. I know and love real estate sales and it would be my pleasure to partner with you to discuss selling your home, business or land.
Let me put my expertise to work for you!
Kristen Ziter Taylor Owner/Broker, Serving VT & NH 802-380-6632 BRATTLEBORO AREA REALTY
402 Canal St, Brattleboro VT 05301
• Voted 2018 Remarkable Womens Entrepreneur Leader
802-257-1335 www.realtyvermont.com • info@realtyvermont.com
Thursday, March 19, 2026 | Windham County Meet Your Realtor
Expenses to expect upon buying a home Homeownership is often characterized as a fulfillment of a dream. Indeed, many homeowners feel their ability to buy a home is a reflection of their discipline and commitment to saving money. That discipline and dedication can set homeowners up for long-term financial health, providing a unique sense of security along the way. First-time home buyers may not know what to expect upon buying a home, and since each home is unique, it’s impossible for
even long-time homeowners to say with certainty exactly how things will unfold once those new to home ownership get the keys to their first house. Various expenses might be the only common variable when it comes to homeownership, and some of those expenses may surprise first-time buyers. With that in mind, the following are some expenses first-time buyers can expect once their offers are
accepted. • Down payment: Conventional wisdom long suggested home buyers should submit a down payment of at least 20 percent of the overall purchase price upon buying a home. Buyers who want to follow that advice would need a down payment of $80,000 when buying a $400,000 home. But many home buyers now submit down payments considerably less than 20 percent,
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particularly in the modern real estate market, which is characterized by high prices and low inventory. The lower the down payment, the higher your monthly mortgage payment will be, so it’s best to save as much as possible toward a down payment. • Primary mortgage insurance (PMI): Buyers who cannot come up with a down payment of 20 percent or more will have to pay for primary mortgage insurance, which is typically a set fee that is incorporated into the mortgage payment each month. PMI fees are typically waived once the balance on the mortgage reaches 79 percent or less of the purchase price, though some lenders may waive PMI prior to that if the value of the home increases considerably before the loan balance reaches the predetermined marker. • Closing costs: The amount of closing costs varies widely depending on a host of variables, but Bankrate.com notes it’s not uncommon for these costs to come in at somewhere between 2 and 5 percent of the loan principal. Closing
costs must be paid no later than when the sale becomes official and buyers sign on the (many) dotted lines. Application and credit fees, title fees, underwriting fees, appraisal fees, and transfer tax are among the various fees that fall under the umbrella of closing costs. • Moving: It’s also important that first-time home buyers budget for moving costs. Moving costs vary and may depend on how much buyers already own and how far they’re moving. The home renovation experts at Angi estimate that local moves typically cost somewhere between $883 and $2,568, while long-distance moves may run buyers anywhere from $2,700 to $10,000 or more. These costs are some of the upfront fees aspiring homeowners can expect when buying a home. Longterm costs, including homeowners’ insurance (which is separate from PMI), property taxes, homeowners’ association fees, and maintenance are some additional expenses buyers can plan for as they try to determine their home buying budgets.
Peggy Winchester
Derek Winchester
Vermont & New Hampshire Call Peggy today at 802-258-8500 Email: peggyacornrealestate@gmail.com
Vermont & New Hampshire Call Derek today at 603-313-5760 Email: derekacornrealestate@gmail.com
Owner/Broker
Acorn Real Estate Group may be a new business in the area but with years of market expertise and a passion for helping clients succeed, Peggy delivers exceptional results through strategic marketing, skilled negotiation, and personalized service. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, upgrading to your dream home, or selling for top dollar, you’re in expert hands. Partner with a dedicated professional who puts your goals first.
4 Elliot Street, Brattleboro, Vermont www.acorn-realestate.com 802-258-8500
Realtor
Derek is a proud Vermont native who’s called the southern VT/NH area home my entire life. After more than 20 years in the automotive industry, I’m thrilled to embark on a new chapter with Acorn Real Estate. My deep local roots, strong work ethic, and passion for helping others drive me to guide clients through every step of their real estate journey. I’m excited to help you find your perfect home or investment property in our community.
Homeowners in mid-life or older may ponder a host of changes as retirement draws closer. One of the more significant changes homeowners may consider relates to their homes. Some homeowners may be entrenched in their forever homes, while others may be considering moving to a residence that’s more manageable and/or amenable to lifestyle changes. Homeowners among the latter group may be looking to active adult communities as they seek to downsize in an effort to spend less time working on their homes and more time socializing. A range of variables has drawn people to active adult communities. A recent survey conducted by SurveyMonkey Audiences for 55places found that 64 percent of respondents identify interest in health and fitness groups within 55+ communities as attracting them to such residences, which typically boast a range of additional amenities that might appeal to adults 55 and over. Adults interested in active adult communities are urged to contact local representatives of such collectives to
get specific information, but the following are some frequently asked questions that can offer insight into 55+ communities. DO I NEED TO BE 55 TO MOVE IN? It’s typical that individuals who aspire to live in active adult communities be at least 55-years-old, but there might be some exceptions. For example, a married couple in which one spouse is 55 and the other nearing that age might still be eligible. IS THIS A TYPICAL SENIOR LIVING COMMUNITY? Conceptions of communities designated for aging adults vary, but those who perceive active adult communities as catering to individuals with chronic illnesses may be mistaken. Active adult communities are generally designed for residents who are physically active and want to remain so, and many of these communities feature single-family homes or condominiums owned by the residents. Health care facilities like gyms are commonplace at 55+ communities, but health care services like medical care and other features are typically not available on-site.
DO COMMUNITIES FEATURE HOA FEES? Fees are commonplace at active adult communities, where residents typically do not want to worry about home maintenance tasks like mowing the lawn or exterior repairs. Fees will vary by community, but they must be factored in when considering if a community is the right fit. CAN I HOST GUESTS FOR OVERNIGHT STAYS AT AN ACTIVE ADULT COMMUNITY?
Residents are typically allowed to host guests for overnight visits at active adult communities, but the length of stays may be limited. Some communities limit overnight guest stays to a predetermined number of days or weeks per year. Each individual community may have its own rules. DO I STILL NEED HOMEOWNER’S INSURANCE? Expenses like homeowner’s insurance are generally not covered in HOA fees.
Residents will need to take out their own homeowner’s policies. WHAT ABOUT UTILITIES? Utilities also are not typically part of the HOA fees, so residents will need to factor utility costs into their overall budgets when determining if a given community is affordable. Answering these questions and more can help adults 55 and over determine if active adult communities are right for them.
Windham County Meet Your Realtor | Thursday, March 19, 2026
FAQ about active adult communities
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Local decision making. Conventional and nonconforming mortgages. 10 Brown Court, Brattleboro, VT 05301 802.257.5131 www.members1cu.com
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A local Credit Union & Financial Cooperative that can meet all your financial needs.
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Thursday, March 19, 2026 | Windham County Meet Your Realtor
A home-buying guide for empty nesters The day a child leaves home can be bittersweet for parents. Although a son or daughter being successful and mature enough to move on to new opportunities can be a source of pride,
parents typically lament the quiet that comes from empty rooms and a change to the daily routine they’d grown accustomed to when the kids were around. After some time, some couples de-
DILIGENT CLEVER HONEST Still working hard after 35 years
cide to downsize to a home more befitting the empty nester lifestyle. Downsizing presents an option for homeowners whose kids have left the nest. New analysis from a
survey of 2,500 empty nesters commissioned by Regency Living found that 30 percent of empty nesters choose to downsize and move from their original family homes. When re-
Beautiful Furniture TO COMPLEMENT YOUR HOME, YOUR LIFE, AND YOUR BUDGET.
1. HOW MUCH UPKEEP CAN I HANDLE?
Most alert of them all!
The perfect combination
Chris was voted Brattleboro Reformers Best Real Estate Choice in 2019, 2020, 2021, 2023 and 2024
233 Old Homestead 233 Old HomesteadHighway Highway (Route airport) (Route32, 32,south south of of the airport) Swanzey, Swanzey,New NewHampshire Hampshire
Call Chris at 802-380-2088 or email chris@brattleboroarearealty.com Licensed in Vermont & New Hampshire CRS, CBR, GRI, ABR
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www.realtyvermont.com
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tirement is just around the corner, many professionals shift focus to how they want to live and where. Moving to a new home presents plenty of opportunities for older adults, including a chance to choose a home based on what’s right for them in this stage of life. There are questions homeowners can ask themselves as they ponder if downsizing is right for them.
Monday--Friday Friday 10 to 66 Monday Saturday 10 to Closed Saturday to 55 Sunday - Sunday Closed FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED FOR MORE THAN 75 YEARS
(800) 494-3876 (603) 352-0337 www.frazierandsonfurniture.com
A lifelong family home may be well-loved, but chances are it requires significant upkeep and repairs. Empty nesters may choose to move on to a home that offers lifestyle benefits like less maintenance. Homes in lifestyle communities or those overseen by a homeowners’ association tend to have certain maintenance built into a monthly fee.
Windham County Meet Your Realtor | Thursday, March 19, 2026
2. IS THIS LAYOUT STILL A FIT? Many empty nesters may not immediately feel the effects of aging, but before selecting a next home, individuals should think about aging in place and any unique needs they may have. Opting for a singlelevel home, or at least one with the owner’s suite on the main level, can be advantageous.
3. CAN I MAKE DUE WITH LESS SQUARE FOOTAGE? A cavernous home with many rooms often isn’t desirable for empty nesters. All of that square footage requires heating, cooling and maintenance. Rattling around inside a big, empty house may precipitate the decision to downsize. Downsizing also can free up home equity, which can be used to fund retirement needs.
4. WHICH FEATURES DO YOU DESIRE? Many empty nesters want the next home to focus on some luxury items they may have bypassed in the first home when priorities lay elsewhere. Upscale environments like gourmet kitchens, spa-like
METRO CREATIVE CONNECTION bathrooms and outdoor living spaces may be in the budget when moving into a home with a smaller footprint.
5. WILL MY HOME BE SECURE WHILE I TRAVEL? Empty
might
those homes will be less vulnerable to thieves.
6. DOES THIS HOME HAVE ENOUGH LIGHT? The American Optometric Association says many adults start to have problems seeing clearly begin-
ning at age 40. Homes with more light from large windows and artificial lighting can reduce accident risk. Moving to a smaller home is a consideration for many empty nesters. Various features offer benefits to adults who want to age in place.
List with the Leader! Just look at our CLOSED TRANSACTIONS FOR 2025 compared to our closest competition!*
BH&G
THE MASIELLO GROUP — 576 Berkley & Veller — 354 Brattleboro Area Realty — 193 Four Seasons Sotheby’s — 186 EXP-139 RE/Max Town & Country-76
* Based on closed units from MLS Statistical Reporting for 2025 for all towns in Windham County, VT & Cheshire County, NH
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972 Putney Road
nesters
want to choose homes in gated communities or condominium complexes for safety reasons. Should they opt to spend a portion of time at a vacation rental or second home as snowbirds, secure communities enable residents to leave their primary residence with the peace of mind that
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Thursday, March 19, 2026 | Windham County Meet Your Realtor
Costeffective curb appeal boosters One shouldn’t judge a book by its cover. However, that often is hard to do, particularly when it comes to homes. Curb appeal bears significant influence regarding how a property is perceived. A property that is neat and aesthetically appealing probably will be preferable to one that looks like the homeowners did not maintain it. Boosting curb appeal is a common focus of sellers before listing a property. But what can those who don’t have big budgets for major overhauls do to improve their curb appeal? Plenty of projects can offer maximum output with minimal investment.
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REFRESH THE FRONT DOOR Painting the front door
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can add brightness and improve the look of a home’s entryway. Most exterior paint costs between $30 and $40 per gallon, so this is undeniably a budget-friendly improvement. If money allows, replacing the door altogether will generate bang for your buck. IMPROVE OR ADD LANDSCAPING ELEMENTS
Landscaping should be designed to highlight the home’s best features. It should look symmetrical and feel manicured. If it’s not possible to plant new flowers or bushes, simply cleaning up debris and weeds, and trimming existing greenery can make it feel neater and more polished.
METRO CREATIVE CONNECTION CLEAN UP
Power-washing the siding, cement walkways and garage door can create instant impact. It’s amazing how much dirt and mildew can reduce the luster of a home. Cleaning off years of grime can be a fast and inexpensive refresh. RESEAL THE DRIVEWAY
Make sure the driveway is clean and tidy. If it has
cracks or discoloration, filling in cracks and applying a new coat of sealer will make a big difference. Homeowners can hire someone to reseal the driveway or do the work on their own. ADD MORE LIGHTING
Updating front porch lights and accent lights around the property will cast a more positive glow on a home, both literally and
figuratively. ADD A SEATING AREA
If space by the front door allows, add a bench or some chairs to create a welcoming seating area. A potted plant or two nearby will help the area seem intentional. Improving curb appeal doesn’t have to cost a lot of money. A few easy touches can boost the look of any property.
A well-manicured lawn appeals to homeowners when they look out their windows. But such a view also can look nice when homeowners peruse their bank statements after selling a property. According to the “2023 Remodeling Impact Report: Outdoor Features” from the National Association of Realtors®, standard lawn care service yields an estimated cost recovery of 217 percent. Landscape maintenance, with an estimated cost recovery of 104 percent, and an overall landscape upgrade (100 percent) also yield great returns for homeowners. The NAR® report also noted the effects of such projects related to homeowners’ desire to spend time on their property. Among homeowners who participated in the NAR® report and committed to standard lawn care service, 58 percent indicated they had a greater desire to be at home since completing the project, while 46 percent indicated they have an increased sense of enjoyment when spending time at home.
Desiree Stango Berkley & Veller Greenwood Country Realtors
Desiree is a relationship-driven real estate professional known for consistently going above and beyond for her clients. She believes real estate is about more than transactions- it’s about building trust and lasting relationships. With a strong commitment to communication, integrity, and personalized service, Desiree guides buyers and sellers with care, attention to detail, and genuine support every step of the way. Contact Desiree at Berkley & Veller Greenwood Country Realtors Office: 802-254-6400 • Cell: 802-451-6053 Office Fax: 802-254-6403 • Email: desiree.stango@berkleyveller.com
Real Estate with Heart, Strategy, and Results Karen Hoppe • 802-258-1902 Licensed in VT & NH
Helping people navigate one of life’s most exciting and complex journeys, buying or selling a home is more than just a job to me, it’s a passion. With years of experience and success in our local market, I thrive on turning challenges into solutions, making the process less overwhelming and a lot more enjoyable. Whether it’s your first home or your forever home, I’m here to guide you every step of the way with insight and integrity.
Windham County Meet Your Realtor | Thursday, March 19, 2026
Did You Know?
I am licensed in VT and NH, and am certified as a Real Estate Negotiation Expert. Call today to start your search, or get your home ready for sale!
Karen Hoppe, Realtor™
www.berkleyveller.com The Brattleboro Reformer | Reformer.com 7
Thursday, March 19, 2026 | Windham County Meet Your Realtor The Brattleboro Reformer | Reformer.com 8
39 Atwood St., Brattleboro 6 rooms, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 1152 sq. ft MLS #5075506 $353,900
First time offered, EVER... built and loved by the current family, it is time to pass the keys to a new generation of owners ready to put their own love and dreams into this sweet home. Just across from the high and middle schools, around the corner from Oak Grove grade school, and down the street from the hospital and shopping. There is a first floor bed and bath for aging in place, but 2 big bedrooms and full bath up! The full basement has room for a workshop, storage or game room. Drive and carport are paved for easy maintenance. Huge shed in the back for storage or lawn care tools. Just what you have been waiting for!
More information: Christine Lewis, CRS, CBR, GRI Brattleboro Area Realty Cell: 802-380-2088 * Office: 802-257-1335 Chris@BrattleboroAreaRealty.com