How to Sell Inherited Land Fast in Vermont?

Let's face it - inheriting land in Vermont can be both a blessing and a challenge. Whether you've got a slice of the Green Mountains or a patch of farmland in the Champlain Valley, figuring out how to sell it quickly can feel like navigating a maze. But don't worry, we've got your back.

First, let's talk numbers. According to the USDA's 2022 Census of Agriculture, the average farm in Vermont spans about 175 acres. That's a lot of maple trees! More interestingly, the value of agricultural land and buildings in the Green Mountain State averaged $3,677 per acre in 2022 - a hefty 14.9% jump from 2017. So, if you've inherited land, you might be sitting on a valuable asset.

The Vermont Land Scene: It's Complicated

Now, before you rush to slap a "For Sale" sign on your inherited plot, let's get real about the Vermont land market. It's as complex as a pint of Ben & Jerry's, with layers of factors to consider:

1. Conservation is king here. Vermonters love their pristine landscapes, and laws like Act 250 keep a watchful eye on development.
2. The market can be as unpredictable as New England weather. One day it's hot, the next it's cooler than a January morning in Stowe.
3. Selling vacant land often takes longer than offloading a cozy farmhouse. We're talking 1-2 years on average.

But don't let that discourage you. With the right approach, you can sell your inherited land faster than you can say "maple syrup."

Your Roadmap to a Quick Sale

1. Get Your Ducks in a Row

Before you do anything else, make sure all the legal t's are crossed and i's are dotted:

• Has the property officially become yours through probate? Double-check.
• Is the title clear? Make sure there are no surprises lurking.
• Any unpaid taxes or liens? Clear them up pronto.

2. Know What You've Got

Time to play detective:

• Hire a local appraiser who knows Vermont land like the back of their hand.
• Snoop around (legally, of course) to see what similar properties are selling for.
• Think about what makes your land special. Great views? Rich soil? A secret swimming hole?

3. Spruce It Up (Even If It's Just Land)

You wouldn't go on a first date without combing your hair, right? Same goes for your land:

• Clear out any junk. Nobody wants to buy a land-sized trash can.
• If it's overgrown, consider giving it a trim.
• Make sure folks can actually get to it without needing a machete.

4. Spread the Word

Time to shout from the mountaintops (or at least from your keyboard):

• Get some killer photos. Drone shots are the bee's knees for showcasing land.
• Craft a listing that paints a picture. "40 acres of potential" is boring. "40 acres where you can build your dream home and still have room for a herd of alpacas" - now that's interesting.
• Don't just rely on the MLS. Get on social media, local forums, anywhere your potential buyers might be hanging out online.

5. Think Outside the Box

Sometimes, the traditional route isn't the fastest:

• Consider an auction. It can light a fire under potential buyers.
• Look into land development companies. They might snap up your property in a heartbeat.
• If your land is a nature lover's paradise, chat with conservation groups.

6. Price It Right

This isn't the time to get greedy:

• Be realistic. An overpriced property will sit on the market longer than that fruitcake your aunt sends every Christmas.
• Consider pricing it just below market value. It can create a buzz and potentially lead to multiple offers.

7. Tap into Local Knowledge

Vermont's land market has its quirks. Don't go it alone:

• Find a real estate agent who eats, sleeps, and breathes Vermont land sales.
• A good land use attorney can be worth their weight in gold (or maple syrup).

8. Be Flexible

The more options you offer, the wider your net:

• Would you consider owner financing? It could open doors for more buyers.
• If you've got a big parcel, would you be open to selling it in pieces?

9. Don't Forget Uncle Sam

Taxes can take a big bite out of your profits:

• Talk to a tax pro about the implications of your sale.
• Ask about conservation easements. They might offer some tax perks.

10. Consider Cash Buyers

Want to sell faster than a downhill skier at Killington? Look into companies that specialize in buying land:

• Outfits like Land Boss (that's us!) offer cash purchases and can often close in weeks, not months or years.
• Sure, you might not get top dollar, but you'll get speed and certainty.

The Fast Track: Selling to Land Buyers

If time is of the essence, selling to a land buying company like ours can be a game-changer:

• We can often close in weeks, not months or years.
• Cash offers mean no waiting around for buyers to secure financing.
• You can skip the hassle of marketing, showings, and drawn-out negotiations.

At Land Boss, we've been in the land game for 5 years and have over 100 land deals under our belts. We know Vermont land like we know our favorite ski runs.

Final Thoughts

Selling inherited land in Vermont doesn't have to be a drawn-out ordeal. With the right approach and expectations, you can turn that inherited property into cash in your pocket faster than you might think.

Remember, whether you choose to list with an agent or sell to a land buying company, the key is to be informed, prepared, and realistic. Vermont's land market might be as varied as its landscape, but with these tips in your toolkit, you're well-equipped to navigate it successfully.

So, take a deep breath of that crisp Vermont air, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to turn your inherited land into your next big opportunity. Who knows? The perfect buyer for your slice of Vermont might be just around the corner.

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