It might be 10° outside in February… but make no mistake — the Upper Valley market never really hibernates.
Whether you’re looking in Lebanon, Hanover, Norwich, Enfield, Grantham, Hartford, Woodstock, or along Mascoma or Sunapee, buying a home in the Upper Valley of New Hampshire and Vermont requires strategy, timing, and local insight.
And that’s where I come in.
I’m Brendan Callahan — a full-time Realtor® serving buyers across the Upper Valley — and here’s what you need to know before you start scrolling Zillow at midnight.
Why Buyers Love the Upper Valley
The Upper Valley is unique.
You get:
- Dartmouth and DHMC driving a strong local economy
- Access to skiing (Killington, Okemo, Sunapee)
- Lakes, hiking, and year-round outdoor recreation
- Charming downtowns like Hanover, Lebanon, and Woodstock
- No state income tax in NH
But inventory can be tight — and the good homes move quickly.
Buying here isn’t just about liking a house. It’s about understanding:
- Micro-markets (Hanover Lebanon Norwich)
- School districts
- Property taxes (big NH vs VT differences)
- Septic systems, wells, and rural zoning
- Short-term rental rules
- Competitive offer strategies
The Truth About Buying in Today’s Upper Valley Market
Even as inventory improves seasonally, we’re still in a market where:
- Well-priced homes can receive multiple offers
- Inspection strategy matters
- Pre-approval strength matters
- Terms can win over price
Many buyers lose homes not because of price — but because of structure.
That’s where having a strategic agent matters.
Before you write an offer, we talk through:
- How competitive the property is
- Seller motivations
- Days on market
- Comparable sales
- Financing strength
- Escalation clauses (when appropriate)
- Inspection positioning
Buying is part data, part psychology.
First-Time Buyer? Move-Up Buyer? Relocating?
I work with:
First-Time Buyers
We break down:
- What you can realistically afford
- True monthly payment (PITI)
- Down payment strategy
- Inspection education
- Long-term resale value
Relocating to the Upper Valley
If you’re moving for Dartmouth, DHMC, or a remote lifestyle shift:
- We compare NH vs VT tax structures
- Commute times
- Internet access in rural areas
- School systems
- Neighborhood feel
Second Home & Investment Buyers
Upper Valley buyers often want:
- Ski access
- Lake proximity
- Short-term rental potential
Local zoning and STR rules vary significantly by town — and that matters.
What Makes Working With Me Different?
I approach real estate like I coach.
Strategy first. Clear communication. No panic.
With over a decade in leadership and negotiation, I guide buyers through:
- Offer strategy
- Inspection negotiations
- Appraisal hurdles
- Financing communication
- Keeping emotions in check
Buying a home is competitive — but it doesn’t have to feel chaotic.
Towns I Serve Across the Upper Valley
- Lebanon, NH
- Hanover, NH
- Enfield, NH
- Grantham, NH
- Plainfield, NH
- Norwich, VT
- Hartford, VT
- Woodstock, VT
- And surrounding Grafton & Windsor County communities
If you’re searching for:
“Best Realtor in Upper Valley NH”
“Buying a home in Lebanon NH”
“Upper Valley VT real estate buyers agent”
You’re in the right place.
Thinking About Buying in 2026?
Here’s the truth:
The buyers who win are the ones who prepare early.
That means:
- Getting pre-approved
- Setting up an MLS portal
- Understanding true budget
- Having a game plan
If you’re even considering buying this year, let’s have a strategy conversation.
No pressure. Just clarity.
Let’s Build Your Plan
Brendan Callahan
Susan Cole Realty Group
📍 Serving the Upper Valley of NH & VT
📱 603-443-3149
📧 brendan@susancolerealty.com
🌐 www.brendancallahanre.com
