Purchasing Real Estate in Today's Competitive Market
July 25, 2022

The It’s no secret that today’s real estate market is extremely competitive. With a shortage of available properties, low numbers of new listings, and high prices, many prospective home buyers are wondering how to find the property they want, and close on it successfully. Below are a few strategies that you can utilize when purchasing real estate in today’s market.


Time Is Money


As the old saying goes, time is certainly money in today’s real estate market. Homes are setting record lows for days on the market, averaging only 28 days here in Vermont. Sellers are frequently receiving multiple offers at — or even above — asking price. What is a hopeful buyer to do?


Get Pre-approved


One of the most important steps you can take when preparing to buy a house is to gain pre-approval for financing. Before going out to view properties, be sure to settle on a price range you are comfortable with, and get approved for financing within that range. This will ensure that — when you find a property you want to buy — your agent can quickly put together a mortgage approval letter, proving to sellers that your offer is serious and well financed.


Move Quickly


In order to stand out, buyers should seek to move as quickly as possible. Once you see a property, try to make a decision on whether or not to put in an offer as soon as possible. Other buyers are likely also interested in the property, and may be putting in their own offer shortly. The sooner your offer is in the seller’s hands, the more likely you are to strike a deal.


Make Reasonable Offers


Just as buyers are usually trying to find the best bargains for their money, sellers are seeking to make the most from the transaction. This means quick profits with minimal hassle. If your initial offer is an extreme low-ball, sellers are less likely to take you seriously, and may be more inclined to accept a competing offer from another buyer.

 


Be a Scrupulous Business Partner


The property you are interested in may have multiple problems that need resolved, but not all of them may must be fixed by the seller. If you have reached the stage of inspection, be sure to pick a professional you trust to give honest opinions on which defects need to be urgently addressed, and which are minor issues. If a seller feels that they are wasting their time or being taken advantage of, you are less likely to successfully close on that home.


Do I Need a Lawyer?


Working with an experienced Vermont real estate attorney can help you obtain the house of your dreams, even in today’s market. With legal representation, you can be certain that your offer is submitted swiftly and is attractive to the seller, while ensuring that you are not being taken advantage of.

 

Experienced counsel can provide helpful guidance for pricing and offers, which is invaluable in this market. Really, having a real estate lawyer with your best interests in mind is invaluable in any market. Your attorney can also assist you in deciding which issues must be brought to the seller’s attention, and which can be safely ignored.

 


Contact Deppman Law PLC Today

 

In short, having a lawyer on your side when purchasing in today’s fast-paced, competitive market can give you an edge over other buyers. Contact Deppman Law PLC today to learn more.

Protecting Your Small Business from Legal Disputes Before They Start

December 16, 2025
Running a small business involves balancing opportunity and risk. While disputes can’t always be avoided, many legal problems can be prevented with proactive planning and clear communication. Here are several ways small business owners can reduce legal risk before issues arise. Choose the Right Business Structure The legal structure of your business affects liability, taxes, and operations. Forming the right entity can help protect personal assets and clarify ownership responsibilities from the outset. Use Clear, Written Agreements Handshake deals and informal arrangements often lead to misunderstandings. Well-drafted contracts with customers, vendors, and partners help set expectations and reduce disputes over payment, performance, deliverables, or scope of work. Review Commercial Leases Carefully Commercial leases often contain long-term obligations and hidden costs. Understanding lease terms before signing can prevent costly surprises and future conflicts with landlords. Address Employment Issues Early Clear policies, proper classification of workers, and consistent practices can help prevent disputes with employees or contractors. Early legal guidance can help ensure compliance and reduce exposure. Plan for Disagreements Even healthy businesses encounter conflict. Including dispute resolution provisions in contracts and addressing issues promptly can help resolve problems before they escalate into litigation. Proactive legal planning isn’t about expecting failure—it’s about building a strong foundation that allows your business to operate with confidence and flexibility. Call Deppman Law PLC If you own or are starting a small business and want to reduce legal risk before problems arise, Deppman Law PLC can help. We work with Vermont business owners to put practical safeguards in place and address issues early. Contact Deppman Law PLC to schedule a consultation and protect your business’s future.

When Should You Talk to a Lawyer? Common Situations Where Early Advice Matters

November 17, 2025
People frequently wait to contact a lawyer until a problem feels urgent or unavoidable. By that point, costs may be higher and stress levels are often elevated. In many situations, speaking with a lawyer early can help prevent small issues from becoming much larger ones. Here are some common scenarios where early legal advice can make a meaningful difference. Before Signing a Contract Whether it’s a lease, business agreement, vendor contract, or settlement document, contracts carry long-term consequences. A quick review before signing can help identify unclear terms, unexpected obligations, or risks you may not have noticed. During Major Life Changes Events like marriage, divorce, having children, or buying property often trigger legal considerations. Early guidance can help ensure important steps—such as updating estate plans or addressing property rights—aren’t overlooked. When Starting or Growing a Business Choosing the right business structure, drafting agreements, and understanding liability risks are much easier at the beginning than after problems arise. Early legal planning can protect both personal and business assets. If a Dispute Is Developing If tensions are rising with a tenant, business partner, neighbor, or family member, early advice can help you understand your rights and avoid actions that could escalate the situation or weaken your position. After an Injury or Property Incident Whether you were injured or someone was hurt on your property, early legal input can help preserve important information and guide next steps before statements are made or deadlines are missed. Talking to a lawyer doesn’t mean you’re headed for court. In many cases, it’s about understanding your options, clarifying risks, and making informed decisions before a situation becomes more complicated. Call Deppman Law PLC If you’re facing a legal question or simply wondering whether you should speak with an attorney, Deppman Law PLC is here to help. We offer practical guidance designed to address issues early and thoughtfully. Contact Deppman Law PLC to schedule a consultation and get clear answers before problems grow.