Vermont is very popular right now because of how well we did (are doing) with covid, low population density, it’s natural beauty, clean air, for people fleeing red states, and because we’ve been designated as the state least likely to be impacted by climate change.

Might be more reasons. Those are the ones I know of.

It’s also not in the meth top 10. Source: https://healingproperties.org/meth-in-america-state-by-state/

The above is mostly correct except I think right now we are in a plateau due to both the interest rates being high and AirBnB bookings being in a decline, with exception of very popular locations like ski towns.

Prices aren’t really dropping nor will they, like above said even in 2008 VT was pretty unaffected, but some homes are sitting on the market a bit longer so it’s not as dire to find a place as it was 2 years ago.

Overall, if you can’t afford to buy now, then that prob won’t change anytime soon unless you increase your income significantly or can get together a solid down payment, or both. Best of luck tho.