Cloud virtual machine customization using extension framework

In various embodiments, methods and systems for remotely customizing a virtual machine in a cloud computing infrastructure are provided. A VM agent component provided on a virtual machine, while in communication with a VM deployment service associated therewith, can be configured to detect an incoming configuration payload that corresponds to a selected one or more extension packages cataloged on a VM marketplace component in communication with the VM deployment service component. Employing the configuration payload, the VM agent component can initialize communication with the extension repository to retrieve the one or more extension packages for storage and installation onto the virtual machine. Upon installing the one or more extension packages, the VM agent component can be configured to communicate a status report to the VM deployment service component for provision to an administrator.