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Have you noticed an upward trend in parents opting to move closer to kids and grandchildren? Perhaps you've made the move yourself. Retired grandparents see laying down new roots near their grown children a better way to connect with family and play an important role in the lives of their grandchildren. The common practice of remaining in your hometown after high school or returning home after college began to die out in the latter part of the 20
th
century. College graduates in particular found it difficult to find work in small towns and communities and moved to pursue careers in areas with greater opportunity. But now as these same adults are having families, grandparents see they are missing out on things like watching their grandchildren learn to walk, playing catch, seeing their first dance or piano recital or cheering their grandkids on at t-ball, soccer and other sports. They value how it felt for them growing up seeing their own grandparents in the auditorium or bleachers. Deborah and Robert Brown are among a growing number of grandparents exploring a new home at Mountain View Meadows to be closer to family. Their first grandchild, three-month-old Charlie, captured their hearts the day he was born and they can't get enough of him. With four recent trips to Helena to check out all the possibilities at Mountain View Meadows from single-level condos to classic craftsman Carriage Homes to building a new Aspen Park custom home, the Browns are keeping their options open. But first and foremost is building a lasting bond with their new grandson, and that just might be the best value in a new home ever!
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Building a Better Community:
HOME SHOW & LIFESTYLE EXPO
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Over 175 vendors will show off their home and lifestyle products March 28
th
and 29th
at the annual HBIA Builder's Home Show & Lifestyle Expo at the Lewis & Clark County Fairgrounds. It's a one-of-a-kind local opportunity to check out the latest home design trends and meet builders and contractors ready and able to make your new home build or home renovation a reality. The $5 entry fee opens the door to chances to win prizes and to pick up candy and tchotchkes, like keychains and ink pens, at nearly every booth, easily worth the cost of admission. While you browse, your kids can play in the Sandbox and enjoy activities like free face painting and DIY Kids Workshops. If you're hungry or thirsty, local food vendors will be on hand to serve you including craft beer from Crooked Furrow Brewing and specialty coffee by 1889 Coffee House. And if your feet need a break, kick back on the vibrating chair at the Mountain View Meadows booth located on the south end of the exhibit hall. Mark and Rebecca will be there and would love to say hi! Doors open at 9:00 AM on Saturday and 10:00 AM Sunday. Expect this year's show to be better than ever. "From trades and skills, to finance and lifestyle, the 2020 Home Show & Lifestyle Expo has something for everyone!"
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On Topic:
SPRING CLEANING YOUR HOME'S EXTERIOR
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March: In like a lion out like a lamb? If you are living in Montana, the unusually mild winter may have you thinking ahead to the annual spring cleaning of the interior of your home. But what about the exterior? To stave off expensive repairs down the road and to give your home the love it deserves for providing you cozy warmth and shelter all winter, now is the time to take action.
For 30 years Bob Vila hosted TV shows This Old House, Bob Vila's Home again and Restore America with Bob Vila. But before TV fame, Vila owned his own residential remodeling and design business. His website, Bobvila.com offers home and lawn advice for every season including a recent article on spring cleaning your home's exterior.
"It's no mere glamour exercise," says Donna Swartz on Bobvila.com. "Outdoor upkeep is important for health and safety, and for the proper functioning and longevity of some critical house components." But where to start and what to do? Here is what Swartz says:
1. TAKE A WALK
Walk around your property to survey its condition. Along the way, gather fallen branches and remove plantings that didn't survive. Move on to inspecting outdoor structures for damage and noting necessary repairs, such as loose fence boards or missing shed shingles. Test your outdoor plumbing and take stock of lawn and garden equipment.
2. CLEAR YOUR GUTTERS
Responsible homeowners clean the gutters twice each year-once in fall and again in early spring. It's a dreaded task, but a critically important one.
3. RENEW YOUR SIDING
After a long, harsh winter, your siding may emerge worse for wear. Give it a facelift with a hose wand.
4. WASH YOUR WINDOWSs
Window cleaning may be the quintessential spring upkeep task. The trouble is that if you're washing only the interior side of the glass, you're leaving the project half done.
5. PREP PAVED SURFACES
Somewhere down there, under a grimy, salt-speckled haze, is the paved surface of your driveway, front walk, or backyard patio. Clean away the effects of winter, not only to restore the aesthetic appeal of these areas, but also to promote their longevity.
6. MAKE PATIO FURNITURE SPARKLE
At your first backyard cookout, you certainly don't want to be surrounded by last season's dirt, grime, and mildew. Whether your patio furniture is made of metal, glass, wicker, or vinyl upholstery, give it a deep clean with soap and water and products specifically designed to remove mildew.
7. REFRESH YOUR DECK
Give the deck a thorough cleaning over, under, and around boards and railings.
8. CLEAN YOUR ROOF
Remove buildup of pine needles and other debris in those valleys between roof peaks.
No one said that home ownership is easy. It takes work. Showing off your well-cared-for home, both inside and out, lets your family, friends and neighbors know that you take pride in your home. Sprucing up the exterior in the spring gives you time to relax and enjoy the fruits of your labors throughout the summer. It doesn't get much better than that!
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Benefits and Updates:
MOUNTAIN VIEW MEADOWS
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1.
PET STATION BAGS: Pet stations around the neighborhoods and along the Fun & Fitness Trail seem to be having a positive impact. Please notify the office by email at
[email protected] if you see a station that's out of bags and we'll replenish it right away.
2.
ANNUAL HOA MEETING:
Please join your HOA Officers and Board of Directors for the annual meeting on March 19th in the lower level banquet hall at Jorgenson's on 11
th
Ave. Enjoy a short social with light refreshments starting at 6:30 PM followed by the business meeting at 7:00 PM. We'll be drawing for gift cards throughout the evening. This is also a great opportunity to review the annual budget, get updates on improvement projects and ask questions, make comments and offer suggestions. Nominations will be accepted during the meeting for serving in open officer positions. Self-nominating is welcome!
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New Homes F
or Sale:
PLANS TO BUILD AND BUILD TO SUIT
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A choice of new homes to meet your lifestyle and budget are ready for move-in at Mountain View Meadows with more under construction. MVM now has a number of home sites that are eligible for 0% down loans. Visit our Information & Sales Office at 431 S. Alice Street to tour our right-now homes, view plans to build and check out lot maps. Realtors are always welcome
. Have your own plan? Give us a call at 406-449-0800 to arrange a meeting. The availability of new homes and lots is subject to change so check back often. Below is a listing of some of the new homes ready for move-in or currently under construction.
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Craftsman Village at Mountain View Meadows
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2870, 2872 & 2874 Runkle Parkway:
Another popular 3-unit condo building on Runkle Parkway, all with outstanding views of the Elkhorn Mountains. Two single-story 1635 S.F. 3BD/2BA units flank a 1932 S.F. 2-story with 3 upstairs bedrooms and an additional TV/entertainment room. All three homes have attached 2-car garages and front covered porches plus the single-story plans come with covered outdoor living spaces out back. Hurry in to tour these homes, talk pricing and stake your claim. For more information please call 406-449-0800.
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2880 & 2882 Runkle Parkway:
New 1219 S.F. duplex condos with great views of the Elkhorns! Condos back up to an open space park. Condo features 2 bedrooms and 2 baths, a pocket desk, an attached 2-car garage and a covered outdoor living space. Design amenities include granite countertops, soft-close cabinets, water-resistant laminate flooring, tiled laundry, baths and entry, and carpeted bedrooms. Electric range, refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher and garbage disposal included! Monthly condo fee is $130 and pays for sidewalk snow removal, mowing and landscaping care as well as exterior building insurance and maintenance. Priced at $254,900. Call now! 406-449-0800.
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2857 & 2859 Twilight Avenue:
New 1219 S.F. duplex condos scheduled for completion beginning of May -- Absolutely perfect for the "downsizer" or the "first time" home buyer! Condo features 2 bedrooms and 2 baths, a pocket desk, an attached 2-car garage and a covered outdoor living space. Design amenities include granite countertops, soft-close cabinets, water-resistant laminate flooring, tiled laundry, baths and entry, and carpeted bedrooms. Electric range, refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher and garbage disposal included! Monthly condo fee is $130 and pays for sidewalk snow removal, mowing and landscaping care as well as exterior building insurance and maintenance. Priced at $254,900. Call now! 406-449-0800.
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2869, 2875 & 2877 Vista Avenue:
Brand new Condo floorplan! "Vista" Condos feature rear decks overlooking open space draw with unobstructed mountain views. Street entry into attached 2-car garage with an additional concrete parking pad for your guests. Interior details include open great room with stunning views, 10' tray ceilings, granite countertops, soft-close cabinets, raised breakfast bar, stainless steel appliances, tiled wet areas, and master bath with double vanity and walk-in tiled shower. Contract pending on 2875 but 2869 & 2877 are still available, but hurry! These absolutely will be gone before you know it! 1635 S.F. Condos $309,900. 1660 S.F. Condo $315,000.
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235 Bella View: "THE TOWN HALL".
A classic you'll love to live in right across from Mountain View Park! Over 1900 S.F., this 2-story craftsman 4-square offers 3 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths and an upstairs nursery or TV room. A fireplace, central air, side patio, full-front porch and an attached 2-car garage are only a few of the features that make this house the place to call home. Start off the new year right by calling 449-0800 for a tour today. Priced at $339,900.
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2850 Alexis Avenue: "THE FRONTIER". This 1800 S.F. single-level home was featured in the 2019 Parade of Homes! It has an exceptional open concept with clean lines and quality finishes. This 3BD/2BA with a 2 car attached garage maximizes space and function. Granite countertops from Silver City Stone, Mohawk flooring, walk in custom tile shower in master, 8 foot steel ceiling fan and other incredible features. For more information, contact Jared Engels at 406-461-4025. MLS# 21916648. Priced at $319,500.
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2874 Alexis Avenue: "THE RANCHER".
This new 1836 S.F. single-story, 3BD/2BA Sierra Custom Home is just the ticket if you love great views and access to parks and trails. The Rancher features a generous front porch, a covered side outdoor living space, an upscale master ensuite, granite countertops, laminate flooring, arched entryways, 9' ceilings, gas fireplace, and stainless-steel appliances. For additional information call Dawn Purvis at 439-6380. MLS #22001227. $349,900.
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255 Bella View: "THE PROSPECTOR".
2210 finished square feet with an attached 3-car garage makes this 3BD/2.5BA 2-story one of the most desirable floorplans available in Craftsman Village. Located directly across from Mountain View Park, your new home boasts a large open great room and half bath on the main floor with an interior covered patio off the kitchen and a huge loft on the upper floor flanked by two bedrooms to the rear and a spacious master suite with park views. Just finishing framing, this Sierra Custom Home will be completed in plenty of time to enjoy a summer by the park. For additional information call 449-0800.
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2905 Stacia Avenue: "THE ASTER".
New 2BD/2BA single-story craftsman garden home featuring granite countertops, soft-close cabinets, kitchen appliances and an attached 2-car garage. Comes complete with U.G. water system, front and carriage-lane landscaping and side yard fencing. To tour this home today, please call 449-0800. $239,900.
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The Uplands at Mountain View Meadows
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363 Elouise Cobell: This 3BD/2BA single-story Sierra Custom Home is well underway! With 1591 S.F. a few of the amenities in this home include a gas fireplace, coffered 9' ceilings, covered porches, granite countertops, soft close cabinets, tile floor in baths and laundry, stainless steel appliances, and an attached 2-car garage. For more information stop by the Sales Office at 431 S. Alice Street or call 406-449-0800.
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371 Elouise Cobell:
Beautiful Sierra Custom Home under construction with all the upscale details you'll love from coffered ceilings, arched entryways and a gas fireplace to a tiled walk-in master shower, double vanity and water closet. This exceptional 3BD/2BA 1700 S.F. floorplan includes a tiled laundry/mud room directly off the attached 2-car garage, a large walk-in pantry, a Café off the kitchen and open great room, and a large kitchen island. Sit on your covered front porch or relax on your private covered rear deck or just enjoy upscale living in your new Sierra home, but hurry in! Call 406-449-0800 for an appointment.
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Aspen Park at Mountain View Meadows
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ASPEN PARK: This view could be yours, but hurry! There are only two walk-out lots facing the Elkhorns still available in Phase I. Stop by the office at 431 S. Alice Street to discuss your plan for a new home at Aspen Park. We'll help you choose the perfect lot and connect you with the best builder to make your dream home a reality.
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Neighborhood:
"BEST NEIGHBOR" AWARD NOMINEES
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The nominations are in! Four nominations have been received for the first annual "Best Neighbor Award" at Mountain View Meadows. The winner will be announced at the annual HOA meeting on Thursday, March 19th. The following neighbors have been nominated for their kindness and consideration to neighbors and their neighborhoods:
- MIKAELA & LOGAN MONDAY, nominated for serving hot cider to all on Halloween.
- DARLA OROPEZA & SANDI CARSEN, nominated for organizing the first community-wide garage sale
- MARY LEE VAN VOAST, nominated for "My Little Free Library"
- TASHA HERMAN, nominated for her honesty in turning in $40 found money
We hope each of the nominees will attend the meeting so that all can be recognized for their contributions to making Mountain View Meadows the best place to live in Helena!
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Tammy Crumley
Is enjoying her gorgeous 2-story "Iris" in Craftsman Village.
Sheila Harrison
Is thrilled with her lovely "Aster" Garden Home in Craftsman Village.
Scott Johnson & Laura Bruggeman
Just closed on their wonderful "Primrose" Garden Home in Craftsman Village.
Rachel Weiss
Is getting settled into her beautiful Craftsman Condo with magnificent mountain views.
Congrat
ulations!
And Welcome to the Neighborhood!
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Fun & Fitness
DIY FENCING PROJECT
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According to verywellfit.com, a 150-pound woman can burn 400 calories during a fencing fitness workout. But did you know you can burn 238 calories an hour with a DIY fence improvement project in your own backyard? Todayshomeowner.com says yes and here is how they say you do it!
Start your fencing project workout by wielding a power washer to remove the surface layer of aged wood cells to expose a fresh layer of wood. Take care not to erode the wood too deeply and ruin it. The key is to use the right sprayer tip and technique. In any case, the power washer's spray will slightly raise and roughen the grain on smooth wood. That's actually good--it allows more sealer to soak in and improves the finish.
Take a break from your workout by allowing a minimum of 24 hours for the wood to dry. Once thoroughly dry, brush a wood preservative into the posts around the base to help prevent rot at this vulnerable area. Bending and leaning to apply the preservative burns additional calories per hour.
Next, lean into your workout using a paint roller with a "medium nap" cover to apply a soaking coat of stain to the wood. Make sure the stain contains ultraviolet inhibitors, which will slow down bleaching by sunlight, and a mildewcide to slow fungal growth. Let the wood absorb as much sealer as it can. Coat about 3 ft. of the fence, then proceed to brush out the sealer into the wood.
Work the stain into small and tight areas with a trim roller and a 2-in. brush. One generous coat should be enough.
A DIY fence improvement project provides a great fitness workout with additional health benefits. Saving money and increasing your home's value is sure to reduce stress and improve your mental well-being.
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Most people know that development, especially with a project as complex as Mountain View Meadows, happens in phases. Phases take months of planning, meetings and approvals, each and every one built around a multitude of decisions before any dirt is moved, any pipe laid and any street paved. Mixed into decisions for every phase of development is feedback from residents and potential buyers, community goals and a whole lot of research. Years may elapse between a conceptual plan to the actual development phase. In the meantime there can be any number of social lifestyle and technological changes. We try our best not to get locked into an idea that may no longer be relevant and to remain open to new ideas and trends. When the first dirt moved fifteen years ago, no one thought about electric charging stations for cars. Now it is on our radar for amenities under consideration. And what about solar powered homes? That once seemed economically prohibitive, but maybe not so much now. Every step of development from shovels in the ground to roofs on homes to trees in boulevards takes a decision. We can't promise to always make the decision right for every individual, but we promise to do our best to make the right decisions that benefit our community.
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