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It takes a team to build a home. It also takes a team to buy and sell a home. An active housing market in Helena has realtors and lenders busy helping first-time buyers achieve the dream of home ownership and move-up buyers and "downsizers" find a new home that better fits their changing lifestyles. Builders have homes to sell, and move-up buyers and downsizers typically have a home to sell as well. Realtors move the process along so that homes get sold and buyers get what they want. And whether it's a first home or a change in lifestyle, nearly every buyer reaches out to a lender to help finance their new home. A great example of team work played out during the second annual Mountain View Meadows Community Open House Event when eight brand new homes were available for tour with another nine single-family homes and condos under construction. Each available home or model home was hosted by a realtor and a lender who teamed together to answer questions and provide information to people touring the homes. Julie Boyer of First Community Bank and Lisa Pickens of Valley Bank were on hand to assist Dawn Purvis and Shauna Smith with Century 21 at several new Sierra Custom Homes. John Mullen and Dean Mogstad from Premier Mortgage helped out at two WeatherAll built homes hosted by KellerWilliams agent, Anna Havrenek. Toni Lake with First Community Bank welcomed buyers into a new home for sale on Elouise Cobell while Rex Walsh from Stockman bank was on hand with Dan Senecal of Big Sky Brokers at a home across the street. Mann Mortgage agents Betsy Rispens and Amber Guino showed off the popular single-story condos off Alice Street and Runkle Parkway. Throughout the four-hour event, the Mountain View Meadows Sales & Information Center was open to pass out drinks, food and brochures to the nearly 100 people who attended the event. The Center, open weekdays and by appointment nights and weekends, assists realtors in showing homes for their clients and providing contact information for lenders. As an important member of the team, it supports builders with homes to sell, buyers in search of a new home and realtors in finding the right home for their clients.
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Building a Better Community:
WEST MONT 25TH ANNUAL BLACK TIE BLUE JEAN BENEFIT
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It's that time of year again! Dust off your cowboy boots and get ready to have a boot scootin' boogie good time. West Mont will hold its 25
th
annual benefit event on Friday, September 21, at the Best Western Great Northern Hotel. Enjoy a delicious dinner, auctions and a performance by the famous West Mont Cheer Squad. The evening includes the "Wall of Wine" and a raffle to win your choice of live auction items. Guest Master of Ceremonies is KTVH TV meteorologist, Curtis Grevenitz. Tickets are $85 each or $650 for a table of 8 and $800 for a table of 10. West Mont, a 501 (c)3 non-profit organization, works to create opportunities that promote respect and quality of life for people with disabilities.
West Mont recently received three grants for much needed improvements at its Farm & Garden site on York Road which provides housing and 24-26 agricultural-related jobs for persons with disabilities. A $150,000 M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust grant will be used to build an additional bedroom at the site and major renovations to bathrooms and a laundry room and to pay for a new fire sprinkler system. The Farm & Garden is currently open to visitors Monday through Friday, 9-3 selling tomatoes and pumpkins. For additional information or to purchase tickets to the benefit event, call 406-447-3100.
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On Topic:
WOMEN VS. MEN IN HOME PREFERENCES
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Generally speaking, men and women want the same thing in a home: comfort, security and well-being. And, of course, they want a home that will maintain its value. But men and women tend to view homes differently. Even during the buying process, women and men consider homes from different perspectives, with men more likely to place cost as the priority and women value.
Contributing to an article by Camilla McLaughlin in New Home Source, John, Egnatis, CEO of Dallas-based Grenadier Homes points out that "Much of what draws people [to a home] is a matter of personal preference. However," says Egnatis, "when comparing them as gender groups, there are still some factors that appeal more often to women than to men, and vice versa."
According to Egnatis, women look for features that make life easier. They like low-maintenance features that are visually appealing and/or functional, but don't require a lot of upkeep. And they want a home that looks and feels nice. On the other hand, men tend to give more weight to how close the home is to other places they frequent, like work, their favorite bar or the golf course.
"We are always thinking about how spaces will hit a note with men," says Jill DiDonna, vice president of GL Homes, the largest homebuilder in south Florida. "There is a certain notion about men, where having a space to gather with friends or to watch sports is something they desire. So, we might think about how a space would function as a pub room as opposed to a flex space
."
Other considerations by gender include:
Women:
- Closets & storage space
- Plenty of outlets along countertops
- A utility sink in the garage
- A large laundry room with space to fold clothes
- A serene and relaxing master bath
- Natural light
- Quality of neighborhood/neighbors
- Community amenities
- Architectural details and landscaping
Men:
- The mechanics of the home
- An office or study (though increasingly desirable to both genders)
- Extra garage space
- A place for a big TV with comfortable space for viewing
- A private room (The man cave)
Though the distinctions between what men and women are looking for in a home are less pronounced than they used to be,
both DiDonna and Egnatis agree that women now play a bigger role in the buying process and often take the lead in decision-making. With this change in mind, builders are paying more attention to what women want.
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Benefits and Updates:
MOUNTAIN VIEW MEADOWS
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1.
PET WASTE STATIONS:
Your HOA is currently in the process of purchasing Pet Waste Stations with doo-doo bags to remind pet owners to clean up after their dogs. Mountain View Meadows is a pet-friendly community where responsible pet ownership is essential to the health and well-being of neighbors. Always clean up after your pet even if you are walking along the Fun & Fitness Trail. And never allow your pet to leave behind a mess on a neighbor's property. It's just not nice.
2. TRAFFIC SPEED STUDY: A study is underway to provide the HOA with the information it needs for the city to lower the speed limit along Mountain View Park and the school bus loading and unloading area and core residential area between the Craftsman Village and Antelope Trace neighborhoods. Please slow down when traveling up the Alice Street hill north of the park through to Runkle Parkway to the south. Let's work together to slow down and keep our kids safe!
3. CHANGING SEASONS: It won't be long now till fall sets in. And before we know it, Halloween! So here is an early reminder that Mountain View Meadows sponsors an annual Fall/Halloween decorating contest with cash prizes. Our community is becoming increasingly popular with kids and families looking for a safe and fun place to trick-or-treat. So start thinking now what you can do to join in the fun and delight and fright your neighbors this Halloween.
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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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Antelope Trace at Mountain View Meadows
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2789 Favor Loop: "THE WISE". Until you see it, you won't believe the upscale feel of this 2414 S.F. 3 or 4 bedroom/2.5 bath home. It has it all--- front door sidelites, open 2-story floor to ceiling entryway with chandelier, main floor master suite, luxury bath, air conditioning, fireplace, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, soft-close cabinets, separate dining room and front and rear covered porches. Close to completion, now is the time to buy this brand new home just two blocks from Mountain View Park. Call 406-431-7680 for a private tour any day of the week. $349,900.
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The Uplands at Mountain View Meadows
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379 Elouise Cobell: "THE ELK PARK". This nearly completed 3BD/2BA home is one of the best new plans available in The Uplands neighborhood. With a look and feel that exceeds its 1900 S. F. floorplan, you'll fall in love with The Elk Park's tall 9' ceilings, vaulted great room and master bedroom and luxury master ensuite boasting two walk-in closets, double vanity, soaking tub, tiled shower, private water closet and natural light. The kitchen features granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, an island bar, pantry and separate dining area while a gas fireplace sets off the great room. You'll enjoy both the distant mountain views and city lights from your covered front porch and have plenty of privacy for BBQ's and entertaining on your covered rear patio. And wait till you see the huge storage closets in the bonus room over the garage! The Elk Park comes complete with air conditioning and gas hookup for those who wish to upgrade to a gas range. For a private tour, visit the MVM Information & Sales Center at 431 S. Alice St. $319,900.
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366 Elouise Cobell: "THE WHITEFISH".
Beautiful new home underway is in easy walking distance to the Blue Cross Blue Shield Headquarters. Impressive front courtyard entry and large covered rear patio for outdoor living set this home apart. Built by family owned Grewett Construction, known for their rustic wood finishes and exceptional craftsmanship, this new 3BD/3BA floorplan includes an open vaulted great room with gas fireplace, vaulted master ensuite, study, huge walk-in pantry and spacious laundry room/owner's entry off an oversized 2-car garage. Better keep a close eye on this one or you'll miss a great opportunity to own this awesome 1975 S.F. executive-style home! $329,900.
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340 Elouise Cobell: "THE TARGHEE". 1769 S.F. 3BD/2BA Sierra Custom Home with attached 2-car garage just getting started, walking distance from Blue Cross Blue Shield. This new home features granite throughout, tiled shower, arched entryways and a large kitchen island. Contact Dawn Purvis at Century 21 for additional information. $315,900.
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Craftsman Village at Mountain View Meadows
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2856 Alexis Avenue: "THE TRADER".
This popular 2-story plan features 3BD/2.5BA with all the standard upgrades you've come to expect in homes at Mountain View Meadows. Although this new home under construction has a contract pending, this is a great opportunity to check it out and make plans to build your own down the street. This 1485 S.F. craftsman Carriage Home is affordably priced in the low $260's.
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2838 Alexis Avenue: "THE SENATOR". With over 1900 S.F., this luxurious single-story Sierra Custom Home with a covered side patio and inviting front porch gives you the lifestyle you've always wanted. You'll enjoy waking up on a quiet street and taking leisurely walks to Mountain View Park, less than a block away. Currently under construction, now is the time to buy this home and look forward to a new year living in comfort and style. $339,900.
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2862 Alexis Avenue: "THE COACH HOUSE".
If you're looking for a 3-car garage that comes standard, then this 1481 S.F. single-story plan is for you! The Coach House features granite countertops, soft-close cabinets, laminate flooring and all your essential kitchen appliances. Your new home includes free front yard and rear carriage lane (alley) landscaping. Stop by the Information & Sales office at 431 S. Alice St. to review the plan. If you hurry, there is still time to choose paint colors on this brand new home currently under construction priced at only $269,900.
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2884 Stacia: "THE YARROW".
3BD/1.5BA 1223 S.F. Garden Home well underway features granite countertops, soft-close cabinets, laminate flooring and kitchen appliances.
Side yard fence included plus free front yard and rear carriage lane landscaping! Easy walking distance to Mountain View Park. For additional information, please stop by the MVM Information & Sales Center at 431 S. Alice St.
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2888 Stacia: "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. Contact Dawn Purvis, Century21, at 406-439-6380.
MLS#301380. $229,900.
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2860, 2862 & 2864 Runkle Parkway:
THREE NEW CONDOS with amazing mountain views! Two 1635 S.F. single-story condos (one with a contract pending) and an 1812 S.F. two-story in between. Single-story condos feature 2 or 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, tray ceilings, great room, separate dining, attached 2-car garage, front porch and rear, private, outdoor living space. All this for only $289,900! The 3BD/2.5BA two-story condo features a spacious main floor great room, an upstairs loft/TV room, front porch and an attached 2-car garage for $259,900. Stop by now to take a look at the floor plans and claim your condo before they're all gone!
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Aspen Park at Mountain View Meadows
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2930 Big Timber Loop: "THE OPEN RANGE". NEW UPSCALE CONTEMPORARY CRAFTSMAN HOME has 2748 totally finished S.F. This home features a vaulted living room, corner fireplace, raised breakfast bar, walk-in pantry, den/office, wood floors, doors and trim, granite countertops, knotty-alder soft-close cabinets, "subway" tile backsplash, separate dining, and a gorgeous master suite with double vanity, tiled shower and soaker tub. The home includes an owner's entry with bench and cubby hole shelves and central air with three separate zones. An over sized garage, stone and timber exterior features, a concrete tile roof with a 75 year warranty, HardiePlank siding, a beautiful front porch entry and a huge covered outdoor living space are among the many amenities that set this home apart. Drop by the Information & Sales Center at 431 S. Alice Street to check out this brand new 3 or 4BD/ 2.5BA home -- an unbeatable value at only $419,900! MLS#300407. Contact Anna Havranek at KellerWilliams at 406-438-1141 for a private showing.
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2883 Alpine View Loop: BRAND NEW single-story Sierra Custom Home. This beautiful home has 2254 finished S.F. including 4BD/2BA featuring a beautiful master suite, gas fireplace, granite countertops, 3-car garage, covered outdoor living space (front & back), HardiePlank siding, concrete tile roof, and stone and timber exterior accents. Priced at $399,900. Stop by the Information & Sales office or contact Dawn Purvis, Century 21 for more information. MLS#300186.
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Neighborhood:
KUDOS TO TWO OF THE BEST PET OWNERS!
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Lisa and Julie get together almost daily to walk their dogs Baja, Roxy and Buddy. Not only do they take full advantage of friendly conversation, exercise and shared interests, but they provide a special opportunity for their four-legged companions to hang out with friends as well. We often see Lisa and Julie walking their dogs down the Fun & Fitness Trail and over to the dog park and know that we never, ever have to worry that Baja, Roxy or Buddy are ever going to leave a mess in front of our office or anywhere along their route. Why? Because Lisa and Julie always clean up their pets' doggy-doo. They are two of the most responsible pet owners in Mountain View Meadows and set the bar for everyone else on what it means to be a great neighbor. So, here is a shout out and a great big thank you to Lisa and Julie for being among the best pet owners in our neighborhood!
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Leanora Coles
Has moved into her lovely new home built by Casteel Construction in our Uplands neighborhood.
David & Stephanie Thunstrom
Are settling into their beautiful brand new Sierra Custom Home.
Rhea Kuchynka
Is ready to move into her new Courtyard Condo by Weatherall Builders.
Carmel & Mikaela Hofer
Are moving into one of our newly completed Craftsman Garden Homes.
Congrat
ulations!
And Welcome to the Neighborhood!
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Fun & Fitness:
SAND VOLLEYBALL
In Your Backyard
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You don't have to be mighty or young to enjoy the game of volleyball. Volleyball is a great sport that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels.
Aside from the pure enjoyment of the game, volleyball has many benefits, says Gayle Hope from Athletico. First, it's a fun way to burn calories. Playing 45 minutes of volleyball can burn up to 585 calories. Volleyball also improves muscle strength and tone. The activities required when playing volleyball strengthen the upper body, arms, shoulders, thighs, abdominals, and lower legs. In addition, volleyball improves hand-eye coordination, reflexes, and balance. Last but not least, volleyball teaches teamwork and communication and is a great social activity.
To prevent injury, participants should:
- Perform a warm-up consisting of stretching and light aerobic activity prior to play
- Wear appropriate shoes with skid-resistant soles
- Clean off the courts before play -- look for slippery spots if playing indoors and look for debris if playing outdoors in the sand or grass
- Allow for adequate recovery
So grab a few friends and head to Mountain View Park to enjoy the many benefits of volleyball and have some fun!
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Danielle Prebil and Jonathon Starkey pulled off a beautiful and touching wedding ceremony August 18 when they joined 30,000 other couples across America who chose 8/18/18 for their special day. Danielle, who manages our sales and information office, kept her cool throughout the summer despite planning and putting together all that goes into the perfect wedding. And that was without taking hardly any time off work! One of the best moments of the wedding was seeing Danielle's 92-year-old grandmother, Ruth, as the flower girl dropping petals down the pathway towards the one-of-a-kind elkhorn archway created by Jonathon. Then, of course there was the dog, Wrangler, who carried the rings, and the ceremonial etching of Danielle & Jonathon's names and the words "J♥D" in a Moose Paddle. It was one of the most beautiful outdoor weddings we've ever attended and we wish Danielle and Jonathon a life filled with the same sense of joy and wonder we saw throughout their wedding. The first of September found Mark and I back in Ohio where Mark grew up. There we hosted a party in celebration of his birthday among family, friends and past employees who turned out to help him through the trauma of turning 70. We enjoyed the company of about 150 people over the course of the 8-hour event that included entertainment by Mark's cousin, Tommy Lee, who was the White House pianist from Johnson through Bush 1. Guests played six rounds of live trivia with questions based on Mark's life and businesses: perhaps the favorite question, "At the age of three, what infamous act did Mark and his 5-year old brother, Bruce commit? (They burned down the barn). Running a business is hard but the rewards of meeting and working with the people who help make it a success are immeasurable. And nothing is better than celebrating life's special moments surrounded by people who care.
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Grandma Ruth, Flower Girl
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Danielle & Jonathon Exchange Vows
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Celebrating Mark's Birthday
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Shopping for a new home during our Open House Event
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