We must adjust to changing times and still hold to unchanging principals.



Jimmy Carter

39th President of the United States

Dear Friends,


As we settle into the crisp winter season, it's easy to embrace the playful magic of snowflakes falling softly, transforming the world into a winter wonderland. Whether you're building a snowman or enjoying a cozy fire from indoors, there’s something special about the calm and serenity that winter brings. It’s a time of hibernation, a perfect excuse to take things slow and recharge for the busy months ahead.


However, as we enjoy the rest of this season, our hearts go out to those suffering from the devastation caused by the fires in the Palisades and the greater Los Angeles area. Our thoughts are with the families, first responders, and all of our clients and friends that have been impacted. The destruction has been overwhelming, and we send our sympathies and prayers to those who have lost homes, businesses or the lives of their loved ones. 💔 If you are able to offer help—whether through donations or simply extending a kind word to those affected—please do so. The strength of our community shines brightest in times like these.


For me, winter is the season of rest and rejuvenation, and, like many of you, I’m taking the opportunity to snuggle up with a good book and binge a show (currently, Ceri is glued to the latest drama—what about you?). But just because the selling season is a bit slower doesn’t mean we should stop moving forward with your real estate goals!


In fact, winter is the perfect time to get your home prepped for a successful sale. The hustle and bustle of spring can feel overwhelming, but right now, we have a golden opportunity to plan ahead, tackle those home improvements, and get your Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) completed. By starting now, we’ll have everything in place to hit the ground running when the market picks up!


Speaking of winter coziness, I’ve attached a few photos of Ceri and Odin by the Christmas tree, they soaked up the festive atmosphere this Christmas. They’re certainly making the most of this "hibernate and rest" season too! 😄


And speaking of the season’s beauty, I’ve included a couple of stunning photos generously shared by a friend, of the snow finally making an appearance in our area. There’s something so magical about the way it blankets everything in peaceful stillness, don’t you think?


Ready to get your property market-ready?

Give me a call today, and we’ll schedule your complimentary CMA. We’ll work together to ensure your home is in top shape and positioned perfectly when the season shifts.


I’m here to support you every step of the way in your real estate journey, whether you're looking to buy your dream home or sell your current property. My extensive understanding of the local market, paired with my commitment to working closely with buyers' agents under the new NAR guidelines, guarantees a smooth and transparent process. With a track record of successfully selling over 85% of my listings each year, partnering with me greatly increases your chances of a successful sale. My primary focus is to ensure you navigate this experience with confidence, professionalism, and a friendly touch.


Stay warm, stay cozy, and let's make this year your best real estate year yet!



Warmly,

Denise



Activities Around the  Flathead
What's Happening in Bigfork

Here's a Month to Month View of Home Sales by Town for 2024:



If you're interested in a complimentary CMA for your property,

give me a call today and let's see how your home's value compares to these recent sales!

LOCAL READS

Bigfork's Bridge Street Bridge removed

- Bridge Street Bridge Update:

 

Crews have removed the closed Bridge Street Bridge as preparations continue to build a new bridge.


Work began around 9 am on Jan. 2 with project managers reporting the work went quickly.

Big Sky Public Relations Project & Marketing Manager Sloane Stinson tells MTN there were "no impacts from the removal of the truss."


The Montana Department of Transportation is hoping to have the new span in place prior to July 4th.

Stinson says crews removed the bridge deck and then used a large crane to remove the truss.

The truss is now on Bridge Street beside Sliter's Park — which is closed throughout construction — and will be taken apart in the coming weeks.


Stay tuned for further updates as the project progresses!


The Good Stuff Botanicals Skin Care company focuses on natural ingredients


Michael and Maranda Johnson opened the Good Stuff Botanicals in Bigfork to create natural, organic skin care products.


The Good Stuff Botanicals is located at 801 Grand Drive in Bigfork and is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Products are for sale online — as well as skin care routine suggestions and blog posts — at thegoodstuffbotanicals.com.


The products are also on the shelves of Sage and Cedar in Kalispell, Sykes Market, Withey’s Health Foods and more.

25 Stunning Photos of U.S. National Parks


These stunning national park photos are proof that the United States is one of the most beautiful countries on the planet.

And Glacier National Park is on the list!!

Discover the planet’s last few ‘naturally quiet’ places


Glacier National Park could be one of the few remaining peaceful places (free of noise pollution) in the world. Gordon Hempton, co-founder of Quiet Parks International, explains the criteria for certifying a place as

‘naturally quiet.’

The important (and scientific) correlation between your inner child and living in Montana


“We don’t stop playing because we grow old, we grow old because we stop playing~” Bernard Shaw.  

-Undecorate Day-


What goes up must come down! Join the Bigfork Elves for Undecorating Day in Bigfork! Meet at the Bigfork Inn at 8 am on January 25th for coffee, hot chocolate and muffins before taking down the garland and lights that have adorned our village.

Bring your gloves, wire cutters and perhaps a truck and trailer; along with friends and family…..many hands make for quick work!


No sign up needed, just show up downtown. We sure hope to see you back Elves!


NEWSY READS

California wildfires live updates: Death toll climbs to 24 with strong winds to continue

Jimmy Carter remembered by colleagues, family and friends as a devoted public servant


Name of baby pygmy hippo born at Virginia zoo has been revealed:

Realtor.com 2025 Housing Forecast

Fed Cuts Interest Rate by a Quarter Point, but Don’t Expect Big Declines for Mortgages Yet

Discover The Most Viral Headlines of 2024 that Captured and Defined the Luxury Real Estate Landscape

Consumer Guide: Homeowners Insurance


How to Provide Relief for Those Affected by the Southern California Wildfires


Our hearts go out to all those affected by this crisis, particularly those who have lost or experienced damage to their homes and communities.

 

Bringing it home: If you wish to help, please consider donating to the Anywhere Disaster Relief Fund. If you have been impacted by the wildfires, grant assistance applications are available.

Donate Here
Apply for Assistance Here

DIGITAL RESOURCES

2024 LIVE Montana is now on the stands! The link to the digital version is included below and you can pick up a physical copy at your office.

Our Digital Listing Catalogue is also a great option. Bookmark the link above so you can keep on eye on what's been recently listed and sold

ACTIVE LISTINGS

TESTIMONIAL


Denise, we want to reach out with a strong "Thank You" for the job you did for us, both in 2023 and 2024. We went to you immediately when we found a building site in Bigfork last year, to make the offer for us and carry the transaction through. We built our new dream home and then returned to you to sell our former Bigfork home this summer. That transaction was a little more challenging but we knew and trusted that you would bring us all the way to the finish line. If anyone asks, send them to me and I will tell them that you are the most knowledgeable and professional real estate agent in the valley. You flat-out get the job done for your clients. Thanks again.


-Charlie and Susan 

CLOSED

1204 Lake Pointe Drive, Bigfork

MLS #30019698

IS IT ME YOU'RE LOOKING FOR?

443 Osborn Avenue Unit #106,

MLS #30032615 / 30033555

$195,750 (Bigfork)

IS IT ME YOU'RE LOOKING FOR?

Orvis Evans Drive Unit #3. Bigfork

MLS #30030379 $549,000


CERI'S CORNER: DOGS AND TELEVISION

-What do dogs see when they watch TV?

As the cold winter months settle in, the world outside grows dark and chilly. It’s the perfect time for a little indoor relaxation. The air may be crisp, but inside, everything feels warm and comforting. The blanket is soft, the couch is cozy, and there’s that gentle flicker from the TV. Winter days are shorter, and the nights are long, so it’s only natural that we dogs snuggle up and spend some time with you and your favorite shows - relaxing together.


I’ll admit it: I do enjoy a little bit of TV. It’s not that I need to be glued to the screen (though I can definitely keep my eyes on it when something exciting happens). My vision may not be as sharp as yours, but the movement is fascinating. According to an article I read on PetMD (What Do Dogs See When They Watch TV?), dogs like me see a lot less detail than you do, but we sure can pick up on motion. So when a squirrel dashes across the screen or a dog runs by, I can't help but focus for a moment. Those quick flashes of action grab my attention, even if I don’t understand the storyline.


Now, you know those long winter nights when you start scrolling for the next series to binge? Well, I’m ready for it. I’ll snuggle in, tail tucked under, and settle in for the long haul. I bet your furry friend is too. We might not always follow every plot twist, but we're here for the cozy experience—just as long as there’s plenty of room for us on the couch and we get to enjoy the warmth of the blanket with you.


I’m all for binge-watching. We may not sit through hours of TV without a few breaks for snacks or a quick nap, but generally, we'll happily join you for a marathon. If something exciting happens on screen, we might bark or perk up (I can't resist when there’s a burst of movement!). But mostly, we're just here to relax, enjoy the warmth, and spend time with you. Those long, cold winter nights are perfect for winding down together, whether we’re deep into a TV series or just enjoying the quiet. With the TV humming in the background and a soft blanket to snuggle into, it’s the best way to pass the time.


Winter is made for these peaceful moments, so let's settle in, snuggle up and enjoy a cozy show tonight.


Warm and cozy wishes, Ceri

DENISE'S COOKING CORNER

- Yummy Winter Appetizer

DENISE'S READING CORNER

-The Personal Librarian


The Instant New York Times Bestseller! A Good Morning America* Book Club Pick!


Named a Best Book of the Year by NPR! Named a Notable Book of the Year by the Washington Post!


A remarkable novel about J. P. Morgan’s personal librarian, Belle da Costa Greene, the Black American woman who was forced to hide her true identity and pass as white in order to leave a lasting legacy that enriched our nation, from New York Times bestselling authors Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray.


In her twenties, Belle da Costa Greene is hired by J. P. Morgan to curate a collection of rare manuscripts, books, and artwork for his newly built Pierpont Morgan Library. Belle becomes a fixture in New York City society and one of the most powerful people in the art and book world, known for her impeccable taste and shrewd negotiating for critical works as she helps create a world-class collection.


But Belle has a secret, one she must protect at all costs. She was born not Belle da Costa Greene but Belle Marion Greener. She is the daughter of Richard Greener, the first Black graduate of Harvard and a well-known advocate for equality. Belle’s complexion isn’t dark because of her alleged Portuguese heritage that lets her pass as white—her complexion is dark because she is African American.


The Personal Librarian tells the story of an extraordinary woman, famous for her intellect, style, and wit, and shares the lengths she must go to—for the protection of her family and her legacy—to preserve her carefully crafted white identity in the racist world in which she lives.




406.249.1758

deniselang1758@gmail.com 

DeniseLangRealEstate.com

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