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Start were you are, use what you have, do what you can.
Arthur Ashe
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Dear friends, family, and cherished clients,
As we step into June, the Flathead Valley comes alive with the hum of summer. We’ve made it through the long stretch of winter and spring’s muddy boots and now we get to fully embrace this golden season. There’s sunshine on the lake, music in the air, and something truly special around every corner.
One of those moments is nearly here - after months of anticipation, the Bigfork Bridge is officially reopening! Join us on Tuesday, June 25th at 10:45 AM for the ribbon cutting and community celebration. This long-awaited reconnection will do more than just ease traffic, it reconnects our town, supports our local businesses, and reminds us of the power of progress when we all show up with patience and heart. I’ll be there cheering with the rest of you!
This month also brings Father’s Day and the summer solstice - two moments that invite us to pause in appreciation. To the dads, grandfathers, mentors, and all the quiet heroes showing up every day: thank you. Your steadiness, humor, and love deserve more than a tie. And as the longest day of the year draws us outside, may you find joy in late sunsets, barefoot evenings, and your favorite summer rituals.
In the spirit of celebration, I have some personal news to share: I’ve been named one of Montana’s Top 150 Residential Real Estate Agents for 2025 by RealTrends! This recognition is deeply meaningful - not because of the number, but because of what it reflects. Your trust in me, your referrals, your loyalty, and the relationships we’ve built together have made this possible. I couldn’t do any of this without you, and I am so incredibly grateful. Truly.
As for the market? Yes, it’s been a unique spring, we are right on track with new inventory continuing to come in, and just as importantly, homes are still closing - a reassuring sign that, even in a more tempered market, there’s meaningful movement. It’s a reminder that the right preparation, pricing, and strategy still deliver results. If you’re planning to list or begin your search this summer, let’s talk soon - the window is wide open, and I’d love to help you make the most of it.
There’s also a big shift in the Montana tax landscape this year. We touch on the details below, but know this: I'm here to help you understand what it means for your property plans and how to best navigate any new changes.
As always, I’m with you every step of the way. I love making new friends and helping old ones find just the right next chapter. Whether you’re selling a longtime home, dreaming of a summer escape, or simply exploring the market - let’s connect. I bring expertise, perspective, and a sense of calm to every transaction, and I’m always honored to be part of your journey.
Wishing you a sun-drenched, memory-filled June. Hope to see you on the bridge (or the beach) soon!
Warmly,
Denise
*my beautiful garden baskets are credit to Tiffany @ Wild Geese Gardens 🌺😍
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From April to May, the local real estate market saw a noticeable boost!
Residential sales jumped by approximately 24% across the four counties, while new listings rose 18%, giving buyers more options. Plus the median sales price inched up 1%, showing steady growth and strong demand.
It's a great time to be in the market - whether you're buying or selling!
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RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY TAX INCREASE NOTICE:
Property tax bills for 2024 and prior years may not reflect the future tax burdens on non-owner-occupied residential properties such as second homes, vacation homes, and short-term rentals. Recent legislation passed by the Montana Legislature (House Bill 231 and Senate Bill 542) raised the tax burdens on such properties and will take full effect in tax year 2026 and reflected in tax bills sent out in the fall of 2026. Further, the Montana Department of Revenue’s statewide property appraisal for the 2025-2026 biennium is anticipated to raise the value of all residential properties beginning in tax year 2025. Buyers are encouraged to consult with a tax advisor or real estate attorney for further information concerning the impact these changes may have on the tax bills for any Montana residential property they are considering. This notice is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or tax advice.
Here is an accurate and worthwhile summary of the new law:
https://parsonsbehle.com/insights/new-montana-state-income-and-property-taxes-for-2025-and-2026
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The Bigfork Bridge Is Almost Back!
Our beautiful Bigfork bridge is finally about to reopen! I'm excited to share that on
June 25th at 11:45 am
we’ll celebrate with a ribbon cutting, officially reconnecting both sides of town just in time for 4th of July and the heart of summer.
This project has been a long time coming, and the finished result brings smoother traffic, strengthens our community, supports our local businesses, and restores the everyday flow that makes Bigfork such a special place to live, work, and explore.
THANK YOU to everyone who made this possible!
See you on the bridge.
MDT’s construction webcam.
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63 US National Parks Ranked
(Spoiler Alert - Glacier Park is #2)
Glacier National Park encompasses 1 million acres of Montana wilderness, two rugged mountain ranges, more than 130 lakes and 700 miles of trail. You can kick off your adventure on foot by hiking famous Glacier footpaths like Grinnell Glacier or the Highline Trail, or kick back and relax on the Flathead River.
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Outlaw Inn Under New Ownership
The beginning of the future for the former Outlaw Inn is now in sight. We’re told that Columbia Falls developer, Mick Ruis, has bought the papers on the property and, as of May 2nd, he owns it.
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Montanans Beware:
These 7 Spots Are Full of Bears
These 7 places are places that you need to be BEAR AWARE, meaning you should bring with you bear spray, make as much noise as you can, and lock up all food and trash.
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Californians Who Bought Up Montana Property Will Soon Feel a Major Tax Burden on Their Second Homes
Residential property tax revenue is now at the heart of one of the most sweeping property tax reforms in Montana history. A new law aims to ease the burden on full-time residents by shifting more of the tax load onto second-home owners—especially those with high-value properties.
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Bigfork Fire Department Asking For Up To
$15 Million For New Station & Upgrades
Bigfork Fire Department is putting a 20-year bond for up to $15 million before voters this fall for a new fire station and upgrades to its current facilities, according to the department’s Public Information Officer Al Benitez.
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Mondays are for Monday Market!
5:00-8:00PM
Memorial Day - Labor Day
This is our 8th year of making Mondays in Bigfork just a little more fun. The BMM is a weekly summer market that includes: Fresh Goods, Bakers, Artists, Food Trucks, Cocktails, Live Music and a chance to dance with your neighbors & friends—GOOD TIMES for all! We are a family-friendly event and assure you that there is something at our market for all ages.
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Exciting news to share!
I’ve been named one of the Top 150 residential real estate agents in Montana by RealTrends for 2025.
It’s an honor to be recognized by one of the most respected voices in our industry - but more than that, it’s a reflection of the incredible clients who continue to place their trust in me. Your referrals, your confidence, and your partnership mean everything.
I truly couldn’t do this without you.
I'm grateful every day to do what I love, for people I genuinely value. Thank you for letting me be part of your journey.
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More Listings, Fewer Closings:
Is a Market Shift Underway?
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Test Your Home Improvement IQ
With This Quiz
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Watch Out for the Double Meanings
of These Emojis
| | | 50 Ways to Say Something is "Good" | | | |
Scientists Now Report These Colors
Attract Mosquitos in Montana
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7 Major Historical Events That
Happened in June
| | | 10 Affordable Upgrades Realtors Say Increase the Value of Your Home | | | Home Sellers Are Pricing Too High and Not 'Listening to the Market,' Experts Warn | | | |
Six Investor Tips As
Rural Migration Accelerates
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6 Features Sellers Miss
But Buyers Notice
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15 Plants That Are Easy
to Grow From Cuttings
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19 Popular Dog Breeds
That Can Be A Handful
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7 Very Good Questions
About Dogs Answered
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Dogs + Home Design:
50 Adorable Photos
| | | 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 | | |
Year in Review:
It's the Glacier Sotheby's 2024 Annual Market Report.
This is a great place to see how far the reach is and what I can do for you through the Sotheby's platform!
| | The 2025 Sotheby's Luxury Outlook is out as well - here is a link to preview the newest issue | | |
TESTIMONIAL
I highly recommend Denise Lang for any of your real estate needs. I thoroughly enjoyed working with Denise and I felt that she was open, honest and motivated to get a good result for me, have a successful sale and positive experience for all involved. Denise was always available for questions and information as well as recommendations. Enjoyed the experience.
- Jan M.
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JUST LISTED
443 Osborn Ave #206, Bigfork
MLS #30050740 $898,760
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JUST LISTED
12284 Cygnet Way, Bigfork
MLS #30049763 $2,200,00
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PRICE IMPROVED
88/94 Parkway Avenue, Unit #B
& Boat Slip #6, Bigfork
MLS #30046246 $1,195,000
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PRICE IMPROVED
417 8th Ave W, Kalispell
MLS #30043792 $559,775
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PRICE IMPROVED
NHN Hilltop Terrace, Bigfork
MLS #30044262 $209,500
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ON MARKET
1204 Marion Hubbart Spur, Marion
MLS #30039569 $2,350,000
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ON MARKET
1215/1225 Sunnyside Drive, Kalispell
MLS #30043446 $850,000
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ON MARKET
5095 Highway 2 W, Columbia Falls
MLS #30031985 $650,000
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ON MARKET - COMMERCIAL
5095 Highway 2 W, Columbia Falls
MLS #30031804 $650,000
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ON MARKET
285/280 Shady Lane, Bigfork
MLS #30046169 $5,498,750
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UNDER CONTRACT
25 Whalebone Court, Kalispell
MLS #30039058 $875,000
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CLOSED
Orvis Evans Drive Unit #3. Bigfork
MLS #30030379
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CLOSED
-Represented Buyer
151 Timberjack Trail, Bigfork
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CLOSED
712 11th Street W, Columbia Falls
MLS #30046053
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COMING SOON
New Listings!!
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CERI'S CORNER:
-Small Body, Big Attitude (You’re Welcome)
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Confessions of a Corgi:
Oh hey there, hooman. You’ve probably heard by now - Corgis like me....We’re a bit of a handful. If you read that cheeky article above about high-maintenance dog breeds, you already know the truth: we might be small, but we don’t come with a small personality. Not even close.
Let me break it down for you, straight from the stubby-legged source.
We Corgis were originally bred to herd cattle. That’s right - cattle. Big, stompy, mooing creatures. So don’t be surprised when I try to herd your kids, your cat, your guests, or even your vacuum cleaner. It’s literally in my DNA. I see movement, I respond. I lead. I supervise. I give very loud, bossy feedback. You’re welcome.
We’re smart - like, scary smart. That means we learn fast. Sit? Got it. Stay? Sure. Play dead? Only if the treat’s good enough. But our intelligence comes with a side of “I’ll do it if I feel like it.” Try making me take a bath when I’m not in the mood. It’s a battle of wills, and spoiler: I usually win.
Yes, we bark. Sometimes at a leaf. Sometimes at nothing. We’re vocal. We’re opinionated. We’re always trying to let you know what’s what. It’s not “excessive,” it’s communication. Again, you’re welcome.
Now, don’t get me wrong - I’m loyal to the bone. I’ll follow you from room to room, curl up at your feet, and give you those adorable side-eyes that melt hearts. But if you’re not keeping me busy? Oh, I’ll find my own entertainment. A little mischief here, a dash of chaos there... what can I say? Boredom and Corgis don’t mix.
We’re not for the faint of heart. We require consistency, patience, and a good sense of humor. But if you can handle our sass, you’re in for a lifetime of love, laughs, and a lot of “Did your dog just DO that?” moments.
So to all the hoomans brave enough to share your life (and furniture) with one of us? Buckle up. We’re stubborn. We’re loud. We’re always in charge.
And we wouldn’t have it any other way.
Love,
Your favorite sassy sidekick
Ceri
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DENISE'S COOKING CORNER
- Moist, Delicious Crab Cakes
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DENISE'S READING CORNER
-The Tattooist of Auschwitz
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The Tattooist of Auschwitz is a profoundly moving piece, penned by Heather Morris in 2018.
Lale Sokolov is well-dressed, a charmer, a ladies’ man. He is also a Jew. On the first transport from Slovakia to Auschwitz in 1942, Lale immediately stands out to his fellow prisoners. In the camp, he is looked up to, looked out for, and put to work in the privileged position of Tätowierer– the tattooist – to mark his fellow prisoners, forever. One of them is a young woman, Gita, who steals his heart at first glance.
His life is given new purpose and Lale does his best through the struggle and suffering to use his position for good.
The incredible real-life experiences of the Auschwitz-Birkenau tattooist and the woman he loved. This story which is full or beauty and hope, is deeply emotional, illuminating and sure to leave a lasting impression. It is based on years of interviews author Heather Morris conducted with real-life Holocaust survivor and Auschwitz-Birkenau tattooist, Ludwig (Lale) Sokolov.
**The book is part of a series, succeeded by Cilka's Journey and Three Sisters, which delve into the theme of love and survival during the Holocaust..
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