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During the economic downturn condo building all but came to a halt. Those that could snapped up distressed properties while Baby Boomers nestled in place in their existing homes waiting out the market to see what would happen next. The economy turned the corner around 2012 and through 2016 made a healthy rebound. Home values steadily improved, and as the stock market climbed, Baby Boomers once again started thinking about selling their homes and downsizing. At the same time young adults looking to make the move from renting to home ownership began to seize the opportunity to invest in their first home while mortgage interest rates continued to hold steady. For both the young buyers and the Baby Boomers, condos re-emerged as a desirable alternative to a single-family home. Baby Boomers can now sell their homes at a good price and move into a comfortable condo free of exterior maintenance providing an opportunity to travel while still maintaining a home base that requires less care. And the condo lifestyle appeals equally to young adults busy building their careers. A condo provides a sense of accomplishment building equity while freeing up valuable time to get out on the weekends and enjoy all that Montana has to offer without worrying whether the grass needs mowed. The condo comeback proved especially evident during last week's special Open House Event at Mountain View Meadows featuring three homes ready or nearly ready for move-in and three well-under construction. Although realtor David Torgerson said he quit counting after 60 people had toured the single-family home he hosted during the event, the majority of buyers who stopped by the Mountain View Meadows Information & Sales office asked about the new Sierra Custom Homes tri-plex condo building and the brand new single-story duplex condo building plans recently unveiled. Would-be buyers requested to be notified as soon as they could get in to see a condo and some offered to put money down to reserve one of the new single-story units. With 1219 S.F. up to 1660 S.F. single-story plans and an 1812 S.F. 2-story plan, the new condo buildings just underway or about to start provide a variety of choices for Baby Boomers and young adults looking to make that all important next move that better fits their changing lifestyles.
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Building a Better Community:
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Recent fires hit close to home this month when Holmes Gulch and Martinez Gulch residents faced mandatory evacuation August 24th due to a lightning-sparked fire in the South Hills. The fire raced up the hill headed over Mt. Ascension towards Helena then quickly reversed direction when winds pushed it back towards Jackson Creek. A few days ago, the inciweb.nwcg.gov reported the Holmes Gulch Fire 100% contained thanks to the brave work of firefighters and emergency personnel dedicated to protecting lives and homes in the Helena area and beyond. The resources that responded included Wildland Firefighters, four air tankers, four DNRC helicopters and one from the National Guard. The 171-foot-long DC-10 firefighting supertanker jet stationed in Helena, one of only three of its kind in the U.S., also responded. Thirteen fire engines along with seven pieces of heavy equipment worked the scene from the ground. About 130 personnel in all put their lives on the line to put out the fire. Key players who responded to the threat included Montana City Chief Rick Abraham and Chief Assistant Lyn Stimpson, DNRC Incident Commander Dave Hamilton along with DNRC's Butch Kroll, Jefferson County Sheriff Craig Doolittle and Undersheriff Mike Johnson, Lewis & Clark County Sheriff Leo Dutton and Jay Nelson of the Montana Highway Patrol. Crews from local volunteer fire departments were joined by state and federal teams. Many thanks to all the firefighting personnel and also to the American Red Cross and the Helena Assembly of God Church for opening a shelter for evacuees and to Valley Veterinary Hospital which offered to shelter pets. With Labor Day this weekend, now is a great time to thank those who risk their lives by laboring without pause to protect our community. You can express your support by sending much-needed donations to the American Red Cross of Montana, 1300 28
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St. South, Great Falls, MT 59405. Include in the memo "Holmes Gulch Fire" to direct the funds locally. But with fires continuing to spread across many parts of the state, it takes all of us to build a better community no matter where your home fires burn.
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On Topic:
LOW MORTGAGE RATES = PAYMENT OPTIONS
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An article published by HBI, the Home Buying Institute, touted good news last week for homebuyers regarding mortgage rates. According to an article on homebuyinginstitute.com referencing a weekly survey conducted by Freddie Mac, the average rate for a 30-year fixed mortgage loan dropped by 11 basis points (0.11%) last week, landing at 3.97%. That marked its lowest point of 2017 and the lowest level since November of last year. That was the good news.
According to the article, the latest long-term forecast for mortgage rates suggests they could inch upward by the end of 2017. Last spring, the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) published its forecast extending through the end of 2017 and into 2018 estimating the average rate for a 30-year fixed mortgage will rise to 4.6% by the 4
th Quarter to above 5% around the middle of 2018. That's the bad news for homebuyers who delay their purchases.
However, the really great news is that mortgage interest rates really haven't changed all that much and remain at historically low levels. On August 23, Bankrate.com listed the 30-year fixed mortgage rate at 3.95%. Although the 30-year fixed mortgage remains the most favored mortgage among buyers and lenders, the popular online LendingTree listed a 30-year Fixed mortgage rate at 3.71% APR and a whopping low 3.04% APR on a 15-year fixed mortgage! Both LendingTree and Bankrate.com numbers show a decrease in mortgage interest rates since mid-July with only a slight increase over June.
Running a purchase price of $299,000 on a new single-family home at both the 30-year fixed rate and the 15-year fixed rate, the monthly payments at today's rates would be $1364 and $2065 respectively -- that's assuming a qualified buyer with a 740+ credit score and 0 points providing a 10% down payment.
Although home purchasing prices have returned to normal after nearly a decade of depressed prices, home values increased dramatically in the past two years. At $1364/month for a $299,000 home, typical buyers in today's market will pay less than renting while building equity in their own home. The $2065/month sounds steep for most buyers, but those who can manage end up with a totally paid for home in 15 short years. Considering the way time flies, that is quite the bargain!
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Benefits and Updates:
MOUNTAIN VIEW MEADOWS
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1
. RUBBERIFIC TREE RINGS:
Heat and dry weather stressed out younger boulevard trees this summer. Even so, do not assume your trees are dead! According to the Helena Arborist, if there is green below the bark, the tree is still alive. To improve the chances of survival, consider cutting out an appropriately-sized circle in the sod around the base of your boulevard trees and replacing it with brown "Rubberific Tree Rings" available at Lowes. They will help direct water to your trees and keep the soil moist around the roots.
2.
AEREATOR SHOES: Craftsman Village resident Kathy Barton came up with a unique way of aerating her lawn this summer: Aerator Shoes. New to us, these long-spiked soles attach to your regular shoes and allow you to poke holes in your lawn as you walk around your yard. But be careful. Barton says it's a little tricky to keep your balance and recommends using ski poles for safety. Barton found her Aerator Shoes at Rock Hand Hardware but it also shows online that they can be purchased from Home Depot and, of course, Amazon.
3.
COMMON HACKBERRY TREES: After completing boulevard landscaping this summer along Stacia and Twilight in the Craftsman Village neighborhood, we ended up with two more trees than we needed. (Mountain View Meadows actually provides your first boulevard trees for free.) Anyone in Craftsman Village who would like to purchase at cost one of the two remaining trees to replace any Common Hackberry Tree that may have died from the hot, smoky summer, please contact Rebecca at 431-7680. Rebecca has been nursing the trees for two months and they are green and healthy, but just like Glacier Nursery where they were purchased, MVM cannot guarantee the trees.
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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. 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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The Uplands at Mountain View Meadows
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311 Elouise Cobell: The Logan. 3BD/2BA, 1769 S.F. Granite, tile, soft-close cabinets and an oversized garage are just a few of the upgrades in this brand new floorplan designed and built by prestigious Sierra Custom Homes. You'll enjoy a spacious master ensuite with a walk-in closet, tiled shower, double vanity and water closet. Separate owner's entrance off the garage to tuck away your shoes and hang your coats. $289,900. For additional information, contact Dawn Purvis at Century 21.
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Aspen Park at Mountain View Meadows
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2938 Big Timber Loop: GORGEOUS SINGLE-STORY with all the style and quality you've come to expect from a Sierra Custom Home. Just shy of 2000 S.F., this brand new 3BD/2.5BA beauty includes a luxurious master suite, an office/flex room, walk-in pantry, fireplace, Hardieplank siding, concrete tile roof, stone and timber exterior accents, a 3-bay tandem garage and a covered outdoor living space for family fun and entertaining. Stop by the office for a tour or contact Dawn Purvis, Century 21 at 406.439.6380. MLS#298866. $379,900.
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2930 Big Timber Loop: NEW UPSCALE HOME PLAN underway with 2460 S.F. of single-story living and an additional 280 S.F. finished bonus space above the garage. Vaulted living room, corner fireplace, breakfast bar, a huge pantry, den/office, wood doors and trim, wood floors, granite and tile throughout, 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 3BD/2.5BA home priced at $419,000.
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Antelope Trace at Mountain View Meadows
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2789 Favor Loop:
The Wise. Talk about a "wise" choice! With 2123 totally finished S.F. this upscale home will provide you with all the space you need for single-level living on the main floor plus 2 bedrooms and a bath upstairs for family or guests. The master ensuite features dual walk-in closets, a separate tub and shower and a double vanity. You'll have plenty of time to relax on the front porch and entertain on the rear when you add low-maintenance landscaping. Be sure to check in early on this brand new floor plan just getting underway. Priced in the mid-300K's.
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2785 Favor Loop: The Sun.
Upscale 1872 S.F. single-level Weatherall-built home featuring an open floor plan sure to wow you with space and livability. The Sun features a fireplace, gas stove, pantry, 8-lite panel double doors leading into the flex room off the great room, a master suite with separate tub and shower, granite and tile throughout, soft-close cabinets, a concrete front porch with craftsman design elements, and a covered concrete patio in back. Call 406.449-0800 to lay your claim to this new home priced at only $299,900.
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2781 Favor Loop: The Big Sandy. Single-story with a whopping 1903 S.F. makes this contemporary designed open floor plan exceptionally desirable at $299,900. Home features a huge great room with fireplace and vaulted ceiling, a light and beautiful master suite with double vanity and large walk-in closet, granite countertops, soft-close doors, and concrete porches front
and
back! Stop by the MVM office at 431 S. Alice Street for a personal walk-through or contact David Torgerson, Versant Real Estate Group, at 406-459-8565. And right now you can take advantage of Mark's Birthday Special by saving $10,000 on this exceptional Weather-built home if you sign a contract by Sept. 5. MLS#297073.
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491 Twilight: Over 3,000 S.F. to wrap your family in style and comfort! Built by family owned and operated Grewett Construction, you'll love the beautiful wood finishes, natural light, and upper rear deck that makes this home a real standout. With main floor living and an additional 1548 S.F. walk-out basement, you'll have all the room you need now with plenty more to design to fit your current and future needs. MLS#298491. $310,000.
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Craftsman Village at Mountain View Meadows
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531, 533 & 535 S. Alice Street: Three new condo units just finished; two 1213 S.F. single-story plans with a 200 S.F. covered outdoor living space and a 1521 S.F. two-story each priced at $219,900. All three condos feature soft close cabinets, laminate flooring, stainless appliances, granite countertops and tiled master baths plus attached 2-car garages. NOTE: All three condos are sold! Construction on our next condo building started in August. Stop by the office while there is still time to get ahead of the game by reserving your new home now!
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561, 563 & 565 S. Alice Street:
Foundation in on Sierra Custom Homes' Tri-plex condo building...and one of the three units is already sold! Now is the time to stake your claim on one of the two remaining condos. The first is a 1213 S.F. 2BD/2BA single-story with a covered outdoor living space. The second is an 1812 S.F. 3BD/2.5BA 2-story with an additional upstairs loft to tuck away the TV so you can enjoy the open downstairs floorplan. Both units are priced at $224,900. For additional information call Dawn Purvis at Century 21.
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| The Town Hall Main Floor |
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| The Town Hall Upper Floor |
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2793 Alexis Avenue: The Town Hall. Location, location, location--directly across from Mountain View Park with unobstructed mountain views! Framed and ready for siding, this beautiful 3BD/2.5BA classic craftsman 4-square features a full front porch, great room with fireplace, separate dining area, office nook, an upstairs loft (could be a 4
th
bedroom), air conditioning and a large 2-bay attached garage. Call 406.449-0800 while there's still time to choose colors. $289,900.
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Neighborhood:
THANKS FOR BEING THE BEST NEIGHBORS!
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Good neighbors are the best. And Mountain View Meadows definitely has more than its fair share. Neighbors who pick up their neighbor's trash when it blows over in the wind on garbage day... Neighbors that take in pets that have slipped their collars and take the time to track down their frantic owners. Then there are those who take the time to check on older neighbors they haven't seen for several days or are keeping an eye on a neighbor's house while she spends a few days away. Before complaining too much about the weeds in the boulevard in front of your neighbor's yard, check first if your neighbor is healthy and well. Maybe your neighbor just needs your helping hand. When all is said and done, your neighborhood is the best when you're a good neighbor. And from where we stand, we have some of the very best in the whole entire community!
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Barbara Stem
Has moved into her custom dream home built by Casteel Construction across from Mountain View park!
Cara Gurule, Cari Divine & Kayla Ryan
Have all moved into their lovely condos built by Weatherall Builders!
Mike & Nancy McGrorty
Have moved into their beautiful custom Craftsman Style Home built by Sierra Custom Homes!
Congrat
ulations!
And Welcome to the Neighborhood!
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Fun & Fitness:
ANIMAL POSES IN THE PARK
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"Getting kids off the couch and into animal poses is a fun way to keep them active", said Lori Corbin of KABC television during an interview recently with Lana Titus. Titus is quite familiar with Mountain View Park where her kids have played many a day. This isn't a typical scenario at most parks, but Titus, a professional fitness trainer wishes it was. "As a mom and someone in fitness, I really want to spread that message of staying active and healthy in a fun way for both parents and children." Heading to the park and playing fun exercise games with your kids is a great alternative to watching them sit on the couch playing video games. "I love doing animal yoga poses with my kids. Most of the things we do with the animal poses are 100 percent created by them. Moving, having fun, making noises, I'm getting a stretch, I'm usually sweaty and I've laughed a lot," said Titus. Fun is
the most important component to this workout to keep kids moving. Recent studies in the American College of Sports Medicine said asking kids to play in animal form is one of the smartest things we can do. If you make it seem like something they
have
to do, they're less likely to be interested. "Monkey, crab, giraffe - go wild with imagination," said Titus. "Plus, this works for all fitness levels. It's a great morning wake-up call or a good way to get blood moving in the lull of a lazy afternoon." Studies show that Yoga breathing also teaches kids to calm themselves in stressful situations. So next time you're trailing along with your kids to enjoy an afterschool trek to the park, include some fun creating yoga animal poses on the open lawn space. It will make you laugh -- and everyone who sees you will smile right along with you.
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Labor Day for most of us marks the end of the summer. But how I wish it didn't! Mark and I can see how much the smoke-filled skies around us dampened summer plans for lots of people in the area. I'd love to turn back the clock two months to the clear blue skies in June when grass was bright green and flowers in full bloom. Back when the Sleeping Giant could be seen from tens of miles away and everything looked so bright and fresh. But, trust me, we know that a little inconvenience is nothing compared to the hundreds, if not thousands of residents across Montana whose very lives are threatened daily by this year's exceptionally active fire season. Along with the fires in the west and the recent catastrophe in Houston, which spread across Texas and into Louisiana, we are reminded how quickly nature can wreak havoc on our lives. We offer our sincere condolences to those who have suffered and continue to suffer from the fires and from Hurricane Harvey. We've been lucky here in Helena to see much more smoke than fire. The skies will begin clearing as fall draws nearer and life will get back to normal. For those who are heading to cleaner air this holiday weekend, enjoy the break from your labors! And thank you once again to all the Firefighters and Responders across the whole U.S. for working hard throughout the weekend to protect our homes and lands and for keeping us safe.
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A constant rotation of 4 Helicopters fighting the Holmes Gulch Fire filled their buckets from a pond on Jackson Creek Road not far from our house. It was quite a sight!
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