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It's the perfect year for fall projects. Unlike 2017 in which brutal cold descended on Helena the day after Halloween, 2018 has seen a generally calmer autumn season. With the milder weather, homeowners and work crews have gained valuable time for finishing left-over summer chores, completing pre-winter prep and for tackling big jobs -- like site development and landscape projects postponed by spring showers that ran well into the first week of July. It wasn't always short-sleeve weather, but even with a little snow now and then, the Mountain View Meadows construction crew has remained busy digging foundations for new single-family homes and condos and excavating a new open green space area to be landscaped next spring. But they aren't the only crews hard at work. LandEscapes has been out building a new natural rock retaining wall along Runkle Parkway. Meantime Montana City Landscaping and Irrigation completed installing concrete curbing and laying sod at a new home available for sale at the corner of Alice Street and Favor Loop. Of course, Sierra Custom Homes and WeatherAll Builders have taken full advantage of beautiful crisp days framing homes and raising roofs. "It's been one of the most productive Octobers and Novembers in recent times," says developer Mark Runkle. "We look forward to building throughout the winter -- the work this fall has put us in a much better position to keep things rolling and on schedule." And If you haven't been out lately to see all the progress, now is a great time to take advantage of this week's lovely late-autumn days to take a personal tour of the community and see for yourselves why life is better year-round at Mountain View Meadows.
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Building a Better Community:
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Cohesion Dance Project presents Helena's 6th annual Shira Greenberg's Nutcracker on the Rocks. Leading audiences on a thrilling journey through the decades, this unique performance showcases a dynamic fusion of dancers and dance styles; artistically blending beginners to professionals in creative partnerships and energetic collaborations while weaving people of all abilities, including those dancing from their wheelchairs, into the fabric of the choreography. This year, they have ten dancers in the cast who are dancing with at least one disability, whether physical, developmental, or emotional. "Exhilarated audiences have experienced heart-warming joy and tears of inspiration upon witnessing the diversity of the cast, the energy leaping out from the stage, and the visions of unlimited possibilities," says Tanya Call, Artistic Director. This community based, rock-n-roll rendition of the Nutcracker features the music of James Brown, Aretha Franklin, The Rolling Stones, Janis Joplin and more! Helena holds the prestigious honor of being the only location to feature this exciting production. The 2018 cast features over 80 dancers ages 7-77 from throughout the community along with visiting guest artists from across the country. Performances are Saturday, November 24th at 7:30 pm and Sunday, November 25th at 2:00 pm at the Helena Civic Center Auditorium. Tickets are available through the Helena Civic Center box office at 406-447-8481 or online at www.helenaciviccenter.com.
Cohesion Dance Project is a non-profit dance production company striving to enrich, inspire, and unite a better community through dance.
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On Topic:
REAL ESTATE NEUTRAL
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What does it mean to be "Real Estate Neutral?" According to the online website
Financial Samurai
, a forum that strives to slice through money's mysteries, "Real Estate Neutral" is a one property home owner. "When it comes to investing, everything is relative," says
Samurai
. "Given you have to live somewhere, if you live in your own home, you are neutral on real estate. If the market goes up, your house value goes up, but it doesn't matter [whether it goes up or down] because you aren't selling."
Financial Samurai
admits to advocating home ownership rather than renting. Samurai refers to renting in terms of "Real Estate Negative."
"There's nothing wrong with renting if you don't have the money," says the Financial Samurai, "or you don't know what to do with your life, have a lot of debt, or are not sure whether you want to live in one place for more than five years. The mobility of being a renter is wonderful, as is the lack of responsibility for property taxes and maintenance. Just know the return on rent is always negative 100% every month. At least with homeownership, you have a chance of making some money."
So why is Real Estate Neutral better? This is what the Financial Samurai has to say on the subject:
1) You have to live somewhere.
2) The homeownership stock is typically better quality than the rental stock to live.
3) Most people can't save for "poop" [sic], so paying down principle is better than "poop." [sic].
4) Tax shield on income, which is especially helpful for those in higher brackets.
5) The long term trend is up so long as there is limited land and population growth.
6) You can potentially make money over time.
7) More control over your lifestyle e.g. never have to move, remodel as you will.
8) Build real assets that can be passed along to your children.
9) Inflation hedge as your mortgage becomes cheaper in real dollars.
10) The first $250,000 in profits is tax free for singles, $500,000 for couples.
Samurai Financial offers one last advantage for trading "real estate negative for "real estate neutral."
"If you are still renting 40 years from now, you won't have a place to live rent-free in retirement, nor will you have an accumulated asset you can pass down or draw from. Like gasoline and tuition, the rent you pay now will undoubtedly be much higher when you become a senior citizen. Don't believe me? Just ask your parents or grandparents what they were paying in rent during their working days."
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Benefits and Updates:
MOUNTAIN VIEW MEADOWS
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1.
INTERIOR PHOTO CONTEST
: With Thanksgiving just around the corner, remember to submit photos of your
BEST FALL/THANKSGIVING INTERIOR DECORATIONS.
This is a great opportunity to showcase your Thanksgiving table, holiday fireplace mantel or other interior decorations. Only one photo per household so please select the best feature and email the photo to Rryland@MVMeadows.com no later than December 1
st
. The best photo will be featured in December's "Best in the Neighborhood" section of the newsletter and the winner will receive a $25 gift card.
2.
CHRISTMAS/HOLIDAY DECORATING CONTEST: It's time for the big event! In the spirit of the season, we invite you to dress up your homes, porches and yards in their holiday best. Sharing the holiday spirit and delighting your neighbors, family and friends is reward enough, but Mountain View Meadows throws in an extra incentive offering cash prizes and gift cards for the best decorations. Judging takes lights, color, special effects, style, tradition, fun and originality into account... and looks to see what's changed from last year. Judging will start December 23 and run through December 27 so be sure to keep your lights on after dark till 9:30 PM as much as possible during this time. Grand Prize: $200! For more information, contact Rryland@mvmeadows.com.
3.
PUMPKIN PATCH MONTESSORI DISCOUNT: Mountain View Meadows residents receive a $25 per month discount at Pumpkin Patch Montessori. 3350 Colton Drive in Helena. For details contact director Adrienne Kenison, who lives in the Antelope Trace neighborhood, at 406-422-4021.
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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. Just two blocks from Mountain View Park, this brand new home is completely landscaped and ready for you to move in before Christmas! Call 406-431-7680 for a private tour any day of the week. $344,900. MLS# 303182.
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Aspen Park at Mountain View Meadows
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2930 Big Timber Loop: "THE OPEN RANGE". Contract with contingency fell out on this NEW UPSCALE CONTEMPORARY CRAFTSMAN HOME with 2748 totally finished S.F. Fortunately, their loss opens the door to you! Move in before Christmas and experience the holidays in comfort, warmth and exceptional style. 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 the new construction on this 3 or 4BD/ 2.5BA home -- an unbeatable value at only $415,000! MLS#303180. Contact Anna Havranek at KellerWilliams at 406-438-1141 for a private showing.
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Craftsman Village at Mountain View Meadows
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275 Bella View: "THE MINER". A floorplan with room to grow. 1826 Finished Square Feet with an additional unfinished basement makes this 3432 S.F. home currently under construction perfect for the growing family or just because you want the extra space! Located across the street from the best neighborhood park in Helena, Sierra Custom Homes builds exceptional value into their homes with granite countertops throughout, beautiful master suites and stainless steel appliances. This 3BD/2BA Miner features a stunning wrap around porch and attractive craftsman details and includes an UG water system, free front yard landscaping, and an attached 2-car garage. For additional information contact Dawn Purvis, Century 21 at 406-439-6380. MLS# 301685. $345,960.
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2862 Alexis Avenue: "THE COACH HOUSE".
If you're looking for a 3-car garage that comes standard, then this nearly 1500 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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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. MLS# 303222.
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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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2896 Stacia: "THE PRIMROSE". A brand new 3BD/2BA Garden Home with main floor ensuite just underway! This 1526 S.F. two-story home features granite countertops, soft-close cabinets, laminate flooring, kitchen appliances and an attached 2-car garage. 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. $269,900.
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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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2850, 2852, 2860, 2862 & 2864 Runkle Parkway: FIVE
NEW CONDOS with amazing mountain views! Three 1635 S.F. and one 1660 S.F. single-story condos (one with a contract pending) and one 1812 S.F. two-story. 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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The Uplands at Mountain View Meadows
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366 Elouise Cobell: "THE WHITEFISH".
Beautiful new home well underway is in easy walking distance to the Blue Cross Blue Shield Headquarters. Impressive front 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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379 Elouise Cobell: "THE ELK PARK". New construction! This 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. MLS# 303181.
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Mountain View Meadows | 406-449-0800 | Info@MVMeadows.com
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http://www.MVMeadows.com
431 S. Alice Street
Helena, MT 59601
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Neighborhood:
HALLOWEEN WINNER!
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In case you missed it on Facebook, Derek & Hannah Dellwo at 2866 Twilight Avenue in the Craftsman Village neighborhood took first place in this year's Halloween Decorating Contest. But they weren't the only winners. Besides the fun and spooky decorations, all of you who opened your doors to the myriad of trick-or-treaters won the hearts of kids and adults alike. We heard comments throughout the evening that Mountain View Meadows is the best place for trick-or-treating. And the word has gotten out, because we doubled the number of treats we passed out this year! Thank you to everyone for creating such a fun, safe, and festive event for the kids! You've helped build memories and preserve traditions that will live on in the next generation. You're the best!
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Angelina Wright
Is about to move into her lovely Craftsman Garden Home recently completed by Sierra Custom Homes.
Congrat
ulations!
And Welcome to the Neighborhood!
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The Harvard Medical School lists
Walking
as one of the top five exercises you can ever do. Research has shown that exercise can do more for your health than medications. And it's a lot cheaper! Walking is simple, yet powerful. It can help you stay trim, improve cholesterol levels, strengthen bones, keep blood pressure in check, lift your mood and lower your risk for a number of diseases such as diabetes and heart disease. A number of studies have shown that walking and other physical activities can even improve memory and resist age-related memory loss.
One of the best parts of walking as your first and best step towards better health, is the small amount of equipment. All you need is a well-fitting and supportive pair of shoes and a safe place to walk. Start with walking for about 10 to 15 minutes at a time. Over time, you can start to walk farther and faster, until you're walking for 30 to 60 minutes on most days of the week.
Okay, so you know you
should do it, but you get stuck trying to decide where to walk, when to walk and whether you should walk alone. Then somehow, despite your best intentions, you end up doing nothing.
You're not alone. So the Harvard Medical School created a new publication called
Starting
to Exercise. This report brings you the easiest ways to get moving. But if reading isn't your favorite indoor activity, just look around your neighborhood and see who is out and about. Don't be afraid to reach out to a neighbor or someone down the street you often see walking. More times than not, a walker in your neighborhood will enjoy the company if you ask to join in once or twice a week. It's a fun and neighborly way to get started and once in the routine, it won't be long till you're out and about on your own.
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Blue Cross Blue Shield employees take a 15 minute walk break
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From
HEADING INTO THE
HOLIDAYS
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It seems a short time ago we gathered with family and friends to celebrate Thanksgiving. And now, we find ourselves a week away from another opportunity to spend time remembering what it means to be part of a family, what constitutes prosperity and what good fortune entails. If you are anything like us, you find yourself caught up in the trials and tribulations of your work and responsibilities. (Check out photos below for all the Fall Work going on at Mountain View Meadows this week!) There never seems to be enough time and energy to get it, whatever "it" is, done. Fortunately special times like Thanksgiving step in to remind us what we appreciate most about life; family, home, friends. I think Thanksgiving is the perfect time of year to reflect on prosperity and what it means to be prosperous. I know I've always felt I experienced a world of wealth and good fortune even when I had nothing of material value. I was thankful for the opportunity to go to school, to travel freely to learn about others, to gather with family and friends and to live in a society that valued and respected the rights of others. But with prosperity and good fortune comes responsibility. It is exceptionally important at Thanksgiving to remember that not everyone has a table in a comfortable home where family and friends can gather and share stories. With prosperity comes an obligation to not only be thankful for what one has but to care for others less fortunate. For Thanksgiving this year, if there is an empty spot at your table, invite a lonely neighbor to share your meal. If you have left-overs, think of donating to a homeless shelter such as "God's Love." And when you're out on Black Friday looking for the best deals, try not to overlook the man or woman on the corner who is thankful that you took the time to stop, look them in the eye and offer a smile and some spare change to help them enjoy a hot meal for the day or a warm bed for the night. It doesn't take much to make someone feel special, just a caring heart. In any case, wherever you are for the holiday, whether home at Mountain View Meadows or across town or across the country, we wish each and every one of you a safe and Happy Thanksgiving!
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Putting siding on The Senator built by Sierra Custom Homes
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Foundation going in on 1219 S.F. single-story WeatherAll condos on Twilight Avenue
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Casteel Construction on new custom Carriage Home
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Helena City Parks fall clean up at Mountain View Park
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Montana City Landscaping & Irrigation installing landscape wall
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