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Believe in Better:
A RACE AGAINST WINTER TIME
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On September 19th, East Helena school district announced placement of the final beam on the framework of the new East Helena High School. An article by Jonathon Ambarian in the Helena IR noted that the construction crews' next main goals will be to put on the roof and exterior walls to protect the interior from weather as winter approaches. It was announced just days ago that construction was set to get underway on "Red Alder"; a new 85-unit affordable housing apartment complex at the corner of Henderson and Brady on the west side of Helena. Even with such events as the early fall snow storm this past weekend and the fierce cold that often befalls Montana in winter, construction typically continues throughout the year. But certain aspects of construction are more difficult or virtually impossible once the ground freezes. At Mountain View Meadows, crews are working tirelessly to complete ground prep for six new streets in Phase 2 of The Uplands residential neighborhood behind Blue Cross Blue Shield. It is a race against winter time to lay curb and gutter for final plat approval so that construction of new homes and single-story condos can commence the first of the year. New home buyers are already reserving lots in this extremely desirable location, particularly the upper lots with stunning mountain views. The 60 single-family home lots range in size from a traditional city lot size of 7200 S.F. to nearly 1/3 acre, large enough to accommodate an approved parking pad for a boat or RV. All lots at Mountain View Meadows offer the reliability and convenience of City of Helena services including water and sewer along with boulevards, paved streets, sidewalks and accessibility to parks and open spaces. Four new single-story condo layouts ranging in size from 1236 S.F. to over 2,000 S.F. have caught the attention of some BCBS employees who love the idea of walking to work. Mountain View Meadows developer Mark Runkle believes street prep will beat the race against winter. "A little bit of snow won't deter progress," said Runkle. "I feel confident crews will have the curb and gutter in before Thanksgiving in time to go before the Commission for final plat approval." And then, says Runkle, "Bring on the winter."
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Building a Better Community:
2019 HBIA PARADE OF HOMES
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Each year the Helena Building Industry Association brings a special "Parade of Homes" to the community showcasing the talent and expertise of Helena area builders. The building industry not only helps to realize the pride of home-ownership for many people, but also provides jobs and opportunities for business stability and growth. A list of HBIA subcontractors accompanying each home as illustrated in the HBIA Parade of Homes magazine, demonstrates just how important the building industry is to the economic well-being of the community. The Parade of Homes appeals to a broader spectrum, however, than just those looking to buy a home or choose a builder. It is an excellent opportunity to check-out and become inspired by finishes, architectural details, colors, and design trends for those looking to update their own homes. And if nothing else, it is a fun way to explore the interiors of upscale homes that would otherwise not be available for public view. But it's not all about the glamour as the HBIA Board of Directors expressed in the magazine. "Once again we have a variety of home styles and price points in the parade. This represents the diversity of homes built by HBIA members. There is something for everyone to enjoy." The 2019 Parade of Homes runs this coming weekend, Oct. 4-6 starting at 2:00 PM on Friday and ending at 4:00 PM on Sunday. A $10 ticket gets you into any home any day or time. Tickets can be purchased online at
www.helenabia.com
and at various businesses throughout Helena. For additional information email build@helenabia.com.
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On Topic:
IS NOW THE TIME TO BUY?
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In a hot market, Easter Sunday and Christmas are the two best days to write up an offer for a new home. You probably won't have anyone else vying for the same home that day. But, other than Easter Sunday and Christmas, when is the best time to buy a new home?
In spring, real estate signs start popping up like crocuses. And most people agree that summer is the busiest selling season of the year. But there are those who will tell you, the best deals start now and continue through winter when sellers are more likely to throw in some perks or consider an offer below list price.
According to realtor.com, which tracks the buying and selling of homes in metropolitan areas across the U.S., the end of September marks the beginning of price reductions. Families with school-age children typically drop out of the market once school starts, postponing a move until the end of the school year. That reduces a fairly good-size segment of the buyer market. Nearly 6% of homes on the market at the end of the "busy season" will see a price reduction and are, on average, 2% cheaper than their peak listing.
Thelendersnetwork.com breaks down new listings by days on market and the percentage of homes selling above the list price. By their analysis, the best time of year to get the lowest price on a home is November and
December.
November and December are the months in which the lowest percentage of homes sell for more than the asking price and they are the third and fourth ranked months in terms of average days on the market. The downside is that home listings are also at yearly lows. This means you can expect to get the best deal on a house in November and December, but your options will be limited.
If options matter, the best time of the year to buy is April - July. According to The Lenders Network, "Between April and July you will find the most home listings of the year but prices will also be higher. In these months, houses are flying off the market at their fastest rates of the year. You can expect to find many more options in April, May, June, and July but you're going to pay for it."
With a larger pool of buyers in the spring and summer, sellers are less willing to take low offers, or offer incentives like paying for buyers closing costs or including appliances or central air. What you might find is, if you're looking to get the best bargain on a new home, then buying in the winter months is the best time to buy a house. If you're more interested in a wider selection of homes, spring through summer is the season for you.
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Benefits and Updates:
MOUNTAIN VIEW MEADOWS
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1.
PET STATIONS ARE IN: You may have noticed a number of signs on posts around your neighborhood reading "Please Clean-up After Your Dog". Below each sign is a container with small bags for dog lovers out for a walk without the necessary equipment needed to respectfully clean up after their pets. Do remember, however, that in this case, as you pick up the poo, you are left holding the bag. Carry it to your home and dispose of it properly in a waste container. Leaving a bag next to a pet station is, well, you know, about the worst example of pet owner etiquette ever.
2.
REMOVE RV'S, BOATS & TRAILERS: Please immediately remove your RV's, boats and trailers from the street. Avoid a fine and make your neighbors happy.
3.
IRRIGATION SYSTEMS BLOW-OUT:
The early winter storm caught us all a bit by surprise! If you haven't done it already, get yourself on the list with your favorite landscaper to blow out your irrigation system.
4.
ON THE LOOK-OUT FOR SNOW SHOVELERS: None of us really want to think about it, but fall snows are part of living in the beautiful state of Montana. For people whose work schedule doesn't coincide with the weather, along with people under the weather and the elderly, getting help shoveling snow is essential to safety and mobility. We've already received requests at the office for names of people willing to shovel snow from driveways and sidewalks. If you are willing and able to be put on a list, please email
info@mvmeadows.com with your contact info, your availability and what you charge for this service. We'll get your info out to the right people.
5.
FALL/HALLOWEEN DECORATING CONTEST: It's nearly impossible to believe a whole year has passed since announcing the last Fall/Halloween Decorating Contest. Here we are at that time of year again! If you are new to the neighborhood, this may be news to you, but each year Mountain View Meadows sponsors a Fall/Halloween Decorating Contest. Judging for the annual
HALLOWEEN/FALL DECORATING CONTEST will take place starting October 27th and run through Halloween night. Spice up your homes, porches and front yards with your favorite fall or Halloween decorations for a chance to win cash prizes. First place wins $100! Additional cash prizes of $75, $50, $25 & $10 along with 5 Honorable Mention $5 gift coupons will be awarded. Delight the kids in your neighborhood and dress up your homes for the Halloween season!
6.
BEST COSTUMED PET CONTEST:
Bring your costumed pet by the office on Halloween night between 5 & 7 for a chance to win a $20 gas gift card. Photos will be taken, and judged the next day, with the winner posted on Facebook.
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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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Craftsman Village at Mountain View Meadows
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2853 Jeannette Rankin: "THE SETTLER". Be the first on your street to own this home plan! The master suite on this nearly 1600 S.F. 3BD/2BA craftsman bungalow features a double vanity, separate shower and tub and a big walk-in closet. The walk-through kitchen allows easy access to both the dining room to the rear and the family room to the front with extra space perfect for a pocket office. Priced at $289,900, this Weatherall built home includes granite countertops, laminate floors, soft-close cabinets, kitchen appliances, front yard landscaping and an attached two-car garage. To tour this home call 431-7680.
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235 Bella View: "THE TOWN HALL".
A classic you'll love to live in right across from Mountain View Park! Over 1900 S.F., this 2-story craftsman 4-square offers 3 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths and an upstairs nursery or TV room. A fireplace, central air, side patio, full-front porch and an attached 2-car garage are only a few of the features that make this home the place to call home. Well underway, expect The Town Hall to be completed in time for the holidays. Wrap it up early by calling 431-7680. Priced at $329,900.
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2920 Stacia Avenue: "THE YARROW".
Brand new craftsman 2-story Garden Home with inviting front porch features a ½ bath downstairs for guests and 3 bedrooms and a bath upstairs. Built for comfort and economy, interior details on this Sierra Custom Home include granite, tile, laminate and stainless-steel appliances. Front yard landscaping, side-yard fencing and a raised bed with snow-crab ornamental tree all in the price. To tour this home priced at only $254,900 call 431-7680.
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2874 Alexis Avenue: "THE RANCHER".
This new 1836 S.F. single-story, 3BD/2BA Sierra Custom Home is just the ticket if you love great views and access to parks and trails. Currently being framed, you still have time to choose your own interior colors! The Rancher features a generous front porch, a covered side outdoor living space, an upscale master ensuite, granite countertops, laminate flooring, arched 9' ceilings, fireplace, and stainless-steel appliances. For additional information call 449-0800.
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2852 Runkle Parkway:
1660 S.F. Single-Story Courtyard Condo. Talk about plenty of space! With a flex room that can be a third bedroom, this luxury 3BD/2BA condo features a covered front door entry with side-lites, 10' tray ceilings in the living room and master bedroom, double-door pantry, big laundry with built in cabinets, tiled master bath with walk-in shower and double vanity, stainless-steel appliances, soft-close cabinets, quartz countertops, separate dining, two linen closets, coat closet, broom closet, a spacious covered outdoor living space with privacy fencing that can be fully enclosed, an attached 2-car garage with zero barrier entrance into the laundry/mud room and unobstructed mountain views. Low monthly condo fee covers exterior building and landscape maintenance and street and front sidewalk snow removal. Priced at $309,900.
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2870, 2872 & 2874 Runkle Parkway:
Another popular 3-unit condo building on Runkle Parkway, all with outstanding views of the Elkhorn Mountains. Two single-story 1635 S.F. 3BD/2BA units flank a 1932 S.F. 2-story with 3 upstairs bedrooms and an additional TV/entertainment room. All three homes have attached 2-car garages and front covered porches plus the single-story plans come with covered outdoor living spaces out back. Hurry in to tour these homes, talk pricing and stake your claim. After business hours and weekend tours available by appointment. Call 406-431-7680.
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2880 & 2882 Runkle Parkway:
New 1219 S.F. duplex condos well underway -- Absolutely perfect for the "downsizer" or the "first time" home buyer! Condo features 2 bedrooms and 2 baths, a pocket desk, an attached 2-car garage and a covered outdoor living space. Design amenities include granite countertops, soft-close cabinets, water-resistant laminate flooring, tiled laundry, baths and entry, and carpeted bedrooms. Electric range, refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher and garbage disposal included! Monthly condo fee is currently $130 and pays for sidewalk snow removal, mowing and landscaping care as well as exterior building insurance and maintenance. Priced at $254,900. Call now! 406-449-0800.
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215 Bella View: "THE BARRISTER". This popular 4BD/3BA 2-story floorplan located across from Mountain View Park, features all the upscale finishes you've come to expect in a Sierra Custom Home. Granite countertops, soft-close cabinets and tiled master shower will bathe you in comfort. For additional information call Dawn Purvis, 406-439-6380, or visit the Mountain View Meadows Info and Sales Center at 431 S. Alice St. $309,900.
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2847 Jeannette Rankin: "THE TRADER". This affordable 3BD/2.5BA two-story featuring nearly 1500 S.F. of living space may be just the right fit for both your lifestyle and budget. Located down the street from what we believe is the best neighborhood park in Helena, you'll enjoy mountain views from your front porch where you'll have a prime seat for next year's fireworks display. This desirable craftsman home with granite countertops, laminate floors, soft-close cabinets, kitchen appliances, front yard landscaping and an attached two-car garage is scheduled for completion mid-August just in time for you to move in before school starts. Stop by the office at 431 S. Alice St. to stake your claim on this new home priced at just $269,900.
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2871 Jeannette Rankin: "THE RANGER". Enjoy the mountain views from your covered side porch on this classic craftsman 1583 S.F. bungalow from Sierra Custom Homes. This 3BD/2BA single-story home with attached 2-car garage includes all the upgrades you want from stainless steel appliances, granite countertops and soft-close cabinets to laminate flooring, tiled wet areas and tall 9' ceilings. Sit back and relax on your full front porch or take a short walk to Mountain View Park. Front Yard landscaping included courtesy of the developer. Stop by the MVM office for a personal showing of this new home nearly ready for move in is priced at $319,900.
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2908 Stacia: "THE PRIMROSE". A brand new 3BD/2BA Garden Home with main floor ensuite. This 1526 S.F. two-story home features granite countertops, soft-close cabinets, laminate flooring, kitchen appliances and an attached 2-car heated garage. Side yard fence included plus front yard and rear carriage lane landscaping! Easy walking distance to Mountain View Park. RD financing available. For additional information, please stop by the MVM Information & Sales Center at 431 S. Alice St. or call Dawn Purvis, Century 21,
at 406-439-6380. MLS# 21913419. $271,500.
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The Uplands at Mountain View Meadows
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363 Elouise Cobell: This 3BD/2BA single-story Sierra Custom Home is just getting underway! With 1591 S.F. a few of the amenities in this home include a gas fireplace, coffered 9' ceilings, covered porches, granite countertops, soft close cabinets, tile floor in baths and laundry, stainless steel appliances, and an attached 2-car garage. For more information stop by our Sales Office at 431 S. Alice Street or call 406-449-0800.
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371 Elouise Cobell: Another beautiful Sierra Custom Home about to get started! This 1977 S.F. home has 3 beds plus an office and 2 baths. Single-story, gas fireplace, coffered ceilings, arches in hallways, covered porches, granite countertops, soft close cabinets, laminate, tile and carpet for flooring, stainless steel appliances, large walk-in pantry and an attached 3-car garage! You are sure to fall in love with this home priced at $359,900. For additional information, please stop by the MVM Info & Sales Center or call 406-449-0800.
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347 Elouise Cobell: This 3BD/2BA 1860 S.F. Sierra Homes single level design and spacious appeal makes it one of The Uplands most popular new floor plans. The kitchen is a chef's dream with ample counter space, plenty of cabinet storage, large walk in pantry, stainless steel appliances and a breakfast bar on the island. The expansive living room, with Coffered ceilings and a gas fireplace, adjoins the dining area completing the eating and entertainment space. The private master suite boasts large expansive windows and dual vanity bathroom. The other two sizable bedrooms, one of which can be converted to a den or office, share the second bathroom and round out this well-planned home. For more information on this property, call or text Dawn Purvis, 406-439-6380. MLS# 303019.
$339,900.
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Aspen Park at Mountain View Meadows
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Currently all homes under construction in Aspen Park have been sold. Stop by the office at 431 S. Alice Street to discuss your plan for a new home at Aspen Park. We'll help you choose the perfect lot and connect you with the best builder to make your dream home a reality.
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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:
BEST NEIGHBOR OF THE YEAR!
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Because of you, Mountain View Meadows has grown into a thriving, neighbor-friendly community. We thought it might be nice to feature annually one of our residents who has distinguished themselves as an exemplary neighbor in "Best in Our Neighborhood". But we need your help. Consider nominating one of your neighbors for this special distinction by submitting a paragraph or two about something he or she did in 2019 that caught your attention in the most positive way. It could be something done for you personally or for your neighborhood or for the greater Mountain View Meadows community. Submit your nomination to
Rryland@MVMeadows.com
by February 1, 2020 so that this person can be featured here and honored at the annual HOA meeting in March. It seems like a long way away, but if you start now to pay close attention to the kindness and thoughtfulness of others, you might find that the person living right next door deserves recognition as the best neighbor of the year!
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Sherry Rushford
Is thrilled with her brand new single-level Craftsman Condo across from the open space park.
Mary & Peter Carparelli
Have moved in and are enjoying the comfort of their modern Sierra Custom Home.
Is delighted with the views from his lovely home by Weatherall Builders in Craftsman Village.
Joshua & Breann Paschka
Are settling into their beautiful 2-story Craftsman Home by Sierra Custom Homes.
Denise Pizzini
Just closed on her magnificent single-level Sierra Custom Home and she is getting ready to move in!
Congrat
ulations!
And Welcome to the Neighborhood!
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Fun & Fitness
ALL IN A DAY'S WORK
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Exercise isn't for everyone. At least not by way of classic sit-ups, spin classes or hot yoga. But daily chores and everyday activities offer an opportunity to burn calories in small doses. When the work adds up, so do the number of calories burned.
For instance, you do laundry, right? Did you know that on average, you can burn 55 calories per each load? And if you stand to fold your clothes or walk up and down the stairs to put clothes away, you can burn even more. Just because you aren't in the gym doesn't mean you aren't burning calories.
A 2018 article by "Michelle" on mypursestrings.com sets the record straight on everyday exercise, the kind you do just by living. Here is her take
on calories burned while you are just doing what you do.
Taking Out the Trash
50 calories per half hour of sorting & carrying recyclables
Playing with the Kids
300 calories for an hour-long soccer game
100 calories swinging for half an hour
44 calories in a 5-minute game of tag
Grocery Shopping
150 calories per shopping trip
15 calories per 10 minutes standing in line
120 calories per 30 minutes pushing a shopping cart
22 calories per 15 minutes putting away groceries
Pushing a Stroller
150 calories per hour-long stroller walk
Carrying a Small Child*
100 calories per half hour
*Don't have a small child anymore? Carry a heavy bag.
Calories Burned Walking the Dog
205 calories per hour
Calories Burned Laughing*
10 to 40 calories per 10 minutes of laughing
*Put on a funny movie. Better yet, spend time with friends that make you laugh the most.
Calories Burned During a Mad Dash of Cleaning
At least 200 calories depending on the mess
Loading the dishwasher for half an hour burns 105 calories
Making beds burns 130 calories per half hour
Yelling because no one in your family offers to help burns up to 16 calories per hour
General housework, you burn about 165 calories per hour
And on those days when you just don't feel like getting out of bed? Well, just don't lie there. Sleep! Michelle ends her article on everyday exercise with perhaps the most curious calorie burning activity of all. Michelle points out that the number of calories burned depends largely on weight and muscle mass, but 38 calories burned per hour sleeping is the average for a 130-150-pound person. That's close to 300 calories for a good night's sleep. I'll take it!
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Mark and I took a drive around Mountain View Meadows last week just ahead of the snow storm. We were exploring the undeveloped areas and envisioning what will be next. The Uplands Phase 2 behind Blue Cross Blue Shield will soon be final platted. Craftsman Village Phase 6 north of the Park is in final stages of Engineering. Once engineering is set, the plan will be off to the City for preliminary approval and we'll start moving dirt and laying pipe in the spring. But what's next after preliminary approval of Craftsman Phase 6? With a sincere goal of offering a home and lifestyle product that fits the needs of an ever growing and diverse community, we started batting around the idea of offering a new product, one that might appeal to that buyer who prefers city services but isn't ready to give up the feeling of just a little more space between homes. We remain committed to higher density development which minimizes the individual foot print while maximizing shared parks and open spaces. But we also know that there are those who would love the convenience and reliability of Helena city services but just can't downsize enough to fit their toys on a conventional city-size lot. It's just in the idea phase, but we're considering the concept of ½ acre city-estate lots with both street front and alley entry so that a boat and RV could be parked behind the home without marring the streetscape or detracting from the look and feel of the neighborhood. We know that creating a lot of that size with city infrastructure won't be cheap, but it may appeal to enough people that it is worth considering in Aspen Park Phase 2. It's always interesting to explore new ideas for what comes next. And hopefully the best ideas make it onto paper then to engineering and on to final plat!
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| The Uplands Phase 2 before the snow storm |
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| The Uplands Phase 2 after the snow storm! |
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Wake up to this amazing view from your walk-out lot on Big Timber Loop in Aspen Park Phase 1. But hurry! Only 2 left!
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Traditional lots available in Aspen Park Phase 1 just perfect for your new home!
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