Come Home to Better! Mountain View Meadows: Mid-Winter 2024

Mid-Winter 2024

Believe in Better:

A Bright Spot for Helena

Take a trip out Colonial Drive towards Montana City to check out the new Maverick station nearing completion on the east side of the south interchange. Like all things new, changes in the landscape bring about a certain level of debate. For some, the convenience will be a bright spot in their day, for others the bright lights a headache. The new station, however, sits at the south end of a long-planned connector between I-15 and Highway 12 -- and the City of Helena has set its sights on making the connector a reality. Applying for a RAISE (Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity) grant through the U.S. Department of Transportation, the 1.3-million-dollar grant would provide funds for the planning and design of the East Side Arterial Connector. The Connector could help reduce overall congestion at the Capital Interchange and promote system redundancy for emergency services in Helena and East Helena. In addition, it will open city development on property owned by the Padbury Group located between Mountain View Meadows and I-15. Mountain View Meadows has already installed 3,000 feet of “Crossroads Parkway” which makes up nearly a third of the proposed connector. A major infrastructure investment, Crossroads Parkway was built to required state highway standards in preparation for a future connector between the south interchange and Highway 12. Built in two phases, the second section of Crossroads Parkway opened in January. Although the future of the connector between the south interchange and Highway 12 remains uncertain, the recent 1600’ extension of Crossroads Parkway by Mountain View Meadows will make possible a new senior living community planned by St. Peter’s Health in the Crossroads Commercial neighborhood: an undebatably bright spot for Helena.

Building a Better Community:

Helena Senior Center

Local non-profit Rocky Mountain Development Council, Inc. dedicates itself to serving Seniors living in and around Helena. Its programs for Seniors include the Helena Senior Center, Daily Dinner Club, Senior Companion Program, Foster Grandparent Program, Retired & Senior Volunteer Program and Rocky’s Agency on Aging. The Helena Senior Center acts as a hub for many activities offering older adults the opportunity to have lunch and participate and socialize in a friendly atmosphere. Located in the Neighborhood Center (200 South Cruse Avenue), the Helena Senior Center is an active and positive place to spend time, whether participating in scheduled events or just relaxing in the parlor. Often it is the meeting place for programs on senior issues and may host health screenings, income tax assistance, and assistance with Medicare or Medicaid issues. From exercise, writing, craft and art classes to bingo, pinochle and bridge, the Senior Center brims with activity from 8:30 AM till 3:30 PM Monday through Friday. Although many Seniors participate in these programs on their own volition, some depend on transportation services to get them to and from the Center. With that need in mind, Seniors living within the Helena City Limits have access to a 13-seat shuttle bus equipped with a wheelchair lift. However, Seniors must call 406-447-1680 at least 24 hours in advance to check availability and schedule pickup. Transportation coordinator Mindy Diehl acknowledges that Rocky may not be able to accommodate every request due to high demand and space limitations and that the best days to access transportation services are Monday, Tuesday and Friday. Senior Center program director Bill Peña invites everyone to take part in activities. “It’s a healthy, safe and fun place to be!” said Peña. Although not required to participate, a $20 annual membership at the Center includes access to the “Voice of Experience” newsletter keeping Seniors up to date on activity schedules and Senior issues. For additional information check out “What We Do” at https://www.rmdc.net.

On Topic:

A Stable & Balanced Market?

Can anyone really predict the housing market? For those who champion real estate investment as a means to build wealth, watching housing market trends makes sense. But for the average homebuyer, homeownership is a personal decision based on any number of economic factors and lifestyle choices. However, certain factors intersect in the housing market that affect both investment and individual circumstances and preferences.

Marco Santarelli is an investor, author, Inc. 5000 entrepreneur and founder of Norada Real Estate Investments. In a February 5th article on noradorealestate.com, Santarelli lays out his 2024 forecast for the Montana housing market.

“The Montana Housing Market remains strong, thanks to a combination of high demand, limited supply, and continuously rising house prices,” wrote Santarelli. “Also, based on the current market indicators, there is no immediate indication of a housing market crash in Montana. The balanced inventory, reasonable sale to list ratios, and the steady growth in home values suggest a stable and resilient market.”

Stability. Now that’s a welcome word for those looking to purchase a home no matter the reason. Yet home sales decreased in Montana by 11.2% in the past year. Why?

“The decline in the number of homes sold could be attributed to various factors including changes in buyer behavior, economic uncertainties, or a potential shortage of affordable housing options,” wrote Santarelli. “Furthermore, the data reveals a 0.99% decrease in the number of homes available for sale. The shrinking inventory poses challenges for potential buyers as a limited supply often leads to increased competition and higher prices.”

According to Zillow, the average home value in Montana reached $442,052 in 2023, reflecting a 2% increase over the past year--and demand remains high. However, with 837 new listings added in December, Zillow predicts fresh opportunities for both buyers and sellers.

“As of the latest data, the Montana housing market presents a balanced scenario, with a median sale to list ratio of 0.979,” wrote Santarelli. “This ratio suggests a fair equilibrium between buyer and seller interests. Considering the current state of the Montana housing market, now appears to be a favorable time for prospective buyers. However, individual circumstances and preferences should always be considered before making such a significant decision.”

Benefits and Updates:

MOUNTAIN VIEW MEADOWS

1. A GARDEN PARK OPTION: A questionnaire was emailed to you the end of February in preparation for the annual HOA meeting scheduled for March 26. The questionnaire included feedback on a proposed Garden Park. If you think you might use (at a nominal fee to cover water usage) a 4’ x 4’ or 4’ x 8’ raised garden bed to plant flowers, herbs, or vegetables, please email Rebecca at risland05@yahoo.com. Your interest will help determine if a Garden Park is a good option for an empty lot off Twilight.

2. CATS? We all know what is expected of dog owners: keep your dog on leash, maintain control of your dog at all times, keep your dogs off other people’s property and clean up its poo. But what about cats? Cat owners, please be aware that cats roaming the neighborhood have the potential to cause conflict with neighbors. Cats dig in flower beds, kill birds and incite dogs to bark. Please keep your cats inside or on leash. Remember, a fence may keep a dog contained but it’s no match for a cat.

3. WE’RE NOT OUT OF THE SNOW YET: Please remember City of Helena ordinances require you to clear snow from public sidewalks adjacent to your home within 24 hours after the snow stops falling. If you own a condo, the Condo HOA is responsible for clearing your sidewalks and strives to deliver snow removal services faster than required by City Ordinance whenever possible. Please call Mark at 406.431.7305 if you have any issues with snow or ice that requires immediate attention.

4. YES, I’LL SHOVEL YOUR SNOW: Danielle has compiled a list of people who have expressed an interest in shoveling snow this winter for those of you who can’t. If you are in need of help, email Danielle.mvm@hotmail.com and she’ll send you the list. Some people included a price per hour while others will negotiate based on the job. And if you haven’t added your name to the list but are willing to clear driveways or sidewalks for a small fee, let Danielle know and she will add your info to the list.

New Homes For Sale:

Plans to Build and Build to Suit

Pricing for new single-family homes and condos at Mountain View Meadows if not shown may be available upon request. Not all available homes and condos are included below. To learn more about your favorite home or for a complete list of plans under construction call the Mountain View Meadows Sales and Information Center at 406-449-0800 for an appointment or stop by our office anytime during regular business hours. And remember, realtors are always welcome!

Homes at Mountain View Meadows

2895 Jeannette Rankin: “The Aster”. This charming 2BD/2BA home is packed with all the upscale features you’ve come to expect in a Sierra Custom Home. At 1019 SF, The Aster is perfect for the discerning home buyer who expects quality no matter the size of home. Sound like you? Then call Dawn today at 406-443-1432 or stop by the MVM office at 431 S. Alice St. for a tour. Completion of this classic craftsman home is expected early April in time to enjoy the spring in your brand new home! $369,900. MLS# 30019974.

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2885 Adam Run: “The Outlaw”. Beautiful 3BD/2BA, 1455 SF Craftsman home designed to create the perfect balance between size, price and livability. You’ll love the views from your front porch while you enjoy privacy from your rear covered deck. The spacious owners suite features a vaulted ceiling, a walk-in closet, double vanity, tiled floor and shower, a linen closet and a big laundry room just steps away. In the kitchen you’ll appreciate granite countertops, soft-close cabinets, a huge kitchen island and stainless steel appliances along with a dining nook and sliding glass doors to the patio. High ceilings in the living room provide volume while the 9’ wall height in the additional two bedrooms adds an extra feeling of spaciousness. The Outlaw is under roof with drywall starting soon. For a quick tour, call Danielle at 406-461-9748 or stop by the office at 431 S. Alice St.

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2883 Jeannette Rankin: “The Meadowrue”. A lovely 3BD/2.5BA, 1500 SF craftsman home featuring a main floor owners suite plus two upstairs bedrooms for family or guests. Although just underway, most Sierra Custom Homes in Craftsman Village sell early in construction so it is never too soon to call! 406-431-7680 for information.

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2844 Adam Run: “The Getaway”. Big and Beautiful with unobstructed mountain views. Just under 2500 SF, this 3-level walk-out was designed to provide a getaway space for every person in your family. The main floor features tall ceilings and upper windows that light up the great room along with a fireplace, kitchen with a raised breakfast bar, a walk-in pantry, a powder room, laundry room and entry to a covered deck. A half level up you’ll find the owner’s suite with private bath, and two bedrooms with a shared bath and a half level down, a family room, 4th bedroom and a third full bath along with lots of storage and sliding glass doors leading onto a patio. Call Rebecca today at 406-431-7680 for a private tour. Price available soon.

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2880 Adam Run: “The Chief”. Will 3652 SF fit your needs? If you want unobstructed mountain views on a walk-out lot with all City of Helena services, then don’t wait to call for an appointment to discuss details on making The Chief your next home. Currently under construction, The Chief offers main floor living featuring a premium owners suite, a dining room or home office, a great room with fireplace, two additional bedrooms, a second bath and a laundry room. The unfinished basement features plenty of storage space while providing an opportunity to add a game room, great room, and two more bedrooms and a bath. Well underway; call 406-431-7680 for info.

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2876 Adam Run: “The Banker”. 1939 SF x two! What? 1939 Finished Square Feet for luxurious main floor living plus another 1939 SF walkout basement to finish at your leisure. If I’m adding that right, you’re looking at a whopping 3,878 SF! Although early in construction, you will want to call now for a one-on-one meeting to discuss what it takes to get your name on a Buy-Sell. A beautiful Sierra Custom Home plan, with stunning mountain views, The Banker will meet all your expectations and more. Serious enquiries only, please. 406-431-7680.

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2898 Big Timber Loop: This exquisitely designed Sierra Custom home in upscale Aspen Park may be early in the construction process, but it’s never too early to call for information. 406-431-7680.

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2889 Adam Run: "The Arrow". This 3BD/2.5BA new home is just getting underway but you should consider staking your claim today. With a whopping 2,116 SF on two floors, you will have all the room you need to live large. By McCall Homes, The Arrow features quartz countertops in the kitchen, Whirlpool Stainless Steel appliances, a downstairs living room as well as a second floor family room, and an attached 2-car garage. For additional information call 406-651-5354.

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2884 Travis: “The Ranger”. $474,900. You will absolutely fall in love with this home! Expressions of style abound throughout. But don’t take our word for it. Call Rebecca at 431-7680 for a tour of this new home well under construction. Sierra homes sell quickly so you’ll want to get your foot in the door before it is listed on the MLS. The 3BD/2BA Ranger features a covered side patio, walk-in tiled shower, AC, an attached 2-car garage and at completion will wow you with all its upscale finishes. Ring in the new year with a brand-new home in the much sought after Craftsman Village neighborhood of Mountain View Meadows.

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2878 Travis Ave: “The Side-kick”. A new 1255 SF home for only $384,900? Yes, you read that right! This 2BD/2BA home features a great owners’ suite with upscale finishes throughout including beautiful granite countertops, soft-close birch cabinets, stainless steel appliances, walk-in tiled shower, vaulted ceilings, AC and an attached 2-car garage. What a way to start the new year! Call 406-431-7680 for a tour or stop by the office at 431 S. Alice St. open weekdays 10-6. MLS# 30016664.

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2647 Upland Ave: A brand-new 4-bedroom, 2,568 SF Sierra Custom Home with awesome views. That’s right! Four bedrooms! But that’s not all. There is still an office space on the first floor that could act as a 5th bedroom! The Premium owners’ suite includes a double vanity, water closet, walk-in tiled shower and a huge (and I mean, huge) walk-in closet. Along with the office, the downstairs boasts a spacious kitchen with a large central island, a café, a half bath and a gathering/living room for both relaxing and entertaining. The patio off the café offers tons of privacy as the lot backs onto a hill so there is no home directly behind. Nearly ready for move-in, call Dawn today at 406-439-6380. You’ll be glad you did! MLS#30019284. $589,900.

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Condos at Mountain View Meadows

2942 Vista View: 1334 SF Single-level 2BD/2BA condo; $404,900.

See for yourself how pampered you feel when you step inside this spacious, single-level 2-bedroom condo with all the upscale features you’ve come to expect from a new condo at Mountain View Meadows. This 2BD/2BA home boasts vaulted ceilings, tiled baths, tiled walk-in shower, private water closet, double vanity, laundry room cabinets and sink, raised breakfast bar, soft-closed cabinets, pantry, AC, lots of natural light and gorgeous views. Add in a large covered rear deck, covered front porch, 2-car attached garage and easy access to parks and paved trails and you’ll be first to sign on the dotted line. Ready for move in as soon as you close! MLS# 30018902. Call Anna at 406-438-1141.

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2927 Aspen View Loop: 1464 SF Single-level 2BD/2BA Condo with Flex Room; $399,900.

Fronting a courtyard instead of a street? Check out how nice it feels to take your morning walk around a landscaped courtyard just steps from your covered front porch. Warm colors set the tone for this welcoming, spacious condo. The kitchen features dark birch cabinets, brushed granite countertops, soft-close cabinets, stainless-steel appliances, pantry and garbage disposal. Vaulted ceilings in the great room and owners suite, a tiled walk-in shower, double vanity, private water closet, cabinets in the laundry room, AC and easy access to utilities are just a few of the special features that set this condo apart. The flex room provides just that extra space you want for a craft or exercise room, home office or spare bedroom for guests. Add in a covered outdoor living space and an attached 2-car garage and you’ll have all the space you need for relaxing and tinkering at home. Low $165/month condo dues cover street and sidewalk snow removal, exterior building maintenance and insurance, landscape maintenance, and contributions to common amenities. For a tour, contact Anna Havranek at 406-438-1141. Sorry, no rentals. MLS #30014775.

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2948 Vista View: 1687 SF Single-level 3BD/2BA Condo; $479,900.

Beautiful single-level open floorplan with amazing views and lots of natural light. The spacious kitchen features granite countertops, soft close cabinets, pantry, raised breakfast bar, garbage disposal and stainless-steel appliances. You’ll love the tray ceilings in the great room and owners’ suite and the gorgeous walk-in tiled shower. Other standout features include a sink and cabinets in the laundry room and a large covered outdoor deck. The condo includes AC and an attached 2-car garage with easy access to utilities and the 2.5-mile paved Fun & Fitness Bike/Ped Trail that connects Highway 282 to Highway 12. With the feel of an upscale single-family home, these 3BD/2BA condos will wow you with spacious comfort. Low $165 a month condo fees cover exterior building insurance and upkeep, landscape maintenance, private street and sidewalk snow removal and contributions to common amenities.

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2945 & 2947 Vista View: Raising the roof on a brand new 1845 SF condo building... and one side is already under contract! You won't want to miss your chance to own the other side. Yeah, it’s that big and so are the views! This luxury 3BD/2BA condo features trayed ceilings, granite countertops, beautiful laminate flooring, tiled baths and laundry, walk-in tiled shower, walk-in pantry, soft-close cabinets, stainless steel appliances, a dedicated dining space and an attached 2-car garage--Everything you need to enjoy a comfortable, convenient lifestyle! Stop by the office at 431 S. Alice Street. Priced at $509,900.

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Building Lots at Mountain View Meadows

2804 Alyson Rain & 2868 Adam Run: Wouldn’t you love an amazing mountain view? But then, you also want the convenience of Helena City services. Hard to find? Not at Mountain View Meadows! This fall would be a great time to start planning on a new Sierra Custom Home to be built on a lot with unobstructed mountain views. Two view lots are available in the Craftsman North section of the Craftsman Village neighborhood, within easy walking distance of Mountain View Park. Planning a new build takes time so get the process going now to be ready to break ground this spring. Interested? Drop us a line at info@mvmeadows.com or call Rebecca at 406-431-7680 to pick your perfect homesite.

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Recently Sold

2877 Travis: “The Sierra Pioneer”. $419,900. What a great price on a 1476 SF, 3BD/2BA Sierra Custom Home! You’ll love it when you see it so waste no time calling for a tour. The home features champaign fixtures, a fireplace, walk-in tiled shower in the owners’ suite, an attached 2-car garage, AC and lots of upscale touches you’ve come to expect in a Sierra Custom Home. Stop by the MVM office at 431 S. Alice St. for a tour. For additional details on making this new home yours, call Dawn at 443-1432. MLS# 30016337.

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2667 Upland Ave: Just shy of 2200 SF, this newly designed, upscale Sierra Custom Home with a tandem 3-car garage is one of only four new homes left in The Uplands neighborhood at Mountain View Meadows. You need to tour this home to experience its luxurious feel and sense of style both inside and out. With 3 bedrooms and an office, you won’t have to sacrifice space when working from home. Call 406.431.7680 for an appointment. Serious enquiries only.

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2651 Upland Ave: “The Bannock XL”. Ready for Move-in Today! Every seller says their home is a “must see” but the Bannock XL is one you won’t want to miss. We took a popular 2-story plan and upsized it to create an awesome 2-story home featuring a main-floor office or guest bedroom, a spacious upstairs owners suite and a 3-car garage. And if you need a big laundry room, you can’t beat the Bannock XL! With 3 bedrooms 2.5 bathrooms and the main floor flex space, everyone in your house will find their own private place to slip away. Built by Weatherall Builders, the Bannock XL includes granite countertops and soft-close cabinets throughout, stainless-steel appliances, walk-in tiled shower, laminate flooring downstairs, carpeting in 2nd floor bedrooms and tile in bathrooms and laundry. AC is included in this beautiful new 1900 SF home just waiting for you to select your exterior colors for painting in the spring. Call Rebecca for a tour at 406-431-7680. $509,900.

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2990 Aspen View Loop: 1285 SF Single-level 2BD/2BA Condo; $374,900.

Enjoy natural beauty across the street from your covered front porch! Stone birch cabinets in the kitchen provide a gentle contrast to the Reserved White walls and Fantasy White granite countertops. Flooring throughout include laminate in the great room, kitchen and hallways, tile in all wet areas and carpet in bedrooms. The owners suite features a vaulted ceiling in the bedroom, walk-in closet, double vanity and walk-in tiled shower. You’ll enjoy the convenience of laundry room cabinets and walk-in access to utilities. Add in AC, an attached 2-car garage, a covered outdoor patio and easy access to sidewalks and paved walking trails that lead to neighborhood parks, and you’ll find comfort and relaxation both inside and outside your brand-new condo. For additional information stop by the MVM office at 431 S. Alice St. for a tour. MLS# 30014889.

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Aspen Park at Mountain View Meadows

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The Best in Our

Neighborhood:

Who's Your

Next Neighbor

of the Year?

The nominations are in. It’s questionable that the list represents all the people who did something pleasantly surprising, ultimately unexpected or compassionately gracious that benefited their neighbors or the greater Mountain View Meadows community during the past year. But the short list included here represents the best. For a second year in a row, Jerry Guay, 2692 Summers Crossing received a nomination for being “so helpful and always there when anyone needs him. [He is] such an asset to our neighborhood!” Next up are Rich and Tauron Ferguson, 2691 Jeannette Rankin, who put the spotlight on “The Uplands” sign. “It really added to that area!” Last but not least to be nominated -- Tom Naegele. Tom, VP of the MVM HOA, volunteered time at the 4th of July Community Celebration and the Halloween Haunted Park and assembled five recently added park amenities (two park benches, two picnic tables and a bike rack) and delivered them into place. Tom lives at 2737 Favor Ave. in the Antelope Trace neighborhood. One of these thoughtful nominees will be named “Neighbor of the Year” at the March 26 annual HOA meeting. As we said when we sent out the call for nominations: It is an honor to be nominated. Your neighbors appreciate and recognize your kind acts, volunteerism and support. Congratulations!

Welcome to the Neighborhood

Michael Grove

Is enjoying his beautiful Trailblazer home by Sierra Custom Homes.

Larry & Kari Jensen

Are ecstatic with their

brand new Senator home

on a corner lot.

Kyle Kambic &

Kim Trudgeon

Are getting settled into their beautiful 2-story McCall home in Craftsman North.

Ellis & Jackqulene Lee

Have moved into their delightful single-story home by Sierra Custom Homes.

Margaret McIntosh

Is excited to join the Mountain View Meadows community in her lovely single-story

Aspen View condo.

Jim Clay

Is thrilled to be in a brand new condo by Weatherall Builders.

Brady Dahl

Is getting close to closing

on his McCall built home

with nice views of the

Sleeping Giant.

Kevin Jagoda

Can't wait to pick up the keys to his large 2-story home in The Uplands.

Congratulations! And Welcome

to the Neighborhood!

Fun & Fitness

Fight Cabin Fever & Winter Woes

Cabin Fever? Is it real? Absolutely! And it can affect your health. But don’t let the winter woes win. With your health at risk, fight back!

“If you’re feeling cooped up and lacking energy in the thick of winter, you’re not alone” said Dr. Elizabeth Meade, during a segment on King5 in Seattle, Washington. “With winter in full force, many people may be noticing healthy habits going out the window and in particular, eating more things they might normally try to limit.”

“There are actual physiologic reasons why our food cravings change seasonally,” said Dr. Meade. “In winter, our bodies actually experience hormonal changes. We may make more melatonin and less serotonin, leading to changes in mood and decreased energy. “You might even experience seasonal affective disorder or depression in the winter.”

The holiday season takes its toll on health as well. From Thanksgiving to Valentine’s Day, people tend to eat more sugary foods and treats. “We're still in the "holiday hangover" period when we have more sugary foods and treats sitting around (hello, Valentine's Day chocolate!), and may still not be back to our usual healthy habits after the season of celebrations,” said Dr. Meade. “Food is more accessible, we might be more sedentary than usual or even bored, all of which can lead to mindless eating and snacking.”

So what to do to get back your healthy habits that got buried under all that snow? Check out Dr. Meade’s suggestions:

1. What's easily accessible really matters. Stock your fridge and pantry with foods that are nourishing and unprocessed.

2. Keep exercising, even if it's not your usual routine.

3. Choose high-fiber, whole-grain carbohydrates that help keep you full and satisfied.

4. Cook your veggies! Hot foods may feel more comforting in the winter.

5. Drink water - we are often thirsty when we think we're hungry.

6. Get rid of sweetened beverages and foods with added sugar.

Finally, said Dr. Meade, “Adopt the mentality that you are defined by your next decision, not your last one. If we eat something we feel we shouldn't or skip a workout, we can feel like we've failed completely. Focus instead on what good choices you have the opportunity to make for yourself today, not what you could have done better yesterday.”

Dr. Elizabeth Meade is a board-certified pediatrician practicing Pediatric Hospital Medicine in Seattle and frequent contributor to KING 5.

From

Mark & Rebecca

Staving Off Frostbite

Baby, it’s cold outside! Just leaving the house to head to work or back home after brings on the chills. I feel sorry (or perhaps guilty) watching people working outside in the cold. Burrrr! I find myself shivering seeing folks out in below freezing temperatures clearing sidewalks for hours on end only to have another storm blow in so they have to start all over again. And all those crews building homes? I hold my breath while they maneuver their way on snow-covered roofs and operate dangerous equipment with frosty fingers. I get it -- it’s what they do to make a living -- but who wants to work in the cold? With our incredibly short summers what choice do they have but to work all winter long? I could be wrong, but it might lift their spirits if we take a moment to say thanks to someone working outside, especially when they’re clearing our sidewalks to make it safer for us to maneuver or doing their part to solve the ongoing housing shortage. Even if you’re paying HOA dues or city taxes or coughing up hard earned money for a new home, very few of us would trade our cozy offices for working outside in the cold. Your appreciation might just warm a few hearts -- and stave off a nasty case of frostbite.