All About Montana Real Estate

By Kat Palmiotti, Helping your Montana dreams take root
(406-270-3667, kat@thehousekat.com, Broker/REALTOR®)
This ~20 acre parcel with amazing views is listed for $240,000. Here's what the listing for NHN (No House Number) Emmons Canyon Road states:Do you dream of being away from it all, just you and nature? Have you been looking for property with amazing views? Do you want land for hunting, gardening, or just relaxing? If yes, this nearly 20 acre parcel might be perfect for you! There is already a flat spot with stupendous views of multiple mountain ranges. The area is full of deer, bear, coyote, turkey and more. There are no covenants or HOA so you would be able to build what you'd like. The property does get cell service. Important to note - there are physical and legal access challenges and this property currently has no utilities.  If this looks familiar, that's because it was taken off t...
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By Jeff Fisher, PUREWEST REAL ESTATE/Christies
(PureWest Real Estate)
Grizzly bears (Ursus arctos horribilis) are magnificent and iconic creatures that inhabit the Yellowstone National Park in the United States. Known for their impressive size and strength, as well as their distinctive hump of muscle on their shoulders, these bears are an integral part of the park's ecosystem.The grizzly bears of Yellowstone are among the largest and most powerful land predators in North America. Adult males, known as boars, can weigh up to 600 to 900 pounds (270 to 410 kilograms) and stand about 7 feet (2.1 meters) tall when on their hind legs. Adult females, called sows, are smaller, typically weighing between 300 to 500 pounds (140 to 230 kilograms). These bears have a lifespan of approximately 20 to 25 years in the wild.One of the defining characteristics of grizzly b...
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By Kat Palmiotti, Helping your Montana dreams take root
(406-270-3667, kat@thehousekat.com, Broker/REALTOR®)
Debe Maxwell, CRS is hosting a May 2023 Challenge entitled "Shower Power: Flaunt Your Fabulous Blooms Brought to Life by April Showers!" The goal is to share our Spring flowers. So here is the version from Kalispell Montana.First, in northwestern Montana the saying should really be "May showers bring June flowers." For example, our Spring didn't really start until the end of April. The snow finally melted in most places and instead of snow we started getting rain. And the rain didn't really come with both barrels until early May. And then it seemed like overnight everything turned green and the grass was already several inches high. That being said, the flowers are not quite lush yet. Trees and bushes have green but no colorful buds. But I was able to find some wild flowers as follows.W...
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By Kat Palmiotti, Helping your Montana dreams take root
(406-270-3667, kat@thehousekat.com, Broker/REALTOR®)
On Mother's Day 2023, we went to explore a new (to us) hiking trail in Flathead County. The destination was a small lake at the end of a 1.5 mile walk. Here's how it went. So here's what I can tell you about the hike.There were three lakes accessible from this particular trailhead. There was perhaps a half mile walk from the parking area to a place where you have to make a choice. You either go straight which is the way we went, or you make a right which will take you to another area where you'll have to make another decision on which way to go. If you had chosen to go straight, you'd go about a mile to a beautiful lake, and if you went right, you'd have two lakes to choose from (or two lakes to see!)As far as the trail goes, it was a very easy and short trail with just a few small incl...
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By Kat Palmiotti, Helping your Montana dreams take root
(406-270-3667, kat@thehousekat.com, Broker/REALTOR®)
This report covers the residential land market in Kalispell Montana as of the end of April 2023. As with last month, sales increased slightly. At the same time, available inventory also increased. The bottom line is that the residential land market remains a buyers market.  INVENTORYAs of early May 2023, there were 158 residential land parcels for sale in Kalispell which is ten more than April's inventory of 148. The majority of new land listings are relatively small lots in three developments: Shadow Mountain Estates, Sweetgrass Ranch and Cedar Meadows. Five or more acresOf the land currently for sale only 23% of the listings include five or more acres. This percentage has been declining (and did so last month as well), possibly due to the continued growth in subdivision parcels as Kal...
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By Kat Palmiotti, Helping your Montana dreams take root
(406-270-3667, kat@thehousekat.com, Broker/REALTOR®)
Following is an overview of the Kalispell Montana real estate results for the residential market as of April 2023. This report covers the entire residential market, including single family homes, townhouses, condominiums and manufactured homes.  The Kalispell residential market remains a seller's market. In April, sales remained relatively flat, inventory and homes under contract increased and median prices decreased. The Kalispell market is still experiencing a seller's market. Sales VolumeIn the month of April 2023, there were 59 residential sales in Kalispell which is 41% less than the same time last year and one more than last month. The Spring market is lagging last year. With more inventory perhaps next month will pick back up.   InventoryIn terms of available homes on the market,...
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By Jeff Fisher, PUREWEST REAL ESTATE/Christies
(PureWest Real Estate)
Whitefish Lake is a stunning natural feature located in the town of Whitefish, Montana, USA. It is a glacial lake and is one of the most beautiful and pristine bodies of water in the region, drawing visitors from all over the world who come to enjoy its crystal-clear waters and spectacular scenery. The lake covers an area of 3,315 acres and has a maximum depth of 233 feet.The town of Whitefish is located in the Flathead Valley, surrounded by the stunning Rocky Mountains. The lake is situated at the foot of Big Mountain, a popular skiing destination in the winter. The lake is easily accessible from the town, and there are several parks and beaches along its shores that provide visitors with ample opportunities for recreation and relaxation.One of the most popular parks on Whitefish Lake ...
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By Kat Palmiotti, Helping your Montana dreams take root
(406-270-3667, kat@thehousekat.com, Broker/REALTOR®)
Have you been to Bigfork Antiques and More in Bigfork Montana?If not, here's what you're missing!Bigfork Antiques is located at 100 Hill Road in Bigfork, off of route 83. You can't miss it! It's the big red barn located near Echo Lake Cafe. This antique store has approximately 7,000 square feet dedicated to all kinds of antiques as well as some newer items. If you are looking for the perfect item to complement your landscape such as a  huge metal moose, life size bronze sculptures, outdoor furniture, garden decorations, wagon wheels and more, this is the place for you.If you are looking for that a specific furniture item, for example, a map or music sheet cabinet, a marble topped dresser, unique end tables or chairs, bed frames or perhaps a roll top desk, you've got to stop by.Or if you...
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By Kat Palmiotti, Helping your Montana dreams take root
(406-270-3667, kat@thehousekat.com, Broker/REALTOR®)
I recently found an online directory of Kalispell City ordinances and thought it’d be intriguing to see what some of the ordinances of the past were. If I can find enough interesting material, I hope to share at least one ordinance from each year. My last post covered 1913, and I'm going to skip 1914 which mostly dealt with establishing water meters and a Water Works department. This post pertains to 1915, specifically relating to an ordinance that established licensing requirements for various professions.Ordinance #316 was approved on March 1, 1915. This ordinance was put in place to regulate and license certain industries and occupations, and to provide penalties if licenses were not taken care of as required. Specifically, this ordinance required that the following license fees woul...
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By Jeff Fisher, PUREWEST REAL ESTATE/Christies
(PureWest Real Estate)
Bozeman, Montana is a charming city located in the southwestern region of the state. Spring in Bozeman typically begins in late March and extends through May, bringing with it warmer temperatures and the promise of new beginnings.As the snow begins to melt away, the surrounding mountains come to life with lush greenery and blooming wildflowers. The crisp mountain air is filled with the sweet scent of budding trees and fresh grass. The scenery in Bozeman during spring is simply breathtaking, with snow-capped mountains providing a stunning backdrop to the colorful landscape.During spring, Bozeman experiences a transition in weather from winter to summer, with temperatures ranging from the mid-40s to the low 60s Fahrenheit. However, it is not uncommon for temperatures to dip below freezing...
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By Kat Palmiotti, Helping your Montana dreams take root
(406-270-3667, kat@thehousekat.com, Broker/REALTOR®)
I recently found an online directory of Kalispell City ordinances and thought it’d be intriguing to see what some of the ordinances of the past were. If I can find enough interesting material, I hope to share at least one ordinance from each year. This week's post will actually cover two 1913 Kalispell ordinances, both dealing with pool halls.Ordinance #279 and 280 were both approved on April 7, 1913. Together they stated that any business which has a pool table, billiard table or bagatelle table must be closed between 12 midnight and 6am. In addition, the same businesses were prohibited from using blinds, screens, curtains, shutters, painted or colored glass in, upon, or in front of the business. Anyone defying the first order about the hours of operation would be fined between $5-50 a...
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By Jeff Fisher, PUREWEST REAL ESTATE/Christies
(PureWest Real Estate)
Glacier National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Montana, USA, and it has a rich history that spans over a century. The park is home to one of the most iconic train stations in the country, which has undergone several transformations over the years.Before the 20th century, the area where the train station stands was a remote wilderness, largely inaccessible to most visitors. However, with the expansion of the Great Northern Railway, the park became more accessible to the public. In 1901, the railway built a wooden depot at the foot of the mountains, which served as the park's first train station. This depot was later replaced by a more substantial building made of stone in 1913.During the early 1900s, the train station was the gateway to Glacier National Park, an...
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By Jeff Fisher, PUREWEST REAL ESTATE/Christies
(PureWest Real Estate)
Rexford is a small town located in the northwest corner of Montana, United States. It is situated in Lincoln County, on the banks of the Kootenai River, a few miles north of the Montana-Idaho border. The town has a population of just under 150 people and covers an area of approximately 0.4 square miles.One of the main attractions of Rexford is Lake Koocanusa, a large reservoir created by the construction of the Libby Dam on the Kootenai River. The lake stretches for over 90 miles from the dam to the Canadian border and covers an area of more than 30,000 acres. The name "Koocanusa" comes from a combination of the first three letters from Kootenai, Canada, and USA.Lake Koocanusa is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of recreational opportunities such as boat...
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By Jeff Fisher, PUREWEST REAL ESTATE/Christies
(PureWest Real Estate)
Whitefish ski resort, known as Big Mountain, is a premier ski destination located in Whitefish, Montana. The resort covers over 3,000 acres of skiable terrain, with a vertical drop of 2,353 feet and 105 marked trails.Whitefish is renowned for its stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including Glacier National Park, Flathead Valley, and the Canadian Rockies. Its ski terrain ranges from beginner-friendly groomers to expert-level steep chutes, bowls, and tree runs. With an average annual snowfall of 300 inches, the resort offers skiing and snowboarding from late November to early April.The resort also boasts a thriving mountain village with an array of lodging options, restaurants, and shops. The village's rustic alpine architecture and charming small-town feel provide a ...
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By Kat Palmiotti, Helping your Montana dreams take root
(406-270-3667, kat@thehousekat.com, Broker/REALTOR®)
Following is an overview of the Kalispell Montana real estate results for the residential market as of March 2023. This report covers the entire residential market, including single family homes, townhouses, condominiums and manufactured homes.The Kalispell residential market remains a seller's market. In March, sales, homes under contract and median prices increased while inventory decreased. While the Kalispell market appeared to be moving towards a balanced market, data suggests it is now moving back towards a stronger seller's market. Sales VolumeIn the month of March 2023, there were 58 residential sales in Kalispell which is 7% more than the same time last year and 26% more than last month. The increase in sales could signal an early Spring season and/or could be caused by more co...
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By Kat Palmiotti, Helping your Montana dreams take root
(406-270-3667, kat@thehousekat.com, Broker/REALTOR®)
This report covers the residential land market in Kalispell Montana as of the end of March 2023. Sales increased slightly while available inventory has declined again. The residential land market in Kalispell has slowed from the robustness of the last few years. Additionally, unlike the residential home market which is still a sellers market, Kalispell land is currently experiencing a buyers market.   INVENTORYAs of early April 2023, there were 148 residential land parcels for sale in Kalispell which is slightly less than March's inventory of 153. This is the fifth drop in monthly inventory in a row but inventory remains much higher than last year at the same time.Five or more acresOf the land currently for sale only 25% of the listings include five or more acres. This percentage has be...
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By Jeff Fisher, PUREWEST REAL ESTATE/Christies
(PureWest Real Estate)
Livingston, Montana, located in the heart of the Yellowstone River Valley, is a picturesque and charming town that offers visitors a unique experience. Known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cultural scene, Livingston is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for an authentic Montana experience.One of the town's biggest attractions is its location. Situated just north of Yellowstone National Park, Livingston is surrounded by some of the most beautiful scenery in the world. From the towering peaks of the Absaroka Mountains to the rolling hills of the Paradise Valley, the natural beauty of this area is simply breathtaking. Visitors can explore the wilderness by hiking, fishing, hunting, or horseback riding, or they can simply take in the views from one of the ma...
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By Jeff Fisher, PUREWEST REAL ESTATE/Christies
(PureWest Real Estate)
Yellowstone National Park is home to one of the last remaining large, wild herds of bison in North America. These iconic animals are an important symbol of the American West and a testament to the resilience of wildlife in the face of human encroachment.Yellowstone bison are the largest land mammals in North America and can weigh up to 2,000 pounds. They are herbivores and graze on grasses, sedges, and other vegetation. Bison play an important role in shaping the landscape of Yellowstone by helping to maintain the health and diversity of the park's grasslands.Despite their significance, Yellowstone bison have faced numerous challenges over the years. In the late 1800s, bison were hunted nearly to extinction in North America, with only a few hundred animals remaining. Today, the Yellowst...
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By Jeff Fisher, PUREWEST REAL ESTATE/Christies
(PureWest Real Estate)
Yellowstone National Park is home to one of the last remaining large, wild herds of bison in North America. These iconic animals are an important symbol of the American West and a testament to the resilience of wildlife in the face of human encroachment.Yellowstone bison are the largest land mammals in North America and can weigh up to 2,000 pounds. They are herbivores and graze on grasses, sedges, and other vegetation. Bison play an important role in shaping the landscape of Yellowstone by helping to maintain the health and diversity of the park's grasslands.Despite their significance, Yellowstone bison have faced numerous challenges over the years. In the late 1800s, bison were hunted nearly to extinction in North America, with only a few hundred animals remaining. Today, the Yellowst...
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By Patricia Feager, MBA, CRS, GRI,MRP, Selling Homes Changing Lives
(DFW FINE PROPERTIES)
Congratulations Kat Palmiotti for successfully completing three entries for the March to a Solution|ActiveRain March 2023 Challenge. May I have the pleasure of presenting you with a virtual handful of GOLD for completing the ActiveRain March 2023 Challenge? Your entries will be very useful to new agents, other agents, sellers, and buyers. Kat, there must be magic and gold sprinkled in and around Glacier National Park  and the City of Kalispell, Montana because you've got the magic! You have the sparkle!  Any clients of yours will soon realize you are a treasure. Your achievements as Broker/REALTOR® are phenomenal. From your three stories on 1) Inspections, 2) Assumptions, and 3) Decisions, you share the lessons you learned from each as a result of your experiences. The key is to stay fo...
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