People will forget what you said…but people will never forget how you made them feel.
Maya Angelou
Dear Friends,
As we start to bid farewell to summer (even though the Flathead skies are still more sweater than swimsuit), I’m reminded that August is for action. While there’s a quiet shift in the air, with cooler mornings and the hint of fall just ahead, now is actually one of the best times to dive into real estate. Whether you’re dreaming of your next home or thinking about listing your current one, the window of opportunity is wide open – and I’m here to help you make the most of it.
The market continues to evolve. We’re seeing more inventory, giving buyers a little more breathing room to think, ponder, and ultimately make confident, bold moves. Homes are sitting on the market slightly longer, yes – but competitively priced properties are moving, often after one strategic price reduction. For sellers, that means it’s time to get creative: an interest rate buy-down, offering owner financing or coming to market at a strong, competitive list price can make a major difference in how fast (and how well) your property sells.
For buyers, this is not the season to hesitate. Dream homes are out there – let’s talk offers. A bold, well-crafted one can open doors, and in this market, everything’s negotiable until it’s not. If a seller says no? We revise, re-strategize, and keep going. But if they say yes… you’ve just landed a win.
Through it all, I want to reassure you: you’re not in this alone. My priority is to make sure you feel supported, informed, and confident through every step of your real estate journey. With a deep understanding of the local market and a collaborative approach, I’m here to help you navigate it all – with transparency, expertise, and a friendly touch.
And in the middle of this busy season, Bigfork once again reminded us why we love where we live. The Festival of the Arts brought crowds, creativity, and community spirit – and not even the rain could dampen the excitement. Local artists, performers, and small businesses brought their A-game, and it was a joy to see Bigfork shine.
Speaking of community pride – huge congratulations to my son Drake and his amazing team at Saketome Sushi, who were just named Best Sushi in the Flathead Valley and in Missoula! 🎉 (for Best Fish & Seafood Restaurant, they also took 1st in Missoula and 2nd in the Flathead as well as 3rd in the Flathead for Best Asian Restaurant.) Saketome is my happy place, and I’m beyond proud of the heart and hustle they pour into every service.
So, yes – the market may feel a little sluggish, and the weather might be cooler than expected – but opportunity is still everywhere. If you’re wondering what your next move looks like, let’s talk. Whether you’re ready to go or just want to understand your current market position, my door’s open.
Let’s meet up and chart the right path forward for you.
Warmly,
Denise
P.S. For my Montana locals: A quick reminder that the property tax assessment appeal deadline is fast approaching! If you’re considering appealing your 2025 property value assessment, now is the time to take action. (We’ll include helpful links and resources further down.)
Our July Market Snapshot:
Inventory Grows, Buyer Activity Holds Steady, and Pricing Adjusts Across Flathead & Lake Counties
LOCAL READS
RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY TAX ASSESSMENTS
Take Action if Needed
By now, you should have received your new property assessment from the State of Montana. It’s part of a statewide effort to realign property values—but it’s also something you don’t want to ignore.
First things first: take a close look at your assessment. If the numbers feel off or don’t reflect your property’s true value, you have the right to protest – but there’s a 30-day deadline from the date on your notice, so timing matters!
To file a protest, head to: Flathead County Montana – Property Taxes
Scroll to the “Protest Form” and click the green download button.
You’ll need to include comparable property sales to support your case, and if you need help finding those, just reach out – I’d be happy to assist.
Also important: these values will influence your future tax bills, even though the new mill levy hasn’t been finalized yet. So this is your one window to make sure everything is accurate before those numbers get locked in.
For Montana residents – don’t forget the new Homestead Form! You can find Instructions here:
Declarations of Homestead Instructions
Filing this helps qualify you for the resident tax rate and possible refunds.
You’re not in this alone. Tax talk can be tricky, but I’m here to help you navigate it all – one step at a time. Let’s make sure your investment is protected and your assessment reflects reality.
Here are a couple more articles that may help bring clarity as well:
How Montana’s New Second-Home Tax Could Shift Your Property Tax Bill
The Most Charming
Small Towns in America
Explore the hidden gems of each state: towns with quaint shops and restaurants, fascinating histories, fun experiences and natural beauty…and Whitefish made the list!
National Geographic once named Whitefish, Montana, one of the “Top 25 Ski Towns in the World,” but this small town on the shores of Whitefish Lake offers even more to do and see. Visitors come to snowboard, hike, boat, bike and enjoy life, professional theater and fine dining. For nature lovers, Glacier National Park is a short drive away.
10 American Lakes You Need to Explore
The U.S. is packed with pristine lakes that offer opportunities to watch the sunset over alpine peaks, paddle along glassy waters, and kick off your flip-flops and go for a dip.
So, if you’re hoping to kickstart your next adventure, look no further. We’ve put together a list of 10 stunning U.S. lakes worthy of at least a weekend away.
Lake McDonald, the glistening crown-jewel of Montana’s beloved Glacier National Park, is one of them.
This Natural Freshwater Lake is The Largest in The Western US And is One Of The World’s Cleanest
Whether you’re visiting in the summer or winter, northwestern Montana will inspire you with its scenic beauty as far as the eye can see. The Treasure State embodies the picturesque American West as an outdoor dreamland full of majestic mountains and scenic beauty stretching past the horizon. As it is locally known, Big Sky Country is home to the world-famous Glacier National Park and a small sliver of Yellowstone National Park, as well as a third, aquatic treasure: Flathead Lake.
New Resort in Lakeside Faces
Backlash From Locals
They’ve already taken Paradise Valley and turned it into BozeAngleles. Due to the wealthy discovering Montana, locals can not afford to live and work in the towns they grew up in. The towns in the valley themselves are becoming almost unrecognizable.
What Is Discovery Land Company
Proposing In Lakeside?
- 359 single family homes in a subdivision on 1,700 acres on US Highway 93, Lakeside
- Planning on amenity lots including restaurants, clubhouses, spa, retail stores and more
- They plan to develop 20% of the acreage and leave 80% open
5 Of The Most Remote Places in The US
Montana is another state with lots of space. The most remote place in Big Sky Country is the Bob Marshall Wilderness. Comprised of an astonishing 1.5 million acres, Bob Marshall Wilderness contains the kind of stunning natural beauty most people envision when contemplating a wild escape.
6 National Parks To See Before
They Close For The Season
Known for its serene lakes, jagged mountains, and alpine meadows, Glacier National Park is home to endless outdoor activities that are enjoyed well into fall. Here, you’ll find the grand Lake McDonald Valley, which was carved out by massive glaciers thousands of years ago. Today, its crystal clear, reflective waters are a photographer’s dream.
A Food Lovers Road Trip Across Montana’s Best Eateries Awaits
The best part about being a food lover in Montana is that you can find excellent meals in just about every city, at every price point. You don’t need to break the bank to enjoy great food, but you can also go as high-end as you want.
Montana’s most popular restaurants have very loyal followings. You can tell from the dozens of 5 star reviews and heartfelt comments. Each loved restaurant has a story to tell.
Guy Fieri Loves This Montana Gem
And So Will You
The folks at Roost know what they’re doing with a heritage that goes back decades and starts in Tennessee. All you have to do is take a look at the menu, and you know it’s the real deal. Menu items include: fried chicken, collard greens, cheesy grits, okra, mac and cheese, cole slaw, and others.
Oh, and did I mention the chicken and waffles? So, how good is Roost?
“I would put them in the Top 5 of the best
fried chicken I’ve ever had, and that includes my Grandma Wolf’s”.
I’m Honored to Be a Finalist!
VOTE FOR ME!!
I can’t tell you how honored I am to have my name in the finalist lineup for the very first Montana Real Producers Awards Night! To be recognized as a finalist for the Industry Icon Award is truly humbling.
This nomination means so much because it comes from the peers and community I respect deeply. The words from MT Real Producers say it best: “You’ve inspired your peers and made an undeniable impact on real estate in our state—and now we get to celebrate that live.”
And now – final voting is officially open!
This is the last step before the winners are announced, and I’d be so grateful for your vote. It only takes a minute, and you can share the link with friends and family, too!
Final Voting Form: Click here to vote
While you’re there, please join me in congratulating my amazing Glacier Sotheby’s colleagues who are also finalists:
- Denise Lang – Industry Icon Award
- Crystal Ault – Leader of the Year Award
- Kelly Whitmoyer – Feature of the Year Award
- Cindi Hayne – Cover of the Year Award
Your support means the world—thank you for helping me celebrate this special moment!
NEWSY READS
Mortgage Rates Drop to Four-Month Low as Pressure Mounts on Fed
10 Books That Will Change Your Perspective on Life
The “Dog Days of Summer” Are Named After The Star Sirius
Quick! Get Outside! Time In Nature Can Transform Your Health
The NFL Preseason Starts Today Here’s The Full Schedule
Six Tips to Prepare Your Home For Sale Quickly
Luxury Lens: Who Are The Most Motivated Homebuyers Right Now?
Fall Promises to Be a Great Time to Buy, Says Zillow
How “Cereal Milk” Became a Flavor
DIGITAL RESOURCES
2024 LIVE Montana is now on the stands! The link to the digital version is included below and you can pick up a physical copy at your office.
Our Digital Listing Catalogue is also a great option. Bookmark the link above so you can keep on eye on what’s been recently listed and sold
Year in Review:
It’s the Glacier Sotheby’s 2024 Annual Market Report.
This is a great place to see how far the reach is and what I can do for you through the Sotheby’s platform!
The 2025 Sotheby’s Luxury Outlook is out as well – here is a link to preview the newest issue
ACTIVE LISTINGS
TESTIMONIAL
It is both an honor and privilege for me to recommend Montana real estate agent, Denise Lang, for your home buying and selling needs. She is absolutely outstanding!
To say that my house was “not an easy sale” would be a huge understatement. It was exceedingly difficult with roadblocks around each and every corner. Denise traversed around and through each and every one, using her years of experience and vast knowledge of the properties in the Bigfork area and beyond.
She was especially helpful about answering the many questions I had about various problems with my house. Because of her own expertise and her valuable network of experts, she answered each question thoroughly, patiently, and always with the utmost professionalism.
Without hesitation, I highly recommend Denise Lang for your real estate needs. She is truly the best!
– Lilian S
JUST LISTED
618 Spruce Place, Bigfork
MLS #30054350 $740,000
JUST LISTED
280 Shady Lane, Bigfork
MLS #30053325 $1,425,000
JUST LISTED
1000 MT Highway 82, Somers
MLS #30053780 $1,895,000
ON MARKET
73 River’s End, Bigfork
MLS #30053960 $4,250,000
ON MARKET
12862 Rainbow Drive, Bigfork
MLS #30053418 $2,750,000
JUST LISTED
298 Kuzmic Lane, Coram
MLS #30053479 $747,775
PRICE IMPROVED
D-36 Slip, Eagle Bend Yacht Harbor
MLS #30053274 $325,000
ON MARKET
33731 Westview Drive, Bigfork
MLS #30052154 $1,000,000
PRICE IMPROVED
12284 Cygnet Way, Bigfork
MLS #30049763 $1,975,000
PRICE IMPROVED
22 Hills Lookout Court, Whitefish
MLS #30041313 $2,149,000
PRICE IMPROVED
88/94 Parkway Avenue, Unit #B
& Boat Slip #6, Bigfork
MLS #30046246 $1,097,775
ON MARKET
285/280 Shady Lane, Bigfork
MLS #30046169 $5,498,750
PRICE IMPROVED
1215/1225 Sunnyside Drive, Kalispell
MLS #30043446 $745,000
ON MARKET – COMMERCIAL
5095 Highway 2 W, Columbia Falls
MLS #30031804 $595,000
PRICE IMPROVED
417 8th Ave W, Kalispell
MLS #30043792 $549,775
PRICE IMPROVED
NHN Hilltop Terrace, Bigfork
MLS #30044262 $198,500
ON MARKET
443 Osborn Ave #206, Bigfork
MLS #30050740 $898,760
UNDER CONTRACT
255 Windsor Court, Bigfork
MLS #30052084 $1,325,000
CERI'S CORNER
-The View From Just Above The Floor
Hello again, hoomans and fellow tail-waggers!
It’s your favorite low-rider, Ceri, reporting live from the shady spot under the kitchen table – prime real estate, where all the best crumbs land. As we wag our way into August, I’d like to share a few doggone delightful tidbits that have me paws-itively buzzing with excitement (and not just from sneaking cereal milk again – don’t judge).
Let’s start with something truly magical: Did you know that us Corgis were originally believed to be fairy steeds in Welsh folklore? Yes, really. Legend says the fair folk used us to pull their chariots and carry warriors into battle. That explains my impeccable sense of direction, noble posture, and ability to materialize instantly at the sound of a snack bag crinkle. I was basically the original Uber – if Uber wore a fuzzy double coat and had a royal strut.
Speaking of royalty, it’s time we talk about our actual throne-worthy heritage. You may know Queen Elizabeth II adored Corgis (I mean, duh), but did you know she owned more than 30 in her lifetime? She received her first Corgi, Susan, as a gift for her 18th birthday – and the rest is royal (and adorable) history. Every Corgi since has basically been nobility. And yet here I am, still waiting for someone to carry me to breakfast like the dignitary I am.
Oh! And get this: During World War II, a brave little Corgi named Rufus worked as a messenger dog. So next time you think we’re all fluff and sass, remember – some of us have served our country and still made it home in time for belly rubs.
Speaking of breakfast – can we talk about cereal milk? The sweet, swirly elixir left at the bottom of your bowl? Odin and I are obsessed. There’s a whole article in this newsletter (above) that proves it’s a legit treat for hoomans… so naturally, we’ve filed a formal petition for equal bowl rights. Milk bones are fine, but cereal milk is basically the truffle oil of the dog world.
Now mark your calendars: National Dog Day is coming up on August 26th! This glorious day was created to celebrate pups like me and encourage adoption, which is truly the best way to meet your new best friend. This article we linked has everything you need to know – dog jobs, famous movie pups, and even a nod to working dogs who sniff out danger and lost luggage (I would love that job if it came with a uniform and snacks).
Last but not least, do yourself a favor and check out this New Yorker gem on How My Dog Transforms Throughout the Day. It’s a perfect play-by-play of my life: majestic sunrise philosopher, noon nap burrito, and then full chaos goblin by dusk. It’s me. I’m the goblin…the royal gobblin’ 😁
So whether you’re royalty, legendary, or just really into cereal milk – August is for celebrating! Stay cool, nap often, and remember: you’re never too old or too small to make a big splash.
See you in the shade – with wags and wisdom,
Ceri
Professional Corgi. Amateur Historian. Retired Fairy Uber. 🐾
DENISE'S COOKING CORNER
- Chicken Tender Fajitas
DENISE'S READING CORNER
-Desert Solitaire
Hailed by The New York Times as “a passionately felt, deeply poetic book,” the moving autobiographical work of Edward Abbey, considered the Thoreau of the American West, and his passion for the southwestern wilderness.
Desert Solitaire is a collection of vignettes about life in the wilderness and the nature of the desert itself by park ranger and conservationist, Edward Abbey. The book details the unique adventures and conflicts the author faces, from dealing with the damage caused by development of the land or excessive tourism, to discovering a dead body. However Desert Solitaire is not just a collection of one man’s stories, the book is also a philosophical memoir, full of Abbey’s reflections on the desert as a paradox, at once beautiful and liberating, but also isolating and cruel. Often compared to Thoreau’s Walden, Desert Solitaire is a powerful discussion of life’s mysteries set against the stirring backdrop of the American southwestern wilderness.