Where there is great love, there are always miracles.
-Willa Cather
Dear Friends, Family & Clients,
February always carries its own rhythm – a little quieter, a little shorter, and somehow still full.
This year feels different. It’s been a lean snow season, the sunshine has been generous, and the light is stretching just a bit longer each evening. It’s a reminder that momentum doesn’t always look the way we expect it to. Sometimes it’s subtle. Sometimes it’s simply steady. But it’s there.
And for such a small month, February holds a lot. Groundhog Day, Lunar New Year, Black History Month, Valentine’s Day, Presidents’ Day weekend – all moments to pause, reflect, celebrate, or gather. We’ve included a few thoughtful notes and articles below if you’d like to lean into any of them, along with a delicious recipe and a few date-night ideas if love is on your calendar.
Before I move on, I also want to share something personal. I was recently recognized in the Top 2% (Top 200) of 4,208 agents in the BSCMLS & MRMLS by Montana Real Producers. That recognition isn’t about a single year or a single number – it reflects years of consistency, discipline, and most importantly, the trust you place in me. I don’t take that lightly. I’m incredibly grateful.
Locally, prices are holding steady and inventory has been building a bit – which honestly feels healthy. Homes are taking a little longer in some areas, which simply means strategy matters more than ever. Rates are hovering near 6% and, despite the headlines, they’ve been relatively calm. Buyers are re-engaging thoughtfully, sellers are adjusting expectations, and overall things feel measured instead of frantic -which is when smart decisions happen.
I encourage you to check in on your property tax status as well- (linked below). It’s one of those small details that can quietly make a meaningful difference.
There is a lot of information out there designed to stir emotion, but rarely does it tell the full story. Every home, every buyer, and every goal is different. What matters most is what’s happening locally and how it aligns with your plans. If real estate is part of your goals this year – whether that’s making a move, buying your first home, repositioning an investment, or simply getting clearer on your options – I would truly love to help. Sometimes the most helpful step is just a conversation and I’m always here to support you with professionalism, transparency, and a steady hand. My focus is making sure you navigate this process with confidence and even a little excitement along the way.
Here’s to longer light, steady momentum, and thoughtful moves.
Warmly,
Denise
PROPERTY TAX DEADLINE IS MARCH 1st
Montana residential property owners may be eligible for significant property tax relief through the Homestead Reduced Tax Rate enacted by the legislature in 2025.
Homeowners who claimed a property tax rebate in 2025 are automatically enrolled to receive the homestead reduced tax rate for 2026.
All other principal-residence property and long- term rental owners must enroll to qualify. The enrollment period closes on March 1, 2026.
Here are the numbers for this month’s residential market update in Flathead and Lake Counties.
While median prices remain strong in several areas, average days on market remind us that strategy, pricing, and presentation are critical in today’s environment.
Markets are not one-size-fits-all – and neither is your real estate plan. If you’d like a personalized analysis of your neighborhood or property value, I would be happy to prepare one for you.
As always, I’m here to help you make informed, confident decisions.
LOCAL READS
The $9.75 Breakfast at this Cozy Cafe
In Montana is Better Than Any
Chain Restaurant
Nestled among towering pines in the picturesque town of Bigfork, Montana, sits a wooden treasure that proves the best things in life don’t need corporate backing or a marketing team.
Echo Lake Cafe offers a breakfast experience that not only outshines any chain restaurant but does so at a price that feels like a throwback to simpler times.
James Beard Awards Reveal 2026 Semifinalists for Standout US
Chefs and Restaurants
- Outstanding Restaurateur: Brett Evje and Michael Ochsner – PLONK Bozeman, J.W. Heist Steakhouse, and PLONK Missoula, Bozeman, MT
- Outstanding Restaurant: Blackbird Kitchen – Blackbird Kitchen, Bozeman, MT
- Outstanding Bakery: Wild Crumb – Wild Crumb, Bozeman, MT
- Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program: One Legged Magpie – One Legged Magpie, Red Lodge, MT
- Best Chef:
- Brandon Cunningham – Ember, Hamilton, MT
- Earl James Reynolds – Herb and Omni, Whitefish, MT
- Jarrett Wrisley – Shan, Bozeman, MT
6 Destinations You Should Explore By Car
Whether you’re headed to a destination with no public transportation or you just like to travel off-the-beaten-path, renting a car can be a necessary travel arrangement.
Many of America’s 50 states are ripe for a road trip, but there’s something about Montana that makes it necessary to rent a car. This state is filled with towering mountains, vast prairies and tons of backroads leading to gorgeous viewpoints. In other words, you need a car to get around. Bigger cities like Billings, Bozeman and Missoula have public transportation, but the key to visiting Montana is getting out of town and into nature. A car is necessary for visiting both Yellowstone National Park and Glacier National Park, both beautiful and vastly different public lands.
Date NIght at Florabella
Great Post Valentine’s Date Night
We are so excited to be partnering with the Roxy for all your date night needs! Stop by Florabella to purchase a $40 Date Night Card to use on any Monday.
The Date Night Card includes a pizza, 2 house wines, and 2 movie tickets to the Roxy Theatre, a $60 value for only $40!
Pizza and wine only available at Florabella on Mondays, Roxy Theatre movie tickets may be redeemed any time at the Roxy Box Office.
15 Most Beautiful Lakes in the US
(And We Have 2 of Them In Montana)
1) Flathead Lake is the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi, with crystalline waters cradled in the Flathead Valley by the Mission Mountains to the east and the Salish Mountains to the west. The lake is blessed with an unusually mild climate for an area so far north and inland, allowing for surrounding fruit orchards and vineyards on its east side. There’s even a Flathead Lake Monster, which by some accounts, may have a close cousin living in Loch Ness. It’s more likely, however, that you’ll spy wild horses roaming the state park.
2) Ten miles long, nearly 500 feet deep, and flanked by dramatic peaks, Lake McDonald is the crown jewel of Glacier National Park. Formed by ancient glaciers, the glassy waters mirror the mountains – and if you look closely from the shore, you can see the lake’s famously colorful, smooth pebbles under the surface. Visitors can stay right on its banks at Lake McDonald Lodge, one of Glacier’s best hotels. From there, it’s easy to launch a kayak or hop on the Going-to-the-Sun Road, which winds skyward just east of the shoreline.
10 Overlooked Mountain Towns in the US Worth Exploring Whitefish is often overshadowed by nearby Glacier National Park, but it offers an incredible mountain experience. The town sits at the base of the Whitefish Mountain Resort, providing skiing, snowboarding, and summer hiking. Its downtown has boutiques, restaurants, and breweries, maintaining a friendly, laid-back vibe. Outdoor adventures abound, including mountain biking, rafting, and fishing. The town hosts cultural events, farmers’ markets, and summer concerts, adding charm to mountain adventures. Lake McDonald and the surrounding trails provide peaceful retreats for nature lovers. Lodging options range from lodges to vacation rentals with mountain views. Wildlife sightings are frequent, including elk, deer, and bald eagles. Whitefish is a haven for both adventure seekers and those craving relaxation. |
NEWSY READS
St. Valentine Wasn’t Just One Person
In Honor of Groundhog’s Day – Here is Gardner Jeff Permar Coexisting with the Groundhog named “Chunk”
In Honor of Black History Month:
Maya Angelou Was One of San Francisco’s
First Black Female Streetcar Conductors
Tomas Edison Proposed to His
Second Wife in Morse Code
Where Americans Moved in 2025
(Montana in the top 5 for Migration)
Florida Had the Most Foreclosures in the U.S. in 2025 – Montana Near the
Bottom of Foreclosures
In Honor of President’s Day:
18 Surprisingly Hilarious Quotes
from US Presidents
Quotes For Every Decade of Your Life
Data Shows 2026 Starting With Sales Momentum at Near 3-Year High
The new suburban reality: McMansions quietly turning into empty neighborhoods
“The Corgi Took That Pretty Well”
Interview with a Corgi – @Oficialdogpack
11 Things Dogs Do Differently
When They Feel Deeply Loved
ACTIVE LISTINGS
TESTIMONIAL
Denise didn’t just help us buy a house – she helped us find a home. She is an amazing real estate agent and I truly cannot recommend her highly enough. She went above and beyond at every turn, took our business personally, and handled everything with professionalism and heart.
Denise was there for us at every step – always available, quick to respond, kind, caring, efficient and increadibly knowledgeable. If you are in the market to buy or sell a home, Denise Lang is the one you want by your side!
-Maureen S.
ON MARKET
106 Golden Bear Drive, Bigfork
MLS #30056536 $829,900
CLOSED
Business Opportunity
MLS #30059714 $150,000
JUST LISTED
1673 Whitefish Hills Drive, Whitefish
MLS #30064158 $1,495,000
CLOSED
618 Spruce Place, Bigfork
MLS #30058383
CLOSED
255 Windsor Court, Bigfork
MLS #30052084
DIGITAL RESOURCES
2025 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 Mid-Year Luxury OutlookSM delves into the pivotal, forward-looking issues shaping luxury residential property markets around the world.
CERI'S CORNER
-Small Dog. Big Energy. Obviously.
Hello friends, it’s Ceri here.
I’ve been hearing whispers lately about “very intelligent dog breeds”…or at least Mom put it in the newsletter this month -(12 Dog Breeds That Are Actually Smarter Than Most Humans)
Oh? Is this new information?
Listen. I don’t need an article to validate what I already demonstrate daily. The way I monitor the perimeter. The way I reorganize the household schedule. The way I strategically position myself exactly where the sunbeam lands at 2:17 p.m. That’s not luck. That’s leadership.
Some might say I’m an “independent thinker.” And by some, I mean everyone who has ever given me a command that I’ve thoughtfully considered before responding.
I’m not ignoring you. I’m assessing the situation. It’s called discernment.
But intelligence aside, (I got sidetracked and had to set the record straight), there’s something even more important this month… February has everyone talking about romance and roses – and while I personally prefer treats and tactical cuddling – it did get me thinking about love.
Now, once you’ve seen the images Mom chose this month, you’ll understand something important.
In mine, there’s a lion looking back… Obviously.
Accurate. Regal. Fierce but compact.
My big brother Odin, however, seems to identify with the baby elephant – all snuggled in.
Which honestly tracks. Large. Gentle. Soft-hearted. Slightly dramatic about comfort levels.
And here’s the thing – both can be true.
Love is loyalty.
Love is courage.
Love is showing up with your whole lion hearted self – even if you only stand 10 inches tall.
…But love is also being the safe, steady presence who takes up half the couch and
snores like distant thunder. (Odin.)
Love is guarding your hoomans like they are the most important beings on the planet (they are).
Love is sitting close enough on the couch that no one forgets you’re there.
Love is forgiving quickly… especially if snacks are involved.
So this Valentine’s Day, be bold. Be brave. Wiggle your adorable backside with confidence. Take up space. Protect your pack. Choose the sunny spot. And if you catch your reflection somewhere… remember who’s looking back.
Whether you’re lion-hearted… or a snuggle-loving big baby.
Small does not mean subtle!
With great affection and even greater authority,
Ceri 💘
DENISE'S COOKING CORNER
-Bittersweet Chocolate Cake
DENISE'S READING CORNER
-Theo of Golden
NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER
“[A] word-of-mouth smash hit.” —The New York Times
One spring morning, a stranger arrives in the small southern city of Golden. No one knows where he has come from…or why…
His name is Theo. And he asks a lot more questions than he answers.
Theo visits the local coffeehouse, where ninety-two pencil portraits hang on the walls, portraits of the people of Golden done by a local artist. He begins purchasing them, one at a time, and putting them back in the hands of their “rightful owners.” With each exchange, a story is told, a friendship born, and a life altered.
A story of giving and receiving, of seeing and being seen, Theo of Golden is a beautifully crafted novel about the power of creative generosity, the importance of wonder to a purposeful life, and the invisible threads of kindness that bind us to one another.