Building In The Time Of Covid By Mary Wallace - Photos by Amanda Wilson Photography
One industry that barely missed a beat during this roller coaster year that is 2020, is the local building industry. "Our builders and members are BUSY!" says Jessie Walthers, Executive Director of the Flathead Building Association. Early in 2019, Association contractors were riding the wave of the best ongoing construction boom since the Spring of 2007. And then, in March, in characteristic 2020 style, along came Covid-19.
Uncertainty in the pandemic's early days caused many scheduled building projects to come to a sudden temporary halt. "Homeowners were understandably nervous," said George & Lucille Eisenhart, of Eisenhart Builders, "Where was this pandemic
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thing going to go?" The Eisenhart's were beginning to think that they might want to dust off some plans to build a spec house instead. As suddenly as it all halted in March, Montana's borders re-opened in June, and things turned on a dime. The interest in building was back on schedule - albeit much bigger than before.
Realtor and Interior Stylist Rhonda Michaels, of Dwell Home Design, LLC, agrees. Michaels, who is also a realtor at Properties Northwest, said the local real estate market experienced a similar surge in activity. People were realizing that they could work remotely from anywhere, and Montana was suddenly one of the most popular places to move to. She does virtual video tours and has been selling property sight unseen. Some have been offering even MORE than the asking price.
Rhonda Michaels enjoying a fun collaboration with Westcraft Homes, staging their newest model home in Silverbook.
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NBC Montana recently reported that existing home prices have increased by approximately 15% in the Flathead Valley and as much as 25% statewide. A Flathead County home that sold in the median price range of $335,000 in August 2019 was selling at $415,000 in August 2020. It's a simple case of supply and demand – more people looking to buy homes than people were willing to sell them. Of course, when supply became low, local residents became reluctant to sell their homes, afraid they wouldn't be able to find another home to buy in their price range. According to Walthers, many chose instead to start remodeling projects in their current home – adding a home office, home gym, and schoolroom to accommodate all the different activities that have been taking place within their four walls. Outdoor living spaces have also enjoyed a new popularity.