July 2013 • FREE SEE OUR CENTER SPREAD
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R E A L
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publication
C O M P A N I E S
All it takes is two. “One” buyer and “one” seller. Simple.
By Eric Ossorio Prudential/Ossorio Real Estate 406 539 9553 Eric.ossorio@prumt.com
The good news is that something is continuing to happen in the Big Sky real estate market. The bad news is that no one can accurately put their finger on what it is. Somewhere in there lies opportunity. Summertime is here, the water is high, the fish are jumping, hikers are hiking, PBR (Professional Bull Riders) is coming back and the Beach Boys are going to croon for adoring fans of all ages to celebrate Independence Day Festivities, under our own Big Sky in the Town Center. So, what’s up? All sorts of fun stuff. Many land owners are making plans to spend more quality time here. An increase in new homes construction is back in swing after a bit of a lull. A quick look at Land Use Permit applications and BSOA Architectural Board reviews shows that activity is on the up and up. Gallatin County/ Big Sky zoning district Land Use Permit reviews were up 30% for the year May 2012-June 2013 over the previous year. And that does NOT include the fast pace of activity in the Yellowstone Club. Backhoes are digging, the skyline is changing. The Club at Spanish Peaks looks to be poised for a new start. On the more speculative side, for some the pool is looking deep and full, so a few developers, confident that a market recovery is ripening, are rushing in to fill a need that they feel they must satisfy. Plans are afoot for two new Condo developments in the Meadow Village. A 7 unit project is underway on Tract 5
at the east end of Curley Bear Road near the Golf course club house. Another development offering new construction is has been approved on the corner of Little Coyote Road and Two Gun White Calf, turning the Broadwater Tract, also known as Tract 9, into 28 units. Demolition of the “Titanic” (Big Sky’s original and iconic Medical Clinic building from the early 1970s), midway between the Meadow and the Mountain on Lone Mountain Trail, is underway, suggesting plans are afoot, though no specifics have been approved by the Gallatin County/Big Sky planning department, yet. The remainder (four units) of the suspended Fairways development on Tract E is pending, and Alpine Meadows Luxury suite building 7 in Moonlight Basin found a buyer/developer who is reinvigorating the project, with a sale of one out of four units pending. Additionally, a vacant commercial lot adjacent to the Lone Peak Cinema in the Town Center is under contract. A 4.6 acre tract adjacent to American Bank along MT 64, Lone Mountain Trail, sold this spring. 142 acres in Section 31 is under contract...and several more projects are in the works.
What do the numbers tell us? There are 433 active listed properties (all classes...land, homes, condos, commercial) in the greater Big Sky area (including those properties in the “YC” Yellowstone Club) listed for sale on MLS. 71 properties are located in the North and South Canyon. Roughly 1/2 are priced at over $500,000, with 15 priced at over $1,000,000. 362 properties are listed in the Mountain and Meadow markets. 64 are listed at over $1MM, 24 at over $3MM, 14 at over $4MM. 30 properties traded hands for over $1MM (6 were in the YC). Looking at residential only (excluding the YC), 247 properties are listed. 53 properties are listed for over $1MM in the greater Big Sky area...22 are priced over $2.5MM, and 3 priced over $4MM, with one extraordinary property at $27MM. 114 properties
are listed for under $500,000, 47 under $250,000 and only 6 at under $100,000. On the sold side, 196 residential units sold May 2012 to June 2013, representing $113,344,457 in value. (there were 28 distressed sales...14%) The previous year (May 2011 to June 2012) saw 209 trade hands representing a value of $102,160,378 (56 distressed sales ..26% of the sold units). Fewer units sold this past year, but at a greater value and with fewer distressed sales. This past year, 171 residences sold for under $1MM, with 25 sales over $1MM and 13 over $1.5MM (4 were in the YC) On the land side, there are 153 parcels listed in the greater Big Sky area. 18 parcels are priced over $1MM, and 13 over $1.5MM. 47 parcels are listed for under $250,000. On the sold side, there were 78 properties that sold between May of 2012 and June of 2013. 34 sold for under $150,000, 15 more sold over $150,000 up to $250,000, 20 more sold up to $500,000 and another 10 sold for over $500,000, with one large sale at $2.5MM. The previous year (May 2011 to June 2012) saw 26 parcels trade hands, an increase in activity of 300%. What does this tell us? It depends on what you want to do where you want to go with the information. Opportunities exist. But that’s for another article.
Eric Ossorio is a managing Broker at Ossorio/Prudential Real Estate in Big Sky, Montana where he’s lived with his wife and partner, Stacy for over 20 years, raising their three children here. Both have been active Brokers since the early 1980’s. They know this market, so you don’t have to. To contact him, call 406 539 9553, or see http://www. ossoriorealestategroup.com
* The Buyers Are Back!! *
2885 Two Moons - This spacious 4,000+/- sf 2 level home on .5 ac is located on a secluded Meadow Village lot with the Middle Fork nearby. This 4BR/4B home has a large living room w/ stone fireplace, dining room, den, updated kitchen, family room, & deck w/ hot tub. $649,500 MLS 184076
riverfronT cabin, 54295 gallaTin rd - A unique 3 bedroom, 2 bath (2,076+/- sf ) remodeled cabin with detached 2 car garage on 1.41+/- acres at the edge of the Gallatin River. 1600+/- sf deck for relaxing & river access with protected views from Forest Service land to the west & north. This is an outstanding weekend retreat or year round live-in property. It’s a rare find along the banks of the beautiful Gallatin River and the perfect waterfront property. Offered unfurnished. $689,500 MLS 177041
new lisTing
new lisTing
beaver creeK, 100 losT Pond rd - You can move right in to this delightful guest home with 2 bedrooms/ 1.5 baths/ oversized one car garage located on 39 +/- splendid acres with a magnificent trout pond. Perfect site for your dream home. $1,285,000 MLS 175158
d l o s
laKefronT Manor, loT6 - This excellent 1.04 acre lot in this small Hebgen Lake Subdivision with well, approved septic, and private community dock is perfect for the fisherman & boater. Loads of recreational fun in every season for the entire family! $299,000 MLS 170691
120 big Pine drive, UniT 3 - Take a look at this commercial space in the center of Westfork Plaza shopping mall. The unit includes a main level plus a loft area, 1/4 bath, extra sinks, & a large storage closet. There is also a south facing deck in a high traffic location. $94,500 MLS 190915
asPen groves, blocK d loT 1 - This 1.064 acre corner lot is one of the best building sites in Aspen Groves for location and terrain with mature trees, glorious mountain views, nesting song birds, & abundant wildlife. $195,000 MLS 190583
Moosedraw cabin - Stylish textures & reclaimed materials accent this 3938+/- sf custom 3BR/3.5B home on 19.8+/- ac in Buck Ridge Ranch. Featured in “Log Home Ideas” magazine, this exquisitely decorated home views Lone Mountain & offers exclusive access to USFS lands. Shown by appointment. $1,495,000 MLS 185079
besT views in big Horn #53 - This upgraded end unit has 3 bedrooms, 3 baths with tile in the entry, kitchen & bath and upgraded carpet. There is a stone fireplace, great windows, and the very best views of the creek & mountain lake in Big Horn. $449,500 MLS 151890
beaverHead 1467- This 2,010 sf 3 bedroom/3 bath unfurnished condo in Mt. Village has 1st rate access to the ski runs. Other great features include a building elevator, 2 car garage, beautiful rock fireplace, spacious bedrooms, separate hot tub room, & 2 balconies. $560,000 MLS 186710
bUcK ridge rancH, loT 32a - This 39+/acre tract has all the key elements: enchanting meadow surrounded by trees, abundant wildlife & unlimited recreational opportunities. Horse are permitted & lot backs Forest Service Land. $1,400,000 MLS 156618
Meadow village blK5, loTs 23 & 24- These 2 unique side-by-side Little Coyote lots have million dollar views because they’re located above the road at the top of the hill. Buy one lot or both & you’ll have over 1/2 an acre with room for a terrific home. $148,900 (each) MLS 188524 & 188525
Price redUced
elKridge loT 3- Enjoy Western living at its finest on this 20 acre tract. A rare find in exclusive Elk Ridge Ranch. This lot has breathtaking views of Lone Mtn, Pioneer Mtn & the Spanish Peaks. Horses allowed seasonally. $499,500 MLS 178135
big Horn 25- Fabulous location just 3 doors down from the Poma ski lift. Lovely views of Lone Mountain from the master bedroom enhance this unit which has 3 bedrooms & 3 full baths, plus an indoor heated, attached garage. Priced right to sell, you’ll want to see this unit! $375,000 MLS 176327
raMsHorn loT - This .46+/- acre lot is located on Ramshorn View’s upper bench. There’s ample room for a very comfortable home & prime views of the Gallatin River & the Porcupine Elk Refuge across the road. Fishing, hiking, & wildlife viewing are unforgettable. $129,000 MLS 183777
JUsT lisTed
sTillwaTer 1023 - Updated 1BR/Loft/2B Stillwater condo has new cabinets, granite counter tops, and tile flooring in the kitchen and baths. This is a turn-key property with great views of the mountain creek in summer & Andesite ski runs in winter . $285,000 MLS 158391
seller financing
d l o s Hill condos- Take your pick. We have 4 Mountain Village Hill studios located on the 1st & 2nd floors with Lone Mountain views. Each 440+/- sf condo includes: living/dining area, galley kitchen, separate bedroom area & bath. Priced from $68,000.
1135 bUcK ridge Trl - Dreaming about a spacious log home for your family gatherings? This 5,000+/- sf home with 5 bedrooms/6 baths on 19+ acres will certainly fill the bill & there’s even a separate 1 bedroom/1 bath guest house for overflow. $1,375,000 MLS 181225
dUdleY creeK, loT 1 - This wonderful 17.51 ac tract in Dudley Creek located just a short distance from the Big Sky entrance has an excellent house site tucked away on a level bench above the road & overlooks a pasture with a conservation easement along the Gallatin to the east & abuts wilderness to the west. $299,750 MLS 181527
losT Trails - This 20 acre tract located halfway between the Meadow & Mountain Villages offers panoramic views of the Spanish Peaks & the Gallatin Range. If you want land that is easily accessible & private you’ll be enthralled by this property. $525,000 MLS 164610
d l o s cascade loT - Enjoy fantastic views of Lone Mountain from this .75 acre lot on White Otter Rd. Ski to the White Otter lift to start your ski day & return home via the White Otter Trl. This gently sloping lot faces southwest & overlooks a stream side green belt. $229,000 MLS 181908
sTillwaTer 1035 - Enchanting views of the mountain stream in the summer & ski runs in the winter are hallmarks of this ground floor 1BR/1B skier-friendly condo. This neat & clean unit features a fireplace, satellite TV, and easy access to the ski lift & mountain amenities. $175,000 MLS 185895
bUcK ridge rancH, loT 27a - This ideal recreational property offers many amenities including a year-round stream & 39.856 acres backing to Forest Service Land with hunting, hiking, snowmobiling, ATV’ing, and horseback riding opportunities. $695,000 MLS 191385
nexT To THe exxon off HwY 191- This commercial zoned 1,500+/- sf canyon workshop/ storage facility has propane heat, a bathroom, office space, and 2 entry doors plus a 10 ft overhead door. The location is perfect for contractors & small businesses. $105,000 MLS 187307
Becky & Jer r y Pape - Broker/Ow ners 406-995-4848 (Office next to the Exxon) | 888-830-4883 (Toll free) 406-995-4883 (Anytime) | www.triplecreek.com
Specifically Niche bigskysothebysrealty.com | waterfrontpropertiesSIR.com
Meadow Village
406.995.2211
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Town Center
©MMXII Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. a Realogy Company. All Rights Reserved. Sotheby’s International Realty® is a registered trademark licensed to Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. An equal opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. If your property is listed with a real estate broker, please disregard. It is not our intention to solicit the offerings of other real estate brokers. We are happy to work with them and cooperate fully.
406.995.2244
$2,000,000 to 4,000,000
227 Andesite Ridge Road
90 Diamond Hitch
An exquisite mountain home featuring incredible living space with each room taking advantage of majestic views of YNP and the Gallatin Range. 4 BR, 7 BA, 2.13 AC, 4,922 Sq. Ft., WEB: 20193336 | $3,950,000
This majestic log home is perched on a wooded promontory with panoramic views. 4 BR, 5 BA, 1.39 AC, 4,000+/- Sq. Ft., WEB: 4352492 | $3,595,000
Yellowstone Club
Big Sky’s Quintessential Ski Cabin
$800,000 to 1,999,999
1214 Silverado Trail
Bella Terra
This exquisite custom home’s style is based on notions of craft and beauty with spaces created to enhance the character and comfort of the living experience. 5 BR, 3.5 BA, 4.76 AC, 6,700 Sq. Ft., WEB: 4444873 | $2,900,000
Andesite Homesite 175
74 Tanager Fork
Private Wolf Creek Homestead
In addition to the beauty of the site, the amenities of the Yellowstone Club, including the Warren Miller Lodge and the Camp House, are just a short drive away. 2.63 AC, WEB: 4344582 | $1,450,000
This cozy settlement cabin offers comfortable living spaces, high end finishes, easy ski access to Big Sky Resort and is just a short walk to the Spanish Peaks Club house and golf course. 3 BR, 4 BA, 2,294 Sq. Ft. | $995,000
Beautiful log home on very private acreage. Go “Green” and live off the grid in luxury. 3 BR, 2 BA, 320 AC, 2, 172 Sq. Ft., WEB: 20502722 | $999,000
Yellowstone Club
The Club at Spanish Peaks Settlement Cabin
Off The Grid
10 Red Cloud Loop
200 W Beaver Creek Road
17270 Madison Road
The original owner has kept this cabin immaculate & added many upgrades including solid granite counter-tops, expanded deck, hickory floors and cabinets and more. 4 BR, 3 BA, 2,642 Sq. Ft., WEB: 4368925 | $809,900
Spectacular vista from this four bedroom, six bath home, on 20 acres, in a gated community. 4 BR, 6 BA, 20 AC, 4,500 Sq. Ft., WEB: 4380518 | $1,150,000
This unique & private property has over 2000 feet of Madison River frontage.Views of the river from the house are spectacular. 3 BR, 3.5 BA, 26.24 AC, 4,122 Sq. Ft., WEB: 4453387 | $1,175,000
Powder Ridge Ski-in, Ski-out Cabin
Wonderful Home, Private Pond
Madison River Frontage
$400,000 to 799,999
64140 Gallatin Road
Spanish Peaks Club Condo
49850 Gallatin Raod
Enjoy great fishing access, privacy and views. The main home is impeccably maintained and boasts high end finishes including cherry and stone floors, granite counters. 3 BR, 3 BA, 2.34 AC, 2,011 Sq. Ft., WEB: 20672755 | $625,000
Exquisitely furnished and decorated, ALL furnishings included in the price. Creekside location with great mountain views over the golf course. 2 BR, 3 BA, 0.30 AC, 2,403 Sq. Ft., WEB: 4459929 | $479,000
Great cabin sits on 2.7 acres just 2 miles north of Big Sky. The location is sunny south facing with a babbling brook running along the North boundary. Horses are allowed. 3 BR, 4 BA, 2.74 AC, 2,499 Sq. Ft., WEB: 4294263 | $530,000
Gallatin River Canyon Homestead
Golf Course Condo
$100,000 to 399,999
Jack Smith Bridge Home
2025 Little Coyote
Porcupine Park Homesite
Deer Run
This southeast facing condominium has wonderful views overlooking the golf course, Levinsky ridge and Dudley ridge. 2 BR, 2 BA, 988 Sq. Ft.,WEB: 20766124 | $154,000
This 4.66 acre lot has open space, views, very buildable terrain and close proximity to all Big Sky offers. 4.66 AC, WEB: 4405603 | $375,000
Front row end unit! The upgraded finishes are beautiful. The views east are to the Gallatin Range are front and center. 3 BR, 3 BA, 2,127 Sq. Ft., WEB: 20630897 | $343,000
Broadwater Condo
Fortress Road Lot 35
Like NEW Meadow Condo
A Histor y of Excellence.
elkridge 32 The Club at Spanish Peaks, 5bd, 7 bath, on the golf course/ski in/ski out. gorgeous views. $3,485,000
The PineS Condominium 4 bd, 4 bath, centrally located, huge views of the Spanish Peaks, model unit. From $429,000
240 TroPhy Bull 3 bd + bunk room, 5 bath on 20 acres. Borders national Forest with top of the world views. $1,950,000
230 rainBow TrouT run adorable Southfork home. 4 bd, 3.5 bath, 2 car garage. 2,638 sq. ft. and .3 acre homesite. ready to move in. $599,000
mooSe ridge Condo #36 great Views from this elevated meadow location. 3bd, 5 bath , 3,216 sq.ft. unit has exquisite finishes. acres. $669,000
moonlighT ChaleT #78 wake up to this view! Ski-in/ski-out from this fabulous 3 bd, 4.5 bath, 2,624 sq. ft. unit. gorgeous views and ready to move in. $1,395,000
B i g S k y R e a l E s t a t e . c o m | 4 0 6 9 9 5 - 6 3 3 3 | L o c a t e d i n B i g S k y Tow n C e n t e r
greaThorn k ranCh #3 Fabulous 20 acres located only minutes to Big Sky Town Center. resident wildlife & gorgeous views. $649,000
215 grey owl your cabin in the Big Sky woods. 4 bd, 3 bath home with detached single car garage. 2,456 sq. ft. great views, hot tub, and fully furnished and ready to move in. $699,000
eSSenTia CondominiumS 2 units, 2 great floorplans, central location in Big Sky Town Center. Strong long or short term rental history . $405,000 & $480,000
BlaCk eagle Condominium S Ski-in/Ski-out. in the mountain Village. 3 to choose from. one finished and furnished. 3-5 bdrm. new construction. great rental history. From $865,000
lone mooSe meadowS #211 Ski-in/Ski-out from this beautiful 2bd, 2.5 bath, 1,853 sq. ft. unit. Penthouse level w/ vaulted ceilings with the middle Fork Creek right outside. $699,000
Powder ridge CaBin #126 Ski-in/ski-out, 5 bd, 4 bath, 3,064 sq. ft. hot tub and single car garage. Big views from multiple decks. great rental history. $895,000
This information is subject to errors, omissions, prior sale, change, withdrawal and approval of purchase by owner. All information from sources deemed reliable, but not guaranteed by Montana Living - Big Sky Real Estate, independent investigation is recommended. For properties being purchased at The Club at Spanish Peaks approval for membership is required prior to closing. If you are currently working with another real estate agent, this is not intended as a solicitation. Montana Living is a Montana Trademark owned by NewWest LLC.
Big Sky
BIG LIFESTYLE
PRUMT.COM | 406.995.4060 | 55 LONE PEAK DRIVE | BIG SKY TOWN CENTER FINE HOMES, CONDOS, COMMERCIAL & LAND LISTINGS
BRIDGER CANYON
$7,800,000 • #183385 • Call Don 11,000± sf Locati designed home Contains artifacts from around the world 40± acres, shop, guest residences, pond Minutes from Bridger Bowl Ski Area
NORTHFORK, TRACT 8
$950,000 • #180527 • Call Stacy or Eric 20± acres, Triple Triangle Ranch Cross-country ski trails to property Desirable enclave, old growth trees Contiguous 20± acres also available
BEAVER CREEK WEST
$645,000 • #176399 • Call Don Lot 13, 20± acres, spectacular views Located on a gentle slope, private driveway Ideal for a new home, well is drilled Convenient to all of Big Sky
105 NORDIC LANE, ASPEN GROVES
$1,085,000 • #190238 • Call Stacy or Eric 3 bd, 3.5 ba, 2,700± sf, .62 acre lot Custom home in coveted neighborhood Designer furnishings, rock wood fireplace Main level master with private covered deck
CRAIL RANCH TOWNHOME
$949,500 • #186436 • Call Stacy or Eric Unit #90, 4 bd, 4 ba, 3,500± sf Designer furnishings, plus artwork Wet bars, hot tub, heated 2 car garage Creekside with spectacular views
CRAIL RANCH TOWNHOME
$697,000 • #187760 • Call Don Unit #120: 4 bd, 4 ba, 2,742± sf Furnished, hickory flooring, steam shower Custom window coverings and interior doors Faces west toward open space & Crail Ranch
MOUNTAIN PROPERTIES
ASPEN LEAF, PEAKS CENTRE
$965,400 • #190109 • Call Stacy or Eric Unit A: $365,200 Unit B: $253,200, Unit C: $347,000 Unit A:1,826± sf,Unit B:1,266± sf,Unit C:1,735± sf Seller financing may be available, please inquire Upstairs residential units possible
RISING BEAR ROAD
$825,000 • #186462 • Call Stacy or Eric 2 parcels comprising 20± acres Both parcels can be subdivided Located between Meadow and Mountain Close to Big Sky and Moonlight Basin
SOUTHFORK MEADOWS
$598,000 • #186619 • Call Marc 2 bd, 3 ba, 3,200 ± sf, loft, additional rooms Rock fireplace, clerestory windows, large deck Vaulted ceilings, wood floors, custom lighting .32 ± acre lot, 2 car garage, agent owned
ULERY’S LAKE HOME
$3,250,000 • #186493 • Call Stacy or Eric 3 bd, 5 ba, 4,430± sf home on 20± acres 2 bd, 2 ba, detached 2,048± sf guest home Furnished, in Moonlight Basin Lone Mountain and Madison Valley views
LOW DOG ROAD
$1,295,000 • #191093 • Call Stacy or Eric 3 bd, 3.5 ba, 3,168± sf custom home Ski-in, ski-out, beautiful furnishing Great rental history, Mountain Village Includes: bigskyvacationrental.com
COWBOY HEAVEN RD
$1,050,000 • #188095 • Call Stacy or Eric 3 bd, 4 ba, plus sleeping loft, 2220± sf Aka Mountain Home #11, Moonlight Basin Ski-in, ski-out access from front door Offered furnished, including artwork
UNDER CONTRACT
GALLATIN HIGHLANDS
$575,000 #180951 • Call Stacy or Eric 20± acres, meadows, old growth fir trees Fabulous Gallatin Range views South facing, included Locati house plans Minutes from Big Sky Town Center
INDIAN MEADOWS
$560,000 • #182257 • Call Leah 539.7665 4± acres, level building site, large trees Direct access to Gallatin River trout fishing Borders Gallatin National Forest, paved access
SPANISH PEAKS CLUB
$450,000 • #183440 • Call Stacy or Eric Unit 13A, 2 bd, 3 ba, 2,403± sf, furnished Den/bonus room, two car heated garage End unit, adjacent to Big Sky Golf Course Private clubhouse with pool, workout facility
ROSEBUD LOOP
$829,995 • #187556 • Call Stacy or Eric 4 bd, 3 ba, 2567± sf, Ponderosa plan Furnished Powder Ridge Condo, excellent rental Ski-in, ski-out access Detached 1 car garage
NEW LISTING
BEAVER CREEK WEST
375,000 • #185650 • Call Don 14± acre lot, end-of-the-road privacy Gently sloping land, nice build site Great views of many mountain ranges Near national forest trails/land
CASCADE, LOT 69B
$199,000 • #183317 • Call Stacy or Eric .86± acre, premier mountain enclave Unique, wooded parcel, corner lot Spectacular views, ski accessible Could be combined with adjacent lot
SILVERADO TRAIL
$290,000 • #189681 • Call Stacy or Eric 3.91± acre lot South facing Spanish Peaks North lot Terrific sun and panoramic views Easy access from Ousel Falls road
NORDIC LANE, ASPEN GROVES LOT 12
$179,000 • # 190285 • Call Marc .99± acre lot Mature timber creates a secluded feel Close to Meadow Village and Town Center Power and phone to lot
GALLATIN RIVERFRONT
$229,000 • #184874 • Call Broomes 580.4290 .6± acre lot, backs to the Gallatin River 4 bd septic installed, 25 GPM well drilled Between Bozeman and Big Sky off Hwy. 191
HEBGEN LAKE ESTATES LOTS
$50,000 each • #189807 & 189809 • Call Marc .36 +/- acre lots in beautiful Hebgen Lake States Year round access, spectacular mtn & lake views close proximitiy to Yellowstone National Park recreational opportunities abound around the area
SKYCREST CONDO
$425,000 • #188315 • Call Stacy or Eric Unit 1730, 3 bd, 3 ba, 1976± sf One of the BEST Skycrest unites Top floor, end unit, nicely furnished New hot tub, dead on views of Lone Mountain
SKYCREST CONDO
$320,000 • #184925 • Call Don Unit 1704, 2 bd, 2 ba, 1604± sf Extensively remodeled Rock fireplace, indoor hot tub Furnished, lower level unit
DON PILOTTE BROKER, GRI, RRS, SFR 406.580.0155 | STACY OSSORIO BROKER 406.539.8553 | ERIC OSSORIO BROKER 406.539.9553 TONI DELZER SALES ASSOCIATE 406.570.3195 | MARC LAUERMANN SALES ASSOCIATE, ABR, SFR 406.581.8242 An independently owned and operated broker member of BRER Affiliates, Inc. Prudential, the Prudential logo and Rock symbol are service marks of Prudential Financial, Inc. and its related entities, registered in many jurisdictions worldwide. Used under license with no other affiliation of Prudential. Equal Housing Opportunity. All information contained herein is derived from sources deemed reliable; however, is not guaranteed by Prudential Montana Real Estate, Managing Broker, Agents or Sellers. Offering is subject to error, omissions, prior sales, price change or withdrawal without notice and approval of purchase by Seller. We urge independent verification of each and every item submitted, to the satisfaction of any prospective purchaser.
Over 3 decades building in Montana
Our team’s knowledge of custom home construction and superior craftsmanship are reflected in the clients’ consistent positive feedback. With communication, design insight, and dedication, we focus on cost effectiveness, building the most efficient way-giving you the most value possible. 145 Center Lane, Unit L Meadow Village | Big Sky, MT 59715
406-995-4579 BlueRibbonBuilders.com
July 2013
OFF T HE G R I D
By Lisa Knorr
When I met my client Chloe, I was fascinated with her unique “off the grid” home she built in 2007 in Wolf Creek, Montana. I wanted to know more about the impact her home was NOT having. She wanted a self-sustaining log home that captured the incredible mountain views of the Wolf Creek area, while blending in with nature on her 320 acres and living with modern comforts while still being off the grid. Chloe says, “I love all the peace and quiet I have around my home. Nature just moves around, doing its own thing without any interference from my living there. I’ve seen newborn fawns with their mothers, elk bugling on a crisp fall morning, eagles floating on updrafts of warm air, and an occasional bear going about his ‘bear business.’ Not to mention looking out the window on a beautiful full moon-lit night and spotting deer so clearly you can see them blink!” Chloe lives very comfortably without relying on municipal services, such as water, sewer, natural gas, power, or garbage. Her home has running water, flatscreen TVs, Wi-Fi, internet service, cell service, and even a security system—courtesy of the family dogs! When others are without electricity because of a storm, she’s still doing fine. No glitches or outages, and best of all… no bills! With solar panels that draw energy
from the sun and store it in batteries, how much cleaner and independent could she get? To maximize exposure to the sun for solar panels to power your home, you have to be cognizant of how your home is situated—the long axis of your home needs to have an east-west orientation. The solar panels connect to a series of batteries, which then store and convert the energy collected from the direct current (DC) to the alternating current (AC) used by lights and appliances. Chloe’s home has 18 solar panels, which feed 12 batteries that occupy a space about the size of a small chest freezer in a corner of her garage. A propane-powered backup generator supplements those times when the weather hasn’t been conducive to recharging the batteries—this is recommended for those living off the grid but don’t really want to “rough it.” You need to make adjustments to be truly off the grid, and some may find it challenging—but it seems “un-pluggers” find benefits in being self-sufficient. For example, read the weather and do laundry on a sunny day, and then hang your clothes to dry. Like Chloe says, “you can go without a dishwasher. Instead, just situate your sink under a window so you can see all of the beauty outside while doing a chore that’s not that bad anyway.”
Having the southern orientation for the solar panels also sets you up with ideal conditions for gardening, and there are a variety of systems that collect rainwater. You can have fresh veggies, herbs, and flowers to enjoy now and also to store for the winter months. At least for another year or so, another bonus is the benefits from the Energy Policy Act of 2005, which allows homeowners with Energy Star–approved solar systems to claim a percentage of the cost of the system as a tax credit in the year the system is installed. Check with your tax consultant before starting your project to make sure your project qualifies. We can all do our part and be more conservative with water, energy, and other natural resources even when we’re tethered to municipal services. Remember: don’t blow it—good planets are hard to find. The Wolf Creek Homestead is currently offered at $999,000. Find out more about the property (WEB ID: 190157) at bigskysothebysrealty.com.
EST. 1997
87 Lone Peak Dr Big Sky, Mt 59716 | 406.995.3670 | bigskybuild.com