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Remember, you’re not done shopping, ‘til you’ve been to
Introducing Tools of Tomorrow - a monthly showcase featuring our members who are raising the bar with a standout product, service, or new technique in the housing industry. Whether it’s cutting-edge technology, sustainable materials, or a new way of solving old challenges, these innovations represent the forward-thinking spirit that sets our members apart.
A RESOURCE YOU CAN BUILD ON
At Montana Home Journal, we believe that homes are more than walls and roofs—they’re where stories unfold, traditions are passed down, and dreams are built. As the next chapter of the long-running Homes of the Falls, our magazine is proud to carry on the legacy of highlighting the places and people that make Montana feel like home.
Each month, you’ll find a curated mix of real estate, home design, renovation inspiration, and insight into our state’s housing landscape. We’ll take you inside stunning remodels, peek into historic properties, and shine a light on the builders, designers, and dreamers who shape the spaces we live in.
But our favorite stories will come from you.
Whether it’s a family cabin filled with generations of memories, a one-of-a-kind renovation project, or a hidden gem with an unexpected past—we want to hear about it. Share your personal stories, snapshots of your home, or local housing history you think deserves to be featured. From quirky design choices to timeless craftsmanship, no story is too small when it’s rooted in home.
Send your submissions, photos, or ideas to lindsey@montanahomejournal.com for a chance to be featured in an upcoming issue. We can’t wait to explore Montana’s homes—both past and present—through your eyes.
Here’s to stories well-built, Montana Home Journal
HIGH-QUALITY, ENERGY-EFFICIENT WINDOWS & DOORS
Transform your home with premium windows and doors from Thermoseal. Whether you are building new or replacing old, we offer top-quality products built to withstand Montana’s toughest weather while enhancing your home’s beauty and efficiency.
Building a new home or structure? Muddy Creek Truss supplies highquality roof trusses for contractors, builders, and homeowners.
At The Front Agency, real estate is more than a transaction—it’s a homegrown passion. We’re proud to live and work in the same stunning landscapes we help our clients call home. From the wide-open plains to the rugged beauty of the Rocky Mountain Front, we know this region because it’s part of who we are.
Whether you’re searching for your first home, or somewhere special to put down roots, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. With decades of local expertise, personalized service, and a deep love for Montana, The Front Agency isn’t just here to help you buy or sell - we’re here to find the place where your Montana dream becomes reality.
Jen Barnett (406) 781-3947
Mary Ann Hilyard (406) 403-8274
Deanna Rutten (406) 952-4593
Jennifer Gruber (406) 770-0303
Tasha Johnson (406)
Sierra Waltari (406)
Helen Music (406)
Real Estate Redefined
At REP Space, we don’t just capture spaces—we bring them to life. As the premier full-service media company for real estate and commercial properties, we deliver high-impact photography, cinematic videography, immersive 3D virtual tours, and stunning drone work that make every listing stand out. With a keen eye for detail and a commitment to excellence, we create visuals that don’t just showcase properties—they help sell them. Whether you’re a REALTOR®, builder, designer or business owner, REP Space ensures your space is seen at its finest.
10 Bend View Lane | Great Falls
When the owner of this Big Bend home began envisioning updates, she wasn’t aiming for a full-scale renovation. Instead, she sought a thoughtful refresh—one that would add charm, warmth, and a touch of timeless elegance without losing the character that already made the house feel like home.
The transformation started in the dining room, where new wainscoting painted in a soft cream (Benjamin Moore White Dove at 75% strength) adds dimension and sophistication. Delicate wallpaper brings in subtle texture, and a brushed gold chandelier casts a soft, flattering light that feels both current and classic. This space now sets the tone for the rest of the home—inviting, cohesive, and effortlessly stylish.
In the sunroom, dark wine racks were replaced with open shelving for a lighter, more intentional feel. The existing cabinetry was unified and elevated with a brass rail and coordinating hardware, while beadboard along the backsplash introduced a cottage-inspired element that keeps the space grounded and cozy.
The exterior received a fresh coat of Sherwin-Williams Shoji White, accented with deep bronze trim in Urban Bronze, giving the home a clean, modern look that fits beautifully into the surrounding landscape.
Photos by REP Space
Inside, several rooms saw dated carpet swapped for warm wood flooring—instantly adding character and continuity. The natural tones and clean lines brought a grounded, cohesive feel that carries from room to room.
It’s a space that balances style and function—and a reminder that beauty often lies in the details. The quiet updates, like new finishes and improved flow, bring comfort, personality, and a lasting sense of home.
The views are truly something to savor with expansive skies, rolling hills, and glimpses of the Missouri River winding below. Wildlife often wanders through, offering a peaceful rhythm that changes with the seasons. A balcony off the living room and primary suite creates the perfect perch to take it all in.
The spacious en suite bath features a deep soaking tub beneath a graceful arch,
framed by soft natural light filtering through wood-trimmed windows. In a space made for quiet moments, decorative tilework adds a handcrafted touch, and the statement chandelier adds just the right amount of charm.
Beyond aesthetics, this home was thoughtfully designed for everyday ease. Main-level living, two laundry rooms, and generous storage allow for both comfort and convenience. Built-ins add personality and purpose, while the seamless indoor-outdoor flow makes entertaining effortless. From the sunny deck to the large covered patio, every corner invites you to slow down and enjoy the view.
This home is listed by Katie Carvell with Threshold Real Estate, and is under contract at the time of publication.
(406) 727-6000
164 WHITETAIL LANE - ULM
MODERN COMFORT ON THE MISSOURI RIVER 4-bed, 3-bath home featuring spacious living, beautiful views, and an attached 3-car garage. With thoughtful updates and a peaceful setting, it’s a comfortable retreat just steps from the water. #30047339
166 WHITETAIL LANE - ULM
MISSOURI RIVER FRONTAGE ON 4.5 ACRES
Enjoy mountain and river views from this private retreat with a 3-bed, 2-bath home, oversized 3-car garage, and 1,600+ sq ft shop. From snow days to summer nights, this Montana property has it all. #30047361
381 LYNG AVE W - HIGHWOOD
SMALL-TOWN LIVING WITH MOUNTAIN VIEWS
This Highwood home offers a large yard, mature trees, and stunning views at the base of the Highwood Mountains. An apartment above the garage adds flexibility in a peaceful setting. #30045821
Montana Market Watch
Insights on Supply, Demand, and Seasonal Shifts
As the Montana real estate season ramps up this spring, buyers and sellers alike are keeping a close eye on the market. Whether you’re planning to make a move or just watching from the sidelines, knowing which direction the market is heading can make all the difference in how—and when—you take action.
Several factors influence whether the scales tip in favor of buyers or sellers. Interest rates, inventory levels, seasonal demand, and broader economic trends all play a role. For example, rising interest rates can slow buyer activity, giving sellers fewer offers to choose
from. Inflation and job stability also impact consumer confidence and long-term affordability. On the other hand, a sudden influx of listings in a tight inventory area can create more opportunity for buyers.
Montana markets are especially sensitive to seasonal patterns. While winter is always the slowest, spring always brings a wave of new listings, but if buyer demand doesn’t keep pace, conditions can shift quickly.
So far in 2025, signs point to a market that’s slowly rebalancing. While some areas remain com-
petitive, homes are staying on the market a bit longer, and more listings are seeing price adjustments than last spring. National reports from Realtor.com and the National Association of REALTORS® show growing inventory in many regions—Montana included.
That doesn’t mean it’s a full-on buyer’s market just yet. Well-presented homes in desirable areas are selling fast and attracting strong interest. But the pace has eased, and there’s more breathing room for buyers than in recent years. For now, the advantage still depends heavily on location, price point, and timing.
Buyers may have a little more time to weigh options or negotiate terms, but don’t expect deep discounts—sellers who price strategically, especially those utilizing a real estate professional, are still seeing strong results, even more so with wellmaintained, updated and movein ready homes.
Sellers may need to adjust expectations. Multiple offers and quick closings aren’t guaranteed this spring. A solid pricing strategy, professional photos, and marketing remain essential. Homes across Montana are taking longer to sell, and more listings are seeing price reductions. Interest rates and eco-
nomic uncertainty are continuing to shape buyer behavior, making confidence and clarity more valuable than ever.
As the season unfolds, success will come to those who stay informed, stay flexible, and take the time to position their property—or their offer—with care.
Discover a rare opportunity to own a pristine piece of Montana’s wilderness near the historic Castle Town in Meagher County. Nestled in the shadow of Elk Peak, with mature trees, the land features meandering creeks in the area that enhance its serene ambiance The area is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, with elk, deer, and various bird species. Located a short drive from White Sulphur Springs, the property’s diverse terrain is ideal for hiking, hunting, fishing, and horseback riding, offering endless outdoor adventures. Whether envisioning a private retreat, a hunting lodge, or a homestead, these properties offer limitless possibilities.
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30+ acres along Muddy Creek, this 2023 log home features a 2-bed, 2-bath layout with wood finishes, a wood-burning stove, and quality craftsmanship. This piece of Montana is ideal for animals, projects, or simply a place to hang your hat. #30044292
0.83± acre commercial lot located near high-traffic streets in a prime area. Fully enclosed with new chain link fencing, next to grocery stores, retail, and restaurants. A great opportunity to build or expand in a convenient location. #30000744
442 Vaughn North Frontage Road - Vaughn, MT
NHN 24th Street South
Great Falls, MT
Designer Christian Stone doesn’t just follow design trends—she rewrites the rules. With five sons, a busy family life, and a deep love for crafting intentional spaces, her latest remodel is a masterclass in balancing beauty with practicality.
From the moment you walk into the home, a single signature tone makes a quiet but confident statement. A moody, vibrant blue weaves through the rooms—on cabinets, textiles, and accent walls—offering depth without dominance. “It has just enough boldness to hold a whole house together,” Stone says. And it does, anchoring the design with subtle cohesion.
Functionality, however, is at the heart of everything. Christian’s approach is rooted in real life: kids running through the halls, socks abandoned mid-room, cereal bowls migrating to the couch. “I love luxury,” she says, “but it has to survive real life.” That practical elegance shows up in every detail—from performance fabrics to finishes that hold up to wear while still elevating the space.
But it’s her willingness to take risks that truly sets her apart. One standout? A freestanding bathtub placed boldly in the master bedroom. Inspired by a half-joking comment from her husband, the idea became a reality—and a showstopping one at that. With views overlooking the river and city beyond, it’s a personal retreat that blurs the line between everyday living and vacation-level relaxation.
Throughout the home, geometric patterns, layered textures, and striking ceiling treatments give each room its own voice while keeping the overall tone unified. “Every room should feel like its own, but it has to match the rest of the house,” Stone explains. That consistencyadds a sense of cohesiveness that makes the design intentional and inspired.
Christian and her husband Jordan work as a team—her creative vision balanced by his skill in bringing ideas to life. Their process is collaborative, rooted in trust and a shared willingness to laugh through the chaos. That dynamic shows up in the home’s final result: a space that feels warm, lived-in, and full of personality.
While Stone doesn’t start her projects with a defined narrative, the homes she designs always tell a story shaped by emotion, memory, and meaning. “I start by asking, ‘How do I want this home to feel?’” she says. The result is a space that feels collected, not curated—layered with rich wood tones, lived-in textures, unique layouts, and personal touches.
Christian and Jordan don’t just build houses—they build homes with heart. Their projects are shaped by the rhythms of real family life, the push and pull of creative ambition, and the belief that de-
Christian Stone Designer, REALTOR®
sign should never feel disposable. Each project begins with potential and ends with a space that feels deeply personal and rooted in purpose. With The Ranchette, they transformed a traditional layout into a reflection of who they are— creative, resilient, and unafraid to challenge convention.
One of the most compelling parts of the home is how it evolves from room to room without losing its soul. A kitchen grounded by bold cabinetry gives way to a master suite that’s restful yet surprising, anchored by that signature bathtub and a stunning view. Even the
bathrooms, often afterthoughts in many remodels, feel intentional and layered.
Christian continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in residential remodels, with a focus on homes that feel functional, and unforgettably original. As a licensed REALTOR®, she offers her clients not only the vision to reimagine a space—but the insight to find the right one in the first place. If you’re looking to create a home that reflects your story from the ground up, Christian is currently taking on new clients for both design and real estate projects.
Photos by REP Space
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Homebuying Without the Headaches
Buying a home is one of life’s biggest milestones. But between deciphering loan options, navigating interest rates, and figuring out closing costs, the process can feel overwhelming.
For many homebuyers in Great Falls, a different kind of lending experience is making all the difference. Montana Credit Union takes an approach that’s refreshingly straightforward – one that prioritizes financial well-being over sales quotas.
Unlike traditional banks and mortgage companies, where loan officers often work on commission, Montana Credit Union operates differently. The goal isn’t to push buyers into the biggest loan possible – it’s to help them find the right fit.
“We’re here to find the best product for our members, even if that means it’s not with us. It’s about long-term financial health, not just closing a loan.”
That member-first approach means lower fees, flexible lend-
ing options, and local expertise that national lenders can’t always match.
There can be a lot of steps in the process to getting into a home. From pre-qualification to closing day, the team looks for ways to streamline the experience.
“Sometimes, a realtor’s market analysis can replace a full appraisal, which can save buyers hundreds of dollars.”
Big banks and online lenders may offer convenience, but they often lack the personal touch that can make all the difference during a complex process. At Montana Credit Union, mortgages aren’t just transactions, they’re relationships. Without the pressure to turn a profit for shareholders, Montana Credit Union keeps costs lower and offers creative solutions for borrowers who might not fit the standard loan mold.
Unlike lenders that sell loans off to other institutions, Montana Credit Union keeps servicing in-house whenever possible. That means
Lindsay Lee Mortgage Loan Officer
homebuyers always have a familiar face to turn to when questions arise. According to the Montana Credit Union team, it’s important for their team to continue supporting first-time homebuyers even after they are in their new home by answering questions and being a trusted source of information on the mortgage.
For first-time buyers, the mortgage process can feel like a crash course in financial jargon. That’s why education is at the heart of Montana Credit Union’s approach.
“There are no secrets in real estate.The more upfront buyers are about their financial situation, the better we can guide them toward smart decisions.”
From determining how much home they can truly afford to avoiding pitfalls before closing, buyers here aren’t just securing a mortgage, they’re gaining a partner in the process. Having that kind of support for those stepping into the housing market for the first time, can turn a stressful process into a confident one.
Darcy Haldane Mortgage Loan Processor
Tucked in the valley of the Highwood Mountains, just 20 miles outside of Great Falls, Belt is a small town with deep Montana roots. Founded in 1885 as a coal mining hub, early settlers named it after the distinct “belt” of rock and coal layers visible along the nearby mountains, a natural band that still cuts across the landscape today.
Life in Belt is grounded in community values and a connection to the land. Neighbors know each other by name, and small-town traditions still shine, from barbecues at the park to annual favorites like the Belt Rodeo and Beltstock music festival. It’s a place where kids still ride bikes and a strong sense of belonging comes naturally.
Belt Creek meanders through town, offering a plethora of summer activities along the banks. Families picnic and play, and anglers cast lines for trout downstream The towering cottonwoods offer dappled shade, while the rugged canyon walls rise along the edges, giving the creek a sense of seclusion and wild Montana beauty.
Today, Belt blends old and new with quiet charm. The town’s main street still showcases original buildings from the late 1800s, many built by immigrant stonemasons—including Finnish craftsman Matt Maki. Known for his skill and attention to detail, Maki left a lasting impression on the region through sturdy stone structures and hillside homesteads that continue to stand as quiet testaments to the immigrant families who helped shape the area.
Though the town of Belt has a small population within city limits, the town covers a wide range of landscapes and lifestyles—from homes tucked into the hillsides above town to sprawling creekfront properties, mountain retreats, and working cattle ranches. With endless Montana views offering a little bit of everything that makes rural Montana living so special, Belt is truly one of Montana’s last best places.
Education and athletics are central to Belt’s community. Belt Public Schools offer a nurturing environment for students and over the past decade, the Huskies have secured multiple Class C state championships in volleyball, football, and basketball, reflecting the town’s strong support for youth athletics.
From exploring historic stone buildings or casting a line into Belt Creek to hiking into the Highwoods or cheering on the Huskies under the Friday night lights, Belt is a place where Montana’s rich history, scenic beauty, and small-town spirit come together. Whether you’re a longtime local or just passing through, it’s the kind of place where memories are made—and where the best parts of Montana life still thrive.
Photos by REP Space
WELL-KEPT
Cozy,
Turning Houses into Homes one paw print at a time..
RARE OPPORTUNITY TO OWN A BRAND NEW SILVER STONE HOME
Experience refined Montana living with this Silver Stone home currently being built on a 2.25-acre lot in the coveted Foothills Ranch Subdivision. Meticulously crafted with high-end woodwork and rich custom finishes, this home features one of our most sought-after floorplans - designed to impress and built to last.
Step inside to a soaring vaulted great room anchored by a dramatic floor-to-ceiling fireplace, seamlessly flowing into a gourmet kitchen with a statement quartz island and commercialgrade appliances—perfect for both entertaining and everyday living. The luxurious master suite invites relaxation with a freestanding soaking tub and a beautifully tiled walk-in shower.
Warm Douglas fir timber accents frame the welcoming front porch, while the expansive covered back patio offers a peaceful retreat with sweeping views and space to unwind. Upstairs, a private en-suite with its own deck adds flexibility for guests or family, and the finished lower level includes a spacious family room and an additional en-suite with a custom tile walk-in shower.
