THE INITIAL STEPS — FIND THE LAND
I should have entered this a while ago and kept a running tally. Now, however, it is based on my notes, memory and reflection on both. It may not be accurate, but reflects my current reality. As always current reality reflects back on the past and highlights the best and/or worst skipping over the mundane.
After a family reunion in the Flathead Lake area, the wife and I discussed the possibility of this being a place we might consider for a summer vacation home and, eventually, summer retirement home. It should be noted, that although one of us grew up in Montana, it was clear we did not have the intention of spending winters in Montana — we enjoy the winter warmth of the South. It is surprising how quick the body can adjust to an environment without severe cold. The reverse also holds true for the severe heat and humidity of the south – – adjustment is not very quick.
The discussion and decision was not easy. Since we like to travel, did it make sense to invest in a summer place — the time and money could be spent on several nice trips exploring the world. There is so much we haven’t seen!
Unfortunately, we were at least a decade late in our search. It seems the “rich and famous” also known as Californians have decided this is the next in place. The Montanan’s want there money, but not there resulting high prices. But life goes on – with each benefit there must invariably be some pain.
The following summer saw us visiting family in Montana. We took the three hour trip to Flathead Lake and started the process of looking for a place in Flathead Lake. We found a realtor, who works with buyers only, and started the process. She was very patient with us during the process. The first summer saw us visiting several homes and sites, but nothing really caught our interest. Some were interesting, but not what we wanted. On the other hand, I’m not sure we knew, then or now, what we wanted.
The second visit was the following summer. Our daughter came with us because we promised a trip to Glacier Park. She was patient the first day as we visited several places and property. This process was, however, quite boring for a 20 something and the second day she stayed at the quaint B&B. The host found her a place for a massage and later quite time at the lake and river. She was quite mellow after that.
On the second visit, we again visited several homes and sites. When we saw the site we eventually purchased, we fell in love with the view (see link). There was still some discussion about the cost and whether we really wanted to build a summer place in Montana.
That night our daughter joined us for an excellent meal at a little French restaurant in Bigfork; a real find in the wilds of Montana and probably established as a result of the influx of the rich and famous.
We then went and explored the beauty of Glacier Park — TRULY, A WONDERFUL CREATION. Even the daughter thought that putting up with the boring aspects of the search was worth the trip. In addition she just hoped we would decide on something so she could spend summer vacations in this beautiful part of Montana.
We then make a bid and after several rounds of negotiations on price, access to creek, water rights and all that other unpleasant issues, we committed and purchased the land.
Then the real fun begun — we have a site, now what do we do with it?!