Page 37 - Flathead Beacon // 7.23.14

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REAL ESTATE
Northern Neighbors
JULY 23, 2014 | 37
MONTANA LIFESTYLES
By CARMEN HOBSON
Driving through the Flathead Valley at dawn, the sun’s rays peeking over the Columbia Range, it’s easy to see the beauty that draws in those seeking a slower pace and outdoor lifestyle. The vast Rocky Mountains line the east horizon, the valley envelopes the sleepy towns and businesses that thrive on the recreation industry and a multitude of lakes dot the landscape. These are but a few reasons why the Flathead Valley is chosen by Canadians who wish to play in Montana.
On any given holiday, spotting the telltale red and white license plates of our welcome visitors from the north is simple. They make the trek from Alberta, Sas- katchewan, British Columbia and other areas, to shop, cruise the lakes, golf, and ski “The Big.” Some are first- timers, but it’s surprising how many return year after year to enjoy family vacations, treks in Glacier Nation- al Park, or just a quiet respite at their lake cabins. The majority of these visitors hail from Calgary and Leth- bridge. The familiar lilt in their voices makes you smile when they speak of how much they enjoy what the Flat- head has to offer, and why this area elicits their interest. Calgary is a highly educated, powerful city that never sleeps. Engineers, geologists and commercial farmers make up a good portion of the population who want to escape the hustle and bustle of their hometowns and turn the clock back to a friendlier time where the at- mosphere is casual, their activity options plentiful, and the costs are a fraction of what they’re used to.
The Flathead Valley boasts four true seasons, which is perfect for these lively visitors. Whitefish Mountain Resort, or “The Big” as it’s referred to locally, is the obvious winter draw. Its family-friendly atmosphere and casual attitude are welcoming to Canadians who just want to spend some great quality time with those close to them. Here, they can avoid the large crowds and costs associated with their prominent ski areas. Those not wishing to participate in the snow sports happily wander through the quaint shops of our small- er towns, or hit the “Magic Mile” in Kalispell to shop the box stores for clothing, and other treasures. Sum- mer brings the golfers and boating enthusiasts, and our lakes and lakefront properties have become a focal point to our friends from the north. With real estate in Canada selling for considerably higher prices than here in the states, many Canadians have snapped up our wa-
terfront homes for a fraction of the costs exhibited on their side of the border. The same applies to golf com- munities, and our Canadian counterparts will share with you that the beauty of our region coupled with the welcoming attitude of the locals keeps them investing in the Flathead.
Having made acquaintance with many Canadi- ans who are now my friends, the consistent comment is that they feel as if this valley is their second home. They ski our mountains, camp our back country and their children grow up splashing in our lakes. They shop our businesses, frequent our fabulous restau- rants, and haunt the local watering holes. The Flathead isn’t just a vacation spot for these folks; it’s a way of life that will continue into the next generation. They care for our communities as we do and are investing in our future, as well as theirs. Recently visiting with some Canadian friends of mine, they mentioned that
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years ago things were a little different. Our community was not so welcoming to our foreign friends from the north, seemingly threatened by their “invasion.” These friends feel that in light of the changing economy in the States, the Flathead Valley has come to recognize that the influx of Canadian dollars has helped stabilize and stimulate this area’s economy. These friends say that they now feel much more integrated into our commu- nities, and they also want to see the area thrive. They take pride in their U.S. homes, and truly appreciate us as their friends and neighbors. As long as we continue to welcome them into our midst, this great partner- ship across the borders will continue So, the next time you hear that happy lilt, introduce yourself. Strike up a conversation over a cool beverage, and you never know what friends you may find from across the border.
Carmen Hobson is a Broker at Glacier Sotheby's International Realty
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