It seems that there is a lack of higher quality, albeit maybe smaller, single level homes in Missoula, MT. Over the past few years, I seem to have run into this problem over and over again in looking for properties for buyers I am working with.
I am currently working with some clients who are retired, and plan on moving to Missoula from out of state within the next year. They have a significant down payment, and a pretty broad price range. Their ideal house would be a single level, detached townhome, between 2,000 – 3,000 square feet, three bedroom, 2 full bathroom, decent sized laundry room, three car garage and a homeowner’ association that would maintain exterior spaces. They are downsizing from a larger home, and would like to have some of the nicer amenities (hardwood flooring, tile, solid stone counters, solid core doors, upgraded, windows, etc.). I have been looking for the right fit for them for over 6 months, to no avail.
It seems to me that this would be a common demand area in Missoula, especially in some of the more popular areas. I am always excited to see the start of a construction project, however, I am continually surprised when the developments are yet another apartment building, or starter homes/townhomes with two levels and small square footages. Let me clarify that I am not stating there is not a need for starter homes, but there definitely seems to be an un-tapped portion of the market for baby boomers who would like to get rid of stairs in their home, but maintain a comfortable space where they can entertain.
I believe there are certain areas that touch on this a little bit: Canyon River on the east side of Missoula, some of the Ranch Club out off of Mullan Rd., some of the Brookside Townhomes in the Rattlesnake, and some of the single level homes on Preston Street. The problem I have been running into is that many of these people really want to be closer to downtown, or at least a little more centrally located.
I am hopeful that some of the developments to come will start to fill this void in our market, as it seems like there will be more and more buyers who will be looking for this kind of home.