What Should Affordable Housing Look Like in Bozeman?

by Liz Nitz

Affordable Housing In Bozeman

Affordable housing in Bozeman is one of the biggest issues right now.  Affordability feels especially critical because of how tight the market has become since the pandemic. A huge influx of out-of-town buyers helped drive inventory down to record lows and prices up to record highs. The median price of a home in Bozeman is now up to $615,000 according to the latest Gallatin Association of Realtors Market Watch. 

The city commission recently approved a future growth plan that will increase the city’s footprint from 20.4 square miles to 70.8 over the next 20 years. As Bozeman grows, there will be opportunities to provide more affordable options. But it’s not just about the housing itself. I believe it’s also important to consider the bigger picture of creating healthy and thriving communities. Let’s take a look at what affordable housing should look like in Bozeman.

 

More Missing Middle Housing

Pictured is an apartment complex on the corner of Koch St. and Third Avenue. This multi-unit courtyard building sits right in the heart of the historic district in downtown Bozeman and blends in well with the single-family homes around it. It’s a great example of missing middle housing, which is defined as a type of housing that sits in the middle between detached single-family homes and mid-rise to high-rise apartment buildings. Missing middle housing often makes neighborhoods that would otherwise be out of reach more affordable. Many of the really nice, well-planned subdivisions in Bozeman like West Meadows, Flanders Mill and Valley West also feature smaller townhomes and missing middle options in their communities.

 

More Mixed-Use Neighborhoods

A mixed-use neighborhood is one where residential and commercial buildings intermingle in a way that encourages walking, biking, social connections and a real feeling of community. There is an organic vibrancy and diversity to mixed-use neighborhoods if they’re done right. The historic districts in downtown Bozeman are a great example. Take a walking tour and you will see lots of examples of missing middle housing options like duplexes, fourplexes, cottage courts and courtyard buildings mixed in with modest, single-family homes and multi-million dollar mansions. And best of all, the retail, restaurants and coffee shops on Main Street are just a quick 10- to 15-minute walk or bike ride from your door. The result is an engaged and lively neighborhood where college kids and young families mingle with empty-nesters and elderly neighbors.

Some great information on missing middle housing and mixed-use neighborhoods can be found at:

www.bluezones.com 

www.missingmiddlehousing.com 

In a future post I will highlight the new Bridger View project that was recently approved by the city commission. It will feature 31 market-rate homes set aside for working families in Bozeman who have been priced out of the market. If you’re a first-time homebuyer or just have questions about the Bozeman market, feel free to contact me at liz@windermere.com.

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The following homes listed below were just listed in the last 7 days. This seller’s market is hot so we keep a close eye on the latest inventory. Subscribe below for instant updates of your ideal criteria.

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2316 Gallatin Green Boulevard 17, Bozeman, Montana 59718

2316 Gallatin Green Boulevard 17, Bozeman, Montana 59718

3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
1,530Sqft
Beautiful 3 bed 2.5 bath 1530 square foot condo with an attached 2 car garage. This unit features gray cabinets, white hard surface countertops, stainless steel appliances for a great modern feel. Wonderful location close to walking trails, parks, gym, Costco, Target, etc. 3rd bedroom does not have a closet but seller with work with buyer and show them options. AC is an available upgrade.
$445,000

3271 Warbler Way A, Bozeman, Montana 59718

3271 Warbler Way A, Bozeman, Montana 59718

3Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
2,614Sqft
Introducing Skyline Vista, a luxury condo community located on the park in Cattail Creek. With over 2600 +/- sq. feet of living space these 3 bedroom condos live large with a long list of premium upgrades. First floor family room provides a great multi purpose room or office.
$775,000

289 Heights Circle, Bozeman, Montana 59718

289 Heights Circle, Bozeman, Montana 59718

3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
0.61Acre
2,011Sqft
Custom Home with Additional Income Apartment and a Separate Office Space on .61-acres across from a 5-acre park! This home, built by Dan Jones, has a vaulted ceiling with alder stained trim and door package. The extra-large kitchen has quartz countertops, ceramic tile backsplash, and stainless-steel appliances. The living room features large windows and a beautiful rock fireplace.
$990,000

2938 Warbler Way 16, Bozeman, Montana 59718

2938 Warbler Way 16, Bozeman, Montana 59718

3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
1,392Sqft
Elkhorn Condos are designed by Locati Architects. This is an end-unit 3 bedroom condo located near shopping and public transportation, trails, ponds, playgrounds. All bedrooms are located upstairs. There is a one-car attached garage. The main level includes a galley kitchen that opens to the dining and living room.
$445,000

102 N Chouteau Avenue, Bozeman, Montana 59718

102 N Chouteau Avenue, Bozeman, Montana 59718

3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
0.23Acre
1,920Sqft
This home is calling you! It's centrally located with great access to all things 'Bozeman'. This is where neighbors come over for a 'backyard movie night' and sidewalks are filled with chalk drawings and people chatting. The outside has very nice curb appeal. The lot has plenty of mature trees and garden boxes. AND, how about your own water well for lawn and garden irrigation.
$699,000

3124 Augusta Drive, Bozeman, Montana 59715

3124 Augusta Drive, Bozeman, Montana 59715

3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
0.25Acre
1,948Sqft
Located between downtown and the Bridger Mountains across the street from the Bridger Creek golf course, this single level home backing up to open space boasts an open floor plan and vaulted ceilings. The spacious living room features a gas fireplace and large slider out to your back deck to enjoy the views.
$850,000

986 Cassandra Ln Unit A, Bozeman, Montana 59718

986 Cassandra Ln Unit A, Bozeman, Montana 59718

3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
1,769Sqft
BACKS TO OPEN SPACE! This condo feels more spacious due to its ideal location. Easy access to trails, parks, schools, and shops! Unit has 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths and a 1 car garage.
$610,000

120 Kimball B, Bozeman, Montana 59718

120 Kimball B, Bozeman, Montana 59718

4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
2,433Sqft
This charming 4 bedroom, nearly 2500sq/ft, condo is not one to miss. The beautiful kitchen features granite counter tops, and plenty of entertaining space. The bonus room on the east side of the condo is a wonderful addition to the living space of this home. The 2-car garage has plenty of space for all your toys.
$695,000

3155 Cattail A, Bozeman, Montana 59718

3155 Cattail A, Bozeman, Montana 59718

3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
1,535Sqft
Great end unit in duplex building, with all new paint and carpet. Located in an established neighborhood with open space, trails, parks, ponds, and views. This place is move-in ready and awaiting your personal touches. Great light with lots of windows in this open main level floorplan with half bath on the main level.
$499,000
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