I take pride in Montana's enduring agricultural heritage, and I believe it is important to honor and respect it. In the Bitterroot, you will inevitably find yourself behind farm machinery slowly trudging down the highway. This a great opportunity to remember that patience is a virtue - it's haying season in Montana - so keep in mind they're just on their way to or on their way home from a long work day.

Understanding the legal rights and responsibilities involved with different aspects of land ownership is an important part of rural life in Montana. Our state is one of only three legally classified as "open range" so something as seemingly simple as fencing can become a big deal.

After a long winter, a good deep clean of the house seems always to be in order, especially if you're planning to sell. From cleaning carpets to washing windows and wiping down the cupboards and baseboards, there are many things inside that should be done to prepare a home to list on the market. It's time for spring rural listing preparation.