🌿 Welcome to Holistic Real Estate in Montana

I’ve always believed that real estate is more than transactions and timelines.

Whether you’re buying land, selling a custom home, or just dreaming about life under the Big Sky, this space was created for you.

As The Montana Living Strategist™, I bring over 20 years of experience in sustainable design, regenerative systems, and soulful space-making. My approach blends extensive real estate experience, deep knowledge of the southwest Montana market, and skilled negotiation—with soulful strategy, intuitive guidance, a respect for nature, and a commitment to both personal and planetary well-being.

Here, I share insights on:

• Creating healthy spaces that nurture your body and nervous system

• Living with clear energy in homes that hold and heal

• Embracing clean energy and off-grid conscious design

• Designing with regeneration in mind—for land, life, and future generations

• Making intentional real estate choices that align with who you are and support your overall well-being.

If you’re craving a home—or a way of living—that feels aligned, grounded, and whole, you’re in the right place.

Welcome.

With heart,
Theresa Huyser

The 10 Essentials of a Physically Healthy Home

Historically, I’ve always cared deeply about the health of the planet—and all life on it.

It started when I was young, growing up in landlocked Montana, yet completely obsessed with the health of the oceans, whales, and dolphins. That love became a calling—one I’ve carried into adulthood through many twists and turns, always present, always evolving. (Someday, I’ll share that story too.)

So when I stepped into Healthy Home Interiors and sustainable design over 20 years ago, it wasn’t a career shift—it was a natural progression.

Creating homes that nurture the body, respect the earth, and support overall well-being is personal for me. It’s my passion and my purpose.

This list is not a complete checklist—because no single page can cover everything a healthy home needs—but it’s a powerful starting point.

I hope it helps you begin to see your home differently: As a space that nurtures your health, your energy, and your life.

🌿 The 10 Essentials of a Physically Healthy Home

Curated by Theresa Huyser, The Montana Living Strategist™

Your home should do more than look good—it should support your body, energy, and well-being. These 10 core essentials offer a framework for evaluating how healthy a home really is:

1. Clean Indoor Air

2. Non-Toxic Materials

3. Mold & Moisture Management

4. Safe, High-Quality Water

5. Natural Light & Circadian Rhythm Support

6. Peaceful Acoustics & Noise Control

7. Low-EMF Living Zones

8. Radon Awareness & Mitigation

9. Restorative Sleep Spaces

10. Land & Site Alignment

🖤 Want the full breakdown of what to look for and how it applies to homes in Montana? I offer this guide exclusively to my buyer and seller clients—because your well-being matters.

Designing a Regenerative Home in Montana

Montana’s landscapes—towering peaks, wide-open valleys, and crystal-clear rivers—are more than just beautiful backdrops. They’re living systems that inspire a different kind of home design—one that not only fits into its surroundings but actively nurtures them.

A regenerative home goes beyond “sustainable.” While sustainability focuses on reducing harm, regenerative design seeks to give back—to restore ecosystems, support biodiversity, and enhance the well-being of the people who live there.

Here’s how to bring that vision to life under the Big Sky.

1. Start with a Site in Harmony with the Land

A regenerative home begins with careful site selection and orientation. Rather than imposing on the land, the design works with it:

• Positioning the home to take advantage of natural light and wind patterns.

• Preserving native vegetation and wildlife corridors.

• Minimizing grading or disruption to natural drainage.

In Montana, this might mean nestling a home into a slope for shelter from winter winds or situating it for unobstructed views of the mountains without clear-cutting.

2. Build with Native and Local Materials

Using locally sourced and reclaimed materials reduces transportation emissions and keeps the home visually and structurally in tune with its surroundings. Examples include:

• Montana timber for framing and accents.

• Local stone for foundations, fireplaces, and landscaping.

• Reclaimed barn wood for siding or interior finishes.

These materials not only support the local economy but also ensure the home feels authentic to its place.

3. Harness Passive Solar Design

Montana’s sunny climate—especially in winter—makes it ideal for passive solar strategies:

• Orient main living spaces toward the south for maximum sunlight.

• Utilize deep roof overhangs to shield interiors from intense summer sun while allowing low winter sun to warm them.

• Include high-thermal-mass elements (like concrete floors or stone walls) to store and slowly release heat.

This reduces the need for mechanical heating and cooling, lowering both energy bills and environmental impact.

4. Integrate Renewable Energy

Pairing passive strategies with active systems can make a home energy-positive:

• Solar panels for electricity.

• Solar thermal systems for water heating.

• Small-scale wind turbines in appropriate areas.

In Montana’s rural stretches, this can also provide energy independence—a valuable feature for off-grid living.

5. Design for Water Stewardship

Water is a precious resource, even in the state of Montana, also known as the Big Sky State. Regenerative homes incorporate systems to conserve and restore water:

• Rainwater harvesting for irrigation.

• Low-flow fixtures and water-efficient appliances.

• Native landscaping that requires minimal watering.

For properties with creeks or ponds, thoughtful planning helps protect riparian zones and improve water quality.

6. Create Healthy, Nourishing Spaces

A regenerative home nurtures the health of its occupants as much as it supports the environment:

• Non-toxic paints, finishes, and adhesives.

• Abundant natural light and ventilation.

• Flexible indoor-outdoor spaces that invite connection with nature.

Imagine morning yoga on a covered deck, a kitchen garden steps from your door, and interiors filled with the scent of local wood rather than harsh chemicals.

7. Think Generationally

Regenerative design is about legacy—creating a home that will serve future generations, both your family and the wider community. Choosing durable materials, adaptable layouts, and systems that can evolve with new technologies ensures the home’s value extends far beyond its first occupants.

Living Regeneratively in Montana

Designing a regenerative home here isn’t just about building—it’s about belonging. It’s aligning your life with the rhythms of the land, contributing to the health of local ecosystems, and creating a home that’s as restorative for the planet as it is for you.

Suppose you’re ready to find land or a property where a regenerative vision can take shape. In that case, my approach combines strategic real estate expertise with an understanding of conscious, place-based living. Together, we can make your Montana home a model for a thriving future.

Montana Lifestyle: Living Holistically Under the Big Sky

Montana’s sweeping mountain ranges, pristine rivers, and endless skies do more than paint a postcard-perfect picture—they shape a way of life. Here in Southwest Montana, “home” is more than four walls. It’s a place that supports wellness, fosters connection, and aligns with the natural rhythms of the land.

Whether you’re looking to settle in Bozeman, Big Sky, Livingston, or beyond, living holistically under the Big Sky means weaving together nature, community, and mindful choices in every aspect of life.

1. Nature as Your Backyard

One of the greatest gifts of Montana living is direct access to world-class trails, parks, and open spaces. Morning hikes in the Bridger Mountains, weekend fly-fishing on the Madison River, or a quiet evening walk along the Gallatin—these moments are part of the daily rhythm here.

Living close to nature isn’t just about recreation. Studies have shown that regular time spent outdoors can reduce stress, improve sleep, and enhance mental clarity. Many Montanans choose homes that back up to public lands, are near river access points, or have space for gardens and native landscaping—keeping that connection to the land alive every day.

2. From Farm to Table—Right at Home

The farm-to-table movement isn’t a trend in Montana—it’s a way of life. Local farmers’ markets overflow with fresh greens, huckleberries, artisanal cheeses, and grass-fed meats. Many residents grow their food, keep backyard chickens, or trade goods with neighbors.

In communities like Bozeman and Livingston, restaurants source directly from nearby ranches and farms, so you can enjoy meals that are not only delicious but also deeply rooted in the local economy.

For homeowners, this means looking for properties with sunny yards for vegetable gardens, greenhouses to extend the growing season, or outbuildings for small-scale homesteading.

3. Homes That Support Wellness and Sustainability

A holistic Montana home blends beauty with purpose. Many buyers are seeking features that align with sustainability and wellness:

• Natural Light & Views: Expansive windows to bring the outdoors in.

• Energy Efficiency: Solar panels, high-efficiency heating, and well-insulated buildings to handle all four seasons.

• Natural Materials: Locally sourced timber, stone, and reclaimed finishes to create a sense of place.

• Indoor-Outdoor Flow: Patios, covered porches, and fire pits for year-round enjoyment of Montana’s changing skies.

Even smaller design choices—such as air-purifying plants, non-toxic paints, and efficient water systems—can have a significant impact on your health and the environment.

4. Community Connection

Holistic living is also about relationships—knowing your neighbors, supporting local businesses, and participating in community events. Whether it’s volunteering at a local nonprofit, visiting the Bozeman Farmers Market in the summer, or gathering for Music on Main downtown, Montana’s small-town feel encourages a slower, more intentional way of connecting.

5. Finding Your Place Under the Big Sky

Living holistically in Montana means aligning your home and lifestyle with your values—whether that’s morning trail runs, cooking with local ingredients, or building a home that respects the land.

If you’re ready to find a home that supports the way you want to live, my Trail-to-Closing™ approach ensures the journey is both strategic and soulful. Together, we’ll find not just a property, but a place that feels like home in every sense of the word.

Ready to start your Montana chapter?
Let’s talk about your vision for life under the Big Sky and find the property that can make it a reality.

Summer in Bozeman: 10 Activities to Explore

When summer hits Bozeman, the mountains come alive, rivers sparkle under endless blue skies, and the community thrives with outdoor adventures and vibrant events. Whether you’re visiting for the first time, considering a move, or have called Bozeman home for years, summer here is nothing short of magical.

Here are 10 must-do activities to make the most of Bozeman’s warmest months.

1. Hike the “M” Trail at Sunrise

One of Bozeman’s most iconic hikes, the “M” Trail offers sweeping views of the valley. Go early to catch the sunrise lighting up the Bridger Range—it’s a local favorite and a perfect way to start the day.

2. Stroll the Bozeman Farmers’ Market

Held at Lindley Park on Tuesday evenings, the market is a feast for the senses, featuring fresh produce, artisanal bread, local honey, live music, and a lively community vibe. It’s the heart of Bozeman’s farm-to-table lifestyle.

3. Float the Madison River

Grab a tube, some sunscreen, and a few friends for a leisurely float down the Madison. This quintessential Montana summer activity is equal parts relaxing and fun—just be prepared for the occasional water fight.

4. Attend Music on Main

Every Thursday night, downtown Bozeman transforms into an open-air concert venue. Live bands, food vendors, and family-friendly activities make this one of the most anticipated events of the season.

5. Explore Hyalite Canyon

Just a short drive from town, Hyalite Canyon offers waterfalls, hiking trails, and fishing spots. Palisade Falls is a quick, scenic hike perfect for an afternoon outing.

6. Take a Day Trip to Yellowstone National Park

Less than two hours away, Yellowstone’s north entrance is easy to reach for a day of wildlife watching, geothermal wonders, and picnic lunches in stunning scenery.

7. Sip Local at a Bozeman Brewery

Summer patios are in full swing, and Bozeman’s brewery scene is thriving. From crisp IPAs to seasonal sours, there’s a pint for every palate. Favorites include MAP Brewing with its lakefront views and Bridger Brewing’s bustling downtown patio.

8. Bike the Gallagator Trail

This in-town trail connects parks, art installations, and the Bozeman Sculpture Park. It’s perfect for a casual ride or a morning jog before coffee.

9. Attend the Sweet Pea Festival

Bozeman’s signature summer arts festival brings three days of music, dance, art, and food to Lindley Park in early August. It’s a celebration of creativity and community.

10. Catch an Outdoor Movie

Pack a blanket and head to one of Bozeman’s outdoor movie nights. Watching a classic film under the Montana stars is the perfect way to wind down a summer evening.

Why Summer Here Feels Like Home

Bozeman’s summer is about more than events and outdoor adventures—it’s about the sense of connection that comes with living in a place where people genuinely enjoy the season together. For those considering a move, summer presents an opportunity to experience the community’s energy, scenic beauty, and laid-back, adventurous lifestyle.

If you’re thinking about making Bozeman your home, I’d be happy to guide you through neighborhoods, market trends, and properties that put you in the heart of everything this vibrant town has to offer.

Ready to explore Bozeman beyond just a summer visit?
Let’s find you a home where adventure begins right outside your door.

Embracing Clean Energy and Off-Grid Conscious Design in Montana

Under Montana’s vast Big Sky, it’s easy to feel connected to nature—and for many homeowners, that connection extends to the way they power and design their homes. Clean energy and off-grid living aren’t just for remote cabins anymore. They’re becoming a conscious choice for those who want to live in harmony with the land, reduce environmental impact, and embrace self-reliance.

Why Montana Is Perfect for Clean Energy Living

Montana’s landscape offers unique advantages for renewable energy:

• Abundant Sunlight – Especially in southwest Montana, solar panels can perform exceptionally well year-round, even with snowy winters.

• Wind Resources – Many open areas offer strong, consistent winds ideal for small-scale wind turbines.

• Water Potential – Properties near creeks or rivers may be candidates for micro-hydro power systems.

With the right design and technology, a Montana home can operate largely or entirely on renewable energy sources—cutting utility bills and reducing its carbon footprint in the process.

Off-Grid Conscious Design: More Than Just Power

Living “off-grid” is about more than producing your electricity—it’s about designing a home that naturally requires less energy and works with the environment instead of against it.

Key Elements of Conscious Off-Grid Design:

1. Passive Solar Orientation – Positioning the home to maximize winter sun and minimize summer heat.

2. Thermal Mass Materials – Using stone, adobe, or concrete to store and slowly release heat.

3. High-Performance Insulation & Windows – Keeping warmth in during winter and cool air in during summer.

4. Rainwater Collection & Greywater Systems – Reducing Reliance on Municipal Water.

5. Natural Ventilation & Cooling – Designing airflow patterns to eliminate the need for constant A/C.

Blending Modern Comfort with Sustainability

Contrary to the rustic image of “off-grid cabins,” today’s regenerative homes can be both beautiful and highly functional. Features like smart home energy monitors, battery storage, and efficient appliances make living off-grid comfortable and convenient—without sacrificing style or convenience.

Many Montana buyers are seeking:

• Homes with pre-installed solar systems.

• Acreage for future energy projects.

• Designs that balance open views with energy efficiency.

Finding or Building Your Off-Grid Montana Home

Whether you’re searching for an existing property with clean energy systems or planning to build your dream regenerative retreat, location matters; factors like sun exposure, water access, and zoning regulations all play a role in the success of an off-grid lifestyle.

As a local real estate guide, I help clients identify properties where sustainability and comfort intersect—whether that’s a solar-ready lot in the Gallatin Valley or an entirely off-grid home in the mountains.

Spring Cleaning, Montana-Style: A Holistic Approach to Refreshing Your Home

When spring arrives in Montana, it’s more than a season—it’s an energy shift. Snowmelt feeds the rivers, trails begin to open, and longer days invite fresh starts. But spring also brings its own set of challenges for our homes—mud tracked in from melting roads and driveways, dust from dry winds, and the aftereffects of a long winter spent indoors.

A holistic approach to spring cleaning goes beyond scrubbing surfaces—it’s about creating a healthy, uplifting environment that supports your well-being and honors the place you call home.

1. Tackle the Mud and Dust Head-On

Mud Season is a real thing in Montana. As snow melts, dirt paths, gravel driveways, and even city streets can become messy.

• Entryway reset: Lay down washable rugs, set up a boot tray, and keep a natural-bristle brush handy to clean footwear before it crosses the threshold.

• Dust control: Dry winds in spring carry fine dust from roads and fields. Use a damp microfiber cloth for surfaces and a HEPA vacuum to capture particles without redistributing them.

2. Refresh Your Indoor Air

After months of closed windows, fresh air is a must—but so is filtering it.

• Open windows during warm, low-pollen hours to flush out stale air.

• Replace HVAC and air purifier filters to remove winter dust and allergens.

• Add houseplants like spider plants or peace lilies for natural air cleansing.

3. Use Non-Toxic, Eco-Friendly Cleaners

Protect your indoor air and Montana’s waterways by choosing gentle, biodegradable products.

• Make an all-purpose cleaner with vinegar, water, and lemon essential oil.

• Use baking soda to scrub sinks, tubs, and ovens without harsh fumes.

• Opt for refillable cleaning bottles to reduce your use of single-use plastics.

4. Deep-Clean with the Seasons in Mind

Montana’s seasonal extremes mean your home faces unique wear and tear.

• Wash windows to remove winter grime and maximize the amount of sunlight.

• Rotate and clean rugs to remove dirt tracked in during winter.

• Check gutters for debris before spring rains begin.

5. Declutter for a Lighter Summer

Spring cleaning is the perfect time to simplify your space.

• Donate your unused winter clothing.

• Reorganize gear closets to make summer equipment (hiking packs, fishing poles) more accessible.

• Store seasonal décor in labeled, reusable containers for easy swaps.

6. Make it a Mindful Practice

Holistic cleaning is about more than a spotless home—it’s about restoring balance.

• Play music, open windows, and invite natural light into each space you clean.

• Take breaks to enjoy the outdoors between tasks.

• End your cleaning session with a fresh bouquet of wildflowers or a calming essential oil diffuser blend.

Living Fresh Under the Big Sky

In Montana, our homes are extensions of the landscape—places where we gather after a day outside, watch the seasons change, and find comfort. By approaching spring cleaning holistically, you’re not just tidying up—you’re creating a home that reflects and supports the natural beauty and rhythm of life under the Big Sky.

Trail Access Living: Finding a Montana Home with the Outdoors at Your Doorstep

For many people drawn to Montana, the dream isn’t just a beautiful house—it’s a lifestyle where adventure starts the moment you step outside. Imagine waking up to the smell of pine, sipping coffee on your porch, and then lacing up your hiking boots for a morning trek without ever getting in the car.

That’s the magic of trail access living in Montana.

Why Trail Access Matters

Living near trails offers more than convenience. It’s about weaving nature into your daily rhythm:

• Morning trail runs with sunrise over the Bridger Range.

• Evening walks to clear your mind after work.

• Family bike rides that start right from your driveway.

For buyers, homes with nearby trail access can hold strong long-term value—these locations are often in high demand among both locals and newcomers.

Top Montana Areas for Trail Access Living

Bozeman – A trail lover’s paradise. The Gallagator Trail connects right into town, while the “M” Trail and Drinking Horse are quick drives for more challenging hikes.

Big Sky – Trails wind through forests and meadows, many of which offer ski access in winter and hiking or mountain biking opportunities in summer.

Livingston – Gateway to Yellowstone with river paths and mountain trails within minutes.

Three Forks & Belgrade – More rural, but often close to lesser-known paths along rivers, rolling hills, and public lands.

Features to Look For in a Trail-Access Property

When searching for your perfect Montana trail home, consider:

• Proximity: How close is the trailhead? Walkable or bikeable distance adds real value.

• Variety: Are there options for hiking, biking, skiing, or fishing nearby?

• Seasonal Access: Some trails may be inaccessible during deep winter—please inquire about year-round usability.

• HOA or Easements: Understand rules for private trail use or shared access agreements.

The Wellness Connection

Living near trails supports both physical and mental health:

• Encourages daily activity without the extra drive time.

• Reduces stress through regular time in nature.

• Strengthens community bonds—neighbors often meet while out on the trail.

It’s the perfect blend of Montana’s rugged beauty and a balanced, intentional lifestyle.

Finding Your Trailhead Home

Trail access living is as much about the journey as the destination. Whether it’s a log cabin tucked into the forest, a contemporary home at the edge of a meadow, or a downtown Bozeman bungalow steps from a path, your home can be a gateway to Montana’s great outdoors.

Eating Holistically in Montana: Nourishment Under the Big Sky

Montana living is about more than wide-open spaces and fresh mountain air—it’s also about the food we put on our tables. Here, eating holistically isn’t a trend; it’s a way of life, deeply connected to the land, the seasons, and the community.

From farm-fresh produce to grass-fed meats and wild-foraged delicacies, Montana offers a bounty for those who want to nourish themselves in a mindful, sustainable way.

What Does Eating Holistically Mean?

Eating holistically is about considering not just what you eat, but how it’s grown, sourced, and prepared. It focuses on:

• Fresh, local, seasonal ingredients.

• Minimizing processed and packaged foods.

• Supporting farmers, ranchers, and food artisans in your community.

• Eating in balance with nature’s rhythms.

In Montana, this often means food with a direct story—grown in your county, harvested by someone you know, or sold at a farmers’ market stall.

Where to Find Holistic Food in Montana

1. Farmers’ Markets
From Bozeman’s vibrant summer market to smaller weekly gatherings in Livingston, Belgrade, and Three Forks, farmers’ markets are the heartbeat of Montana’s local food scene. Here, you’ll find:

• Organic greens harvested that morning.

• Fresh-baked sourdough loaves.

• Honey from hives just down the road.

2. Community Supported Agriculture (CSA)
Joining a CSA gives you a weekly or bi-weekly box of seasonal produce—and a direct relationship with the farmer who grows your food.

3. Farm-to-Table Restaurants
Montana’s culinary scene is embracing local sourcing. Many restaurants change menus weekly to showcase what’s fresh from nearby farms and ranches.

4. Foraging and Hunting
Wild huckleberries, chanterelle mushrooms, morel mushrooms, elk, and venison—all part of Montana’s food heritage when done responsibly and sustainably.

Designing a Kitchen for Holistic Living

If you’re buying or remodeling a home in Montana, your kitchen can support your holistic eating goals:

• Ample storage for bulk grains, root vegetables, and home-canned goods.

• Dedicated prep spaces for fermenting, baking, or preserving.

• Outdoor cooking areas for grilling or wood-fired pizza nights with friends.

• Composting systems to reduce food waste and give back to your garden.

The Bigger Picture: Food, Home, and Community

Eating holistically connects you to the land and the people who care for it. It means your dollar supports local agriculture, your meals reflect the seasons, and your health benefits from fresh, nutrient-rich food.

For many people moving to Montana, access to this lifestyle is as important as the home itself. That’s why I help clients find properties with space for gardens, proximity to markets, and the kind of kitchen that turns cooking into a joyful, nourishing ritual.