Realtors say that Missoula, Montana is located in one of the most beautiful areas of the world, with lots of opportunities for outdoor activities.

"Missoula is a great little city in one of the most beautiful areas in the world," says Realtor Henry Silverio. "Surrounded by mountains and located only three hours from Glacier National Park, this area has it all when it comes to natural beauty and outdoor activities. Hiking, skiing, horseback riding, snow mobiling, kayaking, white water rafting, fly fishing, hunting, and camping are just a few that come to mind - a great place to raise a family and a great place to retire."

Silverio advises, "To say the Missoula real estate market has been busy would be an understatement. Homes are selling fast and many sell before they make it to market. Prices are rising steadily. Given the population growth rate of this city, housing prices will probably continue to rise. There are, however, some pretty good deals available from time to time but you have to move fast. The areas surrounding Missoula offer short commutes and much lower prices and taxes."

Nearby Stevensville is located in Ravalli County 28 miles south of Missoula between Hamilton and Lolo along Highway 93 on the banks of the Bitterroot River near Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge. Flanked by the Bitterroot and Sapphire mountains, this small, historic town in the Bitterroot Valley offers beautiful views, outdoor recreation and watchable wildlife, says Silverio.

"Stevensville is hot," he says. "Westside properties don't last long and there are not very many of them. Scarcity is definitely an issue. Prices are lower on the eastside and there are more properties available but they don't last long. Stevensville is becoming more and more popular with people who work in Missoula due to the easy commute and Bitterroot Valley lifestyle. Stevensville is without a doubt one of the best places to invest in real estate in Montana."

Says Realtor John Cole, "The market in the Bitterroot Valley is escalating at around 10 percent a year for the last three years, and more in some areas. We are a beautiful destination point for people escaping the big city. Open country is much valued and escalating at a better rate. We have a great market up to $200,000, but real bargains are in the $200,000 - $400,000 range."