Buying Land in Alaska: Stake Your Claim Without Making a Mistake

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Recently, our family was gifted a Monopoly game, but not the classic one we all grew up playing. This was a recently released “Alaskan Version” of the original real estate board game. The names on the board all had Alaskan-themed streets, places, and events. For instance, instead of Park Place, Pennsylvania Avenue, and Reading Railroad, the names of places and things are those that are uniquely Alaskan like Denali, Kachemak Bay, and the Permanent Fund.

While I was playing the game, I couldn’t help but remember the famous Mark Twain quote, “Buy land, they’re not making it anymore”. In Monopoly, players compete to purchase real estate then put buildings on the land and build hotels to generate rental income. The goal of the game is to own as much property as possible and charge rent to other people when they land on a property that you own. The game is a balance between keeping money in the bank and owning as much real estate as you can.

In the game, the properties that players can purchase are limited in number, just like in the real world. As players buy up properties and develop them, the availability of land on the board becomes scarce, driving up the price of the remaining properties. This reflects the real-world concept of supply and demand, where limited resources become more valuable as they become scarcer.

So, in both the Monopoly game and in real life, the idea that “they’re not making land anymore” is a crucial concept that affects the value of land and its role in building wealth.

In Alaska, being the largest State of the 50 United States, there is a lot of land, however access to much of the state is limited to the road system or rail belt system. Some property may not be all that far off the road, but only accessible seasonally by airplane, recreational vehicles, or in the winter by snow machine. Ease of access would certainly impact the value of the property, meaning if you can drive your car to your land year round, the land is going to be worth more than if you only can get to it in the summertime.

However, like any other investment, there are risks associated with investing in land.  Raw land generally doesn’t have income, especially if you buy it outside of town. It’s more of a buy in the path of growth, hold it and sell when you feel the time is right. Part of any purchase should consider the availability of water and soil conditions. If the property is zoned for a particular use, a buyer should confirm the zoning works for them.

Purchasing any kind of real estate takes careful consideration, research, and planning. Having a few years of experience under your belt doesn’t hurt either. That’s why the Wolf Team is here! We can provide you with over 75 years of combined experience buying and selling all kinds of real estate and we are eager to answer any questions you might have about real estate in Alaska.

To get in touch with us just click the contact us button at the top of this page to call or email us directly. We can’t wait to talk Alaskan real estate with you!

The Three-Legged Stool of Personal Finance

The “Three-Legged Stool” is a commonly used metaphor in personal finance referring to three primary sources of retirement income. Diversifying retirement savings helps to increase your earning ability for the future and stabilize your wealth. This stability is akin to a three-legged stool.

Many people save for retirement by way of a personal savings account and participate in an employee pension plan or traditional retirement account (Roth IRA, IRA, or Keogh). Many people also enjoy the benefits of owning a real estate investment property as another source of growing their personal financial independence and security.

Here are a few potential benefits of owning an investment property.

• Appreciation: Historically, real estate has appreciated in value over time, meaning that your property will likely be worth more in the future than what you paid for it.

• Cash Flow: You have the option of renting out your property so you can receive rental income which provides a steady cash flow.

• Tax Benefits: Owning real estate can offer tax benefits like mortgage interest deductions, property tax deductions, and depreciation deductions if you do rent out the property.

• Equity: As you pay off your mortgage over time you build equity. Equity can be used for future investments or as a source of funds in case of emergencies. The loan can be paid with the money you earn from tenants.

• Control: Owning real estate gives you more control over your living space and allows you to make changes to your property as you see fit because you are independent from a landlord.

• Inflation Hedge: Real estate can serve as a safeguard against inflation. As the cost-of-living increases, so do rents and property values.

• Pride of Ownership: Owning a home can give you a sense of pride and accomplishment and provide a stable place to raise a family.

• Leverage: Real estate can be purchased with leverage, meaning that you can finance a large portion of the purchase with a mortgage loan. Getting a loan allows you to buy a more expensive property than you could afford to pay for in cash.

Of course, there are also potential downsides to owning real estate, such as maintenance costs, vacancy risk (with rentals), and the potential for market declines. For these reasons, it’s important to carefully consider your options and do your research before making any investment decisions.
If you are considering a real estate purchase of your own let us help! Our friendly and knowledgeable team is standing by to answer questions and get you one step closer to a secure financial future. Click the contact me button at the top of this page or give us a call at (907) 248-9653 today!

Rent or Buy: Which is Best for You and Why?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Taking the leap into purchasing your own home is a big deal. It takes a lot of consideration, planning, and is likely the largest purchase you have ever made. Although it can be an intimidating idea there are several reasons why purchasing a home in Anchorage or Eagle River can be a better option than renting.

  1. You build equity: When you buy a home, you build equity with each mortgage payment, until you eventually own the property outright. Buying a home is an investment in your own future wealth. When you rent, you do not build any equity in the property you occupy.
  2. Your housing costs are more stable: Rental costs can increase over time and are subject to changes in the economy and the whims of your landlord. However, a fixed-rate mortgage provides stable housing costs for the life of the loan. The only element of a fixed rate mortgage that is subject to change over time is the property taxes.
  3. There is potential for appreciation: The value of a property generally increases over time. This appreciation leads to a potential financial gain when the property is sold.
  4. You have access to tax benefits: Homeowners may be eligible for tax deductions on mortgage interest and property taxes.  Rent does not offer these same tax benefits.
  5. You gain a sense of community and personal freedom: Owning a home can provide a sense of stability and pride. You can personalize and make changes to the property without checking with your landlord or worrying about your rental deposit. It is also likely that you will stay in your purchased home much longer than you would stay in a rental. Being in one place for an extended period allows you to know your neighbors and invest in your local community.
  6. Investment opportunity: Real estate can be a fantastic investment. Not only will your property appreciate over time, but you can choose to rent the property when you move out. Renting a property can provide a stable monthly income.

 

Of course, there are also potential downsides to home ownership. You will incur maintenance costs, there may be less flexibility when you choose to move, and the financial risk if the value of the property decreases will fall on you as the owner. Although there is more responsibility taken on when purchasing a property, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks.

Your friendly Wolf Real Estate Professional can help guide you through any home-buying scenario. Click the Contact Us button at the top of this page to get in touch with one of our agents today! We can’t wait to guide you through your next real estate adventure!

Spring is here, and with it, one of the best times to buy and sell real estate in Alaska!

This time of year, many people are asking the team at Wolf Real Estate to look at their property and tell them what they can do to make their home show better and be more marketable. The Anchorage real estate market is more seasonal than many ‘lower 48’ markets because Alaskan winters bring limited daylight hours. The lack of daylight shortens the window for buyers to view homes and makes it a bit harder to get good photos.

Alaskan customers often ask us for our opinion on the best time of year to sell their property. We generally tell them that earlier in the season is the prime-time to sell in Anchorage, Eagle River, Chugiak, and the Matanuska-Susitna Valley. This is the best time to sell because buyers have been cooped up all winter with short days and snowy winter weather. They have had friends and family in their homes through the holiday season, had to move furniture for decorations and guests, and are starting to think they want a bit more space. Additionally, after two years of covid, more people are working or attending school from home and finding that they might benefit from a different layout.

The seasonal nature of the real estate market in Alaska means there are very few homes on the market between late November and March. During this time families with children are generally committed to a stiff routine until the school year ends in May. People often put their homes on the market to sell in late March or early April, so they have time to sell, close, and move when the school year is over. The closer to summer you list, the more homes hit the market simply because it’s easier to move in the summer, the daylight hours never stop, and families don’t have the restraints of a school schedule.

It is going to be an interesting spring! We keep seeing national stories of a slower market especially in larger urban cities. Remember that real estate is local. You can’t apply too much of what you hear on national news to your hometown market. As of this writing in March, the inventory of homes is low but growing across the board in the communities we serve: Anchorage, Eagle River, Girdwood, Chugiak, and the greater Matanuska-Susitna Valley communities of Palmer and Wasilla. As the market continues to pick up The Wolf Team is here to guide you and help you get the most out of your real estate transaction, no matter the season.

Click the CONTACT US button at the top of this page to get in touch with one of our friendly and knowledgeable agents today!

Mortgage Financing Alternatives

In late 2022, the Fed began to increase mortgage interest rates. These increases have led Anchorage lenders to offer some alternatives to the traditional 30-year fixed-rate mortgage. An adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) is one in which the interest rate on the loan changes periodically based on market interest rates. Examples of conservative and safe Adjustable-Rate Mortgages (ARMs) include:
  • 5/1 ARM: This type of ARM has a fixed interest rate for the first 5 years and then adjusts annually. The interest rate is typically capped, limiting how much it can increase.
  • 7/1 ARM: Like the 5/1 ARM, this type has a fixed interest rate for the first 7 years before adjusting annually.
  • 10/1 ARM: This type has a fixed interest rate for the first 10 years before adjusting annually.
These types of ARMs tend to be considered safer as they have a longer initial fixed-rate period. A longer fixed rate period provides more stability and predictability in monthly payments. Additionally, they often have interest rate caps, which limit the amount the interest rate can adjust, providing additional protection to borrowers. It’s important to note that while ARMs with longer fixed-rate periods and interest rate caps may be considered safer, they still come with the risk of future rate adjustments, and the amount of the monthly payment can still change. The main reasons to consider an ARM include:
  • Lower initial interest rate and monthly payments than a fixed-rate mortgage
  • Opportunity for lower rates if market rates decrease
  • Better for borrowers who don’t plan to keep the loan long-term
  • May qualify for a larger loan amount due to lower initial payments
On average, people move homes every 5 years. That means the loan they obtained originally is paid off and they get a new loan on the next home they buy. If you had a 5-year or longer adjustable-rate loan, and moved within 5 years, it would not have changed from when you first took the loan. Since there are safe alternatives to the traditional 30 year loan, you may want to reconsider your primary residence or second home based on alternative financing that may differ from your last loan. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to the team here at Wolf Real Estate, your professional friends in Alaska Real Estate business! Click the contact us button at the top of this page to connect with an agent today!

Three Best Rated: The Wolf Team!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

It is an absolute honor to accept this award for excellence on behalf of Wolf Real Estate Professionals! We are humbled and grateful to receive this recognition for our customer reviews, ratings, history, satisfaction, and general excellence. We believe that these are the pillars upon which any successful business is built and it is a testament to our commitment to these values.

We take great pride in the fact that our customers have consistently rated us highly and left glowing reviews of our products and services. Their feedback has been invaluable in helping us improve our offerings and deliver a better experience to each and every one of our valued customers. This award is a validation of our efforts and motivates us to continue raising the bar for excellence in the real estate industry in Alaska!  We thank our customers for their trust and loyalty, and we pledge to continue earning it every day.

“When is the best time of the year to sell my home?”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The real estate market in Alaska is more seasonal than in many places. Short daylight hours and snowy weather slow our market during the winter months, but houses do sell year-round. Of course, the best time to sell your home is when you’re ready. But, if you can manage to have your property listed in the spring or summer months, they tend to be the busiest for real estate sales.

Because spring and summer are hottest for real estate sales, February and March are great months to prepare to sell. You can give your home a fresh look by decluttering and deep cleaning. These processes make rooms look more spacious and welcoming to potential buyers. Consider painting interior walls with a fresh neutral color and replacing worn or dated flooring.

Daylight hours are shortest in December which makes it harder for buyers to see homes after work. During February and March daylight hours increase rapidly, most noticeably when Daylight Savings Time hits on March 12th. March is an excellent time to have your property on the market not only because the days are longer but also because many buyers want to change houses early in the year. Typically there aren’t as many Anchorage homes or townhomes on the market as there will be in summer. The lower inventory of competing properties could make your market time shorter in the spring.

Another reason to sell your home in the spring is to accommodate families with school aged children. It’s more difficult for a family to move during the busy school year. The timing of an average transaction is roughly 60 days, which means if you sell in March, you should have a closing date in May. Not to mention, moving amid winter weather can be tough logistically whether you have kids or not. Moving in the summer months will ease the process for you and your buyers.

The Wolf Team has years of experience timing home sales and guiding families as they shift between homes. As your local real estate agent, we can help you prepare your home for sale and suggest a competitive price that will make it stand out from the competition. We can cover all the details as soon as you’re ready! Click the contact us button at the top of this page to get in touch with one of our friendly and knowledgeable agents!

8 Strategies to Make Your Home Offer Stand Out in a Multiple Offers Situation

You’ve finally found a home that works for you! Then you learn the seller has already received other offers. If you still want to make an offer it is essential to make it stand out from the rest. You never know what the seller’s motivation is or what the other offers are so it’s best to make as competitive an offer as you are comfortable with.

Here are some strategies you can use to make your offer more appealing to sellers:

Offer a Higher Price: This is the most obvious way to make your offer stand out. Consider offering more than the asking price if you have the financial means to do so. However, make sure you don’t go over your budget, and don’t make an offer that’s significantly higher than the home’s market value.

Increase the Earnest Money Deposit: Consider increasing the amount of earnest money  you’re willing to put down. A higher deposit shows the seller that you’re serious about buying the home and you have more skin in the game.

Be Flexible with Closing Dates: Be flexible with your closing date and offer to work with the seller’s timeline. If they need more time to move out, for example, offer to extend the closing date to accommodate their needs.

Limit Contingencies: Contingencies protect buyers, but they can also make sellers nervous because they introduce uncertainty into the transaction. Consider limiting the number of contingencies in your offer to make it more secure for the seller.

Offer Cash If Possible:  You can always refinance after you close to get most of your cash back out. We’ve all heard the saying “Cash is King”, and a cash offer will often trump offers with traditional financing.

Home Inspection: Say your purchase will be “As-Is” or that your home inspection repair request will be limited to Life and Safety items only. This limits the amount of repairs the seller will be required to perform and can speed up the process for both parties.

Appraisal Contingency: Offer to pay a set price regardless of the outcome of the lender’s appraisal. An alternative is to say you will pay a certain dollar amount over the appraisal should it come back lower than the original sales price.

Write a Personal Letter: Writing a personal letter to the seller can be a great way to connect with them on a more emotional level. Let them know why you love their home and how you envision your family living there. A personal letter can make your offer stand out from the others and show the seller that you’re a serious and committed buyer.

Each situation is unique, and what works for one seller may not work for another.  These are strategies we have seen work in Anchorage real estate and are suggested based on real estate practices in the local market. Be sure to work with your Wolf Real Estate agent to develop a strategy that will help you stand out and win the bidding war. To connect with one of our agents today just click the “Contact Us” button at the top of this page – we can’t wait to meet you!

Multiple Offers – 7 Best Practices for Listing Agents to Follow in the Face of Multiple Offers

Receiving multiple offers on a property sale can be a challenging but exciting situation for a real estate agent. Here are some tips on how to handle multiple offers as an agent in Alaska.

Communicate clearly: Keep all parties in the loop by communicating regularly and transparently. Let all buyers know that you are dealing with multiple offers and provide them with a timeline for making their offer and/or an opportunity to improve an existing offer.

Evaluate each offer: Evaluate each offer carefully, considering factors such as offered sales price, financing terms, closing costs, and any offer contingencies. Look for any red flags or potential issues that could cause problems later in the transaction.

Present all offers to the seller: Present all offers to the seller and provide them with a detailed analysis of each one, including pros and cons. Many times, the strength of an offer comes from details un-related to the price the buyer is willing to pay.

Advise the seller: Provide advice and guidance to the seller but ultimately let them make the final decision. Make sure they understand the implications of each offer and the potential risks and rewards of accepting or rejecting an offer.

Encourage backup offers: Encourage backup offers in case the primary offer falls through. This will help to keep the seller’s options open and ensure that the property remains on the market until the sale is finalized. Life happens and it’s not over until the transaction is closed!

Stay organized: Keep track of all offers and follow up with each buyer’s agent in a timely manner. Make sure all paperwork and documentation is in order and that all parties are meeting their deadlines and obligations.

Be fair and ethical: Ensure that all buyers and their agents are treated fairly and ethically throughout the process, and that all offers are evaluated objectively and without bias. Avoid any conflicts of interest and maintain a high level of professionalism at all times. Communicate the same information to all parties so everyone is on the same page. Be sure all aspects of all offers are in writing so there are no misunderstandings.

The Anchorage Multiple Listing Service (commonly called MLS) provides and recommends forms such as the Multiple Offer Notification to all agents once it is obvious there will be more than one offer. This way agents and buyers can see, in writing, how offers will be handled and have a timeline for their responses. The market is still strong in Anchorage and understanding how to navigate a multiple offers situation will ensure you can provide the best advice and service to your clients.

Northern Lights and Arctic Thrills: Unforgettable Winter Experiences in Alaska

In my opinion, Alaska winter fun really kicks in mid-February and remains good all through March. I say this a veteran of many winters in the Anchorage and greater Matanuska-Susitna Valley.  In mid-February the days are getting longer so one can experience a decently long day in the outdoors. There are more occasions of sun and blue sky after what are normally gray, drab, winter skies in December and January. During this time there are fun things happening every week! Below are some of the larger annual spring events Alaskans look forward to.

The Alaska Fur Rendezvous, also known as Fur Rondy, is an annual winter festival (like a fair spread out around the town) that takes place in Anchorage. It is a 10-day event that occurs in late February and early March. This year, 2023, there are daily events from February 23rd through March 5th. The “Rondy” is a unique annual event held since 1935.

The festival was originally started to celebrate Alaska’s fur trade and the role it played in the state’s history and economy. Today, the Fur Rondy has grown into a large event that includes a variety of activities such as snowshoe softball, a frostbite footrace, sled dog races, a fur auction where Alaska fur trappers bring their furs to sell, and the ceremonial start of the Iditarod Sled Dog Race. There are also events such as a carnival, parade, and an ice sculpture contest!

A popular event for locals and tourists alike, the Alaska Fur Rendezvous is an important cultural event for the city of Anchorage and Alaska as a whole. An exciting and unique event that draws visitors from around the world, Rondy creates a festive atmosphere and offers a chance to experience the unique Alaskan winter culture, and also provides entertainment and outdoor activities for all ages.

            

The Iron Dog Race is done on snow machines, which locals often call sleds. This race is held annually in Alaska just before the Iditarod Sled Dog Race. It is known as the “World’s Longest, Toughest Snowmobile Race” and covers over 2,000 miles of Alaska’s most rugged terrain. The race usually starts on the first Saturday of February and takes racers from Anchorage to Nome and then back to Fairbanks.

The race is a test of endurance, skill, and teamwork as teams of two traverse some of Alaska’s most challenging winter landscapes, including mountains, frozen rivers, and tundra. Along the way, racers must contend with harsh conditions, like extreme cold, high winds, and snowstorms.

The Iron Dog Race began in 1984 and has since become a beloved event in Alaska, drawing participants and spectators from around the world. The race has been credited with helping to promote snowmachining as a sport and boost tourism in Alaska.

               

The Iditabike is a long-distance bicycle race. It is considered one of the toughest winter bike races in the world, covering more than 1,000 miles of remote Alaskan wilderness! The race follows the historic Iditarod Trail, which was once used by dog mushers to transport supplies to remote Alaskan communities during the winter. The race typically starts on Knik Lake, just outside of Anchorage, and ends in Nome.

Participants in the Iditabike must be self-sufficient and carry all their food, clothing, and other gear with them. They face extreme temperatures, high winds, and deep snow, making the race a true test of endurance and survival skills. The race can take anywhere from a few days to over a week to complete depending on the conditions and the skill level of the riders.

The Iditabike was first held in 1987 and has since become a popular event among adventurous cyclists looking for a unique challenge. The race has inspired other winter bike races around the world and has helped to popularize fat-tire bikes, which are specially designed for riding in snow and other challenging winter conditions.

           

These are just a few of the major uniquely Alaskan sporting events to watch early in the year. Most Alaskan’s look forward to getting outside and participate in various outdoor activities such as fat tire biking, hiking, ice fishing, cross-country skiing, downhill skiing, back country skiing (telemark), and ice climbing.

If you’ve got the winter blues or just need a change of pace, check out one of these special Alaskan events. Each one is sure to bring a smile to your face and a little sunshine into these long winter months.

Military Personnel: Do you have orders to JBER Alaska? The Wolf Team can help you get settled!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JBER (Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson) is a military base located adjacent to north Anchorage and just 10 minutes away from the more rural communities of Eagle River and Chugiak. It serves as a hub for military operations and training in the Pacific region and provides essential support to the U.S. military’s mission in Alaska and the greater Asia-Pacific region.

This joint base combines two previously separate military installations, Elmendorf Air Force Base and Fort Richardson Army base. It houses a variety of military organizations and plays a crucial role in supporting national defense efforts. JBER provides operational, training, and logistical support to various military missions. Additionally, the base’s location in Alaska provides a strategic advantage for the U.S. military in the Pacific region, allowing for rapid response to emerging threats in the area. JBER is a vital component of the U.S. military’s presence in Alaska and the Asia-Pacific region.

The area surrounding JBER consists of North Anchorage and the nearby towns of Eagle River, Chugiak, Palmer, and Wasilla. Plenty of indoor and outdoor activities are available close by such as hiking, biking, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing in Chugach state park, the third-largest state park in the U.S. There are also several theaters in the area, a large shopping center, and even shooting ranges that offer sporting clay and skeet shooting. These close communities offer military personnel and their families a variety of off-base housing and recreational options allowing them to live, work, and play in a supportive and engaging environment.

Several team members of Wolf Real Estate have completed training and classes to earn the National Association of Realtors’ military specific designation of Military Relocation Professional (MRP) and have solid experience assisting military families.

If you are a member of the U.S. Military and need advice, information, or help relocating to or from Alaska we can help! Click “Contact Us” at the top of this page to get in touch with one of our agents today. We thank you for your service and look forward to hearing from you.

Pros & Cons of Living in Alaska

 

 

 

Wherever you live there are highlights and drawbacks which are unique to that location, Alaska is no different. From endless summer nights to living on a fault line, Alaska has its own set of pros and cons which we all have to consider when living in the Greatland!

 

 

Pros:

  • Natural Beauty: Anchorage is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and is close to mountains, glaciers, lakes, and wide-open spaces.
  • Outdoor Activities: The city offers a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities such as hiking, camping, hunting, fishing, skiing, both downhill and cross-country, snowboarding, and biking.
  • Strong Economy: Anchorage has a thriving economy based in oil, tourism, and transportation, providing a wealth of job opportunities.
  • Cultural Diversity: Anchorage is home to people of many cultures, making it one of the most diverse cities of its size in the nation.
  • Low Crime Rate: Anchorage has a lower crime rate per capita when compared to other cities of similar populations in the US.

       

Cons:

  • High Cost of Living: Anchorage is known for having a higher cost of living than other US cities, this includes housing and other necessities such as groceries and vehicle purchases.
  • Cold Weather: Anchorage has long, dark, cold winters which can be difficult for those coming from sunnier climates.
  • Isolation: Anchorage is more physically isolated from other cities than those in the lower 48 states. This physical distance can lead to a sense of loneliness for some people.
  • Limited Road Access: Anchorage is not directly connected to the rest of the United States by road, which can make travel and shipping more difficult.
  • Natural Disasters: Anchorage is located in an area prone to earthquakes, possible volcanic eruptions, and other natural disasters, which can be concerning for some.

       

In short, life is an adventure and Alaska is a place for hardy people who are determined to enjoy their time here and enjoy the discovery of new circumstances and surroundings.

How reliable is a Zillow Zestimate?

 

If you’re here looking for information on buying or selling a home chances are high you’ve heard of Zillow. Zillow is a commonly used real estate website that, among other things, estimates the value of a home using an algorithm called the Zillow Home Value Index, commonly called a “Zestimate”.

A wide range of factors are taken into account by the algorithm, including:

-The area’s most recent home sales: Zillow finds data from recent sales in the neighborhood which are comparable to the home in question. It uses this information to estimate a price for that house.

-Location: A home’s value is heavily influenced by its location. The value of a home will typically be higher in areas with excellent schools or desirable amenities nearby.

-The home’s age and size: When determining a home’s value, other factors to consider include the year the home was built and its square footage. Homes that are larger and newer tend to be valued higher than homes that are smaller and older.

-Amenities: Zillow considers any unique features of your home, like a garage, pool, or large backyard.

To estimate the home’s value, the Zillow algorithm also makes use of information from public records like property tax assessments. Zillow also uses street-level and aerial photographs to make assessments. Actual sale prices from the Alaska Multiple Listing Service (MLS) are not reported to the municipal authorities in Anchorage so often public records are behind the real market.

It is important to keep in mind that Zillow’s estimates of a home’s value are just that: estimates. They are not a substitute for a real estate agent’s valuation or a professional home appraisal. They are a good place to start when trying to figure out how much a house is worth, but in the end, the home’s market value will be determined by how much buyers are willing to pay for it. Meeting with a Wolf Real Estate team-member for a no obligation opinion of market value is a smart place to start this process! Click “Contact Us” at the top of this page to get in touch with one of our team members today!

Anchorage AK: A Haven for Nature Lovers and Adventure Seekers

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Are you looking for a new home in a place that offers unlimited adventure and natural beauty? For that, Anchorage, Alaska, is hard to beat.  Anchorage is a normal city with all the comforts and entertainment of urban life; however, you can be out of the city and into the wilderness with less than an hour’s drive in any direction!

Nestled in the state’s south-central region, Anchorage is surrounded by the picturesque Chugach Mountains. It is Alaska’s largest city and the state’s cultural and economic center. Anchorage has more than 300,000 residents and all the modern conveniences paired with a small-town feel.

The city’s proximity to nature is one of its most appealing features. The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail is a beautiful place to bike, walk, or run, and the Chugach Mountains provide a wealth of opportunities for outdoor activities like skiing, camping, and hiking. There are also a lot of parks and gardens in the city, like Kincaid Park and the Alaska Native Heritage Center. Additionally, fishing and hunting are popular activities in Anchorage. The city rests on the banks of the Cook Inlet where fishermen catch salmon, halibut, and other fish. There are opportunities to hunt bear and moose in the mountains nearby as well. If you prefer hunting with a camera or binoculars, you won’t be disappointed!

There are so many choices available when it comes to buying a home in the Anchorage area. Each neighborhood has its own charm and personality. Modern apartments in the midtown area, historic downtown homes, and even a hillside log cabin are available to home buyers. For those who want a brand-new home, there are several wonderful builders waiting to build your home just the way you want it.

South Addition, just south of downtown, is one of Anchorage’s most popular neighborhoods. The historic homes and tree-lined streets of this area are well-known. Additionally, it is home to numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops. Spenard, another popular neighborhood, is just south-west of downtown and is known for its trendy bars, restaurants, and boutiques.

Anchorage is a place where everyone belongs. This beautiful city is the ideal location whether you’re looking for a place to call home or an adventure destination. A haven for nature lovers and adventurers alike; its natural beauty, proximity to nature, and numerous adventure opportunities make Anchorage a must see.

Head over to our Buyers page and check out the homes for sale in Anchorage if you are thinking of making a change! You’re certain to find a home that will be the perfect place to land between all your Alaskan adventures.

Anchorage’s Recreational Opportunities Abound!

 

      

The natural beauty and distinctive way of life that Alaska offers are hard to come by elsewhere. There are numerous opportunities for outdoor activities like cross-country skiing, biking, fishing, and hiking close to the city which is surrounded by immense mountain ranges. Downhill skiing is available with a short drive south to the world class Alyeska Ski resort. Anchorage also has a thriving arts and music scene and is well-known for its diverse culture and long history of innovation in business, environmentalism, and education. Although it is not the state capital, Anchorage is the largest city in Alaska and its economy is robust, with numerous job opportunities across diverse industries.

Anchorage is surrounded by the Cook Inlet waterway on the west where the scenic Tony Knowles Coastal Trail runs from downtown Anchorage, past Ted Stephens International Airport to Kincaid Park. The city also has a number of parks and gardens, like the Alaska Native Heritage Center and the Botanical Gardens, Kincaid Park and Bicentennial Park. The abundance of protected and maintained wild offers numerous opportunities to observe diverse wildlife. In the nearby creeks and lakes, other water-based activities like kayaking and rafting are also popular. Fishing near Anchorage is world famous with chances to catch salmon, halibut, crab, and other abundant species. Many people fish for Salmon in close-by Ship Creek just a few blocks from the downtown city center.

With the beautiful and seemingly endless landscape just a step outside your back door, Anchorage is an ideal place for nature lovers, thrill seekers, and world travelers to add to their bucket lists!