Starter Home Near Airport, Earthquake Park, desirable location for First Time Homebuyers

  Buying a home is more than just finding the right property, it’s about finding the right community. Even the perfect house can lose its appeal if the neighborhood doesn’t fit your lifestyle. Here’s how to “test drive” an area before committing. Visit at Different Times Drive or walk through the neighborhood on weekdays, weekends, mornings, and nights. This helps you gauge noise levels, traffic, and activity patterns. Talk to Residents Neighbors are a valuable source of information on local events, safety, and day-to-day life. Explore Amenities Visit parks, schools, restaurants, and shops nearby. Think about how they fit into your daily life. Research Crime and School Ratings Check online resources and local police reports for a better understanding of safety. Test the Commute If you’ll be traveling to work or school, try the drive at peak hours to see if it’s manageable. Watch for Red Flags Multiple “For Sale” signs, neglected yards, or vacan...

    Fixer-uppers can be a golden opportunity, especially in competitive housing markets. They often sell for less, give you the freedom to customize, and can build equity quickly. But financing one can be more complex than buying a move-in-ready home. Here’s how to navigate your possible options. Conventional Loan If the home is livable and meets lender requirements, you might qualify for a traditional mortgage and finance renovations separately. FHA 203(k) Loan This government-backed loan rolls the purchase price and repair costs into one mortgage. It’s ideal for primary residences needing significant upgrades. VA Renovation Loan If you’re a veteran, the VA offers renovation financing that may cover both purchase and repairs. Home Equity or Personal Loan If you already own a property, tapping into your home equity through a personal loan could be an option. Tips for Success: Get a realistic contractor estimate before making an offer. Work with...

  Labor Day weekend in Anchorage signals the unofficial end of summer, a perfect time to enjoy one last outdoor adventure before cooler days set in. Whether your family loves nature, events, or relaxed backyard fun, there’s something for everyone. Here are some family-friendly ideas to make your Labor Day weekend memorable. Picnic and Play at Kincaid Park With scenic views of Cook Inlet, miles of biking and hiking trails, and wide-open picnic areas, Kincaid Park offers a full day of outdoor fun. Pack lunch, bring bikes or frisbees, and enjoy the fresh air. Visit the Alaska State Fair in Palmer This end-of-summer tradition is worth the short drive. You’ll find rides, games, livestock exhibits, live music, and classic fair treats like funnel cakes and reindeer sausage. Fishing Adventure Late summer fishing in Alaska is fantastic. Try Ship Creek for salmon, head to a local lake for trout, or make it a road trip to the Kenai Peninsula. Bring the kids for a day of ...

  As August winds down in Anchorage, the cooler mornings hint at the season ahead. While it may still feel like summer during the day, winter has a way of sneaking up fast in Alaska. Preparing now, before the first frost, can protect your home, improve energy efficiency, and save you from expensive repairs during the colder months. Here’s a detailed late-August homeowner’s checklist to get you ready.   Inspect and Clean Your Gutters Summer storms can leave leaves, twigs, and debris lodged in your gutters. Clogged gutters can cause water to back up and freeze, leading to ice dams, roof leaks, and damage to your siding. Use a ladder to check and clear them, or hire a professional if needed. Seal Drafts and Check Weatherstripping A warm house in winter starts with stopping cold air from sneaking in. Check around windows and doors for gaps or worn-out seals. Replace weatherstripping and re-caulk where necessary. Not only does this keep your home warmer, but it also...