Anchorage Real Estate BlogRecently posted or modified blog postshttps://www.anchoragerealestate.com/blog/Copyright AnchorageRealEstate.com2021-04-07T09:54:09-07:00tag:anchoragerealestate.com,2012-09-20:4103The 4 Best Art Galleries in Anchorage, AK<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1716/image/art-galleries-in-anchorage.jpg" alt="4 Must-See Art Galleries in Anchorage, AK" width="475" />Whether you're looking to buy art for your home or you just want to look at something beautiful, there is no shortage of beautiful art galleries to visit. Many of the galleries here in Anchorage, AK prioritize art that is true to Alaska, from paintings of the landscape to carvings made by Alaska natives, so you'll find something truly Alaskan no matter where you go. But where are the best art galleries across <a href="http://anchoragerealestate.sierradevsite5.com/anchorage/">Anchorage</a>?
International Gallery of Contemporary Art
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/International+Gallery+of+Art/@61.217891,-149.8913276,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c89629c5d68d5d:0xd3a6fa271dde7aad!8m2!3d61.217891!4d-149.8891389" target="_blank">International Gallery of Contemporary Art, 427 D Street, Anchorage, AK 99501</a>
The <a href="http://www.igcaalaska.org/" target="_blank">International Gallery of Contemporary Art</a> promotes art of all mediums while encouraging its visitors to engage with different mediums as well. The exhibitions held at the museum change monthly and feature artists from all over Alaska and beyond, so there is always new and evocative art to see. The museum also features four studios available for artists to rent on a monthly basis, and the artists may choose for their studio to be open for public viewing. Additionally, this gallery hosts a variety of community-focused events throughout the year, from talks with various artists to life-drawing sessions and more.
Aurora Fine Art
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Aurora+Fine+Art/@61.2177326,-149.8979913,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c8bd8736facb1d:0xf72182bbf4d3a523!8m2!3d61.2177326!4d-149.8958025" target="_blank">Aurora Fine Art, 737 W 5th Ave Suite E, Anchorage, AK 99501</a>
From its inception, <a href="http://www.aurorafineart-alaska.com/index.html" target="_blank">Aurora Fine Art</a> has been a gallery to showcase the beauty local artists create. For decades, this gallery has specialized in the diversity of the artists from Anchorage and all over Alaska: internationally recognized artists such as Gail Niebrugge, as well as a particular focus on art from Alaska native artists like Susie Silook and the multiple artists in the Tepton family. From glass work and paintings to masks ivory carvings, Aurora features traditional and modern art that conveys the Alaskan spirit of adventure and beauty in as many ways as possible.
The Antique Gallery
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/The+Antique+Gallery/@61.2186371,-149.904194,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c8bd86b29712f5:0xa61335b37021db79!8m2!3d61.2186371!4d-149.9020053" target="_blank">The Antique Gallery, 1001 W 4th Ave Suite B, Anchorage, AK 99501</a>
<a href="https://www.theantiquegallery.com/" target="_blank">The Antique Gallery</a> features a wide array of contemporary and antique art pieces of all kinds. They proudly feature and care for antiques such as jewelry, coins, and pottery, as well as more unusual items, like knives and nuggets of Alaskan gold. In addition to their impressive collection of antiques, they also feature the works of artists like Carl Abken and Ted Lambert who call or had called Alaska their home. Also of note is the work of Nick Evan and other modern Alaska native artists, whose works are featured in The Antique Gallery as part of the largest collection of Alaska native crafts in Anchorage.
Stephan Fine Arts Gallery
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Stephan+Fine+Arts+Gallery/@61.2180184,-149.9030824,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c8bd80aa08bf1f:0x24c4bdeaa8f279ee!8m2!3d61.2180184!4d-149.9008937" target="_blank">Hotel Captain Hook, 939 W 5th Ave D, Anchorage, AK 99501</a>
A family-owned gallery, <a href="http://www.stephanfinearts.com/" target="_blank">Stephan Fine Arts</a> offers a collection geared toward local interests. It started as one family's art collection on display for Anchorage to enjoy, and that same family shares their love of art with the public to this day. Paintings by all sorts of local talent are on display, including names like Andy Hehnlin, David Rosenthal, and Sandra Pullins. Landscapes, animals, and even abstract scenes make the gallery a real feast of color. This gallery also features frequent "Meet The Artists" shows, where visitors can meet and speak with a couple of the artists whose work is on display.
Pay a visit to any of the diverse galleries on this list today, and find some of the best art you can find in Anchorage. You may even find the perfect new art piece for your home.2020-08-25T09:28:00-07:002020-08-25T09:29:28-07:00Ryan Tollefsentag:anchoragerealestate.com,2012-09-20:4080The 4 Best Flea Markets in Anchorage, AK<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1716/image/flea-markets-in-anchorage.jpg" alt="4 Must-See Flea Markets in Anchorage, AK" width="475" />What's the best way to support local businesses and get something nice for yourself in return? In <a href="http://anchoragerealestate.sierradevsite5.com/anchorage/">Anchorage</a>, the best way to do that is by coming to the markets held around the city throughout the year. But where are the best flea markets held around Anchorage, AK?
Anchorage Market
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Anchorage+Market/@61.2193794,-149.8928496,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c8bd8789a06919:0xa409e8b09c6f7ce5!8m2!3d61.2193794!4d-149.8906555" target="_blank">Anchorage Market, 225 E St, Anchorage, AK 99501</a>
Hours of operation: every Saturday and Sunday from mid-May to mid-September; Saturdays, 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and Sundays, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
<a href="https://anchoragemarkets.com/anchorage-market/" target="_blank">The Anchorage Market</a> is quintessentially Anchorage, and it has everything you might be looking for. Locals and visitors alike come to the market in the city's downtown to peruse the goods being offered, from souvenirs of travel to creature comforts. The Eat Local section of the market offers locally grown and made food; the Kids' Market offers activities for young visitors as well as goods made by young hands; there are tents for non-profit organizations asking for donations; and much more.
The Center Market
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/The+Center+Market/@61.1943576,-149.8767373,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c897c847cfc5f5:0x4282378f66714ddc!8m2!3d61.1943576!4d-149.8745433" target="_blank">Midtown Mall, 600 E Northern Lights Blvd, Anchorage, AK 99503</a>
Hours of operation: year-round; Wednesdays and Fridays from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
As the only year-round farmer's market in Anchorage, <a href="https://centermarketak.com/" target="_blank">The Center Market</a> provides for its community. The vendors at this market seek to bring its shoppers the best food from a variety of sources. Enjoy farm-fresh tomatoes, cauliflower, kale, and other vegetables as well as other farm goods like honey, herbs, and a variety of meats. The Center Market also offers goods from vendors that aren't farmers, such as confectionaries, salad dressing makers, bakeries, and brewers. Come by anytime throughout the year to see what's in store for you.
Duane's Antique Market
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Duane's+Antique+Market/@61.1521949,-149.8610044,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c8977db9a9e723:0x1c54742bfed2083d!8m2!3d61.1521949!4d-149.8588104" target="_blank">Duane's Antique Market, 1233 E 76th Ave, Anchorage, AK 99518</a>
Hours of operation: year-round; Tuesday to Saturday, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
The largest and oldest antique store in all of Alaska, <a href="https://www.duanesantiquemarket.com/" target="_blank">Duane's Antique Market</a> is a sight to behold. This store offers antiques from all over the world, with stock such as furniture, jewelry, books, and other conversation pieces. New stock arrives in the store weekly, sourced both from outside American borders and from within Alaska itself. The owner of the market also restores antiques that have fallen into disrepair, and he takes great pride in his work. The market will soon be opening an online store as well, so be sure to check them out.
O'Malley Castle Market
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/O'Malley+Castle+Market/@61.1222736,-149.8559511,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c8990e1ef92f1f:0xf39d7448a5fcce50!8m2!3d61.1222736!4d-149.8537571" target="_blank">O'Malley Castle Market, 1520 O'Malley Rd, Anchorage, AK 99507</a>
Hours of operation: every second and third weekend of the month; Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and Sundays from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
The <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/category/Arts—-Entertainment/OMalley-Castle-Market-462398770880594/" target="_blank">O'Malley Castle Market </a>is a beautiful arts and crafts emporium full of handmade goods. Located in O'Malley Castle, this market offers free parking for everyone to come inside and see what they have to offer. Vendors sell a variety of goods, from jewelry and artwork to cosmetics and baked goods, and so much more! Every item sold at this market is unique and made by hand from local artists and creative businesses. Activities for all ages are also held at the market, including scavenger hunts and bingo games.
Anchorage is a beautiful and diverse city, and the goods offered at its markets are even more so. Check out what's being sold at the market nearest to you today!2020-08-18T08:01:00-07:002020-08-18T08:07:27-07:00Ryan Tollefsentag:anchoragerealestate.com,2012-09-20:4040Where Are the Best Water Parks In and Around Anchorage, AK?<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1716/image/water-parks-near-anchorage.jpg" alt="Where to Have Waterside Fun in Anchorage, Alaska" width="475" />With the sun shining and temperatures rising, it is high time to get out to the water park and have some fun. Unfortunately, since the options in <a href="http://anchoragerealestate.sierradevsite5.com/anchorage/">Anchorage</a>, Alaska, are quite limited, it can feel like a challenge to find the perfect place to have a great time. To help everyone out, here's a look at the only full water park in town along with several other awesome places to cool off.
H2Oasis Indoor Waterpark
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/H2Oasis+Indoor+Waterpark/@61.1222762,-149.8559458,17z/data=!4m13!1m7!3m6!1s0x56c89994b7ee7cab:0xcc3617e8abb30ccc!2s1520+O'Malley+Rd,+Anchorage,+AK+99507!3b1!8m2!3d61.1222736!4d-149.853757!3m4!1s0x56c89994c9cc7167:0xef51ab14aff6c565!8m2!3d61.1209372!4d-149.8537859" target="_blank">H2Oasis Indoor Waterpark, 1520 O'Malley Road, Anchorage, Alaska 99507</a>
When only a water park will do, everyone can head out to the <a href="https://www.h2oasiswaterpark.com/" target="_blank">H2Oasis Indoor Waterpark</a>. This is the only purpose-built water park within hours of Anchorage, making it a popular place to spend lazy summer days. They definitely have enough attractions onsite to eat up day after day of visits, and they are all located indoors and away from the bright sun.
The most popular attractions at H2Oasis include:
Open-Flume Orange Slide
Wave Pool
Lazy River
Mushroom Waterfall
They even have dedicated spaces for the little ones to frolic and play, such as the Pirate Ship Kiddie Pool. While their parents watch nearby, even the smallest kids can climb onboard, sail the ship, and blast through the slide to the one-foot-deep wading pool below.
When free play doesn't quite cut it, visitors can participate in the guided activities like water aerobics. When guests are done working out, they can take a dip in the hot tub to warm up their tired muscles.
Seawolf Sports Complex Swimming Pool
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Seawolf+Sports+Complex/@61.1897023,-149.8320934,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c8970063ed5d9f:0x820a1631c329d39b!8m2!3d61.1896997!4d-149.8299047" target="_blank">University of Alaska Anchorage, 2801 Spirit Dr, Anchorage, Alaska 99508</a>
Although it is located on the University of Anchorage campus, the <a href="https://www.uaa.alaska.edu/about/administrative-services/departments/athletics/recreation/sports-complex/" target="_blank">Seawolf Sports Complex</a> swimming pool is open to the public. Their gigantic ‘L'-shaped indoor pool spans 25 meters across either side. Swimmers can practice their strokes in six separate lanes that run the length of the pool. In the open section, they have two diving boards at different heights for those who want to hop in from above. Lifeguards at this pool are kept on duty—one per every 25 swimmers—to help everyone stay safe while having an awesome time.
Dimond Pool
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Dimond+Pool/@61.1431024,-149.9341398,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c8983f8071d3f9:0x19a6b690996f992!8m2!3d61.1431024!4d-149.9319511" target="_blank">Dimond Pool, 2909 West 88th, Anchorage, Alaska 99502</a>
At <a href="http://www.muni.org/Departments/parks/Pages/DimondPool.aspx" target="_blank">Dimond Pool</a>, visitors can use the pool at their leisure to swim laps, hop off the diving boards, or just lounge around. In addition to free swims, Dimond offers lessons for beginning to advanced swimmers throughout the year. For those who want to get in some exercise, they offer water aerobics sessions at various times each week. They even let people rent out the entire pool on Saturdays for birthday parties and other events.
The Alaska Club Eagle River
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/The+Alaska+Club+Eagle+River/@61.3289005,-149.5723959,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c8eb73a3eff26d:0x574d52c2fbc08719!8m2!3d61.3289005!4d-149.5702073" target="_blank">The Alaska Club Eagle River, 12001 Business Boulevard, Eagle River, Alaska 99577</a>
Fun for all ages awaits at the <a href="https://www.thealaskaclub.com/eagle-river-gym" target="_blank">Alaska Club Eagle River Pool and Splash Park</a> in <a href="http://anchoragerealestate.sierradevsite5.com/eagle-river/">Eagle River</a>. At the center of the fun is their 25-yard indoor pool that features four lanes for swimming plus an enclosed waterslide. Next to the pool, they have a small splash park with fountains and other fun water features. When it comes time to take a break from the action, visitors can plunk down into the hot tub at the other side of the pool.
With a visit to each of these superb venues, everyone can see why they are the top spots for waterside fun in Anchorage, Alaska. Each one offers a unique experience and plenty of ways to cool off as the sun shines brightly day in and day out.2020-08-11T09:09:00-07:002020-08-11T09:15:21-07:00Ryan Tollefsentag:anchoragerealestate.com,2012-09-20:3979Where Are the Best BBQ Restaurants in Anchorage, AK?<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1716/image/bbq-in-anchorage.jpg" alt="The Top Anchorage BBQ Restaurants to Try" width="475" /><br />Alaska is home to some of the best BBQ restaurants in the country, with many of those restaurants being situated in the heart of Anchorage.
These are the best BBQ restaurants in <a href="http://anchoragerealestate.sierradevsite5.com/anchorage/">Anchorage</a>, AK:
TaTu BBQ
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/TaTu+BBQ+AK/@61.1983873,-149.9016827,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c897333b43771d:0x6664fc3da43bae6b!8m2!3d61.1983847!4d-149.899494" target="_blank">TaTu BBQ, 840 W Fireweed Ln, Anchorage, AK 99503</a>
Since 2006, <a href="https://www.tatubbq.com/" target="_blank">TaTu BBQ</a> has been serving up delicious Carolina- and Texas-style barbecue food at the American Legion Post 1 in Anchorage. The owner prides himself on serving up the best BBQ food in the city, and he is particularly passionate about serving up great BBQ food to veterans who have served in the military. Those who visit this establishment will get to enjoy a barbecue sandwich made of smokehouse meats that are drizzled in a sweet-and-spicy sauce. This restaurant is open Thursday through Sunday for dinner and is a popular place among locals who want fresh BBQ food for a great price.
Smokehouse BBQ
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Smokehouse+BBQ/@61.2092985,-149.7800134,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c8968ce433b2e1:0x11dafccb3939f897!8m2!3d61.2092959!4d-149.7778247" target="_blank">Smokehouse BBQ, 5500 Debarr Road, Anchorage, AK 99504</a>
<a href="https://smokehousebbqak.com/" target="_blank">Smokehouse BBQ</a> is a quick-service BBQ restaurant in Anchorage that serves up barbecue food to its patrons in two distinct ways. People can either choose to visit The Shack, which is set up like a permanent food truck and serves curbside food to patrons who can enjoy their meals at nearby picnic tables, or they can schedule the Smokehouse BBQ food truck to come cater their special events. Its menu includes turkey legs and reindeer dogs as well as pork sandwiches and brisket sandwiches. It also features original sides such as pineapple coleslaw and sweet baked beans.
Turnagain Arm Pit BBQ
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Turnagain+Arm+Pit+BBQ/@61.1872217,-149.8699888,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c897b97dc116a9:0x8e6a7c035509bd79!8m2!3d61.1872191!4d-149.8678001" target="_blank">Turnagain Arm Pit BBQ, 3637 Old Seward Hwy, Anchorage, AK 99503</a>
<a href="https://turnagainarmpitbbq.com/" target="_blank">Turnagain Arm Pit BBQ</a> is consistently ranked as one of the best BBQ restaurants in Anchorage. This restaurant prides itself on serving true southern barbecue; the owners are committed to the low-and-slow style of southern barbecue, and they rarely vary from the traditional cooking styles that are used in the south. Patrons at this restaurant can enjoy their barbecue meals in the comfortable, home-like dining room, and they are never disappointed by the delicious sides that can accompany their barbecue meat. Additionally, this restaurant features an array of Alaskan beers that are brewed at <a href="http://anchoragerealestate.sierradevsite5.com/blog/all-about-anchorage-brewing-companies-what-you-need-to-know/">Anchorage breweries</a>, which pair perfectly with the restaurant's meals.
Roscoe's Catfish and Barbeque
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Roscoe's+Catfish+and+Barbeque/@61.2164356,-149.8845057,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c896292505a48d:0x2042f95333028386!8m2!3d61.216433!4d-149.882317" target="_blank">Roscoe's Catfish and Barbeque, 120 E 6th Ave, Anchorage, AK 99501</a>
For more than 30 years, <a href="https://roscoescatfishandbarbeque.webs.com/" target="_blank">Roscoe's Catfish and Barbeque</a> has been serving up Anchorage residents and travelers with southern-style meals. This restaurant is known to have the best catfish meals in the region, and it also creates barbecue meals from old family recipes. The restaurant owner strives to provide his customers at the restaurant with the same delicious food that his own mother used to make. Located in downtown Anchorage, this restaurant is the perfect place for people to go if they are searching for southern hospitality in Alaska.
Pete's Barbecue
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Pete's+Barbecue/@61.3322248,-149.5671887,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c8eb74356f9d4f:0x542efa3bfdd8e664!8m2!3d61.3322222!4d-149.565" target="_blank">Pete's Barbecue, 12349 Old Glenn Hwy, Eagle River, AK 99577</a>
Not far from Anchorage in <a href="http://anchoragerealestate.sierradevsite5.com/eagle-river/">Eagle River</a> is <a href="http://www.petesbarbecue.com/" target="_blank">Pete's Barbecue</a>, which features a simple menu largely comprised of sandwiches. Not only does it have the traditional barbecue pork or beef sandwich, but it also offers fried chicken sandwiches, fish sandwiches and specialty burgers. It also has a variety of side dishes on its menu, such as jalapeño poppers, fried mushrooms and potato salad.
All the best BBQ restaurants in Anchorage serve up heaping piles of barbecue meat as well as generous portions of savory side dishes. No matter which restaurant a traveler or local resident chooses, they will be greeted with a delicious meal that fills their belly.2020-07-28T07:14:00-07:002020-07-28T07:19:30-07:00Ryan Tollefsentag:anchoragerealestate.com,2012-09-20:3958Where Are the Best Dessert Restaurants in Anchorage, AK?<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1716/image/dessert-in-anchorage.jpg" alt="Which Dessert Restaurants in Anchorage Are the Best?" width="475" />Alaska is full of delicious eateries, including several restaurants that are known for their excellent desserts. Forget about lunch and dinner, because these cafés and quaint shops often attract customers seeking sweets, ice cream and cakes. Whether you're looking for a place to go on a date, or you're just seeking a restaurant where you can go with the kids, these beloved establishments in <a href="http://anchoragerealestate.sierradevsite5.com/anchorage/">Anchorage</a> have everything you need to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Wild Scoops
Address: various
<a href="http://www.wildscoops.com/" target="_blank">Wild Scoops</a> is known for its small batches of ice cream flavors made from Alaskan ingredients. Here, you'll find ice cream made from products found in gardens and forests. Wild scoops gets compliments from the locals who appreciate the ice cream and the kind, thoughtful service. Want a delicious ice cream cone? How about a single scoop of delicious Alaska-made ice cream? Wild Scoops is the place for you.
The Kobuk
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/The+Kobuk/@61.2174416,-149.8938717,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c89629e0fb0989:0x91ed3cbf7b989836!8m2!3d61.217439!4d-149.891683" target="_blank">The Kobuk, 504 W. 5th Ave., Anchorage</a>
<a href="https://www.kobukcoffee.com/" target="_blank">The Kobuk</a> is a one-stop shop for unique gifts and sweets and treats! Serving delicious old-fashioned donuts, tea and coffees, The Kobuk is more than just a place to get food. Here, you can get everything from Alaskan-made soaps to gift baskets. This is a nice little place to bring out-of-towners, relatives or small children. Stop in during your next shopping trip, or any time you need a fix of coffee and sweets.
Fire Island Rustic Bakeshop
Address: various
<a href="https://fireislandbread.com/" target="_blank">Fire Island Rustic Bakeshop</a> sells everything from rustic breads and treats to cakes and cupcakes. Offering outdoor seating and takeout, people who enjoy going to Fire Island Rustic Bakeshop say they enjoy the Monkey Bread and complement the people who run the establishment.
Alaska Crepery
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Alaska+Crepery/@61.2177699,-149.8903602,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c8970c5470a70b:0xc2fd43c9b4c96d1!8m2!3d61.2177673!4d-149.8881715" target="_blank">Alaska Crepery, 319 W 5th Ave, Anchorage</a>
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/alaskacrepery/" target="_blank">Alaska Crepery</a> is situated in a bright and inviting space. They serve - what else - crepes! Service at the crepery is said to be fast, and the food is delicious. Being a crepe restaurant, Alaska Crepery sells some sausage and vegetable crepes and dessert-style crepes as well. This is a great place to come for a snack or for lunch and is recommended for anyone who is visiting the area or who lives there permanently.
Antonios Greek Bakery and Café
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Antonios+Greek+Bakery+%26+Caf%C3%A9/@61.1925467,-149.9166248,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c897c2ffffffff:0x23d10d763191aac8!8m2!3d61.1925441!4d-149.914436" target="_blank">Antonios Greek Bakery and Café, 3020 Minnesota Dr 19a, Anchorage</a>
<a href="https://www.antoniosgreekbakery.com/" target="_blank">Antonios Greek Bakery and Café</a> serves a variety of foods, not just desserts. However, if you're seeking a custard, or another traditional Greek dessert-type food, Antonios Greek Bakery is it. Come here for hearty meals, including the lamb, potatoes, carrots and more. Stay for the Galaktoboureko (custard between phyllo crust in a honey cinnamon sauce).2020-07-22T08:44:00-07:002020-07-22T08:46:00-07:00Ryan Tollefsentag:anchoragerealestate.com,2012-09-20:3928Where Are the Best Wineries Near Anchorage, Alaska?<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1716/image/wineries-near-anchorage.jpg" alt="Where to Find Excellent Alaska Wineries Near Anchorage" width="475" />Although wineries near <a href="http://anchoragerealestate.sierradevsite5.com/anchorage/">Anchorage</a> are few and far between, the ones in existence offer five-star services and extraordinary products. The only drawback is that most require a several hour drive to reach. They are well worth the time spent traveling, however, as they offer wine that cannot be found anywhere else. To help everyone track them down, here's an in-depth look at the top three options in the region.
Alaska Denali Winery
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Alaska+Denali+Winery/@61.1128438,-149.8631549,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c8979d9788bda9:0xc3cbd4fe0949158!8m2!3d61.1128412!4d-149.8609663" target="_blank">Alaska Denali Winery, 11901 Industry Way, Building A #1, Anchorage, Alaska 99515</a>
The <a href="https://www.alaskadenaliwinery.com/" target="_blank">Alaska Denali Winery</a> sits right in the heart of Anchorage and is ready to serve up specialty wine of all kinds. They make all their wine onsite using fresh ingredients and micro-brewing techniques. Alaska Denali Winery uses effective quality-control practices, ensuring their creations always live up to their customers' expectations.
Their wine offerings include:
Merlot
Cabernet Sauvignon
Pinot Noir
Shiraz
Chardonnay
Their wines are sold by the glass and the bottle throughout the year. If anyone has trouble deciding between the varieties, they can order up a flight of six wines. Although they do not serve any food, Alaska Denali winery invites their customers to bring in cheese, fruit, and other foods to enjoy with their flight if they wish.
Bear Creek Winery
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Bear+Creek+Winery/@59.6698389,-151.4577807,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m8!3m7!1s0x56c12d14dc37cd3d:0xdc71000b85430961!5m2!4m1!1i2!8m2!3d59.6698362!4d-151.455592" target="_blank">Bear Creek Winery, 60203 Bear Creek Drive, Homer, Alaska 99603</a>
The <a href="https://www.bearcreekwinery.com/" target="_blank">Bear Creek Winery</a> keeps their doors open seven days a week in <a href="http://anchoragerealestate.sierradevsite5.com/homer/">Homer</a> to serve the public all the wines they could ever want. They produce a ton of unique varieties onsite using quality, local ingredients and time-honored techniques. In fact, Bear Creek Winery has everything from port to chardonnay available for purchase. They are best known for their wine blends, however, that pair interesting fruit flavors with their quality grape base.
Their most popular flavors include:
Blueberry
Peach-apricot
Raspberry
Strawberry
Black currant
Apple
Kiwi-pear
In addition to selling wine by the bottle, Bear Creek Winery keeps their tasting room open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Visitors can walk in and order any of their 15 wine varieties kept on rotation. While their customers sip on each glass, servers offer up pairing suggestions they can use at home if they purchase a bottle or two.
Alaska Berries
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Alaska+Berries/@60.4883938,-151.196214,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c662fae0d9e58f:0xaa4bc0a47715620a!8m2!3d60.4883912!4d-151.1940253" target="_blank">Alaska Berries, 48660 West Poppy Lane, Soldotna, Alaska 99669</a>
Located in <a href="http://anchoragerealestate.sierradevsite5.com/soldotna/">Soldotna</a>, <a href="http://www.alaskaberries.com/" target="_blank">Alaska Berries</a> makes it their mission to go one step further than any other wineries near Anchorage by producing their own fruit. They grow fields upon fields of luscious berries and other fruit that they transform into wine and other quality products. Their team expertly tends the fields, keeping the fruit growing at its best until prime harvest time arrives.
Once the berries and other fruits are picked, they begin turning them into high-quality beverages, including hard cider. The wine is sold by the flavor to keep it simple. Many people choose to buy their jam, syrup, and fresh berries to go with their wine whenever they get a chance to visit. Customers can even pick up a dozen or more Icelandic chicken and duck eggs. They also sell their plants and growing supplies to let everyone give small-scale farming a try.
Everyone simply cannot go wrong by visiting these Alaska wineries near Anchorage. With all their wine offerings and excellent service, they are all well-worth a visit whenever there is time to spare. If the trip is too far, or time simply will not allow, these wineries happily ship out many of their offerings to online customers.2020-07-14T07:20:00-07:002020-07-14T07:22:05-07:00Ryan Tollefsentag:anchoragerealestate.com,2012-09-20:3838Where Are the Best Kid-Friendly Activities in Anchorage, AK?<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1716/image/kid-friendly-activities-in-anchorage.jpg" alt="Seeking Kid-Friendly Activities in Anchorage? These Activities Can Help" width="475" />Alaska is the place to be if you're looking for a variety of indoor and outdoor activities to enjoy with your children. Whether you're in Anchorage for a day or you own a house in the city, there are many places that you can go with your little ones and older children. Below are some of the most popular activities for kids in <a href="http://anchoragerealestate.sierradevsite5.com/anchorage/">Anchorage</a>.
Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Alaska+Wildlife+Conservation+Center/@60.8212362,-148.9811077,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c876b20a7fd467:0xd959a1a66e3b4773!8m2!3d60.8212336!4d-148.9789137" target="_blank">Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, Mile 79 Seward Highway, Girdwood</a>
The <a href="https://www.alaskawildlife.org/" target="_blank">Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center</a> (AWCC) is a wildlife preserve where children can learn about animals and animal care. The AWCC takes in animals that have been orphaned and injured. Admission fees, membership fees, donations and gift shop profits all help the AWCC in its mission to care for these animals. This is an excellent place to bring your little one if they enjoy seeing animals up close and learning about their habitat.
AWCC has a variety of programs that allow visitors to enjoy the preserve in unique ways, including an adopt-an-animal program and tours. AWCC also holds events and meetings, field trips, art contests and more. There are many ways that your child can interact with animals at AWCC, so check it out!
Alyeska Aerial Tram
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Alyeska+Aerial+Tram/@60.9701469,-149.0987178,17z/data=!4m12!1m6!3m5!1s0x56c864cfb0346d6f:0xe35c3ec53fb5ae0!2sAlyeska+Aerial+Tram!8m2!3d60.9701443!4d-149.0965238!3m4!1s0x56c864cfb0346d6f:0xe35c3ec53fb5ae0!8m2!3d60.9701443!4d-149.0965238" target="_blank">Hotel Alyeska, Tram Circle, Girdwood</a>
<a href="https://www.alyeskaresort.com/resort/about-aerial-tram" target="_blank">Alyeska Aerial Tram</a> is a ride from the Hotel Alyeska to the top of Mt. Alyeska. The ride lasts approximately three to seven minutes long, but it's a journey that makes memories for a lifetime. Your kids will never forget the stunning views of the hanging glaciers and the Turnagain Arm. In the summer, it's common to spot large wildlife like moose and bears. Once at the top, kids will enjoy the observation deck, which provides even more panoramic views of the mountains.
Tony Knowles Coastal Trail
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Tony+Knowles+Coastal+Trail/@61.1542092,-150.0619466,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c8a2fa02cd1e57:0x7bc35b4ffb23a2c!8m2!3d61.1542066!4d-150.0597526" target="_blank">Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, Raspberry Rd, Anchorage</a>
<a href="https://anchoragecoastaltrail.com/" target="_blank">Tony Knowles Coastal Trail</a> is a trail named for Alaska's former governor. The 11-mile-long trail (22 miles round trip) is an excellent trail for older children who enjoy sights and physical activity. It's also an excellent trail for older kids who enjoy bike rides. Bike rentals and guided tours are available.
Crow Creek Historic Gold Mine
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Crow+Creek+Historic+Gold+Mine/@61.0006731,-149.0850275,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c86493f829e3f7:0x9c8525f7a7384984!8m2!3d61.0006705!4d-149.0828335" target="_blank">Crow Creek Historic Gold Mine, 601 Crow Creek Road, Girdwood</a>
<a href="https://www.crowcreekgoldmine.com/" target="_blank">Crow Creek Historic Gold Mine</a> is a historic gold mine set in the mountains. The oldest buildings are on the Crow Creek Mine property in <a href="http://anchoragerealestate.sierradevsite5.com/girdwood/">Girdwood</a>. The mines are operational, and people can find gold of a significant quantity at the mines. Those who don't want to pan can instead walk the scenic grounds. Private guided tours are available for those who want a special look at the mine and the grounds.
Anchorage Museum
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Anchorage+Museum/@61.2162307,-149.8877731,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c896296ce7438d:0x5745ca1a5052f9af!8m2!3d61.2162281!4d-149.8855791" target="_blank">Anchorage Museum, 625 C St., Anchorage</a>
<a href="https://www.anchoragemuseum.org/" target="_blank">Anchorage Museum</a> is a museum about art, history, ecology, science and ethnography. At the Anchorage Museum, you and your kids can study the history of Alaska. This world-class museum gathers many people every year—approximately 180,000 total visitors—many of which are students. The museum also offers education programs.
Alaska Native Heritage Center
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Alaska+Native+Heritage+Center/@61.2327804,-149.7191383,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c8943d0575406b:0x1c2cf7523bbe4ae1!8m2!3d61.2327778!4d-149.7169444" target="_blank">Alaska Native Heritage Center, 8800 Heritage Center Drive, Anchorage</a>
The <a href="https://www.alaskanative.net/" target="_blank">Alaska Native Heritage Center (ANHC)</a> is a cultural center that focuses on the traditions and culture of Alaska's native peoples. Visitors to the museum enjoy their time learning about native dances and events, art and more.
Anchorage is a fun place where children can grow and learn. There are many recreational and educational opportunities for children in Anchorage. While writing this article we came across a great <a href="https://oddblocks.com/" target="_blank">company that sells wooden blocks and toys</a>. Check them out at https://oddblocks.com. 2020-06-23T09:35:00-07:002021-03-10T10:51:31-07:00Ryan Tollefsentag:anchoragerealestate.com,2012-09-20:3818What Are the Best Dinner Spots in Anchorage, AK?<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1716/image/dinner-spots-in-anchorage.jpg" alt="Best Dinner Restaurants in Anchorage, Alaska " width="475" />Anchorage, Alaska, is a great place to grab a bite to eat or to have a dinner date. Whether you're moving to the area, stopping in for a visit, or have been living in <a href="http://anchoragerealestate.sierradevsite5.com/anchorage/">Anchorage</a> for a long time, the following restaurants are excellent places to discover.
Jen's Restaurant
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Jens'+Restaurant/@61.1888276,-149.8987422,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c897c24aa047f7:0x20e7da1ce01884e9!8m2!3d61.1888276!4d-149.8965482" target="_blank">Olympic Park, 701 W 36th Ave, Anchorage</a>
<a href="http://www.jensrestaurant.com/" target="_blank">Jen's Restaurant</a> is an excellent restaurant for couples, individuals or even large groups. Jen's can accommodate groups of up to 20 people with advance notice; contact them for more information. Jen's is known for serving meals with good presentation and excellent timing between courses. Dinners at Jen's can be casual or formal, depending on the group and the occasion. No matter what the circumstances, the food is always delicious.
Marx Bros. Café
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/The+Marx+Bros+Cafe/@61.2197236,-149.8968338,17z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c8bd8706bef5f5:0xfd99a9394a6422ac!8m2!3d61.2197236!4d-149.8946398" target="_blank">Marx Bros. Café, 627 W 3rd Ave, Anchorage</a>
<a href="https://www.marxcafe.com/" target="_blank">Marx Bros. Café</a> is located in one of the oldest homes in Anchorage. Meals at Marx Bros. feature fresh local seafood and fine-quality meats. Marx Bros. attempts to incorporate as many local ingredients as possible, including local wines. Because the restaurant is located in a former residence, it has room for only 14 tables. Reservations are highly encouraged, as the restaurant will only serve about 60 guests each night. The atmosphere in the restaurant is quiet and elegant, making it an excellent place to bring someone special for a quiet evening out.
Glacier Brewhouse
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Glacier+Brewhouse/@61.2176748,-149.898854,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c8bd8731c7b5ed:0x6664048febe05375!8m2!3d61.2176748!4d-149.8966599" target="_blank">Glacier Brewhouse, 737 W 5th Ave Ste. 110, Anchorage</a>
<a href="https://www.glacierbrewhouse.com/" target="_blank">Glacier Brewhouse</a> is a brewpub with a wood grill and oven. In addition to the wood fired pizza and craft beers, Glacier Brewhouse also serves a variety of vegetarian, gluten-free and keto options. The restaurant is known to have friendly, pleasant staff that serve promptly and with a smile. This is an excellent restaurant to go to for a fun family get-together, a meeting with friends, or after a long day spent shopping and having fun.
49th State Brewing Company
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/49th+State+Brewing+Co+-+Anchorage/@61.2196297,-149.8981143,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c8bd86fd671871:0x52c896e66d960c02!8m2!3d61.2196297!4d-149.8959203" target="_blank">49th State Brewing Company, 717 W 3rd Ave, Anchorage</a>
<a href="https://www.49statebrewing.com/anchorage" target="_blank">49th State Brewing Company</a> has a variety of beers and a menu that can accommodate a variety of special dietary needs such as vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free. 49th State Brewing Company caters to tourists as well as locals. It's a fun place to come after a special event, as the menu is varied and the dining experience is informal.
Jack Sprat Restaurant
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Jack+Sprat/@60.9609325,-149.1125053,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c87b32f03a1591:0x13be488b83e4267c!8m2!3d60.9609325!4d-149.1103113" target="_blank">Jack Sprat Restaurant, 165 Olympic Mountain Loop, Girdwood</a>
<a href="http://www.jacksprat.net/" target="_blank">Jack Sprat Restaurant</a> in <a href="http://anchoragerealestate.sierradevsite5.com/girdwood/">Girdwood</a> is known for serving people with a variety of dietary restrictions. With a slogan like "Fat & Lean World Cuisine," visitors can be sure that they'll find a little something for everyone. The food comprises humanely raised meats, local foods whenever possible, and sustainably caught seafood.
Crush Bistro
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Crush+Wine+Bistro+%26+Cellar/@61.2189408,-149.8981154,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c896299995212f:0xca11d4f420a475ea!8m2!3d61.2189408!4d-149.8959213" target="_blank">Crush Bistro, 328 G St Suite 100, Anchorage</a>
<a href="https://www.crushak.com/" target="_blank">Crush Bistro</a> is known for its delicious foods and impressive wine selection. Foods offered at Crush Bistro include vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options. For people who love wine, especially rare vintages, and who want to drink their wine with good food, Crush Bistro is an excellent choice.2020-06-16T08:12:00-07:002020-06-16T08:15:32-07:00Ryan Tollefsentag:anchoragerealestate.com,2012-09-20:3758Where Are the Best Breakfast Spots in Anchorage, AK?<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1716/image/breakfast-in-anchorage.jpg" alt="The Top Anchorage Breakfast Restaurants" width="475" />Whether a traveler is preparing for a marathon day in the Land of the Midnight Sun or a local resident wants to brave the elements, breakfast is essential in <a href="http://anchoragerealestate.sierradevsite5.com/anchorage/">Anchorage</a>. Fortunately, there are many restaurants to choose from that offer an extensive menu of delicious and nutritious breakfast meals.
These are the best breakfast spots in Anchorage, AK:
Gwennie's Old Alaska Restaurant
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Gwennie's+Old+Alaska+Restaurant/@61.1818489,-149.9349059,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c897e32f6f76a5:0xdb0473ba3ec97eef!8m2!3d61.1818463!4d-149.9327172" target="_blank">Gwennie's Old Alaska Restaurant, 4333 Spenard Rd, Anchorage, AK 99517</a>
<a href="http://gwenniesrestaurant.com/" target="_blank">Gwennie's Old Alaska Restaurant</a> has been a long-time favorite of both Anchorage residents and those who are visiting the city. This restaurant has become a well-known city landmark and has been serving up the best breakfast meals for more than 30 years. The restaurant opens at 6 a.m. during the week and at 8 a.m. on the weekends, ensuring that everyone can get a fresh meal when they need it. Breakfast is served at any time of the day, and some of its most popular menu items include Belgian waffles, biscuits and gravy, and omelettes.
Snow City Café
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Snow+City+Cafe/@61.218417,-149.9055384,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c8bd8153e7c941:0x1bd5d7e0eeebfa45!8m2!3d61.2184144!4d-149.9033497" target="_blank">Snow City Café, 1034 W 4th Ave, Anchorage, AK 99501</a>
<a href="https://www.snowcitycafe.com/" target="_blank">Snow City Café</a> has been serving up breakfast to Anchorage natives and travelers since 1998. For years, it has been voted as one of the best breakfast joints in the city, largely because it serves meals that are cooked to order and made from scratch. In addition to traditional breakfast and brunch menu selections, Snow City Café has an extensive vegan menu and a lengthy gluten-free menu. From simple old-fashioned oatmeal to its innovative green eggs and ham dish, there is something for everyone at this breakfast place.
The Hotel Captain Cook
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Hotel+Captain+Cook/@61.2179982,-149.9028105,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m8!3m7!1s0x56c8bd81340d45a1:0x2969ffc6bde5a4f!5m2!4m1!1i2!8m2!3d61.2179956!4d-149.9006217" target="_blank">The Hotel Captain Cook, 939 W 5th Ave, Anchorage, AK 99501</a>
<a href="https://captaincook.com/dining/" target="_blank">The Hotel Captain Cook</a> is a popular downtown hotel that welcomes visitors from across the globe, but even the locals like to head to this hotel for breakfast. There are two restaurants in the hotel that serve breakfast; The Pantry is a quaint dining area that serves classic breakfast meals to guests and patrons who need to start their day on the right note, and The Cubby is a casual restaurant that serves up specialty coffee drinks and quick breakfast items that are perfect for anyone who needs to fuel up while on the go.
The Red Chair Café
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/The+Red+Chair+Cafe/@61.2186606,-149.8798517,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c89628abb400ff:0x5a5a4452eb029853!8m2!3d61.218658!4d-149.8776631" target="_blank">The Red Chair Café, 337 E 4th Ave, Anchorage, AK 99501</a>
Those who are searching for a breakfast place with a cultural flair will enjoy having their first meal of the day at <a href="https://theredchaircafe.com/" target="_blank">The Red Chair Café</a>. This locally owned restaurant is situated in the heart of downtown Anchorage, and it only serves breakfast and lunch meals. Its menu items are more unique and eclectic than other breakfast spots in the city, making this a favorite among people who want an extra dose of flavor with their morning meal. For instance, some items on the menu include Orange and Almond Crusted Baked French Toast and stuffed Fire-Roasted Poblano Pepper.
Middle Way Café
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Middle+Way+Cafe/@61.1946516,-149.9100907,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c897db88baae1f:0xf25c885f6307d34!8m2!3d61.194649!4d-149.907902" target="_blank">Middle Way Café, 1200 W Northern Lights Blvd, Anchorage, AK 99503</a>
<a href="http://www.middlewaycafe.com/" target="_blank">Middle Way Café</a> is a breakfast restaurant in Anchorage that has been taking an unconventional approach to dining in the city since 1994. This restaurant features a menu created from organic and locally sourced ingredients. The menu changes frequently based on what seasonal ingredients are available, but diners can count on having gluten-free and vegan menu selections at all times. In addition to a delicious breakfast menu, this restaurant features a spacious dining room that is filled with local art. It offers a glimpse into the authentic Anchorage experience.
As the old saying goes, breakfast is the most important meal of the day. That is particularly true in Anchorage, where residents and visitors alike need to fuel up for a day filled with adventure and fun as they explore the Last Frontier.2020-06-09T06:51:00-07:002020-06-09T06:54:37-07:00Ryan Tollefsentag:anchoragerealestate.com,2012-09-20:3780Where Are the Best Farmers Markets in Anchorage, AK?<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1716/image/farmers-markets-in-anchorage.jpg" alt="The Top Farmers Markets in Anchorage, AK" />Anchorage is a community hub for much of the state of Alaska, with many of the amenities and necessary services being located in this metropolitan area. In addition to hosting hospitals, retail outlets, restaurants and more, this city also is home to some of the best farmers markets in the state.
<a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/anchorage-homes-for-sale/">Anchorage</a> residents and visitors who are searching for fresh produce and handmade goods will love visiting these farmers markets in the city:
Anchorage Farmers Market
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Anchorage+Farmers+Market/@61.2082893,-149.8826097,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c8962d42d41347:0xceef0889ac1e10ad!8m2!3d61.2082893!4d-149.8804211" target="_blank">Anchorage Farmers Market, 1420 Cordova St, Anchorage, AK 99501</a>
The <a href="https://www.anchoragefarmersmarket.org/" target="_blank">Anchorage Farmers Market</a> is a seasonal market that opens from early May until the middle of October each year. The market takes place from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays, and it features a variety of local vendors who sell fresh produce, homemade baked goods and artisan products. Each year, the vendors at the market vary, and the 2020 market anticipates 16 local vendors will be participating. The market is proud to feature produce that is grown in Alaska, and its central location in downtown Anchorage makes it easy for anyone to access.
The Center Market
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/The+Center+Market/@61.1943576,-149.876732,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c897c847cfc5f5:0x4282378f66714ddc!8m2!3d61.1943576!4d-149.8745433" target="_blank">Midtown Mall, 600 E Northern Lights Blvd, Anchorage, AK 99503</a>
<a href="https://centermarketak.com/" target="_blank">The Center Market</a> is the only year-round farmers market in Anchorage. It is able to operate throughout the entire year because it is located in an indoor facility. The market operates from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Wednesdays and Fridays, and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays. There are more than 10 different vendors who offer their goods at the market, allowing visitors to purchase fresh produce, baked goods, meat and handcrafted soda. This market is proud to offer the local community the best food for their meals throughout the entire year.
South Anchorage Farmers Market
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/South+Anchorage+Farmers+Market+(O'Malley)/@61.1199418,-149.8615737,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c89994493f3431:0xaed81c90bd2a135a!8m2!3d61.1199418!4d-149.859385" target="_blank">South Anchorage Farmers Market, 11111 O'Malley Centre Dr, Anchorage, AK 99515</a>
The <a href="https://www.safm.org/" target="_blank">South Anchorage Farmers Market</a> is one of the largest seasonal farmers markets in Anchorage. More than 30 vendors sell their fresh produce, homegrown herbs, flowers, artisan crafts and fresh baked goods at this market, which takes place weekly on Saturdays and Wednesdays from early May until early October. In addition to hosting a wide variety of vendors each week, there is always live music playing at the market. This market has truly become a neighborhood hub, and is a favorite place for Anchorage locals to gather.
Spenard Farmers Market
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Spenard+Farmers'+Market/@61.1976859,-149.9068641,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c8975000000001:0x141c1350ce542402!8m2!3d61.1976859!4d-149.9046755" target="_blank">Spenard Farmers Market, 2555 Spenard Rd, Anchorage, AK 99503</a>
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/spenardfarmersmarket/" target="_blank">Spenard Farmers Market</a> is another local farmers market that residents in Anchorage can frequent. This market is a community-based, volunteer-run market that is located just outside the city limits of Anchorage. It is a seasonal market that is open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays during the late spring, summer and early fall seasons. This market features a variety of products, including fresh produce grown in Alaska, fresh caught seafood, prepared food and fresh baked goods. It was founded in 2010, making it one of the newest additions to the Anchorage farmers market scene. However, it has quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Muldoon Farmers Market
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Muldoon+Farmers+Market/@61.2145649,-149.7472874,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c89699b09c0001:0x43d9cbc75cb688ad!8m2!3d61.2145649!4d-149.7450987" target="_blank">Muldoon Farmers Market, 7243 Old Harbor Ave, Anchorage, AK 99504</a>
<a href="https://muldoonfarmersmarket.org/" target="_blank">Muldoon Farmers Market</a> is a smaller farmers market that operates on the east side of Anchorage. This community-run, non-profit farmers market is open from late June until early September each year. Visitors can attend the market from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Saturdays. This intimate market is particularly enjoyable because it is located in an Anchorage park. The peaceful setting and minimal number of vendors makes it a quiet spot for a Saturday shopping trip. The vendors at this market specialize in Alaska produce and seafood, as well as fresh baked goods.
Most of the farmers markets in Anchorage are seasonal, but local residents love to get their fresh produce and artisan goods from their favorite vendors during the summer months.2020-05-26T06:28:00-07:002020-06-12T12:38:07-07:00Ryan Tollefsentag:anchoragerealestate.com,2012-09-20:3781Where Are the Best Parks in Anchorage, AK?<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1716/image/parks-in-anchorage.jpg" alt="Best Local City Parks in Anchorage" />Anchorage has exceptional access to five different state and national parks, but many people don't know about the great municipal parks the city has to offer. Many of these parks still offer access to Alaskan wildlife, fishing, kayaking, and other outdoor recreational opportunities, but much closer and on a smaller scale. Due to the natural beauty of the wilderness around <a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/anchorage-homes-for-sale/">Anchorage</a>, the municipal parks are some of the best in the world—so we found some of the best of the city. Here are some of the best parks in Anchorage for you, your friends, and your family to explore.
Kincaid Park
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Kincaid+Park/@61.1541088,-150.0403255,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c8a2f3827c11c3:0xd903501db160f17a!8m2!3d61.1541088!4d-150.0381314" target="_blank">Kincaid Park, 9401 Raspberry Rd, Anchorage, AK 99502</a>
<a href="https://www.alaska.org/detail/kincaid-park" target="_blank">Kincaid Park</a> is one of the treasures in Anchorage. The 1,500 acres of land have been converted into a sprawling park with miles of trails for year-round use. Kincaid has over 40 miles of maintained trails, and another 12 miles of trails are lit at night, meaning year-round walking and hiking is possible, even when the nights are long. One of the best features of Kincaid Park trails is the variety of difficulty levels, since there are trails for both casual strollers and extreme hikers. Kincaid Park is also a premier ski racing venue and has hosted dozens of national and international ski competitions.
Despite the international attention, it is also perfect for recreational skiers who want to ski through the snowy landscapes for fun, as there are recreational ski trails for skiers of all levels. During summer, Kincaid is perfect for biking, jogging, dog walking, and showcases an 18-hole disc golf course. The large acreage means a lot of famous Alaskan wildlife calls Kincaid Park home, so don't be surprised if you spot black bears, bald eagles, or moose during your visit.
South Anchorage Sports Park
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/South+Anchorage+Sports+Park/@61.1192147,-149.894637,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c899b4c905a39f:0xa13d019d264cbf4e!8m2!3d61.1192147!4d-149.892443" target="_blank">South Anchorage Sports Park, 769 W Klatt Rd, Anchorage, AK 99515</a>
The <a href="http://www.muni.org/departments/parks/pages/southanchoragesportspark.aspx" target="_blank">South Anchorage Sports Park</a> is an excellent park choice for active Anchorage citizens and visitors. Formerly the homestead of the Klatt family, the property was acquired in a land exchanged in the late 1990s and turned into a park. This 65-acre sports complex features an American Legion baseball field, two little league fields, an RC (Remote Control) track, dog park, outdoor instruments, and paintball fields. For the kids, there's a full playground that was built a few years ago, a climbing net, roller slides built into the side of a hill, and a sand pit for messy fun. With the barbecue pits and covered picnic areas, South Anchorage Sports Park could also be a great venue for a family picnic or child's birthday party.
Taku Lake Park North
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Taku+Lake+Park+North/@61.1519392,-149.8816769,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c899d571e75a5f:0x9515d245ebaed821!8m2!3d61.1519392!4d-149.879483" target="_blank">Taku Lake Park North, 100 E 76th Ave, Anchorage, AK 99518</a>
<a href="https://anchorageparkfoundation.org/current-projects/taku-lake-park/" target="_blank">Taku Lake Park North</a> is a wonderful option for water-based outdoor fun. Walking the dog by the lake, kayaking, floating on the water, and fishing are all perfect ways to spend the day at Taku Lake. This park is a former rock quarry that features beautiful tree-lined water features, Alaskan wildlife, and a covered picnic area. The central location is convenient for people living in town, and the circular walking and biking trail is good for casual strolls and relaxing walks. Enjoy watching the beaver activity and swans, ducks, and other water fowl while walking around the lake. Note before you go that parking may be limited during peak hours.
For the weekends and vacations where you and your family would love the Alaskan park experience without the long drive, Anchorage municipal parks allow you to escape into nature without ever leaving the city limits. Whether you just want to check out a park for a weekend or hike your way through every city park in Anchorage, we hope you enjoy the experience to the fullest and take advantage of the Alaskan wilderness.2020-05-19T12:48:00-07:002020-06-12T12:39:23-07:00Ryan Tollefsentag:anchoragerealestate.com,2012-09-20:3782Where Are the Best Yoga Studios in Anchorage, AK?<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1716/image/yoga-in-anchorage.jpg" alt="Where Are the Best Yoga Studios in Anchorage, AK?" />There are many reasons to start doing yoga. Some people like the meditative aspects, while some like the physical benefits. No matter your reasoning, the first thing to do when you decide to start on your yoga journey is to find a studio that fits your physical and philosophical needs. To get you started in your search, here are some of the best yoga studios in <a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/anchorage-homes-for-sale/">Anchorage</a>.
Anchorage Yoga
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Anchorage+Yoga/@61.1887092,-149.8986034,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c897c24aa047f7:0x108347e57394e65f!8m2!3d61.1887092!4d-149.8964094" target="_blank">Anchorage Yoga, 701 W 36th Ave, Anchorage, AK 99503</a>
<a href="https://anchorageyogacycle.com" target="_blank">Anchorage Yoga</a> opened their doors to the public back in 2010 and have spent the last ten years helping people improve their health, mind and body. They offer more than 80 classes a week, so they can accommodate nearly any schedule and do their best to create a challenging but safe environment. They also offer a full set of cycling classes, so you can work on either yoga or cycling depending on what you need on a given day. As a boutique studio, the class sizes are small with a personable atmosphere that strikes a balance between challenging and playful.
Deha Yoga
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Deha+Yoga/@61.188691,-149.9666306,12z/data=!4m8!1m2!2m1!1sdeha+yoga+anchorage!3m4!1s0x56c899966d6c38b7:0xe40ddff578453b11!8m2!3d61.118539!4d-149.8656924" target="_blank">Deha Yoga, 11260 Old Seward Hwy, Anchorage, AK 99515</a>
<a href="https://dehayoga.com" target="_blank">Deha Yoga</a> aims to offer a safe, supportive instructional environment to promote physical, mental, and spiritual growth. "Deha" means "soul covering" in Sanskrit, referencing the human body. Deha Yoga teaches how to work on communication between the spiritual and mental aspects and the soul to improve health holistically. These concepts are what their mantra, "through the body, connect to the soul" is based on. If you would like to embrace the challenge, Deha Yoga may be a good choice for you.
Kathy's Yoga
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Kathy's+Yoga/@61.207429,-149.8250632,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c8965aeac3061b:0x694968915ae8eb3d!8m2!3d61.207429!4d-149.8228691" target="_blank">Kathy's Yoga, 1519 Airport Heights Dr, Anchorage, AK 99508</a>
<a href="http://places.singleplatform.com/kathys-yoga/menu?ref=google" target="_blank">Kathy's Yoga</a> has a smaller offering than some larger studios, but Kathy has been teaching yoga since the 1980s and even has second-generation students. She has a reputation for being attentive, kind, and relaxed, which is why she has been able to keep students for decades at a time and work with all levels to help them focus on building the connection between spirit and body. At Kathy's, the focus is not on straining and sweating, but on spiritual practice. She practices Iyengar style yoga, which is focused on precision and alignment, and is careful to work with any limitations that her students may have to create a safe learning environment.
Spirit Path Yoga and Wellness
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Spirit+Path+Yoga+and+Wellness/@61.1954857,-149.8946212,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c897bc77344c4f:0x3c52cdd8cf157818!8m2!3d61.1954857!4d-149.8924272" target="_blank">Spirit Path Yoga and Wellness, 1443 W Northern Lights Blvd, Anchorage, AK 99503</a>
<a href="https://www.spiritpathyoga.com" target="_blank">Spirit Path Yoga and Wellness</a> isn't just a yoga studio; it's also a full health clinic offering massage therapy, acupuncture, naturopathic medicine, energy healing, and occupational and physical therapy. Spirit Path has a goal of overall wellness, including traditional and modern treatments on top of the sort of healing yoga provides. The team at Spirit Path will try to individualize everything based on your needs, from poses to therapy, so you can try to connect with your best self.
No matter what style of yoga you may want to pursue, remember there are many styles and environments of yoga. Even if one practice isn't for you, that doesn't mean yoga as a whole doesn't suit you; you may just need a different environment, different teacher, or different approach. Whether new to Anchorage and continuing your practice or a native to the city and just getting started, there's a yoga option for you if you're willing to get out of your comfort zone.2020-05-12T15:34:00-07:002020-06-12T12:40:38-07:00Ryan Tollefsentag:anchoragerealestate.com,2012-09-20:3783Best Restaurants in Anchorage, AK for Food Delivery<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1716/image/food-delivery-restaurants-in-anchorage.jpg" alt="Best Restaurants in Anchorage, AK for Food Delivery" />There are times when ordering take out and having it delivered are necessary—and other times when we just feel like staying home. Fortunately, there are numerous restaurants that deliver in <a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/anchorage-homes-for-sale/">Anchorage</a>, so there's no need to go anywhere. Check out these top delivery choices around town that locals rave about.
Lahn Pad Thai
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Lahn+Pad+Thai/@61.1400881,-149.8840092,13.51z/data=!4m8!1m2!2m1!1sLahn!3m4!1s0x56c899ddd94eb601:0x38569ed03628d785!8m2!3d61.138298!4d-149.843428" target="_blank">Lahn Pad Thai, 2101 Abbott Rd #7, Anchorage, AK 99507</a>
Support a family owned Anchorage restaurant the next time a craving for Asian food arises by ordering delivery from <a href="http://places.singleplatform.com/lahn-pad-thai/menu?ref=google" target="_blank">Lahn Pad Thai</a>. The staff is always happy to spice each dish to order, and the locals love their fixed-price lunch deals and fast delivery service. Lahn's also has vegetarian-friendly options available on their extensive menu.
Milano's Pizzeria
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Milano's+Pizzeria/@61.1883251,-149.9085427,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c897dd52049315:0xd7101c8a71ed30f!8m2!3d61.1883251!4d-149.9063487" target="_blank">Milano's Pizzeria, 1207 W 36th Ave Anchorage, AK 99503</a>
<a href="http://milanosalaska.com/" target="_blank">Milano's Pizzeria</a> began as a pizza hotspot and is best known for having the best cheesesteaks in Anchorage. However, their pizzas, sub sandwiches and gourmet calzones are prized as well for having the freshest ingredients. Guests can enjoy wings, pasta dishes and more at this family owned restaurant, and they are given high reviews for having super fast, friendly delivery service.
Urban Greens Subs & Salads
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Urban+Greens+Subs+%26+Salads/@61.2193618,-149.8978961,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c8bd871cfa3f9d:0xdf7520fe52c3e231!8m2!3d61.2193618!4d-149.8957022" target="_blank">Urban Greens Subs & Salads, 304 G Street, Anchorage, AK 99501</a>
Those seeking a healthy breakfast, lunch or specialty boxes for a corporate gathering will want to try out <a href="https://www.urbangreensak.com/" target="_blank">Urban Greens Subs & Salads</a>. Dine-in, take out and delivery are available for patrons who love soups, subs, salads and traditional American foods along with service that comes with a smile.
Urban Greens Subs & Salads is always ready to accommodate special dietary needs, and there are numerous vegan and vegetarian friendly options available. This eatery also uses freshly baked breads from the local French Oven Bakery, and their cookies are reputed to be out of this world. With an eye towards freshness and supporting local farmers, Urban Greens hand-picks their produce.
Red Chair Café
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/The+Red+Chair+Cafe/@61.218658,-149.879857,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c89628abb400ff:0x5a5a4452eb029853!8m2!3d61.218658!4d-149.8776631" target="_blank">Red Chair Café, 337 E 4th Ave South Entrance, Anchorage, AK 99501</a>
<a href="http://theredchaircafe.com/" target="_blank">Red Chair Café</a> is one of Anchorage's best breakfast and lunch venues that also offers delivery. Enjoy local cuisine, vegetarian fare and even beer and wine at this contemporary café. By far, breakfast favorites are the orange and almost crusted French toast and their hearty omelettes. Locally owned and operated, the café is open daily, making it easy to stop by for a quick bite or call in your order when hunger strikes.
Taco King
For over 25 years, the <a href="https://tacokingak.com/" target="_blank">Taco King</a> brand has been bringing the finest flavors of Mexico to Alaskans. With 8 convenient locations in Anchorage, there is sure to be one nearby. Voted as the best Mexican food in the state, Taco King has become a staple for many locals as a place to hang out with friends and family. If quality ingredients, a great atmosphere and stellar customer service are desired, try Taco King's delivery, pickup or dine-in service.
When it isn't feasible or desirable to go in person to these favorite restaurants, rely on these fast and friendly food delivery services in Anchorage.2020-05-07T09:23:00-07:002020-06-12T12:41:42-07:00Ryan Tollefsentag:anchoragerealestate.com,2012-09-20:3779The Best Lunch Spots in Anchorage, AK<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1716/image/lunch-spots-in-anchorage.jpg" alt="The Best Lunch Spots in Anchorage, AK" />No matter what you're craving, <a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/anchorage-homes-for-sale/">Anchorage</a> has a great variety of local restaurants. We hope you check out and enjoy these lunch spots in town.
Tommy's Burger Stop
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Tommy's+Burger+Stop/@61.1935798,-149.906703,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c897db7c12a66f:0xa73c89fdde09f2cf!8m2!3d61.1935798!4d-149.9045091" target="_blank">Tommy's Burger Stop, 1106 W 29th Pl, Anchorage, AK 99503</a>
It's hard to say no to a good burger, and <a href="https://tommysburgerstop.com" target="_blank">Tommy's Burger Stop</a> takes that to heart. They're hard to miss from the street; it's painted at least four colors on the outside and is even more eclectic inside. They serve massive gourmet burgers made from 100% USDA beef from Australia with a healthy layer of Cajun seasoning and a perfect sear. They have classic American-style burgers, specialty burgers like the Aloha and Stella Bleu Burger, and a whole selection of po-boys and philly cheese steaks. For lighter fare, they serve Philly style or chicken salads in nearly as many varieties of the burgers. You can order a side of beer-battered onion rings or Cajun french fries while you wait, and don't forget to save room for their specialty desserts and floats.
Queen of Sheba Ethiopian Restaurant
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Queen+of+Sheba+Ethiopian+restaurant/@61.1947285,-149.8940071,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c89771e509872d:0xb52d382070992842!8m2!3d61.1947285!4d-149.8918131" target="_blank">Queen of Sheba Ethiopian Restaurant, 2813 Dawson St, Anchorage, AK 99503</a>
<a href="https://queenofshebaalaska.com" target="_blank">Queen of Sheba Ethiopian Restaurant</a> is a great option if you have a mixed group of veggie and meat eaters, since they have a variety of vegetarian, beef, chicken, and lamb options. Queen of Sheba is owned and operated by husband-wife duo Dawit Ogbamichael and Samrawit Haile, and their opening in 2018 filled the Ethiopian food void in Anchorage. Despite a huge variety of international cuisines, Anchorage was missing an Ethiopian option until recently. So sit back, relax, and enjoy hearty plates of shirro (ground chick peas and jalapeños), yebeg alicha (a savory lamb dish seasoned with turmeric, ginger, and onions), or doro wot (a spicy barbecue stew with chicken drumsticks). Everything is served with injera, a sourdough flatbread, and the chef will keep injera coming until you run out of food on your plate to eat it with.
Pho Lena
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Pho+Lena/@61.1898685,-149.9096275,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c897dc7ed1c04d:0x1ffda26b0944a36c!8m2!3d61.1898685!4d-149.9074335" target="_blank">Pho Lena, 3311 Spenard Rd, Anchorage, AK 99503</a>
<a href="http://www.pholena.com" target="_blank">Pho Lena</a> has four locations in Anchorage spanning across the city (Spenard, Northway Mall, Downtown, and East), so you'll always be near one if you're feeling pho for lunch. They have dine-in, take-out, and delivery options, so it's a great option for a Saturday lunch on the go or getting it delivered to the office. Pho is a great light lunch option, especially when it's cold outside, and their broth is absolutely amazing. Besides pho, they have a variety of hot and cold dishes, soups, appetizers, vegetarian options, salads and rice dishes, so there's something for everyone. The menu isn't the exact same at all four locations, so make sure you check you're looking at the right menu before ordering.
Antonio's Greek Bakery and Café
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Antonios+Greek+Bakery+%26+Caf%C3%A9/@61.1925441,-149.9166301,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c897c2ffffffff:0x23d10d763191aac8!8m2!3d61.1925441!4d-149.914436" target="_blank">Antonio's Greek Bakery and Café, 3020 Minnesota Dr Suite 19A, Anchorage, AK 99517</a>
<a href="https://www.antoniosgreekbakery.com" target="_blank">Antonio's Greek Bakery and Café</a> rounds out our list today because it's been an Anchorage staple since 2015. Antonio's offers a variety of authentic Greek cuisine and readily available baked goods. They have options for lighter and heartier dishes as well as a variety of traditionally vegetarian options. If you're in the mood for moussaka (an eggplant, potato, zucchini, and beef casserole), lemon chicken, or dolmades (stuffed cabbage rolls), Antonio's has your back. If you're looking for something quick to satisfy a sweet tooth, try the kourambiethes (butter cookies dusted with powdered sugar) or the baklava (a layered pastry flavored with honey, walnuts, and cinnamon).
No matter your craving or dietary preference, Anchorage has an option for you. While they're not internationally known for their food scene, Anchorage has a great variety of accessible local restaurants with great flavors from all around the globe.2020-05-05T08:55:00-07:002020-06-12T12:37:16-07:00Ryan Tollefsentag:anchoragerealestate.com,2012-09-20:3778All About Anchorage Brewing Companies: What You Need to Know<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1716/image/breweries-in-anchorage.jpg" alt="All About Anchorage Brewing Companies: What You Need to Know" />Anchorage is the place to be! Whether you're looking for a fun place to have a drink or someplace to enjoy time out with friends, you can find a place to go in Anchorage. There are many hopping breweries in the <a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/anchorage-homes-for-sale/">Anchorage</a> area, where you can enjoy a night out with friends or a date with someone special. Here's what you need to know.
Anchorage Brewing Company
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Anchorage+Brewing+Company/@61.138793,-149.8843485,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c89627e5a49e31:0x31f26ca9cc73b5cf!8m2!3d61.138793!4d-149.8821545" target="_blank">Anchorage Brewing Company, 148 W 91st Ave, Anchorage, AK</a>
The <a href="https://anchoragebrewing.company/" target="_blank">Anchorage Brewing Company</a> is known for fabulous beers, including an excellent selection of IPAs and a fun, crowded brewery vibe. Are you a dog owner? Bring your dog! The Anchorage Brewing Company also has an excellent outdoor patio where you can enjoy the sunset as you drink your favorite beverage, whether that's a stout, IPA or a delicious blond ale. This Anchorage favorite is one of the most popular venues in the city.
Girdwood Brewing Company
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Girdwood+Brewing+Company/@60.960298,-149.1260682,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c87b34267d37ef:0x19193fbc9f0aed32!8m2!3d60.960298!4d-149.1238743" target="_blank">Girdwood Brewing Company, 2700 Alyeska Highway, Girdwood, AK</a>
Located in <a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/girdwood_real_estate/">Girdwood</a>, the <a href="https://girdwoodbrewing.com/" target="_blank">Girdwood Brewing Company</a> is known for having a beautiful view from their timber-framed tap room. They sell beers in 25-ounce to-go cans if you need a beer on the go. They also offer merchandise and gift cards and provide food trucks in summer. People who have visited the Girdwood Brewing Company comment on the pleasant staff as well as the delicious beer. Enjoy!
King Street Brewing Company
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/King+Street+Brewing+Company/@61.139161,-149.8816656,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c899d4a486c40b:0x7f5f28f11c0a2332!8m2!3d61.139161!4d-149.8794716" target="_blank">King Street Brewing Company, 9050 King St, Anchorage, AK</a>
<a href="http://www.kingstreetbrewing.com/" target="_blank">King Street Brewing Company</a> is a production microbrewery equipped with a tasting room for people who want to drop in. Whether you want a place to pick up some beer, or you're looking for a place to enjoy an extended visit, King Street Brewing Company is the place to be.
They also sell kegs and growlers to go for people who would like to bring their drinks home. For people who want to drink and eat, King Street Brewery provides food trucks that are parked outside most afternoons and evenings.
Midnight Sun Brewing Company
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Midnight+Sun+Brewing+Co./@61.1472278,-149.8467579,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c89762054825e5:0x83bcc1c6315185d5!8m2!3d61.1472278!4d-149.8445639" target="_blank">Midnight Sun Brewing Company, 8111 Dimond Hook Dr., Anchorage, AK</a>
The <a href="https://midnightsunbrewing.com/" target="_blank">Midnight Sun Brewing Company</a> is famous for being Anchorage's oldest brewing company. They're also known for serving excellent food and brewing fabulous beers. Stop in for samples of their newest ales, and stay for the enormous, well-made sandwiches. People who visit comment that the neighborhood where Midnight Sun is located is a little industrial, but the experience inside is just as enjoyable.
Double Shovel Cider Company
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Double+Shovel+Cider+Company/@61.1684988,-149.8937322,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c8978e652d2afb:0x87782501776ea39!8m2!3d61.1684988!4d-149.8915383" target="_blank">Double Shovel Cider Company,502 W 58th Ave Unit C, Anchorage, AK</a>
Known as the first micro cidery in Alaska, <a href="https://doubleshovelcider.co/" target="_blank">Double Shovel Cider Company</a> crafts superior cider for people who love to drink it. Drinks range from dry to semi-sweet. From May through September, you can enjoy their outdoor patio! Double Shovel sells food from a food truck along with apple cider in a range of different flavors. If you're a cider-nut, the Double Shovel Cider Company is an excellent venue where you can get your fill of cider of all flavors and styles.
Moving to Anchorage? Check Out These Breweries!
Are you <a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/blog/what-do-you-need-to-successfully-move-to-anchorage-ak/">moving to Anchorage</a>, or visiting Anchorage sometime soon? If so, you should check out the many breweries in the Anchorage area. You'll love the variety of different kinds of beer, and you'll also love the enjoyable atmosphere you encounter at these best breweries. Whether you're a visitor or a long-time resident, we encourage you to take time to visit these breweries.2020-04-21T08:59:00-07:002020-06-12T12:36:08-07:00Ryan Tollefsentag:anchoragerealestate.com,2012-09-20:3777Must-See Historic Monuments in Anchorage, AK<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1716/image/historic-monuments-in-anchorage.jpg" alt="The Best Historic Monuments in Anchorage, AK" />Those seeking to explore the best historic monuments in Anchorage, AK will have plenty of options. From the original four neighborhoods to preserved homes of the community's most notable people and standalone statues, the rich history here can lead to days of exploration. Here are some must-see historic sites around <a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/">Anchorage</a>.
Historic Downtown Anchorage Walking Tours
One of the best ways to delve into the city's past and present treasures is via one of the <a href="https://www.alaska.org/guide/downtown-anchorage-walking-tour" target="_blank">Historic Downtown Anchorage Walking Tours</a>. By far, the Four Original Neighborhoods experience is the most popular tour. Book this one if you want to really delve into learning more about how people lived, produced food and sustained in this extreme environment before modern conveniences were the norm.
Experienced guides share the colorful past of the community while showing the remains and rebirth of downtown Anchorage after the massive earthquake of 1964. Wear comfortable shoes and be ready to tour the epicenter of the hardest hit areas such as Government Hill and the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail. Of course, local historic homes and monuments are included with the tour, so book this one early and when the weather is warm.
Resolution Park & Captain Cook Monument
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Resolution+Park/@61.2192496,-149.9059948,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c8bd841f812af3:0xd70a9de2044445cf!8m2!3d61.2192496!4d-149.903806" target="_blank">Resolution Park & Captain Cook Monument, 320 L St, Anchorage, AK 99501</a>
Another great historic site in Anchorage is the beautiful <a href="https://www.alaska.org/detail/resolution-park-captain-cook-monument" target="_blank">Resolution Park and Captain Cook Monument</a>. Captain Cook never reached the city proper as he explored Cook Inlet on the HMS Resolution, but his ship's master William Bligh purportedly did. Check out the bronze statue honoring Cook that stands proudly looking out to sea.
And there's a good bit to look at here besides the statue! Views of Susitna Mountain from the dock are unbeatable, and on clear days, one can often see Mt. McKinley in the backdrop to the north. Folks come here all year long to enjoy the inspiring sunsets and experience the views that Cook and his crew did during their short journey here.
Oscar Anderson House Museum
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Oscar+Anderson+House+Museum/@61.2185647,-149.9081978,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c8bd83ef022dbf:0x1c81c9362a68fae!8m2!3d61.2185647!4d-149.9060092" target="_blank">Oscar Anderson House Museum, 420 M Street, Anchorage, AK</a>
The oldest house in the city is also the only one that is available for tours routinely. <a href="http://alaskapreservation.org/gallery/oscar-anderson-house-museum/" target="_blank">The Oscar Anderson House Museum</a> invites visitors to come inside and experience what life for the average family was like back in 1915. Honored with a spot on the National Historic Register in 1978, the home was lovingly restored and opened as a museum in the early 1980s.
Oscar Anderson claims to be the 18th person to arrive at Ship Creek's ‘Tent City' in 1915, and he was by far one of the community's most influential businessmen. The museum pays homage to his multiple legacies in meat packing, air transportation, coal mining and publishing. Tours are available on a limited basis and are by appointment only.
Crow Creek Historic Gold Mine
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Crow+Creek+Historic+Gold+Mine/@61.0006705,-149.0850222,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c86493f829e3f7:0x9c8525f7a7384984!8m2!3d61.0006705!4d-149.0828335" target="_blank">Crow Creek Historic Gold Mine, 601 Crow Creek Mine Road, Girdwood, AK 99587</a>
Pan for gold and learn all about the challenges of early explorers at <a href="https://www.crowcreekgoldmine.com/" target="_blank">Crow Creek Gold Mine</a> in <a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/girdwood_real_estate/">Girdwood</a>. Take an intense Prospector Tour if you're a serious gold seeker, or join one of the smaller tours that offer time for questions and panning lessons. Panners are provided with the pertinent tools like pans, buckets, shovels, etc., and there are private sluice boxes for rent that families often enjoy with their wee ones. It's a great day of gold hunting fun.
Historic activities in Anchorage await, so book your experiences today!2020-04-07T07:52:00-07:002020-06-12T11:39:44-07:00Ryan Tollefsentag:anchoragerealestate.com,2012-09-20:3230Best Places for Pet Boarding in Anchorage, AK
<img class=" img_box_right" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1716/image/uploads/agent-1/pet-boarding-in-anchorage.jpg" alt="Where Can You Board Your Pets in Anchorage, AK?" />There are plenty of fantastic and reputable places to get pet day care and pet boarding in <a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/property-search/search-form/">Anchorage</a>, AK. Here are some bark-worthy animal boarders in and around the city.
Southpaw Dog Boarding
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Southpaw+Dog+Boarding+in+Ak/@61.113762,-149.8653401,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c899974a3490c1:0x645d64dbad9144fe!8m2!3d61.1137594!4d-149.8631514" target="_blank">Southpaw Dog Boarding, 11801 Old Seward Hwy, Anchorage</a>
The friendly and experienced staff at <a href="http://southpawak.com/" target="_blank">Southpaw Dog Boarding</a> in Anchorage welcome cats and dogs of all breeds, sizes and temperaments. As Alaska's largest kennel, canines can play freely in the spacious 1000-square-foot indoor playground or head outdoors to the free roaming zones.
Felines have private quarters to cozily relax and receive individual petting and play time, while Southpaw Dog Boarding's dog guests have 25-foot secure runs, so they never feel cooped up. Special care pets are also welcome, as staff is trained to administer medications and cope with all types of animals' needs.
AK Must Love Dogs
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/AK+Must+Love+Dogs,+LLC/@61.1607029,-149.8372068,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c89761e8dfbf6f:0x93e3fdf9c3967eb!8m2!3d61.1607003!4d-149.8350182" target="_blank">AK Must Love Dogs, 6614 Lake Otis Pkwy, Anchorage</a>
The state-of-the-art facility at <a href="http://www.akmustlovedogs.com/" target="_blank">AK Must Love Dogs</a> lets guests know just how intensely pooches are adored at this pup day care and boarding kennel in Anchorage. Dogs can play the day away amid four fun-filled indoor areas or expel some pent-up energy amid one of the massive outdoor spaces.
Pets can stay solely for doggy daycare or spend the night in a lavish pet suite. However, those in daycare must be trained and follow basic commands. Grooming services are also available at AK Must Love Dogs by appointment only.
Arctic Tails
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Arctic+Tails/@61.1461537,-149.8545833,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c899d4b406a22f:0x17bbaf5c2b5d5e6d!8m2!3d61.1461511!4d-149.8523946" target="_blank">Arctic Tails,1601 E 84th Ave Ste #107, Anchorage</a>
<a href="http://www.arctictails.com" target="_blank">Arctic Tails</a> boarding and dog daycare in Anchorage touts the largest open-air indoor play area in the city and a massive outdoor zone with agility equipment. Slides, steps, bridges and much more awaits enthusiastic four-legged friends who love freedom.
This establishment is locally owned and operated and has no breed restrictions for daycare and boarding guests. They do have distinct areas for small and big dogs and keep ‘packs' with similar temperaments together. Overnight boarding in traditional and luxury kennels are available in addition to grooming services.
A Happy Dog Day Camp and Boarding
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/A+Happy+Dog+Day+Camp+and+Boarding/@61.1462669,-149.8874138,13z/data=!4m8!1m2!2m1!1sa+happy+dog+day+camp+and+boarding!3m4!1s0x56c897a3879e2455:0x7d6ba0f486737263!8m2!3d61.1811942!4d-149.8548272" target="_blank">A Happy Dog Day Camp and Boarding, 1525 East Tudor Road, Anchorage</a> and <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/A+Happy+Dog+Day+Camp+and+Boarding/@61.1461931,-149.8874138,13z/data=!4m8!1m2!2m1!1sa+happy+dog+day+camp+and+boarding!3m4!1s0x56c897a3865ef049:0x2cf2016bcc6753d7!8m2!3d61.1464959!4d-149.8495869" target="_blank">A Happy Dog Day Camp and Boarding, 8210 Hartzell Road, Anchorage</a>
Pups are all smiles after a stay at <a href="https://www.ahappydogdaycamp.com/" target="_blank">A Happy Dog Day Camp and Boarding</a> in Anchorage. A friendly place designed for friendly dogs, this is a place where canines can spend the day with a caring staff on an hourly, daily or weekly basis through a membership program. They even have a punch pass program that makes pet owners happy, too!
Overnight care in palatial kennels are available—just bring their favorite food and a blanket for their comfort. A Happy Dog Day Camp also hosts puppy birthday parties, offers dog transportation services, and grooming for enrolled members. Need someone to take a canine for a spin during the day? This provider also offers professional dog walking services.
With so many excellent places to take pets for daycare or boarding, you'll never need to ask neighbors or friends to provide these services—or feel guilty about leaving furry friends home alone for too long.
2020-03-17T09:05:00-07:002020-03-22T06:51:52-07:00Ryan Tollefsentag:anchoragerealestate.com,2012-09-20:3229Where are the Best Live Music Locations in Anchorage, AK?
<img class=" img_box_right" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1716/image/uploads/agent-1/live-music-in-anchorage.jpg" alt="4 Must-See Live Music Locations in Anchorage, AK" />Going out to hear live music can be a great way to spend a night on the town. It can be difficult to know where to start looking for the best music performances in a town like <a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/anchorage-homes-for-sale.php">Anchorage</a>, AK, whether you've done so before. For those looking for a great music venue, this list of 4 live music locations that are unique to Anchorage should make the task of finding a locale easier.
Moose's Tooth Pub & Pizzeria
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Moose's+Tooth+Pub+%26+Pizzeria/@61.1904251,-149.8710309,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c897b9ce6000df:0xd707e127588a8c6c!8m2!3d61.1904251!4d-149.8688422" target="_blank">Moose's Tooth Pub & Pizzeria, 3300 Old Seward Hwy, Anchorage, AK 99503</a>
<a href="https://moosestooth.net/" target="_blank">Moose's Tooth Pub & Pizzeria</a> is a must-visit restaurant any time of the year, but especially the first Thursday of every month. Year-round, they offer good food and drinks, as well as a relaxed atmosphere for their guests. The first Thursday of every month, however, is a special day at Moose's Tooth Pub & Pizzeria for one reason: The First Tap. On this day, they release a new beer from Broken Tooth Brewing, and they celebrate the occasion with live music from local and national bands. They host other live music events at the restaurant throughout the year, so be sure to keep an eye on the Moose's Tooth on social media.
Van's Dive Bar
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Van's+Dive+Bar/@61.217757,-149.8661673,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c8963ac8689b97:0x588c1b293baa4dad!8m2!3d61.217757!4d-149.8639786" target="_blank">Van's Dive Bar, 1027 E 5th Ave, Anchorage, AK 99501</a>
This tiny building hides <a href="https://www.facebook.com/vansdivebar/" target="_blank">Van's Dive Bar</a>, a local treasure and a live music hotspot. All weekend long, the bar is alive with the music of live musicians, starting at 8 p.m. on Thursday night and 9 p.m. every night after that. The bar offers drinks and affordable food to enjoy while the music plays. The venue itself has a rustic look despite being new, and that helps this little venue feel like an open, welcome space. Sunday nights even open the stage in an open mic event for anyone wanting to show their talent.
Time Out Lounge
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Time+Out+Lounge/@61.1790161,-149.8714154,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c897bd67a5936d:0x695647ef4825f49d!8m2!3d61.1790161!4d-149.8692266" target="_blank">Time Out Lounge, 4600 Old Seward Hwy, Anchorage, AK 99503</a>
The <a href="https://www.timeoutloungeak.com/" target="_blank">Time Out Lounge</a> is a long-standing bar where patrons can enjoy great food and music. Follow the neon signs out in front of the venue into a brightly lit bar with no entrance fee. Live music plays on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, and the venue features a multitude of local talent, including native Alaskan bands. For those interested in making their own live music, karaoke nights are offered on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Most importantly, though, the Time Out Lounge strives to treat everyone who walks into their venue like family and to make sure everyone enjoys themselves.
Anchorage City Limits Music Lounge
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Aviator+Hotel+Anchorage/@61.2187505,-149.8889149,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m8!3m7!1s0x56c896284904d103:0x6d55f848869d40d1!5m2!4m1!1i2!8m2!3d61.2187505!4d-149.8867262" target="_blank">Aviator Hotel, 239 W 4th Ave, Anchorage, AK 99501</a>
Hidden in plain sight in downtown Anchorage is the <a href="https://www.anchoragenightout.com/restaurants/378995/anchorage-city-limits-music-lounge" target="_blank">Anchorage City Limits Music Lounge</a>, a music venue for all ages and interests. The venue is attached to the Aviator Hotel, which has over 250 rooms for those looking for a place to stay. The lounge itself features live music throughout the week from national touring musicians, as well as everyone who wants to take the opportunity to get up onstage and perform. Aspiring musicians can mix and record music with the help of the resident sound engineer. Of course, there's homemade food and coffee to enjoy for those who'd rather listen to the music than perform some of their own.
Whatever sounds best to you for a night of live music, there's sure to be something in Anchorage that suits you. Choose one of the venues from this list, grab a friend, and have some fun with great music.
2020-03-10T05:37:00-07:002020-03-22T11:30:29-07:00Ryan Tollefsentag:anchoragerealestate.com,2012-09-20:3228What Events Are Taking Place This March in Anchorage, AK?
<img class=" img_box_right" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1716/image/uploads/agent-1/march-events-in-anchorage.jpg" alt="3 Must-See March Events in Anchorage, AK" />Spring is in the air, and that means getting out of the house and into town to find some fresh new events to participate in. If you live in <a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/communities.php">Anchorage</a>, you're in luck, because this month is bringing with it a host of fun events and activities to see. Here are 3 of the must-see March events taking place in Anchorage, AK.
Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/D+St+%26+W+4th+Ave,+Anchorage,+AK+99501/@61.2185591,-149.891603,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c89629d24d646f:0x4d142be6e71138f2!8m2!3d61.2185565!4d-149.8894143" target="_blank">Fourth Avenue and D Street, Anchorage, AK</a>
Date: March 7, 2020, at 10 a.m.
One of the most famous winter events in Alaska will be kicking off in March with the beginning of the <a href="https://iditarod.com/" target="_blank">Iditarod Sled Dog Race</a>. Starting in downtown Anchorage, local attendants will be able to witness the first 11 miles (ca. 18 km) of this massive race, which spans a whopping 975 miles (ca. 1,569 km) between Anchorage and Nome.
Locals interested in participating in the Iditarod's exciting kickoff have a number of options in and around the city. These include:
Visiting a kennel to visit the dogs pulling the sleds
Attending the Musher's Gala to meet the racers
Visit the official headquarters of the Iditarod at the Lakefront Anchorage
Follow the race via a flight-seeing package by air or on a snowmobiling tour
Volunteer to assist with the race
The Iditarod is an important celebration commemorating the times when dog sledding along the Iditarod trail was the only way for Alaskans to navigate their state in the winter. Plan to visit this exciting event to participate in an iconic slice of history.
The Shamrock Shuffle St. Patrick's Day Race
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Bear+Tooth+Theatrepub/@61.1960464,-149.9091681,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c897dbdc7efa33:0x8ccaf4b10d744ba3!8m2!3d61.1960438!4d-149.9069795" target="_blank">Bear Tooth Theatrepub, 1230 W 27th Ave, Anchorage, AK 99503</a>
Date: March 14, 2020, at 9:30 a.m.
St. Patrick's Day is coming fast, and the <a href="https://skinnyraven.com/event/shamrock-shuffle/" target="_blank">Shamrock Shuffle Race</a> is the perfect marathon to show your love for the holiday. This race, a 5K run hosted by Skinny Raven Sports, is great for running enthusiasts or beginners who want to get into the festive spirit by dressing up in their best Kelly Green and running a short marathon with their fellow "leprechauns". Attendants for this race will be given a green St. Patrick's Day beanie, a coupon for a drink at the pub where the race starts and ends, and a free pint glass to keep runners fresh!
This event both starts and ends in front of the Bear Tooth Theatrepub, making it easy to celebrate your success on the track with a refreshing pint for the holiday. Tickets are $40 in advance and $50 the day before.
Music City Hit Makers: The Songs, Their Stories, A Symphony
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Anchorage+Concert+Association/@61.2153703,-149.8929218,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c8962a24030281:0xb6395abe951a1f91!8m2!3d61.2153677!4d-149.890733" target="_blank">Anchorage Concert Association, 430 W 7th Ave #200, Anchorage, AK 99501</a>
Date: March 13, 2020, at 7:30 p.m.
Country music lovers in Anchorage should look no further than the <a href="https://www.anchorageconcerts.org/seasons/19-20-season/music-city-hit-makers" target="_blank">Music City Hit Makers</a> concert this March, hosted by the Anchorage Concert Association. Have you ever wondered what went on behind the scenes with the creation of your favorite country music? This concert offers a glimpse behind the curtain of 15 #1 songs in country music, sung not by the recording artists who made them famous, but by the award-winning songwriters who penned them. Hear songs made famous by Carrie Underwood, Kenny Chesney, and Blake Shelton in a new light by joining in on this Songwriter Concert. Tickets start at $33, so get yours today.
Anchorage is a great city to get out and enjoy new things. Try one of these upcoming March Anchorage events and learn more about what makes this city so exciting to visit.
2020-02-25T09:02:00-07:002020-03-22T03:13:59-07:00Ryan Tollefsentag:anchoragerealestate.com,2012-09-20:32274 Must-See Indoor Activities in Anchorage, AK
<img class=" img_box_right" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1716/image/uploads/agent-1/indoor-activities-in-anchorage.jpg" alt="Where Are The Best Indoor Activities In Anchorage, AK?" />Finding a place to enjoy a few hours of fun far away from the frigid <a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/communities.php">Anchorage</a> climate is on the forefront of many people's minds—especially during wintertime. Fortunately, this Alaskan city has plenty to offer in the arena of indoor entertainment and activities. Here are a few hotspots around town favorited by locals and visitors alike.
H?Oasis Indoor Waterpark
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/H2Oasis+Indoor+Waterpark/@61.1209398,-149.8559746,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c89994c9cc7167:0xef51ab14aff6c565!8m2!3d61.1209372!4d-149.8537859" target="_blank">H?Oasis Indoor Waterpark, 1520 O'Malley Rd, Anchorage, AK 99507</a>
Visitors are awash with joy with more than 56,000 square feet of wet and wild fun at <a href="https://www.h2oasiswaterpark.com/" target="_blank">H?Oasis Indoor Waterpark</a> in Anchorage. As one of the largest venues of its kind in the United States, this tropical island paradise is a welcomed respite amid the Last Frontier. Prepare for impressive water-powered coaster rides like the Master Blaster and the Flume Orange Slide, or take it slow and easy down the Lazy River or in the giant Alaskan Hot Tub. It's well worth the price of admission for an entire day of indoor fun—with or without the sun!
Alaska Museum of Science & Nature
Address: <a href="http://google.com/maps/place/Alaska+Museum+of+Science+and+Nature/@61.2251926,-149.8100577,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c8966fac30d1f7:0xe1975a757e6c2f92!8m2!3d61.22519!4d-149.807869" target="_blank">Alaska Museum of Science & Nature, 201 N Bragaw Street, Anchorage, AK 99508</a>
Alaska is rich with history, and there is no better place to soak in the anthropological wonders hailing from the region than the <a href="https://www.alaskamuseum.org/" target="_blank">Alaska Museum of Science & Nature</a>. The museum is designed to be both engaging and informative for visitors of all ages, and there is a special kid's zone where the most curious minds can seek and explore to their heart's content. It's a great place to spend the day, especially for those interested in learning more about Alaska's culture, geology, ecology and <a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/blog/the-history-of-anchorage.html">unique history</a>.
Putters Wild
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Putters+Wild/@61.1585946,-149.8607917,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c8977903adda33:0x5c45b7a16c78bd11!8m2!3d61.158592!4d-149.858603" target="_blank">Putters Wild, Quest Business Park, 1230 E 68th Ave #109, Anchorage, AK 99518</a>
Don't be fooled by the name, as there's more than wild putts going on at <a href="https://putterswild.com/" target="_blank">Putters Wild</a> in Anchorage on any given night. A highlight is the venue's indoor 3-D blacklight 18-hole miniature golf course. Wear special glasses to enjoy the special effects featuring eye-popping, ocean-themed murals and addictive interactive obstacles. The course even offers re-play chances and is wheelchair, stroller and walker accessible.
Love video games? There's no comparison to traditional gaming once you step inside one of the cutting-edge virtual reality booths. Step into a whole new world and battle the zombie apocalypse, take a roller coaster ride, test your sky-walking skills, or take on a friend (of foe) in a boxing match. Those who want a hands-on game can bounce over to the trampoline basketball course for a one-of-a-kind hooping experience.
Alaska Aviation Museum
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Alaska+Aviation+Museum/@61.1793752,-149.9744763,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c8bd4d57df1913:0xd26c9d5ae66d814d!8m2!3d61.1793726!4d-149.9722876" target="_blank">Alaska Aviation Museum, 4721 Aircraft Dr, Anchorage, AK 99502</a>
Spend the day at the world's largest seaplane base with a visit to the <a href="https://alaskaairmuseum.org/" target="_blank">Alaska Aviation Museum</a> in Anchorage. There are four impressive exhibition hangars filled with vintage air crafts for viewing and photo opportunities. Watch incoming and outbound flights from the Seybert Tower Deck, and test your skills on one of the virtual reality flight simulators. Visitors can even watch as volunteers perform restoration work on the planes in the museum.
With so many indoor activities in Anchorage, there's no need to stay at home on a rainy or snow-bound day, so go out and live it up at any of these fun destinations.
2020-02-18T07:05:00-07:002020-03-20T03:22:16-07:00Ryan Tollefsentag:anchoragerealestate.com,2012-09-20:3226What Healthcare Options Are There in Anchorage, AK?
<img class=" img_box_right" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1716/image/uploads/agent-1/healthcare-options-in-anchorage.jpg" alt="What Types of Healthcare Are Available in Anchorage?" />Despite the relative ease of accessing a practitioner, the healthcare options in the state of Alaska are driven by a number of factors. Here's what everyone should know before choosing a healthcare plan in <a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/anchorage_real_estate.php">Anchorage</a>.
Major Carriers
The major healthcare options in Anchorage include:
HealthNet
Agile
Blue Cross Blue Shield
Allied Coverage
UnitedHealthcare
Medicare/Medicaid
Other options include contacting brokers for a private policy. Costs tend to be high, with the average for those 60 or older at more than $1,100 and those under 25 paying $400. As in most states, residents can choose between a PPO, HMO, fee for service, and <a href="https://www.ehealthinsurance.com/health-plans/pos" target="_blank">point of service plan</a>.
Understanding the Plans
The right option for each person will depend on their health, needs, and goals. A preferred provider organization (PPO) will have higher upfront costs than a health maintenance organization (HMO), but will likely be more affordable overall if the patient is referred to a specialist. This is because an HMO plan requires the policyholder to see a doctor that is within their network as opposed to any doctor they wish.
A <a href="https://www.webmd.com/health-insurance/terms/fee-for-service" target="_blank">fee for service</a> will require the patient to pay about a fifth of their healthcare costs, which may be a better deal if the patient doesn't plan to see the doctor very often. Finally, a point of service will assign a primary care doctor but still allow some flexibility for the patient if they need to see other doctors.
Those in Anchorage are encouraged to plan for a number of scenarios. A managed care plan will not be able to negotiate favorable rates with certain providers—even if they're the best option available in the city. In Anchorage, the number of providers may not be as extensive as in other cities, so it helps to have an idea of the reputations (and corresponding prices) of different specialists.
What Will Health Insurance Cover?
Every policy is different, but most residents of Anchorage can expect health insurance to cover emergency care, surgery, lab tests, and doctor visits. It may even cover mental health services, addiction treatment, and chiropractic services. Infertility treatments, eye care, dental care, or cosmetic services are typically excluded.
The isolation of the state also means there are few teaching hospitals available. As such, the government enforces the <a href="https://stateofreform.com/featured/2018/07/medical-providers-stand-behind-80th-percentile-rule/" target="_blank">80th percentile rule</a>, which translates to carriers paying at least 80% of the average of what providers charge for each service. This does not mean insurance carriers pay 80% of all bills though. Total costs will depend on the specialist chosen and the type of plan.
When to Enroll
Those planning to move from a different state will be able to enroll at the time of their move. Other qualifying events include loss of healthcare insurance, a marriage, or having a child. Plan costs depend on the lifestyle, age, and income of the person applying. A smoker can expect to see higher costs given the health risks.
The providers in Anchorage (and other major cities) tend to command higher salaries in the state, which means that hospitals in Alaska tend to be more profitable than comparable facilities in the US. However, this doesn't mean that residents can't find top-notch care. It may mean that the costs will be more expensive though.
2020-02-12T06:45:00-07:002020-03-16T04:13:55-07:00Ryan Tollefsentag:anchoragerealestate.com,2012-09-20:3225What Events Are Taking Place This February in Anchorage, AK?
<img class=" img_box_right" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1716/image/uploads/agent-1/february-events-in-anchorage.jpg" alt="4 Must-See February Events in Anchorage, Alaska" />Anchorage is a bustling hub in Alaska with plenty of things to see and do. Whether you're a long-time Anchorage resident, have <a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/blog/moving-to-anchorage-alaska.html">newly moved to Anchorage</a>, or are a visitor, you're sure to find something fun to do in this city. Here are four of our favorite events taking place in <a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/communities.php">Anchorage</a>, AK this February.
Sitka Music Festival: Winter Classics
Dates: February 7 - 9, 2020
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Sitka+Summer+Music+Festival/@57.0514074,-135.3270711,17z/data=!4m13!1m7!3m6!1s0x540467bdda59fc9b:0xe5e2c49d2dcb9243!2s104+Jeff+Davis+St,+Sitka,+AK+99835!3b1!8m2!3d57.0514045!4d-135.3248771!3m4!1s0x540467bddbc99979:0xe759813e1687199d!8m2!3d57.051524!4d-135.324289" target="_blank">Sitka Summer Music Festival, 104 Jeff Davis St, Sitka, AK 99835</a>
The <a href="https://sitkamusicfestival.org/events/anchorage-concert-series/" target="_blank">Sitka Music Festival: Winter Classics</a> event is a spin on the Sitka Summer Music Festival taking place February 7 - 9 in <a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/sitka-homes-for-sale.php">Sitka</a>. This event celebrates Beethoven's 250th birthday with performances by the Ariel String Quartet, cellist Zuill Baily, and pianist Eduard Zilberkant.
Members with a season subscription enjoy reduced rates for all three concerts, which will run approximately 2 hours. Though the shows begin at 7:30 p.m., ticket holders may come a half hour early for a free discussion with the artist and attend a reception immediately after the show.
Alaska Zoo's Zoo Lights
Dates: All of February
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Alaska+Zoo/@61.1248404,-149.7952149,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c89a04f821661f:0xa18c6267f53e05ea!8m2!3d61.1248378!4d-149.7930209" target="_blank">The Alaska Zoo, 4731 O'Malley Rd, Anchorage, AK 99507</a>
<a href="https://www.alaskazoo.org/new-events?view=calendar&month=02-2020" target="_blank">Zoo Lights</a> by the Alaska Zoo is a two-month event taking place from January 2 to March 1, 2020, featuring a zoo full of electric light animals to explore after dark. The entire zoo will be lit up with these animal displays, featuring colorful and playful animals for children and families to learn about. The event runs from 6:30–8:30 p.m. every Thursday through Sunday. It is open to people of all ages to visit and appreciate.
The Moth Mainstage
Date: February 13, 2020
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Atwood+Concert+Hall/@61.2173135,-149.8958136,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c8bd87503be2b7:0x8f1b4193ce0bed3!8m2!3d61.2173109!4d-149.8936195" target="_blank">Atwood Concert Hall, 621 West 6th Avenue Suite ACH, Anchorage, AK 99501</a>
<a href="https://www.anchorageconcerts.org/seasons/19-20-season/moth-mainstage" target="_blank">The Moth Mainstage</a> is a storytelling event sponsored by Alaska Public Media to bring people together over the power of stories. Local community voices will team up with national voices to tell stories that express the depth of human strength and emotions with events that include a story time theater and "tales around the campfire" for guests to enjoy.
Part documentary, part theater, and part inter-community bonding, The Moth Mainstage is a must-see event when it rolls around to Anchorage this February.
Fur Rondy/Anchorage Fur Rendezvous
Dates: February 28 - March 8, 2020
Address: Around Anchorage, AK
The <a href="http://www.furrondy.net/" target="_blank">Anchorage Fur Rendezvous</a>, or Fur Rondy, is a massive Anchorage festival sprawling across ten days throughout the months of February and March. Founded in 1935, this event celebrates culture of Anchorage while bringing its people together as a community—serving as a significant festival in the history and tradition of Anchorage. There's never a dull moment at the Fur Rendezvous, with events like the Snowshoe Softball Tournament, Snow Sculpture Competition, World Championship Dog Sled Races, the Charlotte Jensen Native Arts Market, and more for visitors to explore.
Enjoy the fireworks, the Fur Rondy Carnival, Outhouse Races, Frostbite Footrace, Fur Rondy Blanket Toss, and countless other events sure to keep anyone entertained over the course of these ten days. Stop by and learn just what the Fur Rondy is all about!
Visit Anchorage, AK Today
Anchorage is a great place to visit and live, with exciting things to see and do at any time of the year. Get out of the house and enjoy these Anchorage February events for outdoor fun, music, and more.
2020-01-28T06:28:00-07:002020-03-20T05:40:29-07:00Ryan Tollefsentag:anchoragerealestate.com,2012-09-20:3224What to Expect from Driving Times in Alaska
<img class=" img_box_right" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1716/image/uploads/agent-1/commute-times-in-anchorage.jpg" alt="How Much Time to Allow for Daily Anchorage Commutes" />Gorgeous landscapes and the promise of fun outdoor activities are constantly bringing new people to live in <a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/anchorage_real_estate.php">Anchorage</a>, Alaska. As the population increases, however, so do commute times, causing roads to become evermore congested with traffic. To select a place to live, it is important to explore just how long the daily commute can take. In an effort to help everyone explore this topic in detail, here's a rundown of the current commute times in Alaska.
Preferred Transportation Options
Although Anchorage is a relatively dense cityscape, the surrounding area is mostly rural stretches of land with just single roads connecting them. This tends to allow the major thoroughfares to get rather congested at peak commute times. It also keeps officials in the area from establishing dedicated <a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/blog/public-transportation-in-anchorage.html">public transportation</a> routes out of the main city area.
For that reason, more than 78 percent of people commute alone in their personal vehicle while 11 percent carpool with others. Only 1.7 percent take mass transit, as there are minimal convenient bus lines to consider. Biking is only accessible to those who live within the cityscape or just along the outskirts. As a result, only about 1 percent of commuters ride their bike to and from work every day.
Average Commute Times
Commute times in Anchorage, Alaska, vary considerably depending on which direction people are traveling. In the morning, it is much faster to commute from Anchorage to the surrounding areas than the opposite direction. Afternoon commutes, on the other hand, experience the heaviest flow of traffic going away from the main cityscape. This happens because most people live along the outskirts and travel to the city to work.
On average, commutes take about 19 minutes to complete each way, leaving people in their personal vehicles or carpool arrangement for about 40 minutes a day. In comparison, the <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2018/02/22/study-states-with-the-longest-and-shortest-commutes.html" target="_blank">average across the rest of the United States</a> is about 26 minutes each way.
The local bus lines run across the cityscape, but they do not to take people toward their homes on the outskirts of town. The schedule recently changed to accommodate the growing influx of commuters, running every 30 minutes at many stops. People can usually make it to their destination within the city in about a half hour as a result of this change.
Since there are not many dedicated bike lanes, commuting by bicycle can prove a bit time-consuming. Despite this, the popularity of this commute option has been growing by leaps and bounds in the last few decades. In fact, since 1990, the number of people commuting by bike has grown by 150 percent. For some, their trip only takes a few minutes, while others pedal hard for up to 30 minutes to get to and from work.
Future Improvements in the Work
Officials have their eye on efficiency with many improvement plans in the works for the coming years. In an effort to make Anchorage commute times shorter for all their residents, bus lines are expanding their service ranges and putting more buses on each route. This has recently reduced the pickup delay between bus stops from 60 minutes to just 30 minutes.
They are also <a href="https://www.muni.org/Departments/transit/ShareARide/Pages/default.aspx" target="_blank">establishing helpful ride share programs</a>, which use 13-passenger vans to shuttle people around. Unlike the bus lines, these vans take people well out of the cityscape, transporting riders to and from their homes and places of work.
When fully loaded, each of these vans can reduce traffic by up to 13 personal vehicles and reduce strain on local bus lines. Commuters can focus their attention on their work or low-key hobbies rather than driving, helping them arrive at their destination well-rested and ready to perform at their best.
As Anchorage, Alaska, grows more popular each year, officials have to continually make changes to keep commute times favorable for all. Through their efforts, they can ensure no one has to spend more than an hour in their cars going to and from work, as is the norm in many other major cities.
2020-01-21T09:55:00-07:002021-04-07T09:54:09-07:00Ryan Tollefsentag:anchoragerealestate.com,2012-09-20:3223What School Districts Are There In Anchorage, AK?
<img class=" img_box_right" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1716/image/uploads/agent-1/school-districts-in-anchorage.jpg" alt="What Should I Know About the Anchorage School District?" />There's only one school district in <a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/anchorage_real_estate.php">Anchorage</a>, AK, and its leaders manage more than 90 schools. Anchorage is the largest city in Alaska, and the Anchorage School District is responsible for around 50,000 children spread out across all institutions. The district is there to promote learning and success by offering a variety of academic options to children and their families. Learn more about how the district functions and how parents can make better decisions for their kids if they choose to live in this incredible state.
Access and Opportunity
Inclusion is the key philosophy of the school district, and parents and children can see it every move they make. The school district celebrates diversity in the city. The district welcomes and includes people of all cultures, religions, and perspectives, regardless of the language they speak or the heritage they come from.
When everyone has access to the same opportunities, the school district hopes to inspire true equality across the board. The <a href="https://www.asdk12.org/" target="_blank">Anchorage School District</a> is one of the most diverse in the country, with children from nearly every background taking part in one of the many schools around the city.
The State of the District
According to the district statistics, the Anchorage School District has strong numbers when it comes to proficiency. Their data states that 90% of graduations will meet the expectations for both math and reading, and the same number are on track to graduate. Students state that teachers are, on the whole, encouraging and involved. School attendance is one of the main concerns, and teachers and administrators discourage chronic absenteeism however they can. It's a sign that people are paying attention to kids both when they're at school and when they're not.
The school board has <a href="https://www.asdk12.org/domain/1184" target="_blank">several core beliefs</a>:
Determining the general direction of the district
Creating and enforcing policies that support the direction
Holding the superintendent accountable for implementing operations according to directives
Being strong role models for students based on core principles
The Potential of Students
The school district believes that they need to set high expectations if children are to achieve them. To accomplish this, the district provides a safe and effective environment for kids to learn, and strives to be open and transparent with parents and the public alike. The district is also looking ahead in an attempt to keep pace with the changing expectations of modern life. No matter what might happen in the future, the district is committed to giving its students the edge in life. And while some schools may be better performing than others, it's comforting for all parents to know they have someone in their corners at the district.
Anchorage, <a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/communities.php">Alaska</a> has some truly amazing people living in it and a spirit that cannot be denied. Those that attend schools here are given life lessons that they won't find elsewhere—both within school walls and without. Because the district has made it their mission to give children the care and resources they need to thrive, parents can rest assured that their kids will graduate with the skills they need to make it in life.
2020-01-14T11:21:00-07:002020-06-12T11:13:48-07:00Ryan Tollefsentag:anchoragerealestate.com,2012-09-20:3222January Events in Anchorage, AK
<img class=" img_box_right" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1716/image/uploads/agent-1/january-events-in-anchorage.jpg" alt="What to Do in Anchorage During January" />January in <a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/anchorage_real_estate.php">Anchorage</a> may not always seem like the ideal time to leave the house given the temperatures, wind, and darkened skies. Luckily, event planners in the state know exactly what residents and locals need to put their reservations aside—at least for a few hours or so. Here are some events worth checking out at the very beginning of 2020.
Zoo Lights
When the night goes black, <a href="https://www.alaskazoo.org/new-events?view=calendar&month=01-2020" target="_blank">Zoo Lights</a> brings the color back. The Alaska Zoo is stringing up enough lights to dazzle and delight the senses for all. This family-friendly display illuminates walkways, animal exhibits, and more. This event takes place Thursday through Sunday in January, and the cost is $10 for non-members ages three and over. This fee will also include admission to the zoo.
The Alaska Zoo has thought of a few clever ways to keep visitors coming back for more. For 50 years, the zoo has been caring for sick and orphaned wildlife and offering conservation programs to protect the natural habitats of the many creatures that live in the state.
Guests will also find a Wolf and Tiger Encounter exhibit during the month of January. Both encounters take guests behind the scenes to a family that has been working with zookeepers for quite some time. Meet the wolf siblings and the tiger brothers and find out more about their daily routines. Both encounters will be held Wednesday and Friday through Sunday in January. The cost is $95 per person. (Please note that the encounter tickets are sold separately.)
When: Various times throughout January
Where: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Alaska+Zoo/@61.1248378,-149.7930209,15z" target="_blank">The Alaska Zoo, 4731 O'Malley Road, Anchorage, AK, 99507 </a>
Parlor in the Round
<a href="https://www.bandsintown.com/en/e/101719090?app_id=squarespace-parlor-in-the-round&came_from=267&utm_medium=api&utm_source=public_api&utm_campaign=event&mkt_source=www.parlorintheround.com" target="_blank">Parlor in the Round</a> allows you to both enjoy a musical event and shape its direction at the same time. It's a chance to hear songwriters from all over the state. Musicians come from every type of background to talk about their influences and share their songs. This event focuses primarily on songwriters who will take their inspiration from one another and the audience. It's a fantastic way for attendees to discover talent while still being able to contribute their two cents.
When: January 16
Where: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Wendy+Williamson+Auditorium+(WWA)/@61.1887145,-149.8331762,15z" target="_blank">Wendy Williamson Auditorium, 2533 Providence Dr, Anchorage, AK 99508</a>
Beethoven's Birthday Bash
<a href="https://tickets.centertix.com/core/eventperformances.asp?evt=2109" target="_blank">Beethoven's Birthday Bash</a> is a great way to celebrate the birthday of a musician while honoring their masterpieces and delight in the powerful instruments that bring the symphony to life. This bash includes both the famous works of Beethoven and his more experimental music. The latter is a little more light-hearted and whimsical, having derived from the folk songs of the day. Attendees can hear his Scottish Songs and Wellington's Sieg in new arrangements, with the musicians putting their own unique spin on the pieces. And of course, what better way to end a concert than with a slice of birthday cake?
When: January 5
Where: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Fine+Arts+Building/@61.1930501,-149.8125016,15z" target="_blank">UAA Fine Arts Building, 3700 Alumni Dr, Anchorage, AK 99508</a>
Anchorage, AK may not always seem like a metropolitan haven, but there's plenty to do if people know where to look. These events scratch the surface of the many local and citywide events throughout the largest city in Alaska. Simply attending is a great way to expose yourself to a new culture and to learn more about the natural world around you.
2019-12-18T08:56:00-07:002020-03-16T08:10:18-07:00Ryan Tollefsentag:anchoragerealestate.com,2012-09-20:3221An Exploration into the History of Anchorage
<img class=" img_box_right" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1716/image/uploads/agent-1/the-history-of-anchorage-alaska.jpg" alt="A Close Look at the History of Anchorage" />With its humble beginnings as a lush wilderness, it is a wonder that <a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/anchorage_real_estate.php">Anchorage</a> has become Alaska's most populated cityscape. Over 291,000 people proudly call the city proper home with nearly 400,000 more along the outskirts. The trek from dense wilderness to populated city occurred over 100 years and included many twists and turns along the way. With a look at the history of the region, it is easy to see how the wilderness turned into ‘The City of Lights and Flowers' in such a short time.
Discovery by Early Settlers
Long before the United States of America took an interest in Alaska, people lived off the forested land. They arrived in Alaska by the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bela/learn/historyculture/the-bering-land-bridge-theory.htm" target="_blank">Bering Land Bridge</a> between 20,000 to 40,000 years ago. These populations did not develop the land, but instead lived in groups that traveled around the region as needed to survive. Different groups of Alaskan natives lived all across the land, with the groups along the coast near modern-day Anchorage known as the Dena'ina Athabascans.
Modern explorers did not flow into this region until the mid-1700s. Both European and Russian explorers discovered the area around Anchorage for the first time around 1741. In 1778, Captain James Cook of the British Royal Navy made landfall and intended to perform a claiming ceremony. The Russian explorers had previously done the same, renaming the Dena'ina Athabascan's land ‘Point Possession.'
US Purchases Alaska from Russia
<a href="https://history.state.gov/departmenthistory/people/seward-william-henry" target="_blank">William H. Seward</a> signed the Russian treaty, which allowed the U.S. to purchase Alaska for $7.2 million. Only 400 people moved into the trading stations being set up across Cook Inlet. However, with the 1890s discovery of gold, people started flocking to the territory, setting up camp and eventually settling in for good. By this time, the US had started setting up the civil government, assigning judges, clerks, marshals, and even a governor to the region.
Railroad Construction Camp Develops
As people poured into the region in search of gold, settlers started to build long-term settlements along <a href="https://alaska.guide/Bay/Cook-Inlet" target="_blank">Cook Inlet</a>. More than 13,000 people arrived in Cook Inlet by 1898, though many returned home or went off to Klondike in search of the big score.
During this time, the U.S. continued to make Alaska a part of its union, establishing an elected legislature in 1912. This also opened the doors for the railroad commission to start exploring the possibility of establishing railways through the territory.
The passing of the Alaska Railroad Act in 1914 lead to the construction of the railway to the area that would become Anchorage, leaving Knik abandoned. Along the edges of present-day Anchorage, a Tent City was built to house all the railway workers and merchants.
Anchorage Becomes an Official Town
By 1915, the U.S. Post Office Department dubbed the region, “Anchorage,” replacing Ship Creek as the main township in the region. Anchorage did not become an official town for quite some time after and there was even a vote on the official name. Some of the options included Terminal, Winalaska, and Gateway. It was the Post Office that made the final determination, however, leaving the name as Anchorage.
Start of Community Events and Services
With its official name, Anchorage received a Chamber of Commerce, which was tasked with improving the region. <a href="https://www.alaskajournal.com/community/2002-12-02/anchorage-landmark-store-closes-doors-after-87-years" target="_blank">Kimball's Dry Goods</a> opened soon after and remained a part of the town until 2002 when they closed their doors. The original building still stands today, however, as the only surviving commercial location from those early days of development.
Other important community organizations began as well, including the Anchorage Woman's Club, which focused on improvements in the civic and cultural space. The community continued to expand and grow with the development of public schools, movie theaters, and docks along the ocean.
By 1919, Anchorage was a bustling town with both people and supplies carried by the quick-moving railroad and ocean vessels. After all this growth, the city was officially incorporated in 1920 with a population of 1,856, as railroad workers and members of the military returned home.
Anchorage Airport Built and Military Presence Expands
The population experienced slow growth from 1920 to 1929 when Aviation Field was developed. Eventually becoming <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MerrillFieldAirport/" target="_blank">Merrill Field</a>, this airport allowed for faster travel between locations, bringing more people to the region. By 1930, more than 2,200 people lived in Anchorage.
In 1939, President Franklin D. Roosevelt earmarked over 50,000 acres of land for a military base through an executive order. Fort Richardson was transformed into Elmendorf Field soon after. Military infantry and officials came pouring into the region as a result, bumping up population numbers from 3,400 to 6,000 in 1942. Population growth steadily continued, resulting in more than 11,000 people living there by 1950.
Oil Revenues Drive Tremendous Growth
In 1964, the Great Alaska Earthquake destroyed much of the downtown area of Anchorage. The rebuilding process happened rapidly, facilitated by the <a href="http://www.akhistorycourse.org/modern-alaska/oil-discovery-and-development-in-alaska/" target="_blank">discovery of oil</a> under much of the land. Oil companies came from far and wide, boosting the popularity of the region by far. Within just 10 years, the city had more than 174,000 people living there, which is half of today's population. Growth continued undisrupted through the decades with the cityscape becoming more modern by the moment.
Today, more than 40 percent of Alaska's population resides within the city of Anchorage, and the population continues to grow as well. The beautiful landscape, strong community connections, and rich history of the region keep people coming from far and wide to have a taste of ‘The City of Lights and Flowers.'
2019-12-11T06:56:00-07:002020-03-20T08:25:07-07:00Ryan Tollefsentag:anchoragerealestate.com,2012-09-20:3220Your Guide to Public Transportation in Anchorage, AK
<img class=" img_box_right" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1716/image/uploads/agent-1/public-transportation-in-anchorage.jpg" alt="Does Anchorage, AK Have Good Public Transportation?" />Anchorage is the state's largest city, and its public transportation was designed as a hub for a variety of major destinations in Alaska. It's the biggest airline in the state, meaning most people will pass through the city at some point during their trip. But public transportation was also developed for locals, especially considering the many seasonal opportunities in the state. From buses to trains to planes, here are a few tips for navigating the crisscrossing routes from place to place.
Skipping the Smog
Barring the weather, walking or biking are the two top ways to get around in Anchorage. The city is built on a grid and it's pretty simple to figure out where to go. So while it may not have a subway system, there are more than a few reasons to stay aboveground. <a href="https://www.alaska.org/things-to-do/bicycle-day-tours" target="_blank">Bikes are affordable to rent </a>for visitors and an excellent investment for locals. The number of trails and off-the-beaten-path routes make for excellent exploration, though everyone will need to be careful of the wildlife surrounding even the most industrial parts of the city.
Buses
City living in Anchorage is fairly concentrated. The buildings of downtown are all in a cluster and relatively close together. However, the actual city of Anchorage is more than 1,000 square miles when factoring in the outskirts of town. Those who want to get to the wilds of Anchorage can take the <a href="http://www.muni.org/departments/transit/peoplemover/Pages/default.aspx" target="_blank">People Mover buses</a> around Anchorage. While this form of public transportation is relatively slow, it does hit many of the top sights and even the outliers of the city. At a day pass of just $5, pass holders will have access to bus routes that run about twice an hour.
Those who want to get out of Anchorage entirely can also find plenty of coaches that can take them to Denali, <a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/fairbanks-homes-for-sale.php">Fairbanks</a>, and Seward (just to name a few). These coaches will take a little more effort to coordinate than the People Mover buses, but the long-distance options also move a little faster.
Railroad
The <a href="https://www.alaskatrain.com/destinations/anchorage.html" target="_blank">trains in Anchorage</a> were made for both locals and tourists, and some of them travel deep in the heart of the state's most famous sights, including:
Denali National Park
Spencer Glacier
Kenai Fjords National Park
Talkeetna
Seward
These are just a few cities for those looking to take a train ride from Anchorage. While service may slow (or even stop completely) between September and May, locals and visitors will have plenty of chances to take the train during peak times.
The City's Commitment
<a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/anchorage_real_estate.php">Anchorage</a> has a commitment to the people to provide safe and reliable transportation to everyone. About 12,000 passengers enjoy a ride on the People Mover buses, traveling more than 2 million miles total in a single year. <a href="http://www.muni.org/Departments/transit/AnchorRides/Pages/AnchorRIDESOverview.aspx" target="_blank">Anchorage also offers AnchorRIDES</a>, or transportation to those with disabilities. From senior citizen transportation to pharmacies to para-transit services, Anchorage gives people ways to move and discover. The city also promotes ride-sharing and carpooling to both reduce congestion and pollution.
People looking for the best ways to get around Alaska can consider booking a train ticket, taking the People Mover, or renting a bike during the nicer months.
2019-12-04T07:19:00-07:002020-03-16T04:55:14-07:00Ryan Tollefsentag:anchoragerealestate.com,2012-09-20:3218The Best December Events in Anchorage, AK
<img class=" img_box_right" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1716/image/uploads/agent-1/december-events-in-anchorage.jpg" alt="Everything You Need to Know About Anchorage Events in December" />December is the jolliest of all the months in <a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/anchorage_real_estate.php" target="_blank">Anchorage, Alaska</a>. Whether you're attending a holiday event or going to see the night light up with beautiful lights, there's a million things to do in Anchorage. If you're new to the area, these events will all be new to you. If you've lived in Anchorage a long time, check out this compilation of familiar holiday activities.
Zoo Lights
<a href="https://www.alaskazoo.org/new-events/2017/11/24/zoo-lights" target="_blank">Zoo Lights at the Alaska Zoo</a> is back! If you've enjoyed previous years at the Alaska Zoo Lights, you'll love the dazzling display of twinkling lights piercing the darkness and lighting up the animal-themed displays. Visitors to the zoo will enjoy walking through canopies of light, and through the wilderness of fully lit trees throughout the zoo.
The Coffee Shop and Gift Shop will be open for those who want to buy a stuffed animal or a hot chocolate. If you're a zoo member, use your membership card to receive a discount. All tickets are sold online starting on November 1.
Date: November 24, 2019 - January 28, 2020, Thursdays through Sundays from 5-8PM
Location: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Alaska+Zoo/@61.1248378,-149.7952096,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c89a04f821661f:0xa18c6267f53e05ea!8m2!3d61.1248378!4d-149.7930209" target="_blank">The Alaska Zoo,4731 O'Malley Road, Anchorage</a>
Cirque Dreams Holidaze
<a href="https://www.anchorageconcerts.org/seasons/19-20-season/cirque-dreams-holidaze" target="_blank">Cirque Dreams Holidaze</a> is a whimsical, charming, sparkling performance from a critically acclaimed traveling Broadway musical troupe. There's something in it for everyone, from beautiful songs to fantastic and amazing physical stunts. Be a part of the audience to watch and listen with amazement. It's a show for adults and children alike.
Date: December 27 - 29, 2019, times vary
Location: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Atwood+Concert+Hall/@61.2173109,-149.8958083,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c8bd87503be2b7:0x8f1b4193ce0bed3!8m2!3d61.2173109!4d-149.8936195" target="_blank">Atwood Concert Hall, 621 West 6th Avenue Suite ACH, Anchorage</a>
Annual Christmas Village
The <a href="https://anchoragemarkets.com/christmas-village-anchorage/" target="_blank">12th Annual Christmas Village</a> is one of the best and most celebrated holiday shopping events of the season. At this bazaar, pick up a variety of holiday gifts for loved ones, including furs, arts, crafts and hand-made items. Whether you're looking for products made in Alaska or imported goods, the Annual Christmas Village is the place to be.
Date: Saturday, December 14, 2019 from 10AM-6PM
Location: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Dena%E2%80%99ina+Civic+and+Convention+Center/@61.2154244,-149.8965661,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c8962a0a24a345:0xb5d4d6b2b871dcdf!8m2!3d61.2154244!4d-149.8943774" target="_blank">Dena'ina Civic and Convention Center, 600 W. 7th Avenue, Anchorage</a>
Sing-A-Long Program for Toddlers
<a href="https://www.alaskazoo.org/new-events/sing-a-long-december-23" target="_blank">Sing-a-long Program for Toddlers</a> is a beloved event where toddlers are encouraged to sing with zoo staff. Songs are usually about animals and instruments are provided for toddler enjoyment. Sometimes the animals come to visit the toddlers. Zoo members enjoy free admission. Children are asked to arrive at the zoo early, to allow for time going through the normal admission process.
Date: Monday, December 23, 2019 from 10:30AM-11:30AM
Location: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Alaska+Zoo/@61.1248378,-149.7952096,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c89a04f821661f:0xa18c6267f53e05ea!8m2!3d61.1248378!4d-149.7930209" target="_blank">The Alaska Zoo, 4731 O'Malley Road, Anchorage</a>
73rd Annual Community Messiah
The <a href="http://www.anchorageconcertchorus.org/" target="_blank">73rd Annual Community Messiah</a> is a chorus made up of 150 volunteer Messiah chorus members, accompanied by the Messiah Orchestra. This event has been held annually since 1947, and is a part of the fabric of the holidays in Anchorage. Everyone is welcome to participate - no auditions or prior experience is required.
Date: Sunday, December 8 at 2:00PM
Location: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/West+Anchorage+High+School/@61.2008047,-149.9188246,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c8bd627fec7779:0xd9a9158f201f5f39!8m2!3d61.2008047!4d-149.9166359" target="_blank">West Anchorage High School, 1700 Hillcrest Dr, Anchorage</a>
No matter what you celebrate or what your family traditions are, you'll have a wonderful time in Anchorage this holiday season. December is a month of fun and amazement for families, couples and individuals. If you're moving to the Anchorage area, get ready to have fun and plan to attend some of these enjoyable holiday events.
2019-11-20T06:21:00-07:002020-03-18T06:56:03-07:00Ryan Tollefsentag:anchoragerealestate.com,2012-09-20:2288Will Increasing Mortgage Rates Impact Home Prices?<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1716/image/mortgage-rate-projections.jpg" alt="Will Increasing Mortgage Rates Impact Home Prices? " title="Will Increasing Mortgage Rates Impact Home Prices? " height="410" width="750" />
There has been some discussion recently on home prices in relation to mortgage rates. Some believe if there is a rapid rise of mortgage rates, home prices should decrease. Logically it makes the most sense for the price of the house to drop when interest rates are rising, but this is not always the case.
This theory of home prices decreasing is typically discussed by future home buyers. As a buyer you would like to think if you are paying higher rates on your mortgage, you should be able to see a decrease in cost somewhere else. Unfortunately, these rates are rising because the economy is in better shape. As the economy succeeds, incomes rise, rates go up, as well as the price of the home.
A recent study by the John Burns Real Estate Consulting found mortgage rates have very little impact on the cost of the home. The housing market and price increases are affected by things like job growth in the area and rising wages. Coincidentally, these same factors are causing the rise in the mortgage rates since people can afford to take out more.
Bottom Line
As the economy progresses and strengthens, mortgage rates and home prices will fluctuate. It is a misconception as rates increase, home prices will decrease. Advances in the economy have shown that rates and home prices are more likely to increase together.2019-11-15T15:07:00-07:002019-11-15T15:08:59-07:00Ryan Tollefsentag:anchoragerealestate.com,2012-09-20:2289Common Things to Look Out for Before Buying Your Dream Home<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1716/image/3-questions-to-ask-before-buying-your-dream-home.jpg" alt="Common Things to Look Out for Before Buying Your Dream Home" title="Common Things to Look Out for Before Buying Your Dream Home" height="410" width="750" />
It is easy to become overwhelmed when you enter the home buying market. Friends, family, colleagues, and even acquaintances will give you their opinions if you are a first time home buyer. While most of them are looking out for your best interest, they are not fully aware of what is happening in the housing market.
It is important for you to be prepared and have your own questions ready. No matter what other opinions you are getting, you are the one buying the home and your comfort level will help make your final decision. Here are three important questions to ask before you purchase a home.
1. Why am I Buying a Home?
Regardless of the finances, it is important to think about what made you want to buy a home in the first place. Usually the reasons don’t have to do with money. Instead, home buyers are focused on how the house will impact their family in the future. A study done by the Joint Center for House Studies at Harvard found there are four reasons people buy a home. Those reasons include schools for your children, a safe environment, more room for your family to grow, and control of your own space.
These factors are the most common reasons people look to buy a new home. When you ask yourself why you are looking to purchase a home, do any of those factors come up? Spend time with your spouse or family members who are involved in this decision and determine why you want a home in the first place. Creating this list will help when searching for a home and can help your real estate agent find the best home for your needs.
2. What is the Trend with Home Values?
Our current economy and housing market is strong. That means home values and mortgage rates are increasing. If you are looking to purchase a home but want to stay within a budget, it may be in your best interest to move quickly. It is forecasted for these trends to continue in an upward motion, causing home values to continue to increase.
3. What About Current Mortgage Rates?
The ticket price is not the only thing you should be concerned with when purchasing a home. Mortgage rates are always changing and can have a huge impact on your monthly payments. Current trends show mortgage rates are rising. This is something to consider if you are debating the right time to purchase a home, since the rates may be even higher down the road.
Bottom Line
You and your family are the only ones who can determine the right time to purchase your dream home. It is important to decide exactly why you want a new home for your family and decide on a budget that will be comfortable moving forward. This budget may affect the amount of time you have to search for a home, since home prices and mortgage rates are increasing. 2019-11-15T15:07:00-07:002019-11-15T15:09:03-07:00Ryan Tollefsentag:anchoragerealestate.com,2012-09-20:2290Why You Should Consider Selling in the Winter<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1716/image/selling-in-the-winter-attracts-serious-buyers.jpg" alt="Selling In Winter Attracts Serious Buyers" title="Selling In Winter Attracts Serious Buyers" height="410" width="750" />
The season you sell your home can have an impact on how much you get for your home and how quickly it sells. The season that has the most success in selling homes is spring. This is a good time of year for families moving to new school districts and is also more convenient weather for moving. Because of this trend, most people will recommend waiting to list your home until after the winter is over. Avoiding the winter is a huge misconception in the housing industry and can cause homeowners to miss out on opportunities.
Selling in the winter can give you a few advantages. There will be fewer houses on the market since most people assume winter is a bad time to sell. This gives your home more attention. Potential buyers are always looking no matter the time of year. Keeping your house on the market in the winter might bring the right buyer to your door. Real estate agents also tend to be less busy during these months and commit more time to getting your home sold.
Studies have shown winter buyers are buying because they need to move right away either for a relocation or personal situation. They will want to close quickly and allow for a much smoother sale.
Bottom Line
If you need to sell your home right away, or have some time but want to see what is out there, consider listing in the winter. Most homeowners who are going to sell will list their home in the spring, making for a competitive market. The winter allows buyers who are in a hurry to move consider your home and sell for more money than you would have in the spring.2019-11-15T15:07:00-07:002019-11-15T15:09:07-07:00Ryan Tollefsentag:anchoragerealestate.com,2012-09-20:2291Is Getting a Home Mortgage Still Too Difficult?<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1716/image/getting-a-home-mortgage.jpg" alt="Is Getting a Home Mortgage Still Too Difficult?" title="Is Getting a Home Mortgage Still Too Difficult?" height="410" width="750" />
Potential homebuyers are always cautioned to be aware of mortgage lending standards and the difficulty they might face when trying to obtain a mortgage. Credit availability is expanding, making it easier to get a mortgage now than it was a year ago. The market is still tight however, and homebuyers should be prepared to shop around until they find a lender who is offering something that will meet the needs of their family.
Mortgage lending companies have high standards so it is important to make sure you and anyone else who will be included on the mortgage have their credit in check. The mortgage market is strict because lenders do not want to be put in a situation where they are forced to repurchase loans that are not paid on. They also do not want to end up in a litigation situation due to loan issues.
What Has Happened to the Number of Mortgages?
Due to the strict nature and requirements of the lending companies, the number of mortgages given out has significantly dropped. A report by the Housing Financial Policy Center at the Urban Institute showed that about 6.3 million fewer mortgages were given out between 2009 and 2015. The reasons behind this statistic are strict regulations and policies. These mortgages would have been granted if the lending standards where more reasonable.
Mortgage companies rely on calculations to determine if a home buyer will become delinquent on their payment. They will not give you a loan if you are too much of a risk for them. Credit history has a huge impact on this decision since lenders can see how often you pay back your debts. The history they receive is extensive. This view into your financial past causes lenders to take less risk when lending to you for your mortgage.
The Effect on the Economy
The housing market is recovering at a slower pace than it should since less potential homebuyers are being offered loans. While the market is still recovering with positive trends, fewer buyers can create a strain on other economic factors like home goods or construction jobs. Bottom Line
After the housing market boom and bust, mortgage lenders became stricter in their lending standards. It is not impossible to get a mortgage loan, but it can still be difficult for potential home buyers. Stay on top of your credit and make sure you and anyone else who is applying are in a good financial position so you can be approved for a loan. It is important to research different companies and their requirements to ensure success in getting a mortgage.2019-11-15T15:07:00-07:002019-11-15T15:08:56-07:00Ryan Tollefsentag:anchoragerealestate.com,2012-09-20:3217What Does the Job Market Look Like in Anchorage, AK?
<img class=" img_box_right" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1716/image/uploads/agent-1/job-market-in-anchorage.jpg" alt="What Are the Career Opportunities in Anchorage, Alaska?" /><a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/anchorage-homes-for-sale.php">Anchorage, Alaska</a> puts residents in the middle of some of the most impressive scenery in the world. But for those thinking of moving to the area, there's more to a city than its landscape. Alaska has been making a relatively strong comeback in the job market, and it's not just in the oil and gas industries. Learn more about current job opportunities in Anchorage and its driving forces.
Increase in Minimum Wage
The big economic news in Alaska is its minimum wage hike for 2020. The increase from $9.89 an hour to $10.19 was passed as a way to keep the state in line with the general rate of inflation. This state has kept inflation low in the past few years, so the minimum wage has largely stayed the same.
The price index in Anchorage recently went up 3% in 2018. A statewide law was passed in 2014 to ensure employees would be able to keep pace with the general cost of living, making the price hike necessary for the city. The <a href="https://www.thebalancecareers.com/2018-19-federal-state-minimum-wage-rates-2061043#targetText=The%20current%20federal%20minimum%20wage,pay%20workers%20the%20higher%20amount." target="_blank">current national minimum wage in 2019</a> is $7.25.
Growth and Career Opportunities
Neal Fried, an economist for Alaska, stated most people make more than the minimum wage, due to the tightness of the job market. The minimum wage in Alaska might be $10.19, but the average hourly wage in the state is $28.
As oil prices rise, so has the job market. This year, <a href="https://www.seattletimes.com/seattle-news/northwest/report-alaska-construction-spending-expected-to-increase/" target="_blank">growth picked up in industries such as construction</a> and food services, making it easier for employees to negotiate for certain positions.
Because the job market is concentrated to certain industries, people are migrating to the state, even as others move out. Here are a few facts reflecting the past and present state of the economy:
Construction was predicted to see the strongest rebound
Tourism employs 1 of 9 people in the city
Alaska can be a great place for people to stretch their careers, but it helps to know which industries are thriving in the city. Considering the average minimum wage, it does seem as though many workers are making it work for them.
2019-11-13T06:32:00-07:002020-03-21T10:15:28-07:00Ryan Tollefsentag:anchoragerealestate.com,2012-09-20:32193 Best Museums in Anchorage, AK
<img class=" img_box_right" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1716/image/uploads/agent-1/museums-in-anchorage.jpg" alt="3 Best Museums to Visit in Anchorage, AK in 2019" />Alaska is rich with culture and history, and there's no better place to learn about it than at a museum. Whether you're interested in history, science, mechanics, or anything else, you're sure to find the perfect museum to learn all about it. Here are a few must-see museums to visit in <a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/alaska-real-estate.php" target="_blank">Anchorage, AK</a>.
Anchorage Museum
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Anchorage+Museum/@61.2161356,-149.887931,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c896296ce7438d:0x5745ca1a5052f9af!8m2!3d61.216133!4d-149.885737" target="_blank">Anchorage Museum, 625 C St, Anchorage, AK 99501</a>
The <a href="https://www.anchoragemuseum.org/" target="_blank">Anchorage Museum</a> is the best museum to visit for anyone who wants to dabble in a number of different fields during a trip to the museum. With this museum featuring art, history, science, ecology, ethnography, and more, this is the perfect destination for anyone looking to broaden their understanding of the world.
Topics of its permanent exhibits include: The indigenous peoples of Alaska, a history of Alaska through different voices, international northern art, and a public art exhibit. Stop by today to get a taste of this diverse museum!
Alaska Native Heritage Museum
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Alaska+Native+Heritage+Center/@61.2328209,-149.7192532,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c8943d0575406b:0x1c2cf7523bbe4ae1!8m2!3d61.2328183!4d-149.7170593" target="_blank">Alaska Native Heritage Center, 8800 Heritage Center Dr, Anchorage, AK 99504</a>
Alaska's indigenous peoples have a long and storied history, and there is no better place to learn about it than at the <a href="https://www.alaskanative.net/" target="_blank">Alaska Native Heritage Museum</a>. Open during the spring and summer seasons, the museum is a place for visitors to engage with history as well as living cultures. The Hall of Cultures features Alaska native artists and their exhibits, representing each of the five major culture groups.
The museum's theatre hosts movies for visitors to watch, and the Gathering Place is the main hub for storytelling and interactive demonstrations of dance and games. Guided tours are offered, and questions are encouraged!
Alaska Museum of Science and Nature
Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Alaska+Museum+of+Science+and+Nature/@61.2251926,-149.810063,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x56c8966fac30d1f7:0xe1975a757e6c2f92!8m2!3d61.22519!4d-149.807869" target="_blank">Alaska Museum of Science and Nature, 201 N Bragaw St, Anchorage, AK 99508</a>
The <a href="https://www.alaskamuseum.org/" target="_blank">Alaska Museum of Science and Nature</a> takes a deep dive into science and natural history, making it a great museum to visit to learn about paleontology, geology, and more. This museum is a great place to bring kids, because its hands-on exhibits allow for up-close-and-personal education sure to get children excited about learning. The Alaska Museum of Science and Nature has exhibits for dinosaur fossils, Alaskan marine life, birds, rocks and minerals, and a number of other expansive topics.
Free parking is available in the streets around the museum, and the museum is accessible by bus from downtown Anchorage. Stop by today to immerse yourself into the natural history of Alaska!
Visit a Must-See Alaska Museum Today
Science, culture, and history are important cornerstones of current society, and museums are one of many ways to experience them. Enrich yourself in one of these great Anchorage museums and develop a deeper understanding of science and history today!
2019-11-06T12:32:00-07:002020-03-21T10:17:22-07:00Ryan Tollefsentag:anchoragerealestate.com,2012-09-20:3216How Expensive is it to Live in Anchorage, Alaska?
<img class="rfx-topimg" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1716/image/cost-of-living-in-anchorage.jpg" alt="How Expensive is it to Live in Anchorage, Alaska?" style="margin-left: 15px; margin-bottom: 15px; width: 475px; float: right; padding-left: 10px;" />From housing to food, everything in <a target="_blank" href="http://www.anchoragerealestate.com/anchorage-homes-for-sale.php">Anchorage, Alaska</a> is a little to a lot more expensive than the rest of the nation. In fact, partly due to its relatively remote location and large landmass, the cost of living here is just about 1/3 more than average. In order to thrive in this awesome area, people must know how to manage their expenses. To get an idea on the costs, they can use this guide to explore each area in detail.
Housing
Of all the living expenses in Anchorage, housing costs vary the most from the rest of the United States. To buy a home in Anchorage, people can expect to pay about $330,000 on average. If they choose to rent, they will<a target="_blank" href="https://www.rentjungle.com/average-rent-in-anchorage-rent-trends/"> pay an average of about $1,100 a month</a> for an apartment.
Although moving outside the city centers can save on housing, all other expenses can increase. Rural areas typically have higher utility, food, and transportation costs due to their remote locations.
Electricity and Other Utilities
With temperatures regularly falling below zero in the winter, utility costs are more expensive for those in living in Anchorage. Summer temperatures are quite warm, keeping utility costs high year round.
Across this region, residents can expect to pay at least $238 on average to keep the power on each month. As you go further northward, however, temperatures drop even more, causing utility bills to hit about $300 a month instead.
Furthermore, other utilities bills, such as water, are <a target="_blank" href="https://www.awwu.biz/customer-service/rates-and-billing-policies/rates">about 10 percent higher</a> than the rest of the nation. Some multi-family communities in the area will bundle lights, water, and sewer charges in the rent payment, helping residents save a bit of money overall.
Food and Beverages
Although Anchorage is a busy city center, food and beverages cost more than they do across the rest of the US. This price difference occurs due to the long distance food has to travel to arrive at local grocery stores.
Stores typically have to make up for the costs of transport by <a target="_blank" href="https://www.numbeo.com/food-prices/in/Anchorage">increasing prices in remote locations.</a> Groceries tend to cost more in rural areas as a result, and there may be limited availability of some items. Anchorage and other major cities see a spike in food prices as well, as stores attempt to balance their profits and losses.
Food items that tend to cost more in this city include:
Meat
Milk and other dairy products
Fresh produce
Canned and frozen foods are quite popular in the area as a result.
Transportation
With over 656,000 square miles of space, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.worldatlas.com/articles/what-is-the-biggest-state-in-the-us.html#targetText=Alaska%20is%20the%20largest%20state%20in%20the%20US%20by%20land%20area.">Alaska is the largest state in the US.</a> In fact, it is more than twice the size of Texas, which is the second largest state. For this reason, it takes more time and gas to travel to all the different engagements people have in their day.
The remote landscape also comes with higher gas prices, as the tankers have to drive further to deliver to each station. In Anchorage, gas prices are about $3.30 a gallon, which is higher than the average. Even buying a car can cost more than the norm, as dealerships try to make up for high transportation costs and low sales numbers.
Beyond these areas, almost everything is more expensive in Anchorage. Clothing, household goods, and entertainment are all higher in price as compared to the rest of the US. People who intend to move here should <a target="_blank" href="https://www.onyourown.org/Blog/How-to-Move-Out">write up a budget</a> and see if they can follow it before taking the plunge. That way, they will be well-prepared for the expenses and can make their dream of living in Alaska work for them.
#style-rfx-blog0#2019-10-31T06:36:00-07:002020-10-09T06:04:56-07:00Ryan Tollefsentag:anchoragerealestate.com,2012-09-20:3215The Best November Events in Anchorage, AK
<img class=" img_box_right" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1716/image/uploads/agent-1/november-events-in-anchorage.jpg" alt="Where to Go in Anchorage in November" />November in <a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/anchorage_real_estate.php" target="_blank">Anchorage, Alaska</a> is a great time to get together with family and friends, prepare for the snows, and dive into the holiday spirit. Whether it's through a day of shopping or a night of charity, the people of Anchorage will have plenty to do over the course of the month. Learn more about the events in the area, and start marking off the calendar now.
Holiday Tree Lighting
The <a href="https://www.anchorage.net/event/holiday-tree-lighting-ceremony/38463/amp/" target="_blank">Holiday Tree Lighting</a> celebration is made possible by the Anchorage Downtown Partnership Ltd. It's a family friendly event that includes hot chocolate, cookies, and the indispensable Kris Kringle and his merry band of reindeer. Guests can mingle with one another, meet up with friends, or just take a break after all the planning and hard work of Thanksgiving. As the tree lighting commences, attendees will have a chance to experience the first of many wonders the season will bring.
When: November 30, 5 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Where: Town Square Park, 544 W 5th Ave, Anchorage, AK
Cost: Free
Alaskan Christmas Bazaar
The <a href="https://alaskanchristmasbazaar.com/" target="_blank">Alaskan Christmas Bazaar</a> has more than 100 vendor booths for shoppers to peruse. This is a fantastic opportunity to buy handmade items that shoppers and loved ones will cherish for many years to come. Rather than standing in line for hours at the mall for another mass-produced item, the Christmas Bazaar will feature one-of-a-kind treasures to make the holidays come alive. Come without an agenda and leave with a shopping bag full of treats.
When: November 9, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Where: Anchorage City Church, 1301 W 100th Ave, Anchorage, AK
Cost: Free
Holiday Food and Gift Festival
The <a href="https://anchoragemarkets.com/food-festival/" target="_blank">Holiday Food and Gift Festival</a> is entirely sold out for vendor space and promises to be an action-packed weekend for both artists and shoppers alike. There will be a wide variety of local and imported crafts, foods, furs, and gifts. As Anchorage prepares for the winter, this can be exactly the excursion that locals need to stay well-stocked with unique treats throughout the next few months. It's also a good way to learn more about the trends of everything from pickling to bath products to jewelry.
When: November 2 – 3, Saturday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Where: Dena'ina Center, 600 W 7th Ave, Anchorage, AK
Cost: Free
No Man's Land Film Festival
The BLM Campbell Creek Science Center brings guests a female-friendly film festival they'll never forget with the <a href="http://nomanslandfilmfestival.org/the-festival-1" target="_blank">No Man's Land Film Festival</a>. These short films show just how adventurous women can be and each one was made to inspire viewers to plan their next big outing. Alaska is a wild and wonderful state with so much to do, and there's no better time to experience it than the present.
Come see athletes, business owners, and organizers discuss just how many ways there are to get out and discover more. There will be a short discussion with a distinguished female panel followed by 1.5 hours of film. After that, audience members will have a chance to share their future adventures with fellow guests.
When: November 13, 6 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Where: Campbell Creek Science Center, 5600 Science Center Dr, Anchorage, AK
Cost: Free
Cowboy Ball
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/anchorage-marriott-downtown/2019-cowboy-ball/357184354937348/" target="_blank">The Cowboy Ball</a> features food, dancing, and the Ken Peltier Band, all for the sake of a good cause. The proceeds go toward Equine Assisted Therapy Alaska (EATA).This charitable organization is designed to improve both the mental and emotional health of children and adults with a wide variety of disabilities. The more the people in the program learn more about horsemanship, the more confident they become in all areas of their life. At this event, guests will have a chance to celebrate their mission through a night of fun.
When: November 9, 6 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Where: Mariott Anchorage, 820 West 7th Avenue, Anchorage, AK
Cost: $150
No matter what the people of Anchorage want to do in November, there is a wide variety of events for everyone. Each event is designed to give people fun reasons to get out of the house, connect with others, and experience the city in a different way.
2019-10-22T08:28:00-07:002020-03-22T09:37:41-07:00Ryan Tollefsentag:anchoragerealestate.com,2012-09-20:3214Best Coffee Shops in Anchorage, AK
<img class=" img_box_right" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1716/image/uploads/agent-1/best-coffee-in-anchorage.jpg" alt="Where to Find the Best Coffee in Anchorage, AK" />When the weather takes a turn for the worse, sometimes there's nothing better than a soothing cup of coffee. Not only does the caffeine give visitors the energy to chase the gray away, but it's also a great place to head for a sense of community and togetherness. Those looking for the best possible brew may want to check out the following hot spots in <a href="https://www.akhomeshow.com/anchorage-homes-for-sale.php">Anchorage</a>, which have managed to earn the respect and devotion of plenty of locals.
Kaladi Brothers Coffee
The staff members at <a href="https://kaladi.com/" target="_blank">Kaladi Brothers Coffee</a> are passionate about brewing a truly incredible cup of joe, but the mission of the coffee shop is a little larger than that. This coffee shop wants to be the catalyst for its neighbors to offer support, share new ideas, and form stronger relationships. This local business is extremely involved in local events, bringing its coffee truck to everything from conventions to galas. They also have a coffee academy where they teach baristas from all over the state how to serve better drinks with a smile.
Address: 6921 Brayton Dr #5601, Anchorage, AK 99507
Midnight Sun Cafe
In downtown Anchorage, visitors can head to the <a href="http://www.midnightsuncafeak.com/" target="_blank">Midnight Sun Cafe</a> for a cup of coffee with a side of lunch. This place has great sandwiches, soups, and snacks, plus gluten-free and vegan options. This cafe was started by a dynamic husband and wife team in 2007, steadily building over the years to become a true local favorite. Diners can rest easy knowing that their coffee was fairly traded and grown from beans on an organic plantation. Its owners are volunteers for many of the charitable events in the community, and they've also donated to numerous local causes.
Address: 245 W 5th Ave #106, Anchorage, AK 99501
Dark Horse
<a href="http://www.darkhorsecoffee.com/http___web.me.com_darkhorseak_Dark_Horse_Coffee_Welcome.html/Welcome.html" target="_blank">Dark Horse</a> is a charming cafe with a lot of attitude. People who come here tend to kick up their feet and stay awhile, especially when they see just how inviting the interior is. Dark Horse is known for its oatmeal, coffee, and paninis. The family-owned business has been at the same location for 10 years, and they've had a front-row seat to all the changes in the community. Those who keep coming back will get to know each member of their family and their little quirks and be treated to quality ingredients and responsible sourcing.
Address: 646 F St, Anchorage, AK 99501
Side Street Espresso
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/category/Cafe/Side-Street-Espresso-120434231301114/" target="_blank">Side Street Espresso</a> in downtown is beloved for its quaint vibes and kitschy decorations. Not only are the drinks and menu items hand-crafted with a lot of love, but this eclectic coffee shop also supports local artists through its monthly art exhibits. Like many of the choices on this list, its owners invite their patrons to unwind and connect over their favorite menu items. And for those who may need a minute or two before warming up to chatting, there are also plenty of books to keep visitors company until they're ready.
Address: 412 G St, Anchorage, AK 99501
SteamDot
There are a few ways that <a href="https://www.steamdot.com/" target="_blank">SteamDot</a> coffee manages to stand out from the other choices on this list:
Slow Bar: This is the only place in Alaska where patrons can experience a Slow Bar. With a Slow Bar, a barista will slow down the process of taking an order and making a cup of coffee. It's a great way to connect with locals in the city while learning more about how each cup of coffee is prepared.
Dynamic events: No matter when people stop into SteamDot, there's always something going on. If the staff isn't making artisanal cups of coffee, they're experimenting with new varieties and batches in their cupping room.
Featured Coffee: Patrons will be treated to new menu items when stopping in, and one of those items will be the shop's featured coffee. The staff invites everyone to compare and contrast coffee made with different beans from around the world.
Address: 10950 O'Malley Centre Dr, Anchorage, AK 99515
Coffee may not change the world, but the baristas and patrons just might. When people are hankering for a good brew, why not skip the Starbucks and go for something a little more local? These locally owned operations will be happy to help.
2019-10-15T08:31:00-07:002020-03-21T10:21:06-07:00Ryan Tollefsentag:anchoragerealestate.com,2012-09-20:3213Top Things to Know About Moving to Anchorage, Alaska
<img class=" img_box_right" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1716/image/uploads/agent-1/what-to-expect-moving-to-anchorage.jpg" alt="Top Considerations in Moving to Anchorage, Alaska" />More than 291,000 people proudly call <a href="https://www.akhomeshow.com/anchorage-homes-for-sale.php" target="_blank">Anchorage, Alaska</a> home—and for good reason. With its picturesque views, diverse wildlife population, and interesting climate, this region is an exciting place to call home. But before making the move, it is important to understand a little bit more about this region, as it is unlike many other places in the United States. To help everyone get started, here are the top things to know about moving to Anchorage.
There's a Higher Cost of Living
Anchorage, Alaska has a much higher <a href="https://www.gobankingrates.com/making-money/economy/rising-cost-of-living-in-america/" target="_blank">cost of living than the average across the US</a>. In fact, it is 28 percent higher overall, though housing costs are 48 percent more expensive than the average. Everything from utilities to transportation costs more as well. Food is nearly twice as expensive, with milk costing $4 per gallon and boneless, skinless chicken breast running $6 a pound.
A strict budget can help in handling these higher expenses, as can a focus on minimizing energy consumption, gas usage, and food waste. Annual payments from the Alaska Permanent Fund can help, but it only kicks in after living in the state for a full year.
The Climate and Daylight Hours are Very Unique
With its subarctic climate, Anchorage has long, cold winters and short, cool summers. More than 70 inches of snow tends to fall each winter season, keeping the area gorgeously blanketed. Temperatures tend to hang around 5 to 30 degrees Fahrenheit, though the wind chill is known to drop temps below 0 degrees.
The summer season brings mild weather along with drizzly rainfall late in the season. Summer temperatures range between 55 to 78 degrees Fahrenheit on average. Although the summer is short, the growing season has at least 101 frost-free days for gardeners to work with in producing harvestable fruits, vegetables, and flowers.
Daylight hours are unlike anywhere else in the US as well. In the summer, Anchorage can see as much as 22 hours of daylight, keeping the sky dusky and light well past bedtime. In the winter, however, there is hardly enough light to get the day's work done. The shortest day of this season, <a href="http://www.alaskaanchorage.net/alaska_winter_solstice_festivals.php" target="_blank">winter solstice</a>, only sees just over five hours of daylight.
Wardrobes Stay Functional
Although fashion-conscious individuals can be found at every corner of Anchorage, most wardrobe items remain focused on function. The low temperatures and chance of severe storms demand the right attire to stay warm, safe, and comfortable.
And this includes footwear as well. With snow falling half the year, a proper pair of boots often wins out over heels or other fancy dress shoes. So, while living in this corner of the world, plan to keep the <a href="https://www.alaska.org/advice/alaska-packing-list" target="_blank">wardrobe simple and functional</a>—and have plenty of the right shoes and boots on hand.
Travels are Always an Adventure
Simply walking from place to place is not really an option in Anchorage. Restaurants, business centers, and other locations are too spread out from each other or separated by busy roadways. Despite this, public transportation routes are sparse, often making it a necessity to own, drive, and maintain a personal vehicle.
Although having to drive can prove expensive, with the gorgeous views all around, every trip can feel like an adventure. Catching a glimpse of the <a href="https://www.anchorage.net/discover/wildlife/" target="_blank">local wildlife population</a> is not at all uncommon while simply moving through the cityscape.
Outdoor Activities Abound
From hiking to fishing and everything in between, there is no shortage of awesome outdoor activities to enjoy across Anchorage. Locals love hiking at:
<a href="https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/alaska/omalley-peak-trail" target="_blank">O'Malley Peak</a>
Williwaw Lakes
Rabbit Lake Trail
With its thick wilderness landscape and abundance of wildlife, everyone must stay safety conscious while enjoying the outdoors. They have to learn how to avoid and deter wildlife, such as bears, and prepare for the many other challenges they could encounter along the way.
Keep these considerations in mind to smoothly move through the process of relocating to Anchorage, Alaska. Although the differences in this region take some getting used to, they are also what makes it such an interesting place to live.
2019-10-08T08:48:00-07:002020-03-18T07:49:58-07:00Ryan Tollefsentag:anchoragerealestate.com,2012-09-20:3212Selling a luxury home in Anchorage<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1716/image/uploads/agent-38/9 August 2016 selling a luxury home.jpg" alt="Luxury home foyer" width="400" height="573" class="img_box_center" />
Luxury homes face a longer and bumpier road to the closing table than most homeowners. There are a number of reasons for this: A smaller pool of buyers that are savvy and, because of their affluence, are in no hurry to buy. Several cogs can end up in the luxury home sale wheel and further slow the process to a crawl and kudos to you for wanting to know about these upfront.
The luxury home seller
One thing we’ve noticed with our high-end home sellers in Anchorage is that they have a mindset that theirs is the most luxurious home on the market. Now, that may be true, but combined with the attitude of most high-end buyers who can afford to be choosey and you’ve got the makings of protracted negotiations.
Understand that this sale is a business transaction and try to keep emotions out of it. If a buyer requests changes, say lighting or flooring, it’s not meant as an insult to your taste. The longer you take to determine whether or not you will give in to the requests, the longer the home will take to sell.
Regardless of how affluent you are, your home represents a substantial financial asset, the sale of which needs to be approached as a business deal. Nothing during the process should be taken as a personal affront. Remain unemotional to help the sale run to a smooth closing.
Choose your agent carefully
“How do you make the incomparable, comparable?” is a question posed frequently by author and luxury real estate expert Jack Cotton as he travels around the country counseling luxury home real estate agents.
Pricing these homes is challenging even for the experienced agent. It requires a skill set that other agents haven’t acquired. The necessary knowledge involves experience in adjusting various amenities in a “quantitative manner . . . for the differences among the comps and the subject,” according to Cotton.
Then, there’s the marketing of luxury homes, which in no way compares to the marketing of homes in the lower price ranges. The agent you hire must have a robust marketing budget to cover the unique marketing methods required when getting the word out about your home. The newbie or part-time agent (and many, many full-time agents) lack even a minuscule marketing budget.
Don't sell the steak—sell the sizzle!
Although Elmer Wheeler’s admonition was popularized almost three quarters of a century ago, it still holds true today, especially when marketing million dollar-plus luxury estates. “The sizzle is the tang in the cheese, the crunch in the cracker, the whiff in the coffee and the pucker in the pickle,” Wheeler added. To a seasoned luxury home real estate specialist, the sizzle is the lifestyle the home represents. He or she understands the affluent buyer, his hot buttons, and targets them with the precision of a laser beam.
The luxury homebuyer pool is a tiny pond compared to the ocean of buyers in the lower price ranges. Competition for these buyers is sometimes quite fierce. To make the home stand out among the competition requires creativity while remaining stylish and sophisticated. Some marketing methods include holding charity events at the home or a benefit to market the home through social connections.
The luxury home buyer
With so many homes from which to choose, and a cushion of affluence beneath her, the luxury homebuyer can afford to take her time and be choosy. Sometimes her demands may seem trivial to others, but they will certainly slow down the sales process and, in the end, may make or break the deal.
Buyers of high-end real estate are often put through financial hoops when acquiring a mortgage. In fact, last month the index for jumbo loans tightened, while those for conventional loans loosened. Since these loans are a bit more difficult to acquire than they were before the housing crisis, the loan process may slow the sale of the home considerably.
In general, jumbo loan requirements include:
Employment verification
Proof of substantial assets for a large down payment and reserves
Verification of high credit scores
Low debt-to-income ratio
The speed of the loan process has a great deal to do with the liquidity of the buyer’s assets.
The most important aspects of selling your luxury home include choosing the right real estate agent, savvy marketing and being unemotional and flexible. Accommodate those short-notice, private showings. Be ready to hold the home open, if necessary and provide refreshments. Overall, though, the successful sale of your home depends on you working with your agent as a team.<br /><br />Related Links<a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/property-search/search-form/" target="_blank">Search the Anchorage MLS for your next home</a><a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/blog/" target="_blank">Read more from our Anchorage real estate blog</a><a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/eastridge-homes-for-sale.php" target="_blank">Get to know the Eastridge community in Anchorage</a>2016-08-09T06:21:00-07:002020-03-18T07:58:38-07:00Ryan Tollefsentag:anchoragerealestate.com,2012-09-20:3211Out’N About In Southcentral in August<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1716/image/uploads/agent-38/2 August 2016 Out n About.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="333" class="img_box_center" />
There is so much going on this month all over Southcentral.
August 6
Alaska 10K Classic
Lace up those running shoes; it's time for one of Alaska's oldest road-running races. The 10K Classic begins at in front of Atwood Hall at the Alaska Pacific University campus and follows an incredibly scenic route before heading back to the start. Can't manage 10 kilometers? Why not sign up for the 5K run? Either way, you'll be raising money for the Alaska Special Olympics and be able to participate in the post-race party. When you're ready to register, you'll find all the information you need at <a href="https://skinnyraven.com/" target="_blank">skinnyraven.com</a>.
August 11
Bike Tour: Architecture of Anchorage
The best way to take a look at the incredible city of Anchorage may just be atop your trusty bicycle. At least it is when the Anchorage Museum and Bike Anchorage present a guided tour of the city's architecture. Grab your bike and head over to the Museum at 5:30 p.m. for this free event. After traveling through downtown and along the coastal trail, this tour finishes at 8 p.m. If you need more information, call the museum on (907) 929-9263.
August 13
Alyeska Mountain Run
For a real challenge this August, consider Alyeska Resort's 2,200 foot mountain run. This course is completely uphill, so perhaps run is the wrong term for a lot of participants. But, there is plenty of spirit in the walking and hiking groups. Entry is $30, and bib pickup begins at 8 a.m. You can register online at <a href="https://www.alyeskaresort.com/" target="_blank">alyeskaresort.com</a> to make sure you have a place in this final race of the Alaska Mountain Runners Grand Prix Series.
August 13
Wu-Tang Clan
Moose's Tooth Pub and Pizzeria is turning 20, and they're celebrating with the Wu-Tang Clan. That's hardly as unusual as you might think; the performing group has also had a vibrant 20-year history. Though the Wu-Tang lineup and collaborating artists are almost constantly changing, they always put on a good show. Doors open at 6 p.m. for this 21 and over concert, and you can order your tickets online at <a href="http://moosestooth.net/" target="_blank">moosestooth.net</a>.
August 18-21
2016 Alaska Salsa Festival
You may get a taste of the sauce known as salsa while enjoying your time at the Sheraton Anchorage Hotel and Spa, but this festival is all about dancing! There's a basic boot camp for beginners and plenty of performances and parties that are sure to get you moving to a Latin groove. Expect everything from salsa to the cha-cha and plenty in between. No partner needed, but dancing shoes are recommended for this event. Can't wait to register? Visit <a href="http://alaskasalsafestival.com/" target="_blank">alaskasalsafestival.com</a> for full details.
August 19-21
Anchorage Runfest
You might remember this weekend by its former name of Big Wild Life Runs. And, although the title has changed, you can expect the fun to continue. This weekend really is all about running, however far you can make it. Participate in anything from a 5K run to a full marathon and don't forget to stop by the Expo at the Dena'ina Center to see new gear and how technology is changing running. You can register for events and get all the info you need at <a href="http://anchoragerunfest.org/" target="_blank">anchoragerunfest.org</a>.
August 20-21
Alyeska Blueberry Festival
How fast do you think you can get through an entire blueberry pie... without using your hands? If you think you can beat the pack, you'll want to enter the pie eating contest at this year's Blueberry Festival. Of course, this weekend is filled with a lot more than pie; live music, arts and craft booths, a beer and wine garden, and blueberry picking for the kids are also on the agenda. The festivities begin at 11 a.m. on both days and run until 8 p.m. Check out the full schedule of events at alyeskaresort.com.
August 25- September 5
Alaska State Fair
Can you believe this year's celebration marks the 80th Alaskan State Fair? Check out the comedic stylings of Cheech and Chong on August 29, or hang on for Pat Benatar on September 4; no matter when you head to the fairgrounds, you're certain to experience an incredible event. Vendor and exhibitor details are available online, and you can buy your tickets through the fair's website at <a href="http://www.alaskastatefair.org/site/" target="_blank">alaskastatefair.org</a>.
August 26
Spark!Nite at Anchorage Museum
This is Spark!Lab like you've never tasted it before. The Anchorage Museum pairs up with Zip Kombucha for one night to explore innovation and get a sample of Kombucha at the same time. This event is limited to guests aged 21 and older, but everyone that participates will have a chance to engage with hands-on activities. Get to the museum by 6 p.m. to participate. You'll find details and prices at <a href="https://www.anchoragemuseum.org/" target="_blank">anchoragemuseum.org</a>.
August 26-28
Girdwood Fungus Fair
This event is a lot more interesting than it sounds. Sure, it's off beat, but this fair is totally dedicated to mushrooms (both good and bad). You'll have a chance to learn about local species, and sample unique 'shroom concoctions, including two specialty cocktails. Talks and walks round out this weekend's events. Though not held at the Alyeska Resort, you'll find more details on their website: alyeskaresort.com.<br /><br />Related Links<a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/property-search/search-form/" target="_blank">Search the Anchorage MLS for your next dream home. Every home listed for sale is right here.</a><a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/blog/" target="_blank">Read more from our Southcentral Alaska blog</a><a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/selling.php" target="_blank">Thinking of selling your home in Anchorage? Get important tips here</a>2016-08-02T05:48:00-07:002020-03-21T11:29:16-07:00Ryan Tollefsentag:anchoragerealestate.com,2012-09-20:3210Kids Eat Free! At least in these South Central eateries they do<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1716/image/uploads/agent-38/kid eating restaurant opt.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="267" class="img_box_center" />
Let’s face it, summer, for many of us, is when life kicks into high gear. With vacations and other activities to plan, work and looking forward to back-to-school, we’re pulled in so many different directions it’s amazing we even remember we have kids, let alone feed them!
Have no fear; the Unity Home Group has put together a handy list of places the family can dine in Southcemtral that won’t break your budget because at these eateries, kids eat free! Call ahead to ensure the deals are still valid.
Denny’s
On Tuesdays from 4 p.m. until 10 p.m. Denny’s in Anchorage offers kids a freebie. On the kids’ menu you’ll find hot dogs, cheeseburger, chicken nuggets, a grilled cheese sandwich and pizza.
Find Denny’s at 2900 Denali St and 3850 Debarr Road.
Golden Corral
This deal is for the tiny ones – kids under three ? and they can eat free every day. Then, on Tuesdays, kids younger than 12 can have a meal for only $1.99 from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. Golden Corral in Anchorage is located at 4520 Union Square Drive.
Lone Star Steakhouse
Bring your under-12 kids to Lone Star Steakhouse at 4810 C St. in Anchorage on Tuesdays. With one adult entrée purchased you can receive up to two kids’ meals free! Reach Lone Star by phone at 907-562-7827.
Texas Roadhouse
Monday, from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. is Kids’ Night at Texas Roadhouse in Anchorage. Not only are kids’ meals free but there is lots of fun for them as well, with eating contests, face painting, a balloon artist and more.
Head to the Texas Roadhouse location at 1154 N. Muldoon Road. Call 907-333-8930 for details.
Hard Rock Café
Monday is kids’ night at the Hard Rock Café in Anchorage. You must purchase an adult entrée to get the deal. You’ll also get 2 hours of validated parking at the 5th, 6th, 7th & JC Penny Garages. Hey, this could turn out to be a very inexpensive outing!
Hard Rock is located at Fourth Avenue and E Street in Anchorage. Reach them by phone at 907-274-7625. This deal is good through December 31, 2015.
TGI Fridays
Sunday family dinner, if you spend it at TGI Fridays, can be your weekly budget saver. From 11:00 a.m. until 11 p.m. kids eat free. Find TGI Friday in Anchorage at 190 West Tudor Rd. Call ahead for details at 907-563-8443.<br /><br />Related Links<a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/blog/" target="_blank">Read more from our Anchorage real estate blog</a><a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/property-search/search-form/" target="_blank">Search the Anchorage MLS - every home listed for sale is here!</a><a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/communities.php" target="_blank">Learn about the neighborhoods in Anchorage</a>2016-07-28T06:41:00-07:002020-03-18T02:38:06-07:00Ryan Tollefsentag:anchoragerealestate.com,2012-09-20:3209What can I do to get my Southcentral home ready to sell this fall?<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1716/image/uploads/agent-38/28 July What can i do to get ready.jpg" alt="fall foliage looking out a window onto a lake" width="513" height="450" class="img_box_center" />
If you’re one of the many Southcentral homeowners planning to sell this fall, the time to prepare is right now, believe it or not. You’ll have some competition once autumn hits and anything you can do to smooth the way now will put you way out in front of the rest of them.
You can hire the Unity Home Group Team now as well and we can take care of the photography (see number 1 below), get the marketing plan pinned down and help you in other ways as well.
Here are some additional tips to help you hit the ground running in fall:
1. Photograph the home
The National Association of Realtors (NAR) claims that 90 percent of homebuyers shopped online at some point during their home search. Most of these buyers say that if a listing lacks photos they will skip it. This is why Unity Home Group’s digital marketing plan is so critical to our listing clients’ success. We employ a professional photographer for every listing, ensuring that only clear, compelling photos appear in all of our marketing materials for the homes we list.
Anything we can do now to prepare the marketing pieces for the home paves the way for a quick listing and ensures the home is ready for buyers’ eyes. Our professional photographer can come out and take the photos now so we can kick our marketing plan into high gear when fall rolls around.
2. Have the home inspected
Sure, the buyer will have the home inspected, but why wait to find out about items you’ll need to eventually fix? Have the home professionally inspected and get to work making the necessary repairs. This way your home, unlike those you’ll be competing against, will be in turnkey condition when it hits the market.
3. Pack and store
You’ll need to rent a storage unit to hold everything you’ll be taking with you when you move and Anchorage has no shortage of self-storage businesses from which to choose. Rent one that is large enough to hold not only all of the boxes you’ll be moving when the house sells, but furniture as well. You may find that you’ll need to remove some of your furniture when staging the home in fall.
No, it’s not too early to start packing and a good place to begin is in the garage. Go through all those boxes, get rid of what you don’t want and pack away the rest for the move – in the rented storage unit. Pack up the interior of the home as well – anything you can remove from the home will help rooms, closets, cupboards and drawers appear roomier and it will make the decluttering and organizing process much easier.
4. Ensure your curb appeal
Selling in autumn means keeping the yard leaf and debris-free is going to be an ongoing battle. What you can do now is lay down fresh mulch in the planting beds, paint the front door and the mailbox and consider what types of fall color you can add when the time comes.
How’s the porch furniture looking? Drag it into the garage and give it a new coat of paint. While you’re at the home improvement store to buy the paint, consider picking up some bigger, bolder house numbers as well.
5. Clean
As we get closer to fall it will be important to rid the home of odors by washing or dry cleaning everything that traps them. This includes curtains and drapes, mini-blinds, upholstered furniture and carpets.
While we don’t want to wreck your summer leisure time, if you hope to be ready for the fall Southcentral real estate market, now is the time to prepare.<br /><br />Related Links<a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/blog/category/selling/" target="_blank">Get more tips about selling a home in Anchorage</a><a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/property-search/search-form/" target="_blank">Search for your next home in Southcentral Alaska - every home listed for sale is here</a><a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/home-evaluation.php" target="_blank">Reach out to the Unity Home Group for your FREE home evaluation</a>2016-07-26T06:38:00-07:002020-03-17T06:29:26-07:00Ryan Tollefsentag:anchoragerealestate.com,2012-09-20:3208A Southcentral homeowner’s dilemma: Should we buy first or sell first?<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1716/image/uploads/agent-38/21 July 2016 buy or sell.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="375" class="img_box_center" />
Realtor.com recently asked homebuyers what is standing in their way of purchasing a home. Most claimed that they couldn’t find a home to fit their needs, but 10 percent say they’re concerned about selling their current home. That brings up the age-old “chicken-and-egg” real estate conundrum: What comes first, buying or selling? The answer to that depends on several factors:
Equity
The amount of equity you have in the home will help determine the sequence ? whether you should sell first or buy first. If you need the proceeds from the sale of your current home for the down payment and closing costs on the new one, you may need to sell first. Or, take advantage of some of the alternative solutions that we’ll explain below.
Your income
Can you afford to make two house payments? If so, and you can qualify for a mortgage on the new home while still making payments on the current one, then buying first won’t be a problem for you.
Your stress tolerance
Even if you can afford to make two mortgage payments every month, if the notion makes your palms sweat and your heart beat double-time, perhaps your stress tolerance is too low to buy first.
Current market dynamics
One of the most important considerations is the state of the current Southcentral real estate market. In a sellers’ market you’ll have no problem selling your current home. After it sells, however, you’ll become a buyer, competing against other buyers in this tight-inventory housing market.
Solutions
Let’s take a brief look at some solutions for homeowners who are faced with the “should I sell first or buy first” question.
HELOC
Short for “home equity line of credit,” a HELOC allows you tap into the equity in your current home to use to purchase the new home. Since lenders aren’t in the market to make short-term deals (the longer the loan or line of credit, the more money they make), the best time to pursue this solution is before you list the home for sale. This isn’t to say you can’t get a HELOC if the home is on the market, but there may be fees attached that wouldn’t otherwise exist, such as a cancellation charge.
If you decide to look into obtaining a HELOC, remember that it will affect your debt-to-income ratio and, therefore, your ability to qualify for a loan for the new home. The lender will want to see that you can afford both mortgage payments as well as the payments for the HELOC, regardless of your plans to pay off the HELOC when the home sells.
Borrow against your 401(k)
One of the worst decisions you can make, according to many financial experts, is to liquidate your retirement accounts to come up with the cash needed to buy a home. Borrowing against your 401(k), however, may be a smart move. Sure, you’ll lose the compounding benefits of that money, but you won’t rack up the taxes and penalties you would were you to liquidate the account.
Most employers permit 401(k) loans to purchase a home but please speak with your financial planner before deciding on this option.
Negotiate the terms
While these strategies work best under buyer-friendly market conditions, they’re worth considering under all conditions when you decide to sell your current home before buying the new one. Negotiate a longer escrow on your home sale, for instance, 90 days. This gives you a full three months to find the new home. Another option is to ask the buyer of your current home for a short-term rent-back. Make the situation more attractive by offering a hefty security deposit and rent payments that will cover their mortgage payments. You’ll want to discuss the ramifications of a rent-back with your attorney and your insurance agent to ensure both parties are protected.
Simultaneous close
If all else fails, look into performing a simultaneous close ? timing the close of the sale of your current home with that of the home you’re buying. I must warn you, this is a delicate balancing act and it doesn’t always work. If, for some reason, the first close doesn't occur you won't have the funds to close on the second home.
A successful simultaneous closing requires careful planning and diligence in keeping track of the myriad of details involved in closing on two real estate transactions. Your choice of real estate teams is critical if you hope to be successful with this process. Ensure that the team you choose has experience with the detailed planning and coordination required when attempting a simultaneous closing.
Before our clients consider pursuing the simultaneous close we advise them to examine their buyers' motivation. Are they in a hurry or do they have the luxury of taking their time during the home purchase? How badly do they want the home?
Should you decide to use the Unity Home Group Team to pursue the simultaneous close, here is what we will do to facilitate it:
Make the purchase of the new home contingent on the successful sale of your current home. This type of contingency isn't attractive to sellers, so we'll need to analyze the current market to ensure this is the right move.
We will select a realistic closing date.During the time it takes to close on your home, we will follow up with you to ensure that you are paying attention to your duties -- finalizing the financing of the new home, repairs, scheduling inspections and reading HOA documents, if they apply. This way we'll have all our ducks in a row on closing day.
Whether to buy or sell first is a common dilemma and both have their plusses and minuses.
We’re happy to discuss this with you in more detail. Give us a call at 907-360-1600!<br /><br />Related Links<a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/blog/" target="_blank">Get more home buying and selling tips</a><a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/property-search/search-form/" target="_blank">Search Southcentral and Anchorage MLS listings of homes for sale. Get ALL the listings!</a><a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/home-evaluation.php" target="_blank">Need to know how much your home is worth in today's market? Find out for FREE!</a>2016-07-21T07:58:00-07:002020-03-20T07:43:43-07:00Ryan Tollefsentag:anchoragerealestate.com,2012-09-20:32075 common real estate myths<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1716/image/uploads/agent-38/14 July 2016 most common real estate.jpg" alt="pen writing once upon a time" width="500" height="268" class="img_box_center" />
Have you ever wondered who starts myths and why? Sure, the old fairy tales and legends are harmless but what about those regarding real estate? These are far more dangerous, especially to your bank account.
It’s time for a little real estate myth busting.
1. I’ll make a ridiculously low offer. After all, it’s a buyers’ market
Yes, homebuyers have far more control over a real estate transaction when there are lots of homes on the market but few buyers. This doesn’t mean, however, that it’s bargain basement shopping time. If you find a home you truly want, you’ll run the risk of insulting the seller and, regardless of how badly he needs to sell, he may not sell to you.<br />Many homeowners have longtime roots in the neighborhood and a very real emotional attachment to their homes. Offering a lowball price will not endear you to him and, even if he counters your offer at a higher price, you’ve already insulted him and it will taint the entire transaction. It’s doubtful he’ll be amenable to future requests for payment for repairs, extensions of timelines or to changing other items in the contract.<br />Rely on your agent to apprise you of the home’s current market value and walk that line between ridiculous and feasible when determining how much to offer.
2. Short sales are easier on your credit than foreclosures
Guess what? Both a foreclosure and a short sale impact your credit the same. They are both reported to the credit bureaus as accounts “not paid as agreed,” according to Fair Isaac, the company that calculates our FICO scores.
3. It’s better to wait until the home prices hit rock bottom to buy a house
That sounds like excellent advice. But tell me, how will you know that prices have hit their bottom? When they start going back up, right? By then, the bottom of the market is in your rearview mirror. The best time to buy a house is when you have the money and you find a house you love.<br />4. I have to have a huge down payment to buy a home<br />If it weren’t for the media, this myth would’ve died a long time ago. Yes, you’ll have lower mortgage payments and you’ll get to skip the requirement to purchase private mortgage insurance if you put down at least 20 percent, but there are loan products on the market that require as little as 3 percent for a down payment. The USDA loan and the VA loan require zero down payment.
5. Buyers like negotiating on price so I’ll overprice my home to leave room for that
While this might work in a sellers’ market when there are few decent homes on the market and lots of buyers wanting to purchase, it’s the kiss of death in a buyers’ market.<br />Instead of attracting buyers, an overpriced home repels them.
Even if you should attract a buyer who offers what you’re asking, what are the chances the house will appraise for that inflated price? You most likely will end up having to drop the price to save the deal.
Always rely on the advice of your real estate agent to avoid problems with any of these real estate myths.<br /><br />Related Links<a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/blog/" target="_blank">Read more from our Anchorage real estate blog</a><a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/property-search/search-form/" target="_blank">Search the listings of homes for sale in Anchorage MLS</a><a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/home-evaluation.php" target="_blank">Thinking of selling your home in Anchorage? Find out what it's worth - FREE!</a>2016-07-14T06:39:00-07:002020-03-22T09:14:42-07:00Ryan Tollefsentag:anchoragerealestate.com,2012-09-20:32065 best home fixes for the money<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1716/image/uploads/agent-38/handyman plumber pipe faucet_opt.jpg" alt="Handyman repairing kitchen faucet" width="500" height="332" class="img_box_center" />Certain repairs simply must be made before selling your home in Anchorage. A leaky roof, broken windows and an inoperable furnace aren’t going to fly with buyers. Other fixes, however, aren’t as important but they may help sell the house.
“You want to spend as little as you possibly can on the improvements that make the most sense, and ignore the ones that you’re really dreaming about because you’ll never get your money back,” Barbara Corcoran tells the Today Show.
Front and Center
One of the best fixes you can make for the money is anything that is wrong with the home’s exterior, visible from the street. In other words, give the place some curb appeal by fixing all of the following:
Sagging and/or torn window and front-door screens
Peeling paint on railings or trim
Leaves, weeds in the gutters
Dead or dying landscaping
Dirty windows
Consider giving the front door a fresh coat of paint, adding a new welcome mat, new house numbers and freshening up the mailbox. If the lawn is beyond help, installing sod will give the home’s exterior instant curb appeal. Of course, here in Alaska, November isn’t exactly the ideal time to install a new lawn. Thankfully, the old lawn should be covered by a nice layer of snow.
Underfoot
Unless they’re high-end and impeccably clean, it may be worth it to remove the carpets and install hardwood or tile. Especially if your home is in the starter range – something priced right for the first-time buyer – by all means, rip out those carpets!
According to a 2012 Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate homeownership survey, younger buyers are turned off by carpet. You may be lucky enough to have hardwood under the carpet. If not, and your budget is tight, consider installing laminate flooring.
Take a good look at the kitchen and bathroom vinyl as well and rip it out and replace it if it’s dated or worn.
Walls and Baseboards
New paint on the walls is an inexpensive way to completely change a room from dull and outdated to fresh and contemporary. Since you’re trying to sell your home and not prepare it for its 15 minutes of fame on HGTV, stick to neutral colors.
Now, this doesn’t mean you need to stick with the boring beige or even white. Neutral colors that are attractive on walls include different shades of gray or a gray-blue, a muted robin’s egg blue-green and some of the beige shades that lean to the color of café au lait.
Yes, they’re close to the ground and it’s easy to think that nobody notices them, but baseboards grab attention – especially if they are clean or freshly painted. Sometimes all it takes is a swipe with a Magic Eraser to remove the scuffs. If you paint the walls, don’t neglect the baseboards.
Lighten and Brighten
Good lighting is important during home showings. Dim houses feel closed-in while light and bright spaces make the home look larger. There are lots of ways to fix a dark home. Open all the window coverings before a showing and wash the windows to let in as much natural light as possible.
Since you’ll be marketing the home when the weather is gloomy, consider buying new light fixtures and lamps. It may seem like an expensive undertaking but consider this: Spending as little as $200 to $300 on new light fixtures, lamps and bulbs will net you a 572 percent return on your money, according to HomeGain’s Home Sale Maximizer Guide.
Not only will new fixtures add light to a room, but they may also make the entire room look fresh and updated.
Repair Plumbing
Leaky faucets and running toilets tell buyers two things: the home hasn’t been maintained and there may be a big repair bill if they purchase the home. Minor plumbing repairs aren’t difficult to do yourself if you have the proper tools. Otherwise hire a plumber or handyman to fix the leaks and drips before the house goes on the market.
These are just a few minor fixes you may want to perform before listing your home for sale. Take a walk around both the outside and the inside of your home and try to see it through a stranger's eyes. You'll be surprised what will catch your attention and, perhaps, make it onto your repair list.<br /><br />Related Links<a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/blog/category/selling/" target="_blank">Need more tips on selling a home in Anchorage? Find them here!</a><a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/property-search/search-form/" target="_blank">Search for homes for sale in Anchorage MLS</a><a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/contact.php" target="_blank">Speak with the Unity Home Group before selling your Anchorage home</a>2016-07-07T07:44:00-07:002020-03-19T01:54:40-07:00Ryan Tollefsentag:anchoragerealestate.com,2012-09-20:3205Celebrate July, Alaska Style<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1716/image/uploads/agent-38/5 July 2016 celebrate july.jpg" alt="Ice cream cone" width="500" height="333" class="img_box_center" />
In the year 1776, on July 4, the thirteen colonies formally claimed independence from England, via a Declaration of Independence, drafted two days earlier. We were in the midst of the Revolutionary War at the time and folks’ complaints included being unfairly taxed and that their grievances were ignored. Then, there were the religious and economic issues of the day.
From the Boston Massacre in 1770 to the Boston Tea Party in 1773, with King George, in 1774, giving away large grants of land to Quebec (land the colonists considered theirs), to the battles of Lexington and Concorde, this period of American history shows a young country feeling its oats.
So, sure, say the word “July” to an American, and the seminal event of 239 years ago still comes into sharp focus: Independence Day.
Thanks to our friends at Mental Floss, however, we’ve found some additional, little-known holidays to celebrate in July.
National Ice Cream Month
Ronald Reagan is known for many things, but being the man to declare July “National Ice Cream Month” is typically not among them. The third Sunday in July is “National Ice Cream Day,” however and the members of Keller Williams’ Unity Home Group feel that this day should get far more attention than it does. Making it a tradition to consume nothing but ice cream ? especially from Gelato Kudrino or Moose A’la Mode? for your three squares on this day would be a good start, don’t you think?
World UFO Day
If you’re a bona-fide UFO believer you may want to schedule your summer vacay to coincide with World UFO Day. How about Las Vegas? Several companies offer tours down the Extraterrestrial Highway with stops at a number of locations beloved by UFO enthusiasts. Although you can’t get too close to the Nevada Test Site and Area 51, some companies will deliver you as close as you can get, while military guards watch from a distance.
Teddy Bear Picnic Day
Although we’d never heard of it before, it struck us that this would be a great excuse for a little father-daughter or mother-daughter bonding. This year Teddy Bear Picnic Day (July 10 every year) falls on a Friday so you’ll need to either take the day off, take a long lunch or make it a picnic dinner.
Pick up some sandwiches at Brown Bag Sandwich Company or Tinker’s Rainforest Deli, toss them into the picnic basket, grab the kid and some of her Teddy bears and head out to Point Woronzof, Lyn Ary Park or Eagle River Nature Center.
Pig-Out Month
July is also National Blueberry Month and National Hot Dog Month. Within the month, you can celebrate Sidewalk Egg Frying Day, National Fried Chicken Day, Chocolate Day, National Strawberry Sundae Day, National Sugar Cookie Day and days to celebrate and enjoy pecan pie, tapioca pudding, fresh spinach, peach ice cream, raspberry cake, lollipops and cheesecake. Or, you can skip all of the above and take part in National Junk Food Day on July 21st. <br /><br />Related Links<a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/blog/" target="_blank">Read more from our Anchorage real estate blog</a><a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/property-search/search-form/" target="_blank">Search the listings of homes for sale in Anchorage - home for sale in the MLS is here!</a><a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/selling.php" target="_blank">Don't sell your Southcentral Alaska home without reading this!</a>2016-07-05T05:30:00-07:002020-03-20T04:59:42-07:00Ryan Tollefsentag:anchoragerealestate.com,2012-09-20:3204Out’N About In Southcentral in July<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1716/image/uploads/agent-38/30 June 2016 out n about_opt.jpg" alt="" width="450" height="681" class="img_box_center" />
Happy July! We’re knee-deep in summer and the events calendar is packed with ways to have fun in Southcentral.
July 1-3
Girdwood Forest Fair
Looking for food, games, and live performances before Independence Day? You don’t need to travel far. The annual Girdwood Forest Fair runs from 11 a.m. on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. It’s a terrific place to shop for handcrafted items and sample exotic foods. You can also catch the Forest Fair Parade at 10 a.m. on Saturday. Entrance is free for this summertime classic. Find information regarding parking and entertainment at girdwoodforestfair.com.
July 3
Eagle River 4th of July Fireworks
The first official Independence Day fireworks celebration begins at midnight at Lions Park. The entertainment starts at 6:30 p.m. so everyone has a chance to enjoy games and witness daring skydivers. Hosted by the Eagle River Lions Club, this July Fourth celebration is free to enjoy. Grab your picnic basket and a blanket and head over to Mile 1.5 of Eagle River Road or visit cer.org for details.
July 4
Anchorage July 4th Celebration Parade and Festival
Anchorage’s Fourth of July celebrations have become a tradition for locals and visitors alike. Activities center around Delaney Park, beginning with a charity pancake breakfast at 8 a.m. The Anchorage July Fourth Parade starts at 11 a.m., but the festivities don’t stop until the last performance ends at 6 p.m. Want to know what’s happening in Anchorage this Independence Day? Check out anchoragejuly4thcelebration.com.
July 6-10
Bear Paw Festival
The Bear Paw Festival will soon become a fast favorite with your family. Hosted by the Chugiak-Eagle River Chamber of Commerce, this festival features a classic car show, a 5K run, a teddy bear picnic, a parade, and plenty of food to enjoy. Get involved in the games and competitions or just stroll the grounds. For more information, including details regarding parking and road closures, visit bearpawfestival.org or call (907) 694-4702.
July 8
Palmer Wine Walk
This is Palmer Museum’s first wine walk, but it surely won’t be the last. Located at Palmer Art Walk businesses, ticket holders receive a customized wine yolk and personal wine glass. There are seven wines to taste while viewing regional artwork and soaking in the sounds of local performer Meggie Aube. Tickets are $35, and the event is limited to attendees 21 and over. The event begins at 6 p.m. Complete information is available at <a href="http://palmermuseum.org/" target="_blank">palmermuseum.org</a>.
July 9
Palmer Midsummer Garden & Art Faire
Whether you enjoy gardening or have a burgeoning local art collection, this annual art and gardening event in Palmer is not to be missed. And, you don’t need a passion for paintings or plants either; with tempting food and performances lasting from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., there is a little something for everyone. Details on this event, including workshops, challenges, and performances can be found at <a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/backend/blog/entries/add/palmergardenandart.org" target="_blank">palmergardenandart.org</a>.
July 16-17
Urban Junktion Vintage Market
You won’t find another shopping event like this one! The Urban Junktion takes over the Menard Sports Complex in Wasilla for two days in July. Local small businesses and artisans will sell a variety vintage, handmade, and upcycled products across decorating styles and genres. Entrance is $5 for a wristband that allows access on both days and children aged 12 and younger get in for free. If it’s time to spruce your home or wardrobe, you can’t miss this event. Want more information? Visit urbanjunktion.com.
July 23
Crow Pass Crossing
This annual backcountry race isn’t for everyone. Runners cross 24 miles of tough terrain and rivers between Girdwood and Eagle River in their quest to cross the finish line. Limited to experienced runners, participants can expect wild animals around every corner before ending their challenge at the Eagle River Nature Center. Entrance to this competition is $70 and limited 150 runners. For more information, call Mike Friess on (907) 786-1325.
July 24
Palmer Pride Picnic
Once a year, the City of Palmer and its businesses host a free picnic at the Palmer Railroad Depot. Live music and a presentation of the Citizen of the Year Award along with Palmer Pride hotdogs and fresh vegetables offer a diverting background for this picnic. This free event lasts from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., and you can call (907) 745-2880 or visit palmerchamber.org for more information on this Palmer tradition.
July 30-31
Arctic Thunder Air Show
Gates open at 9 a.m. on both days of this aviation event and the flying displays begin at 11 a.m. Of course, the highlight is the U.S. Navy Blue Angels demonstration featuring around 40 technical maneuvers. On the ground, visitors can tour displays and demos of military aircraft. Admission to this event at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson is free, including parking. Alaskaairshow.org has more information on the event and featured aircraft. <br /><br />Related Links<a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/blog/" target="_blank">Read more from our Anchorage blog</a><a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/property-search/search-form/" target="_blank">Every listing of every home for sale in Anchorage MLS is right here!</a><a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/home-evaluation.php" target="_blank">Thinking of selling your home in Anchorage? Find out what it's worth - FREE!</a>2016-06-30T04:57:00-07:002020-03-22T02:47:49-07:00Ryan Tollefsentag:anchoragerealestate.com,2012-09-20:32033 Ways to Help your Adult Child Purchase a Home in Anchorage<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1716/image/uploads/agent-38/28 June 2016 Ways to help adult child.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="334" class="img_box_center" />
Our Millennial generation is struggling. From heavy student loan debt to a lack of jobs, those that want to purchase a home are typically unable to do so. In fact, according to the United States Census Bureau, about 30 percent of them are still living at home with their parents.
Many Anchorage parents want to help. Many can’t. If you are among those that can - whether your aim is to push the “baby” bird from the nest or help him build wealth the American way, through real estate – how can you help?
Should you help?
The pick-yourself-up-by-the-bootstraps type of parent may worry about creating a financially-dependent monster by giving their child a house in Anchorage. This may happen but, then again, it may not. It depends on your offspring’s level of responsibility and maturity.
The mature, responsible adult child may just require a leg-up on the ladder to self-sufficiency. If so, consider your financial help an investment.
The different forms of “help”
“Help,” can take a number of forms. If you can afford it, you might purchase an Anchorage home outright and give it to your child. Consider these strategies, as well:
Use a share-equity agreement when you purchase the home.
Help your child purchase by gifting the down payment and closing costs.
Be the lender by loaning the money to your child at a lower-than-market interest rate.
Let’s take a closer look at some of these alternatives.
The share-equity plan
If your child has some of the money she will need to buy a home in Anchorage, a shared equity financing agreement may be the ideal way to help. You will contribute the money she lacks and then treat your share of the home as an investment, deducting your part of the expenses, mortgage interest and maintenance on your taxes. This is definitely a situation that requires the assistance of an attorney and/or accountant.
Be the lender
Consider making a loan for either the down payment or for the purchase price, depending on your child’s financial circumstances. This will need to be done legally, with all the proper documents, stating specific repayment terms. Whether or not to charge interest is entirely up to you. Again, this is a situation that requires the assistance of a professional or two, such as your accountant and attorney.
Buy it and lease it
If you have the extra money you may just want to purchase the home outright and gift it to the child over an extended period of time. This can be done via a lease-option arrangement (wherein you still maintain the tax benefits of owning the home) or via a rental agreement in which you gift a percentage of ownership each year (to stay under the gift tax penalty) until he owns the home in its entirety.
Whichever route you choose to take to help your adult child on the road to homeownership in Anchorage, it is critical that you talk it over first with your financial advisor. <br /><br />Related Links<a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/blog/" target="_blank">Read more from our Anchorage real estate blog</a><a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/property-search/search-form/" target="_blank">Search the listings of homes for sale in Anchorage MLS</a><a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/home-evaluation.php" target="_blank">Home much is your Anchorage home worth? Find out now -- FREE!</a>2016-06-28T11:43:00-07:002020-03-21T01:14:00-07:00Ryan Tollefsentag:anchoragerealestate.com,2012-09-20:3202What to do about your Mortgage if you lose your Job<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1716/image/uploads/agent-38/21 June 2016 what to do about your mortgage.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="334" class="img_box_center" />
For a while now, Alaska has been shedding jobs in the oil and gas industry but the experts say the unemployment rate of 6.6 percent is now holding steady. While that is significantly higher than the rest of the nation, we’re happy to see it stop sliding downward.
If you are among the unfortunate who have lost jobs and feel that you can’t make your mortgage payments, don’t panic. While you decide on the next step to take, keep the following in mind.
Be Proactive
Don’t hide from your lender. Gather up all your bills and figure out exactly where you stand financially. Know how much money is coming in every month, how much you owe to others and where you can make cuts in your budget.
Once you are clear on your financial situation, contact your lender and make a proposal. If your situation is temporary ask for a forbearance until you are back on your feet. This is an agreement between yourself and the lender in which it promises not to exercise its right to foreclose on your mortgage and you agree to a plan in which you will come current on your payments over a certain time period. Again, this is only for a borrower in a temporary financial crunch.
If, after going over your budget you find that you can make smaller payments, ask the lender for a five-year loan extension. This will naturally reduce your monthly loan payment. Not all lenders are willing to make such an extension, in which case you’ll need to think about more drastic options. These include asking the lender to consider a deed-in-lieu of foreclosure, a short sale, mortgage modification and even bankruptcy.
Keep Your Money
Although we’ve come a long way in mitigating the foreclosure-avoidance scams of the past, they do still exist. Don’t give money to anyone who says he or she can help you avoid foreclosure while you’re unemployed. There is a lot of low-cost help out there and some programs are even free.
The Homeownership Preservation Foundation (HPF) is nonprofit organization that operates a toll-free hotline (1.888.995.HOPE). You can call this number 24 hours a day, seven days a week for free, personalized assistance. The United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) offers free foreclosure avoidance counseling services in Anchorage through Money Management International. Call them at 866-232-9080.
The most important thing you can do when you lose your job and fear you may be facing foreclosure is to examine all of your options and choose the best solution for you and your family.<br /><br />Related Links<a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/blog/category/homeowner-tips/" target="_blank">Get more Southcentral homeowner tips</a><a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/property-search/search-form/" target="_blank">Search for homes for sale in Southcentral Alaska</a><a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/blog/category/selling/" target="_blank">Thinking of selling your Southcentral home? Get all the tips you need here!</a>2016-06-21T07:35:00-07:002020-03-20T04:37:39-07:00Ryan Tollefsentag:anchoragerealestate.com,2012-09-20:3201Buying a house in Southcentral? Heed these warnings (part II)<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1716/image/uploads/agent-38/16June 2016.png" alt="" width="450" height="389" class="img_box_center" />
Last week we took a look at some of the most common problems we see among local homebuyers. Today we wrap up the series with four additional tips for buying a home in Southcentral.
Vision
We’ve worked with many buyers who just can’t look beyond the cosmetics ? you know, dated wallpaper, stained or ripped carpets and even something as simple as laundry piled on the sofa. Before you enter even one door, realize that what’s behind it may not necessarily be what you’ll be living with for the rest of the time you own the home.
On the other hand, what you see may not necessarily be the reality of what living in the home will be like either. Staging homes is a common marketing tool and adds elements to the home that will be removed by the time you move in. Look beyond the attractive staging to the “bones” of the home.
The HOA documents
If you’re purchasing a home in a managed community in Southcentral you’ll be provided with a packet of homeowners association documents. These include meeting minutes, the budget, the rules and more. It represents at least a week’s worth of boring reading for people that aren’t prepared or qualified to read the legal jargon. We warned you about this last month.
Avoid the urge to skim the paperwork; what’s in it will determine your future enjoyment of your new home. If you don’t have the time or the inclination to read the documents, hire an attorney to do it for you and then to explain everything to you in plain English.
Make your offer in accordance with current market conditions
Most of us know that guy or gal that feels he or she has to bargain over just about any item purchased. The same holds true in real estate. Just as you wouldn’t haggle with a REI sales clerk over those $1,300 high-performance ski boots, you should never try to bargain down the sales price of a home in a seller’s market. You won’t win the battle with other buyers if you haggle over contingencies and concessions either.
Not understanding the current Southcentral market can not only lead you to missing out on the home you really want, but it can cost you money as well. In a buyer’s market, for instance, no matter how badly you want a particular house, you’re in the driver’s seat and you need to slow down to avoid giving money away.
Inspect the home inspection report
The home inspector’s job is to point out problems (both small and large) that he or she observes while inspecting the home. Many inspectors will take lots of pictures which are subsequently enlarged to show the details of the findings. Sometimes the photos are downright humongous, so that even tiny problems appear massive.
Don’t freak out over something that may not be as bad as it looks in the photos. Understand as well that many larger problems may be dealt with through further negotiations with the seller.<br /><br />Related Links<a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/blog/category/buying/" target="_blank">Get more tips on buying a home in Southcentral Alaska</a><a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/property-search/search-form/" target="_blank">Search for home listings in Anchorage MLS</a><a href="https://www.anchoragerealestate.com/blog/category/selling/" target="_blank">Thinking of selling your Southcentral home? Get all the tips you need here!</a>2016-06-16T08:57:00-07:002020-03-21T06:07:01-07:00Ryan Tollefsen