Pauline Hofseth's Anchorage Real Estate Blog

Public Workshop for Midtown Anchorage Growth

Pauline Hofseth (Prudential Jack White/Vista Real Estate) — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 11:23:28 -0600

A public workshop discussing midtown Anchorage growth will be held in the conference room of the Loussac Public Library from 6-8:30pm on Thursday, November 19, 2009. A special presentation is scheduled for 7pm, with a discussion following. The Midtown District Plan has gone through several incarnations over the last couple of years. The Municipality of Anchorage (MOA) wants to hear any public comments, criticisms or ideas. They are happy to implement anything that makes the Midtown District Plan stronger. The deadline for all Anchorage residents to make public comment on the Public Review Draft are due by December 15, 2009. The final review will be submitted at that time. You can download a copy of the Public Review Draft here. All public comments can be made in person at the public workshop on Thursday, November 19th, via email to Tana Klunder at klundertg@ci.anchorage.ak.us or via snail mail to:

ATTN: Midtown District Plan
4700 Elmore Rd, 2nd Floor
Anchorage, AK 99507

All snail mail must be received well in advance of the December 15, 2009 to be considered to be included in the final review. Please make plans to come to the public workshop for Midtown Anchorage Growth on Thursday, November 19th to make sure to get your thoughts and opinions considered for this important project for the Anchorage economy.

Pauline Hofseth, your Anchorage real estate expert

Anchorage Swine Flu Vaccinations Delayed

Pauline Hofseth (Prudential Jack White/Vista Real Estate) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 16:25:45 -0600

The Anchorage swine flu vaccinations have been delayed due to a shortage of H1N1 vacine. The Anchorage Department of Health and Human Services (ADDHS) will not be providing vaccinations at their clinic this week. However, the Anchorage School District will be providing the H1N1 vaccine to elementary school children this week as previously scheduled. The ADHHS does not have a new date scheduled yet to resume group shots for the public. As soon as more shipments of vaccine come in, they will continue providing free vaccinations in their clinic. The Anchorage Neighborhood Health Center will continue to provide free shots Monday through Friday.

For the latest information on the availability of H1N1 vaccine through the Department of Health and Human Services, please visit the ADHHS website. The delay is only temporary.

Pauline Hofseth, your Anchorage real estate expert

H1N1 Vaccine Now Available for FREE in Anchorage

Pauline Hofseth (Prudential Jack White/Vista Real Estate) — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 18:05:30 -0500

The H1N1 vaccine is now available for FREE to kids ages 2-18 in Anchorage. While the vaccine to help prevent the "Swine Flu" is limited to children in this age bracket for now, it is expected to be available for everyone over the age of 6 months as soon as more shipments arrive, which should be very soon. Right now, the Anchorage Department of Health wants to focus on the children that are at highest risk for hospitalization. The vaccine will be available at the Neighborhood Health Center every Monday through Friday from 8-11am and 1-4pm. The vaccine will be administered as long as it is available. Regular shipments are expected to continue over the next several weeks.

The Municipality of Anchorage Department of Health and Human Services is planning to make the H1N1 vaccine available on a much larger public scale to Anchorage residents throughout November and December. And it will be absolutely FREE to the public. The Anchorage School District is expected to start offering FREE H1N1 vaccinations for all their students beginning in November as well. To find out who is offering the vaccine and where you can get it, please visit the Municipality of Anchorage's website. Bookmark it and visit it often, as dates and times are updated daily.

Pauline Hofseth, your Anchorage real estate expert

Trick or Treat Town in Anchorage

Pauline Hofseth (Prudential Jack White/Vista Real Estate) — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 23:02:42 -0500

Trick or Treat Town in Anchorage is an annual event that promotes Halloween fun in a safe environment. Held October 23 and 24 at the ACS Warehouse (600 Telephone Ave, Anchorage), kids are allowed to dress up and come out to fill their bags with Halloween treats. On Friday, October 23rd, kids can go trick or treating at 5:30pm or 7pm and on Saturday, October 24th, they can attend the 12pm, 2pm, 4 pm or 6pm sessions. Tickets for the event are now on sale at www.anchoragemuseum.org. This is the 18th year in a row that the museum has held this great family event. Proceeds from the $7 tickets will go to benefit both the museum and the Imaginarium. However, if you wait until the day of the event, it will cost you $10 to get in the door. Get your tickets now! With a turnout of 14,000 people last year, these tickets are not expected to last long!

Pauline Hofseth, your Anchorage real estate expert

The Alaska State Fair

Pauline Hofseth (Prudential Jack White/Vista Real Estate) — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 13:50:32 -0500

The Alaska State Fair was named one of the best events (Top 100) in North America (U.S. and Canada) by the American Bus Assoication in 2008. The Anchorage Daily News has published some special interest stories about the Alaska State Fair. So, I thought I would give you a little history about its orgins and growth.

The Alaska State Fair traces its roots to 1936, when the farming colonists in the Matanuska Valley decided to celebrate their accomplishments in establishing a successful community in the valley. The fair has been an annual tradition, except for the years 1942-1946 due to World War II. The Matanuska Valley Fair Association was formed in July of 1936. As it happened, the Knik River Bridge, which linked the valley to Anchorage, opened about the same time. The opening of the bridge and the existing railroad make it possible for residents throughout the Alaska Territory to come together.

The first fair was a four day event starting on September 4. Among the events at the first fair were baseball games, a horse race, boxing matches, a baby contest and, of course, a Fair Queen. Because the fair was a celebration of success, there were hundreds of agricultural entries, including giant cabbages. The traditional giant cabbage competition of today actually began in 1941, when Max Sherrod won the $25 prize for his 23 pound cabbage.

Much has changed and much has been added to the events and exhibits of Alaska's State Fair, but the fair has remained a time to celebrate the success of our endeavors. S o "Get Up, Get Happy" and visit the Alaska State Fair. See you there!

Alaska State Fair Maps and Directions
Alaska State Fair Schedule

Alaska State Fair Highlights Timeline:

1936 - The first Matanuska Valley Fair.
1938 - Permanent fairgrounds are acquired. The Palmer Pioneer Home now resides at the former fair site.
1941 - Fairgrounds acquired an additional 14 acres.
1941 - Giant Cabbage Contest is established.
1947 - 160 Exhibits
1948 - 205 exhibits
1950 - Carnival rides are added to the fair's attractions.
1951 - An air show is added to the fair's attractions.
1956 - The Fair Board petitions to make the fair the official Alaska State Fair.
1960 - 25th Anniversay attended by John F. Kennedy.
1967 - Fairgrounds acquires its present day location.
1975 - The Colony Village is established.
1997 - Pioneer Plaza and Raven Hall are completed.
1998 - The fair sets its largest attendance record: 361,804 in 18 days.
1998 - The fair set the record for the most exhibit entries: 10,890.
2000 - Fair buries time capsule to be opened in 2036.
2000 - The largest cabbage in the fair's history at 105.6 pounds (grown by Barb Everingham).
2001 - Fairgrounds acquires additional 40 acres, including the Rebarchek gravel pit.
2002 - Fairgrounds acquires the Rebarchek farmhouse along with another five acres of land.
2003 - The fair acquires the Hamilton farmhouse and an addition of 40 acres of land in exchange for the Rebarchek gravel pit.
2004 - The fair opens the Green Gate and Railroad Depot.
2007 - The fair acquires title to the Don Sheldon Events Center.
2007 - PBS (Public Broadcasting Service) features the fair's colorful flower and herb gardens, as well as the giant vegetables grown in Alaska.
2008 - The state of Alaska and the Alaska State Fair celebrate 50 years of statehood.

Pauline Hofseth, your Anchorage real estate resource

Veterans Move To Alaska - Receive Education Assistance

Pauline Hofseth (Prudential Jack White/Vista Real Estate) — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 11:30:37 -0500

Veterans or active duty military personnel can move to Alaska and immediately qualify for in-state tuition assistance. The tuition assistance program is being offered to military dependents as well. The previous requirement of two-year residency for tuition assistance has been eliminated for any active duty personnel, veteran or their family members for all university campuses in Alaska.

The in-state tuition assistance can be combined with the new Post-911 GI Bill (effective August 1). Veterans who take advantage of the offer from Alaska University and qualify for the new Post-911 GI Bill will find that their education is practically free. Funds can be applied to tuition, books and housing costs.

Any veteran, veteran's dependent (spouse or child) or active duty personnel may take advantage of the Alaska University tuition assistance. However, the Post-911 GI Bill funds are limited. Only the veteran or one of their dependents can receive funds for an undergraduate degree.

The tuition assistance being offered to veterans and their families can result in a big savings per semester. If your tuition for a semester at an Anchorage university is $6,000, you would save about $4,000 after the tuition assistance was applied.

Veterans, this may be the opportunity of a lifetime. You can move north to Alaska and live in one of the greatest states in the nation while saving a bundle on your education. There are 16 campuses in Alaska. My favorite, of course, is Anchorage.

University Virtual Tours:

    * UA Anchorage
    * UA Fairbanks
    * UA Southeast (Juneau)

For Tuition Assistance Information:
University of Alaska Anchorage: www.uaa.alaska.edu/financialaid/veterans.cfm
University of Fairbank:http://www.uaf.edu/veterans/.

For GI Bill Information:
Post-911 GI Bill www.gibill.va.gov.

Pauline Hofseth - Your Guide to Anchorage Real Estate

Anchorage Balance Budget Survey

Pauline Hofseth (Prudential Jack White/Vista Real Estate) — Tue, 04 Aug 2009 18:07:53 -0500

Our new Mayor, Daniel Sullivan, is asking you to participate in a survey on how to best balance the Anchorage budget. Mayor Sullivan is taking the time to step back to look at the city services for cost-effectiveness before making decisions on how to spend your tax dollar.

I know that we all have opinions about making Anchorage a better place to live, how the municipality can serve us better and how money should be spent. Many states and cities have found themselves out of money because they have tried to spend their way to prosperity. The only way to prosperity is through common sense budgeting and spending within that budget. Living through overspending and borrowing is an inevitable road to disaster.

Each and every one of us must prioritize the way we spend money, especially if you want to save for the future. Mayor Sullivan seems to recognize the fact that the municipality must do the same.

Please take the time to send your ideas for improvements and budget cuts. Let the Mayor and his administrators know what they can do to serve you better.

Anchorage Survey - if this link does not open the survey page, please go to the municipality website at: http://socsurvey.muni.org/.

Pauline Hofseth - your Anchorage real estate resource guide

Seller Tips for Anchorage

Pauline Hofseth (Prudential Jack White/Vista Real Estate) — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 15:46:50 -0500

Today, I thought I would update sellers on the Anchorage market conditions and share a few tips for sellers and for those thinking of placing their home on the market.

Market Conditions

* There are fewer homes on the market this year compared to 2008 (about 4.8%).
* Competition is still stiff with over 1,200 single-family homes (new construction and resale) and over 500 townhomes/condos for sale.
* Best selling price range is between $225,000 and $350,000 for single-family homes.
* Best selling price range is between $100,000 and $130,000 for townhomes/condos.
* Average days on market vary according to sales price.

Single-Family Residences:

          o Under $180,000 - 120 days
          o $180,000 - $200,000 - over 90 days but less than 120 days
          o $200,000 to $225,000 - about 25 days on market
          o $225,000 to $250,000 - near the 45 day mark
          o $275,000 to $300,000 - near the 90 day mark
          o $300,000 to $350,000 - about 135 day
          o $400,000 to $750,000 - 180 - 210 days or more
          o $750,000 and over - 365 days and as long as 2+ years

Townhomes/Condos

          o $100,000 to $130,000 - 90 days
          o $200,000 and $225,000 - 270 days (due to excess supply)
          o $300,000 and over - 365 days and as long as 20 months

Seller Tips

    * Price it right. If you want your property to sell within the average days on market timeline, you must price competitively.
    * Price it right. Homes which are priced at true market value normally sell first.
    * Homes which are in good condition and reasonably priced will sell before properties in poorer condition.
    * Homes which show well inside and out,and are reasonably priced sell before competing properties in the same price range.
    * Multiple offers are still a possiblity when the home is priced well.
    * Expect buyers to ask for concessions.
    * Be prepared to negotiate on pricing and/or terms when the offer is presented.
    * If you are having a good number of showings but no offers, the home is most likely considered overpriced by buyers, who will continue to shop for a better value.
    * If your home is not receiving any showings, then something is unappealing to buyers, whether it is price, condition or location.
    * You cannot change your location. You may or may not be able to change the condition. However, you can definitely change your asking price to attract buyers.
    * If your home is not selling, talk to your licensee about what corrections need to be made to draw more attention to your home.
    * If you are placing your home on the market, look at the comparative sales in your neighborhood to determine competitive pricing.
    * If you do not want to sell your home in a reasonable amount of time, test the market. However, statistically speaking, testing the market will not only lead to frustration. But, many times, testing the market will result in a selling price less than if the home had been competitively priced when first placed on the market.
    * 95% of buyers begin their property search on the internet.
    * Buyers who research properties on the internet are more informed regarding what they want from a home and what they are willing to pay.
    * More buyers are researching homes on the internet. So, open houses are less effective than in past years.

Pauline Hofseth, your Anchorage real estate resource guide

Yikes! Interest Rates are Jumping in Anchorage!

Pauline Hofseth (Prudential Jack White/Vista Real Estate) — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 15:42:19 -0500

I was looking over my recent blogs and found that not even a month ago I asked "Is it Time for You to Refinance?". When I posted that blog on May 19th, the interest rate was 4.75%. So, homeowners who did not refinance at that time may have missed the boat.

Interest rates have been rising rapidly for the past three weeks. Many states in the lower 48 have already experienced interest rates of 6% and above. Just yesterday, RealtyTimes.com reported that interest rates were going up and no one was predicting how high they will go. Bernard Baumohl of the Economic Outlook Group says that interest rates could go as high as 6.5% in the near future.

After a sudden and rapid rise in interest rates, the interest rates will sometimes fall back temporarily. That must be where we are today because interest rates fell back. Today's Anchorage Alaska mortgage interest rate is: 5.625%.

Are interest rates headed back up or will they continue to go down? It seems even the experts don't know for sure. For the past three weeks. all the mortgage alerts have reported that interest rates were going up and IF they fell back, it would only be slightly. All agree that the days of historically low interest rates (4.5%) are gone, most likely forever.

I am not a mortgage lender nor am I an economist but this is what I would have the Anchorage home buyer remember:

* Interest rates affect your buying power to purchase a home at the same payment.

The move from 4.75% to the current 5.625% has diminished what you can buy by about $15,000.

* Interest rates affect the income required to qualify for the same loan amount.

The move from 4.75% to the current 5.625% has increased the required income by over $4,000 (gross annual income).

Now is the time to buy:

    * Now is the time to buy to take advantage of the buyer's market in Anchorage.
    * Now is the time to buy to take advantage of today's interest rates.
    * Now is the time to buy to take advantage of the first-time home buyer tax credit (escrow must close by Nov 30).

Interest rates were 6.5% a year ago. For eight years before that, they were at the 7% mark. Before that, interest rates were 9% and, at times, in the double digits. Some economic analysts are predicting an inflationary period on the horizon due to the stimulus spending. If that materializes, not only will interest rates soar, but housing prices will increase as well.

Thinking of buying? Now is the time.

Pauline Hofseth, your Anchorage real estate specialist

The Purple Heart Trail Opens in Alaska

Pauline Hofseth (Prudential Jack White/Vista Real Estate) — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 17:13:10 -0500

The Alaskan portion of the Purple Heart Trail will be dedicated in a ceremony this Saturday (June 6, 2009) at 11 a.m. A ceremony will be held dedicating the portion of the Alaska Highway between Fairbanks and Delta Junction honoring those who have served their country and were awarded the Purple Heart Medal for their sacrifice. The ceremony will be held at the Delta Junction Visitor's Center.

Senator Johnny Ellis of Anchorage sponsored a bill to dedicate a portion of the Alaska Highway to the Alaska Legistature. The bill received a unanimous "yes"vote. As is fitting, Senator Ellis will be the keynote speaker at the dedication.

The date chosen for the dedication is quite significant, as it marks the 65th anniversary of D-Day. D-Day, the invasion of France on the Normandy Beach, was the beginning of the end of Word WarII conflict in Europe. June 6, 1944 saw many a brave serviceman earn a Purple Heart Medal with the sacrificing of their lives and blood.

The Vietnam Motorcycle Club will conduct a Fallen Warrior ceremony at the dedication to honor all those who have defended this country and paid the price with their lives.

The Military Order of the Purple Heart began working in 1992 to establish a nationwide trail as a tribute to the men and women who have served and given their all for our freedom. Since that time, 45 states have dedicated portions of their highways due to their efforts. I am very proud that our great State of Alaska is among them.

It is only proper and right that we dedicate a portion of our roadway to honor those who have paved the road to freedom and to keeping this country free with their bloodshed.

Freedom is never "free"!
Pauline Hofseth, your Anchorage real estate expert

D-Day Video

Is it Time for You to Refinance?

Pauline Hofseth (Prudential Jack White/Vista Real Estate) — Tue, 19 May 2009 15:49:53 -0500

In the past two weeks, interest rates began to inch up slightly. This week, RealtyTimes.com reports that today's interest rate fell back. The current interest rate is 4.75% for a 30-year mortgage and 4.5% for a 15-year fixed rate. That report led to today's blog. Depending on your current interest rate, it just may be time for you to consider a refinance. If your loan's interest rate is around 6.5%, a refinance is definitely something you should check into.

* A reduction from a 6.5% to the current 4.75% interest rate would result in a savings of over $200 a month.

If that statement made you perk up your virtual ears, then I would like to remind you about the Making Home Affordable Refinance program sponsored as part of the recovery plan.

* You do not have to be in a distressed situation to take advantage of the program.

Anchorage is one of the places in the nation that the Making Home Affordable program can be of real benefit since our housing has not suffered the steep decline in values that other areas in the lower 48 have experienced. Both Making Home Affordable program and FHA will refinance the loan balance for homeowners who owe more than the property's current value.

* The Making Home Affordable program will refinance your loan balance if it is no more than 105% of the value of the home.
* FHA will refinance your loan balance if the first mortgage is less than 97% of the homes current value.

If you have equity in your home and pay PMI (Private Mortgage Insurance - insurance lenders require if the home was financed with less than 20% down), the savings could be even greater.

* PMI may no longer be required.

Most homeowners can take advantage of the government refinance loan programs.

* Making Home Affordable Program applies to Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac loans.
* FHA also offers a refinance program.

If you have a first and second mortgage, a refinance could eliminate your second mortgage.

* Make only one mortgage payment and save thousands of dollars in interest.

Check out all your options on the type of refinance which will best meet your circumstances and goals before you make a decision.

* Making Home Affordable Program
* FHA Refinance (even if your current loan is financed through FHA)
* An FHA Streamline (current loan must be FHA loan)
* Conventional refinancing through a mortgage lender

Taking advantage of today's refinancing opportunities may be a wise decision, but it does depend on your personal circumstance, finances and goals. I do think it is to the Anchorage homeowner's advantage to check out the possibility of a refinance. When considering a refinance you need to look at your long time goals.

* A refinance is not free. There are fees and points to consider.

According to the various economists and mortgage lenders, interest rates are not expected to decline any lower than 4.5%. However, they are expected to increase as the housing market improves, loan applications increase and the economy recovers.

Pauline Hofseth, your Anchorage real estate resource

Mystery Donor Selects University of Alaska

Pauline Hofseth (Prudential Jack White/Vista Real Estate) — Wed, 06 May 2009 10:39:36 -0500

Thank you to the mystery donor who has made a donation of $7 million to our University of Alaska Anchorage campus. The University of Alaska is one of more than 12 colleges to benefit the mystery donor's generous gifts. In total, various colleges have received over $80 million dollars.

The requirement for receiving the funds is quite simple: "don't ask and don't tell. The donation stipulates that the University must not try to find the mystery donor and, for the few that know, they must never reveal the identity of the mystery person.

Approximately $6 million will be set aside for scholarships for University students, particularly for minority races and women, as requested by the mystery donor. The Seawolf Opportunities Scholarship fund will provide 50 students with full scholarships to the University of Alaska - Anchorage campus. The scholarships will be awarded to first generation college students in need of financial assistance. Additional funds will be awarded to qualifying students as an incentive for completing their Associate and Bachelor degrees.

Only $1 million dollars of this much appreciated gift will go towards the fall opening of the newly completed Conoco Phillips Integrated Science Building. There is no doubt that the kindness and generosity of our mystery donor will change lives for generations to come in Anchorage. It always amazes me when I think of what the power of one person can do to change the world.

Whoever you are, wherever you are...I want to express my personal thank you for your kindness and extreme generosity.

Pauline Hofseth, your Anchorage real estate resource guide

Celebrate Earth Day with a Tax Credit

Pauline Hofseth (Prudential Jack White/Vista Real Estate) — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 17:37:13 -0500

Spring brings thoughts of renewing our homes and gardens. Spring is also the time we celerate Earth Day. I was thinking of how Earth Day relates to Anchorage homeowners beyond recycling. I was also thinking about how green living is becoming increasingly important to the homeowners in terms of the resale value of their homes. These thoughts reminded me that the Federal government is offering to help homeowners go green while improving their homes with a tax credit. The American Reinvestment and Recovery Act is providing a tax credit of 30% ($1500 cap) for energy efficient home improvements.

Home Improvement Tax Credit Guidelines:

    *      The home improvements must be in operating condition or in use starting January 1 of this year and no later than December 31, 2010.
    *      The tax credit applies to the homeowner's prinicipal residence only.
    *      The tax credit applies to all qualifing improvements made, not to each improvement separately.
    *      A Manufacturer Certification Statement is required. You do not have to submit a copy. However, you must have a copy on file.
    *      A receipt for the qualifing home improvement must be kept as well.
    *      The tax credit will be applied to 2009 tax filings (Tax Form 5695).

Home Improvement Tax Credit Exceptions:

* Second homes and rental property are eligible for tax credits when geothermal heat pumps, small wind systems, solar water heaters or solar panels are installed.
* The Home improvement Tax Credit is available until 2016 for fuel cells, geothermal heat pumps, small wind systems, solar water heaters or solar panel systems.

Existing Home Qualifying Systems:

    *      Doors and Storm Doors - Not all ENERGY STAR doors will qualify.
    *      Windows, Storm Windows and/or Skylights - Not all ENERGY STAR labeled windows and skylights qualify for tax credit.
    *      Insulation
    *      Metal or Asphalt roofing
    *      Heating and Air systems - List of qualifying products: Consortium for Energy Efficiency product directory
    *      Energy efficient water heaters - ENERGY STAR criteria for water heaters. A ll gas tankless water heaters qualify.
    *      Bio-mass stoves for household heating or water heating
    *      Geothermal Heat Pumps
    *      Small Wind Systems
    *      Solar Systems (water heaters or panels)
    *      Fuel Cells

If you are planning to build your own home in the near future, there is a tax credit available to you as well.

    *      The tax credit is a no-cap 30% credit.
    *      The tax credit is available until 2016.
    *      The tax credit is limited to fuel cells, geothermal heat pumps, solar water heaters and small wind systems only.

For further details on how the tax credit works and what systems qualify, be sure to visit the Federal Tax Credits For Energy Efficiency website.

There are two benefits to the tax credit program. The first, of course, is the tax credit benefit you receive on your 2009 tax filing. The second is that your home improvement will stimulate our local Anchorage economy with the purchases you make. So, go ahead Anchorage...celebrate Earth Day this year with a tax credit!

Pauline Hofseth, Anchorage Real Estate

Anchorage Still Growing

Pauline Hofseth (Prudential Jack White/Vista Real Estate) — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 16:32:59 -0500

In spite of the economic downturn, Anchorage is still growing. The University Lake Springhill Suites Marriott Hotel is nearing completion, with a grand opening expected in August. The Springhill Suites are located in Midtown. The hotel will not target the normal tourist trade, but will instead look to serve those visiting the UAA and APU campuses, as well those in town for medical reasons.

The Springhill Suites features 159 rooms, many of which overlook the nearby lake or park and many have a view of the Chugach Mountains. In addition to the view, the suites include a coffeemaker, a microwave and a refrigerator. Hotel amenities include a free continental breakfast, a fitness room, a swimming pool and shuttle service to the airport, university and medical district.

Anchorage has added several new new high-rise office buildings to its landscape. Office space is at a premium in Anchorage real estate, so the new additions are much appreciated by local businesses. The Centerpoint West (eight-stories) is scheduled to open later this year. Over half of the space is already leased. The 14-story Augustine Center is scheduled for completion in 2010.

Pauline Hofseth, Anchorage Real Estate

Alaska Credit Unions and Banks Are Strong

Pauline Hofseth (Prudential Jack White/Vista Real Estate) — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 16:16:59 -0500

Happy Saint Paddy's Day, everyone. And I am happy to report that Alaska credit unions and banks are strong and healthy. There seems to be alot of doom and gloom in the national headlines, so I am very happy to report some good news. A few weeks ago, I wrote in my blog, What to Do if You Are On the Downside, that Alaska's economy is very healthy compared to the lower 48. The Anchorage Daily News seems to back me up on this in its recent article regarding Alaska banks and credit union health.

The ADN reported that many of Alaska's credit unions and banks grew in local profits last year and are not in need of TARP funds. Three Alaska banks which did accept TARP monies were Alaska Pacific Bancshares, Key Bank and Wells Fargo. However, the banks that received TARP funds did not take the funds because they were in trouble. The Anchorage Daily News reported that one of the reasons Alaska banks and credit unions fared well was because of their common sense approach to lending - no risky loans. Although, Alaska and the Municipality of Anchorage has its issues, I think the common sense approach to life mirrors that of Alaskans in general, which has lead to our being one of the best economies in the nation.

Pauline Hofseth, Anchorage Real Estate

Read the full article:
HEALTHY ENVIRONMENT: More conservative policies help avoid outside crush

What to Do if You Are On the Downside

Pauline Hofseth (Prudential Jack White/Vista Real Estate) — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 18:47:51 -0500

Anchorage has one of the best economies in the nation. The State of Alaska announced this week that the Alaskan job rate was up both in terms of new jobs and in the jobless rate. However, no matter how strong the economy may be in Anchorage, Alaska or the nation, if you find yourself on the downside of the economy, you need to take action.

Last week, the Obama administration unveiled the Homeowner Affordability and Stability Plan. The plan is two fold, offering both refinance and loan modification options. The purpose of the plan is to help homeowners prevent foreclosure. You do not have to be behind in payments in order to qualify. HUD's Hope For Homeowners program was also revised to give more options to homeowners.

If you see yourself on the downside of the economy, please contact your lender immediately. Here are links that may help you as an Anchorage homeowner:

Homeowner Affordability and Stability Plan: FinancialStability.gov (http://financialstability.gov)
HUD Hope For Homeowners: Basic Consumer Facts (http://www.hud.gov/hopeforhomeowners/consumerfactsheet.cfm)

Related Article:
Seek Help Fast (ADN)

Anchorage Economy Briefs

Pauline Hofseth (Prudential Jack White/Vista Real Estate) — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 15:38:40 -0600

Just a brief update on the Anchorage economy. Anchorage and Alaska are still in a better economic place than most of the lower 48, but no state will escape its repercussions altogether.

* The Alaska legislature is currently considering raising the minimum wage from $7.15 per hour to $8.75. There is also a bill under consideration that would keep Alaska's minimum wage at least a $1.00 more per hour than what is federally mandated.

* The budget shortfall for the State of Alaska is much more than what was reported two months ago. The estimate now stands at $1.65 billion. Lower gas and oil prices are the culprits for the increase in the estimated deficit. Governor Palin has put forward a proposal to tap into the state's savings account as well as implementing budget cuts.

* Acting Mayor Claman has begun his reductions in spending, which is estimated to save Anchorage $7.3 million. There is an estimated shortfall of $17 million in the city's budget.

* The Assembly has approved $100 million in bonds for Anchorage residents to vote on in the April ballot. The bonds would affect schools, infrastructure and public safety.

* As California, Nevada and Florida have learned, double-digit increases in value may be "heaven" for awhile. But, it does not take long for those inflationary prices to go south, bringing all kinds of problems along with it. Slow and stead wins the race.

Singing Valets In Anchorage

Pauline Hofseth (Prudential Jack White/Vista Real Estate) — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 13:38:24 -0600

Anchorage is unique in many varied ways but we have just added another unique service to our list - singing valets.

Providence Medical Center may be the only place in the country that can boast of having singing valets. The valets at Providence Medical Center are Siaki Tito, LeVant Logo and Sela Kakiva.. The group sings in three-part harmony. Sela is the leader singer and the one who started the valets singing. The valets serenade hospital outpatients when they enter and leave the medical center.

Of course, being able to sing is not a requirement for the valets. This is just a public service they provide for those who take advantage of the free valet service offered by the Providence Medical Center .

I think the singing valets are a fine example of how easy it is to make a difference in the world and bring joy to other people's lives. They are also an example of what makes Anchorage and Alaska such a unique and great place to live.

Super Bowl Eats - Hot Wings With A Twist

Pauline Hofseth (Prudential Jack White/Vista Real Estate) — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 16:29:16 -0600

Super Bowl Sunday is just around the corner. If you are planning a Super Bowl party, I thought I would share a great recipe for Hot Wings with a twist.

Just click play for the Chuncheon Hot Wings recipe.

I hope you enjoy these tasty wings as much as I do.

Pauline

CHS Band Marches In Inaugural Parade

Pauline Hofseth (Prudential Jack White/Vista Real Estate) — Tue, 20 Jan 2009 18:53:53 -0600

The Colony High School Band became a part of history today when they marched down Pennsylvania Avenue in the Inaugural Parade.

The students were able to become a part of history through hard work, perseverance and and the great negotiating skills of the band's director, Jamin Burton. The band raised the $67,000 needed for the trip without the help of public funds.

The Colony High School Band, which is only five years old, also marched in the 2006 Independence Day Parade in Washington D.C. The CHS Marching Band has been featured on the Marching.comwebsite. The Colony High School Band is the only marching band in Alaska . Colony High School is located in Wasilla Alaska

You can read what the kids are posting to their Inaugural trip blog which is being featured in the Anchorage Daily News.

Pauline

Travel North - To Alaska

Pauline Hofseth (Prudential Jack White/Vista Real Estate) — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 14:46:31 -0600

You may be able to experience a vacation of a lifetime by taking advantage of discounted cruises, lodging and tours.

Alaska is beautiful and most visitors consider this vacation trip, the trip of a lifetime. It is the vacation that they always remember and talk about to others. There is good reason for this. There is no other place on earth as captivating as Alaska .

The city of Anchorage offers so much to see and do. Anchorage makes a perfect "home-base" to experience the wonders of our state.

Cruise lines, travel tours, lodges, and hotels are offering specials discounts and "stimulus" vacation packages to travelers this season. So, be sure to check them out.

Travel north this year. Come to Alaska and make Anchorage your first stop. I can promise you will not be disappointed.

Pauline

Information on traveling North to Alaska:

Anchorage Convention and Visitors Bureau

Anchorage Travel Guide - Free

Alaska Division of Tourism

Alaska Vacation Planner - Free

Alaska Tourism and Travel Guide

Happy 50, Alaska

Pauline Hofseth (Prudential Jack White/Vista Real Estate) — Tue, 06 Jan 2009 18:37:18 -0600

On January 3rd, Alaska celebrated its 50th year as a state in the Union.

Friday and Saturday saw many celebrations throughout the state in Anchorage , Fairbanks , Juneau , Kodiak, Nome , Unalaska and Valdez.

Anchorage sponsored a celebration which included a fireworks display following a cauldron lighting and a full day of musical entertainment. U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski, Governor Sarah Palin and outgoing Mayor Mark Begich all addressed the crowds that gathered to participate.

The Anchorage Daily News has posted several interesting articles as a "Countdown to Statehood" feature. This week's article talks about the 50 years of change Alaska has experienced as a state and the many benefits Alaskans have received. The article discusses how different life might be if Alaska never became a state.

I found the article quite interesting and in some ways enlightening so I will share it with you here.

Here is to the next 50 years!

Pauline

Related Links in the Anchorage Daily News:

Alaska Statehood Celebration Video

1958 - Alaskans Remember

Photo Gallery - Photos submitted by Alaskans

Anchorage Says Bye-Bye to Snowzilla

Pauline Hofseth (Prudential Jack White/Vista Real Estate) — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 13:48:52 -0600

Snowzilla was quite an attraction in Anchorage with people waiting in line to get a picture with the colossus snowman. Unfortunately, Snowzilla is no longer with us and Anchorage must say bye-bye to our unofficial attraction.

In 2005, Mr. Billy Powers did what many people like to do when the snow falls, he built a snowman. The large snowman did what many snowmen do when it warms up after a snowfall, he began to melt.

Mr. Powers rebuilt his snowman which grew and grew and grew! The project soon became a family project and then the neighborhood began to help, too. The result was an enormous 16' snowman that somehow got dubbed "Snowzilla". The giant snowman's traditional corn cob pipe was made from manila evelopes. Glass bottles made the buttons and a collapsible hamper made the perfect top hat.

Snowzilla reminds me of the "build it and they will come" statement in the movie, "Field of Dreams". Billy Powers built the snowman for his own pleasure, but "they" came from all over Anchorage and the world (Snowzilla drew attention of the international media) to see the giant snowman.

Unfortunately, there is always a sad ending to snowmen. The sun always melts them away. In Snowzilla's case, it was the City of Anchorage that was his demise. After three years of bringing fun and joy to his visitors, it seems Snowzilla violated some code in the Municipality of Anchorage , so he was bulldozed down.

You may not be able to see Snowzilla any longer, but you can still see many beautifully decorated homes in Anchorage . Use this Holiday Lights interactive map to map out a tour. A tour of the homes are decorated for your enjoyment and can be a really fun-filled evening for a Christmas Eve or Christmas Night activity. Turn your radio to your favorite stations, grab your iPod or pop in a Christmas CD in the CD player in your car. Take along a thermos of hot chocolate and enjoy!

Have a very Merry Christmas everyone!

Pauline

Eagle River Town Center

Pauline Hofseth (Prudential Jack White/Vista Real Estate) — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 02:02:04 -0600

The new Eagle River Town Center has broken ground and construction has begun. The new town center will include a library, shops and city offices.

The Town Center has been designed to revitalize the area and bring city services to one location. The project is anticipated to bring new revitalized growth and economic strength to Eagle River.

The Eagle River Parks and Recreation service area contributed one million dollars to the project. Another million dollars for the project was granted by the Rasmuson Foundation. The State of Alaska 's legislature granted $1.9 million in funds. The citizens of Anchorage voted for a bond measure that will add another $500,000 in funds for the cost of the project. The total cost is expected to be $6.7 million at the time of completion.

The Eagle River Town Center will be a 43,000 square foot mall that will accommodate a police substation, emergency operations center, Eagle River Parks and Recreation, community meeting rooms and an expanded library. Other municipal services will also be housed there.

The Eagle River Town Center will also have a new 40,000 square foot health club. The building for the health club is currently owned by the Alaska Club, currently being renovated.

The Eagle River Town Center has been a community priority for many years. The community has worked hard to make this dream a reality. The City of Anchorage and the residents of Eagle River are happy that dreams do come true.

Anchorage Guns 'n Hoses

Pauline Hofseth (Prudential Jack White/Vista Real Estate) — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 18:40:05 -0600

The Anchorage Fire and Police departments will be competing once again in their annual hockey competition game, Guns 'n Hoses.

The Guns 'n Hoses event is held each year as a charity event for local charities. This year proceeds will be donated to the American Diabetes Association. Last year's event raised about $31,000.

The "Guns" hockey team, of course, represents the Anchorage Police Department while the Hoses hockey team represents the Anchorage Fire Department. The game will be played at the Sullivan Arena on Sunday, December 13. It should be an exciting game, as the Guns try to even up the "score" and the Hoses fight to maintain the their lead in the most games won. The Hoses have won 6 of the 8 games played over the past years.

Those attending the game will also be entertained with various demonstrations by both the Anchorage Firefighters and the Anchorage Police, including a demonstration by the K-9 and SWAT units. Sparky (Fire Department mascot) and Buddy Bear (Police department mascot) will be on hand to give out special goodies to all the children. Those attending should also remember to bring their ice skates as they will be given the chance to skate with the players on both teams after the game.

You may purchase Tickets for the Anchorage Guns 'n Hoses Hockey game at any police or fire station or from the Anchorage American Diabetes Association. Tickets are only $7 per person or you may purchase a family pass (6 people) for only $25