Photo: Matanuska Glacier (pronounced: mata-NEW-ska) is easily accessible on the road system.
So, I’m waiting in a slow-moving line when the person next to me strikes up a conversation. In a minute or two, I learn they are new here. Which prompts me to ask: “so what brought you to Alaska?” The answer: “Oh, the military! Spent four years at Elmendorf and told myself, when I get out, I’m coming back here to live!” I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard people say things like that over the years!
Many people are captivated by life in Alaska. Perhaps you or someone you know is contemplating the move. If so, here’s some strategic advice from those who have made the move to Alaska: don’t go it alone without a knowledgeable real estate agent on your side.
Alaska: A World of Difference
For starters, Alaska can be a bit of a culture shock. The mistake a lot of people make is to arrive in our state having done little research or planning. It’s always a good idea to be working with a local real estate agent to learn about the state of the market, housing prices and the places where you might want to live, BEFORE making the move, so you’ll know what to prepare for. The right timing can make all the difference in the world, and make the move a bit less stressful.
You see, an agent is so much more than someone who helps you buy a house. At “My Favorite Realty”, we grew up here and live here now. If you don't already know someone in Alaska, your realtor can be that person. We can give you a sense about the cost of living, the weather, the economy, utilities, and other practical information that will be useful in making the best choices for you.
Living in the Land of the Midnight Sun
The two most surprising things that take some getting used to are summer’s round-the-clock daylight followed by long, dark winters. By December’s solstice, the sun hangs low on the horizon with shorter daylight hours between 10am-3pm. At the peak of winter, it's pitch by 5pm. It's cold, too with daytime temperatures frequently in the teens and sometimes below zero.
The flip side of that is the nearly 22 hours of broad daylight at the peak of summer. By 6am, the rising sun is streaming through your bedroom window. It sets after 11PM…with enough lingering light to fish by at one o’clock in the morning. Over the years, Alaska has experienced warmer summers with temps in the 70's occasionally inching up into the low 80's. Still, those who live here will tell you; Summer or winter, the quality of life in Alaska can’t be beat!
When you’re ready to make the move, “My Favorite Realty” in Palmer is ready to be one of your best resources. We're Veteran-owned and all about keeping real estate simple. Broker Scott Blair knows the Mat-Su Valley region of Alaska well. It’s small communities of Wasilla & Palmer are only 35-40 miles north of Anchorage, but are as different as night and day as far as housing goes. Regardless of whether you like city life, the suburbs or a place in the country with more room to spread out, there are lots of options available. But remember, planning ahead is the only way to go when moving to Alaska!
Give Scott a call at (907) 746-HOME (4663).
