Fairbanks Homes and Real Estate October-November 2019

OCTOBER–NOVEMBER 2019

yourfairbankshome.com

What are the differences

BETWEEN REAL ESTATE AGENTS AND BROKERS? This design trend

IS COMING BACK

5 factors to consider

WHEN BUYING A HOME

See page 2 for more photos and purchasing information for this beautiful Fairbanks home.

on the cover

3220 Craft Road in Fairbanks, Alaska 4 bedrooms • 3.5 baths • 3 car garage

This home is absolutely stunning!

Entertainers delight!!! Lovely mountain and city view. Landscaping is to die for. 20 ft. pillars and a concrete patio welcomes you to the front door. You walk into a beautiful tiled foyer with a grand staircase. Second level boasts with an amazing kitchen with double ovens, custom cabinets with soft closures, stainless appliances, pantry, custom concrete counter tops and concrete window sills. Dining area has hardwood floors with an amazing view from each window, beautiful family and living room. Each bedroom has a walk-in closet. The Master is large and is well laid out. Master bath has large tiled shower with dual shower head, double vanity, custom cabinetry, corner jetted tub nestled in the window dormer so you can capture the views. 4 beds 3.5 baths, 2 laundry rooms, 3 car garage, theater room with projector and screen. This room could be a mother-in-law apt. All ceilings are 10 ft. Custom crown molding and 6 inch trim throughout, all doors are solid wood. Concrete wrap around deck with custom Portugal pizza oven. The landscaping is one of a kind. Sit out and enjoy the oasis around you, the custom rock water fall, lawn, raised beds, trees & scrubs, custom trex stairway with handrails have lights, hot tub and one of kind rock Portugal pizza oven. Great for entertaining! This home has lots of storage, including a 1100 sq. foot 3 car garage, 2x8 construction, burderus boiler. Plenty of parking for all your friends and family. It even has a pad to park your boat and motor home. This home has it all!!!

GRACE MINDER Grace Minder Realty, Inc. 378-8934

www.graceminder.com graceminder@yahoo.com

Hundreds of Listings Open Houses • Loan Calculators Industry Information • Featured REALTORS® yourfairbankshome.com 2 homes.newsminer.com

contents

October–November 2019

Products

Featured

8 AKTickets.com

Services

13

Crowley Fuels Alaska

6

Florcraft Carpet One

7

Golden Valley Electric Association

8

Mongold Insurance Agency

10

7

Nessbuilt Remodelers

14

Residential Mortgage

15

Sourdough Transfer

Mt. McKinley Bank

Real Estate

19

9

15

5

17

Grace Minder Realty, Inc.

22

Office Space for Lease

24

RE/MAX Associates of Fairbanks; Ray Brasier

4

RE/MAX Associates of Fairbanks; Gene Duval

23

Agent Directory Crown Real Estate Inc.; Ginger Orem Fairbanks Home Source Fortune Properties; Janet Shafer

Somers & Associates; Lana Hebert

4 6 8 10 12 13 15 16 17 18 19 20 23

What are the differences between real estate agents and brokers?

This design trend is coming back Things to consider before warming up to your first fire this winter 3 factors to consider when choosing a mortgage lender A tasty take on turkey just in time for Thanksgiving Cranberry-infused cocktail for autumn entertaining 5 factors to consider when buying a home How to prepare your family when an aging loved one is moving in Home inspections 101 Kids’ Corner

Agent directory

Short sale vs foreclosure Protect pets in case of fire

To advertise, call Laurence Oakes at (907) 459-7531 • Cell 907-450-9559 loakes@newsminer.com yourfairbankshome.com

yourfairbankshome.com

Homes is published and distributed free by the Fairbanks Daily News-Miner Advertising Department

homes.newsminer.com 3

What are

the differences between real estate agents and brokers?

Real estate transactions often involve significant amounts of money. As a result, it’s common for both buyers and sellers to enlist the services of a host of professionals with real estate experience.

Land for Sale

Associate Broker

452-4363

gene@geneduval.com www.geneduval.com Associates of Fairbanks

343 WELL STREET

$605,000

Price ed e R duc

Quality home, custom-built by Tilly Construction, 2785 sf of living area, 3 bedroom, 4 bath, large 2 car garage, over half an acre in town.

• Greer S/D., by Nordale Rd and Peede, 4 lots left from $14,500.

• Beaver Pond S/D., 19 mile CHSR, PRICE REDUCED 4 lots left from $17,500.

• Chena Ridge View 4 lots with a view, from $95,000.

• Roland Acres S/D., by Chena Pump and Roland, 10 lots from $24,000.

• Anders S/D., 22.5 mile CHSR, 8 lots each $28,000.

• Polkadot Drive, near Goldmine Trail, 16 lots from $12,000.

• Ridgepoint Drive on Chena Ridge, 2 lots from $95,000.

• Clarkson Drive, by Chena Pump, 2 lots $30,000 each.

• Illinois St., by Denali Bank, .49 acres, $50,000. Price Reduced • City Lights Blvd, by Birch Hill, 4 lots from $96,000.

• Sky Summit S/D., by Summit Dr., 2 lots, $99,500 each.

• Deere St., near Aurora Dr., 1.7 acres, $118,500.

• Chena Pump & Nebula, 2.28 acres, $175,000. Price Reduced • Samson’s Hardware, Phillips Field Rd., $955,000

Visit our website to tour our wonderful homes!

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Gene DuVal

REAL ESTATE AGENT

According to Realtor.com, real estate agents are professionally licensed individuals who can help both buyers and sellers. Agents also may help property owners rent their homes. The amount of training real estate agents need to earn their licenses varies by state. Once individuals finish their required training, they must take a written exam that tests their knowledge of federal real estate laws and general principles as well as the laws specific to the state in which they want to become licensed. Only after passing this exam do individuals become recognized real

estate agents. Investopedia notes that achieving agent status is the starting point for most real estate professionals.

REAL ESTATE BROKER

Real estate brokers are those professionals who have continued their education past the agent level and obtained a broker’s license. Each state has its own requirements in regard to becoming a licensed broker, but education and examinations are necessary regardless of where a person lives.

Realtor.com notes that the extra coursework to earn a broker’s license focuses on various topics, including ethics, contracts, taxes, and insurance.

Agents may learn about these topics as well, but coursework for prospective brokers goes into more depth than it does at the agent level.

Brokers also will study and learn

about legal issues in regard to real estate.

The legal issues brokers may learn about include brokerage operations, real estate investments, construction, and property management. Requirements vary, but Realtor.com notes that brokers often must work as licensed real estate agents for no less than three years before they can earn their broker’s license.

There is more than one type of real estate broker. Principal/designated brokers oversee all agents at a given firm and ensure the agents act in compliance with all real estate laws. Managing brokers tend to focus on the hiring and training of agents. Associate brokers have their broker’s license but work directly under a managing broker.

Real estate agents and brokers can help buyers, sellers and investors successfully navigate real estate transactions, and each can serve their clients in different ways.

504 EAGLE RIDGE RD.

LAND LISTINGS:

4 BD/3.5 BA $354,900 Gorgeous 4 bedroom home with 2 master suites. Open living room with high cathedral ceilings. Opens to a stunning kitchen with solid wood cabinets and all new appliances.

Upper level has very private master with full bath and walk out deck. Main level has living room, dining room, kitchen, half 501 CRAIG AVE. bath, and laundry. Lower level has 2 bedrooms plus another master suite with walk-in closet and full bath. Family room.

3 BD 2 bath.$238,500 New pellet stove with brand new bath off family room with Newly remodeled. fantastic walk-in shower. Access to the back lawn. Fantastic location. Nice hillside lot and great neighborhood.

2 car garage. Corner lot.

1050 KELLUM

CHATANIKA LODGE – $775,000

Own a piece of History. Eleven rooms, guest lounge, restaurant and cocktail lounge. Owners unit plus 2 rentals and 2080 Sq. ft grg. Gorgeous setting on over 11 acres. Northern Lights Viewing in the winter. Activities all through the summer.

Offered at $775,000. Owner Terms.

$240,000

Immaculate 3bd 2 bath.

Gorgeous corner lot.

2 car garage

PROPERTIES

Fortune@polarnet.com

2 LOTS OFF STILL VALLEY ROAD Lakloey Water. 30,000 sq ft. $18,000 each 3 LOTS ON REFINERY LOOP On North Pole City Water and Sewer.

Priced between $12,000-$17,000 each KEEP DRIVE OFF FARMERS LOOP 40,007 sq. ft lots, Great location. $20,000 CORNER OF REPP AND BADGER 1.84 acres. Great exposure for coffee or food stand, or small business. GU-1 zoned. Cleared. water. electric on site. 700 ft frontage on Badger Rd. Plus slough frontage. Asking $38,000

Janet Shafer Owner/Broker

388-1400

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Both buyers and sellers may work with real estate agents and/or real estate brokers en route to buying or selling their homes. Agents and brokers are not one and the same, and there are some important distinctions between the two.

homes.newsminer.com 5

This design trend is coming back

DESIGN SERVICES

VINYL

CERAMIC

LAMINATE

HARDWOOD

CABINETS

CARPET

AREA RUGS

WINDOW COVERINGS

Evan Hall, Patrice Case & Aaron Lautaret 6 homes.newsminer.com

www.florcraftcarpetone.com

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907.452.1423 || 1991 Fox Ave. Off Phillips Field Road

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4 51-0632

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Remodeling Alaska since 1977 We’ll be here next year!

Design trends come and go, but some have a funny way of resurfacing years after they first became popular. Homeowners who may have been considering renovating their home to remove a design element they believe to be passé might want to see if that feature has experienced a resurgence in popularity. In fact, one of the more derided home decor trends of yesteryear has slowly crept back into style, albeit in moderation.

W

ood paneling is back and better than ever, advise many design professionals. It’s the formerly ugly duckling that filled homes starting in the 1950s, creating drab dens and fauxwood family rooms.

them more eco-friendly and stylish than ever before.

Designers have flocked to reclaimed wood and veneer panelings to incorporate them into design elements. And while wood paneling used to be hung Paneling had long been an element of vertically, designers now experiment choice because it is relatively easy to in- with hanging paneling. stall and can camouflage problem walls in a home, like those covered in boisterMany people no longer use paneling to cover an entire space. Paneling is used ous wallpaper prints. sparingly as an accent wall or another feature for character. Wood walls can Wood paneling reach the peak of its popularity in the 1970s, and since then be stained in a rich mahogany to look upscale or be weathered and rustic. homeowners have been tearing down these faux offenders for years or maskHomeowners ready to re-embrace ing them in paint to brighten up spaces. wood paneling can choose to enhance However, the experts at Apartment one wall in a room. Think about the Therapy report that wood paneling in shades of brown are making a comeback space above a fireplace or a strip of wall behind a sitting chair and side table. in cozy spots such as dens or studPaneling also can serve as a headboard ies. The warm tones of wood paneling elicit a retro vibe. But unlike their fake behind a bed in a master suite. Painted predecessors, today’s paneled walls are horizonally, paneling can add dimension and texture to walls, even in a bathroom. being outfitted in real wood, making

Wood paneling is slowly making a comeback, proving that no design trend every truly goes away.

homes.newsminer.com 7

Things to consider

before warming up to your first fire this winter

Home is where the heart is.

Not to mention all your stuff.

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202812

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230 OLD STEESE HWY FAIRBANKS davidmongold@allstate.com

To learn more about this great opportunity or to schedule a demo, please contact: Mylissa Maclin 907-459-7502 or email mmaclin@AKTickets.com

B

efore fireplace season hits full swing, homeowners might want to brush up on a few fireplace facts so they can safely enjoy nights spent sitting by the crackling flames.

Crown Real Estate AK, Inc.

2016 Affiliates Realtor of the Year When You Need Real Estate Advice Call:

Ginger Orem, Broker/Owner CRS, ABR

www.AskForGinger.com • (907) 452-8000

interior and accessible portions of the appliance and the chimney connection The CSIA recommends that homeowners who plan to use their chimneys as they have in the past request a Level 1 inspection, which will examine the soundness of the chimney structure and flue as well as the basic appliance installation and connections.

Technicians also will verify if the chimney is free of obstruction and combustible deposits.

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A warm fire can make even the coldest winter day more enjoyable. Fireplaces may not get much use in spring or summer, but come late fall and throughout the winter, the fireplace can be a great place for families to gather.

resource This Old House recommends using dense wood that’s been split and stored in a high and dry place for at least six months.

Oak is an example of dense wood that, when stored properly, can make for an enjoyable fireplace experience. Avoid softwoods like pine. Pine can produce a lot of creosote, which is a byproduct of wood combustion. Creosote is highly flammable, and as it builds up in a chimney, the risk for a chimney fire increases. Choosing the right wood, making sure it’s well-seasoned and Homeowners also should inspect having a chimney professionally cleaned their chimney dampers before lighting can reduce the risk of a creosote-related their first fires of the season. Dampers should open and close smoothly. If not, a chimney fire. A Level 1 inspection service technician can help fix or replace should determine if there are potentially dangerous levels of creosote deposits in the damper. the chimney.

Firewood is another thing homeowners must consider before lighting their Before nestling up to a fireplace this winter, homeowners should consider a A full inspection of the chimney might first fires of the season. The CSIA says host of factors and safety measures to that well-seasoned firewood works be in order as well. Chimney service best, noting that wood that is not wellensure their fireplaces are safe and ready technicians will conduct thorough seasoned will produce more smoke than for the season ahead. examinations of readily accessible portions of the chimney exterior and heat. In addition, the home improvement The Chimney Safety Institute of America advises homeowners with fireplaces to hire a CSIA-certified chimney sweep to clean their fireplaces.

After a lengthly period of non-use, various issues could be affecting the chimney, many of which might not be noticeable to an untrained eye.

Professional, certified chimney sweeps have extensive knowledge of fireplaces, making them valuable resources who can let homeowners know if any safety issues developed since fireplaces were last used. The National Protection Agency recommends that chimneys be swept at least once per year.

homes.newsminer.com 9

3 factors

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to consider when choosing a mortgage lender

10 homes.newsminer.com

A home is the most significant purchase many people will ever make.

Perhaps because of that, many buyers, particularly those purchasing a home for the first time, are understandably nervous about the homebuying process. The decision regarding which home to buy warrants ample consideration, but so, too, does the buyers’ choice of lender.

Mortgage lenders can be found all over the internet, and the sheer volume of lender options can make it hard for home buyers to find the right fit for them. Couple that with lending-related terminology that many first-time buyers may be unfamiliar with, and it’s easy to see why prospective homeowners can feel overwhelmed about the process of borrowing money to buy their homes.

When looking for a mortgage lender, prospective homeowners should never forget that the choice of lender is, in most cases, entirely theirs to make.

When making that decision, a host of variables should be considered. The following are three such factors that, upon ample consideration, may help buyers rest easy knowing they did their due diligence when looking for lenders.

Did you know?

1. REPUTATION/ RECOMMENDATION

and costs of various lenders before making a final decision. Some lenders may charge considerably more in fees than others, so buyers should put in the effort necessary to comparison shop.

Just like other businesses, lenders have reputations, and oftentimes those reputations can be determined via some 3. PERSONAL INTERACTION simple online research. Peruse online Buyers, especially those who have reviews to determine what past buyers felt about a given lender. If possible, ask never before purchased a home, will likely have lots of questions. This friends, family or colleagues who they is where personal interaction with a worked with to secure a mortgage. prospective lender should be noted.

2. FEES Securing financing for a home purchase Fees vary from lender to lender. Fees can sometimes seem like an impersonal should not be mistaken for interest rates, process, but it doesn’t have to be, and which change daily and are typically many lenders are happy to answer dictated by the financial industry and buyers’ questions. Lenders who answer prospective buyers’ credit history and questions quickly and clearly can make financial standing. When speaking with buyers more comfortable about the potential lenders, ask for a rundown of home buying process. Buyers may want their fees, and the services those fees to avoid lenders who seem evasive or include, and closing cost estimates in unwilling to answer questions in writing. writing, then compare and contrast fees

A

real estate attorney is an important professional to have in one’s corner when buying or selling a home. The legal resource Find Law says that buying and selling a home can be one of the most significant purchases made in a person’s lifes.

Real estate law can be complicated, and all parties involved need to ensure they are protected as they complete transactions and negotiations. That is why it is essential to have a real estate attorney in one’s corner. A lawyer trained in real estate law will review contracts and other documents like title transfers and deeds. The attorney also handles the closing. Throughout the process, attorneys will provide legal guidance and explain terminology related to the transaction. In case of a dispute, the attorney will also provide legal representation in the courtroom, if needed, or negotiate a resolution on a client’s behalf. Even though a real estate attorney is another expense in the process of purchasing real estate, it is a worthwhile investment for the protection and peace of mind attorneys provide. homes.newsminer.com 11

A tasty take

on turkey just in time for Thanksgiving Perhaps no day is more synonymous with a certain dish than Thanksgiving is with turkey. As tasty as turkey can be, this flavorful fowl doesn’t find its way onto many families’ dinner tables unless it’s Thanksgiving day.

Secret family turkey recipes may reign supreme in some households, but holiday hosts with no such resources can consider this unique recipe for “Holiday Turkey” from Andrew Schloss’ “Cooking Slow” (Chronicle Books). By slow cooking the turkey, cooks can ensure it’s evenly cooked.

Holiday Turkey Makes 15 servings

Remove the giblets from the turkey and discard (or save for another use).

Rinse the turkey inside and out and pat dry with paper towels. Rub it all over with salt and pepper. Refrigerate, uncovered, for at least 12 hours and up to 24 hours. During that time, the surface of the turkey will become visibly dry and the skin will tighten; this encourages a nice crisp skin on the finished bird.

Remove the turkey from the refrigerator 1 hour before you plan to start roasting. Preheat the oven to 450 F. Put the turkey on a rack set in a large, flameproof roasting pan. Drizzle the oil over the top.

Roast for 1 hour. Reduce the oven 12 homes.newsminer.com

1 1 1 2

fresh turkey, about 15 pounds, preferably free-range tablespoon olive oil quart apple cider teaspoons dried poultry seasoning Coarse sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

temperature to 175 F. Pour the cider into the roasting pan and sprinkle the poultry seasoning in the liquid. Continue roasting until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of a thigh (but not touching bone) registers to 170 F. Transfer the turkey to a carving board, tent loosely with aluminum foil, and let rest for about 15 minutes (see tip). Meanwhile, skim the fat from the surface of the liquid in the pan. Put the roasting pan over two burners and bring the pan drippings to a boil over high heat. Cook until the juices reduce and thicken slightly, enough to coat a spoon, about 10 minutes. Taste for seasoning.

Carve the turkey and serve with cider pan juices.

Resting tip: Slow-roasted meats need far less resting time (pretty much none) than those that are traditionally roasted.

The reason for resting meat that has been roasted at a high temperature is to allow juices that have collected in the cooler center time to migrate back into the dryer (hotter) exterior sections after it comes out of the oven. Because slow-roasted meats are cooked evenly and a temperature that keeps most of the juices in place, a resting period is largely unnecessary. A brief resting time does allow the meat to become a little firmer as it cools, making it easier to carve.

Cranberryinfused

CROWLEY FUELS

SIMPLE SAVINGS Fairbanks’ Best Heating Fuel & Propane Bundle

cocktail for autumn entertaining Besides the ubiquitous “pumpkin spice,” nothing says “autumn” more than tart cranberries. Cranberries are a major component of Thanksgiving feasts, turning up alongside and atop turkey as well as in quick breads and desserts.

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Sweet Potato Quiche Makes 8 servings

Cranberry Margarita

2 3⁄4 21⁄2 1⁄2

11⁄2 1 1⁄4 1⁄2 10

Egg mixture: 4 eggs 1 cup heavy cream 1⁄2 teaspoon fresh rosemary, minced 1⁄2 tablespoon fresh parsley, minced 11⁄2 teaspoons salt 1⁄4 teaspoon pepper

Serves 1

shots of tequila shot of cranberry juice cocktail cup of whole berry cranberry sauce shot of triple sec ice cubes Sweetened dried cranberries, for garnish Lime, for garnish

Combine all ingredients except garnish in a blender.

Blend on high until smooth and frosty. Serve in a margarita glass. Garnish with dried cranberries and a lime wheel.

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Cranberries are loaded with health benefits, which include reducing the risk for ulcers and preventing gum disease.

Also, just eight ounces of cranberry juice cocktail contains 137 percent of the daily recommended value of vitamin C. Cranberries can even be used to craft great cocktails. Move over mulled ciders, this crisp “Cranberry Margarita” from The Cape Cod Cranberry Growers’ Association makes a great autumn-inspired beverage.

One provider. Get

3

cups sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into small cubes cup yellow onion, diced tablespoons olive oil teaspoon salt Black pepper to taste

ounces Gruyere cheese, shredded Pre-baked deep dish pie crust

Preheat oven to 400 F. Mix together the first five ingredients and place on baking sheet. Roast in the oven for 15 to 20 minutes.

While sweet potatoes and onions are roasting, shred cheese and set aside. Whisk the egg mixture and set aside.

Once potatoes and onions have finished roasting, spoon them into the pre-baked pie shell. Next, layer the shredded cheese on top of the sweet potatoes.

Reduce oven to 375 F. Pour egg mixture over the cheese and potatoes. Place quiche in the oven on a center rack. Bake 20 to 25 minutes, or until eggs are set. homes.newsminer.com 13

5 factors

to consider when buying a home Home ownership is a dream for many people.

In fact, buying a home is considered by many people to be a major life accomplishment.

Does the home you want to buy have a kitchen that looks similar to this?

Seventy-five percent of Alaska’s homes were built between 1970 and 1990, putting them way past their functional and cosmetic life. If your dream home doesn’t quite fit your style and personality, a purchase or refinance renovation loan could help fix that.

THREE CONVENIENT LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU 324 Old Steese Hwy., Fairbanks, AK 99701 Inside Northrim Bank, 360 Merhar Ave., Fairbanks, AK 99701 Inside Somers & Associates, 711 Gaffney Rd., Ste. 201, Fairbanks, AK 99701 14 homes.newsminer.com

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Contact one of our expert mortgage loan originators at (907) 452-8800 to find out how this loan may benefit you.

MOVING for over 100 year

s

Megan Quan

Melody K. Macchione

Realtor®; SRS, CMRS

Broker/Realtor®; Property Manager; SRS, VAMRES

Katie Champagne Office Manager/ Realtor®

About Us —

Property Management Coordinator/ Realtor®

We are experienced Real Estate Professionals specializing in Residential Sales and Property Management in the Fairbanks area market. If you are looking to purchase a home or property, choose us to represent you and we will work to find you exactly your dream home. If you are looking to sell your home or property, we’ll help you market and sell your home fast and at a price you’ll be happy with. Get the most out of your real estate deal with us by your side.

FREE consultation!

(907) 374-4445

815 2nd Ave, Suite 201 • Fairbanks, AK 99701 F544221-1

Visit www.SourdoughTransfer.com or call 907.456.6040 or 800.478.3976 in Fairbanks

Daedre Gibbens

2: JOB SECURITY/ AVAILABILITY

OFFICE HOURS – BY APPOINTMENT ONLY FairbanksHomeSource.net

Various factors determine what makes a home an attractive place to live. While some considerations may overlap, others may be unique to individual buyers.

The financial resource Fortune Builder Those new to the real estate arena may says to consider your job security before want to consider the following factors as taking the home ownership plunge. they search for a new place to call home. Before committing to an investment as substantial as a home, ensure that you are secure in your job. Similarly, if you are relocating for job prospects, verify Property taxes can greatly affect the that the new location has a thriving job overall cost of living in a particular market. home. The real estate company RedFin says property taxes are generally levied by each county and often include taxes paid to schools, utility companies and For potential homeowners with municipal governments. Property taxes children or those planning on becoming will usually be factored into a monthly parents, area schools should merit mortgage payment, and how high (or significant consideration. Research low) taxes are can turn an affordable school rankings and reviews, but know mortgage payment into something that that rankings can change. American can break a budget. When calculating Family Insurance Company says to payments, be sure to include property also look at the school budget history taxes in your estimates. of towns you’re considering to see if residents prioritize funding for

1: PROPERTY TAXES

3: LOCAL SCHOOLS

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Alaskans

education. This can be a measure of how important education is in a given community.

4: COMMUTE TIMES

Home ownership involves both lifestyle and financial decisions.

Calculate the time it will take to travel to and from work when considering a certain town or neighborhood. Find out if there is mass transit and what options are available for off-hour travel needs.

5: LIFESTYLE OPTIONS

Quality nightlife, arts and history, community events, proximity to cultural centers or cities, and other factors are at play in choosing a home. Make sure your new community allows you to still enjoy the things you’re passionate about.

Buying a home involves considering various factors that can affect your budget and quality of life.

homes.newsminer.com 15

How to

prepare your family when an aging loved one is moving in No man or woman, regardless of his or her age, wants to consider that a day may come when they need to rely on loved ones to help them perform everyday activities. But every day tens of millions of people serve as unpaid caregivers for their aging friends or family members.

A

friend or family member into their homes.

2015 survey from the National Alliance for Caregiving and AARP found that approximately 34.2 million people had provided unpaid care to an adult age 50 or older in the last 12 months. Many unpaid caregivers are pulling double duty, caring for their aging parents while also raising families of their own.

• Speak with your loved one’s physicians. Speak with an

While there’s no guarantee that aging men and women will require care, caregivers figure to become more necessary as life expectancies increase.

In fact, recent years have seen the senior population in the United States exceed 50 million for the first time in the country’s history, and figures from the U.S. Census Bureau suggest that figure will continue to rise until 2029.

• Discuss forthcoming changes as a family. Once you

Men and women who are preparing to welcome an aging loved one into their homes may wonder how to make that transition go smoothly, especially if they have young children at home. The following are some tips that can help families prepare to welcome an aging 16 homes.newsminer.com

aging loved one’s physicians so you can get a complete picture of their physical and mental condition. This can give you an accurate depiction of how much care your loved one needs now and how much they might need in the future if their condition worsens.

gain a full understanding of your loved one’s physical and mental condition and before this person moves into your home, discuss it with your family. Adding a new member to your household will affect everyone, so each member of the family, including young children, should be included when discussing how the family dynamic will change. Parents must recognize that even young children may be asked to make sacrifices to accommodate aging

loved ones. Explain these sacrifices in advance and how important it is to make an aging loved one feel welcome when they move in.

• Discuss conditions with children. Children may recognize

their grandparents or elderly loved ones have physical limitations, but they likely won’t understand conditions such as dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. Parents can ask a physician about how to explain cognitive decline to young children. Children may not recognize cognitive decline as readily as adults, so parents may need to discuss these conditions with their children periodically and/or if the conditions worsen.

Millions of people across the globe welcome aging loved ones into their homes when they can no longer care for themselves. Such caregiving changes family dynamics, and these changes should be discussed before and after a loved one moves in.

Home

inspections 101

FOR RESULTS CALL GRACE Grace Minder - BROKER

Your Hometown Realtor GRACE MINDER REALTY, INC.

(907) 378-8934 graceminder@yahoo.com www.graceminder.com

SOL

D 2660 Waugstro • $295,000

3 beds 2.5 baths 1 car garage, 5* energy efficient.

Only 9 years young

1540 Chena Ridge • $690,000 Custom home with a one of a kind view

PEN

The process of buying a home can be unlike any experience prospective buyers have ever had. After finding a home they like and coming to an agreement on a sale price with the seller, buyers can expect to add many items to their to-do list. One of the first things to jot down on that list is scheduling a home inspection.

DIN

G

1421 Ithaca Road • $319,000

This Beautiful log home is nestled in trees for a private setting.

2 beds 2 baths 2 car garage on 2 acres

3265 Hillary Ave • $529,000 Beautiful home with Mother-in Law apt.

2029 & 2037 Marble Court • $475,000

3 bedroom home with 5 bay shop on 2 acres. Please call today to set up appointment and get details.

Seller is motivated.

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Home inspections are a vital part of the home buying process. Such inspections can protect buyers as they’re on the cusp of making what will likely be the most significant investment of their lives. Understanding the home inspection process can help buyers during an exciting yet potentially nervewracking time in their lives.

WHAT IS A HOME INSPECTION?

The American Society of Home Inspectors defines a home inspection as an objective visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a house. Inspectors will conduct visual examinations from the roof to the foundation of the home. Additional structures on the property, such as sheds or detached outdoor living areas, are not typically included in the examination.

WHAT DO INSPECTORS EXAMINE?

The ASHI notes that inspectors will examine the condition of various parts of the home. The heating system, central air conditioning unit, interior plumbing and electrical systems, roof (though inspectors will not climb onto the roof), attic and insulation will be examined.

Inspectors also will examine walls, ceilings, floors, windows, doors, the foundation of the home, basement (or crawl space), and structural components.

CAN A HOME FAIL INSPECTION?

Homes cannot fail home inspections, which are just assessments of a home’s existing condition. Municipal inspections are separate inspections conducted by government agencies to verify that a property is in compliance with local codes. Home inspectors will

provide detailed reports describing the condition of a home and indicate if any repairs are in order.

DO I REALLY NEED A HOME INSPECTION?

A home inspection is a vital component that can help buyers make the most informed decision possible.

Forgoing an inspection can leave buyers vulnerable to potentially costly repairs and issues with a home that might have been detected with a proper home inspection. In addition, some lenders insist that buyers have home inspections conducted before they will allow them to borrow money.

Home inspections can protect home buyers as they prepare to make the most significant financial investment of their lives. More information about inspections can be found at www. homeinspector.org. homes.newsminer.com 17

18 homes.newsminer.com

Find Your Agent Find Your Home AGENT GENE DUVAL

RE/MAX Associates of Fairbanks 452-4363 GeneDuVal.com gene@geneduval.com

GRACE MINDER Grace Minder Realty, Inc. 378-8934

www.graceminder.com graceminder@yahoo.com

TRACI SCHACHLE Somers & Associates REALTORS® Inc. 322-0228

RealEstateInFairbanks.com traci@alaskarealtor.com

DIRECTORY LANA HEBERT

Somers & Associates REALTORS® Inc. (907) 590-3330 LanaHebert.com akrealtorlhebert@gci.net

GRACE MOORE

Lymburner Realty

235 N. Santa Claus Ln, Ste 8 North Pole

590-0306

Fairbanks-NorthPolehomes.com gracemoore@alaska.net

JANET SHAFER Fortune Properties 388-1400

Fortune@polarnet.com

RICH KELLEY Rich Kelley Realty 452-7424

www.richkelleyrealty.com rich@richkelleyrealty.com

GINGER OREM

Crown Real Estate AK, Inc. 452-8000

www.AskForGinger.com ginger@askforginger.com

BRUCE WAMMACK Interior Alaska Realty 322-2177

interiorrealty.com interiorrealty@ak.net

To have your information here in our next issue . . .

CALL

Advertising 907-459-7548 newsminer.com homes.newsminer.com 19

short sale

vs foreclosure

Shopping for real estate may require prospective buyers to learn a whole new language. Buyers may come across certain terms they don’t understand. Among the more common terms that first-time buyers may not fully understand are “short sale” and “foreclosure.”

A

ccording to Realtor.com, short sales and foreclosure auctions are situations that occur when homeowners fall behind on payments and can no longer afford to live in a home. A short sale happens when a homeowner owes more on the mortgage balance than the market value of the property when the owner needs to sell. The homeowner can ask the mortgage lender to accept a lesser amount than the total mortgage owed — making the homeowner/seller “short” on paying the lender back.

A foreclosure is a legal process that occurs when a borrower cannot make mortgage loan payments for a significant period of time. If the debt is not recouped, lenders will step in and take ownership of the property, putting it up for sale in a foreclosure auction.

While these situations can be troublesome for the homeowner facing financial peril, distressed properties can be advantageous for buyers who oftentimes can buy homes at steep discounts. However, short sales and foreclosures are not without challenges.

The real estate experts at Zillow say that foreclosures and short sales involve more layers than traditional transactions. ® Zillow offers that bank lenders historically can be slow at giving approval for mortgages to purchase short sale properties or even agreeing on an amount for the sale. As a result, buyers may miss out on other opportunities while waiting for short sales to move along.

Foreclosures carry their own hurdles. Buyers may not get a chance to even see a foreclosure property, nor be eligible to have it inspected, as foreclosed homes are typically sold “as-is” and at auction. The real estate agency Re/Max says buying a foreclosure typically is faster than buying a short sale, and an investor can buy a foreclosed home for below market value. But foreclosures cannot be contingent on the sale of another home, so a buyer must have funds in place and be ready to move quickly.

Short sales are often initiated by homeowners looking to avoid foreclosure. As a result, short sale properties may be in decent condition. This may not be the case with a foreclosure.

The American Society of Home Inspectors says foreclosed homes may have been neglected by having utilities turned off and no maintenance done on the home. Other homes may Call Laurence Oakes have been purposefully vandalized by the former owner or by 907-459-7531 • Cell: 907-450-9559 squatters.

Short sales and foreclosure properties are options for buyers who want to get the best price possible on a home and are willing to take some risks in their pursuits.

REALTORS

Place an ad in our Homes section and soon all you’ll have is

D L O S

D L SO

D L O S

D L O S

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Literature and Hollywood have done much to villainize bats, which many people perceive to be dangerous, blood-sucking creatures that prey on unsuspecting victims. However, bats are far less menacing than that. While there are bats that feed on blood (vampire bats), they tend to stick to cows, pigs, horses, and birds for their meals. It is uncommon for vampire bats to bite humans for food. Vampire bats make a small cut with their teeth and then lap

Bat facts

up the blood with their tongues, rather than “suck” the blood like they do in movies. These bats are native to Central and South America. Most other bats feed on fruit, fish or insects, particularly those that reside in North America. A single bat can eat up to 1,200 mosquitosized insects every hour, and a bat will usually eat around 8,000 insects a night. In fact, it is beneficial to have bats around since they might serve as all-natural pesticides. Bats are nocturnal

Games that can challenge the brain Games are as popular as ever. For evidence of that, one need look no further than his or her own smartphone. The number of hours people spend playing games on their smartphones might surprise even the most ardent players.

According to the mobile research firm Apptopia, between May and July of 2018, mobile users spent a whopping 3.38 billion hours playing the wildly popular strategy game “Clash of Clans,” making it the most popular smartphone game in the world during that time period.

Games might be seen as a way to unwind, but some games can potentially do more than merely provide a way to escape the daily grind. Brain teasers, riddles and crossword puzzles are just some of the types of games that can help people engage and

challenge their brains while still providing a bit of escapism.

A Healthier Michigan, which is sponsored

by Blue Cross Blue Shield Michigan and aims to help locals adopt healthier lifestyles, notes that the following exercises, games and platforms can help men and women challenge their brains in unique ways.

• BRAINHQ: According to Posit Science, which created the system, BrainHQ (www.aarp.brainhq.com) is a system of training the brain that was developed by neuroscientists and other brain experts. The BrainHQ platform includes various brain training exercises with hundreds of levels that can help people improve their brain function, including memory and retention.

• WRITING IN THE STARS: Similar to a crossword puzzle, this game provides a

mammals that “see” in the dark using echolocation. Their eyesight is actually quite poor, but these echos serve as a form of sonar so that bats can find prey and steer clear of obstacles in their path.

There are more than 1,000 different bat species. Some are solitary animals, while others thrive with hundreds of others in caves. Bats are nothing to fear — even around Halloween — and actually can be fascinating to study.

list of nine words to users, who must then find the six words that connect to from a six-point star before they can move on the next level. Available at www.happy-neuron. com, Writing in the Stars aims to help users improve their logical reasoning.

• PRIVATE EYE: With a goal of helping users improve their focused attention and concentration, Private Eye (www.happyneuron.com) asks players to peruse a grid full of intricate layers and symbols in an effort to find the item that does not belong.

• BRAINGLE: With more than 200,000 members, Braingle (www.braingle.com) is a popular online community where users can go to access brain teasers, trivia quizzes, IQ tests, and more. Users even rank the games, allowing novices to find games that might help them hone certain skills or ease their way into challenging their brains with games.

Millions of people across the globe play games every day. Though players often play games to have fun, they might be helping their brains without even knowing it. homes.newsminer.com 21

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Protect pets in case of fire

A fire at home can cause fear and anxiety.

When a fire breaks out at home, one’s initial reaction is to get oneself and one’s loved ones out of the house as quickly as possible. In such instances, the rush to get out of the house can sometimes cause families to forget their pets.

According to the home security firm Protect America, about 40,000 pets die in home fires every year. Many of those deaths are preventable. One of the best ways to prevent the death of pets in home fires is to devise a pet fire safety plan. Many parents devise fire safety and evacuation plans for their families, and it’s important to consider pets when devising such plans. In fact, the American Red Cross notes that the best way to protect pets from the effects of a fire is to include them in fire safety plans.

Prevention is an essential part of protecting pets from home fires. And many preventive measures are designed to keep pets from starting the fires in the first place, as the National Fire Protection Association notes that nearly 1,000 home fires are accidentally started by pets every year. The American Red Cross recommends the following preventive measures to keep pets from starting home fires.

• EXTINGUISH OPEN FLAMES

Pets tend to be curious, and that curiosity may draw them open flames burning in candles, cooking appliances and fireplaces. Make sure pets are never left unattended within the vicinity of open flames, and make sure all flames are thoroughly extinguished before leaving your home or going to bed at night.

• INSTALL KNOB COVERS ON YOUR STOVE

NEW OFFICE LOCATION: 220 PARK WAY, NORTH POLE, AK 99705 RIGHT BEHIND PIZZA HUT

PENDING

REDUCED

3148 BROOKVIEW 2905 CIRCLE LOOP Great rental property!! This split level 2 bedroom, 1 bath units and Looking for a nice house with 5 bedrooms, look no further!

This house is nestled back in a quiet area with a wonderful a shared 2 car garage has wonderful rental history. Tucked away manicured lawn and large fenced area in the back. alongside the slough for fun outdoor activities on just shy of two acres.

$229,000

163 SECOND AVE

$234,900

3924 LYLE AVE.

Quaint home in the city limits! This corner house has been updated and filled with charm throughout.

Looking for a duplex or a single family house? This well maintained property can go either way! A 4 bedroom, 2 bath, 2 car garage on over an acre has been used as a duplex over the last several years.

$115,000

$235,000

2960 NORTH POINT Gorgeous custom built home on lower Chena Ridge! This 3 bed, 3 1/2 bath, 2 car garage with a detached garage/workshop is raging with beauty.

$360,000 TOK CABIN Looking for a place to hunt, fish and trap or just plain relax... this is the cabin for you!! Outside Tok, Alaska on almost 5 acres of land.

$80,000 PENDING

6971 SWEREN LOOP Looking for a quiet area with over 2 acres and fenced in on CHSR? You’ll find it here with 2 bedrooms and 2 1/4 bathrooms with lots of space to spare.

2604 MERCIER Lovely 2 bed/2 bath home on a corner lot in town! Home has been well cared for over the years and it shows.

2760 EDDIE LANE Beautiful custom log home on 5 acres!! Step inside to this open kitchen and living room concept with vaulted ceilings. Three bedroom, two full baths with a laundry room and extra sink area.

$180,000

$244,900

$339,000

The Red Cross notes that stoves or Lana Hebert, Realtor cook tops are the Cell: 907-590-3330 | LanaHebert.com | akrealtorlhebert@gci.net ~ S er ved in the Militar y for over 20 years...time to ser ve you ~ most common piece of equipment LOUNGING AREAS NEAR involved in home fires started by pets.

ENTRYWAYS Knob covers on stove knobs can A sleeping and lounging area near an prevent pets from accidentally turning entryway, whether it’s the front door to burners on. a home or a door that allows access to the backyard, increases the chances that • USE FLAMELESS CANDLES Flameless candles can create a similar firefighters can quickly find and remove pets in the case of fire. ambience as traditional candles but won’t pose a fire risk. When pets knock • MAKE SURE PETS WEAR over flameless candles, the result is a COLLARS AT ALL TIMES minor inconvenience, not a home fire.

Pet owners can quickly attach leashes ®

F540491-1

• CONFINE PETS TO SECURE AREAS WHEN AWAY FROM HOME

Use baby gates or crates when away from home to ensure pets don’t gain access to areas that may be vulnerable to home fires.

In addition to taking steps to prevent their pets from starting fires, pet owners can take steps to make it easier for firefighters to find and successfully remove pets from homes that have caught fire.

• SET UP SLEEPING AND

to pets who wear collars at all times.

This can help pet owners gain quick control of their pets if a fire is scaring them or causing them to feel anxiety.

• AFFIX A PET ALERT WINDOW CLING

The Red Cross notes that pet alert window cling on the front of your home alerts firefighters to how many pets are in the home and saves them time in regard to locating pets.

Pets are as vulnerable to home fires as humans. Including pets in fire safety plans can save their lives. homes.newsminer.com 23

Homes Listed by

RAY BRASIER @ ASSOCIATES OF FAIRBANKS

(907) 750-3920 • HomesForSaleFairbanksAK.com GETTINGER'S FIELD

4740 Villanova

$338,500

Great Location! Amazing side by side ranch style duplex, located in the University West Subdivision.

Owner’s side which has been remodeled, to 4 bedrooms, 2 bath, with 2100 sq ft, 2 car garage, shop, and parking pad. Tenant side is 1050 sq ft with 2 bedrooms, 1 bath. It has a separate entrance and driveway. This duplex sits on a large South facing corner lot, with mature trees, raised bed garden, domestic raspberry and rose bushes.

There are large yellow cedar decks on both sides, were you are able to sit and enjoy the Alaskan summers. Each side has walk-in closets and kitchen pantry’s, and egress windows. Owner side has the updated kitchen and newer boiler.

ALASKA RANGE VIEW

Lot 1 $450,000 - 47.56 Acres Lot 2 $375,000 - 35 Acres Lot 3 $225,000 - 10 Acres Lot 4 $395,000 - 55 Acres

Lot 5 $675,000 - 160 Acres Lot 6 $157,000 - 40 Acres Lot 7 $99,500 - 120 Acres

1121 Koyukuk

1577 Gunning Drive

$359,900 232 Iditarod

This is a must see property, On over 2 acres, this house has an amazing view of the hills right off of Gilmore Trail. The kitchen is designed for the inter chef within you, it is very open and spacious, with great tile work, solid counter tops. Downstairs has 1 bedroom and bath, upstairs features the Master Suite and has a private tiled jetted tub, that sits under a large window that gives you a great view of the hills, a separate shower, and double vanities, and a walk-in closet. There are two additional rooms upstairs, one could be used for an office space, totaling 4 room all together.

The outside features an attached 2 car heated garage, and a separate shed. There is enough room for RV Parking, boats, and all your Alaskan toys.

$$$$$$

$189,900

3284 Jefferson Drive $259,900

Great home to build equity in, home is being sold $30,000 under assessed value. If your looking for a renovation home that has good bones and needs minimal work, i.e. painting flooring lighting etc then this home is for you. Some recent upgrades are new kitchen, shingle roof, upstairs windows have been updated and updated insulation in the roof.

Spacious 3 bedroom 2 bath 2 car garage home in highly desirable neighborhood.

Large fenced in backyard, gives you peace of mind for your pets and little ones. Some of the upgrades include, roof, updated kitchen, lighting, and flooring.

INCOME PROPERTY $ $ $ $ $ $ Gross Income is $92,400

City of North Pole

2957 Santa Patricia Court

$315,000

This home home has had renovations from top to bottom. The oversize chief kitchen has a wrap around quartz counter-top, with a large farm style stainless steel sink, high end hood and appliances. When redesigning the master suite, they combined 2 bedrooms making one of the bedrooms a walk-in closet and master bath. Downstairs Mother -n-law Suite has its own kitchen, and private entrance off of the garage. Home is listed 15,000 under 2017 Appraisal.

$825,000

The City of North Pole is currently going through growth and expansion. If your business is looking for great exposure, then you would be hard pressed to beat this location. Currently, there is a lease with Allstate and Arctic Explores Preschool.

1362 Becky Street

$135,000 1904 Rickert

$530,000

Previously this building was used as a church. With it’s wide open space, it Totally renovated energy efficient 14 plex on city utilities. Upgrades is easy to convert to a 3 bed room 4 unit 4 plex, with great parking. Great include, all new windows, new rafters, roofing siding, units are updated as needed. Energy include upgrades, remote walls insulated way to build equity.

to R43 walls. Non MLS property, listing licensee is part owner.

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