Home and Real Estate March 2021

SOUTHEAST ALASKA

HOMEESTATE

&REAL

FREE

MARCH 2021 Simple tips to meet the neighbors after moving 6 ways to organize your new office What to ask before renting a summer property Board games to beat bordom Benefits to organic foods How to store firewood Drone tips for beginners

a publication of the Juneau Empire

This home is listed by Gwen Place, see page 5 for more information

NEW HOME OWNER TIPS

Table of Contents

Simple strategies to meet the neighbors after moving

ON THE COVER:

This home is listed by Gwen Place

5 Coldwell Banker: Gwen Place

7 Sundance Realy

8 Business Directory • Ricker Real Estate • Alaska USA Mortgage: Mac Carandang • Coldwell Banker: Race Realty

12 Alaska USA Mortgage

Advertising Director, Sound Publishing, Inc. Stephanie Spiess

sspiess@soundpublishing.com

Publication Design SPI Creative team

3100 Channel Drive Juneau, AK 99801 Phone: 907-586-3740

2

BY METRO SERVICES REAL ESTATE FEATURES

A

lot goes into building safe, strong communities. While no single factor can be highlighted as more important than another in regard to building strong communities, a willingness on the part of residents to connect with their neighbors can greatly benefit local neighborhoods and the people who call those communities home.

According to Mental Health America®, a community-based nonprofit dedicated to promoting the mental health of all Americans, research has shown that social connections increase happiness and lead to improved overall health and even longer lives. Adults may find that establishing a connection with their communities, and maintaining that connection while juggling the responsibilities of work and a family, is not always so easy. That’s especially so for adults who have recently relocated to new areas. Reaching out to neighbors can be a great way for adults to build new relationships

that can benefit them as individuals and strengthen their communities.

• Don’t be shy. People often want to know who’s living next door, so adults who have recently moved need not be shy about introducing themselves to their new neighbors.

Introduce yourself and share what inspired you to move to your new neighborhood.

• Answer and ask questions. Neighbors will no doubt ask questions when you introduce yourself, so be ready to answer these questions.

Questions may focus on your career and where you grew up. If you grew up in the area where you recently moved, some of your neighbors likely did as well. Sharing stories about your school days and/or local hotspots can be a great way to break the ice. Don’t hesitate to ask some questions of your own as well.

Asking questions might reveal some common interests that can serve as strong foundations for budding relationships.

• Host a backyard barbecue. Backyard barbecues are laid back affairs,

and that pressure-free atmosphere is perfect for meeting new neighbors.

Once you have settled in, invite a handful of your neighbors over for the barbecue. If you have children, invite neighbors who also are parents, ideally ones whose children are the same age as your own. Kids have sparked many a conversation, and discussions about local schools, parks and programs for youngsters can be great ice breakers.

• Volunteer. Volunteering with community-based organizations is another great way to meet new neighbors. Volunteering with an organization whose mission you identify with may be even better, as you’re likely to find like-minded neighbors who share your passions when working with such groups.

Strong communities are built around people. When moving to a new community, adults can overcome the challenges such relocations present by taking various steps to connect with their new neighbors.

SMART STEPS

6 steps to organize your home office

BY METRO SERVICES REAL ESTATE FEATURES

Remote working has become popular in recent years, but the “working-from-home” economy bloomed exponentially as the world was forced to confront the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to Stanford economist Nicholas Bloom, as of summer 2020, 42 percent of the United States labor force was working from home full-time.

The need for home office spaces has increased as more people work from home. Many people have retrofitted various spaces around their homes into areas to get work done. More organized home work spaces can increase productivity. Individuals can follow these guidelines to create effective, organized home offices.

Begin with the desk The desk is the primary spot where work will take place. The right desk accessories can provide visual appeal and also serve practical purposes. Have cups for holding pens and pencils, baskets and bins for larger items, and

store whatever you can elsewhere so it does not lead to clutter on the desk. Store wireless printers in a cabinet or even on a bookshelf so it doesn’t take up real estate on the desk.

Create a printing station While you’re moving that wireless printer elsewhere, designate a space to serve as the central printing hub. This way children who need to print assignments for school will know where to go as well. Printer supplies like extra ink cartridges and printer paper can be kept in decorative storage boxes nearby.

Increase your shelving Shelving can help keep items organized and off the desk in home offices without closets or drawers. Look for shelves that blend in with decor but are sturdy enough to be functional.

Organize paperwork Figure out a system that works for you to help tidy up papers you choose to save. While some

papers can be scanned and stored as digital files, color-coded file folders can organize statements and other important documents.

This makes it easy to find the folder you need when looking for certain documents.

Establish a charging station Repurpose certain items, such as a desk organizer, into an easily accessible electronics charging station where phones and tablets can charge at one time.

Make essential binders HGTV suggests making binders that can store the most important papers for easy access — even in an emergency. Set up a binder for automotive paperwork, including repair receipts, a medical binder where key medical records are kept, a binder for manuals for devices in the home, and one to store financial planning documents.

These organizational tips can help remedy common problems around a home office.

3

GREAT TIPS

What to ask before renting a summer property

BY METRO SERVICES

A

REAL ESTATE FEATURES

4

home away from home can be the ideal retreat for couples, singletons and families. Quite often individuals reserve the same properties year after year to serve as a vacation retreat. The familiarity and comfort of a rental can be the ideal place to spend a few days or weeks during a vacation.

Data from HomeAway®, a vacation rental booking service, says that many people book summer rentals as early as January to ensure they have the perfect place to stay during the peak season. However, for vacations taken in July and beyond, locking down one’s stay between May and July are possible. Ski season stays as well as holiday retreats are best booked by October, advises the company.

When it comes time to research and book a rental, it is important to note that listings likely won’t paint the full picture. It is important to ask the right questions and conduct a thorough vetting of properties before booking a rental.

• Get the facts of the contract and exactly what the rental entails. Are use of WiFi or cable television available? Are you responsible for taking out the trash and recycling? What is the cancellation policy? Are there any fees incurred for minor damage to the home? The contract should be as thorough as possible so there are no surprises later on.

• Explore pet-friendly accommodations.

Many people choose to travel with pets, which can make it less stressful than leaving companion animals behind. What may constitute “pet-friendly” to one landlord may not be the same to another. One house may have a fenced yard and a dog house. Another may actually let the pet have free reign of the house without having to be crated. It helps to know the difference in advance. The vacation rental site VRBO says there is no standard for making a home accommodating to pets.

JUNEAUEMPIRE.COM

• Learn about parking. The Evolve Vacation Rental Network says to ask the specifics of the parking situation, including whether there is a driveway or on-street parking. If there is on-street parking, find out if the vehicle needs to be moved for street cleaning or specific zoning.

• Learn the lingo. For those booking international rentals, certain nuances of the listing lingo may be different than you’re used to. In-

quire specifically about the number of rooms and bedrooms so you are properly prepared.

• Find out if the kitchen is equipped. Some kitchens come with a ladle and saucepan only, while others may be fully outfitted for gourmet meals. It helps to have an idea so that shopping lists can be made if meals will be prepared at the rental.

Careful vetting and a little leg work can help vacationers find the ideal vacation property.

HAINES BUSINESS

HAINES BUSINESS

JUNEAU LAND

MLS#19663 - $1.6 million - 150 Acre Golf Course, Haines AK, Golf Carts, Mowers and a Golf Shop - by Pam Race

MLS#20873 - $1.5 million - 3.2 Acre Riverfront Jet Boat Tours, Haines AK, boats, busses and the dock - by Glenda Gilbert

MLS#12467 - $415,000 - 4.79 Acres Residential Land, Juneau AK, access road built, tide flat views - by Errol Champion

JUNEAU LAND

HORSE ISLAND CABIN

JUNEAU MULTI FAMILY

MLS#18745 - $250,000 - 13 Acres Residential land, Juneau AK, partly wooded, waterfront, access by easement- by Gwen Place

MLS#19147 - $369,000 - 2 bed 1 bath cabin on over an acre wooded lot. Waterfront with views. Accessed by water - by Errol Champion

MLS#19787 - $410,000 - 5 plex located centrally near shopping and public bus line. Income producing property. Fixer Upper - by Linda Orr

HAINES HOME

HAINES HOME

GUSTUVAS HOME

MLS#20324 - $875,000 - Fort William Seward - National Landmark, 5 bedroom 5 bath home, Haines AK - by Glenda Gilbert

MLS#15881 - $479,000 - Small home and studio apartment over the 2 plus car garage covered parking. 1/2 acre lot with views - by Glenda Gilbert

MLS#21084 - $185,000 - 1 bedroom 1 bath home, 1.56 acres, wooded lot, Gustuvas, AK - by Gwen Place

MORE LAND

RENTALS

• • • •

MLS#19214 - 1 Acre - Wooded lot - Platted Access - Angoon AK - $9,000 MLS#13094 - .35 Acre - Wooded building lot - Glacier Hwy - $89,000 MLS#18257 - .76 Acre - Wooded building lot - Out the Road - $159,000 MLS#13954 - 3.34 Acre - Wooded building lot - Blueberry Hill - $250,000

• Pet Friendly - 1 bedroom 1 bathroom North Douglas Apartment - $1150/mo • Filtered View - 1 bedroom 1 bathroom West Juneau - $1100/mo

Gwen Place

Associate Broker, Property Manager, REALTOR® Coldwell Banker Race Realty gwenzplace@yahoo.com yourjuneaualaska.com

www.RaceRealty.com Office: 907-789-0555 Cell: 907-209-4445 Call or Text

Each office is independently owned and operated.

HOME BUYERS

Board game are family-friendly bordom busters

BY METRO SERVICES

F

REAL ESTATE FEATURES

6

amilies spend a lot of quality time together. While there are many ways to fill that time, sometimes the best activities are those that inspire a bit of nostalgia.

Board games have been a tried and true family activity for centuries. In fact, Senet, which is believed to be the world’s first board game, was enjoyed in Ancient Egypt as far back as 3500 BCE. Checkers, chess and backgammon are some other beloved board games that have withstood the test of time.

Many family-friendly board games that have been developed through the years are just as fun to play today as they were when they were first introduced.

• The Game of Life®: The idea behind this game is to go through life making smart decisions. The player who retires first and with the most money is the winner. It can be a great way to teach youngsters about money management and sound decision-making.

JUNEAUEMPIRE.COM

• Scrabble®: Players strategically place letter tiles on the board in a crossword puzzle format. These letters form words, and each letter is valued differently, creating a score for each word. Families can enjoy this fun competition while expanding their vocabularies.

• Clue®: Clue is the original “who done it” mystery game. Players attempt to figure out which suspect was involved in the crime against Mr. Boddy, naming the room in which it took place as well as the weapon used during the crime. Although it’s somewhat macabre, the game can instill thoughtful problem-solving skills as players try to narrow down the possibilities.

• Monopoly®: The first Monopoly game was released in 1935, and since then there have been various incarnations. The game involves buying and trading properties and requires both risk and luck. Monopoly is fun to play and teaches great lessons regarding real estate, budgeting and other financial skills.

• Battleship®: What started out as a pen-andpaper game during World War I evolved into a successful strategy game. Two players attempt to target and sink their opponents battleships on a 10 x 10 grid.

• Chess: Players have to maneuver 16 pieces across a 64-square game board with the ultimate goal being to checkmate the opponent’s king piece. This game has endured nearly 1,500 years and has many different fans.

Board games can be an ideal activity that the entire family can enjoy together.at night as residents try to get ready to sleep. Portable nightstand lights can make it easier for couples sharing a bedroom, allowing one person to stay up and read while the other goes to sleep.

Homeowners have many options and many needs when choosing lighting for their homes. A professional consultation with a lighting expert or interior decorator can help homeowners find lights that provide both practical and aesthetic appeal.

GROCERY TIPS

The benefits of organic foods

BY METRO SERVICES REAL ESTATE FEATURES

M

odern grocery stores are unlike the ones many of today’s adults encountered when they were children. Grocery stores are not only bigger today than they were years ago, but they’re also stocked with items that weren’t available until relatively recently.

One stroll through the produce section reveals just how different modern grocery stores are from those of yesteryear. Organic fruits and vegetables now take up ample real estate in grocery store produce sections. Many shoppers may wonder if they’re better off choosing organic versus traditional products, and research suggests they are.

• Organic foods contain less pesticides and toxic materials. A 2014 meta-analysis published in the British Journal of Nutrition found that organically grown crops were less likely than conventionally grown crops to contain detectable levels of pesticides. The analysis also found that organically

JANET ARGEVITCH ARGEVITCH JANET

321-3325

723-9333

Marty-lentz@gci.net MARTY LENTZ

Ja@alaskan.com

MIKE BAN

Associate Broker 209-6842 209-6842

sometimes injected with synthetic growth hormones so they will gain weight more quickly and produce more milk. Residue from those substances, which cannot be used in the production of organic meat and dairy products, is believed to contribute to widespread antibiotic resistance, according to the Biodesign Center for Environmental Security at Arizona State University. In addition, some studies have suggested a strong connection between the hormones given to cattle and cancer in humans.

• Organic dairy products can promote cardiovascular health. A 2013 study from researchers affiliated with the Center for Sustaining Agriculture and Natural Resources found that organic milk contained 25 percent less omega-6 fatty acids and 62 percent more omega-3 fatty acids than conventional milk. The Organic Center notes that’s a considerable benefit, as higher amounts of omega-3 and lower amounts of omega-6 fatty acids helps promote cardiovascular health and support the immune system.

MARTY LENTZ

MIKE BAN

ASSOCIATE BROKER mikebanatexitrealty@gmail.com mikebanatexitrealty@gmail.com

grown crops were 48 percent less likely to contain cadmium than conventionally grown crops. Cadmium is a toxic heavy metal that can accumulate in the liver and kidneys, which the Global Healing Center says can affect blood pressure, induce bone damage and affect renal and dopamingeric systems in children.

• Organic crops contain more antioxidants than conventional crops. The same analysis also found that organic crops had significantly higher levels of antioxidants, which promote strong immune systems, than conventionally grown crops.

Organic crops were found to contain 69 percent higher levels of flavanones and 51 percent higher levels of anthocyanins than their conventional counterparts. The extra antioxidants in organic foods is nothing to scoff at, as the National Cancer Institute notes that antioxidants neutralize free radicals, excess levels of which can potentially lead to the formation of various types of cancer and other diseases.

• Organic products cannot contain synthetic hormones. Conventionally raised animals are

ASSOCIATE BROKER Associate Broker

72-9333

MICHELLE DOMINGO MICHELLE DOMINGO 957-5522

957-5522

Michelle.juneau80@yahoo.com

Michelle.juneau80@yahoo.com

ja@alaskan.com

321-3325 Marty-lentz@gci.net

ANAVERA MORATO 321-0293 ANAVERA MORATO 321-0293

Anavera.morato@gmail.com

Anavera.morato@gmail.com

SUNDANCE REALTY

Alaska Seafood Company • Asking $2,200,000 5731 Concrete Way Juneau, AK 99801 907-321-7120 Sundanceinjuneau@gmail.com 9109 Mendenhall Mall Road, Suite #10 Juneau, AK 99801

907-321-7120 JuneauHomeFinder.com

RESIDENTIAL, COMMERCIAL, INDUSTRIAL AND PROPERTY MANAGEMENT. WE SERVE ALL OF SOUTHEAST

MOLLY BRINK

MOLLY BRINK

LUKE GUNKEL

321-5400

723-0759

Mgallagherbrink@gmail.com

ltgunkel@gmail.com

321-5400

mgallagherbrink@gmail.com

SCAN TO SEE ALL OUR PROPERTIES

ESTATE HOME Business Directory

& REAL Tracey Ricker, CPM Broker/General Manager Sales • Leasing • Management 1410 4th Street • Douglas, Alaska 99824 tracey@rrec-llc.com • www.rickerrealestateak.com

907-540-2990

Your local home loan expert!

Mac Carandang NMLS #203501 Sr. Mortgage Loan Originator

907-796-1201 www.maccarandang.com

Serving Southeast Alaska

Online all the time: racerealty.com | 907-789-0555 2103 Jordan Ave.

8390 Airport Blvd, Suite 102

Each office indepenently owned and operated

License #AK157293; Washington Consumer Loan Company License #CL-157293

Call Stephanie Spiess 308-4893

HOME TIPS

How to store firewood the right way ly takes six months to a year.

Homeowners may opt to fireplace is a cozy and purchase seasoned wood that warm spot around already has sat and dried. which a family can Homeowners who have an gather. The home and real abundance of firewood have estate resource HomeGuides. to store it somewhere. Log com indicates that 60 percent Splitters Direct suggests of new homes have a fireplace, choosing a dry, breezy area which is up from 36 percent in of the property that is about the 1970s.

20 feet from the nearest door Naturally, fueling a fireplace to the house. This helps avoid for the season may require hitchhiker pests from coming homeowners with wood-burn- inside with the wood, such ing units to keep an ample as termites, ants, spiders, and supply of wood at the ready. mice. Do not stack the wood How that wood is stored is flush against a structure. It important, as properly stored should be at least a few inches firewood can prevent waste away to allow airflow behind and other issues around the the stack. house.

Stick to organized rows of Wood that is freshly cut has wood no more than four feet a water content of 60 percent high. Log racks and pallets or more. Yet, for best burning and posts will keep the wood ability, wood should be near up and off of the ground 20 percent in water content. where moisture and rotting Green wood is hard to ignite can develop. Placing the logs and will not burn nearly as in an unorganized pile will well or efficiently as seasoned impede air flow and cause wood. Another concern asthe wood to rot rather than sociated with green wood is continue to dry and season that it can contribute more to even more. creosote accumulation in the Homeowners also should use flue of a fireplace. Creosote is a a cover to protect seasoned combustible material that may firewood from the elements. lead to fires if left unchecked.

Position a tarp or plastic sheetAccording to BioAdvanced®, ing so it blankets the top of the a science-based lawn, garden stack and extends a few inches and home improvement inno- down the sides. Keep the sides vator, seasoning wood typical- mostly exposed to air. Others

BY METRO SERVICES REAL ESTATE FEATURES

A

10

JUNEAUEMPIRE.COM

prefer to stack it in a barn or shed or under an overhang.

Green wood is less expensive than seasoned wood. Those who prefer this method should do so in the early spring and let it season over the next several months.

Bankrate says that the cost of

a cord of wood varies across the country, but in general one can expect to pay between $120 and $180 for a cord of hardwood that is split and seasoned. This price may be higher in mid-winter when demand increases.

HOME FUN

Drone usage for beginners

BY METRO SERVICES REAL ESTATE FEATURES rones continue to attract hobbyists across the world. In mid-2017, 8 percent of Americans said they owned a drone, and nearly 60 percent had seen one in action, according to a Pew Research Center survey. The Federal Aviation Administration predicted sales of drones would reach seven million units by 2020.

Businesses also rely on drones in various applications. Camera-equipped aerial devices can provide bird’s-eye views of real estate for sale or college campuses for promotional purposes, as well as topography assessments prior to construction. When the FAA opened a new drone registration system on December 21, 2015, more than 181,000 drones were registered within a month. The database continues to grow and help prevent potentially dangerous incidents involving drones flying in restricted air space, among other issues.

Flying drones where they shouldn’t be is just one potential pitfall of drone use. Beginners may need a crash course in safety before they take their devices to the sky. The following are some tips to help people become competent drone operators.

• Upon receiving a drone, register it with the FAA through the Unmanned Aircraft Registration system if it weighs more than .55 grams and less than 55 pounds.

D

Registration costs $5.

• Read the drone manual first before operating the device. Doing so will help you become familiar with the drone’s specific features.

• Master the controls by taking the drone out in a wide open and safe space or use flight simulators if the drone comes equipped with them. Drone usage requires practice and expertise comes with repetition and mastery of each button and function.

• Familiarize yourself with restricted areas. Any national or state park is off limits to drone

use, according to The National Park Service. This also applies to the many seashores and other sites run by the NPS. The regulations evolve, so it pays to stay upto-date regarding where drones can be used.

• Know drone laws where you live, as many states have drone laws in place.

• Focus your attention on the drone and try to avoid distractions. Having too many people around while you’re flying the drone may be distracting, so avoid flying one near crowds.

• Keep the drone in sight so that you’ll be better able to see potential hazards or obstacles.

• Windy days are some of the most difficult conditions in which to fly a drone. Avoid windy days, particularly if you are a novice.

• Accidents will happen as you get to know the drone. Keep spare parts on hand to make repairs as necessary.

Drones are popular among professionals and hobbyists alike.

Learning to operate the drones in a safe and effective manner can ensure greater success.

JUNEAUEMPIRE.COM

11

1 FOR A REASON

#

What does it take to be the #1 home lender in Alaska? A commitment to the unique needs of the individual. That means having professionals that specialize in helping military families, first time buyers, rural development, and a whole lot more.

Why choose Alaska USA Mortgage Company?

Pay less up-front In-house processing, underwriting, and servicing Clear communication, reliable updates, and flexible availability A commitment to providing the best home buying experience in Alaska

People you know. A name you trust.®

Laurie Gardner Vincent Cheng Mac Carandang NMLS #203501

NMLS #964649

r apply o t n e m t n i o n app

Southeast Alaska 8390 Airport Blvd., Ste. 102, Juneau, AK 99801

907-796-1202

907-796-1213

907-796-1201

M a ke a

NMLS #204060

onl

ortga m a s u a k s a l ine at a

ge.com

License #AK157293 Washington Consumer Loan Company License #CL-157293