Alaska

Investing in real estate in Alaska can be a unique opportunity, as the state has a distinct economy and market conditions compared to other parts of the country. Alaska is known for its natural beauty, which can make it an attractive place to live and invest in real estate. However, the state has a relatively small population and can be isolated, which can make investing in real estate there more challenging. The economy of Alaska is heavily reliant on the oil industry, which can create a volatile market. Additionally, the state's harsh climate can make it more expensive to maintain and repair real estate. It is important for investors to carefully consider these and other factors before making any real estate investments in Alaska.

Sustainability Resources

The Real Estate industry is one of the most environmentally damaging industries in the world accounting for:
30%
of total carbon dioxide
40%
of all energy
40%
of all raw materials
Our goal is to give you the resources you need to take sustainable action in improving, building, retrofitting and revamping your home. The impacts are real, the benefits significant, and the need critical. Join us in bringing sustainability home and creating a brighter future for all, starting with you.

Save money and do the world a favor!
Here's a list of Sustainability Initiatives in the area:

WaterSense Webinars

WaterSense, a subset of the US EPA, puts on sustainability webinars that have different focuses.

Learn More
Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency

DSIRE's incentive and policy search tool allows you to search energy incentives and policies by state.

Learn More
Solar Incentives, Rebates and Tax Breaks by State

Energy Sage's Solar Savings by State tool allows you to search your state for solar rebates, incentives, and tax breaks.

Learn More

Alaska FAQs

Is Alaska a judicial or non-judicial state?

Non-Judicial

In a non-judicial foreclosure state, the lender does not need to go through the court system in order to foreclose on a property. This process can be quicker and less expensive for the lender compared to a judicial foreclosure.
In a non-judicial foreclosure state, the lender does not need to go through the court system in order to foreclose on a property. This process can be quicker and less expensive for the lender compared to a judicial foreclosure.

What is the process of closing on a property in Alaska?

Title companies, lenders, and private escrow companies all handle real estate escrows. Conveyance is by warranty deed. Deeds of trust with private power of sale are the customary security instruments. Foreclosures take 90-120 days. Alaskans use ALTA owner’s and lender’s policies with standard endorsements. There are no documentary or transfer taxes. Buyer and seller usually split the closing costs. Property tax payment dates vary throughout the state.

Property Taxes in Alaska?

Payment dates vary throughout the state.

In Alaska, does a property management company require a real estate broker's license?

YES. Property management is considered a real estate activity under existing Alaska real estate licensing laws. The Alaska Statutes clearly state that a license is required for any person or company that engages in the rent or lease of real estate in Alaska, who lists real estate for rent or lease or who collects rent for the use of real estate or fees for property management. A salesperson working under a broker may engage in such activities.

Are there any exceptions to the requirement that a property manager have a broker's license in Alaska?

Yes. For example, there is an exception for on-site managers residing at the residential complex they manage. For more information about these and other Alaska property management requirements and exceptions, please contact the Alaska Real Estate Commission. Before hiring a property manager to manage your Alaska rental property, you should always check that he or she is licensed appropriately. You can check the license status of Alaska property managers at the Alaska Real Estate Commission's "License Search" page.

Do you need a broker's license to manage community associations in Alaska?

You must be a real estate broker, an association real estate broker, or a real estate salesperson licensed in Alaska to collect fees for community association management and to practice or negotiate for a contract to practice community association management in Alaska. Licensees serving as community association managers must be covered by a blanket fidelity insurance bond and may not exercise control over the association's reserves or investments accounts. The broker may exercise control over the operating account if allowed under a contract approved by the association's board of directors AND duplicate financial statements are sent by the bank to the licensee and the association's board of directors at separate addresses. A limited license to practice community association management was available if certain conditions were met and the applicant applied for the limited license by January 1, 1999. For more information about these and other community association management requirements and exceptions, please contact the Alaska Real Estate Commission.

Alaska Real Estate Broker Requirements

Title companies, lenders, and private escrow companies all handle real estate escrows. Conveyance is by warranty deed. Deeds of trust with private power of sale are the customary security instruments. Foreclosures take 90-120 days. Alaskans use ALTA owner’s and lender’s policies with standard endorsements. There are no documentary or transfer taxes. Buyer and seller usually split the closing costs. Property tax payment dates vary throughout the state.

Alaska Real Estate Salesperson Requirements

Payment dates vary throughout the state.

How do property ownership transfers work in Alaska?

Warranty deed.

Cities