Today, I want to talk about the five common real estate scams that are going on in the market right now.  We're getting to our busy season and it's time to bring awareness to these so that you know what to look out for: Loan flipping: Predatory lenders convince homeowners to refinance their homes multiple times, charging higher fees and costs with each refinancing. It's advisable to work with trusted professional lenders. Foreclosure relief: Scammers claim they can save homes from foreclosure or reduce mortgage payments for a large upfront fee. Homeowners should be cautious and avoid payi ..read more

Once you've found the perfect Alaskan home, made an offer, and had it accepted, you'll need to make it through the mortgage closing before you are handed your keys. You may be anxious to officially become a homeowner, but the time it takes to close is dependent on a variety of factors— some of which are in your control! If you're planning to buy a new home in Fairbanks, Anchorage, Eagle River, Palmer, Wasilla, North Pole, and beyond, you'll want to familiarize yourself with the following things that can slow down your mortgage closing: Making big purchases You may be excited about your new hom ..read more

While you may be watching mortgage rates rise (the average 30-year fixed rate currently hovering around 7 percent) and the number of homes to choose from on the lower end, there is one important concept to consider— buying a home in Alaska is still a better investment than renting. We know that buying a home can feel like a major obstacle for many first-timers in Fairbanks, Anchorage, Eagle River, Palmer, Wasilla, North Pole, and beyond, but passing on the opportunity this year could create an even bigger hurdle later as rents will only continue to rise and the days of the 3 percent mortgage r ..read more

As a buyer in Fairbanks, Anchorage, Eagle River, Palmer, Wasilla, North Pole, and the surrounding areas, it is essential to consider all costs association with your new home. Everything from maintenance to renovation, repairs and closing costs should be factored in to ensure that you do not have any surprises or worries down the road. But if you’re purchasing a new construction home in Alaska, it’s also important to be aware of the costs you’ll have after the closing. Below are four costs you will have after the purchase of your new construction home in Fairbanks, Anchorage, Eagle River, Palme ..read more

You may be watching both home prices and mortgage rates tick upwards in today’s unpredictable real estate market, wondering if buying a home right now is your best bet. While it may be an expensive endeavor, your goal of owning a home in Fairbanks, Anchorage, Eagle River, Palmer, Wasilla, North Pole, and the surrounding areas is not out of reach. There are many strategies for saving money and staying on budget while buying a home in Alaska and as your local real estate experts, we are listing four to try below. Continue on for top tactics for becoming a homeowner in the current real estate mar ..read more

No matter where you live—Fairbanks, Anchorage, Eagle River, Palmer, Wasilla, or North Pole—the upcoming spring season is often a busy time to buy a new home. The weather is warming up, you can take advantage of mortgage rates before they rise again, and and you can settle into your new property before the summer starts. However, with moving also comes waves of excitement and nerves that can cause you to forget a few things along the way (more than just an extra box or two!). You can count on Madden Real Estate to make sure your moving process is as stress-free as possible— take the following f ..read more

It may be difficult to begin thinking spring when the weather is still quite cold here in Alaska, but inside your home, there are a number of projects you can take on! It’s never too early to tackle spring cleaning and if you’re planning to sell your home in the Fairbanks, Anchorage, Eagle River, Palmer, Wasilla, or North Pole area this year, buyers will certainly notice and appreciate your efforts! Below are the most effective spring cleaning projects you can cross off of your list now in your Alaska home: Clean the windows Winter brings those long, dark days, but you would be amazed at how m ..read more

While the holidays may have just ended, the spring real estate market will be here before we know it in Fairbanks, Anchorage, Eagle River, Palmer, Wasilla, North Pole, and the surrounding areas. Soon a wave of potential buyers will take to searching for their perfect property as the weather starts to turn around. Not only do the warming temperatures play a role in getting buyers out and about to tour homes for sale, but lower inventory just may give sellers an edge. However, that doesn't always mean your Alaskan home is ready for buyers to step inside and prepare their offers. You may need to ..read more

As they say, the kitchen is the heart of the home— but it's also the place that can become the messiest! With the new year just days away, Alaska residents are preparing for a fresh start and what better spot than in this busy area of your home? Follow these easy tips for creating a clean slate in your Alaskan home kitchen just in time for 2023: Clean out the cabinets First, start by removing any odds and ends that belong in other places of your Fairbanks, Anchorage, Eagle River, Palmer, Wasilla, or North Pole home— mail, books, electronics. Next, empty every cabinet, drawer and shelf, clearin ..read more

We all know schedules can get a bit hectic during the holiday season and before you know it, your guests have arrived at the door! There is no better time than now to get your Alaskan home in order for hosting holiday gatherings this year, no matter how many you plan to have in attendance. The best way to avoid any last minute headaches? Take it one room at a time and the earlier you can begin, the better! Consider these following five tasks your go-to list for holiday home prep and enjoy the season without any Alaska homeowner hassles! Clean out the closets Give your guests more room to hang ..read more