Iditarod...an Alaskan tradition

In case you are not following the Iditarod, or dare I say "have never heard of the Iditarod" you are missing an Alaskan tradition at it's best. You can watch the finish line in Nome LIVE today via the website or channel 2 on your TV. They are expecting Lance Mackey to be over the line around 12:30pm this afternoon. If you ever get a chance to watch any of the documentaries about the Iditarod, do take advantage of it. They are super informative and very well done. Before I moved to Alaska, I had no idea what the Iditarod was about other than watching the move Balto and knowing a little bit about the history of the run. Boy were my eyes opened when we came to Alaska and began to learn about this amazing feat. The dogs are tremendous athletes and the mushers just amaze me in what they can accomplish in Alaska in the winter. A great Alaskan tradition and one worth learning about.

Wanna learn about real estate in Alaska too? I would be happy to share what I know with you. Whether you are a buyer or seller, let me help you 'know the realities...find the dreams' in this amazing place called Alaska. Go to my website at www.dodykettler.com or email me at dkettler@prualaska.com if you have any questions.

Buyers: Interest rates are incredible this week! Conventional loans in the 4.75% range. Remember, good credit is key right now. If you haven't already done so, get to your favorite lender. My favorite happens to be HomeState Mortgage Co here in Wasilla. The wonderful lenders at HS can help you develop a plan to better your credit score and get you prepared to purchase a home. There are many listings coming online and you want to be able to get the best rates possible. Be sure to tell them Dody sent you.

Sellers: Buyers are starting to buy because of interest rates and tax incentives. Now is the time to get your home listed. Remember, the first few weeks are the times when you get the most attention put on your home from the Realtors, so have your home in show-ready condition and keep it that way. A home that shows well usually sells. Our time on market is somewhat increased so even though we are still selling lots of houses, it is taking a bit longer. Be patient and price your home to sell.

Valley Happenings: Palmer Chamber of Commerce is hosting Neal Fried, state economist, today during their regular meeting. I will be attending and am excited to hear about his forecast for Alaska and our economy. He is always not only informative by entertaining. If you get a chance to come out to the Palmer Moose Lodge for lunch you won't regret it.