Alaska Real Estate Podcast

Alaska Real Estate Podcast
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Discover the latest insights, trends, and stories shaping Alaska’s unique real estate market. Join hosts Connie & Lottie as they guide you through buying, selling, and investing across the Last Frontier.

  1. The New Fed Report: Buying or Selling in Alaska Right Now?

    5d ago

    The New Fed Report: Buying or Selling in Alaska Right Now?

    Mike James is back on the podcast, and this time he joined Lottie to discuss some of the biggest economic issues affecting Alaska right now. From interest rates to resource development, they explore how decisions being made at both the state and federal levels could impact Alaska's future. What New Leadership at the Fed Could Mean One of the topics Lottie and Mike discuss is the potential impact of new leadership at the Federal Reserve.With many people hoping for lower interest rates, the conversation focuses on why gradual reductions may be healthier for the economy than dramatic cuts. Predictability and stability remain important factors for both residential and commercial real estate markets. Why Alaska's Resource Economy Matters While national economic policy gets plenty of attention, Mike explains why Alaska's resource industry continues to play a major role in the state's future.They cover North Slope oil and gas development, mining projects, and the growing interest from federal leaders in Alaska's natural resources. These projects have the potential to create jobs, attract investment, and strengthen local economies across the state. The Role of the Military and Energy Infrastructure Lottie and Mike also discuss the connection between Alaska's military presence and the state's energy resources.Military installations remain an important part of Alaska's economy, and large infrastructure projects such as the Alaska gas line could have long-term implications for both economic growth and national security. Looking Ahead for Alaska One of the biggest takeaways from this conversation is that momentum continues to build around Alaska's economic opportunities.However, turning that potential into long-term success will require stable policies, thoughtful leadership, and continued investment in the projects that support Alaska's future growth. "The best-case scenario is to keep the status quo. When rates move up or down it creates uncertainty in the market." — Lottie Michael "The Alaska gas line is one of the most important projects we should all stop and pay attention to." — Mike James Resources If you're looking for commercial real estate opportunities in Alaska, contact Lottie Michael at lottie@lottiemichael.com or 907-242-7603.For help buying or selling residential real estate in Alaska, contact Connie Yoshimura at 907-229-2703. Sponsorship This episode is brought to you in part by Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Alaska Realty. Transform your real estate journey with expert guidance. Check out their services: https://www.bhhsalaska.com/ Credits ©2025 Alaska Real Estate Podcast. All rights reserved. Music by SoundStripe

    14 min
  2. Annual Shareholders Meeting

    May 27

    Annual Shareholders Meeting

    Lottie is back from Berkshire Hathaway’s annual shareholders meeting in Omaha, often called the “Woodstock for Capitalists,” and I wanted to hear everything she learned. We sat down to talk about leadership lessons, business philosophy, Berkshire Hathaway’s company structure, and what real estate professionals can take away from one of the world’s largest organizations. Leadership and Long-Term Thinking Lottie shares insights from this year’s meeting, including Berkshire Hathaway’s leadership transition and how the company empowers leaders to make decisions while maintaining accountability.We also talk about why avoiding micromanagement creates stronger teams and better long-term results. Always, make decisions and move forward. Waiting too long can create bigger problems. Why Berkshire Hathaway Operates Differently We also discuss Berkshire Hathaway’s business structure and why allowing companies to operate independently creates focus and long-term stability.Unlike organizations that heavily cross-promote services, Berkshire Hathaway gives its companies autonomy while remaining connected through the larger organization.Lottie also shares insights into Berkshire Hathaway’s investments across industries like utilities, rail, insurance, housing, and consumer brands.Long-term thinking, strong leadership, and trusting people to do their jobs well creates businesses built to last. "One thing I appreciated about Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices was the focus on real estate first, without pressure around mortgage or title services." — Connie Yoshimura "Make a decision and move forward. No decision is often the worst decision." — Lottie Michael Resources If you have questions or just want to chat, feel free to email us at podcast@bhhsalaska.com.Connie Yoshimura number: 907-229-2703Lottie Michael Number: 907-242-7603 Sponsorship This episode is brought to you in part by Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Alaska Realty. Transform your real estate journey with expert guidance. Check out their services: https://www.bhhsalaska.com/ Credits ©2025 Alaska Real Estate Podcast. All rights reserved. Music by SoundStripe

    15 min
  3. Landscaping (commercial and residential)

    May 20

    Landscaping (commercial and residential)

    How is Anchorage balancing housing affordability with future growth and development? I invited Bob Doehl, Director of Community and Economic Development for the Municipality of Anchorage, to join me for a conversation. We discuss Title 21, home ownership incentives, and how the city is approaching future development. Meet Bob Doehl Bob Doehl serves as the Director of Community and Economic Development for the Municipality of Anchorage. His department oversees areas like building safety, land use planning, private subdivision development, and municipal real estate. Much of his work focuses on supporting economic growth while helping address Anchorage’s housing needs. The department also works closely with Public Works to coordinate development projects with municipal infrastructure improvements. Streamlining Regulations with Title 21 One of the biggest topics we discuss is Title 21, Anchorage’s land-use code. Bob explains how the municipality is working to make the development process more predictable and less expensive. A new “spring housekeeping bill” was introduced to help clear up confusing language and inconsistencies within the code. The goal is to remove outdated standards that no longer fit Anchorage’s long-term development plans. Incentivizing Home Ownership We also discuss new proposals aimed at making home ownership more accessible. One proposal focuses on tax abatements for first-time home buyers purchasing newly built homes. Another initiative would provide tax relief for developers converting older buildings into multi-purpose housing with condo units. Bob shares how these programs could help more residents build long-term wealth through home equity. Future Development and Land Use As Anchorage continues to grow, the municipality is also looking at ways to increase housing density while improving quality of life. Bob talks about the importance of creating vibrant downtown spaces, maintaining trail systems, and keeping Anchorage competitive with nearby areas like the Mat-Su Valley.We also discuss ongoing conversations around repurposing closed schools and other public lands for future residential development. “We have to compete by creating a higher quality of life while increasing affordability and making Anchorage a place where people want to live, work, and play.” — Bob Doehl Resources If you have questions or just want to chat, feel free to email us at podcast@bhhsalaska.com.Connie Yoshimura number: 907-229-2703Lottie Michael Number: 907-242-7603 Sponsorship This episode is brought to you in part by Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Alaska Realty. Transform your real estate journey with expert guidance. Check out their services: https://www.bhhsalaska.com/ Credits ©2025 Alaska Real Estate Podcast. All rights reserved. Music by SoundStripe

    25 min

  4. May 13

    Banks vs Credit Unions in Alaska—The Numbers Don't Lie

    Mortgage rates, AI, competition, housing shortages, and growth in the Mat-Su Valley are all changing the way lenders operate in Alaska. That’s why I invited Tara Karcz, Senior Vice President of Mortgage Lending at Nuvision Federal Credit Union, to share how lending is evolving and what she’s seeing across Anchorage and the Valley. Meet Tara Karcz Tara Karcz is the Senior Vice President of Mortgage Lending at Nuvision Federal Credit Union, where she oversees a mortgage portfolio of more than $1 billion. She also works closely with the commercial lending team and has extensive experience serving borrowers across Alaska.Through her leadership role, Tara focuses on helping members navigate mortgage lending, construction lending, portfolio loans, and first-time home buying programs. She is also passionate about community involvement and supporting organizations that serve veterans, military families, first responders, and children throughout Alaska. What Makes A Credit Union Different? Tara explains that one of the biggest differences between a credit union and a traditional bank is the focus on members instead of shareholders.Because credit unions are member-owned, the focus is often centered around relationships, service, and giving back to the community. Tara shares how Nuvision supports veterans, first responders, military families, and local organizations through community events and volunteer work throughout the year.She also explains how Nuvision’s ability to portfolio loans creates more flexibility for borrowers. Instead of treating every borrower exactly the same, their team can take a deeper look at credit profiles, compensating factors, and individual circumstances. Why Lending Has Become More Competitive One of the biggest themes throughout our conversation is how much the lending industry has changed over the last few years. Tara shares how AI, online research, and changing consumer behavior are creating a much more competitive market.Today’s buyers are researching rates, lenders, and loan programs before ever speaking to someone directly. Many younger buyers also expect a faster and more digital experience throughout the lending process.At the same time, Tara explains that relationships still matter. Service, trust, and understanding a member’s long-term goals continue to play a major role in standing out in today’s market. The Growth Of The Mat-Su Valley We also spend time talking about the continued growth happening in the Valley and why so many buyers are moving outside Anchorage. Limited land availability in Anchorage, new construction opportunities in Mat-Su, and changing lifestyle preferences are all contributing to that shift.Tara also shares her perspective on Anchorage, the future of development, and why public-private partnerships may become increasingly important as Alaska continues to look for new housing opportunities. “One of the things I’ve always loved about being in Anchorage is being part of the community and watching it grow.” — Tara Karcz Resources If you have questions or just want to chat, feel free to email us at podcast@bhhsalaska.com.Connie Yoshimura number: 907-229-2703Lottie Michael Number: 907-242-7603 Sponsorship This episode is brought to you in part by Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Alaska Realty. Transform your real estate journey with expert guidance. Check out their services: https://www.bhhsalaska.com/ Credits ©2025 Alaska Real Estate Podcast. All rights reserved. Music by SoundStripe

    25 min
  5. The Do's and Don't's of HOA's

    May 6

    The Do's and Don't's of HOA's

    What are you really signing up for when you buy into an HOA in Alaska? And how do you know if it’s protecting your investment or setting you up for unexpected challenges? I sat down with Steve Bergin and Thomas Moore to walk through what homeowners associations actually do and what you need to pay attention to before you buy. What HOAs Really Do for a Community When most people think about HOAs, they think about rules. But there’s more to it than that. HOAs maintain shared spaces like roads, hallways, and common areas, while also helping protect property values by keeping neighborhoods consistent and well maintained.A strong HOA operates like its own nonprofit organization, with a board of directors, insurance policies, and systems in place to manage the community long term. How HOAs Show Up in Alaska Alaska has far fewer HOAs than most states. In places like the Mat-Su Valley, many homeowners prefer more independence and fewer restrictions.But that’s starting to shift. As Anchorage, the Valley, and the Kenai continue to grow, more developments rely on HOAs to manage shared infrastructure and keep communities running smoothly. The Risks You Don’t Want to Miss One of the biggest concerns we talked about is self managed HOAs. They may seem like a way to save money, but they often create more problems than they solve.Without professional management, finances, maintenance, and conflict resolution can quickly become overwhelming.Then there’s Alaska’s weather. Snow, ice, and extreme cold put pressure on roads, roofs, and shared systems, which makes proper management even more important. What I Want You to Look At Before You Buy If you’re thinking about buying into an HOA, take the time to review everything. Read the governing documents. Look through meeting minutes, not just the annual ones. Pay close attention to the financial reserves.A well funded HOA can handle repairs without putting extra stress on homeowners. An underfunded one can lead to surprise costs and even affect your ability to secure certain types of loans.HOAs can either support your investment or create unnecessary stress. The difference comes down to how they’re managed and how much you understand before you commit. “The purpose of an HOA is simple. It keeps standards in place to protect value and maintain quality of life.” — Steve Bergin “From an investor’s perspective, having an HOA brings a level of peace of mind you really can’t overlook.” — Thomas Moore Resources If you have questions or just want to chat, feel free to email us at podcast@bhhsalaska.com. Connie Yoshimura number: 907-229-2703 Lottie Michael Number: 907-242-7603 Sponsorship This episode is brought to you in part by Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Alaska Realty. Transform your real estate journey with expert guidance. Check out their services: https://www.bhhsalaska.com/ Credits ©2025 Alaska Real Estate Podcast. All rights reserved. Music by SoundStripe

    39 min
  6. Connie, Lottie and Guest Speaker: The Honorable Mark Begich (Former Senator)

    Apr 29

    Connie, Lottie and Guest Speaker: The Honorable Mark Begich (Former Senator)

    Lottie and I wanted to re-share this episode featuring Mark Begich, an Alaskan politician and former U.S. senator. In this conversation, Mark shares his vision for improving downtown Anchorage, along with insights into what’s impacting the housing market and the challenges facing homeownership in Alaska today. Meet Mark Begich Born in Anchorage, Mark Begich is the first U.S. senator native to the state of Alaska. He previously served as Mayor of Anchorage from 2003 to 2009 and as a U.S. Senator from 2009 to 2015, representing Alaska as a Democrat.With prior experience on the Anchorage Assembly and numerous boards, Mark brings a strong business-minded approach to public service, with a focus on resource management, energy, and community development. Downtown Anchorage: Past, Present, and Potential The heart of downtown Anchorage isn’t where it should be, and Mark agrees. He reflects on his hotel redevelopment project during the pandemic and the positive impact it had on the surrounding community.A city is often judged by its downtown, not just its residential suburbs. When downtown feels inactive or neglected, people are less likely to want to live or invest in the area.Mark shares why Anchorage and its surrounding neighborhoods need bold investments, improved walkability, and a higher overall quality of life. Challenges and Opportunities: Housing, Taxes, and Policy Anchorage is currently experiencing a population decline among residents ages 30 to 55, while the population of those 55 and older continues to grow. This shift is partly due to baby boomers returning to be closer to family and to take advantage of tax benefits.One of the biggest challenges facing younger residents is housing affordability. Rising costs are making it increasingly difficult to live in Anchorage.We break down current tax abatement policies and make the case for incentivizing owner-occupied housing, not just rental development. We also discuss the potential benefits of a seasonal sales tax as a way to diversify Anchorage’s revenue while capturing tourist spending. Looking Forward Mark reflects on public service, the importance of community engagement, and what Anchorage needs to thrive in the next decade. This includes collaborative investments, education reform, and a downtown that draws both young professionals and retirees.Despite current challenges, he shares his optimism for Anchorage. If everyone does their part, growth and vibrancy can follow. “What do you want to do? Do you want to wait for something to happen that may not be in your interest as a community, or do you want to engage and figure it out? You don’t get to sit on the sidelines and hope it all works. That’s not how it works.” — Mark Begich Timestamps 00:01:16 – 00:01:57: From Family Roots to Alaska Entrepreneurship 00:05:04 – 00:05:48: Launching Northern Compass Group 00:10:09 – 00:10:49: Redeveloping a Downtown Hotel During COVID 00:13:44 – 00:14:04: Building a Modern Winter City 00:16:08 – 00:16:18: An Honest Assessment of Downtown Anchorage 00:19:49 – 00:20:08: Tax Policy and Owner-Occupied Housing 00:34:17 – 00:34:58: Optimism for Anchorage’s Next Decade Sponsorship This episode is brought to you in part by Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Alaska Realty. Transform your real estate journey with expert guidance. Check out their services: https://www.bhhsalaska.com/ Credits ©2025 Alaska Real Estate Podcast. All rights reserved. Music by SoundStripe

    39 min
  7. What Make A Great Real Estate Agent?

    Apr 22

    What Make A Great Real Estate Agent?

    What does it take to be a successful realtor and build a lasting career in real estate? Lottie and I have been doing this for years, and we both agree it comes down to discipline, consistency, and grit. We’re sharing our perspective on what it really takes to stay in this industry. The Traits of a Successful Realtor If you’re thinking about getting into real estate, it’s not just about knowledge. You need curiosity, strong communication skills, and a lot of self-discipline.You’re working for yourself, which means no one is telling you when to show up or what to do. That structure has to come from you.You also need to be able to read people. Understanding what a client wants and matching them with the right property is a big part of this business. Why Real Estate Isn’t for Everyone I’ll be honest with you. Real estate offers a lot of freedom, but it also requires long hours and consistency.If your goal is to make a certain income, you’re not going to get there working a standard 40-hour week, especially in the beginning. There is no guaranteed paycheck, so you have to stay motivated and keep building your pipeline. Training, Mentorship, and Learning the Market Everyone learns differently, so there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach to training. When I work with new agents, I focus on what they need and help them build from there.That means getting out there, meeting people, hosting open houses, and learning the inventory. You have to see the market for yourself. Residential vs. Commercial Real Estate Residential real estate can be easier to get into, but commercial real estate is a different level.It requires more research, more knowledge of the market, and a deeper understanding of things like zoning, financing, and trends. It’s not just about listings. You need to know the market inside and out. Real Estate Is Built Over Time Real estate has given me a lifestyle I wouldn’t have had otherwise. But it didn’t happen overnight.If you’re willing to put in the time, stay disciplined, and keep learning, there is a real opportunity here for you. “Energy and knowledge matter in commercial real estate. When I evaluate a property, I often know more about it than the seller, and that’s what clients value.” — Lottie Michael “Appearance matters. It doesn’t have to be expensive, but it should be clean and respectful.” — Connie Yoshimura Resources If you have questions or just want to chat, feel free to email us at podcast@bhhsalaska.com. Connie Yoshimura number: 907-229-2703 Lottie Michael Number: 907-242-7603 Sponsorship This episode is brought to you in part by Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Alaska Realty. Transform your real estate journey with expert guidance. Check out their services: https://www.bhhsalaska.com/ Credits ©2025 Alaska Real Estate Podcast. All rights reserved. Music by SoundStripe

    31 min
  8. Before You Sign That Lease… Listen to This

    Apr 15

    Before You Sign That Lease… Listen to This

    I just did something way out of my league. I signed a commercial lease, and stepping into this side of real estate opened up a lot of questions. Lottie Michael is here to walk through what comes next and what every agent should understand after signing one. Leases 101: Common Terms and Key Components When you step into new territory as a realtor, there are details that don’t always get explained upfront. I’m just now learning what CAM is, something I didn’t fully understand until I started looking for office space.CAM stands for common area maintenance. Lottie explains that it’s more commonly used in retail properties and not typically applied to office space in Anchorage.She also walks through the key components every commercial lease should include, such as identifying the premises, outlining the lease term, and clearly defining the rent structure. Security Deposits and Responsibilities Lottie breaks down how security deposits should be handled. Landlords are expected to place those funds into a trusted account and only access them for their intended use. Measuring Space & Lease Rates There are different methodologies used to measure office space and depends on what type of commercial space and class that will be used.Lottie also shares the meaning of full floor leases and what tenants often pay for. Usually, they will pay for all of the space except elevator shafts and stairwells.She goes over the market overview of commercial lease rates, stating that class A office rates typically range between $2.80–$3.50 per square foot per month. Lease Structures and Expenses Not all leases are structured the same, and the differences can have a real impact on your bottom line. Lottie goes over two of the most common types: full service and triple net.Lottie also explains how CAM and other pass-through expenses factor in. If you occupy a percentage of a building, you’re typically responsible for that same share of expenses. Why Working With the Right Expert Matters Stepping into commercial real estate without the right guidance can get expensive fast. I learned that firsthand. What looks straightforward on the surface often comes with details that are easy to miss but costly to fix later.That’s why Lottie emphasizes working with a commercial real estate expert. It’s similar to hiring a specialist. You want someone who understands the fine print and knows how to negotiate terms that protect you. “Insurance is something you hope you never use, but you have to have. And when it comes to liability, not everything falls on the landlord.” — Lottie Michael Resource If you have questions or just want to chat, feel free to email us at podcast@bhhsalaska.com. Connie Yoshimura number: 907-229-2703 Lottie Michael Number: 907-242-7603 Sponsorship This episode is brought to you in part by Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Alaska Realty. Transform your real estate journey with expert guidance. Check out their services: https://www.bhhsalaska.com/ Credits ©2025 Alaska Real Estate Podcast. All rights reserved. Music by SoundStripe

    26 min
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About

Discover the latest insights, trends, and stories shaping Alaska’s unique real estate market. Join hosts Connie & Lottie as they guide you through buying, selling, and investing across the Last Frontier.

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  • Creator
    Alaska Real Estate Podcast
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    35
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Alaska Real Estate Podcast
  • Show Website
    Alaska Real Estate Podcast