In the last few weeks I have been involved in several real estate purchase and sale negotiations.  A significant issue that arose in two of these negotiations was financing.

Financing has always been important in real estate purchase and sale negotiations; however, it has taken on new importance given the current concerns in the mortgage lending industry.  Sellers, rightfully so, want to make sure that if they accept an offer and take their home off the market that the purchase and sale will actually close.  This is particularly so in a balanced market such as ours where Sellers don't have nearly as strong of an advantage as they did just a couple of years ago.

Believe it or not, the Girdwood market is still seeing brisk activity in certain segments.  The condominium market has been tight all year due to a lack of inventory; I've seen several instances of short marketing times and multiple offers.  Properly priced homes under $350,000 are still selling very quickly; again, I've seen several instances of short marketing times and multiple offers.

If you truly want to buy, be prepared and be prepared to move quickly.

So, as a Buyer how do you get prepared in terms of financing?

Get pre-approved with a reputable in state mortgage lender.  Our preferred lender is Alice Roe of U. S. Bank Home Mortgage.  Alice is a Regional Manager with U. S. Bank Home Mortgage and a Certified Mortgage Planning Specialist.  Feel free to visit Alice's website at www.aliceroe.com .  Although Alice lives in Scottsdale, Arizona, she maintains an office in Alaska, travels here several times a year, and does 98% of her business in Alaska (including several loans a year in Girdwood).

I am happy to supply references for several other high quality mortgage lenders with whom we frequently conduct business.

There is another great local article coming up in Powder Magazine.  Look for an article in the October issue about Chugach Powder Guides' new Tordrilllo Lodge.  Although I have never been to this particular lodge, I can vouch for the terrain.  Incredible!  The snow is getting lower and we're just a few short weeks away.....

Have a great weekend.