Top 5 Markets for Alaska Real Estate Investors in 2024

Real estate investors from all corners of the country are flocking to Alaska in pursuit of investment properties to bolster their rental portfolios. The Last Frontier has emerged as a top choice among real estate investors, owing to a multitude of factors such as a robust economy, affordable property prices, and consistently stable rental rates. Easy Street Capital takes great pride in being at the forefront of facilitating investment property loans for discerning investors seeking to establish and expand their real estate portfolios in Alaska!

 

Investment Property Loan Types for Alaska Real Estate Investors

 

When it comes to real estate investing in Alaska there are good markets and many different types of investment property loans to choose from. Furthermore, each year around 2.25 million people visit Alaska. With the frequent snowfall and rugged elements, there are good properties in need of renovations. For investors adept at rehabbing properties, hard money renovation loans are a perfect choice!   These loans allow you to buy a property quickly and finance your rehab costs as well!  Once you are done, you can either “flip” the property for a quick profit or pursue the BRRRR Strategy by renting it out and then refinancing into a long-term, low-rate DSCR loan!

 

EasyFix                     EasyRent

 

Long-term DSCR Loans are also great for investing in turnkey rental properties.  Turnkey refers to properties that are rent-ready and require no renovations.  Move-in ready single-family homes and fully furnished short term or medium-term rentals are great for cash flow and price appreciation.  Most DSCR Loans are fixed rate for thirty years, locking you into a fixed interest rate for the long-term. While, if historical patterns continue, rents and appreciation increase steadily each year.  Bottom line, debt costs stay the same while cash flow increases!

 

Real estate investors in Alaska are pleased to find a market that does not impose prepayment penalties, offering them the flexibility to refinance without financial restrictions. While some lenders may adjust interest rates slightly higher to accommodate this flexibility, the freedom to refinance remains a significant advantage for investors.

 

Where To Invest In Real Estate In Alaska

 

Alaska presents an extraordinary array of captivating real estate investment opportunities within its distinct and unparalleled markets. With its breathtaking landscapes, untamed wilderness, and vibrant communities, Alaska stands as an enticing destination for savvy investors seeking diversity and potential in their portfolios. Anchorage, the largest city in the state, provides a dynamic market with various strategies to explore. Fairbanks, known as the “Golden Heart City,” boasts a strong economy and proximity to natural attractions. Furthermore, Juneau, the capital city, combines government presence and tourism, creating a stable real estate landscape. Sitka, with its picturesque coastal beauty and rich history, offers potential for investors. Lastly, Cooper Landing, a hidden gem, presents opportunities for short-term and vacation rental investors with its stunning location along the Kenai River.

 

 

Anchorage

 

Anchorage, the largest city in Alaska, boasts a population of over 290,000 people. It offers a diversified economy with a strong presence in sectors such as oil and gas, tourism, and government. The city is home to major companies like BP Alaska and ConocoPhillips, providing a stable employment base and creating demand for rental properties. Anchorage is also home to the University of Alaska Anchorage, attracting students and young professionals in need of housing.

 

The thriving economy and diverse population make Anchorage an attractive market for real estate investors. Anchorage also benefits from its natural beauty, with attractions such as Chugach State Park and the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail. Visitors come for outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing, creating a potential market for short-term rental properties. TripAdvisor ranks Moose’s Tooth Pub and Pizzeria in this city as the third-best pizza place in the entire United States, highlighting its exceptional reputation for delicious pizza. Tourists come to see the beauty of Anchorage whether that be stopping by on a cruise or a weekend vacation hiking the stunning mountains.

 

Additionally, Anchorage hosts cultural events and festivals throughout the year, including the Fur Rendezvous winter festival and the Alaska State Fair. These events draw visitors and add to the demand for short-term rentals. Based on Zillow data, investing in properties in this city has the potential to yield approximately $1,800 in monthly earnings for investors. Overall, Anchorage’s strong economy, diverse population, and natural attractions make it an enticing market for real estate investors looking to invest in single-family and multifamily properties.

 

 

Fairbanks

 

Fairbanks, located in the heart of Alaska, offers a unique real estate investment opportunity. With a population of over 30,000 residents, Fairbanks is very sizable city in the state. The city’s diverse economy is supported by industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, and transportation.

 

Fairbanks is known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor recreational activities. Visitors and residents alike can enjoy exploring attractions such as the Denali National Park, Chena Hot Springs, and the Northern Lights. The city also hosts cultural events and festivals throughout the year, including the Midnight Sun Festival and the World Eskimo-Indian Olympics.

 

Real estate investors can find affordable investment opportunities in Fairbanks, with the median sales price for a single-family home in February 2023 at $294,000 according to Realtor.com. In addition, Zillow reports that the average market rent in Green Bay in February 2023 was $1,700 per month, making it a lucrative market for rental properties. By utilizing rental loans with low down payment options, investors can seize the opportunity to generate significant cash flow and potentially achieve impressive cash-on-cash returns. The thriving market presents a favorable environment for real estate investors to capitalize on its growth and attain robust returns on their investments. 

 

 

Juneau

 

Juneau, Alaska, is the capital city of the state and offers a unique market for real estate investors. With a population of around 32,000 residents, Juneau is a vibrant community nestled amidst stunning natural beauty and surrounded by mountains, glaciers, and waterways. Juneau’s economy thrives on its robust fishing industry, renowned for its abundant seafood harvests. The city’s picturesque coastal setting and vibrant marine life attract tourists from around the world, creating a high demand for short-term rental properties. Additionally, the hardworking individuals in the fishing industry, often seek medium-term rentals for their temporary housing needs.

 

 The city’s diverse cultural scene, including art galleries, theaters, and music festivals, adds to its appeal and creates potential for short-term rental investments.

 

Moreover, Juneau hosts events like the Alaska Folk Festival, Juneau Jazz and Classics Festival, and the Gold Rush Days. These draw visitors from near and far, generating demand for short-term rentals and vacation properties. With its breathtaking landscapes, outdoor recreational opportunities, and cultural offerings, Juneau presents an enticing market for real estate investors seeking a unique investment opportunity in Alaska.

 

 

Sitka

 

Sitka, nestled in the scenic landscapes of Alaska, is a vibrant city with a population of over 8,000 residents. Known for its breathtaking natural beauty and abundant outdoor activities, Sitka attracts nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers year-round. Surrounded by stunning landmarks, including majestic mountains and pristine waters, Sitka offers a unique blend of wilderness and coastal charm.

 

Real estate investors can discover a range of investment opportunities in Sitka. The city offers diverse housing options, with a mix of single-family homes and waterfront properties. Per Zillow, the rental market in Sitka is thriving, with a median market rent of $2,100 per month. With its picturesque setting and vibrant tourism industry, Sitka presents a promising market for investors looking to capitalize on the demand for rental properties.

 

In addition to its natural allure, Sitka boasts a rich cultural heritage. The city is home to historical sites, such as the Sitka National Historical Park and the Russian Bishop’s House, offering residents and visitors a glimpse into its fascinating past. Annual events like the Sitka Summer Music Festival and the Sitka Seafood Festival contribute to the city’s vibrant cultural scene, attracting tourists and generating opportunities for short-term rental income.

 

Sitka’s location on Baranof Island provides ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, including fishing, kayaking, and wildlife watching. Residents and visitors alike can explore the pristine forests and pristine coastline, immersing themselves in the beauty of the Alaskan wilderness. The city’s small-town charm and close-knit community create a welcoming atmosphere for both locals and newcomers.

 

 

Cooper Landing

 

Cooper Landing, in southern Alaska, is an insanely stunning destination located in the heart of nature’s true beauty. Surrounded by majestic mountains, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife, it offers a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

 

Cooper Landing’s idyllic setting makes it an appealing location for short-term rental investors. Visitors flock to the area for activities such as fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing, creating a steady demand for vacation rentals throughout the year. The town’s proximity to the Kenai River, renowned for its salmon fishing, adds to its allure. Furthermore, Cooper Landing hosts events like the Kenai River Festival, where locals and visitors come together to celebrate the area’s natural resources and cultural heritage. These events attract tourists and provide an opportunity for investors to capitalize on short-term rental demand and generate attractive rental income.

 

AirDNA, the leading data provider for investors in short term rentals, gives Cooper Landing a Market Grade of B-, including an 80/100 for “rental demand”, and an average occupancy rate of 87% making it one of the best places to invest in short term rental properties.  Per AirDNA, investors can expect annual revenue of $62,400! Investors who leverage DSCR loans from innovative lenders like Easy Street Capital, which consider the property’s income based on AirDNA projections, can potentially maximize their cash flow in Cooper Landing, Alaska.

 

With its breathtaking landscapes and outdoor recreational opportunities, Cooper Landing offers an exceptional investment opportunity for those looking to invest in the Alaskan real estate market.

 

Ready to Get Started?

 

Ready to invest in real estate in Alaska?  Easy Street Capital is Alaska’s best provider of loans for rental properties for both hard money rehabs and long-term rental properties.

 

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