When looking to invest in real estate, information garnered from Alaska multiple listing services (MLS) is crucial to making a good decision. Whether you are in the market for buying or selling, working with a realtor to access MLS can put you ahead of other investors trying to haggle a deal on their own.

Alaska MLS are considered effective databases in which members are professional real estate agents. The result of setting up an MLS has led to more information flowing to serious buyers, resulting in more productive transactions. It also provides wider exposure to connect potential buyers with available properties.

Consider the following MLS information:

1. While anyone can access a residential property listing in Alaska, an experienced realtor can more readily gain access to, read and interpret an MLS report.

2. Consumers can perform an Alaska MLS search for a flat fee; however, a member realtor has access to an MLS already and is charging you, typically, 6% to 7% anyway.

3. On a public site, Alaska home listings may not include the seller's information. However, that information would be accessible through an MLS.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Search Alaska residential listings

Although potential buyers can't access MLS listings directly without paying a fee, properties can be found through many different search engines online. Although the information in these listings isn't as comprehensive as that included in the MLS, users can start to research available properties for sale.

I recommend: Search residential listings through public sites like Meyeres Real Estate, or enter specific search criteria via the Virtual Agent Network.

Work with a realtor to view residential property listings in AK

MLS listings are only granted to qualified realtors and include more accurate and up-to-date information than online consumer-accessible listings. MLS provides data such as age of the home, square footage, recent upgrades to the property and even information on nearby school districts and financing.

I recommend: Find a real estate agent to fit your needs through the realtor wizard at HomeGain.com or search at Alaska Multiple Listing Service.

Investigate Alaska real estate trends and market conditions

With investments, timing is everything. It is no different when you consider real estate investments. Before jumping into a sale, find out more about the market in the area and the real estate trends. You may find that waiting even a few months can swing the selling price or financing offer in your favor.

I recommend: Realty Times and HouseHunt provide market conditions reports by area.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  By analyzing the residential property listings in Alaska and getting reliable market information, you'll be able to see the availability of certain types of properties and in certain price ranges so you can better plan your level of investment.