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Tax Advantages for Investing in Commercial Real Estate in Alaska
Commercial real estate has long been one of the most tax-advantaged investment strategies in the United States. In Alaska, those advantages can be even more meaningful thanks to the state’s tax structure, strategic industries, and opportunities for long-term property appreciation. As we move through 2026, investors who understand how to leverage these tax benefits can significantly improve their returns while building long-term wealth. Whether you're purchasing a warehouse, r

Jenny Willardson, CCIM
44 minutes ago4 min read


Your 2026 Property Tax Assessment Just Arrived — Here's What Commercial Property Owners in Alaska Need to Know
Shocked by your 2026 property tax assessment? Here are tips for appealing and reducing your tax bill for Anchorage and Mat-Su commercial real estate owners.

Jenny Willardson, CCIM
Feb 76 min read


The Most Expensive CRE Mistake? Trying to Do It All Yourself
In commercial real estate, fees are easy to see. Hidden costs are not. Many property owners—especially those new to commercial real estate or expanding their portfolios—ask a fair question: “Why should I pay a professional when I can handle parts of this myself?” The short answer? Because the true cost of going it alone is rarely measured in dollars alone. It’s measured in time, missed opportunities, costly missteps, and decisions made without the benefit of experience or mar

Jenny Willardson, CCIM
Jan 313 min read


Why ChatGPT Isn’t a Substitute for a Commercial Lease Advisor
Artificial intelligence is changing how businesses operate. Tools like ChatGPT can draft emails, summarize documents, and even explain basic lease terms. For busy business owners, that can feel like a shortcut—especially when facing a commercial lease negotiation. But when it comes to negotiating one of the most financially impactful contracts your business will ever sign, shortcuts can be costly. So if it's so powerful, why can't we use artificial intelligence to negotiate

Jenny Willardson, CCIM
Jan 263 min read


Why Now Is the Best Time to Negotiate a Commercial Lease in Alaska
As we move deeper into the final quarter of 2025, commercial leasing trends in Alaska are showing some market cooling—particularly in the leasing sector. October brought a noticeable slowdown in activity, and with the holiday months approaching (typically the quietest time of year for new leases), both landlords and tenants are adjusting their strategies. For tenants considering a new lease or renewal, this cooling period could actually present a golden opportunity in tenant

Jenny Willardson, CCIM
Nov 1, 20253 min read


Q4 Might Be the Best Time to Buy Commercial Real Estate in Alaska
Looking to buy commercial real estate in Alaska? Q4 might be a great time for opportunities. As the year winds down, many investors shift their focus toward wrapping up deals, balancing books, and preparing for the new year. But for savvy commercial real estate investors, the fourth quarter (Q4) may actually present one of the best opportunities to purchase new assets. Whether you’re new to commercial real estate investing or expanding your portfolio, Q4 offers unique advanta

Jenny Willardson, CCIM
Sep 30, 20252 min read


How Oil, Transportation, and Tourism Shape Alaska's CRE Market
Tourism plays an important role in Alaska's economy, and contributes in shaping the local commercial real estate market. Alaska’s commercial real estate market is closely tied to three powerful economic engines: oil and gas, transportation and logistics, and tourism. In 2025, each of these sectors is fueling demand across property types and reshaping the investment landscape. Oil and Gas Industry Impact Oil remains the backbone of Alaska’s economy. North Slope production is r

Jenny Willardson, CCIM
Sep 22, 20252 min read


Alaska’s Unique Commercial Real Estate Landscape in 2025
Alaska’s commercial real estate (CRE) market is unlike any other in the United States. Shaped by its vast geography, resource-driven economy, and role as a strategic hub between continents, the state’s CRE dynamics in 2025 tell a story of resilience and cautious optimism. Alaska’s Distinctive CRE Landscape Unlike larger metropolitan areas where population growth and corporate relocations drive demand, Alaska’s commercial real estate market is more closely tied to natural reso

Jenny Willardson, CCIM
Sep 12, 20253 min read


Why a CCIM Could Be Your Best Advantage in Commercial Real Estate
Who you choose to represent you MATTERS; choose confidently by choosing a CCIM. When it comes to commercial real estate, experience matters—but so does specialized expertise. That’s where a Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM) designation sets professionals apart. A CCIM isn’t just another credential—it’s widely recognized as the “gold standard” for commercial real estate education and investment analysis. I’m proud to share some exciting news: after working closely

Jenny Willardson, CCIM
Sep 2, 20253 min read


Alaska’s Commercial Lease Market: Cautious Optimism in Q3
As we move into the second half of 2025, Alaska’s commercial leasing market is showing a noticeable shift. We felt leasing activity begin to cool at the start of Q2, with tenants and investors pulling back slightly. Now, as we enter Q3, there are signs of cautious optimism returning. At Elevate Commercial, we monitor both national and local market dynamics to help our clients make informed decisions. Here’s how national trends are playing out in Alaska. National Leasing Tren

Jenny Willardson, CCIM
Aug 26, 20252 min read


The CRE Maturity Wall Is Coming—Here’s What It Means for Alaska’s Commercial Real Estate Market
The national commercial real estate (CRE) market is facing a tidal shift known as the "Maturity Wall"—a looming wave of commercial debt maturities set to reshape the market landscape. While most media headlines focus on major urban centers like New York or Los Angeles, this trend holds significant implications for local and regional markets, including right here in Alaska. For property owners, investors, and occupiers, understanding the CRE maturity wall isn’t just smart—it’s

Jenny Willardson, CCIM
Aug 19, 20253 min read


Never Miss a Critical Date: A Landlord’s Guide to Effective Lease Administration
Simplify lease management with this essential guide for landlords, ensuring no critical date is overlooked. As a commercial landlord, your property's success hinges on efficient lease administration. Among the many responsibilities, tracking critical lease dates—such as rent escalations, renewals, expirations, and compliance deadlines—is essential yet often overlooked. Missing these dates can lead to lost revenue, legal complications, and strained tenant relationships. Why Tr

Jenny Willardson, CCIM
Jul 8, 20252 min read


Innovation Isn't Optional: What Blockbuster Forgot
“What’s Blockbuster?” I was talking with my kids the other night about how we used to go to Blockbuster on Friday to decide what movie we...

Jenny Willardson, CCIM
Jun 30, 20253 min read


Why NNN Leases Might Be the Right Fit for Landlords—and How to Simplify Management
Why NNN Leases Might Be the Right Fit for Landlords—and How to Simplify Management For landlords seeking consistent income with fewer day-to-day responsibilities, a triple net lease—commonly known as a NNN lease—can be a highly effective structure. It offers a balanced mix of stability, reduced landlord involvement, and attractive long-term returns, especially when paired with professional lease administration services. What Is a NNN Lease? In a NNN lease, tenants agree to pa

Jenny Willardson, CCIM
Jun 23, 20253 min read


Top 5 Common Pitfalls for Commercial Landlords and How to Avoid Them
Owning commercial property can be one of the most rewarding investments in Alaska's growing market—but it isn’t without its challenges. Many landlords enter the space with a strong property, great tenants, and high hopes, only to run into costly issues that could have been avoided with a little more preparation. From legal missteps to poor communication, the pitfalls can add up quickly and eat away at your returns. Whether you’re a seasoned property owner or new to the commer

Jenny Willardson, CCIM
Jun 7, 20253 min read


Why the Mat-Su Valley Is One of Alaska’s Fastest-Growing Commercial Hubs
Alaska is known for its vast landscapes and rugged independence—but in the heart of the state, the Mat-Su Valley is carving out a name for itself as a thriving center for commercial growth. Fueled by population increases, quality of life, and a pro-business mindset, the Valley is quickly becoming a hotspot for real estate investors and business owners alike. In this blog, we’ll explore the five key reasons why the Mat-Su Valley is emerging as Alaska’s next major commercial hu

Jenny Willardson, CCIM
Jun 4, 20252 min read


What Every Small Business Owner Should Know Before Signing a Commercial Lease in Alaska
Signing a commercial lease in Alaska isn't as straightforward as signing a residential lease. In fact, it's one of the most overlooked yet critical steps in a business’s early growth. Whether you're opening a new location in Wasilla, relocating your office to Palmer, or securing warehouse space near the Parks Highway, understanding the ins and outs of a commercial lease can save you tens of thousands of dollars—and a lot of stress. As a broker who’s worked with countless smal

Jenny Willardson, CCIM
Jun 2, 20253 min read


Should You Lease or Buy Commercial Space in Alaska? A Local Broker’s Take
A local brokers take on if you should lease or buy commercial real estate in Alaska.

Jenny Willardson, CCIM
Jun 2, 20253 min read


Top 3 Commercial Property Investment Opportunities in the Mat-Su Valley (2025 Edition)
Looking to grow your portfolio or launch your next business venture in Alaska? The Mat-Su Valley continues to emerge as one of the state’s most promising regions for commercial real estate investment. With population growth, increased infrastructure spending, and a rising demand for local goods and services, opportunities are ripe for both seasoned investors and first-time buyers. Here are three standout investment opportunities in the Mat-Su commercial real estate market for

Jenny Willardson, CCIM
Jun 2, 20252 min read
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