Valentine’s, Groundhog & Presidents Day Plus a Big Mat-Su Home Update from Dave & Travis!

by David Johnson

Happy Valentine’s Day and with Groundhog Day and Presidents Day all wrapped into February, it’s a good reminder that spring (and change) is never far away here in Alaska.

Along with the holidays, there’s also something important happening in the Mat-Su Borough that we want to make sure homeowners are aware of.

Recently, the Mat-Su Borough mailed out annual property assessment notices. According to Alaska Public Media and the Mat-Su Sentinel, average residential values are up around 7–8%, with land values seeing even larger increases as the borough updates assessments to better match current market conditions. 
 
These assessed values are what will later be used to calculate property taxes and yes, higher values can mean higher tax bills. 
 
 
 
Because of this, Travis and I have been checking property values for quite a few homeowners who reached out asking, “Is this increase really warranted?” In some cases it is. In others, we’ve found discrepancies worth questioning.

Here’s the good news: you don’t have to automatically accept your assessed value.
The borough encourages homeowners to:
  • Review their assessment notice carefully
  • Compare it to similar nearby properties
  • Call the Mat-Su Assessor’s Office first, many issues can be resolved informally
  • If needed, file a formal appeal that goes before the Board of Equalization

According to published guidance, the appeal deadline is late February (typically around February 27), so if you’re thinking about questioning your value, time matters. 
 
Source: 
 
If you’re unsure whether your increase makes sense, or you just want a second set of eyes on it, we’re happy to help walk you through it. Even if it’s simply peace of mind, we’d rather you understand what’s happening than be surprised later. 

As always, if you have questions about your home’s value, the local market, or what all of this means for you, just reply to this email or call/text anytime.
 
Stay warm, enjoy the holidays, and we’ll see you soon. 
 

 

 
Quick Mortgage Rate Snapshot , Good News for Buyers!
 
Also worth noting: national mortgage interest rates have eased compared with this time last year. According to data from Freddie Mac, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate in early February 2026 is holding in the low-6% range (around ~6.1%) ,which is about a full percentage point lower than the ~6.9% average seen this time last year. That drop can help lower your monthly payment or increase what you can afford if you’re thinking about buying or refinancing.
 
What does that mean for you?
  •  Lower monthly payments on the same home price
  • More buying power you may qualify for a higher-priced home with the same budget
  • Better refinance opportunities for homeowners who bought or refinanced at higher rates last year
  • Less pressure to “wait it out” rates are already moving in a more favorable direction
When combined with rising home values, this shift in rates is why many buyers and homeowners are re-running the numbers right now. In some cases, today’s rates can make a meaningful difference in monthly costs even if prices haven’t come down. 

If you’re curious what today’s rates could mean specifically for you, we’re happy to help you walk through the numbers or connect you with a trusted local lender. 

 

Valentine’s week is here, and there’s a lot happening around town if you’re looking for something fun to do with family, friends, or that special someone. Whether you’re staying close to home or heading into Anchorage for the evening, there are some great local events worth checking out.
 
Wasilla / Mat-Su Valley Events
 
Galentine’s Day Party — Wasilla
Valentine’s Special at Meier Lake (near Wasilla)
Other Local Valentine’s Day Ideas (from listings)
(Note: times/confirmation vary; check ahead with local organizers)
  • Valentine’s Date Night — 780 N. Luke St., Wasilla.
  •  Bond with Me – Bake & Decorate Cookie Cake — Curtis D. Menard Memorial Sports Center.
  • Valentine’s Day @ Ken’s / Market & Meet BLUEY Event — 4121 Dimond Way.
  • Kids Valentine Fun Shoot — Screaming Eagle Archery of Alaska.
  • (Info compiled from local event listings, not all have official times yet)
  • https://allevents.in/wasilla/valentines-day 
 
Palmer Area Activity
 
Valentine’s Pop-Ups and Pre-Day Events
(Many events occur around Valentine’s weekend — check local venues for exact time/confirmation)
  • Valentine’s Pop-Up with How Sweet AK — 101 W Arctic Ave, Palmer (Friday, Feb 13).
  •  Valentine’s Cozy Skin Night — personal care event (Friday, Feb 13).
  • Valentine’s Ballroom Bash — Four Corners Lounge (Friday, Feb 13).
  • (Specific Palmer events on Feb 14 are limited in listings, but nearby Mat-Su / Anchorage options are available)
  •  https://allevents.in/palmer-ak/valentines-day
Anchorage Events & Valentine’s Activities
 
Date Night 2026
Heated Rivalry Dance Party
Sweetheart Skate (Outdoor Fun)
Other Anchorage Valentine’s Options
(From local event calendars — check for updated times)
  • Valentine’s Day Stained Glass Class — creative workshop in Anchorage.
  • Valentine’s Day Dinner @ O’Malley’s — romance-themed dinner event.
  • Variety of small parties, plays, and themed dance nights listed locally (e.g., “Valentine’s Day Candle Making,” children’s events, Prom 1988 dance, etc.).
  •  https://allevents.in/anchorage/valentines-day
If you’re thinking about buying, selling, or building or just want to talk through the numbers Travis and I are always happy to help.
 
Whether you're buying, selling, or just planning ahead, now’s a great time to chat about your options — I’m here if you need a strategy that fits your goals!
 

LET US BE YOUR TRUSTED GUIDE

Call or text Dave now at 907-863-7289
Call or text Travis now at 907-575-6779

davesalaskahomes@gmail.com

http://www.DavesAlaskaHomes. com

David Johnson

David Johnson

Broker Associate | License ID: 15839

+1(907) 863-7289

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