Real Estate Information Archive

Home staging is a crucial aspect of the selling process, as it leaves a lasting impression on potential Albuquerque home buyers. Homeowners often worry about the expenses involved in staging their homes, but there are several cost-effective strategies that can help maximize the impact of their staging efforts. These include DIY projects, repurposing existing items, and prioritizing key areas. By implementing these budget-friendly tips and tricks, homeowners can stage their homes without depleting their resources before making a sale.

Embrace DIY Projects

Staging your home on a budget can be achieved through do-it-yourself projects like painting, refinishing furniture, and creating artwork. A fresh coat of neutral-colored paint can instantly refresh a room, while new hardware and a fresh finish can give an old dresser a modern look. By taking on these projects yourself, you can save money and still achieve a professionally staged appearance.

Repurpose and Rearrange Existing Items

To stage your home on a budget, start by taking inventory of your furniture, accessories, and decorative pieces. Consider repurposing items to create a more appealing space. For example, move a decorative mirror from the bedroom to the living room to make the space appear larger and brighter. Use decorative pillows from the guest room to add color and texture to your living room couch. Get creative with your existing items to save money and give your home a fresh, new look.

Prioritize Key Areas

When staging a home on a budget, prioritizing key areas is crucial. The living room, kitchen, and master bedroom are the most important spaces as buyers spend the most time there. To make these rooms inviting and functional, decluttering, rearranging furniture, and adding strategic accessories are essential.

To make the living room comfortable and encourage conversation, arrange the seating accordingly. In the kitchen, clear the countertops of unnecessary items and highlight the ample storage space available. In the master bedroom, create a calming and inviting atmosphere by using cozy bedding and minimizing distractions.

Rent or Borrow Furniture and Accessories

If your current furniture and accessories are not enough for staging your home, renting or borrowing items is a good option. Home staging companies offer rental services for furniture and accessories at a lower cost than buying new ones. You can also ask your friends or family if they have anything you could borrow for a short period.

Incorporate Affordable Accessories

When it comes to home staging, small and affordable accessories can have a significant impact. Fresh flowers, decorative throw pillows, and stylish area rugs are just a few examples of items that can instantly elevate a room's appearance without breaking the bank. Look for budget-friendly options at discount stores, online retailers, or even local thrift shops to achieve a polished look without spending a fortune.

Staging your home on a budget is possible without compromising quality or style. You can achieve this by using DIY projects, repurposing existing items, prioritizing key areas, renting or borrowing furniture, and incorporating affordable accessories. These cost-effective strategies can help you create a beautiful and inviting space that appeals to potential buyers. By maximizing the impact of your home staging efforts while minimizing your investment, you can achieve a successful and profitable sale.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

Learn More!

Looking for the perfect home for sale in Albuquerque? Our easy-to-use home search tool can help you start the process. Join us twice a week on our blog for more real estate advice and great reasons to buy a home in Albuquerque and the surrounding area. Follow us on Facebook for the latest Albuquerque real estate updates.

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

If you're in the market for the perfect home for sale in Rio Rancho or Albuquerque, here are two HOT listings ready for your inspection. These homes offer outstanding ammenities and prime locations in the Albuquerque area.

Contact the Sandi Pressley Team today for your exclusive showing. You can also check out all of our listings on our Featured Listings page.

Learn More!

8104 Eagle Rock Avenue NE, Albuquerque, NM 87122

Impressive, Impeccable, irresistible . This amazing home will really wow you.With s/s appliances, updated HVAC, remodeled bathrooms (frameless shower), kitchen, 21' tile floors, downstair 4th room (office with French doors),plantation shutters, barn doors (to oversized master closet, beautifully hand crafted custom stair case. This is your next home. Enjoy.

Learn More!

Contact us today to help you buy or sell your next home in Albuquerque. Looking for the perfect home for sale in Albuquerque? Our easy-to-use home search tool can help you start the process. Join us twice a week on our blog for more real estate advice and great reasons to buy a home in Albuquerque and the surrounding area. Follow us on Facebook for the latest Albuquerque real estate updates.

Selling a home in Albuquerque on your own, or FSBO, may seem like a good idea to save money and have more control, but it often leads to more stress. Issues that people face when selling their house on their own include setting the right price, marketing the property effectively, navigating legal requirements, and negotiating with buyers. Without the expertise and experience of a real estate agent, these tasks can be daunting and time-consuming.

Setting the Right Price

Selling a house without a real estate agent can lead to difficulty in setting the right price. Emotions attached to the property can cloud judgment, resulting in an overpriced listing that deters potential buyers and prolongs the selling process.

Paperwork

Selling a home involves a lot of paperwork that can be difficult to understand. Real estate agents undergo extensive training to comprehend legal jargon and can handle all the necessary paperwork on your behalf. Hiring a professional to handle the paperwork can be a convincing reason to choose a real estate agent.

Selling in Your Desired Timeframe

Home sellers don’t always realize how long the process takes. You need to get your home ready to sell, show it to buyers, close the sale, and more. All of this can add up, making the process take longer than people expect. As such, many will set unrealistic deadlines and be disappointed and frustrated when they fall short.

Getting Your Home Ready to Sell

Most homes in Albuquerque need to be prepared to sell.  There’s almost always some repairs to be made, along with cleaning and staging. This is a crucial part of the process that many homeowners overlook when they sell their own home. Home buyers typically will look at a home online and judge the home by the photos. If they don’t see a clean home, they will just go to the next listing.

Why go through all of these stressful obstacles on your own? Hiring an experienced agent, such as Sandi Pressley and her team, will alleviate a great deal of stress and confusion during the selling process, as well as help you make more money in the end.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

4601 Rio Grande Lane NW, Albuquerque, NM 87107

Phenomenal private North Valley oasis located on one of the most coveted streets in Los Ranchos. Entering this magnificent property will take your breath away. Single level. Elegantly and completely renovated in 2018. The entire home encompasses high end finishes, impeccably done with exquisite taste. Two very large living areas, options for formal and casual dining, tremendous windows with exclusive custom drapery. Kahrs white oak wood floors. Chef's kitchen with massive island, custom cabinetry, quartz counter tops and high end appliances. Each bedroom has its own bath and walk-in closet. Separate office with gorgeous builtins. Grounds are simply stunning. The property is gated and fully fenced. Mature trees, fruit and nut bearing, beautiful grass.

Learn More!

Looking for the perfect home for sale in Albuquerque? Our easy-to-use home search tool can help you start the process. Join us twice a week on our blog for more real estate advice and great reasons to buy a home in Albuquerque and the surrounding area. Follow us on Facebook for the latest Albuquerque real estate updates.

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

March is Pet Poison Prevention Awareness Month, a time to educate ourselves on what can be harmful to our furry friends here in our Albuquerque homes. Knowing what substances and items can be toxic to our pets is crucial in keeping them healthy and safe. By being aware of potential hazards and taking preventative measures, we can ensure our pets live long, happy lives.

Human Medications

It is important to note that certain human medications can be fatal for pets, including both prescription and over-the-counter drugs. It is crucial to always consult with a veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet, and to store medications in a secure location to prevent accidental ingestion by pets.

Some types of medications to keep away from pets include:

• Cancer medicines

• Antidepressants

• Diet pills

• Cold medications

• Supplements, such as vitamins

• Pain relievers, such as aspirin, acetaminophen, and ibuprofen

Chemicals

It's important to keep all chemicals and insecticides locked up to prevent animals from being attracted to their pleasant taste. This includes common household chemicals like bleach and detergents, as well as insect bait, herbicides, and fertilizers, which are all toxic.

When using de-icing salts, it's important to be cautious as pets can ingest them by licking their paws. Even chemicals commonly used for dogs, including tick medication, collars, and shampoos, can be toxic.

Human Food

It's important to be aware that certain human foods can be toxic to pets such as garlic, onions, caffeine, and alcohol. As a responsible pet owner, it's best to avoid feeding your furry friend any human food to ensure their safety and well-being.

It's important to know that certain houseplants like poinsettias and lilies can be harmful to cats. If you have a cat that enjoys nibbling on plants, it's best to keep these out of reach or out of the house altogether. Additionally, chicken bones should never be given to cats or dogs as they can easily break apart and cause internal injuries.

Other Hazards

Cats are known to enjoy playing with string, yarn, and similar toys. However, it's important to be cautious when allowing your cat to play with these items as they can pose a serious risk. String and yarn can easily strangle or choke a cat, and some cats may even chew these items into small pieces which can lead to intestinal blockages or entanglement. It's important to supervise your cat during playtime and provide them with safe, cat-friendly toys to prevent any potential harm.

What to Do If Your Pets Are Poisoned

If you suspect that your pet has ingested a poisonous substance, time is of the essence. The first and most important step is to immediately call your veterinarian. It is crucial to keep their contact information in a readily accessible location, such as on the refrigerator.

If your pet has ingested a poisonous substance, contact the Animal Poison Control center at (888) 426-4435. They will guide you on the appropriate next steps based on the type of poison. It is important to monitor your pet for symptoms, which can vary in onset time. Look out for symptoms such as breathing difficulties, coughing, diarrhea, depression, shaking, vomiting, and weakness.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

4601 Rio Grande Lane NW, Albuquerque, NM 87107

Phenomenal private North Valley oasis located on one of the most coveted streets in Los Ranchos. Entering this magnificent property will take your breath away. Single level. Elegantly and completely renovated in 2018. The entire home encompasses high end finishes, impeccably done with exquisite taste. Two very large living areas, options for formal and casual dining, tremendous windows with exclusive custom drapery. Kahrs white oak wood floors. Chef's kitchen with massive island, custom cabinetry, quartz counter tops and high end appliances. Each bedroom has its own bath and walk-in closet. Separate office with gorgeous builtins. Grounds are simply stunning. The property is gated and fully fenced. Mature trees, fruit and nut bearing, beautiful grass.

Learn More!

Looking for the perfect home for sale in Albuquerque? Our easy-to-use home search tool can help you start the process. Join us twice a week on our blog for more real estate advice and great reasons to buy a home in Albuquerque and the surrounding area. Follow us on Facebook for the latest Albuquerque real estate updates.

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

Solar generators are a popular choice for those looking to cut down on electrical expenses or have a backup power supply for thier Albuquerque home. While they are not a new technology, they can be expensive, leading many to question whether they are a better investment than a gas-powered generator. In this blog, we will examine what solar generators are, how they work, and the advantages and disadvantages of investing in one.

What Is a Solar Powered Generator?

Solar generators are portable power hubs that use solar panels to convert sunlight into electricity. These systems are designed to run using energy from the sun or solar power, as opposed to fossil fuels like gas. The solar panels capture the sun's energy, which is then stored in a battery for later use. Solar generators can be used in various settings such as homes, offices, boats, and RVs, as well as on camping trips. They are an excellent way to store backup energy for power outages or strikes.

How Does a Solar Generator Function?

A solar generator consists of four main parts:

• Solar charge controller

• Solar panels

• Battery

• Inverter

Solar panels absorb energy from the sun and store it as DC. The charge controller regulates voltage and sends the electricity to the lithium-ion battery for storage. When needed, the inverter converts the stored charge into AC, allowing appliances to function. Solar generators typically have AC outlets, 12-volt carports, and USB ports for multiple device charging.

Pros of Purchasing a Solar Generator

Noiseless and Easy Maintenance 

The best thing about purchasing a solar generator is its easy maintenance. They also run quietly in the background, with very few moving parts. Reduced friction and noise also mean the chances of your generator breaking down are very low. Therefore, the cost of maintaining a solar generator as compared to a gas generator is very low.

Renewable and Clean Source of Energy 

Solar generators are powered by renewable solar energy, which means they produce clean energy that is free from toxic emissions. Unlike fossil fuels, there is no need to worry about the depletion of resources. Additionally, solar generators have zero negative impact on the environment, making them an eco-friendly and safe option.

Free Energy

Using gas-powered or diesel generators requires paying for fuel, while solar energy is free to use. Investing in a good solar generator system can significantly reduce fuel costs, allowing for substantial savings.

Cons of Purchasing a Solar Generator

Slow Recharge

Solar generator batteries can only be charged during the daytime in bright sunlight. It takes a few hours to charge up the battery completely. On average, solar panels with a power output of 100 W takes around fourteen hours to fill a 12-volt solar battery. Generators that generate power using fossil fuels can be replenished at any time. There is no need to worry about the weather or time of day to generate power.

High Initial Cost

Solar generators are more expensive than gas or fuel generators, with an average cost of twice as much. However, the low maintenance and running costs of solar generators make up for the initial expense in the long run. Gas generators, on the other hand, cost around 1000 USD on average.

Restricted Power Supply 

The size of the battery determines the power capacity of the generator. Portable generators are limited in their ability to power entire homes, but are suitable for charging small electronics. Gas generators have no power limit, depending on the availability of fossil fuels.

What Are Solar Generators Commonly Used For?

Solar generators are ideal for powering smaller appliances and charging devices such as mobile phones and laptops. They are commonly used as backup power for RVs and are also popular for boating and camping trips due to their portability, noise-free operation, and ability to produce clean energy.

However, it's important to note that portable generators are not suitable for powering an entire home grid. To do so, a rooftop solar panel system with sufficient battery storage is required. The number of panels needed and the cost of installation will depend on individual electrical needs and budget.

A solar generator can be a huge investment, but it can help you enjoy essentially free electricity for years to come. The best part is that they are easy to maintain and are noise-free, so investing in either a portable or complete home-grid system is an excellent choice when compared to fossil fuel generators.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

124 PAA KO Drive, Sandia Park, NM 87047

Welcome home to the Paa-ko lifestyle with this next-to-new custom home! Less than 3 years old, this gem has all the bells & whistles. Featuring high-end finishes like engineered oak floors, quartz counters, custom solid doors and cabinets, this one needs to be seen to be believed. Enter through the custom solar, iron gate and appreciate the fully paved driveway with extra parking pads and a 3-car, oversized garage complete with epoxy floors. Completely landscaped, the exterior has both drip & sprinkler irrigation, room for all your toys, gutters, plus over 300sqft of covered outdoor space to enjoy the unparalleled views. 

Learn More!

Looking for the perfect home for sale in Albuquerque? Our easy-to-use home search tool can help you start the process. Join us twice a week on our blog for more real estate advice and great reasons to buy a home in Albuquerque and the surrounding area. Follow us on Facebook for the latest Albuquerque real estate updates.

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

As the days get longer and the weather warms up in Albuquerque, it's the perfect time to get outdoors and start tackling some bigger home projects. With the threat of winter storms now gone, it's a great opportunity to look for any damage that may have occurred and make any necessary repairs. Additionally, it's a good idea to get your home and garden prepped and ready for the summer months ahead.

Here are some useful tips on what to look out for this spring, from ensuring proper irrigation to keeping an eye out for pesky mosquitoes and termites.

Clean Gutters and Downspouts

After the last frost has passed, it is essential to have your gutters and downspouts cleaned and repaired. Clogged gutters and downspouts can cause the wood trim at the eaves to rot, leading to a variety of critters entering your attic.

Getting your gutters and downspouts cleaned early in the season can help prevent any damage from spring rains. It is important that gutters and downspouts are clean and running freely. If the downspouts are installed correctly, water is diverted away from the house so that no water is collected around the foundation.

Reseal Exterior Woodwork

Wood decks, fences, railings, trellises, pergolas, and other outdoor structures should be stained or resealed every year or two in order to help them last longer and stay in better condition. This is also a great opportunity to make any needed repairs to woodwork, such as replacing broken boards or filling in gaps. Taking the time to maintain your outdoor structures can help them last for many years.

Check for Signs of Termites

Beginning in March and going through May or June, it is important to be on the lookout for termites. These winged insects will swarm in the spring, and if you see a bunch of them flying out of a hole in the woodwork, it is likely termites. To ensure the problem is taken care of properly, it is best to call a licensed professional pest control company. Doing this will save you money and trouble in the long run.

Inspect the Roof

Winter storms can cause significant damage to roofs, so it is important to inspect your roof when spring arrives. You don't need to climb on the roof to do this; you can use binoculars, a camera, or a smartphone with a telephoto feature. Look for missing shingles, damaged or missing metal pipes, or anything that looks out of place. If you notice any issues that require closer inspection or repair, it is best to call a roofer.

Paint the Exterior

If you're planning to repaint your home's exterior this year, spring is an ideal time to get started. Choosing a color for your home can be daunting, but there are a few options to explore. You can take a walk around your town and snap pictures of house colors you like, browse photos on Houzz, or work with a color consultant to find the perfect hue. With a little bit of research, you can find the perfect color for your home.

Inspect Driveways and Paths

Freezing and thawing can cause a lot of damage to hardscaping materials such as concrete and asphalt. It is important to inspect your property regularly for any damage to walkways, paths, and driveways. If repairs are needed, asphalt can often be patched, but if the damage is more severe, concrete may need to be replaced entirely. Scheduling repairs as soon as possible is important to prevent further damage from occurring.

Check Sprinkler and Irrigation Systems

Checking your sprinklers or irrigation systems in the spring can save water – and save your plants. Sedinger shares these tips for checking your watering system:

• Run the system through all the zones manually and walk the property.
• Make sure none of the heads are broken or damaged.
• Adjust any heads that are spraying the house, especially windows, as this can cause moisture problems.
• Adjust heads that are spraying the street, sidewalk, or porches to avoid wasting water.
• If you don’t know how to maintain your sprinkler system, call a professional to do it. You’ll save money on your water bill and protect one of our most valuable natural resources.

Check Screen Doors and Windows

Screens are an essential part of keeping your home cool and comfortable during the summer months. Not only do they allow fresh air to flow in, but they also prevent bugs from entering your home. However, in order for screens to be effective, they must be free from any holes or tears. Before the warm weather arrives, it is important to inspect each screen and repair any damage, no matter how small.

Fortunately, screen repair kits can be found at many hardware and home improvement stores. With a little bit of effort, you can ensure that your screens are in top condition and ready for the summer.

Schedule Air-conditioning Service

Home maintenance is an important part of keeping your air conditioning system running efficiently. Many home inspectors see air conditioning systems that have not been adequately maintained, leading to shorter lifespans and less efficient cooling. To ensure your system runs optimally, it is important to change the filters at least once each season and to have a licensed professional service the equipment before the start of summer. Taking these steps can help extend the life of your air conditioning system and ensure it runs efficiently.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

124 PAA KO Drive, Sandia Park, NM 87047

Welcome home to the Paa-ko lifestyle with this next-to-new custom home! Less than 3 years old, this gem has all the bells & whistles. Featuring high-end finishes like engineered oak floors, quartz counters, custom solid doors and cabinets, this one needs to be seen to be believed. Enter through the custom solar, iron gate and appreciate the fully paved driveway with extra parking pads and a 3-car, oversized garage complete with epoxy floors. Completely landscaped, the exterior has both drip & sprinkler irrigation, room for all your toys, gutters, plus over 300sqft of covered outdoor space to enjoy the unparalleled views. 

Learn More!

Looking for the perfect home for sale in Albuquerque? Our easy-to-use home search tool can help you start the process. Join us twice a week on our blog for more real estate advice and great reasons to buy a home in Albuquerque and the surrounding area. Follow us on Facebook for the latest Albuquerque real estate updates.

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

Now is the perfect time to start looking for a great home for sale in Albuquerque. These latest HOT properties from The Sandi Pressley Team are prime examples of the real estate market in Albuquerque. If you're ready to find the perfect home for sale, give us a call!

Contact the Sandi Pressley Team today for your exclusive showing. You can also check out all of our listings on our Featured Listings page.

Learn More!

124 PAA KO Drive, Sandia Park, NM 87047

Welcome home to the Paa-ko lifestyle with this next-to-new custom home! Less than 3 years old, this gem has all the bells & whistles. Featuring high-end finishes like engineered oak floors, quartz counters, custom solid doors and cabinets, this one needs to be seen to be believed. Enter through the custom solar, iron gate and appreciate the fully paved driveway with extra parking pads and a 3-car, oversized garage complete with epoxy floors. Completely landscaped, the exterior has both drip & sprinkler irrigation, room for all your toys, gutters, plus over 300sqft of covered outdoor space to enjoy the unparalleled views. 

Learn More!

Contact us today to help you buy or sell your next home in Albuquerque. Looking for the perfect home for sale in Albuquerque? Our easy-to-use home search tool can help you start the process. Join us twice a week on our blog for more real estate advice and great reasons to buy a home in Albuquerque and the surrounding area. Follow us on Facebook for the latest Albuquerque real estate updates.

It's time to get into the spirit of the Irish this coming week in Albuquerque. If you haven't scheduled time to enjoy the holiday, here are a few events to plan for this St. Patrick's Day!

Albuquerque Official St Patrick's Day Bar Crawl

Fri, Mar 17, 4 PM
Albuquerque, NM

Time to shine those shiny shamrocks all day long for the luckiest day in Albuquerque. You better be wearing green and ready to search for the golden pot of good times while we search for the end of the rainbow in Albuquerque. Our annual Albuquerque Official St Patrick's Day Bar Crawl, when we turn up like no other in the best bars.

Join the St Paddy's celebration on March 17, 2023 you will not want to miss out of the greenest and biggest event of the year in Albuquerque.

St. Patrick's Day Event

Fri, Mar 17, 9 AM – 6 PM
Osuna Nursery
501 Osuna Rd NE, Albuquerque, NM

Celebrate St. Patrick's Day with us Friday, March 17th! Complimentary light bites.

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day

Fri, Mar 17, 9 AM
Wheels Museum Inc
1100 2nd St SW, Albuquerque, NM

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day at Wheels. Movie, Tours, Train Ride and Food Celebration.

Annual St. Patrick's Day Party!

Sat, Mar 18, 12 – 4 PM
Edelweiss Am Rio Grande - German American Club
4821 Menaul Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM

$10 Adults; $5 Children (5 to 12 years); free for under 5 years
(The entry fee is used to pay the performers and the GAC hall rental.) Tickets may be purchased in advance at
www.irishamericansociety-nm.com (scroll down under membership)
or at the door with cash, check, or credit card.

Featured Entertainment
12:30 PM: Duke City Ceili Band
Audience Participation Ceili Dancing with Norita
2:00 PM: Brightburn Academy Irish Step Dancers
2:30 PM: Highland Piper Suzanne (Aden) Kemp
3:00 PM: Celtic Band Jug O’Punch

Silent Auction with Lots of Cool Celtic Things!

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

5336 Jessie Dr NE, Albuquerque, NM 87111

Freshly updated home located in the desirable El Dorado HS district. Paint, LV flooring, quartz countertops in kitchen, remodeled bathrooms, newer furnace. Roof replacement in 2020. Double entry doors welcome you into this bright and cheery home. Open floor plan with kitchen, dining room flowing into the great room with a gas fireplace. Spacious primary suite with room for sitting area, new carpet and remodel bath/spa. Two more bedrooms with new carpet and good sized closets. Wonderful outdoor space with mature plantings and trees(apple tree & evergreens). Enjoy al fresco dining under the covered patio. Near nature trails, restaurants, shopping and markets. Visit this must see GEM.

Learn More!

Looking for the perfect home for sale in Albuquerque? Our easy-to-use home search tool can help you start the process. Join us twice a week on our blog for more real estate advice and great reasons to buy a home in Albuquerque and the surrounding area. Follow us on Facebook for the latest Albuquerque real estate updates.

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

Currently, prospective homebuyers are facing a challenge due to the limited amount of properties on the market. Building a custom home is an excellent solution to this issue, and there are numerous other benefits to consider.

It is essential to consider the potential drawbacks of any decision. Whether the advantages outweigh the disadvantages depends on your individual circumstances and preferences. Here are some of the benefits and drawbacks to be aware of before making a choice.

The Pros of Building a Custom Home

When you’re thinking about building a custom home in Albuquerque, the following are some of the upsides.

You Can Get Exactly What You Want

When you purchase an existing home, you may have to compromise on certain features. You may be able to make changes or updates later, but you likely won't get exactly what you want. On the other hand, when you build a custom home, you can design it to perfectly suit your lifestyle and taste. However, be mindful that you don't create a home that is so unique that it will be difficult to sell in the future.

You Can Customize Your Location

When you choose to build a custom home, you are not only getting all the features you desire in the house itself, but you are also gaining the opportunity to select the perfect location. Perhaps you are drawn to the idea of purchasing land with no neighbors in sight, or you may prefer a stunning view of the Sandia Mountains. Either way, building a custom home gives you the freedom to make the decision that best suits your needs.

You’ll Have Less Maintenance

If you purchase an existing home, you are likely to spend a significant amount of your free time and money on upkeep and repairs. 

However, when you buy a brand new home, you can save thousands of dollars annually on maintenance. You won't have to spend your weekends making repairs, and you can use that time to do other activities. 

Of course, you will still need to take care of certain tasks, such as lawn maintenance, but this will be much less of a burden if you bought an existing or older home.

The Cons of Building a Custom Home

It’s not all upsides when it comes to building the home of your dreams. Downsides to think about include:

It’s Expensive

Constructing a custom home in Albuquerque will almost always be more expensive than purchasing a comparable existing home. You will need to collaborate with a builder, and labor costs will account for approximately 40% of your total expenses. 

In addition to labor, you will be responsible for paying for permits, design fees, and the building materials. You can reduce your costs to some degree depending on the materials and finishes you select, but it is difficult to get labor costs much lower than the initial quote.

Construction Loans Are Challenging

When you build a home, you may need to secure a construction loan. It is important to note that construction loans typically require a 20% down payment, and lenders consider them to be higher risk investments. 

To secure a construction loan, you will need to provide the lender with the same documents you would typically provide when getting a traditional mortgage. Additionally, you will need to provide plans for your project, estimated costs, and information about land value. 

You must also give the lender a signed contract with the plans for your project, specs, and the timeline for construction. With the right preparation, you can confidently secure a construction loan for your home.

Building Can Take a Long Time

Ultimately, you must consider the fact that constructing a custom home can be a lengthy process. Even a basic, small house will take a minimum of three months to complete. If you are constructing a larger home, it could take up to a year or more to finish. 

Additionally, there are a variety of potential delays that could arise, such as inclement weather or difficulty making decisions on certain aspects. Therefore, it is important to be prepared for the possibility of a lengthy construction period.

If you want expert advice to help you decide if you should build or buy, give the real estate experts at the Sandi Pressley team a call. They will prove to be a valuable resource in your journey to live in the home of your dreams in Albuquerque.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

Phenomenal private North Valley oasis located on one of the most coveted streets in Los Ranchos. Entering this magnificent property will take your breath away. Single level. Elegantly and completely renovated in 2018. The entire home encompasses high end finishes, impeccably done with exquisite taste. Two very large living areas, options for formal and casual dining, tremendous windows with exclusive custom drapery. Kahrs white oak wood floors. Chef's kitchen with massive island, custom cabinetry, quartz counter tops and high end appliances. Each bedroom has its own bath and walk-in closet. Separate office with gorgeous builtins. Grounds are simply stunning. The property is gated and fully fenced. Mature trees, fruit and nut bearing, beautiful grass. 

Learn More!

Looking for the perfect home for sale in Albuquerque? Our easy-to-use home search tool can help you start the process. Join us twice a week on our blog for more real estate advice and great reasons to buy a home in Albuquerque and the surrounding area. Follow us on Facebook for the latest Albuquerque real estate updates.

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

Moving to or from Albuquerque, or anywhere, can be expensive. But there are ways to make it more affordable. This blog post will give you tips on how to move smarter and save money during the relocation process. From packing supplies and organizing your belongings, to finding the best moving companies and storage options, these tips will help you make your move as smooth and affordable as possible.

When it comes to moving, being smart and savvy about your expenses can make all the difference. To save money and reduce stress, it's important to plan ahead and look for ways to streamline the process.

Here are a few tips to help you move smarter and save money:

Set a Moving Budget

Moving can be expensive, but when done correctly, it doesn't need to break the bank. With the right budgeting and planning, you can make relocation affordable and still move smart.

Before you start packing, take some time to plan out your budget and make sure you have enough money to cover the expenses that come with moving.

Start by creating a budget that includes expenses like rental trucks, packing supplies, and movers. Estimate how much you'll need to cover the cost of fuel and lodging on the way to your new home. If you have the time, try to look for money-saving opportunities like borrowing packing supplies from friends and family, or renting a truck for a cheaper rate.

As you plan, remember to factor in the cost of moving insurance, storage units, and any other services you may need. Once you've created a budget, you'll be able to make the most of your money, ensuring a smooth and efficient move.

Downsizing Before the Move

Moving can seem like a daunting and expensive experience, but it doesn't have to be. Downsizing before the move is an effective way to save money and make the process less stressful.

Start by sorting through your belongings and eliminating items you no longer need or use. This can be done through donations, consignment, or even a yard sale. By getting rid of unnecessary items, you will be able to reduce the amount of furniture and boxes that need to be transported to your new home.

Additionally, you can save money on packing materials and moving costs. Finally, by downsizing before the move, you can save time, energy, and money on the entire relocation process. So, if you're looking to move smarter and save, downsizing is a great starting point.

DIY Strategies for Relocation Savings

Moving to a new home can be expensive and stressful, but there are plenty of DIY strategies to help keep costs down and make relocation more affordable. Start by scheduling a move during the off-season, when moving companies are less busy and more likely to offer discounts.

You can also save money by packing and unpacking your own boxes, and renting or borrowing a moving truck instead of hiring a professional moving company. When it comes to furniture, consider selling large pieces and buying smaller, more affordable replacements at your new home.

Finally, make sure to research any potential new neighborhoods to make sure you are getting the best deal on rent or a mortgage. With a little planning and research, you can move smarter and save money on your next relocation.

Tips for Finding Affordable Movers or Rental Trucks

Whether you are moving across Albuquerque or across the country, there are ways to save money and make your move more affordable. To start, it's important to plan ahead and compare prices between several different movers or rental truck companies.

One great way to save money is to look for discounts or special offers. You can also save money by packing your items yourself and using your own supplies. Additionally, packing and loading on a weekday can often result in lower rates than weekend rates.

Finally, it's important to research the company you choose and double-check their experience and customer reviews before signing a contract. With a little bit of planning and research, you can move smarter and save money on your relocation.

When it comes to relocating, it can become quite expensive. But there are ways to make the process more affordable. 

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