Real Estate Information Archive

Owning a home in Albuquerque comes with its fair share of maintenance tasks, and keeping an eye on the condition of your plumbing system is crucial. The pipes in your home are the unsung heroes of your daily comfort, quietly working away behind the scenes. But when they start to fail, they can cause a world of trouble. Here's a rundown of the telltale signs that your pipes may need an upgrade.

Age of Pipes: Just like fine wine, your house has a vintage, and if it's over 50 years old, it's likely that your pipes are too. Older pipes made from materials like galvanized steel are prone to corrosion and rust, which can lead to a host of problems.

Regular Leaks: A leak here and there might not seem like a big deal, but frequent leaks are a red flag. They can be indicative of a larger issue, such as deteriorating pipes that need replacing rather than another round of repairs.

Low Water Pressure: If your showers are more of a trickle than a torrent, it could be due to mineral buildup or corrosion in your pipes, restricting water flow and reducing pressure.

Discolored Water: Rusty or brown-tinted water is a clear sign of corrosion in your pipes. Not only is this unappealing, but it can also pose health risks if the water is used for drinking or cooking.

Lead Pipes: If your home was built before the 1980s, there's a chance you have lead pipes. Lead is a serious health hazard, and upgrading to modern materials is not just beneficial, it's essential.

Regular Clogs: Constant clogs, even after clearing them, suggest that your pipes may be the culprit. Corrosion and mineral buildup can narrow the pipes, leading to frequent blockages.

Why Upgrading is Necessary

Upgrading your home's pipes isn't just about fixing current problems; it's about preventing future ones. Here are a few reasons why investing in new pipes is a smart move:

• Improved Water Quality: New pipes mean cleaner water, free from the contaminants that old, corroded pipes might introduce.
• Enhanced Durability: Modern pipes are designed to last, using materials that resist corrosion and wear.
• Better Water Pressure: Enjoy showers and faucets that work at full blast, thanks to improved water flow with new pipes.
• Preventing Water Damage: Old, leaky pipes can cause significant damage to your home. Upgrading can save you from costly repairs down the line.

If you're noticing any of these signs, it might be time to call in a professional to assess your plumbing system. Upgrading your pipes can seem like a daunting task, but the peace of mind and long-term savings it brings can be well worth the investment. Keep your Albuquerque home's plumbing in top shape, and you'll ensure that your sanctuary remains a place of comfort and reliability. Remember, your pipes might be out of sight, but they should never be out of mind!

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

Charming single story home in the Ladera Heights. Light and bright great room greets you as you walk into the door. The living room opens to an outside patio. Vaulted ceilings add to the appeal of this home along with the laminate flooring. Enjoy the refrigerated air during the warm months. Cheerful kitchen opening to cozy breakfast nook. Master suite has a well-appointed walk-in closet space and a large bathroom. Secondary bedrooms are spacious and sunny . This neighborhood is convenient for shopping, transportation, and recreation. Schedule a showing today!

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!

Are you looking to add value to your home? One of the best ways to do this is by making smart home improvements. From energy-efficient appliances to smart home automation systems, there are plenty of ways to upgrade and enhance your home without breaking the bank.

Home improvement projects are a great option for Albuquerque home owners who want to add value to their property. Not only do smart home improvements increase the value of your home, but they can also save you money in the long run. Every penny saved from replacing an old appliance or installing efficient solar paneling can help you out in the long run. Furthermore, an aesthetically pleasing renovation such as adding a room or finishing the basement or attic can draw potential buyers in, adding to the value of your home.

In this blog, we’ll look at smart home improvements that you can make to add value to your home. 

Benefits of Making Smart Home Improvements

Making smart home improvements can have a number of benefits, especially when it comes to making a home more energy efficient. For example, replacing old window frames with new insulated windows can help reduce heating and cooling costs over time.

Additionally, ceiling fans and more efficient lighting options can also help to reduce energy costs.

Homeowners in Albuquerque can also benefit from installing low-flow toilet fixtures, energy-efficient appliances, and even solar energy systems if their budget allows. Taking the time to find ways to make home improvements that are also energy efficient can be well worth the effort in the long run.

Aside from the energy savings, smart home improvements can also help increase the value of a home which can lead to a higher return on investment when it comes time to sell. Installing modern appliances or adding a deck or patio are just two of the ways homeowners can add value to their properties.

Again, renovating a home is not only a great way to save energy and reduce bills, but it can also be a great investment for when it comes time to sell. Home improvement projects, such as adding a deck or upgrading appliances, can help increase the value of the property. By taking the time now to make smart home improvements, Albuquerque homeowners can benefit from more money in their pockets down the road.

How to Add Value to Your Home Through Smart Improvements

One way to add value to your home is to make smart improvements that you can do yourself or hire someone to do, such as replacing old appliances with energy-efficient ones, adding a room or finishing the basement or attic, and installing solar panels.

Another way to add value to your home is to update it with features that appeal to potential buyers, such as remodeling the kitchen and bathrooms, adding a deck or patio for outdoor living space, and making sure the exterior looks clean and inviting.

Home improvements in Albuquerque can be costly, but they are worth the investment in the long run. Not only will potential buyers be attracted to your home, but you can also enjoy a greater level of comfort with updated features. Consider consulting a local expert for advice on the best ways to make improvements that will increase the value of your home. With the right guidance, your home can become a desirable property that stands out in the market.

Finally, consider making improvements that will improve the home’s performance and appeal, such as improving its insulation and air sealing, upgrading the windows and doors, and replacing aging plumbing fixtures. These investments will pay off in the long run with lower utility bills and higher property values.

In conclusion, making smart home improvements can add significant value to your home. From energy-efficient appliances to smart home automation systems, there are plenty of projects that you can undertake yourself or hire a professional to handle. So don’t hesitate—start planning your next smart home improvement project today.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

45 BROKEN ARROW Place, Sandia Park, NM 87047

Luxurious Custom Home located on a private gated street in the prestigious Paako Ridge Community, situated next to the fairway of hole #1 of the world class Paako Ridge Golf course! Approximately 300K has been invested by current owners in the surrounding environmentally friendly & efficient landscaping that boasts low voltage lighting, stone fountain, drought tolerant trees, shrubs and perennials. Environmentally constructed for optimum energy efficiency, with thoughtful architectural & designer details throughout, this exquisite home will impress the most discerning buyer! Upon entry, the open & bright great room offers a dramatic raised coffered ceiling, custom tile floors, double sided gas log fireplace, & awe-inspiring views of veranda & garden through the windows & French doors.

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

Are you planning to put your Albuquerque house on the market soon? If so, it is essential to figure out how to boost its value. Fortunately, there are many ways that can help you do this - from a fresh coating of paint or new windows to a full-on renovation.

Let's take a look at some of the best and trendiest ways to increase home value.

Update the Interior

For individuals looking to upgrade their home, interior design is usually the first thought that comes to mind.   Appreciated amenities,   energy efficient appliances and creative   designs have the potential to   change a room's overall appeal without having to spend too much money on a whole remodel. And there's no limit to how   creative you can get with your updates! 

Want to make your home more visually appealing? Adding some simple touches like repainting your cabinets and swapping out old light fixtures can instantly give it a more modern look. You can also ask help from an interior designer, your realtor, or even the internet for some inspiration. 

Exterior & Landscaping

Homebuyers have certain expectations when they visit your listing. Is the house inviting? Does the yard look well-maintained? Walkways should be clear of debris.

Many people will not buy a house if the outside and surrounding property look like it will need expensive repair. Remember to take extra consideration for often overlooked aspects of your lawn. There are easy and inexpensive ways to do so, such as:

• Mend wood rot
• No bare grass spots
• Fix any peeling paint
• Add mulch where necessary
• Fix any cracks in the concrete
• Clear your gutters of any debris
• Ensure your front door is in good shape
• No dead, wilted, or dry plants, shrubs, or trees
• Clean the windows inside and out and ensure no screens or blinds are damaged

Ensuring all of these are in good standing will quickly add to the curb appeal of your home.

Make Your Home Energy Efficient

The new energy-efficient appliances will make your home more appealing, because buyers are looking for a home that is environmentally friendly. This can be an added plus, if the house is put on the market or if you live in the home and want to increase its value. 

Energy-efficient windows, doors, and lighting are not only a great way to reduce their carbon footprint and save money, but these energy-efficient building materials and fixtures could also lead to tax breaks. 

Thanks to advances in technology, there are many eco-friendly, energy-efficient options available to you. You can find smart technology, Energy-Star rated appliances, and thermally-broken steel-based doors and windows. Whether you prefer contemporary or more traditional rustic-style homes, there's a solution for you. 

Install New Windows & Doors

Customizing your windows and doors is one of the most effective ways to raise the value of your home. When home buyers look at houses, they pay close attention to how upgraded the doors and windows are. 

Not only are there energy-efficient options to choose from—there are also plenty of stylish colors and fashionable designs to choose from, so there's sure to be something that fits your unique aesthetic perfectly. 

Are you looking for traditional or modern-looking windows and doors that will provide your home with character and a fresh, new look? 

When choosing new doors and windows, keep in mind the dessert climate you live in. Aim to buy windows and doors that hold in warm and cool air accordingly so that you don't end up paying more on energy bills.

Update Your Kitchen & Bathroom

A common project for a home remodeling project is to change the kitchen or bathroom. There are so many things that you can do to add value to these rooms! Installing smart home technology and devices, re-doing a shower or bathtub, or even just a new countertop or backsplash plus a bit of paint goes a long way too. When you want to add value to your home, there’s no shortage of ideas or options! 

If you're thinking of fixing up your home to put it on the market, check what's trending. Get an idea of what might increase a home's value. Then, once you've finished renovating, you can improve the right features and try to make a much nicer profit once you do find a buyer. 

New bathrooms and kitchens, however, are only as good as the pipes that support them. If a home has a lot of old pipes and plumbing, it might be worth updating or replacing them with newer versions. Unfortunately, there's no way around it: Buyers do look at these things. So if it's not up to standard, it can be difficult to find a buyer. 

Focus on Maintenance and Repairs

If your plumbing isn't up to date, you could be facing problems with your home. Plus, no one wants to deal with broken pipes while you're trying to sell! If there are repairs to be made, do it before you put your home on the market. 

Whether you intend to sell the home or not, keeping up with routine preventative maintenance and fix all problems you know already exist helps ensure that the home is in its best possible condition and will attract the most number of buyers. Keep a record of all repairs, installations, and any service done to any part of the house so that you have answers and proof ready for any potential buyer's questions. 

Old houses always come with hidden problems and issues. By getting a Home Inspector in to thoroughly check the house, you'll be saving yourself a lot of headaches and potential costs long term. Regular maintenance and upkeep on a house also saves you money in the long run. 

There are so many ways to increase home value. Just make sure you communicate with your realtor if you're selling the house and research what's trending in the market and with home buyers. Then, find the best ones for your budget and aesthetic goals, and you'll sell the house in no time at all.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

** $10,000 incentive for points buydown, closing costs or to use on carpet/paint.** This home boasts 5 bedrooms, 4 baths and a spacious 3 car garage! This wonderful corner lot home in the Celebracion at Fiesta Subdivision has 2 living areas and an open concept, perfect for entertaining! Great location close to restaurants, stores and the freeway. There is much to see with this fabulous home, come and look for yourself!

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

Interior designers have for years tried to break homeowners' addiction to granite counters. Alternative surfaces have been introduced such as stainless steel, concrete, glass, quartz, wood, and marble, but these surfaces lack granite's luxury look.

Here are five things you need to know if you're getting granite countertops in your Albuquerque home for the first time:

Choose the Right Stone

The term granite refers to granular igneous rocks formed by cooled magma and indigenous minerals. There are many colors of granite depending on where it is quarried, including gray, pink, red, green, blue, and gold. The rarity of the vein of granite can drive up the price considerably, as well as the thickness and the type of fabrication you choose.

Make sure you don't choose granite from a sample when you shop for it. In a sense, you're buying the whole slab, so that's how you should shop. Be sure to look at the whole slabs to minimize waste and to ensure sections are matched. In some cases, you may be able to purchase more than one slab from the same lot. To accommodate large kitchens, they are sliced like toast. When they are placed back to back, they form a butterfly or mirror image.

The beauty of granite is the movement of color and the pattern of streaks and dapples, so choose wisely. A strong graphic pattern will be highly energizing, while a softer color and pattern will be calming.

Measure Carefully

The price of granite is determined by the square foot. Multiply the length and width of each section of your kitchen, such as countertops, backsplash, and an island, to figure out how many square feet you need. Once that has been done, add up each section's square feet.

Measuring involves more than just that. It is important to consider edge allowances, seam allowances, sinks, and other factors. You can tell your salesperson how many square feet you think you'll need, and he or she can direct you to slabs and lots that are large enough to fulfill your order. Once you choose, the salesperson will "hold" the slab with a deposit, until the fabricator can come out to measure exactly.

It is recommended that you install your cabinets before the fabricator arrives. In addition to appliances, if you plan to install a new sink or cooktop, you will have to give the fabricator the measurements of those items as well. Let the fabricator take the measurements. That way the fit is guaranteed.

Be Aware of Slab Thickness

There is a difference in thickness between granite slabs, so expect to pay more for a three-inch thickness than a one-inch thickness. If you choose a thick granite, make sure your cabinets can support that much weight.

The next step is to decide whether you want a bullnose, an ogee, a bevel, or a raw edge. Granite can also look different depending on its finish. Granite that has been polished is glossy and reflective. A matte finish is achieved with honed granite. A leather finish has a textured appearance.

Ask for as Few Seams as Possible

The granite pattern and color should flow as smoothly as possible when doing a large area like a kitchen. Seamless slabs are more valuable than seamed pieces because they're like works of art. Check with the fabricator to see if any parts can be done without seams. Depending on the design of your kitchen, it is sometimes possible.

For a cheaper option, you can choose granite tiles, which have no seams, but they don't add much value to your home. You can also order from scraps the dealer may have leftover from other jobs, but they're only be suitable for small jobs where you don't have to match another granite, such as a powder bath or laundry.

Granite requires care.

Granite is fairly heat-resistant and easy to clean, but you should keep in mind that it's also porous. It can crack, chip, stain and show scratches.

Use a trivet or hot pad instead of directly placing hot pans on the surface. Clean granite only with granite-safe cleaners. Bleach, ammonia products, scouring pads, and anything acidic such as lemon or vinegar should not be used to clean. Don't use dish soap to clean as it can leave a dulling film on the surface. Spills of wine, juice and tomato sauce should be cleaned up quickly.

Some finishes such as polish act as more of a seal, but you can also purchase granite sealers at your local market. Just wipe it on once a year or so to keep your countertops looking their best.

If you're wondering whether your countertop needs sealing, spill some clean water or the surface and cover it with a paper towel. If it leaves a stain, it will go away eventually, but you'll know it's time for sealant.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE PROPERTY OF THE WEEK!

4715 SANDPOINT Road NW, Albuquerque, NM 87114

Welcome home to this Oppel-Jenkins brick beauty! This versatile floorplan features extensive living space with a gas-lighting, wood-burning fireplace and newer water heater (2019). Be ready for the holidays with the oversized kitchen complete with 5-burner gas range (new 2020) and oversized island. There's room for everyone upstairs with the giant loft and 4 bedrooms. Master suite features a huge walk-in closet, jetted tub and separate shower. Take in the amazing views from your balcony, and enjoy being close to restaurants, shopping and more.

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.

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

We’ve all heard the stories. An overcharging contractor, a subcontractor who did shoddy work, or a contractor who disappeared altogether. There are unfortunately an almost infinite number of bad apples in the Albuquerque construction and home improvement industries. In order to gain your business, they promise the world, but then run off with your money. These scams target many unsuspecting homeowners every year.

The question is, how can you avoid being taken advantage of by these crooked contractors?

Read reviews and do your research

Reviews of contractors are easier to find now than ever before. Searching online yields a wealth of information, and you should take advantage of it. Choosing the first contractor in Albuquerque you find can be tempting. Reading reviews and doing your research can save you both time and money. You could end up saving thousands of dollars and avoid a lot of headaches by spending a few minutes reading online. 

Get multiple estimates, and don't be cheap

You should only hire a qualified contractor if you plan to do home improvement work. It's important to get multiple estimates and research different contractors before selecting one. The first contractor you find or someone who offers low prices may seem appealing.

In the long run, these choices can end up costing you more, as inferior workmanship and low-quality materials can lead to expensive repairs. To make an informed decision about which contractor is right for your project, make sure you get multiple bids and research your options before choosing one. 

Do background checks

A thorough background check is essential for large projects. There are a variety of important pieces of information that can be revealed by a background check, including whether the individual has any outstanding debts or legal issues. Furthermore, they can provide information about the quality of their previous work, including complaints from customers and previous employment. Often, background checks reveal things that weren't revealed in reviews, so they are an important part of the research process, particularly if you are hiring someone for a large or expensive project.

Insist on a written contract

A written contract is essential when dealing with any type of contractor. In many cases, contractors claim that they don't normally do things that way, so they don't have to provide a written contract. However, regardless of the words that a contractor uses, it is crucial to have a written contract detailing the terms and conditions of your job.

The written contract provides you with peace of mind by describing exactly what services and materials the contractor will provide, as well as giving you legal recourse in case something goes wrong. When a contractor balks at signing a written contract, this should raise a red flag and you should look for someone who can meet your needs and requirements. A well-written contract cannot be understated, so no matter how persuasive a contractor seems, insist on one!

Never pay a contractor by the hour

It is usually best not to pay contractors by the hour. There are several drawbacks to this approach that can ultimately result in unnecessary costs and frustrations for both parties. To begin with, contractors are incentivized to work more hours than are required by paying by the hour. You may be nickeled and dimed with extra requests and delays in order to get paid more money, even if doing so makes little sense from an operational standpoint. Paying by the hour can also lead to budget overruns and frustrations due to unforeseen costs.

Pay with a credit card

Paying for contractor services with a credit card is always the best option. You will have an added measure of protection in case the work is not completed as planned, or if the quality is not satisfactory. Credit card payments can be disputed with your credit card company if there are problems. By contrast, if you pay cash or write a check, you have no recourse if the job is not done correctly. 

Don't pay the full amount until the job is done

It is not uncommon for contractors to request full payment up front and then fail to deliver. As the work is being completed, it is wise to pay in installments and inspect the work before paying the full balance. By doing this, you will have a chance to address any problems that may arise during the work process. Additionally, by paying in installments during the course of the project, you can ensure that you are getting high-quality work for your money and help prevent any unscrupulous contractors from taking advantage of you. 

The best way to avoid getting ripped off by a crooked contractor is to do your homework. Get references, check them out, and ask lots of questions. Also, be sure to get everything in writing, including a detailed estimate of all costs. By following these simple tips, you can protect yourself from becoming a victim of contractor fraud.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE PROPERTY OF THE WEEK!

7408 KRISTA Drive NE, Albuquerque, NM 87109

Come and view this beautiful corner lot in the NE Heights! Home has 4 bedrooms (possible 6), + 2 remodeled bathrooms. There so many updates on this home including: NEW roof and skylight on front patio (2020), Exterior painted (2020), Interior painted (2021), NEW kitchen flooring (2022), NEW wood laminate flooring (2022), NEW dishwasher (2022), NEW stove (2021), NEW fixtures (2021), NEW bedroom carpet (2021), Both bathrooms were remodeled in 2018! This home will not last long - schedule an appointment today!

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.

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

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.

HOT HOME LISTING OF THE WEEK!

10032 BRIDGEPOINTE Court NE, Albuquerque, NM 87111  $459,000

3 Bedrooms / 3 Bathrooms (2 full, 1 half) / 2466 Square Feet

Delightful Custom Home in the prestigious gated golf course community of Tanoan! Soaring cathedral ceiling & grand staircase welcome you through the impressive foyer. This immaculate home features clerestory, bow & picture windows invitng the natural light in & raised tray ceilings gracing several rooms thru-out. Cozy fireplace is heart of family room w/custom wainscoting flowing into ample dining room & open kitchen w/island, eat at bar, SS appliances & gorgeous granite counters. Upper level features 3 privately situated bedrooms w/stunning views from their own balconies; Master suite w/spa like en suite with stainglass window, sitting area w/fireplace & balcony to enjoy city & mtn views. Lush backyard w/covered & open patios is a bird watchers dream-w/flagstone & lawn w/brick border.

Contact the Sandi Pressley team for additional details! 

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team