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The Importance of A Home Appraisal: Why It Matters

by Sandi Pressley


When buying or selling a home, multiple factors influence the decision-making process. One crucial step that often needs to be noticed or understood is the home appraisal. A home appraisal is an independent evaluation of a property's value conducted by a certified professional. In this blog, we will discuss why a home appraisal matters and its significant role for buyers and sellers in the real estate market.

 

1. Accurate Valuation:

A home appraisal offers an unbiased and accurate property value determination. Real estate markets fluctuate, and the price set by a seller may not truly reflect the property's worth. An appraisal ensures that both parties involved have a reliable negotiation starting point. For buyers, it assures that they are making a fair investment, while sellers can confidently price their property based on market value.

2. Lending and Financing:

For most buyers, purchasing a home most often involves securing a mortgage or loan. Lenders typically require an appraisal to protect their investment. When a potential buyer applies for financing, the lender wants to confirm that the property's valuation aligns with the requested loan amount. It acts as security for the lender, ensuring the property is sufficient collateral per the loan value.

3. Avoiding Overpaying or Undervaluing:

A home appraisal prevents buyers from overpaying for a property, safeguarding their financial interests. The appraiser's comprehensive evaluation considers the property's condition, location, size, amenities, and market trends. It ensures that buyers are paying a fair price, steering them away from potential financial hardship in the future.

4. Negotiating Power:

A home appraisal empowers both buyers and sellers during negotiation. If the assessment reveals that the property's value is lower than the agreed-upon purchase price, buyers can use this as leverage to renegotiate with the seller. On the other hand, if the appraisal suggests a higher value than the purchase price, sellers can have confidence in defending their asking price. It promotes transparency and fairness in real estate transactions.

5. Investment Protection:

A home appraisal is essential for homeowners who are refinancing or taking out a home equity loan. By getting an accurate valuation, they can protect their investment. Knowing the current market value of their property ensures they don't risk borrowing more than the actual worth of their home. Moreover, an appraisal can help homeowners make informed decisions about renovations or improvements that can increase their property's value.

A home appraisal is a vital step in the home buying or selling process, providing buyers and sellers with confidence and protection. Its role in determining a property's market value, securing financing, and facilitating fair negotiations cannot be overstated. By understanding the significance of a home appraisal, individuals can make more informed decisions and navigate the real estate market with greater ease and assurance.

Suppose you're considering selling your current home and purchasing another. In that case, it is essential to partner with a professional, experienced local real estate agent with a proven record of success to ensure a successful real estate transaction. Put the triumphant Power of the Sandi Pressley Team to work for you! Contact us today here.

 

HOT PROPERTY OF THE WEEK!


12 DUSTIN COURT, PLACITAS, NM

Magnificent VIEWS of the mountains & mesas!! Featuring an IN-LAW/GUEST SUITE! Lower-level walk-out game room/media room! Lots of natural light, wood beam ceilings, open plan, separate study/office. NEW HVAC (2021)! SILICONE ROOF RESTORATION (2022)! Living room features cozy Kiva fireplace & wall of windows w/mtn views! Formal dining rm & butler pantry. Beautiful kitchen has SW style cabinets, island, built-in oven, gas cooktop, bkfst bar & nook with banco. Primary suite features a sitting room/office, fireplace, sauna, tub, sep shower, huge walk-in closet & covered patio with views! Secondary bedrooms with Jack-N-Jill bath! 3 Car Garage, paved driveway & cul-de-sac location. Natural landscape, 2 waterfalls, covered portals & private courtyard!

 

START YOUR DAY INSPIRED WITH THE Sandi Pressley TEAM!


 

Home Buyer Benefits of Using the Sandi Pressley Team!

by Sandi Pressley


Thank you so much for the privilege and opportunity of earning your business. I know you have so many choices when partnering with a real estate agent or team to find your perfect home in the greater Albuquerque New Mexico area and we are truly honored to be considered in your search.

Here are some of the most important reasons home buyers choose to work with New Mexico's and Albuquerque's #1 Top producing broker, myself, Sandi Pressley and my extraordinary team of agents. There are so many things that separate me from other brokers, these will just detail a few:

I care more about my clients than my commissions (paid by the sellers not by you the buyer) My tireless dedication, integrity and exceptional customer service distinguishes me from all the other Real Estate brokers which is demonstrated by 51% of my business coming from very satisfied customer referrals! We will have your back from start to closing!

• I am the only broker in the history of New Mexico to have been the #1 Top Producing Broker both in the number of homes sold and in total sales volume for 37 consecutive years! What this means for you is that no other broker is more effective at achieving a successful purchase than I am. Plus it proves that I have achieved excellence, consistency, and attention to numerous details in every real estate transaction.

• I am ranked 5th in the Nation for Coldwell Banker.

• My ability to negotiate is second to none. This is what you need to get the best possible price on your home purchase and get to a successful closing!

• My name and network in this industry carries weight! I get things done that no one else can! When exceptions are needed or we need top priority attention, I can get that accomplished!

• I am a native of Albuquerque and have proudly served my clients for over 44 years.

• My ability to close is second to none! Regardless of the challenges that can develop from contract to closing 99% of every sale we get under contract makes it to a successful closing!

• Your home purchase is way too important to entrust to an individual. This is why I have an entire Ninja trained team from prelisting/to listing/to closing to handle your transaction with “TLC” all the way to closing and beyond! Our closing team consists of a licensed broker that has been working for me for 28+ years plus her assistant. They work 60+ hours a week managing the arduous and critical details to insure all the many deadlines and contingencies are micro-managed to achieve a successful closing. Without this attention to detail a contract can fall apart!

• High Energy, Tireless Drive, Vast Experience, Enthusiasm and Dedication are key and important qualities that I am sure you recognize are important assets that I would bring to you as your Broker.

There are so many more points of difference, but I hope this suffices. I trust you will make the best decision for you and hire me & my team to get you to a successful closing! Please call anytime to discuss further details 505-980-2999. Thank you again for the opportunity to serve you.

~ Sandi Pressley

 

HOT PROPERTY OF THE WEEK!


12409 PINO AVENUE NE, ALBUQUERQUE, NM

A true one-story gem tucked in North Albuquerque Acres on 1.15 acres. Enjoy Mountain views and the city lights within your private oasis. This spacious home offers 2 living spaces, Chef's kitchen with stainless steel double ovens, gas cooktop, mini wine fridge, electric hotplate, expansive granite countertops. Opens to family room with wood burning stove. Spacious Primary suite, large walk-in closet with dressing area. Features include Sunroom access to a gazebo in the backyard, office, oversized laundry room with storage. Detached 2 car garage with electric. Gated entry into property. Room for RV. Nature brings serenity to this home with the vibrant New Mexico sky. Discover the wildlife such as deer, rabbits, hummingbirds & squirrels. Close to shopping, restaurants, trails, mountain biking, tram, I25.

 

GET YOUR MORNING INSPIRATION WITH THE Sandi Pressley TEAM!


The Top 10 Features Buyers are Looking for in a Home Right Now?

by Sandi Pressley

 

It’s National Home Buyer’s Month and today we’re going to look at the top features buyers are looking for in a home right now. As homeowners look to update or improve their homes, possible for a sale down the road, it’s important to not only look at your current needs, but what will be a selling point to home buyers. It’s what will ‘add value’ to your home at the sale. Below are the Top 10 Features most wanted today:

  1. Laundry Room- 87% of today’s buyers put this at the top of their list. Even if you have a small space, a fresh coat of paint, shelves & a hanging unit, along with a folding table can create a lovely area.
  2. Exterior Lighting- Maximizing our outdoor living space is a natural extension of our overall square footage, and a beautiful way to incorporate our stunning outdoor landscape. The use of great exterior lighting not only beautifies the area but gives way to greater hours being spent outdoors. PLUS, what a way to accent the area for buyers!!
  3. Energy-Star Windows- More and more home buyers are putting the focus on energy savings. Investing in Energy efficient windows is one of the best returns on your investment you can make. Whether YOU plan to live in the home for years to come, or you’re looking to sell, this is a GREAT investment.
  4. Patio- Whether you have a small or large yard, home buyers look for a yard with a patio and this is one investment that will not only pay off, but does add that outdoor living space to your home as well. This doesn’t just need to be a cement patio either…have some fun!  Patio’s today come in all shapes, sizes, and elements. They can become a true work of art in your yard.
  5. Walk-in Pantry- I don’t know about you, but I think this is every homeowner’s and buyers’ dream. An organized pantry for food, oversized countertop appliances, stock-up food purchases, wine fridge and more. The time it saves each and every day from looking for items to putting things away is worth it on its own. Personally, I’d put this at the top of my list!
  6. Side-by-Side Kitchen Sink- Are you surprised? Most people are ready for that statement to say Farmhouse kitchen sink, however, most buyers are looking for side by side’s as they feel they are far more functional.
  7. Energy Star Appliances- This really goes without saying. As we are all conscience about money saving, and the effect of our choices on the environment, we look for energy-saving appliances wherever and whenever possible. Upgrading these in your home is an excellent return on investment if you plan to convey the appliances with the sale of your home.
  8. Full Bath on the main living area. Many floor plans include a half bath on the main floor/living area. Today’s home buyers are actually looking for a full bath on the main level, making it much easier and accessible for overnight guests.  If you are looking to update your home, considering a full bath on the main level could be a game changer when it comes time to sell. It would certainly separate your home from others on the market.
  9. Hardwood Flooring- Not surprising at all. This has been, and remains, one of the highly-sought-after flooring elements in a home and a home buyer top 10 for a long time. One big tip- buyers like the real deal. Laminate and vinyl varieties won’t garner the same reaction that actual hardwood will. While they are more durable and lasting, actual hardwood is still the gold standard.

10.Full front porch! Who says the days of sitting on your front porch and chatting with the neighbors is in the past?!  Today’s home buyers are still yearning for the wonderful front porch nostalgia of yesteryear. Now we’re not talking about the ‘old-time’ façade, although we still love that era, todays front porch is functional, beautiful in design, and has stunning curb appeal. Plus, it gives you another natural extension of your living space and neighborhood entertainment area.

Excited to get started on your HOME BUYING journey? We’re excited to partner with you!  Call or email us today to get started.

 

HOT PROPERTY OF THE WEEK!


12 DUSTIN COURT, PLACITAS, NM

Magnificent VIEWS of the mountains & mesas!! Featuring an IN-LAW/GUEST SUITE! Lower-level walk-out game room/media room! Lots of natural light, wood beam ceilings, open plan, separate study/office. NEW HVAC (2021)! SILICONE ROOF RESTORATION (2022)! The living room features cozy Kiva fireplace & wall of windows with mountain views! Formal dining room & butler pantry. Beautiful kitchen has Southwest style cabinets, island, built-in oven, gas cooktop, breakfast bar & nook with banco. The primary suite features a sitting room/office, fireplace, sauna, tub, separate shower, huge walk-in closet & covered patio with views! Secondary bedrooms with Jack-N-Jill bath! 3 car garage. Paved driveway & cul-de-sac location. Natural landscape, 2 waterfalls, covered portals & private courtyard!

 

GET YOUR MORNING INSPIRATION WITH THE Sandi Pressley TEAM!


 

The Home Buying Process

by Sandi Pressley



It’s National Home Buying Month so it only makes sense for us to review the home buying process. For many would be home buyers, the excitement builds so high in anticipation of purchasing your home that you may jump over some of the important aspects needed before you begin your search. We’ll outline those here, so you are sure to have success in not only finding your perfect home but securing it as well.

  1. Finding the best Real Estate Agent/Team for you. Partnering with a strong, knowledgeable local real estate agent/team who understands your personal situation and needs and has a strong team of individuals and resources at their disposal to help provide all the tools necessary to secure your perfect home is essential in the home buying process. At the Sandi Pressley Team we have ALL those and more. Our relationships in the community, with lenders, attorneys, home inspectors, contractors, etc, allow us to provide you with all the individuals necessary to make your dream home a reality while leveraging our substantial real estate experience and expertise.
  2. Getting Pre-Approved for your Home Loan. This is critical in the market today. Not only will the lender let you know how much you are able to afford, but the pre-approval will also let the seller know you are serious about purchasing their home and consider your offer seriously. Buyers not pre-approved will often not have their offers considered, as pre-approved buyers have the upper hand. This can cause you to lose out on the home of your dreams. Remember, you don’t want to make ANY large purchases, or make changes to your financial picture during the home buying process.
  3. Start looking at homes that meet your requirements with your real estate agent!  This is such a fun and exciting time. Make sure your list of wants and needs is clearly defined. You’ll also want to have a list of what you may be willing to forego if you find a home that meets most of your needs.
  4. Making an offer on the perfect home. Your real estate agent/team is your fiduciary and will help you craft the optimum offer based on your personal situation, the home price, market conditions and more.  Once accepted, you’ll move into the due diligence phase
  5. Due diligence. This is the phase where you’ll have your inspections and have ample time to remove any contingencies that were placed on the offer you placed. Usually this includes the Home Inspections, Appraisal, and gaining home insurance on the property.
  6. After this date you will receive the final mortgage approval.
  7. Next is the final walk-through of the home you are purchasing. This is done to verify that the condition of the home hasn’t changed and that all repairs and updates have been completed accordingly. This normally takes place 24 hours prior to closing.
  8. CLOSING!!! You get the keys to your new home. CONGRATULATIONS!!

Purchasing a home, whether it’s your first or last, is such an exciting time. And whether you’re a seasoned pro or first-timer, questions always arise. Put our team’s knowledge to work for you. Our vast array of resources is second to none and we’re here to assist you at every step. Ready to MAKE A MOVE?  Contact us today.

 

HOT PROPERTY OF THE WEEK!


916 LOS PADRES PLACE SE, ALBUQUERQUE, NM

Welcome to the desirable community of Willow Wood. Pride of ownership shows how well the home has been cared for throughout. Wonderful open floor plan, flooded w/natural light. The kitchen & heartbeat of the home is a true gathering place w/breakfast nook, stainless appliances, ample cabinets, countertops & oversized pantry w/extra storage, opens to the great room featuring a Fireplace and soaring ceilings. Step outside to enjoy the lush, colorful yard full of mature plantings w/drip system. Upstairs, enjoy the oversized Primary bedroom w/a walkout balcony. 3 more spacious bdrms & 2nd full bath. Additional amenities, features water softener, lots of storage, pad and electric to add a hot tub. Conveniently located near Kirtland AFB, Sandia Labs, shopping, Foothills, trails, & I40.


GET YOUR MORNING INSPIRATION WITH THE Sandi Pressley TEAM!


 

Preparing Financially to Purchase a Home

by Sandi Pressley



Congratulations, you’ve decided you’re ready to purchase a home. It’s such an exciting time and you want to dive right into looking at homes, but you need to slow down and prepare accordingly.

Purchasing a home is a big decision and a huge financial step, so you want to make sure you are fully prepared financially to be in a position to get the home you want, and can afford, at the best rates possible.  Of course, if you have an abundance of cash at your disposal and can offer cash for the house, then you won’t need to read further, but for most of us, planning is crucial.

So, let’s break down the process to ensure your success.

  1. Get your finances in order. Make sure you are ready to meet with a lender to get your pre-approval. Check your credit ahead of time just so you know where your credit score stands. You can utilize sites such as Credit Karma or Credit Sesame to get a good overview. If you find issues, it is better to take time to repair those issues before seeing your lender.
  2. Down payment and closing costs- How much have you saved toward your down payment and closing costs?  The more you can put down, the less you need to finance. Thus, making your payments lower each month. You’ll also need to budget for closing costs, which are typically 2-5% of the total cost of the home purchase price.
  3. Getting your Pre-Approval. This is the key. The housing market is tight right now, meaning inventory is low so there are more buyers per home. You need to make sure you are pre-approved for your loan amount- not only so you know exactly what you can spend, but so the sellers know you are serious, qualify for the loan, and can purchase the home. Often buyers who are not pre-approved will not have their offer even considered.
  4. Once you are pre-approved for a home loan, it is very important that you do not make any large purchases or take out any loans, credit cards, etc. You need to keep your credit profile clean and consistent with where it was when approval was made. You’ll want to continue making all payments on current rent, mortgages, car, credit cards, etc on time.
  5. Your real estate agent partner is also your fiduciary in the real estate transaction and is there to protect your interests every step of the way. This is why it is critical to partner with an agent/team that is experienced and knowledgeable in the local market and the field. Small mistakes can be costly ones.

At the Sandi Pressley Team we’re here to help you realize your dream of homeownership and partner with the best lenders, inspectors, attorney’s, appraisers and more in this industry to offer the most complete services to our clients.  Ready to make your DREAM COME TRUE?  Call us today.

 

HOT LISTING OF THE WEEK!


13908 INDIAN SCHOOL ROAD NE, ALBUQUERQUE, NM

Stunning home in the foothills with incredible views! SOLAR OWNED! POOL & HOT TUB! TWO PRIMARY SUITES! So many upgrades! Amazing outdoor living space with heated pool, hot tub, outdoor kitchen, wood burning fireplace, covered patios & balconies with mountain views & city lights! Grand staircase, open floorplan with lots of natural light! Entertainer's kitchen has Quartz countertops, backsplash, island, walk-in pantry, induction cooktop, wall oven, butler pantry/bar, sink & wine fridge! Beautifully updated flooring. The luxurious primary suite features private balcony with views, gas fireplace, his/her closets, separate study/office, jetted tub, two-way fireplace & separate shower. 2nd primary suite on the main level w/private bath & access to pool. Secondary bedrooms have Jack-N-Jill bath! 3CG with storage & workshop

 

GET YOUR MORNING INSPIRATION WITH THE Sandi Pressley TEAM!




What an exciting time! Your moving day is fast approaching, and your excitement level and anxiety is starting to run high. Instead of tackling the organizing, packing, and moving ALL of your belongings on your own, consider the services of a professional moving company. Here’s why:

  1. Professional movers have the know-how, equipment, and efficiency needed to get the job done smoothly and on time. If you need assistance with packing items- especially fragile, collectibles, electronics, etc, they’ll be sure to bring all the necessary supplies to safely pack and secure these items for the move so that you’ll rest easy in knowing they’ll arrive safely to your new destination.
  2. With years of experience and training on their side, professional movers not only have the equipment (dollies, ramps, lifts, and protective devices) to safely move all your belongings from house to truck and house again, they know how to navigate the larger items through narrow spaces, doorways, and trickier layouts of homes. They’ll also wrap larger items like furniture, mattresses, appliances and electronics so nothing is dented or scratched during the moving process.  Giving you much better protection for all your belongings.
  3. Did you know that professional movers keep an inventory of all boxes, furniture, and items they are moving on your behalf? In the chaos of the moving process, it is very easy to lose track of boxes and items. Having a company accountable for your belongings takes a weight off of your shoulders…and you know it will arrive at your new home.
  4. Save your health! That’s right. Do you know how many injuries have happened during the moving process? From sprains to pulled muscles, broken bones and more. Even the simple strain of up and down stairs and lifting heavy furniture can tweak your back or legs and put your out of commission. Why chance an injury or time off work when you can have the professionals handle things for you?
  5. Movers will save you much valuable time and money. If you evaluate the amount of money spent on supplies needed to ready your belongings, truck rental, rental of dollies, lifts, and other accessories, and the sheer amount of time and energy that will go into moving on your own- not to mention the stress factor- you come out ahead using the services of a moving company.
  6. Your family and friends will THANK YOU…and still invite you over for get-to-gathers! All joking aside, it can be difficult to call on family and friends to help with moving. While many will offer their help, or kindly answer YES, it is always a dreaded task for anyone. Plus, utilizing movers allows you time to get to your new home and ready it for the arrival of your personal belongings without the stress and exhaustion of having to do the move yourself.

Enjoy the process of moving into your new HOME! Don’t add in stress and anxiety by doing the entire move yourself. You deserve a break at this joyous time, so take it!

Looking for some great, trusted Moving Professionals in the Albuquerque area?  Reach out to our team.

 

HOT LISTING OF THE WEEK!


1340 CHIHUAHUA ROAD NE, RIO RANCHO, NM

Move-In Ready Custom Brick Home w/detached Workshop/Garage situated on half acre Rio Rancho lot! Custom built & lovingly cared for by original owners! Boasting amazing Sandia Mountain views and thoughtful architectural details throughout. Featuring a gated entry; raised ceilings; plantation shutters throughout; 2 Master Suites; 2 living areas with bonus Rec room; both formal and informal dining options; family room w/cozy fireplace opens to kitchen with eat at bar; huge east facing covered patio for cool summer evenings & ideal for outdoor entertaining. Roof re-shingled April 2023! RV parking with amp service adjacent to the 888 Sq Ft detached Workshop/Garage with single garage door that can easily tandem park 2 vehicles, & ideal for hobbyist, car enthusiast, or other possible endeavors.


GET YOUR MORNING INSPIRATION WITH THE Sandi Pressley TEAM!


How To Cope With Rising Home Prices In Albuquerque

by Sandi Pressley

Real estate prices in the Albuquerque market are expected to rise at a steady pace throughout 2019. In fact, Albuquerque home values have gone up 4.2% over the past year and Zillow predicts they will rise 2.6% within the next year. If you're considering moving to Albuquerque, there are a few creative ways to cope with rising housing costs and get into your dream home sooner rather than later.

Consider Nearby or Adjacent ZIP Codes

The old adage in real estate is “location, location, location,” but often the location is the very thing that makes certain ZIP codes so pricey. When looking into a desirable area, consider the nearby or adjacent neighborhoods to scout for more affordable finds. The good news is that if your house is near a pricier area, home prices are expected to remain strong or even rise as demand for the area increases.

Purchase a Foreclosure or Fixer-Upper

Purchasing a foreclosure or home that needs a little work is a smart move if you want to buy into a more expensive neighborhood and stay in your price range.

Fixer-uppers can yield significant discounts in major urban areas, as much as 40% to 50%, according to research conducted by realtor.com, but inventory may be low, and the competition may be fierce.

Consider a Roommate

If you can afford a home but are concerned about what the monthly payment will do to your lifestyle (and budget) consider renting out rooms in your house to a long-term roommate or on housing-share apps.

This way, your housing payment gets covered and any extra can go toward paying down the mortgage, paying off student loans, or maintaining your lifestyle.

Try a Starter Home Before Thinking of a Forever Home

Think about what you really need in a first-home purchase as opposed to what you fantasize about having. With so many first-time buyers now delaying home ownership until their early 30’s (when a family and kids comes along), many skip the notion of the starter home and leap right into the forever home - often at a cost.

Starting small allows buyers to start putting housing payments into equity, not rent. Should property values rise, after a few years a buyer would then be able to upgrade into something bigger or more practical for their lifestyle.

Also keep in mind that just because you qualify for a loan amount, it doesn’t mean you have to borrow the maximum. When shopping for homes, be sure to find something that sits comfortably in your budget once you factor in insurance, taxes, home maintenance, and even discretionary funds.

While these tips may not land a first-time buyer in their ideal neighborhood straight away, equity (the amount of your house that you “own”) builds over time and works in favor of the buyer. Remember: With time and patience, many may be able to cash in on the equity in their first home and move into their ideal square footage or location.

Looking to find the perfect home in Albuquerque? Let us help you find the perfect home in Albuquerque. And make sure to join us twice a week on our blog for more 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!

7 Chamisa Road, Placitas, NM  $468,000

3 Bedrooms / 3 Bathrooms (2 full, 1 half) / 2500 Square Feet

Southwest Style custom home on incredible 2 acre lot with stunning views. Exquisite tile & woodwork throughout. Well appointed kitchen with SS appliances, granite counters, large pantry and island. New Carpet in 2019, new Paint in bedrooms and entry 2017, Refrigerated air, raised ceilings, open floor plan, skylights and lighted niches make this home perfect for entertaining. Private master suite has private balcony access, double sinks w/jetted tub, separate shower and a huge walk-in closet. Backyard has covered patio, water feature, fire-pit and mature landscaping. Over-sized 3 car garage, water softener, central vac system, upgraded sinks and faucets, brand new septic in 2013, the list just goes on!

Contact the Sandi Pressley team for additional details! 

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Home Inspection Mistakes to Avoid For Your Home in Albuquerque

by Sandi Pressley

If you plan to buy or sell a home in Albuquerque, the home inspection is a crucial part of the process. A good home inspection will assess the condition of the home, letting you know what problems need to be addressed before the home is sold, and what potential issues may arise later on down the road.

What are some mistakes you can avoid when getting a home inspection?

  1. Not researching the inspector

Many people are inclined to hire the first inspector that’s been recommended to them, failing to check the inspector’s background and record.  Remember that the inspection is only as good as the inspector.

Here are some important questions to ask a potential inspector:

  • How long have you been in business?
  • How many home inspections have you done?
  • What are your qualifications, certifications and training?
  • What was your job before you were a home inspector? (Preferably, you want someone who was a contractor or builder.)

You should also be sure that the home inspector receives ongoing training and is up to date. They need to be able to explain the home’s good and bad points so that you can make the best decisions possible.

  1. Not attending the inspection

There’s nothing saying you must attend the inspection, but it’s an ideal way to understand any issues the inspector finds.  Just reading the report isn’t enough sometimes.  Seeing the issues as they’re revealed and having them explained will give you much more valuable information.  Even though an inspection may take a few hours, it’s well worth your time as it could save you a great deal of money.

  1. Not getting a presale inspection

If you’re the seller, you may be tempted to leave the inspection to the buyer. That’s not the wisest course. If the buyer’s inspection reveals repairs that are needed to make the sale, you won’t have as much time to make the needed repairs. But if you have your home inspected before you put it on the market, you’ll have more time and will have more control over the costs. And make sure to get your home inspected long before you try to sell it.

A good home inspection is crucial to buying a home, so make sure you find the best inspector you can.

Search for your dream home in Albuquerque with our easy to use home search. Check back on our blog every week for more real estate advice and local articles about living in Albuquerque. And make sure to follow us on Facebook for up to date real estate news for Albuquerque and surrounding areas.

HOT HOME LISTING OF THE WEEK!

6708 Baker Avenue NE, Albuquerque, NM 87109  $205,000

2 Bedrooms / 2 Bathrooms (1 full, 1 half) / 1529 Square Feet

Excellent location! 2BDR/2BA/plus office townhome in Los Trechos! Many updates! REFRIGERATED AIR! Updated furnace, water heater and ROOF! Updated stucco (2013) Two large bedrooms plus a beautiful built-in office addition with cabinets & desk. Light & bright atrium for plants! Bath features a therapy tub! Kitchen has bkfst nook and all appliances stay! Private patio can be accessed from the master bedroom and living room. Convenient location close to shopping, restaurants, parks and transportation!!

Contact the Sandi Pressley team for additional details! 

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

Moving in Albuquerque With Pets

by Sandi Pressley

If you've ever moved, you know it can be a stressful time for people. But just imagine how stressful it can be for pets. It's a huge change to their environment that they aren't expecting or understand, especially if the home you're moving from is the only one they've ever known. So how do you make the experience less stressful? There’s no way to remove all the stress for you and your beloved pets, but you can take some steps to make the transition for bearable.

Here’s a few tips you can try.

Prepare for the First Few Days

The first few days of unpacking can be the rather stressful, so make an ‘overnight kit’ that has enough food, litter, toys and other needed items to keep your pets comfortable.

Keep Them Out of the Action

It's best if you can keep your pets with a friend or in a kennel during the move. But if that's not an option, at least keep them in a quiet space. If there’s an empty room in your new home or garage you can keep clear, then that is ideal. Check on them regularly and try to stick with feeding and walking routines.

Talk to Your Vet

If you’re moving to another area and need a new vet, contact your current vet to obtain records and prescriptions if any.  See if they can recommend a vet in your new area.

Move Them in Your Own Vehicle

Your pets, especially dogs, are used to your family vehicle. Your pets will take the changes better if they ride with you and not in a moving van or with other people. You may want to throw a blanket over their carrier so they can’t see the changing environment.

Keep Them Inside

Don’t let your dog or cat outside until you get to your new home, as they can get lost if they get away from you. Do this even if your dog is normally well behaved. They need a few days to adjust to their new neighborhood and environment.

Move the House Before Your Pets

The more of the house you can have moved and set up before you move your pets, the better. Try to set up one room first to move them into and keep them there to let them adjust.  Give them plenty of love and attention and toys to make them feel at ease in their new home.

Moving is never easy, but if you prepare, you can make it easier for your furry family.

Search for your dream home in Albuquerque with our easy to use home search. Check back on our blog every week for more real estate advice and local articles about living in Albuquerque. And make sure to follow us on Facebook for up to date real estate news for Albuquerque and surrounding areas.

HOT HOME LISTING OF THE WEEK!

1005 Quincy Street SE, Albuquerque, NM 87108  $210,000

3 Bedrooms / 1 Bathrooms (1 full) / 1105 Square Feet

UNM South 3BDRs/1BA/1CG HUGE BACKYARD!!! WOW! Beautifully REMODELED KITCHEN with Quartz countertops, new cabinetry, SS appliances, recessed lighting! NEW ROOF! (2018) Updated windows! Hardwood floors!! Huge backyard features a pergola covered patio, grass, trees & mature landscaping & walled for privacy & plenty of room to entertain family & friends!! Excellent location UNM South, close to parks, schools, shopping, UNM & Nob Hill!!

Contact the Sandi Pressley team for additional details! 

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$499,000

Critical Questions Buyers Should Ask Before Moving In

by Sandi Pressley

Moving into a new home is an exciting time.  But it can be frustrating.  As you're getting to know your new place, you're going to be running into things that you didn't know about before you moved in.  But many surprises can be avoided if you ask the right questions of the seller. Sure, you may get details from the home inspection and disclosure, but why not talk to the people who have lived there already? Just make sure to ask these questions at the end of the selling process, as the seller might think their answers would make the sale not go through.

What Are Past Problems That Were Fixed?

Even though existing problems are disclosed in the seller's statement, it doesn't reveal what past problems may have been fixed.  Use the disclosure as a place to start when asking to learn what wasn't listed.

Switch and Valve Locations

The home inspector may not always show you where all the valves and circuit breakers are.  Especially if it's an older or larger home, just ask the seller where everything is and if there's anything special about their operation.

Ask About the Neighborhood

This may be a loaded question, but you'll usually get the best of both worlds and everything in between.  That's OK, because it can help you keep your move-in experience more enjoyable.  You'll know what to expect and hopefully help make new friends with your neighbors. 

 

HOT HOME LISTING OF THE WEEK!

10 Caminito Trail, Placitas   $395,000

3 Bedrooms/ 2 Bathrooms/ 2580 Square Feet

This amazing culdesac property features unobstructed views of the mountains and open floorplans with stunning raised ceilings.

Contact the Sandi Pressley team for additional details! 

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The Sandi Pressley Team
Coldwell Banker Legacy
10400 Academy Rd. NE Suite 100
Albuquerque NM 87111
505-980-2999
505-263-2173 / 505 293-3700
Fax: 505-212-0729

Quick links to this site are also SandiSells.net or SandiSellsHomes.com