Real Estate Information Archive

Being underwater on your mortgage for your Albuquerque home, where the balance you owe is greater than the value of your home, can feel like a daunting and isolating experience. However, it's important to remember that you have options and there are strategies you can employ to navigate this challenging financial situation.

Refinance Your Mortgage

Refinancing could be a viable option if you're eligible. This process involves taking out a new mortgage with better terms, which could lead to lower interest rates and monthly payments. It's essential to consider closing costs and how long you plan to stay in your home before deciding if refinancing is right for you.

Loan Modification

A loan modification is a negotiation process with your lender where you can discuss altering the terms of your loan. This might include extending the duration of your mortgage, reducing the interest rate, or even forgiving a portion of the principal. Each lender has different policies and programs for modification, so direct communication is key.

Short Sale

In a short sale, you sell your Albuquerque home for less than the outstanding mortgage balance with the consent of your lender. This can be a complex process that requires approval from all parties involved, including potential buyers and any secondary lenders if you have more than one loan on the property.

Deed in Lieu of Foreclosure

Offering a deed in lieu of foreclosure means voluntarily transferring ownership of your property to the lender as an alternative to foreclosure. While this can relieve you from the mortgage debt, it's important to understand that it may have tax consequences and impact your credit score.

Seek Legal Advice

Consulting with a real estate attorney or financial advisor can provide valuable insights into your situation. They can help you understand the legal implications of each option and guide you towards making an informed decision.

Government Programs

Investigate government programs designed to assist homeowners in distress. Programs like HARP (Home Affordable Refinance Program) or HAMP (Home Affordable Modification Program) may offer solutions if you meet their eligibility criteria.

Budgeting and Financial Planning

Take a close look at your finances and consider creating a budget that accounts for your reduced home value. Financial planning might also involve prioritizing expenses, cutting non-essential costs, and exploring additional income streams.

Remember, being proactive is crucial when dealing with an underwater mortgage. Explore every avenue, communicate openly with your lender, and seek professional advice to find the best path forward.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

Incredible 3BDR/2BA home with so many upgrades built by Abrazo Homes! Gorgeous upgraded tile flooring throughout the main living, kitchen, baths, hall & utility rooms! Luxury kitchen pkg w/upgraded raised panel cabinetry & crown molding, new microwave & dishwasher (2023), gas stove, pantry, recessed lighting! Primary suite features new shower (approx 1yr), raised dual sink vanity, garden tub, large walk-in closet w/extra shelving. Secondary bdrs w/walk-in closets! Cabinets & counter in utility room! Navien tankless water heater! Recirculating Pump! Anderson windows! Front storm door! Insulated garage & garage door w/workbench & extra outlets! Expanded covered & open patio for entertaining! Great location, close to parks, schools, shopping, Cottonwood Mall!

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!

Albuquerque, a city known for its unique blend of Spanish, Native American, and Anglo cultures, truly comes to life in the spring. As the chill of winter dissipates, the city's natural beauty and cultural vibrancy take center stage, offering an array of activities for locals and visitors alike. Here are some ways you can take advantage of Spring in Albuquerque.

Outdoor Adventures

Hiking the Sandia Mountains: The Sandia Mountains offer a diverse range of trails that cater to all levels of hikers. From the gentle paths at the base to the challenging La Luz Trail leading to the peak, there's an adventure waiting at every turn.

Hot Air Balloon Rides: Albuquerque is world-renowned for its hot air ballooning. The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta may be in fall, but spring offers clear skies and favorable winds for those looking to float above the city's enchanting landscape.

Sandia Peak Tramway: Take a ride on the tramway for breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding natural beauty. Spring is an ideal time to hike the trails at the top.

Rio Grande Nature Center State Park: Ideal for bird watchers and nature lovers, the park offers guided walks and educational talks during spring.

Biking Along the Paseo del Bosque Trail: This 16-mile trail offers stunning views and a flat path, perfect for a leisurely bike ride.

Cultural Experiences

Albuquerque Museum: This spring, the museum features an extensive collection of Southwestern art, as well as exhibits on the area's fascinating history from the Native American and Spanish colonial eras.

Old Town Stroll: Albuquerque's Old Town is a living museum. With buildings dating back to the 1700s, it's a place where history is preserved and shared through tours, shops, and restaurants.

Festivals and Events

Gathering of Nations: This event is not just a powwow; it's a gathering of over 700 tribes from across North America celebrating their traditions through music, dance, and crafts. This year it takes place from April 25-27, 2024.

New Mexico Wine Festival: Sample wines from across New Mexico's wine country. The festival also offers live music, food pairings, and wine education sessions. The event takes place from May 25 - 27, 2024.

Culinary Delights

Seasonal Cuisine: Albuquerque's culinary scene embraces spring with open arms. Restaurants feature dishes made with ingredients like blue corn and chile that are staples of New Mexican cuisine.

Farmers Markets: The markets are more than just a place to buy food; they're community hubs where you can meet local farmers, try new foods, and participate in cooking demonstrations.

Nature and Wildlife

Rio Grande Nature Center State Park: A haven for nature lovers, this park offers trails along the Rio Grande, birdwatching opportunities, and educational programs about the local ecosystem.

ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden: Explore over 36 acres of gardens showcasing native plants and flowers that bloom beautifully in spring.

Spring in Albuquerque offers endless opportunities to engage with nature, immerse yourself in culture, savor delicious food, and celebrate life. It's a time when the city not only thaws out but also throws open its doors in a warm welcome to all.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

Incredible 3BDR/2BA home with so many upgrades built by Abrazo Homes! Gorgeous upgraded tile flooring throughout the main living, kitchen, baths, hall & utility rooms! Luxury kitchen pkg w/upgraded raised panel cabinetry & crown molding, new microwave & dishwasher (2023), gas stove, pantry, recessed lighting! Primary suite features new shower (approx 1yr), raised dual sink vanity, garden tub, large walk-in closet w/extra shelving. Secondary bdrs w/walk-in closets! Cabinets & counter in utility room! Navien tankless water heater! Recirculating Pump! Anderson windows! Front storm door! Insulated garage & garage door w/workbench & extra outlets! Expanded covered & open patio for entertaining! Great location, close to parks, schools, shopping, Cottonwood Mall!

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!

Buying a home in Albuquerque is a big decision, especially if it's your first time. There are many factors to consider, such as location, budget, financing, inspection, and negotiation. If you're looking for some tips to help you navigate the process of buying your first home in Albuquerque, you've come to the right place. Here are some of the most important things to keep in mind as you embark on this exciting journey.

1. Do your research.

Before you start looking for homes, you should have a clear idea of what you want and what you can afford. You can use online tools to search for homes that match your criteria, such as size, style, features, and price range. You can also browse through local listings and compare different neighborhoods and communities. You should also research the market trends and the average home prices in Albuquerque to get a sense of what to expect.

2. Get pre-approved.

One of the first steps to buying a home is getting pre-approved for a mortgage. This means that a lender will check your credit history, income, assets, and debts and determine how much they are willing to lend you. Getting pre-approved will help you narrow down your options and show sellers that you are serious and ready to buy. It will also give you an edge over other buyers who may not have this advantage.

3. Hire a real estate agent. B

uying a home can be overwhelming and complicated, especially if you're new to the process. That's why it's advisable to hire a professional real estate agent who can guide you through every step and represent your best interests. A good agent will help you find the right home for your needs, negotiate the best deal, handle the paperwork, and resolve any issues that may arise along the way. Sandi Pressley and her team have been helping people find thier ideal home for decades and can do the same for you.

4. Make a smart offer.

Once you find the home of your dreams, you'll need to make an offer that reflects its value and your budget. Your agent will help you determine a fair and competitive offer based on the market conditions, the condition of the home, and the seller's motivation. You'll also need to decide on other terms and contingencies, such as closing date, earnest money deposit, inspection period, and appraisal contingency. Your offer should be clear, concise, and attractive to the seller.

5. Have the home inspected.

After your offer is accepted, you'll need to have the home inspected by a qualified professional. A home inspection is a thorough examination of the physical structure and systems of the home, such as plumbing, electrical, heating, cooling, roofing, foundation, and more. The inspector will identify any defects or issues that may affect the safety or value of the home. You'll receive a detailed report with photos and recommendations for repairs or improvements. You can use this report to negotiate with the seller or back out of the deal if there are major problems.

6. Close the deal.

The final step to buying your first home in Albuquerque is closing the deal. This is when you sign all the necessary documents, pay the closing costs, and get the keys to your new home. The closing process can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks depending on various factors. You'll need to work closely with your agent, lender, title company, and escrow company to ensure everything goes smoothly and on time.

Congratulations! You've just bought your first home in Albuquerque! Now it's time to celebrate and enjoy your new place.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

Save time & money over new construction on this turn-key, less than 2 year old home! Like-new kitchen w/sparkling white quartz counters, tile backsplash, stainless appliances & on-trend light gray cabinets w/crystal glass pulls. Wood-look plank tile in kitchen & baths, carpet in living & bedrooms. Living/dining/kitchen combo for open-floorpan comfort. Big walled backyard ready for your creative vision. Landscaped front yard with drip system for low-maintenance yard care. Light & bright primary suite with double sinks, big shower, and huge walk-in closet. 2 spacious spare bedrooms, full spare bath, and two car garage. Smart home alarm system, refrigerated air and low-e windows for energy efficiency and the utmost comfort; even on the coldest winter nights & the hottest summer afternoons.

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!

Color is a powerful tool that can affect our mood, energy and well-being. Different colors can evoke different emotions and feelings, such as happiness, calmness, excitement or sadness. In this blog post, we will explore how to use color to boost emotion and well-being in your Albuquerque home.

First, let's look at some general guidelines for choosing colors for your home. According to color psychology, warm colors such as red, orange and yellow are stimulating and energizing, while cool colors such as blue, green and purple are soothing and relaxing. However, this does not mean that you should paint your entire home in one color scheme. Instead, you should consider the function and purpose of each room and choose colors that match the desired mood and atmosphere.

For example, if you want to create a cozy and inviting living room, you might opt for warm colors such as beige, brown or burgundy. These colors can make the space feel more comfortable and welcoming, as well as stimulate conversation and social interaction. On the other hand, if you want to create a serene and peaceful bedroom, you might choose cool colors such as lavender, blue or gray. These colors can help you relax and unwind, as well as promote restful sleep and reduce stress.

Another factor to consider when choosing colors for your home is the amount of natural light that enters the space. Natural light can enhance or diminish the effect of colors, depending on the time of day and the direction of the windows. For example, if your room faces east or west, it will receive more sunlight in the morning or evening, respectively. This means that warm colors will appear brighter and more vibrant, while cool colors will appear duller and darker. Conversely, if your room faces north or south, it will receive more consistent light throughout the day. This means that warm colors will appear softer and more muted, while cool colors will appear clearer and more vivid.

Therefore, you should choose colors that complement the natural light in your room, rather than clash with it. For example, if your room receives a lot of sunlight in the morning, you might want to avoid bright yellow or orange walls, as they might be too overwhelming and intense. Instead, you might opt for a softer shade of yellow or peach, or a neutral color such as white or cream. Similarly, if your room receives little natural light, you might want to avoid dark blue or purple walls, as they might make the space feel cold and gloomy. Instead, you might choose a lighter shade of blue or lavender, or a warm color such as pink or coral.

Finally, you should also consider your personal preferences and tastes when choosing colors for your home. After all, you are the one who will live in it and enjoy it every day. Therefore, you should choose colors that make you happy and reflect your personality and style. You can also experiment with different combinations of colors and see how they affect your mood and well-being. You can use color swatches, paint samples or online tools to visualize how different colors would look in your home.

Color is a wonderful way to express yourself and create a beautiful and comfortable environment in your home. By following these tips on how to use color to boost emotion and well-being in your Albuquerque home, you can transform your space into a place that inspires you and makes you feel good.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

Save time & money over new construction on this turn-key, less than 2 year old home! Like-new kitchen w/sparkling white quartz counters, tile backsplash, stainless appliances & on-trend light gray cabinets w/crystal glass pulls. Wood-look plank tile in kitchen & baths, carpet in living & bedrooms. Living/dining/kitchen combo for open-floorpan comfort. Big walled backyard ready for your creative vision. Landscaped front yard with drip system for low-maintenance yard care. Light & bright primary suite with double sinks, big shower, and huge walk-in closet. 2 spacious spare bedrooms, full spare bath, and two car garage. Smart home alarm system, refrigerated air and low-e windows for energy efficiency and the utmost comfort; even on the coldest winter nights & the hottest summer afternoons.

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!

Just listed! Whether you desire a first home in Albuquerque or a roomier upgrade, these listings have it all. Both boast stunning views, prime locations, and abundant amenities. And both homes are less than 3 years old, meaning you get an almost new home as well without the worries that can come with older homes. Take a closer look now before they sell during this busy Spring Albuquerque real estate season!

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

Save time & money over new construction on this turn-key, less than 2 year old home! Like-new kitchen w/sparkling white quartz counters, tile backsplash, stainless appliances & on-trend light gray cabinets w/crystal glass pulls. Wood-look plank tile in kitchen & baths, carpet in living & bedrooms. Living/dining/kitchen combo for open-floorpan comfort. Big walled backyard ready for your creative vision. Landscaped front yard with drip system for low-maintenance yard care. Light & bright primary suite with double sinks, big shower, and huge walk-in closet. 2 spacious spare bedrooms, full spare bath, and two car garage. Smart home alarm system, refrigerated air and low-e windows for energy efficiency and the utmost comfort; even on the coldest winter nights & the hottest summer afternoons.

Learn More!

1056 Contabella Lane, Bernalillo, NM 87004

Gorgeous home nestled in the gated community of Portella Bellisimo on large, approximately .33 acre lot. Seller spent approximately 45K in upgrades! This 3 year young, very gently lived in gem features an open & bright floorplan with 4 spacious bedrooms all with walk in closets, of which includes 2 primary suites, ideal for in-laws, guests, etc.; PLUS a study/office. Raised ceilings; high end 20'' porcelain tile flooring; double sliding doors w/sidelight panels; high end lighting; tankless water heater; & more! Fine appointments grace the Chef's kitchen including beautiful quartz countertops & glass tile backsplash; high end SS appliances; walk-in pantry; & eat at bar that opens to adjacent dining & great room.

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.

When remodeling your kitchen in Albuquerque, the new cabinetry will likely be one of the most costly expenses.

Kitchen cabinets represent a significant part of a renovation, typically making up around 40% of the total budget. Two major factors influencing the cost of cabinets are their quality and construction.

Though cabinets are a long-term investment, how can you still save money when purchasing these essential fixtures?

Do Your Research

The first step to saving money on kitchen cabinets is to do your research and determine which features and construction elements are essential versus those you can live without.

For example, start by learning about the materials used to make cabinets. Particleboard is inexpensive but fragile, and does not hold up well to moisture, while more durable options like plywood may cost more upfront but last longer.

Medium-density fiberboard is often preferred because it strikes a balance between cost and performance. Compared to solid wood, it actually performs better. Medium-density fiberboard is very water-resistant and can easily withstand changes in humidity and temperature.

Though solid wood cabinets are beautiful, their high cost and sensitivity to environmental conditions make them impractical for some kitchens. For instance, fluctuations in temperature and moisture can ruin solid wood cabinets if not properly regulated.

Get Custom Doors and Pre-Made Boxes

Custom cabinet doors and inexpensive premade cabinet boxes offer a creative solution to get the high-end look of custom cabinets on a budget. By pairing custom doors with affordable cabinet boxes from IKEA or Home Depot, you can achieve the outward appearance of high-end custom cabinets for a fraction of the cost.

Premade cabinet doors can also be dressed up with unique hardware to feel more custom without the price tag. This flexible approach allows you to customize your cabinet look according to your style and budget.

Factory-made cabinets and less expensive pre-made options usually have built-in rails and are constructed from either particleboard with a veneer or medium-density fiberboard. When selecting cabinets, limit unnecessary extras like spice racks and pullouts, as too many custom additions or in-stock options with accessories can increase costs.

Get Unfinished Cabinets

If you choose unfinished cabinets, you will save money upfront, but you will still need to paint or stain them yourself later. Staining may be a DIY project, but painting likely requires hiring a professional. Calculate the cost of finishing to determine if the upfront savings are worth the extra work.

Use Open Shelving

If you want new cabinets but have a limited budget, consider open shelving instead of upper cabinets. This trendy look can save thousands of dollars yet still appears stylish and clean. Going without upper cabinets allows you to splurge on other kitchen upgrades while sticking to your budget.

Open shelving is not only more affordable but also keeps your kitchen feeling brighter and more spacious. This open design is especially effective in smaller, enclosed kitchens where too many upper cabinets can create a cramped ambiance.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

1056 Contabella Lane, Bernalillo, NM 87004

Gorgeous home nestled in the gated community of Portella Bellisimo on large, approximately .33 acre lot. Seller spent approximately 45K in upgrades! This 3 year young, very gently lived in gem features an open & bright floorplan with 4 spacious bedrooms all with walk in closets, of which includes 2 primary suites, ideal for in-laws, guests, etc.; PLUS a study/office. Raised ceilings; high end 20'' porcelain tile flooring; double sliding doors w/sidelight panels; high end lighting; tankless water heater; & more! Fine appointments grace the Chef's kitchen including beautiful quartz countertops & glass tile backsplash; high end SS appliances; walk-in pantry; & eat at bar that opens to adjacent dining & great room.

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!

Bringing a pet into your Albuquerque home is a big decision that requires thoughtful preparation. While pets can bring great joy, they may damage carpets, furniture, and upholstery during training. However, with some knowledge and planning, you can welcome a pet while keeping your home intact. Invest in this new family member by learning how to balance their needs and your belongings.

House training

The most critical way to protect your home is by properly training your pet. While time-consuming, training is vital for household harmony. If you lack the time, consider hiring a professional trainer. Housebreak pets early to prevent carpet stains. Accidents happen, but pet carpet cleaners can quickly remove stains and odors.

Pets that are happy and content are also less inclined to eliminate where they shouldn't. If your pet is normally well-behaved but has begun soiling areas inside the home or outside the litter box, this change in behavior may indicate stress or illness. Examine if there have been any alterations to your pet's routine or other symptoms of poor health. Consulting a veterinarian can help address abnormal behaviors like inappropriate elimination.

Cat scratch fever

When adopting a cat, it's important to understand their natural instinct to scratch surfaces in order to maintain their claws. While some cats are declawed to prevent damage, many animal welfare groups consider this practice inhumane. The most humane and effective approach is providing scratching posts, mats, or other approved surfaces that allow cats to satisfy their scratching needs. Observing your new cat's preferences will allow you to provide the scratching tools they like best, protecting your home furnishings while keeping your cat healthy and content.

To stop your cat from scratching furniture, reward them when they scratch appropriate surfaces. Scolding after the fact is ineffective, so monitor your cat closely until they reliably scratch only where allowed. Cats prefer rough, challenging surfaces that keep their claws healthy, not soft ones they can easily shred.

Dog destruction

Just like cats need to scratch, many dogs have a strong instinct to chew, dig, or otherwise destroy things. Keep your dog satisfied and your home (and shoes!) undamaged by always having plenty of dog toys available. Many chew toys are built to withstand serious chewing and will last a while. Be sure to replace them as your dog ruins them, or your dog may start chewing on other objects instead.

Another very effective way to protect your home is to keep your dog well-exercised. Depending on the breed, some dogs, particularly those with high energy levels or high intelligence, need mental and physical stimulation to prevent destructive behavior. Regularly exercise your dog as much as possible. With luck, a tired, content dog will have less desire to release pent-up energy on your home. Importantly, research breed traits before adopting. If you have limited time for exercise, consider breeds compatible with your lifestyle. Some dogs need more activity or space and may act out if their needs aren't met. Know your dog's requirements to ensure a happy home for both of you.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

12101 San Antonio Drive NE, Albuquerque, NM 87122

Welcome to your oasis in the heart of North Albuquerque Acres! This custom Helmick home has been recently updated to become sheer perfection. Greeted with gorgeous Sandstone floors, the foyer opens to a great room with soaring custom chandelier and oversized kiva fireplace. Hand-carved vigas, beams w/ corbels, plaster walls, and high-end quartz counters are just some of the endless amenities in this Pueblo-style home. The chef's kitchen has been recently updated with quartz and new finishes. Enjoy the dual-pantries, oversized island and gas cooktop along with a double-oven. ALL bathrooms have been renovated, including the spa-like primary bath with GORGEOUS marble shower and soaking tub. Featuring 5 bedrooms, ALL downstairs, plus an exercise room, there is room for everyone.

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 for the perfect place to retire? Check out what Albuquerque has to offer!

Albuquerque offers many benefits for retirees over 55 seeking an ideal retirement destination. Noted by experts as one of the best places to retire in the country, Albuquerque provides low bus fares, excellent healthcare, and services to help retirees enjoy life to the fullest. With its affordable transportation, top-notch medical care, and amenities tailored to retirees, it's clear why Albuquerque is a highly desirable place to retire.

Livability.com rated Albuquerque at #7 for the Best Places to Retire. They stated that “Albuquerque is one of the healthiest cities in the country with a high number of medical facilities, lots of exercise options and affordable housing." Add to that a dry climate and low cost of living, along with great recreation choices, and you can see what draws people over 55 to the area.

Here are some of the top towns in the Albuquerque area to retire according to Niche.com. Click the name to read the full review.

Sandia Heights
#1 Best Places to Retire in New Mexico

Boasting breathtaking views and a peaceful suburban atmosphere, Sandia Heights is a top community in New Mexico with a population of 3,205. Residents enjoy the area's plentiful parks, pleasant neighbors, and stunning sunsets. As one reviewer raves, "I have thoroughly enjoyed living in this part of Albuquerque, out of all the varying neighborhoods. It is a peaceful, quiet neighborhood, that is full of pleasant people. Aside from the lovely residents, the view is completely breathtaking! The sunsets are especially beautiful."

Search Homes For Sale in Sandia Heights

Corrales
#1 Best Places to Live in Sandoval County
#4 Best Places to Retire in New Mexico
#4 Best Suburbs to Live in New Mexico

With breathtaking views and a peaceful suburban vibe, Sandia Heights is a top New Mexico community of 3,337. Residents savor the ample parks, friendly neighbors, and stunning sunsets. As one happy resident exclaims, "We have now lived here 40 years and love it. I call it a little oasis a between Albuquerque and Rio Rancho. Much has changed over the years. The big cities have grown up to us, so we now are close to many more restaurants and stores. There people here are wonderful and many are very community minded."

Search Homes For Sale in Corrales

Placitas
#9 Best Places to Retire in New Mexico
#19 Best Suburbs to Live in New Mexico

Search Homes For Sale in Placitas

Are you thinking about spending your retirement years in beautiful Albuquerque? if so, make sure you rely on the experience of the Sandi Pressley Team to help find the perfect home to make your dream a reality.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

12101 San Antonio Drive NE, Albuquerque, NM 87122

Welcome to your oasis in the heart of North Albuquerque Acres! This custom Helmick home has been recently updated to become sheer perfection. Greeted with gorgeous Sandstone floors, the foyer opens to a great room with soaring custom chandelier and oversized kiva fireplace. Hand-carved vigas, beams w/ corbels, plaster walls, and high-end quartz counters are just some of the endless amenities in this Pueblo-style home. The chef's kitchen has been recently updated with quartz and new finishes. Enjoy the dual-pantries, oversized island and gas cooktop along with a double-oven. ALL bathrooms have been renovated, including the spa-like primary bath with GORGEOUS marble shower and soaking tub. Featuring 5 bedrooms, ALL downstairs, plus an exercise room, there is room for everyone.

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!

Homeowners in Albuquerque who want to sell their house should focus on several key things to make their home more appealing to buyers. To help ensure the marketability of a home, it is important that the home has an appealing aesthetic appearance and is in good repair.

Staging a Home for Marketability

When it comes to a home's interior, most sellers already know that an attractive, well-staged house will sell faster than one that just meets basic expectations. Statistics confirm this: staged Albuquerue homes and those with exceptional interior and exterior care sell quicker than average houses. This underscores the value of home staging.

Staging a home's interior is the process of enhancing and polishing its appearance to resemble a stylish magazine layout. It typically involves creating an elegant atmosphere by removing personal belongings and clutter, replacing some furnishings, and decorating with accessories for a polished look.

When staging the exterior of a home, owners can enhance curb appeal without a major financial investment. Simple improvements like planting flowers, trimming bushes, and freshening up the paint often cost just a few hundred dollars and some sweat equity, but make the yard and house exterior look more beautiful and inviting.

Improving the Home’s Exterior for a Sale

Many homeowners focus on the interior when trying to sell their home, but buyers pay equal attention to the exterior. A home's curb appeal and exterior aesthetics create the all-important first impression for potential buyers. An attractive, well-maintained exterior signals that the homeowner has cared for the whole property, not just the decorating details inside, making it more appealing to purchase.

Many homeowners have created outdoor living spaces to enhance their yards, reflecting a popular home trend. With some general clean-up, simple landscaping, patio furniture, and designated areas for relaxation, a yard can become an appealing extension of the home's living space. Well-designed outdoor areas allow potential buyers to envision entertaining, dining, or simply unwinding in the comfort of the backyard.

Basic Exterior Improvements and Maintenance

When designing an appealing outdoor living space to attract home buyers, it's wise to implement high-quality pest control. Homeowners should schedule annual pest control service to prevent infestations that could deter potential buyers. An outdoor area visibly overrun by insects can discourage home sales.

In addition, clearing the yard of debris may be crucial to deter infestations. Most homebuyers avoid properties needing major repairs upon move-in. Maintaining the yard throughout the sales process is advised.

Improving the home's exterior aesthetics can be achieved through small upgrades like planting shrubs and mulching at the entryway, repairing walkways, and painting or replacing the front door if needed. While they may seem minor, these inexpensive curb appeal enhancements can significantly improve the overall look and first impression of the home.

The bottom line when it comes to selling a home in Albuquerque is that first impressions make all the difference. The Sandi Pressley Team has decades of experience when it comes to selling homes in Albuquqerque. We can help you make your home more appealing to Albuquerque home buyers. Contact us today!

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

1272 La Fonda Street, Bernalillo, NM 87004

Awesome DR Horton 3BDR/3BA/2CG home with lots of living space featuring a huge great room, open kitchen & dining area with patio accessplus loft!! Covered porch! Tile Roof! Refrigerated Air! Large secondary bedrooms with walk-closets. Primary suite features a walk-in closet w/built-in shelving,dual sink vanity, separate shower & garden tub! Landscaped front yard, garden area in the backyard, ready to make your own outdoor living space! Greatlocation close to shopping, neighborhood parks, schools, Bosque trails & Rio Grande, and quick access to the Rail Runner in Bernalillo and to I-25 to Santa Fe!!

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!

Purchasing or selling a home in Albuquerque is a major financial decision involving various parties and risks. To ensure the real estate transaction goes smoothly, hire an experienced title company. They can conduct title searches, resolve title issues, and provide insurance for extra protection. Your real estate agent can also help negotiate a fair price based on market research and property values. However, there are compelling reasons to use a title company when buying or selling a home. Their services include title searches to confirm ownership, resolving any property title problems, and offering insurance for added security during the transaction.

Title Search Assistance

Conducting a title search prior to home purchase can reveal liens or other encumbrances that could cost you money later. Title companies will disclose any liens, preventing unwelcome surprises down the road. It's not uncommon for old liens to surface on a title report, as sellers are often unaware of them. Performing due diligence with a title search helps home buyers avoid inherited debt that could have been avoided.

Title Insurance

Title insurance is an important part of real estate transactions. It can cover legal costs and damages if someone claims ownership of your home after closing. Fortunately, title companies can help resolve any issues with your policy to ensure all claims are covered. Both buyers and lenders benefit from title insurance because it protects against financial losses stemming from undiscovered title defects after the sale. Getting title insurance safeguards your investment with an extra layer of security.

Smooth Closing

To smoothly close a real estate deal, hire a professional title company. They can facilitate the closing process by coordinating all relevant parties - realtors, lenders, attorneys - organizing documentation, reducing delays, and expediting the closing.

Breach of Contract

As with any form of transaction, there are situations where breaches may occur in the initial contract. With this in mind, you should consult a real title company when buying or selling your home, as they can offer assistance with contracts when you initiate a property purchase. This contract will hold every party accountable for completing each transaction aspect. Any party that fails to adhere to the sections of a contract may be liable for possible litigation.

To close your real estate transactions with confidence, contact a reputable title company now. They can manage the entire process from start to finish, whether you are buying or selling a property.

HOT ALBUQUERQUE LISTING OF THE WEEK

1272 La Fonda Street, Bernalillo, NM 87004

Awesome DR Horton 3BDR/3BA/2CG home with lots of living space featuring a huge great room, open kitchen & dining area with patio accessplus loft!! Covered porch! Tile Roof! Refrigerated Air! Large secondary bedrooms with walk-closets. Primary suite features a walk-in closet w/built-in shelving,dual sink vanity, separate shower & garden tub! Landscaped front yard, garden area in the backyard, ready to make your own outdoor living space! Greatlocation close to shopping, neighborhood parks, schools, Bosque trails & Rio Grande, and quick access to the Rail Runner in Bernalillo and to I-25 to Santa Fe!!

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!