Real Estate Information Archive

Blog

Displaying blog entries 211-220 of 232

How to Save Money on Your Kitchen Remodel

by Sandi Pressley

The kitchen is without question one of the most important rooms in any home, and a main selling point when selling your home in Albuquerque. In fact, it can make or break a deal. In fact, a home with a remodeled kitchen can sell up to 8% faster, according to Realtor.com.

In the "old days", the kitchen was kept in the background to reduce heat and control odors. Now, the kitchen is the center of attention in modern homes. That's why your kitchen is such an important room, and how it looks and operates makes such a huge difference.

If you plan to remodel your kitchen soon, here are some tips to help save money.

Choose mid-range efficient appliances 

There's no law saying you must buy the most expensive appliances for your kitchen, especially if you plan to sell your home soon. There's a great range of affordable, practical, energy-efficient appliances that look amazing.

When you choose your appliances, keep an eye on consistency of how they look together. In other words, try to stick with one brand and appearance. Stainless steel is the way to go, as it gives your kitchen a high-end and modern look.

Opt for affordable yet durable counter materials 

When home buyers walk into a kitchen, they will usually look at the counters first, since that's is where all the work happens, and they make up for most of the look of your kitchen. The counters should dictate the look of the rest of your kitchen, such as the cabinetry, room furnishings, and color scheme. 

To save money on granite countertops, you can get away with granite that has a rating of 2, as opposed to 3. This difference won't usually be noticed by most buyers, and can save you a good deal of money, offering a greater return on investment.

Another way to go is with laminate countertops. They look like granite, but without the higher cost. In the past, you wouldn't be able to install an under-mount sink in a laminate countertop, but designs have changed and now you can. Laminate hovers at an affordable $5 to $30/sq. ft.

Quartz (an engineered stone) and concrete countertops are other cost-saving options. The average cost of quartz is $55 to $200/sq. ft. and concrete runs $75 to $200/sq. ft. Resurfacing an older countertop with tile is another option. This project typically costs around $10 to $70/sq. ft. 

Go for a cosmetic upgrade instead of a whole cabinet replacement

When it comes to upgrading your cabinets, you don't have to replace them completely. A complete cabinet replacement can run into the thousands of dollars. Instead, think about resurfacing them. You can even make it a DIY project and save even more money.

If you absolutely need to replace your cabinets, you can go with veneer models instead of real wood. you can expect to spend around $70 to $100 per linear foot for budget cabinets.

When it comes to hardware for your cabinets, you can also save money, as you don't need to spend a ton of money. You can really define your price range with hardware, as you can spend as little as $1 for knobs and hinges.

Remodeling your kitchen is a great way to increase the value of your home. Just make sure you don't eat up that profit by spending too much.

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!

1541 Nez Perce Loop NE, Rio Rancho, NM 87144  $599,000

4 Bedrooms / 4 Bathrooms (2 full, 2 half) / 3644 Square Feet

Stunning Views! This home will WOW your buyers! Wide open floor plan with 2 living areas, perfect for entertaining. Gorgeous wood beam accents, custom kiva fireplace & large picture windows with mountain and city views. Well appointed kitchen features granite counter tops, custom cabinets & SS appliances. Brilliant floor plan offers 2 master suites, 2 additional spacious bedrooms and 2 bonus rooms, plus a formal dining room overlooking the wrap around balcony. Master suite is a gem has a picturesque jetted tub, separate snail shower & large walk in closet. Enjoy the views from your covered patio & wrap around balcony year round! New Septic and Well in 2017 - All New Paint inside and out 2019! Hardwood floors refinished 2019! New Driveway! This home is sure to impress!

Contact the Sandi Pressley team for additional details! 

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

 

Should You Downsize to a Smaller Home in Albuquerque?

by Sandi Pressley

Downsizing. It's a word that's been on more people's lips lately due to the economic situation we're living in now. Many people are thinking about how they can adjust their finances to ride this storm and be more secure. For those who own a home in Albuquerque, the thought of moving into a smaller and less expensive home has stood out as a way to make better use of income now, and in the future.

Traditionally, downsizing was a decision that mostly retired homeowners were faced with. Now, virtually all of us need to consider it. But is downsizing your home the right move for you? Here are some pros and cons to consider before you abandon your home for a smaller one in Albuquerque.

Pro: You Can Make Money Selling Your Stuff

Moving into a smaller home means that you will need to shed some possessions. You can sell your more expensive items using Facebook, Craigslist, or Ebay. Depending on social distancing restrictions in the future, you can have a garage sale. Whatever is left to dispense of can be donated.

Con: Purging Can Be Exhausting

Selling your personal items does take a good deal of time (which you may have more of now anyways), but it can be exhausting. Just deciding what to get rid of can be emotionally draining.

Pro: Live in a More Desirable Neighborhood in Albuquerque

As a smaller home in Albuquerque will probably cost less, this can give you an opportunity to move to a neighborhood in Albuquerque that better fits your new lifestyle. You can check out the top neighborhoods in Albuquerque and search for homes on our blog.

Pro: Fewer Costs and Less Upkeep

If you move into a less expensive home in Albuquerque, you can save any profit you make in the move. And you'll probably also save more money on utilities. If you shop wisely, you can find a more energy efficient home that will help you save money down the road. Plus, you'll have a smaller home to upkeep, saving even more money.

Con: The Costs of Moving

Depending on how far you move and if you hire professionals, moving could cost you a lot of money, not to mention effort and time. Plus, there's the time and effort to put your home on the market and go through the selling process, and then to find your new home.

Con: Less Space

With less space to work with, you'll need to be more selective about what you buy. Living in small quarters means constantly making a series of trade-offs. 

Downsizing is a big decision, but one that can make a positive impact on your life. If you carefully weigh the costs and benefits, you can make a good decision when it comes to downsizing to a smaller home in Albuquerque.

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!

400 Penny Lane, Corrales, NM 87048  $550,000

4 Bedrooms / 3 Bathrooms (3 full, 0 half) / 2275 Square Feet

Spectacular Sandia Mountains & Valley Views from this incredible 4BDR/3BA/3CG Corrales home! Enjoy the picturesque views from the great room, sunny breakfast nook, dining room, master suite & balcony! Open great room features wood ceiling, cozy kiva fireplace. Kitchen features granite countertops, beautiful cabinetry, island, bkfst bar, SS appliances, brick flooring. Study/Office/BDR and full Bath on the main floor. Two secondary bdrs share a Jack N Jill bath. Master suite features a double sided fireplace, East facing covered balcony, jetted tub, dual sink vanity and walk-in closet. Fully fenced property with gate entrance, lush grass, fruit trees, waterfall feature, raised beds, covered patio & balcony with amazing mountain and bosque views!

Contact the Sandi Pressley team for additional details! 

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

 

Check Out These Hot Albuquerque Properties

by Sandi Pressley

If you’re a regular reader of our blogs, you’ve no doubt noticed a “Featured Hot Property” at the end of every article. These are some of the hottest properties in the Albuquerque real estate market. Here’s a roundup of some of our latest properties currently on the Albuquerque market. If you have any questions about these fine properties, always feel free to contact Sandi Pressley and her team at 505-263-2173. You can check out all of our listings on our Featured Listings page.

6038 DEL CAMPO Place NE, Albuquerque, NM 87109

$159,000

Lovingly tended and cared for charming townhouse! Courtyard with gate for privacy. New furnace and refrigerated air unit. New carpet and tile in bathrooms! Large living area with lots of natural light. Backyard has covered and open patio. New Roof 2019, HOA Covers Exterior of Residence- Roof, Stucco, Pool, Club house Etc!

Learn More!

11705 Golden Gate Court NE, Albuquerque, NM 87111

$250,000

Outstanding 3bdr, one level, Double Brick, Holiday Park Custom Ranch Home! Tremendous functional floorplan! Brand new appliances in the kitchen. Kitchen opens to the family room with cozy gas fireplace. Pride of ownership shows throughout this home!! Front yard features a convenient circular driveway. Two large lovely covered patios in the big backyard. Desirable location, NE Heights comfort and convenience located close to schools, medical, shopping, gym, restaurants Labs & KAFB. Come see this classic well maintained home today!

Learn More!

1240 Blanca Avenue NW, Los Lunas, NM 87031

$450,000

Beautiful custom home located in a cul-de-sac and short commute to Albuquerque. Enjoy the large backyard on your covered patio with a built-in surround system and open space behind for added privacy. The foyer with high ceilings makes for a grand entrance. Step into the stunning kitchen with custom cabinets and granite countertops that opens up to the living room. The bonus room downstairs could be an in-law suite with a private bath across the hall or a fourth bedroom. The decorative over-sized wooden staircase leads to the 2 additional bedrooms and master suite with balcony. Entertain family and friends at this beautiful home.

Learn More!

1016 SARATOGA Drive NE, Rio Rancho, NM 87144

$549,000

Enjoy Grand Views of Sandia Mountains from the Belvedere. Breathtaking setting for this European flair home perched on elevated lot landscaped, w/ grapevines, fruit trees, grass, fountain, a walk path around the property. Courtyard entry, Inviting foyer curved archways, opens to expansive great room w/ Soaring ceilings, Light filled gourmet kitchen, w/center island & gas cooktop, double ovens, ample cabinets and counters, 2 pantries, an breakfast nook that looks onto the outdoor east facing pavilion. Private Owner's suite, features European style WC, jetted bath, separate shower and dual vanities. walk in closet and a bonus/flex room & laundry rm. 3 more spacious bdrms. Zoned radiant heat, entire property is gated, 4 cg/each oversized. circular driveway, backyard access w/ room for RV!

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

 

If you’re a regular reader of our blogs, you’ve no doubt noticed a “Featured Hot Property” at the end of every article. These are some of the hottest properties in the Albuquerque real estate market. Here’s a roundup of some of these outstanding properties currently on the market for your review. If you have any questions about these fine properties, always feel free to call Sandi Pressley and her team.

Is a Bidet Right for Your Albuqerque Home?

by Sandi Pressley

It goes without saying that this year will be remembered for decades, especially when we see a roll of toilet paper. The stunning suddenness of the lack of TP on the shelves has had many people in Albuquerque and around the nation looking for alternatives. One of the options that stands out is a device that's actually very popular around the world. The bidet.

As such, it's time to ask: Should America switch to using bidets?

What is a bidet?

Most of us who have lived in the US and never traveled around the world have probably never seen a bidet, let alone used one. But they are quite common in Asia and Europe. Simply defined, a bidet is a fixture that shoots a stream of water to take care of post-toilet personal hygiene.

How much do they cost?

As you might have guessed, the cost of a bidet varies quite a bit. You can get a basic standalone model for around $200. You can pay up to $1000 if you want to go all out, with features such as an automatic lid that opens and closes with the touch of a button, an LED nightlight, stainless steel nozzles that look prettier than plastic ones, and a heated seat.

There are other options to installing a standalone bidet that are more affordable. You can add a bidet attachment to your existing toilet, which is also faster to install. It's basically a little hose inside the toilet that shoots water where you need it. And you can install it yourself, saving even more money.

You can also go with an integrated toilet option, such as Toto's compact Washlet G500, which comes with a built-in deodorizer, sensor-activated lid opener, and hands-free automatic flusher. Or you can buy a bidet seat, which will convert your current toilet. With electronic models, the touch of a button extends a small nozzle beneath you that sprays a comfortable stream of warm, aerated water. When you’re done, the nozzle automatically cleans itself before retracting back into its sleeve.

Why are they so popular around the world?

There's some very good reasons why bidets are so popular around the world.

  • You save money

    We use a staggering 36 billion rolls of toilet paper per year in America. That adds up to a lot of money being litterally flushed down the toilet. The average US houseld spends hundreds of dollars each year. That's enough to buy a fairly decent bidet. You will still need to use some TP with a bidet, but it's just to pat yourself dry. So you're still saving a great deal of paper.

  • Environmentally friendly

    Using less toilet paper can only be a good thing for the environement. 36.8 billion rolls of toilet paper is roughly 15 million trees. Can you imagine the impact if just 50% of the population in this country switched to using bidets?  

  • It’s more hygienic

    We usually don't think about the fact that TP is bleached, which means you're rubbing chlorine and chemicals on yourself. Water is understandably cleaner and does a better job of cleaning.

  • It’s better for your plumbing and septic system

    No clogging up your system.

  • It can reduce health problems

    Toilet paper can aggravate constipation or hemorrhoids. And people with limited mobility may struggle on the toilet. A bidet with a built-in blow dryer may seem like a luxury, but may actually be a necessity for some.

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!

5910 HANNETT Avenue NE, Albuquerque, NM 87110  $208,000

3 Bedrooms / 2 Bathrooms (1 full, 1 half) / 1885 Square Feet

Terrific location close to Uptown, shopping, dining, parks, UNM! 3BDR/2BA/1CG! Versatile floor plan with 3 living spaces; combined living & dining space, separate hobby/office/bdr, plus large family room/den with cozy wood fireplace. NEW ROOF (2017-1018) Updated furnace (2017) Newer water heater! Lots of light, skylights, ceiling fans, separate utility room! Kitchen features new gas stove, lots of cabinets, tile floor, breakfast bar and is open to the dining room. Outdoor living space with covered patio and walled for privacy and storage shed.

Contact the Sandi Pressley team for additional details! 

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

 

Is a Recession the Same as a Housing Crash?

by Sandi Pressley

Many people who plan to buy or sell a home in Albuquerque fear that as we head into a recession, that this will lead to a housing crash. But will that be the case with this recession? The thing to keep in mind is that a recession and a housing crash are two different things.

What is a recession?

The National Bureau of Economic Research defines a recession this way:

“A recession is a significant decline in economic activity spread across the economy, lasting more than a few months, normally visible in real GDP, real income, employment, industrial production, and wholesale-retail sales.”

The Coronavirus restrictions hit the American economy in March. According to Goldman Sachs, JP Morgan, and Morgan Stanley are all indicating that there will be a deep dive in the economy in the second quarter of this year. 

Does that mean we’re headed for another housing crash?

Home buyers and sellers in Albuquerque and around the nation fear that we're going to see a repeat of the housing crash that happened during the Great Recession of 2006-2008. Yet if we look at past recessions, we can see that most do not impact home values adversely.

Doug Brien, CEO of Mynd Property Management, explains:

“With the exception of two recessions, the Great Recession from 2007-2009, & the Gulf War recession from 1990-1991, no other recessions have impacted the U.S. housing market, according to Freddie Mac Home Price Index data collected from 1975 to 2018.”

What are the experts saying this time?

This is what three economic leaders are saying about the housing connection to this recession:

Robert Dietz, Chief Economist with NAHB

“The housing sector enters this recession underbuilt rather than overbuilt…That means as the economy rebounds – which it will at some stage – housing is set to help lead the way out.”

Ali Wolf, Chief Economist with Meyers Research

“Last time housing led the recession…This time it’s poised to bring us out. This is the Great Recession for leisure, hospitality, trade and transportation in that this recession will feel as bad as the Great Recession did to housing.”

John Burns, founder of John Burns Consulting, also had this to say, based on his firm's research:

“Historical analysis showed us that pandemics are usually V-shaped (sharp recessions that recover quickly enough to provide little damage to home prices).”

What does all this mean for home buyers and sellers in Albuquerque? It means that if you had plans to buy or sell a home in Albuquerque before the pandemic, there's no reason to derail your plans. These are uncertain times for sure. The Sandi Pressley Team is adapting to these changing times and are ready to help you realize your real estate goals. Contact us today to see how we can help you continue on your plans to buy or sell a home in Albuquerque today.

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!

9214 REDMONT Road NE, Albuquerque, NM 87109  $435,000

4 Bedrooms / 3 Bathrooms (2 full, 1 half) / 2695 Square Feet

This beautiful light filled Family Home in a fabulous NE Heights location has been meticulously maintained! Two living areas, cathedral ceilings, bright kitchen with large breakfast area, plenty of cabinets and a pantry. Kitchen is open to the family room. The master suite is spacious and truly a retreat. Enjoy the views from the balcony! Wonderful home and gorgeous landscaped yard for entertaining.

Contact the Sandi Pressley team for additional details! 

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

 

Moving Safely During the Coronavirus Pandemic

by Sandi Pressley

Moving into a new home in Albuquerque may have seemed like a daunting task before the COVID-19 pandemic. But now we have to take extra steps to make sure we stay safe and protect others as well when moving into a new home. 

If you can postpone your move, that would be ideal. But you may not have that luxury. And if you can move without a moving company, that's also ideal. But if you do need to hire movers, what steps can you take to move safely during this pandemic and protect everyone involved?

Before the Move

Contact your movers

Talk to your moving company about the safeguards they are implementing and best practices for moving day. Make sure you're both on the same page so that the move goes mor smoothly.

Buy all of your supplies in one go

You will want to limit how many times you go out to get supplies and how many stores you go to. Try your best to plan for what you need and get it all in one trip. You can use this packing calculator to get an estimate of what you’ll need based on the number of rooms and people in your house. Buy extra if in doubt.

Clean as you pack

Cleaning items before you pack has the dual effect of protecting yourself and others, as well as making less work when you unpack in your new home. Use disinfectant, and if you don't have any, make your own with a solution of one tablespoon bleach to one gallon water.

Finish packing at least 24 hours before the movers arrive

Coronovirus can last up to 24 hours on cardboard boxes. Even though your movers will be wearing gloves, it's an extra precaution to take to finish packing 24 hours ahead of the move and leave boxes untouched.

During the Move

Let your mover know right away if you or anyone in your family is experiencing coronavirus symptoms. 

Letting you movers know that someone is experiencing coronavirus symptoms won't necessarily cancel the move. But it will give your moving company the opportunity to put additional protocols into place to protect their workers. Also let them know if you or a family member are isolating due to exposure, as the same protocols will apply.

Provide hygiene products for your movers. 

Your moving company will most likely have all the hygien products the movers will need. But it won't hurt for you to have extra products on hand just in case, such as soap and paper towels by the sink, and hand sanitizer by the door. 

Don’t use free or recycled moving boxes. 

The virus can live on cardboard for as long as 24 hours, so picking up used boxes from stores or other sources outside your home is not a good idea. Your moving company may be able to provide new boxes, or you can purchase them yourself.

Postpone or cancel your move if you're high risk. 

If you are over 60 or have a pre-existing respiratory and cardiovascular condition, you should reconsider moving if at all possible. 

If traveling for your move, plan accordingly. 

Need to book flights or hotels for your move? Make refundable reservations and/or only work with companies that offer free cancellations. Ask about cancellation policies before you book so that you don’t end up wasting money later on.

Above all, use common sense when you move and stay safe.

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!

9214 REDMONT Road NE, Albuquerque, NM 87109  $435,000

4 Bedrooms / 3 Bathrooms (2 full, 1 half) / 2695 Square Feet

This beautiful light filled Family Home in a fabulous NE Heights location has been meticulously maintained! Two living areas, cathedral ceilings, bright kitchen with large breakfast area, plenty of cabinets and a pantry. Kitchen is open to the family room. The master suite is spacious and truly a retreat. Enjoy the views from the balcony! Wonderful home and gorgeous landscaped yard for entertaining.

Contact the Sandi Pressley team for additional details! 

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

 

Many home sellers are understandably concerned about a looming recession and how it will impact their ability to sell their home in Albuquerque. But just because there may be a recession doesn't mean your home won't sell. It just means there are things to consider to make sure your home is as competitive on the market as possible. Right now, we are in what's considered a buyer's market, which means you'll need to do mare to attract buyers.

Here are 3 main factors to look at:

Pricing

Strategically pricing your home for sale in Albuquerque means the difference between making and breaking the sale. In a buyer’s market, getting the price right is critical.

While market value is based on the sales prices of similar homes in your neighborhood, in a buyer’s market it pays to be aware of your competition. This means looking at homes for sale in your area online. If you find one that is priced comparable to yours, you’ve found your main competitor. If it’s in far better condition than yours, you have two choices, upgrade your home similarly, or adjust the price of your home. We can help you decide which of these two choices would be more advantageous.

Flexibility

Due to new rules regarding social distancing, you will need to be more flexible when it comes to showing your home. No matter what, you home should always be kept clean. Photos will need to be taken to show your home online, as more people will be using our website to look at your home. And in the event that your home will be shown in person, you need to be able to make it ready to view and have arrangements to be safely away from your home during a showing.

Concessions

Home buyers can become unreasonable when they know they are in the driver’s seat. They may ask for personal property to be included in the sale, such as furniture or play equipment. They may ask for credit for carpet or vinyl replacement even if there’s not a thing wrong with the existing floorcovering except that the buyer doesn’t like the color or pattern.

There is no rule about how to handle these situations, since just about everything in a home sale is negotiable when it comes to concessions. If it will pave the way to a smooth and quick closing, many homeowners are more than happy to accommodate the buyers’ requests, as long as they’re reasonable.

Unfortunately, you may need to sell your home when the market is stacked against you. Get your price right, be flexible and have plenty of patience and you’ll get through it.

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. Looking for the perfect home for sale in Albuquerque? Our easy-to-use home search tool can help you start the process. Contact us today to help you buy or sell your next home in Albuquerque.

HOT HOME LISTING OF THE WEEK!

10647 SUMMERCREST Drive NW, Albuquerque, NM 87114  $310,000

4 Bedrooms / 3 Bathrooms (2 full, 1 half) / 2820 Square Feet

VIEWS of the Sandia Mountains!! Beautiful 4BBDR/3BA/3CG home with 3 living spaces! Light, bright and open floor plan with living room, family room and large LOFT!! REFRIGERATED AIR! NEW ROOF! NEW CARPET! Updated flooring! Under stair storage! Kitchen features upgraded raised panel cabinetry with crown molding, granite countertops, LG appliances, tile flooring, recessed lighting, island, walk-in pantry & breakfast nook! Family room features cozy fireplace. Master suite features double door entry, walk-in closet with built-in shelving, dual sink vanity, sep shower and garden tub. Huge backyard with open patio and pergola covered outdoor space for entertaining! Terrific location close to Cottonwood Mall, shopping, restaurants, Rust Medical Center, schools and parks!

Contact the Sandi Pressley team for additional details! 

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

 

As our world is changing so rapidly with the spread of the COVID-19 virus, many people are wondering how long this will last and what impact it will have on the economy. As such, many who were thinking about buying a home in Albuquerque may think they should put that goal on hold. But should you suspend your home search now? The short answer is "no." Here's why.

Despite all the unsettling changes happening and the effect it's having on the economy right now, it will very likely be followed by economic expansion like we’ve seen play out in the U.S. economy many times over.

What are experts saying about an economic rebound? It starts with a forecast of U.S. Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

According to Investopedia:

“Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is the total monetary or market value of all the finished goods and services produced within a country’s borders in a specific time period. As a broad measure of overall domestic production, it functions as a comprehensive scorecard of the country’s economic health.”

Based on the GDP, three leading financial institutions state that the economy will see a projected sharp decline followed by a steep rebound in the second half of this year. A recent study from John Burns Consulting also notes that past pandemics have also created V-Shaped Economic Recoveries, and they had minimal impact on housing prices. This certainly gives hope and optimism for what is to come as the crisis passes.

Keeping this history in mind, many business owners are being optimistic about the economy making a strong return. A recent survey by PricewaterhouseCoopers shows that 66% of business owners feel that their companies will return to business as usual within a month of the passing of the pandemic. A solid 90% feel that within 1-3 months, things will be back to normal. 

From expert financial institutions to business leaders across the country, we can clearly see that the anticipation of a quick return to normal once the current crisis subsides is not too far away. 

With these things being considered, if you had been wanting to buy a home in Albuquerque, there's no reason to stop your progress on searching for a home.

One thing you can do to stay on top of your home buying process is to get pre-approved for a mortgage, which you can do from home. Getting pre-approved will hep you get a better idea of what you can afford so that you can move forward with confidence in buying a home in Albuquerque.

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. Looking for the perfect home for sale in Albuquerque? Our easy-to-use home search tool can help you start the process. Contact us today to help you buy or sell your next home in Albuquerque.

HOT HOME LISTING OF THE WEEK!

5910 HANNETT Avenue NE, Albuquerque, NM 87110  $208,000

3 Bedrooms / 2 Bathrooms (1 full, 1 half) / 1885 Square Feet

Terrific location close to Uptown, shopping, dining, parks, UNM! 3BDR/2BA/1CG! Versatile floor plan with 3 living spaces; combined living & dining space, separate hobby/office/bdr, plus large family room/den with cozy wood fireplace. NEW ROOF (2017-1018) Updated furnace (2017) Newer water heater! Lots of light, skylights, ceiling fans, separate utility room! Kitchen features new gas stove, lots of cabinets, tile floor, breakfast bar and is open to the dining room. Outdoor living space with covered patio and walled for privacy and storage shed.

Contact the Sandi Pressley team for additional details! 

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

 

Everything is changing in our lives, and the real estate market is no exception. They way buyers work with agents, lenders, and all of the people involved in buying a home in Albuquerque are changing to the virtual world. But through it all, one thing is not changing: the need for people to buy homes. Buying a home can drive the local economy here in Albuquerque.

Everyone is being affected differently by the effects of this virus on the economy. If you're in a position to buy a home, you are a major economic force in your neighborhood in Albuquerque. Even though we don't know how long it will take for this pandemic to pass, there are still things right now to keep your search for a new home in Albuquerque going.

Every year the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shares a report that notes the full economic impact of home sales. This report makes the following statement:

“The total economic impact of real estate related industries on the state economy, as well as the expenditures that result from a single home sale, including aspects like home construction costs, real estate brokerage, mortgage lending and title insurance.”

That means that when you buy a home in Albuquerque, you make an impact on the local economy. While it fulfills your need for a having a roof over your head, it also generates income for appraisers, loan officers, the title company, your real estate agent, and anyone else who contributes to the process of buying a home. These people also have teams that they work with that benefit from the purchase. And when you buy a new construction home, that impact almost doubles. According that same report, the economic impact of a home sale in New Mexico is $66,912. That's a lot of people in Albuquerque who benefit from just one home sale.

When you buy a home in Albuquerque, you become an economic driver. Even if you're not ready to buy a home right now, there are things you can do to keep your own process moving forward so you’re set when the time is right for you. Contact us today to keep your home buying process on track.

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. Looking for the perfect home for sale in Albuquerque? Our easy-to-use home search tool can help you start the process. Contact us today to help you buy or sell your next home in Albuquerque.

HOT HOME LISTING OF THE WEEK!

5910 HANNETT Avenue NE, Albuquerque, NM 87110  $208,000

3 Bedrooms / 2 Bathrooms (1 full, 1 half) / 1885 Square Feet

Terrific location close to Uptown, shopping, dining, parks, UNM! 3BDR/2BA/1CG! Versatile floor plan with 3 living spaces; combined living & dining space, separate hobby/office/bdr, plus large family room/den with cozy wood fireplace. NEW ROOF (2017-1018) Updated furnace (2017) Newer water heater! Lots of light, skylights, ceiling fans, separate utility room! Kitchen features new gas stove, lots of cabinets, tile floor, breakfast bar and is open to the dining room. Outdoor living space with covered patio and walled for privacy and storage shed.

Contact the Sandi Pressley team for additional details! 

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

 

Removing Old Wallpaper Will Help Sell Your Home Faster

by Sandi Pressley

Let's admit it: wallpaper is not the current trend in home design. So if you decide to sell your home in Albuquerque and there's wallpaper on the walls, you will need to get rid of it. Most buyers will find your wallpaper to dated and undesirable. Leaving wallpaper on the walls will certainly hinder your chances of selling your home.

But the good news is that removing old wallpaper is not as hard as you may think. Here is how you can remove wallpaper and make your home ready to sell.

Clear and Prepare the Room

Begin by removing items from the walls and moving furniture to the center of the room, or out of the room if possible. Cover floors and remaining furniture with drop cloths to protect them from getting wet.

Cut the Power

Shut off the electricity to the room and cover any outlets or light switches with painter’s tape.

Determine Your Wall and Wallpaper Type

Before you start peeling off your wallpaper, you need to figure out if your walls are plater or drywall. If drywall gets too wet, it can be damaged, so you have to be careful not to soak it too much.

You also need to figure out what type of wallpaper you have. Loosen a corner with aputty knife and try to peel it off. If it easily comes off, you just lucked out and have strippable wallpaper. If it peels off but leaves a paper backing, it's peelable wallpaper. If the walpaper doesn't budge, it's traditional and needs to be removed with water and chemical stripper.

Here's how to remove each type.

How to Remove Strippable Wallpaper

1. Gather your Materials

  • Putty Knife
  • Soap
  • Water
  • Rags

2. Loosen the Corner and Pull

Use your putty knife to lift the corner of the paper. Use your hands to peel the paper from the wall, pulling as close to the wall as you can to avoid tearing the paper. If the paper does rip, loosen another corner and start again. Repeat the process around the entire room.

3. Clean the Walls

Once all the paper has been removed, clean the walls with soap and water to remove any residue. Allow the walls to dry completely before painting.

How to Remove Traditional Wallpaper

1. Gather your Materials

  • Water
  • Wallpaper stripper
  • Spray bottle, garden sprayer, or paint roller
  • Putty knife
  • Scoring tool (if necessary)
  • Ladder
  • Soap
  • Water
  • Rags
  • Rubber gloves

2. Mix the Solution

Combine hot water and wallpaper stripper according to the manufacturer's instructions. Pour the solution into a spray bottle or garden sprayer.

3. Apply Solution

Use a spray bottle, garden sprayer, or paint roller to apply the solution to a small section of the wall, about 3’x3’. Let the solution sit and absorb for several minutes.

4. Scrape the Wallpaper Off

Use your putty knife to peel off the wallpaper, working your way up the wall. Be careful not to gouge the drywall as you scrape. Once the paper has been removed from the section, move on to the next area.

5. Score if Necessary

If the solution doesn’t absorb and the wallpaper is difficult to scrape, you may need to score the wall before applying the solution. Roll a scoring tool over the paper, making overlapping circles.

6. Clean the Walls

Wipe down the walls with soap and water to remove any residue. If there’s stubborn adhesive left behind, follow our guide on how to remove wallpaper glue.

How to Remove Peelable Wallpaper

1. Gather your Materials

  • Water
  • Wallpaper stripper
  • Spray bottle, garden sprayer or paint roller
  • Putty knife
  • Scoring tool (if necessary)
  • Ladder
  • Soap
  • Water
  • Rags
  • Rubber gloves

2. Remove the Top Layer

Begin by peeling off the top layer of the wallpaper. Loosen the corner with a putty knife and pull the paper off the paper backing.

3. Remove the Backing

To remove the paper layer left behind, you’ll use the technique described above for removing traditional wallpaper.

How to Remove Wallpaper When Nothing Else Works: Grab a Steamer

If your wallpaper refuses to budge no matter how much you spray and scrape, you may need to use an electric steamer, which can be rented from a home improvement store.

1. Gather your Materials

  • Electric steamer
  • Putty knife
  • Safety goggles
  • Rubber gloves
  • Scoring tool (if necessary)
  • Soap
  • Water
  • Rags

2. Set Up the Steamer

Follow the manufacturer’s directions to prepare the steamer. You’ll add water to the steamer and let it heat up before beginning. Be sure to wear protective gloves and long sleeves so you don’t get burned by the steam or drips of hot water.

3. Steam the Wallpaper

Hold the steamer to the wallpaper to loosen the adhesive. If you have drywall, be careful not to oversteam. Scrape the wallpaper off with a putty knife. If the steam doesn’t penetrate the wallpaper, use a scoring tool to make small holes in the paper. Continue the process of steaming and scraping until all the wallpaper is removed.

4. Clean the Walls

Clean off any residue with soap and water. Allow the walls to dry completely.

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. Looking for the perfect home for sale in Albuquerque? Our easy-to-use home search tool can help you start the process. Contact us today to help you buy or sell your next home in Albuquerque.

HOT HOME LISTING OF THE WEEK!

1690 Camino Corona SW, Los Lunas, NM 87031  $250,000

3 Bedrooms / 2 Bathrooms (2 full, 0 half) / 1817 Square Feet

Beautifully maintained home in Rancho Valencia. This 3 bedroom and 2 full bath floorplan boasts an open concept with tile throughout common areas, great for entertaining! Master bedroom is separated for added privacy with nice master suite and walk in closet. Enjoy sunrise and mountain views on this premium lot from your covered patio, yard fully xeriscaped with bubble drip system for ultimate ease. Close access to shopping and freeway with easy commute to Albuquerque. Come see this home today!

Contact the Sandi Pressley team for additional details! 

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team

 

Displaying blog entries 211-220 of 232

Syndication

Categories

Archives

Contact Information

Photo of The Sandi Pressley Team Real Estate
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